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EV3284_TravelTalk_CovWrap.indd 2-3 20/04/2017 3:21 pm NEW 2018 EUROPE RIVER CRUISING Europe DISCOVER THE WORLD BROCHURE – OUT NOW! WITH EVERGREEN

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EV3284_TravelTalk_CovWrap.indd 4-5 20/04/2017 3:21 pm WWW.TRAVELTALKMAG.COM.AU - ISSUE MAY 2017 TT628

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ACROSS DOWN 4 Who is the PM of Canada? 1 Niagara Falls are located in which 6  Does Air Canada offer Premium province? Economy Class on its flights to 2 The Major League Baseball team based Vancouver from Sydney and Brisbane? in Toronto is know as the ...... 7  Fill in the missing word. The Royal 3 From which city in NSW does Air Canadian ...... Police? Canada offer daily non-stop service 13 Air Canada has been in service for how to Vancouver and direct service to many years? Toronto? 14 The headquarters of Air Canada are 5 What Boeing aircraft does Air Canada located in which Canadian city? operate from Brisbane to Vancouver? 16 The national sports of Canada are ice 8 What is the capital city of Canada? hockey and ...... 9 The official languages of Canada are 17  Which multi award-wining airport is English and ...... Air Canada’s PACIFIC hub? 10 The Major League Soccer team based 18 From which city in Queensland does in Vancouver is known as the ...... Air Canada offer daily non-stop flights 11 What leaf appears on the Canadian to Vancouver? flag? 20 Celebrated Canadian Chef David 12 What is the name of Air Canada’s top ...... designs signature dishes which tier frequent flyer program? are exclusively featured on Air Canada 15 The Maple Leafs are an National flights in International Business Class Hockey League team based in which departing from Canada. Canadian city? 19 Air Canada’s Australian services connect to which airport in New York from Vancouver?

TRAVELTALK 628 MAY 2017 | 5 THE WORLD’S LEADING RIVER CRUISE LINE

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FREE INFO SESSIONS NEW 2018 RIVER BROCHURE OUT: Hear about our new ocean itineraries, extensive Viking Cruises has launched its Viking has a number of special river cruise itineraries, and award-winning fleet 2018 river brochure which features offers available on bookings made from the team of Viking Cruises experts who destinations across Central Europe, by 30 June 2017. will be on hand to answer questions. France, Portugal, Russia, China and South East Asia. Book a 2018 Europe river cruise of 13 days or more and save $2,000 Bring along your clients and join us over light New for 2018, the 11-day Kiev to per couple and fly free to Europe. refreshments during the day, or a glass of the Black Sea itinerary takes Or choose to fly Business Class wine or beer in the evening. A special cruise guests on a journey to some of from $4,995 per person. offer will also be available on the day. Ukraine’s most historic cities, CANBERRA – Tuesday 23 May including Kiev, Zaporozhye, Kherson and Odessa ADELAIDE – Tuesday 30 May Taking guests to one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the PERTH – Thursday 1 June 12-day cruise/tour Pharaohs and NEWCASTLE – Wednesday 7 June Pyramids explores Luxor, the Valleys of the Kings and Queens, the All sessions are free but seats are Temple of Horus in Edfu and the limited so register now. iconic Nile river. Visit vikingcruises.com.au Viking has also recently welcomed or call 138 747 two new additions, Viking Hild and Viking Herja, to its fleet of river Longships.

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Ad_Travel_Talk_20170419_(R18)_A4.indd 1 21/4/17 09:54 EDITORIAL Jon Underwood Managing Editor Email: [email protected]

Gaya Avery Online Editor Email: [email protected]

Rebecca Lawson THE WORLD’S LEADING Sub Editor

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS Trevor Jones, Debbie Sproule, Mark Harada, Steven Fitzjohn

RIVER CRUISE LINE CONTENTS 40 ART DIRECTOR Sarah-kate Shirley Email: [email protected] Features Departments

ADVERTISING Sydney: Jenny Rowland 12 SPECIAL REPORT 8 AGENTtalk Much has been written and said recently Mobile: 0414 746 146 Fax: (02) 9969 3390 about the future of the high street travel 22 INDUSTRYtalk Email: [email protected] agency. Here, Traveltalk Managing Editor JON UNDERWOOD asks industry experts for their 26 BOOK it Now SAVE Christine Gould thoughts; their opinions might surprise you. $ FLIGHTS BUSINESS CLASS Mobile: 0407 900 143 30 NEWStalk , FROM Email: [email protected] 2000 $ PER COUPLE ON US 4,995 PP 40 WEDDINGS 32 PROPERTYtalk Perth: Debbie Sproule Thailand is famous for its natural beauty, Tel: (08) 9300 0219 entertainment and hospitality, but it’s also 36 SKYtalk Fax: (08) 9300 0237 a great place to get hitched. We speak Mobile: 0403 833 295 exclusively to an Aussie bride who has just 60 IRELAND Email: [email protected] enjoyed the perfect wedding in the Land YOU'RE INVITED of Smiles. DIRECTORS AND ASSOCIATE PUBLISHERS Jenny Rowland (Sydney) FREE INFO SESSIONS Debbie Sproule (Perth) 44 HAWAII NEW 2018 RIVER BROCHURE OUT: Perth Office: Australians have a love affair with Hawaii Hear about our new ocean itineraries, extensive PO Box 1105 Hillarys WA 6923 which shows no signs of abating. In this Viking Cruises has launched its Viking has a number of special river cruise itineraries, and award-winning fleet special 10-page report, we look at the latest 2018 river brochure which features offers available on bookings made DISTRIBUTION AND SUBSCRIPTIONS from the team of Viking Cruises experts who luxury offerings, hotel news, plus a preview destinations across Central Europe, by 30 June 2017. will be on hand to answer questions. Tel: (08) 9300 0219 France, Portugal, Russia, China and Email: [email protected] of the Hawaii Food & Wine Festival. Book a 2018 Europe river cruise of South East Asia. Bring along your clients and join us over light Annual subscription of 11 issues $72.60 13 days or more and save $2,000 (within Australia) New for 2018, the 11-day Kiev to per couple and fly free to Europe. refreshments during the day, or a glass of Annual Subscription of 11 issues $175.40 54 USA/CANADA the Black Sea itinerary takes Or choose to fly Business Class wine or beer in the evening. A special cruise (international) We talk to American Airlines about their guests on a journey to some of from $4,995 per person. offer will also be available on the day. Rates include GST, postage & handling exciting plans to bring a new aircraft and new Ukraine’s most historic cities, CANBERRA – Tuesday 23 May class of service to Australia. Plus, how agents including Kiev, Zaporozhye, 44 PUBLISHED BY can win a trip to California with Excite Holidays Kherson and Odessa ADELAIDE – Tuesday 30 May Pointer Publishing Pty Ltd and special deals on Canada with APT. Taking guests to one of the Seven ABN 92 150 111 701 Wonders of the Ancient World, the PERTH – Thursday 1 June PO Box 1105 Hillarys WA 6923 ON THE COVER Tel: (08) 9300 0219 62 CRUISETALK 12-day cruise/tour Pharaohs and NEWCASTLE – Wednesday 7 June Pyramids explores Luxor, the Valleys Website: www.traveltalkmag.com.au Now is the time to be booking that cruise of the Kings and Queens, the All sessions are free but seats are holiday to warmer climes and we’ve got all Temple of Horus in Edfu and the limited so register now. the latest offers and destinations covered, iconic Nile river. whether you’re looking for river cruising or an Visit vikingcruises.com.au ocean voyage. Viking has also recently welcomed or call 138 747 two new additions, Viking Hild and Viking Herja, to its fleet of Cab Audited Distribution 6,612 river Longships. March 2016 - Sept 2016

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While every care and precaution has been taken in the preparation of Traveltalk, no liability can be accepted for errors or omissions herein. Information is published in good faith to stimulate independent 138 747 VIKINGCRUISES.COM.AU OR SEE YOUR LOCAL TRAVEL AGENT investigation by the reader. Views and opinions expressed in Traveltalk do not necessarily reflect those of the management. Conditions apply: For full terms and conditions visit vikingrivercruises.com.au All articles are fully protected by copyright. To obtain written permission to reproduce any material please contact the managing editor on [email protected] 62 Moraine Lake, Alberta, Canada TRAVELTALK 628 MAY 2017 | 7

Ad_Travel_Talk_20170419_(R18)_A4.indd 1 21/4/17 09:54 AGENTtalk: Famil review

LIVING THE LUX LIFE

Here, CHERYL SCHELL, Senior Travel Consultant/Director at helloworld Joondalup in Western Australia, reviews a recent four-day ‘Luxury Mauritian Experience’, courtesy of Air Mauritius.

FLYING AIR Mauritius in economy class was to be imprisoned – a very sad story, but a sea urchin, which he had just plucked from very comfortable with excellent service (I did fitting memorial at the base of the mountain a nearby reef. Combined with lemon and enjoy the spare seat beside me!) and good is worth a visit. Tabasco sauce, this certainly had a unique food. After a wonderful welcome, we were and very palatable flavour. Our group of eight eventually arrived escorted to our own prestige rooms, which On Friday morning we headed off to on the south west coast of Mauritius at the besides a huge, comfortable bed, included the Casela World of Adventures, which is a luxurious LUX* Le Morne resort, located an equally large bathroom (with bath, must-see attraction for everyone visiting the at the base of the beautiful Le Morne indoor shower and unique outdoor shower) island. It is home to 1,500 exotic birds and mountain. It became infamous for the and very nice outdoor area overlooking the numerous animals from Africa. If you are slaves who had escaped from the sugar ocean. looking for adventure you can also interact plantations and who took refuge hiding on I have to say the dining at LUX* Le Morne with the wildlife – the highlight being a walk the mountain, but were not aware that the is second to none, with a great variety of with the BIG CATS! – or try zip lining, bungee British Government had recently abolished yummy food, very interesting alcoholic jumping, the Tubby Slide and much more. slavery. When soldiers began to climb the and wine beverages, and coffee to die for. (Hint: don’t be tempted to buy the very cute mountain to tell them they were free, they They provide their own coffee grains and raffia spotted giraffes – taken from me at jumped to their death, believing they were have a very enjoyable and different menu Perth Airport). of coffees. LUX* Le Morne has many water We were wined and sport activities, including snorkelling dined by Anatolie, the hotel and swimming with dolphins. Some manager, for lunch and dinner of us booked in for both of these but on the Thursday and Friday, unfortunately, although the weather was with a different and unique wonderful for our whole stay in Mauritius, experience on each occasion, the ocean proved a little rough to venture either overlooking the ocean at out in the short time available to us. lunch or watching the sunset However, the pool areas were beautiful in the evenings. and we were able to snatch a couple of short A highlight for us was being and enjoyable sessions poolside as a group. invited to enjoy the taste of The ocean is only a few metres away and is fresh sea urchin. Vic Chuttur, warm and pristine. I was also very impressed Guest Experiences Manager to discover that the LUX properties have a at LUX* Le Morne, invited our full time expert in attendance to give you all group to sip champagne at the the help and advice on anything digital. water’s edge and to taste the We were sad to depart LUX* Le Morne on 8 | WWW.TRAVELTALKMAG.COM.AU AGENTtalk

Those on the famil included: Kerry Coupar, Air Mauritius; Julie Wheelhouse, helloworld; Cheryl Schell, helloworld Joondalup; Karen Way, helloworld Alexander Heights; Lee Moore, helloworld Melville; Santo Scidone, helloworld Armadale; Debra and Sara Nazzari, Belmont Shopping Centre the Saturday morning, but continued up with many well priced, wonderful resorts For the record, we did have a very the east coast to have lunch at LUX* Grand and plenty of hotel and island activities. I productive marketing meeting for a couple of Gaube on the north western coast, followed suggest paying for an all inclusive package, hours, in a very suitable board room provided by a hotel inspection. We then moved on to or half board at the very least, as individual for us by the hotel, on the Thursday morning! LUX* Belle Mare on the west coast, where, pricing for food and beverage can be quite * Have you been on a memorable famil following a hotel inspection, we enjoyed a expensive. A stay of seven- to 14-days would recently and would like to write about it? light dinner before proceeding to the airport be my suggestion. Are you a budding travel photographer? for our return flight to Perth. Thanks to helloworld, Air Mauritius and the We’d love to hear from you. Please send I can highly recommend all of the LUX great company of my travel colleagues for your travel stories or amazing travel properties – my only regret is that our stay a very enjoyable and fact finding few days pictures to [email protected] was too short! Mauritius is a beautiful island away.

TRAVELTALK 628 MAY 2017 | 9 AGENTtalk HERE, THERE AND EVERYWHERE Somehow tearing themselves away from their computer screens, agents have again been touring the world on a series of fabulous famils. Skiing in British Columbia, diving on the Great Barrier Reef – it’s a hard life for some. Skiing famil is snow joke A GROUP of top selling agents were and properties. Other on-snow taken on the ski road trip of a lifetime activities included tubing, ice-skating, recently, covering four resorts across snowshoeing, zip lining, snowmobiling British Columbia in seven days. and plenty of après ski. With the support of Destination The overall experience provided British Columbia and Destination agents with the knowledge to identify Canada, the Sno’n’Ski famil departed the uniqueness between Whistler, Sun Brisbane and Sydney direct to Peaks, SilverStar and Big White and Vancouver on Air Canada and visited Big confidently sell each destination on its White, SilverStar, Sun Peaks and Whistler. merits to their clients. Skiers and snowboarders of all “A famil itinerary this ambitious had abilities participated in lessons at each never before been attempted by any ski of the resorts, sharpening their skills wholesaler,” said Daniel Walker, Director and getting to know the mountains & General Manager, Sno’n’Ski Holidays. FUN AND FISH IN FIJI A GROUP of Travel Counsellors from all over Australia recently experienced the multifaceted wonders of Fiji. The Matai Mega Famil was organised by Tourism Fiji and included a range of hotel, cruise and tour partners. Split into several different groups, the itineraries covered diverse facets of Fiji including adventure, cruising and family travel. While the itineraries varied, each had many things in common – namely Fiji’s hospitality, rich cultural traditions, fresh seafood and luxury accommodation. “From seeing the famed Blue Lagoon with my own eyes to enjoying cocktails and canapes in beach bars and visiting locals living on small islands, this cruise was incredible,” said Vivienne Smith from New South Wales, who took part in the Blue Lagoon Cruises famil to the Yasawa Islands area. Turtle-y in love with TNQ

Snorkelling on an Ocean Safari tour at Cape Tribulation

A TRAVEL agent who sells Tropical nine for 11 nights in the region. North Queensland (TNQ) holidays “The highlight was our trip with using Airnorth’s Toowoomba to Cairns Ocean Safari out to the reef from Cape flights secured 99 visitor nights for the Tribulation. Not only did we get to destination just days after experiencing it see turtles, but we actually snorkelled for herself. alongside them. The water was crystal Sam Newmarch from helloworld was clear and just so calm with not a ripple in TWO GROUPS of agents from Infinity and among a group of 14 agents on a famil sight,” Sam said. iTravel won incentive trips onboard Explorer trip organised by Tourism Tropical North The agents explored TNQ with three of the Seas recently. The ‘Seminar at Sea’ Queensland (TTNQ) and Airnorth to mark different itineraries from Mission Beach groups were treated to three nights onboard the first anniversary of the direct service to Cooktown, including time spent in the Explorer during her sampler voyage in March. between the two cities. Her enthusiasm World Heritage Wet Tropics Rainforest for TNQ enabled her to book a family of and on the Great Barrier Reef. 10 | WWW.TRAVELTALKMAG.COM.AU

AGENTtalk: Special Report THE BRICKS COME OUT TO BAT There’s been a lot of publicity over the future of ‘bricks- and-mortar’ travel agencies, with some claiming the high street store is on the decline. Traveltalk Managing Editor JON UNDERWOOD spoke to several industry heavyweights to try and separate fact from fiction.

I WAS sitting on a train the other day, So does this have the executives at Flight 10 per cent during the first half. People are discussing the state of the travel industry Centre reaching for the smelling salts and hugely important to customers who are with a respected industry figure. brushing up their resumes? Apparently not. booking travel, particularly international. “ “It’s like a pendulum,” my companion “Webjet is a very small business,” said This was a point echoed by Jayson mused. “At the moment, online is popular Graham ‘Skroo’ Turner, boss of Flight Centre, Westbury, who, as Chief Executive of the because it’s trendy and everyone else is when questioned by Traveltalk. He pointed Australian Federation of Travel Agents, has doing it. But it will eventually swing back out that, according to its own accounts, something of a vested interest in keeping to the more traditional travel channels that Webjet’s established OTA business increased agencies on our high streets. have tried and tested methods and results.” TTV (Total Transaction Value) by $55million “The numbers are an inconvenient truth His comments seem somewhat prophetic in Australia and New Zealand during the first for those that would have you believe that and apposite now, given the debate that’s half. everyone books online,” he told me. been raging recently, with some industry “Our TTV in Australia and New Zealand “The argy-bargy among travel agents figures questioning whether travel agents increased by five times this amount over the over the channel upon which they use to have a future on the high street. same period, by about $280million. connect with consumers is yesterday’s news. John Guscic, Managing Director of Webjet, “We’re more than just a bricks and mortar The real challenge for the travel distribution commented in The Australian Financial agency and have outlined plans to grow networks going forward is competing Review that the role of the traditional travel across multiple channels. This includes with suppliers trying to sell their products agent is “arguably in decline”. That remark online, which we are successfully doing, directly. came hot on the heels of Booking.com being and home-based, which we think has great “All travel agents need to have is an offer revealed as ‘Australia’s most popular travel potential in Australia. that represents what the customer wants agency’ in a Roy Morgan Research Holiday “As for the relevance of agents, our and if the customer wants to connect with Tracker survey. international ticket numbers increased by you online then you should have an online

BARRY MAYO, Chairman of TravelManagers, still extremely important in a growing commented that his company has the technological world. Internet to thank for its existence. “With more than 510 personal travel “It was the internet, the great enabler managers throughout the country of modern connectivity that created the TravelManagers, the only truly national opportunity for Online Travel Agents to home-based host agency, attributes its key evolve and ironically, it was also the Internet to success being the personal and consistent and related technology enhancements that service delivery and the enthusiasm for also created the opening for TravelManagers the tailoring of travel arrangements to and the personal travel manager concept to individual client’s tastes and demands. be born. “Service is the key in this internet age “Travel is one sector that is very much with the personal travel manager genuinely moving forward. TravelManagers choose looking out for what is in their clients’ best to embrace rather than fight the digital interests. Providing individual tailor-made revolution and by using the Internet as an experiences and having your own personal effective business tool the company has travel manager is what sets a personal travel grown and prospered exponentially.” manager apart from many traditional travel Mayo is confident personal service is agents and sole online providers.”

12 | WWW.TRAVELTALKMAG.COM.AU AGENTtalk: Special Report offer. But if the customer wants to connect but at the end of the day I think people will with you via bricks and mortar, you should still want to talk to an actual person.” have that capability too.” Hoffmann revealed that his company Westbury added that he doesn’t believe has had to fix travel arrangements made that OTA’s are cannibalising the traditional by customers who’ve booked online and travel agent market, rather the direct supply. then encountered a problem. Clients have He also believes the high street agency is also returned to his outlets after one bad safe for at least the next five years, if not experience with a trip booked online. longer. “People are getting burnt. With so much “Australia is different to many other variety and choice in terms of airlines, cruise countries in that we have a very significant lines, et cetera, people are getting confused retail footprint. And because of its size when they are doing their research. I say this it is going to take a long time for that to my staff all the time – it’s all about the retail footprint to not continue to have an right product for the right client.” attractive offer to consumers. Even after all these years in travel, “So far the market shift to online is not Hoffmann still believes passionately in going at a pace that would suggest for a what he’s doing and what his high street moment that the end of the high street agencies offer that customers can’t get travel agent as we know it is here.” online. Travellers who book with Hoffmann With more than 25 years in the industry, Travel have access to a 24/7 support service, some 200 staff and 10 outlets, Phil Hoffmann experienced staff that have probably been ROY MERRICKS, Co-Managing Director has seen most things in travel. to the destination and often discount fares of Mobile Travel Agents, used the “I’m an optimist and I’m confident we that are only available to travel staff. word “furphy” when reacting to have a future, providing we can offer terrific “It all comes back to customer service and suggestions travel agents’ and travel service and expert knowledge. Most bricks building relationships with clients,” he says. advisors’ positions were being eroded and mortar agencies know they’ve got So while the pendulum may be swinging, at the expense of OTAs. to do that because they are going to be it seems unlikely that old father time will He also queried whether OTAs such threatened by others,” he told me. catch up with the high street agencies just as Webjet and similar organisations “Sure there will be markets that go online yet. should even be considered as de facto travel agents or travel advisers. “Any OTA promoting itself as a travel agent or travel advisor could be construed as potentially misleading,” Mr Merricks said. “OTAs don’t deliver the products or complete services provided by a credentialed national agency, such as MTA, with true connections and support for clients on the ground globally.” Mr Merricks said that, while originally OTAs had specialised in either flights or hotel reservations, over the years they have generally added to that base to include other land content designed to broaden their appeal. “The misnomer is they are effectively promoting themselves as an online version of a traditional travel agent – without a shop – and therefore suggesting they are more readily available. Nothing is further from the truth and it is, in my opinion, potentially misleading when OTAs promote themselves as a travel agent or travel advisor in the sense of the words understood by consumers. “At the end of the day the travel distribution system, travel agents and travel advisors are alive and growing well. OTAs should perhaps be more aptly described as Online Travel Algorithms – let’s see them for what they really are.”

TRAVELTALK 628 MAY 2017 | 13 AGENTtalk: Agency of the Month

From left to right: Tracey Fidone, Athena Salalidis, Kaz McManus, Casey Anderson, Heather Testro, Trevor Jones. (Not pictured. Sonia Jones, Chris Hocking, Poul Nielsen, Christine Baulch.) From left to right (canines): Zara, Cougar, Oden, Loki and Bailey HIGH JINKS in the HIGH COUNTRY Here, TREVOR JONES from Hawthorn Travel & Cruise in Victoria introduces us to his dedicated team.

NUMBER OF STAFF: 10 - if they all turn up! more than an hour’s drive away. her nose on each brochure one by one as she moved along. She never removed the HOW LONG IN PRESENT LOCATION: WHO IS THE OFFICE JOKER: Kaz, an Irish brochures but just moved slowly along the 33 years. ex-Ryanair flight attendant. Her stories rack. are unbelievable, whether it is finding her MAIN TYPE OF CLIENTELE: Well-educated Her behaviour caught everyone’s washing machine on the front lawn one baby boomers. attention but nobody moved to assist. Sunday morning after inviting the whole Being the owner of the business I had to MOST POPULAR HOLIDAY SOLD: pub to her first floor apartment for a party, show leadership and approached the lady Designer holidays. It’s all about building an or a passenger in Marrakech who brought who I now noticed had spectacles, whose itinerary around wants and needs. a real two-metre Christmas tree onboard lenses looked like the bottom of two Coca- HOTTEST DESTINATION RIGHT NOW: While as hand luggage. What really happened is Cola bottles. better than Airport and Border Security put Europe continues to be the most popular, “May I help you?” together. the ‘Stans’ have had unprecedented “I’m looking for a Christmas card for my popularity. Why? Must be on the bucket list. FUNNIEST THING THAT’S EVER HAPPENED grandson.” LONGEST SERVING MEMBER OF STAFF: IN THE OFFICE: ‘Twas the night before The staff at this point became even more Other than me, Tracey, who has been with Christmas and all through the house... unhelpful by either spluttering or running me for more than 25 years. I said just after Actually it was a week before Christmas out to the back of the office holding a hand she started: “You will never last living more and a little old lady entered the office and over their mouths in some poor attempt than an hour’s drive away.” The lengths made a bee line straight to the colourful at self-control. While it was not the answer people go to prove me wrong. She still lives brochures on the racks. She actually put I had expected, I did manage to contain 14 | WWW.TRAVELTALKMAG.COM.AU AGENTtalk: Agency of the Month myself on the outside, but was bursting on on the top of the tables doing ‘cheers’ in discount fares out of Australia. the inside. I took the lady by the arm and numerous languages. When the same • We’ve gone from a host of European escorted her to the card shop which she idea was tried under the table things carriers that once served Australia to just had missed by two shops. started getting messy. At this point, being one. KLM, JAT, Olympic, Alitalia, Lauda and a responsible driver, I went to bed. Even BEST CHRISTMAS PARTY EVER: While it Lufthansa have all gone and now it’s just in my sleep I could hear the laughter and wasn’t in December, I decided upon some British Airways, Sydney to London. yelling echo down the valley. The stories staff bonding in the quiet of January from this weekend remain secret to protect • Aerograms were replaced by the telex, in the late 80’s. A rather synonymous the guilty. which was replaced by the telefax, which entrepreneur of Falls Creek, Baldy Blackwell, The morning revealed a catastrophe of was replaced by the www. The joy of allowed us access to his upmarket lodge sorts and some very dusty staff. The real receiving confirmation of a hotel in for the weekend. And very nice it was too. I shock was that the bar bill cost what felt Athens par avion cannot be adequately had rented a couple of Tarago’s so the staff like a deposit for a house. Lesson learnt expressed. wouldn’t have to drive. with this crew? Stay at home! • Lower airfares have changed the Our activities included driving on the demographics of the traveller, opening highest road in Australia, riding horses, FAVOURITE TV SHOW IN THE OFFICE: opportunities of travel to more people. hiking and picnicking in the High Country I would love to say it was David And so the evolution of travel continues. while thinking of The Man from Snowy River. Attenborough but I fear it would be some I remember it was 42°C in Melbourne and kitchen show where bitchy competitors are 24°C at Falls Creek, but still just a wonderful more important than the food. day. However, all that fresh air and exercise MAIN WATER COOLER TOPICS NAME OF AGENCY: needed to be celebrated. IN THE OFFICE: What Kaz did on the Hawthorn Travel, Baldy greeted us at the end of the day weekend. 60 Burwood Rd, Hawthorn, and poured us some beverages. Just before VIC 3122. BIGGEST CHANGES YOU’VE SEEN leaving he told us to help ourselves to the Tel: 03 9819 2322 IN THE TRAVEL INDUSTRY: Having started bar and just mark down in the honesty hawthorntravel.com.au book what we consumed. Being in a relaxed at Ansett Airlines in 1973, I think the mood, I missed hearing who suggested we following changed the industry: * Would you like to be our Agency of the start at one end of the line of spirits and • The Boeing 747 first flew in 1969 and finish at the other. while everything was so good in this Month? Please drop us a line at The result? It was not long before my new era of aviation, it was to lead to an [email protected] usually well-behaved staff were standing over capacity of seats and the advent of

SHE BOOKED WITH AN ATAS ACCREDITED TRAVEL AGENT

Quality, trustworthy, experienced, industry accredited travel agents can be found at ATAS.com.au

TRAVELTALK 628 MAY 2017 | 15 AGENTtalk CAMPAIGN LAUNCH HERALDS BEST AGENCY AWARD THE AUSTRALIAN Federation of Travel Agents (AFTA) has launched the 2017 ‘People’s Choice ATAS Retail Travel Agency of the Year’ campaign. Now in its second year, the campaign is aimed directly at promoting bricks and mortar suburban ATAS travel agencies. Accredited businesses wanting to reach and engage with their travel clients in a new and inspiring way are encouraged to participate. The objectives of the ‘People’s Choice’ initiative are twofold. Firstly, the aim is to raise the awareness of ATAS accredited agents by delivering a compelling campaign and prize which encourages maximum consumer participation and simultaneously Last year’s People’s Choice winners were Queanbeyan City Travel and Cruise in NSW spreads the reach of the ATAS brand. Secondly, by linking the campaign to that a great travel agency is the first step excellence in these areas deserves to be the ATAS ‘Retail Travel Agency of the Year’ toward a great travel experience,” said recognised.” award, AFTA can celebrate and recognise Debra Fox, Executive General Manager Voting closes on June 30 and the winner an agency that does an exceptional job at Global Marketing and Sales at APT, who will be announced at the National Travel embracing and proactively promoting the are sponsoring the award. “Their passion, Industry Awards on July 22. ATAS brand. dedication and willingness to go the extra ■ afta.com.au “We think that consumers will agree mile for their clients drives the industry, and ■ atas.com.au Celebrating four decades of choice

TRAVELLERS CHOICE has celebrated its “In the early days, when we were 40th anniversary with a stylish party for very small, some of the companies here the industry partners that have helped it tonight took a punt on us,” Hunter told the grow into an award-winning network for gathering. independent Aussie agents. “Across the decades, as we grew, others Christian Hunter, Managing Director, came on board. And throughout our 40 told more than 75 guests at the Museum years we have developed long-standing of Contemporary Art in Sydney that the and highly-valued relationships with all of company had come a long way since being the businesses represented here tonight.” formed by a handful of agencies in 1977. Travellers Choice now operates as an He said the group’s unique culture, its unlisted public company owned entirely support services and its focus on returning by 140 members, who are distributed all profits to its member shareholders across the country. Last year the company were essential to its success, but just as delivered its 39th consecutive pre-tax vital were the “true partnerships” forged profit, with 95 per cent of funds returned over four decades with its broad stable of to its member shareholders. Reason to celebrate: Christian Hunter, MD of Travellers Choice, preferred partners. ■ travellerschoice.com.au and Robyn Mitchell, GM Marketing

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16 | WWW.TRAVELTALKMAG.COM.AU I was with a major retail travel agency for 10 years and finally made the decision to go out on my own. This huge change in my career was made simple with TravelManagers’ training and ongoing business support. Switching GDS was easy and now I run my own successful travel business and haven’t looked back. Denise Dean Personal Travel Manager

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170167_TM_TravelTalk_260x185mm_3.0.indd 1 21/4/17 4:08 pm AGENTtalk PLENTY OF SURPRISES AND PRIZES AT VISIT USA EVENTS MORE THAN 130 agents have attended two the Howard Johnson Hotel, Anaheim, a three- USA Travel Expos hosted by Visit USA in day Disneyland Resort Park Hopper ticket, an Adelaide and Perth. Anaheim ‘Dine For Less’ card for four people, a The attendees got to hear the latest three-night stay at the Handlery Hotel in San news from 15 exhibitors and presentations Francisco or San Diego, and two San Francisco covering destinations, accommodation and City Passes. attractions across America. Visit USA was In Perth, Vishesh Singh from Flight Centre more targeted with its guest acceptances Carousel won a Las Vegas gift bag, Teresa ensuring quality USA selling agents were Mason from Orbit World Travel won a three- able to learn from the experts and hear about night stay at any Choice Hotel in the USA, upcoming trends and news. Carrol Dargie from Travel Key won a $200 In Adelaide, the major prize winner was Ken Expedia travel credit and Eve Kelly from Ortzen-Bario from Holidays of the World, who Flight Centre Warwick won a three-night stay won two return airfares to Los Angeles with at Handlery Hotel San Francisco and a San A hero and a shark Fiji Airways, three nights’ accommodation at Francisco City Pass. share the stage A VICTORIA Cross recipient and a ‘Shark’ are the keynote speakers at the TravelManagers national conference in Darwin in September. Ben Roberts-Smith (above) received the medal for his actions during a helicopter assault into Tizak in June 2010. He will be joined on the podium by Naomi Simson (below) from the hugely popular Shark Tank TV series on Channel Ten. “TravelManagers prides itself on previously having innovative and motivational speakers at our national conferences, who inspire our PTMs, The Visit USA event in Adelaide providing relevant content and thought provoking open forum discussions,” said Michael Gazal, TM Executive General Manager. “This year we really have lifted the First look at a Beaut movie bar ever further. Naomi and Ben’s DISNEY PARKS & Resorts treated five agents kick-off an array of year-long celebrations incredible stories of success and to a special advance screening of the highly to commemorate the 25th anniversary of tenacity to succeed are nothing short anticipated remake of Beauty and the Beast Disneyland Paris. of awe inspiring and our PTM’s are in Sydney recently. Another screening of the movie was simply buzzing with excitement about As avid readers of Disney Destinations’ also held for several hundred members of this year’s conference. We are confident popular travel trade e-newsletter, Word the travel industry in Circular Quay. It was this will be the best TravelManagers of Mouse, the agents and their guests hosted by a number of partners, including conference to date.” were among the very first to watch the Disney, British Airways, Rail Plus, Lancome, The conference takes place from movie. The exclusive screening helped Air France and Uniworld. September 7 to 9. ■ travelmanagers.com.au

Picture courtesy Voltaire CARLOS

18 | WWW.TRAVELTALKMAG.COM.AU Closer than you think Located in the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, Mauritius is a contrast of colours, cultures, flavours and experiences making the island so charming that the scene is set for an unforgettable holiday all year round. [Perth to Mauritius: 8-hour direct flight]

Easier than you think Our 50th anniversary year brings new aircraft, new destinations, new gateways, and new partners. Look out for our new fares that offer more options for travel to Mauritius. www.airmauritius.com AGENTtalk

MTA ROLLS OUT GAME CHANGING FARES FACILITY MOBILE TRAVEL Agents will commence the roll out of its new in-house Global Fares tool across its entire member base this month. Announcing the news at the ‘MTA Moments Matter’ national conference on the Gold Coast, Don Beattie, CEO of MTA, said the new product had undergone successful trials and was a “massive game Qantas Captain David Oliver, 747 Fleet Senior Training Captain, with Dan Kotzmann, Founder changer for productivity.” and Managing Director, Constellation Tours Key attributes of the new technology include a search engine displaying all available flights on any given sector, NEW AUSSIE TRAVEL COMPANY the ability to book flights that originate outside of Australia, access to worldwide low cost carriers/web fares for availability, IS PREPARED FOR TAKE-OFF pricing and ticketing, and multi-leg AUSTRALIA’S NEWEST travel company has “Australians are great travellers, itinerary search capability. revealed plans to launch all-inclusive global undeterred by distance and willing to The system will also allow MTA adventures taking guests by privately travel far to experience the extraordinary. members to access market specific chartered plane to some of the world’s most Constellation Journeys will make the published and private fares (at local amazing destinations. extraordinary accessible, offering discovery point of sale) and access worldwide Constellation Journeys recently unveiled and exploration in comfort and style.” specialty fares – e.g. marine/off-shore its web site, first journey brochure and The company’s chartered 747 will be and missionary. Other features include inaugural itinerary. Departing Sydney in crewed by two Qantas captains, 18 in flight automated PNR creation from existing April 2018, the tour will visit seven global cabin crew and a team of seven support staff GDS stored profiles, local currency destinations – Hanoi, India, The Serengeti, including three catering experts, a travelling equivalent display with each search and Marrakech, New York, Havana and Tahiti. engineer, security officer and load controller. fare rules shown with a click of a mouse. Dan Kotzmann, Founder and Managing A six-class configuration will offer first class, Ben Merricks, MTA Chief Information Director of Constellation Journeys, said business plus, business class, premier class, Officer, added that the new Global Fares his company would meet demand from superior plus and superior class. solution combined with the innovative a growing number of Australians seeking “Our team, including dedicated first class MTA Companion mobile itinerary streamlined access to exotic travel and business class hosts, tour leaders and builder and travel app launched last year experiences. a doctor, will take care of every detail of continued to place members at the very “An important trend in tourism is arrangements to escort our guests safely and forefront of the ever-developing travel the emergence of new opportunities comfortably between the world’s iconic and technology landscape. for experiential, educational and active lesser-known destinations,” Mr Kotzmann ■ mtatravel.com.au adventure travellers, regardless of age,” added. he said. ■ constellationjourneys.com.au This latest incentive offer is Crystal clear CRYSTAL YACHT Expedition Cruises (CYEC) November and December 2017 and all 2018 greatest ambassadors and there is no better have announced the return of one their most CYEC on Crystal Esprit between now and way to reward their efforts than with the enticing incentives for travel professionals. December 23, 2017 will earn a complimentary opportunity to enjoy the unmatched luxury For this latest iteration of the company’s sailing for themselves and a guest aboard any they tout to their clients,” said Edie Rodriguez, popular ‘sell three/sail free’ promotion, 2018 Crystal Esprit voyage. Crystal’s Chairman, CEO and President. agents selling three suites aboard select “Our travel agent partners are some of our “The first-hand experience of the world’s best service and exceptional Crystal product will only help them convey the value of a Crystal cruise to their discerning clientele.” The all-suite, butler-serviced Crystal Esprit is ideally suited to explore exotic harbours throughout the Mediterranean and the West Indies. Welcoming just 62 travellers, she offers all-inclusive indulgences ranging from Michelin star-inspired cuisine and an endless pour of fine wines, champagnes and spirits, to a choice of one complimentary Crystal Adventure ashore in every port. ■ crystalcruises.com

20 | WWW.TRAVELTALKMAG.COM.AU AGENTtalk WIN A SPOT ON A FIVE-STAR DUBAI FAMIL TRAVELCUBE AND Dubai Tourism are giving 10 agents the chance to gain firsthand experience of one of the world’s most dynamic and exciting cities. The group will travel with Emirates in October on an exclusive five-star journey exploring Dubai’s shopping, culture, architecture and nightlife. The five-night famil – offered as part of TravelCube’s ‘Dubai on Sale’ campaign – will also include Dubai Parks and Resorts, IMG Worlds of Adventure (the planet’s largest indoor themed entertainment destination) and a brand new safari park set to open its doors in the second half of 2017. Places on the trip will be awarded to the top 10 agencies that create the highest amount of Dubai room night bookings before May 15. The agency then decides which consultant will make the trip. Selling the destination has never been easier for agents with discounts available at 25 of Dubai’s key properties, including the three-star Ibis Al Barsha (15 per cent off), four-star JW Marriott Marquis (40 per cent off) and five- star The Oberoi (35 per cent off). In addition, properties across the emirate are offering 24-hour room check-in for Australian travellers. A sky dive over Palm Jumeirah ■ travelcube.com.au

Showcase is polished for the Aussies

EXECUTIVES AND representatives from Hawaii, Mauritius, the Maldives, Fiji and Thailand joined their Australian Alexandra Bell (second from right) accepts her prize counterparts for the Outrigger Resorts Global Showcase recently. The 21-strong delegation visited Agents discover treasure in Australia Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne, hosting guests in each capital city A SERIES of events designed to educate and Square in Docklands was the lucky winner of including key wholesalers and product inspire Aussie agents about the variety of a 12-night trip to Vanuatu at the Melbourne managers, specialist travel agents, tourism product and experiences available event. The prize included flights with Air PCO’s, tourism industry partners, across the South Pacific have just kicked off. Vanuatu and accommodation at Iririki airlines and travel media. There was a strong attendance at both Island Resort & Spa, Ramada Resort Port As well as Outrigger Resorts, the the ‘Treasures of the South Pacific’ events in Vila, Bokissa Private Island Resort and The Outrigger-managed OHANA Hotels Melbourne and Adelaide. The South Pacific Havannah Vanuatu. by Outrigger, Embassy Suites, Hawaii Tourism Organisation (SPTO) hosted more In Adelaide, Erin O’Neill of Phil Hoffmann Vacation Condos by Outrigger and than 120 travel agents in Melbourne and Travel won 10 nights in Vanuatu staying at Holiday Inn brands in Hawaii were also another 60 agents at the Adelaide event. Iririki Island Resort & Spa, Moorings Hotel, represented. Attendees heard from representatives Hideaway Island Resort and Bokissa Private The company expects to reinvest of the tourism offices of Cook Islands, New Island Resort more than $100 million in renovating Caledonia, Norfolk Island, Papua New Guinea, The next ‘Treasures of the South Pacific’ and refurbishing its hotels and Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tahiti, Vanuatu and events will take place in the following from hidden treasures including Kiribati, locations: resorts drawing on its expertise in Nauru, Marshall Islands, Palau, Federated - Brisbane, August 22 business development and project States of Micronesia, Tonga, Tuvalu and - Gold Coast, August, 23 management. American Samoa. - Sydney, October 24 ■ outrigger.com Alexandra Bell from Flight Centre, Collins - Newcastle, October 25 TRAVELTALK 628 MAY 2017 | 21 INDUSTRYtalk: New Caledonia

FRIENDS ACROSS Attendees at the 2017 Rendezvous Workshop. THE WATER Pictures by Mark Harada It’s our closest Pacific neighbour so it’s no surprise that New Caledonia has become a good friend for Aussie tourists, as MARK HARADA discovers.

IT WOULD be hard to imagine a better – and reflecting a renewed focus, was grow around 10 per cent to 22,800. venue for a tourism conference than streamlined to favour quality sellers over “For Australia, we have lots of hope,” Ms Amedee Island. And New Caledonia Tourism quantity. Laronde remarked. “It’s our main priority (NCTPS) knows it; it’s one of the reasons Delegates noticed the difference too, market because you’re our neighbours and it was chosen as the location for the 2017 with Nathan Singh, an Account Executive there is a big potential to attract more and Rendezvous Workshop. with Viator, telling Traveltalk that this year’s more visitors and to compete with Vanuatu The event saw a select group of New suppliers better understood the importance and Fiji.” Cal suppliers showcase their product and of working with trade, attracting more Key to more growth is raising awareness country to travel buyers, mostly from tourism from Australia (and globally), and of the destination among Australians. Australia, but also New Zealand and Japan. were by and large more proficient in English. “I think we have a key selling point, like a Like tourism in the French Pacific nation With an improved workshop, New French touch,” she said of the island nation, generally, the workshop is on a sharp Caledonia also changed the educationals where Gallic influences abound, from its learning curve. In its first two years, the around the event, as FAM trips for the French flavoured food and wine to language, event was held at the country’s Tjibaou first time focused on themes (like a bush entertainment and even driving (that is, on Cultural Center, a cutting edge venue itself experience in the country’s west, adventure the right side of the road). worthy of activities in the north and exploring lagoons The NCTPS boss also praised the country’s high praise. on outer islands), rather than location. diversity, where French and Melanesian But this Generally, the event aimed to showcase cultures often blend seamlessly. “Who else is year it the country’s diversity and gastronomy in going to do that?” she said. moved to alignment with the #TasteNewCaledonia Caroline Brunel, NCTPS Australia Director, one of New consumer campaign. echoed her colleague. “You know, it’s such Caledonia’s All of this energy reflects growth in overall a wide place where you can see French most tourism to New Caledonia. cowboys, have the whole Melanesian famous Sitting down exclusively with Traveltalk in experience, a very French one in Noumea natural Noumea, Julie Laronde, Executive General and still have the island experience too.” sites – an Manager of New Caledonia Tourism, said Both Laronde and Brunel also hailed New island a the island nation saw year-on-year growth Caledonia’s strong commitment to the vital short ferry of nine per cent from Australia in 2016 and travel trade, reflected by another successful ride from a massive 45 per cent since 2013, with some workshop. the capital 20,900 Aussies visiting the country. In 2017, Traveltalk was in New Caledonia as a guest Noumea it’s forecasting tourism from Australia to of NCTPS, reporting exclusively for Australia.

22 | WWW.TRAVELTALKMAG.COM.AU INDUSTRYtalk HOW TO BECOME AN AGENT FOR CHANGE A NEW two-day conference has been added to The Travel Industry Exhibition & Conference, Australia’s dedicated trade event for the travel industry. With the theme ‘Agents of Change’, the conference will feature more than 20 Australian and international speakers, who will share their knowledge, discuss the future of the industry, provide skills development and the latest industry tools, and identify best practice case studies for the travel industry. The conference will be opened by Zelda la Grange, who will share her experiences and lessons learnt from 19 years as presidential aide to Nelson Mandela. Her unique outlook on life, inspired by one of the greatest statesmen of our time, is a captivating story that delegates will definitely want to hear. online communities. to see, compare and discuss the latest The next leading speaker is Richard “This is a unique opportunity for you to products and services, travel destinations, Sauerman, ‘The Brand Guy’, who is ranked 12 become an Agent of Change for your industry,” accommodation options, air services, cruising, on the world’s ‘Top 30 Brands Professionals’ said David Paterson, Event Director with tours, travel technology and more, all in an list. Richard will present his pioneering new Exhibitions and Trade Fairs, the organisers of environment where you can do business face- way to do branding where everything you do The Travel Industry Exhibition and Conference. to-face.” and say as a business is driven by and aligned “As Australia’s trade-only travel event, The Travel Industry Exhibition & Conference to a brand strategy. conference delegates will be inspired to shift takes place at Crystal Palace, Luna Park in Australia’s first professional Instagramer, their current thinking, recognise their brand Sydney on July 20 and 21 and at the Melbourne Lauren Bath, has also been added to the value and find insight into how they can Convention and Exhibition Centre on July 25 line up of stellar speakers. The chef-turned- increase their customer base. and 26. photographer will share insights into her “The free exhibition will once again take ■ To purchase conference tickets, register for Instagram success along with what place alongside the conference and will give the free exhibition or for more information, visit travel agencies need to know to grow their delegates and trade visitors the opportunity travelindustryexpo.com.au

Headline Speaker: Zelda la Grange, Presidential Aide to LUNA PARK, SYDNEY 20-21 JULY MCEC, MELBOURNE 25-26 JULY Nelson Mandela

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TRAVELTALK 628 MAY 2017 | 23 INDUSTRYtalk: Samoa FLYING OVER THE RADAR Traveltalk’s MARK HARADA reports exclusively from the Samoa Tourism Exchange, which has once again put the Pacific nation on the travel trade radar.

YOUNG USO rattles the pate, a simple but As an “emerging destination”, Bentley believes resonant drum-like instrument. He is dressed Samoa’s mystery and relatively low profile among in classic Samoan garb: shirtless with lava-lava Australians are in themselves an attraction and (sarong) covering parts of a wider traditional that bragging rights are still on offer for those tattoo, fue (whip-like accessory) flung over his that venture here. Starting with an impressive shoulder. coastline, it is indeed a destination worth Nearby a to’oto’o (big stick that’s hit on bragging about. the ground by chiefs and orators to attract “We know that Australians are adventurous attention). travellers and Samoa is the adventure destination The drum roll signals the start of another that is well suited to the Australian market,” he session at the Samoa Tourism Exchange 2017, said of a place that boasts excellent snorkelling, the country’s annual business-to-business scuba diving, surfing and just about every other tourism showcase. water sport. Samoans like to come together, whether Making the destination even more appealing it’s for a game of beach rugby, at one of their for visitors is its glut of resorts; currently room bustling markets, on a colourful bus, in their many churches, or indeed in their ubiquitous occupancy levels are low, which means Aussies (and I mean ubiquitous) family fales – and of can expect to snare some great deals. And course, importantly, for its tourism industry. It’s with smaller crowds comes almost guaranteed that togetherness, that shared warmth, that availability and, most importantly, even more defines the Samoan people; and it is its people attentive service. and culture that lie at the heart of its tourism The tourism exchange, which began in 2008, offering. is also a key to growth. Opened by the country’s Dwayne Bentley, Marketing Manager tourism minister, Bentley called the showcase for Samoa Tourism Authority, flagged his “a really important part of our destination compatriots as the nation’s biggest asset during marketing strategy” and the event certainly an exclusive interview with Traveltalk at STE underlined Samoa’s commitment to the travel 2017, which was held at the impressive and new trade, which despite a strong VFR market, is still Taumeasina Island Resort in Apia. hugely significant here. “It’s a culture that is living, day in and day out, Around 50 travel buyers from across the world, and it’s one of those places where you don’t including a large contingent from Australia, met need to go to a cultural show to see Samoan with 40 suppliers from around Samoa at the culture,” he said. event this year. But it’s the stories and Samoan Last year, the country welcomed some people that will get Aussie wholesalers, agents 145,000 overseas visitors, which for a nation of and public across the line. And young Uso rattles less than 200,000 residents is impressive. But it the pate once again… could be better and the Aussie market, which Traveltalk was a guest of the Samoa Tourism currently numbers around 30,000 per year, is Authority and reported exclusively for the Australian central to its ambitions. leisure market. Pictures by Mark Harada.

24 | WWW.TRAVELTALKMAG.COM.AU INDUSTRYtalk

MS Princess Aloha

From left to right: Peter Smith, General Manager Business Growth, Beyond Travel Group; Michael Lavilles, Managing Director and Owner, BTG; Tim Hallowell, Regional Manager NSW Commercial Operations, Emirates; Bryce Crampton, General Manager Sales and Marketing, BTG Aussie demand leads to a brand new brand DEMAND FROM the Australian market has “With the massive growth we were and still knowledge, will offer exceptional service prompted one of Australia’s oldest tour are seeing, it was time to create a unique and to their Cruise Croatia customers and travel companies to set up this country’s only separate brand and allow it to champion the agents. dedicated Croatian cruising holiday brand. destination in a way that has never been done “There has been unprecedented growth Cruise Croatia is part of the Beyond Travel before in Australia, with it already offering in the number of new ships servicing the Group and was launched at a media function over 60 cruises of varied itineraries and region. In 2013 we utilised less than a dozen in Sydney last month. The new brand was styles,” he said. ships in our range, but in 2017 we are created to take advantage of a notable “Croatia has come of age as a cruising offering over 30 with 10 newly built vessels increase in modern purpose-built deluxe ships destination and the best way to see it is for the upcoming season.” in the region and a huge demand from agents on a small ship allowing you VIP access to Together with their long standing partners, and clients over the last four years. the harbours, islands and inlets as well as Cruise Croatia source all the essential According to Peter Smith, General Manager mooring right where you want to be in the components to create these specially of Business Growth, separating the Croatian historic towns of Dubrovnik and Split.” selected Adriatic cruises from the often cruising product from the mainstream Mr Smith added that Beyond Travel have family-owned and operated ships, with product was the only way to keep up with built a team of dedicated, handpicked travel highly experienced and dedicated crew. demand from the Australian market. professionals who, with their extensive ■ cruise-croatia.com.au

VIPS RECOGNISED AT GLITTERING GALA EVENT CELEBRITIES, VIP guests and leading travel industry figures were on hand to help the APT Travel Group celebrate its 90-year journey from suburban bus line to leading cruise and tour operator. Dancers performing 1920s-style numbers and stories from the McGeary family, the owners of ATG, were highlights of the glittering gala, which was held at Melbourne’s Regent Plaza Ballroom recently. Television personality Larry Emdur was MC for the evening while Chef Luke Nguyen, an APT ambassador, presented the awards during a special ceremony to recognise ATG’s top performing VIP agents for 2016. “It was great to see so many familiar faces, and some new ones, in Melbourne The ATG sales team to help us celebrate what is a remarkable milestone,” said Debra Fox, APT Travel It was a particularly successful night for Phil Hoffmann Travel while the national Group Executive General Manager Sales & Geelong Travel, with the agency winning award for ‘Highest Sales Revenue for an Marketing. ‘Highest Sales Revenue – Single Location Online Agency’ went to Our Vacation “We also want to congratulate our Agency’ and Helen Paulus named ATG’s Centre. The ‘Rising Star’ awards went to winning agents. Their passion for sharing ‘National Highest Selling Consultant 2016’. helloworld Mackay (QLD), St Ives Travel our story with their clients continues to The national award for ‘Highest (NSW/ACT) Flight Centre Eastland (Vic/ make a real difference for us.” Revenue – Multi-location Agency’ went to Tas) and helloworld Belmont (WA/SA/NT).

TRAVELTALK 628 MAY 2017 | 25

BOOK IT now UNIQUE FESTIVAL STARS ON GENGHIS KHAN TOUR ONE OF the world’s most colourful and Eagle hunting in Mongolia. traditional events, the Naadam Festival, Picture courtesy Chanwit is among a host of highlights on Byroads Whanset/shutterstock.com Travel’s two-week long ‘Mongolian Discoverer’ tour. “The festival is so unique, it is included on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list,” said Steve Mortimer from Byroads Travel, who will host guests on this small group tour from July 4 to 17, 2018. “The three-day event officially celebrates the Mongolian revolution and independence, although the festival is said to pre-date the great warrior Genghis Khan.” The 14-day ‘Mongolian Discoverer’ begins in Ulaanbaatar and explores several cultural centres as well as the remote wilderness, populated by traditional nomads who continue to roam the great steppe lands, traversing a large part of Mongolia from and way of life of the country’s nomads. grazing their animals and living in their felt Ulaanbaatar in the central north to the ‘Mongolian Discoverer’ is priced from gers, the traditional houses of the Mongolian South Gobi Desert. It was designed to not $US3,550 (approx. $AU4,884) per person, people. only get travellers up close to the many twin share. Return air fares from Australia This tour is among the Australian-based historical monuments and natural wonders are extra. travel company’s most adventurous, but also to discover the rich cultural identity ■ byroads.com.au

Make a difference on African trip COLLETTE IS offering a tour with a difference, bringing together the highlights of South Africa and the opportunity for travellers to contribute to the local community. Visitors will be able to see the indigenous gardens and undertake volunteer work through the Knysna Education Trust (KET) which works with Collette to educate the children and assist the community. Guests can volunteer for the day at a school funded by the KET through a choice of optional activities. These include taking part in a reading activity, assisting with a lesson plan, helping the children with educational craft, painting a school mural, or assisting with maintenance in the gardens used by the children. GALS GET ONBOARD THIS “The Collette Foundation has been working with this community for the past 10 years and has seen the difference BALINESE SURFING RETREAT that this assistance has made,” said Alison Mead, Collette WITH AUSTRALIAN women of all ages taking up surfing, SHE travels is Australia General Manager. launching ‘Surf & Yoga’ trips to Bali this month, with more to follow later in the year. The rustic retreat from May 13 to 19 will provide a revitalising experience through daily surf lessons, yoga and massages amid the comfort of staying in a traditional Bali bungalow featuring private ensuite. Suzanne Hart discovered surfing at 48 and launched SHE surfs in 2014 for independent women of all ages seeking a new experience with like- minded women. “So far we’ve managed to inspire countless women, with our ladies saying they’ve surprised themselves at what they could achieve and that their outlook on life has forever changed,” Ms Hart said. “You have to surf it to believe it, but from my experience, it’s a life- Other tour highlights include Cape Town, Stellenbosch changing experience that becomes a life-long love.” and Oudtshoorn, where visitors can enjoy a guided tour of The new ‘Surf & Yoga Balangan’ trip caters to the trend of travellers the ostrich farm and view the birds in their various stages of seeking an authentic experience and is priced at $2,490 for seven-days, development, before ending the day with a South African six-nights. The retreat’s quiet beach location away from the crowds favourite, the outdoor barbecue. Collette’s ‘South African’ tour complements SHE’s existing ‘Surf & Stay – Indulge’ retreats in Seminyak. is priced from $1,799 per person with a guaranteed departure SHE travels caters for all surfing levels including beginner and further from September 2 to 9. tours are scheduled for September 2 to September 8. ■ gocollette.com ■ shetravels.net.au 28 | WWW.TRAVELTALKMAG.COM.AU MEMBER

DON’T LET YOUR MONEY GO AWAY WITHOUT YOU NEWStalk REPORT KEEPS AGENTS IN THE PICTURE

Australians are flocking to Japan to watch events like the Tajima Gion Festival. Picture courtesy Minamiaizu Town

A NEW monthly report aimed at helping Jayson Westbury, AFTA Chief Executive. and the other on the overall characteristics agents and the greater travel industry better “This report is provided by AFTA at no of the Australian travel sector. These fact understand the latest patterns in travel has cost to help inform stakeholders about the sheets provide detailed information on the just been launched. facts and trends in the travel industry in types of travel agents, the states that have Entitled AFTA Travel Trends, the report Australia. We are committed to supporting the highest rate of employment from travel details outbound departures and inbound the industry to prosper.” agents and the key attributes employers are arrivals data for the major Australian source The March report showed that Australians looking for in staff. markets and destinations that Australians took 9.9 million trips over the past 12 The fact sheets will be updated yearly and are travelling to. months (year end January 2017). This was are based on the information provided by Distributed by The Australian Federation another year that the travel industry saw the industry through the ATAS process. of Travel Agents (AFTA), the publication upward growth, up 4.2 per cent on the “AFTA hopes that these reports and also provides information on the market previous year. In the inbound market a information sheets will assist the broad set share of airlines and the underlying purpose record growth rate of 10.3 per cent was of stakeholders interested in knowing more of international travel for Australians. It is reported with more than 8.3 million visitors about the travel industry and the trends available through the AFTA website. travelling to Australia. that are developing over the coming years,” “More than 70 per cent of all Australian A highlight market is Japan, up 109.9 per added Westbury. departures are made through an Australian cent since 2013 with more than 361,000 “We look forward to feedback on these travel agent and, as a trusted source of Australians visiting last year. reports and fact sheets as we continue to industry information and data, AFTA is In addition to its Travel Trends report, AFTA bring the industry valuable information in pleased to be able to collate this into our has created two industry fact sheets; one support of travel agents.” new Travel Trends monthly report,” said on the employment profile of the sector ■ afta.com.au Fresh look prompts reward offers SI HOLIDAYS has announced a brand refresh as we introduce a whole new look and feel and the launch of its first Freestyle Holidays to the brand, and with over one million destination brochure. Australians travelling to the U.S. last year, The new USA brochure for 2017-2018 we wanted to highlight one of the brand’s features an expanded selection of the best flagship destinations in the first brochure,” the USA has to offer, including the old said Tui Eruera, Managing Director, Si favourites of Las Vegas, New York and Los Holidays. Angeles, as well as popular new destinations The new brochure includes carefully in the southern states. selected hotels, unique experiences, self- To celebrate the rebranding and the drive itineraries without fixed schedules brochure release, Si Holidays are offering and escorted motorcoach and air tours for a agents a bonus 1,000 Si rewards points hassle-free travel experience with access to for just photographing themselves with an expert travel guide. the new brochure and adding the hashtag A 51 per cent increase in visitation among #freestyleholidays. Agents receive a $100 Australians and New Zealanders to the Universal Gift Card for every 7,000 points southern states has seen Freestyle Holidays earned. expand its experiences to new destinations Muscle Shoals in Alabama. “It’s an exciting time for Freestyle Holidays such as Chattanooga, Kentucky and the ■ siholidays.com.au

30 | WWW.TRAVELTALKMAG.COM.AU NEWStalk TRAVEL TRENDS SHOW AUSSIES LOVE A DOMESTIC

NEW RESEARCH has revealed the travel way to get away,” said Pressy Sankaran, habits of Australians including how, when Commercial Director of Criteo ANZ. and why they book and pay for their travel. “The rise of online travel tools, affordable Criteo, a performance marketing hotels and accommodation-sharing sites technology company, unveiled the like Airbnb has made local travel more findings from its first ever Asian Digital affordable and easier to manage. Couple Traveller Report, conducted by Euromonitor this with a falling Australian dollar and good International. weather, all of a sudden our local tourist The report highlighted that domestic attractions become even more desirable.” travel increased by a CAGR (Compound Other key highlights of the report Annual Growth Rate) of six per cent included: between 2011-16 compared to international # Nearly nine out of 10 (87 per cent) of travel which increased by a CAGR of just respondents said that convenience was 3.8 per cent. The number of trips made by their biggest deciding factor of how, when locals is expected to continue growing, with and why they booked travel, compared to outbound and domestic trips expected to the 66 per cent of people that cited price strengthen by a CAGR of 4.8 per cent and 7.2 as the driving force behind their purchases per cent respectively from 2017 to 2020. # A significant 80 per cent of travellers The impact of mobile penetration on the took five or fewer trips in the last year; 35 travel industry was also uncovered, with per cent of these trips lasted one to two online travel sales forecasted to grow even nights, 28 per cent seven or more nights, further in the coming years. This includes and 26 per cent three to six nights. Only 11 nearly half (42 per cent) of millennials per cent of trips were one-nighters preferring smartphones for online browsing # Of these, 66 per cent were for leisure and of travel products or services, while mobile personal travel, while the remaining 34 per technology adoption on the rise and most travel sales accounted for 25 per cent of all cent covered business and other. businesses now offering a savvy mobile online travel sales in 2016. “We also found that tech-savvy millennials experience, mobile is clearly the platform of “The Australian travel industry has seen primarily browse for travel packages and the future. Businesses should prepare now to significant growth in the last decade, so it’s in-destination activities through their make the most of the growing market.” no surprise domestic travel is the preferred mobile phones and OTA mobile apps. With To download the report, visit: go.pardot.com

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TRAVELTALK 628 MAY 2017 | 31 PROPERTYtalk

Nothing Minor about plans for the UAE MINOR HOTELS has announced the signing of a management agreement for a new AVANI property in the United Arab Emirates – AVANI Al Marjan Island Ras Al Khaimah Resort. Al Marjan is a collection of four man- made islands in Ras Al Khaimah, set against the backdrop of the Arabian Peninsula, only 30 minutes from Ras Al Khaimah International Airport and 50 minutes from Dubai International Airport. The new property is to be developed by Crowngate International and is scheduled to open in late 2019. The 225-key AVANI Al Marjan Island will be located on View Island, which is home to a blend of retail destinations, hotels and resorts. Facilities at the purpose-built resort will include a IT’S THREE UP FOR SALA AS selection of rooms and AVANI suites, all day dining and poolside restaurants, a RESORT OPENS IN THAILAND kids’ club and spa. In addition, the new resort will have an outdoor swimming THE SALA Hospitality Group has announced Gym, a garden swimming pool, an open- pool and beachfront access with 360 its third luxury resort in Thailand with the air show kitchen experience – Grillerz degree views. unveiling of SALA Samui Chaweng Beach Restaurant and Bar – and a garden pool bar. The group’s pipeline for AVANI Resort and Spa on Koh Samui. “Koh Samui is a destination close to our hotels includes two other upcoming The 135-key resort is situated on a hearts as it was where our first resort opened properties in the UAE – the 372-key 120-metre white sand beachfront location in 2004, so we are delighted to unveil our AVANI Ibn Battuta Dubai Hotel and the in north Chaweng and is scheduled to second property on the island this year,” said 230-key AVANI Jebel Dhanna Resort launch in two stages. November will see the Brian Moodie, SALA Hospitality Group Chief in the coastal area of the Al Gharbia opening of the beach wing comprising 52 Operating Officer. region of Abu Dhabi, both scheduled to pool villas and pool suites. “This time around, we are bringing over a open in 2019. The 83-room garden wing will be decade’s worth of local knowledge to craft ■ minorhotels.com completed in 2018 and will feature pool an extraordinary experience for our guests.” villas and suites, the SALA Spa and SALA ■ salahospitality.com Adventure is on the menu in Cambodia ANANTARA ANGKOR has reopened its doors as Siem Reap’s newest premier all-suite resort offering more than 100 itineraries in a ‘build-your-own-adventure’ holiday. All of the resort’s 39 suites have been freshly- renovated, along with new restaurants and dining concepts, a brand new lobby area and library and a newly renovated spa. The resort now also offers new Anantara and Sothea suites featuring a private garden and those on the second level a large balcony perfect for in-suite al fresco dining under the stars. Aficionados of Southeast Asia and textiles will also love the addition of the Jim Thompson Explorer Suites boasting imported Thai silk overflowing throughout each room. The renovated resort also offers guests their own private experience butlers who remain on hand to personalise their holiday from temple tours to jungle exploration and countryside visits recommended and chosen from the resort’s new Discovery Guidebook of the area. ■ anantara.com

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accommodation option that is within reach of a multitude of restaurants, bars and shopping hotspots. STAY LIGHT, While only a recent introduction to the company’s portfolio, Meriton Serviced Apartments North Sydney showcases Sydney STAY BRIGHT Harbour views from unrivalled heights and angles. Guests of the hotel are able to watch glistening ferries sail over darkened waters in a synchronised coordination of light displays and immerse themselves in a performance encapsulating the entire colour spectrum. Those planning on venturing out from the big smoke will find comfort in Meriton Serviced Apartments Chatswood, which stands as a luxury accommodation option in one of the city’s most cultural and thriving precincts. The buildings, streets and laneways will be transformed into a retro-futuristic entertainment hub, with impressive BRIGHT LIGHTS and incandescent projections locations, including prime proximity to every refractive daytime displays and interactive will envelope Sydney this month and what event of this iridescent festival, to ensure an light sculptures scattered across the area; better way is there to experience the city all unforgettable experience. ideal for those who dare to be different and glammed up than from your own luxury suite Soaring high above the city is Meriton are in search of a more local experience. high above the streets? Serviced Apartments World Tower, which For that perfect stay during Vivid Sydney, Globally acclaimed as the greatest of its offers an expansive range of two- and three- all Meriton Serviced Apartments suites are kind, Vivid Sydney – an annual light, music bedroom premium suites for all sized groups fully-equipped with the comforts of a home and ideas festival that runs from May 26 to and families. Occupying the top 17 floors away from home. Guests can put their feet June 17 – is sure to captivate travellers from as Sydney’s tallest hotel, views from these up in a meticulously serviced suite after a all over the world. Featuring intricate designs, suites are unmatched by any other hotel, big day soaking in the creative vibes spread live contemporary music and a wealth of while maintaining a centralised location for across the city, or even refresh the senses entertainment, the outdoor canvas that is ultimate convenience. using the first class recreational facilities Sydney will be illuminated to showcase a Meriton Serviced Apartments on Pitt and found at every location. conglomerate of festivities. Kent Streets are positioned only a short stroll Within walking distance of public transport, With so many events and activations away from an array of pyrotechnic projections restaurants, cafes and an abundance spread across the area, a stay in the heart and water installations at Darling Harbour. of shopping options, Meriton Serviced of Sydney’s city centre is a must. Meriton Within moments of all the action, both hotel Apartments guarantee a seamless stay away. Serviced Apartments offer the perfect locations are ideally situated for a central ■ meritonapartments.com.au New property located well inside the box THE MELBOURNE suburb of Box Hill will become the site of the city’s second DoubleTree by Hilton, one of Hilton’s 14 distinct brands. Box Hill is a major commercial hub in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs and is an area of strategic significance with planned growth in employment, housing, business, services and public investment. “We are proud to mark our brand’s second property in Melbourne – one of delivering upscale, full-service hotels in key President, Development Australasia, Hilton. Australia’s most vibrant cities,” said Dianna markets and gateway cities around the world.” "The signing of DoubleTree by Hilton Vaughan, Senior Vice President and Global The hotel will boast 200 rooms, a Melbourne Box Hill is an integral part of our Head, DoubleTree by Hilton. restaurant, bar and gym. It will be located regional portfolio expansion plans for the “Our hotel in Box Hill presents an ideal at 874 Whitehorse Road, Box Hill, and is country, which prioritise key city centres location for the surrounding education, expected to open in 2020. as well as leisure destinations across the government and healthcare facilities and “We are committed to growing Hilton’s country.” underscores our brand’s commitment to presence in Australia,” said Robert Scullin, Vice ■ doubletree.com

34 | WWW.TRAVELTALKMAG.COM.AU PROPERTYtalk: Review

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IN QUEENSTOWN On arrival we enjoyed an informal and Tower Suite which has 270 degree views, a DEBBIE SPROULE checks-in to the welcoming check-in. It took just a few full lounge and its own gas fireplace. newest luxury boutique hotel in minutes to be settled into our modern and A delicious a la carte breakfast menu is spacious gondola twin room so we could on offer which includes espresso coffees, a Queenstown in New Zealand. be back downstairs to meet a few other choice of breakfast or herbal teas, orange WITH THE June ski season fast approaching, guests for happy hour by the cosy fire. Pre- juice, croissants and preserves. the Queenstown Park Boutique Hotel (QPBH) dinner drinks and canapés are served every This architecturally-designed hotel would be a perfect choice to enhance your evening and along with wireless internet complements Queenstown’s mountain experience in this enchanting New Zealand and car parking are included in the room backdrop to perfection. We were impressed town. rate. with the modern romantic style plus the QPBH is centrally located and nestled The downstairs gondola twin rooms have personal attention and local knowledge among colourful parklands with views of two queen beds and doors opening onto provided by our hotel hosts. The Remarkables mountain range and the a courtyard, while the upstairs rooms have Rates vary from $NZ450 to $NZ850 famous Skyline Gondola. Offering five-star balconies. All the rooms have 32” LCD TV’s, (approx. $AU417 to $AU788) per night accommodation, it is Queenstown’s newest a separate bath and shower. There are 19 depending on the room and season. luxury boutique hotel. rooms in total and a fabulous two-bedroom ■ queenstownparkhotel.co.nz Landing soon Travelodge Hotel Sydney Airport

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TRAVELTALK 628 MAY 2017 | 35 SKYtalk

IT’S GOOD MORNING TO VIETNAM IN OZ A NEW direct service from Hanoi to Sydney is expected to generate an incremental $62 million in inbound visitor spend from Vietnam each year. The three-weekly service will be operated on a 274-seat Boeing 787-9, adding 85,000 seats annually. Debuting at the end of March, the new Vietnam Airlines service is designed to support the popular visiting-family-and-friends market and promote Vietnam as a holiday destination. “More than 240,000 passengers travelled between Sydney and Vietnam in 2016, and we’re delighted this new service will provide more choice for this growing market,” said Kerrie Mather, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Sydney Airport. Vietnam Airlines is part of the SkyTeam REACHING THIS PACIFIC PARADISE Alliance and was the second airline in the world to operate both next-generation JUST GOT A LOT MORE COMFY aircraft, the Boeing 787-9 and Airbus 350, at the same time. It was named a ACCESSING THE Cook Islands just got a lot airline first introduced the aircraft in 1985 SkyTrax certified four-star airline in 2016 more comfortable with Air New Zealand with the 767 flying the majority of ANZ’s and also operates a daily Ho Chi Minh (ANZ) upgrading its aircraft to operate a long-haul routes. City – Sydney service. 787-9 Dreamliner on the direct Sydney to The aircraft has been progressively “The new service will increase Rarotonga service. replaced by the more fuel efficient capacity to meet growing tourism, The aircraft will offer its award-winning Dreamliner since July 2014 with a further business and trade demand, as well as interior products including lie-flat business two Dreamliners to be delivered later this contributing toward the development of premier beds and comfortable premium year. The airline has a total of 13 Dreamliners the relationship between Australia and economy seats. The Sydney-Rarotonga on order, with deliveries running until Vietnam,” said Mr Hung Truong, General service operates once a week and is six late 2018. Manager Vietnam Airlines. hours in duration. “The Boeing 767 aircraft has been a ■ vietnamairlines.com The service also introduces the airline’s stalwart at Air New Zealand for more than economy Skycouch to the route for the first 30 years now but moving to operate the time, allowing customers to book a row modern 787-9 Dreamliners on our long-haul of three economy seats with customised routes will allow us to be more efficient and footrests that raise to a horizontal position, have a consistent wide-body fleet which will creating a flat flexible space to stretch out deliver benefits to both the business and and relax. customers,” said Captain David Morgan, Meanwhile ANZ has announced it is Air New Zealand Chief Operations Integrity retiring its Boeing 767-300ER aircraft after & Standards Officer. more than three decades in service. The ■ airnewzealand.com Thai airline rings the changes BANGKOK AIRWAYS has introduced priority baggage claim, fast track and premium economy class onboard its flights, reward points from economy class to be offering several passenger privileges. accrued on Flyer Bonus Program. Premium economy seats offer single aisle Travellers can also relax in style and configuration with two seats on each side comfort at the airline’s business class from row one to three, leaving the middle lounge, enjoying complimentary snacks seat empty to provide more convenient and refreshments as well as surfing the space for passengers. The seats have a internet free of charge from one of BA’s pitch of 31 inches and are more than computer terminals. 19 inches wide. The airline has also just launched new Passengers in premium economy will in-flight menus, offering six of the best enjoy a selected in-flight menu and will be Thai dishes and the signature dishes from entitled to privileges including a priority 10 ASEAN countries. check-in counter, 30kg baggage allowance, ■ bangkokair.com

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0317_PREM ECON FLYER.indd 1 24/03/2017 12:17 pm SKYtalk CHINESE ROUTES GIVE AUSSIES MORE OPTIONS AUSSIE PASSENGERS will reap the benefit as Air China strengthens its global network from its Beijing hub during the Northern Hemisphere summer. The airline is launching three new international routes this month: Shanghai – Barcelona, Beijing – Astana (capital of Kazakhstan) and Beijing – Zurich. From May 5, the Shanghai-Barcelona service will operate three times per week (Tue/Fri/Sun) with an Airbus 330-200. On June 1, the Beijing – Astana service will also operate three times per week (Tue/ Paris, Milan, Rome, Madrid, Barcelona, fully flat business class seats in a 2-2-2- Thu/Sun) with an Airbus 320. On June Vienna, Geneva, Stockholm, Athens, configuration and in economy class a 2-4-2 7, the Beijing – Zurich service will begin Budapest, Minsk, Warsaw and Moscow. seat configuration. operating four times per week (Tue/Wed/ The new Beijing-Zurich and Shanghai- The new routes will benefit Australian Fri/Sun) on an Airbus 330-200. Barcelona routes complement Air passengers flying Air China to Europe via Zurich will be the 18th destination for China’s existing Beijing-Geneva and Beijing and Shanghai. The carrier currently the airline, the largest carrier between Beijing-Vienna-Barcelona service operates 20 flights per week fly from China and Europe. The Swiss city will offering passengers more options fly to Sydney to Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, and join other European destinations such as Switzerland and Spain. The airline will Melbourne to Beijing, Shanghai directly. London, Frankfurt, Munich, Dusseldorf, operate the wide-body A330-200 with 180 ■ airchina.com.au X MARKS THE SPOT IN ECONOMY VIRGIN AUSTRALIA has launched Economy boarding and priority security screening. On X into the market, promising to transform international flights, the category includes economy travel in Australia. all the above plus premium check-in, The airline’s entire fleet of 75 Boeing 737 guaranteed first meal choice and premium aircraft are being reconfigured to provide noise-cancelling headset. extra legroom in the first three rows of The airline has also launched flights the economy cabin. The majority of the between Melbourne and Los Angeles, reconfiguration is due to be finished by the bringing its business class offering, ‘The end of May. Business’, to the route for the first time. For domestic flights, Economy X will Operated by 777-300ER aircraft, the new be located in rows three to five as well as service lands in Los Angeles at 9am, the exit rows and will features a minimum meaning both business and leisure travellers of three inches (7.62cm) extra legroom, can enjoy a full day on the ground. Sitting pretty in Economy X preferred overhead locker space, priority ■ virginaustralia.com New airline partner touches down MALINDO AIR has touched down at Malindo Air will operate a Boeing 737- Perth in Western Australia. Brisbane Airport, heralding the beginning 900 aircraft, seating 12 business class “We will certainly work on building of new daily flights to and from Kuala and 150 economy class passengers. As a beneficial relationships with Malaysian Lumpur via Denpasar in Bali. premium service airline, Malindo Air also and Australian tourism players and The new flights will add more than offers meals and in-flight entertainment Brisbane Airport Corporation, to ensure 130,000 seats annually between on its aircraft serving Brisbane. the success of this new route,” said Queensland and Malaysia, providing Malindo is the 30th airline now flying Chandran Rama Muthy, CEO of Malindo connections to 40 other international into BNE with the airline currently Air. destinations on Malindo Air’s extended operating 10 weekly flights to and from ■ malindoair.com flight network. “It’s exciting to celebrate partnerships with new airlines such as Malindo Air as they provide greater choice and convenience for passengers and global connectivity for Queensland,” said Julieanne Alroe, Brisbane Airport Corporation (BAC) CEO and Managing Director.

38 | WWW.TRAVELTALKMAG.COM.AU SKYtalk NEWS IN BRIEF/// LOW-COST carrier AirAsia has launched an enhanced group booking system for travel agents using the AirAsia SkyAgent and Corporate Account trade portals in Australia. The new, automated group booking system enables agents to check and book fares and ancillary add-ons for up CATHAY PACIFIC celebrated the maiden arrival of its first A350-900 aircraft to Brisbane to 50 passengers, as well as manage recently. The aircraft features the latest in aviation technology – combining advanced customer details and payment options. aerodynamics, state-of-the-art technology and innovative designs. From a quieter Agents registered for the AirAsia cabin to LED mood lighting, the new aircraft improves passenger comfort and helps SkyAgent portal can also contact a travellers arrive to their destination feeling refreshed. dedicated support email address or Cathay’s new A350 will also offer the airline’s first in-flight Wi-Fi service for Australian their account manager for queries travellers. For a small fee, passengers can browse the internet, send and receive emails regarding bookings made via the and connect on social media, while access to the Cathay Pacific website, a number of SkyAgent portal. partner websites as well as three live TV news channels are available free of charge. ■ airasia.com ■ cathaypacific.com.au

QATAR AIRWAYS will resume daily flights between Adelaide and Doha from December 2, providing greater connectivity options for consumers and businesses. Adam Radwanski, Senior Manager at Qatar Airways Australasia, said the return to daily flights on this route demonstrates the airline’s commitment to the South Australian market. Travellers to and from Adelaide can benefit from a premium on- board experience on the Qatar Airways A350 aircraft, which now features new luxury amenity kits through a three year partnership with BRIC’S. Qatar will launch a myriad of new destinations this year, including Dublin, Las Vegas, Rio de Janeiro and Santiago. ■ qatarairways.com

TRAVELTALK 628 MAY 2017 | 39 WEDDINGS

Nine couples from around the world were invited to celebrate THAI-ING their wedding ceremonies in Thailand recently. Here, in their first interview since getting married, we speak to the Australian couple THE KNOT who were part of the ‘Thailand Wedding Destiny’ campaign.

 What was your reaction when envisaged a beach wedding while I wanted costumes to be made for us. Luckily, Q you were chosen to celebrate a more elegant, traditional wedding. Koh we had an amazing wedding planner your wedding in Thailand? Samui was able to provide the perfect who was able to clarify the language Yasmin: We felt truly honoured to be picked mixture of both elements for us. around the measurements needed and out of all the Australian couples that had How smooth was the ensured we provided the bridal shop applied and to know that our story would Q planning process? with the information they were after. be shared with the world. Thailand was Yasmin: We really had a dream run in I think with any destination wedding there one place we hadn’t yet been to together, terms of organising the wedding from is always a small amount of stress when you but it was definitely on our bucket list. afar. The only challenge that occurred haven’t physically seen the venue and you We had always dreamed of saying our occasionally was the language barrier, are relying on photographs to show you vows to each other in a truly magical especially when dealing with companies what the elements of your wedding will place, so were absolutely over the moon that were less proficient in English. look like. However, we were absolutely spoilt knowing we had the opportunity to do this This happened when we were sending with every aspect of our wedding day and in beautiful Koh Samui. Alex had always measurements for our Thai wedding had a highly competent and professional

4040 || WWW.TRAVELTALKMAG.COM.AUWWW.TRAVELTALKMAG.COM.AU WEDDINGS

wedding event planning and management writing our own vows to each other. MEET THE HAPPY COUPLE team who took care in ensuring every detail Everything went perfectly. We had the Yasmin Wellington and Alexander was looked after to the highest standard. warm afternoon sunlight shining down Brennan (he prefers Alex) first met in : Did the ceremony live up to on us as we exchanged rings and the 2013. Yasmin is a speech pathologist Q all your expectations? entire ceremony was everything and and Alex is an account manager for more that we could have wished for. booking.com. They live in Brisbane. Yasmin: Koh Samui is the most magical location, the scenery is truly : What was the most memorable stunning and our guests are still talking Q part of your day? about what a beautiful day it was. Yasmin: To pick one memorable moment We had a traditional Thai ceremony in is truly a hard choice, the day was full World-class wedding the morning and had beautiful silk Thai of unforgettable moments from start wedding costumes designed for us to wear. to finish. Being whisked off after the and honeymoon It was called a water blessing ceremony ceremony on a luxury speedboat with our and we were blessed by all our family and bridal party was pretty incredible. As was destination friends in a beautiful garden ceremony being serenaded during the reception THE ‘THAILAND Wedding Destiny’ overlooking the beach. White and gold by the singer with an impromptu song campaign was aimed at promoting petals were scattered in lovely shapes around sung to the tune of La Bamba with the the country as a wedding destination, the lawn and large colourful bouquets of lyrics ‘Alex and Yaz’ interchanged. as well as promoting Thai wedding pink, purple and gold flowers surrounded But I would have to say a truly magical organizers in the global market. Apart us. It was an amazing experience. moment that we will cherish forever would from Australia, countries invited to take In the afternoon we had our official be when we entered the reception area as part included China, Hong Kong, Japan, western-style ceremony and words can’t husband and wife. We made our entrance to England, France, Czech Republic, USA describe how fantastic it was. We were the song A Sky Full of Stars by Coldplay and and Brazil. The venue chosen by Yasmin married on a glass platform floating on as we walked down the stairs to our guests and Alex was the Intercontinental Samui an infinity pool, surrounded by our family they had made an arch of sparklers for us to Baan Taling Ngam Resort, a five-star and friends and overlooking the Gulf of walk through. The sky was truly sparkling luxury hotel in Surat Thani, Koh Samui. Thailand and its amazing beaches. and it was an incredibly joyful moment. Thailand is a world-class wedding The arch we stood under was made : Why do you think Thailand is such and honeymoon destination with of blush and white tulle and the most a great wedding destination? a variety of venues to choose from, incredible flower chandelier hung above Q Yasmin: For us, the standout was definitely professional wedding planners, our heads with hundreds of amazing the people in Koh Samui who made all related services (flower arrangements, roses. Flower boxes of baby’s breath our wedding dreams come to life. Of costumes, caterings, photographers, and roses lined the glass aisle and the course, the location is magnificent – the etc.), accommodations to suit all soaring mountain landscape provided beaches, the mountains, the countless budgets and needs, moderate the perfect backdrop for our ceremony. amazing ceremony venues you can choose temperature all year round, competitive I was lucky enough to have my wonderful from, all are incredible. But what made it prices and, above all, the unique Thai uncle walk me down the aisle and that a great wedding destination for us was hospitality. Thailand can cater to any moment where he walked me up to meet definitely the amazing Thai people. styles of wedding, including Christian, my partner was one I will always cherish. The Buddhist, Islamic and Thai traditional. celebrant did a fantastic job of balancing sincerity and humour and Alex and I loved continues page 42 TRAVELTALK 628 MAY 2017 | 41 WEDDINGS

From our event planner and his entire team, to the celebrant, to the florists who made our bouquets and arrangements, to the chef who Exchange your vows designed our cake, the food and beverage manager who organised in a dream location our delicious menu, to the staff at the Intercontinental who organised massages and speedboat outings to go snorkelling and swimming post wedding day... and countless others along the way, all did their part in ensuring we had the most magical day possible. Each and every person who was a part of this process went out of their way to help of the wedding, just as we would have in us, to answer our questions and to put Australia – the theme, the type of flowers, our minds at ease that the day would run the table settings, the music, the bride smoothly – and it did. Words can’t express and bridesmaid’s makeup and hairstyles, how much that day meant to us and we the cake design... the list is endless. will cherish those memories for a lifetime. Most of the stress of wedding planning : So you would definitely recommend was taken away by having a highly Q Thailand to other couples competent wedding planning team, Thailand recently hosted the 4th Annual considering an overseas wedding? meaning the entire planning process Destination Wedding Planners Congress was quite enjoyable. To all the couples in Phuket, bringing together high end Yasmin: Absolutely. Our wedding was thinking of a destination wedding, we destination wedding planners under so much more amazing than anything we would highly recommend Thailand as a one roof to meet a lavish spread of could have imagined having in Australia place where dreams really do come true. organizations – extravagant hotels, resorts, and we consider ourselves so lucky to ■ tourismthailand.org chateaus, and venues along with leading have had the experience we did! wedding suppliers and creative partners. We were able to plan every element Pictures courtesy Narz Photography

Aussies embracing wedding boom

THE WEDDING industry is changing fast and delivering some unexpected but exciting opportunities for Australia’s food and accommodation sector. That’s the opinion of Carl Taranto, one of Australia’s most experienced and respected accommodation and hotel industry experts. Mr Taranto is currently Managing Director of Santai Retreat, a boutique, self-contained holiday destination located near Kingscliff on the Tweed Coast of New South Wales. Discussing the fast-growing wedding excursion boom, Mr Taranto said that once upon a time, couples looked to have a large wedding and reception at a traditional hotel venue and then jumped on a plane and flew off to their honeymoon. “Now many couples are choosing to have smaller more intimate weddings at resorts like Santai Retreat, invite all their to enjoy a holiday with friends and by TripAdvisor in 2015 and 2016. guests to stay with them for a few days family and put the money they saved “Most destination wedding excursion to experience the fun and celebration towards the purchase of property. This brides want a great venue where they of their wedding and then stay on for is creating a boom for tourist and resort can feel like they’ve escaped from the their honeymoon. In fact, a lot of couples venues across Australia including ours.” world, a luxurious fully-appointed are inviting guests to stay on for the The Balinese-inspired Santai Retreat room, a good day spa, and a great pool entire duration of their honeymoon. offers a number of different boutique or beach nearby. We deliver on this Laem Panwa, Phuket hugthailand www.tourismthailand.org/au “Couples are reducing the cost of their wedding options and has been and at a highly affordable price.” weddings, opting to travel to a resort acknowledged for excellent service ■ santairetreat.com.au Photo by phuketbestgroup

42 | WWW.TRAVELTALKMAG.COM.AU

TATADS_TRAVELTALK_FULLPAGE SIZE 210mmwx297mmh Exchange your vows in a dream location

Laem Panwa, Phuket hugthailand www.tourismthailand.org/au

Photo by phuketbestgroup

TATADS_TRAVELTALK_FULLPAGE SIZE 210mmwx297mmh HAWAII: LUXURY

MILLION DOLLAR MAKEOVER FIT FOR A PRINCE THE FORMER Hawaii Prince Hotel heightened with craft Waikiki and Golf Club has launched its cocktails, beers and wines new identity as Prince Waikiki following on tap, à la carte, buffet an extensive $US55 million (approx. and a small bites menu. story, Solomon Enos, created vibrant abstract $AU72 million) redevelopment. In addition, private dining venues offer paintings displayed throughout the hotel. The eight-month renewal includes unique options for special occasions. 563 transformed oceanfront guest Attracting locals and visitors alike, INSPIRED DESIGN rooms and suites, redefined dining Katsumidori Sushi Tokyo has opened Lead architect G70 and Creative Resource options, a modernised lobby with its first overseas location on the hotel’s Associates (CRA) designed and rebranded personalised services, a new infinity lobby level. Rounding out the new dining the hotel, aiming to perpetuate its sense of pool and enhanced meeting space. options is Honolulu Coffee Company, place by sharing the story of the location’s “We’re thrilled to unveil an all-new offering a complete coffee experience in intriguing history as a gathering place. experience that truly meets the needs its café, also located in the hotel’s lobby. Distinctive symbolic elements that and expectations of today’s traveller,” said once flourished at the site serve as the Chuck Abbott, General Manager. “Beyond foundation for the redesign and rebrand: the impressive physical transformation, the muliwai, or thriving estuary; the Pi‘inaio, we’ve also focused on personalising a convergence of three fresh water streams; guest services and offering a modern the naio flower, an indigenous restorative artful place for travellers to gather.” plant; the hinana, a nourishing fish; and limu ‘ele‘ele, a rejuvenating seaweed. ROOMS All 563 remodelled guest rooms and suites LOCATION showcase floor-to-ceiling ocean views Prince Waikiki is central to one of Honolulu’s and a new comfortable seating area. With most exciting neighbourhoods – Honolulu/ GATHERING PLACES windows that open to tropical breezes, Chinatown, Kaka‘ako, Ala Moana and Waikiki. Guests will appreciate new indoor and guests have the option to transform their From the beaches and shopping of Waikiki outdoor gathering spaces – lobby, room into their own private lanai. and Ala Moana, to the trendy restaurants pool, dining and event venues. A new Spacious bathrooms include updated that locals love, travellers are just minutes infinity pool and exclusive Prince Waikiki fixtures, modern basins and specialised away from everything modern O’ahu offers. Club lounge offers great views of the bath amenities by Mālie Organics Guests can easily access landmark adventures ocean while the Muliwai Deck allows featuring all-natural organic products such as Pearl Harbor, Diamond Head State for outdoor relaxation near the pool. embodying the tropical flora of Hawaii. Monument and the hotel’s 27-hole Arnold Suspended in the lobby is a signature Palmer/Ed Seay championship golf course. CUISINE art piece named Hulali i ka lā, meaning With Chef de Cuisine Joseph Almoguera at ‘glistening in the sun’, featuring more than TO BOOK the helm, the hotel’s signature restaurant, 800 pieces of shimmering copper. Designed Opening rates start from $US490 100 Sails Restaurant & Bar, frames expansive by acclaimed local artist Kaili Chun, this (approx. $AU640) per night, including sunset views and focuses on fresh island exhibit is embodied in the hotel’s new logo. breakfast. Terms and conditions apply. cuisine. The new bar’s experience is Another native Hawaiian artist inspired by the ■ PrinceWaikiki.com

44 | WWW.TRAVELTALKMAG.COM.AU THE HORIZON NOW AT YOUR FINGERTIPS

At the new Prince Waikiki, the in nity pool and ocean merge while our personalized service helps everyday life vanish into the horizon. Experience our Room & Brekkie package, including an ocean view room, daily breakfast, guaranteed early check-in at noon and no resort charge. 5 night minimum stay required.

Find your escape at PRINCEWAIKIKI.COM/BREKKIE HAWAII: ADVERTORIAL local culture meets WORLD-CLASS HOSPITALITY HAWAII HAS long been the island Travellers who reserve a stunning Ocean and majestic silhouette of Diamond getaway of travellers’ dreams – oceanfront room or suite are invited Head as backdrop. The ceremony, inspired sunshine, soft sand beaches and surf to the resort’s premier club lounge by Hoao Paa, a centuries old Hawaii custom are synonymous with the Aloha State. directly overlooking Waikiki Beach where a couple is bound in lasting union, is From arrival to departure, Outrigger to experience tropical tastes of the a way for couples to honour their love and Resorts and its iconic Waikiki beachfront islands, plus premium beverages. celebrate their time together in paradise. properties, Outrigger Reef Waikiki Mornings begin with a rich, robust Travellers looking to stay at Outrigger Beach Resort and Outrigger Waikiki local brew and the daily discovery, a local Resorts throughout Asia Pacific should sign Beach Resort, are treating guests excursion with a snack pairing to set guests up for the Outrigger DISCOVERY program. to luxurious accommodations in an on their way. When the day ends, guests The brand’s first loyalty program is part unparalleled destination where local can bask in the golden glow of a Waikiki of Global Hotel Alliance’s (GHA) award- culture meets world-class hospitality. sunset while sipping chilled craft beer or winning DISCOVERY loyalty program, Ke ‘Ano Wa‘a, or The Outrigger specialty cocktails and relishing the resort’s dedicated to offering exceptional travel Way, is a process that defines the local twist on hors d’oeuvres, or pupu. adventures that immerse guests in the rich corporate culture at Outrigger, The escape from ordinary continues culture and traditions of each location. intricately connecting the relationship with an array of unique local amenities From hula and ukulele lessons in between host (employees), guest and and cultural programs exclusive to Hawaii to a private reef tour in Fiji or place. With premier Outrigger Resorts Outrigger Resorts’ Signature Experiences. romantic dinner for two in the Maldives, located on iconic beachfronts, magical Lei making and ukulele and hula lessons Outrigger Resorts offers an extensive experiences centred on authentic, local are all complimentary cultural activities selection of local experiences for customs capture hearts and imagination offered to guests as opportunities to learn DISCOVERY member guests to enjoy. creating memories for years to come. more about and connect with Hawaii; Whether diving deep into timeless Hawaiian The commitment to creating authentic however, Outrigger Resorts’ most popular culture or experiencing the excitement experiences extends to Outrigger Resorts’ Signature Experience is the complimentary of Waikiki Beach, Outrigger Reef Waikiki Signature Experiences where guests culturally-inspired beachfront vow Beach Resort and Outrigger Waikiki Beach immerse themselves in the local renewal ceremony hosted for guests. Resort guests are assured the perfect lifestyle of their chosen The intimate Hawaiian destination for making dreams a reality. destination. At Outrigger ceremonies at Outrigger Waikiki ■ outrigger.com Reef Waikiki Beach Resort Beach Resort and Outrigger Reef this often begins and Waikiki Beach Resort take place ends with a visit to the fronting Oahu’s famous Waikiki Voyager 47 Club Lounge. Beach with the sapphire Pacific

46 | WWW.TRAVELTALKMAG.COM.AU local culture meets WORLD-CLASS HOSPITALITY

Escape Ordinary.

Outrigger Resorts Signature Experiences immerse you in an array of locally-inspired programs and amenities that help connect you to the cultures of Outrigger Resorts throughout the world.

Find out at Outrigger.com/escapeordinary

HAWAI‘I FIJI THAILAND GUAM MAURITIUS MALDIVES UPCOMING: VIETNAM HAWAII: LUXURY RITZ-CARLTON SPA DEBUTS IN WAIKIKI BEACH

FROM THE hot pōhaku stones of Hawaii HO‘OMALU: A SENSE OF PEACE Island’s fiery volcanoes to the cold Inspired by the Hawaiian traditional ‘awa rain-beaded kī leaves of Oahu’s lush rituals, this experience creates a personal rainforests, the balancing elements and place of peace through a cleared mind and healing power of the Hawaiian Islands’ renewed presence. The treatment includes natural resources are at the forefront grounding leg and foot mask, deep of Waikīkī’s newest luxury spa oasis. lomilomi massage and scalp treatment. The Ritz-Carlton Spa has debuted HUKI HUKI: RENEW on the island of Oahu at The Ritz- Kī is a sacred plant that is traditionally used Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach, for spiritual and medicinal purposes. The welcoming guests to discover customized kī plant will be used to huki, or pull, the treatments and services inspired by toxins and tension to renew and cleanse traditional Hawaiian healing methods the body, mind and spirit. This special and Hawaii’s natural surroundings. treatment includes mud wrap, energizing Located on the eighth floor lobby level lomilomi massage and scalp treatment. of the newly-opened luxury residential resort, the 315-square-metre spa serves MĀNOA MIST: REVITALIZE as a tranquil respite above the vibrant Inspired by the upland forests of Mānoa, and bustling streets of Waikīkī, featuring where the mist of the Tuahine rain blow down into Waikīkī, this treatment a contemporary and elegant space in features healing ‘olena (turmeric) and two levels with treatment rooms, men’s native lehua blossoms that encourage and women’s locker rooms, rainforest vitality and rejuvenate the body. shower, eucalyptus steam room, dry cedar A full-body sugar exfoliation and sauna and retail and reception area an energizing lomilomi massage Hawaiian Rainforest Naturals Co-Founder featuring 307 stylishly-appointed rooms are included with this treatment. and Hawaiian cultural practitioner Melia and suites, all of which are ocean facing, Goodenow of Hawaii Island developed Other treatments and spa services commanding unparalleled views of the spa menu offerings and the signature include herbal body remedies, massage the Pacific. Guests can discover a vast treatments highlighting the natural therapies, facials and skin boosters. array of distinctive experiences along surroundings found in the ahupua‘a Additionally, the spa retail centre features with legendary Ritz-Carlton service. subdivision of Waikīkī stretching from products by ESPA, The Ritz-Carlton Spa In addition to The Ritz-Carlton Spa, other Mānoa Valley to Waikīkī Beach. Fresh, Hawaiian Rainforest Naturals, amenities include the highest infinity pool in All signature treatments commence Knesko, Coola, Yoga Balm and more. Waikiki and a premier fitness centre designed with the Henoheno Ritual where guests The Ritz-Carlton Spa at The Ritz-Carlton by celebrity trainer Harley Pasternak. From are presented with a warm and cherishing Residences, Waikiki Beach is open daily from a sushi legend from Japan to one of the Hawaiian welcome of ‘ano‘ai ke aloha before 7:30am to 7pm. Spa services are available world’s most iconic gourmet markets, embarking on their journey with a foot bath to resort guests as well as day spa visitors. a fine selection of dining experiences that features a light lomilomi foot massage ABOUT THE RESORT that ensure an adventure for the senses with exfoliation using yellow ginger flower The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki adds to the enjoyment for all guests. essence. Signature treatments include: Beach is Waikiki’s newest luxury resort ■ ritzcarlton.com/waikiki 48 | WWW.TRAVELTALKMAG.COM.AU WAIKIKI ELEVATED

ESCAPE TO WAIKIKI AND DISCOVER A NEW HORIZON OF LUXURY

The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach is now open. We invite you to experience Oahu’s newest luxury resort featuring expansive ocean views from every room and suite, international culinary delights, world-class amenities and legendary service.

WWW.RITZCARLTON.COM/WAIKIKI | 1800-145-004

GDS: RZ | AMADEUS: HNLRRZ | SABRE: 0309068 | APOLLO/GALLILEO: C5022 | WORLDSPAN: HNLRR

NO RESORT FEE. NO ADDITIONAL PERSON CHARGE. THE RITZ-CARLTON RESIDENCES, WAIKIKI BEACH REQUIRES A TWO-NIGHT MINIMUM STAY AND DOES NOT PARTICIPATE IN THE RITZ-CARLTON REWARDS®, MARRIOTT REWARDS® OR STARWOOD’S SPG® PROGRAMS. POINTS CANNOT BE EARNED OR REDEEMED AT THIS PROPERTY. The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach are not owned, developed, marketed or sold by The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. or its affiliates (“Ritz-Carlton”). PACREP LLC and its affiliates use The Ritz-Carlton marks under license from The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company L.L.C., however Ritz-Carlton has not confirmed the accuracy of any of the statements or representations made herein or in any other materials. HAWAII

AIRLINE HAS DESIGNS ON A NEW FLEET HAWAIIAN AIRLINES has revealed a “With an 88-year legacy of authentic Design Director of JPA Design. “Symbolism distinctive cabin design for its new A321neo Hawaiian hospitality, we are rooted in a from Hawaii’s story is woven throughout fleet arriving later this year. sense of place and culture that guides the the cabin interiors, subtly immersing guests The medium-haul, single-aisle aircraft will sensory design elements across our fleet. in an environment that brings an elevated, complement the carrier’s fleet of long-haul, Together with JPA Design, we have created authentic, premium leisure experience.” twin-aisle planes used between Hawaii an emotionally satisfying, aesthetically rich Hawaiian expects to take delivery of 18 and the U.S. mainland and 11 international inflight experience that will transform guests new A321neo aircraft between the fourth destinations, including Australia, and its in every cabin of our A321neo aircraft.” quarter of 2017 and 2020. Considered the narrow-body Boeing 717 fleet flying short, The new interior of the A321 has been most fuel-efficient aircraft of its type, the inter-island routes. carefully tailored to the emotional journeys plane will seat 189 passengers with 16 first “We are a unique destination carrier that and ergonomic needs of a variety of class, 45 extra comfort and 128 economy caters to the needs of guests travelling to, travellers. class seats. Sales for flights served by the from and between the beautiful islands “We crafted a cabin interior that draws new aircraft and the first dedicated routes of Hawaii,” said Avi Mannis, Senior Vice inspiration from Hawaii’s rich past and will be announced later this year. President of Marketing, Hawaiian Airlines. contemporary present,” said Tim Manson, ■ HawaiianAirlines.com

COCKTAIL HOTLINE MAKES A BIG SPLASH A KAUAI hotel is planning Hawaii’s only types featuring bright island cocktail hotline that lets guests order their decor, free Wi-Fi internet umbrella-laden drinks without leaving access and private lanais. their sun loungers. Families travelling with small The quirky, retro-inspired Kauai Shores children will enjoy the pool Hotel on the island’s Coconut Coast has view rooms with easy access embarked on a $250,000 improvement to the swimming pool while project that will include an upgrade to the self-catering types can take pool deck area, a new pool and hot tub, as advantage of the studio suite well as new outdoor furniture. with its own kitchenette. The changes also include the hotline Using fresh ingredients that lets guests dial the Lava Lava Beach and locally sourced produce coconut vodka and the popular Huggo’s Club restaurant with their cocktail orders wherever possible, the menu at the Lava Mai Tai. for delivery direct. The hotel relaunched in Lava Beach Club offers a farm-to-beach Guests can also stretch their muscles 2015 after the completion of a renovation philosophy. Fresh fish entrees, pizzas and and strengthen their core with project that included a new lobby and the their famous pineapple fried rice bowl complimentary yoga classes, which are addition of the island’s only ‘toes in the are among some favourites you’ll find on held three times a week on the oceanfront sand’ dining experience. the menu. Also favoured are refreshing lawn. Kauai Shores offers a variety of room cocktails like the Gilligan’s Girl made with ■ kauaishoreshotel.com

50 | WWW.TRAVELTALKMAG.COM.AU HAWAII Trump Waikiki: Oahu’s first and only Forbes five-star hotel

TRUMP INTERNATIONAL Hotel Waikiki is the Hotel guests enjoy the best of both worlds options. Guests receive daily complimentary perfect respite for your next romantic vacation with five-star service, as well as residential-style beach chair, umbrella and beach bag service or family getaway in Hawaii. accommodations that comfortably sleep up stocked with bottled water, fresh fruit and A firm favorite with travelers, the property to eight people. Modern quarters offer Italian towels. Complimentary children and infant has been rated the #1 hotel in Waikiki by marble bathrooms, fully equipped kitchenettes amenities, including safety-proofing of a TripAdvisor for 76 consecutive months. It is also in guest rooms, as well as gourmet kitchens guest room, infant cribs and strollers, can the first and only hotel on the island of Oahu with premium appliances, separate living also be provided on request. to be given a five-star rating by Forbes Travel rooms and washer/dryer units in spacious Other amenities include twice-daily Guide for three consecutive years (2015, 2016 suites. For the ultimate convenience, guests housekeeping, private in-suite chef upon and 2017). will also enjoy 24-hour room service and request, complimentary TravelFit service for The hotel is less than a two-minute walk signature Trump Attaché program. work out apparel, pre-loaded iPod and yoga from the famous shores of Waikiki and is Trump Waikiki also has an infinity pool mats , as well as complimentary Wi-Fi and part of the Waikiki Beach Walk development, and expansive lanai deck, The Spa at Trump, use of 24-hour business center with PC and offering world-class shopping, dining and 24-hour state-of-the-art fitness center and Apple computers, and printer. entertainment. world-class indoor and al fresco dining ■ trumphotels.com/waikiki

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TRAVELTALK 628 MAY 2017 | 51 HAWAII

Pictures courtesy Hawaii Food & Wine Festival

LAUNCH CELEBRATION PROMISES A BIG BANG

FARMS, FOOD and fireworks headline the “We’re delighted to be the host resort for will also sail the Waianae Coast onboard launch of the Hawaii Food & Wine Festival the second consecutive year of the festival’s the canoe Nā Kama Kai (‘Child of the Sea’) (HFWF), the world-class epicurean event that launch program,” said Gerald Glennon, and showcase the foods that ancient and showcases local ingredients. General Manager, The Kahala Hotel & Resort. modern navigators prepared on their The official countdown to HFWF17 “The Kahala offers the perfect setting voyages. Chef Mark Noguchi will be the will ramp up with the second annual for unique culinary experiences and will guide. May 30. ‘Connoisseur’s Culinary Journey’ from May 29 commence the 2017 HFWF season with a ■ A ‘Got Poke’ champagne brunch at The to June 2. The immersive five-day exploration spectacular fireworks show. We’re proud Kahala where guests will learn how to of farming, food and cuisine in the islands will to support an amazing organisation that make poke with Chef Lee Anne Wong be hosted by Hawaii’s top chefs and end with contributes greatly to the Hawaiian culture, before enjoying brunch prepared by Chef a bang: food and fireworks under the stars at sustainability and educational programs.” Wayne Hirabayashi. May 31. The Kahala Hotel & Resort. Culinary Journey highlights include: ■ A culinary journey to Kauai’s North Shore “It’s exciting to return to our roots with ■ A private welcome reception at The Kahala with Chef Roy Yamaguchi for a once- another culinary journey that honours with Executive Chef Wayne Hirabayashi, in-a-lifetime visit to a taro family farm our deep connection to everything that’s Mark “Gooch” Noguchi, Lee Anne Wong that’s more than 100 years old. You’ll grown, raised and caught locally,” said and Roy Yamaguchi. May 29. also experience ‘Poi Day’ at the ahupua‘a Denise Yamaguchi, Chief Executive Officer ■ A tour of Hoa ‘Āina O Mākaha, a non-profit of Waipa, tour a rice mill museum and of HFWF. “This is an opportunity to show in a educational learning centre, with a tasting enjoy a special dinner prepared by Chef meaningful way our mission to taste our love of local goods grown at ‘The Farm’, as it is Yamaguchi at a surprise location. June 1. for the land.” known by locals. Take a culinary voyage ■ Hawaii Food & Wine Festival launch event, Presented by The Kahala Hotel & Resort aboard E Ala (‘Awake’) a double-hulled ‘Cuisines of the Sea’, at The Kahala with a and Kamehameha Schools, the Connoisseur’s vessel built to revive the art of canoe- fireworks finale. June 2. Culinary Journey is limited to just five building on the Waianae Coast. Guests “This is a privilege for us to highlight the couples.

WHAT’S IT ALL ABOUT? the state’s bounty of local produce, seafood, beef and poultry. THE HAWAII Food & Wine Festival features In six years, HFWF has expanded from a roster of more than 100 internationally a three-day festival with 30 chefs in renowned master chefs, culinary Waikiki to a two-week culinary celebration personalities and 50 wine and spirit spanning three islands (Maui, Hawaii producers. Island and Oahu) that attracts nearly Co-founded by two of Hawaii’s own 8,000 attendees. The festival has raised award-winning chefs, Roy Yamaguchi and almost $US1.7 million (approx. $2.26m) Alan Wong, the festival showcases wine for community organisations that support The official festival launch on June 2 is also tastings, cooking demonstrations, one- sustainability, culinary programs and open to the public and tickets are priced at of-a-kind excursions and exclusive dining agriculture. This year’s event takes place $US175 (approx. $AU232) per person. opportunities with dishes highlighting from October 20 to November 5. ■ To purchase tickets, visit: HFWF.me

52 | WWW.TRAVELTALKMAG.COM.AU HAWAII

A New Day Dawns

Each day at The Kahala we are grateful for the opportunity to make your stay unforgettable. The Spirit of Aloha has never been greater at The Kahala. We can’t wait to share it with you. abundant and rich cultural and community resources on the Waianae Coast,” said Kalei Kailihiwa, Regional Director for Waianae, Kamehameha Schools. “We’ve witnessed the successful results of a community coming together to share resources and promote sustainable practices, including food production. Community success and how it affects the well-being of those who live on this coast is an important story to tell.” The exclusive Connoisseur’s Culinary Journey is offered at $US6,995 (approx. $AU9,278) plus tax per couple. The journey includes a five-night stay in an ocean view room at The Kahala, chef guided tours, memorable meals, ground transportation and airfare to Kauai. ■ To view the complete itinerary and to purchase tickets, visit: HFWF.me

Picture courtesy The Kahala Hotel & Resort

Time is precious. Spend it graciously.

Stay where the stars stay THE KAHALA Hotel & Resort is an oceanfront, destination luxury property known for its gracious Hawaiian hospitality. Located just minutes from Waikīkī, the property has been Honolulu’s social address for weddings and gatherings since its opening in 1964. World leaders, royalty, rock bands and Oscar winners call the 338- room resort their Hawaiian home-away-from-home. The resort is home to The Kahala Spa, tropical gardens and a natural ocean-water lagoon with the hotel’s own resident dolphins 1.800.367.2525 cared for by Dolphin Quest. The Kahala also has five restaurants: KahalaResort.com Plumeria Beach House, Seaside Grill, The Veranda, Arancino and the award-winning Hoku’s restaurant. ■ kahalaresort.com

TRAVELTALK 628 MAY 2017 | 53 USA

THE DREAM BECOMES REALITY FOR AMERICAN AIRLINES AMERICAN AIRLINES has announced plans and New Zealand, American Airlines, said: Business class features fully lie-flat to introduce a new aircraft to service its “As part of our commitment to providing ‘Super Diamond’ seats with direct aisle trans-Pacific route between Sydney and our customers with a world-class product access, premium onboard dining with Los Angeles. and travel experience, American Airlines a chef-inspired menu including choices Starting on November 8, American Airlines’ will introduce Premium Economy to the of award-winning wines for food pairing Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner will commence Sydney – Los Angeles route which it has and a Cole Haan-branded amenity kit service between the two cities, replacing the served since December 2015; making it containing products from C.O. Bigelow, Boeing 777-300ER. The move will not only the first U.S. carrier to do so. 3Lab and Clark’s Botanicals. American also offer customers a brand new aircraft, but a “Premium Economy is an increasingly offers business class customers Bose noise- new class of service, Premium Economy. popular option for customers who want reducing headphones and large screens to Introduced to the carrier’s fleet at the an elevated experience on their journey better enjoy the airline’s extensive in flight end of 2016, the Boeing 787-9 is American’s to Los Angeles and beyond.” entertainment options. newest aircraft type. It includes main cabin The Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner is a state-of- Premium Economy offers leather seats extra, the airline’s latest business class the-art aircraft which features electrically with 38 inches of pitch, more legroom, suite with all-aisle-access and the carrier’s dimmable windows, larger overhead wider seats and expandable foot, leg and newest class of service, Premium Economy. storage space, a cabin air system that head rests. Enhanced meals are served American Airlines currently have six 787-9 provides improved altitude, humidity levels with complimentary wine, beer and spirits. aircraft in their entire fleet, flying mainly and air filtration with reduced noise levels in Customers receive amenity kits and noise- international routes. the cabin. The Boeing 787-9 has 285 seats in reducing headphones and an enhanced Simon Dodd, General Manager, Australia total, 59 seats more than the Boeing 787-8. pillow and blanket.

ABOUT AMERICAN 6,700 AIRLINES flights per day AMERICAN AIRLINES and American Eagle offer an average of nearly 6,700 flights per day to nearly 350 destinations in more than 50 countries. From Los Angeles alone, they 5o fly to 52 destinations within the U.S., or have 220 flight countries connections a day. American has hubs in Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas/Fort Worth, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Philadelphia, Phoenix, and Washington, D.C. American is a founding member of the oneworld® alliance, whose nearly members serve more than 1,000 destinations with about 35 14,250 daily flights to more than 150 countries. destinationso

54 | WWW.TRAVELTALKMAG.COM.AU USA

Fly to the U.S. with the people who know it best Here, we talk to Simon Dodd, General aircraft to our fleet, the Boeing 787-9 Manager, Australia and New Zealand, Dreamliner. This aircraft offers the very best in customer experience and we’re proud American Airlines, about their latest to be the first U.S. carrier to introduce announcement and get some tips on Premium Economy to the Australian where to visit in the USA. market. : Why is the Australian market so :What can Aussie customers expect Q important to American Airlines? Q from the new premium economy :As the largest airline in the world, class? A American is committed to providing Premium Economy has a number of service to destinations to where our A upgraded features, including leather customers tell us they need to travel. seats, 38 degrees of pitch, more legroom, Simon Dodd, General Manager, Australia Australia is a major market in the Asia Pacific foot, leg and head rests, with more space and New Zealand, American Airlines. region and it’s important for us to provide and ways to relax, enhanced meals, amenity leisure and corporate customers access to kits and noise-reducing headphones you feel like you’re on a private jet. our hub in Los Angeles and beyond. to enjoy your onboard and personal : Do you see room for further : Competition among airlines is pretty entertainment, and an enhanced pillow Q expansion between America and Q fierce. What puts American ahead of and blanket for a great night’s rest. Australia? their rivals? : For someone who may not have We have been pleased to introduce :When we launched our flights from Q thought about flying American A choice and competition to the A Sydney, we took a fresh look at the before, what can they expect? Australian and New Zealand markets in the passenger’s journey to Los Angeles and American has daily flights from Sydney last year and a half. While we constantly beyond and redesigned menus in all cabins A and Auckland to Los Angeles. Once evaluate new route opportunities, we don’t and introduced pyjamas and mattresses for in Los Angeles, customers have access have anything further to announce today. to nearly 220 daily departures and 55 our customers travelling in business. : Finally, where are some of the places destinations worldwide. All our in flight Our Boeing 777-300ER offers all aisle access, you like to visit in America? entertainment is free and we have the Q fully flat beds in both business and first I love Los Angeles, I find something and we offer Wi-Fi to passengers across the largest library of any U.S. carrier including movies, TV shows, music and games. A new and amazing about the city each Pacific. We have been working closely with time I visit. Our head office is in Dallas, our travel agency partners to ensure we For customers travelling from Los Angeles and San Francisco to New which is an incredible city – with some of have innovative fare options to leverage our the best food I’ve had! My sister has lived in global network. York, we offer our award-winning A321 transcontinental aircraft. We are the only South Carolina and Virginia for the last few : How excited are you about airline with three classes of service on years and it has been fantastic to visit her Q American’s new Dreamliner coming transcontinental flights. Customers can in new parts of the USA. Miami is great with to Australia? enjoy more in flight entertainment, greater beautiful beaches and finally you can’t beat From November this year, we’ll connectivity and comfortable seats in every a trip to New York – an incredible city. A introduce to Australia the newest cabin. Plus, the first class cabin will make ■ aa.com TRAVELTALK 628 MAY 2017 | 55 USA VIDEO PROMOTES FRIENDSHIP IN THE CITY OF ANGELS

DISCOVER LOS Angeles has launched “As one of the planet’s most diverse metro welcomed 430,000 Aussies in 2016, becoming #everyoneiswelcome, a multi-million dollar areas, Los Angeles is uniquely poised to the second largest overseas market following initiative to demonstrate these values and launch such a campaign.” China. the city’s dedication to diversity among its A recent study of projected visitation Discover L.A. has also released a new culture. numbers showed that L.A. County could video on its social channels, which provides People from 140 countries who speak more suffer a potential three-year loss of 800,000 a visual metaphor of paper planes, than 224 different languages currently call international visitors. These visitors typically embodying countries around the world L.A. home and it is one of only two U.S. cities spend $US920 (approx. $AU1,225) each while ‘flying’ into Los Angeles. Featuring 16 without a majority population. in L.A., totalling a potential loss of $US736 different locations, the film takes viewers on “Diversity and inclusivity have always been million (approx. $AU980 million) in direct a journey through the streets and shores of cornerstones of Los Angeles culture, but tourism spending. Los Angeles. there has never been a more crucial time to Los Angeles welcomed 47.3 million To watch the video, head to youtube and reinforce these points,” said Ernest Wooden Jr., visitors last year in a sixth consecutive year of type in #EveryoneIsWelcome President and CEO for Discover Los Angeles. record-breaking tourism. The destination also Images courtesy Discover Los Angeles.

sized steaks. Check out Jester Five must-visit King Brewery in Austin; an authentic farmhouse brewery spots for some that uses unusual ingredients like figs and juniper berries to create beers & cheers unique flavours in their beers. Portland, Oregon SIP YOUR way through the home grown 4Portland is proudly known as flavours of America in one of these five ‘Beervana’ and has more than U.S. destinations leading the craft beer 70 breweries. Portland brews revolution. everything from classic European San Diego, California styles to fruit beer and sour 1San Diegan’s take beer seriously (in beer. This city is so passionate a laid-back sort of way). San Diego’s about the stuff it has nearly as dramatic rise as a craft beer capital many beer festivals as it does has added an exciting element to breweries! the community, with more than 130 2009. One of the notable beer brands Vermont, New England breweries, plus brew pubs and tasting is the eco-friendly brewery Uinta. This 5Vermont has more craft breweries rooms scattered across the county. 100 per cent solar-and wind-powered per capita than any other state Salt Lake City, Utah production brewery lets visitors sample so plan your route, pick up a beer 2This might seem like an unlikely a selection of its 20-plus quality brews. ‘passport’ and take the Vermont contender for a top U.S. beer Austin, Texas Brewery Challenge. Get a stamp destination, but it’s been building 3Meat and beer go together, so it’s no on each visit to a brewery. The a serious repertoire of world- surprise that Texas is almost as famous more stamps, the better the prize! renowned craft breweries since for its beer scene as its outrageously ■ visittheusa.com.au

56 | WWW.TRAVELTALKMAG.COM.AU USA VIDEO PROMOTES FRIENDSHIP IN THE CITY OF ANGELS

AGENTS CAN START DREAMING OF CALIFORNIA TRIPS

EXCITE HOLIDAYS have just launched their the best to help agents design the trip of a do is make a paid California booking before six-week ‘45 Days of California Dreaming’ lifetime for their clients. June 4 and they will automatically go into the campaign aimed at travel agents across The focus of the campaign is to show the draw to win a prize that same day. In addition, Australia. variety of activities and experiences on offer for every room night booked in California In collaboration with Visit California, to travellers when they visit California. It is a during the campaign period, agents will also Excite will take agents on a journey through family-friendly destination, yet also perfect receive double rewards points. the Golden State. From West Hollywood to for those wanting a relaxing getaway or A designated page with all the Orange County, San Francisco to the North even one that gets the adrenaline pumping. information agents need to book a Coast and San Diego to Palm Springs, the Excite wants to get agents excited about dream holiday in California for their trip will cover surf and snow, city and desert, California and make it a destination that is clients can be found at: and everything in between. top mind for travellers who have never been exciteholidays.com/engage/California When it comes to shopping, restaurants, before, as well as those who have. family fun, entertainment, culture and the Excite is also offering a California-inspired outdoors, Excite have picked out the best of prize every day for 45 days. All agents have to

Wrapping up in Oregon A GROUP of travel agents and tour operators from nine countries, including Australia, gathered in Oregon recently for a seven-day road trip of the state. The famil was an opportunity for the 27-strong group to gain further knowledge of the destination in the hope of getting expanded itinerary development beyond the traditional USA gateways as consumers look to new destinations to explore. The trip began and ended in Portland with agents testing the famous Portland craft beer, undertaking coffee tours and experiencing the Maker Community the city is known for. Agents then visited the mountain regions of Mt Hood and Bend, the Crate Lake National Park as well as the Oregon Coast before ending in the Willamette Valley. ■ TravelOregon.com

TRAVELTALK 628 MAY 2017 | 57 IRELAND SALLY’S LOCAL KNOWLEDGE Here, SALLY CREEGAN, Trafalgar Travel Director, reveals her five hidden Irish treasures, including pubs, parks and the best homemade scones. 43 UNIQUE ITINERARIES ringed by the Wicklow Mountains. The tower With more options, you will find the perfect tour for stands proudly in the middle of a ruined your clients travelling to Ireland, England, Scotland and Christian monastery dating back to the sixth Unique Wales. Our tours earn 94% customer satisfaction rating! century. The landscape which surrounds this tower is so beautiful and I can’t think of a EARN MORE ON EVERY TOUR YOU SELL better spot for a little lesson in Irish history. Practically everything is included on a CIE Tours’ Famine memorial, Ennistymon holiday – entry fees, daily breakfast, most dinners, A kilometre or so outside the town 4 Authentic entertainment and tours. of Ennistymon is a memorial erected to commemorate a young boy. He was GUARANTEED BEST GUIDES left outside the workhouse gate with Nancy Hand’s pub on Our certified, professional guides are local with 1 Parkgate Street, Dublin a note pinned to his torn ragged shirt extensive experience escorting travellers around You simply can’t visit Ireland without stating that his mother had just died Inclusive Ireland and Britain. stepping foot inside a traditional Irish pub and if they didn’t take this orphan in and this is my all-time favourite. It is full of he too would surely die as well. architectural gems salvaged through the Guests are always touched when I recall this Ireland & Britain’s #1 Tour Operator years and the atmosphere is always electric. St Patrick’s Park, Dublin tragic story and it highlights some of the Contact your travel agent, call Sit down with a pint of Guinness, This is a beautifully maintained park most poignant moments in the history of 3 1800 502 911 or visit order from the menu and I guarantee and it’s great to escape to a nice patch of my country which shouldn’t be forgotten. within minutes you’ll be engrossed in greenery when you’ve tired of the hustle www.cietours.com conversation with some of the friendly and bustle of the city. Take a stroll and in 1902 when Cecil Guinness developed a locals. There’s nothing quite like Irish find the small stone which marks the spot public housing scheme beside the Cathedral. “We had a wonderful time! Our tour guide, Brian was wonderful. hospitality and you’ll find plenty of it here. where St. Patrick baptised locals to the You’ll find other stones and engravings He kept us all entertained with songs, stories (lots of stories), Christian faith with water from a well. dedicated to people who knew the park well. jokes, and history. The accommodations were fantastic as was The round tower at Glendalough, The dried out well was then discovered ■ trafalgar.com the food and, of course, the beautiful Irish countryside! 2County Wicklow A return trip to Ireland is definitely on my bucket list!” I love taking guests to this perfect round – Maryann & Ken tower in Ireland, it’s one of my favourite Cupan Tae, Galway Irish Explorer, Oct 2016 historical monuments and a little known gem 5It doesn’t take a genius to tucked away in rural Ireland. It was used as a work out what the name of this bell tower, look-out tower, storage facility and café translates to – cup of tea! beacon so it has a really interesting history. And that’s exactly what You can find it in the glaciated valley of you should order when you Glendalough which boasts two lakes and is arrive, along with one of their sumptuous homemade scones or cakes. The service is really traditional with fine china, lace table cloths and that 70s favourite, the doily! After a day spent exploring the cobbled streets of Galway and listening to the buskers, this is the perfect spot to kick back in.

Hit the highlights with Insight Vacations 1. Step behind the scenes of Game of Road, The Iron Islands and Stormlands. Thrones at Ballygally Castle in Atrim, 2. Feel like a prince or princess with a visit where some of Season 6 was filmed. This to Ashford Castle for the ultimate grand 17th century castle was used to represent Irish hospitality. Dating back to 1228, the everything from Winterfell to the King’s castle recently underwent a $75 million restoration and guests will be greeted by a traditional piper upon arrival. 3. For the ultimate beer experience, visit the famous Guinness Storehouse and get an exclusive after-hours tasting on Insight’s seven-day ‘Focus on Ireland’ escorted journey. trails. Having previously won ‘Best 4. Visit the picturesque countryside town Kept Town’ in Ireland, you can imagine

of Killarney (pictured left) with a hike just how scenic this Irish town is. Ballycastle, Co. Antrim over wooded paths and lakeshore ■ insightvacations.com

58 | WWW.TRAVELTALKMAG.COM.AU 43 UNIQUE ITINERARIES With more options, you will find the perfect tour for your clients travelling to Ireland, England, Scotland and Unique Wales. Our tours earn 94% customer satisfaction rating!

EARN MORE ON EVERY TOUR YOU SELL Practically everything is included on a CIE Tours’ holiday – entry fees, daily breakfast, most dinners, Authentic entertainment and tours. GUARANTEED BEST GUIDES Our certified, professional guides are local with extensive experience escorting travellers around Inclusive Ireland and Britain.

Ireland & Britain’s #1 Tour Operator Contact your travel agent, call

1800 502 911 or visit www.cietours.com

“We had a wonderful time! Our tour guide, Brian was wonderful. He kept us all entertained with songs, stories (lots of stories), jokes, and history. The accommodations were fantastic as was the food and, of course, the beautiful Irish countryside! A return trip to Ireland is definitely on my bucket list!” – Maryann & Ken Irish Explorer, Oct 2016

Ballycastle, Co. Antrim CANADA

Le Chateau Frontenac

GET IN QUICK FOR A BARGAIN BUY APT ARE offering never-to-be repeated pricing south to Seattle, where they will embark on on seven select tours contained within their a seven-night Holland America Line cruise Canada, Alaska and USA 2018 touring season. of the Inside Passage, taking in the Glacier Pre-release Superdeals, including Bay National Park, the Alaskan Capital of companion fly free, business class from Juneau and the Russian influenced Sitka and $5,995 and premium economy from $2,595 Ketchikan, the gateway to the Misty Fjords Edward Island, en route to Boston. air deals, are all on offer for bookings made National Monument wilderness. Throughout the itinerary, APT Signature before May 18. For agents with clients eager to journey Experiences, such as a special dinner During this period APT is also offering further into Alaska, the 26-day ‘Rockies with overlooking Niagara Falls and an after-hours a best price guarantee, which means Alaska by Sea & Land’ itinerary, priced from tour and breakfast at Vancouver Island’s departures will not be available at these $15,595 per person twin share, takes in Butchart Gardens, help to enrich guests’ special prices once the pre-release booking Alberta and British Columbia before cruising understanding of this vast land. period finishes. the Inside Passage up to Whittier and visiting Tour groups are limited to 40 people and Among the itineraries in the new Canada the Denali (Mt McKinley) National Park. guests are guaranteed a verandah stateroom & Alaska Featuring USA 2018 pre-release For those looking east, the 18-day ‘Eastern on Holland America Line and Princess Cruises. brochure, the 18-day ‘Rockies Highlights Canada & New England Cruise’, priced from Guests to Banff, Jasper and Lake Louise stay & Alaska Cruise’ is priced from $11,395 per $11,095 per person twin share, commences in Fairmont Collection properties and are person twin share. Guests on this western in Toronto and includes a land tour of Niagara guaranteed a lakeview room at the Fairmont Canada favourite will take in Banff, Jasper and Falls, Ottawa, Quebec City and Montreal Chateau Lake Louise. Lake Louise before continuing their journey before guests embark on the Holland APT’s Canada & Alaska 2018 prices are through the Rockies and across to Vancouver America Line’s ms Veendam. fully-inclusive, with transfers, port charges, on the Rocky Mountaineer, on which they From here guests spend seven nights gratuities, sightseeing as detailed on each enjoy GoldLeaf Service. cruising through the picturesque Maritime itinerary and most meals taken care of. After two nights in Vancouver guests head province of Nova Scotia, including Prince ■ aptouring.com.au

Canada makes it to number one CANADA HAS been ranked at number 1 on the list of ‘52 Places to Go’ this year, an annual survey of top travel destinations compiled by the travel editors at The New York Times. The country, which celebrates its 150th anniversary of Confederation this year, placed ahead of Chile, India, Switzerland and Botswana, who rounded out the top five destinations. “With the favourable exchange rate close to parity with the Australian dollar, it’s little wonder Canada saw record numbers of Aussie travellers arriving on its shores in 2016,” said Donna Campbell, Managing Director, Destination Canada GSA. “Australians are keen to explore the lesser-known parts of Canada, its cosmopolitan cities, historic Maritime provinces, and epic wilderness. We expect an even greater increase in visitors to the country in 2017.” ■ keepexploring.com.au Ziplining, New Brunswick

60 | WWW.TRAVELTALKMAG.COM.AU BEST RIVER CRUISE BEST INTERNATIONAL BEST DOMESTIC OPERATOR TOUR OPERATOR TOUR OPERATOR 2015-2016 2014-2015 2012-2016

Inspiring landscapes from all angles

Pure mountain air, crystal clear lakes and soaring mountains do wonders for your spirit. So too do the iconic hotels, epic Glacier Bay Skagway train journeys, premier cruise ships, fine dining and five-star Juneau service of an APT Canada and Alaska holiday. Sitka Tracy Arm ALASKA Your unforgettable holiday with APT includes: • A Verandah Stateroom on your Holland America Line Ketchikan CANADA Inside Passage cruise featuring Glacier Bay Queen • Two-day Rocky Mountaineer rail journey in GoldLeaf Service Charlotte BRITISH COLUMBIA ALBERTA Islands • Iconic luxury hotels and resorts, including a guaranteed 7 Lakeview Room at Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise Holland Jasper America Line 2 Jasper National Park Rockies Highlights and Alaska Cruise Athabasca Glacier 2 Lake Louise 18 days from $12,995* pp twin share Vancouver Vancouver 1 Island Companion Fly Free* 2 Kamloops 2 Ban Ban National Park 1 Victoria SEATTLE CALGARY

EXCLUSIVE PRE-RELEASE PRICES* UT18LWCS

Visit aptouring.com.au/Canada2018 or call 1300 371 218 or see your local travel agent

*Conditions apply. SEE: aptouring.com.au/SpecialDeals for full conditions. Prices are per person (pp), AUD, twin share and include port charges. Prices are correct as at 12 April 2017. Prices based on UT18LWCS: 2 May 2018. Prices are based on a Verandah Stateroom on Holland America Line cruises. ALL OFFERS: Limited seats on set departures are available and are subject to availability. DEPOSITS: A first non-refundable deposit of $1,000 pp is due within 7 days of booking.ATAS accreditation #A10825. Australian Pacific Touring Pty Ltd. ABN 44 004 684 619. APT5590

APT5590.indd 1 12/04/2017 1:25 PM CRUISEtalk 16-day itinerary on Myanmar’s Irrawaddy Avalon Siem Reap River. The new cruises are included in Avalon Waterways’ new 2018 program which also features an expansion of the cruise line’s popular Active Discovery cruises in Europe to include sailings on the Rhine. The new eight-day cruises depart alternately from Frankfurt and Amsterdam and feature a variety of engaging excursions, from a hike along Germany’s Rheinsteig to a bike tour along the Rhine and a running tour of Amsterdam. To mark the launch of the 2018 program, Avalon Waterways is offering holiday credit of up to $2,600 per couple on a range of departures in Asia and $2,400 per couple in Europe. Available on bookings until June 6, the credit can be applied in several ways, from international flights to an upgrade on the chosen cruise or the addition of a Monograms city break or coach tour with sister brands Globus and Cosmos. DON’T MISS SAIGON’S “Travel today is all about choice, so we have designed our latest offer to provide our guests with more flexibility and more ASIAN DEBUT IN 2018 options when planning their dream AVALON WATERWAYS has revealed it 2018. The new ship will join sister ship trip,” said Chris Fundell, Globus National will boost its presence in Asia next year, Avalon Siem Reap on the Mekong River, Marketing Manager. introducing a new ship as well as a range of offering weekly departures and a variety of “Whether they want to add on a city stay new itineraries in Vietnam and Myanmar. cruises including two new 18- and 21-day at the end of their cruise, see a bit more of In a move which will double its capacity sailings. the region or simply upgrade their cabin, in Vietnam, the cruise line will launch the As well as the two new Mekong it’s their choice.” 36-passenger Avalon Saigon in September itineraries, Avalon is also introducing a new ■ globusfamily.com

CEREMONY MARKS FIRST PRESENTATION OF NEW SHIP SILVERSEA CRUISES have taken delivery of Genoa, who blessed the ship. The new ship with eight dining venues. of their new ultra-luxury cruise ship, Silver build expands Silversea’s fleet to nine ships. “The attention to detail throughout Muse, following an official ceremony at a Silver Muse will offer guests the the ship is a reflection of our dedication, shipyard in Italy. highest number of large suites (silver, in conjunction with Fincantieri, to offer The 596 passenger vessel was royal, grand and owner’s) in the fleet, the ultimate luxury experience at sea,” presented at Fincantieri’s shipyard in the greatest number of connecting said Roberto Martinoli, CEO at Silversea Sestri Ponente, Genoa. Guests attending suites for families and friends, and more Cruises. the ceremony included the Archbishop restaurants than any other ultra-luxury ■ silversea.com

62 | WWW.TRAVELTALKMAG.COM.AU CRUISEtalk HAVE YOU GOT THE GOLDEN TICKET TO A FREE CRUISE?

VIKING IS giving away seven golden tickets to of 13 days or more, including the ■ Fly free to Europe when you book randomly chosen travel agencies nationwide ‘Grand European Tour’, ‘France’s Finest’, any two 2018 European river cruises back to support the launch of its 2018 river cruise ‘Waterways of the Tsars’ and ‘European to back regardless of duration. brochure. Sojourn’, or fly for $495 on Viking’s ■ Travel with friends and save $600 per Each golden ticket, which can be found shorter river itineraries of eight- to 12- couple when six or more people book any between the brochures, entitles the bearer to days. river cruise of 13 days or more. an eight-day ‘Rhine Getaway’ river cruise for ■ Book now and fly business class for ■ Book any river cruise and receive a two from Amsterdam to Basel (or vice versa) $4,995 per person, valid on Europe and $400 per person discount if you book an on a pre-selected date. Russia itineraries of 13 days or more in ocean cruise within 12 months. The new brochure features destinations veranda stateroom and above departing “We’re excited to launch our 2018 river across Central Europe, France, Portugal, China in March, October and November 2018. brochure and give guests the opportunity and Southeast Asia, including new itineraries For departures between April and to explore the unique Ukrainian itinerary to Ukraine and Egypt. September 2018, add $1,000 per person. that complements the high demand we’re New in 2018, the ‘Kiev to the Black Sea’ ■ Customise your air or break up your seeing for Russia in both our river and ocean itinerary takes guests on an 11-day journey journey on the way to Europe with itineraries,” said Michelle Black, Managing to some of Ukraine’s most historic cities, a stopover for just $250 per person Director Viking Australia and New Zealand. including Zaporozhye, the ancestral home in economy class or $500 per person “We’ve also listened to the consumer and of the Cossacks, and Kherson, which was business class. Guests get a choice of have great flexible air deals across all of our founded in 1778 by order of Catherine the Emirates, Singapore Airlines or Qatar river itineraries.” Great. The tour is priced from $5,395 per Airways. ■ vikingrivercruises.com.au person. Taking guests to one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the 12-day cruise/tour ‘Pathways of the Pharaohs’ explores Luxor, the Valleys of the Kings and Queens, the Temple of Horus in Edfu and the iconic Nile river. It is priced from $6,895 per person. Viking has also recently welcomed two new additions, Viking Hild and Viking Herja, to its fleet of river vessels. Viking Hild will sail the Rhine on the company’s ‘Paris to the Swiss Alps’ itinerary and later this year both new ships will sail the popular ‘Danube Waltz’ and ‘Rhine Getaway’ itineraries. Viking also has a number of early bird offers available on bookings made by June 30. ■ Book now and save $2,000 per couple on any 2018 river cruise. ■ Book now to fly free on river itineraries

TRAVELTALK 628 MAY 2017 | 63 CRUISEtalk guests to connect with locals for enriching travel moments, both on land and at sea.” Azamara Quest will arrive Down Under late in 2018, making her way from Singapore around Australia’s West Coast to Perth. She’ll then offer her first ever cruise from Perth, departing on December 22 for a 15-night ‘Christmas and New Year’s Eve’ voyage to Melbourne, which will include three-nights docked in Sydney for one of the world’s best New Year’s Eve celebrations. Highlights of the ship’s 2019 Australia season include her first ever voyage from Melbourne, a 16-night ‘Australia & New AZAMARA PROMISING MORE Zealand’ voyage to Auckland departing January 6. She’ll also undertake a 14-night FIREWORKS DOWN UNDER ‘Australia & New Zealand’ sailing from Sydney to Auckland departing February 7. AZAMARA CLUB Cruises has unveiled Island nature reserve in New Zealand. Azamara is also offering a variety even more comprehensive Australian “We are confident that our growing of Alaskan experiences through 11 itineraries for 2019, including the line’s number of first-time and millennial cruisers, voyages each spanning eight- to 10-days very first Melbourne departure. along with repeat customers, will find between May and September of 2019. The 2019 itineraries are set to feature a that the new itineraries offer the type The line’s new Alaska voyages will feature record 250 ports of call, with 45 maiden of personalised and unique experiences more time in port with many late night ports, 69 countries, 94 overnight stays and they seek,” said Larry Pimentel, President stays, allowing night time experiences 145 late night stays. Other new offerings and CEO of Azamara Club Cruises. in the Land of the Midnight Sun. will include Azamara’s first-ever sailings to “With the new itineraries, we are Itineraries will feature a combination Alaska, nine special events voyages, nine continuing to build upon our ‘Stay Longer, of marquee ports, as well as unique country intensive voyages, plus maiden Experience More’ brand positioning, with and out-of-the-ordinary ports. calls to Gisborne, Nelson and the Stewart more onshore opportunities that allow ■ azamaraclubcruises.com

There just ain’t nothing like a Dame to christen your Super Ship DAME JOAN Collins was on hand to christen the latest Super Ship from the Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection at a ceremony in Paris recently. Following its launch by the ship’s godmother, the much anticipated S.S. Joie de Vivre set sail on its maiden voyage along the Seine River and through Dame Joan Collins does the honours, Northern France along Uniworld’s christening the S.S. Joie de Vivre ‘Paris & Normandy’ itinerary. “We are delighted to welcome the S.S. ship before its inaugural journey.” authentic French supper club experience. Joie de Vivre to our impeccable fleet of Farm-to-table cuisine and local The ship has two royal suites, eight floating boutique luxury hotels, as the wines are served throughout the ship’s junior suites and 54 staterooms for a first of Uniworld’s Super Ships to sail culinary venues, including Restaurant Le maximum capacity of 128 guests. With the renowned Seine River,” said Ellen Pigalle, Salon Toulouse and Le Bistrot. a length of 125 metres, the ship can Bettridge, President and CEO of Uniworld. Le Cave des Vins offers an intimate conveniently dock in the heart of Paris and “Our company has brought travellers venue for an exclusive hands-on dining sailings in 2017 run until December 27. to France for more than 70 years and experience. Guests select fresh ingredients The S.S. Joie De Vivre joins the we are thrilled to introduce a new, and prepare a seven-course meal with Uniworld fleet, which features all- enticing way to experience the country. the ship’s onboard chefs, with French inclusive itineraries in Europe as well as Godmother Dame Joan epitomises the wine pairings from the sommelier. voyages in Russia, China, India, Egypt, same ‘joy of living’ philosophy embodied There’s also Club L’Esprit, the on-board Vietnam and Cambodia – a total of 22 by the S.S. Joie de Vivre, and we are spa and wellness venue, and a pool which at rivers in 26 countries worldwide. honoured to have had her christen the night transforms into Claude’s, offering an ■ uniworld.com

64 | WWW.TRAVELTALKMAG.COM.AU CRUISEtalk

H2O Sculptures and the Royale Promenade on Independence of the Seas NEW SYMPHONY IS MUSIC TO THE EARS ROYAL CARIBBEAN has revealed details Across the continent more than 110 of-call in Rome, Nice, Santorini and Athens. of their 2018 European deployment, European trips are on offer on eight RCL ships, Elsewhere, British favourite Independence headlined by the fleet’s newest ship with Spanish and French landmarks, Italian of the Seas returns to Southampton, Symphony of the Seas, the world’s largest landscapes, Greek legends and Nordic castles offering three- to 14-night voyages and most adventure-filled cruise ship. all featuring. to the Mediterranean and a 14-night The cruise line will introduce a new Symphony of the Seas, the fourth sister adventure to the Canary Islands all from port-of-call for the 2018 summer season ship in the Oasis class, will make her debut Southampton. Following a $US30 million with Holyhead on the Isle of Anglesey in in Barcelona in April 2018 and will spend her (approx. $AU39 million) makeover in Wales, while destinations returning to inaugural summer season sailing the Western 2016, Jewel of the Seas will undertake European itineraries in 2018 after a brief Mediterranean. Also new in 2018, Vision of the seven- and nine-night sailings though the hiatus include Flam, Molde and Skjolden Seas will join Symphony for the season offering Greek Isles and Western Mediterranean. in Norway, and Isafjordur in Iceland. 12-night sailings from Barcelona with ports- ■ royalcaribbean.com.au Aussies urged to look north AUSSIE TRAVELLERS have been urged not to turn their back on Queensland in the wake of Cyclone Debbie that struck the state recently. In an impassioned plea to media and travel agents, Ann Sherry, Executive Chairman of Carnival Australia, said she had just returned from visiting the affected area. “And let me tell you, they are open for business,” she said. “They are just waiting for people to come. The tourism industry in Australian waters and will be based in needs to stand shoulder to shoulder Sydney over the 2018-19 summer season. when these things happen and we need While based Down Under, the ship to keep them in business. Cruising is will undertake 16 cruises to destinations leading the way.” including Fiji, New Zealand and Tasmania as Ms Sherry was speaking at a function well as two Asia voyages between Shanghai where it was announced that Majestic and Sydney, and Sydney and Hong Kong. Princess, the flagship of the line’s fleet, “From her gourmet restaurants to her Stuart Allison and Ann Sherry would be making her inaugural visit to stunning onboard features, Majestic Princess newest, most stylish and most luxurious flag Australia in September 2018. Carrying is nothing short of magnificent,” said Stuart ship to our shores – having just experienced 3,560 guests, Majestic Princess, which Allison, Princess Cruises Vice President her preview voyage I know Australian debuted on a cruise in Italy recently, Australia & New Zealand. cruisers will love all that she has to offer.” will be the largest Princess ship to sail “We’re thrilled to be welcoming our ■ princess.com

TRAVELTALK 628 MAY 2017 | 65 CRUISEtalk

Emerald Lake in British Columbia, Canada

GET A PREVIEW OF SIX OF THE BEST

EVERGREEN TOURS has launched 2018 preview offers on six of the most popular cruise tours in its Canada and Alaska program. Lead in deals start from only $6,465 per person for the 18-day ‘Rockies Explorer’ tour with a two-for-one airfares offer (conditions apply). Rocky Mountains “Evergreen’s Rockies and Alaska Athabasca Glacier combination has been a bestseller and the feedback from our guests is that they want more!” said Angus Crichton, General stay at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, INCLUSIONS Manager of Evergreen Tours. a sunrise breakfast on Banff’s Sulphur As with all Evergreen’s worldwide cruising and “We are about to take another record Mountain and a cowboy-style dinner in touring programs, the popular ‘You’re invited’ number of guests to Canada for the 2017 Jasper. It is priced from $6,465 per person experiences are complimentary. In Canada and touring season. Our guests are choosing twin share, including two-for-one airfares. Alaska, these experiences can include a home- Evergreen Canada because of its high quality ■  18-day ‘Rockies Grandeur & Cruise’ – visit with an Iditarod (dog sled) champion and and outstanding value. Canada is also includes Rocky Mountaineer rail. It is his furry friends, lunch at a family-run sugar perceived as a very safe destination and the priced from $8,145 per person twin share, shack in Quebec, an authentic ‘Fur Traders Canadian people are very similar to Aussies, including two-for-one airfares. Feast’ at Sun Peaks and a Canadian Rockies relaxed and casual.” ■  22-day ‘Spectacular Rockies & Cruise’ – western-style dinner in Jasper. Due to the phenomenal popularity of includes Rocky Mountaineer Gold Leaf rail. “There is a great up-sell opportunity for Canada worldwide, demand is currently Priced from $11,505 per person twin share, agents by recommending Eastern Canada exceeding supply and pricing for 2018 is including two-for-one airfares. as an add-on while guests are booking the set to increase. Locking in a preview offer ■  24-day ‘Grand Canada & Alaska Cruise Rockies. Evergreen has developed many of provides protection against price rises when Tour’ - includes Rocky Mountaineer and these Rockies with Eastern Canadian tours, Evergreen’s full brochure is released in June. Midnight Sun Express rail. Priced from which makes it easier for an agent to present The 2018 preview offers are available on $10,245 per person twin share, including to a potential guest,” added Crichton. the following cruise tours until May 31: two-for-one airfares. ■ Visit evergreentours.com.au/northamerica for ■  ■  18-day ‘Rockies Explorer and Alaska 25-day ‘Rockies, Alaskan Cruise & Eastern more details. Inside Passage Cruise’ – includes two- Canada’ tour combination – includes an for-one airfares. This was Evergreen’s eight-day Eastern Canada tour. Priced from INFORMATION SESSIONS best-selling tour in 2017. Explore Victoria $10,680 per person twin share, including Evergreen will be holding complimentary and Vancouver, tour Whistler, Sun Peaks, two-for-one airfares. Canada and Alaska information sessions Banff, Lake Louise and Jasper then ■ 18-day ‘Eastern Canada Cruise’ tour – in Brisbane on June 15, Perth on June 20, experience the scenic journey from Jasper includes a seven-night New England cruise Adelaide on June 22, Sydney on June 20, to Vancouver. to Boston, ending with two-nights in New Melbourne on June 27 and in Sydney again on Also included is a seven-night ‘Inside York. From $8,670 per person twin share, June 29. RSVP now at evergreentours.com.au as Passage’ cruise with Holland America, a including two-for-one airfares. places are limited. 66 | WWW.TRAVELTALKMAG.COM.AU NEW 2018 EUROPE RIVER CRUISING Europe DISCOVER THE WORLD BROCHURE – OUT NOW! WITH EVERGREEN

DELUXE RIVER CRUISING & TOURS

2018 What else is new? The new 2018 Europe River Cruising brochure is out now and the new 2018 Experience, quality, value, service and freedom. The same trusted Evergreen Canada & Alaska brochure is coming soon. All other destination brochures values now come with a brand new look. are currently available with new look brochures to follow. Order your brochures from TIFS now! BRAND NEW ‘STAR SHIPS’ Emerald Liberté Sailing the Rhône and Saône Rivers Emerald Radiance & & Sailing the Douro River Europe Canada Vietnam Emerald Destiny Sailing the Rhine, Main & Danube Rivers Alaska Cambodia Take a virtual tour of our award-winning ‘Star Ships’ at evergreentours.com.au/360tour

NEW RIVER CRUISE DELUXE RIVER CRUISING & TOURS DELUXE TOURING & CRUISING IN NORTH AMERICA RIVER CRUISING COMBINATIONS 2018 2018 2018 Rhine and Rhône Our classic 15 day European river cruise

UNIQUE! Portugal and France Explore new rivers on a combined 15 day river cruise

SouthAmerica Africa Tasmania

NEW RIVER & OCEAN CRUISE COMBINATIONS Mediterranean or Baltic Sea From 15 days

Cruising around Norway & the Arctic Circle, ANTARCTICA, GALÁPAGOS & AMAZON CRUISING CLASSIC SAFARIS & NATURAL TREASURES UNSPOILT WILDERNESS • CLASSIC HERITAGE Iceland, or Britain & Ireland! From 22 days 2018 2018 2018

Call 1300 383 747 Visit evergreentours.com.au Call 1300 383 747 Visit evergreentours.com.au

EV3284_TravelTalk_CovWrap.indd 4-5 20/04/2017 3:21 pm Deluxe Europe River Cruising 2018 Earlybird offers out now!

15 day Budapest to Amsterdam from $5,145 pp*

Selling fast 2014 2015 2016 Some sailings already sold out!

Best New Best River Line Best River Line River Ships for Value for Value

YOUR 15 DAY EUROPE RIVER CRUISE INCLUDES: Exclusive!

• Enjoy the newest award-winning ships on the rivers with swimming pool, cinema, complimentary bikes and 24 hour tea and coffee facilities • Complimentary Wi-Fi, flat screen TV with infotainment system, bathrobes and slippers, Pool by day...Cinema by night Award-winning Emerald ‘Star Ships’ individual air conditioning system and bottled water daily • Daily guided tours through 15 cities, towns Deluxe River Cruising has and villages • Unique ‘You’re Invited’ events like a home- hosted afternoon tea with a Slovakian family a New Look with Evergreen • All meals onboard with complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner • All gratuities, tipping, airport transfers, hotel Enjoy complimentary bikes Contemporary dining and ship porterage, port charges and taxes*

*Conditions apply. See ww.evergreentours.com.au for more details and terms & conditions.

Call 1300 383 747 Visit evergreentours.com.au Visit evergreentours.com.au

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