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June 9 2017 | ISSUE NO 2,018 | travelbulletin.co.uk
Australasia Operators capitalise on new non-stop flights to Perth
this week usa puzzle bulletin personality holiday parks 11 bulletin 13 operators, attractions & 15 18 play Su Doku for hoteliers showcase new deals, shows your chance to win find out who’s in the their new products & attractions an Amazon Echo hot seat this week introduced at parks around the UK S01 TB 0906 2017 Start_Layout 1 07/06/2017 12:50 Page 2 S01 TB09062017Start_Layout107/06/201712:50Page3
Cover Pictures: Main - Rob Bayer Inset - Funway Holidays 08 addition, almost 2,000 people collected more thanusing6,000kg local of transport amongst the most popularpledges. madewith In recycling water bottles, reusing hotel towels and willbe able to make this pledge. wishing to support Make Holidays Greener with a beachholiday clean fromeating local food to saying no to plastic.sustainableThose holiday pledges which will cover allaspects of a [email protected] to sign up. theirstaff and customers. Travel companies shouldalsocontact bypledging to organise a clean-up activity inparticipate resortsfor by encouraging customers to make a pledgeraise and awareness of more sustainable holidays. Businessesannual campaign can which will run until August 31 and aims to local communities inholiday destinations. holiday pledges, take careof the local environmentholidaymakers and support and the travel industry to make sustainable partnership with Travelife for Hotels & Accommodations.MAKE Greener HOLIDAYS is returning for 2017, led by ABTA in pledges holiday sustainable ABTAmake Travelifeto & industry encourage 09 03 travelbulletin.co.uk COSMOS’ LARGEST fam programme for 2017 is in full swing where a selection of agents are being taken on a range of tours around the world. So world. the around tours of range a on taken being are agents of selection a where swing full in is 2017 for programme fam LARGEST COSMOS’ far agents have travelled to Thailand, Canada, China, New York and Philadelphia to boost their destination and product knowledge, and more trips more and knowledge, product and destination their boost to Philadelphia and York New China, Canada, Thailand, to travelled have agents far are planned for the coming months. Pictured at the top of the Empire State Building in New York are, from the left: Darren Lenton, Thames Valley Thames Lenton, Darren left: the from are, York New in Building State Empire the of top the at Pictured months. coming the for planned are Travel; Marc Butler, Lincolnshire COOP; Dan Ferguson, Affinion; Anna Hall, Cosmos; and Frank Furneaux, Broadway Travel. Broadway Furneaux, Frank and Cosmos; Hall, Anna Affinion; Ferguson, Dan COOP; Lincolnshire Butler, Marc Travel;
On top of the world… the of top On Last year, morethan 700 sustainable holiday pledges were Holidaymakerstaking partwill be able to chooseone of 15 Travel businesses are being encouragedto join in with the This year’s campaign launched on July 1 and encourages attacks Sandy reflects on the recent terror notes from normanton news & developments a round-up of the latest industry news training events this week’s booking incentives & agent bulletin
This week 13 11 12 brand ambassador from Peru we find out more about G Adventures’ personality bulletin an Amazon Echo with Jet2Holidays play Su Doku for your chance to win puzzle bulletin news & views from AITO bulletin briefing plastic –avoid plastic straws and bagsyour offset holiday; on recycle any packaging at home before you travel;respect say no to local customs; reduce, re-use and recycleproduce; – leave buy localand souvenirs; talk to locals in their languages; holiday pledge.” clean or encouraging their customersto make a sustainableMake Holidays Greener, whether they’re organising a beach tell them about all thefantastic work beingdone in thisthearea. perfect way for the industry to engage with customersthe localand people andeconomy and so Make Holidays Greenerthink travel is companies should ensure thattheir holidayssustainable help holidays. We know that two-thirds (65%)initiative of people and working with the industry to support moresustainability, said:"We’re delighted to be leading this fantastic support local people, businesses and culture. reducing their energy or water consumption,and ensuringthey manage they their environmental and socialimpacts, types such as ofaccommodation, works with hotelsto improveprogrammehow for managing sustainability in hotelsand right other forthem. Additionally, the Travelife certificationwith itsmembers to developsustainability approaches that are rubbish as part of 125 beach cleans in 23 countries. The pledgesare: Organisea holiday clean up; eat local "I would encourage travel businesses to get involved with Nikki White, ABTA's director of destinations and As part of its Better Places programme, ABTA works closely 20 18 15
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bulletin news direct flights following launch of Qantas’ operators capitalise on Perth sales australasia introduced at parks around the UK new deals, shows & attractions holiday parks showcase their new products operators, attractions & hoteliers usa continued on next page next on continued 3 S01 TB 0906 2017 Start_Layout 1 07/06/2017 10:08 Page 4
newsbulletin continued from previous page tell the world about positive holiday experiences and leave carbon; use local transport; switch off electrical devices in an honest travel review; look for the Travelife logo - stay at your accommodation when you’re not using them; save a hotel that cares for the environment and its staff such as water – reuse towels and take shorter showers; protect Travelife certified hotels; and free choice – the chance to children – support local community projects and refrain organise or suggest an activity specific to your holiday. from giving money to begging children or visit orphanages; For more information email [email protected]
Voyages to Antiquity revamps customer loyalty programme VOYAGES TO Antiquity has re- they experience more cruises. continuous evolvement as we add new launched its loyalty programme to Repeat guests can also experience destinations and experiences to the offer additional benefits to further dedicated reunion cruises with Voyages to Antiquity offering. reward long-standing repeat guests. exclusive excursions, invitations to "From November we will offer year- With the repeat guest booking rate exclusive events in the UK and aboard, round cruising, following the sitting at 51% for this year and future cruise discounts, introduction of 12 new culture-focused rising to 72% to date for forward complimentary on board credit, on itineraries across Cuba and the bookings for winter 2017/18, the board upgrades, free luxury leather Caribbean. Whilst the Caribbean line is committed to rewarding its travel wallets and dinner with archipelago may already be a popular loyal following. the captain. cruise destination, our new winter The revamped loyalty programme – Jos Dewing, the line's managing cruises are focused on helping guests The Voyages to Antiquity Odyssey Club director, said: “Our guests are journey beyond the traditional tourist – rewards past guests while incredibly passionate about the brand spots for a more authentic encouraging new guests to repeat and continue to choose to sail with us Caribbean flavour." book and is split into three tiers, with year-on-year. The high guest repeat For more information see guests moving up through the tiers as rate is testament to our brand's voyagestoantiquity.com NEWS BITES
G IN LAST month’s Manchester attack a young travel agent, Chloe Rutherford, lost her life along with her boyfriend, Liam Curry. Chloe worked for Graeme Brett and family at Westoe Travel in South Shields; she was 17 years old and just embarking on her travel career. A Just Giving page has been set up for the families at http://bit.ly/2rX6zcA G BRITISH AIRWAYS is offering flights to Italy's Florence from Birmingham Airport. The inaugural service was the first of the new routes to take off followed by flights to the Spanish sunspots of Malaga, Ibiza and Palma providing more than 17,000 seats to the sun from Birmingham this summer. Flights are operated at weekends by modern Embraer 190 jet aircraft, with fares from £29 one-way available from ba.com G SOFITEL LONDON St James has joined the Clean the World hospitality initiative to donate its soaps and discarded hygiene products to be recycled for humanitarian organisations around the world. After being collected from its 183 guest bedrooms and suites, the items will be hygienically recycled and distributed to shelters for homeless, children and women, as well as to food banks, veteran groups and people struggling due to economic misfortune or natural disaster. G JET AIRWAYS is to launch its third, non-stop, daily service between Heathrow and Mumbai. Effective from October 29, and as part of the airline’s forthcoming winter schedule, the planned departure for 9W 115 - the new daytime service from Heathrow – will be 15:30, with arrival in Mumbai at 05:55, On its return, 9W 116 will PRO AGENTS...The Melia Rio de Nacional in Brazil recently hosted a competition online with Travel Bulletin for agents to win up to £170 depart Mumbai at 09:05 to arrive in Heathrow at 13:35. worth of Love2Shop vouchers, by learning more about the property G SEA LIFTS has launched its summer season with transfers available and the travel agent portal - MeliaPRO. The winners were Larraine Atkin from The Travel Company Edinburgh; Lisa Jankus-Scott from from 18 new airports including Faro, Paris, Olbia, Porto, Bologna Carrick Travel; and Ann Barber from Travel Counsellors. Pictured is and Florence. Visit sea-lifts.com for details. Larraine Atkin who picked up £20 in vouchers.
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Saga introduces two new all-inclusive holidays to Turkey DUE TO growing demand, Saga Holidays is launching two new all- inclusive holidays to Turkey. Both resorts are locally rated five-star, with all meals included as well as a free bar open up to 24- hours a day. In addition there will be New VR experience single rooms available for from Hurtigruten TREETOP TREAT...Peter Kay has cut the ribbon on Manchester’s solo travellers on all new attraction, Treetop Nets. The Bolton born star opened up the departure dates with no HURTIGRUTEN HAS new Heaton Park treetop adventure park in time for half-term to single supplement. launched a virtual reality offer sky-high giant bouncy nets with walkways, slides and The trips also include a experience for agents and tunnels. The attraction's sister attraction, Treetop Trek, which will feature Europe’s longest belay ropes course and more than 20 zip visit to Antalya's guests to trial a selection of wires, is set to open next month to complete the treetop picturesque old town to excursions available on the adventure park. Pictured marking the launch with comedian Peter see its 13th-century brand’s Explorer and Kay (right) is the park's managing director, Mike Turner. For more fluted minaret, the triple Coastal voyages. information visit treetopnets.co.uk or call 01539-447186. arched Hadrian's Gate, The VR experience built in 130AD and the showcases nine unique off- New Lakes & Mountains Summer Hidirik Kulesi tower - board activities in reputed to be a former destinations including the 2018 preview brochure from Inghams Roman lighthouse. Arctic, Antarctica and INGHAMS HAS launched its Lakes & Mountains Summer For travellers that coastal Norway, and the 2018 preview brochure with frozen prices and a range of enjoy a longer break content is captured via early booking offers, saving up to £660 per couple if booked there are also some long drones while 360 cameras before September 30. stay deals, with three bring the destinations to The new brochure features more than 100 European weeks for the price of two life. resorts, cities and tours, including the new Slovenia and from £899 per person or Guests and agents will Austria twin-centre option. Holiday durations are fully four weeks for the price find themselves flexible, with seven, ten and 14-night stays, as well as a of three from £1,099. transported to the remote choice of twin-centre resort combinations, escorted rail Ben Stratton, the wilderness of Antarctica to tours, short breaks and city breaks. company's holiday kayak amongst icebergs, For early bookings, all prices in the preview brochure creator for Turkey, said: feel the Arctic wind whilst have been held at summer 2017 levels and, to help budgets “Turkey is a great galloping on horseback stretch further, the operator has also frozen the prices of destination and it’s across the Norwegian many of its pre-bookable excursions and Swiss walking and fantastic to see that plains or embark on a travel passes to summer 2017 levels, until September 30. holidaymakers are once mountain hike and be The company has also expanded its partner hotel range again keen to travel here. mesmerised by the to include two new properties for summer 2018. As a destination it offers majestic scenery of the The three-star, family-friendly Hotel Pavillon des Fleurs sunshine, culture and Lofoten Islands. on the shores of Lake Annecy, France, is ideal for clients outstanding value for The line's regional sales looking to be active, with prices starting from £819 per money. These are managers will take the VR person for seven nights. not only outstanding experience along with In Austria, the three-diamond Chalet Linda in Kitzbühel hotels - they are also in them to meetings with key offers guests a relaxed base five minutes’ walk from the fantastic locations." travel agents across the village centre, with prices from £559 for seven nights. The properties include UK to educate them on the The new brochure also features an extensive range of the Antedon Hotel in excursion offering. In complimentary extras included in the price of many Kemer with seven nights addition, a selection of VR holidays such as free guided walks in selected resorts; from £399 per person headsets will be available free packed lunches and afternoon tea and cake in all including flights for stays on board ships from late chalets, chalet hotels and many partner hotels; half price between September summer with expedition travel throughout Switzerland; free use of cable-cars, through to April 2018, and teams encouraging guests chairlifts and public transport in many resorts in Austria, the Sentido Parissia with to learn more about the Italy, France and Switzerland; free bike hire in many seven nights from £399 company's adventures. hotels; free walking maps; and no single supplement at including flights for stays For more information visit selected hotels. between September and hurtigruten.co.uk For more information visit inghams.co.uk March 2018.
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Cathay Pacific adds more choice from LGW & MAN Earn with Funway & RESPONDING TO customer demand, two of Cathay Pacific’s routes between the UK and AMResorts Hong Kong have seen a boost in frequency. TO CELEBRATE the new Gatwick has moved to a daily service partnership between whilst Manchester increases to five flights Funway Holidays and per week. The airline's Manchester AMResorts, agents are service will also join Gatwick in becoming being offered the chance to an Airbus A350-900 operation. Both earn more via the routes have previously operated four operator's agent loyalty flights per week. scheme, MoneyCard. From this month, the carrier will operate Throughout this month a total of 47 non-stop flights per week the companies are offering between the UK and Hong Kong seeing double rewards for all Heathrow offering five flights daily, Gatwick package bookings moving daily and Manchester providing five including a stay at an flights weekly. By December, frequency will AMResorts property. further increase to provide a choice of 49 Agents can earn £200 flights weekly, as Manchester joins Gatwick per booking when the to offer a daily flight. booking value exceeds The airline has also reopened its newly £20,000, £100 when the renovated lounge at Heathrow – the only booking value exceeds lounge on its expanding global network introduction of the ultra-efficient A350 on our £10,000-£19,999, £50 when outside of Hong Kong to offer separate Manchester route, underline the deep-rooted the booking value is First and Business Class areas. commitment we have to providing both between £5,000 - £9,999 Paul Cruttenden, the carrier's marketing business and leisure passengers with and £20 per booking when and digital sales manager in the UK, said: “We increased convenience and superior in-flight the booking value is up to are delighted to be increasing our schedule products.” £5,000. from Gatwick and Manchester to Hong Kong. For further information see To sign up for MoneyCard The additional frequencies coupled with the cathaypacific.co.uk visit yourmoneycard.co.uk
Flybe commences new weekend summer sun routes from regional airports FLYBE HAS started operating 11 new routes to regional France and Italy from eight UK airports via its new weekend leisure hub at Southampton. The seasonal flights operate each weekend through to September 3 as part of the airline’s 2017 summer schedule from Aberdeen, Belfast City, East Midlands, Edinburgh, Exeter, Glasgow, Manchester and Newcastle. Operating on Saturdays and Sundays throughout the summer, the majority of routes are new services to some of Europe’s most sought-after holiday destinations - Avignon, Bergerac Dordogne, Bordeaux, Brest, La Rochelle, Limoges, Nantes, Perpignan-Rivesaltes, Rennes, Toulon-Hyères, and Verona (excepting Belfast). The carrier's weekend leisure hub gives regional passengers extra choice and the opportunity to seamlessly connect through Southampton to their final destination with one initial check-in at their departure airport. Full details of the schedule are available at flybe.com
Visit the Far East for less with Finnair FINNAIR HAS launched its flight sale to Asia with the release of extra special Economy and Business Class fares to a variety of destinations. Customers booking by June 20 are offered promotional fares on flights to Asia from the UK via Helsinki, including Beijing, Hong Kong, Bangkok, Singapore and Seoul. Finnair flies from Heathrow, Manchester and Edinburgh to 18 destinations across Asia via Helsinki. As examples of fares, a return flight to Beijing leads in at £419 in Economy Class and from £1,428 in Business Class. Travellers can also travel on the carrier's new direct route to Goa to explore beaches and tropical spice plantations from £1,407 return in Business Class, following its launch on November 29. The special offers are available on bookings made by June HAYS WINNER...TIPTO member James Villa Holidays awards its 20 for travel between September 1 and March 31, 2018. ‘BIG Villa Giveaway’ incentive winner, Victoria Hollings of Hays Travel in Darlington, with vouchers worth £3,000. Pictured with For a full list of sale fares and terms and conditions visit Victoria is Ryan Carroll from James Villa Holidays and Hoseasons. finnair.com
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CLIA reveals Cruise360 location CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association) has revealed details of its inaugural travel agent event Cruise360 which takes place in Copenhagen. Following the theme of ‘Discover Together’ and with a focus on destinations and the industry’s land based experiences, the event will discuss the importance of destination knowledge in cruise sales and review some of the major cruise destinations. Within the conference sessions held on Regal Princess and Norwegian Getaway, the event will welcome some of the JENNA'S JOY...Jenna Anderson from Thomas Cook Eastleigh recently won a four-night, all-inclusive industry’s most prominent stay at the Sandos Cancun Luxury Resort by entering the Sandos Hotels & Resorts’ competition destination experts including online at travelbulletin.co.uk Robin West, the expedition team leader for Seabourn, and Peter Kollar, head of APT returns to Russia with new luxury river cruising in 2018 international training and APT HAS announced the return of its The Russian Waterways itinerary is priced development at CLIA, who Luxury river cruise programme in Russia, from £4,695 per person twin share and will cover ‘Why cruise with two new departures scheduled for includes ten nights on the newly renovated destination knowledge is key August 2018. 182-passenger MS Excellence Katharina to your business’. The 13-day Russian Waterways itinerary and two nights’ land accommodation in St In addition, the will traverse the network of rivers and lakes Petersburg and Moscow. conference will welcome that joins Moscow with St Petersburg, The cruise commences in St Petersburg, industry leaders Stuart allowing guests to discover lavish city where guests visit Catherine Palace, attend Leven (vice president EMEA palaces, country towns and Soviet era a ballet concert at the Hermitage Theatre and managing director RCL remnants alike. and experience an APT Signature Cruises Ltd and chair of Travel agents are invited to pre-register Experience of a before hours tour of the CLIA UK & Ireland); and clients to be the first to receive details of State Hermitage Museum, including a Kyriakos Anastassiadis (CEO the new cruises, which will be available to chance to attend the exclusive Hermitage of Celestyal Cruises and book soon. Peacock Clock ceremony. chair of CLIA Europe). Commenting on the new programme, the From St Petersburg, guests cruise the The inaugural European company's head of sales and commercial, Neva River to Lake Ladoga before moving event will be held in Angela Waite, said British travellers are onto the Svir River. Docking in the village of Copenhagen from intrigued by the idea of visiting Russia and Svirstroy, they visit a local family for September 9-11 and will strong sales for the operator’s Premium traditional pastries and a glimpse into also feature ‘Cruise Sales cruises to the region were a good indication everyday Russian life. Masterclass’ learning that interest in the new luxury departures On Lake Onega, the cruise visits Kizhi programmes, where three of was likely to be high. Island, home to the World Heritage-listed the sessions will also focus She said: “Russia is an exciting 18th century Transfiguration Church, before on ‘destination’. prospect for river cruisers looking for setting sail on the Volga River bound for The Masterclass courses new and exciting destinations to explore. Moscow, where guests visit Red Square, the will provide information and With stunning scenery, fascinating colourful St Basil’s Cathedral, ride the new skills for agents to history, and the comfort and convenience famous Russian Metro and take a WWII enhance their cruise sales. of returning to the river each night, we’ve bunker tour which includes a performance The course themes will experienced increased demand for our from a military choir. include selling destinations, Russia cruises. The itinerary departs August 29, 2018, marketing and sales "Our new luxury cruises will join our and also runs in reverse on August 19, 2018 techniques. already popular premium product in Russia, and includes flights, sightseeing, meals and The main programme allowing agents to offer their clients a drinks, transfers and tipping, a cruise starts on September 9 and choice of styles and departures with the director, local guides and private transfers. concludes on September 11. added peace of mind that they’ll be For further information email For details see travelling with an experienced and trusted [email protected], call 0800-046 cruiseexperts.org operator to the region.” 3002 or see aptouring.co.uk
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newsbulletin Caledonian Sleeper brings Scottish escapes to busy Londoners CALEDONIAN SLEEPER is inspiring busy Londoners to escape the hustle and bustle of their daily lives with an awakening escape to Scotland. The overnight rail service has launched a new campaign which showcases the country’s outdoor experiences. Cycling through the glens of Inverness, kayaking across Loch Lomond, exploring the Cairngorms’ wild landscapes Notes from and hiking over mighty mountains are top of the company's list of Scottish escapes, all of which can be reached via the overnight journey. The service has also partnered with golf holiday package Normanton... company DP&L Golf to offer guests a golf experience to some of Scotland’s most iconic courses. The company provides set itineraries including travel, accommodation, transfers, meals and golf experiences in St Andrews, Inverness and Carnoustie. ELL I think the word I’m looking for is ‘eventful’ - Avoiding the hassle of airport queues, London guests can that is certainly what the last couple of weeks board Caledonian Sleeper at Euston Station before stepping Whave been, starting with the cowardly bombing off the train the next morning in Scotland. of Manchester targeting children (which is a new low) Ryan Flaherty, Serco’s guest experience director at and then the London attack last weekend. Caledonian Sleeper, said: “The spring and summer months It’s times like this when we see a real ‘pulling are one of the best times of year to visit Scotland. With a together’ of people and communities along with the rest direct service to stations across Scotland, guests can travel of the country and the world. Gestures made by other stress-free with their outdoor equipment or golf clubs and countries in support - such as Dubai lighting the Burj maximise their time in the wilderness of The Highlands, the Khalfa up in the shape of the Union Jack - really help mountains of the Cairngorms or on St Andrew’s famous strengthen the ‘sticking together’ attitude and sends a golf courses.” clear message to others that we’re not scared of them. For details or to book visit sleeper.scot and dpandlgolf.com BA...what can I say? They had the chance to change bad into good but totally ignored the opportunity to shine and come out of the huge IT glitch looking good. Instead they failed on customer service, with nearly 600 flights cancelled and 1,000 affected, 6,000 bags left on the tarmac during downpours at Heathrow (the airline was shipping them to Milan to be sorted), and 1,000 had to be trucked across Europe. All the customers were complaining about not being able to find out anything or know what was happening and, to add insult to injury, you had to phone a premium line to find out anything. The Yorkshire Masquerade Ball is on Thursday July 13 • NEW: a seven-night half-board stay, a £100 and I’m totally sold out! I can’t wait, but before that I’m Love2Shop voucher, six bottles of beer or wine all to be WON with The Heritage Le Telfair in looking forward to a quick week in Gouves, Crete. Mauritius For your diaries Wetnose Day will be taking place across the UK on Sept 29 - Oct 1 to help promote the issue of animal welfare and to raise much needed funds • NEW: A £25 restaurant voucher and a £25 Odeon to cover essential food & medical treatments for animals voucher to be won courtesy of A-Rosa River in desperate need in the UK. Some great stars are Cruises & Cosmos supporting it; my favourite Paul O’Grady, Amanda Holden, Paul McCartney, Tom Hardy, Brian May, Joanna Lumley and more - see wetnoseanimalaid.com and • NEW: Win one of three Amazon Echos with please support. SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment! ‘A lion never loses sleep over the opinions of sheep’ and ‘Always believe that tomorrow will be better • Win a three-night all-inclusive stay at the than today’. Marconfort Benidorm Suites, with Shakatak tickets
To respond to any by SANDRA MURRAY of Sandy’s comments email in Normanton, Yorkshire [email protected]
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Booking incentives
G Premier Holidays and Tourism malaysia have unveiled a joint destination marketing campaign to showcase the country’s diverse mix of holiday options. a selection of exclusive tactical offers and multi-centre itineraries for clients to experience the wonders of malaysia, incorporating both city and beach elements, are available during the campaign along with various materials for FUNWAY FAM...Funway Holidays teamed up with agents to promote the offers. For British Airways to offer one agent the chance to win a every inclusive malaysia booking four-night holiday for two to New Orleans, including made, agents are also being flights and accommodation. To enter, agents had to book rewarded with up to £150 in a package holiday to the Deep South, with the winner shopping vouchers, valid in more being Kieran O'Flinn (left) from Grimsby Travel. than 130 High street stores. details at Pictured with Kieran is the operator's business trade.premierholidays.co.uk or development manager, Amy Drummond. call 0844-493 7444.
G For every saga Travel booking made this month agents are being offered £100 in shopping vouchers for every ocean cruise booked and £20 for every holiday. agents will AGENT TRAINING also be entered into a prize draw to win a place on the company's seven-night ‘Best of the West’ Usa G PATA is hosting its latest Quiz Nights in fam trip. To claim the vouchers Newcastle on June 28 and Leeds on June 29. and enter the draw, agents should For details see pata.org.uk email booking details to [email protected] G TRAVEL COUNSELLORS has launched a series of roadshows as a result of an influx G silversea is giving agents from in travel professionals joining the company across the UK the chance to win an this year. Held at eight venues across the amazon echo as part of its UK, attendees can enjoy an array of silversea advocates recognition regionally inspired dishes and drinks at each programme. Ten winning agents will event, from afternoon tea in Exeter to gin be chosen from a shortlist tasting in Edinburgh, as well as meeting with provided by the company's regional a host of representatives and Travel sales managers, with each Counsellors from the company. The submitting agents deserving of roadshows will be held in London, Exeter, recognition based on sales Bristol, Birmingham, Lincoln, Newcastle, performance, marketing promotions Edinburgh and Glasgow throughout June. or attendance at events. details For details call 0808-231 2879 or visit at silversea.com travelcounsellors.com/register
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newsbulletin Avis Budget UK launches Beep one-stop-shop for UK travel trade AVIS BUDGET UK has announced the more rewarding for our valuable launch of a new website for the travel trade partners. trade which brings the company’s Avis “We’re thrilled to launch the new Car Rental and Budget Car Rental portal and look forward to spreading the brands on to the same platform for Beep word at forthcoming trade events convenient, one-stop-shopping for travel including the ITT and ABTA conferences professionals. It also features destination and visiting travel agencies as part of an and driving guides and training tools upcoming merchandising campaign.” for agents. Agents receive commission when they Avis will be bookable on the Beep quality, well-maintained vehicles at make a booking through Beep and there portal so that travel agents can approximately 3,500 locations in more will be monthly incentives and conveniently and quickly offer customers than 120 countries. competitions for agents including the the company's products and services. Avis Budget Group’s appointed UK chance to win an Amazon Echo Budget will also be available through director of travel partnerships, Jeanette every month. Beep, providing agents with Harper, said: “Beep makes the booking For further information see commissionable booking and access to process simpler, more efficient and abgbeep.com
First Choice celebrates holiday memories with new movie-making campaign TO HELP holidaymakers transform their memories this summer, First Choice has launched its ‘All In Productions‘ competition offering four lucky filmmakers the chance to have their movie professionally edited and premiered on the big screen at Vue, as well as the chance to win a family holiday to the operator's Azul Fives by Karisma Resort in Mexico. The competition will also be promoted in Thomson featuring First Choice stores across the UK, with digital screens showcasing inspirational content to encourage holidaymakers to share their best holiday moments. New research conducted by the operator has revealed that with the rise of Instagram’s photo sharing culture, four in ten UK adults admit they are ‘social tourists’ – exploring an average of 14 new countries each year, thanks to the social media feeds of family and friends. Two thirds of UK adults also admit that they have been inspired to travel more widely after seeing and reading about destinations on Facebook and Twitter. The average Brit takes 85 photos when on holiday, a 38% increase on the 62 snaps taken five years ago. Almost a fifth of people admit they have posted photos when on holiday with the sole purpose of inciting ‘FOMO’ (fear of missing out) and making family and friends jealous. The rise of Snapchat and Instagram stories has meant we are a nation of aspiring movie directors – the average holidaymaker now captures nearly 40 minutes of holiday footage, which is almost double the amount of film we were shooting five years ago. Surprisingly, Brits share city landmarks over sunny beaches, with New York voted the top destination shared on social media (42%); however, only 29% of Brits have actually visited the city. The Eiffel Tower is the most photographed landmark, closely followed by the Statue of Liberty and Disneyland in Florida. Jeremy Ellis, the operator's marketing and customer experience director, said: “It’s clear to see that we love capturing memories on holiday, but are still a little shy when it comes to sharing with our family and friends. "Whilst technology has made it easier to capture content, taking the time to edit footage is still a barrier to the perfect holiday film. We want to inspire holidaymakers to make the most of their footage and have created all-in- productions.co.uk to share tips and tricks from experts.” Virgin Atlantic announces biggest GRJ showcases Oberammergau season from Belfast in 2018 itineraries in preview brochure VIRGIN ATLANTIC is increasing the number of flights from GREAT RAIL Journeys has released its 2018 brochure preview Belfast International Airport, as it announces its biggest ever of Europe, UK & Cruising by Rail, including three itineraries in season operating from the city. 2020 taking customers to celebrate The Oberammergau From 2018, the airline’s Belfast to Orlando route will run Passion Play. from March to September, more than trebling the number of The play takes place once every ten years and tells the story seats from the Northern Irish capital to the sunshine state. of the life and death of Jesus Christ. Performances take place The carrier is this year celebrating 25 years of flying from between May and September and the tradition has taken place the UK to Orlando, having flown millions of customers since since 1634 where the inhabitants of Oberammergau made a the route launched and to celebrate, both Belfast International vow to perform a passion play every ten years if God would and Glasgow Airport have seen expansions in their Orlando spare them from the bubonic plague. flying programme. The itineraries explore either Lake Garda, the Austrian Alps A Boeing 747-400 aircraft will operate next summer’s or the Castles, mountains and Lakes of Bavaria and all three Belfast to Orlando service on Mondays commencing on March include top tier tickets to the show. 26 – September 4, with an additional service on Fridays Prices start from £2,145 per person for an eight-day tour between June 22 and July 13. The aircraft will be configured and customers can save up to £150 per person when booking with 14 Upper Class seats, 66 Premium Economy seats and on or before August 15. 375 seats in Economy. For details see greatrail.com or call 0800-240 4470
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puzzlebulletin Win an Amazon Echo with
Number: 023 A «
Complete this Su Doku puzzle and then go to the competition section on travelbulletin.co.uk/competitions and submit the B « highlighted numbers.
A... B... C... D... C « Closing date for entries is Friday, June 16th.
The winner for May 26th is Sion Jones from Teithiau Menai Travel. D «
Crossword Where is #Chris from 023 Number: the Jet2Holidays’ Tradeteam this week?
Across Down 1. What is the name of the 1. Rag'n'Bone Man's hit single Jet2holidays Regional Sales and album (5) Manager for the North? (5) 2. Luton International airport 4. Johnny, back in his pirate role at code (3) a cinema near you (4) 3. Capital of Niger (6) 7. One of the Rocky Mountain 4. Kent resort close to Dover (4) states (7) 5. Major port for Greek island 8. African country, initially (3) hopping (7) Cast your eyes over this historic Byzantine landmark in this ever 9. Capital of the Campania 6. Airport serving the Algarve (4) popular Jet2holidays Eastern mediterranean island. region (6) 10. State capital of Arizona (7) 11. Currency of Argentina (4) 12. Lithuania is located on the 13. Cornish fishing port and shore of this sea (6) resort (4) 13. Capital of Peru (4) 14. Capital of Poland (6) 15. Bradley, host of The Chase (5) For the solution to the Crossword and 17. Manchester International 16. Capital of Samoa (4) Where Am I? airport code (3) 19. Abu Dhabi is the capital (3) 18. American rapper, sounds like a Please see page 22 terrier (7) 20. Popular Rhodes resort (4) 21. Prague is the capital of this Republic (5)
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Industry Insight by...
Bamboo Travel’’s director, Robin Ball, explains how the company’s strategy for working with agents is paying off...
E HAVE worked very hard at establishing substitute for meeting people face-to-face in the our reputation as Asia experts since email age, and we now have access to the most Wfounding Bamboo Travel in 2006. suitable agents in the UK to promote our product With the prospect of selling through the trade, and the confidence to start selling through the we would have to relinquish the 100% control that trade. selling direct gave us, so you can appreciate that Although we have an extensive library of we were nervous at going down the agent route. sample itineraries for the 18 countries that we The mass market High Street chains tend to sell in Asia, the majority of our trips require a focus on volume, which is just not how we degree of tailor-making which requires very good operate. However, the kind of independent agents product knowledge; how many people know about that are affiliated with AITO have a passion for the Tiaochuacha Courtship Festival at Liuzhi, or exotic, long-haul destinations and value customer can organise a game of petanque with the locals satisfaction as much as we do. in Luang Prabang? We joined AITO at the beginning of the year and But over time, the agents we are successfully we have subsequently been able to meet like- working with have got to know our style, and do minded, AITO Specialist Travel Agents, who not expect us to quote for ‘fly and flop’ packages. actively promote independent operators In fact, we now have a dedicated agency sales like ourselves. manager who is currently putting together an We recently attended a networking dinner with agents’ handbook to help them to understand our some of the best agents in the south west, which way of doing things, but of course we are always we found very useful indeed. There is no available at the end of the phone.
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Juber Chambilla Luve G Adventures, chief experience officer & brand ambassador
On weekends I like to… What's the best compliment What's a typical day like? Read books about the history of you've received? I wake up early and say hello to Peru. I try to keep learning so that I One of my travellers told me “Juber, everyone, and ask how they are. I can offer more insight and you are an angel”. He later confessed chat with them, organise transfers knowledge to travellers joining to me that his son had died a few and call the local guides so they my trips. days before he started the trip. First know to expect us. I help travellers he wanted to cancel, but his family with all sorts of things during the trip; What’s your favourite gadget? told him taking the tour would help money exchange, banks, bartering at My mobile phone is a part of me! It him to clear his mind. The day we local markets, and assist when they helps me with everything and I have were in Machu Picchu I took him to a forget or lose things. so many amazing apps. special place where the Incas used to say goodbye to their relatives who What is your top travel tip? What is the last picture you took on have passed away. He felt the spirit Eat in reputable places so you don’t your phone? of his son and thanked me. Everyone get sick. It was taken at Machu Picchu with my on the trip was emotional and that amazing G Adventures group. They moment will stay with me forever. Where’s your next holiday to? were very cool people. But I’m very Arequipa. I plan to take my family lucky - so far all my groups have My greatest strength is... there - it is four hours from where been great! Perseverance and discipline to always I live. be the best I can be. What is the strangest thing you have Anything else that ever eaten? What’s your favourite quote? you’d like people to Worms! Our local guide found some The best way to push a boat is to go know about you? Suris (a type of worm found in the with the current. Things happen I come from Puno and Amazon) and he said they were a naturally, I don’t force people to do I was born more than jungle delicacy. He asked for a things they don’t want to do. 4,300m volunteer to taste it, of course above sea nobody in my group was crazy Who is your celebrity crush? level. I enough to do it but me! Ronaldo - the best football player of studied tourism at la all time. Universidad Nacional del What's your most embarrassing Altiplano. Tour leading moment? What's the best thing about in Peru is a serious Once I had a guy on my trip who your job? profession, and I wanted to propose to his girlfriend, Meeting people from all over the have been working so he asked me to help him. We world, and travelling. I’m also grateful in travel for 17 chose the perfect place and time, for the opportunities G Adventures years. My travellers and a lot of people got involved to gives us, like being able to come to are in good hands! make it perfect. Then she said ‘no’ - I London to help educate agents Plus, I’m very friendly was so embarrassed for him. about Peru. and I love questions!
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ATTRACTION WORLD is offering visitors the chance to see the best The Big Apple has to offer with a New York package. It includes a three- day hop-on/off bus pass, entrance to the Empire State Building, lunch or dinner at a choice of venues, a one hour central park bike ride and a VIP Dine4less Card. The package is priced at £99 per adult and £85 for a child aged three to 11 years. Visit attractionworld.com
Colorado provides active mountain adventures with new summer tours & offerings THIS SUMMER, Colorado can be explored via several new Celebrating the Craft Beer industry in the state, adrenaline-pumping thrills and tour options each offering Tourmappers North America has introduced ‘Colorado visitors a unique adventure in the mountains. Mountain Crests & Craft Brews’. New for this summer, Canyoning Colorado will offer Running on select dates from June until October, the new canyoning and canyoneering descents and training in the group tour is led by ‘Beerologists’ who are experts not only in mountain town of Ouray. Adventurers will have the chance the destinations along the route, but also in the history, to explore eight canyons in the Uncompahgre National diversity, flavours and evolution of the craft beer industry. Forest, located on the outskirts of the town, with no Starting in Denver, the tour encompasses Estes Park, previous experience required. Boulder, Glenwood Springs, Grand Junction, Telluride, From June, Vail Resorts’ summer offering, Epic Durango, Great Sand Dunes National Park and Colorado Discovery, arrives in Breckenridge with an Alpineer Springs. The 12-day itinerary allows travellers to customise Challenge Course, Ariel Adventure Tour, climbing wall, their experience by choosing additional activities they’d like Expedition Zipline Tour and more. The summer expansion, to participate in throughout the trip, such as a jeep tour and combined with existing activities like the Mountain Coaster horseback riding. and Alpine Slides, connect all ages with the national forests Alternatively, At Your Pace Cycling is offering two new in an active way. guided bike tours to their summer roster. Visitors can tap Meanwhile, Steamboat Ski Resort is working with into Colorado’s cycling opportunities and taste the flavour manufacturer, Wiegand, to install the Outlaw Mountain of local craft brews on the new ‘Loveland Bike & Brews Coaster, the longest coaster in North America. Debuting Guided Day Tour’ or enjoy the wines offered and beauty of this summer and expected to operate year-round, the Colorado’s Western Slope on the ‘Palisade Wine Country mountain coaster will descend more than 400 vertical feet Guided Bike Tour’. with a riding length of more than 3,500ft. Further information can be found at colorado.com
Visit Orlando thanks 2016 visitors with record-breaking recognition VISIT ORLANDO unveiled its milestone visitation number of 68 million visitors in 2016, continuing to make it the number one visited destination in the US. The tourism association showed its appreciation by gathering thousands of hand-written thank you cards from local attractions and hotels to post to the actual visitors who supported the destination in 2016, achieving a Guinness World records title of ‘Most greetings cards collected in 24 hours’ in the process. George Aguel, president and CEO of the tourism association, said: “Orlando’s visitation number represents the emotional connections we make with millions all over the world. The love they show us never ceases to inspire us, and led us to launch a year-long campaign around two important words: thank you.” In total the Orlando tourism community handwrote 3,144 thank you cards for #OrlandosBIGThankYou. The new campaign will run through the remainder of the year thanking millions of guests for their support through hand-written cards, social media channels, marketing communications, destination websites and member programmes.
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Funway celebrates ‘Summer of Love’ FUNWAY HOLIDAYS is celebrating San Francisco's 50th ‘Summer of Love’ anniversary with a selection of special packages designed for those looking to relive the summer of 1967. Malcolm Davies, product destination manager for the operator, said: “Guests will be able to experience a kaleidoscope of events celebrating the summer of love in and around the San Francisco Bay Area through a series of local events, exhibits, and tours designed to take you back in time. “This summer is a great time to visit San Francisco, and another plus point is the new flights launched earlier this year by British Airways and Norwegian Airlines to Oakland nearby San Francisco, making it a really accessible area too." As an example of packages, the operator is offering seven nights in San Francisco staying at Holiday Inn Fisherman’s Walk. Priced from £1,780 per person it includes flights with Delta Airlines from London and is based on two adults travelling on August 4. Visit funway4agents.co.uk for more details. Whistle-stop promo tour from Arizona A DELEGATION FROM Arizona’s leading tourist destinations jetted in late Sweet Home Alabama and Florida campaigns from Premier last month for a whistle-stop promotional visit to leading PREMIER HOLIDAYS has unveiled two agents. The operator has also created a travel industry figures. America campaigns in conjunction with the themed video to offer added exposure for They included tourist boards found in each destination, Florida which agents can share online. representatives from the valid until the end of this month. The operator has also launched a Arizona Office of Tourism, The operator’s Florida marketing dedicated Alabama campaign promoting Tucson, Mesa, Flagstaff campaign includes a fly/drive holiday to city and beach stays, and a fly/drive and Scottsdale, where the the Sunshine State, with a stay near holiday. Offers include ‘The Sweet Home completely rebuilt Disney and car hire. Run in conjunction Alabama Trail’ fly/drive from £1,649 with Mountain Shadows resort with Visit Tampa, Experience Kissimmee two nights in Memphis, one night in opened in April. It is on the and The Beaches of Fort Myers and Muscle Shoals, two nights in Huntsville, Paradise Valley site of the Sanibel, the 14-night fly/drive costs from two in Birmingham, two in Montgomery original Marriott Mountain £1,599. The itinerary includes seven nights and two nights in Mobile, including car Shadows Resort, which at Disney Area Executive Home in hire. was built as one of the first Kissimmee, four nights at Wyndham Posters, flyers and images are available luxury properties in the Garden Fort Myers Beach and three nights for agents and the operator will also be region in 1959. at the Barrymore Hotel in Tampa. running a social media campaign to The new 183-room A range of materials to promote the further promote the offers. boutique hotel has a campaign such as posters and flyers Both campaigns include flights and are signature restaurant with containing product information and tips on valid for travel in November. desert views and is a how holidaymakers can spend their time in Visit trade.premierholidays.co.uk for more neighbour to the re- each destination can be accessed by details. designed par-3 18-hole Mountain Shadows Golf Club. Ceasars invests $90million in Flamingo Las Vegas Meanwhile, Mesa, just CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT Corporation has announced that as part of its continued south of Scottsdale, is commitment to providing guests with the best possible experience, the company will be promoting the latest craze by launching a USD$90million complete renovation of 1,270 rooms at Flamingo Las Vegas. offering Goat Yoga classes, The renovation will begin in late August, with the first guest arrivals expected in and the current trend for November, and final completion of all rooms expected in the second quarter of 2018. glamping, where Schnepf Guestooms will feature contemporary and retro-chic designs with accents that Farms has a collection of celebrate the property’s rich history as a key piece of the Las Vegas Strip. vintage polished aluminium The resort recently celebrated its 70th anniversary and features more than 3,500 trailers on its 300-acre guestrooms and suites. It is also home to a 15-acre pool and wildlife habitat, complete organic peach farm. with waterfalls, mature island vegetation, tropical wildlife, three pools and several For more destination details outdoor wedding gardens. see visitarizona.com
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THE MOUNT Washington Cog Railway has opened a new base station experience, free to its visitors. Exhibits at the museum include an interactive cog wheel and rack, documentary and a bio-diesel train simulator. In addition, hikers who want to summit the mountain and experience the train journey can now do both in a single day with an option to purchase one-way tickets up or down on the train for US$48 per hiker. The famous mountain climbing cog railway will also be celebrating its 150th anniversary in 2019. Visit thecog.com for details.
Blue Man Group welcomes travel trade Rail Discoveries unveils THE BLUE Man Group has unveiled a new travel trade Further expansion planned in Detroit Deep South tour programme, making it THE RECENT 2017 Pure Michigan Governor’s Conference NEW FOR 2017, Rail easier for agents to book on Tourism focused on the regeneration of Detroit. Discoveries has launched tickets for their clients. Speaking at the conference, Larry Alexander, president ‘America’s Deep South’ tour. The entertainment show, and CEO of the Detroit Metro Convention & Visitors Bureau, Louise Heatley, head of which has US productions in said: “Roughly 19 million people visit here each year and product and contracting for New York, Las Vegas, they spend well over $6billion dollars. International the operator, said: “With Orlando, Boston and visitation has grown substantially with upwards of two 2017 being the 40th year Chicago, is now available to million visitors coming to Metro Detroit annually from since Elvis’ death, joining a book at net rates directly international markets particularly the UK, Canada, tour that celebrates from the group and through Germany and China.” American music from the partners such as In the past few years $11billion worth of investment Deep South is a great way to Broadway Inbound. has been injected into the city; new developments remember ‘the King’. The Joe Tropia, national currently underway include Detroit’s Cobo convention Deep South is famous for marketing and sales director centre, which recently completed a $279million Blues, Soul, Jazz and Rock n at the production company, renovation and expansion, resulting in a 30,000ft. atrium Roll and this tour said: “We’re delighted to be with floor to ceiling windows, a TV studio and a new showcases the history of all creating new and exciting 40,000sq.ft ballroom, which was the location for Martin these genres.” ways to collaborate with the Luther King’s original ‘I have a dream’ speech. Ten days exploring the travel trade. We constantly The city’s hotel product is also expanding; currently, heartland of great American develop and refresh what there are nearly 5,000 luxury hotel rooms in Detroit with music costs from £1,995 per happens on stage, so it more currently under construction, adding a further 1,000 person and the itinerary comes naturally to keep rooms downtown and 2,800 throughout the region. New includes New Orleans, improving the way audiences hotels include the Foundation Hotel at the site of a former Nashville, Memphis and can access tickets too. Detroit Firehouse and the first hotel from the worldwide Graceland. “Our resident shows in luxury lifestyle brand based in Detroit, Shinola. The first departure of this New York, Las Vegas, More than 100 new restaurants, breweries, distilleries tour is on September 16 with Orlando, Boston and Chicago and coffee shops have opened in the last three years and, another departure continue to play to capacity last month, the QLine officially opened. The street car scheduled for November 11. all year round, and we want system runs 3.3 miles each way along the main city artery Visit raildiscoveries.com or travel professionals to send Woodward Avenue, connecting all attractions and dining call 01904-734939 for a message to their guests to venues between downtown and midtown. more information. book in advance to ensure To find out more visit michigan.org they get the best seats for the best price.” New Delta service opens up the West Coast for UK visitors Mixing art, music, comedy DELTA AIR Lines has commenced flights between Heathrow and Portland in the state of and state-of-the-art Oregon, opening up a new non-stop destination for British travellers in the United States’ technology, performances Pacific North West. are a celebration of human The airline will fly four times a week on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays connection and encourage throughout the summer season. audiences to see the world Dwight James, transatlantic senior vice president for the airline, said: “As the only airline to in a new perspective. fly non-stop between Britain and Portland, we are offering more choice for customers during To become a Blue Man the peak travel season this summer between the UK and US. Group Travel Partner, “We have been growing our network in the UK for the past three years, alongside our partner, agents can email Joe Tropia Virgin Atlantic, and this summer we have up to 39 flights a day to the United States enabling at [email protected] or people to reach every corner of the country with ease.” see blueman.com Visit delta.com or call 020-7660 0767 for more details.
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‘Seasiding’ trend puts coastal staycations top of 2017 wish list Tribecas to arrive at ‘SEASIDING’ IS one of the most popular our booking figures for 2017 breaks across Hayling Island ways to spend a holiday in 2017 according our coastal parks. Holiday Resort to Parkdean Resorts. “While nostalgia and tradition play an MILL RYTHE Holiday Village The new term has been coined by the important part in the trend, ‘seasiding’ is all on Hayling Island, which is holiday park operator to describe a trend in about holidaying at the coast in new ways. owned by Away Resorts, will holidaymakers booking a trip to the The seaside offering has evolved be home to the holiday park seaside, either for their children to share in considerably over the decades since my company’s latest Tribeca the same experiences they enjoyed years parents visited as children, not least on our caravan concept this ago or to simply appreciate the fun of a parks which now provide caravans with summer. This will mean that holiday by the sea. central heating and double glazing, and the holiday village will be The UK staycation market has grown often with indoor pools and adventure play offering guests a wide steadily over recent years, with many people areas, making it comfortable to holiday both choice of accommodation opting for domestic holidays over going sides of the peak summer months. options; from the traditional abroad. As a result, the company welcomed “There's nowhere better to holiday than 1930 chalets of the Sunshine more than 500,000 holidaymakers in 2016, a the British seaside – you only have to look Camp era to the modern figure which is expected to increase this at Newquay in Cornwall, Porthcawl in Wales 21st century holiday home. year - with a demand for coastal breaks in or Tynemouth in the North East to see There will be three particular emerging. towns with true character, impressive Tribecas with private hot tubs The Isle of Wight, Cornwall and Wales are independent businesses and a whole host at the site, which will be among the most subscribed regions for of things to do, as well as stunning coastal available to stay in from July Seasiders, with parks in these areas seeing scenery to enjoy. 24. The accommodation an increase in popularity, thanks to “We have made a significant investment option can sleep up to six and beaches, tourist attractions, vintage-style of £50m across our parks on prices for four nights from ice cream parlours, trendy street food accommodation, retail and leisure facilities July 24-28 lead in at £958. establishments, festivals, events, and quirky this year, where families can create The Tribeca is a boutique- gift shops all found nearby. memories that will last a lifetime.” style caravan with a New John Waterworth, chief executive of the To celebrate what the seaside has to offer York loft-house apartment company, said: “This year will see more and the operator has launched a dedicated feel, with industrial-style more people reliving memories of childhood section to Seasiding on its new website at lighting and wall coverings, holidays at the sea, reflected by an uplift in parkdeanresorts.co.uk/seasiding but with soft, plush furnishings. It features a central, light-filled and airy living space with the adults’ and children’s bedrooms either side, an open-plan kitchen plus a living area. The adult bedroom has boutique hotel features, such as a flatscreen TV and a stand-alone bath-tub, as well as a separate en suite. The holiday village has also invested £80,000 in a new high ropes course, AQUAGLIDE HAS opened at Tattershall Lakes Country Park in Lincolnshire. The inflatable aqua park which is reported to be includes a floating assault course, a trampoline, a human catapult, a cyclone, Kaos - a big pillow that proving popular with guests. blasts people into the air - and the UK’s only volley ball court on water. Other watersports available For more information visit include cable wakeboarding, kayaking, paddle boarding, waterskiing and jet skiing. Visit awayresorts.co.uk awayresorts.co.uk for more information.
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holidayparks Haven offers agents educational breaks WITH SUMMER almost here, Haven is giving agents the chance to enjoy a break with their families staying in a deluxe caravan at a choice of 36 UK coastline holiday parks. Agents have the option of booking a three- or four-night midweek break from £79 per family or from £119 on selected dates throughout June. Prices are based on a family sharing a deluxe two- or three-bedroom caravan that sleep up to six or eight people. Agents can also upgrade to a Prestige two- or three-bedroom caravan for three- and four-night breaks from £99 and £139 per caravan, respectively. The offer is subject to availability and is offered on a first come, first served basis. In order to book a break agents can email their ABTA number, contact details, the date and park they’d like to visit and how many people in their party to [email protected] In other news, the holiday park operator is bringing its Camp Cardboard sessions back for July and August. Designed to fire the imagination, the activity uses recycled cardboard boxes, paper and tape and allows HAVEN HAS opened Hafan y Môr’s new swimming complex, Splash children to create whatever they want – from forts and Away Bay. Following a £3million investment, the entire complex mazes, to giant cardboard sandcastles. has been restyled and features three flume slides, play areas for Sessions are available free of charge to guests across all young children, a multi-lane slide, bubble pool, lazy river, wave pool and a lane for those wanting to just swim. Welsh Olympic of the company’s parks except Far Grange and Lydstep swimmer Jazz Carlin, who won the Silver medal in both the Beach. Children of all ages are welcome to take part when women’s 400m and 800m freestyle at the Rio 2016 Games, accompanied by an adult and each activity session must be attended the launch event and officially opened the swimming pre-booked. complex. Its opening represents one of the largest in the company’s portfolio and is the centre piece of an overall For further information visit bourneleisuresales.co.uk or £5.5million investment in the park. call 0333-202 5270. S07 TB 0906 2017 Australasia_Layout 1 06/06/2017 16:56 Page 20
Flight Centre sells ‘Perth Long Weekend’ packages from £1,679 australasia FLIGHT CENTRE is now selling non-stop packages to Perth from £1,679 to celebrate the launch of Qantas’ direct flights to Australia. With return fares on the new non-stop route initially starting from £1,232 alone, the ‘Perth Long Weekend’ package includes a four-night stay in a five-star hotel and private airport transfers for £447 extra. The world’s fastest route from London to Perth launches on March 25, 2018 with a flight time of 17 hours – three hours quicker than the current shortest flight time to Australia. The rote will be served by a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, which does not have to stop to re-fuel en- route, and passengers can enjoy the latest Qantas cabin configurations with 42 Business Class seats, 28 Premium Economy and 166 Economy. The daily flights will be part of a new London to Melbourne return service via Perth, departing Heathrow at 13.30 and Perth at 18.50. This year the company also launched its first Australia Travel Trends Report which found that the average person spent 12 days in Australia in 2016 compared to 15 days in previous years. Other findings revealed that Glasgow is the most GREAT SOUTHERN Rail, which operates Australia's cross continental expensive UK departure point and Edinburgh is the rail journeys – The Ghan and the Indian Pacific – has created six new cheapest; travellers to Australia are most likely to be from Rail and Sail journeys designed to explore Australia, New Zealand and London, Bristol & Glasgow; in 2016, Premium Economy Singapore in a relaxed, stylish and comfortable setting. Itineraries fares were on average 34% cheaper year-on-year; Business include ‘Circumnavigate Australia’ travelling Sydney to Sydney via Lombok & the Indian Pacific, ‘Australia & New Zealand’ travelling from Class fares were 10% less expensive than the previous Perth & Auckland via Sydney and the Indian Pacific, and four differing year; and Doha is the fastest growing connection to ‘Australia & Singapore’ tours. Australia (60% year-on-year increase in stopovers), followed by Hong Kong (21% year-on-year increase) Visit flightcentre.co.uk for more details. Travel 2 adds Hotel St Moritz TRAVEL 2 IS now featuring the newly refurbished Hotel St Moritz in Queenstown New Zealand as part of its Australasia offering. Rachel McMurdo, the operator’s assistant product manager for Oceania, said: “The luxury four-star hotel is a member of the MGallery Group by Sofitel and will feature elegant rooms with spectacular lake views. “We have also added the four-star M Social Hotel in Auckland to our New Zealand offering which is due to open in October. The hotel is very contemporary and is in a fantastic location overlooking Princes’ Wharf with views of the sparking Waitamata Harbour. The trendy Beast and Butterflies restaurant and bar will serve ‘Eclectic Pacific’ cuisine and signature cocktails from the longest bar in Auckland.”
Etihad Airways goes double daily from Abu Dhabi to Sydney in October ETIHAD AIRWAYS has announced that all 14 weekly flights on its Abu Dhabi – Sydney route will be operated with its flagship A380 aircraft, effective October 29. The current daily A380 Sydney flights will be joined by a second daily superjumbo service, upgraded from a 328-seat Boeing 777-300ER. The announcement comes as the airline marks its tenth anniversary of flying to Sydney, its first Australian destination. Featuring the carrier’s three-room suite ‘The Residence’, the additional deployment of the 496-seat double decker aircraft means one of Australia’s largest cities will join London and New York as an all-A380 operation. The Sydney – Heathrow route, via Abu Dhabi, will also offer guests the convenience and comfort of a seamless all-A380 service in both directions. The airline’s three daily Heathrow flights are operated with an A380 and beginning June 1, the second daily New York service will be upgraded to the superjumbo. Visit etihad.com for more information.
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Emirates to launch third daily Brisbane service EMIRATES WILL introduce a third daily service to Brisbane, Australia from December 1, complementing the airline’s existing two daily services. The service will be operated on a B777-200LR aircraft with eight seats in First Class, 42 in Business and 216 in Economy, increasing capacity on the route by 3,724 seats a week, inbound and outbound between Brisbane and the carrier’s hub in Dubai. This will give passengers in the UK greater access to Australia with just one stop in Dubai. GOLD MEDAL recently treated its ‘most improved’ agents selling Western Australia to a trip Down The inbound service EK430 Under on a fam to experience the delights of the destination first hand. Agents visited Perth, Rottnest will depart Dubai at 22:00, Island, Pinnacles National Park, Geraldton, Kalbarri, Monkey Mia, Denham and Shark Bay to see the best of Western Australia. Pictured enjoying the sights are, from the left: Alice Hook, Appleby Travel; arriving in Brisbane at Sandy Tseng, Toplux Travel; Adele Kent, Lincolnshire Co-operative Travel; Amy Coggin, Garstang 18:15 the following day, Travel; Sakil Moosa, The Savvy Travellers; Tara Passmore, Destination Lounge; Jacob Stead and while the outbound flight Louisa Jackson from Gold Medal. EK431 will depart Brisbane at 22:25, arriving in Dubai at 07:00 the next day. Princess Cruises unveils Australia programme for 2018/19 The service will operate PRINCESS CRUISES has announced that it will homeport four ships in Australia, New alongside two existing daily Zealand and the South Pacific for the 2018/19 season. services to Dubai. Flights A total of 95 sailings will take place between May 2018 and April 2019 and the cruises, EK434 and EK435 operate which are on sale now, take in 18 countries and 70 destinations. non-stop between Dubai The programme includes sailings on the line's newest ship, the 3,560-guest Majestic and Brisbane and onwards Princess. Sailing from Sydney and Auckland, voyages range from six to 13 days and call at to Auckland, New Zealand, New Zealand, Tasmania, Fiji and other islands in the South Pacific. while flights EK432 and The ship will also embark on two Australia and Asia voyages: a 22-day sailing from EK433 operate between Shanghai to Sydney in August 2018 and a 17-day sailing from Brisbane to Hong Kong in Dubai and Brisbane via March 2019. Singapore. Additionally, The 2,000-guest Sun Princess will also make 13 round-trip departures from Sydney to with codeshare partner New Zealand, Fiji, Tasmania and Queensland, as well as a 19-day Asia and Australia Qantas, Emirates offers voyage sailing from Hong Kong to Sydney. Prices start from £1,388 per person for a 13-day services to Singapore New Zealand voyage, departing on November 20, 2018. twice-daily from Brisbane. For more information visit princess.com/holiday or call 0843-374 2402. The news comes as the airline announced it would be upgrading its third daily Great Rail Journeys ticks off New Zealand from the bucket list service to Melbourne from CLIENT’S KEEN to tick off New Zealand off contracting for the operator, said: “New a B777-300ER to an A380 the bucket list can take advantage of Great Zealand seems to be on everyone’s bucket operation from Rail Journeys’ Grand Tour of New Zealand list and it’s no wonder why; with steaming March 25, 2018. special offer. geysers, picturesque mountains, Brisbane is renowned The 22-day tour exploring the ‘Youngest bottomless fjords and lush forests, the for its thriving culture and Country on Earth’ costs from £5,795 per islands are truly magical. This tour ensures is the major international person and takes customers to both the customers see and do all the main gateway to the Gold Coast, North and South Island, showcasing the attractions, so they can tick New Zealand a tourist hot spot and host country’s scenery and breathtaking views. off their bucket list.” of the Gold Coast 2018 The itinerary includes excursions to Te Departures in 2018 fall on February 18 Commonwealth Games. Anau Lake and Caves, Bay of Islands and a and November 18. For more information visit cruise around the Milford Sound. Visit greatrail.com or call 0800-240 4470 for emirates.com Louise Heatley, head of product and more details.
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australasia
BRIDGECLIMB SYDNEY and the Australian Academy of Tai Chi and Qigong recently came together to host the world’s first Tai Chi class at the top of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Travel Bulletin is published by Alain Charles Publishing (Travel) Ltd In the last few years, BridgeClimb has hosted special limited edition climbs and one-off University House, 11-13 Lower Grosvenor Place, special events for local and international festivals and is becoming a ‘must-do’ tourist London, SW1W 0EX attraction in Sydney, with more than 3.5 million people aged from eight to 100, having Tel: 020-7834 6661 climbed the bridge since it opened in 1998. Visit bridgeclimb.com Printed by: Buxton Press Subscriptions are £125 p.a. £195 overseas ISSN: 0956-2419 puzzlesolutions Crossword: Across: 1. HELEN, 4. DEPP, 7. MONTANA, 8. RSA, 9. NAPLES, 11. PESO, 13. LOOE, 14. WARSAW, 17. MAN, 18. PITBULL, 20. IXIA, 21. CZECH. @TravelBulletin Down: 1. HUMAN, 2. LTN, 3. NIAMEY, 4. DEAL, 5. PIRAEUS, 6. FARO, 10. PHOENIX, 12. BALTIC, 13. LIMA, 15. WALSH, 16. APIA, 19. UAE.
TravelBulletin Where Am I?: Paphos Harbour Castle
We asked our staff the following question this week: Which fictional place would you like to visit?
Jeanette Ratcliffe Matthew Weinreb Publisher Sales Executive [email protected] [email protected] Oz Edge of the world
Lauretta Wright Kathryn Frost Editor Sales Executive [email protected] [email protected] The Daily Planet's offices (Superman!)
Adam Potter Oliver Barton Editorial Assistant Events & Sales Administrator [email protected] [email protected] Hogwarts Wonderland
Paul Scudamore Nicky Valsamakis Contributing Editor Design Team Leader Craggy Island (Father Ted) [email protected] The planet of Eternia Simon Eddolls Sales Director Miriam Brtkova [email protected] Designer Middle Earth [email protected] Atlantis Tim Podger Account Manager - Far East Lucia Mathurin [email protected] Design Apprentice Heaven...but not yet [email protected] Stark Tower Bill Coad Account Manager Nelly Mendes [email protected] Production [email protected] Candyland Matt Gill Senior Account Manager [email protected] Bedrock
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