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August 4 2017 | ISSUE NO 2,025 | travelbulletin.co.uk

Discover the Cayman Islands Experience the Undiscovered with Funway Holidays

WIN A FAM TRIP PLACE See back page for details.

To book call 020 8290 9754 or visit www.funway4agents.co.uk TB 0408 2017 Cover Wrap 28/07/2017 14:31 Page 2

Expeerience Thhe Cayma an Islands with Funway Holidaysys

Experience tthe undiscovered in the CCayyman Islands. Located in the Weestern Caribbean, nnestled in an unparallel led tropical setting, the isl ands are world renownedd foro their luxury dining, sn norkelling and diving. Endless poss sibilities awwait in the Caymyman Islands. A luxury holid day can be combined with an abundance of activities, making it the perfecte dest tination foro all ages and inter terests. It’s also the perfecect place to sit back and do nothing g at all, , justj enjo j oy the view and feele the sa and between your toes. Discover more with the NEW W Online Trravel Traraining course at www.caymymanislands-training..co.uk

Travel iin style with Britissh Airwaysy to Grand Caymany from Lon don Heathrow arriving in n paradise in less than 13 hourh s. ;MXL¾MKLXW JSYV XMQIW E [IIO XLIVI EVI TPIRX] SJ departurees to choose to escape to o the pearl white sands and d crystal blue waters of the e Caymany Islands.

Add a tou uch of luxury and upgrad de to Worldo Traraveller Plus fromo £189pp pp p one way

SpecSiial l Offere 4th nightnigh

4.5* Wesestin Grand Caymany FREEFR Seven M ile Beach & Spa 7 nigh hts from £17229pp

London HHeathrow with British AAirwaysy Based on 2 adults sharing travelling on 12 October 2017

ToTo book call 020 8290 9754 or visit www.funway4agents.co.uk TB 2107 2017 Cover Copy 02/08/2017 14:01 Page 3

August 4 2017 | ISSUE NO 2,025 | travelbulletin.co.uk

Weddings & Ideas on new venues and deals to sell to clients

this week xmas markets 21 puzzle bulletin event bulletin middle east 11 12 operators 24 unveil new play Su Doku for your images from our itinerary a look at new chance to win a £50 Cruise Showcase options for the developments, programme M&S voucher event in festive season additions & savings S01 TB 0408 2017 Start_Layout 1 02/08/2017 14:11 Page 2 S01 TB04082017Start_Layout102/08/201714:11Page3

Cover Pictures: Main - linute Silzeviciute Inset - Cologne Christmas Market, River Cruise Line (£69.88);Limassol, Cyprus(£69.90) and Porec, Croatiaothers (£73.75). are Sunny Beach, Bulgaria (£63.56); Crete,the Greece sunwill have the leastimpact on the purse.is The one offive in the Eastern Med andthe Balkans wherefun in £500 foreign exchangetransaction at the Post Office.Families can expect to receive £96 more in Turkishthe value lira of on the a Turkish lira against sterling sincewhere last family summer. fun will cost the least – thanks to a 24%produced slump in for the Family Holiday Resort. Marmaristhe is the 15 European resort surveyed for the Beach Barometer, Europe.of west the in moreexpensivedestinations of costthe half lessthan be can tag price wherethe Balkans the or Med Eastern the resortsconsiderin to advised children’son well spending be extrastheir would curb to want revealsholidaymakerswho Report that Holiday the coming weeks, the annual Post Office Travel MoneyAS THOUSANDS Family of familieshead off to Europeanhotspots in revealsreport Office Post new holidays family of cost cut to east Head travelbulletin.co.uk 09 08 Herbert and Andy Stark, TGTG; Richard Avery, Spitfire Travel; Darren Vurnum, Escape Worldwide; and Sean Fletcher, Travel Four Seasons. Four Travel Fletcher, Sean and Worldwide; Escape Vurnum, Darren Travel; Spitfire Avery, Richard TGTG; Stark, Andy and Herbert Travel; Sian Webster, TGTG; Jugal Kantelia, Platinum Travel Lounge; Bill Lowe, Love2Shop Holidays; Tiffany Woodley, Myriad Travel; Rhian Travel; Myriad Woodley, Tiffany Holidays; Love2Shop Lowe, Bill Lounge; Travel Platinum Kantelia, Jugal TGTG; Webster, Sian Travel; specialisms are factored into every decision the consortium makes. Pictured ready to place their bets are, from the left: Olein Webster, Diamond Webster, Olein left: the from are, bets their place to ready Pictured makes. consortium the decision every into factored are specialisms their ongoing support at an evening of horseracing at Chester Race Course. The GAP plays an important role in ensuring TGTG's agents’ views and views agents’ TGTG's ensuring in role important an plays GAP The Course. Race Chester at horseracing of evening an at support ongoing their THE GLOBAL Travel Group’s (TGTG) managing director, Andy Stark, hosted the company’s Global Advisory Panel (GAP) of agents to thank them for them thank to agents of (GAP) Panel Advisory Global company’s the hosted Stark, Andy director, managing (TGTG) Group’s Travel GLOBAL THE 03 PLACE YOUR BETS... YOUR PLACE The report found that pester power by kids set parents back At £57.37 for the Beach Barometer items, the Turkish resort Prices for 12 typical beach holiday extras vary dramatically in training updates agent offers, booking incentives & agent bulletin Travel Escapes has been up to lately find out what Sandy from Sandy’s notes from normanton news & developments a round-up of this week’s industry news

This week 12 14 11 event in Birmingham images from our Cruise Showcase event bulletin news & views from Advantage bulletin briefing £50 M&S voucher play Su Doku for your chance to win a puzzle bulletin is to head east for lowerforprices.”east head to is messagegeneral the and value good look all Sol del Costa the and survey.Beach our resortsSunny in Marmaris, value best arethe availabletodeals late what checking cost – especially in some of Europe’s more expensiveThe Beach resorts. Barometer reveals just how muchthese itemssqueeze can last year’s beach gear for the kids intothe out suitcase. cash on basicslike suncream and insect repellentmessage and is to plan ahead: pack whatyou can to avoid forking around 0.5% in both Sunny Beach and the Costa Blanca. prices havefallen 5.4% in Crete, 4.6% in the Algarvewhere and a 14.9% price fall is due to the weaker Turkishyear lira, in six of the resorts surveyed. Aside fromMarmaris, pester power to have more of an impact onthe wallet.(£114.17) and Nice in the Southof France (£117.78) canfamilies expectvisiting Ibiza (£97.12), Sorrento in Southern Italy spades,swimming goggles and lilos (£53). visits (£61), pedalo rides (£31) and beach gear like bucketsyear-on-year, and while other budget busterswere water92% admitted park splashing out almost £39 on ice-creams,families up 28% who set a budgetoverspent by nearly a quarter.£184 on their Some last holiday, which explains why two-thirds of “For those who haven’t already booked, it is worth is alreadybooked,it haven’t who “Forthose Andrew Brownof Post Office Travel Money said:“The clear However, the surveyfound that prices have fallensince last While the Eastern Med and the Balkans look good value, 15 24 21

August 42017

bulletin news programme additions & savings a look at new developments, middle east to clients ideas on new venues and deals to sell weddings & honeymoons for the festive season operators unveil new itinerary options xmas markets 3 S01 TB 0408 2017 Start_Layout 1 02/08/2017 14:11 Page 4

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PURE GOLD...Gold Medal’s head of trade support, Karen Fletcher (second from left), celebrates the opening of Gold Medal and PURE LUXURY branded Freedom Travel Penwortham with owner Business Flex addition Maureen Evans (left) and manager Laura Hobson. from Pegasus Airlines Holidaymakers could save more than £3,000 says FairFX offers flexible options PEGASUS AIRLINES has CONSUMERS BOOKING breaks for the from Stansted to Barcelona costs £76 on launched its new flight summer stand to save thousands with a few Friday, August 25. However, flying to Milan package, Business Flex, to smart moves, research by travel money for two nights before travelling on to make its guests' journey specialist FairFX reveals. To put it to the Barcelona came in at £57. That’s a saving more comfortable test, the company looked at a family of £19 a person - £76 for a family of four. and flexible. travelling in the peak August school • Switch your home airport – sometimes Guests who purchase a holidays and costed out potential savings departing from a bit further afield can Business Flex ticket can adding up to a staggering £3,153. mean big savings. A summer holiday change their tickets and Suggested actions included: return flight from Cardiff Airport to cancel without charges, • Be flexible with the length of your holiday Portugal costs £358, but flying from receive 15kg of free check-in – if you’re not fixed being away for exactly Bristol Airport just over 60 miles away baggage on internal flights 14 nights, check out the cost of departing can more than halve the cost to £151 - in Turkey and 20kg on all on alternative days. FairFX found that a that’s a saving of £207 a person or £828 international flights flight from Gatwick to Malaga on Saturday, for a family of four. including to and from August 5, returning two weeks later costs • Consider unsociable flights - FairFX found Turkey, as well as 12kg free £232 per person. However, coming back a that a week’s package holiday for a family cabin baggage and seat day earlier will reduce the cost down to of four to Rhodes from Manchester Airport selection (including seats £188. It’s also cheaper to return home a dropped from £6,854 to £6,061 when with extra legroom). day later at £192. That’s a saving of £44 a travelling overnight - a saving of £793 for a Half price savings are person – or £176 or a family of four – and family of four. also offered on a selection of you add an extra day to your break. Other suggestions included book parking other services. • Visit two holiday hotspots for less – in advance; be flexible with travel dates; and For more information visit consider a stopover en route to your book hold baggage, airport parking and flypgs.com destination. For example, a direct flight currency in advance. Icelandair boosts Glasgow service by more than 2,000 extra seats from November ICELANDAIR WILL increase its Glasgow service by more than 2,000 extra seats. From the beginning of November until the end of December, four flights a week from GLA to KEF will increase in capacity by 39 seats per leg jumping from 183 seats per flight to 222 seats. Steven Marshall, head of airline marketing and development at Glasgow Airport, said: “Icelandair is one of our longest serving airlines and we are delighted that they have seen the potential for increased demand between Glasgow and North America this winter. In winter time New York is especially popular from Glasgow and we are pleased to see Icelandair offer incredible value in its fares; return fares start from as little as £370 per person.” The Glasgow to Keflavik route will also remain a daily one allowing for hassle-free connections to Icelandair’s 18 trans-Atlantic North American gateways. The increased capacity on the Glasgow flights will also be complimented by an additional flight to New York’s Newark from Keflavik that will begin on Wednesday November 15 until January 11, taking the Newark route to a daily service. The Glasgow flights, along with the other six from UK gateways, will connect into this service.

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Debut Austrian Alp A-ROSA River Cruises teams up with Shearings Holidays launch from Six SHEARINGS HOLIDAYS is to feature A-ROSA River Cruises in 2018, which are packaged into Senses commissionable, all-inclusive tours for agents to sell. SIX SENSES With both operators keen to capture more of the UK Resorts Spas has market, the new partnership will see Shearings announced the latest Holidays take a full ship charter alongside selling 19 project in the group’s departures on 12 itineraries on six rivers. In addition, a expanding portfolio with joint marketing fund has been allocated to drive its first resort in Austria. awareness amongst the travel trade and help both Set in the Austrian operators engage fully with agents. mountains, Six Senses Shearings will package the river cruise with either Jane Atkins (left), managing director of Kitzbühel Alps will be coach travel from the UK to the ship, rail options Shearings Holidays and Lucia Rowe, head open year-round and will including Eurostar and local rail (where appropriate) of A-ROSA UK mark the new partnership. feature 80 rooms or flights from a range of UK airports. In addition, where available a dedicated Home including 50 residences Connect service is offered to all A-ROSA cruise customers. For those booking early, a range and a selection of chalets of ‘Early Booking Offers’ are available that offer savings off the total package price. available for purchase. Jane Atkins, managing director at Shearings, said: “Partnering with A-ROSA means we The resort, which is can now offer the next level of ship class, in a move to capture a wide audience. Historically located in Salzburg, is our river cruise product has featured entry-level ships and the addition of A-ROSA provides within comfortable driving us with new product to attract new customers. We are especially excited about the multi- distances of several major generational opportunities that our partnership offers.” cities with international Over the coming months a range of agent focused marketing activity is planned including airports, and is scheduled educationals, competitions, a VIP trip and a host of social media activity. to open in 2020. Overall package prices lead in at £559 per person for a six-day Paris & Versailles itinerary For informations see that includes four nights' all-inclusive cruise on A-ROSA VIVA with free drinks on board, an sixsenses.com to the Palace of Versaiilles and a guided waking tour of Rouen, plus return travel from the UK by coach based on November 27 and December 5, 2018 departures. For more information see shearings.com

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newsbulletin Channel Islands promotion from Premier Holidays & Condor Ferries PREMIER HOLIDAYS has joined forces with Condor Ferries to promote the benefits of travelling by car to the Channel Islands. The new campaign, which runs until the end of August, highlights the convenience of travelling by car to Jersey and Guernsey. Several tactical offers (including accommodation and travel) are available, offering travellers a £30 discount on travel with Condor Ferries from Poole, based on two people sharing and taking their own vehicle. Agents can download posters and jpeg images from Premier's website to feature in their shop window and on social media. They can also earn £10 in shopping vouchers for all Channel Islands by sea bookings. Tactical offers include three nights at the Talana in Jersey from £365 per person, valid for travel until September 5; four nights at Jersey’s Norfolk Lodge from £479 travelling until August 25; four nights at La Villette in Guernsey from £429, valid until September 5; and a luxury four-night stay at the Duke of Richmond from £525, travelling until September 30. For more information or to book visit trade.premierholidays.co.uk or call 0844-493 7444.

New 'Trust Us' campaign for members from The Travel Network Group THE TRAVEL Network Group (TTNG) the best time of the year for them especially personalised for members recently distributed its new and their families.” to use in their local market places, marketing campaign materials to The campaign features bright and have also been produced. members, under the theme of ‘ colourful images that will make Meanwhile, in addition to the core Trust Us’. members’ retail windows inviting campaign materials, the group’s Si Morris-Green, the consortium's and eye-catching. Point-of-sale homeworking division – Independent group marketing director, said: “We materials include leading-offer Travel Experts – has an exclusive ‘Win are really excited with this campaign, cards, personalised window POS and £500 holiday spending money’ offer to which perfectly summarises how an Escape flyer with holiday deals at promote with its customers. many customers feel about their less than £1,000 per person. All Morris-Green said: “Within one hour local independent travel agent. A materials are also available in digital of launch, homeworkers had already holiday is one of the biggest format on the group’s marketing submitted more than 20 entries, and purchases that consumers make in a portal – The Hub – which is we are expecting more than 500 year, and they put a lot of trust into accessible to members. entries before the winner is their travel agent to make sure it’s ‘Trust Us’ campaign videos, announced on Friday September 29.”

• NEW: 150,000 MeliaPRO Reward points to be won!

• Win a five-night stay, £100 Love2Shop vouchers and a summer hamper with Outrigger resorts

• Win a four-night stay for 2 at Secrets St. James Montego Bay with AM Resorts

THE MOORINGS is urging agents to capitalise on the recent media coverage around the America’s Cup in Bermuda, which saw Emirates Team take the cup home. A seven-night Moorings 5800 private charter in the British Virgin Islands in October costs from £1,803 per person based on ten sharing including yacht charter, all meals, snacks and beverages, housekeeping, Wi-Fi and all onboard equipment. Flights are extra. For details see moorings.co.uk/crewed

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New launches from Eating London Food Tours FOLLOWING DEMAND, Eating London the local area, its community and the Food Tours has announced the launch range of food. of two new tours – Brick Lane, which The two-and-a-half tour departs at offers ‘Flavours of India & Beyond’, 14:30 from Monday to Sunday and and Old Docks, which back in prices are £46 for adults, £38 for time to explore historical pubs. those aged 13-17 and £28 for The Brick Lane tour offers a children aged between four and 12. lunchtime itinerary that takes in the The London Old Docks option takes Monday to Fiday at midday and prices sights, sounds, smells and tastes of in the historical pubs along the docks are £79. ‘Banglatown’. Not only will guests get of old London town to sample the For further information or to make a to sample a great range of cuisine, city’s best craft brews and pub grub. booking see eatinglondontours.co.uk they’ll also boost their knowledge on The four-hour itinerary departs or call 01223-793177.

Montenegro addition for summer 2018 from Thomson & First Choice AS DEMAND for mid-haul holidays continues to soar, Thomson and First Choice have unveiled Montenegro as its latest destination for summer 2018. Resorts including Ulcinj, Budva, Becici and Petrovac are now available to book with direct flights taking holidaymakers to Podgorica from Gatwick, Manchester and Birmingham airports. Thomson has also announced new long-haul city breaks with more choice and exciting locations in its cities programme for late summer/early autumn 2017. Four new cities – Boston, San Francisco, Los Angeles and Dubai will join New York, Las Vegas and Miami in the City Destinations collection from autumn. All hotels are in desirable central locations and have been carefully curated to reflect the best of each city. A variety of hotel options are available to suit all tastes and budgets and, to ensure maximum choice and flexibility, a range of flights with leading airlines enables holidaymakers to decide when they want to fly and where from. As an example of prices, a four-night stay in New York flying with Norwegian Airlines and staying at the 3T Amsterdam Court Hotel near the Rockerfeller Centre costs £789 per person from November 25-29. S02 TB 0408 2017 News 1_Layout 1 01/08/2017 15:39 Page 8

newsbulletin Stockholm

Last-minute summer tour options to Notes from Scandinavia to promote to clients SCANDINAVIA IS encouraging agents to highlight last- minute summer holiday bookings to the destination as it Normanton... has a range of new tours still with availability for the coming weeks, including the six-week school holiday. They range from a traditional Swedish summer holiday, ideal for families, to a castle stay in Demark, with prices leading in at £1,130 per adult and £600 per DON’T KNOW about you but one of my favourite flowers is child for a week in Sweden. the Sunflower. It is a gorgeous sunny yellow and makes As an idea of tour options, a new seven-night Ime think of the sun and warmer climates. Bring back ‘Sommarhagen and Stockholm’ fly/drive break to proper seasons I say, not this mish mash of weather we Sweden is ideal as an outdoor activity holiday for have at the moment. No one would think it was July with all families with young children. the rain – I’m waiting for a nice stretch of hot sunny days; After arriving in Stockholm, guests will make their meanwhile, I will keep buying the sunflowers from Lidl & way to Sommarhagen, a traditional red house and Aldi! former vicarage in the wilderness of Östergötland. Set Good news - the UK Foreign Office has amended its amongst lakes, meadows and forests, the small hotel travel advice for Tunisia, enabling holidaymakers to provides an ideal base from which to explore the area. travel to most of the country, including the capital Tunis A wide variety of different activities are available and the popular tourist resorts such as Sousse. Sami including horse riding, canoeing, cycling, walking, Tounsi, trade manager at the Tunisian National Tourist swimming in a lake and wildlife watching. For younger Office, said he was ‘absolutely delighted’ and praised the children, Tumbo Farm is next door and features cows, trade for all their support. It’s been a long time coming - sheep, chickens, horses, rabbits and other small animals. let’s hope it’s all positive going forward now. After five nights, the remaining two are spent in Have a guess at who the most annoying people are on the capital Stockholm, home to Skansen open-air planes – yes persistent seat-kickers made the top of museum, complete with wooden buildings, Nordic Expedia's annual airplane etiquette study for the third year animals and an aquarium. in a row (followed by the inattentive parents that let their Prices lead in at £1,130 per adult and £600 per child kids slam their tiny toes into your back over and over and including flights from Heathrow, seven nights' breakfast over). In fact, 64% of the study's respondents said they were accommodation, car hire with unlimited mileage and most irritated by the ‘Rear Seat Kicker’, while 59% said they entrance to the Skansen open-air museum in Stockholm. were frustrated by ‘Inattentive Parents’ who have no control The tour departs daily until September 30. or who don't pay attention to their unruly children. It does For more information or to book call 01274-875199 or see sometimes make you wonder whether families would be scandinaviaonly.co.uk better off sitting with other families; the children would have friends to talk with and the parents wouldn’t be getting stressed trying to keep them under control! Read a good tip by Martin Lewis about saving money on buying water at airports; have an empty water bottle in your bag and when you have passed through customs you can fill it up at one of the water stations dotted about in the airport. That is, if they have them! But I’m sure many do. I'm not sure about Leeds Bradford though - I will have to check that one out next time. ‘Be the change you wish to see in the world’ and ‘Life is too short to wake up in the morning with regrets’.

by SANDRA MURRAY CHESTER CHEER… Agents gathered for Bright’s latest workshop in Chester recently, hosted by members from Kirker Holidays, in Normanton, Yorkshire Hurtigruten, Veloso Tours, African Pride, Oceania Cruises, Inside To respond to any Japan, Cox and Kings, Mark Warner, Sunvil and Viking Cruises. of Sandy’s comments email Pictured getting the lowdown from Matt Spiller of InsideJapan are, [email protected] from the left: Kerry Ashley, Personal Travel Advisor; and Caroline Houghton and Joanne Hughes from Travel Places.

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Booking incentives

G Agents hAve the chance to head off on their own hoseasons holiday as part of AGENT TRAINING a new agent incentive campaign. two winners will receive a £500 holiday TRAVEL 2’S T2 Academy is voucher each to spend on a break of celebrating its fifth anniversary with a their choice. For a chance to win, ‘birthday bonanza’ giveaway of five agents need to register every booking mystery prizes worth £500 each. For a they confirm by August 13 by emailing chance to win, agents need to complete the booking reference along with their one training module before August 16. name, name and ABtA See travel2.com for full details. number to [email protected] by August 15. see hoseasons.co.uk/agents for details

G silverseA, in partnership with British Airways, is giving agents the opportunity to win a place on a fam trip this november. Departing new York on november 2, the winners will embark on a voyage to Bermuda, with four nights on the line's silver Whisper and British Airways' flights from gatwick. For a chance to win, agents should make a booking on any 2017, 2018 or 2019 voyage in conjunction with a British Airways flight by August 31 and email the booking reference to [email protected]. the company is also giving ten agents the chance to win a £250 treatwell gift Card this month as part of its silversea Advocates recognition programme. the treatwell gift Card can be used to purchase a variety of indulgent salon and spa treatments on treatwell.co.uk. WIN FOR WILSON...Dawn Wilson from Imp Travel in Agents will be chosen from a shortlist provided by the line's regional sales Lincoln was one of three agent winners and bagged managers, with each putting forward herself an Amazon Echo Dot in SeaWorld's June agents based on their sales competition, which ran online with Travel Bulletin. performances, marketing promotions or Samantha Clay from Thomas Cook in Gillingham, Kent events. the selected agents also have and Jenny Baxter from Travel Counsellors in Royston, the chance to experience the product Hertfordshire were the other two winners. themselves on a viP fam trip at the end of 2017. Details at silversea.com

G the CAYmAn islands Department of has teamed up with Funway holidays to offer agents making a booking of at least five nights with Agent offer the operator by August 31 the chance to win a place on a Cayman islands fam U BY UNIWORLD is giving agents the chance trip hosted by the operator later on to win an exclusive spot on an invitation-only this year. it has also created a new 'Sneak Peek' four-day Paris sailing between online training module in conjunction October 7-11. To enter, agents aged 21-45 with Online travel training (Ott). must create a 30-second video demonstrating Agents successfully completing the one- module course will automatically be how they are going to sell U, then tag entered into a separate prize draw to #ImGonnaSellU and post to the Facebook win a place on the same fam trip. page, Facebook.com/ubyuniworld by August 15.

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newsbulletin NEWS BITES

G THE BAHRAIN Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA) has launched its first online training programme designed to promote the destination and build awareness, educating the KANUHURA MALDIVES travel trade about Bahrain and its tourist attractions. Through it, the BTEA plans to develop a team of accredited travel trade A stunning re-opening with fresh new look and fantastic offers! SUPER SASAVAVER OFFER! Book by 30 Sept 17 and receive: experts with the necessary knowledge to act as effective 45% DISCOUNT ON ROOROOM RATEATES ambassadors in selling Bahrain as a destination of choice in VValidalidlid ffor stays t bbetween t now – 20 DDec 17! the UK market. Details at train-bahrain.co.uk G CIRQUE DU Soleil has opened its doors at PortAventura World until August 13. The circus troupe is holding twice-daily performances at 18:00 and 21:30. For details see portaventuraworld.com G STENA LINE will add extra North Sea freight capacity on its Rotterdam to Harwich route. The current RoRo ships, the Capucine and Severine, operating twice-daily from Europoort in the Netherlands and Harwich in the UK will be replaced by larger ships, the RoRo ships MV Misada and MV Misana, when COCOON MALDIVES their present charter contracts expire in January 2018. G SEPTEMBER 22 will see the opening of Zeitz MoCAA (Museum 2018 Rates released with Summer 2018 Offers now on sale: Book 90 days prior and receive 15 % Discount PLUS of Contemporary African Art) in South Africa - the biggest and FREE NIGHTS STAYAY 7 PAYAY 6 most significant museum to be built on the African continent ValidValid for selected stays between 01 May 18 – 31 Jul 18 for more than a century. With Table Mountain as its backdrop, the museum is a leap forward for contemporary African art and is a major design feat, with galleries carved from the historic Grain Silo Complex to create a unique space. G HOTELBEDS GROUP has strengthened its fast-growing Transfer & Activity Bank (TAB) business through a global partnership with Big Bus Tours, the largest privately owned operator of open-top sightseeing tours in the world. The long term deal is projected to deliver a significant increase in passengers for Big Bus Tours with consistent annual growth into the next decade. BATHAT LA MALDIVES G PARK PLAZA Hotels & Resorts, currently operating in the UK,

The perfect paradise for Divers and Snorkellers Germany, Croatia and the Netherlands by PPHE Hotel Group, A true Robinson Crusoe Maldives Experience has unveiled its new Employer Branding and Team Value 2018 Rates now on sale up to 31 Oct 18 including Exclusive Offersers GET IN EARLYLY FOR NEXT SUMMER AND DONT MISS OUT! Proposition as it expands its portfolio by nearly 900 rooms in London and embarks on major renovation projects across the Netherlands. G JUST A Drop has marked its 20th year with the launch of a new website and a brand refresh, to reflect the breadth and impact of its work, and the 1.3 million people whose lives have been transformed with access to clean water, health and sanitation programmes since the charity launched in 1998. See justadrop.org G SERENA HOTELS & Resorts' Serena Mountain Lodge in Kenya has a new kids club to support the brand's new child policy at CENTARA RAS FUSHI MALDIVES both Serena Mountain Lodge and Lake Elmenteita Serena Camp to allow children from the age of three years and above. RARATEATES NOWOW AVAVAIVAILABABLE UPP TOTO 30 APR 19 ! Activities include mini golf, mini basketball, magnetic darts, Special Discounts available for Super Early Bird Bookings Book 90 days prior and receive 15% Discount on Room Rates puzzles, toys, chalkboards, a hip hop mixer ValidValid for stays between 11 Apr 18 – 30 Apr 19! G REGISTRATION IS now open for the Cruise Lines International Association’s (CLIA) fourth annual Port and Destination NEW LOOK WEBSITE NOW ONLINE Summit. The event is scheduled a day before the Seatrade Europe Cruise & River on Tuesday September 5 and SRI LANKA - MAURITIUS - SEYCHELLES - INDIA - UAE - CARIBBEANC takes place in the historic port city of Hamburg, at the Over 230 hotels and a selection of tours available on ou ur website Hamburg Messe and Congress GmbH. The event, which is Including exclusive offers for Summer 2017 exclusive to members of the CLIA Executive Partner 2018 RA ATESTES NOW RELEASED Programme, will offer one-to-one pre-bookable business sessions with cruise lines’ decision makers, to generate further business openings for members. wwwwwww.osw.osborneandebel..com All above offers are subject to availability. TTererms & Conditio ons Apply travelbulletin.co.uk S03 TB 0408 2017 News 2 & Event Bulletin_Layout 1 02/08/2017 14:39 Page 11

puzzlebulletin Su Doku Win a £50 M&S voucher in thetravel bulletinSu Doku prize puzzle Where Am I?

Number: 030 A «

B «

C «

D «

Fill in all the squares in the grid so that each row, column and each of the 3 x 3 squares contains the digits 1-9. Once you have completed the puzzle, simply identify the numbers that relate to the letters, A, B, C and D then e-mail the solution, with your name, company name, and full postal address plus phone and ABTA number if applicable to: [email protected] Closing date for entries is Thursday, August 10th. Solution and new puzzle will appear next week. The winner for 14th July is Mark Hallam, Travel For Lord of the Rings fans seeking their own Middle-earth Counsellors in Bolton. adventure, this Tolkien tourism destination offers daily guided tours of the set where Frodo and Bilbo’s adventures began. July 14 Solution: A=7 B=5 C=4 D=3

Crossword Fill in the crossword to reveal the mystery location highlighted by the green squares.

Across Down 1. Fred. Olsen cruise ship (5,5) 1. Competitive triathlon brothers (8) 5. Rita, in the charts with Your Song (3) 2. Rent A Car company (5) 6. Darling Harbour is a popular recreation area 3. Florida destination, close to the major of this city (6) amusement parks (9) 9. Jomo Kenyatta, Nairobi International airport 4. Greece's largest island (5) code (3) 7. Spiritual leader of Tibet (5,4) 10. City home of Opera North (5) 8. Capital of Paraguay (8) 11. National flag-carrier of Lebanon (3) 13. Wildlife presenter, ___ Backshall (5) 12. Surrey town and racecourse (5) 14. Popular Middle East destination (5) 14. Gardeners' World presenter, Monty (3) 15. State capital of Montana (6) 16. Regional airline with HQ at East Midlands airport (3) 17. Jane Austen novel (10)

For the solution to the Crossword and Where Am I?

Number: 030 Number: Please see page 26

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eventbulletin Travel Bulletin recently cruised on over to the Crowne Plaza in Birmingham with some exciting cruise lines at the helm. Birmingham agents had the chance to learn more about this increasingly popular sector from the experts and the USPs of cruise operators and their ships. The evening culminated in a delicious dinner, fine wine and prize giveaways! Programme Sponsor #TBSHOWCASES

TIME FOR TEA…Andy Jacques from Debonaire Travel Limited is presented with an Afternoon Tea for two voucher at Coombe Abbey, courtesy of Cruise and Maritime Voyages’ Moira Gregson.

WINE WINNINGS…Saga Holidays’ Suzanne Warren presented a case STUDYING SCENEIC…Learning more about Scenic and Emerald of wine to prize winner Dave Allen from Andara Travel. Waterways are: (back row) Jason Veal, JTA Travel and Wendi Hardy from Scenic Tours with (front row), from the left: Emily Soden, Sue Kinton and Sally Simmons from Peakes Travel Elite.

PAMPERED BY UNIWORLD…Francine Mills from Not Just Travel was the VIKING VOUCHERS…Andrew Schweitzer (left) of winner of a L'Occitane gift set, courtesy of David Chidley from Uniworld. Viking Cruises presents Mark Rickwood from Time4aholiday with a £50 John Lewis gift voucher.

TRAVEL TABLE…From the left: Travel Counsellors’ Gwyneth Prosser and Suzanne Barney chat with Charlotte Brailsford of Princess CRUISE NEWS…Michelle Daniels from Voyages to Antiquity presents Cruises, along with Helen Davis, Joanne Kemp and Laura Kitson from the latest product updates to a room of attentive agents. Travel Counsellors.

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SHOPPING SPREE…Chantelle White from Norwegian Cruise Lines gifts Lee Chaplin from Not Just Travel with a £50 Love2Shop voucher.

SILVERSEA SUCCESS…Paul Fallows from Silversea Cruises presents Anna Farmer from Travel Counsellors with a £50 shopping voucher.

MEETING RIVIERA…From the left: Travel Counsellor Kate Copland, along with Errol Howe and Penny Howe from Travel Solutions Worldwide, and Travel Counsellors’ Ruth Pearson and Anna Farmer get together with Amanda Weir and Tamzin Bishop of Riviera Travel. CHATTING CORAL…Jan Jepsen (right) from Coral Expeditions chats with, from the left: Kim Davey, Travel Club Elite; Daniel Reed, Travel OCEANIA WIN…Jason Veal (left) from JTA Travel collected a £50 PA; and Elaine Price and Isabel of Lakin Spear Travels. Love2Shop voucher from Oceania Cruises’ Alex Farquharson. ADVENTURE TIME…Palvi Harvey from Not Just Travel was the lucky winner of a £500 voucher to be put towards the adventure of her choice, gifted by Stu Darnley from G Adventures.

Want to get in on the #TBSHOWCASES action? Join in the fun at our next Cruise Showcase in Norwich on September 20 and our Adventure & Activity Showcase in Newcastle on September 26. Reserve your place now by emailing [email protected]

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Industry Insight by...

Why analysing sales to understand growth areas can pay dividends says David Moon, head of business development at Advantage

FOLLOWING THE completion of our first-ever member operators with specialisms in a country or experience, to summer holiday booking survey, the results highlighted cater to other growing trends such as solo travel within a the importance of understanding sales patterns. Whilst group tour or adventure holidays. Ultimately, the data the survey results showed that many British holiday creates an understanding of what is profitable. makers are or have jetted off to islands across Europe, If agents have not historically sold long-haul holidays there were destinations that offer business’ the and wish to start, then they should always follow and opportunity of growth and diversity. become knowledgeable on FCO advice. By understanding customer booking patterns agents It is down to business owners to maximise can make informed decisions rather than go on a ‘gut’ opportunities for themselves and employees. We know at feeling. The data shows which countries or cities are Advantage that hosted evenings with tour operators and gaining traveller interest – the next trending places. This destinations work well as an educational and networking helps agents either add additional packages to a event – so don’t be afraid to speak to fellow companies to destination or remove it to refocus on new countries that pull resources to add value and attract customers. are becoming popular. Strategy is key to agents staying Analysing data regularly will show which packages or ahead during this economic period destinations aren’t selling and when the Office of National "Strategy is key to agents social media offers the best Statistics reported that household channels in which to promote these disposable income is being staying ahead during this deals for free or at a low cost. squeezed and so, customers may Social media also creates a reconsider the total to be spent on economic period..." platform in which agents can inform a holiday. and inspire customers to want to The Advantage summer holiday survey results showed explore a new place, by tapping into #bragability. that long-haul holidays are not as popular this year. By Agents are there to listen, give advice and make ideas noting this dip, companies can choose to improve their come to life. By understanding the market through data knowledge on specific destinations to give consumers agents can, through their rapport with clients, push confidence and alternative options. Agents can also go one customer boundaries to change their habits because you step further and make new relationships with tour have changed yours.

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Travel 2 sees SITUATED IN the gated community of Playa Mujeres outside of Cancun is Dreams Playa Mujeres Golf & Spa Resort. Surrounded by white sandy beaches and the Caribbean Sea, the resort offers a completely private popularity of and exclusive wedding event in the Preferred Club Paramount Suite for couples wanting to celebrate their honeymoons rise wedding in a spacious, ocean view terrace. The Dreams Paramount Wedding Package includes a rehearsal cocktail party, wedding ceremony, cocktail hour, reception and more in a private 460m.sq space. TRAVEL 2 HAS seen a double digit growth for honeymoons to South Saint Lucia showcases selection of enticing wedding packages Africa and triple digit OFTEN CITED as one of the most popular wedding islands in the Caribbean, Saint Lucia is growth in Tanzania. promoting a range of and wedding settings with a wide selection of Melanie Burton, the accommodation and packages. Its famous Piton mountains make for an iconic backdrop operator’s assistant for wedding photos and, with a fast-track wedding license, couples can get married from product manager for the day they arrive or simply apply for a license two days before the date of marriage. Africa, said: “The most As an example, Coconut Bay is offering a free wedding package performed in the popular multi-centre Oceanfront Gazebo for guests staying in the Concierge Junior Suite Harmony, or any of the honeymoons booked is a two-bedroom interconnecting Splash room categories for seven nights or longer. safari in Tanzania Alternatively, the adult-only Serenity at Coconut Bay – which opened in May - offers an combined with a beach stay all-inclusive holiday experience with a private enclave of 36 spacious suites, each with in Zanzibar, a Kenyan plunge pools and butler service. safari with a Mombassa Set in the sheltered west coast of St. Lucia, Marigot Bay Resort and Marina is a tranquil beach extension or a trip to resort for honeymooners with only six Penthouse Suites. Perched at the top of a hillside Cape Town followed by a with a private plunge pool, high-beamed ceiling, fully equipped kitchen, four-poster bed Kruger safari. and sweeping views over the hillside, the accommodation provides a home from home feel. “We recommend safari Couples can enjoy the service of a personal assistant, who will call ahead of arrival to honeymoons as a ‘once in a ensure that everything is arranged according to the couple’s preferences. With one lifetime’ experience with a , a café, two bars and a rum cave, couples on their honeymoon can also enjoy beach extension. Africa is signature dishes and culinary theatre with exclusive rum-tasting experiences, bistro dining the perfect place to discover at dusk and authentic tasting samples of the island. the ‘Big Five’ (buffalo, Meanwhile, Calabash Cove became an adult-only resort at the beginning of this year. elephant, lion, leopard and The hotel offers a variety of wedding packages such as ‘Lover’s Cove’ for $1,500, ‘Blissful rhino) and South Africa is Love’ for $3,500 and ‘Perfect Paradise’ for $7,000 and up to 20 guests. It also offers a ‘Pop home to the popular Kruger the question’ package. Visit calabashcove.com/wedding-packages National Park and the Eastern Cape, while neighbouring Kenya and Kulm Country Club now available for Alpine weddings Tanzania offer world-class THE KULM Country Club at the Kulm The Club is the new incarnation of the safari options.” Hotel St. Moritz is now available for hotel’s historic ice pavilion, which originally As an example of prices, a weddings of up to 150 people. opened in 1905 and has been refurbished at six-night Kenya Classic Set within the hotel’s extensive grounds, a cost of 12million Swiss francs. Safari (Superior) on a Kenya the new venue offers privacy and tranquillity Additionally, the main building of the safari combined with for couples to celebrate their nuptials. If it’s Kulm Hotel is home to six stylish event Zanzibar costs from £2,469 a small intimate wedding, the first floor rooms that have hosted wedding receptions per person. It includes four private dining room seats up to 20 - or the for up to 350 guests. A dedicated team of nights’ half-board stay at the restaurant can be hired exclusively for 40 event staff is on standby to take care of the Bluebay Beach Resort & Spa guests. For larger gatherings, newlyweds planning and the smooth running of the and flights from London. can hire the entire building for a cocktail special day. Visit travel2.com or call reception and a buffet for up to 150 people. For more information visit kulm.com 0800-022 4182.

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First wedding booked via BookYourWeddingDay.com conducted in Paphos JUNE 22 saw the successful execution of Cyprus' first civil ceremony booked via BookYourWeddingDay.com by Thomas Cook. The occasion saw a British couple choosing to exchange vows in the seaside town of Paphos in a ceremony conducted by its Mayor, Phedon Phedonos. Phedonos said: “It is with great pleasure that I conducted the first civil wedding that was booked through the innovative BookYourWeddingDay.com platform. We are proud that Paphos Town Hall was the first Town Hall to partake in this inspiring initiative, well aware of the great importance of promoting wedding tourism in the historic seaside town and recognising the multiple benefits that it bestows on our island and its economy as a whole.” For further details see bookyourweddingday.com

Amari Hotels and Resorts highlights romantic packages & hotel options AMARI HOTELS and Resorts is ensure celebrations go without a hitch. treatments; watersports; and a highlighting its wealth of wedding The property is able to tailor scuba dive centre for couples packages available at the Amari Phuket wedding packages to suit couples’ seeking adventure and a host of in Thailand and its Maldivian property, tastes with optional extras such as culinary options headlined by Amaya the Amari Havodda Maldives, as an ideal firework displays. Food Gallery. honeymoon destination for newly weds. After the initial excitement is over, A ‘Hot Deal package’ offers three Guests heading to Thailand for the newlyweds’ can then jet off to the nights in a Beach Villa on a full-board Amari Phuket can choose between a Maldives and slip into honeymoon basis for £1,300 based on two sharing. range of wedding packages, one of mode at the Amari Havodda Maldives. It includes free domestic flights and which is ‘The Gold Dream’ priced at The property features signature speed boat transfers for two adults approximately £1,956. The package Maldivian overwater villas, some and a 50% discount on treatments at covers all the wedding essentials complete with a private infinity pool; the Breeze Spa. including a personal wedding planner to a spa offering rejuvenating spa For more information visit amari.com

Malta showcases venues & welcomes legalisation of same sex marriages TOGETHER WITH sister island Gozo, Malta has a wide range of outdoor and indoor wedding venues suitable for small or large, gay or straight, civil or religious ceremonies. Same sex marriage has also just been legalised and, with more than 300 days of sunshine per year, blue skies are virtually guaranteed. For couples looking for a stylish wedding, the Hotel Phoenicia in Valletta provides the opportunity for clients to say their vows amid the garden blooms in a gazebo overlooking the Bastion Pool, with views over the harbour and Valletta’s medieval fortified walls, followed by cocktails and a gourmet meal on the terrace. Alternatively, the Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, Malta

Golden Sands is located on one of the island’s only sandy beaches making it a strong contender for those looking for a venue close to the Mediterranean sea, with Dunton Hot Springs is offering an alpine escape for couples set sand beneath the toes for the vows and access to hotel LA ROMANA • PUNTA CANA | M deep in the San Juan Mountains. Taking guests back to the facilities for the banquet. romanticised era of Colorado’s pioneers, the exclusive resort is in Other options are available from a variety of hotels a restored mining town which features hand-hewn log cabins, a saloon serving quality local produce, miles of hiking trails and including the Intercontinental, The Xara Palace Relais & soothing hot springs that can be enjoyed year-round. Chateaux and Palazzo Prince d’Orange. Visit duntonhotsprings.com or colorado.com for more information. For more information visit maltauk.com/weddings

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Weddings & Honeymoons in Paradise IT’S MORE THAN JUST THE ROMANTIC SETTINGS THAT MAKE DREAMS RESORTS & SPAS THE PERFECT PLACE TO SAY “I DO”. YOUR CLIENTS’ WEDDING, AT ANY OF OUR FAMILY-FRIENDLY OCEANFRONT SANCTUARIES, OFFERS ALL THE INCLUSIONS OF UNLIMITED-LUXURY®, AN ONSITE WEDDING COORDINATOR TO FREE WEDDINGS ENSURE EVERYTHING IS PERFECT, AND SO MUCH MORE! Each of our resorts hotels offers a complimentary symbolic wedding package, when booking the relevant room category and duration required, containing all the essentials you need for your special day.

UPGRADED WEDDING PACKAGES Celebrate your special day with your family and friends! We offer upgraded wedding packages for up to 25 guests. Additional inclusions are a cocktail hour and dinner reception, floral arrangements, makeup and hairstyling, spa treatments and much more.

HONEYMOONS, ANNIVERSARIES & RENEWAL OF VOWS Already married? Extend the celebrations by adding one of the honeymoon or anniversary packages to your stay. Extra special touches include breakfast in bed and a bottle of sparkling wine to help you celebrate in style.

CONTACT YOUR PREFERRED FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO BOOK. BECOME A MASTER AGENT TODAY AND TAKE ADVANTAGE OF INCREDIBLE INDUSTRY RATES, INCENTIVES AND MORE AT AMRAGENTS.CO.UK

EXPERIENCE UNLIMITED-LUXURY ® FOR COUPLES AND COUPLES WITH CHILDREN IN COSTA RICA | DOMINICAN REPUBLIC: LA ROMANA • PUNTA CANA | MEXICO: CANCUN HUATULCO • LOS CABOS • NUEVO VALLARTA • PLAYA MUJERES • PUERTO AVENTURAS • RIVIERA CANCUN • TULUM | PANAMA | PUERTO RICO (OCT 2019)

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Soma Bay unveils Romantic Delights package THE KEMPINSKI Somabay Red Sea Resort in Egypt has launched a Romantic Delights package for honeymooners, starting from £158.86 per night for two. Upon arrival guests will be treated to a bed of roses GRECOTEL turns on the charm for Greek weddings and a strawberry cake to WHETHER CLIENTS are looking for a For those looking for more of a royal enjoy as they settle into their beachfront hotel, a break in the heart of affair, the Corfu Imperial makes for a honeymoon. To make the Athens or something a bit more remote for good honeymoon option, while the trip even more special, an their wedding or honeymoon, GRECOTEL is Mykonos Blu offers access to one of aroma bath, private in-room highlighting its range of more than 30 five- the most exclusive beaches in breakfast and romantic star city and resort hotels. Greece, Psarou. dinner can also be arranged, Cape Sounio offers a beach backdrop for The hotel group offers a range of while newlyweds can take weddings and honeymoon on the Athenian wedding honeymoon package options at advantage of an exclusive Riviera, with the option to arrive by limo, all its hotels, including chilled sparkling limousine transfer to and yacht or even helicopter to turn on the style wine on arrival in the room, Melokarido (a from Hurghada Airport. in the shadow of the Temple of Poseidon. Greek tradition of honey and walnuts, Beyond the hotel, Alternatively, clients might like a stay symbolising fertility and the sweetness of Somabay offers a wealth of at the White Palace with the option to life), a deluxe breakfast served in the activities for couples such as visit Agreco Farm for a classic Cretan room, bed decoration with sugared an indulgent ‘Together Time’ village experience, where they can say almonds and scented rose petals, massage at the Cascades their vows in a traditional Greek chapel in massages for two in the spa and candlelit Spa & Thalasso, dive trips the island’s countryside. dinners to name a few. and kitesurfing.

British Virgin Islands teams with ITC for fairytale Caribbean getaways THE BRITISH Virgin Islands (BVI) in the in a Sea View Cottage on a full-board A stay costs from £2,675 per person, Caribbean has teamed up with the basis, Economy flights from Gatwick, which includes a saving of up to £535 Inspiring Travel Company to launch inter-island flights and water per person, along with seven nights in a four exclusive and limited edition transfers. Guests will receive one Garden Room on a full-board basis, offers created specifically with couples Garden of Eden private dining Economy flights from Gatwick, inter- in mind. experience including Champagne, island flights and water transfers. With an increasing number of flight worth US$250 and can be booked up Couples can also select one option options, getting to the BVI is easier to October 31. from a trio of bespoke experiences to than it has been before and whether For couples not content on lying by enhance their stay including a gourmet it’s a sleepy, slow-paced luxury a pool, Bitter End Yacht Club on Virgin picnic on the beach; an Out of Bounds honeymoon, a little bit of adventure or Gorda is one of the Caribbean’s sailing lesson with an instructor and a a combination of the two, the leading watersport resorts. Lying on a private beach dinner. Bookings must be destination has it all, with the added stretch of mile-long shorefront, made by August 12 for travel by benefit of idyllic surroundings. accessible only by boat and with one of December 22. A 20-minute boat ride from the the most secluded, deep-water Offers are also available for Peter airport, Guana Island is an 850-acre, harbours in the Caribbean, it is ideal Island Resort & Spa, the largest private privately-owned island with seven for couples looking to frolic in the surf, island in the British Virgin Islands and secluded beaches, beautiful scenery snorkel, scuba dive, windsurf and sail. Sir Richard Branson’s Necker Island. and space for just 35 guests. Available There’s also a choice of dining options, For more information visit through the operator from £3,295 per including an English pub with live inspiringtravelcompany.co.uk/campai person, the offer includes seven nights entertainment on most evenings. gns/britishvirgin-islands

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Maritim highlights facilities for couples to get hitched without a hitch in Mauritius WITH MORE than 27 years' experience in delivering bespoke weddings and set against a 25-hectare backdrop of tropical vegetation, the five-star Maritim Resort & Spa Mauritius features two dedicated and exclusive Bridal Preparation Suites in its Tropical Flower Spa. The spa provides comprehensive beauty treatments, hairdressing, manicures and pedicures and make-up facilities and also features double cabins and garden suites for couple’s massages and unique pampering treatments. The property also organises pre-wedding ‘Spa Parties’ alongside a waterfall, wet treatment areas, saunas, steam baths, a whirlpool and outside shower. A special oasis within the wellness complex is also reserved for honeymooners. A wide range of ceremonial venues are available at the hotel, with the option to arrive by horse to the Beach Gazebo, overlooking the Turtle Bay marine park. The property offers five which can be booked exclusively for wedding receptions; these include Château Mon Désir which is housed in a colonial style mansion overlooking the ‘Historical Ruins of Balaclava’, and which serves fine dining cuisine. Specially designed fireworks can also be arranged prior to dinner, ensuring the bride and groom enter married life with a bang. Bridal parties can also choose a more informal reception with a beach barbecue following pre-dinner cocktails at the La Marée beach restaurant. For honeymooners, the resort offers a dedicated package which includes free accommodation for the bride (blackout dates apply), a complimentary bottle of sparkling wine on arrival, a romantic candlelit dinner and a free room upgrade, subject to availability, at the time of check in. For more information visit maritim.mu

Allow us to be part of your dreams

Sandos Hotels & Resorts is the ideal place, the only thing missing is the perfect couple. Live your special day in Mexico and choose your Sandos experience: beach, eco or lifestyle. Our unique venues will create unforgettable memories.

Call Center: +44 20 305 137 68 [email protected] [email protected] Sandosweddings.com S05 TB 0408 2017 Xmas Markets_Layout 1 01/08/2017 16:32 Page 20

FFIVE-STAAR CHR RISTMA AS MMARKETT RIVER R CRUIS SES

Discover the ma agical ambience of German ermany’s traditional Christmas markets withw their host of un ique, inspired gift ideas, eas, plus the stunn ning Rhineland in its wintry splendour.

ᅚ Return travel by Eurostar or fly fromm 8 regional airports** ᅚ Full bo oard on brand new fivve-star ships ᅚ Visit 4 Christmas Ma rkets; Frankfurt, Rude esheim, Koblenz & Cologne ᅚ Guideed tours of Frankfurt & Koblenz 5 ayddays frroom onl ly y £699pp

ToTo book cacall all reservations on: 001283 74437 70

or book on nline at: w.rw.rivierratravel.co.uk/agennts 3430 Riviera Travel boo king terms and conditions apply. PricesP correct at time of print. *Supplements app ply. Selected departures December r 2017. S05 TB 0408 2017 Xmas Markets_Layout 1 01/08/2017 16:32 Page 21 christmasmarkets

OVER THE FESTIVE season in Copenhagen, Tivoli Gardens invites guests into a winter wonderland where Christmas stalls can be found dotted around the gardens, interspersed with Christmas trees that light up the evening sky, whilst the aroma of Danish Christmas cookies, honey biscuits and cinnamon fill the air. The market will run between November 19 and December 31. Details at visitdenmark.co.uk

Jet2 offers largest Christmas Market programme for 2017 Swiss markets, JET2CITYBREAKS IS running its biggest The company can also offer a range of ever programme of Christmas Market flight-only and flight and hotel options to a parades & railways weekend breaks with 12 available for 2017. range of other Christmas market from Railtrail Included in the winter wonderland offering destinations from across its network of RAILTRAIL’S are the European capitals of Berlin, nine UK bases. With almost 110,000 seats, FORTHCOMING festive Copenhagen, Prague and Vienna, as well as an increase of 36% from last year, offering includes a new the popular German favourite - and home packages are available to festive locations eight-day Swiss St Nicholas to one of the largest Christmas Markets in including Budapest, Krakow and Salzburg Snow Train Adventure. Europe - Munich. and festive shopping trips to New York. The trip features To make the most of the Christmas As an example of packages, a two-night Hergiswil’s village festivities, each two-night break departs on a breakfast stay for two at the three-star Christmas Market, Friday morning and returns on a Sunday Austria Trend Beim Theresianum in Einsiedeln’s famous evening. The operator reports that the Vienna costs from £249 per person, based market set beneath a programme has proved a success among on a December 15 departure from monastery and Lucerne’s independent travel agents, with the breaks Manchester. Clients can visit the Christmas Market, completely selling out in 2016. This year’s Christkindl Markt, 20 markets set in the appropriately located Christmas market trips also depart from palace courtyard, and grand squares of inside the railway station. more UK bases, including Leeds Bradford, Vienna; browse the selection of silk The tour, which departs Newcastle, Belfast International, Manchester scarves and hand painted ornaments at London St Pancras and has and Jet2.com’s new base, Birmingham. the Schönbrunn Market; and sample prices leading in at £1,375, Flight-only options are available from £111 roasted chestnuts to get into the also includes a snowbound return or flights and hotel can be booked Christmas spirit. train journey over the together with Jet2CityBreaks from £259, and For further information call 0800-408 5587 Brunig Pass, the Rigi secured for a £60 per person deposit. or visit tradesite.jet2holidays.com Mountain Railway, the Titlis revolving cable car, Lake Trafalgar launches seven-day festive holiday in Russia Lucerne’s steamboats and two St Nicholas parades. TRAFALGAR’S NEW autumn, winter and spring 2017/18 programme features 34 Rob Carroll, the itineraries including a new winter trip to Russia designed to showcase the company’s commercial wonders of Russia at Christmas. manager, said: “Our aim is With departures throughout December, a seven-day Festive St Petersburg and to provide interesting tours Moscow trip begins in St Petersburg where guests can visit iconic sights such as that can’t be found the Tsar's Winter Palace, Nevsky Prospekt, St. Isaac's Cathedral and the anywhere else. We have Hermitage Museum. The journey then continues in Moscow via high-speed train great relationships with through scenic winter landscapes in rural Russia. Moscow’s annual Christmas agents and appreciate their festival is complete with grand scale ice-rinks, snow sculptures and light help in increasing the installations. Prices start from £1,495 per person. coverage of our family Agents can also save customers up to 7.5% across all itineraries in the business’ unique tours.” operator’s 2017/18 programme with early payment discounts of £378 per couple For details email when booked and paid in full by August 25. [email protected] Visit trafalgar.com for more details.

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christmasmarkets Insight discovers the magic of Christmas in Russia AS PART of Insight Vacations’ ‘Seasons’ brochure is a collection of European Christmas Market holidays, including a new festive adventure in Russia. The operator will showcase the Christmas Markets of St. Petersburg and Moscow on an eight- day ‘Easy Pace Russia with Christmas Markets’ itinerary, with departures in December into January 2018. Prices for the new Russia winter trip start from £1,526 per person based on twin share which A-ROSA promotes Rhineland Christmas cruise with GRJ includes seven nights’ CUSTOMERS LOOKING to enjoy a variety of Christmas markets in different cities whilst on hotel accommodation, daily a short break might like to consider embarking on a festive river cruise this December. buffet breakfast, regional Great Rail Journeys is offering a six-day Rhine package on A-ROSA Brava with the dining experiences, opportunity to explore the markets of Strasbourg, Cologne and Mainz en-route. sightseeing, high-speed The package includes Eurostar travel from St Pancras to Brussels and then an onward Sapsan train , train to Cologne. The first night is spent in Cologne with the chance to enjoy up to six private VIP door-to-door markets across the city, before boarding the ship on day two and sailing toward transfers and a dedicated Mannheim to explore. On day four, the ship arrives in Kehl where customers have the tour director. option to visit Strasbourg and its Christmas market, which has been held around the Early payment discounts cathedral since 1570. The final stop is Mainz on day five which is famous for its of 7.5% per person are also Romanesque cathedral of St Martin, which has been the backdrop to the Mainz available for bookings paid Christmas market for more than 200 years. It offers more than 100 stalls and is the final in full before August 24. stop before the ship heads back to Cologne. Call 0800-533 5625 or visit Priced from £870 per person, the package includes four nights on A-ROSA Brava with all insightvacations.com for meals and drinks, overnight in Cologne and Eurostar travel, a guided of more details. Cologne and the services of a . Call 0800-240 4470 or go to greatrail.com to find out more.

Simply Sweden combines Christmas and Sami culture on new trip SIMPLY SWEDEN is offering an exclusive festive experience with its new break; Jokkmokk Christmas Market. A key highlight of the three-night escorted trip is a new Christmas Market in the town of Jokkmokk which, like the world-renowned February Winter Market, is a place where the Sami showcase their traditions and sell handicrafts. For more than 400 years, Jokkmokk has been a meeting place of the indigenous people, where they still come together in winter to trade handmade crafts, clothing, food and jewellery. Launched last year, the Christmas Market is now an annual event aimed at helping the Sami preserve their endangered nomadic way of life. A far cry from the usual festive market experience, the Jokkmokk Christmas gathering is a way for travellers to gain a deeper insight into this fascinating culture as well as an opportunity to shop for some more unusual and authentic gifts. In line with its policy, the operator is offering a maximum of 16 places on the December trip, which is now available to book. Other highlights of the new break include the chance to have Sami guides explain the customs and lifestyle of this reindeer-herding people, and a wilderness’ meal that takes guests on a culinary journey through a range of seasonal Lapland delicacies. Northern Lights , snowmobiling and cross-country skiing are also on offer. Guests will stay in the traditional Hotel Akerlund, which received its first guests in 1928 and has been the hub of the Jokkmokk cultural scene ever since. The local restaurant Viddernas Hus will be the venue for the wilderness meal, where reindeer, moose, mountain fish and capercaillie are on the menu. Free time is also incorporated into the itinerary and Jokkmokk’s location just inside the Arctic Circle makes it a good base for exploring the frozen lakes and snow-covered Taiga – the boreal forest – where thousands of reindeer roam. Priced from from £1,375 per person, based on two sharing, this includes all flights, transfers, three nights’ half-board at Hotel Akerlund and a full-day Sami cultural experience. The departure date is set for December 7. For more information visit simplysweden.co.uk or call 01427-700115.

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Arena Rail Holidays discovers trio of festive markets ARENA RAIL Holidays still has availability on a number of festive breaks for 2017, including a four- The River Cruise Line has expanded its selection of Christmas market cruises on the four-star MS day itinerary to the Liège, Serenity this year to include a popular German Christmas Markets route along the Rhine, with stops in Valkenburg and Aachen Rudesheim, Cologne and Bonn. The four-day cruise leads in at priced from £399 per person, departing Christmas markets. on November 29 and December 2. Visit rivercruiseline.co.uk The festive tour is based in Liège throughout and takes in a trio of markets, Christmas Cribs & seasonal festivities in Slovenia starting with the Liège FESTIVITIES COMMENCE and colourful Christmas lights illuminate Ljubljana’s city centre from Christmas Village, followed November 17, making the city an attractive option for clients seeking a festive city break. by a day excursion to the Whilst there travellers can explore the Christmas markets that run throughout spa town of Aachen in December with the smell of roasted chestnuts and mulled wine in the air and quaint Germany, where guests wooden stalls adorned with ornaments, lights and authentic crafts and local specialties. will have the opportunity to For details see visitljubljana.com feast on sweet gingerbread Alternative winter fairy tale options include festive events taking place throughout and warming glühwein. December and January at Lake Bled. This year the Festive Promenade returns from Another full day December 1, with lakeside stands featuring festive gifts, Slovenian delicacies and drinks excursion takes in historic from the country’s wine region of Gorenjska (see bled.si/en). Valkenburg for more Slovenia’s second largest city, Maribor, is also hosting a range of events over the winter markets in the caves season including a festive fair and market. Events include a live nativity in Pivola, ice- beneath the town and a skating plus Christmas and New Year concerts. Festive fairs take place in the old town Christmas parade that centre, with artists and masters of cottage industries presenting their arts and crafts, as passes through the centre well as antique collectors from across Slovenia showcasing a selection of gifts for the of the town with decorated forthcoming festive holidays. Visit maribor-pohorje.si floats and costumed Meanwhile, Postonjna Cave will also be getting into the seasonal spirit by putting on the dancers. The trip draws to biggest live nativity scene set in an underground cave. Using light and music to create a a close on the last day with surreal Christmas atmosphere, visitors can explore the cave (which was recently extended a visit to the ‘Disneyland by 3.5km following the discovery of new passages) and meet the rare proteus dragon Paris Ice Dreams’ festival babies, which were born in June last year. Visit postojnska-jama.eu/en in Liège. Prices lead in at £369 per person with departures on November 27 and December 3, based on two sharing breakfast accommodation in Liège. It includes Eurostar travel from London, onward rail connection to Liège, all transport and excursions, plus the services of a tour manager. For more information visit arenatravel.com or call 01858-435644.

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middleeast Muhurraq, Bahrain

Dubai lays foundations for the world’s tallest building THE FOUNDATIONS have now been laid for The Tower which is set to become a new and iconic landmark in Dubai’s skyline. It is set to open in 2020 and is located at the heart of the Dubai Creek Harbour, ten minutes from Dubai International Airport. Now that the pile foundations Bahrain’s Muhurraq to be crowned Islamic Capital of Culture have been completed, the THANKS TO its significant contribution to encompasses 17 listed buildings first structural facets will the preservation of Arab and Islamic including a fortress, residences of wealthy soon become visible. culture in both local and international merchants, shops, storehouses and It is planned that the arenas, Muhurraq in Bahrain is to be a mosque. structure will include The appointed with the title of Islamic Capital The site is the last remaining complete Pinnacle Room and VIP of Culture in 2018. example of the cultural tradition of Observation Garden Decks, Muhurraq is the second largest city in pearling and the wealth it generated at a designed to recreate the Bahrain and the second largest island in time when the trade dominated the Gulf splendour of the ‘Hanging the archipelago kingdom. The title is in economy. Restoration work on the listed Gardens of Babylon,’ one of light of the conservation projects being buildings has been progressing over the the Seven Wonders of the carried out across the city, particularly that last four years and the trail is scheduled to Ancient World. of the Pearling Trail. be completed in line with Muhurraq being For further information go to The trail, which earned UNESCO World named the Capital of Islamic Culture visitdubai.com Heritage status four years ago, for 2018.

Premier Holidays explores highlights of in new tour for 2018 PREMIER HOLIDAYS has unveiled a new Highlights of Oman package for 2018. The seven-night privately has been designed to enable travellers to gain an insight into local culture, with visits to historic towns and villages plus off-the-beaten-track adventures to see mountain and desert vistas. Guests will spend one night in , a night in Ras Al Junaiyz, one night at the 1,000 Nights Camp, a night in Jabal Akhdar, two nights in followed by another night in Muscat. Tour activities include a visit to the historic city of Sur, a visit to one of the Bedouin tribe houses to learn about their lifestyle and a visit to Jebel Shams - the highest peak in the range which offers views over Oman's equivalent of the Grand Canyon. The tour includes breakfast accommodation, lunch and dinner on selected days, private transfers, flights, sightseeing and the services of an English speaking guide. The tour is one of several new additions in the Middle East in the operator’s 2018 Faraway brochure and agents can earn between £25 and £150 for every inclusive Middle East booking, dependent on the booking value. Visit trade.premierholidays.co.uk for more information.

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middleeast

Jordan’s Shaumari Wildlife Reserve reopens following refurb THE SHAUMARI Wildlife Reserve is again welcoming the public this summer following a five- year maintenance and refurbishment programme. Originally opening in 1975, the wildlife protection reserve was the PETTITTS TRAVEL has created a new 12-day ‘Enchanting Oman’ tour. Guests start their journey in first of its kind in Jordan Muscat before heading into Oman’s mountainous interior, a region famed for its military and is home to some of the architecture, to visit the castles at Jabrin and , before continuing to the historic town of Nizwa rarest species in the and the desert dunes of the Wahiba Sands. The tour ends with time to relax on the coast outside of Muscat. Priced from £3,470 per person, it includes flights, a private car and driver, all hotel Middle East including Oryx, accommodation and taxes, some meals and sightseeing with guides. Visit pettitts.co.uk for details. gazelles, hyena, Imperial Eagles and onagers. Guests can explore the Observation Deck ready for October launch story of the reserve inside A NEW observation deck located close to the summit of Jebel Jais, the UAE’s highest peak, its renovated visitor centre, is close to completion and due to open to the public in October. before taking in the sights Developed by the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, the Jebel Jais and sounds of the semi- Observation Deck will offer a series of viewing platforms from which visitors can desert landscapes on a experience the vistas, bird life, flora and fauna of the emirate’s Al Hajar Mountain range. In guided Oryx Safari Tour. addition, the observation deck will serve as a base camp for hikers and bikers looking to Nasr Al-Tamimi from the test themselves on the rugged mountain range. Royal Society for the Haitham Mattar, CEO of the tourism authority, said: “The deck will offer stunning sea Conservation of Nature, and mountain views and will also feature a versatile events arena and a permanent area Wild Jordan, said: for food trucks serving guests who want to experience the fresh mountain air in “Shaumari Wildlife temperatures that are traditionally around 10 degrees lower than the UAE average.” Reserve is a fantastic As part of its Vision 2019 tourism strategy, which aims to attract one million visitors by experience for tourists the end of next year, the tourism authority is investing in a range of adventure and visiting Jordan as it wellness products which leverage the emirate’s array of natural assets, with a key focus on showcases the diversity of Jebel Jais and the surrounding area. our country and passion for conservation - whether it’s wildlife, history or Gold Medal combines city stay & desert adventure in Dubai culture. Every visitor that GOLD MEDAL has packaged a stay in Dubai hotel and enjoy a camel ride to the camp comes will also be helping with an overnight desert safari for clients and an overnight stay in comfortable, to safeguard this important looking to experience the city and who want furnished tents. There will also be a reserve as money will be to go on an Arabian adventure. barbecue dinner in the gazebos or ‘majilis’, reinvested in breeding Tricia Birmingham, the operator’s senior which includes grilled meats, fresh salads, programmes to continue product manager for the Middle East and sweets, hand-picked beer and wine, a reviving species that are Indian Ocean, said: “I would recommend chance to see the Arabian Oryx in the Dubai endangered or rare.” spending three nights at Manzil Downtown desert conservation resort and also try the Situated south east of Hotel on the Sheikh Mohammed Bin desert sport of fat biking.” Amman, the centre is open Rasheed Boulevard which is within walking Including flights from London, a four- daily to visitors. Advanced distance of the Burj Khalifa, Dubai night stay at the four-star Manzil Downtown booking is recommended Fountains and the attractions of Dubai Mall Dubai in a deluxe room, including breakfast, as spaces on the Oryx with its aquarium and ice-rink. Whilst in costs from £999 per person. The overnight Safari tours are limited to Dubai, it is also worth visiting the many safari is also included and the price is valid just seven people on souks to get a flavour for life in the city. for travel between September 10 and each excursion. “The perfect combination of a city stay is October 25. For more information see an overnight Arabian Adventure desert Visit goldmedal.co.uk or call visitjordan.com and safari. Clients will be picked up from the 0800-014 7777 for details. wildjordan.com

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Travel Bulletin is published by ABU DHABI Ports is celebrating the close of its most successful cruise season at Abu Alain Charles Publishing (Travel) Ltd Dhabi Cruise Terminal with a recorded 40% increase in vessel calls and a 48% University House, 11-13 Lower Grosvenor Place overall increase in passengers from last year. The 2016/17 cruise season saw more London, SW1W 0EX than 345,662 tourists visit the emirate, up from 232,605 in 2015/16. Likewise, vessel numbers increased from 115 to 161. Abu Dhabi Port’s two cruise destinations are Printed by: Buxton Press Zayed Port and the Sir Bani Yas Island Cruise Beach, which was launched during last Subscriptions are £125 p.a. £195 overseas year’s season as the first dedicated cruise beach and eco-tourism stopover. ISSN: 0956-2419

020 7834 6661 puzzlesolutions Crossword: Across: 1. BLACK WATCH, 5. ORA, 6. SYDNEY, 9. NBO, 10. LEEDS, 11. MEA, 12. EPSOM, 14. DON, 15. HELENA, 16. BMI, 17. PERSUASION. @TravelBulletin Down: 1. BROWNLEE, 2. ALAMO, 3. KISSIMMEE, 4. CRETE, 7. DALAI LAMA, 8. ASUNCION, 13. STEVE, 14. DUBAI. Highlighted Word: BRASILIA TravelBulletin Where Am I?: Hobbiton, , New Zealand.

We asked our staff the following question this week: What really annoyed you most recently?

Jeanette Ratcliffe Oliver Barton Publisher Events & Sales Administrator [email protected] [email protected] The gutter falling off from my roof Commuters thinking they are much more important and pushing to get on public transport. Lauretta Wright Editor Nicky Valsamakis [email protected] Design Team Leader Getting a parking ticket even though I'd parked [email protected] on private property. Johnny & Tyla from LoveIsland

Adam Potter Miriam Brtkova Editorial Assistant Designer [email protected] [email protected] Falling ill last week A pigeon getting stuck in my chimney

Paul Scudamore Lucia Mathurin Contributing Editor Design Apprentice Embarking on a simple DIY job at home that should've taken [email protected] 30-mins max - turned into all day. Too much rain for summer

Simon Eddolls Nelly Mendes Sales Director Production [email protected] [email protected] Losing to Pakistan in the Champions Trophy. Adam always asking me staff questions when I’m at my most busy! Tim Podger Account Manager - Far East Happy birthday [email protected] Birthday Bill, soon to be tanning himself Matt Gill pink on a Balinese beach (hopefully it Senior Account Manager won’t rain this time!) Enjoy a cold cider [email protected] on us Bill and many happy returns as My shampoo washing out the ink on my work receipts. you celebrate your 40th birthday (again).

Matthew Weinreb Bill Coad Sales Executive Account Manager [email protected] [email protected] Council tax. Forever paying out for my car

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cas a w d e I en o nvites you to att h orking eve S gent netw ning Cruise An a

Wednesday 20th September The Mercure Hotel, Norwich Travel Bulletin is excited to announce our latest Cruise Showcase, a fun and informative agent networking evening focused on leading cruise suppliers. Agents, you will have the opportunity to learn about a variety of cruise lines and ships, extraordinary onboard entertainment and accommodation options available in this increasingly popular escape.

You will enjoy delicious food and drinks, great entertainment and a fabulous free prize draw with a number of fantastic prizes to be won.

Registration: 18:00 hours Networking & Presentations: 18:30 hours Dinner, Entertainment & Prizes: 20:00 hours Carriages: 21:30 hours

To confirm your place at this amazing event, email the names of up to 5 staff members by Monday 11th September 2017 to: [email protected] or telephone: 020 7834 6661 for more information.

Headline Sponsors Sponsor

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g tin ra rs ea Y Celeb1 2

Travel Bulletin Star Awards 2017 finalists revealed...

Tickets for the Travel Bulletin Star Awards Gala Dinner on 4th September at London’s 5* Langham Hotel are selling fast! Email [email protected] to confirm your place now.

www.travelbulletin.co.uk/starawards/finalists #TBStarAwards

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