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TRAVELinc Memo 14 February 2017 1 TUE The awesome 2017 2017/18 14 FEB Ancient Kingdoms Holidays ANTARCTICA 2017 brochure has arrived! Your personal magazine Your personal magazine Rediscover the Innovative classics in the ISSUE twice a week twice a week Mediterranean, Middle East & Northern BROCHURE 979 Africa. Explore in more travel styles MEMO MEMO including Boutique Small Group Tours, Luxury Experiences and the special Select out now! & Mix concept. Reveal new destinations – Best Broker Cyprus, Malta, Spain & Portugal, Qatar… Order here> Call the experts: 0508 100 111 Brand [email protected] www.innovative-travel.com ... Live for today 2014, 2015
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Doubtful Sound Tour SA visas – they need to 7 - 13 April small group tours for mature travellers go online, says TAANZ Queenstown A salve has been applied to the South African visa situation Arrowtown with the establishment of a second application centre – but Manapouri Send me there is still a way to go, says TAANZ. Doubtful Sound a free The South African High Commission has announced VFS Wanaka brochure Global will run a centre in Auckland from today. The facility Haast Pass is in addition to the one being run in Wellington. Franz Josef Glacier This development comes on the back of a New Zealand Government ruling that South African visitors now require Freecall 0800 662 462 www.moatrek.co.nz visas following alleged concerns about counterfit passports – and the subsequent reciprocal action from the republic’s government, which meant New Zealanders intending to visit South Africa needed to visit the South African Consulate in PORT VILA Vanuatu Wellington in person to obtain visas. AND BEYOND The move created an outcry. Andrew Olsen, chief executive CLICK HERE of the Travel Agents Association of New Zealand (TAANZ), Everything you need for a wide range of Rajasthan tours was particularly vocal, describing the situation as a to know to sell Vanuatu schelmozzle after visiting the centre in the capital. • Accommodation In response to the latest announcement, Olsen says the • Activities • Dining new offering is an improvement but TAANZ is still hopeful • The Outer Islands the New Zealand government will change its decision, particularly given the move has resulted in soaring visa Order your copy by emailing 0508 396 842 costs for Kiwis. Requests to meet with the government have [email protected] Best tour operator for India in Australasia For a sneak preview CLICK HERE Continued on page 3 ECONOMY BUSINESS * * EUROPE from pp pp NZ 1303 return NZ 5503 return * The fare shown is for travel to Stockholm in low season. Fares also available to other points in Europe, visit : www.thaiairways.co.nz for more info. TRAVELinc Memo 14 February 2017 2 News
Fathom Asia changes hands At the new World Travellers shop in Nelson, Lynette Stevenson, Jenny Jackson, Alex Chisnall and Sheila Lyons Fathom Asia has been sold to Francis States, sports, events and shows) and Travel Marketing, filling a new niche for Orton International (Europe) under the Auckland headquartered company, its umbrella. says FTM managing director Tony Smith. ‘We’ve got cruising well covered Francis Travel Marketing is a well- and we offer an extensive land-based established specialist tourism marketing range worldwide, which will be well campaign and has boutique wholesalers complemented by Fathom Asia’s AIM Holidays (Australia and United suppliers.’ ‘This gives us more opportunities for inter-selling between companies and brands.’ Smith and Bruce Church, who has World Travellers opens up shop in Nelson owned Fathom Asia for the past three A new World Travellers has gone up in supply channels and the GDS (global years, says the new ownership came Nelson, with travel agent Alex Chisnall distribution system) tender, a real into effect yesterday. Church and Val and her team joining the group. year of administration if you like,’ says Minter, who works with Fathom Asia, Chief executive officer Eden Stevenson. will continue to provide assistance to Stevenson says it is the beginning of ‘This year for World Travellers it is FTM while it takes over the business. some exciting times ahead for World about maintaining our relevance in the Tim Butcher of Travel Directions (right) and Travellers. market place and growing the group as Tony Smith of Francis Travel Marketing ‘Last year for us it was about our a whole.’ toast to FTM’s purchase of Fathom Asia Agents can see Adventure World hits the road Got some FRI FRI 19 DEC 19 DEC Gary in advance Adventure World is next month conjunction with Lindblad Expeditions, 2014shoes to ll? 2014 ISSUE Your personal magazine ISSUE Your personal magazine South Sea Cruises Group is inviting hosting its Our World Your Way 2017 Exodus Travels, TrekAmerica, Star 687 twice a week MEMO 687 twice a week MEMO Auckland-based travel agents to share a National Roadshow in Auckland, Clippers, Exo Travel, Oman Tourism, Advertise your job vacancy in movie and a laugh on Wednesday, 15 March. Bay of Plenty, Wellington and Rocky Mountaineer, South African FRI FRI 19 DEC 19 DEC The group, which incorporates South Sea Christchurch. Airways and LATAM Airlines. The Memo. Two 2014 2014 Your personal magazine ISSUE Your personal magazine ISSUE Cruises, Blue Lagoon Cruises, Yasawa Island The roadshow is designed to give agents It arrives in Auckland on 6 March, insertionstwice a week qualifyMEMO 687 twice a week MEMO 687 Holidays, Awesome Adventures Fiji and an opportunity to learn more about the before going to Tauranga the following for a free listing on our website and Vinaka Fiji Volunteering, is hosting a special company’s offerings, including information day and Wellington on 8 March facebook page. preview of Gary of the Paci c before the on trips across Africa, Canada, Asia, before winding up in Christchurch on Your personal magazine Your personal magazine twice a week MEMO twice a week MEMO movie’s public release. South America and the USA. 9 March. Contact Cherie on 0275 403 300 The preview will be at Event Cinemas in It will also offer agents chances to Newmarket. RSVP by Friday, 7 March, to win prizes. www.adventureworld.co.nz/ [email protected]. MEMO The roadshow is being hosted in 2017-roadshows Your personal magazine twice a week MEMO CALL CALL NOW NOW Mainland or Island Hopping in Greece? Call us Your personal magazine twice a week 05080508 396 396 842842 www.exoticholidays.co.nzwww.exoticholidays.co.nz [email protected] [email protected] TRAVELinc Memo 14 February 2017 3 News Adventure World SA visas – they need to go online, says TAANZ Continued from page 1 The Eagle has specialist returns offering. We’ve been pushing landed for solo Danielle Barton- been ignored, he adds. for that and will continue to Sheriff has ‘There were 18,000 visitors do so until the visa offering travellers started working at who arrived from South Africa is seamless, online and Luxury Trans-Siberian Express Adventure World as last year. No one has shown any available equally to everyone Golden Eagle is offering solo a North America & data on how many were refused irrespective of where they live. travellers savings from more than Asia specialist after entry. Should not the counterfeit After all that is the reciprocal US$10,400 on its 4 June train eight years away passports be picked up pre arrangement that NZ offers journey from Moscow to from the company. embarkation? It’s a problem South Africa.’ Vladivostok. Danielle Barton-Sheriff and now a huge cost for the Andrew Olsen The visa centre will be Barton-Sheri worked for AW New Zealand traveller,’ situated in Auckland’s central Russian specialist Innovative between 2006 and 2009 as a senior Olsen says. city on Shortland Street. It will be an Travel says Gold Class travel is now reservation sales consultant before ‘The dual city arrangement is what appointment-based system, but walk-ins available on the share twin rate of spending three years working at House we asked for from day one. It’s an will also be accommodated. US$20,595 for those travelling solo. of Travel and then moving into office improvement but outsourcing the service The total visa cost is now $181 per In Silver class, there is a saving of management. is gouging the New Zealand traveller who person, which is made up of a $95 US$8000 in Silver Class, as single ‘I’m excited to be back working for now will pay four times as much for the processing fee and a NZ$86 service travellers are now eligible for the Adventure World and I’m already enjoying privilege of a visa it should not need charge. The previous cost is said to have share twin rate of US$16,995 getting stuck into the fantastic products we to obtain. been around $50. per person. offer to clients,’ says Barton-Sheriff. ‘South Africa needs to have an online – Lisa Bradley The 15-day journey starts in Moscow, and takes in Yekatinburg, Novoibirsk, Irkursk. The price includes guaranteed English NZ convention organiser makes big move in Sydney sightseeing, meals and drinks New Zealand’s biggest convention Noble, is a significant investment for Centre, which has put New Zealand allowance. and event organiser, The Conference the company. on the global conference map, and the CLICK HERE for details. Company, will this month open its first ‘Face-time with clients and our industry investment in Australia represents Specials on the dedicated off-shore office in Sydney’s partners is critical to the success of our a major push for new regional and Golden Eagle central business district. business, so investing in Sydney bricks international business,’ she adds. Managing director and president and mortar was a logical next step as we Tonkin says the Australasian market of the International Association of continue to develop our international is reaping the benefits of increased Professional Congress Organisers connections,’ Tonkin says. investment in the sector, which relies (IAPCO) Jan Tonkin says the ‘We are experiencing a strong growth on a multi-agency approach to secure Castlereagh St office, headed by phase following the announcement of valuable international conferences Asia Pacific manager Stephen Auckland’sAfrica International on Sale Convention til 31OCT.ET and events. Fares from NZD 1640 RT ET fares via HKG to ADD & 10 destinations in Africa Economy from NZD 1219 RT + taxes/charges TRAVELinc Memo 14 February 2017 4 News
New Zealand Bronze Agency of the Year winner RCI’s Adam Armstrong with New Zealand Gold Rising Star New Zealand Melanie Morrison with Amanda Ellis from Cruiseabout Parnell wtih Star Cruise Agency of the Year winner Eve Murphy from Francis Travel Marketing’s Tony Smith Cruises’ Brigita Devries Pukekohe Travel Pukekohe Travel sails o with top CLIA honours It was a golden night for Pukekohe out across nine categories with the top The full list of Kiwi winners were: Plan A Cruise Month Promotion Winner Gerard Murphy from Bon Voyage Cruises & Travel NZ with Travel at the Cruise Lines International Australian going once again going to Travelmarvel’s Deb Fox Association (CLIA) Australasia 16th Western Australia’s Bicton Travel. In • Cruise Agency of the Year – Annual Cruise Industry Awards, held in addition to winning an unprecedented New Zealand: Sydney on Saturday. sixth Gold Agency of the Year award, Pukekohe Travel, Gold; The agency won the New Zealand Gold Bicton founder Carole Smethurst was House of Travel Orewa, Silver; Agency of the Year Award for the second inducted into the CLIA Hall of Fame. Cruiseabout Parnell, Bronze. time in three years, while store manager CLIA Australasia chairman Steve Odell • Online Agency of the Year – Gail Littin also claimed the mantle of New says the 16th awards night was a fitting New Zealand: Zealand Cruise Consultant of the Year – celebration following a massive year Cruise Republic. the first time a Kiwi agency and one of its for the cruise industry in Australia and • Broker of the Year – team has taken home both top awards. New Zealand. New Zealand: House of Travel Orewa was awarded ‘The Cruise Industry Awards bring Debbie Bradford, NZ Travel Brokers. Silver in the New Zealand Agency of the together the industry’s brightest stars • Cruise Consultant of the Year – Year section, followed by Cruiseabout from across Australia and New Zealand New Zealand: Parnell, which claimed bronze. in a fantastic celebration that recognises Gail Littin, Pukekohe Travel. The awards, attended by more than 500 their outstanding achievements. Each • Rising Star Award – New Zealand: people, included the inaugural Australasian year, the event continues to grow in Melanie Morrison, HOOT Cruises. Plan a Cruise Month Agency promotion stature in-line with the impressive • Plan a Cruise Month Agency award. The title was won by New Zealand’s expansion of the industry, cementing the Promotion Award – Australasia: Bon Voyage Cruises & Travel. CLIAs as the cruise industry’s “night of Bon Voyage Cruise & Travel, New Zealand Silver agency of the year Dennis Payne A total of 19 awards were handed nights”,’ Odell says. New Zealand. and Yvonne Payne from House of Travel Orewa Masts clinking, waves lapping and LuMi Bar & Dining, on one of To the north of the Harbour, Manly’s coastal panoramas – waterside Pyrmont heritage wharves, makes lovely 1933-built bathing pavilion has HARBOURSIDE dining is one of Sydney’s essential the most of the harbour surrounds re-opened as The Bistro at Manly experiences. With it’s abundance of with all-glass walls and, at night, Pavilion. Perched over the water, the harbour and ocean coastline, the twinkles like a jewellery box. new eatery combines Mediterranean city is filled with restaurants where a dishes with amazing views out Emerging waterfront development table right by the water heightens the to the mouth of the harbour and DINING Barangaroo now boasts Somer culinary experience. it’s dramatic headlands. Nearby, Sivrioglu’s Anason, where the Efendy Hugo’s Manly makes the most of the chef is bringing his delicious Turkish panoramas from Manly Wharf with Meze treats from Bosphorus to IN SYDNEY luxurios outdoor seating. Sydney Harbour.
Hugo’s Manly
For insider tips on great places to eat in Sydney visit sydney.com TRAVELinc Memo 14 February 2017 6 Australia Take the kids to the Outback these holidays One-way 4WD campervan deals New South Wales touring company, The next offer is a ‘stay three nights and DriveAway Holidays has released Out of the Ordinary Outback, is offering get the fourth night free’ deal for caravan free one-way camper pick-ups from two discounted packages for families and camping bookings at the Warrawong Melbourne for as little as $52 a day. keen to explore the destination during on the Darling camp, which is situated by The deal applies to Britz Outback the school holidays this April, which a billabong at Wilcannia in the outback. and Safari Landcruiser 4WD includes Easter and Anzac Day. Alternatively, caravanners and campers vehicles, which can be returned The first deal is a 10% discount on one- can pay for three nights and receive a to Perth, Broome, Darwin, Alice day tours to Mutawintji National Park camp dinner around the fire for four Springs, Cairns or Brisbane if (when booked before 28 February, 2017). people for half price. travelling between 1 April and 15 This park is five hours north west of The camp offers secluded caravan May and booked before 28 February. Broken Hill and boasts red rock ledges and camping sites by the river, a new This offer applies to rentals of and caves containing indigenous art. It amenities block, laundry, camp kitchen between seven and 14 days for all is a restricted area that Tri State Safaris and BBQ area, a small shop and art destinations except Broome, where (part of Out of the Ordinary Outback) has gallery and bushwalking tracks. the booking requirement is from gained special access to. Under the discounted offer, a family 14 to 21 days. Discounted prices for the tour in a of four can stay for four nights on a Vehicles are suitable for up to coach (including lunch and morning tea) powered site for A$141 (nightly rate is cost A$198 for adults, A$158 for 14 to 17 A$47 per night) or on an unpowered site five people. DriveAway Holidays have cheap deals www.driveaway.co.nz from Melbourne year-olds, A$99 for children aged 5 to 13, for four nights for A$111 (A$37 a night). and kids under five travel free. outoftheordinaryoutback.com.au
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Cruising with celebrities Holland America and Oprah partner up Holland America Line and O, The from August 2017 through to 2018 Sweetie, darlings… Iris is on board Oprah Magazine have announced will have a variety of activities that Fashion royalty Iris Apfel will join an exclusive partnership that will see bring the magazine to life, including Cunard’s line-up of fashion icons to sail Oprah Winfrey cruise around Alaska meditation, tai chi, healthy cooking onboard Queen Mary 2 for the cruise in July. demonstrations, an onboard book line’s second annual Transatlantic ‘I’m so excited to continue 2017 as club and more. Fashion Week from 31 August to my Year of Adventure with another O, The Oprah Magazine’s ‘Share the 7 September, 2017. bold, new place I’ve never been before: Adventure’ Cruise to Alaska will take Apfel, 95, is a jet-setting celebrity Alaska!’ says Winfrey. place on 15 to 22 July, 2017. known for her individual style and Additionally, four activites inspired joyful flair. Featured in cutting-edge by the magazine will be scheduled www.hollandamerica.com/ style campaigns for Macy’s, MAC, aboard select North America ships OprahMag Kate Spade and Swarovski, Apfel has throughout 2017 and 2018. become renowned for her signature Oprah Winfrey’s magazine will hold These cruises will feature special demonstrations onboard bold round glasses, oversized bangles Iris Apfel’s fashion choices are about to make waves programmes developed with the Holland America Line cruises and necklaces, and rich, flamboyant, on Queen Mary 2 Oprah Magazine’s editors. One of the colourful garments. she says. initiatives will see members of the During Transatlantic Fashion Week, Transatlantic Fashion Week 2017 will SuperSoul 100 — thought leaders and Apfel will present a Q&A session and also feature designer Julien Macdonald visionaries who use their talents to will introduce a showing of Iris, a and fashion historian Colin McDowell. elevate humanity — onboard sharing documentary featuring fashion, creativity Departing Southampton the voyage inspirational ideas and tips. and her soaring free spirit. costs from $2029 per person twin share. More than 300 Holland America ‘I’ve lived quite a life of fashion and Line cruises sailing in North America can’t wait to experience style at sea,’ www.cunard.com Early booking Offer - Celebrate Europe in 2018 O ers available on the elegant ms Prinsendam *Valid for NEW 2018 • AU$2,000 Air Credit bookings only & not combinable with • US$300 Onboard credit with interior & other o ers. Deal is oceanview staterooms based on two guests sharing a stateroom. • US$500 Onboard credit for suites Air Credit is for air booked through • Prepaid Gratuities HAL (Flight Ease). Additional Terms & Plus, Suites also receive US$100 Conditions apply. EBD nishes 28 Feb internet credit and Dine Around package 2017. Click here Telephone: 0800 422 784 or 09 444 2298 Email: [email protected] for yer TRAVELinc Memo 14 February 2017 8 NewsCrusing Kiwis ock to uber-luxurious Silver Muse The clock is ticking until the much-lauded Mediterranean, Alaska and Canada runs o cial launch of Silversea’s new agship, during 2016. There was also increased Silver Muse, from Monte Carlo on 19 April. interest from the New Zealand market in And Silversea’s managing director Asia Silversea’s Expedition products and journeys Paci c, Amber Wilson, con rms cruise- to the Galapagos Islands. loving Kiwis will be among the passengers This year, Silversea’s Mediterranean counting down the days. itineraries are taking top billing among Kiwis, ‘Interest has been high from the Asia followed by the Baltic and South America. SALES REPRESENTATIVE Paci c region for Silver Muse’s inaugural The addition of the 596-passenger Silver THAI AIRWAYS INTERNATIONAL season, and there have been substantial Muse will expand Silversea’s eet to nine bookings from New Zealand for 2017.’ ships. After the christening, the vessel sets We are seeking to add to our expanding sales team, in Auckland. Wilson says Kiwi passion for the new sail the next day on 20 April, and will visit 34 We are looking for a confident, motivated person to promote vessel is in line with increased New Zealand countries and more than 130 ports during THAI to the travel industry throughout New Zealand. attention being placed on the cruise line’s her inaugural year. It will spend the European The role will be considered as an entry sales position, so a other itineraries, adding the market has been spring and summer months around the willingness to learn and co-work enthusiastically with our sales growing between ve to 10% per year. Mediterranean before crossing to North team is a pre-requisite. Strong Kiwi gures were noted on America where it will homeport in Fort Lauderdale’s Port Everglades from October. Silver Mews Key attributes for success in the role are: In other changes, Silversea’s rst vessel, • A minimum 18-months’ experience in the travel industry. Silver Cloud, will be converted into an • An understanding of agency distribution systems and relationships ice-class ship and moved into the liner’s within it. Expedition line, which is presently served by • Excellent and confident presentation skills to varied group sizes. three ships. The new-look Cloud will launch • Outstanding customer service and time management skills. on 15 November on a 16-day voyage • A self starter with a positive attitude, initiative and a strong encompassing Antarctica. work ethic. • Well-developed computer skills (Microsoft office applications) and ideally previous usage of a GDS system. • An ability to travel – there will be occasional domestic and Tempo – no cabin fever here international travel. • Flexibility to work hours which may include after-hours or weekends. Tempo holidays is offering 25% off Get on board the Cuban • Applicants must be a Permanent Resident of New Zealand and have the cabin cost of its 2017 Celestyl Cruise bandwagon with Tempo their own car and current NZ driver’s license. Cuba itinerary. The saving, on offer until 28 February, For the successful applicant we offer a remuneration package including means the cost is reduced by $247.5 per a base salary, 4 weeks annual leave, travel benefits, and subsidized person. The discount brings the overall superannuation and medical cover. cruise price, including taxes, a beverage Applications should be forwarded by Monday 27th February, by email package and shore excursions, to around to the Sales Manager, Ian Peddie: [email protected] $2066 per person. Applicants who applied for our other recent Sales Representative The eight-day programme also includes entertainment and different theme nights. role last year need not re-apply. meals. Additionally, on board there is CLICK HERE for details. TRAVELinc Memo 14 February 2017 9 Asia Vietnamese cycling tours a hit with Kiwis Make it Mewar for culture and art The annual Mewar festival, held in A boom in Kiwi travellers to Vietnam Udaipur, Rajasthan, celebrates combined with a trend in travellers age-old traditions, culture and art seeking more active holidays has led in the region. to an increase in enquiry for Exodus’ Exotic Holidays’ managing director Cycling Vietnam itinerary, Adventure Rahul Sharma says: ‘People get World says. indulged in this event. They enjoy fun- The 14-day trip combines some of the filled opportunities, and learn local arts best cycling routes in Vietnam with time from professional artists.’ to explore the country’s long coastline This year the festival dates are of beaches, paddy fields and forested 30 March to 1 April. mountains. Once the religious part of the festival Clients can relax in the beachside is over, Rajasthani culture comes to the town of Nha Trang before cruising Adventure World gets the wheels in motion in Vietnam fore through songs, dances and other around the landscape of Halong Bay, performances. The event culminates while incorporating cycling into many priced from $2535 per person, including with a fireworks display. Mewar Festval is in Udaipur, India areas of the trip. accommodation, many meals, transport, Folk music (including classical organised by professionals throughout This adventure from Ho Chi Minh activities and an Exodus tour leader vocal and instrumental music) and the three-day festival. in the south to Hanoi in the north is throughout. traditional dance performances are CLICK HERE for details.
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Mark your calendars for the September festival at Inle Lake Paung Daw U Pagoda festival Exotic Holidays is reminding agents the Inle leg rowers. and fairs during this time and the most of a major festval that takes place at Only four Buddha Images are carried interesting event of the festival, one of the most famous shrines in on the royal barge and conveyed around especially for travellers, is the boat Myanmar – Paung Daw U Pagoda in 14 villages on the Lake because it is said races by leg rowers. Inle Lake, which is home to five small that once the barge tipped over and the The festival this year is from buddha images. fifth image was temporarily lost. It was 21 September to 8 October – the end of Once a year there is an 18-day later reported to mysteriously appear the monsoon season. festival during which the Buddha back at the pagoda. images are ceremonially rowed Large crowds of people gather on www.exoticholidays.co.nz/ around the lake in a colourful barge the shore to celebrate the occasion. destination/packages/ accompanied by many other boats and There are also different dance shows Cambodia/8
Bike ride for Anzac Day in Thailand Grasshopper Adventures is hosting a Bike riders take to Thailand to honour four-day bicycle trip to the River Kwai in those who served in the two world wars central-west Thailand from 23 to 26 April. The journey weaves through a historical Stock Video Clips landscape that was ruled by Khmer kings a thousand years ago and then invaded by the Imperial Japanese Army in 1941. The trip includes attendance to the Anzac For The Travel Industry Day dawn service in Hell Fire Pass and mid-morning wreath laying ceremonies in the Kanchanaburi War Cemetery on 25 April to commemorate those who served From Only $59 during the two world wars. ‘The bike riders join in honouring those who gave their lives in the service of their country and who suffered the hardships of Japanese prisoner of war camps to biscuits, ride the train over the Krasae build the Death Railway,’ says Adam Cave trestle bridge, and visit the Muang Platt-Hepworth, CEO of Grasshopper Singh Khmer temple remains. Adventures. Travellers will also cycle 37km on During the trip participants will walk 23 April, 29km on the 24th, and 43km on across the bridge on the River Kwai, visit the 26th. Much of the riding is on scenic an additional war cemetery, tour the back roads in Kanchanaburi, which www.stockgiant.net Hellfire Pass museum, eat a traditional is known for its tall jungle-clad hills, Gunfire Breakfast of tea and ANZAC Buddhist caves and emerald water falls. TRAVELinc Memo 14 February 2017 11 Paci c Islands – Africa Rising up for tness Namibia in high demand, says World Journeys Uprising Fiji in Pacific Harbour is launching health and fitness retreats this year. World Journeys reports demand for General manager James Pridgeon says travel to Namibia continues to grow, the resort will work with Tribal Strength often combined with trips to South Academy to release the programme to the Africa and/or Botswana. local market in March, with the intent of World Journeys has added a private rolling it out to international markets. touring option to its Ultimate Namibia ‘It’s what they already do so well in Safari, for those who prefer private places like Bali and Thailand, but we arrangements plus the flexibility of NEW CALEDONIA are so much closer for the Australasian choosing their own travel dates. market. We will be providing programmes The 10-day Ultimate Namibia Safari that include yoga, clean eating, detox and is a small group (a maximum of eight SAME DAY, participants) exploration of the dunes Herd of elephants snapped in working on fitness. It works well with our Etosha National Park in Namibia current emphasis on sports tourism.’ of Sossusvlei, the Namib Desert, the German heritage of Swakopmund, and The Ultimate Namibia Safari - Private DIFFERENT WORLD the wildlife of remote Damaraland and version of this itinerary is priced More ights link Etosha National Park. from $5640 based on a party of four The package is priced from $4101 travelling with a guide. Pricing varies Kruger to Vic Falls per person (twin) including nine seasonally and depends on the number World Journeys has welcomed increased nights accommodation, luxury safari of people travelling together. frequency of Airlink ghts between vehicles, guides, meals, entrance fees Nelspruit KMIA and Livingstone, saying and park fees. CLICK HERE for details. this will enhance the ability to link the top spots of Kruger National Park and Victoria Falls in a tailor-made itinerary. NEWS IN BRIEF E ective from 26 March, 2017, Airlink will increase the frequency of ights from three Wedding venue plans Sea Fiji energised #TasteNewCaledonia times a week to a daily service. Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort is building a new Sea Fiji has added a new boat to its A homestay in a tribal hut [email protected] wedding venue due to demand. eet. Ron Bradley, global director of the accommoda on is a fantas c General manager of the resort, Peter company, says the addition means Sea opportunity to immerse yourself in Hopgood says the venue is expected to Fiji can now carry 110 passengers across Kanak culture and have an authen c open early next year and will accommodate the eet. The new boat, Energiser, will 250 guests for a reception as opposed to be designated for inter-island services New Caledonian experience. Dont the 100 currently catered for. ‘This market is consisting of fast boat transfers to the forget to try the delicious ‘Bougna’. performing strongly and we are expecting a Mamanucas. Other boats in the eet, like Get inspired and start planning on 5% increase this year. We had 215 weddings Delta and Echo, continue to service the NewCaledonia.Travel in 2016 and that is set to increase to 230.’ outer islands.
THE ONLY AIRLINE OFFERING BUSINESS CLASS BETWEEN AUCKLAND & PORT VILA TRAVELinc Memo 14 February 2017 12 NewsNew Zealand Four new suites Crowne Plaza’s new-look meeting spaces Crowne Plaza Queenstown will have Cricket helps New Zealand’s newest luxury lodge, a fresh look following upgrades to its Mahu Whenua Ridgeline Homestead and Wellington Airport conference spaces and public areas. Eco Sanctuary, a 20-minute drive from bat for six million Wanaka, has introduced four new suites to The half million-dollar refurbishment cater for demand. will see the introduction of more high- Wellington Airport is getting ready for a Each suite sleeps up to two people and end meeting technology and new carpets big year, gearing up for six million annual features a king or king-split bed as well as fitted in all conference and meeting visitors to pass through its gates three an ensuite with bath. Prices start at $1850 rooms, the pre and post-function area, years ahead of schedule. per suite per night for up to two guests, threesixty restaurant, lobby, and around The airport had anticipated it would including all meals, an in-house chef, the concierge desk and hotel corridors. reach the six-million miletstone in 2019, concierge and sta . New furniture in the lobby, threesixty but large events are expected to draw big www.mahuwhenua.co.nz restaurant and The Atrium will add a Crowne Plaza Queenstown will revamp its lobby bar, crowds to the capital. modern twist to interiors. entrance areas and threesixty restaurant This month is likely to be the busiest month, thanks to the Guns ‘n Roses DoubleTree is set concert and Black Caps versus South Africa Contiki – changes in NZ itineraries cricket matches coupled with the already Contiki has launched its 2017/18 remove Waitomo as a destination, and for Wellington bustling business and leisure period. South Pacific brochure with six new instead adding in a new destination The Hilton is opening its first property Later in the year, the airport is and improved trips in New Zealand and Mount Ruapehu and a new Special Stay in Wellington this year under the anticipating a signi cant increase in Australia, including a seven- overnight at the Kings Hotel. DoubleTree by Hilton brand. passenger ows due to the British and day trip to the Rhythm & Alps There are also changes to the The seven-story hotel, expected to open Irish Lions tour games in June/July and the festival in Queenstown. product in Paihia to include a late 2017, will be located in the T&G Rugby League World Cup quarter nal in Comprising 22 itineraries visit to the Treaty of Waitangi Building on Lambton Quay. November. across Australia and New grounds for a guided tour. When complete it will have 108 rooms Wellington Airport’s chief commercial o cer Matt Clarke says these big events Zealand, with six ways to travel, Amended Australian trips (including 21 suites), a restaurant, bar, are exactly what the airport had in mind Contiki’s 2017/18 South Pacific include the Big Walkabout, City boardroom and gym. when it completed its new domestic product offers ‘No Regrets to Surf, Beaches & Reefs, Reefs Dianna Vaughan, senior vice president terminal last year. Experiences’, from outback & Rainforest and Sunsets & Surf, and global head, DoubleTree by Hilton adventures to beach and reef trips. which now allow for almost another full ‘We’re well prepared to handle these says: ‘The hotel boasts an ideal location peaks and provide visitors to the capital The new trip to Rhythm & Alps departs on day in Byron Bay to soak up the vibes. for both the business and leisure traveller 28 December, 2017, staying three nights in Contiki is offering savings of up to $435 a great welcome and add to a smooth with close proximity to the central journey,’ says Clarke. Queenstown and three nights in glamping on trips booked and paid before 11 April. business district and walking distance accommodation at the festival in Cardrona. Further discounts include booking trips Passenger numbers are thought to have to Te Papa Museum and the cable car as been lifted by new Jetstar, Fiji Airways Amended New Zealand trips include to Australia and New Zealand at the same well as numerous shops and cafes.’ The Big Tiki, Kiwiana Panorama, Sun time saving $50 as well as 5% off the price and Singapore Airlines routes, as well as The property is operated by Sarin an increase in capacity from both Air New & Steam, Northern Choice and Jaffas of the second trip (the discount will be Investments, which has signed a Zealand and Qantas and new services ‘n’ Jandals for 2017. The itineraries applied to the less expensive trip). franchise agreement with DoubleTree from Sounds Air. have changed in the North Island to www.contiki.com by Hilton. TRAVELinc Memo 14 February 2017 13 NewsAirlines Passengers sharpen Airline seating: it can be a squeeze Airlines strong but tness with Man City Air intelligence company OAG says feature a 3-4-3 seat configuration. airlines are now fitting between 7% to When flying in an economy seat the momentum slows Etihad Airways has launched a new 8% more seats into their aircraft than distance between the back of a seat and inflight fitness video featuring an The airline industry’s initial financial they were initially designed to carry. the rear of the seat in front (seat pitch) results for the fourth quarter of 2016 all-star lineup from Manchester City Research compares 14 major airlines, varies from 73.66cm for standard seats Football Club. indicate a continued solid performance including British Airways, Delta Air on easyJet flights, to 81.82cm with for the air transport industry, albeit In the video footy players Vincent Lines and Qatar Airways, and highlights Singapore Airlines. Extra legroom space Kompany, Pablo Zabaleta, Fernando with ongoing signs that momentum in seat configuration, seat width and may be provided in the exit row of many the profitability cycle has weakened. and Bacary Sagna team up with the recline, entertainment screen size aircraft, although there may be certain airline cabin crew to perform a series International Air Transport and legroom space for each airline’s restrictions for passengers wishing to sit Association’s (IATA) Financial Monitor of stretches and exercise tips. economy and business class cabins. in these. Workout suggestions in the report for January 2016 shows global Most of the airlines researched offer In terms of elbow space in economy airline share prices began this year on video include shoulder circles, a spacious business class cabin. The cabins, the distance between armrests rotations, neck rolls, ankle circles, a positive note, rising 1.5% in January premium seat cabin on A330 flights (seat width) only varies slightly across and a healthy 6.8% over the past year. arm and leg stretches and forward with Aer Lingus offers a 1-2-1 seat the 14 airlines researched. There is bends. The team also recommends However, the industry has lagged the configuration, and the upper class 4cm difference between Ryanair’s overall performance of global equities staying hydrated during the flight. cabin on Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner measurements of 43cm and Singapore Man City suppporters are renown for on both measures. flights with Virgin Atlantic, has Airlines’ measurement of 47cm. Crude oil prices have been broadly their dedication to the team. Any fan a 1-1-1 seat layout. Nine of the airlines researched who travelled to support Man City at a stable around US$55/bbl since the The situation in economy class is provide economy cabin passengers with start of December and spent January ll of their international games last year obviously different. For example, the reclining seats, including British Airways would have travelled almost 50,000 trading in a tight range. Prices are research says economy cabins on board and American Airlines, which offer a expected to rise only gradually. miles – nearly 10 times more than the B777-300ER aircraft with Emirates seat recline of 5.08cm and 15.24cm average person travels in a year. Downward pressure on industry- and Boeing 747-400 aircraft with KLM respectively. wide passenger yields remains, despite increases in key cost components, particularly fuel and, in some markets, Concorde nds its nal resting place at new Bristol museum labour. However the aggregate masks Plane spotters of the first order will Visitors to the museum will be able to From 2179km/h to standstill – aviation differences in individual markets. no doubt be marking Bristol in their step inside the Concorde, which was built bu s now have a chance to get on board Both passenger and freight demand the nal Concorde calendars this year. and tested in Bristol as well as the last ended 2016 on a strong note, The south-west English city has now city in the world to be flown to. delivering above-average growth for given the supersonic passenger aircraft, Capable of cruising at more than twice the year. Likewise, load factors also the Concorde, its final resting place at the speed of sound and crossing the performed strongly in 2016, with the the soon-to-be opened Bristol Aerospace Atlantic in under three hours, passengers passenger measure registering a record Centre. aboard the Concorde reportedly took in annual outcome. The Concorde, which had been parked the curvature of the Earth while sipping Premium airfares continue to on a runway since it’s last flight over Champagne. tours and group rates as well and the generally hold up better than those of Bristol in 2003, will be the centrepiece at The museum, covering more than opportunity to host events under the the economy cabin, helping to support the £16m museum, which opens in July a century of flights, two world wars wings of the Concorde. airline financial performance. or August this year. and modern aircraft, will offer guided www.aerospacebristol.org TRAVELinc Memo 14 February 2017 14 NewsEurope – Americas
Belmond Royal Scotsman Chimu o ers up new Antarctica experiences Talking Tucan Chimu Adventures has unveiled its which departs Hobart, Australia, for east Tucan Travel’s new Worldwide Antarctica brochure for 2017/18. Antarctica Adventure for All Brochure has extra The programme features a • Antarctica in a day – a 12-and- information on how clients can get the number of new itineraries and a-half hour sightseeing flight most out of a Machu Picchu trek. activities, which include: departing Sydney, Melbourne Penny Henderson, who represents • Shackleton’s Antarctica or Perth for Antarctica. This the company in this market, says (priced from $19,885 per adventure is designed for Tucan has also added a one day trek to person), an 18-day exploration travellers who have little time its choices. The excursion is permitted Spa on rails cruise following in the wake of and are on a limited budget and limited to 250 people a day. Tucan World Journeys advises that the luxury explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton The brochure is available continues to offer the four day, three Belmond Royal Scotsman will have a new • Frozen Frontier ($12978 per through brochure net and is night programme. spa carriage from April this year. person), an 11-day fundraising being distributed to travel agents ‘The Inca Trail is always popular,’ It will offer ‘Bamford’ treatments for voyage organised by Chimu in across the country. says Henderson. ‘This year we have passengers travelling on overnight rail conjunction with MAD Project To celebrate the launch, Chimu is seen a spike in the awareness of journeys throughout Scotland and • In the Wake of Mawson ($26,576 per offering a 20% early bird discount on the trail.’ Great Britain. person): A 26-day expedition retracing the Shackleton’s Antarctica and Frozen The two single treatment rooms will the footsteps of Sir Douglas Mawson. Frontier itineraries for a limited time. feature picture windows looking out onto This trip is a collaboration between the Scottish countryside. Chimu and Mawson’s Hut Foundation, CLICK HERE for details. Belmond has also just named golfing professional Sam Torrance as host of the EARLYBIRD SALE ‘Scottish Golf Tour’ on board Belmond Discover the World for Less Royal Scotsman from 26 to 30 June 2017. Explore the backroads of Nevada Departing from Edinburgh, this fully Adventure World is o ering Kiwis the inclusive four-night golfing adventure chance to see Nevada beyond its bright lights. offers guests the unique chance to play The 11-night self-drive Backroads of with a champion golfer and take on the Nevada will take travellers to Death Valley, challenge of three of Scotland’s award- Yosemite, Bryce Canyon and Zion National winning courses, including Royal Dornoch Parks. The journey also visits Lake Tahoe, Golf Club and Castle Stuart Links Course Reno, Eureka, Ely and Tonopah on the in the Highlands. Non-golfers can visit round-trip from Las Vegas. Dunrobin Castle, seat of the Earls and The holiday is priced from $1555 per Dukes of Sutherland, visit Glenmorangie person, including accommodation, car distillery, and join excursions to ‘pearl of the rental for 10 days, driving directions and an information package. Book before 31 Mar 17 for HUGE savings on north’ Ballindalloch Castle, the Pitmedden worldwide car hire & motorhome rentals. Gardens and 13th Century Fyvie Castle. Hit the road with Adventure World CLICK HERE for details. Call 0800 885 590 visit www.driveaway.co.nz [email protected] Over 120 European destinations ... now that’s Wunderbar! TRAVELinc Memo 14 February 2017 15 News Fares, GDP, and desire for di erence all in mix Cheap fares are only part of the encouraging New Zealanders to look at island for a flop and drop these days.’ equation when it comes to the current taking more than one trip a year. Backing up the ‘more than one trip leisure travel boom out of the country, ‘Going to Europe is not a trip of a theory’ is evidence that destinations such says Sean Berenson, product nation lifetime any more. I think what has as USA, Australia, Pacific and Asia were leader at Flight Centre. changed is that Kiwis are taking more all generating considerable interest and The company kicked off its New than one overseas trip a year. They are bookings over the weekend. Zealand expo season in Auckland over saying, “We’ll still get to the South Pacific ‘We are finding that everywhere is the weekend and tentative figures this year and then in July we’ll go to tracking up,’ says Berenson. indicate that 14,000 to 15,000 visited Europe as well.” There are still only Jodie Burnard, general manager the ASB Showgrounds event. 4.67 million people in New Zealand so marketing at Flight Centre, says the expo The figure is about the same as last the only way the market can be growing had a number of changes this year – Sian Amani, Grace Kim and Amber Holyoake year but suppliers on the floor reported is if people are travelling more.’ including a layout that put consultants interest was probably at its highest Berenson says other influencing factors in the middle of the floor instead of at level yet, and Fight Centre stores that were the strong economy, the desire to the edges, food stations, and more of an were open around the city also reported see new destinations and a growing trend experiential focus with virtual reality strong bookings. in experiential travel. goggles in Discovery Zones. The show hits Wellington next ‘The GDP is definitely part of the weekend and Christchurch a week later. equation and we find that people are To see more pictures from the expo Berenson says there is no doubt that really wanting to get off the beaten track, click here: highly publicised record low fares, experience culture and get amongst www.travelinc.co.nz/content/ particularly to Europe right now, were nature. It’s not just about going to an events/paparazzo
Cheryl Dunleavy, Tahlia Sundrum, Flight Centre Howick
It looks like the travel industry is sailing with a tail wind this year – and at the wheel to chart the course Heather Gordon, The Warwick Fiji; Petero Manufolau, Welcome to the Flight Centre Expo, at the Flight Centre Expo were Tori Courtney, Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort and Ema Rayasi, says Natalia Spreys and Eliza Ferguson Sean Berenson, and Jodie Burnard The Naviti Resort Rebecca Binkhorst, Jess Noble, both Student Flights TRAVELinc Memo 14 February 2017 16 News MYSTERY SHOP Forging closer tourism ties New with Ponant Deb Corbett will New Zealand tourism officials on take up the newly Friday welcomed a delegation of created position of 10 travel companies lead by commercial director chairman of the China National Asia Pacific (APAC) Tourism Administration, for cruise company Jinzao Li. Ponant. The delegation attended the Corbett has had China-New Zealand Tourism 25 years in the Forum 2017, which was staged at travel industry Deb Corbett The Langham Hotel in Auckland across many to promote bilateral tourism. levels including leadership, team YourBefore personal the magazine forum, Tourism Your personal magazine twice a week twice a week development, negotiation, customer Minister Paula Bennett hosted MEMO MEMOrelationship, brand management, and Li and the group at the Wellington traditional and social media. Beehive. Minister of Tourism Paula Bennett and The latest mystery CNTA chairman Li Jinzao Prior to this role, Corbett was head Topics discussed during both of sales, marketing and product with We’ve stumbled across another events included visas and Tourism Industry Aotearoa chair, Travel the World and held senior mystery shop. As usual, we don’t New Zealand’s lack of tourism- urged tourism executives to increase management roles with Garuda need help with the brand – that’s Your personalrelated magazine infrastructure. skills that caterYour personalto savvy magazine Chinese twice a week twice a week Indonesia, Travelscene American pretty obvious – but where is it? At the forum, Grant Webster, tourists. MEMO MEMOExpress and CTC Lines. We are looking for the name of an Auckland suburb this week and if you think you know the answer send it to compeitions@promag. Fancy a PEARL’s PEARLER co.nz. Remember to put Mystery trip to Laos? Your personal magazine Your personal magazine Shop in the subject line. Innovativetwice a week Travel advises trade there twice a week ‘Nobody is worth your tears, and the Last week’s mystery shop was a are two placesMEMO left on its Laos and MEMO one who is won’t make you cry.’ Editor: Lisa Bradley bit more difficult than usual but Singapore Airlines educational departing [email protected] we were chuffed when plenty of on 15 March. Journalists: Stu Freeman, Ruth Scott CLICK HERE to read TRAVELinc staff from helloworld Miramar Famil highlights include visiting the and Julie Cleaver digital's latest supplement: Graphics: Andrew Denton Going Places AND recognised their own store. Plain of Jars, plus historical and cultural CLICK HERE for a FREE Awesome team work – we drew experiences in Laos. PO Box 60154 Titirangi, Auckland 0642 subscription to TRAVELinc's On return to New Zealand, there is an Ph: + 64 9 818 7807 Mob + 027 266 1948 customised print editions Tori Maxwell’s name out of the www.travelinc.co.nz barrel. A Lonely Planet book is on opportunity to update on Singapore’s Copyright: No part of this publication may be copied, latest attractions. reproduced or duplicated in whole or in part, without the Keep up with us its way. prior written approval of the publisher. on social media: [email protected]
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