MEET the FEATURES TEAM New Virgin Atlantic Boss Shai Weiss BUSINESS ADVICE Tune in to the Power of Facebook Live

FOR SMARTER, BETTER, FAIRER TRAVEL

INTERVIEW MEET THE FEATURES TEAM New Virgin Atlantic boss Shai Weiss BUSINESS ADVICE Tune in to the power of Facebook Live

ON OUR RADAR China: Hunan province

TRAVEL TRADE GAZETTE 15.04.2019 | ttgmedia.com

Abra Dunsby Charlotte FLACH Andrew Doherty Acting features editor Acting deputy Senior features reporter [email protected] features editor [email protected] +44 (0)20 3714 4112 [email protected] +44 (0)20 3405 6526 @AbraDunsbyTTG +44 (0)20 3714 4113 @Andrew_TTG

@Charlotte_Flach DIVE ON IN Immerse yourself in the new-style TTG with a focus on expedition cruising in Antarctica

BUSINESS ADVICE

This section of case studies and expert advice gives business-building ideas and guidance to agent readers. Most leads for this section come from supplier sales teams tipping us off about interesting agents they have come across and interesting ways in which they are working with agents. This section covers the following topics:

Marketing Sustainability and responsible practices

BUSINESS ADVICE BUSINESS ADVICE REDUCING WASTE PODCASTS Angles include advice Advice on how to operate

As a certified B Corporation – a business that episode includes an expert, influencer or content meets the highest standards of verified social and CUTTING BACK creator, some of whom have travelled with Contiki, PITCH environmental performance, public transparency and specialists such as an LGBT+ activist. and legal accountability to balance profit and ON OFFICE PERFECT purpose – Turner says Intrepid will continue Norman explains the brand wanted to showcase on improving in-store WASTE more responsibly. Case- a range of voices. “We wanted to provide a platform its efforts to operate sustainably, including Podcasting tips from for storytelling and the sharing of experiences, as participating in Zero Waste Week again this year. Zero Waste Week Sian Webster, marketing opposed to everything being told by Contiki.” “Last year’s activities made everyone more aware of co-founder Rachelle manager at The Global The podcast is promoted through paid media, how easily they could reduce waste,” explains Turner, Strauss offers her tips Travel Group: with social posts and media adverts, and is who adds that the week encouraged the operator to included on influencers’ channels, as well as make permanent changes to how they work. Stop unnecessary printing: Know your audience: Think Contiki’s website, social channels and email. The “We’ve made canvas tote bags available for We’ve all printed off emails to about who your customers are and first series attracted listeners from 42 counties, and staff to use when shopping. We also switched to read later, despite knowing it’s what they would find useful, and has more than 2,000 subscribers. marketing, advertising, getting our milk delivered in glass bottles that a waste of paper. You can encourage study led. Will sometimes TOP: Business travel agency dream up some fun and engaging For advice on using a podcast to pitch your Clarity records an episode can be washed, sterilised and reused. We now TOP: staff not to print by adding the ideas. Use past experiences for Intrepid’s team held a business as a destination expert, look to the for its Absolute Clarity series source our fruit from Oddbox, which supplies session where they swapped subject heading “only print inspiration and, most importantly, clothes and other items Marrakech Riad portfolio of hotels. The group ABOVE: Operator Contiki imperfect fruit that would otherwise go to landfill. if essential”. If printing always ensure it adds value to your introduced a podcast in May, and owner Mike Wood has a destination-focused In London alone, we throw away nearly one million ABOVE: A Zero Waste lunch, can’t be avoided, simply approach to its Out of potential customer’s travel plans. where Intrepid staff shared explains: “We have lots of tips and resources on our tonnes of food a year, and just over half of that is change the setting to draft Office podcasts If you specialise in a particular home-cooked meals website but, as podcast fans ourselves, wanted to perfectly good.” mode. That way the printer area, stick with that, show off your launch our own to help address guests’ FAQs. This will use less ink. knowledge and be confident. way travellers can be researching and absorbing all the INSPIRATION FROM THE TOP digital marketing and client cover what other suppliers information they need prior to their holiday, whether Also tackling waste reduction head-on is Avoid single-use plastic: Use Be organised: Whether it’s weekly that’s on their daily commute or on the go.” Midcounties Co-operative, which has implemented reusable bottles and cups for or monthly, planning in a regular The first two episodes are full of practical advice sustainability initiatives across all its branches. water and coffee. Some cafe podcast is the first port of call, so MAKING A CLEAN BREAK focusing on what clients can expect from their first “We provide recycling facilities within each shop chains even offer discounts off listeners know it’s coming and you HEAR ALL ABOUT IT! 24 hours in Marrakech, and what to pack. and support centre, give local schools out-of-date your next purchase if you return can build an audience. Remember For agents interested in following a similar point-of-sale materials and brochures, stopped used containers. to mention your agency and how To mark Zero Waste Week, Andrew Doherty speaks with travel businesses format, Wood advises: “Think of the podcast as a producing any plastic branded items and replaced you can be contacted at the end tool to communicate your local knowledge and your plastic water cups with glass,” explains head of Reduce the number of bins: of each show. Create a unique reducing rubbish, from providing canvas bags to cutting single-use plastics ability to match guests to the right holiday in the events. We also profile retail branches Natalie Turner. Take away individual bins from are doing in the responsible hashtag to further grow your right accommodation.” Midcounties Co-op’s efforts to reduce waste under the desk. It changes people’s With podcasts becoming increasingly popular with consumers, Charlotte potential reach. don’t just stop there – the business supports mindsets when they don’t have a

Cullinan looks at the agents and travel companies tapping into the trend A LOW-COST PLATFORM his week is Zero Waste Week, In September 2008, Zero Waste Week in its Brixton headquarters last year. charity partners by donating unwanted clothing, convenient way of getting rid Have tenacity: Be persistent If the thought of creating additional content is marking the perfect time was born when Strauss decided to “Our goal was to raise awareness of household items and helping to manufacture “eco- of rubbish. Challenge staff and don’t get disheartened if you overwhelming, take inspiration from Camino Ways. for organisations to assess see if she could go for a week without the waste we produce and look at how bricks” made out of plastic bottles filled with waste. to see if they can do it – it get poor listening figures at first – hile podcast charts are no other UK business travel podcasts have known Clarity, as well as The Camino de Santiago specialist launched a the steps they have taken to generating any waste. “I announced it to we can reduce it with minimal effort,” Turner explains that whenever a branch is brings an element of fun. these things take time to build. normally topped by about at the time, so we saw a niche.” strengthened existing relationships.” podcast five years ago and the majority of the 486 Tbecome more environmentally friendly. my readers and encouraged them to join says head of trade sales Andrew Turner. refurbished, eco-friendly measures are put in comedy, sport and true Each episode features industry experts, episodes are audio versions of the company’s Zero Waste Week is the brainchild of in. They loved it and wanted me to keep “Throughout the week, we shared place. “We install sensor lights that switch off Download the Zero Waste heads of marketing and Rachelle Strauss, who was moved to doing it. Last year the Zero Waste Week hints and tips on how to reduce waste automatically, and where we have light switches, Week guide: We offer a business/sustainable crime, it may not be long suppliers and “anyone we think has an SHOWCASE EXPERTISE informative blog posts, each about three minutes Wbefore we start to see travel firms climb interesting story to tell,” Kington adds. Agents seeking more tips and inspiration long. Marketing manager Maria Golpe explains: create it after witnessing the destructive hashtag reached 56 million impressions on our intranet, using the hashtag we have stickers to remind people to turn them downloadable guide (from up the rankings, with a growing number Themes have included wellbeing, can listen to the growing range of “We’re creating fresh content at least twice a week power of climate change first hand. across 80 countries.” #BrixtonPledge. Activities included off. We’ve also replaced paper hand towels in our £39 at zerowasteweek.co.uk) of agencies and travel companies artificial intelligence and big brands. podcasts produced by suppliers. In for our website, so this is a way of distributing it in “I was on holiday in Boscastle during Since then Strauss has been helping providing staff with a reusable straw, central support offices with hand dryers.” that contains ideas, campaign creating their own. “The reason it works so well is largely April, operator Contiki launched Out of a different format and making it more accessible.” the floods in 2004 when the bridge into organisations, householders and hosting a zero waste “pot-luck” lunch And it seems Midcounties Co-op will take updates, images and tips to Research undertaken this spring by down to Kyle’s skill as a host and Office, which has covered everything She stresses that technology and costs needn’t be the town was blocked by debris and community groups waste less by – where people all brought in home- its sustainability efforts well into the future, help plan your social media UK radio and audio measurement company producer,” she continues. “He has a sixth from Japanese food to the lives of barriers to producing a podcast – the team records “It’s a tool to people had to be airlifted to safety,” she offering resources including on-site cooked lunch to share, with zero plastic committing to its DOES (Democracy, Openness, strategy around reducing waste RAJAR found 14% of adults listen to a sense for what will make an interesting indigenous communities in Australia. their audio in a meeting room using a handheld says. “I had read about climate change and online workshops, as well as Skype packaging – and a Swap Till You Drop Equality and Social Responsibility) values. for next year. podcast at least once a week, up from 2% conversation and isn’t afraid of asking Lottie Norman, head of content at recorder and computer. It’s edited on free software communicate cover marketing events. before, but after witnessing the floods, consultations. Now she’s encouraging session, where the team traded their “When making decisions, we will always tourism sphere. in 2014, with listeners across all age groups. difficult questions or taking the mick out Contiki Marketing Lab, says: “We’re Audacity and uploaded to podcast host Blubrry, your local I realised it was happening now. I knew the travel industry to get involved too. clothes and other possessions with challenge ourselves to uphold DOES. Last year we Among those making a foray into of our guests. That makes the listener feel constantly pushing ourselves to develop where it is distributed to podcast directories for I needed to do something about it, to “By taking part, you can set yourself each other. provided a canvas bag to customers who booked podcasts is business travel agency Clarity. like they’re overhearing a group of friends new, relevant content to engage our listeners to access. knowledge assess how the way I was living was apart from competitors and show clients “We also screened the BBC with us to prevent further plastic waste, and we “By taking part in Zero Waste Week, Its fortnightly Absolute Clarity podcast chatting, rather than a corporate pitch.” audiences, and to support and build on Golpe adds: “Once you’ve got a system set up it’s affecting the environment.” you’re part of the solution,” she says. documentary Drowning in Plastic, back educating young people about sustainability is the brainchild of product marketing Averaging 9,000 listeners per show, our amazing travel experiences. Podcasts easy, and podcasting programmes are very user- and ability to What began as a project to reduce which examined how waste impacts by supporting school lessons.” you can set yourself apart from manager Kyle Daniels, who has hosted, Kington is confident the podcast has are a great new channel to continue to friendly and often free or cost-effective.” match guests household waste eventually caught the SUSTAINABILITY IN PRACTICE destinations around the world. At So ask yourselves, what are you doing to reduce produced and edited each episode since raised the travel management company’s expand the type of content we can share, attention of the public, with Strauss’s My Operators already striving to reduce the end of each day, we weighed our waste? From simply turning off lights when not competitors and show clients it launched in January 2018. Alexandra profile and helped generate new and to showcase the expertise and Listen to TTG’s Trips of the Trade podcast at to the right Zero Waste blog detailing her progress, waste include Intrepid Travel, which waste to see if our activities were having needed to taking part in educational initiatives, there you’re part of the solution” Kington, head of marketing and business. “We have built relationships insight that social travel can bring.” Contact: Abra, reaching 80,000 people a month. held its first-ever Zero Waste Week an impact.” are plenty of ways you can be part of the solution. Contact: Abra, ttgmedia.com or on Soundcloud for inspirational communications, explains: “There were with people who wouldn’t previously Lasting about 20-35 minutes, each stories from some of travel’s biggest names. holiday”

36 TRAVEL TRADE GAZETTE 02.09.2019 02.09.2019 TRAVEL TRADE GAZETTE 37 34 TRAVEL TRADE GAZETTE 15.07.2019 15.07.2019 TRAVEL TRADE GAZETTE 35 [email protected] [email protected]

Sales and customer service Technology

BUSINESS ADVICE BUSINESS ADVICE FAMILY FAMS FAMILY FAMS BUSINESS ADVICE Covers consumer buying ITINERARY SOFTWARE Angles include GDS/booking

Anywhere in the Wirral. “I’ve done three trips with my seven-year-old son. We’ve been to La Manga SUPPLIER return from a trip to encourage them to make PUTTING THE FAM with Classic Collection, Elounda Peninsula in another booking.” Greece with GP Associates and Costa Navarino with VIEWPOINT SMART MOVES Another organisation capitalising on the Inspiring Travel Company [which was ITC at the Gemma Lazenby, popularity of itinerary management software is Justin Huxter, owner INTO FAMILY time]. He loves coming away with me – it makes habits, overcoming platform news, new apps, agency sales manager Protected Trust Services (PTS) – a technology of UK-based Virtuoso him feel like part of my work and the business.” at Classic Collection, solution combining travel business back-office agency Cartology Several agents agree they would be happy to pay on the supplier’s software, merchant services, Atol and full Package Travel, has been using for their families if given the option. “If they charged From producing engaging family fam trips Travel Regulation compliance. While already the Axus app since Could taking children extra for children and it wasn’t a crazy amount, content to reducing paper providing users with an itinerary management he co-founded the I think most agents would pay,” says Hardman. on fam trips be a tool, PTS will bolster its offering with an enhanced business three years ago How often do you run family fams? waste, itinerary management ABOVE: Protected Trust We try to do one a year, starting a version that will go live in 2020. Services (PTS) offers back- breakthrough for THROUGH A CHILD’S EYES couple of years ago. Our first trip “We discussed the new app with our members office tools with Atol and PTR Simple: I chose Axus because Children provide invaluable behind-the-scenes software can have tangible compliance in one system suppliers and agents? was to Tuscany and the Belmond objections, selling to niche and acted on the feedback we received,” says PTS it’s easy to use and provides social media insight for information and can test-drive family facilities, TOP: Dani Thomas with Villa San Michele and the second to benefits for agents. Andrew managing director Daniel Landen. “Consumer excellent visuals for clients. believes Kelly. “My son was able to tell me what the her daughter in Greece Charlotte Flach La Manga Club Hotel Principe needs today point towards apps rather than I particularly like the ability facilities in the kids’ club were like, how the staff Doherty reports ABOVE: Paula Hardman (left) Felipe. We pay for accommodation sending emails and providing clients with logins. to customise destination investigates the benefits were and what sort of food was on offer. You also with her family, who went and transfers for everyone and People are much more dependent on smartphones, descriptions and then save them get to see if the hotel genuinely welcomes children on a fam a few years ago of the family fam flights for the agent, but the agent and we have tracked the user experience, which as a template to use for future and how well catered for they are,” she says. makes a contribution towards the has fed the development of the PTS app.” bookings. You can also easily It’s worth thinking about the suitability of the cost of seats for their child. New features will include a quoting facility drag and drop images into the destination to the child, however, particularly if with the option for agents to secure and book app, which reshapes and resizes am trips are one of the biggest they are very young. “There are a lot of excursions, markets, sales tools and THE ONLY travel sellers, agencies using What is the advantage of letting online, itinerary summaries that will be available them automatically. and most celebrated perks of site visits and other commitments on a trip, which agents bring families? It can be offline, the ability to share itinerary content on working in the travel industry, is hard with a small child,” says Hardman. “You a solution for the childcare worries WAY IS APP! communications such as WhatsApp and a tool to Flexible: We use Axus for viewed as a reward or incentive can’t give the trip your undivided attention. An that sometimes prevent agents upsell ancillary products. everything from a two-week safari Ffor the long hours and hectic workload older child or teenager would be fine, though.” from attending educational trips. “Our system allows members to add their to a two-night city break. Agents travel agents endure. It also really helps to highlight branding, so all itinerary information will show the can input flight information, Being away from home for long periods FAMILY SELL facilities for children, allowing company logo, full contact details, images, maps which alerts clients to delays or on a trip can take its toll on family life, Attending a family fam trip also helps agents to sell first-hand experience and very one are the days of relying management companies went through with their advisor and travel and contact details for suppliers. The itinerary cancellations, and can add city however. So would letting children attend a resort or destination. “I can 100% sell better to my honest feedback from them. Adults body language. Largely on pen and paper or a our advisor testing process and received companions via real-time messaging is also responsive, so whether the user is on a guides and provide restaurant technology innovatively and fam trips ease the burden on parents? clients through personal experience,” says Thomas. can then get on with assessing other Microsoft Excel document strong positive feedback. They provide a before and after the trip.” desktop, mobile or tablet, the itinerary will fit to recommendations. Dani Thomas, a partner at 360 Private “I also ask my daughter what her highlights were, areas of the hotel. to plan clients’ holidays. valuable solution and are fast-emerging screen,” adds Landen. Travel in Sevenoaks, thinks so. She says then use what she says to sell to family groups. GItinerary management software offers as gems in our network.” REALISING POTENTIAL For PTS agents that have an e-commerce Reduces paper: The app enables she’s missed out on fams due to family Letting children come benefits everyone: agents, Should more suppliers offer a cost-effective, visually appealing and In February, the Virtuoso Itinerary UK-based itinerary management app merchant payment facility, PTS’s us to have all travel documents in commitments. “I’ve had to turn down their families and suppliers.” these trips? For many, the travel time-saving alternative, enabling agents Management Productivity study showed Vamoos, which this June celebrated its itinerary software offers a link for all one place without the need to print several trips because of childcare issues.” Suppliers can also use family fams to industry doesn’t offer the highest to store customer details, personal more than 3,500 of its advisors had fifth anniversary by offering users new clients to pay direct to its trust via physical copies. Any changes made “I don’t tend to put my name forward take feedback from children as well as financial rewards, so a family recommendations and destination adopted at least one of the three apps, features, is seeing a surge in popularity a card, reducing the need for agents will appear automatically in the unless it’s a destination I really want to their parents. educational can be seen as a guides on their desktop or mobile device. marking a 49% growth this year to date. too, says marketing manager Milly Morris. to chase money. client’s app. visit or I have someone to look after my Hislop believes having the personal comprises case studies heads of technology/digital great perk. If used correctly, itinerary apps can boost Those who did boosted revenue by “Since January, we increased our sales “The transparency and security of children,” agrees Paula Hardman, experience and a child’s perspective sales and encourage repeat bookings too. 29%, while 58% of agents increased the team from three to seven, have taken on payments is paramount for travel Secure: Feedback from a homeworker for Travel Counsellors. from a family fam makes it easier to Do you have any upcoming Here we speak with the technology number of trips planned after using them. some cool clients including Caribtours, businesses. PTS reconciles money customers has been great, from Allowing kids to go on fams would sell the product. “It helps to have had family fams? We are always keen providers specialising in itinerary Joseph says the advantages of Study Trips and Adventurous Ewe, and daily, and as such, each client’s our 30-something honeymooners “enable people to go that wouldn’t the family holiday experience there. to do more and we have approached building tools, as well as an agent who itinerary apps are efficiency and time- had 56,000 downloads. Our focus has account summary is accurate to 80-year-olds. We send clients a ordinarily be able to because of family Customers like the quirky angle of me a couple of hotels to see if we can has embraced the technology. saving. “The apps guide the advisor been on the UK market, but now we are and clear. In current times download link, and once installed commitments,” says Kerry Kelly, travel Villas in Crete hosted us for four nights. they each had a child with them. We did having been there with my son.” plan further family educationals. through the itinerary creation process looking to tackle the US, India, Australia consumers are becoming more on their device, all they have to do specialist and office manager at Elite It was great – we saw hotels while the the hotel tours and the kids tested out Hardman agrees that family fams are AUTOMATION AND EFFICIENCY step by step, automating formerly time- and New Zealand.” aware of security when booking is create a password, which Axus Voyages on the Isle of Man. girls enjoyed the kids’ club together. the kids’ clubs. My son got to see that a no-brainer, helping clients to better and expert advice. Luxury consortium Virtuoso introduced consuming manual tasks, helping them The updated content enables users travel, and the transparency always remembers. marketing profiles. “Agents value the opportunity of being when I go on a trip, I’m not just relaxing.” understand the different aspects of its first itinerary management tool, spot any gaps or errors in the itinerary. to customise labels and icons, display the PTS itinerary offers NOT JUST A JOLLY able to share their experience with loved “A lot of people think fam trips are a family product. “A lot of families Unmapped, four years ago. It has since For example, if an agent enters a flight entire trip details in one swipe and view ensures clients feel fully Companies including Classic Collection ones. I don’t like to leave my family jolly,” agrees Hardman. “It’s not a holiday choose a holiday based on what “Agents value being able added two more apps to speed up confirmation number, the itinerary is two holidays at once on the home page. protected,” says Landen. and GP Associates allow agents to bring behind,” she adds. but sometimes family doesn’t understand activities there are for children and agents’ workflow. populated with details such as flight Morris says the app’s USP is its With itinerary their children on selected fam trips. Family trips are also important to help that. It is great for them to experience whether their kids will be entertained. to share their experience “Many advisors were using Microsoft timings and seat numbers.” functionality. “Vamoos is completely management software “Itinerary management Thomas describes a recent fam she partners and children understand that how much hard work goes into them.” “If you took your family away with with loved ones” Word and engaging in a manual Joseph says that clients are equally customisable, meaning agents can add evolving so rapidly, attended in May with a colleague and fams are hard work. “I took my son on a It can also help family members feel you, you can tell the client what your software wows clients, process that wasn’t sustainable in impressed by the apps: “Itinerary their branding. We also offer interactive agents may never again their four-year-old daughters. “We paid trip to Sicily with Azure,” says Kelly. “We included, says Sally Hislop, travel child loved. This sort of information is the long run,” says Barbara Joseph, management software wows clients, maps, live weather reports and an need to rely on tools who have information for our own flights and Elounda Gulf were with about 10 other agents and consultant and owner of Destination like gold dust to families.” Contact: Charlotte, business development manager, agency who have information at their inspiration feature, which sends timed such as Microsoft Word Contact: Andrew, services at Virtuoso. “All three itinerary fingertips. They’re able to communicate push notifications to clients when they when planning a trip. at their fingertips”

26 TRAVEL TRADE GAZETTE 08.07.2019 08.07.2019 TRAVEL TRADE GAZETTE 27 [email protected] 40 TRAVEL TRADE GAZETTE 16.09.2019 16.09.2019 TRAVEL TRADE GAZETTE 41 [email protected]

Careers and recruitment advice Legal and HR solutions

BUSINESS ADVICE BUSINESS ADVICE BUSINESS ADVICE RECRUITING MILLENNIALS RECRUITING MILLENNIALS Includes tips from experts, MATERNITY LEAVE Draws on the expertise of

“Don’t get frustrated when the agency starts “You must show asking loads of questions. The job description isn’t how you give DOING IT MILLENNIALS enough for a recruiter to get a true idea of what your RIGHT business is all about,” she says. back to the The next step in the recruitment process – the Paul McCarroll, owner ASSEMBLE! interview – may identify the strongest candidates, coverage of careers fairs, accountants, lawyers and community – of Paul McCarroll House but it’s also important for the interviewer to act in a FACING Of Travel in Glasgow, certain way. which is of high currently employs “Don’t be afraid to add a bit of your personality importance to four millennials. Tapping into younger talent – ask the candidate about their lives and what BUMPS ALONG

they like to do in their free time. Keep every can add dynamism at your millennials” How did you recruit your interview consistent, so you can have a like-for-like millennial staff? I didn’t use THE ROAD agency. Andrew Doherty comparison between candidates. You should also traditional recruitment websites or balance the interview with biographical-based and a third-party agency. I posted the apprentice schemes and HR professionals to help explains how to attract, competency-based questions. job on Facebook and Instagram. I “Asking them about what they know about retain and communicate think social media is the best way What is “reasonable” communication during maternity leave? the role and the company will show how much of getting the word out there. Of with a Gen Y workforce research they’ve done, but you can’t ask someone’s Rebecca Jorgensen of asb law provides her insight course, customers are also brand age or if they are planning on getting married or ambassadors, and they spread the starting a family.” news of vacancies very effectively. t is well established that employers AN ALTERNATIVE OUTCOME It is not reasonable azy and entitled or enlightened MUTUAL RESPECT What did you include in the should keep in “reasonable The Employment Appeals Tribunal (EAT) 2 to expect employees future leaders? Whatever your Now you’ve got your new millennial staff onboard, travel and tourism courses. readers run their businesses job advertisement? I focused on contact” with employees who are confirmed that sending the email to the to continue to access opinion of millennials, it’s the next step is ensuring they stay with you. making it as exciting as possible, on maternity leave. However, the claimant’s work email address amounted their work email accounts. likely you will end up working Enter Jeremy Blake, co-owner and executive posing questions such as ‘how Irecent case of South West Yorkshire to unfavourable treatment. However, it Obtain their personal email Lwith, or indeed, employing them. coach at Reality Training – a UK-based organisation would you like to travel the world, Partnership NHS Foundation Trust held that this didn’t mean the employer address before they go on leave or agree A report by the Institute of Leadership specialising in sales, customer service, leadership have unforgettable experiences v Jackson and others highlighted had discriminated against the claimant. an alternative means of communication. and Management, Workforce 2020: and management training. He says managers and and make friends for life?’ You several issues for discussion. How The EAT said the employment tribunal Managing Millennials, found that by senior staff must inspire their millennial colleagues. have to get them interested in should employers communicate with should have considered the reasons why If an employee is placed at risk of 2020 Generation Y – comprising those “Staff will respect you more if you get your your business. employees on maternity? And what does the email was sent to the claimant’s work redundancy while on maternity born between 1980 and 2000 – will make hands dirty. If a manager isn’t clear on how the 3 Contact: Charlotte, “reasonable contact” look like? email address and looked for evidence leave, ensure they can engage fully with efficiently and keep within up more than 50% of the UK workforce. business works, or how to sell, then people won’t What’s your approach to this was motivated by a discriminatory the consultation process and inform The research also revealed that a listen to them.” training younger staff? Everyone FACTS OF THE CASE attitude in relation to the claimant being them promptly of any vacancies that “significant generational disconnect Practical steps to retain millennials include undertakes the same training, The claimant was on maternity leave on maternity leave. If the reason the email arise. Remember, those on maternity exists between millennials and their developing a positive corporate social responsibility regardless of age and experience. If when, along with several other employees, was sent to her work email address was leave have special protection in a older colleagues”, which could result latter, advising travel agencies to take give back to the community – which is of (CSR) policy and embracing the latest technology. you have an open mind, millennials she was put at risk of redundancy. HR an administrative error, there would be no redundancy situation in that they have in communication and retention issues. millennials seriously. high importance to millennials. “Instead of guessing what a millennial wants, can actually train you and bring sent her an email asking her to complete a discrimination. Therefore the EAT sent the an automatic right to be offered any Statistics showed 57% of the millennial She tells TTG: “People believe “All of this should be in the first three just ask them,” says Blake. “You can easily fresh ideas to the table. If they come redeployment form to allow them to match case back to the employment tribunal. suitable alternative vacancy, even if they workforce expects to move jobs within millennials are lazy or work-shy – this lines of the job advertisement. People research responsible businesses’ practices. When up with a plan that will benefit the her to other jobs within the organisation. Here are our practical tips for are not the best candidate. two years, while 40% say they will isn’t true. They are not entitled, they are spend three to five seconds reading an it comes to technology, if a business doesn’t offer cflach@ttgmediacom the law. business, then I’m onboard. This important email was sent to her communicating during an employee’s switch jobs after one year. more empowered. They understand the advertisement and will move on if it innovative digital solutions, millennials will find work email address, which she was not maternity leave: If the company needs to inform So what’s the key to attracting benefits of flexible working hours and a isn’t interesting.” it dull to work there.” Has employing millennials accessing while on maternity leave, employees on maternity leave millennial talent and, more importantly, healthy work-life balance. When it comes to getting your expertly When addressing problems or issues brought up 4 helped attract a younger instead of her personal email address. Before maternity leave, agree with of something urgent, consider using keeping them working with you? We “They also know that there are lots crafted advert into the public domain, by millennial staff, Blake says clientele? In an unbelievable way. speak with experts in recruitment and of alternatives out there, and therefore businesses must use every channel to avoid making employees go A few days later the claimant called 1 employees how they wish to be another method of communication, for I think my younger employees training to glean their top tips. know they won’t have to work with available to garner maximum exposure. through multiple channels to the HR department and a copy of the contacted while they are away from work, example posting documentation. are really hot on trends. I must one company for the rest of their lives. “From job boards and trade press to have it resolved. form was subsequently sent to her home and how frequently you will contact be one of the only people that’s THE PROPOSITION Unemployment is also lower right now, so recruitment agencies and social media, “This stops gossip and staff address. She returned it straight away. them. This may be subject to change once In conclusion, don’t be afraid to never watched Love Island, but one The claimant brought a claim in the the employee is on maternity leave. keep talking to your employees on Contact: Abra, Attracting millennials has been a hot topic there are plenty of places for them to go.” travel agencies need to employ every being put off by your business of my girls used her initiative to in travel this year. In June, ITT’s Attracting With so much competition all fishing method they can. Of course, the old practices,” he explains. employment tribunal and argued the maternity leave. Most grievances and share holiday deals inspired by the Tomorrow’s Leaders Today panel tackled in the same talent pool, Kolosinka says fashioned card in the shop window and “Ultimately, the secret to organisation’s delay in providing the claims arise where there has been show on social media. As a result the subject during the conference in Split, it’s vital to write an attractive job advert. word of mouth can work wonders, too.” retaining staff is to be kind – form to her amounted to unfavourable some misunderstanding. of their efforts, we’re looking at a while the Advantage Travel Partnership “Good candidates will be looking at it’s as simple as that. That is treatment. The employment tribunal “Remember, those on 40/60% split of millennials to older dedicated several sessions to the matter more than one job, so you need to stand A HELPING HAND more powerful than ambition agreed and awarded her £5,000 For more information please contact: clients booking, while before it was maternity leave have at its conference in Cadiz. out,” she advises. “You must show how For agencies with limited resources, and monetary rewards. in compensation even though she Rebecca Jorgensen, partner and head about 10/90%. Barbara Kolosinka, director for you are different when distributing fam working with a recruitment agency can People want to work in a hadn’t suffered any financial loss by special protection in a of employment at asb law LLP C&M Travel Recruitment, spoke at the trips, organising training, and how you ease the pressure, suggests Kolosinka. pleasant environment.” the delay. The claimant’s employer [email protected] [email protected] appealed the decision. redundancy situation” or 01293 603642.

28 TRAVEL TRADE GAZETTE 01.07.2019 01.07.2019 TRAVEL TRADE GAZETTE 29 34 TRAVEL TRADE GAZETTE 13.05.2019

Agent Profile Rep Profile

BUSINESS ADVICE BUSINESS ADVICE AGENT PROFILE A light-hearted Q&A with REP PROFILE A light-hearted Q&A with an established high street an established business Q&A: HELEN PARRY Agency: Arundel Travel Q&A: MATT EADIE Years in travel: 24 – I started as a YTS at Lunn Poly Intrepid Travel’s business development in 1995 and stayed with Tui Group until 2013, manager on dodging discarded when I joined the trade team at Jet2holidays or homeworking travel McDonald’s takeaways, eco-friendly development manager for a Years at this agency: Two – I opened my own cake deliveries and spreading the agency in December 2017 word about sustainable travel

How did you get into beaches and, of course, Best fam trip you’ve What advice would you Describe your If you could have any If you weren’t in instead of a fly-and-flop travel? their incredible food and ever been on? give your 18-year-old typical week historical figure join travel, what would getaway. Consumers are For as long as I can wine. You can also get to One of my favourites was self now? agent, with set questions. I don’t believe there’s such you at work for a day, you do instead? becoming more aware of how supplier, with set questions. remember, I wanted to be so many different places visiting the Costa Brava. My Don’t try and fit the mould, a thing on the road. Monday who would it be? If Gareth Southgate keeps travel can impact the planet a travel agent and I was from there, which is an initial thought about going break it! It’s important is my office day, when I tackle Sir David Attenborough. The declining my offers to play and want the opportunity so happy when I got my important consideration was not great. I loved this trip that businesses don’t try the previous week’s emails and man is a legend, and I don’t for England at the next World to offset it. Intrepid is YTS position at Lunn Poly. when your husband collects because I was so surprised. and change our younger reports, follow up on recent believe there is anybody Cup, I think I’d like to work the world’s largest travel I even loved wearing the fridge magnets! Next time Tossa de Mar was incredible, generation. We should be activities and plan ahead. better to help spread the for an environmental or B-Corp and aims to be the dodgy uniform! we are also going to visit as were the beautiful fortified embracing differences and The rest of the week is spent word on sustainable travel wildlife NGO. first climate-positive travel Montenegro and Slovenia. towns and villages. The building our teams using on the road visiting agents, and protecting our planet. company by 2020. With Proudest moment in beaches were stunning with uniqueness, not pressuring Contact: Abra, attending consumer shows I know he’s not exactly a small groups and local Contact: Andrew, your career to date? Most unusual request great facilities and Girona them to be something they and other evening events. historical figure, but he is What’s leaders, Intrepid offers the I have had so many moments you’ve ever had from fast became one of my are not and cannot be. still pretty old! on your most sustainable, authentic I am proud of, but cutting a client? favourite cities. We send a lot How big is the real-life experiences. bucket list? the ribbon at our opening Luckily, I have never had of our customers there and Who do you most sales team? What’s the worst event for Arundel Travel was anything too untoward, as I they have all loved it too. admire in the travel The Intrepid “dream team” service station After failed attempts What’s your advice just amazing. go bright red at the click of industry? is made up of five people. you’ve experienced? to see orcas in four for agents who don’t a finger! But one that stands My boss at Jet2holidays, We cover the whole of the I remember Cromer in Norfolk continents, this is well currently sell your Most satisfactory out is a customer whose son Alan Cross. He taught me to UK and Ireland. – neither the card reader nor and truly at the top product but are keen? booking you’ve would only eat broccoli, What’s your believe in myself and stick [email protected] the ATM worked. It put me in of my list. Please contact your local [email protected] ever made? chips and plain rice. We ‘one to watch’ to my guns. He has built an How many times did a bit of a pickle. BDM to arrange some training. When we first opened, some had to make sure the hotel destination for 2019? award-winning team from it take to pass your Intrepid trips attract a broad customers came in who had could accommodate his Bulgaria. I love that scratch, leads by example, driving test? What’s your signature range of ages, from children been married for 40 years. needs – we had some very it still embraces its sticks to the facts and Two. I failed the first one treat to deliver on Sum up your as young as five on our Their first holiday together happy customers. believes in being honest… as I had been practising in agent visits? company’s values family holidays to first-time culture and it’s was to some apartments in and tells terrible jokes! Norwich on an intensive I avoid treats with single-use Sustainable and experience- solo explorers, as well as Kassiopi in Corfu, which they What would you be such good value course, but my instructor plastic, so I usually aim to rich travel, investing in more seasoned sightseers. couldn’t remember the name doing if you weren’t a for money. What’s the daftest could only get me a test in get a cake from the local local communities and Our marketing team is also of. We did some investigating travel agent? question a client has Ipswich, which threw me. bakery. A bottle of prosecco providing the best travel ready to assist you with any and managed to find the I would run a little B&B ever asked you? is pretty popular for evening experience ever. marketing content to help property. The customers were in the countryside with Best advice you’ve ever Last year I was photographed What gives you training sessions. you promote our style of just so delighted – it brought goats in the garden. I make been given? with my heart-throb Martin road rage? What key messages travel to your customers. a tear to my eye. a brilliant cooked breakfast. Add in a 20% contingency. If Kemp. I must have used this I’m pretty chilled, but once What do you like to do you try to convey I can remember when I I hadn’t taken this advice, I photo a lot on social media a guy in front of me threw do when you are not in an agent visit? For more information email: What’s your favourite couldn’t even boil an egg would have had to go cap in because a customer asked if a McDonald’s meal out on the road? The UK market is changing, Matt at matt.eadie@ destination? and my mum bought me hand to the bank of Mum and I’d ever get bored of looking of his car window. He felt I love to play sport, listen with more holidaymakers intrepidtravel.com or you Croatia – the history, the Delia Smith How to Dad – and I think I’m a bit at it, to which I politely the brunt of my horn, but to music and plan my next wanting a cultural or can contact the team on architecture, people, Cook book. old for that now. responded: “Erm, NO!” he just gave me the finger! adventure abroad. adventurous experience [email protected]

30 TRAVEL TRADE GAZETTE 08.07.2019 32 TRAVEL TRADE GAZETTE 01.07.2019 ON OUR RADAR

ON OUR RADAR BRAZIL A page that shines a spotlight on

ON OUR RADAR FORTALEZA a lesser-known destination. The By Andrew Doherty coverage is often the result of a TTG journalist attending a tourist Abra Dunsby Charlotte FLACH Andrew Doherty board event or conducting a Acting features editor Acting deputy Senior features reporter

edonistic nightlife, plenty of there is plenty to do in the evenings is considered a mecca for sailing and cultural attractions and more too. Recommend clients visit the Ponte windsurfing. In particular, the village of than 18 miles of beaches dos Ingleses, which has been modelled Cumbuco, 15 miles north-west of the city is make Fortaleza a great after Brighton Pier, for sunsets and a popular location for adrenaline junkies [email protected] features editor [email protected] Hall-rounder to suit a variety of clients. breathtaking views of the coast. seeking a thrilling day on the water. And with a new service from Air On Thursday evenings, Praia do Futuro “We are so excited about the new Europa launching this December, getting welcomes live music and DJs. A short taxi route and look forward to developing our tourism director interview. to the capital of Ceara state in north-east ride will take clients looking to bust a Brazilian network,” said Stewart. Brazil should be easier than ever. few moves to cocktail bar Arre Egua. Here, “Fortaleza offers a perfect mix of sun, I spoke with the airline’s UK and they can rub shoulders with locals, or if great hotels and culture.” Ireland country director, Colin Stewart, they are brave enough, grab a partner to +44 (0)20 3714 4112 [email protected] +44 (0)20 3405 6526 at a recent event. attempt the forro, a waltz-like dance. “We will be operating two flights Along Beira-Mar Avenue, visitors can ESSENTIAL INFORMATION a week from Gatwick via Madrid T1, sample local specialities and explore the Flights: Commencing 20 which offers a smooth transition with seafood market renowned for its fresh December, Air Europa will offer Contact: Abra, no connecting terminal. This will be our shrimp, while craft fairs offer opportunities two flights weekly from Gatwick fourth Brazilian destination, joining Sao to purchase leather goods and clothes. via Madrid. Flight time is 10 hours. @AbraDunsbyTTG +44 (0)20 3714 4113 @Andrew_TTG Paulo, Salvador and Recife. Fortaleza is Art lovers have plenty to enjoy too. Currency: The Brazilian real. already popular with the Latin American The Dragao do Mar Center of Art and Climate: The region enjoys market, but we wanted to open up Culture is home to several on-site year-round high temperatures, somewhere new for UK travellers.” museums, including the Ceara Museum reaching a maximum of 33°C Sun worshippers typically flock to of Contemporary Art and Praca Verde, (January) and lows of 22°C (July). Iracema beach, the perfect spot to work which offers a programme of more than Visa: UK travellers do not require on a tan by day, while an abundance 450 dance, music and circus shows a year. [email protected] a visa to visit Brazil. @Charlotte_Flach of restaurants, bars and clubs ensures With perfect wind conditions, Fortaleza

30.09.2019 TRAVEL TRADE GAZETTE 45

FEATURES

The features list is online at ttgmedia.com/advertising/media-packs. Please contact Abra to receive a synopsis for a feature six weeks ahead of the publication date. We keep a spreadsheet of key contacts for every feature area and try to send the synopsis out when it’s ready. If you’d like to be added to the list, tell us which feature and for which client. If you don’t receive a synopsis, do ask – sometimes we might have little space for additional news so we don’t actively canvas for more.

Colour features Themed round-up pieces

CARIBBEAN CARIBBEAN RAIL HOLIDAYS JAMAICA JAMAICA Our journalists frequently SINGLE-CENTRE TRIPS These round-ups will

travel to write product and — relate to the features RAILBLAZERS — destination features, so Single-centre rail travel allows clients to explore a list. Examples of themes — destination in depth, without the hassle of staying in BEYOND THE BEACHES multiple hotels. Charlotte Flach rounds up the options

— or clients who love to discover a new F destination, but who are less keen on we’re keen to receive press the idea of travelling extensively or include single-centre While Jamaica is still a fly-and-flop haven, staying in several hotels, a single-centre rail holiday might appeal. it also offers a wealth of cultural and socially These trips give travellers the opportunity to conscious experiences away from the resorts, as immerse themselves in a destination and gain insights from a guide while experiencing the Andrew Doherty finds on a trip to Montego Bay trip invites. Setting up a pleasure and convenience of train travel. rail journeys for a Rail

’m holding my breath, keeping as still as I possible. The slightest movement might scare away my new friends. Tentatively, I hold out my hand, making sure the nectar dispenser doesn’t swing too much. Suddenly a burst of colour. Reds, greens, blues, fusing like bespoke trip where we’ll Travel feature and the spilt petrol at 50mph, inches from my face. I’m in the grounds of Ahhh…Ras Natango Gallery and Garden overlooking Montego Bay, attempting to feed a family of hummingbirds. “This is Rocky, Jack, Rudi and Rudi 2,” beams founder Ras. “There are so many of them, I have to give them a sequel!” Ras, a painter and Rastafarian, bought this land 30 years ago. Now he sells his art – which has get exclusive angles for our latest hotel openings for been commissioned by Jamaica’s hotels, including Montego Bay’s Half Moon – from the property. His wife Tamika, a former farmer and avid horticulturalist, has created a hillside garden in which she hosts small group tours, educating visitors on the Rasta ethos and the importance of looking after the planet. “This place first and foremost is our home,” Ras tells me. “I never readership can sometimes a Greece and Cyprus intended it to become a business. However, when I saw the work my wife put into the gardens, 44 TRAVEL TRADE GAZETTE 06.05.2019 06.05.2019 TRAVEL TRADE GAZETTE 45 be preferable to a group 19.08.2019 TRAVEL TRADE GAZETTE 43 feature. Each entry will press trip. Images are include information, a extremely important, so please do bear this in mind. Colour useful quote from a product manager or similar and a trade pieces include a Smarter, Better, Fairer box, with selling tips bookable package, as well as high-resolution imagery. and responsible practice advice for agents. Contact: Abra, [email protected] Contact: Abra, [email protected]

Q&A Hot list

CARIBBEAN HOT CARIBBEAN RAINFOREST TOUR An interview with heads of tourist HOT LIST LIST We save space for news snippets in our boards, chief executives or supplier sales ANDREW DOHERTY ROUNDS UP THE LATEST NEWS FROM THE CARIBBEAN ANDREW’S product and destination features, but they Are there any dangerous PICK plants or animals living on St Kitts? No, not really. There are growths of nettles to be aware of, but when I host tours I ensure the path is always What’s your favourite clear. There are monkeys overhead Kittitian food? too, who are really quite harmless – I prefer to eat traditional Kittitian directors, tied in with a relevant feature. TROPICAL GEM NEW AMIGO SKY’S THE LIMIT need to be recent announcements (i.e they just like to watch you! food at home. My wife loves to Now Emerald Cancun, an AMResorts Beaches Resorts has introduced a new Bequia Beach Hotel has partnered with prepare meals for me, including rice Q&A: O’NEIL MULRAINE property, has opened. The family-friendly Sesame Street walkaround character Bequia Air to offer VIP transfers from How many guided treks do you and beans served with steamed, fried hotel has 427 rooms, a spa and live at three of its resorts – Beaches Negril Barbados. Clients can board a nine-seat St Kitts rainforest tour guide take a day? or barbecue fish. As I get older, fish nightly entertainment. Funway offers and Beaches Ocho Rios in Jamaica, and Beechcraft King Air B200 for a journey If I am doing a rainforest hike I will provides great nutrients for my body seven nights from £1,350pp with flights, Beaches Turks & Caicos. Bilingual Rosita that’s up to 50% faster than regular air take two per day – one at 8.30am and keeps me healthy. based on a 12 December departure. will teach Spanish to children of all ages. services. Priced from £509pp return. and the next at 1.30pm. If I am amresorts.com sellingsandals.co.uk bequiabeachhotel.com doing a hike up Mount Liamuiga, Do you have any favourite We also run more light-hearted Q&As with How long have you been a the dormant volcano, I will only do spots to explore? released 2-4 weeks before publication date rainforest guide for? one, as this takes a lot longer. It’s There are so many things to do in I’ve been a tour guide for 41 years a challenging experience. I would St Kitts, despite its size. We have now. It’s my passion and I love it! recommend visitors practise hiking at lush green rainforests and mountain home before giving it a go! lands to explore, you can relax at How did you become so the beach, take in a spot of fishing knowledgeable about St Kitts’ How long does it take to reach or go shopping. The Sugar Bay area plants and wildlife? the peak? is great for swimming. My favourite The knowledge I have is a build-up of The whole journey, starting from spot on the island is my farm in the travel industry personalities, especially for that feature) and not already covered years of learning on the job – I’m 62. when I pick guests up in my 4x4, mountains. There, I plant peppers, My grandparents were very involved can take anywhere from four to six bananas and herbs that my wife and CORAL CONSERVATION REGAL GETAWAY BAJAN DREAM with homoeopathy, so I learnt a lot hours – which mostly depends on I use for cooking. Iberostar Group has recently opened Royalton Antigua Resort and Spa If Only and The Villa Collection has about herbs and plants through their the speed of the hikers. We head a marine protection lab at Iberostar has now opened. The hotel features teamed up to offer luxury homes this teachings, which passed down to me. right up to the top of Liamuiga What’s your favourite thing Punta Cana. The centre – created to help Antigua’s first overwater bungalows, summer. Highlights include Reeds House 9 There are more than 400 species of (to 1,156 metres), where there are about living on St Kitts? reduce Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease the resort collection’s first microbrewery in Barbados, featuring a private pool, plants and herbs in the rainforest, phenomenal views of the forest and I have not been to many places (SCTLD) and encourage responsible and the option for guests to upgrade to outdoor seating and car hire. An eight- and I love learning about them and the mountain’s crater bowl. around the world, but I know those with unusual or interesting roles e.g tourism – is now open for guests. Diamond Club for butler service. day stay starts from £1,149pp for four. teaching people who visit the island. that St Kitts offers something very by the news team. Also includes agent iberostaragents.com royaltonresorts.com ifonly.net Can families enjoy your unique and special. I believe it is What is your favourite plant forest treks? the best country in the world – no or herb on St Kitts? Yes, there are plenty of routes other place is quite like it, from its There are so many plants and herbs available for new and seasoned friendly people to stunning natural that are great for different things, so hikers, and they are suitable for the beauty. St Kitts is what I know and I don’t have a favourite. However, a whole family, both young and old. what I love. fantastic hangover cure is stinkweed For families, I’d recommend the – mash up the plant in a cup of rainforest hike as it is much easier How can clients book onto “a director of romance”, a conservationist offers. Attaching a couple of eye-catching, hot water and add some coffee and and suitable for all ages, whereas your tours? sugar to help with the taste. You’ll the Mount Liamuiga volcano Tours can be booked from any St Kitts feel better in no time! My favourite hike is better suited to fitter, more hotel concierge desk. The rainforest flower is the St Kitts national flower experienced hikers. Guests will be hike is priced from £52pp while the COCO LOCO GRAND GRENADA LEVELLING UP – the red and yellow flamboyant. It’s able to enjoy St Kitts’ lush rainforest full-day Mount Liamuiga excursion The St Kitts Nevis Restaurant Week Travel 2 has added the Calabash Luxury Renovations at East Winds have been particularly beautiful in summer. and wildlife on all routes. costs from £64pp. (18-28 July) is celebrating its fifth Boutique Hotel to its Latin America and completed. The $3 million cash injection outing on the islands. Clients can enjoy Caribbean portfolio. The operator offers has seen upgrades to the St Lucian or a celebrity with a travel hook. discounted prices across restaurants as seven nights at the Grenada-based resort resort’s bedrooms and restaurants, high-resolution pictures is essential. well as a selection of speciality dishes with flights and transfers included from including a total rebuild of the Sunset bar incorporating this year’s coconut theme. £2,179pp, based on travel on 7 October. and the creation of a new fitness centre. restaurantweek.kn travel2.com eastwinds.com Contact: Abra, [email protected] 46 TRAVEL TRADE GAZETTE 08.07.2019 Contact: Abra, [email protected]

3 New POSTED PICTURE PAGE

POSTED SOLO TOURING #ttgmedia 3 WOMEN-ONLY BREAKS A page highlighting three new products, A page depicting travel agents out and

LETTING OFF STEAM: Exsus Travel took eight agents on a fam to Iceland, LET’S HEAR IT where they spent six days covering must-see attractions and experiences such as an ATV ride at the Gullfoss FOR THE GIRLS with bookable packages for each. Previous waterfall, hiking across a glacier and about at events. Please submit photos of relaxing in hot pools at the Blue Lagoon. With an increasing number of women opting to travel solo, it pays to be up to date with the latest product. Andrew Doherty profiles three travel companies innovating in this space and highlights some of the tours they offer examples include “3 new female-only agents and agent-facing events (that do PRIDE AND JOY: African Pride took agents on a fam to Tanzania in March. Trip highlights included visits to the For creative types For desert adventurers For nature lovers Tarangire national park, Lake Manyara and the Ngorongoro Crater. Damesly Elle Voyage Wilderness Scotland tours” in a Touring and Adventure feature not conflict with our own). Images must

EASTER TREATS: Bourne Leisure’s ISLAND LIFE: The Tobago Tourism Craig Secker visited Phoebe Pearce, Agency took six consultants on a fam Carly Hinder and Anna Andrews at Tui’s trip to explore the Caribbean island. Chippenham branch to deliver Easter Activities included rainforest exploration and “3 new quirky accommodation options goodies as well as news from Butlin’s, as well as visits to Pigeon Point and the be high-resolution, and we will need names Haven and Warner Leisure Hotels. Tobago Cocoa Estate. Founded in 2016 by Kelly Lewis – the “I started the company in January 2019 In January, adventure operator creator of feminist city guides Go! Girl for women aged 30 to 60 who want to Wilderness Scotland launched a series Guides – Damesly offers commissionable travel but have no one to go with or of women-only guided tours, designed tours with an educational element to who have put other commitments first to help clients embrace their love of the professional women aged 30-60. in the past,” says Elle Voyage founder outdoors and meet like-minded travellers. “When we began, the tour industry Dawn Simone. “We were getting a lot of enquiries was geared either towards an older The tour operator places clients with from solo female clients, so there demographic or college students on big like-minded individuals in small groups was definitely a market there,” says in New Zealand” in an Australasia feature. and companies if there are four or fewer bus tours,” Lewis explains. of up to 12 people, offering the chance programme manager Rachael Gavan. She says the brand’s ethos is about to interact with local women in The operator offers guided sea creating experiences that enable female destinations including Africa, Asia, the kayaking, cycling and walking clients to relax in a way that might not Middle East, Mexico and Scandinavia. itineraries in the Scottish Highlands and be possible with men around. One of the operator’s trips is The Jewel islands, aimed at clients aged 50 to 70. “One of our most popular options, of Jordan, during which clients will “Our qualified guides take clients off Cameras + Canyons, is a photography spend time with Bedouin women before the beaten track to truly connect with tour that begins with a two-hour staying overnight in their camp. the nature and landscapes of Scotland. Each entry also requires expert comment people in the picture. workshop with a professional female “This experience is unique, as these Travelling solo can be intimidating, but photographer,” says Lewis. “Clients learn women don’t usually interact with being with people at similar fitness levels to shoot manually on their digital cameras tourists,” explains Simone. “My goal is means clients feel supported,” says Gavan. while exploring the Grand Canyon.” to create a community of women who DRESSED TO IMPRESS: Prestige Holidays celebrated its 30th will become lifelong friends.” BOOK IT anniversary with a party for agents and supplier partners at the BOOK IT Wilderness Scotland offers the five-night Cameras + Canyons is priced from BOOK IT Sea Kayaking the Summer Isles tour from Corinthia Hotel in London. More than 150 guests enjoyed a champagne £1,424pp including some meals. Elle Voyage offers the seven-night £925pp for a 22 June departure. All meals from a product manager or similar. reception, a three-course dinner and the company of Good Morning Contact: Andrew, [email protected] Flights are not included. Jewel of Jordan tour from £1,499pp. and kayaking equipment included. Britain presenter Richard Arnold, who co-hosted the evening. • damesly.com • ellevoyage.life • wildernessscotland.com 50 TRAVEL TRADE GAZETTE 27.05.2019 Contact: Abra, [email protected] 42 TRAVEL TRADE GAZETTE 15.04.2019

24 HOURS IN

EXPEDITION CRUISE 24 HOURS IN LONGYEARBYEN This feature will largely be written by

For clients in-house journalists and freelancers cruising the Arctic, n flying into Longyearbyen over snowy mountain peaks, it’s easy to see why this town is seen as the main gateway the Norwegian town of to the top of the world. As the capital of Svalbard – the Longyearbyen is a key Norwegian archipelago inhabited by polar bears located deep in embarkation point. the Arctic Circle – it is a key arrival point for adventurers looking to join one of the many expedition ships that depart here during Sara Macefield looks at summer. Situated on the main island of Spitsbergen, this former how to make the most mining settlement is an unprepossessing place embraced by its who have attended a press trip and of 24 hours there. 2,100-strong population, but it contains a smattering of tourist attractions and activities for the flow of summer visitors. spent time in a particular destination.

07:00 09:30 13:00 Rise and shine! There are a string of Head out of the city on a morning Alternatively, visitors hotels and guest houses, with the dog-sledding safari with the family- can take a shorter husky centrally located Radisson Blu run Arctic Husky Travellers, located trip and return in time to Polar Hotel, Basecamp Hotel and six miles outside Longyearbyen. In join a tour to “Coal Mine 3” The feature is divided into six different Svalbard Hotell The Vault, which summer, when the snow has melted, – one of seven such mines opened last year. Funken Lodge sits the sleds run on wheels across that put Longyearbyen on the map. above the town and has beautiful the remote Arctic tundra, where This coalmine closed in 1996 but views, while a short walk from the reindeer and birdlife can be spotted. visitors can view the workshop as town centre are the Coal Miners’ Following lunch at the husky farm, it was left by workers and walk 300 Cabins, once used by mineworkers guests can stride out on a hike to metres into the mountain, crawling but now a B&B. And it shouldn’t be uncover the area’s rich plant life. through a specially constructed too hard to get up in midsummer as tunnel designed to give a flavour the sun never fully sets. of how the miners worked. time slots and generally includes a call

15:00 18:00 20:00 It’s easy to explore Longyearbyen’s Thirsty souls can sample local Visitors can attractions as everything is close beers on a 90-minute tour of the enjoy light summer by but remind clients to stay in Svalbard Bryggeri, or Brewery, evenings at a surprisingly the town as beyond its limits polar which was established in 2011 good choice of dining haunts, to action from a tourist board or trade- bears are a threat. The Svalbard and uses 2,000-year-old glacial including the renowned Huset and Museum’s collections recount the water in its brews. As Svalbard Funktionærmessen restaurants region’s history, culture and natural is a duty-free zone, shoppers that serve Nordic specialities. attributes while the North Pole can snap up outdoor clothing Located in a former mining Expedition Museum offers and equipment at sports stores company warehouse is the gourmet absorbing artefacts. It’s such as Arctica AS. Pick up Gruvelageret restaurant while the worth visiting the WildPhoto souvenirs from stores such as lively Svalbar pub and Barentz Gallery to see images of 78° Taxfree, Scandinavian Gastropub serve pizzas, burgers, friendly tour operator. local scenes and wildlife designer clothes from Frost and even fish and chips. created by two acclaimed Spitsbergen or jewellery from local photographers. Gullgruva Arctic Design. en.visitsvalbard.com 68 TRAVEL TRADE GAZETTE 15.04.2019 Contact: Abra, [email protected]