TB 27 08 2021 Cover_Layout 1 26/08/2021 13:04 Page 1
August 27 2021 | ISSUE NO 4,180 | travelbulletin.co.uk Giving agents the edge
AGENT BULLETIN IN THE HOT SEAT AUSTRALASIA CYPRUS Get prepared with our Qatar National Tourism Council’s Head down under and see the From laid-back opulence to choices of top training updates as the nation gears up surprises on offer across lively nightlife, our top picks courses and incentives. for the World Cup next year. Australasia. from the island destination.
EGYPT Be it glimpses into the ancient world or heaps of indulgent luxury, check out all the destination has to offer. Cover pic : Adobe Stock S01 TB 27 08 2021 Start_Layout 1 26/08/2021 16:21 Page 2 S01 TB 27 08 2021 Start_Layout 1 26/08/2021 13:10 Page 3
AUGUST 27 2021 | travelbulletin.co.uk NEWS BULLETIN 3 THIS WEEK GREECE IS THE WORD 04 Travel Counsellors’ latest survey shows that Greece tops Spain as the UK’s top choice holiday destination. NEWS The latest updates from the travel industry.
07 AGENT BULLETIN If Only offers a £100 Love2shop voucher to a top seller, and more!
08 Greece has surpassed other popular destinations as a top holiday choice for Brits. SHOWCASE BULLETIN All the action from our LGBT DESPITE SPAIN and Greece led by the USA, the increases and there are more showcase. both remaining on the amber Maldives and Barbados. countries turning to amber list, Greece has now Kirsten Hughes, UK from red. However, people overtaken Spain as the most managing director at Travel still need to ensure they are popular destination for Brits Counsellors, commented: aware of the FCDO advice on in summer 2021, according “With Spain and Greece entry requirements, as we to Travel Counsellors. remaining on the ‘amber list’, await the UAE to align with 11 Travel Counsellors’ latest we are experiencing a the latest traffic light news, statistics show that 16% of considerable demand for for example. CYPRUS Thematic routes, scenic hotels and all new holiday bookings, both countries, in particular Our latest stats also show holiday packages to choose from. made in the week Greece, which has become that customers are booking commencing July 26, 2021 our most popular summer well ahead, which may bring were for Greek destinations, sun destination. We also a potential capacity issue for narrowly surpassing Spain expect an upsurge in summer 2022, as (15%) and UK staycations bookings to France now it’s holidaymakers are booking (15%). moved from ‘amber plus’ to their breaks now instead of The company has also ‘amber’, as-well as the UAE in early January. This is why 15 experienced a 39% upsurge which has moved from ‘red’ it is key to get trusted travel in new bookings for summer to ‘amber’, meaning that advice from our Travel AUSTRALASIA From new hiking trails to sun- 2022 – with the top Britons will no longer need to Counsellors, as they are in soaked beach holidays. destinations being Greece, quarantine on return. On the the best position to help the USA and Spain – as well whole, we feel the latest customers navigate through as a 20% increase in new news is certainly a positive the current challenges,” bookings for winter 21/22 – step forward, as the green list Kristen concludes. 20
EGYPT Published by : Printed by: Buxton Press @TravelBulletin Discover all the ancient nation has Alain Charles Publishing (Travel) Ltd Subscriptions are £125 p.a. 020 7973 0136 @TravelBulletin to offer with our top choices. University House, 11-13 Lower Grosvenor £195 overseas Place London, SW1W 0EX ISSN: 0956-2419 www.travelbulletin.co.uk Travel_Bulletin S01 TB 27 08 2021 Start_Layout 1 26/08/2021 13:10 Page 4
4 NEWS BULLETIN AUGUST 27 2021 | travelbulletin.co.uk
Qatar Tourism and CLIA establish partnership The Harbor Club Saint Lucia highlights QATAR TOURISM and commitment to trade Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) UK & THE HARBOR Club Saint Lucia is Ireland have announced a reinforcing its commitment to the
partnership that will Image Credit: Adobe Stock UK and Irish trade with the aim of enhance Qatar’s brand growing its presence and boosting awareness across the agent knowledge. region, and amongst CLIA’s The resort’s newly appointed PR wider community of cruise agency, Orbis PR, will work lines, travel agents and alongside the retained Trade Sales stakeholders. team at Silva Lining to ensure As part of the partnership, agents are always up to date on Qatar Tourism will be one of the hotel’s latest developments, the main headline sponsors have access to information on its of the CLIA Selling Cruise latest booking incentives and are All eyes are on Qatar, as the country is set to host the 2022 FIFA World Cup. Day on November 4, 2021 in aware of new opportunities for Southampton and will Andy Harmer, CLIA UK & increasingly popular with training and education. sponsor the annual CLIA Ireland managing director, cruisers and we’re all looking The Harbor Club has plans to Cruise Forum in December said: “We’re very excited to forward to seeing ships start redefine its offering with a series 2021. welcome Qatar Tourism to visiting the exceptional of new developments launching in As of July 12, 2021, Qatar the CLIA family. Their facilities of the Doha port the coming months. With the aim re-opened its borders to support for the trade is a and its surroundings again.” of helping agents to secure sales, fully vaccinated international clear indication they are Silva Lining and Orbis PR will travellers by vaccines looking to build positive To find out more endeavour to boost awareness of approved for use by the cruise momentum. The information, visit Ministry of Public Health. region was proving www.visitqatar.qa
Eurostar adds more high-speed services to Europe
EUROSTAR IS adding more trains between Travellers can book with confidence the UK and the continent, in response to knowing that all tickets are flexible, with no growing demand following the removal of exchange fee up to seven days before
quarantine for fully vaccinated travellers. departure, offering peace of mind should Image Credit: Harbor Club From September 6 until November 1, eight travel restrictions or plans change. these updates, clearly define The daily return services will operate, with five in All travellers must wear a mask on board Harbor Club’s positioning and offer each direction on the London to Paris route and in stations, this continues to apply after agents key selling tips to help and three in each direction between London check-in at London St Pancras. them successfully secure and Brussels, with one each way extended to Travellers should ensure they comply bookings. Rotterdam and Amsterdam. with the requirements for their destination The expanded timetable offers improved country. For further information about The flexibility to both business and leisure Harbor Club, Saint Lucia, visit travellers, with value fares from £39 each way. www.Eurostar.com www.theharborclub.com.
Mauritius looks forward to October border reopening
THE REPUBLIC of Mauritius is looking forward to the full reopening of its borders on October 1, when vaccinated international travellers will be welcomed in without restrictions. Visitors who present a negative PCR test taken in the 72 hours before their departure will be able to explore the island freely from the moment they arrive. Mauritius opened for international travel in the middle of July, and currently, vaccinated guests spend 14 days in a ‘resort bubble’ hotel. www.mauritiusnow.com Image Credit: Adobe Stock S02 TB 27 08 2021 News_Layout 1 26/08/2021 13:19 Page 5
AUGUST 27 2021 | travelbulletin.co.uk NEWS BULLETIN 5
British Airways to resume services to St. Kitts & Nevis BRITISH AIRWAYS has announced the resumption of service from Gatwick to the Federation, St. Kitts and Nevis on Sunday, October 3, 2021. St. Kitts & Nevis will welcome fully vaccinated international air travellers from the UK from September 1, 2021. The flight will operate on two consecutive Sundays, October 3 and October 10, providing once a week service for those two weeks. Twice-weekly service on Saturdays and Wednesdays will commence from Saturday, October 16, 2021. www.britishairways.com Image Credit: Adobe Stock
AmaWaterways responds to growing demand for autumn 2023 Black Diamond is Slovenian Tourist AMAWATERWAYS HAS launched a third ‘Seven River Board’s PR partner Journey’ for autumn 2023. THE SLOVENIAN Tourist Board Taking guests through 14 (STB) has appointed Black Diamond countries over 47 days, the as its PR agency for the UK. autumn sailing will take place Black Diamond will guide the during many regions’ wine STO through strategic activities, harvest and autumn foliage. communicating the country’s Based on the popularity of handling of Covid-19, while spring and summer editions, focusing on niche activities, such AmaWaterways is providing as outdoor adventure and nature,
another opportunity for Image Credit: Amawaterways boutique five-star experiences, guests to experience an A biking tour through the town of Les Andelys is part of the programme. cities and culture, and extended holiday through gastronomy, all while positioning Europe. The cruise will beautiful regions of Europe from Paris on AmaLyra to sail the country as an easy-to-reach embark on August 24, 2023 during one of my favourite along the Seine River, before destination this summer. from Paris, France, returning times of year, the delightful transferring to AmaCerto in Guy Chambers, managing on October 9 to Giurgiu, autumn season,” said Kristin Amsterdam to experience all director of Black Diamond, said: Romania. Cruise fares start Karst, executive vice the sites along the Scheldt, “We are excited to have been from £21,830 per guest. president and co-founder of Maas, Rhine, Main and chosen by the team at Slovenia to “Our Seven River Journeys AmaWaterways. Moselle rivers. Travellers’ represent them during this have generated such an Guests sailing aboard the journey concludes with two recovery year. Our teams ability to amazing response from our ‘Seven River Journey - weeks on board AmaVerde guests, and we are delighted Autumn Edition’ will enjoy sailing the full length of the to offer yet another many amenities, a host of Danube. opportunity for travellers to cuisine choices, and new immerse themselves in the experiences. Guests embark www.AmaWaterways.co.uk
Experience Oxfordshire launches Arts and Culture campaign Sloveinia.info
EXPERIENCE OXFORDSHIRE announced the theatres and festivals. Experience Oxfordshire
launch of a new Arts and Culture campaign, in will highlight the Arts and Culture in Image Credit: partnership with Oxfordshire’s arts, heritage Oxfordshire via a dedicated landing page on place the right media at the right and culture sector, to promote Oxford and its website, which will also include a time is well-placed to capitalise on Oxfordshire as a world-renowned promotional video capturing the diversity and UK visitation to this experience-led cultural destination. talent that can be found across the county. It destination with its dynamic and The Inspirational Oxfordshire campaign, will also promote the numerous events untouched nature, and to ensure which launched on August 19, celebrates the happening throughout the summer to an we meet current consumer demand.” wealth of arts and culture across the county extensive audience through its website, social Slovenia offers various outdoor and will run until October 2021. It involves 32 media channels and targeted e-mail experiences all year round. cultural organisations across Oxfordshire, campaigns, all using #InspirationalOx . ranging from museums and art galleries to www.experienceoxfordshire.org www.slovenia.info S02 TB 27 08 2021 News_Layout 1 26/08/2021 13:20 Page 6
6 NEWS BULLETIN AUGUST 27 2021 | travelbulletin.co.uk
AGENT INSIGHT JET2.COM HAS increased capacity to green list destinations throughout August and September, with extra Malta services on Tuesdays from SANDRA MURRAY Manchester; Fridays from Stansted; and, Sundays from Birmingham and Newcastle. Additional Croatia services will operate on Saturdays NORMANTON, YORKSHIRE from Stansted and Sundays from Manchester. An extra Madeira Sunday service has launched from Stansted. www.jet2.com FIRST OF all, can I please ask everyone to support the 22nd Yorkshire Travel Ball on Thursday, September 23? The animal charities involved are desperate for our support. it is at the Village Hotel, junction 28, Riviera Travel cruises return M62, South Leeds. Tables of 10 are £997, half a table of five is priced at £488 and single tickets are £97, for 2021 which includes drinks on arrival, a three-course meal and half a bottle of wine. There will be great FOR THE first time in 2021, Riviera Travel has operated its entertainment - Groovething sponsored by Jet2 and a popular European river and yacht cruises. Magic Mirror by Classic Collection. It will be a brilliant ‘Douro, Porto & Salamanca’ took to the seas on August 20, night, please support it! To book, email me at 2021, as guests arrived in Porto for the eight-day voyage. [email protected] . Croatian yacht cruises will restart from August 28, with ‘The It is great to see Jet2 raising capacity to green list Seine, Paris & Normandy’ sailing on August 31, followed by countries Malta, Madeira and Croatia from BHX, ‘Burgundy, the River Rhone & Provence’ on September 6 and STN, MAN and NCL. ‘Medieval Germany’ on September 9. It is also good to see Kenya doing well with its Sailings are available up to November 22, 2021, with conservation; they are making an effort to protect departures exclusively for solo cruisers available. wildlife. I hope even more policies are implemented To celebrate its return to the continent’s rivers, the cruise with regard to poaching and animal safety, especially line has unveiled a host of offers. the needless killing for Ivory. I have a soft spot for All river cruises include inbound and outbound testing and a Kenya, as it was the first educational trip I went on in free drinks package, covering all draught beer, house wines, 1993, after just opening my shop 'Sandy Travel' in non-alcoholic beer, soft drinks and juices. 1992, and fell in love with all the wildlife and became a keen supporter of wild animals and conservation. It seems that I am not the only one fed up with the hype about testing and the costs associated with travel at the moment. I really think companies should not be able to charge what they want and hike prices up. It is bad enough having to follow all the rules without some companies being greedy! I bet I’m not the only one fed up of hearing about people refusing vaccinations. Let’s all remain positive that travel is going to get better. I, for one, am desperate to go to Crete! One The cruise line took to the continent’s rivers once again on thing I do believe is that perhaps more people will August 20, 2021. think twice about doing holiday bookings themselves. It seems increasingly safer and more An extra £100 off per person is available on all voyages, with convenient for people to use a travel agent, someone no single supplement on selected cabins. who is an expert, to book their holidays! Yacht cruises include the courtesy testing offer and £100 per person saving. For any questions or comments, email Sandy at [email protected] www.rivieratravel.co.uk S02 TB 27 08 2021 News_Layout 1 26/08/2021 13:20 Page 7
AUGUST 27 2021 | travelbulletin.co.uk AGENT BULLETIN 7
AGENT INCENTIVES
● AFTER A 15-month hiatus, Scenic and Emerald Cruises has relaunched its ‘River Rewards & More’ incentive scheme. For each river cruise booking, agents earn a minimum of 100 points, with 150 points awarded for escorted touring bookings and 200 for bookings aboard Scenic Eclipse of Emerald Azzurra. Points can be exchanged for perks, ranging from personalised gym towels to luxury items and cruises. Sign up at www.riverrewards.cruises
● IN CELEBRATION of its new Northern Lights flight experiences, Omega Breaks has launched an agent- exclusive competition, offering one lucky winner two seats aboard one of the flights. The fortunate agent will take to the sky with an expert astronomy team to search for the Aurora Borealis. Agents must send an e-mail to trade sales manager Claire Dutton ([email protected]) explaining who they would take with them and why, by August 31, 2021 to be in with a chance of winning.
● JET2HOLIDAYS IS giving independent agents the chance to make the most of e-shot sales with its new ‘E-Shot Hotshots’ campaign. The operator is LUXURY OPERATOR If Only... has teamed up with Atlantis distributing weekly The Palm, Dubai to offer a £100 Love2Shop voucher to the content to help agent who makes the most bookings by October 31, 2021, agents optimise as part of its ‘Making Waves’ campaign. www.ifonly.net their e-shots via its media library. By adding [email protected] to their e-shot mailing list, agents can earn one entry into a prize draw per e-shot distributed. Prizes include radio advertisements and office AGENT TRAINING refits. Entries close on September 12, 2021.
AS QATAR gears up to host the World Cup next year, find out all the destination has to offer with the TAWASH Online Training Programme. Five short modules let agents work at their own pace as they find out about the range of accommodation, from traditional souqs to luxury hotels, adventurous desert excursions and the art and culture behind the haven. COMPETITIONS www.tawashqatar.com
VISIT MALTA is engaging with its trade partners by incentivising its online training. While learning about all Win a three-night the island’s expansive diving locations and underwater havens waiting to be explored in the ‘Scuba Diving stay for two people Training Course’, agents will have the chance to win a gastronomy and gift hamper. The course must be on an all-inclusive completed by September 6, 2021 to be in with a chance of basis at the Be Live winning. www.malta-training.com Experience La Niña in Tenerife!
PATA HAS announced the return of its in-person training For all competitions visit events, starting with ‘Taste of PATA London’ on September http://www.travelbulletin.co.uk/competitions 15, 2021. Prizes available to attendees include Thailand or Taiwan fam trip places, an Ultimate Aussie hamper and a pair of tickets aboard a Malaysia Airlines flight to Kuala Lumpur. Register at https://pata.org.uk/event/taste-of- pata-london-15th-september-2021/ S02 TB 27 08 2021 News_Layout 1 26/08/2021 13:20 Page 8
LGBT Showcase TRAVEL AGENTS from the Midlands were welcomed to the LGBT+ Showcase in Birmingham. Guests enjoyed training and updates from supplier partners including Florida Keys & Key West, Israel, Visit Malta, South Africa and Greater Miami CVB. To round off the fun, some lucky agents won goody bags, spa products and an art piece!
Want to get in on the #TBShowcases action? We have events coming up in September in Liverpool, Oxford, Cambridge, York, Chester, Manchester and Birmingham. To confirm your place, contact [email protected] S03 TB 27 08 2021 CYPRUS_Layout 1 26/08/2021 13:31 Page 9
AUGUST 27 2021 | travelbulletin.co.uk PUZZLE BULLETIN 9
Win a £20 M&S voucher in the Su Doku prize puzzle A
Fill in all the squares in the grid so that each row, column and each of the 3 x 3 squares contains the digits 1-9. Once you have completed the puzzle, simply identify the numbers that relate to the letters, A, B, C and D then e-mail B the solution, with your name, company name, and full postal address plus phone and ABTA number if applicable to: [email protected] C Closing date for entries is Thursday, September 9. Solution and new puzzle will appear in the next issue. SUDOKU The winner for August 13 is Heidi Kemsley from Travel Counsellors D August 13 Solution: A=9 B=7 C=4 D=1
WHERE AM I? This capital city overlooks a large gulf in the Mediterranean Sea and is surrounded by hills and a coastal plain. Suburbs include historic Carthage, La Marsa and Sidi Bou Said, which is famous for its white architecture. French and Arabic are commonly spoken.
Fill in the crossword to reveal the mystery location highlighted by the green squares. Across Down 1 P&O cruise ship (5) 1 After winning gold in Tokyo, this 3 Scenic lake on the Nevada/California border (5) swimmer has now set his sights on the 5 African country, initially (3) Strictly Glitter Ball (4,5) 6 Major hotel organisation (5) 2 Island off the west coast of Scotland (5) 8 State capital of Oregon (5) 3 Australian state, initially (3) 10 National carrier of Pakistan, initially (3) 4 Helsinki-Vantaa international airport 11 Specialist tour operator for active code (3) holidaymakers (7) 7 Irish county, sounds female (5) 13 Land of the free and home of the brave (7) 9 US state bordering Canada and Lake 15 BBC magazine programme, The ___ Superior (9) Show (3) 12 The award winning Incheon international 16 Will, whose latest album is Crying on the airport serves this Asian city (5) Bathroom Floor (5) 14 Capital of Ghana (5) 19 Instrument played by Yo-Yo Ma (5) 17 Etihad and Emirates are both flag 20 London Heathrow international airport code (3) carriers of this country (3)
CROSSWORD 21 Swedish shipping line (5) 18 Glasgow international airport code (3)
22 Oranjestad is the capital (5)
Mystery Word: RIGA Where am I? - Tunis, Tunisia Tunis, - I? am Where RIGA Word: Mystery
GLA. 18 UAE, 17 ACCRA, 14 SEOUL, 12 MINNESOTA, 9 CLARE, 7 HEL, 4 TAS, 3 ARRAN, 2 PEATY, ADAM 1 Down:
ARUBA. 22 , STENA 21 LHR, 20 CELLO, 19 YOUNG, 16 ONE, 15 AMERICA, 13 NEILSON, 11 PIA, 10 SALEM, 8 ACCOR, 6 RSA, 5 TAHOE, 3 AZURA, 1 Across:
Solution: S03 TB 27 08 2021 CYPRUS_Layout 1 26/08/2021 13:31 Page 10
10 BULLETIN INTERVIEW AUGUST 27 2021 | travelbulletin.co.uk In the hot seat with...
Phil DickinsonQatar Tourism
As Qatar gears up for the World Cup next year, Phil Dickinson, Global International Markets Development, Qatar Tourism, sat down with Travel Bulletin to talk about plans to come, and how the country is positioning itself to be a tourism hub.
PLANS FOR THIS YEAR visitation numbers. This call to action for tour attractions –the plan for us The focus for us is two fold – could be to promote luxury operators. is to treble arrivals by 2030. consumer awareness and holiday package deals, sun We'll be doing a lot on social market readiness. and sand holidays, and even WORLD CUP 2022 media space with digital Firstly, we want to get out active holidays – we have a We've been preparing for advertising. there with some consumer lot to offer. Canoeing the last 6-7 years now for awareness campaigns. A through the mangroves, this. We have new road UK TRAVEL TRADE huge amount of surveys we desert safaris, quad biking, systems, new underground ENGAGEMENT conducted found that the parasailing, dune bashing, systems (metro), and have We're working closely with awareness level is not where the list kind of goes on. added an additional 100 tour operators, and this of we want it to be – a lot of We are also a huge stop over hotels to our existing course will extend to travel what we do at the moment is destination – we're perfect portfolio, to accommodate agents too. We plan to run a dispel myths people have series of fam trips down to about Qatar. From around Qatar, so that agents and the September and October, we trade can experience a will see more awareness We want to build on series of our products, when campaigns. time and rules permit. We The UK & Ireland is obviously the legacy and the also have an agent training one of our key markets, and programme which is in the we will do this through paid momentum of the World middle of being updated, marketing campaigns, media Cup... the plan for us is to our Tawash programme. and PR activities. Things have changed so In terms of market readiness, treble arrivals by 2030 dramatically, so we've had we've got a new team in “ to update this with what to Qatar who are sales leads do, what to see, where to that manage markets. They go, cuisine choices, hotels, make sure we're market for this, given our location. for the huge number of theme parks, etc. That will ready, selling the right Right now, we're looking to people coming into the launch in a month or so, and packages, making sure organise partnership country. We want to build on agents will be able to go in hotels are at the right rates, agreements with tour the legacy and the and register to get their and more. We're also talking operators – it's about really momentum of the World certification. to key tour operators in the getting the Qatar product on Cup with additional market, to increase our the shelf, so it's a bit of a inventory and more www.qatartourism.com S03 TB 27 08 2021 CYPRUS_Layout 1 26/08/2021 13:32 Page 11
CYPRUS Image Credit: Adobe Stock
Discover Aphrodite’s birthplace with SUMMER IN LARNAKA ToursByLocals
Larnaka has released its summer 2021 newsletter, revealing a TRAVELLERS CAN join local guide host of new openings and upgrades. Bambos as he guides groups through the ancient capital of LARNAKA IS spotlighting a new, wooden boat-shaped wide variety of brightly- Cyprus, Paphos, to visit the fabled range of new experiences and library to read as they coloured marine life and sea birthplace of the Greek goddess of upgrades across the region. lounge. The Community plants such as octopi, crabs, love, Aphrodite. Council has also placed 240 oysters, moray eels, grouper, Along the way, guests will visit Better beaches new sunbeds and 120 new starfish, and Posidonia some of the island’s most famous Voroklini’s coastline has umbrellas on the beach. seagrass. places and landmarks, such as the been beautified with the Kollissi Castle, the ancient city of planting of palm trees, whilst Reef reveal Finishing touches Kourion, expansive views of the a shade has been installed at Larnaka region has released The finishing flourishes have Mediterranean, and the stadium the children’s sand the name of its snorkelling been added to the ‘Larnaka where the chariots used to playground. On Yiannades reef located in the Voroklini Art Workshops compete. (Gold Fish beach), Marine Protected Area, Neighbourhood’, creating an There will also be visits to the sunbathers will soon be able ‘Dorida’. The reef is an alternative experience in temple of Apollo Hylates, where to borrow books from the underwater kingdom with a Larnaka’s charming streets. groups will have the opportunity The neighbourhood – for a revitalising swim in the comprised of two streets that crystal-clear waters. Larnaka is a city on the southern coast of Cyprus. run parallel to the Piale Bambos is able to tell the story Pasha coastal street – is of historical Cyprus and will take home to the workshops of groups on a journey through time, nine visual artists, including right up to the modern day. sculptors, ceramists and ToursByLocals offers the 10-hour painters. New informative ‘Discover Aphrodite's Birthplace’ on signs displaying a map of the this Limassol Private Tour from area have been installed, £395 per group, for up to six people allowing visitors to take a (£65 per person). The tour includes self-guided walk to visit the guiding services and private workshops and watch the transportation. Extra costs include artisans at work. food and personal expenses.
www.larnakaregion.com www.toursbylocals.com Image Credit: Adobe Stock S03 TB 27 08 2021 CYPRUS_Layout 1 26/08/2021 13:32 Page 12
12 CYPRUS AUGUST 27 2021 | travelbulletin.co.uk
Elegant Resorts offers BEACHSIDE BIBLIO Amara Hotels’ palatial paradise Biblio's Cyprus summer programme includes regional flights from AFTER ONLY completing a single Manchester, Birmingham and London Gatwick, with a triple-lock season before the Covid-19 guarantee for customer confidence. pandemic hit, Amara Cyprus is raring to go for summer 2021. The Amara is a stylistic beach hideaway, ideal for a romantic break, with infinity pools overlooking volcanic beaches and spacious sea-view rooms offering all you could need from the comfort of a five-star resort. Concealing ice baths, saunas and an ancient well unearthed during the resort's construction form a decadent spa that will leave guests feeling stress free. Dining options are equally as luxurious, with Giorgio Locateli's Italian restaurant offering a 300- Image Credit: Pexels/Pixabay bottle-strong wine cellar, or Armya by Papaioannou, with its expansive BIBLIO TRAVEL launched its newest website available from £545 per person. open-air seafood tavern. alongside its summer Cyprus programme last month, offering a 'triple-lock' protection for Grecian Park Hotel, Protaras consumer confidence. The programme spans Seven nights at the five-star Grecian Park a choice of two- to five-star options. Hotel, Protaras start from £729 per person. Accommodation is on a self-catering basis New York Plaza Hotel, Paphos with return flights, resort transfers and the This self-catering break for two at the two-star services of a Biblio representative. New York Plaza Hotel, Paphos, includes seven An 'Absolute Package' option is available, nights' accommodation, return flights, return which includes a low deposit of £49 per person, transfers from the airport and the services of 23kg luggage with 10kg hand luggage, free Image Credit: AMARA Hotels a Biblio representative. Departures start from transfers and full-time resort representatives. Elegant Resorts' package stay £375 per person. Daily departures are available to Larnaca from offers five nights in a Deluxe Manchester, Birmingham and Gatwick. Bedroom on a bed-and-breakfast Nelia Gardens, Ayia Napa Clare Tobin, UK MD of Biblio Travel, said: basis, with a 15% rate reduction, This offering includes seven nights in a pool- “We can’t wait to welcome guests to Cyprus along with economy flights, private view room at the three-star Nelia Gardens, for sunshine holidays; they’ll be in the safest transfers and UK lounge passes, Ayia Napa, on a bed-and-breakfast basis, hands while securing the best prices.” from £1,120 per person. along with return flights, transfers and an in- resort Biblio representative. Departures are www.bibliotravel.co.uk www.elegantresorts.co.uk
Visit Cyprus’ expansive wine route DESIGNED TO take wine-lovers back in time to discover the heritage of the island's most famous export, the dessert wine of Commandaria, Visit Cyprus has unveiled the 'Commandaria Wine Route'. The route ticks off 14 Commandaria villages: Limassol, Kolossi, Erimi, Monagri, Agios Georgios, Silikou, Doros, Laneia, Trimilkini, Agios Mamas, Kapileo, Zoopigi, Kalo Chorio, Agios Pavlos, Agios Konstantinos, Louvaras, Gerasa and Apsiou. There are four wineries along the way, as well as a visit to the wine press of Laneia.
www.visitcyprus.com Image Credit: Visit Cyprus S04 TB 27 08 2021 AUSTRALASIA_Layout 1 26/08/2021 13:45 Page 13
AUGUST 27 2021 | travelbulletin.co.uk CYPRUS 13
Flock to Larnaka for birdwatching
A VARIETY of birds – both migrating and indigenous – favour the region of Larnaka, making it a birdwatching haven for interested clients. Over 350 indigenous and endemic species – along with the migrating species – can be seen on the island. Thanks to its unique location on the migratory route from Europe, Asia and Africa, Cyprus is a key breeding spot that sees around 250 million birds passing through the island each autumn and spring, including bright pink flamingos in their numbers and wild fowls that frequent Larnaka Salt Adobe Stock Lake and Voroklini Lake. www.larnakaregion.com Image Credit:
Experience Elysium ROBINSON CYPRUS in Paphos The new ROBINSON CYPRUS comes with an abundance of LOCATED IN the historical heartland of ancient Paphos and a short stroll cultural and scenic highlights, offering a wide range of activities from the UNESCO protected Tombs for families, couples and solo travellers. of the Kings (dating back to 300BC), the Elysium Hotel is a five- IN A REGION that offers more than 300 days ROBINSON CYPRUS has implemented a star getaway. of sunshine a year, the new ROBINSON comprehensive safety and hygiene concept in Guests can enjoy a private CYPRUS is situated on the island’s south regards to Covid-19. The Club also offers beach, and the hotel also features coast and is only 30 minutes from Larnaca rapid antigen tests for guests before their its own private gardens, which are International Airport and 90 minutes from return journey and will do so for as long as is embellished with water features, Paphos Airport. necessary. multi-level pools, an amphitheatre The hotel is ideally located in a large bay, Bernd Mäser, managing director and and its own sandy cove. with direct sea views of the expansive spokesman of ROBINSON, commented: “After sandy beach. the last few months, everyone has had a great Active holidaymakers will get their money's desire to travel and we are therefore worth, with the wide range of sports and particularly pleased to offer our guests a activities on offer, including a variety of completely new holiday destination and treatments available at the WellFit Spa. The another option for their holidays in the form Elysium Hotel water conditions make this club an ideal spot of the ROBINSON CYPRUS.” for water sports, with options such as sailing, Prices for seven nights, full board at surfing or kitesurfing available directly ROBINSON CYPRUS, start from £685 per Image Credit: through the water sports station located on person. Return flights from London Stanstead The Elysium also offers a site. Those looking to explore the island will to Larnaca start from £195 per person with TUI. sumptuous collection of gourmet be treated to landscapes, coastal towns and eateries, which use local produce, Mediterranean cuisine. www.robinson.com including vegetables from the hotel’s garden. Lemonia Piazza, seaside Mediterraneo Tavern, Epicurean Restaurant, Ristorante Bacco and O’Shin Restaurant showcase a variety of cuisines, including Italian, Japanese, and Cypriot. The ‘Romantic Getaway for Two’ package includes a three-night stay in a Royal Garden Villa with private pool, complete with a champagne in-room breakfast, two 60-minute spa treatments, one candlelit dinner and two buffet dinners. Prices are available upon
ROBINSON CYPRUS request from the hotel.
www.elysium-hotel.com Image Credit: S04 TB 27 08 2021 AUSTRALASIA_Layout 1 26/08/2021 13:45 Page 14
14 CYPRUS AUGUST 27 2021 | travelbulletin.co.uk
Dive into Jason deCiares PAPHOS PARADISE Taylor’s Underwater Sculpture Park Olympic Holidays is offering a luxury getaway to Sofianna Resort PLANET HOLIDAYS is offering & Spa, offering clients a blend of relaxation and island adventure. various packages in the eastern coastal area of Cyprus, to visit the Jason deCiares Taylor’s Underwater Sculpture Park – ideal for snorkelling visitors as well as divers. The park is located in a protected marine area, 200 meters off Pernera beach, in 10 meters of water. Musan (Museum of Underwater Sculpture Ayia Napa), by British sculptor Jason deCaires Taylor, is an underwater sculpture gallery with 93 artworks, some representing trees designed to attract marine life and to provide food and shelter for a variety of Image Credit: Olympic Holidays sea creatures. LESS THAN two miles away from Paphos’ enhance guests’ wellbeing, offering a range of A seven-night holiday departing city centre, Sofianna Resort & Spa offers a treatments. There are three swimming pools, October 11 2021, staying at the luxury stay for visitors wanting to explore the including one indoors, and a themed splash four-star Capo Bay in Fig Tree Bay, island of Cyprus. park for kids. The kids’ club caters for children Protaras for two adults on a bed- With 172 rooms ranging through standard, from three to 11 years old, and those aged 12 and-breakfast basis, with return superior and deluxe categories, the resort is to 17 can enjoy a chill-out area for teens, which flights from Gatwick to Larnaka equipped with many modern and convenient is kitted out with computers (with internet amenities. Each room offers a small terrace or access), an activity table and a gaming room. balcony with views of the inland or the Inside the resort, there are six restaurants swimming pool. and bars, including an á la carte eatery serving The resort is nearby to the coastal Mediterranean fare for dinner, and a bar by the walkways and also has excellent transport pool for refreshing drinks throughout the day. links to explore the wider island. A five-night stay starts from £502 per A short stroll from the resort will take person, based on two people. The price visitors to the nearest beach, as well as the includes seven-nights’ all-inclusive Holidays Planet Credit: Image harbour. Holidaymakers can find a lot of accommodation in a Standard Room Inland and transfers in resort, is priced shopping opportunities here, as well as plenty View, with flights from London Gatwick from £899.50 per person. The of restaurants serving both local- and airport. The price is based on a November 4, operator also offers early booking international-inspired cuisine. 2021 departure. discounts on some hotels. The Sofianna Resort & Spa offers an Aphrodite Wellness Centre, designed to www.olympicholidays.com www.planet-holidays.co.uk
Hiking havens with Audley Travel AUDLEY TRAVEL is offering a hiking tour to Cyprus for clients looking to take an active holiday on the island. Guests will spend two nights in the Troodos mountains, with various activities such as a bee and honey workshop and a village tour to a UNESCO protected monastery. Travellers will also enjoy tours of the archaeological site of Kourion and explore the remnants of this once powerful city. A seven-night trip costs from £2,630 per person (based on two sharing) and includes flights, transfers, accommodation on a bed-and-breakfast basis and excursions. www.audleytravel.com Image Credit: Adobe Stock S04 TB 27 08 2021 AUSTRALASIA_Layout 1 26/08/2021 16:15 Page 15
AUSTRALASIA Image Credit: Adobe Stock
Heritage Expeditions spotlights new cruise GO FOR GRAMPIANS and ship offerings Grampians Peaks Trail, the natural and cultural walking NEW ZEALAND-BUILT expedition experience in Victoria, will be opening to the public next month. yacht Heritage Explorer has created new opportunities of discovery THE HOTLY anticipated around the shores of New Zealand. Grampians Peaks Trail is An example of a trip is the opening in September 2021, ‘Islands of the Hauraki Gulf’ providing a once-in-a-lifetime holiday, where guests will join 13-day hike through the Kennedy Warne as they venture Grampians mountain range, through the famed waters, islands famed for its dramatic scenery and coastlines of the Hauraki Gulf and Aboriginal heritage. Marine Park and Bay of Islands on The 160-kilometre trail, this eight-day partner voyage. located three hours west of The holiday is priced from Melbourne, will stretch the around £3,165 per person, based Image Credit: Grampians Peaks Trails length of the Grampians on a January 7, 2022 departure. National Park and feature Heritage Explorer is a 30-metre, mountain peaks, rugged four-deck vessel, and features 10 rocky outcrops, panoramas cabins across three decks, a dining and the ancient Aboriginal The trail will feature an array of tour experiences and camping options. room boasting 180-degree heritage of Gariwerd panoramas and theatre (Grampians). backcountry walking history across the region. capabilities; lounge and bar The Grampians Peaks Trail exploration. Hikers also have The new trail offers visitors a featuring a flight of regional New will feature an array of tour the option to easily manage chance to immerse Zealand wines, beers and spirits; experiences and camping hike-in campground and hut themselves in a cultural and, a well-stocked local library. options, allowing nature bookings, only in the North experience and witness the Kayaks and fishing equipment lovers and hiking enthusiasts to South direction. ancient oven mounds, are available for use during the to easily choose, access and Grampians is one of scatterings of stone left over voyage, while two tenders allow enjoy Victoria’s awe- Victoria’s most significant from tool making, a wealth of for deeper exploration with the inspiring scenery. North to Indigenous sites. Aboriginal rock art sites, and creation unforgettable wildlife synonymous South is recommended as people have maintained an stories handed down from with all Heritage Expeditions the best way to experience association with the area for one generation to the next. adventures. this incredible new trail tens of thousands of years, addition, for a more remote, leaving evidence of their www.visitgrampians.com www.heritage-expeditions.com S04 TB 27 08 2021 AUSTRALASIA_Layout 1 26/08/2021 13:45 Page 16
16 AUSTRALASIA AUGUST 27 2021 | travelbulletin.co.uk
Family fun in the GET ADVENTUROUS Cook Islands THE COOK Islands Corporation Victoria's Otway Fly Treetop Adventures has opened two new recommends a holiday to villages, making for the ultimate adventurous family day out. Rarotonga, with activity aplenty for families to enjoy. Families can experience a four wheeled drive adventure tour, hire quad bikes or buggies, learn how
Otway Fly Treetop to paddle board or scuba dive, go night diving, kitesurfing or big
Image Credit: game fishing. The island also offers opportunities to enjoy a family day of mini-golf, where guests can play a few rounds and enjoy lunch or dinner after. Scooters, cars or minivans can be hired for a reasonable amount, so that families can drive around the island’s perimeter in under an hour.
LOCATED JUST 20 minutes from the iconic fairies and dragons for the whole family to Adobe Stock Great Ocean Road, Otway Fly Treetop enjoy. Here, children will be able to discover a
Adventures allows visitors to reconnect with whimsical neighborhood of fairy homes and Image Credit: nature and be immersed within some of their magical inhabitants, set within a magical On a Saturday morning, the Australia’s finest rainforest scenery. nook in the Otway Fly Treetop Adventures Punanga Nui Markets in Avarua As well as enjoying an eco-wilderness zip trail. They will also have the chance to follow sell delicious cooked food, fresh lining adventure and the famed 25m treetop the dragon’s footsteps and discover what’s produce and fish, as well as arts, walk surrounded by unrivalled views of the landed in the dragon’s nest. crafts and souvenirs. A cultural unique flora and fauna of the region, guests An ideal day out for parents and children alike, display usually takes place on the can now explore two new mystical villages: visitors can pre-book their tickets online with main stage, where local kids ‘Troll Town’ and ‘Mermaid Brook’. family tickets costing AUS$67.50 (approximately entertain the Punanga Nui Market Crafted by the volunteers from Men’s Shed £35) for two adults and two children. visitors. Colac using recycled timber, Otway also offers its ‘Enchanted Forest’, which features www.otwayfly.com.au www.cookislands.travel
Discover New Zealand on foot with EXPLORE EXPLORE IS offering its 18-night Walking in New Zealand trip – an easy- graded trip that is suitable for all walkers. The holiday features the North Island, which combines natural beauty with a rich Maori heritage, and the South Island, which is blessed with scenery. The trip takes in Milford Sound, Mount Cook, Wanaka, Queenstown, Tasman National Park, Tongariro and Rotarua. Prices start from £4,550 per person (£5,647 including flights) including accommodation with breakfast and some additional meals, all transportation and excursions, and a local EXPLORE tour leader
Adobe Stock throughout. www.explore.co.uk Image Credit: S05 TB 27 08 2021 EGYPT_Layout 1 26/08/2021 13:51 Page 17
AUGUST 27 2021 | travelbulletin.co.uk AUSTRALASIA 17
Marriott Docklands INSIGHTS AT SEA opens in Melbourne A NEW Marriott Hotel has just Regent Seven Seas Cruises offers a whole host of cruises opened up in the Docklands, stopping across Australia and New Zealand, with port calls and Melbourne, and will be home to a land excursions galore. striking infinity-edge pool. Located on the 15th floor of the building with submerged pool beds and an adjoining cocktail bar, the 28-metre infinity-edge swimming pool has 200-degree views over Melbourne, a city that is known for its range of rooftop bars and sky- high experiences, including hot air balloon rides. The new $250million hotel is located centrally, above the District Docklands on Waterfront Way, and features 189 rooms. The five-star property also boasts a laneway café, lobby bar and a rooftop bar called ‘Sunset House’. Image Credit: Regent Seven Seas Cruise
WITH EXPANSIVE fjords and oceans, Day four brings cruisers to the art-deco Australasia makes for an ideal cruising Napier and day five visits Wellington.
destination, and is often a highlight of Regent It’s heritage galore on day six in Akaroa, Image Credit: Marriott Hotels Seven Seas Cruises' expansive world cruises. with the unique chance to spot Hector’s Adding to the impressive Two of the most thorough Australasian dolphins. culinary credentials for the city, the cruises, 'Natural Marvels & Maori Culture' and A trip to Dunedin on day seven offers one refined all-day dining venue, 'A Golden Coast & Urban Wonders', tick off the last cosmopolitan escape before the ship Archer’s, will serve elevated continent’s most popular spots. cruises the nearby fjords and Tasman sea, Australian cuisine. Nestled arriving in Burnie (Tasmania) on day 13. beneath a vaulted cellar-esque Natural Marvels & Maori Culture Guests visit Melbourne on day 14 and sail ceiling, the restaurant is This 14-night tour explores Australasia’s onwards to Sydney for a land stay. reminiscent of Melbourne’s natural world and the heritage of the Maori. This cruise starts from £10,495, based on a historic bridges and train stations. Beginning in Auckland, the Seven Seas February 2022 sailing, including return flights, Mariner ventures north to New Zealand’s Bay shore excursions, onboard Wi-Fi, unlimited www.marriott.co.uk/hotels/travel/ of Islands. A southward voyage on day three drinks, and dining at speciality restaurants. meldl-melbourne-marriott-hotel- offers a glimpse of Maori culture in Rotorua. www.rssc.com docklands/
Lions Tour launches first-chance passes for 2025 THE OFFICIAL travel company for the British & Lions Rugby Tour has launched priority access passes for the upcoming tour of Australia, set for 2025. Beyond offering guaranteed entry to the games themselves, the early access passes also include unique experiences, from pre-matched events to hand-picked accommodations for keen rugby fans to enjoy down under. Passes start from £300 per person, with the price deductible from any package options purchased.
www.lionsrugby.com/tours Image Credit: Lions Rugby S05 TB 27 08 2021 EGYPT_Layout 1 26/08/2021 13:51 Page 18
18 AUSTRALASIA AUGUST 27 2021 | travelbulletin.co.uk
Coral Expeditions HIDDEN TREASURES goes ‘Across the Top’ in 2022 Wendy Wu Tours showcases the hidden treasures of New AUSTRALIA’S SMALL ship cruise Zealand, with off-the-beaten-track experiences in Wellington, line, Coral Expeditions, has New Plymouth and a host of other cities. announced two departures ‘Across the Top’ of Australia in the new year. The itineraries will sail between Broome and Cairns in January 2022, with two voyages currently planned aboard the cruise line’s expedition ship, Coral Adventurer. Highlights of the voyage include birdwatching at Lacepede Islands and Adele Island, home to Australia’s rare seabirds, navigating the tidal rapids of Horizontal Falls aboard a Zodiac, stepping ashore to stand at the tip of Australia on Cape York, and diving with sharks and Image Credit: Adobe Stock diverse marine life at Osprey and ‘HIDDEN TREASURES of New Zealand’ is the tour, Hobbiton, the filming location from Holmes Reef. Wendy Wu Tours’ latest exploration of New Lord of the Rings. “These voyages have been Zealand. Onward to Auckland, the group stops off at inspired by guest demand... this Upon arrival, guests are let loose to enjoy the Fo Guang Shan Temple, and enjoy a Asian combined voyage brings together all Wellington has to offer. After breakfast on cooking class at Sachie’s Kitchen. From our greatest hits,” explained Jeff day two, guests head to Weta Workshop, the Auckland, the tour travels to Dunedin, with a Gillies, commercial director. studio behind the Lord of the Rings films, visit to the Peninsula to witness blue penguins before a drive to the Zealandia Ecosanctuary. coming ashore to find their nests. The tour travels north to the Tawhiti Continuing to the Fiordland National Park Museum, with lunch in the museum’s cafe and Arrowtown, guests have plenty of time to and an onward journey to their New kick back and soak in their natural Plymouth accommodation. The stay in New surroundings, then travelling on to the Plymouth includes a coastal cycle journey and Wanaka waterfront for a guided nature walk. visits to Pukeiti Gardens, Mt Taranaki and the Guests arrive in Mount Cook for an alpine Govett-Brewster Gallery. walk before the tour draws to a close in A relaxing couple of days offers guests a Christchurch.
visit to Tongariro National Park, an alpaca The tour is currently available with Image Credit: Coral Expeditions experience at Nevelea Alpacas, a mountain departure dates on February 9 and March 2, Both voyages, departing on hike, and an art deco tour of Napier. 2022, from £7,090 per person, with a £600 per January 1 and January 20, 2022, En route to Taupo, the tour takes in the person summer saving when booked before start from approximately £7,146 Huka Falls before continuing on to Hamilton September 8, 2021. per person. for a two-night stay. After visiting the Waikato Hamilton Gardens, guests visit a highlight of www.wendywutours.co.uk www.coralexpeditions.com
Brisbane’s ‘best kept secret’ – The Inchcolm BLENDING ORIGINAL art deco architecture with modern avant-garde touches, Ovolo Hotel Group has recently launched ‘The Inchcolm’, a new boutique hotel with 50 rooms in the heart of Brisbane’s city centre. An ode to the roaring twenties, the hotel offers elegant furnishings and a classic aesthetic throughout. The Inchcolm Bar offers timeless classics, as well as signature Martini Hour from 5:30pm-6:30pm daily. Heritage Suite rooms start from approximately £152 per night.
www.ovolohotels.com/ovolo/inchcolm Image Credit: Ovolo Hotels S05 TB 27 08 2021 EGYPT_Layout 1 26/08/2021 13:51 Page 19
AUGUST 27 2021 | travelbulletin.co.uk AUSTRALASIA 19
Sea All Dolphins Swim at the Port Philip Bay
SEA ALL Dolphin Swims offers the chance to encounter and swim with dolphins and seals, enjoy wildlife sightseeing tours, embark on surf lessons, and more. The company is located 30 minutes from the beginning of the Great Ocean Road, in the historic town of Queenscliff, Victoria. Sea All also offers a range of further activities for your clients wishing to blend education with adventure, including ‘South Channel Fort Tours’, ‘Shore Snorkel’, ‘Beachcombing & Coastal Revegetation’, and an ‘Introduction Dolphinswims to Scuba’ and ‘Introduction to Snorkelling’. www.dolphinswims.com.au Image Credit:
Discover Aboriginal RED, RED WINE Experiences releases Media Kit Discover some of Australia’s most innovative and exciting wineries in South Australia, with Small Batch Wine Tours, and THE ‘DISCOVER Aboriginal explore what it means to enjoy sustainable wine. Experiences’ collective, by Tourism Australia, has recently launched its Media Kit. SMALL BATCH Wine Tours, which offers Ecologi, a social enterprise with a mission to Tourism Australia's 'Discover private and small group touring in South reduce our carbon footprint. Aboriginal Experiences' is a Australia, has launched a new tour which In addition to the Ecologi partnership, collective of inspiring Aboriginal explores what it means to be sustainable in Small Batch Wine Tours will donate $50 per experiences, guided by Aboriginal wine – from vineyard management, person to the McLaren Vale Biodiversity people who share personal landscape repatriation, and biodiversity Project for each ‘Sustainability in Wine stories about their own country to enhancement. Tour’ booking. bring the landscape and their One vineyard on offer is the McLaren Vale, The tour cost starts from US$780 per culture to life. a 40-minute drive from the vineyard city of person (approximately £400). In addition, a Adelaide. The vineyard is located where the limited period discount offer of US$200 per coast meets the vines, and is seen as a leader person has been applied on this experience, if in sustainable and regenerative wine booked by October 31, 2021. production. Small Batch Wine Tours is fully The new experience includes a bio-dynamic commissionable and available for UK agents tour and tasting at organic winery Gemtree, a to book once borders reopen.
tasting at Hither & Yon – South Australia’s first All tasting fees are included in the price of Adobe Stock certified carbon neutral winery, a seasonal the tour. With a maximum of six guests on
tasting menu lunch at The Salopian Inn and tour, visitors are guaranteed an intimate day Image Credit: tastings at other small family-owned whenever they plan to visit. The media kit features a diverse sustainable wineries in the region. range of more than 185 Small Batch Wine Tours has partnered with www.smallbatchwinetours.com.au experiences, offered from 45 businesses across Australia, in both regional and urban locations. The kit also contains a large amount of inspiration and ideas that all link back to bookable Aboriginal guided product experiences throughout Australia. In a nutshell, there are 48 story ideas, 26 deep dive product features, 20 story teller features, where there will be a chance to meet some of the guides up close and personal, and nine journey
Gemtree Wines ideas around Australia.
www.tourism.australia.com/aboriginal Image Credit: S05 TB 27 08 2021 EGYPT_Layout 1 26/08/2021 13:51 Page 20
EGYPT Image Credit: Adobe Stock
Pharoahs & Pyramids CLASSIC EGYPT with Viking Cruises VIKING CRUISES' Pharaohs & Exsus Travel’s luxury-focused Classic Highlights of Egypt holiday Pyramids cruise-tour itinerary will offers an all emcompassing look into the historic region. see guests traverse the country over 12 days. Travellers begin with a three- Clients will have a chance to stay at the Four Seasons Hotel Cairo. night stay at a first-class hotel in Cairo, where they can visit iconic sites, such as the Great Pyramids of Giza, the necropolis of Sakkara and the Mosque of Muhammad Ali. Guests then fly to Luxor, where they visit the Temples of Luxor and Karnak before boarding a Viking river ship for an eight-day roundtrip cruise on the Nile River, featuring access to the tomb of Nefertari in the Valley of the Queens and the tomb of Tutankhamun in the Valley Image Credit: Exsus Travel of the Kings. YOUR CLIENTS can immerse explore Egypt’s most hotel in Cairo and spend five There will also be excursions to themselves in thousands of important temple, which days on a luxury Nile River the Temple of Khnum in Esna, the years of history on Exsus occupies five acres. There will cruise aboard the Oberoi Dendera Temple complex in Qena, Travel's luxury highlights also be an opportunity to visit Philae – a perfect way to take and a visit to a colourful Nubian holiday to Egypt. the country’s only Roman in the many historic sights. village, where guests can See the famous Pyramids amphitheatre of its kind and The nine-night Classic experience a traditional and the Sphinx of Giza and its largest Roman burial site. Highlights of Egypt holiday is elementary school. Finally, the discover the centuries-old Beginning and ending in priced from £3,690 per journey concludes with a flight secrets of the iconic boy-king Cairo, during this highlights person, including flights, back to Cairo for a final night in Tutankhamun. trip, there is the chance to transfers, luxury the ancient city. Guests will have the spend a night in Alexandria, accommodation and a Nile Fares start from £4,665 per opportunity to come face to where Cleopatra made her cruise. person. face with over 120,000 home with Marc Antony, stay artefacts in one museum, and at the stylish Four Seasons www.exsus.com www.vikingcruises.co.uk S06 TB 27 08 2021 Runners & riders_Layout 1 26/08/2021 13:59 Page 21
AUGUST 27 2021 | travelbulletin.co.uk EGYPT 21
Laid-back luxe at CRUISE THE NILE Casa Cook North Coast Egypt AmaWaterways is launching its newest river cruising itinerary: a ADULTS-ONLY LIFESTYLE brand 12-day adventure with a three night pre-cruise stay in Cairo, Casa Cook has opened a new seven-night Nile roundtrip cruise and a final night’s stay in Cairo. resort on Egypt's Mediterranean coast. The Casa Cook North Coast Egypt has welcomed guests from July 1, 2021 for an extended season until the end of October. Sitting on the edge of an expansive saltwater lagoon, the resort offers its own private beach. Guests have a choice of 38 stylish rooms, with two Beach Suites with terraces and direct beach access opening up directly onto the lagoon. Alessandro Dassi, managing director of FTC Hotels & Resorts, Image Credit: AmaWaterways the subsidiary that owns the Casa SAILING ITS inaugural voyage in September offering a Felucca ride to the Nubian Village of Cook brand, says: “The hotel 2021, AmaWaterways has unveiled an Hessa, in Aswan. Another day in Aswan ticks carries the genuine and authentic expansive 11-night river cruise with pre- and of the Unfinished Obelisk, High Dam and feel of the Casa Cook brand, with post-cruise stays in the historic capital of Cairo. Philae Temple. its own distinct personality. We The cruise is centred around authentic Heading towards Luxor once again, the look forward to welcoming local Egyptian cuisine, experiences and service, all boat calls at the Karnak Temple and the Great and international guests to enjoy a with the luxurious touches AmaWaterways is Temple of Abydos of Seti I on days 10 and 11. true lifestyle experience.” known for aboard AmaDahlia. A final day in Qena gives a final dose of Guests will have a chance to visit the ancient history at the Temple of Hathor, in Temple of Luxor and Valley of the Kings and Dendera, before the ship arrives back at Luxor Queens, as well as the classic Pyramids of on day 11 and cruisers disembark. Giza and Great Sphinx. Upon disembarking, a flight to Cairo awaits, The pre-cruise stay in Cairo ticks off the with an exclusive private tour of the Abdeen Egyptian Museum, lunch at the celebrated Presidential Palace with lunch and the Naguib Mahfoux restaurant, Citadel of Salah Hanging Church, and Ben Ezra synagogue
El-Din, Pyramids of Giza and the Great bringing the final stay in the capital to a close. Image Credit: Casa Cook Hotels Sphinx, before a flight to Luxor on day four The cruise is available to book now from Rooms start from approximately brings guests aboard AmaDahlia. £4,030 per person, based on a June 2022 £161 per night or £246 with half Travelling along the Nile, guests' first point departure date. The price includes all visits, board for a Classic Double. Beach of call will be Luxor Temple, with the Valley of accommodation, cruise, and transfers. Suites start from £263 per night, or Kings and Queens awaiting on day five. £348 with half board. On day six, ancient history continue at the For more itineraries and information, visit Temple of Horus in Edfu, with day seven www.amawaterways.co.uk www.casacook.com
Straight in at the deep end at Ras Mohammed EGYPT’S FIRST protected area, the Ras Mohammed National Park, is an expansive landscape peppered with perfect diving spots. Due to currents carrying out of the Gulf of Aqaba, the waters are home to a diverse marine life that give divers an insightful look into the area’s underwater ecosystem, which is home to tunas, barracudas, jackfish, and sharks. The area is also known for its extensive coral, featuring over 220 species in total. Dives are available from approximately £51 a day. www.egypt.travel Image Credit: Adobe Stock S06 TB 27 08 2021 Runners & riders_Layout 1 26/08/2021 14:00 Page 22
22 EGYPT AUGUST 27 2021 | travelbulletin.co.uk
Discover Egypt with Exodus The iconic Great Pyramids of Egypt. EXODUS TRAVELS is offering two separate trips to Egypt, for guests wanting to visit all the major sites and attractions
along the Nile, experiencing the history and wealth of well- Image Credit:Exodus preserved monuments and treasures.
The Nile – Premium Some of the highlights of this trip include venturing to the Great Pyramids and a journey through the Valley of the Giza. In the north they will visit the Mediterranean port city Kings. Boarding their cruise boat at Luxor, visitors will travel of Alexandria and El Alamein, the site of the famous upstream, watching local life pass by. They will also see the Second World War battle. The journey then will lead the spectacular Edfu and Kom Ombo temples along the way, guests to the world-famous attractions of Cairo, where they with opportunities to see sunsets over the Nile while will also experience bazaars and culinary delights on a food indulging in the excellent onboard facilities. This eight-night tour. Journeying south by sleeper train, the group will reach holiday is priced from £1,849 per person, including return the Nubian city of Aswan to board a Nile cruise boat and flights, bed-and-breakfast accommodation, four lunches, discover the monuments and temples on the river to Luxor. four dinners, all transport and listed activities. Multiple The 12-night trip is priced from £2,399 per person, departures are available for this trip, including November 6 including return flights, bed-and-breakfast accommodation, and December 4 in 2021 and January 8, February 5, March six lunches, five dinners, all transport and listed activities. 5 and April 9 in 2022. Multiple departures are available for the trip, including November 5 and December 3 in 2021 and February 11, Egypt: Alexandria to Aswan March 11 and April 8 in 2022. On this two-week itinerary, visitors will explore Egypt’s’ treasures such as the Pyramids and the Great Sphinx of www.exodus.co.uk
If you could have one superpower, what would it be?
Jeanette Ratcliffe Bill Coad Publisher Account Manager [email protected] [email protected] Shape shifting would be fun! Be invisible.
Mariam Ahmad Sarah Terry Editor Account Manager [email protected] [email protected] Instant teleportation! To cure covid and other deadly viruses and diseases.
Simon Eddolls Hannah Carter Sales Director Events Coordinator [email protected] [email protected] Time travel. Teleportation.
Tim Podger Ashweenee Beerjeraz Account Manager - Far East Events Assistant [email protected] [email protected] To fly! Super strength.
EVENTS: [email protected]
PRODUCTION: [email protected]
CIRCULATION: [email protected] S06 TB 27 08 2021 Runners & riders_Layout 1 26/08/2021 14:00 Page 23 S06 TB 27 08 2021 Runners & riders_Layout 1 26/08/2021 14:00 Page 24