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travelinc Memo 18 December 2015 1 fri 18 dec FELIZ NAVIDAD 2015 From the team Happy at Viva! Your personal magazine Your personal magazine The Latin America twice a week twice a week Issue Travel Specialists MEMOWoofmas! MEMO 871 www.topdog.co.nz Best HELEN CAMBELL Broker Tel: 09 966 2549 DDI Call us today TRAVEL Brand 0800 131 900 RECRUITMENT [email protected] [email protected] SPECIALIST 15 years in the business The Latin America & 2015 www.vivaexpeditions.com Antarctica Travel Specialists Quick uptake fills Fiji mega-famil Fiji’s 2016 mega-famil is fully subscribed with about 50 more applicants than can be catered for – proving the ongoing trade interest in the destination, says Tourism Fiji’s NZ regional director Wayne Deed. ‘We had 120 applicants for 70 spots on the six itineraries and basically that happened in a week and a half from when we started advertising.’ Deed says the week long itineraries start on 27 February and on 5 March. They come together for an amazing race and beach party / prize giving in Denarau. TMG ‘welcome’ in awards ‘We really didn’t need to do a lot of advertising or The Travel Managers Group (TMG) is likely to be involved persuading – we basically went out in the One Minute We’re with the National Travel Industry Awards (NTIA), despite Memo and put out an electronic direct mail to our Matai resigning from the Travel Agents Association of New database and had a little bit of editorial elsewhere. redefining Zealand (TAANZ). ‘This proves there is continuing interest in the new your selling experience Andrew Olsen, chief executive of TAANZ, says Travel products and experiences we are showcasing on these Managers and its brokers are still welcome to enter the itineraries.’ With the same content as the leading travel providers’ awards. The same applies to , which was Deed says the itineraries cover adventure, the Mamanuca websites and more features, we’re helping you sell more, involved in 2014 but not this year. ‘Absolutely, it’s open to Islands, cruise, the Yasawa Islands, Coral Coast, and the earn more and give your customers the right travel choices. everyone (in the industry),’ says Olsen. north of Fiji. Discover more Dave Wallace, of TMG, says that the group would Wedding show ‘definitely be open to entering the awards’ in 2016. Meantime the consumer and trade Wedding Show taking Continued on page 10 travelinc Memo 18 December 2015 2 News Commission special FLT’s online, student Tempo Holidays is giving agents a and youth travel Christian, Comery recognised special Christmas bonus, announcing an Lindy Christian, of Stella Travel increase in commission levels by 2% for The Flight Centre Travel Group (FLT) Services and David Comery, of all bookings over $3000. has announced plans to boost its presence Waipuna Hotel and Conference The commission special was launched in both the online and student and youth Centre were both recognised for yesterday and will be available for all travel sectors. their outstanding contribution to the agents across and . The company has made an offer to hospitality and tourism community this Book any new trip, package or acquire the StudentUniverse.com group week. independent travel, hotel experience and of companies (SU), a move that will fast- The AUT School of Hospitality and sightseeing, coach or river cruise across track FLT’s growth in these two key travel Tourism prize-giving awarded top Tempo destinations from now until 31 sectors. achieving students in sectors and January 2016 to earn the commission. SU has a strong technology platform courses ranging from events to catering Bookings can be made across the and is an online travel booking service and cookery, tourism and travel. Some India subcontinent, Sri Lanka and the dedicated to the student and youth sector. 30 students were recognised. Maldives, Dubai, Mediterranean, Middle However, for the first time the Stu Freeman, ProMag Publishing presents East and Europe. www.tempoholidays. university also recognised long serving the Certificate in Hospitality and Tourism com.nz prize to Monica Puyat achievers for their contributions to both the industry as a whole and 5/5... again the school and its students over the KE’s Christmas years. It was noted, for example, that Stella Travel has placed more than 40 thanks graduates from the school. Other industry personalities awarded by AUT were Judith Tabron and Simon Gault. Among the awards presented to students was a prize for high “To the wonderful people of Return to achievement in the Certificate in Paradise. We have enjoyed our stay here Hospitality and Tourism, an entry level with the exceptional service of all staff qualification. The award was sponsored who were devoted to their holidaymakers. by ProMag Publishing (publisher Nothing is too much bother. We will of the TRAVELinc Memo). Monica certainly be back.” Puyat was presented with a trophy Victoria Gavriel was presented a prize by TAANZ chief executive Andrew Olsen and a monetary sum to put towards Proudly represented in NZ by Hogan & Associates further studies. She has now been Zealand (TAANZ) presented an award Korean Air’s James Song and Mike Kim have been accepted into a Batchelor in Hospitality for academic excellence and this was spreading some festive cheer lately, popping into Management degree course. the TRAVELinc Memo office and presented a tasty presented to Victoria Gavriel by chief gift to Memo sales manager Cherie Final. The Travel Agents Association of New executive Andrew Olsen. travelinc Memo 18 December 2015 3 New Zealand Bollywood star drives interest in NZ Demand for travel information grows The choice of Bollywood star, Sidharth Malhotra’s as Tourism New Zealand’s AA Traveller has recently distributed ambassador to India is proving a success, more than three million maps and guides to driving strong interest among Indians keep up with growing demand heading into considering a New Zealand holiday. summer. Recent research in India shows ‘Almost 10,000 AA maps and free Malhotra’s visit to New Zealand in October travel and accommodation guides head has significantly boosted interest in a New out the door of AA Centres, i-SITEs and Zealand holiday. tourism operators at peak seasons around During his eight day visit 2.8 million the country every day,’ says AA Tourism people engaged with Malhotra’s via social Sidharth Malhotra on his recent Publishing general manager, Moira Penman. media, including 57,000 people engaging trip to New Zealand The addition of What’s On guides for with each of his Facebook posts. , Rotorua and Queenstown Tourism New Zealand’s general manager ‘India is an important emerging acquired earlier this year tipped total Moira Penman, AA Tourism of public relations and major events, market for New Zealand where the right distribution to more than three million. Publishing Rebecca Ingram, says ‘we saw a surge ambassador has the power to grow New titles including the New Zealand in interest from Indian travellers for profile and awareness for destination Cycle Trail Guide and a new Chinese New Zealand as a result of New Zealand New Zealand. The research conducted language New Zealand travel guide are also New at DQ co-hosting the 2015 Cricket World Cup following his visit shows that Sidharth in hot demand. Diana Mendes is this year. The appointment of a tourism Malhotra did just that. It’s excellent to see ‘Domestic travellers spent $18.1 million the new brand and ambassador to India is about maintaining that our choice was so widely endorsed in the last financial year, more than marketing manager and building on that momentum. amongst our target audience.’ international visitors. For accommodation with Destination providers and leisure activity operators, it’s Queenstown. vital Kiwis remain a target market for the Mendes has over NZ Luxury Lodge data confirms growth industry. years’ experience in Luxury holidays through New Zealand up 82%. ‘There is increasing demand for marketing, brand are on the rise, with spend on premium Most recently the UK premium team information from visitors of all types and management and Diana Mendes accommodation during winter up more leveraged TNZ’s attendance at Pure Life AA Traveller has consistently helped people communications. She has a strong than 22% year-on-year. Experiences (Pure), Marrakech 9-12 looking to explore New Zealand by giving understanding of Queenstown and the The latest figures report on annual November. them the best information ,’ says tourism industry having been based in revenue increases from the 31 members Here product training evenings were Penman. Queenstown between 2006-2011 working of Luxury Lodges of New Zealand, for held in London and Munich for UK and New Zealanders make more than 25 in marketing for local businesses including the period of 1 April – 30 September Europe based premium travel trade million domestic overnight trips per year, Millbrook, Crowne Plaza, Good Group Ltd 2015. before and after the tradeshow, training spending 68 million nights away from home and Skyline. Growth across TNZ’s core premium 60 private travel designers in total. according to the latest AA Traveller research More recently she has held senior markets was also up with the US At Pure, TNZ was joined by four New on domestic travel patterns conducted in marketing roles in her native Brazil. increasing 49% for the same period in Zealand partners who engaged with conjunction with The Fresh Information Mendes starts her new role on Monday 18 2014. The UK was up 26%, Germany up over 200 private travel designers over Company. January. 205%, Australia up 5% and Hong Kong the four day event.

Great service. Great people. CLICK HERE FLY OUT OF LGW FROM 02SEP16 – SAVE ON TAXES Great fares. travelinc Memo 18 December 2015 4 New Zealand Distinction Hotels takes over Events a major drawcard for two Kingsgates The New Zealand-owned and operated It also offers a bar and restaurant, indoor Christchurch summer Distinction Hotels Group has acquired heated swimming pool, spa, sauna and gym, Christchurch is set for a big summer, January, with hundreds of performances two more hotels located in Whangarei and as well as conference and event facilities for with major events, art exhibitions and new over 11 days and nights including cabaret Hamilton, currently trading under the up to 130 people. hospitality spots enticing both travellers and comedy shows. Kingsgate brand. Meanwhile the Distinction Hamilton and residents to experience the city. Sports fans will have international Distinction Whangarei Hotel & Hotel & Conference Centre is ideal for both The Street Art festival SPECTRUM has cricket returning to the new Hagley Oval Conference Centre will begin trading on 25 business and leisure travellers. opened for another season at the YMCA this summer, including two one day January 2016, and Distinction Hamilton Consisting of 147 hotel rooms and suites, it until April 2016. Alongside the exhibition, internationals on 26 and 28 December, Hotel & Conference Centre on 11 February offers a gym, steam rooms, three spa pools, spray painted pieces will again cover large and the Black Caps versus Australia second 2016. outdoor swimming pool, two restaurants inner city walls. test from 20 to 24 February. Centrally located overlooking the and bar. After five years, the Christchurch Art The inaugural Pioneer Mountain Bike Whangarei Quayside Town Basin, the The hotel boasts some of the largest Gallery Te Puna O Waiwhetu will re-open race starts its six day ride down the South Whangarei property has 115 air conditioned conference facilities in the Waikato area, its doors on 19 December, displaying the Island from Christchurch on 30 January. hotel rooms and suites. catering for up to 600 delegates. South Island’s largest collection of art February sees the Electric Avenue works. Music Festival in North Hagley Park on 6 The gallery has acquired 500 works February, and Anthony Harper Summer Work begins on NZICC during its closure, including the neon lit Theatre offering free entertainment in the Martin Creed piece ‘Everything is Going grounds at Riccarton House from 3 to 21 SKYCITY Entertainment Group to be Alright’, visible from Worcester February. and its construction partner Fletcher Boulevard. The hospitality scene in Christchurch Construction have announced the The World Buskers Festival will also also continues to grow, with new bars and beginning of the first phase of work make a return to the city from 14 to 24 restaurants opening regularly. on the New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC), formally kicking off the 38-month building Fresh take on ferry fares project. Wine tourers and commuters alike will reds, Waiheke handcut fudges and Te Whau The demolition project is the first phase be well serviced by Fullers’ announcement Lodge’s toasted muesli – a breakfast option of what is one of the largest construction of half hour ferries across its summer usually reserved for guests staying at the projects in downtown Auckland since timetable. $495 per night retreat. the Tower was built, also by Fletcher The half-hour sailings coincide with a new The timetable for the Waiheke crossing Construction, in 1997. SKYCITY chief executive Nigel Morrison (left) and on-board menu showing a focus on New sees services starting at Auckland from The $700 million project will create chief executive Mark Adamson Zealand sourced goods including some of 5:35am and the last late night service an estimated 1,000 jobs onsite during Once open, the NZICC and hotel will the island’s artisan products. departing Waiheke at 12:30am, with over the build plus an additional 2,000 jobs create more than 1,000 jobs across Additions to the menu include locally 400 journeys in any week coming to and in associated industries flowing on from conventions, hospitality, retail, food and produced Passage Rock pinot gris and from the island. the construction project, according to Fletcher Construction. beverage and gaming. Jet Park Merry Christmas and Best Wishes for 2016! HOTELS from ALL the teAm At jet pArk hoteL travelinc Memo 18 December 2015 5 Americas - Europe USA 2016-17 brochure An evening with Brand USA GO Holidays has released a new USA Portland, brochure for 2016-17, valid for travel Houston, It was both a Christmas thank you and an a function at Little Easy Pub, Ponsonby in between 1 April 2016 and 31 March Memphis and update when Brand USA and partners held Auckland earlier this week. 2017. Nashville. The brochure features New self drive accommodation, transfers, car rental touring options and sightseeing, as well as new have a focus on destinations including California Wine the southern Country, Portland, Houston, Dallas, cities, including Austin, San Antonio, Memphis and itineraries Nashville. departing New hotels in the brochure feature Houston that in Anaheim, Los Angeles, Huntington have been tailor Rodney Walshe, The Walshe Group; Beach, San Francisco, Seattle, US made for the Melanie Higgins, US Consulate General Ollie Philpot, Brand USA National Parks, New Orleans, New New Zealand market. York and Orlando. A new coach tour departs Chicago New sightseeing options are available with a seven night cruise down the in Anaheim, Los Angeles, Chicago, Mississippi River. Innovative extends Puno Festival deadline in Peru The Innovative Travel Co has extended After Brazil’s Rio Carnival and Bolivia’s its earlybooking savings deadline. Carnival of Oruro, Peru’s Festivity of Thomas Gentz, ; Pilar Florez, Sofia da Silva, Wild Ink; Dave Salisbury, Insight This gives clients a few more days the Virgin of the Candelaria is the third Greater Houston Convention and Visitors Bureau Vacations; Bianca Dufty, Air New Zealand to book on their choice of several largest in South America, with as many companion and solo traveller deals as 40,000 dancers and 5,000 musicians for Turkey, selected Morocco touring, taking part. Egypt, Jordan and Dubai early check-in Held every February in Puno on the guaranteed stopovers. shores of Lake Titicaca, the display of A 6.5% savings is also available on Andean traditions has its roots in the anything booked from the Ancient Spanish conquest, blending indigenous Kingdoms Holidays 2016 brochure with Aymara and Quechua traditions, minimum value of $1000pp. All must costumes and cosmology with the be booked and paid by the extended honouring of the patron saint of Puno. Gareth Williamson, Delta Air Lines; Adele Barker, Air New Zealand; Kathy Cunningham, Empire PR; deadline of December 22, 2015. World Journeys recommends including Jodie Burnard, Flight Centre David Libeau, helloworld http://www.innovativetravel.co.nz/ the festival in any Peruvian itinerary. current_specials worldjourneys.co.nz HAPPY HOLIDAYS Suggested Attractions & Family Fun. 3 Kid’s City or Qube 3 The House of Dancing Water, Taboo and Dragons Treasure 3 Giant Wave Pool & Skytop Rapids at Galaxy Macau 3 Macau Tower and the AJ Hackett Adventure Facilities 3 Open Top Bus 3 Flora Garden’s Mini-Zoo and Macao Giant Panda Pavilion 3 Macau Science Centre 3 Dreamworks Kids Attractions at Holiday Inn, Cotai Central 3 The Macau Cable Car Note: Studio City Macau, is the most recent property to Cotai. It is a highly fashionable and integrated resort that’s offers a Hollywood art deco style which includes Asia’s highest Ferris Wheel “and the Twin-Tower Hotel. Entertainment The House“ of Magic” theatre and a House of Dancing Water experiences include Batman Dark Flight”. Something for Warner Bros. motion ride all the family to enjoy. Macau has diversified and improved its offerings in recent years to provide world-class but affordable luxury hotels and resorts, designer shopping as well as many more dining and entertainment options.

There are varied shopping districts in Macau ranging from multi-brand “The House of the Dancing Water” and the “Dragon’s Treasure” shopping centres to fashion boutiques, from Chinese antique shops to at the City of Dreams.

popular daily flea markets which will surely fulfil the shoppers‘desire. At night many integrated resorts and hotels light up the night sky with Dwarfing many of the historic sites are the neon lights and array of entertainment. Just outside the Wynn Hotel there Museum, the MJ Gallery (dedicated to original possessions of the late shapes and figures of a new Macau with its is a water, fire and sound show called “Performance Lake”, whilst just Michael Jackson) at Sofitel Macau Ponte 16, and the Macau Museum, soaring 338-metre Macau Tower, home to inside you have many different entertainment choices to choose from. interactive and adventurous for travellers of all ages. the highest Bungy Jump in the world and Or visit the MGM Macau for the popular “Light and Sounds Show” and Romantic and historic Taipa Village and equally fascinating Coloane AJ Hackett recreation facilities. be entertained with live band performances and DJ’s at the property’s with its fishing village, offers green hills and valleys for trekking, a

Scattered throughout Macau are a leading Night Club “Lions Bar”. championship golf course at the Westin Hotel “The Macau Golf & Country growing number of sophisticated shopping Macau Fisherman’s Wharf and the Science Centre are also among new Club”, an internationally recognised go-kart circuit and A-Ma Cultural centres, gigantic international hotels, ritzy additions along the peninsula. Large and small, Macau’s museums are Village are also popular. So too the Giant Panda Pavilion with its two restaurants and entertainment venues many, including the Wine Museum and adjacent Grand Prix playful residents Kai Kai and Xin Xin and the zoo itself.

with colourful spectacular shows such as To order Guide Books, Maps and Itineraries, Macau Government Tourist Office New Zealand Sky Walk - Macau Tower “Taboo”, 7 Centennial Place, Campbells Bay, Auckland, 0630 T: +64 (0) 21 750944 | W: http://www.travelexpress.co.nz

for more info AnD THe LATeST SPeCiALS To mACAu Step Out, Experience Macau’s Communities viSiTmACAo.Co.nz Walking tour routes travelinc Memo 18 December 2015 7 Asia Agents explore Vietnam

Adventure World reservation support Paula McArthur, World Travellers; Milena Bruce, Wings Over the World team leader Haley Burdett recently Thai Airways; Sunita Shalivahan, Fine Travel; Abercrombie & Kent has introduced The 15 day ‘Wings Over India’ itinerary escorted a 10 day famil to Vietnam with Tania McKearney, Flight Centre; Michelle Miller, ‘Wings Over the World’, a series of luxury explores India, from the Taj Mahal to five New Zealand agents. World Travellers; Haley Burdett, Adventure World journeys that feature privately chartered holy rites beside the Ganges, bedding The famil travelled through Ho Chi Minh, and Kristine Phillimore, NZ Travel Brokers flights with a dedicated crew and no down in royal palaces-turned-luxury Hanoi, Mai Chau, Halong Bay, Hoi An and more than 16 guests. hotels, such as the Taj Lake Palace and the Mekong Delta. Three journeys have been released, the grand Rambagh Palace. Burdett’s highlight of the trip was getting the first of which is the ‘Wings Over There’s a private sunset boat cruise off the beaten track, visiting Mai Chau and Indochina’ itinerary which takes in the on Udaipur’s Lake Pichola, a wilderness only bumping into two other tourists. sights and sounds of Southeast Asia, adventure in search of the Royal Bengal ‘Staying at the Sol Bungalows in Mai from sailing Halong Bay to exploring Ho tiger, a chef’s table experience in Panna Chau was incredible. It’s about a four hour Chi Minh City, Laos and Bangkok. National Park and the exotic carvings of drive from Hanoi and I could have easily A visit to the Buddhist temples Khajuraho. spent a week there. On our first day we of Luang Prabang is a feature plus Limited to 16 guests, the tour is priced were taken off on a walk through the village Vietnam’s Cu Chi Tunnels and the chance from US$28,995 per person. Tour dates and rice fields which was such a beautiful to ‘Ride Like a Local’ by cyclo through are 5 – 19 December 2016. experience as we only bumped into two Hanoi and afloat in Siem Reap. The third journey, Wings Over China other travellers in two hours.’ car and driver, some internal flights and The 16 day tour is limited to 14 guests takes in the Great Wall, Shanghai, Guilin, Adventure World is offering a 14 day more. and is priced from US$29,995 per Xian, Tiananmen Sqaure and others. Vietnam journey from $4,119pp. For more information visit http://www. person. Tour dates are 7 – 22 November Priced from US$27,995 per person, the Price includes all accommodation, adventureworld.co.nz/vietnam/classic- 2016. tour dates are 20 April – May 2017. activities, many meals, sightseeing, private vietnam/

For the latest inFormation visit macautourism.gov.mo

To order Guide Books, Maps and Itineraries, Macau Government Tourist Office New Zealand 7 Centennial Place, Campbells Bay, Auckland, 0630 T: +64 (0) 21 750944 | travelexpress.co.nz

Step Out, Experience Macau’s Communities Walking tour routes travelinc Memo 18 December 2015 8 Airlines KLM new services NZ bans Delta and KLM codeshare In summer 2016 KLM Royal Dutch Airlines will expand its medium-haul hoverboards with Jet Airways network with scheduled services to five new destinations: Southampton, Inverness, Delta Air Lines and KLM Royal Amritsar in India; Dhaka, Bangladesh; Dresden, Genoa and Valencia. Dutch Airlines is launching a , Nepal; and Colombo, Sri Customers can now choose 76 European codeshare agreement with India’s Lanka. destinations that KLM operates directly Jet Airways, that is set to bring new The Delta and KLM codeshare from Amsterdam. travel options for customers flying on these Jet Airways routes will In total KLM will add up to 700,000 seats from Europe and the United States via provide customers with co-ordinated (5% growth) to European destinations next Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to India customer service, a single ticket and summer. and beyond. through-check in of bags to their final Effective 27 March 2016 and subject destinations. to government approvals, Delta and Delta SkyMiles and KLM Flying EK to mainland China KLM customers flying from Europe Blue members will be eligible to earn and the United States to Amsterdam’s and redeem frequent flyer miles on Kiwi passengers travelling to mainland Schiphol Airport will be able to codeshare routes operated by Jet. China will have greater access to the country Air New Zealand has joined carriers connect onto Jet Airways’ new daily In addition, Jet Airways will place its following an announcement from Emirates from around the world to ban ‘small flights to New Delhi and Mumbai, code on flights between Amsterdam that it will expand its services to China vehicles powered by lithium batteries’, with onward destinations that include and 11 destinations in the United with four weekly flights to Yinchuan and also known a hoverboards. Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, States and Canada operated by Delta Zhengzhou using a Boeing 777-200LR The vehicles can’t be carried as cabin Ahmedabad, Kochi, Goa, Kolkata and and KLM. aircraft from 3 May 2016. baggage, checked baggage or cargo. travelinc Memo 18 December 2015 9 Airlines Strong November for ZQN A Virgin Atlantic Christmas Queenstown Airport has released its Marathon and the Rolling Stones concert monthly passenger travel report for (Auckland). A continued push of its premium plans in New Zealand next year. November 2015, which shows a record International capacity increased 47% and economy cabin, emphasis on the code VS held a Christmas function at the performance. domestic capacity was up 21% compared to share arrangements with Air New Northern Club in Auckland on Wednesday The total number of passengers last November. Zealand (including an ‘all 787’ route over night and took the opportunity to re- flying in and out of Queenstown International passenger numbers were Shanghai), and a focus on destination introduce Shanghai based commercial Airport increased 21.9% to 132,589 in up 46.5%, with particularly strong growth London are all part of Virgin Atlantic’s manager Janine Walsh to the trade. November with double digit domestic on the and Melbourne routes. and international growth, boosted by Interestingly, international arrivals the Queenstown Marathon and major spiked this November - up 61% compared concerts in Auckland (Fleetwood Mac) to November 2014. and Wellington (Elton John). Domestic passenger growth of 15.4% This was a large increase on the back reflected an increase in capacity and of a 17.3% increase last November, passenger volumes, particularly on the which was boosted by the Queenstown Auckland-Queenstown route. Pauline Gooding, Flight Centre; James Suia Drodrolagi, Paul Smith, Vaile, World Aviation; Jennifer Staples, both First Travel Group; Greg Steven Wright, both Flight Centre Chambers, STA; Allen Bell, GTN NZ touches down in Texas Air New Zealand’s inaugural flight between Auckland and Houston, Texas touched down on Wednesday morning. Passengers onboard, including Minister of Economic Development Steven Joyce and Janine Walsh, Virgin Atlantic; Kelly Alan Wilcock, Virgin Atlantic; Julie US Ambassador to New Zealand Showler, Accent on Travel; Vicki Lewisham, Ski Travel; David O’Brien, Mark Gilbert, were welcomed to Bollen, Incentive Motivation Ltd Destinations Travel Management Houston with a performance on the tarmac by a kapa haka group made up of Air New Zealand staff. Air New Zealand chief executive officer Christopher Luxon says service to Buenos Aires and celebrated the the operational launch of the airline’s new launch of its alliance with Air China with an Houston service, its fifth to North America, inaugural Auckland – Beijing service – and is a great way to end 2015. last month announced a new seasonal service Kirsten Pollock, Trina Smith, both The arrival into Houston rounds out a to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Louise Bell, Fortis Travel; Sharon Lacassie, Atlas Travel; Mandy Nicod; Fortis busy month for the airline which has also See who we spotted on arrival at Buenos Nicki Moros, Nicky Keay, all Atlas Travel Travel; Kim Scarlett, Atlas Travel operated its first scheduled South American Aires this week on page 14. Over 120 European destinations ... now that’s Wunderbar! travelinc Memo 18 December 2015 10 Pacific New Zealand, Celebratory breakfast say hello to your nearest neighbour package at Sofitel Fiji New Caledonia! Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa is Sofitel’s 10th anniversary package celebrating 10 years of operation includes overnight accommodation, with a 10 year Breakfast Anniversary priced from $300 per room per Become a New Caledonia specialist today and win Package for guests past and present night (for two people) in a superior fantastic prizes including a seat on a famil. to reminisce and celebrate the Oceanside room. The package is Log onto www.learnnewcal.co.nz now! resort’s history in style. valid for bookings and stays until 29 With breakfast being a long- February 2016 with booking code standing incentive for hotel booking SFRS10Y. Bonus extras for all guests conversions, Sofitel Fiji Resort & staying on this deal include: Spa says that the ‘full’ breakfast of • Champagne breakfast for up to choice for hotel guests continues two adults daily; to be traditional bacon and eggs, • Complimentary buffet breakfast with 4.3 million eggs, 84,501 kg and dinner for up to two children of cooked bacon and 371,312 litres at Lagoon restaurant with dining of milk served at the resort for adults; breakfast from pre-opening to date. • 30% off spa treatments in So SPA for adults and 10% discount for kids; • Complimentary house cocktail in Quick uptake fills Breeze Bar; • 20% off Sofitel Waterpark entry; Fiji mega-famil • 20% off jet ski hire (15 or 30 Continued from page 1 minutes); • Free kids club for up to 2 place at Shangri-La’s Fijian children (between 3-12 years old). Resort on the Coral Coast, [email protected] 19 and 20 March, is gaining momentum in the New Zealand market. ‘We will be taking a group of Dive break niche wedding agents up for that,’ says Deed. ‘There has also Buccaneer Adventures Niue been interest from consumers Dive has closed its doors for and some New Zealand retailers Christmas and New Year. are working on packages so It will be open again on 4 their customer groups can January for all activities. attend the show.’ travelinc Memo 18 December 2015 11 Cruising Tahitian Affair with Island Escape From 17 December 2015 to 31 March InterContinental or similar, transfer to Koningsdam countdown 2016, Island Escape’s new Tahitian cruise port, return flight from Bora Bora to Holland America Line has Affair cruises will include the following Papeete. debuted its second Countdown packages: These packages are included in the gross to Koningsdam video on its • Seven night cruise - arrival transfer Island Escape cruise fares. If agents wish website with details about the in Papeete, one night standard room to package themselves there will be a ship’s inaugural season Europe at InterContinental or similar, transfer credit (saving) of $750.00 per person that and Caribbean itineraries. The to Papeete airport and return domestic will come off the gross fare. video series was created to share flights to and from Bora Bora. International airfares are additional and product and construction updates • Ten night cruise - arrival transfer in to be booked by travel agent. before ms Koningsdam’s delivery Papeete, one night standard room at in April 2016. Hosted by Jonathan Rogers, Koningsdam’s cruise director, the New year’s in Antarctica second video, Countdown to Koningsdam HAL’s second Countdown to Koningsdam The Ultimate Antarctica Amongst and southern elephant seal haul outs, video has been released Episode 2, features Holland America Emperors & Kings itinerary is an 11 night viewing and photographing the king Line’s vice president deployment and Koningsdam details, and these voyage from One Ocean Expeditions penguins, which range from 18 to 37 tour marketing, Linda Springmann short videos are a great way for us which lets guests bring in the new year inches in height, trying to spot the talking about the ship’s cruises in the to communicate the latest updates with the penguins. emperor penguin and watching humpback Mediterranean, northern Europe and and provide a glimpse into the ship’s Highlights for passengers include whales. Caribbean. progress,’ says Orlando Ashford, Holland visiting well-established Adelie, Prices start from US$10,595 per person ‘Fans keep asking for more America Line’s president. chinstrap and gentoo penguin rookeries including flights and more.

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... a caring team of professionals travelinc Memo 18 December 2015 12 Cruising - Australia RCI showcases the tallest slide at sea

The Ultimate Abyss, the tallest slide on the high Abyss water slide seas, which will be on-board Harmony will feature on of the Seas when she debuts in May RCI’s Harmony of 2016. the Seas More than 150 feet above sea level, overlooking the AquaTheater at the aft of the ship, the pair of side by side slides will release passengers into a 100 foot drop. Princess introduces new luxury beds Princess Cruises has unveiled its new Princess luxury bed, designed to deliver the ultimate night of sleep at sea. The cruise line will roll out more than 44,000 of the new Myrmell appointed P&O beds to every stateroom across its fleet by the end of 2018 Royal Caribbean International has following collaboration with Cruises president revealed the first look of The Ultimate sleep scientists. Sture Myrmell has been appointed president P&O Cruises and Ann Sherry will move to executive chairman Carnival Australia FCm wins NSW Government P&O Cruises Australia has driving strategy for the region’s appointed a full time president, brands, will become Carnival Sture Myrmell, who is currently Australia’s executive chairman. travel contract senior vice president P&O Cruises. She will continue to have FCm Travel Solutions has been following a tender conducted by the Myrmell will take responsibility strategic oversight across awarded the New South Wales Department of Finance, Services and for managing the brand’s the seven cruise lines that Government travel management Innovation. operations, effective January 1, operate in this region under contract. The contract extends to NSW 2016. Carnival Australia’s umbrella, The business, which is Flight Government departments, members Carnival Australia CEO Ann coordinating direction, Centre Travel Group’s (FLT’s) global of the NSW parliament and other Sherry, who has been leading the management and advocacy on corporate travel management brand eligible entities and will see FCm day-to-day activities of P&O Cruises major issues. has been awarded a three year contract manage the account from early next for the past eight years as well as plus two additional one year options, calendar year. Become an expert in happiness travelinc Memo 18 December 2015 13 New Zealand (The banning of) Smoking in bars had finding enough trained staff, and I been a vigorous discussion. Gaming think now we are making progress.’ always seems to have been on the Robertson says he is not retiring, but Robertson departs with wish list agenda. Food safety had taken eight to plans to undertake some governance by Kathy Ombler nine years to get through Parliament roles and use his advocacy skills with Outgoing Hospitality New Zealand Speaking on behalf of MPs, Police and as for employment, you win some, contract work. Meanwhile Hospitality chief executive, Bruce Robertson is and Immigration Minister, Michael you lose some, he said. New Zealand is currently undergoing leaving with a wish list; one that the Woodhouse, said Robertson had spent ‘One thing I have enjoyed most has a restructure and new appointments, government will ‘have the courage’ so much time lobbying at Parliament been industry training. One of the including the role of chief executive, are to sort out the Holidays Act and some security staff thought he worked biggest challenges for the sector is expected early in the New Year. public holiday trading, and two in the building. that government will recognise the ‘During the Alcohol Reform Bill 2010, strengths and different needs of Small I well remember his clear articulation to Medium Enterprises (SMEs). on the industry’s view. On behalf of Speaking at his farewell, Robertson all New Zealand MPs from a long way said when it came to trading hours back, thank you for what you have done and the Holidays Act, government was and for the open and honest way you still stuck in the nine to five, five day have engaged with us.’ a week mentality. ‘We (also) need to Immigration New Zealand deputy convince governments that SMEs are chief executive, Nigel Bickle, said different from major corporations,’ he Robertson had been a passionate added. ‘If we could grow SMEs by even and ‘bloody effective’ advocate and five percent, just think what that will lobbyist for the tourism and hospitality Peter Morrison, The Classic Villa and Christchurch Sara Tucker, Lion; Marty Fuller, Trevinos Bar & do for the economy.’ industry. ‘The more people we can work Branch President; Bruce Robertson, HNZ; Marty Restaurant, Christchurch; Graham Hawkes, NZ On the positive, he says the extended with like you, the better the outcomes.’ Fuller, Trevinos Bar & Restaurant, Christchurch. Chef’s Association president. licensing hours’ legislation, passed for HNZ member and former board the Rugby World Cup, was a watershed member, Marty Fuller, said Robertson moment for the government. ‘It proved had transformed an outdated trade that New Zealanders can be trusted association to the strong, vibrant and and are responsible, that they don’t financially secure organisation of today. need so much regulation of their Under his stewardship, HNZ had behaviour. I think the lightbulb went evolved from a membership of 700 on.’ predominantly hotel and bar owners to Those attending Robertson’s farewell 4500 members representing all sectors included cabinet ministers, MPs, of hospitality. In a potted history of his heads of government departments tenure highlights, Robertson said one and a host of tourism and industry of the greatest achievements related to leaders, marking a huge measure of liquor licensing reform, which reduced huge respect for Robertson, who is the legal drinking age to 18, and the Nigel Bickle, deputy chief exectutive Immigration Bruce Robertson, Hospitality NZ; Hon leaving after a 21-year tenure with the development of the HNZ 18+ identity NZ and Bruce Robertson, HNZ , Minister for hospitality association. card, which still endured today. Immigration and Minister for Police

CALLCALL NOW NOW Culinary tour of Vietnam or Thailand. Call Exotic Holidays 05080508 396 396 842 842 www.exoticholidays.co.nz [email protected] [email protected] travelinc Memo 18 December 2015 14 News Record number of Kiwis travelling in Who was Sheraton launches ‘Delight my Delay’ spotted in In time for the holiday rush, Sheraton line at a store or facing delays at the festive season Hotels and Resorts is putting its own airport – can follow and tweet at @ Buenos Aires? spin on ‘the waiting game’, giving sheratonhotels with their travel delay New statistics released by Flight consumers the chance to turn frustrating and #delightdelaysweeps for the chance Centre NZ show that more Kiwis delays on their holidays into delights. to receive a direct message featuring a than ever are gearing up to travel this The Delight my Delay campaign unique code that unlocks a prize from festive season. lets consumers convert travel delays the Sheraton Delight my Delay site. Recent figures from the travel into opportunities to win prizes With prizes ranging from Sheraton retailer show that bookings over and is active now and throughout resort getaways to gadgets and travel the Christmas period are up 17% on December and January at sheraton. gear, each winner will receive twice the 2014. com/delightmydelay. Select consumers prize to give to a friend, family member The number travelling on who are stuck in the craze of the or fellow traveler. Christmas Eve is up almost 25%. holiday frenzy – whether it’s waiting ‘With travel more affordable and to find a cab, spending extra time in accessible than ever before, Kiwis Trafalgar’s are making the most of it. Many are Flight Centre’s Xmas visiting relatives or returning home XmasYour personal magazine gift and a lot have Yourtaken personal the magazine opportunity twice a week MEMO to have a vacation andtwice catch a week MEMO a week in the sun,’ says Sue Matson, Flight To recognise the season of Centre NZ general manager. giving, Trafalgar is building a new , Sydney and Melbourne school in rural China. Together Fresh off Air New Zealand’s first direct flight are where most Flight Centre NZ to Buenos Aires Barry Wallace, Nemonic with partners, Free the Children, customers will be travelling to this Concepts and Kim Herd, Venture Travel and TrafalgarYour personal magazine has built two schools in Your personal magazine Events ran in to All Black legend Richie twice a week holiday season, followedtwice a week by the South Kenya and Ecuador in 2015. McCaw, who happens to be Air New MEMO Pacific, London and Thailand.MEMO ‘At Trafalgar, we try to invest in Zealand’s official ambassador Flight Centre’s marketing team the communities we visit through gets in the Christmas spirit real support at a grassroots level; PEARL’s PEARLER from supporting local business to Flight Centre hosted its annual staff workingYour personal magazinealongside not-for-profit Your personal magazine You know your life has changed for ever conference at The Langham recently, twice a week organisations,’ says Trafalgar NZ twice a week with more than 800 flighties from MEMO MEMO when all your house plants are alive and you general manager Scott Cleaver. around the country attending. can’t smoke any of them, and a $4 bottle of Search for #Trafalgarcares or wine is now undrinkable. Organised by cievents, attendees were [email protected] visit www.trafalgar.com to see Editor. Marcus Logan, Subeditor: Stu Freeman entertained by Flight Centre’s senior Trafalgar’s latest sustainable Ruth Scott and Aleisha Moore: Journalists Ph: + 64 9 818 7807 Mob + 0274 842 863 leadership team, Topdeck Travel, Air Trish Freeman and Gary Covich: Graphics www.travelinc.co.nz tourism initiatives. Copyright: No part of this publication may be copied, New Zealand and guest speaker Mike PO Box 60154 Titirangi reproduced or duplicated in whole or in part, without the Allsop. Auckland 0642 prior written approval of the publisher Free drinks, free meals, free headsets, 23kg baggage

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