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TB 0609 2019 Cover Wrap_Layout 1 30/08/2019 12:57 Page 1

September 6 2019 | ISSUE NO 2,121 | travelbulletin.co.uk Giving agents the edge TB 0609 2019 Cover Wrap_Layout 1 30/08/2019 12:57 Page 2 TB 0609 2019 Cover_Layout 1 03/09/2019 12:19 Page 1

September 6 2019 | ISSUE NO 2,121 | travelbulletin.co.uk Giving agents the edge

PUZZLE BULLETIN AGENT INSIGHT INDIAN OCEAN AGENT BULLETIN Puzzle it out & pick up great Which long-haul beach holiday Mix it up in the Maldives as Find yourself on a trip to prizes with packs the biggest punch? CROSSROADS makes its & other exclusive grand debut agent incentives

Master the art of selling sensational short breaks Cover pic : © Jacob Lund S01 TB 0609 2019 Start_Layout 1 04/09/2019 12:06 Page 2 S01 TB 0609 2019 Start_Layout 1 04/09/2019 12:07 Page 3

SEPTEMBER 6 2019 | travelbulletin.co.uk NEWS BULLETIN 3 THIS WEEK RISKY BUSINESS Research explores Brits’ approach to taking out travel insurance, revealing that 37% don’t take out cover for trips inside the country. 04 NEWS Updates from the travel industry to help agents sell more holidays

08 AGENT INSIGHT James from Travel Designers on selling Indian Ocean and Caribbean holidays

09 AGENT BULLETIN Incentives and training RESEARCH FROM the survey show that , Scotland, or , opportunities for agents MoneySuperMarket people are less likely to but 63% have done so for a revealed that more than a take out cover if they are trip to . third of people go on only going away overnight Anna Sant, travel holiday without any travel (52.94%), versus a holiday insurance expert at insurance, risking thousands that lasts a week or more. MoneySuperMarket, of pounds in additional bills Additionally, over a third commented: “While we all 11 should they have an of people (37%) have not hope our holidays go accident or have to cancel and would not consider without a hitch, travel PUZZLE BULLETIN Su Doku-solving sleuths can their trip for any reason. taking out travel insurance insurance is a great safety win great prizes with Jet2 MoneySuperMarket asked for a trip within the UK, net for those occasions 2,000 Brits about their while 23% haven’t, but when things do go wrong.” attitudes to travel insurance would consider it, and 15% “You should try to take out and the results show that didn’t realise you would insurance as soon as people wrongly assume they need cover while staying possible after booking your don’t need it, either because in the UK. trip, as policies can cover of the length of stay or Crossing the sea seems to the costs of unexpected 13 where they’re going. be the deciding factor for cancellations or other Brits are less likely to take many travellers as to difficulties before you leave, SHORT BREAKS How to spend 48 hours out travel insurance for whether or not they will take as well as covering missed in Tallinn staycations or trips to out travel insurance, as only or cancelled flights. Travel compared to long- around a third of people insurance can also help with haul travel. (32%) have taken out medical issues and thefts Results collected from insurance for a trip in while travelling.” 19

INDIA AND INDIAN OCEAN Published by : Printed by: Buxton Press @TravelBulletin Salute the sun in Alain Charles Publishing (Travel) Ltd Subscriptions are £125 p.a.  020 7834 6661 @TravelBulletin the Seychelles University House, 11-13 Lower Grosvenor £195 overseas Place London, SW1W 0EX ISSN: 0956-2419 www.travelbulletin.co.uk Travel_Bulletin S01 TB 0609 2019 Start_Layout 1 04/09/2019 12:07 Page 4

4 NEWS BULLETIN SEPTEMBER 6 2019 | travelbulletin.co.uk

New deals and destinations from AmaWaterways China, India and Japan added to AGENTS CAN pass on March, April, November and itinerary offers 14 nights, savings of up to £1,000 per December 2020. combining ‘Magna on the Railbookers’ brochure person on voyages in Guests booking a Mekong Danube’ and ‘Gems of RAILBOOKERS’ 2020 brochure AmaWaterways’ 2020 cruise can save £400 or £800 Southeast Europe’. includes 11 new itineraries and brochure. To mark the per person, depending on Guests on the ‘Gems of destinations, including China, India launch, the river cruise line the time of year. These Southeast Europe’ itinerary and Japan. has announced early booking cruises come with the option can add on three nights in As well as the Indian Golden savings, as well as new of three nights in Bangkok at Istanbul pre- or post-cruise, Triangle itinerary, the Golden destinations and a new ship. the start or end of the trip. while those on the ‘Colours Route of Japan, and a Shanghai, All European cruises are The promotions are of Provence’ itinerary can Beijing and Hong Kong trip, the offered with savings of available for bookings made add three nights in Nice. rail holiday booking specialist has between £400 and £1,000 per until December 31, 2019. AmaWaterways will expand added new European itineraries. person, plus free flights from The double-width its fleet with the addition of its These include: Venice a choice of six UK airports AmaMagna, which launched 24th ship arriving in July Simplon-Orient Express with and overseas transfers. The this summer, has an 2020, the 156-passenger Lake Garda and Lake Como savings vary from month to extended programme for AmaSiena. Sister ship to (pictured); The Northern Lights; month with a maximum 2020. She will sail three new AmaMora (2019), AmaLea Grand Golden Pass and £1,000 discount available for itineraries and cruise the (2018), and AmaKristina Mountain Peaks; and Berlin, departures in Lower Danube for the (2017), AmaSiena will feature Warsaw, Krakow and Vienna. first time. The ‘Magna AmaWaterways’ twin- on the Danube’ seven- balcony staterooms, a choice night cruise from of dining venues including Vilshofen to Budapest the Chef’s Table Restaurant, (or reverse), includes sundeck walking track, the new port of Spitz pool with swim-up bar and in Austria where fitness room. As part of the guests can visit an brand’s’ Wellness exclusive wine festival Programme, guests will be and take an excursion able to join group to Schonbrunn exercise classes. Palace. Another AmaSiena will sail a seven-night cruise, variety of popular itineraries, the ‘Gems of including two new seven- The brochure has been Southeast Europe’, night cruises. ‘Treasures of created to help agents select sails from Budapest the Main & Rhine’ will cruise holidays to suit the interests and to Giurgiu (or from Nuremberg to budgets of their clients, as well reverse) and is Amsterdam while ‘Vineyards as creating multi-destination already available on of the Rhine & Moselle’ will holidays and trips of different AmaCerto, but can carry guests from durations. There is also now be booked Amsterdam to Luxembourg. flexibility to tailor itineraries. with AmaMagna. Both itineraries will also be To order a brochure, visit For a longer offered by AmaDante. www.tradegate.co.uk or holiday, the new For more details, visit www.railbookers.co.uk/ ‘Grand Danube’ www.amawaterways.co.uk request-brochure

Emerald Waterways offering dazzling discounts

EMERALD WATERWAYS is offering savings of up to £1,150 per couple on European 2020 river cruises when booked before September 30. As well as the discounted rates, customers will receive a free premium drinks package and 150 euros per cabin to spend on board. The eight-day Jewels of the Rhine cruise is one of the highlights for 2020. Saling from Amsterdam to Basel, the itinerary includes a glass-top canal boat ride in Amsterdam, a guided tour of Cologne’s old town and a hiking experience in the Black Forest. For more information email [email protected] S02 TB 0609 2019 News 1_Layout 1 04/09/2019 14:47 Page 5

SEPTEMBER 6 2019 | travelbulletin.co.uk NEWS BULLETIN 5

Make Holidays Greener campaign ends this month Spook-tacular half- term breaks with ABTA IS reminding travel Taking responsibility for waste on Butlin’s and Haven businesses that its Make holiday is part of the MHG campaign. Holidays Greener (MHG) BUTLIN’S AND Haven are offering 2019 campaign ends on half-term family break offers with a September 30. Held in Halloween theme. partnership with Travelife for At Butlin’s, half-term breaks are Accommodation, each year starting at £189 per family for a MHS helps travel businesses three-night Halloween break at take steps towards making Minehead Resort based on two holidays more adults and two children sharing environmentally friendly. two-bedroom Silver room Following on from the accommodation and when arriving 2018 theme of “Say no to on October 18. plastic”, this year’s theme is MHG has engaged with To register, email Halloween activities include “Reduce, reuse and recycle”. boards which have sustainabletourism@abta. fancy dress parties, trick-or-treat The 2019 campaign has been raising awareness co.uk trails and pumpkin carving, as well shared examples of about taking responsibility Additionally, ABTA has a as a Sleeping Beauty pantomime sustainability initiatives that for waste items such as wet free infographic on reducing, and entertainment from tribute ABTA members and Travelife wipes and cigarettes; bans reusing and recycling while acts, including homages to Ed hotels are running, such as a on plastic bag use; and the on holiday available to Sheeran, Little Mix and Abba. project to reduce food waste reduction of leftover waste download. Agents can use in hotels, setting up a holiday from cultural celebrations. this as an in-store poster or clothes swap, and providing Travel businesses which share on social media. It can customers with refillable join the campaign receive a be downloaded at: water bottles with filters to support pack with tips, social www.makeholidaysgreener. reduce the need for single- media suggestions and com/industry/resources/ use plastic bottles. case studies for inspiration. infographic

Survey: Over 55 is the prime time for travelling

A SURVEY by Riviera Travel found that British was their preferred travelling companion and Meanwhile, Haven is offering holidaymakers over the age of 55 believe that 10% would like to travel alone. breaks from £149 per family sharing now is the best time for them to visit dream “People often think that, as you get older, a Standard two-bedroom caravan at destinations. The tour and river cruise your appetite for exploration declines. Our selected resorts. As well as provider interviewed 1,836 people in this age survey of British over 55s sought to prove Halloween arts and crafts, fancy group about their ideal holidays. Niagara Falls that a sense of adventure doesn’t diminish dress competitions and frightful (31%), Petra (26%) and Machu Picchu (25%) with age,” said Will Sarson, head of specialist games, water-based activities will were the top three attractions for over-55s. product at Riviera. “Free from the burdens of be available, such as water Almost three-quarters (72%) believe now is a young family and not limited by financial or confidence sessions and inflatables. the best time to travel, compared to 11% who work-related constraints, people actually find Half-term breaks with Butlin’s said that 18-34 is the ultimate age for seeing more freedom to explore in older age than and Haven run between October the sights. Meanwhile, 72% said their partner when they are young.” 18 until November 2.

ARTY AUSSIE… Reflecting the company’s Australian heritage, Scenic Luxury Cruises and Tours has secured a series of original artworks from Byron Bay artist, Mitch Gobel, to feature on board Scenic Eclipse, the company’s latest luxury vessel. Pictured here is one of the artworks, which can be seen at the entrance to the theatre on the ship. S02 TB 0609 2019 News 1_Layout 1 04/09/2019 12:10 Page 6

6 NEWS BULLETIN SEPTEMBER 6 2019 | travelbulletin.co.uk

Falling for food festivals in Lake Tahoe Milano Bergamo to boost European and Middle East services

A HIGH-FREQUENCY British Airways route between London Gatwick and Milano Bergamo airports will be extended. Earlier this month, a six-times-a-week BA service between London and Milan was launched. This will increase to a daily service from December, adding an additional 31,000 two- way seats between the two cities from now until the end of the year.

Picturesque Lake Tahoe will be attracting foodies over autumn.

THE LAKE Tahoe area, which goods will feature. Also on October 5-6, the straddles the border The Fall Ale Fest and Wing Kokanee salmon migration is between California and Cook-Off will be held at the celebrated with the Fall Fish Nevada, will play host to a Heavenly Village on Fest at the Taylor Creek Visitor series of festivals from mid- September 21 and will offer Centre. This event will feature September onwards. brews and food, a corn hole educational programmes, a Celebrating autumn, the Lake tournament (a lawn game salmon feed, stream side As well as the increased Tahoe Fall Festivals include where players attempt to programmes and Kokanee frequency to London, Milano activities with a special focus throw bags through a hole in Trail Runs with 5km,10km and Bergamo will be adding three new on food and drink. a raised platform) and a half-marathon events. Ryanair routes next month. On September 14, the poker walk. The South Lake Tahoe From October 2, the Irish farm-to-fork festival, Sample From October 5-6, Food and Wine Festival budget will fly four times a the Sierra, will be held at the Oktoberfest at Camp returns for its tenth year at week between Milan and Bijou Community Park, South Richardson will bring ethnic Harrah's and Harveys Lake Marseilles (pictured). October 28 Lake Tahoe, with more than food and desserts Tahoe, from October 25-27, will see the launch of a twice- 20 booths of paired food and complemented by authentic with dining and tasting weekly service between Milan and drinks found only in the German beers and wines. The experiences, as well as a Agadir on Morocco’s southern Sierra Nevada region. A weekend includes live music, performance by Rick Atlantic coast; and on October 30, chef’s cooking challenge, a climbing wall, a pumpkin Springfield on October 26. a twice-weekly service between live music and a festival patch, bounce house and a For further information, visit Milan and Aqaba, on Jordan’s Red marketplace of handmade bungee platform. www.tahoesouth.com Sea coast, will commence.

All aboard for impressionist art with MSC Grandiosa MSC GRANDIOSA, which is set to launch in November, will be launching an onboard fine art experience, featuring an exhibition of original impressionist art. Housed in a purpose-built installation, the Edgar Degas exhibition is the first curation of this unique collection on a cruise ship. The Danse Dessin series presents 26 studies of movement and dance, which have been exhibited in international galleries. As well as the paintings, the experience will include videos detailing Degas’ work and life. MSC Cruises plans to expand the art experiences with each new ship launch. Go to www.msccruises.co.uk S02 TB 0609 2019 News 1_Layout 1 04/09/2019 12:10 Page 7

SEPTEMBER 6 2019 | travelbulletin.co.uk NEWS BULLETIN 7

New partnership to boost accessible UK travel New EL AL routes FOLLOWING A pledge made Accessible travel is on offer at in Europe & Japan in June by the government to Malham Cove in . make the UK the most EL AL, the Israeli national accessible destination in carrier, has added Dublin, Europe by 2025, UKinbound, Düsseldorf and Tokyo to its the trade association for new routes for 2020. inbound tourism, has Nonstop flights between partnered with Revitalise, the Tel Aviv and Dublin will start charity that creates respite on May 26, 2020, and the holidays for disabled people Düsseldorf route will and carers. The groups will commence on June 1, 2020. educate UK tourism The Dublin and Düsseldorf businesses about supporting routes will operate three times disabled visitors, and the Accreditation scheme. are not just wheelchair a week on Boeing 737 aircraft. business case for doing so. Joss Croft, CEO of friendly but where possible Bookings can now be made The estimated yearly UKinbound, said: “Our tour accessible to all disabilities.” for these flights. spending power of disabled operator members tell us Chris Simmonds, CEO, Tel Aviv-Tokyo flights will people and their households that the demand for Revitalise added: “We have start on March 11, 2020, with is estimated to be worth accessible holidays is always said that the best three weekly flights on the approximately £249 billion. increasing and with the advice we can give comes airline’s new 787 Dreamliners. UKinbound members will global population living straight from our guests, they Bookings can now be made for support Revitalise’s excursion longer, the UK needs to know what real accessibility this route with a $999 round- programme, accessibility make sure that its means and tell us the truth trip economy class ticket research, and development of attractions, transport about what is being available until September 10. a new Revitalise Tourism provision and destinations done right.” S02 TB 0609 2019 News 1_Layout 1 04/09/2019 12:10 Page 8

8 NEWS BULLETIN SEPTEMBER 6 2019 | travelbulletin.co.uk

TYPICALLY, WHEN deciding on where to venture for a long-haul beach holiday, the two main areas are the Caribbean and the Indian Ocean. BASED ON data from the entry and departure cards collected from the Both offer heat, sunshine, sandy beaches, warm four main ports of entry, Guyana has recorded a 14.38% increase in waters and an array of beach resorts to choose visitors: a total of 24,899 visitors was seen for the month of June when from. As similar as these types of holidays can compared to the corresponding period for 2018, which was 21,769. If be, the differences can be vast. these current trends continue, Guyana is poised to welcome more than Let’s take the Maldives for example, the 500,000 visitors a year by 2025. perfect honeymoon destination, known for its island resorts offering private beach villas and overwater accommodation. The Maldives is the Crystal Expedition Cruises ultimate archetypal fly-and-flop location. Further south in the Indian Ocean, there is Mauritius and the Seychelles. Mauritius, with a releases 2020-2021 brochure slightly cooler climate, can provide attractively CRYSTAL EXPEDITION Cruises has released a planning guide for priced three- and four-star resorts, right through the cruise’s 2020-2021 season. Ten pages of the guide are to high-end five-star luxury, so it can easily suit most budgets. The Seychelles, made up of dedicated to the on-board experience Crystal Endeavor will offer, several islands, is the perfect choice for those including renderings of open-air public areas, a fitness centre, seeking to island-hop and for those happy to butler serviced guest suites and dining venues. pay a bit more on the outset and while they are The brochure delves into an itinerary with destination there, as all-inclusive deals are rarely available. photography highlighting the kinds of experiences and sights in Moving over to the Caribbean, one big plus over the Indian Ocean, is flight time and the store. Descriptions of Crystal Endeavor’s focused itineraries – number of direct services available from the UK, Remote Expedition, Destination Exploration and Cultural particularly Gatwick. Within seven-to-ten hours Discovery – are included as well. you can reach most of these stunning islands, Inset boxes throughout the brochure highlight select where island life is felt the moment you leave destinations in greater detail, while offering illustrative deck plans the airport. There are so many islands to choose from, and again, you can find budget-friendly of spaces and the private marina on-board the cruise ship. and budget-blowing options galore! In the 2020 season, the ship will sail expedition voyages St Lucia is one of my personal favourite through Japan and the Russian Far East; Antarctica via the Ross islands in the Caribbean. I love the laidback Sea; New Zealand and Tasmania; Australia and the Great Barrier nature of the locals, the dramatic backdrop of Reef and Borneo, Indonesia and the Philippines. lush tropical hillsides and the variation of resorts. There’s everything here from family friendly all-inclusive beach resorts, to luxury and exclusive five-star properties, through to private villas and smaller three-star bed-and-breakfasts. S03 TB 0609 2019 News 2_Layout 1 04/09/2019 12:15 Page 9

SEPTEMBER 6 2019 | travelbulletin.co.uk AGENT BULLETIN 9

AGENT TRAINING

THE SETOUCHI Learning Platform can help agents learn more about the Setouchi region in West Japan, highlighting information from each location. Each course contains details about art and culture, heritage and history, food and drink, nature and where to stay. To sign up for an introductory course and a chance to win a place on a fam trip in November, go to www.travelbulletin.co.uk/travelgym

TAKE TO THE SKIES… Members of the Co-op Travel Consortium, as well as some of the company’s main suppliers, took part in a charity skydive and raised well over £10,000 for Just a Drop, a charity that helps impoverished communities gain access to safe water solutions.

AGENT INCENTIVES AGENTS CAN discover more about Western ● THERE ARE foodie hampers up for grabs with Links Travel & Tours. Agents Australia by completing a module on Tourism need only to confirm a booking with the operator by September 30 and, Australia’s Aussie Specialist Programme. This is depending on the value of their booking, will receive one of three kinds of an online course designed to boost agent hamper delivered to their door. The incentive is available on all bookings knowledge about Western Australia, a state that for group tours and tailormade journeys. For details, go to is known for its wine regions, scenic beaches www.linkstravelsandtours.co.uk and tall tree forests. Agents who complete the module will be eligible for invitations to events ● SHEARINGS HOLIDAYS is giving agents the chance to earn a £40 from Tourism Western Australia and invitations Love2Shop voucher for every 2020 river cruise booking they make. to Tourism Western Australia fam trips. Running until September 30, the bookings can be for coach, rail or air Go to www.travelbulletin.co.uk/travelgym travel, and on any of the ships and cruise lines the operator features. To claim their vouchers, agents need to email their qualifying booking references to [email protected]

● UNFORGETTABLE GREECE is offering a travel agent and their plus one the chance to try out one of their tours for free. The prize includes an eight- day private food and wine trip, traveling through Athens, Naxos and Santorini. Agents can enter the prize draw by filling out a form and the winner will be chosen at random in the prize draw. To register, agents should visit www.unforgettablegreece.com COMPETITIONS!

NEW: Win a £50 Love2shop voucher with Via Rail

Win a four-night stay at the St Elias Resort in Cyprus!

Win a Spa Day for two and Yoga goody bag with The BodyHoliday

● THROUGHOUT SEPTEMBER, agents can earn 10 points per booking with FOR ALL COMPETITIONS VISIT Carnival Cruise Line’s latest Loyalty Rocks Club incentive. These 10 points travelbulletin.co.uk/competitions have the equivalent value of £10 and can be exchanged for a variety of prizes. To register for the Loyalty Rocks Club, agents should visit www.LoyaltyRocksClub.com S03 TB 0609 2019 News 2_Layout 1 04/09/2019 12:15 Page 10

10 NEWS BULLETIN SEPTEMBER 6 2019 | travelbulletin.co.uk

Going on a ‘journey’ with National Geographic Club Med to open all-inclusive Québec Charlevoix resort

CLUB MED has announced December 5, 2020 as the official opening date for its first Canadian resort, Québec Charlevoix. Set on the Saint Lawrence River waterfront in the mountainous region of Québec and opening for the start of the winter season in 2020, the resort is located an hour from Québec city and is ski-in ski-out. As well as the slopes guests can go ice- skating and sledding, head out on guided hikes, explore bike trails and even go whale watching.

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC addition to a list that includes multiple countries on three Journeys in conjunction 91 journeys in 54 countries. continents and range from The £99 million 4-Trident resort will with G Adventures has The trips for 2020 will expand eight to 22 days in length. feature 302 family and double rooms added eight trips to its the brand’s global reach and Each small group tour will be and 25 high-end suites. collection. The itineraries offer travellers combinable led by a chief experience Estelle Girardeau, the company’s add three new countries to itineraries that allow more officer, who will deliver managing director for UK and the product line – Ireland, time to explore a wider region. activities and experiences for Northern Europe, said: “We are Singapore and Greece. For example, the 16-day trip travellers, while also allowing delighted to be welcoming Canada to On the 2020 trip, travellers to Brazil, Argentina and Chile them free time. the Club Med family. We’re thrilled to will have the opportunity to will take travellers on a tour to “The new trips are a direct be revealing select room renderings learn about Irish folklore at a the Mendoza wine country, response to the feedback and giving guests a more intimate storytelling dinner in Dublin, Buenos Aires and Rio de travellers have been giving us look at the resort. As the global leader taste street food while on a Janeiro. In addition to these about the places they most in all-inclusive mountain resorts, with walking tour in Singapore highlights, travellers will want to explore next,” said new properties in Europe, Asia, and and explore Athens’ ancient witness the cascades of the Brian Young, G Adventures’ now North America, we are proud sites, including the Iguaçu Falls and see wildlife in managing director for EMEA. to expand our presence in this Acropolis, alongside an the wetlands of the Pantanal. To find out more about the exciting new region.” archaeologist guide. The additions, which start itineraries, go to The new resort will be available for These trips will be in from £1,599 per person, visit www.gadventures.com bookings from January 2020.

Gastronomy to ‘Thai’ for

LOCATED ON the Andaman coast in Southern Thailand, Sofitel Krabi Phokeethra is a destination for foodie families. The resort is home to the White Lotus Restaurant, serving regional delicacies from Thailand and India, with a particular focus on farm-to-table cooking using Krabi’s seasonal produce. Children are invited to try their hand at preparing Thai dishes, as the children’s club offers child-friendly cooking classes in a specially adapted kitchen for young chefs. For more information, visit www.sofitel.accorhotels.com S03 TB 0609 2019 News 2_Layout 1 04/09/2019 12:15 Page 11

SEPTEMBER 6 2019 | travelbulletin.co.uk PUZZLE BULLETIN 11

WIN A GOODY BAG EACH WEEK! A

B SUDOKU C Complete this Su Doku puzzle and then go to the competition section on travelbulletin.co.uk/competitions and submit the highlighted numbers. A... B... C... D... Closing date for entries is Thursday, September 12th. Solution and new puzzle will appear next week. D

WHERE AM I?

This Balearic island is home to the Love Island villa for 2019

Across Down 1. How many destinations do Jet2holidays currently 1. Lincoln is the state capital (8) offer the Free Resort Flight Check in at? (4) 2. Landlocked country in the Himalayas (5) 3. One of the Scilly Isles (6) 4. Capital of Latvia (4) 7. South American country (8) 5. Timothy, playing the part of Mrs Lowry's 9. DUP leader, ___ Foster (6) son, at a cinema near you (5) 10. Napoleon was once exiled on this island (4) 6. Currency of Sweden (5) 12. Popular Bali beach resort area (4) 8. Jane Austen's unfinished novel, now an ITV 14. This city is home to the famous Prado Museum (6) drama (8) 17. Desert in Southern Africa (8) 11. Doha is the capital (5) 18. Capital of The Gambia (6) 13. Canadian country singer, Shania (5) 19. Actor Sean, currently appearing in the Yorkshire 15. Major European river (5) Tea ads (4) 16. One of the Hawaiian islands (4) CROSSWORD

The Jet2Holidays Su Doku winner for Majorca - I? am Where OAHU. 16. RHINE, 15. TWAIN, 13.

August 16 is Kimberley Roberts from Midcounties QATAR, 11. SANDITON, 8. KRONA, 6. SPALL, 5. RIGA, 4. NEPAL, 2. NEBRASKA, 1. Down:

Coop in . BEAN. 19. BANJUL, 18. KALAHARI, 17. Across: 1. NINE, 3. TRESCO, 7. PARAGUAY, 9. ARLENE, 10. ELBA, 12. KUTA, 14. MADRID, MADRID, 14. KUTA, 12. ELBA, 10. ARLENE, 9. PARAGUAY, 7. TRESCO, 3. NINE, 1. Across: August 16th Solution: A=2 B=9 C=4 D=5 Solution:

For more games and prizes please sign up for emails on the jet2holidays trade site and Partners2success on Facebook… S03 TB 0609 2019 News 2_Layout 1 04/09/2019 12:15 Page 12 S04 TB 0609 2019 Short Breaks_Layout 1 04/09/2019 12:21 Page 13

SHORT BREAKS

Air Malta adds Gatwick flight for (UN)RATING VIENNA winter 2019

Help clients make up their own minds about Austria’s cultural capital FOR CLIENTS keen to travel to Malta for a dose of winter sun, Air BUILDING ON the success of enjoyment. It is intended to and given one star; the view Malta will soon be increasing the last year’s ‘Unhashtag make people sit up and think over Prater Park described as frequency of its flights from Vienna’ - which encouraged and trigger broader public “rubbish”; a coffee house Gatwick Airport. travellers to take fewer social discussion. We’re not waving with “no takeaway coffee”; The airline will be introducing a media snaps to instead a finger at the latest and wine tavern Heuriger second weekly departure from experience more – the advances in technology that Schübel-Auer, with “no October 27, which will result in a Vienna Tourist Board has are supposed to make our backrests.” Instead of relying total of 14 flights a week posed the question “So, who lives easier – online ratings on reviews from strangers, available from the airport. Adding decides what you like?” in are a great thing which we the campaign calls on to the options available to 2019 for its ‘Unrating Vienna’ ourselves use in our own travellers to explore and travellers, when combined with campaign. marketing activities as a engage with the city on their flights from Heathrow, there will The campaign looks to tourism destination. own terms. In a show of self- be the choice of four daily flights the highly topical (and However, we see confidence, a real-world to the archipelago. sometimes controversial) digitalisation as a cultural collaboration with the Moreover, the extra flight times arena of online ratings, tool that people should take Leopold Museum and will allow tourists travelling to which can have a huge advantage of, and not as an MuseumsQuartier in Vienna Malta to maximise their time on impact on a traveller’s end in itself.” saw some of the worst of its the island as departures from personal experience of a In testament to this, the (anonymous) ratings Gatwick will start from 05:55 and destination. five adverts in Vienna’s projected onto the side of return flights from Malta will leave Norbert Kettner, the tourist campaign displayed iconic the building over the course between 21:50 and 23:00. board’s managing director, city locations and of three days this summer; The destination has seen a explained: “In our Vienna experiences which had been playing on the idea that art, significant increase in its tourism campaign we take a dragged through the mud by much like travel, can divide figures, with the number of people humorous look at the notion genuinely negative ratings or opinion and speaks to each visiting the island more than that online ratings are not polarising comments from individual differently. doubling since 2010. The largest always the right path to take online users: a romantic trip For more information go to numbers of tourists come from the when it comes to looking for on the Danube which had www.unrating.vienna.info UK, with more than 280,000 relaxation and moments of been rated as “boooring” and www.vienna.info visiting in 2019 alone. S04 TB 0609 2019 Short Breaks_Layout 1 04/09/2019 12:21 Page 14

14 SHORT BREAKS SEPTEMBER 6 2019 | travelbulletin.co.uk

Putting your head in MAKING A SPLASH a Spinney Olympic medallist Jazz Carlin opens Haven water park SET IN an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Landal Darwin Forest has launched its latest accommodation tier; the Spinney. This new development of luxury woodland lodges are nestled amongst the trees on the edge of The and are designed for those who like to be surrounded by nature, with easy access to forest trails and scenic country walks. With woodland views, each of the Spinney lodges features a large veranda for outdoor dining, an outdoor hot tub with a canopy and come as one-, two- and three-bed options. A three-night break for two people starts from DOUBLE OLYMPIC silver medallist Jazz Carlin added: “The Shore Water Park is just one of £599. created a big splash at Haven’s Seashore the great developments we’ve introduced this Holiday Park in Great Yarmouth, when she summer which is giving our holidaymakers a officially opened the Shore Water Park. selection of exciting new features for them to The facility is just one of the developments discover during their holiday with us. It has the holiday brand has made in what is the bought a fresh look and feel to our Seashore park’s single largest investment in history and Holiday Park and we love the way it has offers two 11m-high flumes, a multi-lane slide transformed our pool complex.” and a water confidence toddler pool. As well as the Shore Water Park, Haven Fun water features include a giant tipping has introduced a couple of other new Landal GreenParks UK breaks bucket and an aqua play area with spray developments to its food and beverage are exclusively available to the jets and slides. It has a separate lane for offering, and a new indoor soft play area trade through sister brand those who want to do serious lane swimming, and outdoor play area. Hoseasons. Other locations and an activity pool for those who wish The developments here are part of a wider include Landal Gwel an Mor in to try activities such as Aqua Jets and plan to create a vision for Haven parks of the , Landal Sandybrook Pool Kayaking. future. An investment programme of nearly and Landal Darwin Forest both Opening the pool, Jazz Carlin said: “It’s a £100m has been utilised to trial innovative in the Peak District, Landal fabulous water park with so many different new concepts across a number of parks Kielder Waterside in things to do. Gaining confidence in water which will be reviewed with the potential for Northumberland and Landal from an early age is key and the Shore Water further roll outs in 2020 and beyond. Piperdam in Dundee, Scotland. Park has a range of different things for the For further information visit For details, go to whole family to have fun in the water.” www.bourneleisuresales.co.uk or call 0333 www.hoseasons.co.uk/agents or Nathan Race, general manager of the park, 202 5270. call 0345-4986060.

Waltz with Shearings & Andre Rieu SHEARINGS HOLIDAYS has added a new five-day break to see Andre Rieu, live in Amsterdam in January 2020. Accompanied by the 60-piece Johann Strauss Orchestra, the largest private orchestra in the world, travellers will take a coach to Amsterdam, with an overnight ferry from Hull to Rotterdam. Alongside tickets to the concert, there is free time in Amsterdam to explore the city plus a trip to Gouda, the Dutch town famous for its cheese, on the return journey. Having sold a massive 40 million CDs and DVDs and notched 30 Number One chart positions worldwide, André Rieu has created a global revival in waltz music and in staging spectacular extravaganzas. The break departs on January 9, 2020 and costs from £349 per person. Go to www.shearingsagent.com for more details. S04 TB 0609 2019 Short Breaks_Layout 1 04/09/2019 12:21 Page 15

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Art de Vivre with Champagne tourism Get into the groove IN 2015, the Champagne with Madonna hillsides, houses and cellars were designated a World FUNWAY HOLIDAYS has Heritage Site by UNESCO. put together some special Four years on, summer 2019 short break packages to has seen the Regional coincide with Madonna’s Tourism Agency of the ‘Madame X’ tour. Grand-Est region and Comité The best-selling female Champagne, the Champagne solo artist will perform for Producers and Growers three nights in Las Vegas Association, officially launch (November 7, 9 and 10) its ‘La Champagne, refined businesses in the region deluxe picnics packed with at The Colosseum, art de vivre’ tourism brand in relating to Champagne local produce can be Caesars Palace. the UK, in conjunction with a houses, hotels, restaurants, enjoyed in the heart of the The operator can offer new dedicated website. cultural sites and activities; vineyards at Champagne three nights staying at With Britain the number all of which are dedicated to de Barfontac; or fine dining Caesars Palace from £1,274 one international market, in offering enhanced enjoyed at the sophisticated per person including Gatwick buying Champagne and for experiences to visitors. Domaine les Crayères. flights (approximately ten tourism to the region, this For example, a visit to the The Champagne region of hours flight time) with launch has been devised to Château de Condé France lies east of Paris and American . Travel is help develop tourism to culminates in a tasting of is easily accessible from the based on two adults sharing, Champagne more fully. The locally produced UK by car or train. departing on November 6. brand is the first of its kind in champagne with groups To find out more, go to For more information, go to France and acts as a central also able to dine in the www.visitlachampagne.travel www.funway4agents.co.uk voice to more than historical reception rooms; to find out more. S04 TB 0609 2019 Short Breaks_Layout 1 04/09/2019 12:21 Page 16

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Manchester SHORT & SWEET staycations soar Help clients plan a last minute Titan escape & earn RABBIE’S HAS seen record sales for its new itineraries out of lifestyle vouchers too and added three new options. A new departure point for the company, tours began from Manchester in April this year performing 48% better than any of its equivalent UK tours in their first year. The top performing tour, taking almost 50% of all bookings from Manchester, was the three-day ‘, North Wales and Chester’ tour. To bolster this boom, Rabbie’s has added three one-day tours to its programme, starting at £36 per person. These will launch in November and run year-round. Bookings are now open for: ‘Windermere, Lancaster & the ’, ‘, the Peak District & ’s TITAN TRAVEL has just launched its trade only offering a five-day ‘Windsor Christmas’ Cavern’ and ‘Snowdonia, Europe and UK brochure, with a selection of escorted tour, from £979 per person. This Chester & North Wales’. short breaks featured within its range of new break includes four nights hotel Heather Reekie, the operator’s tours and a dedicated section on upcoming accommodation over Christmas, ten meals marketing and sales director, European and UK Christmas escapes. (including a hearty Christmas Day and Boxing said: “We couldn’t be happier Alongside its selection of European city Day lunch) and also two excursions. with the start the Manchester breaks, beach retreats and cultural itineraries, To celebrate the launch of its latest trade tours have made. This is the for those customers keen to holiday closer to brochure, the escorted is seventh departure point in the home there are 41 tours spanning the UK and offering £99 deposits on a select number of UK and Ireland for Rabbie’s, Ireland. This includes three new itineraries for holidays booked by September 30, along with adding to our portfolio and 2020 that discover Oxford, Manchester and trade incentives. Throughout September, providing travellers with small- South Wales. For example, the five-day agents can earn a £25 lifestyle voucher for group tours to discover hidden ‘South Wales Short Break’ starts from £779 every Europe or UK holiday booked and a £10 gems across this beautiful nation per person which includes hotel voucher for all other holidays. All vouchers of ours. We’re excited to add accommodation, eight meals, and three must be claimed by emailing the new day tours from excursions to The Royal Mint Experience, a [email protected] within Manchester to encourage visit to Tredegar House and seven days of making the booking. holidaymakers to make the Caerphilly Castle. Go to www.titanagents.co.uk or call 0800-988 most of their time in the UK.” For something festive, the operator is also 5816 to find out more. Visit www.rabbies.com

On your bike: Cycle through the trees in Flanders IT’S LONG been established that one of the best ways to explore Flanders is on two wheels, with cycling routes that can challenge the most passionate of racing enthusiasts alongside gentler paths for those who simply want to enjoy the tranquillity of the Flemish countryside. Riding hot on the trail of its ‘Cycling through Water’ concept, the province of Limburg has unveiled ‘Cycling through the Trees’; a project which, quite literally, takes its cycle network to a whole new level. Opening this summer, the new cycle path climbs gradually to a height of ten metres so that participants find themselves cycling through the treetops in Bosland, one of the largest adventure forests in Flanders. The immersive experience is accessible to all levels of experience and is well geared toward families. It can be enjoyed as a walking path and is found near cycling junction 272 in Bosland, Hechtel-Eksel. There are plans to open ‘Cycling through the Heathland’ in Hoge Kempen National Park next year. Go to www.visitlimburg.be/en or www.visitflanders.com/en S04 TB 0609 2019 Short Breaks_Layout 1 04/09/2019 12:21 Page 17 S04 TB 0609 2019 Short Breaks_Layout 1 04/09/2019 12:21 Page 18

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Jam down the slopes 48 HOURS IN TALLINN at Megève’s Jazz Festival OFF-THE-beaten-track Estonia, especially its MORE THAN 200 artists will capital Tallinn, can make for an exciting and descend on the ski resort of easily accessible city break destination for those Megève on March 26-28, seeking a weekend getaway. 2020, for the fifth edition of Agents can suggest that clients start their day the Megève International Jazz with the energetic bustle of the Baltic Station Festival. Market, known for its fresh local produce, Performances will take place versatile street food and traditional crafts. It’s in the village streets and on then just a short hop to check out perhaps the ski slopes, with the higher Tallinn’s trendiest neighbourhood, Telliskivi profile concerts held in the Creative City, emblazoned with street art and town’s bars and Jazz Club. featuring several small designer stores and Past headliners have included galleries and unique dining and drinking places. Gregory Porter, Marcus Miller While here, visitors can stop for lunch at the and Norah Jones, with the newly opened Fotografiska restaurant, which cultural hub, housed in the former submarine 2020 line-up much anticipated. serves up Instagrammable Estonian cuisine with production plant in Noblessner, will open its Set in the heart of the Mont a zero-waste mindset. Blending the old with the doors on September 20 and showcase Blanc massif, scenic Megève new, a stay at the St. Petersbourg boutique hotel contemporary art exhibitions, movie is a traditional winter sports will have clients based in the centre of the programmes and other events. resort. The traffic-free, cobbled UNESCO listed Tallinn Old Town, which can be Other standout events for the diary which medieval centre features an explored independently or via a walking tour. make for a great reason to visit include: Tallinn abundance of artisan shops, For day two, and come October, visitors may Restaurant Week, which falls on November 1-7; galleries and an array of four- wish to check out the PROTO Invention Factory. the Tallinn Christmas market held in the and five-star hotels, as well as The soon-to-open exhibition will combine VR medieval Town Hall Square from November 15 five Michelin-starred technology with historical inventions so visitors through to January 7, 2020; and Medieval Days restaurants. But Megève is can have a go themselves, such as the world’s which take place in Tallinn’s Old Town each becoming increasingly popular first car, airbike, locomotive and hot air balloon. year in July. with British holidaymakers Later in the day, they can get away from the Flights to Estonia’s capital city take seeking luxury on the slopes hustle and bustle of the city and watch the approximately 2.5 hours with direct-route without the price tag, thanks sunset at Restaurant NOA, known for offerings from easyJet, AirBaltic, Ryanair to a growing number of chic sweeping views of the sea and Tallinn skyline and WizzAir. and affordable accommodation before heading back for an evening of Go to www.visitestonia.com for more and dining options. entertainment at the new Kai Art Centre. This destination details. Visit https://megeve.com

Warner presents ‘An Evening with Alfie Boe’

WARNER LEISURE Hotels will be welcoming operatic star, Alfie Boe, to its entertainment line-up for 2020. Boe has conquered some of the world’s most prestigious operas, performed at the West End and on Broadway and been awarded an OBE for his services to music and charity. Performing some of his most celebrated songs, ‘An Evening with Alfie Boe’ is available to book now at Warner’s Cricket St Thomas property on January 24, 2020. Alongside the introduction of new faces to its 2020 entertainment line-up, Warner Leisure’s Platinum Packages offer guests the opportunity to meet with the stars. Available to book now, the Platinum Package is available on a first come first served basis and will allow 20 guests to meet Boe at an intimate gathering post/pre his evening performance. Agents can book this package via the call centre at the time of booking the break. A three-night break to see Alfie Boe perform live starts from £349 per person, which includes a saving of up to 50% when booked before October 7 and based on two adults sharing a Standard room, inclusive of the Simply Dine package. S05 TB 0609 2019 Indian Ocean_Layout 1 04/09/2019 12:28 Page 19

INDIA AND INDIAN OCEAN

Eco-warriors welcome in the AT A CROSSROADS Maldives The highly anticipated multi-island project in the Maldives THE EQUATOR Village in Gan, Addu makes its grand debut Atoll, is the latest property in the RECOGNISED AS one of the and CROSSROADS Event distance to The Marina @ Maldives to join the nationwide most comprehensive and Hall. The project will further CROSSROADS, the focus campaign to expansive tourism projects host the Maldives Discovery here is very much on the #ProtectMaldivesSeagrass. undertaken in the Maldives, Centre, to help educate personalisation of a guest’s The campaign was initially CROSSROADS Maldives will guests of all ages about the stay, even down to the launched on World Seagrass Day be welcoming its first guests surrounding wildlife and to choice of bathroom (March 1), by the Maldives from this month. inspire its conservation. amenities that can be Underwater Initiative, the marine Located a 15-minute At the heart of the handpicked and mixed at the team at Six Senses Laamu and Blue speedboat ride from Malé Emboodhoo Lagoon, the resort’s Aroma Lab. Marine Foundation. Since then, 25% International Airport, the Hard Rock Hotel Maldives Although the Maldives has of the Maldives' high-end resorts, integrated multi-island resort mixes its music-infused been traditionally seen as a more than 30 resorts, and 22 partner encompasses two distinct energy and memorabilia with honeymoon or couples organisations, including Greenpeace resorts, both of which a tropical atmosphere and destination, this new International, have joined the cause. opened on September 1– the contemporary design. development has been Seagrass is essential to the Hard Rock Hotel Maldives The property offers 178 heralded a game-change’ for Maldivian marine ecosystem as it and SAii Lagoon Maldives guestrooms including family the island nation; provides habitats, minerals and part of the Curio Collection suites, beach villas and significantly broadening the resources for marine life. It helps by Hilton. overwater villas and opportunities to attract new to maintain healthy reefs, sustainable The destination is also signature Hard Rock guest types such as families fisheries and protect beaches from abundant with retail outlets amenities including The and solo travellers and, for erosion. However, seagrass is and extensive dining choices. Sound of Your Stay music agents, a new portfolio of often deliberately removed because Set alongside 60 different programme, Rock Spa, a clients to whom they can sell. it is perceived as unpleasant and retail outlets (approximately Rock Shop selling brand For more hotel information an inconvenience. The 40% being food & beverage merchandise, Roxity Kids go to #ProtectTheSeagrass campaign options, including Café Del Club and Teen Spirit Club. www.hardrockhotelmaldives. seeks to promote the importance of Mar and a Hard Rock Café) Meanwhile, the SAii com and seagrass and, so far, has been will be various leisure and Lagoon Maldives has 198 www.saiilagoonmaldives.co successful in protecting a total of activity facilities such as guestrooms dotted across m or for more details around 655,000m2 of seagrass resorts Koimala and Maalimi’s Junior the island in the shape of the project visit across the destination. Beach Club and Camp, a beach and overwater villas. www.crossroadsmaldives. To learn more, visit Watersports & Dive Centre Located within walking com www.maldivesresilientreefs.com S05 TB 0609 2019 Indian Ocean_Layout 1 04/09/2019 12:28 Page 20

20 INDIA AND INDIAN OCEAN SEPTEMBER 6 2019 | travelbulletin.co.uk

Salute the sun in the Seychelles

FOR CLIENTS keen to pair their next wellness escape with an Indian Ocean setting, there are some soothing spa escapes to be found in the Seychelles. At MAIA Luxury Resorts, open-air pavilions set by the beach’s granite mounds provide an atmospheric setting for treatments. The resort offers ‘Qi Gong’ for guests to try; an ancient START THE DAY RIGHT…Dusit Thani Maldives has introduced a new ‘Floating Breakfast’ concept, offering a Chinese meditative practice memorable way for clients to start their day in the privacy of their own villas. Guests can choose one of two similar to yoga. options – a Floating Breakfast for two with a half-bottle of Champagne for USD $80 or a soft drinks option for At the Six Senses Zil Pasyon $60 – available via In Villa Dining at the resort’s signature two-bedroom Beach Residence, as well as at villas Hotel, guests can rise to salute and pavilions which have private pools. Go to www.dusit.com the sun and combine their 12- posture flow with the sounds of the ocean. Alternatively, VARU-ity is the spice of life holidaymakers can replace the LOCATED IN the North-West edge of Malé (including premium wines, beers and ocean waves with gong sound Atoll, the five-star VARU by Atmosphere cocktails), in-villa mini bar, use of waves, a therapeutic practice will be opening in October. snorkelling equipment and non-motorised offered at many hotels across As the fifth Maldivian resort from water sports, excursions, spa treatments, the Seychelles. For those who Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts, what makes and more. want to indulge in the spa, this resort unique is that it will offer guests The resort will feature 108 Maldivian- many resorts also incorporate an authentically Maldivian experience by style villas – 39 Beach Front Villas and 69 locally-sourced seaweed wraps incorporating aspects of local traditions and Overwater Villas – and several restaurants, into their treatment lists. culture into many different aspects of a stay including ‘Kaagé’, where guests sit on the Go to www.seychelles.travel – from the design of the villas, to the cuisine floor in traditional style and sample and service. regional Maldivian cuisine. All resort guests will stay on the all- Low season lead-in rates start at £250 inclusive VARU Plan which includes villa per person, per night. accommodation, all food and beverages Visit www.varu-atmosphere.com

What's the best piece of travel advice you've received?

Jeanette Ratcliffe Simon Eddolls Hannah Carter Publisher Sales Director Events Coordinator [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Samuel L Jackson said to avoid the snakes! Bring back a gift. You don't need that many shoes!

Georgia Lewis Matt Gill Ashweenee Beerjeraz Managing Editor - News Senior Account Manager Events Assistant [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] "If you can't carry it, don't pack it!" Always travel in comfy clothing. Look hot & take pictures.

Adam Potter Tim Podger Alice Tully Features Editor Account Manager - Far East Events Assistant [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Take the road less travelled. Never eat yellow snow! Always bring spare pants.

Mariam Ahmad Bill Coad EVENTS Staff Writer - News Account Manager [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] No plan is sometimes the best plan. Book early. PRODUCTION Vidwan Reddy Sarah Terry [email protected] Online Editorial Assistant Account Manager [email protected] [email protected] CIRCULATION Don't plan too much. Bring a copy of my passport. [email protected] S05 TB 0609 2019 Indian Ocean_Layout 1 04/09/2019 12:28 Page 21 S05 TB 0609 2019 Indian Ocean_Layout 1 04/09/2019 12:28 Page 22