Creating new opportunities for clients by promoting

Transcription

TB2905 2015 Cover_TB Front Cover.qxd 27/05/2015 11:33 Page 1
May 29 2015 | ISSUE NO 1,921 | www.travelbulletin.co.uk
Italy
Creating new
opportunities for clients by
promoting the ‘Slow
Travel’ concept
this week
9
agent bulletin
four-night Haven break offer for
travel agents for £59
14
digital dialogue
how technology plays an
important role in inspiring travellers
23
winter sports
operators add new
destinations & activities for
2015/16
25
india & indian ocean
Mauritius launches low season
initiative to drive family bookings
S01 TB2905 2015 Start_Layout 1 27/05/2015 10:56 Page 2
JAMAICA SAINT LUCIA ANTIGUA BAHAMAS GRENADA BARBADOS
£1,499PP
EL
7 NTS FROM:
ANTIGUA
EV
SANDALS BARBADOS
BL
CLU
HOT N
PRICEEW
BARBADOS
SANDALS GRANDE ANTIGUA RESORT & SPA
7 NTS FROM:
WAS: £3,144pp
SAVING: £3,290 per couple!
TRAVEL DATES: 16 Sep - 13 Oct ‘15. Other dates available.
£1,459PP
WAS: £3,657pp
SAVING: £4,396 per couple!
TRAVEL DATES: 27 Aug - 22 Oct ‘15. Other dates available.
TO BOOK THE WORLD’S LEADING ALL-INCLUSIVE RESORTS
CALL 0844 557 0624 | VISIT SANDALS4AGENTS.CO.UK
Book by Tuesday 9th June 2015. Savings are up to 50% and vary on selected resorts, room types and travel dates in 2015 & 2016. 50% discount is valid on package and accommodation only bookings. Minimum stay:
5 nights. Not combinable with any other offer or promocode offer except the free wedding offer. Sandals Select points and free nights cannot be used in conjunction with this offer, but can be earned. Offer subject to
availability. Terms and conditions and blackout dates apply.
Travel agents must quote FUN2FOR1 at the point of booking to take advantage of any offer included within the 2 for 1 sale. Capped commission of 5% applies to all 2 for 1 bookings. 2 for 1 bookings are not eligible for
MoneyCard rewards.
Pricing shown is per person based on two people sharing a room/suite for 7 nights on selected dates (as stated) and includes all savings, return ﬂights with British Airways, Virgin Atlantic or Thomas Cook Airlines
in economy class, all meals, land and water sports, transfers, tips and taxes. Room types vary depending on resort and will be advised at time of booking. Prices are subject to availability and are correct at time of
distribution. ABTA: V000X / ATOL: 2853 / IATA: 91273442.
newsbulletin
This Week
news
3
kids rate time with the
family as top priority for
holidays
8
9
11
12
Cover Pictures: Main - Shutterstock: JeniFoto
Inset - Balklan Holidays
14
15
17
18
19
COCKTAIL PARTY…
If Only…took a group of agents on a fam trip to Dubai a couple of weeks ago. Pictured taking a wellearned rest after a golf session at the Montgomerie Golf Club are, from the left: Neil Sealy, If Only…;
Bernard Kamau, The Address Hotels and Resorts; Veronica Jackson, Thomas Cook Milton Keynes
Sunset Walk; Louise Dempsey, Thomas Cook Hornchurch; Emma Beveridge, Thomas Cook Bromley;
Helen Nemeth, Thomas Cook Billericay; and Laura Forte, Thomas Cook Wimbledon.
notes from normanton
Sandy returns from a
Halkidiki fam trip
agent bulletin
agents are offered a fournight break with Haven from
£59
puzzle bulletin
play Su Doku for your
chance to win a £50 M&S
voucher
bulletin briefing
a round-up of news from
Advantage’s overseas
conference in Bodrum
digital dialogue
how technology plays an
important role in inspiring
travellers
air travel
survey finds higher level of
interest for in-flight connectivity in Europe
event bulletin
pictures from Travel
Bulletin’s Airline Showcase
event in Manchester
personality bulletin
the UK account manager of
Travel & Tourism Marketing
is in the hot seat
italy
how to create new opportunities for clients by encouraging ‘Slow Travel’
www.travelbulletin.co.uk
Post Office Travel Money Research finds Balearic Islands
rated top value as families put resort costs above all else
LOW RESORT costs decide the holiday
destination for nine-in-ten parents,
according to new Post Office Travel Money
research.
More than half of those surveyed for the
report revealed that they had exceeded
their resort spending budget by an average
of 30% on their last holiday and, based on
their previous experiences, Spain’s Balearic
Islands topped a list of 17 popular
destinations rated good value for a family
holiday.
In the survey of more than 1,000 parents,
when those who had previously visited
destinations abroad were asked which they
rated good value, it was a clean sweep for
Spanish resorts. A total of 88% named the
Balearic Islands, while 82% said the Canary
Islands were good value and 81% gave the
thumbs up to the Spanish mainland.
Recent research for the Post Office Holiday
Costs Barometer shows that families
planning return visits to the Balearics will
enjoy even better value because prices have
dropped by around 16% since last year in
Mallorca and Menorca.
Although there was a sizeable gap
between the Spanish resorts and other
destinations, Greece, the US, Bulgaria,
Thailand and Portugal also earned good
value ratings from seven-in-ten or more of
the parents surveyed.
However, Turkey and Croatia both lost
ground on their positions a year ago, with
84% of parents who had visited Turkey
before rated it good value at that time but
this has now fallen to 67%. Similarly, 68%
rated Croatia good value in 2014 but that
has since dropped to 61%, one of the lowest
ratings in this year’s survey.
Value for money may be a key factor in
deciding the destination for a family holiday
abroad, but the survey found that
overspending is still widespread once
families reach their holiday hotspot. On
their last trip abroad parents budgeted an
average of £715 to pay for meals and other
resort costs, a 12.6% year-on-year rise, but
only 25% stuck to this – a 5% point fall on
the previous year. Instead more than half of
families bust their budget by an average of
£219, a 30% overspend.
Andrew Brown of Post Office Travel
Money said: “Cost is bound to be the major
factor for most parents planning a family
holiday abroad and it is encouraging to see
the high level of awareness about the
importance of factoring in resort prices to
calculate the overall budget. The good news
for holidaymakers is that prices have
tumbled in many European destinations
thanks to a combination of improved
exchange rates and lower prices in resorts.
Families can check this year’s prices for
destinations they are considering on our
website.”
For details see
www.postoffice.co.uk/holidaycosts2015
May 29 2015
3
newsbulletin
A swimming pool & time with the family are kids' top priorities for holidays
RESEARCH HAS revealed that a
swimming pool, spending time with
their family and not being at school are
what British kids crave from a holiday.
Whilst parents spend hours searching
for the ultimate family holiday package,
offering the perfect combination of
price, location and hotel star rating,
the kids couldn’t care less.
The survey of 1,000 of six-12 year
olds, conducted by Monarch, revealed
that not being at school came out top
for more than a third of children
(34%), followed by spending lots of
time with the family (27%).
On arrival in the chosen resort,
messing around in the water is
essential for a successful holiday,
with a nice pool (33%), waterslide
(18%) and a kids’ only pool (9%)
topping the list for most important
hotel feature according to those
surveyed. Home comforts are also
key with children, with a TV being the
most important hotel room item
(20%), followed by a comfy bed (18%)
and Wi-Fi (15%).
Jet2.com & Jet2holidays announce new destinations for summer 2016
JET2.COM and Jet2holidays
have launched their biggest
flights and holidays
programme for summer
2016, which features 209
routes to 51 destinations
across the Mediterranean,
Eastern Mediterranean,
Canary Islands and top
European cities.
A total of 5.9 million seats
will be available next year
across seven UK bases,
three million of which are to
top Spanish destinations.
Key developments include
the leisure operator’s
biggest growth at Edinburgh
Airport with 12 new
destinations including
Antalya, Crete, Dalaman,
Gran Canaria, Lanzarote,
Paphos, Rhodes and
Tenerife, plus exclusive
routes to Kefalonia,
Larnaca, Vienna and Zante;
significant growth at
Newcastle International
Airport with a seventh
aircraft and more than
750,000 seats to 29
destinations; an exclusive
destination for Northern
Ireland, Fuerteventura, plus
two new routes for East
Midlands Airport - the
Greek island of Kefalonia
and Italian city, Verona; and
further growth at Glasgow
Airport with 50,000 more
seats.
Steve Heapy, CEO of
Jet2.com and Jet2holidays,
said: “This is going to be
our biggest season ever. We
know travel agents want to
give their customers even
more opportunities to go on
holiday to their favourite
destinations. This is why we
are adding more new and
exciting places for people to
visit plus increasing
capacity and adding earlier
flights to our most popular
leisure routes.
"We are a fast growing
business and Edinburgh is
an important base for us.
We want to give our loyal
local customers even more
choice and flexibility when it
comes to their holiday
planning for next year. The
12 new routes are what
local people have been
Last chance to vote!
Voting closes this Friday for Travel Bulletin’s Star Awards
2015, so it’s your very last chance to vote for your
favourite suppliers. Visit
www.travelbulletin.co.uk/awards/how-to-vote. The awards
shortlist will be revealed on Friday June 26.
4
May 29 2015
Steve Heapy (left) from Jet2.com and Gordon Dewar from
Edinburgh Airport celebrate the new launch
asking for and with the four
exclusive routes –
Kefalonia, Larnaca, Vienna
and Zante – we are giving
people new and exciting
places to visit. Agents can
certainly capitalise on the
exclusive new routes as
they are fantastic, brand
new places for people to
visit. It’s also the first time
they can sell our great
value package holidays to
the Canary Islands, Greek
Islands and Eastern
Mediterranean."
For further information visit
trade.jet2holidays.com
Launch of CMV's Magellan world cruise
Cruise & Maritime Voyages (CMV) has announced the launch
of its first Round the World Cruise on its new flagship,
Magellan, which will set sail from Tilbury on January 5, 2017
circumnavigating the globe over four leisurely months cruising
via the West Indies, Panama Canal, French Polynesia,
Australasia, South East Asia and the Far East, India, the Red
Sea, Suez Canal and the Holy Land and Med, before returning
to Tilbury on May 5.
Nine shorter cruise sector options are also available based
on Auckland, Sydney, Hong Kong and Singapore itineraries.
Early booking twin saver fares represent savings of up to
40% and start from £8,999 or £75 per person, per night with a
reduced 25% single supplement on superior grades starting
from £13,629.
Call 0844-963 0000 for details.
S02 TB2905 2015 News 1_Layout 1 27/05/2015 10:56 Page 5
Summer breaks at Butlin’s from £95
BUTLIN’S IS offering families deals on selected short
breaks during the school summer holidays.
From July 17 to September 4, three- and four-night
breaks start from £95 per person and are available at all
three seaside resorts.
Entertainment for the summer includes the former
Redcoat Stephen Mulhern, who returns with a variety show
on every midweek break during the school holidays.
Diversity will also perform live on selected breaks and the
Big Top Circus is back, complete with performances from
trapeze artists, aerial gymnasts and circus clowns.
Families with tots can also enjoy PLAY-DOH’s new
‘PLAY-DOH Live’ show, Tree Fu Tom and Cbeebies star Katy
in her new show ‘It’s Time with Katy’.
Prices are based on four sharing a standard selfcatering apartment at the Minehead resort, based on an
August 31 arrival for four nights.
Explore the South West from Norwich
OMEGA HOLIDAYS is offering a new seven-night escorted
holiday by air to Devon, Cornwall and the Eden Project,
departing on Sunday July 26 from Norwich.
It includes flights, three-star accommodation with a
three-course dinner and breakfast, transfers, admission to
the Eden Project and full day excursions to Torquay and
Dartmoor National Park.
Prices lead in at £599 per person and the company is
also offering a flight-only option from £99 return.
For further information visit www.omega-holidays.com
newsbulletin
Explore launches new tours to
Uzbekistan, China and Indonesia
EXPLORE HAS launched three new Discovery tours to
China, Indonesia and Uzbekistan, taking customers off
the tourist trail to gain an authentic travel experience.
Whether it’s exploring the Silk Road, searching for
Komodo Dragons or celebrating the Chinese New Year at
Dejilin Monastery; there is a unique and exciting
adventure for everyone.
A new Highlights of Uzbekistan option offers a sevenday tour to the Silk Road cities in Central Asia. This fast
paced adventure takes customers on a journey to the
walled city of Khiva, through the old caravan route to
Bokhara and to the monuments in Registan Square in
Samarkland. Customers will also learn about the
colourful history of the Silk Road and explore the capital
of Tashkent. Tours depart in September and October and
cost from £1,099 per person including flights; six nights'
hotel accommodation with breakfast; transport; and the
services of a tour leader, driver and local guides.
The company's new Volcanoes, Dragons and Beaches
is a 12-day tour to the islands of Bali, Flores and Komodo
in Indonesia. It visits Ubud and its Balinese temples,
Kelimutu - famous for its three colourful acid crater
lakes and Komodo National Park to go in search of the
infamous Komodo dragon.
Customers will also spend a night on the waters of the
Komodo archipelago as well as relax on the beaches of
Sanur. Tours depart in September and October and cost
from £1,872 including flights; ten nights’ hotel and one
night boat accommodation on a bed-and-breakfast basis;
transport; and the services of a tour leader, driver and
local guides.
Meanwhile, a 14-day Festivals of Yunnan tour of China
takes in the Chinese New Year celebrations including the
Midu Huadeng Festival, known as the Flower Lantern
Festival. During the trip, guests will also visit a giant
panda sanctuary in Chengdu and explore the Shaxi Friday
market. Customers will welcome in the New Year at
Dejilin Monastery while watching traditional dances and
blessings. Tours depart in February 2016 and cost from
£2,747 including flights; seven nights’ hotel and six
nights’ guesthouse accommodation on a bed-andbreakfast basis; transport; and the services of a tour
leader, driver and local guide.
For more information or to book visit www.explore.co.uk,
or call 01252-884723.
May 29 2015
5
newsbulletin
Last chance to offer up to 50% off with Amadeus
LATE DEALS with 50% off
published fares are being
offered by Amadeus River
Cruises on bookings made
by May 31, for a selection of
departures on its eight-day
Classical Danube sailings
on Amadeus Silver and the
newly-launched Amadeus
Silver II.
Net rate prices start from
£525 per person (cruise
only) on three departures –
June 21, August 16 and
October 1 and include
transfers from Nuremberg
(for Passau) or Budapest
airport or rail station to the
vessel.
Sailing from either
Passau or Budapest, the
cruise calls at Regensburg,
Linz, Melk, Weissenkirchen,
Vienna, Bratislava and
Esztergom.
Also included in the price
is a cocktail reception,
welcome dinner and
Captain’s gala dinner;
gourmet dining with all
meals included; freeflowing quality red and
white wines, beer and soft
drinks with every dinner on
board; complimentary WiFi; and entertainment
including lectures, cooking
demonstrations and music
performances.
A choice of four
excursion packages is
available with prices from
£78 for a programme
featuring four city tours,
rising to £363 per person
for the most comprehensive
option featuring a minimum
of 12 tours along the route.
The cruise-only rates
enable agents to build a
bespoke package to meet
their clients’ requirements.
For further information call
01252-714477 or visit
www.amadeusrivercruises.
co.uk
Game of Thrones deals by SuperBreak
GAME OF THRONES fans can now enjoy a short break in
Ireland with the chance to explore two of the main areas
where the show's most iconic scenes were created.
SuperBreak has launched two new tours that can be
added to any hotel booking. Highlights of a Wasteros Tour,
which leads in at £35 per person, include Cushendun to
visit the cave which featured Melisandre giving birth to the
shadow assassin; Ballintoy Harbour where Theon Greyjoy
comes back to Pyke Harbour; Larrybane - where Renly
swears to Lady Stark that he will avenge Ned's death, but
meets his end at the hands of the shadow assassin; The
Dark Hedges where Arya Stark makes her escape down
The Kings Road; and a visit to Giant’s Causeway.
A Winterfell Tour leads in at £40 and highlights include
Tollymore Forest Park – to visit the place where the Dire
Wolf Pups were discovered, and also where the
Whitewalker ambush took place; Inch Abbey – the site
where Lady Catelyn Stark heard of Ned’s death, and where
Robb was then made King of The North; and finally
Audley’s Castle and Castle Ward – the location used for
King Robert Baratheon’s arrival at Winterfell and
numerous other scenes featuring the Stark family.
Tours can be added to any Belfast hotel when booking,
and overall packages cost from £122.50 per person
including two nights' room-only accommodation at the
three-star Ibis Belfast City Centre Hotel and the Game of
Thrones Westeros Tour.
For details visit www.superbreak.com/agents
or call 01904-436000.
Scenic launches agent competition to
mark launch of 2016 brochure
SHOPPING SPREE...
The Louisiana Office of Tourism gave away up to £400 in Harrods
vouchers in February, through a competition with Travel Bulletin.
Pictured with the state's Neil Jones is one of the winners, Sharon
McConway from North America Travel Services, who won £250 in
vouchers.
6
May 29 2015
SCENIC HAS issued its
2016 Europe River Cruise
brochure, which showcases
a comprehensive portfolio
of all-inclusive journeys
through central Europe,
France, Russia and
Portugal.
Highlights include new
Portugal cruises on Scenic
Azure; an enhanced
collection of Enrich
experiences and
Freechoice activities; lower
prices; and a
comprehensive list of
inclusions and destination
information.
To mark the launch,
guests who book their 2016
river cruise by July 31 will
save a minimum of £1,500
per couple, with additional
savings available on
selected French
departures.
Prices start from £1,495
per person, based on an
eight-day Danube Delights
adventure from Nuremberg
to Budapest.
Meanwhile, for every
2016 Scenic river cruise
booking made, agents win
a prize and earn a letter.
The aim of the game is to
sell a total of six cruises
and spell out ‘WONDER’ in
full to be awarded the top
prize of a luxury cruise for
two.
To order the brochure visit
www.tradegate.co.uk or
email
[email protected]
to register 2016 bookings.
Enjoy diving in Tabarka
Discover the archaeological site of Dougga
www.cometotunisia.co.uk
HERE I COME.
newsbulletin
Notes from
.
.
.
n
o
t
n
a
m
Nor
Newsbites
●
●
B
ACK FROM a brilliant fam trip led by Sandra
Bruce who is the UK representative for the
Halkidiki Tourist Board – big thank you for
asking me! We had a lovely guide called Tania who
made sure we were where we were supposed to be
& full of information. Stayed at the Capsis Hotel in
Thessaloniki and talk about brilliant service; we
were late arriving and even though the dining room
had closed at 10.00 they still cooked us a fantastic
meal for 14 of us. One of the best things about this
hotel is that a lot of the staff have been there many
years. It was lovely to be greeted by Kostas, one of
the doorman and he remembered me from last year.
Was also great to be met by Anotoli again the next
morning, who is so enthusiastic. The hotel has a
wonderful pool on the top floor where you can see
the city and it’s not far to walk to the harbour. Next
day it was off for a city tour and a visit to Vergina
Museum whish features treasures and the tomb of
King Phillip II. Then on to the Kassandra Palace for
one night - a lovely hotel on the beach which has a
new spa. It was Athitos village the next morning for
a stroll through the village and coffee at the Blue
Bay Hotel perched just above the beach, followed by
lunch at one of my favourite hotels - Antigoni Beach
Resort, run by Christos and his family. It’s just
across from the beach and you would not believe
how beautifully decorated the rooms are. We had
coffee at the Thalassokipos Hotel with the most
fantastic views - what a wonderful chill out retreat.
Dinner and overnight was at Porto Carras with its
own harbour, beach, horse-riding, watersports, spa
and even its own wine cellar! Morning saw us
setting off to the Ouranoupolis region and a cruise
round Mt Athos Byzantine Monasteries where only
monks live. We had lunch at Eagles Palace in a
lovely courtyard setting. I will tell you more about
the trip next time!
‘It is never too late to be what you might have
been’ and ‘The more you lose yourself in something
bigger than yourself, the more energy you will have’.
by SANDRA MURRAY
in Normanton, Yorkshire
8
To respond to any
of Sandy’s comments email
[email protected]
May 29 2015
●
SWINGIN GRONINGEN, the largest free jazz festival in
the Netherlands, promises music lovers three days of
the finest jazz, funk, soul, groove and dance music
from June 11-13. Flybe, operated by Stobart Air, is
offering seat-only prices from £39.99 one-way from
London Southend Airport.
For details see www.flybe.com
PHASE 1 of the new 'touch and go' public websites
was unveiled as an option for homeworkers at the
Your Holiday Booking conference in Crete earlier this
month. The site is aimed at supporting agents who
want to showcase Yourholidaybooking.com stock,
create new business and increase their client base. It
is free for YHB homeworkers and allows them to take
ownership of their dedicated website, updating and
personalising stock description and content.
BELLEAIR HOLIDAYS has revamped its website to
make it easier for agents to navigate the site and
access information for customers. It gives agents the
chance to extend their selling opportunities with
inspiring itineraries and added value packages for
Sardinia, Sicily, Sorrento and Ischia as well as Malta
and its surrounding islands.
See www.belleair.co.uk
Brittany Ferries marks return of Barfleur
vessel to Poole with new deals
BRITTANY FERRIES' Poole—Cherbourg ferry Barfleur
returned to service this month following an extensive tenweek, £10million refit and, to mark the occasion, the
company is offering three value holiday offers to
Cherbourg.
A one-night 'Cruise & Stay' hotel break leads in at £64
per person and is ideal for discovering the old port and La
Cité de la Mer where guests can take in an exhibition on
Titanic, see the aquarium and tour a decommissioned
nuclear submarine. The price includes return travel from
Poole or Portsmouth and one night’s breakfast stay at a
choice of hotels. It is available for travel before June 30
and from September 1.
Alternatively, a one-night 'Gourmet Break' costs from
£89 and includes return travel from Poole or Portsmouth,
one night’s breakfast stay at the Ambassadeur Hotel
overlooking the port and a three-course dinner and
aperitif. The offer is available until June 27 and from
September 8.
Meanwhile, a St Vaast la Hougue 'Cruise & Stay' hotel
break leads in at £89 which includes taking a car, and is
ideal for guests who want to discover the Cotentin
peninsula. Additionally, customers are entitled to two-forthe-price-of-one entry to Cherbourg’s Cité de la Mer, which
offers a unique insight into man's adventures under the
sea.
To book or for more information see
www.brittanyferries.com/offers or call
0871-244 1400.
agentbulletin
Booking incentives
●
SILVERSEA IS giving agents the chance to
win a Mediterranean cruise in a new trade
incentive scheme. Any agent who makes a
confirmed booking by June 7 will be
entered into the draw. During the
competition, more than 1,500 limited
edition chocolate bars are also being
distributed to agents across the UK. Six
chocolate bars will contain a silver ticket
which entitles the agent to a European ship
visit during the summer 2015 season, and
a further 30 bars will offer a £20
Love2Shop voucher.
●
AGENTS CAN be in with a chance to win
one of two £100 shopping vouchers as part
of Travel 2’s new ‘Experience Virgin
Australia’ campaign by making a booking
(including Virgin Australia flights) by June
14. Meanwhile, agents who make a new
booking to Las Vegas that includes flights
and minimum of three nights’
accommodation by June 7 will be in with
the chance of winning £500 towards a
Vegas-style night out.
For details visit www.travel2.com
●
AURORA EXPEDITIONS has extended its
Antarctic Agent incentive and is giving
agents until Monday (May 31) the chance
to earn a $250 cash card for every
Antarctic booking made (in addition to
commission) on selected 2015/16 season
departures. Agents need to return their
clients’ completed booking and deposit
on the following departures to be eligible
for the cash card incentive: Scotia Sea
Springtime (November to December 8),
Spirit of Antarctica (December 8-19),
Christmas in Antarctica (December 1929) and New Year in Antarctica
(December 27 to January 6, 2016).
For details email
[email protected]
●
COSMOS TOURS & Cruises is offering
agents the chance of winning a pair of
tickets to see the West End musical
‘Memphis’ plus an overnight stay at a
London hotel. Runner-up prizes include
two pairs of tickets to visit ‘Elvis at the O2:
The Exhibition of His Life’. Any agent
making a booking on any of the company’s
North American holidays before June 5 will
be entered into the prize draw. Agents
should email their name, ABTA number
and booking reference to
[email protected]
AGENT COMPETITION
FUNWAY HOLIDAYS has tea
med up with Sonoma
County, Sacramento, South
Lake Tahoe and
United Airlines on a new cam
paign called ‘SIP &
SKI 365’, which runs until
July 10. The campaign
aims to showcase northern
California at its best
and includes a weekly mailsh
ot to agents and
agency window flyers. It als
o includes a competition offering agents the cha
nce to win a SIP & SKI
experience including Econom
y flights with United
Airlines, three nights in Son
oma Wine Country,
three nights in Sacramento
and three nights in
South Lake Tahoe, plus act
ivities in all three
destinations and car hire.
To enter visit www.sipands
ki365.co.uk
AGENT OFFER
to take a fourHAVEN IS giving agents the chance
per family.
£59
for
ilies
night break with their fam
s in June
date
cted
sele
Agents can book a break on
a deluxe
ring
sha
ily
fam
and the price is based on a
up to six
ps
slee
that
van
two- or three-bedroom cara
isurenele
our
w.b
ww
t
or eight people. To book visi
tab
the
er
und
form
the
sales.co.uk and complete
to
il
ema
and
ls’
‘For You – Educationa
[email protected]
TULIP TALES....
Visions Holiday Group and Turkish Airlines recently hosted a fam trip to Istanbul
and the Bodrum Peninsula. Pictured at a tulip festival in Istanbul are, from the
left:
Julie Croucher, Travel with Jules; Maria Gethins, Worlds Apart Travel; Abbey
Thomas, Visions Holiday Group; Laura Rattue, Bath Travel; Melanie Knight,
Courtney World Travel; and Maddie Kipps, Visions Holiday Group.
May 29 2015
9
newsbulletin
New summer campaign from Cosmos Holidays puts focus on value & service
COSMOS HOLIDAYS has launched its latest consumer
marketing campaign for the summer season focusing on
great value deals, with the added promise of a unique
service offered by Cosmos Concierge.
Entitled ‘Make your holiday a HoliYAY’, the new creative
campaign focuses on the excitement of booking and going on
holiday, with the holiday ‘yay’ moments - made better by
Cosmos Concierge, which is exclusive to customers.
Operated by experienced and knowledgeable overseas
staff, the service offers free of charge advice on a wide
range of local services and is available to customers prior to
and during their holiday, and also when customers return
from their travels. No request is too large or too small from advising on the local supermarket that offers the best
value for money, to arranging for a beach to be sectioned off
for a wedding proposal.
The operator is highlighing a range of deals including
thousands of holidays less than £199 per person when
booked by June 12.
Commenting on the campaign, the company's marketing
Director, Kevin O’Regan, said: “There is a perception that a
keenly priced holiday means compromise – inconvenient
flight times or a restricted choice of hotels or destinations.
We want our customers who are looking for a great deal for
summer 2015 to know that with us this is not the case. They
can get great value with all the added benefits of Cosmos
Concierge."
For further information see www.cosmosagents.co.uk
Up to £1,400 off per couple & agent incentive from Avalon Waterways
AVALON WATERWAYS has
launched its European 2016
brochure featuring a choice
of river cruises with
durations from eight-24
days, savings of up to
£1,400 off per couple as
well as a £25 Love2Shop
voucher incentive for agents
making bookings before
June 30.
The 2016 full European
programme includes cruises
on the new Suite Ships
Avalon Passion and Avalon
Imagery II, due for delivery in
spring 2016.
Avalon Passion will sail
the longer river cruise
itineraries including the 11day ‘Legendary Danube’, the
13-day ‘Blue Danube
Discovery’, the 13-day
‘European Splendour’ and
14-day ‘Blue Danube’ to the
Black Sea. Avalon Imagery II
will sail the eight-day
‘Romantic Rhine’.
Lead in prices, to include
the early booking savings,
are from £1,495 per person
for an eight-day ‘Paris to
Normandy Landing Beaches’
cruise.
The two new ships will
bring the number of Suite
Ships to 12 and fleet total to
16.
All Suite Ships have two
decks of Panorama Suites at
200sq.ft, 30% larger than
industry standard,
IN TRANSAT...
Air Transat hosted a breakfast Q&A session and an aircraft tour of
an Airbus A330 for 14 agents at Glasgow Airport recently. Pictured
on the tour are, from the left: Cheri Smith, Travel 2; Jim French,
Walter Wolfe and Joselin McGhee, Travel Counsellors; Kenny
Donnelly, GLA Airport; Lisa Larose, Air Transat; and Graham
Eadie, Glen Travel.
10
May 29 2015
representing 80% of
staterooms on each ship.
All are well-appointed
with wall-to-wall sliding
panoramic windows opening
to create an open-air
balcony, as well as large
private bathrooms with full
shower, spacious storage,
L’Occitane bath products,
Comfort Collection beds and
Egyptian cotton linens.
Two new cruises will be
introduced for 2016 featuring
Holland and Belgium. An
eight-day ‘Charms of
Holland and Belgium’ costs
from £1,719 per person
(which includes a £350 per
person saving) features the
historical cities of
Amsterdam, Antwerp and
Ghent and landmark sights
of the windmills of
Kinderdijk, as well as the
spring blooms of the
Keukenhof Gardens plus the
towns of Willemstad and
Middelburg.
A nine-day ‘Pride of
Belgium’ leads in at £1,765
and includes a £350 per
person saving. It features
visits to the Battlefields of
Ypres and Eastern Flanders,
as well as guided visits to
Maastricht, Antwerp and
Ghent. Departures are
available throughout April.
Two new history themed
cruises for 2016 include the
newly introduced ‘Pride of
Belgium’ cruise featuring a
special WWI themed
departure on April 4, and the
newly named ‘Danube
Dreams’ cruise featuring a
special themed departure on
April 13 on the history of the
Hapsburg Empire. Both
feature special on-board
lectures.
Meanwhile, three new
special ‘beer themed’
departures have been
introduced on ‘Charms of
Holland & Belgium’ (April
12), ‘Danube Dreams’ (March
30) and ‘Blue Danube
Discovery’ (November 9).
All will include discovering
more about regional beers
with on-board tastings and
lectures, as well as visits to
historic breweries and a
pairing dinner with beers
chosen to complement
regional dishes.
The 2016 programme will
offer the most flexible
choice of travel options with
flights from up to 21 UK
airports, connecting rail
travel from the UK to all
European cruises with
overnight city stops enroute, as well as the choice
of making own travel
arrangements.
Early booking savings are
available on bookings made
before June 30 and prices
include flights, a private
home pick up service
(within 100 miles of the
departure airport or
station), transfers, seven
nights' full board luxury
cruise accommodation, a
range of guided excursions,
onboard gratuities and all
taxes.
puzzlebulletin
Travagrams
Su Doku
Win a £50 M&S voucher in the travelbulletin Su Doku prize puzzle
Number: 021
Can you solve the following anagrams to decipher the destination & tour operator?
Study Rune Wow
A➠
B➠
Tour operator specialising in trips to China,
Southeast Asia, Japan and India
C➠
D➠
Fill in all the squares in the grid so that each row, column and each of the
3 x 3 squares contains the digits 1-9.
Once you have completed the puzzle, simply identify the numbers that relate
to the letters, A, B, C and D then e-mail the solution, with your name,
company name, and full postal address plus phone and ABTA number if
applicable to:
Wear Nelson
Louisiana’s ‘Big Easy’ on the Mississippi river
Where Am I?
[email protected]
Closing date for entries is Thursday, June 4th. Solution and new puzzle will
appear next week.
Fitou is produced in this wine region.
Crossword
Fill in the crossword to reveal the mystery location highlighted by the green squares.
Number: 021
Across
1. P&O family-friendly cruise ship (7)
4. Help yourself to cash here, initially (3)
6. Private island on the Thames at Twickenham,
___ Pie (3)
8. City where you can visit Napoleon's
birthplace (7)
9. The largest island of the Cyclades (5)
11. Sicily's highest Mount (4)
12. Edinburgh airport code (3)
14. American actress, ___ Hathaway (4)
15. One of the New England states (5)
17. Belgian city and port (7)
19. Swanky San Francisco district, ___ Hill (3)
20. Gardeners' World presenter, Monty (3)
21. Former currency of Greece (7)
Down
1. City host of the recent Eurovision Song
Contest (6)
2. Country initially, with Atlantic and Pacific
coastlines (3)
3. City home of Disneyland (7)
4. Georgetown is the capital of this remote
South Atlantic island (9)
5. EastEnders lottery winners Alfie and Kat who
recently left Albert Square (4)
7. Kentucky city, known as the Horse Capital of
the World (9)
10. Popular summer and winter resort in the
Tyrol (7)
13. Belgrade is the capital (6)
16. Currency of South Africa (4)
18. Flag carrier of Pakistan, initially (3)
For the solution to the Crossword, Where Am I?
and Travagrams, please see page 30
May 29 2015
11
bulletinbriefing
Industry Insight
by...
It’s a family affair: Colin O’Neill, business development director at The Advantage Travel
Partnership, offers an insight into the planning of the group’s annual overseas conference
IVEN THE Advantage conference is a key event on
our annual calendar, you will not be surprised to
learn that a review of the conference will form the
basis of my column this month.
I am also conscious that many of the key themes of
the conference have already been covered in Travel
Bulletin and whilst I would be very happy to go over
them again, I suspect you may consider it overkill.
As an alternative, I want to give you an insight into the
event from an organiser’s perspective, starting with the
rationale for spending so much time and effort creating
the event in the first place.
In essence, our annual conference largely typifies the
core purposes of the Advantage Travel Partnership
organisation which are:
G
•To truly understand our members and their businesses
and to provide services, advice and support to improve
the quality of them.
• To serve as a communications hub between our
members and key business partners, both in the leisure
and business travel sectors of the market.
• To create a culture of belonging and a family spirit
where companies and individuals enjoy doing business
with one another.
As you can see, those core values essentially form the
cornerstone of our conferences in that we bring likeminded people together to share a common experience,
where new ideas on business improvements can be
presented and debated, in an environment of trust,
understanding and enjoyment.
As far as the environment is concerned, it is fair to say
that the beautiful holiday resort surroundings provided
by the Sea Garden Resort and Mark Warner, helped to
amplify the sense of belonging in that Advantage
conference delegates largely had exclusive access to the
entire resort.
Extending the wider membership metaphor, we also
realise that our members pay a fee to be part of the
organisation and it is important that they obtain value
for money for the services provided to them. Our
members also have to go to considerable lengths to
attend our conference; we never underestimate the
12
May 29 2015
"Looking ahead to our 2016
conference, the event will be very
different again as we have decided
to build the conference around a
mini cruise. Taking place during the
middle of April, the conference will
allow us to combine on-board
conference sessions and events as
well as shore excursion to leading
Mediterranean destinations…"
time, effort and cost that goes into attendance. Which is
why it is important to survey each of our delegates
following the event to understand the things that they
enjoyed and found of value in and, equally as important,
the areas for improvements. In the build up to our 2015
conference, we implemented a number of changes to
the overall event directly as a consequence of feedback
received from our 2014 conference in Dubai. I suspect
that we make further adjustments to next year’s
programme following delegate feedback in Bodrum.
Looking ahead to our 2016 conference, the event will
be very different again as we have decided to build the
conference around a mini cruise. Taking place during
the middle of April, the conference will allow us to
combine on-board conference sessions and events as
well as shore excursion to leading Mediterranean
destinations - a real mix of business and pleasure. It
should also be noted that given the scale and
importance of the cruise market to UK travel agents, it
is highly appropriate that we should choose to hold our
next major event on a cruise ship, that ship being MSC
Fantasia, the flagship vessel in the MSC fleet.
And so things move on and the curtain comes down
on another Advantage conference, but we will never lose
sight of the opportunity to create environments of
mutual learning for our members and business partners
to improve the quality of service that they are offering
their customers.
newsbulletin
Insight issues Europe 2015/16
autumn, winter & spring collection
INSIGHT VACATIONS has launched its 2015/16 Autumn,
Winter & Spring Europe programme including the
Eastern Mediterranean and Christmas Markets.
The new brochure includes 40 premium class and
luxury holidays, with prices up to 28% lower than the
summer programme. It also features three new
Christmas Markets itineraries in Poland, Austria and
Italy, plus three new Insight Gold Luxury journeys in
Egypt.
Paul Melinis, the operator's head of sales, said:
"Along with perennial favourites like Alpine Christmas
Markets and Winter Wonderland we are very excited to
be adding three new itineraries that visit some of the
lesser known Christmas Markets in Poland, Austria and
Italy. All of our itineraries offer unique Signature
Experiences like meeting a local stallholder at the
Vienna Christmas Markets and sampling the Austrian
delicacy of Linzer Torte or taking a horse-drawn carriage
through the Tyrolean Capital of Innsbruck.”
Signature Experiences on other itineraries include a
paella cooking demonstration in Valencia with a master
chef and a journey by cable car and cogwheel railway in
Switzerland to a mountain summit for views over Lake
Lucerne.
The new 2015/16 winter programme also reintroduces the company's Egypt itineraries, with three
new Gold Luxury journeys, each of which incorporate
cruising on the all-suite River Tosca on the Nile.
As an example of prices, a seven-day Christmas
Markets of Germany, Austria & Italy leads in at £1,675
per person and travels from Munich to Venice, visiting
five Christmas Markets at a leisurely pace. It Includes a
visit to Italy’s largest Christmas Market in Bolzano,
where guests have the chance to meet a stall holder and
enjoy a mug of steaming mulled wine and a piece of the
local Zelten Christmas Cake. A festive horse and
carriage ride in the Tyrolean capital of Innsbruck is also
offered as a Signature Experience. Departures are
available from November 29 to December 15.
The company is offering guests an early payment
discount of up to 7.5% off selected 2015/16 Winter
Europe tours when they book and pay in full by
August 31.
For more information visit www.insightvacations.com or
call 0800-206 1468.
WARE TO MEET...
18 independent travel agents from ten agencies in The Home
Counties attended the most recent workshop of BRIGHT (Bringing
Real Information & Guaranteed High Quality Training) in Ware, hosted
by members from Viking River Cruises, Jersey Tourism, Cox & Kings,
Explore, Kirker Holidays, Hurtigruten, Islas Canarias, 1st Class
Holidays and Veloso Tours. Pictured are, from the left: Elizabeth
Brackley and Frank Woolley of Romano Travel with Erika Fernandez
of Islas Canarias. The next workshop and dinner events take place at
The Hotel Llyndir near Chester on June 2 and in Belfast on June 3 at
Ten Square Hotel.
For details see www.brightconsortia.com or email
[email protected] to book or for details.
Funway issues 2015/16 brochure
FUNWAY HOLIDAYS is launching its latest USA 2015/16
brochure this Monday, with new destinations plus special
focus being placed on its range of holiday options available,
including self-drive, coach, train, cruise and motorbike
holidays. Also highlighted in the new brochure are
National Parks with two new hotels featured in Yosemite
National Park area, plus more emphasis on ranch holidays
with the addition of Zapata Ranch in Colorado.
The brochure, bookable for travel until December 2016,
features a total of 90 new properties in some of the US’
most popular cities.
New destinations include Wyoming, Montana and North
and South Dakota, and prices start from £525 per person
for seven nights in Orlando, staying in a Disney Area private
three-bedroom home including flights with Virgin Atlantic
from Gatwick on November 18.
For details see www.funway4agents.co.uk
Warner Leisure Hotels launches new summer shows with four nights from £219
WARNER LEISURE Hotels has
launched two new shows to kick start
the summer season - ‘Destination
Anywhere’ and ‘It’s a Swing Thing’.
Performances will begin early
summer and the shows will be split
across all 13 of the company's historic
country houses and coastal
hideaways.
‘Destination Anywhere’ will offer
guests a seat aboard the non-stop
musical express, with a line-up of
songs inspired by the joy of travelling.
The show will premiere at Gunton Hall
Coastal Village on July 9,
Bodelwyddan Castle Hotel on July 14,
Nidd Hall Hotel on July 15, Holme
Lacy House Hotel on July 28, Cricket
St Thomas Hotel on July 30, Lakeside
Coastal Village on August 4 and
Bembridge Coast Hotel on August 6.
Meanwhile, ‘It’s a Swing Thing’
features infectious songs and toetapping dance routines as it pays
tribute to great swing pioneers such
as Glenn Miller, Bennie Goodman,
Frank Sinatra and Michael Bublé. The
show will premiere at Norton Grange
Coastal Village on June 30, Corton
Coastal Village on July 8, Alvaston Hall
Hotel on July 13, Thoresby Hall Hotel
on July 16, Littlecote House Hotel on
July 29 and Sinah Warren Coastal
Hotel on August 19.
Both shows are available during
mid-week and weekend breaks. A
four-night midweek break at Lakeside
Coastal Village in Hampshire starts
from £219 per person, based on an
August 3 arrival and two adults
sharing a standard room on a Simply
Dine package.
May 29 2015
13
technology
Agent Facebook group from Club Med
DIGITAL DIALOGUE
In this month’s column, Andy Speight, managing
director at Digital Trip, looks at how technology plays
an important role in inspiring travellers...
HO ARE today's typical travellers? Generally speaking,
they are digitally-savvy individuals, equipped with
multiple web-enabled devices. They regularly surf the
web, are engaged with social media and visit at least 20 sites for
holiday research. More importantly, they expect a personalised
experience with content that reflects their interests.
Sources of inspiration for leisure travel range from personal
recommendations and internet research (the two most popular
sources) to TV, printed media and radio (lower down the list, but
still playing a part). What would-be travellers are looking for are
real-life stories that will engage, enthuse and reflect their own
interests. To feed this appetite for real-life stories, 76% of
travellers are posting photos on a social network and 46% share
travel reviews. More than half of holidaymakers are inspired by
friends' Facebook posts, and social media is the main source of
travel ideas and inspiration for one in three travellers.
Travellers are becoming increasingly reliant on reviews
posted online. Research shows that these reviews are playing a
major part in the decision-making process for travellers, with
those aged 35 and under most likely to share their travel
experiences online – via social media in particular. It is also this
age group that are most influenced by online travel reviews.
Regardless of demographics, online reviews are changing the
face of travel, with 93% of travellers worldwide confirming that
online reviews impact their booking decisions. The key
challenge for travel companies is exercising an effective
reputation management programme.
In terms of how brands can get involved in social, videos
make a good starting point. More than half of travellers will
have viewed an online video from a brand to find out more about
a destination or service. Videos help travellers make decisions,
not just about where they want to go, but also where to stay and
what to do when they get there.
One of the key challenges for brands in this initial stage of
the customer journey is fully engaging with them. As a brand
you need to create interesting, relevant and visual content that
will inspire your audience. You also need to encourage usergenerated content in the form of reviews to empower your
brand advocates. Add regular monitoring of activity to the mix
and you have the first stage of the customer journey in the bag.
Another challenge that should be on every travel business'
radar is personalisation; businesses must portray their brand in
a way that treats every one of their customers as an individual.
When travellers are presented with content that doesn't match
their interests – or their place within the buying journey – they
are less likely to remain on that site. Fact.
Another key focus needs to be creating cross-channel
engagement whilst also maintaining consistency. Websites need
to be dynamic and mobile-enabled to allow customers to
conduct their research as and when they choose. Providing a
more personalised experience based on users' profiles, online
behaviour and search patterns is something travel businesses
can no longer ignore.
W
14
May 29 2015
CLUB MED has created a Facebook group which allows its
trade team to educate and incentivise agents on new
updates, as well as help them to market to their clients.
The site posts the latest resort news in real-time, along with
offers, reviews and discounts, providing travel agents with
material to help sell the company’s holiday experience and
encourage a two-way communication between the operator
and travel partners.
The group aims to ease the entire selling process for agents
with marketing materials, including downloadable flyers,
window posters and videos of resorts available to share.
Virtual cruise ship experience from MSC
MSC CRUISES has developed
fully immersive virtual reality
tours of its ships in
partnership with Samsung.
The technology will be
showcased at Expo 2015 in
Milan until October 31 and
then made available to top
UK and European travel
agent partners to enrich the
way clients are introduced to
the line’s experience at the
time of sale. Users can ‘walk’
freely through key areas of
the ship, take a seat in the
ship’s theatre, watch a show
and, with the 360° sensory
technology, smell aromas
that fill the air of the line’s
restaurant.
InBrief
● VIRGIN TRAINS is launching a trial of a new lost property recovery
system. With HomingPIN, customers receive a unique PIN code to
register on the website along with a luggage loop, key ring and a
set of labels – each with their unique code printed on – which can
be attached to their possessions. If a lost item is found, the PIN
code is entered on the website to be matched back to the owner.
See www.homingPIN.com
● TRAVELPORT HAS announced a renewed long term agreement
with Deutsche Bahn. Since the creation of Travelport’s ‘RailMaster
for DB’ reservation tool, the system is now deployed in 18 countries
outside of Germany and offers a mobile ticket service.
● THOMSON AND ITV are to offer a 50% discount on a month’s
subscription to ITV Essentials. Available on desktop, iPhone and
iPad, ITV Essentials is offered in 12 European countries with a 30
day catch up window. The partnership will run until November 10
and the promo code is THOMSONTV.
● INTUITIVE HAS announced it now offers ‘mix & match’ flights
through its flagship reservation platform iVector. The flight search
combines two single searches when a user looks for a return
flight. This enables them to find and book the most suitable
flights even if the airline is different for the outbound and
return journeys.
See www.intuitivesystems.com
● A ‘SELF-sustaining community tech hub’ in the shape of a date
palm, The Smart Palm is a man-made tree that provides free Wi-Fi
and information services as well as eight high-speed phone and
tablet charging points for the public to use for free in Dubai’s
parks and beaches.
See www.visitdubai.com
airtravel
Qantas launches ‘Joey Club’
QANTAS’ YOUNGEST flyers will enjoy a range of new benefits
when travelling with the airline, with the unveiling of
‘The Joey Club’.
Children’s entertainment group, The Wiggles, has joined the
carrier in the new programme which aims to create
memorable and engaging travel experiences for children and
their families.
Initiatives of the club include a novelty passport for new
Australian-based Frequent Flyer members (aged three-ten)
where they can record details of their flight; dedicated kids’
menus in domestic lounges, including made to order
sandwiches in animal shapes, fresh fruit and snacks such as
popcorn and sultanas; and larger investment in children’s
inflight entertainment channels.
To celebrate the launch of the new club, the airline is
waiving the normal joining fee of $89.50 to offer a
complimentary membership for children at qantas.com/kids
until December 31.
InBrief
● TAP IS offering value fares to Porto for a spring getaway, starting
from £120 return. The carrier flies from Gatwick to Porto 14 times
weekly. To book visit www.flytap.com or call 0345-601 0932.
● THOMAS COOK Airlines has confirmed its ongoing commitment
to Manchester, Stansted and East Midlands Airports through
extension of its agreements for a further five years at each airport.
To celebrate the commitment to Manchester Airport, the airline
has also announced new routes with two flights a week to both
Los Angeles and Boston from May 2016.
Bangkok Airways has joined oneworld’s Global Explorer roundthe-world fare programme as operating carrier only. It is the first
time that the carrier’s flights have been made available through a
round-the-world fare. Global Explorer offers simple and flexible
worldwide travel with prices based on the cabin class chosen and
the total distance travelled. For details visit www.bangkokair.com
Survey reveals higher level of interest
for in-flight connectivity in Europe
GOGO INC., an aero communications service provider,
recently conducted a global study on traveller interest in
in-flight connectivity and connectivity related products and
services.
The study revealed that interest in these products and
services is significantly higher in Europe and the Middle
East despite the fact that fewer connected aircraft are
operating in these regions compared to within the US.
The results found that 80% of air travellers in Europe
and the Middle East are interested in using in-flight Wi-Fi,
compared to 74% of US travellers and, when it comes to
wireless in-flight entertainment, 67% of travellers in the
Europe and Middle Eastern regions show a strong interest
compared to 59% in the US.
According to the survey, air travellers within Europe and
the Middle East are more likely to carry their own Wi-Fi
enabled devices on a plane and, in most countries within
the region, are more willing to pay for all in-flight services
when compared to travellers in the US.
● NORWEGIAN IS continuing to expand its long-haul network with
new direct routes. From November, the airline will launch a nonstop service between Gatwick and the Caribbean island of Puerto
Rico, and from this month, Pula in Croatia has been added as a
new destination from Gatwick. The airline is also adding more
weekly flights between Gatwick and New York.
● JET AIRWAYS has increased the number of codeshare flights it
offers with strategic partner, Etihad Airways, to include new
destinations in North America, Europe (Edinburgh) and Australia.
May 29 2015
15
S04b TB2905 2015 Pixmix_Showcase_Layout 1 27/05/2015 12:41 Page 16
eventbulletin
Travel Bulletin recently held an Airline Showcase event at the
Radisson Edwardian Blu in Manchester. Agents had the opportunity to
meet up with a variety of suppliers, enjoy a buffet evening meal plus
the chance to win a selection of prizes…
MANCHESTER
LUFTHANSA LIFT OFF…Paul Bullough (left) from Lufthansa Group
with Holiday Getaway agents Paul McMahon and Angela Lucas.
CANADIAN CHEERS…Kevin Rogers
(left) from Air Canada enjoys drinks
with Caroline Whitmore and Daniel
Baker from Egenzia.
AIRLINE APPETISERS…Agents from Kuoni
Travel catch up at the showcase. From the
left are Michelle Shore, Joyce Buxton and
David McKenzie.
LISTEN UP…Agents take note during one of
the evening’s many engaging presentations.
16
May 29 2015
CONDOR CONGRATS…Jill
Waite from Pole Travel
collects a prize from
Malcolm Aldcroft of Condor.
WINE TASTING....Matt Walder from Aegean is
pictured with Rebecca Eaton (left) from
Incorporate Travel Management and Debbie Reid
from Key Travel.
BINGO WINNER…Receiving a
prize from the evening’s bingo
competition is Anna Hope
(right) from Thomas Cook
Altrincham with Travel
Bulletin’s Gemma Reeve.
WINE WINNINGS…First prize in the
bingo game went to Fae Bowman
(right) from Bowman Travel
Services, who is pictured with
Gemma Reeve from Travel Bulletin.
WINNING SMILE…Jade Edwards from
STA Travel wins a prize from
Lufthansa’s Paul Bullough.
eventbulletin
GIFTING GOODIES…Lynda Betsch (left) from Aegean presents a
goody bag to winner Julie Healey from Prestbury Travel Group.
KOREAN KUDOS…Winner of Korean Air’s prize was Nuno
Martins (left) from Flight Centre Oxford Road, who is
pictured with the carrier’s Rob Brettell.
TRAVEL TREATS…Picking up her prize from Air
Canada’s Kevin Rogers is winner Victoria Costello
from Travel Counsellors.
IN THE BAG…Heidi Deverell from Prestbury
Travel Group picks up her prize from Keith
Harrison of Cathay Pacific.
ICE INCENTIVE…David McKenzie (left)
from Kuoni Travel collects his prize
from Icelandair’s Nick Beauchamp.
HIGH-FLYING HAMPERS…Daniel Baker
from Egenzia receives a hamper from
Jane Beeley of United Airlines.
HAVING A LAUGH…Denise Hodgson from
Red Carpet Travel has a chuckle with
Travel Bulletin’s Simon Eddolls.
CONSIDERING CONDOR…Agents are all
ears at Condor’s table.
May 29 2015
17
personalitybulletin
Neil Jones
UK account manager – New Orleans, Louisiana, Dallas
& Maverick Aviation, Travel & Tourism Marketing
At work
What other companies have you
previously worked for?
Virgin Holidays for the best part of ten years
and prior to that Ashdown Park Hotel in
Sussex for six years.
At home
What's your favourite
household gadget?
Sky+ Box, no question. It’s the best
invention in recent times!
What are your favourite TV
programmes?
Suits, Game of Thrones, Soccer Saturday,
Elementary – I’m a bit late to it, but really
into Prison Break right now!
Who does the cooking?
Me. I love to get in the kitchen if I have
time to prepare and cook.
What's a typical weekend
for you like?
Depends on the weather, winter indoors on
the sofa watching all my Sky+ recordings,
summer I have to be outdoors as much as
possible.
What's your guilty pleasure?
Quavers – nothing more to say on that.
What do you do to relax?
Go to the gym more often than not, there’s
no better stress relief! Or lie on a beach in
the Caribbean works kind of well on that
front!
If you could change one thing in
the industry what would it be?
APD and by change it I mean get rid or at
least bring in line with other countries and
apply fairly.
What personal item do you have
on your desk at work?
Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders Calendar.
What's the best thing about
your job?
Miss World type answer but getting to visit
amazing and diverse destinations and
working with AWESOME people – that’s
two, but hey I’m lucky obviously!
What's a typical day like?
There really is no such thing as a typical
day in representation apart from monthly
report time on the 10th & 11th! Otherwise
my day can be any or all of the following;
training sales agents, attending trade and
consumer shows, working on marketing
proposals, creating itineraries, product
planning with tour operator partners,
social media postings, planning or hosting
fam trips, attending industry events at cool
venues – tough life I know…and that’s
just the tip of the iceberg!
What's your favourite travel app?
My Delta Air Lines App. It lets me know
where I’ve been and where I’m going!
Who has been your inspiration in
the travel industry?
Angus Bond, a well-known and respected
man in the industry that gave me my first
opportunity to develop a career in travel
and all round good guy!
What was the last email
you received?
An email from Kathy at American Affair to
confirm New Orleans and Louisiana
training in September.
What skill are you most proud of?
Multi-tasking (yes males can do it!) it’s
essential when working for multiple
clients.
What do you love about the
travel industry?
A predominantly great bunch of people
that share a love for travel. Hey, none of
us do it because it’s going to make us
millionaires! Well unless your name is
Richard Branson or Willy Walsh I guess?!
At play
What music do you listen to?
My iTunes is pretty eclectic Blink 182 to Bob
Marley, Jamiroquai to Johnny Cash or
Professor Longhair to Passenger and
anything in-between – NO Heavy Metal
though thanks! Current favourite is Lindi
Ortega if you’re interested?
Where would you most like
to visit and why?
I can’t decide between South America or
Thailand, Cambodia & Vietnam – they’re
somewhat out of my English speaking
comfort zone and I’ve never been!
What is your best quality?
Generosity – I hope others would agree?
What's your favourite movie?
Depends on the mood but I can watch Fear
& Loathing in Las Vegas any time, it’s just
plain weird!
What's your favourite (non-work
related) website?
Sky Sports – no question! Football, F1, NFL
& Boxing all in one place!
Do you have any nicknames?
Far too many and very few appropriate for
polite company!
What's been your latest
DIY project?
Completely renovated my flat from top to
bottom; blood, sweat and tears but so
worth it all.
What's your most embarrassing
moment?
My 19th birthday in Ibiza and the rep and
my mates pushed me on stage and ripped
my clothes off me in a bar – BAD TIMES!
18
May 29 2015
What are your hobbies?
Going to the gym, football fanatic and not sure
it counts as a hobby, but going on holidays?!
If you could invent a new law,
what would it be?
This can get very political – which I won’t,
so how about everyone has to do at least
one quantifiable and entirely selfless act
each week?
S05 TB2905 2015 Italy_Layout 1 27/05/2015 11:01 Page 19
Create new opportunities for clients
by encouraging ‘Slow Travel’
italy
by ALESSANDRA SMITH, press
officer at the Italian National
Tourist Board
T
HIS YEAR is special for Italy as
Milan opens its doors this month
until the end of October for the
Universal Exhibition EXPO 2015
‘Feeding the Planet, Energy for Life’.
It will be a great challenge and a
great opportunity for Milan (and the
rest of Italy) as, during these six
months, the city will become a
showcase for the largest global event
dedicated to food and the concerns
and responsibilities related to food.
Culinary delights
The event aims to answer some of the
most important issues concerning
food production/consumption in a
growing world: from sustainability to
zero-travel food, from obesity and
starvation to food culture and
traditions, and hopefully create a
legacy on which to work after EXPO
concludes.
Some 145 countries will participate
with their pavillions and the best of
their technology, and it is expected
that more than 20 million visitors will
make it to the 1.1million sq.m of
exhibition space. EXPO2015 will also
offer a big party with thousands of
events that will involve sensory
itineraries for visitors at the National
pavillions and dedicated clusters, as
well as plenty of concerts, exhibitions,
events in Milan and throughout Italy.
For more information see
www.verybello.it,
www.expo2015.org/en/learn-more and
www.wonderfulexpo2015.com
The theme of EXPO2015 fits well
and seemingly into the Italian culture
that traditionally pays a lot of attention
to the quality of its food and wines and
favours a less hurried pace of life. The
Slow Food Movement was born in Italy,
in Piedmont in the 1980s, and it is now
an international movement that
defends regional traditions, good food
and a slow pace of life, and recognises
a strong connection between plate,
planet, people, politics and culture.
Slow down & get more done
Fired by the success and support for
Slow Food, the Italians set about
initiating the Slow Cities Movement
and Slow Travel. Slow cities are
characterised by a way of life that
supports people to live slow. Traditions
and traditional ways of doing things
are valued. These cities stand up
against the fast-lane, homogenised
world so often seen in other cities
throughout the world. Slow cities have
less traffic, less noise and fewer
crowds, and towns in Italy have
banded together to form an
organisation and call themselves the
Slow Cities Movement.
One of the defining elements of
Slow Travel is the opportunity to
become part of local life and to
connect to a place and its people. Slow
travel is also about connection to
culture and it’s not restricted to urban
settings. Many slow travel operators
offer self-catering accommodation in
rural areas. One of the pleasures of
slow travel is the slow and thorough
exploration of the local area. Guests
can check out local markets and
shops, savour café culture and do
what the locals do, not only what the
guidebooks say. Savouring the
unexpected is also encouraged;
delayed trains or missed bus
connections can create new
opportunities.
Carlo Petrini, founder of the Slow
Food Movement - September 2008,
said: “We have lost our sense of time.
We believe that we can add meaning
to life by making things go faster. We
have an idea that life is short and that
we must go faster to fit everything in.
But life is long. The problem is that we
don’t know how to spend our time
wisely.”
A land of culture, art, design and
history - with 50 UNESCO World
Heritage Sites, Italy has more than any
other country on the World Heritage
List. Guests can start discovering this
with a virtual journey at www.italia.it
A site to see
Visitors can also discover thousands of
years of heritage at our archaeological
sites and in the many internationally
renowned museums of our cities; feel
art become alive at the Venice
Biennale, with its design and
contemporary art focus, or in one of
our many opera houses, like La Scala,
La Fenice, Verona’s Arena; meet the
best in international writing at
Mantova’s Literary Festival, one of the
Literary Festivals organised in Italy, or
get a chance to see films and actors at
Venice Film Festival; check the best in
Italian design and fashion in Milan and
Florence; and hire a costume and go
to a Masked Ball or stroll through
Venice during carnival. These are just
a few examples of all that Italy can
offer to the discerning traveller. And
when a break from the art scene is
called for, visitors can indulge in some
retail therapy.
Director’s choice
With about 8,000km of coast, dramatic
mountains and gentle hills, it’s no surprise
that Italy features regularly in films and TV
programmes. Just recently, the Inspector
Montalbano TV series reached large
audiences in the UK and sparked a keen
interest in the areas of Sicily and of the
province of Ragusa featured in the series.
Other recently broadcasted TV
programmes such ITV’s ‘Gino’s Italian
Escapes’, presented by Gino d’Acampo, and
the BBC’s ‘The Trip to Italy’, with Rob
Brydon and Steve Coogan, have proved
popular with UK audiences and have
inspired tourists to travel to Italy.
May 29 2015
19
italy
Year-round city breaks from Inghams
INGHAMS HAS added two new all-year round city breaks for this
year.
A three-night stay in Naples leads in at £459 including breakfast
accommodation at the four-star Hotel Mercure Centro Angioino,
BA flights and transfers.
A three-night stay in Palermo costs from £489 including
breakfast accommodation at the four-star Hotel Plaza Opera,
easyJet flights and transfers.
The operator has also introduced three new island getaways to
Elba, Capri and Ischia, with prices leading in at £875 for seven
nights’ half-board stay at the four-star Hotel Regina Cristina in
Capri. The price includes BA flights from Gatwick and transfers.
Meanwhile, a selection of new properties have also been added
including four hotels in Santa Margherita Ligure and Rapallo in the
Ligurian Riviera; three hotels in Viareggio and San Vincenzo on the
Tuscan Coast; several new Tuscany villas and apartments in rural
locations; and new Explorer Holidays including the new ‘Glorious
Lakes & Gardens’ holiday which offers a seven-night tour of Lake
Garda, Lake Como, Lake Maggiore and Lake Orta.
The company has also added several twin-centre options to link
mountain and lake resorts such as the new Lake Garda Highlights
itinerary featuring South and North Lake Garda. Desenzano is the
base for the first four nights before guests transfer by leisurely lake
steamer to Riva at the northern tip of the lake to spend a week in a
three or four-star hotel.
Saturday flights are available via Verona from £999 per person
including transfers, a full day tour of the Dolomites and Venice,
plus a half day wine-tasting excursion.
For more information see www.inghams.co.uk
BERGAMO
FLY FROM
YOUR
LOCAL
AIRPORT
PRIVATE
TRANSFERS
INCLUDED
ITALY
Lake Maggiore
5+ Grand
Hotel Majestic
5 NIGHTS FOR
THE PRICE OF 4
For stays until 17 Oct.
FLY DIRECT TO
MILAN FROM
12 UK AIPORTS
Any airline,
any duration
Call 0800 008 7288
5030
20
www.classic-collection.co.uk
May 29 2015
which is located in the heart of Lombardy in northern Italy, is
highlighting a range of events and festivals taking place this
summer. They include the reopening of Carrara (pictured) with
masterpieces by Lotto, Rubens, Botticelli, Tiziano, Canaletto,
Moroni and Pisanello; Palma il Vecchio exhibition, available at
Gamec Gallery until June 21; and an Expogelato event, which is on
until June 30 and offers workshops, events and tastings that will
reveal the history, recipes and the magic of a food that appeals to
all generations.
Rome-antic break from Jet2.com
JET2.COM is putting on an additional flight to Rome for
England rugby union fans wanting to see their team take
on Italy in the Six Nations Championships next Valentine’s
Day.
Due to the anticipated high demand, the extra flight will
allow fans to take a romantic weekend whilst also seeing
their sporting heroes on Italian soil. It will depart from
Manchester Airport on February 12, 2016 at 09:55 and
return at 14:55 on February 15. Fans can also fly from
Manchester to Rome at the earlier time of 08:25 on
February 12, returning at 13:25 on February 15.
Steve Heapy, the company’s CEO, said: “Rome is one of
our most popular destinations for a romantic Valentine’s
break, so we’re expecting a high demand from England
fans planning to combine a spot of rugby with romance. We
always want to make sure our customers get to enjoy the
things that matter the most, so this additional flight will
ensure that they experience a memorable time, hopefully
with a win for England!”
To book or for more information see www.jet2.com
W
&
ϳ
>
italy
‘Wine Trail’ break from Châteaux & Hôtels Collection
CHÂTEAUX & HÔTELS
COLLECTION has launched a wine
trail break across a selection of
hotels in France and Italy to give
wine lovers the opportunity to
immerse themselves in the art and
traditions of the vineyard in
stunning locations.
The package includes a
minimum one night’s breakfast
stay, a complimentary bottle of
regional wine, a visit to a wine
cellar or vineyard, at least one
oenological activity such as a
tasting or workshop; and an
optional dinner.
The break costs from £134 for
one night based on two sharing,
excluding dinner.
www.chateauxhotels.co.uk
H
29
The Sicily Specialist
WƌĞƐƟŐĞ,ŽůŝĚĂǇƐĨŽƌƚŚĞďĞƐƚƉƌŝĐĞƐŝŶ^ŝĐŝůǇΘĞŽůŝĂŶ/ƐůĂŶĚƐ
&ĂŶƚĂƐƟĐŽīĞƌƐʹĨƌĞĞŶŝŐŚƚƐ͕ĨƌĞĞŵĞĂůƐ͕ĨƌĞĞŐŽůĨΘƌŽŽŵƵƉŐƌĂĚĞƐ
ϳŶŝŐŚƚƉƌŝĐĞƐĨƌŽŵ£398ƉĞƌƉĞƌƐŽŶĂƚƚŚĞ,ŽƚĞůůDĂĚĂƌŝŐŝŶĂƐƚĞůůĂŵŵĂƌĞĞů'ŽůĨŽ͘
ŶǇŇŝŐŚƚ͕ĂŶǇĂŝƌƉŽƌƚ͕ĂŶǇůĞŶŐƚŚŽĨƐƚĂǇ͘
>ŽǀĞƚŽ^ŚŽƉǀŽƵĐŚĞƌƐĨŽƌĞĂĐŚďŽŽŬŝŶŐŵĂĚĞ͘
WƌĞƐƟŐĞ,ŽůŝĚĂǇƐŽŶϬϭϰϮϱϰϴϬϰϬϬ
ǁǁǁ͘ƉƌĞƐƟŐĞŚŽůŝĚĂǇƐ͘ĐŽ͘ƵŬ
italy
Western & Oriental expands specialist Italy Collection with new destinations
Western & Oriental has announced an expansion to its
Italy programme, which now offers an even more in-depth
collection of tailor-made escapes across the country.
Incorporating bespoke itineraries, new rail journeys,
multi-centres and the operator’s Italian Intelligentsia
excursions, the new collection also encompasses several
new destinations for the operator relatively unknown to
the UK holiday market, including the Valpolicella wine
region and San Teodoro in Sardinia.
Secrets of Italy option from Trafalgar
TRAFALGAR HAS
added a new
seven-day ‘Secrets
of Italy’ itinerary
that explores the
destination’s
Piedmont region,
famed for its
antipasti, amaretti
and wines.
Guests will
begin in Milan
before taking a
scenic drive
through the Aosta
Valley to reach the
Alba Region for a
four-night stay in
Pollenzo.
Highlights
include visiting the
medieval town of
Cherasco, learning
about the winemaking process, a
tour of Asti and a
Be My Guest
experience at a
local family run
wine estate.
Guests will also
have the chance to
take an excursion
to Turin for a
sightseeing tour of
the city with a local
specialist before
heading back to
Milan.
Prices start from
£1,254 per person
and include six
nights’ breakfast
accommodation,
sightseeing and
the services of a
travel director
throughout.
For more
information see
www.trafalgar.com
As an example of prices, a seven-night alpine rail
adventure ‘The Scenic Route to Lake Como’ takes guests
through the snow-capped Swiss and Italian Alps from
Zurich to Lake Como.
Prices start from £1,625 per person based on two
sharing on a bed-and-breakfast basis, including
accommodation, private transfers and flights.
For more information see www.westernoriental.com or call
020-7666 1234.
Riviera’s Rome option from £559
RIVIERA TRAVEL is featuring a five-day escorted tour to
Rome.
The tour is split into two days to offer visitors a more
relaxed experience.
Prices start from £559 per person including flights,
transfers, breakfast accommodation in a centrally located
four-star hotel, guided excursions and the services of a
tour manager.
For details see www.rivieratravel.co.uk/agents
InBrief
● CHIESA DEL CARMINE is offering a 20% discount on all
villa stays taken by June 20. The villa, which sleeps up to
14, is offering a special weekly rental rate of £3,969,
discounted from £4,871 - a saving of more than £900. A
complimentary four-course taster menu is also offered on
arrival, and paired with Chiesa del Carmine wine, grown
on the estate. See www.chiesadelcarmine.com
● A SEVEN-NIGHT ‘ITALIAN EXPRESSO’ is being offered by
Contiki which offers a short, strong hit of all things Italian.
Guests can walk in the footsteps of Roman Emperors,
throw their three coins in the Trevi fountain and tour the
streets of Venice. Prices start from £855 per person
including breakfast accommodation, three regional
dinners, sightseeing and the services of a trip manager.
See www.contiki.com
● THE REGION OF EMILIA ROMAGNA has launched a 2015
campaign to promote the Via Emilia, the Roman road
running to Milan through the sunny seaside resort of
Rimini, through the history-packed Piacenza area;
stopping off in the picturesque towns and cities of Cesena,
Faenza, Forlì, Bologna, Modena, Reggio Emilia and Parma
along the way. From the start to the end of the Via Emilia,
travellers can expect to experience a series of diverse and
unique itineraries, from exploring the home of the fast-car
Ferrari brand in Modena to sampling Parmigiano
Reggiano in its original birthplace in Reggio Emilia or
Parma, visiting the oldest university in the world in
Bologna, as well as appreciating UNESCO world heritage
sights along the way.
22
May 29 2015
TRAVELSPHERE
has introduced 'Secret Lakes of Italy', a tour of six relatively
unknown, tranquil lakes, from Lake Levico to Lake Caldaro. Prices
for the eight-day escorted holiday start from £899 per person. For
details see www.travelsphere.co.uk or call 0800-987 5110.
S06 TB2905 2015 Winter Sports_Layout 1 27/05/2015 12:39 Page 23
wintersports
BALKAN HOLIDAYS
...is holding prices for skiing and snowboarding holidays in Bulgaria at the
same levels as last year with a lead-in of £244 per person for seven
nights in Pamporovo including flights. The operator is now taking
bookings for wintersport holidays in Bulgaria, Slovenia and Romania.
New for 2015/16 is free night skiing and boarding in Pamporovo, Bulgaria,
staying at the Hotel Perelik; free lift passes and 50% off full ski or
snowboard packs in Borovets, Bulgaria; pre-book an adult lift pass and
get a second free in Bansko, Bulgaria; free ski/board storage in Bansko;
50% off ski and board equipment carriage on all the operator’s charter
flights to Sofia; 15% off ski/snowboard services in Pamporovo; and 20%
off lift passes in Kranjska Gora, Slovenia. Early booking discounts of up to
£151 per couple are available, as well as a 5% loyalty discount for
previous customers, free child places, single parent savings, group
discounts and free luggage allowance.
For details see www.balkanholidays.co.uk/agents
or call 0845-130 1114.
New 'Winter Spirit' collection from Ramblers Worldwide offers range of activities
FOLLOWING THE success of its last
'Winter Spirit' programme, Ramblers
Worldwide Holidays has expanded its
latest collection including snowshoeing,
cross-country skiing, winter walking,
sightseeing and Christmas markets.
As an example of prices, a one-week
Austrian Lake District Winter Sport
Adventure, which includes snowshoeing
and cross-country skiing in Austria's
Salzkammergut region, leads in at
£1,085 per person.
Highlights include the ascent (whilst
snowshoeing) to the Hochmuehlech
with panoramic views over the
Dachstein and Stoderzinken; cross
country skiing around Lake Odensee;
the scenery of the Kampl summit and a
stay at Apparthotel Montana in Bad
Mitterndorf with its spa and wellness
facilities.
The price includes flights, transfers,
half-board accommodation, the services
of a local instructor, hire of
snowshoeing and cross-country ski
equipment, Salzkammergut Adventure
Card (offering a price reduction on 130
attractions in the region) and the
services of a tour leader. Departures
are from January 23, 2016.
For details or to book see
www.ramblersholidays.co.uk or call
01707-331133.
Inghams 2015/16 preview programme offers 91 resorts across nine countries
INGHAMS’ NEW 2015/16
preview programme
features 91 resorts in nine
countries and a new Chalet
Hotel in Tignes, in the
Espace Killy ski area.
The Chalet Hotel Curling
sleeps up to 62 guests and
is located in Val Claret,
Tignes, a short walk to the
nearest lifts. It is home to
the operator’s new bar, the
TiBar, already making an
impact on the après-ski
scene, with live music and
sports most night.
Prices lead in at £535 per
person including flights,
transfers and seven nights’
catered board for a
December departure.
Also new is a train service
to the Alps, providing a full
eight days’ skiing in a one
week holiday. Guests depart
on Friday night from London
St. Pancras, then return
overnight on the following
Saturday. Arriving in the
resort at breakfast time,
guests can ski as soon as
they arrive and on the
second Saturday, whilst
other guests are on their
way back to the airport, rail
guests have another full day
on the slopes, as the return
train does not leave until
late evening. The operator
provides eight days’
ski/board and boot hire for
the price of six, and a
seven-day lift pass for the
price of six days. Prices are
from £455 including train
travel, transfers and seven
nights’ catered board
departing in December and
staying at Chalet Côte
d’Arlin in Méribel.
www.inghams.co.uk
Ski Total adds catered ski chalets in the Three Valleys with prices from £479
AT THE heart of the Three Valleys ski
area is the resort of La Tania, where Ski
Total has added two catered ski chalets.
The resort is positioned half way
between Courchevel and Méribel and
was originally built for the 1992
Albertville Winter Olympics. It has since
developed into a full ski resort whilst
still retaining its village charm and
atmosphere, with access to the pistes.
Chalet James is in an ideal location
just next to the slopes which means that
visitors can ski directly down to the lifts.
The chalet is wooden-clad, set amongst
the trees and features six bedrooms
with en suite facilities, many with a
balcony. Prices lead in at £469 per
person.
Meanwhile, Chalet Beau Vallon is
located a snowball’s throw from the
main piste, which means that guests can
almost ski to and from the door. The
property offers six bedrooms, all with en
suite facilities, with prices from £479.
Prices are based on two adults
sharing and include flights, transfers,
free Wi-Fi and seven nights’ catered
chalet accommodation including
breakfast, afternoon tea and a fourcourse evening meal with
complimentary wine.
www.skitotal.com or call 01483-791933.
May 29 2015
23
S06 TB2905 2015 Winter Sports_Layout 1 27/05/2015 12:39 Page 24
wintersports
Neilson expands Mountain Collection portfolio & offers new guiding service for 2015/16
NEILSON HAS made some new
additions to its ski programme for
2015/16, with new properties opening
within its Mountain Collection portfolio
and an inclusive Mountain Experts ski
guiding and coaching service.
The company has recently issued its
2015/16 Ski & Board brochure, which
features winter properties across
France, Austria, Andorra, Italy,
Bulgaria and Spain, and includes a
range of offers.
The Mountain Experts service offers
free guiding and coaching to Mountain
Collection holidays and is available at
any of Neilson-run hotels or chalets
where, throughout the week, guests
can enjoy ski guiding around the slopes
and take advantage of free coaching
with qualified ski or board instructors.
Meanwhile, new hotels and chalets
in the Mountain Collection include
Hotel Escapade in Alpe D’Huez, France;
Chalet des Cimes in Belle Plagne,
France; and a selection of chalets in
Andorra including Motxo and Casale in
El Tarter.
Also new for 2015 is Hotel Turquoise
which was added to the collection in
February. Located directly on the piste
in Belle Plagne and sitting within the
Paradiski area, the property offers skiin, ski-out access as well as views
across the surrounding mountains
from all 25 rooms.
Set at 2,050m and completely car-
free, Belle Plagne is a popular choice
with families and beginners and offers
access to 50 miles of cross country
slopes, nursery slopes, six children’s
snowy play areas and the Bellecote
glacier.
New offers include a two-for-one lift
pass offer on all Neilson-run hotels
and chalets for bookings made by
August 31; a guaranteed £50 saving
per booking on all holidays booked by
August 31; and up to 50% off kids’
clubs on selected dates at Hotel
Aalborg and Hotel Del Clos for
bookings made by August 31.
www.neilson.co.uk or
call 0333-014 3350.
SIMPLY SWEDEN has launched a new
three-day Husky Expedition –
Finnmark, which puts guests firmly in
the driving seat as they explore the
wilderness landscape of the Finnmark
Mountain Plateau in Northern Norway
leading their own team of huskies.
Guests will make a steep ascent
along the Alta river, through
mountains and past frozen lakes to
reach Finnmarksvidda (Finnmark’s
Mountain Plateau), a wild snow-desert
covering 22,000sq.km, including two
national parks – Øvre Anarjohka and
Stabbursdalen.
Days are spent driving the huskies,
stopping for al-fresco lunches cooked
the traditional way on an open fire.
Accommodation during the expedition
is in simple, rustic cabins in remote
locations, traditionally used by the
nomadic Sami and workers in the
mountains. The holiday is designed for
travellers looking for a hands-on,
back-to-basics wilderness experience
and who appreciate the outdoor way of
life in remote locations.
Prices lead in at £1,755 per person
including flights, transfers, two nights’
image credit: Bjorn Klauer www.nordnorge.com
Three-day husky adventure from Simply Sweden for £1,755 with flights
half-board at Stengelsegårdenis
Lodge, a two-day expedition with two
nights’ breakfast stay in a mountain
cabin, two wilderness lunches and
suitable outer clothing.
Next year’s departures are from
January 12-16 (Northern Lights
expedition); January 18-22 (Northern
Lights expedition); and April 18-22
(spring expedition).
To book call 01427-700115 or visit
www.simplysweden.co.uk
New mountain developments in Colorado open up new opportunities
SKIERS AND riders heading to Aspen Snowmass next season
can look forward to some on-mountain improvements this
summer at a cost of nearly $8million. They include a faster
chairlift, more snowmaking and additional tree skiing.
Aspen Skiing Company will replace and realign the High
Alpine lift on Snowmass with a new high-speed quad, cutting
ride time in half from 11 minutes down to just over five
minutes.
Snowmass’ general manager, Steve Sewell, said: “With the
realignment and the additional trail work and glading, our
24
May 29 2015
guests will have a vastly improved experience in the High
Alpine pod on Snowmass.
“The new alignment will allow guests to ski from Rock
Island, AMF and the Cirque without dropping to the lower
mountain to access the High Alpine area. Additionally, skiers
and riders can now easily access Upper Green Cabin without a
long flat traverse, which is especially important for
snowboarders. This will improve the upper mountain
circulation. There is no change in access to the Hanging Valley
and no change in the uphill lift capacity.”
S07 TB2905 2015 Indian Ocean_Layout 1 27/05/2015 12:37 Page 25
india&indianocean
Island inspired
indulgence at The
Sun Siyam Iru Fushi
The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi in
the Maldives is launching
new experiences at The
Spa by Thalgo.
With a host of new sensory
and signature spa
journeys, the property
offers a holistic and
personalised approach to
wellbeing for all guests.
As an example, a new
Indoceane Ritual offers a
sea salt, cassonade sugar
and essential oil scrub,
followed by an indulgent
milk bath, Ayurvedic
Massage and a body wrap.
Prices lead in at £167 for
105 minutes.
Alternatively, a Chocolate
Delight begins with an
invigorating body scrub
before taking a dip in a
chocolate bath and sipping
a creamy chocolate
milkshake.
Guests can continue the
celebration of all things
chocolate with a soothing
massage that uses cocoa
butter to enrich the skin,
with prices from £150 for
90 minutes.
DUSIT THANI MALDIVES
has launched the Maldives' first Free-Diving Centre. Free-diving is a form of underwater diving that
relies on the diver's ability to hold their breath until resurfacing without the use of scuba gear. The
centre offers courses to suit all levels. For details visit www.dusit.com/dusit-thani/en/maldives.html
Mauritius launches low season initiative to drive family bookings
THE MAURITIUS Tourism Promotion Authority (MTPA) has launched a new campaign,
Family Fun Adventure, signifying a new strategic direction for the destination.
The latest initiative aims to promote the low season by looking beyond the beach to
identify attractions and facilities that appeal to families. A dedicated website has been
created for international users to access offers of up to 30% off and information on
accommodation and activities suitable for the family sector.
In the past, the family sector has been overlooked with many Brits choosing closer
European destinations for their summer getaway. This is largely owing to a lack of
awareness, which is why the campaign comes at a crucial time to help educate consumers
and travel agents alike to show them the potential in Mauritius.
The website acts as a one-stop-shop for information on sports (land and water-based),
places of interest, accommodation and car rentals. With access to detailed descriptions,
images and videos, it can be treated as a booking aid to help inspire and create itineraries.
The site is supported by a series of tactical offers, exclusive to the tourism board with
some discounts as large as 30%-40%.
Offers include 30% off all spa treatments at Surya Ayurvedic Spa; half price on a deep
sea fishing experience with the opportunity to see dolphins, sperm whales, humpback
whales and the rare whale shark; 20% off quad biking at the Domaine de l'Étoile nature
reserve; and 20% off sea kayaking.
Booking information is listed separately for each partner as they cannot be made
directly on the site.
For more information visit www.familyfunadventure.mu and www.tourism-mauritius.mu
Sands Suites Resort & Spa in Mauritius welcomes all-suite redesign
SANDS SUITES Resort & Spa in Mauritius has been
redesigned to offer an all-suite resort.
Guests are now able to experience zip-wire trips to
the rain forests and waterfalls; walk with lions in the
safari park; quad bike through the banana, tea and
sugar plantations; rock-climb; go horse-riding; and
explore the food markets and local restaurants.
Virgin Holidays is offering a seven-night package
staying in a superior suite on a half-board basis at the
resort for £1,039 per person, including flights from
London based on a June departure, subject to
availability.
For more information visit www.virginholidays.co.uk or
call 0844-557 3875.
May 29 2015
25
india&indianocean
CARIBTOURS
is offering a seven-night bed-and-breakfast package from £1,679 per person at Coco Bodu Hithi, Maldives. It includes flights from Gatwick
and speedboat transfers and is based on travel in July with two adults sharing an Island Villa.
To book call 0207-751 0660 or visit www.caribtours.co.uk
Sunset Faraway Holidays marks 35
years with largest product launch
SUNSET FARAWAY HOLIDAYS is celebrating its 35th
anniversary and, to mark the occasion, is offering a range of
four- and five-star options this summer with savings of up to
£2,500 in destinations including Mauritius, Maldives and the
Seychelles.
For £4,500, a family of four can stay a week in Mauritius on
half-board, with larger discounts available when booked in
advance.
As an example, a family of four can stay a week at
Atmosphere Kanifushi in the Maldives on half-board for
£7,999, offering a total saving of £2,900 with the whole family
flying for free and kids paying nothing.
New to the operator’s collection is The Westin Turtle Bay
Mauritius, located on the northern tip of the island in a Natural
Marine park where guests staying in exclusively contracted
Beachfront rooms can benefit from privileges such as
discounts on spa, a private dinner on the beach and free resort
credit.
A seven-night, half-board stay is offered from £1,299 per
person with a 50% reduction in a beachfront room with Air
Mauritius including transfers and airport taxes.
The operator is also offering free weddings at a range of
four-star resorts and Laguna Beach Resort with a free
upgrade from superior to deluxe rooms, private transfers with
lounge pass at Gatwick for seven nights’ all-inclusive from
£1,399 for travel by September 30.
Oberoi offers ‘Exotic Vacations’ summer special
OBEROI HOTELS & Resorts is offering guests the opportunity to
extend their stay without overstretching the budget with the
launch of its ‘Exotic Vacations’ offer, giving guests the chance to
receive savings of 50% over peak season prices.
The offer is available until September 30 with a minimum stay
of six nights and costs £205 per night including taxes.
Also included is accommodation in a premier room on double
occupancy, breakfast, daily yoga sessions, 25% savings on spa
treatments and transfers between the airport or railway station
and hotel.
For reservations or further information email
[email protected] or visit www.oberoihotels.com
Baros Maldives offers Coral Gardening Escape
THE FIVE-STAR
Baros Maldives
is offering a
four-day Breeze
of Baros coral
gardening
experience,
concentrating on
the underwater
garden
treasures of the
Indian Ocean.
Located on its
own private
island, the
resort’s resident
marine biologist
will take guests
underwater to
explore the
marine life. A
snorkelling tour
and coral
gardening
workshop will
ensure guests
learn how the
plants and
marine life play
such a pivotal
role for the
protection and
survival of the
coasts from the
open sea and
storms of the
low lying
islands. Guests
will plant coral
and every six
months an
update on the
coral's progress
will be sent.
The package
includes a
welcome bottle
of sparkling
wine in the villa
upon arrival, a
private house
reef tour,
massage,
traditional
Nooma Dhoni
cruise with
Champagne and
canapés, private
fishing by
twilight to catch
dinner for one
evening at the
Cayenne Grill,
daily breakfast
and transfers by
speedboat.
The four-night
package costs
£1,640 per
person based on
two sharing a
deluxe villa for a
June departure.
For details visit
www.baros.com
‘Surf & Turf’ holiday from Heritage Resorts
HERITAGE RESORTS in Mauritius has introduced a new
Surf and Turf Holiday so guests can experience the
abundance of land and water activities available on the
Domaine de Bel Ombre.
The package costs from £1,000 per person for a
seven-night stay on half-board at the five-star
Heritage Le Telfair and includes kite surfing, quadbiking, stand-up paddle boarding, golf lessons, tai-chi,
wellness walks with yoga, a speed boat trip around the
lagoon with snorkelling, a segway adventure, mountain
biking and a beachside massage in the water at
sunset.
For more information visit www.heritageresorts.mu
May 29 2015
27
india&indianocean
MMPRC announces 8% increase in UK visitors & new hotel developments
MALDIVES MARKETING & PR Corporation (MMPRC) has
announced an increase in visitor arrivals from the UK,
with the latest figures revealing an 8% increase in UK
tourists during the first three months of this year.
This equates to 25,158 UK tourists visiting the
Maldives compared to 23,297 in 2014.
In addition, the Maldives will also be expanding its
tourism infrastructure during 2015, including new
hotel developments and the introduction of a new
luxury seaplane transfer from Male to Dhonakulhi
Island.
Mohamed Adam, deputy managing director of the
cooperation, said: “We’re very pleased to see an
increase in visitors from the UK and that the Maldives
is still one of the UK’s favourite holiday destinations.
With our tourism offering continuing to expand and the
destination celebrating its 50th anniversary of
Independence this year in July, we are confident the
Maldives will continue to perform well during 2015 and
look forward to welcoming more visitors from the UK.”
Deccan Dreams offers new visitor experiences in new Karnataka programme
DECCAN DREAMS has launched a
new programme of holidays in India’s
Karnataka region for gap year
students and older visitors, offering
opportunities to become involved with
local people, their culture and
lifestyles.
For 'gappers' visiting the state for a
month or more, the operator has set
up various projects to assist
communities - from rural health care
programmes to organic farming.
During the work experience, students
meet artisan families and can study
woodcrafts, pottery, weaving, folk
dancing and music. Prices lead in at
£42 per person, per night for fullboard accommodation, airport and
local transfers and sightseeing with
guides, including a jeep safari to a
tiger reserve. The minimum group size
Mysore Palace,
Karnataka
is ten, with a minimum stay of 15 days.
For senior visitors the operator is
offering 15 days staying with Indian
families and participating fully in their
daily lives. Accommodation is offered
in hotels and prices are charged
according to the tailor-made
requirements of guests.
On the trail at Silhouette Island with Hilton Seychelles Labriz Resort & Spa
HILTON SEYCHELLES Labriz
Resort & Spa has teamed
up with the Island
Conservation Society to
create trails for guests to
explore the unspoilt nature
of Silhouette Island, led by
expert guides.
Guests can choose from
four different hiking trails
taking them to various areas
of the island, each allowing
for diverse experiences from sweeping panoramic
vistas across the Indian
Ocean to exploration of the
plateaus home to wild giant
tortoises.
As an example, a
Silhouette Native Plants Trail
winds through a combination
of natural ecosystems and
botanical gardens. The
objective of the project is to
allow native plants like the
iconic Coco de-Mer and the
rare Palmiste to recolonize
28
the area, recreating what
Silhouette may have looked
like to its first settlers. The
forest restoration is expected
to benefit native fauna
including birds, reptiles,
invertebrates and some
critically endangered
species.
May 29 2015
Claus Steiner, cluster
general manager for the
resort, said: "We want to
encourage our guests to
explore the real, natural
Seychelles, through
experiencing the dramatic
beauty of Silhouette Island
and discovering the amazing
variety of endemic flora and
fauna. The nature trails are
the perfect opportunity for
guests to immerse
themselves in another
world."
For more information visit
www.hiltonsey
chelleslabriz.com
india&indianocean
Uniworld launches India itineraries in 2016
preview brochure
UNIWORLD BOUTIQUE RIVER Cruise Collection has released its
2016 Preview Boutique River Cruises and Journeys Brochure with
the introduction of India to the portfolio.
The line’s new itinerary down the Ganges, India’s Golden
Triangle & the Sacred Ganges, travels from New Delhi to Kolkata
and commences on January 9.
The 13-day river cruise comprises five nights at three Oberoi
Hotels & Resorts in New Delhi, Agra and Jaipur, before flying to
Kolkata where guests embark on a seven-night cruise on the new
Ganges Voyager II.
To celebrate, the company is offering agents the opportunity to
win an Indian dinner for their agency up to the value of £250 plus a
luxury L’Occitane gift bag to five runners up. For the chance to win,
agents should email the name of the line’s new itinerary to India,
along with their name, address and ABTA number to
[email protected]
In addition, couples who book and pay a deposit by July 31 can
save up to £1,200 as part of the operator’s early booking savings
option.
For details visit www.uniworldcruises.co.uk or call 0808-168 9110.
New 15-day Ganges river cruise
from Insider Journeys from £4,351
INSIDER JOURNEYS has added a new luxury river cruise in
India.
The 15-day ‘Ganges Discovery Voyage’ gives customers
the opportunity to discover life along the Ganges - sailing
on the Ganges Voyager I, an all-suite vessel that features a
British-colonial design and modern facilities.
The itinerary takes guests through Calcutta and rural
countryside villages on the lower Ganges to visit places
rarely seen by travellers, before flying to spiritual Varanasi
and continuing to the Golden Triangle with a visit to the Taj
Mahal.
Prices start from £4,351 per person excluding
international flights.
OPENING IN November, The Fort Bazaar is an 18-room boutique
hotel located in the centre of Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage
site in Sri Lanka. The hotel has been designed to welcome both
guests and walk-in visitors for spa and dining experiences.
For more information email [email protected]
india&indianocean
InBrief
We asked our staff the
following question this week:
Who's your favourite TV
presenter?
Publisher: Jeanette Ratcliffe
[email protected]
Editor: Lauretta Wright
[email protected]
Professor Lord Robert Winston (or Stephen Mulhern for
comedy value)
Editorial Assistant: Adam Potter
[email protected]
David Attenborough
Contributing Editor: Paul Scudamore
[email protected]
Alex Jone
Sales Director: Simon Eddolls
[email protected]
TV presenter - Nick Knowles. Birthday party host - Bill
Coad
Advertisement Manager: Tim Podger
[email protected]
Stephen Fry
Account Manager: Bill Coad
[email protected]
● THE NEWLY-opened Wine Boutique at MAIA Luxury Resort & Spa
Seychelles is offering guests access to more than 300 vintages from
across the globe. Guests can select a bottle with the help of the
resort’s Sommelier for bespoke tasting sessions.
●ONYX HOSPITALITY Group has unveiled its second OZO property in
Kandy. The 122-room property is running a special opening offer of
US$99 per night (approximately £65). It includes breakfast, an upgrade
to the next room category (subject to availability), early check-in and
late check-out and is valid until for stays until July 31. Visit
www.ozohotels.com
● RUGBYTOTS PLAY sessions have become a permanent fixture in the
children’s activities at The Residence Mauritius, offering children aged
two-seven the opportunity to learn rugby skills on the beach.
Turquoise Holidays is offering a free second room for children and two
free nights, as well as a 30% discount at the hotel for seven nights
from £4,499 per family. It includes a half-board stay, private transfers
and direct flights with Air Mauritius for travel until September 30. See
www.turquoiseholidays.co.uk or call 0149-467 8400.
●THE SHANTI Maurice in Mauritius is giving holidaymakers the chance
to book one suite and receive a second suite free for kids. The deal
offers a saving of £3,800 and a seven-night, half-board stay leads in at
£6,799 per family of four including private transfers, flights with
Emirates from Heathrow, a family gourmet picnic lunch with a bottle
of wine and a 50 euro resort credit. Call 0149-467 8400 for details.
● GUESTS STAYING at the Velassaru in Male can now enjoy their own
pamper package at the property’s spa. Maldivian Men consists of a
lagoon coral scrub, botanical facial and includes a sports massage to
increase muscle flexibility and stimulate the natural healing process.
Johnathan Ross
Account Manager: Matt Gill
[email protected]
Marketing Assistant: Gemma Reeve
[email protected]
THE
CASA COLOMBO COLLECTION
in Mirissa has been added to the Sri Lanka Collection and, as an introductory
offer, the six-suite boutique hotel is currently offering a ‘four nights for the
price of three’ deal until the end of June.
Paddy McGuinness
Senior Designer: Lee Telot
[email protected]
Charlie Brooker
Assistant Designer: Tom Davies
[email protected]
Rachel Riley
Production: Charlie Burns
[email protected]
Charlie Brooker
Travel Bulletin is published by
Alain Charles Publishing (Travel) Ltd University House, 11-13 Lower Grosvenor Place, London,
SW1W 0EX, Tel: 020-7834 6661
Printed by: Buxton Press
Subscriptions are £125 p.a. £195 overseas
ISSN: 0956-2419
@TravelBulletin
TravelBulletin
30
May 29 2015
puzzlesolutions
Crossword:
Across: 1. VENTURA, 4. ATM, 6. EEL, 8. AJACCIO, 9. NAXOS, 11. ETNA, 12. EDI, 14. ANNE, 15. MAINE, 17.
ANTWERP, 19. NOB, 20. DON, 21. DRACHMA.
Down: 1. VIENNA, 2. USA, 3. ANAHEIM, 4. ASCENSION, 5. MOON, 7. LEXINGTON, 10. SEEFELD, 13. SERBIA, 16.
RAND, 18. PIA.
Highlighted Word: VIETNAM
Travagrams: (top) Wendy Wu Tours
Where Am I?: Languedoc-Roussillon
(bottom) New Orleans
SUMMER
SAVINGS
AFFORDABLE
LUXURY
HALKIDIKI
BEST
PRICE
4 Anthemus Sea
Beach Hotel & Spa
SAVE*
BERMUDA
£504
per couple per week
Fairmont
Hamilton Princess
REDUCED RATES
7 nights from £1,999pp
7 nights
from £899pp
Room only, departs Gatwick 11 June
HB, departs Gatwick 15 Sep
*For stays until 7 Sep. Book before 31 Aug.
EGYPT Sahl Hasheesh
BEST
PRICE
5 Baron Palace
7 nights
from £1,295pp
SAVE
EGYPTSharm el Sheikh
£1,299
*
per couple per week
5 Baron
Palms Resort
All inclusive
All inclusive
departs Gatwick 29 Jun
departs Gatwick 29 Jun
CRETE
BEST
PRICE
5 St Nicolas Bay
Resort Hotel & Villas
REDUCED RATES
7 nights from £899pp
B&B
B&B, departs Gatwick 16 Sep
departs Gatwick 18 Sep
*For stays 22 Aug-31 Oct. Book before 31 May
BEST
PRICE
5 Constantinou
Bros Asimina Suites
£266
per couple per week
5 Gran Hotel
Atlantis Bahia Real
CYPRUS
SAVE*
FUERTEVENTURA
SAVE*
TURKEY
£454
per couple per week
5 Kempinski Hotel
The Dome
REDUCED RATES
7 nights from £999pp
B&B
HB, departs Gatwick 25 Jun
departs Gatwick 14 Sep
*For stays until 7 Nov. Book before 31 May
Call 0800 008 7288
www.classic-collection.co.uk
5030
FLY FROM
YOUR
LOCAL
AIRPORT
PRIVATE
TRANSFERS
INCLUDED

Creating new opportunities for clients by promoting

Transcription

Similar documents

3* Saboia Hotel - Concorde Travel

4* Meteor Hotel - Concorde Travel

Full 7 Nights Program

Turama - Yacht Masters

Metropolis Resort

or 903-212-3308 Join the FBCL 55+ Family for a Little Excursion to

The Hotel Laguna Mar - Sunworld Properties

PDF - Hotel Molika Bitola

A waterfall of pleasure!

Melia and Traders KL Flyer1