Travel Bulletin 1st March 2013

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March 1 2013 | ISSUE NO 1,815 | www.travelbulletin.co.uk

USA New Florida tours & properties plus deals your clients won't want to miss

this week agent bulletin 9

new booking incentives plus the chance to win a place on a fam

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event bulletin news, quotes & images from our two Southern & East Africa showcase evenings held in Manchester & Birmingham

middle east emerging trends, new events and year-round holiday ideas

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all-inclusive the latest deals to whet your clients' appetite in this popular sector

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LET YOUR CLIENTS FEEL THE WARMTH OF SPAIN AND ITALY. FLIGHTS TO

BARCELONA, ALICANTE, MAJORCA AND MANY OTHER DESTINATIONS.

DIRECT FLIGHT FLIGHTS: S: FROM L LONDON: ONDON: T TO OAC CORUÑA, ORUÑA, BARCEL BARCELONA, ONA, BILBA BILBAO, O, FLORENCE FLORENCE AND MAJORCA. FROM CARDIFF: T TO O ALICANTE, BARCEL BARCELONA, ONA, MALA MALAGA GA AND MAJORCA. FROM EDINBURGH: T TO O BARCEL BARCELONA. ONA. O OTHER THER SP SPANISH ANISH DES DESTINATIONS, TINATIONS, VIA BARCELONA. BARCELONA. F For or more more information information w www.vueling.com/agencies ww.vueling.com/agencies or ask at at y your our tr travel avel agenc agency. y.

LOVE LOVE THE WAY WAY YOU YOU FLY FL LY

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newsbulletin

Cover Pictures: Main - FloridasHistoricCaost.com

Inset - Royal Mangroves Residence, Anantara

‘Not travelling enough’ top regret for over 50s

FRIDGE FILLERS...Superbreak recently ran a competition with 32 Althams Travel branches to get them to create the best Superbreak window in their shop. The winning shop won a host of goodies to fill their fridge - from wine and cheese to chocolate and fruit. The winners were Althams Travel Halifax. Pictured are, from the left: the agency's Christina Ward, Helen Ibbetson, Paul Eastwood, Susan Calvert (back), Rachel Humphreys (front) with Laura Dawson from Superbreak.

This Week 3

news

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notes from normanton

‘Not travelling enough’ is top regret for over 50s find out how Sandy is getting on as a freelancer

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puzzle bulletin

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W-AITO-Go!

agent bulletin

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new booking incentives plus the chance to win a place on a fam

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cruising is ACE news & views from the Association of Cruise Experts

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play Su Doku for your chance to win a £50 Hotel Chocolat voucher how to sell Malaysia as a themed garden holiday

event bulletin news, quotes & images from our two Southern & East Africa showcase evenings held in Manchester & Birmingham

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personality bulletin

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usa

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middle east

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which country manager believes consumers should be offered the chance to visit WTM? a round-up of new tours & properties plus deals your clients won't want to miss emerging trends, new events and year-round holiday ideas

all-inclusive a round-up of the latest deals to whet your clients' appetite in this popular sector

A POLL by www.sunshine.co.uk has revealed that ‘not travelling enough’ is the top regret for Britons over the age of 50; with the majority of those taking part claiming that they’d been on holiday, on average, ‘less than once a year’ throughout their lifetime.

Some 2,107 UK adults over the age of 50 took part in the study and answered questions about the holidays they had been on and what regrets, if any, they had in life.

When asked, ‘What do you regret, if anything, from your life so far?’ and asked to select all that applied from a list of possible answers, the most common response, given by 91% of respondents, was ‘not travelling enough’.

And when asked how many holidays abroad, on average, they had been on throughout their lifetime so far, the majority, 64%, said ‘less than once a year’.

When asked what places they would most like to have visited that they hadn’t got round to yet, Australia, the US and South Africa were the top answers given, with 78%, 71% and 65% of the vote respectively.

Furthermore, 63% said they planned to see more of the world once they’d retired.

PANAMA P A ANAMA CITY BEA BEACH CH

SAVOUR THE SUNSHINE OF FLORIDA

7 NIGHTS FR OM £989PP FROM For more details or to book,, call

0844 557 0626 oorr vvisit isi t

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newsbulletin Big Top Circus Breaks at Butlins BUTLINS HAS announced the arrival of Big Top Circus breaks at all three of its resorts throughout the school summer holidays this year.

Under the purpose built Big Top at each resort, guests will find trapeze artists, aerial gymnasts and clowns from professional circuses around the world.

Each resort will have a different theme with Minehead and Skegness welcoming the Russian Bolshoi State Circus in “Circus of the Czars” and Bognor Regis offering a Latin flavour in the form of South American sensation “Carnival Circus.”

Guests can choose to add circus tickets to their packages for £5 per person. All seats are pre-allocated and will be handed to guests on arrival. Shows will take place three times, six days a week from Tuesday to Sunday.

A three-night Big Top break at Bognor Regis leads in at £107 per person arriving on July 26, based on two adults and two children sharing a Silver self-catering apartment.

Meanwhile, the Skegness resort is set to add a new event, The Bootleg Ball, to its line-up of Live Music Weekends from March 15-18. Headlining the weekend are tributes to U2, Kings of Leon, Bon Jovi, ACDC and Blondie, as well as covers of Stereophonics, Blur, The Rolling Stones, The Specials, Queen, The Beatles, Take That, T-Rex, Oasis, Simply Red, Phil Collins, Earth, Wind and Fire and Duran Duran.

Prices for the three-night break start from £78 per person based on four people (over 18s only) sharing a Silver selfcatering apartment for a March 15 arrival. It includes entrance to all tribute performances.

For more information or to book see www.bourneleisuresales.co.uk or call 0845-070 4742.

THIS SUMMER, between May and October, Air Malta will again operate weekly charter flights to/from seven regional airports in the UK. The airline will operate charter flights to/from Birmingham and Cardiff with two flights weekly on Tuesdays and Fridays, and weekly flights on Tuesdays to/from Bristol, Exeter, Newcastle, Norwich and Glasgow airports.

For details see www.airmalta.com

Bright training workshops BRIGHT HAS announced the dates of its training workshops taking place this month for independent agents. They are on Tuesday March 19 at the Rougemont Thistle Hotel in Exeter and on Wednesday March 20 at Macdonald Bath Spa in Bath.

For details see www.brightconsortia.com or to register for any of the events email bookings@eventsfortravel.com

InsideJapan Tours announces launch of sister holiday brand, InsideVietnam Tours INSIDEJAPAN TOURS has launched a sister holiday brand, InsideVietnam Tours. Consistent with the ‘Inside…’ aims and aspirations, the new company offers itineraries – both escorted and tailormade – and experiences that enable travellers to get beneath the surface of the country.

The operator's director Alastair Donnelly said: "Following a survey of our clients, we found out that many would be keen to travel to Vietnam with us. So, we’re using the same concept in a different country, with a new team of

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experts. Our clients are curious to discover new places; they like to be adventurous, experience the culture and meet the people. Our specialist team can facilitate all of this, with real passion, in the same way as the InsideJapan team does. It’s a successful way of working, and one which seems to be appreciated by our clients.”

Examples of small group escorted tours include a ten-night Highlights of Vietnam option which takes in five UNESCO World Heritage destinations, including Hanoi, Halong Bay, Hoi An,

Imperial Hue, Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta. Prices lead in at £1,290 per person, based on two sharing.

A 13-night Magnificent Vietnam tour includes visits to some of the country’s converted colonial properties, plus a night on the Mekong Delta on a renovated rice barge, a night’s cruising through Halong Bay and two overnight train journeys. Prices lead in at £2,750 per person based on two sharing.

For further information call 0117-370 9733 or visit www.insidevietnamtours.com

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newsbulletin Regent Holidays launches ‘The Alternative Collection' REGENT HOLIDAYS has launched its latest brochure entitled ‘The Alternative Collection’, featuring an extensive range of small group tours, tailor-made itineraries and city breaks to Russia, North Korea, Eastern and Central Europe, Central Asia and beyond.

Examples include a 16-day Trans-Siberian small group option, which takes visitors beyond the remote tracks of the Trans-Siberian railway and onto the Baikal-Amur Mainline (BAM) Railway from Severobaikalsk, through rarely visited mountains, marshes and tundra to Vladivostok. Prices start from £3,485 per person for an August 13 departure. An eightday Behind the Iron Curtain tour delves into the former communist countries of Russia, uncovering stories of a communist past, with prices from £1,699 per person.

The programme also includes a return to Cuba, with a choice of group tours and fly/drive breaks. For example, a 14-day ‘Revolutionary Cuba Fly/Drive’ holiday is ideal for travellers in search of history and culture, and costs from £2,345 per person.

All prices include flights in Economy Class, airport taxes, transfers and transport, accommodation in threeor four-star hotels with many meals included and sightseeing with an English-speaking guide.

For more information visit www.regentholidays.co.uk or call 020-7666 1244.

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Star names this spring at Haven STAR NAMES from television shows Britain’s Got Talent and X Factor will take to the stage across Haven's 35 seaside parks this spring.

Examples include Danyl Johnson and Jamie Archer who will be performing their popular hits, while flying the flag for Britain’s Got Talent will be part-time jazz hand teacher and entertainment captain of cruise liner, 'The Fishy Rose', Kevin Cruise.

Other highlights include 60s English vocal trio, The Ivy League who enjoyed two Top 10 hit singles in the UK Singles Chart in 1965 and The Dreamers.

Prices start from £249 for a three-night break at Craig Tara in Scotland on April 12. The price is based on up to six people sharing a superior two-bedroom caravan and includes a performance by Danyl Johnson.

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JETSET HAS launched an Allocated Seating facility which is available for seat-only and Package Pal bookings made on JETS and when agents phone the call centre team. For details see www.jetsetflights.co.uk or call 0845-025 2777.

ADVANTAGE HAS announced that actress and campaigner Joanna Lumley will be a keynote speaker at its conference in Malaga from May 9-12.

TOURISM AUSTRALIA is encouraging rugby fans to head Down Under for the British & Irish Lions Tour to Australia in June and July, and Lions Rugby Travel is incentivising agents with a commission programme for booking packages. Agents interested in working with the company should visit www.lionstour.com/travel or call 0844-788 4070.

AEROLINEAS ARGENTINAS has announced the appointment of Flight Directors as its new general sales agent for the UK & Ireland.

HOTELBEDS HAS announced that it has acquired JBS (www.jbshotels.com), a US-based company dedicated to the Chinese accommodation wholesaler market.

TRAVELPORT HAS launched a new tool to enhance the way travel agents manage, mark-up and control the onward distribution of their airline filed private fares. Net Fare Manager reduces key strokes related to fare management by up to 80% with its intuitive web-based interface. From a single screen, new and updated negotiated fares are displayed for easy update and redistribution to any travel agency location.

For details see www.travelport.com WAYN, A travel and lifestyle social network has redesigned its interface to enable users to better discover where to go, what to do and who to meet. The platform includes a Pinterest-style wall and members can search or browse any destination and filter it by their WAYN, Facebook and Foursquare networks to find recommendations on where to go and what to do.

For details see www.wayn.com THE EAST of England Co-operative Society’s travel business has joined the Midcounties Co-op Consortium to offer its customers a wider freedom of choice and travel services tailored to their individual needs.

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newsbulletin Tweets of the Week Who’s saying what on Twitter... @AitoAgents Excited to unveil the first of many high-profile speakers anticipated at our & @AITOHQ Dubai conference, 14 -17 June: http://aitoagents.blogspo t.co.uk/2013/02/aitooperators-and-aitospecialist.html … @TravelPromoters If you did or didn't make it to the fabulous @TravelBulletin #Africa evening in Birminghamfollow us for news and info on @SeasonsInAfrica @ClassicHols Luxury Deal of the Day, 4* Tivoli Carvoeiro, Algarve, 7 nights B&B from £499pp dep from 20 March http://www.classiccollection.co.uk/deal-ofthe-day @TitanAgencySale Great night had by all at the @TravelBulletin Africa Showcase in Manchester! Thanks to all involved. pic.twitter.com/a5znDSjU

Follow us on Twitter! http://twitter.com/ TravelBulletin

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Minibreaks promo from Hilton HHonors UNTIL APRIL 30, guests can save up to 20% on hotel stays booked 21 days in advance at any of the participating Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts, Conrad Hotels & Resorts, Hilton Hotels & Resorts, DoubleTree by Hilton, Hilton Garden Inn and Hampton Hotels in Europe, the Middle East and Africa. With the offer, guests can experience minibreaks from £65 at participating hotels across Europe, the Middle East and Africa.

For details see www.hhonors.com

BRIGHT ATTRACTION...BRIGHT (Bringing Real Information & Guaranteed High Quality Training) has welcomed Attraction World as a new member to the consortia. Pictured marking the announcement are, from the left: Jonathan Whiteley, deputy chairman of Bright, with Nick Hughes and Nicky Yates from Attraction World.

For more information see www.brightconsortia.com

Planet offers early booking discounts in Cyprus & Greece PLANET HOLIDAYS has launched its 208-page summer 2013 Cyprus and Greece brochure with the introduction of Spetse in Greece, 21 new luxury properties, plus early booking discounts of up to 30% off many hotels and resorts in both destinations.

The brochure offers a range of five-star hotels, resorts and villas, as well three- and four-star properties and family-friendly accommodation. More all-inclusive options have also been added, following increased demand from consumers, as well as ‘adult-only’ hotels or hotels that feature an ‘adults-only’ wing.

Agents looking for quality spa resorts and golf hotels for their clients will also find a wide choice in the new brochure, along with villas, apartments and studios for those who prefer self-catering options. The operator also give agents the freedom to package up holidays as their clients want – with scheduled or charter flights, flight upgrades, private transfers or accommodation-only and with short breaks, as well as seven and 14-night holidays an option.

In Cyprus the brochure covers Paphos, Larnaca, Limassol, Agia Napa, Aphrodite’s Rock, Western Cyprus, Pissouri and the Troodos Mountains.

As an example of prices, a seven-night stay at the four-star Palm Beach Hotel & Bungalows in Larnaka, departing on June 7 for a family of two adults and two children, leads in at £2,197. It includes breakfast accommodation, flights and transfers.

In Greece, 20 new four- and five-star hotels and apartments are offered in Crete, Rhodes, Corfu, Zante, Santorini, Mykonos, Halkidiki and Peloponnese, plus the newly introduced island of Spetse.

For further information call 0871-871 2234 or see www.planet-holidays.co.uk

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WELCOME TO PANAMA CITY BEACH

With an With an aaverage verage of of 320 320 d days ays o off ssunshine unshine annually annually of 74 aand nd an an average average year year round round temperature temperature of 74 degrees, degrees, Panama P anama City City Beach Beach mixes mixes true true Southern Southern hospitality hospitality with world-class w ith w orld-class aamenities for aann menities aand nd aattractions ttractionss for Panama City uunparalleled nparalleled ttravel xperience. P anama C ravel eexperience. ity Beach Beach is in the the Northwest Nor thwest region region of of Florida Florida and and is llocated ocated in spans miles off gglorious along the the Gulf Gulf spans 227 7m iles o lorious beachfront beachfront along of The destination of Mexico.

Mexico. T he d estination also also offers offers a wide wide array array SJ VIGVIEXMSREP EGXMZMXMIW MRGPYHMRK FSEXMRK ½WLMRK S J VIGVIEXMSREP EGXMZMXMIW MRGPYHMRK FSEXMRK ½WLMRK diving, parasailing spor ts. water sports. ssnorkelling, norkelling, d iving, p arasailing and and other other water Accommodation beach A ccommodation options osy b options range range ffrom rom ccosy each luxurious multi-bedroom ccottages ottages tto o lu xurious mul ti-bedroom condominiums, condominiums, off ttravellers ssuiting uiting aallll ttypes ypes o couples. ravellers – ffrom rom ffamilies amilies to couples.

NEW W BR BROCHURE RO OCHURE OUT NOW! NO OW W! For more details on Panama P anama City Beach request request our o ur brochure toda todayy at: www.trade-gate.co.uk .trade-gate .co.uk www w.tr .

7 NIGHTS IGHTS FR FROM RO OM £779PP! For more details or to book,, call

0844 557 0626 orr vvisit isit

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newsbulletin 'Closer to Home' launch from Essentially Prestige offers selection of accommodation options

Notes from . . . n o t n a m r o N T IS certainly interesting doing a bit of freelance work from home. I have come to realise (or certainly have had my thoughts confirmed) how difficult it is for travel agents to make a living. I have been on various tour operator websites as a punter and I am still amazed at the difference in what an agent can sell a holiday for and what their direct price is. I know there is always going to be a bit of a difference but I would say that most agents could live with a 5% difference IF they have to. I think the worst offender is Thomson - I cannot understand if they want to sell direct to the public why don’t they get on and do it? They are not doing anyone any favours with their cut-throat discounting on their website. In fact, I would say they will be losing out because I know a lot of agents won’t bother price matching just to earn £6 or £18 as Tony Mann from Idle Travel was asked to do the other day - it’s not worth it, so of course he will switch sell. We should be looking at not just switch selling with Thomson brand but also their specialist brands – Citalia, Hayes & Jarvis, Jetsave etc., then it would start to hurt! I have always said support those operators that support us, the more we support them the more productive both parties will be.

Good old English weather never ceases to amaze me.

It still causes havoc whatever it does - good job we don’t have 10 feet of snow like they do in Canada etc., wouldn’t it be nice if we could have the proper four seasons back again - spring, summer, autumn and winter instead of them all rolling almost into one or two. Roll on a proper hot summer!

‘Do not judge by appearance, a rich heart may be under a poor coat’ and ‘If friendship is your weakest point, then you are the strongest person in the world’.

Sandy is now working as a freelance travel advisor under the name Sandy’s Travel Escapes. She can be contacted by emailing s.murray922@btinternet.com or by calling 07713-401101.

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by SANDRA MURRAY in Normanton, Yorkshire

PRESTIGE HAS launched a ‘Closer to Home’ brochure, offering holiday options in St Mary’s, Tresco, Bryher and St Martin in the Isles of Scilly and Jersey, Guernsey, Alderney, Herm and Sark in the Channel Islands.

Prices in the Isles of Scilly start from £332 per person for three nights at the Belmont B&B in Hugh Town, St Mary’s including flights from Land’s End to St Mary’s and transfers.

Accommodation options in the new brochure range from guesthouses, to two-, three-, four- and five-star hotel accommodation, as well as a choice of selfcatering properties.

New self-catering properties include the Bella Bryher on St Mary’s and the Sea Garden Cottages on Tresco.

Prices at Bella Bryher, which sleeps up to four guests, lead in at £496 per person per week, including flights and transfers.

The programme also features a range of holidays in the Channel Islands, with prices from £280 for a threenight stay at the Cobo Bay Hotel in Guernsey.

It includes flights from Southampton with Flybe, transfers and breakfast accommodation in a standard room.

For more information or to book see www.prestigeholidays.co.uk or call 01425-480600.

Go

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WEBSCLUSIVES ●

Make British Airways and American Airlines bookings to the USA for your chance to win a place on the Brand USA Megafam 2013. Seven great itineraries to choose from!

For details on how to apply, go to www.usamegafam.co.uk

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Win a Fam Trip to Florida’s Beaches, courtesy of Funway. Trips take place in May/June.

For full details, go to www.travelbulletin.co.uk/funway

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Make sure you complete this week’s Crossword, sponsored by Jet2holidays, for the chance to win £50 in Love2Shop vouchers. Just fill in the Crossword on Page 11 of this edition, and then submit the mystery location along with your contact details via our website on www.travelbulletin.co.uk/competitions.

All this and more at: To respond to any of Sandy’s comments email jill.sayles@travelbulletin.co.uk

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www.travelbulletin.co.uk The home of the web savvy travel agent www.travelbulletin.co.uk

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agentbulletin Booking incentives ●

TRAVEL 2 has teamed up with Blitz Campervan and Australian Pacific Touring to give agents the chance to win one of four pairs of tickets to see Robbie Williams live in concert in London, Manchester or Glasgow. As part of the ‘Make Australia Your New Year’s Resolution’ campaign, agents are being encouraged to support Australian tourism in 2013.

To be in with a chance of winning agents must make a new booking to Australia with the operator for a minimum of five nights plus campervan hire or touring before March 15.

For details see www.travel2.com

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HOLIDAY AUTOS is running a prize incentive for agents booking car hire this month. Agents who achieve £2,013 and above in booking value can enter a draw for the chance to win an iPad 2. The first three agents who reach the target will automatically receive a £50 shopping voucher. Agents can book online at www.trade.holidayautos.co.uk or by calling 0800-093 3210. To enter the prize draw agents should email booking references (which amount to the £2,013 target) to incentives@holidayautos.co.uk.

Terms and conditions apply.

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MSC CRUISES has launched a new competition where agents have the chance to win a cruise on the line’s latest flagship, MSC Preziosa. The competition closes on March 16, one week before Preziosa’s christening ceremony takes place in at register can Agents Italy.

Genoa, cruises, MSC selling by and, test.com www.msccon collect promotional codes over the course of the competition which can then be entered to activate an MSC ship game. The more agents sell, the more they can play, and the higher their chances of winning. Once a travel agent has at least one promotional code, the game can begin. By entering a code online, a virtual tour of an MSC Fantasia class ship will open and agents will be instructed to search the ship for a certain combination of three hidden gemstones. To discover the hidden

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gemstones, agents must take a comprehensive tour using their knowledge of the ship and her facilities. correct a find who those of All entered be will gemstones three of combination into the prize draw. Ten winners chosen at random will receive a seven-night voucher for two to sail on Preziosa on her Mediterranean itineraries.

For details see www.msccontest.com ●

AGENTS CAN be in with a chance of winning a Samsung Galaxy smart phone with Travel 2’s latest campaign – Out Of This World #Dubai – showcasing family holidays in Dubai. Working in conjunction with Qantas and Definitely Dubai, the new campaign aims to create maximum engagement with agents by providing them with QR codes on all marketing posters. The QR codes unlock details of a range of activities on offer in Dubai for sports enthusiasts, fine dining fans and those who prefer to hit the shops. Four Samsung Galaxy smart phones are up for grabs. To qualify agents must make a new booking to Dubai from now until March 15 that includes flights with Qantas and a minimum three nights’ accommodation.

For details see www.travel2.com

Fancy a fam?

TITAN IS giving agents the chance to win a place on its Canada & Rocky Mountaineer fam in May when they book any Rocky Mountaineer Tour with the operator by March 31. The company offers more than 20 escorted tours to Canada, including five that feature the iconic Rocky Mountaineer. Agents can find the tours in the operator's Worldwide 2013/14 brochure or the USA & Canada 2013/14 brochure.

For details visit www.titanagents.co.uk or call 0800-988 5166.

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cruisebulletin

InBrief

Cruising is

● CARNIVAL CRUISE Lines has launched a virtual tour of the Carnival

Sunshine, the line’s most comprehensive ship transformation project. The virtual tour of the £100million renovation showcases the ship's new additions including a range of dining, bar and entertainment innovations plus its outdoor spaces.

For details see www.carnival.com/sunshine ● CRUISE & Maritime Voyages has unveiled plans to enter the

by Kathryn Beadle, managing director, Hurtigruten NEVITABLY, AS the UK cruise market is dominated by the big US cruise lines we are now adopting their euphuisms and hence we are now well into the ‘wave season’ or to us Brits the ‘peaks’!

The ‘Tsunami’ of bookings that we used to experience many years ago when there was an exodus from sofas across the UK the day after Boxing Day, beating a path to the nearest travel agent to book the annual holiday has changed dramatically. Rather than a tidal wave it is now more of a ‘gentle swell’ as booking patterns are much flatter and bookings made closer to departure date. However, as we all know when we start a new year, we plan on how we would like to fill it and a holiday is always towards the top of the list. Therefore it is absolutely essential that our products or the services of travel agents are presented as an option at this key planning stage.

The reluctance of families to book too far out is understandable due to job insecurities and economic concerns, but a Hurtigruten customer is mature in age, they are financially secure so they do not have the same worries, but we are also experiencing this change of booking pattern. Often the decision to travel to Norway was made months before and the decision to travel on Hurtigruten, which offers a totally different experience to the mainstream cruise companies, is often triggered by one of the many marketing activities that we undertake at this time of year with agents. If we measured the response to our activity undertaken during the wave period we would logically conclude that activity needs to be more evenly spread. However, our experience shows that if we ‘up weight’ our activity when this planning process is taking place then the rewards will come. Travel agents are a key partner in this process, they need to promote and market their expertise during the wave period to encourage customers to gather ideas and suggestions from them.

Customers who book niche products such as Hurtigruten will undoubtedly undertake extensive research; they will be looking for something that is different from the mainstream and it is only by promotion at the vital planning stage that the interest of these potential customers will be captured. The key for us all is to be sure that our product, and the services, knowledge and added value provided by the agent, is front of mind when the customer is ready to part with their money.

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Australian cruise market with the opening of a dedicated sales office in Sydney; a three-year seasonal charter of the 600-passenger ASTOR which will operate twice yearly ocean voyages between the UK, Australia and South Africa; and the launch of a summer season of cruises from Fremantle, Perth commencing on December 12. ● SWAN HELLENIC has announced a 15-day Holy Lands cruise this

Easter which visits the Pyramids and Coptic Orthodox monasteries in Egypt, before calling at the holy cities of Bethlehem and Jerusalem. Prices lead in at £2,630 including flights, transfers, a tailor-made programme of shore excursions, talks by guest speakers, meals and entertainment on-board, all gratuities and all relevant cruise taxes/fees.

See www.swanhellenic.com or call 0844-822 0679.

‘Verona Opera & Cruise' from Regent REGENT SEVEN Seas Cruises has announced an exclusive ‘Verona Opera & Cruise’ experience this summer featuring a operatic performance of Giuseppe Verdi’s Aida at the Arena di Verona in Italy.

The 12-night experience includes a luxury two-night pre-cruise stay at the fivestar Due Torri Hotel in Verona, prior to joining Seven Seas Mariner for an all-inclusive ten-night sailing from Venice to Athens.

The programme includes flights, a two-night breakfast stay at the Due Torri Hotel, Gold Tickets for Giuseppe Verdi’s ‘Aida’, a two-hour guided walking tour of Verona, transfers and a ten-night all-inclusive cruise.

Departing on June 26, fares lead in at £3,895 per person, based on two sharing a H category suite, subject to availability.

To book or for more information call 02380-682280 or visit www.rssc.com

Short cruise options from P&O Cruises P&O CRUISES has added nine short cruises ranging from two to five nights this year, visiting the Channel Islands, Belgium and the Netherlands.

Classical singing duo, Jonathan Antoine & Charlotte Jaconelli, who shot to fame in last year’s Britain’s Got Talent, will appear on Azura’s fournight cruise on April 18.

Their first album is now certified gold and was the highest ever entry by a classical album into the main album chart. The cruise provides an opportunity to see them before the start of their UK tour this summer.

Available on a choice of family-friendly large and mid-sized ships from April to July, all short break cruises depart from and return to Southampton, with prices starting from £199 per person for a two-night cruise on Azura in April.

For more information or to book call 0843-373 0111 or visit www.pocruises.co.uk

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puzzlebulletin Travagrams

Su Doku Win a £50 Hotel Chocolat voucher in the travelbulletin Su Doku prize puzzle

Can you solve the following anagrams to decipher the destination & tour operator?

Number: 101

Foolhardy Lace Sis

A➠

B➠ This operator’s name contains an Italian phrase meaning ‘to dine outdoors’

C➠

Aching Aim

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:

competition@travelbulletin.co.uk

This Thai city is well known for its night bazaar

Where Am I?

Closing date for entries is Thursday, March 7th. Solution and new puzzle will appear next week.

The winner for 8th February is Faye Bush, Pure Travel in Halifax.

The winner for 15th February is Shelly Cardle, Althams Travel in West Yorkshire.

February 8 Solution: A=2 B=1 C=5 D=4 February 15 Solution: A=2 B=9 C=6 D=7

Crossword

Sponsored By

City location of the 2013 Travel Convention

Fill in the crossword to spell the mystery location highlighted by the blue squares and visit www.travelbulletin.co.uk/crossword to submit your entry. All correct entries will be placed in a free prize draw and one lucky winner will win £50 Love2Shop vouchers.

Closing date for entries is Thursday March 7th.

Down Across 1. Home of MediaCityUK (7) 1. In which Costa Brava resort does Jet2holidays feature the Hotel Galeon Pavilion? (6) 2. Major travel group (3) 4. E L James has made millions from Fifty Shades of 3. Double Brit Award winner, Ms Sande (5) this colour (4) 5. Butlins frontline entertainer (7) 8. Runs by the vineyards and chateaux of France (5) 6. Japanese currency (3) 9. Khartoum is the capital of this republic (5) 7. Land surrounded by water (4) 10. State capital of Idaho (5) 10. Landlocked East African country (7) 12. Month of the year, in short (3) 11. International broadcasting network (3) 14. Durban International airport code (3) 13. Capital of Georgia (7) 15. Hotels and resorts group (5) 15. One of the smaller Channel Islands (4) 17. Currency of Jordan (5) 16. Major hotel group (5) 18. Historic Corsica city and resort (5) 17. River, forms part of the border between 20. One of the Great Lakes (4) England and Wales (3) 21. Country on the island of Borneo (6) 19. Luton airport code (3)

Number: 101

Congratulations to Melanie Skelton, Thomas Cook who won the 15th February crossword prize of £50 Love2Shop vouchers

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Jet2holidays offers flexible and great value package holidays for just £60pp deposit

The Where Am I and Travagrams solutions can be found on page 30 March 1 2013

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opinionbulletin

W-AITO-Go!

by GRAEME MITCHELL Managing director, Brightwater Holidays

As Tourism Malaysia becomes the latest AITO Affiliate member, Brightwater Holidays reflects on selling the destination as a themed garden holiday...

OR A niche tour operator like Brightwater Holidays, Malaysia has always been in our sights and it would be difficult to overstate its attraction as a destination.

It’s a multi-cultural and contrasting country of tropical jungle, palm-fringed beaches, high-rise cities and aboriginal villages. But for our particular niche market, we had to put our spin on things and come up with a bespoke tour that was not available with any of the larger, more established tour operators.

Gardens are our thing. We take people to visit gardens all over the world. We offer everything from Japan during the cherry blossom season and South Africa’s Garden Route to the gardens and architecture of Andalucia, the grand gardens of the Italian Lakes and the private rose gardens of Uruguay. Of course, we can apply this specialism to an array of destinations across the world and the same goes for whatever your specialist area is - food, culture, river cruising, adventure, etc.

But we had never previously operated to Malaysia – so where exactly do you start?

Thankfully our operations manager has travelled several times to Malaysia and, with the UK office of Tourism Malaysia recently becoming an AITO Affiliate, we now have greater access to knowledge and support. I believe that this is a real benefit of AITO membership – you can quickly and easily connect with a senior executive at the tourist board who is genuinely interested in what you are trying to do. The affiliates also cover a broad spectrum of associated industries related to the travel industry including graphic designers, insurance companies, airlines and legal firms. In this case, one call to the right chap at Tourism Malaysia and doors that would normally have taken weeks to locate were springing open in front of me.

While the tourist board was pointing us in the right direction for suitable ground handlers, it was up to us to come up with the right itinerary and tour content. One thing I have learnt during my 21 years at Brightwater Holidays is that it is not what you know that matters - but who!

Therefore, the next step on the ladder could be, for example, a telephone call to my friend Mike Nelhams, curator at the Abbey Gardens on Tresco in the Scilly Isles, or to a former director-general of the RHS with whom I share lunch with from time to time, or an orchid expert who escorts tours for us.

The call could go along the lines of: “Hi Mike, I’m looking at running a new tour to Malaysia, have you got any contacts

F

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March 1 2013

out there? I could do with some private gardens in and around Kuala Lumpur or Penang.”

“Ah yes Graeme, there’s a chap I know at one of the botanic gardens out there, we swap agapanthus cuttings every now and then – lovely fella – I’ll drop him an email and see what he can come up with…” And within a couple of days the head gardener in Malacca has agreed to meet our group and take them for tea and a viewing of a friend’s private garden at an old rubber plantation.

And so it continues until we have a well-balanced itinerary. But, of course, it is not just about gardens. When visiting a country like Malaysia there are certain things we simply must include, like a visit to the Cameron Highlands to see the wonderful tea plantations, to Kuala Lumpur to see the Petronas Towers and the chance to enjoy the local cuisine. But gardens will be our main focus and guests can expect to see 12 specific gardens over 12 days, ranging from grand botanical institutions to a small hibiscus farm.

They can then extend their holiday with tour extensions within Malaysia, including Borneo, or to other destinations in south-east Asia and beyond.

I am sure the principle of such niche tour operating is the same for many of the other AITO operators, whether it be wildlife tours with Naturetrek, archaeology with Andante or wine tours with Arblaster and Clarke – and, with such specific niche markets, there is minimal overlap, so that is why I have always found that members of the AITO ‘family’ – if I can be excused for using such a cheesy expression – are always willing to help and pass on advice. So, anything you want to know about garden tours, I’m your man!

To respond to any of Graeme’s views email jill.sayles@travelbulletin.co.uk

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eventbulletin TRAVEL BULLETIN held its Southern and East Africa Showcase events across two consecutive evenings in Manchester and Birmingham last week. Through a combination of networking and presentations, agents had the opportunity to learn more about the range of activities, landscapes, cultural and safari options plus wedding and honeymoon opportunities. African themed food, African dancers and prize-giving were other highlights of the events. Here's a round-up of the showcases in pictures, as well as agent and exhibitor's thoughts on the events, plus the latest news updates...

"Thank you for a lovely evening! I attend quite a few workshops and I found Travel Bulletin's Showcase very informative and very well organised. There was just the right amount of suppliers without overload and I came home having learnt something about each one."

Lisa Murray, Travel Counsellors

Above: DANCING THE NIGHT AWAY…Zulu Tradition put on a spectacular performance for attendees in Manchester.

Show News The Seychelles Tourism Board highlighted its online training programme at Travel Bulletin's Showcase events, where agents can increase their product knowledge and also have the chance to win a range of prizes.

For details see www.traveluni.com Virgin Limited Edition has announced that reservations can now be made to stay at Mahali Mzuri in Kenya from this summer.

“I thoroughly enjoyed the Travel Bulletin evening and found it to be a great opportunity for agents to learn more about our products. Many were unaware of the volume and variety of tours that we offer and were impressed with how much we actually include.”

Sharon Tait, Titan Travel

The Residence Zanzibar is offering guests the option of an all-inclusive plan.

The offer is valid with immediate effect until January 6, 2014.

For details, agents can contact their preferred operator.

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March 1 2013

Above: CHOCS AWAY… Emma Knight (left) of Travel Knights collects a box of chocolates and a bottle of Champagne from Sharon Tate of Titan Holidays.

Left: THE ONE FOR CAPE TOWN… Pictured are, from the left: Eileen Allan, Cresta World Travel; Denise Hodgson, Travel The World 2; and Caroline Tjia, One & Only Cape Town.

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eventbulletin Right: Bottle buddies..

Ross McNeill from Flight Centre picked up a bottle of Amarulu and a 'Africa: Eye to Eye With The Unknown' book, courtesy of Tesna Simonsen from Luxury Representation Collection.

“Travel Bulletin surpassed themselves with a great African Showcase recently in Manchester where an abundance of agents were able to increase their knowledge of Africa and the stunning hotels and scenery on offer. Sunset Faraway Holidays, in conjunction with Air Mauritius, were together able to show agent’s the diversity of travelling around Africa using Air Mauritius’ vast network of flights. South Africa and Mauritius offer a perfect combination of cities, safaris and beach breaks, everyone’s dream holiday.”

Sharon Jones, Sunset Faraway Holidays

Above: SEASON'S GREETINGS... Ailsa Tavares (left) from Seasons In Africa chats to Dawn Wigley (centre) from STA and Khaleda Ali from Stratford Travel.

Right: VIRGIN VOYAGE… Leila Muhiadin (left) of LM SAHARA Tours & Treks and Natalie Odenbreit (seated right) from Virgin Limited Edition enjoy networking with Sam Rippingham and Monika Majsterek from Flightcentre.

TOURISM UPDATE… Andrew Sharpe (left) from South African Tourism chats with Norman Taylor and Diane Richardson (middle) from Kiwi Travel Ltd and Natalie de la Porte from KwaZulu-Natal Tourism.

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March 1 2013

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eventbulletin

Show News Seasons In Africa is highlighting new offers at some of its luxury lodges. These include stay three/pay for two nights at the family-friendly Tuningi Safari Lodge and its latest lodge, The Outpost, valid for travel in May, June and July.

Intrepid is currently offering 50% off selected trips and departures to Africa until the end of April. The operator also announced that it has three business development managers covering the UK who are keen to meet and support agents looking to venture further into this lucrative and growing sector of the industry.

For details see www.intrepidtravel.com/africa-sale

Above: PROPPING UP THE BAR...The exhibitor's at the Birmingham event get ready to welcome agents. Pictured from the left are: Natalie Odenbreit, Virgin Limited Edition; Caroline Tjia, One & Only Cape Town; Dawn Parr, Botswana Tourism; Tesna Simonsen, Satoa; Jane Eastwood, Residence Hotels & Resorts; Tony Byrne, Great Rail Journeys; Eloise Vidot, Seychelles Tourism Board; Ailsa Tavares, Seasons In Africa; Kate Marsden, Intrepid; Natalie de la Porte, KwaZulu-Natal Tourism; Belen Navarro, Botswana Tourism; and Andrew Sharpe, South African Tourism.

Above: BOTSWANA IN RESIDENCE‌ Jane Eastwood (left) from The Residence Hotels & Resorts chats with Dawn Parr and BelÊn Navarro (right) from Botswana Tourism.

Left: FOUR OAKS FUN...Sarah Whibley (left) and Kate Marsden (standing) from Intrepid chat to, from the left: Laura Smith, Beccy Flint and Laura Shelton from Four Oaks Travel.

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eventbulletin Left: TONY'S TEAM...getting acquainted are, from the left: Tony Byrne, Great Rail Journeys; Guy Widman, Journey The World; and Jayne Chapman, Kwik Travel.

Below: RAY OF SUNSHINE...Ray Eccleston from Travel Counsellors picked up a goodie bag in the bingo prize draw, courtesy of Eloise Vidot from the Seychelles Tourism Board.

Above: BROCHURE SHOW‌Mike Watkinson (left) from Peregrination discusses the latest KwaZulu-Natal Tourism developments with Natalie de la Porte, KwaZulu-Natal Tourism and Elliot Goldwater, Co-operative PTA.

"It was a great event and a good opportunity to meet some of the agents that I have been dealing with in the last few months already.

It's always good to put faces to names and the events offer a great opportunity to enthuse agents about KwaZulu-Natal and highlight the great things there are to do and see."

Natalie de la Porte, KwaZulu-Natal Tourism

SOMEWHERE FARAWAY‌ Sharon Jones (second from left) from Sunset Faraway Holidays and Jeremy Moore from Air Mauritius show Caroline Hoyle (left) and Andrea Gilligan from STA Travel their latest brochures.

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"I just wanted to say thank you to you and the team for putting on a really good event. It was one of the most informative events I have been to in a long time, I thought the format was good and all the exhibitors were really passionate about their product."

Christine Edgeller, Carrick Travel

March 1 2013

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personalitybulletin

Joanna Walding The country manager – UK & Ireland of the Aruba Tourism Authority always take T-bags when travelling and believes consumers should be offered the chance to visit WTM…

Who is your ideal travelling companion?

My sister, although she lives in Oz, so it normally means we have to meet halfway somewhere.

“The travel industry is a great industry to be in – although most sectors are underpaid when compared to counterparts in other industries”

Where was your last work-related trip?

Aruba in November - it was great to go back after a year away and see the Island’s developments and changes.

If you were a celebrity who would you choose to be and why?

Blake Lively. Well, she is married to Ryan Reynolds!

Career path ●

What is the best advice you recall?

Respect everyone on your climb up the professional ladder as you never know when your paths may cross again.

If you could have a room full of any one thing, what would it be?

Friends and family.

If you could change three things in the industry, what would they be?

APD, price matching and that WTM is only open to the trade…it seems such a waste that consumers don’t get to the see the magnificent (expensive) stands from Thursday onwards.

Who has been the biggest inspiration/influence in your career?

Sir Richard Branson is a huge ambassador and always seems to be highly regarded by the Virgin team. His book ‘Losing my Virginity’ is an inspiring read.

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March 1 2013

If you had a super power what would it be and why?

To fly, so I could visit so many more places quickly and freely.

What item do you always take with you when travelling?

T-bags – you can’t beat a good cuppa!

How do you deal with stress?

By running and sweating out all the problems on the treadmill.

What three words would your friends use to describe you?

Loyal, thoughtful and blonde!

What have your travels taught you?

To take only photos and leave only footprints.

What is your favourite mode of travel?

My feet, I love a good walk and have actually started to enjoy running!

● ●

●

Indepth Tourism Marketing - sales & marketing manager: August 2003 – March 2006 The Saltmarsh Partnership – director: March 2006– November 2011 Caribtours & The Private Travel Company - marketing manager: November 2011 – October 2012 Aruba Tourism Authority - country manager UK & Ireland: November 2012 – present

What's your favourite city and why?

Cape Town - it just blew me away. I arrived from Durban on a racing yacht, we had won that leg and as we crossed the finish line there was the stunning awe-inspiring Table Mountain in the background and a seal floating on his back enjoying the sunshine.

Is there anything that you dislike about the travel industry?

I think it’s a great industry to be in – although most sectors are underpaid when compared to counterparts in other industries.

What special skill do you have?

I can say the alphabet backwards really fast, is that a skill?

How do you cope with the advances in technology?

I Google everything, but if I am stuck my 14-year old cousin knows the answer!

What’s your favourite movie of all time?

Has to be the classic Pulp Fiction.

What do you love about your job?

I get to represent a destination that I believe in and feel passionate about.

If you were not doing this job, what would you be doing?

Chartering luxury yachts around the Caribbean.

What is your motto in life?

Life’s too short to be unhappy.

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usa

HISTORIC ST. AUGUSTINE was the site of the 37th Florida Huddle travel conference earlier this year to coincide with Florida celebrating its 500th year. Huddle brought together tourism professionals at The Renaissance World Golf Resort and Conference Center from around the state who represent destinations, attractions and properties and it was announced that VISIT FLORIDA, the state’s official tourism marketing corporation, has acquisition of Florida Huddle with The Palm Beach County Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) to host the event next year.

Visit Florida's new campaign celebrates the Power of Stories VISIT FLORIDA has announced a new brand campaign that captures all the feelings of a Florida vacation experience in four words: Must Be the Sunshine.

The tourism marketing company's president and CEO, Will Seccombe, said: “There is nothing more powerful than a personal story being shared directly with others, and so at its core ‘Must Be the Sunshine’ is a storytelling campaign."

The message has inspired some major participants.

Several of Florida’s heavyweights – Disney, Universal, SeaWorld and Busch Gardens, along with the Viva Florida 500 initiative, Florida State Parks and many other key tourism businesses – are all partnering together for the first time in the same TV ad.

Visit Florida's reimagined brand and the soon-tocome redesigned website are all part of a strategic vision that celebrates the experiences of Florida’s nearly 90million annual visitors.

For more information on the campaign see www.visitflorida/mustbethesunshine

Florida to strengthen tourism offer with Viva Florida 500 celebrations VIVA FLORIDA 500 is the celebration of Florida’s 500th anniversary when Juan Ponce de León arrived on Florida’s northeast coast and created the first permanent settlement

by Europeans in the US. He named it La Florida. The celebrations run statewide throughout this year with the aim of promoting 500 years Po nce de Leon Statue of history and more than 200 events. It is hoped the initiative will strengthen tourism, spur economic development and educate the world about the state’s history and heritage. The initiative also aims to reposition and rebrand Florida and expand tourism marketing in an effort to raise the state’s profile and reintroduce it as the Gateway to the America’s - the place where the nation’s cultures first came together.

For more information and to learn about the events taking place visit www.fla500.com

Florida’s Historic Coast serves as centre of events during Viva Florida 500 FLORIDA’S HISTORIC Coast (St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra & The Beaches) are serving as centre of events related to the 500th anniversary of the first major landing and settlement by Europeans on the shores of what would become the continental United States. Florida’s Historic Coast encompasses St. Johns County including St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra and The Beaches, with 42 miles of beaches in the northeast from St. Augustine.

The events include a commemorative reenactment on April 3 of the landing of Juan Ponce de Leon at St. Augustine’s historic downtown bay front. St. Augustine, America’s oldest city, will

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open its new Colonial Quarter later this month adding to its 60 or so sites and attractions. These include the recently opened Pirate & Treasure Museum, Lightner museum, Fountain of Youth Archeological Park, Flagler Museum, and Castillo de San Marcos. Ponte Vedra Beach is home to the PGA TOUR and ATP Tour; world-class golf and tennis facilities; spas; and boutique shopping. Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) is 50 minutes north of St. Augustine and 40 minutes from Ponte Vedra. By car, both destinations are easily accessible from the north and south

by Interstate 95 and from the west by Interstate 10.

March 1 2013

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usa Pensacola Bay area shares Florida’s 500th anniversary celebrations THE PENSACOLA Bay Area is hosting themed events that showcase the area’s history including a week-long Viva Pensacola Jazz Festival and a Spanish-themed dinner, prepared by the Pensacola Celebrity Chefs.

The Pensacola Bay Area is considered to be ‘Florida's First Beach’, having been discovered by Spanish explorers in 1559, making it the first major settlement attempt in the United States. History comes to life in historical landmarks, such as Historic Pensacola Village, the Museum of Commerce, the Pensacola Lighthouse, Fort Barrancas, Fort Pickens, churches, historical sites,

art galleries and cultural centres along the AfricanAmerican Heritage Trail.

The Pensacola Bay Area also has a rich military heritage with Naval Air Station Pensacola, the Blue Angels and National Naval Aviation Museum, one of the world's largest air and space museums.

Pensacola is known as the "City of Five Flags" since the area has been ruled by Spain, Britain, France, the Confederacy and the United States.

For a full calendar of Pensacola Bay Area events and festivals visit www.visitpensacola.com

Tallahassee celebrates Florida’s 500-year commemoration of Spanish exploration TALLAHASSEE - THE capital of Florida -began the yearlong commemorations at Mission San Luis, a national historic landmark and the only reconstructed mission site in the Southeast. Other historic attractions play year-round importance to the “Viva Florida 500” initiative, including the Museum of Florida History’s “Forever Changed Exhibit: La Florida 1513-1821” which features a 16th-century Spanish ship display chronicling the era of Spanish exploration and the Florida Historic Capitol Museum with its exhibit called: “Navigating New Worlds: Identity, Perception, and Politics in Florida”.

According to Gary Stogner, senior marketing director at Visit Tallahassee, the city has long-standing appeal for its museums and historic sites but like most cities in North Florida, vast natural areas surround these urban centres. Some of North Florida's greatest attractions are its natural areas, including stretches of some of the finest beaches in the U.S. For more information, visit www.visittallahassee.com

Cosmos promotes Easter & peak summer departures COSMOS HOLIDAYS is featuring Florida holidays for Easter and summer. Packages are available from Manchester on March 31 for a two-week duration, priced from £1,179 per person. For peak summer holidays, departures are available from Glasgow to Orlando Sanford on June 27, July 4 and 11 for two-week durations, with prices leading in at £989 per person.

A choice of twice-weekly flights are available from Gatwick and Manchester throughout summer for both packages .

For clients booking early, a deposit of £49 per person is available, plus free child insurance when booking adult insurance by March 31 for travel this summer. With car hire included in all packages, a range of free car upgrades are available if Alamo Gold Insurance is booked on selected dates.

Monarch Premium upgrades are available and cost from £99 per person return for Gatwick departures, while pre-bookable theme park tickets are also available with a 14-night SeaWorld/Busch Gardens/Aquatica ticket from £89 per adult.

The operator’s head of product & commercial Neil Garner said: “With new attractions and theme park rides opening all the time such as Seaworld’s Antartica: Empire of the Penguin and Universal’s Transformers ride, the destination hasn’t lost its appeal for the UK family market. As our customers require more for their money, we have also launched a range of extra value offers such as room upgrades, free nights and even discounts on attraction tickets.”

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March 1 2013

DELTA AIRLINES offers 1,346 weekly connections between Florida and Heathrow (693 eastbound and 653 westbound) to 16 unique points in Florida. The bulk of the connections (1,061) take place in Atlanta, given its geographic positioning, with a three times daily service from Heathrow.

Florida Keys' website connects visitors with volunteer opportunities VISITORS WHO want to add an enriching element to their next Florida Keys holiday can connect and get involved with voluntourism opportunities through a recently introduced website at www.keysvoluntourism.com The site provides direct links to a variety of Florida Keys charities, non-profit organisations and foundations — all dedicated to protecting and improving the quality of human and animal life in the island chain — that are seeking volunteers.

Organisations currently involved include Reef Environmental Education Foundation, Coral Restoration Foundation, Pigeon Key, Marathon Wild Bird Center, Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center, Habitat For Humanity of Key West & Lower Florida Keys, Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden and Key West Wildlife Center.

The site helps build connections between people who want to donate their time and energy and the organisations that seek their involvement.

Examples include helping build an underwater coral nursery or plant corals on reefs, collecting data on reef fish populations, assisting with yard work or minor repairs at an outdoor tropical garden facility, feeding injured wild birds or mending their cages, cleaning or maintaining paths or trails and helping with fundraising events.

An ongoing calendar of events on the website is planned.

For details see www.keysvoluntourism.com and for more information on the Florida Keys & Key West visit www.fla-keys.co.uk

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usa Virgin Holidays offers early booking discounts in Florida 2014 preview brochure VIRGIN HOLIDAYS has launched its new Florida 2014 preview brochure, featuring exclusive Rockstar Service benefits, early booking discounts and a range of offers.

The brochure offers customers complete flexibility and choice on a wide range of hotels, villas and seat availability, with a dedicated resort and concierge promise.

The operator is also offering free Aberdeen, Edinburgh or Manchester flights to Heathrow on its new Virgin Atlantic service from those cities when customers book a Miami holiday before April 25.

Customers will receive up to £200 off a Florida holiday when travelling in June or September 2014, and families booking a seven-night package before April 30 will receive a £200 saving per booking, whiles couples will save £50 per person. Families will also receive a one-day admission to

Legoland when they book before April 25, offering a saving of up to £208.

The offer is valid for all bookings departing between May 1 and October 31, 2014 with Virgin Atlantic flights, villa and car hire for the duration.

Other exclusive benefits featured in the new brochure include kids (under 11 years) travel from £499 ; kids eat free for all Orlando package holidays, valid in more than 130 restaurants in the Orlando area; and access to the vroom, the company's leisure lounge at Gatwick and Manchester from £20 per adult and £12 per child.

Prices start from £849 per adult for seven nights in a Florida villa.

For more information or to book call 0844-557 3973 or visit www.vhols4agents.co.uk

Experience Kissimmee targets new generation of travellers with rebrand EXPERIENCE KISSIMMEE, the tourism sales and marketing arm of Osceola County in central Florida, has recently undergone a rebrand which aims to address the strategic goals of the destination and target a new generation of travellers through a UK promotional campaign.

The refreshed name accompanies a new logo that features a fresh and modern look.

Experience Kissimmee’s name was chosen following an in-depth study with leading travel industry insiders and key consumers with the word ‘experience’ ranking the highest with Kissimmee.

Aside from the neighbouring theme parks, the destination offers a range of

outdoor adventures and family fun activities from adrenaline-filled ziplining and air boat rides to eco-friendly safaris and nature centres to spas, shopping and a range of dining experiences.

The organisation's executive director, Shelley Maccini, said: “Today’s traveller doesn’t simply want to stay in a destination; they want to experience it.

Our mix of attractions and accommodation, proximity to the world-famous theme parks, natural attractions and smaller entertainment offerings are perfectly suited to giving visitors the involvement and exploration they want in a holiday destination.”

For more information see www.destinationkissimmee.co.uk

A NEW tour from New York City to Miami has been added to Intrepid Travel’s North America programme for 2013. The 15 day-tour offers travellers the chance to take in some of Florida’s highlights including Orlando’s theme parks, Cape Canaveral, Miami and Panama City’s beaches. Guests will also visit New York, Washington DC, Shenandoah National Park, the Appalachian Mountains and the Deep South’s thriving country, blues and jazz scenes in Nashville, Memphis and New Orleans. Departures of the new tour are scheduled from July to September, with prices starting from £1,265 excluding flights.

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March 1 2013

January bookings up 42% year-on-year for Funway Holidays FUNWAY HOLIDAYS has reported an upsurge in bookings for January compared to last year, with a 42% increase year-on-year and an increase of 18% in Florida.

The company’s managing director Stephen Rodes said: “Extra demand for Florida was expected now that January payday has passed and customers took advantage of our February £50 deposit offer, plus the just launched exclusive Disney campaign.”

The operator has issued a new agent incentive in conjunction with Walt Disney World, Virgin Atlantic and Orlando Premium Outlets to raise awareness of its new Disney Monster Deals brochure.

For each booking made whereby flights, any on-site Disney hotel and Disney theme park tickets are booked, agents will be automatically entered into a draw to win from a range of prizes. The first prize is a seven-night Walt Disney World holiday including car rental, flights, theme park tickets, accommodation and $250 to spend at an Orlando Premium Outlet. The second prize is £200 in Disney Store vouchers and third prize is cinema tickets for Monsters Inc. 2, of which the company has 50 to give away. The incentive is valid on all bookings made

by April 2.

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middleeast Anantara offers three new resorts in the UAE

Al Yamm Villas

ANANTARA IS now offering four new resorts located in the United Arab Emirates.

The Sir Bani Yas Island Al Sahel Villas Resort in Abu Dhabi, set to open next month, will be one of two developments within Sir Bani Yas Island’s Arabian Wildlife Park.

Featuring 30 villas, guests will be ideally situated to view the local wildlife.

Meanwhile, the Sir Bani Yas Island Al Yamm Villas resort, also in Abu Dhabi, opened last month and is located on the eastern shore of Sir Bani Yas Island. With beach-style villas, some benefiting from a shoreline position, guests will be able to spot flamingos which populate the island.

The company has also announced its first property in Dubai, the five-star Dubai Palm Jumeirah Resort & Spa. The resort, which is set to open in September, is designed to reflect the brand’s Asian heritage and is located on the crescent of Dubai’s Palm Jumeirah.

The operator has also recently completed the Royal Mangroves Residence at its Eastern Mangroves Hotel & Spa in Abu Dhabi. The suite, which is situated on the top two floors of the hotel, is the largest hotel suite in the Emirate. Offering up to ten king-sized en-suite rooms, a private infinity pool with bar and a rooftop garden, prices start from AED 55,000 (approximately £9,600) per night.

Oman highlights year-round activity breaks & new property launches OMAN IS promoting a range of activities for agents to highlight to clients.

These include golf breaks, particularly in Muscat which now has three 18-hole golf courses, which are popular from September to May. Those looking for a more active holiday can abseil into one of the world’s largest cave chambers, Majlis al Jinn, in Selma Plateau, 100km south-east of Muscat.

Alternatively, clients can drive 4x4s across the Wahiba Sands and stay in luxury accommodation in permanent Hud Hud mobile camps or a basic Bedouin tent.

For clients with an appetite for walking, treks along the W6 at the village of Al Khitaym to the abandoned village of Sab Bani Khamis, offer views of Oman’s Grand Canyon.

Kite-surfing is also growing in popularity, and is available at locations such as Duqm Beach and Masirah Island.

Additionally, Muscat offers a variety of cultural events throughout the year including at the Royal Opera House Muscat (www.rohmuscat.org.om), while a popular way to see the city is via Double Decker Big Bus Tours (www.bigbustours.com).

Meanwhile, more than 2,000 resort and hotel rooms are estimated to have been added in Oman between 2012 and 2013.

New hotel openings this year include the Fraser Place Sohar and the five-star Azaiba Hotel costing $80million. The Azaiba will reportedly have four themed restaurants with multi-level basement parking.

These developments are in addition to luxury hotels that opened last year, including the five-star Juweira Boutique Hotel based at Salalah Beach.

For more information see www.omantourism.gov.om

Hayes & Jarvis reports last minute deals fuel growth for Dubai and Abu Dhabi DUBAI HAS been a star performer in the winter sun market for Hayes and Jarvis, and the operator reports that last minute deals have fuelled demand.

In its recently released Long Haul Trend Report, the company reveals that a 50% increase in bookings for travel to Dubai in the early months of this year has made it the top late availability destination. The rising popularity of short breaks and twin-centre trips combined with the Indian Ocean have also helped Dubai to prosper, while a newer competitor, Abu Dhabi, has also benefited from this and is showing a 73% growth compared with last year.

The company's regional product manager Katie Parsons said: “Dubai is performing extremely well for us at the moment and that is because in addition

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Abu Dhabi

to its attraction as a holiday destination in its own right, it is drawing business as the perfectly placed stopover enroute to beach holidays in the Indian Ocean and elsewhere.

"We have seen a huge increase in bookings since last year and this has

been fuelled by two- or three-night stays in the city. This is just enough time to cream off the best of Dubai – an almost unparalleled shopping experience, a fascinating dip into the culture and heritage of a Middle East city and fantastic food to sample.”

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middleeast Decade of tourism development underway in Qatar QATAR IS one of the fastest growing markets in the Gulf, with business and leisure tourism on the ascendant as the country develops its infrastructure as part of a US$65billion investment plan ahead of its hosting of the 2022 football World Cup. According to Qatar Tourism, the country is entering a sustained decade-long period of development and growth, with more than 85,000 new hotel rooms set to boost current inventory by 2022.

Last year the capital added to its upscale inventory, with the opening of the St Regis Doha and new InterContinental Doha The City, as well as the country’s first Hilton hotel.

A second Four Seasons hotel is currently under development and budget brands are making an appearance with the Premier Inn chain debuting on the city’s outskirts later this year. Currently the luxury segment accounts for between 66 and 78% of supply, while mid-scale and economy supply is between 22 and 34%.

Meanwhile, the destination has a strong presence at this year’s Arabian Travel Market (ATM), with major organisations such as Qatar Tourism Authority, Katara Hospitality and Qatar Airways all participating. The event takes place from May 6-9 and the Seminar Theatre programme will address industry hot topics from developments in the aviation sector, inbound and outbound trends, as well as the development of tourism over the last 20 years.

For more information on Arabian Travel Market 2013 visit www.arabiantravelmarket.com

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Abu Dhabi welcomes launch of Yas Waterworld park THE UK remains Abu Dhabi’s biggest international source market in terms of hotel guests, accounting for 140,393 guest arrivals in 2012.

Last year 2,388,023 guests stayed in Abu Dhabi - beating the emirate’s performance in 2011 by 13%, with UK guests accounting for 611,609 guest nights and staying on average 4.36 nights, placing the UK top of the destination's overseas source market league.

The city is currently promoting its latest

attraction – Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi - the largest waterpark in the UAE which opened recently.

The futuristic waterpark spans an area of around 15 football pitches, and offers 43 rides, slides and attractions.

As examples, visitors can try the 238m hydromagnetic-powered, six-person tornado waterslide, while adrenaline seekers can ride 3m-high waves on flowboards and bodyboards at Bubble’s Barrel.

A NEW terminal at Queen Alia International Airport (QAIA) in Jordan is set to open later this month. Airport International Group (AIG), a Jordanian consortium of companies, has invested $750m in the terminal plus an additional $100m on improving existing facilities at the airport. The terminal is designed to accommodate up to 40% more passengers, with a capacity of nine million passengers per year, while improvements to the airport include an increased range of retail outlets and larger duty-free area, refurbishment of retail space, larger check-in areas, new baggage handling system and security checking, resurfacing of runways and improvements to road traffic flow outside the terminals. It is hoped that the improvements will help fuel an increase in tourism to the country, and the Jordanian government is aiming to double tourism revenue to £3.8billion by 2015.

Jordan goes from strength to strength for Mosaic Holidays MOSAIC HOLIDAYS reports that despite unrest in neighbouring countries, sales to Jordan are increasing thanks, in part, to the draw of Petra.

The company's founder and managing director Sabina Shaida said: "There has been a growth in demand for individually tailored trips. It is when visitors journey beyond Petra that they realise all that this small and fascinating country has to offer, discovering unique scenery and sights such as the ancient city of Jerash, one of the best preserved Greco-Roman Cities in the world and a close second to Petra, plus the Dead Sea and, of course, the dramatic desert landscape of Wadi Rum. "Visitors are also becoming ever more aware of Jordan’s nature and adventure offering; with no less than seven nature reserves managed by the Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature (RSCN), including the Dana Biosphere reserve, the largest of the reserves and Wadi Mujib, the lowest nature reserve in the world located on the east coast of the Dead Sea, providing visitors with the opportunity to take part in activities such as diving, canyoning, hiking, bird-watching, mountain climbing or horse riding, to name a few."

The operator reports that the Red Sea beach resort of Aqaba is also continuing to grow in popularity, with an ever expanding tourism infrastructure for the discerning traveller.

Shaida said: "Aqaba's proximity to Jordan’s most valuable treasure, Petra, makes it the perfect base from which to explore the kingdom, particularly in the winter months, being the main year-round holiday destination in Jordan.

"The small size of the Kingdom also makes it an ideal destination for private touring, combining cultural, religious and historical sightseeing, adventure, luxury, as well as relaxation and pampering on the Red and Dead Seas, all in relatively short time."

As an example of packages, a seven-night private tour of Jordan staying in five-star hotels leads in at £1,339 per person. It includes breakfast accommodation, flights with easyJet and transfers.

For more information or to book call 020-8574 4000 or see www.mosaicholidays.co.uk

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middleeast DTCM announces addition of 4,000 beds in four- & five-star hotels THE DUBAI Department of Tourism and Commence Marketing (DTCM) has announced that over the past 12 months, the destination has seen an overall increase of 6.6% in UK visitor figures.

The total number of UK visitors at the close of last year rose from 643,195 in 2011 to 685,629, and the overall number of guest nights throughout the year rose 11.64% to 3,136,348.

Dubai is currently served by 147 direct weekly flights from the UK; 63 flights depart from Heathrow, 21 from Gatwick and a further 63 from regional airports. As of March 31, Qantas will also operate a twice daily flight to the destination from Heathrow, increasing the overall total to 161 flights per week.

The DTCM's UK & Ireland director Ian Scott said: “Last year proved to be strong for Dubai in terms of visitor numbers, with statistics rising once again for the fourth consecutive quarter. This year will see developments throughout the destination including the addition of 4,000 beds across a range of four- and five-star hotels, 11,000 beds in planning and additional airlift, making the destination even more accessible to the UK consumer.”

For more information visit www.definitelydubai.com

Abu Dhabi hosts Middle East Luxury Travel Show in 2014 THE INAUGURAL Middle East Luxury Travel Show (MELTS) is to be held in the UAE Pavilion on Abu Dhabi’s Saadiyat Island in January next year.

Running from January 26-29, MELTS will also feature a pre-show fam trip, an opening conference, three days of pre-arranged meetings and three evenings of networking across the destination.

Alexandra North from organisers SerenEMC said: “MELTS has been designed to motivate and support the progression of the luxury travel and tourism industry in the Middle East by creating outstanding opportunities for communications, heightened exposure and knowledge enrichment, both on a regional and international level. Together, exhibitors, qualified buyers and global media will explore, discover and connect with the latest trends and opportunities for high-end experiences across the Middle East.”

The Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority is backing MELTS under its Advantage Abu Dhabi incentive scheme, which supports business events which are aligned to the Abu Dhabi government’s 2030 economic vision.

Gillian Taylor, business tourism manager at the tourism authority, said: “Tourism is one of 12 strategic economic categories under which business event organisers can develop proposals for Advantage Abu Dhabi support. The level of support can range from financial grants, governmental endorsement, leadership patronage, cost rebates and marketing support.

“MELTS fits neatly into this target portfolio and is also keenly aligned to Abu Dhabi’s positioning as a luxury destination yet one which is differentiated by its commitment to the preservation and promotion of culture and heritage.”

THE ADVENTURE Company has added a new tour of Jordan to its range of family adventures in the Middle East. The ten-day ‘Canyons & Bedouin Adventures’ tour, specifically for teens and their families, takes visitors to explore the city of Petra, camp Bedouin-style in the Wadi Rum desert, swim in the waters of the Dead Sea, participate in a cooking class and learn to write in Arabic. Prices lead in at £1,389 including flights.

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Discounted Dubai breaks from Funway FUNWAY IS offering 25% off breaks at the five-star Palm Tree Court & Spa in Dubai on an all-inclusive basis.

Prices start from £799 per person based on two adults sharing for a June 15 arrival, including direct flights with Qantas.

For more information see www.funway4agents.co.uk

Rotana to open three new hotels in the next six months

Majestic Arjaan, Bahrain

ROTANA IS continuing its Middle East expansion with three new hotels, set to open in the next six months in Bahrain, Amman and Iraq.

The company’s president and CEO Selim El Zyr said: “These three new properties are part of our extended expansion plans.

We are continuing our growth of the four Rotana brands by expanding into the new territories of Bahrain and Jordan and increasing our presence in Iraq. With the launch of the first five-star hotel in one of the world's largest pilgrimage destinations, Karbala in Iraq, it is an exciting time for us."

The new developments include the Majestic Arjaan Hotel in Bahrain, which offers 128 apartments consisting of either one-, two- and three-bedrooms; the Boulevard Arjaan in Amman, Jordan, which features 398 fully-furnished apartments; and the fivestar Karbala Rayhaan in Iraq, an alcohol-free property which offers 200 rooms and suites.

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all-inclusive Casuarina Beach Resort, Barbados

Couples Resorts offers agents the chance to win a trip to Barbados COUPLES RESORTS is on schedule to open its first property in Barbados this summer and is offering agents the chance to join in the celebrations by winning a stay at the resort.

The company took over the management of the 280-room Casuarina Beach Resort in February, which will be renamed Couples

Barbados. Upgrades include new décor and amenities in public areas and guest rooms, a new pool and Jacuzzi, a new spa and salon, a gym with a designated yoga gazebo and a new piano bar/lounge.

The company is offering agents a free week’s stay for two people at the resort for every four bookings that they

Mauritius breaks from £639 from Heritage Resorts HERITAGE RESORTS is offering all-inclusive stays in Mauritius from £639 per person for seven nights.

The Awali Golf and Spa Resort is a four-and-a-halfstar property that offers four restaurants, imported drinks, unlimited Champagne and additional bonuses including a free one-hour spa treatment and unlimited green fees.

Prices lead in at £639 per person (£1,399 with flights) for seven nights in a deluxe room.

Alternatively, the fivestar Le Telfair Golf and Spa Resort offers a ‘Gourmet Bliss’ package from £1,099

per person (£1,882 with flights) for seven nights. A member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World, the French-colonial style resort is a popular destination for honeymoons due to its sea view suites, private balconies and personal butlers. The price includes access to ten restaurants on the Domaine, unlimited premium branded drinks plus access to all facilities.

Both offers are valid for bookings made before March 29 for travel between May 1 and September 30, and are based on two people sharing.

make. In addition, £30 Love2Shop vouchers are offered for every booking made, as well as offers for holidaymakers including up to 40% discounts plus a £500 ‘air credit’ for every couple booking.

For more information and to complete the company’s training module see www.resortacademy.co.uk

C by Caribtours offers affordable luxury THE C by Caribtours programme offers 46 of the company’s favourite affordable Caribbean holidays, many of them allinclusive.

As examples, seven nights at the Larimar Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic leads in at £1,065 per person for two adults sharing a deluxe tropical view room.

Alternatively, seven nights at the Moon Palace Golf & Spa Resort in Mexico costs from £1,239 per person based on two sharing a resort view deluxe room. Both trips include flights and transfers.

For more information see www.caribtours.co.uk

Funway adds five-star Thailand property FROM APRIL 1, the five-star Anantara Golden Triangle Resort & Spa in Chiang Rai, Thailand will become fully inclusive.

Funway is offering stays from £329 per person per night which includes a bespoke activity such as a spa treatment, elephant or mahout training, a three-hour country tour or a cookery class.

For details see www.funway4agents.co.uk or call 0844-557 3131.

Saint Lucia highlights selection of all-inclusive resorts for couples and families SAINT LUCIA offers a range of all-inclusive resorts for both couples and families.

Examples include the Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa (www.cbayresortuk.com), which offers 250 rooms, four dining options, six bars, four swimming pools, a full-service oceanfront spa, CocoLand Kidz Klub and the island’s largest water park.

Alternatively, the St. James Club Morgan Bay Resort & Spa (www.morganbayresort.com) is set in 25 acres of tropical gardens overlooking the Caribbean Sea and is located minutes from the Rodney Bay Marina, the Cap Restate Golf Course and the capital city of Castries. The resort is also

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close to the Pigeon Point National Park, home to St. Lucia’s annual jazz festival. From kayaking to fishing on the reef, guests can also experience a range of water sports at the resort.

Other examples include the Rendezvous resort (www.theromanticholiday.com), which is dedicated to couples, while the Smugglers Cove Resort & Spa (www.smugglersresort.com) is suitable for couples and families who are fans of both watersports and spa treatments.

Saint Lucia is easily accessed from the UK with ten weekly non-stop flights from Gatwick to Saint Lucia Hewanorra Airport, operated by BA and Virgin Atlantic.

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Value Redefined ...

The Firs t Premium All-Inclusive Resor t in Maldives‌

Lily B each Resor t & Spa a t Hu vahendhoo Sou th Ar i Atoll, The Maldives Tel: +960 668 0 0 13 | Fax: +960 668 06 46 | sales@lily beachmaldives.com | w w w.lily beachmaldives.com

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all-inclusive Seven nights for the price of five at Curtain Bluff, Antigua CURTAIN BLUFF, a fivestar family-run resort in Antigua, is offering seven nights’ stay for the price of five.

The resort, which offers two beaches and tropical gardens, is suitable for families and offers a range of inclusive activities.

Watersports such as twice-daily snorkelling trips, hobi-cat sailing, water skiing lessons, bananaboating, windsurfing, kayaking and scuba diving (PADI required) are offered, alongside the use of the tennis and squash courts plus the gym, including classes. There is also a 5,000ft spa with a hot tub.

The seven-night for the price of five offer is available through ITC Classics and costs from £7,199 per family, saving £1,680. This is based on two adults and one child sharing a Junior Suite on an all-inclusive basis, including BA Economy flights from Gatwick and private transfers. The deal is valid for travel between May 12 and July 26.

For more information call 01244-355527 or visit www.itcclassics.co.uk

Shearings promotes coach/air all-inclusive deals SHEARINGS IS offering all-inclusive itineraries complete with coach or air travel.

A nine-day trip to Malgrat, Spain, costs from £319 and includes excursions to Barcelona, Costa Brava and the Blanes market.

Also included are six nights’ accommodation with buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as daily snacks and local drinks between 10:00 and midnight, plus overnight coach travel.

The holiday is also available as an eight-day/seven-night holiday by air from £399. Departures are available from May to October. Alternatively, eight days in Lake

Como staying at the Hotel Britannia Excelsior is available from £579 by air or £679 by coach.

New features for 2013 include the Rospo Water Shuttle Service that takes guests across the lake to Bellagio free of charge, as well as a floating swimming pool in the hotel.

The price includes seven nights’ accommodation, flight or coach travel and transfers.

The holiday is also available as a tenday break by coach from £679, or a nineday break by express coach from £479.

For more information visit www.shearingsagent.com

Palm Beach Benidorm offers free theme park entry on Fun Package GUESTS BOOKING a week’s all-inclusive stay in a double/twin room at Palm Beach Hotel Benidorm will receive free entry to selected theme parks as part of its Fun Package.

Eligible for those staying a minimum of seven nights between June and September, guests will receive unlimited free entry at the Terramitca, Mundomar or Aqualandia theme parks.

In June, Fun Package prices start from £46.58 per person per night.

For more information see www.freshholidays.com

All-inclusive resorts attract holidaymakers to Red Sea, says poll ACCORDING TO a recent online poll by YouGov, all-inclusive resorts are the second biggest draw for holidaymakers considering a trip to the Red Sea. In the survey of 2,035 people, commissioned by Orascom Hotels & Development, 44% of respondents cited all-inclusive resorts as one of their three main reasons for holidaying in Red Sea resorts such as El Gouna and Taba Heights.

Sunshine was voted as the top reason by 67% of those surveyed, while value for money came in third with 35%.

With this in mind, Holiday Designers is offering a seven-night holiday at the four-star Mosaique Hotel in El Gouna from £645 per person, departing Gatwick on May 17. Prices include flights, airport tax, baggage, transfers and accommodation and is based on two people sharing a standard room.

For more information call 020-3384 0023 or visit www.holiday-designers.com

MARK WARNER is offering a seven-night all-inclusive stay at the Sea Garden Resort near Bodrum, Turkey from £929 per person, departing on June 1. The resort offers a range of activities including watersports and mountain biking, and the price includes flights with BA, transfers, watersports and childcare for children aged two years and over.

For more information call 0844-273 6796 or visit www.markwarner.co.uk

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all-inclusive We asked our staff the following question this week: What's your ideal Saturday night?

CLUB MED has opened its second resort in China, the 330-room four-trident Guilin Resort. Located in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, guests have the opportunity to learn indoor and outdoor flying trapeze, yoga, tai chi, golf and cookery. The resort also offers three swimming pools, children’s clubs and a variety of restaurants, plus a spa that offers 15 treatment rooms. Prices start from £1,849 per person based on two sharing a double room for seven days, including flights and transfers.

For more information visit www.clubmed.co.uk

Publisher: Jeanette Ratcliffe jeanette.ratcliffe@travelbulletin.co.uk Drinks in the pub followed by a hot curry!

Editor: Lauretta Wright lauretta.wright@travelbulletin.co.uk A nice bottle of Rioja, good TV and late-night chatting with my better half

Assistant Editor: Jill Sayles jill.sayles@travelbulletin.co.uk

Club Med Guilin

Cinema, dinner and drinks followed by a party or a gig

Contributing Editor: Paul Scudamore post@travelbulletin.co.uk Dinner and "good" TV at home, then meet chums at the local

Sales Director: Simon Eddolls simon.eddolls@travelbulletin.co.uk Following a good win at cricket, a couple of social beers etc.

Advertisement Manager: Tim Podger tim.podger@travelbulletin.co.uk Beer, pool & watch the footy

Online Sales Manager: Nick Boocock nick.boocock@travelbulletin.co.uk The one when the clocks go back and you get an extra hour!

Account Manager: Bill Coad bill.coad@travelbulletin.co.uk Going out for food & wine and getting back home in time for Match of the Day

Sales Executive: Chris Gascoine chris.gascoine@travelbulletin.co.uk

The Residence Zanzibar launches new all-inclusive package THE RESIDENCE Zanzibar has launched a new all-inclusive package for this year.

The 66 all-villa hotel is offering a seven-night package including all meals, premium branded drinks, a mini-bar, snorkelling excursions and yoga sessions. Also included is the use of the fitness centre, sauna and hammam, as well as non-motorised watersports, tennis, bicycles, access to the DVD library and Wi-fi. Each villa features its own private terrace, swimming pool and butler service.

Rainbow Tours is offering a seven-night package from £3,620 per person, offering a saving of £200 on the brochure price. It is based on two sharing a luxury garden suite with flights from London to Zanzibar (via Nairobi, Kenya) and transfers, and is valid for travel until March 14, from June 1-30 and between September 1 and October 31.

For further details see www.theresidence.com/zanzibar

Good Food, Good Company and Good Red Wine

Sales Executive: Matt Gill matt.gill@travelbulletin.co.uk With my best pals, having a meal, then going to a decent bar in Brighton!

Senior Designer: Genaro Santos genaro.santos@alaincharles.com Eating jelly beans on the night bus

GRAND UK Holidays has added all-inclusive holidays on the Costa del Sol and Croatia to its programme. Spanish trips are based at the Fuengirola Park Hotel and include flights from Gatwick or Stansted to Malaga, with prices from £399 per person for eight days or £599 per person for 14 days. Meanwhile, the new Dubrovnik and a Taste of Montenegro holidays offer flights from Gatwick and Stansted and cost from £499 per person for eight days, including a full-day excursion to Montenegro.

For details see www.grandukholidays.com

Assistant Designer: Nicky Valsamakis nicky.valsamakis@alaincharles.com Diving for oysters in the Thames

Production: Jeremy Walters production@travelbulletin.co.uk Good food, great friends, lots of laughs

Circulation Manager: Jim Merchant post@travelbulletin.co.uk 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: Wyndeham Grange Limited Subscriptions are £105 p.a. £155 overseas ISSN: 0956-2419

Follow us on Twitter! @TravelBulletin

puzzlesolutions Travagrams: (top) Al Fresco Holidays

(bottom) Chiang Mai

Where Am I?: Dubrovnik

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WALT DISNEY WORLD RESORT IN FLORIDA

BY FUNWAY 2013

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