Travel Bulletin 4th July 2014 by Alain Charles Publishing

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July 4 2014 | ISSUE NO 1,879 | www.travelbulletin.co.uk

Weddings & Honeymoons Help plan your clients' dream weddings by promoting new destinations & offers

this week

agent bulletin training updates plus the latest agent offers

event bulletin images from our Online Training Showcase in Manchester

17 spain operators unveil new programme additions & special offers

pacific islands a round-up of new programmes, exclusive deals & new launches

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newsbulletin

This Week

Cover Pictures: Main - The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi, Maldives

Inset - Hotel Tres, Palma

news a round-up of this week's industry announcements & reports

notes from normanton

agent bulletin

puzzle bulletin

bulletin briefing

find out how Sandy's trip to Gouves went training updates plus the latest agent offers play Su Doku for a chance to win a £50 Love2Shop voucher from Voyages-sncf news & views from Elite Travel Group

event bulletin images from our Online Training Showcase in Manchester

agent review

spain

21 27

find out what one agent thought of her C&M voyage

operators unveil new programme additions & special offers

weddings & honeymoons help plan your clients' dream wedding by promoting new destinations & offers

pacific islands a round-up of new programmes, exclusive deals & new launches

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MACMILLAN MATES...Balkan Holidays recently hosted two educationals for travel agents departing from Edinburgh and the North of England to visit the Black Sea holiday resorts of Sunny Beach, Sozopol and Nessebar. During the trip, agents were invited to take part in some fundraising activities for MacMillan Cancer Support, the operator's nominated charity. Pictured enjoying the sights are, from the left: Nicola Jenkins, Thomas Cook Pontefract; Emma Jackson, Humberside Airport Travel; Joe Goacher, Thomson Chesterfield; Jayne Parsonage, Thomas Cook Hull; Mat Brown, Thomas Cook Scarborough; Gill Sharpe, Lincoln Coop Grimsby; Gaynor Bates, Thomas Cook Bury; Riah Hornby, Cooperative Travel Salford; Stephanie Gaskgill, Cooperative Travel Bolton; Janice Staley, Thomson Wickersley; Kaydie Cariss, Wallace Arnold Bradford; Sally Bond, Cooperative Travel Hull; Susan Sweeting, Thomson Alfreton; and Jane Pyne, Cooperative Travel Sheffield.

For details visit www.balkanholidays.co.uk/agents

New 'Fly Now Pay Later' service from TravelFund TRAVELFUND, A travel technology company, has launched a new service, Fly Now Pay Later, which allows customers to take their holiday before they pay in full for it. The company is targeting to fund around 130,000 holidays over the next 18 months, and the new service will allow customers to open an instant credit account of up to £2,000 to fund their holiday with travel brands that consumers know and trust. They can use their credit account to pay for individual holiday elements, such as flights or hotels or a combination, or a tailored holiday package. The service means that holidaymakers can spread the cost of their holiday over a period of up to 12 months from the time of booking, with no hidden costs and no redemption penalties for early repayments and overpayments. The APR rate will depend upon the individual’s credit score and risk profile, with the majority expected to incur a rate of around 19.9%. This largely reflects the rates of credit cards and personal overdrafts, and is expected to fall as the product is better understood. Agents will initially need to make their clients' holiday bookings through TravelPack, and the loan funding will be provided by APS, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority as a consumer lender.

The new service will offer travel agents, operators, airlines, hotel booking and villa websites a new software-as-a-service (SaaS) platform to help increase conversion rates, deliver incremental revenues and reduce online payment transaction costs significantly. The paperless platform fits into travel operators’ existing booking processes, is easy to integrate, run in real time and will help customers to more effectively plan their holiday. This can help increase tour operators’ revenues and profitability because customers can easily upgrade their room or hotel, extend their holiday or book additional excursions. Operators will receive the full balance of the holiday at the time of booking; the service uses payment card technology to pay its travel partners so authorisation and settlement flow through operators’ existing channels, making integrating simple and at virtually zero cost. The company's CEO, Jasper Dykes, said: “Our service is a first for the UK market giving hard-pressed consumers a new, very affordable option to pay for their holidays, giving them a greater ability to make this discretionary lifestyle purchase. We are partnering with a responsible FCA-authorised lender and payments provider, offering financial protection, flexible repayment terms and no transaction fees."

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newsbulletin Moroccan additions from Anatolian Sky Holidays ANATOLIAN SKY Holidays has announced the launch of a new brochure for 2014/15 featuring an updated programme of holidays to Morocco, Egypt and Jordan. The portfolio has been further improved with the addition of a new tailor-made option, as well as new boutique and riad style hotels.

Old favourites still remain, with a large selection of tailor-made holidays to Marrakech and the Atlas Mountains, and a wide choice of hotels in Casablanca and on the beaches of Essaouira. As examples, a seven-night, tailormade holiday combining Essaouira and Agadir costs from £729 per

person, while a threenight stay at the Riad Capaldi Hotel in Marrakech, which features just seven rooms, leads in at £709. Prices are based on two adults sharing and include flights from a selection of UK airports For more information visit www.anatoliansky.co.uk or call 0844-273 3585.

Big Kids campaign from Cosmos promotes family fun in Florida COSMOS HOLIDAYS has launched a new campaign to promote Florida as the ultimate family holiday location for summer 2015, and aims to showcase the breadth of the operator's holiday experience by positioning Florida as a destination for ‘Big kids and the little ones too’. The campaign, created by the operator’s agency, WDMP, uses both social media and a DM to broaden the reach of the campaign and to drive prospects to a competition on Facebook. A brochure style direct mail piece uses imagery from the operator's partners - including Universal Studios, Walt Disney World and SeaWorld – to capture the highlights

of some of Florida’s new rides and attractions including Harry Potter World. A competition on Facebook offers the chance to win a family trip to Florida, where participants are invited to dig out old, memorable photos from family holidays or days out and recreate them today. Both photos are then uploaded to the company's Florida Facebook page and the photo with the most likes will win the holiday. Other social channels including Twitter are also being used to create awareness of the competition and help kickstart activity around the Florida campaign.

New report reveals pump prices plummet across European petrol stations

AYE AYE CAPTAIN...The Hoseasons boating team recently hosted an agent’s fam trip on the Worcester to Birmingham Canal. Pictured enjoying the ride are the operator's Sas Rowbotham (back), with Lynn Davis (left) from Midcounties Coop and Nicola Malone, Personal Travel Advisor.

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LOWER PRICES in European petrol stations mean that UK tourists on continental motoring holidays can expect their cars to drive more miles for less cash this year. Fuelled by the strong pound, pump prices have fallen in 20 of 22 countries surveyed for the eighth annual Post Office Travel Money Motoring on the Continent report. The biggest fall in the cost of unleaded petrol and diesel fuel has been in France, where the litre price is down 23p for unleaded and 24p for diesel. France is one of nine countries where local pump prices have also fallen yearon-year, helping to boost the benefit to UK drivers. A combination of cheaper fuel and the strong pound means UK tourists can expect to pay 15% less for unleaded petrol (£1.26) and 18% less for diesel (£1.08) at French pumps. This means that 1,000 miles of motoring through France will cost £45 less than last year in a car using unleaded petrol (£191) and £47 less for diesel drivers (£163). Prices are also down this year in two other European destinations popular with UK holiday motorists – Spain and Ireland. In Spain, where 38% said they have driven, pump prices are down 6p a litre for unleaded (£1.18) and 5p for diesel fuel (£1.11). Three-in-ten motorists surveyed for the report had driven in Ireland, where a litre of unleaded petrol is 13p cheaper (£1.28). For the third year running, the Post Office survey found that fuel is cheapest in Andorra – £1.04 for unleaded petrol (down 8p) and 94p for diesel (down 6p). By comparison, the Netherlands was 45% more expensive for unleaded fuel (£1.51). Fuel prices across Europe can be compared at www.postoffice.co.uk/holidaymotoring2014

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newsbulletin Carnival Miracle to launch year-round Mexican Riviera sailings CARNIVAL CRUISE Lines has made two enhancements to its West Coast cruise operations, deploying two Spirit-class ships featuring a variety of Fun Ship 2.0 innovations as well as a wide selection of balcony staterooms. The new deployments include Carnival Miracle introducing yearround, seven-day Mexican Riviera departures from Long Beach, beginning in October, and Carnival Legend operating the line’s Alaska programme from Seattle in May 2015. Miracle and Legend will also offer four Hawaii cruises in 2015/16. Carnival Legend recently underwent an extensive makeover that added a range of new features, including WaterWorks highlighted by Green Thunder, the fastest and steepest water attraction at sea, and the RedFrog Pub, a Caribbeaninspired watering hole serving the line’s private label draught brew, ThirstyFrog Red. A full-service Bonsai Sushi restaurant offering Asian specialties and Cherry On Top, a confections and novelty store, have also been added. Carnival Miracle also offers a wide range of innovations, including the Serenity adults-only retreat featuring

its own pool and full bar service, the Punchliner Comedy Club presented by George Lopez with up to 20 family friendly and adults-only shows each week, a wedding chapel, a 14,500sq. ft health and wellness facility, and an enclosed corkscrew water slide. Miracle will also undergo a dry dock in March 2015 that will add a variety of additional Fun Ship 2.0 features. Both vessels offer fun, supervised programs for children aged two-17, as well as nearly 850 ocean view and balcony staterooms. Meanwhile, Carnival Miracle will introduce year-round Mexican Riviera cruising from Long Beach on October 4. The programme will encompass three different week-long itineraries, including a new threeport, seven-day cruise featuring Mazatlán on the majority of departures. In addition to the call in Mazatlán, a new three-port itinerary will feature the Mexican resort destinations of Cabo San Lucas and Puerto Vallarta. Miracle’s year-round schedule from Long Beach also includes two other itinerary options. The first is a seven-day, two-port itinerary that features a stop in Cabo San Lucas, along with a two-day overnight stay

in Puerto Vallarta. The second alternate itinerary includes a visit to Puerto Vallarta, along with a two-day call at Cabo San Lucas, known for its white-sand beaches, turquoise waters and the distinctive El Arco (The Arch), a 30-foot-high rock formation where the Pacific Ocean joins the Sea of Cortez. Following its inaugural season in Australia, Legend will operate the line’s seasonal Alaska programme beginning in May 2015. In total, 16 week-long Alaska cruises will operate from the Port of Seattle from May 26 to September 8, 2015, departing each Tuesday. Port calls on the voyages include the Alaskan towns of Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan, as well as Victoria and cruising Tracy Arm Fjord or sailing Glacier Bay. Carnival Legend will also operate a special one-off eight-day Glacier Bay voyage departing Vancouver on May 18 and arriving in Seattle on May 26, 2015. A wide range of shore excursions – from helicopter flightseeing and rainforest canopy tours to hiking, canoeing and kayaking expeditions – are also available. For further information visit www.carnival.co.uk

Late savings with Wendy Wu Tours WENDY WU Tours is offering discounts of between £150 and £250 per person for late travel offers. As examples, clients can save £150 on a nine-day In Pursuit of Pandas tour, which visits the Great Wall and the Forbidden City in Beijing, the Terracotta Warriors of Xian and the Panda Conservation Centre in Chengdu. July 26 departures cost from £2,140 per person including the saving and based on a fully inclusive basis including flights, transport, accommodation, meals, tour guides, entrance fees and visa fees for UK/EU passport holders.

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Meanwhile, savings of up to £250 are avaialable on a 26-day Grand Tour of China. Visits to Beijing, Xian, Chengdu, Dali, Guilin, Hangzhou and Shanghai are featured on the itinerary, as well as a four-night cruise on the Yangtze River and a twoday cruise on the Li River. August 6 and 20 departures cost from £3,440 on a fully inclusive basis including flights, transport, accommodation, meals, tour guides, entrance fees and visa fees for UK/EU passport holders. For more information or to book see www.wendywutours.co.uk or call 0844-875 2436.

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newsbulletin Tweets of the Week Who’s saying what on Twitter... @VisitGuernsey Summer shows, food festivals and town carnivals... Check out what's on during your stay in Guernsey! http://ow.ly/yrmmV

@contikiuk Everyone meet Esperanza - the newest competitor in @conserveturtles Tour de Turtle program >> http://conti.ki/TzAjXV @canadanim #HappyBirthday CN Tower : 20 years since the world's first glass floor experience. http://ow.ly/vNAG7 #ExploreCanada @UK_CAA Aviation health FAQs: Are you more likely to pick up an infection when flying? Sort the facts from the myths here http://bit.ly/1jTTBMT @TallBaldPaul Another seamless and straight forward holiday booked with @Hoseasons used them for years and always deliver. Thanks folks.

BANGKOK AIRWAYS, in collaboration with Dusit Island Resort Chiang Rai, has introduced a special offer for its passengers, with a free upgrade from Superior to Deluxe Room and free airport transfers. Available until October 31, passengers will receive an upgrade when presenting their boarding pass at airport check-in, while the free transfers can be arranged directly with Dusit Island Resort Chiang Rai. For more information visit www.bangkokair.com

SuperBreak offers packages for White Christmas musical SUPERBREAK NOW has packages on sale for the West End premiere of Irving Berlin’s musical White Christmas this winter. Opening at the Dominion Theatre on November 12 for a strictly limited eightweek season, the cast will be led by Aled Jones, who is making his West End musical theatre debut, and Tom Chambers. Packages include tickets to the show and overnight accommodation and are fully commissionable to agents. Irving Berlin’s White Christmas tells the story of two ex-army pals as they team up with a pair of sisters to put on a show to save their former General’s remote Vermont ski lodge that has fallen on hard times. At the Dominion Theatre, a 17-piece orchestra will accompany the cast in some of musical history’s best loved songs, including Let Yourself Go, Sisters, The Best Things Happen When You’re Dancing, Snow, Count Your Blessings, Blue Skies,

Love You Didn’t Do Right By Me, How Deep Is The Ocean, I’ve Got My Love To Keep Me Warm and White Christmas. Packages lead in from £110 per person staying at the three-star President Hotel with breakfast and including a ticket to the show. For more information or to book see www.superbreak.com/agents or call 01904-436000.

2015 Lakes & Mountains preview brochure launch from Inghams INGHAMS HAS launched its newly designed Lakes & Mountains 2015 preview programme, with prices starting at £474 per person for a week's half-board stay at the four-star Ramada Hotel in Kranjska Gora, Slovenia. With 108 resorts in Europe and North America to choose from, the summer programme offers a comprehensive range of ‘Inghams Plus’ added value offers and early booking savings of up to £600 per

couple, as well as a range of complimentary extras, available exclusively to guests. New for summer 2015 are two resorts – Champoluc, Italy situated in the Monte Rosa region, offering walking routes, and the Austrian village of Bad Kleinkirchheim, ideal for a relaxing mountain break. Highlights include new Half Board Plus holidays including wine with dinner, afternoon tea and free packed lunches; a free

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walking map to help plan days out in the hills (selected holidays) for bookings made by September 30; free bike hire at many hotels; a halfprice travel card in Switzerland; free guided walks offered by many hotels; and no additional supplement for single occupancy. As well as two new resorts, the operator has expanded its popular chalet and chalet hotel range to include two new properties the newly refurbished fourand-a-half-star Chalet Hotel

Breithorn, situated in the unspoilt village of Champoluc, Italy; and in Austria, the four-star Chalet Hotel Pinzgauerhof, located in the picturesque village of Hinterglemm. Prices start from £499 per person, including flights from Gatwick, transfers and seven nights’ catered accommodation. Regional flights are available at a supplement. For more information visit www.inghams.co.uk/agents or call 01483-791111.

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TRAVELPORT HAS launched an upgraded version of its Travelport Mobile Agent (TMA) tool introducing a range of new features and functionality for its agency users. The mobile app which was developed in partnership with TTS, an active member of the Travelport Developer Network, allows travel agents to make bookings for their customers from handheld devices. FRED. OLSEN Cruise Lines has signed a new partnership agreement with Saga Holidays, to promote and sell its cruises. Saga will have allocations on a range of the line's 2014/15 cruises across its fleet of four ships – Balmoral, Braemar, Boudicca and Black Watch – focusing on products that do not compete directly with Saga cruises, from a number of regional ports around the UK. PEGASUS AIRLINES has launched Pegasus Trip Finder for guests to search for a variety of travel destinations according to their chosen budget and dates of travel. The new travel planning tool gives users recommended destinations according to their stated budget and dates of travel. It can be filtered according to the type of holiday desired, with options including Gourmet, Beach, Arts & Culture and Shopping. THE GUATEMALA Tourist Board has launched a new programme to attract more visitors to the Peten region in the north of the country through the development of new facilities and the promotion of tourism products such as the Carmelita-El Mirador circuit and the new Maya Trek. The region is home to the Maya Biosphere Reserve, the largest protected area in Guatemala occupying 19% of the national territory, as well as important Maya sites like Tikal.

PRAGUE PALS...Kirker Holidays hosted a fam ahead of the AITO Agents’ conference in Prague. Pictured visiting Chateau Mcely, a one-hour drive from Prague are, from the left: (back row) Hazel Bryant, Travel with Kitts; Mike Coombs, Kirker Holidays; Paul Cusack, Cockermouth Travel; Hisham Mahmoud, Kirker Holidays; Andrew Brownrigg, Haslemere Travel; and Martyn Fisher, Greenstar Travel; with (front row) Russell Peake and Frances Peake, Peakes Travel; Tea Rojnic, Chateau Mcely; Karen Carpenter, Travel PR; Di Brownrigg, Haslemere Travel; and Eddie Kyle, Kyle Travel.

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newsbulletin Ethos Marketing adds Botswana reserve to portfolio with two featured camps

Notes from . . . n o t n a m r o N ’M BACK from Gouves and had a great time meeting old friends and eating at my favourite restaurant called Paradise. I paid for half-board at the Kaissa Beach Apartments, but I wanted to eat out at the local restaurants too otherwise they are just going to close down and it is sad to see that happen. As I sat at my table (Shirley Valentine) overlooking the sea, everyone walking past seemed to have different coloured wrist bands on as more hotels are doing all-inclusive. I know people are hard up, but by going all-inclusive on Greek Islands, Croatia etc, they are missing out on meeting the locals and eating out in some great family run restaurants. I was trying to find out information for the Greek Cat Welfare Society (GCWS) regarding vets and local people willing to help. I found it a bit hard work at first, especially waiting for people to come back to me. I managed to get Shadow and Lipstick neutered which turned out to be a bit of a trauma. Bev a lovely lady - who has lived in Crete for 13 years and used to work for Cosmos - brought cat traps to take them to a vet in Agios Nikolaos. I think I came out second with the battle to catch them as the poor things were terrified and Shadow managed to dig her claws in and give me a good bite on the fleshy part of my thumb. Anyway, they were vaccinated and micro-chipped, and because they had been pregnant the vet wanted to keep them in 48 hours to make sure they were well hydrated and eating before leaving. A couple of families there will feed them now and I’d love to go back in September to get another two or four done. But at least it is one small step started and they should have a healthier life. The GCWS and other animal charities do an amazing job. One of the things they would like to encourage is cat restaurants/stations in some of the hotels so that stray cats can be fed and then neutered – so I think I might be chasing a few tour operators! One of the ladies who helps animals had two 17-day old black Labrador girl pups dumped at her gate, so she is busy feeding them and is looking to rehome them in England or Greece. Let me know if you are interested and I’ll send pics!

by SANDRA MURRAY in Normanton, Yorkshire

ETHOS MARKETING has added Mashatu - Botswana’s largest private game reserve and renowned ‘Land of Giants’ to its portfolio. Mashatu’s resident giants include the world’s largest mammal, tallest mammal, largest antelope, largest bird and heaviest flying bird. Mashatu also offers more than 700 elephants – Africa’s largest population on private land and is a birders’ paradise with more than 350 species. The reserve encompasses 72,000 acres of wilderness in the Northern Tuli Game Reserve in Eastern Botswana. Bordering South Africa and Zimbabwe, it forms the heart of the proposed Greater Mapungubwe Transfrontier Conservation Area, famous for its Iron Age ruins of 900AD. Mashatu offers the exclusive Mashatu Tented Camp which features eight ensuite tents and Mashatu Main Camp which has 14 air-conditioned suites that each accommodate up to four people sharing. Both camps are located in the bush and offer a swimming pool, bar, terrace, lounge, dining area and boma. Mashatu Main Camp welcomes children of all ages and offers a specialised programme as well as a unique Discovery Room that entertains and educates young visitors. The property also offers adventure safaris on foot, horseback or mountain bike, with the option to camp overnight at Kgotla - Mashatu’s ‘under the stars’ boma in the bush. For more information see www.mashatu.com

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WEBSCLUSIVES ●

Win a pair of round-trip Economy Class tickets from London to Brazil in Condor’s World Cup competition. Enter today at www.travelbulletin.co.uk/competitions

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Win a £50 M&S Voucher with Air Malta. Visit www.travelbulletin.co.uk/competitions

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Last chance to win a fab World Cup hamper with Jetset’s Road To Rio competition. Goodies include GStar Raw vouchers, champagne, Belgian chocolates and more. Go to www.travelbulletin.co.uk/competitions

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Devise a new slogan for the China National Tourist Office for the chance to win an iPad Mini. Enter your creative suggestion at www.travelbulletin.co.uk/competitions

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Win an iPod Shuffle courtesy of the Innsbruck Tourist Office. Enter today at 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 incentive ●

REMEMBER SHERBET dips and family trips to the British seaside? Bourne Leisure is helping agents remember the good old days with its ‘Sweet Summer Giveaways’ campaign. Agents who send their customers to make sweet new memories this July, August or September can claim a £5 Love2Shop voucher for every minimum three-night booking at any of the company's three brands Butlins, Haven and Warner Leisure Hotels - running until August 31. The company also has £1,000 worth of vouchers to giveaway over ten weeks plus ten retro sweet hampers. Agents can enter the weekly prize draw for free by claiming their voucher. Every week, agents will have the opportunity to win a £100 Love2Shop voucher or a retro sweet hamper. Agents can book online at www.bourneleisuresales.co.uk

Agent offers IF ONLY... has launched an exclusive ‘Trav el Agents Only’ offer for a six-day Golden Triangle tour. Valid from now until September 30, the tour is conducted in a private car with driver and includes six nights' accommo dation in a selection of five-star ITC hotels. Admission and guid es at the major attractions, as well as an elephant ride at Jaipur and rickshaw ride in Old Delhi are also inclu ded. Highlights include the Taj Mahal, the Amber Fort and colonial Delhi. Prices start from £359 per person and the offer is available exclusively for travel agents and their spouse, partner or companion, and excludes flights to Delh i (the starting point of the tour). A number of alternative prod ucts and add-ons are also available. FOR EVERY confirmed seven-night book ing made at the Canary Islands' Hotel Jardin Tecina in La Gomera, agents will receive one free night on a half-board basis for themselves. The offer is based on two adults sharing a twin/double room and qualifying agents can take the brea k at any time from the date of issue, valid for one year. The offer is subject to availability and excludes peak periods such as Christmas, New Year and Easter. The prize excludes flights. Details of bookings should be emailed to evars@fredolsen.es by November 15. DESIGN HOTELS is offering a special trave l agent promotion, with more than 120 member hotels awar ding 15% commission on their Best Available Rate s. The offer is valid for GDS bookings with arrivals until Augu st 31. The promotion also includes numerous bene fits for clients, ranging from complimentary breakfast and Wi-Fi to a shuttle service and discounted spa treatments. The hotel can be booked via a number of operators inclu ding Fred.\, Classic Collection and Prestige. For details see www.designhotels.com/ commission

Training update s

SATOA IS hosting a Tour Operator Dinn er on July 15 in Chester an d a Travel Agent Dinn er on July 16 in Leeds. SATOA's AGM also ta kes place on July 30. For details call 0844-8 80 2421 or email info@satoa.co m

BRITAIN’S WORST Holiday Photographer 2014 has been revealed. Grandma, Jayne Boorman from Pembur y won the dubious honour from CheapHolidayLand .com . The picture was taken on a family trip to Disney World in Florida to see a character called Duffy the Disney Bear. Jayne’s grandson is called Duffy and the family went there especially to meet the bear. www.travelbulletin.co.uk

BRAND USA has launc hed a new Cirque du Soleil specialist module on its USA Discovery Pr ogram. The module teaches agents all the essent ial information about th e shows, which offer hig hquality artistic enter tainment, and current ly present 19 unique sh ows around the world with nine permanent show s in Las Vegas and Orlando. The new mo dule joins eight exist ing modules including Bi g City Buzz, Great Ou tdo ors, Winter Sports, Coastal Escapes, Music, Cultu re & Heritage, Fly-Drive, Food & Drink, Family Holidays; as well as the Regional Expert badge, which users must co mplete initially. For details visit www. usadiscoveryprogram .co.uk

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newsbulletin Winter savings of up to £100 on festive trips to Asia with Travel Indochina TRAVEL INDOCHINA is encouraging agents and their customers to beat the rush and book their Christmas holidays now to take advantage of better availability and savings on a winter escape to Asia. And as an early stocking filler, the company is offering discounts of £100 per person on all

Small Group Journeys incorporating Christmas Day, if booked by July 12. As examples, a 16-day Vietnam Discovery holiday leads in at £2,635 per person, departing Heathrow with Qatar Airways on December 13, while a 14-day Burma Revealed option costs from £3,225, departing Heathrow

with Qatar Airways on December 14. In addition to the £100 savings, all customers travelling on a Small Group Journey will benefit from the combination of a Western tour leader and local Englishspeaking guides, while solo travellers can benefit from greater savings by taking up

the operator’s ‘willing to share’ option and travelling at twin share prices. To assist agents with promoting the Christmas departures, the operator has created a series of posters for display in agency windows. For more information visit www.travelindochina.co.uk or call 01865-268944.

Premier Holidays unveils dedicated Georgia campaign in a bid to boost bookings PREMIER HOLIDAYS has put together a dedicated Georgia campaign to encourage client bookings, with a new fly/drive offer from £1,399 per person. The campaign offers clients the opportunity to experience the best of Georgia; with stops included at some of the state’s most iconic regions such as Atlanta, Savannah and Jekyll Island, and the added benefit of a personalised road book with suggested landmarks and sightseeing opportunities, as well as maps and directions. The operator’s new 13-night itinerary

begins in Florida with a two-night stay in Orlando, before moving on to St Augustine for a further two nights. Next, guests will drive on to St Mary’s for a two-night stay, followed by three nights on Jekyll Island and then in Savannah, before spending a final night in Atlanta and flying back to Heathrow. The fly/drive offer is based on two adults sharing, and includes flights from Heathrow into Florida and out of Atlanta with Virgin Atlantic, fully-inclusive car hire, accommodation throughout and an exclusive, personalised road book.

The offer is valid for travel on selected dates during November subject to availability, and can also be tailormade to suit clients’ requirements. Agents can request or download a copy of the operator's Georgia campaign poster from www.trade.premierholidays.co.uk Agents will also benefit from a booking incentive, earning between £25£150 per Georgia booking, dependent on the booking value. For more information call 0844-493 7524.

Up to 40% savings on a week’s cruise on MS Mozart from Fred.\ River Cruises FRED.\ RIVER Cruises is offering up to 40% off a week’s cruise on the MS Mozart river cruise ship which operates on the River Danube, through Germany, Austria, Hungary and Slovakia. Seven-night cruises lead in at £1,224 per person (usually £1,909) based on departures on July 11 and 18, September 25 and October 9. The eight-day voyage takes

guests from Passau to Budapest via Krems and Esztergom, and then onto Bratislava, Vienna and Melk before returning to Passau. A range of excursions both included and additional are available, including bus and walking tours of the major cities and visits to the towns of Esztergom, Visegrad and Szentendre along the Danube. The price includes seven nights' full board

accommodation including buffet breakfast, four-course lunch, afternoon tea, dinner and midnight snacks featuring regional and seasonal specialities, beverages including mineral water and soft drinks, free flowing wine and beer with lunch and dinner, a cocktail reception, welcome dinner and captain’s gala dinner; daily entertainment; a cruise director; all taxes; English guided tours and selected

excursions. It also includes flights from London (regional flights available on request) and transfers. Key selling points of the MS Mozart are that it has cabins for one, two or three people, including some with French balconies, along with a heated swimming pool with spa, ocean-style atrium and lobby. For further information visit www.fredrivercruises.co.uk or call 0808-256 8148.

2015 Cruise Collection Buy One Get One Free! Amazing Buy One Get One Free - early booking offer. Book by 31st August 2014 so start selling now! • British Cruise Experience - Traditional no-fly cruising holidays from six regional UK ports. • Introducing Azores - New to the fleet. A classic ocean liner, beautifully restored. • 50th Anniversary of Marco Polo - Commemorative Voyage to Canada & Greenland. Basic 12.5% Enhanced Commission+. Promotional support package. No Direct Book Online Discounts. Great deals for Groups.

Book online at: www.cruiseandmaritime.com ■ Call: 0844 414 6161 Agency Sales: 0844 414 6140 ■ Brochures: www.trade-gate.co.uk +

Applies to sales achieved over £5K for 2014/15 cruises.

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puzzlebulletin Travagrams

Su Doku Win a £50 Love2Shop voucher in the

Su Doku prize puzzle

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

Number: 026

Circus Yetis

A➠

B➠ This company specialises in London river cruises

C➠

Car Bid Gem

D➠

competition@travelbulletin.co.uk Closing date for entries is Thursday, July 10th. Solution and new puzzle will appear next week. The winner for 20th June is Jodie Mcdonald, Sutton Travel in Sutton Coldfield. June 20 Solution: A=4 B=5 C=2 D=1

Home to one of the world’s most prestigious universities

Where Am I? image credit: Matthew Wilkinson

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:

Coastal town twinned with Millau in France and Bad Salzuflen in Germany

Crossword Fill in the crossword to reveal the mystery location highlighted by the green squares.

Number: 026

Across 1. Flag carrier of Germany (9) 5. Capital of Benin (5,4) 7. Low-cost flight operator, part of the Monarch group (4) 8. Capital of Lebanon (6) 11. London station for trains to Glasgow (6) 12. American actress, ___ Hathaway (4) 14. City, known as the capital of the Scottish Highlands (9) 16. One of the presidents carved into Mount Rushmore (9)

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Down 1. She started with X-Factor and is now Walking on Sunshine at a cinema near you (5,5) 2. German mountain range (4) 3. Red-top tabloid newspaper (3) 4. Volcanic Caribbean island (10) 5. The 2014 Tour de France finishes in this city (5) 6. Repeated by town criers to get your attention (4) 9. Spend them in South Africa (5) 10. Hotels and Resorts brand, ___ Seasons (4) 13. American actor, Richard (4) 15. London Coliseum based opera company, initially (3)

For the solution to the Crossword, Where Am I? and Travagrams, please see page 30 July 4 2014

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Industry Insight by... by Neil Basnett, chief executive at Elite Travel Group explains his views on train travel

E ARE constantly encouraged to use public transport more: this will be good for the environment as it reduces carbon emissions and leads to less congested roads. This week I had to do exactly that as my poor little Bertie (my faithful Volvo) decided that his clutch needed some TLC. One of my journeys was from Birmingham New Street to Birmingham International, fortunately a trip of only 10 minutes. OK: the Virgin cross-country train travelled on time but comfortable it was not! The train was absolutely crammed with all of the entrance ways and carriage aisles being full to bursting. Rail travel in this country is not cheap and I am sure that many of my fellow travellers were travelling all the way down to Bournemouth: is it too much to expect that if one spends considerable money on a train ticket for a long journey, then one can at least sit down without having to pre-book a specific seat? I gave up a long time ago in booking seats anyway as there is always somebody in one’s seat!

Birmingham New Street Station is another story! Absolutely ghastly: I appreciate that it is undergoing a much-needed overhaul but for any outsiders to the West Midlands having to use the station it must be a nightmare! Poor signage as to from which platform your train is departing, no clear boards listing all the stops on the journey and then platforms are split into A and B to cause even further confusion! A truly horrendous experience and hardly conducive to persuading me to leave Bertie at home in the future despite his sore clutch. Apart from politicians of all parties, what percentage of the British public is behind the massive waste of public money with the planned High Speed 2 scheme between London and initially the Midlands, in time Northern England and Scotland. There can be no denying that there has been massive under-investment for many years by all governments in our railway system and nobody would argue against funds being spent in improving our current railway network: more trains and more carriages on many of them would be a significant improvement! This would be much cheaper than the £43b estimated by the politicians for the development of HS2 with the Institute of Economic Affairs already suggesting that this is more likely to be nearer £80b. All of us know that the final figure will exceed

July 4 2014

"Rail travel in this country is not cheap and I am sure that many of my fellow travellers were travelling all the way down to Bournemouth: is it too much to expect that if one spends considerable money on a train ticket for a long journey, then one can at least sit down without having to pre-book a specific seat?" £100m at a time when the country is coming out of deep recession and simply can’t afford such public expenditure. Next year we face a General Election and it just needs some bold Independent candidates (in constituencies through which HS2 will charge) to stand up with ‘No to HS2’ in their manifesto to give the mainstream parties a strong kick up the backside: am I tempted? I see that Simon Calder has ruffled a few feathers in the Travel Industry again by claiming for the second year running that he can find peak-season holidays for £300! He can’t be blamed however for finding such arrangements if they are available: that is not his fault! We all accept that the standards of such a holiday at a popular travelling time of the year are likely to be appalling and that is what a good travel agent will advise the client. That is where the expertise of the agent comes to the fore and Simon acknowledges that: all that he is saying is that he has found a holiday for £300! I will not mention the World Cup! The pathetic attempts of our footballers pale into insignificance when one thinks back just two years to the glory of the Olympics: how much do our athletes earn? At least England’s long-suffering supporters can start booking holidays again! I was fortunate to attend Royal Ascot: England (proud to say it) at its finest! With the royal carriage procession combined with thrilling horse-racing, copious champagne and a sing-song to end all sing-songs, it was a fabulous day. My only problem now is whether I will be able to get away with the same colour fascinator next year!

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eventbulletin Travel Bulletin played host to an Online Training Showcase event last month at the Thistle Manchester. The event gave agents the opportunity to learn more about the range of opportunities for online training and, at the same time, win a range of fantastic prizes... ON THE CASE…Ann Barber from Travel Counsellors won a case of Australian wine, presented by Bryan Arnicar, trainer at Tourism Australia.

CHOCS AWAY…Bingo prize winner Gehad Philobbos, (left) from Mina World Travel receives a box of chocolates from Simon Eddolls, Travel Bulletin.

COINING IT IN…Ian Leyde, Gibraltar Tourist Board presents Isla Stenning, from Sunseekers Travel with a silver coin.

BEACH BABE… Paige Healey from Thomas Cook, Bury won a seven-night stay for two people at the Almond Beach Resort, Barbados. She receives her prize from Greg Armstrong, of the Sun Group.

July 4 2014

PAMPER PALS…Jade Edwards (left) from STA Travel is presented with a bathrobe and pamper pack by Sarah Smith, national account manager, Hoseasons.

PURE LUCK…Sola Thomson, (left) Pure Grenada presents Barbara Holmes from Moorend Travel with Grenada chocolate.

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eventbulletin DREAM WIN...Darren Mussell, Riviera Travel presents Linda France from Worldwide Dream Villas and Holidays with a £50 Selfridges voucher.

EGYPT PRIZE... Nevine Coutry of Orascom and Mohammed Elnaggar, Egyptian Tourism Authority presents Jon Fletcher (middle) from Cruise Holidays UK with his prize of a one-week stay for two people in El Gouna including flights.

KNIGHTS TIME…Enjoying the reception drinks are, from the left; Michael Richardson from Travel Knights, David Livingstone of Skylord Travel and Paul Knight, Travel Knights.

VOUCHER SURPRISE…Julia Cullen from Hays Travel receives a £50 John Lewis voucher from Kevin Young, senior key account manager at Lufthansa.

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WINE WIN…Bingo prize winner Stephanie Robinson (right) from Moorend Travel receives a bottle of wine from Jeanette Ratcliffe, Travel Bulletin.

RIU PRIZE…Maria Battersby from RIU Hotels & Resorts presents Franco Renzulli from Bowman Travel Services with his prize of a four-night stay for two at any RIU hotel worldwide.

July 4 2014

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newsbulletin Hurtigruten offers free flights

agentreview Christine Vaughan from Thomas Cook, Ipswich went on a four-night cruise on Marco Polo to Amsterdam, Zeebrugge and Honfleur with Cruise & Maritime Voyages. Here's what she thought...

First impressions ....................................8/10 The ship was quick and easy to embark and we were lucky to have been upgraded to a suite, which was spacious and comfortable. It had a bath which in normal cabins is quite unusual. On a wander round the ship, I was very impressed with the theatre area, small but adequate gym and general feel of the ship.

Comfort ....................................................7/10 Our cabin was lovely but it was a suite. Other cabins glimpsed at seemed good as well although some of the inside ones seemed quite small but this was reflected in the price. The lounge & bar areas were very pleasant and there were several areas to sit. The main restaurant was very nice, although tables were quite close and sometimes waiters did knock into our table!

Quality ......................................................8/10 We loved the size of the ship and felt the quality for the size was superb. The food was very good and plentiful and the shore excursions were very well organised and ran smoothly.

BOOK A 12 day ‘Classic Round Voyage’ with Hurtigruten on one of 30 specified departure dates between October 4 and December 27 this year from Gatwick to Bergen and the cruise company will offer the flights for free including return transfers. The offer is valid when booking an unspecified cabin. The departure on October 9 now costs £1,099 per person, for flights, transfers and the 12-day voyage on fullboard basis, based on two people sharing an unspecified inside cabin. The ‘Classic Round Voyage’ travels along the coast of Norway from Bergen in the South, up to Kirkenes, high in the Arctic Circle, before heading southbound back to Bergen. The offer is subject to availability and not combinable with any other offer. For more information call 020-3582 6642 or visit www.hurtigruten.co.uk/agents.

Europcar brings 4G mobile Wi-Fi to airports EUROPCAR IS continuing to invest in the latest technology to improve the traveller’s journey, with the addition of 4G mobile Wi-Fi hotspots available for purchase from its major airport locations. Now available from Heathrow, Gatwick, Edinburgh, Glasgow and Manchester airports, 4G Wi-Fi costs £9 per day with unlimited data. The hotspots allow up to ten devices to connect, using EE’s 4G mobile broadband service. For more information visit www.europcar.co.uk

Affordability ............................................9/10 This was a cruise for all pockets as an inside cabin could be bought for approx £300pp. We had paid £500pp for an outside superior cabin which, with all that was included, we felt very good, especially when we ended up with a suite.

Service ....................................................6/10 We never saw our cabin boy after he had introduced himself to us on the first day which is how it should be! The cabin was always clean and tidy but so discreetly managed and a chocolate on the pillow every night. However, we felt the waiters in the restaurant were not up to cruise standards as ours often got the orders wrong and didn't seem to have a sense of humour, and we felt slightly let down. Reception staff however were lovely and helpful.

Overall scoring: ..............................................

8/ 10

Christine receives a £10 M&S voucher for her review. If you'd like to take part and receive a free Love2Shop voucher please email jill.sayles@travelbulletin.co.uk or call 020-7834 6661 with your name and contact details.

July 4 2014

MARITIM TIME… Rebecca Cresey from Maritim Hotels recently trained staff from the Virgin Store in Victoria, London. Pictured from left to right is Shakeera Wilson, Rebecca Creasey, Christine Yeomans and Rebecca Bateman. To book your training session call Maritim Hotels on 0208-545 6910.

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spain BENIDORM IS offering holidaymakers budget-friendly tickets for summer music festivals. As examples, the Neptuno Festival takes place on July 12 with tickets from €20, followed by the three-day Low Festival from July 25-27, which is now in its sixth year, and the Electrobeach Festival from August 1-2, both featuring a range of British and international artists and DJs. Meanwhile, for younger visitors, a new area at Terra Mitica theme park offers free entrance with pay-as-you-go rides, a ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ show, a magic experience, restaurants and several other attractions. Other activities in the resort this summer include art exhibitions, live broadcasts and a host of music, dance and guest DJs. For details visit www.en.visitbenidorm.es

Princesa Yaiza offers honeymoon retreat for newlyweds THE FIVE-star Princesa Yaiza Suite Hotel Resort on the sands of Playa Blanca is offering tailor-made honeymoon packages. Newlyweds can stay in any of the specially prepared suites that overlook the gardens, with views across to the nearby island of Fuerteventura. With five restaurants available, the hotel provides plenty of options in terms of dining, while its Thalasso Spa offers a range of treatments including a 60-minute Yaiza Paradise treatment, which includes a honeymoon bath and massage, and a two-hour Princess Yaiza treatment,

which includes a hydromassage bath with colour therapy and a massage. Sovereign Luxury Travel (0843-770 4526) is offering a seven-night holiday at the property from £949 per person. Based on a July 17 departure, it includes an online booking discount, flights from Gatwick, airport lounge access, private transfers and seven nights’ breakfast accommodation. Honeymooners will receive a room upgrade; sparkling wine; chocolates; one voucher per person for A Thousand & One Nights Circuit with biomarine watercourse, sauna and steam bath at the spa; and breakfast

in the room the day after arrival. Classic Collection Holidays (0800294 9318) is also offering seven nights’ breakfast accommodation from £1,199 in July. The price is based on two adults sharing an ocean view junior suite and includes flights from Gatwick (other UK departure airports available) and private transfers. Honeymooners will receive complimentary chocolates and sparkling wine, a spa circuit, breakfast for two, plus a room upgrade. For further details visit www.princesayaiza.com

Attraction World giving away free euros CUSTOMERS BUYING either a single day ticket to Loro Parque or Siam Park in Tenerife will receive €5 per person to spend in the parks from Attraction World. In addition, clients buying one of the twin ticket options to both Loro Parque and Siam Park will receive €10 per person to spend. The offer is valid until April next year and agents making a booking either this month or next could win a VIP goody bag courtesy of the operator. To be in with a chance to win, email the booking reference to ilovetenerife@attractionworld.com

Marconfort launches Benidorm Suites MARCONFORT HOTELS has opened the Marconfort Benidorm Suites, the first all-inclusive suites concept in the resort. The suites offer a family experience based around the music of the 70s, 80s and 90s. Refurbished from the former Flamingo Hotel, the contemporary rooms offer accommodation for up to five guests, along with pool and leisure facilities. Special opening rates start from €55. For more information see www.en.marconfort.com

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THE OFFICIAL FC Barcelona Football Club Camp will take place at La Manga Club for the first time from July 21-25, giving budding stars the chance to learn some of the secrets of the club and emulate their footballing idols. The club is open to girls and boys between the ages of seven and 17 and includes five hours’ daily training from Barcelona’s official coaches, recreational activities and lunch. Those taking part will also receive a diploma for their attendance and a training kit, plus the chance to win signed shirts from the club’s first team. Prices start at €450 per person for a week-long training programme, while children can attend the football camp on an individual basis including a week’s full-board accommodation in the resort’s four-star Las Lomas Village for €950 per person. For details email campusfcb@lamangaclub.com or visit www.lamangaclub.com

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spain Mallorca properties undergo refurbs A SELECTION of properties in Mallorca have recently opened or have undergone refurbishments. A new agroturismo property, Finca Dalt Murada (www.daltmurada.co.uk), opened in May. Located 20 minutes from Palma and reachable by train, the 500year-old country farmhouse estate is near the winegrowing village of Binnissalem, and offers a base from which to explore rural Mallorca, the Tramuntana mountains and beaches. Special opening rates lead in at €350 per person for seven nights’ breakfast accommodation until the end of October, and can be combined with a city break at sister hotels in Palma, Hotel Dalt Murada and Casa Padrina. Meanwhile, the four-star Hotel Bon Sol Resort & Spa in Illetas (www.hotelbonsol.es) starts the summer season with new lifts, a refurbished beachside restaurant and an outdoor terrace offering summer spa treatments in semi-tropical gardens, plus a complimentary children’s club with a programme of daily activities. There are further plans to offer guests a new swimming pool and chill-out lounge next year, which will offer an adults-only relaxation area during the summer season. The four-star Hotel Tres in Palma (www.hoteltres.com) is also celebrating its tenth anniversary this month with a new gym, massage services and sauna/steam room with plunge pool on the roofdeck. A concierge and free iPhone app are also available for guests. The hotel is open year round and rates start from €215 on a bed-and-breakfast basis with a 15% discount on advance bookings.

TORRALBENC HOTEL in Menorca has launched a tour exploring the history of shoe-making. Over a weekend at the hotel, guests will be guided through the Old Town of Ciutadella, looking at albarcas ateliers - or Menorcan sandals - and the Jaime Mascaro shoe factory. Originally making ballet shoes, the Jaime Mascaro shoe factory now has three global brands - Jaime Mascaro, Ursula Mascaro and, most famously, Pretty Ballerinas, fans of which include Kate Moss, Lily Allen, Claudia Schiffer and Kylie Minogue. Guests can also visit Alaior, home of the Pons Quintana shoe factory shop. Prices for the two-night break start from €575 per room including breakfast, based on two people sharing. A guided tour of Ciutadella, a visit to Albarcas atelier and the Jaime Mascaro factory are included, as well as a pair of Albarcas for guests, a 30-minute reflexology treatment/pedicure and a bottle of Menorcan wine. For more information visit www.torralbenc.com

Spa packages from Intercontinental Mar Menor Golf Resort & Spa

Finca Dalt Murada

Barcelona outlet shopping experiences from SuperBreak SUPERBREAK IS now offering agents booking short breaks to Barcelona the opportunity to add-on an outlet shopping experience. Ideal for customers on a city break that want to enjoy some retail therapy, the day trips can be added to any hotel booking and are fully commissionable to agents. The day includes coach transfers, a VIP card with various benefits, a gift card of either €25 or €50 and lunch. Prices are from £55 per person with a €25 gift card offered when added to a hotel booking. For details see www.superbreak.com/agents or call 01904-436000.

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HOLIDAYMAKERS LOOKING to unwind this summer can choose from a range of spa packages available in the Spanish region of Murcia. The Intercontinental Mar Menor Golf Resort & Spa, located in a resort which is home to Europe’s largest saltwater lagoon, is minutes from Murcia’s coastline and offers an indoor pool and a specially designed relaxation room for treatments. Guests can indulge in a relaxation package, which includes a 40-minute aromatherapy treatment, for €99 (£80) per night, based on two people sharing a room. Clients who opt for the package will stay in a deluxe room with a whirlpool and receive a buffet breakfast and unlimited use of the spa facilities. An 18-hole golf course, designed by Jack Nicklaus, is also onsite. Outside of the resort, the Regional Park of Calblanque is located 20 minutes away and features beaches, coves, white salt lakes and mountain massifs. Alternatively, visitors can stroll through the streets of Cartagena and see the ancient Roman theatre and historic architecture. For more information or to make a reservation visit hotel.marmenorresort.com/en To find out more about the region of Murcia visit www.murciaturistica.es/en

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TENERIFE TWINS!

ATTRACTION WORLD EXCLUSIVE FOR YOUR CUSTOMERS! Enjoy €5 per person to spend in Loro Parque or Siam Park with the 1-day tickets and €10 per person on every Twin Ticket purchased!

ATTRACTION WORLD INCENTIVE FOR YOU! Simply make a booking to Siam Park or Loro Parque for your chance to win one of 10 VIP Goodie Bags!*

BOOK NOW AT ATTRACTIONWORLD.COM

*Email your booking reference through to ilovetenerife@attractionworld.com before 10 September 2014 to enter the draw.

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spain Travel 2 reports increased demand for Mallorca and Canaries TRAVEL 2 reports that the Canaries and Mallorca continue to be in high demand with UK holidaymakers and that availability is limited for the remainder of the summer season. The company's general manager of short haul product and purchasing, Ricky Wason, said: "Our recommendation is that anyone looking to book a winter holiday to Tenerife should start looking now to guarantee specific hotels and room types." The operator recommends the Abama Golf and Spa Resort in Tenerife, which has recently announced its full membership of the Ritz Carlton family. Wason said: “Ibiza has witnessed an increased demand for luxury hotels in recent years as part of the continued reinvention from the dance music and nightlife of the 90s to the current high demand for luxury four- and five-star properties” As an example of prices, a seven-night stay at the five-star Jumeirah Port Soller in Mallorca leads in at £1,189 per person. The deal offers a saving of £230 per couple includes flights from London City with BA, private transfers and breakfast, and is based on an October 7 departure. To book or for further information see www.travel2.com

THE PARADOR Soria Hotel has introduced guided horse-riding tours in the Soria region. The tour takes guests through woodland and nearby heritage sites and there is also the opportunity to take in the Celtiberian city of Numancia, with its ruins dating back to 133 BC. Following a day of exploration on horseback, guests will return to the hilltop hotel with its views of the Douro Valley. Prices start from €190 (£150) per night including breakfast, based on two sharing. Guided horseback tours start from €12 (£10) per person, per hour. For details or to book visit www.parador.es/es

Embark on a ‘Spanish Experience’ with Trafalgar TRAFALGAR HAS launched a nine-day ‘Spanish Experience’ tour, visiting some of Spain’s most iconic sights. Highlights include exploring Madrid with a local guide; sightseeing in Toledo; seeing the whitewashed villages and churches of Andalusia; exploring Granada; a scenic drive to Guadix with the chance to admire the cave dwellings before continuing on to Valencia; and a stop off at Peniscola to view the ancient castle of the ‘Spanish Pope’ before arriving in Barcelona. Prices start from £865 per person and include eight nights’ breakfast accommodation, VIP doorto-door transfers, sightseeing and the services of a travel director throughout. Alternatively, a nine-day ‘Spanish Salsa’ tour starts in Madrid and ends in Barcelona. Highlights include being taught how to

Toledo

make paella in Valencia by a local chef; learning to flamenco dance with a local dancer; and visiting Camp Nou, Europe’s largest football stadium, in Barcelona. Prices start from £1,535

per person and include eight nights’ breakfast accommodation, VIP doorto-door transfers, sightseeing and the services of a travel director. For more information visit www.trafalgar.com

Go Barefoot explores the ‘Emerald Coast’ GO BAREFOOT is promoting its ‘Emerald Coast’ itinerary, which travels along Catalonia’s coastline taking in volcanic parks, hidden bays, fishing villages, ancient castles and gothic monasteries.

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Heading from the medieval town of Girona, which offers Roman and Jewish heritage, clients can explore a volcanic park before heading to the coastline. They can then trek and cycle to reach ancient castles and monasteries.

The eight-day trip costs £850 per person including breakfast accommodation, activities and transfers. For more information visit www.gobarefoot.travel

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Transun highlights hand-picked venues in Hvar TRANSUN IS promoting three of its hand-picked venues in Croati's Hvar for couples looking to tie the knot. Suitable for 50-200 guests, the operator's fully licenced venues include Bonj Les Bains Beach Club, which is surrounded by the Adriatic Sea and offers views across the Pakleni Islands from private pontoons; the San Marco Terrace, which is set in the heart of the old town of Hvar and is located at the

Honeymoon package from Mount Cinnamon Resort MOUNT CINNAMON Resort & Beach Club in Grenada is offering a special honeymoon package. It includes a sevennight all-inclusive stay in a Hacienda suite; flowers, gourmet home-produced chocolate and a chilled bottle of sparkling wine on arrival; a sunset cruise; dinner on the beach with a personal butler; his and hers Cinnamon Signature Massage; and private luxury airport transfers. Prices lead in at US$2,250 (approximately £1,204) plus 10% service & 10% tax. For further information visit www.mountcinnamongren adahotel.com or email reservations@mountcinna mongrenada.com

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top of Empress Elizabeth’s Palace, and is ideal for couples looking for a traditional wedding with a vintage theme; and the Top Bar at the Adriana Spa Hotel, which offers a roof terrace with an intimate, modern design and has views across the old town, the yacht harbour and the Pakleni Islands. A range of romantic accommodation to complement the wedding packages is available,

including the spa hotels, yacht hotels and beach resorts, and a wedding coordinator is included in the price of packages. There are no minimum residency requirements for couples getting married in Croatia; the bride and

groom just need to meet with the local registrar a few days before the ceremony. As with all weddings in the UK, the couple must hold a certificate of no impediment. For further information visit www.transun.co.uk or call 01865-265200.

Olympic Holidays boosts wedding programme OLYMPIC HOLIDAYS has released its 2015 Weddings, Honeymoons & Renewal of Vows brochure, expanding its range of wedding venue options in Cyprus, the Greek islands and Malta. The company's 100-page brochure is also aimed at the growing numbers choosing to renew their marriage vows. New Cyprus hotel additions include the five-star Royal Apollonia in Limassol, where the wedding ceremony can be held in a curtained gazebo in the hotel gardens overlooking the sea. Two other Cyprus newcomers are the five-star Olympic Lagoon Resort and King Evelthon Beach Hotel & Resort, both in Paphos. The company's new brochure features 28 Cyprus hotels hosting wedding ceremonies, 11 of which have their own chapel. Other

Royal Apollonia in Limassolx

wedding venues on the island include churches, chapels and town halls. Couples marrying in Cyprus can choose from a three-tier package of wedding extras: gold (£559), silver (£279) and bronze (£199). Couples can pay an extra £100 to book a decorated wedding car. Among the Greek islands, the operator has added two hotels in Santorini – the Orizontes Boutique Hotel and the Ambassador Hotel & Suites, while newly introduced in Kos is the five-star Diamond Deluxe Hotel. Olympic's Greek wedding offer includes religious and civil ceremonies on the islands of Corfu, Crete, Rhodes, Kefalonia, Santorini, Skiathos, Zante, Kos and Mykonos. In Malta, a choice of weddings in hotels and historic buildings are offered. Newly added venues include the four-star Fortina Hotel in Sliema and Seashells at Suncrest Hotel in Qawra. Also new is the option to have a nonreligious renewal of marriage vows ceremony in Cyprus, for which couples receive a commemorative certificate. The operator can also arrange a religious renewal of vows or a blessing ceremony by a minister in Cyprus, or a civil renewal of vows on the Greek islands of Rhodes and Santorini. For further information call 0844-499 0055 or see www.olympicholidays.com

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s n o o m y e n o h & s g in d wed New wedding promo from AMResorts AMRESORTS has announced a new wedding promotion called ‘Save Your Date’. It is valid on all new wedding bookings made by July 31 for travel from January 1 and July 31, 2015 and from January 1 to July 31, 2016 at participating Zoëtry Wellness & Spa Resorts, Breathless, Secrets,

Dreams, Now and Sunscape Resorts & Spas. With the offer, new bookings will receive a complimentary Welcome Cocktail Party for up to 50 guests. To qualify for the promotion, a minimum of ten rooms, staying for a minimum of three nights per room is required. For details see www.amresorts.com

MEANING ‘LOVE’ in isiZulu, Thanda Private Game Reserve is steeped in Zulu history with the Zulu culture embraced throughout the guest experience. Drawing inspiration from its setting, a Romance Package offers a cultural twist to a romantic getaway. Along with moonlit dinners in a private boma, rosescattered turndowns, Champagne on ice on arrival and private plunge pools, couples will also enjoy a traditional Zulu Blessing taken by a local Zulu under the sacred Marula Tree; themed inroom touches that include a Love Box and Zulu Love necklace; and a 'Romancing the Stone' massage. Prices lead in at 39,000 rand (approximately £2,200) for two people staying three nights at Thanda Safari Lodge. Newly weds also receive a 25% package discount within three months of their wedding date and with production of a wedding certificate. For details see www.thanda.com

Tailored excursions for honeymooners at The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi LOCATED IN the Noonu Atoll Maldives, The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi features 221 luxury ocean-front villas, including 70 over-water bungalows, 11 bar and restaurant choices, a 20-room tropical spa and range of activities and local explorations. The property is highlighting a range of excursions for honeymooners, which can be tailored to include a range of activities. Examples include a sunset cruise, diving, snorkelling safaris and trips to a fishing village on a local inhabited island to experience the authentic laid back way of Maldivian community life. Meanwhile, a new concept for the property is Destination Dining which offers guests the opportunity to enjoy

The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi

gourmet dinners specially prepared by a personal chef, which can be prepared anywhere on the island. Experience Travel Group is offering seven nights for the price of five at the

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resort, with prices leading in at £1,800 per person based on two sharing a Beach Villa on a bed-andbreakfast basis. It includes flights with Qatar from Heathrow and seaplane

transfers and is valid for departures up to September. For more information or to book see www.experiencetravelgroup.c om or call 020-7924 7133.

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Mauritius offers wedding options throughout the island WEDDING AND honeymoon options on Mauritius include Beachcomber’s Classic Wedding Package which costs from £510, including the cake, bride’s hair and make-up and a celebration breakfast in bed. Its Luxury Wedding Package additionally offers 50 photos and private dinner from £1095. A Mauritius Creole wedding package at Le Meridien Ile Maurice comes with a dedicated wedding ‘Mama’ (wedding coordinator), Sega music and dancers, Mo coco cocktail and a trip on a traditional boat from £355. Meanwhile, the Angsana Balackalva offers a tandem free-fall skydiving ‘Romance and Skyfall’ package. Couples can legally marry in Mauritius, rather than just have a blessing and the bride and groom need only turn up three days before the wedding or civil ceremonies, or 15 days before religious weddings. Weddings can take place anywhere on the island and most couples opt to marry on a beach, in a hotel garden or in a wedding chapel. Adventurous couples can choose to marry on board a luxury yacht or catamaran, underwater in a submarine, at a traditional colonial house where a Creole mama will help prepare the bride following old age traditions, or on LUX* Resorts’ Robinson-Crusoe style private island Ile Deux Cocos. Religious wedding venues range from an 18th century village chapel with a Mauritian choir at Shanti Maurice or at St Louis Cathedral.

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Wedding packages at the EDF Energy London Eye THE EDF Energy London Eye has announced its seasonal hospitality packages for the year ahead, including two ceremony packages. For both packages, couples will meet representatives from Lambeth Register office before being escorted (with guests) to a private wedding capsule for two rotations; the first for the ceremony and signing of the register and the second to relax and

celebrate. A dedicated member of the wedding team is on hand to assist with plans before and on the day of your ceremony. A Classic Package includes decorative flowers inside the private capsule; two rotations on the London Eye (one hour); a dedicated London Eye civil ceremony coordinator; and a glass of Pommery Brut Royal Champagne. A Celebration Package includes all of the above listed in the Classic

Package, as well as a 120piece canapé menu; a glass of Pommery Brut Royal Champagne for each guest in any additional guest capsules; a choice of a hand-tied bouquet or four buttonholes; an optional upgrade to Pommery Brut Rose; and a Cupid's Capsule to celebrate the first wedding anniversary. Reception packages are also available. For more information see www.londoneye.com

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TUCKED AWAY in the olive groves of Southern Spain, Barceló La Bobadilla is a retreat deep in the heart of Andalucía between the towns of Cordoba, Malaga, Seville and Granada. The hotel offers three romantic suites for honeymooners – the Presidential Suite, Imperial Suite and the Alhambra Suite. The Presidential Suite and the Imperial Suite cost from £420 per person, per night, while the Alhambra Suite leads in at £350. Prices are based on two sharing and include breakfast and VAT. Onsite facilities include three restaurants, an outdoor pool, wellness centre, tennis court and an archery range. For details see www.barcelolabobadilla.com

Travel 2 highlights LUX Le Morne in Mauritius for weddings TRAVEL 2 is recommending LUX Le Morne on the South West coast of Mauritius as an ideal wedding destination. The operator's product manager Africa (East and Southern), Mauritius, Seychelles & Jordan, Michael Creighton, said: “Mauritius offers fantastic wedding and honeymoon packages and over time these packages have become more comprehensive. A variety of packages are now available with different elements included from a

dedicated wedding coordinator to live musicians and photography.” As an example, a seven-night, half-board stay at the five-star LUX Le Morne, including flights from Gatwick with Emirates, transfers and a Wedding Light package, costs from £1,689 per person based on departures between August 1 and September 5. For further information see www.travel2.com

Joint honeymoon package from Cap Maison & Ladera in St Lucia BOUTIQUE HOTELS, Cap Maison and Ladera in St Lucia, have launched a new joint honeymoon package. The “Peak to Beach” twin-centre honeymoon package allows honeymooners to experience the distinctively different north and south of the island. Couples will start with a stay at Ladera, near Soufriere, in a Luxury Suite, with a private terrace and plunge pool, for three nights. Upon arrival, guests are welcomed with a

complimentary bottle of signature local rum, and the experience also includes daily breakfast, three dinners and a couple’s massage. After spending three days at Ladera, newlyweds are taken to boutique villa resort, Cap Maison, on a private yacht. Guests will stay in an Ocean View Villa Suite with a private roof terrace and pool, where they will receive a bottle of chilled Champagne. All breakfasts, lunches and dinners (plus selected beverages) at either the Cliff at Cap Rock pool at Cap Maison

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restaurant or at the new beach bar and grill, The Naked Fisherman, are included, as well as a couple’s massage at Spa Maison. The package leads in at £5,827 for six nights, based on two sharing and includes luxury airport transfers. As an alternative, a ‘Classic Peak to Beach’ package costs from £3,668 based on two sharing for a six-night stay and includes transfers, three nights in a Rainbow Suite with a private plunge pool at Ladera and three nights at Cap Maison in an Ocean View Villa Suite with a private infinity pool, as well as all meals/selected beverages, and a onehour spa treatment per person at each resort. The offers are valid for stays until December 19 and exclude taxes and service charges. For details see www.capmaison.com and www.ladera.com or call 020-8977 6099.

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Sandals Resorts team up to offer couples customised wedding jewellery styles

WEDDING COUPLES are being given the opportunity to plant a palm to commemorate their wedding at Nisbet Plantation Beach Club in Nevis. The service also offers a plaque featuring the couple’s names and wedding date next to the tree. For details visit www.nisbetplantation.com

SANDALS RESORTS and its exclusive partnership with international fine jeweller Amoro now offer couples new wedding jewellery styles and designer services. Amoro for Sandals allows couples to customise their wedding jewellery including wedding bands, diamond rings and tennis bracelets, and couples can choose everything from the precious metal and diamond weight, to the layout and grade. The service is customisable for any budget,

with prices ranging from under $900 for a modest 14kt diamond ring to a more extravagant Platinum set in the same style at $7,100. Beyond the traditional wedding day jewellery, the company also offers new customisation services such as the 'Tell your own love story' charm designer service, which allows brides to build a unique beaded or clip-on charm bracelet or necklace for herself or for her bridesmaids. For more information visit www.amoroforsandals.com

Anatolian Sky promotes wedding package options ANATOLIAN SKY, which features weddings in both north Cyprus and Turkey in a variety of locations, is highlighting two wedding package options. At £1,599 per couple, the Silver package includes a wedding planner, all legal requirements, registration of marriage and certificate, marquee and floral ceremony arch, wedding ceremony, music and wedding cake. Guests can choose to upgrade to the Gold package for an extra £599 and receive a bridal bouquet, groom’s button hole, flowers on the bridal table, a hairdresser for the bride, photographer, wedding video and bottle of Champagne.

The operator is also offering a group discount – for every 15 people in a wedding party, one person will be offered free flights, accommodation

and transfers. To book or for more information see www.anatoliansky.co.uk or call 0844-273 3117.

HOTELES CHARLESTON, a portfolio of three luxury hotels in Colombia, all of which are members of Leading Hotels of the World, is offering a range of packages for honeymooners. As an example, Hotel Charleston Bogotá (pictured) is offering a Suite Romance package, which includes breakfast accommodation in a Grand Suite, a bouquet of roses, a bottle of sparkling wine, fresh fruit and candle decorations. Prices lead in at US$522 per night, per room, based on two sharing. For details see www.hotelcharlestonbogota.com

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pacificislands Couple relaxing on Papua New Guinea cruise

Papua New Guinea receives tourism boost with UK visitor figures up by 35% PAPUA NEW Guinea reports that it has received a major boost to its fast emerging tourism industry, with figures revealing a 35% increase in visitor arrivals from the UK. Although most of the destination's tourism market sectors are showing an increase, growth is particularly marked in the cruise sector, which is seeing a steady increase in the number of operators offering interesting expeditions. This year for example, P&O cruises has committed to an increased programme of eight voyages in the area. The cruises will continue be to Madang and Kavieng with plans to take in the

exotic islands of Manus. For details see www.pocruises.com.au Meanwhile, Coral Princess Cruises has added a fifth departure this year, with further departures in the pipeline. The line's founder and managing director, Tony Briggs, said: "Papua New Guinea's authentic cultural experiences, untouched landscapes and stunning coral reefs continue to attract the most intrepid travellers, for whom our purpose built small ship ‘Oceanic Discoverer’ proves to be ideal for visiting this scenic coastline." For details see http://coralprincess.com.au/cruise/png Orion is also extending the length of

its cruises to the destination to 19 and 21 nights respectively (www.orionexpeditions.com), while Silverseas' World Cruise itinerary for this year includes both Alotau and Madang as featured stop-off points. See www.silverseas.com Meanwhile, an expansion in both international and domestic aviation is ensuring easier access to the destination, and Airniugini, the national carrier, offers regular services from Singapore, Hong Kong and other Asian and Australasian hubs. For further information see www.papuanewguinea.travel

Tahiti Tourisme launches new global brand positioning and identity TAHITI TOURISME has launched its new global brand positioning and identity for the Islands of Tahiti, in 14 key markets across the world. The repositioning of the destination intends to not only drive a measured increase in tourism but also to create economic opportunity for the nation through investment and trade. Minister of Tourism, Geffry Salmon, said: “Throughout the work it has been of utmost importance that the authenticity and passion for the real strengths of French Polynesia are reflected and captured appropriately. Tahiti Tourisme’s new brand identity, and that of the destination of our Islands, is a celebration of the place, the people, its history and of course its future.” With the aim of creating a more contemporary understanding and desire for all that French Polynesia has to offer, the new brand serves to set the foundations for future marketing activities and builds on the long-term strategies for the nation’s tourism and hospitality industry, designed to meet the needs and expectations of the future traveller. The new identity, developed with global creative company FutureBrand, is being rolled out in full over the remainder of this year across website and collateral materials, as well as a refresh of the advertising and activations over the next 12 months. Michel Monvoisin, chairman of Tahiti Toursime, said: “The core elements of the new brand approach, plus the visual

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elements which will help us express our passion for French Polynesia, give us a platform to build a consistent story across all markets, informing and inspiring our target consumer and key audiences or partners alike. It marks a moment in time, in our story, where we look confidently towards the future and plan for it together with local industry, partners and government.” Meanwhile, the tourist office has issued a new Travel Planner for 2014/15 which is available on its brochure website at www.tahiti-editions.com and is also highlighting an interactive travel planner available online at www.tahititravelplanner.com, which allows users to search for specific content including activity, tour and accommodation providers, as well as restaurants and other tourism business services. The branding includes ‘Islands of Tahiti’, highlighting the fact that the destination has numerous islands to offer, and Key Qualities: generous, harmonious, elegant, exhilarating. The tourist office also reports that due to a wide variety of activities - from sailing to snorkelling and a flourishing events calendar - the UK’s latest figures show increasingly positive results. The number of tourists heading to Tahiti was up by 61% in March of this year, while tourists boarding cruises to the destination grew by 145%, compared to last year. For more information on accommodation and other activities in Tahiti and her islands visit www.tahiti-tourisme.co.uk

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pacificislands Free Environment Youth Programme from Paul Gauguin PAUL GAUGUIN Cruises has announced that it will offer oceanographer and environmentalist Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ambassadors of the Environment Youth Programme free on Christmas and New Year voyages in French Polynesia this year. The deal is available for bookings made by July 31 and offers savings of $299 per child. Cousteau and his Ocean Futures Society created the Ambassadors of the Environment Youth Programme, a programme that introduces young travellers to the natural wonders of French Polynesia through direct, hands-on, interactive learning. The mission of the Ocean Futures Society is to explore the oceans, inspiring and educating people throughout the world to act responsibly for their protection. Under the guidance of expert Ocean Future Society naturalists, young Ambassadors (ages nine-17) explore coral reefs, hike rainforest trails, experience Polynesian culture and visit marae (ancient Polynesian temples). They also learn how black pearls and vanilla are cultivated, how volcanic islands

become coral atolls and how to paddle an outrigger canoe. Parents are encouraged to join their children on ecoexcursions and other activities aboard and ashore. The programme is offered free on two seven-night Tahiti & the Society Islands cruises departing on December 20 and 27, with fly/cruise fares starting from £5,119 per person including free airfare from Los Angeles. In addition, the third guest in a stateroom sails free. Meanwhile, the company has launched its new Voyages by Gauguin 2015 Collection brochure which features 52 voyages by the line’s two deluxe small ships. Seven- to 14-night voyages are offered on both ships, with The Gauguin sailing in French Polynesia, Tahiti and the South Pacific. The Gauguin will feature its most popular itineraries in 2015: the seven-night Tahiti & the Society Islands; ten-night Society Islands & Tuamotus; 11-night Cook Islands & Society Islands; and 14-night Marquesas, Tuamotus & Society Islands. Other highlights include 12- and 13-night Fiji, Tonga, Cook & Society Islands voyages.

New resort offer on Tetiaora Island from Premier Holidays THE BRANDO is located on Marlon Brando’s private island of Tetiaroa, 50 km north of Tahiti. Designed to reflect Polynesian lifestyle and culture, this new resort opened on July 1 and will house 35 villas with private plunge pools set on white sand beaches. Accessible only by air, guests will arrive using the private airline belonging to the resort. The Brando is offering a discounted rate of 40% on bookings made for travel until September 30 this year to celebrate the launch of their brand new property. A short movie explaining the concept of the luxurious new property, featuring interviews with the owner and Marlon Brando’s son, is available to watch at http://bit.ly/1lcMxvA. Premier Holidays offers a seven night stay at The Brando in a one bedroom villa on a room only basis from £6,445 per person. The price includes return flights from Heathrow to Tahiti via Los Angeles with Air New Zealand and on to Tetiaroa Island with Air Tetiaroa. This offer is based on two adults sharing and is valid for travel on selected dates during September 2014, subject to availability. Travel Agents can also benefit from Premier Holidays’ agent incentive, earning between £25-£150 per Pacific Islands booking, dependent on booking value. For further information call 0844-493 7542 or visit www.trade.premierholidays.co.uk

Samoa welcomes launch of new resorts

SILVERSEA'S SILVER Discoverer will be making her first visit to the Pacific Islands on October 6 for a 14-day cruise from Koror, Palau to Honiara, Soloman Islands. The voyage will call at Ngulu Atoll, Soral, Satawal, Pulap, Chuuk Lagoon, Oroluk Atoll, Kolonia, Nukuoro, Kapingamarangi, Kennedy Island and Marova Lagoon. Highlights for passengers include exploring the seldom-visited, 500 people-island of Satawal, snorkelling in one of the top 10 diving sites in the world and the wreckage of a sunken Japanese battleship and taking in a history lesson in the National Historical Landmark and ruined city of Nan Madol and its 100-islets view. Prices start from £6,550 per person based on double occupancy of the Explorer Suite.

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SAMOA HAS welcomed the launch of two new resorts. Saletoga Sands Resort & Spa combines luxury and comfort on a white sandy beach with views over the South Pacific. The resort offers a selection of villas - Oceanview Villas, Beachfront Villas, and Matai Villa Suites, with prices for an Oceanview Villa starting from around £178 per night. For details see www.saletogasands.ws Meanwhile, Paradise Beach Resort offers beachfront accommodation and is located on the beach made famous by the 1953 film, Return to Paradise. Onsite activities include swimming, snorkelling, diving, reef fishing and beach volleyball. Prices start from around £150 per night. For details see www.returntoparadiseresort.com For more information visit www.samoa.travel

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REGENT SEVEN Seas Cruises is highlighting its 11-night roundtrip itinerary from Papeete, which leads in at ÂŁ4,999 per person including flights, transfers, shore excursions and all-inclusive accommodation on board. Other sailings are available from November through to February 2015. For details call 02380-682280 or see www.rssc.com

Fijian Tourism Expo 2015 dates announced to take place prior to ATE FOLLOWING THE success of the inaugural Fijian Tourism Expo (FTE) last month, Tourism Fiji has announced that FTE 2015 will take place in Fiji from June 15-19, 2015. Tourism Fiji has purposefully selected dates immediately prior to Australian Tourism Exchange (ATE) 2015, to be hosted in Melbourne, to make it easier for buyers from key long haul markets to make the most out of their annual visits to the Pacific region. "The inaugural FTE exceeded all expectations. It attracted an excellent number and quality of buyers from Fiji's major source markets and stimulated working relationships between complementary businesses here in Fiji, within and beyond the tourism sector," said Ken Freer, acting CEO at Tourism Fiji. "Our opportunity for 2015 is to build on that success and enhance the event, to showcase the great diversity and quality of product available in Fiji to our existing and new

international industry partners. "By timing FTE to run immediately prior to ATE, we hope to not only attract more long-haul buyers to Fiji, but also give them the opportunity to understand and experience the great variety of tourism product we have to offer." More than 150 international travel buyers from Australia, New Zealand, the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Europe, China, South Korea and India participated in the inaugural FTE last month. Buyers participated in 16,000 appointments with more than 230 operators and businesses exhibiting at the event, which was the first major event hosted by the new Denarau Island Convention Centre. Full details of the event program and registration process will be released this month. For more information on FTE and Tourism Fiji, visit www.fijiantourismexpo.com.

Dream Yacht Charter renews fleet of luxury catamarans IN RESPONSE to the growing demand for cabin cruise products on deluxe sailing catamarans, Dream Yacht Charter has increased and renewed its fleet of luxury catamarans. With the arrival of three new luxury vessels the Tahitian-based cruising operator has increased its fleet to a total of five catamarans for 2015. Available for four, five-, eight-, and 11-day itineraries, the new catamarans feature six en-suite cabins to accommodate groups of up to 12 passengers for private charters in all of the French Polynesian archipelagos. Onboard service is provided by a professional crew consisting of a skipper and hostess/cook.

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SITUATED IN the South West Pacific, Vanuatu is an archipelago of 82 islands with 113 distinct languages. As it was once a condominium of France and Great Britain, both French and English are widely spoken there. Custom and culture, swimming, diving and snorkeling, climbing, and active volcanoes are all available at the destination. Accommodation consists of resort hotels, small boutique and eco friendly hotels, bungalows and rental holiday homes. For more information visit: www.vanuatu.travel

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pacificislands We asked our staff the following question this week: Do you have a secret talent and, if so, what is it? Publisher: Jeanette Ratcliffe jeanette.ratcliffe@travelbulletin.co.uk I was once a famous composer.

Editor: Lauretta Wright lauretta.wright@travelbulletin.co.uk I make the most awesome cupcakes - I have a secret recipe!

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

Contributing Editor: Paul Scudamore post@travelbulletin.co.uk

AUSTRAVEL IS offering an eight-day Fiji holiday with prices from £1,369 per person and savings of £260 per couple. It includes a week at the three-star Fiji Hideaway Hotel on a bed-and-breakfast basis and flights from Heathrow with Cathay Pacific, based on travel in October. A nine-day Cook Islands holiday is also being highlighted, with prices from £2,349 per person and savings of £300 per couple. It includes a five-night breakfast stay at the three-star Tamanu Beach Village on Aitutaki followed by three nights at the threestar Moana Sands Beachfront Hotel in Rarotonga. The deal includes flights from Heathrow with Air New Zealand and transfers, and is based on travel in October. For details call 0800-988 4834 or see www.austravel.com

I sketch and paint. And cook a bit.

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New ship announced for the Marquesas Island Adventure Cruises COMPAGNIE POLYNÉSIENNE de Transport Maritime, operators of the Marquesas Island adventure cruises, has announced the commissioning of a new ship, to be named Aranui 5. The 254 passenger ship, scheduled to launch in June next year, will replace the current 200 passenger Aranui 3 and will continue the company’s island cruises, which operate between Tahiti and the Marquesas Islands. Offering 30 suites with balconies, 32 superior deluxe rooms with balconies (two without balconies), 40 staterooms and berths for 24 passengers in class C cabins, the Aranui 5 can accommodate up to 254 cruising guests. Public areas will include a sky bar, ballroom, two conference suites, lounges, a library, video and computer room, shopping centre, swimming pool, whirlpool, fitness room and spa. Aranui 5’s maiden voyage is scheduled to depart from Papeete, Tahiti, on September 19, 2015 and will continue to take passengers on a 14day tour around the French Polynesian Marquesas islands. The cruise offers passengers a selection of shore excursions across ten ports of call. A mixture of scheduled trips and free time to explore, shop and eat local delicacies are also available. Planned excursions include snorkelling in the lagoons of Tuamotu; a visit to the towering cliffs and waterfalls of Nuku Hiva; a trip to Gauguin’s former home and grave on Hiva Oa; jeep trips to explore unspoiled jungles, mountain villages and significant ancient temples; and visits to local galleries and museums. In addition to shore trips, the sailing route takes passengers past a range of wild and rugged scenery as the ship operates a dual role as passenger cruiser and essential supply cargo ship for the residents of the Marquesas’ remote villages and valleys. For more information visit www.aranui.com

puzzlesolutions Crossword: Across: 1. LUFTHANSA, 5. PORTO NOVO, 7. AVRO, 8. BEIRUT, 11. EUSTON, 12. ANNE, 14. INVERNESS, 16. ROOSEVELT. Down: 1. LEONA LEWIS, 2. HARZ, 3. SUN, 4. MONTSERRAT, 5. PARIS, 6. OYEZ, 9. RANDS, 10. FOUR, 13. GERE, 15. ENO.

Highlighted Word: HAVANA Travagrams: (top) City Cruises

(bottom) Cambridge

Where Am I?: Bridlington

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