Travel Bulletin 6th September 2013

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September 6 2013 | ISSUE NO 1,840 | www.travelbulletin.co.uk

Winter Sports Why getting equipped matters when it comes to skiing & snowboarding

this week bulletin briefing red tape is overrated according to Advantage

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puzzle bulletin try your luck at Su Doku for a chance to win a ÂŁ50 M&S voucher

turkey

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operators unveil new properties & tour options

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seat-only new flight launches plus the latest deals to entice your clients

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MICKEY'S MATES… Jet2holidays has launched Disneyland Paris packages for spring/summer 2014 following the launch of a new East Midlands to Paris route.

Packages are available from the operator from April 3 with departures from East Midlands, Leeds Bradford and Manchester. Kids under seven can get free hotel and park tickets until November 12, 2014 while kids under 12 receive free hotel and park tickets from January 1-April 2. Pictured celebrating the launch are, from the left: the operator's Dani Spurr, Emma Park, Adam Hurst and Kirsty Costello and, on the right: Daimian Hayward, Lyn Meah, Katherine Hall and Daisy Oates.

For details call 0800-408 6260 or visit www.jet2holidays.com/disneyland-paris

Cover Pictures: Main - Balkan Holidays

Inset - D-Resort in Gocek, Anatolian Sky

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staff review

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agent bulletin

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bulletin briefing

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puzzle bulletin

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personality bulletin

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winter sports

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the latest updates, product additions & special deals to offer clients we check out a holiday apartment in Cornwall's Portreath a round-up of agent offers, invitations & training developments why Advantage says that red tape is overrated try your luck at Su Doku for a chance to win a £50 M&S voucher which director says he'd be lost without his iPad? operators unveil new properties & tour options Travel Talk's John Guinn explains why getting to grips means getting equipped when it comes to skiing & snowboarding new flight launches plus the latest deals to entice your clients

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New luggage delivery service set to carry one million bags NEW LUGGAGE delivery business Luggage Mule is aiming to carry more than one million bags a year within the next three years, which represents just 13% of Ryanair and easyJet flight seats to the beach and ski destinations that the company services.

The company's director Jordan Makin said: “We believe we are the first luggage delivery service to tailor our offering to capture business from the mass-market holiday sector, rather than just providing a niche business offering.

“We have worked closely with our delivery partner UPS to provide a simple XML booking service that can be integrated into online travel agents’ websites to offer our service alongside the airlines’ own baggage options.

“This means the service will be offered at the key point in the booking process, before customers have surrendered to the excessively restrictive luggage allowances and elevated prices offered by carriers such as Ryanair, without realising there is a cheaper and more

convenient option.”

As well as offering partners XML tools, the company is set to launch a manual booking site to cater for call centres, High Street shops and homeworkers. Via this site agents will be able to cancel, amend and track their customers’ luggage deliveries.

A 25kg return baggage allowance to Spain costs £49.99 compared to £170 with Ryanair and £120 with easyJet. For more information or to book visit www.luggagemule.co.uk

ebookers survey finds Brits want a holiday more than a higher-paid job WHEN IT comes to priorities, a holiday comes top of the list for many Brits – even beating a bigger pay packet, according to a survey by ebookers.com The research, which polled 2,000 British adults delves into how, when and why Brits are booking their holidays and reveals that more than a third (39%) long for them above a higher salary (25%) or a new car (12%).

The research also uncovered that most

people feel the need for an impromptu break due to work (29%) as opposed to escaping for a nicer climate (23%) or even visiting friends (8%).

Nearly a quarter of holidaymakers, often looking to escape their busy work life and quickly, have arrived at their destination without having any accommodation booked (24%), with men (26%) being more likely to do this than women (21%).

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newsbulletin Haven's Anxious the elephant marks birthday celebrations across all parks this month HAVEN IS hanging the bunting and handing out invitations as its favourite pink elephant gets ready to celebrate another birthday across all 35 holiday parks. Guests of Anxious the elephant all ages are invited to join Anxious and her menagerie of colourful friends for a birthday ball from September 16-20.

Throughout the birthday breaks, families can take advantage of a range of sports activities including football, tennis, fencing and archery coaching, crazy golf, go-karts, adventure playgrounds, swimming pools, SplashZones, pool kayaking and even Bushcraft masterclasses. Other entertainment available includes the Sounds of the 60’s show, Clockwork and TV Talent where guests can enjoy the vocal talents of X Factor finalists Lucie Jones, Jamie Archer and Danyl Johnson, plus comedy from Kevin Cruise from Britain’s Got Talent as well as the parks’ all-singing, all-dancing Funstars on selected dates.

A short break costs from £142 per family based on a fournight stay in a superior two-bedroom caravan that sleeps up to six people at Doniford Bay, Somerset holiday park.

For details see www.bourneleisuresales.co.uk or call 0871-230 1919.

JUMPING FOR JOY....is Attraction World's Emily McCabe and Martin Whittall as they celebrate this month's agent booking incentive, which offers a free Disney toy to every agent making a booking for either Walt Disney World Resort in Florida or Disneyland Resort Paris. Bookings (for a minimum of two people) must be made this month for any departure date.

To claim, email the booking reference to disney@attractionworld.com

Survey reveals third of holidaymakers pack food to take abroad RESEARCH BY sunshine.co.uk has revealed that a third of holidaymakers heading overseas for a break pack food in their suitcase to take with them; with the majority of these stating it was in order to save money whilst on holiday. Others claimed it was due to their fussy eating nature.

Some 1,996 people aged 18 and above took part in the study, each of whom had been on holiday abroad in the past 12 months.

The most popular reasons for taking food abroad included saving money (56%), fussy eaters (34%), to satisfy cravings (19%), specifically for children (11%) and dietary requirements (9%).

The most common items included cereal, bread, chocolate, crisps and pasta.

Morocco Majestic

AFFORDABLE LUXURY HOLIDAYS PRIVATE TOURS & TWIN CENTRES

0800 008 7288 www.classic-collection.co.uk 4

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Mailbox Mailings with Travel Bulletin this week include: ● CARNIVAL CRUISE Lines are delighted to announce

the launch of their new 2014-15 brochure featuring amazing cruises to the Caribbean, Mexico, Hawaii, Alaska, Canada and Panama.

Reservations: 0845 351 0556 Email: CarnivalUK@carnival.com Website: www.goccl.co.uk Brochure Order Line: 08707 270 490 or visit www.trade-gate.co.uk For further details and special offers please read the mail shots that accompany this issue

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newsbulletin Tweets of the Week

Who’s saying what on Twitter...

@VisitMaltaUK Will you be here for an action-packed weekend of classic car racing in October? http://ow.ly/niZQK @WindstarCruises Sneak peak at @WindstarCruises new stateroom design > http://bit.ly/18nPHqo #yachtstyle

Superbreak puts Halloween theme park packages on sale HALLOWEEN THEMED breaks at a range of leading theme parks around the UK are now available for agents to book through Superbreak.

As examples, Chessington World of Adventures hosts Hocus Pocus from October 19 to November 3 where clients can experience rides in the dark and discover a world of haunted adventures. New for this year is the chance to solve an Ancient Egyptian curse in an abandoned mansion, while the brave can try and escape the clutches of Count Dracula in a forgotten Transylvanian village. Prices are from £155 per family of four including one night at the threestar Holiday Inn Express Slough with breakfast and a one-day pass to the theme park.

At LEGOLAND Windsor a 'Brick or Treat' theme is being hosted from October 27 to November 4, where spooky decorations and theming with LEGO models transform the resort into Halloween heaven with pumpkins, spiders, ghosties and ghoulies. For an extra special treat, an end of season fireworks with spooktacular displays will be available on October 27 and 28 and November 2, 3 and 4. Prices are from £234.50 per family of four including one night at the threestar Holiday Inn Express Slough with breakfast and a one-day pass to the park.

For details see www.superbreak.com/agents or call 0871-221 4444.

@VisitBritain We asked you where in Britain you first discovered your favourite British food and what it is? Here are your answers! http://bit.ly/16XeDDO @TravelodgeUK Autumn Savers, rooms for £25 or less! Great UK locations to choose from including airport hotels.

Don’t miss out! http://ow.ly/oo2oM @PATATravelNews Vietnam Tours For Muslim Tourist Market http://ow.ly/opc8i

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

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Fright Night at Thorpe Park runs from October 11-13, 18-20 and October 25-November 4

Treyn adds tours to European & Worldwide 2014 brochure TREYN HAS launched its new ‘European & Worldwide Rail Holidays 2014’ brochure, featuring a total of 19 new tours.

To mark the launch, an early booking discount, offering savings of up to £25 per person and a low deposit offer (£25) is available for clients booking by October 11.

New tours include Somerset & The Avon Valley; Worcester & the Severn Valley; Shetland & Royal Deeside; Ireland All Inclusive; Little Trains of the Somme; Normandy Landing Beaches; Langedoc &

Carcassonne; Biarritz & the Atlantic; The Orange Blossom Coast; Glacier Express All Inclusive; Austria’s Heritage Railways; Saxony Castles & Steam; Romantic Rhine Explorer; Rome, Puglia & Basilicata; Rome & Calabria; Southern Tuscany & Elba; Magnificent Italian Lakes, Sirimione on Lake Garda and USA Overland Rail Adventure.

Brochure prices lead in at £285 per person for a ‘Yorkshire by Steam’ tour.

For details call 01904-734940 or see www.railholidays.com

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Newsbites ●

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TABER HOLIDAYS is planning to launch a new satisfaction survey to find out how agents rate its service. The survey will be emailed to agents on completion of a booking and will enable them to rate things such as helpfulness, knowledge, flexibility and promptness of staff in answering their query.

SIMON CALDER has been confirmed as headline speaker for The Travel Network Group's conference, which takes place at the Apex International Hotel in Edinburgh from October 4-6. Also confirmed as a headline speaker is Noel Josephides, who will speak in his role as chairman of ABTA, concentrating on the planned EU amendments to the Package Travel Directive.

For details email wendy@elitetravelgroup.co.uk AITO SPECIALIST Travel Agents has announced that its annual domestic conference will take place at Drayton Manor theme park and hotel from January 11-12 and its overseas conference will take place in Prague between June 12-15.

BUTLINS HAS invested £16m in its family water park following feedback from guests. The company has also introduced a new family Riptide Raft Ride to the Waterworld and Outdoor River Rapids.

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For details see www.bourneleisuresales.co.uk or call 0845-070 4742.

REGENT STREET will be traffic-free on Saturday September 28 to showcase the best of American Football and host a “Block Party” celebrating the following day’s NFL game between the Minnesota Vikings and Pittsburgh Steelers.

EXPEDIA.COM HAS revealed its Insiders’ Select 2013 list, an annual ranking of the best hotels on Expedia sites worldwide, predominantly determined by Expedia customers.

See www.expedia.com/p/hotel-promo/insiders-select.htm THE ANNUAL Advantage Hotel Hero Conferences will take place on September 25 at the Radisson Blu Manchester Airport and September 26 at the Radisson Blu Portman in London.

HOLIDAY INDOCHINA has launched a new website, www.myanmartour.com, which features selected tours to Myanmar, Burma for individual travellers, families and large groups.

LOWCOSTBEDS.COM HAS teamed up with the Family Holiday Association to make a donation for every hotel booking they receive for a single parent family.

Heathrow launches first food guide

CARIBBEAN COUP...My Booking Rewards.com recently hosted a training workshop at The Met hotel, Leeds. A cross section of 40 agents from multiples and independents as well as homeworkers attended from the region and participated in a series of interactive training sessions with wine, canapés and live steel pan music. Pictured receiving his prize of a three-night stay at Tamarind Resort from CarolineWallam, Elegant Hotels is Nigel Fletcher from Hays Travel.

LAST CHANCE!

HEATHROW’S FIRST food guide, created in conjunction with Masterchef’s John Torode and Gregg Wallace, who were appointed as the airport's official taste buds earlier this year, has been released.

Some 10,000 copies of ‘Food on the Fly’, which reviews the 73 bars, cafes and restaurants at the airport, were handed out to passengers recently.

John and Gregg were tasked with eating their way around the airport in 80 plates to better understand the airport offering. Among their recommendations were a renewed emphasis on healthy options, using the airport as a platform to showcase British talent and more ‘small plates’ for people to enjoy with a beverage. The airport has committed to responding to these challenges towards the end of the year.

A digital version of the book is available to download from www.heathrow.com

Book FREE Disney Dining for 2014!

FREE Disney Dining* + 14 Disney Park days for the price of 7!* When your customers book their 2014 Walt Disney World Resort Hotel & Ticket *>V >}ià v À wÛi } Ìà À Ài] iÛiÀÞ i Ì i «>ÀÌÞ ` ià v À FREE! U ÕiÃÌà ÃÌ>Þ } >Ì Ã iÞ `iÀ>Ìi ,ià ÀÌà i Þ FREE Disney Quick Service Dining Plan v À Ì i À Ü i `>Þ U ÕiÃÌà >Ì Ã iÞ i ÕÝi ,ià ÀÌà À Ãi iVÌi` i ÕÝi 6 > ,ià ÀÌà ÀiVi Ûi FREE Disney Dining Plan for the entire stay U PLUS iÛiÀÞ i V> i Þ £{ à iÞ *>À `>Þà v À Ì i «À Vi v Çt

Make family memories that will last a lifetime!

†For arrivals on selected dates 1 Jan–8 Apr 2014 and 27 Apr–30 Nov 2014 inclusive.

disneytravelagents.co.uk *Terms & conditions apply. See disneytravelagents.co.uk for full details. ©Disney.

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newsbulletin Bourne Leisure joins line-up of Travel Bulletin’s Star Awards sponsors

SWANNING AROUND...Jetset hosted its annual mid-summer lunch at the Swan restaurant, Shakespeare's Globe Theatre on London's Southbank. Pictured catching up are, from the left: Bridgette Keevil, Travel Stop; Alison Armstrong, Jetset; and Barry Moxley and Claire Moxley from Traveltime.

Holidays By Rail offers early booking bonus on US train breaks NEXT YEAR'S departure dates and prices are now available for Holidays By Rail’s most popular rail tours to America’s national parks. The Norwich-based specialty travel company is offering travellers a complimentary pre- or post-night hotel stay in Chicago for any 2014 departure of the following holidays booked by September 15: Yellowstone & Glacier Adventure By Rail (11 days from £1,812); Great Parks of the Southwest (11 days from £1,627); America’s Beautiful West (14 days from £1,911); America’s Park & Monuments with Mount Rushmore (11 days from £1,715); America’s Great National Parks (14 days from £2,243); and Western Treasures & Natural Wonders (14 days from £2,175).

For further information see www.holidaysbyrail.com or call 0800-033 7960.

WE ARE proud to announce that Bourne Leisure has become the latest sponsor of Travel Bulletin's prestigious 2013 Star Awards, which takes place at the fivestar Landmark Hotel on Monday Allan Lambert October 7.

The operator's head of retail sales, Allan Lambert, said: "Agents play an integral part in our success, continuing to understand the potential of domestic bookings as well as seizing opportunities to showcase and pitch our brands to their customers. We therefore place great importance on supporting travel agent awards and recognising our travel agent friends as an invaluable extension of our team.

"We are also extremely dedicated to supporting our travel trade friends by educating them on our products and thus securing sales. Our agency sales team is constantly out and about delivering their expertise and knowledge of the three brands directly to agents, and each year we host thousands of agents via free day passes, group fam trips, open days and on site events to experience the products first hand. We have new online training for all three brands, and on top of great commission, our Brainz Summer of Fun incentive offers a £5 Love2Shop voucher on every booking this month."

Birthplace of Myths & Legends H O L I D AY S The home of Mediterranean holidays

Greece byDesign

The Nevis Nisbet Plantation Beach Club resort in the West Indies is offering two free nights and a free upgrade to full-board for stays between now and December 19. For stays of 14 nights or more the resort will also include a free room upgrade. The offer is valid for bookings made by September 30.

For details see www.nisbetplantation.com

www.travelbulletin.co.uk

ABTA No.V5573

$BMM or visit www.cyplon.co.uk

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staffreview Lauretta Wright from Travel Bulletin spent three nights with her family at Village Belle in Portreath, Cornwall with Cottages4You. Here’s what she thought of the property…

First impressions ................................9/10 We picked the right week in terms of weather and our first glimpse of Portreath was very positive – a quaint village with friendly locals. The apartment (on the beach) was tidy and clean.

Comfort ..............................................8/10 The property (a first floor apartment) offered a main bedroom, kids’ room (with bunk beds), separate kitchen, lounge and bathroom. The sofas could have been updated, but apart from that, it was very comfortable and felt like a home from home.

Quality ................................................7/10 Everything functioned well in the apartment and we had everything we needed (oven, microwave, hob, shower, vacuum cleaner etc) - all in good working order.

Affordability ........................................8/10 A seven-night, self-catering stay departing on September costs £356.

Service ................................................9/10 The owners of the property had kindly left some bread, milk and a bakery treat for us, and judging by the comments in the visitors’ book, they do this for all their guests, which was a pleasant surprise.

MOVERS ● MSC CRUISES has appointed Gianni Onorato as CEO. ● CHARLIE COOPER has joined China Links Travel as UK sales

manager. ● WILDERNESS HOLDINGS Limited has appointed Keith Vincent

as CEO. ● ME LONDON has appointed Raymond Goertz as director of

rooms and Jesus Sauri as associate director of sales. ● THE TRAVEL Network Group has appointed Clare Fitzpatrick

as marketing manager, James Richards as lead generation executive, Mark Godden as specialist product executive, Charlie Gutteridge as specialist product executive of Cruise ++ and Nathalie Holder as graphic designer. ● MALAYSIA AIRLINES has appointed Weng Chi Lee as area manager UK & Ireland.

Explore adds Highlights of Kurdistan option with eight days from £2,909 EXPLORE IS offering tours to the Kurdistan area of Iraq, which allows customers to experience the region’s stark beauty, warm friendly people and rich and challenging history.

The Highlights of Kurdistan tour travels through the provinces of Erbil, Dohuk and Sulaymaniya, visiting the mosques, citadels and traditional covered markets of some of the oldest continually inhabited cites in the world.

Highlights of the eight-day tour include visiting traditional tea houses, picnicking with the locals, travelling along Hamilton Road to see the 12 km wide Gali Ali Beg Canyon and taking in Azmar Mountain.

Departures are in October and November and prices start from £2,909 per person including flights, seven nights’ breakfast accommodation in hotels, most meals, transport, and the services of a tour guide and driver.

For further information or to book visit www.explore.co.uk or call 0844-499 0901.

Good to know ............................................

Take some DVDs with you to keep the kids amused as the apartment also has a DVD player. Also try and visit Sunset Beach (20 mins by car) as it's stunning!

WEBSCLUSIVES

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

BROCHURE OF THE WEEK: Carnival Cruise Lines 2014-15 brochure featuring amazing cruises to the Caribbean, Mexico, Hawaii, Alaska, Canada and Panama. To view in digital format, go to: www.travelbulletin.co.uk

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Jetset recently hosted their 5th annual MidSummer Lunch, for some of their top agents.

Video highlights of this event can be viewed now on: www.travelbulletin.co.uk/video-box.

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Complete any of Brand USA’s ‘USA Discovery Program’ modules for the chance to win an iPad mini. For more details, go to www.usadiscoveryprogram.co.uk .

8.5/ 10

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

Go

www.travelbulletin.co.uk

All this and more at:

www.travelbulletin.co.uk The home of the web savvy travel agent 8

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Booking incentive UNIVERSAL STUDIOS is giving away a collector's film box set (worth £250) this month and next for agents selling tickets to Universal Studios Hollywood to clients travelling to Los Angeles at any time this year or next. Agents can book online at www.universalstudioshollywood.com and send their details via email to salesandmarketing@nbcuni.com.The draws will take place on October 2 and November 6.

Training updates BALKAN HOLIDAYS is giving agents a chance to learn about selling ski and board holidays and receive a free ski lesson, during a series of 11 training days being held by the operator at dry ski slopes around the UK this month and next. Starting on September 10, the winter ski training days are planned for Sunderland, Glasgow, Manchester, East Midlands, Hemel Hempstead, Plymouth, Bristol and Cardiff.

Further details on how to register can be found at www.facebook.com/bhagents AITO SPECIALIST Travel Agents is holding networking dinners for its members this autumn. The events will take place in London on September 23, Bristol on September 24, York on September 25, Midlands on September 30 and Essex on October 1, and will see agent and operator members come together for product updates and news.

AGENTS ARE being invited to attend two Destination Wedding events this month where partners include Tourism Fiji, Seychelles Tourist Office, Hard Rock All Inclusive Mexico & Dominican Republic, Harlequin Resorts and Blue Waters & Cove Suites Antigua & Coco Reef Resort, Tobago. The first takes place on Tuesday September 24 in Solihull and the second event is on Wednesday September 25 in Bolton. The evenings commence at 18:00 and end no later than 21:30.

For details email events@destination-representation.com

Agent invites HOLIDAY INN Camden Lock is celebrating being part of the Camden scene for the past ten years and is inviting agents to join them by attending a hosted event on Wednesday September 11. The Camden Lord Mayor, Jonathan Simpson, will be attending and the hotel will announce its charity partner for the year plus its internship programme for the local community. The event will be held from 17:30-20:00.

To register or for more information email sales@hicamdenlock.co.uk or call 020-7485 4343.

OMAN TAKES to the road with its Short Film Festival roadshow and agents are being invited to attend. The events take place in Glasgow on Ocober 1, Manchester on October 2 and London on October 3. Agents will get the opportunity to experience Oman through a series of short films about the destination, as well as spend time in a souk where they will meet Omani suppliers.

For details email oman@representationplus.co.uk

Agent offer MY BOOKING Rewards (MBR) has launched a bespoke Agent Loyalty Reward Card which allows agents to receive cash rewards directly on to their own MBR cash card when reporting bookings via a number of participating suppliers within the MBR network, increasing security and efficiency of the rewarding process. Suppliers to adopt the card include Jamaica Tourist Board, Barbados Tourism Authority, Amaryllis Hotel Barbados, Nassau Paradise Island, Heritage Hotels Kenya, Jewel Resorts Jamaica, Smugglers Cove St Lucia and Calabash Cove St Lucia. In addition to supplier cash rewards, the company will also issue bonus cash prizes to MBR card holders on an ongoing basis.

For details see www.mybookingrewards.com

FLORIDA FUN...Funway Holidays recently ran a competition for agents to win a Walt Disney World holiday for two. Pictured is Anne Butler (right) of Spitfire Travel, who won flights, seven nights at Disney’s Grand Florida Resort & Spa, seven-day premium tickets and US$250, valid at Orlando Premium Outlets, with the operator's sales development manager, Fiona Boss. Meanwhile, the operator is preparing to celebrate its one millionth passenger and has predicted that the landmark sale will happen in mid-September. The agent that makes the sale will be rewarded with £250, which will be loaded on to their Funway MoneyCard.

For details see www.funway.trucash.com www.travelbulletin.co.uk

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Industry Insight by...

David Moon, head of business development at Advantage, says that red tape is overrated...

aving been in travel for more than 25 years I’ve witnessed a lot of change in our industry. No doubt this trend will continue to challenge and change the trade we all care so much about.

What has become more and more evident is the amount of red tape that gets in the way of actually trying to sell a holiday! None more so than in the world of retail travel.

Following the ATOL reform last year, retail travel has become much more complex. When an agent is selling a holiday, not only do they have to ensure they are selling the right holiday for the customer they also have to consider how they are selling the holiday, as this will have an impact on whether they are trading as an agent or principal and importantly, within the law.

I’m not knocking the ATOL reform as clearly something needed to be done and it’s in everyone’s interest that we have an industry where consumer protection and clarity are at the forefront. However there are still loopholes which need to be closed.

One of the major frustrations for retailers and the wider industry must be the low cost airline type holidays. At the moment a customer can book a flight on a low cost carrier’s website and then click on a link which enables them to book a hotel through another supplier. Even though there is an obvious commercial arrangement between the two parties, this type of holiday does not require any consumer protection under the ATOL scheme.

Surely that cannot be right?

If the government’s priority is to ensure consumers are financially protected by a self-regulated industry then this type of loophole has to be closed in order to restore credibility in our industry.

The above is a typical example of red tape that can constrain a retail travel business. However, there are solutions in the marketplace for retail agents which can help overcome the red tape challenge and an area where, at Advantage, we have seen more interest from both our existing members and also from new entrants to the market.

Managed service schemes have been around in the marketplace for some time. Advantage launched its scheme, Advantage Managed Services (AMS), in 2009. These schemes generally offer the agent an “off the shelf” solution providing ABTA and ATOL licensing, access to PDQ facilities, technology platforms and in the case of AMS we also manage the supplier payments on behalf of the travel agent.

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“There are solutions in the marketplace for retail agents which can help overcome the red tape challenge and an area where, at Advantage, we have seen more interest from both our existing members and also from new entrants to the market” AMS takes away the headache of arranging bonds for licences as we provide both ABTA and ATOL facilities so an agent has the choice to act in an agency or principal capacity. Additionally, we provide our AMS members with up to date guidance and support to ensure that they act within the framework of the law and this support is important to them.

Advantage Managed Services can support a business in a number of different ways.

For instance, Sunninghill Travel joined AMS in February 2012. Branch manager Tony Bassett said: “All our back office finance, including bank reconciliation and supplier payments is handled by AMS, saving the agency hours of work.”

That time saving has been put to good use. In the first 12 months sales were up by around 35% and in year two they are seeing 100% growth over last year. Being part of AMS has enabled them to focus and put their energy into sales.

The next example is a good one as it comes out of adversity. We know Thomas Cook/Co-op has had a tough time of late and they have had to close a significant number of shops. A while ago we were approached by Claire Milby and Lisa Barnes. Both were working at stores earmarked for closure. Not wanting to sit around and await the inevitable, Claire and Lisa decided to open their own agency.

Having had their AMS application approved they started trading in August. So from branch manager to business owner in the space of three months! The entrepreneurial spirit is far from dead.

Unfortunately, the red tape isn’t going to go away; however, looking at your business differently and making adjustments to how you trade can take many of the headaches away! www.travelbulletin.co.uk

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puzzlebulletin Travagrams

Su Doku Win a £50 M&S voucher in the travelbulletin Su Doku prize puzzle Number: 126

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

She Sin Unjust

A➠

B➠ These tour operators send holiday makers to Tunisia, where there is guaranteed to be ‘sunshine’

C➠

Atrium I Us

D➠ Fill in all the squares in the grid so that each row, column and each of the 3 x 3 squares contains the digits 1-9.

Once you have completed the puzzle, simply identify the numbers that relate to the letters, A, B, C and D then e-mail the solution, with your name, company name, and full postal address plus phone and ABTA number if applicable to: competition@travelbulletin.co.uk Closing date for entries is Thursday, October xxth. Solution and new puzzle will appear next week.

The winner for 16th August is Janice Dymond, Mike Coles Travel in Exeter.

September 16 Solution: A=6 B=1 C=3 D=8

This tiny Island in the Indian Ocean is famous for its climate and sandy beaches.

Where Am I?

Can go before 'pier' and 'Warriors'.

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

Number: 126

Across 1. Operator specialising in Scandinavia (5) 3. Red Funnel operates to this port (5) 5. Scenic tourist destination in the Bernese Oberland (10) 9. Corfu is in this sea (6) 10. The largest island of the Seychelles (4) 13. Zion National Park is in this US State (4) 14. Geordie singer with a cheeky tattoo of roses (6) 16. The most populous state in the USA (10) 19. Last letter of the Greek alphabet (5) 20. One of the English ports used by Fred Olsen cruise ships (5)

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Down 1. Documentary film featuring One Direction (4,2,2) 2. Newly opened viewpoint on the 16th floor of a Zagreb skyscraper (3) 3. African country (4) 4. Hereford is on this river (3) 6. Polynesian kingdom (5) 7. First name of Welsh, Man U footballer (4) 8. Tour operator specialising in holidays to Malta (8) 11. Scottish island (5) 12. Columbus is the state capital (4) 15. Well-known tourist city in Tuscany (4) 17. Arrecife airport code (3) 18. South American city, in short (3)

For the solution to the Crossword, Where Am I? and Travagrams, please see page 22 September 6 2013

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personalitybulletin

Vicenç Capdevila The director of the London office at the Catalan Tourist Board UK & Ireland says he’d be lost without his iPad and has always dreamed of running a restaurant…

Who is your ideal travelling companion?

Anyone who is easy-going, likes to explore the world and loves food.

What's your earliest childhood memory?

One of my earlier, very fond memories is spending the summers with my grandparents in Castellterçol village, inland Catalonia, wandering through fields, climbing trees, swimming in the lake, being able to have the freedom of the outdoors from early morning until dark, without a care in the world.

“My father has always been an inspiration for me. He has shared his insights on the value of discipline, hard work and integrity and the importance of setting and achieving ambitious goals”

Where was your last work-related trip?

I went to La Seu d’Urgell at the beginning of June for our annual “BUY Catalonia” workshop. The city, located at the heart of the Catalan Pyrenees, has an extraordinary medieval quarter dominated by a large and impressive Romanesque Cathedral built in the 12th century. It was great to be there with tour operators and travel agents from all over the world and share with them what the Catalan Pyrenees can offer, from gastronomy, outdoor activities, culture and wellness.

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

Nick Cave. Has to be great to perform in front of a big crowd all round the world and make them have a great time; unfortunately for me I have a terrible voice and no rhythm whatsoever.

What three words would your friends use to describe you?

Enthusiastic, friendly and confident.

What have your travels taught you?

Travelling with an open mind not only makes travel better but also makes our lives easier.

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Career path ● ●

●

●

Catalan Tourist Board UK & Ireland: Director - July 2012-present Lleida Airport: Business development manager - commercial and marketing department - January 2010-July 2012 Aeroports de Catalunya: Asia area manager - September 2008-January 2010 Hunter & Palmer: Air broker - 2005September 2008

What is the best advice you recall?

Don’t judge a book by its cover.

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

My father has always been an inspiration for me. He has shared his insights on the value of discipline, hard work and integrity and the importance of setting and achieving ambitious goals.

What's your favourite city and why?

Barcelona. I’ve been in many cities around the world but every time I go back to my hometown it surprises and inspires me anew. Excellent weather all year round, amazing food, laidback lifestyle, history, people, architecture,

September 6 2013

beaches and a plethora of activities. It’s a very lively city, where there is always something to do and you would need a lifetime to do it in.

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

I would be running a restaurant; something that has always been on my mind.

What is your motto in life?

Same as Nike - just do it!

What is your favourite mode of travel?

Short distances - bicycle, long distances plane If you had a super power what would it be and why?

Teleportation, it would make life so much easier, especially in London.

What item do you always take with you when travelling?

My iPad, don’t know what I would do without it.

What's your favourite airline and why?

Vueling has, for me, one of the best quality/price ratios for a low-cost carrier in Europe, excellent customer service friendly staff, which is very rare nowadays.

What’s your favourite movie of all time?

Pulp Fiction. Quentin Tarantino is my favourite director. His latest movie, ‘Django Unchained’, is a masterpiece.

What do you love about your job?

Every day is different, working with fantastic colleagues, the opportunity to meet and engage with interesting people from the travel industry, seeing our work come to life and the sense of contribution to my country.

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turkey PERCHED ON the hillside of the Datça Peninsula, the D-Hotel Maris in Marmaris is a luxury complex located in the middle of a nature conservation area, surrounded by forest and fronted by a private bay and white sandy beaches. The hotel, which reportedly has the third highest concentration of Oxygen in the world, features its own spa with a heated indoor pool, an ‘infinity Jacuzzi’, a Turkish hammam and treatments such as the four-handed Purva Karma massage, which combines traditional massage techniques with reflexology. Deluxe sea view rooms at the hotel start from £320 per night, including breakfast and taxes.

For more information visit www.dhotel.com.tr

Classic Collection adds new Marti properties in Istanbul & Hisaronu Bay CLASSIC COLLECTION Holidays has added two Marti properties to its Turkey programme.

The five-star Marti Istanbul is located in Taksim Square, close to a range of restaurants, bars, cafés, shops and nightlife.

Meanwhile, the Marti Hemithea, which owes its name to the Goddess of Greek health and beauty, is a boutique 32-room hotel with a seafront setting in Hisaronu Bay. The operator's head of purchasing Gary Boyer said: “Turkey is continuing to perform well and is easily identifiable as a great value for money destination. It has seen a huge increase in visitors from the UK year-on-year, rapidly establishing itself as one of the most popular destinations for UK holidaymakers."

Guests booking a stay at the Marti Istanbul 30 days or more prior to travel can save up to £36 per couple per night on stays until October 31, while at the Marti Hemithea there is a ‘stay seven nights and pay for six’ offer running throughout October.

For more information call 0800-008 7288 or visit www.classic-collection.co.uk

Turkish Culture & Tourism Office welcomes two new directors THE LONDON-BASED Turkish Culture & Tourism Office has appointed Dr Aysegul Gurgezoglu and Ali Selcuk Can as new directors.

Speaking about his new role, Can said: “Ranking sixth in the world with respect to the number of international tourist arrivals according to the World Travel Organisation, Turkey continues to grow in tourist numbers. We want to continue this trend and encourage people to approach travel to Turkey from different angles; such as visiting Istanbul this autumn for its acclaimed arts biennial or to enjoy international golf in the south coast during the Turkish Open in November.”

Dr. Gurgezoglu said: “Turkey is still full of undiscovered gems – its rich history, culture, cuisine and landscapes make it a truly fascinating and unforgettable land. I am looking forward to developing our cooperation and tourism potential with the UK even further as I believe that there is still so much scope in what Brits can discover and enjoy in Turkey – despite the fact it is already one of the UK market's mostpopular holiday destinations. Turkey offers a great variety of travel experiences and we will be aiming to highlight that in the coming months.”

Sovereign offers saving on luxury resort SOVEREIGN LUXURY Travel is offering a saving of up to £285 on a week’s allinclusive stay at the fivestar Ela Quality Resort in Belek, with prices from £925 per person. The price includes a free night, flights from Gatwick with

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Thomson, airport lounge access, private transfers and seven nights’ accommodation, and is based on a departure date of October 8.

For details call 0843-770 4526 or visit www.sovereign.com

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turkey Mandarin Boutique Hotel offers top tips for guests staying in Oludeniz MANDARIN BOUTIQUE Hotel, located nine kilometres from the resort of Oludeniz, has shared five of its top tips for the region so that clients can get the most out of their stay.

Voted by the hotel as the best beach in the area is Cennet Koyu (Paradise Bay), which is only accessible via the sea. The hotel offers a full-day excursion for up to four people to the beach, with guests being transported in a boat driven by Captain Nail Zorbas for €120.

Clients interested in keeping active can opt for the hotel’s popular Kirme to Mount Babadag walk. Raised above sea level to a height of nearly 2,000 metres, Babadag is the launch point for paraglide flights and offers views across the bay of Oludeniz and beyond.

For clients looking to get behind the wheel, the hotel says that the best driving shortcut is the mountain road to Patara and Kalkan, which avoids the main roads and takes travellers through the small hamlet of Karaagac.

Listed as the favourite lesser-known archaeological site is the partially-excavated Kadyanda, which is located on a hilltop outside the village of Uzumlu just north of Fethiye.

Meanwhile, for those who feel peckish while out and about, Cezayir Usta’s doner kebab shop in Fethiye is recommended for its flame-grilled donor and iskender kebabs.

For more information or to book a stay at the hotel visit www.villamandarin.com

Intrepid Travel launches 13-day culinary adventure tour from £1,435 INTREPID TRAVEL has introduced a 'Turkey Real Food Adventure' which showcases the country’s most authentic and affordable food experiences.

The 13-day itinerary leads in at £1,435 per person and includes a five-course ‘kebab crawl’ through Istanbul, a visit to a traditional teahouse in Bursa, a tandir cooking class in Cappadocia, dinner with a local family in Goreme, plus opportunities to see olive oil, cheese and yoghurt being produced. The itinerary also allows time to explore attractions such as Istanbul’s Aya Sofia, Blue Mosque and Grand Bazaar.

The trip departs on selected Sundays from April to November and group sizes are kept to a maximum of 12 people so that the tour can access small-scale, local restaurants and producers. Flights are excluded.

Cruise the islands of the Aegean on La Capria Yacht from €1,250 per night FOUR-OR seven-day cruises around the islands of the Aegean Sea are offered on La Capria Yacht, a Turkish wooden gulet owned by La Capria Suite Hotel in Alacati on Turkey’s Cesme peninsula.

The 25-metre gulet, moored at Selimiye, features a master bedroom suite and two additional cabins sleeping up to eight people. It has been designed with a mix of Italian and Turkish influences and offers the services of a personal chef.

Prices for the gulet this month lead in at €1,250 per night based on a minimum stay of four nights, excluding food. Guests can combine several days on the yacht with a stay at the hotel, with transfers available. Prices at the hotel start from €175 per night for a deluxe room until September 15.

For more information visit www.lacapriasuitehotel.com

Autumn tour options from Explore EXPLORE IS offering a variety of tours in Turkey this autumn.

Examples include an eight-day Active Turkey itinerary, which is based in the harbour town of Kas. The tour offers travel by bike, boat, canoe and sea kayak to explore the region’s landscapes and culture. It departs on October 7 and leads in at £737 per person including flights; seven nights’ breakfast accommodation; four lunches; transport; plus the services of a tour leader, boatmen, qualified canoe and kayak instructors and drivers.

Alternatively, an eight-day Blue Cruise sailing holiday cruises along the Lycian coastline on a traditional wooden gulet throughout this month and next. From Fethiye, guests will travel to the hillside village of Kalkan, the harbour town of Kas and the sunken city of Kekova. Travellers will also explore small Turkish bays and islands with the chance to swim, snorkel and sea kayak in the waters of the Aegean Sea. Prices for the cruise start from £910 per person including flights; seven nights on the gulet; meals; and the services of a tour leader, drivers, boat crew, captain and cook.

For further information or to book call 0844-499 0901 or visit www.explore.co.uk

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turkey MARK WARNER has reported that sales for its Turkey watersports courses are up 15% year-on-year.

The operator has spent £250,000 on new equipment so far this year and is offering free first classes in windsurfing and sailing. At most of its beach resorts the operator also offers Royal Yachting Association (RYA) sailing and windsurfing courses. A seven-night stay at the all-inclusive Sea Garden near Bodrum leads in at £629 per person departing from Heathrow, based on two sharing.

Trafalgar highlights selection of popular tours across destination WITH MORE than ten itineraries to choose from, Trafalgar is highlighting a selection of its most popular tours in the destination.

Examples include a nine-day Highlights of Turkey with Anzac Day 2014 itinerary.

Beginning in Istanbul, guests will visit the city’s architectural sites, including the Topkapi Palace, Sophie’s Basilica and the Blue Mosque, before continuing through Turkey, taking in the battlefields of Gallipoli and the Wooden Horse of Troy, with a Be My Guest lunch in Izmir.

In the ancient city of Ephesus, guests are offered a walking tour, plus visits to the House of the Virgin Mary and the Great Theatre built by the Romans between 41 and 117 AD. They can then explore the ancient ruins of Hierapolis and the thermal pools at Pamukkale before heading to Canakkale, where guests will join in the commemorations and events at Gallopolli on Anzac Day. Transport is provided in air-conditioned coaches and accompanied by a travel director. Luxury accommodation is also included, with stays at the five-star Kolin in Canakkale and the five-star Thermal Kervansaray in Bursa, among others. Prices start from £1,099 per person.

For more information visit www.trafalgar.com

Anatolian Sky boosts selection of family-friendly properties ANATOLIAN SKY Holidays plans to expand its offering of four- and five-star properties and family-friendly resorts for 2014, including the addition of the Jiva Beach Resort on Calis Beach near Fethiye.

The all-inclusive property, which opened earlier this year, has facilities such as indoor and outdoor swimming pools with water slides, mini golf, a mini zoo and a kids' club. The resort also offers a range of watersports including parasailing and jet skiing, and is a short taxi ride from the centre of Fethiye.

Accommodation is provided in one- and two-bedroom family rooms, some of which open directly onto the swimming pool.

Also new to the programme for next year is the fivestar D-Resort in Gocek, which has recently undergone a complete renovation. The property now features a spa and a private beach.

The operator is also adding a selection of properties on the Kas Peninsula and in the town of Kas itself, including the four-star Capa Hotel and the RhapsodyKas, sister property of the Rhapsody Hotel in nearby Kalkan.

For further details call 0844-273 3585 or see www.anatoliansky.co.uk

Ortaköy Mosque, Istanbul

Sensatori launch in Sorgun THE SENSATORI Resort Turkey has opened in the small town of Sorgun. Offering a beachfront location and panoramic sea views, as well as being a few feet from Sorgun Forest, activities offered range from tennis and yoga to swimming and Turkish baths.

Seven-night all-inclusive holidays at the resort with Thomson cost from £436 per person (including a saving of £272 per couple), based on two sharing.

It includes flights from Gatwick based on a November 12 departure.

Call 0871-230 2555 or visit www.thomson.co.uk for details.

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wintersports

VIP SKI is offering a new chalet in Meribel. The Bellacima Lodge offers hot tubs, a pool, cinema and a billiard room and sleeps up to 12 with five bedrooms, each having access to a terrace or balcony. Prices for the season start at £1,129 per person based on two sharing and include flights from Gatwick, transfers, accommodation on a catered chalet board of cooked breakfast, afternoon tea, three-course evening meal on six nights followed by cheese board and coffee and mints, house wine, Champagne and canapés on arrival, daily newspapers, wake up drinks and complimentary toiletries. Discounts of £100 are available as an early booking incentive on selected ‘saver’ weeks through the season.

For details call 0844-557 3119 or see www.vip-chalets.com

Monarch & Friedrichshafen Airport announce new ski routes to Alps MONARCH AIRLINES has announced its winter ski routes to Friedrichshafen Airport in Southern Germany for this winter.

Friedrichshafen, is a skiing gateway to four countries from one airport and is a 90-minute transfer by coach,

car or train to internationally recognised, quality ski resorts throughout Switzerland, Austria, Leichtenstein and Germany including St Anton, Lech, Zürs, and Flims-Laax.

The carrier’s new regular ski routes from Gatwick and Manchester

fly direct into Friedrichshafen Airport from December through to April 2014. The airline will operate six weekly direct flights from Gatwick and Manchester to Friedrichshafen.

For details see www. fdh-airport.com/uk

Debut European Ski & Snowboard brochure from Cosmos COSMOS HOLIDAYS has launched its first dedicated ski & snowboard brochure featuring a range of winter sports holidays in popular European ski resorts across Austria, France and Italy for winter 2013/14.

The new holidays are packaged with a choice of Monarch scheduled flights operating to Munich, Friedrichshafen, Innsbruck, Verona, Venice and Grenoble from a selection of UK airports.

Featuring a broader range of resorts and accommodation of all board bases, the brochure offers ski holidays based on seven-night durations with short breaks available in Italy.

Customers can also choose from a choice of ‘simply elite’ branded hotels offering first class facilities and superior accommodation such as the five diamond rated Cristallo Hotel & Spa in Cortina d’Ampezzo or the five diamond rated Schloss Lebenberg Hotel in Kitzbuhel.

Meanwhile, early booking offers include a low deposit offer of £59 per person as well as half price ski or snowboard carriage for bookings made before September 30.

The operator's head of product Neil Garner said: “As a result of the long and successful ski season in Europe last winter, we believe demand will be strong and that our great value ski holidays will encourage skiers back to the slopes this

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winter. With our new programme, advanced skiers can enjoy access to the vast Dolomiti superski area from the villages of the Val di Fassa whilst the French Alps are always popular with families offering excellent beginner slopes near the resort.

Austria’s smaller and picturesque resorts suit all abilities and offer superb après-ski.”

All holidays include transfers in the base price and customers can pre-book a range of extras such as equipment hire, lessons and ski passes.

Five-day ski tuition is available from £110 per adult/child and ski board tuition from £119. Six-day ski set hire including boots, skis and poles is available from £51 per adult and from £28 per child, while six-day lift passes are available from £153 per adult and £77 per child.

Meanwhile, sister company Avro Flights has launched its full range of Monarch ski flights for winter 2013/14 including Friedrichshafen, Grenoble, Munich, Innsbruck, Verona and Venice. Lead in prices are from £99 from Manchester to Verona, based on an April 12, 2014 departure and £105 from Gatwick to Grenoble, based on a January 4 departure.

A seven-night package price in France costs from £349 per person, based on a Gatwick departure to Grenoble on January 4 staying at the two-diamond rated La Muzelle, Les Deux Alps.

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wintersports

InBrief archer

by

holiday rese John Guinn,

Get to grips with skiing & snowboarding by getting equipped John Guinn runs Holiday Hut and has a weekly travel show on internet radio station Secklow Sounds every Monday at 12:00. Here he looks at the joy of German Christmas markets, but is he pronouncing his words correctly?...

S I consider any temperature over 10°C as a heat wave, you may be surprised to learn that I have only been on one ski trip. This was while I was on a school outing, and instead of skiing I spent the afternoon trying to chat up a girl.

I didn’t leave the mountain with any broken limbs, just with a broken heart.

Because I thought that I was Casanova I never got around to strapping some wood to my feet and go hurtling down a mountain.

Which meant that when I had Simon Wilkinson, a snowboarding instructor based at Sno!Zone in Milton Keynes, as a guest on my show it was a chance for me to learn more about what is important for a good skiing or snowboarding holiday, other than the usual features and benefits listed in most brochures.

Here are Simon’s top three tips 1. Boots. Yes, these can be hired in resort but a pair of boots moulded to your own feet makes six or seven hours on the slopes more comfortable.

2. Lessons. As Simon is an instructor, this one shouldn’t come as a surprise. Each member of the booking should have their skiing/snowboarding abilities assessed. If someone is a complete novice or not as experienced as the others, then they should have lessons here in the UK before they go away. This would save the client spending 2 or 3 days on a nursery slope, away from the rest of the party.

3. Fitness. When you are spending all day out on the snow you may suffer the next day if this is your first bit of exercise since you last ran home from the pub because it was raining. Simon also says that those who have a certain level of fitness (even Sunday morning footballers), can use their strength and stamina to power through any problems caused by a lack of technique. It’s not just the stamina that is required, you need flexibility too. So once out on the slopes a proper warm up session, including stretching, is also required.

So for a great winter sports trip you should ski and ride within your abilities while wearing your own boots. Before you depart you should ensure that you have adequate fitness for spending all day on the slopes.

Do all this and your winter sports will more comfortable (and less painful) than trying to chat someone up.

A

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September 6 2013

● FOR ITS 75th season, Tremblant is offering a range of discounts on

its season passes, including a children’s pass (ages six-12 years) for US$75 (approximately £48) if purchased before September 24.

Celebrations will start at the beginning of the season, but will peak the week of February 8, 2014 with a programme of festivities, entertainment, special guests and fun.

For details see www.tremblant.ca/ ● POWDER WHITE is offering pre-season discounts across its entire portfolio. As examples, clients booking by September 30 can receive up to 20% off ski apartments for this coming season, while families booking a fully-catered chalet holiday for the weeks commencing December 8 and 15 will receive free ski hire for the whole family.

See www.powderwhite.com or call 020-8877 8888. ● THIS SKI season sees the transformation of one of Mark Warner’s most popular Chalet Hotels, the Aiguille Percee in Tignes, France.

The property has undergone extensive refurbishment with the addition of 13 new rooms including interconnecting and family suites. Communal areas have also had extensive work done.

For details call 0844-273 6826 or email lizzieedwards@markwarner.co.uk ● LAGRANGE HOLIDAYS has launched its winter 2013/14 ski programme, offering more than 80 ski resorts throughout the French Alps and Pyrenees. The company is offering early booking discounts of up to 30% on selected accommodation over selected dates throughout the season.

For details visit www.lagrange-holidays.co.uk or call 020-7371 6111. ● EXODUS HAS launched its new Winter Adventures brochure, which includes 14 new winter holidays ranging from Olympic bobsledding in Norway, ski racing in Italy to whale-watching in Iceland. The company has expanded its multi-activity winter holidays with new trips to the Dolomites and Canada and activities ranging from snowshoeing and dogsledding to skiing and snowmobiling.

For details see www.exodus.co.uk

Crystal issues 2013/14 brochure with free packages in selected resorts CRYSTAL SKI has launched its 2013/14 brochure with winter sports holidays to three continents, 13 countries, 132 ski resorts and departures from 21 UK airports.

Norway is new in the brochure as are three resorts: Geilo, a traditional village at the heart of Norway’s winterland region with ski areas on both sides of the valley; Hemsedal, renowned as the biggest ski area in Norway with an excellent snow record; and the small resort of Beitostølen located in the Jotunheimen National Park.

New for this winter, the operator is providing free Wi-Fi throughout all 80 chalets across Europe, while a number of free packages for first-time skiers are available at 11 resorts during selected weeks in January and March. The packages include tuition, equipment hire and a lift pass for the week for bookings made by November 15.

Prices lead in at £1,155 for a family of four first-time skiers or boarders including flights, transfers, seven nights’ half-board stay at the Hotel Snezhanka with indoor pool in Pamporovo, Bulgaria, lift passes, lessons and equipment hire, based on a January 11 departure.

For more information or to book call 0871-231 2256 or visit www.crystalski.co.uk

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s Price from

p* p 5 £28

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seatonly AEROMEXICO HAS announced a schedule change for its London-Mexico City route from October 27, in response to the needs of business and leisure clients who travel to the Mexican capital and utilise its connectivity network. Travellers will be able to leave London at 22:30 and arrive in the Mexican capital at 05:20 local time, which will allow them to adapt more easily to the time change, take advantage of the majority of the day for activities and connect with Aeromexico's 47 domestic destinations, 19 in North America and 11 in Latin America, with the opportunity to travel to oceanside and business locations.

Monarch Airlines issues new version of phone app with enhanced features MONARCH HAS launched a new, enhanced version of its phone app designed to make the customer experience more enjoyable, particularly at the airport.

The app, called ‘Monarch’, offers a range of enhanced features following customer feedback from some of its 50,000 users.

Key features include enhanced airport information with an interactive airport map of Birmingham (others to

Autumn flight deals from Avro AVRO FLIGHTS is offering a range of flights available this month and next, ideal for autumn sunshine breaks in a choice of Greek destinations including Crete, Rhodes, Zante, Corfu as well as the Spanish Canary island of Gran Canaria, plus Malta. Return flights lead in at £139 per person to Heraklion in Crete and Malta and from £149 to Zante and Corfu.

Return flights to Rhodes are from £159 and to Gran Canaria from £179. Prices quoted are per person, include taxes and are ATOL protected.

For more information or to book call 0871-423 8550.

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follow); the ability to find, view and save flight bookings using an email address and booking reference number; banner messages – to keep users up to date with current promotions and news; an improved currency convertor; and additional postcard options.

The carrier's managing director Kevin George said: "The feedback we have received has been extremely positive with customers commenting

particularly on the usefulness of the flight status tracker, find my car, the currency convertor and directions to and from the airport. Much of the feedback has contributed to the enhancements in this latest version which we are sure our customers will find even more useful.”

The app is free and can be downloaded from the Apple Store, for iPhones and iPads, and from the Google Play Store for Android devices.

Delta launches Seattle-Heathrow service IN ANTICIPATION of receiving antitrust immunity later this year for its joint venture with Virgin Atlantic Airways, Delta Air Lines is offering daily non-stop services from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport to Heathrow from March 29, 2014.

The carrier has also announced that from next year every international flight from Seattle, including the new London service, will feature its full flat-bed seats in Business Elite, Economy Comfort seating and in-flight entertainment in every seat throughout the aircraft.

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seatonly VIRGIN ATLANTIC has opened the doors to its Upper Class ground service to all passengers. The new product, which offers a VIP travel experience at the airport for passengers in Economy and Premium Economy cabins, costs from £240 per person. It includes a limo transfer to the airport, speedy check in and use of the Upper Class Wing drop off at Heathrow or Curbside drop off at Gatwick, fast track security, entrance to the Clubhouse including a complimentary spa or hair cut treatment and baggage tagged as Upper Class.

The Guest List is available at Gatwick, Heathrow, New York JFK, Newark, Boston, Washington and San Francisco.

For further information see www.virginatlantic.com or call 0844-209 2770.

‘MiNi’ deals from Air France with fares from £49 to Paris AIR FRANCE has launched a new ‘MiNi’ price offer, enabling customers to travel to Paris from £49 one-way when travelling with hand luggage only.

Other one-way fares include Antwerp from £79, Luxembourg from £79, Nuremberg from £80 and Florence from £89, all including taxes.

Return fares to Paris lead in at £89, Antwerp from £132, Luxembourg from £132, Nuremberg from £149 and Florence from £165.

For bookings and more information visit www.airfrance.co.uk

Boost for Shannon passengers as Aer Lingus announces new Lanzarote services SHANNON AIRPORT has described Aer Lingus' announcement of a once weekly winter service to Lanzarote as a very welcome step in strengthening winter sun destinations from Shannon.

The new service, which will provide an additional 8,000 seats over the winter season, commences on October 26 and is expected to significantly enhance capacity at the airport to what is one of the most popular winter sun destinations for Irish holidaymakers.

The carrier has also announced that its existing Boston and JFK New York flights will operate daily next year, resulting in a 25% increase (50,000 passengers) on its transatlantic capacity at Shannon in 2014.

Thomson & First Choice add Dom Rep flights from Glasgow THOMSON AND First Choice have confirmed they will add direct flights from Glasgow Airport to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic for next summer.

The new weekly service to the Caribbean island will commence on May 1 and will run throughout the summer season. It is the first time Glasgow Airport will have served the Dominican Republic in two years and passengers will have the opportunity to experience the Thomson 787 Dreamliner.

Paul Cooper, airport negotiations manager for the companies said: “Adding the extra capacity and the introduction of the Thomson 787 Dreamliner demonstrates the importance of Glasgow Airport and the local area to our business, and following the success of similar routes across a number of regional airports, we know that the demand is there.

“Expanding access to our portfolio of destinations and hotels is a key part of our overall strategy. We hope that this move will enhance the holiday experience for our customers and that they are as excited as we are about the new 787 Dreamliner.”

Singapore Airlines increases trade support with launch of new agents’ website AS PART of ongoing work to strengthen and expand its relationships within the travel trade community, Singapore Airlines has announced the launch of its first dedicated online resource for UK agents, available at www.singaporeair.com/sqagents Developed with feedback from agents, the new site offers a one-stop shop for all the latest information on the carrier, its operations, policies and procedures.

The airline's general manager UK & Ireland, Wilson Yong, said: “Earlier this year we expanded our distribution strategy to enable more agents to sell Singapore Airlines by providing

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increased access to our best fares. The launch of our new travel agents’ website is the next step in our strategy to make it as easy as possible for our partners to sell our network; this time through ensuring that the servicing support, news and product information agents may need from time to time is always available.”

The airline operates five daily flights from the UK to Singapore and beyond, including departures from both Heathrow and Manchester.

London to Singapore has also been the launch route for the airline’s new cabin interiors, unveiled in July. The

newly delivered Boeing 777-300ER aircraft will begin operating this month, providing customers with the airline’s latest suite of First, Business and Economy class products, as well as a new inflight entertainment system.

To help celebrate the changes and to encourage agents to explore the new resource, the carrier is running a series of competitions until December, giving agents the chance to win monthly prizes including High Street vouchers, Champagne, limited edition aircraft models and two tickets to Singapore.

For details on how to enter visit www.singaporeair.com/sqagents

September 6 2013

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seatonly Wizz Air announces second route from Craiova We asked our staff the following question this week: Who did you last bump into from your past?

Publisher: Jeanette Ratcliffe jeanette.ratcliffe@travelbulletin.co.uk In B&Q, an ex-colleague who I hadn't seen for over 23 years

Editor: Lauretta Wright lauretta.wright@travelbulletin.co.uk My brother's friend who I haven't seen in more than 15 years

Assistant Editor: Jill Sayles jill.sayles@travelbulletin.co.uk I was in M&S and it was somebody I had a crush on when I was at school

Contributing Editor: Paul Scudamore post@travelbulletin.co.uk A long-retired former colleague after 30-plus years. As we shook hands warmly I said "I thought you were dead." He beamed back "I am!"

Sales Director: Simon Eddolls simon.eddolls@travelbulletin.co.uk Bumped into a guy I played regular cricket with 15 years ago at a 1 day international

Advertisement Manager: Tim Podger tim.podger@travelbulletin.co.uk Rob Grover in Thailand. He had skipping rope burns on his legs!

Online Sales Manager: Nick Boocock nick.boocock@travelbulletin.co.uk I walked past TV's Jayne Middlemiss a while back. I really used to fancy her in the 1990s

Account Manager: Bill Coad bill.coad@travelbulletin.co.uk Alan Reid - the man who gave me my first job

Sales Executive: Chris Gascoine chris.gascoine@travelbulletin.co.uk An ex boss from STA Travel about 3 months ago

Sales Executive: Matt Gill matt.gill@travelbulletin.co.uk When starting Uni my flatmate had been a girl I had met on holiday in Zante a few months earlier

Senior Designer: Genaro Santos genaro.santos@travelbulletin.co.uk Assistant Designer: Nicky Valsamakis nicky.valsamakis@travelbulletin.co.uk Production: Nick Salt production@travelbulletin.co.uk Circulation Manager: Jim Merchant post@travelbulletin.co.uk Travel Bulletin is published by Alain Charles Publishing (Travel) Ltd University House, 11-13 Lower Grosvenor Place, London, SW1W 0EX, Tel: 020-7834 6661 Printed by: Wyndeham Grange Limited Subscriptions are £105 p.a. £155 overseas ISSN: 0956-2419

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September 6 2013

WIZZ AIR has announced a new route from Craiova International Airport to Luton, which will operate three times weekly on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays from October 29.

The carrier's communications director Daniel de Carvalho said: “We inaugurated our first flight from Craiova less than three months ago and we are very excited to announce a second route to the network.

"We are actively investing in developing Romanian aviation and tourism. The connection with one of the most popular tourist and business destinations marks another big step for us as well as the entire Oltenia region. Luton flights were long-awaited and combined with our low fares this route will have huge demand."

Fares are available from RON 129 (approximately £29) one-way, including taxes.

For details see www.wizzair.com

TAP Portugal boosts services from Gatwick TAP PORTUGAL is increasing the number of flights between Gatwick and Lisbon as part of its 2013 winter schedule.

The airline will operate 11 flights weekly between the two airports, commencing on October 27 and running until March 29, 2014.

The boost in services will further expand the carrier's connections, via Lisbon, to 75 destinations in 35 countries worldwide including Africa and North and South America.

The airline is currently offering a new deal of return flights from £116 for bookings made by September 30, including all taxes and charges. The offer applies to travel dates from November 15 to December 15 and January 15 to February 28.

For further information or to book visit www.flytap.com

New Air India flight offers four times weekly service to Delhi from BHX BIRMINGHAM’S NEW Air India flight, now operating four times weekly to Delhi, will see improved services for visitors as the city looks to build its growing Indian tourist market.

With some 13,500 people visiting Birmingham from India each year, the West Midlands remains the most popular region outside of the South East for Indian tourists. The newly launched service will help the city boost its share of the lucrative South Asian visitor market, fuelled by India’s growing middle class who will take an estimated half a million tourist trips to Britain each year by 2020.

The new service now operates four times weekly on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, arriving from Amritsar and Delhi into Birmingham at 18:00 and departing to Delhi and Amritsar from Birmingham at 21:30.

puzzlesolutions Crossword: Across: 1. TABER, 3. COWES, 5. INTERLAKEN, 9. IONIAN, 10. MAHE, 13. UTAH, 14. CHERYL, 16. CALIFORNIA, 19. OMEGA, 20. DOVER. Down: 1. THIS IS US, 2. EYE, 3. CHAD, 4. WYE, 6. TONGA, 7. RYAN, 8. BELLEAIR, 11. ARRAN, 12. OHIO, 15. PISA, 17. ACE, 18. RIO.

Highlighted Word: CORSICA Travagrams: (top) Just Sunshine

(bottom) Mauritius

Where Am I?: Wigan

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BOOK YOUR SEATS NOW Monday 7th October 2013 TThe hee Landmark, 222 M Marylebone Road, London NW1 6JQ Dress Code: Black Tie

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