Travel Bulletin January 11th 2013 by Alain Charles Publishing

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January 11 2013 | ISSUE NO 1,808 | www.travelbulletin.co.uk

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January 11 2013 | ISSUE NO 1,808 | www.travelbulletin.co.uk

this week

UK & Ireland New campaign from VisitEngland aims to develop accessible tourism

agent bulletin Mainstreet gives away ÂŁ350 Love2Shop vouchers in new booking incentive

cruise bulletin a look at the latest promotions, savings & new itineraries red sea

operators encourage agents to highlight competitive prices

southern africa a round-up of new safaris, packages & property additions

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Helping make millions of memories year after year... V VIEW IEW MORE MORE OFFERS O FFE R S A AND ND B BOOK OOK TTODAY! ODAY! Vis Visit: it: www.hoseasons.co.uk/agents w w w.hoseasons.co.uk /ag a e nt s or call: call: 0844 0844 847 847 1144 1144

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*Save up to £200 of f applies to selec ted park s / lodge locations and selec ted accommodation t ypes – accommodation only, to new bookings only, is subjec t to availabilit y and can be withdrawn at any time. This of fer cannot be combined with any other of fer or discount. This applies to stays being taken bet ween 27/ 07/13 and completed by 31/ 08 /13. Book by 28 / 02 /13. Standard booking terms and conditions apply – see main brochure or website. # £10 pppn price based on a 7 night stay bet ween 27/ 07/13 and 24 / 08 /13, at selec ted park s sleeping 6 ( based on maximum occupanc y) , subjec t to availabilit y. Booking terms and conditions apply. ^Lowest Price Guarantee – we’ll match the price of any like for like accommodation for the same dates at the same location for the same number of people. Proof of booking price required in all cases. We reser ve the right to withdraw this guarantee at any time. See brochure for full terms and conditions.

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newsbulletin Travel agents optimistic for 2013

Cover Pictures: Main - Visit Brighton

Inset - El Gouna

A SLICE OF THE ACTION...pictured marking Monarch's new winter programme for 2013/14 from its newest base, Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA) are, from the left: LBA's chief executive John Parkin; Monarch’s commercial director, Jochen Schnadt; Monarch cabin crew, Janine Mullin; and LBA's commercial director, Tony Hallwood. An A320 aircraft will be based at the airport for winter 2013/14 and routes to Arrecife, Faro, Larnaca and Tenerife, which start for the summer season, will continue throughout the winter. These are in addition to the routes to the ski destinations of Grenoble and Munich which recently celebrated their inaugural flights. For details see www.monarch.co.uk

This Week 3

news

agent bulletin

puzzle bulletin

a round-up of the latest industry news, reports & product launches Mainstreet gives away £350 Love2Shop vouchers in new booking incentive you could win a £50 Hotel Chocolat voucher by playing Su Doku

agent review

cruise bulletin

uk & ireland

find out what one agent thought of her Sorrento break with Flexibletrips a look at the latest promotions, savings & new itineraries VisitEngland announces new marketing campaign to develop & promote accessible tourism

red sea

southern africa

spain & her islands

operators encourage agents to highlight competitive prices

a round-up of new safaris, packages & property additions Classic Collection boosts family offerings in Menorca

BRITISH TRAVEL agents are in high spirits and feeling positive about the past year’s travel business, according to a new survey from Carnival Cruise Lines. The nationwide poll found that 82% of agents felt positive about trade during 2012 – compared to 70% when the last study was carried out in May. When asked how positive they felt about last year’s summer season, the majority of respondents rated their mood as more than six out of ten, with no agents feeling very negative. The findings are from the line's second Travel Agent Mood Index – a biannual poll that aims to gauge the level of optimism in the UK travel trade. The survey also revealed that three quarters of British agents (75%) hit their sales targets during quarters two and three last year, more than predicted in May, when only half felt confident about reaching their goals. And despite the number of challenges faced by the travel industry last year, travel agents are feeling upbeat about the year ahead. The survey ● continues on next page

PANAMA P A ANAMA CITY CITY BEACH BEACH

DISCOVER ONE OF FLORIDA’S BEST KEPT SECRETS…

7 NIG NIGHTS HTS FROM FROM £989PP For moree details or to book,, call

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January 11 2013

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showed that in terms of forward bookings, nearly 60% of agents said the outlook for selling holidays this year was good or very strong. According to the survey, agents were most confident about booking all-inclusive holidays, followed by cruise holidays. Figures from November’s WTM suggest that cruising is becoming increasingly popular. Recent figures showed that 1.72million Brits took an ocean cruise last year and that this will rise by more than 2% this year to 1.76million. UK figures show that the cruise sector has outperformed the rest of the holiday sector. Adolfo Perez, the line's managing director, said: “In light of the many pressures they have faced in 2012, it’s encouraging that travel agents are feeling positive about this year. Of course, we’re also pleased that cruising is still fairly buoyant and bringing in business for the trade in the UK. At Carnival we’re feeling especially confident about 2013, as we start to expand our fleet into Europe this year.”

CONGRATULATIONS TO Tracey Carter, director of Carrick Travel, on her article in Travel Bulletin, W-AITO-Go!, (December 14, 2012) for her succinct explanation of the current ATOL certificate administration and responsibilities. We have a better understanding from Tracey's article than we have managed to get from the reams published elsewhere - thanks to Tracey. She has however, sent us back into our commercial agreement files to try and ensure that we have got it right! John Manson Typically Italian Holidays

If you have a question or advice for our brainstorm bulletin page please email lauretta.wright@travelbulletin.co.uk

Time is money for airport passengers according to research by London City Airport RESEARCH BY London City Airport [LCY] has found that the average person travelling through the airport values one hour of their time at £189.25. That’s roughly the price of a return flight to Paris, dinner for two with drinks at The Ritz, a round of golf at Gleneagles, or a Vivienne Westwood watch. Almost 30% of respondents flying out of LCY valued their time at more than £200 per hour, and 18% at more than £300, while 8% of those flying into LCY valued their time at more than £500 per hour. The research looked at all elements of a passenger’s experience in the airport and the overwhelming finding in all categories was the importance of speed, efficiency and convenience. The airport's chief commercial officer Matthew Hall said: “With people’s time being so valuable, it’s little wonder that they want to be able to get through check-in and to their departure gate, or off the runway and through arrivals as quickly as possible. We offer a 20-minute check-in and 10minute arrival, which is one of the reasons LCY is so popular with business travellers. A person who flies four times a month could save around eight hours by flying through LCY, which equates to more than £1,500. “However, it’s not all about saving money. The things you can do with that extra time are priceless. For frequent travellers the less time spent in the airport, the more time they can spend at home with their loved ones. Many of those surveyed talked of spending more time with their families and being able to put their children to bed.” Almost two thirds [60%] of respondents flying out of the airport said that their flight had been booked by an assistant, secretary or other colleague, with 33% booking their own flight. The ability to use a smartphone or tablet as a boarding pass was not considered to be very important to respondents. However, it is likely that this will come to be expected as a standard service offering. Hall said: “Services such as online check-in and electronic boarding passes may not seem to be a priority, but they help to save time and make a passenger’s journey as smooth and easy as possible. They would undoubtedly be missed if they were not available. In addition, at LCY we have introduced self-bag-tagging and self-drop options to put passengers in control of their transition through the airport and speed things up even more.”

Mailbox Mailings with Travel Bulletin this week include: ● Cyprus Tourist Office's newsletter..all the latest from

PACKAGE PALS...Graham Balmforth, national sales manager at Superbreak called in to see Laura Cleaver, manager at Thomson in Rugby, to introduce her team to the operator's new 2013 overseas brochure, Short Break Escapes. For the first time, all prices listed now include transport with either Eurostar or by flight as well as accommodation. In addition, 13 new destinations have been added including Seville, Florence, Luxembourg and Lucerne, bringing the total to more than 100. For details call 0871-221 4444 or visit www.superbreak.com/agents

January 11 2013

Aphrodite's Island as the island gears up for Summer. Further details on all the news on 020 7569 8800 ● Your chance to WIN 1 of 10 fabulous prizes with the Hoseasons WIN WIN WIN 10 week prize draw. Book Now: Visit www.hoseasons.co.uk/agents or Call 0844 847 1144 ● Save up to £200 off 2013 School Summer Holidays with Hoseasons Lodges & Holiday Parks. Book Now: Visit www.hoseasons.co.uk/agents or Call 0844 847 1144 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... @TOUCANTRAVEL Mauritius & Dubai Twin Centre - Stay 10 Nights, Pay for 7 & Complimentary Half Board! Book by 1 Feb. http://goo.gl/GiKOc @EurostarUK De Valk House in Brussels is just one reason to have a peek at our £59 return sale http://bit.ly/PqqWqX @vikingriveruk Enjoy fantastic savings on all our 2013 holidays if you book before the end of Jan 2013. Save up to £2k per couple! http://www.vikingrivercruises.co.uk/2013-jansale.aspx … @GlobalHQ1 So Christmas & New Year's Eve are over and done with what is next??? CONFERENCE OF COURSE!!! Book your places... http://fb.me/2khZaGbiJ

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Insight Vacations issues India and Nepal 2013/14 programme TAILORED TO serve the premium and luxury end of the market, Insight Vacations’ 2013/14 escorted touring collection has been released in its new India & Nepal brochure. Covering India (including Rajasthan, Kerala and India’s wildlife), Nepal, Bhutan and Sri Lanka, the new programme offers two luxury Gold itineraries, three Premium escorted journeys and eight new mini tours to Mumbai, Amritsar, Kathmandu, Shimla, Kerala, Sri Lanka, Kanha and Bhutan, to complement the longer seven- to 13-day Gold and Premium journeys. For each of the Premium escorted journeys and mini-tours, the operator has used in-depth guest feedback and personal on-site inspections to handpick some of the region’s best and most indulgent hotels, including brands such as Fairmont, Taj Hotels, Le Meridien and Hyatt Regency. All tours include accommodation, luxury coach transport, many meals, transfers, the services of a tour director and premium highlights and sightseeing as per itineraries. As an example, a nine-day Imperial Treasures of India (Gold) tour leads in at £4,525 per person, based on two sharing. The price includes flights and departures are available from August 16 to December 27 and between January 10 and April 18, 2014. The tour visits Delhi, Udaipur, Jodhpur, Jaipur and Agra, with an exclusive visit to the Royal Palace at Jaipur, where guests will be welcomed by a shower of rose petals, folk dancers and musicians followed by a highlight dinner. For more information see www.insightvacations.com and www.onestoptouringshop.co.uk

Sunset Faraway Holidays launches Luxury Worldwide Experiences collection featuring new destinations SUNSET FARAWAY Holidays has issued its 2013/14 collection, Luxury Worldwide Experiences. The brochure features new destinations and hotels alongside a range of new itineraries and experiences, and incorporates elements of the simply classic one-stop shop, to tailor-made round-the-world experiences and bespoke VIP private services. New found destinations such as the ‘Alternative Caribbean’ selection will include Puerto Rico and Anguilla, ideal as a twincentre holiday. Extensive updates including new tour routes in Mexico, Tanzania and Zanzibar, as well as a refined US programme, are also featured with special launch prices. More than 20 new resorts will be featured in the collection including Mount Hartman Estate in Grenada, which is exclusive to the operator; Four Seasons in Marrackech; W Retreat in Puerto Rico; St Regis Mauritius; and the newly introduced Luxury Apartments and Villas in Mauritius offering more flexibility for families and a wider selection of all-inclusive properties. Also featured for the first time in

Asia will be Naka Island in Thailand, Gaya Island Retreat in Malaysia and Niraamaya Spa Retreat in South India. There will also be additional extensive guided tours options to culturally diverse destinations such as South Africa, Vietnam, Oman and Sri Lanka. Meanwhile, new services offered in the brochure include group wedding services, VIP services such as private jet or helicopter transfers and luxury yachts, and honeymoon gift lists to allow newlyweds to receive contributions to the expense of their honeymoon. The operator's new website will also feature new tools such as a Honeymoon Destination Finder, Hotel Finder and Pricing Tool, allowing travel agents to tailor their search for a destination according to their specific criteria. The dynamic pricing tool will also allow agents to retrieve the best pricing for all the company's long-haul packages with options for accommodation-only or traditional packages. For more information visit www.sunset.co.uk

January 11 2013

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Newsbites BOOKABED IS to launch bookabed.co.uk to the UK travel trade. The company is in the final stages of XML integration with all leading partners to maximise distribution reach and agents will be offered a robust booking engine with multi-room booking facilities, last room inventory and flexible markup earnings. To access the company's hotel and transfer products, log on to the Website and complete the registration or email darren@bookabed.co.uk ● ADVANTAGE TRAVEL Centres is incorporating targeted door drops for the first time in its turn of year campaign. Nearly 400,000 flyers will be distributed via Royal Mail to potential customers this month in a bid to increase footfall to members’ shops. The flyer contains exclusive offers, deals and the chance to win a family holiday to Corsica, provided in conjunction with Mark Warner, with a call to action to contact their local named Advantage travel agent. ● WARNER LEISURE Hotels has launched a range of early bookings including a guaranteed 50% off thousands of rooms when paying in full and up to 40% off all durations and rooms when paying a deposit of £30. There are also savings on sevennight holidays, friends and family discounts for groups and half price ferry fares to the Isle of Wight on bookings for selected months. All early booking offers are valid for breaks booked by January 31. See www.bourneleisuresales.co.uk or call 0808-141 1111 for details. ● CITYJET WILL launch two new routes to Dresden and Paderborn in Germany from April. Fares lead in at £70 one-way and £109 return including taxes and charges. For details see www.cityjet.com ● AVIS UK has announced that the latest generation of the cult classic Volkswagen Beetle is now available to hire through its premium Select Series range. ● VUELING HAS confirmed the return of its Cardiff – Palma Mallorca services for 2013. Direct flights will operate on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays from June 20. ● TRAVEL INDOCHINA has become the latest member to join TIPTO (Truly Independent Professional Travel Organisation). ●

INSIDE KNOWLEDGE...Paul Melinis, director of sales at the One Stop Touring Shop presents the new Kindle Fire to winner of the Trafalgar Insider Challenge, Sue Dunbar from Triangle Travel. Sue won the fun online game by using clues and her Trafalgar WorldWide brochure to unscramble the anagram.

Luxury Prestige brochure from Premier PREMIER HOLIDAYS has launched a new Prestige brochure that focuses on Far East destinations as well as India, Indian Ocean, South Africa, Middle East, Australia and the US. The brochure offers a variety of trips to suit clients looking for a shorter break. As an example, a four-night stay in Oman at the Chedi Muscat Oman leads in at £879 per person, including flights with BA. The offer is valid for travel between May and September. The brochure also highlights affordable options such as an eight-night stay in Thailand from £1,039, including flights and a stay at Le Meridien Khao Lak in the north of Phuket. Agents can also benefit from a booking incentive, where they can earn capital bond vouchers, with the amount awarded dependent on the value of the booking. For more information visit www.trade.premierholidays.co.uk or call 0844-493 7554.

Azamara Club Cruises goes AI AZAMARA CLUB Cruises is revamping how it is positioned to agents following feedback from trade partners who want to be able to sell the cruise line as an all-inclusive holiday. The move to all-inclusive follows the addition of select standard spirits, wines and international beers into the main cruise fare, and the inclusion of a new ‘AzAmazing Evening’ destination event on each sailing. The all-inclusive approach will apply when each of the two ships begin their 2013 European season in spring. Azamara Quest will operate the new all-inclusive approach from March 27 and Azamara Journey will join in from May 15. To support the move, the company has developed a new training module as part of the online Cruising for Excellence learning portal on how to sell all-inclusive voyages.

Belleair Holidays launches direct East Midlands service to Malta for summer BELLEAIR HOLIDAYS has announced the launch of a new direct service between East Midlands and Malta which will commence this summer. Monarch Airlines will operate a twice weekly service (Tuesday and Saturday), which will be available on both the operator’s flight only and package holidays. Sample packages include

January 11 2013

seven nights at the three -star White Dolphin Apartments from £439 per person, based on four sharing on a self-catering basis for a May 14 departure. It includes flights, transfers, free mini guide and entrance to a Malta attraction. Seven nights' breakfast stay at the

four-star Canifor Hotel leads in at £469 per person based on a May 14 departure, while seven nights' breakfast stay at the five-star Radisson Blu St Julians costs from £729, also based on a May 14 departure. For more information or to book visit www.belleair.co.uk/agents or call 0845-365 3412.

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PANAMA CITY BEACH

With an With an aaverage verage of of 320 320 d days ays o off ssunshine unshine annually annually aand nd an an average average year year round round temperature temperature of of 74 74 degrees, degrees, Panama P anama City City Beach Beach mixes mixes true true Southern Southern hospitality hospitality w ith world-class world-class aamenities with menities aand nd aattractions ttractions for for aann uunparalleled nparalleled ttravel ravel eexperience. xperience. P Panama anama C City ity Beach Beach is is llocated ocated in in the the Northwest Nor thwest region region of of Florida Florida and and sspans pans 227 7m miles iles o off gglorious lorious beachfront beachfront along along the the Gulf Gulf off M o Mexico. exico. T The he d destination estination also also offers offers a wide wide array array SJ VIGVIEXMSREP EGXMZMXMIW MRGPYHMRK FSEXMRK ½WLMRK S J VIGVIEXMSREP EGXMZMXMIW MRGPYHMRK FSEXMRK ½WLMRK ssnorkelling, norkelling, d iving, p arasailing and and other other water water sports. diving, parasailing spor ts. Accommodation A ccommodation options options range range ffrom rom ccosy osy b beach each cottages luxurious xurious mul multi-bedroom ti-bedroom condominiums, condominiums, cottages tto o lu ravellers – ffrom rom ffamilies amilies to couples. suiting off ttravellers suiting aallll ttypes ypes o couples.

NEW BR BROCHURE RO OCHURE OUT O UT N NOW! OW W! For more details on P anama City Beach rrequest equest Panama o ur brochure toda our todayy at: www .trade-gate.co.uk www.trade-gate.co.uk

7 NI NIGHTS GHTS FR FROM ROM £779PP! For more details etails t il or to t book, b k, callll

0844 557 0626 orr vvisit isit

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MOVERS

2013/14 Worldwide brochure by Titan TITAN HAS announced the launch of its flagship second edition Worldwide brochure which features 15 new tours for 2013/14 and six new tours for the second edition. Prices lead in at £845 per person for a six-day Spirit of Andalucia tour and there are more than 60 tours with new lower prices and savings of up to £300 per person on selected tours and departures for bookings made before January 31. Special offers are also available for single passengers with either half price or no single supplements on selected tours and departures and savings of up to £398 per person. Holidays include VIP Home Departure Service, flights, accommodation, the services of a tour manager, a range of included excursions, entrances and visits and all port, security and airport taxes. Additional supplies of the brochure can be ordered from BP Tradegate or visit www.titanagents.co.uk to order through the website.

Hurtigruten adds new fjord to schedule FOR THE first time in two decades, Hurtigruten has expanded its sailing schedule by adding the Hjørundfjord, a new fjord in Norway. Located in the Sunnmorsalp mountains, all ships will sail into the fjord between September 1 and October 31 as part of their daily journey up and down the coast of Norway. It is expected that demand will be high to visit this new fjord and the company is urging agents to promote this now to potential customers to avoid disappointment. For clients looking to explore this new region further, there is the chance to disembark and explore the new fjord on a shore excursion called a ‘Taste of Norway’. The ships will stop at the village of Urke in Norangsdalen, one of Norway’s wildest and narrowest valleys. From there passengers will travel by bus to Hellesylt and Lake Lyngstol, where they visit the remnants of a settlement that sank into the sea after a massive landslide hit the area more than 100 years ago. The next stop is the Hotel Union in Øye. Built in 1891, two years before the line began its service along the Norwegian coast, the hotel has hosted royalty from Germany, Holland and Sweden. An added treat is the opportunity for guests to enjoy some of the regions culinary specialties, plus free time to explore the town. A Classic Round Voyage including sailing into Hjørundfjord leads in at £1,398 per person for 12 days, including full board on the ship. Flights are extra. For more information call 020-8846 2666 or visit www.hurtigruten.co.uk/agents

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GREAT RAIL Journeys has appointed Dougie Hill as trade

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FUNWAY HOLIDAYS has announced changes to the

sales representative for the East of England.

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structure of its agent facing sales team, with the addition of a fifth member of the team. The company has also promoted Andy Travis to national sales manager and has appointed Fiona Boss as sales development executive. BOOKABED.CO.UK HAS appointed Darren Hall as head of UK sales. SMALL LUXURY Hotels of the World (SLH) has appointed Tim Davis as global marketing director and Joyce Polsenberg as area & development director. MARTHA GRADY has been appointed senior executive for trade development, UK & Northern Europe for the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB). HILTON LONDON Metropole has appointed Jackie Boughton as director of sales and Paul Weild as MICE sales manager. THE ST. KITTS Tourism Authority has appointed Carolyn James as acting CEO. CHRIS GOTTLIEB has been appointed to the newly created role of director of strategy, brand & communications at the Mayor of London's promotional organisation, London & Partners. MANDARIN ORIENTAL Hyde Park, London has appointed Carly St John as treatments manager at The Spa; Christophe Caron as head concierge; and Hélène Rosier as head pastry chef at Bar Boulud. ALLAN PATERSON has been appointed assistant marketing & PR manager at the five red star Old Course Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa in St Andrews.

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WEBSCLUSIVES ●

Funway Florida Beaches microsite: Explore seven beach areas of the sunshine state within this dedicated Funway microsite. Includes: What not to miss for 2013 and a list of Ten must-do things for each area - visit the site and enjoy the beaches of Florida! Go to: www.travelbulletin.co.uk/funway

All this and more at:

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

January 11 2013

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agentbulletin Booking incentives ●

all expenses paid trip for two to the VIP opening of the Space Shuttle Atlantis at the Center, including flights & accommodation; and make any booking for Blue Man Group and enter a draw to win a pair of authentic Blue Man Group drumsticks. All promotions end on March 31 and winners will be notified by April 15. For details see www.attractionworld.com

TRANSINDUS IS giving agents a £25 Love2Shop voucher for every new booking made until March 31, to thank agents for their continued support. There is no limit to the number of bookings that can be made, but the value of each holiday booked must exceed £1,500. To qualify, email or fax the signed booking form and deposit by March 31. For details call 020-8566 3739. ●

HURTIGRUTEN IS celebrating its 120-year anniversary of sailing the Norwegian coastline, and to mark the occasion, agents are being offered the chance to win a range of daily prizes for a total of 120 days. The star prize is a Northern Lights voyage for two next winter with other prizes including chocolates, wine, jackets and High Street vouchers. To enter, agents need to make a booking for any Hurtigruten product, visit the website (www.hurtigruten.co.uk/agents) and answer a question then email the answer and the booking reference to uk.agency.sales@hurtigruten.com. The winner will be announced on the site the following day (excluding weekends).

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IF ONLY...is offering agents up to £500 in Love2Reward shopping cards for bookings made this month. Agents also have the chance to win a luxury hamper full of cakes, sweets and home baking treats, while LUX Island Resorts will add £20 Love2Rewards cards to every booking that includes the hotel group’s luxury resorts in Mauritius and the Maldives.

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AGENTS BOOKING a Saga cruise from Titan’s new Classic Cruising brochure by January 31 will receive a £25 Love2Shop voucher. To claim, email agentadmin@titantravel.co.uk with the ABTA and booking reference within seven days of making the booking. For details see www.titanagents.co.uk

● FOR EVERY booking made with Mainstreet Travel Group this month, the company is entering agents into a prize draw to win up to £200 in Love2Shop vouchers. Second and third prizes of £100 and £50 respectively in Love2Shop vouchers will also be given away. To help agents secure bookings, the company is offering a low deposit scheme of £25 per person for January. For details or to book call 0191-384 5500. ●

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COX & Kings has launched a 2013 agent incentive for all new bookings made by February 28. The incentive is based on the cumulative value of the bookings that an agent makes and Love2Shop vouchers will be sent in March, irrespective of when their client travels. For total bookings of more than £10,000 agents receive a £50 Love2Shop voucher; for bookings of more than £20,000 - a £125 Love2Shop voucher and for bookings of more than £30,000 agents receive a £300 Love2Shop voucher. See www.coxandkings.co.uk for details. ATTRACTION WORLD has launched its largest agent giveaway to encourage bookings from January-March for all 2013 departures. Among the incentives up for grabs are: Make any booking for Walt Disney World in Florida (including The ONE) and enter a draw to win a place on a fam to Disney in April; make any booking for Kennedy Space Center and enter a draw to win a VIP,

BVI re-launches agent training ON JANUARY 31 at BVI House in London, the British Virgin Islands Tourist Board will host a cocktail party to re-launch its Natures Little Secret Agents (NLSA) online training programme. A number of changes will be announced aimed at improving agents' depth of knowledge on the BVI’s and incentivise them with rewards and prizes for selling the destination. New features include a private forum for agents to share news and stories, log bookings and find out about upcoming fam trips. The new programme also offers a set of online modules that must completed for agents to be considered a ‘Special Agent’ and earn rewards. www.travelbulletin.co.uk

MURIEL HAS THE X-FACTOR...the Saint Lucia Tourist Board has announced the winner of its X Factor Facebook competition - Muriel Morgan (pictured) from Travel Counsellors in Bolton. The competition required participants to submit a short 'X Factor style' video entry. Muriel's entry can be viewed at facebook .com/saintluciauk January 11 2013

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newsbulletin ABTA re-launches website for members & consumers to offer improved navigation and search ABTA HAS re-launched abta.com to make it easier for members and consumers to access information and resources on the site. The site has a new look and feel, clearer navigation and enhanced search capability and makes it easier for members to access information in the Member Zone - from guidance notes on business critical issues to operational updates, destination information and the latest news and views from the association. When users sign-in to the password protected area, they will have the ability to customise what they see to ensure they get the information most relevant to their business and areas of

interest. Members will also be able to search ABTA’s Travel Industry Partners to access exclusive offers and discounts, amongst other things. The new site also features an expanded and improved consumer zone – Go Travel – to appeal more broadly to consumers, offering them travel tips before they go on holiday and when they are away, as well as advice on what they can do when they get home in the unlikely event something goes wrong with their holiday. Go Travel also highlights the benefits of booking with an ABTA member.

Website re-launch from Kuoni

TURKEY TRIUMPH....pictured is Emily Arico from American Express Travel who won a free holiday to Turkey at Anatolian Sky Holidays' agent roadshow in Bristol. Pictured presenting the holiday to Emily is the operator's owner, Akin Koc. The events (six in total) were held to launch the new destinations of Madeira and Croatia, as well as promoting the operator's new products in Turkey, and more than 600 agents attended in total.

KUONI HAS relaunched its website to offer a modern proposition for online users as an inspirational, imageled website with clean, uncluttered pages and clear navigational paths for improved usability. New features are designed to support the customer journey, including an enhanced holiday search facility and special offers. Special occasion holidays such as honeymoons, birthdays and anniversaries are also a prominent feature on the new site. For details see www.kuoni.co.uk

Corsican Places adds second new flight service from Bristol to Bastia CORSICAN PLACES has confirmed a new flight service for its Corsica programme this year. The operator is to launch a second new flight from Bristol to Bastia (North East Corsica), chartering the airline bmi regional. Operating for 13 weeks from June 23 through to September, the new flight will provide holidaymakers in the South West and Wales with access to a range

January 11 2013

of destinations on the island which include St Florent, Cap Corse and La Balagne. Complimentary pre-allocated seating is available, as well as an onboard drinks service (on supplement) and 20kg luggage allowance (with an additional 5kg cabin allowance). As an example of prices, holidays departing from Bristol lead in at £540

per person, based on six sharing for seven nights' self-catering in a threebedroom villa. It includes flights and car hire. A selection of early booking offers, child discounts, free airport lounge and zero flight supplements are available on holidays if booked by the end of this month. For more information call 0845-330 2113 or visit www.corsica.co.uk

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puzzlebulletin Travagrams

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

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

Number: 094

A Riving I

A➠

B➠ American state named after Queen Elizabeth

C➠

Physical Moodily

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:

Is it a Gold, Silver or Bronze for this operator?

Where Am I?

competition@travelbulletin.co.uk Closing date for entries is Thursday, December 17th. Solution and new puzzle will appear next week. The winner for 7th December is Tracey Williams, Kanoo Travel in Manchester. December 7 Solution: A=9 B=4 C=5 D=8

Capital of Andalucia, famed for oranges.

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

Down

1. Suffolk based self catering specialist (9)

1. He is Jean Valjean in Les Miserables at a cinema near you (4,7)

6. Portuguese airline (3) 7. Historic French city on the Loire (5)

2. Portuguese islands in the North Atlantic (6)

8. West End musical, ___ Boys (6)

3. Siberian city (4)

9. Muscat is the capital (4)

4. Volcanic island off the coast of Sicily (9)

11. Part of a dollar (4)

5. American rocker, Bruce (11)

12. RAF aerobatic team, Red ___ (6)

7. Water separating Alaska and Russia (6,3)

14. Disney made this fawn famous (5)

10. Popular Norwegian city for Northern Lights excursions (6)

15. Arrecife airport code (3)

Number: 094

16. Turkey and North Cyprus specialist, ___ Sky (9)

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13. Travel industry association, initially (4)

For the solution to the Crossword, Where Am I? and Travagrams, please see page 28 January 11 2013

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newsbulletin

agentreview Rachel Clifton from Co-operative Travel in Spalding booked a five-night stay at the Grand De La Ville Hotel in Sorrento, Southern Italy, with Flexibletrips. She went with her husband and two other couples. Here's what she made of the experience…

First impressions ....................................8/10 I booked a hire car from Naples but I would advise using satnav as signage isn’t great. On arrival at the hotel the reception staff were welcoming and check-in was swift. The hotel is in a good location with shops, bars and restaurants within a couple of minutes’ walk.

Comfort ....................................................9/10 The rooms were attractive and a good size. The tiled floors looked nice but when the surrounding rooms moved their furniture around it was very noisy. We used the hotel’s roof-top pool which offers amazing views of the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius.

Quality ....................................................10/10 This is an excellent four-star property. Rooms with sea views are available and are worth the upgrade. Half-board was included and dinner is waiter service in the beautiful main restaurant. It had high standards throughout and everywhere was spotless and well maintained.

Affordability ............................................7/10 We paid £400 on a half-board basis – this is pretty good value for money in Italy. However, drinks were expensive. A gin and tonic cost €10 in the hotel and beer was €5-7. Bars in the town were a little cheaper but not by much. Entry in to Pompeii was €11 and it was €8 to walk around the rim of Vesuvius.

Service ..................................................10/10 The restaurant staff were friendly and attentive and quickly got to know our preferences. The food was excellent and there was a varied menu. One of our party is vegetarian and was asked at breakfast if she had any preferences from that night’s main menu that they could then prepare for her. Reception staff were always on hand to answer our questions and offered tips on where to go and what to do.

Good to know .......................... Sorrento has a lot to offer including little cobbled lanes packed with shops selling local wares (I particularly recommend the local limoncello!) If I were to go again I would just book b&b so I could sample some of the lovely restaurants.

10/ 10

Rachel receives a £10 Love2Shop 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.

January 11 2013

AIR CANADA rouge, a new leisure airline unveiled by Air Canada, is to introduce a new summer service from Edinburgh to its Toronto hub, Toronto Pearson International Airport, with three flights weekly from July 3 to October 18. For its inaugural 2013 season, the carrier will also introduce a new route between Toronto and Venice, Italy.

Save up to 45% on summer breaks in Sovereign Luxury Travel’s sale SOVEREIGN LUXURY Travel has reduced prices on summer sunshine in its exclusive sale event, with discounts and exclusive offers across a range of destinations in Europe and beyond, for bookings made by January 31. Clients can save up to 45% on their next luxury holiday with a range of complimentary treats and upgrades including free board and room upgrades, free nights, complimentary dinners, spa credits, resort credits, early booking discounts and special discounts on family holidays, many of which are exclusive to the operator. As examples, families can save up to £3,414 on May half-term Cypriot sunshine at the InterContinental Aphrodite Hills Resort and couples can take an early summer break to the Greek Island of Crete and save up to £1,398 at Daios Cove Luxury Resort & Villas. In addition to exclusive offers, there are additional sale discounts of up to £200 per person across all holidays. For more information see www.sovereign.com

New-look brochure from Al Fresco AL FRESCO Holidays has launched a new-look brochure for 2013 with the addition of a new parc, Yelloh! Village Ilbarritz in Aquitaine, France. The brochure includes a colour coded map, a ‘Parcs at a glance’ page featuring a handy checklist and a revamped accommodation page which fine points each high-end mobile home in specific detail, including an inventory of furniture and facilities with a floor plan. Agents are being invited to experience a holiday from £99 with the Travel Agent Concession scheme, and to celebrate its tenth anniversary, the new-look brochure offers new booking incentives including savings of up to £100 for new customers and an additional bonus of up to £100 off for previous customers when booked before January 31. For details visit www.thomsonalfresco.co.uk or call 0844-774 1515.

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cruisebulletin CMV issues 2013/14 brochure CRUISE & Maritime Voyages has launched its cruise programme for 2013 and 2014. The ex-UK cruise specialist offers a range of itineraries around Britain, throughout Europe and to the Fjords, Arctic Circle and Russia, through to a 42night voyage to the Amazon. Special promotional fares offer discounts of up to 25% off full fares when booked by March 18. Discovery will join the CMV fleet this year in a joint arrangement with All Leisure Holidays. The 700-passenger vessel will sail alongside Marco Polo from February after a winter dry-docking and refurbishment programme. The new brochure includes a choice of no-fly cruises from seven British ports covering departures from February through until October 2014. And for the first time this year, there is also a selection of fly/cruises later in the season. Highlights of the brochure include prices held for this summer at last year's prices; a range of itineraries to the Norwegian fjords, British Isles, Baltic & St Petersburg, Iceland, Canaries & Madeira, Northern Lights, the Amazon & West Indies; Marco Polo will offer departures from Newcastle in 2014; more departures are scheduled for Bristol Avonmouth and Liverpool; a ‘New Additions’ programme sees an increase in speakers, crafts, star guest acts and a new entertainment programme; and a special D-Day 70th anniversary departure in June 2014. For more information or to book see www.cruiseandmaritime.com or call 0844-414 6185.

InBrief ● REGENT SEVEN Seas Cruises has announced a Wave

Season promotion on selected 2013 sailings. Guests making a new booking on any of the selected voyages by March 31 will receive free Internet access for the entirety of their voyage. For details call 02380-682280 or see www.rssc.com ● NEW RESEARCH from bonvoyage.co.uk has found that

the majority of cruisers, 57%, would like to go on a ‘tech-free’ cruise; with just under two fifths, 39%, stating that they would welcome a ‘detox’ from their usual tech-filled environment. ● SILVERSEA CRUISES has unveiled an extensive line-up

of worldwide voyages for 2014 offering more than 200 sailings, visiting more than 500 destinations on seven continents. A 'Fare Guarantee Programme' gives guests the benefit of any future reduction in the Silver Privilege fares for their voyage upon request, while 10% extended voyage savings are available for a limited time on most 2014 voyages, where guests can save an additional 10% on each voyage when combining two or more consecutive voyages. For details see www.silversea.com

New sales campaign from Fred. Olsen FRED. OLSEN Cruise Lines is celebrating the New Year by launching a brochure of selected cruises with substantial discounts. The ‘Cruise Sale 2013’ brochure features 55 cruises, with departures on all four ships across the fleet – Balmoral, Braemar, Boudicca and Black Watch – between March and December. Savings of up to 25% are available on selected ‘Inside’ cabins, and 20% on selected ‘Outside’ cabins. Selected cruises will also offer free onboard spending credit of up to £150 per cabin. Special offers apply to bookings on any cruise featured in the brochure made up to February 28. Guests who have already booked on any cruises featured in the ‘Cruise Sale 2013’ campaign will be reimbursed for the difference paid, where applicable under the terms of the ‘Fred. Olsen Price Pledge’. For details see www.fredolsencruises.com or call 0800-035 5245.

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MSC CRUISES' Preziosa will be christened in Genoa on March 23 and the line has announced the first of many new features to be found on board including the Doremi Castle Aqua Park and Vertigo, the line's longest waterslide at 120m. The Aqua Park will feature a selection of water features on raised platforms including sprays, fountains, water pistols and valves, each designed to splash, soak and delight. For details see www.msccruises.co.uk or call 0844-561 1955.

January 11 2013

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uk&ireland Warner Leisure Hotels launches 'Big Band Sounds' breaks across properties WARNER LEISURE Hotels has launched a new range of ‘Big Band Sounds’ breaks bringing live entertainment from a variety of Big Bands at all 13 properties in its portfolio for 2013. Guests will be treated to the brass sounds of acts including the 16 piece swing orchestra Len Phillips Big Band; Bobby Darin’s Songbook; Jeff Hooper's Big Band; Todd Miller & The Joe Loss Orchestra; The Ian James Orchestra; Chris Dean’s Syd Lawrence Orchestra; Glen Miller Tribute Orchestra; Matthew Ford and the Fat Chops Big Band; Memphis Belle Jump, Jive Orchestra; Sinatra at the Sands - Stephen Triffitt; The Picadilly Dance Orchestra The New Squadronaires; Pasadena Roof Orchestra and the Tony Jacobs Tuxedo Jazz Orchestra. A three-night break at Bodelwyddan Castle in North Wales costs £137 per person, based on two sharing a Standard Room on a half-board basis for an arrival on February 22 and includes entertainment by The Ian James Orchestra. For more information visit www.bourneleisuresales.co.uk or call 0808-141 1111.

VisitEngland announces new campaign to develop & promote accessible tourism VISITENGLAND HAS unveiled a national marketing campaign to promote accessible tourism in England this year. The national tourist board will work with five destinations to develop itineraries with top class accommodation and attractions that provide a warm welcome for all visitors including those with access needs. The campaign will be promoted through marketing activity starting in late summer, and is designed to highlight the tourism experiences on offer to all across the country. The national tourist board will work with Leicester Shire Promotions, Visit Brighton, NewcastleGateshead Initiative, Bath Tourism Plus and Chester & Cheshire to identify tourism businesses in their area that provide particularly excellent levels of service to visitors with access needs – such as those with hearing and visual impairments, wheelchair users, older and less mobile people and people with pushchairs. It will then work with the destinations and businesses to ensure that they all meet the same high standard of accessibility, focusing on key issues such as customer service and visitor information. This will incorporate a number of VisitEngland’s tools and resources, such as Access Statements and online disability awareness training. The campaign is funded by £100,000 from the Government’s Regional Growth Fund (RGF) plus contributions from partners. It will provide a cost-effective opportunity for English destinations to showcase their accessible tourism businesses and attract more visits from disabled travellers and their companions; a sector worth almost £2billion a year to the domestic tourism industry.

January 11 2013

The tourist board's chief executive James Berresford said: “The RGF money is a huge boost for accessible tourism in England; these new itineraries will showcase the best this country has to offer to all visitors, regardless of disability. We know that accessible tourism in England is worth almost £2billion, and we want to harness this growing, high-value market to become internationally recognised as a leading destination for people with access needs. "This marketing activity is phase two of a three-year investment project called ‘Growing Tourism Locally’. Funded by £19.8million from the RGF, the project aims to generate £365million in additional tourism spend over the three-year period and inspire more Britons to take more holidays at home. The project should help to stimulate employment to grow jobs in the tourism sector by 9,100 over the three years. Meanwhile, Great Days Out 2013 will be delivered in partnership with VisitEngland, the organiser has announced. The free group travel show, which was established more than 30 years ago, will take place on Saturday, February 9 at EventCity next to The Trafford Centre. The event brings together visitor attractions, hotels and transport providers with group travel organisers, tour and coach operators, along with those individuals responsible for planning group trips on behalf of clubs, societies and schools. For more information visit www.greatdaysout.com, www.visitengland.org and www.visitengland.com/accessforall

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uk&ireland New Scotland tour from Great Rail Journeys GREAT RAIL Journeys has added A Castle in the Highlands tour option this year. The seven-day tour leads in at £645 per person and is based on two sharing. It includes two nights' hotel accommodation in Glasgow with breakfast and dinner, four nights accommodation at Glenborrodale Castle with breakfast and dinner including a Haunch of Venison Dinner on the final evening, three journeys on the West Highlands Line including one on the Jacobite Steam Train (aka “Hogwarts Express” in the Harry Potter films), an excursion by ferry to the Isle of Mull including a visit to Tobermory, a tour of the Tobermory Distillery, a tour of Duart Castle and a cookery demonstration by Glenborrodale Castle’s head chef. The price is based on April 21 departures and includes the services of a tour manager throughout. The operator's sales and marketing director Alex Roberts said: “Scotland continues to be a popular location on our growing UK programme. While it is a destination many people have visited in the past, they are looking at alternative experiences. For our new ‘A Castle in the Highlands’ tour, we visit Scotland’s stunning West Coast, spend four nights at Glenborrodale Castle – an exclusive, beautiful castle on the coast, and couple this experience with rail tours through the untouched Scottish countryside.” Meanwhile, sister company Treyn has introduced a new ‘The Isle of Man’ tour for 2013, which explores the destination on a six-day tour of the island’s historic railways, old-fashioned towns, fishing ports, scenery and craggy coastline. Prices lead in at £550 per person, based on two sharing, including ferry crossings from Heysham, Lancashire; five nights’ hotel accommodation with breakfast and five dinners; an excursion on the Snaefell Mountain Railway; a journey on the Manx Electric Railway and a visit to Peel; a journey on the Isle of Man Steam Railway and a visit to Castletown. Prices are based on a May 16 departure and include a tour manager throughout. For more information visit www.greatrail.com and www.railholidays.com

Bon Jovi set to rock the Isle of Wight BON JOVI will headline the closing night of the Isle of Wight Festival 2013, which takes place at Seaclose Park in Newport from June 13-16. Also on the line-up are The Stone Roses who are to headline the main stage on Friday night and The Killers, who close the show on Saturday. Wightlink is offering a range of ‘ticket and travel’ packages, with prices starting from £210.20 for foot passengers. The company's marketing manager Kerry Jackson said: “We expect demand to be extremely high this year, especially since two of the three headliners have been revealed just before the tickets go on sale. With many more acts still to be announced, the message this year is book early to avoid missing out. We are even giving festival-goers the chance to save up to £10 on tickets if they act fast and snap up one of our early bird packages.” For more information or to book call 0871-376 1000 or see www.wightlink.co.uk.

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Haven launches Sports and Splash programme THIS YEAR Haven is encouraging guests to get active with a new family focused Sports and Splash programme available across all 35 coastal holiday parks, where families will be able to join in with a wide selection of games and activities and learn new skills. Guests (aged seven and above) can take their first steps into an underwater world with qualified instructors who will demonstrate the basics of snorkelling in the safety of the parks’ pools, while a new Everyone Outdoors concept brings some non-competitive family fun, offering families a chance to play together and meet new people while taking part in outdoor team games such as rounders, frisbee or ‘kick about’. The company is also launching some new family friendly activity walks for this year that can be enjoyed either as sedate strolling options or more advanced jogging and cycling routes. As examples, Seton Sands’ new track and trail offers two scenic routes and includes bits of purpose built activity equipment for guests who want to mix up their journey with some different exercises, while the new track at Lakeland holiday park offers a 1.8-mile route that features some local history and winds past an old RAF training base built and operated during the Second World War. Prices for a three-night stay lead in at £109 per unit based in a Superior two-bedroom self-catering caravan that sleeps up to six people at Blue Dolphin holiday park in Yorkshire. For more information or to book visit www.bourneleisuresales.co.uk or call 0871-230 1919.

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Brainz’ Br ainz’ Winter W Warm arm up Look out for our sales team out and about visiting yyou ou with winter goodies! Plus we’ we’re re giving away 20 Brainz Brainz winter warm up kits this J January. anuary. To T o enter simply book a 2013 break break online and complete yyour our details online online..

www.BourneLeisureSales.co.uk www.BourneLeisureSales.co.uk *Brochure terms and conditions apply. One free child (2-14 years) per unit of accommodation. 50% on 7 night breaks in Spring, May, June, Early July and Autumn subject to availability and apply to new bookings only. Winter Warm Up incentive valid 1-31 January 2013. Subject to promotional availability. 59154

January 11 2013

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uk&ireland Leger Holidays launches Best of Britain in response to demand RESPONDING TO the increasing demand for UK short breaks, Leger Holidays has launched two new tours to join its growing portfolio of British breaks. The first is a three-day half-board break taking in the historic sights of Bath, the Cheddar Gorge, the Cotswolds and Oxford. The second is a four-day half-board tour of the Lake District, visiting favourites including Lake Ullswater, Bowness-on-Windermere, Keswick and Wordworth’s favourite, Grasmere. Both tours also offer holidaymakers the opportunity to experience travel by Silver Service coach which offers additional comforts such as extra legroom, reclining seats, on board entertainment with personal headphones and a lounge area for relaxation. The operator’s marketing director Huw Williams said: “We’ve certainly seen a rise in the popularity of

British-based holidays. Short breaks have also become more popular, as people try to grab a quick getaway to recharge their batteries and make the most of their holiday allowance. “Given these travel trends, we were keen to add more British breaks to our portfolio. We are now proud to offer 11 tours across the country as well as special tours to key events such as Royal Ascot, the Edinburgh Military Tattoo, Chelsea Flower Show and Dickens’ Christmas market. “An escorted tour offers people the chance to sit back, relax and enjoy the country’s amazing scenery, whilst being taken to explore the must-see destinations a region has to offer. And with prices starting from just £139 per person, it’s a really affordable option for those after a few days away from it all.” For details see www.legerbreaks.info or call 0844-324 9256.

Superbreak launches packages for performances at Noel Coward Theatre AS PART of a season of plays directed by Michael Grandage, theatre-loving clients can now see some of Britain’s finest actors perform in a series of plays at the Noel Coward Theatre in London. The celebrity-filled line-up will see the likes of David Walliams, Jude Law and Dame Judi Dench take on roles in classic plays throughout this year and Superbreak has packages on

sale that include tickets to the play and overnight accommodation in London. As examples, Peter and Alice, which features Judi Dench runs from March 9-June 1; The Cripple of Inishmaan, which features Daniel Radcliffe, runs from June 8 to August 31; and A Midsummer Night's Dream featuring David Walliams runs from September 17 to November 16.

Prices lead in at £133 per person including one night at the three-star President Hotel and a top priced ticket to the show, valid Monday to Friday. Saturday performances require a two-night minimum stay at the hotel. For more information see www.superbreak.com/agents or call 0871-221 4444.

Shearings promotes North West itineraries

Getabed adds 390 new UK hotels for 2013

SHEARINGS IS highlighting a five-day Liverpool & Manchester Ship Canal Cruise which leads in at £289 and gives guests the chance to learn how the Manchester Ship Canal shaped the industrial history of the North West of England. Highlights include a cruise along the Manchester Ship Canal and a guided tour of Liverpool and included in the holiday are four nights' half-board accommodation and coach travel. Departures are available from April to August. The operator is also promoting a five-day option to explore the Lake District, with prices leading in at £329. Highlights of the holiday include Bowness-on-Windermere, Grasmere and Keswick as well as the Rheged Visitor Centre and a cruise on Ullswater. Included are four nights' half-board accommodation, two full day excursions and coach travel, and departures are available from May to July. To book or for more information visit www.shearings.com or call 0844-209 7143

GETABED.CO.UK IS boosting its UK hotel stock by adding 390 new properties following a successful 2012 which saw a 55% increase in sales year-on-year. The company now offers 4,200 properties across the UK and Ireland. The operator's product manager Simon Miles said: "We have enjoyed strong growth in the past year which has driven demand for the new product. London continues to sell well but we have also seen a 69% increase in Jersey and Guernsey, 150% increase in Wales and Chester, Dundee and Newquay have also seen big increases in 2012. We predict that 2013 will continue this growth trend.” The company's best selling hotels in London include the three-star Enterprise Hotel, Kensington which costs from £23 per person per night (based on two adults sharing) on a room-only basis, and the four-star Corus Hyde Park Hotel which starts from £43 per person per night (based on two adults sharing) on a room-only basis.

Winchester marks 200th anniversary of Pride & Prejudice WINCHESTER IS celebrating the 200th anniversary of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice throughout 2013, with key tourist attractions that have historic links to the author creating a year of special events. Jane Austen’s House Museum, Winchester Cathedral, and Chawton House Library, once the property of Austen’s younger brother Edward, are among the tourist attractions commemorating the anniversary with events including tours, talks and exhibitions featuring the much-loved Thomson illustrations and the costumes from the 1995 BBC adaptation of Pride and Prejudice. To coincide with this there will also be seminars and

January 11 2013

evenings focusing on the life and literature of Austen herself. In addition, Hampshire Regency Dancers are hoping to stage a ball in honour of the anniversary. Guests can take the Winchester Austen Trail to explore the inspiration, family ties and Hampshire landmarks that reflect Austen’s life. The trail suggests a visit to Jane Austen House Museum where the original table at which the novels were painstakingly written by quill, and homage to her final resting place of Winchester Cathedral. For more information visit www.winchesteraustentrail.co.uk and www.prideandprejudice200.org.uk

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uk&ireland Hoseasons offers predictions on domestic holiday trends for 2013 BRITONS WILL continue to take allyear-round, all-weather holidays in the UK this year according to Hoseasons, with economic circumstances and longterm changing trends changing the face of the nation’s holiday habits. The operator says that ever-later booking, a preponderance of short breaks and a move towards larger holiday party sizes as families and friends get together to take ‘social holidays’ in larger accommodation units, will be among the features of the 2013 domestic market. The company went on to say that as holiday providers and attractions offer increasingly weather-proof activities, concerns over the weather will play less of a role in deciding where to go on holiday. The company's Parks and Lodges managing director Pali Badwal said: “Continued economic uncertainty Pali Badwal means that Britons will once again fall back on what they know in 2013. They will book ever closer to their departure date, and are more likely to stay closer to home, both to cut down on travelling costs, and because more holidays will be taken in the form of short breaks.

“Another trend we saw start in 2012 and which we predict will grow in 2013 is that of larger group bookings. Two or more families, and groups of friends, holidaying together is becoming more common, both for economic reasons – one larger unit of accommodation costs less than two smaller units with the same total number of beds – and because Britons are rediscovering ‘social holidays’, where doing things together is an integral part of the experience. “Over the past few years as more and more people have rediscovered the joys of holidaying in the UK, they have come to realise that the domestic experience is not really weather-dependent. With far more indoor and weather-proof activities on offer, Britons have adapted to all-weather holidays, and so climate is playing a reduced role in influencing the holiday decision. The message for travel agents is clear: promoting UK breaks in 2013 is going to be good business, as long as they understand what British holidaymakers are looking for, and can offer the right UK holiday experience for each individual customer.”

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A NEW Watersports Complex is scheduled to open in El Gouna in July. The complex is supported by Rixen Cableways, the inventor of water ski and wake board cableways, and will house the Sliders Cablepark and the Malibu Beach Club, to combine watersports facilities with a new leisure and entertainment venue. For details see www.elgounacable.com and www.elgouna.com

Monarch to launch Sharm route from Luton MONARCH HAS announced plans to launch a new three times weekly service to the Red Sea resort of Sharm el Sheikh for winter from Luton. The carrier's managing director, Kevin George, said: “We are delighted to be introducing what we are sure will be a popular route. After the successful expansion of Sharm el Sheikh from our other UK

bases earlier in the year, it’s great to be able to offer this fantastic route from Luton, adding to our expanding route networks at local airports around the country.” Flights are available to book now with fares starting from £104.99 one-way, including taxes and charges. For more information or to book visit www.monarch.co.uk

Red Sea Holidays redesigns brochure to reflect upmarket products RED SEA Holidays' recently released October 2012– November 2013 brochure features a selection of new resorts and offers, and has had a major redesign to reflect the company’s more upmarket product offering. The brochure features new resorts and increased excursion and golf options and, new for 2012/13, prebookable golf packages at choice of PGA-designed golf courses in locations including Makadi Bay, El Gouna, Soma Bay and Sharm el Sheikh. The company's sales director Jason Hilton said: “We are enjoying continued growth and are confident that with our increased product offering we will maintain our reputation as Egypt experts. Our new brochure reflects the quality of product development and with a bigger choice than ever there is something for every holidaymaker.” As an example of prices, a seven-night stay at the four-star Sharm Resort Hotel in El Pasha Bay leads in at £2,261 per family of four. The hotel provides a range of family friendly features such as swimming pools with waterslides, an aqua centre and a sandy terraced beach with a coral reef garden made for snorkelling. The offer includes all-inclusive accommodation and flights from Gatwick, and is valid for travel on or between July 19-August 19. The operator also offers a £419 guaranteed child price for any date and any duration when staying in a Red Sea Hotel, plus a £75 single parent discount. For details visit www.redseaholidays.co.uk

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redsea Discover Egypt urges agents to highlight competitive prices DISCOVER EGYPT is keen for travel agents to support Egypt and sell the parts of the country which are a long away from the capitol and demonstrations. The operator's commercial director, Philip Breckner, said: “Egypt has had its fair share of negative coverage in the wake of the Arab Spring and this continues to keep Egypt in the news. These issues are mainly confined to Cairo and the Delta whereas in Upper Egypt (the South) and the resorts along the Red Sea, business is as usual. “Visitors to Upper Egypt, including Luxor, Aswan, Lake Nasser and Abu Simbel, as well as those heading to the Red Sea resorts including those we feature as twin centres with our Nile cruises, such as Hurghada and El Gouna, are continuing to enjoy cruises and holidays and see no evidence of the turmoil being experienced in Cairo. Resilient travellers are benefiting from extremely competitive prices as cruise companies, hoteliers, tour operators and airlines offer extremely attractive prices. This still keeps Upper Egypt and the Red Sea as a top destination for those looking for winter sunshine and superb sights.” As examples of prices, a seven-night all-inclusive stay combining Luxor and Hurghada on the Red Sea, leads in at £799 per person for Gatwick departures at the end of April, including flights and transfers. A 14-night option that combines a cruise on the Nile with a stay in El Gouna costs from £888 in June for the first traveller and £688 for a second person. Included are seven nights' full board on the five-star Viking Princess, ten guided excursions, followed by seven nights' all-inclusive stay at the four-star Arena Inn in El Gouna, flights and transfers. Other options are also available including a cruise on the deluxe Royal Viking plus a stay at the five-star Movenpick Resort & Spa. To book or for more information call 0844-880 0461 or visit www.discoveregypt.co.uk

Seven-night all-inclusive break from £499 from Mercury Direct MERCURY DIRECT is highlighting a seven-night allinclusive stay at the five-star Maritim Jolie Ville Royal from £499 per person including flights, transfers and a rep service. Other special offers from the operator include free late check-outs, discounts on spa treatments and a third week free. The company pays 10% commission. For details see www.mercury-direct.com.uk

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redsea It's business as usual on the Red Sea coast according to Mosaic Holidays MOSAIC HOLIDAYS reports that it is important for agents to be aware that current political demonstrations and clashes in Cairo’s Tahrir Square are localised and are not affecting the safety and enjoyment of visitors staying in Egypt’s popular Red Sea resorts such as El Gouna, Soma Bay, Hurghada and Sharm el Sheikh, which remain stable and calm. The operator's founder and managing director, Sabina Shaida, said: "With ‘business as usual’ on the Red Sea coast, Egypt should remain front of mind for agents as a top winter sun destination, particularly as hotels and resorts continue to offer compelling deals aimed at attracting holidaymakers back to the country. "The increasingly popular twin centre Egypt holidays, combining relaxation on the Red Sea with tours of Classical Egypt such as Nile cruises, also remain viable options for those looking for culture and beach as, like the Red Sea coast, destinations along the Nile such as Luxor and Aswan also remain unaffected by disturbances in the capital. "We are monitoring developments on a continual basis and should disturbances escalate or extend further, we will take any necessary precautionary measures. For those, however, who still feel wary about

Aqaba

travelling to Egypt but are looking for the perfect destination for winter sun, beaches or diving, agents would be advised to suggest Jordan’s Red Sea resort of Aqaba as an alternative. "A year-round destination, Aqaba offers a host of accommodation options with world renowned brands such as Radisson, Intercontinental, Mövenpick and Kempinsk. Not only can visitors to Aqaba experience some of the best snorkelling and diving in the world, but the resort also serves as a great base from which to explore key sites and attractions in Jordan, including

Jordan’s ‘jewel in the crown’, the UNESCO World Heritage site of Petra (only an hour and a half away), or the haunting desert landscape of Wadi Rum made famous in David Lean’s epic, Lawrence of Arabia, which has just celebrated its 50th anniversary." As an example of prices, a sevennight Lawrence of Arabia Adventure leads in at £1,799 per person and combines stays in Petra, Wadi Rum and Aqaba. It includes flights with Royal Jordanian, transfers, breakfast accommodation, a jeep tour and camel ride, Bedouin dinners on both nights at Rum Camp and all entry fees.

ORIGINAL DIVING is offering four nights' breakfast stay at The Oberoi Sahl Hasheesh (pictured) from £700 per person in a Deluxe Suite, including flights from Gatwick and transfers. The property offers a secluded resort experience spread across 48-acres with a private beach, all-suite accommodation and a spa. For more information see www.originaldiving.com and www.oberoihotels.com

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southernafrica

SCREENING ON Channel 5 this month, ‘Charley Boorman’s South African Adventure’ sees seasoned wanderluster, Charley Boorman explore more than 6,000 miles of South Africa with the aim of getting under the skin of the country. As part of the four-part series, Charley visited Kruger National Park with Intrepid Travel where he got up close to the wildlife. For clients who want to follow in his footsteps, the operator offers a three-, four- or five-day Kruger Lodge Experience. Prices start from £475 per person for three days, with transfers to and from Johannesburg, twin share lodge accommodation, game drives, nature walks in Kruger and most meals. For more information about Charley Boorman’s South African Adventure visit www.bigearth.com/extremefrontiers/south-africa/

Mozambique Dhow Safari from Acacia Africa ACACIA AFRICA has made a new addition to its 2013 brochure with the launch of a Mozambique Dhow Safari. The eight-day itinerary is based around the Quirimbus Archipelago - described by the World Wildlife Fund, as a "global leader in conservation", and features unspoilt white beaches, ancient cultures and exclusive dive havens. It includes a stay on Ibo Island, one of several tropical islands in the untouched north. Once an important Potuguese trading hub, the location has also remained culturally unchanged for hundreds of years. Based in the same archipelago, Mogundula Island, an uninhabited tropical paradise and Ulumbwa Island are also reached by traditional dhow. Prices lead in at £1,595 per person based on two sharing, plus a local payment from £170 per person. The tour includes meet and greet transfers, accommodation, the services of two crew, all camping & catering equipment, meals as indicated, Dhow safari, park fees and light aircraft transfer from Ibo Island to Pemba. For more information call 020-7706 4700, email info@acacia-africa.com or see www.acacia-africa.com

Gondwana Game Reserve adds Bush Villa packages GONDWANA, AN 11,000-hectare game reserve on the Cape’s Garden Route, is offering savings of up to R1,000 per night on a fully inclusive package. The deal, which costs R3250 per person per day (children aged four-12 at R900 per day) and includes three gourmet meals, two game activities, local beverages and luxury accommodation in a Kwena Lodge Suite or a private bush villa. The game reserve is also introducing new Bush Villa packages from R800 per person this summer. The packages are ideal for families or groups who want space and privacy and all the conveniences needed for young children. Activities include game drives, horse safaris, fishing, mountain biking, bird watching and hiking. Spa treatments are also available, while the junior ranger programme is a fun-filled educational activity that keeps youngsters busy and gives them a greater understanding of their natural surroundings. For more information visit: www.gondwanagr.co.za or email reservations@gondwanagr.co.za

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Rhino Rendezvous Safari from Visions of Africa VISIONS OF Africa is offering an eight-day Rhino Rendezvous Safari which combines three safari locations in Botswana, offering diverse game viewing and helps raise funds for the Botswana Rhino Project. Guests stay on a fully inclusive basis at Leroo La Tau Lodge in the Makgadikgadi Pans National Park, Camp Okavango in the heart of the Delta and the predator renowned area of Savute Safari Lodge. The package includes flights, six nights' safari accommodation, light aircraft transfers, game drives and conservation fees. Prices lead in at £3,160 per person based on two sharing. For more information or to book call 01444-225640.

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meet the family...

Experience the wildlife at home - and naturally

+44 (0)207 647 1018 dparr@botswanatourism.org.uk botswanatourism.org.uk

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southernafrica Kwandwe Private Game Reserve sees demand for active participation activities ACTIVE PARTICIPATION activities - where guests can ‘join in and help out’ without giving up a whole holiday to volunteer – are becoming increasingly requested from holidaymakers as well as tour operators who are looking for new and different offerings. Offering safari experiences with Big 5 game viewing, guests staying at Kwandwe Private Game Reserve in the Eastern Cape also have an opportunity to enjoy a wide variety of safari activities in addition to a number of active participation activities and itineraries. These were born out of the on-going request by guests on safari to not only experience a traditional safari or to pay a visit to the local communities who live on the reserve, but to get involved in some way and gain a more meaningful insight into what they were experiencing and the people they were meeting. As an example, community voluntourism enables guests to add value to the community projects being run on the reserve (there are two villages and approximately 750 people living within the perimeters). Guests are invited to impart their skills and expertise through the donation of their time during their safari – from just a couple of hours to a half day – assisting with maintenance projects, giving a class for the children or a workshop for the teachers, training community centre staff in computer skills or health and fitness or spending an afternoon to enjoy playtime at the pre-school. New for this year are

Wildlife Management Safaris, which are ideally suited to couples or families with teenage kids who want to spend time reconnecting. The four-day safaris involve team work and fun, quality time together and provide an insight into what is involved when managing and caring for a wildlife reserve. Led by the reserve’s wildlife manager and resident ecologist and working alongside the wildlife rangers (once farmers who grew up on the lands and since embraced the conservation side), the group works as a team to partake in anti-poaching exercises; camera trap set up and inspection; elephant and rhino tracking, identification and monitoring; fence line patrolling – and mending; carnivore research monitoring and game counts as well as learning bush survival skills along the way. Accommodation is split between two nights in Ecca Lodge and two nights staying in the new Research Camp – a temporary no frills tented camp situated in the far reaches of the reserve that includes bucket showers, no electricity and a mess tent where everyone chips in and helps out, including the cooking. Prices lead in at R16,440 (approximately £1,200) per adult sharing on a full board basis, including drinks, safari activities and those listed above. Children (aged 12-16) pay approximately £600. For more information or to book email reservations@kwandwe.co.za or see www.kwandwe.com

Norman Carr Safaris introduces new Chinzombo Camp NORMAN CARR Safaris is to reopen Chinzombo Camp in the Luangwa Valley this year following an extensive refurbishment which will transform the camp into spacious living areas, offering views from its riverside location and private, direct access to the most game rich area of the National Park. The six ‘villas’, one of which is a suite with extra space for families and small groups, will all feature private plunge pools, cooled sleeping areas and spacious bathrooms with luxurious spa amenities.

Public area at Chinzombo Camp

Rainbow Tours adds more Southern Africa properties in 2013 brochure RAINBOW TOURS has launched a new brochure featuring several new properties in Southern Africa. The programme offers a range of hotels, lodges and camps that work with their local communities on people-based and wildlife conservation projects. New for 2013 is the Grootberg Lodge in Namibia’s rocky Damaraland region, which is fully owned by the local Khoadi/Hoas community. Also new in South

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Africa’s Sabi Sand Private Reserve is Simbambili, a peaceful lodge on the banks of the Manyaleti River known for its big cat sightings, while in Zambia’s Lower Zambezi region, Baines’ River Camp is a colonial-style luxury lodge set against a backdrop of the Zambezi escarpment. For more information visit www.rainbowtours.co.uk or call 020-7666 1250.

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southernafrica New development announcements from Sun International SUN INTERNATIONAL has announced a series of developments in South Africa including new hotels, refurbishments and anniversaries. The Maslow is a new, luxury business hotel in Sandton (the commercial and retail district of Johannesburg) which opened at the beginning of this week. The urban business hub offers a new city hang out for young, elite travellers complete with an Africology spa, and a ‘wayfarer’ concept lounge. Room prices start from R863 per person per night. Meanwhile, this year marks 200 years since the birth of Dr David Livingstone, the British explorer and medical

practitioner. Dr. Livingstone discovered the Victoria falls (named after the British queen of the day) and the Royal Livingstone Hotel was named after this British national hero. Celebrations will be taking place in Zambia all through this year and The Royal Livingstone on the banks of the Zambezi River is an ideal place from which to experience this important part of British and Southern African history. The hotel consists of 17 colonial-style buildings set in the 46-hectare Mosi-OaTunya National Wildlife Park. All rooms open out onto a landscaped pool area, and each room has its own shaded balcony overlooking the Zambezi.

Guests can enjoy a safari water taxi when leaving and arriving at the hotel, as well as Sun International’s five-star vintage steam train dining excursions in Zambia. The Royal Livingstone Express pulls lovingly restored period carriages on a three-hour trip offering sunset views over the Zambezi river on the historic Mulobezi junction, with silver service dinner prepared by Royal Livingstone Hotel on the return journey, offering a unique five-star experience. In other announcements, the company has upgraded Port Elizabeth's entertainment complex The Boardwalk, to offer 24hour entertainment, shopping and restaurants.

Air Mauritius adds new flights from Johannesburg AIR MAURITIUS has increased its flight route from Johannesburg to Mauritius with the addition of three new evening flights per week, allowing guests to go straight from an evening safari in the bush to sunrise over the coast of the Indian Ocean in less than four hours. A special package with Black Tomato costs from £3,950 per person and includes four nights' at Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve including full board at Little Bush Camp with morning and evening safaris, ten nights' half-board at Maradiva Villas Resort & Spa and flights. For more information call 020-7426 9888 or visit www.blacktomato.com

Ranch Rider sees demand for South Africa RANCH RIDER reports that it is seeing continuing demand for its South Africa riding holidays. The company's managing director Tony Daly said: “Horizon Safaris’ Triple B Ranch and Ant’s Hill and Nest are in the top two, all of the owners having a strong lean to conservation. "Both based in the Waterberg region, at the Ant Collection guests can pitch in and assist with the annual game census, while the Triple B, a working cattle ranch for over five generations, is home to an award winning conservationist. “Add on self drives are also proving popular with journeys down the Garden Route through to cosmopolitan Cape Town or alternatively an add-on safari in the Kruger National Park is also selling well.” For more information call 01509-618811, email info@ranchrider.com or visit www.ranchrider.com

Southern Africa key to Hayes and Jarvis’ new tailormade travel programme SOUTHERN AFRICA is one of the key destinations around which long-haul specialist Hayes and Jarvis has built its new tailormade travel programme, which offers a range of activities and adventure experiences. The operator is focusing specifically on areas where it has seen a growing demand for custom-built packages and has set up a dedicated team of eight specialist travel designers to service all tailormade enquiries, all of them specially trained and with individual areas of strength. A dedicated phone line – 0844 415 1925 – has also been set up for all enquiries. One of the areas the company expects to benefit from the focus on Southern Africa is Botswana and a number of

January 11 2013

example itineraries have been developed that can be adapted to suit individual requirements. As an example, Botswana in Style combines game drives and walking excursions with a canoe safari on a six-night luxury safari, with stays at the five-star Khwai River Lodge, Savute Elephant Camp and Eagle Island Camp. The trip includes game drives in Moremi Wildlife Reserve and Chobe National Park, with the chance to see elephants, lions and cheetah, as well as exotic birds. A six-night tailormade safari in November costs from £4,405 per person (or £6,529 in August), including full board five-star accommodation, flights and transfers. Canoeing in Botswana

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FROM MARCH 29, British Airways will launch a new direct service from Gatwick to Tenerife South airport, operating five times a week (Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays) and increasing summer capacity by 30,000 seats. The new route will offer the first Business Class service for five years from the UK to the island. Tickets for the new route are on sale at www.britishairways.com

Attraction World adds two new exclusive tickets for PortAventura PORTAVENTURA THEME park in Costa Dorada offers up to 14 different shows a day and 40 rides, including the new Shambhala, the highest roller coaster in Europe. Attraction World has announced that for the forthcoming season – two new tickets are now available to book exclusively, ideal for customers staying in the Costa Dorada/Salou area for seven days or less. The first is a four-

day, two-park ticket which costs £87 per adult and £70 for kids aged fourten years. It permits two days' entrance at PortAventura Theme Park and two days at PortAventura Aquatic Park within a seven-day period. A seven-day, two-park ticket leads in at £101 per adult and £81 per child and offers five days entrance to PortAventura Theme Park and two

days at PortAventura Aquatic Park within a seven-day period. On both tickets, the same day access to both parks is not permitted. Tickets are now available to book and are valid from May 18–September 29. The same tickets are also available to book for just one park (PortAventura theme park) from March 22 and other ticket options are also available.

Kirker issues third dedicated brochure

Health & fitness breaks at La Manga

KIRKER IS continuing to expand its Spanish programme this year with the launch of its third dedicated brochure. The operator's team of Spanish experts can put together an itinerary to suit all tastes and holiday durations, including welcome extras such as guide notes and complimentary entrance to museums and attractions, depending on the location chosen. Many of the hotels featured in the 2013 brochure also include special offers on selected departure dates, including free nights, complimentary room upgrades and dinners. Highlights in the new brochure include a three-night stay at the four-star Hotel España in Barcelona from £589 per person; a three-night stay at the five-star Las Arenas Balneario in Valencia from £598; and a three-night stay at the four-star Monasterio San Miguel in Andalucia from £628. Prices are based on two sharing and include flights, private transfers or car hire, breakfast accommodation, guide notes and the services of a concierge to book expert local guides or a table for dinner. For more information or to book call 020-7593 2283 or visit www.kirkerholidays.com

THE FIVE-STAR La Manga Club is promoting a range of health and fitness breaks this year. Independent fitness expert Fitness 12 has unveiled a varied programme of breaks that will be staged at the property over the next 12 months, with retreats focusing on cycling, detox, spa, the over-60s and the sport of triathlon. The breaks feature three exercise sessions per day with nutritionally balanced meals prepared by its private chef, and spa fitness retreats are scheduled to take place on February 20-24, March 14-18 and April 11-15. In addition to the Fitness 12 packages, the property is also set to host TV fitness guru Joanna Hall’s popular Walkactive training camps again this year, with the first one taking place from April 25-29. Ideal for all fitness levels, the breaks focus on her unique walking techniques which ensure correct postural alignment to improve posture, reduce joint impact, increase fitness and change body shape. For more information or to book email reserve@lamangaclub.com or visit www.lamangaclub.com

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spain&herislands Getabed reports record sales for Spain GETABED.CO.UK REPORTS that it saw an 81% increase in Spain hotel sales year-on-year in 2012, making it the most successful year in the company’s 21-year history. The increase in cruise demand out of Barcelona port saw an increase of 475% in transfers. The company now offers 1,200 hotels across Spain; demand for product in Barcelona, Tenerife and Mallorca saw 270 new hotels added last year, including a selection of 20 hand-picked ‘Directors’ Choice’ hotels centrally located in Barcelona that have all received exceptional feedback. The company's product manager Simon Miles said: “We are particularly proud to offer our unique ‘Director’s Choice’ selection of hotels. Agents booking these properties can rest assured that they have passed stringent criteria to achieve this status and have our personal seal of approval, offering top quality and outstanding value. We have noticed the popularity of city centre hotels in Barcelona for pre- and post-cruise stays due to the easy and extremely quick access from the centre to the port.” The best-selling hotels in Spain include the three-star Duquesa Playa Apartment in Ibiza which costs from £19 per person per night on a bed-and-breakfast basis (based on three adults sharing), and the four-star Rafael Diagonal Port in Barcelona, which costs from £28 per person per night on a bed-and-breakfast basis, based on two adults sharing. Shared transfers from Barcelona airport to the port are from £8 per person each way.

April launch for Palma’s Hotel Cort HOTEL TRES sister property, Hotel Cort, will open at Plaza Cort in Palma in April. The all-suites four-star hotel is being developed from a former historic residence and will offer guests a new experience in a unique location in the heart of Palma. Facilities will include 41 rooms - including 17 suites, a feature restaurant, gym, massage service and conference and meeting facilities. The hotel is within walking distance of shopping, restaurants, tapas bars and cultural sites. Prices lead in at €215 for a double room with breakfast. For details see www.hoteltres.com

Superbreak adds new hotel in Cordoba SUPERBREAK HAS added the four-star Las Casas de la Juderia Cordoba to its portfolio. A property that is located just metres from the Mezquita, it is made up of 17th and 18th-Century houses with gardens, fountains and patios. Located in the historic centre of Cordoba, the Casas de la Judería combines modern facilities with historic buildings. An outdoor swimming pool and a traditional Andalusian restaurant are available. The operator is highlighting flight inclusive packages with prices in April starting from £496 per person for three nights' breakfast accommodation including flights from Gatwick to Seville with easyJet. For more information or to book see www.superbreak.com/agents or call 0871-221 4444.

Classic Collection Holidays boosts family offerings in Menorca WITH SALES to Menorca finishing 18% up last year, Classic Collection Holidays has boosted its family product to the destination with the addition of two large family properties in Playa de Son Bou and Cala Santandria, near Ciutadella for this summer. The four-star Jardin de Menorca comprises of 144 junior suites, two outdoor pools, a children’s pool, a selection of sports amenities, a wellness centre and a mini club for four to 12 year olds. A complimentary shuttle service is offered to the nearby Playa Son Bou, one of the longest beaches in Mallorca. Seven night prices in May cost from

£499 per adult and £285 per child on a bed-and-breakfast basis. Meanwhile in Cala Santandria, the Prinsotel La Caleta is 250m from a gently shelving beach and offers apartment accommodation within its 333 bedrooms. The property is ideal for families, offering two adult pools, two children’s pools, a mini club, playground and organised daytime activities programme. Seven-night prices in May cost from £564 per adult and £381 per child on a half-board basis. For details call 0800-008 7288 or visit www.classic-collection.co.uk

Mahon Harbour, Menorca

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The holidayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s booked,

letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s make the memories!

Surronded by excitement at PortAventura!! Europeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s highest roller coas ter With over 40 rides, including Shambhala, Europeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s highest roller coaster, 15 shows a day and the newly Caribbean themed, bigger and better water park there is something for everyone! ATTRACTION WORLD EXCLUSIVE TICKETS NOW AVAILABLE FOR 2013! Enjoy both parks for a combination of days... ideal for those in the Costa Dorada for a weekâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s holiday!! 4 Day 2 Park: ÂŁ87 adult ÂŁ70 child. 7 Day 2 Park: ÂŁ101 adult ÂŁ81 child. Other tickets available from just ÂŁ39 adult, ÂŁ34 child. see website for full details.

SILVER RUNNER UP 2012

Terms and Conditions: 4 Day/2 Park entitles guests to 2 days in PortAventura theme park and 2 days in the Aquatic water park. 7 Day/2 Park entitles guests to 5 days in PortAventura UIFNF QBSL BOE EBZT JO UIF "RVBUJD XBUFS QBSL #PUI UJDLFUT NVTU CF VTFE XJUIJO DPOTFDVUJWF EBZT GSPN m STU EBZ PG VTF "WBJMBCMF .BZ 4FQUFNCFS 'VMM EFUBJMT PO XFCTJUF $IJME BHF ZFBST

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spain&herislands Intrepid adds Southern Spain tour We asked our staff the following question this week: What New Year's resolution would you make for one of your colleagues? Publisher: Jeanette Ratcliffe jeanette.ratcliffe@travelbulletin.co.uk

INTREPID TRAVEL has launched a new comfort-standard ‘Highlights of Southern Spain’ tour for this year. On the eight-day tour, passengers will explore cosmopolitan Madrid, take in the medieval architecture of Toledo, discover the natural beauty of the Sierra Nevada and the man-made beauty of the Alhambra Palace in Granada, visit Ronda’s famous gorge which appears to divide the city in two, and experience authentic flamenco in Seville. Prices start from £1,050 per person (excluding flights) and include breakfast accommodation, two dinners, activities, entrance fees and the services of a tour leader.

Nick - go to bed earlier, you’ll thank me once the baby’s born!

Editor: Lauretta Wright lauretta.wright@travelbulletin.co.uk

Alhambra Palace, Granada

Genaro: let Nicky win at Mario Kart - you know it makes sense!

Assistant Editor: Jill Sayles jill.sayles@travelbulletin.co.uk Nicky will start going to Capoeira classes again

Contributing Editor: Paul Scudamore post@travelbulletin.co.uk Jeanette - after Olympics year, to get the Bulletin team back into its serious sports arena (tenpin and pool)

Sales Director: Simon Eddolls simon.eddolls@travelbulletin.co.uk Bill - to celebrate his birthday with a big party this year

Advertisement Manager: Tim Podger tim.podger@travelbulletin.co.uk Simon - give up eating doughnuts!

Online Sales Manager: Nick Boocock nick.boocock@travelbulletin.co.uk Jim, please start answering these questions

Account Manager: Bill Coad bill.coad@travelbulletin.co.uk Chris - quit smoking

Sales Executive: Chris Gascoine chris.gascoine@travelbulletin.co.uk Jeanette, to learn the london tube network and roads

Sales Executive: Matt Gill matt.gill@travelbulletin.co.uk Simon - eat something other than SOUP!

Design: Genaro Santos genaro.santos@alaincharles.com Jeremy to eat less beans.

Assistant Layout Design: Nicky Valsamakis nicky.valsamakis@alaincharles.com Simon - Go to Byron already...

Production: Jeremy Walters production@travelbulletin.co.uk Nicky to eat more fruit & veg and less cheese & bacon

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

January 11 2013

Diamond Rail highlights range of itineraries for 2013 DIAMOND RAIL Holidays is highlighting several itineraries in Spain for this year including a new eight-day trip that incorporates four of Spain’s cities, and features a mix of culture, history and beautiful landscapes. The ‘Madrid, Seville and Cordoba’ itinerary leads in at £1,299 per person and offers the chance to travel by train from London St Pancras to Madrid via Paris and overnight ‘Trenhotel’ train. Guests spend two nights in Madrid, three nights in Seville (including a day excursion to Cordoba by train), and one night in Barcelona, returning to London by TGV and Eurostar via Paris. Included in the price is rail travel throughout; accommodation on half-board basis for seven nights in Madrid and Seville; breakfast accommodation in Barcelona; transfers, excursions and services of a dedicated tour manager. Departures are on April 9 and October 1. For details see www.sellingrailholidays.com or call 0844-544 7581.

puzzlesolutions Crossword: Across: 1. HOSEASONS, 6. TAP, 7. BLOIS, 8. JERSEY, 9. OMAN, 11. CENT, 12. ARROWS, 14. BAMBI, 15. ACE, 16. ANATOLIAN. Down: 1. HUGH JACKMAN, 2. AZORES, 3. OMSK, 4. STROMBOLI, 5. SPRINGSTEEN, 7. BERING SEA, 10. TROMSO, 13. ABTA.

Highlighted Word: SPAIN Travagrams: (top) Virginia

(bottom) Olympic Holidays

Where Am I?: Seville

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££400 400

Savings message of up to £400 is per couple. Offers end 28 February 2013. Terms & Conditions apply

More for 2013 Be part of JOD’s exclusive FAM trip to Sri Lanka in 2013. For details visit www.jod.uk.com/fam-trip