Travel Bulletin 11th May 2012 by Alain Charles Publishing

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May 11 2012 | ISSUE NO 1,778 | www.travelbulletin.co.uk

Middle East New developments & major sporting events help reignite interest

this week

agent bulletin Travel 2 is giving agents the chance to win an Ozzie adventure

puzzle bulletin play Su Doku and you could win a ÂŁ50 Hotel Chocolat voucher portugal & madeira

the latest operator savings, programme additions & flight launches

uk airports Regional airports: the benefits of flying local

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emiratesagents.com/uk

Hello

Vietnam

From the buzz of culture-filled cities to stunning landscapes, ancient myths and new adventures, experience it all. Fly Emirates daily to Ho Chi Minh City from 4th June.

Hello Tomorrow More than 120 destinations worldwide and over 500 international awards. Emirates flies from Heathrow, London Gatwick, Birmingham, Manchester, Newcastle and Glasgow via Dubai. To book or for further information, consult your GDS. To book holiday packages contact Emirates Tours UK on 020 7590 1450. Discover frequent flyer benefits at skywards.com

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BRIGHT ASSEMBLY...36 top independent travel agents from Berkshire and the surrounding region joined members of Bright (Bringing Real Information & Guaranteed High Quality Training) for a training workshop and dinner at Northcote House at the De Vere Sunningdale Park Hotel, near Ascot, recently. Pictured are, from the left: Roger Harris, 1st Class Holidays/Canadian Tourism; Marie Rayner, Travel Counsellors; Andrew Schweitzer, Viking River Cruises; Julie Welfare, Travel Counsellors; and Javier Blanco, Tenerife Tourism. For details or registrations for workshops see www.brightconsortia.com or email bookings@eventsfortravel.com

This Week news 3 a round-up of the latest industry developments & product launches

Cover Pictures: Main - Middle East Rotana

Inset - Portugal & Madeira

agent bulletin Travel 2 is giving agents the chance to win an Ozzie adventure

puzzle bulletin

notes from normanton

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portugal & madeira

middle east

uk airports

play Su Doku and you could win a £50 Hotel Chocolat voucher Sandy discovers that having a drink can sharpen the mind Transun launches new polar cruise product which senior sales executive believes they would make a good event organiser? the latest operator savings, programme additions & flight launches new developments & major sporting events help reignite interest the benefits of flying local

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Alpharooms.com research reveals Brits are culture vultures, not lager louts THE ‘BRITS abroad’ stereotype, once a byword for sunburnt lager louts, has been turned on its head by new research from alpharooms.com The poll of more than 10,000 UK adults found that the British holidaymaker is far more of a culture vulture than previously thought, with 84% of holidaymakers looking forward to exploring new sights and four out of ten (43%) choosing to turn to guide books and learn more about the local area, rather than getting a suntan. One in five (16%) respondents claimed that the opportunity to explore a foreign land is the most influential factor when booking a holiday, beating price and even the lure of the sun. The research suggests that the rise of all-inclusive holidays has not led to a lack of

adventure, with 94% of travellers stating that they like to leave the resort. Two in five holidaymakers (36%) spend their holiday seeing as much as possible, and a further 57% split their time between exploring the local area and staying in the resort. The research also reveals that Brits are a friendly bunch abroad, with 92% happy to make friends with local people, and a quarter of holiday makers (25%) even going out of their way to make friends with local people. Some 88% of the people polled are happy to have a go at the local lingo, with 31% swotting up on the key phrases before take-off and a further 56% taking the holiday as an opportunity to learn the language. The poll also found that the over 50s were the most open to new experiences,

with 86% claiming to embrace the holiday opportunity to discover new places, in comparison with 77% of 18-24 year olds. Men are also keener to check out the local sights, with 38% of men stating that they ‘want to see as much as possible’ in comparison to 35% of women. The company's managing director, Jamie Shuker, said: “These results will be a breath of fresh air for the much maligned British tourist abroad. It’s time for British tourists to be recognised as the considerate, cultural travellers that we are, as opposed to the ‘Brits abroad’ reputation we seem to have gathered. Our research shows that tourists want to learn about local culture, language and food and are a reflection of the true British holidaymaker."

May 11 2012

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newsbulletin Tweets of the Week Who’s saying what on Twitter... Monarch Airlines Early start, no lunch, late finish... we need something to #CHEERUP! Save up to £20 off return flights http://bit.ly/IJE8jh Door2Tour Live life on the ocean wave at #Door2Tour with our brilliant new range of tempting cruise holidays, check this out http://ow.ly/aEEXu you're off somewhere sunnier! Please let us know if we can help.

Survey reveals almost 40% of travellers forge relationships on flights A NEW survey of international travellers by Skyscanner has found that 39% of travellers have developed friendships with someone they met on a flight, with 6% admitting to a romantic liaison with a new acquaintance on board. The poll of more than 700 flyers found while the majority of these connections were short lived, 5% spent time on holiday together as a direct result of meeting on their flight. Taking their friendship even further, 7% said they continued to stay in touch after their holiday. Social media also appears to prolong longer-term relationships, with 3% staying in touch on the social network with someone they met on a flight. Dutch national carrier,

KLM, is looking to capitalise on this trend with a new Facebook app which allows passengers to enter their details and choose who to sit next to on their flight. Although 57% of people thought the service was ‘weird’ and would not be using it, one in five said they would use the app and an inquisitive 23% also said they would consider using the service. However, despite the new service being dubbed the ‘Mile High app’, the results of the survey reveal that the likelihood of friendship is far greater than that of romance, with only 6% admitting to a fling at 30,000 feet and just 2% having a lasting relationship.

Butlins WWE Raw returns to Butlins in 2012! See stars including John Cena, The Miz, CM Punk & Kelly Kelly at Minehead, 9-12 Nov http://ow.ly/aD6CA OurManOnTheGround Iceland are offering the world's first tour inside a Volcano this summer! Are you brave enough to enter?! http://ow.ly/aEsrq

CAVENDISH CALL...Jane Atkins and Graham Balmforth (left) from Superbreak visited the Cavendish Hotel London, one of the operator's top selling London hotels, to introduce general manager, Ciaran Fahy (right) to the operator's new 2012/13 programme. The new launch features 108 new hotels, 11 new attractions, a range of new concerts and event packages plus new UK flight inclusive options. Overall, prices for the new programme lead in at £30.50 per person, per night at the three-star Britannia Hotel in Birmingham on a bed-and-breakfast basis. For details see www.superbreak.com/agents or call 0871-221 4444.

AITO & AITO Agents announce keynote speaker for joint conference THE FIRST of many high-profile speakers for this year’s joint AITO and AITO Agents' overseas conference from June 14-17, has been announced. The conference, which will be held in Funchal and is sponsored by the Portuguese National Tourist Office and the Madeira Promotion Bureau, will welcome Deirdre Bounds as keynote speaker, a successful ethical entrepreneur, bestselling author and founder of i-to-i.com. Deidre started up a business from her bedsit and turned it into the world’s biggest gap-year travel company within ten years. Other speakers at this year’s conference will cover topics such as the state of the economy, ATOL reform, Flight Plus, how to successfully market your company online and ‘change management’ principles. For more information visit www.aito.com and www.aitoagents.com

May 11 2012

Mailbox Mailings with Travel Bulletin this week include: ● Funway Holidays - competition - 3 ways to enter:

1) Visit www.travelbulletin.co.uk to enter the competition, 2) visit www.specialisthk.com or 3) make a Hong Kong booking by June 15th, for further details call 0844 557 3131 ● Expedia's Travel Agents Affiliate Programme newsletter, with details on the latest events to sign up for, plus a chance to win a lunchtime pizza for your office, see the flyer for full details. For further details on the TAAP details www.expedia.co.uk/travelagents For further details and special offers please read the mail shots that accompany this issue

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newsbulletin Explore launches ‘Limited Collection’ to appeal to pioneering customers EXPLORE HAS launched a new range of unique, one-off tours with an emphasis on exploring little-visited destinations, undiscovered festivals and special events in small groups. Called ‘Limited Collection’, three trips will launch the new sub-brand, with further trips being released every three months. The first tours each offer an opportunity to discover rarely visited parts of the world. As an example, a 16-day Congo and CAR: A Pioneering Expedition departs on January 23, 2013 with a maximum group size of eight people, and travels from Brazzaville, through the Congo basin, to Bangui in the Central Africa Republic. Much of the trip’s appeal is the journey itself, as it makes its way by road, dugout canoe and on foot through the World’s second largest rainforest to an area little visited by anyone except scientists. In search of the endangered lowland gorilla, three gorilla treks are also included and there is also the opportunity to meet indigenous Pygmy communities. Prices lead in at £8,375 per person, including flights from Heathrow, accommodation (five nights’ forest camps, six nights’ lodges, two nights’ hotels), all meals, a tour leader, local and forest guides and all transport. The other two trips include a 14-day Tribes and Festivals of Southern China with Richard Beal, which departs on February 16 and costs from £2,096, and a 12-day Falklanders’ Welcome which departs on October 25 and costs from £4,591. For more information, visit www.explore.co.uk or call 0844-499 0901.

Discounts of up to £330 from P&V PIERRE & Vacances has launched a May sale to offer discounts of up to £330 at its holiday villages until the end of this month, including bookings for the Jubilee half-term and peak summer holiday period. The operator is also giving guests the opportunity of paying in euros, as the euro is at an 18-month low of 1.22 versus the pound. For details visit www.pierreetvacances.co.uk or call 0870-026 7144. THE DANUBE Express is offering savings of up to £410 per person on its three-day Balkan Voyager tour, which travels from Istanbul to Budapest via Bulgaria and Serbia. Prices lead in at £990 per person with the discount, based on two sharing a Deluxe en-suite compartment, including two nights’ on the Danube Express with all meals, complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks, scheduled sightseeing and the services of a train manager. The tour departs on June 3 and flights are extra. For details call 01462-441400 or see www.danube-express.com

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Funway issues 'California Dreaming' campaign FUNWAY HOLIDAYS has launched its ‘California Dreaming’ campaign for this month and next, with the aim of boosting sales to the destination during the traditional shoulder season. The company's USA product manager, Casey Hurford, said: “We remain committed to providing the best possible value and choice for our customers and it is hoped the campaign will also highlight our continued value for money - from free breakfasts and free nights to guaranteed room upgrades and special rate reductions.” The operator has put together a selection of new packages showcasing both old favorites and new attractions in the destination, including Blue Whale Watching tours, where guests can see the whales migrate into Orange County waters during summer. A five-night stay deal at Hyatt Regency Newport Beach includes one night free and flights with BA and leads in at £749 per person, based on a May 24 departure. Another special offer applies to guests visiting Universal Studios Hollywood, where the new attraction, Transformers: The Ride 3D, opens on May 25. Visitors can stay for five nights at Beverly Garland’s Holiday Inn Universal Studios from £819 per person, including flights with United Airlines, based on a June 14 departure. Meanwhile, SeaWorld San Diego opens its new roller coaster ‘Manta’ on May 26 and the company is offering seven nights at Bahia Resort Hotel including a Southern California two-park Flex Ticket (to access to Universal and Seaworld) and flights with United Airlines. Prices lead in at £899 per person, based on a June 14 departure, which includes a special rate reduction. For more information or to book visit www.funway4agents.co.uk or call 0844-557 0626.

May 11 2012

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newsbulletin New festive tour from Grand UK Holidays

Newsbites ●

GRAND UK Holidays has unveiled a new Christmas markets tour in advance of its 2012/13 festive/winter brochure, due out this month. The operator reports that it has seen its upmarket ‘Gold’ coach tours sell well since they were unveiled last autumn, and now the newest addition to the ‘Gold’ programme has been released: Berlin & the Harz Mountains Christmas Markets. The seven-day escorted tour visits the Christmas markets in Berlin and Wernigerode and departs on November 25, with prices leading in at £439 per person. For more information or to book call 01603-619933 or see www.grandukholidays.com

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THE YOUTRAVEL.COM Group has announced that it has secured new funding from existing Abu Dhabi shareholders. THE EUROPEAN Regions Airline Association (ERA) has welcomed Channel Islands-based carrier, Blue Islands, as a new member. ON TUESDAY May 15 there is a free half-day seminar in Manchester entitled "Flight Plus ..... one month on". Lawyers David Grant and Stephen Mason will explore what you need to know about Flight Plus and how agents and operators could fall foul of the new regulations. The event is the latest in a series provided free for the industry by Vantage Insurance. To book a place see www.vantageua.co.uk/seminars MALLORCA FARMHOUSES now provides guests with a cook’s guide to Mallorca. The recipes appear in an information pack, placed in each property, and also provide information on Mallorca’s local markets, when they take place and at which village.

15-day Classic India option from TransIndus from £2,295 TRANSINDUS HAS introduced a new 15-day Classic India escorted trip, which is designed for first time visitors and discovers India’s Golden Triangle and Varanasi, as well as the highlights of Rajasthan. Guests begin with two nights in Delhi to discover the main sights of the city. The next stop is Varanasi, one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world and, for Hindus, one of the holiest places in India. Here guests visit Sarnath, the site of Buddha's first public discourse and now home to many stupas and monasteries. Other highlights include a boat ride on the Ganges to see devotees at prayer and a visit to the temple complex at Khajuraho, before visiting Agra to take in the Taj Mahal and the Red Fort. In Jaipur, guests can take an elephant ride to the hilltop fort of Amber, and in Jodhpur they will visit the Meherangahr Fort. The final destination is Udaipur, where a city tour is included. Prices start from £2,295 per person, including 13 nights’ breakfast accommodation, flights, all internal travel and scheduled sightseeing. For bookings made before May 31, customers will receive a gift box of Indian spices. For more information or to book see www.transindus.co.uk or call 020-8566 3739.

AW promotes glacial lagoon experience ATTRACTION WORLD is highlighting its tour to the South Coast and Jökulsárlón Glacial Lagoon to agents with clients considering Rekyavik as a holiday destination. Passing charming villages as well as Skaftafell National Park, participants will visit Seljalandsfoss waterfall and Skógafoss waterfall. The tour also passes Iceland’s biggest volcano, Öræfajökull glacier. On arrival at the lagoon, guests have some time to view the scenery before taking a boat tour. Prices lead in at £165 per person for adults and £83 for children aged three-11 years. For more information call 0871-700 8888.

CYPRUS Cyplon Supreme Agents Club

Specialist in Tailor-Making Holidays matched by product knowledge & 40 years experience

email sales on how to join and what the beneﬁts are

Price Matching Will be Considered Book on line www.cyplon.co.uk or Email: sales@cyplon.co.uk To request brochure or booking call us on 020

8340 7612 May 11 2012

Fleewinter offers whales & wine itinerary in South Africa from £1,299 FLEEWINTER HAS created an itinerary to discover the Cape of South Africa this month, which combines a city stay by the beach in Cape Town with whalewatching in Plettenberg Bay on the Garden Route, and a visit to the Winelands. The holiday commences with six nights at Oceane in Camps Bay. The twobedroomed apartment offers ocean, mountain and coastal views and is within walking distance of the beach front, which is lined with bars and restaurants including ‘Blues’, which Camps Bay is well known for. Following an exploration of Cape Town the next stop is Plettenberg Bay, which is renowned for its coastline, beaches and dolphin and Southern Right whale sightings. Accommodation

is at the three-bedroom De Meermin, an apartment with a large ocean facing terrace and views of the bay. The stay includes a whale boat excursion on a licensed whale boat which is permitted to approach within 50m. The itinerary ends with two nights in the Winelands staying at the four-star La Fontaine hotel in Franschhoek, a short walk from the town centre. Prices lead in at £1,299 per person, based on four sharing and include flights, car hire, six nights’ selfcatering in Cape Town, four nights’ self-catering at Plettenberg Bay and two nights’ breakfast accommodation at La Fontaine in Franschhoek. For more information or to book call 020-7112 0019 or visit www.fleewinter.com

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newsbulletin h c t a W Ones to mmes el progra v a tr p to the A pick of ant to miss... w 't n o d you

Inside Luxury Travel: Quebec on Monday 14th May at 19:00 on The Travel Channel Presenter Varun Sharma's home for the next few days is the Auberge Saint-Antoine hotel, built on a historical site in the Old Part of Quebec City and housing many artefacts dating back to the 17th Century. Varun pays a visit to the Museum of Civilisation, sets up shop at La Pinsonnier and explores the small town of Baie St Paul, known as the birthplace of Cirque du Soleil.

Discover Egypt launches 'Long Cruise’ from Cairo, Luxor and Aswan DISCOVER EGYPT is launching a new ‘long cruise’ that takes passengers on a 14-night journey from Cairo to Luxor and on to Aswan and “Nubia”, as well as to access Abu Simbel. Highlights of the trip include driving to the Ancient Kingdom of Memphis on the edge of the Western Desert; visiting the Pyramids of Giza, including Cheop’s Pyramid, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World; visiting the Tombs of Beni Hasan; and crossing the West Bank of the Nile to visit the Necropolis of Ancient Thebes, Valley of the Kings and Valley of the Queens, including Temple of Queen Hatshepsut. Sailings will commence later this summer with prices leading in at £2,197 per person including scheduled flights from Heathrow, transfers, full board cruise and all excursions. For details call 0844-880 0461 or visit www.discoveregypt.co.uk

Caribbean Airlines launches direct Barbados flights from July 1 CARIBBEAN AIRLINES has announced that it is launching a direct service between Barbados and Gatwick on June 30, with the first flight to Barbados departing on July 1. The twice-weekly service, operated by the airline’s latest Boeing 767-300 ER fleet, departs Barbados on Tuesdays and Saturdays with its corresponding return nonstop service departing London on Wednesdays and Sundays. With the introduction of these services, the carrier will now offer direct services to London six days a week. For more information or to book call 0870774 7336 or email cto.uk@caribbeanairlines.com

Invites you to attend a

Greece & Cyprus Showcase Agent Networking Evening

Tuesday 29th May 2012 Elysée Restaurant, London W1 Travel Bulletin is delighted to invite you to this informative, fun event involving a combination of networking, presentations, exciting entertainment, delicious food and wine and a free prize draw with a number of fabulous prizes to be won! To confirm your place at this amazing event, email the names and job titles of up to 4 staff members to jeanette@travelbulletin.co.uk or telephone 020 7834 6661 for more information.

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May 11 2012

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newsbulletin Bellleair Holidays issues second edition summer brochure BELLEAIR HOLIDAYS has issued the second edition of its summer 2012 brochure, which features new properties, new flight routes, revised prices and new cruise packages, as well as the addition of Sicily back into the portfolio (on Viewdata and online only). The operator has added the new Club Salina Wharf apartments in Qawra to its portfolio as well as the fourstar Riviera Resort & Spa in Malta, which is offered on an all-inclusive basis. Sicily has been reinstated into the portfolio, with ten properties located in Taormina and Giardini Naxos (ranging from three- to five-star) and flights from Gatwick with both BA and easyJet as well as from East Midlands with bmibaby. The Sicily product is exclusively available to

Shearings reveals best-selling itineraries SHEARINGS REPORTS that its best selling itineraries for this year include the nine-day Spanish House Party from £354 where customers gain a real insight into Spanish life. The holiday, which offers departures this month, spends six nights at the Hotel Monteplaya, Malgrat on full board, located near the Old Town and opposite the beach, where complimentary wine is served with lunch and dinner. Three sightseeing excursions are included in the price, with a visit to Barcelona, a leisurely drive along the Costa Brava and a trip to a local market. Also included is overnight coach travel. Another popular option is a nine-day all-inclusive Spain’s Golden Coast from £359. Guests can explore the Costa Dorada where highlights include visits to Barcelona, the medieval town walls of Montblanc and historic Tarragona. The price includes six nights' all-inclusive accommodation, three excursions and overnight coach travel. The holiday is also available as a 16-day option, from £669 and departures are available from October to November.

travel agents online and through Viewdata - see www.belleair.co.uk/sicily Meanwhile, this month sees the launch of a new weekly charter flight with Air Malta from Birmingham. This is in addition to the twice-weekly flights from East Midlands (with bmibaby) and the existing route from Birmingham with Thomas Cook. Also new for this year is a new cruise holiday on Costa Magica from £609 per person, cruise-only, based on two people sharing. The eight-day cruise begins in Valletta, before setting sail for Catania in Sicily, Naples, Savona, Barcelona and Palma before returning to Malta. For details see www.belleair.co.uk/agents or call 0845-365 3412.

Free Disney ticket with P&O Ferries’ Dover-Calais crossing P&O FERRIES is offering customers a free Disney ticket when they book a DoverCalais crossing for a car and passengers. A free one-day adult Disney Hopper ticket, worth £62, is available with every booking for a Dover-Calais car crossing this summer. The offer applies to all car bookings made before June 30 and is valid for travel and park entry until November 7. The free ticket provides unlimited access to the Disneyland Resort Park and Walt Disney Studios Park for one day. Dover-Calais crossings for a car and passengers start from £35 each way for any length of stay. The offer also applies to day trip bookings for travel in a car, with prices from £25 return. To book or for more information call 0871-664 6464 or visit www.poferries.com

New Croatia & Greece routes from Monarch MONARCH HAS launched new routes to Dubrovnik in Croatia and Heraklion in Crete. The flights operate from both Birmingham and Gatwick airports, with fares, including taxes, starting from £29 one-way and £72 return. Flights to Dubrovnik operate three times weekly from Gatwick and twice weekly from Birmingham and flights to Heraklion operate twice weekly from both airports. The new routes are a continuation of the airline's expansion strategy revealed last year to focus on its scheduled services and expand its network to new leisure destinations across Europe. For more information visit www.monarch.co.uk

May 11 2012

New products & services from Neilson NEILSON HOLIDAYS summer season has opened for its Beachclub and Sailing Holidays and the operator has added a range of new products and services. New developments have been introduced across the company's nine Beachclub resorts in Greece and Turkey, and as part of various projects to improve and develop its Beachclub portfolio, the operator has introduced the newly refurbished Seaside Beachclub in Ortakent, Turkey which underwent a €500,000 makeover in time for summer. Neilson Adakoy Beachclub in Turkey was also recently expanded with 36 new rooms and upgrades to public areas. On the watersports front, the company has introduced new yachts in the Lycian and Ionian sailing regions, where guests can take part in a Stay and Sail or Flotilla Holiday. Meanwhile, designed for aspiring skippers with some yachting experience together with basic navigation and sailing skills, the operator has introduced a ‘Day Skipper’ course, where guests can take charge of a yacht with an instructor close by. After the five-day course successful students should expect to be able to safely skipper a small yacht in familiar waters during the day. The operator has also upgraded its cycling facilities with new TREK 6300 mountain bikes at its Cosmos Beachclub in Vassiliki, Greece. Road bikes have also been introduced as a new concept at the Retreat Beachclub in Sivota, Greece. Other activity additions include stand up paddle boarding, Zumba fitness classes and swim coaching which are all now available across all nine Beachclubs in Turkey and Greece. For more information or to book call 0845-070 3460 or visit www.neilson.co.uk

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agentbulletin Booking incentives FAIRMONT IS offering members of its Famous Agents education and recognition programme the chance to earn up to £13 cashback per night at selected hotels in Northern California. Between now and August 31, agents will earn the bonus when they book a minimum of ten combined nights’ Mission Suite bookings at The Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa, Tower Suite bookings at The Fairmont San Francisco and all bookings at Fairmont Heritage Place, Ghirardelli Square. To be eligible for the cashback incentive, members must complete the form at bit.ly/fmsagnts for each 'suite' client booking, and submit it via email to suitebookings@fairmont.com. Members will receive the cashback payments in the form of a cheque in October. Agents can join the programme by enrolling at frhi.com/famousagents and review a short lesson module and answer corresponding multiple-choice questions.

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IN ASSOCIATION with Tourism Australia and Cathay Pacific, Travel 2 is giving agents the chance to win an Ozzie adventure. To qualify, agents must make a new holiday booking to Australia which includes Cathay Pacific flights between now and May 31. To complete the entry, agents must also send evidence to marketing@travel2.com showing how they have promoted Australia to their customers through their Website, window posters or through any other method they find will grab their customer’s attention. For details visit www.travel2.com

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JOURNEYS OF Distinction has launched a new incentive ‘Are you being served?’ that gives agents the opportunity to win a luxury wine fridge and have it filled with a selection of drinks of their choice. The operator's managing director, Karen Gee, and agency sales manager, Sue Copper, will travel the length of the country to personally deliver winning agencies with their prize and serve them the drinks of choice. The incentive is valid for any bookings made by June 30 and one booking will be randomly selected every fortnight throughout the qualifying period so there are several opportunities to win. For details see www.jod.uk.com/travelagents

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AGENTS BOOKING any Walt Disney World Florida theme park ticket this month are being offered a £5 Love2Shop voucher per ticket sold from DoSomethingDifferent.com. The offer is valid on all five-, seven-, 14- and 21-day Disney Premium and Ultimate tickets including the Disney & Universal Combo, the Orlando Freedom and Freedom Plus tickets. To claim email agencysales@dosomethingdifferent.com by June 15.

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VILLA SELECT is offering agents a £50 Love2Shop voucher when they make a booking that departs either this month or in October at selected properties. For details call 01789-764909.

Agent offer ALPEN CLUB is offering agents the chance to stay in a 'Bavarian Hidden Gem' for two nights (across Sunday and Monday) for £229. The offer includes breakfast and one dinner, a 30-minute spa treatment and a ride on the local cable car. The offer can be booked up to June 30 for stays until December 17 and prices are based on two sharing. Alternatively, agents making four bookings with the company by May 31 will win the weekend for themselves and a partner. The company has also announced that it has increased agent commission to 20%. For details email samantha.steward@alpenclub.de or visit www.alpenclub.de

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GOOD TO GO...Go Travel were the winners of DoSomethingDifferent.com's Easter incentive and won a chocolate fountain for a day to have in their Chislehurst shop in Kent. Pictured enjoying the fountain are, from the left: Annabel Cove, DoSomethingDifferent.com with Go Travel's Sue Johnson , Linda Parsons and Sally Camies. May 11 2012

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newsbulletin Leger Holidays promotes three- to nine-day Jubilee breaks departing on June 1 & 2 LEGER HOLIDAYS has a range of holidays available which depart on June 1 and 2, from four-day mini breaks across the long weekend to nine days of relaxation and sightseeing; all of which require three days from a holiday allowance. As examples, a four-day Monet’s Garden, Paris & the Splendours of France’s

Chateaux & Gardens departs on June 1 and costs from £275. Highlights include a full day in Paris to take in the sights, a visit to the Château and Gardens of Versailles, a visit to Giverny and the home and gardens of Claude Monet. The price includes three nights’ breakfast accommodation, travel by

executive coach with free local joining points and excursions to Paris, Versailles and Monet’s Garden. Optional sightseeing tours of Paris by day and night are also available. A four-day trip to Disneyland Paris costs from £1,176 for a family of four and departs on June 1. The price includes three

nights’ breakfast accommodation at the four-star Magic Circus Hotel, travel by executive coach with free local joining points and a twoday ‘Hopper’ ticket which allows visitors to move from park to park. For more information or to book visit www.legerbreaks.info or call 0844-504 6250.

Inghams launches Lakes & Mountains 2013 preview brochure INGHAMS HAS launched a new summer 2013 programme offering low prices, with Lakes & Mountains holidays starting from £365 per person. The programme includes added value benefits of up to £600 per couple including early booking discounts, cash backs with savings of £50 per couple and Inghams Plus offers, including free guided walks, free bike hire, free entrance to local attractions, free use of lifts and public transport, free packed lunches and free afternoon tea and cake. All brochure prices for holidays to Europe have also been frozen at 2012 prices. The operator features a choice of seven chalet and chalet hotels in

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May 11 2012

locations across Austria, Switzerland, Italy and France. The ‘Half Board Plus’ accommodation includes daily buffet breakfast, packed lunches, afternoon tea and coffee and four- or five-course evening meals. Many chalet and chalet hotels featured in the preview brochure have also been lowered in price from this year. As an example of prices, a sevennight ‘Half Board Plus’ stay at the three Chalet St Lukas, Mayrhofen in Austria, departing on May 18 and 22 leads in at £365 per person, including flights, transfers, breakfast, free packed lunch, free afternoon tea/cake, a four-course evening meal, predinner aperitif and a choice of complimentary wines.

NYC & Com pany has an nounced a partnership with NYC star t-up firm, CityMaps, by launching a free, cobranded sm artphone ap p available for downloa d on iTunes. NYC Map is a compreh ensive digita l tool that allows user s to navigate New York City using ea sy-to-recogn ise names and visual POIs (logos) and to customis e their expe rience with filtered cont ent from ne ar ly 90,000 hotels, restau rants, bars, shops and attraction s. The use of brand logos on the map allows users to easily view th e businesses in their immediate ar eas, from ba nks and tourist landm arks to their favourite clothing stor es. For detai ls see www.nycgo. com/citymap s

ched a ND has laun VISITENGLA official s it of n versio new Android ee fr version nd app. The Enjoy Engla eas for than 1,000 id e or m es id prov s to visit and attraction new destinations fers untry and of across the co ilt QR bu in an h it w functionality, s to scan er lowing us al er ad re e Cod formatio. and access in 2D barcodes ise their so personal Users can al or or rding to indo search acco t-see’ us vities or ‘m outdoor acti icking to st e os , while th things to do by free be inspired a budget can complete result comes ideas. Each . For on ti e Map loca with a Googl details see /Officialngland.com www.enjoye nd-app Enjoy-Engla

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puzzlebulletin Travagrams

Su Doku Win a £50 Hotel Chocolat voucher in the travelbulletin Su Doku prize puzzle Number: 064

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

A Cab Shielded Sirens Ruin

A➠

B➠ This cruise line shares its name with a small black breed of sheep from Scotland

C➠

Am I Mi

D➠ Fill in all the squares in the grid so that each row, column and each of the 3 x 3 squares contains the digits 1-9. Once you have completed the puzzle, simply identify the numbers that relate to the letters, A, B, C and D then e-mail the solution, with your name, company name, and full postal address plus phone and ABTA number if applicable to: competition@travelbulletin.co.uk Closing date for entries is Thursday, May 17th. Solution and new puzzle will appear next week. The winner for 27th April is Stephanie Barwick, Thomas Cook in Derbyshire. April 27 Solution: A=9 B=3 C=2 D=1

Crossword

Will Smith wrote a song about this city

Where Am I?

Irish city famous for its crystal

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

Number: 064

Across 1. European carrier operating from Findel airport (6) 4. Sicilian mount (4) 8. Tour operator specialising in Turkey and North Cyprus, ___ Sky (9) 9. Manchester Ringway airport code (3) 10. Country setting for The No.1 Ladies' Detective Agency (8) 14. Capital city near to where the Blue and White Niles merge (8) 17. Tampa airport code (3) 18. Historic Moroccan city (9) 19. French city and UNESCO World Heritage site (4) 20. Well known TV and radio presenter, ___ Hunniford (6)

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Down 1. Comedian, star of Not Going Out, Would I Lie to You? (3,4) 2. Popular tourist destination in China (4) 3. Rocky Mountain state (5) 5. Taipei is the capital (6) 6. Avignon airport code (3) 7. Chat show host, Jonathan (4) 11. Tresco, Scilly Isles airport code (3) 12. P&O ship, exclusively for adults (7) 13. Capital of Croatia (6) 15. Amphibious Wind in the Willows character (4) 16. Hotel reservation services company (5) 17. Norse god of thunder (4) 18. National carrier of Lebanon (3)

For the solution to the Crossword, Where Am I? and Travagrams, please see page 30 May 11 2012

S03 TB1105 News 2_Layout 1 09/05/2012 11:51 Page 12

newsbulletin Trip Feast keen to work with agents

Notes from . . . n o t n a m r o N IRST OF all apologies to Alan Meadows who is Business Development Manager for Longwood, Preston AND Amathus Holidays - and who did I miss off when I mentioned who you could book the lovely Asimina Suites Hotel which I had visited the other week? Yes, Amathus Holidays - so sorry Alan and as Brucie would say ‘you’re my favourite!’ Had a few visitors this week which is always nice – Richard Hey from Bedsonline called in to remind us that they now do villas abroad and they also do airport hotels with parking now. Tracey from Balkan Holidays was next, letting us know that they are doing the £70 deposit for 2013 and they go on sale Fri and by now you should have had their new brochures – can’t wait to see them. Read in the Daily Mail how an alcoholic drink or two can sharpen up your mind! According to a survey done, men (what’s wrong with us women?) who enjoy a relaxing drink are better at solving brain teasers than those who are sober. Not only did the thirstier chaps get more questions right, they were also quicker in delivering the correct responses. The amount of alcohol found to spark creative thought was around 4 units – 2 pints of beer or two med glasses of wine - make mine a double please! Luella is excited - she is off on the Beachcomber Academy fam trip to Mauritius that she won at last year’s Yorks Abta Ball and she finally goes on Sat. No doubt she will come back full of good things to say - I can see a Mauritius window display being done when she gets back! Joanne can’t wait for her family holiday to Barbados in a couple of weeks after originally booking for the Almond Beach Village - and then of course it closed so now she is in the Almond Casuarina Beach and Turtle Beach Resort - fingers crossed all goes well!‘People can be divided into three groups – those who make things happen, those who watch things happen and those who wonder what happened’ and ‘Fight with your strength, not with others weakness ...as success lies in your effort, not in others defeat’.

by SANDRA MURRAY of Sandy Travel in Normanton, Yorkshire

To respond to any of Sandy’s comments email jill. sayles@travelbulletin.co.uk

May 11 2012

TRIP FEAST is now working with TTA and Worldchoice and says that it is open to partnerships with other agents, offering up to 10% commission on its tours. The operator offers a range of cultural tours with a culinary twist to 11 destinations including India, Thailand, China, Lebanon, Ireland, Mexico, Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, Morocco and Serbia. For more information visit www.tripfeast.com, email info@tripfeast.com or call 020-7183 5153.

Fetchmyluggage.co.uk launches baggage courier site to the trade FETCHMYLUGGAGE.CO.UK, which offers a home to hotel baggage courier service with a full tracking facility, is now offering commissionable rates to travel agents. The company claims that costs for the service are substantially cheaper than airline excess baggage charges. The company's founder, Colin Gilmour, said: "It’s fantastic news for the travel agent as they can now offer this additional service directly to their clients at the touch of a button. Our service eliminates the risk of being caught out by the ever increasing luggage charges levied by all airlines. In today’s climate where most people are feeling the pinch, our service can greatly alleviate some of the costs associated with airline travel. "The service suits all markets – families, the elderly, skiers, golfers, the disabled and brides to be. There is no better feeling than walking into an airport and going straight to passport control without being subjected to large check-in queues. Waiting around at the baggage carousel in arrivals may soon be a thing of the past." The service covers 270 countries worldwide and prices lead in at £29.98 for short-haul European flights. To create a login visit www.fetchmyluggage.co.uk and click on agent login or email sales@fetchmyluggage.co.uk

FUN BUS... pictured is His Excellency Ambassador Enrique A. Manalo of the Philippine Embassy, the Philippine Department of Tourism London (PDOT), along with travel trade representatives marking the soft launch of the tourist board's latest brand campaign “It’s More Fun in the Philippines”, with outdoor adverts on London buses, taxis and the London Underground.

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WIN A FAM TRIP TO HONG KONG

G ia n t B u ddha Sh o pp in g

Di m Su m Dr agon Boat Car nival

If you would like to be in with a chance of winning a place on this year’s FAM trip to Hong Kong, look no further! With 3 options of entry available and giving you 3 chances to win, you could be one of 9 lucky agents jetting off on a 4-day trip in no time! 1. APPLY TO ENTER OUR CHOPSTICKS CHALLENGE! Visit www.travelbulletin.co.uk to complete 3 simple questions. 30 lucky agents will then be invited to our Chopsticks Challenge event to compete and be in with a chance of winning a place! When & Where: 28th June 2012, Central London 2. BECOME A HONG KONG SPECIALIST! Or, just visit www.specialisthk.com to become a Hong Kong specialist today, and be in with the chance of being selected at random!

WHAT TO DO IN HONG KONG 1) E njoy the panoramic views of Hong Kong from The Peak 2) Take the Star Ferry between Hong Kong Island and Kowloon from 20p 3) Admire the world’s tallest seated outdoor bronzed Buddha and visit the nearby Po Lin Monastery 4) Join the locals and enjoy dim sum for lunch or tr y one of the Hong Kong style cafes “Cha Chaan Teng” for some ver y affordable dishes 5) Test your bargaining skills in one of the delightful street markets – Ladies Market, Temple Street Night Market, Stanley Market 6) Take a stroll along the harbour and watch A Symphony of Lights at 8pm (ever y night)

3. MAKE A HONG KONG BOOKING WITH FUNWAY!

7) H op on a Ding Ding Tram for 20p a journey and leisurely sightsee Hong Kong Island

Or, make a Hong Kong booking with us by 15th June 2012 for your name to be pulled out of the Funway hat – it couldn’t be simpler!

8) E xperience a slower pace of life on one of the many outlying islands of Hong Kong such as Lantau Island, Cheung Chau Island, Lamma Island, Peng Chau

With so many ways to enter, now is your chance to experience Hong Kong for yourself and be one of those lucky agents! Entry closes: 15th June 2012.

9) Take a visit to one of the many temples in Hong Kong – Wong Tai Sin Temple is popular

For more details visit www.funway4agents.co.uk or call our experienced travel professionals on 0844 557 3131

10) Travel on the world’s longest covered escalator – Mid-Levels Escalator – and stop off in SoHo or Lan Kwai Fong to experience the nightlife

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cruisebulletin

COMEDY WILL be served with brunch on the latest Carnival cruises, following the launch of a new free dining option. The Punchliner Comedy Brunch debuts on the Carnival Miracle, which offers eight-day voyages through the Caribbean from New York. Comedians chosen by American comic and the line's ‘curator of comedy’, George Lopez, will entertain guests as they enjoy mid-morning meals. The Comedy Brunch takes place on sea days in the main dining room and the company says it is likely the new dining option will be introduced across all of the line's cruises. Prices for a November 5 fly/cruise lead in at £1,039 per person, based on two sharing for ten nights. For details call 0845-351 0556.

Crystal Cruises' early 2014 itineraries now open for booking CRYSTAL CRUISES has announced that its 2014 preview itineraries are now open for booking. A total of 17 voyages visiting 74 ports in 34 countries are available for January to April 2014 sailings on Crystal Serenity and January through to May on Crystal Symphony. “Book Now” fares offer savings of up to £1,200 per couple until June 30. Destinations that are less-cruised and less-easily-accessible such as Ghana, Mauritius, Brunei, Burma, the Cook Islands, Tonga, Sao Tome, Senegal, Namibia and Angola are featured alongside favourites such as the Cayman Islands, Panama Canal, Thailand and Hawaii. The company will make maiden calls in Luanda, Angola; Lombok, Indonesia; and Malacca, Malaysia and is also returning to several destinations not visited

in years, such as the Andaman Islands, India; Okinawa and Tokyo, Japan; the UK’s Pitcairn Islands; and Jakarta, Surabay and Ujung Pandang in Indonesia. All voyages but one offer overnights in local ports-of-call, including “double overnights” in Yangon (Myanmar/Burma), Yokohama, Ho Chi Minh City, Cape Town, Hong Kong, Singapore and Shanghai. Winter/spring voyages range from 12 to 26 nights, in addition to a five-segment, 89-night world cruise. Fares lead in at £2,047 per person cruise-only, based on a 12-night 'Southern Seas Soliloquy' from Valparaiso to Papeete departing on January 8, when booked by June 30. For more information call 020-7287 9040 or visit www.crystalcruises.co.uk

Transun celebrates 30 years with new polar cruise product TO CELEBRATE 30 years, Transun is offering a new Polar Cruising product featuring a range of destinations and itineraries, and is offering a special incentive to agents. Book a polar cruise for two or more people before May 31 and agents can take a free day trip to search for Santa in Lapland for one adult and one child. The choice of departures

is dependent upon availability. To redeem, quote ‘Travel Bulletin incentive’ at the time of booking. Prices for the new Arctic cruises, which run through to September (with the Antarctic being featured from the end of October through to March), lead in at £3,145 per person for a seven-night Greenland cruise. The price includes

flights, overnight accommodation in Reykjavik both en-route to Greenland and on the way back. Antarctic cruises start from £5,995 per person including flights, accommodation in Ushuaia and a nine-night Antarctic Peninsula cruise. For more information call 01865-265200.

Hebridean Island Cruises celebrates 25 seasons by replicating original cruises HEBRIDEAN ISLAND Cruises is celebrating the 25th season of its luxury small cruise ship, Hebridean Princess, by offering guests the chance to sail on one of the original itineraries in 2013 and save up to 25% off the cost of their cruise. The ship's three original sailings being replicated include; ‘The Islands of the Inner Hebrides’, ‘St Kilda, the Inner and Outer Hebrides and the Small Islands’ and ‘The Islands of the Inner and Outer Hebrides’ – a replica of the first Princess cruise which set sail in May 1989. The company is also offering a 10% early booking discount on all 2013 bookings made before June 15, as well as an additional 5% loyalty discount for previous guests. Guests booking two 2013 cruises at the same time will also receive

May 11 2012

25% off their second sailing, when booked by June 15. New for 2013 are four new Footloose walking itineraries, providing walkers the opportunity to explore untamed landscapes, as well as partnership cruises with the NADFAS, the National Trust and the Royal Horticultural Society. As an example of prices, ‘An Irish Adventure’ departs from Oban on April 16, 2013 and calls at Bangor, Rathlin Island and Londonderry as well as Hebridean Princess’ first ever call at Belfast. Prices start from £3,110 per person including free car parking and travel insurance, subject to terms and conditions. For more information or to book visit www.hebridean.co.uk or call 01756-704704.

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personalitybulletin

Nisha Tailor The senior sales executive at Jetset Flights, aka ‘Naughty Nisha’, has the gift of the gab and loves to cook

Who is your ideal travelling companion? Hema my best friend, because we just have such a great time together and she always makes me laugh.

“I like the fact that every day is different, meeting different people who run different agencies…

What's your earliest childhood memory? When I was in Zimbabwe, I was about five years old and we went to a lion park. I was able to feed a very small cub but when it was time to give back the cub I wouldn’t and told my mum that I wanted to take it home. Where was your last work-related trip? Orlando & St Petersburg – it was a great group of ten agents. We flew Premium Economy & stayed at the Lowes Hotel in St Petersburg where they even put on a great cocktail party for us. After that some of the group still wanted to enjoy the evening & ended up hitchhiking a ride with the local sheriff!

Career path ●

Sept 2006–present: Senior sales executive at Jetset Flights

●

Feb 2000–Sept 2006: Various positions at Travel 2 including reservations and air product consultant

If you were a celebrity who would you choose to be and why? Meryl Streep so I could win an oscar and mix with the stars.

If you could change three things in the industry, what would they be? Discounting, fuel surcharges and the pay.

What three words would your friends use to describe you? Bubbly – because I’m just good fun, enthusiastic – because I love life and caring – because I am there for my friends and family.

Who has been the biggest inspiration/influence in your career? My parents. They have supported me throughout all my ups and downs and inspired me to pursue my dreams.

What have your travels taught you? Embrace the world and different cultures.

What's your favourite city and why? Las Vegas baby!

What is the best advice you recall? Never borrow, never lend if you want to keep a friend. If you could have a room full of any one thing, what would it be? Money of course! If anyone else says anything different they would be lying.

May 11 2012

What is your favourite mode of travel? Aeroplane. Promoting Jetset Flights, I kind of have to say flights. If you had a super power what would it be and why? I would love to fly so I can just be wherever I wanted, free as a bird. What was your nickname at school and why? Naughty Nisha – that would be telling… How do you deal with stress? I used to go out and party but now I go to the gym and run, run, run…. Is there anything that you dislike about the travel industry? Discounting - the best service should deserve the booking, not just the cheapest price. What special skill do you have? I would say that I have the gift of the gab. If your life was turned into a movie, which actor would play you? Halle Berry – intelligent, vivacious and independent. What do you love about your job? I like the fact that every day is different. I’m meeting different people who run different agencies and building relationships with agents. Knowing that you have made a difference to them which in turn makes them use your company is very fulfilling and the people are great.

If you were not doing this job, what would you be doing? I think that I would be a PA or an events organiser as I’m so organised. I end up planning other people’s weddings for them! What is your motto in life? Live for today!

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portugal&madeira Monte da Quinta

LOCATED BETWEEN the Atlantic Ocean and the Ria Formosa Natural Park in the Quinta do Lago estate, Monte da Quinta features a collection of 132 self-catering suites and a range of two and three-bedroom townhouses and villas, all with private pools. Three 18hole championship golf courses are within easy reach on the adjacent Quinta do Lago estate, while tennis, mountain biking and watersport facilities are all available nearby. From June 24-26 the resort will be hosting the Lawrence Dallaglio Foundation Golf 2012 event for the second time. Prices lead in at £8,000 for a team of four which includes two days of golf on Quinta do Lago’s golf course, Laranjal; two nights' single occupancy stay; two gala dinners; a professional golf management service and live digital scoring; and entertainment and unlimited golf following the event. For details see www.montedaquintaresort.com

Sunvil Discovery launches 2012 Portugal & Madeira brochure SUNVIL DISCOVERY has launched its 2012 'Real Portugal & Madeira' brochure, featuring a range of accommodation options and flexible itineraries to lesserknown areas of the country. The operator has also announced that its exclusive flight to Beja in the heart of the Alentejo will continue, departing from Heathrow once a week. New properties in the brochure include manor house Casa do Sezim, set in its own vineyards just outside Guimaraes, the European Capital of Culture for 2012 and the five-star Onyria Marinha Edition Hotel & Thalasso near Cascais, which features a golf course that offers views over the Atlantic and Sintra mountain range. The operator's product manager, Rosanna Melaragni, said: “We have always delved a little deeper into Portugal, venturing to little-known areas and focusing on characterful pousadas and family-run properties. Our Alentejo

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programme is a prime example – untouched and unknown, it offers a beautiful landscape of sweeping plains dotted with cork trees and pretty whitewashed villages without the crowds. Following the introduction of the Beja flight in 2011, we have added three new properties to the region for 2012, and are offering more of an insight into what to see and do in this fascinating area. New properties have also been handpicked in Madeira, Northern Portugal and Porto.” As an example of prices, a three-night breakfast stay at the newly featured Yeatman Hotel in Porto leads in at £563 per person including flights and transfers. The five-star property is located on the south bank of the Douro, in peaceful landscaped grounds. All rooms offer unobstructed views over the river to the historic centre of Porto. For more information call 020-8758 4747 or visit www.sunvil.co.uk

May 11 2012

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portugal&madeira Sheraton Pine Cliffs

Spring sale from Mark Warner offers discounts of up to 45% MARK WARNER has launched a ‘Spring Sale’ offering discounts on selected holidays including its Ocean Club and Sheraton Pine Cliffs resorts in Portugal between this month and August, with savings of up to 45%. The company’s head of marketing, Tim Locke, said: “Our holidays represent fantastic quality and value for money and we hope that travel agents get behind these excellent offers which will appeal to customers

whether they are families, individuals or couples. We are offering some significant discounts which we are confident will stimulate late bookings for spring and summer.” As an example of prices, a six-night half-board stay at Ocean Club in the Algarve costs £650 per person, offering a saving of £326 per person. Departures are on August 5, 12 and 19 from Gatwick and accommodation is in villa-style apartments. Child prices

Madeira Islands launches interactive blog CREATED TO provide an inside look at the views of the archipelago, at the click of a button, ‘Your Madeira’ is a new informative online platform which features 'need to know’ information and the latest news from the destination. For details see www.yourmadeira.com

Carrier highlights latest package deals CARRIER IS promoting a range of package deals in Portugal including a seven-night stay at Penha Longa Hotel & Golf Resort in Sintra. The deal includes reduced rates, complimentary golf and an early booking discount and is valid from June 1 to September 4 when booked 30 days prior to arrival. Prices lead in at £845 per person, based on a June 21 departure, which offers a saving of up to £260 per couple. A seven-night stay at Sheraton Algarve Hotel & Pine Cliffs Resort includes daily golf and a free upgrade to halfboard, based on stays until May 31. Prices lead in at £960 per person for a May 15 departure, which offers a saving of up to £530 per couple. For more information or to book call 0161-492 1357 or visit www.carrier.co.uk

May 11 2012

(aged two-11) for the same week lead in at £625, offering a saving of £274. All prices include flights, transfers, accommodation, dining as stated, fitness and activity programmes, sailing and windsurfing with tuition, tennis facilities, childcare and evening creche options. For more information call 0844-273 6826, email agencysales@markwarner.co.uk or visit www.markwarner.co.uk

easyJet & Turismo de Portugal celebrate Lisbon base launch EASYJET HAS opened its 23rd network base in Lisbon. Filipe Silva, UK director, Turismo de Portugal, said: “The opening of the Lisbon base by easyJet is of significant importance in the continued strengthening of UK and Portugal relations. We’re excited to see that the British airline is committed to offering both business and leisure travellers from the UK the fantastic services it is known for, and we are confident that this new investment will benefit the development of Portugal as a tourism destination.” The new base will increase Portugal’s connectivity with the rest of Europe and will bring the total number of European destinations operated by the airline to and from Portugal to 42. Currently British travellers can fly from the UK to four Portuguese locations: Lisbon, Porto, Algarve and Madeira. The carrier expects to carry four million passengers to and from Portugal this year, and the new base will provide a platform for further growth in Portugal in the coming years. For more information visit www.visitportugal.com and www.easyjet.com

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portugal&madeira

Along the Costa Vicentina

Inntravel offers walking holidays along newly opened long distance trail INNTRAVEL is offering an Alentejo walking holiday along a new longdistance trail that opens today (May 11). The Rota Vicentina is a new longdistance Pedestrian Route in South-West Portugal stretching from Cape St. Vincent to Santiago do CacĂŠm, and a new Website promoting the route has been launched at www.rotavicentina.com/en There are two complimentary routes the Historic Route and the Fishermanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s route, both of which take in small villages and towns which showcase the essence of this deeply rural region and

its unique connection with the sea. Several sections of the Fishermanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s route also coincide with the operator's self-guided walking break, Along the Costa Vicentina. Aside from the scenery, one of the highlights of the holiday is the accommodation; guests walk between the hotels, while their luggage is transported in advance. Six different hotels are featured in the itinerary, ranging from luxury ranch-style hotels to pristine townhouses. Among them is the Herdade de Touril, which has recently

won â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The Best Rural Hotel in Portugalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; award in the Publituris Portugal Trade Awards â&#x20AC;&#x201C; by a voting jury comprised of influential personalities from the tourism and hospitality industries in Portugal. A seven-night self-guided walking break in Alentejo, including breakfast, four dinners, five picnic lunches, route notes and maps and luggage transportation, costs from ÂŁ665 per person, based on two sharing. Flights are extra. For more information call 01653-617000 or visit www.inntravel.co.uk

PORTUGAL & MADEIRA Prestige Holidays offer a wide choice of hotels in Madeira and the Algarve to suit your clients needs. From the larger resort hotels, to the more intimate Quintas and rural properties. We have many special offers including huge savings, free nights, room upgrades, free golf and much much more. Why not call us for a quote? Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget Love to Shop vouchers for each booking made. More affordable luxury holidays from your local airport.

Prestige Holidays on 01425 480400 www.prestigeholidays.co.uk

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portugal&madeira Classic Collection adds new Madeira property CLASSIC COLLECTION Holidays has introduced the Porto Bay Serra Golf hotel in Madeira for summer. The 1920s Art Nouveaux building brings the total number of properties offered by the operator on the islands of Madeira and Porto Santo to 29. The property, which is located in Santo da Serra, close to the PGA golf course, offers 22 bedrooms and suites and has been the subject of a recent extensive refurbishment. The operator is offering seven nights’ accommodation on a bed-andbreakfast basis from £706 per person in June including flights and private transfers. Keen golfers are also offered a golf package for £401 which includes up to six green fees at Santo da Serra golf course and one green fee at Palheiro golf course with guaranteed start times and transfers. The new property makes its debut in

the company’s new year-round Madeira & Porto Santo brochure for 2012/13, which is the first to mark the operators 25th anniversary in 2013. To celebrate the new brochure, travel agents are being offered a £10 Marks & Spencer voucher per passenger on all sales to Madeira and Portugal this month. The company’s head of purchasing, Gary Boyer, said: “We will be celebrating 25 years in business later this year. Madeira was our first destination and we are fiercely loyal to it. Our new Madeira brochure is the first to promote our silver anniversary in 2013. What’s more we are using our favourable relationship with highly professional hoteliers to secure as many special offers as possible making the island, which is already at least 30% cheaper than many other short-haul destinations, an unbeatable

The Porto Bay Serra Golf Hotel

value for money resort. And with customer feedback remaining amongst the highest for any of our destinations, we are confident that Madeira will maintain its position as one of the most well-loved holiday destination on the UK market.” For more information or to book call 0800-008 7288 or visit www.classic-collection.co.uk

Superbreak adds new flight-inclusive packages & new hotel in Portugal AGENTS CAN now book flight inclusive short break packages to Lisbon with Superbreak, meaning they can book flights, accommodation and extras all in one place and with ATOL protection. Flights are available with a range of low-cost airlines and hotels offer flexible durations allowing agents to tailor what they book to each customer. The operator has also added a new hotel in Lisbon, the four-star Hotel Florida. Located in the heart of the city,

the recently renovated boutique hotel is located close to shops, cultural sites and nightlife, in front of Marques de Pombal underground station, which connects with all major transportation in the area. A two-night breakfast package, staying over a weekend in October costs from £260 per person at the Hotel Florida, including flights with easyJet from Gatwick. For more information visit www.superbreak.com/agents or call 0871-221 4444.

Algarve welcomes new property launches including new Hilton Resort & Spa THE RADISSON Blue Resort & Spa Portimao is scheduled to open in the Algarve next month. The luxury hotel will feature 192 bedrooms, a bar, two restaurants, a conference centre, two swimming pools, a spa and tennis courts. For details see www.radissonblu.com/resort-spa-portimao Meanwhile, the Conrad Algarve Resort is set to open this

autumn as the new Hilton Resort and Spa in Quinta do Lago. The luxury development, which spans more than 1,400sq.m will feature 158 guest rooms and suites designed to reflect a contemporary Portuguese style. The grounds will include themed gardens, swimming pools and a spa and health club. For more information see www.conradhotels3.hilton.com

Your Car Hire eases hassle of toll roads

Attraction World highlights Zoomarine experience in the Algarve

YOUR CAR Hire reports that the Portuguese government has recently changed the way it manages the use of some of the main roads in the country such as the A22, A23, A24 and A25. These roads will no longer be free to travel on and will incur a fee. However, they will only have overhead gantry systems, and will not have toll booths or machines where you can pay as you go. Car hirers will therefore have to pay for the tolls at the Post Office within 48-hours of use or incur a fine. However, the operator is using suppliers who have electronic devices for hire on collection of the vehicle, for a minimal fee, whereby the hirer will be debited automatically for the tolls incurred from their bank account or by preloading an amount onto the machine, avoiding costly fines and queues at the post office. For more information visit www.your-carhire.com

May 11 2012

FAMILIES VISITING the Algarve can experience an educational day out at the Zoomarine Park in the Algarve by pre-booking tickets with Attraction World. Open from now until October, the attraction is ideal for customers staying in and around Albufeira as the park is just a few kilometres away from the resort. Visitors can watch dolphins, seals, sharks, turtles, exotic birds, seabirds, alligators and tropical fish. The park also features restaurants, shops, amusements and swimming pools. The tour is fully commissionable to agents and costs £27 per adult and £18 per child, aged five-ten. For more information see www.attractionworld.com or call 0871-700 8888.

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middleeast New developments & major sporting events help reignite interest by CHRIS JARVIS, director of sales & marketing - UK, Rotana Hotels E HEAR so much about all the problems going on in the Middle East, why would anyone want to spend their holidays there? Well actually, the Middle East is a huge area and whilst undoubtedly there have been troubles in some destinations there are lots of areas untouched by the troubles that offer great holiday experiences, guaranteed good weather and very often at very affordable rates.

A personal recommendation Take for instance Sharm el Sheikh in Egypt. Of course there have been issues in Cairo and in some other cities across the country, whereas Sharm has been totally untouched by these incidents and is an oasis of calm, makes an ideal year-round holiday and rates have never been better. In fact, I’ve recommended it to a number of industry colleagues and family who have stayed at our Grand Rotana Sharm el Sheikh in recent months and had the best holiday ever. Head to Dubai and you’ll find it is booming these days; full of life, lots of activities to do with luxury at very affordable prices - it can be whatever kind of holiday you want it to be. It’s a city break, it’s a family holiday, it’s a mecca for sports fans and right across the region there are great concerts taking place such as Madonna performing in Abu Dhabi next month. Also, whilst there is an abundance of luxury four- and five-star hotels at excellent rates, there has been a growth in the mid-scale properties that are always a level above anything you'll find in Europe.

Up and coming destinations Other developing areas in the region are emirates such as Ras al Khaimah and Fujairah which would make a great twin-centre break with Dubai. Perhaps suggest your clients take four or five days in Dubai then transfer to relax at any of these two emirates, which are only 45-minutes or two hours respectively from Dubai - it’s also great way to upsell your clients. I have to say also that although Rotana doesn't have a hotel there yet (although plans are scheduled for one in Salalah soon), Oman is a beautiful country with very friendly people. I spent nearly two years out there, working at one of the top hotels in the region and I can certainly vouch for that. Muscat is fascinating and the country has so much to offer. Get your sporting fix I know I touched on it earlier but the gulf region has some of the finest sporting facilities you can imagine. You’ll have seen that there have been some major sports events in the region of late. The England- Pakistan cricket series took place in the Abu Dhabi and Dubai area earlier this year, and there have been major golf and tennis tournaments, not to mention the World Club football match, which was held in Abu Dhabi recently. Many premiership football teams also take mid-season breaks out there and don’t forget the rugby 7s. Whether your clients are into horseracing or Formula 1 there’s something for everyone. The Middle East has so much to offer that it would be a shame for your clients to miss out, so give it the attention it deserves - you won’t regret it. ✦

New developments Whilst Dubai is already well known, Abu Dhabi is developing into a destination in its own right. With its beautiful coastline and lively city, it is a wonderful destination with a host of activities for visitors to enjoy. The destination has also developed Yas Island with its F1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix track, a championship golf course and the ‘out of this world’ Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, all waiting to be discovered. As well as a number of new hotels opening along its coastline, Saadiyat Island, another of Abu Dhabi's natural islands, will unveil the Sheik Zayed Museum, The Louvre Abu Dhabi and The Guggenheim Abu Dhabi. With these new developments, Saadiyat Island is set to be one of the main cultural centres of the world.

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May 11 2012

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middleeast Mosaic Holidays reports increased demand for Jordan and Dubai MOSAIC HOLIDAYS reports an increase in Jordan enquiries with considerable support from the travel trade. The operator has been investing heavily in agents through its brochures, recently revamped Website, BRIGHT roadshows and educational trips, and says that this investment is now bearing fruit. The company’s sales director, Darren Panto, said: “We have been approached by a number of high quality travel agents to work closer with them, and that is the type of partnership we are looking for. “With the only dedicated Jordan brochure in the market, our strong brand image is coming through, and Jordan has a number of unique, high quality products for discerning guests – and that’s our strength.” Meanwhile, the operator also reports increased interest in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Egypt. In Abu Dhabi, the company is expanding its programme as more high quality hotels come to the market and says that an increased number of new agents are booking with them as the market becomes more competitive and clients are becoming more demanding. The operator also

reports an excellent recovery in the number and quality of holidays to Dubai, and this includes twin-centre holidays with the operator’s other Indian Ocean programme including Sri Lanka. As an example of offers, a five-night breakfast stay at the five-star Al Qasr – Madinat Jumeirah, departing on September 18 and including flights and transfers, leads in at £1,739 per person, offering a saving of 20% off the normal price. In Egypt the company reports slow but steady demand. The operator’s managing director, Sabina Shaida, said: “We had no calls from worried people and I think many travellers to Egypt are pretty savvy. We’ve had a positive response from agents booking high value classical Egypt holidays, and re-assure them regarding Cairo. “Clients are having a great time, seeing the sights, and missing all the crowds at the major tourist attractions. There isn’t the volume of people at sites such as Luxor and Karnak, Cairo and Alexandria, and this is great for tourists.” For more information call 020-8574 4000 or visit www.mosaicholidays.co.uk

Qatar Airways showcases Boeing 787 Dreamliner for summer delivery QATAR AIRWAYS unveiled its new Boeing 787 seats at the recent Arabian Travel Market (ATM) in Dubai. The first of 60 aircraft are currently on order, due for delivery this summer. Business Class is configured 1–2–1 featuring seats that convert into fully flat horizontal beds, while Economy

Class has a 3–3–3 cabin layout. Key features include an iTouch control unit, more than 1,000 movie programming and audio entertainment options, an iPort, USB port, remote data outlet, a custom designed culinary offering and storage space - all available in both cabin classes. As part of its 2012

expansion programme, the carrier has launched flights to a further 11 destinations – Zagreb (launched last week); Perth from July 3 and other cities during the year, including Mombasa, Zanzibar, Helsinki, Gassim, Belgrade, Erbil, Baghdad, Kilimanjaro and Yangon. See www.qatarairways.com

Attraction World highlights Dubai shopping tour ATTRACTION WORLD is highlighting a morning shopping tour in Dubai, which picks up from a range of hotels and leads in at £27 per adult and £19 per child, aged three11 years. For more information visit www.attractionworld.com or call 0871-700 8888.

Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa in Dubai unveils new watersports centre

DESERT PALM in Dubai has unveiled five new Polo Suites, bringing the total number of rooms and villas to 38. The suites feature floor to ceiling windows, outdoor terrace areas, fully loaded iPods to cater for a range of musical tastes, flat-screen TVs and Nespresso machines. Daily rates start from US$390 on a room-only basis, based on two people sharing. For details see www.desertpalm.ae

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THE JEBEL Ali Golf Resort & Spa in Dubai has unveiled a new watersports centre following the announcement of a partnership with Watercooled. New activities include dinghy sailing, catamarans and yoga on stand-up paddle boards. The resort's general manager, Fredrik Reinisch, said: “The new cutting-edge watersports centre has made an outstanding addition to the facilities at our resort. We pride ourselves on being a family resort and believe our partnership with Watercooled adds to our resort ethos. The contemporary and fun design of the centre plus expert tuition, high calibre equipment and welcoming staff, makes the club a very popular place to enjoy, participate and relax in.” For more information visit www.jebelali-international.com

May 11 2012

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Treasured Time. Our promise to you.

At Rotana, we have chosen to acknowledge how precious time is to you by making all time spent with us, Treasured Time. This means that we pledge to understand and meet the individual needs of all our guests. In so doing, we have evolved our product brands to include, Rotana Hotels & Resorts, Arjaan Hotel Apartments by Rotana, Centro Hotels by Rotana and Rayhaan Hotels & Resorts by Rotana.

P.O. Box: 43500, Abu Dhabi, UAE T: +971 (0)2 644 4412, F: +971 (0)2 644 4413, head.ofďŹ ce@rotana.com

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middleeast Intrepid Travel offers 25% off selected Jordan & Lebanon itineraries INTREPID TRAVEL is offering 25% off selected trips in Turkey and the Middle East throughout this month and next. As examples, an eight-day Explore Jordan itinerary costs from £480 (excluding flights), for departures on

June 2 and 23. The tour offers a mix of modernity and ancient wonders and takes in the city of Amman, Wadi Rum, the ruins of Petra and a trek to the remote hilltop village of Dana. An eight-day Explore Lebanon itinerary leads in at £525 (excluding flights), with departures on June 9 and 30 and explores Beirut's cafes, bars, arts scene and Roman temples.

Spaces for both tours are limited and bookings must be made by June 1. Agents need to quote promo code 8905 for the discount. For more information or to book visit www.intrepidtravel.com

Jordan

Page & Moy optimistic for 2013 bounce back PAGE & MOY reports that despite sales being down across a number of countries in the Middle East, customer confidence is making a comeback and signs for 2013 and 2014 are positive. The company’s head of sales, Colin Wilson, said: “The Middle East has had its toughest ever period, since the Arab Spring revolution and we have certainly seen tourism to these destinations suffer in 2012. “Sales for Egypt for example are down year on year, however the region now seems to be in recovery and destinations such as Israel and Jordan are

performing really well, with sales actually up 4% year-on-year. “Looking into 2013 I would certainly say that the Middle East is very much ‘open for business’. Customer confidence is growing and I predict that regions that have suffered will see a return to previous sales levels by 2014, if we invest in giving the region our support. “The region's sightseeing is superb, the standard of accommodation, food and service is generally high and the friendliness, hospitality and welcome of the locals is warm. With this, opportunities exist for more product

development across the region and I expect to see a lot more from Arabia including Oman, Dubai and Lebanon.” Travelsphere offers eight day tours of Israel from £899 per person, a sevenday “Treasures of Jordan” tour from £1,099 and an eight-day tour of Egypt from £899. Meanwhile, Just You is offering an eight-day tour of Jordan from £1,739 and an eight-day ‘Pyramids & Nile Cruise’ tour from £1,449. For more information visit www.justyou.co.uk and www.travelsphere.co.uk

Emirates Airlines doubles Glasgow service to Dubai from next month EMIRATES AIRLINES has announced plans to introduce a second daily non-stop flight from Glasgow to Dubai, from June 1, following continued growth in demand for the airline’s service between the two destinations. The additional flight, coupled with an aircraft upgrade on the existing service, will increase the carrier’s capacity to and from Glasgow by 47% - an extra 398 seats per day, and will also see the introduction of a First Class cabin on both daily services, the first time this has been offered by a commercial airline from Scotland. The company’s vice president UK & Ireland, Laurie Berryman, said: “The introduction of a First Class cabin on both daily flights means greater choice for passengers, and increased cargo capacity means more export business opportunities for cargo shippers in Scotland.” The airline will also add more than 2,000 seats a week to and from Newcastle when it introduces a larger aircraft on its daily flight to Dubai from September 1. A 428-seat Boeing 777-300ER, the longest aircraft to operate from Newcastle, will replace a 278-seat Airbus A330200 on the route - a capacity increase of more than 50%. Meanwhile, Emirates Tours is offering a three-night

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package at Hilton Dubai Jumeirah Residences in Dubai from £749 per person, which offers a saving of up to £230 per couple. The offer, which must be booked by June 30, is based on two people sharing a Studio Deluxe Sea View room with breakfast and includes Economy Class flights with Emirates from Gatwick. It is valid for travel between June 15 to July 15 and August 11-31. The company is also offering Formula One fans the chance to secure a range of tailored packages to the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in November when booking by May 31. As an example of prices, a four-night Abu Dhabi Grand Prix Package at Jebel Ali Hotel in Dubai costs £1,679 per person, based on two sharing on a bed-and-breakfast basis. All packages include Economy Class flights from Gatwick, a three-day ticket for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix (valid for November 2, 3 and 4) in the North, West or Marina Grandstands with an early booking saving of £320 per couple, transfers and daily coach transfers from the hotel to the Grand Prix circuit. For more information call 020-7590 1450 or visit www.emiratestours.co.uk and www.emirates.com/uk

May 11 2012

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middleeast Starwood Hotels & Resorts signs deal on three Dubai properties STARWOOD HOTELS & Resorts has signed an agreement with United Arab Emirates-based conglomerate, Al Habtoor Group, to open three luxury hotels in Dubai. Located in the Dubai International Financial Centre and Business Bay areas, the development will include the first St. Regis hotel in Dubai, a W Hotel and a new Westin, adding 1,675 rooms to the city when they open in 2017. The development will feature an entertainment venue

surrounded by landscaped gardens on more than 500,000sq.ft of land. The company currently operates 15 properties in Dubai, representing the second largest concentration of the company's hotels in a single city outside of New York. It operates close to 50 hotels in the Middle East, including 23 hotels in the UAE and is set to open more than 30 hotels in the region over the coming years.

Funway Holidays sees increased demand for stopovers FUNWAY HOLIDAYS, which has recently included the InterContinental Abu Dhabi to its programme which offers free halfboard when guests stay a minimum of seven nights, reports that it has seen an increase in stop-overs. The company's Middle East product manager, Malcolm Davies, said: "We have noticed an increase in the interest of stop-overs in other east destinations on the way to Dubai, Abu Dhabi or Oman. Generally sales are steady in terms of confirmed direct bookings." The operator is offering a range of

deals and discounts for Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Oman, including free nights and rate discounts at the Le Meridien Abu Dhabi, as well as similar offers available in Dubai with a number of hotels also including free upgrades to half-board. As an example of prices, a fournight stay at the four-star Le Meridien Abu Dhabi, including flights with Oman Air, leads in at £635 per person based on two adults sharing. The price includes one free night, a 40% room rate discount and transfers and is based on a June 20 departure.

Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix packages from Sunset Faraway SUNSET FARAWAY HOLIDAYS is officially selling Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix packages where guests can experience the action on the Yas Marina circuit from a choice of packages. As an example of prices, a four-night breakfast stay at the five-star InterContinental Abu Dhabi Hotel leads in at £1,889 per person including flights, transfers, airport taxes and three days’ Grand Stand passes. For more information visit www.sunset.co.uk or call 020-8774 7100.

InterContinental Abu Dhabi

For more information or to book visit www.funway4agents.co.uk or call 0844-557 4242.

September launch for Amari Doha ONYX HOSPITALITY Group has been appointed by Gulf Trading and Contracting Company (GTC) to operate a 120-room hotel in the Qatari capital, Doha, which is scheduled to open in September. The company’s president and CEO, Peter Henley, said: “This project will be the first Amari property in the Middle East. It is a significant milestone for us and we plan to bring the personalised guest services and experiences that are a key attribute of the Amari brand to the region. Amari Doha will provide genuine Asian

hospitality with a modern twist. “Business travellers will enjoy premium quality, convenience and thoughtful consideration through our creative corporate packages and thoughtfully designed meeting spaces. Leisure travellers too will experience Amari Doha’s unique style, exceptional service and leisure facilities whilst also being encouraged to enjoy the local places of interest.” The 13-storey property will feature 120 guestrooms, including 78 superior rooms, 36 deluxe rooms and six suites.

Dubai welcomes tourism surge ANANTARA HOTELS, Resorts & Spas is set to launch its first city hotel in the Middle East, Eastern Mangroves Hotel & Spa by Anantara, next month. Occupying a prime position along a 1.2km stretch of Abu Dhabi’s protected Eastern Mangroves District, the new five-star property will be home to the UAE’s largest hammam and VIP suite, The Royal Mangroves Residence, and will feature 222 guestrooms and suites across five levels. Other facilities include three restaurants and bars including a Thai speciality restaurant, a rooftop lounge, a spa, ballroom and conference facilities. For details email easternmangroves@anantara.com or visit www.anantara.com

May 11 2012

OFFICIALS AT the Dubai Department of Tourism & Commerce Marketing (DTCM) have announced figures outlining the local tourism industry’s performance in the first three quarters of last year. Dubai hotels played host to a total of 6.64million guests during that time, up by 11% compared to the corresponding period in 2010. Guest nights rose by 26% over the period to reach 23.9million, while the average length of stay increased by 14%. Revenue at hotels in the emirate also increased by 19% to AED10.96 billion.

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ukairports e h t : s t r o p ir a l a n Regio l a c lo g in ly f f o s it f e ben nior marketing & by CATRIN ELIS, se iff Airport PR executive, Card

EGIONAL AIRPORTS have been going through a tough time over the past few years due to the difficult economic climate, and Cardiff Airport is no different. At present the aviation industry is facing many challenges related to the economy, high fuel prices, high costs of Air Passenger Duty (APD) and the forthcoming European Union carbon charging scheme. These and other factors can dampen demand and increase risks.

How airlines choose airports An airline will only serve a region if they think it will be profitable, and if the region fits in with its overall strategic objectives. In addition if an airline has large scale operations with good economies of scope and scale from a competitive airport, it is even more challenging to persuade them to move or fragment their operation to another airport without the financial risks being covered. Airline and route development The Cardiff Airport route development team are pitching to airlines weekly in an effort to convince them of the demand and opportunities available to serve the South Wales market. The airport is proud to have attracted three new airlines or operators to the airport over the past year, namely: ● Vueling – have been operating Barcelona flights from March and will launch Alicante and Palma flights from June ● Cosmos – selling Orlando package holidays from May ● Helvetic Airways – have been operating flights to Zurich since March 2011 However, to ensure these new routes are successful, inbound and outbound seats must be sold to demonstrate demand for the services from the region. In addition to working to attract new airlines, it’s also important to focus on our current operations. There is a very strong charter market and load factors from Cardiff Airport on scheduled services have strengthened. Inbound traffic has also increased over the past year, and naturally inbound traffic is more beneficial to Wales and the Welsh economy. Regional benefits For some destinations there is not enough demand from regional markets to make the route viable as a direct service.

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However these routes can be served from regional airports via larger hubs, and this is an important market from Cardiff Airport. The KLM offering via Amsterdam Schiphol, Flybe/Air France via Paris, Aer Lingus via Dublin and now Vueling via Barcelona, means most destinations can be reached from Cardiff via onestop, connecting flights – and when every factor is taken into account a connecting flight from a local, regional airport can often be quicker, more convenient and cost-effective than travelling from London directly to the chosen destination. Working with agents South Wales is a very strong region for travel agents, and it’s important for the local airport to have a good working relationship with agents within the catchment. Communication tools such as newsletters and electronic eshots are useful to keep local agents updated with the latest news and developments. The airport also runs numerous incentives in conjunction with tour operators, with prizes such as hospitality at concerts, race days and spa days to treat agents who have achieved their targets and assisted in driving sales through their local airport. Working with agents on car parking and executive lounge strategies is also an important element of the airport’s partnership with travel agents. The airport’s commercial team are always open to discussions on new ways in which we can assist agents in driving sales through their local airport. A small, regional airport has more flexibility and opportunities to trial new ways of working. Commission opportunities and commercial deals can be offered for travel agents to sell the executive lounge, and car parking rates can also be offered to agents depending on volumes and commercial terms.✦

For more information e-mail marketing@cwl.aero

May 11 2012

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ukairports MAG & Monarch Airlines announce new base at East Midlands Airport MAG, THE owner of East Midlands Airport, and Monarch Airlines have announced an agreement to introduce flights to Malaga, Alicante, Palma and Faro from late summer. The new flights will cover most of the destinations to Spain and Portugal affected by the closure of bmibaby from September, which was announced by its owners, IAG. MAG's chief commercial officer, Ken O'Toole said: "There's no doubt that passengers seeking winter sun from East Midlands Airport will welcome this news from Monarch. Whilst we’re sorry to see the closure of bmibaby, Spain and Portugal are extremely popular destinations with our passengers and we were very keen to ensure that we were able to provide this. We are delighted that Monarch Airlines is taking advantage of this opportunity and I am sure they will be a successful and popular operator.” Commenting on the announcement, managing director of Monarch Airlines, Kevin George said: “As opportunities have opened up in the market, it has become clear that the Midlands will be underserved as a region in the future. “The launch of operations from East Midlands makes perfect sense for Monarch, and accelerates the strategy we announced last year to focus on the development of our scheduled operations into key leisure destinations across the Mediterranean, the Canaries and North Africa “The further expansion of our services from the Midlands will provide even more customers with choice and flexibility and protects jobs at East Midlands Airport in the future." The airline will unveil details about its schedule and timetable over the coming weeks.

CARDIFF COUP…Vueling will be operating flights to Barcelona three times weekly from Cardiff and will be adding Alicante and Palma, both also available three times weekly, to its Cardiff operation from the end of next month. Pictured marking the new services are, from the left: Alex Cruz of Vueling with Patrick Duffy and Spencer Birns of Cardiff Airport.

Summer schedule takes off at LCA LONDON CITY Airport has commenced its summer schedule with the addition of new routes from partner airlines, offering more choice to business and leisure travellers. New summer routes include Brest and Quimper in Brittany and Angers in the Loire Valley, which brings the total number of French destinations served by the airport to 12. British Airways begins its flights to Quimper and Angers from May 25, while CityJet will be increasing its twice-weekly service to Brive to five times weekly in July and August. British Airways will also be introducing the island of Menorca to its Balearic programme with flights to Mahon starting on May 25 and the airport’s passengers can now take advantage of flights to Menorca, Mallorca and Ibiza and for leisure purposes. The airline has also announced the launch of flights from London City to Venice in Northern Italy, which begins in September. This brings the total of destinations served by BA from the airport to 22. Meanwhile, twice daily flights to Basel in Switzerland resume from May 21 with Swiss International Airlines and flights to Scotland have received a boost with CityJet introducing an additional rotation by increasing its daily number of flights to and from Edinburgh as well as launching a late night Sunday flight from London City to facilitate domestic travel from the capital.

Holiday Inn Manchester Airport launches Park, Stay & Fly Club

FREE SHOPPING service from HolidayExtras.com HolidayExtras.com’s customers who book into one of the company’s airport lounges can now benefit from the free services of a personal shopper. The company has added the new service to three of its UK airport lounges. At Heathrow, travellers who book into a No.1 lounge can now be guided around the airport’s range of shops and seek out gifts and duty-free deals, and at Gatwick guests can opt for one-to-one assistance in the World Duty Free store and pick up money-off vouchers. Travellers can book a VIP treatment at any of the three lounges from £15 per person.

May 11 2012

HOLIDAY INN Manchester Airport has unveiled a Park, Stay and Fly Club, located a few minutes away from the airport. The hotel offers a range of amenities, including a leisure club with air-conditioned gym, indoor heated pool, restaurant, Wi-fi, regular transfers to the airport and secure parking. With the new service members can benefit from the best rates when booking, as well as flexibility that allows cancellations up to 4pm on the date of the stay. Discounts, including 25% off food and drink, plus 30minutes of free internet access, are also offered to members, as well as the opportunity to earn priority reward points and take advantage of a loyalty scheme which means that from their sixth stay guests will receive a further 15% discount. For more information visit www.qmh-hotels.com/parkstayfly or call 01625-889988

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ukairports

LIVERPOOL JOHN Lennon Airport has welcomed the addition of a new ‘Aspire by Servisair’ airport lounge. The new facility has been designed to meet the needs of both business and leisure travellers with the addition of carefully designed side tables within the seating areas, to facilitate laptop, iPad or gaming console charging facilities. The lounge seats up to 97 passengers – twice as many as the airport’s previous executive lounge, and offers a complimentary menu, including hot food, snacks, treats, drinks and free Wi-fi. Bookings can be made in advance at www.executivelounges.com/aspire or by turning up on the day at reception. Entry costs £17.49 for adults and £9.99 for children under 12 when booked in advance.

Gatwick calls for better rail links to compete with Heathrow INDUSTRY EXPERTS, Arup, has published a new report, “Supporting UK growth and global market access: the case for high quality rail services to Gatwick Airport”, which outlines a vision for ensuring that the UK’s busiest rail network and its second largest airport are properly integrated, supporting the UK’s future international connectivity and the needs of the commuter. The company says that if Britain is to compete on a global stage it must have strong air links to the emerging markets. The UK trades about 20 times as much with countries with daily (or better) direct flight connections as it does with countries with poor connectivity. Gatwick currently operates at around 78% capacity so is able to accommodate more flights and support the economic wellbeing of the UK. The airport has already opened new routes to key trading partners, including direct routes to China, Hong Kong, South Korea and Vietnam. Rail links however are critical to attracting new airlines and research shows that airlines rate surface access to an airport as one of the top three critical reasons for locating there. Commenting on the report, Guy Stephenson, the airport’s chief commercial officer, said: “Passengers’ journeys from plane to train to the heart of London from Gatwick are the fastest and most convenient of all London airports and airlines are choosing to operate from Gatwick because of our connectivity to London. “However, the report shows that a passenger’s impressions of Gatwick’s rail links lag behind other London airports and the capabilities of the trains on the Gatwick Express rank below equivalents at Heathrow, Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur and Stockholm airports. We have the capacity to handle more flights and strengthen our country’s trade links with emerging markets. But if Gatwick is to continue attracting the new routes the economy needs, its rail links must improve in quality and extent.” The report also proposes that any new proposed rail franchise should seek to cater for the needs of air passengers and commuters in the South East, and should require rail links to and from Gatwick to be improved. In particular, any new operator must provide a direct, express rail link to London with new carriages and re-introduce an onboard ticketing service. Meanwhile, Gatwick Airport’s efforts to keep passengers informed with up-to-the minute details during disruptive weather, flight delays and everyday airport activity has been recognised by Twitter. The airport is the first UK airport to be listed as a trusted news source with Twitter’s ‘blue tick’ of authority – a social media honour given to profiles to authenticate that a legitimate source is authoring Tweets. Lindsay Baldwin, head of airport communications, said: “We recognise the importance of providing accurate and timely communication – not only during times of disruption but also in responding to broader enquiries or passenger feedback. Twitter provides us with an immediate and effective communications platform to do just this and we thank them for their support of our efforts.”

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Manchester takes the next steps to embrace mobile technology DIGITAL AGENCY, KMP Digitata, has created and implemented a mobile friendly site to cater for all major smartphones, and brings the key areas of the Manchester Airport Website on to mobile. The company was brought on board by the airport to deliver the next steps in the road towards a consistent multichannel experience for airport customers. The agency identified that iPhone and Android are the largest penetration devices for the airport’s audience, and that currently much of its content consumed around the airport is while a user is in transit or in the airport. The mobile site, which will complement the existing iPhone app, allows users to access live flight information, full timetable information and airport maps from their smartphone.

May 11 2012

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ukairports We asked our staff the following question this week: What do you miss most about being a kid? Publisher: Jeanette Ratcliffe jeanette.ratcliffe@travelbulletin.co.uk Cuddles with my mum

Editor: Lauretta Wright lauretta.wright@travelbulletin.co.uk Not having to clock-watch and playing outside in the street

Assistant Editor: Jill Sayles jill.sayles@travelbulletin.co.uk Six-week summer holidays

Contributing Editor: Paul Scudamore post@travelbulletin.co.uk Growing up (although, come to think of it, I'm still in the process...)

Sales Director: Simon Eddolls simon.eddolls@travelbulletin.co.uk It never mattered that I didn't have a watch

Advertisement Manager: Tim Podger tim.podger@travelbulletin.co.uk Total blind faith in all things magical and mysterious

Online Sales Manager: Nick Boocock nick.boocock@travelbulletin.co.uk Being good at football

Account Manager: Bill Coad bill.coad@travelbulletin.co.uk Growing up

Sales Executive: Chris Gascoine chris.gascoine@alaincharles.com Playing in the sand and water at playgroup

Design: Genaro Santos genaro.santos@alaincharles.com Not having to worry about money

Assistant Layout Design: Nicky Valsamakis nicky.valsamakis@alaincharles.com Being small enough to ride my rocking horse

Production: Jeremy Walters jeremy.walters@alaincharles.com Having no responsibilities

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 - Travel Bulletin is published weekly and distributed to every ABTA, TTA & GTG agent. Subscriptions are £105 p.a. for tour operators and others, plus additional ABTA, IATA copies. Overseas subscriptions by air mail: £155 ISSN: 0956-2419

Audit Bureau of Circulations Business magazines

May 11 2012

PASS WITH Flying Colours…staff at the Yorkshire Premier Airport Lounge, Leeds Bradford Airport, are celebrating winning an award for their friendly service, customer interaction and helpful product knowledge after they won the 'Best Staff' category of the Priority Pass Lounge of the Year Awards, decided by the members of Priority Pass. Pictured is Sophie Brown (left) from LBA presenting the award to Kayleigh Beardow and Calum Burrows from Yorkshire Premier Lounge. Meanwhile, the airport is celebrating the introduction of flights to Sharm el Sheikh from November 8 with Thomson Airways and is giving away Sharm el Sheikh cuddly camels to agents across the region.

Luton identifies opportunities for growth THIS YEAR has seen the announcement of a further seven new flights from Luton Airport, bringing the total number of destinations available at the airport to more than 100 across three continents. The new flights are to Rome with Monarch; Ljubljana in Slovenia with Adria Airways; Keflavik in Iceland, Heraklion and Corfu with easyJet; Alghero in Sardinia with Ryanair; and Hungary with Wizz Air, which launches on June 18. The airport is currently undergoing improvements to the central terminal area, drop-off zone and short term car park in order to improve flow and capacity. Additional passenger security lanes have also been introduced in the terminal to increase efficiency of security at peak times. With long term growth in mind, London Luton Airport Operations Limited, the operator of the airport, has carried out a detailed study of opportunities for growth, which have been used for creating a sustainable plan to make Luton better and bigger. These include the phased development of Luton over the next 15 years to facilitate growth in passenger numbers and airline demand; growing the number of passengers from nearly 10million to 15-16million per year over the next 15 years; and turning Luton into 'London’s Local Airport' through continual improvement of transport links with the capital, caring for the local environment and community we live in and providing sustainable jobs locally. The three main components of the proposed initial development phase would include improvements to the terminal building through the construction of a new pier and a new layout which can be achieved through extension works that won’t disrupt the running of the airport; extending the taxiway to increase the number of aircraft movements, creating new aircraft stands, and upgrading existing ones; and constructing two new traffic lanes to the south of 'Airport Way', leading into a newly created set down system in the central terminal area, which will ease congestion and manage growth in the future. If approved, work on the initial development phase could start as early as next year or 2014.

puzzlesolutions Crossword: Across: 1. LUXAIR, 4. ETNA, 8. ANATOLIAN, 9. MAN, 10. BOTSWANA, 14. KHARTOUM, 17. TPA, 18. MARRAKECH, 19. ALBI, 20. GLORIA. Down: 1. LEE MACK, 2. XIAN, 3. IDAHO, 5. TAIWAN, 6. AVN, 7. ROSS, 11. TSO, 12. ARCADIA, 13. ZAGREB, 15. TOAD, 16. UTELL, 17. THOR, 18. MEA.

Highlighted Word: RIGA Travagrams: (top) Hebridean Island Cruises

(bottom) Miami

Where Am I?: Waterford

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