Travel Bulletin 19th April 2013

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April 19 2013 | ISSUE NO 1,822 | www.travelbulletin.co.uk

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April 19 2013 | ISSUE NO 1,822 | www.travelbulletin.co.uk

Egypt Operators see booking growth following renewed confidence

this week

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agent bulletin what's in store for Taurus this month?

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ask renato dealing with clients with disabilities need not be difficult

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NEW! interview bulletin Bogdan Becla from the Polish National Tourist Office advises agents on how to sell the destination

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accommodation-only festival fans fuel increase in European hotel bookings

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This Week news 3

safety and security revealed as top concern for business travel buyers

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agent bulletin what's in store for Taurus this month?

Cover Pictures: Main - Discover Egypt

Inset - Deep Blue Apartments

puzzle bulletin

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win a £50 Love2Shop voucher courtesy of Jet2holidays by completing the crossword

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airline bulletin

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ask renato

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personality bulletin

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a round-up of new flight routes, codeshare agreements & aircraft upgrades agony uncle, Renato Fantoni, says that dealing with clients with disabilities need not be difficult which marketing manager says she can sleep almost anywhere - even standing up!

interview bulletin Bogdan Becla from the Polish National Tourist Office in the UK advises agents what they should be highlighting to clients

accommodation-only festival fans fuel increase in European hotel bookings

usa driving tips for clients plus a round-up of new tours & programme additions

egypt Red Sea returns to Hayes & Jarvis’ top ten destinations

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MONUMENT MOMENT...Singapore Airlines, along with SilkAir, Meritus Hotels, Vidotour and the Singapore Tourist Board jointly hosted a week-long fam trip for agents to Cambodia with a stopover in Singapore recently. The trip was organised to raise awareness of the rich cultural heritage of Cambodia and the itinerary took in Angkor Wat and the Killing Fields outside Phnom Penh. Pictured at the historic Angkor Wat monument are, from the left: Simon Travis, Lotus Travel; Bev Thomas, Kuoni Travel Limited; Duncan Ivett, Singapore Airlines; Bina Patel, Trailfinders; Helen Warnes, Travel 2; Lorna Allen, Meritus Hotels & Resorts; Melanie Bourne, Flight Centre; Camilla Bassett, Premier Holidays; David Duncan, Thomas Cook; and Emma Mitchell, Tui.

Safety and security revealed as top concern for business travel buyers THE IMPORTANCE of safety and security within global travel topped the bill of considerations addressed by business travel buyers according to new research from the ATPI Group. Some 54% of respondents ranked safety and security as the most important factor when planning a global travel programme, compared to 30% who rated cost savings as most significant.

The research also showed that travel management services, such as out of hours support, 365 days a year, are essential in order to deliver duty of care requirements such as safety and security. More than a third of respondents outlined that round the clock emergency support is "very important" to their business.

The company's chief operation officer for Europe & the US Peter Muller said: “With companies increasingly conducting business in a global operating environment, safety and security is moving more and more to the forefront. Many people travelling for work need to make use of routes outside of the mainstream, often to hostile and remote destinations. Geopolitical uncertainty is a factor of doing business in a world of changing and emerging economies. The message from business travel buyers is that they are clearly very aware of this, with safety and security measures considered ahead of other pressures, such as cost saving.”

Respondents were also asked to detail their biggest concerns for doing business in 2013, with safety and security coming in second as an overall factor, behind reducing costs.

Quarter of British holidaymakers actively exercise during trip NEW RESEARCH from www.sunshine.co.uk has revealed that more than a quarter of Brits actively choose to exercise whilst on holiday and swimming is the number one choice of holiday workout.

Some 1,862 UK adults took part in the survey, each of whom had been abroad on holiday in the past 12 months. When asked, ‘Did you actively choose to exercise on your last holiday abroad?’

26% answered ‘yes’. These same respondents were asked if they normally exercised whilst at home, to which the majority, 62%, said ‘no’. When all were asked why they had exercised on holiday,

the answers were as follows: ● Good fitness facilities at accommodation (55%), ● To balance out excessive holiday eating (39%), ● To keep fit (21%) and help me to relax (16%).

The company asked those who said they’d exercised on their last holiday abroad which kinds of fitness activities they had chosen to take part in. The most popular holiday exercise activities were swimming, followed by running on the beach, the gym, an exercise class and yoga.

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newsbulletin Hurtigruten extends loyalty scheme option to friends & family to mark 120th birthday HURTIGRUTEN REPORTS that its loyalty scheme continues to go from strength to strength with more than 42,500 members worldwide.

To celebrate its 120th birthday this year, the operator is offering its loyalty members the opportunity to give a 5% discount on all its voyages to up to four family members or friends.

The offer applies to all new bookings made before its

birthday on July 2, against any trips in Norway, Spitsbergen, Greenland, Antarctica and the rest of Europe, with at least three consecutive nights on board.

The scheme is inclusive of the trade and members can book through agents and still enjoy the same level of benefits.

For more information call 020-8846 2666 or see www.hurtigruten.co.uk/agents

Avalon Waterways launches 2014 European preview brochure

TAKING STOCK...David Stock (right) from Tickets Travel in Maidstone is pictured winning a Kindle HD Fire at one of BEST's (Better Escorted Tours) roadshow events recently.

Pictured presenting David with his prize is BEST chairman and 1STS director of sales, Paul Melinis.

AVALON WATERWAYS has launched its 2014 European River Cruise Preview Brochure with a range of early booking offers, as well as announcing three new Suite Ships due for delivery in the spring of 2014.

Clients booking before May 22 can save up to £1,400 per couple, while bookings made before June 30 can save up to £1,200 per couple and those booking by September 30 can save £600 per couple.

The new Avalon ‘Suite Ships’, the Avalon Poetry II, Illumination and Impression will offer the same spacious suites and focus on service as their sister ships, and by 2014, the company will offer eight Suite Ships all featuring two full decks of Panorama suites with wall-to-wall panoramic windows that open to create unique ‘open air balconies’, upgrades and enhancements throughout.

The new preview brochure features ten of the operator's most popular river cruise itineraries on the Rhine Danube, Main, Rhone and Dutch Waterways.

The choice includes the Romantic Rhine (eight days from £1,255 per person), A Taste of the Danube (eight days from £1,109), Capitals of Central Europe (ten days from £1,665) and Burgundy & Provence (11 days from £,1909). Ten other nonbrochured 2014 cruises are available to book via the website including Paris to Normandy Beaches (eight days from £1,135), Rhine & Moselle (13 days from £2,605), Grand France (16 days from £2,855) and Upper Rhine to the City of Music (12 days from £2,490).

The operator's European 2014 brochure with the full range of cruises will launch on May 23, while its worldwide products to include Mississippi, Mekong, Yangtze, Nile, Amazon and the Galapagos Islands will be launched at around the same time in a separate brochure.

For details call 0800-668 1801.

VisitEngland teams with Wallace & Gromit to launch ‘Great Adventure’ campaign VISITENGLAND HAS recruited Wallace & Gromit as Tourism Trailblazers to inspire Britons to take a holiday at home this year.

The intrepid duo have pledged to make 2013 the year they take their well-earned holidays here in the UK, and to kick start the holiday season are starring in a much anticipated television advertisement due to air on May 12.

The £4m integrated campaign, led by VisitEngland, and supported by the home nation tourist boards of Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, will see Wallace and Gromit take to the road exploring the country and discovering the best of the UK. The Government funded campaign, ‘Great Adventure’, aims to inspire Britons to book a holiday through their local travel agent and the tourist board is working with a number of High Street agents and operators who are putting together a range of British holiday packages.

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newsbulletin Tweets of the Week Who’s saying what on Twitter... @AmericanAir We’re adding 9 new routes from @LAX_Official, for a total of 50+ destinations across the globe! Learn more here: http://bit.ly/MoreLAX @STATravel_UK Save 20% on your Malaysia adventure holiday, including our 10day Borneo Sabah Adventure! http://sta.travel/ZhR1q0 @BourneLeisure Haven Agent Educationals for just £49 per caravan for 4 night breaks in a 3 Bedroom Deluxe! https://www.bourneleisure sales.co.uk/training/ educationals/index.aspx … @GoToSouthAfrica Ever heard of the Vinehopper? It's the best way to experience Stellenbosch's #wine route. http://tinyurl.com/cqm7qnp @Discoveregypt 29April 7nts Nile Cruise 5* Full board + 4nts Hurghada 4* All Inclusive £899pp Gatwick flights, transfer and luggage inc.

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GOAL-CHESTER...Staff from AITO Agent member, Colchester Travel, held a cake sale for clients and managed to raise more than £60 on World Water Day last month as part of the AITO Specialist Travel Agents’ campaign to raise £20,000 over six months in aid of Just a Drop. The funds will enable three villages in Uganda to be provided with boreholes, supporting and improving the lives of more than 6,000 people.

Pictured are, from the left: the agency's Sharon Penszor, Paul Bennett and Fiona Coburn.

New promotion from Budget offers clients Fiat 500 from £12 a day BUDGET HAS launched a promotion allowing customers to hire a Fiat 500 from £12 a day until April 30.

Features of the car include a sunroof, cloth interior, MP3 compatible radio and CD player.

The car is available to hire from locations across the UK including Euston Station, Heathrow, Leeds city centre, Liverpool city centre, Manchester city centre, Newcastle city centre and Edinburgh Airport.

Customers who take advantage of the offer will also get the chance to win an iPad Mini by entering their details online.

For further information call 0845-544 3470 or visit www.budget.co.uk/Fiat_500

Free child places for early bookers from Carrier CARRIER HAS launched its Luxury Family Escapes brochure for 2013 with a selection of exclusive offers and savings, plus guaranteed free child places to 60 hotels if booked before April 30.

The company has hand-picked a selection of hotels for families, with each offering dedicated facilities including children’s clubs, kids-only spas and unique experiences where children can try their hand at being a chef, a ranger or marine biologist.

As an example of prices, a seven-night stay in an Ocean Suite at The Cove Atlantis, Paradise Island in the Bahamas costs from £6,900 per family (two adults and two children), with kids staying free, saving up to £1,080. It includes flights from Heathrow with BA, private transfers, plus a free Atlantis Kids Experience pass worth more than $350 per stay including daily admission to teenage club CRUSH, two Atlantis Kids Adventure sessions, an Earth & Fire pottery session, complimentary ice-creams, pizzas and complimentary movie and popcorn at the Atlantis theatre.

To book or for details visit www.carrier.co.uk/family

GRJ launches eight new tours in 2013/14 Winter, Christmas & Spring brochure GREAT RAIL Journeys has launched its new Winter, Christmas & Spring brochure for 2013/2014 with early booking discounts of up to £50 per person.

The brochure showcases 66 escorted tours across the UK and Europe as well as Canada, the US and Morocco, and features a total of eight new tours. All tours include return rail travel and flights if necessary; three-, four- and five-star hotels in prime locations; many meals; plus itineraries with excursions and a tour manager throughout.

The eight new tours include The Northern Lights & Lapland, Christmas or Hogmanay at the Castle, The Harrogate Flower Show, Andalucia in Spring, Lille and Brussels' Christmas Markets, Armistice Commemorations in Lille, Remembrance Day in Flanders and Highlands All-Inclusive. As an example of

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prices, an 11-day Northern Lights & Lapland seeks out the Northern Lights and travels on some of Scandinavia's most scenic railways, taking in the Lofoten Islands. Prices lead in at £2,295 per person including scheduled flights, rail and coach travel, ten nights' hotel accommodation with breakfast and six dinners, a rail journey on the Dovre Railway to Trondheim, a rail journey on the Nordland Railway to Bodø, a Hurtigruten cruise to the Lofoten Islands, a Northern Lights photo safari, a Viking feast, a journey on the Ofoten Railway to Kiruna, a guided tour of the Ice Hotel, a Sami Experience, transfers in Scandinavia, flight taxes and charges. The price is based on February 14, 28 and March 7 departures.

For bookings or further information call 01904-521980 or visit www.greatrail.com

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newsbulletin Savings of up to 40% on Croatia breaks with Prestige Holidays PRESTIGE HOLIDAYS is featuring a range of offers on spring breaks to Croatia with savings of up to £190 per person (40%) on a seven-night Dalmatian Highlights cruise, which departs on May 19.

Starting and ending in Dubrovnik, the cruise visits the Dalmatian Islands including Mljet, Hvar, Split and Korcula. A week’s break departing from Birmingham costs from £642 per person including flights, transfers and accommodation on board with breakfast and lunch. Other options include an

Travel Network Group's conference in Lake Bled shaping up well 'SHAPING YOUR Future' is the theme at the centre of all activities at The Travel Network Group's Conference to be held from May 17-19 in Lake Bled, Slovenia.

Presentations will include a strategic update and market outlook by The Travel Network Group's senior management team and talks from a number of external speakers, including ex John Lewis customer service guru, Andrew McMillan, and businessman and philanthropist Billy Gammon.

Andy Cohen of the CAA and Damon Wright of MacIntyre Hudson will address ATOL reform, TOMS, Flight Plus and the changes to the Package Travel Directive, to ensure that delegates are fully aware of the changes the industry is undergoing in the future. Simon Ferguson of Travelport will be talking about how delegates can take advantage of new technologies.

Delegates will also hear from members who have put in place highly successful innovations to shape their future in their businesses.

escorted Grand Tour of Croatia, with savings of up to £106 per person for a May 5 departure; a 25% saving (£98 per person) on stays before April 23 at the Dubrovnik Palace Hotel, a five-star property set on the shore of the Lapad Peninsula; and savings of £164 per person (40%) on a sevennight Adriatic Paradise cruise when departing on May 4 or 12.

For more information call 01425-480400 or visit www.prestigeholidays.co.uk

The River Cruise Line teams up with TUI to offer dedicated programme THE RIVER Cruise Line has announced the promotion of a dedicated programme of itineraries for 2013 with TUI. The partnership will see a bespoke over-branded brochure of river cruises available for the first time through the First Choice, Thomson and Cruise Deals brands.

The brochure showcases popular itineraries on the Dutch Waterways and the Rhine on two of the operator’s exclusively-chartered vessels, the MPS Amsterdam and the four-star MS Switzerland II. Also available are a number of cruises on other carefully selected ships to destinations including the Baltic coast, the Elbe and the Danube.

Prices start from £329 for a four-day ‘Amsterdam and Bulbfields Spectacular’ itinerary on MPS Amsterdam.

For more information call 0844-544 7580 or visit www.sellingrivercruises.com

Kuoni highlights wildlife holidays in latest dedicated campaign

A SLICE OF THE ACTION...Leeds Bradford Airport’s (LBA) sales team, Emma Holliday and James Broughton joined Monarch cabin crew Sarah Blackshaw (left) and Jackie Wilson (right) to celebrate the launch of Monarch’s summer 2013 programme.

LBA greeted passengers with a Champagne and cake reception to mark the airline's first flight to Tenerife on the carrier's new A320 aircraft based at Leeds Bradford.

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KUONI HAS launched its first campaign dedicated to wildlife. With a handpicked selection of itineraries around the globe, the campaign is designed for wildlife enthusiasts and explorers who want to uncover their David Attenborough personas.

It features wildlife holidays in the Indian Ocean, India, Canada, Latin America, Antarctica and Africa. Customers can swim with manta rays in the clear waters of the Indian Ocean, brave the Canadian wilderness to spot grizzly bears or journey to Antarctica to witness penguins, whales and sea lions surviving in the extreme conditions.

The operator has also included a selection of volunteering holidays from

its sustainable Ananea programme, such as assisting biologists to spot, catch, weigh and measure animals on the Earthwatch Amazon Riverboat exploration, or go behind the scenes on the Born Free Shamwari experience to support the charity in its daily challenges to save the planet’s most endangered animals.

As an example of prices, a Bear & Wildlife Watching holiday at Great Bear Lodge, Port Hardy in Canada leads in at £1,199 per person for two nights in a floating eco-lodge on full board.

The price is based on two sharing and applies to July departures. Flights are not included.

For more information see www.kuoni.co.uk

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Marmaris Turkish Culture and Tourism OfďŹ ce Tel: 020 7839 7778 | www.gototurkey.co.uk

www.goturkey.com

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JET2.COM IS to launch twice weekly services to Prague and Budapest from East Midlands Airport from November 7 and 8 respectively. Flights to Budapest cost from £38 per person and to Prague from £37.

Jet2holidays’ package city breaks are available from £159 per person for three nights' breakfast accommodation.

ALL LEISURE Group has announced that it will be joining ACE (the Association of Cruise Experts) to help strengthen relationships with the trade through the company’s three cruise brands. Detailed information for agents about Hebridean Island Cruises, Voyages of Discovery and Swan Hellenic will be available via ACE, including weekly news updates, information about the latest trade incentives and detailed product briefings.

TAILOR MADE Cruise Holidays has launched an initiative with Disney Cruise Line and is offering a free cabin upgrade on all Disney Cruise Line Mediterranean Cruises booked before June 30.

SPECIALIST MOROCCO has joined the Portfolio of Specialist Tour Operators to further develop retail trade business for its programme of private and small group tours to Morocco, including Discovery Tours, Trekking Tours in the foothills of the Atlas Mountains and an exclusive Atlantic Morocco Tour.

For details email tradesupport@postoagentsonly.com BUTLINS HAS launched a new agent booking engine for agents. The new site offers simpler booking processes and the ability to add extras and earn more commission.

The cost of a break will now be shown before the guest details are entered into the system making it easy for agents to quickly provide customers with quotes. Agents are also able to amend booking details at any stage using the ‘your breaks summary’ function, a new addition to the new booking engine.

HOLIDAY AUTOS has teamed up with the recently launched low-cost, all-inclusive airline JetXtra, to support the airline's service with a live booking solution for car hire on its website.

Savings of up to £300 on India safari break from Cox & Kings COX & Kings is offering savings of up to £300 per person when staying more than six nights in a Taj Safari lodge. An 11-day /eight-night India safari holiday now leads in at £3,445 per person including Virgin Atlantic flights from Heathrow, private transfers, breakfast accommodation in Delhi and three nights’ full board with twice-daily safari drives at the lodges in Bandhavgarh and Kanha national parks.

The offer is based on two adults travelling together on a twin share basis and is valid on all new bookings made before May 10 for travel before June 30.

The four parks have healthy tiger populations and are home to a variety of other mammals including leopards, Indian bison, hyenas and wild dogs, plus more than 150 bird species.

For details call 020-7873 5000 or see www.coxandkings.co.uk

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JO'S JOY...Jo Plummer from Tropic Breeze won an award for logging the most number of bookings on Saint Lucia Tourist Board's training website at www.saintluciaexpert.com. Jo is pictured collecting her award at the tourist board's 20th annual awards evening from Dr. Ernest Hilaire, high commissioner for Saint Lucia.

Go

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WEBSCLUSIVES ●

Two great prizes to be won with the Canadian Tourism Commission: a) Win a fantastic lobster dinner for 4, delivered direct to your door! b) Entrants are also encouraged to complete the Canada Specialist training module for the further chance to win a £50 Amazon Gift Voucher.

Go to: www.travelbulletin.co.uk/competitions

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Travel Bulletin now hosts some of the trade’s most educational - yet fun - agent events. To view video footage from our most recent showcases, go to www.youtube.com/travelbulletin

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

All this and more at:

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

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agentbulletin Booking incentives ● AGENTS CAN win £250 in vouchers with Travel 2 as part of its ‘Australia. It’s Time To Go Back’ campaign. In conjunction with Tourism Australia, AAT Kings, maui/Britz, Avis and Great Southern Rail, the new campaign highlights off-thebeaten-track itineraries. To encourage second time holidaymakers, the operator is giving four agents the chance to win prizes of £250 in shopping vouchers. To be entered into the prize draw agents must make a new booking by May 31 that includes a minimum of five nights’ ground arrangements. If the booking includes an AAT Kings, maui/Britz, Avis or Great Southern Rail product, agents will receive two entries into the draw. See www.travel2.com ●

AGENTS CAN get their hands on £250 in cash when they book a cruise with Swan Hellenic or Voyages of Discovery before May 31. The trade incentive coincides with the launch of the two cruise lines’ new 2014/15 brochures. To be in with a chance of winning, agents must confirm a new booking from the new brochures. Voyages of Discovery (www.voyagesofdiscovery.com) is sailing to 19 new ports of call across ten countries, including a full circumnavigation of the African continent, as part of the new summer 2014 and winter 2014/15 cruise programmes, and Swan Hellenic (www.swanhellenic.com), which celebrates its diamond anniversary in 2014, has also launched cruises up until January 2015 to destinations including the Baltic, Black Sea, Adriatic, Mediterranean, India and the Far East. The winner will be picked randomly from All Leisure Groups’ system in early June 2013, once the early booking offers have ended, and will be notified shortly afterwards.

Agent offer NORWEGIAN CRUISE Line has announced the details of its ‘Engage & Reward’ programm e for agents attending the launch of its latest ship, Nor wegian Breakaway, in Southampton on April 29. The pro gramme will focus on educating agents in various asp ects of the ship, while rewarding them with increment al bonus commission for their attendance and participatio n. When agents arrive at the inaugural in Southampton and check in, they will be given a unique barcode which can be used in key locations around the ship. At eac h location there will be a presentation or walk through about a specific feature of the ship and by visiting these key locations agents can earn their company up to 4% bonus commission in total. Agents will also have the opportunity to meet with representatives from tourist org anisations from the key cruise destinations as they move through check-in and embarkation at Southampton. Des tinations include Alaska, Seattle, Miami, Clearwate r Beach, Barcelona, Malaga and Palma. Any bonus commission secured by attending agents can be earned on all new bookings made between May 15 and Jun e 14 for sailings between May 15 and December 31.

For details on Norwegian Breaka way see www.breakaway.ncl.co.uk and for more information and updates, agents can visit the new Partners First webpage at www.ncl.co.uk/agen ts/partnersfirst/index.html

It’s in the stars…

What’s in store for Taurus?

YOU ARE very influential at present so try to capitalise on this - whether that means talking your way into a welldeserved pay rise at work to convincing your other half to change your living room decor. Increased confidence means that you can be more spontaneous this month, which also presents an opportunity for you to learn a new skill or try something you wouldn't normally do.

Lucky day: Friday Lucky number: 24

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PICTURE PERFECT...Travel 2 presented Tanya Goodall of Robins World Travel with a top of the range SLR camera as one of the five winners of its South Africa incentive. Pictured with Tanya is the operator's Andy Harris.

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newsbulletin Head down under to the Ashes with Austravel over Xmas and New Year AUSTRAVEL IS offering a variety of Ashes packages, in association with Gullivers Sports Travel, to combine the cricket series with a holiday down under.

Alistair Cook and his team will head to Brisbane in November for the first of five tests taking place over the Christmas and New Year period, and the operator is running city packages which tie in with each of the Tests and can be linked together to create a tailor-made itinerary. The operator has a number of flexible options available, combining accommodation and the Test ticket.

As an example, guests can opt for a New Years Eve break in Sydney watching the fireworks over the Harbour Bridge before taking in the fifth and final Ashes Test at Sydney Cricket Ground. The nine-day holiday costs from £2,589 per person and includes scheduled flights from Heathrow with Malaysia Airlines, eight nights' accommodation at the fourstar Citigate Central Hotel and a five-day Bronze ticket for the Sydney Test starting on January 3. The price is based on a December 29 departure.

For more information call 0800-988 4834 or visit www.austravel.com

TENERIFE TAKE-OFF...Pictured marking the launch of British Airways' flights to Tenerife from Gatwick, which operates five times weekly and offers new “hand baggage only” fares are, from the left: Ricardo Melchior, president of the Council of Tenerife; Lucie Wesley, BA; and Miguel Ángel Santos, Tenerife Tourism Corporation.

Jon Baines adds tours to Chengdu following BA's direct flights BRITISH AIRWAYS is launching direct flights from London to Chengdu in September, and Jon Baines Tours has added two cultural tours to the region that both take in the ancient city of Chengdu and allow visitors to learn more about its history, culture and people.

The Trail of the Tea Horse (from September 12-29) travels from Chengdu on a journey to Tibet and Everest Base Camp on the Trail of the Tea Horse, via the ancient trading towns of Dali, Lijiang and Zhongdian.

Highlights include visiting Tiger Leaping Gorge, where the Yangtze River forces its way between jagged

mountain peaks; a visit to the sacred lake of Yamdrok-tso in Tibet; and spending two days in Lhasa, the spiritual heart of Tibet.

Prices lead in at £3,880 including flights, meals, accommodation and a tour guide.

A Journey Along the Yangtze tour option, from October 11-27, has also been added. In Chengdu, guests can explore the spice and art markets, enjoy a hot pot (a special lunch), and visit Wushan monastery, the Dazu Grottos, the panda breeding programme and the giant man of Leshan.

The tour is led by The School of

Oriental and African Studies (SOAS) professor Hugh Baker, who provides commentaries throughout.

Highlights of the tour include visiting Shanghai and learning about its colourful past; visiting the famous gardens and silk workshops of 2,000-year old Suzhou, watching contemporary designers working with ancient techniques; and taking a four-night cruise along the Yangtze River.

The ground-only cost of the tour is £2,940, excluding flights, visas and transfers.

For more information see http://jonbainestours.co.uk

Travel Indochina highlights newly added 13-day Chinese culinary tour TRAVEL INDOCHINA has announced a new 13-day gastronomy tour of China that explores the destination's cuisine in a number of ways, from back street food tasting tours to hands-on cooking lessons in special locations.

Travelling through Beijing, Xian, Chengdu and Shanghai, customers will discover China’s cultural offerings and iconic attractions, including the Great Wall of China, the Terracotta Warriors and Giant Pandas.

Along the way, the tour offers a selection of special ‘Insider Experiences’ designed to bring the gastronomy of China to life. These include three hands-on cooking lessons at a typical hutong house in Beijing, a local home in Chengdu, and the former French Concession area of Shanghai; two carefully-designed food tours through the back streets of Beijing and Xian; as well as the chance to try the famous Peking Duck at one of the most popular roast duck restaurants in Beijing’s hutongs.

Prices lead in at £2,365 per person and include 12

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nights’ accommodation, three domestic flights, all road transport in air-conditioned vehicles, sightseeing and entrance fees, a tour leader (based on a minimum of seven travellers) and local English-speaking guides throughout, airport transfers, and some meals.

International flights and visas are not included but can be arranged at an additional cost.

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puzzlebulletin Travagrams

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

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

Number: 108

Flash Tuna

A➠

B➠

This German airline’s name derives from two Sanskrit words meaning ‘disappearing crane’ (bird).

C➠

A Sir Us

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

Once you have completed the puzzle, simply identify the numbers that relate to the letters, A, B, C and D then e-mail the solution, with your name, company name, and full postal address plus phone and ABTA number if applicable to: competition@travelbulletin.co.uk Closing date for entries is Thursday, April 25th. Solution and new puzzle will appear next week.

The winner for 5th April is Su Dillon, Travel Counsellors in Thorngumbald.

April 5 Solution: A=9 B=2 C=5 D=8

Crossword

Sponsored By

143 million people in a hurry

Where Am I?

Mount Columbia is the highest point of this Canadian Province.

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

Closing date for entries is Thursday April 25th.

Down Across 1. Popular European city break destination (6) 1. If you went on a Jet2holidays Discovery Weekend Break to St. Petersburg which airport would you 2. Airline operating out of Warsaw (3) arrive at? (7) 3. Tom and Morgan star in this futuristic movie at 4. Australian state, in short (3) cinema near you (8) 6. Association of Independent Tour Operators, initially (4) 4. Family-friendly P&O cruise ship (7) 7. Themed restaurant chain, ___ Hollywood (6) 5. Andrew Lloyd Webber's musical, currently touring the UK (4) 9. Abu Dhabi is the capital (3) 8. Lake on the border of Peru and Bolivia (8) 11. Lausanne is the capital of this canton (4) 10. Quito is the capital (7) 12. Hayes & Jarvis is part of this travel group (3) 13. First name of celebrity fashion designer, sounds 14. Highest mountain in Japan (4) like a well-known lager (6) 15. Britain's Got Talent co-host (3) 16. Comedian Harry, famous for his big collars and 17. Sri Lanka is located in this ocean (6) glasses (4) 18. The national carrier of Israel (2,2) 19. Luton airport code (3) 20. London Heathrow airport code (3) 21. State capital of Georgia (7)

Number: 108

Congratulations to Susan Shaw, Travel Experience who won the 5th April crossword prize of £50 Love2Shop vouchers

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

The Where Am I and Travagrams solutions can be found on page 28 April 19 2013

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airlinebulletin Air Canada to introduce International Premium Economy cabin on new fleet AIR CANADA is to introduce a new International Premium Economy cabin for customers seeking enhanced comfort and service on international flights as it continues to modernise its widebody fleet with the addition of five new Boeing 777-300ER aircraft.

Complementing its Economy and Executive First options on international flights, the airline's new Premium Economy cabin will offer customers a range of benefits including a dedicated cabin featuring larger seats that are wider, providing more recline, with seven more inches of legroom than Economy. Customers will also be offered premium meals with complimentary bar service and priority check-in and baggage delivery at the airport.

The new cabin will be introduced on the carrier's Montreal-Paris flights effective from July 11. Additional routes offering Premium Economy will be added over time as new aircraft enter the carrier’s mainline fleet.

For more information visit www.aircanada.com/premiumeconomy

InBrief ● GAMBIA BIRD has introduced a new corporate air travel programme

to provide corporate travel services, preferential fares and other benefits for corporations, organisations, professionals, executives and frequent flyers. For details email corporate@gambiabird.com or see www.gambiabird.com ● LATAM AIRLINES Group has chosen oneworld to be its global alliance

for all its airlines. With this decision, TAM Airlines is now a member of oneworld, joining LAN Airlines and 11 other member airlines. ● FLYBE HAS launched its summer schedule that offers a total of up to

3,031 flights a week on 148 routes. These include five which are new, namely Exeter and Southampton to Barcelona, Birmingham to Lyon, Glasgow to Shannon, and Manchester to Waterford. In addition, there are returning services between Southampton and the Isle of Man, and Exeter to Nice plus extra frequency on seven popular sea and sun destinations from Exeter, Manchester, Cardiff and Southampton. For details see www.flybe.com ● KLM HAS launched a new twice daily route from Manston Airport in

Kent to Amsterdam Schiphol. Passengers will be carried in a Fokker 70 aircraft, which seats up to 80 travellers. Flights lead in at £79 return including taxes. For details see klm.com ● ETHIOPIAN AIRLINES has entered into a codeshare partnership with

Oman Air on the Addis Ababa and Muscat sectors, which will offer greater choice for customers of the two airlines. The codeshare agreement will cover flights between the Ethiopian capital of Addis Ababa and the Omani capital of Muscat. The service will be operated using Ethiopian Airlines’ aircraft and will build on the airline’s four flights per week service between the two cities. ● JET2.COM HAS announced it will launch a direct new route from East

Midlands to Budapest from November 8. ● THOMSON AIRWAYS has introduced extra legroom seats on its 757

BMI REGIONAL is launching several new airline routes this summer offering greater choice and flexibility for travel into Europe from UK regional hubs. Amongst the options launching are routes to Gothenburg, Lyon and Toulouse from Birmingham which launch on May 13. Also launching on the same date are flights to Munich, Milan and Hannover from Bristol. In June the airline will then commence daily flights (excluding Saturdays) to Billund, Denmark from Birmingham. Prices start from £59 one-way including 20kg of hold luggage and complimentary in-flight catering.

Lufthansa increases capacity on Aberdeen service LUFTHANSA HAS boosted UK services with a double-digit increase in capacity on the Aberdeen to Frankfurt route and the start of two new services to Glasgow and Cardiff.

The increase in capacity between Aberdeen and Frankfurt is the result of introducing the larger B737500 aircraft with 114 seats to replace the 70-seat CR7, which has been operating the route.

A seasonal service to Cardiff will operate every Saturday between May 4 and October 5, while the airline is expanding its long-haul services by introducing a new route from Munich to Vancouver on the west coast of Canada to complement its existing service from Frankfurt. The new route launches on May 16 and will be served daily with an Airbus A330.

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aircraft this summer. Available from May 1 on a range of short and mid-haul routes, the extra leg room seats offer between 33 and 34 inches of legroom.

Norwegian to launch new LGW routes NORWEGIAN AIR Shuttle is establishing a UK base at Gatwick and is set to launch 12 new short haul routes this month.

Basing three aircraft at the airport will also enable the carrier to offer more frequent services, as well as tap into the London market and Gatwick’s wide catchment area.

The new routes, which include many of Europe’s major holiday hotspots, offer passengers more choice in terms of flight times and prices to popular destinations including the Canary Islands, Spain, the Balearic Islands, Italy, Croatia, Portugal and France.The airline has also increased the volume of its daily flights to key Scandinavian business destinations.

Critically, flights to Stockholm in Sweden and Oslo in Norway - key trading partners of the UK - now offer more choice in the first morning wave when business passengers prefer to travel.

The carrier is also now offering free in-flight Wi-fi on flights within Europe as well as video on demand.

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MOVERS ● GARY MCINTYRE has joined Funway Holidays as sales

development executive.

EXTRAS has appointed Louise Bates as partnerships development manager for the north.

ALL LEISURE Group has appointed Julie Franklin as group national account manager for trade.

AEROMOBILE HAS appointed Kevin Rogers as CEO. AIR MALTA has appointed Maltese tenor, Joseph Calleja, as its brand ambassador.

THE LONDON Marriott Hotel County Hall has appointed Sebastian Schwietzer as director of food and beverage.

MACDONALD HOTELS & Resorts has appointed Stuart Maxwell as general manager of Macdonald Cardrona Hotel, Golf & Spa in Peebles and Eileen Newman as general manager of Macdonald Crutherland House in East Kilbride.

SILVERSEA HAS appointed Amanda Middler as regional sales manager with responsibility for Northern Ireland, Scotland and the North East of England.

JUMEIRAH GROUP has announced key appointments for its global sales office in London. Anne Jensen has been appointed director of sales for Western Europe; Kathrin Wildeshaus has taken on the role of director of global sales, corporate, UK and Ireland, & Scandinavia; and Elodie Lacroix has been announced as the director of global sales for France & Benelux.

PRINCESS CRUISES has announced that a new dedicated sales team, led by Alex White, head of sales in the UK, has come into effect.

THE TOURISM Council of Bhutan has appointed Elizabeth Abusleme as the new in-market marketing and PR manager for the UK, Europe and Latin America.

PORTSMOUTH HISTORIC Dockyard has appointed Sunny Crouch OBE as its new independent chairman.

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Croiseurope barges into canal cruising with MS La Jeanine CROISIEUROPE HAS expanded its fleet with a 12-cabin crewed hotel barge, the MS La Jeanine, which will operate on the Alsace canals and in Burgundy, offering bespoke experiences with English speaking commentaries between May and October.

The air-conditioned vessel features outward facing cabins that have windows or portholes plus private bathrooms. There is also a spacious lounge and dining room along with a fleet of bicyles for the use of the guests who are looked after by a team of five crew.

The barge will operate in Burgundy, in Alsace, from Strasbourg to Xouaxange and from Dijon, sailing a journey through the Saône-et-Loire and La Côte d'Or regions of France. The gentle cruise passes the banks of the River Saône and takes in the attractions of the Canal du Centre, linking the River Saône to the River Loire.

Cruise-only prices start from €1,551 per person (approximately £1,315) including accommodation in an outside cabin with all meals onboard, drinks with meals, entertainment, excursions, use of the bicycles and port taxes.

For further information and reservations call 020-8328 1281, email resuk@croisieurope.com or visit www.croisieurope.travel

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newsbulletin

Ask Renato...

Agony uncle, Renato Fantoni, offers advice on how to help clients with disabilities...

Dear Renato, I was called by a client who asked that given they have a disability, could they come to our shop to book a holiday. I was unsure how to answer as I don’t want to do the wrong thing – what should I do?

Mark, Daventry DEALING WITH clients with disabilities need not be difficult.

The key thing to remember is that they are people; their disability just happens to be one of many characteristics they have. They have the same holiday needs as everyone else; a nice environment, comfort, pleasant company, good food etc. What they also need is dignity and respect. The words we use are often a concern, but once you’ve leaned to use phrases like ‘Person who needs mobility assistance’ or ‘Person with special educational needs’ you’ll soon get the hang of appropriate language. If a person wants to come to see you, you should make them feel welcome and arrange an appointment.

Simple Rules: Treat everybody as you want them to treat you.

Think about the person first, not their disability.

When you interact with a disabled client, talk directly to them and not to their carer, friend or interpreter.

Ask before offering support - just because a person might have a disability, they don't necessarily want or require your help. Ask before offering assistance.

When you talk to a person with a disability, don't use terms like "dear" or talk down to them. Avoid showing pity and patronising behaviour.

Tips for interacting with people with specific disability issues: If somebody is deaf/hearing impaired, bear in mind that some people can hear to some extent, others can lip read and some prefer sign language or assistive technology. Simply ask how they prefer to communicate.

When interacting with a person who is visually impaired/blind, first introduce yourself and let them know where you are (e.g. sitting behind a desk). You can offer to help them sit but only if they want your assistance. Do not push or drag them. Avoid petting a guide dog, it is a working animal, not a pet.

If you are interacting with a client in a wheelchair, avoid pushing, leaning on, or holding it. It’s a good idea to be at eyelevel when connecting with someone in a wheelchair.

Interacting with a person with a cognitive disability may require patience. Speak in clear, simple sentences and listen to what they want to say. Do not assume you know what they want and do not guess. When interacting with someone who is speech impaired (e.g they have had a stroke) give them as much time as they need to communicate. Be respectful and try not to finish what they are saying for them.

Next time we will deal with arranging the actual holiday…

If you have a question for Renato, email him at renato@hpshotels.net April 19 2013

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personalitybulletin

Hayley Griffiths The marketing manager of TrekAmerica has the ability to sleep almost anywhere and says that APD is the ‘most ridiculous’ tax in the history of taxes...

Who is your ideal travelling companion?

David Attenborough as he’d explain all about the little things you might just walk straight past otherwise.

Plus he’d soothe me to sleep with his storytelling.

Where was your last work-related trip?

Last October I joined a TrekAmerica tour called the Wild West. Ten days through the USA’s Desert Southwest including L.A, the Grand Canyon and Las Vegas (to name a few). Our group gelled brilliantly and we still meet up to talk about our adventures at cowboy camp or braving the sweltering heat of Death Valley.

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

Mila Kunis. She’s beautiful, doesn’t take herself too seriously and even gets to play Meg in Family Guy! What three words would your friends use to describe you?

Loyal, generous & sarcastic.

What have your travels taught you?

To be patient. Timekeeping isn’t too important in some parts of the world so sometimes you just have to go with it. If something isn’t happening immediately that’s OK! What is the best advice you recall?

Listen to what others have to say before charging in with your opinion.

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

Cheese - red, blue or yellow; I love the stuff!

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"Timekeeping isn’t too important in some parts of the world so sometimes you just have to go with it. If something isn’t happening immediately that’s OK!"

Career path ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

2004-05: Virgin Atlantic - sales advisor 2005-06: Uptrips (Thomas Cook) sales advisor 2006-09: Virgin Holidays - sales advisor 2008-09: Virgin Holidays - marketing executive 2009-10: Round the world trip 2010-11: John Lewis - marketing executive 2011-12: Lloyds TSB - assistant marketing manager 2012-present: TrekAmerica - marketing manager

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

APD, APD and APD. It’s the most ridiculous tax in the history of taxes and it’s damaging the economy.

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

Joanna Waterman (ex Virgin Holidays) as she took a chance on me when I had no marketing experience. Without her and Tom

Scott agreeing to hire me I wouldn’t have made the transition from sales to marketing and I wouldn’t be where I am today.

What's your favourite city and why?

Las Vegas – it’s unashamedly loud, superbly brash and you can get anything you want 24-hours a day.

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

I’d be a freelance travel writer, living out of a backpack and covered in mud.

What is your motto in life?

Eat dessert first: Life is uncertain.

What was your nickname at school and why?

Love Puffin. Not telling why…

What item do you always take with you when travelling?

Face wipes - useful for clearing up any mess, anywhere!

What's your favourite airline and why?

Singapore Airlines. I’ve flown with them to Sydney and their Airbus A380s are stunning.

What special skill do you have?

I can sleep almost anywhere – including standing up.

What’s your favourite programme on the TV right now?

I love Come Dine With Me – it’s never about the food, but the group dynamic is like watching some kind of social experiment.

What do you love about your job?

I get to talk about travelling all day, and help people to find an experience which they’ll love and remember forever.

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interviewbulletin o t s e m o c it n e h W e h t s d a le d n la o P , s t fi bene t n o fr m s ri u o t e h t n o field Bogdan Becla

A

ORE

by PAUL SCUDAM

FTER the success of Euro 2012, Poland is reaping the benefits of massive exposure and predicting a bumper year for tourism, particularly from the UK. It also seems to be reaping the benefit of not being in the eurozone, with its zloty currency representing great value. And in a third benefit, the country is certain to see an increase in featured coverage in the consumer press following its hosting of almost 80 members of the British Guild of Travel Writers in February, when it held its annual general meeting at the Belvedere Hotel and Spa in Zakopane, preceded and followed by tours that took in several highlights of the southern Malopolska province, including the medieval city of Krakow.

As a result of this increased exposure travel agents can expect an influx of enquiries from all sectors of the public – singles, couples of all ages, families and small groups looking for one of the huge range of holidays the country can offer. These include city and country breaks, touring packages, beach stays along 500km of Baltic coastline, and active and adventure holidays, as well as those which focus on history, culture and the arts.

The country is also renowned for its place in the health and beauty sector, and features 43 specialist resorts offering the complete range of treatments. A brochure, Poland for Health and Beauty, is available from the Polish National Tourist Office in the UK, which is headed up by Bogdan Becla, who said that there was also an increasing demand in the medical sector, particularly for those seeking affordable plastic surgery and dental treatment, often combined with the relaxation of a holiday. He said: ”We are also seeing the emergence of golf and spa combination packages – not everyone realises that Poland has 23 18-hole golf courses, half of

which also feature a spa. And there are 60 historic palaces throughout the country, 25 of which have a spa.”

From the UK, the country has around 1.2million visitors each year, mostly tourists, but also a substantial amount of VFR traffic and about 10% business travel. It certainly benefits from easy access, with flights from Wizz Air, Ryanair, easyJet, LOT and British Airways, and by road with companies such as Eurolines, as well as rail options. The main city destinations are Krakow, Warsaw, Zakopane, Gdansk and Wroclaw, which is popular with the stag and hen sector.

Bogdan Becla said: ”For those who haven’t yet discovered Poland, I’d suggest agents offer a break to Krakow – it’s a tried and tested destination and a great way of getting a customer booked. It’s also just ten minutes by road from the airport, and the kind of city people return to. There’s generally no problem in bringing people to the major cities, but what I’d like to see – and this is where agents can help – is getting people to visit longer and discover what lies beyond the city they’re visiting.”

This year the tourist office is promoting activity holidays and the spa and health segment, in addition to its cities, mountains, lakes and forests, sports events, culture and heritage. In all, there are 175 UK tour operators which feature Poland, among them British Airways Holidays, Thomson, Thomas Cook, First Choice, Cosmos, Kirker Holidays, Cox & Kings, Cresta, Shearings, Ramblers, Page & Moy, Contiki and Explore Worldwide.

The tourist office is keen to support the retail trade and offers agents online training via www.specialist.poland.travel as well as telephone support on 0300-303 1812.

There is also a website at www.poland.travel ✦

"Not everyone realises that Poland has 23 18-hole golf courses, half of which also feature a spa”

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ly n o n io t a d o m accom

MALLORCA FARMHOUSES is promoting a week’s stay at Gaballi (pictured) for £993 this summer. The two-bedroom property, which sleeps four, is located in Campanet, near Pollenca old town, and is ideal for couples looking for a quiet break. The property features a private pool with furnished sun terrace, gardens, an outdoor covered dining terrace and a barbecue. The beaches of Puerto Pollenca and Cala Sant Vicenc are a 15-minute drive away.

For details see www.mallorca.co.uk or call 0845-800 8080.

YouTravel.com introduces new Italian cities and resorts to programme YOUTRAVEL.COM has announced the addition of several key cities and seaside resorts to one of its most popular year-round destinations, Italy.

The company has added more than 100 hotels in Italy, with a focus on iconic cities such as Rome, Florence and Venice, with Milan to be added shortly.

On the beach front, the operator features a wide selection in Sicily, Calabria, the Neapolitan and the Venetian Riviera.

The company has also secured a number of exclusive offers across Italy, with prices for seven nights, double occupancy in May starting from £238 at the three-star Costa Azzura in Calabria, £370 at the four-star Hotel For

You in Sardinia, £456 at the three-star Miralago Hotel in Lake Garda and £705 at the four-star Degli Aranci in Rome.

The operator's group CEO Ioannis Kent said: “Our latest Italy portfolio expansion will enable us to provide our agent partners with even more choice in one of our very popular destinations.

"Keeping in view the ever increasing number of low-cost and full service flights to Italian cities, it makes sense for us to look at the citybreak market in order to meet our partners' demands. We are the only 100% trade focused, principal status bedbank and getting our product-mix right for our trade customers is our top priority.”

YTL Hotels offers free nights at Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur YTL HOTELS has announced that guests booking five nights at the luxury resorts of Pangkor Laut Resort, Tanjong Jara Resort and Gaya Island Resort can take two complimentary nights at The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur, until the end of November.

The original heritage Hotel Majestic has been restored to its original splendour and is known as the Majestic Wing, housing suites as well as The Bar, The Colonial Café and The Tea Lounge.

As a new extension complementing the original building, the Tower Wing features the main reception, Contango restaurant, 16 meeting rooms, a pillarless ballroom seating 1,200, a gym and pool. Food and beverage

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offerings include Contango, a contemporary restaurant serving a variety of cuisine and The Colonial Café, which offers traditional fare such as Mulligatawny Soup and Hainanese Chicken Chop. The adjacent Tea Lounge is also designed in colonial style and serves light refreshments and afternoon tea.

As an example of packages, Inspired

By Asia is offering five-night stays from £1,289 per person at Tanjong Jara Resort in a Bumbung room and two nights at The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur in a Deluxe room, saving £430 per person. The offer includes flights with Malaysia Airlines, breakfast and private transfers, based on twin share accommodation.

Tanjong Jara Resort

To book call 01423-704118 or for more information on the properties visit www.ytlhotels.com

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accommodationonly Festival fans fuel increase in European bookings according to LateRooms.com LATEROOMS.COM has revealed that European hotels close to the continent’s biggest music festivals have seen booking surges in the last year of up to 1,500%.

Figures from the hotel booking specialist reveal that 2013 European festival goers are set to shun on-site camping facilities in favour of the comfort of nearby hotel rooms, and are already booking up rooms for a short break ahead of major events such as Primavera in Portugal, Optimus Alive! in Lisbon and the INMusic festival in Croatia.

The company reports that as more headline acts are announced for the European festivals, customers are increasingly reserving rooms to secure a comfortable place that is close to the action.

Previously, lesser-known locations such as Zagreb in Croatia are seeing benefits from the influx of British music fans, as they flock to the INMusic festival held there every year in June. Some 1,500% more hotel rooms in Zagreb have already been snapped up this year through the operator than at this time last year.

Hotels in Novi Sad near Exit Festival in Serbia have also seen a substantial 54% increase on last year’s bookings, as music lovers reserve rooms to relax in after seeing Bloc Party and Snoop Dogg (aka Snoop Lion) at the event in July.

Meanwhile, in Portugal, the popularity of Optimus Alive! in Lisbon has caused a big surge for the city’s hotels, with bookings for July rising by 325% in the last two years. Another Portuguese event, Primavera in Porto, will see Britpop legends Blur headline this year in June, and hotels in the Portuguese city experienced a 116% increase in bookings from around the time of the festival last year, and are expecting another big leap this year.

The Pet Shop Boys will perform for Sonar festival goers this summer, and a hotel stay in nearby Barcelona is proving popular, with 11% more rooms booked this year around the time of the music event.

The company’s offline marketing manager Lynda Matthews said: “This year is going to be extremely profitable for hotels near European festival sites, and we have already seen bookings growing at faster rates year-on-year as the popularity of these festivals increase.

“More and more of our British customers want to combine the music event with a short break to Europe and we are pleased that our vast array of European hotels can provide a room for their every need, be it to get clean, treat themselves to a gourmet meal, or just rest their head on the pillow after a day of taking in the music.”

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DE VERE Hotels has launched Chambre Unique, a new room upgrade for guests staying at selected properties. For a small supplement, guests can upgrade and benefit from Sky Movies HD on a Smart Theatre TV and Bose SoundLink bluetooth speakers. Other facilities of the upgrade include a Starbucks “Verismo” coffee machine, a selection of Newby of London Specialist Tea Infusions and ESPA toiletries. The Chambre Unique rooms are available at the Cheshire country house Mottram Hall (pictured), following a nine-month refurbishment of all 120 rooms, for an extra £30 per night on top of the normal room rate. The hotel is surrounded by 270 acres of parkland and includes a championship golf course.

For details see www.devere-hotels.co.uk

HolidayCottages.co.uk reveals South West's fastest emerging holiday destinations HOLIDAYCOTTAGES.CO.UK HAS revealed this summer's top five fastest emerging destinations within the South West, with the seaside town of Westward Ho! witnessing the greatest increase in bookings this year compared to 2012, up 32%.

Other beauty spots across the region becoming increasingly popular according to the company include Helston; the second oldest town in Cornwall is also the second fastest growing destination this summer, experiencing an increase in bookings of 24%.

Nestled in the south of Somerset and surrounded by rolling countryside, the town of Chard takes third position with bookings up 22% compared to last year, followed by the market town of Frome, with an 18% increase in bookings and the village of Berrynarbor, up 14%.

The operator's managing director James Morris said: "The South West has been a popular destination for UK holidays for many years and it's great to see these emerging destinations attracting more and more holidaymakers every year."

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accommodationonly Deep Blue Apartments announce new ‘Flying Butler Service’ for business travellers DEEP BLUE Apartments, which offers commission to agents selling stays at its properties, has launched a new VIP service, the ‘Flying Butler Service’, exclusively for guests staying at its serviced apartments in London and Greater London.

Tailored to each client’s requirements, the service includes transfers from any London airport or train station; grocery deliveries; additional housekeeping; and a dry cleaning service. It is being offered to all guests staying at the company’s apartments in London’s Blackfriars, Marylebone, Ealing and Richmond, as well as properties it owns in Basingstoke, Reading, Windsor and Wokingham.

A new welcome video for guests has also been produced to showcase to guests all the facilities within the apartments.

The company’s general manager Avril Larner said: “Our new Flying Butler Service will enhance the experience for guests arriving and checking in to our apartments and it will be especially welcomed by those that arrive after a long flight or train journey. Our properties are a wonderful alternative for those staying in London on business for a few weeks or more who want to enjoy a home from home experience in the capital.”

As examples of prices, a large studio apartment in Marylebone costs from £875 a week, while a fourbedroom penthouse in Blackfriars costs from £2,450.

For more information or to book visit www.deepblue-apartments.com

Report reveals destinations are poles apart when it comes to luxury accommodation THE LATEST Hotels.com Hotel Price Index, a report which looks at prices UK travellers paid per night last year, has found that a fivestar hotel in Warsaw cost an average of £77 per night – £320 less than in San Francisco, where travellers paid an average of £397.

Five-star accommodation in other popular luxury destinations such as New

York and Paris came in at an average of £332 and £290 per night respectively.

Several major European destinations offered competitive five-star prices in 2012, with seven European capital cities in the top ten best value cities. Budapest came second only to Warsaw for best five-star value at an average of £96 per night, while popular destination

Berlin came in seventh place with an average of £116, tied with Tallinn. Also in the top ten were Lisbon (£109), Prague (£117) and Brussels (£118). London struggled to match such great value, coming in at number 49 in the table with a five-star average of £232 per night.

The company’s Kate Hopcraft said: "UK travellers are understandably worried

about holiday costs now more than ever, but our HPI report shows that you can still have a luxury stay without exceeding your budget if you are canny in your choice of destination. Cities such as Warsaw and Budapest have so much to offer tourists, from their rich history through to stunning architecture and delectable local cuisine."

Superbreak adds five-star boutique London property to portfolio SUPERBREAK HAS added the five-star No.11 Cadogan Gardens to its portfolio of hotels in London. Built on the former cricket grounds to Buckingham Palace, the boutique hotel is located just minutes away from Sloane Street.

Behind the classic Victorian façade, No.11 Cadogan Gardens features a restaurant, cocktail bar, drawing room, library, outside terrace and state-of-the-art gym.

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The hotel offers 54 guest rooms, each with four-poster beds, decorative baroque chaise longues and Murano glass chandeliers.

Prices are from £143 per person per night including breakfast.

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

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usa

Gansevoort Las Vegas

Caesars Entertainment Corporation announces new boutique hotel set to open in early 2014 CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT Corporation has teamed up with New York-based luxury hotel brand Gansevoort Hotel Group to launch the Gansevoort Las Vegas, planned to open in early 2014 at the location of Bill’s Gamblin’ Hall & Saloon.

As the only stand-alone boutique resort, Gansevoort Las Vegas will be the fourth installment of the luxury hospitality brand following the recent success of Gansevoort Park Avenue in New York. Following a £121million renovation, Gansevoort’s iconic style will be a first for Las Vegas, creating an intimate property with 188 Parisian apartment-

Ranch Rider reports boost in bookings ACCORDING TO Ranch Rider bookings for its US ranch stays are still rivalling last year's figures, despite sterling’s recent backslide against the dollar.

The tour operator cites an upward trend for holidays offering authentic experiences.

The company's managing director Tony Daly said: “Riding out west is still pulling in the cowboys as ranch stays in this part of the world are the real McCoy. In recent weeks, sterling has started to bounce back against the dollar so that’s good news for agents selling the US, but all American ranch stays will continue to be in demand this year as they fall into a category where sales are growing.”

Activities at Wyoming’s New Haven Working Ranch vary according to the seasons, with guests participating in cattle drives, branding and sorting. Seven-night stays lead in at £995 per person, based on two sharing and include accommodation, meals, most ranch activities, taxes and gratuities. Transfers and flights are excluded but can be booked from £75 and £839 per person respectively.

For more information call 01509-618811, email info@ranchrider.com or visit www.ranchrider.com

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style guest rooms including 19 suites, designed by Tandem Las Vegas.

The property will also feature the creation of Drai’s Beach Club and Nightclub, Victor Drai’s reinvention of Las Vegas nightlife featuring a 65,000sq.ft indoor/outdoor nightclub and rooftop pool experience.

Meanwhile, the city welcomes the opening of Hakkasan Nightclub at MGM Grand this month, with Hakkasan restaurant due to open in early May. For more information see www.visitlasvegas.co.uk

Uniworld issues 2014 preview brochure TWO NEW tours feature in Uniworld's Early Booking Bonanza brochure.

A 16-day Rocky Mountain High - The Best of the American Rockies and New Mexico leads in at £2,295 per person, with departures from this month through to September 2014. The price offers a saving of up to £200 per person and the company is also offering reduced prices on single supplements.

The itinerary follows the American Rockies south from Denver to the valley of the Rio Grande and west into Arizona, taking in natural wonders such as Pike's Peak, Carlsbad Caverns and White Sands National Monument. The tour also includes visits to the historic Aztec Ruins National Monument and Old San Miguel Mission.

A 15-day Florida in Style with a cruise to the Mayan World option has also been added and costs from £1,995 per person (offering savings of up to £200 per person), with departures from November through to March next year.

The tour takes in Orlando, Kissimmee, Sarasota, Tampa (for a cruise on Holland America's MS Ryndam), Key West, Roatan Bay Island, Honduras - Santo Tomas de Castilla, Guatemala - Costa Maya and Mexico.

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usa

HAYES & Jarvis has expanded its range of accommodation in Chicago and is featuring the Trump Hotel Chicago as one of its luxury collection, with three-night packages starting from £969 per person.

Located further south along Michigan Avenue, opposite Grant Park, the three-star Chicago’s Essex Inn is the operator’s lead priced hotel, where three-night packages start from £669 per person.

US driving tips by Holiday Autos ●

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You need to be over 21 to book car hire in the US (the minimum driving age across the states in 21 years old except in New York and Michigan where it is 18 years old) Drivers under the age of 25 are subject to several restrictions when hiring a car in the US. In some states, drivers may only have access to a limited fleet including compact and intermediate cars only. Drivers under the age of 25 also have to pay an underage fee if renting a car in the US, which costs $25 per day across most of the US (except New York and Michigan). The company has included the underage fee in its Max 25 package as part of its all-inclusive products so the client doesn’t have to pay anything locally. Max 25 USA packages include unlimited mileage, CDW (Collision Damage Waiver), EP (Extended Protection) Sales Tax, Airport fees, Additional Driver charges, underage fees plus one tank of fuel.

Police are strict on car hire codes of conduct so encourage your clients to carry their driving documents with them at all times.

New York: In the main areas even-numbered streets go east and odd-numbered streets go west.

California: You can make a right turn on a red light at intersections.

Arizona: Look out for signs when driving near Native American reservations. Many roads are off limits to nontribal members.

Texas: Be careful and check before advancing at a green light – just because it’s green doesn’t mean it’s safe to proceed.

Massachusetts: Parking in a lot will always be cheaper than parking at a meter.

Nevada: Avoid driving down The Strip on a Friday afternoon – you won’t get anywhere due to congestion.

Florida: Lock your doors especially when at a red light or stuck in traffic – it’s not uncommon for someone to jump in the passenger side.

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usa New Orleans Jazz Fest announces headline acts THE NEW Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival returns for two weekends during April 26 to May 5 and features a star-studded line-up.

Headline acts for the first weekend include Billy Joel, Dave Matthews Band, John Mayer, BB King, Earth Wind and Fire, Jill Scott, George Benson, Dr John, Ben Harper and Charlie Musselwhite. Headlining the second weekend are Fleetwood Mac, Maroon 5, The Black Keys, John Oates, Daryl Hall, Phoenix, Willie Nelson, Jimmy Cliff, Little Big Town, Marc Broussard, Kem and Patti Smith.

There will be 12 stages showcasing various musical genres. Music on offer ranges from the old-time Delta bluesmen to African artists, to Bohemian street folk, top zydeco players and traditional New Orleans jazz musicians such as Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue and the Preservation Hall Jazz Band.

Zones dedicated to exploring culture, cuisine and crafts will also be available. As examples, the Culture zone will include the Louisiana Folk Life Village and the Native American Village; the culinary region will host foodie delights; while the Congo Square African Market Place, the Contemporary Crafts in Heritage Square and the Louisiana Marketplace are some of the craft venues exhibiting.

Advanced adult single day tickets for the first and second weekend cost $50 each. There are other ticket packages to choose from such as the Big Chief VIP Experience and the Grand Marshall VIP Pass. Tickets for children aged two-ten years are $5 and are available at the gate only.

Bon Voyage is highlighting five-night packages for each weekend that include flights from Heathrow or Manchester and accommodation at the Maison Dupuy in the French Quarter. The package for the first weekend is £1,635 per person and for the second is £1,675, subject to availability. Other durations, departure airports and hotels are also available.

For more information see www.bon-voyage.co.uk and www.nojazzfest.com

ATTRACTION WORLD has added a 'Las Vegas Style' Tribute Dinner Show, The Rat Pack & Friends, to its programme of activities in Orlando. Guests can dine while enjoying performances from Elvis, Frank, GaGa, Marilyn and Michael Jackson to name a few. The programme includes a four-course Italian meal with free house wine, beer and/or soft drinks. Guests will also have the chance for a meet and greet with the cast following the show, which runs on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. Prices lead in at £39 for adults and £28 for kids.

For details see www.attractionworld.com/Rat-Pack-FriendsTribute-Dinner-Show.aspx

Intrepid Travel launches gastronomy tour in New Orleans

Saxaphone player in New Orleans

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FOLLOWING THE recent announcement from New Orleans Convention & Visitors Bureau that tourism to New Orleans has bounced back to pre-Hurricane Katrina levels, with more than nine million visitors in 2012, Intrepid Travel is hoping to lure more travellers to the city to experience its new, food-focused 'New Orleans Bite-size Break'.

The four-day tour introduces travellers to New Orleans’ most authentic, affordable food experiences, as well as its cultural highlights. A melting pot of Creole, French, Spanish, Italian, African, Cajun, Chinese and Native American influences, New Orleans’ streets feature bars, cafes and restaurants which serve soul-food dishes like jambalaya, gumbo, fried green tomatoes, blackened catfish and po’ boys, as well as less traditional dishes such as alligator cheesecake.

On the short break, travellers can follow a gourmet food-trail through the French Quarter, explore the city's chequered history at a 19th century sugar plantation, taste-test fresh produce at the city's farmers' markets, learn the secrets to preparing Creole favourites at a cooking school, sip on a refreshing Sazerac or two (a local Louisiana cocktail) and dance the night away in some of the city's renowned jazz venues including Preservation Hall.

The first departure of the tour is scheduled for June 6, with further departures scheduled for selected Thursdays through to September 2014.

The tour includes hotel accommodation in the French Quarter, some meals, classes and tastings, plus a local tour leader.

For more information visit www.intrepidtravel.com/food

April 19 2013

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usa Massachusetts hosts garden at 100th RHS Chelsea Garden Show next month THE MASSACHUSETTS Office of Travel and Tourism (MOTT) has announced that it is hosting a garden at the 100th RHS Chelsea Garden Show, which takes place from May 21-25.

The Massachusetts Garden has been created by gold winning garden designer Catherine MacDonald of Landform Consultants, and London handbag designer Susannah Hunter, to create a real and leather appliqué garden in order to give a multi-dimensional effect.

The garden will also showcase an entirely leather “water” feature and dry stone wall, making it a first for the event.

MOTT will be offering a number of garden itineraries to celebrate and promote the state’s gardens to horticulture fans, with tours being offered by some of the top US specialist tour operators.

The tourist board's executive director Betsy Wall said: “We are extremely proud of the gardens and natural spaces that are present in abundance throughout the state and are delighted to be working with the Royal Horticultural Society

to promote Massachusetts to the UK market. This significant and innovative campaign involves a number of strands which will be initiated over the coming months.”

For clients looking to explore the real gardens of Massachusetts, there are a number of tours to choose from.

Collette Worldwide, which has become the escorted company for the RHS, run a Massachusetts/New York tour and have a specialist Massachusetts tour launching next year. Similarly, America As You Like It, Bon Voyage and Hayes & Jarvis are launching fly/drive itineraries that celebrate the gardens and will be promoting the garden campaign.

As an example of prices, America As You Like It’s eightnight tour of the gardens of Massachusetts costs from £1,215 per person including flights, accommodation and car hire. To book call 020-8742 8299.

For further information on Massachusetts see www.massvacation.com/international/uk

Trafalgar issues new Taste of North America programme offering culinary options TRAFALGAR HAS launched a new Taste of North America programme, featuring tailored culinary itineraries which include cooking classes with trained chefs, tastings, visits to farms, wineries and local producers, the opportunity to dine in private homes as part of the company's signature Be My Guest experiences.

UK sales director for the One Stop Touring Shop Paul Melinis said: “Trafalgar’s food-focused itineraries are perfect for any clients who have a passion for the finer tastes in life.

Cuisine is such an important part of the travelling experience and we’re seeing

huge interest in these foodie itineraries, though guests who want a less specifically foodie experience can still get a flavour of them, as the majority of Trafalgar’s First Class itineraries now feature a Be My Guest meal. And in our customer feedback, these meals are singled out as the highlight of the trip time and time again.”

As an example of prices, an 11-day New York Zest & New England’s Best tour journeys through New York and New England, with guests getting a taste of the East Coast’s foods.

Arriving in New York City and departing from Boston, the trip calls at

Newport, Cape Cod, Nantucket, New Bedford, North Conway and Essex.

Prices lead in at £2,950 per person, based on two sharing and include flights, UK private transfers, air-conditioned coach transport, breakfast accommodation, a further seven meals including a Harbour Cruise Welcome Reception in New York and the Be My Guest lunch, plus included sightseeing and activities such as city and museum tours, tastings and cookery classes.

For more information see www.trafalgar.com and www.onestoptouringshop.co.uk or call 020-7468 4335.

Year-on-year increase for Visit St. Petersburg/Clearwater

Fort De Soto

FOR THE second year in a row, Visit St. Petersburg/Clearwater has seen an increase in UK visitors with 606,921 visiting in 2012 compared to 584,442 the previous year (an increase of 3.8%), and reports from the industry indicate that 2013 could again be a bumper year.

The global annual visitor figures for the destination reveal that the area, on Florida’s Gulf Coast, has seen 5,435,000 visitors in the calendar year – an increase of 200,000, which includes 1.1 million first-time holidaymakers.

The tourist board's UK-based director Venessa Alexander said: “The UK continues to be a key market for Visit St. Pete/Clearwater and figures show that UK visitors make up 61% of the total European visitor market."

For more information see www.visitstpeteclearwater.com

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April 19 2013

AMERICAN CRUISE Lines reports increased demand for its various itineraries offered on the new Queen of the Mississippi and has added shorter four-night cruises to its 2013 schedule, which offer a special emphasis on the various plantations found along the river. The roundtrip voyage from New Orleans is ideal for a quick getaway or extended weekend trip, offering an historic exploration of the plantations, including Nottoway Plantation, Houmas House, Oak Alley and Laura Plantation.

Featured dates include November 30, December 4 and 8, with rates starting at $2,395 per person, including a variety of special events and onboard activities.

For details see www.americancruiselines.com

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egypt EGYPT UNCOVERED is offering a nine-day Nile Family Adventure this summer from £520 per adult and £400 per child. Valid for departures on July 20 and August 3 and 17, the tour journeys to the Great Pyramids, the Sphinx and the Pharaonic tombs. Travellers will then visit a local school and experience a traditional Egyptian meal before taking a felucca sailboat down the Nile towards Luxor.

The price includes transfers, accommodation on a mixed-board basis at four- and five-star hotels, a sleeper train and felucca boat ride, along with the services of an expert guide.

For details call 0845-130 4849 or visit www.egypt-uncovered.com

Early booking discounts on Nile cruise holidays from Anatolian Sky Holidays ANATOLIAN SKY Holidays has reported a gradual increase in bookings for holidays to Egypt, following the recent political disruption.

The operator's managing director Akin Koç said: “Egypt is a one-of-a-kind destination, with a history like no other.

Many clients who had been keen to visit prior to the unrest, have ended up delaying their trips rather than opting for other destinations such as nearby Morocco, simply because there is nowhere else like Egypt.

"Clients are regaining their confidence and we are finding that interest in classic Nile Cruises and packages combining a Nile Cruise and stay are steadily growing.”

The company is currently offering early booking savings of £150 per person on a seven-day luxury Nile Cruise on the MS Nile Premium, bringing the price down to £1,049 per person for an October 28 departure.

It includes flights, accommodation on board on a full board basis, transfers and six excursions in the company of an Egyptologist.

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MS Nile Premium

For more information or to book see www.anatoliansky.co.uk or call 0844-273 3585.

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egypt New additions from Four Seasons Sharm el Sheikh THE RADISSON Blu Hotel, Cairo Heliopolis is offering a 'Day Use' package that includes the use of the gym and the spa, where staff will devise a package of treatments and massages for each guest.

Prices lead in at approximately £71 for two adults and two children including lunch.

For details visit www.radissonblu.com

AW offers new Sharm el Sheikh desert safari ATTRACTION WORLD has launched a new half-day desert safari in Sharm el Sheikh. The experience includes a quad bike ride across the Sinai Mountains; a camel ride to a Bedouin tent to have dinner; watching a show during which guests can sample traditional shisha; and viewing the stars and planets with an astronomy guide.

The trip operates daily apart from Monday, with prices leading in at £49 per person, including transport.

Wild Frontiers highlights Land of the Pharaohs tour WILD FRONTIERS is promoting a 14-day Egypt Land Of The Pharaohs tour which leads in at £2,695 per person.

The tour offers an insight into the legendary Land of the Pharaohs, a glimpse of the ‘real’ Egypt, escaping the tourist trail to visit the remote villages on the banks of the Nile.

Starting in Cairo, guests take an overnight train to Luxor to start the Nile journey on a dahabiya (traditional houseboat).

Highlights include visiting the temple complexes of Karnak and Edfu, exploring tombs in the Valley of the Kings and the markets of Aswan, followed by the temples at Abu Simbel.

For more information or to book visit www.wildfrontiers.co.uk

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April 19 2013

THE FOUR Seasons Resort Sharm el Sheikh has opened Sails Lounge, an Asian Food Lounge.

Located on a clear-walled deck overlooking the sea, the eatery offers daily Asian inspiration and a unique seven-course menu.

Each of the three menus, showcasing fresh local fish and seafood, is served throughout the week on a rotating basis, with one menu available per day.

Meanwhile, the hotel has also added new activities for kids including toy tables with train and car sets, a sand table and Pharaonic chalk walls to decorate.

For kids with extra energy to burn, there are breakdance and gymnastics workshops, as well as tennis activities plus a special “Glee” singing and performing workshop.

Created specifically with the Red Sea destination in mind, younger guests can also enjoy a weekly Fish Talk with a professional diving instructor, or experience Fish of Call, a fun and interactive dance game introducing the various marine creatures.

Other programmes include Family Quiz Time and Fair Festive, where families can play a variety of games together.

For details see www.fourseasons.com/ sharmelsheikh

Sails Lounge

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egypt Discover Egypt issues 2013/14 programme with new packages and cruises DISCOVER EGYPT has launched its 2013/14 programme featuring a range of packages, cruises and hotels, as well as the option to tailor-make holidays.

The operator's commercial director Philip Breckner said: “We have printed more brochures than usual to cope with additional demand from retailers and are expanding our distribution through the trade.

“As the trade is continually challenged by online sales, it is specialists like ourselves working closely with retailers, delivering well-priced holidays and bespoke packages that will make a difference to the travel industry and its survival.

“We are also offering additional weekly flights in September and October to Luxor. The All Leisure trade sales team is available to help agents promote Egypt and Jordan through our specialist programme and we ask that agents get in touch if they are interested in this region.”

Highlights of the new brochure include 52 weeks of Nile cruising on vessels exclusive to the operator; lead in prices from £799 for a seven-night Nile cruise with flights, transfers, full board accommodation and ten guided excursions; a range of cruise & stay packages and tailormade holidays including a ten-night Classic Egypt from £1,199 per person; and new five-day Lake Nasser cruises that include a free Sound and Light show.

As examples of prices, a new eight-night Legendary Egypt package, which includes three nights in Cairo, two in Alexandria and three in the desert oasis of Siwa, leads in at £1,199 per person including flights.

A 13-night Spectacular Egypt and Jordan package that combines Cairo, a Nile cruise and Jordan leads in at £1,999 per person.

For more information or to book call 020-7407 2111 or visit www.discoveregypt.co.uk

The serene Sacred Lake at Karnak Temple

Red Sea returns to Hayes & Jarvis’ top ten destinations EGYPT’S RED Sea has returned to Hayes and Jarvis’ Top Ten Destinations Worldwide chart for the first time in three years.

The operator reports that package sales for the destination, which experienced a fall in demand due to the Arab Spring uprisings two years ago, have since grown by 31%.

Luxury accommodation at five-star resorts such as the Ritz Carlton is now being offered at four- or three-star prices, which has contributed to the destination’s success according to the company.

In its latest report on holiday currency trends, Post Office Travel Money says that low-priced Red Sea packages are currently making Egypt a bargain destination, and that a stronger UK pound means that holidaymakers have around 8% more spending money in their pockets.

Ritz Carlton

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April 19 2013

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egypt We asked our staff the following question this week: Whose job could you do, no sweat?

CLASSIC COLLECTION Holidays has introduced Nile cruises on the luxury Yakouta Elite Dahabeya, a traditionally styled Nile river boat as historically used by Ottoman officials. The vessel, which is a modern replica of a traditional Dahabeya, features six deluxe cabins and can be booked exclusively for small groups, or cabins can be booked individually. The eight- or six-day cruise starts from Esna and highlights include the temple at Edfu, El Silsela temple, Kom Ombo and Aswan. Full board prices start from £1,365 per person for the six-day cruise this winter, excluding flights and transfers.

For details call 0800-008 7288.

Publisher: Jeanette Ratcliffe jeanette.ratcliffe@travelbulletin.co.uk MUTV producer

Editor: Lauretta Wright lauretta.wright@travelbulletin.co.uk Peter Andre's wardrobe assistant

Assistant Editor: Jill Sayles jill.sayles@travelbulletin.co.uk Contributing Editor: Paul Scudamore post@travelbulletin.co.uk The car factory chap who places little spiders in the wing mirrors, or Nick Hewer on Countdown, or even better, Jonathan Ross

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Abercrombie & Kent offers safety guarantee

Newsreader or even a continuity announcer on Radio 4

ABERCROMBIE & Kent is offering its clients a Safety Net for all trips booked to Egypt, which will allow customers to postpone their journey for up to two years should they feel concerned about their safety prior to departure.

The operator has a team of 500 on-the-ground staff in Egypt, including a specialist unit whose sole purpose is to scout the key sites to detect signs of tension.

The operator’s managing director Amr Badr said: “Our country is on a journey.

It will take time to achieve our vision of democracy. But we will get there. In the meantime, we have a responsibility to our guests to ensure they experience Egypt in complete safety and comfort.”

The company is now offering 50% off all Nile Cruises until November. A seven-day itinerary costs from £1,595 per person based on two sharing, including Economy flights, transfers, breakfast accommodation, full-board on the Nile Cruise and private guides.

For more information visit www.abercrombiekent.co.uk

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April 19 2013

Orbital Travel highlights one-off seven-night Nile cruise sailing in August from £609 ORBITAL TRAVEL has added a new 14-night cruise between Cairo and Aswan on the five-star deluxe HS Nile Vision.

At the end of August the Nile Vision will sail from Luxor to Cairo for the start of the long cruise programme in September and the operator is offering a special sailing from Luxor to Cairo on August 27.

The cruise includes seven nights’ accommodation on a full board or allinclusive basis, transfers and 17 excursions with an Egyptologist. The itinerary includes visits to Luxor Temple, Karnak Temple, Valley of the Kings, Valley of the Queens, Temple of Hatshepsut, Colossi of Memnon, Dendarah Temple, Abydos Temple, Tel Amarna, Beni Hassan, Tuna El Gabel, Cairo Museum, Citadel, Khan El Khalili Bazaar, the Pyramids, Sphinx and Sakkara Step Pyramid.

Prices lead in at £609 per person on full board and £699 on all-inclusive, excluding flights. The cruise is commissionable to agents at 15%.

For more information email greg@orbitaltravel.co.uk or see www.nile-cruise.com

puzzlesolutions Travagrams: (Top) Lufthansa

(Bottom) Russia

Where Am I?: Alberta

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