Travel Bulletin 21st February 2014

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February 21 2014 | ISSUE NO 1,861 | www.travelbulletin.co.uk

D O N ’ T M I SS.

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All About

Southern &Africa East 4

February 201

guide stop lopm oneents Your t news and deve to all the lates in Southern &

East Africa

Produced by

in.co.uk

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with this issue

this week

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hotel bulletin Travelodge opens third Gatwick hotel

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bulletin briefing why staff should be a company’s greatest asset

Theme Parks Reaching new heights: the latest park attractions,rides & offers

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bermuda John Guinn examines the origins of Bermuda shorts

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mediterranean islands a round-up of new products & deals from operators

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newsbulletin

This Week news 3

Cover Pictures: Main - Europa Park

Inset - Bermuda Tourism

new product launches, the latest deals & industry surveys

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agent bulletin

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hotel bulletin

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puzzle bulletin

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bulletin briefing

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airline bulletin

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personality bulletin

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bermuda

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theme parks

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mediterranean islands

booking incentives, fam trips & offers plus what's in store for Pisces?

Travelodge opens third Gatwick hotel play Su Doku for your chance to win a £50 M&S voucher why organisations need to treat staff as their biggest asset Germanwings boosts flights to popular destinations for summer Bourne Leisure's key account manager for the trade answers our quick-fire questions John Guinn delves into the world of triangles and shorts a look at the latest theme park additions a round-up of new programme additions & deals from operators

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BOOKING BASH...Deben Travel, a member of The Global Travel Group, recently held a travel show at Seckford Hall in Suffolk where more than 15 operators were on hand to provide information to 186 attendees, resulting in a number of bookings. Pictured marking the day's success are, from the left: Lee Hunt, Deben Travel; Hollie Smith, Travel 2; Sarah Hunt, Abi Nunn, Rebecca Leete and Marja Alford, Deben Travel; and Joanne Briggs, The Global Travel Group.

Webloyalty research finds more than 80% are reluctant to upgrade on travel as price remains highest priority NEW RESEARCH released by Webloyalty has revealed what British holidaymakers look for when booking travel and accommodation. Although a rise in consumer spending is expected this year as the economy improves, price still emerged as the most important consideration when booking both hotels and flights, suggesting that Brits are still doing everything they can to make sure they get the biggest possible bang for their buck.

Compiled by research experts Conlumino, the report found that 47% of more than 2,000 respondents consider travel to be simply a means of getting from one point to another, and as such should be done at the lowest cost possible. Only 17% of respondents agreed that having a more pleasant in-flight experience might encourage them to upgrade on their air travel choices. Instead, customers would rather spend more on several cheaper flights in order to get the most from their money.

Commenting on the research, Conlumino managing director, Neil Saunders, said: “Although our research has found that travel is an area on which many are willing to spend more this year than in 2013, these new figures suggest that it is quantity rather than quality that consumers will be looking for – more flights for less money.”

Regardless of an improving economy, the figures therefore spell out a challenging outlook for full fare airlines – only 13% say they will fly with the likes of British Airways over the next year. However, budget flight companies also face a challenge when it comes to customer satisfaction – 50% of respondents are mistrustful of the hidden charges involved when flying with low-cost airlines. Airport queues and lack of leg room on flights were also among respondents’ biggest grievances that can make a hellish holiday.

When it comes to hotels, proximity to attractions was the second most important factor after price. The research also found that when selecting hotels, holidaymakers place greater weight on reviews from previous guests than they do on the official star rating of the hotel, which was ranked the least important consideration.

However, even though price was the first consideration for so many consumers and despite apparent disregard for star ratings, a stay in a five-star luxury hotel was nonetheless in the top two choices among respondents for a dream holiday if money were no object. The luxury lifestyle is therefore something that is still desirable for many and looked to as an ideal scenario.

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newsbulletin New itineraries from Back-Roads Touring SMALL GROUP tour specialist Back-Roads Touring has announced a new line up of trips for this year, from a journey to discover ‘old pubs and great grub’ in Shrewsbury to an eight-day Croatian Wilderness Sailing adventure to explore some of the country’s most remote islands.

With maximum groups of 18 people and a promise to travel away from main roads and motorways, the company takes guests off-thebeaten-track with the opportunity to stay in charming accommodation and take part in exclusive activities, from local cooking classes to private tours of estates and gardens. All tours are accompanied by tour leaders whose former occupations are as varied as a botanist, a policeman and a sailor.

As examples, a five-day Old Pubs & Great Grub tour leads in at £1,075 per person and offers an insight into what English pubs have to offer with samplings of wine, perry and cider from local producers in Shrewsbury, Ledbury and Ross-onWye. A nine-day Flavours of Northern Croatia and Slovenia has also been added and costs from £1,795 excluding flights.

Guests can explore the landscapes of Hrvastsko Zagorje and the fertile plains and hilltops of the Istrian Peninsula.

Highlights include tasting culinary specialities along the way, from Croatia’s wines and olive oils to the Slovene nouvelle cuisine at Lake Bled.

To book or for more information visit www.backroadstouring.co. uk or call 0333-112 0109.

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AWARD REWARD...An evening to celebrate 'Burns Nicht' was organised last month at The Belfry, Sutton Coldfield, followed by the Elite Travel Group Awards, which recognised both the suppliers and the travel agent members of Elite, as voted for by the suppliers. Pictured collecting her award for 'Best Sales Team' is Liz Castle of JTA with Robert Grinsell, director of Elite Travel Group.

Paying for Wi-Fi is one of top 'holiday hates' for Brits BRITS HAVE become so reliant on smartphones and tablets on holiday that having to pay for Wi-Fi is now one of our top ‘holiday hates', according to a new survey from Thistle Hotels which polled 2,000 people.

The research found that the average holidaymaker spends an hour each day on holiday catching up with friends and current affairs, online. As a result, having to pay for Wi-Fi now ranks alongside traditional holiday grumbles such as rude hotel staff and rooms not being ready.

The findings revealed that the top five dislikes were rude hotel staff (69%), rooms not being ready (45%), paid-for Wi-Fi (38%),

limited buffet/menu selection (37%) and not being as close to holiday attractions as advertised (32%).

The survey also found that when booking a holiday, fast, free and reliable Wi-Fi is more important (51%), than having a swimming pool (49%), being close to local attractions (41%) and having a TV in the room (37%).

In light of the survey, the company has announced that it has partnered with BT WiFi to upgrade its existing free internet access.

It has also launched a new Facebook game called ‘Wifey or Wi-Fi’ where people can find out if they are guilty of paying more attention to the internet than their friends and family.

For details see www.thistle.com/wifeyorwifi

Shearings introduces new battlefield tours to mark centenary of World War I SHEARINGS HAS launched new battlefield tours for this year to coincide with the centenary of World War I. An eight-day Battlefields of World War I and II leads in at £749 per person and cruises along Dutch and Belgian waterways, with highlights including a visit to Ypres, the Airbourne Museum, the National Liberation Museum and the sights of Antwerp and Amsterdam. The price includes six nights’ full-board cruise, as well as a night’s halfboard accommodation en route and coach travel. Departures are available in April.

Meanwhile, a nine-day Battlefields Remembered tour costs from £969 and gives guests the chance to discover the battlefields of Holland and Belgium. Highlights include visits to Ypres, Cologne and the UNESCO site of Nijmegen. The price includes six nights’ full-board cruise as well as two nights’ half-board accommodation en route and coach travel. Departures are available in November.

Alternatively, a ten-day Battlefields Commemorative Cruise leads in at £1,149 and cruises along the Rhine and Dutch and Belgian waterways, with highlights including visits to Ypres, Cologne and Antwerp. The price includes seven nights’ full-board cruise, two nights’ half-board accommodation en-/post-route and coach travel. Departures are available from May to July.

Options to travel by air and rail are also available on all tours.

For more information call 0844-824 6351 or visit www.shearings.com

February 21 2014

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Newsbites ●

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UP, UP AND AWAY...Pictured marking Ryanair's new three times weekly service from Leeds Bradford to Girona Barcelona is Tony Hallwood, Leeds Bradford’s aviation development and marketing director. The flights, which serve the Costa Brava region in Spain, will commence on April 1 and will operate throughout the summer season until October 25.

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Travelpack issues USA & Canada brochure TRAVELPACK HAS launched a new USA and Canada brochure featuring a range of unique holiday experiences.

Along with traditional city stays, self-drive holidays and escorted tours, the company has included a Mississippi River Cruise with numerous itineraries lasting anywhere between four and 12 days. The American Queen Steamboat combines old world luxury with stopovers in the heart of the US. Other new options include a motor biking tour of New England and a Great Lakes cruise from St. Lawrence to Chicago.

New self-drive tours in Canada with an eastern itinerary aimed specifically at families are also featured, plus a range of included family activities, and culinary and wine tours of both eastern and western Canada.

The operator's global marketing manager, Graeme Evans, said: "With markets that are well entrenched in the customer psyche such as Canada and the US, we have tried to introduce some contemporary twists on traditional holidays. We have also introduced optional pre-programmed satellite navigation devises for our self-drive customers which are delivered prior to their UK departure."

For more information or to book see www.agents.travelpack.co.uk or call 020-8585 4020.

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SUNVIL DISCOVERY has launched its new 2014 real Portugal & Madeira brochure, featuring carefully selected properties and imaginative itineraries that focus on lesser-known and undiscovered areas.

For details visit www.sunvil.co.uk or call 020-8758 4722.

ABTA HAS produced updated guidance to further help members ensure that disabled and less mobile passengers get the most out of their travel and holiday arrangements.

For details see www.abta.com/member-zone/ travel-essentials TO CELEBRATE Chinese New Year, Travel Indochina is offering its agents and their customers a saving of £200 per couple on two of its most popular journeys to China China Panorama and Three Gorges Discovery. The offer is available on bookings made this month.

For details see www.travelindochina.co.uk, call 01865268944 or email agencysales@travelindochina.co.uk CONDOR FERRIES is running a Kids Go Free campaign where early bookers can travel to France or the Channel Islands with children travelling for free up until Easter.

The offer is available on selected crossings from Weymouth to the Channel Islands and France until Easter, and from both Weymouth and Poole on dates after that. Bookings can be made for any time up to March 2015.

For details see www.condorferries.com EASYJET HAS renewed its distribution agreement with Travelport.

Jazz festival package from Funway ONE OF the most famous festivals in New Orleans is the Jazz Festival and this year sees the line-up of a range of entertainers, including for the first time, Eric Clapton and Christina Aguilera, who will perform alongside returning acts such as Bruce Springsteen and the East Street Band, Phish, Arcade Fire and Santana.

This year's festival will run over two weekends - April 25-27 and May 1-4 and will take place at the Fair Grounds in New Orleans.

Jazz fans can make plans to attend the festival with a special package from Funway Holidays, where a five-night stay at the two-and-a-half-star Clarion Inn & Suites New Orleans costs from £965 per person. The price includes flights with United Airlines and is based on an April 23 departure.

For details see www.funway4agents.co.uk

Abu Dhabi hits annual 2013 visitor target a month early with 2.5m guests ABU DHABI Tourism & Culture Authority (TCA Abu Dhabi) has announced that it reached its annual visitor target a month early in 2013, with more than 2.5m guests checking into Abu Dhabi’s 149 hotels and hotel apartments in the first 11 months of the year.

The destination welcomed 260,810 guest arrivals in November, a 27% growth on 2012’s performance.

The UK remains Abu Dhabi’s second

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largest overseas market, with 147,852 Brits checking into the emirate’s hotels in the first 11 months of 2013, a 14% increase on 2012. British guests accounted for 690,902 guest nights – an increase of 24% year-on-year with an average length of stay of 4.67 nights, again up 8% on 2012.

HE Jasem Al Darmaki, deputy director general of the tourist board, said: “This is great news which we were cautiously optimistic about as

November was packed with events including the headline Grand Prix, the Abu Dhabi Film Festival, the FIFA Under 17 World Cup and Abu Dhabi Art. “It’s all the more gratifying given that since last year the emirate has seen 12 more properties and almost 2,500 new rooms come on line. Length of stay continues its upward trend, which suggests people are increasingly convinced that there is more to do and see in Abu Dhabi.”

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newsbulletin Tweets of the Week Who’s saying what on Twitter... @redseauk Book any Red Sea Holidays departing between 01 May and 31 October, and you'll save £200 per booking, guaranteed –... http://fb.me/1d9Z9PPbb @mwholidays What to pack when going on a family #ski trip http://www.markwarner.c o.uk/blog/?p=575 @T2News Our #UltimateSale is back!! Until the end of Feb you can take advantage of up to 40% off #Australia & #NewZealand holidays #happyclients @VisitBritain The largest ever collection of James Bond vehicles coming to London Film Museum 21 March: http://bit.ly/1ffRT70 @Travelpack The most impressive underground railway stations in Europe http://ow.ly/tA5iB

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

MOVERS

CroisiEurope introduces new vessel for cruising the Loire

● CARSTEN SPOHR has joined Deutsche Lufthansa AG as CEO. ● DORSETT HOSPITALITY International has appointed Declan

CROISIEUROPE IS introducing a new vessel concept for cruising on the Loire inspired by an ancient technique – the paddle wheel. The company is re-working the technique using today’s technology to create a new and unique type of craft which will start operating in April 2015.

The MS Loire Princesse is 90m long and 15m wide and offers three decks. The ship features 48 spacious outside cabins and can accommodate up to 96 passengers. Branded the “Green Ship”, the vessel has been designed to be as environmentally and ecologically friendly as possible.

From April 2015, MS Loire Princesse will cruise along the Loire, visiting areas rich in cultural heritage, many of which are listed by UNESCO including SaintNazaire, Ancenis, Angers, the Castles of the Loire, Saumur, Bouchemaine and Nantes.

For further information call 020-8328 1281 or visit www.croisieurope.travel

Murphy as director of sales and marketing for Dorsett Shepherds Bush, the group’s first hotel venture in Europe, set to open in May. ● PEGASUS SOLUTIONS has appointed Linda Kent as senior vice president, distribution strategy. ● THE PARK Tower Knightsbridge, a Luxury Collection Hotel, London has announced the appointment of Yacine Bezegouche as the new restaurant manager and Santo Borzi as the new sommelier at the hotel’s fish restaurant, One-OOne. ● DR RASHID Al Ghailani has joined Oman Air as chief officer, human resources.

Superbreak puts Dancing On Ice package on sale TO CELEBRATE the 30th anniversary of Bolero, Olympic skaters Torvill and Dean are set to return for a new 'Dancing On Ice The Final Tour’ which will call at various venues across the country this April.

Superbreak has put packages on sale that include tickets to the show and Joe Pasquale overnight accommodation.

Agents have a variety of venues to promote to customers in their catchment. Prices lead in at £86 per person for the Manchester show including one night at the three-star Days Hotel Manchester City.

Show venues and dates are Phones 4U Manchester Arena from March 28-30; Newcastle Metro Radio Arena from April 4-5; Glasgow SECC on April 11 and 13; Sheffield Motorsport Arena from April 15-17; NIA Birmingham on April 18, 20 and 21; Wembley Arena from April 23-24; and Leeds First Direct Arena from April 26-27.

The first celebrities to join the Dancing on Ice Final Tour 2014 have been announced and include Ray Quinn, Hayley Tamaddon, Kyran Bracken and Joe Pasquale.

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

USA & CANADA OUT NOW!!

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Starring : Low prices, Excellent Quality, Unique Products Featuring : Exciting Self Drive Holidays, Fantastic Escorted

Tours, Rail Tours, Cruise, City Stays and much more...

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0208 585 4020 www.agents.travelpack.co.uk

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February 21 2014

ABTA No.N1031

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newsbulletin Virgin Holidays issues new Florida 2015 preview brochure

TREAT FOR TOTS...Butlins has launched its new ‘Just For Tots’ four-night breaks which begin on April 28 at Bognor Regis and Skegness resorts and on May 5 at Minehead. Created with the under-fives in mind, the breaks include live shows, a range of activities, nutritious meals and quiet walking route maps. The breaks run until mid-September and cost from £50 per person based on a May 5 arrival at Minehead with two adults and two children sharing a standard self-catering apartment.

Great Rail Journeys & Treyn highlight emerging trends for 2014 CHINA, COMMEMORATIVE Battlefield tours and the Northern Lights in Lapland are just three trends in rail tours for this year, identified

by Great Rail Journeys (GRJ) and its sister company Treyn.

A total of 58 new tours across both brands have been added for this year out of a total of 360, and GRJ has put together what it sees as its key trends for 2014.

They include a new China by rail itinerary, just one of a selection of tours to China, offered for the first time. A 17-day Grand Tour of China leads in at £2,995 per person.

Meanwhile, with 18 special tours to commemorate the 100-year anniversary of the First World War, GRJ is predicting that many people will wish to mark this special year by soaking up the history of Northern France and Belgium, both of which are easily accessible by train from St Pancras into the Northern area of Flanders and the Somme. In addition,

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there are Bruges & Battlefield tours and Remembrance Day tours.

GRJ's battlefields tours start from £425 per person for a five-day Battlefields of Flanders tour and Treyn’s battlefield tours start from £295 per person for a fourday Bruges & Ypres tour.

Also new to the programme is Lapland and the Northern Lights, which has been introduced to make the most of next year’s peak in solar activity during an 11year cycle.

The tour features Lapland as well as Norway’s Lofoten Islands travelling on one of Scandinavia’s most scenic railways. There are two opportunities to view the Northern lights in Lofoten and Narvik, and the rail tour itself goes well into the Arctic Circle. The 11-day tour leads in at £2,325 with GRJ. To book or for further information visit www.greatrail.com and www.railholidays.com

February 21 2014

VIRGIN HOLIDAYS has launched its 2015 Florida preview brochure with holidays to suit all tastes and budgets.

On sale for departures from May 1 to October 31, 2015, the brochure features holidays to both the Sunshine State and Mexico.

To mark its launch, the company is offering customers a range of early booking offers such as £200 off bookings for holidays to Florida or Mexico, a ‘Kids Eat Free’ card in Orlando and free resort credit of up to $2,500 at the fivestar Moon Palace Golf & Spa Resort in Riviera Cancun.

Florida product on sale for 2015 includes destinations such as Orlando, Miami and the Florida beaches, while tickets for Universal, SeaWorld and Disney are also available. In the Orlando area, holidaymakers can choose from a range of resorts close to the parks or alternatively opt for a villa home for a more private getaway.

In Mexico, the company offers eight properties for 2015, including some of its most popular all-inclusive, familyfriendly properties such as the five-star Dreams Tulum Resort & Spa on the Yucatan Peninsula near the ancient ruins of Tulum and the Occidental Grand Xcaret on the Riviera Maya, next to the eco-adventure park Xcaret, where water-based activities, nature and entertainment shows are available. As an added bonus, families staying at the resort between May 1 and October 31, 2015 can save up to 25% on the cost of their accommodation when they book by February 28.

For more information see www.vhols4agents.co.uk or call 0844-557 3973.

Go

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WEBSCLUSIVES ●

Win £300 of Harrods’ Shopping Vouchers, courtesy of Vienna Tourist Office. To enter go to www.travelbulletin.co.uk/competitions

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Win a Fam Trip place to Mauritius, courtesy of Air Mauritius. Just enter our competition at www.travelbulletin.co.uk/competitions

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Brochure of The Week: Hurtigruten Winter 2014/15. To view in digital format, please go to www.travelbulletin.co.uk/brochures

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Make sure you read our All About Southern & East Africa 2014 supplement. To view in digital format, please go to: www.travelbulletin.co.uk/travel-bulletin-backissues

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 ●

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with booking a MAKING AGENTS DoSomethingDifferent.com will be entered into a prize draw to win a VIP holiday to Las Vegas for two. The prize includes flights with Virgin Atlantic from Gatwick or Manchester, luxury limousine APO transfers and three nights in a suite at the four-star LVH Hotel & Casino.

Also included is a Grand Canyon helicopter flight, tickets to any Cirque du Soleil show, a hot air balloon ride, a Shop & Dine experience and a night out on the tiles, with VIP access to the top clubs in Las Vegas with a VIP Night Club Tour. To enter the prize draw agents should book any worldwide attraction, experience or tour on the operator's website and register the booking by twitter at @DSDsuperheroes, by email (viva-lasvegas@dosomethingdifferent.com) or by phone on 020-8909 3890. Agents will receive double entries by booking any VIP Night Club Tours, any Cirque du Soleil shows, hot air balloon rides and Las Vegas Shop & Dine cards. The competition closes on March 31.

AGENTS CAN win a holiday for two to Florida worth up to £2,000 as part of Travel 2’s ‘Make Florida your No. 1’

campaign. The operator has teamed up with Virgin Atlantic, Alamo car hire and SeaWorld to highlight the range of Florida holiday choices available for families as well as the region’s major attractions and selfdrive holidays. To receive one entry into the prize draw agents need to book a holiday package to Florida for five nights or more with the company. Agents making a booking that includes Virgin Atlantic, Alamo or SeaWorld will receive two entries into the draw.

Bookings must be made by February 28.

For details see www.travel2.com ●

THROUGHOUT THIS month, agents making a booking with Carnival will automatically qualify to win one of 28 cruises given away daily as part of a promotion with the winners announced the following morning. The more bookings agents make, the more chance they will have of winning a free cruise. Agents can select from a wide range of three- to seven-night itineraries sailing out of a variety of departure ports within three to five months.

For details see www.carnival.co.uk

Fancy a fam TRAVEL 2 IS giving away five fam trip places to South Africa. Agents also have the chance to win one of four experience days each worth £500 throughout this month as part of the company's ‘Be ‘WOWED’ 24/7 in South Africa’ campaign. To be in with a chance of winning either a fam place or an experience day, agents need to make a new booking with the

It’s in the stars…

What’s in store for Pisces?

IF YOU have any big decisions to make in the next few weeks, go with your gut instinct as it's sure to pay off.

However, make sure that you take time out to both reflect on current issues and relax. Very often, other people's problems become your own so you need to remove yourself every now and then to gather strength. There is a range of opportunities surrounding your birth sign, particularly on February 28 when the new moon appears in Pisces, and you should receive positive news that you've been waiting for.

Lucky day: Friday Lucky number: 12

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operator that includes a minimum of three days’ ground arrangements to receive entry into the weekly prize draw. Entries that include a booking made with South African Airways flights will receive double entry into that week’s draw. Qualifying bookings must be made by February 28.

For details see www.travel2.com

Agent offer TRAVEL AGENTS who secure a minimum of US$10,000 of bookings following a special Khiri Travel fam trip to either Laos and Vietnam, Cambodia and Vietnam, or Vietnam only, will have their trip costs refunded in full. The fam trips take place in May and June this year and agents hav e three choices: A nine-day Laos and Vietnam trip for $935, with departures on May 5, 13 and 21; an eight-day Vietnam trip for $575 with departures on May 12 and 19 and June 16; and a nine-day Vietnam and Cambodia combination for $985 with departu res on May 12 and 19 and June 16. Prices are per person and are for land arrangements only (exclud ing air fares). Special prices are available for accompan ying non-travel industry partners. Rooms are bas ed on twin/double sharing and the refund is based on the cost of the land arrangement and offered to travel agents only.

For bookings, information, comple te tour descriptions and conditions email contact@kh iri.com

February 21 2014

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hotelbulletin Austria's capital sees launch of boutique hotel, The Guest House Vienna THE GUEST House Vienna, a new boutique hotel, has recently opened its doors, offering luxury accommodation in the heart of Austria’s capital city.

Located behind the State Opera and the Albertina museum, the property offers an ideal location from which to explore the sights of the cultural and historical centre.

Together with British designer Sir Terence Conran and Conran & Partners, the former 1950s student house has been transformed into an elegant luxury boutique hotel that combines quality materials and comfortable living spaces.

Each of the 39 Conran designed rooms has been conceived not as a hotel room, but a living space, with a relaxed domestic feel, and guests are treated to views of the Opera House, roof garden and St Stephen’s Cathedral from the rooms.

Prices start from €170 per room per night.

To book or for more information see www.theguesthouse.at

InBrief ● SLOVENIA'S KEMPINSKI Palace Portorož is reopening on February

28, and to mark the launch a spring deal is being offered. It includes €140 for a double occupancy room including breakfast, with free access to the Rose Spa which offers saunas, a pool and fitness facilities. The offer also includes 25% off massages, 10% off the a la carte menu and free Wi-Fi. For details see www.kempinski.com/portoroz ● CENTARA HOTELS & Resorts of Thailand will soft open its second resort in Sri Lanka in spring this year. Centara Ceysands Resort & Spa Sri Lanka is set on the Bentota Peninsula, at the south of the island, and will be operated by the company under a management contract. ● HAMPTON BY Hilton welcomes a landmark addition to its portfolio with the opening of the Hampton by Hilton London Waterloo. It is the brand’s first hotel in central London and offers 297 guestrooms, free Wi-Fi and breakfast as part of the room rate.

For details see www.hampton.com ● CAP MAISON in Saint Lucia has introduced a new dine-around programme which allows guests to experience a variety of dining options. Cox & Kings offers seven nights’ breakfast accommodation from £1,645 per person, based on two sharing, including Virgin flights from Gatwick and private transfers.

For details see www.coxandkings.co.uk and www.capmaison.com ● SHANGRI-LA HOTELS and Resorts has announced that Shangri-La Hotel, At The Shard, London will open on May 6. Located on the historic South Bank of the River Thames in the 306m-high, glassclad Shard, the hotel will be the Hong Kong-based luxury hotel group’s third in Europe, following debuts in Paris in 2010 and Istanbul in 2013.

For details see www.shangri-la.com/london

Mercure Manchester Piccadilly

Travelodge opens third Gatwick hotel TRAVELODGE HAS opened its third hotel at the UK’s second busiest airport, Gatwick.

Crawley Travelodge is a 110-room new build property with six floors and represents a £7million investment and the creation of 20 new jobs.

The hotel is located on Pegler Way in Crawley, which is less than five miles from Gatwick Airport and offers rooms from £24.

In a further recent investment in the area, the company's biggest hotel at the airport, Gatwick Airport Central, has been updated as part of a £57million refurbishment programme at a cost of nearly £300,000.

For more information see www.travelodge.co.uk

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February 21 2014

JUPITER HOTELS has completed the renovation of signature event spaces at three of its hotels in Brighton, Maidstone and Manchester. The Mercure Brighton Seafront Hotel has unveiled a £60,000 refurbishment of its ‘Ballroom’ event space which is able to host 180-seated guests. The new Heart of Kent Suite at the Mercure Maidstone Great Danes Hotel can now host 650-seated guests, while renovation work on the Mercure Manchester Piccadilly Hotel’s International Suite was completed in October, following a £500,000 investment. The space, which is able to accommodate 800 guests theatre-style and 650 guests for a banquet, becomes one of the North-West’s largest event facilities.

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puzzlebulletin Travagrams

Su Doku Win a £50 M&S voucher in the travelbulletin Su Doku prize puzzle Number: 007

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

Nectarine Rook Yum

A➠

B➠ Canadian rail tour operator

C➠

Sable

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, February 27th. Solution and new puzzle will appear next week.

The winner for 7th February is Sharon Mackie, Cruise Connections in Lancaster.

February 7 Solution: A=5 B=2 C=9 D=6

Crossword

This European destination shares its name with this herb

Where Am I?

Longest river in Asia.

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

Number: 007

Across 1. Carrier based in the USA (6) 4. Salt Lake City is the state capital (4) 7. Code for Queen Alia International airport, Amman (3) 8. North African country (7) 10. Taber specialises in holidays to this country (6) 11. Ancient Chinese dynasty (4) 13. Popular Jamaican holiday resort, ___ Rios (4) 15. Sea between Australia and New Zealand (6) 18. Capital of Georgia (7) 19. Airport code for Alderney, Channel Isles (3) 20. Columbus is the state capital (4) 21. Celebrity who recently completed a 500mile Sport Relief Challenge (6)

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Down 1. Athlete and many faces of the Virgin Media ads (5,4) 2. Ancient Turkish city (5) 3. Company specialising in airport hotels and parking, Holiday ___ (6) 5. Dramatic Puccini opera, set in Rome (5) 6. Flows through the capital of the Tyrol (3) 9. The Iguazu Falls are on the border of this country (9) 12. Capital of the Philippines (6) 14. Port au Prince is the capital of this island country (5) 16. Known as the Cruise Capital of the World (5) 17. Airport code for 16 Down (3)

For the solution to the Crossword, Where Am I? and Travagrams, please see page 30 February 21 2014

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reservations@ukairpacific.com

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Industry Insight by...

Staff – Do you really treat them as your biggest asset? by COLIN O’NEILL, business development director, The Advantage Travel Partnership AM fairly certain that were you to randomly open any of the thousands of management books that have been written, they are quite likely to make mention of the fact that the staff a business employs is its greatest asset - and it is really difficult to argue with that fact.

I

However, faced with the cold realities of business life, theory and practice do not always go hand in hand and can you honestly say that you treat your staff as the asset that they are?

Let me be clear, I have no intention of coming across as completely righteous but as we have just undertaken a review of central activity as part of our Investors In People Silver accreditation, we have spent a considerable amount of time recently considering the value of our assets - primarily making the most of it.

What we have learnt from the experience primarily relates to having staff at the centre of your business and that key to this centring is ensuring that core business objectives are inextricably linked to staff job roles and responsibilities.

Business checklist To make it simple, can you tick off with confidence the following in your business: ●

All staff have up to date job descriptions that clearly outline the purpose and key activities associated with the role – essentially the ‘What’ they are expected to do.

●

You have determined and clearly spelt out the personal qualities you expect all your staff to display? These qualities are likely to include team working, customer services skills and showing initiative. These elements make up the ‘How’ you expect your staff to behave.

It is all about the ‘How’ rather than the ‘What’ In fairness, the majority of organisations largely concentrate on tasks and seldom spend time on the cultural elements of their business. However, in the service industry in which we operate, a potentially important point of difference between you and your competitors, including the internet, could be as much about how you go about dealing with the customer - the additional service that you offer them. Don’t get me

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"A potentially important

point of difference between you and your competitors could be as much about how you go about dealing with the customer and the additional service that you offer them" wrong, I am not advocating that you swing a huge bureaucratic system into action, but I am suggesting that you may want to consider making the intangible cultural elements within your business more pronounced for the benefit of both staff and managers alike.

From our perspective, such is the importance of getting this right, that Gina Daniels, the HR manager at the Advantage Travel Partnership and I have prepared a free of charge workshop for our partnership members covering many of the essential areas of staff management and development.

As a final comment, I am not saying that managers deliberately go out of the way to undervalue staff; it is more the case that we perhaps pay lip-service to the importance of staff development without really understanding what that means to the manager, the member of staff and the health of the business.

If staff are the greatest asset of any business then a re-think or at least a review of current practice may be in order.

February 21 2014

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newsbulletin New Italy & Sicily brochure from Sunvil Discovery offers visits to Venetian Villas SUNVIL DISCOVERY has launched its 2014 real Italy & Sicily brochure featuring a range of accommodation including five-star villa hotels, agriturismos (farm properties), apartments, spa resorts and trulli houses (traditional cottages with conical roofs). For the first time, the operator invites travellers to visit the Ville Venete (Venetian Villas), recommending the Il Burchiello mini-cruise along the Brenta River as the ideal way to explore a selection of three villas. Travelling from Padua to Venice (or vice versa) in a day, on what was once a typical Venetian barge (now an air-conditioned motorboat), there are three guided villa visits, with stops for bridges, locks and lunch.

Prices lead in at £94 per adult including entrance fees, plus £27 for an optional lunch.

The company has also added three new properties in the Veneto from which the villas can easily be visited. They include Hotel Villa Margherita in Mira, a four-star 17th century residence, with prices from £493 per person for

three nights' breakfast stay, flights from Heathrow and car hire. The five-star Hotel Villa Franceschi, also in Mira, is made up of several 16th century villas and a three-night breakfast stay costs from £522 including flights and car hire.

Hotel NH Mantegna in Padua, a four-star property, has also been introduced, with prices leading in at £429 for three nights' breakfast accommodation, flights and car hire.

The operator features a range of gastronomic and winethemed experiences, from traditional cooking tutorials in the Chianti Hills and limoncello-making classes in Eastern Sicily, to wine-tasting in a Tuscan medieval hilltop hamlet and participation in olive and grape harvests (all payable locally).

Brochure prices lead in at £458 based on two sharing and include seven nights’ self-catering accommodation at the Terra Rossa Apartments in Taormina, flights from Gatwick and private transfers.

For more information see www.sunvil.co.uk or call 020-8758 4722.

Fred.\ offers new city break destinations in 2014 summer brochure FRED.\ HAS launched its new summer 2014 brochure which includes new city break destinations as well as three new rail tours and a special ‘Royal Heritage Route’ of Germany to coincide with the country’s commemoration of the 300th anniversary of the first Hanoverian King.

New destinations include Aachen, Baden-Baden, Passau, Rome, Venice, Krakow, Warsaw, Florence, Dubrovnik and Venice, while the additional rail tours include the Glacier Express, Harz Mountain and ‘Following the Rhine’.

Keeping an i on Apps

ne app with D smartpho AN UPDATE ing life m aimed at ak es ur at fe w ne lers on siness travel easier for bu ed by the been launch the road has has The company ATPI Group. the free of n 2.0 versio developed a atures fe w ne p with ‘On the Go’ ap ieval of tomatic retr including au less les and seam travel schedu n ow s’ ith client integration w features er th O lendars. personal ca ime ts and real-t include aler les and flight schedu updates on n. io at inform local weather app/ ile ob /m i.com See www.atp ravel-app go-t atpi-on-the-

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February 21 2014

Overall brochure prices lead in at £229 per person for a two-night short break to Brussels staying at the four-star Ibis Brussels SteCatherine Hotel on a bed-andbreakfast basis, including Eurostar travel.

Agents looking to work with the company should call 0808-159 5256 or email lawrence@fred.travel

TO ENHANC E Texas visito rs’ experience an d highlight th e variety of activities available ac ross the Lone Star Sta te, Texas Tour ism has launched th e ‘Travel Texa s’ mobile app for Andro id and iPhone users.

The official m obile travel app serves as a passport to a one-of-akind trip thro ugh the Lone Star State. From Western adve nture and beaches to ar ts, music an d family events, user s can explor e sites and activities acro ss the state with the new interact ive app. Visi tors can plan their tr ip ahead of ti me by building an it inerary prio r to their arrival. While on their trip , the app allows users to check-in at stops along the way to stamps which earn passport can be shared friends and with family via so cial media.

AS ABLE.COM H INTERACTER Groupdia d lle ca w app launched a ne g group any travellin Travel where latest ted with the can be upda em th specific to information, options. ity tiv rs or ac including offe rally by the ntrolled cent The app is co travel or p erator, grou TMC, tour op can split ho w ganiser or ce en er nf co pending b-groups, de clients into su s, and ities or choice on their activ ation ic way commun SMS. keep in twoor d/ an a the app with them vi travellers ill reach the Messages w tphone or have a smar whether they ents and em Wi-Fi requir no ith w t, no ice is ges. The serv no data char basis go u yo as a pay provided on r month. from £135 pe e For details se erable.com ct ra www.inte

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airlinebulletin

InBrief ● FROM JULY, TAP Portugal's network will benefit from the addition

of two new destinations in Central and South America, Bogotá and Panama City. The route is to be launched with four weekly frequencies from Heathrow operating on a Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, allowing easy access, via Lisbon, to the Central and South American cities. ● WENDY WU Tours is offering a free round trip upgrade to Premium Economy Class to customers booking their holiday to China flying with Cathay Pacific, as well as free lounge access. The offer is available when booked by February 28 and applies to round trips between Heathrow and Hong Kong for departures until November 30. Onward flights to mainland China are in Economy Class.

For details see www.wendywutours.co.uk or call 0844-875 2436. ● GULF AIR has announced that it will recommence flights to Iranian capital Tehran, with four weekly flights starting on March 3. ● AIR FRANCE and Air Malta have signed a code-share agreement whereby Air France will place its code and flight numbers on flights operated by Air Malta between Malta and Paris-CDG and Orly, and also between Malta and Lyon from March 30.

AVIANCA IS launching its London-Bogotá route in July, with four flights weekly being added to the 23 Spain-Colombia flights the airline offers. The new launch gives travellers from the UK more options of flying to points within Colombia, as well as to the other major capitals of Central and South America. The transatlantic flights will be served by modern Airbus A-330 aircraft with a capacity for 252 passengers. The latest-generation aircraft offer 30 seats in Business Class and 222 in Economy Class, all with individual screens and on-demand entertainment systems.

For details see www.avianca.co.uk

Germanwings boosts flights to popular holiday destinations for summer GERMANWINGS HAS expanded its range of flights to popular holiday destinations for this year. The summer flight plan, which begins on March 30, offers flights from Dusseldorf to Palma de Mallorca (with up to 24 connections per week), Thessaloniki, Heraklion, Ibiza and Venice.

From Hamburg, new routes to Heraklion and Faro will be launched, and from Berlin/Tegel, the carrier has extended its summer timetable, with new flights to Palma de Mallorca and Split in particular.

A large part of the growth is due to the acquisition of Lufthansa routes, although the airline has launched new routes as well as expanded capacity on its existing routes.

In terms of markets, the demand for flights to Italy is growing the most, with 83% more seats on sale as part of the 2014 summer timetable than there were in 2013. Spain is also seeing clear growth, with 79% more seats available this year – Palma de Mallorca alone has seen an increase in capacity of 75%. On the routes to and from Greece, the airline has increased the number of seats by 34%, while Portugal sees an increase of 25% on the previous year.

In terms of individual destinations, the destination that sees the highest volume of travellers is Palma de Mallorca with a 75% increase. In the capital of Mallorca, the airline is offering almost 7,000 seats more per week than last year and this is also the case in Barcelona (up 56%), Rome (up 64%), Venice (up 83%), Thessaloniki (up 53%), Heraklion (up 51%), Ibiza (up 61%), Naples (up 81%) and Bologna (up 97%), where flight numbers are once again strong and growing at a good level.

For details see www.germanwings.com

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Air Malta to restart Algiers route AIR MALTA will restart its flights to Algiers on March 19, following encouraging results of last summer’s venture to the Algerian capital.

Flights will follow a twice-weekly schedule, on Mondays and Thursdays, throughout summer and the schedule has been designed to also offer connectivity to and from the carrier's destinations beyond Malta in both directions.

Flights can be booked at www.airmalta.com

Monument of the Martyrs (Maquam E’chahid), Algiers

Pegasus adds Frankfurt & Madrid to network PEGASUS AIRLINES is launching new routes from Istanbul to Spain’s Madrid and Germany’s Frankfurt next month.

Frankfurt is the airline's seventh destination in Germany, following Berlin, Düsseldorf, Cologne, Munich, Nuremberg and Stuttgart. Flights launch on March 22 with prices starting at £41 one-way including taxes and charges. The flights will operate daily, leaving Istanbul’s Sabiha Gokcen Airport at 11:50 and returning from Frankfurt Airport to Istanbul at 14:55.

Adding a second route in Spain to its network after launching Barcelona last year, the carrier will launch its Madrid route on March 24, with prices starting at £58 one-way including taxes and charges. Flights to Madrid depart daily from Istanbul at 10:15, and return to Istanbul from Madrid’s Barajas International Airport at 14:25.

For details see www.flypgs.com/en

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personalitybulletin

Louise Tansey Key account manager for the trade, Bourne Leisure At home

At play

What's your favourite household gadget?

The iron.

Where would you most like to visit and why?

Australia, to learn to play the didgeridoo – I would love to visit Ayres Rock and climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge at night, even though I’m scared of heights.

What is your favourite TV programme?

Take Me Out - I love a bit of cheese!

What are your hobbies?

Going to the theatre and travelling.

Who does the cooking?

Me. I think I’m a young Delia Smith, although others may think differently!

What's a typical weekend for you like?

A TV date with the Sky Planner.

What's your guilty pleasure?

Oooh, can I really reveal this? Actually it’s a glass of Prosecco!

What do you do to relax?

Socialise with friends.

What music do you listen to?

All types really, Robbie Williams is my guilty pleasure.

What's your favourite movie?

Bridget Jones, something about those pants!

What's been your latest DIY project?

Converting our large bedroom into a bathroom.

“

I would love to visit Ayers Rock and climb Sydney Harbour bridge at night - even though I’m scared of heights!

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February 21 2014

What trait do you dislike in other people?

People that can’t mind their own business.

What is your best quality?

I’m passionate and self motivated.

What's your most embarrassing moment?

Celebrating a special birthday moment, I got rather excited with a party popper and accidently burst my boss’ ear drum! Not really a good way to impress your boss is it?!

If you could invent a new law, what would it be?

Don’t have box junctions in London! And everyone should have three duvet days a year!

At work What other companies/ organisations have you previously worked for?

I worked at an independent travel agency for 16 years (so I understand the trade) Sunways Holidays, and I have been with Bourne for over six years now.

If you could change one thing in the industry what would it be?

No more shop closures and everyone books their holidays with a travel agent – bring back the good old days!

What personal item do you have on your desk at work?

Photo booth pics from trade events with the team.

Who has been your inspiration in the travel industry?

My first MD that I ever worked for, who pushed me into retail sales and gave me the passion for travel and to personally succeed in everything that I do.

What was the last email you received?

Regarding a team building event!

What skill are you most proud of?

My social skills. Anyone who has been on my table at trade events will know that I like the fun element and things that glow in the dark and flash! I love to stand out!

What's the best thing about your job?

Building great relationships with agents and meeting new friends.

What's a typical day like?

No two days are the same – I can be on a road trip meeting lots of new agents, hosting agents on an overnight managers meeting at our properties, or at a commercial meeting, but that’s why I love my job.

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bermuda AGENTS MAKING bookings for clients at the 62-room The Reefs Hotel & Club for a minimum of seven nights by March 15 can now offer savings of up to 50%. The deal applies to stays up to December 19. The property has also announced the completion of its three-year project to renovate the bathrooms in its Poolside and Cliffside rooms. The new bathrooms include walk-in tiled rain showers, hardwood vanities and new countertops and fixtures.

For details visit www.thereefs.com

In-store Bermuda days form part of Classic Collection Holidays' latest campaign AS PART of a new marketing campaign, Classic Collection Holidays will be hosting a large number of instore Bermuda days from the start of summer.

The operator, which has confirmed 15 dates with participating travel agencies throughout the UK between April and July, is also working in conjunction with 100 pre-selected agency partners and the Bermuda Tourism Authority to support the official Bermuda Day celebrations on the island on Saturday May 24.

Karen Rondan, the operator's Bermuda account manager, said: “We are delighted with the support that we have received from agents wanting to

take part in our Bermuda in-store days. The whole idea is to raise the profile of Bermuda by giving customers and shoppers on the High Street a taste of what a holiday to Bermuda is all about, whilst we conduct product training for all agency staff.

“We involve local press, dignitaries, town criers, traditional costumes, Bermuda rum and the island’s celebrated rum cake. Our Bermuda days form just one part of our marketing campaign for the island.

Alongside our stand-alone brochure we have a dedicated on the road resource promoting the destination to the travel trade year-round, a

knowledgeable specialist sales team to handle all bookings to Bermuda and a trade advertising campaign backed by the Bermuda Tourism Authority.

Based on our activities last year, sales for this summer have already surpassed those of 2013, so we are keen to build on that momentum.”

The operator features 11 properties on Bermuda, with two hotels in New York for customers looking to combine a holiday on the island with a stopover.

Agents wishing to arrange a Bermuda day with the operator between August and November should call Karen Rondan on 01903-836611.

For further details call 0800-294 9329 or visit www.classic-collection.co.uk

Prestige Holidays reports 12% year-on-year increase in Bermuda bookings PRESTIGE HOLIDAYS has reported that its Bermuda bookings are up 12% yearon-year this year in comparison to 2013.

John Dixon, chairman and managing director of the operator, said: “Bermuda has finally shaken off its identity crisis. The majority of agents now know it’s only six-and-a-half hours flying time away rather than the nine hours it takes to get to the Caribbean. They also know it’s not in hurricane belt and that its summer season mirrors the UK. “In terms of cost, it’s all a matter of comparison. The island is no more expensive

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than London. Also, it has a limited number of beds, just 2,300, and has always marketed itself as an exclusive rather than a mass market destination.

Price is not the main consideration of the more mature travellers and honeymooners who find it attractive. They are drawn by its pristine beauty, sophistication and the fact that it’s a very safe destination.”

The operator says that it has also seen a rise in family business to the island, with hotels such as the Fairmont Southampton proving particularly popular.

Examples of packages include a nine-night holiday at Grotto Bay - the operator’s top-selling hotel in Bermuda - from £1,559 per person, including British Airways flights from Gatwick, private transfers on the island and room-only

accommodation in a Superior Ocean view room.

The package includes three free nights, offering a saving of £604 per couple.

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

February 21 2014

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bermuda New CEO for Bermuda Tourism Authority THE BERMUDA Tourism Authority (BTA) has announced the appointment of Bill Hanbury as its chief executive officer.

David Dodwell, chairman of the authority, said: “Bill brings tremendous marketing and management expertise that will assist Bermuda as we re-energise the island’s tourism economy to compete in the global marketplace. He has led the rebuilding of other organisations with similar challenges and we look forward to having him form and lead the team at Bermuda Tourism Authority.”

Hanbury said: “I’m excited to have the opportunity to work with the new board of directors, private sector partners and government officials to build a world-class organisation representing Bermuda’s extraordinary tourism assets.

"Bermuda is one of the globe’s premiere tourism destinations and to have an opportunity to work here is an honour and a significant professional challenge. I look forward to implementing the National Tourism Plan with the intention of creating jobs, increasing tax revenues and improving the overall tourism figures and its input to the Bermuda economy.”

nn, holiday

by John Gui

researcher

John delves into the world of triangles and shorts...

John Guinn runs Holiday Hut and has a weekly travel show on internet radio station, Secklow Sounds. He also contributes regularly to UK Health Radio. ention Bermuda to most people and the chances are that they will mention the Bermuda Triangle and Bermuda shorts.

The Bermuda Triangle is an area of the North Atlantic Ocean where ships and planes disappear in mysterious circumstances. It’s a little like my sock drawer, where pairs of socks go in, but only odd socks come out.

However, the Bermuda Triangle is just a myth and the only scary thing about it is the song by Barry Manilow. This track is definitely an earworm and once it’s in my head it never wants to leave. In fact it’s torturing me as I type this.

Bermuda shorts do exist, but this doesn’t mean that they are any easier to explain. They are a recent addition to Bermuda and were invented out of necessity, so there isn’t a nice romantic story to them unlike the Hawaiian shirt.

During the Second World War there was a shortage of material on the island and the story goes that the local banks were concerned that the male employees wouldn’t be able to maintain the required standard of attire. A local tailor was asked to make two pairs of shorts for every male banker. These shorts were based on those worn by the British Army in tropical and desert areas. As well as the shorts the workers were also given two pairs of long grey socks. Hmm, itchy grey flannel shorts and grey woollen socks, what a great combination.

The style of these shorts has moved on since then; they are made with more comfortable material and instead of grey they now come in various colours. They are usually worn with a dress shirt, jacket and tie.

Unfortunately I can’t wear them, not with my skinny, Bambi legs.

For more sensible information about Bermuda have a listen to my interview with Shubhra Halliday from Prestige Holidays http://tinyurl.com/nl3znjy All together now “Bermuda Triangle.. It makes people disappear.. Bermuda Triangle … Don't go too near..”

M Bill Hanbury

In only 7 hours \RX FDQ Á \ WR WKH MHZHO RI WKH $WODQWLF

Home to pink sands, turquoise waters, colonial charm,

BERMUDA o

and temperatures averaging 29 C from April to October Cambridge Beaches Resort & Spa from £1,999pp

SAVE £664 per couple per week

Travel Talks Picture: Bermuda Tourism

Based on 2 sharing a water view room on a b&b basis, departing 2 April, includes return Á LJKWV IURP *DWZLFN DQG SULYDWH WUDQVIHUV

Call 0800 008 7288

www.classic-collection.co.uk

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February 21 2014

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Ever thought of Bermuda? It has it all Sun, Sea and Sand!

It’s a great time to book - with excellent offers.

Prices start from as little as ÂŁ1148 per person for 7 nights at Grotto Bay, saving ÂŁ473 per couple.

Why not fly home Club World from as little as ÂŁ1389 per person one way.

Add a few nights in New York, Boston or Toronto, we can easily arrange that too!

Don’t forget you will receive Love to Shop vouchers for each booking made.

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

PRESTIGE H O L I D A Y S

.C O.U K

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BUILDING ON the popularity of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Universal Orlando Resort will bring to life some of the experiences and places found in and around London in the Harry Potter books and films. Diagon Alley and ‘London’ will be located within Universal Studios Florida, which is adjacent to Universal’s Islands of Adventure, where guests can now experience Hogwarts and Hogsmeade. When complete, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley will feature shops, a restaurant and a marquee attraction based on Gringotts bank. Guests will be able to travel between ‘London’ and Hogsmeade on the Hogwarts Express.

For details see http://trade.visitorlando.com/

Germany’s Europa-Park welcomes record number of visitors in 2013 GERMANY’S EUROPA-Park ended its 2013 season with a record number of visitors at almost five million people, the highest number since it opened in 1975.

Roland Mack, owner of the theme park, said: “Our extended service has paid off. Winter opening has become a stimulus for growth with close to 500,000 visitors in this year alone. On peak days, we had up to 25,000 visitors, the likes of which we had only ever seen in the summer season, and the proportion of first

time visitors has been higher in winter than in summer.”

The park’s next major attraction, ‘Arthur - In the Minimoys Kingdom’, is based on the ‘Arthur and the Invisibles’ films and has been developed in co-operation with the trilogy’s director, Luc Besson.

Scheduled to open on April 5, the attraction has received an investment of €20m and will cover an area of more than 3,500m². The centrepiece of the new attraction is a ride constructed by the Mack

Rides company.

For more information see www.europapark.de The Big Wheel

Merlin Entertainments announces launch of Angry Birds 4D experience at Thorpe Park MERLIN ENTERTAINMENTS has announced a new partnership with Finland-based Rovio Entertainment, creator of the Angry Birds franchise, to premiere the world’s first Angry Birds 4D experience at its Surrey theme park resort, Thorpe Park.

Scheduled to open in May, the experience will form the centrepiece of a new 4000sq m fully-themed land featuring Angry Birds characters, coming home to roost on Detonator – the resort’s 100ft drop tower ride - while Red Bird and the Bad Piggies go bump to bump on a new dodgems attraction.

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The 4D Experience is being jointly developed by Rovio and 4D animators 3DBA, including a new ten minute 4D animated film.

Mark Fisher, chief development officer for Merlin Entertainments, said: “We are very excited to be working with Rovio and we see this as a long-term strategic partnership with great benefits to both parties. Young adults and family visitors are the core target audience of the Angry Birds franchise and no one is better placed than Merlin to capture the fun and humour of this new attraction."

February 21 2014

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themeparks Seven Dwarfs Mine Train ready to roll at Walt Disney World Florida WHEN IT opens in spring, the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, inspired by the classic Disney film ‘Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs’, will take guests on a musical ride into the mine and through the rolling countryside surrounding the mine. A stone bridge over a creek leads guests to the entrance of the attraction - the rustic cottage of the Dwarfs.

The family-style coaster will feature a first-of-its-kind train of ride vehicles mounted in cradle-like pivots that allow the cars to swing back and forth during the ride.

The journey will be accompanied by music from the film and there’s a cast of animated figures of Snow White, the Seven Dwarfs and a collection of playful forest critters. An interactive queue will also feature activities themed to mining.

April launch of PortAventura’s new interactive water adventure attraction PORTAVENTURA IS surprising this season’s visitors with a new attraction: Angkor: Adventure in the Lost Kingdom.

The new attraction, which will open on April 11 to coincide with the start of the park's 2014 season, is inspired by the Asian jungles and offers a 300 metres water boat ride.

Located in the China area of the resort near Shambhala (Europe’s highest rollercoaster), visitors will board rafts equipped with water guns to take on the dangers they will face in the jungle ahead. Their journey will take

them through different areas full of surprises and interactive challenges including mysterious villages, snakes that rise from the river, tigers hidden in caves, monkeys that inhabit ruined temples and stone elephants.

Passengers can shoot at them with their water jets or take aim at other boats and onlookers.

The park has also announced that Cirque du Soleil will be performing its latest presentation, KOOZA, offering acrobatics and excitement.

For more information see www.portaventura.co.uk

ATTRACTION WORLD is offering nine days for the price of seven for breaks at Walt Disney World Resort Florida booked before June 30 and taking place until December 31. Prices under the offer lead in at £317 per adult and £301 per child (aged three-nine). Agents who email their booking reference to Disney@attractionworld.com will also have the chance to grab one of 100 prizes including spa days, afternoon tea for two and comedy night tickets for two.

New high-speed attraction at Wet 'n Wild Orlando A HIGH-SPEED race awaits guests this summer when Wet ‘n Wild Orlando opens Florida’s tallest and fastest water-based racing attraction.

The Aqua Drag Racer will be six storeys tall and will propel guests through four lanes of head-to-head competition at 15ft per second before splashing them across the finish line.

For more information see www.wetnwildorlando.com

Free section at Benidorm's Terra Mitica

An artist’s impression of the new attraction

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February 21 2014

BENIDORM'S NEWEST theme park, Terra Mitica, has announced that it is offering a new free entrance section when it opens on April 11.

Iberia Park is a new playground area adjoining the theme park with free entrance and pay as you go rides. It hosts more than a dozen attractions, such as the Rapids of Argos and The Rescue of Ulysses, plus restaurants and entertainment such as ‘The Pirates of the Caribbean’ , a colourful

pirate show; and ‘The Magic Experience’, a new magic show featuring Jorge Moreno.

Meanwhile, in August the park is hosting the annual Electrobeach Festival in August, (from €30 for two days) that welcomes top international artists. The open-air stage of the park offers a hillside location overlooking the Benidorm coastline.

For more information see www.terramiticapark.com/ en and www.lovebenidorm.co.uk

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Europe’s Third Leading Theme Park

Efteling - World of Wonders For more than 60 years, Efteling has been a magical world full of wondrous fairy tales, breath-taking attractions and beautiful nature, where one cannot get enough. Students, clubs, families or seniors – at Efteling everyone will be enchanted: by the amazing fairy tale forest, the rollercoasters and many other attractions or the 72 hectares of the park’s beautiful scenery.

With over 4 million visitors in 2012, Efteling is the Netherlands’ most popular day out and can count itself among Europe’s leading theme parks. Efteling is open all year round.

Entrance Prices 2014 – 2015*: Rack Rate (Adults) € 35.00 p.p.

Schools Regular € 18.00 p.p. * Prices are valid from the 3rd of March 2014 until the 1st of March 2015

For more information about Efteling, please contact Ms. Rianne Hovens, Account Manager Travel Trade, at rhovens@efteling.com or at +49 151 649 565 09.

For package deals for the travel trade industry, please contact Dutch incoming tour operator ITO Tours – exclusive partner of Efteling for the UK market: ITO Tours · Mr. Georg Kolarik Jr. · georgjr@itotours.nl | www.itotours.nl

EFTELING.COM

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themeparks Superbreak highlights packages to Alton Towers with new CBeebies Land AGENTS CAN now book packages to Alton Towers Resort with Superbreak that include the new CBeebies Land which opens on May 24. A host of rides, characters and attractions will be available, featuring many of CBeebies' most popular faces. Ideal for families with younger children, the operator features packages that include overnight accommodation and tickets to the theme park.

The new land will feature a range of attractions including Something Special Sensory Garden; In The Night

Garden Magical Boat Ride; Postman Pat’s Parcel Post route; Justin’s House Pie-O-Matic Factory; Tree Fu Tom Training Camp; Mike the Knight archery skills test; and sing and dance with the ZingZillas.

Packages lead in at £173 per family of four including a one-day entry to the park for all and one night at the Novotel Nottingham East Midlands.

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

Christmas bookings flood in for Gulliver’s with 2,000 tickets for 2014 now sold GULLIVER’S, THE family theme park company with attractions in Warrington, Matlock Bath and Milton Keynes, reports that it has had its best Christmas since 2009 and second best of all time.

Bookings for last Christmas were up 21% on 2012’s figures while a January sale this year has seen Christmas 2014 bookings flood in, with 2,000 customers already purchasing tickets.

The park's training and development manager, Dean Kimberley, said: “We had one of our best summers ever last year thanks to the mild weather making us more accessible, which continued through the winter. Coupled with us adding new attractions, this meant that visitors kept coming all year-round.

“Customers are much more pricesavvy nowadays so rather than ‘too

good to be true’ offers they are seeking great value year round, which is exactly what we give them. No gimmicks, no confusion - just good, honest family fun.”

The company reports that customers’ disappointment over the closure of other attractions helped them to boost trade during the festive period.

Kimberley said: “We had an email from one customer who had booked to visit a London attraction which closed at the last minute due to stormy weather. She said we saved the day by staying open, with cheery staff and well-organised meals and grotto visits."

The Warrington and Milton Keynes parks are now open, while SplashZone (Warrington and Milton Keynes), Spy Zone (Matlock Bath only) and Nerf Zone (Matlock Bath and Milton

Keynes) attractions are open yearround.

For more information visit www.gulliversfun.co.uk

Jet2holidays offers Disneyland Paris in City & Short Breaks brochure

FRED.\ IS promoting short breaks and tailor-made holidays to Europa-Park, Germany’s largest theme park. A special focus for the park this year is 200 years of the Brothers Grimm fairytales, and from this summer there be a special feature about the Brothers Grimm in Grimm’s Enchanted Forest. The park’s themed area has also been expanded to include six more of the famous fairytales. Agents looking to work with the operator can call 0808-159 5256 or e-mail Lawrence@fred.travel

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February 21 2014

JET2HOLIDAYS IS offering Disneyland Paris package breaks for this summer.

Holidays are available from April 3 with a range of deals offered including free nights at exclusive Disney hotels, free child places and free park tickets with unlimited access.

The operator has a selection of accommodation options, all secured with a £60 deposit. As examples, Disney’s Hotel Santa Fe is one of the value options, located a short journey from Disneyland Park. Inspired by the iconic Route 66, the hotel features themed rooms and guests will have the chance to meet Disney characters.

Packages are available from £380 per person, based on two adults and one child.

Alternatively, Disney's four-star Hotel New York offers spacious rooms and an ice rink, with packages available from £482 per person, based on two adults and one child.

Free accommodation and park tickets for kids (ages six and under) are valid on arrivals until November 12 inclusive, while kids under 12 receive free hotel and park tickets up to April 2.

For more information visit www.jet2holidays.com/disneyland-paris, call 0800-408 5587 or see https://tradesite.jet2holidays.com

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themeparks Legoland Windsor revamps Pirates Landing attraction for March opening LEGOLAND WINDSOR Resort has revamped its Pirates Landing attraction to become the new Pirate Shores.

The area will feature Castaway Camp, a new pirate adventure play area; more than 100 new models and themed features on the Pirate Falls Treasure Quest log flume ride; a new themed restaurant; a Jolly Rocker Pirate Ship ride; and Pirate Goldwash.

Other popular attractions include the Atlantis Submarine Voyage ride; the Viking boat; water rapids on the Vikings’ River Splash; The Dragon rollercoaster (or the Dragon’s Apprentice for little ones); Driving School; and Star Wars Miniland.

Guests have the option to extend their visit to a short break at the 150-room hotel with its Pirate, Kingdom

and Adventure bedrooms, indoor play features, restaurant and lakeside play and outdoor seating area.

The park is open from March 14 to November 4 and advance online tickets lead in at £35.10 for adults,

£31.05 for children (free for under-threes) and £132.50 for families (two adults and two children).

Meanwhile, family rooms (two adults and two children) at the hotel start from £247 in low season or from £337 in high season.

Prices include breakfast, park tickets for two days plus early bird access to selected rides (special rates are available for Annual Pass Holders and Merlin Annual Pass Holders) For more information visit www.legoland.co.uk

New Ratatouille-themed attraction to be unveiled at Disneyland Paris A NEW attraction is set to open in Walt Disney Studios Park that will take guests into the world of the Oscar-winning Disney/Pixar movie Ratatouille, which tells the tale of Remy – a talented young rat who dreams of becoming a renowned French chef. Disney storytelling and state-ofthe-art technology will come together in this larger-thanlife Parisian experience.

Euro Disney chairman, Philippe Gas, said: “By developing this new Ratatouille attraction, we continue to ensure our guests can experience their favourite Disney stories in memorable ways that only Disney can provide.

The theme, which is very français, is a tribute to our capital and the unforgettable characters that make Ratatouille the ideal choice for an attraction that fits perfectly at Disneyland Paris.”

New rides launched at Cedar Point theme park

PICTURED GETTING ready to welcome guests to one of the new Hello Kitty attractions in mid-May are staff from Drusillas Park in East Sussex. The new attraction, Hello Kitty Secret Garden, will feature three children’s rides including the tea cup (pictured).

For details visit www.drusillas.co.uk

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February 21 2014

TWO NEW rides will greet visitors in May at Cedar Point theme park, located in the Great Lakes USA. The new Pipe Scream ride will take visitors on more than 302ft of track, flying 43ft above the midway at 43mph.

Across from Pipe Scream, visitors can embark on the updated Lake Erie Eagles ride. Riders will sit in one of eight ‘eagles’ suspended from arms 28ft in the air. As the ride spins, the eagles will swing outwards and riders will have the opportunity to control their flight experience from mild to wild.

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Marsaxlokk, Malta

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BELLEAIR HOLIDAYS is offering a seven-night, all-inclusive stay at the four-star Seabank Resort & Spa from £639 per person. It includes flights from Heathrow, transfers and complimentary entrance to a selected Malta attraction. The offer is subject to availability and is based on two adults sharing for a March 3 departure.

For details see www.belleair.co.uk/agents or call 0845-365 3412.

Insight Vacations offers new 11-day Med sailing itinerary from £1,960 INSIGHT VACATIONS' Exotics Collection brochure is new for 2014 and features a range of premium escorted journeys, a new destination plus a choice of Signature hotels, dining and experiences across new and existing itineraries.

A new 11-day 'Mediterranean Fables' itinerary has been added which allows guests to cruise on a voyage of discovery around the Mediterranean, visiting a range of islands.

Highlights include a sightseeing tour of Athens and

Istanbul, including a sail along the Bosphorus; visits to Santorini, Crete and Rhodes; as well as taking in Symi, considered to be one of the most picturesque islands of the Dedocanese, and Mykonos.

Prices lead in at £1,960 based on two sharing, including flights, transfers, ten nights' breakfast accommodation, 13 additional meals, transport in air-conditioned coaches and taxes.

For more information visit www.insightvacations.com

Classic highlights selection of early booking offers with savings of up to £231 CLASSIC COLLECTION is promoting a range of early booking offers applicable to a variety of Mediterranean islands for this summer.

Examples include savings of up to £231 per person, per week for clients staying at the Constantinou Asimina Suites in Cyprus between April 1 and October 31, with a complimentary upgrade to half-board when booked before April 30.

In Sardinia, clients booked to travel between May 24 and September 20 will receive savings of up to £273 per person per week at the Hotel Capo d’Orso Thalasso & Spa, or savings of up to £238 per person per week, on travel for the same dates, at the Valle dell’Erica Resort Thalasso & Spa, if booked before February 28.

On the island of Mallorca, the operator is offering savings of £175 per person per week at the Iberostar Playa de Muro

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Asimina Suites Hotel, Cyprus

Village for early bookers travelling between April 11 and October 18.

Savings of up to £140 per person, per week are also available at the Minos Beach in Crete between April 27 and October 31, as well as £70 savings at the

Westin Dragonara, Malta between May 1 and October 31, when booked by February 28.

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

February 21 2014

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mediterraneanisland Property additions for summer from Corsican Places CORSICAN PLACES has added a further two properties to its summer holiday collection.

Some 15 new accommodation options are now available from the specialist for the forthcoming season, bringing the total to more than 160 choices.

New options include the two-bedroom Villa Paesanu, which sleeps up to four people and is located on the heights of Bocca del’Oro, a small residential hamlet south of Porto Vecchio. The property is ideal for families and couples and features an open-plan layout, a southfacing terrace with views of the sea and a large swimming pool. The beaches of Palombaggia and Santa Giulia are a short trip away by car.

Prices lead in at £694 per person for a week’s holiday based on four sharing and include car hire and flights from Heathrow.

Alternatively, the onebedroom Apartment St Philippe provides ideal accommodation for two in the heart of the historic town of Calvi, North West Corsica, with views of the bay and a short walk from the beach.

Prices start from £699 per person for a week’s holiday based on two sharing and include transfers and flights from Stansted or Manchester.

For more information call 0845-330 2113 or visit www.corsica.co.uk

Think Ionian Islands introduces new islands and villas to portfolio THE THINKING Traveller has announced the addition of new villas in Corfu, Paxos and Antipaxos to its 2014 collection.

The four villas on Corfu are situated between Kassiopi in the northeast and the yachting marina of Gouvia halfway up the east coast, offering sea views, panoramic pools and daily maid service.

Just over an hour’s hydrofoil ride from Corfu

are the islands of Paxos and Antipaxos where the operator has a further three new villas.

Meanwhile, new additions are being offered in Lefkada and Meganissi.

Lefkada sees the addition of two new villas Maristella and Filoniki, which offer panoramic infinity pools and are ideal for couples or small families. For larger groups, Elies, which sleeps

14, is also new and is located just outside Lefkada town.

New to Meganissi is Panorea, a seafront villa with an infinity pool just steps away from the Ionian Sea. Villa prices lead in at €1,670 per week based on a villa which sleeps six.

To book or for more information call 020-7377 8518 or visit www.thinkionianislands.com

Filoxenia Hotel, Paxos

AS PART of the Marbella Beach Hotel Corfu’s winter refurbishments, the hotel is constructing 16 new Family Garden View rooms, which provide direct access to the gardens where parents can let their children play. A total of €1m has also been invested in the construction of a new tunnel which passes under the road to allow guests to walk from the hotel to the beach. The property is also opening a new Greek Taverna-style restaurant as well as a new bar which will be open all day. Classic Collection offers seven nights from £2,239 for a family of four sharing a family room on a half-board basis. Prices for all-inclusive start from £2,836 and both include flights from Gatwick and private transfers, based on a May 12 departure.

For details call 0800-294 9318 or see www.classic-collection.co.uk

Just Sardinia adds new all-inclusive properties & agent booking incentive JUST SARDINIA has introduced three all-inclusive properties on the east coast of Sardinia to its 2014 holiday collection: Cala della Torre, Li Cupulatti Village and Marina Country Resort.

Prices start from £850 per family for a seven-night stay at the Cala della Torre Village based on two adults and two children (from two to 17 years) sharing and travelling on May 24. The price excludes flights, transfers and car hire and includes a 10% early booking discount which is

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February 21 2014

available until February 28. From March 1 to May 31, a 5% discount applies. Prices without the discount are from £937.

Direct flights from Gatwick to Olbia are available throughout the season with Meridiana at £224 per person.

Agents making a booking with the operator for a 2014 holiday by April 30 will receive a £15 Love2Shop voucher.

For more information call 01202-484858 or visit www.justsardinia.co.uk

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Ibiza debut from SLH SMALL LUXURY Hotels of the World (SLH) has announced its first property on the Balearic Island of Ibiza.

Hacienda Na Xemena will form part of the company's portfolio when it reopens this spring after a full refurbishment.

Built into Ibizaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s northern cliffs, the luxury hotel offers views of the Balearics and the new acquisition brings the SLH Balearic member count up to five.

For more information see www.slh.com

THE HARD Rock Hotel Ibiza, set to open on May 18, has announced the Ibiza International Music Summit (IMS) as its first major event. The hotel will kick off its first season on May 21 with the launch of the music summit, which in the last seven years has grown from an intimate group of music leaders to a major opening weekend on the island.

For details visit www.hrhibiza.com

ILIOS TRAVEL has added a new selection of family villas in Taormina, Sicily. Offering private pools and accommodation for up to eight people, prices lead in at ÂŁ2,345 per week on a self-catering basis.

For details see www.iliostravel.com

0$/7$ Prestige Holidays offer the best prices in Malta and Gozo.

We have fantastic offers including free nights and free room upgrades.

Prices from only ÂŁ694 at a 5 star hotel for a week in October.

We can book any flight from any airport, for any length of stay.

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Prestige Holidays on 01425 480400 or www.prestigeholidays.co.uk/malta

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mediterraneanisland We asked our staff the following question this week: What song would you say best sums you up?

Publisher: Jeanette Ratcliffe jeanette.ratcliffe@travelbulletin.co.uk Brown Eyed Girl by Van Morrison

Editor: Lauretta Wright lauretta.wright@travelbulletin.co.uk I’m Too Sexy by Right Said Fred

Assistant Editor: Jill Sayles jill.sayles@travelbulletin.co.uk Devil Woman by Cliff Richard

Contributing Editor: Paul Scudamore post@travelbulletin.co.uk It's Been A Hard Day's Night (or Come Fly With Me)

Sales Director: Simon Eddolls simon.eddolls@travelbulletin.co.uk Diva by Dana International

Advertisement Manager: Tim Podger tim.podger@travelbulletin.co.uk Baggy Trousers by Madness

Online Sales Manager: Nick Boocock nick.boocock@travelbulletin.co.uk "Harder Than You Think" by Public Enemy. Undiscovered for years, then suddenly a big hit in 2012

Account Manager: Bill Coad bill.coad@travelbulletin.co.uk YMCA by the Village People

Sales Executive: Chris Gascoine chris.gascoine@travelbulletin.co.uk My Way by Ol' Blue Eyes

Sales Executive: Matt Gill matt.gill@travelbulletin.co.uk Crazy Frog by Axel F

Senior Designer: Genaro Santos genaro.santos@travelbulletin.co.uk Everything Is Awesome (The AWESOME!! Version) LEGO OST

Assistant Designer: Nicky Valsamakis nicky.valsamakis@travelbulletin.co.uk Gangnam Style by PSY

Production: Nick Salt production@travelbulletin.co.uk Because I Got High by Afroman

Circulation Manager: Jim Merchant post@travelbulletin.co.uk Travel Bulletin is published by Alain Charles Publishing (Travel) Ltd University House, 11-13 Lower Grosvenor Place, London, SW1W 0EX, Tel: 020-7834 6661 Printed by: Wyndeham Grange Limited Subscriptions are £125 p.a. £195 overseas ISSN: 0956-2419

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February 21 2014

MALLORCA HOTELS is highlighting the 85th anniversary of Hotel Illa d’Or in Puerto Pollensa which reopens on February 28 after the completion of Phase two of a major renovation and refurbishment programme. All 120 rooms and suites at the four-star property have been renovated and refurbished in a bright, contemporary style with neutral and marine tones to reflect its seafront location.

Some public areas have also been refurbished.

For details see www.hotelillador.com

Palma de Mallorca highlighted as year-round destination THE SPANISH Tourist Office in London and the Tourism Foundation Palma de Mallorca 365 have launched a new tourism initiative geared towards making the Balearic Island a year-round destination for Brits.

Almost 2.5m Brits visited Mallorca last year, a 7.2% year-on-year increase, however, seasonality is high and it continues to be considered as a summer beach destination, with almost 70% of those tourists choosing to visit between June and September. UK travellers are now being encouraged to experience the variety of cultural and entertainment options on offer year-round.

According to the Mallorca Hotel Business Federation, the city houses 8,000 hotel rooms, of which 80% are four- and five-star rated – positioning the city as third in Spain in terms of hotel capacity. Within a ten minute radius, the city offers five golf courses and nine marinas for sailing, as well as 105 miles of trekking routes and 780 miles of cycling paths. The focus for 2014 is to highlight eight key products on offer in the city - culture, sports, sailing, cruises, gastronomy, shopping, MICE and entertainment.

For more information visit www.palmademallorca.es

Contiki offers new eight-day Greek sailing option from £734 CONTIKI HOLIDAYS has issued its new 2014 Europe brochure featuring a range of new tours from which to explore the continent.

The Backstage Pass to Europe has been given greater emphasis and gives guests the option of jumping the queue at many popular attractions from the Vatican Musuem in Rome to Paris’ iconic Eiffel Tower. The increase of Me Time (free time) optional excursions has also risen from 50 to 100 across Europe, giving guests the ability to customise their trip.

Meanwhile, a new addition to the brochure is a 'Greek Sailing' trip which gives guests the chance to explore the lesser known gems of the Saronic Coast.

The itinerary begins in the historical capital of Athens with an introduction to crew and fellow travellers. The eight-day trip continues on to the fishing village of Perdika where guests can explore the picturesque setting before settling down for a full Greek fare. Hydra is the next port of call and can be explored on foot or by donkey, followed by a sailing to Nafplio, which offers a mix of neoclassical buildings and historical fortresses amongst quaint shops and restaurants.

Other highlights of the trip include visits to Spetses, Dhokos, Poros and Aegina.

Prices start from £734 per person, land-only and include seven nights in twoberth accommodation on a sailing yacht, seven breakfasts, a dedicated skipper, plus port and visitor taxes.

For more information visit www.contiki.com

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Highlighted Word: ESTONIA Travagrams: (top) Rocky Mountaineer

(bottom) Basel

Where Am I?: The Yangtze River

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Get 2014 off to a great start with

TRAVEL AGENT

AFFILIATE PROGRAMME

This year we’re bringing you…

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UK trade sales team – please contact us to arrange a meeting / training etc

SPECIAL OFFER Register a new account with us at www.expedia.co.uk/taap and make a booking by the end of March to receive a £20 voucher

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