Travel Bulletin 22nd November 2013 by Alain Charles Publishing

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November 22 2013 | ISSUE NO 1,851 | www.travelbulletin.co.uk

Cruising How to use social media the right way for your cruise business

this week agent bulletin 9 find out what's in store for Sagittarius this month

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

portugal & madeira

operators unveil latest additions to 2014 programmes

far east HKTB launches new look trade portal

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Where you can dine out, meet new friends and have a wild time...

experience the difference

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

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newsbulletin

Cover Pictures: Main - Fred. Olsen - Fotoseeker

Inset - Vila Vita Parc

This Week 3

news

notes from normanton

agent bulletin

puzzle bulletin

staff review

airline bulletin

hotel bulletin

portugal & madeira

cruising

far east

MOTOR MATES...Affordable Car Hire has secured an exclusive deal to provide car hire solutions to more than 100 travel agencies operated by The Midcounties Co-operative and Barrhead Travel. As well as supporting the retail travel agency branches, Affordable will also provide a dedicated car hire resource to more than 150 home workers within The Midcounties Co-operative and Barrhead Travel network. Pictured marking the announcement are, from the left: Julie Kendrick and Joanne Muir from Midcounties Co-operative with Angela Day and Natalie Mclean, Affordable Car Hire.

this week's latest industry announcements & reports Sandy has been busy attending industry events find out what's in store for Sagittarius this month try your luck at Su Doku for a chance to win £50 in M&S vouchers we check out Sopwell House near St Albans which has undergone a £2.8m refurb Gulf Air issues new seasonal promotion Marriott expands in Europe with first hotel in Bosnia & Herzegovina operators highlight latest additions to 2014 programmes CLIA explains how to use social media the right way for your cruise business Hong Kong Tourism Board launches new look trade portal

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Long-Haul Trend Report from H&J reveals luxury travel is on the increase as five-star hotels outperform lower star ratings Travellers are looking for luxury properties as five-star hotels outperform lower star ratings during the first nine months of the year, according to the latest Long Haul Trend Report by Hayes & Jarvis. According to the operator, the increase in demand for five-star holidays has been driven largely by the value deals available in the Dominican Republic, Mauritius and Mexico. At the same time, holidaymakers are continuing to book later as they hunt for the best value, last minute holidays. Destinations showing great successes for the lates market include Vietnam, with late bookings up 140% compared to the same time last year. South Africa (76% increase), Mauritius (up 24%) and Africa (up 16%) are also proving to be popular late booking destinations. Sean Dowd, the company's head of commercial, said: “The Dominican Republic appears to be ticking all of the boxes this year in terms of price, service and quality. It is definitely an option after mid-haul destinations in terms of offering great value and its service levels have increased two fold in recent years with standards of quality now some of the best in the Caribbean. In the last month alone we have seen bookings to the destination up a staggering 119%, which shows the real potential it has.” Following the trend earlier in the year, New York, Thailand and Las Vegas are still sitting as the top three destinations for the operator. However, the fastest growing destination has been Vietnam – which has ballooned 87%. Dowd said: “Vietnam is that ‘next step’ for travellers looking to explore Asia, perhaps after visiting Thailand. The access to the country has opened up over the past year or so with direct flights from Gatwick to Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City with Vietnam Airlines.” The desire to see more in a single trip is also continuing to grow according to the report, with multi-centre bookings now accounting for more than a quarter of the company's business. The multi-centre options showing the strongest potential for this year are Africa’s beach/safari (up by 112%) and India tours (271% increase). Hawaii is also seeing growth as a multi-centre destination, with customers choosing to stop in a US city beforehand. Dowd said: “We have seen a 10% growth in our tailormade bookings since the beginning of the year with multi-centre trips accounting for more than 25% of our business. A growing number of travellers want to experience more than one destination in one trip – whether it’s beach and a safari or discovering hidden Asian gems– our customers are keen to explore.”

November 22 2013

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newsbulletin British Pullman and Northern Belle steward joins High Street agents ARRIVING SOON to a number of High Streets travel agents is a new life-size cardboard steward from the British Pullman or Northern Belle, sister trains to the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. ‘Alexis’ has been created along with several other items, such as note pads, adverts and table top displays as key selling tools for agents. The trade collateral will help bring the experience on both trains to life and inspire clients to book one of the varied luxury day trips throughout the UK - ideal presents for friends and family in the run up to Christmas. Both trains operate year-round and combine

visits to some of the country’s best loved destinations with the finest traditions and heritage. The Northern Belle, based mainly in the north of the country, departs from more than 60 regional stations across the UK and offers a range of day and weekend journeys throughout the UK. The British Pullman departs from London Victoria and travels to places such as Bath, York and top sporting events year-round. Agents can request for Alexis to be part of the team and apply for the new collateral by registering on the dedicated website for travel professionals at www.orientexpress.com/pro For more information email sales.trainsandcruises@orient-express.com or call 020-3117 1420.

A fifth of engaged couples consider cruise wedding AFTER SEEING a steady increase in the amount of interest surrounding cruise weddings over the past 12 months, Bonvoyage.co.uk investigated further by finding out how many couples are currently considering planning alternative routes for their wedding day, and what exactly this would entail. The study polled 1,983 UK adults who were engaged to be married, but were yet to make any concrete plans or bookings for the big day. Respondents were initially asked if they were considering an 'alternative' wedding day; that was, any plans that would differ from traditional weddings. They were asked to select from a list and according to the poll, the top answers emerged as follows: Cruise wedding (19%), beach wedding (11%), ski/snow wedding (6%), themed wedding (3%) and a skydiving wedding (2%). Reasons for deciding on a cruise ship wedding included 'to save money', 'to make the ceremony more intimate' and 'it would be romantic'. Steph Curtin, the company's cruise development manager, said: "It is not particularly surprising to see one fifth of engaged couples are considering a cruise wedding. Not only does a cruise make a beautiful setting for such a special day, but the monetary benefits of choosing to marry on board a ship can be extremely tempting. Forget planning the invites, the food menu and evening DJ, with a cruise wedding one can effectively plan their entire wedding in one easy phone call. "People are really starting to see the range of benefits holding a cruise wedding can bring, especially with the convenience of being able to combine an easily planned, personalised ceremony, reception and honeymoon, all rolled into one.”

THANKS A MILLION...Lisa Eastlick (left) from Bath Travel in Ferndown made the one millionth Funway Holidays' booking for a family travelling to Orlando for two weeks staying at Disney’s AllStar Sports Hotel. Lisa collects her prize of £250 on her MoneyCard from the operator's business development manager, Jodean Whittington.

Papua New Guinea sees increase in tour operators featuring destination PAPUA NEW Guinea reports that it has seen increased demand from tour operators looking to feature the destination in their programmes. Enquiries from travellers also encouraged The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority in Port Moresby to organise a fam trip in September to enable

operators to experience the complete package of PNG products in their home environment and to discuss UK requirements with the suppliers. Since the London office of PNG Tourism Promotion Authority opened in January 2012, an increasing number of UK tour operators are now featuring the destination.

November 22 2013

Peter Vincent, the authority's CEO, said: “We have recently welcomed a steady increase in tourism from both the UK and Europe. We are also proud to announce that UK tourism figures for the period April to June 2013 show a 7.91% increase on the 2012 figures.” According to PNG, culture

and cruise are the two sectors of the market currently receiving increased interest, and currently one in every eight package holidays booked in the UK is a cruise, with P&O, Coralprincess, Noble-Caledonia, Orion Expeditions and Silversea Cruises all currently having or plan to have itineraries in the region.

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newsbulletin Sunset Faraway Holidays promotes kite surfing package SUNSET FARAWAY Holidays is offering a seven-night stay at The St. Regis Mauritius Resort from £2,995 per person for travel between May 1 and June 20, 2014. The price includes accommodation for two in a deluxe ocean view room on a half-board basis, a Kite Premium Package per person, flights from Gatwick with Emirates, transfers and all applicable taxes. The kite package includes semi-private lessons across three half days, suitable for all levels. For experienced kite surfers the package leads in at £2,569, replacing the Kite Premium Package with a week of material rental and storage. A range of activities are available at the resort include windsurfing, kayaking, pedal boats, glass-bottom boat trips and waterskiing, all without supplements. For details see www.sunset.co.uk or call 020-8774 7100.

Eurotours offers new packages to the Austrian-Czech border EUROTOURS INTERNATIONAL has launched new packages to the region of the Danube and Vltava rivers. Linz on the Danube offers the UNESCO World Heritage site of Cesky Krumlov in the Czech Republic, and the UNESCO site of Dachstein Salzkammergut is also only a stone’s throw away. London-Linz direct flights operate three times weekly with Ryanair.

Nevada Commission on Tourism announces plans to reopen first casino NEVADA’S FIRST casino, formerly owned by Frank Sinatra, the famous Cal Neva Resort at Lake Tahoe is set to reopen next year, following a multimillion dollar refurbishment. Robert Radovan, co-owner of Criswell-Radovan that Valley of Fire State Park, Nevada acquired the Cal Neva in April, said: "The hotel and casino will be upgraded in an effort to revive the property. Our goal is to bring it back to its former glory and to make it what it was like in Sinatra’s day." The hotel will be transformed into a luxury resort by upgrading rooms with modern amenities, while the casino will be redesigned in a classic style. The resort is scheduled to reopen on December 12, 2014, which would have been Sinatra's 99th birthday. Meanwhile, the destination is marking 150 years of becoming the 36th state to enter the union of the United States of America with a one-year celebration. More than 150 events will take place over the next year, including local favourites such as the Annual Chili Feed and the Beard Contest on Nevada Day. For more information see www.travelnevada.com

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newsbulletin Tweets of the Week Who’s saying what on Twitter... @discovercruises We’ve just launched a brand new video promoting Cruise holidays. Fun, relaxation, adventure, you’ll find it all here http://ow.ly/qHaCY @visitlondon DON'T MISS: breathtaking theatre, music & acrobatics in this fun show for all the family.17-31 Dec @southbankcentre http://ow.ly/q0MPX @T2News Win a FAM trip to Brazil! Make a qualifying booking with 3 days ground arrangements with @blumarturismo to be entered http://ow.ly/i/3GLrx

Newsbites ●

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DUBAI’S HOTEL industry is being provided with a financial incentive to increase the city’s offering of three- and four-star hotels as part of Dubai Tourism’s strategy to achieve 20 million annual visitors to Dubai by 2020. The new initiative has been designed to encourage the development of more mid-range hotels and to bring forward their construction dates by granting new hotels a waiver on the standard 10% Municipality Fee levied on nightly hotel room rates. Investors in new hotels will receive the waiver for four years from the date the permit to construct is granted. GREAT LAKES USA has launched a new dedicated sports travel brochure. It includes professional sports such as football, baseball, hockey, basketball, soccer and golf as well as sports activities and events typical to each region. It also highlights the diverse range of sporting experiences to be had in the Great Lakes as well as include fun, unusual facts about the sports, teams and stadiums. DELPHINA HOTELS & Resorts, which offers a range of destinations on the northern Sardinian coast in Gallura, is aiming to further establish itself within the UK market and raise awareness of its services and experiences. The company is focusing on highlighting its quality accommodation, along with Sardinia's cuisine and scenery. UNITED AIRLINES’ subsidiary MileagePlus and MBNA have launched a new MileagePlus Credit Card Account for eligible new customers in the UK. The card has no annual fee and offers new customers the opportunity to build MileagePlus bonus award miles on all of their spending. It also offers 0% interest on all United Airlines' transactions for 12 months from the date the account is opened and comes with two credit cards – one American Express-branded card and one Visa card. For details see www.united.com

Special trade rates to Lapland from Transun

@ClassicHols Luxury Deal of the Day, 4* Constantinou Bros Athena Royal Beach Hotel, Cyprus, 7 nts, B&B dep from 9 Dec from £499pp http://www.classic-collection.co.uk/deal-of-the-day @superbreak #QUIZ TIME! Find out what you know about Europe & its cities with our new anagram quiz! http://bit.ly/1aE7kTB

YEEHAA...Celebrating the launch of British Airways' flights from Heathrow to Austin, Texas, five times weekly from March 3, 2014 and increasing to daily services from May 5 are, from the left: Richard Tams, British Airways; Julie Chase, Austin Convention & Visitors Bureau; and Brad Smyth, tourism director Texas.

EVA Air boosts online agent training with new manual TRAVEL AGENTS now have the latest information about EVA Air’s product and services available at the click of a mouse, following the launch of a new online training manual. Available at www.evaagent.com/en, the manual covers everything agents might need to know about Taiwan’s leading independent carrier, including routes and schedules, fleet, in-flight services and the airline’s frequent flyer programme, InfinityMileageLands. With important key developments this year, the carrier has launched the manual to further boost agent awareness of its services and network. This summer saw the airline join the global Star Alliance network, while it also introduced a new Business Class cabin, Royal Laurel Class, to its Boeing 777 fleet. This means the upgraded service is available on its daily flights from Heathrow to its home hub in Taipei, operating via Bangkok. A key feature of the new training manual is a toggle to give agents instant information on the airline’s code-sharing services with its Star Alliance partners.

November 22 2013

TRANSUN IS offering special trade rates on selected family holidays to see Santa in Lapland with discounts of up to £700 per person. The exclusive trade prices start from £499 per person for a three-night Lapland break with flights departing from Luton on December 11, offering a saving of £700 compared to direct booking prices. The operator's director of trading, Nico Kostich, said: “These rates are almost half our original brochure prices to ensure that agents have a competitive advantage when selling Santa Lapland breaks. This will encourage customers to go to their local travel agent for the best prices and is part of our ongoing commitment to working with the trade.” For further information or to book visit www.transun.co.uk/agents or call 01865-265200.

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FR 3 N O IG M H ÂŁ6 T 89 S PP

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WIN A FLY DRIVE HOLIDAY TO THE FLORIDA BEACHES* -J ]SY [SYPH PMOI XS IWGETI XLI 9/ ERH Âž] [MXL :MVKMR %XPERXMG XS XLI *PSVMHE &IEGLIW JSV E RMKLX HYVEXMSR PSSO RS JYVXLIV ;MXL WS QER] QYWX WII HIWXMREXMSRW E Âž] HVMZI LSPMHE] MW XLI TIVJIGX [E] XS HMWGSZIV XLI XVYI diversity that Florida has to offer. 8S FI MR [MXL E GLERGI SJ [MRRMRK SRI SJ SYV Âž] HVMZI LSPMHE]W WMQTP] ZMWMX www.funway4agents.co.uk and complete our short survey. With 8 up for grabs, you have more chance than ever before! All completed surveys will be entered into a prize draw with the winners being chosen at random shortly after the closing date. HOLIDAY DESTINATION(S) & DURATION

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newsbulletin Florida deal from DoSomethingDifferent

Notes from . . . n o t n a m r o N

DOSOMETHINGDIFFERENT is offering savings on three of Florida’s popular attractions. For a limited period, a three-park SeaWorld, Aquatica and Busch Gardens is the same price as the two-park tickets: SeaWorld and Busch Gardens and SeaWorld and Aquatica. The three-park ticket allows unlimited admission to all three parks for up to 14 days and, at the moment, costs less than two single day admission tickets, offering 42 days of theme park fun in total for the price of two days. The tickets also include free coach transport to Busch Gardens from Orlando on the Busch Gardens Shuttle Express. Prices lead in at £90 for adults and £85 for children. For details call 020-8090 3890.

Shop 'til you drop with Funway Holidays TTENDED A great coffee morning at High Ridings in Birstall in conjunction with Cyplon Holidays, with presentations from Mark Williams from Cyprotels Hotels & Resorts and Mark Richardson from Constantinou Bros Hotels. Have known both Marks for years, so it was lovely to see them again and they both did excellent presentations on their respective hotels and about Cyprus, which was very interesting. Mark surprised me at one stage by saying that he and the other Mark had both got married in Cyprus but of course he meant to their beautiful wives! It really is one of the best destinations for weddings and offers something for everyone - beaches, mountains, cycling, golfing, bowling, riding etc... My next event was organised by Bright and was held at the Majestic Hotel in Harrogate. It was a lovely small select group of 4 tour ops - Kathryn from Kirker, Simon from Hurtigruten, Natalie from Crystal Cruises and Greg from Cox & Kings. There were quick presentations and it was nice that the hosts moved around the table so that we all got a chance to chat with them. Hurtigruten have a great offer for customers who book a Classic Round Voyage including a direct charter flight departing in April - they receive a £250 discount off the price! Then I was off to Sheffield for an Aussie evening, organised by Travel 2. It was a great night – light hearted with quick presentations and nice buffet food and prizes to be won. I have added ‘visit Kangaroo Island’ on my ‘to do’ list - knowing me I would probably try and get a job and stay with them! I must say, having attended these events I am really pleased that everyone seems to be in very positive moods and happy with what they are doing - long may it continue. ‘A man begins cutting his wisdom teeth the first time he bites off more than he can chew’ and ‘The miracle is not to fly in the air, or to walk on the water, but to walk on the earth’.

by SANDRA MURRAY in Normanton, Yorkshire

IN THE run up to Black Friday, the biggest shopping day in the US - which this year falls on November 29, Funway is highlighting a range of deals offering plenty retail therapy. As examples, a seven-night stay in Orlando at the three-star Clarion Lake Buena Vista costs from £649 per person, including flights from Gatwick with Virgin Atlantic, based on a November 28 departure. In New York, a three-night break costs from £615 at the three-star Holiday Inn Midtown while in Los Angeles a three-night stay at the three-star Quality Inn near Hollywood Walk of Fame leads in at £649. Both include flights from Heathrow, based on a November 28 departure. For details see www.funway4agents.co.uk

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WEBSCLUSIVES ●

Here’s a great competition from Louisiana – the place where the music never stops, and most of it started. You can win up to £250 of Harrods vouchers by answering three quick questions. Go to www.travelbulletin.co.uk/competitions

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Win one of four Fam Trip places to South Africa, courtesy of South African Tourism. To enter, you must complete 3 modules on the SA Specialist training programme. Register and get training now on www.saspecialist.southafrica.net/za/en/

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Win a 7” Kindle Fire courtesy of Prestige Holidays. Enter now on www.travelbulletin.co.uk/competitions

All this and more at: To respond to any of Sandy’s comments email jill. sayles@travelbulletin.co.uk

November 22 2013

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

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agentbulletin Agent training ●

WENDY WU Tours has developed a new travel agent website and incentive club to support and reward agents.

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THE SITE offers essential information and marketing materials alongside inside knowledge to help agents build their expertise and convert sales in Asia.

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AGENTS CAN build up Wu points on a special Bambu Club card which can be converted into cash to be spent at major retail outlets – or can be saved up to spend on a ‘fill the fridge’, team dinner or an educational place.

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TO EARN points, agents can undertake a range of activities including attending the company's roadshows, completing Wuniversity, putting up window displays, completing training with the Wu Crew, sending out direct mail or eshots and attending Wendy Wu evenings. There will also be monthly booking incentives.

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MARK HARRIS, the operator's senior business development manager, said: “We have designed Bambu Club with agents in mind to not only help them sell Wendy Wu Tours but also reward them for doing so. Our trade partnerships continue to be a very important part of our business and our Bambu Club is part of our on-going commitment to the trade.” For more information visit www.bambuclub.co.uk

Agent competition VIRGIN LIMITE

D Edition is offering all UK retail travel agents the opportunity to win a luxury three-nigh t stay at its Swiss mountain retrea t in Verbier - The Lodge during summer 2014. All agen ts have to do is dress up their shop front window 'Virgi n Limited Edition' style and send through a picture displa ying their creative flair. Aimed at retail agencies located in and around the UK, contenders can choose any or all of the propertie s within the portfolio to promote and the more creative the y are, the better. The winning entry of the best shop window displa y will be announced the week com mencing January 13, 20 14 and will receive a three-nigh t stay at The Lodge for tw o people on an all-inclusiv e basis with transfers be tween Geneva Airport and The Lodge. To enter the competition email katherine.beach@v irginlimitededition.com who will then send out a Wind ow Dressing pack, which wil l include Virgin Limited Edition posters as well as the fam ous property ducks, t-shir ts & recipe cards to help agen ts. All entries must sen d photographic evidence of their window display to the email address above no later than December 31 .

It’s in the stars… What’s in store for Sagittarius? THE COSMOS seems to be urging you to explore your inner resources – perhaps to take up meditation and to find peace within yourself. By exploring your inner feelings this month, you may find that your circumstances experience a positive change. Meanwhile, it’s time to take care of some errands that are long overdue – you’ll feel much better for it afterwards! Lucky day: Thursday Lucky number: 21

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PAMPER PICK-UP...Sue Merce r from Ashdown Travel won Caribtou rs' Agent of the Month award for September af ter making three bookings with the operator in a month . Sue won a luxury spa day with treatments. November 22 2013

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newsbulletin Dedicated brochure launches from Kuoni KUONI HAS launched a new brochure, Discover Latin America, featuring more hotels, destinations, experiences and products. Detailed maps are included for all destinations and highlight the important places to visit and iconic sights such as Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail in Peru, the Iguacu Falls and Christ the Redeemer in Brazil and the Atacama Desert in Chile. Guides are also provided for each destination with expert tips from the company's personal travel experts who have travelled around Latin America, as well as destination highlights, events & festivals, best time to go, essentials, what to do, where to eat and the best places for shopping. New destinations have been added to Brazil including the capital city Brasilia; the city of Ouro Preto, a UNESCO World Heritage site; and the hidden town of Jericoacoara, Ceara on the Northern coast. More hotels and cruises have been added in Peru, Argentina, Chile, Brazil and Ecuador, some of which include the Aria Amazon in Peru, a luxury cruise ship which embarks on three-day expeditions along the Amazon and Insolito Boutique Hotel in Bouzios, Brazil, a retreat nestled in tropical gardens and overlooking Ferradura Beach. Also included is the Galapagos Safari Camp in the highlands of Santa Cruz at the edge of the Galapagos National Park. The Cavas Wine Lodge in Mendoza, Argentina is also new and offers organic produce accompanied by locally produced wine. Meanwhile, the company has introduced a dedicated India and Sri Lanka

brochure focusing on tailor-made itineraries and authentic experiences. The range features traditional and cultural journeys offering a glimpse of everyday life and a flavour of two unique Indian Ocean destinations. The company's product and commercial manager, Sarah Beckwith said: “Sri Lanka is our third bestselling destination for 2013 and is becoming best known for its excellent value car and driver option. An Englishspeaking guide and private car gives customers unlimited flexibility, invaluable local knowledge and a personal experience. "Tailor-made Sri Lankan itineraries could include Udawalawe National Park with jeep safaris and a visit to the Born Free accredited Elephant Transit Home for orphaned elephants. A new experience, which can be added to any Sri Lankan holiday, is a visit to the ancient city of Kandy, with its treasure trove of sightseeing opportunities including the Royal Botanical Gardens and Temple of the Tooth. "Sri Lanka’s beachfront retreats are also becoming increasingly popular, in particular the luxurious five-star Fortress Resort & Spa in Koggala which can be combined with the Nuwara Eliya tea plantations; blending beach with culture. In Northern India new flexible experiences have been added such as a three-night stay in Corbett National Park with jeep safaris, which can be booked from Delhi." The Discover India, Nepal, Bhutan and Sri Lanka brochure is valid for holidays from January 2014 to March 2015 and can be downloaded from www.kuoni.co.uk/brochures

November 22 2013

Port Ferdinand Luxury Marina and Residences, a new 16-acre development just north of Speightstown in Barbados from UNNA Luxury Resorts and Residences, will be launching in January 2014. It will offer 83 furnished apartments for sale and rental, with 120 berths of 50 and 60ft for those who want to bring their yacht. On site facilities include a gourmet food store, fine dining, golf simulator, sunset island and pool, concierge service and complimentary water taxi. Three-bedroom homes of 2,500sq.ft will be available to rent from US$1,500 per home, per night, from January 7 to April 14, and for $750 from April 15 to December 14. For details see www.stpetersbaybarbados.com and www.unnaliving.com

W&O issues combined Caribbean & US brochure WESTERN & Oriental has launched a new brochure for 2014, which, for the first time, includes a US programme and combines Caribbean & US travel options. New features include additional destinations such as Dominica, St Barths, St Kitts, Hawaii and small boat cruising in Cuba. Following on from the operator’s introduction of its new US collection of fly/drive, city breaks and escorted tours (in spring 2013), the brochure combines these options with its existing ranch holiday programme, Ranch America, as well as an extensive Caribbean portfolio for couples, families and small groups. New for the Caribbean are the lesser visited islands of St Kitts, St Barths and Dominica, as well as the Dominican Republic and fly/drive and boutique cruising options in Cuba. Hawaii has also been added to the US options and presents an ideal twin-centre destination with the US' West Coast. New England additions include the Vanderbilt Grace and several new high-end properties on the island of Nantucket. US prices start from £1,835 for a 15-day Classic New England itinerary including accommodation, car hire and flights. Caribbean prices start from £1,099 per person for a seven-night, all-inclusive stay at the Dreams La Romana, Dominican Republic with British Airways flights and private transfers. For more information or to book see www.westernoriental.com

Next year, in recognition of the 40th anniversary of Iceland’s ring-road, Promote Iceland will be highlighting self-drive tours of the country and encouraging people to explore the destination outside of Reykjavik. For details see www.visiticeland.com or email promoteiceland@promoteiceland.is

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puzzlebulletin Travagrams

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

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

Number: 137

Pricey Dogs Vet

A➠

B➠ This specialist operator offers voyages on the Nile

C➠

Hot Nil

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:

This hotel brand offers an ‘HHonors’ loyalty programme for its clientele

Where Am I?

competition@travelbulletin.co.uk Closing date for entries is Thursday, November 28th. Solution and new puzzle will appear next week. The winner for 8th November is Julie Tilt, Redwing Travel in Pembs. November 8 Solution: A=4 B=6 C=1 D=7

War fields in Belgium

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

Number: 137

Across 1. Sandals offers a number of holiday destinations on this island (7) 6. Neil, first man on the moon (9) 8. European carrier, ___ Air (7) 11. Caribbean island (7) 13. State capital of Maryland (9) 15. Actress Ms Portman, star of Black Swan and Thor (7)

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Down 1. Sean Conway finally arrived here after a four-month swim (4,1'6) 2. National flag-carrier of Lebanon, initially (3) 3. Ancient empire of Mexico (5) 4. Yellowstone National Park is located in this state (7) 5. Venetian tourist attraction on St Mark's Square (4,'1,6) 7. Helps you navigate your way around (3) 9. Capital of Cameroon (7) 10. Hotel brand, Holiday ___ (3) 11. Crystal can take you to this trendy American ski resort (5) 12. Tallinn airport code (3) 14. Roman sun god (3)

For the solution to the Crossword, Where Am I? and Travagrams, please see page 30 November 22 2013

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newsbulletin Rocky Mountaineer extends early booking bonus

agentreview Paul Scudamore from Travel Bulletin spent a "re-launch" night at Sopwell House near St Albans which has just seen a £2.8m refurbishment, with another £1.5m to be spent from early next year.

ROCKY MOUNTAINEER has extended its early booking bonus, rewarding travellers who plan ahead for their 2014 holiday. Up until December 20, GoldLeaf Service bookings of seven nights or more receive £400 per person in added value. The bonus is also available on qualifying packages of four to six nights at £200 per person in GoldLeaf Service. The new offer is valid on the company's SilverLeaf Service and RedLeaf Service at slightly reduced values. For more information see www.rockymountaineer.com

First impressions ....................................9/10 A very short driveway from the quaint Cottonmill Lane near St Albans reveals this three-storey Georgian property, once the country residence of Lord Mountbatten, and sitting in 12 acres with an adjacent golf course. The original house has been much extended and modernised to include a Country Club (to which all guests have free access) with pool, spa and gyms. There are extensive and flexible conference and meeting facilities, restaurant, brasserie and two bars.

Comfort ....................................................9/10 The public areas are excellently furnished and the two bars almost too comfortable to leave. Clever. Some 30 of the hotel's 129 rooms have been refurbished so far, introducing the new Executive category.

Quality ......................................................9/10 The attention to detail of fixtures and fittings oozes quality, with one or two exceptions, but this is a continuing refurbishment process. Dining in the restaurant was exceptional.

Affordability ............................................8/10 This is not a cheap option for a short stay, but then, with facilities like this you would expect to pay a premium. For rates and packages check www.sopwellhouse.co.uk

Service ....................................................9/10 Although there were no other guests at reception, checking in did take a long time - ten minutes while the charming checkin chap disappeared to see if the room was ready. However, all the staff without exception were courteous, efficient and clearly enjoyed what they were doing to please all their guests.

G Adventures launches new Comfort trips AN OVERNIGHT houseboat in Botswana, a historic heritage home in India, design suites in Argentina and a jungle lodge in Borneo are four forms of unique, upgraded accommodation travellers will experience on G Adventures’ expanded range of more than 100 Comfort trips in 2014. In response to increased demand, 21 new Comfort trips have been added to the programme, all featuring handpicked accommodation and extras such as airport transfers, private transport and more included meals. New experiences include a guided Chimpanzee walk in Rwanda, a rickshaw tour of Yogakarta in Indonesia, a Tibetan cooking demonstration, a blessing by Buddhist monks in Bhutan and a shared meal with a local family in Cappadocia, Turkey. Additionally, five of the new trips feature visits to Planeterra projects, the operator's non-profit organisation, which builds projects to help local people in the destinations travellers stay at. As an example of prices, a ten-day Botswana Safari offers touring in open jeeps and boats to seek out the Big Five, enjoy a sundowner at a homestay and cruise a secluded section of the Okavango Delta by houseboat. Prices are from £2,749 per person for departures from April to October 2014. For more information or to book call 0844-272 2040 or visit www.gadventures.co.uk

Good to know .......................... There's free Wi-Fi throughout the property which feels intimate and much more personal than similar sized hotels.

9/ 10

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

November 22 2013

PASSPORT TO GREECE...The first out of two ‘Passport to Greece’ agent events saw 20 travel agents boost their knowledge of Greece as they visited WTM exhibitors from the Aegean Islands to Skiathos, via gourmet food and wine courtesy of Santorini. As a result, four wiser agents found themselves lucky winners of the prize draw and won holidays to the Aldemar Hotel and Spa in Crete, an Airotel property of their choice and gourmet goodie bags. Pictured collecting their prizes are, from the left: Ann Barber, Travel Counsellors; Geraldine Gower, The Co-operative (who won two nights at an Airotel property); Cathie O’Dea, Travel Counsellors and first prize winner of five nights to the Aldemar Hotel and Spa in Crete; and Kathy Hudspith from ICH Premium Travel.

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newsbulletin Winter getaway launch from Fred. Olsen FRED. OLSEN Cruise Lines has launched a new winter getaway brochure to show guests where in the world a Fred. Olsen cruise can take them, from £61 per person, per night. For a limited time only, the company is removing single supplements and offering free transport on selected cruises and cabin grades for bookings made up to November 30 inclusive. On other cruises, guests will find special reductions on selected cabin grades for 2014/15. As examples, offers include Boudicca’s 15night ‘In Search of the Northern Lights’ cruise on February 6, 2014 for £1,399 per person. The deal is based on two sharing an inside, twin cabin and includes all meals and entertainment on board, plus port taxes. Braemar’s ten-night ‘Undiscovered Islands of the Canaries’ fly/cruise, which departs on January 7 is also being highlighted - as a cruise-only or fly/cruise option. Prices start from £649 per person, based on two sharing an inside, twin cabin and include all meals and entertainment on board, plus port/airport taxes and transfers. Alternatively, Balmoral’s 24-night ‘Wonders of Ancient & Modern Arabia’ cruise, departing Southampton on January 5, leads in at £1,499 per person, based on two adults sharing an inside, twin cabin. It includes all meals and entertainment on board, plus port/airport taxes and transfers. For more information visit www.fredolsencruises.com

Superbreak redesigns second edition London Breaks programme SUPERBREAK HAS launched its second edition London Breaks brochure with a new design that aims to showcase how simple it is to book a break to the capital. The edition includes 40 hotels (with more available online) and focuses on packaged products that include the hotel night plus other elements that help agents to drive up booking values. In addition, for the first time, the hotel pages have been broken down into districts within London such as The City, the West End and Docklands, Excel and Greenwich to help orientate customers. New additions include a Vintage Bus Tour and Tea at the Palace package from £83.50 per person; a Magic of London Tour Break from £128.50; a new package for Warner Bros. The Making of Harry Potter Studio Tour including an Oyster card for £49.50; a Fortnum and Mason Afternoon Tea package from £135; Vinopolis Wine Tasting from £60; and The BP exhibition – Vikings: Life and Legends at the British Museum from £59. A range of new tickets and attractions can be added to a hotel booking including The Criterion Restaurant; Greens Restaurant and Oyster Bar; Chelsea Physic Gardens; and the Sherlock Holmes Exhibition. Theatre shows will once again be a key driver for short breaks into London and the

brochure features a selection of ideas including the return of Miss Saigon for its 25th anniversary and ‘I CAN’T SING! – The X Factor Musical’, which opens at The London Palladium on March 26, 2014. For more information or to book visit www.superbreak.com/agents or call 0871-221 4444.

Pure Luxury adds diamond touch to 2014/15 brochure THE NEW Pure Luxury Worldwide Holidays 2014/15 brochure offers a ‘diamond effect’ cover to stand out when in store, plus a range of new, improved product on offer. A total of 17 new properties have been added to the portfolio across the US, Caribbean, Middle East, Indian Ocean and Far East, plus two new destinations; Naka Island in Thailand and Gaya Island in Kota Kinabulu, Malaysia. To celebrate the launch of the annual brochure, the operator has announced a new agent incentive, where nine luxury agents have the chance to win a place on a luxury fam to Abu Dhabi, with Etihad Airways. Travelling in May, agents will stay at the newly opened Ritz Carlton Abu Dhabi. For more information visit www.pureluxuryholidays.co.uk

These boots were made for walking... NOW'S THE time to bag yourself a pair of cosy boots before ON THE temperatures plummet, and the CASE Daisy boot from Pixie Designs ticks all the right boxes. Daisy offers an edgy take on the classic Pixie designs, with three angled straps and over-sized buckles. The company's signature branding, combined with its distinctive buckles, eyelets, contrast stitching and fur trim will give you something to shout about when the bitter cold sets in. All boots are made from superior quality micofibre and faux fur linings to provide extra comfort. Great for long walks on staycation holidays or one for the suitcase for a winter trip, the boots come in a variety of colours and sizes and cost £70. They are available from www.pixiefootwear.com

November 22 2013

TRAVEL ACCESSORIES YOU WON'T WANT TO LEAVE BEHIND...

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airlinebulletin Winter getaway deals from Flybe FLYBE HAS commenced its 2013/14 winter programme, which operates until March 30, 2014, offering travellers a choice of up to 2,591 flights a week on 108 routes, seven of which are new. There are six new ski routes - four from Cardiff, another from Inverness to Geneva and, for the first time, to Grenoble from Southampton; plus a four times weekly service between Birmingham and Knock. Other highlights of the winter schedule include increased flights on a number of the airline's other ski routes from Birmingham and Southampton and, in response to passenger demand, more frequency on all four of its winter sun routes from Exeter and Southampton.

GULF AIR has launched a new seasonal promotion for passengers travelling from London to popular destinations across the airline’s Middle East, Africa and Asia network. Return promotional fares in Economy start from £380 to the Middle East and £460 to Asia; while Falcon Gold Class fares are from £1,400 to the Indian Subcontinent and £1,520 to the Middle East. Destinations included in the promotion are Bahrain, Dammam, Doha, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Muscat, Kuwait, Riyadh, Addis Ababa, Khartoum, Baghdad, Najaf, Cochin, Chennai, Delhi, Mumbai, Peshawar, Lahore, Islamabad, Karachi and Bangkok. Tickets can be purchased up to December 1 at www.gulfair.com and are available for travel until June 22, 2014.

InBrief ● AIR NEW Zealand has announced Auckland-Perth will be the first

scheduled route operated by the new Boeing 787-9 when the airline takes delivery of the launch aircraft next year. The airline has confirmed an 18 lie flat seat Business Premier zone in a herringbone layout and a separate 21 seat Premium Economy cabin in a 2-3-2 configuration, each with its own dedicated bathroom facilities. The two Economy cabins will accommodate 263 passengers, including 14 Skycouch rows. All customers will benefit from larger windows, cleaner cabin air, higher humidity and lower relative cabin pressure. Agents can book clients on the service for travel from October 15 at www.airnewzealand.com and www.virginaustralia.com ● ARIK AIR has increased the size of its fleet to 23 aircraft and boosted its London to Lagos route, with the introduction of a new Airbus A330-200 twin-engine aircraft. Whilst the new A330 will serve London – Lagos, the new plane could be deployed on one of a number of potential new routes to South America and the Middle East in future. The aircraft offers a two class configuration with 30 Premier Business Class seats and 187 Economy Class seats. For details see www.arikair.com ● ETHIOPIAN AIRLINES has taken delivery of the first of its four Boeing 777-300ERs. The aircraft is the largest in the airline’s fleet with 400 passengers seating capacity. ● FROM DECEMBER 21, Estonian Air will launch a seasonal air link between Tallinn and Munich operating the route once a week on Saturdays. The route will be operated until March 29, 2014. For details see www.estonian-air.com ● BMI REGIONAL has announced the launch of a double-daily service from Newcastle to Brussels from March 3, 2014, the only direct flight to link the two cities. Operated by a 49-seater Embraer jet aircraft, the route will offer business and leisure travellers the opportunity to reach the Belgian capital in 75 minutes, with fares from £69.99 per person one-way, including taxes. For details see www.bmiregional.com

Delta Air Lines and Virgin Atlantic Airways announce new summer schedule DELTA AIR Lines and Virgin Atlantic Airways have outlined details of a new joint venture flight schedule beginning next summer, aligning their services and offering more flight choices for travellers on both sides of the Atlantic. The airlines are putting the customer at the forefront of their partnership with the new schedule that starts March 30, 2014, combining their slots at Heathrow to offer maximum customer convenience, particularly for business travellers. Beginning, April 2, 2014, Delta will move its arrival and departure terminal for several important business markets to join Virgin Atlantic in Heathrow Terminal 3. This includes its London to New York-JFK, London to Boston, and new London to Seattle services and means the two airlines will co-locate on all New York and Boston flights to Heathrow. The

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move will allow for convenient connections for customers flying with Virgin and Delta, including access to Virgin Atlantic’s Clubhouse for all Business Class passengers. Delta, in co-operation with Virgin Atlantic, will also operate a second daily service between Heathrow and Detroit Metropolitan Airport from June 2. The service will be particularly appealing to corporate customers needing an early morning arrival into London while offering more schedule choice for customers between London and the US Midwest. The additional flight will complement Delta’s previously announced new West Coast route between Seattle and Heathrow, which will launch on March 30. Virgin Atlantic is also making significant schedule changes. It is moving its VS1 Heathrow to Newark

service from a late afternoon departure to a morning departure. This flight will be particularly attractive to business travellers, allowing ‘same-day meetings’ to be held in the New Jersey area, while an earlier departure on the return flight means passengers can be in central London for the start of the working day. The service is part of nine daily flights between Heathrow and the New York area by the joint venture partners. The carrier has also retimed its Heathrow to Boston service to depart two hours later in the afternoon, offering more flexibility for the two airlines’ customers with Delta’s Heathrow to Boston service departing in the morning. Virgin Atlantic’s evening departure from Boston will also move two hours later, giving greater schedule choice to travellers.

November 22 2013

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InBrief ● &BEYOND HAS announced the addition of Benguerra Island

Lodge in Mozambique to its portfolio of luxury safari lodges and camps. The experiential travel company will be taking over the management, marketing and reservations of the lodge, which will be renamed &Beyond Benguerra Island, with immediate effect. For details email safaris@andbeyond.com ● HILLBROOKE HOTELS has launched a Room Service menu for VIPs (Very Important Pets) at four of its properties: The Pembroke Arms at Wilton; The Bull & Swan at Burghley; The William Cecil at Stamford and The Elephant Hotel at Pangbourne. With the new menu, pets can experience the same food as their owners including sirloin steak and organic chicken breasts, although the more ‘traditional’ canine customer can also enjoy a choice of branded dog food flavours. Dishes start at £4.50. ● MACDONALD MANCHESTER Hotel & Spa has introduced a new service to help guests transport their luggage from the platforms of Piccadilly Train Station to their hotel room, termed the ‘Station Concierge’. For details call 0844-879 9088 or see www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk/manchester ● REGAL HOTELS has revamped its website to offer a contemporary and innovative design, simple navigation and enhanced functionality that encourages visitors’ interaction. A 'Guest Information Section' showcases the properties, luxurious rooms, suites and facilities while the 'Corporate Information Section' focuses on providing visitors information on the company. For details see www.regalhotel.com ● GUOMAN AND Thistle Hotels, now part of the GLH Hotels brand, has launched an intelligent smartphone express check-in service across the majority of its portfolio to create a seamless check-in experience and save guests time when they arrive. For details see www.guoman.com and www.thistle.com ● LUNA HOTEL Baglioni is offering stays from £410 per room, per night based on two sharing for a minimum stay of two nights. The deal applies to stays between February 13-15, 2014 and rates exclude 10% VAT. For details see www.baglionihotels.com

A NUMBER of hotels have already faced criticism for hiking up their prices, in some cases by up to 300%, to coincide with Tour de France’s arrival in Yorkshire next year. The Holiday Inn Darlington A1 Scotch Corner hotel has bucked the trend by launching an affordable accommodation package for guests watching or taking part in the event. It includes an overnight stay with dinner and breakfast for £99 per room, per night and is available on both Friday, July 5 and Saturday, July 6, 2014, when the Tour de France hosts its opening stages in Yorkshire. For details call 01748-82541, e-mail enquiries@hidarlington.co.uk or visit www.hidarlington.co.uk

Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants announces plans for new property in Austin, Texas KIMPTON HOTELS & Restaurants has announced it will expand its footprint in Texas with the management of a new four-star boutique hotel in Austin’s historic Rainey Street District. Scheduled for an early 2015 opening, the new 16storey hotel will feature 322 guest rooms, more than 12,000sq.ft of event and meeting space, a conceptually designed chef-driven restaurant, lobby cafe and an expansive pool deck and bar. Located in the heart of the Rainey District’s thriving nightlife scene, Hotel Van Zandt will be just minutes away from the convention centre and many other popular downtown Austin attractions. For more information visit www.kimptonhotels.com

Marriott International expands in Europe with first hotel in Bosnia & Herzegovina MARRIOTT INTERNATIONAL has announced plans to open its first hotel in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The 75-suite Residence Inn Sarajevo is expected to open late next year and will operate as a Marriott franchise, owned by SEIC Hospitality and managed by Interstate Hotels & Resorts. Ideally located 20 minutes from the airport and near the old city, the property will offer convenient access to the city’s historical and cultural attractions as well as restaurants, cafes and shops. An attractive year-round destination, Sarajevo is known for its variety of summer festivals and skiing throughout the winter months. Amy McPherson, the company's Europe president and managing director, said: “We are expanding our footprint in Eastern Europe and look forward to opening our first hotel in Bosnia and Herzegovina. As an evolving business destination, Sarajevo is a perfect fit for our Residence Inn brand.” Residence Inn properties are designed as all-suite hotels that offer studios and one- and two-bedroom suites. Designed for stays of five nights or more, each suite has a fully-equipped kitchen, separate dining area and flat screen TV. Other features include a fitness room and onsite guest laundry. For more information see www.marriott.com

November 22 2013

Residence Inn, Sarajevo

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National carrier adds to winter flights choice from UK PORTUGAL'S NATIONAL carrier TAP has increased the number of flights between Gatwick and Lisbon for this winter. It now operates 11 flights a week in addition to frequent daily services from Heathrow and Manchester. The airline's winter schedule also sees a twice weekly service from Lisbon to Boa Vista in the Cape Verde Islands. The flights, on Tuesdays and Saturdays, mean that the airline now offers 15 flights a week from the UK to the islands via Lisbon. The other destinations in the islands are Sal, Santiago/Praia and Sao Vicente. Meanwhile, with the World Cup on the horizon, the airline is capitalising on the fact that it offers the most flight connections between the UK and Brazil a total of 74 each week with onward connections throughout the country with Star Alliance partner TAM.

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VILA VITA Parc, a luxury resort in the Algarve, will unveil its refurbishment developments when it relaunches in spring next year. Located 40km from Faro, the property offers a cliff top location with direct access to a secluded beach. A variety of accommodation options are available, from rooms and suites to private villas with pools. The refurbishment will see new public areas, new rooms and suites plus a new events space and reception area. Post refurbishment, the Residence room category names will change to Deluxe Rooms, while the Deluxe Room Ocean View will be slightly higher rated. For details see www.vilavitaparc.com or email reservas@vilavitaparc.com

Prestige Holidays reports strong Algarve bookings for 2013 PRESTIGE HOLIDAYS has reported strong sales to the Algarve for this year plus a 162% increase in forward bookings for 2014. The company's marketing manager, Nicky Shafe, said: "We enjoy a lot of repeat business to the Algarve. It remains a firm favourite with families during the school holidays and with couples in low season. "Most clients opt for a week long stay but we have seen a growth in short breaks too. Our newest property, the Epic Sana, is ideally suited to couples seeking a quiet hotel. Its location on the beach of Praia Da Falesia is stunning and its vast grounds and low rise buildings ensure that guests never feel crowded." The operator has a range of offers at the Epic Sana including reduced rates and a €75 resort credit per adult per stay for holidays completed by March 31, when booking by December 31. The offers are valid for deluxe pool view rooms one-bedroom apartments only and credit can used against food and drinks or spa treatments. A week's stay departing on January 8 in a deluxe pool view room costs from £675 on a bedand-breakfast basis, including flights from Gatwick, private airport transfers and resort credit, saving £89 per person. For more information or to book call 01425-480400 or see www.prestigeholidays.co.uk

Falesia Beach at Epic Sana

November 22 2013

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portugal&madeira New Walks and Wine Tasting itinerary from Explore EXPLORE IS offering a new two country 'Walks and Wine Tasting' tour that offers a journey from Madrid to Porto, through the Ribera del Duero region of Spain and the Douro wine lands of Portugal. Guests can sample regional vintages at local bodegas and take in the countryside, exploring national parks, river gorges, historic cities and villages. Departing from May to September next year (excluding August), the 12day tour costs from £1,276 per person including flights, 11 nights' breakfast accommodation, transport and the service of a tour leader and cook. The operator is also highlighting its eight-day

Levada Trails Of Madeira option which follows Madeira's characteristic 'levadas'. Guests can walk some of the best trails on the volcanic island including hiking the 'balcony walk' - a path hewn into the cliff face - to the summit of Pico Ruivo (1,862m). The tour also includes time in the capital Funchal. Departures are available throughout 2014 starting in February, and prices lead in at £758, offering a saving of £119 per person. Flights, seven nights' breakfast accommodation, transport, plus a tour leader and driver are included in the price. For further information or to book visit www.explore.co.uk or call 0844-499 0901.

ELEGANT RESORTS is offering a seven-night stay at Conrad Algarve from £1,125 per person. The price is based on two sharing a deluxe room on a bed-and-breakfast basis and includes flights from Gatwick with British Airways on April 7, 2014 and private transfers. For details call 01244-897518 or visit www.elegantresorts.co.uk

Madeira property additions from Inntravel INNTRAVEL HAS introduced stylish cottages in a tranquil hillside location in Madeira for its 2014 Rural Hideaways programme. Surrounded by vineyards in the grounds of an historic house hotel on a hillside above the small town of Calheta, the stone cottages offer the ideal base for uncovering the quieter, sunnier and more traditional western side of Madeira. Guests can take in the sea views, have access to a shared pool and enjoy freshly baked bread left at the door each morning. Activities in the area include exploring the levadas (waterways), ascending the high central Paúl de Serra plateau; or visiting the fishing village of Paúl do Mar to linger over a seafood lunch. Other highlights include whale watching, observing the famous wicker craftsmen of Camacha, experiencing one of the island’s colourful festivals or discovering the capital, Funchal. Prices for a seven-night stay start from £855 per property (£428 per person), based on two sharing, including walking notes and seven days’ car hire. Flights are excluded. For more information see www.inntravel.co.uk or call 01653-617000.

November 22 2013

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portugal&madeira THE BOUTIQUE, five-star Mercy Hotel Lisboa has just celebrated its first anniversary. The hotel has 47 rooms, including two rooftop suites, two bars and Umai, an Asianstyle restaurant. Located in the Chiado/Bairro Alto districts of the city, the hotel is situated minutes from the riverfront and the newly renovated Praco de Commercio. New general manager, Isabel Ferraz, said: “We’ve been delighted with the excellent feedback from our UK guests. We offer relaxed elegance in a premium location and a new way to experience the city, either for short breaks or as a business traveller.” For further details and to book see www.mercyhotel.com

Arblaster & Clarke highlights 'Vineyard Walk to The Douro' region ARBLASTER & Clarke's Vineyard Walk to The Douro region in Portugal leads in at £995 per person and departs from May 1217, 2014. The itinerary takes guests off the beaten track, experiencing rural Portugal’s unspoilt countryside and is based in the remotely located quality Port Estate of Quinta do Passadouro. Guests will also have the chance to visit famous estates such as Niepoort, Quinta do Noval, Quinta de Cavadinha, Quinta do Vale D.Maria and rising stars such as Quinta do

Cosmos ALGARVE Holidays for

Portal. Meanwhile, the daily vineyard walks wander through the quiet side valleys or down by the river, with time to enjoy picnic lunches accompanied by local wine from the vineyards. The price includes five nights' breakfast stay in Quinta, nine meals with wines, plus visits and tastings. Also included are mini-bus transfers for the start and end of walks and a wine walking guide. The walk is rated as moderate, with some steep sections. For more information see www.winetours.co.uk

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WINTER 2013/14 FLEXIBLE DURATIONS available from 2 nights to 200 nights plus! WIDE RANGE OF UK DEPARTURE † AIRPORTS available – Gatwick, Luton , Manchester, Birmingham, East Midlands and Leeds Bradford

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Reservations & Admin 0871 423 8518** or visit viewdata

* Price based on 6 adults sharing a 2 bedroom apartment at Mourabel Apartments in Vilamoura, 3D SC, departing ABTA No.V0531 9th Januaray 2014 from Leeds Bradford for 7 nights. Price quoted applies to new bookings and are correct at time of going to press on 19th November 2013 Cosmos holds an Air Travel † London Luton ﬂight from April 2014 onwards ** Calls cost 10p per minute plus network extras Organiser’s Licence (ATOL)

Brochure requests: www.trade-gate.co.uk

which is granted by the Civil Aviation Authority.

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portugal&madeira Collette adds new ‘Portugal and its Islands’ tour for 2014 COLLETTE WORLDWIDE Holidays has issued its 2014/15 brochure which includes a new 12-day tour to Portugal. The ‘Portugal and its Islands’ tour costs from £2,049 per person and departs between May and November 2014, and in March and April 2015. Beginning in Lisbon, the itinerary includes visits to the historic coastal

towns of Sintra, Cacais and Estoril as well as the ‘Silver Coast’ region, before flying to St Michael, the largest island in the Azores. Guests spend three nights here, with visits to pineapple and tea plantations, and the botanical garden of the Terra Nostra Park, plus join an Azorean cooking class. Other highlights include visits to Funchal and the traditional

mountain villages, before returning to Lisbon. Prices include flights, transfers and transport, breakfast and many other meals, accommodation, a tour manager and door-to-door pick up within 100 miles of the departure airport. For more information visit www.colletteworldwide.com or call 0800-804 8700.

Lisbon

Weekly flights from SATA International to commence in April SATA INTERNATIONAL is offering weekly direct flights from Gatwick to the Azores from April 5, 2014, with prices starting from £328 per person return, including taxes and charges. Flights will operate on Saturdays until October 18, with early afternoon departures from Gatwick to Ponta Delgada in Sao Miguel, the largest of the Azorean Islands. Weekday flights are also available, flying from Heathrow via Lisbon. The carrier also offers inter-island connections throughout the Azores archipelago, with prices starting from £45.80 oneway and return flights from Ponta Delgada to Terceira from £122, both including taxes and charges. For more information or to book visit www.sata.pt or call 0844-482 1678.

ANATOLIAN SKY Holidays’ latest programme to Madeira includes new twin-centre options, offering three nights in either Lisbon or Porto and four nights in a character ‘quinta’ hotel in Madeira. Prices start from £845 per person for a seven-night trip incorporating three nights' breakfast accommodation at either the Eurostars Oporto Hotel in Porto, or the Sana Rex Hotel in Lisbon, and four nights at the Quinta Bela Sao Tiago in Funchal. Flights and transfers are also included. For details visit www.anatoliansky.co.uk or call 0844-273 3585.

November 22 2013

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A Sami and his reindeer in the North Cape

cruising

Hurtigruten launches one-off ‘Heart of Norwegian Lapland’ tour HURTIGRUTEN HAS launched a new itinerary for clients looking to explore ‘The Heart of Norwegian Lapland’. The 12-day tour, from March 25-April 5, 2014, combines a voyage on MS Midnatsol along Norway’s fjord coast with a tour into the interior of Finnmark, the northernmost province of Norway and home to the Norwegian Sami. The one-off voyage will visit Bergen, Trondheim, the Lofoten archipelago, Tromsø and Alta, the largest city in Finnmark. Weather conditions allowing, the ship will travel off the normal course around the North Cape Plateau, the northernmost point in Europe. Passengers will then disembark for a two-day land tour of the region, highlights of which will include a visit to the

Alta Museum, a trip to the Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel, a reindeer stew lunch in a Sami tent, a concert by local performers and a journey to a winter camp to maximise customers’ chances of seeing the Northern Lights. The combined ship and coach itinerary includes BergenAlta-Bergen passage on full board, one-night stays in Kautokeino and Karasjok, a coach tour of Finnmark (including full board) and all scheduled excursions. Prices lead in at £1,855 per person based on two sharing. Flights are available for an additional £450 per person. For more information call 0844-448 7601 or visit www.hurtigruten.co.uk

Solo traveller offer from European Waterways

Hapag-Lloyd to sail the Amazon

EUROPEAN WATERWAYS has waived the single supplement on its four cruises through Holland on its Panache ship in April 2014. No single supplement will apply on any of the sixnight cruises on the 12-passenger ship, departing on April 6, 13, 20 and 27. Derek Banks, the line's managing director, said: “There is no reason why solo travellers should not have the opportunity to enjoy ‘the hotel barging experience’ with like-minded couples and small groups. “Holland is an ideal destination for a cruise in the spring, with the striking colours of the tulip fields displayed at their best. A visit to the famous Keukenhof Gardens, the medieval town of Gouda and the Royal Delft Pottery are highlights included in our shore excursion programme.” The fully-crewed ship has six en-suite cabins, a sun deck with spa pool and 12 bicycles for guest use. Prices lead in at £3,190 per person, offering a saving of £1,100 and include all meals, wines, an open bar, excursions and local transfers. Whole barge charters are also available. For more information call 01753-598555 or visit www.gobarging.com

HAPAG-LLOYD CRUISES’ Bremen and Hanseatic expedition cruise ships will be sailing for more than 4,000km from the mouth of the Amazon in Belem, Brazil to Iquitos, Peru next year. A total of 12 zodiacs (inflatable boats) will carry 164 guests on the Bremen, while 14 zodiacs will accompany the 184-passenger Hanseatic. The two Bremen cruises for 2014 are already fully booked, however the 2015 season will see both ships cruise the Amazon for the first time. The 16-night Expedition Amazon on Bremen from April 10-26, 2015 costs from £5,700 per person, cruise-only.

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Hanseatic

November 22 2013

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rivercruise IN RESPONSE to demand, The River Cruise Line has introduced three new Danube itineraries to its 2014 programme. Two of the trips will take place on the four-star MS Serenity, the latest addition to the fleet, which offers accommodation for up to 190 passengers. These include the ten-day ‘Cruise the Danube to Vienna & Budapest’ from £949 per person and the 17-day ‘Danube to the Black Sea’ itinerary from £1,899. A 15-day ‘The Danube from Budapest and Vienna to the Rhine Valley’ on the four-star MS Switzerland II leads in at £1,999. Prices are based on two sharing an en-suite cabin on a full-board basis and include ferry crossing from Dover to Calais, transport to join the cruise, evening entertainment, services of a cruise manager and coach transfers from a selection of regional departure points. For details call 0844-544 7580 or visit www.sellingrivercruises.com

AmaWaterways celebrates the New Year with luxury cruise from £2,429 AMAWATERWAYS IS inviting customers to celebrate New Year with its week-long luxury river cruise from Nuremberg to Budapest. Guests will be able to spend New Year’s Eve in Linz and experience New Year’s Day in the surroundings of the Baroque Melk Abbey, followed by a cruise through Austria’s Wachau Valley.

The sailing costs from £2,429 per person, saving £717 per person, and includes flights from London, ship transfers, all meals, wine and beer with lunch and dinner, complimentary daily tours and excursions, WiFi and free use of on board bicycles. For further details call 0808-223 5009 or visit www.amawaterways.co.uk

CroisiEurope launches nine-day Rhine itinerary for 2014 from £1,174

AS PART of its new programme for 2014, Regent Holidays is featuring the AmaKatarina, a 212-passenger luxury river cruising vessel that was completely rebuilt in 2010/11. Most rooms on the ship have balconies and there is a panorama lounge and a fitness room on board. A selection of 12-day itineraries are available, which take in the sights of Moscow before cruising north to the historic cities of Uglich and Yaroslavl, as well as Lake Onega and a visit to Kizhi Island, before reaching St Petersburg. Prices start from £2,978 per person including flights, transfers and transport, accommodation with all meals on board, a full sightseeing programme and onboard entertainment. For details call 020-7666 1244 or visit www.regent-holidays.co.uk

November 22 2013

CROISIEUROPE HAS launched a new Rhine itinerary for next year between Amsterdam and Basel. The nine-day itinerary cruises three countries, passing through the Black Forest wooded mountain range of southwest Germany and stopping in cities including Aachen, Dusseldorf, Cologne, Koblenz, Mainz, Strasbourg and Breisach, before finishing in Basel. The itinerary is also available in reverse. The cruise will take place on a new four-star ship which will feature 44 cabins. Operating between April and October, there will be 11 departures from Amsterdam to Basel and 12 departures from Basel to Amsterdam. Prices start from €1,393 per person (approximately £1,174 per person) including accommodation in an outside cabin, onboard meals, complimentary beer and wine at lunch and dinner as well as an open bar throughout the voyage (excluding Champagne, special wines or fine brandies), onboard entertainment and port taxes. For more information or to book call 020-8328 1281 or visit www.croisieurope.travel

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cruising Stockholm marks record cruise season for 2013 THE STOCKHOLM Cruise Network said Stockholm has finished its cruise season on a high, celebrating a record number of ships and passengers having called at its port this year. During the six-month cruise season from April 26-October 29, the company recorded 278 ships at the port, bringing 485,000 passengers to the city. This represents an increase of 4% on 2012 and the port is gaining a reputation as a turnaround port, with 47 ships embarking and disembarking in Stockholm during the season, according to the organisation. Claudia Quas, project manager of the company, said: “Cruising is hugely important to Stockholm’s economy so we

are delighted to have had such a successful year. We are very proud that our city is a big attraction to many cruisers; in fact, a recent survey showed that 97% of passengers go ashore in Stockholm and spend an average of 5.9 hours on land, compared to a European average of 87% and 4.8 hours. “The UK forms a significant part of these numbers, as it is the third largest cruise market for Stockholm, after Germany and the USA.” Ships ranging from large Royal Caribbean liners through to luxury Silversea Cruises vessels call at the centrally located harbour. For further details visit www.visitstockholm.com/cruise or see blog.traveltrade.visitstockholm.com

Fred. Olsen launches new city break cruises for 2014 FRED. OLSEN Cruise Lines has launched a selection of new European city break cruises. The new itineraries include Black Watch’s nine-night ‘Bright Lights & Overnights’ cruise, which departs from Southampton on May 8, 2014, and Braemar’s 13-night ‘Scandinavian City Explorer’ cruise, which departs from Dover on August 31. Nathan Philpot, the line's sales and marketing director, said: “Europe boasts some of the best cities in the world; places like Stockholm have become extremely popular, and with so much on offer, it’s understandable why. A thriving café and restaurant culture and impressive architecture and museums, there is so much for guests to explore.

“With our new city break cruises, guests can visit a number of these fantastic destinations, with the security of knowing that their transport, accommodation and all meals are included in the price of the cruise. Guests can also benefit from our competitive ‘pub prices’ on board, or take advantage of the cost-effective ‘all-inclusive’ drinks upgrade, from £10 per person, per night.” The ‘Bright Lights & Overnights’ cruise, which takes in the sights of Paris, Amsterdam and Hamburg, leads in at £799 per person. For more information or to book call 0800-035 5242 or visit www.fredolsencruises.com

P&O and Cunard launch new premium value fares & early saving offers P&O CRUISES and Cunard Line have launched new premium fares, which are applicable for bookings from spring 2014 and beyond. P&O’s Select Price and the Cunard Fare will be lower than the Vantage Fares which they replace and customers will be able to specify their cabin number, have priority choice of dining time and table size and cabin upgrades should they become available. The fares are also inclusive of shuttle buses (where available in ports of call) and a choice of on board credit, car parking or coach transfers to Southampton. The fares are available on all cruises at all times. Meanwhile, Early Saver fares offer customers further price reductions, limited added value and flexible booking conditions. Customers will be able to choose their grade and location of cabin, with a lower priority of dining time or table size and the fares may be offered on specific cruises and availability will vary. The current Vantage and Getaway Fare structure will continue to be available for all cruises departing up to the start of the spring 2014 programme. Meanwhile, P&O Cruises has announced three new cruises on Azura in October 2014, including a six-night trip during the half-term school holidays. All cruises depart from and return to Southampton and will be applicable for the line’s Select Price fare. As an example, a two-night short break cruise departing on October 13 costs from £199 per person. For details call 0843-373 0111 or see www.pocruises.com and www.completecruisesolution.com

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November 22 2013

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cruising Selling cruise is CLIA

by ANDY HARMER, director, CLIA UK & Ireland EW WOULD have believed even a few years ago how much the advent of the internet would completely transform the way in which customers make buying decisions and ultimately buy. All businesses over the past 20 years responded with the building of their own company website, often with the ability for customers to buy online. More recently the big transformation has been in the growth in social media. Some 200 million users chat on Twitter and a billion are active on Facebook every month; so as sellers of cruise holidays it’s just common sense to find ways to benefit from what is now accepted as a normal means of communication. A survey found that 52% of Facebook users said their travel plans were influenced by seeing friends’ pictures of trips. Of the people who had already made travel plans, only 48% stuck with their original ideas after checking out what was being said on social media channels. Social media has a BIG effect! The industry, and those associated with marketing have been telling us for years to get involved and to use social networks where possible. So what can you do? And more importantly, why do it? Social media is a great opportunity for the cruise industry. Cruise ships (ocean and river) visit some of the world’s most incredible places, and cruise excursions often allow customers to do things that they would not normally be able to do on other holiday types. As a result the amount of great video, photo and blogging content that can be used to tell the “cruise story” is bewildering. And the telling of that ‘cruise story’ is so important for our industry because we remain a holiday choice that the majority of holidaymakers have still yet to try (although our rapid growth over the past 20 years is starting to change that). So what can be done? When you consider the current usage habit of these networks, the most notable opportunity is to engage in real-time interaction between you and your clients during their holiday. Focus on offering information based on their current situation. For example, if someone is tweeting about cruising into the port of Barcelona tomorrow, offer them information on the hop on-off bus fares and schedule, port maps or weather conditions. This forms a great bond between you and your client and your service will spread quickly to their friends.

November 22 2013

Imagine Cruising opens bookings for 2015 Southern African adventure IMAGINE CRUISING has announced that its 22-night Johannesburg to Southampton and Zambezi 2014 cruise and stay holiday has sold out and it is now taking bookings for its April 2015 itinerary. Customers booking the Zambezi 1 cruise now for 2015 will also receive the 2013 price, starting from £3,799 per person, which is based on two people sharing an inside cabin. Departing on April 11, 2015, the cruise takes in the best of Southern Africa, including Victoria Falls and Cape Town’s Table Mountain. The price includes an outbound flight to Johannesburg, a five-star overnight stay in the city, three nights at the Royal Livingstone Hotel in Zambia, a Zambezi Queen river safari, one night’s stay at the Table Bay Hotel in Cape Town, transfers and a 15-night Cunard cruise on Queen Mary 2 to Southampton. The ship will call at Walvis Bay, Gran Canaria and Madeira before arriving in Southampton on May 3. For more information or to book call 0800-840 5809 or visit www.imaginecruising.co.uk

Shearings expands 2014 programme with escorted cruises section A ‘CRUISES escorted by Shearings’ section has been added to Shearings' 2014 programme. Patricia Birmingham, the operator's Europe and worldwide holidays manager, said: “The river cruises provide our escorted tour experience and include transfers on luxury coaches, a dedicated tour manager and a specially-planned optional excursion package. “Agents can target customers who are new to cruise with the packages, which are designed to offer a stress free way of exploring several destinations in one trip.” As an example of prices, an eight-day Venice, the Lagoon and the Po Delta itinerary costs from £919 per person including five nights’ full-board cruise, two nights’ accommodation en/post route and coach travel. Departures are available in July and August. For more information call 0844-824 6359 or visit www.shearings.com

Crystal expands voluntourism opportunities on 2014 world cruise CRYSTAL CRUISES’ guests and crew will have twice as many opportunities to give back locally during its 2014 World Cruise. With an expanded You Care, We Care programme during Serenity’s 89-night LA-Southampton global journey (departing January 18), volunteers can help underprivileged children, the eco-system or a local memorial in Hawaii, Asia and/or Africa, with the cruise line handling all costs and logistics. Philip Ordever, vice president of international sales and marketing at the cruise line, said: “Our You Care, We Care participants have enjoyed experiencing these destinations in such an intimate, interactive and compassionate way. They love seeing facets of a culture not usually visited on a luxury holiday, and return to the ship feeling like they may have made a difference, however small or large.” For more information or to book call 020-7399 7601 or visit www.crystalcruises.co.uk

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MGTO highlights new walking tours THE MACAU Government Tourist Office (MGTO) has unveiled four new walking tours. They include ‘A Tour of Historical Trails’, covering the ‘San Ma Lou’ area, with sites including the UNESCO site of the Holy House of Mercy, St. Dominic’s Church and Sam Kai Vui Kun, once a former meeting place for local Chinese merchants and a former opium house; ‘A Tour of Nature and Creativity’, taking in the Pou Chai Sim Iun (Kun Iam Tong) temple, the Guia Lighthouse, the Macau Tea Culture House, the Lou Lim Ieoc Garden and the St Lazarus district; ‘A Tour of East Meets West’, taking in Senado Square, St. Lawrence’s Church and the Mandarin’s House; and ‘A Tour of Arts and Culture’, starting at the Macau Fisherman’s Wharf dining, shopping and entertainment complex and continuing to the Macau Cultural Centre, Macau Museum of Art and the Macau Science Center as well as the Macau Tower. The shortest of the four walks takes approximately 90 minutes to complete while the longest takes around 130 minutes. Illustrated on specially created maps, the tours are available for free at Macau’s tourist information centres as well as available for download at www.macautourism.gov.mo The website also features videos of the four routes to allow visitors to virtually experience the walking tours prior to setting off. The tourist office is currently designing further walking tours, including an island tour, to be launched next year. Smartphone apps for each walking route will also be available soon.

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AS PART of its 2014 programme, Regent Holidays is featuring new tours in the Far East including a 13-day ‘Classic China’ small group tour. Departing on June 1, prices lead in at £2,295. Highlights include visits to Beijing, taking in Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, the Great Wall and the Temple of Heaven; Xian, with the Terracotta Warriors and a tea ceremony; Guilin and a cruise down the Li River; plus a trip to the rice terraces at Longji. The tour ends with three nights in Shanghai. Prices are based on two sharing and include flights with BA, transfers and transport, breakfast accommodation, most meals and sightseeing. For details call 020-7666 1244 or visit www.regent-holidays.co.uk

Travel Indochina launches Asia escorted groups brochure TRAVEL INDOCHINA has introduced its new Asia Escorted Small Group Journeys brochure for 2014/15, with every tour guaranteed to operate. It covers 11 countries, including cross border options and 70 itineraries. The operator has introduced new ‘Insider Experiences’, including a day trip by speedboat departing from Saigon and travelling by river to the Mekong Delta, visiting a local village and riverside market on the 11-day ‘Vietnam Insight’ journey. A selection of the tour dates also coincide with some of the biggest festivals in Mongolia, Bhutan, India and Japan, including the 16-day ‘Trans Mongolian Adventure with Naadam Festival’, the 15-day ‘Secrets of Japan with Kyoto Gion Festival’ in July, the 13-day ‘Highlights of Bhutan with Jambay Lakhang Festival’ and the 14-day ‘Highlights of Rajasthan with Pushkar Festival’ in November. All 2014 journeys will operate with a maximum group size of 16, with a tour leader and English-speaking guides. Paul Hole, managing director and co-founder of the operator, said: “Our guarantee of a maximum of just 16 travellers, plus our unique combination of both Western tour leaders and local guides, really allows us to stand apart from other options. This part of the world is all we do, and we have 20 years’ experience in bringing unique travel experiences to our travellers.” With the recent opening of two new offices in Laos and the expansion of its operations in Vietnam, the operator now has seven offices in Asia and the company’s new small group journeys are available exclusively through its UK office in Oxford.

November 22 2013

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fareast Savings of up to £220 on 21-day Bhutan land-only tour from Dragoman DRAGOMAN HAS added Bhutan to its portfolio of destinations for next year. The first 21-day trip, which takes place in India, Nepal and Bhutan, departs on August 25, 2014. Highlights of the Bhutanese section of the tour include a day trip

to the ‘Tiger’s Nest’ monastery; a visit to the Paro Rinpung Dzong and the outdoor market in Thimphu; a guided tour of the Punakha Dzong; a visit to Bumthang, the ancestral home of Bhutan’s royal family; and a one-day trek following the Shasila trail.

Centara rebrands Khao Lak Resort following extensive renovations CENTARA HOTELS & Resorts has rebranded its Khao Lak Seaview Resort & Spa to Centara Seaview Resort Khao Lak following a renovation and upgrading programme. The company, which signed a management contract for the resort in March, has invested 70m baht to ensure the property is in full compliance with its four-star core brand. Thirayuth Chirathivat, the hotel group's CEO, said: “Khao Lak is an exciting tourism destination and we are delighted to have this beautiful resort, located in a prime beachfront location, in our portfolio. Centara Seaview Resort Khao Lak has a great future as one of Khao Lak’s premier resorts.” The resort, which is less than an hour’s drive from Phuket Airport, has 230 rooms, including deluxe, pool villas, beach villas, family suites and family residences. Deluxe category rooms have the option of one king-size bed, or two queen-size beds for families wishing to stay in one room. Connecting rooms are also available. Dining facilities include the Orchid Restaurant, serving Western and Continental breakfast, while Talay Tong, set on the beach, serves drinks, lunch and dinner with a Thai and international flavour. Rim Nam, the pool restaurant, is open for lunch, offering light refreshments and snacks while the Beer Garden, located in the Plaza, offers evening drinks with a selection of local and imported beers and live entertainment. The newest addition is the Time Out sports bar. Spa Cenvaree meanwhile has seven treatment rooms plus a sauna and steam room, and there is also a fitness centre. Leisure attractions include swimming pools, tennis courts, a squash court, new watersports facilities, snooker and pool, table tennis and a kids’ club. The resort is also designed for meetings and events, with the largest function room able to hold 400 guests for cocktails or theatre style. For more information or to book email csk@chr.co.th

To mark the inaugural tour, the company is offering a £220 saving off the normal £2,220 per person price (land-only). A kitty of US$250 per trip is also included. For further details or to book call 01728-861133 or visit www.dragoman.com

Anantara set to open new Phuket Layan Resort & Spa in January ANANTARA WILL open the Phuket Layan Resort & Spa, Thailand in January next year. The resort, which is the operator’s second opening in Phuket, offers 77 rooms and is set in a bay located away from the developing beaches of the island. There are also 47 private pool villas with 30 Jacuzzi terrace suites set on a small hill, offering panoramic views of the Andaman Sea. Meanwhile, June this year saw the opening of the operator’s Hoi An Resort, which is located in the port town and UNESCO site of Hoi An on Vietnam’s central coast. With several beaches located nearby, the resort offers French, Dutch, Chinese and Japanese influences and 93 split level rooms and suites which open onto porches with daybeds, overlooking the river or garden courtyard. For more information visit www.anantara.com

Sundowners Overland marks anniversary brochure with a new overland journey SUNDOWNERS OVERLAND has announced the launch of its 50th anniversary brochure, the Complete Guide to the Trans Siberian Railway, Mongolia, India and the Silk Road. To mark the launch, the company has designed a special departure which departs from Singapore and travels over 55 days before concluding in London. Destinations visited include Malaysia, Thailand, Myanmar, China, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Iran, Turkey, Bulgaria, Romania, Hungary, Austria, Germany, Belgium and France. For more information email brochures@sundownersoverland.com

Hong Kong Tourism Board launches new look trade portal HONG KONG Tourism Board (HKTB) has relaunched its trade information portal, Partnernet, with a new design and additional features. The site is divided into eight sections for easy navigation, covering industry news, new developments in the tourism sector, information on cruises and details of meetings and exhibitions in Hong Kong. Through the portal, users can access a photo library and tour products, a services database and details of the latest trade events to allow partners to broaden their network and strengthen their skills. The e-marketplace feature allows users to search for

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potential business partners, as well as create their own profile to display their business opportunities. Dawn Page, director – UK and Northern Europe of the tourism board, said: “We are committed to providing travel agents and tour operators with the latest information and developments from Hong Kong. “We believe the new features on Partnernet will enable the travel trade to effectively sell the destination and showcase the best of Hong Kong.” For more information email laoise.collins@hktb.com or see http://partnernet.hktb.com and www.discoverhongkong.com/uk

November 22 2013

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fareast 13-day 'Beauty of Japan' option from £4,599 with Collette Worldwide Holidays COLLETTE WORLDWIDE’S recently launched 2014/15 brochure includes the full programme of RHS Garden Holidays, operated in conjunction with the Royal Horticultural Society. As examples, a 13-day ‘Beauty of Japan’ tour costs from £4,599 per person and includes three nights in Tokyo, visits to Sankei-en, a traditional garden in Yokohama, and

Hakone, part of a National Park, with a cruise along Lake Ashi and views of Mount Fuji; visits to a Wasabi Farm near Nagano, Jigokudani Yaen Koen, Joshinetsu Kogen National Park, Kanazawa Castle and Osaka. Six departures are available next year, with the October 12 departure being accompanied by Jon Webster,

curator of the RHS Garden Rosemoor, as a specialist host. Included in the price are flights from Gatwick, most meals, excursions and door-to-door transfers within 100-miles of the departure airport. For more information call 0800-804 8710 or visit www.rhsgardenholidays.com

Kinkakuji Temple, Japan

Air China re-introduces Gatwick-Beijing summer services GATWICK HAS announced that Air China will continue operating direct services between Gatwick and Beijing into summer next year. The airline began operating the four times weekly service on an Airbus A330-200 in May last year. Wang Mingyuan, senior vice president and chairman of the airline’s commercial committee, said: “Air China regards London as an important global market, and the economic and tourism prospects for China and the UK are positive. We are therefore pleased to reintroduce services to Gatwick with whom we are developing a good strategic partnership.” Stewart Wingate, Gatwick's CEO, said: “Demand between China and the UK is increasing and Gatwick has a very clear role to play in helping the UK remain one of the best connected cities anywhere in the world. "The Gatwick-Beijing route has proved popular since its inception in May last year and so I am very pleased that Air China has decided to continue operating this service into next summer.” Summer flights will start on March 30 and tickets are now on sale.

November 22 2013

New Wendy Wu foodie tours in Hong Kong WENDY WU Tours has announced a partnership with the Hong Kong Tourism Board to launch a new foodie tour. The three-night tour in Hong Kong can be bought as a standalone package or added to any longer China trip and will explore Sham Shui Po, known as one of the best foodie enclaves in Hong Kong. The tour also includes a number of tastings at key local eateries, while guests can learn about the history and culture of the district. The operator's managing director, Laurence Hicks, said: “China boasts world class cuisine and food is always an incredible highlight to any trip to China, so we are delighted to offer the inside track to food in Hong Kong - the world capital of Cantonese cuisine – and China. "Our partnership with the Hong Kong Tourism Board and experts including TV’s celebrity chef Ching He Huang, means we can guide you to the best, while finding out fascinating facts about culture and history.” The three-night tour, which stays at the Harbour Plaza North Point, costs from £449 per person, excluding flights. For further information see www.wendywutours.co.uk or call 0844-499 3899.

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Elephant Hills, Rainforest Camp, Thailand

Western & Oriental offers up to £415 savings in 2014 Far East programme WESTERN & Oriental has launched its new Far East programme for next year. Savings of up to £415 are available on bookings for the Aava Resort & Spa, Thailand, with offers including stay seven nights, pay for four; stay ten nights in a Poolside Villa, pay for six; and complimentary transfers from Surat Thani Airport. The offers are valid on bookings made by January 31, 2014, for travel up to October 31. Prices start from £1,149 per person for seven nights’ breakfast accommodation including flights and transfers. Alternatively, those staying at The Amali in Bali can save up to £320 per couple on a seven-night holiday, with offers including stay three nights, pay for two or stay six nights and pay for four. Offers are valid for travel between now and December 20 and January 10 and April 30, 2014.

Gemma Wilson, the operator's Far East product manager, said: “We expect Bali’s popularity to continue in 2014. With an upgraded fleet and a new direct flight to Jakarta from Gatwick commencing in spring next year, Garuda will be offering the quickest route to Indonesia and Bali from the UK. “Over the last year we have experienced an increase in multi-centre and experiential holidays in the Far East, with a focus on destinations such as Borneo and Vietnam. We are expecting this trend to continue into 2014, with unique experiences particularly popular, such as the new Elephant Hills five-day Overland Truck Safari, which combines a bush camp stay with the existing luxury tented camp.” For more information call 020-7666 1234 or visit www.westernoriental.com

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InBrief We asked our staff the following question this week:

● HYATT WILL open its fourth branded hotel in Tokyo and its ninth in Japan, the

What is your guilty pleasure?

● Inside Japan Tours is offering 11 nights in Kyoto and Tokyo for a special 'Kyoto

Publisher: Jeanette Ratcliffe jeanette.ratcliffe@travelbulletin.co.uk Occasionally watching 'Man Versus Food'

Editor: Lauretta Wright lauretta.wright@travelbulletin.co.uk Yeo Valley strawberry frozen yoghurt

Assistant Editor: Jill Sayles jill.sayles@travelbulletin.co.uk Architecture/property TV programmes - Grand Designs, The Restoration Man, Building the Dream etc...

Contributing Editor: Paul Scudamore post@travelbulletin.co.uk Angry Birds

Sales Director: Simon Eddolls simon.eddolls@travelbulletin.co.uk Cheese

Andaz Tokyo, in spring next year. For details see www.andaz.com

Autumn Leaves and Culture' trip from £2,395 per person this month and next. It includes flights, meet and greet transfers, transport, three nights’ accommodation in Tokyo, one night in Mt Koya, two nights in Hakone and three nights’ in Kyoto with breakfast, plus four evening meals. Seven rail passes, Koya transport passes, Hakone transport passes and tickets for Geisha dances in Kyoto, plus private afternoon tea with Zen Meditation at Kodaiji in Kyoto are also included. See www.insidejapantours.com, call 0117-370 9751 or email info@insidejapantours.com ● TWO HERITAGE tour packages in Vietnam have been created by Sandy Beach Non

Nuoc Resort, managed by Centara, both offering two nights’ accommodation combined with visits to heritage sites located near to the beachside Da Nang Resort. The packages are available from now until May 31, 2014 and cost approximately £194 for The Hue Imperial City package and £175 for the My Son Holy Land and Hoi An Ancient Town package. Both include two nights' breakfast accommodation, transfers, a 50% discount on spa treatments, late check-out and a day tour including car transport and entrance fees. ● EVA AIR and the Shanghai Municipal Tourism Administration (SMTA) are teaming

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up to promote travel to Taiwan and mainland China’s Yangtze River Delta Region. Under the concept ‘One Trip Taiwan & Shanghai’, travellers flying with EVA Air are being encouraged to visit the oriental beauty of two Asia cities in one twincentre trip. The airline flies daily from Heathrow to its international hub at Taipei, operating via Bangkok. From Taipei, the carrier offers onward connections to 29 gateways in mainland China, including Shanghai.

Account Manager: Bill Coad bill.coad@travelbulletin.co.uk Walkers Cheese & Onion crisps

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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

November 22 2013

Travelport announces new agreement with Hong Kong Airlines & Hong Kong Express Airways TRAVELPORT HAS announced a new multi-year content agreement with Hong Kong Airlines (HX) and its low-cost, sister airline – Hong Kong Express Airways (UO). Effective immediately, the agreement provides Travelport-connected agents worldwide with access to up-to-date route information and fares from both the airlines. Damian Hickey, the company's vice president of global distribution sales and services, Asia-Pacific, said: “We are extremely pleased to welcome both Hong Kong Airlines and Hong Kong Express Airways as our newest airline partners. These agreements are testament to our commitment to delivering unrivalled travel content to our global travel agency customers, whilst helping to grow bookings on both airlines via our GDS platforms.” Hong Kong Airlines operates scheduled regional passenger and cargo services to ten destinations within the People’s Republic of China and Vietnam, including codeshares with Hong Kong Express Airways, which provides service to nine destinations in Asia, including China, Japan, Malaysia, Taiwan and Thailand.

puzzlesolutions Crossword: Across: 1. JAMAICA, 6. ARMSTRONG, 8. OLYMPIC, 11. ANTIGUA, 13. ANNAPOLIS, 15. NATALIE. Down: 1. JOHN O'GROATS, 2. MEA, 3. AZTEC, 4. WYOMING, 5. DOGE 'S PALACE, 7. MAP, 9. YAOUNDE, 10. INN, 11. ASPEN, 12. TLL, 14. SOL.

Highlighted Word: JAPAN Travagrams: (top) Discover Egypt

(bottom) Hilton

Where Am I?: Flanders

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