Travel Bulletin 23rd May 2014

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May 23 2014 | ISSUE NO 1,873 | www.travelbulletin.co.uk

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4* Marina Byblos Hotel, Dubai

4* JA Ocean View Hotel, Dubai

INCLUDES:

INCLUDES:

• Return ights • 5 nights at 4* Marina Byblos Hotel, B&B • Return transfers

• Return ights • 5 nights at 4* JA Ocean View Hotel, B&B • Return transfers

FROM

ÂŁ489

PP*

Valid from: 01 - 26 Jul 14

FROM

ÂŁ499

PP*

Valid from: 01 Jul - 31 Aug 14

5* Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, Dubai

5* Atlantis The Palm, Dubai

INCLUDES:

INCLUDES:

• Return ights • 5 nights at 5* Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, half board • Return transfers

• Return ights

FREE UPGRADE TO HALF BOARD + FREE ACCESS TO WILD WADI WATERPARK

FROM

ÂŁ599

PP*

Valid from: 01 Jul - 31 Aug 14

• 5 nights at 5* Atlantis The Palm, half board • Return transfers FREE UPGRADE TO HALF BOARD + FREE ACCESS TO AQUAVENTURE WATERPARK & THE LOST CHAMBERS AQUARIUM

FROM

ÂŁ669

PP*

Valid from: 01 Jul - 31 Aug 14

Book online 24/7 at www.travel2.com or call Reservations FREE on 0800 0224 182 Incentive Terms & Conditions: http://www.travel2.com/sitecontent/terms/summerisdubai.html

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We are offering agents to the chance to win 1 of 20, ÂŁ100 shopping vouchers! With fantastic offers and Dubai activities to enjoy throughout the summer, selling this 'OKTCVG UVCVG JCU PGXGT DGGP GCUKGT 6Q Ć‚PF QWV JQY [QW EQWNF YKP XKUKV VTCXGN EQO

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May 23 2014 | ISSUE NO 1,873 | www.travelbulletin.co.uk

Far East

Improved air connections offer Birmingham passengers greater choice

this week agent bulletin 9 new booking incentives plus find out what's in store for Gemini

star awards focus this week we take a closer look at Sea Captains

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caribbean Tobago welcomes additional airlift for winter season

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uk & ireland hoteliers & operators unveil their latest summer break offers

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THE TRAIN

EUROPEAN RAIL M

ADE EASY!

Website: WWW.VOYAGES-SNCF. E

Call: 0844 848 4066

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newsbulletin

TEAM TUNISIA...Just Sunshine recently hosted a fam trip to Tunisia for a group of agents. Highlights included visits to Gammarth, Hammamet, Skanes, Port El Kantaoui and Sousse. Pictured taking in the sights at Carthage are, from the left: Gemma Cahill, Regal Travel, Maesteg; Lisa Dowson, Hays Travel, Bishop Auckland; Tanya Mckenzie Wright, Not Just Travel; Can Deniz, Just Sunshine; Stacey Hammond, Beccles Travel, Beccles; and Rosie Thornton, Just Sunshine. The operator features a choice of hotels in all the major Tunisia coastal resorts and offers 15% commission to agents.

For details call 0844-756 0056 or see www.justsunshine.com

Cover Pictures: Main - CNTO

Inset - Visit Tobago

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star awards focus

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catch up on the industry’s latest reports & announcements the latest news & views from columnist Sandy Murray new booking incentives plus find out what's in store for Gemini play Su Doku for a chance to win a £50 Love2Shop voucher from Voyages-sncf a round-up of new fares, programmes & itineraries this week we take a closer look at Sea Captains Tobago welcomes additional airlift for winter season

hoteliers & operators unveil their latest summer break offers improved connections & new facilities offer Birmingham passengers greater choice

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Research unveils factors contributing to holiday spending NEW RESEARCH published by the Travel Foundation shows that board basis is just one of several factors that can influence how much holidaymakers spend in resort. The findings revealed that while board basis is an important factor affecting spend on food and drink, it is much less important when looking at other types of spend, such as souvenir shopping and excursions. Other variables must also be considered, such as the quality of what's on offer outside the hotel, to fully understand differences in discretionary spend between resorts, and to take action to optimise tourist spend.

Among the findings from the research (based on more than 700 interviews with tourists in 63 hotels across five resorts in Cyprus and Tenerife) the average tourist spent £23.07 per day, of which £20.82 was outside the hotel. Only 2% of the sample spent no money outside their hotel.

Predictably, when compared to other board bases, all-inclusive customers spent significantly less on meals out and drinks, which meant they spent the least overall.

However, they were not the lowest spenders when it came to other activities such as shopping (e.g. for souvenirs) and excursions.

The research also found that one in seven (14%) all-inclusive customers spent more than the sample average, and nearly half (48%) went out for at least one meal.

However, variations in daily spend between resorts were considerable. For instance within Cyprus, tourists staying in Paphos spent

almost a third less per day than those in Protaras, suggesting that other important influencers on spending are the cost of the holiday, hotel location and star-rating, plus corresponding customer demographics.

The research also indicates that customer expectations and perceptions about what is on offer outside the hotel is a very influential factor, either encouraging or dissuading holidaymakers to explore their resort. For some, the low quality of the ‘offer’ from tourism businesses outside the hotel was a disincentive while, for others, the hotel was simply ‘too good to leave’. One fifth (21%) of tourists (26% of all-inclusive customers) spent less than they expected, suggesting significant potential for tourists to spend more in resort if there is enough of an incentive to do so.

Salli Felton, acting chief executive of the Travel Foundation, said: "Hotels can benefit the local economy by doing things like sourcing local produce and providing local employment. However, customer spend outside of the hotel is important as it can help a diverse range of local tourism businesses to thrive, and therefore enhance the destination offer and the overall holiday experience. With demand for all-inclusive holidays set to continue, tour operators, hoteliers, tourist boards and others must look beyond board basis and consider the full range of options available to encourage customer spend outside the hotel. Customer satisfaction is only likely to increase as a result."

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newsbulletin Jetset announced as sponsors of Travel Bulletin’s Star Awards JETSET ARE once again delighted to be the voting form prize sponsor.

The company’s sales director, Adrian Smyth, said: “As a trade only supplier Jetset are always keen for agents to make their voices heard loud and clear, and The Travel Bulletin Star Awards are the perfect opportunity for an agent to do just that.

“We have been involved in the Star Awards for a significant number of years and have watched the event grow in size and stature. It is now rightly seen as one of the top industry nights in the calendar. Held at the Adrian Smyth

beautiful Landmark Hotel, the Star Awards are a great event - and when you throw in the entertainment that the event is now famous for, you are guaranteed a brilliant night out with industry colleagues and clients.

“Jetset has been fortunate to be shortlisted in a number of categories for the last five years. An even better tribute to the team at Jetset is how in the last four years we have been awarded Star Scheduled Seat Only Operator on three separate occasions. This naturally fills Jetset with pride and satisfaction but also real motivation to carry on being the leaders in providing the service and systems that truly help the trade succeed. Thanks for taking the time to vote!”

Manchester conference for Travel Counsellors

Get the reach with LifeHub...

TRAVEL COUNSELLORS will celebrate its 20th anniversary with its biggest conference to date. The event, which is being held in Manchester at the city’s ‘Manchester Central’ convention centre from November 14-16, will include a themed Friday night welcome bash, an annual awards ceremony and gala dinner, conference sessions and a supplier Pow Wow session, where agents can meet directly with representatives from a host of tourist boards, hotels and airlines to learn more about their products and destinations.

THERE'S NO more sitting cramped and uncomfortable next to a power socket when your device is low on power; Innergie has launched LifeHub, a unique and versatile mobile USB power hub that allows the freedom to be powered anytime and anywhere - at home and abroad. The device features three high power 2.1 Amp ultra-fast charging USB ports and a 9.8ft extended reach, giving users the ability to charge any combination of tablets, smartphones or mobile devices at the same time. LifeHub is available from selected retailers from around £54.99.

For more information visit www.myinnergie.com

ON THE C ASE

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

SOUTHAMPTON SENSATION...Following the launch of 'Sandals on Tour', agents took part in a quiz night in Southampton recently.

Pictured are the winning team - Co-operative Travel PTAs, who won five nights at Sandals LaSource Grenada, Beringer wine, branded suitcases and chocolates. Celebrating their win with the operator's Faye Shepherd (below) are, from the left: Michelle Lawson, Kathryn Lord-Ralph and Katherine Watson. The tour concludes in Crawley on June 12. Agents interested in attending should complete Sandals and Beaches' online training (www.sellingsandals.co.uk) or email agencysales@sandals.co.uk

Kids stay free offer in Kenya’s Maasai Mara & Tsavo West with Serena Hotels SERENA HOTELS & Lodges is inviting children to stay for free on holidays to the Maasai Mara or Tsavo West national parks in Kenya during this year’s school holidays.

The offer, which applies to the “Bush and Beach” package enables two children under the age of 12 to

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stay for free when sharing with their parents during the half-term holidays in May and October and the summer holidays in July and August.

The one-week package twins either the recently refurbished Mara Serena Safari Lodge or the classic Kilaguni Serena Safari Lodge,

located in the lee of Mount Kilamanjaro, with Serena’s Beach Resort and Spa, located on Shanzu beach on Kenya’s Swahili coast. For a family of four a saving of more than £1,340 per family is offered.

For more information visit www.serenahotels.com

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newsbulletin CityJet launches Amsterdam & Dublin routes from Cambridge Airport CAMBRIDGE AIRPORT has welcomed the launch of two new routes with CityJet, which now connects Cambridge and East England with Dublin with a core twice-daily timetable and with equal frequency to Amsterdam in the Netherlands.

Both routes offer a double-daily service Monday-Friday and daily at weekends, operated by a Fokker 50 aircraft, and have been specially configured to offer onward connectivity to worldwide destinations. Through the carrier's partnership with KLM, Air France, Delta and other partners, Cambridge passengers now have regular, welltimed flights to Ireland and Holland, as well as fast and frequent connecting services to cities including New York, Boston, Toronto, Washington DC, Chicago, Seattle, Shanghai, Beijing and Tokyo. Passengers connecting through Dublin Airport are now able to take advantage of the Irish airport’s US border clearance facility and proceed swiftly through US immigration en-route to the US. Direct flights can be booked online at www.cityjet.com.

For more information visit www.cambridgeairport.com

CityJet marks launch of new routes

New ships on Portugal's Douro from Viking River Cruises

Rocky Mountaineer marks start of summer with free hotel offer

VIKING RIVER Cruises is offering journeys along Portugal's Douro River on its two new bespoke Longships; the Viking Hemming and Viking Torgil.

The ten-day sailings give guests the opportunity to explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites, discover medieval cities and towns, indulge in the Portuguese wines at Quinta do Seixo, take part in cooking classes and learn to make bread with a Contessa, before arriving and taking in the sights and architecture of Lisbon.

Prices start from £2,495 for ten days, including flights, eight guided tours and meals.

For details call 020-8780 7995 or visit www.vikingcruises.co.uk

ROCKY MOUNTAINEER is celebrating the start of summer with the introduction of its new ‘Free Hotel Offer’ which runs from now until June 27.

Clients booking a qualifying holiday package of six or more nights receive an additional hotel night in Vancouver, BC, while new qualifying Coastal Passage bookings receive an added value of up to $750 per couple, which includes an extra hotel night in Seattle, WA and complimentary dinner and breakfast at the hotel.

One of the eligible holidays is a Canadian Rockies Highlights & Coastal Passage trip. The eight-day journey connects Seattle to the Canadian Rockies with a stopover in Vancouver, and offers activities in each destination to appeal to all guests.

The hotel offer is exclusively applicable to bookings of six or more nights in GoldLeaf Deluxe, GoldLeaf or SilverLeaf Service.

For details visit www.rockymountaineer.com

Research shows package travellers book further in advance UK hotels are benefiting from a marked increase in demand for holiday packages according to the latest research from the Expedia group. The group's data from the first quarter of this year showed that guests booking a package (flight or car, plus hotel) stayed a day and a half longer on average and booked more than three weeks

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further in advance than guests booking standalone (room-only) hotel rooms.

The research also found that package guests to the UK stayed more than three nights on average, whereas travellers booking standalone room nights stayed just over one and a half. Package guests also booked nearly a month and a half in advance,

whereas guests booking a standalone room night waited almost a month later to book.

The UK destinations that ranked top for package stays in the UK were London, Edinburgh and the Channel Islands. Manchester was the fastest growing holiday package destination, experiencing an increase in demand of almost 30%.

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newsbulletin 2015 preview brochure from Cosmos Tours & Cruises COSMOS TOURS & Cruises has launched its 2015 preview range of North America, Europe and worldwide holidays with a private home pick-up service included on selected holidays.

The company's head of product, Amy Shine, said: “We have launched our 2015 programme earlier than usual to meet demand from people wanting to book their holiday months in advance to secure a specific departure date or holiday, particularly for our small group tours and those which coincide with special events.”

A ‘Start in Style’ private door-to-door home pick up service is included on all North America or worldwide holidays, where customers will be picked up from home in a private chauffeur-driven car and given assistance with luggage on arrival into the terminal building with the same service offered on the return journey. The service is available for all those living within a 50-mile radius of the airport.

To meet demand for small group touring in worldwide destinations, the range includes Japan, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, South Africa and further afield to Australia. The choice of tours in the US and Canada showcases the iconic sights and sounds including the vibrant cities, national parks and natural wonders.

As examples of prices, a 20-day ‘Vietnam & Cambodia’ Discovery tour offers an insight into the culture history

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and iconic sights of the two countries, with highlights including sightseeing in the cities of Hanoi, Saigon, Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, plus an overnight cruise around Halong Bay. Prices lead in at £2,545 per person including flights, 17 nights' half-board accommodation, all travel on tour as well as airport transfers. An extension to the tour includes Koh Samui from £75 per person, per night.

Alternatively, a nine-day ‘Elvis & the Southern Sounds’ twincentre holiday costs from £1,525 per person to experience the heritage of American music, with visits to the Stax Museum of American Soul Music, the Sun Studio where Elvis recorded his first record and a guided tour of his home ‘Graceland’, before heading to the music city ‘Nashville’.

European holidays on sale early include a selection in Spain, Portugal, Greece, Germany, Croatia, Italy and France. A new six-day tour in the south of France includes the famous Nice Carnival and the Lemon Menton Festival with a visit to St Paul de Vence, and costs from £856.

Direct flights are available to North America and many long-haul destinations from Heathrow, Gatwick, Birmingham, Manchester, Edinburgh and Glasgow.

For more information see www.cosmostoursandcruises.co.uk

THE RECEN TLY app has been launched Coponis designed to revolutionise the tradition al 'Welcome In form provided at se ation Pack' lf-catering accommodat ion by utilisin g smartphone technology.

As well as property info offers local in rmation, the app formation in cluding map/direction s, drink, visit, sh where to eat, op, watch a film and more. Settin g up a proper ty on Coponis is sm ooth and straightforw ard for the pr operty owner/manag er, with step -bystep instruct ions. The ap p is available for both Android and IOS smartphones .

Details at ww w.coponis.com

Ferrari Land to open in Spain PORTAVENTURA ENTERTAINMENT S.A.U. has reached a licensing agreement with Ferrari S.p.A. to establish Ferrari Land, a new theme park dedicated to the global brand within the PortAventura resort near Barcelona, Spain.

The new site (expected to open in 2016) will be the only one of its kind in Europe and will receive a total investment of more than €100million.

The park will feature several rides, including the highest and fastest vertical accelerator in Europe. It will also offer a hotel featuring 250 guestrooms, as well as restaurants, shops and large simulation areas for car racing.

The park also launched its Angkor ride this year, which takes visitors on a boat trip through a jungle to face a number of challenges.

For more information visit www.portaventura.com

ed to that is design A NEW app in ed st ose intere appeal to th ched. n u la en has be offers North Korea p orea Travel ap e The North K th to sive guide a comprehen a unique tour ith w n destinatio fers ion. It also of ct n fu building is h tory, the nation’s sections on us the pl language, culture and th Korea. or N to elling ethics of trav e For details se atravel.com/ re ko th or .n www guideapp

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newsbulletin TRAVEL AGENT

Newsbites ●

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A CRUISE ferry service has been launched to reconnect Portland, Maine and Yarmouth in Canada's Nova Scotia. A new ship, the Nova Star, has been built especially for the trip and has capacity for 1,215 passengers. The ship offers 163 cabins, a casino, three restaurants, a salon, spa and a theatre with live entertainment. The journey takes around ten hours each way and will offer daily sailings between the two locations. Tickets start from £42 per person, one-way.

For details visit www.novastarcruises.com A NEW zip line experience will open in Snowdonia next month. Zip World Titan will offer a series of three wires, flying daredevils along 8km of wire at up to 70 miles per hour.

For details see www.zipworld.co.uk/titan DFDS' PASSENGER ferry route between Harwich and Esbjerg has been struggling with high costs, loss of passengers and freight being switched to road transport.

The route is therefore unable to bear the substantial additional costs that a new environmental law will entail and will close on September 29. The company aims to ensure freight customers still receive a good service on the freight route between Esbjerg and Immingham. The two big and modern vessels offer a daily departure each way with a crossing time of 18 hours.

Details at visit www.dfds.co.uk ARBLASTER & CLARKE has launched a 13-night Chile, Argentina & Uruguay wine tour. Highlights include a stay at the 2,600-hectare private Vineyard Estate on the Maipo River in Chile; tastings and dinners hosted by Cassone, Zuccardi, Catena, Luigi Bosca and Weinert in Argentina; and sampling tannat grapes in Uruguay. The tour runs from February 16 to March 1, 2015 and prices lead in at £4,450 per person including five-star hotel accommodation and private wine estates; 18 meals with wines; internal flights from Mendoza to Buenos Aires including pre-payable flight taxes; ferry crossings from Colonia del Sacramento to Buenos Aires and Montevideo to Buenos Aires in First Class; visits and tastings as per the itinerary; a wine guide and tour manager.

Call 01730-263111 or visit www.winetours.co.uk

AFFILIATE PROGRAMME

“Pete was so impressed with he couldn’t wait to tell his colleagues.”

Wight World experiences from Wightlink WIGHTLINK FERRIES has joined forces with 17 of the top attractions on the Island to create Wight World experiences.

Priced from £48, a Wight World ticket entitles visitors to day return travel for one car, a driver and six passengers, as well as entrance to one of the Island’s attractions for the whole party.

Just 45-minutes away from Portsmouth or Lymington, Wight World days out offer easier access to a wide range of attractions - from theme parks and historic sights, to animal parks and outdoor adventures, with prices from £6.85 per person.

The operator's partnerships and events manager, Sam Woodman, said: “Our Wight World ticket allows greater value and easier access to the Isle of Wight and its wonderful attractions and experiences than ever before. With a huge variety of ticket options, there is something for anyone looking to make the most that the Island has to offer.”

For a full list of participating attractions and to book see www.wightlink.co.uk/wightworld

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www.expedia.co.uk/taap hotels to choose from flight + hotel package combinations course - www.expediataaptraining.co.uk

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newsbulletin

Notes from . . . n o t n a m r o N ELL THAT was a bit of a shock – Villa Parade ceasing trading. Why is it always the nice companies? It felt worse because they were a local tour operator – a Yorkshire based company in Huddersfield. I would like to wish them all lots of success and hope all the team manage to find other jobs soon – very sad. Was helping out at Idle Travel when I saw it on my Facebook/travel gossip - we had someone going in a week’s time, so it was all hands on deck to try and find them something else – I did feel sorry for the family because they were taking grandkids with them and she was saying how excited they were and counting how many sleeps to go – it was fortunate that they could fork out again so that they could still go. Michelle, who had done the original booking, managed to keep them happy as they do come in a bit guns blazing don’t they? She found them something with Cosmos so all happy in the end, but it took some hours and great teamwork. It must be awful for customers who have saved up hard to go on holiday and then something like this happens – as she said, they would not have been able to go if a member of the family hadn’t been able to lend them the money until they claimed it back! Don’t think many families have a spare £5,000 to fork out again.

It is that time of the year again - Travel Bulletin Star Awards voting time! You will all have seen the voting forms I am sure, and you know what I am going to say next...Come on all you Yorkshire agents (AND nonYorkshire agents) get voting for Leeds Bradford International Airport for Star UK Airport - it is a fantastic airport and they are improving and doing new things constantly. Whilst on LBIA, just want to wish James Broughton (who I am sure you all know) and his lovely wife Charlotte congratulations on the birth of their new baby daughter, Olivia.

‘Of all the things you wear, your expression is the most important’ and ‘One thing you can give and still keep – is your word’.

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by SANDRA MURRAY in Normanton, Yorkshire

Go

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WEBSCLUSIVES ●

Win a case of wine courtesy of the southern French region of Languedoc Roussillon.

Enter our competition today at: www.travelbulletin.co.uk/competitions

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Win a Kindle Fire HD courtesy of Nira Caledonia. For your chance to get your hands on this lovely bit of kit, go to www.travelbulletin.co.uk/competitions

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Win an exclusive luxury VIP hamper courtesy of Maritim Hotel Mauritius.

To enter, just answer 5 simple questions at www.travelbulletin.co.uk/competitions

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Win a Kindle from the Greece National Tourist Office.

Enter now at www.travelbulletin.co.uk/competitions

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

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COCKTAIL COUP... Pictured on a cocktail making challenge at Hook & Ladder Manufacturing Company, as part of Funway's California fam (co-sponsored by Visit California and United Airlines) are the winning team - from the left: Susan Murrie, Freedom Travel Group; David Emmerson, Holiday Getaway; Carol Shoesmith, Hays Travel; and Chris Tucker, Hook & Ladder's resident head mixologist. The week-long fam saw ten agents take in a range of experiences in the Golden State including a visit to a sustainable fish farm and beer tasting and a brewery tour at New Helvetia Brewing. Agents looking to get involved with upcoming fam trips can visit www.funway4agents.co.uk

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

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agentbulletin Booking incentives ●

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TRAVEL 2 has two iPad Airs up for grabs as part of its new ‘For the complete experience fly with Cathay Pacific to Hong Kong & New Zealand’ campaign. To be entered into the prize draw, agents need to make a new booking with Travel 2 that includes flights with Cathay Pacific and a minimum of three nights’ ground arrangements in Hong Kong or New Zealand. Qualifying bookings must be made by June 6. The operator has also teamed up with Australian Pacific Touring to offer two iPad Airs as part of its new ‘Endless Discovery with APT & Travel 2’ campaign. For a chance to win, agents must make a new holiday booking with Travel 2 and APT by June 8.

For details see www.travel2.com LUXURY HOLIDAY Collection by Fleetway has launched its first fam trip and booking incentive, having gained access to a range of deals in the Mediterranean, Morocco and Egypt. Agents making three package holiday bookings by June 30 will receive a free four-night stay for themselves and a friend at Mazaghan Beach Hotel in Morocco, including breakfast. Agents booking five or more packages will receive a four-night breakfast stay for two at the property, including flights from Gatwick.

Meanwhile, the operator has announced plans to

host a fam trip to Mazaghan Beach.

Interested agents should email agents@luxuryholidaycollection.com or call 020-7082 0600. ●

TO MARK its ‘Last Minute Luxury’ campaign, Celebrity Cruises is giving agents the chance to win one of five £100 Red Letter Day lifestyle vouchers when they confirm a booking by May 31. The latest offer gives agents the chance to secure their clients a value summer holiday for travel in July and August. As an example, a ten-night Eastern Mediterranean cruise-only costs from £999 per person, based on two sharing an interior stateroom for a July 25 departure.

For details see www.cruisingpower.co.uk

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CORSICAN PLACES is offering agents £25 worth of High Street vouchers for every Manchester to Figari (Southern Corsica) holiday booking made between now and the end of this month. The operator’s new and exclusive charter flight with the airline Flybe will operator on Sundays for a 14-week period, from June 22 – September 21.

For details email trade@serenity.co.uk or see www.serenity.co.uk/trade

Agent offer

s on INTORUSSIA IS offering exclusive discount their and ts select Russian River Cruises for agen -star four on families. The high season departures, full s, sfer Russian river cruise liners, include tran t and men rtain board accommodation, on board ente er emb daily excursions. As an example, a Sept rg to Moscow sailing on MS Tolstoy from St Petersbu excluding costs from £540 (reduced from £1,290) flights and based on two sharing.

It’s in the stars…

What’s in store for Gemini?

IF YOU'VE got a project on the go - either at home or at work, try to be patient until the end of the month when your efforts will reap rewards. This month and next are also strong for practical matters but don't enter into something if it will upset family and friends, who are looking to spend more quality time with you.

Lucky number: 32

ALL THE FUN AT THE FAIR...Agents attending Tipto's 15th birthday celebrations event at Drayton Manor Hotel received free tickets to Drayton Manor Theme Park.

Pictured at the park, and escorted by Tipto member Do Something Different, are, from the left: Lucy Jones, Do Something Different; Simon Orman , The Travel Shop; and Stef Trevett, Bailey’s Travel.

Lucky day: Wednesday www.travelbulletin.co.uk

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newsbulletin Tweets of the Week Who’s saying what on Twitter... @CornwallsCrealy Tree Fu Tom is an ordinary boy who turns into a tiny but mighty superhero. Join him on 27th May for Meet & Greet sessions! @HertzOffersUK Looking to get away this coming Bank Holiday?

Book a car from just £12 per day: http://bit.ly/1mq9IHj @VikingCruisesUK Journey with us to Bordeaux and taste some of the magnificent wines the region has to offer! http://bit.ly/1mUx1vL pic.twitter.com/ 6MCPgk3Wtz @Black_Tomato It's not all about winter in #Iceland - find out why we love to spend #summer there too... http://bit.ly/1lMw9Zs @CosmosHolidays This beautiful villa in Crete is now on offer 7 nights only £179 including flights. http://ow.ly/wS9hO

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

PARTY PALS...Contiki has expanded its Latin America programme for 2015/16 to include 21 itineraries plus the introduction of Belize, Guatemala and Colombia as new destinations for 2015. As an example, an 11-day Hola Colombia itinerary costs from £1,644 per person including flights, transport, accommodation, a special stay in Columbia’s famous coffee region, 15 meals, sightseeing and exclusive inclusions such as a guided bike tour of La Candelaria (Bogota). Pictured marking the new brochure launch at Floripa, a Brazilian themed bar in Shoreditch, are, from the left: Damien Bennett from Contiki with Unnath Patel, Dolly Sumanadasa and Ben Gibbons from Trailfinders Kensington.

For details see www.contiki.com

Mexico's Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya celebrates launch INCLUSIVE COLLECTION has announced the opening of its fourth all-inclusive Hard Rock Hotel, with the grand opening of Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya in Mexico taking place earlier this month.

The grand finale included a live beachside concert from rock icon Jon Bon Jovi and his New Jersey side band The Kings of Suburbia. Guests danced the night away and enjoyed the concert and views from the Woodstock Terrace. VIPs and celebrities mixed and mingled at the exclusive After Party at Club Heaven with DJ Connor Cruise and Jack Novak, and were entertained by a live fire show.

The new 1,264 guestroom property offers an ideal base for guests of all ages, with both adults-only and family-friendly resort experiences. Rooms feature balcony, terrace views or new, expansive sky terrace options, plus hydro tubs. Hotel facilities include outdoor pools, a private beach, nine restaurants, eight bars and lounges, plus 88,915sq.ft of meeting and event space, suitable for banquets, themed parties, weddings and concerts.

In addition, several youth-friendly

Launch of Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya

components including HIT Entertainment's Little Big Club, Teens Lounge & Club, snorkelling and kayaking are available, while the adults-only section, Heaven, includes the Hard Rock signature Rock Spa with 75 treatment rooms, four restaurants and three bars and lounges, including a premium service nightclub.

For more information or to book visit www.hrhrivieramaya.com

Apprenticeship drive for the business travel sector as GTMC champions young people A NEW government-backed apprenticeship scheme dubbed ‘Trailblazers’ is being championed by the Guild of Travel Management Companies – the GTMC. The People Strategy Group of the GTMC is actively involved in steering the development of the criteria of the apprenticeship, and the training and development on offer.

The recruitment of young people into the business travel sector, and the opportunities that the new apprenticeship scheme will bring to travel management companies is on the agenda at the upcoming GTMC

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conference on May 31 - June 2 in Marrakech. With a theme of ‘Innovation, Investment and People’ the conference features sessions and expert speakers on attracting and retaining young people, investing in talent and understanding the workers of the future.

The GTMC's chief executive, Paul Wait, said: “At the GTMC conference we will unveil research into the age demographics of those in the travel management sector. Shockingly just 7% of the GTMC’s member workforce is under the age of 24. Our dedicated strategy group looking at people issues

and opportunities for the business travel industry is addressing the important challenge of recruiting new talent into our profession. Getting behind the new Trailblazers apprenticeship is a great opportunity for our members and we urge them to have their say in the upcoming consultation period.”

The GTMC is hoping that its members will become part of the 340 employers expected to get involved in the government’s new approach to creating career opportunities for young people.

For more information visit www.gtmc.org

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puzzlebulletin Travagrams

Su Doku Win a £50 Love2Shop voucher in the

Su Doku prize puzzle

Number: 020

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

Arachnid Violent

A➠

B➠ An operator specialising in a peninsula in Southeast Asia

C➠

Zaw Riz I

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:

Hungarian low-cost airline

Where Am I?

competition@travelbulletin.co.uk Closing date for entries is Thursday, May 29th. Solution and new puzzle will appear next week.

The winner for 9th May is Lisa Gilham, Travel Spalding in Lincs.

May 9 Solution: A=5 B=9 C=7 D=1

Richmond-Upon-Thames is twinned with this suburb of Paris.

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

Number: 020

Across 1. Bahrain carrier, ___ Air (4) 3. Largest of the Dodecanese islands (6) 7. Popular Anaheim-based theme park (10) 9. Holiday isle in the Bay of Naples (6) 11. Colorado ski resort (4) 13. Capital of Peru (4) 14. London-based tailor-made holidays operator (6) 16. Capital of Barbados (10) 18. Part of Wyndham, this operator specialises in holidays afloat (6) 19. Travel through spectacular South African scenery on this luxury ___ Train (4)

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Down 1. Scaly monster causing havoc at a cinema near you (8) 2. Lisbon international airport code (3) 4. Arsenal beat this City to win the 2014 FA Cup (4) 5. Country which hosted this year's Eurovision Song Contest (7) 6. Scenic Costa Blanca resort (5) 8. Popular Italian city break destination (8) 10. County home of the Lake District (7) 12. The Jungfrau Railway tunnels through this mountain (5) 15. Monty Python member, Eric (4) 17. Oslo Gardermoen airport code (3)

For the solution to the Crossword, Where Am I? and Travagrams, please see page 26 May 23 2014

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cruisebulletin Experience the Baltic in 2015 on two new itineraries from Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines Joining either of the cruises, guests will experience six destinations as well a scenic cruise through the Kiel Canal Transit in daylight, which is restricted to ships of up to 235m in length and 40m in height.

The UNESCO-listed historic centre of Riga in Latvia is one of the lively cities guests will visit, and Braemar will dock just 500m from the very heart of Riga, giving guests the chance to experience the capital city’s Art-Nouveau architecture, historic old quarter and green parks.

Other ports of call include Helsinki in Finland, where guests can visit the Uspenski

Image: fotoseeker.com

FRED. OLSEN Cruise Lines is offering guests the chance to experience the Baltic region like never before next year.

Taking advantage of Braemar’s shallow draft, the line is offering guests two new 14-night cruise holidays entitled ‘In the Heart of the Baltic’, departing from Dover on either May 9 or August 9, 2015, which will take guests to the very ‘heart’ of quaint towns and vibrant cities of the Baltic.

Solo travellers opting to book on the May 9 departure will benefit from no single supplement on selected outside twin-bedded cabins when they make a booking

by June 30.

Braemar

Cathedral, Senate Square, Helsinki Cathedral, Finlandia Hall, the National Museum or the Olympic Stadium; Copenhagen in Denmark; Aalborg in Denmark; plus an overnight stay in Russia's St. Petersburg, followed by Travemünde in Germany.

Prices for the ‘In the Heart

of the Baltic’ cruise start from £1,499 per person, based on two adults sharing a twin inside cabin, and include accommodation, all meals and entertainment on board, plus port taxes.

For details see www.fredolsencruises.com or call 0800-035 5242.

SeaDream Yacht Club's SeaDream I operates Baltic & Norwegian Fjords sailings IN RESPONSE to popular demand from previous guests, SeaDream I will operate five sailings in the Baltic followed by three sailings to the Norwegian Fjords for her 2014 Northern Europe season.

The vessel will explore the summer yachting ports of Northern Europe, including overnight stays in popular cities, with exclusive berthing privileges. Ports of call include the Neva River by the Hermitage in St. Petersburg and Stockholm’s historic Gamla Stan.

A highlight of the summer season sees SeaDream Yacht Club operating

its first cruise from the UK, a 14-night Baltic Capitals voyage departing on August 16 sailing round-trip from Dover, with lead-in early booking fares starting from £5,302 per person. After the inaugural round-trip UK sailing, SeaDream I heads for Lisbon, then Rome and on to Athens to join sister SeaDream II in the Mediterranean through to the end of the summer.

During the 2014/15 season, SeaDream I & SeaDream II will sail the British Virgin Islands, the French West Indies, the Grenadines and other islands. After a break of several years, SeaDream is

returning to St. Croix, and clients looking for unique ports of call will enjoy St. Kitts, St. Lucia and Dominica.

As an example, a seven-night voyage on SeaDream II departing round-trip from Bridgetown on January 10 costs £2,419 per person, based on two sharing. It includes accommodation, all meals on board, complimentary Champagne and open bar, wines with lunch and dinner, gratuities, use of recreational toys and government, port and handling fees.

For details call 0800-783 1373 or visit www.seadream.com

InBrief ● REGENT SEVEN Seas Cruises has announced new fares for two of its

sailings in China/Japan in February 2015, combinable with free three-night pre- or post-cruise land programmes for guests staying in Concierge Suites or higher. From £5,799 per person, guests can explore hidden treasures from Hong Kong to Beijing or Beijing to Tokyo with either a 16-night or 18-night voyage including flights, transfers, shore excursions, fine dining and beverages. Each sailing also includes up to five overnight stays throughout the cruise including Shanghai, Kyoto and Xiamen, as well as land-based programmes for three nights.

For details call 02380-682280 or visit www.rssc.com ● NOVEMBER 30 is the first of 11 Jazz days on Crystal Cruises’ Jazzthemed voyage sailing through the Panama Canal and Central America. Featuring a new Crystal Serenity itinerary from Costa Rica to Miami, more than 20 of the genre’s most accomplished musicians will perform daily and nightly shows in the ship’s theatres, nightclubs and lounges. The Experiences of Discovery luxury cruise will also offer expert theme lectures, with all

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enrichment programming offered complimentarily throughout the sailing. Until June 30, all-inclusive 'Book Now' fly/cruise fares start from £3,653 per person.

Call 020-7399 7601 or visit www.crystalcruises.co.uk for details. ● VOYAGES TO Antiquity has announced its summer 2015 programme featuring 16 new destinations and six new itineraries. In addition to returning to Greece, Turkey and Italy, the 2015 season ventures further afield to Southern Spain as well as France, Morocco and Gibraltar. Brochure prices start from £2,195 per person for a 12-day cruise-tour, including scheduled flights and transfers. Prices also include free domestic flight connections via London from seven regional airports, shore excursions, a team of guest speakers, Quietvox headsets to enhance sightseeing experiences, gratuities to cabin and restaurant staff on-board and all dining on board, as well as wine with dinner. Cabin savings of up to £700 are also available for early bookers as well as low supplements for single travellers in selected cabins.

Details at www.voyagestoantiquity.com or call 0845-437 9737.

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Sea Captains In every issue this month, we will remind you of the Travel Bulletin Star Awards available in each of the industry sectors - and this week it's the turn of 'Sea Captains'. Take a look at the 2014 categories in this sector and decide who, for you, has stood out from the crowd. A previous winner also reflects on their Star Awards experience and their relationship with the trade...

2014 Sea Captains categories There are four categories to vote for in Sea Captains.

They include: ●

Star Family Cruise Company

●

Star River Cruise Company

●

Star Luxury Cruise Company

●

Star Specialist Cruise Company

Agent voting is open until 6th June 2014.

You can fill in the voting form online at www.travelbulletin.co.uk/ awards/the-voting or complete the printed form accompanying this week's issue. Remember there are some fantastic prizes to be won in a free prize draw.

Winner's Words

Last year's winner under the 'Sea Captains' category for 'Star Specialist Cruise Company’ went to Hurtigruten. Here, the company's sales manager UK & Ireland, Maxine Parker, reflects on last year's win and outlines the company’s latest news and developments with the trade...

What was the highlight of the 2013 Star Awards evening?

There were so many highlights, from the great entertainment to the amazing food and venue but overall, winning the award was probably the biggest highlight for me.

What made winning your award so special last year?

That it was voted for by our trade partners makes it even more special.

How have you continued to work with the trade this year?

We have improved our trade communication,

with more regular updates to offer newsletters, flyers and email campaigns. We also now have a new position within our agency sales department dedicated to supporting our partners with training and events, plus we have just recently gone live on Amadeus Cruise, offering agents another booking platform and live availability.

What developments in the industry as a whole do you think that agents should be aware of?

Agents need to ensure that they are engaging with customers online, not just relying on a shop to generate sales. The digital environment continues to become more and more important and is the perfect way to engage with customers and seal a booking. If you are not engaging with your customers via your own

website and social media channels, someone else will. Cruise holidays have also become more mainstream over the last few years, yet the options within the market sector vary enormously. It is important that agents undertake training to ensure that they sell the right product to the right customer.

What new developments have you announced since last year?

And do you have any new plans in the pipeline?

We have launched a number of charter departures from new regional airports to support our Northern Lights packages. Our decision to launch these routes was based around the fantastic trade support we have in these regions. New airports include Cardiff, Dublin, East Midlands, Newcastle and Jersey.

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FUN IN PARADISE

With more than 5,000 islands, reefs and cays dotted around the Caribbean, you’ll get to experience a whole lot of Paradise!

With 18 ships sailing the stunning blue waters, Carnival offers you plenty of choice for your next cruise, with beaches, shore adventures, isles and so much more. There is something for everyone in the Caribbean, with a warm welcome and fantastic hospitality wherever you go.

So get exploring!

TM

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Now Sapphire Riviera Cancun

caribbean AMRESORTS IS currently offering two separate incentives for agents. For all FIT bookings, agents can earn up to £100 in Love2Shop vouchers, while wedding bookings will see agents earn up to £500 in Love2Shop vouchers. The offers are not combinable and full terms and conditions can be found at www.amragents.com

Sandos marks region’s history with free cultural activities for guests SANDOS CARACOL Eco Experience Resort sits in the heart of what was once a Mayan community, today known as 'Xcalacoco', which is surrounded by jungle, mangroves and the Caribbean Sea. To celebrate the history and heritage of the region, the resort has created a Xcalacoco Experience which gives guests the opportunity to learn more about Mayan and Mexican culture. The new offering teaches visitors all about Mayan customs and the ecosystems found throughout the area through interactive activities. Guests can participate in different activities daily, with each day of the week set aside to honour a different element.

In addition to the day-to-day element activities, the resort also offers a selection of eco attractions for guests to explore, ranging from the Mayan jungle with more than 60 species of wild animals and bike paths, to a Cenote route to explore the numerous natural springs and a boat ride through the mangroves.

A 'Plant a Tree' programme is also available for guests to commemorate their stay and give something back to nature.

For further information see http://xcalacocoexperience.com

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THOMSON HAS announced the opening of its sixth five-star Sensatori Resort in Jamaica. Set on the seven-mile beach in Negril, the luxury hotel offers swim-up rooms, fine dining and tranquil massage huts on the beach. Other offerings include four restaurants, a 'Gourmet Inclusive' dining programme, a reggae lounge, a range of children’s facilities, plus sports and activities.

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caribbean

InBrief ● THE FAIRMONT Hamilton Princess in Bermuda is in the process of a

HALF MOON in Montego Bay, Jamaica has introduced a new guided bike tour that traces the 60-year history of the resort. It starts at the West Cottages – the oldest part of the resort - and takes in the dolphin lagoon, nature reserve and golf course. The tour includes a stop at Sunrise Beach for a drink of coconut water and ends at the yoga pavilion at the Fern Tree Spa with a power shake or smoothie.

For details visit www.halfmoon.com

'This Could Be Your' campaign from Carnival rewards guests with credit CARNIVAL CRUISE Lines has announced a new campaign for this month. 'This Could Be You' rewards guests with up to $50 onboard credit or two-category upgrades, for bookings made

by May 31.

Cruises which set sail during this period will carry onboard credit offers, whilst those sailing between August 1 and December 31 will carry the offer of a two-category upgrade.

Clients booking three- or four-day cruises will be offered $20 onboard credit per stateroom, and those booking cruises for five days or more will receive $50 credit.

The line's head of sales, Iain Baillie, said: “Offering onboard credit on top of our competitive pricing means that guests that book a Carnival cruise will be able to enjoy a shore excursion, a spa treatment or some of our speciality dining options for free, letting them experience more of our fantastic product as part of the initial cost.”

As an example of itineraries, an Exotic Eastern Caribbean sailing on Carnival Sunshine, departing on October 17 and calling at Port Canaveral, Grand Turk, St Thomas, St Maarten and San Juan, costs from £429 and includes the free twocategory upgrade, For further information or to book visit www.carnival.co.uk

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$90million upgrade. A significant element of the project is the development of a new marina offering 60 berths, ranging in size to accommodate pleasure craft and tournament fishing boats, as well as super yachts. It will debut in July.

Details at www.fairmont.com/hamilton-bermuda ● FOLLOWING A brief closure to undertake an enhancement programme, Sandals Barbados will reopen its doors on January 28, 2015. Guests can now book a Luxury Included stay at the property for travel from January 28, 2015 through December 2016 with holidays starting from £1,619 per person for seven nights. For more information call 020-7590 0210 or visit www.sellingsandals.co.uk ● NISBET PLANTATION Beach Club in Nevis has launched a new family package for this summer where families pay for one Deluxe Garden Suite and get a second connecting room for free – offering a saving of more than US$2,900. Summer activities for families range from crab racing and beach cricket, to sandcastle making competitions and basket weaving. The package is available until August 15. See www.nisbetplantation.com ● MOUNT CINNAMON Resort & Beach Club Resort in Grenada has created Camp Cinnamon - a summer family escape, which includes a cultural programme for children aged four-12, designed to provide children with an experience of Grenada’s history and traditions. For each programme booked, a local child will attend Camp Cinnamon free of charge. Rates for the package start from US$2,500 (£1,646) for a one-bedroom villa (sleeps two adults and two children) and includes seven nights’ stay for the price of five, two hours’ free babysitting daily and airport transfers.

For details see www.mountcinnamongrenadahotel.com or email reservations@mountcinnamongrenada.com ● ELEGANT HOTELS in Barbados has launched a Bajan Kids Adventure Camp designed for children aged ten-16 at a range of familyfriendly properties in Barbados, including Turtle Beach, Tamarind, Crystal Cove and the Colony Club. The camp offers off-site activities, including horse-riding through a tropical forest; a catamaran tour with the chance to snorkel and swim with sea turtles and explore a shallow shipwreck; and an underwater voyage on a submarine tour.

Activities are scheduled Monday –Friday and the camp costs around £75 per child for two days.

See www.eleganthotels.com ● THE DUTCH Caribbean island of Aruba has launched a Dine Around scheme, operated by the Aruba Gastronomic Association (AGA), which enables visitors to get a generous helping of local cuisine at a digestible price. More than 20 restaurants, from ethnic to international, are included in the scheme, which enables travellers to buy in advance a fixed-price dining plan but which allows them to select their meal from the full menu.

For more information see www.aruba.com ● ELITE ISLAND Resorts Group has teamed up with Virgin Holidays and global DJ Maseo (of hip hop group De La Soul), to create a silent disco concept for guests to enjoy through the sound of high quality wireless headphones, allowing guests wearing the headphones to dance up and down the beaches of Palm Island Resort, Grenadines and Galley Bay Resort & Spa Antigua. DJ Maseo will appear at Palm Island Resort Grenadines on June 5 and at Galley Bay Resort & Spa Antigua in September to launch the “Big SSSSH” programme, which will form part of a monthly offering organised by the resort teams on Palm Island and at Galley Bay from January 2015. A seven-night stay at Palm Island with Virgin Holidays costs from £1,667 per person, offering a saving £198 per person including flights, transfers and all-inclusive accommodation, based on a June 2 departure.

Details at www.eliteislandresorts.co.uk

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caribbean Tone up for summer at Antigua’s Curtain Bluff

RIU HOTELS & Resorts is set to purchase a luxury hotel in the French part of the Caribbean island of St. Martin later this month, with a US$45million investment. The Riu Palace St. Martin offers 252 guestrooms in a seafront location, along with several restaurants, bars, swimming pools, sports and aquatic activities, a mini-club for kids, a spa and marina, plus meeting and event spaces.

For details visit www.riu.com

GUESTS STAYING at Curtain Bluff in Antigua this summer can now shape up with the resort’s new ‘Tan, Tone & Spa’ and ‘Active’ experiences.

Along with a variety of inclusive watersports, use of the tennis and squash courts, daily exercise classes and healthy meals, the all-inclusive property is providing an all-round health and fitness escape coupled with pampering treatments in its spa.

‘Tan, Tone & Spa’ experiences include seven nights’ all-inclusive accommodation; two spa treatments per person; a yoga session, a personal training session and tennis lesson for couples; and a consultation with the chef to discuss healthy menu choices.

The ‘Active’ experience includes seven nights’ allinclusive accommodation; a guided rainforest hike; a rainforest canopy tour (ten zip lines) with transfers; a de-stresser massage person; and a swim with stingrays.

Guests can also choose a ‘stay seven nights for the price of six’ option, with prices leading in at £2,589. The deal offers a saving of £350 when booked through Tropic Breeze.

The offer is based on two adults sharing a deluxe room on an all-inclusive basis, with British Airways flights, transfers and one of the resort’s experiences.

To book see www.tropicbreeze.co.uk or call 01752880880 and for further information on the property visit www.curtainbluff.com

Tobago welcomes additional airlift from BA & Monarch for winter season THE TOBAGO House of Assembly has announced an increase in winter flights from both British Airways and Monarch Airlines.

As of October 26, two additional BA flights will operate via Antigua to the island of Tobago, increasing capacity on the route by 100% to meet demand. This is closely followed by an additional direct weekly Monarch Airlines flight, which commences on December 16.

The additional airlift will offer holidaymakers and those returning home to visit friends and family a wider itinerary choice. Holidaymakers can extend the standard one week stay to a ten- or 11-night holiday, whilst those visiting family can shorten the stay to a four- or fivenight visit depending on their needs. The increase will also make twin-centre Caribbean stays easier and couples looking to travel for their honeymoon will benefit from being able to jet off straight after a weekend wedding.

Cosmos Holidays is offering rates from £699 per person, based on a June 11 departure, including seven nights' breakfast stay at Half Moon Hotel in Bacolet Bay, flights and transfers. For details see www.cosmos.co.uk.

Meanwhile, a new awareness campaign ‘Live the Culture Tobago Style’ has been launched by the Tobago House of Assembly which draws on the destination's history and culture.

The campaign highlights the unspoilt natural beauty, accessible authenticity and individual splendour that sets the island apart from other regional destinations.

For more information visit www.visittobago.gov.tt and www.gotrinidadandtobago.com

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uk&ireland Applecrate Hilltop Reserves opens in July with 10% commission to agents THE ISLE of Eriska Hotel, Spa & Island, located two hours north of Glasgow, has announced that its new luxury lodges, Applecrate Hilltop Reserves, will be open for seasonal ownership from July. The suites will offer visitors a chance to make Eriska a home from home, with the ease of a one-off purchase

and no annual maintenance charge.

Stays can be redeemed in blocks of three, four and seven nights, up to 21 nights per year at any time, giving guests flexibility on when they visit and for how long.

The two luxury lodges will each have their own private hot tub, as well as high speed Wi-Fi; an

Hoseasons teams up with Equator Learning to offer online training HOSEASONS HAS launched its new online training programme for UK travel agents in association with Equator Learning.

The modules provide an ideal tool for travel agents to gain a wealth of knowledge about products that the company has to offer, along with advice on how to find the best UK self-catering holidays and deals.

The operator's head of sales, Zena Calderbank, said: “I’m thrilled to announce the launch of our new sleek, online training programme where travel agents will learn all about Hoseasons products as well as picking up handy tips on how to find the best deals using website filters, top selling advice and booking trends to help them sell more UK. “There is also a social media section highlighting how Hollie Hoseasons can help agents keep up-to-date with all our latest news, incentives, campaigns and products.”

The company is currently offering the first 100 agents who complete all four modules a £5 Love2Shop voucher.

To access the training visit www.hoseasonsexpert.co.uk and for more information see www.hoseasons.co.uk/agents or call 0844-847 1144.

entertainment system; heating and water system; en-suite bedroom; and a modern kitchen.

The hotel is offering a package of seven nights for ten years at the opening price of £12,000. Agents selling the Applecrate Hilltop Reserves will receive 10% commission.

Air Canada rouge inaugurates year-round service from Dublin to Toronto AIR CANADA rouge has inaugurated a year-round non-stop service from Dublin to Toronto, with four weekly flights from the Irish capital to its Toronto hub, Toronto Pearson International Airport.

The service will increase to daily during the summer peak from June 23.

The carrier's general manager UK, Ireland and Northern Europe, Robert Atkinson, said: “We are excited to launch the Air Canada rouge year-round service, offering our customers in Ireland competitive fares, a relaxed in-flight environment and outstanding customer service.

“As well as benefiting from direct access to our Toronto hub, customers can take advantage of convenient connections to destinations across North, Central and South America, and the Caribbean.”

The route is operated by 280-seat wide-body Boeing 767300ER aircraft which features a two-cabin configuration, with 24 Premium rouge seats offering both additional legroom and enhanced meal and beverage service in the front cabin, and 256 rouge seats – including 35 rouge Plus seats with additional legroom – in the rear cabin.

For more information visit www.aircanada.com

Comedy & Live Music Weekend agent educationals from £50 with Butlins BUTLINS IS offering agents the chance to experience educationals for £50 per person next month.

The operator has added a new Comedy Festival to its portfolio of events, and agents have the opportunity to join pub landlord Al Murray, who will be headlining the weekend in Bognor Regis on June 6. Joining him will be Simon Brodkin aka Lee Nelson; Dave Spikey; Hal Cruttenham; current Eastenders' cast member, Terry Alderton; Police Academy star Michael Winslow; and more than 50 other comics.

Alternatively, agents who prefer to experience a Live Music

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Weekend can book to attend a Hot Summer Party on June 20 at Skegness. Stars include Jaki Graham, Chesney Hawkes, Snap!, Aswad, 911 and S Club Party.

Three-night educationals cost £50 per person based on four sharing a Silver room. Agents should choose the break they would like to experience in preference order and complete their details on the booking form at www.bourneleisuresales.co.uk If an agent is successful they will be contacted by Bourne Leisure to take payment.

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uk&ireland

Warner Leisure Hotels launches Piano Legends show WARNER LEISURE Hotels has launched its new team show ‘Piano Legends’ which takes guests on a theatrical journey featuring music from iconic classical composers and famous rock legends.

The line-up of performances will include a selection of music and songs from some of the best musicians of all time. Guests will get to enjoy music by legendary artists who captured the heartbeat of the piano such as Elton John, Barry Manilow, Neil Sadaka and Carole King.

The show will be available across the company's portfolio of hotels and will be shown on specific dates from late June to August, with four-night breaks leading in at £219 per person, based on two sharing a standard room from August 4 at Lakeside Coastal Village, Hampshire. It includes the Simply Dine option (halfboard) and the Piano Legends show.

Meanwhile, the company is launching new summer menus for guests. The current 'Food from the Decades' menu will be replaced by an 'Around the World in 80 Dishes' themed menu from the end of May to July in the main restaurants at all 13 locations on Thursdays and Sundays.

For more information see www.bourneleisuresales.co.uk or call 0808-141 111.

Shopping package from Nira Caledonia NIRA CALEDONIA in Edinburgh is offering an 'Ultimate Shopping Experience' package which has been designed for small groups of friends with discerning tastes.

Prices lead in at £695 per person based on minimum of eight people travelling (with two adults sharing a room) and includes two nights' breakfast stay in an executive twin room at Nira Caledonia; a three-course dinner in Blackwood’s Bar & Grill; half a bottle of Champagne; exclusive use of Harvey Nichols for an hour with £375 for the group to spend; 10% discount at ROX the jewellers; 15% discount off cut and/or colour or complimentary treatment with a blow-dry at Vidal Sassoon; and £50 off a first purchase at Castle Fine Art. For more information or to make a booking see www.niracaledonia.com

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May 23 2014

THE MAYNARD in Derbyshire’s Peak District has launched a heritage breaks package, which offers a two-night breakfast stay for £70 per person, per night, plus one three-course meal in the hotel’s two AA rosette restaurant. Couples also receive a pair of complimentary tickets to Chatsworth House, and with the 105-acres of manicured gardens offering an ideal picnic setting, the hotel gives guests a day pack to take to the estate.

For details call 01433-630321 or email info@themaynard.co.uk

InBrief ● RED FUNNEL Isle of Wight Ferries recorded a bumper Easter, with

passenger figures up 47% over the Easter week. The figures follow a positive first quarter of 2014, during which the company has experienced a 13% increase in traffic year-on-year, and following its newly refurbished Red Falcon and a wide range of holiday offers, the company expects the positive trend to continue.

For details see www.redfunnel.co.uk or call 0844-844 2687. ● QBIC HOTEL London City has announced the next stage of its partnership with Bikeworks by introducing complimentary Qbic bicycles and helmets for hotel guests, along with in-hotel bike facilities and specially created cycle routes around London.

Visit www.london.qbichotels.com ● BIRMINGHAM ATTRACTED more international visits last year than ever before according to the latest figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS). The research reveals that there were almost one million visits to the city last year (941,000) - an increase of 228,000 on 2012’s figure of 713,000. ● FOUR PILLARS Hotels, which offers a collection of six hotels across Oxfordshire, Gloucestershire and the Cotswolds, is offering stays from £34.50 per person, per night including breakfast throughout this month, plus children stay and eat breakfast for free.

Further details at www.four-spring.co.uk or call 0800-374692. ● BRIGHTON SEAFRONT is hosting the Sand Sculpture Festival, which runs up to September 28. This year's theme takes visitors on a journey 'Around the World...in Sand' – with many changes and improvements to the site, as well as new hand carved sculptures from the pyramids to the Tower of Pisa. Visitors will also have the chance to get involved in sand sculpture workshops, live demonstrations, photo opportunities and a children's sand pit. A ticket to the festival includes a one-way trip on the Volks Railway from the station by Brighton Pier.

Details at www.brightonsandsculpture.co.uk ● AVIVA INVESTORS, owners of Corn Exchange Manchester, is considering plans for what will be Manchester's most exciting boutique hotel in the historic Grade II listed building. If successful, the new hotel will form part of the £30m leisure redevelopment programme, which will also see 13 new independent restaurants open in spring 2015.

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uk&ireland Private tours at Buckingham Palace with SuperBreak

Take to the river with City Cruises CITY CRUISES has launched its latest sightseeing offering - The Thames Circular, which sails from Tower Pier to Westminster and back in 45 minutes, to take in 45 of the capital's most famous landmarks.

The company's heritage vessel, Eleanor Rose, has undergone a £250,000 revamp to accommodate seven sailings daily, with live commentary for visitors to gain an insight into London's history.

Family tickets cost from £23.40, allowing up to three kids to travel for free when travelling with two paying adults. As well as a designated queue and guaranteed boarding time, groups of 20-plus can take advantage of 10% discounts.

Visit www.citycruises.com or call 020-7740 0400.

INTERCONTINENTAL HOTELS Group (IHG) has signed three additional Holiday Inn Express hotels - in Grimsby, Dublin (pictured) and Middlesbrough. The first of the three to open its doors (towards the end of 2015) will be Grimsby, where the 80room new build property will operate under a franchise agreement with Brayford Hotels. Both the Dublin and Middlesbrough properties are planned to open in 2016.

JUNE AND JULY SHORT BREAKS FROM

£239*

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Early Summer Getaways

CULTURE FANS can now take a short break to London with private evening tours of Buckingham Palace with SuperBreak.

After the doors have closed to the public for the day, visitors can take in the state rooms with an expert guide. The tour ends with a glass of Champagne served in the Bow Room with the chance to step on to the West Terrace to enjoy views over the famous lawn.

Short break packages are available on September 10 and 19, with prices leading in at £209 per person, and combine the evening tour with overnight accommodation.

For details see www.superbreak.com/agen ts or call 0871-221 4444.

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CALL 0844 847 1144 VISIT www.hoseasons.co.uk/agents

Celebrating 70 years of Hoseasons 1944 - 2014

See booking conditions for full details of our ABTA membership

*Price based on a 3/4 night stay for 4 people sharing between 31/05/14 -26/07/14. Applies to selected locations and accommodation types. Accommodation only.

Subject to availability, booking conditions apply, see brochure or website. ^Lowest Price Guarantee – we’ll match the price of any like for like accommodation for the same dates at the same location for the same number of people. Proof of booking price required in all cases. See brochure for full terms and conditions.

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fareast

Improved connections & new facilities offer Birmingham passengers greater choice

by MANDY HAQUE, airline & travel trade relations manager, Birmingham Airport HETHER IT’S trekking in the jungle, riding an elephant, tucking into street food, visiting a village tribe or simply relaxing on one of the many beautiful beaches, giving advice to clients wanting to visit the Far East isn’t too difficult.

However, the challenge might come when trying to find a choice of air connections from the UK given the lack of direct air travel to this part of the world, particularly to China.

Although Birmingham Airport may not currently be your first thought when giving advice on long-haul flights, you may be interested to know that last year, even without direct flights, 30,000 people flew to China from Birmingham, 17,000 to Thailand, 15,000 to Hong Kong, 8,000 to Malaysia and 6,000 to Japan.

These passengers used connections available with Emirates, Air France KLM, Turkish Airlines, Lufthansa and SAS, via hubs in Dubai, Paris, Amsterdam, Istanbul, Frankfurt, Munich, Dusseldorf and Zurich.

This demonstrates that people want to use their local airports rather than having to travel to airports further away to catch direct flights, and they are prepared to catch connecting flights for a hassle free alternative. This is because they appreciate the ease of getting to and getting through smaller airports, rather than more congested airports further away from home. After all, the connection time will often be shorter than the car journey to that other UK departure airport!

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Stronger ties With the UK’s ties to the Far East becoming stronger and stronger, it is vitally important for UK air connections to be available in more regions than just the south east.

In the Midlands alone, there are 60,000 people of Chinese origin, almost three and a half thousand businesses trading with China and 8,000 Chinese students attending 38 universities.

We recognise this strong demand and are proud to become the UK’s first airport to offer direct charter flights from Beijing this summer, with China Southern Airlines on July 22.

This has been delivered through continually working with tourism partners to sell the Midlands region in China, and has been made possible due to the completion of our runway extension that allows aircraft to take more

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fuel and fly direct to places in the Far East, the Americas and South Africa.

With plenty of spare capacity at Birmingham too, this development means that we can become an alternative long-haul gateway into the UK, helping to ease congestion at airports that are full and offer more choice for people who want to fly from their local airport.

A warm welcome Today, after a decade of investment and redevelopments, our passengers can enjoy a world class facility boasting 115 check-in desks, 44 shops and restaurants, four executive lounges, 20 immigration desks, a children’s play and entertainment facility, 15 security lanes, 13,000 car park spaces and three on site hotels.

And to welcome more people from China this summer, we are making a number of practical changes to ensure that the barriers that can often cause a stressful airport experience are avoided when travelling through Birmingham.

These changes include Chinese terminal signage, carrying out staff cultural awareness training, providing Mandarin speaking front of house staff and translating specific web pages into Mandarin.

We are also building a dedicated VAT refund facility for our Chinese visitors using the charter flights so they can reclaim VAT on their shopping purchases before jetting back home.

Many countries in the Far East require visitors to have a visa so we have recently partnered with The Travel Visa Company to help customers with their often complex visa applications.

The Travel Visa Company’s team will complete the required documentation and personally collect the visa once it has been approved - and even deliver it for free to the customer at the airport. (www.thetravelvisacompany.co.uk/china).

As you can see, it’s a very exciting time at Birmingham Airport and we hope to keep you up to date with developments through Travel Bulletin over the coming year.

In the meantime, if you have any questions or comments, please remember that the Birmingham Airport Gurus are here to help. You can contact them on 0121-767 8461 or email at traveltradeteam@birminghamairport.co.uk or via our Facebook page - facebook.com/airportgurus ✦

May 23 2014

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fareast Savings of up to 75% on child fares with Malaysia Airlines MALAYSIA AIRLINES has launched a Summer Getaway Special deal for bookings made by May 31 for travel between July 7 and August 14.

Families, in particular, will benefit from the range of offers, with children’s sale fares representing a 75% saving on regular fares. As an example, a family of four (two adults and two children), travelling to Langkawi during the summer peak, will pay £533 for each child giving a total of £2,984, including taxes, for the whole family.

Destinations included in the deal are: Kuala Lumpur, Langkawi, Penang, Alor Setar, Johor Bahru, Kota Kinabalu, Kuching, Miri, Sandakan, Tawau in Malaysia; Bangkok, Phuket, Krabi in Thailand; Jakarta and Denpasar-Bali in Indonesia; Singapore; Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam; Yangon, Myanmar; Manila, Philippines; Darwin, Perth, Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney in Australia; and Auckland, New Zealand.

For details see www.malaysiaairlines.com or call 0871-423 9090.

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AIR CHINA and Orientis DMC have returned from a jointly hosted fam trip showcasing the most popular sights in China. Agents travelled with Orientis guides to learn about historical highlights including the Temple of Heaven, The Forbidden City and the Great Wall of China in Beijing, the Terracotta Army in Xian and finishing in the modern metropolis of Shanghai. International and internal flights were supplied by Air China which were also part sponsored by Gatwick Airport where the airline has just recommenced its nonstop, four times weekly service to Beijing throughout the summer schedule. Pictured taking in the sights of Tiananmen Square are, from the left: David Ma, Orientis DMC; Nuri Lamin, Savile Row Travel; Craig McIver, Air China; Jamie West, Travelsphere; Peter Vasiliou, Best@Travel; Ran Bar Shalom, Orientis DMC; Christine Cummings, Inspired By Asia; Mia Skinner, Travelsphere; and Lee Ballard, Sandra Leach Company.

Thailand's Akaryn Samui Resort marks anniversary with new deal THE FIVE-STAR 'barefoot' resort Akaryn Samui Resort and Spa, located on Hanuman Bay, has announced the launch of a special second anniversary offer for guests.

Until July 14, rates have been reduced to US$200 (6,500 baht) for two people for one night staying in a Pool Suite, while a night in a Pool Suite Seaview or Pool Villa costs $262 (8,500 Akaryn Samui Resort & Spa baht).

Agents booking the deal should email Additional benefits of the package include rsvn@akaryn.com quoting 'CELEBRATE'. early check-in and late check out, breakfast, Additional benefits apply for long-stay transfers for guests staying three nights or guests, small group bookings and family more, free Wi-Fi and a 10% discount on all bookings. treatments at the resort's spa.

May 23 2014

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fareast

InBrief ● THROUGHOUT WINTER 2014 and spring 2015, Holland America Line will have two ships exploring Asia and the Far East, with new itineraries, Myanmar (Burma) calls and more overnight port stays. MS Volendam will sail a series of 14- to 17-day cruises, while MS Rotterdam will take an epic 88night “Passage to the Far East” roundtrip journey from Southampton.

For details see www.hollandamerica.co.uk or call 0843-374 2300. ● ON THE 10th anniversary of the former J Plus Boutique Hotel, a HK$10million refurbishment presents a new image for the property in Hong Kong's Causeway Bay. The yoo Studio has created a new look that builds on the original design, styled for fast living professionals and style-conscious travellers.

For details see www.yoo.com ● LONDON'S TRAFALGAR Square will be transformed into an exotic land as it showcases the culture and traditions of Indonesia. Running for one day - on Saturday May 31 - visitors to central London can experience the sights, sounds and flavours of the archipelago at a free “Hello Indonesia” celebration, supported by the Mayor of London. The festival will offer a programme of entertainment from 10:00-18:00 including traditional performances from Balinese dancers and musicians playing unique instruments, along with the opportunity to sample Indonesian cuisine and shop for handicrafts and unique items. For details see www.tourism-indonesia.co.uk ● BANGKOK AIRWAYS will offer golfers who travel between Bangkok – Chiang Mai to participate in the Chiang Mai Golf Festival 2014 an extra 10kg baggage allowance on top of the regular limit of 20kg at check-in.

The offer is available until June 30.

Details at www.bangkokair.com

Tactical offers from Premier Holidays PREMIER HOLIDAYS has put together a dedicated Indochina campaign to encourage client bookings, with a selection of tactical offers available for Vietnam, Cambodia and Burma.

The campaign offers clients the opportunity to experience the wonders of the countries, with options for guided touring, as well as city and beach itineraries. Pictured marking the launch of the Clients who choose to book new campaign is the operator's business development manager, the company's latest Carly Charteris, and national sales Indochina offers will benefit manager, Dave Kneale. from savings of up to £812 per couple, as well as added-value extras such as complimentary breakfast and private transfers throughout.

As an example, clients looking to experience Vietnam can choose from a 13-night Vietnam City & Beach offer from £1,099 per person, which includes three nights in Ho Chi Minh City, ten nights in Phan Thiet, private transfers and breakfast throughout.

Agents will also benefit from the operator's agent incentive, earning between £25-£150 per Indochina or Burma booking, dependent on the booking value.

For more information or to book visit www.trade.premierholidays.co.uk or call 0844-493 7444.

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fareast Kids stay & eat for free at Centara's Grand Beach Resort Phuket We asked our staff the following question this week: What do you consider unforgivable?

Publisher: Jeanette Ratcliffe jeanette.ratcliffe@travelbulletin.co.uk Not reading Travel Bulletin every week!

Editor: Lauretta Wright lauretta.wright@travelbulletin.co.uk Friends who turn out to be enemies

Assistant Editor: Jill Sayles jill.sayles@travelbulletin.co.uk Contributing Editor: Paul Scudamore post@travelbulletin.co.uk Rudeness, selfishness, self-serving politicians, corruption in all its forms...oh don't get me started!

Sales Director: Simon Eddolls simon.eddolls@travelbulletin.co.uk Saying no when you mean yes

Advertisement Manager: Tim Podger tim.podger@travelbulletin.co.uk Premeditated evil that harms other people

Online Sales Manager: Nick Boocock nick.boocock@travelbulletin.co.uk Apart from the very worst offences, most mistakes are redeemable

Account Manager: Bill Coad bill.coad@travelbulletin.co.uk United not being in Europe next year

Sales Executive: Chris Gascoine chris.gascoine@travelbulletin.co.uk England not winning this year's World Cup

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Senior Designer: Nicky Valsamakis nicky.valsamakis@travelbulletin.co.uk A Teletubby called Tinky Winky

Assistant Designer: Lee Telot lee.telot@travelbulletin.co.uk Putting nipples on the Batsuit

Production: Erica Sesay production@travelbulletin.co.uk Mayonnaise on chips- I think it's gross!

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

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A FAMILY holiday on the beach at Karon in Phuket is now more affordable under the Family Fun package offered by Centara Grand Beach Resort Phuket.

The five-star resort, which offers direct access to the beach, is designed around its own waterpark, with pools, slides and something for all ages to enjoy.

The package is available until October 31 and costs 35,500 baht (approximately £653) for five nights in a deluxe ocean-facing room, plus service charge and tax.

The rate is for two adults with up to two children staying in their parents’

room free of charge.

Daily breakfast is also included, while lunch or dinner for the kids is free when parents purchase a meal at the Mare or Cove restaurants.

One Thai cookery class and one Thai boxing lesson, or two Thai boxing lessons, are also available free to adults, and two children’s activities per stay are also included.

Also part of the package is a 50% discount voucher for a visit to the Splash Jungle Water Park at Centara Grand West Sands Resort & Villas Phuket.

For further information see www.centarahotelsresorts.com

Indonesia launch from Khiri Travel KHIRI TRAVEL has announced the launch of Khiri Travel Indonesia. The operator has teamed up with Sunda Trails and has opened with offices in Lombok and Flores, with dedicated English and Dutch speaking teams in place.

Sunda Trails has 12 years of inbound tourism operations experience in Indonesia, focusing mostly on ecotourism and rural community exploration, all with an emphasis on responsible travel. The company offers hiking, bicycle tours, diving, marine expeditions and anthropological trips throughout the Indonesian archipelago.

Initially, the islands east of Bali (Lombok, Sumbawa, Sumba and Flores), also known as the Lesser Sunda Islands (Nusa Tenggara Timor or East Nusa Tenggara) will remain as the cornerstone of the new tours.

Meanwhile, the operator has added a luxury carriage to the Luang Prabang-Hanoi train service linking Laos and Vietnam. The carriage sleeps six in airconditioned cabins and includes a lounge with food and beverage service, plus specially enlarged windows for viewing the mountain scenery between the UNESCO

heritage town and the Vietnamese capital.

All trips allow for a day of onboard sightseeing and an overnight sleep before a midmorning arrival the next day.

Agents seeking further information and rates should email luxtrain@khiri.com and quote booking code 'Midnight Express'.

The operator has also introduced luxury tented accommodation alongside the Banteay Chhmar temples in a remote corner of Cambodia. The initiative is being done with cooperation from the local community who are involved with tent setup, maintenance and providing hospitality. The aim is to help the community learn additional skills, which bring much needed extra income.

The company's general manager for Cambodia, Jack Bartholomew, said: “The tents are erected right alongside the temple ruins and guests get an authentic, away-fromit-all Khmer cultural experience. It’s a very peaceful, low impact and rewarding way to enjoy Khmer heritage and give back to the local community.”

For details email sales.cambodia@khiri.com

puzzlesolutions Crossword: Across: 1. GULF, 3. RHODES, 7. DISNEYLAND, 9. ISCHIA, 11. VAIL, 13. LIMA, 14. KIRKER, 16. BRIDGETOWN, 18. BLAKES, 19. BLUE. Down: 1. GODZILLA, 2. LIS, 4. HULL, 5. DENMARK, 6. DENIA, 8. FLORENCE, 10. CUMBRIA, 12. EIGER, 15. IDLE, 17. OSL.

Highlighted Word: GREECE Travagrams: (top) Travel Indochina

(bottom) Wizz Air

Where Am I?: Fontainebleau

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May 23 2014

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Fly to Asia and Australia with Air China

4 weekly flights from London Gatwick to Beijing and beyond

www.airchina.co.uk

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Experience Dubai’s Season of Endless Joy This Summer As a year-round destination, Dubai always hits the spot! With a rich cultural heritage – studded with festivals and entertainment, endless shopping & dining options or relaxing beach escapes, it’s easy to see why Dubai is welcoming more and more UK visitors between June & August each year. Escape the unpredictable UK summer showers and enjoy a world-class holiday for all the family at extraordinary value in Dubai, where the possibilities are endless...

Culture & the Arts

Relaxation & Shopping

While being possibly one of the most progressive cities QP VJG RNCPGV &WDCKoU TQQVU NKG Ć‚TON[ KP KVU VTCFKVKQP Nowhere is this more apparent than in the heartbeat of the city, the Creek. Take a break from the sunshine with a water taxi to the gold, spice & textile souks. Discover the importance of pearl diving in the region or visit the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding and immerse yourself in local history and Islamic culture, not to mention trying some of the traditional local cuisine.

After enjoying the evening’s pleasures in Dubai, what better way than to spend some time relaxing. Dubai is home to a wide range of fantastic spas, many of which have unique themes, styles and concept treatments.

Dubai has earned a reputation as the complete family destination with some excellent formats of entertainment to keep the entire family not just entertained, but inspired and excited. All the major resorts offer excellent childcare facilities to allow everybody to have time to relax but it’s the attractions for the whole family which sets it apart. The water parks including Aquaventure at the Atlantis the Palm and Wild Wadi offer exceptional value PP for family fun and educational CH IN G VOU attractions.

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Book online 24/7 at www.travel2.com or call Reservations FREE on 0800 0224 182 Incentive Terms & Conditions: http://www.travel2.com/sitecontent/terms/summerisdubai.html

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Along with the plethora of restaurants, Dubai also has an ever expanding calendar of events. Whether you want to enjoy a cool sea-breeze and shisha in Calibar or the Jetty Lounge at One&Only Royal Mirage, watch sports at Barasti or treat yourself to some cocktails at Neos at Address Downtown and maybe even sample some live music from some world-renowned artists, there’s sure to be a way to make your evening a memorable one in Dubai.

Beaches & Family Fun

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No Dubai holiday would be complete without a visit to one of the world-class eateries, where the cuisine is more than just a feast for the eyes. A high standard of cuisine doesn’t necessarily mean high prices, with thousands of restaurants in Dubai ranging from authentic Emirati street food to gourmet dining, there’s something on offer for every palette and budget.

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Dining out & Entertainment

From one type of therapy to another, retail! Put simply, Dubai is a shopper’s paradise, from the impressive Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates, the modern and traditional souks to the unbelievable value of the Dubai Outlet Mall, you’ll be sure to be heading home with more than just memories from your holiday.

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THE UK’s 100% Trade Only Tour Operator Book online 24/7 at www.travel2.com or call Reservations FREE on 0800 0224 182 Incentive Terms & Conditions: http://www.travel2.com/sitecontent/terms/summerisdubai.html