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April 25 2014 | ISSUE NO 1,869 | www.travelbulletin.co.uk
Star Awards preview
Vote for your stars of 2014!
this week agent bulletin 9 new offers & booking incentives for agents
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puzzle bulletin play Su Doku for your chance to win a ÂŁ50 M&S voucher
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bulletin briefing Global offers top marketing 'quick wins' for your business
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pix mix pictures from South African Tourism's agent fam trip
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CELEBRATE THE NEW SIMPLY LUXURY BY TRAVEL 2 SHORT HAUL BROCHURE AND BOOK A SELECTED NUMBER OF HOTELS TO DOUBLE YOUR INCENTIVE
Travel 2 presents Simply Luxury by Travel 2 Short Haul A collection of destinations that offer an array of cultural experiences, breathtaking beaches, an abundance of culinary delights and a selection of the finest hand-selected 4 & 5* luxurious hotels at exceptional value throughout Europe, Egypt and Morocco.
InterContinental Aphrodite Hills Resort, near Paphos Includes Return flights with British Airways from London Gatwick 7 nights in a Deluxe Room Garden/Pool View, bed & breakfast FROM £ PP Return private transfers Valid for travel: 14 May 14
899
Skiathos Princess Hotel, Skiathos Includes Return flights from London Gatwick 7 nights in a Club Superior Sea View Room, bed & breakfast Return private transfers
919PP
FROM £
Valid for travel: 28 May 14
Include British Airways in luxury short haul holiday bookings to ensure your clients breeze through their journey. With excellent value for money that includes a bag per person, seat reservation capabilities and online check-in, they promise a journey of comfort and relaxation.
TO CONTACT OUR SIMPLY LUXURY SPECIALISTS, CALL 0800 678 1497 AND SELECT OPTION 2 OR EMAIL SIMPLYLUXURY@TRAVEL2.COM 3228
*Incentive terms & conditions: http://www.travel2.com/sitecontent/terms/simplyluxury.html
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newsbulletin
SAFARI SO GOOD...Planet Destinations and Ethos Marketing jointly hosted a group of agents on a fam trip to one of the remotest game reserves in Tanzania – The Selous, followed by two days on the beach on the exotic spice island of Zanzibar. The group of 11 travelled with Ethiopian Airlines and stayed at the Dar es Salaam Serena Hotel, Serena Mivumo River Lodge and Bluebay Beach Resort. Highlights included an all-day safari in the Selous with a picnic lunch at Lake Tagalala and a galawa dhow race. Pictured enjoying a boat trip on the Rufiji River from Serena Mivumo River Lodge are, clockwise from the bottom left: Prity Meisuria, Alpha UK; Gavin Dixon, Freedom Destinations; Harriet Spicer, Hayes & Jarvis; Anthony Bowler, Virgin Holidays; Melissa Pereira, Infinity/Flight Centre; Jeanette Redshaw, Mahlatini;, Claire Roadley, Ethos Marketing/Serena Hotels; Abby Cherry, Trailfinders; Sophie Taylor, Planet Destinations/Bluebay; Shelley Phillips, Africa Collection; and Jenn Hillyar, Tropical Sky.
This Week
Cover Pictures: Main - Landmark Hotel
Inset - Darren Zabinski
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news poll finds half of Brits don't trust their partner to book a holiday
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notes from normanton
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agent bulletin
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puzzle bulletin
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bulletin briefing
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pix mix
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star awards preview
Sandy has been helping out at Idle Travel
a round-up of new offers & booking incentives for agents
play Su Doku for your chance to win a £50 M&S voucher
Global offers its top marketing 'quick wins' for your business
pictures from South African Tourism's agent fam trip
a special look at this year's Travel Bulletin Star Awards and your chance to vote!
www.travelbulletin.co.uk
Sunshine poll finds half of Brits wouldn't trust their partner to book a holiday ACCORDING TO new research by Sunshine.co.uk, many coupled up Brits are unwilling to leave their holiday bookings to their other halves, with women being the least trusting of their partner’s holiday booking abilities. The company conducted the research, which surveyed 1,855 men and women, after it noticed that the majority of holiday bookings were made by women. Of all the respondents taking part, 57% said that their last holiday abroad was a ‘couple’s holiday’ with their partner. When asked who had booked the holiday, the survey revealed that 81% of these trips had been booked by women while 9% had been arranged and booked by men. The remaining 10% said that they had been ‘booked jointly’ in terms of the organisation. According to the research, just over half of the people taking part (52%) said that they wouldn’t trust their partner to book their holiday. Of these participants, 66% were female respondents. When asked to identify what concerns they have with the idea of their partner taking charge of the holiday booking (and allowed to choose more than one answer from the list if needed), the top five answers were: ‘Think they’d pick an undesirable destination’ - 55%; ‘Wouldn’t trust them to book the standard of accommodation I’d like’ – 47%; ‘Think they’d spend too much on the break’ – 26%; ‘Think they wouldn’t spend enough on the break’ – 17%; and ‘I’d just prefer to be in charge’ – 9%. When asked if they had argued or had disagreements with their partner about their holiday booking, 42% of the relevant respondents said they had, with the most common reason (81%) saying it was over ‘Choosing the destination’.
Inflight mobile picks up pace with British travellers BRITISH TRAVELLERS are more likely to pick up their mobile phones inflight to send an email or browse the web than to make a call from the aircraft cabin, according to new research from AeroMobile. More than three quarters of those surveyed said they would use mobile-enabled internet access to check emails, browse the internet or update their Facebook or Twitter status at 30,000ft, while 55% would opt to send a text message and a quarter would use an instant messaging service. The research also found that fewer than a third (17%) would make a call inflight but almost half of respondents said that inflight mobile services would help them alleviate ● continues on next page
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the boredom of long hours spent in an aircraft cabin. Almost half of people questioned said they expect inflight mobile connectivity to become standard in the next few years and more than a third believe an airline with an inflight mobile service is cutting edge. The company's CEO, Kevin Rogers, said: “The results of the survey certainly reflect our experience at AeroMobile. In 2013 we saw close to an 80% increase in the number of travellers using their mobile phones in the aircraft cabin and data usage on our network went up ten-fold. We also saw a 50% increase in SMS traffic.” The AeroMobile network allows passengers to roam just as they would abroad and the company has live roaming agreements with more than 250 mobile phone operators worldwide. The service is available across 11 airlines including Virgin Atlantic, Etihad, Emirates and Lufthansa.
Ten-day Cape Town & Garden Route option from £1,849 from Travelsphere TRAVELSPHERE IS offering a ten-day Cape Town and the Garden Route tour which leads in at £1,849 per person. Highlights include a visit to the forest scenery of the Cango Valley and the winelands, as well as taking in the Garden Route and Knysna. Departures are between February and November 2015. Alternatively, a 17-day Ultimate South Africa option offers departures between February and November next year and leads in at £2,499. Highlights includes a visit to Table mountain, Knysna, the historic KwaZula-Natal Battlefields and Kruger National Park.
Clients can celebrate Norway's National Day with Taber Holidays this May true Norwegian style. With daily departures throughout May, guests can enjoy a six-night, self-guided trip from ‘Oslo to Bergen By Rail’ and be in Norway for May 17. Featuring the rail journey ‘Across the Roof of Norway’, the Bergen line crosses the Hardangervidda, Europe’s largest mountain plateau, and links east to west. Guests have the option to combine the journey with a stay in Balestrand and Voss, and decide where they wish to spend National Day. Prices lead in at £1,063 per person, based on two sharing, for the six-night Oslo to Bergen itinerary and include flights from Heathrow, transfers, the rail
National Day in Norway Inset - Nancy Bundt/Innovation Norway
AGENTS WHOSE customers are looking to witness a true sense of occasion should consider Norway next month as the country comes alive to celebrate ‘National Day’ on May 17. Colourful street parades take place in every village, town and city filled with marching bands and children waving banners and flags, as Norway unites to mark the day it became a fully independent nation. The national costume, or Bunad as it is known, is worn by young and old, and youngsters enjoy a day eating hot dogs and icecream. Taber Holidays is offering the chance to join in the festivities and celebrate in
journey and breakfast accommodation. Daily departures are available from the beginning of May. For more information call 01274-875199 or see www.taberhols.co.uk
Elite unveils annual conference details
LEANNE'S LUCK...Pictured is ‘Get Booking with Bourne' incentive winner, Leanne Lockley from Midcounties Co-operative, who chose a Kindle as her prize. The incentive meant that every agent who booked a Butlins, Haven or Warner Leisure Hotels break (minimum three nights) was entered into the operator's weekly draw to win £50 worth of Love2Shop vouchers, an iPod shuffle or a Kindle. The company is getting behind the VisitEngland GREAT campaign by offering an exclusive £20 discount for customers booking through their travel agent by April 30.
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THE ELITE Travel Group has announced that its annual travel conference will be held at The Melia Sevilla Hotel in Seville, Andalucia in Spain from September 26-29. Chief executive, Neil Basnett, said: "Having worked very closely with Tourism Andalucia for many years, we are delighted to be returning to Spain again in 2014. Seville is a beautiful city and the venues chosen for the conference are stunning. Our members will also be able to participate in a short tour of the region, kindly hosted by the Seville Tourism Division. Delegates will therefore return with fond memories of Andalucia and will be highly motivated after the business sessions being arranged during the conference itself." In addition to members of Elite being in attendance with their key tour operators and suppliers, all other independent travel agents and homeworkers will be extended an invitation to attend as the conference will continue to be branded as 'The Travel Conference for Independents...by Elite'. Basnett said: "As the topics discussed at our conference are relevant to all independent travel agents, attendance is not limited to members of our own consortium. If other agents therefore wish to attend a highly relevant conference in a lovely location, then they will be warmly welcomed."
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newsbulletin Cathay Pacific Airways announces Manchester-Hong Kong service CATHAY PACIFIC Airways has announced that it will launch a four-times-weekly service between Manchester and Hong Kong from December 8, subject to government approval. Tickets are now open for sale and the non-stop, direct service will be operated by Boeing 777-300ER aircraft featuring the carrier's new cabin products, including Business Class, Premium Economy Class and the new Economy Class seats. A state-of-the-art in-flight entertainment system will also be provided in all classes. Inbound flights will arrive in Manchester from Hong Kong at 06:20 every Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. Flights will depart from Manchester the same day, departing at 12:00 and will arrive in Hong Kong at 07:55 every Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday. The airline's general manager Europe, Angus Barclay, said: "We are committed to forging stronger links between the UK and China. We already currently operate five flights a day from Heathrow to Hong Kong and the addition of the Manchester route provides a real opportunity to help stimulate economic growth in the North West. We continue to see an ever-increasing demand for air travel to and from the Asia Pacific region for both business and leisure traffic." For more information or to book tickets see www.cathaypacific.co.uk Cathay Pacific’s Boeing 777
Oman gets set for four-day roadshow THE OMAN Ministry of Tourism will be hosting a four-day roadshow from this Monday (April 28) in Southampton at the Grand Harbour Hotel Southampton (www.grandharbourhotel.co.uk), followed by events on Tuesday April 29 at Brooks Hotel, Dublin (www.brookshotel.ie), Wednesday April 30 at MAC the Birmingham Performing Arts Complex (www.macarts.co.uk) and Thursday May 1 at St David’s Hotel & Spa Cardiff (www.thestdavidshotel.com). The short film screening and tourism souk roadshow will consist of private screenings displaying Oman’s natural unspoilt beauty and its wealth of history and culture. Omani travel experts will also be showcasing their products at a souk inspired workshop. Travel trade attendees will receive a comprehensive round-up of Oman’s offerings including the chance to indulge in a traditional Omani buffet, along with raffle prizes such as an iPad mini, £100 John Lewis vouchers and hotel stays. To confirm your attendance email Suzanne Halil at oman@representationplus.co.uk or call 020-8877 4505.
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GROMIT GROOPIES...In support of the current Visit England ‘Holidays at Home’ campaign, Gromit is currently residing at C The World in Easter Crompton. Agency director Carolyn Park won the huge model at an auction for the local hospital once it had completed the Gromit Trail around Bristol last year. Pictured showing their support for domestic breaks are, from the left: David Hinder from Superbreak with the agency's Nicola Woodland, Carolyn Park and Claire Rosser.
Family-friendly package from Serena Hotels SERENA HOTELS and Lodges has made Kenya more affordable for families with the introduction of a new offer, where two children under the age of 12 can stay free when sharing with their parents during the half-term holidays in May and October. The “bush and beach” package twins the recently refurbished Mara Serena Safari Lodge with the company's Serena Beach Resort and Spa, located on Shanzu beach on Kenya’s Swahili coast. Both properties welcome children who are encouraged to learn about local culture and nature during their stay. A one week safari and beach holiday for a family of four costs from £7,050 in May and October half-terms, saving £1,340 per family, travelling with Rainbow Tours. It includes flights, all prepaid taxes, transfers, three nights at the Mara Serena Safari Lodge with all meals, twice-daily game drives, National Park fees, airstrip transfers and breakfast at the hippo pool, three nights on Shanzu beach at Serena Beach Resort and Spa with dinner and breakfast. To book see www.rainbowtours.co.uk or call 020-7666 1250 and for more information visit www.serenahotels.com
SuperBreak unveils new rebrand SUPERBREAK HAS re-branded with a new logo, strapline, collateral and website look and feel following months of extensive research with staff, customers and agents. The new brand has been designed to reflect the operator’s move away from a directory style approach of hotel lists, evolving to become a full tour operator, packaging breaks, with a clear reason to travel. The company's sales director, Jane Atkins, said: “Over the last five years our product offering has changed dramatically with the introduction of transportation options such as Eurostar and flights, along with many local attractions both in the UK and overseas. We want to concentrate on selling packages and short break experiences and our new brand aims to reflect this.” For more information see www.superbreak.com/agents
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newsbulletin Tweets of the Week Who’s saying what on Twitter... @LegerHolidays How good is your geography knowledge? Match the pictures with the countries http://fb.me/6r0JlBtTe @richardbranson After another recordbreaking London Marathon, will you be signing up to join us at the start-line next year? http://virg.in/vmm @Expedia For all of April @Expedia is running a storybook travel contest with travel giveaways http://expd.us/WKlQQe #Expediachat @redseauk Do you have any good sand sculpture pictures from your Red Sea Holidays? http://fb.me/2ysVHyRKa @HolidayExtras How to travel with children (minus the tantrums!) http://buff.ly/1gbvlp7
Follow us on Twitter! http://twitter.com/ TravelBulletin
Save up to 30% with Fred. Olsen FRED. OLSEN Cruise Lines’ guests can benefit from significant savings if they make multiple cruise bookings in a single transaction, before May 7, on 2014/15 cruises of six nights’ duration or more, and less than 36 nights. If clients purchase two cruises as part of the line's 'The more you buy, the more you save’ campaign, they will save 20% off both cruises, and if they buy three or more cruises, they will save 30% off all cruises. For details visit www.fredolsencruises.com or call 0800-0355 242.
ON THE ROAD...Prestige Holidays has announced that its recent roadshows were a great success with 120 agents attending three events in Birmingham, Hertfordshire and Kent for evenings of informal networking followed by dinner and educational presentations. Pictured getting ready to greet agents at Penshurst Place in Kent are, from the left: Marissa Alvarado, Four Seasons Marrakech, Alicia Bugallo, Jardin Tropical Tenerife; Jose Aragao, Madeira Promotion Bureau; Kyriakos Pirillos, Stademos Hotels Cyprus; Concha Tejada, Princesa Yaiza Lanzarote; John Joinson, Prestige Holidays; Isabel Garcia, La Manga Club Spain; Suzanne Warren, Prestige Holidays; Georgina Grocott, Asimina Suites Cyprus; and Natalie Odenbreit, Kasbah Tamadot Morocco.
Spring savings on selected dates from City Cruises CITY CRUISES is offering savings across a number of sailings on selected dates until May 30. Included in the promotion is the company's latest sightseeing offering – the Thames Circular Cruise, which promises all of London’s most iconic sights from the river in 45 minutes. The deal offers up to three kids free sailings until May 30, with family tickets priced from £23.40. Kids also go free all day with a Family River Red Rover ticket priced from £32.40 until May 30. The hop-on-hop-off sightseeing tickets cover two adults and three kids for a day’s travel on the river, stopping at all piers between Westminster and Greenwich. Meanwhile, the company has introduced an ‘Ultimate Extreme Experience’ to celebrate the launch of BlueLightning, Thamesjet’s
second jet-powered RIB and sister to BlueThunder, launched in August last year. The one-day adventure allows customers to take to the river, air and land through booking with Thamesjet, the only military grade, jet engine boats available for commercial use on the Thames. It begins with a helicopter flight over central London before taking to the water for an exhilarating highspeed race down the Thames on one of Thamesjet’s jet-powered RIBs in London. Guests can then take a breather at Hispaniola, one of London’s best spots on the river and rest for lunch before an afternoon of clay pigeon shooting on the river and a dinner experience in the evening. Prices lead in at £384 per person. For further information or to book visit www.citycruises.com or call 020-7740 0400.
Gibraltar launch for summer 2014 & winter 2014/15 from Cosmos Holidays COSMOS HOLIDAYS has expanded its range of destinations to include Gibraltar featuring the new luxury floating hotel Sunborn Gibraltar set in the Ocean Village Marina against the backdrop of the iconic Gibraltar Rock. With a fully flexible flying programme, the destination will be featured in the summer 2014 and winter 2014/15 brochures. Up to six flights are available from Luton, up to four flights from Manchester and up to three flights from Birmingham on a weekly basis. Customers can select the duration that suits them best either as a package or flight-only through sister company Avro.
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To meet demand for city breaks and longer duration beach stays, deluxe properties on offer, as well as the Sunborn Gibraltar, include the four diamond rated Rock Hotel and the O’Callaghan Eliott. Opened last month, the Sunborn Gibraltar is a luxury floating hotel featuring 189 guests rooms and suites, 90% of which offer outdoor terraces or balconies and full-height wall windows to capture the Mediterranean views. The hotel features a spa and fitness centre, cocktail lounges, fine dining restaurants and a top floor sky restaurant with retractable roof and panoramic views. Gibraltar is in addition to the existing
choice of short breaks available in the operator's mainstream programme including Barcelona, Malaga, Mallorca, Dubrovnik, Palma, Venice, Verona, Rome, Algarve, Ibiza, Madeira and Marrakech. A three-night stay at the four diamond rated Rock Gibraltar Hotel departing Luton on October 22 costs from £375 per person based on a twin sea view room. It includes flights and breakfast accommodation. A three-night stay at the five diamond rated Sunborn Gibraltar departing Luton on October 3 costs from £559 based on a twin room and includes flights and breakfast accommodation. For more information see www.cosmos.co.uk
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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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newsbulletin Rotana celebrates milestone with opening of first Oman property
Notes from . . . n o t n a m r o N KEEP HELPING out at Idle Travel and am always amazed how nice and busy they are. I really do think it is nice in the portacabin and customers love it when they come in – still got lots of brochures on show and lots of offers on the walls. I can see it getting even busier as there is a gym being built next door and there is a pet store coming next week so they’ll be lots more people coming into the car park and not just for Morrisons. Getting on very well with the Greek Cat Welfare Society (GCWS) and still keep in touch with some people that I met at the Kaissa Hotel & Apts in Gouves, Crete last year, who have been raising money for the cats in Gouves that were at the apts. Everyone took it upon themselves to feed them and when they left they made sure someone else would continue. Now what we want to do (and the GCWS is working hard to speak to the Mayor and officials in Gouves & Crete) is to get permission to neuter and spay some cats. The good news is that GCWS have promised to put £3,000 on one side for the Gouves/Crete cats, so hopefully if they can be caught in between having kittens we can start to make a difference – one small step etc. Fingers crossed I can go out there in June and I want to make sure a few places will also have the GCWS donation boxes in their restaurants etc. I really still cannot believe that the Malaysian Airlines’ plane has not been found properly – in this day and age of technology it just doesn’t make sense – perhaps it is another Bermuda Triangle! I only have half a table left for the Yorkshire Travel Ball on Thurs 17th July at the Village Hotel, junc 28 M62 – South Leeds – I can’t believe how well it is going – I am looking forward to some tour operators being generous and giving some great raffle prizes! ‘Don’t ruin a good day by thinking about a bad yesterday – let it go’ and ‘What we learn with pleasure we never forget’.
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Salalah Rotana Resort
MOVERS ● THE FOREIGN Airlines Association UK (FAA) has announced
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To respond to any of Sandy’s comments email jill. sayles@travelbulletin.co.uk
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ROTANA HAS opened its first property in Oman, Salalah Rotana Resort, which is company’s 50th hotel and represents the half-way mark in the hospitality group’s plans for 100 hotels by 2020. Set against a backdrop of lush vegetation, rolling mountains, golden sands and crystal blue waters, Salalah Rotana Resort offers a relaxed beach atmosphere where guests can escape the hustle and bustle of day to day life. Located on the white sands of Salalah’s beachfront with views overlooking the Arabian Ocean, the five-star property offers 400 rooms and suites, each furnished with modern amenities and conveniences. On-site facilities include a swimming pool, four dining outlets, a health and fitness centre and a kids’ club. Additional watersports activities, including jet-skiing, kayaking and sailing, are also available for guests. For further information visit www.rotana.com
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that Colin Stewart, UK general manager, Air Europa, will take over as its new chairman, having served as vice chairman since 2013. TRAFALGAR AND Insight Vacations have announced dedicated head of sales roles for the UK & Ireland. Julie Brooker has been appointed to the role for Trafalgar UK & Ireland and Paul Melinis, formerly head of sales for 1STS, will move to become head of sales for Insight Vacations. COMTEC HAS appointed Mike Russell as CEO, effective from the end of May. MSC CRUISES has appointed Janet Parton as head of sales for the UK and Ireland. SKÅL LONDON and Skål UK have voted in two new presidents to attract younger people into the tourist industry and to promote the benefits of belonging to the global network of tourism professionals. Alison Partridge has been appointed UK president and Paul Hoskins joins as London president. JUSTIN PEARSON has been appointed head of sales and marketing at The Cruise Portfolio. DUKES ST JAMES London has appointed Peter van PeborghGooch as director of sales and marketing. THE GAINSBOROUGH Bath Spa, which opens this summer, has appointed Martin Clubbe as general manager.
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agentbulletin Booking incentives ●
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LUFTHANSA GROUP is offering agents the chance to win a night out for their agency, along with a range of other prizes including an iPad mini, Dr. Dre Headphones and £50 in John Lewis vouchers. For a chance to win, agents need to book any LH, OS, SN or LX flight by April 30. The promotion is hosted on the company's website dedicated to ztrade 'eXperts' at www.lufthansaexperts.com, which also features the latest news, competitions and booking support. TITAN TRAVEL is promoting its Eggstravaganza competition which offers the top prize of an iPad. Agents making a booking by April 30 for departures before December 31 will be entered into the prize draw. Other prizes include a £100 Love2Shop voucher, a £50 Love2Shop voucher and a Thorntons Easter egg. The company is also running its Saga cruise incentive which gives
Fancy a fam?
ship with Vietnam TRAVEL INDOCHINA, in partner to showcase its afam meg a ning Airlines, is run core region of unique style of travel across its four different and es Indochina. Three itinerari nity for agents ortu opp the with dates are available, dates in May to take a friend. Running over four itineraries ay and June, the ten-, 11- and 12-d leader and tour a , tion include flights, accommoda person with per 5 £89 at in lead local guides. Prices the companion fare from £995. For more information visit 01865-268944. www.travelindochina.co.uk or call
It’s in the stars… What’s in store for Taurus? SCHEDULES ARE being interrupted lately and tempers will fly so take a step back and be cautious when dealing with any issues - particularly at work. Your saviours will be your family and friends, so turn to them in times of need or for advice. Towards the end of the month you realise that your own needs and goals become a priority - and rightly so. Lucky number: 24
agents a £15 Love2Shop voucher for each passenger booked. Agents also receive a £10 Love2Shop voucher and a bag of mini eggs for every passenger booked. ●
AGENTS MAKING a booking on Royal Caribbean International's Anthem of the Seas by April 30 will be entered into a draw to win prizes such as Jamie’s Italian vouchers and tickets to Jamie Oliver’s Big Feastival in Somerset. For more information see www.cruisingpower.co.uk
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TO CELEBRATE the release of its latest trade only booking engine, Bookabed is giving away £100 per day until May 15. Every booking made will be automatically entered into the voucher incentive draw and one winner per day will be announced. There is no minimum stay or value restrictions applicable.
Agent offers AQUA HOSPITALITY is offering exclusive fam rates in Hawaii with prices from US$69 per night. The offer is valid for travel until December 23 and is based on a maximum three-night stay. For details see www.aquatravelagents.com COMPAGNIE DU Ponant has launched a new ‘5+5 promotion’ offering travel agents an additional 5% commission on top of its existing average commission of 10% - with clients receiving a 5% discount off the best available price in the online booking system. The offer applies on 20 selected cruises departing between June and December on a variety of itineraries and is valid for bookings made until April 30. Agents should use discount code DIS5+5 when booking. AS PART of its Wallace & Gromit inspired domestic holiday campaign, VisitEngland is giving away 100 pairs of Odeon cinema tickets to agents who submit images of themselves in the style of a Wallace & Gromit holiday snap. Agents should submit their pictures by May 30 by emailing traveltrade@visitengland.com with the subject 'Great Cinema Ticket Giveaway'. Entries must include your full name, job title, agency name, postal address and phone number. Image files should be labelled and in JPEG format, under 2MB. For details on the offer see www.yourgreatadventure.co.uk/cinema and to view the gallery of postcards see www.yourgreatadventure.co.uk/gallery
Lucky day: Monday
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newsbulletin Haven's Greedy the Gorilla invites kids to join June birthday celebrations FAMILIES CAN join in the celebrations this June as Greedy the gorilla celebrates his birthday at all 35 Haven parks across the UK. From June 2-6, kids can join Greedy and his best friends - Anxious the Elephant, Bradley the Bear, DJ Ned, Polly and Rory the Tiger, who are hanging the bunting and throwing a huge birthday celebration. The party promises traditional party games such as pass the parcel, party bags, party dances, plus the chance for children to get a photo taken with their favourite characters. Throughout the weekend, families can also take advantage of a range of sports activities including fencing, golf and archery coaching, along with crazy golf, go-karts, adventure playgrounds, swimming pools and SplashZones. Prices for the birthday break start at £115 for the whole family, based on a family of up to six sharing a twobedroom standard caravan for four nights at The Orchards, Essex from June 2. Plus, in support of Visit England’s Holiday at Home campaign featuring Wallace & Gromit, agents can offer an exclusive £20 discount to their clients when they book before April 30. For more information see www.bourneleisuresales.co.uk or call 0871-230 1919.
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ON THE RIGHT TRACK...Osprey Holidays took ten Scottish travel agents to see the Grand National at Aintree, travelling on the newly branded Venice Simplon Orient-Express/Belmond Northern Belle train to Liverpool. Pictured relaxing in style are, from the left: Alison Synott, Hynds Travel; Emma Cuterson, Alba Travel; Juliet Gardner, Kenneth Macleod Travel; and Kath Lightbody from Border Global Travel.
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HOSEASONS HAS extended its Pets Go Free campaign until April 30. The promotion allows customers to take their pets for free to a choice of pet-friendly lodge and park locations, and boats across the UK for all bookings confirmed before January 3, 2015. EUROSTAR HAS unveiled the first phase of a new ticket office in St Pancras International station, as part of an extensive programme of station improvements to enhance the passenger experience. The second phase of the upgrade, a new Business Premier ticket office and an area for self-service ticket machines will open before the end of next month. THE OWNERS of www.sunshine.co.uk, which recently made the move to be a completely independent online travel agency, have now obtained www.realholidayreports.com COMPASS HOLIDAYS is celebrating National Walking Month in May by offering 10% off the Cotswold Village Tour; a self-guided walking break that highlights the best of the Cotswolds. Discounted prices start from £474 per person, based on two sharing. agents using the code MAYWALK1 will be able to redeem the discount for clients. See www.compass-holidays.com or call 01242-250642. LEEDS BRADFORD Airport has launched an application which shares live flight information via Twitter. Users should first follow at @LBIAirport then send a DM (Direct Message) beginning with the word ‘flight’ followed by the flight number e.g. ‘Flight BA1345’. Confirmation of receipt of request for flight information is immediately sent back to the user and flight updates are then automatically shared with the user until the aircraft has either taken off (departures) or landed (arrivals). LUXPERIENCE, THE Sydney-based business exchange for the global luxury and experiential travel trade (August 31 to September 3), has announced its destination partnership with Dubai Tourism. As a destination partner for Luxperience, Dubai Tourism will have an increased presence at the event highlighting the destination's luxury product and unique experiences.
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S03 TB2504 2014 News 2_Layout 1 4/23/2014 3:34 PM Page 11
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: 016
A Rave I
A➠
B➠ This airline shares its name with this actress
C➠
Hen Pop Mnh
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:
The capital of Cambodia
Where Am I?
competition@travelbulletin.co.uk Closing date for entries is Thursday, May 1st. Solution and new puzzle will appear next week. The winner for 11th April is Lorraine Sharp, S&N Pickford Ltd. April 11 Solution: A=3 B=2 C=5 D=4
Beaten South American semi-finalist in the 2010 World Cup.
Crossword Fill in the crossword to reveal the mystery location highlighted by the green squares. Across 1. Tour operator specialising in Scandinavia (5)
Down 1. Aquatic sportsman, Goes Global on ITV (3,5)
4. American actor Kevin, still mobile with UK ads (5)
2. Bujumbura is the capital (7)
6. Caribbean island with a French flavour (10)
3. Get on the right track with this York - based tour operator, Great ___ Journeys (4)
8. Flows through Tuscany (4)
4. Capital of Lebanon (6)
9. P&O cruise ship (6)
5. Corfu International airport code (3)
12. UAE flag carrier (6)
7. Italian holiday isle (8)
13. Replica galleon docked in London, Golden ___ (4)
10. South American river (7)
15. Capital of Barbados (10)
14. Welsh emblem, sounds like one of their five a day (4)
17. The highest mountain in the British Isles, Ben ___ (5)
11. Dr Who's famous Time Machine (6)
16. Ecclesiastical BBC sitcom (3)
Number: 016
18. Currency of Sweden (5)
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For the solution to the Crossword, Where Am I? and Travagrams, please see page 30 April 25 2014
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bulletinbriefing
Industry Insight by... Darren Zabinski, head of marketing at The Global Travel Group offers top marketing 'quick wins' for your business UT THROUGH the clutter. Separate the wheat from the chaff. Make your voice heard above the crowd. We marketers are a funny bunch in that we have a number of aphorisms we like to use when we talk about helping a brand to stand out from the competition. I’m often asked by agents how they can go about doing this and in turn, generate some buzz around their brand. I often offer up the phrase “Out of sight, out of mind”. In danger of annoying them too much with frivolous sayings, I quickly add that in other words, if your customers and potential customers don’t know you are there, or what you do, then how can you possibly sell your product to them? Having a well-thought out and integrated multi-channel marketing strategy is quite often the tipping point as to whether a business sinks or swims. Below are my top five marketing 'quick wins' to help promote your business and make sure you float rather than flounder.
C
Social media – From expanding ways of communicating with potential clients to driving new revenue streams, social media is rapidly changing the dynamics of the travel industry. With the global expansion of Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and others, more and more travel agents are jumping on the social media bandwagon. However, time and time again I’m approached by agents afraid to take the plunge for fear of not being able to devote their time fully in the social media sphere. My advice is to take baby steps. You don’t have to use all the social media platforms out there. Try two or three that you think will work for your business and spend 15-30 minutes a day managing the feeds. Social media will keep your customers updated with your company and gives you an opportunity to interact with followers and most importantly, form strong relationships. And if you’re a Global agent don’t be afraid to ask us for some help. That’s why we’re here.
Networking – Our recent conference gave us plenty of insight into the importance of networking and persistence. We utilised the experience of some fantastic speakers including Lara Morgan, who for me stood out as a very determined businesswoman and built up a successful multi-million pound business because of it. It certainly wasn’t due to luck, nor was it due to her sitting back and hoping the sales rolled in. She was constantly networking, knocking on doors, demanding that someone bought her fantastic products. The constant bombardment of advertisements, emails, status updates and special offers creates a cluttered message to prospects whereas personal relationships enable you and your organisation to stand out from the crowd.
Online lead generation tools – There are some very simple tools out there that can help you create competition pages, newsletter subscriptions, video blogs and email opt-ins all through your Facebook page. You can also use Facebook Ads to increase brand awareness, or create Facebook marketing strategies to help you attract a greater following. Again, this is something that Global Travel Group members can benefit from. Remember, your customer database is your most valuable asset and your goal should always be to retain your existing customers, because getting a NEW customer to buy from your company is one of the hardest parts of running a business.
Responsive websites – With 30% of web users now using their mobile devices, including tablets to browse online, the importance of having a fully responsive mobile website is absolutely critical if your brand is going to stay relevant. Despite the growing evidence that the smartphone reigns supreme, many agents still find themselves struggling to develop effective, user-friendly mobile sites and apps. Making sure your website is mobile enabled, accessible and user-friendly across all platforms is the critical first step. Once this has been undertaken, only then can you begin to look at the infinite amount of ways to improve the customer experience and potentially increase your revenue in the process.
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The tools to succeed – Finally and perhaps most importantly, The Global Travel Group has and continues to make a number of improvements to its in-house marketing offering and agents ought to utilise each and every tool that is available to them. To underscore our commitment to providing agents with the very best support, over the next couple of months we’re going to be rolling out a new internal shop for agents, providing them with a full suite of services including PPC management, SEO consultancy and web design. We’re also planning on introducing an area on our intranet where agents can order bespoke and heavily subsidised material such as posters, window cards, direct mailers and business cards for agencies that have little experience in marketing their business.
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Experience 5,000 years of history on a Nile river cruise
Join us on a voyage of discovery as we visit the majestic ancient monuments that line the banks of the Nile from Luxor to Aswan, including the World Heritage Sites of the Valley of the Kings, Karnak, Kom Ombo, Philae and an optional excursion to Abu Simbel . Enjoy your cruise in style with scheduled Egyptair flights and luxurious accommodation aboard the five star MS Grand Rose. 10 free excursions
Your price includes
Luxor Temple y
Return flights with Egyptair
Karnak Temple y
In-flight meals
Kom Ombo Temple y
Personal in-flight entertainment
Philae Temple y
46kg pp luggage allowance
Aswan High Dam y
VIP airport lounge*
Unfinished Obelisk y
Resort transfers
Colossi of Memnon y
10 fully-guided excursions
Queen Hatshepsut’s Temple y
All meals on board
Medinet Habu y
Local alcoholic and soft drinks
Valley of the Kings y
Late check out cabin
7 night Nile cruise from only
7 night Cruise & Stay add-on from
£599pp
£110pp
Save
Low deposit Just
£200 this summer
º
£75pp
The Egyptian Experts Call today on 0845 072 2477 Visit redseaholidays.co.uk/agent ABTA No.Y2507
Subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time. Based on minimum 2 adults sharing. Discount is per booking, not per passenger and applies on holidays booked by 31/03/2014 and departing 01/05-31/10/2014. Abu Simbel excursion: payable locally. ºCruise & stay packages: airline may vary.*UK airport only. Other conditions apply; see brochure for details. ATOL protected 9749. ® Red Sea Holidays logo is a registered trade mark of Red Sea Holidays UK Ltd. © 2014.
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FOR TRAVEL IN 2014
BE OUR GUEST FOR LONGER AND EXPERIENCE
Introducing Disney FastPass+* service For the first time ever, your customers will have the power to reserve access to some must-do experiences with Disney FastPass+ service, including selected attractions, shows, parades, Disney Character experiences and more — before they even leave home. And even better? It’s included in Theme Park admission.
Ticket offer for guests travelling in 2014! They’ll get 9 Disney Park days for the price of 7 when they book by 30 June for arrivals throughout the rest of 2014.
GREAT OFFER!
For more on Disney FastPass+ and a full list of participating partners, visit
disneytravelagents.co.uk Full terms and conditions apply to offer — see disneytravelagents.co.uk for details. *Valid Theme Park admission and online registration required. Disney FastPass+ attractions and entertainment experiences, the number of selections that can be made and available arrival windows are limited. ©Disney.
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FOR TRAVEL IN 2015
FREE Disney Dining* is back, or enjoy NEW FREE breakfast!* FREE DISNEY DINING FOR CUSTOMERS STAYING AT A DISNEY MODERATE, DELUXE OR DELUXE VILLA RESORT Book 24 Apr–4 Nov 2014, for arrivals on selected dates from 1 Jan–30 Nov 2015**, and everyone in the party dines for FREE for the entire stay.
New!
FREE BREAKFAST FOR CUSTOMERS STAYING AT A DISNEY VALUE RESORT†† Book 24 Apr–10 Jul 2014, for arrivals 1 Jan–1 Nov 2015**, and your customers will enjoy free breakfast, every day of their stay.
BOTH OFFERS COMBINABLE WITH
14 DISNEY7 PARK DAYS FOR THE PRICE OF
PLUS delicious prizes for you! To celebrate the return of FREE Disney Dining and the new FREE Breakfast offer, we have a fantastic incentive from 24 April–24 May 2014. You can win some amazing prizes, including: • Fortnum & Mason hampers • Chef Mickey sets • Holiday for four to Walt Disney World Resort
Find out all the details now at
disneytravelagents.co.uk *Terms and conditions apply — see disneytravelagents.co.uk for details. **Excludes arrivals 25 Mar–11 Apr 2015. ††Excludes Disney’s Art of Animation Resort. ©Disney.
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South African Specialists win the chance to visit South Africa with South African Tourism South African Tourism recently ran a competition for agents to complete the new SA Specialist Training Program, 4 lucky winners were drawn from all those that completed the course. These 4 lucky winners joined 4 other agents and operators on a trip that included Cape Town, Winelands, Garden Route and Shamwari Private Game Reserve. Below and opposite you'll see details of the partners who helped with the trip plus pictures of agents enjoying their fantastic tour around this wonderful destination!
Garden Route Group - from Left to right: Nina Farrimond - South African Tourism, Joe Bradley - Destinology, Hilary Field - Bath Travel, Avril Palour - The Internet Traveller, Dan Saunders - Encounters Travel, Jayne Bailey - Bond Travel, Chris Newnham - STA, Theo Porter - Round the World Experts, Josie Leggan - Barrhead Travel
Shamwari Group - from Left to right: Joe Bradley - Destinology, Dan Saunders - Encounters Travel, Hilary Field - Bath Travel, Josie Leggan - Barrhead Travel, Theo Porter - Round the World Experts, Avril Palour - The Internet Traveller, Jayne Bailey - Bond Travel, Chris Newnham - STA, Nina Farrimond - South African Tourism
South African Tourism would like to thank the following partners for supporting the South African Specialist FAM trip:
For more information on SA Specialist please visit - www.saspecialist.southafrica.net/za/en
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Wine tasting at Simonsig Wine Estate - Left to right: Jayne Bailey - Bond Travel, Hilary Field - Bath Travel, Chris Newnham - STA
Shamwari Private Game Reserve game drive - Left to right: Hilary Field Bath Travel, Avril Palour - The Internet Traveller, Theo Porter - Round the World Experts, Jayne Bailey - Bond Travel, Josie Leggan - Barrhead Travel Shamwari Private Game Reserve game drive.
Face Adrenalin Bungy - Left to right: Chris Newnham - STA, Theo Porter - Round the World Experts, Dan Saunders - Encounters Travel
Gondwana Game Reserve Sundowners - Left to right: Theo Porter - Round the World Experts, Chris Newnham - STA, Joe Bradley - Destinology, Dan Saunders - Encounters Travel, Hilary Field - Bath Travel, Josie Leggan - Barrhead Travel, Avril Palour - The Internet Traveller, Jayne Bailey - Bond Travel Taken at Shamwari Private Game Reserve
Gold Restaurant in Cape Town, welcome dinner courtesy of Cape Town Tourism: Theo Porter - Round the World Experts
Robben Island Tour - Left to right: Dan Saunders - Encounters Travel, Theo Porter - Round the World Experts Elephant - Taken at Shamwari Private Game Reserve
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S05 TB2504 2014 Awards Preview Intro_Layout 1 4/23/2014 3:42 PM Page 19
Who wins? You decide!
The 2013 Star Award winners HE COUNTDOWN has officially begun to Travel Bulletin's 18th annual Star Awards which takes place at the five-star Landmark Hotel in London on Monday September 8. But who will be the winners of the 2014 Star Awards? Well, that's up to you - it's your vote that counts. The only question remains: who will be worthy? In this special Awards Preview issue, you'll discover how you can play a crucial role in selecting the 2014 winners from a total of 35 supplier categories, which are divided into five industry sectors - Smooth Operators, Land Lords, High Fliers, Sea Captains and our new category for this year - Dream Destinations. All the Star Awards in our Dream Destinations sector are new and include Star Europe Tourist Office, Star Middle East Tourist Office, Star
T
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Australasia Tourist Office, Star South America Tourist Office, Star North America Tourist Office, Star Caribbean Tourist Office, Star Africa Tourist Office and Star Asia Tourist Office. These have been introduced on the back of demand from both suppliers and agents and all the categories can be found on page 29 on the voting form. Other ways to vote include online at www.travelbulletin.co.uk/awards, plus a voting form will also be included in each issue of Travel Bulletin next month - but be quick - voting ends on June 6 - which gives you just six weeks to make your mind up. And there's another reason to cast your vote - every entry will be entered into a prize draw to win a selection of prizes courtesy of Jetset. These include a Cath Kidston wheeled cabin suitcase, a Cath Kidston overnight
travel bag and a giant bag filled to the brim with chocolate or beer (the winner decides!). The glittering Star Awards evening itself will comprise of a drinks reception, dinner and an awards presentation, followed by some superb entertainment you wouldn't want to miss. Tickets are now on sale, along with sponsorship opportunities, and can be booked online at www.travebulletin.co.uk To offer a helping hand in casting your vote, turn over to view our flow chart for help on getting started. Over the following pages we also offer some advice on the factors that you might like to take into consideration when deciding on which suppliers deserve to win one of our coveted awards, along with agents' comments on how they choose who to vote for. So, let's get the thinking caps on....
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Do you know who to vote for in Tra NO Are you likely to vote? NO
YES
Turn to page 27 to read ‘Why you should care’ and support your suppliers!
You’ve got the right attitude! Do you need some inspiration?
NO
YES Turn to page 22 to read our ‘Factors to consider when voting’. Throughout the following pages you can also read quotes from agents on how and why they vote!
You now have 6 weeks to make your decision - you can fill in the voting form on page 29 or vote online at www.travelbulletin.co.uk/awards
"When we vote it’s a travel agent’s way of saying 'well done' and 'thank you' to the operators that have supported us all year. It shows we appreciate their hard work - and efforts may not just be for service, but for training events, fam trips, help with advertising campaigns and generally thanking them for recognising how important the travel agent is to their growth." Kate Harris, Inspired Travel 20
April 25 2014
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Travel Bulletin’s Star Awards 2014? YES Have you decided on all your nominations for all 35 supplier categories?
YES NO
Well done on making your decision! You can now turn to page 29 to complete the voting process!
Do you need extra help in deciding who to vote for?
YES Read our ‘Factors to consider when voting’ on page 22 to help make your selection
www.travelbulletin.co.uk
NO You only have 6 weeks left to vote - You can vote on page 29 or complete the voting form online at www.travelbulletin.co.uk
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Please vote for Titan as your...
Factors to consider when voting
Star Escorted Tour Operator In the Travel Bulletin Star Awards 2014
OME OF you will know exactly who to vote for in each of the 35 supplier categories, and some will only know a handful of companies that they'd like to see pick up an award. For those of you who fall into the latter category, and for newcomers to the industry, we've outlined some factors that you might like to consider when making a vote...
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To vote please visit www.travelbulletin.co.uk
www.travelbulletin.co.uk
S05 TB2504 2014 Awards Preview Intro_Layout 1 4/23/2014 3:42 PM Page 23
Value for money and quality
Help and support
As we know, value for money isn't solely based on price, so voting for suppliers that offer the cheapest holidays is not what it's about. Think about what is being offered for the price - does the supplier go out of their way to solve an issue? Do they offer extra services/little touches to make clients' holidays special? What about feedback from clients following their holiday - is it positive and what do your clients say about the quality of the product and the value it offers?
With any hiccups a booking might throw up, how does the company respond in solving problems? On the whole, are they good at being flexible and helping with suggestions? Are they creative in coming up with new ideas for your clients? Does the company have on-the-road reps who visit agents to offer updates on new products and services? Have you built up good relationships with any reps and who stands out in your opinion?
Reputation and reliability
On the back of help and support, what training is offered by the company? Do they attend events or run their own roadshows? If you've attended any of Travel Bulletin's Showcase events, what suppliers have you built up a good working relationship with? Does the company keep you up to speed on their latest news/developments? Do they send out newsletters to keep you on top of the latest developments? What about online training and fam trips? Which companies offer the best training that suits your needs?
How easy does the supplier make it for you to work with them? Do they offer a dedicated agent telephone number, email address or website? When they say they will come back to you on something - do they? And how quickly? Are they reliable? Do they under-promise and over-deliver? Is the supplier keen to help and accommodate you and your clients? How flexible are they in accommodating both yours and your clients' needs?
What type of training is provided?
An easy booking process
Boosting commission
Is it easy to book a holiday for your clients - both online and over the phone? Does the company answer promptly or are you kept waiting or have to contend with automated voice messages? Is there a free-phone number? Do you get to speak to a real person and how easy is it for you to create new relationships with people who work for the company?
What type of commission does the supplier offer? Do they offer incentives to boost your earning potential? Do they reward best-selling agents with prizes and fam trip places? Does the company come up with new ways to help agents sell? Are you offered any exclusive trade deals - both for yourself and your clients? What about marketing materials - is this easily available and does it offer the right impact on clients?
HANDS UP FOR HURTIGRUTEN... AS STAR SPECIALIST CRUISE COMPANY! Hurtigruten are delighted to have been shortlisted for a third Travel Bulletin Star Award! And we’re really hoping our amazing selection of voyages in search of the Northern Lights in Norway, Midnight Sun Cruises above the Arctic Circle and host of exciting expedition sailings to Antarctica, Spitsbergen, Greenland and Iceland, will be enough to secure another of these prestigious awards. So please vote for us again as Star Specialist Cruise Company and thank you for all your support!
Follow us @hurtiagents
T: 020 8846 2666 E: uk.agency.sales@hurtigruten.com W: www.hurtigruten.co.uk/agents
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A different kind of cruise April 25 2014
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ENCORE, ENCORE!...John Wales (right) from Encore gets in the mood with the cast of STOMP.
the reception drinks are , from DRINK DATE…Catching up at ay Journeys; Jeanette Ratcliffe , the left: Tony Byrne , Great Railw , South African Tourism ; Travel Bulletin ; Nina Farrimond and Wayne Darrock , JTA.
READY, STEADY, EAT...Pict ured ready to enjoy the scrumptious three-course dinner are, from the left: Alex (left) from se ee cL Fa M a irf m or d, Em In ter … na AT tional Travel ; Joseph Grim WE’LL DRINK TO TH al iv ley rn , Riviera Travel ; Paula Campbell, Jet with Iain Baillie from Ca set ; Darren Mussell, Rivier Attraction World hooks up a Travel ; and Sue Mercer, As ord, Titan. hdown Travel. Cruise Lines and Louise Sw
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April 25 2014
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S06 TB2504 2014 Awards Preview 2_Layout 1 4/23/2014 3:45 PM Page 25
AND STARRY EYED! Yes, it’s that time of year again and we’re seeing stars! So please vote for us as Star Add-Ons Operator at this years Travel Bulletin Star Awards, and give us yet another starring role!
S06 TB2504 2014 Awards Preview 2_Layout 1 4/23/2014 3:45 PM Page 26
"My thoughts are that you should vote to ensure great supporting companies are recognised. In our industry today, too many suppliers want to cut us out making survival more and more difficult. This therefore gives us chance to recognise and reward those still supporting us. Good service is always paramount in my choices when voting. Value for money clearly plays a part but we must remember cheapest is not always best. An evening in the company of such suppliers and like-minded agents always portrays this industry for what it is - fun (most of the time!)" Pauline Dougherty, Travel Counsellors
VOTE “TEAM” AFFORDABLE FOR
STAR CAR RENTAL COMPANY FOR 2014 TRAVEL BULLETIN AWARDS
Vote for us because: We are dedicated to the trade with 24/7 UK call centre assistance & sales team support We offer fully inclusive prices with ‘no hidden extras’ We have an easy 3 steps online booking system We offer a choice of over 500 suppliers in over 15,000 worldwide locations
T: 0845 9000 420 | www.affordablecarhire.com
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Why you should care OU'VE HEARD of care in the community but what about care in the travel industry? There is a huge range of suppliers that appreciate the support of travel agents in helping their businesses to grow and be a success. In return, these companies show great support to agents, ranging from offering spot-on customer service and training, to holidays tailored to your clients. Suppliers often go one step further in encouraging your support including personalised service (think of the reps on the road) to agent booking
Y
incentives and offers, which you read about each week in our Agent Bulletin. So, just as you rely on suppliers to provide the best service to you, they too rely on you for feedback on how well they are performing, what their clients are looking for and how they can improve their products and services. As we all know, there are some industry suppliers who offer little in the way of agent support, and factors such as direct advertising to consumers and undercutting agents have been agents’ bugbear for years.
We don't need any more companies 'going above our heads' so let's stick together and show support for those companies who value agents' valuable input. By voting, you have the power to decide which suppliers have helped support you in your day-to-day working life. It’s about ‘give and take’ and suppliers are counting on you to show your appreciation for their efforts. This is your chance to pay something back and make a difference!
Vote Birmingham Airport for 'Star UK Airport'
S07 TB2504 2014 Awards Preview 3_Layout 1 4/23/2014 4:31 PM Page 28
Travel Agents’ Voting Form Now the time has come for you to decide which companies deserve to win our highly coveted awards by naming your favourite industry suppliers! (see overleaf) All completed voting forms will be placed into a free prize draw and you will have the chance of winning one of the following prizes donated by:
1 st Prize
Cath Kidston wheeled cabin suitcase
TOURS, FLIGHTS & TAILOR-MADE HOLIDAYS
2nd %*% :06 ,/08
Prize
H O L I D AY S The home of Mediterranean holidays
Cath Kidston overnight travel bag.
Cyplon Holidays were, once again, voted by Agents Top Operator to the Mediterranean in 2013
3rd
Prize
Star Award
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A giant bag filled to the brim with chocolate or beer
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April 25 2014
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S07 TB2504 2014 Awards Preview 3_Layout 1 4/23/2014 3:51 PM Page 29
VOTING FORM 2014 Name the supplier you consider to be the BEST in the following Star Awards categories:
DREAM DESTINATIONS
LANDLORDS
Star Mediterranean Specialist Operator
Star Worldwide Theme Park Or Attraction
Star Escorted Tours Operator
Star European Theme Park Or Attraction
Star Luxury Operator
Star Rail Operator
Star Adventure/Activity Holidays Operator
Star Europe Tourist Office
Star Middle East Tourist Office
Star Australasia Tourist Office
Star South America Tourist Office
Star North America Tourist Office Office
Star Car Rental Company
Star Accommodation-Only Provider
Star Caribbean Tourist Office Office
Star Worldwide Hotel Chain
Star Africa Tourist Office Office
Star Technology Supplier
Star Asia Tourist Office Office
SEA CAPTAINS
Star Holiday Add-Ons Operator
Star Tour Operator For Incentives & Fam Trips
Star Operator For Incentives & Fam Trips
Star Operator For Agent Training online)Office
SMOOTH OPERATORS
Star Family Cruise Company Company
Star Asia Specialist Operator
Star River Cruise Company Company
Star Africa Specialist Operator
HIGH FLIERS Star Business Airline
Star Low Cost Airline
Star Charter Seat-Only Operator
Star Luxury Cruise Company Star Americas Specialist Operator Star Specialist Cruise Company Company
Star Scheduled Flight Consolidator Star European Specialist Operator Star UK Airport
Please post or scan and email this form to us by Friday June 6th 2014. Post to Travel Bulletin, University House, 11-13 Lower Grosvenor Place, London SW1W 0EX or email to jeanette@travelbulletin.co.uk. You can also vote online at www.travelbulletin.co.uk/awards/the-voting. Name:................................................................................................................ Company: .......................................................................................................... Address: .......................................................................................................... .............................................................................................................................. .............................................................................................................................. www.travelbulletin.co.uk
Job Title:.......................................................................................................... Email: ................................................................................................................ Tel: ...................................................................................................................... ABTA No: ........................................................................................................ Number............................................................................................................ April 25 2014
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We asked our staff the following question this week: If you could name a new London underground line, what would you call it? Publisher: Jeanette Ratcliffe jeanette.ratcliffe@travelbulletin.co.uk Editor: Lauretta Wright lauretta.wright@travelbulletin.co.uk The Wright Line
Assistant Editor: Jill Sayles jill.sayles@travelbulletin.co.uk Logan’s Run
Contributing Editor: Paul Scudamore post@travelbulletin.co.uk Nonstoptyd (nonstoptoyourdestination)
Sales Director: Simon Eddolls simon.eddolls@travelbulletin.co.uk The I.K.Brunel Line
Advertisement Manager: Tim Podger tim.podger@travelbulletin.co.uk
Wrapping up... RAVEL BULLETIN’S 18th annual Travel Bulletin Star Awards give travel agents the opportunity to select their own winners; there’s no shortlist devised prior to the awards ceremony and there’s no external influence putting pressure on who to vote for. As such, the Star Awards are synonymous with being fully representative of the best in the industry. So, if you truly value the service and support that you receive from suppliers, then they should get your vote. It's a situation that works both ways - support them as they support you. You can vote for the industry's finest on page 29 - remember, your vote may be one of many, but it's a vote that counts.
T
Agincourt Line, going from Kings Cross to greet any French visitors
Online Sales Manager: Nick Boocock nick.boocock@travelbulletin.co.uk The 'No weekend engineering works, runs like clockwork' Line
Account Manager: Bill Coad bill.coad@travelbulletin.co.uk Heritage Avenue
Sales Executive: Chris Gascoine chris.gascoine@travelbulletin.co.uk The Millwall Line that connects South East London to the rest of London
Sales Executive: Matt Gill matt.gill@travelbulletin.co.uk The Bread line
Senior Designer: Genaro Santos genaro.santos@travelbulletin.co.uk
"With regards to Travel Bulletin's Star Awards, it is very important
Crepe City
for us agents to vote on our favourite suppliers and also to let them
Assistant Designer: Nicky Valsamakis nicky.valsamakis@travelbulletin.co.uk
know why they are so special to us. The reason for why we should
Jelly Bean
vote is to show our support to the suppliers that help us in every
Production: Erica Sesay production@travelbulletin.co.uk
aspect of making a booking for our customers. The relationships we
The New
have with suppliers is very important, so we need to show them
Circulation Manager: Jim Merchant post@travelbulletin.co.uk
how important they are to us."
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
Follow us on Twitter! @TravelBulletin 30
April 25 2014
Marie Rayner, Travel Counsellors
puzzlesolutions Crossword: Across: 1. TABER, 4. BACON, 6. MARTINIQUE, 8. ARNO, 9. AURORA, 12. ETIHAD, 13. HIND, 15. BRIDGETOWN, 17. NEVIS, 18. KRONA. Down: 1. TOM DALEY, 2. BURUNDI, 3. RAIL, 4. BEIRUT, 5. CFU, 7. SARDINIA, 10. ORINOCO, 11. TARDIS, 14. LEEK, 16. REV.
Highlighted Word: TAHITI Travagrams: (top) EVA Air
(bottom) Phnom Penh
Where Am I?: Uruguay
www.travelbulletin.co.uk
S07 TB2504 2014 Awards Preview 3_Layout 1 4/23/2014 3:51 PM Page 31
How much do you love Holiday Extras? Remember us when you VOTE for the 2014 Travel Bulletin Star Awards:
Star Holiday Add-Ons Operator What we’ve given to our partners in the last year: - Vast earning potential - Our team’s helpful contacts - Training for your staff - Exclusive products - Holiday Extras automatically stream our product information to your system or site
We offer you the best products at the cheapest prices: Airport parking | Airport hotels | Airport lounges | Travel insurance | Over 50s travel insurance with Latitude
VOTE for happy, hassle-free customers and choose Holiday Extras as your favourite supplier:
www.holidayextras.com/starawards
S07 TB2504 2014 Awards Preview 3_Layout 1 4/23/2014 3:51 PM Page 32
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