TB 08 07 22 Cover_Layout 1 05/07/2022 15:38 Page 1
July 08 2022 | ISSUE NO 4,201
Giving agents the edge
Southern Africa Wildlife spotting to immersive city experiences
more in... Agent Bulletin Training and incentives Pg. 7 Star Awards Sponsors More on our sponsors for this year’s event Pg. 12 Pix Mix All the action from our City Breaks Showcase Pg. 21 Greece & Cyprus Holidays to the Med Pg. 27
Husain AlHashmi Abu Dhabi calls on UK agents
S01 TB 08 07 22 Start_TB 2022 Master template 05/07/2022 12:28 Page 2
S01 TB 08 07 22 Start_TB 2022 Master template 05/07/2022 12:28 Page 3
NEWS BULLETIN
JULY 08 2022 | travelbulletin.co.uk
03
this week
NEWS Updates from the travel industry.
06
JUST SAY ‘I DO’ Finder.com has identified the top holiday hotspots for destination weddings, with Italy coming out on top.
AGENT INSIGHT Abbie Heaton from Blue Bay Travel offers advice for agents booking amid travel disruption.
FINDER.COM HAS found the most
(fourth), France (fifth), Turkey (eighth) and
popular destination wedding hotspots for
Portugal (ninth) making the top 10.
Brits tying the knot.
Despite being home to the famous
Italy is currently the most popular foreign
12
only 13th in terms of search popularity, tied
according to research from the personal
with Jordan.
finance comparison site, finder.com. It is closely followed by Ireland, with both
STAR AWARDS SPONSORS All about the sponsors for this year’s dazzling Star Awards!
CITY BREAKS Bustling capitals and coastal cities: choices to suit all tastes.
more popular with Brits looking for
sought-after than other countries. The
weddings abroad than the Seychelles -
data shows that Ireland is twice as popular
despite all three islands being relatively
as the Mediterranean destinations of Spain
close in the Indian Ocean.
Following years of disappointment and
Commenting on the findings, Kate Anderson, said: “Weddings can be
cancellations for couples, wedding season
expensive at the best of times. For couples
is back in full swing. By analysing Google
looking for that dream destination wedding,
trends data for the months leading up to the
they’ll want to keep the costs as low as
summer, finder.com discovered that UK
possible.
couples looking to get married abroad are
“Cost savings can come from keeping the
focusing their attention on European
guest list small or choosing a destination
destinations.
that’s off the beaten track. In some cases, a
In fact, eight of the top 10 countries are
27
Interestingly, the island destinations of Mauritius and the Maldives are six times
countries proving to be significantly more
or Cyprus, which were tied in fourth.
15
wedding spot of Las Vegas, the U.S.A was
country for Brits to get married in,
European, with Greece (third), Spain
wedding abroad can work out cheaper than getting married on home soil...”
GREECE & CYPRUS Sun-soaked holidays to these Mediterranean gems.
Published by : Alain Charles Publishing (Travel) Ltd University House, 11-13 Lower Grosvenor Place London, SW1W 0EX
Printed by: Buxton Press Subscriptions are £125 p.a. £195 overseas ISSN: 0956-2419
020 7973 0136 www.travelbulletin.co.uk
@TravelBulletin @TravelBulletin Travel_Bulletin
3
S01 TB 08 07 22 Start_TB 2022 Master template 05/07/2022 12:29 Page 4
Showcase Calendar
JULY 08 2022 | travelbulletin.co.uk Sign up to our showcases: www.travelbulletin.co.uk/events/agents
12th July Cruise Showcase
12th September
Exeter
North America Showcase
Maidstone
13th July Australasia & Pacific Islands Showcase
Cambridge Vietnam reopens its tourism office
kers a h s s r move
&
THE VIETNAM Tourism
Ancient Town and My Son
Board has announced the
Sanctuary. The province has
reopening of its UK and
recently launched
has appointed
Ireland office.
Blue Bay Travel
www.VisitQuangNam.com, a
Sunny Gill to
Among the top holiday
sustainable tourism website
the position of
destinations to be promoted
showcasing the rich cultural
trade support team leader to
this year is Quang Nam,
and natural experiences in
further strengthen relationships
home to two UNESCO World
the area.
with its trade partners.
Heritage sites – Hoi An
www.vietnam.travel Wendy Wu
Rocky Mountaineer launches a new promotion VIEWERS INSPIRED by the Channel 5 series, ‘The World’s Most Scenic
Tours has appointed Gary King to the new
Railway Journeys’, which aired on July 1, can take advantage of Rocky
role of head of trade sales.
Mountaineer’s All Aboard 2023 travel promotion.
Gary will lead the company’s
Agents who book their client a 2023 trip before August 31, 2022 will
development and growth in
receive £585 off per couple on select 2023 travel dates for Rocky
the trade, along with a
Mountaineer’s Canadian and US routes.
dedicated team.
The ‘Rockies to the Red Rocks Classic’ rail trip costs from £1,596 per person. Aileen
x
Rutherford and Ryan Clayton have joined Jet2holiday’s Trade Sales Executive team, and will be responsible for working in collaboration with independent travel agents to help increase sales.
Image Credits: Adobe Stock, Rocky Mountaineer.
www.rockymountaineer.com
S02 TB 08 07 22 PIX MIX_TB 2022 Master template 05/07/2022 15:50 Page 5
NEWS BULLETIN
JULY 08 2022 | travelbulletin.co.uk
We Care About There: Rabbie’s new eco tours SCOTTISH-BASED OPERATOR Rabbie’s has
dedicate their time to caring for Scotland’s
teamed up with VisitScotland to offer
cultural heritage along with the nation’s
sustainable and responsible travel with
environments and landscapes. This option
ethical experiences.
starts from £379 per person.
A two-day ‘Whisky & Castles’ tour offers
The green programmes include a self-
guests a look behind the curtain at two
imposed carbon tax, which, to date, has
sustainable distilleries. Prices start from
raised over £120,000 for environmental and
£115 per person.
social projects chosen by staff.
The five-day ‘Orkney & Scotland’s Northern Coast’ spotlights the lives of locals who
www.rabbies.com
Mauritius further eases restrictions THE REPUBLIC of Mauritius has announced further easing to the Covid-19 travel restrictions for international guests. Since July 1, 2022, face covering requirements have been eased, and arrival tests for vaccinated travellers are no longer required. Arvind Bundhun, director of the Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority, said: “I am confident that our post-pandemic recovery is well underway, and with the easing of
Jet2 extends summer season to Bodrum
measures bookings for the second
JET2.COM AND Jet2holidays has brought forward the beginning of its summer 2023 season to Bodrum, with flights and
half of 2022 will be stimulated.”
package holidays operating from the beginning of April from Birmingham, Manchester and London Stansted airports. Flights will take to the skies from April 3, 2023, on Mondays and Fridays weekly, from Birmingham and London Stansted, with Manchester joining with Thursday and Sunday flights from April 6, 2023. Steve Heapy, CEO of Jet2.com and Jet2holidays, said: “We are delighted to be bringing forward the start of the summer season to Bodrum and offering flights and holidays to this popular destination from April 2023 from Birmingham, Manchester and London Stansted airports.”
Image Credits: Top Left - Rabbie’s, Top Right - Adobe Stock, Bottom Left - CLIA, Bottom Right - LUX* Hotels & Resorts
Hotels included in the package options from Jet2holidays comprise the four-star Bodrum Holiday Resort & Spa, Maxeria Blue Didyma, and Parkim Ayaz, along with a number of other choices.
Newmarket Holidays launches new brochure
CLIA launches ‘Love Bites’ for agents
NEWMARKET HOLIDAYS has
CRUISE LINES International Association
UK & Ireland,
launched its new brochure.
(CLIA) has introduced a new speed training
said: “With
The new ‘Escorted Tours and
initiative for its UK trade partners, ‘Love Bites’.
speakers from
Holidays Collection 2022-2024’
The Love Bites are free for CLIA members
across a range
includes a wide range of new
and will livestream weekly on Thursdays from
of cruise
worldwide tours, from new
9.30am, kicking off on July 14 and running
brands, and
offerings in the UK and Europe, to
until August 25, 2022.
with sector
the Americas, Asia and Africa.
specialists also attending, these bite-sized
Newmarket Holidays' latest
presentations, virtual ship tours and product
sessions are not to be missed for agents
campaign, 'Dream it. See it. Share
updates from ocean, river, luxury and
looking to capitalise on ever-increasing
it.', offering 15% off, runs from now
expedition cruise lines.
customer demand.”
until July 31.
www.cruising.org
www.newmarketholidays.co.uk
The sessions will invite agents for
Andy Harmer, CLIA managing director for
5
S02 TB 08 07 22 PIX MIX_TB 2022 Master template 05/07/2022 12:54 Page 6
NEWS BULLETIN
JULY 08 2022 | travelbulletin.co.uk
T N E G A IGHT
S N I
Anguilla’s summer festival returns for 2022 THE ANGUILLA Summer Festival returns from July 28 to
ABBIE HEATON
August 7, 2022.
BLUE BAY TRAVEL
side, celebrating the indigenous roots of the island through
The festival invites locals and visitors to celebrate side-bycuisine, art, music, dance and the national sport of sailing.
THIS HAS been a tough period for travel, with cancelled
A packed schedule includes a Caribbean Beach Party on
flights and media reports of airport chaos, which is an
August 1, the Grand Parade of Troupes on August 5 and the
ongoing issue and is causing some concern as we
Anguilla Poker Run on August 6.
approach the peak summer holiday season. The reality is,
There are return flights from London Gatwick with British
while no-one wants to hear this news, it does reinforce
Airways, starting from £659 per person, departing on
the benefits of booking with a specialised travel
July 27, 2022.
consultant who can really help every step of the way when it comes to tricky areas such as rescheduling
SILVERSEA HAS strengthened its Antarctic offering with new choices
flights. This travel chaos highlights the importance of
for fly-cruise voyages. "In response to exceptional demand, we have
personal travel consultants.
added three new fly-cruise voyages aboard Silver Cloud® for 2024,
Congratulations to the agents across the industry who
enhancing our industry-leading Antarctica offering and strengthening
have spent a significant amount of time in recent months
our destination leadership,” said Roberto Martinoli, Silversea’s
amending and rebooking to make sure their clients
president and CEO.
receive the very best service and minimal disruption. I think it is important for agents to take time to really
Three new voyages aboard Silver Cloud will sail in February 2024. www.silvercruises.com
understand their customers and listen to their needs. Your natural charm is your secret weapon so use your personality to break the ice. Dig deep to ascertain exactly what the customer wants to get out of their treasured holiday. Help them to paint a picture of what their perfect holiday looks like and then show them how to get it. The customer is looking to you for the expertise and vast experience you can offer. Share your own experiences and destination knowledge to help set the scene. Also, don’t be afraid to ask for the sale and address any concerns the customer might have to remove obstacles to booking. I was always taught – if you have three yes answers, the customer will book! Don’t forget to utilise ‘mirror matching’ to build a connection with the customer, for example, “So, Abbie, you said you like different restaurants, I have nine for you to choose from...” Travel agents, now is our time to shine!
MSC CRUISES has unveiled its largest-ever kids’ area aboard MSC World Europa, which is set to hit the seas in December 2022. Three kids’ clubs, for toddlers up to three, juniors up to 11, and teens up to 17, will have a number of areas to explore. Matteo Mancini, the kids’ entertainment manager, said: “We have invested heavily in the entertainment offering... we know they value the latest technology, trends and experiences.”
Image Credits: Bottom - MSC Cruises, Anguilla Tourism Board.
6
S02 TB 08 07 22 PIX MIX_TB 2022 Master template 05/07/2022 13:33 Page 7
AGENT BULLETIN
JULY 08 2022 | travelbulletin.co.uk
AGENT INCENTIVES • AGENTS CAN log every Ras Al Khaimah booking made to earn entries into a prize draw, with one lucky agent winning a five-night half
Agent bulletin
board stay. www.rakrewards.com • SANDALS IS giving away a £25 voucher for bookings made across all categories, dates and durations to the new Sandals Royal Curaçao resort. Stays up to August 5, 2022 are valid. Butler Suites include a £50 voucher, with a surprise spot prize of £50 available weekly. Email booking details to the business development manager to claim. • CELESTYAL CRUISES is offering a £20 voucher for The Real Greek with all
20 UK AGENTS from TUI agencies across Manchester and Birmingham were fortunate enough to take part in a fam trip, exploring 14 attractions across the island as part of the Jamaica Tourist Board’s destination investment. Donovan White, Director of Tourism at Jamaica Tourist Board said: “It was an absolute pleasure meeting so many agents and for them to have experienced the real Jamaica.”
2022 and 2023 bookings on Iconic Aegean, Idyllic Aegean, Eclectic Aegean, Three Continents and Steps of Paul, Christmas, New Year, and combined Christmas and New Year sailings. To claim, email tradesupport@celestyal.com • AS PART of its Canada Day celebrations, agents can identify images of Canada from a 40-photo selection for the chance to win a Bluetooth speaker, maple
n o i t i t e p m o C Win your way to the Maldives! Explore the exclusive trade rates and answer three simple questions for the chance to win a place on a fam trip with Sun Siyam Resorts.
syrup cookbook and stationery set. Image Credit: JTB
www.facebook.com/CAFag entsadmin
Find out more at www.travelbulletin.co.uk/ competitions
AGENT TRAINING ● THE STATE of Michigan has unveiled a new training platform, Pure Michigan Expert. The training allows agents to learn all about the state and its attractions. Kelly Wolgamott, the board’s director of marketing, said: “We are delighted to be launching this new venture which will support our industry partners and help them become experts with a depth of understanding on Michigan as a travel destination, and therefore better serve their customers.” www.puremichiganexpert.com ● AGENTS CAN get up to date with the USA by completing badges on the USA Discovery Program. Completing two badges gives agents the chance to win an American cookbook, four badges offers the chance to win a £100 John Lewis voucher, and six badges offers a bumper £150 voucher. www.usadiscoveryprogram.c o.uk ● HEAD TO Travel Bulletin’s TravelGym to be entered into a draw to win a £50 Amazon voucher or Maltese gastronomy goody bag every month. The more courses taken, the more entries agents earn. The courses cover the family offerings, LGBT+ attractions, scuba diving activities and much more. www.malta-training.com ● PRINCESS CRUISES’ dedicated platform hosts a world of information to simplify the Princess booking process, with new 10-15 minute training modules, the POLAR ONLINE booking system, a live webchat, events, competitions and incentives. www.onesourcecruises.com ● AS OF July 1, Galagents Galapagos Cruises will start offering a 24/7 chat service in order to answer all of agent’s destination questions. www.galagents.com
7
S02 TB 08 07 22 PIX MIX_TB 2022 Master template 05/07/2022 12:54 Page 8
Mediterranean Showcase WE WELCOMED a whole host of agents for our Mediterranean showcase events in Southampton and Swindon.
Headline Sponsor
Headline sponsor Virgin Voyages was joined by Visit Greece, Visit Malta, the Tunisian National Tourist Office, Love Cyprus, Constantinou Bros Hotels, Portaventura World and Israel for two evenings of great food and drink, networking, presentations and the all-important prizes!
Want to get in on the #TBShowcases action? Our next event will be the Cruise Showcase taking place in Exeter on July 12, followed by the Australasia and Pacific Islands Showcase in Cambridge on July 13. To confirm your place or find out when we will be hosting our next event near you contact events@travelbulletin.co.uk
S02 TB 08 07 22 PIX MIX_TB 2022 Master template 05/07/2022 16:00 Page 9
PUZZLE BULLETIN
JULY 08 2022 | travelbulletin.co.uk
SUDOKU
Win a £20 M&S voucher in the SuDoku prize puzzle Fill in all the squares in the grid so that each row, column and each of the 3 x 3 squares contains the digits 1-9. Once you have completed the puzzle, simply identify the numbers that relate to the letters, A, B, C and D then e-mail the solution, with your name, company name, and full postal address plus phone and ABTA number if applicable to: competition@travelbulletin.co.uk Closing date for entries is Thursday, July 21. Solution and new puzzle will appear in the next issue.
A
B C
The winner for JuneFor 24 all is competitions visit Eddie Doyle http://www.travelbulletin.co.uk/component/r from Pearl King Travel sform/form/1593-Travel-Trivia-Quiz
June 24 Solution: A=4 B=6 C=2 D=9
D
where
am i ? A bronze statue by Edvard Eriksen, depicting a sea creature becoming human. It is said to be based on the 1837 fairy tale of the same name by Danish author Hans Christian Andersen.
Across
Down
1 Flag carrier of Indonesia (6) 3 Major car rental company (4) 7 Vilamoura is a popular resort in this holiday region (7) 9 Type of transport (5) 11 Family from 10 Down who start this cruise company in 1848 (5) 12 Niamey is the capital (5) 14 Family friendly P&O cruise ship (5) 16 California home of Disneyland (7) 18 English walled city with Roman roots and a Viking past (4) 19 New York borough, ___ Island (6)
1 Famous music festival held at Worthy Farm (11) 2 Airport code for Durban King Shaka International (3) 4 If men are from Mars, women are from here (5) 5 Scottish comedian, often seen cruising on TV (5,6) 6 Italian city and the setting for Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet (6) 8 Glasgow international airport code (3) 10 European country known for its scenic fjords (6) 13 Welsh peninsula which was Britain’s first designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (5) 15 Abu Dhabi is the capital (3) 17 Family owned company offering river and small ship cruises (3)
CROSSWORD
FILL IN THE CROSSWORD TO REVEAL THE MYSTERY LOCATION HIGHLIGHTED BY THE GREEN SQUARES.
9
Across: 1 GARUDA, 3 AVIS, 7 ALGARVE, 9 TRAIN, 11 OLSEN, 12 NIGER, 14 AZURA, 16 ANAHEIM, 18 YORK, 19 STATEN. Down: 1 GLASTONBURY, 2 DUR, 4 VENUS, 5 SUSAN CALMAN, 6 VERONA, 8 GLA, 10 NORWAY, 13 GOWER, 15 UAE, 17 APT. Mystery Word: SARK
S03 TB 08 07 22 Star Awards SPonsor_TB 2022 Master template 05/07/2022 13:01 Page 10
S03 TB 08 07 22 Star Awards SPonsor_TB 2022 Master template 05/07/2022 13:01 Page 11
S03 TB 08 07 22 Star Awards SPonsor_TB 2022 Master template 05/07/2022 13:02 Page 12
NOW THAT we’ve lifted the lid on the categories for our Star Awards, we are proud to announce our sponsors for this year’s coveted travel industry awards event!
jetset JETSET IS absolutely delighted that the Star Awards has made a much needed and welcomed return to the
and priorities of its only client – the travel agents. A significant upgrade from the team is ongoing to
industry calendar. The awards have always been a
ensure multi-sector itineraries are made as easy to
highlight of the year for so many organisations that work
transact as Package Pal bookings. Villa packages have
so hard and rejoice in the recognition of being
already been released on to the JETS system but plans
nominated for an award chosen by travel agents.
are in place to add additional content.
There has been a strong bounce back while resourcing
In another exciting development, Eurostar should
issues affect the industry. Jetset is no different and
become fully bookable during 2022, enabling Jetset to
operationally the company has been stretched. Jetset
sell the full Eurostar network
hopes to take this opportunity to thank agents for the
Agents who vote in this year's Star Awards can get
patience they have shown during this period of
excited about being placed in a free prize draw to pick
transition.
up one of these bounce back prizes courtesy of Jetset:
Jetset took decisive action during the lockdowns to boost innovation within the JETS system and, in doing so, has enabled agents to now book on average 86% of bookings across the JETS system. The company is not resting on its laurels, and work continues at pace to ensure JETS development meets the changing needs
1st Prize - Bounce over to Bruges for a 2 night weekend break on Eurostar. 2nd Prize - Bounce all the way to the bank with a £200.00 cheque (taxes paid). 3rd Prize - A UK bungee jump to get your heart bouncing!
Gran Canaria GRAN CANARIA is excited to see the comeback of the
for our destination, when the number of tourists
Travel Bulletin Star Awards, the key event in the
overpassed the 2019 figures! Known as a ‘continent
industry’s calendar that reunites the best of the travel
in miniature’, this beautiful island is definitely worth
agents and suppliers in a blissful evening. This year's
exploring. Combine sun and beach luxury holidays by
special edition is more important than ever, as the trade
well-known Maspalomas dunes, with a short escape to
comes together to celebrate the resilience, dedication,
the capital, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, the city with
passion and patience of all travel agents after a difficult
interesting historical heritage, or with some days in
couple of years .
the north of the island, for a more authentic
Gran Canaria is experiencing a real boom in bookings at the moment and this Easter was a key tipping point
experience. #GranCanaria #GreatDestination
GO TO WWW.TRAVELBULLETIN.CO.UK/STARAWARDS TO VOTE FOR YOUR FAVOURITES
S03 TB 08 07 22 Star Awards SPonsor_TB 2022 Master template 05/07/2022 16:37 Page 13
S04 TB 08 07 22 IN THE HOT SEAT_TB 2022 Master template 05/07/2022 13:08 Page 14
14
IN THE HOT SEAT
JULY 08 2022 | travelbulletin.co.uk
In the hotseat witH...
i m h s a H l A n i a s u H Tourism Authority Abu Dhabi
Husain AlHashmi, acting director of travel trade and market development for the Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority, on updates and the importance of the travel trade. ACTING DIRECTOR of the travel trade
synagogue, a church and a mosque will
trade, and this won't be the last time we
and market development for Abu Dhabi
all be side-by-side, so this is truly one-
do something like this. We want
Tourism, Husain AlHashmi, sat
of-a-kind. The Sheikh Zayed National
everyone to get to know us better, and
down with Travel Bulletin at Abu
Museum will also be coming in 2025.
agents know they can sell holidays
Dhabi’s first UK showcase event to
We’re also currently investing in our
throughout the whole year. Our
discuss tourism updates, what to
culinary scene.
infrastructure, properties and attractions
expect for the rest of the year, and the importance of UK agents.
are designed to make us a year-round Summer promotion
destination – attractions like Warner
This is actually the
Bros. World and Ferrari World are
Tourism plans to come
first time we’re
We are planning to exceed our
actively promoting
2019 visitor numbers, and we
Abu Dhabi as a
want to reach our 2030 target of
summer destination.
always open. Travel agent importance Travel agents are hugely important
23 million visitors. We are working very
The campaign is called
hard to achieve these targets - we
‘Summer like you mean
of trust during the
actually launched this target before the
it!’. With this, the summer
pandemic, due to the
pandemic, but we still believe we can
pass has been created to
achieve these goals. Being that the UK is
support the campaign,
in the top 10 source markets for us,
where visitors get to
historically, due to the long relationship
experience Abu Dhabi with
that we have. We have a lot of other
this value-added pass.
attractions that are growing that we are highlighting at this event, for example, at the end of this
There is access to three theme parks, transportation access, and access to the
completed. At this attraction, a
uncertainty surrounding travel, and we want to capitalise on this. This year, we will be continuing our fam trips. What we did is we carried out fam trips thematically, for example a luxury-focused fam trip for
Jubilee Pass, which covers the cultural
luxury sellers. We also created an e-
sites, and one free access to the Louvre.
learning programme and now, running
year the Ibrahimic House will be
to us. Agents have gained a lot
until December, we have an incentive Abu Dhabi Showcase event
programme for the top sellers. We want
The whole idea of this showcase event
to keep working on joint marketing
is to build a deeper relationship with the
activities with our trusted agent partners.
S04 TB 08 07 22 IN THE HOT SEAT_TB 2022 Master template 05/07/2022 13:08 Page 15
CITY BREAKS HALLOWEEN HORROR Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights makes for a shock-filled stop on Orlando city breaks UNIVERSAL STUDIOS’ Halloween Horror Nights makes a return to Florida this year, a choice for families looking for a scare-filled city break. The event features a double dose of terror inspired by the studio now regarded as the driving force in horror with ‘The Horrors of Blumhouse’ haunted house which brings to life Blumhouse’s upcoming supernatural thriller The Black Phone and horrorcomedy Freaky. The event begins at Universal Orlando Resort on September 2 and at Universal Studios Hollywood on September 8. ‘The Horrors of Blumhouse’ will
trick of making people disappear –
looking teen who is actually The Butcher
permanently. Guests will find
– and she is determined to hunt for the
transport guests into an alternate
themselves trapped in his ‘fun’ house
next victims.
dimension where the scares are real and
where the sound of ghostly voices
the stakes are life or death. In The Black
whisper hints on how to escape, but
Universal Orlando Resort are available
Phone, ‘The Grabber’ is a demented
guests must tread carefully to outwit
via a number of travel partners including
magician best known for his sinister
and outrun The Grabber’s twisted
AttractionTickets.com, Floridatix,
magic. Freaky will challenge guests to
Orlando Attraction Tickets, Travel
Tickets for Halloween Horror Nights at
outrun serial killer ‘The Butcher’ who
Republic and Ocean Florida.
Just Go! Holidays promotes twin Christmas break
has switched bodies with a high school
Both events will run select nights
girl after being cursed by the La Dola
through Monday, October 31, and more
Dagger, an ancient Aztec blade. Guests
details and haunted houses will be
JUST GO! Holidays is promoting its
will learn firsthand that looks can be
revealed soon.
Christmas Markets coach break that
deceiving as they encounter the sweet-
www.HalloweenHorrorNights.com.
offers the chance visit two of Scotland’s vibrant cities. and Edinburgh, which both boast enticing
Culinary delights with Newmarket Holidays
markets selling original gifts and
NEWMARKET HOLIDAYS is offering a seven-day culinary-
decorations, delicious food, mulled wine
focused trip – ‘Madrid, Porto, and the Douro Valley’.
This three-day break visits Glasgow
and festive produce. Image Credits: Top - Universal Orlando, Bottom - Adobe Stock.
There is also an excursion to
Madrid, the starting point, takes guests to grand boulevards to reveal the city’s multi-influenced history.
Glasgow’s traditional Christmas Market,
Venturing towards the vineyards of the outlying wineries,
which offers a variety of colourful stalls
the tour then travels to estates, promising plenty of
that are home to traders from across the
tastings.
globe. Available on November 26 and December 3, 10 and 17, 2022, this coach break is priced from £139 per person. www.justgoholidays.com/agents
Porto serves as the final stop, with a chance to seek out its architectural splendours, sip port in a centuries-old wine cellar and sail across the Douro River. The price starts from £1,232 per person. www.newmarketholidays.co.uk
S04 TB 08 07 22 IN THE HOT SEAT_TB 2022 Master template 05/07/2022 13:08 Page 16
S04 TB 08 07 22 IN THE HOT SEAT_TB 2022 Master template 05/07/2022 13:08 Page 17
CITY BREAKS
JULY 08 2022 | travelbulletin.co.uk
‘Classic Japan’ with Wild Frontiers WILD FRONTIERS is offering its ‘Classic
Itsukushima Shrine and one of the finest
Japan’ itinerary for those looking to tick off
views in Japan.
multiple cities.
Wild Frontiers offers a tailor made ‘Classic
Meliá Chiang Mai opens its doors
Beginning among the bustling
Japan’ itinerary from £3,620 per person,
MELIA CHIANG Mai, a 260-key
thoroughfares of its capital, travellers will
based on two people travelling and includes
urban hotel in the heart of
have some time to discover a little of
all meals, transport, entrance fees,
Thailand’s mountainous Chiang
Tokyo’s traditional heritage before departing
accommodation and an expert team of
Mai, has opened.
for the mountain passes of the Hida region.
guides. The itinerary can be tailor-made to
After enjoying the comforts of a traditional
suit guests’ interests and budget and so the
close to the city, Meliá Chiang
Japanese ryokan, journey on towards
final price may differ.
Mai is located six kilometers from
Takayama and Kanazawa where guests can
www.wildfrontierstravel.com
the Chiang Mai International
Perfect for those wanting to be
enjoy the beautiful Kenroku-en Garden
Airport, near an array of tourist
before moving on to Kyoto.
attractions including the Old Town
In the old imperial capital, guests will
with its ancient moat and red-
discover some of the finest gems in Japan’s
brick walls. The city’s oldest
cultural treasure trove before continuing on
temple Wat Chiang Man, and the
to Hiroshima to visit the poignant setting of
scenic Ang Kaew Reservoir are in
its Peace Memorial Park. The climax of the
close proximity, with the elephant
journey sees guests crossing by ferry to the
rescue center Elephant Nature
sacred island of Miyajima, home to the
Park, the stunning Mae Ya Waterfall, and UNESCO's latest biosphere reserve Doi Chiang Dao in the mountainous surroundings. Housed in a 22-floor tower fronted by an adjoining sevenfloor podium building, Meliá Chiang Mai’s host of top-notch facilities includes two restaurants, two bars, and two lounges, one of which is an executive lounge on the 21st floor. Other facilities include Meliá’s signature YHI Spa with seven treatment rooms, a fullyequipped fitness centre, swimming pool, ballroom, four
Image Credits: Top and Bottom - Adobe Stock.
Celebrate Christmas the Czech way
other meeting spaces, and a kids and teens club.
PRAGUE'S MEDIEVAL houses, illuminated
Bridge and head to the fairytale castle
Old Town Hall and dustings of snow provide
perched on a hill for beautiful views of the
Chiang Mai is offering up to 35%
To celebrate its opening, Meliá
an idyllic winter setting to explore the city’s
city and the river Vltava.
off its accommodations for
vibrant Christmas markets.
The Prague Christmas Markets open daily
bookings on melia.com, for stays
Travellers will find the Old Town Square
from November 26, 2022 to January 6,
until September 15, 2022.
alive with the streams of seasonal
2023.
decorations, twinkling lights and the
www.visitczechrepublic.com/en-US/Things-
www.melia.com/en/hotels/thailan
Christmas tree that dominates the square.
to-Do/Places/Experiences/Entertainment/s-p
d/chiang-mai/melia-chiang-
Guests can walk over the iconic Charles
rague-winter-fun
mai/index.htm
17
S04 TB 08 07 22 IN THE HOT SEAT_TB 2022 Master template 05/07/2022 13:08 Page 18
CITY BREAKS
JULY 08 2022 | travelbulletin.co.uk
InsideJapan raring to go once more INSIDEJAPAN AND its team of 'Insider' tour leaders are dusting off their group tour boots as the nation's borders begin to reopen again to tourists on fully escorted tours. A selection of small group tours have gone on sale, kicking off this month. The 13-
“These are not tours in their own 'tour
night 'Japan Unmasked' tour (departing July
bubble'. Far from it,” said Simon King, one
18) and 10-night 'HYPERJAPAN J-pop & GO!'
of InsideJapan's co-founders.
itinerary (departing July 2 and 23, 2022) will
“Travelling with an Insider, they allow
be the first taste of escorted touring in Japan
people to make the most out of their limited
Poland's summer cities celebrated with #PolandVibes
for over two and a half years.
time in the country, unlocking cultural doors
THE POLISH Tourism
other excursions differ. 'Japan Unmasked'
person, with 13 nights' accommodation,
Organisation has set its sights on
heads to the Japanese Alps, with
daily breakfast, transport across Japan and
the summer, launching the
accommodation in Shukubo temple
the services of InsideJapan's 'Insider' tour
season's social media campaign,
lodgings, a Ryokan guest house and a
guides. The 10-night 'HYPERJAPAN J-pop &
#PolandVibes, to highlight the
family-run Minshuku, while 'JYPERJAPAN J-
GO!' tour starts from £2,800 per person,
culture of hospitality in its
pop & GO!' dives deep into the heart of
with 10 nights' accommodation, daily
vibrant cities. The campaign will
Osaka and offers the chance to climb
breakfast, guide services, transport, and a
highlight how fun, safe and
Mount Fuji.
range of cultural experiences.
Both tours showcase the classic sights of Tokyo, Kyoto and Hiroshima, but routes and
that wouldn't be open to visitors otherwise.” 'Japan Unmasked' starts from £2,610 per
accessible Poland is this summer. As part of the campaign, the
Cruise in the city: Emerald's luxury yacht collection
organisation will harness digital
EMERALD CRUISE has unveiled its collection of 2023 and 2024 yacht cruise itineraries, with
influencers and content on social
luxury voyages aboard Emerald Azzurra and Emerald Sakara (debuting in 2023) exploring
media platforms, hosting live
some of the most picturesque cities across the Caribbean, Central America, Atlantic,
webcam footage from across the
Mediterranean and Adriatic.
nation and asking visitors to post their experiences. Dorota Wojciechowska, the
The Mediterranean voyages tick off a number of the coastline's most impressive cities, from the ancient history of Rome to the bustling spirit of Casablanca. The 18-day 'Discover Western Mediterranean & Morocco' blends city escapes with leisurely
UK’s director of the Polish
beach breaks, ticking off five Mediterranean countries on a single sun-drenched voyage. The
Tourism Organisation said: “We
itinerary, which is new for the 2023/24 schedule, departs from Santa Cruz de Tenerife before
are a big-hearted nation, and we
calling at Arrecife, Casablanca, Gibraltar, Motril, Cartagena, Ibiza, Mahón, Bonifacio,
are still warmly welcoming
Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy, Sorrento, Amalfi, Gaeta, Porto Cervo, Sardinia, Bonifacio, France
visitors. Our tourist attractions,
and Porto Santo. Prices start from £7,580 per person departing on April 17, 2024, including
hotels and restaurants are open
return flights, transfers, on-board meals, and excursions.
as usual, and we are very much
www.emeraldcruises.co.uk
looking forward to a summer of cultural highlights where visitors will continue to receive the excellent hospitality and warm welcome long associated with Poland." www.poland.travel/en
Image Credits: Top Left - Polish Tourism Organisation, Right- Adobe Stock, Bottom - Emerald Cruises,
18
S05 TB 08 07 22 City Breaks_TB 2022 Master template 05/07/2022 13:04 Page 19
S05 TB 08 07 22 City Breaks_TB 2022 Master template 05/07/2022 13:05 Page 20
CITY BREAKS
JULY 08 2022 | travelbulletin.co.uk
Upgrade trips to Abu Dhabi with the summer pass WITH THE summer holidays around the corner, guests heading to the Middle East can upgrade their Abu Dhabi escapes with an Abu Dhabi Summer Pass.
Capital Region: endless history and charm
The pass offers value discounts across a number of activities, giving travellers even more reasons to visit this
JULY BRINGS warm
summer and discover the city at their
temperatures, Independence Day
own pace. Three of Abu Dhabi’s most
and all eyes on the Capital
impressive theme parks, Warner Bros.
Region of America. From
World Abu Dhabi, Ferrari World Abu
Georgetown’s cobblestone
Dhabi, and Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi,
streets to Maryland’s postcard-
are all included, along with one-day
perfect gems, the region is
admission to the Louvre Abu Dhabi.
brimming with opportunities. Dupont Circle, a cosmopolitan
Along with the impressive theme parks and museums, entry to 13 cultural
Dhabi Bus and Yas Express is included with passes purchased by August 31, 2022.
haven, offers a choice of
sites across abu Dhabi and Al Ain, with
museums and cultural dining.
added benefits of more than 50 cultural
for adults and £112 for children.
The Phillips Collection stands as
offers, is included.
www.visitabudhabi.ae/en/campaign/
America’s first museum of
Complimentary transportation via Abu
The pass starts from approximately £135
summer-pass
modern art, with Embassy Row offering cuisine fit for world leaders but made for visitors.
Summer in the city: Krakow and Katowice
Annie’s Paramount Steakhouse
PLENTY OF city pearls await this summer in
highlights, as well as the old Jewish district,
and Residents are must-dos.
Poland, with the nation’s rich culture,
Kazimierz, which is home to a number of
gastronomy and architecture a sight for
trendy bars and restaurants. The renowned
summer-loving eyes.
Pierogi Festival taking place in the Maly
Ellicott City, in Maryland, is celebrating 250 years since its founding. Home to the nation’s
Poland’s former royal capital, Krakow,
industrial revolution, the city is
offers a bustling medieval pomp, infused
Rynek Square in August is a must.
now home to converted mills,
with modern-day bars and attractions to fill
region, hosts a number of well-maintained
historic bed-and-breakfasts and
guests’ days. Guests can explore the
parks, squares and buzzing music, ideal for
relaxing resorts. One notable
abundance of history, which spans the 1000
active and curious travellers. In recent
bed-and-breakfast, the Wayside
years of Krakow’s existence. The Wawel
years, the city has been transformed from a
Inn, is believed to have once
Royal Castle and the city’s cathedral are
former mining city to a UNESCO Creative
Katowice, the capital of the Silesian
accommodated George
City of Music. The scene has continued to
Washington.
grow, with regular classical music at the
The picture-perfect backdrop
NOSPR Concert Hall and jazz and blues at
of St Michaels, Maryland, makes
any number of clubs spread throughout the
for a charming port of call, with
city. To discover another side of the city,
the brick-lined streets and quaint
P23, an all-night techno club, is an
boutiques and cafés a favourite
impressive party spot located in an old
among locals and visitors alike.
Drzwi porcelain factory. www.poland.travel/en/cities/krakow /
www.capitalregionusa.org
www.poland.travel/en/cities/katowice
Image Credits: Top Left - Adobe Stock, Top Right - Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi, Bottom - Adobe Stock
20
S05 TB 08 07 22 City Breaks_TB 2022 Master template 05/07/2022 13:05 Page 21
City Breaks Showcase OUR SUMMER of showcases continued as Travel Bulletin teamed up with Leger Holidays, the Croatia National Tourist Board, made, Eurostar, and Expedia TAAP to take to the Dunston Hall Hotel, Spa and Golf Resort in Norwich. We welcomed dozens of agents for an evening of presentations, prizes and networking!
S05 TB 08 07 22 City Breaks_TB 2022 Master template 05/07/2022 13:05 Page 22
CITY BREAKS
Explore ‘Imperial Capitals’ with Shearings
JULY 08 2022 | travelbulletin.co.uk
Riviera Travel adds city break extension options RIVIERA TRAVEL has added 10, three-day
dinner and the Captain’s Dinner,
European city break extensions to its 2023
complimentary on-board tea and coffee,
ON SHEARINGS’ 'Imperial
river cruise itineraries, so guests can
and a Riviera Travel Cruise Director and
Capitals – Prague, Budapest and
make the most of their time in either the
Concierge throughout.
Vienna' holiday, guests have the
final destination of their sailing or
opportunity to experience three
a nearby location.
of Europe's most enchanting Eastern cities. Staying in both Vienna and
As part of the booking price, all city breaks include return flights with a choice of to the hotel and hotel to the airport, and a
explore these historic cities and
daily breakfast. countries, are in: Amsterdam; Basel;
guided tours. There will also be
Cologne; Frankfurt; Lyon; Merseille;
an excursion to Budapest, with
Munich; Paris; Porto; and Vienna.
impressive capital city. This holiday is priced from
before July 31, 2022. www.rivieratravel.co.uk
The ten city stay extensions, spanning six
and key sights on included
time at leisure in Hungary's
book a 2023 city stay or tour extension
UK regional airports, transfers from the ship
Prague, there is the chance to learn more about the heritage
Guests save £150 per person when they
Prices start from £2,249 per peron and includes flights and transfers, all onboard meals, welcome cocktails, a welcome
£839 per person, and includes eight nights’ accommodation with continental breakfast and
All things Italy with Rabbie’s
six evening meals. www.shearings.com
OVER SIX days, Rabbie's ‘Cinque Terre, Florence & the Flavours of Tuscany’ holiday takes guests on a journey exploring renaissance art, culture and world-famous wines. Holidaymakers will travel from Milan to Rome by way of Parma, Cinque Terre, Pisa, Florence, Siena and Montepulciano. Travellers will uncover the terraced cliffs and clear deep blue water of the Cinque Terre, admire the famed leaning tower in Pisa before wandering the cobbled streets and picturesque piazzas of Lucca. There will be a chance to admire the finest
See new cities with Jet2
collection of Italian Renaissance art and architecture in Florence before journeying to the stunning hill town of San Gimignano and the Tuscan hills of Va d’Orcia.
JET2 HAS revealed its City
Prices start from €1,519 per person based on an August 1, 2022 departure.
Breaks programme for Summer
Rabbie’s European tour prices include transport in an air conditioned mini-coach with a
23, with flights and city breaks
local driver, the stories and services of an English-speaking guide, accommodation in three-
on sale from six UK bases.
and four-star hotels with continental breakfast and selected excursions.
Two new city break
www.rabbies.com
destinations are on sale from London Stansted Airport – Athens and Rome, as well as new city break destination from Newcastle Airport – Verona. There is a choice of 12 city break destinations to Amsterdam, Athens, Barcelona, Budapest, Paris, Krakow, Nice, Prague, Pisa, Rome, Verona and Venice now on sale. www.jet2holidays.com
Image Credits: Left and Bottom - Adobe Stock, Rright - Riviera Travel.
22
S06 TB 08 07 22 Southern Africa_TB 2022 Master template 05/07/2022 13:01 Page 23
southern africa SPLENDORS OF SOUTH AFRICA Audley Travel has expanded its Africa programme, with a conservation focus in South Africa.
AUDLEY TRAVEL'S Marataba
conservation guide. From tracking
Conservation Camps opened in
cheetah, monitoring the growth rate of
September 2020 and offer clients
elephants, identifying rhinos and
minimum of three nights in either camp,
backstage access to conservation
collecting camera trap data to laidback
a stay in the Star Camp can be
activities while enjoying a private safari
boat trips on the Matlabas River with ice-
arranged. Set up on demand, it puts a
experience in a 52,000-acre privately
cold sundowner drinks, each itinerary is
focus on exploring on foot and has
managed section of the Marakele
designed around the guests’ interests.
accommodation in more basic tents
National Park. Each client group staying at the
Clients can choose between booking
decking by the waterhole. As an add-on for guests booking a
without electricity.
Founders Camp’s four tents on an
The 10-day trip costs from £4,550 per
exclusive basis or staying in a tent in
person (based on four travelling) and
Explorers Camp on a semi-exclusive
includes international flights, domestic
basis. Founders Camp has living areas
flights, transfers, accommodation on an
with terraced decks hanging over the
all-inclusive basis at Marataba and bed-
TOURISTS CAN experience Namibia on
river, a swimming pool and fire pit for
and-breakfast elsewhere and all safari
Intrepid Travel’s 10-day ‘Namibia
sundowner drinks. Explorers Camp’s six
experiences and park fees.
Premium’ trip.
tents (including one family tent) are
property, which takes only three
Experience otherwordly Namibia with bookings at once, hasIntrepid a dedicated
The group will take in desert
complemented by a swimming pool and
www.audleytravel.com/south-africa
landscapes of Swakopmund and
Image Credits: Bottom - Adobe Stock, Top - Audley Travel
Sossusvlei and uncover peaks, forests and culture in Damaraland. There will
Beyond average birding in Botswana
also be the chance to visit
&BEYOND IS offering a nine-day, limited edition itinerary for an
Swakopmund and see animals in the
avian enthusiast (as well as their non-birding partner). Hosted by
vast Etosha National Park.
&BEYOND specialist birding and safari guide, Daryl Dell, travellers
The holiday is priced from £3,515 per
can enjoy interpretive sightings, luxury accommodation and the
adult in a twin share room, based on a
opportunity to unwind amidst the awe-inspiring surrounds of the
September 24, 2022 departure date.
UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Okavango Delta in Botswana.
www.intrepidtravel.com
22, 2023, travel date. www.andbeyond.com
This trip is priced from $11,900 per person, based on a May 14-
S06 TB 08 07 22 Southern Africa_TB 2022 Master template 05/07/2022 13:01 Page 24
SOUTHERN AFRICA
JULY 08 2022 | travelbulletin.co.uk
Go wild with ToursByLocals’ South African safari TRAVELLERS CAN join local guide Sithembiso on his search for the gentle giants of the African forest and be awed by the scenic beauty of Addo Elephant National Park in South Africa with ToursByLocals. The park is home to the ‘Big Five’, and is the third largest national park in South Africa with a total land area of over 133, 000 hectares. The tours are conducted in closed
Conscious stays with Lepogo Lodge
air-conditioned vehicles. ToursByLocals can arrange open game viewing vehicles, subject to availability, to explore the biome
COMMITTED TO supporting local
supporting a diverse population of birds
communities by helping them
and animals. The park has the world's
start businesses, Lepogo Lodges
densest elephant population, lions, buffalo,
guided tour ‘Big Safaris’ from £207 per
is a good choice for clients
the highly elusive black rhino, various
person (price based on a group of two
looking to be socially conscious
antelope species and birds. Tourists can
people). The tour includes guiding service,
while on holiday.
watch the dust fly as herds of elephants
private transportation and admission
come charging towards the waterhole on a
tickets.
Lepogo Lodges’ Noka Camp consists of five stilted villas, including one villa especially
scorching day. ToursByLocals offers the eight-hour
www.toursbylocals.com
designed for families. The villas are joined by a main lodge comprised of dining room, bar, lounge area and sprawling outdoor terrace, all perched atop
Experience the sights and smells of Southern Africa with Exodus
a 100ft cliff overlooking the winding Palala River below and
EXODUS TRAVEL’S ‘Victoria Falls to
spectacular desert landscape and finally
the endless bush ahead. The
Capetown’ holiday will take travellers
Cape Town, South Africa’s most
camp is entirely off-grid, with all
through the heartland of Southern Africa.
cosmopolitan city.
energy self-generated by a bespoke, 250m solar walkway. Just a short air transfer or a three-hour drive from Johannesburg, Noka Camp is set within the 50,000-hectare,
Starting from the mighty Victoria Falls on
This is an adventure through the heart of
the border of Zimbabwe and Zambia, this
southern Africa’s dramatic scenery, with
trip travels through wildlife-rich game parks
rich culture, diverse wildlife and the
in Namibia and Botswana, Namibia's
opportunity to partake in numerous activities along the way. Highlights include a mokoro (traditional
malaria-free Lapalala Wilderness
dug‐out canoe) ride from the camp on the
Reserve, home of the ‘big five’.
Okavango River. Gliding through the
Nightly rates at Lepogo
waterways by mokoro is the ideal way to
Lodges will start from £784 per
absorb the sheer peace and tranquility of
person, per night for a Luxury
the region. There is also the option of a
Clifftop Villa on an all-inclusive
village tour to meet the local community.
board basis.
The 20-day trip starts from £3,899 per person for a November 20, 2022 departure.
www.lepogolodges.com / info@lepogolodges.com
www.exodus.co.uk
Image Credits: Exodus Travels, Lepogo Lodge, Adobe Stock.
24
S06 TB 08 07 22 Southern Africa_TB 2022 Master template 05/07/2022 13:01 Page 25
SOUTHERN AFRICA
JULY 08 2022 | travelbulletin.co.uk
Luxurious birding in Botswana with Ker & Downey THE TEAM of experts from luxury travel
the border of the Chobe National Park, a
company Ker & Downey Africa have
hotspot home to over 450 species. A light
embedded their expertise into a new ‘10 Day
aircraft then brings the group to the Moremi
Botswana Birding Safari LuxVenture’,
Game Reserve, with a private hide offering
More from Malawi with 2022/23 brochure
showcasing the nation’s status as a bird haven
elevated views across the Khwai River. The
WITH ENTRY regulations to
and its biodiversity of over 600 bird species.
final leg takes place in a private Delta
Malawi easing in early June,
concession at one of the Delta’s most
meaning arrivals only require a
luxurious camps.
negative PCR or proof of
Image Credits: Left - Ker & Downey Africa, Right - Malawi Travel Marketing Consortium
“Here at Ker & Downey Africa we understand the difference between birdwatching and birding and have crafted this particular itinerary to provide the best of
The 10-day tour starts from US$11,910 per person, and is available year-round.
both worlds”, says Lisa Nel, head of group product and marketing. “Guests will have the opportunity to both
vaccination, the Malawi Travel Marketing Consortium has unveiled ‘The Best of Malawi’, a
www.ker-downeyafrica.com
28-page brochure available as an e-Book and PDF.
immerse themselves in some of Africa's most
The brochure showcases
untouched wild spaces and see what unveils
over 40 companies offering the
naturally, as well as actively pursue iconic
best of Malawi.
birds of the region with experienced guides.” The experience begins at Camp Kuzuma, on
Explore more at www.malawitourism.com
25
S06 TB 08 07 22 Southern Africa_TB 2022 Master template 05/07/2022 13:01 Page 26
SOUTHERN AFRICA
JULY 08 2022 | travelbulletin.co.uk
Chasing waterfalls from Johannesburg to Nairobi G ADVENTURES offers the ‘Johannesburg to Nairobi Overland: Waterfalls & Beaches’ itinerary for travellers looking to explore Africa on their own terms. The affordable adventure targets young, budget-minded travellers, with a blend of camping and hotel/hostel accommodation throughout. Traversing southern Africa to the east coast, guests kick off in Johannesburg. Crossing the border into Botswana, the group sets up camp in Serowe before a wildlife drive through the Khama Rhino Sanctuary the following morning. Onto Maun and the Okavango Delta, the group boards a traditional canoe through
‘Find Your Freedom’ with Cape Town’s interactive tours
the clear channels. The tour then travels through Zimbabwe,
The 27-day tour starts from £2,575 per person, with a 20% discount available through July 31, 2022. The discount is
calling at Victoria Falls en route, before
reduced to 15% afterwards through
heading north through Zambia, Malawi,
September 30, 2022.
CAPE TOWN Tourism is inviting
Tanzania, and drawing to a close in Kenya
the UK market to ‘Find Your
on the continent’s east coast.
www.gadventures.com
Freedom’, unveiling an interactive guide to the city’s hidden corners. The choice-
Family adventures in Zambia
driven game introduces visitors to the lesser-known experiences
EXPLORE HAS collated the ‘Botswana and
with a late afternoon game drive. The
on offer, led by a choice of
Zambia Family Tour’, bringing the family
35,000 elephants are on show during an
guides: the Fearless Foodie,
together for an adventure through some of
afternoon game viewing on day four.
Nature Warrior or Urban
the last untouched wilderness in Botswana
Adventurer.
and Zambia.
Enver Duminy, CEO of Cape
The 12-day tour begins with a bushfront
Town Tourism, said: “Find Your
lodge in Livingstone, with day two offering
Freedom uses the latest digital
a visit to Victoria Falls and a whitewater raft
technology to immerse viewers
on the Zambezi River.
in unique Cape Town choice-
Day three offers a local boat trip across
driven video experiences. You
the Zambezi to check into the Kwalape
choose your guide. You choose
Safari Lodge in the Chobe National Park,
your adventure. It’s an interactive journey from start to finish.” The interactive game aims to restore confidence in Cape Town
Heading across the Caprivi Strip, guests set up camp on a houseboat on the Okavango Delta, which will explore the Okavango Panhandle past pods of hippos. Day seven features a tour of the Tsodilo Hills, heading to the Moremi Game Reserve in Xakanak for days eight and nine. On day 10, the group explores the flood plains, home to elephants, giraffes and zebras. The home stretch begins with a drive back to Maun for a cultural show before the trip ends on day 12. This 12-day tour starts from £2,570 per
as the city recovers from the
person (not including flights), with places
pandemic.
available to secure with a 10% deposit.
www.capetown.travel
www.explore.co.uk
Image Credits: Adobe Stock
26
S07 TB 08 07 22 Greece & Cyprus_TB 2022 Master template 05/07/2022 12:57 Page 27
GREECE & CYPRUS SUMMER OF SPORTS Clients can enjoy a sporty summer at Olympic Holidays’ choice of resorts. OLYMPIC HOLIDAYS is offering activityfocused breaks in a couple of Cyprus and Greece properties. Aphrodite Hills Tennis Academy, Cyprus Aphrodite Hills Holiday Residences offers an extensive range of luxury villas and apartments all set within a five-star resort in Paphos. Many of the properties overlook the PGA National Cyprus Aphrodite Hills Golf course, while others have views of the sea or mountains. Aphrodite Hills Tennis Academy features 11 professional tennis courts. Professional coaching is also available for all levels and abilities. Olympic Holidays is offering seven nights from £965 per person based on
Airport (other UK airports available).
Olivia from August 1-5, 2022 and
Departures are available on August 24,
August 22-26, 2022. Those travelling to
2022.
Ikos Andalusia will also get to
two adults and two children travelling.
experience two summer courses from
The package includes seven nights’ self
Football Escapes at Ikos Resorts
July 25-29 and August 15-19, 2022. In
catering accommodation in a two
Football Escapes is returning to Ikos
these five-day programmes, children
bedroom apartment with shared pool
Resorts for summer 2022. This year,
aged 5-15 years old, will receive a full
with return flights to Birmingham
Robbie Keane, Ashley Williams, Joe
personalised Rascal kit along with a
Cole, Anton Ferdinand, Billy Wingrove
signed certificate and medal.
and Steve Sidwell will be among the
Olympic Holidays is offering seven
experts hosting celebrity-led sessions at
nights from £909 per person, based on
Celestyal Cruises announces sale
Ikos Olivia in Halkidiki, Greece and Ikos
two adults and two children travelling.
CELESTYAL CRUISES is offering its
coaching sessions will take place at Ikos
Andalusia in Spain. World-class www.olympicholidays.com
‘Biggest Ever Sale’, featuring savings of up to 57% off select 2022 sailings booked from now through July 11, 2022. Prices start from as low as £239 for
Image Credits: Bottom - Gatsby Athens, Top - Olympic Holidays
the three-night "Iconic Aegean" itinerary,
Introducing Gatsby Athens Hotel THE HISTORIC city of Athens unveils its newest luxury hotel, Gatsby Athens. Bringing a new energy to the Greek capital and views of the Acropolis, all rooms provide smart
which is normally priced from £550,
TVs or tablets, Alexa devices, king size beds, walk-in showers, in-room bathtubs, luxury natural
reflecting a saving of up to 57%. The
linen and bathrobes and ortigia amenities.
popular seven-night "Idyllic Aegean" itinerary, which is normally priced from £1,120 has been reduced by 48% to £589. All cruises include the ‘Celestyal AllInclusive Experience’. www.celestyal.com
Gatsby Athens offers stays from £150, based on two people sharing a double standard room on a bed-and-breakfast basis. www.gatsbyathens.com
S07 TB 08 07 22 Greece & Cyprus_TB 2022 Master template 05/07/2022 12:57 Page 28
GREECE & CYPRUS
JULY 08 2022 | travelbulletin.co.uk
Family fun with Angsana Corfu FROM LEARNING to press olive oil to exploring the local lakes and islands, Angsana Corfu has highlighted some family friendly activities around the area. Angsana Corfu, an upscale resort with sweeping views over the twinkling Benitses Bay is one of the best new family friendly
SPL Villas highlights Greece and Cyprus stays
stays in Greece. From its kids club,
SPL Villas, a family run
base to explore Corfu.
independent villa specialist, has
expansive child-friendly amenities and private beach club, it makes for the perfect Visitors can enjoy secluded beaches best
designed for kids. You will also find lazy rivers, waterslides and adventure pools – all
launched to the travel trade, with
reached by boat, Mediterranean hills and
suitable for a fun family day on the island.
choices in both Cyprus and
forests, archaeological sites and the unique
And as one of the greenest islands in
Greece.
UNESCO World Heritage Old Town – with its
Greece, everywhere you turn provides the
One example of a stay is Villa
variety of Venetian, Turkish, French, British,
perfect excuse to get outside and explore –
Elina in Kefalonia. The three-
Italian and German architecture.
from hiking and bird-watching, or
bedroom villa has its own private
For children, there are dozens of great
snorkelling and swimming in the island’s
entrance and parking area,
activities on offer throughout the island. For
private heated pool with Jacuzzi,
younger guests, make sure to visit one of
sun terraces, loungers and
the nearby water parks, some of which
season and €429 per night in high season
parasols and stands in its own
include floating courses, rope swings, slides
on a bed-and-breakfast basis.
and many more water-based adventures
www.angsana.com/en/greece/corfu
2
stunning grounds of 1000m .
crystal clear waters. Rooms start from €159 per night in low
The company offers 10% commission for agents. www.splvillas.com
Fun in the winter sun in Cyprus MERCURY HOLIDAYS is offering Cyprus
Superior Sea View Room when booking a
escapes for those looking to escape the
Sea View Room. This applies to stays from
winter weather this year.
November 1, 2022 to April 30, 2023.
In the winter-season, the Cyprus sun is
Mercury Holidays has also curated a
still shining and the temperature is ideal for
range of no single supplement and solo
quick dips in the sea and al fresco dining
offers, with a 21-night winter stay at five-
but without large groups of tourists in the
star Radisson Beach Resort Larnaca from
In the lap of luxury in Crete
popular spots.
£599 per person (two weeks full board with
ALDEMAR RESORTS Villa Luxury
stay at four-star Elias Beach Hotel from £499
basis), based on two people sharing a
in Crete offers garden, pool or
per person (two weeks half board with a
room. No supplement for single travellers in
seaview facing villas surrounded
third week free on a bed-and-breakfast
selected rooms applies to stays from
by manicured lawns, spacious
basis), based on two adults sharing a room.
November 1 to April 30. The package
verandas and swimming pools.
The package includes flights from London
includes flights from London (other airports
Visitors have access to six
(other airports available). Guests can
available). Guests can upgrade to a Sea
restaurants and three bars, plus
upgrade to a Sea View Room from £10 per
View Room from £6 per person daily or a
a host of theme nights, and for
person daily. Clients can upgrade to a
Garden Pool View Room from £12 per
The company is offering a 21-night winter
a third week free on a bed-and-breakfast
those celebrating a special
person daily. There is free upgrades to a
occasion, private dining is also
Superior Sea View Room when booking a
on offer.
Garden Pool View Room.
www.aldemarknossosvillas.gr
www.mercuryholidays.co.uk
Image Credits: Adobe Stock.Aldemar Resorts, Mercury Holidays, SPL Villas, Mercury Holidays.
28
S07 TB 08 07 22 Greece & Cyprus_TB 2022 Master template 05/07/2022 12:57 Page 29
GREECE & CYPRUS
JULY 08 2022 | travelbulletin.co.uk
29
Windstar Cruises sets course for Greece SMALL SHIP cruise line Windstar Cruises
brand’s history. Our guests and travel
has confirmed its all-suite Star Plus Class
advisors really love the product we created
yacht, Star Pride, took to the seas of Athens
on Star Class.”
for its inaugural sailing. Calling at Gythion,
After sailing around Europe and America
Corfu, Argostoli, Messina, Trapani, and
for the remainder of the year, Star Pride will
Cagliari en route to Barcelona, the ship
return to Greece in April 2023 for the eight-
marked the third and final transformed Star
day ‘A Piece of Greece, a Slice of Sicily &
Plus Class yacht.
the Corinth Canal’ itinerary, sailing from
The ship and its two sister vessels
Barcelona. Prices start from US$3,999 per
underwent major transformations as part of
person for cruise-only and US$4,631 per
GIC The Villa Collection: Greek secluded serenity
a US$250million refresh of the fleet, with
person for all-inclusive. Next spring will also
GIC THE Villa Collection hosts a
Star Breeze debuting in June 2021, Star
see the yacht sail the ‘Aegean Sea Odyssey’
number of secluded villas to
Legend in September 2021, and, finally, Star
and ‘Cappadocia & Aegean Rhapsody’
allow for self-contained and self-
Pride in June 2022.
itineraries across Greece and beyond.
guided escapes across Greece
www.windstarcruises.com
and its islands.
Windstar president Christopher Prelog, said, “We’re grateful to our ownership and
Villa Selene, in Alonissos, can
to our partners for sticking with it, and to
sleep up to five guests across
our customers for their excitement and
two bedrooms, guaranteeing
support of these new products. We are
comfortable furnishings and a
seeing our highest guest satisfaction
private pool for a home-away-
surveys on the new Star Class yachts, with
from-home feel. The
the highest Net Promoter Scores in our
neighbouring Villa Eos can be booked concurrently for larger group holidays. Stays start from £1,362 per person for four people sharing with car hire and flights from London Gatwick on July 22, 2022. Villa Halikounas, in Corfu, offers the authentic island experience, with a pool, garden, and spacious interiors. The villa can sleep up to six guests, with stays starting from £1,005 per person departing on July 18, 2022 (flights from Gatwick and car hire included). a more intimate feel, with a
Paradise renovated at Athena Beach Hotel
picturesque exterior hiding a chic
CONSTANTINOU BROS Hotels unveiled
Mediterranean breakfast in the morning and
an ideal home base for island
new-look rooms in May this year.
an A La Carte model in the evenings.
days. Perseus can sleep up to
There is an additional 10 Elite Class
The Superior Swim-up Room Pool View
interior. The bright villa creates
four guests, with prices from
Superior Swim-up rooms, an adults-only
starts from £155 per night for a minimum
£1,238 per person with flights
zone with a separate pool, sunbathing area
stay of three nights on bed-and-breakfast
and car hire.
and adult pool bar, and the reimagining of
basis.
the Zephyr Restaurant as an adult haven for
www.cbh-cyprus.com
www.gicthevillacollection.com
Image Credits: Constantinou Bros Hotels, Windstar Cruises, The Villa Collection.
Villa Perseus, in Paxos, offers
S07 TB 08 07 22 Greece & Cyprus_TB 2022 Master template 05/07/2022 16:23 Page 30
GREECE & CYPRUS
JULY 08 2022 | travelbulletin.co.uk
Get the Larnaka lowdown with a host of summer updates THE LARNAKA Tourist Board is getting set for summer with a host of news and
Get to know the Travel Bulletin team better by reading their answers to this week's probing question!
events making the region an attractive prospect yet again for those visiting Cyprus this season. The tourist board recently unveiled 'Larnaka Virtual Diving Routes' digitalising six of the city's most popular dive sites in 3D form, allowing guests to navigate
What is the best dish you can cook?
and view suggested routes and other helpful information. Summer will also welcome a host of events this year, including the Fengaros Music Festival (July 28-30) with tickets from 36, Kiti Cultural Summer (August 815) with free admission, and the Zygi Fish Festival (August 27).
Jeanette Ratcliffe Publisher jeanette.ratcliffe@travelbulletin.co.uk Probably a full English Breakfast!
“Summer 2022 is going to be one we celebrate by our shores and in our quaint, traditional villages. The UK travel trade have supported our region and we look to the mainstream UK tour operators, as well as the specialists, to highlight the plethora of interesting places to visit and activities to engage with, which appeal to all ages and offer a balance between contemporary and authentic experiences, in Larnaka and its district. We urge agents to familiarise themselves with our
Mariam Ahmad Editor news@travelbulletin.co.uk Green Thai curry.
comprehensive website that was upgraded just this year and features a host of information and ideas, and we also welcome agents that wish to get in touch if they need any additional information or guidance," said Nana Asmeni-Pavlou, officer for the Larnaka Tourism Board (LTB). Check out all the latest updates at www.larnakaregion.com
Simon Eddolls Sales Director simon.eddolls@travelbulletin.co.uk I do make a good paella.
Sarah Terry Account Manager sarah.terry@travelbulletin.co.uk Pot noodle.
Tim Podger Account Manager - Far East tim.podger@travelbulletin.co.uk Sheperd’s pie.
Corfu welcomes Cook’s Club milestone JUNE 1, 2022 welcomed a milestone for the
Matthew Hayhoe
lifestyle hotel brand Cook's Club, as it opened
Assistant Editor matthew.hayhoe@travelbulletin.co.uk Truffle and mushroom tagliatelle.
its 10th property, Cook's Club Corfu. Hot on the heels of its new build in Ialysos, Rhodes, earlier this year, the new 195-room hotel launched with a 'Feel Free' concept, giving a more modern and upscale twist to the classic all-inclusive concept. Corfu marks the brand's fifth hotel in Greece, and is home to unique additions including swim-up rooms with pools set in
of Cook’s Club Corfu. “We wanted to create a destination for chic boho living, where like-minded people can feel at home, connect and embrace the energy and vibes of the island.” Rooms start from £165 per night for two
the hotel's gardens, all newly refurbished
guests on the 'Feel Free' all-inclusive model,
rooms, and guaranteed island, sea, village or
which includes three meals a day, and a
pool views.
choice of alcoholic and soft drinks.
“We had an instant connection with the Cook’s Club brand,” said Panos Rokas, owner
Melissa Paddock Events Coordinator melissa.paddock@travelbulletin.co.uk
www.cooksclub.com/en/cooks-club-corfugreece
EVENTS events@travelbulletin.co.uk PRODUCTION production@travelbulletin.co.uk CIRCULATION circulation@travelbulletin.co.uk
Image Credits - Top: Adobe Stock, Bottom: Cook’s Club
30
S07 TB 08 07 22 Greece & Cyprus_TB 2022 Master template 05/07/2022 12:57 Page 31
S07 TB 08 07 22 Greece & Cyprus_TB 2022 Master template 05/07/2022 12:57 Page 32
