Selling Travel - March/April 2023

WELLBEING

With health and happiness at its core, Vietnam is leading the way when it comes to holidays that heal

MAGAZINE FOR TRAVEL AGENTS

Morocco

Accessible Travel

Mauritius vs Maldives

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inside this issue All around the world

Trend-watching

06 New Beginnings: The latest hotel openings

08 Airline Sustainability: How agents can champion greener flights

12 Four-sight: How to prevent time wasters

Globe-hopping

14 Luxury Cruising: We look at exclusive small ship sailings

22 My Journey: Saudi Arabia

24 48 hours in... Los Angeles

27 Wellness Vietnam: From healing spas to healthy hobbies

35 Mauritius VS Maldives: How these Indian Ocean favourites compare for different clients

43 Morocco: Mountain escapes and exciting cities in under four hours

Be inspired

46 Accessible Travel: How the travel industry is catering for all

50 My Journey: Healing waters in the Maldives

52 Bright ideas: Accessible Travel

55 How to sell: Accessible Florida

EDITORIAL

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

Steve Hartridge

DEPUTY EDITOR

Jessica Pook

DIGITAL EDITOR

April Waterston

WRITERS

Bev Fearis, Charlotte Flach, Jo

Jeanine Williamson, Julie Baxter, Chloe Bain, Lauren Jarvis

PUBLISHING

PUBLISHERS

Steve Thompson steven.thompson@sellingtravel.co.uk

Sally Parker sally.parker@sellingtravel.co.uk

ADVERTISING MANAGER

Lisa Merrigan lisa.merrigan@sellingtravel.co.uk

CIRCULATION MANAGER

Shani Kunar

MANAGING DIRECTOR

Matt Bonner CEO

Martin Steady

DESIGN & PRODUCTION DESIGNER

Caitlan Francis

PRODUCTION MANAGER

Clare Hunter

PRODUCTION ADMINISTRATOR

Steve Hunter

COVER IMAGE

Drying incense stick in Vietnam

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March/April

Travel champions

As I write this I can see two plane contrails cutting across a brilliant blue sky. The first thought that comes into my mind is 'I wonder where they are going', and the second is the realisation that those whispy white lines are playing a massive part in global warming. For an industry that relies so heavily on air travel, jetting across the world has become second nature and environmental implications are often an afterthought - if that. However, airlines are working hard to minimise their environmental impact in order to achieve net zero carbon emissions across the industry by 2050, and there are some easy ways in which agents can also play a part, from getting your clients to preorder meals to championing greener aircraft. Read more on airline sustainability initiatives on page 8.

Some of these airlines will be at our dedicated Selling Travel Connect: North America event in April, when you can hear more about greener air travel as well as new routes to North America.

Alongside e orts to improve its sustainability credentials, the travel industry is making accessible travel a priority, with airlines, hoteliers, destinations and tour operators adapting their products to be more inclusive to those that require a bit of special attention.

One destination that's championing accessibility is Tourism Tropical North Queensland in Australia, which has hailed 2023 the Year of Accessible Tourism and has added a dedicated Accessibility Hub to its consumer website. Meanwhile, Florida is building an extensive list of accessible travel opportunities that goes beyond just people with mobility issues, with several hotels and attractions accommodating families with children on the autism spectrum. You can read more about this developing sector on page 46. We hope this edition inspires you to champion your own cause, whatever that may be. Enjoy the issue!

Jessica Pook DEPUTY EDITOR

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COSTA MUJERES, CANCUN (MEXICO), PUNTA CANA, CAP CANA (THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC), RIVIERA MAYA (MEXICO) and IBIZA (SPAIN).

Costa Rica

Community spirit

Sustainably-focused ENVI Lodges is to make its international debut in Costa Rica with ENVI The Islita. Set in a secluded cove on the Nicoya Peninsula, the eco lodge will comprise 31 guest units made of canvas and wood, jungle lounge areas, and a holistic wellness centre. At the heart of the property is a local community hub designed to empower small businesses and encourage guests to get to know the local community through culture, art, environment and education programmes. envilodges.com

New Zealand

musiC in the mountains

The ultra-luxury Falcon Brae villa overlooks Kahurangi National Park, at the top of South Island. As well as mountainous 360 views, guests can enjoy a media theatre, ‘Games Den’ outdoor hot tub and a helipad. The owners, both musicians, have designed the Great Room to have excellent acoustics and a grand piano and guitars are available for guests to use. Beyond the villa, guests can hike the private forest, visit wineries and take a Lord of the Rings heli-tour. falconbraevilla.co.nz

Nicaragua surf’s up!

Refurbished using natural materials and now open for bookings is 99 Surf Lodge on the coastline of Popoyo. All six private suites are less than 10 metres from the ocean while the premium Ocean Studio suite also features its own infinity pool. Couples can order a moonlit dinner on the beach, take surf lessons on the neighbouring beach, or venture out to enjoy the wildlife-rich jungles, volcanoes and glassy clear lakes.

99surflodge.com

Flights that don’t cost the earth

From discovering the sweet rasgulla desert in Maharashtra to embracing fjord winds in Québec, to dodging ornate paper lanterns rowing across the Thu Bon river in Hoi An, very few of my most coveted travel experiences would have been possible without air travel.

Paradoxically, whilst flying has long been flagged as a major contributor to climate change, it is also the key to exploring our wonderful planet. travel is what allows us to become global citizens. By travelling we feel more engaged with international politics, more aware of hardships people face around the world, and more appreciative of the natural beauty and fragile ecosystems we so desperately need to protect. however, reducing the carbon footprint and overall environmental impact of aviation remains a critical concern. the aviation industry is widely reported as contributing anywhere between 2-2.5% of total carbon emissions globally, that’s more pollution than most countries. airlines know they need to up their

game to help us all travel in a greener way – and it’s a task they are all, for the most part, taking very seriously.

“We’re embracing a new goal to be 100% green by 2050 by reducing our greenhouse gas emissions,” said scott kirby, chief Executive Officer, United Airlines. “We’ll get there not with flashy, empty gestures, but by taking the harder, better path of actually reducing the emissions from flying.”

Best foot forward the international air transport association (iata) has set a goal to achieve net zero carbon emissions across the industry by 2050. this pledge brings air transport in line with the objectives of the Paris agreement to limit global warming to 1.5°c

“flying sustainably and cutting co2 emissions is a top priority. the aviation sector is working to achieve net zero emissions by 2050 and travellers want to be more aware of their carbon footprint,” said frederic Leger, iata’s senior Vice president for commercial products & services.

key to this is the development of sustainable aviation fuel (saf). saf is a

liquid fuel made from waste oils, fats, non-food crops and municipal waste. it reduces co2 emissions by up to 80% compared to standard fuels. Whilst there’s still progress to be made with saf production – currently there is nowhere near enough available to fuel the whole industry, and what is available costs up to six times more than traditional fuel – iata estimates that over 300 million litres were used in 2022. With adequate expansion in production, iata believes it will be feasible to replace almost all fossil jet fuel with saf over the coming decades. agents can up their sustainability credentials by championing airlines that are supporting this. for example, the international airlines Group (iaG) – the parent company of airlines such as British airways, aer Lingus, iberia and Veuling –has promised to invest $400 million in the development of saf in april 2021, iaG became the first European airline group to commit to powering 10% of all flights with sustainable aviation fuel by 2030. in early 2023, emirates operated its first milestone demonstration flight

April Waterston details how airlines are striving to minimise their environmental impact and discovers how agents can help clients to travel as sustainably as possible

on a Boeing 777-300er, powering one of its engines with 100% saf

And United Airlines has partnered on a new joint venture called Blue Blade Energy to develop and then commercialise a novel saf technology that uses ethanol as its feedstock. The offtake agreement could provide for enough SAF to fly more than 50,000 flights annually between United’s hub airports in chicago and Denver.

Four ways agents can help

Pack light: reducing weight onboard is a top priority for airlines, as ultimately that is how they can limit the amount of fuel needed for each flight. encouraging clients to minimise luggage weight is an easy way to promote more sustainable travel. finnair has calculated that if each passenger were to reduce luggage weight by 5kg, the total reduction could save almost 17,000 tons of co2.

Meal prep: Getting clients to pre-order meals will make a huge difference in terms of food wastage. IATA research has shown the average passenger generates 1.43kg of cabin waste per flight, with 20% of this untouched food and drink. pre-ordering meals means airlines can load the exact amount of food that they need, reducing waste and ultimately limiting the amount of single-use plastics.

Cathay Pacific Catering Services (CPCS) has joined a pilot scheme for food waste collection which will see it transformed into energy and compost, while Japan airlines has introduced the option to skip its inflight meal service in order to reduce food waste. Normalise offsetting: after carbon reduction methods reach their limit, offsetting carbon can mitigate the remaining impacts. Most airlines now offer the option for passengers to offset their CO2 emissions by funding projects that work to reduce greenhouse gases by planting new trees or increasing the energy

efficiency of modes of transport. Choose greener aircraft: agents can champion airlines with a new, fuel-efficient fleet. The latest aircraft models are already miles ahead in fuel efficiency. For example, airBaltic is increasing its fleet of airbus a220-300 aircraft, one of the greenest commercial aircraft in the skies. the airline will add eight aircraft to its 39-strong fleet in 2023.

For clients wanting to know which flights would be most sustainable, agents can log on to iata co2 connect and calculate the footprint of different flight options.

Airlines leading the way

Delta: Delta has partnered with a mexican apparel brand called someone somewhere to create greener amenity kits for its premium Delta one cabin. Working with the Certified B Corporation has created jobs for more than 250 people in five of mexico’s most vulnerable states.

Alaska Airlines: alaska airlines has recently become the first U.S. airline to remove all plastic cups onboard, eliminating more than 55 million plastic cups annually.

Finnair: finnair has removed its inflight retail service. “Onboard and pre-order shopping has become a less important service among our customers,” explained Valtteri helve, head of product Offering at Finnair.

“the decision is part of our goal to reduce the overall weight of the aircraft,” added helve. “it is time to take the next step and discontinue it worldwide.”

Iberia: iberia has launched co2labora, which enables passengers to offset their CO2 emissions through two certified climate projects: one in Guatemala and one in Peru.

Aer Lingus: aer Lingus has replaced plastic with birchwood cutlery, reducing almost 23 tonnes of single-use plastics per year. it also introduced a digital alternative to newspapers and magazines.•

IberIa Is usIng sustaInable materIals onboard

delta’s someone somewhere amenIty kIts

ba Is InvestIng In zero emIssIons aIrcraft

unIted Is commItted to a goal of net zero carbon emIssIons by 2050

“As a mid-haul destination, Israel is the perfect twin-city break”

Pini Shanni, Israel

Israel’s history and culture have broad appeal – which is why it can be recommended to all travellers.

The county’s buzzing gastronomy and nightlife scenes tend to appeal to younger travellers; the Eilat Mountains and the Red Sea provide adventure-based travel options; the seaside city of Eilat is optimal for family time; while the Dead Sea is ideal for travellers interested in wellness-themed breaks.

Tel Aviv is the cosmopolitan capital of Israel, with its numerous beautiful beaches,

Ministry of Tourism

vibrant bars, pubs and clubs, and leading restaurant scene. Jerusalem, on the other hand, has a vast historical background and extensive culture and heritage whilst Eilat, located at the southern tip of the Negev Desert, tends to attract visitors of a more adventurous nature, as well as those looking for a seaside break in the sun.

Visitors can enjoy a city break, a twincity break, or a seaside resort break that includes hiking, cycling and diving.

What’s new

New flights including El Al’s direct flight between Dublin and Tel Aviv, starting March 26, plus recent openings including

the five-star David Kempinski in Tel Aviv, the Golan Heights floating guesthouse on Lake Ram (near Mount Hermon) and three new Browns Hotels in Tel Aviv, are all set to entice visitors this year.

Social and environmental sustainability is a consistent thread in Israeli culture. Israel has a number of new initiatives that include collective and cooperative communities that practice organic farming, recycling and host programmes in eco-tourism.

We’ve now launched our new e-learning program with Travel Uni that covers all the basics on how to sell Israel with confidence, and how to combine the best of the country. israel.travel; israeltravelexpert.com •

No time for time wasters

It’s that age-old question – should we charge a non-refundable deposit for the work involved on a booking before a client confirms? If we did, it would help us determine which customers were serious and which ones were time wasters!

If we are ever suspicious, we will often start with a basic outline itinerary and send that off first to gauge if they’re really interested. We won’t, under any circumstances now, give a price breakdown. It opens up too many questions and you spend your whole time fighting for the last pound.

On the flip side, I was pleasantly surprised this year when a repeat customer told us to keep the deposit for our time spent on a trip he had to postpone. So many hours and expertise go into planning tailor-mades and it is rewarding when clients recognise that.

Ultimately, you can’t beat the added value of a travel agent. We had clients in NZ who would have missed their plane due to a cyclone, but thanks to us and amazing suppliers like Jetset we got the route changed and they weren’t classed as ‘no-shows’. We also use the motto #useatravelagent on our socials now.

I set out to be a virtual agent – that is dealing with clients only by only phone and email rather than face-to-face contact – so do not have the benefit of asking a direct question or reading body language. This prompted my decision to specialise in niche markets, where the client finds it difficult either to find the operators or to get all the details and best prices and availability online. However, my chosen niche, river cruising, has very much gone mainstream now with some operators looking to cut the trade out altogether! Potential clients pushing agents for information and then looking to book direct at the best rate is a problem, but

thankfully many operators do price match. I can often gauge from the first email or phone exchange if a client is serious, and also remind them that not only do they get great pre- and post-travel service by using me but that I will be able to offer a price or product advantage that is not available when booking online. There will always be people who want to show they are smarter than you. My advice is to focus on those who appreciate your skills and expertise.

CRUISE SPECIALIST James Hill Director of GoRiverCruise Worcestershire

We won’t give a price breakdown under any circumstances

My advice is to focus on those who appreciate your skills and expertise

We asked our columnists: How do you deal with clients you suspect are priming you for information before ultimately booking online? Liz prefers face-to-face appointments

THE

Sandy says cruise enquiries are strong

We encourage face-to-face appointments to reduce time wasters

We had a really positive Peaks and it’s great to be busy again with new bookings. It’s a reminder of how important good time management is; for me making lists helps me to prioritise tasks and enquiries.

We encourage as many in-person appointments as possible, to help us get to know the client and reduce time wasters – rather than ping/pong emails back and forth. Every morning there are Facebook messages and emails from ‘midnight keyboard warriors’, many of whom I suspect send the same requests to numerous agents but with no intention of booking through them.

Asking for additional contact details can help to find out who’s serious and who’s just asking for free advice. We can search our database for phone numbers and emails too so can quickly identify repeat customers – who will always get priority –or repeat time wasters!

Due to reports about travel fraud we also have to be on the look out for potential scams. If it’s a too-good-to-be true enquiry we ask for a scan of their passport and address ID before we commit too much of our time.

Time wasters are frustrating. When I had my own agency I was always a bit suspicious if customers came in with a wad of paper. I found the best way to handle this was to be blunt and say “Is that what you have found so far?” and offer to go through some options.

By putting people on the spot they are more likely to be honest with you, plus it is a good opportunity to show off your knowledge and expertise.

Now that I work remotely, dealing with enquiries over the phone makes things more difficult, but luckily most of my bookings now come from repeat clients, who I’ve known since my shop days.

I’m surprised at how many agents have been telling me that cruise enquiries have been strong for 2023. The rush of cruise adverts on TV and cruise programmes seems to be helping.

I will finish by congratulating some new appointments in the sector including Charlotte Sargeson, Flexible Autos; Nicky Yates, Attraction World; Edwina Coppock, Uniworld; Nick Hughes, Princess Cruises and Amanda Leggett, Expedia TAAP. It’s great to see people moving on up in travel.

Anneka helped stranded clients in New Zealand

James says it’s good to have a niche

Next issue: How do you deal with negative and critical feedback from clients?

I’m lucky that most of my bookings come from repeat clients now

``Agents don’t get paid for their time´´

Less is more

Intimate excursions and access to private bays is making smaller ships popular in the luxury market. Jeannine Williamson seeks out these exclusive sailings

As I dip my head beneath the clear waters and kick my fins, a turtle floats languidly beneath me. A second later a sea lion dives past almost touching my arm, the liquid brown eyes on its whiskered face momentarily staring into mine.

I have to make a conscious effort to keep the snorkel mouthpiece clamped between my teeth and not let out a squeal of surprise and delight

In the protected Galapagos Islands marine and land creatures have no fear of humans. Although our guide has given us clear instructions to stay at least a couple of metres away from wildlife, the playful sea lion is clearly unaware of the rule.

It’s one of many exhilarating experiences and the Zodiac is filled with excited chatter as we make our way back to Silver Origin

As we climb onto the marina deck we’re greeted with warm bath robes and steaming cups of Ecuadorian hot chocolate. Later in the day my butler checks in at my suite to ensure I have everything I need.

The 100-passenger Silver Origin is Silversea Cruises’ first-ever destinationspecific ship designed to sail yearround in the Galapagos. It elevates a bucket list sailing into even more of an extraordinary experience and is one of an increasing number of upmarket vessels carrying fewer than 200 passengers.

The perception of luxury comes in many forms, and it’s important for agents to establish what it means to their clients when recommending a cruise.

Dianna Rom, Vice President Sales at Windstar Cruises, says: “We are careful with the word ‘luxury’ at Windstar.

“For some, luxury is the time, space, and freedom to immerse themselves in a destination accessed via a wellappointed ship. For others, luxury is black tie dress codes and ballroom dancing.

“Windstar walks a fine line in this space. On the one hand, we offer a very upscale luxury experience but we don’t offer what some people describe as ‘luxury’.”

At SeaDream Yacht Club, UK Sales Director Natalie Read explains: “Many of our itineraries feature exclusive destinations such as St Barts and Bequia in the Caribbean and the hidden gems

of the South of France and the Italian coastline, as well as overnight stays in some of the best yachting ports and harbours of the world for a more immersive experience. On land we offer yachting land adventures including our new helicopter flight over Montserrat volcano.”

Cruise control

Top selling destinations reported by cruise lines include Alaska, the Caribbean, Tahiti, Greek islands and sailings departing from Venice.

Andrea Stafford, Scenic & Emerald Cruises’ Director of Trade Sales, reports: “The Douro is always incredibly popular, so much so that we’re adding additional dates in December this year. For our ocean product, there is lots of interest for new itineraries in the Caribbean, where the brand-new Emerald Sakara repositions in the autumn.”

Chris Townson, MD UK and Europe for Uniworld, says: “I would choose a luxury cruise over a big-ticket holiday because of the ease of the experience and the expertise that has gone into it. Every aspect has been carefully curated, from the airport transfers to the entertainment, dining and excursions and your accommodation travels with you so you only have to unpack once. And if you’re travelling in one of our suites, your butler will even do that for you!”

On the horizon are upmarket hotel groups moving into the cruise sector. Four Seasons launches the first of three 190-passenger superyachts in 2025, with Aman Resorts unveiling a 100-passenger vessel the same year. Offering the ‘lifestyle’ of the brands at sea, they’re ideal for new-tocruise customers already familiar with the hotels, perfect for special occasions such as honeymoons and they can be packaged with a land stay at one of the properties.

Be it the barefoot laid-back appeal of an all-inclusive sailing yacht, Champagne on tap or glamorous dress-up nights, there’s a cruise out there for every luxe-loving client.

What’s new: Ocean

Itineraries: Indonesian expedition cruise operator SeaTrek Sailing Adventures has two new seven-night family-friendly cruises from Bali to Komodo, aboard the 22-passenger sailing ship Ombak Putih

ScEnic EcLiPSE offErS hELicoPTEr ExcurSionS in grEEcE coSy firE PiT onboArd SiLvEr origin

dining onboArd unforgETTAbLE TrAvEL S ELySium ShiP

EmPEror PEnguinS on A QuArk ExPEdiTionS cruiSE

DAVID MERRON

Windstar is rolling out a plantbased menus on all its ships.

Ships: Unforgettable Greece, part of Unforgettable Travel, is deploying a recently refurbished boutique ship as part of its 2023 island-hopping cruise programme. Amenities on The Elysium, which carries 43 passengers, include a spa and complimentary yoga and pilates classes.

Expedition: Swan Hellenic’s third and largest ship SH Diana features multiple observation points to provide the 192 passengers with the best views of wildlife and scenery. Following a refit, True North has relaunched True North II, which has five adventure boats and a helicopter, and sails along Australia’s Kimberley coast.

What’s new: River

Itineraries: Uniworld has expanded its family-friendly Generations programme with new sailings in Egypt aboard the River Tosca and has a new cruise and rail journey through India partnering with the opulent Maharajas’ Express.

Ships: For clients looking for contemporary luxury on the Mississippi, American Cruise Lines has the 175-passenger American Serenade, sold through Fred. Holidays. The operator also sells Amadeus River Cruises where the new generation 162-passenger Amadeus Riva has a split-level sun deck which remains open even when sailing under low bridges.

AmaWaterways’ second Nile ship, AmaLilia, launches in 2024 with facilities including a hair salon and nail bar.

Top luxury sailings

La Dolce Vita: Go Italian style on Emerald Cruises’ new Emerald Sakara, the line’s second 100-passenger superyacht. The six-night Highlights of Southern Italy sailing visits the picturesque town of Otranto, known as ‘the Far East of Italy’ and Amalfi, with a gelato tasting in Sorrento.

Amazing Arctic: The 199-passenger Ultramarine, the newest ship in the Quark Expedition fleet, takes polar sailings to new heights. Two helicopters allow passengers to experience new destinations that are only accessible by air and enjoy breath-taking aerial perspectives of the polar regions.

Captivating Croatia: Purpose-built for exploring the coastline of Croatia, APT’s Princess Eleganza carries just 34 passengers and the sparkling Adriatic sea is just a jump away. Seven-night cruises sail between the walled city of Dubrovnik and Opatija and visit pretty Dalmatian Islands such as Krk.

Boutique barges: Akin to a floating house party, European Waterways’ luxury barges carry up to 20 passengers and can be individually chartered for groups of family and friends. Meandering slowly through nine European countries, including the UK, France, Italy and the

Netherlands, each barge has its own chef, guide and hostesses.

Sail in the South Pacific: Capture the essence of French Polynesia while the trade winds fill the sails of Windstar’s Wind Spirit. This year the four-masted sailing yacht, accommodating 148 guests, sails on six- to 16-night sailings in this exotic region with authentic experiences including Polynesian dancing and snorkelling for black pearls.

Where to book it

SILVERSEA – 0844 251 0837

A seven-day alternating round-trip San Cristobal cruise on Silver Origin around the Galapagos Islands is priced from £9,800pp, including transfers, flights, drinks, excursions and gratuities, based on a July 15 departure. Pre- and postcruise extensions can also be booked in destinations including Quito, Machu Picchu and the Ecuadorian rainforest. silversea.com •

“I would choose a luxury cruise over a big-ticket holiday because of the ease of the experience and the expertise that has gone into it - and you only have to unpack once”

chris Townson, uniworld

uniworLd’S rivEr ToScA SAiLing ThE niLE

four SEASonS iS duE To LAunch iTS firST SuPEryAchT in 2025

SAunA wiTh A viEw onboArd SwAn hELLEnic’S Sh diAnA

AmAdEuS rivA SAiLS ThE dAnubE

Tennessee Theatre

The Tennessee Theatre in Knoxville is designed to impress. Dubbed ‘the South’s most beautiful theatre,’ the interior features Spanish-Moorish design with French-style chandeliers, Italian terrazzo flooring and Asian patterns. What started in 1928 as a movie theatre is now a performing arts centre, hosting music concerts, vintage films, dances, and Broadway shows. tennesseetheatre.com

Grand Ole Opry

A Country music rite of passage and a Nashville must, the Grand Ole Opry has seen both rising stars and country music legends perform for almost 100 years. A two-hour live show is broadcast each Saturday, with artists showcasing country music’s past, present and future. Jason Isbell, Carrie Underwood, Keith Urban, Taylor Swift and Dolly Parton have all performed on the famous stage. opry.com

Right notes in

Tennessee

Globe hopping

six of the best / 17

Overton Park Shell

Said to have held “the first-ever rock & roll show,” when a young Elvis Presley took to the stage in July 1954, the Overton Park Shell in Memphis has served as the home of country blues ever since. Now one of the few bandshells left standing in the country, Overton Park Shell hosts a signature series of free concerts every year as well as regular shows under the stars. overtonpark.org

Tivoli Theatre

Another theatre with impressive domed ceilings and opulent design is the Tivoli Theatre in Chattanooga. Built in 1921 by renowned architect Reuben H. Hunt, it still offers everything from silent movies to Broadway blockbusters and is the home of the Chatanooga Symphony and Opera Association. Step back in time and enjoy Chattanooga’s historic but stillpremiere entertainment venue. tivolichattanooga.com

The Down Home

Described as an “eclectic music room,” the Down Home in Johnson City is an intimate space that attracts local acts and national stars. Its pride and joy is an excellent sound system suspended from the ceiling which is enhanced by a room wrapped in sleek oak wood. The venue has a ‘come as you are’ attitude and is also known for its theatre, poetry slams and all night parties. downhome.com

The Caverns

For something truly unique, The Caverns in Grundy County features an amphitheatre inside an underground cave. The venue hosts concerts for up to 1,200 people standing or 850 seated. Complete with prehistoric acoustic qualities, shows are hosted in the Big Mouth Cave, which dates back 25,000 years. Tours of the 8,000 feet cave system are also available during the day. thecaverns.com

Tennessee has an impressive heritage when it comes to music and its iconic venues continue to host larger than life concerts. Jessica Pook rounds up some of the best

Sustainable Attractions in

Daytona Beach

Visit The Marine Science Center

Witness seabird and sea turtle rehabilitation up close, get hands-on in a teaching lab and explore exhibit galleries at the Marine Science Center. The centre hosts environmental education programmes so that visitors can learn about the region’s marine ecosystems and how to conserve them. Guests can also see the process for releasing birds and turtles back into the wild at the on-site hospital.

Join an eco-tour

An abundance of eco-friendly activities await off the coast of Daytona’s white sand beach. Climb aboard the Ponce Inlet Watersports eco tour boat for a 90-minute dolphin and manatee tour. Cruising the intracoastal waterways between Daytona Beach and New Smyrna Beach, there’s also a chance to spot sting rays, shore birds, and sea turtles. Kayaking and paddle boarding eco tours are led by experienced guides.

Fly through the trees

Embrace the adrenalin rush as you zip from tree to tree at Daytona Beach Zipline

Adventure. The courses are woven into the treetops of Tuscawilla Park, fully integrated with the environment. Visitors will also navigate their way across dancing logs, tight wires, swinging bridges and wobbly steps. Watch out for flora and fauna not found on the ground and views of the park’s well-known disc golf course.

Hiking and biking

Over 70 miles of hiking and biking trails are begging to be conquered. Ecoenthusiasts will find that the Daytona Beach area is rich in natural treasures, with lush botanical and tropical diversity. Cycling along the beach is a must-do experience, with the hardpacked sand allowing cyclists to take in a scenic ride of the 23-mile coastline and its wildlife. Renting a bike for the day- or week- is simple.

Go bird spotting

Daytona Beach is a hotspot for bird watching, Join environmental specialists on Mondays and Fridays at the Lyonia Environmental Center for a ‘Guided Scrub Stroll’ through Lyonia Preserve. Frank Rendon Park is famous for its variety of shorebirds, while Lake Woodruff is a migratory bird refuge, home to 215 species. Other top spots include Boardman Pond along the Ormond Scenic Loop and Trail.

Take a dip at a natural spring

Year-round temperatures of 72 degrees make these natural springs a must for wellness. At De Leon Springs, wade the shallows or venture to a depth of up to 30 feet at the ‘spring boil’. Keen swimmers can attempt nine laps to boast they’ve swum a mile. There’s also The Fountain of Youth Eco/ Heritage tour, departing four times daily. The 50-minute trip includes a history lesson told by a local guide.

From brushes with marine life, to cycling pristine sands, Daytona Beach is making sure travellers can tick off bucket list experiences, without compromising the natural environment, says Charlotte Flach

INVITATION

Selling Travel and the Tenerife Tourism Corporation would like to invite you to learn all about the largest of Spain’s Canary Islands on April 25, 26 & 27, 2023.

Join us in Manchester, Glasgow and London for your chance to connect with up to 10 Tenerife suppliers.

The evening will consist of catching up over refreshments, agent speed dating with suppliers and a prize draw.

Details: 25 April at Midland Hotel, Manchester

26 April at Citation, Glasgow

27 April at Tanner Warehouse, London

Places are limited so please RSVP asap to secure your place.

RSVP: sellingtravel.co.uk/training-events

CONNECT

Summer Festivals and Events in

Québec

From Jazz to Indigenous drumming to the colour and joy of Pride, a host of annual celebrations and events abound in this festival-loving province, says Charlotte Flach

Festival International de Jazz de Montréal

(June 29 to July 8)

Every summer music lovers flock to downtown Montréal for the Festival International de Jazz de Montréal. Some 3,000 musicians treat audiences to live concerts around the Quartier des Spectacles, most of which are free. The festival continues to be a springboard for outstanding musical talent from Québec and further afield. montrealjazzfest.com

Grands Feux Loto-Québec

(July - September)

Every Thursday from the end of July through to early September the skies of Québec City light up during Grands Feux Loto-Québec. From the banks of St. Lawrence River, visitors can watch the whizzing pyrotechnical display against the backdrop of the impressive Fairmont Le Château Frontenac. There are five categories of tickets, making the event suitable for all budgets. lesgrandsfeux.com

Wendake International Pow Wow

(June 30 to July 2)

This free annual powwow held in late June and early July is a way for Aboriginal people to affirm their culture through drum competitions, First Nations cuisine, themed conferences, handicraft exhibitors, tastings, talks, children’s activities and more. Attendees hear from the First Nations and Inuit and learn what it means to be Indigenous in modern-day Québec. tourismewendake.ca

Le Festif! de Baie-SaintPaul

(July 20 to 29)

Le Festif! de BaieSaint-Paul is a festival of music and street performance arts spread over more than 32 sites in the heart of Baie-SaintPaul’s downtown area, Charlevoix. A must for Québec music lovers, it now welcomes the greatest artists from Québec and abroad. Throughout the weekend, festival goers will see more than 110 performers and attend up to 130 shows! lefestif.ca

Festival dété de Québec

(July 6 - 16)

Early July marks the start of Festival dété de Québec, Canada’s largest outdoor music event, along the plains of Abraham in Québec City. The festival presents a string of international stars alongside emerging artists, with a total of 300 shows over the course of 11 days. Day tickets start from CAD$60, right up to CAD$820 for Gold Front Stage Zone passes, giving up close access to performers. feq.ca

Montréal Pride

(August 3 to 13)

One of Montréal’s biggest annual parties, Montréal Pride features a rainbow of international musicians and drag queens, endless partying in the Gay Village quartier (in full effect on Community Day) and a powerful moment of silence during the Parade commemorating the 2SLGBTQ+ community’s history. Finish the celebrations at the closing outdoor T-Dance set from some of the world’s top DJs. fiertemtl.com

Time travel in Saudi Arabia

Discovering ancient civilizations and futuristic 'green' cities, Lisa Merrigan is wowed by the Middle East’s 'newest' old destination

Towering sandstone rocks and burnt orange desert stretch as far as the eye can see. It’s neverending – and not by accident. Blending into the landscape around me, hidden in plain sight, is a building completely encased by mirrors, each one reflecting this otherworldly place infinitely.

Translating as 'reflection' in Arabic, Maraya is the largest mirrored building in the world. The spaceship-esque concert hall has hosted performances from international artists that include Alicia Keys, Enrique Iglesias and Westlife – just one of the ways that Saudi Arabia is trying to embrace mainstream tourism.

Saudi Arabia is somewhere I never thought I would get to visit and so, as I swapped snowy London for sand dunes, I was both excited and unsure of what to expect from this mysterious land.

But that's the beauty of travel and it is impossible not to be curious about a country which only opened its doors to tourism in 2019.

Currently, tourism is centred around AlUla in the northwest of the country, a site referred to as ‘the world’s largest open air museum' – and for good reason.

Displaying 200,000 years of human legacy, AlUla is brimming with UNESCO heritage sites including Hegra which is part of the Nabataean Kingdom (think Petra in Jordan). Standing among the hundreds of tombs, where so few have stood before, is a humbling feeling.

The history lesson continues in Dadan, which served as a burial site for wealthy

families in the ninth century. It’s hard to believe that, at 50 meters above ground, these ‘Lion Tombs’ were carved by hand. But AlUla’s most iconic geological formation is Elephant Rock. Sunken seating at the base allows us to take in the full scale of the three-storey-high boulder and, as the sun sets, the rock glows fiery red before darkening skies create the perfect setting for a night of stargazing.

Forward thinking

Since being here I’ve learnt that Saudi is 'a tale of two halves'. You are first encouraged to look back at its ancient history before being invited to discover how it is building for the future. Nowhere is this juxtaposition more evident than The Line. One of the most audacious urban developments ever, The Line is a planned 'city' that will run through the mountains of NEOM to the Red Sea in a perfect single 170km-long straight line. It is being designed to house nine million people, without roads, cars or emissions, and will run on 100% renewable energy with 95% of land preserved for nature.

The first phase of the project is due to be finished by 2030.

Part of the Saudi Vision 2030 – a strategy to further promote tourism to the country – is construction of the Diriyah Gate project, an ambitious $20 billion heritage and tourism development which, when finished, will become a hub for education, recreation, culture, retail and hospitality with museums, shopping, restaurants and hotels at its centre.

And it doesn’t stop there for the kingdom has its sights set on building the world’s tallest skyscraper, Jeddah Tower, which is expected to reach 3280ft high, dwarfing Dubai’s Burj Khalifa. Our accommodation, although not futuristic, was in keeping with the modern theme. I was particularly wowed by the new Habitas, which offers 96 luxurious and sustainable tents in a desert oasis setting. Guests look like they are on a film set as they lounge poolside against a stunning backdrop of sandstone cliffs.

Embracing Arabia

It’s no secret that Saudi is an ultraconservative country and while rules are relaxed within hotels, tourists are expected to dress modestly in public.

Men wear a white throbe, an anklelength shirt that covers their arms, which is paired with a chequered headdress.

Women usually wear a black abaya (a flowy overcoat) over their clothes with a hijab (headscarf) and a burka, covering their face. As our group quickly realises, the rules for expats are a bit more lax, but nevertheless respect for the local culture is expected and extremely important.

After an hour-long flight from AlUla we arrive in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia’s capital, which is a hub for shopping, entertainment and business and also teeming with restaurants which tempt

us with authentic dishes and blends of traditional spices. Seated on the floor, our shoes off, we are served some of the most delicious local dishes that come with the welcoming hospitality that we have become used to since being in Saudi.

We proceed to the UNESCO heritage site of Diriyah, its traditional mud-brick architecture and winding alleyways making us lose track of time. This 'must see' old city is 20km from the centre of Riyadh and is where the Saudi dynasty began in 1727.

The trip finishes in style with exclusive access to the new Alfursan Lounge at the King Abdulaziz International Airport (KAIA) in Jeddah. The lounge is open for international flights only and access is given to Saudi Airlines'' business and firstclass passengers.

Despite still being somewhat newand for some controversial territory for travellers – there’s no denying that Saudi Arabia is pulling out all the stops for tourism and is determined to find a way to future-proof its appeal to travellers while carefully embracing its unrivalled and unique history. •

Book it with... Elegant Resorts

Elegant Resorts offers a four-night stay at Banyan Tree AlUla in a Dune One Bedroom Villa, including breakfast, economy flights with Saudia Airlines, private car transfers & UK lounge passes, from £4,015pp, based on September 9 departure. elegantresorts.co.uk

Maraya concert hall is the largest mirrored building in the world

Globe hopping

Star-struck

Los Angeles

Combining celeb hotspots with historic music venues, arty neighbourhoods and beachside living, Los Angeles promises to keep visitors on their toes, says Jessica Pook

Day 1: Stars in their eyes

Morning: Start with breakfast at Urth in leafy West Hollywood. Sit on the outside patio and watch shoppers zigzag between stores on Melrose Avenue. Time to swap the designer gear for gymwear ready for a hike up Runyon Canyon. Not only does this offer an amazing bird’s eye view over LA but there’s also every chance of running into movie stars such as Emma Stone, Channing Tatum or Natalie Portman.

Afternoon: A stay in La La Land wouldn’t be complete without ticking off the Hollywood Walk of Fame where over 2,500 stars line the street on Hollywood Boulevard. Continue the celeb

spotting with a drive around Beverley Hills and marvel at the grand mansions or take a pit stop at Mondrian Los Angeles for a chic poolside drink with views of the city.

Evening: Start a music-themed evening with a stop at Amoeba Music, the world’s largest independent record store with over one million new and used items and free weekly live music. Then take in the buzzing atmosphere of the Sunset Strip before grabbing a red vinyl booth at Rainbow Bar & Grill – a favourite of Led Zeppelin and Alice Cooper – and tuck into American or Italian fare. Then head over to historic music venue Whiskey a Go-Go for more rock and roll.

Book it with... Intrepid Travel

An 11-day Real LA to San Francisco tour includes time spent in LA. The trip is priced from £1,615pp and includes accommodation and transport. Fly direct to LA from London Heathrow with Delta from £442pp. intrepidtravel.com; delta.com

Day 2: Art at its heart

Morning: Offering more than 50 food stalls, the Grand Central Market has been a hub of bustling activity since 1917. Grab an egg sandwich from Eggslut before heading to the Broad, home to world-renowned collection of contemporary art including two Infinity Mirror Rooms by Yayoi Kusama. Afternoon: Leave the city behind for an afternoon at Venice beach and watch rollerbladers zip along the famous Ocean Front Walk. Or head north to Santa Monica beach, home to the historic Santa Monica Pier and the perfect setting for a bike ride before stopping for a lunch of fresh seafood.

Evening: Discover LA’s street art scene with a self-guided walking tour of Shepard Fairey’s most iconic murals or pay homage at memorial walls for Kobe Bryant and Nipsey Hussle. Creative types will love The Arts District, which has transformed from an industrial district to a buzzing neighbourhood home to art galleries, ceramic studios and cultural attractions as well as bustling bars, breweries and eateries. Head to Arts District Brewing Company, an expansive beer hall with over 30 rotating beers, cocktails and wine, to try unique beers paired with house burgers. There’s also bar games and Skee ball. •

Murals in the arts District

Biking at Venice Beach

hollywooD walk of faMe

View froM the top of runyon canyon

FLY IN STYLE WITH DELTA ONE SUITES .

NONSTOP TO LOS ANGELES .

Delta’s daily service starts 26 March 2023, operated by Airbus A330-900neo featuring all our four signature products including Delta Premium Select and Delta One® suites. Scan to learn more.

In summer Scintillating Ontario

Canada’s most diverse province explodes with fun, excitement and spectacular festivals in the summer months. Check out these 'must do' experiences

From vibrant communities and majestic waterfalls to waterbased adventure, Ontario’s distinctive cities and regions brim with energy in the summer months.

Iconic Niagara Falls

Summer is the prime time to marvel at the breathtaking Niagara Falls and nearby Niagaraon-the-Lake. Take to the skies for aerial views of the falls with Niagara Helicopters or sample local vintages at over 100 distinctive wineries. Niagara City Cruises takes you on a journey of a lifetime; feel the incredible power (and the mist!) of one of the world's most stunning natural wonders. Be immersed in interactive exhibits at the newly restored historic Niagara Parks Power Station, including a tunnel to an observation deck at the edge of the falls.

Culture and cuisine in Toronto

As one of the most multicultural cities in the world, Toronto is a foodie’s dream, filled with unique and eclectic neighbourhoods. Celebrate the culinary skill and artistry of Toronto chefs at MICHELIN-starred restaurants. Explore bustling Kensington Market, which overflows with vintage boutiques, mom and pop shops and quirky fusion food. Visit historic St. Lawrence Market, one of Canada’s oldest markets – take a guided gourmet tour and be sure to try a Peameal Bacon sandwich!

Majestic Muskoka

Popular for its beauty, charming small towns, and crystal clear waters, Muskoka is a perfect destination for your clients' summer adventure. Nearby Algonquin Provincial Park provides the perfect blend of stunning nature and diverse wildlife. Rent a kayak or canoe and explore the interior of Ontario’s most famous park – if you are lucky, you’ll spot moose. Elsewhere, a Bog to Bottle Tour at Muskoka Lakes Farm and Winery is so good it's been designated a 'Signature Canadian Experience’.

Canadian celebrations in Ottawa

Ottawa really comes to life in the summer with a host of outdoor activities (including kayaking in the heart of the city!), openair festivals and much more.

A reflection of Ottawa’s laid-back vibe is the weekly (free!) summer yoga session every Wednesday on Parliament Hill. And Ottawa is the place to celebrate Canada Day. Each July 1, join Canadians decked out in red and white and enjoy the stunning fireworks display on Parliament Hill.

high above Niagara falls with Niagara helicopters

toroNto's lakeside skyliNe

caNoeiNg the geNtle waters of muskoka

ottawa kNows how to throw a summer party

“

I’m not sure I’ve thought this through,” I think to myself as I enter the dark room, my fellow travellers following me inside. “I can’t sing.”

I’m at the Alma Resort in Cam Ranh, an up-and-coming coastal area of Vietnam with pristine beaches and beautiful hotels. My one-bedroom villa with private pool is so close to the sea I could skim a pebble into it; my spa treatment that day has fixed any aches and pains.

Now, kneeling in front of a machine in the resort’s own Karaoke Room, I’m wondering why I was so eager to do this. Where is Gareth Malone when you need him? He would happily recall the benefits of a good old sing-song, from boosting mood and immunity to improving memory function. The Vietnamese would

East of Eden

take it over a night in the pub any day. I begin with a duet hoping that someone will become the Elton to my Kiki – they do; and it feels great. One by one my fellow travellers take to the mic – some with voices like angels; others going for it with gusto. We reluctantly call it a night at 01.00; huge smiles on our faces, laughter in our bellies. If that’s not food for the soul, then I don’t know what is.

Hitting the high note

If Covid taught us anything, it’s the value of self-care, with exercise, nutritious food, and a good old scream, cry or sing-song (remember those Italian balconies?) key to a healthy existence. And this isn’t just at home, with more holidaymakers shunning a fly and flop in favour of a wellness

retreat or hotel with a fabulous spa. In Vietnam, multi-award-winning TIA Wellness Resort was the first to coin the term ‘spa-inclusive’ with two complimentary 80-minute treatments per day per

A healthy diet and deep connection with nature are just some of the reasons why Vietnam is a top pick for a wellness holiday, says Good Spa Guide Editor Jo Gardner

nature abounds in Can tho

Paddling against a baCkdroP oF towering CliFFs at trang an ninh binh

guest included in the nightly rate.

“Vietnam is a great choice for a wellness trip thanks to its favourable climate and 3,000km coastline,” says Dan Wilcock, Senior Product Executive at Audley Travel.

“It offers world-class beaches, national parks, hot springs and mud baths, as well as luxury wellness retreats surrounded by nature,” he adds.

“We are seeing more resorts opening to support wellbeing,” says CEO of the Vietnam Tourism Advisory Board, Trần Trọng Kiên.

“Most have fantastic spas and dedicated spaces for meditation, a Bhuddist practice popular in Vietnam.”

Sport is becoming more important, too, he continues, “with new hiking, running and biking routes opening up. And the Vietnamese diet of rice, vegetables and spices is healthy and delicious.”

What’s new

New lift: Bamboo Airways has launched new routes from Gatwick Airport

to Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. The routes are operated by the airline’s new fleet of Boeing A787-9 Dreamliners, with three classes: Business, Premium Economy and Economy. bambooairways.com

Help for agents: The Vietnam Tourist Board is set to launch its long-awaited training hub this year, with e-newsletters, training modules and fam trips aimed at helping agents sell holidays to the country. The hub is part of the tourist board’s goal to attract one million visitors to the country each year from 2025.

Spa time: Alma Resort in Cam Ranh has recently unveiled a new menu at Le Spa following the appointment of a new spa manager. The menu includes signature treatments with names like Reset, Recover and Rejuvenate; facials; four-handed massages; hot stone therapy; and treatments for children. alma-resort.com

Accommodation: The Lux Collective is set to open a luxury, over-the-water property in Vietnam on Phu Quoc Islands in

2024, the first of its kind in the country. Luxnam Phu Quoc will offer 126 villas, four pools, several restaurants, and a comprehensive spa and fitness centre. theluxcollective.com

The Waldorf Astoria group is set to debut in Vietnam with the Waldorf Astoria Hanoi. Slated to open in 2025, the conversion of the Hilton Hanoi Opera will offer 187 re-imagined rooms and suites, four dining options and holistic therapies at the Waldorf Astoria Spa. hilton.com/en/waldorf-astoria

Nobu Hotels is set to debut in Vietnam in 2025 with a luxury hotel at the top of the eye-catching 43-storey Denang City Centre podium, overlooking My Khe Beachfront. As well as 200 rooms, including 18 suites, the hotel will feature a rooftop bar and lounge and an extensive wellness and fitness facility. nobuhotels.com

Top wellness experiences

Nature on tap: visit Phu Quoc Island

Known for its long sandy beaches,

relax the mind with a sPa treatment

exPlore the riCe terraCes with a loCal guide traditional Vietnamese Fishing boat

hiking in hilly saPa

CuC Phuong national Park

turquoise waters, dense rainforest, marine sanctuary and national park – where visitors come to hike – the Vietnamese island of Phu Quoc was voted the world’s leading nature reserve by the World Travel Awards 2022, beating Antigua, Zanzibar, Reunion Island and Scotland’s Isle of Skye.

The berry best: check into Sailing Club Signature Resort Phu Quoc

A Berryplus Antioxidant Infusion treatment at the Sailing Club Signature Resort Phu Quo spa is said to be an ultra-oxygenating, anti-aging treatment based on vitamin-rich super berries and plant cell cultures which rejuvenates and renews. The treatment is followed with a massage. sc-signaturephuquoc.com/spa/

Water, water everywhere: cruise the Mekong Delta

Nothing feeds the soul like a meander down the narrow channels of the jungle on a tour of the Mekong Delta with Abercrombie & Kent. Taking place on traditional wooden vessels with a dozen

or so sleeper cabins, travellers can spot otters, crocodiles and rare birds in the rich ecosystem; and dine at floating night markets. abercrombiekent.co.uk

Clean, green air: head north to the rice paddies

Most of Vietnam’s rice is grown in flooded fields rather than dry land, making it a green spectacle worth heading north for. Built by the H’mong ethnic minority, Mu Cang Chai’s stepped paddies cover 2,000 hectacres, stretching as far as the eye can see. Holidaymakers wishing to roll up their sleeves can book a Hands-on Rice Growing Tour with Audley Travel audleytravel.com

Mud glorious mud: try cave canyoning at Phong Nha Ke National Park Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is a playground for adventurers, with over 104kms of ancient limestone caves and underground rivers to explore. Step into the limestone cliffs for canyoning and tubing – including the opportunity to float in a mud-filled cavern deep inside – or seek

out Phong Nha Cave, the world’s largest. Food for the soul: book a cycling food tour of Hoi An With its network of canals and cobbled streets, the tiny town of Hoi An is as quaint as they come.

Cycle through the colourful streets on a foodie tour with Luxperia to sample local flavours at back-street, family-run restaurants and cafes before giving it a go in a cooking class run by a local chef. luxperia.com/vietnam

Where to book it

HeAltH ANd FItNeSS trAvel

Health and Fitness Travel offers a seven-night Wellness Inclusive at TIA Wellness Resort from £1,585pp. Price includes daily breakfast, return transfers and a wellness programme. Separate direct flights from London Heathrow to Hanoi with Vietnam Airlines are priced from £418pp, departing May 16.

healthandfitnesstravel.com •

natural and herbal remedies are used in sPa treatments golden bridge in the bà nà hills resort

the Vietnamese diet is PaCked with greens lantern-lit streets oF hoi an

CONNECT

Get to know Canada and the USA at our dedicated Selling Travel

Connect: North America event on April 17 & 18.

Join us in London and Manchester for your chance to connect with a host of tourists boards, airlines and hotels.

The evening will consist of catching up over refreshments, agent speed dating with suppliers and a prize draw.

Details: 17 April at Tower Suites, London 18 April at Manchester Hall, Manchester

Places are limited so please RSVP asap to secure your place.

Meet with: Delta Air Lines, Virgin Atlantic, Brand USA, Rocky Mountaineer, Nova Scotia Tourism, Air Canada, Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau, WestJet, Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau, St Pete/Clearwater, Sun Peaks, British Airways/America Airlines and more...

RSVP: sellingtravel.co.uk/training-events

Calgary’s

Culinary Icons

A rare find

Alberta beef is known around the world for its unparalleled flavour and quality, so much so that it’s sometimes referred to as Cow Town. Steeped in ranching history, Alberta’s topquality beef is the product of rich grassland and the care of dedicated farmers. Beef is hailed as one of Alberta’s Seven Signature Foods – the others are bison, Saskatoon berries, Red Fife wheat, canola, honey and root vegetables. Where to try it: For a dose of old-school charm, make a reservation at Caesar’s Steak House to try out their top-secret recipe. Modern Steak offers a trendier vibe, while the award-winning CHARCUT Roast House in downtown Calgary is known for its locally sourced urban-rustic cuisine.

Customised cocktails

The Caesar or “Bloody Caesar” was invented in Calgary in 1969 and consists of vodka, clamato juice, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, ground pepper and a lime and celerysalt rim. This proudly Canadian cocktail has exploded in popularity since its inception, with build-your-own Caesar bars popping up throughout the country. Order it classic, extra spicy, muddy or customise with pickle juice and horseradish or flavoured vodkas. Where to try it: For a tried-and-true strippedback classic head to the Westin Hotel. Feeling adventurous? Check out Cleaver, for a behemoth of garnishes including fried

chicken, a jalapeño waffle, jalapeño corn dog, beef slider, pepperoncini and maple syrup. If you want to build your own cocktail, hit up the Caesar bar at the Beltliner.

Sweet and spicy

Ginger beef is a favourite on Chinese menus all over Calgary. A good batch has the perfect ratio of beef to batter and a helping of sweet and savoury sauce. The original recipe was crafted in the 1970s by George Wong, who arrived in Calgary from Hong Kong and opened The Silver Inn Restaurant, which was popular with locals in Calgary until it closed in 2022. To satisfy his Canadian clientele Chef Wong dusted off a beef recipe that was a hit when he served it in the United Kingdom. Where to try it: If you’re looking for a milder version of ginger beef, you can’t go wrong with Central Grand’s recipe. For a kick, Silver Dragon’s version comes with a “spicy” label. Or, check out the Chinese Cultural Centre, where you’ll find a treasure trove of authentic dishes.

A good SteAk iS guArAnteed in CAlgAry

CAlgAry hAS A diverSe CulinAry SCene

Pouring the PerfeCt CAeSAr

Silver drAgon iS known for itS tASty ginger beef

The foodie scene in Calgary, Alberta, is always evolving but, like every city, it has some menu staples that are a must try

Why sell it

In a bid to shake off its reputation as a package holiday destination, Majorca has been incentivising hoteliers to upgrade their product in recent years, so the number of four- and five-star hotels on the island has doubled in the last decade. Since 2012, Palma-based Meliá Hotels International, has invested €250 million in the resort of Magaluf alone, so that 70% of its hotel beds there are now four-star and above. In nearby Punta Negra, Mandarin Oriental will open a new beach resort in 2024, while in the compact capital, Palma, upscale boutique hotels and Michelin-starred restaurants are regularly popping up, all helping to put Majorca on the luxury tourism map.

Who to sell to

The largest of Spain’s Balearic islands, Majorca is blessed with a Mediterranean climate and 340 miles of glorious coastline, making it an easy sell to beach lovers. But it’s much more than that. Those looking to get away from the crowds can explore the rural centre, with vineyards, sleepy villages, farmhouses or fincas, some converted into rustic retreats and excellent restaurants. The cobbled streets and squares of Palma provide enough cultural, historic, retail and foodie delights for a long weekend break

Luxury

Majorca

What to sell

Giving Ibiza a run for its money, Majorca has a sophisticated beach club scene. Mostly located within easy reach of Palma, these clubs provide exclusive havens with pools, wellness treatments, upscale dining and visiting DJs. Some, like the Purobeach, are connected to sister, urban hotels in Palma, and offer free guest transfers. They’re the perfect antidote to a city stay.

What’s new

The over-hanging, glass-bottomed pool at the new INNSiDE Meliá Calvia Beach has become a landmark in the western end of Magaluf, now known as Calvia Resort, and a symbol of the resort’s regeneration. Just 50m from the beach, the hotel has four pools, a rooftop sun club with DJs, hammocks and Bali beds, and a 24-hour gym.

When to sell

Don’t just focus on the peak summer season. In the slightly cooler months, Majorca is ideal for active holidays. Hikers can take their pick of trails in the Tramuntana mountains while cyclists can take advantage of some of the best road-biking in Europe. •

Book it with... Jet2holidays

A week’s B&B at the 4-star Meliá Calvia Beach in The Level Premium room with sea views, from Birmingham on May 4, is £729 per person based on two adults sharing. jet2holidays.com

Attracting a more sophisticated, discerning visitor has been high on the agenda for this beautiful Balearic island and it’s now paying off, says Bev Fearis

majorca’s coastline

tramuntana mountains

innsiDe meliá calvia beach

“We have launched the ‘Come Alive Collection’, to showcase the unique offering of each resort”

Joelle Edwards-Tonks, Chief Sales and Marketing Officer, Sunlife

Formerly known as Sun Resorts, Sunlife has recently undergone a total rebrand. We own four luxury resorts in Mauritius; five-star Sugar Beach, five-star Long Beach, four-star La Pirogue, and four-star Ambre, plus private island Ile aux Cerfs, home to Ile aux Cerfs Golf Club.

Recently renovated Sugar Beach has sea and gardenfacing rooms, offering views of the lagoon, the coconut groves and the sandy beach. While Long Beach is located on the longest, widest stretch of white-sand coastline in Mauritius. Both are our flagship properties.

As part of Sunlife’s recent transformation, we have launched the ‘Come Alive Collection’, which identifies the unique offering of each resort. For example at Long Beach, ‘Swing and Drift’ encourages guests to relax in hammocks while enjoying a massage.

At Sugar Beach, experiences like ‘L’Atelier des Sens’, a perfume making workshop, and ‘Putting on the Ritz’ bring glamour to the holiday experience with makeovers, gown hire and ballroom dancing classes.

Sustainability initiatives

Sunlife encourage guests to immerse themselves in ecoinspired fun including mangrove plantations, eco-kids’ clubs and zero carbon water activities to name a few.

Long Beach has its own coral farming programme which encourages rapid growth of new coral, with healing happening 25-40 times faster. Since its creation over 2,000 coral fragments have been planted.

The resort also offers a twice-weekly Endemic Nature Trail led by the in-house biologist, with each guest planting a tree as part of the rewilding project.

At private island Ile Aux Cerfs, our bubble lodges have been created to have a minimal impact on the environment and require very little energy.

Sunlife has its own Chef’s Garden and is also teaching the local community how to harvest seasonal ingredients using sustainable agriculture.

Something for everyone

Sunlife has curated experiences to cater for the whole family. Long Beach offers kids and teen club, Waves, with arts and crafts, beach barbecues around the campfire and even DJ classes. The grown-ups can enjoy a separate adults-only infinity pool with private cabanas and our spa. A sunrise kayak spotting coral and fish in the lagoon is a must for all ages.

Sugar Beach’s Sunlife Kids Club offers daily activities including treasure hunts, arts and crafts and water sports. Teenagers have The Sunlife Generation Lounge with arcade games, pool tables and ping pong alongside special events such as pizza parties and DJ nights.

Private island Ile aux Cerfs can only be reached by boat or helicopter, and is home to the luxury bubble lodges where guests can spend the night. Keen golfers will love the resort’s golf course designed by two-time Masters champion Bernhard Langer.

Mauritius vs Maldives

Mauritius and the Maldives are two of the most popular destinations in the indian ocean – and rightly so. Both famed for stunning white-sand beaches and crystalline ocean, they also set what is often considered the industry standard in luxurious resorts.

Although each destination offers a wide range of unique draws and attractions, they have some key differences that make them better suited for different types of travellers. Here are some important considerations when deciding whether to send clients to Mauritius or the Maldives.

Best for nature and beaches

There are tons of high-calibre nature experiences to be found in The Maldives,

which is also considered to be the poster-child for picture-perfect beaches and five-star resorts. With exceptional scuba diving and snorkelling spots for glimpsing a huge range of wildlife such as turtles, dolphins and manta rays, it also ticks the beaches box for its endless secluded stretches of white sand.

“The Maldives is the quintessential escape to paradise, with each island showcasing its unique style and Maldivian story. Guests can explore remarkable reefs and spot local marine life in the crystal-clear waters of the Indian Ocean, or, tick another one off the bucket list with a private dining experience on a pristine, white beach,” says Julie Murray, Product Executive – Indian Ocean & UAE at If Only.

The new Dhawa Ihuru resort in the North Male atoll is the latest to offer windsurfing,

wakeboarding, waterskiing and canoeing, with 30 dive spots at the house reef and a PADI 5-star Gold Dive Centre onsite.

Or there’s the Kahan’bu Catamaran that takes guests on private sailing excursions over the house reef to snorkel, or to dining spots on uninhabited islands. However, Mauritius perhaps has the edge when it comes to nature.

The island is home to an array of natural wonders: from lush rainforests to cascading waterfalls. The island’s rugged interior is ideal for exploring by bike or on an extended hike up to one of its many peaks for panoramic views of the ocean.

Top tip: In the Maldives, you’ll find world-class beaches on pretty much every island and most resorts have their own private sands. It’s also home to some of the world’s best coral

When it comes to the Indian Ocean, both Mauritius and the Maldives conjure up images of the perfect island getaway. Charlotte Flach looks at what they do best for travellers

dine to the beat of african druMs at le boMa, heritage awali, Mauritius

dusky glow at constance halaveli, Maldives

Maldives vs Mauritius / 35

Globe hopping

reefs and is popular with surfers, due to its uninterrupted ocean, gentle and safe surf, and quiet, private beaches.

Best value for money

When it comes to value for money, Mauritius is the frontrunner. The island is relatively less expensive than the Maldives and offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budgetfriendly guest houses to luxury resorts.

“Mauritius is proud to offer travellers zero compromises on a luxury getaway at more affordable prices than its competitors,” says Arvind Bundhun, Director of the Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority.

“The island has a varied range of accommodation options, from high-end resorts to charming guest houses suitable for any budget and acting as a great base to explore the natural beauty of Mauritius.”

Additionally, the island has a strong local culture and a wide range of activities and attractions that don’t require a large

budget – such as hiking, visiting the local markets or exploring the island’s national parks like Black River Gorges.

The Maldives, on the other hand, is known for its ultra-luxury resorts, which often have a higher price point. When considering the world-class spa facilities, iconic overwater villas, and international fine-dining, resorts such as Outrigger Maldives, Halaveli and Moofushi are worth splashing out on. Top tip: C Mauritius is a fantastic four-star option, made even better value by its allinclusive offering. The Attitude brand also offers three- and four-star resorts, making an island break feasible on a lower budget

Best for families and adventure

If your clients are travelling with kids, Mauritius is an easier sell. The island has a wide range of family-friendly activities and attractions, including waterparks, zoos, and theme parks.

“Mauritius offers year-round sunshine, beautiful accommodations and adventures

available to all ages,” says Bundhun.

“The short time difference allows family routines to be largely undisturbed, allowing plenty of quality time together spent snorkelling or exploring one of Mauritius’ national parks. The surrounding coral reef around the island’s shores ensures minimal waves and warm waters, making beaches perfect for young children

if only

taking their first swim in the Indian Ocean.” Casela’s Nature and Leisure Park is a onestop child’s paradise which includes a zoo featuring many of the big five, canyoning, segway, quad & buggy rides, a 4D cinema, pony rides, a playground, and giant slides. Or there’s the Polaris Fun Drive Adventure for kids aged seven and above, where they can tear around a racing track in complete safety. And resorts such as Heritage offers childcare, kids’ clubs and even golfing initiations for teens.

Mauritius also offers a wide range of adrenaline-boosting adventure activities, including ziplining, rock climbing, and paragliding. Travellers seeking adventure will find it in abundance in Mauritius.

Says Bundhun: “The Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority encourages visitors to spend time hiking the Mauritian National Parks, discover natural phenomenons

Mauritius celebrates its unique culture with year-round festivals

sunrise yoga at dhawa ihuru, Maldives

outrigger Maafushivaru resort water villas, Maldives cocktails at sugar beach, Mauritius

“The Maldives’ laidback culture is epitomised by the barefoot concept which is popular within many resorts”

Julie Murray,

WITH YOUR PREFERRED TOUR OPERATOR

such as the underwater waterfall in Le Morne and take to the sea for scuba diving, snorkelling and catamaran joyrides. E-biking is a great way to see the island’s iconic and varied landscapes.”

Chamarel Seven Coloured Earth Geopark offers many of these activities, along with the chance to get up close to the famous colourful volcanic sand. Directly opposite is the tortoise pen, where specimens aged over 100 years old amble around.

Although the Maldives might not appear quite as child-friendly, there are plenty of resorts that offer top quality kids’ clubs and activities, meaning the whole family feels included. Many have speciallytrained nannies who lead a range of activities from nature discovery sessions and treasure hunts to yoga and dance.

Kids will also delight in the huge variety of watersports, wildlife cruises and snorkelling safaris which are often adapted for them.

Siyam World is home to Siyam Water World, The Maldives’ biggest floating

water park to date, as well as a range of watersports activities including Manta5 Hydrofoiler XE-1, the world’s first hydrofoil e-bikes, as well as the Seabreacher, a semi-submersible vessel that can jump over and dive under waves.

Top tip: Chamarel is home to some of most exciting quad biking on Mauritius, with tours taking riders through the mountains. The winding paths, hilly areas and steep drops make this an adrenaline junkie’s drive of a lifetime.

Best for culture

The Maldives is known more for its natural beauty than its culture, but there are still pockets of history to be found. The capital, Male, is home to the National Museum Maldives plus other local cultural hotspots where travellers can meet with locals. Male is also home to the Grand Friday Mosque, National Art Gallery, and the contemporary Esjehi Art Gallery, where visitors can mingle with the artists.

If Only’s Murray adds: “Immerse

Be here. Be you.

Diver’s Paradise in North Male Atoll Begins New Chapter as Dhawa Ihuru

Dhawa, a brand by Banyan Tree Group enters the Maldives with an idyllic island retreat set on the North Malé Atoll. The all-villa Dhawa Ihuru, just a 20minute speedboat ride from Male Airport, invites sun-seekers and marine life enthusiasts to explore its new dining and leisure offerings as the property unveils new facilities following a rebrand from Angsana Ihuru. An island retreat with azure waters boasting world class diving, a spectacular sweep of powder-white beach, breathtaking sunset panoramas, several All Inclusive options and a relaxed atmosphere, the reasons for staying at Dhawa Ihuru are crystal-clear.

Most resorts in the Maldives have their own private beaches

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BOOK

yourself in the Maldivian culture by joining a cookery class and learn to use local produce and techniques.

The Maldives’ laidback culture is epitomised by the barefoot concept which is popular within many resorts.”

“Settlers reached The Maldives from all over the world, starting in ancient seafaring times, and this has created a unique culture,” says Steve Silver, Product Manager for Blue Bay Travel. “Visitors will find the traditional Maldivian music and dance practices, accompanied by hand-beaten drums, reminiscent

of cultures from Africa and India.”

Meanwhile, Mauritius has a rich cultural heritage, with influences from Africa, Asia, and Europe, alongside a large, and devout Hindu population. Visitors can experience this blend of cultures by visiting the island’s museums and markets, and even receive blessings from Hindu gods at local temples, which welcome curious tourists.

The island has a strong tradition of music and dance, which can be experienced at local festivals and events, particularly its characteristic music Sega, which is often described as unlike any other musical genre. Top tip: Cora Cora Maldives is the first resort in the region to have its own on-site historical museum, which is open to the public during a guided tour. It is also only the second museum to open throughout the Maldives.

Best for luxury

When it comes to top-drawer luxury, the Maldives is the undisputed frontrunner.

HERITAGE LE TELFAIR GOLF & WELLNESS RESORT

Your refined small luxury hotel

Guests staying at the Heritage Le Telfair Golf & Wellness Resort can immerse themselves in the rich heritage of the Bel Ombre region whilst enjoying fine dining, personalised service, exclusive spa facilities and access to a multi award golf course.

Resort Highlights

Affiliate member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World • Access to all Heritage Bel Ombre facilities

• Resident host in all our suites

• Gourmet Bliss dining and leisure passport on the island

• A 2,500 sqm Wellness Pavillon with a unique Wellness Bliss

optional package

• 1 km of pristine beach

• Unlimited free green frees on our 18 holes championship golf course, Le Château Golf Course

• Upcoming La Reserve Golf Links, the only private golf course in Mauritius, accessible to Heritage Resorts residents, with a fee

• A choice of 12 restaurants across the Domaine with different gourmet experiences

• Certified ''Green Key'' hotel

• Complimentary baby corner for toddlers under 3 years of age, kids club and teens activities programmes Daily evening entertainment

• The 19th Century historic plantation-style house, Le Château de Bel Ombre with gastronomic food.

“Mauritius is proud to offer travellers zero compromises on a luxury getaway at more affordable prices than its competitors”

arvind bundhun, Mauritius tourism promotion authority

wellness spa at heritage awali, Mauritius

The island nation is home to some of the world’s most exclusive resorts, many of which are located on private islands.

These resorts offer a wide range of high-end amenities and activities, such as The Heritage le Telfair which sells itself on its top-tier wellness and golf facilities.

“Ultra-luxurious hotels, 24-hour butler service and world-class spas: the Maldives is truly the pinnacle of tropical luxury,” says Murray.

“Many hotels offer one-of-a-kind wellness packages where guests can indulge in soothing treatments with panoramic views of the Indian Ocean.”

That said, there are some extremely high-end properties scattered throughout Mauritius. The recently rebranded and refurbished Sunlife brand has four luxury resorts across the island: Sugar Beach, La Pirogue, Long Beach and the adultsonly Ambre, plus private island Ile aux Cerfs, home to Ile aux Cerfs Golf Club and luxury bubble lodges. Guests staying at Sugar Beach can even have a head-to-toe makeover and choose from dozens of gowns to glam up for ’Putting on the Ritz,’ part of the brand’s ‘Come Alive Collection’.

Meanwhile LUX* Resorts offers four high end properties across Mauritius: LUX* Belle Mare on the wild east coast, LUX* Grand Gaube on a peninsula in northern Mauritius, LUX* Le Morne at the foot of Le Morne Mountain on the west coast and newest addition LUX* Grand Baie, a boutique-style property on the northern shores. Clients can indulge in a sunset aperitivo on Le Morne mountain, a 500-candle dinner on LUX* Le Morne’s beach or a helicopter tour of Reunion Island. Top tip: For better value for money in The Maldives, all-inclusive is usually the most economical option. The Heritance Aarah has a premium all-inclusive offering that includes a massage, sightseeing excursion, attraction entries and dining experiences.

Where to book it

Kenwood Travel

A seven-night stay in a Beach Villa at The Heritance Aarah including return flights from Heathrow is priced from £2,860pp. Based on a May 30 2023 departure on a premium all-inclusive board. kenwoodtravel.co.uk

Kuoni

Seven-nights in a Duluxe Garden View Room at the Heritage Awali Golf & Spa resort in Mauritius is priced from £1,749pp based on selected departures in September 2023. Includes direct return flights from London Heathrow with Air Mauritius and is on an all-inclusive board. kuoni.co.uk •

luX* grand baie, the brand’s newest luXury resort in Mauritius faMily-friendly sun siyaM in the Maldives offers villas with slides

Mauritius is ideal for adventurous types

Mauritius has enough to keep the kids occupied

Eastern Kentucky

Red River gorge

Home to rugged cliffs, secluded swimming holes and pine-clad hiking trails, Red River Gorge in Daniel Boone National Forest is one of Kentucky’s natural treasures. The gorge is a favourite for rock climbers with craggy cliffs, natural bridges and the largest collection of sandstone arches east of the Rockies. Those looking for a slower pace can enjoy scenic drives and picnic spots on the banks of Mill Creek Lake. Be sure to stop at Chimney Top Rock lookout point for a 360-degree view of The Gorge.

Cumberland Falls

Known as the ‘Niagara of the South’, Cumberland Falls in McCreary County is Kentucky’s largest waterfall and one of the few places in the world that regularly produces a ‘moonbow’ during a full moon. See the falls from one of the many hiking trails or take a guided horseback ride that winds through the park. Experience the full force of the falls with a white-water ride just downriver from its dramatic drop, then sit back and watch the riverbanks pass by on a sightseeing tour aboard The Cumberland Star riverboat.

Country Music Highway

Follow in the footsteps of Kentucky’s country music stars including Loretta Lynn, Chris Stapleton and Billy Ray Cyrus by driving the Country Music Highway. This scenic roadway

rambles through seven counties, hugging the border of West Virginia and passing beautiful state parks. Music and storytelling traditions run deep in Eastern Kentucky, which has produced more hit country artists than any other region per capita. Visit the U.S. 23 Country Music Highway Museum which hosts live bluegrass music every Thursday, and don’t miss a visit to singer-songwriter Loretta Lynn’s home in Butcher Holler.

Carter Caves

Wind through a seemingly endless maze of ancient caves at Carter Caves State Resort Park. The Carter County region has the highest concentration of caves in Kentucky and dates back millions of years. Marvel at the Great Chandelier, a formation of stalactites suspended from the roof of X-Cave or take a tour of a 30-foot high underground waterfall inside Cascade Cave. A gem mining experience is a great way to get kids engaging with their natural surroundings and uncovers real gemstones and fossils.

•

Ride the Rapids at CumbeRland Falls

touR loRetta lynn’s home in butCheR holleR

the gReat sandstone aRCh at Red RiveR goRge

stalaCtites hanging in the CaRteR Caves

Dominated by the spectacular Appalachian Mountains, Eastern Kentucky invites visitors to experience the wild wonders of the Bluegrass state for themselves

Feeling Zen

in Saskatchewan

Tourism Saskatchewan’s Matt Duguid walks the Path of Meditation and Relaxation at The Crossing at Grasslands, a boutique property on the border of the Canadian province’s Grassland National Park

We sit under a large tree in a pair of Adirondack chairs, the dappled morning sunlight filtering through the branches and the rich smell of fresh coffee filling my nose.

Susan Howard, co-owner of The Crossing at Grasslands, and I look out across the pond on the edge of her property. A furry nose pokes out where the vegetation meets the water. It’s a muskrat. Susan mentions they’ve got four or five living in the pond now. We watch it paddle around for a few moments.

It’s easy to let the stress of life’s busy schedule wash away at The Crossing at Grasslands. Located just five minutes south of the village of Val Marie, the relaxation retreat borders the West Block of Grasslands National Park in Saskatchewan.

As you cruise up the driveway and crest a hill, you’re greeted with a bucolic view of several barn-shaped buildings with red roofs overlooking a pond.

There are three self-contained suites, each asking for a three-night minimum stay, on 80 acres of rolling grasslands.

“What we’re hoping that our guests feel

and experience when they’re here is that sense of homecoming...to slow down and leave their busy lives behind,” Susan says. A few moments later and, as if on cue, the family cat, Drifty, hops up onto Susan’s lap, lays down and starts purring.

Susan and her husband Neil Ward first visited Grasslands National Park in 2007 but it wasn’t until 2014 when the opportunity to return presented itself. “It was just like I was being called home,” Susan remembers. “We were living in downtown Toronto and looking for a little acreage to park a trailer. A business, and 80 acres was not in our plans. But we fell in love with this place,” she says.

While the tranquil setting and abundance of wildlife supply ample opportunity for relaxation, the pair have added Mary’s Labyrinth, a maze used for walking meditation. Its twists and turns form a single path, with no wrong turns or choices to make.

At sunset, Susan and I wind our way through the labyrinth. Before I conclude my day, Susan invites me to enjoy a few moments of relaxation in the cenre. We both lay on the large boulder, staring up at the sky, the first stars appearing in the evening twilight. I take a few deep breaths and close my eyes. I realise that Mary’s Labyrinth is working. I am thoroughly relaxed now and could easily get used to this.•

Moving Mountains

Brits don’t have to travel far to find off the beaten path adventure and exotic cultural experiences, as Bev Fearis discovers on a trip to Morocco

“Mules” came the command from the guide at the front and we all shifted to the side of the winding, dusty track to make way for another colourful caravan of mules, loaded with luggage and provisions on their slow and steady journey up to Base Camp.

We were also taking it slowly as we gained altitude, our expert Berber guides setting the pace and making sure we stopped regularly to acclimatise. It gave us a chance to take in the far-reaching views of majestic craggy peaks, dotted with shrubs and sleepy mountain settlements, which reached up to the blue sky, turning gold or purple when touched by the rise and fall of the sun. The only sound was the clip clop of the mules and the call to prayer. We were only a day into our G Adventures Atlas Mountain trek but already it felt like a different world to the hustle and bustle we’d left behind in Marrakech.

We were here to climb North Africa’s highest mountain, Mount Toubkal, which at 4,167 metres above sea level took us

into yet another world when we set out at 5am the next morning, in thermals and fleeces, our head torches leading us through the darkness as we clambered over boulders and up rocky paths. It was steep and a cold wind made it hard going, but the guides and the rising sun kept us motivated and five hours later we reached the top. On a clear day, hikers are rewarded with views of the Marrakech Plain all the way from the High Atlas in the north to the Sahara in the south. We weren’t so lucky with the conditions but it was still utterly exhilarating to reach the summit, where we hugged and took selfies with newly-made friends with whom we’d shared this challenging but wonderful adventure. As we descended, the fog cleared and we were rewarded with breath-taking views of the peaks around us, covered in a light dusting of snow. My knees were feeling the strain but I promised myself I would return and do the climb again, hopefully on a clearer day.

The sights, sounds and smells of Morocco are so wonderfully unfamiliar, it’s hard to

Top experiences

believe it’s only a three-and-a-half-hour flight from the UK. “Morocco is an exotic long-haul destination with a short-haul flight,” says Farouk Lazhar, Trade Manager for the Moroccan National Tourist Office. “Tour operators and agents can book their customers a range of stays, from hotels and riads to desert camps and retreats, all with a variety of excursion options whether it be for a cultural experience, sports, adventure or wellbeing.”

The British market is the second largest external market and in 2022 there were 563,829 arrivals from the UK. Marrakech hosted ABTA’s Travel Convention in Marrakech last October and the national team’s unexpected success in the World Cup prompted a rise in interest. Billing itself as the Kingdom of Light, Morocco is gearing up for a rapid revival in 2023.

Tourism officials say research shows the country’s range of attractions particularly appeal to a younger audience seeking the unexpected and something different.

“In 2023, tourists will explore hidden gems in lesser-known cities, with visits to Essaouira, Taghazout, Tangier and Dakhla on the rise. There is also a varied calendar of festivals and sporting events taking place, such as the International Storytelling Festival in Marrakech, the Marathon des Sables across the Moroccan Sahara, and the Gnaoua World Music Festival in Essaouira,” adds Lazhar.

surf’s up: Just a few miles to the south of Agadir, the once sleepy fishing village of Taghazout has become one of the world’s top spots for surfing. It’s home to numerous surf schools, catering for beginners to experts, some also providing hostel accommodation or yoga classes. For bigger budgets there are also beachfront villas and luxury hotels, many built over the last 10 years as the resort has flourished.

southern paradise: Between the waters of the Atlantic and the sands of the Sahara, Dakhla is known as the ‘Pearl of Southern Morocco’ for its golden sandy shores and lagoon of crystalline waters. As well as watersports, Dakhla is renowned for its wellbeing and yoga retreats, while just a short hop inland and you can take a 4x4 to discover the White Dune or ride a camel in the Sahara.

café culture: Standing at the northern tip of Morocco, Tangier is known as the gateway to Africa. Writers like Paul Bowles, Jack Kerouac and William Burroughs, famed for their part in the Beat generation and counterculture, put Tangier on the map during the sixties and seventies and the city still enjoys a thriving arts scene and café culture.

natural oasis: A popular day trip from Marrakech (and the perfect break from the heat and intensity of the city and the desert) the cascading Ouzoud Waterfalls flow pretty much year round. The second largest waterfalls in Africa, there are three sections falling from 110 metres high, which you’ll hear crashing down as you approach through the olive groves. Take your swimsuit for a refreshing dip and soak up the stunning scenery.

Brian Young, Managing Director EMEA for G Adventures, reports a rise in demand from UK travellers seeking adventures closer to home and says Morocco is definitely high on the list.

“Just a short flight away, travellers can be in a destination that transports them far beyond the familiarity of Europe, with incredible food, scenery, adventure

Chouara Tannery in Fez

CaTCh a wave aT agadir

experiences and landscapes,” he adds.

The operator has launched seven new trips to Morocco for 2023, ranging from shorter coastal and desert adventures to longer trips taking in multiple regions.

What’s new?

Flying high: Demonstrating the confidence in the future of Morocco as a tourist destination, easyJet has signed a five-year agreement starting this summer to double its seat capacity to 1.6 million by early 2028. The routes will depart from seven markets including the UK, not only on existing routes to Marrakech, Agadir, Essaouira and Tangier but also to new destinations, such as Rabat, Fez, and Ouarzazate. easyjet.com

Ryanair, Royal Air Maroc, British Airways, TUI Fly and Air Arabia also fly to Morocco from the UK and Ireland, from London, Manchester, Birmingham, Edinburgh and Dublin to Marrakech, Agadir, Casablanca, Rabat, Tangier and Fes.

Designer luxury: Set to appeal to affluent, party-loving adventurers, the 71-suite Nobu Hotel Marrakech opened in January, bringing the city’s first Nobu restaurant, a rooftop garden with a circular pool deck, cabanas, a restaurant, bar and a 360-degree panoramic terrace that hosts DJ sets and local artists. The hotel also boasts a 2,000 sq m spa, with 14 treatment rooms, a fitness centre and three swimming pools. marrakech.nobuhotels.com

Morocco, tailormade for all levels. abercrombiekent.co.uk

Desert living: Inspired by nomadic Bedouin culture, eco-hospitality group Habitas has created Caravan Agafan, a desert glamping facility 45 minutes from downtown Marrakech.

The site features 20 stylish Moroccan canvas wall tents, a gourmet restaurant, two swimming pools, a horse and camel stable, outdoor cinema, wellness centre, and agora communal gathering spaces. ourhabitas.com

horses can help to overcome anxieties, lack of confidence and can help with stress management and emotional control. selman-marrakech.com

Where to book it

G ADVENTURES

Horse power:

New for 2023, the Selman Marrakech, renowned for its stable of Arabian stallions, is offering Equitherapy sessions for guests. A personal development workshop with the

G Adventures’ news 12-day tour, Southern Morocco: The Sahara, The Coast and Marrakech, includes hiking through the Sahara and sleeping in a desert oasis camp; exploring Marrakech and Agadir, before heading to the coast. Priced from £1,359pp, it includes accommodation, most meals, excursions and transfers, but excluding flights. A new Friday-Monday trip to climb Mount Toubkal costs from £399pp. gadventures.com •

A&K has introduced a new five-night Spotlight on Morocco tour, which includes time spent in Marrakech before venturing to some of Morocco’s rural beauty spots including the soaring Atlas Mountains. It also offers a new Expedition Mountaineering in

Tempting tours:

g advenTures Trek Through The aTlas mounTains TradiTional CaFe in marrakeCh resTauranT in The new nobu marrakeCh

Globe hopping

Access all areas

Receiving a dire diagnosis or developing a disability is tough but it isn’t always an instant disaster. For many, it quickly focuses personal priorities and adds a new sense of urgent determination to work through bucket-list ambitions.

However, realising those dreams –especially when they include travel – can be a challenge, with all sort of unexpected barriers to be negotiated.

When my own daughter was diagnosed with a brain tumour at just 28, we reeled from the shock of course but then dug in for the gruelling treatment and rehabilitation and tried to look ahead to better times.

Like many with challenging conditions, our focus was not on the things Chloe couldn’t do, but on what she could do; on how to make every day a party, and find motivational goals to get us through one step at a time.

Top of her ‘to do’ list as soon as she could was international travel, which was already a big part of her life with back-packing and multiple work trips already behind her.

Initially, we were restricted to favourite UK haunts but her main mission was to go from diagnosis to her dream destination – the Maldives – and we became part of a large and growing market of travellers keen to book but in need of a little special attention.

Chloe got her trip to the Maldives

eventually but in researching how to travel with a disability we discovered horror stories abound. Inappropriate and unhelpful airline crews, vital mobility equipment lost or delayed, access denied, massively inflated insurance premiums, insensitive comments and misunderstandings.

It’s a sad realisation when you approach a dream holiday with a new condition and discover some companies are no longer so eager for your business. You have become a worry to them, a check-list of symptoms and requirements, and you feel a liability. This needs to change.

Untapped market

Better recognition of this market is not just for the benefit of disabled travellers, it is also a business necessity, says Richard Thompson, Co-founder and CEO of Inclucare, whose team has developed a set of accessibility and inclusion verification standards for the travel supply chain.

He says: “The global spending power of the disabled market is an estimated $10 trillion per year. This is the last untapped market for the industry and an important one – not least because only 17% of disabled people are born disabled.

One of the main contributors to disability is ageing – and that older population is growing. The disabled market of the future could well be your current customers. The

cost of ignoring this market is huge.”

Inclucare’s work so far has produced some shocking results. Of 280 hotels audited, the vast majority did not meet their obligations under equality legislation, buildings codes or both. And in the U.S., where regulations are detailed and prescriptive, hotels are already facing legal action because of these failures. In Europe rules are not as well established and elsewhere regulations are flimsy, but by using the Inclucare app-based audit tool, brands can work on getting it right and differentiate their offer.

Thompson adds: “We predict that within two years, stakeholders will be demanding that providers’ inclusion credentials are up to scratch, much as they do with sustainability now, yet currently many brands aren’t even aware they have discriminatory policies. It’s about understanding that inclusion is not just about the width of doors – it’s a commitment, not a compliance.”

Championing change

Former investment banker Angus Drummond agrees information on facilities is key. Diagnosed with a rare genetic disabling disorder at 22, he quit his job and travelled to 35 new countries. He then founded Limitless Travel to empower people with disabilities to travel and the company has grown 300% year-on-year since 2017, now organising over 70 tours a year.

Understanding inclusivity and accessibility is becoming as critical to business as clear sustainability credentials, and the travel industry needs to up its game to meet demand. Julie Baxter reports

He says: “Travel has the power to change lives with multiple mental health benefits, which are much needed after the stress of a disabling diagnosis. We aim to make the world accessible to all and cut the stress they face when booking a holiday.”

Demand is even stronger post-Covid as disabled people have been among the most isolated and are keen to get travelling again. national disabled holidays charity, Revitalise, reports that thousands of disabled people and carers are longing for a break but find suitable, stress-free holidays hard to find. Accessibility, affordability and stigma are the major barriers encountered and its research shows one in five give up on holiday plans because they can’t find what they need, while a third are blocked by costs.

Ewan Cluckie, founder at destination marketing company, Tripseed, works with the trade on accessible trips to Thailand.

He says: “Our move into accessible tourism was driven by the large gap in the market. no other operators or DMCs had developed a country-wide range of products and services for this segment. Elderly travellers and travellers with disabilities have overwhelmingly been overlooked.”

His team developed tours and activities for travellers with physical disabilities and audio-visual impairments first, and is

now tackling invisible disabilities such as cognitive/neurological impairments. newest to the mix is an accessible tuk tuk tour. The luxury sector is probably the closest to becoming inclusive because of its inherent attention to personal details. Amilla Maldives Resort and Residences became the first Inclucare-verified resort. Its success prompted government interest in driving accessibility issues forward across islands.

Cruise companies, popular with an older market, also have some advantages, and Saga says it focused closely on accessibility when designing its cruise ships. Both Spirit of Adventure and Spirit of Discovery have wider promenades and gently sloping corridors, with lifts central to the ship.

Good to know

Queensland in Australia has hailed 2023 as the Year of Accessible Tourism and, after recently launching an Accessibility Hub on the destination website, Tourism Tropical north Queensland has added an accessibility user-friendly mode.

ABTA supports those agents and operators keen to move this market forward with two online courses. The first details how to improve service whilst understanding the potential issues and customer needs. The second is aimed at senior staff trying

to identify ways to build a more accessible proposition. Training staff is important and some operators – such as TUI – have dedicated teams that offer guidance.

Airlines have been notoriously slow in providing consistent reliable service to this market but Hidden Disabilities, a business born at Gatwick Airport, is helping ease the journey through airports with a scheme that discreetly identifies those needing special assistance, through the wearing of a sunflower lanyard. It is operational in Australia, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Ireland, the netherlands, new Zealand, the UK, UAE and the USA.

Businesses that can’t quickly change to support the sector should consider reaching out to charities. Iglu Ski, for example, has partnered with the UK’s leading adaptive snowsport charity, Disability Snowsport UK (DSUK), to raise funds to help disabled travellers, and invites every customer to contribute to cause.

Where to book it

Responsible Travel offers an eight-day activity holiday in Spain combining accessible accommodation with a sports club used by Paralympians and a certified disabled horse riding centre. priced from £661pp excluding flights. theultimatetravelcompany.co.uk •

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3 Inspiring itineraries featuring exciting excursions

CHOICE FOR ALL INTERESTS

3 Short breaks

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3 Grand tours

3 Rail experiences

3 River cruises

3 Alpine holidays

3 Solo Traveller holidays

OUR HOLIDAYS INCLUDE

3 Luxury coach travel

3 Fully escorted throughout

3 Hand-picked hotels

3 Meals

3 Excursions

3 Porterage at your hotel

3 FREE local joining points

Healing waters in the

Maldives

Everyone handles a new disability or a difficult diagnosis differently but for me the only way to deal with the fact that I was now living with a brain tumour was to take one day at a time, get through the treatment and focus on finding as much joy along the way, and into the future, as possible.

As I grappled with a new, unexpected reality and navigated some scary treatment side effects, the travel industry unwittingly played an important part in my healing process. I sought distraction, scrolled through sunny photos of happier times, watched TV travel shows from my hospital bed, and started thinking about holidays and adventure! Less than a week after diagnosis, I had ordered a new bikini and set myself a new travel goal. I started dreaming about a trip to The Maldives.

Now – two years on – I have arrived.

The hot tropical air and dazzling morning light rush in to greet me as the aircraft door opens in Male after a 10-hour night flight. The small international airport is teeming with people but we’re all quickly steered to the connecting boats and seaplanes departing from the adjoining harbour.

Perhaps nothing sums up the chilled vibe of The Maldives better than those seaplanes and their pilots. Cool dudes with tans and mirrored Ray-Bans, in traditional white flight-deck shirts and epaulettes, but here paired with shorts and flip flops, or even bare feet! They personally welcome us and help us climb aboard before delivering the best inflight briefing I’ve ever heard: “Please fasten your seatbelt. Your lifebelt is under

your seat. If you need air-conditioning, you can fan yourself with the safety information card in the seat pocket in front of you! OK? Let’s go!” Inflight service is a bottle of water and earplugs, for those who find the droning propellers, merely feet from our ears, too close for comfort.

Making the dream a reality

I watch through the open cockpit door as the pilots push the thruster forward and the plane bounces eagerly across the water gaining speed on its floats before the lift is engaged and the wings have control. It’s a novel and exhilarating experience in itself but within minutes the awe and wonder moves from inside to out, and my gaze is glued to the breathtaking view.

The Maldives is not just one place but hundreds. A nation comprised of many dots in an azure sea - an archipelago of over 1,000 islands whose entire land mass is just 115sq miles, all set in 35,000sq miles of sea. It’s a nation formed primarily of sea and from above you quickly realise why rising sea levels are such a worry. Most islands are just 3.5ft above sea level and nothing is taller than a palm tree. The threat of climate change is predicted to submerge many of these islands by 2050.

Local people inhabit just 200 of the islands and those developed for tourism mostly house just one resort. I have opted for Vilamendhoo, one of the Crown and Champa Resorts portfolio, and within 25 minutes my seaplane is splashing down and a traditional drummer is welcoming me as I step ashore to paradise.

The travel industry is often an unwitting part of the medical team when overcoming a dire diagnosis, says Chloe Bain as she jets off to the Maldives

The island meets all the criteria of a classic destination of dreams. It is a place of clear waters and aquamarine seas, white sand beaches and photogenic lazy palm trees stretching out over the shallows. It’s interior is tropical and green, shady and aromatic, and populated with fruit bats and dainty lizards. It is an island of sun-bleached wooden walkways, vivid, wide sunsets and kaleidoscopic underwater encounters. Even at the reception and in the restaurants you feel the sand between your toes.

Positive outlook

My days fall into a gentle rhythm of swimming and snorkeling, reading and resting, interspersed with cocktails and feasting at the bountiful and varied buffet restaurant. I spend endless hours just admiring and photographing the incredible views or star-gazing through the warm, clear-sky evenings. I’ve heard some find the Maldives gets boring but I never tire of these spectacular views.

At the beach I wade off shore until I reach Vilamendhoo’s reef, encircling the island and offering instant, easy access to the Maldives’ awesome aquatic story. I spot a rainbow of fish –vibrant yellows and blues, pinks, greens and orange of every hue. I see the sleek profile of a reef shark, giant sea cucumbers and darting black and white shoals that look like marine bar charts. For deeper encounters there are diving tours to spot turtles, manta rays, shipwrecks and

graceful whale sharks.

The fish accompany me to the spa as I lie on a therapy bed looking down through a glass floor as nature’s ‘fish tank’ entertains me, and the masseur works her magic.

There were challenges and costs for my trip that I never imagined pre- diagnosis but they can be overcome and I can only urge the travel industry to recognise more fully the unique role it can play in practically supporting health and wellbeing. Travel can transform your mood and reboot your outlook. Even just day-dreaming about that special trip can sooth anxiety and motivate you through the medical grind of a diagnosis.

Through every one of my 33 rounds of radiotherapy, with my head clamped to the treatment table, I had visualised walking along that white-sand beach. I had imagined that sun and those fish. Now I was there, and I felt just great. The only question outstanding by the end of my stay was: Where to next?

Chloe is an Ambassador for The Brian Tumour Charity raising awareness and money for research, and sharing tips on living positively with a dire diagnosis. Follow her story on Instagram @positivity_pants •

Book it with... Mercury Holidays

A seven-night stay at Vilamendhoo in a Garden Room on a full board basis is priced at £1,763pp, based on travel in September 2023. Price includes flights from London Heathrow and seaplane flights. mercuryholidays.co.uk

Travel can reboot your outlook even through the toughest oftimes

Be inspired

ITaLY

From adaptive skiing with specialist ski instructors to wheelchair curling, Courmayeur Mont Blanc on the Italian side of Mont Blanc is a fully accessible ski resort year-round. Ski schools offer mono and bi-ski wheelchairs, ‘trotty ski’ and special audio tools for visual impairments. courmayeurmontbl.com

Las Vegas

Las Vegas is a good option for clients with accessibility requirements, with many casinos and attractions accommodating wheelchairs. Mobility scooters are available to hire with rentals such as Cloud of Goods including drop-off and pick-up to all the main hotels and attractions. Accessible taxis are also readily available. travelnevada.com

JaPaN

Modern ramps at ancient temples and stepfree transport are just some of the reasons why Japan is widely considered to be a wheelchairfriendly destination. InsideJapan has a 10-night Wheelchair Accessible Golden Route self-guided cultural adventure which includes all ‘barrier-free’ accommodation, wheelchair accessible transport, private guiding and more. InsideJapanTours.com

Texas

Morgan’s Wonderland in San Antonio is considered the world’s first fully-inclusive theme park. The attraction has over 25 ‘Ultra-Accessible’ rides, playscapes, and interactive elements that everyone can enjoy. The theme park also partners with hotels across the city with accessible rooms to compliment the experience. morganswonderland.com

sPaIN

Responsible Travel, which specialises in accessible travel, offers Accessible Catalan activity holidays with a horse riding centre certified for disabled riders one kilometre from the hotel. The eight-day horse riding trip includes rides through the countryside, swimming with horses, and lessons with national equestrian coach, Rafa Rodriguez. responsibletravel.com

eNgLaNd

Launched in September 2022, the North York Moors Accessibility Project inspires people with accessibility requirements to take short breaks in the region. Attractions and accommodation providers have worked with VisitEngland to develop their access and provide disability awareness training for key staff. Highlights include taking a historic train journey on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway and visiting Helmsley Walled Garden. visitengland.com

MaLdIVes

Committed to ‘total guest inclusion,’ Amilla Maldives is putting accessibility first with deaf-alert systems and adaptive yoga and snorkelling adventures. Also planned are sensory touch, aroma and sound experiences through the jungle for vision-impaired guests as well as dedicated ‘calming spaces’ for guests on the Autism spectrum, with learning difficulties or those with dementia. amilla.com

greNada

The True Blue Bay Boutique Resort works with onsite dive shop Aquanauts to make diving accessible for those with additional needs. The Aquanauts team are qualified in hosting divers with disabilities in a safe environment. A popular dive site is the underwater sculpture park which is teeming with sealife. truebluebay.com

Welcome! Everyone is

As of March 31, 2023, LEGOLAND® California, LEGOLAND® Florida, and LEGOLAND® New York Resorts proudly declare that all Parks will become Certified Autism Centers™.

As part of this certification, all employees will be highly trained to ensure any visitors on the autism spectrum or with other sensory disorders can enjoy the best possible visit. Specially designed on-site offerings include quiet rooms, sensory guides, and low sensory areas.

What’s more, LEGOLAND® Florida’s three onsite hotels, as well as Peppa Pig Theme Park, just steps away from LEGOLAND® , are also all Certified Autism Centers™.

“LEGOLAND® Resorts are designed to inspire creativity amongst children of all abilities,” says Merlin Entertainments CEO Scott O’Neil. “With 1 in 44 children diagnosed with autism in the U.S.A., we want to build understanding and empathy while supporting parents and also ensuring our teams have the tools and support strategies when engaging with a neurodiverse population.”

The new LEGOLAND® Resorts experience includes:

• Trained front-line team members equipped to better assist autistic guests or those with other sensory sensitivities.

• Pre-planning resources available for guests on the Resorts’ websites.

• Across the three Resorts, every ride will have a posted sensory guide developed by IBCCES indicating whether there are bright lights, loud sounds, or any features that guests might need to plan around.

• Low sensory areas allow guests with certain sensitivities to take a break and relax in a less stimulating environment.

• LEGOLAND® Florida and LEGOLAND® New York offer quiet rooms dedicated to children with varying sensory needs – where guests can decompress with weighted blankets, dim lighting, and tactile toys.

• Upon request, First Aid offers ear plugs to assist with sound and overstimulation and “Assisted Access Passes” can be requested at Guest Services. For more information, visit legoland.com •

LEGOLAND® Resorts believe awesome is for everyone, which is why our Parks are more inclusive than ever

Why sell it

Florida has been investing heavily in improving accessibility for travellers with a broad range of disabilities. Many theme parks, national parks, state parks and museums are accessible to wheelchair users, while some beaches – including Daytona, Fernandina and New Smyrna –offer all-terrain beach wheelchair rentals.

LEGOLAND, Peppa Pig Theme Park and Dinosaur World are now Certified Autism Centers (meaning staff have had neurodiversity training and are equipped to better serve guests with ADHD, autism, dyspraxia, dyslexia and sensory sensitivities), while braille trails and audio guides are available in tourism hotspots like Saint Augustine.

For the hearing impaired, hearing assistive systems, amplification headsets and sign language interpreters are widely available at theme parks and attractions, including Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Orlando Resort, Everglades National Park and Kennedy Space Center. Adventure operators are also opening up experiences to visitors with physical and sensory impairments, Downs Syndrome and speech, language and communication needs (SLCN), with accessible kayaking, horse riding and scuba diving on offer.

Florida

What to sell

The Accessible Travel Hub at VisitFlorida. com is a great resource for finding accessible attractions, tours, beaches, parks and events. The website also showcases travellers with disabilities in its Limitless Florida video series.

Harry Hastings, Co-Founder and CoCEO of Ocean Holidays, Europe’s leading Florida holiday expert and a registered member of the global Hidden Disabilities Sunflower network, says: “Florida holidays have been redefining what all-inclusive travel means in recent years. Attractions and accommodation across the state have vastly improved their accessibility, including special assistance programmes at all major theme parks and an array of wheelchair-friendly beach hotels. This widespread adoption of accessible services has left little need for disabled travellers to look beyond the most popular holiday

Florida’s resorts, attractions and operators are making it easier than ever for visitors with disabilities to travel in the Sunshine State, says Lauren Jarvis

Boat trip with traNQUiL aDVENtUrES iN KEY LarGo, FLoriDa KEYS

BEach FriENDLY whEELchair oN SaraSota coUNtY BEach

thE FLoriDa aQUariUm iS whEELchair FriENDLY

priNcESS pLacE prESErVE iN paLm coaSt

options, with Orlando firmly remaining in the top spot.”

The company’s new Accessibility Programme aims to remove any remaining barriers for customers, offering personalised assistance, from concierge support at UK airports, to adapted car hire in the USA.

“The mission to improve accessibility in the travel industry isn’t over,” says Hastings. “And we plan on being at the forefront of change for years to come.”

Top tips

The winter months (November to February) are a good time to go as temperatures are mild and dry and parks are generally less busy.

Booking ahead is also recommended, especially during peak holiday times. Hastings says: “We advise booking early as accommodation and adapted vehicles with special assistance facilities can be limited and we see that it can be more challenging if someone books last minute.

“We are offering special assistance holidays to Florida up until 2025, to give everyone that extra piece of mind when it comes to planning and securing their dream holiday.”

What’s new

The world’s first Peppa Pig Theme Park opened next to LEGOLAND in Winter Haven in 2022, with fun rides for preschoolers, a splash park, cinema and live shows. The theme park offers a HERO pass for visitors with disabilities, and is also a Certified Autism Center. peppapigthemepark.com

Gateway: The Deep Space Launch Complex opened at Kennedy Space Center in 2022, showcasing space artefacts, interactive displays and games, and simulated space journeys. The site is wheelchair accessible, complimentary KSC SmartGuides are available to visitors with hearing impairment, and American Sign Language interpreters can be booked in advance. kennedyspacecenter.com

The new Florida Children’s Museum opened in autumn 2022 at Bonnet Springs Park in Lakeland, with six interactive galleries for children of all ages and abilities. The museum works in partnership with the Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (CARD) and offers visitors autism-friendly Sensory Kits. explorefcm.org

The JN “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel Island is the first of the 560 refuges in the US National Wildlife Refuge System to include a spotting scope for colourblind visitors on its wheelchairaccessible Wildlife Drive observation tower. Check the website for recovery updates post Hurricane Ian. fws.gov/ refuge/jn-ding-darling

Visit Tampa Bay has created online accessibility guides with its partners, including sensory-friendly activities and accessibility to the region’s events, including Tampa Pride. There is also an accessibility module in the Tampa Bay Travel Agent Training Academy. visittampabay.com/academy •

Book it with... Ocean Florida

Leading the way with accessible holidays, Ocean Florida offers an autism-friendly holiday from £1,499pp, including seven nights at the Doubletree by Hilton Orlando at SeaWorld (a Certified Autism Center) and seven nights at the Tradewinds Island Grand Beach Resort in St. Pete Beach (a certified Center for Autism & Related Disabilities), with return international flights and car hire, plus Meet & Greet services at the UK airport. ocean-holidays.co.uk / oceanfloridatrade@ocean-holidays.co.uk

paDDLEBoarDiNG at oLEta riVEr StatE parK

riNGLiNG mUSEUm oF art, SaraSota

accESS LiFt at FaNNiNG SpriNGS StatE parK

A-Rosa Sena

By Steve Hartridge

The Vessel: A-ROSA’s newest E-motion Rhine ship.

The Cruise: A five-night Christmas Markets City Experience that started in Düsseldorf and visited Rotterdam, Amsterdam, Utrecht and Cologne.

The Welcome: Red roses – the cruise line’s motif – were handed to every female passenger. The formalities were dealt with quickly and with smiles.

The Cabin: 321 on the Deck Three.

Outside cabins on decks Two and Three are a generous 21 sq ms, divided into a sleeping and lounge area. With a double bed, couch, table and chair, large bathroom and a balcony with seating for two.

Language: Ship announcements –and activities on board – like the afternoon quiz – were in German, often without an English translation. However, most of the staff spoke excellent English.

Restaurants & Bars: A-ROSA

MARKET, the main dining room, has a range of different seating areas including an atrium-style pavilion with a glass front. The buffet style cuisine was outstanding – think gourmet food prepared by creative chefs. For example: grilled fillet of pike perch with saffron and vermouth sauce. There was a vegan and vegetarian options and sweet and savoury creations from the ship’s bakery.

Sena Grill is an à la carte service restaurant that, for a supplement, offers a more intimate dining experience with cuisine focusing on steak, seafood and sushi bowls. The flagship Sena Bar serves premium wines, beer and spirits and cocktails with very generous splashes of alcohol. The lounge has a wraparound bar, where you can watch bartenders at work, and big bay windows that offer views onto the passing land and cityscapes. The Winery hosts private dinners. In the warmer months, dining and drinks are served outside.

For Families: Sena features oversized 28 sq ms family cabins that sleep up to five. The A-ROSA Kids Club has its own dedicated rooms on board and there is a separate children’s pool on deck.

Health and Fitness: The SPA-ROSA is on a par with anything similar at a five-star hotel, with a sauna, whirlpool, ice grotto, heat bench, relaxation room, treatment rooms and a fitness area. Two pools are located on the huge sun deck.

Ambience: Very relaxed and informal, with no seating plan or dress code, Sustainability: The A-ROSA SENA features a hybrid propulsion system with electric and diesel engines, as well as a battery storage system that allows for virtually silent and emission-free city calls.

Pound for pound, is there a better valuefor-money travel product than a river cruise? The state-of-the-art A-Rosa Sena is raising the bar for the sector through its outstanding service, top-notch food and beverage offerings and overall quality – all for one transparent all-inclusive price.

Rates: The five-night Rhine Christmas Market City Experience starts from £1,879pp, for a balcony cabin and on a premium all-inclusive basis. Departing November 23 2023, including flights from Heathrow. arosa-cruises.co.uk

The verdicT

New cruise product for 2023

The cruise industry is set to welcome 20 new ships across ocean and river sectors in 2023. Agents will be able to sell new product including the first ship from MSC Group’s luxury cruise line Explora Journeys, Carnival Cruise Line’s third Excel-class ship and Celebrity’s fourth Edge-class vessel.

The 14 new ocean liners debuting this year are: Virgin Voyages’ Resilient Lady and Brilliant Lady, Carnival Jubilee, Celebrity Ascent, Emerald Sakara, Explora I, MSC Euribia, Norwegian Viva, Seabourn Pursuit, Seven Seas Grandeur for Regent, Silversea’s Silver Nova, Viking Saturn, Vista for Oceania Cruises and World Seeker for Atlas Ocean Voyages. In the river cruise sector six ships will debut, including: Amadeus Riva, American Serenade, Coquelicot for Belmond, Amadeus Elegant for Saga, Viking Aton and Viva Cruises’ Viva two. The new additions follow a positive Wave period with far-flung sailings proving popular for cruise lines.

CLIA Chair and Royal Caribbean International EMEA Vice-President, Ben

Bouldin, said: “We are eagerly anticipating the 2022 cruising figures, and while they may not be on par with 2019 figures yet, we are confident they will show huge progression on cruising numbers.”

Eithne Williamson, Vice President of Princess Cruises for UK and Europe, said: “Japan is in demand now that the borders have reopened and more guests than ever are opting for an all-inclusive package for their 2023 holidays.”

Meanwhile, world cruises from Fred. Olsen and Regent are selling out in record time.

NEWS IN BRIEF

• Tokyo adds to training

Tokyo has added new modules to its e-learning platform to celebrate Japan’s reopening. The training programme, which launched in September 2022, now provides further modules with details on post-Covid recommendations and new activities as a result of the Olympic and Paralympic Games Tokyo 2020 legacy, such as behindthe-scenes tours of the Japan National Stadium. Gotokyo.org

• Lapland 24 goes on sale

Kong returns with global campaign

Hong

Hong Kong is hoping to entice visitors with a new global promotion campaign entitled ‘Hello Hong Kong’ which includes a giveaway of 500,000 free air tickets.

The campaign sends the message that Hong Kong is back with new experiences awaiting visitors, in light of all entry restrictions to China being lifted in January.

To further entice bookings, 500,000 free tickets are being given away by the Airport Authority Hong Kong through three homebased carriers namely Cathay Pacific Airways, Hong Kong Express and Hong Kong Airlines, starting from March.

Visitors can also take advantage of welcoming offers put together by the HKTB and the tourism and hospitality sectors. Among which are at least one million “Hong Kong Goodies” – visitor consumption vouchers of value over HK$100 each – or a cash voucher to be redeemed in the transportation, culinary and retail sectors, and attractions. discoverhongkong.com

JG Travel Group offers royal treatment

The JG Travel Group has launched a new coach break offering customers the chance to celebrate the King’s Coronation Day.

Available through the Just Go! Holidays and National Holidays brands, the tour will travel to London to experience the crowning of King Charles III and Camilla, Queen Consort.

With a range of pick up points available, the new break has been designed to offer free time in London on this historic day, enabling passengers to join the crowds for the procession at the Mall or line the streets on the way to Westminster Abbey. The three-day break departs on May 5 and includes return coach travel from selected pick-up points, two night’s b/b accommodation and coach transfers into London. An en-route visit to a place of interest is also included on the first day. The tour is priced from £199pp based on two sharing. justgoholidays.com/agents

Inghams has put its seven-night 2024/25 Lapland experience holidays on sale. With 52% of winter 23/24 experiences already booked, Inghams says holidaymakers need to book early to secure popular dates. Prices starting at £699pp for a sevennight break to Villa Armas Cabins in Ylläs departing January 19 2025. inghams.co.uk

• Vueling adds Spain route

Vueling will launch a new route between London Gatwick and Alicante as part of its summer schedule this year. The new connection will have three weekly frequencies on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays and will start on March 28. vueling.com

• New direct Florida flight

Norse Atlantic Airways will commence a non-stop service between London Gatwick and Fort Lauderdale from May 26 2023. This will be the first direct flight from the UK into Fort Lauderdale since BA and Norwegian discontinued the route in 2019. visitlauderdale.com

CroisiEurope’s decade offer

CroisiEurope has released details of a special 10th anniversary offer which is valid on all 2023 five- and six-day Gironde cruises.

The offer includes: Up to £330 discount per person on all 2023 departures, a choice of free deck upgrade or no single supplement on all April 2023 departures, a choice of no single supplement or free cruise for children up to 16 years old on all July and August 2023 departures, excursions included on all 2023 departures and all meals including local specialities.

Complimentary excursions include:

1. The Bassins des Lumières, a unique digital exhibition space located in a former submarine base built by the Germans during the occupation.

2. Discovering the Médoc with an overview of the prestigious appellations of this worldfamous wine region.

3. Blaye and the Route de la Corniche to discover old fishermen’s houses on stilts and a guided tour of the citadel in Blaye.

4. A guided tour of Saint-Émilion including the underground monuments and a troglodytic site with its monolithic church followed by visit to a family-owned vineyard with a wine tasting.

CroisiEurope has also introduced a new optional excursion featuring three days

in Biarritz to enjoy its culinary traditions and its architectural heritage. Highlights include a full-day excursion to the Basque Country taking in Esplette for a tour and traditional Basque lunch; a tour of the village of Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port followed by a tasting of Irouléguy wine; and a guided tour of Bayonne with a visit to a salted-meat workshop and traditional Basque lunch in a local cider house.

To further target UK growth, CroisiEurope (as of March 1) is now selling flight-inclusive packages in the UK for the first time, thanks to a new dedicated call centre. The operator is also increasing its sales team in order to build relationships with new and existing trade partners. croisieurope.co.uk

NEWS IN BRIEF

• New Capital Region guide

Find the 2023 Capital Region USA Holiday Guide with this issue of Selling Travel. The guide is a great tool to help plan a holiday to the region, from the beaches of Maryland to the mountains of Virginia and the cosmopolitan city of Washington, DC, bursting with U.S. history. Agents can tailor a trip to suit their client with ideas on family-friendly fun, must have culinary experiences, small town discoveries and picture perfect byways as well as detailed itinerary suggestions. capitalregionusa.org

• Cook Islands in demand

Jetstar is to increase its non-stop service from Sydney to Rarotonga to three times a week due to demand. Jetstar’s first non-stop flight from Sydney commences on June 29. Three services per week will operate between July 4 and 24 October and in December 2023 and January 2024. jetstar.com

Shearings shows off Signature tours

Shearings has boosted its upmarket Signature Collection with the addition of eight tours.

The ‘Signature Collection’ is a premium version of the UK tours, primarily featuring four-star hotels ranging from Victorian country houses to city hotels, offering facilities such as spas and swimming pools.

The new additions include ‘York, the Dales and Harrogate’ afternoon tea, staying at the four-star DoubleTree by Hilton Harrogate Majestic Hotel and Spa; ‘Pretty Peak District, Chatsworth and Lyme Park’, based at the Old Hall Hotel in Buxton which dates back to 1573; and ‘Edinburgh Castle and the Scottish Borders’, staying at the Barony Castle Hotel. Holidays start from £449pp for five-days

and include air-conditioned coach travel, hotel accommodation with breakfast and evening meals, and excursions.

For a limited time only, agents can secure bookings for 2023 and 2024 for a £1pp deposit, with nothing more to pay until six weeks before departure.

Shearings’ Head of Retail Sales, Ashley Dellow, said: “Shearings Signature Collection, along with our Warner Hotel Breaks, are our premium products, appealing to those looking for an indulgent UK break with luxurious touches and superb hotel facilities to enjoy. The tours are a perfect suggestion for celebratory breaks!”

Meanwhile the Leger Shearings Group (LSG) celebrated a record-breaking January

2023, showing 86% growth, over the same month last year. Leger Holidays and Shearings’ tours to Holland, featuring the famous Dutch Bulbfields, proved to be the January best seller. shearings.com