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More than meets the eye
Oman
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❏ Mastercard ❏ Visa NEWS Japan’s slow recovery China travel boom Profile: Hafiz Hashim Tourism Malaysia’s new Auckland director shares his plans for the future
FEATURES 10 Brisbane’s back It has been a challenging year but Brisbane is back on its feet
13 Theme parks The benefits of buying before flying
15 More than meets the eye Find out how trade are key to unlocking
Oman offers a taste of traditional Arabia and the perfect partner to Dubai
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18 Something old, something new
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SUPPLEMENT 15 Pull-out cruising guide
Dubai’s secrets
1
editorial
Cover shot: Zighy Bay, Oman. Source: World Journeys
A whole new
old world As one of the most recent entries into the global
tourism market, Dubai has amassed a vast offering of attractions, appeals and accommodation options in a short time. It has big name restaurants, luxury shopping and the world’s tallest buildings not to mention indoor
editor: Rebecca Williams Ph:+64 21 667 377 Email: rebeccaw@mediaweb.co.nz
skiing, dune bashing, sunset cruises and cultural tours. For Kiwis, the unparalleled access to big brand
JOURNALIST: Hayley Barnett Ph:+64 22 030 0472 Email: hayleyb@mediaweb.co.nz ad sales: Julianne Iudica Ph:+64 21 169 3541 Email: juliannei@mediaweb.co.nz DESIGNER: Bex Mikaere PUBLISHED BY:
shopping is certainly a draw card, but Dubai is more than a stopover. In this issue we look at how the tourism board hopes to change perseptions of the destination and the role that trade will play in Dubai’s coming of age. We also look at Oman, a perfect complement to Dubai with its rich heritage and varied landscapes. It has been a busy month in the Traveltrade offices as we have also pulled our annual cruising guide together. This year we present a bumper edition featuring
PUBLISHER: Toni Myers MANAGING EDITOR: Graham Hawkes
our product chart along with the latest news and product updates. Cruising is the largest growth industry in travel and the most common thing
Group SALES MANAGER: Lisa Morris
I heard when talking to cruise experts was QUALIFY clients correctly before
PRODUCTION MANAGER: Fran Marshall
vast range of product available, every little bit helps I’m sure. We’ll also make this
ADVERTISING COORDINATOR: Sharon Robson Ph:+64 9 419 2259 Email: ads@mediaweb.co.nz
shipping them off. I hope this supplement helps with that somewhat. With such a supplement available online so you can refer to it anytime or send it onto clients. Please do contact me if you would like a few extra hard copies for your office. I haven’t cruised (yet) so I enjoyed writing (and learning) about the range of
ACCOUNTANT: Pam King Ph:+64 9 529 3024 Email: pamk@mediaweb.co.nz
products on offer, especially the niche adventure product and luxury options that
CREDIT CONTROL: Gladys Hooker Ph:+64 9 529 3025 gladysh@mediaweb.co.nz
when you’re suggesting something new to some well-travelled clients.
CIRCULATION/SUBSCRIPTIONS: Sue McDiarmid Ph: +649 529 3027
are out there. Uncovering some of these cruising gems for you, I hope, will help Also in this issue, Hayley updates the theme parks market and finds out how agents can make the most out of ticket sales. She also looks at Brisbane’s regeneration after a hard year. With new developments, renovated hotels and
mediaweb: Mediaweb,
Freepost 288,
some great new products coming online things are looking good for the city.
PO Box 5544, Wellesley St, Auckland 1141 Phone: +64 9 529 3000 Fax: +64 9 529 3001 Email: info@mediaweb.co.nz
October/November 2011 | www.traveltrade.co.nz
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Rebecca Williams NZ Traveltrade editor Email: rebeccaw@mediaweb.co.nz Phone: 021 667 377 facebook.com/nztraveltrade Sign up for our free weekly newsletter at www.traveltrade.co.nz
Symbols of Integrity in Publishing
2
news
Tokyo
Autumn is Japan’s most colourful season
Japan’s
slow recovery
It is more than six months since Japan’s
making opportunities to places like Phuket, Bali
of the year, which will include television, online
devastating tsunami and the New Zealand
and Vietnam because of the low cost carriers
and print campaigns.
market continues to languish.
coming out of Christchurch.”
House of Travel (HOT) spokesperson
According to Japan National Tourism
Yanatchkova said the famils were a way to reassure agents it was business as usual
Brent Thomas said Kiwi travel to the area has
Office (JNTO) figures, foreign visitor numbers
in popular destinations such as Hokkaido,
significantly dropped throughout 2011.
decreased for April and May by 62.5 per cent
Nagano, Kyoto and Tokyo.
numbers are down 24 per cent in July. “That number is only going to get worse until we get past the anniversary of the tsunami and then I suspect we will start to see an improvement,” said Thomas. In the meantime, he said HOT would focus on promoting other desintations in Asia, which are experiencing a surge in popularity.
(295,826 people) and 50.4 per cent (357,783 people) respectively. However despite the dismal stats, JNTO has put a positive spin on things. “From the figures, you can see that although it is slow people are starting to travel to Japan again,” said JNTO Australia spokesperson Viara Yanatchkova. Yanatchkova admitted that the New Zealand
“Although it looks like bookings for this year’s ski season may not be as good as last year, we hope that FIT will recover quicker,” said Yanatchkova. “We hope that speedier recovery will be seen with the Sakura tours (cherry blossom tours) for spring in April 2012.” The New Zealand Government travel advisory website, safetravel.govt.nz, is advising Kiwis against travel within 30 kilometres of the
Kiwi travel to Thailand has increased 44 per
market has not been a priority in tourism
Fukushima nuclear power plant and in areas
cent since May, Malaysia is up 39 per cent and
recovery efforts and the tourism board was
designated as Planned Evacuation Zones by
Vietnam is up 33 per cent.
focussed on Australia.
the Japanese authorities. Kiwis are advised to
“From a leisure point of view, Japan hasn’t
Around 60 Aussie agents have been invited
been something that is on our radar. Part of
on familiarisation trips and the Sydney JNTO
that has been because of the fantastic holiday
office recently received plans for the remainder
exercise caution and be alert to their own safety around the rest of the country. – Hayley Barnett
3
www.traveltrade.co.nz | October/November 2011
New Zealand Statistics show Kiwi visitor
NEWS Select a seat The Virgin Australia Group has introduced advanced seating options, allowing passengers to choose their preferred seat up to 14 days in advance (conditions apply). Agents can submit generic seat requests via SSRs’ (NSST, NSSW, NSSA) and VA will assign the best available
China could surpass Rarotonga as Kiwi’s preferred
seats and send a confirmation response
holiday hot spot.
including seat number back, via return SSR, to
House of Travel spokesperson Brent Thomas
the booking.
said passenger numbers to China – one of the
This change will apply on all DJ operated flights
world’s biggest manufacturing hubs - were up eight
including VA marketed codeshare flights.
per cent (to July) making it the sixth most popular
Additional benefits are available to Velocity
holiday destination for Kiwis after Rarotonga.
Frequent Flyer members.
Kenya earlybirds
“Kiwi business travelers go [to China] first either as suppliers or customers and then they
CZ’s new A380
come back with their families on a leisure trip, so
Kenya Airways (KQ) has announced earlybird
it’s becoming much more of a holiday destination,”
is high mainly because of school holidays and,
fares from Auckland to almost 50 cities in
said Thomas. “China, once upon a time, was
of course, the Christmas period. In January,
Africa and the Middle East, via Bangkok or
attracting your more adventurous-type customer
we expect passenger traffic to be high going
Hong Kong.
and now it has started to become much more for
on to China as the Spring Festival (a Chinese
The economy class return fares, divided into two
the mainstream market.
traditional festival) is held around then. So it will
travel zones, start at $2313 (including taxes)
“At this rate, China could go well past
for flights to Nairobi plus Mombasa (Kenya) and
Rarotonga as one of New Zealand’s favourite
Addis Ababa (Ethiopia). All of the new fares
destinations.”
be a very busy time for us.” Inbound the news is also good, China is one of New Zealand’s fastest growing visitor markets with 22 per cent growth for the year to July 2011.
are available for sale until November 30 and
The major catalyst for the demand, China
departures between February 1 and June 30,
Southern Airlines (CZ), will increase its flights
SkyCity Auckland said the hotel and casino has
2012.
from Auckland to Guangzhou from three weekly
been reaping the benefits.
to daily from October 30 and is already eying up
New Thai route Thai Airways’ new service to Brussels, Belgium
new routes. CZ New Zealand general manager Henry Dai
“Before CZ began direct flights from Guangzhou, China was a market that was relatively untapped for us,” said SkyCity
from Bangkok will begin November 17. Flight
confirmed the airline is considering Wellington,
spokesperson Scott Campbell. “The advantage
TG934 will depart on Tuesdays, Thursdays and
Christchurch and Queenstown routes.
for SkyCity is that they offer four classes with the
Saturdays at 0030, arriving in Brussels at 0700
“We will wait for the market to grow a bit
option of first, business, premium and economy
the same morning. Flight TG935 from Brussels
more, which we expect it will, and then set about
so that gives us the opportunity to bring VIPs
will depart the same days at 1330, arriving in
extending the routes to other cities,” said Dai.
down from China and other parts of Asia and
Bangkok at 0620 hours the following day.
Expedia commission Expedia TAAP have increased the commission
In the meantime, CZ are in discussions with Air New Zealand to codeshare on connecting domestic flights. It appears there is more than enough business
on air bookings when booked as part of a
to sustain the new routes with CZ’s flights filled at
package. Expedia offers great discounts on
76 per cent on average.
air/land packages booked through Expedia
October/November 2011 | www.traveltrade.co.nz
China travel boom
“We’re expecting a lot of growth over
they would still get the same type of experience as if they had their own jet.” SkyCity recently upped their VIP offering, launching the Horizon Suites specifically for Asian high rollers in July. In the next issue of Traveltrade, we will include
websites. Agents will now earn 10 per cent or
November and December this year, which is the
the latest travel trends, product news and hot
more on land content and 1.5 per cent on air
high season for this market,” said Dai. “Traffic
spots in China. Hitting desks November 28.
content no matter what carrier is booked. As a trade off, Expedia will eliminate commissions on stand-alone air.
NZ refreshes site
Sri Lanka visa charges
Air New Zealand is making it easier for
Visitors to Sri Lanka can now apply for their visa online from anywhere in the world but they will have
customers to score cheap deals through
to pay for the privilege. Until now, visitors received a free visa.
enhancements to www.airnz.co.nz. Enhancements include the addition of a twomonth calendar helper and a new low fare alert service. The refresh also makes it easier for customers to book non-flight related products
From January 1, 2012 visitors will have apply in advance online and pay a processing fee of US$50 for tourists, US$60 for business travellers and US$25 for transit passengers. The visa will be valid for one month and allows multiple entries. Longer visits will be subject to additional fees. The application process takes a few days.
such as accommodation, travel insurance, rental cars, taxi transfers and campervans.
4
www.eta.gov.lk
TIA pushes for change Tourism needs to be front of mind for the
touring to get more of these agents to New
incoming government if we are to increase
Zealand. Famil tours are extremely expensive
expenditure and visitor numbers in New
to run and it is important for more budgetary
Zealand, the Tourism Industry Association
resource to be allocated to such initiatives.
New Zealand (TIA) has said.
It’s not just the tour company that would
TIA highlighted what they believe to be
win, it’s also the hundreds of suppliers across
tourism’s top priorities in their Tourism
the country that would receive the benefit of
Future Statement 2011-2014 The Visitor
increased sales that these agents put through
Economy: Creating Wealth, which was
on their return. This needs to be a major focus.”
released recently. TIA chief executive Tim Cossar said the statement has generated a lot of discussion among the industry and political parties. “We’re using this to make a statement for
Another major point on the TIA’s Future Tourism Statement is to boost domestic travel by ‘Mondayising’ Waitangi and Anzac Day. Said Cossar: “It has been very tough for domestic travel lately with issues like the
the new government,” said Cossar. “There’s
Christchurch earthquake, the Bay of Plenty
been good interest from politicians and I think
oil spill and the fact that the New Zealand
we’re going to see a lot more once the Rugby
dollar value has sent Kiwis offshore for their
World Cup is over.”
holidays.
Top of the list for TIA, and something that
“One of the interesting things to come
has hit a nerve with local operators, is foreign
out of plans to improve this is what we call
government-imposed taxes, such the UK’s Air
Mondayising of Waitangi Day and Anzac
Passenger Duty.
Day. The more public holidays that fall on a
“What we’ve seen with the UK’s Air
weekday the better it is for holiday travel, for
Passenger Duty is that it does no favours to
getting people moving. We note with interest
a destination like New Zealand,” said Cossar.
that our Australian counterparts have pretty
“It’s a tax that penalises us because we’re a
much done that already and we also note that
long-haul destination, and we need to protect
those are their busiest weekends of the year
some of our Pacific Island neighbours who
and are very good for moving people around.”
are trying to develop their tourism industry
One local operator, Time Unlimited Tours
as well. We’re lobbying pretty hard for our
owner Neill Sperath, said part of the statement
government to push the UK foreign secretary
should include eliminating surcharges over
into litigating that.”
public holidays.
APT Group New Zealand operating
“Mondayising is a good idea to get people
manager Ajay Vagha said there is a lot of local
moving around the country, but we need to
support for TIA’s statement, especially for
take into account the additional expenses
their decision to lobby against taxes, but he
every year for businesses,” said Sperath.
said APT would like to also see a focus on
“Nobody has to open but they shouldn’t have
getting foreign agents into the country.
to punish clients if they are.”
“In our market we strongly agree with
Cossar also mentioned making
the TIA’s push for action against the travel
international travel easier by improving visa
taxes introduced in the UK, especially as that
processing and extending the SmartGate
market is already so depressed with their
system to markets beyond Australia makes up
economic situation – it’s a good move from
a large part of the statement.
TIA,” said Vagha. “Although we realise we
“Given the size and the volumes that we’re
have little influence over another nation’s tax
moving, SmartGate is really a trail-blazer in
laws, it is important to note for the incoming
this area,” said Cossar. “It’s about reducing
government that this remains a stumbling
processing times so that the visitor experience
block. But we would also like to see a bit more
at the border is enhanced. If we can get that
of a drive for collaboration between Tourism
in other markets, that would be fantastic.” –
New Zealand and the major players in group
Hayley Barnett
news
Book Bentours online Bentours has launched a new website that includes an online booking system. The user-friendly site allows agents to log on and make bookings with Bentours in NZD, 24 hours a day. Agents can also monitor the status of their bookings online. The booking engine is the same system used by sister company Tempo Holidays. The website also features the latest specials and promotions, detailed product information and company details. Products are still available for booking through Bentours’ call centre and via email. www.bentours.co.nz
Profit from Facebook Online hotel distributor SiteMinder has
and selling tool and this milestone move means
made its direct reservation product,
that people can now view live inventory and
TheBookingButton, available on Facebook.
rates and book accommodation on a hotel’s
The new Facebook application is free for
Facebook page just as they would on the hotel’s
SiteMinder customers and helps hotels generate
website,” said Waterman. “Hotels can also use
tangible revenue from their Facebook page.
TheBookingButton’s online reporting system
SiteMinder partnerships manager Duncan Waterman (pictured) said the integration
to gauge how many reservations have come through their new Facebook channel. Launched in 2008, TheBookingButton is
customisable BookingButton allows hotels
would open new commission-free selling
currently used in over 60 countries, reducing
to package rooms to include extras such as
mechanism for hoteliers.
acquisition costs for some hotels by up to
breakfast, late checkout and tours to provide a
40 per cent from online bookings. The fully
value-add to every room sale.
of TheBookingButton with Facebook
“Facebook is a very powerful communication
Asia-Pacific Incentives & Meetings Expo Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre Melbourne, Australia 21-22 February 2012 | aime.com.au
October/November 2011 | www.traveltrade.co.nz
The Asia-Pacific Incentives & Meetings Expo (AIME) is recognised as the premier event in the Asia-Pacific region for event organisers.
As a VIP buyer in the industry, we would like to invite you to apply today. Benefits of being an AIME Hosted Buyer include: Complimentary airfares, airport transfers, 3 to 5 star accommodation, pre-scheduled appointments with exhibitors you choose to meet with, pre and post touring options around Victoria and Australia, unrivalled networking opportunities and much, much more. Visit aime.com.au for qualification details.
You can attend AIME in a number of different ways: As a Fully Hosted Buyer (with airfares included), choose to attend either one (new option for 2012) or both days. As a Semi Hosted Buyer, choose to attend one or both days.
For more details and to apply today for AIME’s VIP Hosted Buyer Program visit aime.com.au/apply AIME IS PART OF THE REED TRAVEL EXHIBITIONS MEETINGS AND EVENTS PORTFOLIO
6
AIME IS OWNED BY MCVB
AIME IS MANAGED BY RTE
Queen of the desert
The Indian Pacific will host a 24-hour Mardi Gras themed journey across the Outback departing Departing Adelaide on March 2. The celebration party will arrive into Sydney Central Station in style at 1015 in time for the annual Mardi Gras street parade on March 3. Fares are A$656 per person (twin share) in classic Gold Service or A$1059 per person (twin share) in luxury Platinum Service. All meals are included in the ticket price, along with lounge entertainment and an exclusive Priscilla Queen of the Desert experience at the famous Palace Hotel in Broken Hill. Tickets are limited and expected to book out quickly.
WIN two adult passes to the Gold Coast Village Roadshow
www.railplus.co.nz
Folks
Steve Sanderson
theme park of your choice. Choose from Warner Bros Movie World, Sea World or Wet’n’Wild.
Navi Gagalia
Tiffany McWatt
Wellington Airport is pleased to
joins the team after 12 years as a kayak
announce Steve Sanderson as its new
and rafting guide.
CEO. Sanderson has been the CEO for Queenstown Airport since May 2007. He will commence the new role from 2012.
Here’s your chance to check out Movie World’s new Green Lantern rollercoaster, with the steepest drop in the Southern Hemisphere, which opens this Christmas. Or perhaps you’d like to meet Spongebob Squarepants, who is coming to Sea World in December. While you’re there, you may also like to walk on ice at the new penguin enclosure and catch the new Jet Rescue Coaster ride.
Les Morgan as general manager. He
If you choose Wet’n’Wild, you’ll have to try the Tornado superslide that starts from a 15-metre high platform and blasts down a 40-metre long tunnel.
replaces Stuart Long who sadly passed
For the latest Theme Park news see page 13.
Sudima Auckland Airport has appointed
Navi Gagalia has been appointed to
away in July of this year. Morgan’s
the position of business development
experience includes the hotel manager’s
manager – wholesale at Sofitel Fiji. He
role at Duxton Hotel Auckland.
has worked for several hotel brands in Karen Bolinger has been appointed
Regency and spent ten years at the
to the position of CEO of Melbourne
Warwick Fiji Resort & Spa.
Convention + Visitors Bureau (MCVB).
In addition, Sofitel has also appointed
In her most recent role, Bolinger was
Tiffany McWatt to the position of
the general manager strategy and
conference sales manager. McWatt
marketing for the Royal Agricultural
previously worked in Australia at the
Society of NSW where she was
Sheraton Mirage in Port Douglas as
responsible for the development and
conference sales executive.
implementation of strategic plans to
support the growth of all brands, most
Michael-Paul Abbott is the new
notably the Sydney Royal Easter Show
Hukafalls Jet operations manager. Abbott
and the Sydney Showground.
www.traveltrade.co.nz | October/November 2011
Fiji including Shangri-La and the Hyatt
Take your pick and email: rebeccaw@mediaweb.co.nz You can also enter online www.traveltrade.co.nz
Congratulations
Michael-Paul abbott
les morgan
karen bolinger
to last month’s winners TravelSIM: Sue Sutherland and Katie Baker Shark Experience at Kelly Tarltons: Alan Page Formule 1 Auckland Airport: Jenny Bennett
7
PROFILE
New life, new focus, new possibilities
When Tourism Malaysia announced its Melbourne office was to relocate to Auckland recently director of the office, Hafiz Hashim, promptly uprooted his family and moved across the Tasman to take care of one of Malaysia’s fastest growing tourism markets. What Hashim and his family have found is a
exciting as I have the chance to meet with
positive it will grow with the right strategy
many different types of people from many
and direction. This year, we are targeting
different backgrounds.
73,000 arrivals from New Zealand and we aim to increase the Average Length of Stay (ALOS) from 9.5 to 10 days. With new budget airlines flying to Malaysia, we are confident the numbers will be achieved.
What sort of challenges do you foresee in the future?
slower pace and more relaxed lifestyle where he
Despite the economic slowdown and
can spend time with his family discovering the
recession predicted for next year, I believe
great outdoors and work on his golf swing.
the market will still grow and there is a lot of
However, exploring the rest of the country
potential. We will need to revive the market and
What are your main goals in this position? My main goal is to make sure that every Kiwi knows about Malaysia and will choose it as their next holiday destination. Another is to help the airlines increase their flight frequency to Malaysia. If this is achievable, it means the demand has increased.
What do you like to do outside of work?
will be on hold for a while as Hashim works
create more promotional activities to raise New
I’m a keen golfer. I try to play at least once a
hard to build and maintain close relationships
Zealand’s level of awareness. Another challenge
week with my local buddies. Golf is cheap here
with the New Zealand trade.
we need to be prepared for are catastrophes
and the weather is very good. Other than that, I
such as disease outbreaks that will stop tourists
like to garden and travel.
New Zealand arrivals to Malaysia increased five per cent last year, with 66,152 Kiwis
from travelling. The industry is very sensitive
holidaying in the country. Tourism Malaysia has
and we need to be prepared to face these types
set a target of 73,000 for 2011 and it is hoped
of things.
the increased presence in New Zealand will help to exceed that. Hashim believes that now is the perfect time to set up shop with low cost carriers like JetStar
How have you settled into your new role? I’m very excited to be given this
and AirAsia making Malaysia more accessible
responsibility and to be the first director in this
and affordable for Kiwis.
newly established office. Not many National
As well as plans to upskill agents with
October/November 2011 | www.traveltrade.co.nz
as it is an emerging market for us and we are
Tourism Organisations (NTOs) are operating in
a series of road shows in the near future,
this market, but we are confident that numbers
other projects include an online marketing
will grow steadily.
campaign with a new website soon to be unveiled and a Facebook page to be supported by a consumer promotion. Hayley Barnett asks Hashim a few questions about the opportunities and challenges his new base will bring and what he thinks of his new home.
What do you see as being the most important tasks for Tourism Malaysia in New Zealand? First of all, I am very proud to be establishing our organisation in New Zealand
8
Tell us a bit about your career history where have you worked and what other roles have you worked in in the past? I joined Tourism Malaysia in 1991 as a tourism officer. During my career I have worked in various divisions at Tourism Malaysia, namely in the domestic division,
What is your favourite Malaysian Dish? My favourite Malaysian dish is Nasi Lemak and Roti Canai (Malaysian pancake) that you eat with curry. In Malaysia, these are available 24 hours a day.
Where do you like to holiday in Malaysia and why? Malaysia has a lot of fun and exciting destinations. I always love to go to the beach areas of Langkawi, Sabah and Sarawak, or along the east coast of Malaysia.
What advice would you give to someone who aspires to be in your position? In this type of role you need to
marketing (US and Europe desk), industrial
demonstrate leadership skills, but you need to
development, the convention division and
find your own leadership style - to identify a
also in the Singapore office as deputy director
style that works in the context of your team,
as well as director of the Melbourne office.
and demonstrate interpersonal skills when
The role I’m in now is very interesting and
leading in a group situation.
,
Hafiz Hashim
brisbane
Brisbane’s back It has been a challenging year for Brisbane,
but the city seems to be back on its feet with a long list of new developments. Although not
friends and relatives (VFR) market
driving holidaymakers away from
who we continue to educate on the
their favourite Australian city
range of experiences available.”
destinations to try something new.
But this still remains a challenge for the Aussie city. Although
Brisbane’s recent developments
Melbourne, the Brisbane tourism industry tells
Brisbane is promoted as a short-
and the amount of events the city
break destination, Kiwis tend to
is attracting.
Hayley Barnett it’s on the right track and all that’s left is to get the word out to attract more of their primary market.
take off to the beaches rather than
“Sydney and Melbourne might
head into the city, said House of
still be the front runners but
Travel Australia product manager
Brisbane is doing a lot of work in
Julia Paley.
that space. For us, it’s a case of
“Visitors either turn left or
October/November 2011 | www.traveltrade.co.nz
Paley said that may change with
yet competing with the likes of Sydney and
watching what’s happening.” Brisbane Marketing’s McBean
Brisbane is slowly welcoming Kiwi
recently opened or are due to
right. It’s only about 10 per cent
tourists back after a bumpy year.
open soon,” said McBean. “Twelve
of people that actually stay in
said the destination was anchored
Flood damage caused by cyclone
Brisbane hotels have been or are
Brisbane - quite a small number.”
by key cultural and sporting events
Yasi last summer and the global
currently being refurbished with
It is the corporate market that
financial recession both took their
all to be completed by March
keeping the city busy during the
toll on the city, but according to key
2012. We’re also attracting
week. Paley said this has lead to
tourism representatives Brisbane
internationally renowned events
more deals for weekend tourists
Zealand traveller’s perceptions
has bounced back with new
such as musicals Mary Poppins
but - on the downside - keeps
about Brisbane as a great
offerings, from hip new restaurants
and Rock of Ages, exhibition
them away during the week when
destination for wining and dining,
to major events and attractions.
Matisse: Drawing Life, the
demand pushes the prices up.
shopping and arts and culture.”
Brisbane Marketing leisure tourism director Cathie McBean said the entire region was looking better than ever. “The Brisbane and greater Brisbane tourism industry has
Brisbane International tennis and
“The hotels themselves are all
and offered visitors the best of both worlds. “We want to help shape New
busy mid-week meaning the rates
Latest developments
are high in that period and the
There is a new dining destination
remains Brisbane’s primary source
hotels are quiet in the weekends.
in South Bank. The river’s edge
market for international travellers.
From a market perspective it’s an
precinct, with views of the city,
interesting one because you have to
will introduce five new kitchens
the World Theatre Festival.” McBean said New Zealand
“As well as the short break
well and truly bounced back
holiday makers, Brisbane attracts
focus on your weekends and from a
in the coming year. Melbourne
with many new and refurbished
a large proportion of New Zealand
rates perspective that’s not great.”
institution Stokehouse will be
hotels, restaurants and bars having
travellers through the visiting
10
Photo Credits || ALL: Brisbane Marketing
Another challenge for agents is
the flagship tenant, followed by
The Gallery of Modern Art
South Bank
The heart of Brisbane
Tangalooma Wrecks on Moreton Island
Cove Bar and Dining, The Jetty
Channel, where sightings of
MEL/BNE.DRI1668 Add-on Travel fares areTrade
South Bank, Popolo and an as
dolphins, turtles, dugongs and
available either return or one-way
yet unnamed French a-la-carte
other marine life are common.
restaurant.
Among the islands on a typical
The Brisbane Convention and
day’s itinerary are Coochiemudlo,
Exhibition Centre (BCEC) is
Macleay, Karra Garra, Peel, Bird
currently undergoing a major
and Goat Island.
makeover. BCEC will expand
and Sciencentre, State Library of
additional 52 per cent of floor
Queensland and the Queensland
space. This will provide the centre
Performing Arts Centre (QPAC)
with the capacity to host an
make up the official cultural
additional 250 events per annum.
precinct of the city, working
C
individually and together to provide
additional meeting rooms, a new
an assorted calendar of events from
ballroom, an outdoor terrace as
live theatre, comedy, ballet, visual
well as two auditoriums, designed
arts, festivals and an educational
specifically for smaller events
programme for children. This
and restaurant and retail space at
summer the QPAC will offer the CY
ground level.
Disney musical Mary Poppins.
M
Y
CM
MY
CMY
K
Bay has arrived with the recent
The Judith Wright Centre of
launch of Bay and Islands Tours.
Contemporary Arts, the Brisbane
The new tourism endeavour
Powerhouse and La Boite Theatre.
provides a full day experience
Includes Free Additional Driver, Unlimited Kilometres, Collision Damage Cover, Theft Protection, Liability Insurance, Vehicle Registration Fee, Premium Location Fee, GST & 24hr Roadside Assistance. www.traveltrade.co.nz | October/November 2011
Clients can also head to
AUSTRALIA
Brisbane from $65* per day
The new centre will boast 18
A new way to explore Moreton
with all SQ fares.
CAR RENTAL
The Queensland Museum
along Grey Street and include an
NZ AD.ai 17/10/11 3:38 PM and can1be used in conjunction
*Price shown in NZD and subject to currency fluctuations and change without notice. Price per day based on 7 days rental of an economy car (ECAR) for collections 16 Dec 11-22 Dec 11 and from 05 Jan 12-31 Mar 12. Excludes charges and taxes imposed directly by third parties. Further conditions apply contact DriveAway for details.
touring the waterways of Moreton
DJ’s Trans-Tasman add ons
Bay Marine Park.
Singapore Airlines (SQ) is offering
Bay and Islands Tours embarks
passengers the opportunity to
at Raby Bay Jetty, providing a link
travel Trans-Tasman on Virgin
to Cleveland Railway Station. The
Australia (DJ) services, then
Call 0800 88 55 90 or go to www.driveaway.co.nz
tour travels through the Rainbow
connect onto SQ services ex SYD/
ABN 67 107 041 912 Lic no 2TA 6087
11
e n a b s i r B Known locally as Bris Vegas, the city is renowned for being the arts capital of Queensland. WHAT IS THERE TO SEE & DO? • Must sees are the Southbank Parklands, Art Gallery and the Brisbane River
Kangaroo Point Cliffs
Brisbane’s CityCat
Brisbane’s top 10 1
Spend an afternoon at South Bank
South Bank offers 40 acres of leisure activities.
or Saturday night. For raw, night-time energy, Fortitude Valley is the place to be. Here you’ll find
Wander through the gardens, rollerblade by the
Brisbane’s best selection of chic bars and urban
riverside, visit the markets, have a picnic or indulge
clubs including the Bowery Bar, Family, Bar Zuri,
• Take the Croc Express to Australia Zoo and explore the wildlife theme park famous for its crocodiles
in some of the fine food experiences offered by the
La Ruche and Cloudland, plus a range of live music
local restaurants, cafés and pubs.
venues hosting local, national and international acts
• Take the Sunshine Coast and Noosa tour and experience the magnificent beaches
climb up Brisbane’s iconic Story Bridge. Reach the
Spend a day indulging in retail pleasures. Start
top and be rewarded with 360-degree views of the
with the Queen Street Mall and Queens Plaza, then
city, river and surrounding mountains.
explore the Valley. End the day at the James Street or
• Go to Fraser Island for the day and discover the freshwater lakes and stunning rainforest creatures just off Waikiki • Visit Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, Australia’s oldest and largest koala sanctuary and cuddle a koala
2
3
Catch a CityCat
For an affordable outing and new perspective on Brisbane, join local commuters and cruise the river
7
Shop ‘til you drop
Emporium precincts for A-list labels and guilty treats. 8
Cuddle a koala at Lone Pine
Get up close and personal with Australia’s native flora
on a CityCat. Watch the world go by as you head
and fauna at the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. Watch
down river to Newstead or Brett’s Wharf or head
the Eagles soar in the amazing Birds of Prey show or
up river to Brisbane’s famous Regatta Hotel or the
experience what it’s like on an Australian farm during
University of Queensland.
the sheep shearing shows. The Sanctuary is also home to
4
WHAT DO WE OFFER?
Climb the Story Bridge
For the ultimate Brisbane high take the 2.5-hour
most days of the week.
Get some outdoor action
Get active at Brisbane’s Riverlife Adventure Centre. Abseil or rock climb Kangaroo Point’s
three Tasmanian Devils and Barak the Platypus. 10
Take a day trip to Moreton Bay
Take a short drive to Brisbane’s coast and head out
• 9 hotels in Brisbane including the 3 star Ibis Brisbane and the 5 star Sofitel Brisbane Central both in the city centre.
200-million-year-old cliffs, paddle the river in a
to one of Queensland’s best kept secrets – Moreton
kayak, or cycle along the riverside pathways and
Bay. North Stradbroke and Moreton Islands are
floating boardwalk.
havens of pristine white beaches and native wildlife.
• Looking to travel by rail around Queensland? We offer overnight rail trips to the Whitsundays, Townsville and Cairns.
The Jan Powers Farmers Markets (Manly,
• A selection of 7 tours that allow you to fully experience everything that Brisbane has to offer.
Packages can be booked via i-CREATE or by calling 0800 652 441
5
Spend a morning at a Fresh Food Market
Enjoy whale-watching (June to November), surfing, four-wheel driving, quad-biking, sand-tobogganing, bushwalking and camping. And be sure to head to
Mitchelton, Reddacliff Place and Brisbane
Tangalooma Wild Dolphin Resort to join one of the
Powerhouse) are the place to be for flowers, cheese,
nightly dolphin-feeding sessions.
yoghurt, poultry, meats and homemade goodies. The Rocklea Markets and Northey Street Organic
10
Soak up some art and culture
Market are ideal spots for the A to Z of certified
Spend a few hours wandering the inspiring
organic goodies. Vintage apparel and pre-loved
corridors of Queensland Art Gallery’s Gallery of
items can be found at the Valley Markets but if
Modern Art (GoMA), learn about Queensland’s
you’re looking for trendy homewares, jewellery
dinosaur history at the Queensland Museum, relax
and lifestyle products head down to the Riverside
with a book at the State Library of Queensland
Markets or South Bank Lifestyle Markets instead.
or see a show at the Queensland Performing Arts
6
Get hot and hectic in the Valley
Centre – all located in walking distance from each other in the Cultural Precinct at South Bank.
For urban groovers, a visit to Brisbane is not complete without a visit to the Valley on a Friday
Photo Credits || ALL: Brisbane Marketing
www.visitbrisbane.com.au
theme parks
SeaWorld, Gold Coast
Universal Studios, Singapore
Always buy before they fly Theme park representatives have voiced concern over the amount of Kiwis who visit theme parks unaware of potential savings and benefits if tickets are purchased before they leave home. Village Roadshow New Zealand sales manager Shelly Reilly said agents need to get the message through to their customers that its advantageous
find themselves having to come up with a plan B. “Universal Studios Singapore is extremely popular with locals and the neighboring countries, so pre booking is a must if travelling in peak periods such as school or national holidays.” Visit Britain New Zealand representative Sally Holyer said it’s likely agents will find deals suited specifically to Kiwis in the UK if they do a bit of research. “It’s definitely worth looking because, not only do Kiwis get a trade rate, you also get priority access at most attractions in the UK as well,” said Holyer. “Places like the London Eye offer free priority tickets when you pre-book.”
to buy before they fly. “There’s a huge amount of New Zealanders going through our parks who buy tickets at the door,” said Reilly. “Maybe agents don’t realise it, but their clients will save money and the agents themselves receive commission.” Village Roadshow offer multi-park tickets to Warner Bros Movie World, Sea World, Wet’n’Wild, Paradise Country and Australia Outback Spectacular as well as VIP Passes. It’s not just about the savings, said Merlin Entertainment Group marketing director Rob Smith, booking in advance means clients don’t have to wait around. “If you book in advance, we offer the ability to jump the queues and get straight in so it’s not just about the cost, it’s about the whole overall experience as well. It definitely pays to book first.” Merlin bundles their attractions into pre-booked ticket packages and offers various incentives to agents based on ticket sales across their full www.traveltrade.co.nz | October/November 2011
range of product. Merlin attractions in Australia and New Zealand are comprised of Wildlife Sydney, Sydney Aquarium, Sydney Tower Eye, Oceanworld Manly, Wildlife Hamilton Island, Kelly Tarlton’s Antarctic Encounter and Underwater World and the upcoming Madame Tussauds in Sydney (opening May 2012). At Dreamworld and WhiteWater World in the Gold Coast, clients can save A$10 (per pass) when they book an Unlimited Entry World Pass online, which gives them entry into both parks. The online ticket costs A$109.99 with the offer valid until June 22, 2012. Dreamworld has two new rides, Buzzsaw and Shockwave, both of which opened this year. It also pays to plan ahead further afield. Singapore Tourism Board director Sandra Leong said there are times during the year when Sentosa fulfils its quota for the day, and if visitors leave it to chance, they might
13
theme parks
Latest and greatest
Sea World In 2012, SeaWorld San Diego will unveil its new roller coaster Manta that will transition guests from watching rays in underwater flight into the sensation of actually being one. The park also offers free transportation from Anaheim to SeaWorld for clients who purchase
270 metres into the sky on top of the Q1 resort building in the Gold Coast.
Universal Studios Singapore Universal Studios Singapore will open a Transformers ride this December. The ride will feature high definition 3D media,
a full-priced admission ticket through Southern
visual effects and a roaming flight simulator
California Gray Line or companies who work
system integrated into a ride-car vehicle.
directly with Southern California Gray Line. At Sea World on the Gold Coast, Nickelodeon will introduce a SpongeBob SquarePants parade in December this year. The park also features a new enclosure
Sentosa’s other new additions include iFly and MegaZip.
Walt Disney Parks Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Worldwide is
Turtle Beach Resort
at Penguin Encounter, which allows guests to
joining forces with filmmaker James Cameron
Kiwis is the award-winning Turtle Beach Resort
walk on the ice.
and Fox Filmed Entertainment to bring Avatar
on the Gold Coast which is about to open a new
to Disney parks. Construction is expected to
and exciting kids activity retreat, Club Turtle.
Warner Bros Movie World The Green Lantern rollercoaster, with the steepest drop in the Southern Hemisphere, opens this Christmas at Movie World on the Gold Coast. In the UK, Warner Bros Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter is set to open next year.
SkyPoint Climb Opening this December, SkyPoint Climb will take climbers on a guided journey reaching
Launching this November, the club will
begin by 2013.
Dreaming of Turtle Beach Dreamtime Resorts have been professionally managing holiday properties in Queensland for over 15 years and are a popular choice for Kiwi
feature a range of games, activities and creative goings-on, geared around the idea of kids aged between 5 and 12 having their own relaxing zone while mum and dad relax. While qualified female carers will oversee the activities, the club will nominally be hosted by a
families. Their destinations include Cairns, Bargara, the Sunshine Coast, Brisbane and Bayside, and
trendy turtle. Club Turtle will build on existing facilities
the Gold Coast with many of the properties
for young guests which include a café, movies,
extremely popular with New Zealanders.
tennis, putt putt golf and swimming pools.
One of the biggest selling properties with
Read more www.traveltrade.co.nz
October/November 2011 | www.traveltrade.co.nz
WHITEMAN PARK . PERTH
14
0061 8 9248 1984
sales@cavershamwildlife.co.au open everyday (except xmas day)
dubai
More than meets the eye With a lot of major construction work finished and a new metro system in place, Dubai has come into its own as a cosmopolitan city and the tourism board is turning its attention to trade to promote the diversity it offers.
Dubai is more than shopping malls and tall buildings – there is something for families, thrill seekers, adventure buffs, bargain hunters and even foodies if you look beneath the surface. Rebecca Williams finds out how trade are the key to unlocking Dubai’s hidden treasures.
will help support trade shows and increase our presence in the market.” An e-newsletter is being developed to help agents sell Dubai to the relevant segments. The reason for the blitz is New Zealand’s
modern galleries throughout the city. King recommended visiting Dubai during Ramadan as the perfect way to become immersed in the local culture, gorge on authentic Arabian cuisine and experience local
importance as a source market. Visitor numbers
delights first hand. Otherwise, visiting Jumeirah
Commerce Marketing (DTCM) is keen to expand
continue to increase (2010 up 15.2 per cent with
Mosque and the Sheikh Mohammed Centre
trade knowledge and give agents the tools to
2011 tracking similarly) and King said many
of Cultural Understanding was a great way of
understand everything Dubai has to offer.
visitors are still surprised by Dubai’s offering.
getting an insight into Emirati culture and a
Dubai’s Department of Tourism and
Part of the strategy will include a social
“In addition to the rolling sand dunes and
wider understanding of Islam.
world-class beaches, the city is just a short drive
programme called Dubai Expert, which covers
away from the impressive Hajjar Mountains.
the old district of Bastakiya is the perfect
three key modules; Know Dubai (Dubai as a
The landscape is ideal for a range of action-
starting point to get a glimpse of old Dubai. A
destination and the various tourism products
adventure activities such as drives, trekking,
visit to Dubai Museum would be a great place
it offers); Sell Dubai (what makes Dubai unique
mountain biking, abseiling or rock climbing.
to take in some of the Emirate’s history.”
and how it can appeal to different segments of
On the water, Dubai has a huge range of
the market) and Add Dubai (the final step to
fabulous water sports including water skiing,
Kidzania, a place where children can get a taste
qualification).
parasailing, kite surfing, scuba diving, sailing or
of the adult world by roleplaying their future
deep-sea fishing.”
careers. At Dubai Mall, there is an Olympic
“This programme has proved to be very popular with New Zealand travel trade and
When it comes to culture, Dubai has a number
Highlights for the family market include
sized ice rink, SEGA Republic indoor theme
we will be celebrating our first round of
of historic buildings and sites that offer a glimpse
and Dubai Aquarium and Atlantis is home to
graduations in Auckland and Christchurch
of a bygone era and examples of traditional
Dolphin Bay and Aquaventure water park.
early December,” said DTCM director Julie
Arabian arts can be seen all over Dubai.
King. “We will also be planning a series of training [sessions] and sales calls in 2012, which
Photo Credits || DTCM
There is also a vibrant arts scene developing in Dubai with numerous traditional and
King said Dubai offered a safe, affordable option for families with fantastic weather. >> pg 16
15
www.traveltrade.co.nz | October/November 2011
“With its narrow lanes and tall wind towers,
media approach as well as a dedicated training
dubai continued pg 15 >> Other notable developments in the last six months include the new Green Line on the Dubai Metro, which opened in September. The new line has 16 stations spanning 22.5 km and runs through Deira and Bur Dubai - parallel to Dubai Creek. “For tourists, this is great news as it connects many parts of the old city with newly developed areas of Dubai,” said King. There are also a vast range of new hotels including One&Only The Palm (91 rooms, six mansions and four villas), Dubai International Financial Centre (341 rooms), Radisson Blu Downtown Dubai and Dubai Marina (242 rooms) and Jumeirah Zabeel Saray (600 rooms). For foodies, Dubai has a plethora of options and some serious star power. New in the mix is At.Mosphere, located on level 122 of Burj Khalifa, the highest restaurant in the world. The upscale lounge and grill is open for lunch, high tea and dinner serving up delicacies such
Dubai Dubai heritage
area
as wagyu, soft shell crab, black pepper crusted venison saddle and 36hr braised short rib. Another option is The Ivy Dubai in Emirates Towers Hotel, which is open for lunch and dinner and has a private dining room. The brassiere style menu includes soups, salads, seafood, caviar, roasts, grills and desserts. Business lunches and a comprehensive wine list are available. Both Jamie Oliver and Gordon Ramsay have set up shop in the city. Jamie’s Italian is nestled in Marina Pavilion, Dubai Festival City. The menu boasts specialities such as burger Italiano and lamb chop lollipops. Verre by Gordon Ramsay is located at Hilton Dubai Creek. The modern European menu includes lasagne of Canadian lobster, pressed terrine of foie gras and baked line-caught halibut among other treats.
Maturing market Emirates New Zealand manager Chris Lethbridge said the New Zealand market had held up well despite tough conditions this year and he expected pent up demand from Kiwis would mean good news in 2012. “The success story is the strength of the dollar against the US Dollar, Pound and Euro. The Durham is based on the US Dollar so Dubai is a very attractive place to stay with stop overs priced from US$39 per
Middle East specialists The Innovative Travel Co. have Dubai and Oman
night.”
covered through their comprehensive Ancient Kingdom Holidays
He said EK’s consistent service from New Zealand, additional baggage allowance (an extra 10kg per class) and connections to 29
programme. The style of holiday offered is private touring, which enables clients
European destinations including newbies Dublin, Copenhagen,
to select their preferred standard of travel, number of days and itinerary
Geneva and St Petersburg made the airline an attractive proposition.
content with professional English speaking guides.
For clients exploring further, the Arabian Air Pass and a partnership October/November 2011 | www.traveltrade.co.nz
Best of both
with Fly Dubai offer connections to hundreds of gateways. Lethbridge said Dubai had matured into a cosmopolitan city and was looking the best it ever has. “Many of the major building projects are finished – it feels complete. There are remarkable vistas on the skyline, it is very clean and tidy and the metro makes it easy to get around.” Despite disruptions in other parts of the Middle East, he said Dubai
Innovative national sales and marketing manager Carol Wisker said recent events had translated into a slow year for the Middle East overall but countries such as Oman, Dubai and the Gulf States have enjoyed a consistent level of visitors. She said Oman offered a diverse range of activities and attractions that appealed to Kiwi travellers. “Clients can either base themselves in Muscat and arrange day trips to see a number of the key sights or the option of 4WD safaris, private
had remained stable and was actually experiencing a mini boom as
tours and self-drive itineraries are among the other broad range of choices
many Middle East businesses relocated there.
featured in the Ancient Kingdoms programme.”
“Tourism numbers are strong, the airport is up and running, arrivals and departures process is easy and most gates have double air bridges – we feel we have a good story to tell.”
16
An adventure to the desert dunes of Wahiba Sands via the wadis offers an opportunity to connect with some local Omani’s. “Tailor-made self drive itineraries can also be prepared around the clients exact requirements, providing bespoke travel options which cater
anz.dubaixperts.com
Photo Credits || The Innovative Travel Co
perfectly to more discerning and well travelled clients including FIT,
dubai
Nizwa, Oman Dubai
Popular stop
Taste of Dubai
World Journeys offer an eight day
Tempo Holidays’ three-day Taste of
Experience the Emirates package based
Dubai package is available from $328
in Dubai, with daily touring out to some
per person twin share. The package
of the ancient forts, dhow yards, oases
includes two nights in four-star Four
and dune deserts in the area. The
Points by Sheraton Bur Dubai Hotel
tour is priced from $4545 per person
with daily breakfast, and a City of
share twin including sightseeing
Merchants tour of Dubai’s highlights
with English speaking local guides
including Jumeirah Mosque, old wind-
(including entrance fees), nine nights
tower houses in Bastakiya, Al Fahidi
4-star accommodation with breakfast,
Fort and the Old Town’s gold and spice
transfers by air-conditioned car plus a
souks. Tempo is offering a free photo
dinner cruise on Dubai Creek.
book with every booking.
Dubai to London
Etihad wi-fi
World Journeys only have balcony
Etihad Airways (EY), the national airline
cabins remaining on their escorted
of the United Arab Emirates, will provide
cruise journey Dubai to London aboard
onboard wireless internet on selected
Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth.
routes to Europe before the end of the year.
Departing April 3, 2012 the 28-day
EY operates three flights a day between
includes calls at Muscat (Oman),
Abu Dhabi and Muscat, and can
Safaga (for Luxor), Sharm el Sheikh,
provide same days connections in both
Alexandria, Athens, Rome, Monte
directions between New Zealand and
Carlo and Lisbon. Cruise is priced
Muscat via Australia and Abu Dhabi.
from $15,755 per person share twin
Connections From New Zealand are
including flights ex AKL/CHC, transfers,
with code-share partners Air New
two nights hotels (Dubai/London).
Zealand and Pacific Blue.
worlds corporate and incentive groups.”
Meantime, Dubai is always a popular stop and an ideal combination with
other Middle East and European destinations including Oman, said Wisker. “For many years, Dubai has set an exciting pace of development for all manner of events, activities and properties to attract travellers.” A popular activity is the 4WD safari over the desert sand-dunes to
4WD Safari’s & desert camps Hotels, Resorts & Apartments Dubai Guaranteed early check-in All the Middle East & Mediterranean EARLYBIRD OFFERS AVAILABLE
entertainment and traditional activities is provided. Another good seller is the evening dinner dhow cruise on the Dubai Creek including a banquet of local cuisine. Wisker also recommended visitors do what the locals do and take an Abra (water taxi) across the creek and head for the souq (traditional market place) to visit the spice market, museum and wander in the historic area of Dubai. Innovative provides hotels and apartments of every category, including a number of 24-hour check-in properties and makes arrangements for independent travellers, conference and incentive groups. Earlybooking specials on Ancient Kingdom Holidays are available until November 4.
Toll Free 0508 100111 www.innovative-travel.com
www.innovative-travel.com
17
www.traveltrade.co.nz | October/November 2011
a Bedouin camp where a traditional banquet and an evening full of
Stopover packages & day trips
Oman
Something old, something new Ras Al Jinz
Oman has been heavily promoted to the trade over the last year as the perfect complement to a Dubai or Abu Dhabi itinerary but it offers much more than a short escape, discovers Rebecca Williams.
Grand Mosque
crossroads of the trading world, visited
Team effort
by Marco Polo, but was lost when the city
Oman Tourism local rep Darragh Walshe
collapsed on itself – or so the legends say.
said a lot of work had been done to raise
Guesses at its age are around 4300 years.
the destination’s profile amongst the trade
When it comes to shopping, Oman offers
and the tourism board hoped to build on
up the greatest trinket of them all, legendary
that knowledge with a new online training
Frankincense, which is regarded as more
programme, accessible via the Oman
valuable even than gold.
Tourism website.
Despite it’s ancient ingredients, Oman’s
“Over the last couple of years trade have
tourism offering is also made up of dramatic
become more familiar with the destination
natural attractions.
- We have done a lot of advertising in the
The landscape has major contrasts with
last year to get the branding out there. The
monsoon rains in the south bringing lots
next step is more familiarization with the
of greenery while the north coughs up vast
destination, geography and culture to help
under a progressive new sultan, Oman is
mountain ranges, wadis (valleys), fjords and
agents sell it.”
gaining momentum as the go-to place for
swimming holes.
Having only just opened itself to tourism
traditional Arabia.
Of course, the quintessential desert
Walshe said Oman was the perfect pairing with Dubai and Abu Dhabi at only an hour’s
experience is available with a popular spot
flight away, offering the contrast between old
developed to showcase ancient legends, relics
being Wahiba Sands where accommodation
and new Arabia, especially for clients who have
and dramatic varied landscapes rather than
options include luxury tented camps.
travelled via these gateways before and are
Tourism infrastructure has been carefully
appeal for the international market. Historical highlights include Khor Rori in
The nautical roots of the country are also alive and well with water sports and marine activities becoming a major part of tourism.
looking for an alternative experience. “Industry need to feel confident about putting it in front of the client and suggesting it.”
southern Oman, the site of the ancient city of
Particularly out of Muscat, clients see dolphins,
Samharam and summer residence of the Queen
whales and experience traditional dhows or
misconception that there is unrest due to a lack
of Sheba.
even take a sunset cruise.
of knowledge about it’s actual location. Walshe
In the port town of Sur, the legendary home
Diving and snorkeling are growth
Unfortunately, Oman often suffers from the
said this could not be further from the truth.
of Sinbad the sailor, visitors can experience
industries with a wide variety of underwater
traditional dhow ship building.
scenery including coral, wrecks and rock
and welcoming. Their moderate form of Islam
formations. Popular spots accessible from
religion is respectful of other nationalities
fort (a UNESCO world heritage site) and many
Muscat include Bandar Khayran, Fahal Island
and religions.
believe genies still live in the area. The town is
and Daymaniyat Island.
The town of Bahla is home to a 2000-year-old
also famed by its pottery. The recently discovered city of Ubar is another hot spot. The city was once the
For the active travellers, other activities
“The people are friendly, engaging, funny
“Omani’s take great pride in their country and are natural hosts. Crime is almost non-
include sand skiing, rock climbing, hiking and
existent which also creates an environment of
cave exploration.
feeling safe and welcomed.”
19
www.traveltrade.co.nz | October/November 2011
bulldoze them, leaving Oman with a strong
oman
Zighy Bay
Wholesaler perspective World Journeys have a range of packages that
Wahiba Sands Peninsula is a popular choice.
and cruise in the remote northern region of
Zighy Bay is located 120 kilometres, just a
Musandam with its mountains, lagoons, fjords
explore Oman’s highlights including something
90-minutes drive, from Dubai International
and pure coastal waters. Walk canyons, explore
for culture vultures, nature lovers and lovers
Airport. Guests can also arrive via fifteen-
oases and camp in desert dunes near Wahiba
of luxury.
minute speedboat trip or paraglide down.
Sands before arriving into the vibrant city of
Clients interested in an authentic overview
The resort is in a secluded bay and built out
can opt for the six-day In the Footsteps of
of local materials. It offers a place for clients to
Bedouins package (from $2,255 per person share
relax after a hectic holiday and can be treated
twin), which includes a Bedouin experience in
as a destination in itself with a combination
the Wahiba Sands and a visit to the craftsmen
of pampering, mountain trekking, diving and
who carve traditional dhows. It also includes
other water sports available.
visits to the ancient Persian town of Qalhat and a trek into the gorge of Wadi Shab. For anyone interested in nature, the five-day Wadis & Wahibah package (from $1995 per
Muscat,” said Emdin.
Big developments
If clients have a visa for Dubai, and are just going to Zighy Bay, they do not need a visa for Oman.
person share twin) explores beaches, mangrove
World Expeditions
Muscat Airport, artist impression
forests, sinkholes for swimming, lush oases,
With the decline of travellers visiting the
The ongoing development of Muscat
turtle nesting sites and the Wahiba Sands.
traditional destinations of the Middle East,
International Airport (MCT) is a sure sign of
World Expeditions general manager Tali Emdin
Oman’s booming economy.
The seven-day Oman Highlights package (from $2559 per person share twin) offers a complete overview that includes Muscat,
said Oman was a perfect alternative.
A new terminal is expected to handle 12
“For clients wishing to experience the rich
million passengers annually and will open in
Wadi bashing (4WD experience), tea with
culture and landscapes of the region, Oman’s
2014. The airport has been future-proofed to
a Bedouin family and ancient forts. It also
diverse geography includes rugged coastlines,
allow for additional expansion with predictions
features stops at Turtle Beach, a dhow
crystal clear waters, beaches, craggy mountains,
that up to 48 million passengers per annum will
building yard and the bustling Sinaw Souq
salt flats, oases and deserts.”
pass through the facility.
with its cattle market and array of handicrafts including intricate silverware. All packages include sightseeing with local English speaking guides (including entrance fees), all transfers and transport, first class hotels and camps and all meals. For anyone after a luxury experience, the Six Senses resort of Zighy Bay on the Musandam
Wahiba Sands
20
Photo Credits || World Journeys
World Expeditions offers a nine-day Oman
Oman Conference and Exhibition Centre
Adventure with three nights in hotels and
will also open in Muscat in 2014, allowing
five nights camping, leisurely exploring the
the country to compete for large scale MICE
geographical diversity and culture of the country.
business on a global scale.
“For those clients looking for a more active style of adventure our 12-day Oman
www.tourismoman.co.nz
Musandam, Mountains and Muscat itinerary is an all encompassing exploration. We trek
Nizwa Fort
Zighy Bay
hot properties Pullman indulgence From November 1 to March 31, 2012 Pullman is offering a valet car park, accommodation in a residential suite, champagne on arrival and an hour-long massage Pacific Resort Aitutaki
Te Manava Luxury Villas & Spa
Family fun in the Cooks For clients looking to escape the Christmas madness Pacific Resort Rarotonga, Pacific
range of mouth-watering treats.
A variety of water activities, an infinity
for two in the Eastern influenced sanctuary that is Spa at the Pullman from $550. Package includes a late checkout time of 2pm with a fully cooked breakfast delivered to the suite.
Facebook free for all
Resort Aitutaki and Te Manava Luxury
swimming pool and complimentary access
Holiday Inn is offering Facebook fans the chance to win free
Villas & Spa in the Cook Islands provide all
to bicycles is all included. The Tiare Spa is
nights’ across Australasia. At least one free room is up for grabs
of the ingredients for a family holiday.
also onsite.
each day between December 12 and January 22, 2012 including
Situated on Muri beach and lagoon,
Currently, Pacific Resort Aitutaki and
complimentary stays during the peak Christmas Eve and New
Pacific Resort Rarotonga guests have
Pacific Resort Rarotonga have a summer
Year’s Eve season. From November 7 to December 18, 119 rooms
access to a stretch of safe beach, lagoon
special in the market: Guests who stay five
a week will be given away.
and uninhabited islets off the Muri
nights or more will receive one free night
The promotion celebrates Holiday Inn’s worldwide makeover – a
coastline. The property offers the Beach
plus $50 food and beverage credit per
three-year, US$1 billion transformation in which more than 1,200
Hut Kids Club complimentary and
room per night. The special is available
properties were upgraded.
kids stay, play and eat breakfast free.
for sales to January 31, 2012 and travel to
Babysitting services are also available.
June 30.
The numerous dining options within the resort include Pacific Village Café, Sandals
Te Manava Luxury Villas & Spa offers a
Restaurant and Barefoot Bar & Café.
private escape.
Room categories cater well for the
The property has one, two or three
family market with premium family garden
bedroom luxury self-contained villas and
rooms and villas on offer.
villa suites each with their own private
Meantime, Pacific Resort Aitutaki dishes up a relaxed family holiday in
Bangkok’s new Muse
For families after some peace and quiet,
pool and courtyard/deck. Guests have access to all the services and facilities at Pacific Resort Rarotonga,
Hotel Muse Bangkok Langsuan, the newest member to the
a 15-minute stroll away along Muri beach
MGallery collection, has opened. The newly built hotel has 174
of the World collection, and recipients
with convenient charge back facilities
rooms and suites as well as distinctive food and beverage
of the prestigious World’s Leading
available.
offerings. The hotel is offering an introductory promotion, which
luxurious surrounds. A member of the Small Luxury Hotels
Island Boutique Resort for the past three consecutive years, the resort is situated on more than 19 acres of tropical land.
For mums in need of some pampering, Te Manava Spa provides some time out Currently, clients who stay five nights
includes daily breakfast until December 30.
Sofitel upgrade
or more will receive one free night plus a
Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa is undertaking refurbishment of guest
beachfront bungalow features two
bottle of wine on arrival and a snorkelling
rooms until December 18. The new look will involve a luxury
bedrooms, a separate lounge area and
cruise for two. Valid for sales to January
upgrade of all furniture, carpet floorings, paint, wallpaper and
caters for up to six people, providing a new
31, 2012 and travel to June 30.
glass shower screens. Sofitel will also introduce a new luxury
The new two bedroom ultimate
option for the luxury family traveller. is part of the experience and Rapae Bay
room category available from April 2012, positioned above the www.pacificresort.com
resort’s superior room type yet below its suites.
www.temanava.com
Mantra makeover
Restaurant and Black Rock Café serve up a
Mantra on the Park in Melbourne has unveiled a $4 million upgrade across all 144 apartments, which included new kitchens and appliances, LCD TVs, iPod docking stations, fresh carpet and Pacific Resort Rarotonga
new paint in public areas.
21
www.traveltrade.co.nz | October/November 2011
It goes without saying that good food
brochure review
Western Australia brochure Western Australia brochure AAT Kings
Cycling Holidays The Innovative Travel Co. The Innovative Travel Company’s lifestyle cycling
an African wildlife
AAT King’s Western
holidays brochure for 2012 is now available.
experience, a Tanzania
Australia brochure
The new brochure features popular options
tour is featured ex
features The
including cycle and sail Croatia,Turkey, Italy and
Nairobi. Also included
Kimberley’s Geikie
Vietnam. These options are based on boutique
in the new brochure
Gorge, Cable Beach
coastal cruise vessels with an easygoing grade of
a five-day tour of NZ
and the Pilbara
cycling and of wide appeal for cyclists and non-
Marlborough region and 10 days Jordan from
region.
cycling companions.
the Dead to the Red Sea. 0508 100 111
Other must-see sights include Gantheaume Point, Broome, Busselton Jetty, Chamberlain
Self guided options are also featured for Bavaria and France and for those keen on
info@innovative-travel.com
Gorge and El Questro Hidden Valley National Park.
New Africa Collection Adventure World
Exclusive to AAT Kings is the You are Invited meal experience where travellers can meet and interact with their hosts, enjoy their hospitality and sample specialities.
There are more than 20 new itineraries on offer in Adventure World’s
Early payment discounts are available.
2012 Africa brochure, including the 11-day Okavango Wildlife Safari
Clients can save 10 per cent if they book and
in Botswana priced from $3199 that combines time spent onboard a
pay in full 12 months before their tour departs.
houseboat in the Okavango Panhandle with a camping safari through
Clients who are members of the AAT Kings’
the Moremi Game Reserve and Chobe National Park.
Kings Club save an additional five per cent. www.aatkings.com/nz
combine fun and eductional activities with opportunities to interact
The Intrepid Explorer Family Safari and Junior Ranger Safari tours with locals and view wildlife. Adventure World has also released a new volunteer tour in South Africa. To celebrate the release, Adventure World is offering discounts on some of their most popular tours. www.adventureworld.co.nz
company brochure Western Australia 2012/13 • AAT Kings Western Australia Guided Tours 2012/13
Western Australia 2012/13
• Australia’s No1 Tour Operator
October/November 2011 | www.traveltrade.co.nz
• Over 85 years and still going strong
22
• Guaranteed Departures • Value for money • Early payment savings
0508 496 753
Australia & NZ brochure Intrepid Travel Intrepid Travel’s new 2012 Australia and New Zealand brochure has hit the market with an extensive range of short break adventures in Australia. New for 2012, the three-day Dreamtime Discovery replaces the 14-day Cape York Complete. The new three day itinerary ex-Cairns reflects Intrepid Travel’s commitment to local communities with a local, indigenous operator providing travellers with an authentic real life experience of indigenous Australia culture. Indigenous experiences include
aatkings.co.nz Prices in New Zealand Dollars
learning how to throw a spear and exploring the bush for tucker (food) and traditional medicines. Intrepid Travel’s Australia and New Zealand brochure features 30
0800 500 146 aatkings@aatkings.co.nz www.aatkings.com/nz
trips in Australia and six trips in New Zealand. www.intrepid.com
agency insider
Mates Rates Accor bargains
Agent low down Vivienne Blackmore
a special discount in Brisbane. Book
offering travel agents and professional conference organisers special industry rates to experience the resort from A$140 per night.
direct to secure Novotel from A$149
Rates are valid until December 12.
What made you enter the travel industry?
(H1749@accor.com or +61 7 3309
Bookings can be made by calling
I was living in Chicago and wanted to make
3309), Mercure from A$129 (H1750-
reservations on 02 4355 5777 or
a trip home to New Zealand. I went to many
RE02@accor.com or +61 7 3237 2300)
emailing reservations@kooindahwaters.
and Ibis from A$119 (H1750-RE03@
com.au.
really bad. Most didn’t know where New Zealand was. I was looking
accor.com or +61 7 3237 2333).
Featuring 84 rooms, the Mercure
for a change in career so on my return to Chicago I went to travel
Offer is for a standard room including
Kooindah Waters boasts extensive
school and became a Certified Travel Consultant (CTC). That was in
breakfast for two between December 15
leisure facilities including an indoor
1979. I have (most of the time) loved my job ever since.
and January 31, 2012 and subject to
lap pool, spa and sauna, outdoor pool,
availability.
day spa, children’s playground and
How many countries have you visited?
At Novotel Palm Cove Resort, a special
tennis courts. The resort also features
I haven’t been counting but I have cruised to most of the Caribbean
industry rate of A$110 is available for
four function rooms and two executive
islands and camped all over Europe, and visited many other places,
a standard room, room only per night
boardrooms, all with natural light and
so it would be well over 50.
available from November 1 to December
a ballroom that can cater for up to 300
20 and January 4 to February 29, 2012.
delegates.
What is your favourite airport and why?
Phone + 61 7 4059 1234 or visit: www.
The property is located five minutes from
Singapore. I love the free movies and internet connections and the
novotelpalmcove.com.au
Tuggerah Lake, offering scenic picnic
numerous options for sleeping, food, massages etc
Mercure Townsville also has an industry
spots and a range of water sports, with
rate of A$109 per night including
kayaks and bikes available for hire. It is
What is the strangest request you have received from a client?
breakfast is valid until March 31, 2012.
within easy access of the Central Coast’s
When I was living in Chicago clients wanted to rent a car and drive
Phone: + 61 77 4759 4900 or visit:www.
numerous pristine beaches, and just 40
to Hawaii. In those days most Americans geography was very poor.
mercure.com.au
minutes from the Hunter Valley wineries.
I had another client who wanted to go to Hawaii for the weekend,
Auckland escape
Outrigger booking bonus
ground in Honolulu. She couldn’t understand why it took so long to
All nine Accor hotels in
Outrigger specialist agents receive a $50
get there as in her words; “it is part of the USA.”
Auckland - Pullman, MGallery,
bonus for every booking of five nights or
Novotel, Mercure, Ibis, All Seasons
more at Outrigger properties in Oahu,
What is your idea of the perfect vacation?
and Formule 1 – are extending a warm
Maui, Kauai and the Island of Hawaii -
I love to lay in the sun somewhere quiet with no TV or phones but I also
welcome for the holiday season with
valid for travel to December 21.
like to experience some culture and be more active. Usually, the last
industry rates available across all
The Outrigger Hospitality Specialist
place I have been is perfect. I went to India a couple of years ago and it
brands.
Programme allows certified agents to
was probably the best holiday I have had to date. I wasn’t sure I would
Pullman and MGallery industry rates start
earn specialist reward points that are
like India. We got off the beaten track and it was hot, smelly, dirty, loud
from $149, Novotel from $119, Mercure
redeemable for cash or gift certificates.
and completely crazy and I had an amazing time. The food was fabulous
from $99, Ibis from $89, All Seasons and
Additional benefits include exclusive
- I ate nothing but vegetarian food washed down with loads of local beer
Formule1 from $59 per room per night for
deals, famil invitations and agent
and had no trouble with bugs. I would recommend that anyone going
entry level room types.
opportunities such as the “Travel Agent
only eats vegetarian as the power supply is often intermittent.
All room rates are subject to availability
Buy One, Get One Free Special” at
and valid for travel from December 15
the Outrigger Reef on the Beach and
Where is your next destination and what do you plan on doing there?
until January 31, 2012.
Outrigger Waikiki on the Beach, valid now
My next holiday will be with a friend from Chicago and we will drive
Reservations can be made via
through December 21, 2011.
the New England States to see the fall colours. I plan on taking heaps
Over December and January Accor are offering family and friends of Accor
Air New Zealand Holidays Napier
different travel agents and they were all
which was possible, but she would only allow four hours on the
www.OutriggerAgent.com
reservation department on providing
of photos, talk about old times, try not to eat and drink too much, then take time to visit all my friends in Chicago and catch some of
the booking code: Summer Sensation
Rotorua getaway
the wonderful blues and jazz music in the city plus, of course, revisit
in Auckland. Industry ID must provided
Sudima Lake Rotorua are offering an industry rate of $80 and 25 per cent off the total food bill. To make a booking contact reservations 07 348 1174 or reservations@sudimarotorua.co.nz and ask for the special industry rates. Upon check-in, proof must be presented.
the Art Institute in Chicago - an amazing place full of marvellous art
upon check-in. www.accorhotels.com
Cheap trip To introduce the newly rebranded Mercure Kooindah Waters Central Coast, Accor is
including many of my favourite impressionists.
What do you love about your job? It is never the same and I learn something every day. It is very satisfying to plan and execute the holiday of someone’s dreams then have them come in into the office with their photos and often a small gift for you.
23
www.traveltrade.co.nz | October/November 2011
accorhotels.com or direct with the hotel’s
the world
Paula McCracken, Campbell’s Travel ~ United States
24
Ian Schultz, Wintec ~ Beijing
October/November 2011 | www.traveltrade.co.nz
We asked our readers to send in office and/or travel pictures for the chance to win morning tea for their entire office. AB supporters Adventure World were our first winners.
Keep the entries coming, there is more than one chance to win. Email pictures to rebeccaw@mediaweb.co.nz or post them on our Facebook Page.
Book Jetstar low fares to Australia With Jetstar’s all day, everyday low fares from Auckland, Christchurch and Queenstown to Australia’s east coast, booking your next trip across the Tasman with Jetstar, couldn’t be easier. For more details and to book your low fare, visit jetstar.com
Brisbane Gold Coast Sydney
Auckland
Melbourne
(Tullamarine)
Christchurch Queenstown
To book visit jetstar.com Flights from Queenstown to Sydney commence 23 December 2011. See jetstar.com for more details. Jetstar Airways Pty Ltd ABN 33 069 720 243.
JNZ1028/TM
Discover Paradise... ...The Aranui Way
Excursions & Activities include: • Visiting local Marquesan villages and handicraft centres • Archaeological and cultural sites, tikis, churches, all with on site lecturers • Enjoying traditional dance shows, 4WD, hiking and sightseeing tours • Restaurants, picnics & BBQs on white sandy beaches • Visiting Paul Gauguin & Jacques Brel Museum (entrance fee not included) • Local multi-lingual tour guides (English, French and German) • Fantastic 14-day cruise, which includes 3 meals/day • A doctor is also available during all excursions + onboard travel
Optional activities not included: • Horseback riding • Trawling and Deep sea fishing • Scuba diving
Cruise in the comfort of the unique Tahitian passengerfreighter, Aranui 3
W
hen you step onboard the Aranui 3 you know you have embarked on a very different cruise holiday. This unique 2003 built passenger-freighter caters for 200 passengers and comes complete with a lounge, bars, conference room, swimming pool, fishing platform, boutique and accommodation which ranges from spacious Suites with a balcony to Deluxe and Standard ‘A’ cabins, each with ocean views. Experience a 14 day adventure discovering the most remote islands of the Marquesas archipelagos located 1,500 kms North-East of Tahiti. You will take part in delivering essential goods as well as cars and building materials to 16 local villages. In addition to this vital role, Aranui Cruises offers a soft adventure holiday with a real cultural discovery element, allowing passengers to absorb some of the world’s most remarkable scenery on ancient volcanic islands fringed with black sandy beaches.
For pricing and packages please contact your local travel agent.
Email: Laurent@aranuicruises.com.au Bookings: reservations@aranui.com | Phone: (+61) 3 9449 3778 www.aranuicruises.com.au