Turbulence | Issue 8 | 2015 by Sean Simmons Travel

ISSUE 08

TURBULENCE

FINALIS T 2013, 2014 & 2015

MASSIVE

AUSTRALIA

SALE Discover

CUBA

THE SEAN SIMMONS TEAM OF TRAVEL EXPERTS P P F A

+61 3 9429 3294 (local) 1300 391 590 (interstate) +61 3 9429 3293 Suite 6, 53 Coppin Street Richmond VIC 3121

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“ Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness, and many of our people need it sorely on these accounts. Broad, wholesome, charitable views of men and things cannot be acquired by vegetating in one little corner of the earth all one’s lifetime.” Mark Twain, The Innocents Abroad

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THIS ISSUE 5 FROM THE EDITOR 6 Australia

seansimmonstravel.com.au

CUBA

What you can do on our website

Will surprise and enchant you

On SALE

34 Family travel on a budget 36 SEANâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S TRAVEL Tips 38 Planet of the apps Milehi

39 #myseanstravel

Flight deck

travel information & industry news

42 Virgin Australia News 46 World events calendar

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“ It can hardly be a coincidence that no language on earth has ever produced the expression, ‘As pretty as an airport.” Douglas Adams, The Long Dark Tea-Time of the Soul

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Welcome to another exciting edition of Turbulence. We hope you have been keeping warm during this bitter winter and are managing to avoid the nasty bugs which have been going around! Our thoughts go out to the people of Myanmar who have recently experienced the worst flooding in decades. Estimates say around a million people have been critically affected and at least 103 lives have been lost in the terrible floods and landslides that have occurred across most of the country.

FROM THE EDITOR

Please, consider donating to official charities to help with the relief efforts. For those who have planned travel to Myanmar, advice is that the key tourist spots have not been affected and donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be put off if you are thinking about heading there. It is a truly beautiful destination filled with wonderful people. Now more than ever, they will be relying on the tourism dollar to help them rebuild. This month, our eyes turn closer to home, with a truly spectacular range of fantastic packages from all over the country. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a great time to explore this fantastic land of ours. Take the kids away during the upcoming September school holidays or, even better, pack the kids off to the grandparents and have a cheeky romantic getaway! Our destination spotlight also goes on Cuba this month. This colourful destination is definitely enjoying the extra attention following the relaxation of trade relations. Check out our feature on page 30 with a recommended tour from our friends at World Journeys. Turbulence is one of our pride and joys, and we hope you enjoying reading it as much as we enjoy putting it together. If there is anything you would like us to cover, or you have any feedback, please send us an email. Surprise us enough and we might just surprise you! Happy reading!

TURBULENCE | ISSUE 088 |2015 | 5

ON SALE! This month, we bring you some amazing packages from around the country. Whether you are looking for a extended weekend getaway or a longer vacation, Australia is well and truly on sale

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Tropical North Queensland Only in Tropical North Queensland can you immerse yourself in the absolute splendour of natural beauty, where the rainforest meets the reef.

PACIFIC HOTEL, CAIRNS

SHANGRI-LA HOTEL THE MARINA CAIRNS

3 NIGHTS FROM $225* PER PERSON TWIN SHARE

• 3 NIGHTS in a Superior Room • Includes 1 FREE night • Guaranteed upgrade to an Executive Room • BONUS Hot Deals discount voucher book Valid for travel 31 Jul - 8 Aug, 20 - 24 Aug, 28 Aug - 8 Sep, 10 - 19 Sep, 4 - 10 Oct, 12 - 15 Oct, 24 - 29 Oct, 1 - 10 Nov, 16 - 18 Nov, 22 - 25 Nov, 30 Nov - 30 Dec 15.

2 NIGHTS FROM $309* PER PERSON TWIN SHARE

• 2 NIGHTS in a Superior Garden View Room • Full breakfast daily Valid for travel 1 Nov - 31 Dec 15. Add an extra $44pp for travel 31 Jul - 31 Oct 15.

CAIRNS ESCAPE

QT PORT DOUGLAS

6 NIGHTS FROM $515*

7 NIGHTS FROM $599*

PER PERSON TWIN SHARE

• 6 NIGHTS at Cairns Colonial Club in a Standard Room • Includes 1 FREE night • Full Day Outer Great Barrier Reef Cruise with Reef Magic Cruises • Return Cairns Airport transfers

MORE hotels available

PER PERSON TWIN SHARE

• 7 NIGHTS in a Resort Room • Includes 2 FREE nights • $150 food & beverage credit • Late check-out of 12pm Valid for travel 5 Oct - 25 Dec 15. Add an extra $182pp for travel 31 Jul - 19 Sep 15.

Valid for travel 31 Jul - 31 Dec 15. *Additional terms: Packages provided by Sunlover Holidays are are subject to their terms and conditions. Prices correct as at 07 AUG 2015 and subject to change without notice. Subject to availability. Credit card and booking fees may apply.

For all ENQUIRIES email enquiries@seanstravel.com.au TURBULENCE | ISSUE 088 |2015 | 7

Gold Coast

Where else but the Gold Coast will you find spectacular beaches, lush hinterland, sensational shopping, fabulous food plus non-stop action and adventure.

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MORE hotels available GOLD COAST STAY

GOLD COAST FAMILY GETAWAY

4 NIGHTS FROM $239*

7 NIGHTS FROM $479*

PER PERSON TWIN SHARE

PER PERSON QUAD SHARE

• 4 NIGHTS at Islander Resort Hotel in a Hotel Room • Includes 1 FREE night • FREE 3 day in-room Wi-Fi Pass • Buy 1 dinner get 1 FREE • Admission to SkyPoint Observation Deck • Return Gold Coast Airport transfers

• 4 NIGHTS at Hilton Surfers Paradise in a Guest Room • Includes 1 FREE night • Guaranteed upgrade to a Deluxe Room • Buy 1 breakfast get 1 FREE • FREE in-room Wi-Fi • Return Private Gold Coast Airport transfers

Valid for travel 31 Jul - 24 Sep, 28 Sep - 1 Oct, 5 - 22 Oct, 26 Oct - 20 Nov, 7 - 24 Dec 15.

Valid for travel 31 Jul - 24 Aug, 27 Aug - 6 Sep, 10 - 18 Sep 15. Add an extra $60pp for travel 19 Sep -1 Oct, 5 - 7 Oct, 11 - 21 Oct, 25 Oct - 7 Nov, 13 Nov - 18 Dec 15.

THE TOWERS OF CHEVRON RENAISSANCE, SURFERS PARADISE

ISLANDER RESORT HOTEL, SURFERS PARADISE

3 NIGHTS FROM $119*

4 NIGHTS FROM $179*

PER PERSON QUAD SHARE

• 3 NIGHTS in a 2 Bedroom, 1 Bathroom Apartment • FREE Passport 2 Fun voucher booklet Valid for sale 31 Jul - 11 Aug, 17 Aug - 11 Sep 15. Valid for travel 31 Jul - 18 Sep, 6 - 22 Oct, 26 Oct - 20 Nov, 6 - 24 Dec 15.

PER PERSON TWIN SHARE

• 4 NIGHTS in a Hotel Room • Includes 1 FREE night • FREE 3 day in-room Wi-Fi Pass • FREE drink on arrival • Buy 1 dinner get 1 FREE Valid for travel 31 Jul - 24 Sep, 28 Sep - 1 Oct, 5 - 22 Oct, 26 Oct - 20 Nov, 7 - 24 Dec 15.

*Additional terms: Packages provided by Sunlover Holidays are are subject to their terms and conditions. Prices correct as at 07 AUG 2015 and subject to change without notice. Subject to availability. Credit card and booking fees may apply.

For all ENQUIRIES email enquiries@seanstravel.com.au TURBULENCE | ISSUE 088 |2015 | 9

Islands & Whitsundays Nothing beats a beachside holiday or an island getaway. Queensland offers the most breathtaking coastline and dazzling array of island resorts under the sun.

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MORE hotels available DAYDREAM ISLAND RESORT & SPA DAYDREAM FAMILY HOLIDAY

HAMILTON ISLAND REEF VIEW HOTEL 4 NIGHTS FROM $779* PER PERSON TWIN SHARE

5 NIGHTS FROM $479*

PER PERSON QUAD SHARE (2 ADULTS & 2 CHILDREN)

• 5 NIGHTS at Daydream Island Resort & Spa in a Garden Balcony Room • Includes 1 FREE night • Upgrade to a Coral Ocean Balcony Room • $50 food and beverage voucher • Half Day Islands & Whitehaven Beach with Cruise Whitsundays (2 Adults & 2 Children) • Return Hamilton Island or Whitsunday Coast Launch transfers Valid for travel 31 Jul - 13 Sep, 18 Sep - 14 Oct, 18 Oct 17 Dec 15.

• 4 NIGHTS in a Garden View Room • Upgrade to a Coral Sea View Room • Kids Stay, Eat and Play FREE^ • Full breakfast daily • FREE in-room Wi-Fi • Return Hamilton Island transfers • Use of catamarans, paddle skis, windsurfers, snorkelling equipment, gym, spa, sauna & tennis court Valid for travel 6 Nov - 22 Dec 15. ^Kids 3-12 stay FREE when sharing with 2 paying adults and using existing bedding and eat FREE when dining with paying adults at selected restaurants.

ONE&ONLY HAYMAN ISLAND

PEPPERS AIRLIE BEACH

3 NIGHTS FROM $1,439*

3 NIGHTS FROM $345*

PER PERSON TWIN SHARE

• 3 NIGHTS in a Hayman Premium Ocean View Room with full breakfast daily • FREE $100 Spa Credit • FREE in-room Wi-Fi • Guaranteed late check-out of 2pm

PER PERSON TWIN SHARE

• 3 NIGHTS in a 1 Bedroom Spa Apartment • Full breakfast daily Valid for travel 31 Jul - 24 Sep, 28 Sep - 1 Oct, 5 - 22 Oct, 26 Oct - 20 Nov, 7 - 24 Dec 15.

Valid for travel 31 Jul - 18 Sep, 6 Oct - 18 Dec 15.

For all ENQUIRIES email enquiries@seanstravel.com.au TURBULENCE | ISSUE 088 |2015 | 11

Sunshine Coast & Brisbane

The perfect short break destination, with endless shopping, dining and nightlife options, cultural experiences and outdoor activities.

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MORE hotels available ADINA APARTMENT HOTEL BRISBANE

NOOSA EXPLORER

2 NIGHTS FROM $179*

5 NIGHTS FROM $439*

PER PERSON TWIN SHARE

• 2 NIGHTS in a Studio Room • Full breakfast daily Valid for travel Fri - Sun night 31 Jul - 24 Sep, 27 Sep - 14 Dec 15, all days 15 - 29 Dec 15. Add an extra $44pp for travel Mon - Thu night 31 Jul - 24 Sep, 27 Sep - 14 Dec 15.

PER PERSON QUAD SHARE

• 5 NIGHTS at Mantra French Quarter in a 2 Bedroom Deluxe Apartment • Australia Zoo Entry (2 Adults & 2 Children) • 6 DAYS AVIS car hire (Group C - Hyundai i30 or similar) Valid for travel 31 Jul - 27 Aug 15. Add an extra $10pp for travel 6 - 18 Sep, 6 - 29 Oct 15, 2 Nov - 18 Dec 15.

OAKS OASIS, CALOUNDRA

MANTRA FRENCH QUARTER, Noosa

3 NIGHTS FROM $199*

5 NIGHTS FROM $299*

PER PERSON TWIN SHARE

• 3 NIGHTS in a Executive Family Room • Includes 1 FREE night • Kids Stay, Play & Eat FREE^ • Guaranteed late check-out of 12pm • FREE in-room Wi-Fi

PER PERSON QUAD SHARE

• 5 NIGHTS in a 2 Bedroom Deluxe Apartment Valid for travel 31 Jul - 27 Aug, 30 Aug - 3 Sep, 6 - 18 Sep, 6 - 29 Oct, 2 Nov - 18 Dec 15.

Valid for travel 31 Jul - 1 Oct, 5 Oct - 31 Dec 15. ^Kids 3-12 stay FREE when sharing with 2 paying adults and using existing bedding and eat FREE when dining with paying adults at selected restaurants.

For all ENQUIRIES email enquiries@seanstravel.com.au TURBULENCE | ISSUE 088 |2015 | 13

Tasmania

Discover a unique island of ancient wilderness, history and heritage, Tasmania fresh produce and colourful changing seasons.

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MORE hotels available FREYCINET LODGE

VILLA HOWDEN, HOBART

2 NIGHTS FROM $279*

3 NIGHTS FROM $355*

PER PERSON TWIN SHARE

• 2 NIGHTS in a One Room Cabin • $100 food & beverage credit per stay Valid for travel 31 Jul - 30 Sep 15. Add an extra $120pp for travel 1 Oct - 24 Dec 15.

PER PERSON TWIN SHARE

• 3 NIGHTS in a Villa Suite • Includes 1 FREE night • Continental breakfast daily • FREE glass of sparkling wine on arrival • FREE in-room Wi-Fi & car parking

Valid for travel 31 Jul - 30 Sep 15. Add an extra $80pp for travel 1 - 30 Oct, 3 - 13 Nov, 15 - 22 Nov, 26 Nov - 11 Dec, 13 - 16 Dec 15.

6 DAY WILD TASMANIA

10 DAY GRAND CIRCLE

5 NIGHTS FROM $569*

9 NIGHTS FROM $1,329*

• 1 NIGHT at Leisure Inn Penny Royal (Launceston) in a Hotel Room • 2 NIGHTS at Cradle Mountain Hotel in a Standard Room • 1 NIGHT at Strahan Village in an Executive Room • 1 NIGHT at Travelodge Hobart in a Guest Room • 6 DAYS AVIS car hire (Group B - Hyundai Getz or similar with Co-pilot navigation kit)

• 1 NIGHT at Travelodge Hobart • 1 NIGHT at Strahan Village • 2 NIGHTS at Cradle Mountain Hotel • 1 NIGHT at Leisure Inn Penny Royal (Launceston) • 1 NIGHT at Tidal Waters Resort (St Helens) • 2 NIGHTS at Freycinet Lodge • 1 NIGHT at Travelodge Hobart • 10 DAYS AVIS car hire (Group B - Hyundai Getz or similar) with Co-pilot navigation kit

PER PERSON TWIN SHARE

Valid for travel 31 Jul - 27 Sep 15. Add an extra $196pp for travel 28 Sep - 22 Dec 15.

PER PERSON TWIN SHARE

Valid for travel 31 Jul - 23 Sep 15. Add an extra $210pp for travel 24 Sep - 18 Dec 15.

For all ENQUIRIES email enquiries@seanstravel.com.au TURBULENCE | ISSUE 088 |2015 | 15

Sydney

Experience sparkling beaches, great restaurants & trendy café’s – see it all in Sydney.

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MORE hotels available FOUR POINTS BY SHERATON SYDNEY, DARLING HARBOUR

PARKROYAL DARLING HARBOUR 3 NIGHTS FROM $389* PER PERSON TWIN SHARE

2 NIGHTS FROM $269* PER PERSON TWIN SHARE

• 2 NIGHTS in a Premium City Side Room

• 3 NIGHTS in a Superior Room • Full breakfast daily

Valid for travel 31 Jul - 30 Sep, 14 - 28 Dec 15. Add an extra $67pp for travel 1 Oct - 13 Dec 15.

Valid for travel 31 Jul - 7 Oct 15. Add an extra $100pp for travel 9 Oct - 14 Dec 15

RENDEZVOUS HOTEL SYDNEY CENTRAL

OAKS GOLDSBROUGH, SYDNEY

2 NIGHTS FROM $205*

2 NIGHTS FROM $185*

PER PERSON TWIN SHARE

• 2 NIGHTS in a Guest Room Valid for travel 31 Jul - 30 Sep 15. Add an extra $20pp for travel 6 Oct - 14 Dec 15.

PER PERSON TWIN SHARE

• 2 NIGHTS in a Studio Apartment • FREE in-room Wi-Fi • Guaranteed late check-out of 12pm Valid for travel 4 - 6 Aug, 18 Aug - 1 Oct, 6 Oct - 3 Nov, 5 Nov - 27 Dec 15.

For all ENQUIRIES email enquiries@seanstravel.com.au TURBULENCE | ISSUE 088 |2015 | 17

New South Wales

Long white sandy coastlines, World Heritage Listed national parks and world famous wine regions â&#x20AC;&#x201C; explore New South Wales.

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MORE hotels available THE BYRON AT BYRON RESORT & SPA, BYRON BAY

HUNTER VALLEY RESORT 2 NIGHTS FROM $199* PER PERSON TWIN SHARE

1 NIGHT FROM $165* PER PERSON TWIN SHARE

• 1 NIGHT in a Standard Suite • Full breakfast daily • 1 Day bike hire • FREE bottle of sparkling wine on arrival

Valid for travel 31 Jul - 19 Sep 15. Add an extra $33pp for travel 20 Sep - 19 Dec 15.

LEISURE INN SPIRES, BLUE MOUNTAINS

• 2 NIGHTS in a Hunter Room • Tour of the on-site vineyard, followed by a wine tasting with the resort’s Cellarmaster • Half hour Hunter Wine Theatre experience Valid for travel Sun – Thu night 31 Jul - 18 Sep, 6 Oct - 18 Dec 15.

ABSOLUTE BEACHFRONT OPAL COVE RESORT, COFFS HARBOUR

3 NIGHTS FROM $219* PER PERSON QUAD SHARE

• 3 NIGHTS in a 2 Bedroom Apartment Valid for travel 31 Jul - 30 Aug, 6 - 31 Oct, 1 Nov - 22 Dec 15.

5 NIGHTS FROM $559* PER PERSON TWIN SHARE

• 5 NIGHTS in a Resort Room • Full breakfast daily Valid for travel 31 Jul - 20 Dec 15.

For all ENQUIRIES email enquiries@seanstravel.com.au TURBULENCE | ISSUE 088 |2015 | 19

Melbourne & Victoria

Every piece of Victoria has its own diverse attractions and range of unique experiences.

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MORE hotels available BALGOWNIE ESTATE VINEYARD RESORT & SPA, YARRA VALLEY

CROWN PROMENADE MELBOURNE 3 NIGHTS FROM $269* PER PERSON TWIN SHARE

2 NIGHTS FROM $239* PER PERSON TWIN SHARE

• 2 NIGHTS in a Garden Terrace Room Valid for travel 31 Jul - 30 Sep 15. Add $130pp for travel 1 Oct - 31 Dec 15.

• 3 NIGHTS in a Standard King Room • Includes 1 FREE night • Guaranteed upgrade to a Corner King Room Valid for travel Sun - Fri night 31 Jul - 17 Sep, 7 - 30 Dec 15. Add an extra $20pp for stays over a Sat night.

CROWN METROPOL MELBOURNE

MERCURE MELBOURNE TREASURY GARDENS

3 NIGHTS FROM $319*

3 NIGHTS FROM $185*

PER PERSON TWIN SHARE

• 3 NIGHTS in a Luxe King Room • Includes 1 FREE night • Guaranteed upgrade to a City Luxe Room Valid for travel Sun - Fri night 31 Jul -17 Sep, 7 - 30 Dec 15. Add an extra $30pp for stays over a Sat night.

PER PERSON TWIN SHARE

• 3 NIGHTS in a City View Queen Room • Includes 1 FREE night Valid for travel 2- 14 Aug, 16 - 18 Aug, 23 Aug - 1 Oct, 13 - 30 Dec 15. Add an extra $7pp for travel 5 - 29 Oct, 4 Nov - 4 Dec, 6 - 10 Dec 15.

For all ENQUIRIES email enquiries@seanstravel.com.au TURBULENCE | ISSUE 088 |2015 | 21

South Australia

A brilliant blend of food and wine, breathtaking landscapes and abundant wildlife awaits your discovery in South Australia.

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MORE hotels available ADELAIDE MERIDIEN HOTEL AND APARTMENTS

NOVOTEL BAROSSA VALLEY RESORT 3 NIGHTS FROM $285* PER PERSON TWIN SHARE

1 NIGHT FROM $55* PER PERSON TWIN SHARE

• 1 NIGHT in a Standard Room • FREE bottle of wine on arrival • Guaranteed late check-out of 12pm • Buy 1 breakfast get 1 FREE • Buy 1 dinner get 1 FREE

• 3 NIGHTS in a Studio Room • Full breakfast daily Valid for travel Sun - Fri night 31 Jul - 30 Sep 15.

Valid for travel 31 Jul - 26 Nov, 3 - 31 Dec 15.

5 DAY VINEYARD EXPLORER 4 NIGHTS FROM $655*

4 DAY ADELAIDE & KANGAROO ISLAND ESCAPE

PER PERSON TWIN SHARE

• 2 NIGHTS at Novotel Barossa Valley Resort in a Standard Studio Room • 2 NIGHTS at McLaren Vale Motel in a Executive Deluxe Room • 5 DAYS AVIS car hire (Group B - Hyundai Getz or similar) with Co-pilot navigation kit Valid for travel 31 Jul - 21 Dec 15.

3 NIGHTS FROM $699* PER PERSON TWIN SHARE

• 3 NIGHTS at Mercure Kangaroo Island Lodge in a Standard Room • 4 DAYS AVIS car hire (Group C - Toyota Corolla or similar) with Co-pilot nav kit Valid for travel 31 Jul - 31 Dec 15.

For all ENQUIRIES email enquiries@seanstravel.com.au TURBULENCE | ISSUE 088 |2015 | 23

Western Australia

Discover one of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most amazing wilderness areas. An ancient landscape of rugged ranges and stunning gorges, pristine beaches and untouched reefs.

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MORE hotels available PAN PACIFIC PERTH HOTEL

PERTH ESCAPE

2 NIGHTS FROM $249*

4 NIGHTS FROM $635*

PER PERSON TWIN SHARE

• 2 NIGHTS in a Deluxe Room • Full breakfast daily Valid for travel Thu - Mon night 31 Jul - 31 Aug, 6 Sep - 31 Dec 15. Add an extra $59pp for travel Tue & Wed nights.

PER PERSON TWIN SHARE

• 4 NIGHTS at All Suites Perth • Includes 1 FREE night • Buy 1 dinner get 1 FREE • Half Day Perth & Fremantle City Explorer with ADAMS Pinnacle Tours • Full Day Pinnacles, Koalas & Sand Boarding 4WD including Lobster Lunch with ADAMS Pinnacle Tours • Return Perth Airport transfers

Valid for travel 13 - 24 Dec 15. Add an extra $20pp for travel 1 - 31 Aug 15. Add an extra $30pp for travel 1 - 27 Sep, 29 Sep - 12 Dec 15.

MARGARET RIVER SHORT BREAK

5 DAY DOLPHIN COAST

3 NIGHTS FROM $349*

4 NIGHTS FROM $719*

• 2 NIGHTS at Quality Inn Margaret River in a Standard Room • 3 DAYS AVIS car hire (Group B - Hyundai Getz or similar) with Co-pilot navigation kit

• 1 NIGHT at Ibis Styles Geraldton • 2 NIGHTS at Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort • 1 NIGHT at Kalbarri Beach Resort • 5 DAYS AVIS car hire (Group B - Hyundai Getz or similar) with Co-pilot navigation kit

PER PERSON TWIN SHARE

Valid for travel 31 Jul - 31 Dec 15.

PER PERSON TWIN SHARE

Valid for travel 31 Jul - 21 Sep, 10 Oct - 21 Dec 15. Add an extra $50pp for travel 22 Sep - 9 Oct 15.

For all ENQUIRIES email enquiries@seanstravel.com.au TURBULENCE | ISSUE 088 |2015 | 25

Northern Territory

Come and discover the real Outback of Australia – the Northern Territory. It’s the experience of a lifetime.

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MORE hotels available VOYAGES DESERT GARDENS, AYERS ROCK

DOUBLETREE BY HILTON DARWIN

3 NIGHTS FROM $369*

4 NIGHTS FROM $279*

PER PERSON TWIN SHARE

• 3 NIGHTS in a Standard Room • Full breakfast daily • FREE Indigenous Guest Activites Program • Return Ayers Rock Airport transfers

• 4 NIGHTS in a Guest Room • Includes 1 FREE night • FREE drink on arrival • FREE in-room Wi-Fi

Valid for travel 1 Dec 15 – 31 Mar 16. Add an extra $98pp for travel 1 Jul - 30 Nov 15.

Valid for travel 10 - 31 Dec 15. Add an extra $52pp for travel 9 Oct - 9 Dec 15. Add an extra $200pp for travel 11 22 Aug, 27 Aug - 8 Oct 15.

4 DAY RED CENTRE DISCOVERY

6 DAY TOP END DISCOVERY

3 NIGHTS FROM $785*

5 NIGHTS FROM $1,155*

PER PERSON TWIN SHARE

• 1 NIGHT at Aurora Alice Springs in a Standard Room • 1 NIGHT at Kings Canyon Resort in a Standard Room • 1 NIGHT at Voyages Outback Pioneer (Ayers Rock) in a Standard Room • 4 DAYS AVIS car hire (Group W Mitsubishi Pajero or similar) with Co-pilot navigation kit

• 2 NIGHTS at Mercure Crocodile Hotel Kakadu in a Standard Room • 2 NIGHTS at Ibis Styles Katherine in a Standard Room • 1 NIGHT at Lake Bennett Wilderness Resort in a Resort Suite • 6 DAYS AVIS car hire (Group W Mitsubishi Pajero or similar) with Co-pilot navigation kit

Valid for travel 1 - 31 Dec 15. Add an extra $64pp for travel 31 Jul - 30 Oct 15. Add an extra $20pp for travel 31 Oct 30 Nov 15.

For all ENQUIRIES email enquiries@seanstravel.com.au TURBULENCE | ISSUE 088 |2015 | 27

Need hire? Book car anyAVIS Car for4 or more days

Book any Car for 4 or days & receive a FREE DOUBLE UPGRADE & AVIS receive amore FREE DOUBLE UPGRADE Group A – C

Group B – D

B &

Group C – E

Toyota Yaris or similar Hyundai i20 or similar Hyundai i30 or similar to Hyundai i30 to Holden Cruze to Toyota Camry

4-6 DAYS FROM $60

$61

$67

$68

$73

$79

$68

$73

$79

Valid for travel 31 Jul - 17 Sep 15 North Queensland Valid for travel 5 Oct - 15 Dec 15

$77

$83

$91

$68

$73

$79

Valid for travel 31 Jul - 13 Sep 15

$57

$58

$63

Valid for travel 14 Sep - 17 Sep 15

$66

$68

$73

Valid for travel 5 Oct - 15 Dec 15

$66

$68

$73

Valid for travel 31 Jul - 17 Sep 15

$121

$123

$130

Valid for travel 5 Oct - 15 Dec 15

$102

$104

$108

Valid for travel 31 Jul - 31 Aug 15

$60

$61

$67

Valid for travel 1 Sep - 17 Sep 15

$68

$73

$79

Valid for travel 5 Oct - 15 Dec 15

$68

$73

$79

Valid for travel 1 - 31 Aug 15

Southern Valid for travel 1 Sep - 17 Sep 15 Queensland Valid for travel 5 Oct - 15 Dec 15

Tasmania Northern Territory Rest of Australia

† Avis Car hire valid for travel as per the dates mentioned above. Prices are per vehicle per day & minimum 4 day hire applies. Prices are based on Airport pick up & drop off. Vehicle types are given for descriptive purposes only and may vary by location. Specific vehicle makes/models cannot be guaranteed. Rest of Australia area includes NSW, VIC, SA and Southern WA. Ask your Travel Agent for full Avis terms & conditions.

Hot airfares

Contact a sean simmons travel agent to get the best Virgin Australia deals to your destination. BRISBANE GOLD COAST HOBART DARWIN ULURU BROOME

FROM $378** FROM $290** FROM $250** FROM $565** FROM $705** FROM $1018**

CAIRNS HAMILTON ISLAND SYDNEY ALICE SPRINGS PERTH ADELAIDE

FROM $456** FROM $398** FROM $298** FROM $556** FROM $518** FROM $258**

**Flight information: Ex Melbourne flying Virgin Australia. Prices correct as at 7AUG and subject to change. Standard year round, non-promotional fares and subject to availability. Credit card and booking fees may apply.

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Southern Queensla

North Queensla

Tasmania

Northern Territory Rest of Australia

† Avis Car hire hire applies. P and may vary NSW, VIC, SA

www.seansimmonstravel.com.au

USEFUL THINGS YOU CAN DO ON OUR WEBSITE Apply for a visa.

Sean Simmons Travel offers a complete visa service in partnership with VisasDirect. Get information about visa requirements and make an application from the convenience of our dedicated portal. Click here to start an application.

Get an instant quote on travel insurance

It’s the most important things you can pack, as it is your ultimate protection while you are away. So, it should be chosen with care. Covermore, our preferred insurer, offers policies to suit a variety of needs and you can get an instant quote via our website. Click here to see if Covermore are right for you.

Find inspiration.

Every country and city offers something unique to the traveller. If you’re not sure where you want go or the best time to travel, our online destination guide will help you navigate climates, attractions and other useful information about countries and cities around the world. Click here to be inspired.

Do your homework.

Planning your travel takes a lot of preparation often involving hours of research. Lucky for you, we’ve done most of leg work, collecting every handy travel resource and organising them in one convenient location. Our Resources section includes important Information about passports, vaccinations, duty free and much, much more. Click here to start planning.

Book your travel.

You’ve been inspired and you’ve done your homework. Now, you are ready to search for and book flights, accommodation and care hire. Our online booking tool is a custom built, easy to use system designed to bring you fantastic Sean Simmons Travel rates and discounts available to all our clients. Click here to begin exploring. These tools and more have allowed us to bring you the innovation, value and service we pride ourselves on. Plus, we have ensured that our website is responsive to most mobile devices meaning you will only ever be a click away from finding out what you need to know to help you on your travels.

WWW.SEANSIMMONSTRAVEL.COM.AU MAKE IT YOUR FIRST DESTINATION

TURBULENCE | ISSUE 088 |2015 | 29

DESTINATION 30 | TURBULENCE | ISSUE 08 | 2015

Cuba will surprise and enchant even the most seasoned traveller - a veritable timewarp from the 1950â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s with faded colonial architecture, iconic American cars, and salsa music drifting out of corner bars. Sample a Mojito here and there, perhaps a Cuban cigar, and explore charming World Heritage listed towns. It is said that Cuba can be a difficult destination to understand, an

island of riddles that confound and confuse. The more you try and understand Cuba, the more difficult it actually becomes. These riddles are a result of its rich and troubled history. A history that has seen genocide, slavery, invasion, counter-invasion, and popular revolution. With its unique location positioning itself between the US and Latin America, Cuba is always struggling to work out just where it fits in.

For the best part of half a century Cuba has been a global discussion point for its politics dominated by images of Fidel Castro and Che Guevara. But as visitors soon find out, Cuba is much more than politics, rum, cigars and antiquated cars! More recently Cuba has begun to open its doors to the outside world, and the Cuban people are embracing the change, meaning there has never been a better time to travel

to Cuba. Experience this fascinating, awe-inspiring and perplexing island â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a uniqueness you will struggle to find elsewhere in our now globalised world. Sean Simmons Travel offer a wide range of travel options, from small group travel to individually tailor-made arrangements. Get there now before it all changes!

For all ENQUIRIES email enquiries@seanstravel.com.au TURBULENCE | ISSUE 088 |2015 | 31

THE BEST OF CUBA 8 DAYS FROM $2140 PP TWIN SHARE

Emerging from decades of restrictions and the influence of Fidel Castro, Cuba is now welcoming the tourist. Wonderful old Havana with its rich Spanish heritage, is a treasure house of baroque and neo-classical architecture with streets where the iconic classic American cars from the 50’s can still be found. But there is more to Cuba, such as the ‘living museum’ that is the delightful city of Trinidad and the beautiful Vinales Valley.

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Includes • Independent tour with local English speaking guides • Personal meet & greet on arrival in Havana • 7 nights accommodation in 4 and 5 star hotels & Casa Particulars (Guesthouses) • Transfers & transportation • Sightseeing & entrance fees • 7 Breakfasts, 7 Lunches, 6 Dinners

Day 1 | Arrive Havana

Day 2 | Havana

Private transfer on arrival to your hotel situated in the heart of Old Havana. Enjoy the evening at leisure and perhaps have a drink at the famous La Floridita Bar, made famous as the home of the daiquiri and Ernest Hemingway’s favourite watering hole in Havana. Accommodation is included at the comfortable Seville Hotel or you may choose to upgrade to the 5 star Parque Central Hotel.

Enjoy a city tour of old Havana. Visits include a cigar factory and also the Havana Club Rum factory where you will try a tot of their famous rum. Then commence a fascinating walking tour through the delights of the old city centre before your included lunch. After lunch take a ride back in time in an old pre-revolution (1959) American car before being dropped back to your hotel.

Day 3 | Havana > Santa Clara > Trinidad Drive from Havana East through sugar plantations to Trinidad. En-route you will visit the resting place of Che Guevara and tour the interesting museum there. Lunch is included in Santa Clara then continue by road arriving late afternoon in Trinidad where you will spend two nights in the delightful Iberostar Hotel situated in the historic town centre.

Day 4 | Trinidad This morning enjoy a city tour of the Unesco listed city of Trinidad. After an included lunch the afternoon is free to explore at your own pace.

Day 5 | Trinidad > Cienfuegos After breakfast, we will continue our tour to Cienfuegos, a city known as ‘Perla Del Sur’ (‘Pearl of the South’) due to its large boulevards, fascinating buildings and spectacular views over the bay. We will

visit the city admiring the Neo-classical structures, some dating from 1815, and the Tomas Terry Theatre, a sumptuously colonial theatre. Lunch will be at Nautical Club restaurant, a beautiful restaurant with amazing views of the bay. The rest of the day will be free to walk around the city or enjoy the swimming pool at the hotel. We will have dinner in Palacio Del Valle, a stunning Moorish-style palace.

Day 6 | Cienfuegos > Vinales Today we will be departing for Pinar Del Rio province, an area known throughout the world as Cuba’s main tobacco growing region, where steep sided “Mogote” mountains stand guard over fertile valleys. En route we will stop at Guama where we will take a boat through the mangrove swamps to a replica stilted Taino Indian village on the shores of Treasure Lake. Lunch will be taken in a local countryside restaurant. The tour will continue to Vinales, where we will overnight in Casa Particular’s (Spanish for ‘private house’). These are normally run by Cuban families and this will be a great chance to experience Cuba at its best and to interact with the locals. Each Casa Particular is different in style and size, the group will be split across different Casa Particulars. Dinner is arranged in a local restaurant.

Day 7 | Vinales Valley Today we will visit for the famous Vinales Valley, with stops for absorbing the beauty of the area. We will experience how Cuba’s famous cigars are still handmade by local experts by visiting one of Pinar Del Rio’s famous Cigar Factories. There will be a subterranean boat ride through the El Indio limestone cave system followed by lunch in the Ranchon San Vicente countryside restaurant. In the late afternoon, we will return our Vinales casas to relax on the patio or socialize with the local family.

Day 8 | Vinales > Havana After breakfast, we will depart to Las Terrazas community, situated in the foothills of the Sierra del Rosario Ecological Reserve, for lunch in one of their specialized restaurants. After lunch we will transfer back to Havana for your return flights or Havana hotel or onwards to Varadero where the tour ends. Terms and conditions: This tour is operated by World Journeys and is subject to their terms and conditions. Price is subject to availability and can change without notice. Credit card and booking fees may apply. For further information, please call 1300 391 590 or email info@seanstravel.com.au

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FAMILY TRAVEL

ON A BUDGET

Pre-planning

If you’re looking to save money when planning a family holiday make sure you research your options. Check out our website for inspiration and make sure you talk to us to get quality first-hand advice that will save you both stress and money. Choose a destination that doesn’t have a big impact on your budget’s bottom line. For example, instead of Fiji, why not spend that tiny bit extra on flights and head to Samoa, which is just a beautiful, plus the accommodation and the cost of living is less expensive - so you save money in the long run. Most of the time, the further you want to fly the more it’ll cost, so if you’re keeping an eye on the budget, why not explore close to home? We can put together amazing packages full of family activities without ever having to leave the country. If you are planning to go overseas, pick a destination with a good exchange rate. Or a spot where there are stacks of free activities to do, especially for the kids. Another good tip is to be flexible with the length of time you stay away. Escaping for 34 | TURBULENCE | ISSUE 08 | 2015

a weekend can be just as fantastic as taking an entire month off if you make it fun and exciting.

Tips to save money on flights Book your seats well in advance because as your holiday draws closer, cheaper departure dates and times may no longer be available. You can also save money by flying mid-week (on a Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday) rather than on the weekend which is the most popular time to travel. Flights that depart early in the morning or late at night on those days are often the cheapest. If you need a place to stay too, you may save money by getting a package deal which includes airfares and accommodation.

Travel at cheaper times Travelling in the “shoulder season” (the period immediately before and after peak times such as the school holidays) can definitely save you some money and families can reap big savings on flights and accommodation by travelling in off-peak periods, which are those times outside

of the popular seasons.

Check the school holidays calendar to find the best time to travel. School holidays tend to coincide with high travel periods but with a bit of planning you may still find a bargain! However, especially domestically, you won’t find fares on sale during school holidays.

Accommodation If travelling within Australia, we can find the best deals which often include things like free nights or other fantastic inclusions. Through our relationships with hotels and wholesale suppliers, we will work hard to ensure you get the most out of your travel dollar. For larger families, another way of saving money is renting a fully-equipped holiday home or an apartment at your destination - especially for longer holidays. Holiday homes offer weekly rates and in some cases the longer you stay the more money you’ll shave off the rate. It also means you can cook your own meals instead of eating out all the time and wash your own clothes rather than spending money (and time) at a laundromat or paying exorbitant laundry bills at hotels.

Going on a family holiday doesn’t have to put too much strain on your budget - especially if you take heed of these money saving tips! You’ll be surprised by how far your money can take you. We can definitely help you find the perfect holiday home, as we have access to over 33,000 dedicated and quality tested holiday homes throughout Europe, the UK and the US. Soon, we hope to be able to offer this service within Australia as well - watch this space.

For more information on planning the perfect family holiday, visit our website or call 1300 391 590 and speak to a travel expert.

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SEAN’s

TRAVEL TIPS

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Luggage - there is no standard set of rules that applies to all airlines. The rules around baggage allowances, size limits and travelling with obscure items differ between the airlines, the aircraft and the cabin classes. Navigating these rules can be complicated, and even an experienced flyer can get caught out occasionally. SAFETY FIRST Knowing what you can or cannot take on an aircraft is a pretty simple exercise. There is little to no variation between airlines, primarily because dangerous and prohibited items are regulated by law rather than airline policy. This goes a long way to reducing passenger confusion. Some items must be relegated to check-in luggage due to the risk of hazard within the cabin. Other items can’t be taken on board an aircraft full-stop. Anything that can clearly be used to threaten or restrain someone is generally not permitted in the cabin. This includes such items as pool cues, crampons and even cable ties. If you are not sure if an item is prohibited, check with us, the airline, put in your checked baggage or it might be best if you consider leaving it at home.

KEEP CALM AND CARRY ON Carry-on luggage has always been a contentious issue. Airlines set their own guidelines on what is allowed and they also have a lot of discretion on whether or not they let you

through. Airlines can have different rules for domestic travel as well as long and short haul international travel. The rules may stipulate a number of pieces or, more often, it is calculated on weight and dimensions. Always do your homework on the luggage allowances of your carrier. You don’t want to risk facing being without your essentials during a flight to London because you’ve been forced to check your bag.

FLY UP A CLASS With many airlines, holding a ticket to a higher cabin class ticket or a higher frequent flyer status can increase your baggage allowance, so make sure you collect those points and status credits at every opportunity, especially if, like us, you like to shop while you’re away.

PLAYING BY SOMEONE ELSE’S RULES If you hold a ticket for an airline where one or more of the segments are operated by a partner airline, different luggage rules may apply. For example, if you are flying Virgin Australia to Europe via Asia, with a segment operated by

Singapore Airlines – then Singapore Airlines’ baggage allowances will apply. Always double check at the time you are booking to ensure you have the appropriate amount of baggage.

WEIRD TRAVEL PARTNERS Did you know, if you are flying with a cello, you have to buy it a seat? Sometimes, you might have to take something unusual. This could be a bike, a kayak, surf gear or a pair of 2 metre wide hats for a costume party in Venice.

30kgs of excess luggage for the whole new suitcase’s worth of shopping you’ve just done, it might be worth your while to ship it as freight instead of paying the excess luggage costs.

At the end of the day, as with most things in travel, a little bit of planning goes a long way. For more information and advice on your own personal luggage needs, give us a call or email info@ seanstravel.com.au

Certain items must be specially packaged and be labelled a certain way. Always, always, always contact us or the airline if traveling with something that isn’t a suitcase.

EXCESS BAGGAGE - BUY BEFORE YOU FLY Whatever you do, never just rock up to the airport and hope for the best. If you do, it could cost you some serious cash. Wherever possible, plan ahead and purchase additional luggage. Like travel insurance, it would be better to have it and not need it, than need it and not have it. If you find yourself at the airport faced with buying TURBULENCE | ISSUE 088 |2015 | 37

MileHi Socialise and network with your fellow flyers

The name is already raising eyebrows, with many lauding it as ‘Tinder for the sky’. Despite the cheeky moniker, the app makers insist their intentions are honourable.

While you might think that the last thing that the world needs is yet another social network, MileHi is working to overcome what is probably one of the most awkward social situations of them all – being trapped on a plane at 30’000 feet with hundreds of total strangers – and doing so in a way that breaks down barriers and encourages sociability. It’s an opportunity to meet your fellow flyer, join discussions and polls and chat with newfound contacts using the app’s inbuilt chat system. How does it work? Create a profile and enter in your flight details. You’ll then see other Milehi users on your flight. You can even search similar flights and connect with other people going to your destination. So who would get the most out of this app? MileHi is great for business travellers who might want to network with colleagues or get ahead of the game by finding others who are headed to the same conference, exhibition or trade show. It is also great for the holidaymakers who like to share ideas, tips and meet other regular holidaymakers and travelling families. People who just want to expand their circle of friends while they are away can use this app to browse and find other like-minded individuals to party and socialise with. And okay, we can’t review this app without at least acknowledging that yes, MileHi has great potential for singles to meet someone special. You can introduce yourself, break the ice and make first date plans at your destination. Perhaps it could be the start of something fantastic. www.milehi.me Available on Android HERE

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Available on iTunes HERE

l e v a r t s an

e s y m #

Introducing #myseanstravel – because it’s all about you. This year we aim to personalise your travel experience even further than before. To kick things off, we are inviting you to share your photos, experiences and feedback with us and the rest of the Sean Simmons Travel community across all our social media platforms. When you post about your travel to Facebook, Twitter or Instagram – let your travel expert and fellow travellers know by using the hashtag #myseanstravel You are our biggest inspiration, and we are striving to create a unique and personal travelling community. With your involvement, not only are you inspiring others with your travel experiences, you are helping us hone our tailored services so we can better meet your travel needs. If that isn’t enough, we may have a few surprises coming up exclusively for our social media community – so join us and get tagging. How do you find us? there are many different ways for you to connect WITH us online. Simply click the links below to be taken directly to our social media profiles.

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FLIGHT DECK

Travel information & Industry News WELCOME TO OUR BUILDING We would like to extend a warm Sean Simmons Travel welcome to the two most recent tentants in our building. The Australian Style Institute have moved in (literally) next door. We have had a wonderful time chatting with Lauren and her team as they set up their new space where they will be training and mentoring those looking to succeed in Australia’s thriving style and image industry.

ALL BLACKS FEATURE IN AIR NEW ZEALAND’S LATEST SAFETY VIDEO New Zealand’s rugby team the All Blacks are the stars in Air New Zealand’s latest safety video, which has drawn inspiration from the Men In Black movie franchise of the late 1990s. Called Men in Black Safety Defenders, the video features All Black Israel Dagg rapping the safety message alongside Australian-born artist Stan Walker. “I grew up listening to the iconic Men in Black movie soundtrack song. Hopefully I’ve done it some justice,” Dagg said. Actor Rip Torn, who played the chief in the first two Men In Black movies is also in the video, while there are cameo appearances from non-Kiwi rugby greats Australia’s David Campese, 40 | TURBULENCE | ISSUE 08 | 2015

Our other big welcome is to the new cafe Long Story Short who have taken over form ZaZa’s. It is sad to see ZaZa’s go as they have served us well with their Italian fusion cusine and treats for the last few years. We look forward to seeing what the new modern Australian fare is like and if any clients or suppliers are looking to set up a meeting, perhaps we could try it out together.

Airport Safety Week is returning for a second year in 2015.

They have come to a prime location and we wish them every success.

This year’s Airport Safety Week will take place from October 26-30 2015 and focus on airside safety, fatigue, runway safety, drug and alcohol management and noise.

England’s Martin Johnson and Augustin Pichot from Argentina. “We’ve worked with the All Blacks on previous safety videos and thought it would be fun this time around to have them step into the shoes of the other highly trained Men in Black. The result is not only entertaining but makes people sit up and take notice of the key safety messages,” Air NZ head of global grand development Jodi Williams said in a statement on Thursday. All Blacks Captain Richie McCaw, who was joined for the safety video by teammates Dan Carter, Kieran Read, Keven Mealamu, Sam Whitelock and Dagg, as well as coach Steve Hansen, said everyone enjoyed the experience. “We had a lot of laughs on set and were blown away by Israel’s hidden singing

talent. If rugby doesn’t work out for him he clearly has a promising career as a backup singer,” McCaw said. Air NZ said the safety video was created in collaboration with Sony Pictures Entertainment’s Content Licensing group, Sony Pictures Imageworks and Sony Pictures Entertainment’s Archives & Collections. Sony Pictures Entertainment executive vice president Emmanuelle Borde described the concept the safety video as “really clever”. “It’s been exciting to help Air New Zealand bring the Men in Black universe to life in this unique way,” Borde said. The Men In Black Safety Defenders video can be viewed by clicking here.

The first ever Airport Safety Week took place in 2014, with 74 airports in Australia and New Zealand participating a week-long series of events to promote a safe working environment for airport staff.

Events that took place in 2014 and are also planned for this year’s event include a foreign object debris (FOD) walk, where all airport staff and contractors, even those whose jobs do not require them to be airside, would be able to walk a section of the aerodrome to look for items such as small pieces of metal, luggage tags or other debris that could interfere with a flight taking off or landing. And airport workers will also be encouraged to wear personal protective equipment, such as high-vis vests or ear muffs, to work on one day of Airport Safety Week. The event is a collaboration between the Australian Airports Association (AAA), New Zealand Airports Association and supported by a number of industry partners. More information can be found on the Airport Safety Week website.

“I bet you say that to all the boys who finance your international travel.” John Green, The Fault in Our Stars

VIRGIN AUSTRALIA TOUGHENS UP ON AIRPORT CHANGES Starting August 19, if you have booked a Virgin Australia flight through your travel agent or online, Virgin Australia ground crew will only be able to make changes to your flights at the airport under the following circumstances: • Passenger is travelling same day and requests to change to an earlier or later flight. • Passenger has purchased a flexible

Xiamen Airlines to land in Sydney on November 30 Sydney Airport has confirmed Xiamen Airlines will begin service to the NSW capital from both Xiamen and Fuzhou from late November. Xiamen Airlines, which is 51 per cent owned by China Southern Airlines, will start three times a week Fuzhou-Sydney service from November 30, with two flights a week between Xiamen and Sydney to start on December 6. Both services will be flown by Boeing 787-8s. Sydney Airport chief executive Kerrie Mather said confirmation of the Xiamen Airlines service,

domestic fare (according to fare rules) • Subject to fare rules and availability, original class of travel as per ticket is available. • No fare difference is applicable. An airport service fee of $35 will be applicable to all changes made at the airport if the change could have been actioned via the website or through your travel agent. If the original class of travel is not available at the time of request, you will still need to contact us to make

which has been mooted for some months, reflected the benefits of the recently expanded bilateral air services agreement between Australia and China. “It’s great that Sydney has secured the first routes from secondary Chinese cities since the expansion of the Chinese and Australian governments’ air services agreement in early 2015,” Mather said in a statement. “This is expected to further grow the important Chinese passenger market, which is expected to be Australia’s largest inbound visitor market next year.” With a population of about seven million, Fuzhou

the changes to collect the additional charges and to reissue your ticket. To help avoid additional fees, wherever possible try to call us during business hours to make any amendments to your booking. If, for whatever reason, we are unavailable and travel is imminent, the airport will be able to make changes however please note that all fees will be payable, including reissue fee, fare / tax difference and the airport service fee.

the capital of the Fujian province located in the south east of China. Meanwhile, Xiamen, also in the Fujian province, has a population of about 3.5 million. Sydney Airport said Xiamen Airlines, which is a member of the Skyteam alliance, would be the fifth carrier from mainland China at the airport alongside China Southern, China Eastern, Air China and Sichuan Airlines. Cathay Pacific also serves Sydney from its Hong Kong hub.

Sean Simmons Travel office hours are 8.30am to 6.00pm, but we are available for assist you after hours if necessary (additional fees may apply). We proudly manage our emergency hotline in-house so that you are always speaking to someone familiar with your travel. If you need to contact us after hours, simply call the office on 1300 391 590 or 03 9429 3294 and follow the prompts.

Sundays, with the return flight a lunchtime departure from the NSW capital on Wednesdays, Fridays and Mondays. The Xiamen-Sydney flights will depart on Wednesdays and Saturdays evenings from Xiamen and return from Sydney at noon on Thursdays and Sundays.

According to flight schedules published on the Airline Route website, Xiamen will depart Fuzhou as an overnight service on Tuesdays, Thursdays and

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UPDATES & NEWS VIRGIN AUSTRALIA LAUNCHES NEW BUSINESS CLASS OFFERING ON ITS REFITTED A300 FLEET Virgin Australia’s first commercial service with what chief executive John Borghetti describes as the best domestic business class seat in the world has taken off. Virgin flight VA559, operated by Airbus A330200 VH-XFH, departed Sydney Airport a little after 1300 local time on Monday bound for Perth fitted with the new cabin featuring 20 B/E Aerospace-designed herringbone business class seats with direct aisle access laid out 1-2-1 across the cabin. Earlier on Monday morning, Borghetti said during a media tour of the first reconfigured aircraft the new seats were longer and wider than any other business class seat flown domestically by any other airline anywhere in the world. “There is not another domestic business class that operates out of a domestic terminal anywhere in the world that would be as good as this business class. Full stop,” Borghetti said told reporters. “It’s the business.” Virgin’s six A330-200s currently fly between Perth and Australia’s east coast capitals, as well as between Sydney and Nadi, Fiji, on a seasonal basis. And although the resources 42 | TURBULENCE | ISSUE 08 | 2015

boom that fueled the West Australian economy in recent years is now a thing of the past, Borghetti said Virgin’s performance on the Perth route was still holding up well as the airline secured more corporate accounts and a greater share of government travel spending. Moreover, there were no plans to follow Qantas’s recent move to reduce A330 services on transcontinental flights. “We are very happy with the level of improvement on that route,” Borghetti said. “We have no intention of withdrawing any services. They are performing very well and we are happy with that.” Virgin is reducing the number of business class seats on board its A330200s from 24 under the old configuration to 20 with the B/E Aerospace seats installed. However, Borghetti said the airline would be “competitive” for both pricing and the ability to redeem flights via Virgin’s frequent flyer program Velocity. “When you get to pricing or redemptions, it is a question of competitiveness and I can assure you will still be as competitive as we were and are and will always be,” Borghetti said.

“If you are competitive still in your pricing and you have got a better product, then you’ll get that market share shift and that’s where the profits are. When you have got competitive fares and a superior product, that’s where the money comes.”

passengers at 40,000 feet.

In addition to the new seats, Virgin is also installing two Nespresso machines on board each of its A330s as part of a worldfirst collaboration with the coffee maker.

“If it’s good enough for George Clooney.”

Virgin said its A330 fleet will be the first aircraft in the world to have the Nespresso by B/E Aerospace machines serving coffee to

“I can’t find anybody that likes airline coffee,” Borghetti said. “As good as ours is, it is not as good as the barista one that you get in the lounge. Now it will be.

While the rollout of the new seats, which feature black, purple, white and silver as their primary colour’s with finishes that look to have taken some inspiration from inside a sports car, has been delayed from an initial March start date, all six A330-200s were due to be completed by the end of October.

“Travel makes one modest. You see what a tiny place you occupy in the world.” Gustave Flaubert

The installation of the new seats is being completed in Singapore. Qantas began A330 services with its new business class in December 2014, and the airline currently has 10 aircraft flying both domestically and internationally with the latest Thomson Aero Seating-designed seats. Asked why Virgin’s seat was better than what Qantas had installed on its A330s, Borgetti said: “Just look at it.” Expanding a bit further, Borghetti said some of the design principles when creating the new seat was that it needed to be appealing to the eye, it had to be comfortable, there had to be privacy and it had to be practical. “You add all those things up and it ticks all the boxes,” Borghetti said. Borghetti said the delays to the rollout were due to some regulatory approvals

ACCC approves DeltaVirgin alliance for five more years Australia’s competition regulator has given final approval for Virgin Australia and Delta to extend their alliance on trans-Pacific routes for a further five years. The final determination, handed down on Friday, follows the Australian Competition and Consumer

for the seatbelts, given the seat has not previously been installed on the A330 aircraft before and needed to undergo some specific testing. “The testing was all around the seatbelt and the airbag within the seatbelt,” Borghetti said. “Contrary to popular belief, it was the seatbelt only.” Meanwhile, installation of the new business class seats and refreshed premium economy cabin on board Virgin’s five Boeing 777-300ERs was on track to commence in November and was unaffected by the seatbelt regulatory issues given the B/E Aerospace seats were already certified for the big Boeing twin. Although the same seats will be used, there will be extra storage space and wider seats given the 777 has a bigger cabin diameter compared with the A330.

new Virgin Perth terminal to be ready by November Virgin Australia chief executive John Borghetti expects the airline’s new terminal at Perth Airport to be ready by the end of November. The new Virgin terminal was due to open in June 2014. However, delays and building issues have forced Perth Airport to push back Virgin’s move in date on several occasions. As a result, Virgin has continued to operate from three separate terminals while waiting for its new facility to be completed. “I was there about a month or so ago and I went for a tour of the building site,” he said. “We are ready when the terminal gets handed over. That will be an outstanding terminal.” Borghetti told reporters during a media tour of the airline’s new business class seats at Sydney Airport on Monday. Currently, Virgin’s operates from both sides of the Perth Airport precinct, which has added a layer of complexity for those passengers connecting between fights. On the international side, Virgin’s international flights depart and arrive at Terminal 1, while services operated by Virgin Australia Regional Airlines are at Terminal 2. On the domestic side, Virgin’s mainline services are located at Terminal 3. The new terminal, called the Virgin Australia pier, is located on the international side at Terminal 1 and is expected to feature new check-in and bag drop technology as well as new Virgin lounges. Borghetti said in September 2014 the delays were costing Virgin tens of millions of dollars.

Commission’s (ACCC) interim approval for the jointventure partnership in June. The ACCC said the alliance, which has been in place since 2009, would benefit consumers and allow Virgin and Delta to compete more effectively against the likes of Qantas, American Airlines and United that also fly between Australia and the US.

“The ACCC accepts this integrated network will likely be valued by travellers between Australia and the US,” ACCC chairman Rod Sims said in a statement. Virgin Australia chief executive John Borghetti welcomed the ACCC’s decision. “Since the launch of the alliance in 2009, Virgin Australia and Delta have

delivered choice and competition across the Pacific,” Borghetti said in a statement. Meanwhile, Virgin and Etihad Airways have lodged their application to the ACCC to extend their global alliance, which took off in October 2010 and covers Australasia, Europe, the Middle East, Pakistan and Africa, for a further 10 years. TURBULENCE | ISSUE 088 |2015 | 43

SEAN SIMMONS TRAVEL

WORLD EVENTS CALENDAR Edinburgh Festival Edinburgh, Scotland 7 to 31 August 2015

V Festival Chelmsford London, England 22 - 23 August 2015

Mid-Autumn Festival Singapore, Singapore September and October 2015

Singapore F1 Grand Prix Singapore, Singapore 20 September 2015

Cultural Harbour Festival Denmark 7 - 9 August 2015

Minnesota Renaissance Festival Minneapolis-St Paul, Minnesota Weekends 22 August through 4 October 2015

Italian F1 Grand Prix, Milan, Italy 4 - 6 September 2015

RomaEuropa Festival Rome, Italy 23 September to 22 November 2015

New Mexico State Fair Albuquerque, New Mexico 10 - 20 September 2015

Monaco Yacht Show Monte-Carlo, Monaco 23 - 26 September 2015

New York Fashion Week New York City, New York 10 - 17 September 2015

Joy of Jazz Festival Johannesburg, South Africa 24 - 26 September 2015

Toronto International Film Festival Toronto, Ontario 10 - 20 September 2015

Festival of La Merce Barcelona, Spain 24 September 2015

Shanghai Tourism Festival Shanghai, China 11 - 15 September 2015

Annual Buffalo Roundup Black Hills, South Dakota 25 September 2015

Floriade Canberra, Capital Territory 12 September to 11 October 2015

Texas State Fair Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas 25 September to 18 October 2015

Prague Autumn Festival Prague, Czech Republic 12 September to 1 October 2015

Moon Festival Shanghai, China 27 September 2015

Autumn Festival Paris, France September to December 2015

Berlin Marathon Berlin, Germany 27 September 2015

Independence Day Costa Rica 15 September 2015

Mid-Autumn/Moon Festival Hong Kong City, Hong Kong 27 September 2015

Independence Day Mexico City, Mexico 15 - 16 September

Japanese F1 Grand Prix Tokyo, Japan 27 September 2015

Pentaport Rock Festival Seoul, South Korea 7 - 9 August 2015 Elvis Week Memphis, Tennessee 8 - 16 August 2015 Sziget Festival Budapest, Hungary 10 - 17 August 2015 Tango Festival Buenos Aires, Argentina 12 - 25 August 2015 Reykjavik Jazz Festival Reykjavik, Iceland 12 - 16 August 2015 Iowa State Fair Des Moines, Iowa 13 - 23 August 2015 Brussels Flower Carpet Brussels, Belgium 13 - 16 August 2015 Helsinki Festival Helsinki, Finland 14 - 30 August 2015 Edinburgh International Book Festival Edinburgh, Scotland 15 - 31 August 2015 Helsinki City Marathon Helsinki, Finland 15 August 2015 Melbourne Writers Festival Melbourne, Victoria 20 - 30 August 2015 ReykjavĂk Cultural Night Reykjavik, Iceland 20 August annually Belgian F1 Grand Prix Brussels, Belgium 21 - 23 August 2015

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Santa Fe Indian Market Santa Fe, New Mexico 22 - 23 August 2015 Slavic Village Harvest Festival Cleveland, Ohio 22 August 2015 ReykjavĂk Marathon Reykjavik, Iceland 22 August 2015 New Zealand Fashion Week Auckland, New Zealand 24 - 30 August 2015 La Tomatina Valencia, Spain 26 August 2015 Museum Quay Festival (Museumsuferfest) Frankfurt, Germany 28 - 30 August 2015 Hungry Ghost Festival (Yue Lan) Hong Kong City, Hong Kong 28 August 2015 National Festival of Kites Colombo, Sri Lanka 28 August 2015 Street Parade Zurich, Switzerland 29 August 2015 Notting Hill Carnival London, England 30 - 31 August 2015 Burning Man Las Vegas, Nevada 30 August to 7 September 2015 US Open Tennis Tournament New York City, New York 31 August to 13 September 2015

Breckenridge Festival of Film Rocky Mountains, Colorado 17 - 20 September 2015 Monterey Jazz Festival San Francisco, California 18 - 20 September 2015 Aloha Festivals Oahu, Hawaii 19 - 26 September 2015 Oktoberfest Munich, Germany 19 September to 4 October 2015