ISSUE 11
TURBULENCE
FINALIS T 2013, 2014 & 2015
DESTINATION
RIO WIN A christmas HamPer
HOT Air FARes
To Europe, Fiji & Canada
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
top 5 DestinationS for 2016 E enquiries@seanstravel.com.au W seansimmons travel.com.au
ABN 48153795129 | AFTA 10216 | ATAS A10436
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MERRY CHRISTMAS FOR A HAPPY HOLIDAY SEASON, ENTRUST YOUR TRAVEL PLAN WITH AN ATAS ACCREDITED TRAVEL AGENT To discover the benefits of booking through an ATAS travel agent like Sean Simmons Travel, visit ATAS.com.au
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THIS ISSUE 4 FROM THE EDITOR 6 RIO CARNIVAL 14 20% Off Quest Hotels
Save on Christmas travel OUR TOP 10 tips
18 Top 5 destinations
Our picks for 2016
HOT FARES
28
31 WIN A HAMPER
Canada in summer
32
38 Canada in Winter
SEAN’S TRAVEL Tips
40
42 Keep calm and carry on
winners announced
44
46 Italy
Planet of the apps
51
52 Heston Blumenthal
Book smart and travel safe
54
55 #myseanstravel
Flight deck
56
61 Sean simmons recommends
2016 Sports calendar
62
Canada, Europe & Fiji
Tips to help make your travel hassle free
Antler Luggage & Travel voucher winners
Best of 2015
16
Wodonga, Albury & Albury Townsend
Important information from ATAS
travel information & industry newS
From Bockers & Pony
Top 5 hand luggage essentials
A readers perspective
At the crown melbourne
A readers holiday 2015 roundup
TURBULENCE | ISSUE 11 |2015 | 3
Welcome to another exciting edition of Turbulence.
FROM THE EDITOR
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As the year draws to a close…. WHOA – HANG ON – where the heck did 2015 go? I think I blinked. What did I miss, what did I miss? Time flies when you are having fun. And this industry is never dull! Our sympathies to all who lost family, friends and loved ones, in the barbaric attacks in Paris. This senseless slaughter of innocents, and the attempt to undermine our most basic of human rights - our freedom - must never be forgotten nor must it go unanswered. Our right to live, and our right to choose our own path, must be protected and held aloft as the minimum we will accept for our families, our children, grandchildren, in fact for the entire human race, irrespective of religion, creed, colour, gender, sexual orientation or the colour of you hair! Looking back over he past 12 months, we have seen some major developments around the world that have inexorably changed the future of travel. The huge reduction in the cost of aviation fuel has seen airlines reasses their fleet requirements, alongside the already planned retirement of fuel guzzling, older equipment, so we are seeing a rise in twin engine aircraft and more point to point traffic rather than mega aircraft sevicing only hub networks. However, there are still opportunities for the ‘jumbo’ size transport, and we have seen Emirates increase its A380 fleet exponentially, Qatar introduce them to its network,and Etihad revolutionise travel with its new luxury offering, The Residence!
Security has once again been in the spotlight, with governments, airlines, airports and the global aviation governing body (IATA) working together to ensure our safety, and the exploration of new technology to enhance screening processes at all stages of the journey. And of course, we have seen some fantastic innovation from the airlines by way of product enhancements and service improvements. Hats off to Air New Zealand for winning major awards, again, for its Premium Economy seating, it’s Skybed product and the incredible new lounges being rolled out globally. This issue.... We have crammed in so much to make this a bumper Christmas issue, and I am sure there is something here to whet every appetite. Carnival in Rio to Skiing in Kamloops, airfares to Europe and Fiji, a personal report on Italy... Phew... So much to read. So, with no further preamble from me, I invite you to enjoy our final issue for 2015, and from all of us here to all of you out there, thank you for your continued readership and support, and wishing you all a Very Merry Christmas and a Safe, Prosperous New Year. See you on the flip side. Watch out for your next issue of Turbulence coming in February 2016.
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DESTINATION
Rio HISTORY OF “CARNIVAL”
The roots of Carnival trace back to the ancient Romans and Greeks who celebrated the rites of spring. Across Europe, including France, Spain and Portugal, people annually gave thanks by throwing parties, wearing masks and dancing in the streets. Such traditions were carried over to the New World.
The Portuguese first brought the concept of “celebration or carnival” to Rio around 1850. The practice of holding balls and masquerade parties was imported by the city’s bourgeoisie from Paris. However, in Brazil, the traditions soon became different. Over time, they acquired unique elements deriving from African and American-Indian cultures.
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Groups of people would parade through the streets playing music and dancing. It was usual that during Carnival aristocrats would dress up as commoners, men would cross-dress as women and the poor dress up as princes and princesses - social roles and class differences were expected to be forgotten once a year but only for the duration of the festival. Brazilians used to riot the Carnival until it was accepted by the government as an expression of culture. The black slaves became actively involved in the celebrations. They were able to be free for three days. Nowadays the slums’ black communities are still the most involved groups in all the carnival
preparations and they are the ones for whom Rio Carnival means the most. By the end of the 18 century the festivities were enriched by competitions. People would not just dress up in costumes but also perform a parade accompanied by an orchestra of strings, drums and other instruments. These ever more organized competitions became the main attractions of the Carnival in Rio de Janeiro.
For all ENQUIRIES email enquiries@seanstravel.com.au TURBULENCE | ISSUE 11 |2015 | 7
DESTINATION
Rio Travel Tips for Rio Carnival • The most important tip! Rio Carnival is the world’s biggest and most popular party. If you wish to experience Rio Carnival it is important to organise your flights well in advance. • Accommodation for Rio Carnival can be booked independently or booked through a tour provider but be aware that if you leave your booking till the last minute you are likely to miss out. Our packages offer great value for money and you’ll have accommodation in the same hotel for the whole carnival period. Book early to avoid disappointment! • The best views at the Sambadrome are from the cadeiras (ground level terrace seats), the arquibancadas (terrace seats) and the camarotes (boxes). If your Sambadrome ticket is in sector 13 you’ll have a great opportunity denied to other festival goers – the chance to rescue and
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wear the costumes left behind by samba school competitors! Our clients have scored giant bird headdresses, glittery feathered outfits and a huge variety of other mad looking gear at past events. • Get out there and samba with the locals and mix it up. You’ll find no shortage of dance partners out there to shake your booty with. • Security isn’t too much of an issue if you take some sensible precautions. If you take your camera with you keep it out of sight as much as possible. One idea is to keep it in a plastic grocery bag to make it look ordinary and not expensive. Wear your backpack on your front and keep an arm over it. • Leave the jewellery at home and get into the festive spirit with cheap beads, flashing lights, short skirts, feathers and sequins. Same goes for the girls!
• This is the world’s biggest party so do as much as you can during Rio Carnival, it’ll be the party of your lifetime and there’ll be plenty of time to sleep afterwards. • Keep emergency money in your bra or underwear and wear a money belt in case of pickpockets, who tend to be out in force at carnival time. • When you need a break, head into a por kilo restaurant to fuel up – you weigh your food and pay by the kilo, hence the name. You’ll find the food is tasty and great value. • The banks are closed during carnival and cash machines have been known to run dry, so make sure you get plenty of money out to keep you going before you arrive in Rio de Janeiro.
For all ENQUIRIES email enquiries@seanstravel.com.au TURBULENCE | ISSUE 11 |2015 | 9
DESTINATION
Rio RIO CARNIVAL PACKAGE 5 DAYS FROM $1,769 PP TWIN SHARE
Join the euphoric celebrations of Rio Carnival. Explore the city by day and revel in with the locals at street parties by night! On Sunday night you will watch samba schools in spectacular costumes as they drum and shimmy their way down the world-famous Sambadrome arena on magnificently decorated floats from Sector 13. Accommodation and breakfast is included from Friday night until Tuesday morning. Rio Carnival 2016: 5th-9th February 2016 Rio Carnival 2017: 24-28th February 2017
INCLUDES • Sector 11 Sambadrome Ticket • 4 night(s) accommodation • 4 breakfasts Day 1 Arrive in Rio de Janeiro DAY 2 Find a bloco for a street party, take a samba class, book a city tour or admire the views from Sugarloaf Mountain on Rio’s busiest weekend of the year. DAY 3 Tonight we meet in the lobby and walk to over to the Sambadrome (ticket included) together to watch one of the biggest parades on earth. DAY 4 Recover from the Sambadrome on the beach or continue partying at a Bloco. DAY 5 Depart Rio de Janeiro. Terms & Conditions: Flights not included. Prices are per person based on share accommodation. Prices are subject to availability. Bookings are subject to Tucan Travel terms and conditions as outlined at: http://www.tucantravel.com/about-us/ how-to-book/booking-conditions. Credit card and booking fees may apply.
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RIO & BUZIOS PERFECT FOR EITHER SIDE OF CARNIVAL 6 DAYS, 5 NIGHTS FROM $1,745 PP TWIN SHARE
A great combination - first explore magical Rio de Janeiro - amazing beaches, wonderful scenery and a vibrant cafe and entertainment scene. After a few days there, travel two hours to the Buzios Peninsula with its 24 beaches and unique combination of sophistication and laid back charm.
INCLUDES • Independent tour with local English speaking guides • 5 nights accommodation in your selected category of hotel • Transfers & transportation • Personal meet & greet on arrival in Rio de Janeiro • Sightseeing & entrance fees • 5 Breakfasts Day 1 Arrive in Rio de Janeiro. Private transfer on arrival to your hotel situated in the Copacabana Beach area. DAY 2 Rio de Janeiro Full day tour of Rio including the iconic Sugar Loaf Mountain and the Statue of Christ the Redeemer - both of which offer sensational views of the city and beaches below. Day 3: Rio de Janeiro Day at leisure to swim at Copacabana or Ipanema, shop or perhaps enjoy an optional tour. Day 4: Rio de Janeiro > Buzios This morning transfer 2.5 hours to Buzios, and on arrival check into your hotel. Day 5: Buzios Relax and enjoy one of the marvellous beaches and great nightlife and restaurants available here. Day 6: Depart Buzios > Rio de Janeiro Transfer from Buzios directly to Rio de Janeiro Airport or if you prefer, back to the Copacabana Beach area in Rio. Terms & Conditions: Flights not included.This tour is operated by World Journeys and is subject to their terms and conditions. Pricing may vary during Carnival, Easter, Christmas and other international events and conferences. Pricing subject to availability and can change without notice. Credit card and booking fees may apply. Please contact your travel agent for more information.
For all ENQUIRIES email enquiries@seanstravel.com.au TURBULENCE | ISSUE 11 |2015 | 11
DESTINATION
Rio IGUASSU FALLS - A GREAT ADD ON FOR A LARGER SOUTH AMERICAN ADVENTURE! 3 DAYS, 2 NIGHTS FROM $866 PP TWIN SHARE
There is no question that the mighty waterfalls at Iguazu are the greatest in the world. Situated on the border separating Argentina from Brazil, it is important to view the falls from both sides as the vistas are completely different. We recommend you stay at one of the hotels inside situated inside the National Parks on either side of the falls as this allows much more time to explore the walkways and marvellous viewpoints of the falls. We highly recommend spending at least two nights at the falls, as both the Argentine and Brazilian sides of this wondrous UNESCO Heritage site are a must to visit.
INCLUDES • Independent tour with local English speaking guides • National Park fees to both Argentine & Brazilian side Iguassu National Parks • 2 nights accommodation at your selected hotel • Transfers and transportation (from Argentina side Iguazu Airport) • Sightseeing and entrance fees • 2 Breakfasts Day 1: Arrive Iguassu Arrival transfer from the airport in Argentina and tour the Argentine side of the falls and marvel at the incredible Devil’s Throat cataract. Day 2: Iguassu Falls Tour of the Brazilian side of the falls for a completely different panorama. Day 3: Depart Iguassu Falls Transfer to the airport for departure Choice of hotels: Sheraton Iguazu Resort & Spa. Belmond Hotel Das Cataratas. Terms & Conditions: Flights not included. This tour is operated by World Journeys and is subject to their terms and conditions. Pricing may vary during Carnival, Easter, Christmas and other international events and conferences. Pricing subject to availability and can change without notice. Credit card and booking fees may apply. Please contact your travel agent for more information.
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AMAZON CRUISE - PLAN AHEAD AND DO A NYE CRUISE IN 2016! 4 DAYS, 3 NIGHTS FROM $2,415 PP TWIN SHARE
The M/V Desafio is a three-masted sailing ship offering a fascinating cruise on the Amazon and Negro rivers. Accommodating just 24 passengers, with a choice of upper and lower deck cabins, all cabins have private facilities and are air-conditioned. Explore the Amazon rainforest, one of the world’s last great unexplored frontiers.
INCLUDES • • • •
3 nights accommodation 3 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 3 dinners Excursions with an English speaking guide Return airport transfers in Manaus
Day 1: Arrive Manaus and transfer to the Tropical Hotel to board the M/V Desafio at 2pm. Set off on the Amazon river and settle into your cabin. After dinner enjoy a canoe excursion spotting night birds. Day 2: Amazon Cruising Morning jungle excursion to observe the local flora then visit a typical Caboclo village to see their traditional way of life. Afternoon excursion to visit the surrounding lakes and in the evening enjoy some caiman spotting. Day 3: Amazon Cruising Early morning excursion to view the sunrise and hear the sounds of the forest while observing hundreds of birds. After breakfast enjoy a piranha fishing excursion and a choice of more activities depending on river conditions. Day 4: Manaus Sail to the ‘Meeting of the Waters’ where the black water of the River Negro meets the brown water of the River Solimoes - running side by side for some kilometres until they finally mix. Return to Manaus arriving at 11:30 am and transfer to the airport for your departure flight. Terms & Conditions: Flights not included. This tour is operated by World Journeys and is subject to their terms and conditions. Pricing may vary during Carnival, Easter, Christmas and other international events and conferences. Pricing subject to availability and can change without notice. Credit card and booking fees may apply. Please contact your travel agent for more information.
For all ENQUIRIES email enquiries@seanstravel.com.au TURBULENCE | ISSUE 11 |2015 | 13
Sean simmons travel
EXCLUSIVE
Quest Albury Townsend 14 | TURBULENCE | ISSUE 11 | 2015
Accommodating both sides of the border
20% off the best available rate Quest Wodonga
Quest Albury
Located in the heart of Wodonga’s CBD with easy access on & off the free-way, Quest Wodonga has been stylishly designed to accommodate both the corporate & leisure traveller. Featuring 80 brand new studio, one, two and three bedroom serviced apartments,
The perfect relaxation destination in Albury boasting Albury’s only 4 1/2 star accommodation in the city centre.
Quest Wodonga is a great alternative to your traditional hotel room. Our onsite gymnasium, outdoor heated swimming pool & BBQ area allow you to relax in your down time or be treated to an memorable food & drink experience at our on-site restaurant Huon Hill.
With newly refurbished studio, one, two and three bedroom apartments offering full kitchen and laundry facilities. Quest Albury also offers an on-site restaurant, Q Manhattans, offering breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as a tapas bar to relax with a cocktail in the evenings. Quest Albury also features endota day spa, where you can experience the best in massages, facials and body treatments.
Quest Albury Townsend
Sean Simmons Exclusive Deal: Book before February 29th 2016 for stays between April 1st & July 31st to receive:
20% off the best available rate at Quest Wodonga, Quest Albury & Quest tAlbury Townsend. Housed in the historic, heritage listed Woolstores building, Quest Albury on Townsend offers 79 serviced apartments which have been stylishly designed to accommodate both the corporate & leisure traveller.
To book, please send your email enquiry to: info@seanstravel.com.au Or Call us on 03 9429 3294 Or why not book online - HERE!
Enjoy a workout in the in-house fitness centre, complimentary High Speed Wi-Fi & secure car parking. Conveniently located a short walk from Albury’s Dean Street, Botanic Gardens & Albury Train Station.
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Top 10 ways to save on
Christmas travel DURING the festive season wallets are given a thrashing, Christmas stockings will be bulging and Australians will be overindulging.
The biggest expense, however, is often travel, and research last month by the Commonwealth Bank found 3.2 million Australians are planning a Christmas holiday and each adult will spend an average $1152 on their trip. So we’ve asked the experts to explain how you can cut travel costs this holiday season.
1. Be flexible MyBudget founder and director Tammy May says flexibility “is the key when planning a holiday.” “You can check the date ranges and choose the ones that are the most affordable,” she says. “Flying on a Monday versus a weekend may be cheaper, but the longer you leave it things do get more expensive.”
2. Set a budget Be realistic and include all your expenses that you will be hit with while you’re away, May says. “Include hire car fees, taxis, food and all those expenses,” she says. “You can get caught out on holidays shopping because you get into the mindset of spending more money when you don’t need to.”
3. Use wi-fi May says when travelling abroad look at ways to communicate with friends and family without being hit with huge expenses. 16 | TURBULENCE | ISSUE 11 | 2015
“Look at using Viber, if you’re on wi-fi, it allows for free calls, texts,” she says. “There are other apps you can use that are free to leave voicemail messages too if you are hooked into wi-fi.”
4. Credit card costs AMP financial planner Tony Rigby says look carefully at the fees attached to using plastic, especially if travelling overseas. “Take into consideration the normal fees you are paying,” he says. “And if you haven’t budgeted properly and you’ve blown out your budget when you’re overseas, are you going to be able to cope when you get back with the interest rates on cards around 20 per cent?” Rigby says ATM charges can vary from bank to bank.
5. Currency exchange If heading overseas, don’t leave buying foreign currency to the last minute, avoid expensive airport conversions, and take a combination of cash, travel cards and credit cards, the Commonwealth Bank says. “By reviewing the resources and financial products available before departure, travellers can avoid being hit with unexpected international transaction fees,” CBA executive Michael Cant says. AMP’s Rigby says prepaid travel money cards are a great way to carry money, and remove the issues that surround carrying large wads of cash.
“It’s a bit like a credit card except it’s a standard cash card and it’s loaded up, for example by using BPAY,” he says. “They offer all different currencies and you are locking in an exchange rate in advance. You know exactly how much you are going to pay and can reload it whenever you want.”
6. Travel insurance Rigby says there are ways of cutting costs when taking out travel insurance cover. He says some financial institutions offer insurance cover with credit cards, but it depends on how much you spend on the card to whether or not you’ll be entitled to insurance cover.
7. Sign up to receive Turbulence The Sean Simmons Travel newsletter, Turbulence, is full of great deals and information designed to help you save money – like this article right here. We understand you don’t want spam clogging up your inbox, which is why we limit our emails only to once a month, with a very occasional STOP PRESS for those deals that simply can’t wait for the next edition. If you haven’t already, click HERE to subscribe
8. Country choice With the Aussie dollar remaining strong, hovering about US$1.04, Montresor says look at the currency rates at destinations
you might like to travel to in order to make your holiday more economical. “Think about travelling to the US and Europe as you will get more bang for your buck in these destinations,” she says. “Also don’t forget to claim back your value-added tax (VAT) if you’ve shopped in Europe.” It can be up to 20 per cent and varies between retailers and depends on how much you spend.
9. Accommodation choices Rigby says make sure you are booking accommodation that’s in a convenient Rigby says make sure you are booking accommodation that’s in a convenient location.“Look at booking a place that is selfcontained or has cooking facilities to cut down on costs and make it cheaper. Research your location and spend the time to make sure the place is within easy reach of things you want to see, make sure you’re within reasonable walking distance of places.”
10. Speak to Sean Simmons Travel We know that a holiday doesn’t have to be five star all the way in order to be a fantastic experience. We also know that if you shop at the right time, you can often indulge in luxury without the elitist price tag. Like you, we are budget conscious consumers, and can help you build a dream holiday that not only meets your needs but also matches your budget. Call us today and talk to our Travel Experts. TURBULENCE | ISSUE 11 |2015 | 17
TOP 5 destinations for
Need inspiration for your ultimate vacation? Our experts have gazed in to their crystal balls (meaning we spent hours researching your enquiries and market trends) to bring you our predications for the biggest destinations of next year. Want more information about these destinations and more? Make sure you speak to our travel experts and take advantage of their wealth of first-hand and industry experience. 18 | TURBULENCE | ISSUE 11 | 2015
NUmber 1 destination
BHUTAN Why you will love it.
Imagine a land hidden from the world for centuries, a pristine natural environment free of pollution and crime, guided by an official policy known as Gross National Happiness. Welcome to Bhutan, known to its people as Druk Yul - Land of the Thunder Dragon. Situated in the remote Himalayan mountains, with India and China its only neighbours, Bhutan is one of 10 biodiversity hotspots and the only remaining Mahayana Buddhist kingdom. The scenic majesty of its soaring mountains and pristine valleys, coupled with the vibrancy of its cultural life, makes Bhutan one of the last undiscovered destinations; an adventure to feed the soul and enrich the senses.
Why we think it will be big next year.
With experiential travel continuing its meteoric rise to the top of the global market trends, Bhutan is calling to people seeking an authentic and traditional destination with unspoiled landscapes and a genuinely welcoming people. Totally selfsufficient, Bhutan is evolving in to more than just a trekker’s wet dream. With new and refurbished hotels now offering a five star experience, Bhutan is becoming more accessible and appealing to a much broader audience than ever before.
BHUTAN ADVENTURE
Travel Expert APPROVED
Go there to… • Explore the national library in Thimphu, which houses the largest collection of Himalayan Buddhist literature and learn about ways to connect with your inner peace • Visit the world’s largest Buddha statue in Thimphu, which stands at 51.5 meters and is made of bronze and is gilded in gold • Meet the Takin, the national animal of Bhutan • Embark on a 2 hour hike to Bhutan’s most famous pilgrimage site, Taktsang Lhakhang (Tiger’s Nest Temple) located at 609 meters above the valley floor • Shop at the markets for authentic handicraft items
10 DAYS | FROM $2634 PP TWIN SHARE
Imagine a country where a land’s worth is measured differently – think Gross National Happiness instead of Gross Domestic Product. Now stop dreaming because you are in the unexplored mountain kingdom of Bhutan. Beauty and wisdom are revealed at each dzong, every gompa and, most incredibly, in the eyes of every smiling Buddhist monk you meet. On gentle treks through remote trails and visits to Paro, Thimphu, and Punakha, nature lovers, photographers, and culture junkies will uncover a purity of culture, traditions, and kindness.
What’s Included
• Arrival and departure transfers • Paro orientation tour
• • • • • • • • • • •
Taktsang Monastery visit and hike Thimphu guided tour Memorial Chorten and nunnery visit Hike to Khamsum Yueley Chorten Farm stay in Gangtey Haa gompa and Black and White Temple visit Hike to Kila Gompa Nunnery Trekking (2-day) with camping 7 nights in a hotel/guesthouse, 1 night camping, 1 night farmhouse stay 9 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 9 dinners Local guides and Experience Officer
Terms and conditions: This tour is provided by G Adventures and is subject to their terms and conditions. Prices are correct as at 4 December and are subject to availability and can change without notice. Credit card and booking fees may apply.
For all ENQUIRIES email enquiries@seanstravel.com.au TURBULENCE | ISSUE 11 |2015 | 19
NUmber 2 destination
BUENOS AIRES
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Why you will love it. With its wide, European-style boulevards, incredible food, raucous nightlife, Buenos Aires is a city unlike any other. In the evenings, “the city that never sleeps” is open to concerts, shows, theaters, cinemas, casinos, discos, coffee-shops and pubs that make visitors stay up until the small hours. Buenos Aires combines the laid-back ambience of a European capital with the fiery passion of a Latin-American barrio, a combination that makes it an irresistible travel destination. Buenos Aires is also the shopping capital of Argentina, with plenty of shopping malls and markets for buying souvenirs. Buenos Aires is also your gateway to rest of spectacular Argentina.
Why we think it will be big next year. All eyes turn to South America next year as Brazil hosts the world’s largest sporting event. With everyone clamouring to get as close to the action as possible, we put Argentina as the place to be, especially during the key months of August and September. You will be far enough away from the madness to enjoy a beautifully authentic Latin American experience, burn less of a hole in your credit card, and still be close enough to catch the live telecast of your favourite sport in a much more convenient time zone.
Go there to… • Watch the street performers of La Boca and the Plaza Dorrego • See the ostentatious Casa Rosada, former home of Juan and Eva Peron • Wander around the elaborate monuments of La Recoleta Cemetery • Navigate your way across Nueve de Julio Avenue, the widest street in the world • Learn to tango in one of Buenos Aires’ trendy nightclubs • Take the kids to the Buenos Aires Zoo or the Botanical Gardens • Catch a polo match or take a lesson
EATING AND DANCING ACROSS ARGENTINA 11 DAYS | FROM $3999 PER PERSON TWIN SHARE
This itinerary is a brilliant introduction to three Argentine staples - food, wine and tango. The diversity and quality of food on offer these days makes a visit to Buenos Aires a must for all foodies.. Whilst in BA, experience tango by visiting a milonga and taking a class, see the pros dance at one of BA’s most authentic tango shows, and then head due west to Mendoza, a thriving wine city at the foot of the Andes. No foodie trip to Argentina would be complete without a visit to Mendoza, the wine capital of South America. Argentine wines are incredible and offer so much more than just the excellent malbec-cabernet franc, bonarda and pinot noirs are particularly good grapes to look out for here.
What’s Included
• Return airport transfers • Welcome dinner at a gourmet Argentinian parrilla • Buenos Aires street food tour • Private 1 hour beginners Tango lesson • Private cooking demonstration and dining experience • Wine tasting with Tango show • City tour of Mendoza and closed door dining experience • Wine experience in the Uco Valley • Day of leisure in Mendoza • Full day at Iguassu Falls • Internal flights • National park entrance fees Terms and conditions: This tour is provided by Chimu Adventures and is subject to their terms and conditions. Prices are correct as at 4 December and are subject to availability and can change without notice. Credit card and booking fees may apply.
For all ENQUIRIES email enquiries@seanstravel.com.au TURBULENCE | ISSUE 11 |2015 | 21
NUmber 3 destination
CUBA
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Why you will love it.
Why we think it will be big next year.
With its mix of Spanish and African roots, is the largest, least commercialized, and most exciting island in the Caribbean. It’s known for its white-sand beaches, rolling mountains, cigars and rum. Cuba seems to be lost in time, somewhere in the 1950’s. It’s not just the old American cars in the streets or the exquisite colonial architecture with peeling paint in Old Havana. Instead, it’s a sense that the world of modern tourism has somehow largely bypassed the Caribbean’s largest island. Cuba is a country that appeases your senses without trying. There’s always something to see, the smell of cigars and the taste of rum, but overall it’s the music creating a continuous backing soundtrack that really sets the scene. Almost everywhere you go, any time of day, there is music - and with music comes dancing!
Millions of Americans will flock to Cuba now that trade and travel barriers are falling. Clearly, the time to go is now, before everything changes. Currently, there are only 35’000 hotel rooms across Cuba available to international tourists, greatly restricting the number of visitors at any one time, but with demand rising and development deals on the horizon, the exclusivity of this nostalgia-infused paradise isn’t going to last forever. We predict a huge influx of people from all over the world wanting to go there before the unfortunate but inevitable commercialisation begins.
Go there to… • Wander the Museo de la Revolucion in Havana, providing a fascinating introduction to Cuba’s colourful recent history
• Sancti Spiritus is a beautiful colonial city, largely untouched by mass tourism • Take a tour of one of Cuba’s famous cigar factories (Partagas is always a favourite). Even if you don’t smoke, you can’t visit Cuba without visiting a cigar factory • Experience Afro-Cuban dance and musical performances, which are an integral part of Havana nightlife. • Join the sunset crowds for a walk along El Malecon, a 5-mile (8km) in Havana • Spend the day between relaxing on the soft white sand and cooling off in the azure waters in Cayo Largo Del Sur • Take some iconic photographs of ‘Yank Tanks’ (50’s-era American cars) parked in front of faded pastelcoloured buildings in Old Havana (Habana Vieja) • Visit the extensive subterranean world of Gran Caverna de Santo Tomás
BEST OF CUBA 8 DAYS | FROM $2,515 PER PERSON 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 neoclassical 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.
What’s Included
• 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 Terms and conditions: This tour is provided by World Journeys and is subject to their terms and conditions. Prices are correct as at 4 December and are subject to availability and can change without notice. Credit card and booking fees may apply.
For all ENQUIRIES email enquiries@seanstravel.com.au TURBULENCE | ISSUE 11 |2015 | 23
NUmber 4 destination
Japan
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Why you will love it. For most people, the image of Japan is an enigmatic one, with a vague notion of geishas and samurai warriors butting up against buzzing neon arcades and frenetic TV game shows. Japan is a country of cultural contrasts. On the surface, it appears to be westernised, but you quickly realise that the sleek modern culture of Japan is expertly blended with millennia of tradition, evident in the Buddhist and Shinto temples sprinkled throughout the urban centres, intricate social rituals for eating and greeting, and other small reminders of Japan’s long and proud history. Once out of the cities, you can explore a different side of Japan, climbing one of the country’s 200 mountains, soaking in secluded hot springs, visiting ancient shrines and castles,
or attending a sumo match. Whether it’s for skiing in the winter, viewing the cherry blossoms in spring, or enjoying the sunshine of late summer, a holiday in Japan is always a rewarding adventure.
Why we think it will be big next year. Japan was one of the most enquired about destinations of 2015. With the unpredictable snow seasons in Australia and New Zealand over the last few years, many enthusiasts are seeking the more consistent and challenging powder fields of Hokkaido, which are some of the best in the world. Another popular drawcard for Japan is its amazing array of unique cultural events and festivals, such as the Nozawa Fire Festival, which are gaining more attention from Australians with each passing year.
Go there to… • Stroll the spectacular grounds of the Tokyo Imperial Palace • Spot traditionally-dressed geisha in the Kyoto district of Gion • Hike Mount Fuji for stunning panoramic views • See a traditional Kabuki play at the Minamiza Theatre in Kyot • Sing your heart out in a Tokyo karaoke bar • Relax in the hot springs of Noboribetsu on Hokkaido • Follow the 88 Temples Pilgrimage Circuit around Shikoku • Spend a weekend skiing the slopes of Furano in the Japanese Alps
HIGHLIGHTS OF JAPAN 9 DAYS | FROM $5,120 PER PERSON TWIN SHARE
A wonderful introduction to Japan - from the bustle of Tokyo to the majesty of Mt Fuji. Tranquillity abounds in Hakone where you will experience staying in a traditional Japanese Inn (ryokan). In Kyoto explore the historic sites and marvel as you walk through the Sagano bamboo grove. To visit Hiroshima is a moving experience as you view this city that has been rebuilt from ashes into one that is prosperous and vibrant.
What’s Included
• Airport transfers • Private half day tour of Tokyo • Scheduled day tour to Nikko with its magical shrines and scenery • Scheduled tour to Mount Fuji and then continue to Hakone where you
• • • • • • •
will overnight at a ryokan with its own onsen (spa). Bullet train to Kyoto Private half day tour of Kyoto Scheduled tour of Sagano bamboo grove and Arahiyama Bullet train to Hiroshima for a private tour of Hiroshima and Miyajima Bullet train to Osaka 4 star accommodation throughout 8 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner
Terms and conditions: : This tour is provided by World Journeys and is subject to their terms and conditions. Prices are correct as at 4 December and are subject to availability and can change without notice. Credit card and booking fees may apply.
For all ENQUIRIES email enquiries@seanstravel.com.au TURBULENCE | ISSUE 11 |2015 | 25
NUmber 5 destination
SAN FRANCISCO
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Why you will love it. One of the nicest things about visiting San Francisco is that, although the city is “big” in terms of attractions and amenities, it is geographically small. Therefore, it is very easy to see and do a great many things in a short period of time. San Francisco is a unique and breathtaking metropolis. From the famous icon of the Golden Gate Bridge to the exquisite art galleries at SFMOMA, the City takes pride in its unrivalled attractions, renowned museums, and its unique neighbourhoods which are treasures of its own. Discover the variety of sites, shops, and restaurants that reflect the City’s great ethnic and cultural diversity.
Why we think it will be big next year. QANTAS are commencing their nonstop service from Sydney later this month, and we predict many of our travellers will enjoy taking advantage of direct access to the West Coast on our flag carrier. San Francisco is also one of those rare destinations that lives up to the mantra of ‘something for everyone’. While other US cities like Los Angeles and New York may have a narrower appreciative audience, San Fran is so richly diverse and cosmopolitan that it doesn’t matter from how far away you’ve come you’re bound to feel right at home.
Go there to… • Explore San Francisco’s Chinatown, the oldest of its kind in the US. • Play prisoner at the formidable island-fortress of Alcatraz. • Admire panoramic views of the cityscape from Coit Tower. • Visit San Francisco’s most iconic landmark, the Golden Gate Bridge. • Go sightseeing on the famous cable cars, the only moving National Historical Monument in the US. • Enjoy leisurely meals and shopping sprees at Fisherman’s Wharf. • Relish thrills and spills at the Six Flags Discovery Kingdom. • Walk along Lombard Street, ‘the crookedest street in the world’.
SAN FRANCISCO & WINE COUNTRY DELIGHTS 7 DAYS | FROM $3,076 PER PERSON TWIN SHARE
This laid-back journey from San Francisco to Sonoma and Napa explores all the sights and tastes along the way, including the fruits of the worldrenowned wine country. You’ll enjoy Insider moments like savouring Bajastyle fish tacos and handmade chocolate at the San Francisco Ferry Building’s famous farmers’ market, and blending your own wine at a family owned-winery, before enjoying lunch with your hosts.
What’s Included
• Welcome reception at a local restaurant • Visit to Ferry Plaza Farmers Market • Insider experience to Haight-Ashbury – ground zero for the hippie generation • Cable Car Museum visit
• Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory visit • A full day of leisure in San Francisco • Journey on the Napa Valley Wine Train to Sonoma • Visit to an olive press in Sonoma • Enjoy a private blending lab experience at Ravenswood Winery • Cooking class at a famous culinary school • Visit to Oxbow Public Market in downtown Napa • Travel the Silverado Trail • 6 full breakfasts, 1 lunch, 3 dinners Terms and conditions: This tour is provided by Trafalgar and is subject to their terms and conditions. Prices are correct as at 4 December and are subject to availability and can change without notice. Credit card and booking fees may apply.
For all ENQUIRIES email enquiries@seanstravel.com.au TURBULENCE | ISSUE 11 |2015 | 27
HOT FARES HURRY! THESE WONT LAST LONG! SALE FARES TO FIJI VIRGIN AUSTRALIA
AIR FIJI
Valid for travel between 01 JAN 16 - 30 OCTOBER 16. Book By 31 Jan 2016.
Valid for travel between 01 JAN 16 - 30 OCTOBER 16. Book By 31 Jan 2016.
RETURN FARE FROM
BRISBANE
MELBOURNE
SYDNEY
NADI - FIJI
TRAVEL VIA
NADI - FIJI
TRAVEL VIA
$1,166.33
SYDNEY
BRISBANE
$616.26
DIRECT
$1,146.81
MELBOURNE
MELBOURNE
$678.02
DIRECT
$702.26
DIRECT
SYDNEY
$616.26
DIRECT
$982.21
BRISBANE
ADELAIDE
$788.93
SYDNEY
$1,179.21
SYDNEY
DARWIN
$1,072.12
SYDNEY
$776.02
DIRECT
CANBERRA
$766.09
SYDNEY
$716.71
BRISBANE
CAIRNS
$884.19
SYDNEY
$1016.15
MELBOURNE
PERTH
$942.35
SYDNEY
$704.58
DIRECT
HOBART
$851.51
SYDNEY
RETURN FARE FROM
ECONOMY CLASS FARE (INCLUDES FUEL SURCHARGES AND TAXES
ECONOMY CLASS FARE (INCLUDES FUEL SURCHARGES AND TAXES
FARE RULES: CHANGES PERMITTED FOR A FEE OF $80 PER PERSON PER CHANGE, AND MUST BE MADE A MINIMUM OF 24 HOURS BEFORE THE ORGINAL FLIGHT BEING CHANGED. FARE IS NON REFUNDABLE, BUT, CAN BE HELD IN CREDIT UPON PAYMENT OF A FEE OF $80 PER PERSON. NAME CHANGES ARE NOT PERMITTED, TICKET IS NONTRANSFERABLE. PAYMENT BY CREDIT CARD MAY INCUR A SURCHARGE
FARE RULES: CHANGES PERMITTED FOR A FEE OF $80 PER PERSON PER CHANGE, AND MUST BE MADE A MINIMUM OF 24 HOURS BEFORE THE ORGINAL FLIGHT BEING CHANGED. FARE IS NON REFUNDABLE, BUT, CAN BE HELD IN CREDIT UPON PAYMENT OF A FEE OF $80 PER PERSON. NAME CHANGES ARE NOT PERMITTED, TICKET IS NONTRANSFERABLE. PAYMENT BY CREDIT CARD MAY INCUR A SURCHARGE
28 | TURBULENCE | ISSUE 11 | 2015
THAI AIRWAYS PROMO FARES TO EUROPE Valid for travel between 01 DECEMBER 2015 AND 31MARCH 2016. Book By 10 Jan 2016. RETURN FARE FROM
SYDNEY
BRISBANE
PERTH
MELBOURNE
TO
TRAVEL 16 JAN 16 - 31 MAR 16
TRAVEL 24 DEC - 15 JAN 16
TRAVEL 06 - 23 DEC 2016
FRANKFURT
$1,574.18
$1,574.18
$1,903.18
LONDON
$1,682.88
$1,782.88
$1,996.82
MUNICH
$1,553.28
$1,653.28
$1,880.58
PARIS
$1,531.38
$1,631.38
$1,860.08
ZURICH
$1,500.48
$1,600.48
$1,829.68
FRANKFURT
$1,579.26
$1,679.26
$1,936.46
LONDON
$1,687.96
$1,787.96
$2,015.96
MUNICH
$1,558.36
$1,658.36
$1,912.46
PARIS
$1,536.46
$1,636.46
$1,891.96
ZURICH
$1,505.56
$1,605.56
$1,834.76
FRANKFURT
$1,453.90
$1,553.90
$1,784.30
LONDON
$1,562.60
$1,662.60
$1,918.80
MUNICH
$1,433.00
$1,533.00
$1,787.10
PARIS
$1,411.10
$1,511.10
$1,739.80
ZURICH
$1,380.20
$1,480.20
$1,709.40
FRANKFURT
$1,559.62
$1,659.62
$1,888.62
LONDON
$1,668.32
$1,768.32
$1,997.72
MUNICH
$1,538.72
$1,638.72
$1,866.02
PARIS
$1,516.82
$1,616.82
$1,845.52
ZURICH
$1,485.92
$1,585.92
$1,815.12
ECONOMY CLASS FARE (INCLUDES FUEL SURCHARGES AND TAXES FARE RULES: CHANGES PERMITTED FOR A FEE OF $100 PER PERSON PER CHANGE. FARE MAY BE UPGRADED TO A HIGHER FARE FOR TRAVEL LATER IN THE YEAR. FARE IS NON REFUNDABLE AND NON TRANSFERABLE
For all ENQUIRIES email enquiries@seanstravel.com.au TURBULENCE | ISSUE 11 |2015 | 29
LUFTHANSA BUSINESS CLASS SPECIAL TO EUROPE VIA BANGKOK Travel 18 DEC WITH TRAVEL COMPLETED BY 27 MAR 2016. Book By 31 Jan 2016. RETURN FARE FROM
SYDNEY
BRISBANE
PERTH
MELBOURNE
TO
AMSTERDAM BARCELONA LONDON OSLO PARIS VIENNA ZURICH AMSTERDAM BARCELONA LONDON OSLO PARIS VIENNA ZURICH AMSTERDAM BARCELONA LONDON OSLO PARIS VIENNA ZURICH AMSTERDAM BARCELONA LONDON OSLO PARIS VIENNA ZURICH
Canada VIRGIN AUSTRALIA SALE FARES Travel: 14 JAN - 16 JUN 16. 05 JUL - 08 SEPT 16. 04 OCT - 31 OCT 16. Book By 31 Jan 2016. RETURN FARE FROM
BUSINESS FARE $5,457.28 $5,446.28 $5,780.18 $5,382.98 $5,483.98 $5,504.18 $5,461.58 $5,460.96 $5,449.96 $5,783.86 $5,311.26 $5,412.26 $5,507.86 $5,465.26 $5,437.60 $5,426.60 $5,760.50 $5,287.90 $5,388.90 $5,363.70 $5,441.90 $5,398.32 $5,387.32 $5,721.22 $5,294.42 $5,396.82 $5,370.22 $5,403.02
BUSINESS CLASS FARE (INCLUDES FUEL SURCHARGES AND TAXES
SYDNEY
BRISBANE
MELBOURNE
TO
HALIFAX MONTREAL OTTAWA CALGARY VANCOUVER KELOWNA VICTORIA WINNIPEG SASKATOOON TORONTO EDMONTON HALIFAX MONTREAL OTTAWA CALGARY VANCOUVER KELOWNA VICTORIA WINNIPEG SASKATOOON TORONTO EDMONTON HALIFAX MONTREAL OTTAWA CALGARY VANCOUVER KELOWNA VICTORIA WINNIPEG SASKATOOON TORONTO EDMONTON
ECONOMY FARE $1,486.06 $1,486.02 $1,483.16 $1,476.56 $1,465.46 $1,521.76 $1,570.96 $1,483.46 $1,478.06 $1,465.56 $1,476.36 $1,517.01 $1,517.01 $1,479.48 $1,472.88 $1,496.41 $1,552.71 $1,601.91 $1,514.41 $1,509.01 $1,496.51 $1,507.31 $1,482.38 $1,482.38 $1,514.11 $1,507.51 $1,461.78 $1,518.08 $1,567.28 $1,479.78 $1,474.38 $1,461.88 $1,472.68
FARE RULES: CHANGES PERMITTED FOR A FEE OF $250 PER PERSON PER CHANGE. FARE MAY BE UPGRADED TO A HIGHER FARE FOR TRAVEL LATER IN THE YEAR. FARE IS NON REFUNDABLE AND NON TRANSFERABLE
ECONOMY CLASS FARE (INCLUDES FUEL SURCHARGES AND TAXES
For all ENQUIRIES email enquiries@seanstravel.com.au
FARE RULES: FARE IS NON REFUNDABLE. CHANGES PERMITTED, 48 HOURS PRIOR TO ORIGINAL DEPARTURE DATE, FOR A FEE OF $200 PLUS ANY ADDITIONAL AIRFARE INCREASE. FARE IS NON-TRANSFERABLE. NAME CHANGES NOT PERMITTED. VALID ON VIRGIN AUSTRALIA OPERATED FLIGHTS FROM BRISBANE, MELBOURNE AND SYDNEY TO LOS ANGELES, AND ONWARDS WITH RESTRICTED AIRLINES TO DESTINATION.
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R E MP
WI
A H NA
Founded in 2004, Bockers & Pony delivers the most lavish gifts and hampers Australia wide for all occasions. Each gift hamper is curated with high quality products, presented immaculately and delivered Australia wide. Bockers & Pony are famous for their Christmas Hampers, Corporate Gifts and Hampers, Newborn Baby Hampers, Gourmet Hampers and Birthday Gifts. For last minute presents you can collect from them in Burnley if you are a Melbourne dweller, or for any other gifts you may need click here to go to their website. We have teamed up with Bockers & Pony to bring you not one, but two amazing offers.
OFFER ONE – 10% OFF STORE-WIDE For a strictly limited time, get 10% off store wide by entering the code SEANSIMMONS at checkout. This discount code is valid until January 30, 2016.
OFFER TWO – WIN A HAMPER We have a beautiful Bockers & Pony hamper valued at $129 up for grabs. All you have to do is test your knowledge of Bockers & Pony and Sean Simmons Travel.
CHRISTMAS HAMPER 10 This exquisite hamper contains: Moet Chandon Piccolo Brut Imperial NV 200ml Fine Cheese Company Rosemary Biscuits 100g Hope & Greenwood Afternoon Treats 100g Charlie’s Cookies Double Choc Chip Bites 125g Chocolate Fudge 95g Almond Nougat 86g Simon Johnson Milk Florentine Biscuits 70g La Maison d’Armorine Salted Butter Caramels 50g All wrapped in a signature Bockers & Pony wooden gift box.
SIMPLY FILL OUT THE FORM HERE AND CORRECTLY ANSWER THE QUESTIONS AND THE HAMPER COULD BE YOURS! TURBULENCE | ISSUE 11 |2015 | 31
Canada 32 | TURBULENCE | ISSUE 11 | 2015
CANADIAN ROCKIES GETAWAY 9 DAYS/8 NIGHTS ROUNDTRIP VANCOUVER FROM $4961* PP TWIN SHARE • Vancouver • Kamloops • Jasper • Lake Louise • Banff • Kamloops • Vancouver Keep a lookout for a range of wildlife on this spellbinding trip that includes a visit to Yoho National Park, touring by placid lakes that lap at dramatic mountains.
INCLUDES • 4 day Rocky Mountaineer GoldLeaf or SilverLeaf Service • 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches • 8 night’s quality hotel accommodation • Vancouver Lookout • Icefields Parkway Tour, including Ice Explorer, Jasper to Lake Louise • Yoho Park Tour, Lake Louise to Banff • Banff Tour, including Banff Gondola • Rail station transfers in Vancouver, Kamloops, Jasper and Banff • Luggage handling and National Park Pass
ITINERARY Day 1: Vancouver Arrival Arrive in Vancouver and spend time exploring this scenic city on your own. Day 2: Vancouver > Kamloops (Train) Travel onboard the Rocky Mountaineer from the coastal city of Vancouver to Kamloops, in the heart of British Columbia’s interior. On today’s journey you will see dramatic changes in scenery, from the lush green fields of the Fraser Valley, through forests and winding river canyons surrounded by the peaks of the Coast and Cascade Mountains, to the desert-like environment of the BC Interior. Highlights include the rushing waters of Hell’s Gate in the Fraser Canyon and the steep slopes and rock sheds along the Thompson River. Your day concludes as the Rocky Mountaineer travels along the shores of Kamloops Lake into Kamloops. Day 3: Kamloops > Jasper (Train) Your journey continues north and east to the mighty Canadian Rockies and the province of Alberta. Once again you will be surrounded by dramatic scenery as you follow the banks of the North Thompson River through the Monashee and Cariboo Mountains, climbing ever nearer to the high peaks of the Continental Divide. Today’s highlights include Mount Robson, at 3,954 metres (12,972 feet) the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies, Pyramid Falls, and the climb over the Yellowhead Pass into Jasper National Park.Your rail journey ends this evening on arrival in the resort town of Jasper.
Day 4: Jasper > Lake Louise (Coach) Travel to Lake Louise via one of the most scenic highways in the world, the Icefields Parkway. A stop will be made at Athabasca Falls before arriving at the Columbia Icefield. Here you will ride on an Ice Explorer to the middle of the Athabasca Glacier to learn more about its geological features. Your driver/guide will explain how glaciers are formed and point out some interesting geological features. Time will be available for lunch (not included). Afterwards, a brief stop will be made at Bow Lake before arriving in Lake Louise this afternoon. Day 5: Lake Louise > Banff (Coach) This morning you are free to explore beautiful Lake Louise on your own. After lunch, a half-day tour takes you into Yoho National Park to view some of its natural wonders. Among the attractions are the Spiral Tunnels, Emerald Lake and a natural rock bridge that spans the Kicking Horse River. At the end of the tour you will be transferred to Banff. Day 6: Banff Sightseeing This morning you are free to explore scenic Banff on your own. After lunch, enjoy a halfday sightseeing tour of Banff and Banff National Park. Among the highlights are visits to Bow Falls, the Banff Gondola (admission included), Lake Minnewanka, Surprise Corner and the Hoodoos. Day 7: Banff > Kamloops (Train) Travel onboard the Rocky Mountaineer from the mountain town of Banff to Kamloops, in the heart of the British Columbia Interior. Your journey takes you through a spectacular array of scenery as you travel between the glacier and snow-capped peaks of the Canadian Rockies, over mountain passes and through remarkable tunnels, along rocky lakeshores and across the ranchlands of the Interior. Today’s highlights include the Continental Divide, the Spiral Tunnels, Kicking Horse Canyon, Rogers Pass and Craigellachie, where the last spike of the Canadian Pacific Railway was driven. Day 8: Kamloops > Vancouver (Train) Your journey continues west towards the Pacific Ocean and the coastal city of Vancouver. On today’s journey you will again see dramatic changes in scenery, from the desert-like environment of the Interior, through winding river canyons and pristine forests, to the Coast and Cascade Mountains and the lush green fields of the Fraser Valley. Highlights include the steep slopes and rock sheds along the Thompson River and the rushing waters of Hell’s Gate in the Fraser Canyon. Your rail journey ends on arrival in Vancouver this evening. Day 9: Vancouver Departure Your vacation ends upon checkout from your Vancouver hotel.
For all ENQUIRIES email enquiries@seanstravel.com.au TURBULENCE | ISSUE 11 |2015 | 33
Canada
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LAKES & LODGES 11 DAYS/10 NIGHTS VANCOUVER TO CALGARY FROM $2,369* PP TWIN SHARE A self-drive itinerary from Vancouver to Calgary including stops at some beautiful lakeside lodges.
INCLUDES • 10 nights accommodation in Superior hotels including provincial taxes • Admission to either Banff Upper Hot Springs or Miette Hot Springs, Jasper • Ice Explorer ride onto the Athabasca Glacier • Sulphur Mountain Gondola • 3 Breakfasts, 2 Dinners • Exclusive travel documentation including personalised maps, itinerary and driving directions • Car Rental** Includes • Unlimited kilometres • GPS • LDW (Loss Damage Waiver) (This may exclude a non-waivable amount for damage) • CAD $1 Million Third Party Liability Insurance Coverage • One (1) Additional Driver • PST (Canadian Provincial Sales Tax) • GST (Canadian Goods and Service Tax) • HST (Canadian Harmonized Sales Tax) • Airport contract fees
ITINERARY Day 1: Vancouver > Gold Bridge This morning depart Vancouver along the scenic Sea to Sky Highway to Whistler. Highlights along the way include the cascading Shannon Falls and the Stawamus Chief Rock where climbers from all over the globe migrate to climb the granite cliffs. Continue onto Whistler where a stop is a must for a short stroll through this charming alpine resort before continuing on the Duffey Lake Road where you will see breathtaking views of Joffee Glacier. Continue on through Lillooet for 2 hours along a well maintained gravel road to Tyax Mountian Lake Resort. Day 2: Tyax Mountain Resort Tyax offers a wide array of optional activities for all ages including western horseback riding, guided fly fishing tours, fly casting and gold panning lessons, mountain biking on gentle rolling or challenging single track, floatplane adventures over the Chilcotin Wilderness and drop off’s at remote alpine lakes; as well as ATV safaris along old mining trails leading to the wildflower carpeted alpine meadows. Day 3: Gold Bridge > Lac Le Jeune Return through Lillooet known as the land of the Gold Rush Trail and was ‘Mile Zero’ of the Old Caribou Wagon Road during the Gold Rush Years. Departing Lillooet, turn east along Highway 99 toward Cache Creek, from here travel a short distance to your overnight accommodation at Lac Le Jeune Resort. Located in a stunning wilderness setting wher fish jump from the glassy surface of the alke and ospreys soar overhead. Please note this rustic lodge offers peace and relaxation without having phones or a television in the room.
Optional Add-On (additional cost): Sundance Guest Ranch 3 Days/2 Nights Located in British Columbia’s high country with magnificent scenery and clear fresh air - a genuine bit of the ‘Old West’. A vast choice of horses are available from chestnuts, sorrels, bays, pintos and appaloosas - everything from gentle trail horses to lively, frisky mounts, all with good Western gear. Sundance Lodge includes: All meals from dinner on the day of arrival to breakfast on the morning of departure, horseback riding and use of the ranch facilities. Day 4: Lac Le Jeune > Jasper Today, follow the Thompson River through rolling plateaus to the snowy peaks of the Monashee Mountains. View Pyramid Falls and thee expansive glaciers of teh Albreda Icefields. Pass by Mount Robson, which is the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies at 3954 metres; then onto the resort town of Jasper, for a 2 night stay at the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge. Set deep in the Canadian Rockies, Jasper Park Lodge embodies the peace, tranquility and natural beauty that make these parks so famous. Day 5: Jasper Today, explore this charming mountain village close to many terrific scenic highlights. Take a tram ride up Whistler Mountain or a boat cruise on Maligne Lkae. In the evening soak in the pools at Miette Hog Springs and watch the sunset over Pyramid and Patricia Lakes. Optional add-on (additional cost): Jasper Rafting (Duration 2 1/2 hours) Enjoy a gentle rafting tour on the Athabasca River for a unique perspective of Jasper National Park. The 16 kilometre, 2 1/2 hour round trip passes through many small sets of rapids and calm stretches, which allows your National Park Licenced guide to point out the natural and human history of Jasper. Specially designed rafts offer a safe, comfortable ride than any first time rafter will enjoy. This trip is for everyone from toddlers to seniors. Day 6: Jasper > Moraine Lake This morning depart on the scenic drive that takes you through the spine of the Canadian Rockies. You view a never-ending procession of mammoth mountains, jagged peaks, over 100 glaciers and pristine emerald colour lakes. Along the way see such sights as the Columbia Icefield and take an Ice Explorer ride out onto the glacier (included). Also watch for the Sarbach Glacier, Peyto Lake, Bow Lake with the Bow Glacier providing the backdrop, and Crowfood Glacier before your arrival at Moraine Lake Lodge. Moraine Lake Lodge is situated on the shore of Moraine Lake, known for its turquoise colour. (Continued next page)
For all ENQUIRIES email enquiries@seanstravel.com.au TURBULENCE | ISSUE 11 |2015 | 35
Canada
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Day 7: Moraine Lake > Emerald Lake A short drive today through majestic mountain passes into Yoho National Park. The word Yoho is the Cree word expressing awe. This 1313 sq.km national park is filled with gem coloured glacial lakes and waterfalls, snow-covered peaks and sense forests of western red cedar and western helock. Other Yoho marvels include a natural rock bridge over the Kicking Horse River, Hoodoos, some of Canada’s highest waterfalls and the Burgess Shale fossil find where over 120 marine animal species dating back as far as 530 million years were discovered. (Dinner included). Day 8: Emerald Lake Lodge Built of hand-hewn timber and featuring massive stone fireplaces, the Lodge includes a formal dinign room, quiet reading and sitting rooms. From the upper or lower large verandah’s, enjoy the serene views of this wilderness landscape. (Breakfast & Dinner included). Day 9: Emerald Lake > Banff Enjoy the leisurely drive to Banff. Choose the Bow Valley Parkway, beside the Bow River, with an option for you to take a stop at Johnston Canyon and walk along the paved footpath to either the lower or upper waterfalls before continuing to Banff. This afternoon explore Banff and the surrounding area. In town you will find lots of shopping, cafe’s, nightlife and museums. Day 10: Banff A full day to explore Banff and area. Check out the Cave and Basin National Historic Site, Banff Gondola (included) where you will see a panoramic view of the Bow Valley, and then take a dip in the hot mineral pools at the Upper Hot Springs. Day 11: Banff > Calgary Drive to Calgary today, along the 1A Highway. Enroute, you may wish to stop at the historic Cochrane Ranch (not included) before dropping off your rental car at Calgary Airport or downtown. **Please note • Vehicles are not allowed on any unmaintained gravel roads • All vehicles are 100% Non-smoking. Penalty is CAD 250.00 plus taxes • Specific car models are not guaranteed. Not Included • PAI Plus (Personal Accident Insurance Plus) • PEP (Personal Effects Protection) • Optional services such as refuelling service charges • One way drop off fees • Additional driver’s fee • Child seat (mandatory for children 12 years and younger - these need to requested at time of booking) • Ski racks • Petrol TERMS & CONDITIONS FOR ALL CANADA TOURS All Canada tours offered in this edition are operated by World Journeys and are subject to their terms and conditions. Prices are correct as at 14 December and can change without notice. Deposits and cancellation penalties may apply. The price of the ‘Canadian Rockies Getaway’ is based on the rate of exchange as at 14 December and may change without notice due to currency fluctuations. Credit card and booking fees may apply. For more information, please contact Sean Simmons Travel. A non-refundable deposit is required within 7 days of receiving your Option. If the deposit is not received by this time we reserve the right to cancel all arrangements without notification. Some tours and cruises require higher deposits and details of such will be advised at time of reservation. Receipt of deposit will be taken as an understanding by us that you have checked your confirmed arrangements and have read and agree to abide by the terms and conditions set forth in the brochure. Final payment is due 90 days before departure or by the payment deadline stated on the final invoice whichever is the earliest. If the final payment is not received by the company by the due date we reserve the right to cancel all arrangements without notification. Bookings made within 45 days of departure will only be processed if we hold full payment. We do not accept bookings for travel within 5 days of departure. Any cancellations must be received in writing and will be assessed based on the date received in our office. Cancellation fees are levied as follows: More than 90 days before departure – loss of deposit. From 90-61 days before departure – 50%. Less than 60 days before departure – 100%
CALGARY STAMPEDE 4 DAYS/3 NIGHTS CALGARY FROM $877* PP TWIN SHARE For 10 exhilarating days every July, it’s a citywide celebration of true western hospitality and rousing fun! The high steppin’ two hour Stampede Parade kicks off to the streets with a burst of energy, colour and music. Every afternoon the best cowboys and cowgirls saddle up for ground shaking Rodeo action. And every evening, nine heart-stopping Chuckwagon Races thunder around the track in an all-out dash to the finish line. The evening ends with the Grandstand Stage Show - 90 minutes of nonstop musical entertainment building up to a fantastic Fireworks finale!
INCLUDES • 3 nights in your selected category of accommodation • 2 days admission to Stampede Park • Reserved seating for one evening at the Chuckwagon Races & Grandstand Show • Reserved seating for one afternoon’s Rodeo event • Stampede events programme • Skyride over Stampede Park • Stampede souvenir Golf Shirt
Need airfares to canada? See PAge 30 for sale fares.
For all ENQUIRIES email enquiries@seanstravel.com.au TURBULENCE | ISSUE 11 |2015 | 37
Canada Famous for its charming village and West Coast friendliness, Whistler is considered the premier mountain destination in North America.
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SKI WHISTLER BLACKCOMB Rising up one vertical mile from the valley are Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains. The two mountains offer more than 8000 skiable acres running the gamut from gentle cruisers to steep bowls. Most of guests choose to ski either Whistler or Blackcomb Mountain each day but the new PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola spans the distance between both mountains in a journey of just eleven minutes! This allows skiers and riders to maximize their day by moving quickly and effortlessly across the valley to the best snow and weather in each alpine area. Nestled at the base of the mountain is the pedestrian only village, which is alive with colourful shops, cosy restaurants and apres ski fun, Whistler-style! No other resort offers so much choice and it’s no wonder Whistler is consistently ranked #1 by the worldwide snow sports media, including the most recent #1 Overall Resort ranking from SKI Magazine. Whistler Blackcomb was the Official Alpine Skiing Venue of the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. Whistler offers a wonderful array of accommodation options, from luxurious mountain chalets to economical hotels. Just a few featured here but if you are looking for something diferent, don’t hesitate to contact your Sean Simmons Travel Expert to discuss options.
CRYSTAL LODGE
FROM $1556*PP TWIN SHARE • DISCOUNTED ACCOMMODATION + LIFT PASSES • 7 nights twin share in Traditional Hotel Room at Crystal Lodge • 6 day Ski Pass *Conditions apply. Valid for travel 2 - 30 January 2016. Prices are subject to change and availability. Book and Pay by 30 December 2015.
FAIRMONT CHATEAU WHISTLER
FROM $2137*PP TWIN SHARE • EARLYBIRD BONUS! 30% OFF ACCOMMODATION + DISCOUNTED LIFT PASSES^ • 7 nights twin share in a Fairmont Room at Fairmont Chateau Whistler • 6 day Ski Pass *Conditions apply. Valid for travel 4 January - 11 February 2016. Prices are subject to change and availability. Book & Pay by 29 January 2016. ^Included in package price.
LEGENDS
FROM $1358*PP QUAD SHARE • EARLYBIRD BONUS! 20% OFF ACCOMMODATION + DISCOUNTED LIFT PASS! • 7 nights quad share in a Two Bedroom Apartment at The Legends • 6 day Ski Pass *Conditions apply. Valid for travel 4 - 28 January 2016. Prices are subject to change and availability. Book & Pay by 29 December 2016.
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SEAN’s
TRAVEL TIPS We have a lot of tips for keeping our person and our luggage safe when we are travelling, but what do you do about everything that you couldn’t fit into your suitcase? As the holidays approach and our experts are noticing a trend towards longer vacations, we wanted to impart some ways in which you can make sure everything will be there when you get back – and how you can continue to enjoy your vacation in the event something does go wrong.
Security Checks Before you leave, make sure you do a final check of all the doors, windows, and alarm systems, including the smoke detectors. Don’t leave a window of opportunity (pun intended) available for any would be thieves – or animals. A family of possums that has taken up residence can cause just as much damage as a burglar.
Emergency Contact Nominate a reliable and trusted friend or family member to be your emergency contact and leave their details with a neighbour. Let the neighbour know that if your alarm does go off, anything appears out of the ordinary or they spot any damage to your property, your emergency contact is 40 | TURBULENCE | ISSUE 11 | 2015
called. This might be in case of robbery, fire or extreme weather damage such as hail or fallen trees.
Insurance Authorise your emergency contact to deal with your home insurance provider in the event of loss or damage to property. This means you don’t have to panic and drop everything to come home right away and you still have hands on the ground at home to handle the administrative details. If something does happen, your house could be ship shape by the time you get back!
Social media Make sure that you restrict who gets to view your social media posts. Letting friends know you are going to Europe for two months is cool. Letting a thief know your house is going to be ripe for the picking – not so much. Recently had a rocky breakup but they are still Facebook ‘friends’? Definitely don’t tempt fate by rubbing your extended vacation in their face.
Mail If you are going away for a couple of months, consider getting your mail redirected or a PO Box. If it’s just a few weeks, ask a neighbour or friend to collect it for you. Mail piling up is an indicator that nobody is home and could put your home at risk.
Timers Nothing says ‘nothing to see here’ like the lights going on and off at around your regular time. You can also get timers If you want to get really creative, think about that scene in Home Alone when Kevin convinces Larry and Merv that the whole family is home.
20-something party people would make the ideal candidate. They’ll jump at the chance for the peace and quiet and won’t mind the housework or other tasks that come with the deal. Take care, and make sure you stay safe this holiday season. If you do need to come home in a hurry, don’t forget that we have a 24 / 7 emergency assistance line that is operated by our team, not a call centre. To reach us out of hours, simply ring 1300 391 590 and select option 2 to be put through to our team member on call.
Get a House Sitter If all the above seems like too much work, offer a friend or family member a minibreak of their own and organise a house sitter. This works especially well if you have pets, or have a high maintenance house with large gardens that needs regular attention. That one person who is (seriously) studying but lives in an apartment with TURBULENCE | ISSUE 11 |2015 | 41
KEEP CALM AND CARRY ON 42 | TURBULENCE | ISSUE 11 | 2015
here our top five hand-luggage essentials. Ignoring the obvious contenders – wallet, keys, passport, tablet, and a good book or e-Reader 1. Notebook & Pen
4. USB Stick
Video may have killed the radio star, but nothing will ever knock down this dynamic duo. Don’t be afraid of analogue technology. Keep a notebook and a pen handy with a few essential phone numbers and other information easily accessible. If your find yourself in an emergency and your phone has run out of battery, that notebook could just save your life.
Moving from analogue to digital, carry a USB flash drive in your carry-on with copies of important documents, itineraries and other information, even if you travel with your laptop. For the same reason as a notebook comes in handy, if your computer runs out of battery or becomes faulty, your essential data is still easily retrieved. It is also handy for backing up your photos to instead of using your computer.
It is also very handy for quickly jotting down thoughts, things to remember, email addresses of new friends or even sketching.
Just remember to encrypt any documents that contain sensitive information.
2. Foldable Drink Bottle
5. Moisturiser
A neat innovation, these little beauties hold almost half a litre of water when full but roll up to take up literally zero space in your hand luggage. Plus, they are flexible, so they can fit under taps you might not always be able to fit a hard bottle under. Great for longer flights.
When dealing with recycled airplane air, your skin might dry out and your lips can crack, so we highly recommend keeping a small tube of rehydrating salve handy, especially for those longer flights. Look for a universal moisturiser with little or no fragrance and natural ingredients.
You can get them online or from many camping supply stores like Kathmandu.
Also, never go anywhere without some Lucas’ Pawpaw Ointment – great for cracked lips.
3. Noise Cancelling Headphones If you’re anything like us, you’ll like to drift away into your own little world and forget you’re 30’000 feet in the air surrounded by strangers. There is nothing better than noise cancelling headphones to drown out the chatty person behind and the screaming baby three rows over.
What do you always have in your carry on? Let us know by email or tweet us @seanstravel
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Antler Luggage
winners announced BEST Overall
BEST STORY
Congratulations to Meg in Mansfield, QLD, who won our major prize draw. She has landed a set of Antler Cyberlite suitcases!
It was a hard competition for our judges, but we eventually found the winner in our best story category.
Congratulations, Meg, Your suitcases are on the way!
Congratulations to David Brown, winning a $100 Sean Simmons Travel Voucher who regaled us with this tale of pandemonium in London:
I was holidaying at Kariba Lake A tranquil paradise, just the perfect break. That night when I fell asleep 3 masked robbers they did creep They stole my money and stole my clothes They stole my phone right under my nose I woke up to my mother screaming I knew something bad happened and I wasn’t dreaming. All I had left were the clothes on my back My suitcase was used for their getaway sack!
BEST PICTURE There was some amazing pictures sent through, but in a competition like this, there can be only one. Congratulations to Andrew B, who won hearts in the office with this photo featured on the next page and scored a $100 international travel voucher!
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“Christmas 2008 at Heathrow airport, London. Thick snow came down and flights were grounded. 30,000 passengers waited for hours until we were told that the weather forecast was not getting better and flights may be grounded for days. We were told to collect our luggage at the carousels. Well someone did not think this plan through as imagine the chaos as 30,000 people tried to get into the carousel area. Security couldn’t cope and the bags kept coming until they were in large piles 4-5 meters high with people all over it going crazy. It was pandemonium. Until suddenly the Police arrived on mass with their rather large machine guns. Order was restored and we were all sent away. It took 2 days to sort all of the luggage so we could get it back. Not a great 2 days in the Holiday Inn wearing the same underpants! Fond memories!”
Andrew B - Voucher Winner TURBULENCE | ISSUE 11 |2015 | 45
Italy Aby Christene reader’s view Cole, Senior Traveller Following is some tips and reviews by Christene Cole from her recent trip to Italy. She shares some useful tips for the senior traveller (Editors note - This is one person’s experience, not Seans Simmons Travel’s Views or recommendations
Hello Kat, I thought some feedback about my trip would be useful to other people travelling to Italy. First of all, thank you for all the hard work. If you love hot weather, August is a good time to travel to Italy, as the temperature was mostly in the mid-thirties. Lucky for me, all the places I stayed in had good airconditioning. Cathay Pacific Business Class seats were comfortable for sleeping and sitting with my legs raised. There was an excellent choice of in-flight entertainment on the fold-out screen and meals were tasty. It pays to have a special meal as you get served first, so when I had finished and everyone else was eating, the trolleys were out of the aisle. It was a good time to take a walk if I wanted. 46 | TURBULENCE | ISSUE 11 | 2015
The airport lounges in Hong Kong and Rome were good to sit and relax, read, or use the computers or wifi. A good selection of snacks and drinks were available. Hong Kong Sky City Marriott Hotel is only five minutes from the airport and they provide a free shuttle. I just wanted to shower and sleep so good for me. Empire Palace Hotel in Rome was very nice. Staff were friendly and helpful, and most understood some English. Reception staff spoke good English at all the hotels I stayed in. The hotel is only a short cab ride from Roma Termini Railway Station, and in cooler weather would be walkable. Their buffet breakfast is splendid.
Trains Learned it is important to look for the train ticket number as well as the departure time when looking at the sign boards. (Eg ‘Frecciabianca 9772). Roma Termini has around 28 platforms with trains arriving and departing, so the signs are clicking over all the time. Also, the platform number for my
trains only were shown about 5 - 10 minutes before the train left, so it is a good idea to wait with the other obvious tourists in front of the notice boards and then go to the platform number shown. Even if the train comes in on the platform next to it, at least, you are close, not about a kilometre away! Even though I was at Roma Termini in time, I missed my first class train to Civitavecchia. I had been warned not to accept ‘help’ from random people at railway stations and airports so went to uniformed airport staff to ask where my train would be. Initially misdirected, I got sent way past the platform, but even though I ended up on a slower train, it worked out OK. Several people in my carriage were on the same cruise as me. Another lesson was that a uniformed person may not always give correct information. First class trains are easy to get on board. Just walk across from the platform to the train, but the slower trains are about a metre up from the platform and it’s hard to lift and lower heavy suitcases, as well as getting an older body up and down.
Fortunately, for me, the men going on the cruise lugged my bags up and down the train, and in and out of the shuttles to the ship.
Cruises I enjoyed both my MSC cruises and would recommend them to anyone. While they readied our cabins, there was a long line of people who wanted to change their cabin without even seeing them. I am not sure if they were hoping for an upgrade, but I do not think their chances were good as the ship seemed to be full. I was so glad we booked a balcony cabin at the outset. Personally, I was not a fan of the buffet (too crowded unless the ship was in a port), but there are plenty of places to sample different cuisines. I was very happy with my allocated table and the menu for the evening meal and mostly went to a restaurant for breakfast and lunch. TURBULENCE | ISSUE 11 |2015 | 47
My cabin and the ship were clean; there were different ports every day, and plenty of organised excursions, as well as the option for passengers to do their own thing. There can be some confusion when boarding and disembarking ships at Civitavecchia and Venice; understandable when thousands of passengers are leaving the ship after breakfast and again when thousands attempt to board after midday.
Venice My train ticket was to Mestre on the mainland, but as the train was going to Santa Lucia that was the most convenient for me, I went there.
I suggest getting to the port earlier than your listed time to embark. Even though you still have to wait to get to your cabin, and to see your luggage again, at least, you are on the air-conditioned ship. You have the option to get a meal or drinks, instead of being queued up in the sun awaiting processing. Also, if you can organise earlier disembarkation, it is easier to get on shuttles. MSC Cruises took on passengers at most of the ports and people left as the ships go round and round so it could pay to consider boarding at other ports and avoid crowds. I would travel MSC again. 48 | TURBULENCE | ISSUE 11 | 2015
Casa Martini was not very far from the station and I found it quite easily. There was only one bridge to cross. The stairs to the first-floor Reception were difficult as I hurt my knee on the first cruise. Buffet breakfast
Sicily I arrived back at Catania airport about two hours early so I found the Vueling desks so I knew where to go when boarding started. At that end of the airport, there was no seating except in a room for people in wheelchairs or a small kiosk. I had bumped my foot leaving my hotel in Ortigia, Syracuse, and had another big bruise on my rapidly swelling foot, so sat in the wheelchair room until I saw people lining up in front of the three Vueling desks. was served another flight up. Other than that the rooms were clean, the air conditioning great, and it was almost silent because there was no motor traffic. It was also easy to get the Vaporetto (water taxi) to the airport on the canal just around the corner. However, leave earlier than you think you need to - because spaces fill up fast, and it is a long walk from the airport Vaporetto stop to the departure gates. Volotea Airlines to Catania was ok, but the return trip by Vueling was a nightmare.
After boarding time, the lines were not moving and Italian-speaking people near the head of the lines were agitated. An English-speaking staff member eventually walked down saying there was a ‘technical’ problem with the flight and they were 55 seats fewer than normal. Only people with a pre-booked seat would have a chance of getting on board. My eTicket did not show a seat number so I was told to wait in another line with all the other people who did not book on-line, which included quite a few Australians. Knowing I needed to be back in Rome early so I could get my flight home, I tried looking TURBULENCE | ISSUE 11 |2015 | 49
I had explained I had an early flight the next day, and showed her my injured foot, so she said she would ask her supervisor then came back and said she would give me a boarding pass with no seat number and if there was a no show, I might get on board. FORTUNATELY, when she put my details in the booking system, it turned out you had booked my seat so I was on the flight that left over an hour late. for other options but there were long lines at the Alitalia and Ryan Air counters. I went up to one of the counters and asked the woman there what she could suggest I do. She told me ‘no more planes would be leaving Catania that day, and probably not even the next! I saw baggage going past behind her from the other airlines and asked if they could get me on another flight, but she just repeated ‘no airline’ would be leaving. She then suggested the only option was to catch a ten-hour combined bus and ferry journey, but in that heat I could not face it.
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Once on the plane, there were whole rows of seats blocked off all the way through. It did get me back to Rome without more problems, but I would never fly with them again. In Syracuse, I stayed in a great hotel. Domus Mariae Benessere in Ortigia was excellent. I contacted the hotel by email to organise taxi pick up from and to Catania airport. There is a bus to Syracuse and a smaller bus to Ortigia, but I wanted the certainty of air conditioning. I had an amazing time. Thank you.
Missed out on the apps we have featured throughout the year? Here are some of the best of 2015. AWARD WALLET
Keep all your loyalty reward points organised with Award Wallet. Not only does it accommodate frequent flyer and hotel rewards, it can also manage your Flybuys and other reward programs.
BEEN
Show your friends how travelled you are with Been. Enter the countries you have visited and it translates the countries in to a percentage. Share your map across practically every social network imaginable.
HAYSTACK
the best of 2015
Never be caught without a business card again with Haystack. Send and receive digital business cards which include links to company Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn pages, and photograph business cards so that your important business contacts are stored where they should be – in your phone!
DUO LINGO
Duolingo is one of the best free language apps on the market, and is even used in schools in the USA. Learn French, Italian, German, Dutch and more. It uses complex learning algorithms to determine your strengths and develops a smart learning plan for writing, reading and speaking based on your progression. The best new feature? As you progress through the language course, you can add a fluency certificate to your LinkedIn profile!
MILE HI
Mile Hi is the social network of the sky. Connect with people on your flight or heading to your destination. Get the edge on business networking, meet other travelling families, swap travel tips and expand your social circle.
MAPS.ME
Detailed maps of the world that are available offline (so no getting lost in those low service areas). Plus, find your way even more easily with the latest update – a voice direction system using the inbuilt text to speech function of your device! Make sure you are subscribed as every month we bring you the latest, coolest or just downright quirky apps on the market.
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AT CROWN MELBOURNE - DON’T MISS OUT Dinner takes inspiration from historic British recipes – from 14th century cookbooks such as those by the royal chefs of King Richard II to Lewis Carroll’s flights of fancy. Decorated in dark wood, brown leather and burnished copper, Dinner Melbourne is a place that fuses ancient and modern, classic and contemporary, for a unique dining experience. A kinetic art installation, an interpretation of the first automated spit roast mechanism, invented by the British clockmakers of Greenwich, takes position at the heart of the open kitchen. The same spirit inspires the kitchen, in which state-of-the-art technology sits alongside the slowly turning cogs of the pulley-operated spit roast. Inspired by 15th century manuscripts, to the fanciful dramatic dishes of the Royal courts of King Henry the VIII, Dinner by Heston Blumenthal offers diners a very modern interpretation of historic British gastronomy. What started as an exercise in curiosity by Heston Blumenthal, has resulted in almost 20 years of research and discovery. Alongside Ashley Palmer-Watts, the two chefs created a menu inspired by the tastes and flavours of Britain, from the farmer’s plate to the royal courts, offering a contemporary gastronomic insight from medieval c.1300 to Victorian c.1800.
CHEFS TABLE AND PRIVATE DINING OPTIONS A sumptuous caramel-leather banquette for 6 set in Dinner’s state-of-the-art kitchen beneath illustrator and artist, Dave McKean’s original historical mural, the Chef’s Table puts you right at the heart of things. You’ll be personally served a tasting menu created by Ashley Palmer-Watts and his team, based on dishes from the à la carte, and accompanied if you wish by wines specially selected to suit each course. And when new dishes are developed, you’ll have the opportunity to try them before they make their way onto the main menu. The Chef’s Table is where you get an intimate experience of exactly what’s happening in the kitchen and why. With a personal explanation by the head chef guests can enjoy direct contact with not only the head chef but their own personal sommelier. If you wish to view the Chef’s Table or need any further information or assistance, please contact the Events Manager via phone: +613 9292 5568 or via email, who will endeavour to arrange an evening that perfectly suits your tastes.
Reservations are now open until 31st March 2016.
Make a weekend of it and stay At The Crown To book, please send your email enquiry to: info@seanstravel.com.au Or Call us on 03 9429 3294
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Book smart & travel safe By Booking with an industry accredited ATAS travel agent Aussies love to travel but are we booking smart and travelling safe? Every year more than 9.7 million Aussies pack their bags and head overseas. Whether for business or pleasure and regardless of where you are travelling and for how long, there are several “dos” and “don’ts” to ensure your trip is as smooth, safe and hassle free as possible.
DON’T CARRY OR CONSUME ILLEGAL DRUGS OVERSEAS. EVER. Did you known that there were 371 Australian’s in prison and 16% of those were a result of drugrelated offences. What you can do: If you need to carry medication into another destination, make sure they remain in their original packaging and are accompanied by a prescription from your doctor.
Are you looking after your mental health? Your Mental Health is just as important whilst travelling as it is at home. So whilst travelling overseas is usually a positive experience, there can be stressors as well. There are a number of strategies known to improve mental health and it is important to keep them up whilst travelling. including; 54 | TURBULENCE | ISSUE 11 | 2015
• Keep regular sleep patterns • Get regular physical activity • Reduce alcohol use and avoid illicit drugs • Keep contacts with your key social supports • Be aware of the signs and symptoms of mental health problems developing in either yourself or gravelling companions • Seek support early when you notice symptoms • If you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel. Last year alone there were 1,453 Australian’s hospitalised overseas, 1,282 deaths and 61 travellers repatriated back home. Travel insurance is all about protecting you against the unexpected. The cost of requiring medical assistance overseas far exceeds the small cost of travel insurance. Of course, by booking with a travel expert like Sean Simmons Travel, you will receive sound advice on travelling wise and the range of travel insurance products available on the market. Here are some very convincing reasons to buy travel insurance and save BIG if things go awry whilst travelling; • Your flight has been cancelled or delayed
• Your passport or wallet has been stolen • You need to cancel your trip due to illness • You have a medical emergency in a foreign country • The airline looses your bag • Travel delays due to weather • Family emergency back home • Overseas funeral expenses • Hijacking or terrorist attack • Your peace of mind! • Register with Smartraveller Another way to safe guard yourself is to register your trip with Smartraveller. This makes it easier for your travel agent and /or the Australian Government to contact you in the event of an emergency, whether it’s a natural disaster, civil disturbance or family issue. Did you know, in 2014- 15 there were 15, 824 total cases which required Government assistance and 8, 171 emergency passport incidences! Stay smart whilst you’re travelling. Registering with Smartraveller is as simple as jumping online and following the prompts HERE
Is your agent an accredited ATAS travel agent? When planning an overseas holiday make sure that you book through an expert industry accredited travel planner like Sean Simmons. Only ATAS accredited travel agents have been weighted and measured against strict financial and customer service criteria. They are the best in the business and are there to assist you plan, prepare and book to ensure that you get the most out of your overseas holiday. In addition to peace of mind that comes with booking through a reputable, trusted travel agent, they are trained product and destination experts. They live and breathe travel every single day and have an excellent network of travel suppliers to tailor make a holiday especially for you; your budget, your likes and your travel desires! Sean Simmons is ATAS travel accredited. ATAS accredited agents are trusted, reliable and trained travel professionals. Booking with an ATAS accredited agent means you’re in safe hands and can travel with confidence.
#myseanstravel #myseanstravel – because it’s all about you. When we hear about your travels, it keeps us inspired. Like this wonderful note we received from Jen, who went up to Palm Cove to chill for a couple of days. They stayed at the Pullman Palm Cove Sea Temple Spa & Resort, and had this to say about their idyllic getaway. Hi Kat, Hope this finds you well I just wanted to pass on my thanks for all your help in enabling us to have our 3 night getaway in FNQ! The hotel was our little piece of paradise. We had a great time and the accommodation was lovely – comfy beds, close enough to the township and far enough away to hear nothing. The staff were also super friendly and helpful. This little sanctuary relieved our stress and boosted our tans all at the same time! While the resort has its own facilities, we chose to stroll in to town and soak up the sights and smells there. We managed to check out the market on Sunday, and the fresh fruit and muesli at the Chilli Café in town was the best! Highly recommended. Just to let you know – it might be a good tip for your clients to call ahead. We did, and got a room with a great view that was ready for us when we arrived two hours ahead of the usual check in time. Keep that in your pocket for next time. Thanks again for helping organise our first holiday together and Wayne’s first vacation in four years. You’re the best and I recommend you and Sean Simmons Travel to everyone! Cheers! Jen & Wayne Thanks for sharing, Jen. It gives us great satisfaction to know that we have managed to make your short stay meaningful - and the photos are great! If you’d like to get our attention, either email us or follow us on social media. Don’t forget to add the #myseanstravel hashtag to all your holiday snaps!
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FLIGHT DECK
Travel information & Industry News VIRGIN AUSTRALIA SHOWS OFF NEW HOME AT PERTH AIRPORT Virgin Australia has opened the doors to its new $300 million home at Perth Airport. While passengers will have to wait until November 22 to experience the new Terminal 1 Domestic Pier, Virgin chief executive John Borghetti and Perth Airport chief executive Brad Geatches gave media a tour of the new facilities on Friday morning. Virgin is moving its domestic interstate flights from Terminal 3, on the western side of the airfield, to a newly built Domestic Pier at Terminal 1, located on the eastern side. This will bring Virgin’s intra-WA, interstate and international services together for the first time, helping improve connection times for passengers and making it easier to transfer cargo from domestic to international flights and vice versa. Borghetti says the stunning new terminal puts Virgin in a leading position in Perth, one of the airline’s most important markets with about 560 flights a week and has experienced significant growth in recent times. Virgin had one million more seats in WA in 2015 compared with 2010.
SITA president for Asia Pacific Ilya Gutlin said the “world-first hybrid check-in and bag drop service” offered customers flexibility and choice. “It puts customers in control of their own airport experience based on their needs, and therefore offers them a more personalised journey, from the moment they step into the terminal,” Gutlin said in a statement. Once airside, the terminal has 12 departure gates including three dedicated to widebody aircraft. There is also an airside link between the T1 Domestic Pier and Terminal 2, where Virgin Australia Regional Airlines and Virgin’s wholly-owned low-cost subsidiary Tigerair Australia operate from. Borghetti said minimum connection times from regional to interstate flights, or from domestic to international, would be cut from up to one and three quarter hours to one hour once the new terminal was operational. Virgin has also built a new 1,711 square metre lounge – twice the size of the airline’s existing facility at Terminal 3, which has the capacity to handle 400 guests. Qantas will take over Terminal 3 once Virgin moves out.
“It is a world class airport for may I add a world class airline,” Borghetti told reporters in the new T1 Domestic Pier on Friday.
Perth Airport hopes eventually to have all flights operating from the eastern side of the airfield sometime in the next decade.
The T1 Domestic Pier has 12 hybrid desks which have been developed by technology provider SITA, which can be switched from self-service bag drop to manned checkin counters within five minutes.
“We are now working with the airlines generally about planning and designing that final phase of consolidation,” Geatches said.
Virgin Australia chief executive John Borghetti at the self-service checkin kiosk with staff. Borghetti said this would allow the airline the flexibility to cater for the demands of different customers, as well as better manage operations in peak and off-peak times of the day. There are also 28 self-service checkin kiosks for travellers to print boarding passes and baggage tags. 56 | TURBULENCE | ISSUE 11 | 2015
“Even though the demand for aviation in Western Australia is slowing, we are not breaking stride with our investments. We understand that aviation you have to be able to look through the cycle because what you are delivering is complex and has long lead times.” Construction on the terminal, which cost $300 million, was delayed by 12 months due to the complexity of the project and some problems with steel purchased by the company that built the terminal, Geatches said.
QANTAS “CELEBRATES” ALL BLACKS WIN Qantas has found out the hard way what happens when you bet against the All Blacks. As a sponsor of the Wallabies, the Flying Kangaroo had little choice but to put its money where its mouth when in the lead up to the Rugby World Cup final a friendly wager was struck with Air New Zealand. However, Qantas has paid a price for its loyalty to the Australian rugby team, after the All Blacks successfully defended their title at Twickenham on Sunday with a 34-17 win over a gallant Wallabies. In the lead up to the big game, some friendly banter between Qantas and Air NZ social media teams led to the two airlines agreeing to a bet. Initial thoughts were for a change of aircraft livery. Eventually sanity, or financial considerations, prevailed and the terms of the wager were decided – crews of the losing carrier had to wear the winning nation’s jersey on board. And that is what occurred on Monday, when Qantas crews received their new uniforms from their counterparts at Air NZ.
“I have found out that there ain’t no surer way to find out whether you like people or hate them than to travel with them.” Mark Twain, Tom Sawyer Abroad
QANTAS TO GO DAILY ON PERTH TO SINGAPORE Qantas will boost its Perth-Singapore flights to daily and add extra services between Sydney and Hong Kong over summer as the airline continues its Asian expansion with increased fleet utilisation and a flexible schedule designed to cater to peak demand. Launched with five services a week in June, Qantas will add an extra two flights a week on the Singapore-Perth route from December 1 to offer a daily service that will operate year round. Qantas exited year-round Perth-Singapore service with Airbus A330 aircraft in May 2014, but resumed flights between the West Australian capital and Singapore with smaller Boeing 737-800s. “Perth-Singapore has been a success story since Qantas flights resumed in June,” Qantas International chief executive Gareth Evans said in a statement on Friday. “We’ve had fantastic backing from the community and the time is right to go daily all year round.” Meanwhile, Qantas said it would offer 12 flights a week between Hong Kong and Sydney from December 11 2015 to March 23 2016, with two services a day on weekdays and one flight a day on the weekend.
SINGAPORE AIRLINES BRINGS PREMIUM ECONOMY TO AUCKLAND Auckland has become the latest destination to receive Singapore Airline’s (SIA) new premium economy cabin. SIA has upgauged its daily service between Singapore and Auckland to the Airbus A380, from the Boeing 777-300ER, for the peak summer holiday season. The aircraft change, which also occurred in the prior
year, means the Star Alliance member is offering four classes to Auckland for the first time comprising First/Suites, Business, Premium Economy and Economy. SIA flight SQ285, pictured above being operated by 9V-SKH touching down at Auckland Airport on Saturday, and the reciprocal SQ286, will be flown with the double-decker superjumbo until the end of March 2016. The airline’s Singapore-
The increases come on top of recent announcements covering seasonal increase to Manila, Jakarta and Hong Kong. The oneworld alliance member recently went to 11 flights a week on the Sydney-Hong Kong route and Qantas chief executive Alan Joyce indicated when the announcement was made in September he was looking to add more flights to Hong Kong if additional takeoff and landing slots could be found at the busy Chek Lap Kok Airport. “Unfortunately until the third runway is built in Hong Kong it means there is limited growth opportunities for Australian carriers compared to Hong Kong-based carriers and that needs to be recognised in any bilateral discussions,” Joyce told reporters on September 9. “We’ve got plenty of room to grow in the current bilateral, the trouble is we can’t get the slots to grow.” Evans said there was good demand on Asian routes, given more Australian businesses were expanding their operations in the Asia-Pacific, while a lower Australian dollar had made it more affordable for tourists to head Down Under. “It’s about being agile to adjust to changes in the market where it’s needed – and we’re able to do that by maximising the utilisation of our large, varied fleet,” Evans said. “Because this growth is coming from increased fleet utilisation, it is a very cost efficient way to meet that rising demand.”
Auckland and SingaporeChristchurch flights are operated in partnership with fellow Star Alliance member Air New Zealand, which does have a premium economy cabin on its Auckland-Singapore service. SIA’s four-class A380s have either 441 or 379 seats, depending on configuration. Premium economy is being rolled out to 19 cities as SIA retrofits 19 777-300ER and 19 A380 aircraft with the
cabin between economy and business, with Sydney the first destination to receive the new cabin. Further, SIA’s first 20 A350 deliveries will also feature premium economy, with the first A350-900 due to be delivered in early 2016. The first long-haul route earmarked for the aircraft is Singapore-Amsterdam. The total cost of the premium economy fit out was US$80 million, SIA said in May.
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FLIGHT DECK
Travel information & Industry News
MARRIOTT INTERNATIONAL BUYS STARWOOD HOTELS IN 12 BILLION DEAL US hoteliers Marriott International and Starwood Hotels have agreed a $12.2bn (£8bn) deal to create the world’s biggest hotel company. Combined, the two firms have more than 5,500 hotels with 1.1 million rooms and $2.7bn in revenue. The two boards have “unanimously agreed” to the deal, under which Marriott will buy Starwood. The tie-up will see them overtake the UK’s Intercontinental Hotels, which has just under 5,000 hotels. J.W. Marriott, Jr, chairman of the Maryland-based company, said: “We have competed with Starwood for decades and we have also admired them.” Marriott chief executive Arne Sorenson, who will head the new group, said the two firms hoped to become “the world’s favourite travel company”. Starwood shares closed 3.6% lower at $72.27 after the deal was announced, while Marriott shares rose 1.4% to $73.72. The deal will combine Marriott’s 19 brands, including Ritz-
ETIHAD A380 HEADED TO MELBOURNE IN JUNE 2016 Etihad Airways’ flagship Airbus A380 will touch down in Melbourne in June 2016. The Victorian capital will be the airline’s second Australian port and fourth destination overall to receive A380 services, after the double decker superjumbo debuted on the Abu Dhabi-Sydney route in June 2015. The move represented a 26 per cent increase in capacity between Melbourne and Abu Dhabi to about 11,500 seats a week, Etihad said in 58 | TURBULENCE | ISSUE 11 | 2015
a statement on Friday. The A380 will be scheduled on the evening departure from Melbourne, arriving in Abu Dhabi in the early morning the next day. The reciprocal service takes off from Abu Dhabi at night, landing in Melbourne the following evening. Etihad’s second daily service to Melbourne began in August and had already exceeded expectations after just three months in operation, the airline’s chief executive James Hogan said. “Melbourne is an important
Carlton and Fairfield Inn, with Starwood’s Westin, W and St. Regis chains. Marriott will pay $11.9bn in stock and the rest in cash, and hopes to have the acquisition completed by mid-2016. Starwood, which opened a review into its strategy in April, had also been linked to deals with Intercontinental and Hyatt Hotels.
point on our global network, and our Abu Dhabi to Melbourne services continue to generate very high seat load factors on a year round basis,” Hogan said in a statement. “Deploying the 496-seat A380 to Melbourne will enable us to accelerate our growth in the Victorian market by providing additional capacity, particularly in business class, where demand for seats continually outstrips supply.” Also, Hogan noted the upgauging to the A380
would ensure passengers from Melbourne enjoyed a seamless all-A380 service to London via the airline’s Abu Dhabi hub. Etihad’s A380 features its three-room The Residence, nine first class seats, 70 business class seats and 417 economy seats. Currently, it deploys the aircraft to London and Sydney, with New York joining the A380 network in late November. The airline has taken delivery of five A380s out of a firm order of 10 of the type.
“If you reject the food, ignore the customs, fear the religion, and avoid the people, you might better stay home.” James A. Michener
ACCC DECIDES TO REAUTHROSIE VIRGIN AUSTRALIA & ETIHAD ALLIANCE! The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission has re-authorised Virgin Australia (ASX: VAH) and Etihad Airways to continue their existing air transport services international alliance, which operates between Australia and the Middle East, for a further five years. Under the Alliance, the airlines cooperate on joint
pricing and scheduling of services across their networks. Virgin and Etihad will not share revenue under the Alliance. “The ACCC considers that this Alliance would be likely to continue to deliver public benefits by promoting competition and enhancing the products and services offered to customers travelling between Australia and the Middle East and onward to destinations throughout Europe,” ACCC Chairman Rod Sims said.
QANTAS / AMERICAN GIVEN THE GREEN LIGHT The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission has issued a draft determination proposing to re-authorise Qantas (ASX: QAN) and American Airlines to continue to coordinate their operations on trans-Pacific routes for a further five years. Under the alliance, the airlines propose to continue coordination in respect of marketing and sales, freight, pricing, scheduling, distribution strategies including agency arrangements, yield and inventory management, frequent flyer programs, lounges, joint procurement, and product and service standards. “The ACCC considers this alliance would be likely to result in continued public benefits for passengers travelling between Australia and the US through enhanced products and services including new frequencies and destinations, more online connections, better scheduling, greater loyalty program benefits and improved lounge access,” ACCC Commissioner Dr Jill Walker said.
Virgin introduced SydneyAbu Dhabi services as part of the implementation of the Alliance. “The ACCC accepts that Virgin would not operate services to Abu Dhabi if this partnership with Etihad did not exist. Virgin could not offer a viable service on the route without offering the connections available on Etihad’s network within the Alliance,” Mr Sims said. The ACCC previously granted authorisation to Virgin and Etihad in
February 2011. Authorisation provides immunity from court action for conduct that might otherwise raise concerns under the competition provisions of the Competition and Consumer Act (2010). Broadly, the ACCC may grant an authorisation when it is satisfied that the public benefit from the conduct outweighs any public detriment.
The ACCC previously granted authorisation to Qantas and American Airlines on 29 September 2011. The ACCC also granted interim authorisation on 9 July 2015 to facilitate the introduction of two new alliance services from December 2015. American Airlines will begin a service operating between Sydney and Los Angeles and Qantas will begin a service operating between Sydney and San Francisco. The ACCC is seeking submissions from interested parties in relation to its draft determination, before making a final decision. Submissions are due by 18 December 2015. Authorisation provides immunity from court action for conduct that might otherwise raise concerns under the competition provisions of the Competition and Consumer Act (2010). Broadly, the ACCC may grant an authorisation when it is satisfied that the public benefit from the conduct outweighs any public detriment.
“The alliance is also likely to promote competition between other airlines that provide services on trans-Pacific routes.” “The ACCC considers that the alliance is unlikely to result in any significant public detriment, largely because the ACCC accepts that American Airlines would be unlikely to introduce its own trans-Pacific services in the absence of its alliance with Qantas,” Dr Walker said.
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FLIGHT DECK
Travel information & Industry News
Malaysia Airlines and Emirates sign agreement to expand partnership Sepang, 2 December 2015: Malaysia Airlines and Emirates today announced a new partnership that will give their customers a seamless international network connecting Malaysia to more than 90 destinations on the Emirates network across Europe, Middle East, Africa and the Americas, exclusive frequent flyer benefits and world-class travel experiences. Expanded global reach for both Emirates and Malaysia Airlines customers Under the agreement signed by Emirates’ President Sir Tim Clark and Malaysia Airlines’ Chief Executive Officer Christoph Mueller, Malaysia Airlines will add its code on flights of Emirates to Europe, Middle East, 60 | TURBULENCE | ISSUE 11 | 2015
Africa and the Americas. In return, Emirates will add its code on flights of Malaysia Airlines to domestic routes in Malaysia, South East Asia and selective cities across the Asia Pacific region. The codeshare will be implemented progressively throughout 2016 subject to regulatory approvals. With the Emirates partnership, Malaysia Airlines’ customers will have access to 38 European, 15 Americas and 38 destinations in the Middle East and Africa and Indian Ocean, whilst Emirates’ customers will have access to Malaysia Airlines’ extensive Asia Pacific network with up to 300 daily departures in the region. Sales under this codeshare agreement will commence from February 1 2016. Enhanced Benefits for Customers Malaysia Airlines’ Chief Executive Officer Christoph Mueller said: “The strategic
partnership paves the path towards an integrated customer proposition offering for both airlines. The improved connectivity will enable Malaysia Airlines customers to reach up to 38 destinations in Europe on a daily and even double daily basis for key European cities such as Zurich, Rome, Munich, Frankfurt, Madrid, and Barcelona. This partnership gives our customers access to a dramatically expanded range of travel options. It is a great way for customers to travel seamlessly to major cities across the world. Furthermore, Dubai is a tourism, trade and logistics hub which has earned itself the reputation as being the gateway between the East and the West. Not only will this provide Malaysians unprecedented superconnectivity to the whole world, it will also make it much easier for travellers from all corners of the
globe to visit Malaysia and experience its rich culture, nature and Malaysian hospitality. This is part of the national carrier’s initiative towards enhancing air connectivity with key priority markets overseas for increased tourist arrivals into Malaysia.” “Our new codeshare agreement with Malaysia Airlines will enable our passengers to experience new destinations and improved connectivity in the ever-popular Southeast Asia region, and also additional comforts such as reciprocal lounge access and priority check-in,” said Sir Tim Clark, President Emirates. “Malaysia Airlines’ extensive network in the emerging Southeast Asia region perfectly complements Emirates’ global network and enhances the choice of travel destinations for customers in both the business and leisure segment.”
ECOMMENDS
SEAN SIMMONS
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BOUZY ROUGE Looking for a unique venue for your end of year Christmas function? Bouzy Rouge is a Richmond institution with a Mediterranean feel that is truly authentic. The menu is also truly amazing.
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2016 SPORTS CALENDAR presented by Sportsnet Holidays January
April
2 - 10 Jan, Queensland Tennis Centre, Brisbane: Brisbane International 2016 presented by Suncorp
4 - 10 Apr, Augusta National Golf Club, USA: 2016 US Masters
3 -9 Jan, Perth Arena, WA: Hopman Cup 2016 18 -31, Melbourne Park, VIC: Australian Open 2016 February 5 - 7 Feb, Mount Panorama Circuit, NSW: 2016 Liqui Moly Bathurst 12 Hour 6-7, ANZ Stadiun, Sydney: HSBC Sydney 7’s 2016 6 - 7 Feb, Eden Park, Auckland: 2016 Dick Smith NRL Auckland Nines 7 Feb, Levi’s Stadium, USA: 2016 Super Bowl 50 12 - 14 Feb, Air Canada Centre, Canada: 2016 NBA All-Star Weekend 21 - 24 Feb, Daytona International Speedway, USA: 2016 NASCAR Daytona 500 March 3 - 6 Mar, Adelaide, SA: 2016 Clipsal 500 Adelaide 17 - 20 Mar, Melbourne Grand Prix Circuit, VIC: 2016 Formula 1® Australian Grand Prix 20 Mar, Brisbane Entertainment Centre, QLD: UFC Fight Night 84
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25 Apr, Melbourne Cricket Ground, VIC: 2016 Collingwood vs Essendon ANZAC Day Clash May 21 May, Wembley Stadium, England: 2016 FA Cup Final 22 May - 5 Jun, Roland Garros, France: French Open 2016 26 - 29 May, Monte Carlo Street Circuit, Monaco: 2016 Formula 1® Grand Prix de Monaco 28 May - 10 Jun: Snaefall Mountain Course, UK: Isle of Man TT 2016 29 May, Indiananoplis Motor Speedway, USA: 2016 IndyCar Indianapolis 500 June 1 Jun, ANZ Stadium, NSW: 2016 Holden State of Origin - Game 1, Sydney 17 - 19 Jun, Hidden Valley Raceway, Darwin: 2016 Skycity Triple Corwn Darwin 400 22 Jun, Suncorp Stadium, QLD: 2016 Holden State of Origin - Game 2, Brisbane 23 - 26 Jun, Goodwood Estate, England: Goodwood Festival of Speed 2016
27 Jun - 10 Jul, All England Lawn Tennis Club, UK: 2016 Wimbledon Championships
October
July
6 - 9 Oct, Mount Panorama, NSW: 2016 Supercheap Auto Bathurst 1000
2 - 24 July, France: Tour de France 2016 10 - 17 Jul, Royal Troon Golf Club, Scotland: 2016 British Open 13 Jul, ANZ Stadium, NSW: 2016 Holden State of Origin - Game 3, Sydney 8 - 10 Jul, Townsville, QLD: 2016 Castrol EDGE Townsville 400 August 12 - 14 Aug, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia: Kl City Grand Prix 2016 29 Aug - 4 Sep, Snaefall Mountain Course, UK: Isle of Man Classic TT 2016 5 - 21 Aug, Rio de Janerio, Brazil: 2016 Rio Olympic Games September 16 - 18 Sep, Marina Bay Street Circuit, Singapore: 2016 Formula 1 ® Singapore Airlines Singapore Grand Prix 30 Sep - 2 Oct, Sepang International Circuit, Malaysia: 2016 Formula 1® Petronas Malaysia Grand Prix 20 Sep - 2 Oct, Hazeltine National Gold Club, USA: 2016 Ryder Cup
2 Oct, ANZ Stadium, NSW: 2016 Telstra Premiership NRL Grand Final
7 - 9 Oct, Sepang International Circuit, Malaysia: 2016 Malaysian Motorcycle Grand Prix 21 - 23 Oct, Gold Coast Street Circuit, QLD: 2016 Castrol Gold Coast 600 21 - 23 Oct, Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, VIC: 2016 Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix 29 Oct, Moonee Valley Racecourse, VIC: William Smith Cox Plate 2016 October-November 29 Oct - 5 Nov, Flemington Racecourse, VIC: 2016 Melbourne Cup Carnival
Plan your next year of sport with Sean Simmons Travel. We have your access covered with packages to any of the events you see here. Contact the team today.