Turbulence November 2014

NOVEMBER 2014

TURBULENCE

10 Day tour SEE INSIDE PAGE 6

FINALIS T 2013 & 2014

VIETNAM

EXOTIC AND COMPELLING

HOTEL SALE ON NOW

CHRISTMAS

GIFT GUIDE FOR THE TRAVELLER

FROM THE

FLIGHT DECK

TRAVEL INFORMATION AND INDUSTRY NEWS

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

E enquiries@seanstravel.com.au W seansimmons travel.com.au ABN 48153795129 | AFTA 10216 | ATAS A10436 TURBULENCE OCTOBER 2014 | 1

“Airplane travel is nature’s way of making you look like your passport photo”

Al Gore

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THIS ISSUE 5 FROM THE EDITOR 6 Vietnam Exploring CHRISTMAS GIFT IDEAS FOR TRAVEL LOVERS

13

EXCLUSIVE DEAL THE LANGHAM

15

SYDNEY’S MOST EXCLUSIVE ADDRESS

WHERE THE WHALES PLAY

16

19 TALKING SHOP

Exclusive news and promotions from our online store.

20 HOT QLD DEALS 21 Luxury Hotel Sale 22 Flight Deck TRAVEL TIPS

24

Planet of the Apps

27

Cosmetic Tourism under the Microscope

30

To the point

32

Loyalty program news and updates

Virgin Australia News

28 Have card, will travel Prepaid Travel Cards, which Card will suit your needs?

31 SeAn simmons recommends

36

Travel information & Industry News

MBE Richmond

34 Row 75

Srticles of interest

37 SPORTS EVENTS 2015 CALENDAR

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weLCOME TO THE NOVEMBER ISSUE Greetings and welcome to the November edition of Turbulence!

Firstly, a huge thank you all those who reached out to congratulate us on the new magazine format. Your support is much appreciated and it is only because of you guys that we are able to keep growing and doing what we love – which is bringing you the best in travel.

FROM THE EDITOR DID YOU KNOW?

You can now make group bookings within AeTM! Simply select the staff for whom you would like to arrange travel and complete the online booking as you normally would.This is especially handy when staff are travelling together for training, conferences or events.

For any other queries relating to AeTM, please contact Sean Simmons Travel on aetm@seanstravel.com.au

A special note to one cheeky subscriber who cleverly spotted that we mistakenly used a photo of Asian elephants in our Africa spread last month - you know who you are and thank you for letting us know!

Our latest edition is packed with even more new segments including ‘To the Point’, a dedicated section that will bring you updates, tips and tricks to get the most out of your loyalty program or frequent flyer credit card.

This month we put our destination spotlight on Vietnam, a visually stunning country that abounds with things to see and do. From roaming the bustling city streets of Ho Chi Minh to relaxing in the beach capital that is Nha Trang, exploring the Buddhist and Hindhu sanctuaries of Marble Mountain and crawling your way through the Cu Chi Tunnels – this splendid nation is steeped with both its own ancient culture and the more recent influences of the French and the Americans.

Check out the spread inside and speak to our travel experts about tailoring a unique Vietnam experience for you today.

As I’m sure we all know, Christmas is fast approaching and to celebrate we are giving away travel accessories when you purchase any large suitcase from our online store. See page 21 for details on how to redeem your free gift.

As always, we are here to offer expert advice and smart, custom solutions designed to suit your every travel need. If you have any questions, suggestions or feedback, please don’t hesitate to email info@seanstravel.com.au Happy reading!

Sean Smmons.

TURBULENCE NOVEMBER 2014 | 5

VIETNAM EXPLORING

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Vietnam is a perfect balance between ancient times and the here and now, a country that reveres its past heroes, a nation that has collectively put the woes of war behind it, and people who welcome visitors to their country with open arms and friendly smiles.

Verdant patchworks of rice paddies, pointed lampshade-style hats, a country ravaged by war, and economic repression - these are the international images of Vietnam, seen on worldwide television and read about in the newspapers. But there are other scenes to be found, ones of natural beauty, ethnic culture, and imperial history, of timeless traditional villages, idyllic sea resorts and dynamic cities.

Shaped like an elongated ‘S’, Vietnam stretches along the east coast of the Indochinese Peninsula and is likened by its people to a long bamboo pole hung with two baskets of rice, represented by the two fertile regions at either end of the country. Between the

lush Red River Delta and the highlands in the north, known for their magnificent scenery and colourful hill tribes, and the agricultural plains and floating markets of the Mekong Delta in the south, lie miles of white sandy beaches, towering mountains, rivers and dense forests, and the thousands of bizarre rock and cave formations on the islands of Halong Bay. The impact of Japanese and Chinese trade, French occupation and American intervention has left its stain on Vietnam, smeared over a period of more than two thousand years of recorded history.

evident in the character of its towns, as well as in the architecture and food. The quaint town of Hoi An, once a major trading port, boasts the perfectly preserved architectural influences of the Asian merchants from the north, while the broad leafy boulevards of the capital Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City are reminiscent of France. Menus offer Chinese variations of spring rolls, steamed dumplings and noodles. Hué is the old imperial capital of Vietnam with its royal palaces and palatial mausoleums, and nearby the battle sites of the Demilitarised Zone (DMZ) are reminders of the brutality of war.

Ancient temples and colourful pagodas are scattered throughout the urban centres, while among them stand hotels of modern luxury, and the development of tourism infrastructure is a booming business.

Now’s the time to visit Vietman and experience her culture, history, stunning scenery and delicious traditional food.

However, the country has also been left with a vivid legacy from different cultures

For all ENQUIRIES email enquiries@seanstravel.com.au TURBULENCE NOVEMBER 2014 | 7

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VIETNAM EXPLORING We’ve put together A tour to Experience some of Vietnam’s popular destinations or Call a Sean Simmons Travel Expert to tailor your own exclusive Vietnam package.

VERY VIETNAM TOUR 10 days FROM AUD $2,099

From charming Hanoi with its fading colonial architecture and national monuments, to the spellbinding scenery of Halong Bay and the steamy city of Saigon on the edge of the Mekong Delta, Vietnam is as colourful as it is diverse. See the very best of vibrant Vietnam, in 10 captivating days!

Trip Highlights • Hanoi - Hoan Kiem Lake and the Ancient Quarter • Hue - ancient citadel, Imperial Purple City, Royal Tombs, Thien Mu Pagoda and monastery • Saigon - ‘Pearl of the Orient!. Notre Dame Cathedral, Old Post Office and War Remnants Museum • Cai Be waterways, cottage industries, mansion home and Dong Hoa Hiep Island • Halong Bay - UNESCO Listed region with thousands of beautiful limestone peaks and islets • Hoi An - UNESCO Listed ancient town, famed for its beautifully preserved old city, tailors, handicrafts markets and nearby beaches • Mekong Delta - a maze of waterways, fertile farm land and floating villages • Can Tho - lively market town in the Mekong Delta and nearby Cai Rang floating market

What’s Included • 7 nights 4 star and special class hotels, 1 night deluxe junk boat (private cabin) 1 overnight sleeper train (basic 4 berth cabin.)

• 9 breakfasts, 4 lunches and 1 dinner • Economy class flight Danang - Saigon • Bicycle ride to Tra Que village and cooking demonstration • Airport arrival transfer day 1 and departure transfer day 10 • Escorted by an English speaking Vietnamese tour guide.

• Visa approval letter (excl. stamping fee required upon arrival) • Halong Bay Junk boat cruise - swim, kayak, explore caves and floating villages • Sampan and row boat journeys in the Mekong Delta • Guided sightseeing - Hanoi, Halong Bay, Hue, Ho Ain, Mekong Delta and Saigon • All relevant transfers and transportation in private air-conditioned vehicles • Maximum group size: 24 travellers

What’s Not Included • International flights and visa. Vietnam visa letter included - stamping fee required upon arrival • Entrance Fees: $25 - $30 USD • Tip for your tour guide. We recommend you allow USD$3 - 6 per day, per traveller. Tipping your guide is an entirely personal gesture • Suggested tipping Kitty: $25 - $30 USD FOR THE FULL ITINERARY, TOUR DATES AND BOOKINGS CONTACT YOUR SEAN SIMMONS TRAVEL EXPERT TODAY!

Terms and conditions: This tour is operated by On the Go Tours and is subject to their terms and conditions. Subject to availability. Prices correct as at 14 November and subject to change without notice. Credit card and booking fees may apply.

For all ENQUIRIES email enquiries@seanstravel.com.au TURBULENCE NOVEMBER 2014 | 9

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VIETNAM EXPLORING

LUXURY!

DA NANG

FUSION MAIA DA NANG

The first all-inclusive Spa Resort in Asia and voted the winner (Asia) for the World Luxury Spa Awards 2013!

Care Harmony FROM AUD $2,125 PP Twin share

all villas with private pool

all spa-inclusive

Fusion Maia a 5 star beach resort on Vietnam’s central coast offers 80 chic pool villas, 4 spa and 3 direct beach front villas, all with modern open-plan living and courtyard with private swimming pool.

The all-inclusive concept invites guests to enjoy the spa experience be it a manicure, massage or full package, at no extra cost.

Fusion Lounge Hoi An is also available for guests’ enjoyment and complimentary express spa treatments whilst exploring the eclectic old town of Hoi An.

into our color-coded Seven Daily Practices.

From the bright daisies to the bike excursions, our holistic approach to wellness ensures to take the Fusion Feeling home, bringing balance to your daily life.

Surprise Includes:

Feeling

breakfast any time, any place

natural living program • 7 nights in Pool Villa • Breakfast anywhere anytime • All Spa Treatments • Resort hosted tours • Natural living activities • Full board spa cuisine • Complimentary return airport transfer • Bonus night included

The uniqueness of Maia Spa

- All-inclusive package of treatments included in the room rate Why didn’t anyone think about it before...? - Splendid location in a lush tropical garden with a waterfall at its heart Fusion DaBoard Nang , Asia’s first all spa-inclusive resort NaturalMaia Living Full Package - 16 treatment rooms, two beauty salons, Must book before December 20, 2014 steam rooms, saunas, private Jacuzzis, and The philosophy reading Fusion Resorts create innovative withroom a winning combination of surprise, happiness, Fusion Maia provides thelifestyle keys concepts to living which provide guests relaxation andAll value for money.

Fusion Resorts naturally.

Maia Spa treatments areembrace the idea that travel & lifestyle can be combined.

POOL VILLA - AUD accessible to all guests at no extra cost. Fifty Single occupancy $3,386* Fusion Maia Da Nang talented wellness specialists offer a range With design, down-to-earth five-star and a surprising all spa-inclusive Maia Da Nang is a ofsimple healing massages, wraps, bodyservice polishes Double occupancy concept, Fusion $4,249* ground-breaking resort classes - the first including in Asia - providing all spa treatments, private pools and breakfast any time and place and facials, plus yoga and * Subject to currency fluctuations included in the standard room rate.

The resort has an meditation. It’s all part of our Natural Livingunmistakable Fusion design identity that is inspired by the rich local culture and its beautiful location.

Program, encompassing spirit-lifting activities, nourishing cuisine and practical ideas curated A memorable experience Be assisted in a splendid experience by our Fusionistas, experience-mixologists who delight in sharing their passion for the resort by helping guests create individualized stays.

NEED FLIGHTS?

Be indulged with a delightful breakfast - at any place, any time - even in the heart of Vietnam’s old town at Fusion Lounge in Hoi An or on the beach Treat yourself to a minimum of 2 treatments per day in Asia’s first all-spa inclusive

Vietnam Flights are on sale now! Call your Sean Simmons Travel Expert for a Quote.

Accompany your Fusionista on a truly memorable excursion so you can immerse yourself in the Vietnamese culture such as tai chi on Marble Mountain Surprise your partner with a private BBQ in the privacy of your villa garden

For all ENQUIRIES email enquiries@seanstravel.com.au TURBULENCE NOVEMBER 2014 | 11

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CHRISTMAS GIFT IDEAS FOR TRAVEL LOVERS

Looking for the perfect gift for that special jetsetter? Here are our top picks for the best unique gift ideas for people who love to travel.

FLYTOGRAPHER

Best for: Special occasions, big holidays Flytographer is a vacation photography service and is pretty much the best thing since sliced bread. Whether traveling or in your home city, you can be joined by a professional photographer who will create everlasting, beautiful and unique memories at your destination.

Flytographer services over 100 cities worldwide, including Melbourne and Sydney (great news for the locals).

UPGRADES + HOTEL EXTRAS

Best for: Anyone with upcoming travel If you know someone who has upcoming travel plans, why not get in touch with the hotel to upgrade their booking a level or two. If you can stand the anticipation, don’t tell them and let them have a big surprise upon arrival.

For those on a smaller budget, most hotels will gladly organise a bottle of wine or cakes in the room. Or, if the hotel has an onsite spa – why not organise a small treatment for their visit.

Contact our travel experts to arrange the upgrade in advance.

SELFIE STICK

Best for: Solo travellers, couples This present makes a great stocking stuffer.

The first time I saw one of these on my travels I thought they looked absolutely ridiculous. But once you’ve actually used one, you’ll see how much better your photos can look!

Love or loathe, the selfie is here to stay. You might feel like an idiot using a selfie stick,

but you’ll be thankful when you are able to fit that all-important landmark in to your photos.

DELUXE TRAVEL TOILETRIES

Best for: That special someone Your special traveller will appreciate useful and luxurious mini-sized products and travel kits.

Molton Brown, Kiehls, L’Occitane and The Body Shop are just a few of the brands that offer specialty travel products that are sure to please, with wonderful collections for both her and him.

LANGUAGE COURSES

Best for: Anyone wanting to learn another language Do you know someone who is always hinting about wanting to learn another language but they’ve never done anything about it? Audio language courses could be the perfect encouragement. Rosetta Stone, Strokes Interactive and Michel Thomas all offer comprehensive interactive audio language courses. Check out the Foreign Language Bookshop for some inspiration.

Still stuck or need some more inspiration? We can definitely help.

At Sean Simmons Travel we can offer a range of perfect gift ideas, including: • Travel vouchers • Weekend stays and packages • Tours and unique experiences • Luggage and travel accessories from our online store

Whatever your travel need, we’ll have you covered this Christmas.

TURBULENCE NOVEMBER 2014 | 13

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EXCLUSIVE DEAL

THE LANGHAM

SYDNEY’S MOST EXCLUSIVE ADDRESS After undergoing a $30 million grand transformation, you’ll want to be at Sydney’s most exclusive harbour-side address when The Langham, Sydney, re-opens doors in December, 2014.

Nestled in the historic Rocks district on famous Kent Street, this beautiful five star haven enjoys seclusion and privacy, whilst being a five minute stroll through some of Sydney’s most iconic locations and the CBD. The Langham, Sydney also boasts the largest lead-in guestrooms in Sydney, including opening windows, Juliette balconies and expansive signature terraces, with either Western Harbour views or a Sydney city skyline outlook from all rooms.

Guests can also expect a grand new foyer experience with expansive Western Harbour views and light drenching over the finest white calacatta marble; hand curated art collections by Sotheby’s; Afternoon Tea with Wedgwood in an opulent, new, dedicated afternoon tea space – Palm Court, [which transforms into an elegant bar experience by evening, encompassing mixology and jazz] and a renewed focus on local, luxury experiences for guests such as Private Butler Tennis Afternoons, Exclusive Takeaway Picnic Boxes, Romantic Pink Bike Tours and Langham Sunset Sailing Sessions.

The Langham, Sydney also welcomes a brand new fine dining concept to the hotel. Kent Street Kitchen, led by Parisian-trained, Chef de Cuisine, Daniel Rudolph, will deliver an immersive culinary encounter with a focus on welcoming guests inside a real-life Chef’s kitchen, whilst delivering an elegant fine dining experience. Kent Street Kitchen will also feature an exclusive Chef’s Table experience serving a full degustation menu for special occasions.

The Day Spa at The Langham, Sydney will continue to offer relaxation and luxury at the highest and most glamourous level, and the renowned 20m indoor pool, voted Sydney’s #1 hotel pool experience, remains unchanged.

The Langham, Sydney look forward to your return, as a Legend is reborn.

EXCLUSIVE OFFER:

When Turbulence readers book a night at The Langham, Sydney before March 31, 2015, they will receive a complimentary upgrade on their VIP signature in-room amenity when they check-in to the hotel.

Experience modern luxury and stay at Sydney’s most exclusive address.

To make a booking and take advantage of this exclusive offer, contact your Sean Simmons Travel expert today.

For all ENQUIRIES email enquiries@seanstravel.com.au TURBULENCE NOVEMBER 2014 | 15

WHERE THE WHALES PLAY Tom Neal Tacker Naked Hungry Traveller Executive Editor

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When southern humpback whales stop for a rest at Queensland’s Great Sandy Strait off Fraser Island, human travellers happily share the layover Nowadays, passengers are encouraged to create lots of noise when whales are sighted to attract their attention, hopefully encouraging enough curiosity in the whales to linger socially around the boat. When I first ventured on a southern humpback whale sighting adventure in Hervey Bay some twelve years ago, the overall experience was marked by hushed solemnity, as if simply being silent in the presence of these endangered animals was sufficient thrill in itself. But times have changed and much has been learned about southern humpback whale behaviour.

The number of whales that migrate along the eastern seaboard of mainland Australia has increased to such an extent that no longer are whale sightings considered rare events.

Instead it has become commonplace during their late winter and early spring migration to see southern humpback whales all along the eastern shore of Australia from the northern extremity of Queensland’s outer Great Barrier Reef to southern Tasmania as the whales proceed to summer feeding areas off Antarctica’s icy shores. But Queensland’s Great Sandy Strait is undoubtedly whale watching central.

Previously hushed day trips out to the calm waters of shallow Platypus Bay off Fraser Island are no longer quiet. Southern humpback whales are attracted to noisy human activity. Waving, shouting, trilling and singing are encouraged by captain and crew. Don’t be surprised to find that whale watching trips in the Great Sandy Strait have become significantly louder on the decibel scale. I have the questionably good luck to be standing next to a young boy whose ability to replicate the sound of a revved up jet engine guarantees that all whales within earshot swim to us as quickly as their big fins can manage. The whales appear enthralled that such a small animal can make such a piercingly loud noise. I plant my hands over my ears and enjoy the spectacle of large whales peering intently at a small human who is peering at large whales but can’t determine which is more fascinated by which. I am also enthralled that such an incredibly visceral noise can be uttered by a human adolescent.

Last year’s southern humpback whale watching season was hugely successful. As the population of whales recovers from ruthless

hunting, evidently the whales’ collective genetic memory is shifting from innate fear to curious interest. The whales show little wariness of humans while they rest at their historical watery wayside in the tranquillity

About the Naked Hungry Traveller Why naked? We get asked this all the time. As much as we’d like to say it’s because with bodies like ours, we have nothing to be ashamed of, but that’s not the case, not by a long shot.

Instead we describe ourselves as Naked Hungry Travellers because we’re nakedly honest and we’re hungry for everything wonderful about travel. The food, knowledge, personal experiences, booze, good wine, culture and all those amazing life enhancing flavours that are part of global roaming excite us non-stop.

Naked Hungry Travellers view the world and its wonders with open minds. We’re an experienced group of writers and photographers that considers travelling the great mind and eye opener.

We believe in sustainable travel and tourism.

We believe in the principle: Leave Behind Small Footprints. We believe that the world is shrinking, that its natural resources are finite and should be treated as our most valuable possessions.

We believe in telling the truth about what we experience.

Click here for our website.

Tom Neal Tacker Naked Hungry Traveller Executive Editor

TURBULENCE NOVEMBER 2014 | 17

Naked Facts Getting There Hervey Bay is the closest airport to Fraser Island’s Kingfisher Bay Resort. Virgin and Jetstar airlines both offer daily flights from Australian capital cities. Transfers can be booked between the airport and the resort through your travel expert.

Staying There Kingfisher Bay Resort offers 3-day packages including buffet breakfast start at AUD$141pp per day.

Half-day eco-tours are available to Platypus Bay and the Great Sandy Strait on board the Quick Cat 2.

Whale watching season begins mid-August finishing late October depending on seasonal migration patterns.

Kingfisher Bay Resort also offers a variety of eco-tourism day trips around Fraser Island as well as a 3 day nature photography tour conducted by Danielle Lancaster of Blue Dog Photography late each August.

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of the Great Sandy Strait en route to Antarctica.

A few individual whales have become familiar, recognised regular visitors, a positive sign as to the longevity of the species and the effects of long term protection.

The protected waters between Fraser Island and Queensland offer safe sanctuary for mothers with calves, adolescent whales gaining strength for the long swim south, mature males stopping in for a spy-hop or two, checking out females for potential future dalliances and whole family groups of mixed ages. Some whales stay only for a day. Many stay for five days or longer.

Quick Cat 2 skipper Brian Perry tells me that from only dozens of whales spotted during an entire season in the late 80s, the number of southern humpback whales lounging around near the white sandy beaches of Fraser Island’s western shore has since grown to hundreds if not thousands.

The Perry family pioneered whale watching trips to Platypus Bay and the Great Sandy Strait 23 years ago. In 2009, they linked up with Kingfisher Resort at Kingfisher Bay on Fraser Island to offer halfday whale watching trips

to nearby Platypus Bay. Though numerous whalewatching day excursions leave from Hervey Bay’s central marina, the Perry operation, using their speedy catamaran Quick Cat 2 specially equipped with hydrophone and underwater camera, departs Kingfisher Bay Resort’s wharf midway along Fraser Island’s western shore. Passengers are smack dab in the middle of serious southern humpback whale action within 45 minutes.

I relish the opportunity to spend more time interacting with whales and less time spent travelling between Hervey Bay’s marina and Platypus Bay. Luckily I’m rewarded with dozens of sightings. A female courted by three young males breaches fifty metres from the boat.

The males take turns spyhopping, balancing on rear fins. Their massive heads are completely out of the water as they all have a long look around.

The female takes the opportunity to elude her bothersome suitors.

They’re too young for serious mating activity. For now, it’s a practice game, fun for them, annoying for the female. Another female with a young calf, six months old Perry estimates, cruises near

the boat. She shields her calf constantly but shyness is overcome by inquisitiveness while mother and infant both check out the hullabaloo coming from aboard the Quick Cat 2.

After five hours of whale watching, Perry and crew circulate word that it’s time to head back to Kingfisher Resort. When a waiter at the resort’s bar told me the night before that it was like ‘whale soup out there in Platypus Bay’, I nodded complacently, not believing a word of it. The most whales I’d seen on previous trips never exceeded ten at most. Today I’ve seen over thirty, whale soup indeed.

After five hours of whale watching, Perry and crew circulate word that it’s time to head back to Kingfisher Resort. When a waiter at the resort’s bar told me the night before that it was like ‘whale soup out there in Platypus Bay’, I nodded complacently, not believing a word of it. The most whales I’d seen on previous trips never exceeded ten at most. Today I’ve seen over thirty, whale soup indeed.

For more information and bookings, call or email your Sean Simmons Travel expert today.

P O H S G N TALKI

Exclusive news and promotions from our online store.

THE ONLINE STORE IS NOW UP AND RUNNING, SO BE SURE TO CHECK IT OUT BY CLICKING HERE.

ANTLER JUNO Super strong and light as a feather, Juno can take the knocks and bumps of the toughest journey and keep your belongings safe and sound. Made from a durable polypropylene shell, Juno will definitely stick it out when the going gets rough.

Available in black and white.

ANTLER AIRE Using innovative construction and clever design, the Aire is, quite simply, Antler’s lightest soft case ever, with the large suitcase weighing in at only 2.7kgs! This beautiful range will allow you to take your baggage allowance further than it has ever been before.

Model: Tegan Martin, Miss Universe Australia.

Images courtesy of The Cache Group of Companies.

Today, we’d like to introduce to you a couple of our amazing luggage ranges…

Available in black, charcoal and aubergine.

“CHOOSE A FREEBIE” CHRISTMAS OFFER

Between now and December 15, simply purchase ANY large suitcase from our amazing Antler range and pick your free gift from one of these THREE fantastic Go Travel accessories. Merry Christmas.

Click here to start shopping now.

TURBULENCE NOVEMBER 2014 | 19

Sea World Resort & Water Park

Day Dream Island Resort & Spa

Resort Double Room – Stay, Splash & Save Deal

Garden Balcony room

Main Beach, Queensland

$1112, twin share – for 4 nights - Free entry to Paradise Country.

- Free entry into SeaWorld.

Family Resort Room – Stay, Splash & Save Deal $2304 for 4 nights - Free entry to Paradise Country.

- Free entry into SeaWorld.

Max 4 per room – configuration is 2 double beds

Resort Queen Room – VIP Pass Deal

$1148 for 4 nights - Stay 5 nights and receive a VIP pass.

-V IP pass gives unlimited entry to Sea World, Movie World and Wet’n’Wild.

Valid for stays until 31MAR15: Sea World Resort Water Park: The Sea World water park area has been fenced off and will operate under the Sea World Resort banner which means that guests staying at Sea World resort will enjoy unlimited access the Water Park area free of charge. However guest that are visiting Sea World Theme Park will be asked to pay a fee of AUD5.00 to enter the water park area.

Prices per room per night AUD.

The Whitsundays, Queensland

$1215 for 5 nights, twin share - Stay 4 nights and receive a full breakfast daily.

- Two Seaside Escape Cocktails per room per stay.

- One AUD20.00 Living Reef voucher per room per stay.

Garden Balcony room

$1216 for 5 nights, twin share - Full buffet breakfast daily.

- Shell necklace and mocktail on arrival.

- Holiday portrait during stay.

- Over 20 guest activities including catamarans, kayaks, stand-up paddle boards, stingray and shark feeding show, open air cinema and more.

Ocean Balcony Room

$1575 for 5 nights for 5 nights, twin share - Stay 4 nights and receive a full breakfast daily.

- Two Seaside Escape Cocktails per room per stay.

- One AUD20.00 Living Reef voucher per room per stay.

Ocean Balcony Room

Flight deals to QLD with Virgin Australia To Gold Coast

$594 per person ex Perth via Sydney/Melbourne $322 per person ex Adelaide $286 per person ex Melbourne $192 per person ex Sydney

To Hamilton Island $782 per person ex Perth via Sydney $286 per person ex Sydney $550 per person ex Adelaide $520 per person ex Melbourne $226 per person ex Brisbane.

Prices as at 3 Nov 2014 including taxes, credit card fees may apply

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$1576 for 5 nights, twin share - Full buffet breakfast daily.

- Shell necklace and mocktail on arrival.

- Holiday portrait during stay.

- Over 20 guest activities including catamarans, kayaks, stand-up paddle boards, stingray and shark feeding show, open air cinema and more.

Garden Family room

$1820 for 5 nights - Stay 4 nights and receive a full breakfast daily.

- Two Seaside Escape Cocktails per room per stay.

- One AUD20.00 Living Reef voucher per room per stay Based on 6 per room, max 8

Valid for stays until 31Mar15. Transfers available at time of booking depending on arrival point (Hamilton Island / Abel Point Marina).

Prices as at 3 Nov 2014 including taxes, credit card fees may apply

GREAT SPECIALS ON 4 and 5 star properties across australia

Barossa Valley, South Australia

Daling Harbour, Sydney

Wolgan Valley, New South Wales

Lyndoch Hill, Barossa Valley, 4 star

Park Royal Darling Harbour, Sydney, 5 star

Emirates Wolgan Valley Resort and Spa, 5 staR

from $370 per person twin share - 4 nights in a Rose Garden Room including - Bottle of wine & cheese plate on arrival - Light breakfast daily Valid for travel: until 31 Mar 15 subject to availability

from $495 per person twin share - 2 nights in a Club Darling Harbour View Room - Full buffet breakfast daily - Evening drinks and canapés in the club lounge - Late check-out til 12pm Valid for travel 08 Oct – 14 Dec, subject to availability

from $1675 per person - 2 nights in a Romance Package, Heritage Suite including - All meals, all non-alcoholic drinks and selected alcoholic beverages with meals - 2 on-site based activities daily - 1 bottle of French Champagne - Breakfast in bed on one morning during your stay

Valid for travel until 22 Dec, subject to availability

Yarra Valley, Victoria

Tropical North Queensland

Conditions apply. Prices are per person twin share unless otherwise stated & are in Australian dollars. Prices & conditions current at time of printing & subject to change without notice.

Airfares not included. Transfers not included.

Valid for Sale: 1 May – 15 Dec 14. Valid for travel 16 May – 31 Mar 15 unless otherwise specified.

Free nights included in total stay if applicable. ^Subject to availability Other room types may be available Surcharge of 1.8% applies for payment by credit card

Balgownie Estate Vineyard Resort & Spa, Yarra Valley, 4.5 star

from $375 per person twin share - 2 nights in a Gourmet Escape, Standard Queen Room including - Full buffet breakfast daily - Bottle of Balgownie Estate NV sparkling wine - Two course dinner for 2

Peppers Beach Club & Spa, Palm Cove, 5 star from $506 per person - 4 nights in a Lagoon Spa Room including - Stay 4 nights pay only 3 - Full buffet breakfast daily Valid for travel: 1 Nov – 31 Dec, subject to availability

Offer subject to availability. Prices are correct as at 08OCT2014 and are subject to change without notice. Credit card and booking fees may apply.

CALL A SEAN SIMMONS TRAVEL EXPERT TODAY FOR THESE GREAT SPECIALS AND MANY MORE!

Valid for travel until 31 Mar 14, subject to availability

TURBULENCE NOVEMBER 2014 | 21

FLIGHT DECK

Travel information & Industry News Emirates Rolls Out FREE Inflight Internet on Airbus A380, Boeing 777 Fleet

over half a million passengers using the facility throughout the past three years.

Wireless inflight Internet is now free across the bulk of Emirates’ Airbus A380 and Boeing 777 fleet, with each passenger getting 10MB of data at no cost.

The airline expects the demand for sky-high surfing to increase “exponentially”, although notes that the initial free 10MB allowance isn’t available on a small number of its Airbus A380 and Boeing 777 aircraft.

Want more data? Just $1 – yes, a single dollar – will land you a solid 600MB. And Emirates isn’t stopping there, with the airline promising “to eventually enable passengers to have unlimited free access to Wi-Fi” at 35,000 feet.

“We’ve always viewed Wi-Fi as a service and a value-added part of Emirates’ overall product, rather than a revenue stream,” said Sir Tim Clark, President of Emirates.

Last month roughly 3,500 passengers used Emirates’ on-board Wi-Fi service each day, with the average user downloading 28MB between take-off and touchdown.

The highest number of Wi-Fi users recorded on a single Emirates flight was 153 passengers on an Airbus A380, while the greatest internet volume recorded on a single EK flight was nearly 8GB from just 26 users aboard a Boeing 777.

“Ultimately, we believe that on-board Wi-Fi will become a free service, and a standard that customers will expect on a full service airline, just like on-board refreshments and personal inflight entertainment.”

According to the airline, the sites its passengers most frequently access in the sky include Google, Facebook, and chat services Skype, WhatsApp and BlackBerry Messenger, with 10MB of data more than enough for the obligatory social media check-in.

Currently, all 53 A380s in Emirates’ fleet are kitted up as giant Internet hotspots, while 28 of EK’s 142-strong Boeing 777 aircraft also have on-board connectivity.

Sir Tim Clark added: “If we can offer good quality Wi-Fi connections for everyone on-board at no charge tomorrow, we will do it.”

The airline is also spending US$20 million each year to retrofit its entire fleet with Wi-Fi – including onto other aircraft types such as the Airbus A330.

All of Emirates’ flights from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide to Dubai are operated by Airbus A380s or Boeing 777s, as are its trans-Tasman flights and services from Australia’s east coast to Singapore, Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur.

Emirates first launched inflight Internet access in 2011, with

It’s a Deal, It’s a Steal, It’s the Sale of the Century: Virgin Pays $1 for Tiger Virgin Australia plans to buy the remaining 40% of shares in Tiger Australia from Tiger Airways Holdings for A$1 and fly the airline on a number of short-haul international routes.

Virgin already owns 60% stake in the airline, and once the latest transaction is completed, it will secure 100% of the loss-making low cost carrier, Tiger 22 | TURBULENCE NOVEMBER 2014

Australia concluding the joint venture which commenced in mid last year.

As part of the acquisition, Virgin Australia will be bestowed brand rights to fly Tiger Australia to short-haul international destinations providing new growth opportunities in line with the group’s ‘Virgin Vision’ strategy to 2017, according to the airline.

“Given the ongoing subdued consumer demand in the Australian domestic market, the growth of the Tigerair Australia domestic

fleet is likely to be reduced.

Under this proposed transaction, we will benefit from the economies and achieve profitability ahead of schedule by the end of 2016 by leveraging the resources of the Virgin Australia Group,” Virgin CEO, John Borghetti said.

Borghetti said Virgin remains committed to maintaining the airline’s low cost business model and the separate Tigerair brand, “ensuring that we can continue to deliver the most competitive pricing in

Australian budget travel”.

Virgin said the partnership will continue in future through brand licencing and certain services will continue to be provided by Singaporean-based Tiger Holdings to Tiger Australia.

Virgin said it will consolidate Tiger Australia’s financial results moving forward should the transaction proceed.

The transaction, subject to Federal Investment Review Board approval, is expected to be completed by the end of the year.

“Never go on trips with anyone you do not love” Ernest Hemingway

Virgin Shows off New Dreamliner, Gets Backing for Low Carbon ‘Ground-Breaking’ Flight One of the world’s largest banking organisations, HSBC, has pitched in support for Virgin Atlantic’s partnership with LanzaTech to launch a “world-first” flight using a “groundbreaking low carbon fuel” now set for lift off as soon as 2015.

LanzaTech is currently developing the “revolutionary fuel” which uses waste gases from industrial steel production converted for use as jet fuel.

According to the airline, HSBC’s support will allow for production of the innovative fuel to move from “sample size” to “demo scale” for the proving flight which will half the carbon footprint of petroleum jet.

“Virgin Atlantic was the first commercial airline to demonstrate the potential of a bio-fuel flight back in 2008 and today we are leading the way again as we work towards cleaner, more sustainable air travel,” Virgin Atlantic, president, Richard Branson said, speaking at the launch event of the airline’s new Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, an aircraft said to use over 20% less fuel

Qantas Adds New Fee for Supervising Unaccompanied Children Unaccompanied children booked to fly on the national carrier from next month will now be forced to pay a new fee due to increasing supervision costs, according to Qantas.

on a per flight basis than the aircraft it replaces.

Virgin Atlantic’s Dreamliner will make up 40% of its fleet and will join the LanzaTech fuel solution as a major contributor towards the airline’s commitment to reduce its carbon footprint by 30% per revenue tonne km between 2007 and 2020. The carrier has placed an order for 15 787-Dreamliners, the largest single order by a European carrier.

LanzaTech estimates that its process can apply to 65% of the world’s steel mills, allowing the fuel to be scaled up for worldwide use.

“It will be a commercially viable option for airlines as it is a ‘drop in’ fuel, requiring no modifications to engine or aircraft technology, and will be produced at a cost comparable to conventional jet fuel,” LanzaTech said.

“Together with our partners, we understand the need to have a fully sustainable fuel that is economic and has no impact on water, land or food resources. From mill to wing-LanzaTech’s carbon recycling platform challenges the status quo.

Today, we recycle glass, paper and metals so why not carbon?” LanzaTech chief executive, Dr Jennifer Holmgren said.

“Given the increasing demand for this extra support, and the increasing costs involved, we cannot continue to provide this service completely free of charge. This change brings Qantas in line with many of its domestic and international competitors.”

Children aged between 5 to 11 and not travelling with a parent, guardian, nominated adult or sibling aged over 15, will pay $50 per booking on domestic and regional flights, and $90 on international flights for travel from November 3.

Virgin Australia has already introduced charges for unaccompanied children between the ages of 5 to 11, with fees set at $40 per sector on domestic journeys and $60 per sector on short-haul international flights. Return bookings would incur higher fees than those set by Qantas.

Children under 6 will not be allowed to travel alone on international flights over 6 hours and those between 12 to 15 can choose to travel as an unaccompanied child without incurring the new charges.

Additional services outlined by Qantas for unaccompanied children travelling with the airline include administration at airports, immigration and security screening, onboard assistance and ground staff escort for connecting flights.

The fees are doubled if not pre-paid ahead of travel, and passengers will be expected to pay $100 per domestic booking and $180 for international flights at the airport.

The airline said the fees were a result of a rising number of unaccompanied children travelling, according to a report.

“The introduction of an Unaccompanied Minor Supervision Fee will assist in recovering some of the additional costs of the extra services and facilities provided for the comfort and safety of children travelling without a parent or guardian,” the spokeswoman said.

“Qantas recognises the importance of providing children travelling alone with the highest levels of comfort and support,” a spokeswoman said.

TURBULENCE NOVEMBER 2014 | 23

SEAN’s

TRAVEL TIPS to make your journey a little bit easier

24 | TURBULENCE NOVEMBER 2014

An expert’s guide to travelling solo Put off by the prospect of travelling alone? Here are some tried and tested survival strategies from an expert traveler who has been doing it for two decades.

Most things in life get easier as we get older. Travelling by yourself, it seems, is not one of them. For older travellers, the idea of a solo adventure can be more daunting.

There’s the stress of having to look after everything yourself, the thought of eating every meal alone and perhaps the greatest fear of all - the fear of loneliness.

What many people forget is that solo travel has many upsides.

Not only can you have the holiday that suits you - no compromising on hotels, or restaurants, or anything at all - in many ways, it’s actually less stressful than travelling with someone else.

Yes, travelling by yourself is daunting if you’ve never done it before - but don’t let that stop you.

Make it your perfect trip Let’s face facts: not every trip is suitable for solo travellers.

Once you’ve selected your destination, don’t limit yourself to the big-ticket attractions. Explore the stuff that appeals to you.

Maybe you want to visit every model train store in Barcelona, or every

graveyard in Paris, or try out every gelato store in Rome.

Go right ahead - it’s your holiday.

Know what you’re doing The one time that travelling solo is a downer is when things go wrong.

Before you head off, research everything - that’s what the internet is for. Book your hotels in advance, so you’re not trudging through the twilight looking for somewhere that doesn’t blow your budget. Know whether the cabbie should have the meter on, or roughly what the fare should be.

Arrive half an hour early for every train, plane or boat ride. When you’re not sweating the small stuff, you can concentrate on the things that are actually fun.

Once you arrive, try to get your bearings as soon as possible.

Do some meal planning One thing that seems to challenge people more than any other is dining on your own. If you’re one of the many people daunted by this prospect, start thinking about creative ways to cope.

If you’re putting all your energy inward, you’ll miss out on all sorts of opportunities. Try to spend some time gazing around the room, checking out other diners or just reflecting on what you’ve experienced that day. It’s a technique that makes you much more approachable - you would be surprised how often people at the next table will strike up a spontaneous conversation, or even invite

you to join them.

Here are two golden rules for solo dining. One, don’t let the waiters stick you in the dark corner table just because you’re by yourself.

Second, if you’re desperate for social interaction and have a bit of spare cash, book for dinner at the poshest restaurant you can afford. The more expensive the restaurant, the more the staff will look after you.

It can be a real pick-meup if you’re having a lonely moment.

Keep to your comfort zone...

The more fun you’re having, the less time you’ll spend thinking about the fact that there’s no one to share it with. So avoid things that stress you, and go for the things you love, particularly if it’s your first time by yourself.

If you get flustered by foreign languages, choose a destination with lots of English speakers. If you get distressed by poverty, stick with developed countries. If any day in the mountains is a good day, choose a range - the Alps or the Andes - and off you go.

. . . But step outside it at least once That said, it’s the challenges you overcome that will remain with you long after your holiday is over.

Schedule at least one activity that seems a bit daunting - whether it’s a no-holds-barred hamam (Turkish bath) experience in Istanbul or a canopy walk in the Malaysian jungle.

You may get butterflies

(Continued next page) TURBULENCE NOVEMBER 2014 | 25

SEAN’s

TRAVEL TIPS

beforehand but I promise, it will be one of the highlights of the trip.

with dinner, a few emails or a few pages of your book, and you’ll be ready for bed.

LEARN YOUR LINES

Be alert, not alarmed

Learning some key phrases in the local language is always a good idea.

You know which tourists get hassled the most? The ones who look uncertain and lost.

If you’re looking calm and confident, you’ll generally be left alone. Common sense will take you a long way.

Share the experience One of the joys of travelling with others is that you will always have someone to reminisce with. That doesn’t happen when you’re by yourself, so take plenty of shots to remind yourself of trip highlights.

Having said that, however, don’t get caught in the trap of trying to capture everything on social media.

Enjoy being in the moment.

Pack smart By which it means pack light. You’re going to be dragging your bag around by yourself: why make it harder than it needs to be?

If you do need to pack bulky items such as winter gear, consider taking two small bags instead of one larger one.

Get going early Even if you’re usually a night owl, consider resetting your body clock.

Chances are you won’t feel like staying out all night drinking or dancing by yourself. Instead, start the day early, with a prebreakfast walk: watching a city wake up is always fascinating.

By the time you have returned to the hotel and had breakfast, the attractions will be opening.

Finish your day of exploring 26 | TURBULENCE NOVEMBER 2014

Stay calm - just retrace your steps and you’ll be fine.

Give yourself a break If you’re worried about spending too much time on your own, consider adding walking tours to your itinerary. They give you expert insight into a destination, and provide a couple of hours’ conversation with interesting people. It will brighten up your day.

To Tip or Not To Tip When Travelling Working out how much to tip can be like navigating a minefield when you’re visiting a foreign country.

Here’s a quick overview of how much to tip for services at restaurants and hotels around the world.

Mediterranean countries In most of these countries, restaurant patrons pay a tip of about 10 per cent of the bill. In Spain, Italy and Greece, however, it’s customary first to pay the exact amount of the bill,

then make a separate gift.

Carmen Frentu of the Spanish Tourism Office advises, “Leave the tip in the bill cover on the table or hand it directly to the waiter.”

In Turkey, if you pay with a credit card, it’s best to pay the tip in cash. If paying a bill in cash, especially in smaller restaurants, it’s acceptable to round up the bill.

“Ustu kalsin” - keep the rest - is the term you’ll hear people say while settling up their restaurant bill in Turkey.

France Despite what some guidebooks claim, tips of 10 per cent for wait staff aren’t customary, the travel authority Atout France notes. The French usually only give a very small tip.

Northern Europe In Germany and the Alpine countries like Switzerland and Austria, people top up the sum by between 5 and 10 per cent to a round figure, but withhold a tip to the waiter if the service was substandard.

“Tips are a voluntary thankyou for good service,” says Christoph Lueck of the German Hotel and Restaurants Association.

If the bill is paid by credit card, leaving behind a cash tip on the table is acceptable.

Tips for food bought at a counter are uncommon. A small tip in cash is always advisable for the hotel porter bringing your luggage to your room.

Scandinavia People are more restrained about tipping in this region.

As Pia de Grahl of Visit Denmark notes, service isn’t singled out for an extra reward, saying, “Even the smallest tip is a show of satisfaction, but no tip is not taken as a sign of dissatisfaction.”

Sabine Klautzsch of Visit Sweden says that as a rule, the Swedes leave little or no tip. Guests might occasionally round up a restaurant bill, or leave some small change at the bar.

Arab region In Egypt and Tunisia, you can’t go wrong with a tip of 10 per cent. But as Mohamed Desouky of Egypt Travel notes, if the entire amount plus 10 per cent is paid by credit card, then the waiter doesn’t see the money, but rather the restaurant owner.

As Andrea Philippi of the Tunisian Tourism Office advises, it’s better to pay the tip separately afterwards.

USA In a country where service is highly regarded and waiters are relatively poorly paid, tips are higher than in the rest of the world, usually running at 15 to 20 per cent.

At the bar, the barkeeper gets about a dollar per drink, and the same sum goes to the hotel porter, per piece of luggage. For room cleaning personnel, $5 after three nights is an acceptable sum.

Planet of the Apps

Look out each month as we showcase the vintage, the new, the cool or the just downright quirky travel related apps out there in the market today. from HTH Worldwide mPassport is a worldwide, all-access pass to an exclusive level of care.

Use your mobile device to quickly and conveniently connect to quality care across the globe for anything from emergency needs, to filling a simple prescription, to translating your symptoms, to finding the right doctor at home or abroad.

With a few simple taps, get detailed profiles of carefully selected primary care physicians and specialists, as well as a broad range of hospitals, pharmacies, even dentists where you are, when you need it. Review qualifications, make an appointment, and get directions, right from the app on your mobile device.

FEATURES

GET STARTED

- Search providers for medical, dental, or mental health care and map them using GPS technology**.

- Request an appointment with a trusted HTH Worldwide provider.

- Arrange direct billing* for future appointments to secure cashless access to care.

- Access Guarantees of Payment to view and share with others including doctors and hospitals.

- File a claim either by entering information in the app or by sending a photo of a completed form.

- Find a medication’s availability, generic name, and local brand name.

- Translate medical terms and phrases for many symptoms and situations and use the audio feature to play the translation.

Register online via the mPassport website.

There is an annual subscription fee. Once subscribed download the app and login using your registration details.

GET CONNECTED Using the app does not require an Internet connection; however, using GPS for mapping**, scheduling an appointment, or downloading an audio translation, requires a connection.

Available now from the Google Play, iTunes and Amazon.

Direct payment is available only to HTH Insured members. ** Kindle device does not support mapping options.

TURBULENCE NOVEMBER 2014 | 27

Have card, will travel These days, we have heaps of choices when it comes to Travel Cards, but are they all the same? Absolutely not.

Let’s look through numbers of the most widely used Travel cards and came up with some tips that might save you some money.

Prepaid Travel Cards have different features and fees, but the most important thing when choosing a card is considering how it will be used. It takes a while to go through each Travel Card in detail, so here are some of our picks based on different situations.

For the frequent traveller: Look for a Travel Card that lets you load different currencies onto the one card.

Mastercard and Commonwealth offer the biggest range of currencies.

However, ANZ, NAB and Ozforex aren’t too far off the pace. Be aware of the ATM fees if you withdraw cash often. NAB, Travelex and Mastercard have the lowest ATM fees.

Our verdict: Mastercard MultiCurrency Cash Passport

Single Trip: If you plan on buying a travel card for a specific holiday, make sure you find out the set up and closure fees.

The Australia Post Load and Go and Virgin Global Wallet both have $0 set up fees. But, the Global Wallet is only available to Virgin Frequent Flyer members.

Recently ANZ and NAB offered to waive the set up fee, so keep up to date with any special promotions. Some cards also charge you a percentage of your initial load.

Most cards have a closure fee between $10 - $15. Cards without a closure fee usually have an inactivity fee which will slowly eat away at any balance left on it.

Our verdict: ANZ Travel Card

Hey big spender: Travel cards aren’t just for a quick holiday -- they’re for online shopping as well. If you are spending big on the card, make sure you check the currency conversion rate and any reload fee.

A small currency conversion rate difference can cost you big over time.

When spending large amounts it’s the most important fee/charge you want to get right.

Our verdict: Ozforex Travel Card $0 purchase fee. Click here to apply.

28 | TURBULENCE NOVEMBER 2014

All the fees and features quoted are indicative and are subject to change. We will keep the information as much as possible however, make sure you read the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) of any Travel Card before purchase.

Reference: https://www.thecurrencyshop.com.au/how-to-compare-travel-cards/travel-card-fees-and-features

TURBULENCE NOVEMBER 2014 | 29

Cosmetic Tourism under the Microscope The Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) has re-issued warnings of the risks of cosmetic tourism following the death of a British woman undergoing a procedure in Thailand last week.

The woman, reportedly died during a corrective procedure performed by an allegedly “uncertified surgeon” after her surgery at the same Bangkok clinic weeks earlier, ASPS said in a statement.

ASPS president Dr Tony Kane said it is “extremely concerning” that some perceive cosmetic surgery as “less serious” than other forms of surgery.

“Most people would never consider combining any other type of surgery with an overseas holiday,” he said.

“The reality is that cosmetic surgery is invasive and carries the same risk as any other surgery and must be taken seriously.”

Addressing the rise in ‘cosmetic tourism packages’, Dr Kane said that while it may appear cheaper to undergo the same procedure overseas than in Australia, as well as many lured into thinking the time spent overseas could double as a holiday break, he warns “many patients suffer complications requiring corrective surgery” upon returning to Australia.

Furthermore, patients should be aware that in most cases their travel insurance would not cover complications arising from elected surgery, with each provider having different policies surrounding ‘cosmetic tourism’ holidays.

“This means patients will end up paying more than if they had, upfront, chosen a qualified 30 | TURBULENCE NOVEMBER 2014

Specialist Plastic Surgeon in Australia,” Dr Kane said.

“If, despite all the possible risks, the choice is to go overseas for a procedure, all patients should check that the staff, equipment and continuum of care is at least equal to what you would receive in Australia and that the medical practitioner has an internationally recognised and accredited surgical qualification” “At the very least, you must insist on at least one face to face consultation with the practitioner before the surgery so you can ask all your questions about the procedure,

“Most people would never consider combining any other type of surgery with an overseas holiday” the surgeon’s qualifications and training and that of the anaesthetist and other medical staff involved. Also be fully satisfied that any devices and products used in the procedure meet Australian standards. You also need the details of all follow up care and management of complications,” he said.

Dr Kane warned that having multiple procedures over a short space of time and then almost immediately travelling on a long flight back to Australia “is extremely risky”.

The Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons urges travellers considering overseas cosmetic procedures to first visit its website which provides a comprehensive cosmetic tourism checklist, ‘Buyer Beware: Cosmetic Tourism’

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To the POINT

Loyalty program news and updates VIRGIN AUSTRALIA – 15% BONUS ON CREDIT CARD FREQUENT FLYER POINTS Virgin Australia is dishing out 15% more Velocity Frequent Flyer points on credit card transfers this month, which could take you to your next free flight or business class upgrade even sooner than you thought.

The deal gets even sweeter if you’re sitting on a solid pile of credit card points – transfer them to Velocity now and you’ll earn that 15% bonus on the lot.

But not every bank is on board – it’s available only with American Express Membership Rewards, ANZ, Westpac, St. George, Bank of Melbourne and Bank SA. Absent from the list are Citibank, Diners Club, the Commonwealth Bank and Suncorp, although these card issuers were part of a similar 10% bonus points deal that ran in May. Also excluded are directearning credit cards such as the free American Express Velocity Escape card and the Virgin Money Velocity High Flyer Card,

unless an accountholder has been personally invited to participate in a similar promotion.

If your credit card is one of the Chosen Ones, here’s what you’ll earn with the 15% bonus on points transferred to Velocity until November 30: AMEX Membership Rewards Ascent and Ascent Premium 1 MR point = 1.15 Velocity points AMEX Membership Rewards Business Ascent 3 MR points = 2.3 Velocity points ANZ Rewards and Business One Rewards 2.25 Rewards points = 1.15 Velocity points David Jones American Express 2 David Jones points = 1.15 Velocity points St. George, Bank of Melbourne and Bank SA 2 Amplify points = 1.15 Velocity points Westpac Altitude 2 Altitude points = 1.15 Velocity points

EUROPCAR & HERTZ CAR HIRE PERKS FOR VELOCITY GOLD CARD HOLDERS As a reward for countless hours of sitting in economy – or even just a few nice trips in business class – you can now choose between Europcar Privilege Executive status or an impressively-worded Hertz Gold Plus Rewards Five Star card.

Both programs provide car type upgrades, priority assistance and rewards in return for your ongoing loyalty, but which is the best deal for business travellers?

So, which is the better deal?

Although Europcar’s scheme doesn’t incorporate earning points as you’ll find with Hertz, the Privilege free weekend rental benefits really pack a punch. Let’s assume that you hire a car 10 times a year and pay A$100 a pop. With Hertz, that gets you roughly 877 Rewards Points, yet a free rental across the full weekend costs 2,000 Rewards Points.

Through Europcar, the same rentals would net you that free driving weekend – and if at least three of your hires are for personal use, that becomes another free weekend. With a more generous two-year membership assessment period and discounts at Accor’s major business hotels, gearing towards Europcar Privilege Executive is a real no-brainer.

For the icing on the cake, Virgin Australia frequent flyers hiring with Europcar on all corporate rates earn two Velocity points per Aussie dollar on time and kilometre charges within Australia and New Zealand, and a flat 400 Velocity points per rental in all other countries.

Corporate bookings made with Hertz, on the other hand, may or may not earn Velocity points at all – or where points are earned, the rate could be significantly reduced – again shunting Europcar even further into the lead for pointshungry high flyers.

So unless your corporate travel policy already has you locked in with Hertz, put a Europcar Privilege Executive card in your wallet and you’ll never look back.

HILTON HHONORS TRULY OPENS DOORS: MOBILE ROOM KEYS TO BE ROLLED OUT ACROSS HUNDREDS OF U.S. HOTELS IN 2015 Hilton Worldwide is opening more doors for its guests through the scaled deployment of its latest innovation: mobile-enabled room key. Beginning in late spring of 2015, Hilton HHonors members staying at U.S. properties of the Hilton Hotels & Resorts, Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts, Conrad Hotels & Resorts and Canopy by Hilton brands, can simply and securely use their smartphones to access their rooms. In July, Hilton Worldwide debuted digital check-in with room selection 32 | TURBULENCE NOVEMBER 2014

technology, now available at more than 3,700 hotels, and worldwide by the end of this year. This technology enables Hilton HHonors members to check in via their HHonors profile on desktop, mobile or tablet and choose the exact location of their room - right down to the room number. Mobile-enabled room key goes a step further in simplifying the guests’ journey, allowing travelers to check-in, choose their room and access their room upon arrival entirely via the HHonors app on their smartphone.

“The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.”

Lao Tzu

EMIRATES SKYWARDS & STARWOOD SPG PARTNER FOR POINTS AND PERKS Elite members of Emirates Skywards and Starwood Preferred Guest (SPG) will be able to earn points as they sleep both on the ground and at 35,000 feet, and can soon enjoy reciprocal status benefits when jetting abroad with Emirates and staying with Starwood.

Your World Rewards kicks off on November 19, at which time travellers can link their Skywards and SPG accounts to double-up on points and perks.

“The focus of Your World Rewards is to encourage Skywards members to stay at Starwood hotels, and to encourage Starwood SPG members to fly with Emirates,” said Emirates Skywards’ Senior Vice President Brian La Belle.

“This is a unique proposition in the travel industry typically, you have to choose miles or you choose hotel points, but this gives you both.”

At its heart, the deal covers journeys taken with Emirates on EK flight numbers – not when booked as Qantas codeshares – and is unique to Skywards members, rather than those travelling with their Qantas Frequent Flyer number attached to the reservation.

There also aren’t any benefits for travellers touting

base-level Blue status with Emirates Skywards and ‘Preferred’ status with SPG, so if you’re not already a frequent guest of Emirates or Starwood, this doesn’t apply to you.

Perks for Emirates Skywards members with Starwood Whenever staying with Starwood around the globe at brands such as Westin, W Hotels and Sheraton, Skywards Silver, Gold and Platinum members can earn one Skywards mile per US dollar spent at the hotel, or the equivalent in its local currency.

That’s on top of the regular Starpoints you’d earn, making it a similar arrangement to the ‘Points and Miles’ earning option in the competing Hilton HHonors scheme.

At the higher Gold and Platinum tiers, Skywards members will also enjoy SPG elite check-in, a 4pm late check-out wherever available and free in-room Internet access.

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Perks for SPG members flying with Emirates In a similar fashion, Starwood Gold and Platinum members will earn one Starpoint per US dollar spent on their airfare when travelling with Emirates, in addition to the Skywards miles they’d normally earn.

Platinum SPG members also pick up priority checkin and priority boarding at airports across the globe, although not lounge access unless they also hold Gold or Platinum status with Skywards.

Where members already receive free ‘Net by way of their SPG membership, they’ll instead be given a different reward – such as 250 bonus Starpoints.

Members of both programs simply need to link their accounts online to ensure that everything is handled smoothly, with Starwood members not required to present their SPG card at the airport.

Westin Dubai and Le Meridien Mina Seyah aren’t part of the new tie-up, although Starwood still has you covered with 14 other participating hotels in Emirates’ global Dubai hub.

Benefits given to SPG Platinum members will instead be linked to their regular Skywards account, which makes things easy when you’re juggling bags and boarding passes.

For more information, here’s a two-minute video explaining the Emirates/ Starwood hook-up: New to Skywards and Starwood Preferred Guest?

If you’re a newcomer to Starwood Preferred Guest but have an Emirates Citibank World MasterCard, you’re in luck – SPG Gold status could be yours after just one night!

The fast-track is also open to holders of other World MasterCards including Commonwealth Bank Diamond Awards and Westpac Earth Black/ Altitude Black, making that status boost even easier to achieve.

Simply stay at any Starwood hotel in the Asia Pacific region through July 2015 and you’ll be catapulted to Starwood Preferred Guest Gold status, delivering perks such as free room upgrades, late checkouts and in-room Internet access.

TURBULENCE NOVEMBER 2014 | 33

ROW 75

Articles of interest

‘Unplugged’ Trips Lead Travel Trends Travellers tired of being tied to the office even when on holiday are likely to seek “unplugged” trips in the future at hotels not offering phone signals or the internet.

Have You Gone Glamping?

Government research has shown that at least 85% of Australians have gone camping at some point in their life with women making up 48% of all visitors in the camping and caravanning sector.

A report titled ‘Real Richness’ found that campers to be happier, energised optimistic and more satisfied.

Glamping – glamorous camping – is an emerging trend in the Australian (and international) holiday sector that combines camping with the luxury of a five-star hotel experience.

Caravan Industry Association of Australia, CEO Stuart Lamont said, “Glamping is something that at first seems ridiculous – but it really is proof that opposites attract. Park owners are providing a service that they see the public want, and it is getting more popular every year.”

“It’s the sort of resort-style retreat that offers that little something different, and a wholesome experience people who went camping as children long to return to – without the composting toilets!”

SFO Launches ‘#Converge@flySFO’ San Francisco International Airport’s (SFO) has created a space dedicated to the exchange of ideas, where thought leaders, innovators, investors and travellers are encouraged to meet, greet, inspire and create. Titled the “#Converge@ flySFO,” space is designed to allow travellers to meet and exchange thoughts on technology, shared economies, and ideas that could make the world a better place.

San Francisco mayor Edwin M. Le said, “I am confident that SFO’s new #Converge@flySFO space will bring together great minds from around the world to collaborate and innovate on new ideas that will change the world.”

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“Unconnected” breaks are predicted in a futureof-travel report by Lonely Planet in partnership with the International Air Transport Association (IATA).

Another trend likely to emerge is a return to local knowledge with travellers’ hunger for secret coves and local trattorias emboldening them to rely once more on face-to-face recommendations.

Also in the future, there could be “international festival fever” with travellers taking advantage of faster and cheaper flights to go to events around the globe.

while airports will evolve to offer passengers such amenities as spas, art galleries and green areas.

Top of the list of predictions is that travel will soon become fully integrated into people’s lives, as opposed to being a special event.

Lonely Planet editorial director Tom Hall said: “Travel has changed dramatically since the first commercial flight 100 years ago, and the next 100 years has endless possibilities.”

IATA director general and chief executive Tony Tyler said: “The predictions clearly show that millions more people are set to enjoy the opportunity to travel and particularly travel by air, as the world becomes a smaller and more accessible place than ever before.”

Lonely Planet says travellers will increasingly use such aids as Google Streetview to see exactly what their intended resort looks like, The 850-square-foot facility is a free, open space furnished with tables, lounge-style chairs, power outlets, free Wi-Fi and a white board.

Individuals who would like to use the space are encouraged to promote their intended topic of interest, date, and time on their personal social media channels using the hashtag #Converge, and where possible tagging @flySFO. #Converge@flySFO is located in the International Terminal at Boarding Area G, on Level 3 near Gate G93.

For more information click here

“Perhaps travel cannot prevent bigotry, but by demonstrating that all people cry, laugh, eat, worry and die, it can introduce the idea that if we try and understand each other, we may even become friends.”

Maya Angelou

Japan Lifts ‘No Dancing’ Ban We Didn’t Know Existed For the past four years, dancing in clubs or bars in Japan has been strictly prohibited by laws, but authorities are set to change their tune following Tokyo’s win to host the 2020’s Olympic Games and the expected tourism boost that’s likely to follow.

The no-dancing law, called fueiho in Japanese, as reported by vice, said the Japanese government gave its final stamp of approval to lift the ban yesterday in light of tourists expecting to fill Tokyo’s nightlife districts during the Games.

The changes, will now allow for a new category of clubs allowing visitors to ‘dance all night’, but must have better lighting to curb unwanted behaviour, which is why the ban was enforced in the first place following the death of a student outside an Osaka nightclub in 2010.

“Visitors from overseas would come here to Japan and they’d wonder why they can’t dance, even though you can dance at night anywhere overseas,” Kenji Kosaka, a member of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party told Reuters, as reported by vice.

“The biggest thing that will change in this law is that you can now dance at night.”

‘Bleisure’ Trips the New Black for Business According to a recent research, 2 in 5 Aussie business travellers are opting to add a few extra days of leisure to their work trips, creating the ‘bleisure trip’.

The survey shows while many people consider business travel to be a major perk when signing up to a new job, more than 1 in 2 corporate travellers find it unenjoyable.

The survey also reveals that the business travel sector in Australia remains healthy, with more than a quarter of respondents indicating they book 10 – 18 nights of travel every month for their organisation, and more than half book 1 – 9 nights of travel monthly.

It was discovered that organisation will use strategic scheduling for meetings to avoid overnight stays (67%), the use of online hotel sites (47%) and joining loyalty programs (15%) to bring their organisations’ corporate travel costs down.

Many Australian businesses could be saving much more by using loyalty programs to their advantage. With loyalty programs, businesses could be earning up to one or two free nights of accommodation per month depending on how much travel the traveller are booking – saving businesses hundreds to thousands of dollars.

Fresh Warnings Issued Amid Rise in Travel Scams The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission have issued new warnings for consumers to watch out for travel scams amid a surge in complaints reported this year.

ACCC reports 1650 complaints about travel scams have already been lodged this year, with around $100,000 reportedly lost through fraudulent trade, mostly conducted over the phone.

According to the commission, many complainants were offered holiday vouchers to the tune of $2000 or $3000, while others were sold fake holidays to the Bahamas or Florida including tickets to theme parks or cruises at discounted prices.

“While you are making plans for a hard-earned break, scammers are plotting to steal your hard-earned dollars,” ACCC deputy chair, Delia Rickard said.

The ACCC warns scammers could be privy to holiday searches made online, highlighting the source as a potential target.

“Watch out for these fraudsters cold calling and announcing that you’ve won

a travel prize, ranging from discount accommodation vouchers to whole holiday packages. To redeem the prize, you will be asked to provide personal information such as your credit card and drivers’ licence details before they can send it to you,” Rickard said.

“Sometimes scammers will provide authentic-looking tickets and itineraries but when it comes time to travel, these documents are useless and the business cannot be contacted.”

The alert comes after scammers were reportedly found to be using fraudulent phone messages from Qantas and Virgin advising targets they had won a travel prize or credit points toward holidays, but before doing so must hand over credit card details.

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UPDATES & NEWS DIRECT FLIGHTS BETWEEN DARWIN AND ALICE SPRINGS ARE ON THE WAY Virgin Australia is dialling it up at Australia’s top end, with its Darwin Airport lounge set to open in March along with the start of direct flights between Darwin and Alice Springs.

There will be three flights a week between the two cities, using Virgin’s Boeing 737 jets, starting by the end of March.

The current sole airline on that route is Qantas’ regional arm QantasLink, which runs twice-daily flights but on smaller aircraft.

“We recognise the importance of the Northern Territory as a key business and tourism destination in Australia and look forward to increasing competition on these key routes to the benefit of our customers from early next year” said Virgin Australia CEO John Borghetti.

Northern Territory Chief Minister Adam Giles said he believes that competition on the Darwin-Alice route will “creating choice on thisimportant route and hopefully driving down ticket prices for Territory passengers.”

$344 MILLION RAISED IN FIRST CORPORATE BOND ISSUE Virgin Australia has raised $US300 million ($344 million) from its first corporate bond issue to global investors as it seeks to shore up its balance sheet as it takes full control of loss-making budget airline Tigerair.

In a deal completed overnight, the sale of the unsecured notes to investors primarily in the US was priced at a coupon rate of 8.5 per cent, which was equivalent to 6.86 per cent above US Treasury bonds.

Similarly rated American Airlines’ bonds which sold in September are trading at about 5.5 per cent, signifying the premium Virgin has paid to debut in the market.

Australia’s second-largest airline tapped capital markets in the US in October last year in a $770 million financing deal whereby it used 24 aircraft as security. In contrast, Virgin’s first public issue was unsecured.

Virgin chief financial officer Sankar Narayan and his team have been on an international roadshow for the last week, visiting institutional investors in New York, London, Hong Kong and Singapore.

Virgin will take on liabilities from the loss-making Tigerair Australia after it agreed last month to buy the 40 per cent stake in the budget airline that it does not already own for $1.

While the bond issue gives the airline another source of funding, analysts say it highlights the intense competition Virgin faces in the domestic market and weak consumer demand.

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TRIALLING: IN-LOUNGE BUSINESS CLASS UPGRADES ON SAVER FARES Virgin Australia will soon allow travellers to swap their frequent flyer points for an upgrade to business class when booked on Saver-level economy fares, with a trial kicking off later this month.

Passengers at the airline’s lounges in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth and the Gold Coast from November 24 through to Friday December 19 are all in with a shot – which includes all Velocity Gold and Platinum flyers, paid-up lounge members, and any guests of the above.

However, there are a few hoops to jump through before 1A lands on your boarding pass… here’s what you need to know.

Upgrading to business class during the trial If you’re flying during the dates above and have booked a Saver fare, you’ll be able to request an upgrade between three hours and 40 minutes before your flight’s scheduled departure.

Upgrades aren’t guaranteed – there needs to be a frequent flyer award seat available on your chosen flight, and full catering may not be available when you’ve been bumped up at the last minute.

Only five lounges are participating in the trial, so

if you’re visiting the lounges in other cities such as Cairns and Adelaide, or are flying out of airports that don’t have a Virgin Australia lounge, last-minute upgrades won’t be available to you.

Of course, you can always call Virgin Australia at least three hours prior to takeoff to request a business class upgrade from a Saver fare, while travellers booked on the more expensive Flexi fares can continue to upgrade in all of the Virgin Australia lounges.

Business class upgrades: the fine print To swap your Velocity points for a business class upgrade in the lounge, you’ll need to be travelling on a Virgin Australia flight with a VA flight number, and you must also have booked the journey through VA rather than one of its partner airlines.

Reservations made via other carriers such as Air New Zealand or Etihad don’t qualify, in which case you’ll be stuck in economy.

The cheapest Saver Lite fares also aren’t eligible for points upgrades, regardless of how the booking was made.

Finally, the four free upgrade certificates given to Velocity Platinum members each year continue to be valid only on Flexi fares – not Saver or Saver Lite tickets.

SEAN SIMMONS TRAVEL SPORTS EVENTS CALENDAR 2015 Jan 4-26 Jan 17-Feb 8 Jan 19-Feb 1 Jan 21-Feb 8 Feb 1 Feb 2-15 Feb 3-8 Feb 4-14 Feb 18-22 Apr 6-12 Apr 11 May 2 May 9-16?

May 24 - June 7 May 30 June 6 Jun 6-Jul 5 June 12-28 Jun 18-21 Jun Jun 29-Jul 12 July 3-14 July 4-26 Jul 10-26 Jul 16–19 July 17 - Aug 2 July 25-Aug 2 Aug 7-16 Aug 7-14 Aug 13-16 Aug 22-30 Aug-Sep Aug-Sep Sep 5-12 Sep 18-Oct 31 Sep 27 (TBC) Sep Oct 1-11 Oct 2-11 Oct 23-Nov 1 Nov 3

Football (Soccer) Football (Soccer) Tennis Multi-sports Gridiron/Football Skiing Field Hockey Multi-sports Cycling Golf Horse Racing Horse Racing Multi-sports Tennis Football (Soccer) Football (Soccer) Football (Soccer) Multi-sports Golf Basketball Tennis Multi-sports Cycling Multi-sports Golf Swimming Multi-sports Netball Multi-sports Golf Athletics Multi-sports Tennis Multi-Sports Rugby AFL Cycling Multi-sports Multi-sports Gymnastics Horse Racing

Asian Cup African Cup of Nations Australia Open World Masters Games (Winter) Super Bowl World Championships FIH Indoor World Cup Winter Universiade World Track Championships Masters Grand National Kentucky Derby Arafura Games French Open FA Cup final UEFA Champions League final Women’s World Cup European Games US Open NBA Finals Wimbledon Summer Universiade Tour de France Pan American Games British Open World Swimming Champs Special Olympics World Summer Games World Championships Parapan American Games US PGA World Championships All Africa Games US Open Commonwealth Youth Games World Cup Grand Final Road World Championships European Masters Games 6th CISM Summer Military World Games world championships (artistic) Melbourne Cup

Australia Morocco Melbourne Quebec City, Canada Arizona Vail/Beaver Creek, CO, USA Germany Granada, Spain TBA Augusta, USA Aintree Racecourse in Liverpool Louisville, Kentucky, US Darwin, Australia (not confirmed) Paris, France Wembley Stadium, London Olympiastadion in Berlin, Germany Canada Baku, Azerbaijan University Place, Wshington, USA USA/Canada London, England Gwangju, South Korea France 2015 Toronto Old Course, St Andrews, Scotland Kazan, Russia Los Angeles, California Sydney Toronto Whistling Straits, Wisconsin Beijing National Stadium, Beijing China.

Brazzaville, Republic of the Congo New York Apia, Samoa England Melbourne, Australia Richmond, USA Nice, France Mungyeong, South Korea Glasgow, UK Victoria, Australia TURBULENCE NOVEMBER 2014 | 37