Selling Travel July-August 2016

JULY/AUGUST 2016 • SELLINGTRAVEL.CO.UK

TRAVEL TRADE PUBLICATION OF THE YEAR

WILD BUNCH Penguins, seals, killer whales and dolphins – get back to nature in the Falkland Islands

how to sell...

Fiji Dubai Maldives Asian Spas Spanish Islands Canada Special Focus and more...

Plus programmes, incentives, competitions and prizes from our online training partner

contents

this issue - we travel further to bring you more FEATURES 8 Asian Spas: Classic Oriental

Steve Thompson flew...

to the Spanish city of Marbella where he sampled the highlights and enjoyed its top restaurants and trendy bars

wellness options

19 The Gambia: The Smiling Coast's back-to-nature appeal

29 Dubai: World-class short breaks and stopovers

33 Ecuador & Galapagos: A diverse mainland and bucket

60

list islands

64

42 Maldives: Indian Ocean luxury 49 Fiji: More than just a stopover 56 European winter sports: More

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to Thailand, visiting Phi-Phi island to meet the elephants as well as staying in some of the Phuket's finest hotels

8 29 42

33

than just skiing

Lisa Merrigan went...

56 14

46

49

Andy Hoskins is..

58

in Denver experiencing some of the sights and sounds of Colorado's capital city on the high plains

52

60 Spanish Islands: Culture and adventure aplenty

QUICK READS 14 Country Profile: Hungary 41 Company Profile: Titan 46 Regional Profile: North Tahoe 52 How to Sell: Falkland Islands 58 How to Sell: Argentina 64 Caribbean Focus: St. Kitts 82 The Final Word THE REVIEW 35 Top news stories, show reports from IPW in New Orleans and a review of JA Resort's Ocean

FIJI

A S I A N S PA S

49

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S P A N I S H I S LA N D S

60

View in Dubai and K West Hotel & Spa, London CA N A DA SPECIAL

TALKING SHOP 23 Agent news, incentives & fam

65

reports from Alberta, Puerto Rico and Western Australia, plus the latest news from our training partner TravelUni

CANADA SPECIAL: 65 Catch up on the latest news from across Canada. Plus, a show report from Rendez-vous Canada and features on Aboriginal tourism and

Please note that Selling Travel, owned and published by BMI Publishing Ltd., is not connected in any way to Selling Travel e-magazine published by SMP Training Co. and based in British Columbia, Canada. The latter online publication focuses exclusively on sales skills and all aspects of professional selling within the travel and tourism sectors.

To benefit from this travel industry sales training resource visit www.sellingtravel.net

shopping

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GAMBIA

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Travel Trade Publication of the Year

Proudly published by BMI Publishing Ltd 2016 © 2016.

Suffolk House, George St, Croydon, Surrey, CR9 1SR, UK T 020 8649 7233 | F 020 8649 7234 enquiries@bmipublishing.co.uk bmipublishing.co.uk sellingtravel.co.uk Publishers: Steve Thompson & Sally Parker Commercial Director: David Clare Editorial Director: Steve Hartridge Journalists: Andy Hoskins, Julie Baxter & Laura Gelder Junior Journalists: Ben Coren & Cameron Roberts Contributing Editors: Alan Orbell Jo Austin

Business Development Manager: Craig McQuinn Advertisement Manager: Lisa Merrigan Creative Director: Matt Bonner Designers: Louisa Horton & Ross Clifford Junior Designer: Zoë Tarrant Production Manager: Clare Hunter Circulation Manager: Cheryl Staniforth Managing Director: Martin Steady We are members of the Caribbean Tourism Organization, Visit USA Association, LATA, PATA, MENATA, SATOA, the Foreign Airlines Association and the Institute of Travel & Tourism.

Whilst every effort is made to ensure accuracy, BMI Publishing cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions.

ISSN: 2056-9319.

Cover image: iStockphoto.com

welcome – dedicated to those who love selling travel –

T

here’s no denying, it has been another rough couple of months for anyone in travel.

First, the Brexit vote immediately left sterling looking vulnerable and it lost no time in crashing, if not quite burning, against many ‘holiday currencies’.

One of those currencies was the U.S. dollar and most U.S. specialist tour operators I spoke to at the Visit USA Ball in early July said bookings were down or, at best, flat.

But the U.S. surely holds too much appeal, has too many diverse and appealing attractions in every one of its states and territories for a dwindling dollar return to prove decisive for the hundreds of thousands Steve Hartridge of ‘Yankophiles’ who make the U.S. their favourite long haul destination.

EDITOR The U.S, of course, has its own problems as it tackles with the novel but unwelcome development of regular acts of terrorism on its own soil.

Terrorism, of course, is now a global problem, with no country unaffected. But tourism is also a worldwide phenomenon and engaging with and embracing as many markets (or countries) around the world was very much the message being underlined at the recent IPW in New Orleans by both the U.S. Travel Association and Brand USA. As Roger Dow, the President and CEO of USTA told delegates who gathered in the Crescent City just a week after the shootings at an Orlando nightclub, the world is evermore complex – he could have said dangerous – but now is not the time to retreat out of fear.

To applause, Dow reasoned that we surely stand the best chance of increasing security for the majority when we are all engaged and connected and when travellers choose freedom over fear.

You can read our review of IPW on pages 38 and 39.

Elsewhere in this issue, look for our extended Canada section which includes a review of another trade show, Rendez-vous Canada.

Enjoy this issue!

SUBSCRIBE FOR FREE! sellingtravel.co.uk/subscribe

INDUSTRY COMMENTS...

“As well as promoting our niche products under our ‘Tenerife No Limits’ and ‘Tenerife Select’ brands, we will continue to work very closely with our trade partners to push both the niche and more mainstream products."

“Canada is rethinking the way it markets itself internationally and in establishing its USPs is beginning to see that Aboriginal tourism is a clear way to differentiate Canada from the rest of the world."

Richard Hume, UK Representative, Tenerife Tourism

Keith Henry, Chief Executive Officer, Aboriginal Tourism

Corporation. See feature, page 60

Association of Canada. See feature, page 72

sellingtravel.co.uk

6

events & festivals

reasons for seasons - events and experiences to shape a booking -

SCILLY ISLANDS' REGATTA The first Scilly Islands’ Regatta will take place August 26 – 29 this year on St Mary's. The family-friendly event will bring a flotilla of classic and traditional boats to the island. Celebrating the islands’ nautical history, the event will include a number of races, shows and ship experiences.Visitislesofscilly.com

FANTASY FEST Over 75,000 people travel to Key West, Florida to join in the festivities of Fantasy Fest. The festival includes street performances, parties, food tastings and a bevy of alcoholic vendors.

For artsy clients and ones who don’t mind getting their kit off and donning some body paint, Fantasy Fest is the place to be October 21 – 30, 2016. fantasyfest.com

LOPBURI MONKEY BANQUET

KRAMPUSNACHT FESTIVAL

North of Bangkok in the city of Lopburi, a strange feast occurs every November where over two tonnes of fruit, vegetables, rice and ice-cream is fed to over 3,000 macaques. Known as the Lopburi monkey banquet, the feast symbolises the respect and reverence the local populace has for these creatures. The next Lopburi monkey banquet takes place November 27, 2016 tourismthailand.org

Based around the mythical figure of Krampus, who kidnaps naughty children come Christmas-time, this festival is a boozy, fiery and fun affair. Every year in Klagenfurt, Austria, the town comes alive with swathes of people dressed as the fiery demon. The next festival begins November 2016. austria.info

NAVRATRI From October 1 – 10 this year, Navratri celebrates the Hindu goddess Durga, a deity which is prevalent in Western India.

Each day symbolises a different aspect of Durga, and is celebrated with a combination of cooking, dancing, singing and lantern lighting. Festival goers are also encouraged to burn effigies throughout the colourful event. navratriday.com

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8

wellness holidays in asia

mind and body

Some of the world’s oldest relaxation techniques and treatments originated in Asia, a region that remains a magnet for wellness breaks. Karl Cushing looks at some classic Oriental spa options

Pictured: Dusit Devarana Conghua, Guangzhou, China

sellingtravel.co.uk

wellness holidays in asia

E

ven falling asleep for about the tenth time and waking myself with a raggedy snore couldn’t detract from the refined relaxation offered by the massage I was enjoying at the Breezes Spa in the Amari Phuket.

The spa’s pleasantly elevated and isolated position amid mature trees at the end of Patong Bay offered a truly peaceful haven. Even with the treatment room’s open doors, with the sound of lapping waves drifting, and the refreshingly firm intensity of the Thai-style treatment being delivered by the diminutive masseuse, it was all I could do to keep my peepers open.

As I floated down the spa steps back into the resort proper, slowly rolling my unknotted shoulders, I resolved to revisit to check out some of its other locally-inspired temptations such as Thai Delight, a mango sticky rice body scrub.

Regional specialities From grabbing a traditional Thai- or Balinesestyle treatment in a resort to indulging in a rejuvenatory stay in an Ayurvedic resort in India or Sri Lanka, sampling the region’s spa and wellness offering is a highlight of any Asian break. High-end operators such as Vana in India and Sri Lanka and resorts such as Kamalaya Koh Samui in Thailand have earned enviable reputations for their indulgent wellness offerings.

Targeted programmes are increasingly popular. Take Thailand, where the sumptuous spa at Dhara Dhevi near Chiang Mai has added programmes covering women’s health,

back pain and weight management. ChivaSom in Hua Hin has added five new retreats addressing specific health conditions, including cranial relief for migraine sufferers.

Hot spring resorts are another speciality and a highlight of any visit to Korea or Japan, home of the traditional ‘onsen’. Other good examples include Villa 32 in Beitou, Taiwan and the recently opened Dusit Devarana Hot Springs and Spa Conghua in Guangzhou, China.

A personal favourite is Banjaran Hotsprings near Ipoh, Malaysia, a 25-villa resort backed by a network of jungle-flanked geothermal pools plus a spa with 15 treatment rooms.

‘Newer destinations’ getting in on the spa act include Vietnam, whose wellness offering has come a long way since Fusion Maia opened its doors on Danang’s My Khe Beach in 2010, stirring things up with its ‘spa-inclusive’ packages incorporating daily treatments. High-end openings such as the Anantara Hoi An (2013) and Anantara Mui Ne (2012) have helped broaden the options.

“Vietnam is selling really well,” says Debbie Goffin, Head of Sales and Marketing at Premier Holidays, which has more than doubled its Vietnam sales for 2016.

“Agents should push this destination for clients who are looking for something a bit different to the usual Asian destinations.”

Already home to the delightful Song Saa resort, Cambodia is coming of age after Akaryn Retreat and Alila’s Koh Russey opened in June and July respectively.

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wellness holidays in asia

Perfect ten “Encourage customers to try treatments that are unique to the region they are visiting. I recently had a hot bamboo massage while in Vietnam and would highly recommend it” JESSICA LEE, FARAWAY RESERVATIONS CONSULTANT PREMIER HOLIDAYS

at Banyan Tree Club & Spa.

Rainforest retreat: Stay in a rainforest spa resort such as The Farm at San Benito (thefarmatsanbenito.com), Philippines, an eco-friendly classic near Manila offering everything from spa and golf to kids massage.

Blissful Bhutan: Follow in the Royal footsteps of William and Kate at high-end offerings such as Jiva spa at Taj Tashi or the COMO Shambhala Retreats at UMA Paro and Punakha (comohotels.com).

Head to Hua Hin: Escape the Bangkok bustle in nearby Hua Hin, home to treats such as Aleenta Hua Hin; Six Senses Hua Hin, with its Earth Spa, wellness specialist Chiva Som and the affordable Amari.

Food for thought: From milk showers to facial massages with hard boiled eggs, Chinese Peranakan Treatments, such as those offered by the Spa Village at Ritz-Carlton Kuala Lumpur, add memorable moments to Malaysia stays.

Spas with Seoul: Retreat from the hubbub of Korea’s capital with treatments at the Conrad or W, or drink in the lush mountain views from the treatment rooms

(banyantree.com/en/ap-korea-seoul)

Become a Japan fan: Contrast Japan’s traditional ‘onsen’ hot springs offering with a stay at a stunning modern property such as Aman Tokyo with its minimalist Aman Spa. (aman.com/resorts/aman-tokyo)

Go barmy for Bali: Head to Nihiwatu, where the Nihi Oka Spa Safari offers guests the opportunity to hike 90 minutes to its remote private clifftop treatment pavilions overlooking the sea. (nihiwatu.com) Embrace the waves: Few properties have such an enviable seaside spot as Bali’s Ayana Resort & Spa and itse Spa on the Rocks. (ayanaresort.com) Monkey around: In Japan’s Jigokudani Monkey Park in Nagano Prefecture you can check out the cheeky macaques enjoying an onsen before testing the waters yourself.

Scenic Singapore: The Banyan Tree Spa on the 55th floor at Marina Bay Sands offers treatments with views to die for, while ESPA’s outpost at Resorts World Sentosa offers 10,000 square metres of blissful rejuvenation.

NEW TERRACE SUITE ROOMS UNVEILED AT LAYANA RESORT & SPA Layana Resort and Spa is delighted to announce its new Terrace Suite rooms are now open to the public.

Sure to establish a new standard for splendour on the beautiful island of Koh Lanta, the two new suites are ready to offer a truly luxurious experience for Layana guests.

As well as breathtaking views and convenient pool access, the new suites feature additional highlights including a truly luxurious new take on fixtures and fittings, with ‘his & hers’ sinks, a separate rain shower and a large Jacuzzi bathtub set in a glass-walled bathroom.

The split-level suites both

occupy one elegantly-appointed building, with the upper floor offering sweeping views over the picturesque resort from the terrace and generous windows.

The ground floor room benefits from direct access to the relaxing Wellness Pool as well as a private patio area.

Welcome to a new level of luxury.

For reservations kindly call + 66(0) 7560 7100, or visit us online at www.layanaresort.com

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Favourably situated with direct access to the MBK shopping center and office complex, and only moments away from the city’s foremost entertainment and shopping options, Pathumwan Princess Hotel provides the perfect blend of convenient location, modern luxury and the unmistakable charm and elegance of traditional Thai style.

The graceful 455 guest rooms and suites of the

Pathumwan Princess Hotel offer panoramic vistas of the city’s iconic skyline, while its dining outlets provide epicurean delights that attract discerning diners from across the city. The Olympic Club’s 9,000 square metres fitness centre and the premium comforts available throughout the hotel provide stylish sanctuary from the bustle of the effervescent metropolis for travellers and business people alike.

444 MBK CENTER, PHAYATHAI ROAD, WANGMAI, PATHUMWAN, BANGKOK, 10330, THAILAND P +66 (0) 2216 3700 F +66 (0) 2216 3730 E ppb@pprincess.com

www.koreanair.com

Where dreams are made Korean Air A380 Everything you’ve ever wanted in an airline and more.

Our entertainment, delicious cuisine and attentive service will impress the most discerning passenger. Making your experience perfect is our commitment to you. *Disclaimer Korean Air reserves the right to substitute aircraft, product variant does not form part of any contract.

Reservation 0800 413 000 (UK) 00800-0656-2001 (UK & Ireland) Ticketing 020 7495 8641 (UK)

wellness holidays in asia

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Tourism talk

What’s new wellness market is also flying thanks to a flurry �Resorts: Paresa Resort Phuket’s (paresaresorts. of high-end openings. Top picks include Shangricom) spa has a new three-day yoga, wellness and La’s Hambantota Resort, (shangri-la.com); Anantara vitality retreat and the Anantara Layan Phuket Peace Haven Tangalle Resort & Spa; the inland Resort is one of the properties showcasing the Santani wellness resort in Kandy (santani.lk/); and Anantara Kalutara Resort, opening in August. group’s new wellness programme, ‘balance’.

In India Vana Also in Phuket, the Retreats has opened freshly-remodelled “I would recommend Spa its urban wellness Nai Harn (thenaiharn.com) launched its stylish Village Tembok in Bali, which is retreat, Therapiya, new spa in late May. in New Delhi. This completely designed around The Sarojin (sarojin. followed shortly after spa and wellness packages. com/en/) in Khao Lak the original Vana In Malaysia, Pangkor Laut’s Bath resort in Dehradun, has tweaked its House experience is not to luxurious ‘Spa Suite’ Uttarakhand opened offering to include a new centre be missed” daily, complimentary offering ‘Sowa Rigpa’ REBECCA TURNER, PRODUCT MANAGER ASIA GOLD MEDAL 60-minute massages.

Tibetan Healing (vanaretreats.com). Also Pathways Spa and new is SVATMA (svatma.in), a 38-room Layana Resort in Koh Lanta has opened a boutique offering in Tanjavur, Tamil Nadu. new wellness area and juice bar, Health.

Operators making waves in Indonesia include New to the Simply Luxury by Travel 2 Alila (alilahotels.com/seminyak; alilahotels.com/solo), with brochure this year is Rayavadee in Krabi, its Spa Alila concept. Last year it opened the which offers a wide range of treatments 240-guestroom Alila Seminyak on Bali’s south including its ‘Rayavadee Signature Massage’. west coast and Alila Solo near Surakarta on Java The Peninsula Bangkok’s (bangkok.peninsula. com).new wellness programme includes a royal In Malaysia, Datai Langkawi has introduced a range of new treatments based on Thai massage with herbal compress traditional Malay Ramuan practices.

Sri Lanka’s Six Senses Ninh Van Bay in Vietnam has opened its supersized Hilltop Reserve Villa sleeping ten (sixsenses.com).

Freshly-opened in China is the Kempinski Hotel Harbin (aman.com).

In Japan, Aman Resorts kempinski.com) is set to open Amanemu this spring, a wellness-focused property on the shores of Ago Bay in Shima city. sellingtravel.co.uk

”Thailand is well known for its spa and wellness products, particularly traditional Thai massage, a healing art which uses a combination of acupressure and yoga and dates back 2,500 years.

“From world-class spa sanctuaries, health retreats and yoga detox centres to massages on the beach from 200 baht (£4), Thailand offers a variety of health treatments throughout the country backed by beautiful beaches.

“Promoting Spa and Wellness is a strong focus for TAT fthis year, with statistics showing that typical wellness tourists spend more than 130% of the average tourist spend. “ In particular, we are focusing on encouraging female travellers to come to Thailand for spas and wellness.

“TAT also provides free massages during our Amazing Thailand Road Shows. The next events we have coming up are in Tunbridge Wells on September 21 and Guildford on September 22, where we’ll be offering an all-expenses paid FAM trip to Thailand with Thai Airways. To secure a place at the events email: marketing@tourismthailand.co.uk Emma Arnott, Marketing Executive, Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT)

Where to book it �ELEGANT RESORTS – 01244 897518

Seven nights’ full-board in an Ocean Room at Chiva-Som, Thailand, start from £4,575pp, departing November 21, and including flights from Heathrow with British Airways, private car transfers and UK lounge passes. elegantresorts.co.uk �SILVERSEA – O844 251 0837

A range of Wellness Expedition Voyages in 2017 on Silver Discoverer includes a 14-day Kolkata to Phuket cruise taking in Bangladesh and Myanmar, departing February 27. From £6,615. (silversea.com) 

Top: Alila Seminyak’s spa treatment suite. Above: Meditation at the Dhara Dhevi Chiang Mai. Previous page: Deluxe ocean view room at Anantara Kalutara

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country profile

Hungary - The heart of Europe Discover the Danube Suggest a Danube sightseeing cruise to admire Budapest from the water. Trips run daily, and dinner cruises are particularly spectacular as all the main buildings are lit up at night.

Tee time Hungarian golf courses are excellent and good value.

The nine-hole Academy Golf Budapest is closest to the capital while the 18-hole Pannonia Golf & Country Club is 40 minutes outside the city.

Hungarian horsemanship Watch daring displays of traditional horsemanship, including bareback riding, horseback archery and carriage driving at Lazar Horse Park, 20 miles outside of Budapest.

Cheers Grape growing in Hungary goes back hundreds of years and the country has 22 wine regions. Many vineyards are open for tours and tastings with the closest to Budapest are around Lake Balaton.

Make a splash Open from June to September, recommend families visit Aquarena, the largest water park in Central Europe. Eleven miles outside of Budapest, it has 21 slides, pools and a lazy river.

“Around 90% of all UK visitors make a beeline for the capital Budapest, which is always a highlight on river cruises along the Danube”

H

ungary is a nation that produced famous composers like Liszt and Bartok and the world’s most infuriating toy – the Rubik’s Cube.Today it still offers visitors a host of unique experiences combined with 1,000 years of history, says Jeannine Williamson It might be situated at the heart of Europe, but Hungary is very different from Austria, Croatia, Romania and the other four countries that line its borders. Even its language is completely dissimilar from its neighbours. Lying outside the Eurozone also makes it very attractive on a practical front, and for two years running the annual Post Office Money Survey listed Budapest as the most affordable city break destination.

Around 90% of all UK visitors make a beeline for the capital Budapest, which is always a highlight on river cruises along the Danube. With a flight time of two hours and 20 minutes from London and services from many regional airports, it’s ideal for a weekend away or starting point for a twincentre or touring holiday.

CAPITAL WONDERS Described as the ‘Pearl of the Danube,’ Budapest is one of the world’s most beautiful cities. Divided by the river into two distinct halves – Buda and Pest – the city is linked by a series of bridges.

The most historic is the landmark Chain Bridge, flanked by impressive statues of

Hevis spa

Festetics Palace

lions. It was built in the 19th century and became the first permanent link between the two banks.

The hilly UNESCO-listed Buda side is topped by the impressive Royal Palace, now home to several museums, along with charming cobbled streets lined with buildings dating back to medieval times.

The views from the top of Castle Hill are the best in town, and visitors can either walk up the zig-zag path or take the funicular railway.

On the flat and busier Pest bank there are grand sights such as the parliament buildings – modelled on Westminster palace – the opera house and statue-lined Heroes’ Square at the top of Andrassy Boulevard, the shopping street lined with designer names. Other attractions include the Great Market, next to Liberty Bridge, topped with distinctive Zsolnay tiles. The ground floor is filled with colourful stalls selling regional food and drink (such as paprika, cured meats and honey), and the upper level is a good spot to pick up souvenirs including embroidery, folk art and local crafts.

Also in Pest is the aptly-named House of

country profile

Terror, which pulls no punches in its sobering reminder of fascist and Stalinist regimes, and the simple but moving Shoes on the Danube memorial on the riverbank, just south of the Parliament building.

Installed in 2005, this features 60 pairs of castiron shoes representing thousands of Jews who were shot on the same spot in World War II.

AUTHENTIC BUDAPEST An excellent way to get around, and a tourist attraction in its own right, is the metro. The M1 yellow line is the oldest in the world after London and runs from the river to Heroes’ Square.

For a really authentic experience take the plunge at one of the many spas. Budapest has the highest number of hot thermal springs than any other city in the world. Szecheny is the largest and Gellert is noted for its fine architecture.

Lying 55 miles west of Budapest is Lake Balaton, the country’s second most popular destination. The 47-mile-long lake is central Europe’s largest freshwater lake and often described as the Hungarian Sea. Keszthely, the regional’s cultural capital, is the oldest settlement on the lake and boasts noble architecture including Festetics Palace and attractions such as the Marzipan Museum.

TASTE OF HUNGARY The landscape around Lake Balaton was shaped by volcanic activity and the effect can be seen in many of the hot springs bursting from the

Keszthely, Lake Balaton

Hungarian Parliament building

ground. The most picturesque legacy of this period can be found in the hot water lake created by a volcanic crater in the spa town of Heviz, four miles outside of Keszthely. During the summer the water is covered with thousands of water lilies.

Further afield, lesser-known areas of Hungary that can be explored on fly-drive itineraries include the Great Plain, Europe’s largest continuous grassland which is dotted with spa towns and populated by herds of cattle tended

by Hungarian cowboys.

The northern part of the country is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with miles of walking trails.

In the Matra mountains energetic travellers can scale Kekesteto, Hungary’s highest peak at 3,327ft. When it’s time to rest, clients will never go hungry in Hungary. Most meals begin with soup and the sour cherry version served in summer tastes surprisingly good.

For a real taste of the country recommend clients try the traditional goulash, which is more like a thick soup than a stew, with a glass of the famous red wine Bull’s Blood.

sellingtravel.co.uk

BOOK IT!

REGENT HOLIDAYS – 0207 7666 1294

A THREE - NIGHT B&B PACKAGE AT THE FOUR- STAR HOTEL PALAZZO ZICHY LEADS IN FROM £434PP, INCLUDING FLIGHTS. A SEVEN - NIGHT MUSIC AND WINE THEMED FLY- DRIVE IS FROM £1,040PP INCLUDING B&B ACCOMMODATION AT THE FIVE - STAR ARIA HOTEL BUDAPEST, VILLA VOLGY IN EGER AND FIVE - STAR ANDRASSY REZIDENCIA WINE & SPA HOTEL IN TARCAL. FLIGHTS AND CAR HIRE ARE INCLUDED. regent-holidays.co.uk

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VISIT USA NEWS JULY/AUGUST 2016

T H I S M O N T H ' S T O P S T O R I E S F R O M V I S I T U S A ' S M E M B E R S • V I S I T U S A .O R G .U K ATTRACTIONS

Kennedy's new Hall of Fame



Media Awards

Top U.S. writers recognised VISIT USA'S annual Media Awards took place in early July aboard the HQS Wellington, with Visit USA members mixing with journalists for an evening of awards and fabulous views of the Thames.

Media winners included Paul Wade and Kathy Arnold (known to the industry as ‘Team Wade’) who jointly landed the Visit USA 'Travel Writer of the Year' 2016 award for their huge portfolio of U.S.-themed articles. Aaron Millar was recognised for his piece on Winter in Yellowstone while Matt Munro and Marcel Theroux carried off the 'Best Photographic Feature' and 'Best Consumer Travel Magazine Feature' respectively for Appalachian Fall in Lonely Planet Traveller.

The event’s sponsors were the 'twin cities' of Dallas and Fort Worth, Texas. Guests were brought up to date on news of a brand-new Dallas Cowboys (NFL team) headquarters, ‘The Star’, which will offer a ‘behind the scenes’ experience. And Fort Worth is investing $200 million into its historic Stockyards, a perennial favourite among international visitors.

Pictured are: Jonathan Sloan, Visit USA Chair; Bob Jameson, CEO at Fort Worth CVB; Caroline Donaldson-Sinclair, Visit USA PR Committee Chair; and Mark Thompson, Vice President of Tourism Dallas CVB.

"It was great to see such a terrific turn out of Visit USA members and media for our night on the river. Our sponsors even brought along some Texan weather to help guarantee an exceptional evening" Jonathan Sloan Chairman, Visit USA

KENNEDY Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida will unveil its Heroes and Legends attraction on November 11. Guests will be introduced to NASA pioneers who made space exploration possible while interactive kiosks will tell the stories of 100 Hall of Fame astronauts.

KennedySpaceCenter.com HOTELS

Tucson property has facelift LOEWS Ventana Canyon Resort in Tucson, Arizona, has undergone a multi-million-dollar renovation that included a remastering of the guest rooms, lobby, fitness centre and Lakeside Spa. The property is surrounded by the Sonora desert. loewshotels.com CITIES

Atlanta provides the backdrop ATLANTA, Georgia, is in demand from movie-makers. Last year over 248 feature films were shot in the city, making it the third-most popular location for productions. Visitors can sign up for movie tours. atlanta.net

THE USA in brief...

AIRLINES DELTA Air Lines is to double its Scottish route network next summer when it begins flying between Glasgow and New York.

The service, which will begin on May 26, will be the only non-stop flight between Glasgow and New York-JFK and will operate daily – using a 164-seat Boeing 757200ER – throughout the summer months. The flight, will leave Glasgow at 13.00, arriving into New York at 15.40. In late May Delta started a service between Edinburgh and New York-JFK. delta.com



EVENT CITIES SEATTLE expects to break its cruise visitor record this summer with 960,000 starting or ending their cruise in the city.

The Washington city has become a popular gateway for cruises along Alaska's Inside Passage, which offers cruisers some of the most beautiful stretches of coastline in the USA and an array of wildlife that includes eagles, bears and whales. Direct flights from the UK to Seattle are offered by British Airways and Delta Air Lines. portseattle.org/Cruise; visitseattle.org

HOTELS EVENT THE 107-room boutique Michigan Indigo is finally welcoming guests six years after plans for its construction were first agreed.

Perched beside the city’s scenic Grandview Parkway, the four-story hotel features 100 standard guest rooms and seven suites, a lobby restaurant (the Warehouse Kitchen + Cork), a fitness centre, and two bars, including a rooftop bar that has stunning views of West Bay. Hotel Indigo is part of IHG (The Intercontinental Hotels Group). greatlakesusa.co.uk

Look out for our Visit USA Association online Travel Update for the pick of members' news



MEMBERS SPOTLIGHT introducing...

PAPILLON Group's Grand Canyon Scenic Airlines' popular Bar 10 Ranch tour this summer is designed for those who want to venture into a remoter part of the Grand Canyon.

Guests are picked up in Las Vegas via a shuttle service, which takes them to the Boulder City Aerocenter. From there they board an airplane for a bird’s-eye view of Hoover Dam, Lake Mead and the Colorado River.

Then the plane lands at Bar 10 Ranch (a working cattle ranch), where guests experience a guided ATV trek through Whitmore Canyon and Lake Mead National Recreation Area to reach a vantage point in Grand Canyon National Park.

Scenic.com 

UNITED Airlines is to increase the frequency of flights from Heathrow to both its San Francisco and Los Angeles hubs.

For winter 2016-17, the airline will operate a second daily Heathrow-San Francisco non-stop service, beginning October 30, 2016 (westbound).

For summer 2017, United will add a second daily Heathrow-Los Angeles flight, effective April 5, 2017 (westbound).

Both new flights will be serviced by a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner. united.com



Utah Tourism BETH HIGHAM JUNIOR PR ACCOUNT MANAGER UTAH OFFICE OF TOURISM

THEME PARKS

Walking Dead in Hollywood UNIVERSAL Studios Hollywood opened its newest attraction, The Walking Dead, on July 4, based on the top-rated television series and the most watched show in cable television history.

The California theme park has featured the ‘The Walking Dead’ as a signature Halloween Horror Nights maze for several years, but now offers the themed walk-through attraction 364 days of the year.

Guests come face-to-face with live and animatronic 'Walkers' and to ensure authenticity of the attraction Universal Studios Hollywood partnered with The Walking Dead’s creative team, including Greg Nicotero and KNB Efx, to develop prosthetics, utilize original moulds and painstakingly apply paint and detailing to attraction walkers.

"The Walking Dead’ is a phenomenon that has successfully and consistently affected the psyche of viewers on a global basis since its debut,” said Larry Kurzweil, President of Universal Studios Hollywood.

“We’ve taken its authenticity to the next level by creating a thrilling representation of the series unique to Universal Studios Hollywood.” universalstudioshollywood.com

KIMPTON MILWAUKEE

FESTIVALS

Palm Springs set to rock CALIFORNIA'S desert city, Palm Springs, is gearing up for a once-in-a-lifetime musical extravaganza.

To be held over two weekends (October 7-9 and 14-16), the Desert Trip festival will be headlined by some of history's most iconic rock acts, such as Rolling Stones, Bob Dylan, Neil Young, Roger Waters and The Who and ex-Beatle Paul McCartney. visitpalmsprings.com.

THE Kimpton Journeyman Hotel, Kimpton’s first hotel in Milwaukee, opened its doors on July 1.

The first guests at the Journeyman, located in the downtown historic Third Ward neighbourhood, could receive a complimentary locallyproduced leather backpack (on a first-come, first-serve basis), complete with tailored itineraries offering a ‘journey’ around the city.

The itineraries highlight the latest hot spots in the local area and will be specifically tailored to the length of the guests’ stay.

Journeymanhotel.com

What do you gain from being a Visit USA member?

Our membership helps us to increase awareness amongst tour operators, media and consumers of the fantastic products on offer in Utah.

Which Visit USA initiatives have you signed up for? We will be at the Media Awards (July 5 2016), Meet the Media (January 2017), Destinations London (February 2017) and Unite USA (March 2017).

What attributes do you think makes Utah unique among U.S. states? There are five diverse National Parks, known as 'The Mighty Five': Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef and Zion; Park City, now North America’s largest ski resort, along with a total of 14 ski resorts statewide; the contrasting scenery of red rock landscapes in the south and alpine vistas in the north; and the highest concentration of International Dark Sky Parks anywhere in the world (the six are: Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, Dead Horse Point State Park, Hovenweep, Natural Bridges and Weber County North Fork Park).

What’s your own most memorable Utah holiday or memory? I just loved hiking through the hoodoos of Bryce Canyon National Park and driving an all-terrain vehicle through the mountains of northern Utah near Logan.

The azure waters of Bear Lake and the immaculate grounds of Temple Square are also not to be missed. visitutah.com

Subscribe to the Visit USA Association online Travel Update at visitusa.org.uk

VISIT USA ROADSHOW A M E R I C A H I T S T H E R OA D • V I S I T U S A R OA D S H OW.C O M

PRIZES

Newcastle 2 United Airlines Economy return tickets from Newcastle to New York 2 nights at the Grand Hyatt New York

Bristol THE VISIT USA 2016 ROADSHOWS will take place in Newcastle/Gateshead, Bristol and Brighton during the early evening of October 4, 5 and 6 respectively.

The popular events have been designed to maximise the networking opportunities for agents and exhibitors alike. All three Roadshows are being held in selected premium hotel accommodation providing sufficient space for the 30 Visit USA exhibitors and

agent audiences to exchange information and learn more about each other’s business development opportunities. Food and drink will be provided. The format will include speed-networking – which will see agents visiting all the supplier stands – and the chance to win some great prizes. Goody bags will be distributed and a holiday to the USA will be up for grabs at each location (see opposite for prize details).

2 nights at Nine Zero (a Kimpton Hotel)

THE VENUES

Early evening, from 5pm onwards

Register now to attend

2 Aer Lingus Economy return tickets from Bristol to Boston via Dublin

Brighton

Tuesday October 4

Wednesday October 5

Thursday October 6

NEWCASTLE/GATESHEAD

BRISTOL

BRIGHTON

The Marriott Hotel Metro Centre

The Bristol Hotel Prince Street

The Waterfront Jurys Inn

2 British Airways Economy return tickets from London Heathrow to Denver or San Francisco 7 nights Cruise America RV Rental picking up from Denver or San Francisco

visitusaroadshow.com 2016 EXHIBITORS...

AER LINGUS • APOLLO MOTORHOME HOLIDAYS • ATLANTIC CITY CVA • CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT • CHOICE HOTELS INTERNATIONAL • COLORADO TOURISM OFFICE • CRUISE AMERICA MOTORHOME (RV) RENTALS • EL MONTE RV • GRAND CANYON TOUR AND TRAVEL • GREATER MIAMI CVB • HANDLERY HOTELS • HYATT HOTELS & RESORTS • KENNEDY SPACE CENTER VISITOR COMPLEX • MASSACHUSETTS OFFICE OF TRAVEL & TOURISM • MAVERICK AVIATION GROUP • NAR (UK) LTD • NEW ORLEANS CVB & LOUISIANA OFFICE OF TOURISM • VISIT NORTH CAROLINA • PAPILLON GRAND CANYON HELICOPTERS • PHILADELPHIA CVB • PURE MICHIGAN • SANTA MONICA TRAVEL & TOURISM • SCOTTSDALE CVB • STATE OF VERMONT TOURISM • TEXAS TOURISM • THE BEACHES OF FORT MYERS & SANIBEL • UNITED AIRLINES



Register now to attend one of the roadshows by visiting visitusaroadshow.com

the gambia & cape verde

19

waves making

West Africa’s ‘recovery’ is based on its offering of great experiences, excellent lodges and back-to-nature appeal, says Cameron Roberts

T

he Gambia has long been the main standard bearer for West African tourism and, despite some recent problems, is back on the radar of UK visitors.

The Smiling Coast of Africa, as the destination is nicknamed, attracted 26,764 visitors last year.

Louise Thomas, Marketing and PR Executive for Serenity Holidays said: “The Gambia is ideal for a range of sectors, with its familyfriendly beachfront hotels, luxury boutique, spa resorts and quality lodges. It also offers great cultural and wildlife experiences.”

Also carving a name for itself on West Africa’s tourism circuit is the lesserknown, but increasing popular, Cape Verde, a small collection of 10 islands off The Gambia’s west coast.

Thomas added: “Cape Verde is relatively new and perceived by many as an upand-coming destination that offers something a little different.”

“Each island is very different, with its own distinct character and history.”

The similarities between the two destinations are easy to see: they offer year-round appeal, are on similar time zones to the UK and appeal to a wide range of visitors.

Caption: Mandina Lodges in The Gambia is an accommodation option that offers clients the chance to connect with nature

sellingtravel.co.uk

Discover the smiling coast of Africa Exotic culture, unique and boutique hotels, friendly people and a warm welcome awaits you.

With only 6 hours flying time from the UK and no jet lag you can be relaxing by the pool by late afternoon, sipping a cocktail and watching the sun set.

For an agent log-in, brochure supplies, webinar training or support, call:

01489 866 955 Serenity.co.uk/Trade

the gambia & cape verde

21

Perfect ten

selection of The Gambia’s many bird species.

Beaches: The isles of Sal and Boa Vista The festival will take place at the Tendaba in Cape Verde are must-sees for beach Camp in the lower regions of The Gambia. visitthegambia.gm lovers, and also appeal for families and solos.

Birdwatching: The Gambia attracts Tour operators: The Cape Verde Experience ‘twitchers’ due to its variety of birdlife, (capeverde.co.uk) has launched its November 2016 – October 2017 brochure. It is packed full of tours, with over 550 species.

Island hopping: There’s a range of accommodation options and bespoke holidays to activities across the Cape Verde help agents sell the islands. archipelago. Each island something different:  Accommodation: The Gambia Tourism Board relax on a beach, explore a lush forest, go (visitthegambia.gm) is currently promoting Ndemban homestays, that sees clients staying in family wreck-diving .

Banjul: Visitors should visit The homes. They will experience the daily life of locals.

Training: The Gambia has revamped its Gambia’s capital for a glimpse of the online training with Travel Uni and now offers country’s diverse make up. Browse in some of a four-module programme which covers a the the many lively markets.

Culture Clash: Cape Verde’s cultural variety of holiday types, selling tips and insider appeal lies in its mix of Portuguese, knowledge. Sign up today at gambiaguru.com African and Brazillian influences.

Kartong Village: Secluded from the Tourism talk “Gambia and Cape Verde are both popular main resort areas on a long stretch of destinations, with Cape Verde selling well river, the village is a centre for eco-lodges. The with couples and families. The Gambia is village attracts those looking to connect with more popular with couples and groups. Both The Gambia’s abundant natural resources.

Volcanoes: Santiago is Cape Verde’s destinations are easy to promote due to their rich largest island culture, vivid nature and with two volcanic peaceful locations, mountain ranges just making them ideal for saking to be climbed! holidaymakers looking to “Both Gambia and Cape Recommend to explore more than their Verde are ideal for adventure lovers! hotels. holidaymakers searching The River “The Gambia, for for warm winter sun, long Gambia: A trip example, is very popular sandy beaches, and great along the river is a with nature lovers: view popular excursion. It exotic birds on a river value for money” offers a taste of the cruise down the creeks or ANDREW HITCHINS, THOMAS COOK REGIONAL PRODUCT MANAGER, NORTH AFRICA, EGYPT country’s history, nature walk through local forest AND CENTRAL EUROPE as well as everyday to see the monkeys. local life.

“Cape Verde offers Year-round: a great base for Cape Verde has genuine year-round sea activities, including wind- or kite-surfing, appeal, with the sun a constant presence in sailing, scuba diving and Atlantic fishing. most months. The gusting breezes and winds in Both The Gambia and Cape Verde are ideal for the winter months are perfect holidaymakers searching for warm winter sun, for windsurfing and kite long sandy beaches, and great value for money. surfing.

“Thomas Cook sells The Gambia from November to Wrestling: A April, however trips to Cape Verde are available year staple of round. The locals are friendly, and the varied wildlife Gambian sport, Borreh and countryside makes them both great locations for (wrestling) is featured at excursions – whether inland or by sea”. many national events and Andrew Hitchins,Thomas Cook Regional Product festivals. Suggest to clients Manager, North Africa, Egypt and Central Europe that they build in time to see Where to book it a competition – and cheer  THE GAMBIA EXPERIENCE – 01489 866939 like a local!

The Gambia Experience offering a tour called What’s new ‘Wildlife of The Gambia and Senegal’ which �Festivals: Festivals: Suggest The is a triple-centre holiday staying at three Gambia International Bird Festival hotels from its ‘Unique Collection’, with each to bird-watching clients. This year offering a different wildlife experience. Prices it takes place October 21-25. Those start from £1599pp for seven nights. gambia.co.uk  attending will get to see a large

sellingtravel.co.uk

From left: Spur-winged lapwing is endemic to The Gambia; Cape Verde’s clear waters are perfect for rowing; tours are the best way to experience The Gambia’s culture; Tarrafal beach on Santiago Island is great for families and couples.

THE CARIBBEAN TOURISM ORGANIZATION UK TRAVEL AGENT ROADSHOWS 2016 ROADSHOW LOCATIONS 14th September - Chester 15th September – Birmingham (Venues to be confirmed) Join the Caribbean Tourism Organization and partners for an informative evening of networking, fun and a chance to win great prizes including a pair of British Airways flights to Tobago.

We kick off the events at 6pm and close at 9.30pm.

FOR FURTHER DETAILS AND RSVP Email: RSVP@caribtourism.com Call: 020 8948 0057 Or register now at www.caribbeantravelguru.com/reg-form.html

“… I learnt loads about the Caribbean suppliers and feel more confident in selling their products to my future customers”.

Daryl Glean – Travel Counsellors (London Roadshow May 2016)

“…Well organised roadshow, I thoroughly enjoyed it and learnt a lot from the show….”

Lisa D'Souza – All Dream Holidays (Chelmsford Roadshow – May 2016)

PARTNERS TO DATE: but more to follow…

MEDIA SPONSOR:

www.sellingtravel.co.uk

TA L K I N G S H O P

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23

-INSPIRED BY YOUThe stuff that happens when agents get involved...

Alberta comes to your office SPOTLIGHT ON...

Alberta is offering agents the chance to win a themed coffee morning kit.

Packed with Canadian and Albertan goodies the kit will provide a flavour of the province, and wil include an educational pack to help boost trade knowledge and inspire sales.

To be in with the chance of winning a coffee morning kit for your office, tell us where in Alberta 'The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth’ takes place each summer? Enter online at sellingtravel.co.uk/competitions or email your name, agency address and answer to Travelalberta@sellingtravel. co.uk

Contents 24 Been There, Done That 26 On Location 28 Wise Counsel

Win Christmas OPSREY HOLIDAYS

AGENTS making any Osprey Holiday booking before by August 31 will be entered into a draw to win two nights in a four-star Berlin hotel with return flights in December to visit the citie's famed Christmas markets. Send the booking reference in an email titled ‘WIN CHRISTMAS’ to marketing@ospreyholidays.com

App launch

Oceania ship visits OCEANIA CRUISES has announced a series of opportunities over the summer for the UK travel trade to step on board its luxury fleet.

Nautica, Marina and Insignia will be travelling around the UK and Ireland with stops in England, Scotland, Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.

ining Global tra

TRAVEL COUNSELLORS

Marina will also be showcased at the CLIA UK & Ireland Luxury Cruise Expo in Southampton on August 15.

Agents will experience ‘The Fines Cuisine at Sea’ along with a chance to meet the UK team.

Dates are available between July 15 and September 20, and travel agents can register their

Global Travel Group members celebrated completing their two-week training course at the consortium’s dedicated training centre in Chester.

Pictured left to right, Cactus Travel’s Neal Stone and Kirie Hansen; Lizzie Barrett from E-Travel; Gina George from Silver Dream Travel and The Global Travel Group’s Rob Griffiths, Lezli Flaherty and Mark Rowlands.

Globaltravelgroup.com

interest by emailing eventsuk@oceaniacruises.com.

Bernard Carter, Senior Vice President and Managing Director EMEA, Oceania Cruises said: “This programme of ship visits will equip travel agents with the first-hand knowledge to further increase their luxury business.”

Oceaniacruises.com

TRAVEL Counsellors' new app for customers, available from the Apple Store and Google Store, provides access to key travel information. ‘My TC’ also allows Travel Counsellors to personalise booking information with imagery, names and trip notes.

Travelcousellors.co.uk

Keep in mind...

13

SEPTEMBER SELLING TRAVEL DESTINATION DIALOGUE Selling Travel is pleased to present an evening with JA Resorts in Manchester to learn more about its product range. Make contacts and meet industry colleagues over a some drinks and food. There will also be a chance to win some great prizes on the night. Sellingtravel.co.uk

COMING UP & ENDING SOON

15

September SELLING TRAVEL DESTINATION DIALOGUE Make contacts and meet industry colleagues at Selling Travel's Oman event in Newcastle. Discover more about the destination and its new products over some nibbles and drink. Some great Oman prizes will be up for grabs on the night. Sellingtravel.co.uk More online at sellingtravel.co.uk/events

sellingtravel.co.uk

talking shop

24

BEEN THERE done that

Florida's beaches and culture

BRIGHT event

BRIGHT (Bringing Real Information and Guaranteed High Quality Training) welcomed 24 independent agents from eight agencies and homeworkers to its event in Manchester. Pictured from left is Fiona Coleman (Egencia Travel), Rachel Jelly (Sunvil), Jools Fryer (Egencia Travel) and Andy Sharples (Cruise Holidays UK).

West Coast charms

Brightconsortia.com

TEN UK and Ireland agents visited St. Petersburg/Clearwater on a trade FAM. On the trip was Sirin Huffam (Visit St. Pete/Clearwater), Patrick Dunne (American Holidays), Sarah Pearson (American Sky), Rebecca Kirkby (British Airways), Nicholas Divall (Funway), Thomas Whitbread (Ocean Florida), John Maccalman (Travel 2), Marie Shergold (Travel Republic), Claire Weaving (TUI) and Debra Hutton (TravelPlanners). Visitstpeteclearwater.co A

B

a Manchester to Chin TRAVEL AGENTS and representatives of Manchester Airport and Hainan Airlines ew to Beijing on the airline's inaugural ight from the northern city. Chinese and British dignitaries and executives from the airport and Hainan Airlines welcomed the group in Manchester. The agents spent four days In Beijing and visited some of the city's best-known sights such as the Forbidden City and the Great Wall of China.

A MICHELLE WALSH from Trailfinders won a luxury holiday for two to Abu Dhabi at an event at Edinburgh's Waldorf Astoria celebrating the first anniversary of Etihad Airways flying between Edinburgh and Abu Dhabi. Pictured from left Alexandra Docherty (Fairmont), Michelle Walsh (Trailfinders), Karen Roberts (Hyatt) and Jane Dawkins (TCA Abu Dhabi).

Tcaabudhabi.ae B A GROUP of tour operator sales staff visited Bangkok and Phuket in conjunction with Eva Air and Anand Collection. The group spent two nights at Pathumwan Princess Bangkok and

three nights at Vijitt Resort. Pictured from left, Omkar Satti (Hayes and Jarvis), Jas Anand (Anand Collection), Anthony Bowler (Virgin Holidays), Gillian McKay (Travel 2) and Jacob Mensah (Lees Travel). Anandcollection.co.uk C CAROL CADMAN (pictured right) from Travel House Ammanford won the TIPTO/ SuperBreak London Night Out Competition. Her prize was a night at the Tower Hotel with a bottle of Prosecco, dinner at Planet Hollywood and VIP West End club entry. She is pictured with Ellen Kennard, SuperBreak Sales Executive, South West & Wales. Tipto.co.uk

Hainanairlines.com

C D

sellingtravel.co.uk

Titan’s worldwide brochure is OUT NOW! Showcasing Titan’s flagship collection of worldwide escorted tours and cruise holidays for 2017

Introducing the ‘Essential Collection’

Save up to £800 per person

VIP door-to-door travel service

36 brand new travel adventures

& free Gourmet Society membership worth £69.95 with every booking

included free† on the vast majority of Titan holidays

For more information please visit titanagents.co.uk Excludes Scottish islands and Sark, where vehicle access is restricted. VIP door-to-door travel service is not included on Titan’s ‘Essential Collection’ holidays. Terms and conditions apply on some offers. Calls free from BT landlines, mobiles may vary.

†

26

O N L O C AT I O N

talking shop

Extraordinary Western Australia THE DETAILS WHAT: FAM TO WESTERN AUSTRALIA WHEN: FEBRUARY 20-28, 2016 WHO: TOURISM WESTERN AUSTRALIA UK AND QATAR AIRWAYS WHY: MEET SUPPLIERS AND EXPERIENCE THE REGION

What they said...

“I had my perceptions changed. Perth has much more to offer the leisure traveller these days – previously there was little to hold people in the city. But now there are lots of great hotels, thriving restaurants and lots of interesting developments, such as Elizabeth Quay." Thomas Waite, Product & Category Executive, Kuoni Travel “Meeting face to face with suppliers I work with in our Surrey office not only encourages

THE HOSTS

a greater knowledge of the product that we

Five luxury-focused UK agents joined a famm trip to Western Australia earlier this year to check out some of the new experiences on offer in the state. The trip was hosted by Christie Lord, Regional Manager for Tourism Western Australia UK, with flights provided

by Qatar Airways.

sell but also enhances working relationships no end.” Naomi Cole, Product Executive Australasia, Discover The World

THE TRIP After arriving in Perth the agents spent their first night in the five-star Crown Metropol Perth. Just 20 minutes from the heart of Perth is Scarborough, where the group flew by helicopter to Western Australia’s island getaway, Rottnest Island.

Here they hired bikes and snorkels and meet the friendly Quokka.

Back in Perth, the group stayed at COMO The Treasury in Perth’s historic district and sampled Thai food at David Thompson’s new Long Chim restaurant, homed in the hotel.

They explored

Elizabeth Quay, which is home to the Perth International Arts Festival, the oldest festival of its kind in Australia, and enjoyed a performance from Leftfield in the evening.

The following day the group visited Rockingham Wild Encounters for a dolphin cruise and a visit to Penguin Island before transferring on to the Margaret River Region.

A stop at Busselton gave the agents a chance to see Busselton Jetty, the longest timber jetty in the southern hemisphere (main picture).

The evening was spent at Pullman Bunker Bay Resort.

After a morning site inspection at Seashells Yallingup, it was on to Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse for a guided walk along the Cape to Cape path.

The next morning started with a tour of Ngili Cave with local operator Koomal Dreaming, tasting bush tucker and learning about the lives of the Wardani and Bibbulman people.

The weekend was spent at Hamelin Bay, where stingrays can be viewed in their natural habitat.

The whirlwind tour came to an end with a Chris Isaak concert

sellingtravel.co.uk

at the Leuwin Estate and a five-course gourmet dinner.

THE VERDICT Christie Lord, Regional Manager UK, Tourism Western Australia said: “The Extraordinary WA fam, in partnership with Qatar Airways, showcased the regeneration of Perth and the best of the Margaret River region to key product managers.

"We concentrated on the areas of the state that are most often visited

by UK holidaymakers, surprising the group with how stunning the beaches and the coastline is.

We showed them the fabulous new hotels and developments and the exceptional food and drink scene on offer. Feedback suggested the fam was a total success – so much so we intend to run a very similar trip next year.”

O N L O C AT I O N

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27

Work and play in Puerto Rico THE DETAILS WHEN: MAY 8-16, 2016 WHO: PUERTO RICO TOURISM COMPANY AND AIR EUROPA WHAT: EIGHT-NIGHT SALES AGENT FAM TRIP WHY: SHOWCASE THE ISLAND AND ATTEND THE TRADE SHOW, ETI

What they said...

“The trip was fantastic – everything ran smoothly and there was a perfect mix of activity/work/relaxation. I left with a very positive impression of Puerto Rico.”

Emma Louise Douty, Exsus

THE HOSTS Puerto Rico Tourism Company UK hosted eight sales agents on a fam trip to Puerto Rico. The trip, co-hosted by Air Europa, saw the agents experiencing some of the Caribbean country's leading sights as well as two full days at the ETI – International Tourism Expo 2016 held in San Juan, the capital.

THE TRIP The itinerary started off in San Juan where the group spent its first night at Hotel Miramar before travelling to Rincon – famous for its surfing – in the Porta Del Sol region. An early start the following morning saw the agents visiting the Salt Flats of

Cabo Rojo, Los Morrillos Lighthouse, Playuela Beach and Gilligan Island.

The group visited Ponce, the country’s largest city on the south coast, where they saw the city’s town square and striking Parque de Bombas (firehouse). They then returned to San Juan for the next two days at ETI, packed with seminars, meetings and presentations.

The second day at ETI was rounded off with a restaurant crawl around Old San Juan with cocktails and tapas at each restaurant. On the final weekend, the group explored Condado and Old San Juan, then travelled west to St Regis Bahia Beach Resort for a kayaking tour of Bio Bay.

Agent Offer

THE VERDICT Karis Masham from the Puerto Rico Tourism Company said: “The agents were able to get a feel for the city centre, combined with the relaxed charm of the island to really highlight the diversity of Puerto Rico. We went on a restaurant crawl in Old San Juan, surfed in Rincon, kayaked at night in Fajardo, and visited an array of hotels which ranged from fivestar luxurious beach resorts to self-catering apartments to B&Bs.”

“A great bunch of travel agents made the trip such an enjoyable experience. The fam trip has definitely made it easy to sell Puerto Rico to those clients who want an alternative Caribbean holiday. ” Christopher Goldring, Hays Travel “A fantastic itinerary made sure we got the very most out of our time there. Each day brought a very full schedule, with site visits, experiencing the local food and participating in several activities.”

Louise Jane Lawrence-Toner, Travel Up

30% OFF YOUR USA CAR HIRE Why Alamo’s the No.1 for USA car hire: l U p to 30% off fully inclusive packages for Travel Industry professionals l On-airport locations & award-winning customer service l No hidden extras or credit card fees l Free 24 hour roadside assistance l No cancellation charge

www.alamo.co.uk/sellingtravel Terms & Conditions: Travel Industry Staff ID will be required at time of rental to qualify for the discount and the rental does not qualify for frequent flyer programmes or cashback schemes. Examples of Travel Industry ID include Company ID card, business card, letter of employment or payslip. Standard rental terms and conditions apply. Full T&Cs found at www.alamo.co.uk/sellingtravel ©2016 Alamo Rent-A-Car. All rights reserved 16-UR018

WISE COUNSEL 28

talking shop

Barbara Charlton

 Barbara.Charlton@travelcounsellors.com  01293 737290

It's all Greek this summer I HOPE everyone is having a wonderful summer, be it at home or away, and that you are also securing your clients the holidays they want at the prices they want to pay.

The hardest thing at the moment is booking flights with various strikes – including by airlines – making our jobs harder than they should be.

I was very lucky during my own recent 12-day holiday to the Ionian island of Kefalonia, slotting it in just nicely between a whole bunch of strikes and disruptions.

This made our fourth visit even more perfect than it already was.

SMALL ISLAND HOTELS This time we stayed at three different small hotels on three very different parts of the island. There is very little in the way of mass tourism on the west coast of the Lixouri peninsular, which is odd because it has the best sunsets. We enjoyed these from our balconies at the Petani Bay Hotel as well as from Petani Beach.

The fish is as fresh and as huge as you could want and Kefalonia still offers amazing value for money. The Petani Bay hotel is a perfect retreat; the only sounds you hear regularly are goat bells from the wandering groups in the surrounding hills.

I would highly recommend this stylish

“The fish is as fresh and as huge as you could want and Kefalonia still offers amazing value for money” property for couples and honeymooners.

After just three nights on the west of the island, we headed to the south coast village of Katelios via Argostoli, with a detour around the Fanari peninsular for a peek at the famous lighthouse. Here we stayed at a nine-room villa guesthouse, Villa dei Sogni, for four nights. It is so peaceful with some fabulous restaurants within walking distance. We found a great place that was semi-hidden from the road, but once you went in and sat out at the tables in the gardens,you could have almost been in the Caribbean. As a fan of eating al fresco I love Greek summer dining!

Our final stay was in the small harbour village of Aghia Efimia on the east coast, south of popular Fiscardo. I took the long journey to get there through Poros.

At Aghia Efimia we had chosen a smallish, quality hotel – which was filled with repeat guests – called the Odyssey Hotel. This fabulous hotel also has only seaview suites and the food and staff were amazing.

SAILING OUT To take a break from all the wining dining and relaxing, we hired a boat for the day.

My husband had a 30-minute lesson in the harbour with the owner of Yellow Boats, and we were all set to go. They supplied a large freezer box, which we stocked up from the minimarket by the harbour.

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The route we took had 12 deserted bays, some teeny and some a bit larger, with only one of them accessible by a very narrow track, so you can pretty much find your own cove. Yellow Boats have 12 boats of varying sizes to rent out for the day (from around 65 euros plus fuel) so even if they were all out everyone could have their own beach.

With flat waters, stunning scenery and with Ithaka just a short distance away, it really was a great way to spend the day.

Clients should be booking in advance though as whilst we were there a number of people walked up for rentals and had to book for in a couple of days’ time.

So back to work and our own unpredictable summer. But it’s just three months until my next Greek Odyssey, with a three-island trip to Skiathos, Skopelos and tiny Alonyssos in September.

Happy summer selling!

sellingtravel.co.uk

w Ne eb w si te

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dubai

Flying high

The pace of development in Dubai ensures short breaks and stopovers in the emirate never go out of fashion, says Karl Cushing

W

ith a sudden banking manoeuvre from the pilot I was tipped towards The World development in Dubai’s Gulf, craning my neck to frame a decent shot through the aircraft window while scouring the country-shaped islands for signs of development. Then, having buzzed by the Burj, with its iconic dhow sail-inspired design, and indulged in some more skyscraper identification exercises, it was time to return to the ground.

Taking to the skies is a great way to take in Dubai’s futuristic cityscape and my Seawings tour was a great introduction.

Helicopter tours, offered by operators such as DoSomethingDifferent, are another great option while a helicopter ride to the Burj Al Arab for a Champagne and cocktail pairing features in Celebrity Cruises’ new Private Journeys programme.

Thanks to the proliferation of rooftop pools and lofty bars and restaurants you’re never far from a cracking view, however. Burj Khalifa’s 148th floor observation deck is a whopping 555m up and from late 2016 visitors will be able to catch dramatic views from the glass-floor bridge atop the ‘Dubai Frame’ in Zabeel Park.

sellingtravel.co.uk

29

30

dubai

From the top: Lapita Hotel, an Autograph Collection hotel; Motiongate theme park; Atlantis Aquaventure in Atlantis The Palm

One of Dubai’s strong points is its suitability Be a sport: Plan a trip around events for short stays. An obvious stopover option, it such as cycling’s Dubai Tour or packs a staggering choice of world-class hotels horseracing’s Dubai Gold Cup. For upcoming and attractions into a small, easy-to-explore options see: dubaicalendar.ae.

Be sand-tastic: Wadi-bashing dune space. Short stays can easily be tacked on to safari packages incorporating desert visits to nearby Emirates such as Abu Dhabi and investment in Dubai’s cruise terminal has helped camp hospitality remain a local tourism staple while accommodations such as Al Maha offer facilitate a boom in Middle Eastern cruises. high-end desert retreat stays.

Such points, combined with the excellent Pound the streets: Take to the streets airlift and an endless stream of new on January 20 2017 for the 17th Standard product, helped attract more than 14.2 Chartered Dubai Marathon. million overnight visitors in 2015 and the Get some park life: From October Department of Tourism and Commerce thrill-seekers can enjoy the rides at both Marketing aims to grow this to 20 million by the new IMG Worlds of Adventure and Dubai 2020, including two million from the UK. Parks and Resorts. Ad the little ones will love Meanwhile, an increased focus on the family old favourites such as Wild Wadi, KidZania and market is manifesting itself in a theme park Sega Republic. boom, adding to Dubai's already impressive Enjoy the spa treatment: Wellness fans range of attractions, with Championship will love offerings such as Angsana Spa golf courses, luxury spas and gourmet in Dubai Marina, ESPA spa at the Nikki Beach cuisine among the lures for adults.

Events such as horseracing’s Dubai Gold Cup in Resort and opulent Talise Ottoman Spa at Jumeirah Zabeel Saray.

March and the Dubai Rugby Sevens tournament Go back in time: For glimpses of the in December, sold through the likes of Gullivers old Dubai head to Bur Dubai for the Sports Travel and Horse Racing Abroad, also historic Al Bastakiya or offer strong hooks Al Fahidi district, for short stay sales.

“Hotels such as Golden characterful souqs and Premier Holidays Sands or Al Barsha by Mondo Dubai Museum.

Product Manager Nikki offer amazing value for money Grab a Hain points to the bargain: Check emirate’s reputation and are very well located out the Dubai Summer for delivering to take advantage of all that Surprises retail event affordable luxury.

Dubai has to offer” from July 9- August 20 “For the summer CHRIS HAGAN, HEAD OF OVERSEAS, SUPERBREAK 2016, or time a visit to months hotel rates coincide with the are almost 50% January-long Dubai Shopping Festival. less than usual, meaning a five-star stay in Party like it’s 2017: See the year out in Dubai often works out cheaper than a threestyle in Dubai with spectacular or four-star hotel in the Mediterranean,” she celebrations, fireworks galore and toasty says. “Most hotels offer added value extras temperatures. such as ‘children stay free’ or free halfboard during the summer months too.”

Tourism talk Hain advises offering clients a city and beach “The number of overnight visitors to Dubai from combination, not to mention booking ahead. the UK grew by 10% in the first quarter of 2016 “Airfares are higher closer to departure so any compared to the same period last year. Between saving on the hotel room rate is immediately absorbed by the cost of the flight. Also pre-book January and March 334,000 Brits travelled to any tours or excursions to avoid disappointment the city for one night or more, consolidating the UK’s position as Dubai’s leading European visitor — particularly if visiting the Burj Khalifa which source market and its third largest overall. is often booked up months in advance.”

“We expect UK visitor numbers to continue Perfect ten to increase in 2016 with a number of theme Grab some free time: Save your client’s park openings planned in the second half of some Dirham with complimentary the year — IMG Worlds of Adventure in August activities such as Dubai Fountain and Dubai and Dubai Parks & Resorts in October.

Aquarium shows and horse and camel racing at “Other key openings this year include Meydan and Al Marmoum racetracks.

Dubai Safari and the Dubai Opera House.

Go wild: For animal encounters consider These attractions are expected to attract Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, even more families and experience seekers Atlantis The Palm’s Dolphin Bay, Dubai Aquarium to Dubai from the UK and beyond.” and the new Dubai Safari — and don’t forget Shahab Abdulla Shayan, manager — UK Penguin Encounter at Ski Dubai. & Ireland region, Dubai Tourism

Getaways for the

FUN-LOVING FAMILIES

Have an action-packed family getaway in Dubai!

Enjoy a one of a kind all-Inclusive offer at the 5-star JA Jebel Ali Golf Resort, which includes access to the 800m private beach, dining at 15 restaurants, a range of exciting activities, and dedicated kids clubs for the little ones.

For bookings or more information, please call +971 4 814 5800, | 0800 0159 708 (UK toll free) or email reservations@jaresorts.com jaresortshotels.com

Untitled-2 1

/jebelaligolfresort

@jebelaliresort

05/07/2016 16:14

32

dubai

What’s new  Hotels: Dubai plans to grow its hotel bedstock from around 100,000 to 150,000 by 2020. Hot new openings this spring include Viceroy Dubai and the Nikki Beach Resort (nikkibeach.com), both at Pearl Jumeirah, while selling points for the new 106-guestroom Four Seasons Dubai International Financial Centre (fourseasons.com) include the spa and rooftop terrace with glass-walled pool July saw Dusit (dusit.com) open the 237-guestroom dusitD2 Kenz Dubai in the TECOM district with Madinat Jumeirah's (jumeirah.com) new Al Naseem extension opening in December. Next year’s highlights include Bulgari Resort & Residences (bulgarihotels. com) on Jumeirah Bay Island and Jumeirah’s 300-room Venu on Bluewaters Island, whose other attractions will include a souq and Dubai-I, the world’s largest ferris wheel.

A 281-room, five-star Hard Rock hotel (hardrockhotels.com) is set to open in the fourth quarter in the Marina 101 building in Dubai Marina and the planned Royal Atlantis Resort, next to Atlantis The Palm, will be topped with scenic rooftop areas and Sky Pool.

These new high-end openings are music to the ears of operators such as Travel 2.

“Dubai is by far Travel 2’s most popular destination in the Middle East for luxury holidays,” says Deborah Wadhams, Senior Product Manager – Middle East.  Attractions: Theme parks is another hot area. IMG Worlds of Adventure (imgworlds. com) will purportedly be the world’s largest indoor theme park when it opens on August 15, with rides based on popular Marvel and Cartoon Network characters.

The humungous Dubai Parks and Resorts (dubaiparksandresorts.com), opening in October, will feature more than 100 rides and attractions over three main theme parks — Legoland Dubai, Bollywood Parks Dubai and the Hollywood-inspired Motiongate Dubai — and a Legoland water park, with AMG Management handling UK travel trade sales.

With a 20th Century Fox World park opening in 2018 and a Six Flags Theme Park opening late 2019 the prospects for selling theme park breaks in Dubai are huge.

Other new attractions include the 400-hectare Dubai Safari Project, featuring elements such as a botanical garden and children’s zoo, and Dubai Crocodile Park. Both will open some time in the third quarter, with the Museum of the Future opening sometime next year.

More cultural offerings include the first phase of the Dubai Opera House and Dubai Opera District, opening September (dubaiopera.com).

Other projects planned include the sprawling Mall of the World; the Dubai Canal project, which will join Dubai Creek with the sea when completed in 2017; and turning the ‘trunk’ of Palm Jumeirah into a mile-long walkable beach, park, retail and café complex named The Palm Promenade.

Meanwhile SuperBreak (superbreak.com/agents) is in the process of re-launching its Dubai programme. Chris Hagan, the operator’s Head of Overseas product, says the new programme features around 40 properties and has a focus on experiential packages and excursions from desert safaris and Arabian Nights to seaplane tours and theme park packages. By giving agents access to all airlines operating between the UK and Dubai they can easily create flight inclusive packages too, he says.

“Friday brunch is a must, whether it’s a leisurely occasion with family or more of a party vibe with friends. Suggest Saffron at the Atlantis and Al Muntaha at The Burj Al Arab, to name a few” GABRIELLE COWLEY, PRODUCT MANAGER, ITC LUXURY TRAVEL GROUP

Where to book it  ITC LUXURY TRAVEL – 01244 355 527 Three nights in a Resort Deluxe Room at Jumeirah Al Naseem start from £1,449pp, room only, for travel from January 10 2017, including flights with Emirates from Heathrow. itcluxurytravel.co.uk

 HAYES & JARVIS – 01293 762 456 A four-night B&B break at the Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi starts from £749pp, departing September 1, including complimentary room upgrade to half-board and flights from Heathrow with British Airways. hayesandjarvis.co.uk 

sellingtravel.co.uk

Clockwise from top left: Hatta Motel; Four Seasons’ rooftop pool; The Frame building and the new Dusit property

ecuador & galapagos

33

I

eco

paradise

Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands remain one of Latin America’s most alluring combinations – and for good reason, says Adam Coulter

Pictured: Cotopaxi Volcano

have a manta ray swimming beside me, a school of hammerhead sharks below me and a turtle gliding languidly towards me – and all this on my first dive.

My expectations of the Galapagos are not just being met, they are being exceeded.

Yesterday, as I drove from Baltra airport to my hotel, the taxi driver said to me: “If you look to your left you’ll see a giant tortoise in that field.” And there he was, lumbering along; no fanfare or signs, just wild in a field.

At the fish market in Santa Cruz I saw sea lions begging for offcuts from the fishermen, like pesky labradors; pelicans hanging around and being shooed away by the fishermen, and the biggest lobsters I had ever seen piled up for sale. A few yards on, and a group of marine iguanas lie sunbathing on the pavement, indifferent to me as I walk by. All this before I even start my cruise!

Compact country With no direct flights, Ecuador is not the easiest country to get to from the UK but once your client is there there’s an awful lot to see and do in a relatively small area.

All international flights land in Quito, which is a fascinating capital, full of wonderful colonial-era architecture and grand squares, as well as being bang on Latitude Zero – and all the fun associated with that.

North of the capital is cloudforest, the rolling countryside of the Northern Sierra and some beautiful haciendas. To the east is the Amazon rainforest, and south the famous ‘Avenue of the Volcanoes’. Further south still the whitewashed university city of Cuenca makes for a lovely place to wander at leisure for a couple of days.

The north-west of the country is probably the least visited and still recovering from a devastating earthquake. The LATA Foundation is looking into supporting projects to help rebuild and restore the tourism and hospitality industry along this stretch of the coast.

However, the big draw for most is The Galapagos Islands, which lie in the Pacific, some two-and-a-half hours from Quito. The bucket list archipelago was the inspiration for Charles Darwin’s Origin of Species and is home to a large number of iconic species such as the

“There’s a lot to see in a relatively small area. Mainland Ecuador is a relatively small country but it packs a lot in and an overland trip, combined with the Galapagos Islands, is the perfect way to sell this fascinating country”

34

ecuador & galapagos

Perfect ten

see schools of hammerhead sharks, manta rays, whale sharks, turtles and sea lions at all times of the year.

Latitude zero city: In Quito, Ecuador’s capital, you can straddle two hemispheres at once and enjoy beautiful colonial buildings.

Exotic Amazon: Explore the rainforest and learn how the indigenous people harness its resources.

Hike the hills: Walk the high-altitude Quilotoa Loop or bike down Cotopaxi volcano.

Wet and wild in Banos: The adventure capital offers white -water rafting, paragliding, canyoning and much more.

Family fun: Children can learn about Darwin’s theory of evolution whilst enjoying the pristine beaches in Galapagos.

Tame beasts: Travellers can get right up close to the native animals of the Galapagos. Most wildlife have no fear of humans as historically we have posed no threat to them.

Great weather: Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands lie on the Equator, so the weather is consistent year-round.

Twitcher heaven: There’s a large number of endemic bird species seen nowhere else in the world in Ecuador.

Agent friendly: Metropolitan Touring is running a number of educationals this year for agents to experience its new ship, Santa Cruz II. Scuba sell: Galapagos is the only place in the world where you are guaranteed to

 Accommodation: Finch Bay Eco Hotel (finchbayhotel.com) in Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz, has been completely refurbished and redesigned.

As well as new furniture, décor, design and colour palette, there is a new space – the Expedition Room – to relax, read and listen to talks by the hotel’s naturalist guides.

Casa Gangotena (asagangotena.com) in Quito, has launched a series of cultural activities designed so guests can immerse themselves deeper into the culture of the city. Among the experiences on offer are chocolate tasting, body cleansing rituals and historical lectures.

Pikaia Lodge (pikaialodge.com) is the newest accommodation on Santa Cruz Island. Hidden away in a secluded location and nestled on top of an extinct volcano, the lodge is

giant tortoise, the Galapagos penguin, the flightless cormorant, marine iguanas, sea lions, hammerheads and the Galapagos shark.

There really is nowhere on earth where you can get so up close and personal with wildlife – whether you’re selling to birders, naturalists, divers or families.

In March the Ecuadorian government announced the creation of a new marine protection zone within the Galapagos Archipelago, an area of 14,000 nautical miles around the (uninhabited) northern islands of Darwin and Wolf, which is now completely off-limits to fishing.

What’s new

billed as one of the most advanced greenfocused lodges in the world. It operates with alternative energy resources such as solar panels and a wind generator.  Operators: Metropolitan Touring (metropolitantouring.com) operates a tour to one of the best parties in town – Misquilla. Combining the best of Ecuadorian rhythms from the country’s top musicians, traditional cuisine, and a traditional selection of craft beer, the night is a great introduction to Ecuadorian culture.

Ecoventura (origingalapagos.com) has launched MV Origin, a 20-passenger mega-yacht with 10 deluxe staterooms, locally-inspired gourmet food, a Jacuzzi and a fitness centre.

Tourism talk “Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands remain of one of Latin America’s most attractive tourist destinations. Though one of the smallest countries on the continent, what it lacks in size it makes up for in diversity. You can travel from tropical coast to Andean volcanoes to Amazon forest, in just a matter of hours.”

Byron Shirto, Chairman of LATA

Where to book it  Last Frontiers – 01296 653 000 The operator has a number of different itineraries to the Galapagos Islands and all can be personalised. Prices are available upon request.

Last Frontiers also organises tailor-made holidays in Ecuador. See its website for sample itineraries. lastfrontiers.com

 Metropolitan Touring – 020 8675 4150 A 10-day trip to the Galapagos, including a night at the Hosteria Rincon De Puembo, in Quito, four nights on Santa Cruz II, three nights at Finch Bay Eco Hotel and one night in Casa Gangotena Hotel, Quito, from $4,516pp (c.£3,451), not including flights. metropolitan-touring.com 

Pictured, clockwise from top right: The Huaorani tribe in Yasuni National Park, the Amazon rainforest; Bartolome Island, Galapagos; a land iguana eating a prickly pear cactus; Quito’s colonial centre

sellingtravel.co.uk

The Review O N LY T H E T R AV E L N E W S T H AT R E AL LY M AT T E R S

36

R A I S I N G B O L I V I A’ S P R O F I L E : Tourism now a priority for South American country

37

NEWS TO USE Western Australia UK trade push GET ONLINE

38

S H OW R E PO RT IPW 2016, New Orleans

40

CHECKING OUT JA Ocean View, Dubai

R E A D A L L O U R M A G A Z I N E S A N D C H E C K O U T O U R D A I LY S E L L I N G T I P S AT S E L L I N G T RAV E L.C O.U K

sellingtravel.co.uk

36

the review

T O U R I S M U P D AT E

Bolivia looks for tourists

Luxury trends boost bookings HIGH - END tour operator Pure Luxury’s

CAROL HAY UK Manager, Caribbean Tourism Organisation

new

28-page

mini-

brochure has listed tours under ‘popular travel trends’.

Themes covered include Spa, All

ALWAYS SUMMER IN CARIBBEAN!

-inclusive, Families, Cuisine, Off-

I HOPE you’re all enjoying the British

the-Beaten-Track and Adventure.

Summer whilst sharing with your clients

The operator says these key

that ‘it’s always summer’ in the Caribbean!

areas have been identified in

Our recent Caribbean Roadshows went

response to strong year-on-year

very well. If you were unable to attend,

bookings, including a 21% increase

consider our next ones in September. The

in spa specialist properties and a

CTO will be visiting Chester on Wednesday

10% cent increase in children

14 and Birmingham on Thursday 15.

travelling on luxury holidays.

You’ll have the chance to experience an

Over

30

worldwide

luxury

informative evening of networking with a

holiday offers include seven nights

great selection of trade partners and our

all-inclusive

media partner, Selling Travel. There will also

Antigua, priced from £3,539pp.

be some amazing prizes on offer, so please

pureluxuryholidays.co.uk

at

Carlisle

Bay,

join us. Register to attend now at caribbeantravelguru.com/reg-form.html or

BY LAURA GELDER

RSVP at RSVP@caribtourism.com. Places

BOLIVIA’S Minister of Cultures and

and capacity development and will

are filling up fast, so don’t delay!

Tourism, Marcelo

encourage mostly high-end tourism.

Marko

Machicao

APT offers rewards for new bookings

September is ‘Caribbean Month’, when we

Bankovic, visited the UK for the first time

The minister stressed that Bolivia

ask our partners to promote the Caribbean,

to raise awareness of Bolivia among the

wants to preserve its heritage and

raise awareness, increase winter sales and

the UK travel industry.

protect its environment by encouraging

TO celebrate its 2017 Luxury River

high spenders rather than chasing the

Cruising brochure, APT is giving

higher mass market numbers.

agents the chance to earn rewards

generate those early 2017 bookings.

The minister admitted that until now

If you’re not a member of our Travel Uni

tourism has not been a priority but that

online training programme, Caribbean Travel

it was the government’s aim to make the

It will also encourage more small

Guru, register now at caribbeantravelguru.

sector one of the most important drivers

boutique hotels and one of these is set

The new brochure features the

com and start reaping the rewards.

of Bolivia’s economy.

to open in August: Design Hotels’ 53-bed

river cruise line’s return to Russia

that include ‘desirable gadgets’.

June’s top gurus were Jo Plummer of Tropic

He said: “Bolivia is at the heart of

Atix Hotel in La Paz. Housed within a

along with new itineraries along

Breeze, who won £100 of Amazon Vouchers

South America and it makes sense that

modern glass-fronted parallelogram-

the Danube and Douro rivers.

for making the most Caribbean bookings,

we become one of its hubs.

shaped building it will display a series of

The incentive applies to every

and Massimo Corbo of Hotels of the

“There is a misconception that we are

art installations, video, photography and

new 2017 and 2018 Europe and

Caribbean, who won a ticket to the CTO’s

just a highlands country but we have

sculpture from Bolivian artist Gastón

Asia booking made between July 8

Caribbean Summer Party in London by

much to offer beyond the Andes:

Ugalde. Each of the hotel’s six floors will

and August 31. Agents can receive

logging the most Caribbean bookings

vineyards, Amazon rainforest, salt flats

represent a different Bolivian ecosystem

rewards that range from a £25

between May 18 and June 10 on

and cultural cities such as colonial Sucre.”

– from the Amazon to the Lípez Desert

Fitbit Alta to a Kindle Fire HD.

Bankovic revealed that between 2008

– and Atix’s restaurant, Ara, has been

APT is currently offering savings

and 2015 international visitors grew by

conceptualised in partnership with La

of up to £1,500 per couple on 2017

an encouraging 7%.

Paz eatery, Gustu Gastronomía.

and 2018 river cruises booked

mybookingrewards.com.

Prizes up for grabs in August are a rum and chocolate hamper for the agent logging the most Caribbean bookings and a £50

To encourage more growth, the

UK travellers can reach Bolivia with Air

Love2shop voucher draw for completing the

government is looking at three areas of

Europa, from Gatwick (via Madrid).

most exams and quizzes.

investment: infrastructure, promotion

Bolivia.travel

before August 31. aptouring.co.uk/agents

For more information on all the CTO’s activities, please contact Ann-Marie Brooks

NEWS TO USE IN BRIEF

on 020 8948 0057 or at abrooks@ caribtourism.com

Caribbean Tourism Organization 22 The Quadrant, Richmond, Surrey, TW9 1BP Tel: 020 8948 0057 Fax: 020 8948 0067 caribbean.co.uk

Watergate open again: The iconic

Warner Bros. goes east: A Warner

New luxury lodge in Namibia: Chobe

Watergate Hotel in Washington, D.C.

Brothers-themed destination will open

Water Villas opened on July 1. The

has reopened following a $125-million

on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi in 2018. It will

exclusive lodge sees guests staying in

makeover. On the banks of the

include the immersive theme park

16 raised villas on the edge of a

Potomac River, the 336-room property

Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi and the

lagoon at the confluence of the Chobe

will soon feature a spa and Top of the

world’s first Warner Bros. hotel, bringing

and Zambezi Rivers. It has views of

Gate, a rooftop bar with views of the

together stories and characters from

Sedudu Island, Chobe National Park

Capitol and Washington Monument.

the studio’s superheroes.

and safari-gateway town, Kasane.

TheWatergateHotel.com

visitabudhabi.ae

chobewatervillas.com

sellingtravel.co.uk

the review

An extraJORDANary destination

Agents need help say LATA

Western Australia reaches out to trade

THE Jordan Tourism Board’s (JTB)

TOURISM Western Australia has a

latest

campaign,

new tourism marketing campaign

is set to run

– Just Another Day in Western

marketing

‘ExtraJORDANary’,

Australia (WA) – along with plans

until September.

to showcase to the UK trade during

The £500,000 initiative puts the spotlight

on

the

a four-stop roadshow.

country’s

Part of a ‘major trade push’, the

spectacular history, culture and

Just Another Day in WA roadshow

hospitality ethos.

Adel Amin, Director of Marketing,

will run from September 26-29,

Jordan Tourism Board says: “The

visiting London, Manchester, Leeds

campaign’s focus is to showcase

and Glasgow.

our majestic country and inspire

The aim is to give agents the

people to visit, as well as extend

chance to pick up the latest WA

support to our trade partners.”

product

and

destination

The campaign highlights Jordan’s

information and selling tips as

most special places and aims to

well as an opportunity to win a

“create desire and intrigue through

place on a fam trip. There will also

a captivating headline and visuals”.

be a Virtual Training Webinar.

Jordan is home to a plethora of

waroadshow.com; justanotherdayinwa.com

attractions, including the UNESCO -listed World Heritage Site of

BY LAURA GELDER

holidays were they cited lack of product

Petra and the Dead Sea, 400m

THE Latin America Travel Association’s

knowledge and confidence, followed by

below sea level and the lowest

(LATA) first travel trends report, released

low customer demand, cost, client

point on earth.

to coincide with the Experience Latin

concerns about health issues and client concerns over safety and security.

Taber hot in Norway TABER Holidays has introduced a

Situated in the north is Amman,

America trade event in London this

the country’s capital and the

summer, concludes that the UK trade is

Around 41% of agents perceived health

beating heart of the Hashemite

lacking the knowledge and tools to sell

and safety concerns as a barrier to travel

travelling by Hurtigruten as far as

Kingdom, offering a unique blend

the region affectively.

to the region – but just 5% of consumers

Tromsø, and continuing by plane to

mentioned it as a reason not to visit.

Longyearbyen, the world’s most

of old and new with the modern

The

report, presented

by

LATA

Shirto listed the region’s hotspots as

new

tour

that

sees

guests

restaurants, traditional boutiques

Chairman Byron Shirto, showed that

and local markets surrounded by

Latin America is still a niche destination

Cuba, Costa

evidence of its historic past.

for most of the 130 travel agents

Colombia, but noted that Cuba would

The 10-day journey begins in

visitjordan.com

surveyed. Only sub-Saharan Africa was

struggle to provide the hotel capacity to

Bergen, before travelling the entire

sold less frequently, according to the

meet the doubling of arrivals predicted

length of Norway’s coastline.

LATA survey.

over the next five years. Top cities picked

It showed that 62% of agents regarded their product knowledge of the region as

out

for

Rica, Nicaragua

growth

included

and

Bogota,

Cartagena, Lima, La Paz and Fortaleza.

northerly town on the remote Svalbard archipelago.

The ship will dock at some of Norway’s most picturesque towns and villages. Highlights include the

Shirto added: “The research shows that

Art Nouveau city of Ålesund, the

direct

those in the Latin American market need

medieval city of Trondheim with its

experience of Latin America was heavily

to invest in agents. Lack of knowledge

spectacular Nidaros Cathedral, the

weighted towards a handful of countries,

and confidence is affecting the way and

famously narrow Trollfjord and

with Mexico the most visited followed by

frequency with which agents sell the

Norway’s capital, Oslo.

the Dominican Republic and Cuba.

destination. There’s no doubt that first-

‘average’ or ‘poor’ and just 11% rated it as ‘excellent’.

The

recipients’

When agents were asked what the biggest barriers to selling Latin American

hand

experience

translates

into

passionate selling.” lata.org

Prices lead in at £1,930pp including flights. The tour departs daily until September 30 2016.

Taberhols.co.uk

NEWS TO USE IN BRIEF Vietnam visa: Vietnam’s government

Change in Anguilla: The Viceroy

Indonesia on the rise: Indonesia

has extended its visa exemption

Anguilla will become a Four Seasons

experienced a wave of UK visitors in

programme for UK passport holders

property from October 2016. Set

the first four months of the year, (up

until June 30 2017. This applies for

between the beaches of Meads Bay

28% on 2015). The figures were driven

single-entry stays of up to 15 days. The

and Barnes, it has five restaurants and

by a visa-free policy for British nationals

policy was first introduced on July 1

lounges and three swimming pools.

as well as an uplift in flight capacity

2015. Vietnam Airlines’ now flies daily

The hotel will close between August

such as Garuda Indonesia’s direct

from Heathrow

and October.

flights from Heathrow to Jakarta.

vietnamairlines.com

viceroyhotelsandresorts.com

tourism-indonesia.co.uk

sellingtravel.co.uk

37

38

the review

U.S. welcomes world

JUNE 18-22, NEW ORLEANS

Around 6,000 attendees from 73 countries, including over 1,300 international and domestic travel buyers and 500 media, gathered in New Orleans for the U.S. Travel Association’s 48th annual IPW. Steve Hartridge and Sally Parker report

New Orleans moves ahead

Volcano Bay third park at Universal

Miami Seaquarium opens Penguin Isle

VOLCANO Bay, described as a

MIAMI Seaquarium has opened a

‘radically-innovative’ water theme

major new exhibit, ‘Penguin Isle’,

park, will open next year at

featuring 10 endangered African

Universal Orlando. Themed around

Penguins. Guests come face to

a Pacific island and spanning 28

face with the penguins, viewing

acres, it will be the resort’s third

them both above and below the

park. It will feature a variety of

water through large windows and

experiences across 18 attractions

an underwater swimming tunnel.

including a multi-directional wave

Another new area of the park,

pool with sandy beaches, a winding

‘Conservation Outpost’, provides

river, twisting multi-rider raft rides,

educational

and body slides that drop from the

protecting the Florida manatee

top of the volcano into the waters

and indigenous sea turtles.

information

on

below. A state-of-the-art marquee

“Wildlife centres can no longer

attraction will be revealed at a

afford to be static attractions,”

later date.

said Eric A. Eimstad, Miami

Universal Orlando is to introduce

Seaquarium’s Chief Marketing

a new three-park ‘Explorer’ ticket

Officer. “We operate with four

for

tenets in mind: entertainment,

guests, for

travel

dates

beginning June 1, 2017.

education,

UniversalOrlando.com

community involvement.”

Tucson first U.S. city of gastronomy

IPW host city New Orleans is booming,

number of our traditional economic

show delegates were told.

sectors, our Greater New Orleans

Visitors to the Big Easy spent $7.05

tourism industry is firmly entrenched as

billion in 2015, a 3.5% increase

the state leader in job creation, state

compared to the spending record set in

and local tax generation and as the

TUCSON, Arizona, is the first city

2014, and the city hosted 9.78 million

rapidly expanding catalyst for strong

in the U.S. to be designated a

visitors, a 2.7% increase. Visitors stayed

economic growth – and that benefits

UNESCO City of Gastronomy.

for an average of 4.2 nights and spent

every other business sector...and every

an average of $238pp per day.

Louisianan,” said Perry.

UNESCO

said

Tucson

was

In 2004, New Orleans welcomed 10.1

The city’s mayor, Mitch Landrieu, told

active

million visitors, but after Hurricane

delegates: “Simply put, New Orleans is

preservation and promotion of

Katrina in 2006 numbers fell away to

on a roll. Once again, our city has

native/heritage crops and for the

just 3.7 million. However, visitor

proven to be one of the best places in

wide variety of dining opportunities

numbers have steadily increased and

the world to visit.

available in the area today.

since 2010 visitor spending in the city

selected for its 4,000 years of agricultural

history,

Mary Rittmann, Director of Public and Community Relations

“Thousands of local business owners, artists, musicians, producers, innovators

has risen by nearly 33%.

After hosting IPW, New Orleans

and restaurateurs take pride in offering

for Visit Tucson said: “Tucson has

expects

in

an authentic experience. We keep

several iconic restaurants. For

international tourists for the next three

things fresh and alive here and because

example, El Charro is known as the

years,

of that visitors from across the globe

oldest Mexican restaurant in the

President and CEO of the New Orleans

U.S. continuously operated by one

Convention and Visitors Bureau.

family (since 1922). Visittucson.org

to

see

predicted

an

increase

Stephen

Perry,

come back to us year after year.”

The 2017 version of IPW will take

“With our state facing massive budget deficits and recession in a

place in Washington D.C. from June 3-7.

For details see ipw.com.

sellingtravel.co.uk

conservation

and

miamiseaquarium.com.

“The world is ever more complex…but we must not retreat out of fear; instead we must stay open and we must stay connected. America is not a fortress – and it shouldn’t be” ROGER DOW, PRESIDENT AND CEO, U.S. TRAVEL ASSOCIATION

the review

A taste of Brooklyn

39

Florida towns have history on their side

CIRCLE Line Sightseeing Cruises’ new Hello Brooklyn tour offers a

A SENSE of history, new and

taste of one of New York’s best-

renovated hotels and several new

known boroughs, says the cruise

attractions are seeing the St.

operator’s

Augustine/Ponte

Marketing

Director

Lindsey Gunn.

Vedra

in

northern Florida included on

“A surprising number of visitors

more self-drive itineraries, says

to the Big Apple do not venture

the

beyond Manhattan, but this cruise

Manager, Barbara Golden.

region’s

Communications

offers a completely relaxing and

Located between Daytona Beach

non-intimidating way of learning

and Jacksonville and known as the

all about one of the city’s most

‘Historic Coast’, the area includes

fascinating boroughs,” she said.

historic St. Augustine (the oldest

Launched in May and currently

city in the U.S), the seaside town of

running once a day, the cruise

Ponte Vedra, 42 miles of pristine

sails within 100 feet of the Statue

Atlantic

of Liberty before cutting across New York Harbour’s Upper Bay to the waterfront of Bay Ridge,

Denver starts to rock

Brooklyn, a neighbourhood made

DENVER, the host of IPW in 2018,

famous by disco dancing and John

hopes to attract more visitors on the

Travolta in Saturday Night Fever.

back of winning a clutch of accolades.

The region’s history is explained,

The Mile High City, the fastest growing

beaches

and

many

outstanding golf courses.

“Dating back 450 years we offer something most U.S. destinations cannot: a sense of place and

Communications for Visit Denver.

And tourists are also seeing the appeal: Denver attracted 28.3 million

history,” said Golden.

“For example, this spring the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime

visitors last year, up 9% on 2014.

in the country, was ranked Best Place to

“The list of reasons for visiting

Museum launched a new exhibition

Live in the U.S. by U.S. News & World

Denver is growing,” added Davis. There

called ‘Wrecked’, telling the story of

Report and among the top five

are plenty of urban adventures for all

a Revolutionary War-era shipwreck

products from neighbourhood

‘Healthiest

ages, our farm-to-table cuisine and

off St. Augustine’s coast.”

companies such as Blue Marble

Magazine.

and key sites are pointed out.

Available to buy onboard from a Brooklyn-inspired

menu

are

Ice Cream, Brooklyn Brewery,

U.S. cities’ by Forbes

local craft breweries – Denver brews

New hotel openings include the

“Denver is truly an outdoor city, an

more beer than any other city – are

205-room Courtyard by Marriott

Brooklyn

active city, surrounded by spectacular

becoming well known and we have

at St. Augustine Beach, which

Cured, Brooklyn Gin, Brooklyn

views of the Rocky Mountains.. and that

unique live music venues like the

opened in March, and the Cordova

Roasting Company, Coney Island

offers a sense of general well-being to

famous

Inn, which will start welcoming

Brewery, Junior’s Cheesecake and

both residents and visitors,” said Jesse

Amphitheatre (pictured above).”

guests in historic downtown St.

McClure’s Pickles.

Davis,

visitdenver.com

Augustine in August.

Brooklyn

Cupcake,

Director

of

PR

and

Red

Rocks

Park

and

This autumn, the Wyndham

circleline42.com

Chickasaw Nation has Native goals U.S. We are the 12th largest

central Oklahoma is aiming to be the

federally-recognised Indian tribe

Meanwhile, Sawgrass Marriott

top Native American attraction in the

and run more than 100 festivals

Golf Resort & Spa will soon

U.S., says Paige Williams, Director

where visitors can learn about our

complete a $25-million ‘refresh.’

Corporate Development and Tourism

history, food, culture, and more.”

FloridasHistoricCoast.com

“A key attraction is the Chickasaw

“We have been coming to IPW for

Cultural Centre in Sulphur. We also

seven years and, in terms of tourism,

offer tours, museums and concerts.

are the most proactive tribe in the

chickasaw.net

IPW NEWS IN BRIEF Explore upstate: New York State is

Inflight fashion: Eighty-five years of

Backcountry Idaho: Glamping in a

encouraging international visitors to

airline fashion are currently on view at

yurt this winter is a product being

sign up to its four-night Wine, Water

San Francisco International Airport.

pushed by Idaho Tourism. This modern

and Wonders of Upstate New York tour.

Presented by SFO Museum, ‘Fashion In

adaption of the ancient shelters used

The itinerary takes in New York City,

Flight: A History of Airline Uniform

by nomads combines comfort with a

Niagara Falls, Rochester, the Finger

Design’

flight

rugged backcountry experience. Yurts

Lakes, and Corning (home to the

attendant attire from 1930 to the

are found across Idaho, with most

Corning

present. It runs until January 8, 2017.

reachable by well-groomed trails.

Flysfo.com

visitidaho.org

Winewaterwonders.com

of

Glass).

Sebastian River, will open with 95

THE Chickasaw Nation in south-

Commerce for the tribe.

Museum

Garden Inn, on St. Augustine’s San

presents

female

sellingtravel.co.uk

guest suites.

40

the review

Checking out...

HOTELS / RESORTS / TRAIN JOURNEYS / CRUISES / AIRPORT REVIEWS

S T A Y : K W E S T HO T E L & S PA – LONDON

BY STEVE HARTRIDGE

THE BACKGROUND: This stylish 219-

room four-star boutique hotel, which had a major redesign in 2014, occupies an elegant townhouse that once housed a recording studio and offices for the BBC. Its rock ‘n’ roll past lives on in many of the artworks hanging in the building and the steady flow of celebrity guests – some of whom perform at the nearby O2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire.

THE LOCATION: In a quiet residential area, K West is a short walk from the tube and overground stations at Shepherd’s Bush.

THE ROOM: I stayed in a 366 sq ft Executive Double (no room at the hotel is smaller than 200 sq ft). With its warm neutral colours and ambient down-lighting, it was classy but homely.

Features included a work desk, couch and 42-inch TV. There was also a tablet in the room, with free wifi and a bedside

‘handy’ loaded with information on both the hotel and London attractions.

KEY FACILITIES: The spa – voted Best Spa in London at the Good Spa Awards 2015 – features a hydrotherapy pool, samarium, sauna, dry flotation tank and a herbal steam room. But the standout features are a ‘Sun Meadow’ that offers specialist light therapy to treat Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and London’s first ‘Snow Paradise’, which replicates the Scandinavian practice of alternating between steamy and freezing environments.

RESTAURANTS/BARS: On the fourth floor, Studio Kitchen is casual and informal – but that doesn’t detract from the excellence of the fare on offer. My ‘superfoods’ salad and prawn linguine were superb. On the menu was a good range of burgers and sandwiches and U.S. inspired side dishes like bacon mac ‘n’ cheese and sweet potato ‘fries’. My á

THE VERDICT This is a hotel that actuslly deserves the tag ‘boutique’.

It has several quirky and one-off features and pulls off the difficult trick of offering quality and excellence whilst remaining informal and comfortable – I saw someone in their spa robe heading down to breakfast. Although just a three-minute walk to

la carte-ordered breakfast was also a cut above the standard buffet fare.

On the third floor, next to reception, The Studio Bar serves a good range of cocktails, guest gins and craft lagers.

I liked the relaxed but chic ambience created by the booth seating and industrial style hanging lamps.

Shepherd’s Bush, the setting and ambience is extremely tranquil.

RATES: Prices start from £125 per room a night, with suites starting at £540 a night.

k-west.co.uk; 020 8008 6600

S T A Y : JA O C E AN V I E W –, DU BAI

BY LISA MERRIGAN

THE BACKGROUND: The hotel is part

of the JA Resorts & Hotels portfolio of luxury properties in Dubai, which also includes the JA Jebel Ali Beach Hotel, JA Palm Tree Court and the JA Oasis Beach Tower apartments. Each is designed to offer distinctive accommodation while reflecting the group’s Arabian heritage.

THE LOCATION: Set on Jumeirah Beach, along The Walk, in the Dubai Marina area this modern high-rise

hotel is a two-minute walk from the beach, 10 minutes from Ibn Battuta Mall and 20 minutes from the indoor mountain sports centre of Ski Dubai and Mall of the Emirates.

There are also more than 300 restaurants, cafes and shops easily accessible along The Walk, including those located in the new Beach Mall located opposite.

THE ROOM: The hotel has 342 rooms in five different room types.

My Superior Sea View Room, on the sixth floor, was a spacious 38sqm. Its balcony ensured impressive views of the beach and the blue waters of the Arabian Gulf. The décor was a contemporary blue, green and white, and facilities included a sofabed, 47-inch TV, Nespresso coffee maker and complimentary wifi. My favourite extra was the pillow menu deigned to ensure that if your pillow isn’t quite to your liking you have other options to order to maximise your night’s sleep!

The bathroom was a decent size and included a range of Elemis amenities.

KEY FACILITIES:The infinity-edged pool had stunning sea views and direct access to the beach, and the brand-new JA Wibit Waterpark, located at the JA Jebel Ali Golf Resort, can be accessed by hotel guests via a complimentary shuttle service. There was also a hairdressing salon, Elemis spa and gym.

RESTAURANTS/BARS: Tea, coffee and light snacks are served in the Italian Café Via (open 24 hours), and Le Rivage is a French brasserie-style restaurant.

The poolside café, The Deck, overlooks the sea and serves cocktails and light snacks while the Sehr Al Bahr restaurant offers Arabic mezze, fresh grills and live entertainment during the winter months. The Girders pub is a buzzing spot with great drinks deals, live sports channels, music and budget brunches as well as a small, atmospheric terrace garden. jaresortshotels.com; +971 4 814 5599

sellingtravel.co.uk

T H E V E R D I CT This is a stylish and contemporary hotel with comfortable rooms and modern facilities. It is a superb choice for an unforgettable Dubai stay.

Excellent!

RATES: Nightly rates start from £70, for a standard room in August 2016.

company company profile profile

41

TALKING TO ...

Titan E

scorted tour specialist Titan prides itself on going the extra mile for both agents and travellers.

We chat to Agency Sales Manager Edwina Coppock about how they do it and what’s in store for the future What sets Titan aside from other tour operators? Our holidays are created solely with the needs and interests of British travellers in mind. With our award-winning VIP Home Departure Service, our customers’ holidays really do begin the moment they close their front door, while our friendly and experienced tour managers accompany the tour group throughout, making sure everything runs smoothly at all times.

What does Titan do to support agents? We have a dedicated agency sales team of five ladies, led by me!

Our passionate team offers full support with three staff on the road full-time. They always try to be available for personal training, travel shows and joint consumer events. We also have a dedicated trade website (titanagents.co.uk) which has the latest news, offers and online training. But nothing beats personal recommendation, so we take up to 100 agents away on our special fam trips every year.

What are your top-selling products and why? California and the Golden West is our flagship tour and our most popular adventure for almost 30 years. Over 50,000 Titan travellers have enjoyed it and some as many as 20 times! Titan has always led the way

in USA touring, and our experience and expertise is perfectly distilled in this itinerary.

Other tours hot on its heels include Southern Sights and Sounds (a wonderful introduction to America’s Deep South), Grand Designs of Portugal, Treasures of Italy and our iconic ‘grand’ tours, such as Grand Tour of South America, which take in the highlights of an entire continent. Grand tours are perfect once-in-a-lifetime holidays.

What does the future hold for Titan? We’re just about to recruit two new members of agency sales, who will join the on-theroad team. New for 2017 is our Essentials Collection, offering our customers exceptional value for money. These tours are slightly shorter in duration and have slightly fewer inclusions – There is no VIP door-to-door service for example.

There will be 12 essential collection tours including Burma, Japan, China, Canada, the USA and three in Europe. Also new for 2017 is an exclusive-to-Titan four-star river cruise vessel, MS Serenade 1, sailing the romantic Rhine and mighty Danube. We look forward to developing evermore unusual and memorable travel experiences and we see our relationship with agents prospering even more. We’ve generated record trade sales and commissions every year for the past five years, so long may that continue!

sellingtravel.co.uk

“Mature travellers are becoming more adventurous in their choice of destination, which is exciting for Titan. We’ve recently introduced the likes of Uzbekistan and Ethiopia to our portfolio” EDWINA COPPOCK, AGENCY SALES MANAGER

COMPANY HISTORY: Founded in Reigate by brothers Irwin and Hugh Ferry, Titan started by offering coach tours of the UK. In 2009 it was acquired by Acromas Holdings as a sister company of Saga.

YEAR FORMED: 1978 USPS/SPECIALIST AREAS: Escorted tours with top-quality tour managers and a unique doorto-door service

THE BEST-SELLING CALIFORNIA AND THE GOLDEN WEST 16-DAY FULLY ESCORTED TOUR OFFERS WEST COAST CHARM WITH LAS VEGAS AND YOSEMITE. WITH VIP DOOR-TO-DOOR SERVICE, 13 EXCURSIONS AND A TOUR MANAGER INCLUDED, THIS STARTS AT £1899PP SAMPLE PACKAGE

titantravel.co.uk

42

maldives

island Desert

mix

The Maldives should be on the bucket list of every love-struck couple, luxury seeker, foodie or marine explorer, says Kathryn Liston

M

y heart skips a beat, just for a second.

I am snorkelling in a couple of feet of water, my face firmly glued to the feast of colourful fish weaving in and out of the seabed at the Meeru Island Resort & Spa. Out of the corner of my mask, I see a much larger object in the distance.

I turn my head towards the oncoming creature and I can’t believe my eyes.

It is a reef shark, its pointy nose leading the way. It’s a little way off but easy to see through the clear warm waters of the Maldives.

It’s the last thing I expect to see in such shallow water and this close to the beach.

I take a sharp intake of breath and stop moving altogether, hanging on the sea’s surface trying to be as inconspicuous as I can. Jaws, the movie, floods my mind. Thankfully, my logic kicks in, reminding me that reef sharks are usually harmless, though I later find out that they do occasionally bite legs in shallow water.

sellingtravel.co.uk

maldives

43

Panic over, I continue to watch this fabulous beast, its body zig-zagging through the clear sea water like a snake. Thankfully, it is quite small but it is moving quickly. I have never been face to face with a shark before. It is the most amazing sight.

Sought-after experiences Snorkelling and diving are two of the Maldives’ main attractions but over-water villas and spas, underwater restaurants and submarines mean that visitors can get up close to the stunning corals and fish without even having to get their feet wet.

Resort house reefs are often just a step away from your bedroom, plus there are guided snorkelling, diving and submarine trips on offer throughout the islands.

The world’s largest underwater restaurant is the proud boast of Harawalhi, the Maldives’ first adult-only hotel, which should open in November.

It will offer guided diving and snorkelling trips and a PADI five-star training centre.

The Indian Ocean’s turquoise waters are not its only attraction. Butler-service hotels, luxurious romantic hideaways, fine-dining restaurants and wellness tree houses and spas continue to attract the jet-set, honeymooners, special occasion visitors and the well-heeled.

Families are well catered for too. Deborah Wadhams, Senior Product Manager Indian Ocean at Travel 2, recommends the five-star Centara Grand Island Maldives for its children’s pool, kids clubs and E-Zone for teenagers.

The new two-bedroom beach houses at the four-star Kuramathi Island Resort are ideal for families and groups travelling together.

Dive World has introduced guesthouses on Maafushi and Guraidhoo islands.

Perfect ten Sea views: It’s not every night you dine 5.8 metres under the sea, but at Harawalh’s new underwater restaurant, that is exactly what you’ll be able to do.

This page, clockwise from top left: A woman in traditional dress; outdoor dining at Anantara Kihavah Villas; Centara Grand Island Maldives; Anantara Kihavah villa pool.

Singing for supper: At Jumeirah Yellow submarine: You won’t be able to Dhevanafushi, you can learn to fish with a stop yourself singing this Beatles song hand line the Maldivian way and feast on the when you visit the Madivaru reef in the Kuramathi catch afterwards.

Island Resort’s new submarine - though it’s red.

Barefoot dining: Enjoy the sand between What’s new your toes indoors and out at the new  Hotels: The Baglioni Hotel Maldives Baglioni Resort Maldives. Some of restaurants (baglionihotels.com) opens in 2017 on the have sand floors - which means you will never private island of Maagu. It will offer 99 have to leave the beach.

In for a tweet: Five new Wellness villas, four family beach villas, three Treehouses at Amilla Sushi come with restaurants a dive centre and kids club. infinity an pool looking over the tree canopy, Amari’s first Maldives property, Amari Havodda outdoor showers and Maldives (milaidhoo.com), opened in January on luxury spa treatments.

“The Maldives is a perfect Michelin Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll year-round destination as the with 120 overwater masterchef: Spice up your cooking and beach villas and islands enjoy sunshine all with a culinary one of the islands’ year. The driest months are masterclass from largest infinity pools.

May to October and the Germany’s youngest The boutique warmest time is January Michelin-star chef Milaidhoo Island to March” Philipp Stein at Coco Maldives (amari. com)– a member Bodu Hithi (August 5-22).

JOANNE LOWERY, PRODUCT MANAGER, INDIAN OCEAN, GOLD MEDAL Turning turtle: of Small Luxury Nurse injured sea Hotels of the World turtles at Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu’s new Olive – is set in Baa Atoll’s UNESCO Biosphere Ridley Project Turtle Rescue Centre.

Reserve with 50 butler-service villas, each Two for one: Include a stopover in Dubai with freshwater pools, and two restaurants. with Emirates, Abu Dhabi with Etihad or Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa (hideawayspamaldives.com) has launched day and night Sri Lanka with Sri Lankan Airlines.

Floatation therapy: Watch the fish swim excursions to its reef on The Penguin submarine. beneath you at Jumeirah Dhevanafushi’s Gili Lankanfushi (gili-lankanfushi.com) has teamed up with Tropicsurf to offer surfing lessons for all over-water Talise Spa. Hold your breath: Abandon the heavy ages and levels. Lessons start at $125 an hour. tanks, learn how to dive like the locals at Jumeirah Dhevanafushi (jumeirah.com) has launched the Maldives’ first PADI-certified free diving school a five-year anniversary offer which includes a at Anantara’s Dhigu Maldives Resort, Veli Maldives complimentary upgrade to half-board on fivenight stays in a Beach Revive Villa. The package Resort and Naladhu Maldives.

sellingtravel.co.uk

44

maldives

SPECIAL OFFERS ANANTARA DHIGU MALDIVES

35% OFF: Book 45 days prior to arrival Valid for stays between 01 – 30 Sept 16 FREE NIGHTS: Stay 4 Pay 3 / Stay 7 Pay 5 Valid for stays between now – 27 Dec 16 EXCLUSIVE HONEYMOON/ REPEATER/LONG STAY OFFERS ALSO AVAILABLE

REETHI BEACH RESORT MALDIVES

costs $5,555 and is valid to September 30.

Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas (anantara.com) has added three-bedroom beach pool residences which can accommodate up to six adults and two children with prices from £8,530 a night.  Operators: Travel 2 (travel2.com) has introduced the new OZEN by Atmosphere at Maadhoo, which opened on July 15 with 90 villas and a dine-around programme. The resort, which is 35 minutes by speedboat from Male, offers a diving school, snorkelling, windsurfing and a kids club.

LAST MINUTE SUMMER SPECIALS : Discounted Rates and Meal Supplements!!

Complimentary Transfer for 2 Children!!

Valid for stays between now - 30 Sept 16 DIVE OFFER : Receive 2 Complimentary Dives when booking a course Valid for selected dates between now – 30 Sept 16

HERITANCE AHUNGALLA SRI LANKA

Book 45 days prior to arrival and receive 15% Discount on Room Rates Valid for stays from now – 31 Oct 17 COMBINABLE WITH: FREE NIGHTS: Stay 7 Pay 5 / Stay 14 Pay 10 Valid for stays from 01 Sept – 15 Oct 16, 01 May – 31 Jul 17 and 01 Sept – 31 Oct 17

Tourism talk “The Maldives continues to grow for Gold Medal. We have seen some significant increases for a number of years. There is a wide variety of hotels in the Maldives, everything ranging from three-star to luxurious five-star-deluxe.

“More and more new hotels are beginning to pop up, which is why the Maldives continues to see an increase of visitors year on year. This is one of the reasons why hoteliers are having to look at ways of differentiating themselves from each other because if you haven’t been to Maldives before, you would understandably think that all of the islands are the same.

“Spa is also a huge focus for the Maldives - and it would be very difficult to find an island without a spa.

“Emirates, BA and Sri Lankan Airlines fly to the Maldives; I would recommend stopping off for a couple of nights in Dubai on the way out.”

Joanne Lowery, Product Manager – Indian Ocean, Gold Medal

THE SUN SIYAM IRUFUSHI MALDIVES

AMAZING STAFF INCENTIVE BOOK 70 Room Nights for your clients and receive: 7 Nights accommodation for 2 Adults on BB Basis Valid for bookings taken from now for travel throughout 2016 and 2017 Excluding Peak Season – Contact us for more information ALSO FIND EXCLUSIVE DEALS FOR TRAVEL TRADE PERSONNEL ONLY ON OUR WEBSITE

Where to book it

OVER 200 HOTELS AND A SELECTION OF TOURS AVAILABLE ON OUR WEBSITE MALDIVES - SRI LANKA - MAURITIUS - SEYCHELLES INDIA - UAE – CARIBBEAN- GREECE- NEW CRUISING AND SAILING. INCLUDING EXCLUSIVE OFFERS FOR SUMMER 2016 WINTER 2016/17 RATES ARE NOW ONLINE

www.osborneandebel.com All above offers are subject to availability.

Pictured: Snorkelling the clear-blue waters

 TRAVEL 2 – 0800 0224 182 A seven-night all-inclusive stay at the five-star Centara Grand Island Resort & Spa starts from £1,749pp and includes international and domestic flights and speedboat transfers. The price is based on two adults and two children sharing. travel2.com 

Terms & Conditions Apply

sellingtravel.co.uk OE-July.indd 1

04/07/2016 11:19

46

regional profile

North Lake Tahoe - For year-round adventures -

H

ome to the highest concentration of ski resorts in North America, North Lake Tahoe is a world class wintersports destination increasingly turning heads for its summer and off-season breaks too

North Lake Tahoe has no less than 12 ski resorts, easily connected and with opportunities to suit all ski levels and wintersports styles plus a vast range of off-mountain activities, festivals and culinary options for year-round adventures.

At its heart is Lake Tahoe, a crown jewel of the Sierra. Formed approximately two million years ago, this is the largest alpine lake in North America and the second deepest in the United States, and it’s simply stunning.

Much of the lake’s key attractions are within the North Lake Tahoe region which spans two states, has two dozen beaches, twelve ski resorts, hundreds of miles of biking trails, half a dozen thriving communities, plus a growing number of nationally-recognised events, races and festivals.

“Beyond the attractions of the great outdoors, North Lake Tahoe is a paradise for foodies with an excellent range of farmto-table restaurants serving delicious local produce”

Easily accessible, North Lake Tahoe is a 45-minute drive from the Reno Tahoe International Airport, two hours from Sacramento International Airport or just over three hours from San Francisco International Airport.

The North Lake Tahoe Express then offers three routes direct to the key resorts from Reno Airport for easy onward transfers which are all pre-bookable and commissionable.

WINTERSPORTS HEAVEN For wintersports fans, the quality of the high alpine snow sets this region apart and the fabulous lake views from many of its resorts make skiing and boarding here a breathtaking experience.

Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows is the largest ski resort and offers two mountains under one ski pass. While known for its more expert terrain, Squaw offers a variety of trails for all skiers and boarders of all levels. Beginners also have the extra special experience of taking in lake views from the beginner hills located near the top of Squaw’s peaks. The resort offers 6000 acres of skiing with 270 trails, 23 bowls and 42 lifts.

sellingtravel.co.uk

Well-established Northstar California, is Vail owned. The resort has a luxury image and lays on the style with a complimentary champagne toast each day on the mountain and complimentary smores - a marshmallow treat served toasted on graham crackers with milk chocolate. Northstar California has the largest snowmaking system in the region with Nordic and snowshoe trails, 20 lifts and a 9000sqft ice skating rink.

Mt Rose is Lake Tahoe’s highest base resort and the closest to Reno Airport, with both daring verticals and family freindly beginner slopes; while Sugar Bowl is best known for its extensive cross country skiing opportunities and ski-in, ski-out access.

Homewood Mountain Resort is famed for the stunning views offered from its trails and also offers over 750 acres of guided snowcat terrain. Diamond Peak also has stunning views of the lake and offers free skiing for under six year olds and highly-affordable lift passes.

In addition to the 12 downhill resorts there are also seven cross country resorts and incredible off-piste terrain with jaw-dropping views, wilderness solitude and plenty of perfect powder.

regional profile

47

Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows Squaw is the largest ski resort in North Lake Tahoe.

Two mountains – located at the top of the mountain, so even beginners get an extraordinary ski experience and great view.

BEYOND THE RESORTS When the skis come off, the ice skates, snowmobiles, snow tubes and fat tyre bikes can take centre stage before hotel tubs, spas, yoga wind-downs and the apres ski begins.

Granlibakken resort above Tahoe City is among the best for sledding and offers saucer rentals, while Soda Springs Winter Resort on Donner Summit has a more extreme option with its snow tubing area, Tube Town, and Planet Kids, which includes a play area (for children aged eight and under) with tubing lanes, tube carousels and a climbing volcano.

For those seeking more power than gravity provides, specialists around the lake provide snow-mobiling options. The Resort at Squaw Creek offers powerful adventures of another kind including dogsledding and horse-drawn sleigh rides.

North Lake Tahoe is also home to numerous winter festivals including the North Lake Tahoe SnowFest with a multitude of events scheduled each March and the WinterWonderGrass Tahoe, held in April in Squaw Valley. This worldclass winter music and beer festival features bluegrass bands and acoustic roots artists, complemented by dozens of California craft breweries, local wines, spirits and foods.

From high alpine resort venues to sandy beaches, the North Lake Tahoe High Notes series also offers a hot live music lineup year round.

“North Lake Tahoe is a complete adventure playground for all ages and interests. The choice of activities offered is vast from high adrenaline wintersports, sledding and ice skating in winter to hiking, biking and kayaking in summer” restaurants set around the lake and offering fresh and organic local produce on expansive menu selections which capture the essence of northern California and Nevada’s flavours.

There is no shortage of wine to enjoy along the North Shore or for those who prefer a cold beer, Mellow Fellow in Crystal Bay, features 40 craft beers on tap.

Dining options are endless from fine to casual, eclectic to familiar with the biggest challenge being choosing where to go.

A summer-long lineup of free concerts and big ticket names adds further to the buzz appearing al fresco as well as in legendary venues and intimate pubs.

Travel out of peak season and the deals on offer add further value, or in autumn and the fall colours add a further dimension to the lakeside views.

YEAR-ROUND DESTINATION It’s not just the fabulous snows that draw visitors to North Lake Tahoe, in the summer months the mountains provide the perfect backdrop for hiking and biking and some impressive golf courses, while the lakeside beaches are perfect for lazy days swimming, paddleboarding or kayaking, or for a cruise aboard the Tahoe Gal out of Tahoe City.

The food culture is a year-round attraction too.

From brunch menus of beignets, steak and eggs, breakfast burritos and mimosas to farm-to-table

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Northstar California Vail owned, this luxury resort includes complimentary champagne on the slopes each day and the ski pass gives access to other Vail properties too. It has the regions longest run - 1.4 miles.

Sugarbowl Offering ski in, ski out access, this is a great back country ski resort with easy access to Noth America’s largest network of cross country skiing.

Nine warming huts are alos dotted across 6000+ acres Homewood or Diamond Peak Said to be Tahoe’s most beautiful resort, Homewood has unbelievable views of Lake Tahoe; while Diamond Peak has great views and a family-friendly focus.

Mount Rose Tahoe’s most long established resort, Mount Rose is also the closest to Reno Airport and ideal for beginners and families.

It is Tahoe’s highest base resort at 8260ft and offers infamous vertical chutes and over 60 ski trails.

happy news!

Fiji welcomed 159,069 visitors internationally during the first quarter of 2016, representing a growth in arrivals of 10.2%.

Fiji Airways An interline agreement has been signed between Fiji Airways and Singapore Airlines. Fiji Airways now operates twice weekly from Singapore on Wednesdays and Saturdays using the A330-200. The frequency from Hong Kong to Fiji has increased to five times weekly. A new twice weekly service (seasonal from June to August and December/January) commenced from San Francisco to Fiji.

FAM trip

Events

Tourism Fiji hosted a FAM trip in June. Left to right: Joe Apsey (Flight Centre Travel Group), Queenie Li (United Travel Birmingham), Ruth Lansdell (Tourism Fiji), Gwyneth Prosser and Gwynneth Voyias from (Travel Counsellors) and Olivia (Alys) Carter (Infinity Holidays). Agents visited the Mamanuca Islands, Captain Cook Cruises, Qamea Island – Taveuni, Coral Coat resorts Nanuku Auberge, Intercontinental. They also visited Royal Davui, enjoyed a famous Kava ceremony with a chief on the Sigatoka River Safari. In Denarau near Nadi, they stayed at the Sofitel, where they took part in a Flavours of Fiji cooking school.

Look out for our Flying Fijians in Rio when Rugby 7s makes its debut at the Olympics this year. Good luck boys!

PGA Australia golfing event, the Fiji International will take place from 6-9 October 2016 at the Natadola Bay Championship Golf Course on the Coral Coast. 2016 will mark the first time this event has been included in the European tour. Nearest resorts are the Intercontinental and Yatule.

2016 ISA World StandUp Paddle and Paddleboard Championship will be hosted in Fiji from 12-20 November, 2016

Matai means

“expert” in Fijian. Become a qualified specialist on www.matai.fiji.travel by 31 August and you could be jetting off to Fiji on an all- expenses paid FAM trip in October, courtesy of Tourism Fiji.

The runner up will receive two tickets to a rugby match when Fiji comes to the UK in November and additional prizes include a month’s supply of Fiji water.

Road show round up Sincere thanks to all the agents who attended our roadshows in Belfast, Guernsey and Jersey accompanied by Fiji Airways, Rosie Holidays, Pacific Destinations, Captain Cook and Blue Lagoon Cruises, Tokoriki Island, First Landing and Outrigger Resorts. We have 100 new destination- trained agents. Our warrior David also took time to demonstrate the “Bole” rugby and “Meke” dancing and the kava ceremony.

For more information: Contact www.fiji . travel or call 0800 652 2158

fiji

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power flower

Far-flung Fiji is no longer just a stopover for those heading Down Under. For couples and families making the long journey, a tropical paradise awaits, says Laura Gelder

A

s our boat chuggs away from Beachcomber, the last audible strains of dance music float away on the salty breeze and we look eagerly to the next island.

We do not exactly have to squint because Treasure Island is just the one kilometre away – we have been looking at it curiously for the last few days, wondering at how quiet it seems.

Beachcomber is the party island, a mecca for backpackers and hedonists who come to dance the night away and drive the cobwebs away the next day with a fast and furious banana boat ride followed by some hair of the dog.

Aside from the white sand and smiling staff, Treasure Island couldn’t be more different. The atmosphere is laid-back and serene. Guest rooms are dotted discreetly just back from the beach in

the cool of the palm trees and you’re more likely to be handed a cool towel than a shot of vodka!

But that’s the beauty of the Mamanucas, the closest island chain to ‘mainland’ Viti Levu – you don’t have to hop far for a total change of scene.

Know your audience Exotic Fiji is a great alternative to the beaches of the Caribbean, Indian Ocean and Far East.

Sell boutique resorts and private island retreats to couples and in particular to honeymooners wanting to splash out. Independent travellers and backpackers will be attracted to the brilliant island-hopping and can choose between lazing on the beach or trying adventurous pursuits like trekking, skydiving, ziplines and 4WD. Those with marine hobbies can try cruising

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and crewed yachting, diving with 100-plus PADI schools, world-class surfing and loads more.

Perfect ten Beach life: Stunning beaches and a laidback lifestyle are the main draw and visitors don’t have to venture far. Even the coral coast, near Nadi, is picture perfect.

The life aquatic: The soft coral capital of the world has 1,000 species of fish and several hundred types of coral and sponges. Fiji’s Astrolabe Reef is the world’s fourth largest.

Island life: Visitors can sample Fijian culture with a tour to a village, attending a kava ceremony (to taste a mildly narcotic drink made from powdered root) or seeing a cultural performance.

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fiji

Tee time: Fiji produced one of the world’s top golfers, Vijay Singh, and has 14 golf courses, including Viti Levu’s three 18-hole, 72-par championship courses.

Natural highs: Trekkers can enjoy mountain ranges, river gorges, mangroves and rainforest, discovering waterfalls, unique birds and animals. Rare endemic species include the Fiji crested iguana and the colourful Kadavu parrot.

Adrenaline rush: White-water rafting, off-road buggies, sky diving, surfing, game fishing for marlin and galloping a horse along the beach are just a few ways to get this.

Cruise control: Social types can hop around the Mamanucas’ world-class resorts, while the nearby Yasawas are less developed but give a taste of Fijian culture. To sample Fiji’s colonial side, cruise around Ovalau.

Wedded bliss: Vows can be taken on the beach, in a wedding chapel or amongst tropical flowers in a garden.

Ultimate luxury: Owned by billionnaire Dietrich Mateschitz, co-owner of Red Bull, Laucala Island is considered within the top three most luxurious island resorts in the world.

Shopping: Fijian souvenirs include carved wooden bowls, woven goods such as mats, baskets, purses and fans, traditional tapa cloths and pottery.

What’s new  Airlines: Fiji Airways (fijiairways.com) has launched new services from Singapore to Fiji and from San Francisco to Fiji. Tourists from the UK travelling to Fiji can also connect onto Fiji Airways flights in Hong Kong, Australia, New Zealand, Hawaii and Los Angeles.  Accommodation: The four-star Doubletree Hilton (hilton.com) recently re-opened its doors on the Coral Coast, with its 120 guest rooms and bures refurbished.

Pictured, clockwise from top left: Vatuvara Private Islands; Kokomo Island Resort; lazing at the beach; a friendly Fijian

Tourism talk The Six Senses Hotel Resort Spa on Malolo “UK guests stay longer in Fiji than most Island (sixsenses.com) opens in 2017. Situated on a 650m private beach, accommodation others (average 13 nights) and normally will be in 26 spacious pool bures (villas) all commit to a two- to three-centre holiday. with private plunge pools and the resort will “The islands are still largely sold as a stop-over. have a spa offering pioneering treatments However with the addition of Hong Kong and now and two restaurants plus an outdoor pizzeria Singapore as new Fiji Airways routes, we are seeing and grill, three bars, a gourmet food market a trend of business plus leisure, with Fiji being the and a walk-in wine cellar and tasting table. end destination. Fiji combines very well with the Luxury villa retreat Vatuvara (vatuvara.com) is U.S., using the Fiji Airways service from Los Angeles the first resort to open (eight times a week) and in the remote Lau the new gateway from “The Coral Coast is very group, only normally San Francisco. visited by Captain “You can combine Fiji popular with the UK due Cook cruises a few with any US city including to its proximity to the airport times a year. Accessed Las Vegas and also Fiji and being able to fit in with by private plane, the Airways via Hawaii. all flight arrivals and resort features one-bed Korean Air offers departures” villas all with generous combinations with Japan, en suite bathrooms, a Seoul and Fiji which is REBECCA TURNER, PRODUCT MANAGER, PACIFIC, GOLD MEDAL kitchen, indoor dining proving popular. “Agents and living room area, a should register for matai. villa spa, tropical courtyard and bionised heated fiji.travel to become qualified experts on Fiji with pool, indoor and outdoor showers, wifi and prioritisation for fam trips.” satellite TV. There are two restaurants on-site.

Jane West, Regional Director UK/ Europe, Kokomo Island Fiji (kokomoislandfiji.com) opens Tourism Fiji. this December. It describes itself as having “chic, contemporary accommodation and facilities, Where to book it while embracing environmental sustainability  TRAVEL 2 – 0800 0224 182 and traditional Fijian culture and design” .

Four nights at the Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort, Coral Coast, and three nights at Another island paradise due to open the four-star Castaway Island Resort, in early 2016 is Vunabaka (vunabaka.com) on the private tropical island of Malolo.

Mamanuca Islands (both on a room-only The resort has 100 acres of hilltop, marina, basis) starts from £2,669pp including return ocean and beachfront sites centred around flights from London and all transfers. travel2.com  a five-star boutique hotel – Island Grace. sellingtravel.co.uk

a warM fijian welcome

beFore yOu Arrive

With a route network that spans 21 destinations in 12 countries, our airline provides unequalled access to the Pacific, Australia and New Zealand through our hub in Nadi, Fiji. Travellers from Europe will find convenient flights departing to Fiji and beyond from Singapore, Hong Kong and Los Angeles with up to 11 flights per week using Airbus A330 aircraft, offering world-class service in both Business and Economy class. Fiji Airways is also a partner in the Qantas Frequent flyer, American Airline Advantage and Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan programs and members can earn and redeem points.

For more details and the latest fares and schedules, contact us on europe@fijiairways.com or call +35623981111. For Fiji Airways Reservations, call +6793304388.

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focus on

Falkland Islands – Splendid isolation –

I

t may be remote but the Falkland Islands are far from dull, thanks to its prolific wildlife. But that’s not the only draw, discovers Laura Gelder Split into two main islands, the Falklands archipelago lies in the South Atlantic, about 300 miles east of South America's Patagonian coast.

The landscape is often stark, rugged and severe, but the culture is decidedly British.

Visitors can reach the Falklands on the weekly LAN Airways flight, via Chile, or a charter flight operated twice-weekly from RAF Brize Norton in the UK by the Ministry of Defence.

A South American or Antarctic cruise is an increasingly popular way of visiting the islands and news that expedition cruise company One Ocean is now operating Antarctic cruises starting or ending in the Falklands has opened the door for add-on stays in the islands.

The Falklands is quite rightly sold for its huge variety and density of wildlife – elephants seals, sea lions, rare birds of prey, albatross and 770,000 penguins, to name but a few. But if you are struggling to articulate the Falkland Islands experience, read on for our top five.

PENGUINS GALORE

place to see them is at Volunteer Point on East Falkland, where their vast numbers add up to quite a spectacular sight.

The comic gentoo penguin is much more widespread and because they nest on low ground they are more accessible to visitors (they are also one of the few breeds to remain during the winter).

Other species include the photogenic rockhoppers, the fiery crested macaroni penguin and the burrowing magellanic penguin.

These lovable but flightless birds are without doubt the star of the show – and there are five species which nest annually on the islands.

One of the most popular is the king penguin.

These are found everywhere but by far the best

Twitchers will be in heaven in the Falklands.

Over 200 species have been recorded in the islands including two endemic: the Cobb’s wren

OTHER WILDLIFE

ONE OCEAN EXPEDITIONS' 16-NIGHT SOUTH GEORGIA IN-DEPTH VOYAGE DEPARTS FROM STANLEY ON OCTOBER 15 2016 AND INCLUDES EIGHT DAYS IN SOUTH GEORGIA BEFORE ENDING IN USHUAIA. FROM $12,395PP, (BASED ON TWO SHARING A TWIN CABIN) INCLUDING FLIGHTS FROM PUNTA ARENAS TO STANLEY, ZODIAC EXCURSIONS, SHIP TRANSFERS. BOOK IT!

and Falklands flightless steamer duck. Over 70% of the world’s black-browed albatross population resides in the islands and many other rare species inhabit the archipelago, some classified globally as 'threatened' or 'endangered'.

West Point island is famous for its vast numbers of black-browed albatross which nest on its spectacular cliffs.

The most coveted mammal for wildlife watchers is the elephant seal, but sea lions and fur seals are also seen and the leopard seal is an occasional visitor. Male elephant seals return early in the summer and are a spectacular sight when battling to establish territories at the start of the breeding season. The hairy, black pups are born mainly during October.

Fourteen species of cetaceans have been recorded in the waters of the Falkland. Peale’s and Commerson’s dolphins are frequently seen along the coast, often following boats. Killer whales are also regularly observed, particularly near large seabird and seal colonies. Sightings of whales usually occur in the summer months, whilst dolphins can be seen year-round.

OUT IN THE COUNTRY Everything outside of the capital, Stanley, is referred to as ‘camp’ by the locals, a term derived from the Spanish word 'campo', or countryside.

Accommodation in camp ranges from tents and self-catering farms to lodges – which offer the

ONEOCEANEXPEDITIONS.COM

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focus on

“A walk around the capital, Stanley, reveals a fascinating maritime history that spans back to the 17th century”

Previous page: a penguin at sunset and Cassard House on Bleaker Island. This page, left to right: The shipwreck of the Lady Elizabeth; a striated caracara swoops; a ruddy-headed goose

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best standard of comfort. Each lodge has its own distinct character and intimate atmosphere, ensuring sociable visitors meet other travellers as well as local characters. Often, guests will eat meals and take expeditions together.

The Islands’ main tourist lodges are located at Port Howard, Darwin, Pebble Island and Sea Lion Island. Self-catering accommodation can be found at a selection of holiday cottages on island farms, and several locations in East and West Falkland. Stanley's principal hotels are The Malvina House and Waterfront Hotel.

Argentina. Port Howard and San Carlos have museums with artifacts from the conflict and North Arm has a history museum Falkland Island Holidays, a Destination Management Company (DMC), has announced that Darwin House Lodge near Goose Green. will now run tailored history tours in the area.The company also offers a seven-night battle tour taking in Darwin, Goose Green, San Carlos, the HMS Coventry Memorial at Pebble Island, Mount Harriet and Argentine and British cemeteries.

UNIQUE HISTORY

Home grown is the order of the day in the Falklands, which is renowned for the quality of its lamb, mutton and beef, all of which is ranched on the wide plains of the islands Top local seafood includes mussels, scallops, local sea trout, Atlantic rock cod (locally called mullet), squid and Patagonian toothfish, often served in brochettes. Other local specialities are upland goose paté and diddle-dee berry or Teaberry jam.

Make sure your clients book in for a ‘smoko’.

Originally meaning a fag break, the phrase is now used to describe tea. Falklands hosts pride themselves on home-made cakes and biscuits. 

FALKLAND FLAVOURS

The first landing on the islands is attributed to the British Captain John Strong, at Bold Cove, Port Howard on West Falkland in 1690.

A walk around Stanley will reveal a maritime history that spans back to the 17th century and signs point out the many shipwrecks which litter the harbour. History buffs can visit the Falkland Islands Museum in Stanley, to see how life in the Falklands has changed over time.

Further out, Darwin and Port Egmont are good for those with an interest in early settlements.

Darwin, Fitzroy and Goose Green have memorials of the 1982 war between Britain and

Tailor-made itineraries Wildlife, Walking, Photography, Fishing, Battlefield and General Interest.

The longest established tour operator in the Falklands

Photographs by Allan White and Joe Lange

Individual and group travel Internal flights, transfers, accommodation, guided tours and excursions.

Offering a wealth of local knowledge of the Falkland Islands along with a personal, professional and friendly service, every step of the journey.

For more information E: info@falklandislandsholidays.com T: (00500) 22622 - F: (00500) 22623 - W: falklandislandsholidays.com

Inspiration. Incentives. Bookings.

July/August 2016

THIS MONTH'S TOP STORIES

Famous five in line for Qatar prizes COMPETITION

Quick Quiz Are you a Thailand expert?

1. The Songkran Festival is held each May TRUE / FALSE

Hot News

2. Crickets and beer is a popular combination on the streets on Chiang Mai

Jewels of the Caribbean

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TAWASH QATAR is giving away amazing prizes to five lucky agents. The prizes are: a fam trip place to Qatar, a spa treatment at the Berkeley, a £200 Harrods gift voucher, afternoon tea at the Shangri-La London and a one-day Middle Eastern cooking class voucher at The Cooking Academy.

To be eligible to win agents must register and complete the Qatar training programme. The qualifying period started June 1 and the competition closes September 1, 2016 tawashqatar.com

Congrats to The Gambia winners!

WINNERS

JEWEL RESORTS is soon to launch a new training programme covering four beautiful resorts - the perfect tool for agents to learn how to sell the accommodation options to families and adults alike. With four topics on Experiences, Activities, Facts and Selling Tips, the programme should be an agent's number one source for information on Jewel Resorts.

To celebrate the official launch, Jewel Resorts will be giving away five-nights at one of its four luxury all-inclusive resorts. jewelresortstraining.com

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Boucan Caribbean Travel Guru Cayman islands Chile England The Gambia – NEW Grenada

Answers: 1: False 2: True

COURSES Anguilla Antigua & Barbuda Aruba Barbados Belmond Botswana

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THE GAMBIA ran an incentive for agents who registered for the new Gambia Guru training programme - and the winners have now been announced!

The star prize of an Aduna Fell Good gift box along with £50 of Love2Shop vouchers feel to Peter Foster.

Congratulations are also due to: Lydna Doherty, Janice Fryer, Emma Goodwin, Cherise Mcainsh, Virginia Gooding, James Pavlou and Caroline Jenkins, who all won £30 of Love2Shop vouchers. Laurie Mathieson received a Hotel Chocolat gift box. gambiaguru.com

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Training courses to help travel agents and advisers sell more!

New flights to Trinbago



FLIGHTS

Destinations

THOMAS COOK will be flying to Tobago from Manchester, starting November this year. The flights are accompanied by the opening of two new resorts on the island, Manta Lodge and Tobago Great House Resort and Spa. A canopy tour of Tobago's Main Ridge Forest will also begin this winter. The three developments are sure to boost tourism to the islands as well as ensure Tobago can accommodate this rise in numbers.

 Tour Operators

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Your incentive

Travelling Thailand

Win a fam trip with GambiaGuru!

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GambiaGuru I Modules: 4

ROADSHOWS

TOURISM THAILAND will host the latest round of Amazing Thailand Roadshows in September. Agents will be able to experience Thai food, Thai massage and meet some of the destination's key hotels, airlines and tour operators in an evening of educational fun.

Prizes, including a fam trip place to Thailand, will be on offer. The roadshows will stop in Tunbridge Wells (September 21) and Guildford (September 22).

WIN! The Gambia Tourism Board is offering one lucky agent the chance to win a place on the fam trip of a lifetime to the West African nation. The trip will take place on November 11-15, and will see agents flying from Gatwick to The Gambia's Banjul International Airport.

The challenge: Agents must complete the new fourmodule GambiaGuru training programme to be entered into the prize draw to win!

Closing date: August 19, 2016 Where to enter: gambiaguru.com

marketing@tourismthailand.co.uk; training.tourismthailand.co.uk

Cruise

 Rail

WIN: HOTEL CHOCOLAT CHOCOLATES FIND OUT MORE: NAMIBIAKNOWITALL.COM

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FIND: ZAMBEZI • CHEETAH • HIKING • ETOSHA • HIMBA • TO ENTER: Complete this wordsearch inspired by the Namibia Know it All programme and provide us with your details. Send to Selling Travel Magazine, Suffolk House, George St, Croydon, Surrey, CR9 1SR.

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european winter sports

Off-piste

adventure There’s a lot more to a holiday in the mountains of Europe than skiing and snowboarding, says Anna Maria Espsater

H

itting the slopes in the Austrian resort of Schladming proves a bit of a change from the gentler hills of Sweden, where I grew up.

Last night there was a blizzard, but this morning is a very different story. There is fresh snow, fresh air, and fresh sunshine. What more could I wish for? Well, fresh fitness actually!

Thighs screaming, I have to bail after a couple of hours and have a brief pause. Luckily, LenaAlm mountain hut hs just the right amount of whipped cream on its hot chocolate to put the energy back in my legs. The afternoon continues in the same energetic vein: ski, pause, ski down one of the four peaks in the area. My hotel, Pichlmayrgut, is a grand old dame of a building, turning 900 in 2017 and just happenes to have one of the best spas in the country – what better way to end the day? I start out bravely with the outdoor pool, surrounded by snow, with great views of the

slopes, but that gets a bit nippy. To warm up, the saunas, steam and aromatherapy rooms do the trick. Am I ready for the après-ski? Of course!

Snow business European winter resorts, despite suffering from a few snow issues in recent years, are still going strong with plenty of large-scale investment going into facilities, infrastructure and hotels. France, Austria, Italy and Switzerland remain among the most popular with Brits, but Spain, Andorra, Slovenia, Norway and Bulgaria are also pulling in the winter enthusiasts – and all offer different experiences.

Nowadays winter sports mean so much more than traditional Alpine or cross-country skiing.

New, quirky outdoor pursuits are cropping up each year – great for the more adventurous traveller. Ice climbing, ice fishing, long-distance -skating, dog-sledding or tobogganing are just some of the many activities your clients

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european winter sports

can try. Then there’s snow golf, snow shoeing, snowmobile adventures and relaxing in world-class spas. France has some of the best resorts for foodies; Switzerland offers excellent five-star properties; Spain and the South Tyrol, Italy, are ideal for families with kids, while Norway offers some of the best skiing for the beginner to intermediate skier.

Further south Bulgaria and Romania are great value for money, although the ski season here is slightly shorter. Up north Norway, Sweden and Finland all offer the chance to combine a winter sports holiday with northern lights viewing and cultural pursuits.

Perfect five

is Hotel 4B in Andermatt, Switzerland.

VIP Ski is opening the stylish Hotel Theodul (theodul.at) in Lech, Austria, for the 2016/17 season.  Tour operators: Crystal Ski Holidays (crystalski. co.uk) is adding three European destinations: Levi and Ylläs in Finland and Hochsölden in Austria. Its new programme launched on July 7.

Neilson (neilson.co.uk/ski) offers a choice between Classic and Deluxe tours on its Dolomites Ski Safari this season and is also developing its Mountain Collection of properties.

Inghams (inghams.co.uk) has eight nights for the price of seven, as well as buy one, get one half price lift passes for Espace Killy.  Events: The Alpine World Ski Championships 2017 will take place in St. Moritz, Switzerland, from February 6-19.

Good investments: Countries across Europe are investing in infrastructure at Tourism talk resorts, including new and better lift systems.

Spoilt for choice: Each year the range “Thanks to significant improvement and of resorts gets wider and better. investment many of the ski resorts in Can’t ski, won’t ski? There’s plenty on Austria now host some of the world’s offer for those unwilling to don skis, or best lift systems. Austria offers superb value for just fancy trying something new. money, a host of snow-sure resorts, a season Relax, gourmandise: On and off the stretching from November to April, and of course slopes, many resorts have first-class nosh, benefits by increased flight connections from the and excellent spas.

UK during the winter Kids, couples, season. We are in the beginners, privileged position of “Know your jargon and use pros: Resorts have already being seen as a it when you need to. You upped their game and top winter ski don’t want to confuse your many can cater to all destination, so we need differing requirements, customer, but you must seem to continue focusing on from families with this positive association knowledgeable to the repeat young kids, to the in the minds of British winter sport enthusiast” après-ski party crowd. holidaymakers.

ELIZABETH HOLMES, “Austria will host HEAD OF SALES AND SERVICE, CRYSTAL What’s new a stand at WTM in �Resorts: FRANCE November, with many Val d’Isère is into the second phase of its of the country’s top ski resorts represented. two-year redevelopment of the Solaise Several Austrian regions will also be present at Mountain, including three new ‘magic carpet’ the Telegraph Ski and Snowboard Show. Our lifts, a day lodge, and a 10-person bubble lift. main focus, however, is a B2C-focused winter Completion is set for winter 2016/17. In La campaign in London, during which we will Rosière work has begun on another twowork with the UK travel trade to maximise the year project, adding new lifts and pistes. reach of both our and our partners’ activities.”

SWITZERLAND The Saas Valley is getting a Ralph Strampfer, Director. Austrian National new gondola, improving links in the valley.

Tourist Office in the United Kingdom AUSTRIA Arlberg has a new cableway Where to book it link between Zürs and Stuben/Rauz,  CRYSTAL SKI HOLIDAYS – 020 8939 0726 opening this winter, and a new lift is One week’s self-catering at three-star Planibel also being constructed at Stubai.

Apartments in La Thuile, Italy, is from £271pp NORWAY Trysil is getting a new (based on six sharing) including flights from express lift, Skihytta Express, for the Gatwick to Turin and transfers. crystalski.co.uk start of the 2016/17 season.  NEILSON – 0333 014 3351 ITALY San Luis all-inclusive resort, South Tyrol, A week at the Neilson Hotel Del Clos, in El opened last December and is ideal for couples.

Tarter, Andorra, is from £523pp. Departing  Hotels: December will see the opening January 8, 2017, the price includes flights of new four-star hotel Spenglers Davos, from Gatwick, transfers and seven nights’ in Switzerland (spenglersdavos.ch). Previously Hotel Alexander, the hotel will be fully accommodation on a club board basis. neilson.co.uk/ski  renovated. Also set to open at a later date

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From top: The slopes of Schladming, Austria; shopping in the popular French resort of Val d’Isère; ice climbing in the South Tyrol

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how to sell

Argentina

by Laura Geldar

O

ne of South America’s mostvisited countries, Argentina boasts a diverse offering thanks to its size and topography.

Visitors can enjoy rainforest, coast, mountains, wetlands, grasslands, deserts, lakes and glaciers all in one country. The challenge for agents is to work out which itinerary is right for their client.

Why sell it?

Argentina is a no-brainer as an entry point into the region since Brits can fly direct into Buenos Aires with British Airways. Because it’s quite Westernised and well-developed compared to some of its neighbours, it makes a good choice for first-timers and a gentle start to any touring trip.

LATA Chairman Byron Shirto commented: "Argentina has a strong image for the UK traveller and the direct flight to Buenos Aires makes access fairly straightforward. It’s a safe country with a hugely diverse range of tourism offerings. I would encourage agents to look beyond Buenos Aires – which will always be included anyway – and search out the vast experiences across the country, from riding like a gaucho in Cordoba, to whale-watching in the Peninsular Valdes."

Argentine salt flats

Trekking near Salta

What to sell A heady mix of European architecture and Latin American flair, the capital city is brimming with cultural offerings ranging from opera to art.

Visitors can take advantage of its lively nightlife and café scene, enjoy a tango performance or watch a football game. Just outside the capital are vast swathes of grassland and big open skies – the land of the gaucho.

One of the most iconic sights in the country is the astounding Iguazu Falls, which straddles the border between Argentina and Brazil and is surrounded by sub-tropical rainforest.

The Lake District’s deep-blue glacial lakes, snow-capped mountains, flowering meadows and Swiss-style resorts are good for soft adventure. And further south, the big spaces, stark landscapes and lonely roads of South Patagonia are an adventurer's dream, although a handful of high-end resorts let visitors enjoy it in luxury too. The city of Ushuaia, once

Argentina Essentials TIME: -3 GMT FLIGHT TIME: 13-14 hours CURRENCY: Argentine peso LANGUAGE: Spanish BOOK IT: Rainbow Tours offers Northwest Argentina Highlights, a nine-day trip which starts and

ends in Buenos Aires. Travellers fly to Salta and explore the region’s highlights, like Calchaqui Valley, the peculiar rock formation of Shells' Gorge and the World Heritage area of Quebrada de Humahuaca. The trip ends with time in the city. From £2755pp.

SPECIALIST TOUR OPS: journeylatinamerica.co.uk latinroutes.co.uk rainbowtours.co.uk tucantravel.com veloso.com

sellingtravel.co.uk

Argentina’s most feared penal colony, is now the world’s southernmost city as well as a jumpingoff point for cruises to Antarctica.

Sell to whom?

Food and wine lovers will be in heaven in Argentina. Malbec fans will want to head to Mendoza but other wine regions include Salta, Neuquén, Río Negro, Catamarca, La Rioja and San Juan. Vegetarians might not embrace all the local cuisine, of which steak is the star, but the country’s Italian influence is also obvious in its food choices.

Rugged landscapes make Argentina a playground for adventurers. Rounding up cows gaucho-style, horses are a big part of Argentina’s culture and staying on an estancia is a popular way of experiencing it – head for the Pampas, Cordoba and even the Lake District. There’s also opportunities for trekking, biking and skiing.

Wildlife lovers can spot condors in the Andes, whales and penguins on the coast of Patagonia and caiman and capybara in the wetlands.

What’s new?

From December 18 Air Europa will fly to the Argentine city of Cordoba, the country’s most populated city, via Asuncion in Paraguay. The flight will depart four days a week from Madrid.

The Argentina Tourist Board is hoping to introduce travellers to its less-explored regions.

First on the list is the Northwest of Argentina (with the city of Salta at its centre). Says Maria

how to sell

“Looking to gain more attention is the Iberá wetlands, home to anacondas and capybaras”

Picturesque vineyards

Nazareth Vilardo, Market Co-ordinator Europe, at Argentina’s National Institute for the Promotion of Tourism: “This region is home to gorges, salt flats and altiplanic landscapes more usually associated with Bolivia. Here, wine lovers can taste Torrontes wine – the highest-produced wine in the world.”

Also looking to gain more attention is the Iberá wetlands. The second largest of its kind after Brazil’s Pantanal, it's still double the size of Florida’s Everglades and is a mix of swamps, bogs, lakes and lagoons. The area is home to anacondas, capybaras, caiman, monkeys and giant storks.

Says Merina Beg, Managing Director of DMC Argentina Travel Partners: “I’d compare Argentina’s wetlands to the Okovango Delta in Africa. It offers a huge variety of wildlife, birdlife and fishing and visitors can explore on horse back as well as by boat.”

The tourism board of Buenos Aires is offering two new and free urban trekking tours, covering the north and south of the city respectively. Next up, it plans to start a running tour.

The city is also keen to communicate its arts

59

Calchaqui Valley and culture to travel agents: “Buenos Aires is a centre for art and design", says Fernando Amer, Buenos Aires City.

Amer recommends the Metropolitan Design Centre, a former 1930s fish market where visitors can buy fashion, arts and crafts from local designers, and La Usina del Arte (The Art Factory), a former electricity plant turned concert hall and exhibition centre in La Boca. 

Fly and discover Argentina.

Daily flights to BUENOS AIRES and four weekly services to CORDOBA* from London Gatwick Air Europa, the Latin American specialist.

All flights are from London Gatwick via Madrid, With at least 23 Kg baggage allowance *New route starting on the 18th December 2016

sellingtravel.co.uk

For more information call: 0871 423 0717 or visit us at: www.aireuropaexperts.com

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spanish islands

dreaming Island

Spain’s island’s offer guaranteed sunshine and topclass beaches but there are plenty of culture and adventure options too, says Clare Walsh

Main image: Ciutadella Marina, Menorca is one of the historical ports of the Balearic Islands

sellingtravel.co.uk

spanish islands

M

y clubbing days aren’t THAT far behind me, I reassured myself as I packed my bags and headed off for my holiday in Ibiza.

I still felt the irresistible pull of the White Isle, a staple on my travel calendar since my 20s. But this year was going to see a break with tradition as I abandoned the hedonistic super-clubs and beach parties for a sophisticated spa break in Santa Euralia, on the other side of the island.

The unique energy – even spirituality – that I was immersed in during my stay was contagious. A hippy haven in the 1960s, this stunning pine-clad part of the island was a far cry from the chaotic parties and beats that I had long associated Ibiza with.

Relaxing treatments in glorious natural surroundings amid the sweet scent of lemon trees was punctuated by visits to vibrant hippy markets and vineyards.

Sunsets at Benirras beach – a ritual in this part of the island –revealed drumming, bongos and dancing around campfires, as hippies descended from the mountains. Ibiza had once again weaved its magic and held me spellbound.

As I had discovered, far from its crazy reputation as a party island, Ibiza now offers an eclectic selection of holiday types – from yoga and wellness retreats to organic farm stays, spa and fitness breaks.

A selection of boutique and luxury accommodation, along with agroturismos (converted farmhouses) and high-end restaurants are ideal to market to clients looking for a luxury break in a dazzling setting. Resorts such as Portinatx and Port de San Miquel are also popular with families looking for a quiet break.

A safe bet Spain and its islands have seen a huge surge in demand this year, with tour operators citing an almost 25% increase in bookings. A survey last year showed that 30% of British tourists rank security as one of their key concerns, and with Egypt, Turkey and Tunisia off the list for many, Spain is seen as a reassuringly safe bet.

Ibiza alone is expecting to welcome around one million visitors this summer, with ABTA reporting that bookings to the Balearics in May were running at levels normally seen in July.

Travel2 reported an enormous 300% revenue increase for holidays to Lanzarote compared with the same period last year, while Majorca wasn’t far behind with an increase of 104%.

Meanwhile, tour operators have warned against leaving booking too late as holidays in popular resorts are fast selling out.

Clients travelling to the Balearics have also had to pay a tourism tax of up to €2 per night from July 1. The Sustainable Tourist

sellingtravel.co.uk

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62

spanish islands

Top: Majorca has white sandy stretches ready to explore; Above: Aside from its well-known popular nightclubs, Ibiza is full of cultural and natural beauty

Travel Agent

SUMMER Specials

Tax has been put in place in recognition on activities such as hiking, cycling, star-gazing, of the extra stress on the fragile territories whale watching, gastronomy and wine. Tenerife and limited resources of the islands.

Tourism also launched a ‘Big Warm Hug to the Menorca, meanwhile, has been encouraging UK’ campaign in mid-July designed to underline sustainable tourism for years and is a that the island ‘is on Britain’s side’ despite any UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. With its dramatic uncertainty caused by Brexit. Islanders are being aesthetic, tourists are encouraged to take part encouraged to upload images to their own social in activities that support the preservation media sites of themselves hugging British tourists. of the island like horse riding and kayaking, Perfect ten while environmental hotels are a further Delicious delicacies: Foodie heaven is draw for clients seeking an eco-holiday. calling in Menorca – try a local lobster Sister island Mallorca, the largest of the stew washed down with a refreshing Pomada (gin Balearics, is hugely popular with cyclists due to with lots of crushed ice). its varied terrain. Opportunities for gentle rides Tee off: Play on through almond groves one of the 24 or tackling the mighty Serra de Tramuntuna “Majorca offers a diverse range golf courses across contrast with the many of holidays from cosmopolitan Majorca. Many hotels are geared towards golf, fly-and-flop options city breaks in Palma to the such as Pure Salt also available here to hedonism of Magaluf. Those Adriano hotel which has clients in resorts such after a quieter holiday can its own Golf Academy. as Palma Nova, Paguera Soothing vibes: and Playa de Muro. escape to luxury hotels in Costa Calma Gran Canaria has secluded locations” evokes ‘floaty bliss’ – and been reinventing its GORDON MCCREADIE, DIRECTOR OF SALES AND that’s just what clients offering by creating new MARKETING, GOLD MEDAL AND TRAVEL 2 will find on beaches in tourist areas such as Fuerteventura.

Meloneras, Amadores Find your speck: Fifteen blue flag sandy and Puerto Mogan, with newly built hotels stretches await clients in Tenerife – the along oceanfront promenades. It has also highest number in the Canaries. been working on repositioning the destination Enchanted forest: Feel the magic in for premium clients by expanding its spa Frontera Rural Park in El Hierro. Featuring and wellness offering, and is seeing more ancient twisted Juniper trees, this type of forest clients choosing four- and five-star hotels. only grows in three places in the world.

Tenerife welcomed over 1.7 million British Caribbean dreamin’: Take a boat trip to visitors in 2015 and witnessed an increase of Formentera, Ibiza’s untouched sister island. over 21% Brits between January and May this With crystalline waters and flop-on white sands, it year, compared with the same period last year. is dubbed the Caribbean of the Med. The focus of the tourist board for 2016 is to Cheesy treats: Take a visit to one of the target niche segments such as their luxury many cheeseries in Fuertaventura and try product ‘Tenerife Select’ and their new adventure a Designation of Origin Majerero cheese. sports brand ‘Tenerife No Limits’ which focuses

EXPERIENCE UNPARALLELED ELEGANCE AT PARK HYATT MALLORCA, a luxury hotel on the east coast of Mallorca reflecting the style of a traditional Majorcan hilltop village with references of local art and cultural heritage. From 01.07.2016 to 14.12.2016, GBP125 per room B&B. Double or Single occupancy. Subject to availability. For reservations call +34 871 811 234 or email us at Mallorca.park@hyatt.com

spanish islands

Smugglers secrets: The caves at C’an Marca in Ibiza were once used by pirates.

Book a guided tour to see ethereal stalagmites, stalactites and waterfall.

Ask the astronaut: The Starmus Festival III takes place each summer and is a celebration of science, art and music attended by astronauts, stargazers and astrophysicists.

Don the hiking boots: Head to the Tramuntana Mountain range in west Mallorca. Visit outside the summer season and enjoy striking landscapes and challenging routes.

What’s new  Attractions: Singha at Siam Park (siampark. net) in Tenerife has been awarded Best New Water Attraction. The 240m waterslide simulates a roller-coaster that propels guests on a toboggan at speeds of up to 18m per second!  Hotels: Luxury brand Pure Sal completed its refurbishment of Pure Salt Garonda (puresaltgaronda. com/en/) in Playa de Palma, Mallorca in March 2016. April saw the reopening Pure Salt Adriano (puresaltportadriano.com/en/). The only five-star hotel in Calvia, it features 94 guest rooms, while its clifftop position affords views of the Mediterranean.

Recently openes, Park Hyatt Mallorca (Mallorca. park.hyatt.com) is situated on the relatively unknown east coast. Overlooking the Canyamel Valley, it has 126 rooms and 16 suites, along with a wellness centre, spa, 24-hour fitness centre and landscaped poolside terrace.

A new Hard Rock Hotel is set to open in Tenerife in November (hardrockhotels.com/ tenerife/). The beachfront hotel in Playa Paraiso will feature 624 rooms and suites spread across two towers catering for a familyfriendly and adults-only experience.

A new five-star hotel from GF hotels is due to open in Tenerife in December 2016 (gfhoteles. com/en/). The luxury Victoria Suite hotel will be exclusively dedicated to families with activities including nurseries, tree houses, zip-lines and a ‘hanging swimming pool’ on the seventh floor.  Tour operators: Off the Map Travel (offthemaptravel.co.uk) has added Tenerife

to its portfolio with a ‘Whales and Stars’ programme focusing on whale-watching and stargazing on Mount Teide.

Tourism talk “Our key focus is on our “Tenerife 100% Life” brand. Unveiled in 2015, this new brand combines all the elements which make Tenerife a unique and differentiated destination: our pleasant weather; the beauty and diversity of the natural landscapes; the friendliness of the islanders. We will target niche products and different segment markets through the promotion of Tenerife in specific media.

“As well as promoting our niche products under our ‘Tenerife No Limits’and ‘Tenerife Select’ brands, we will continue to work very closely with our trade partners to promote both the niche and more mainstream products. This will include promotions via our new online Tenerife Training Programme which was launched in November 2015 to help agents learn about Tenerife’s diverse landscapes, excellent range of attractions and unique holiday experiences that visitors can enjoy on the island.” Richard Hume, UK Representative, Tenerife Tourism Corporation

Where to book it

“Make clients aware that holidays to the Spanish islands are in demand, with many resorts already selling out. Tourists are abandoning resorts in North Africa and instead opting for Spain – so don’t leave it until the last minute to book” CLARE WALSH, TRAVEL WRITER

 TRAVEL2 – 0800 0224 182 A week in Lanzarote starts from £919pp based on seven nights at the five-star Princesa Yaiza Suites Hotel on a B&B basis.

Flights to Lanzarote with Thomas Cook Airlines for travel on September 12, 2016. www.travel2.com

 RAIL DISCOVERIES – 0800 240 4470 Rail Discoveries offers an eight-day tour Majorca & the ‘Orange Express’, from £895pp, with two departures in September and October 2016 and eight departures from May-October 2017.

Highlights include Puerto Pollensa, Cap de Formentor, guided city tour of Palma and ride on the Tren de Sóller or Orange Express There are discounts for customers who book 2017 departures before August 16.

Raildiscoveries.com 

sellingtravel.co.uk

From left: A typical Godia windmill in Lanzarote; Majorca’s crystalline waters and striking landscapes; Mount Teide volcano on Tenerife

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caribbean focus

St. Kitts – tempting experiences in the 'autumn months' –

S

t. Kitts is an island with a great variety of attractions - from stunning beaches to hiking to world-class golf to fascinating historic sites.

Enjoyable at any time of year and blessed with year-round warm seas and sunny skies, the island offers particularly good value during the closing months of the year.

So for clients looking for a tempting Caribbean package, suggest St. Kitts during the region’s traditionally quieter period (between midSeptember and mid-December).

At this time, visitor numbers are slightly down versus other times of the year.

This means quieter beaches and easier-tosecure tables in the cafes and restaurants of the island’s resorts, as well as, St. Kitts' beautiful and historic capital, Basseterre.

REASONS FOR SEASONS: These are the months before the high-season rates kick in from mid-December. Many visitors find the weather more comfortable during this period with temperatures averaging 27C (81F). In short, this is a perfect time to discover St. Kitts!

WHO TO SELL TO? Couples: For couples looking to get married, honeymoon or just enjoy a romantic break in the Caribbean, this time of the year should be an easy sell. They will appreciate the extra intimacy and privacy on offer.

Family matters: Families – including those on a half-term break – looking for beach fun and watersports, have plenty of options. For example, at Cockleshell Bay, kayaks and paddleboards are available for hire right on the beach.

OVERCOMING OBJECTIONS DURING THE 'OFF PEAK SEASON’ IN THE CARIBBEAN, TROPICAL STORMS ARE COMMON, ALONG WITH THE OCCASIONAL HURRICANE. HOWEVER, MOST RAINFALL ARRIVES IN SHORT, SHARP BURSTS AND TEMPERATURES ARE COMFORTABLY WARM. SOME HOTELS AND ATTRACTIONS DO CLOSE AT THIS TIME, SO CHECK WITH INDIVIDUAL PROPERTIES. THERE ARE PLENTY OF GREAT OPTIONS TO CHOOSE FROM. DEAL CLOSER

Those with a sense of adventure: Adrenaline seekers will enjoy activities such as ziplining – get strapped in and zoom through the verdant rainforest canopy at speeds of up to 45mph. A wide range of watersports are also available and other activities include quad bike tours through sugar cane fields and horse-riding.

Nature lovers: St. Kitts is something of a hidden secret when it comes to birdwatching, but local twitchers keep an eye out for as many as 250 species that may be seen at various times of the year. Other wildlife on the island includes vervet monkeys and wild deer.

Hikers: The island is dominated by the 3,792ft (1,156m) Mount Liamuiga. A dormant volcano, it is shrouded with rainforest and on the way up you may see wild orchids. It is strenuous work but those who reach the top are rewarded by an impressive deep crater. You can also go part of the way up or try a gentler nature trail.

Golfers: The beautiful Royal St. Kitts Golf Club is one of the Caribbean's most spectacular courses, with views of both the Caribbean and the Atlantic Ocean. Children under 15 enjoy free golf when teeing off with an adult.

FESTIVALS, ARTS AND FASHION: Some unique St. Kitts experiences (such as festivals) and the opportunity to do something completely different (like attending a fashion show) are on offer between mid-September and mid-December. For example, for a week each October (19-25 2016) mariachi bands and South American specialities dominate at the St. Kitts Latin Fiesta which celebrates the links between the West Indies and the nations of Latin America.

November sees the official start of St. Kitts National Carnival, also called 'Sugar Mas'. Events include fashion shows, 'bar crawls' and a calypso cruise in the run-up to the traditional pageants and parades that take place in the new year.

Also in November, iFlamboyant will showcase the best of art, craft and fashion from St. Kitts and Nevis artists. Held in the Marriott Resort, it features paintings, jewellery, clothing, ceramics, glasswork and more.

For those interested in fashion, Style Weekend and other similar shows are hosted in November.

Check stkittstourism.kn for full details. 

sellingtravel.co.uk

How to get there Flight choice: British Airways operates a twiceweekly service – on Saturdays and Wednesdays – from Gatwick. British Airways also has a daily service to Antigua, which enables travellers to reach St. Kitts via the Caribbean carrier, LIAT. batraveltrade.com From top: Golfing at Royal St. Kitts Golf Club, with play along both the Caribbean and Atlantic Sea; catch the St. Kitts Latin Fiesta in October; speeding through the St. Kitts rainforest on a 'five-line zipline'

Y O Show U R G report U I D E T O

Selling Canada CONTENTS 66 Show report: Rendez-vous Canada 71 Agents on tour: Nova Scotia &New Brunswick 72 Aboriginal tourism 76 Shopping 78 Canmore, Alberta 80 Atlantic Canada 81 New faces for Ontario

RUPERT PETERS, REGIONAL MD EUROPE, AUSTRALIA AND INDIA, DESTINATION CANADA “Destination Canada is to turn its marketing spotlight onto the Millennial traveller, upping its online and social media marketing as it seeks to broaden its reach into new tourism markets. While the UK’s over-55s remain a strong and important sector for Canada, targeting Millennials (aged 18–34) will help build business for the future and widen perceptions across all groups of exactly what Canada can offer.

“In line with Destination Canada’s mission to present Canada as ‘cool not cold’, marketing activities will focus on story telling – showcasing individual experiences of typically Canadian activities and interactions within the destination.

“UK sales were up 6% last year, with a

further 6-7% increase expected this year and many tour operators are reporting double-digit growth for Canada. New air capacity and route launches mean there are now 2.5 million direct-access seats available to Canada from the UK and growth is being further spurred by the perception that Canada is a very safe destination in a time of much uncertainty elsewhere.

“In truth, age is really irrelevant, what is important is that we broaden perceptions of Canada beyond our ‘must-see’ iconic attractions, which people already know about, and better explain the broader appeal of the food, festivals, vibrant cities, cool culture and adventure activities which are perhaps less well known.

“We need to give those considering Canada a sense of urgency and excitement – the inspiration to travel now!”

sellingtravel.co.uk

canada

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66

Show report

canada

Rendez-vous Canada Nearly 1,700 travel industry professionals, including 60 from the UK, attended Canada’s showcase event as for the first time in more than a decade Canada surpassed global tourism growth. Julie Baxter reports

Destination Canada gets connected

Canada growth is double the average CANADA is outperforming other international tourism destinations with an annual growth rate for the past year of nearly 8% – double the international average.

These results have been in part attributed to an increase in air access,

improvement

in

visa

processes and supportive currency exchange rates.

Building on a $30-million federal government budget spent over the past

three

years, Destination

Canada has now been allocated a $50 million for the next two years.

The money will in part be spent re-entering the US market and developing a domestic campaign encouraging

but

CEO

David

Goldstein insists: “These new priorities will not be at the expense of our activities in UK and Europe.

DESTINATION CANADA is positioning

marketing is still a relatively new field

completely blank slate via online

This region will get increased

itself as the ‘go to’ digital content team

and it is hard for individual businesses

activity. He said the digital environment

investment too, not least because

standing by to support trade partners

to understand and use it effectively.

could also be used to identify consumer

although the UK is a mature market

“In some ways it is like the Wild West

need and, by showing demand, inspire

it is still showing good growth

out there in the digital world but our

operators to reinvent and adapt their

thanks to new Westjet flights, dollar

By trialling specific online marketing

strategy is designed to ensure we are

itineraries to better reflect market need

improvements and the fact Canada

campaigns, developing big data insights

on top of the data, using it to best

and evolving trends.

is perceived as a safe destination in

and focusing activities around a

effect and helping our partners develop

‘Connecting

the best possible content to respond to

co-investing in campaigns which share

“We believe Canada is also back

what is needed.”

Destination Canada’s vision to push

on trend. Our time has come and

who want to boost their online marketing spend and creativity.

Global

Customers’

programme, the Destination Canada

Trade

partners

interested

in

difficult global times.

team aims to build a wealth of clear

He said the power of social media

Canada’s diverse range of experiences

the product is there to inspire

opportunities trade partners can tap

was indisputable with targeted niche

will be actively supported in the

travellers to come now.”

into and use themselves.

campaigns

coming year, promised Goldstein.

uk-keepexploring.canada.travel

CEO David Goldstein says: “Digital

Untitled-2 1

already

proving

how

concrete bookings can be built from a

uk-keepexploring.canada.travel

06/07/2016 14:48

Show report

canada

Westjet’s buoyant launch

Magnificent seven join forces

Air Transat adds business class

independently-owned

AIR TRANSAT is now operating a

accommodation providers have

new Club Class option on domestic

joined

flights within Canada.

SEVEN

forces

to

promote

themselves under the Magnificent

Club Class enables passengers

7 brand – encouraging itineraries

connecting or flying with Air

that combine their diverse appeal.

Transat within Canada to benefit

The top-end lodges, hotels and

from exclusive advantages and inflight services.

cruise offerings each provide tailormade experiences and personal

Club Class is located in the first

service and has come together to

three rows of the economy-cabin

cross sell each others products and

on Air Transat’s Boeing 737 aircraft.

In order to provide passengers

expand quality options across

with more space, the middle seats

Canada for their own clients.

Jeneen Sutherland, Executive

in each of these rows remain

Director, says: “All the properties are

unoccupied. Passengers booking

in remote places and offer exclusive

onto this service will also gain

super high-end experiences. This

access

collaboration allows each member

inflight perks, including a 40kg

to

baggage allowance, a choice of

recommend

each

other’s

to

pre-departure

and

gourmet meals (which will vary

experiences to their mutual benefit, and to the benefit of clients. We are

BY JULIE BAXTER

welcomed by those seeking polar bear

according to flight duration) and

currently

bespoke

WESTJET reports a strong start for sales

and beluga experiences.

complimentary seat selection.

itineraries for the trade to use

on its new Gatwick services which

Gosselin says: “We recognise it is not

The Club Class service on

which link together two or more of

launched to Vancouver, Calgary and

just about the gateways and the flights;

transatlantic flights remains as

the Magnificent 7 properties.”

Toronto in May.

we all have to work together to raise

before.

creating

Offering new non-stop options into key

awareness of the destinations and

(BC),

gateways the services add opportunities

experiences available through each

includes

Tweedsmuir Park Lodge (BC),

to connect onwards with a raft of other

gateway and the trade is key to this. .

between Montréal and Toronto,

Siwash Lake Wilderness Resort

Canadian and U.S. destinations on the

“Many agents already recognise they do

two between Québec City and

(BC), Pacific Yellowfin cruise ship

Westjet network. The airline now offers

not just have to sell a simple return ticket

Montreal, two between Vancouver

(BC), Bella Coola Heli Sports (BC),

1,194 seats a day out of Gatwick.

but can mix and match flights in and out

and Toronto and one between

of the destination to create a complete,

Calgary and Toronto. airtransat.co.uk

The experiences include Nimmo Bay

Wilderness

Resort

Churchill Wild (Manitoba) and

Business Development Manager Louis

Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge (BC).

Gosselin says: “The UK trade is key to our

much

more

magnificent7.ca

success and we are happy to see steady

experience.

interesting

Canadian

bookings from the start. All season looks

“Niche operators in particular are

good and many flights are full. We are

becoming very imaginative in the way

seeing strong interest from VFR markets

they work the network to build itineraries

and also from Canada Specialist Agents.”

We have to think outside the box and

To encourage sales, Westjet hosted 12

stop just selling what we always sold, it

tour operators (pictured) from all over

is time to inject new ideas and inspiration

the country on the WestJet service to St

into what we offer the UK market.”

John’s (Newfoundland). It is Canada’s

Gosselin added that agents have

closest city to the U.K., just a 4.5 hour

recognised the value of the Calgary flight

flight away and offers an urban

for early booking winter ski deals and are

experience set around the harbour and

also using the new services to connect to

access to icebergs, whales, and birds.

Hawaii, Orlando or Vegas through

The new Winnipeg service has been

Air Transat’s domestic schedule five

weekly

flights

Vancouver and Calgary.” westjet.com

YOUR CURIOUS BELONGS HERE

770 Don Mills Road Toronto, Ontario, Canada M3C 1T3 www.OntarioScienceCentre.ca Group.Sales@OntarioScienceCentre.ca

An agency of the Government of Ontario

67

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Show report

canada

UNESCO’s double deal in Ontario A NEW discovery tour out of Gananoque

combines

two

Owl Rafting paddles into Canada150 celebrations

NEWS TO USE IN BRIEF Toronto connects: A new train link between Toronto’s Pearson Airport and Union Station in the city centre is now running every 15

UNESCO sites and gives travellers

minutes, connecting the two for

the chance to explore the Ontario

$12 each way. The journey time is

region by air, land and water.

25 minutes.

The 1000 Islands area is traditionally

explored

upexpress.com

and

enjoyed by boat but now visitors

Canada150: Events planned for

can also view it from above

the

following the launch of new

celebrations include a night-time

helicopter flightseeing tours from

gathering along the Trans Canada

Kouri’s Kopters.

trail during which those who hike

Canada150

anniversary

The company has four new

and canoe the route all use head

helicopters and has joined forces

torches and lights at the same

with Rideau Tours and local

time so a satellite photo can be

cruise operators to give visitors

formed of their illuminations.

the chance to also fly over the

canada150.ca

surrounding

Frontenac

Arch

UNESCO biosphere area and then

H-C revs up: Motorcycle holidays

view the UNESCO World Heritage

specialist H-C Travel is offering

Rideau Canal from above.

Fly1000islands.ca

five self-guided motorcycle tours

Owl

BY JULIE BAXTER

and

its

sister

company

from Vancouver

this

summer.

OWL RAFTING is to run a trade fam trip

Madawaska Kanu Centre this year

Itineraries, which showcase the

in June next year showcasing its unique

became part of the Canadian Signature

scenery of British Columbia and

canoe route itinerary and turning the

Experiences portfolio. Author and

the Rockies, can be customised to

focus onto the role of the canoe in

canoe historian Roy MacGregor also

suit particular interests.

forging Canada’s history.

became a patron of the six-day canoe

hctravel.com

As a launch event for the Canada150 anniversary celebrations, the white-

route itinerary and is helping ensure maximum publicity for the tour.

Museum upgrade: The Royal

water rafting and canoe tours specialist

OWL Rafting is owned and operated

aims to include a special guest on the

by Claudia and Dirk Van Wijk, National

Foundations gallery which more

tour – possibly Canada’s prime minister

and

clearly

Justin Trudeau.

Champions, and operates out of

evolution, how

International

Whitewater

Tyrrell

Museum explains

has

a

theories the

new of

museum’s

Trudeau and his family are keen

Forester’s Falls, Ontario. Their resort

famous fossils tell the story of life

canoeists and his father, the former

also recently received the Feast On

on earth and why Alberta is unique

Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau, did much

culinary tourism designation for good

when it comes to fossil preservation.

to

food locally sourced.

tyrrellmuseum.com

ensure

the

canoe

recognised icon of Canada.

became

a

owl-mkc.ca

A view to thrill

Niagara Helicopters Flightseeing Tours

Niagara Helicopters

3731 Victoria Avenue, Niagara Falls, ON

905 357 5672 niagarahelicopters.com

Show report

CHURCHILL DOUBLES THE DELIGHTS

canada

Fort McMurray fire ALBERTA’S tourism industry has

Churchill Wild has launched two dual-lodge safaris for 2017 in response to consumer demand.

The summer departure combines Seal River Heritage Loade and Nanuk Polar Bear Lodge on a nine-night trip with kayaking/snorkeling with beluga whales and a trip into the western Hudson Bay, for polar bears, black bears, wolves and moose.

The autumn combo is for 10 nights and offers the same lodges but focuses on photography too with tundra trips and advice on bear photography against a backdrop of snow and ice.

The combined stays costs from CAN$13,595 pp.

rallied behind colleagues from

Churchillwild.com

warmth and generosity.

Fort McMurray which hit the international headlines earlier this year when huge forest fires saw the entire city evacuated.

Well away from the usual tourist areas of Alberta, Fort McMurray is known mainly as a good vantage place for watching the Northern Lights. Minimal damage was done to the city centre or to tourism infrastructure and no lives were lost. Fellow Canadians have risen to the challenge, donating free flights and accommodation to those who have lost their homes and showing true Canadian spirit in supporting those displaced with fortmcmurraytourism.com

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Show report

FEEL the

Rail investment on track

ATTRACTION ROCKY MOUNTAINEER is enhancing is offering by adding to its fleet of custom-made luxury GoldLeaf railcars. The project will see 10 new cars arriving in Canada, with the first arrivals due in 2018.

The operator says the new cars will be completely re-engineered by expert manufacturers Stadler, with efficiency and comfort in mind. Rocky Mountaineer is currently revitalising its entire fleet of GoldLeaf and SilverLeaf railcars – the largest capital investment in its 26-year history. rockymountaineer.com

New Head Smashed experience in Alberta VISITORS to Head Smashed in Buffalo Jump, a World Heritage Site in Alberta, can now get a true taste of the traditions and lifestyle of the Blackfoot First Nation peoples by signing up for the new ‘Run with the Buffalos’ experience.

The tour experience includes a smudge ceremony, buffalo meat tasting, tool-making workshop and an emotional re-enactment of the original buffalo run.

Head Smashed in Buffalo Jump is set on a vast stretch of windswept prairie just 15 minutes northwest of Fort Macleod.

It is a sandstone escarpment which has played a dramatic role in First Nations history that goes back more than 6,000 years. This is where they drove buffalo to their death to ensure they had food for winter. headsmashedin.org

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On Location

RVC fam trips

71

UK operators head coast to coast THE DETAILS WHAT: VIP PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT FAM WHERE: BRITISH COLUMBIA WHEN: APRIL WHO: DESTINATION BC HOSTED FIVE LUXURY TOUR OPERATORS FROM SCOTT DUNN/ IMAGINE, ORIGINAL TRAVEL, PURELY CANADA, DESTINOLOGY AND THE EDEN COLLECTION.

The best of BC...

The fam travelled to Vancouver, Campbell River, Knight Inlet Lodge and Whistler. Highlights included flightseeing in Vancouver, a floatplane trip over mountains and glaciers and viewing grizzly bears, seals, dolphins and bald eagles at Knight Inlet Lodge. It ended on a high when the group From L R: Josephine Wasch, VIA Rail; Stuart Perry, All Leisure Holidays; Julie Thompson, Frontier Travel; Adam Hamner, Destination Canada UK; Denise Hunn, Prestige Travel; James Nickerson, Canadian Affair

drove Scenic Rush’s super cars along the picturesque Sea to Sky highway….

“British Columbia has something for every visitor and every season: it’s wild, untouched, peaceful and a nature lovers paradise. The scenery is jaw-dropping. Our trip took

THE DETAILS

us on a journey of a lifetime using just about every mode

WHAT: POST RENDEZ-VOUS CANADA FAM TRIP

of transport available including kayaks, floatplanes and

WHERE: NOVA SCOTIA / NEW BRUNSWICK

Ferraris! We hiked and we dined; we stayed in beautiful

WHEN: APRIL

hotels and lodges and saw an abundance of wildlife. Don’t

WHO: UK OPERATORS HOSTED BY VIA RAIL CANADA,

let your clients rush through BC; get them off the beaten

NEW BRUNSWICK TOURISM, HERITAGE AND

path, into the wilderness and out of their comfort zone – it

CULTURE AND NOVA SCOTIA TOURISM

is sure to lead to a memorable trip and a happy customer.”

Andrew Bird – Purely Canada

With a mid-April RVC this year, post-fams were quite weather dependent, but the VIA Ocean train to New Brunswick and Halifax was a must-do for Julie Thompson, Product and Marketing Manager for Frontier Travel, who along with three other UK operators headed straight to Montréal's VIA station after the show.

JULIE SAID...

“We boarded the train and were shown to our spacious and comfortable cabins for the overnight journey to Moncton. The dining car, with great food, local beers and wines; and the Dome car, where we idled away hours watching the beautiful scenery go by, were the perfect antidote to a hectic trade show.

“On arrival in Moncton, we were just 35 minutes from Hopewell Rocks and had a private guide who took us to view the fabulous natural formations at low tide. No prior image can prepare you for the sheer amazement of the height of the flowerpot rocks as they tower above you – a tick on my bucket-list for sure.

“It was then onward to Saint John, via the pretty fishing town of Alma for a city walking tour on

“BC in the summer wowed me at every turn, with the highlight being the serenity of Knight Inlet and the interaction with the Grizzly Bears, which I will definitely be

the banks of the Bay of Fundy including a visit to North America's oldest market, the Saint John city market, and time on the 2,559-hectare Fundy Trail Parkway and a zodiac tour in the picturesque city of Saint Andrew.

“We stayed in luxurious rooms at the Algonquin Resort and were served amazing food wherever we went from the best lamb chops I have ever eaten to a seven-course dinner overlooking Passamaquoddy Bay. We fairly waddled back to the train the next morning to finish our journey to Halifax where a lobster dinner was on the menu and fantastic tales and commentary were enjoyed from the chirpy Richard of Atlantic Tours as we explored this lovely city by the sea and the famous lighthouse at scenic Peggy's Cove.

"Beautiful scenery, sensational food and great company, plus first-class hotels and tours. In short, a great fam tour. Awesome!”

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recommending to clients'. BC offers a perfect combination of adventure, wildlife and luxury.”

Will Boocock – Original Travel

rew ection; And Eden Coll on BC; Gary s, ie av D ie Hewitt- Cooper, Destinati tination L-R: Charl Lisa , Des ly Canada; laire Ranganathan nal Travel re Pu d, ir B ;C rigi O gy , lo ck no co ti oo on, Des BC; Will B Worthingt

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First Nations

canada

tourism Aboriginal

ups its game

Canada’s Aboriginal community is increasingly active in tourism circles, adding new product, tours and experiences, says Julie Baxter

A

boriginal tourism is fast becoming a serious player in the Canadian tourism industry following the launch of the Aboriginal Tourism Association of Canada (ATAC) which pulls First Nations operators together and helps them sensitively develop ‘market-ready’ product.

Attending Rendez-Vous Canada (RVC) in force with 25 booth holders, ATAC used the international event to launch its ‘Power of Aboriginal Tourism’ campaign designed to show the value and development potential of First Nation contributions to Canada’s tourism portfolio.

The launch, in collaboration with Destination Canada, put Aboriginal tourism centre stage with cultural demonstrations and insights from the Cree of Québec, Inuit of Nunavik in Northern Québec and the Wendake community.

Heading up the ATAC is Keith Henry who has become a leading advocate for Aboriginal Tourism, leveraging government and industry support after producing a research document proving the commercial value and clear consumer demand for more First Nation involvement in tourism.

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He and his team of seven have produced a five-year strategic plan identifying ways to build partnerships with the industry and develop professional aboriginal businesses which remain authentic and sensitive to community values and needs.

Henry says: “In the last year we have seen 50 new businesses develop, bringing 9,500 Aboriginal staff into the tourism industry.

“We are building their professionalism and leadership, helping them see their own potential and establishing national standards.

“Canada is rethinking the way it markets itself internationally and in establishing its USPs it is beginning to see that Aboriginal tourism is a clear way to differentiate Canada from the rest of the world. We now have good partnerships with Destination Canada and CAN$600,000 in government funding to develop product and promotions. We have to create more unique stories for Canada, show more images, provide more interesting content, and our aboriginal communities really can provide this for sure.

“The response has been overwhelming.

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canada

The UK and European markets in particular seem very keen for this kind of product and we feel we are pushing at an open door. Both international and domestic partners want us to succeed; they want to support us and are happy to help. It is a very exciting time for us.

Now we just have to be sure we deliver.”

What’s on offer  Alberta: Alberta has one of the largest, youngest and fastest-growing Aboriginal populations in Canada. Calgary Stampede’s Indian Village is a major part of the annual

First Nations

event and is open daily to offer visitors the chance to experience the tipis, traditions and culture of the Siksika, T'suu Tina, Stoney Nakoda , Piikani and Kainai people.

Head Smashed in Buffalo Jump is one of the oldest, largest and best preserved buffalo jumps in North America, dating back 5,700 years. It stages reenactments and story telling events daily to bring First Nation survival traditions to life.  British Columbia: With over 200 distinct First Nations, BC has the greatest diversity of Aboriginal cultures in Canada, all with varied histories, traditions and languages. There are over 30 different First Nations languages and close to 60 dialects spoken in the province.

Sea Wolf Adventures connects travellers to destinations in the Great Bear Rain Forest and Broughton Archipelago for grizzly bear viewing, whale watching and First Nations cultural tours. While The Squamish and Lil’wat Cultural Centre showcases Aboriginal art and heritage through workshops, performances and indigenous cuisine.

At Spirit Bear Lodge in the remote fishing village of Klemtu, visitors get unparalleled grizzly and Spirit Bear viewing and can combine that with insights into the Kitasoo/Xaixais people.  Manitoba: There are 63 different First Nations in Manitoba as well as Métis people.

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The Brokenhead Wetland Interpretive Trail, a 1.83-kilometre floating boardwalk located an hour from Winnipeg, showcases the historical connection between the First Nation community of Brokenhead and the wetlands.  New Brunswick: Home to the Mi’kmaq and Maliseet people, the province offers festivals, events and pow wows that celebrate and embrace native language and uphold Aboriginal heritage.

The Metepenagiag Heritage Park offers an authentic Aboriginal experience package called A Taste of Metepenagiag, which includes a personal tour of the park, trail walk and Aboriginal cuisine.

Or if a visit coincides with the Esgenoopetitj (Burnt Church) First Nations pow wow each August, visitors can immerse themselves in Aboriginal traditions of teaching, learning, singing, dancing, feasting, sharing and healing.  Newfoundland and Labrador: Torngat Mountains Base Camp and Research Station opens each summer on the edge of Torngat Mountains National Park. It brings Inuit elders and youth together with visitors, researchers and Parks Canada staff to share adventures and connect with their Inuit homeland.  Northwest Territories: Dene, Inuvialuit and Métis people live in authentic communities large and small, across the territories.

From top left clockwise: Guided tour in Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre; Atikamekw First Nations cultural immersion with Tourisme Manawan; re-enactments of activities of the Great Plains People at Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump World Heritage Site

Traditional Aboriginal culture blends with 55 Aboriginal communities ensure the modern amenities at the Aurora Village with province has a diverse tourism offering. opportunities to spot the northern lights too. Grey The Hôtel-Musée Premières Nations is a hotel Goose Lodge and North Nahanni Naturalist Lodge and a museum where history and Aboriginal offer guests the chance to immerse themselves traditions blend with a contemporary property in traditional Dene culture in a modern lodge whose architecture has been designed to be in setting, and also explore local artisan crafts. harmony with nature and reflect traditional ways.  Nova Scotia: The Mi’kmaq legends of A stay here can include time in a longhouse mythic hero-god Glooscap help give meaning The Aanischaaukamikw Cree Cultural Institute to the extraordinary geography of the located in Oujé-Bougoumou is a museum and province. It’s said that a meeting between shop offering high-quality original art and crafts.

Glooscap and a mighty whale created the The inaugural exhibition featured artifacts that awesome tides of the Bay of Fundy. reflect the Cree people’s commitment to the land.

Eskasoni First Nation and the Highland The First Peoples Festival each August Village Museum have collaborated to transforms Montréal into the capital of develop multicultural tour packages which the First Cultures of the Americas and is give visitors the chance to learn about the a multi-disciplinary event that celebrates Mi'kmaq culture and heritage, experience Aboriginal Culture. The Innu Nikamueach storytelling and music or enjoy a traditional festival is an annual native music event. feast with cultural performances.  Nunavut: Nunavut has supported a continuous The Glooscap Heritage Centre and Mi’kmaq indigenous population for over 4,000 years Museum offer multimedia presentations of the and everyday life in modern Inuit communities rich history of the Mi’kmaw people and exhibits still reflects their history of a nomadic hunterincluding ancient gatherer tradition. artifacts, stunning The Nunatta quillwork and beadwork Sunakkutaangit Museum and a giant statue of the “We have to create more unique has a permanent gallery legendary Glooscap. of Inuit artifacts while stories for Canada, show more the annual Alianait Arts At Port-Royal images and provide more National Historic Festival takes place in Site, Mi'kmaq Culture Iqaluit each summer interesting content. Our Days allow visitors to Aboriginal communities really and spotlights Inuit and experience the history other circumpolar art. can provide this for sure” and traditions of the  Saskatchwen: The KEITH HENRY Mi’kmaq, sing Mi’kmaw 70 First Nations in ABORIGINAL TOURISM ASSOCIATION OF CANADA songs accompanied by Saskatchewan are drums and participate part of five linguistic in the ancient groups. Their pow games and craft-making. wows rank as one of the highlights of the  Ontario: Over 220,000 people in Ontario Saskatchewan summer event schedule. identify themselves as from the First Nations The Wanuskewin Heritage Park includes community and the province has a rich walking trails, educational and cultural and diverse indigenous history and culture, programmes and hosts cultural celebration from pow wows to guided nature tours to and pow wows each August. authentic artwork to indigenous cuisine.  Yukon: A quarter of all Yukoners are Visitors can experience authentic Aboriginal of Aboriginal ancestry and belong to culture in the heart of downtown Ottawa, at an one of 14 Yukon First Nations. award-winning attraction and CTC Signature The Adäka Cultural Festival is a worldExperience – Aboriginal Experience. Activities class celebration featuring traditional and include food, dance and art workshops. contemporary music, dance, drumming, The Great Spirit Circle hiking trail links together storytelling, film, fashion, visual art exhibition authentic Aboriginal experiences that exhibit the and demonstrations, workshops, cultural culture and traditions of the Anishinaabe people presentations, a community feast and more. of the Manitoulin Island - Sagamok Region.

Meanwhile, the Moosehide Gathering in July is Chiefswood National Historic Site is the a celebration of Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in culture, held childhood home of famous poet Tekahionwake three kilometres (downriver) from Dawson City.

E. Pauline Johnson. The home was built in It includes live performances, drumming and 1856 by Mohawk Chief George H. M. Johnson dancing, arts and craft, nightly feasts and more. for his British bride Emily Howells Free camping and boat transport is provided.  Québec: The Aboriginals of Québec The Dänojà Zho – or Long Time Ago House – are renowned for their deep-rooted offers visitors the opportunity to discover the history values of hospitality and sharing. Some and culture of the first people of the Klondike.

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TRAVEL ALBERTA/SEAN THONSON

First Nations

From top: Osoyoos, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia; locals of the Great Bear Rainforest, British Columbia; Horsethief Canyon, Alberta; Most images courtesy: Canadian Tourism Commission

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Retail therapy

canada

shopping Let’s go

Canada has some of the biggest and best malls in the world and, from coast to coast, speciality shopping districts and local markets, says Julie Baxter

C

anada’s shopping malls are stepping up their efforts to target UK travellers and are turning the spotlight onto unique shopping opportunities and bargain deals accessible to visitors.

Mall companies such as Ivanhoe Cambridge, Tango Outlets and Premium Outlets all have large shopping and entertainment complexes dotted across the country and many independent malls are also working to get in on the tourism act.

Possibly the most famous shopping areas in Canada are Montréal’s RESO, part of an underground city, and Toronto’s PATH, which according to the Guinness World Records is the largest underground shopping complex in the world with 371,600 square metres of retail space.

Markets and specialist shopping districts all add colour to the mix for tourist shoppers and popular local goods range from a smorgasbord of maple syrup products to intricately worked First Nation leather goods.

But it is the malls and out-of-town outlets that are most actively wooing visitor business.

Ivanhoe Cambridge’s Sandra Quiteria says: “We are targeting UK tour operators and encouraging them to offer shopping packages. We have dedicated facilities for tour buses plus regular, easy-to-use shopping shuttles to connect from

sellingtravel.co.uk

airports or downtown to malls of 200+ outlets.

Those who connect with us can take advantage of swag bags for their clients, complete with discount vouchers, shopping passports, free gifts for spending a certain amount, and shopand-stay packages linked to specific hotels.”

The group has a range of mall brands and its Mills properties all feature unique architectural styles and artistic touches with décor which specifically reflects the character and style of the region they are in.

The Mills are particularly high-end malls, all on one level and offering a mix of designer and outlet shops. Newest in the portfolio is Tsawwassen Mills, in South Delta, south of Vancouver, due to open in October. This massive 1.2 million square foot mall is positioning itself as a ‘retail destination’ and will include a 1,100-seat food court and several restaurants.

Quiteria says: “At the moment the dollar exchange rate means shopping is an increasingly important component of a trip to Canada. Everyone knows about the shopping opportunities in the U.S. but they are not so aware of the same in Canada. Yet we have all the same brands and big names here so the opportunities are just as strong.”

Alberta has a particularly attractive draw card with its low (5%) sales tax, while its West

Retail therapy

Edmonton Mall has been a key drawcard for the city as one of the biggest indoor entertainment, shopping, and attraction centres in North America.

Part adventure park and entertainment complex and part shopping and dining destination, the mall spans the equivalent of 48 city blocks.

The Canada One brand is well known to travellers to Niagara Falls. Its mall, with 30 outlets, is 20 minutes outside the city but easily accessed by the WeGo public bus system. The company’s Marjorie Ruddy, says: “Shopping has become a really big thing for the UK market – in fact for all markets. The Brazilians and Chinese put the rest of us to shame when they shop but all tourists want to do it. We like it because it is different product to home and also because when we are on holiday we actually have the time and inclination to browse and can enjoy shopping rather than just rushing around under pressure to just buy the necessities.

“Shopping is now one of the main things to do on any Canadian itinerary. It is especially popular on a rainy day because who wants to spend their money on theme parks or outdoor activities on a wet day?”

Among the top sellers are Samsonite suitcases, presumably for visitors investing in extra baggage to get all their new goodies home with them!

Malls are increasingly linking up with hotels to promote visits to their facilities. Yorkdale Shopping Centre in Toronto, for example, works in partnership with the InterContinental Toronto Centre Hotel and Holiday Inn to offer exclusive shopping packages. The shop-and-stay offers can include discount vouchers, transport, a VIP tourist card and dining deals.

Yorkdale includes the largest number of first-in Canada stores and includes over 250 outlets inclding Jimmy Choo, Cartier, Zara and Bvlgari as well as Canada’s largest Apple store and the country’s only showroom for the electric powered Tesla sports car.

International shopping centre group McArthurcan Outlet Malls recently opened a mall near Vancouver airport and is accessible even on a short stopover. The first designer outlet to open in the Vancouver area, it has an open-air village style and tailor-made entertainment alongside all the latest brands at up to 70% off.

Main image: Shops in Québec City; Canada One mall, Niagara Falls; and the soon-to-open Tsawwassen Mills

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78

The Provinces

introducing

Alberta – Canmore Kananaskis –

S

aid to be Canada’s best kept secret, Canmore will appeal to true travellers seeking an authentic Canadian experience. Located 20 minutes from Banff, this authentic mountain town has long been a favourite holiday destination for Canadians, says Julie Baxter

Recommend Canmore to travellers who want to get under the skin of Alberta with the chance to meet and spend time with local characters in a relaxed laid-back mountain environment in a region packed with outdoor activities. It is just over an hour's drive from Calgary.

MUST SEE Canmore is a mountain town with a diverse population including Olympic athletes, Everest summiteers, authors and artists. Downtown has a relaxed vibe and Main Street includes an eclectic collection of art galleries, shopping experiences and a hip cafes and restaurants.

The community runs a buzzing programme of festivals and events visitors can look out for too.

Never far from view are the The Three Sisters, three iconic peaks which are among the most photographed in the Rockies. Known locally as Faith, Charity and Hope, they often feature in local art.

Prime among other draws to the town is the Canmore Nordic Centre which was the host site for the Nordic events of the 1988 Olympic Winter Games. The centre now offers activities ranging from cross country skiing, biking and hiking to disk golf and orienteering.

HIDDEN TREASURES A real gateway to the great outdoors, the Rocky Mountain Legacy Trail offers 22km of scenic paved trail connecting Canmore and Banff. It is popular with cyclists and hikers, with several incredible viewpoints along the way. Following the Trans Canada Highway, it works as a round trip or in combination with the ROAM public transit system if visitors want to walk or cycle

FOR FOODIE TYPES RECOMMEND THE CANMORE PROGRESSIVE DINNER TOUR WHICH TAKES IN FOUR LOCAL RESTAURANTS WITH WINE AND COCKTAIL PAIRINGS ALONG THE WAY; OR THE CANMORE FOOD TOURS TO MEET CHEFS, PRODUCERS AND FARMERS AND SAMPLE REGIONAL FLAVOURS AND ARTISAN PRODUCTS E. dining@tourismcanmore.com W. canmorefoodtours.com BOOK

IT

one way and take public transport back.

For those wedded to the wheel, the Kananaskis Wildlife Drive is one of the most spectacular drives in Alberta and takes visitors through the heart of Kananaskis country on a three-hour loop from Canmore.

The 153km (96 mile) drive goes through picturesque provincial parks with stops for interpretive walks and picnics, hikers’ tea and moose spotting.

Among other visitor attractions is the Rat’s Nest Cave in Grotto Mountain – a natural wild cave where four-six hour tours are operated underground; and the region’s Bow Valley where intricate geology and stunning views ensure some world-class rock climbing choices.

Upper and Lower Kananaskis lakes and Barrier Lake are among a series of beautiful man-made and natural lakes created by a hydro-electric dam. There are parks surrounding them with biking and hiking trails, boating opportunities and in summer, canoes, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards are available to rent.

AUTHENTIC CANMORE Suggest a tour of the Grizzly Paw Brewing Company's new 20,000sqft brewery in Canmore, or coincide your client's visit lively range of popular annual events including the Canmore Folk Music Festival, Highland Games, Festival of Eagles and ArtSpeak Arts Festival.

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Discover the Canadian Rockies Imagine soaking up Canada’s soul-stirring landscape from a glass-dome luxury coach while nibbling on gourmet meals. Sound like a dream come true? It is.

by Rail

A Rocky Mountaineer rail journey through the majestic Canadian Rockies provides unparalleled vantage points to some of the world’s most spectacular scenery. Indulge all your senses as you wind through awe-inspiring landscapes, complemented by exquisite locally sourced cuisine, captivating storytelling, and impeccable service.

To book, contact your preferred Tour Operator, visit agent.rockymountaineer.com or call free on 00800 0606 7372

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The Provinces

advertorial

Atlantic Canada – closer than you think –

A

tlantic Canada on the east coast offers an amazing outdoor playground less than six hours flying from the UK. It's a spectacular coastline brimming with significant Atlantic marine history and every seaside activity imaginable.

Atlantic Canada is made up of New Brunswick, Newfoundland & Labrador, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island and is the closest North American destination to Europe. Accessed by direct flights from Gatwick, Heathrow, Glasgow and Dublin, its provinces woo visitors with soft adventure kayaking, hiking and cycling, wildlife and parks.

Travelling in late September and October adds the bonus of spectacular autumn foliage.

COASTAL ACTIVITIES The provinces together have over 43,000km of coastline and visitors have a pick of ways to explore them. Prince Edward Island lends itself to a leisurely self drive with three mapped coastal drives. Prince Edward Island National Park has white, sandy beaches surrounded by dunes while the South Shore features jagged red sandstone cliffs and warm salt water for swimming. In the east there’s a beach with “singing sands”, which literally squeak as you walk along due to its high quartz content.

Nova Scotia and New Brunswick share the Bay of Fundy, home to the highest tides in the world

Newfoundland & Labrador

New Brunswick

Nova Scotia

at 50 feet. Twice a day, over 100 billion tonnes of seawater flows in and out of the Bay with each tide cycle. Hopewell Rocks in New Brunswick have been carved by the power of the tides and visitors can walk on the ocean floor at low tide or kayak up to 50 feet higher at the same spot just six hours later. The Bay is also a lush feeding ground for humpbacks, minke, pilot, fin, and the endangered North Atlantic Right whales. In Nova Scotia, visitors can also experience the power of the tides riding the bore in a zodiac boat.

Newfoundland & Labrador has a rugged coastline and a rich history older than the pyramids. The province is famous for viewing 10,000 year old icebergs along Iceberg Alley by boat, kayak and from land. The scenic East Coast and Viking Trails offer spectacular hiking such as in Gros Morne National Park, and locally-produced iceberg water, iceberg beer and iceberg vodka to help fuel the tour.

MARINE AND WILDLIFE

Prince Edward Island

All four provinces offer quality wildlife viewing excursions, ideal for nature lovers and photographers. Whale watching is a top draw for the region, especially in the Bay of Fundy, Cape Breton Island, Grand Manan Island and along the east coast of Newfoundland & Labrador.

Humpbacks, minke, pilot, orca, fin, the rare right whale all call Atlantic Canada home as well as porpoises, dolphins and seals. Visitors can choose zodiac and tall ship tours, catamarans, yachts,

sellingtravel.co.uk

converted fishing boat, or even sometimes spot them from land.

There are puffins and other seabirds too, plus moose, bears, polar bears (NL only), deer, caribou and more, and in New Brunswick, at the Little, Big Bear Safari, guests can get up close and personal with a black bear in the wild.

ACTIVE TRAVELLERS Soft adventure abounds in this region with no less than seven national parks offering great motorhoming opportunities as well as activities such as sea-kayaking, canoeing, yoga on the beach, cycling and warm-water swimming.

For a challenging hike, recommend Fundy National Park in New Brunswick, Nova Scotia’s Skyline Trail in the Cape Breton Highlands National Park and Gros Morne National Park, an UNESCO World Heritage Site in Newfoundland & Labrador, or check out the Confederation Trail in Prince Edward Island for walking or cycling.

Golf enthusiasts recognise Prince Edward Island as Canada’s number one golf destination with over 30 courses, while Cabot Cliffs Golf Course in Nova Scotia debuted at number 19 on Golf Digest’s list of the World’s 100 Greatest Golf Courses.

The provinces

canada

Ontario – Vibrant cities. Beautiful scenery. New experiences –

O

ntario has appointed a new UK representative office. Selling Canada met the team and heard all about its first agent fam trip – to Blue Mountain Resort, Muskoka, Algonquin and Peterborough

THE DETAILS WHERE: ONTARIO WHAT: FAM TRIP WHEN: APRIL 2016 THE NEW ONTARIO TEAM LED A FAM TRIP IN ONTARIO ALONG WITH GABY KOTIZ FROM OTMPC. AGENTS WERE FROM TRAILFINDERS,

AVA MEHTA is the new Sales and Marketing Account Manager for Ontario Tourism Marketing Partnership Corporation's UK Office. She says: “It’s extremely exciting to be representing a province with such diversity. I love Ontario’s natural beauty as well as its vibrant cities."

MAIN APPEAL "Ontario is a stunning province with fantastic cities and attractions including well-known Toronto, Ottawa and Niagara Falls. The scenery

is beautiful too, with over 250,000 lakes and 280 national and provincial parks waiting to be explored. There’s a lot of experimental products to feature and sell including the EdgeWalk at the CN Tower in Toronto, white-water paddling at the Madawaska Kanu Centre and moose safaris in Algonquin Provincial Park. New this year is a zip-line experience at Niagara Falls."

CANADA AS YOU LIKE IT, CANADIAN SKY AND FLIGHT CENTRE

What they said...

“I LOVE Blue Mountain. I would have no hesitation selling this or coming back as a guest with friends or family. The Ridge Runner was a personal highlight. All the accommodation we stayed in was spacious and great value.”

AGENT SUPPORT "I’d definitely encourage agents to learn about the lesser-known areas and all the outdoor adventures that are on offer. There’s a vast range of activities for all travellers from adventure seekers to families and cultural explorers. We are here to support them with material for clients, promotions and training and they will have the chance to meet Ontario Tourism and partners in the UK in September, and at World Travel Market in November."

Roy Gasson, Canadian Sky “Muskoka’s JW Marriott has a beautiful setting and would appeal to higher-end clients and those looking for more relaxation than experiences, although there's plenty to do and great food!

It is a lovely region for self-driving and is beautiful in the fall!”

Cath Pusey, Canada As You Like It “Arowhon Pines in Algonquin Park was my favourite stop. I loved being out in the wilderness and surrounded by nature.

This would certainly appeal to slightly more adventurous types who still like their creature comforts.”

HIDDEN GEMS

Image: Ava Mehat on tour with UK operators

"Ontario is a fantastic year-round destination – I loved the zip-lining experience at the Scenic Caves in the Blue Mountains as well as the mountain ridge runner (a mountain rollercoaster where you control the speed) that you can also try here!"

Angela Griffin, Flight Centre “I’ve wanted to visit Algonquin Park for years and it didn’t disappoint! You just can’t comprehend the number of lakes that exist and how far the park stretches until you’re there. Loved it!”

Melloney Styles, Trailfinders

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the final word

the quirky side of travel – Vegans, stags, beaches and amazing jobs –

V

egans of the world rejoice! Travel just got easier thanks to a new travel app called Vegan Passport, designed to ensure vegans can meet their dietary requirements wherever they go.

The guide allows your vegan clients to effectively convey their objections to meat, dairy and other products when travelling to countries where they do not speak the language and includes a multi-lingual phrasebook covering the languages of over 96% of the world.

Vegan foodies can now be kept happy in 78 languages including the Nigerian dialects of Hausa and Igbo. And they'll never hurt for a tofu burger in Zulu-speaking areas of South Africa.

As we have all been convinced to believe, a picture really does say a thousand words – which is presumably why the app also includes an ‘if all else fails’ section with a varied selection of images to convey what vegans do and do not eat, wherever in the world they may travel. So that is one set of potentially tricky customers sorted. vegansociety.com

WHAT GOES ON TOUR? You might think you are in the business of creating memorable travel experiences, but if it is stag dos you are booking don't waste too much time on it as evidence from travel site

Is that a gator * on the runway?

Passengers flying from Gatwick to Florida got something of a shock when they saw what appeared to be a large gator on the runway. In fact, three 'models' were painted over five hours to look like a giant alligator –all to promote British Airways’ deals to the Sunshine State.

TOP 10…

Awesome jobs!

Sick of your 9-5 day role and looking for something off the wall? Perhaps floridatic.com has the answer with its top 10 out-of-the-ordinary global jobs:

thestagcompany.com suggests 41% of married men

can't remember much about what they did on their stag night!

Maybe it hs something to do with the age-old tradition of getting blind drunk that produced those responses from a survey of 1,550 men.

However, if you do want to add a few little imporatnt extras, 22% admitted dressing up was definitely involved and 7% claimed part of the event included being tied to a post at some point. So there's a nice couple of travel ideas to suggest to any amnesiac stag parties. thestagcompany.com

BEACH BEAUTIES IN TENERIFE If you have clients keen to keep it clean on holiday check out the beaches of Tenerife as the island now has the most Blue Flag beachfront in the Canaries.

The Blue Flag certification means each beach has been assessed for its environmental health as well as a number of other factors.

Its good news for the island as it looks to boost tourism over the coming months and welcomes a number of new flights from the UK, backed up by a wave of promotional activities aimed at UK tavellers.

Chocolate taster Switzerland

Ice cream taster Italy

Outback adventurer Australia

Toy tester California

Disney princess face character Florida

Coconut safety engineer Thailand

Senior Lego sculptor Denmark

Rollercoaster tester Florida

Dog surfing coach California

Island keeper Australia

hellocanaryislands.com

THE SEPTEMBER 2016 ISSUE OF SELLING TRAVEL WILL FEATURE: • Colorado • Abu Dhabi • Wintersun breaks• Australia's Top End • South Pacific • Southern Florida • Mauritius • Seychelles • Korea • Hong Kong • Peru • Lapland, Santa Breaks • Rhineland • Cruising Asia Pacific CONTACT US sales@bmipublishing.co.uk; editorial@bmipublishing.co.uk PLUS ONLINE Daily Selling Tips • Destination Guides • Photo Galleries • Travel Uni

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