Travel Bulletin 3rd July 2015

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July 3 2015 | ISSUE NO 1,926 | www.travelbulletin.co.uk

Spain How to diversify your clients’ holidays to offer something extra

this week 3 news operators pledge decisive action on rise in disruptive flight passengers

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hotel bulletin research reveals the priciest cities for hotel dining

18 cultural tours operators promote new exploration tours to meet demand

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pacific islands Tahiti highlights calendar of events

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WIN

1 OF 20 PLACES ON A FAM TRIP

Win a place on a Sporting themed FAM to Dubai!

Our 3rd and final Dubai FAM of 2015 will yet again demonstrate Dubai’s reputation for hosting worldclass sporting events. On this trip, you’ll get the chance to join the jubilant crowd at the spectacular Emirates Rugby 7’s, as well as visiting some of the regions numerous attractions. You’ll also get the opportunity to enjoy some of the regions breathtaking accommodation and cuisine with a stay at a luxury resort.

Make a booking to Dubai between 1st July - 31st October 15 which includes Emirates/Qantas flights and a minimum of 3 nights’ accommodation to be in with a chance of winning 1 of 20 places.

Visit travel2.com for full T&Cs.

WIN The Ultimate VIP Holiday to Dubai Win this fantastic 4 night holiday for 2 including flights with Emirates/ Qantas, staying in a Terrace Suite, half board with Imperial Club Access at Atlantis The Palm, Dubai. That’s not all, we’ll also throw in a whopping £2,000 spending money plus much, much more.

To qualify, make a booking to Dubai between 11th Feb – 31st Oct 15 which includes Emirates/Qantas flights and a minimum of 3 nights accommodation.

Visit travel2.com for full T&Cs.

With the Emirates & Qantas partnership, passengers from the UK have the advantage of more regional departures with a total of 18 daily flights to Dubai from 6 UK airports.

WIN

THE ULTIMATE VIP HOLIDAY

Sport & Entertainment Dubai continues to excel in providing the ideal location for a variety of International sporting events, from the richest horseracing event on the planet – The Dubai World Cup, an ATP Tennis tournament – The Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships to the Emirates Rugby 7s. The plethora of stunning hotels, such as the Kerzner group resorts and the numerous daily flights from the UK operated by Emirates & Qantas sits Dubai firmly on the winner’s podium when it comes to sporting events.

THE UK’s 100% Trade Only Tour Operator Call Reservations FREE on 0800 0224 182

@T2News

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GRAB 'EM WHILE THEY'RE HOT...

This Week 3 11

Cover Pictures: Main - Shutterstock - Copyright: In Green

Inset - Chichen Itzal

12 13 14 15 18 20

news operators pledge decisive action on rise in disruptive flight passengers

puzzle bulletin your chance to win a £50 M&S voucher by playing Su Doku

hotel bulletin research reveals the priciest cities for hotel dining

bulletin briefing Colin O’Neill outlines what Advantage is doing in terms of leadership training

personality bulletin the trade manager of the Canadian Tourism Commission takes the hot seat

spain & her islands a round-up of new programme options & developments

cultural tours operators promote new exploration tours to meet demand

pacific islands Tahiti highlights calendar of events

www.travelbulletin.co.uk

All agents making a package booking tomorrow (July 4) to any of Funway Holidays' featured US destinations will be automatically entered into a prize draw for the chance to win a month's supply of American hot dogs. Pictured celebrating the promotion are, from the left: the operator's Stephen Rhodes, Gaby Clark, Keira Yates and Rob Thornton. For details see www.funway4agents.co.uk

Operators pledge action on rise in disruptive flight passengers AS A result of a reported double figure rise in disruptive passenger behaviour, Jet2.com, along with some of the UK’s biggest travel operators, is calling for industry-wide measures to tackle what has become a serious problem for the travel sector.

Phil Ward, managing director of the carrier, said: “We are a family airline and holiday company carrying millions of passengers every year. These are people who have chosen to take their well-earned summer breaks with us and we want them to have a wonderful time. Therefore, under no circumstances will we allow the disruptive few to spoil the experience for the majority of the fantastic customers that fly with us.”

The carrier is working closely with other high profile holiday companies, industry bodies such as BATA (British Air Transport Association), the AOA (Airport Operators Association) and the UK’s leading airports, to put in place a series of comprehensive measures to tackle disruptive conduct associated with air travel.

Over the past two years, unruly and disorderly behaviour (often linked to excessive alcohol consumption prior to

embarkation) has risen drastically onboard aircraft. Cabin crew increasingly have to deal with people displaying abusive, racist and often noisy and aggressive conduct, causing misery and disruption for other passengers.

The airline has already put in place a series of measures under its ‘Onboard Together’ programme, to educate passengers about the effects of alcohol at high altitude, and to outline its policies. It has empowered its staff to take decisions quickly regarding disruptive passengers including verbal and written warnings and, ultimately, the ability to divert the aircraft to the nearest airport to off-load particularly offensive people before flying remaining passengers on to their holiday destination. Measures also include banning disruptive passengers for life, handing them over to the police, issuing a bill for the cost of the diversion and taking legal action, post travel.

The company, along with its fellow operators, has also written to the Secretary of State for Transport, urging more decisive action from the government to help them enforce new policies to ensure unpleasant and disruptive behaviour during air travel is eradicated.

July 3 2015

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newsbulletin HRS reveals cost of stay in UK is £73 more expensive than in Europe LATEST BUSINESS intelligence from hotel solutions provider HRS has revealed the latest figures on average room rates per night for Q1 2015 across the UK and Europe, as well as other developments such as total cost per stay and which cities have the most five-star or boutique hotels in Europe.

By analysing the latest bookings made via the company over the last year, data showed that business travellers typically spend an average of £87 per room, per night in the UK, versus £65 per night in Europe. In terms of average room rates for one- to five-star hotels in the UK in Q1 2015,

London continues to remain the most expensive destination at £116 per night – an increase of 15.6% compared with last year. Meanwhile in Europe (excluding London), Zurich tops the tables with average room rates reaching £110 – again, an increase of 14.9% against the same period last year. When it comes to the total cost of a stay, data showed that including the cost of the hotel room, people on average spend £129 in Europe compared with £202 in the UK – a difference of £73.

Meanwhile, looking at five-star hotels that are bookable via HRS,

London topped the tables with 65 listed, with Prague (41) and Berlin (32) coming in second and third respectively.

Finally, looking at how many boutique hotels were available via the hotel solutions provider, Paris had twice the number of properties in this category compared with 125 in London.

Prague came third with 104 boutique hotels available to choose from via HRS. With these three cities often being referred to as romantic destinations, HRS speculates that people visiting are looking for something a little bit more unique or individual, hence the number of boutique hotels available.

Work to start on £24million west terminal expansion at Bristol Airport WITH WEEKS remaining until the opening of the east terminal extension, Bristol Airport has signed off the next major phase of its expansion programme – a £24million west terminal extension which will transform the security search process for passengers. This is the biggest construction project at the airport since the current terminal building opened in 2000.

As part of the second major extension to the terminal, state-of-the-art technology will be introduced to a significantly enlarged security area in order to deliver a faster, more efficient experience. The 9,000sq. m structure is approximately two and half times larger than the £8.5m east terminal extension, set to be completed this month, and will also create an enlarged baggage reclaim area, customs facilities, arrivals retail, and meet and greet area,

easing congestion and improving services for arriving passengers.

Work on the west terminal extension will be underway in a matter of weeks and is scheduled to open in summer 2016. When completed it will house ten lanes in the central search area alongside two additional security channels in a dedicated Fast Track zone. An enlarged preparation area and significantly longer 21m lanes will enable more passengers to prepare for inspection simultaneously, reducing wait times and raising customer service standards.

As well as delivering immediate benefits to arriving and departing passengers, construction of the west terminal extension will also create space for future improvements to immigration facilities, enabling another bottleneck at busy times to be addressed.

Beyond the airport boundary, improvements to the transport system across the West of England, including the construction of a South Bristol Link, are underway and will enhance access from the north, east and west once completed in 2016.

An artist’s impression of the west terminal

New promotions from DFDS DFDS SEAWAYS has launched two offers on its cross Channel and North Sea services.

For frequent travellers, multi-trip tickets lead in at £27 each way from Dover to France and can be used on either Cross Channel ferries’ Dover to Dunkirk or Dover to Calais services.

Meanwhile, in celebration of its 20th anniversary on the Newcastle-Amsterdam route, the ferry operator has rolled back the years to offer 1995 prices. A two-night mini cruise costs from £59 per person, based on two people sharing, or £42 per person based on four people sharing.

The offer is available on selected departures until August 31 and must be booked before July 13.

Multi-trip tickets can only be booked by calling 0871-222 2788 For mini cruise bookings visit www.dfds.co.uk or call 0871-521 5522.

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KIDDING AROUND...The sales team at SuperBreak recently got a sneak preview of London’s hottest new attraction, Kidzania, ahead of its opening at Westfield last week. Pictured are, from the left: the operator's Donna Smithson, Claire Dutton, Ellen Kennard and Wendy Cameron. The company is currently the only tour operator selling hotel and ticket inclusive packages in the UK.

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FLYING BY…More than 300 runners took to Southampton Airport’s runway for a new charity 5km fun run, the Summer Solstice Sprint, last month, to raise funds for Sophie’s Appeal – a local Southampton charity which provides support to children with cancer. Pictured taking part in the event is the team from Flybe – from the left: Cpt Mike Rodwell, Didier Dejean, Lauren Cashman, Cpt Helen Geering, Katie Ward-Jones, Lucy Smith, Louise Gillard, Jeyshanth Shantakumaran and a friend of the team, Charles Jackson. The run raised more than £4,000.

Europcar launches exclusive offers for travel trade EUROPCAR HAS launched a series of exclusive discounts for the travel trade.

The discounts apply to travel professionals booking a leisure trip and can be applied to the company’s entire fleet. For added flexibility, staff can make savings on both prepaid bookings and when paying at the desk at their destination, ensuring they don’t lose out if their trip is cancelled at short notice.

Ken McCall, managing director for the car rental group, said: “We understand that travel staff often book trips at the last minute, taking advantage of stand-by deals and offers at short notice. Now they can benefit from our car hire without having to pay in advance. In addition, our exclusive offers will apply at any time of the year and no matter how many trips they make.

“Travel staff simply book online at europcar.co.uk/travelstaff and show proof of their profession at the point of pick-up to benefit from our exclusive deals. It’s designed specifically to help travel staff enjoy their leisure trips in the comfort of one of our vehicles.”

www.travelbulletin.co.uk

Elite Island Resorts introduces ‘All-Inclusive PLUS’ programme ELITE ISLAND Resorts has launched a new All-Inclusive PLUS programme, designed to offer more to guests booking into the resort’s Royal Suites at St. James’s Club & Villas, Antigua.

Guests booking a seven-night or longer stay by December 24 will be entitled to complimentary All-Inclusive PLUS benefits in addition to full board and watersports included in all room categories. Additional benefits include a catamaran cruise for

two, two 45-minute spa massages, dinner for two, free in-room Wi-Fi and a bottle of sparkling wine on arrival.

As a PLUS package example, British Airways Holidays offers seven nights at the four-star property from £1,499 per person in a Royal Suite for selected departures in September, including flights from Gatwick and all-inclusive accommodation.

For details call 0844-493 0120.

Trinidad & Tobago announce new eco-tourism trail THE MINISTRY of Tourism for Trinidad and Tobago, in collaboration with the Trinidad and Tobago Incoming Tour Operators Association, has launched a sustainable eco-tourism trail project that will enable visitors and nature enthusiasts to enjoy and experience more of the dual island’s natural beauty.

Over the next five years, the ministry will work with local residents and communities to restore around 1,000km of untouched landscape in the North Coast of Trinidad, with the aim of opening up a number of hiking and biking trails.

Walkers and biking enthusiasts will be

able to experience new trails through the rainforest and along the coastline, with lunch stops at different communities along the way.

Warren Solomon, general manager of marketing for the tourism development company, said: "We are seeing a rise in visitors who are attracted to Trinidad and Tobago due to the strength of its adventure and sports offering and the new eco-trail shows our continued commitment to developing and investing within this area.

We are also looking forward to working closely with the local communities to create a number of long term jobs.”

Gatwick & WestJet team up in new transatlantic agreement GATWICK AIRPORT and WestJet have reached an agreement for the airline to launch flights between London and Canada next year.

By adding London to its list of routes the airline hopes this will further open up the market between North America and London and provide cost effective access to cities in Canada

for British business and leisure travellers, as well as new opportunities for Canadians to visit Britain.

WestJet CEO, Gregg Saretsky, said: “We need more well-managed and efficient airports like Gatwick to continue to offer the best fares available for our guests. As we look at more international destinations as part of our

growth strategy, we will look to airports who share our passion for efficient, low-cost travel combined with a remarkable guest experience. We look forward to, this summer, announcing our entire wide-body schedule and low fares for the spring of 2016.”

For more information see www.gatwickairport.com

July 3 2015

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newsbulletin Birmingham Airport announced as latest sponsor of Travel Bulletin Star Awards BIRMINGHAM AIRPORT is the UK’s third largest airport outside London and the UK’s seventh largest overall, handling almost ten million passengers per Mandy Haque year. With more than £300million invested in the airport over the past ten years, Birmingham now offers world class facilities and stateof-the-art infrastructure, including a newly extended runway.

The airport’s business development manager - tour operations, corporate and travel trade, Mandy Haque, said: “Having won the Star Awards in 2014 for Best Airport, we are pleased to be involved with this award scheme again this year and sponsoring the Star Award for Best Business Airline category. We are also delighted to be shortlisted again this year for Best Airport - and thanks to those for the nominations received so far.

“Being recognised as Best UK Airport by the travel trade is really testament to the work that the Birmingham Airport Gurus have been doing over the last few years to work with agents to showcase Birmingham’s offer and develop

relationships with those customer facing partners. The Star Awards allows the team to continue communicating and networking with our partners on the front line who are selling our products, so Travel Bulletin has become a vital platform for Birmingham Airport to be involved with.

“Birmingham Airport is going from strength to strength and has achieved record passenger numbers consistently all year so far. And with more carriers such as American Airline, Norwegian, Vueling and Icelandair having launched this year, as well as new charter Beijing flights running all summer and several new retail brands such as Boss and Victoria Secret now on site, Birmingham Airport has more choice than ever for those wanting to travel from their local airport on business or leisure.

“The Birmingham Airport Gurus – myself, Stefanie and Tracy - look forward to attending the Travel Bulletin Star Awards this September and presenting the award for Best Business Airline. And who knows… we might even be accepting an award too if we can get enough votes from you!”

Third of Brits feel guilty about overindulging NEW RESEARCH has found that a third of British holidaymakers (29%) feel guilty about overindulging on food and drink while on holiday, with one in ten (11%) saying they feel guilty upon their return and one in ten (13%) even claiming to feel guilty while they are still away.

The research, conducted

by French specialist travel operator Belle France which specialises in walking and cycling breaks across France – also reveals that the feeling of guilt could last as long as 16 days after returning home from a holiday, while one in 20 say that the guilt kicks in even before the holiday has begun.

Women were found to be the most concerned about overindulging, with 29% claiming to feel guilty compared to 19% of men.

Visit www.bellefrance.com or call 01580-214010 for details on the company's portfolio.

Eurostar offers summer journeys for kids for £1

ON A HIGH(WAY) ...Gold Medal and 30 winning agents headed Down Under on the operator’s latest mega fam to the Northern Territory and Tropical North Queensland. Travelling with Qantas, the itinerary explored the Red Centre together as a group, before flying over to Cairns where the group split into three and headed to Port Douglas, Daintree and Cooktown. Pictured are the Port Douglas group enjoying the view from Captain Cook Highway, from the left: Alex Meakin, Midcounties Co-operative; Kim Robertson, Not Just Travel; Julie Gooding, Abbotts Travel; Jai Porter (front),TravelLab; Jane Parsonage, Thomas Cook; Wendy Veal, Independent Travel Experts; Ailsa John, The Travel House; Kerry Gallagher, Gold Medal; and Janet Merrins, Thomas Cook.

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Eurostar is offering child fares (aged four-12 years) from £1 each way this summer, available in Standard and Standard Premier classes, for travel to Paris, Brussels, Lille, Calais or any Belgium station.

Tickets are on sale until July 9 for travel between August 1-27. Passengers can also benefit from reductions at some of each city’s cultural highlights, using their Eurostar ticket to get two-for-one entry to a range of top museums and galleries.

See www.eurostar.com or call 0343-218 6186.

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newsbulletin New expedition style coastal voyages & new excursions from Hurtigruten HURTIGRUTEN HAS revamped its coastal product to include new expedition style voyages and a la carte dining, as well as a number of new excursions and private transfer options.

Clients looking for an authentic journey along Norway’s rugged coastline can now join new expedition style voyages along the traditional coastal route.

From January 1, 2016, three of the operator's coastal ships (the MS Nordnorge, MS Nordkapp and MS Nordlys) will operate along the same coastal route as their sister ships, but will be dedicated to a new concept, combining the best elements of the existing coastal and explorer programmes.

All three ships will offer all the activities and services expected on a voyage but with an expedition team on-board, who will offer a series of hikes in selected ports as well as daily lectures about flora and fauna, fishing traditions, polar and viking history as well as geology, glaciology and climate.

Prices for the three ships will be the same as for the rest of the coastal fleet, with the lectures included.

A hiking pass will cost extra and is payable locally.

In addition to the hikes being offered on the explorer style voyages, there are three new additional hiking excursions offered on all ships including a ‘Mountain hike with husky’ in Kirkenes (£80), ‘Hiking Mount Fløien’ (£40) and ‘Mountain hike in the

Lofoten Islands’ (£61).

Wannabe Arctic explorers can now extend their trip with a Sami reindeer sleighing trip including an overnight stay in the traditional Sami Lavvo (tent) near Tromso (£308).

Alternatively, those embarking or disembarking in Tromso can also book a full day tour of Sommarøy Island for £226 per person.

The company has also changed its cabin categorisation system, making it simpler for guests to choose accommodation that suits their needs.

Guests booking a suite will also now get wine included with dinner and private transfers (Bergen only), as well as an upgraded amenity kit.

Those booking a superior cabin can also arrange private transfers, but at an additional cost.

The new programme includes winter trips to search for the Northern Lights and year-round departures, including trips along the coast, under the Midnight sun.

A Classic Voyage North from Bergen to Kirkenes, departing on MS Kong Harald on November 21, 2016, costs from £689 per person on a full board basis. Flights cost from an additional £395 per person.

Bookings made by July 31 will receive £160 per person on-board credit, to spend during their voyage.

For more information call 020-8846 2666 or visit www.hurtigruten.co.uk /agents

Wizz Air announces new flights from BHX WIZZ AIR has announced direct flights from Birmingham to Warsaw and Budapest. Both routes will be operated from mid-September with two flights per week with fares from £15.49.

For details see www.wizzair.com

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SPECIAL OFFERS

REETHI BEACH RESORT MALDIVES EXCLUSIVE O&E TRAVEL TRADE OFFER!!!

Reethi Villa on BB basis for 6 Nights with Return Domestic Flight + Boat Transfers From £ 299 per person

Valid for various periods from now through to end of the 2015

RONIL ROYALE GOA, INDIA FANTASTIC OFFER! 7 Nights from £59 per person based on Bed & Breakfast Extra Nights £8 per person per night Valid for stays between 01 Oct 15 – 30 Apr 16

MORE EXCLUSIVE DEALS FORTRAVELTRADE PERSONNEL ONLYVISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE INFORMATION SRI LANKA - MAURITIUS - SEYCHELLES - INDIA - UAE Over 150 hotels and a selection of tours available on our website Including exclusive offers for Summer 2015 and Winter 2015/16

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

Terms & Conditions Apply

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newsbulletin Travel Partner launch from Avis AVIS CAR RENTAL has launched its new 24/7 concierge service, Travel Partner.

Costing £8.99 per day, and available to book online, the service offers advice and information to customers during their trip.

It allows customers to

report the loss of mobile phones, bank cards, luggage and passports, and helps to trace items. Customers can also request the contact details of local businesses, verbal translations and realtime flight status information.

For details see www.avis.com

New deals to Mallorca as Jet2.com & Jet2holidays boost winter sun options JET2.COM AND JET2HOLIDAYS have expanded their winter sun programme, including more flights to Alicante and new flights and holidays to Mallorca.

A total of 42 extra flights will be available to the Costa Blanca from Glasgow, Leeds and Manchester airports between September 30 and November 16, providing customers with the chance to experience the Benidorm Fiesta (November 7-11).

From February 11, 2016, a new winter programme to Mallorca will also be available from Edinburgh, Leeds Bradford and Manchester airports, with a total of 19 winter properties available through Jet2holidays and Jet2CityBreaks.

For more information call 0800-408 5587 or visit trade.jet2holidays.com

Up to £600 early booking discounts with AmaWaterways AMAWATERWAYS HAS issued its 2016 brochure which features new itineraries, ships and discounts.

The company is offering customers reduced prices on any European seven or 14-night cruise booked before July 31, with discounts of £300 and £600 per person available respectively.

Discounts of £150 are also available for Vietnam and Cambodia or Myanmar cruises in January, February and March 2016, with the discount doubling to £300 per person for departures after April 2016.

Two new vessels have also been announced, with the AmaViola and AmaStella offering customers larger suites, heated swimming pools, fitness rooms and more.

As an example of prices, a seven-night cruise on the AmaViola, departing on December 8, 2016, is available from £1,562 per person including full board with unlimited drinks with meals, Wi-Fi and excursions.

Other brochure highlights include 34 wine sailings for 2016, the company's new 'Taste of Bordeaux' itinerary and five unique art cruises, which give guests the chance to attend painting workshops and tours.

In addition, the line has introduced itineraries across southeast Asia and Africa, such as a ten-night 'Golden Treasures of Myanmar cruise', departing on September 22, 2016, with prices from £2,813 per person, including full board with unlimited drinks with meals, Wi-Fi and excursions.

For details call 0808-256 8422 or see www.amawaterways.co.uk

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Newsbites ●

LONDONERS AND visitors are invited to experience and celebrate the best of South Korean culture at a free oneday 'London Korean Festival' in Trafalgar Square on Sunday August 9. The event brings together a mix of modern and traditional Korean culture with a dynamic programme of K-Pop, dance from classic to break dance, Korean food, including live demonstrations by celebrity chef Judy Joo, plus E-Sports Games and live music.

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INSIDER JOURNEYS is celebrating Vietnam going visa free for UK travellers by offering £100 price reductions across every small group journey incorporating the destination for seven days or more, based on departures made by December 31, for bookings taken by July 31.

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SWISS HAS unveiled further details of its new Bombardier CSeries aircraft fleet, which it is acquiring for its European short- and medium-haul network. The carrier expects to take delivery of the first of its new CSeries aircraft – in the CS100 version – in mid-2016.

Details at www.swiss-cseries.com/en

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GUESTS TRAVELLING with Jet Airways can look forward to a superior lounge experience at Heathrow Terminal 4 following an agreement with Plaza Premium Lounge.

The airline's Premiere (Business Class) and JetPrivilege Platinum and Gold members now have access to the lounge free of charge.

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SMALL AND medium sized hospitality venues are losing business by failing to meet basic customer Wi-Fi needs, according to recent research from NETGEAR. The company found that 76% of hospitality venues believe quality of service and facilities are more important to customers than Wi-Fi, yet a third (33%) of leisure travellers say they would not return to a hotel if Wi-Fi was poor, with this rising to two-thirds (67%) when extended to business guests.

DESTINOLOGY IS offering seven nights’ accommodation at Atmosphere Kanifushi Maldives from £2,759, based on two adults staying in a Sunset Beach Villa for bookings made by August 14. The deal, which offers a saving of more than £900 and is valid for stays until August 31, includes Economy flights from Heathrow with Etihad, seaplane transfers and all-inclusive accommodation. To book or for more information call 0800-634 2866 or see www.destinology.co.uk.

For details about the resort visit www.atmosphere-kanifushi.com

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agentbulletin Booking incentives ●

CLUB MED is opening its preview sales for summer 2016 on July 8 for departures between May 2 and December 11, 2016.

Agents who book within the first three days of the sales opening will be guaranteed a 15% early bird discount (bookings made between July 8-10). There is a total prize fund of £1,000 for the top five selling agencies, split into £400, £250, £150 and two lots of £100.

For details see www.clubmedpages.com/ summer16_preview

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TAM, A member of LATAM Airlines Group, has launched its first national agent incentive to engage travel agents and boost sales over the summer period. Agents who sell TAM flights between nine UK airports and Sao Paulo or on the Heathrow to Rio de Janeiro route by July 10 will receive an extra 4% commission upfront. The deal applies to Business and Economy Class flights and travel must be before December 31 to qualify.

For details call 020-8600 6700 or visit www.tamairlines.com

AGENT OFFER

COSMOS TOURS & Cruises is offering the chance to win a place on its ten-day ‘Hig hlights of Morocco’ tour to see the country’s citi es, souks, historic sights and landscapes. For a chance to win, agents should email their name and agency details to agencysales@cosmostours.co .uk by July 10. The prize is based on an August 10 departure for one person and includes flights, nine nights' breakfast accommodation, six dinners, guided sightseeing and overseas transfers.

FANCY A FAM? VISIT ORLANDO, SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment, Universal Orlando Resort and Walt Disney World Resort, in partnership with British Airways, will host its annual Orlando super fam from September 17-24 and there are currently 34 places available on the trip. To become eligible for a place, agents must be over 21 years of age and complete all modules of the Orlando Travel Academy (www.orlandotravelacademy.com) by July 12.

It’s in the stars…

What’s in store for Cancer? rt and achieve your Now is the time to follow your hea You can expect the goals in your personal ventures. strain any relationsupport of others but try not to need determination ships. This period in your life will to lose what you have and attention so be careful not already worked for.

Lucky number: 7 Lucky day: Thursday

DINNER DATE...Tauck hosted a VIP dinner at Edgar House in Chester recently for 16 agent partners. The event included canapés on the lawn overlooking the roman city walls and River Dee, followed by dinner. Pictured enjoying the event are, from the left: Kerry Cook, Deva Travel; Steve Spivak and Kathryn Coles, Tauck; and Caroline Jeacock, Deva Travel.

EUROPEAN RAIL TRAVEL AT YOUR FINGERTIPS - View fares and book in a few clicks - Great promotions and incentives - Earn commission

www.voyages-sncf.eu

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newsbulletin

Scheduled to open this summer, Rio de Janeiro’s new Museum of Tomorrow (Museu do Amanhã) is based around a profound prediction: that the next five decades will contain more changes in science and technology than the previous ten thousand years. The museum is part of Rio de Janeiro’s plan to further rejuvenate the city ahead of the 2016 Olympics, and will focus on the future of science and technology.

The museum’s content is based around three narrative threads. The first is the tension between the cosmic sciences, such as astronomy and cosmology, and the earth sciences, such as geology and biology. The second examines three dimensions of our lives on earth: the history of the formation of matter, the unfolding of the organisation and life, plus the emergence of thought. And the third aspect focuses on human behaviour and ethics, and will invite visitors to consider how future generations should fairly distribute their resources, and how to deal with pressing global issues such as globalisation. For details see http://museudoamanha.org.br/?lang=en

Family glamping breaks at Haven this summer from £169 for three nights GUESTS CAN opt for a glamping break with Haven this summer, with options starting from £169 per family.

The company offers four types of glamping: Safari Tents – a luxurious glamping option with a wide wooden veranda to relax or play in the shade.

Offering two bedrooms, which sleep up to five, safari tents are available at Burnham-On-Sea in Somerset, Greenacres in North Wales, Kiln Park in South Wales, Littlesea or Seaview in Dorest, Perran Sands in Cornwall and Wild Duck in Norfolk.

Supertents are exclusive to Perran Sands and offer an open lounge area and three bedrooms that sleep up to six. The company’s Yurts offer round tents that sleep up to four, with

Haven Safari Tent

additional bedrooms to sleep families of six or eight, while Geo Domes – the company’s newest glamping addition, offer space for extended family and friends looking to holiday together, with three interconnecting canvas

domes which includes two bedrooms that sleep up to four people.

Prices start at £169 based on a family of up to five sharing a Safari Tent for three nights, arriving on September 25 at selected parks.

First Choice Holiday Villages trial new X-Flighters scheme for children FIRST CHOICE has introduced ‘X-Flighters’ skateboard and scooter lessons for children staying at selected Holiday Village resorts this summer.

The company has added ‘X-Flighters’ to its activity programmes in Mallorca, Kos, Rhodes and Turkey. The roll out follows the success of a pilot scheme last summer at the operator's all-inclusive Holiday Village Algarve in Portugal, which proved to be a huge hit with children aged eight years and over (as well as some adults).

With the skateboarding trend already inspiring more and

more youngsters to test out thrilling new tricks and skills, ‘XFlighters’ is the company’s first urban sports programme aimed at giving families a chance to try something new and exciting during their holiday.

Staff have been given training to broaden their urban sporting skills by one of the UK’s top skateboarding instructors so they can teach children and adults alike to work on their tricks and skills throughout their holiday. Customers also have the opportunity to take part in three back-to-back sessions whether beginner, intermediate or advanced.

New ‘Visit Maldives Year 2016’ campaign from MMPRC offers range of events MALDIVES MARKETING and PR Corporation (MMPRC) has launched its new marketing campaign ‘Visit Maldives Year 2016’.

To mark its launch, national and international events will take place during the year as well as educational

10

July 3 2015

and awareness programmes, competitions and prizes such as free holidays to the Maldives, while the trade is also set to enjoy a number of road shows and trade fairs held during 2015/16.

The main objective of the campaign is

to position the Maldives as an exclusive tourist destination by showcasing the islands’ diversified tourism product and therefore to reach the goal of significantly increasing visitor arrivals by 1.5 million.

For details see www.visitmaldives.com

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S03 TB0307 2015 News 2_Layout 1 01/07/2015 11:31 Page 11

puzzlebulletin Travagrams

Su Doku Win a £50 M&S voucher in the travelbulletin Su Doku prize puzzle

Can you solve the following anagrams to decipher the destination & tour operator?

Number: 026

Daily He 2 Jots

A➠

B➠

Offers family package holidays from airport bases across the north of the UK

C➠

Alas Resident

D➠

competition@travelbulletin.co.uk Closing date for entries is Thursday, July 9th. Solution and new puzzle will appear next week.

The winner for 19th June is Jackie Lang, Rapid Travel in Southampton .

June 19 Solution: A=9 B=2 C=6 D=8

Number: 026

Crossword

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Copyright: niall dunne

Found in the Pacific Ocean this destination is famous for its moai heads

Where Am I? Copyright: edella

Fill in all the squares in the grid so that each row, column and each of the 3 x 3 squares contains the digits 1-9.

Once you have completed the puzzle, simply identify the numbers that relate to the letters, A, B, C and D then e-mail the solution, with your name, company name, and full postal address plus phone and ABTA number if applicable to:

Famed for its frescoes by Michelangelo and site of the Papal conclave

Fill in the crossword to reveal the mystery location highlighted by the green squares.

Across 1. Swan Hellenic cruise ship, sounds like a Roman goddess (7) 4. Algiers international airport code (3) 6. Kathmandu is the capital (5) 8. Popular Spanish holiday isle (5) 9. Belgian port (6) 11. King who sealed the Magna Carta 800 years ago (4) 14. Company specialising in holidays for over 50's and solo travellers (4) 15. Country host of the 2015 FIFA Women's World Cup (6) 17. Flows through France, sounds reasonable (5) 18. US airline (5) 20. First name of Wimbledon tennis presenter (3) 21. One of the Leeward Islands (7)

Down 1. Yellow goggle-wearing characters appearing at a cinema near you (7) 2. Naples Capodichino airport code (3) 3. Capital of Samoa (4) 4. US state, home to Monument Valley (7) 5. Baga is a popular resort in this part of India (3) 7. City capital of Upper Austria (4) 10. Lanzarote resort, Costa ___ (7) 12. The Maid of the Mist sails below these Falls (7) 13. One of the Swiss cantons (4) 16. TV detective played by Brenda Blethyn (4) 17. Scandinavian Airlines, initially (3) 19. Lugano airport code (3)

For the solution to the Crossword, Where Am I? and Travagrams, please see page 22 July 3 2015

11

S03 TB0307 2015 News 2_Layout 1 01/07/2015 11:31 Page 12

hotelbulletin DoubleTree by Hilton announces launch of London Docklands Riverside DOUBLETREE BY Hilton has added to its portfolio with the addition of a new hotel, DoubleTree by Hilton London Docklands Riverside.

The hotel offers 378 guestrooms, a selection of restaurants and bars and views across London. A crossriver shuttle ferry is offered to the Canary Wharf Pier, where guests can access the Canary Wharf business and shopping district as well as London’s famous attractions downstream via Thames Clippers including the Tower of London, London Eye and

Palaces of Westminster.

Guests can enjoy contemporary dining experiences at the hotel’s restaurant Columbia, overlooking the Thames and Canary Wharf, private dining, intimate special events in the Snug and drinks in the outdoor kitchen along the Terrace. The hotel also caters for river cruises, offering bespoke menus for private boat hire events for between 12 to 48 guests direct from the hotel pier.

For more information or to book call 020-7231 1001 or see www.doubletree.com

THE FIVE-star Athenaeum Hotel & Apartments has unveiled the only outside dining space on Piccadilly, now open for the public to enjoy from 08:00-21:00 daily. Located opposite Green Park and nearby the Royal Parks of London, diners can enjoy an all day menu catering for morning coffee, alfresco lunch or a glass of rose.

Details at www.athenaeumhotel.com

Geneva is the priciest city for a club sandwich and a full day of hotel dining

DoubleTree by Hilton London Docklands Riverside

Indonesia & China expansion from Alila ALILA HOTELS & Resorts is opening three new properties in autumn – two in Indonesia and one in China.

Alila Anji, the group’s first property in Zhejiang, China will open along with the much-anticipated Alila Seminyak, its fifth property in Bali and Alila Solo opens in Central Java, Indonesia as the first luxury design hotel in the city.

In September, Alila Seminyax will open in Bali and will offer a spa, gym and restaurant serving authentic Asian cuisine. The location of the property also offers guests the chance to explore the local beaches, boutiques and galleries. The resort has a high EarthCheck rating due to its use of recyclable building materials, paperless system and low energy light fixtures. Prices lead in at US$265 per night based on two people sharing.

Alila Solo is opening in October in Java and gives guests the opportunity to discover Javanese culture, such as the world's largest Buddhist temple. The hotel features a rooftop bar, a swimming pool and gym, as well as a kids' club. Room rates start from $90 per night based on two people sharing.

Meanwhile, the company's first property in China is set to open at the end of the year. Alila Anji is surrounded by bamboo groves and white-tea plantations, and overlooks a lake. The hotel offers guests the chance to relax in one of the seven treatment rooms of the Spa Alila and to try traditional Chinese medicine.

Prices lead in at $320 per night based on two people sharing.

For details see www.alilahotels.com

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July 3 2015

HOTELS.COM continues to uncover the dining costs of hotels worldwide with its annual price barometer, the Club Sandwich Index (CSI).

This year, the elevated report added three more hotel dining items to make the Index a more comprehensive indicator for guests to understand the costs associated with a full day of hotel dining in hotels worldwide.

Based on its findings, Geneva is not only the priciest city for a club sandwich, but the Swiss city has also topped the charts as the most expensive destination to enjoy a full-day hotel dining experience (£56.53), while Bogota, Colombia is the most valuefor-money destination with an average price of £19.60.

The improved CSI report incorporates the prices of four main dining options available to hotel guests throughout the day - a Club sandwich for supper, a burger meal consisting of a burger, fries and soda for lunch or dinner, a cup of coffee for teatime and a glass

of house red wine for postdinner drinks.

The average prices are calculated from real prices (including taxes and fees) paid by guests for all four items in 30 hotels, in the capital or an important tourist city of the 28 countries surveyed, across three-, four- and five-star hotel categories.

While hungry travellers can get the most bang for their buck in Bogota, which clocked an average dining cost of £19.60, Rio de Janeiro (£22.28) and Buenos Aires (£26.26) also gave the Colombian capital a run for its money with their affordable dining costs.

Hotel guests in South Korea paid the most to get their caffeine fix, with Seoul dominating the list for the priciest cuppa at £6.34 on average.

Interestingly, patrons to a five-star hotel in Paris found it more expensive to indulge in a glass of house red wine (£15.01) than club sandwiches in 19 other cities, including New York City, Dublin, Sydney and Berlin.

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bulletinbriefing

Industry Insight by...

It’s tough at the top says Colin O’Neill, business development director at Advantage

F YOU can cast your mind back for a moment, I wrote an article last August which was entitled ‘Piggy in the Middle’. In it, I focused on the training development activity that we were undertaking to support the middle managers in our member businesses. I felt that a huge amount of focus was placed on developing the skills of frontline staff and not enough emphasis was placed on the role of the middle manager. We have subsequently addressed that skills gap through our Inspire training programme which is being extended across the group.

Our attention has now turned to business owners and the launch of a leadership training course in the third week of July.

We realise that as competitive pressures and overall growth expectations increase, the role of the business leader becomes more important. We therefore believe it is critical that we support our business owners as much as possible.

To that end, we teamed up with leading training organisation Future Sales Factory and Amadeus to launch a series of leadership training days for Advantage business leaders. Each event will be limited to 12 delegates in order to maximise the value of the learning and interaction and is applicable to both leisure and business travel members.

The programme is entitled: ‘The standards that you walk past are the standards that you accept’ and has the following objectives:

I

● To

be able to coach the staff you are responsible for and provide effective feedback.

From a content perspective, the course will consider: ● What

is leadership, what qualities does a great leader have, what does a great leader do?

● To

be able to define exactly what leadership is, within the environment in which you work.

● To

understand your own leadership and personal brand and adjust if appropriate.

● Developing ● Setting

your own standards.

● Personal ● To

others and developing teams.

brands.

never allow yourself to “walk past” poor standards. ● Giving

feedback.

● An

ability to define the leadership skills you need to apply in order to increase your own and your team’s performance.

● Setting ● Living

expectations.

your brand – always.

● To

understand the importance of communication skills and be able to apply practical skills and demonstrate understanding of difficult conversations.

● To

be able to review others and your own performance.

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Ultimately, we recognise that it can be a tough and challenging business being a business leader and we want to ensure that all of our member owners are fully equipped to face those challenges head on.

July 3 2015

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personalitybulletin

Adam Hanmer Trade manager, Canadian Tourism Commission At work What other companies/organisations have you previously worked for?

I started life as a travel agent with Key Travel, which was a great start in the travel industry and then I was product manager at Pearls of the Ocean - a scuba diving tour operator. The last 12 years have been sales and marketing with representation firms Supereps, Sandra Leech Company and Four bgb.

At home What's your favourite household gadget?

Sky TV - I do love my cricket and sport in general.

What are your favourite TV programmes?

I was quite excited to see there was a second series of Silicon Valley coming up as I loved the first season.

Who does the cooking?

Before I met my wife I did a lot of cooking, but my wife is much better so she is the master chef in our household. I get let loose on the BBQ and that is about it.

What's a typical weekend for you like?

All about the kids - I have three girls under 5 so keeping them entertained keeps weekends busy.

What's your guilty pleasure?

Made in Chelsea.

What do you do to relax?

I love cycling and commute to work on my bike. I also cycle to meetings in central London so if I can get out on the bike, great.

Otherwise holidaying - even now we have young kids I max out the holidays. This year we have been to Dominican Republic for Easter and are heading to Bali and Australia in the summer for a family wedding. My four-year old daughter already has BA bronze status.

What's been your latest DIY project?

We are renting our house out in Air BnB on weekends and whilst we are on holiday this summer, so I have had to get the house in shape and put right all those little things that are not quite right over the last month.

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July 3 2015

If you could change one thing in the industry what would it be?

I’d be very keen to see the end of APD to make long-haul travel that bit more affordable.

What personal item do you have on your desk at work?

My Bose headphones.

What's the best thing about your job?

I get to do a real mix of marketing which I love, organising and hosting events, key account management and training and working with agents. Getting out to Canada is obviously the best bit and being the second largest country in the world, there is plenty of scope to keep exploring.

What's a typical day like?

With three young girls I almost feel I have done a day’s work by the time I get into the office. Getting them all up, breakfasted and ready for nursery and school is always a mission before I get out of the door. Days vary from being in the office handling emails, planning campaigns and events to being out and about at meetings and events.

What's your favourite travel app?

Probably the BA app - as a family we try and fly with them.

Who has been your inspiration in the travel industry?

Chris Lee at the Tourism Authority of Thailand has been a great mentor to me. He is a really good guy and always has time for a chat.

What was the last email you received?

An email about the Explore Canada Mega Fam which is taking place in September with 200 agents, 50 of whom are coming from the UK, so it takes a bit of organising.

At play Where would you most like to visit and why?

Aside from Canada of course, South Africa and the Maldives are high on the list. I am hoping to take my wife to Cape Town for a short break for her 40th later in the year if we can sort the child care for the kids.

What are your hobbies?

I love cricket and used to play for the Whalers who are a London team. I toured Kenya and Sri Lanka with them where we had a great time and played at test grounds.

What's your favourite (non-work related) website?

BBC Sport. I love my sport and like to keep up to date on everything that is going on.

What is your best quality?

I would say being a people person and building relationships. I love that side of the

business getting to know people and working with them.

What's your most embarrassing moment?

I was on a ski fam about four years ago whilst hosting a group of agents in Selva, South Tyrol, which was one of my clients at the time. We were doing the Sella Ronda, which is quite a tough day ski tour and I thought it would be a good idea to do it on skis (which I have been on for about four days several years previous) rather than a snowboard, which I am competent on.

Needless to say I could hardly get down the first red and had to get a taxi back to the ski shop to get a plank and catch up with the group for lunch. Not my finest moment.

Do you have any nicknames?

Adamski.

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spain&herislands How to diversify your clients’ holidays to offer something extra

by KEESIA SAMUELS, product & commercial manager, Cosmos Tours & Cruises Shutterstock - Copyright: Sean Pavone

S

INCE THE early 1960s when our customers were some of the first to travel on a package holiday to Spain, the way people travel, the types of holiday and the choice of regions, cities and towns have all changed beyond recognition. One thing remains the same, Spain continues to have the same appeal to the British traveller as it did all those years ago.

A DIFFERENT STYLE OF TOURING To adapt to the changing market, we have changed our holidays to Spain to appeal to a broader range of customers from short breaks and tours, to river cruises and twin-centres.

Customers can experience the excitement, culture, history and natural beauty of Spain on our ‘relax and explore’ holidays, a more relaxed way of touring based on a single or twin-centre with included excursions.

The twin-centre of Seville and Mijas is a wonderful combination with included visits to the Spanish Riding School in Jerez de la Frontera, guided sightseeing in Seville and Granada and the option to join in with a colourful Flamenco show to provide a really authentic experience!

TOURS & RIVER CRUISES OFFER GREAT VALUE For those wanting to explore more, an escorted tour or river cruise in Spain offers customers the opportunity of seeing much more of this stunning country, as well as great value for money with accommodation, guided touring, travel and sometimes meals included. To book the equivalent, would cost a great deal more.

If your customer is keen to experience Spain’s fascinating history, culture and architecture, a classic tour such as our 15-day ‘Spanish Panorama‘ is ideal.

Starting and ending in the capital city of Madrid, it includes visits to the Moorish styled city of Granada, Cordoba, Seville and Ronda with it authentic tapas bars, Barcelona, the Basque country in the north to see Bilbao’s famous Guggenheim Museum, as well as San Sebastian and further west to the spectacular Castilla Leon region.

Those wanting to discover a lesser known area such as Galicia in the north west can enjoy the striking Atlantic Coast, rolling green countryside, seafood restaurants and famous pilgrimage centre of Santiago de Compestela on an eight-day ‘Discover Green Galicia’ tour. With the

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introduction of easyJet’s direct flights from the UK, we are planning to introduce shorter gourmet themed breaks to Galicia next year.

An alternative to touring is river cruising. One of our best selling river cruises in Europe is on MS Belle de Cadix, sailing past pretty wine villages and through stunning landscapes on the longest river in Andalucia, the Guadalquivir; a relaxing way of experiencing the beautiful region with all excursions, all-inclusive drinks and meals included in the price.

Sightseeing in Seville, a walking tour of Cadiz, a visit to Jerez’s famed Alcazar and cathedral, Manzilla wine tasting and an equestrian display at Sanlucar de Barradameda, plus a visit to the famous Moorish palace and gardens of Alhambra are just some of the highlights. Mooring up in Seville for three nights gives customers enough time to enjoy the fascinating history, architecture and cuisine of the area.

EASILY ACCESSIBLE FROM THE UK We have access to the broadest choice of flights and offer as many as eight UK airports to fly to Spanish cities, a real plus point for customers who want the ease of flying from their local airport.

Agents can encourage customers to spend a little longer and see more of Spain with a few more days spent in one of its beautiful cities at the beginning or end of a tour.

PERFECT HOLIDAYS FOR SINGLE TRAVELLERS Touring is a great way for single people to enjoy a holiday with like-minded people without having to travel on their own as they can enjoy the social side of being part of a group.

For those travelling on their own, it’s best to book early to take advantage of not having to pay a single supplement available on a choice of tours in Spain.

Regardless of whether customers are travelling with someone or alone, escorted touring is a great way for anyone to experience more of a country or destination than just a city break.

Our experienced tour directors have a real passion for travel and are amazingly knowledgeable about the countries we feature so they really bring a destination to life.

July 3 2015

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spain&herislands

HOTEL GARONDA ...has opened after a complete refurbishment as the first five-star hotel in Playa de Palma. Located on the beach, and close to Palma’s city centre, Garonda opens its doors offering 149 guestrooms, divided into six different categories, including 30 large junior suites which now feature a Jacuzzi and an outdoor terrace overlooking the sea. The hotel also offers a new themed restaurant – Mikel & Pintxo - a tapas bar located on the beach promenade serving classic tapas.

For details see www.hotelgarondamallorca.com

Palladium Hotels & Resorts develops adult-only hotel portfolio in Ibiza THIS SUMMER sees a number of developments for Ibiza’s adult-only hotel offering with the former Fiesta Hotel Palmyra, Fiesta Hotel Don Carlos and Fiesta Cala Llonga becoming part of the Palladium Hotels & Resorts portfolio.

Rural boutique property, Agroturismo Sa Talaia, has also been transformed into one of the island’s top health and wellness retreats, and the island’s flagship adult-only property, Ushuaïa Ibiza Beach Hotel, adding to its gastro offering, bringing the number of onsite restaurants to five.

As an example, Palladium Hotel Palmyra (formerly Fiesta Hotel Palmyra) offers a beachfront location on the promenade, 300m from San Antonio. The hotel has been transformed into a four-star superior property and features a new à la carte restaurant with an outdoor terrace serving a range of Mediterranean dishes.

The pool areas have also been refreshed with gardens, hammocks and parasols, while a small gym as well as a series of sports activities (including windsurfing, golf, diving and parasailing) are also available.

For more information see www.palladiumhotelgroup.com Palladium Hotel Palmyra

InBrief ● SANTA CRUZ, the capital city of Tenerife, will be the host venue for Seatrade Cruise Med 2016, the largest cruise industry event focussing on the Mediterranean and its adjoining seas. The event will take place between September 21-23.

See www.webtenerife.co.uk ●RIVIERA TRAVEL has introduced a new tour to Spain. The seven-day ‘Santiago, Bilbao & the Highlights of Castile & Leon’ costs from £849 per person in four-star accommodation including breakfast and five dinners. It also includes a number of guided excursions including a visit to Bilbao’s Guggenheim Museum and a guided tour of Burgos’s Gothic cathedral; plus flights; transfers; and a tour manager.

See www.rivieratravel.co.uk/agents ● SIAM PARK in Tenerife will see the opening of a new attraction this summer. ‘Singha’, currently under construction, will be a 200m-long bendy waterslide that will simulate the feel of a rollercoaster with its high speeds and small jumps.

Details at www.siampark.net ● NH Hotel Group has unveiled a new Premium concept for its guests: VIP Level. The experience guarantees the most exclusive and personalised service from the NH Collection brand and includes preferential reservations at DiverXO by David Muñoz, (the only restaurant with three Michelin stars in Madrid); an exclusive guest relations service; and access to a private lounge for meetings. NH Collection Eurobuilding has become the first hotel in the group to introduce the new experience.

Details at www.nh-hotels.com ● MELIÁ HOTELS International has announced the relaunch of its MeliáRewards consumer loyalty programme to encourage repeat stays. The programme invites guests to ‘Collect Emotions’, and has been redesigned to seek a greater emotional bond with members by providing surprises for guests throughout their stay.

See www.meliahotelsinternational.com

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P f M t L L M

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spain&herislands Iberostar opens new property in Mallorca

SuperBreak boosts portfolio in Barcelona

IBEROSTAR Hotels & Resorts has opened its 14th hotel on Mallorca, the IBEROSTAR Cala Millor.

Situated on the island’s east coast and suitable for both couples and families, the hotel is located a short distance from the protected natural area of Punta de n’Amer, directly on the seafront offering sea views of the waterfront promenade.

A total of 171 guestrooms are offered either with a terrace or balcony, along with air-conditioning and satellite TV. Guests can also enjoy a wide range of hotel facilities, including a fitness room, a spa with a choice of relaxing treatments and massages, a range of watersports, kids’ clubs (ages four-12) and access to a golf course located a few kilometres away.

The new property is part of the chain’s Premium category, made up of four- and five-star establishments.

SUPERBREAK HAS added three new properties in Barcelona to its portfolio of accommodation on the island, bringing the total now featured to 100.

All properties are fully commissionable to agents and can be booked as accommodation or as part of a flight inclusive package with full ATOL protection.

The new properties include the four-star Sunotel Central, the fourstar Atenea Barcelona

Iberostar Cala Millor

Aparthotel and the threestar Atenea Calabria Apartments.

Prices lead in at £82.50 per person for a two-night stay at the Sunotel Central in September.

A package in September costs from £222 per person including two nights at the Sunotel Central on a roomonly basis and flights from Stansted.

For further information see www.superbreak.com/agents or call 01904-436000.

Siam Park offer from AW FROM NOW until August 31, Attraction world customers can benefit from 15% discount on Siam Park tickets in Tenerife.

Prices lead in at £85 per person (was £99) to include park entry, fast pass access to all attractions (excluding Tower of Power), All-You-Can-Eat all day in restaurants within the park (including free beer, water and soft drinks), a free locker and free transport to and from the park to the main resorts of Los Cristianos, Playa de las Americas and Costa Adeje.

PRESTIGE H O L I D A Y S

SOUTHERN SPAIN, LA MANGA, MALLORCA & CANARY ISLANDS. Prestige Holidays offer smaller boutique hotels to larger resort hotels, family friendly, All-Inclusive, spa and golf hotels to family run apartments in Mallorca.

Many offers including children stay free, discounts, free nights, free HB and free Spa treatments. Prices from £449 pp for 7 nights bed and breakfast in Mallorca this summer.

Late bookings still available, just call us or go online.

Love to Shop vouchers for each booking made.

More affordable luxury holidays from your local airport.

01425 480400

.C O.U K

S06 TB0307 2015 Cultural Tours_Layout 1 01/07/2015 11:28 Page 18

s r u o t l a r u t l cu

FUNWAY HOLIDAYS

...is highlighting its eight-day 'Chiapas & Yucatan Discovery' tour in Mexico. It includes visits to Chiapas de Corzo and San Cristobal to explore the Spanish architecture and markets, as well as visits to the Indian communities of San Juan Chamula and Zinacantan, the Agua Azul waterfalls and the Temple of Warriors. Travel is based on a November 9 departure, with prices leading in at £1,999 per person including transfers and flights from Gatwick.

Kirker Holidays boosts 2015/16 programme with new cultural itineraries KIRKER HOLIDAYS has added to its cultural tours programme for 2015/16 with the addition of several new itineraries.

As examples, a seven-night holiday departing on September 4 offers the chance to experience the Beethoven Festival in Bonn, including the opening concert, three orchestral concerts, an evening of sonatas and a piano recital.

Prices start from £2,388 per person including flights from Heathrow, four-

star breakfast accommodation and tickets for five performances.

Alternatively, a seven-night 'Images of Cuba' departs on January 14, 2016 and leads in at £3,186 including flights from Gatwick and four- and five-star accommodation. It includes a tour led by a local guide and salsa classes.

The company is also offering three new 'Musical Festivals at Sea', including a 13-night 'Norway's Midnight Sun' departing on June 12, 2016, with prices from £2,210

including visits to the North Cape, Finnmark, Tromso and Trondheim.

An 11-night 'Cruise to Spain, Morocco and Portugal' is also available, with prices from £1,850 based on an October 31 departure, while a seven-night 'Art Cities of Flanders, The Netherlands and Germany' costs from £1,480. Each cruise includes concerts, talks, interviews and drinks parties.

For details call 020-7593 2284 or see www.kirkerholidays.com

Murcia promotes range of music, theatre & festival activities for summer THE REGION OF MURCIA is highlighting cultural activities available throughout the summer, with prices starting from 133 euros per person.

Music, theatre and traditional Spanish flamenco will all be available this month and next, with the Cante de las Minas (one of the most important flamenco events) taking place from August 5-15. Lo Ferro is also hosting a flamenco event from July 17-26, and San Javier is home to the Festival de Teatro, Musica y Danza between August 1-21 to celebrate music, drama, dance and comedy.

During July, the San Javier International Jazz Festival

(July 3-31) is being held, as well as La Mar de Musicas (July 17-25), which includes a range of sounds, from futuristic jazz to techno.

The region also offers a wealth of Roman, Phoenician and Moorish history including an ancient Roman theatre and forum district.

Prices to stay at the Hotel Lodomar Spa & Talasoterapia in nearby San Pedro del Pinatar, a four-star hotel, start from 133 euros per person and include entry to a number of attractions.

For details see www.murciaturistica.es/en

Three-night Edinburgh foody tour from £535 with Rabbie’s Small Group Tours RABBIE'S SMALL Group Tours has launched a new three-night 'Foodies Tour', departing September 28 from Edinburgh.

The tour, which has been launched in celebration of Scotland's Year of Food and Drink 2015, departs from Edinburgh and offers the chance to visit the specialist breeders of

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July 3 2015

Highland Cattle in Stirling and Callander, Scotland's seafood capital Oban and Cairngorm Brewing Company.

Guests are also offered meals at the renowned Loch Fyne and House of Bruar.

Prices lead in at £535 per person including three nights’

accommodation, transport, the services of a guide, two themed dinners and two lunches en route.

Entrance to Mid Torrie Farm, Arduaine Garden and a tour and tasting and Cairngorm Brewery are also included.

For further information see www.rabbies.com

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S06 TB0307 2015 Cultural Tours_Layout 1 01/07/2015 11:28 Page 19

culturaltours New walking tours from Anatolian Sky Holidays’ ‘Winter Collection’ brochure ANATOLIAN SKY Holidays is highlighting walking holidays from its new 'Winter Collection' brochure, available between November and April.

In North Cyprus, a seven-night itinerary is available from £639, based on a group of eight. The trip involves five guided walks around Bellapais, with routes leading to St Macgar Monastery, the castle at St Hilarion and the ruins of Buffavento Castle, as well as the opportunity to discover more than a thousand species of local plant life.

Alternatively, a seven-night walking holiday is available in Turkey and includes five guided walks to the

Saint Hilarion Castle

valleys and hidden churches surrounding Goreme, Cavusin Village and the summit of Bozda Mountain. Prices lead in at £729 per person based on a group of six, and

both itineraries include breakfast accommodation, flights and transfers.

For details call 0844-273 3585 or see www.anatolianskyholidays.co.uk

Niquesa’s Rome property highlights new options for guests NIQUESA HOTELS AND RESIDENCES is promoting a range of cultural experiences offered by its five-star hotel, Hotel D'Inghilterra in Rome.

Activities include a tour of the Borghese Gallery, home to one of Rome's finest art collections; an

underground tour of the ancient city; and a guided tour of the works of famed Baroque artist Caravaggio, each costing 60 euros per hour, for up to five people.

From 380 euros per couple, a tour of Campo Marzio is available for the chance to sample local food and wine, and the

‘Secrets of the Old South’ from Trafalgar TRAFALGAR IS promoting its eight-day tour in the US, 'Secrets of the Old South', which offers a range of activities, such as hearing the trials and talks of local Civil War history, visiting the Baptist Church in Savannah with a local expert and experiencing local cuisine with a Be My Guest dinner.

Highlights include city tours of Savannah, Hilton Head, Beaufort and Charleston, and prices lead in at £2,550 per person for seven nights’ breakfast accommodation, VIP door-to-door airport transfers and the services of a travel director throughout.

Details at www.trafalgar.com

Palace Music Concert provides the opportunity to hear Renaissance and Baroque music. Tours of the Vatican City are also being promoted, allowing guests to visit the Sistine Chapel and Saint Peter's Basilica, for 60 euros per hour, or 580 euros for the VIP tour.

India holiday

The Golden Triangle

Guided small group cultural trip

8 days from £1,299 Ref: GTI, inc. standard hotel accommodation, flights and free travel insurance* Experience India’s Golden Triangle: from the capital Delhi to the city of Agra and Jaipur in the Rajasthani Desert.

Visit: New and Old Delhi Taj Mahal at sunset Fatehpur Sikri Amber Fort (Jaipur)

TABER HOLIDAYS is promoting its 'Art and Nature Highlights of Denmark' tour. The ten-night itinerary leads in at £1,450 per person including flights from Gatwick, accommodation and visits to Skagen, Arhus and Silkeborg. Departures are on Thursdays from May 3 to September 17.

For details call 01274-875199 or see www.taberhols.co.uk

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visit explore.co.uk or call 0843 775 5771

ATOL 2595 AITO 5048

request brochures tradegate.co.uk *Regional departures available. Travel insurance t’s and c’s apply – ask for details

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s d n a l s i c i f i c pa Dolphin Island, Fiji

FIJI’S DOLPHIN ISLAND OFFERS RANGE OF DEDICATED PACKAGES LOCATED 20 minutes from the tip of Viti Levu, Relais & Chateaux property Dolphin Island in Fiji is currently offering a number of packages for guests to highlight what the 14-acre private island has to offer.

The resort is made up of three pavilions, a colonialstyle lounge and cool rooms open to nature, with a thatched pavilion on a promontory at the end of the island offering a hideaway for nights under the stars. Guests can snorkel, tank dive, sail, kayak, swim and fish with knowledgeable operators with watersports involving waterskiing, wakeboarding, windsurfing, kitesurfing and jetskiing also readily available. Cultural visits to nearby villages, sightseeing and tours to areas of historical interest can be arranged, as can massages and facials.

Packages at the resort include ‘Pacific Time’, ‘Family time’ and ’Romance Package’ and rates start from 3,190 Fijan Dollars (approximately £969).

For further details visit www.relaischateaux.com

A&K promotes break in Cook Islands Abercrombie & Kent’s Pacific Resort Aitutaki in the Cook Islands offers 27 beachfront suites and bungalows decorated in a romantic colonial style. A seven-night stay at the boutique island resort costs from £3,155 per person, including international flights, return flights from Rarotonga, transfers from Aitutaki airport and daily tropical breakfast in a Premium Beachfront Bungalow.

For bookings call 01242-855349 or visit www.abercrombiekent.co.uk

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July 3 2015

Half price savings on seven-night Tahiti break from Turquoise Holidays TURQUOISE HOLIDAYS is offering a 50% saving on a sevennight holiday at Le Taha’a Island Resort & Spa. Prices lead in at £3,485 per person, including accommodation in a sunset overwater suite, breakfast, boat transfers from Raiatea Airport, inter-island flights and international flights via Los Angeles. The offer is based on travel from October through to March 2016.

For more information visit www.turquoiseholidays.co.uk

Tahiti deals from All Ways TailorMade ALL WAYS TailorMade is offering a seven-night holiday at Tahiti’s eco-friendly The Brando from £8,385 per person.

The price includes accommodation in a one-bedroom villa, flights from Heathrow with Air New Zealand, interisland flights with Air Tahiti and all transfers, for travel until March 31, 2016.

The operator is also featuring a seven-night holiday at Vahine Island Resort from £3,068 per person. A remote Polynesian hideaway with just nine beachfront and overwater bungalows hidden among coconut trees, the deal includes seven nights in a beach bungalow, Economy flights from Heathrow on Air New Zealand, inter-island flights with Air Tahiti and all transfers, for travel until March 31, 2016.

For bookings visit www.awtm.co.uk or call 0162-852 6585.

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pacificislands

Solomon Islands announces new tourism development strategy AS PART of the Solomon Islands’ government drive to see tourism become a major economic contributor within the next five years, Prime Minister, Manasseh Sogavare, has announced the launch of a National Tourism Development Strategy (SINTDS).

The strategy sets out the government’s commitment to developing the country into a unique tourist destination within a five-year time frame, with key aspects to increase tourism sector development and encourage international visitor

growth. It proposes a 9% growth within the next five years.

The Prime Minister urged caution, however, that even with this modest growth rate the achievement of meeting targets set out in the SINTDS will require sustained commitment to the strategy, backed by strong leadership, increased investment and additional government and donor resourcing.

Josefa Tuamoto, CEO for the Solomon Islands Visitors Bureau, said: “For the first time the Solomon Islands government is serious about tourism and has committed major resources

into the sector. Given the Solomon Islands’ traditional sources of wealth are now well into ‘sunset’ mode, tourism growth has become a priority area for the economic and social wellbeing of the country.

“For us as industry players, having the government make this major commitment to tourism tells us where we want to go. SINTDS has been extremely well researched with key drivers identified and it is now time for the Solomon Islands to take the next step and make those aspirations a reality.”

12-day ‘Best of Hawaii’ option from Tauck offers four-island package from £3,990 TAUCK IS offering a 12-day, four-island package that takes in the Hawaiian islands of Oahu, Maui, Kauai and Hawaii, incorporating natural and historical sights with exclusive cultural experiences.

With transfers included, guests stay at a series of oceanfront resorts including The Royal Hawaiian and can experience sites such as the USS Arizona Memorial in Pearl Harbour, take a private catamaran sail at sunset on the Big Island and attend a private evening with cocktails and

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dinner at Iolani Palace in Honolulu.

Other highlights include a visit to Mount Haleakala, gourmet cooking at a restaurant on Maui, an ecological exploration on Kauai, an outrigger ride along Waikiki Beach, a visit to a Kona coffee farm and a ‘talk-story’ from a beach boy on Oahu, with plenty of opportunities to relax in between.

Prices for 2016 holidays start from £3,990 per person.

For further details visit www.tauck.co.uk

USS Arizona Memorial, Pearl Harbour

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pacificislands We asked our staff the following question this week: What was the last thing you did for the environment?

Publisher: Jeanette Ratcliffe jeanette.ratcliffe@travelbulletin.co.uk Put out my recycling bin this morning.

Editor: Lauretta Wright lauretta.wright@travelbulletin.co.uk Weekly recycling of paper and plastic/glass waste and recently made a large contribution to the local charity shop.

Editorial Assistant: Adam Potter adam.potter@travelbulletin.co.uk Invested in a reusable coffee cup - with my caffeine habit I plan to save a small forest in paper cups.

Contributing Editor: Paul Scudamore post@travelbulletin.co.uk Recycled Guinness.

Sales Director: Simon Eddolls simon.eddolls@travelbulletin.co.uk Weekly recycling.

Advertisement Manager: Tim Podger tim.podger@travelbulletin.co.uk Driving less and using the train more.

Account Manager: Bill Coad bill.coad@travelbulletin.co.uk Put my bus ticket in the used ticket box on the bus!

Account Manager: Matt Gill matt.gill@travelbulletin.co.uk Sales Executive: Matthew Weinreb matthew.weinreb@travelbulletin.co.uk Donated some old clothes to some friends

Sales Executive: Kathryn Frost kathryn.frost@travelbulletin.co.uk Donated some of my clothes to charity

Marketing Assistant: Gemma Reeve gemma.reeve@travelbulletin.co.uk Put out my recycling bin this morning.

Senior Designer: Lee Telot lee.telot@travelbulletin.co.uk Assistant Designer: Tom Davies thomas.davies@alaincharles.com Production: Charlie Burns charlie.burns@alaincharles.com Work experience: Evie Richards I recycle food waste on a weekly basis.

Travel Bulletin is published by Alain Charles Publishing (Travel) Ltd University House, 11-13 Lower Grosvenor Place, London, SW1W 0EX, Tel: 020-7834 6661 Printed by: Buxton Press Subscriptions are £125 p.a. £195 overseas ISSN: 0956-2419

JOSEFA ‘JO’ TUAMOTO, CEO for the Solomon Islands Visitors Bureau (SIVB), has been appointed deputy chair of the South Pacific Tourism Organisation. Tuamoto (second from left) is pictured at the recent South Pacific Tourism Exchange in Melbourne with, from the left (standing): Wilson Ne’e and Richard Hankin from SIVB; Victor Sharan from Solomon Airlines; and (seated) Freda Unusi, SIVB; Karen Foimua, Travel Solomon; and Stella Lucas, SIVB.

Tahiti highlights calendar of events TAHITI IS preparing to host the annual Billabong Pro Surfing Competition where 40 pro-surfers, including Kelly Slater and reigning champion Gabriel Medina, will participate in the competition. The event takes place at Tahiti’s Teahupoo reef from August 14-25 and this year’s spectators can expect another impressive display of surf skills as well as learn how to surf themselves.

Later in the year is Hawaiki Nui Va'a International Canoe Race - a 130km outrigger canoe race staged over three days from November 4-6 and split into three stages. Competitors begin in Huahine and cross the finish line in Bora Bora. The race is an extreme test of physical and mental endurance, but with more than 100 crews coming from all over the world, it is also designed to link the islands and celebrate the beauty of the South Pacific.

Meanwhile, Tahiti Yacht Charter has launched new Iti Iti cruises. Programmes include four-day private cruises shared between the islands of Huahine and Bora Bora, or a 100% Bora Bora itinerary. All meals are included and private scuba diving options can be added.

For bookings or more information email tahiti@tahitiyachtcharter.com or see www.tahiti-tourisme.co.uk

puzzlesolutions Crossword: Across: 1. MINERVA, 4. ALG, 6. NEPAL, 8. IBIZA, 9. OSTEND, 11. JOHN, 14. SAGA, 15. CANADA, 17. SEINE, 18. DELTA, 20. SUE, 21. ANTIGUA. Down: 1. MINIONS, 2. NAP, 3. APIA, 4. ARIZONA, 5. GOA, 7. LINZ, 10. TEGUISE, 12. NIAGARA, 13. VAUD, 16. VERA, 17. SAS, 19. LUG.

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Highlighted Word: MALDIVES Travagrams: (top) Jet2Holidays

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July 3 2015

(bottom) Easter Island

Where Am I?: Sistine chapel

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