Travel Bulletin 7th June 2013

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June 7 2013 | ISSUE NO 1,829 | www.travelbulletin.co.uk

this week

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agent bulletin bonvoyage.co.uk reveals quirkiest cruise complaints

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event bulletin images from our Mediterranean Islands Showcase event in Manchester

Israel New culinary venture from IGTO whets the appetite of potential visitors

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dynamic packaging new survey highlights most affordable insurance policies romania

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operators unveil new packages & tailor-made itineraries

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HEADING TO HANNOVER...bmi regional has launched six new routes that include six times weekly flights from Bristol Airport to Hannover, Hamburg and Milan. Pictured marking the launch of the flights on an inaugural flight to explore Hannover are, from the left: Claire Maklin, bmi regional; Chris Collins, Thornton's Travel; Matt Higginbottom, bmi regional; Nicola Prewett, Ian Allan Travel; Simone Higgins, Norad Travel; Joseph Rajkovic, 2J’s Travel; Shirley Knight, Bristol Airport; and Peter Giles, World Market Travel.

For details visit www.bmiregional.com

Cover Pictures: Main - Tel Aviv, www.thinkisrael.com

Inset - Go Barefoot

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news

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at home with eileen

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agent bulletin

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airline bulletin

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puzzle bulletin

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event bulletin

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personality bulletin

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israel

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dynamic packaging

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romania

a round-up of this week's latest programme additions & announcements find out what homeworker Eileen has been up to lately bonvoyage.co.uk reveals quirkiest complaints from cruise holidaymakers Discover Egypt adds new Manchester flights to Cairo win a £50 M&S voucher by playing Su Doku Travel Bulletin held its Mediterranean Islands Showcase for Manchester agents who would like to see more talented young people in the industry? new culinary venture from IGTO whets the appetite of potential visitors Airport Parking and Hotels highlights most affordable insurance policies operators unveil new packages & tailor-made itineraries

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Cabin crew reveal how to bag a seat in Premium Class A SMARTLY dressed, single guy in his 30s is the passenger most likely to get a free upgrade according to a survey of 700 cabin crew by Skyscanner. The survey found that nearly two-thirds (61%) of cabin crew have given someone a free upgrade and it's single guys that are bagging the best seats.

At the other end of the scale, the flyers voted least likely to get an upgrade are women in their late teens, wearing revealing clothing and travelling as part of a group.

For those who don't fit the bill, crew have outlined how passengers can up their chances of getting that elusive free upgrade.

While a few manners will go far, frequent flyers and solo travellers are odds-on favourite to get bumped up to Premium, when seats become available.

Almost three quarters (72%) of cabin crew said they were more inclined to offer a free upgrade to a passenger who was flying alone.

Other factors that increase the likelihood of escaping Economy are being a frequent flyer and having an injury. Nearly two thirds revealed that a passenger with a broken limb was more likely to get the Premium experience for free.

In a separate poll of passengers, the company found that travellers are so keen to get a Premium seat that three quarters would willingly lie their way to a free upgrade. More than one in ten would pretend to be newlyweds (14%), 6% would feign illness or injury and 7% would ditch their partner and pretend to be travelling solo if it increased their chances of getting upgraded.

New research reveals mobile habits of travelling Brits ACCORDING TO research by AeroMobile, 78% of British travellers are happy to use their mobile phones on holiday, despite concerns about the cost, while almost two thirds of people are worried about the effect roaming abroad will have on their pockets.

The survey of 2,000 UK consumers revealed that most people (62%) use their phones to keep in touch via text message when overseas, with only 13% using them to check social media sites.

Just under a fifth currently use their mobile phones for browsing abroad, with men more likely than women to surf the web whilst away.

A fifth of Brits however admit to leaving their phones at home when they travel abroad, with men more likely to do this (26%) compared to 16% of women.

The survey also found that the older generation are also more likely to lock their phones away when they venture abroad; nearly 30% of over 55s don’t travel with a mobile phone, compared to just 13% of 25-34 year olds.

The company's CEO Kevin Rogers said: “What’s clear from this research is that there is demand, particularly from the younger generation, to be connected whenever, wherever. In the past roaming has been a contentious issue, but we’re now seeing better deals available for consumers who want to use their mobile devices overseas.

“Growth on the AeroMobile network, which provides a roaming service inflight, points to increasing demand from consumers who are happy to roam. We’ve seen a huge appetite for both SMS and mobile internet services at 30,000 feet; so far in 2013 data usage per flight has doubled and we’ve seen a 40% increase in the number of text messages sent per flight."

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newsbulletin Tweets of the Week Who’s saying what on Twitter... @EtihadDeals We've got a variety of economy and business class deals available from the #UAE. View them all here: http://bit.ly/120kGMH @VisitBritain Get set for the brand new Charlie and the Chocolate Factory musical at London's Theatre Royal http://bit.ly/11QpQdc http://ow.ly/i/2dEjp @Monarch A smartphone app that helps you track your flight & locate your car?

It exists! http://bit.ly/MonarchPho neApp @STATravel_UK Stay 4 nights, pay for just 3, on a wide choice of hotels across America! http://sta.travel/125GBN7

Follow us on Twitter! http://twitter.com/ TravelBulletin

PANDA PLAY...To mark a year of celebration in Macau, the Macau Government Tourist Office (MGTO) hosted a group of nine UK tour operators on a fam trip to see what the destination has to offer.

Pictured at the Macau Giant Panda Pavilion, home to Kai Kai and Xin Xin are, from the left: Christine Liew, Lees Travel; Jas Anand, MGTO UK; Beth Stevenson, Infinity Holidays; and Holly Hyde, Flightcentre Holidays.

Fred. Olsen’s Black Watch celebrates new cruise season from Harwich FRED. OLSEN Cruise Lines welcomed a delegation of local VIPs on a visit to its 804-guest cruise ship, Black Watch, last month, when the ship made its first turnaround call at Harwich, departing on a 14-night ‘European Capitals and Canals’ cruise.

The line's managing director Mike Rodwell said: “We are pleased to be adding Harwich as a regular fixture in our cruise programmes for 2013 and 2014, and we are committed to offering cruise guests in the East of England and Midlands the chance to set sail from right on their doorsteps.”

Black Watch will be offering four cruises from Harwich in spring/summer 2013 – to the Baltic, Norway and Lapland, and a mini-cruise, with durations ranging from three to 17 nights.

In May and June 2014, the line's 929guest Braemar will be making its first call at Harwich with three cruises to Norway, Iberia and a special commemorative ‘DDay Anniversary’ sailing, visiting Bruges (from Zeebrugge, Belgium), Portsmouth

(UK), Cherbourg (France), Le Havre (France, for an overnight stay), and Dunkirk (France).

The last of the company's four cruises from Harwich this year, W1308, is a threenight mini-cruise in aid of The Sir Bobby Robson Foundation. The cruise departs from Harwich, which is the closest port to Sir Bobby Robson’s team, Ipswich Town Football Club, on June 15, and visits Amsterdam for an overnight stay, and then returns to Newcastle – Sir Bobby’s home town – on June 18.

The line is also supporting Sir Bobby’s cancer charity, The Sir Bobby Robson Foundation, and will be hosting dedicated fundraising activities on Black Watch throughout the cruise. Guests will get to meet football stars George Burley, John Wark, Allan Hunter and Bryan Hamilton, while Lady Elsie Robson has been confirmed as the ‘Guest of Honour’.

For further information visit www.fredolsencruises.com and www.harwich.co.uk or call 0800-035 5150.

Early summer tours in Europe from Great Rail Journeys and Treyn CLIENTS LOOKING to explore some of the gems of Europe with a late spring/early summer trip by train, are being offered prices from £445 per person from Great Rail Journeys and sister brand, Treyn.

Each tour has been hand-picked and is guided by experienced tour leaders. As examples, a six-day The Charming Dordogne option, which is based in Le Bugue in the Dordogne, explores the region with prices from £648 per person based on two sharing. It includes rail travel from St Pancras; five nights' hotel accommodation with breakfast and four-course dinner with wine; excursions to La Roque-Gageac, Gouffre de Proumeyssac and Sarlat; a visit to Rocamadour; and a trip on the Truffadou Steam Train. The price is based on departures on July 10, 22 and 31.

A five-day Alluring Rhine Valley option explores the region by train, boat and rack railway. Highlights include sampling local wines on a cruise beneath ancient vineyards and hilltop castles and a visit to the "Dragon's Cliff", topped by its imposing ruined castle, on Germany's oldest cog railway. Prices lead in at £445

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per person including rail travel; four nights' hotel accommodation with breakfast and dinner; an excursion to Königswinter; a journey on the Drachfelsbahn; an excursion to Boppard; and a panoramic boat trip. The price is based on June 28, July 2 and 29 departures and includes a tour manager.

Meanwhile, a Luxembourg, Verdun & The Moselle option explores Luxembourg's heritage and cruises through the Moselle Valley. Guests will also visit nearby Trier and the Battlefields of Verdun.

Prices start from £575 per person including rail travel from St Pancras; five nights' hotel accommodation with breakfast and three dinners; a guided walking tour of Luxembourg; a visit to Verdun battlefields, including a guided tour of Fort Douaumont, Douaumont Ossuary and the Bayonet Trench; entrance to the Verdun Memorial Museum; an excursion by rail to Trier; a visit to Echternach, Vianden and its castle; and a visit to Wellenstein including wine-tasting, plus all transfers. The price is based on a July 4 departure.

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newsbulletin The Angry Birds have hatched at Yorkshire’s Lightwater Valley ANGRY BIRDS Activity Park has opened to the public at Yorkshire's Lightwater Valley.

Covering more than 30,000sq.ft, the park offers indoor and outdoor areas and is now open year-round.

Allan Leech, chief executive of Lightwater Valley Attractions, said, “In 2012 Angry Birds was the most popular paid-for app on Apple’s app store, so when we were looking at a ÂŁ1million investment in creating a new attraction here at the park it was clearly a popular choice. We are already seeing an increase in advanced ticket sales and anticipate making a ÂŁ2.5million impact to the region’s economy over the next five years.â€?

Rob Hetherington, national development manager for Angry Birds at Lappset UK, who designed and manufactured the activity equipment said: “It has been very exciting to build the largest Angry Birds Activity Park in the country. The parks are a healthy way for the whole family – from toddlers to grandparents – to enjoy the hugely popular Angry Birds theme. Lappset is very keen to encourage people to get outdoors and get moving and if you can enjoy yourself while doing so, then all the better.�

Seven-night AI halal holidays from ÂŁ355 from Crescent Tours CRESCENT TOURS is offering all-inclusive halal holidays in Turkey from ÂŁ355 per person for seven nights on all-inclusive.

The price is based on two adults sharing a standard room and includes a stay at the five-star Bera Beach Resort Hotel in Alanya and transfers, based on travel in October for bookings made by June 15.

The company offers 5% commission to agents.

To register or for more information call 01215-231224, email accounts@crescenttours.com or see www.crescenttours.com

Mailbox Mailings with Travel Bulletin this week include: â—? Crusader Holidays largest ever selection of

Christmas Markets in Britain and Europe by coach with FREE local departures now available.

Call 01255 425453 or visit www.crusader-holidays.co.uk For further details and special offers please read the mail shots that accompany this issue

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Newsbites ● ●

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Kenya Airways and the Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) have entered into a one-year joint marketing programme aimed at boosting tourist arrivals into the country.

The Croatian National Tourist Board has released a new promotional video entitled ‘Croatia – the new Tourism Star of the European Union’ in the run up to the country’s admission to the EU in July.

Occidental Hotels & Resorts has concluded its long-term debt refinancing process through an agreement with ten Spanish and international entities which have endorsed the company’s 2012-2016 Business Plan. The process, which is subject to completion of the final terms, will allow the company to refinance its debt, and initiate a significant amount in investments with an intensive renovation and improvement plan of its hotels and resorts within the chain. Upon the successful completion of the refinance process, the company will focus the development of its hotel business activities over the coming years in seven countries of the Caribbean and Central America where it manages 17 hotels, 12 of which are owned by the chain and five are under management agreements.

London & Partners, the official promotional agency for the capital, has unveiled a new dedicated strategy to work with the domestic and international travel trade. The industry relations team will be attending both international and domestic events to meet the travel trade in order to build and grow relations with the travel trade as well as working with key stakeholders such as ETOA and VisitBritain. The company has also improved functionality on its travel trade website, has created a varied toolkit including itinerary suggestions, hints and tips and is also keeping the industry informed with monthly newsletters.

For details see www.londonandpartners.com/travel-trade On The Beach has launched a new holiday cost comparison tool to help holidaymakers plan ahead and factor in those extra costs many families face whilst abroad. The tool compares ten holiday essentials including the cost of nappies, sun cream and food across 30 popular short-mid haul destinations. Along with helping to plan budgets, the tool helps holidaymakers choose a destination that best suits their budget and holiday requirements.

See www.onthebeach.co.uk/cost-comparison

Jet2holidays adds Slovenia to portfolio with prices from £399 IN ADDITION to launching holidays to the sunshine island of Fuerteventura, Jet2holidays is now offering Slovenia in its summer 2014 brochures, with package breaks to both destinations starting from £399 per person.

The brochures also offer thousands of free child places at a range of family-friendly hotels, as well as a deposit of £60 per person.

The four dedicated brochures – All-Inclusive, Families, Beach and Indulgent Escapes – are specially tailored to appeal to specific holiday types. New for next year is a selection of more than 200 new hotels and ten new resorts including Tenerife’s tranquil Puerto de Santiago, Ibiza’s tropical San Miguel and Corfu’s cosmopolitan beach resort of Kontokali.

The company's general manager Alan Cross said: “Holidaymakers will not be disappointed with our selection for next year, with new resorts and hotels to suit all holiday styles and budgets. From lavish five-star Indulgent Escape package breaks, which now come complete with the glamour of Fast Track security and private resort transfers, to family-friendly deals with lots of added extras to make the budget stretch even further, including our popular free child places offer."

For more information call 0800-408 5587 or see www.tradesite.jet2holidays.com. All versions of the brochure are available to view at www.jet2holidays.inbro.net

New mobile site from Condor integrates with social media sites CONDOR FERRIES has launched a new mobile website, designed to work on most handheld devices including Apple and Android compatible smartphones and smaller tablets.

The new site allows users to find out information about the line's destinations in the UK, Jersey, Guernsey and Brittany, alongside live sailing updates and is fully integrated with the company's social media communities, including Facebook and Twitter, giving users the option to engage with the ferry operator and share destination tips with other guests travelling on board.

For details see www.condorferries.com

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newsbulletin MSC Cruises celebrates National Family Week with discounts TO CELEBRATE National Family Week, MSC Cruises is offering families the opportunity to book two cabins with a 50% discount on the second cabin.

The offer is available for bookings that include at least one child, travelling between July 6 and the August 25 on a ten-day cruise on MSC Opera. The ship departs ex UK from Southampton calling at Ijmuiden (for Amsterdam), St Peter Port, Vigo, Lisbon, Bilbao, Le Havre and back to Southampton.

Both free car parking and free coach transfers apply to departures.

MSC Opera accommodates a maximum of 1,712 passengers in a choice of cabins with and without balconies. It also features four restaurants; eight bars and lounges; wellness facilities including two swimming pools; a theatre; several play areas for children; and a kids club.

To book or for more information visit www.msccruises.co.uk or call 0844-561 1955.

Summer openings from Thomson & First Choice THOMSON AND First Choice have introduced a new line-up of properties opening for the first time this season. New for the summer period, Thomson will be welcoming guests into five new exclusive Couples hotels in addition to a luxury new Sensatori in Turkey, two new holiday villages and two new SplashWorld resorts.

The operator is opening its doors to five new contemporary and exclusive adults-only Couples properties this summer. They include the Riu Palace Macao in the Dominican Republic, the Park Plaza Medulin in Croatia and the Atlantic Kalliston in Crete.

A seven-night break to the Atlantica Kalliston Resort & Spa in Crete on a half-board basis leads in at £549 per person, based on two sharing, including flights from Gatwick.

A new opening in the Sensatori range for summer is the newly built Sensatori Turkey. The beachfront resort features five swimming pools including adults only and family options, swim up rooms and a range of dining options. A seven-night all-inclusive stay leads in at £1,017 per adult, £410 for the first child and from £515 for the second. The price is based on a family of four sharing and includes flights from Manchester.

EVA Air offers special fares to Bangkok SPECIAL OFFER fares to Bangkok have been issued by EVA Air, which operates daily from Heathrow to Bangkok and then onward to its international hub at Taipei.

The carrier is currently offering Economy Class fares from £605 return, including taxes, for travel until July 10 and for travel from August 21 to December 8. Tickets must be purchased by June 30.

Special fares are also available in other classes, starting at £940 return for Elite (Premium Economy) and £2,080 in Business Class.

For more information visit www.evaair.com

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newsbulletin Cox & Kings offers savings on selected cruises

e m o h At en...

e l i E with

ileen orker E w e m o as h th?

What h p to this mon u n e be

M

AY WAS a busy month for me with a steady stream of enquiries and I’m pleased to say that most have resulted in bookings. I’ve even converted a few bookings where I was unable to compete on price. It’s very satisfying to know that clients do not always book on price alone and that many value my personal service.

Recently, I attended a drinks reception on the walkway of Tower Bridge hosted by Hurtigruten and Visit Norway. This year Hurtigruten is celebrating 120 years of travel along the Norwegian coastline where they’ve provided vital links between coastal communities, delivering post, local passengers and freight and in more recent times, holidaymakers. This event was one of the many celebrations taking place this year. It was an informal evening during which there was a short introduction by astronomy expert and broadcaster Dr John Mason who told us all about the Northern Lights. It was an enjoyable and informative evening and the choice of venue provided impressive views of the Thames and London’s skyline at night.

At the beginning of May I spent a few days in Bristol over the Bank Holiday weekend. My daughter is currently at university there so as I’d never been there before I thought it would be a great opportunity to visit her and see the city at the same time. I stayed at the Bristol Hotel which is situated in a great central location on the quayside of the Floating Harbour and close to the Old City. There were lots of bars and restaurants in the area near the hotel and it was only a short walk to a number of well-known tourist attractions including Bristol cathedral and the famous SS Great Britain.

The hotel was very good and although my room was small it was very comfortable and well appointed. There is lots to see in Bristol and it has something to appeal to all ages. Families will enjoy the Blue Aquarium and also “@Bristol”, one of the largest and most exciting inter-active science centres in the UK, with more than 300 hands-on exhibits, live shows and a Planetarium. They’ll also enjoy a visit to the SS Great Britain where they can experience the sights, sounds and smells of life on board for Victorian passengers and crew. I’m sure they’ll be as impressed and amazed as I was with their visit.

The world famous Clifton Suspension Bridge with its spectacular setting on the cliffs of the Avon Gorge have made it the symbol of Bristol and, together with Clifton Village with its beautiful Georgian architecture, up market boutiques and restaurants, is also somewhere not to be missed. Bristol is a great choice for a UK city break.

COX & Kings is offering savings of up to £800 per person on selected cruises to Tahiti, the Galapagos or the Nile.

An eight-day Santa Cruz Galapagos cruise offers savings of up to £800 per person, with prices leading in at £2,795 including flights with Iberia, transfers, two nights' breakfast stay in Quito, a private city tour and four nights’ full board on MV Santa Cruz, with daily excursions accompanied by a naturalist guide.

Guests can observe giant tortoises and a number of indigenous bird species and swim with sea lions, penguins and sea turtle. The itinerary can be taken on its own or combined with other destinations in Ecuador or Peru.

The offer is based on two adults travelling together on a twin share basis and is valid for all new bookings made before June 30 on selected departures before October 5.

Also being offered is a 12-day Oberoi Zahra Nile Cruise, with savings of £600 per person. The 11-night itinerary now costs from £3,002 per person including flights with BA, transfers, excursions, four nights' breakfast stay in Cairo and seven nights' full board Nile cruise. The holiday offers extra visits in Cairo, including the Royal Mummy Room at the Egyptian Museum and the Solar Boat Museum in Giza. Following three nights at the Oberoi Mena House, guests join the Oberoi Zahra for a leisurely seven-night cruise between Luxor and Aswan, before returning to Cairo for a final night.

The offer is based on two adults travelling together on a twin share basis and is valid for new bookings made before June 30 for weekly departures before October 19.

For details or to book call 020-7873 5000 or see www.coxandkings.co.uk

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WEBSCLUSIVES ●

Agents, time is running out to play Pac-Pal, Jetset’s fun interactive game that will maximise your package-selling potential. A £100 hamper of retro goodies is on offer for the fastest finisher. Make sure you go to www.travelbulletin.co.uk/pacpal on your coffee break today. Competition closes on Monday 10th June.

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Win a fantastic Fam Trip to South Africa, including visits to Cape Town and Durban by entering the ‘Watch & Win’ competition. Go to www.travelbulletin.co.uk/southafrica

All this and more at:

by EILEEN SAUNDERS of Travel Counsellors To respond to any of Eileen’s comments email jill.sayles@travelbulletin.co.uk

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www.travelbulletin.co.uk The home of the web savvy travel agent www.travelbulletin.co.uk

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agentbulletin Booking incentives ●

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SKI FRANCE has launched its winter 2013/14 brochure prices and agents are being incentivised to sign up and start making early bookings with the company to win a free holiday. The company is offering a selection of ‘early bird’ offers such as 'buy one get one free' lift passes, which are available on a first come first served basis, for selected departure dates throughout December, January and February, including February halfterm. Agents are also being offered an early booking incentive of £25 per booking for all holidays confirmed before June 30. All new trade partners will be offered the opportunity to earn discounts of up to 100% towards a free ski holiday for their agency. Agents can earn discounts as follows: 15 bookings – 20% discount; 25 bookings – 50% discount; 35 bookings – 75% discount; and 45 bookings – 100% discount.

WITH THE recent launch of VisitEngland’s Great Adventures Campaign with Wallace and Gromit, Hoseasons has launched a 'Best Pet Photo' competition to coincide with its Pets Go Free campaign. Agents should email or post a photograph of themselves with their pet to be in with the chance of winning one of five 'Great British Afternoon Tea' Cool Bags from the

operator. If agents don’t have a pet, they are free to improvise. The competition closes on June 24.

Agents can post their entry to: Hoseasons 'Pet Photo' competition, Agency Sales, Raglan Road, Lowestoft, Suffolk, NR32 2LW or email agency.sales@hoseasons.co.uk (with Pet Photo in the subject box). Agents must include their name, ABTA number and email address on the back of the photograph or on the email.

For details see www.hoseasons.co.uk/pdfs/petphoto.pdf or for more details visit www.tipto.co.uk ●

AGENTS WHO sell Holiday Extras' products are in with a chance of scooping prizes each quarter – including tickets to the 2014 Brits – as part of the company's 30th anniversary incentive programme. To bag top prizes in the 2013 giveaway, agents need to increase their branch's year-on-year airport parking, hotel and lounge sales revenue by 15% and winners will receive tickets to Ascot, West End shows and X-Factor tours. Agents who increase their team's year-on-year sales revenue by 10% can win £250 in vouchers for a team night out, and those who maximise bookings revenue by 5% will receive hampers.

Funniest cruising complaints...

WWW.BONVOYAGE.CO.UK HAS revealed some of the quirkiest complaints it has received from cruise holidaymakers via the site over the last year. Examples include a lady who was on a Mediterranean cruise complained that the sea was too loud, and claimed it had prevented her from having a decent night’s sleep during her holiday. A couple on a Mediterranean cruise complained about their captain being “rude”, and failing to comply with their plans. Apparently, the couple had left a note for the Captain in the morning to let him know they would be returning on-board two hours later than the planned departure time due to having “too much to do in-port”, but the Captain departed on time without waiting for them. The couple then had to catch the ship at another port the day after, and wanted compensation for their accrued travel costs. A woman on a ‘Celebrity Cruises’ ship asked for a full refund in June last year, simply because she didn’t see any celebrities on board. According to her comments, the company was guilty of “false advertising” due to the lack of actual celebrities on the ship.

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ALTHAMS' ANTICS...All 32 Althams Travel shops were incentiv ised by Superbreak recently to grow their overseas bookings for the chance to win a £100 Superbreak voucher or goodie bags full of snacks. Olive Moses (left), travel consultant at Althams Travel Bury was the lucky winner and is pictured with Laura Dawson from Superbreak. Three other branches in Bury, Bolton and Otley received goodie bags.

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airlinebulletin Darwin Airline confirms new international routes in partnership with Alitalia DARWIN AIRLINE has unveiled new scheduled services linking Amsterdam, Paris, Milan and Geneva with Cambridge Airport.

The new services will be operated in code-share partnership with SkyTeam member Alitalia. Flights to Amsterdam, Paris Charles De Gaulle, Milan Malpensa and Geneva will enable travellers from Cambridge and the East England region to reach hundreds of destinations worldwide with connections to the global networks of SkyTeam partners Alitalia and Air France-KLM. From September 2, the airline will

offer a total of 50 flights a week to and from Cambridge. This will include a planned timetable of 24 weekly flights to and from Amsterdam; 12 weekly flights to and from Paris CDG (East Anglia’s only air service to the French capital); eight weekly flights to and from Milan Malpensa, and six weekly services to and from the carrier's main hub at Geneva.

The carrier's CEO Maurizio Merlo said: “As we expand within Europe, the UK is a key market for us to further establish and we are delighted to open our new base in the heart of East England. Cambridge is at the

forefront of several business sectors and spearheading the UK’s economic growth – it is thriving and vibrant, one of the UK’s most valuable and affluent markets. The team here at Cambridge Airport and many of the city’s stakeholders have inspired us to invest and connect the region to Europe and beyond.”

All routes will be operated by the airline’s 50-seat SAAB 2000 regional aircraft and are available to book from £119 one-way and £159 return.

For more information visit www.cambridgeairport.com or to book visit www.darwinairline.com

Discover Egypt launches new five times weekly Manchester service to Cairo TRAVELLERS IN the north of England and Scotland can now take advantage of new Egyptair flights from Manchester to Cairo departing five days a week and offered

by Discover Egypt.

The operator's director Philip Breckner said: “The new flight operates on Saturday, Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday with a convenient departure time of 14:30 and return landing of 13:30, which allows for same day rail and road connections for holidaymakers all over the north of England and Scotland. We are certain that agents in the north will find this a great new way to promote the amazing holiday experiences Egypt offers to travellers looking for sun, sea as well as culture and amazing sights.”

The company offers a range of packages to Egypt including Nile cruises, city stays and Red Sea beach

holidays that can all be combined with a stay in Cairo. For example, it is currently offering a seven-night twin-centre package to Cairo and Sharm el Sheikh from £899 which includes flights from Manchester to Cairo, two nights at the Le Mercure Le Sphinx in Cairo and five nights at the Hilton Sharm Dreams in Sharm el Sheikh, both on a bedand-breakfast basis, plus transfers.

For clients looking to take a Nile cruise, the operator features a ‘Classic Egypt’ package that includes a night at Mercure Le Sphinx near the pyramids of Giza in Cairo, a seven-night full board Nile cruise on the five-star Viking Princess with ten guided excursions and three nights at Sonesta St George in Luxor. Prices lead in at £1,199 per person including flights, accommodation and transfers.

For information or to book call 0844-880 0461 or visit www.discoveregypt.co.uk

InBrief ● HAHN AIR has extended the opening hours of its service desk,

VUELING HAS launched new winter services from Cardiff Airport which extends its flying programme to a year-round operation following a positive response from Welsh passengers. The additional flights to Malaga and Alicante operate on Tuesdays and Saturdays with fares from €39.99. This summer, the carrier is operating flights to Alicante, Barcelona, Malaga and Palma Majorca from Cardiff.

For details see www.vueling.com or call 0906-754 7541.

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which now offers round-the-clock assistance from Monday to Friday, as well as at weekends. Agents looking to contact the company on Saturday and Sunday can email service@hahnair.com ● BMI REGIONAL has launched six new routes from Birmingham Airport and Bristol Airport to Gothenburg, Lyon, Toulouse, Hannover, Munich and Milan. Fares start from £39 including complimentary food and drink on-board, free 20kg hold baggage allowance and 30-minute check-in. ● THOMSON AIRWAYS has teamed up with Starbucks to introduce Starbucks drinks and snacks on its long-haul flights. The range available includes Starbucks VIA Colombia coffee, Starbucks Gourmet Hot Chocolate and a selection of snacks from Fruit & Nut Bars to Caramel Shortbread. The carrier has also redesigned its long-haul in-flight menu. As well as British favourites such as roast beef, international choices like Thai red curry will also be available and desserts will be provided by upper-crust patisserie, Didier’s. ● OMAN AIR has placed an order for three A330-300s, growing its A330 fleet to a total of ten Airbus aircraft. The aircraft will be operated on long-haul routes and can seat close to 300 passengers.

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puzzlebulletin Travagrams

Su Doku Win a £50 M&S voucher in the travelbulletin Su Doku prize puzzle Number: 115

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

Baarama Curz Sluices

A➠

B➠ A Royal Caribbean Cruises subsidiary which owns the Quest and Journey ships

C➠

Baa Bud Hi

D➠ 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: competition@travelbulletin.co.uk Closing date for entries is Thursday, June 13th. Solution and new puzzle will appear next week.

The winner for 21st May is Janice Dymond, Mike Coles Travel in Devon.

May 21 Solution: A=7 B=6 C=9 D=4

Sex and the City 2 was filmed in this Middle Eastern destination

Where Am I?

The 2013 Eurovision contest was held in this city.

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

Number: 115

Across 1. Florida holidays specialist, part of TUI (7) 4. Sport accessory, sounds like a beverage (3) 6. Arab sail boat (4) 7. City in the shadow of Mt Vesuvius (6) 10. Nassau airport code (3) 11. Domestic airline of Israel (5) 14. Niamey is the capital (5) 15. European carrier (3) 17. Holiday afloat (6) 20. The cities of Cleveland and Buffalo are on this lake (4) 21. One of the Cinque Ports, (3) 22. Caribbean all inclusive resorts operator (7)

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Down 1. Film star son of Will Smith (5) 2. Major tour operator (7) 3. Verona airport code (3) 4. Plan your journey by tube, train or bus with this online service, initially (3) 5. Racecourse hosting the Derby (5) 8. Capital of Turkey (6) 9. India's sacred river (6) 12. Luxury hotel brand, Waldorf ___ (7) 13. Sofitel and Pullman are part of this group (5) 16. TV personality, ___ Morgan (5) 18. Abu Dhabi is the capital (3) 19. East Midlands Airport code (3)

For the solution to the Crossword, Where Am I? and Travagrams, please see page 22 June 7 2013

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eventbulletin TRAVEL BULLETIN held its Mediterranean Islands Showcase event for agents in Manchester last month. The event, which took place at the Midland Hotel, provided training, networking with 11 leading Med Islands suppliers and entertainment for more than 60 agents...

Thank you so much for a great event. It was so well organised and went like clockwork. It was good to meet so many agents in one evening which logistics often prevent us from seeing them on home ground as often as we would like. Well done and looking forward to the next one!"

Sandra Bruce, So Nice/So White/Porto Carras Left TABLE MANNERS... enjoying a tipple before the networking gets underway are, from the left: Louise Hall, Franco Renzulli and Fae Bowman from Bowman Travel Services.

Above: STAND AND DELIVER...getting ready to meet and greet agents are, from the left: Penny Moschidou, Aegean Airlines; Costas Catsellis, Cyprus Tourism Organisation; Sandra Bruce, So Nice/So White/Porto Carras; and Sophia Buttigieg, Thanos Hotels.

"Thank you for a great evening - it's amazing how much information you can gather in such a small amount of time! I've already done an enquiry on the Alexander the Great Hotel this morning. I probably wouldn't have offered this normally, but having learnt about the location and full refurb it has helped gain a sale!"

Lisa Murray, Travel Counsellors

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Above: KEY WINNER... Pictured is Rachael Kalus of Key Travel, who won three nights at the Eagles Palace Hotel & Spa in Halkidiki, with Travel Bulletin's Matthew Gill.

Above: ACCESS ALL AREAS...Cheryl Johnson (left) and Maureen Johnson from Access World Travel get ready to speed network.

Right: BRIDGE-ING THE GAP...

Mandy Kalliontzi (left) from Aldemar Hotels & Spa talks through the hotel group's portfolio with Judith Stopford (centre) and Janette Ashby from Global Travel, Bamber Bridge.

June 7 2013

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eventbulletin Right: CAROL'S COUP...Carol Warburton (right) from Travel Counsellors won a two-night stay at the Sani Beach Hotel from Claire Griffiths of Sani Resorts.

“Thank you for a really good and well executed evening. Everything seemed to be well planned and executed, and I have to say there were some really excellent agents who seemed genuinely interested in learning about the products we are selling."

Jayne Scott, Cyplon Holidays Below: IN THE BAG FOR BARBARA... Barbara Holmes (centre) of Moorend Travel won a week’s stay at Villaparade Villa in Mallorca. Pictured presenting her prize is Natalie Crossland and Andrew Warden from Villa Parade.

Above: HE'S SCOTT IT MADE...

The winner of four nights at Aqua Vista Hotels with flights to Santorini was Scott Martin (left) of Thomas Cook in Sale.

Scott is pictured receving his prize from the hotel group's Aaron Moore.

Right: TIME TO FLY... The winner of two return flights to Athens with Aegean Airlines was Annette Stables (left) of Battersby Travel. Pictured presenting Annette with her prize is Lily Alicabiotis of Aegean Airlines.

"We had a wonderful time last night and myself and another member of staff were lucky enough to win a prize too!"

Gemma Milne, Pole Travel

WEBSTER'S WIN... Emily Webster (left) from STA Travel won a place Above: LISA’S LUCK...Lisa Murray (left) from Travel Counsellors won on a Cyplon Holidays' educational and a bottle of wine. She is a four-night stay at one of the Kanika Hotels. Pictured with Lisa is pictured receiving her prize from the operator's Jayne Scott.

Maria Evripides from Kanika Hotels & Resorts.

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personalitybulletin

Scott Davies The general manager of UK sales at Virgin Atlantic says he'd like to see an increase in the number of talented young people in the industry...

Who is your ideal travelling companion?

The correct form here would be to say my wife and kids but I’m going to say Bono. Whatever you think of him you wouldn't run out of things to talk about and I don't think he would be the type to pretend to be asleep!

Where was your last work-related trip?

It was the Virgin Atlantic Little Red inaugural flight to Edinburgh. It was a great event to launch our new domestic services to Edinburgh, Aberdeen and Manchester and the party that night was, in true Virgin Atlantic style, just brilliant.

If you were a celebrity who would you choose to be and why?

Michael Buble looks like pretty good fun. I'm sure he has worked at his talent but he certainly makes it look easy and he travels the world doing something he loves.

What three words would your friends use to describe you?

Loyal, happy and lucky.

What have your travels taught you?

That there are two ways to travel. The better one requires you to work hard and/or work for an airline.

What is the best advice you recall?

Not to take yourself too seriously.

If you could change three things in the industry, what would they be?

Reduce taxes on the passenger, find better solutions for immigration to avoid queuing and increase the number of talented young people coming in to the travel industry.

Who has been the biggest inspiration/influence in your career?

Richard Boardman at Reed & Mackay has been an inspiration. He has played a key

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June 7 2013

"I’m a firstadopter at technology generally. I won’t put up a tent to get in a queue at the Apple Store but I did get an iPad on the day it was launched"

Career path ●

● ● ● ●

● ● ● ●

General Manager - UK Sales: Virgin Atlantic Airways - March 2013 – present Commercial Director - Amadeus June 2010 – March 2013 Head of Trade Sales - British Airways February 2009 – June 2010 Corporate Sales Manager - British Airways - March 2007 – February 2009 Global/Key Account Manager - British Airways - January 2000 – February 2007 Business Development Manager HOYER - 1997 – 2000 Volume Planner/Inventory Manager IBM - 1994 – 1997 Distribution Analyst - ExxonMobil May 1992 – September 1993

role in building a highly successful business, is passionate about the power of people and relationships and he laughs more than anyone else I've ever met.

What's your favourite city and why?

It's said that if you tire of New York, you're tired of life. After more than 30 trips I still love it. And Dublin is always a treat.

If you were not doing this job, what would you be doing?

Something in the sports industry which, like travel, is cool, constantly challenging and I care about a lot.

What is your motto in life?

“Yesterday is gone. Tomorrow has not yet come. We have only today. Let us begin.” From that business guru, Mother Theresa.

If you had a super power what would it be and why?

I have a recurring dream that I have regrown a thick head of hair, which would be nice.

What item do you always take with you when travelling?

A means of video-calling home.

What special skill do you have?

Since acquiring a new family pet, I've developed an impressive ability to rescue kittens from trees. Does that count?

How do you cope with the advances in technology?

I’m a first-adopter generally. I won’t put up a tent to get in a queue at the Apple Store but I did get an iPad on the day it was launched.

What’s your favourite movie of all time?

The Godfather (1, 2 or 3).

What’s your favourite programme on the TV right now?

I think Graham Norton has the best chat show at the moment but, to be honest, 90% of what I watch is sport.

If your life was turned into a movie, which actor would play you?

Tom Cruise, and it would be good if the producer could get a bit creative by adding some chase scenes and martial arts.

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israel New culinary venture from IGTO whets the appetite of potential visitors

by LIZZIE CARROLL

T

HE ISRAEL Government Tourist Office (IGTO) has announced the launch of EatWith, a new venture that connects local hosts around the country with visitors looking for an authentic dining experience.

Visitors can log on to the website and choose to dine in a number of homes around the country offering different experiences, such as traditional Orthodox meals in Jerusalem, Argentinian style asado picnics, gourmet meals created by world-class chefs and Hungarian feasts set against the backdrop of ancient Roman ruins in Caesarea.

Menus are created at a fixed price and the new concept carefully selects hosts based on their personal background, hosting skills, entertaining space and food quality. Hosts can accommodate varying numbers of guests, from two to 20, depending on space and weather conditions.

Prices range from approximately £18 to £54 per person, depending on the price of the ingredients, the host's culinary experience and the style of the event.

A cultural view Meanwhile, the destination reports that it is seeing stable tourism numbers as more visitors seek to experience the country's cultural sights.

According to UK & Ireland director of IGTO, Naama Oryan-Kaplan, unlike many countries, the tourism industry in Israel was not dramatically affected by the recession in 2008. Conversely, the tourist office noted a record number of visitors that year as well as in 2010 and 2011. The market also remained stable last year with approximately 200,000 UK

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visitors, and, with many Jewish high holidays occurring early on in the calendar this year, 2013 visitor numbers have so far been positive for the country.

Oryan-Kaplan said: "Following our recent ‘open skies’ agreement with the EU, we are anticipating a further increase in the number of UK and European tourists.

“About half of tourists are from the ethnic market and people are regularly visiting on an annual basis, with between 10% and 20% of visitors being pilgrims.”

The increasing demand for leisure and cultural tours has also been reflected in the rising number of these types of tours from operators such as Cox & Kings and Martin Randall.

The tourist office’s business development manager, Michelle Roberts, adds that the country is popular for family beach holidays and city breaks in Jerusalem or Tel Aviv. She said: “When people travel to Israel it is almost always on a twin-centre break. A good example is combining Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, which are about an hour's drive apart, and are so different in what they each offer to visitors."

Property push The IGTO reports that a range of new hotels have recently opened in Israel, with many others currently in development, and that a selection of international brands are also set to expand their presence in the country. As examples, Israeli brand Isrotel opened two new hotels last month, including Isrotel Royal Beach Tel Aviv and Isrotel Jerusalem, a spa hotel.

Oryan-Kaplan said: “Two international hotels opening soon are

Waldorf Astoria in Jerusalem this August and the second one in September is the Ritz Carlton in Herzliya.

"The ‘open skies’ agreement will make the country more accessible and has generated fresh interest among airlines in the destination; two of which have interesting proposals that will change the map dramatically.”

Staying ahead of the game Meanwhile, the tourist office is keen to take a lead role in offering training to agents and holds a monthly competition for those who complete its Online Travel Training (OTT) course, with prizes including wine, chocolates and Dead Sea products.

A monthly High Tea for agents is also hosted by the tourist board, during which a presentation on Israel is offered, while in-agency training is also available, either for individuals or groups.

Meanwhile, the IGTO is currently in the process of developing a new campaign which will be unveiled at this year's World Travel Market in October.

For more information and to sign up to the newsletter visit www.thinkisrael.com For details on the new EatWith product see www.eatwith.com/#!/list/israel and for information on training see www.ott.travel/israel/home.aspx ✦

June 7 2013

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israel Barbra Streisand to perform in Tel Aviv BARBRA STREISAND will be performing in Tel Aviv at the Bloomfield Stadium on June 20.

The singer will wrap up her European tour performing in front of 16,000 spectators, who can expect an evening filled with timeless hits, self-deprecating humour and charming banter.

Streisand will be backed by a 60-piece orchestra and accompanied by special guests such as Chris Botti, her son Jason Gould and sister Roslyn Kind, all of whom performed last year on her North American tour Back to Brooklyn.

Longwood Holidays reports boost in pilgrim market bookings

Dome of the Rock, Jerusalem

LONGWOOD HOLIDAYS reports that it has seen a steady increase in volumes of business for Israel over the past six months, with church groups and the pilgrimage market seeing the biggest increase in passenger volumes.

The operator's business development manager Alan Meadows said: “The country has seen a renewed interest especially in the pilgrim market as the Holy Land is now back on a lot of groups' agendas for late 2013 and 2014. To meet this demand we have enhanced our products to suit the clients needs, with the introduction of our New Bible Land Tour.”

The company says that the main volume of its business is via the trade and that more and more agents from areas that are not historically known for receiving a lot of business for Israel are seeing more enquiries coming through the door.

As an example of packages, the company is offering a seven-night Highlights Tour to the Holy Land from £1,135 based on three-star breakfast accommodation and including flights and transfers.

For more information or to book call 0844-375 8000 or see www.longwoodholidays.co.uk/israel

Exodus offers seven-day ‘Highlights of Israel’ tour from £1,599 per person FROM THE metropolis of Tel Aviv on the Levantine coast, via the Mount of Olives, to the shores of Galilee, Exodus' week long 'Highlights of Israel' itinerary offers an insight into the sites of Israel, whilst travelling across diverse landscape.

Guests will spend time in the holy city of Jerusalem, with an opportunity to visit the Israel National Museum which

houses more than half a million artefacts including the Dead Sea scrolls. The week draws to a close with the opportunity to float in the salty waters of the Dead Sea. Prices start from £1,599 per person including flights, transfers, accommodation and most meals, with the first departure on September 28.

To book call 0845-863 9601 or visit www.exodustravels.com

DAN HOTELS is highlighting activities for kids across its portfolio of 14 properties in Israel. The hotel group offers a fun club, ‘Danyland', which is run by experienced, professionally trained leaders offering a selection of activities, in carefully planned and well-equipped areas, giving parents time out for their own leisure. Meanwhile, guests are being encouraged to join the free e-Dan member club. Upon registration, new members are awarded points which accumulate with every visit, and the points can be redeemed for meals and accommodation.

For details see www.danhotels.com

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Dan Hotels Israel Where pleasure is a way of life Gorgeous beaches

Thrilling destinations

Endless sunshine

Discover the ongoing pleasures of a Dan Hotel vacation. Whether it’s the legendary King David in Jerusalem or resort hotels on the Mediterranean and Red Sea, every Dan hotel is a landmark destination that reflects the spirit of its surroundings. And thanks to our wide range of locations, the options are endless for enjoying the beauty, history and diversity of Israel.

For information & reservations, please call your travel agent or ISRAEL: "Call Dan" Reservation Center: 972-3-5202552 Toll Free from: UK, Germany, France, Belgium: 800-326-46835

King David, Jerusalem Dan Tel Aviv Dan Carmel, Haifa Dan Jerusalem Dan Eilat Dan Accadia, Herzliya-on-Sea Dan Caesarea Dan Panorama Tel Aviv Dan Panorama Haifa Dan Panorama Jerusalem Dan Panorama Eilat Dan Boutique, Jerusalem Dan Gardens, Ashkelon Dan Gardens, Haifa

CONNECT WITH US ON

Dan Hotels Israel

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g in g a k c a p ic dynam ATTRACTION WORLD is offering an exclusive deal of 14 days for the price of seven at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. From this month, agents can offer their clients the deal for all 2013 departures. The offer is not available in resort and is only available to book with the operator this month. Prices lead in at £288 for adults and £266 for kids aged three to nine.

Airport Parking and Hotels highlights most affordable insurance policies RECENT RESEARCH from ABTA has revealed that 24% of travellers (and nearly half of 15 to 24-year-olds) holiday without travel insurance. One of the reasons given for doing so was the belief that travel insurance is too expensive, so Airport Parking and Hotels (APH), which offers parking at all major UK airports as well as airport hotels packaged with parking and airport lounges, has put together a comprehensive guide that compares the cost of the major UK travel insurance companies.

The research compares 22 of the most popular travel insurance companies in the UK, including Aviva, Bupa and Virgin, highlighting the difference between the cost for single trips and annual

trips both in Europe and worldwide.

With regards to insurance policies for a single trip to Europe, the most affordable option is the Bronze package available with Columbus for £7.11. This is closely followed by the Standard packages available with Essential Travel and Elephant at £9.06 and £9.07 respectively, and the Red package with Virgin at £9.70.

The most expensive was found to be the Premium Cover package with More Than at £40.70; however this does include baggage and cancellation cover.

For holidaymakers travelling outside of Europe, the Standard package with Essential Travel is the cheapest option at £11.96.

Sainsbury’s Bank’s Basic Travel Insurance package is also affordable at £18.89, when compared to £79.98 for a single trip to the USA with M&S Bank Travel Insurance.

As far as insurance packages for annual trips are concerned, some companies do not charge much more for travellers to insure themselves for a full year, with AA Travel Insurance offering an Essentials Annual package in Europe for £21.66.

STA Travel Insurance was found to offer one of the most expensive options for Europe at £77 for the Under 35 Annual Multi-Trip package, followed by the Black package with Virgin at £76.25.

For further information visit www.aph.com/travelinsuranc e or call 01342-859515.

Affordable's personal touch pays dividends AFFORDABLE CAR Hire reports that its increased association with Advantage Travel Centres has been beneficial, particularly following the visits of its 'Affordable Angels' team to train agency staff about car hire and introduce them to training webinars.

The company says that when it launched its new CARS (Complete Affordable Rental System) integrated booking system last year, staff worked hard to re-educate members on how to work the three-step booking process and to drive home the company's USPs in a busy market.

Since then, the company says that it has gained better relationships with many of Advantage’s members, which has resulted in as much as 70% more car rental business, year-on-year, from individual agents within the group.

The company's senior partnership manager Chris Laxen said: “By working really closely with Advantage Travel Centres we have been able to offer tailored benefits to all its members and have really benefited from face-toface meetings with members across the country.

“Making sure we understand members’ needs is central to how we work with them and I believe that is one of the main reasons why we have seen a growth in business from many of the members.”

Hotelbeds projects more than 50% growth in Middle East destinations for 2013 HOTELBEDS SAYS that it is expecting more than 50% growth in Middle East destinations this year due to the positive growth in demand for this market for inbound and outbound travel.

The company reports that the upsurge in the number of airlines which connect the Middle East to key European

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cities has also played an important role in the growth of the market, and it has been developing its proposition in the Middle East to ensure that it delivers a customised service to the Middle East market client and supplier requirements.

For more information visit www.hotelbeds.com

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dynamicpackaging First Great Western teams up with Europcar to offer car hire across network IN PARTNERSHIP with Europcar, First Great Western (FGW) has launched a meet and greet car hire service, providing reduced cost car and van rental at 20 of its leading network of stations.

The service will see a Europcar representative meet guests at the station with their hire vehicle and agents can offer clients a 10% discount when booked through the FGW website.

Managing director of Europcar UK Group, Ken McCall, said: “We are really excited by this new partnership with First Great Western which truly reflects our mission of ‘moving your way’. By

Discover Greece with Cyplon's Classical Tour CYPLON IS highlighting its Classical Tour of Greece where clients can choose from five-, seven- or eightday tours, valid year-round, plus add a one-day Saronic Island Day Cruise, visiting three islands, to any itinerary.

As an example, a five-day tour leads in at £765 per person for departures from November through to March 31, 2014 and £815 for departures through to October 31. The tour includes flights from Heathrow, Manchester, Glasgow and Gatwick. Other airports are available with KLM via Amsterdam on request.

For further information call 0800-050 9698 or email sales@cyplon.co.uk

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providing our meet and greet staff at 20 First Great Western destinations, we’re able to help business and leisure travellers continue on their journey with the ultimate convenience. The wide range of makes and models available at every location means we will have the vehicle that suits each traveller’s needs and the minimum 10% discount promised for all customers helps with costs too."

To celebrate the new partnership, agents are being given the chance to win a Mercedes for the weekend, or a similar vehicle from Europcar’s Prestige range, as well as two First Class train tickets

from any of FGW's meet and greet stations. The competition is open until June 16.

For details see www.firstgreatwestern.co.uk/europcarco mpetition

AceRooms.com adds excursion booking system ACEROOMS HAS added an excursion booking function to its system, which has been developed following an increase in sales by 100% since 2012.

The trade-only company now offers more than 10,000 excursions at net rates, allowing agents to book hotels, transfers and excursions for their customers on one simple platform.

Excursions range from tickets to a dinner show and a guided city tour to theme park passes.

Agents can either book the products on the company's website or by XML integration.

All agents who register and make their first booking in the next month will receive a free bottle of Champagne. For website registration email info@acerooms.com For details see www.acerooms.com

New add-on to guided tours at the Houses of Parliament THIS SUMMER sees the introduction of afternoon tea as an optional add-on to the ‘Blue Badge’ guided tours of the Houses of Parliament. Tea can be taken in the elegant surroundings of the Pugin Room in the House of Commons; a historic room which offers views over the River Thames.

The House of Commons' chefs have created a range of savouries such as citrus marinated Scottish salmon with cream cheese, lemon curd and chive on a mini bagel, and free range egg mayonnaise with watercress on wholemeal bread. Desserts include sultana scones with strawberry jam and Devonshire clotted cream and Valronha chocolate delice, while vegetarian and gluten-free requirements can also be accommodated.

The afternoon tea option is available as an add-on to selected guided tours on Saturdays until August 24, and on the first four Thursdays and Fridays in August. There are three sittings at 14:00, 15:45 and 17:15, and each sitting has a capacity of 25 people so early booking is advised.

Tour tickets cost £16.50 for adults or £14 for concessions. Special rates for groups of ten or more range between £9 and £13 per person depending on the tour start time. Afternoon tea tickets are an additional £19.95 per person.

To book call 0844-847 1672 or see www.parliament.uk/visiting

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dynamicpackaging Summer highlights from Mallorca Farmhouses MALLORCA FARMHOUSES is highlighting availability during the peak season (June-September) on private properties for couples, families and friends, with prices leading in at £1,056 per week for a stay in Agusti.

The price applies to a three-bedroom cottage located between Pollenca and Puerto Pollenca, which is ideal for families and groups of friends. The property features open-plan living/dining areas, a master bedroom with en suite, private pool with children’s corner steps, covered dining terrace with built-in barbecue and large lawns for children to play. The price offers a saving of £118 for the week, which equates to £176 per person based on six sharing.

In Roqueta, a threebedroom stone-clad holiday villa, located within walking

distance of Pollenca Old Town’s restaurants and tapas bars and a short drive from the beaches at Puerto Pollença, leads in at £1,540 per week, equating to £256 per person, based on six sharing. The property is being highlighted as ideal for families and offers a pool with child-friendly steps, a covered barbecue terrace and spacious gardens.

Meanwhile, in Es Comellar, a week's stay in a five-bedroom villa costs from £2,125 per week, equating to £212 per person based on ten sharing.

The property, which is situated between the village of Calonge and Cala d’Or, offers a tranquil retreat and features a pool, sun loungers and a covered dining terrace with built-in barbecue.

For further information or to book call 0845-800 8080 or visit www.mallorca.co.uk

PICTURED USING the exclusive meet and greet valet parking service at Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA) is PricewaterhouseCooper's Arif Ahmad, who is greeted by LBA's car park operations manager, Zoe Fisher (left) and chief financial officer, Sophie Brown. The new service is available for durations of between five and 15 days and can be pre-booked online up to three days prior to departure. Prices start at £40. For details see www.leedsbradfordairport.co.uk/parking/premier-meet-and-greet

Insight Vacations launches winter programme with new Christmas Markets trip INSIGHT VACATIONS has announced the launch of its 2013/14 winter programme featuring 35 autumn, winter and spring escorted journeys throughout Europe, the Eastern Mediterranean and North Africa.

New to the collection is a nine-day Alpine Christmas Market itinerary which travels through the winter landscapes of Germany, Austria, France and Switzerland. With departures commencing in November and running until April 2014, the new programme provides agents with a range of holiday options, taking clients to some of the best destinations in Europe and the

Eastern Mediterranean such as Italy, Spain, Portugal, The Alps and Central Europe, Morocco, Greece, Egypt, Jordan, Turkey and Israel.

The new programme is showcased in a new A5-sized brochure which brings together 17 of the most popular winter tours.

Paul Melinis, the company's UK director of sales, said: “There are so many great reasons to travel during the November to April period. For starters Europe and the Eastern Mediterranean has noticeably less tourists enabling much better access to attractions that

can be crowded during the summertime.

Plus our prices are up to 23% less expensive than a comparable summer itinerary. Travellers can also take advantage of more competitive airfares during this travel season.”

The operator is giving travellers up to 7.5% off selected 2013/14 winter tours when they book and pay in full by July 10. Clients who have previously travelled with the company receive a further 5% off with the Frequent Traveller Discount.

For more information or to book call 020-7468 4335 or visit www.onestoptouringshop.co.uk

Alpharooms survey reveals extra costs on budget airlines 'make travellers sneaky' HAVE YOU ever tied a French sausage around your middle, worn a curtain as a pashmina or put on all your clothes to save you some money? These are some of the things that alpharooms.com's customers admitted to doing to avoid extra charges from budget airlines.

The company asked its Facebook fans what they do to get around the extra charges imposed by budget airlines. Most of the 450 people questioned revealed that they were not opposed to wearing all their clothes so they don’t have to pay to check-in their bag. Others admitted that they had bought special jackets with extra-large pockets, while some made their children have their own cases to use for their own clothes.

Most people surveyed had taken to packing picnics or buying food in the airport, to avoid any extra costs for food and drink on

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June 7 2013

the plane and some go that one step further. In one case, a lady wrapped her Saucisson (French sausage) around her stomach when it wouldn’t fit in her hand luggage, when returning from France. It looked suspicious and she got a telling off from the French police.

And it's not just luggage charges that people try and dodge according to the company. Some rugby players admitting to buying one extra legroom ticket and sending their biggest member on the plane first so no one will want to sit next to them, therefore securing another two, extra legroom, seats for free.

Priority boarding is another sticky issue. People admitted to walking with a stick, making their children throw a tantrum and others openly flirt with the airport staff to jump to the front.

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romania WITH FREEDOM Treks travellers can explore the Transylvania area of Romania on a Castles of Transylvania holiday itinerary. With a bicycle, the area can be toured either with a guide, or self-guided, over a period of seven nights. A self-guided tour can be arranged for any day by September 22 and costs from £507 based on two sharing. The price includes breakfast accommodation at three- and four-star hotels, route information and luggage transfers between hotels. Meanwhile, the guided tour has departures on July 20 and September 7 with prices starting from £665 based on two sharing. It includes the above, as well as an English speaking tour guide, transfers and a support vehicle.

Bike rental is not included on either itinerary but costs £62 for the week, while flights with Blue Air start at £92 return to Bucharest.

See www.blueair.com and for more information or to book visit www.freedomtreks.co.uk or call 01273-224066.

Hiking & camping option in Carpathian Mountains from Go Barefoot GO BAREFOOT, a new operator that promotes and develops sustainable tourism initiatives, has launched a unique experience with local NGOs in Romania’s Carpathian Mountains, where guests can enjoy hiking and camping in Retezat National Park, with the possibility of encountering bears, bison, wolves, lynx and golden eagles.

Other highlights of the itinerary include exploring castles, experiencing folk music by a camp fire and traditional food in lodges. The journey takes guests through canyon’s, glacier lakes, and historical Saxon villages, and travellers will also have the option to see Dracula’s castle and architecture of Transylvania en route to or from their overnight stay in Bucharest.

The operator has selected accommodation providers who have agreed to commit to sustainable management practices and restored architectural heritage buildings. The seven-day experience costs from £501 per person.

For more information visit www.gobarefoot.org.uk or email info@gobarefoot.org.uk

Danube Express adds private charters THIS SUMMER, Danube Express is adding private charters to its programme, enabling groups (of up to 50 guests) to take over the hotel-on-wheels exclusively.

As an example, a four-day 'Dracula’s Long Weekend' through Transylvania explores the sights linked to Dracula and includes a murder mystery party. Prices lead in at €75,000, including three nights on the Danube Express, based on a party of 38 guests. It also includes all meals; complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks; sightseeing, and the services of a train manager. The company also arranges add-on packages for air and rail travel plus transfers and hotel accommodation.

For further information call 01462-441400 or visit www.danube-express.com

BALKAN HOLIDAYS is promoting its winter ski programme to Romania’s Poiana Brasov resort for 2013/14 and is featuring three hotels in the destination. The resort offers a skating rink, sports fields and a Gondola ski lift with a capacity of up to 2,000 skiers per hour. As well as an Olympic ski track, two 80m ski jumps and 12 downhill slalom runs, there is more than 12km of marked ski runs and 9km of cross country trails, plus floodlit skiing. A seven-night break at the three-star Hotel Poiana based on two sharing costs from £548 per person, based on a March 2014 departure. The price includes half-board accommodation, flights and transfers.

Details at www.balkanholidays.co.uk/agents or call 0845-130 1114.

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romania We asked our staff the following question this week: You're on a long-haul flight - who would you choose to be seated next to?

Publisher: Jeanette Ratcliffe jeanette.ratcliffe@travelbulletin.co.uk Alex Ferguson, I'm sure he'd now have some tales to tell

Editor: Lauretta Wright lauretta.wright@travelbulletin.co.uk

UNTRAVELLED PATHS is offering 30% off a four-night 'Mighty Bear Tracking Experience' for departures until October. Prices lead in at £391 per person and the itinerary includes bear tracking, bear hide, a visit to Libearty Bear Sanctuary in Zarnesti, a visit to Dracula's Castle (Bran Castle) and Peles Castle, breakfast accommodation, transfers and the services of a guide and professional tracker for excursions.

For details email info@untravelledpaths.com or call 0871-662 9521.

Dynamo

Assistant Editor: Jill Sayles jill.sayles@travelbulletin.co.uk

Five-day Transylvanian Backwaters option from Explore

My sister's usually a good travel companion

EXPLORE IS promoting a five-day Transylvanian Backwaters tour which takes in mountains, medieval towns and castles.

Departing in September, October and December, prices start from £668 per person including flights; one night's hotel accommodation and three nights in a guest house including breakfast; one dinner; transport; and the services of a tour leader, local guide and driver.

For further information or to book visit www.explore.co.uk or call 0844-499 0901.

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Sales Director: Simon Eddolls simon.eddolls@travelbulletin.co.uk An empty seat

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Kirker highlights availability on 'Journey through Romania' tour

Sir Alex Ferguson and on the other side Eric "The King" Cantona

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KIRKER HOLIDAYS has places available on a September 8 departure of ‘A Journey through Romania’, an eight-night escorted tour led by expert lecturer Murat Siviloglu.

Prices lead in at £1,575 per person based on two sharing, including BA flights from Heathrow, four- and five-star breakfast accommodation (two in the mountain resort of Sinaia, two in Sighisoara, two in Radauti and two in Bucharest), eight dinners and one lunch, all entrance fees and gratuities, plus the services of a tour lecturer and local guide.

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

Tailor-made itineraries from Ffestiniog Travel FFESTINIOG TRAVEL reports that while its escorted tours to Romania are sold out for 2013, it can assist agents in putting together tailormade trips for their clients.

As an example, highlights of a 12-day trip with a guide and driver can include city sightseeing in Sibiu; tours of Saxon villages including Malancrav, Biertan and Richis; visits to the medieval walled city of Sighisoara and the village of Viscri; lunches with local families and the opportunity to stay overnight in a family home in one of the villages; and a scenic drive across the mountains into Maramures.

Prices lead in at £2,175 per person based on two sharing, including flights from Heathrow, 11 nights’ breakfast accommodation and some lunches and dinners.

For details call 01766-772030 or see www.ffestiniogtravel.com

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Highlighted Word: JAMAICA Travagrams: (top) Azamara Club Cruises

(bottom) Abu Dhabi

Where Am I?: Malmo

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BOOK YOUR SEATS NOW Monday 7th October 2013 The Landmark, 222 Marylebone Road, London NW1 6JQ Dress Code: Black Tie

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