Travel Bulletin 11th October 2013

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October 11 2013 | ISSUE NO 1,845 | www.travelbulletin.co.uk

Middle East Abu Dhabi on target to achieve 2.5m visitors for 2013

this week

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agent bulletin your chance to win an iPhone 5s as part of Travel 2's Australia campaign

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bulletin briefing Advantage goes in search of a technology star for agents

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greece & cyprus new programme additions and trends

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escorted trips operators launch new tours for 2014 in response to demand

(1) Ponant bonus fare based on two people sharing a cabin, excluding pre/post transport, port and security taxes. Ponant bonus fare is susceptible to change depending on the availability at the moment of the reservation.

More informations on www.ponant.com

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Luxury Cruising by Compagnie du Ponant

ARCTIC AND ANTARCTICA: A 5-STAR EXPEDITION Cruising with Compagnie du Ponant in the Arctic and Antarctica offers you the unique fusion of 5-star comfort and a polar expedition in the midst of majestic icebergs and spectacular scenery. The 132-cabin, 5-star yachts LE BORÉAL and L’AUSTRAL reach some of the World’s most unique destinations- many inaccessible to larger ships- while treating guests to unrivalled passenger service, the finest cuisine and a bilingual crew ready to tend to your every need. Discover the treasures of the World by sea.

Winter 2013 - 2014 & Summer 2014 23 departures from € 2600 (1)

Start your journey on ponant.com

Contact your travel agency or call our UK call centre

0800 980 4027

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newsbulletin

This Week news 3

Cover Pictures: Main - Abu Dhabi, Sheilk Zayed Mosque

Inset - The Marbella Beach Hotel Corfu

ABTA unveils winter holiday trends for 2013/14

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notes from normanton

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agent bulletin

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staff review

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puzzle bulletin

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bulletin briefing

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hotel bulletin

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personality bulletin

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greece & cyprus

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escorted trips

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Sandy attends the ABTA Race Day at Pontefract Races your chance to win an iPhone 5s as part of Travel 2's Australia campaign find out what we thought of the DoubleTree by Hilton in Manchester play Su Doku for a chance to win a £50 M&S voucher Advantage goes in search of a 'technology star' for agents Jumeirah Carlton Tower runs Strictly Dance Weekends to mark return of BBC series which UK head of sales can imitate Donald Duck? a round-up of new programme additions and trends operators launch new tours for 2014 in response to demand

middle east Abu Dhabi on target to achieve 2.5m visitors for 2013

www.travelbulletin.co.uk

VENICE VENTURE...In partnership with Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection, Titan recently hosted 12 agents on an eight-day deluxe river cruise to introduce Venice and the Po River. Pictured taking in the city sights are, from the left: Craig Liddle, Titan; Sally Preston, Peakes Travel; Jenny George, Toucan Travel; Lisa Hatcher, Bath Travel; Beth Malloy, Affinion International; David Clark, Mundy Cruising; Wendy Owen, Worldchoice Shrewsbury; Joanne Smithies, Bluewater Holidays; Pam Jackman, Travel Dream; Claire Waldron, Highworth Travel; June Allen, Travelwise of Devizes; Jenny Coxall, HPB Travel Services; Matt Norgrove, Titan; and Andrew Ogden, Travelbank Worldchoice.

ABTA unveils findings of winter holiday trends for 2013/14 ONE IN five people (19%) are planning to take a winter holiday this year, with one in five (21%) still undecided, according to new research from ABTA. Among those planning a break, winter sun remains the most popular type of holiday but city breaks and ski holidays have both increased in popularity, according to the research.

Two in five (40%) of those planning a holiday said they will be heading for some winter sun, with this type of break being most popular with older age groups, with six in ten (59%) of 55-64 year-olds taking a winter sun holiday.

The Canary Islands are this year’s favourite destination for winter sun seekers, who will also be heading to the southern Mediterranean, particularly Greece, Malta and Tunisia. Further afield, the beaches of the Caribbean and Mexico

make for popular longhaul escapes, while Dubai remains popular with families.

The research also found that winter city breaks have seen a jump in popularity with four in ten (39%) of those taking a winter holiday planning a city break this year compared to just under a third (31%) in 2012. The increase is being driven by younger holidaymakers; almost half (48%) of under 35-year-olds planning a winter holiday are taking a winter city break this year compared to a third (33%) in 2012.

Victoria Bacon, head of communications at the association, said: “Winter can be a great time for a holiday as there’s no other season where such a range of holidays are so easily available to British holidaymakers. It’s no wonder that taking a break at this time of year is consistently popular

whether people are seeking sun, snow or a city break.”

Combining a city break with a Christmas market has also become increasingly popular, with favourite European destinations including Frankfurt, Paris and Vienna, while the outdoor markets in London, Birmingham and Edinburgh are also popular.

Meanwhile, following excellent snow conditions across Europe last year, winter sports holidays have seen a boost in popularity, with 15% of those taking a winter holiday incorporating sport compared to 10% last year.

Members of the association are also reporting demand for resorts that offer additional activities, with winter sports enthusiasts keen to do more off the slopes such as yoga, spa treatments and cookery classes.

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newsbulletin Third of holidaymakers underestimate spending according to sunshine.co.uk survey RESEARCH BY www.sunshine.co.uk has revealed that a third of holidaymakers travelling overseas underestimate the amount of spending money they will need, with two-thirds of those surveyed withdrawing more foreign currency while away.

The poll surveyed 2,132 holidaymakers, with 34% of those taking part admitting that they didn’t take enough currency.

Some 67% of respondents said that they had withdrawn more foreign currency from an ATM on holiday to keep them going, while 21% said they had borrowed money from someone else they were on holiday with at the time.

Asked why they needed more cash, 71% said they underestimated how much certain items and services would be, such as the cost of meals and items in shops. In

comparison, 29% of those taking part claimed they took just the right amount of spending money while 37% claimed they took too much.

Chris Clarkson, the company's managing director, said: “There’s nothing worse than getting towards the end of your holiday and having to scrimp and save in order to make your money stretch to the end of your break. That’s why it’s important to have an emergency credit card on hand, just in case, or budget properly for each day that you’re away.

“If you tend to spend above your means and run out of cash on holiday, perhaps an all-inclusive trip would be a better option next time. That way, you have all your meals and drinks paid for in case you end up short of money.”

Collette Worldwide Holidays offers early booking deals in 2014/15 brochure

G Adventures issues seven brochures for 2014 with a focus on travel styles

COLLETTE WORLDWIDE Holidays has launched its 2014/15 brochure featuring new tours in the US, Canada, Portugal and Russia plus early booking discounts of up to £500 per couple.

The new brochure also features the complete programme of RHS Garden Holidays, which are a dedicated collection of garden-themed tours and were launched earlier this year.

As an example, a 12-day Portugal and its Islands itinerary leads in at £2,049 per person based on departures next month. It includes four days in Lisbon, four days on the ‘green island’ of St Michael (the largest of the Azores) and three days in Madeira.

All tours include flights; transfers and transport; breakfast and many other meals; accommodation; the services of a tour manager; and door-to-door pick-up within 100-miles of the UK departure airport.

Early booking offers are available on all bookings made

by November 30.

For more information call 0800-804 8700 or visit www.colletteworldwide.com

G ADVENTURES is offering seven brochures for 2014 that focus on travel styles rather than destination.

According to the operator, the groupings of trips reflects the evolution of adventure travel which now appeals to all demographics of travellers, with different types and service levels of adventure travel now available.

The first brochure to launch will be the Earth brochure featuring the company’s line-up of Classic trips followed by Yolo, trips designed for 1830s; Marine, a collection of small ship sailing and cruising experiences; Local Living, centre-based holiday experiences; Family, for families

looking for more educational holidays; and Active, for trekking, kayaking, cycling and multisport trips.

As each brochure is released there will be a video for each travel style as well as factsheets highlighting a selection of best-selling trips for the style featured.

Physical demands and trip service levels continue to be highlighted in each brochure, however the comfort service level has been renamed ‘upgraded’ to make way for the Comfort travel style. The service levels available are now identified as camping, basic, standard and upgraded.

For further details visit www.gadventures.co.uk

Mailbox Mailings with Travel Bulletin this week include: ● Cox and Kings offers a comprehensive range of

LUCKY NUMBER…Angela Davies, manager of Chester-based Edenred Travel, will now be using a hire car supplied by Affordable Car Hire after winning a competition at the Global Travel Conference held at the De Vere Garden Park Country Golf Resort and Spa Hotel near Chester in March. Davies, who correctly guessed the number of beach balls that were packed into a car at the conference, is pictured with the new Kia Rio after it was delivered to her office.

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October 11 2013

tailor-made travel ideas, escorted group tours, private journeys and short breaks throughout the world. Please find enclosed our brand new Worldwide brochure covering our most enthralling travel destinations. Call 020 7873 5000 to speak to an expert or visit www.trade-gate.co.uk to order bulk deliveries of our 2014 brochure range.

For further details and special offers please read the mail shots that accompany this issue

www.travelbulletin.co.uk

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newsbulletin Iberia set to launch new brand image ON OCTOBER 15 Iberia will present its new corporate logo and brand image which will become effective in midNovember with the delivery of the airline's first Airbus A330 bearing the new logo.

The new brand image, which will keep the current symbols and colour scheme that identify the airline as the Spanish flag carrier, is part of a wider renovation and modernisation programme that is intended to make the carrier a modern, profitable, and sustainable company, attractive both to customers and staff.

Free WiFi from RSSC REGENT SEVEN Seas Cruises has announced that it is offering free WiFi across its fleet. Beginning with the line’s winter 2014/15 sailings, conciergelevel and higher guests will receive up to 500 minutes of free WiFi. The line will also make a multi-million dollar investment to upgrade its fleet's onboard internet offering.

For details visit www.rssc.com

BEAR ESSENTIALS...TIPTO raised £1,000 for charity Reuben’s Retreat from the proceeds of its Name the Bear competition which ran at each of its 25 roadshows over 2012/13. Pictured holding the cheque are, from the left: Zena Calderbank, Hoseasons; Claire Dutton, Superbreak; and Lorna Willis, TIPTO.

The Holiday Team launches Far East trade brochure THE HOLIDAY Team has launched a 180-page Far East brochure exclusively for the trade, with 15% commission on offer.

Featured destinations include Thailand, Malaysia, Brunei, Singapore, Bali, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Hong Kong and China, with more than 194 properties included, ranging from budget accommodation to luxury holiday packages.

Guided touring products cover more than 20 tours, including a Jungle Safari and a luxury train journey on the Eastern and Oriental Express. The brochure also offers six cruises, including a Yangtze River cruise.

For multi-centres holidays there are 16 suggestions and more than 60 day trips, which can be tailored to clients' needs.

It’s time for your travel business to get ahead

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0844 357 7973 or +44 1202 702 226 info@digital-trip.co.uk | www.digital-trip.co.uk

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newsbulletin Tweets of the Week Who’s saying what on Twitter... @AITOHQ Are you Wild About Africa? We have 25 amazing #Africa holidays for you to choose from!

Courtesy of @ExpertAfrica http://bit.ly/GzOF3D

Newsbites ●

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@Butlins See Scooby Doo, Shaggy, Fred, Velma & Daphne live on every 2014 family break in their brand new Scooby Doo live show! http://bit.ly/17o8UY2 ●

@KuoniTravelUK Here is a just a few of our favourite comments from you guys over the last few months. Are you included? http://blog.kuoni.co.uk/so cial-snippets @NCLairport We're consulting on our masterplan until the end of October - have your say at http://newcastleairport.co m/masterplan

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

‘Life Changing’ brochure from Rocky Mountaineer

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INTERNATIONAL DOOR-to-door luggage collection and delivery company First Luggage is now offering 10% commission to agents who sell its economical Luggage Delivery Company service. As an example, agents can earn up to £5.90 for delivery of a 25kg suitcase to Italy.

THE MAYOR of London, Boris Johnson, has signed an agreement through London’s official promotional organisation London & Partners with New York counterparts Michael Bloomberg and New York City & Company to boost tourism and business by encouraging visitors across the Atlantic between London and New York.

TRAVELPORT HAS signed a long-term agreement with Audley to provide the operator with full access to its content.

THE GLOBAL Travel Group has announced that its 2014 conference will take place from March 23-25 at the De Vere Carden Park near Chester.

MALAYSIA AIRLINES has increased

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Shearings Holidays gears up for a Merry Christmas SHEARINGS HOLIDAYS has introduced a selection of Christmas and New Year breaks to its 2013/14 programme, following an increase in sales of European Christmas breaks by 26% yearon-year.

New for this year is a four-day Prague Christmas Markets holiday from £479, staying at the five-star Hotel President, overlooking Prague Castle. The trip includes a guided tour of the city, exploring the Christmas markets, flights and transfers.

The Grand Tourer festive breaks programme has also been expanded, with new itineraries including a seven-day Bavaria’s Festive Charm itinerary from £669 and a 12-day Lake Garda & the Tyrol Christmas & New Year from £1,129. Both include luxury coach travel, premium hotel accommodation and free Home Connect service.

For more information call 0844-824 6359 or visit www.shearings.com

ROCKY MOUNTAINEER has launched a Life Changing Experiences brochure for 2014, with a range of new itineraries on offer. It highlights five steps on how to build a tailor-made rail journey, providing travellers with a range of options to fully customise their North American holiday.

To order a copy of the brochure or view it online visit www.agent.rockymountain eer.com

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capacity and frequency from Kuala Lumpur to regional destinations in Malaysia and throughout key international destinations in Asia and Australasia, among others.

For details see www.malaysiaairlines.com or call 0871-423 9090.

HOTELBEDS HAS improved its hotel portfolio in Asia with a new agreement signed with Swiss Belhotel International.

THOMSON HAS launched a new campaign covering the entire back wall of the check-in area at Gatwick’s North Terminal, including a full wrap of the wall and content across the digital and static screens. The campaign promotes its new 787 Dreamliner and long-haul destinations.

AIR PARTNER has signed a contract with ski tour operator Hotelplan Group to provide flights for the Inghams Ski, Esprit and Ski Total brands from midDecember until mid-April next year from Gatwick and Bristol to Chambery on a Boeing 737-700.

October 11 2013

CHRISTMAS TREAT…Leger Holidays has launched its Christmas & New Year and Christmas Markets brochures, which include 11 new Christmas and New Year tours plus five new Christmas market getaways. New tours include Christmas in Kitzbühel, Christmas or New Year in Luxembourg and three tours for single travellers to Spain, Tuscany and Belgium. A fournight Brussels and Bruges Christmas Markets tour leads in at £329 and includes breakfast accommodation in a five-star hotel, travel by Silver Service coach and excursions.

Pictured marking the new brochure launch is Stacie Harding (left) and Anya Woodard from Premier Travel in Newmarket.

www.travelbulletin.co.uk

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FR 4 N O IG M H £7 TS 99 P P

PANAMA CITY BEACH

Panama City Beach is located in the Northwest region of Florida and spans 27 miles of glorious beachfront along the Gulf of Mexico. Mixing true Southern Hospitality with world-class amenities and attractions, Panama City Beach offers an unparalleled travel experience.

;-2 % *0= (6-:) ,30-(%= 83 8,) *036-(% &)%',)7 -J ]SY [SYPH PMOI XS IWGETI XLI 9/ ERH ¾] [MXL :MVKMR %XPERXMG XS XLI *PSVMHE &IEGLIW JSV E RMKLX HYVEXMSR PSSO RS JYVXLIV ;MXL WS QER] QYWX WII HIWXMREXMSRW E ¾] HVMZI LSPMHE] MW XLI TIVJIGX [E] XS HMWGSZIV XLI XVYI diversity that Florida has to offer.

8S FI MR [MXL E GLERGI SJ [MRRMRK SRI SJ SYV ¾] HVMZI LSPMHE]W WMQTP] ZMWMX www.funway4agents.co.uk and GSQTPIXI SYV WLSVX WYVZI] ;MXL YT JSV KVEFW ]SY LEZI QSVI GLERGI XLER IZIV FIJSVI %PP GSQTPIXIH WYVZI]W will be entered into a prize draw with the winners being chosen at random shortly after the closing date.

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8S FSSO ZMWMX funway4agents.co.uk or call our experienced travel advisors on 0844 557 0626

FLORIDA BEACHES 2014 & 2015

NEW FLORIDA BEACHES 2014 & 2015 BROCHURE OUT NOW Discover 14 incredible destinations

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newsbulletin Last direct flights to Azores by SATA

Notes from . . . n o t n a m r o N OT A great poem from Mike Bartram at Abbey Travel which I thought I would share with you!

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SATA INTERNATIONAL is offering clients a last chance to fly directly to the Azores.

Flying direct from Gatwick to Ponta Delgada every Saturday until October 19, the Azores features several UNESCO sites including the walled vineyards of Pico and the city of Angra do HeroÍsmo.

Original Diving offers a seven-night package to the Azores this month from £990 per person based on two people sharing, including breakfast accommodation at the Hotel Caloura in Sao Miguel in a standard room; seven days’ car hire; full-day island tour with private vehicle and guide; halfday whale-watching expedition; and flights.

To book or for more information call 020-7978 0505 or visit www.originaldiving.com For further details on flights to the Azores visit www.sata.pt

StepMap offers web-based tool to create maps for brochures

“It’s National Cruise With Laura Dawson from Week once again, it Superbreak at the ABTA Race Day comes around every now and then.

And we sell our cruises cheap as chips because there are too many ships.

Vacancies, we have aplenty; berths and bunks just lying empty.

What will it take to make you say ‘My word that’s good, let’s get away’.

So don’t just stand there reading this; these bargains are too good to miss.

Treat yourself to a cruise with Fred before your kids do, when you’re dead!”

Attended the ABTA Race Day at Pontefract Races organised by Jackie Standridge, Abta chairman for Yorks & North Mids region. It was hosted by Jet2Holidays, Atlantic, Classic Collection, Great Rail Journeys, Superbreak & Hurtigruten - what a fantastic day! It was actually 2yrs to the date since I lost my wonderful mum but I think she was with me helping me pick the horses as I won every race except the last one! It was also great to see Dennis Ashby and Stephen Barnes from ABTA again. The next Yorks Abta meeting is at LBIA on Tues the 15th October so email dashby@abta.co.uk if you want to attend.

‘Life is a ticket to the greatest show on earth’ and ‘Vision without action is a daydreamer. Action without vision is a nightmare.’

INTERNET PORTAL StepMap is promoting its map editor that enables tour operators and travel agencies to create, customise and download maps in high resolution for all purposes including web, print and mobile devices.

Technical expert skills are not required and maps can be created within a few minutes. In addition, there are no downloads or installations necessary since the whole process is done in the web browser.

For details see www.stepmap.com

Go

www.travelbulletin.co.uk

WEBSCLUSIVES ●

Some fantastic prizes are on offer from our Iceland Travel competition. Just answer three questions for you chance to win £150 of Love2Shop vouchers. Runners-up prizes include £50 of Love2Shop vouchers. Enter now at www.travelbulletin.co.uk/competitions.

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Win an iPad 4 courtesy of our competition from St Helena Island. Find out more about this fascinating destination, answer a few questions and you’re in the prize draw. Go to: www.travelbulletin.co.uk/competitions

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Keep an eye on the latest Travel Bulletin events – including the 2013 Star Awards - by tuning into our Youtube channel. Subscribe to www.youtube.com/travelbulletin

by SANDRA MURRAY in Normanton, Yorkshire

All this and more at: To respond to any of Sandy’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 ●

UP TO December 31, agents can earn bonus points when booking clients to select Fairmont, Raffles and Swissôtel locations around the world. Agents will also receive a leather passport cover when you actualize a minimum of 50 qualifying client room nights at participating hotels.

For details email famousagents@frhi.com or see frhi.com/famousagents

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AS PART of its ‘Australia: Build the Perfect Holiday’ campaign, Travel 2 has teamed up with Tourism Australia, Emirates, Avis, THL and AAT Kings to showcase Australia's diversity. To celebrate the

campaign the company is giving agents the chance to win a ‘building block’ per qualified booking that includes a minimum of three days’ ground arrangements and flights with Emirates when booked by October 31. One building block equals a £20 prize, two blocks equal a £50 prize, three qualified bookings secures agents a £100 Ticketmaster voucher and four bookings provides agents with £200 towards a team night out. Agents securing five bookings will win an iPad mini, with the grand prize winners that make ten bookings winning an iPhone 5s.

For details see www.travel2.com

Did you know...?

SITE DATA from GlobalVisas.com has revealed the strangest reasons given by those looking to make a visa application. They included a South African man who applied for a European visa as he stated that he wanted to go to Romania to ‘hunt vampires’ for a living; a Brazilian man applied for a UK visa to bring 'flamenco to the streets of Norwich', claiming to be a teacher of the dance; a Russian lady was looking for a European visa to work 'her trade' (prostitution) in the Netherlands; a man openly claimed during his application process that he was 'evading the local authorities' in his native Philippines and wanted to join his family in Australia; and a woman applied for a UK visa after apparently securing 'seasonal work as a zombie' after going for an interview whilst on holiday. www.travelbulletin.co.uk

DALEY GIVEAWAY...Pictured is Emma Hunt from Thomson Coalville collecting £200 in Love2Shop vouchers from Grant Daley of Universal Parks & Resorts for being the first agent in the UK to make a booking to Universal’s new Cabana Bay Beach Resort. The 1,800-room hotel at Universal Orlando Resort will feature valuepriced guest rooms and moderately priced family suites and is scheduled to open for stays beginning on March 31, 2014. It will feature two pool complexes, a themed lazy river experience and a ten-lane bowling alley.

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newsbulletin Balkan launches online golf brochure

staffreview Lauretta Wright from Travel Bulletin spent a night at the DoubleTree by Hilton Manchester - Piccadilly. Here's what she thought...

First impressions ..............................10/10 Having never stayed at a DoubleTree by Hilton before, I was pleasantly surprised when I was offered warm chocolate chip cookies upon check-in for myself and my party - a nice touch. The hotel has an underground car park and is in a central location. The reception area offered a modern vibe, echoed by the interesting pieces of art dotted around and the style of music.

BALKAN HOLIDAYS has launched its first online golf brochure featuring breaks of two nights or more to golfing venues in Bulgaria and Slovenia.

As well as offering holidays at five luxury resorts, the brochure contains details of bespoke holidays.

In Bulgaria three properties are offered - the five-star Thracian Cliffs Golf & Beach Resort, the Lighthouse Golf Resort and Blacksearama Golf & Villas – which are all served by Varna Airport.

In Slovenia, Lake Bled Golf & Country Club is one of the featured properties and offers a Par 73 golf course. There is also a nine-hole lake course, with a further seven courses within an hour’s drive of Lake Bled.

As an example of prices, a seven-night break for two in Bulgaria in May leads in at £459 per person. It includes flights from a choice of seven UK airports, a deposit of £70 per person, golf carriage on charter flights of £25 return and in-flight pre-bookable extras including extra legroom.

For more information call 0845-130 1114 or visit www.balkanholidays.co.uk

Comfort ............................................10/10 I have to say, I’ve never had a better night’s sleep before than at this hotel. I would suggest this was down to tiredness after the five-hour drive to get there, but after a few hours in the room the following morning, it was clear that comfort levels were second to none. The 'Sweet Dreams by DoubleTree Sleep Experience' certainly came true for me on this occasion.

Quality ..............................................10/10 Top-notch quality - from the iMacs in the room (very impressive) down to the luxurious bedlinen.

Affordability ........................................9/10 Room rates at DoubleTree by Hilton Manchester Piccadilly start from £99 per night, on a room-only basis; not unreasonable considering the level of comfort, quality and service.

Two-for-one deals from P&O Ferries P&O FERRIES is cutting the cost of short breaks to Holland and Belgium this autumn with two-for-one mini cruise deals.

When one person pays full price, their accompanying guest goes free on the company’s two-night trips on the Hull-Rotterdam or Hull-Zeebrugge routes, with prices starting from £75 per person, based on two sharing.

The price includes overnight crossings plus coach transfers for a day’s sightseeing in Rotterdam, Amsterdam, Bruges or – new for this year – Ostend.

The offer is available until December 29.

To book or for more information call 0871-664 6664 or visit www.poferries.com/minicruises

Service ..............................................10/10 I can’t fault this – all service was with a smile plus the offer of further help should I need it.

For details see www.doubletree.com

Overall scoring: ..................

10/ 10

If you'd like to take part and receive a free £10 Love2Shop voucher email jill.sayles@travelbulletin.co.uk or call 020-7834 6661 with your name and contact details.

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October 11 2013

A BARKING GOOD TIME…Superbreak recently treated agents to a night at new West End show ‘Barking in Essex’, starring Lee Evans and Sheila Hancock. Pictured getting ready to enjoy the show are, from the left: Catriona Skinner, The Travel Network Group; Graham Balmforth, Superbreak; and Victoria Jones, Advantage Travel Centres.

www.travelbulletin.co.uk

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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: 131

Say Jeet

A➠

B➠ The operators of this airline hope you will have a simple journey.

C➠

Evince

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, October 17th. Solution and new puzzle will appear next week.

The winner for 27th September is Carol Smith, Co Operative Personal Travel in Essex.

September 27 Solution: A=6 B=5 C=3 D=9

This city is famous for its Gs; gondolas, glass and the Guggenheim.

Where Am I?

The Labour Party held their recent annual conference here.

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

Number: 131

Across 1. Operator specialising in European holidays and tours (5) 3. Major hotel group (5) 5. English city with a famous medieval castle (7) 7. Part of the UK initially, which the Romans called Vectis (3) 9. Airline of Israel (2,2) 10. Cuisine with Louisiana origins (6) 12. Mainline station for trains to the North of England and Scotland (6) 14. British Airways business-class service, ___ World (4) 17. Flows through Chester (3) 18. English county town (7) 19. Actor, Alan Davies plays this character, Jonathan ___ (5) 20. Malpensa airport serves this Italian city (5)

www.travelbulletin.co.uk

Down 1. Movie release, sounds like a short break in the City of Light (2,4-3) 2. Operator, specialising in escorted holidays, Great ___ Journeys (4) 3. Capital of Turkey (6) 4. Capital city on the Nile (5) 6. Rabat international airport code (3) 8. Historic German spa city with hot springs (9) 11. Senggigi Beach is a popular resort on this Indonesian island (6) 13. Actor / comedian, ___ Coogan (5) 15. Star sign (3) 16. Netherlands city, famous for its red-skinned cheese (4)

For the solution to the Crossword, Where Am I? and Travagrams, please see page 22 October 11 2013

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bulletinbriefing

Industry Insight by...

Mark Pullen, business development manager of Advantage Travel Gateway, looks at which travel technology contenders agents can depend on...

NY TRAVEL agent will tell you that the search for a perfect travel technology solution is like an epic exploration in pursuit of the Holy Grail.

Front, mid and back office solutions all do pretty much the same thing but we’re always looking for something more, the one enhancement that makes the job of a frontline travel professional that little bit easier and speeds up their sales process.

When I started in travel as a foreign exchange consultant back in ’99 I remember thinking how awkward and clunky the fx system was, but all the branches of this multiple used it and very quickly it became apparent that I was not the only one who thought there must be something better out there.

There was. But even when the new system was launched with a great flourish from the powers that be, we all still ended up wondering why we’d moved to it! Did it do anything new? Did it speed up our jobs? Did it allow us to be better equipped to cope with demanding customers? Sadly the answers were no, no and yes you guessed it, no!

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“In general, travel technology has no single way of working. If suppliers followed a single set of rules when building their connections, the difference would be remarkable” As I moved through the travel industry into sales positions, the technology of any one company was what everyone talked about. “How many systems do you need to log into to do the job?” became a secondnature question. Now tell me that your bookmarks menu is not right down to the bottom of your screen when you open it up. A year ago I jumped at the chance to join Advantage Travel Centres to manage the development of a new booking tool, namely the 12

October 11 2013

Advantage Travel Gateway. The system had been up and running for 18 months or so but it needed guidance and a travel agent’s eye to help move it forward. What we have in the Gateway is a content aggregator that is web-based allowing members to log in from wherever they are with no need to download or install software. Members can prioritise suppliers at will and can choose how they mark-up either behind the scenes or in a panel within the sales process.

How many times have you checked four or five different bedbanks for the same property to compare prices? I would wager that you always use your favourite suppliers too. What if a system checked 16, 17, 18 different bedbanks for you and price ordered the results? The time saved alone is worth its weight in gold. The same goes for flights and even traditional package suppliers such as Thomson, Thomas Cook and Cosmos. The system allows you to build a dynamic package selecting flights, hotels and transfers. You can also add car parking and car hire if required. We’ve recently added the ability to save a quote so that you can recall it in one click and not have to go through the search again and we are also working with back office providers to develop seamless downloads, so that once your booking is made in the Gateway it appears in your back office, so very little or no re-keying is required. A one-stop shop I hear you say.

Now don’t get me wrong, I love the Gateway – it’s my life and I am very protective, but it has its “quirks” shall we say, and that’s the reason I’m involved. It seems nothing is ever perfect but we’ll try and get as close as possible to perfection by listening to our members and the wider travel community to gain an understanding of what is really relevant to you all when it comes to a sales platform. The sticking point here is that in general, travel technology has no single way of working. If suppliers followed a single set of rules when building their connections, the difference would be remarkable.

We are very proud of the Gateway here at Advantage and believe in its ability to be an agent’s best friend when it comes to choosing a sales system. Watch this space! www.travelbulletin.co.uk

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hotelbulletin Crowne Plaza pilots innovations in hotels across Europe CROWNE PLAZA has announced a trial programme of pilots at its London - The City, Rome St. Peter’s and Brussels Airport hotels.

The pilots have been developed in response to research carried out by InterContinental Hotels Group (which the brand is a member of) of more than 6,000 business travellers from nine global markets.

The research revealed that business guests would prefer a more personalised service geared towards their priorities, values and work schedules.

Pilots include Energy Essentials, comprising of run stations (with route maps for runners), complimentary water, fruit and snack boxes; a Fast and Fresh menu, with freshly prepared items that are ready whenever the guest is; Breakfast To Go, breakfast boxes which can be eaten in guest rooms or on the go; and Completely Connected, an in-room solution to business travellers’ connection needs, ensuring all devices can be charged at all times and that guests have access to secure WiFi printing.

The hotel group will be reviewing the success of the pilots with a view to rolling out the best received innovations into other hotels next year.

Mercure marks 40th anniversary with series of events MERCURE HAS invited guests to celebrate its 40th anniversary with a series of surprises and events taking place until October 25.

In the UK, the brand is reviving classic retro dishes with a limited edition £19.73 set menu and ‘40 Minute Happy Hour’ drinks, which include 1970s-inspired cocktails.

Among the surprises include an anniversary menu in Abu Dhabi and all hotels in Brazil will be offering an exclusive 40% discount during the celebratory period.

JURYS INN Islington is embarking on a £12.1million extension project, due for completion in September next year. It will comprise of the development of 143 new bedrooms, a conference centre, coffee bar and gym. Pictured viewing the planned developments is John Brennan (left), CEO of Jurys Inn with Thomas Doyle, general manager of Jurys Inn Islington.

Feversham Arms launches online murder mystery game FEVERSHAM ARMS Hotel and Verbena Spa, located in Helmsley, North Yorkshire, has launched an online social media murder mystery game.

The game, entitled ‘The Art of Murder’, invites Twitter and Facebook users to the hotel virtually, where Lord and Lady Feversham are hosting their annual shoot dinner. Social media users are introduced to the core characters and are asked to create their own before six users’ characters are chosen to attend the virtual event. The six character creators will also win a £50 voucher Feversham Arms Hotel & Verbena Spa each for use at the hotel.

Users are invited to guess the murderer of Carlton Bainbridge over a period of six weeks, with clues and suspects being revealed on a daily basis. One winning guess will then be selected and the user will win an overnight trip to the hotel with dinner, bed and breakfast.

For more details about the campaign visit www.fevershamarmshotel.com/who-done-it

Spend a weekend Strictly Dancing at London’s Jumeirah Carlton Tower JUMEIRAH CARLTON Tower, London is offering Strictly Dance Weekends to celebrate the return of the BBC series, Strictly Come Dancing.

The weekends include lessons taught by Scott Cole, three times New Zealand Latin dancing champion and brother of the show’s Brendan Cole, in the Peak Health Club & Spa on the ninth floor overlooking the Cadogan Gardens.

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After a coaching session with Scott, a complimentary pedicure for two is offered at the spa.

The weekend is completed with a continental breakfast for two in the Rib Room Bar & Restaurant.

The offer is valid on Friday and Saturday nights until December, with a minimum two-night stay required. Prices lead in at £372 per night or £744 for two nights, including VAT. To book call 020-7235 1234.

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personalitybulletin

Kirsty Laifa The UK head of sales for AFerry.co.uk has a skill for imitating Donald Duck and would like the ability to read minds...

Who is your ideal travelling companion?

My family.

What's your earliest childhood memory?

Living in a thatched cottage and the cat jumping out of the window trying to catch the birds!

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

Dawn French - a comedy genius and larger than life character who is beautiful in her own body.

What is your favourite mode of travel?

My car for time, speed and access to anything.

“Don't be afraid to speak up if you have an idea or gut feeling - just do it in the right way"

Career path

What have your travels taught you?

Planning can always go to pot so leave time for spontaneous things.

Also, try and learn languages as this gets you further and respect customs and traditions.

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What is the best advice you recall?

Don't be afraid to speak up if you have an idea or gut feeling - just do it in the right way.

●

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

David Stamp my old boss at French Life/Cendantc who taught me a lot about relationship building, honesty and loyalty.

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October 11 2013

What was your nickname at school and why?

Steam roller or Michelin man - a big cuddly child basically!

What item do you always take with you when travelling?

Spare knickers!

What three words would your friends use to describe you?

Loyal, trustworthy and funny.

If you could have a room full of any one thing, what would it be?

Family for the laughs and the tears and because that's what matters.

Alternatively, a special travel machine that would take me anywhere at the push of a button!

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

To read minds!

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Dec 2006-present: AFerry.co.uk UK head of sales Travel Gateway 1999-2006: Cendant VRG /Wyndham Worldwide/French Life - sales/product manager 1993-1999: Scandinavian Seaways (now DFDS Seaways) - marketing manager - Scandinavian Routes 1991-1993: Keycamp Holidays – marketing assistant 1990-1991: Keycamp Holidays – site supervisor living in France for two years after university.

What's your favourite city and why?

I love Bath in the UK and probably Paris or Barcelona.

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

Running a campsite or bite in south of France (Camargue).

What is your motto in life?

Carpe Diem!

How do you deal with stress?

Not very well. I eat, drink or jump in a jacuzzi/hot tub or drive with loud music.

Is there anything that you dislike about the travel industry?

The offers culture.

What special skill do you have?

I can talk Donald Duck!

How do you cope with the advances in technology?

Better now as I work for a fast moving technology company and I have to understand stuff! However, it was a hard transition from my previous company but I'm a great believer in allowing the experts to do what they do well.

What’s your favourite movie of all time?

Bridget Jones.

What do you love about your job?

It’s fast moving, the relationships and I’m doing something different every day.

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greece&cyprus Mark Warner Resort, Rhodes

Mark Warner sees Greece bookings up by 25% and boosts BA charter flights MARK WARNER reports that bookings to its resorts in Greece are up around 25% compared to the same time last year. The operator has four Greek summer resorts on the islands of Rhodes, Kos, and Lemnos, making up 50% of its programme.

David Hopkins, the company's managing director, said: “Greece as always leads the way with our holidays, and so we are delighted to have our new 2014 beach brochure out early for agents. There is a real appetite from agents for good quality product with guaranteed weather conditions and we are seeing a strong positive impact on sales across the season.

"We have also been boosted by our BA charter flights from Heathrow which now account for 85% of our summer flying programme and which have proved immensely popular amongst the customers of our agent partners.”

New developments for the operator's 2014 programme include free childshare places available from May through to October at selected beach resorts, offering savings of up to £957 and up to £300 off per person on selected dates across the summer, including peak dates.

Brochure prices lead in at £495 per person for a week at Levante Beach Resort in Rhodes, departing on May 4 and including BA flights from Heathrow, seven nights' half-board accommodation, transfers, kids' clubs (ages two and above), evening childcare, a teenagers' club, watersports and tuition, use of tennis courts, aerobics and fitness classes and mountain biking.

For bookings or more information call 0844-273 6826 or email lizzieedwards@markwarner.co.uk

Cyplon announces product expansion for 2014

An island fling that's just made for a marriage made in heaven

CYPLON HOLIDAYS is adding new islands in Greece to its programme for next year and has also taken on a new management team.

The company's sales and marketing director, Tass Anastasi, said: "After a few years of uncertainty, we feel we are ready to re launch ourselves. We have a new management and reservations team and we have also added a new reservations system, along with a new agent friendly dynamic website which will be launched shortly.

"Our new Specialist Cyprus & Greece programme will not only be larger next year but will also offer much more specialist knowledge to make it very user-friendly.

These will include helpful tips such as what to do, where to go, which hotel is adult-friendly/child-friendly and many more breakdowns to give agents a quick reference where to

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recommend to their clients."

New for next year the operator is featuring the islands of Naxos, Cos, Lefkada, Paros and the famous Mamma Mia island of Skopelos.

A 'Mamma Mia Cruise excursion', which is ideal for families, is also being offered for the first time on a renovated traditional fishing boat. It visits the deserted island of Arko and two of the best beaches on the island of Skopelos.

Lunch and fresh fruits are included in the excursion, which leads in at £55 per person and departs weekly on Tuesday.

Meanwhile, the operator is promoting its latest agent booking incentives including a free seven-night breakfast stay for agents booking clients a seven-night stay at the Four Seasons Hotel or Le Meridien Hotel.

For details email sales@cyplon.co.uk or call 0800-074 8888.

by PAUL SCUDAMORE Cyprus is determined to find its real niche in the market by focusing exactly on that - the niche market.

After very successfully targeting the mainstream holiday market sector for several years, which it still attracts in huge numbers, its eyes are now looking at the special interest potential which includes those visitors who are into pursuits such as golf (with a choice of five courses), walking, hiking, cycling, spa treatments, culture, history, archaeology - and getting married.

The Cyprus Tourism Organisation's London-based special interest sales and marketing officer Costas Catsellis said in an exclusive interview with Travel Bulletin last week that weddings had become really big business for the destination. He said: "Weddings in Cyprus are hugely important to us and also for couples from the UK. To give you an idea of the size of this market, some 4,000 UK couples a year come to Cyprus to tie the knot. They generally choose to come between May and October when they can be sure it's not going to rain on their happy day.

"The attraction of Cyprus is not only down to the weather but also the flight time of four hours, and the cost which averages £6,000 compared to the UK which can run to £20,000 or more," he said.

The total wedding effect for Cyprus represents a substantial 20% of total arrivals from the UK, the importance of which can be seen in tour operators such as Planet Holidays deciding to concentrate exclusively on the sector. It's a marriage of minds, and of market.

And in the build-up to World Travel Market, the Cyprus stand is preparing to promote the virtues of the island's rural charms and attractions, and of course, weddings and honeymoons.

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greece&cyprus Olympic Holidays outlines plans to develop villa options for 2014 OLYMPIC HOLIDAYS reports that packages to Greece and her islands have sold well this year, and that its chartering of a new Boeing 737-800, based at Gatwick, has enabled it to satisfy last-minute summer demand.

The operator is partnering with Travel Services A.S., the Czech Republic’s leading charter airline, which operates a ‘next generation’ Boeing 737-800 to the operator's key destinations including Cyprus, Crete and Rhodes until the end of the season.

The company's commercial director Photis Lambrianides said: “We’re very pleased with the punctuality and the high service standards delivered to our customers by Travel Services and their crews. The plane is brand new, with a high spec interior – such as leather seats – that our customers really appreciate.

This continues to be a good year for Greece, and the capacity that the Boeing 737-800 gives us has certainly been needed.”

Meanwhile, the operator will be giving added brochure importance to villa holidays next year as it seeks to further develop the market sector. Lambrianides said: "We are reviewing our villa product with a view to adding more properties. We will be putting more emphasis on this niche area in the second edition of our Summer Sun 2014 brochure."

As an example of prices, a seven-night self-catering break at the three-bedroom Anastasia Villa on Paxos, with six adults sharing costs £435 per person in May 2014. Two-week prices start at £575 per person and both include flights from Gatwick, free car hire and transfers.

For details call 0844-499 4449 or see www.olympicholidays.com

Birthplace of Myths & Legends

Greece byDesign

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FAMILY-RUN BOUTIQUE property, Paradisos Hills Hotel in the Akamas Peninsula of Western Cyprus, is promoting ‘back to nature’ weddings.

The 15-bedroom property, located just outside the traditional Cypriot village of Lysos, offers a mountainous forest location for weddings with views across hillsides and down to the sea.

Cyprus couples can choose either a civil or religious ceremony, both conducted in English. Marriage licences and all paperwork are also issued in English and clients have the help of wedding co-ordinators to organise the day.

Soulla Charalambous, co-owner of the hotel, said: “When it comes to creating an unforgettable occasion, here at Paradisos Hills Hotel we have the right mix of old world charm and exceptional service to make your wedding unique and special. Our ‘back to nature weddings’ are proving a hit with Brits, wanting a more authentic experience.”

The hotel offers three nuptial packages – Peal (€700), Harmony (€800) and Eternity (€9,900), with the latter offering a seven-day exclusive stay at the property for the entire wedding party of up to 30 guests. Prices exclude VAT and other local taxes are subject to price fluctuations. The hotel also offers bed-and-breakfast and half-board options.

For more information visit www.paradisoshills.com

InBrief ● PIRAEUS PORT in Greece welcomed its second international cruise

H O L I D AY S The home of Mediterranean holidays

ABTA No.V5573

'Back to nature' weddings by Paradisos Hills

October 11 2013

passenger terminal in May, whilst a third terminal is set to start operation from April 2014. The port aims to become the most important hub among Mediterranean cruise ports and all three terminals will cover a combined area of 15,500sq m ● RYANAIR, WHICH opened its first base in Greece earlier this year on the island of Crete, plans to invest more than £40m into Chania Airport, where it has had one aircraft base since April 2013. The airline flies to 29 destinations from Chania across Europe, including London, Bristol, Leeds, Nottingham and Glasgow. According to recent reports, easyJet is also considering opening its first base in Greece and is currently in discussions with Heraklion Airport, also in Crete. ● SANTIKOS HOTELS has launched new ‘Harmony Wellness & Healthy Living Programmes’ to guests of Skiathos Princess & Aegean Suites Hotels. For a supplement of €170, guests staying at either hotel have the opportunity to take part in twice daily group activities and workshops. Activities include nature walks, herb hikes, yoga, Pilates, stretching and canoeing whilst there are also a healthy cooking and skincare/beauty workshops available.

For details see www.skiathosprincess.com and www.aegeansuites.com ● ISLANDS OF Greece has added a new luxury villa to its programme.

Prices at Villa Manolioudis in Panormos, Crete, lead in at £899 per person based on four sharing for a week. The price includes flights from Gatwick and car hire.

For details see www.islands-of-greece.co.uk ● CROISIEUROPE HAS launched a new coastal itinerary in Cyprus and the Holy Land with the first departure on November 16. The eight-day cruise on the Belle de L’Adriatique starts in Limassol and visits Paphos, Haifa and Larnaca before returning to Limassol. There are 11 departures up to March 15, 2014 with prices starting from €1,217 (approximately £1,025) per person.

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escortedtrips TABER HOLIDAYS' Northern Lights Exploration leads in at £1,284 per person and includes a visit to Eyjafjallajökull, Iceland’s famous ‘ash cloud’ volcano; the Blue Lagoon; and chasing the aurora borealis. The price includes seven nights' breakfast accommodation, flights from Heathrow, transfers, a fully escorted six-day coach tour with an English-speaking guide and a range of activities and excursions. The tour departs twice weekly until April 6, 2014.

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

G Adventures announces 28 new trips in its Classic trip line-up ESTONIA, IRELAND, Kyrgyzstan, Latvia, Lithuania, Mozambique and Rwanda are the seven new countries appearing in G Adventures’ 2014 ‘best-of’ compilation of Classic trips, which features 28 new trips from a total of 278 trips around the world.

The operator reports increased demand for more trips in Indonesia, China, South Africa and Ecuador and holidays visiting these countries feature heavily in the new line-up, along with holidays in destinations previously featured that have been

given a new twist, such as Taste of Mexico and Belgian Beer Tour.

The company's managing director Michael Edwards says that the Classic trips provide travellers with a consistent experience, whether they travelled one year or 20 years ago.

He said: "As we’ve grown we’ve introduced a number of new trip styles to suit traveller’s varied interests. The Classic range is our largest collection and reflects the typical G Adventures' traveller, someone looking for local and

culturally immersive experiences, travelling in a small group with an international mix of travellers.”

As an example, new itineraries include a nine-day 'Best of Java' which is being highlighted as ideal for clients looking to explore the cultural side of Java and ends on the beach in Bali. Prices lead in at £749 per person excluding flights, and the tour departs year-round from January next year.

For further information see www.gadventures.co.uk or call 0844-272 2040.

Shearings expands Grand Tourer programme in response to demand SHEARINGS HAS expanded its range of Grand Tourer premium escorted tours for 2014 following a popular UK and European programme in 2013.

Following sales increases of holidays to Germany by 64% year-on-year, the company is introducing a new nine-day Discover Bavaria itinerary from £799, which includes visits to Lake Chiemsee and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Regensburg old town. The operator is also introducing a new eight-day Wiesbaden & Rheingau Wine Festival from £749, which includes the Rheingau wine festival and a trip to the Rhine Valley.

Three new Italian holidays are also being added following a 44% year-on-year sales increase. New itineraries include a 15day Classic Italian tour from £1,549, taking in the key Italian cities and a 12-day Hidden Apulia & Vieste tour from £1,049, which explores the history and culture of south-east Italy.

Having seen strong sales in 2013, the first year of its UK

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Grand Tourer itineraries, the company has also introduced three new holidays including a five-day Royal Bath, Houses & Gardens holiday from £359, which stays at the oldest hotel in Bath, the Lansdown Grove, and an Enigma Code & the Blitz five-day itinerary from £369, which gives an insight into the codebreaking work done at Bletchley Park.

The operator's commercial director Caroline Brown said: “We’ve seen a year-on-year increase in the number of customers booking premium escorted tours, and our 2014 programme will give agents further sales opportunities to sell these lucrative products.

“Our 2014 programme builds on the success of this year’s Grand Tourer collection, with even more holidays taking in sights of cultural and historical importance across the UK and Europe.”

For more information visit www.shearings.com or call 0844-824 6359.

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escortedtrips Kirker adds new cultural tours across range of destinations

COLLETTE WORLDWIDE Holidays has launched its new 2014/15 brochure, with the addition of three new tours in the US, Canada, Portugal and Russia. The brochure also features the complete programme of RHS Garden Holidays, a dedicated collection of garden-themed tours operated by the company in conjunction with the Royal Horticultural Society. Lead in prices start from £1,499 for a ten-day 'Highlights of China' tour, which includes 14 meals, flights, accommodation, a tour manager and door-to-door pick up within 100 miles of the UK departure airport. Savings of up to £500 per couple are available on all 2014/15 bookings made before November 30.

For details see www.colletteworldwide.com or call 0800-804 8700.

KIRKER HOLIDAYS has launched the latest edition of its Cultural Tours & Music Holidays brochure. Encompassing itineraries in the UK, Europe and the US, the company’s 2014 programme features 14 new tours including two new exclusive Kirker Music Festivals and a dedicated programme created to mark the centenary, next year, of World War I. Led by experts in military history, each of the operator’s three World War I commemorative itineraries offers a perspective on the tragic events of the period from 1914-18 in the esteemed surroundings of Oxford’s Wolfson College, as well as on the ground in Northern France and Turkey. In the UK, the three-night weekend break examines the myriad aspects of war: from the military and historical perspective to the way in which it was interpreted by poetry, music, literature and painting. Departing on July 4, prices lead in at £995 with no single supplement.

Also new to the operator’s cultural selection for next year is an Albania, Greece & Macedonia option which costs from £1,957 for 11 nights; a Basque France & the Foothills of the Pyrenees tour for £1,858 for seven nights; and a Genoa & the Ligurian Riviera option for £2,396 for seven nights.

Prices are based on two sharing and include flights from London or Standard Class Eurostar, transfers, breakfast accommodation, some other meals, excursions/musical performances and the services of a tour lecturer. UK tours do not include travel to/from the destination.

For further information or to book call 020-7593 2284, email culturaltours@kirkerholidays.com or visit www.kirkerholidays.com

Bales Worldwide marks 66th anniversary with launch of three 66-day tours BALES WORLDWIDE is celebrating its 66th anniversary with the creation of three 66-day exclusive tours that traverse Asia, Latin America and Africa and the Middle East.

The first tour in Asia leads in at £20,945 per person and takes in India, Nepal, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Burma (Myanmar), China and Japan. Highlights include the Taj Mahal, exploring the history of Kathmandu, experiencing the hustle and bustle of Bangkok, visiting the Buddhist temples and monasteries of Luang Prabang, taking in the Angkor Wat, walking part of the Great Wall of China and visiting Kyoto.

A Latin America itinreray leads in at £26,495 and visits Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Bolivia, Peru and the Galapagos

Islands. Highlights include a visit to Rio de Janeiro, trekking in the Amazon rainforest, sailing on the Amazon River, taking in the Iguassu Falls and exploring Machu Picchu and the Galapagos archipelago.

Meanwhile, an Africa and Middle East tour costs from £29,950 and takes in Turkey, Oman, Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, Zambia, Botswana and South Africa.

Highlights include the ancient marvels of Turkey, the sights and souqs of Oman, the archaeological and cultural wonders of Lalibela, wildlife of the Masai Mara Nature Reserve and a visit to Victoria Falls.

For more information visit www.balesworlwide.com or call 0845-057 0600.

Insight introduces San Marino, Andorra and Moldova to programme INSIGHT VACATIONS has issued its 2014 Europe, Eastern Mediterranean & Morocco brochure featuring a range of new premium escorted journeys, an expansion of the Country Roads style of touring, plus new Signature hotels, dining and experiences.

New destinations include San Marino, Andorra and Moldova.

The company’s CEO John Boulding said: “A ‘signature’ is a sign of authenticity and in our new brochure we have highlighted a range of signature hotels, dining and experiences. We’ve selected nearly 60 signature hotels that

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have something really special about them - they could be a chateau or manor house or be set in an incredible location like Hotel Ruze in the centre of Cesky Kromlov, a UNESCO world heritage site or the five-star luxury Ashford Castle situated in the West of Ireland. We know that it’s authentic local experiences that can turn any given day on tour into a highlight. Signature experiences have been designed to capture the imagination of our guests whether they are watching sheepdog training in the Scottish highlands, olive oil tasting in Provence, learning about

the workings of an organic farm or visiting glassblowers, artisans, clog makers or stone masons to watch them at work and get an insight into their lives.”

Additional features in the programme include an expanded Country Roads programme to bring the total number to 20; welcome receptions on all itineraries offering a sit down meal and dinearound dinners; and extensive Wi-Fi availability on coaches and in hotels.

For more information visit www.insightvacations.com/uk or call 020-7468 4335.

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escortedtrips GRJ & Treyn introduce 29 European & UK holidays by rail for 2014 GREAT RAIL Journeys has launched its new ‘Europe & UK Holidays by Rail 2014’ brochure which features ten new itineraries to take the total to 104 tours.

New options include The Splendid Italian Lakes; A Castle in the Venetian Hills; The Beauty of Calabria; 1930s Pullman Glacier Express; The GoldenPass Panoramic Express; Heritage Railways of Austria; Journey to the Orient; Britain’s Royal Heritage; and Little Trains of the Somme and The Battle of Bannockburn.

Brochure prices lead in at £355 per person for the ‘Torquay & the Eden Project' tour.

Meanwhile, sister company Treyn has launched its new ‘European &

Worldwide Rail Holidays 2014’ brochure, featuring 19 new tours, with an increase in UK, Italy and Spain itineraries.

Brochure prices lead in at £285 per person for a ‘Yorkshire by Steam’ tour.

Tony Byrne, national sales manager at Great Rail Journeys, said: “We have so many new tours for 2014 including more Italian adventures, two new classic rail experiences in Switzerland, and our programme of Battlefields tours commemorating the 100th anniversary of the start of World War One, so we have plenty for agents to promote within the programme.

"Demand for rail holidays is growing and customers looking for value for money and inspiration will not be

Torbay-Express, Croyton Cove

disappointed with the new itineraries we have on offer for next year, plus the opportunity to save up to £25 per person with our early booking offer.”

To book or for further information call 01904-521980 or see www.greatrail.com

Visions of Africa sees demand for combined Cape Town & Garden Route tours VISIONS OF Africa reports that its most popular South Africa tours are a combination of Cape Town and the Garden Route.

Tours either start and finish back at Cape Town or are oneway with guests disembarking in Port Elizabeth where they can either fly back to London (via Johannesburg) or extend their stay at one of the local malaria-free private game reserves.

As an example, an eight-night ‘Garden Route & Winelands’ tour offers visitors the opportunity to explore the highlights of the Western Cape including whale-watching (in season), wine tasting as well as sightseeing in Oudtshoorn and Knysna on the Indian Ocean coast. Activities include a visit to the Cango Caves, a boat ride on the Knysna lagoon and a chance to visit rescued elephants at the Elephant Sanctuary.

Prices lead in at £2,365 based on two sharing and include flights from Heathrow, pre-and post-tour accommodation in Cape Town on a bed-and-breakfast basis, transfers, accommodation on the tour on a half-board basis with two additional lunches, transport and a guide.

Regional UK departures can be arranged at additional cost.

For details or to book call 01444-225640 or visit www.visionsofafrica.co.uk

Titan offers eight-day Madeira option from £875 in new Worldwide brochure WENDY WU Tours is highlighting an eight-day Hong Kong and Macau Chinese New Year escorted tour which takes visitors to Macau to visit St Paul’s Church and Macau Tower, which guests can head to the top of to take in the views across the city. In the evening visitors can enjoy a traditional Macanese meal before touring the Macau New Year Flower Market. The tour then travels to Hong Kong, where guests enjoy a traditional Chinese New Year’s Eve dinner followed by a tour of the Victoria Harbour New Year Flower Market. On New Year’s Day guests spend the first half touring Stanley Market, Aberdeen Fishing Village and Victoria Peak, before taking their reserved seats for the International Chinese New Year Parade. The tour ends with a cruise along Victoria Harbour watching the New Year Fireworks display.

Prices lead in at £2,190 per person, based on a January 26 departure, and include flights, transport, accommodation, meals as stated, touring with guides and entrance fees.

For details call 0844-499 3899 or visit www.wendywutours.co.uk

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October 11 2013

TITAN IS HIGHLIGHTING an eight-day Madeira tour in its new Worldwide brochure which leads in at £875 per person, along with a 17-day ‘Tracks of Africa’ tour, which is new for next year and costs from £4,395.

The operator’s agency sales executive, Ashley Rushman, said: The majority of escorted tours may focus on spectacular landscapes and cultural treasures, but there is Titan holiday to suit almost any travel interest. All of our tours feature a VIP Home Departure Service as standard and the key to an escorted tour is value – not only do you get to experience the best of an entire country or region for the cost of a single holiday, but escorted tours are also remarkable inclusive, with scheduled flights, high quality hotel and cruise accommodation, a number of meals, visits and excursions plus the services of a tour manager throughout.”

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ROTANA WILL be welcoming guests to its first Oman property, Salalah Rotana Resort from December 25. Offering views over the Arabian Ocean, the five-star resort offers 399 rooms and suites, each furnished with modern amenities and conveniences, as well as 45 exclusive villas. The company plans to launch several new properties throughout the year and increase the total number of rooms under its management to more than 14,500 by the end of the year.

Dubai Tourism launches Facebook page exclusively for agents DUBAI TOURISM has introduced another means of communicating with agents with the launch of its dedicated Facebook page. The new launch complements the tourist board’s existing channels of communicating with UK and Irish agents that include the Dubai Expert training programme, Twitter page, Dubai Update Newsletter and its newly launched app: Dubai The Destination.

At the click of a button agents can keep updated on everything Dubai by hitting ‘Like’ on the new tradefocused page which can be found at www.facebook.com/dubaiexpertsuk Agents can also find details of upcoming incentives, events and roadshows and when and where they are

taking place, as well as information on tour operator partnerships that Dubai is involved with.

The page also offers a social community for agents with the chance to share their experiences, memories and photos of their time in Dubai, especially on Dubai Tourism arranged fam trips.

The tourist board’s UK & Ireland director, Ian Scott, said: “As a tourist board, making information about our destination as easily accessible as possible to travel agents is integral to our sales and marketing strategy.

“By launching a dedicated travel trade Facebook page we are offering yet more choice of communication channels for agents wanting to stay in touch and updated about the product.”

Shangri-La’s Horizon Club marks one-year anniversary HORIZON CLUB, the executive retreat at Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri in Abu Dhabi, has welcomed the addition of new rooms to mark its one-year anniversary.

As part of the hotel’s effort to cater to the growing number of business travellers and leisure guests while offering high standards of personalised service and special privileges, 22 of the 46 rooms on Level 4 have been converted to Horizon Club rooms, which feature 40-inch LED televisions, iPod docking stations and valet stands.

Guests also receive daily replenishment of Chinese tea and fresh fruit, complimentary suit pressing, shoe-shine services and a 24-hour

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information technology butler service.

Guests staying in Horizon Club rooms and suites also receive meet and greet at the airport when booking a hotel limousine transfer; private inroom check-in with welcome Chinese tea, fresh fruit and tailored amenities; a dedicated concierge team; hot beverage room service along with wake-up call; access to the Horizon Club Lounge which includes daily breakfast, afternoon tea, evening cocktails with canapés, all-day nonalcoholic beverages; Wi-Fi and broadband Internet access; a selection of newspapers and magazines; and two-hour use of meeting room facilities per day. A private in-room check-out

Horizon Club Deluxe Room

with late check-out privileges up to 16:00 is also available, subject to availability.

For more information or to book visit www.shangri-la.com/abudhabi

October 11 2013

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InBrief We asked our staff the following question this week: What is the strangest thing you have ever eaten?

Publisher: Jeanette Ratcliffe jeanette.ratcliffe@travelbulletin.co.uk A parson's nose (accidentally when I was 6)

Editor: Lauretta Wright lauretta.wright@travelbulletin.co.uk Play-doh when I was a child - it actually tasted nice!

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

Contributing Editor: Paul Scudamore post@travelbulletin.co.uk Dried insects. Oh, and lots of humble pie

Sales Director: Simon Eddolls simon.eddolls@travelbulletin.co.uk Sea urchin

Advertisement Manager: Tim Podger tim.podger@travelbulletin.co.uk Snake, it tasted like chicken

Online Sales Manager: Nick Boocock nick.boocock@travelbulletin.co.uk Emu. Rod Hull wasn't happy

Account Manager: Bill Coad bill.coad@travelbulletin.co.uk Conch.. Caribbean shell fish

Sales Executive: Chris Gascoine chris.gascoine@travelbulletin.co.uk

● THE QATAR Tourism Authority’s recently released figures show that despite a

4.5% increase in hotel rooms available, the second quarter (April – June 2013) showed hotel occupancy rates rise from 58% to 67%. Furthermore, the total number of four- and five-star hotels increased by US$42.8m with a 20% increase in revenue at five-star hotels.

For details see qatartourism.gov.qa ● VIRGIN HOLIDAYS is offering four nights in Dubai from £1,016 per person, based on two sharing. The offer includes scheduled flights with Emirates from Gatwick direct to Dubai, accommodation at the five-star Atlantis, The Palm on a half-board basis and transfers. It is based on a December 2 departure.

For details see www.vhols4agents.co.uk or call 0844-557 3973. ● ST. REGIS Hotels & Resorts, part of Starwood Hotels & Resorts, has announced the debut of The St. Regis Abu Dhabi in the capital of the U.A.E, marking the brand’s second hotel in Abu Dhabi and third hotel to open in the Middle East.

See www.stregis.com/abudhabi for details. ● THE OBEROI Group has announced the opening of The Oberoi, Dubai, the group’s first property in the United Arab Emirates. Located at The Oberoi Centre, the contemporary property offers 252 rooms and suites that offer views of the city’s skyline.

For more information visit www.oberoihotels.com ● EMIRATES IS offering a 20% early booking offer for five nights at the Jumeirah Beach Hotel in Dubai, saving up to £2,290 per couple, when booked by December 15. The deal leads in at £1,415 per person and is based on two sharing an Ocean Deluxe room on half-board. It is valid for travel between January 14-23, 2014 and also includes flights from Gatwick and transfers. ● THE JORDAN Tourism Board has launched a new dedicated gastronomic microsite designed to showcase the country’s diverse culinary scene and Bedouin hospitality. As well as an overview and introduction to Jordanian food, the site features interactive recipes with step-by-step videos on how to create native specialities including tabbouleh (traditional Arab salad made of bulgur, tomatoes, cucumber and finely chopped herbs), dough and cucumber yogurt salad.

For details see www.visitjordan.com/food

I had a dodgy breakfast in Wrexham once

Sales Executive: Matt Gill matt.gill@travelbulletin.co.uk A moth

Senior Designer: Genaro Santos genaro.santos@travelbulletin.co.uk Fizzy cola bottles

Assistant Designer: Nicky Valsamakis nicky.valsamakis@travelbulletin.co.uk Crocodile

Production: Nick Salt production@travelbulletin.co.uk Simon’s cooking

Circulation Manager: Jim Merchant post@travelbulletin.co.uk 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: Wyndeham Grange Limited Subscriptions are £105 p.a. £155 overseas ISSN: 0956-2419

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October 11 2013

Abu Dhabi on target to achieve 2.5m visitors ACCORDING TO figures released by the Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority, 251,504 visitors stayed in the emirate’s hotels and apartments during August this year - a 37% increase on the same month last year.

The UK remains the second largest overseas market for Abu Dhabi with 96,923 Britons checking into the emirate – a 9% rise on 2012 – delivering 458,943 guest nights, up 21%, with British guests staying on average close to five nights.

The tourist office says that hotel figures for the first eight months of this year leave it well placed to achieve its 2.5m guest target for the year. The emirate anticipates a strong year end with a line-up of major events yet to come, including October’s EidFest, November’s F1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Abu Dhabi Art and the emirate’s major National Day festival weekend in December.

puzzlesolutions Crossword: Across: 1. LEGER, 3. ACCOR, 5. WARWICK, 7. IOW, 9. EL AL, 10. CREOLE, 12. EUSTON, 14. CLUB, 17. DEE, 18.

BEDFORD, 19. CREEK, 20. MILAN. Down: 1. LE WEEK-END, 2. RAIL, 3. ANKARA, 4. CAIRO, 6. RBA, 8. WIESBADEN, 11. LOMBOK, 13. STEVE, 15. LEO, 16. EDAM.

Highlighted Word: LONDON Travagrams: (top) easyJet

(bottom) Venice

Where Am I?: Brighton

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Agent Training Event

Indian Ocean Showcase

Invites you to attend an

Indian Ocean Showcase Agent Networking Evening

Monday 25th November 2013 The Midland Hotel, Manchester City Centre Travel Bulletin is delighted to invite you to this training event covering all that this stunning in terms of accommodation, ights, health and wellbeing,wedding and honeymoon and tailormade packages.

Registration :

18.00 hours

Networking & Presentations:

18.30 hours

Bu et, Entertainment & Prizes:

20.00 hours

Carriages:

21.30 hours

For more information on how to exhibit or attend as a guest please email : jeanette@travelbulletin.co.uk or telephone 020 7834 6661

Exhibitors