Travel Bulletin 13th July

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July 13 2012 | ISSUE NO 1,787 | www.travelbulletin.co.uk

NEW ORLEANS PRICES FROM ÂŁ849PP

WIN a 4 night holiday for 2 in New Orleans!

More details overleaf

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NEW ORLEANS IS ONE OF AMERICA’S MOST UNIQUE AND EXCITING CITIES, LOCATED WITHIN THE STATE OF LOUISIANA.

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1. New Orleans has so much to offer in terms of attractions, from historic sites to haunted walking tours and museums to live theatres.

Here at Funway we have the perfect trip just for your clients – the New Orleans Haunted History Ghost Tour, from only £14pp!

2. Check the festival calendar – Celebration is at the core of the New Orleans experience, and to get a true taste of the city, every visitor should join in.

3. Enjoy the music – As you know, New Orleans is the birthplace of jazz and is simply one big stage. To help your clients play their part we have a Creole / Cajun Queen Dinner Jazz Cruise where the sounds of the New 3VPIERW NE^^ FERH ½ PPW XLI EMV JVSQ NYWX TT 4. Eat! New Orleans is considered the most delicious city in America, with world-famous chefs and more restaurants than ever.

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Being the birthplace of jazz, you can guarantee that your clients will have the experience of a lifetime when visiting this music lover’s paradise.

So with 20 years of experience, why not use our top selling tips to help your clients book their Deep South holiday to New Orleans?

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IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO WIN A 4 NIGHT HOLIDAY FOR 2 IN NEW ORLEANS, LOOK NO FURTHER. Simply email win@funway.co.uk with the correct answers to the following questions to be in with a chance!

1. How old is Funway Holidays?

2. In which State is New Orleans situated?

Alabama Georgia Louisiana 3. New Orleans is the birthplace of what?

Jazz Sport Wine DOUBLE YOUR CHANCES! Book any holiday that includes at least 3 nights in New Orleans and you will be entered into this fantastic prize draw TWICE! Email your answers to the above questions along with your Funway Holidays reservation number.

ENTRY CLOSES: 8TH AUGUST 2012 8LI EFSZI TEGOEKIW EVI FEWIH MR ´W TIV TIVWSR [MXL EHYPXW WLEVMRK E WXERHEVH VSSQ MRGPYHIW ¾ MKLXW JVSQ London Heathrow with British Airways / American Airlines, accommodation as stated and all taxes and fuel surcharges. All prices are subject to availability and change, and can be withdrawn at any time. Supplements may apply at certain times. 4 night New Orleans holiday prize includes: 3 nights at the Royal Sonesta Hotel, 1 night at XLI 3EO %PPI] 4PERXEXMSR 'SXXEKIW VIXYVR ¾ MKLXW [MXL &VMXMWL %MV[E]W %QIVMGER %MVPMRIW VIXYVR EMVTSVX XVERWJIVW and 3 fantastic excursions. Holiday prize is subject to availability and further terms and conditions may apply.

For more details or to book call now on 0844 557 0626 or visit www.funway4agents.co.uk

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July 13 2012 | ISSUE NO 1,787 | www.travelbulletin.co.uk

Far East The emergence of emergency action by PATA this week agent bulletin 9 win a trip on an Orlando fam with USAirtours

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pix mix Jet2Holidays celebrates its fifth birthday across four cities

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uk & ireland a round-up of summer events, attractions & the latest offers

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red sea hoteliers slash rates to entice summer visitors

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Costa Dorada’s booked, so...What you gonna do when you’re there?

Meet the locals and enjoy the ride of your life!

Show them how to pack more into their Spanish holiday with a fun-packed family day out to PortAventura – the theme park that promises six exotic lands in one great place. NEW! May 2012 welcomes ‘Shambhala’ - Europe’s tallest roller coaster will you dare take the ride of your life?!

9/ )\GPYWMZI 8MGOIXW %ZEMPEFPI 4VMGIW JVSQ EHYPX GLMPH XS ]IEVW

Visit www.attractionworld.com today 2011 WINNER

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ZIP DI DO DAH...the Dominican Republic Tourist Board and Air France jointly hosted an Irish trade fam to Punta Cana recently. Pictured lining up getting ready to experience some zip-lining are, from the left: Sonja Rogers, Dominican Republic Tourist Board; James Kinch, Trailfinders; Ann Laide, Tropical Sky; Teresa Murphy, Air France KLM Delta; Kathleen O'Sullivan, Travel Counsellors; Jane Mahony, Club Travel; and Audrey Joyce, SHGI American Holidays. Agents also have the opportunity to win a place on an allinclusive fam trip from September 27 to October 4 with BA. To enter, agents need to send their Dominican Republic booking reference number, the hotel sold and the tour operator by email to Sonja@godominicanrepublic.com for a chance to win.

Cover Pictures: Main - Yasufumi Nishi, JNTO

Inset - Great Little Breaks

This Week 3

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at home with eileen

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the latest industry reports, news & events find out what homeworker Eileen has been up to lately win a trip on an Orlando fam with USAirtours the latest updates from the Association of Independent Tour Operators win a £50 Hotel Chocolat voucher by playing Su Doku news & views from Paul Sharp of the River Cruise Line Jet2Holidays celebrated its fifth birthday across four cities which industry personality takes his own pillow & blanket when travelling? a round-up of summer events, attractions & the latest offers hoteliers slash rates to entice summer visitors the emergence of emergency action by PATA

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Cruise industry injects more than £2billion to UK economy THE STRONG growth of the British cruise industry continued in 2011 despite the global economic slowdown, according to data released by the European Cruise Council (ECC).

The cruise industry generated direct expenditure of £2.28billion last year in the UK, up 10.2% on 2010. The European total was £12.1billion, up 3.3%, with the UK spend second only to Italy and UK growth only behind France.

Together with indirect expenditure the total contribution of the global cruise industry to the European economy rose to a record £29.66billion.

The number of UK passengers who took a cruise last year increased by 10.9% to 1.7million which represented 28% of the continent’s cruise market. European passenger numbers rose by 9% to 6.2million and the global figure for 2011 was 20.6million passengers.

David Dingle, member of the ECC executive and CEO of Carnival UK, said: “Despite these challenging times the cruise industry is making an increasingly significant contribution to the British economy and that of mainland Europe by creating jobs and acting as a catalyst for tourism.

"Next year we will see more ships deployed in UK ports which we believe is testimony to the continued confidence in the UK as the world’s second largest source market for the cruise industry.”

Fred. Olsen launches new ‘Worldwide Cruises’ brochure for 2013/14 FRED. OLSEN Cruise Lines has launched its new brochure of ‘Worldwide Cruises’ for 2013/14, featuring a comprehensive programme of ex-UK cruises, from early 2013 to spring 2014, on the line’s fleet of four smaller, traditional style ships – Balmoral, Braemar, Boudicca and Black Watch.

The cruises visit a total of 240 different ports, in 77 countries and islands, worldwide.

Of these ports, there are 12 new or ‘maiden’ ports over the cruise season.

The programme includes a choice of cruises, ranging from a mini-cruise of two nights to an epic world ‘Grand Voyage’ on Black Watch’s ‘World Cruise’ of 114 nights, departing in January 2014.

New destinations for the 2013/14 cuise season include Haugesund and Bronnovsund in Norway; Myanmar; Osaka and Hiroshima in Japan; Nawiliwili, Hawaii; Peurto Vallarta, Mexico; Boulogne, France; Vaasa, Sweden;

Húsavik, Iceland; Townsville, Australia; and Melilla, a Spanish enclave in Morocco.

Cruise prices for the 2013/14 programme start from £199 per person for a two-night mini cruise on Boudicca, departing from Belfast on October 15, 2013, visiting Liverpool, and returning to Belfast. The price is based on two adults sharing an inside, twin cabin Grade ‘I’.

The starting price for the longest cruise in the programme, Black Watch’s 114-night ‘Australia & South America World Cruise’, departing from Southampton on January 14, 2014, is £9,399 per person, based on two adults sharing an inside, twin cabin Grade ‘I’.

Prices include ensuite accommodation, all meals and entertainment on board, and port taxes.

For more information see www.fredolsencruises.com or call 01473-742424.

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newsbulletin Cape Verde Experience promotes early booking deals with savings of up to £200 THE CAPE Verde Experience has issued its Cape Verde November 2012 – October 2013 brochure featuring six of the ten islands in the archipelago and a wide choice of holidays with 16 hotels, including two new additions, plus a Tall Ship Cruise. Twin-centre holidays are also available through the operator, as well as a selection of programmed and tailor-made islandhopping itineraries.

Brochure highlights include two new hotels on the island of Boa Vista – Spinguera Eco Lodge and Orquidea

Guest House; the addition of a sailing holiday featuring the three-masted topsail schooner ‘Oosterschelde’, which encounters at least six of the Cape Verde islands during its 12-day voyage; and a choice of flights including three flights to Sal and six to Boa Vista for winter 2012/13 from a selection of UK airports.

Seven-night holidays are priced from £679 per person based on two sharing a standard room with breakfast at the two-and-a-half grade Hotel Pontão on Sal, including flights,

taxes, transfers and a representative in resort. The price offers an early booking discount of £20 per person.

Early booking offers for travel this winter are valid if booked by July 31 and include savings of up £200 per person on holidays based at the Meliá Tortuga Beach Resort & Spa on Sal or at the Iberostar Club Boa Vista, as well as a discount of £100 per person on the 14-night ‘Mountains & Beaches’ island-hopping itinerary.

For details call 0845-330 2046 or visit www.capeverde.co.uk

Frequent flyer offer from CityJet CITYJET HAS launched its first multi-buy loyalty offer for frequent flyers. Entitled ‘High Five’, anyone booking five return flights on the airline’s London City-Edinburgh route before October 31 will receive a sixth flight free which can be used anywhere on the airline’s European point to point network.

Once they have flown five return flights (or equivalent of), the carrier will send them an email with their free ticket.

The airline flies to Edinburgh up to four times a day from London City, with fares starting from £111 return, including taxes and charges.

For more information visit www.cityjet.com/freeflight

GLASSY LADIES....Club Med held its bi-annual lunch last week for its top agency sellers at the Criterion restaurant in London’s Piccadilly. Pictured are, from the left: Yvonne Holmes, Classic Travel; Joy Lacana, Indirect agency sales manager, Club Med UK & Ireland; and Nici Davies, Travelwise Ltd.

Brits don't recognise more than third of countries competing in Olympics MORE THAN 183 countries from across the globe have qualified at least one athlete in the 2012 Olympic Games and will be coming to Britain this year to take part, but a new study from latedeals.co.uk has found that many Brits don't recognise the names of more than a third of the National Olympic Committees competing in this year's games.

The company, which quizzed more than 2,000 holidaymakers, found that 66% of Brits think that Cancun is in the US (not Mexico), 52% reported that Prague was in Sweden and 48% don't know that the Alps are in Europe.

Some 41% also think that the Three Valleys are in Austria and half couldn't name the countries that Marrakech, Frankfurt and Milan belong to.

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Mailbox Mailings with Travel Bulletin this week include: ● BOURNE LEISURE'S latest 'UK Today' newsletter is

out today with all the news, fun and chances to win with Butlins, Haven and Warner Holidays. ● CYPLON HOLIDAYS is offering an exclusive bowls

package to Cyprus. As an example a 7 night breakfast stay at the four-star Athena Beach in Paphos costs from £200 per person including transfers. Agents receive 10% commission. Call 0800 074 8888 or visit www.cyplon.co.uk.

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

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newsbulletin Tweets of the Week Who’s saying what on Twitter... @vikingriveruk WIN A KINDLE! We're running four Facebook comps over the next four weeks to win fabulous prizes. Enter now! http://on.fb.me/N3KnNZ @Butlins Checked out the amazing (& free!) Butlins Augmented Reality app yet? Download today to experience the magic! http://ow.ly/bUR3d #ButlinsAR @FredOlsenCruise Balmoral makes two maiden calls on a Baltic cruise http://bit.ly/ML3sK8 @BedsonlineUK The Olympics are upon us!

Bedsonline has incredible deals on London hotels.

Hurry, they are filling quicker than you can say Usain Bolt! @ACEtweeting Did you know that ACE has been launching new modules to the ACE Academy? Keep up to date and keep learning at http://www.cruiseexperts. org

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

NEW LOOK FOR NEWMARKET... Newmarket Holidays has revealed a new brand identity, featuring a revised company logo in blue and green, together with the accompanying strap-line ‘Crafted with Care’. The launch has been unveiled ahead of the operator's 30th anniversary next year. Pictured showcasing the new brand are, from the left, company owners Simon Hibbs, Toni Frei and Jeremy Griffin with some of the travel agency sales team.

‘The ONE’ ticket from Attraction World includes Legoland Florida FOR A limited period, Attraction World's 'The ONE' theme park pass in Florida will offer 14 days' unlimited admission to LEGOLAND Florida - at no additional cost plus free transport to and from the park. The pass is an ideal choice for agents looking for theme park ticket addons as it includes unlimited admission to all the key parks for one price, including Walt Disney World Resort Florida, Universal Orlando and the SeaWorld Theme Parks. Prices lead in at £465 per adult and £427 per child and the offer runs until the end of this month.

For details see www.attractionworld.com or call 0871-700 8888.

Agents can earn 15% commission on Acceptance Action Training holidays in France CHARTERED PSYCHOLOGIST Graham W Price is hosting six exclusive Acceptance Action Training (and Sailing) holidays in the South of France this summer.

The holidays are aimed at guests looking to eliminate stress, procrastination, worry and fear, as well as improve relationships and develop intuition.

The holiday combines days of training and sailing on Graham’s 50ft yacht, with a maximum group of seven attendees.

This summer’s dates are August 16-22, September 20-26 and October 7-13 and commission for agents is 15%.

Prices start at £975 for a single room and £695 per person in a double room. Transfers, training, training materials, sailing, accommodation, food and wine are all included.

For more information see: http://abicord.com/port-grimaud/

Leger Holidays highlights last minute availability on summer tours FOR BRITS looking to escape the crowds this summer over the Olympic period, Leger Holidays is highlighting late availability on tours coinciding with the sporting schedule, to take in the highlights of Europe.

From nine days taking in Barcelona and the coastal resorts of the Costa Brava, or the scenery of the Italian Lakes, to a week spent in the mountain Principality of Andorra.

As an example, a nine-day Highlights of the Costas and Barcelona leads in at £729 per person and departs on August 4. Based on the Costa del Maresme, in the Mediterranean resort of Calella, the holiday is ideally situated to explore the region of Catalonia. The tour includes excursions to Barcelona,

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the medieval towns of Girona and Besalu and the coastal resorts and villages of the Costa Brava. The price includes eight nights’ breakfast accommodation and six evening meals, travel by luxury Silver Service coach, porterage at all hotels and on-board entertainment, free local joining points and excursions to Barcelona, Girona and Besalu and the Costa Brava.

Optional excursions to the 9th century monastery at Montserrat, Catalan Country and a guided tour of Barcelona are also available.

For more information visit www.legerbreaks.info or call 0844-504 6250.

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newsbulletin Advantage announces second Cruise Champions Conference THE SECOND annual Advantage Cruise Champions Conference will take place on October 2 at the Portland by Thistle Hotel in Manchester.

Sponsored by Royal Caribbean International, Hurtigruten and Silversea, the one-day event is expected to attract around 100 delegates and will provide frontline cruise consultant members with the opportunity to hear about market trends, share best practice, meet Advantage’s cruise line partners and discover more about all sectors of the cruise industry.

An afternoon speed dating session offers the chance to speak to cruise line partners and gain a greater understanding of their product.

Advantage members who would like to attend the conference which takes place from 09:30-17:00 should email Claire Brighton at claireb@advantagetravelcentres.com

ROCKIN' IT...Superbreak recently treated agents to a night out at We Will Rock You in London. Pictured looking forward to seeing the show are, from the left: Darrell Toakley, owner of Darrell James Travel; Leonie Gilbertson from Superbreak; and Carly Charteris, brand development manager at Global Travel Group.

Belleair issues winter 2012/13 programme

Avro Flights & MTO host agent events

BELLEAIR HOLIDAYS has launched its early bird winter 2012/13 programme, available online, on viewdata and on the phone.

It features a selection of the operator's most popular properties, along with discounts and added value deals to a selection of Malta’s most popular hotels and resorts.

Early bookers can take advantage of savings of up to £402.50 when booking a stay of more than 34 nights at the Djar Ta Menza farmhouses, offering a saving of £945 per couple.

As an example of prices, seven nights at the Maritim Antonine costs from £289 per person and includes breakfast accommodation based on two sharing, flights, transfers and entrance to a Malta attraction.

The offer is based on departure dates between December 10-16.

For more information or to make a booking visit www.belleair.co.uk or call 0845-365 3412.

AVRO FLIGHTS and the Munich Tourist Office are hosting a series of events around the UK on July 24 to celebrate the launch of the new Monarch flights to Munich.

Agents will be able to learn more about the city of Munich, Bavaria and Tirol areas as well as the new flights, which are bookable through Avro.

The new flight programme is due to start on September 21 from

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IPAD USERS can now enjo y fast and easy access to Kuoni’s ra nge of brochures, vi deos, travel article feeds and W ebsite with th e operator's ne w app, availa ble to download fr om Apple’s app store for free.

The app is au tomatically kept up to date with th e company's full range of brochure s, which once downloaded can be read anytime, even when th e user is no t connected to the internet . Updates to previously downloaded brochures ar e flagged fo r the customer’s convenience, and in addition the app checks for new brochures ea ch time it is started.

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Luton, Manchester and Birmingham.

Agents attending the events will have the chance of entering a prize draw to win flight tickets to Munich as well as sampling some German hospitality.

The events will take place in Leeds, Manchester, Birmingham and London.

For more information or to request an invitation email Zoe at zfrancis@cosmos.co.uk

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newsbulletin VSOE embarks on new rail voyages THE VENICE SimplonOrient-Express (VSOE) will embark on a series of new scheduled rail voyages including Scandinavia in 2013 and visiting Stockholm for the first time. Next year will see the VSOE make its debut to Scandinavia on a two-night rail voyage from Venice to Stockholm, via an overnight stop in Copenhagen. Departing Venice on April 8, 2013, the train will travel through Italy, Austria, Switzerland and Germany before heading via Copenhagen to Stockholm. It will make its return journey, departing Stockholm on April 12 for Venice, again via an overnight stop in Copenhagen.

For details call 0845-077 2222 or see www.vsoe.com

USAirtours launches million dollar promotion for Orlando bookings USAIRTOURS IS 30 years old this year and to celebrate, the company has launched its biggest promotion to Orlando.

Every family booking to Orlando made by September 30 and departing next year will receive a pre-paid Visa credit card pre-loaded with $250 that can be used anywhere in Orlando.

The company plans to attract 4,000 bookings and has allocated a million dollars to give away to customers as spending money when they book a family holiday.

Agents will receive posters to display in their stores or homeworkers can download PDFs from the company's Website which they can forward on to their client database. To qualify, bookings must consist of at least two adults and two children for a hotel stay of least 14 days, include a inclusive full sized rental car and Disney Ultimate Attractions tickets.

For more information visit www.usairtours.co.uk/milliondollar agent

Florida Keys, Orlando

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HE FINAL countdown to London 2012 is now well and truly underway with the Olympics due to start in a couple of weeks closely followed by the Paralympics.

You don't have to be a sports fan to feel the excitement, anticipation and pride of the home country hosting these prestigious events.

I know many of you will disagree with me but I really like BA's current TV advert and think that it really captures that excitement. If you haven't already done so, go to BA's website and as if by magic you can "take the plane down your street". Very impressive!

On the subject of magic, have any of you been on the “Harry Potter Studio Tour” that recently opened in Hertfordshire? I went along just after Easter, soon after it opened and although I’ve never read any of the books and had only watched the first film on DVD the night before I went, I thoroughly enjoyed my visit.

All of the eight films were made here at the studios located at Leavesden, near Watford. We went by car but if you don’t want to drive, you can take the train from Euston to Watford Junction which only takes about 20 minutes.

From there, special Harry Potter-themed double-deckers are waiting to take you to the studios.

On the tour you really discover the behind the scenes magic and see original sets, props, costumes and animatronics, that brought these amazing films to life.

Every set is accompanied by a short explanation of how it was created which I found really interesting.

The final showstopper is the model of Hogwarts Castle which is breathtaking in its detail and scale – it is the size of a house. It was worth going just to see the children’s faces when they first saw this.

A couple of tips - don’t miss the broom cupboard that served as Harry's bedroom, which is set up in the queuing area and unless you want to leave seriously out of pocket try to avoid the gift shop! Tickets must be pre-booked and you can expect to spend around three hours on the tour.

I’m off on holiday tomorrow but will be back in time for the Olympics. Whether you have tickets for the events, are acting as volunteer hosts or just watching on TV, I hope you all enjoy cheering on our Olympic competitors and have a great and memorable time.

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SWITZERLAND’S HOLIDAY region, Graubünden, has launched an ‘Exclusively Pure’ campaign to highlight the destination’s rich nature and landscapes, adventure activities and diversity of accommodation options.

For details see www.pure.graubunden.com ANZCRO (UK), specialists to Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific, is urging agents to encourage travel to the South Pacific given the cheaper low season airfares, as well as a range of holiday offers. As an example, on Denarau Island in Fiji, guests booking a five-night stay at the Sheraton Fiji are offered an extra night's stay for free.

The offer includes breakfast and applies to bookings made by September 21.

Call 01872-266899 or email sales@anzcro.co.uk TABER HOLIDAYS has joined AITO. The operator's portfolio features summer and winter Northern Lights breaks, active and wildlife holidays, city breaks and classic sightseeing trips. They also feature both selfguided and escorted tours and a range of accommodation options.

EXPEDIA HAS announced its Insiders’ Select programme 2012, an informative list of top worldwide hotels which it claims should be a benchmark for hotels and the travel industry to aim for. Approximately 80% of the hotels on this year’s list are new, including UK hotels in the top 100.

See www.expedia.com/insidersselect

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WEBSCLUSIVES ●

Agents can win a 7 nights cruise for two, full-board, courtesy of MSC Cruises’ competition on www.travelbulletin.co.uk . To enter, all you have to do is answer one simple question. Go to www.travelbulletin.co.uk/competitions

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Exclusive offer for travel trade: Stay at the luxurious Dusit Thani, Maldives for a discounted rate of USD300 per room. For more info, email: resmaldives@dusit.com

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Don’t forget, you can still view Travel Bulletin’s All About Cruising supplement in digital format at www.travelbulletin.co.uk.

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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USAIRTOURS IS giving agents the chance to win one of four places on an Orlando fam later this year when they make a 2013 Orlando booking for clients this month.

For details visit www.usairtours.co.uk CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT has launched a ‘Feeling Lucky 2012’ travel agent incentive programme, which gives agents the chance to earn chips and win prizes for bookings at Caesars Entertainment resorts when registering bookings at any of its resorts until September 30. Agents who log on to www.caesarstravelagents.com to register their bookings under the promotions tab will earn one chip for each room night booked at any resort.

Chips are accrued throughout the 90-day promotion and redeemable for prizes, which include show tickets, two-night and four-night hotel accommodation, dinners for two, diamond-level Total Rewards status and show tickets to The Colosseum. Prizes can be redeemed between October 1 and December 31 and each agent can redeem up to two prizes.

Agents who log on to the Website can also enrol in courses to become a Caesars Las Vegas specialist. Upon completion of the academy, agents will receive an official graduate certificate, a Caesars Las Vegas specialist logo and two tickets to a show at a Caesars Entertainment resort, excluding shows at The Colosseum.

SERVING UP... a treat of a selection of wine to Rebecca Ruddy (left) and Daniel Sykes of Unwind Worldwide in London, as part of its ‘Are you being served’ incentive, is Sue Copper from Journeys of Distinction. The agency, part of the Hayes Travel Group, received a selection of red, white and rose wines in recognition of their sales with the operator.

For details see www.jod.uk.com/travelagents

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Agent offers TUI UK has launched five new online training modules for third party retail agents, extending the current offering to ten individually designed programmes focussing on key Thomson and First Choice’s areas.

As an incentive, the company is offering agents who successfully complete the new modules in the first two months, the opportunity to be entered into two prize draws to win an iPad3 or Love2Shop vouchers.

At the end of August, the team will place the names of the first 100 agents to pass all modules into a prize draw to win one of five £50 Love2shop vouchers, and all agents who complete the modules will be entered to win an Apple iPad3.

Access to the new training is at www.tui-learning.co.uk ENCOUNTERS TRAVEL is offering 30% commission on seven Moroccan Mosaic Trips, valid on all bookings from September 8 until November 30.

Starting in Marrakech, the eight-day tour provides an introduction to the sights and sounds of Morocco, travelling through the Atlas Mountains and exploring the Sahara desert. There is also the opportunity to win a tour for two with a choice of four different departures in September or October 2012.

For details see www.encounterstravel.com

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opinionbulletin

W-AITO-Go!

by TED WAKE Deputy chairman, AITO Specialist Travel Agents and director, Kirker Holidays

It’s game on for travel agents as no frills airlines make it increasingly complicated to book online S I was searching for inspiration for a topic to write about in this week’s column, there it was – the dream headline in The Times newspaper: “Ryanair has wings clipped over hidden card charges”… Whilst the battlehardened Mr O’Leary is unlikely to lose much sleep over the threat of High Court action or the attentions of the OFT, it is good to know that the regulatory bodies are not ignoring the shoddy way in which a number of no frills airlines treat their customers. Better still that the consumer press consider the subject of ‘rip off charges imposed by low cost carriers’ to be worthy of coverage – too often issues which are important to those of us within the industry, seem to attract little interest in the consumer press.

In the current challenging market, we need all the help we can get to encourage clients to book, and any attempt by the press to remind consumers how disagreeable the DIY booking process becomes, the greater the opportunities for us all to win business from clients who are fed up with the degrading and tortuous online booking process. Simply by volunteering to handle the booking and take full responsibility for the process we are able to add value to the client’s holiday experience long before their holiday has started.

In my own experience, flight bookings are usually dealt with late at night after a long day in the office, shortly after the long suffering Mrs Wake has confirmed that the dinner, is indeed, in the dog… This cheery state of affairs was exacerbated when I am reminded that I have still not yet confirmed the flights for our autumn short break to Italy with the Wakelets. Having finally resolved to complete the booking before I head off to bed, I start the hateful process that involves endless clicks with the weary mouse as I wade through pages on the airline’s website where each successive screen heralds yet another extra charge for services such as pre-booked seats (no guarantees), priority boarding (subject to availability), checked-in bags (will they ever arrive?), airport check-in, etc…. as well as insurance, car hire, transfers, hotel accommodation and the dreaded credit card fee. I don't know how you feel about it, but by the time I get to the end of the decidedly ‘no thrills’ process I am past caring about what card fees they will slap on to the total cost – and by this stage there is also a ‘fear factor’ as you start to worry that you will lose the connection and the process of snakes & ladders starts all over again.

Do you remember when the holiday buying process used to be fun? It involved travel agents with charming consultants who wanted to spend time with clients looking through glossy

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photographs and the promise of a dream holiday. Tour operators and agents were the source of all knowledge – and took pride in providing consumers the opportunity to speak to people about their holiday aspirations. Of course there are some great agents running successful businesses who still take great pride in offering superlative service – but the client can now do most of the research themselves – and they can book it too, without the need to seek help from an agent.

But do clients really enjoy doing things for themselves?

In many ways it is a relief that the DIY booking process is so tortuous, because an increasing number of clients have decided that the task of booking their own holiday is so miserable that they would prefer to delegate the process to others – this is especially true for clients at the ‘cash rich/time poor’ end of the spectrum. I sense that there is a new ‘Internet Fatigue’ syndrome developing that is not only about older clients who are fed up with booking their own holidays online, and it should give us all cause for optimism.

Agents and operators should use the consumer’s very real sense of frustration and launch a new campaign using the slogan: ‘Bored with booking online? Come and talk to an expert…real human beings inside’ Of course it is not that easy, and consumer spending is down and likely to remain depressed for some time. Clients need good value for money – but that does not mean that they want a ‘cheap’ holiday - they need great value and increasingly appreciate the benefits of delegating the booking process to expert agents. The longer that Ryanair and others continue to make the online booking process an unpleasant experience full of concealed extra charges, the better.

Discerning consumers appreciate that expert agents offer an excellent alternative – and can help to make the holiday booking process a much more positive experience. Now wouldn’t that be a wonderful trip down memory lane?

Good luck and happy selling.

To respond to any of Ted’s views email jill.sayles@travelbulletin.co.uk

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puzzlebulletin Travagrams

Su Doku Win a £50 Hotel Chocolat voucher in the travelbulletin Su Doku prize puzzle

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

Number: 073

Kew Yorn

A➠

B➠ Know as the big apple this city is so good they named it twice

C➠

Scenic Surprises

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:

This cruise will make you feel like royalty

Where Am I?

competition@travelbulletin.co.uk Closing date for entries is Thursday, July 19th. Solution and new puzzle will appear next week.

The winner for 29th June is Julie Turner, Luxury Holidays Abroad in Cambs.

June 29 Solution: A=7 B=3 C=1 D=8

Capital city located on the Tigris River

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

Across 1. Hotel chain (7) 4. Tour operator, Page & ___ (3)

Down 1. Superhero hanging by a thread at a cinema near you (6-3)

5. Newport is its county town, initially (3)

2. Picturesque Cornish resort (5)

6. Longest river in Europe (5)

3. Shows amusement, initially (3)

8. Largest county in the UK (9) 10. Airport serving Venice (5,4)

4. US port known as the Cruise Capital of the World (5)

13. Roadside accommodation (5)

6. Star sign (5)

15. Avignon airport code (3)

7. Italian mountain range (9)

16. Popular Regents Park attraction (3)

9. Capital of South Korea (5)

17. Lakes and Mountains specialist (7)

11. Call sign, sounds romantic (5) 12. Japanese city (5)

Number: 73

14. Sovereign is part of this travel group (3)

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For the solution to the Crossword, Where Am I? and Travagrams, please see page 28 July 13 2012

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cruisebulletin Cruising is

New Norway cruise for 2013 to view the Northern Lights from Fred. Olsen

Boudicca

by Paul Sharp, agency sales manager, The River Cruise Line.

ITH THE continuing growth of the UK cruise market, agents would not go far wrong by looking at one of the fastest growing sectors of this market which is river cruising. The potential, growth and commission making opportunities are huge, and with savvy agents becoming more aware of this lucrative cruise business it would be wise to bear in mind the following: ● Be aware of the river cruise calendar and key booking periods. Typically river cruise passengers book six months in advance of departure and are happy to pay full price as they know that availability onboard river cruise ships is limited (ships typically carry 100–150 passengers). River cruise lines are dictated by tidal conditions and work their sailing programme to reflect these changes in tides, and clever agents are timing the marketing and selling of these river cruise products to reflect this. ● River cruising is destination focussed as opposed to ocean cruising where the destination is often the ship itself. River cruising also offers passengers a lot more time in the port of call and allows them to really explore their destinations and get to know their fellow passengers on these small, intimate vessels. ● Underlining value for money: successfully selling a river cruise involves knowing about the ports of call and what passengers receive during their experience. At The River Cruise Line we sell cruises that involve local coach pick up and drop off, luggage handling, crossing onto the continent, port taxes, full board basis onboard, welcome drinks and cocktail party, nightly entertainment, along with the service of our cruise director and tours manager. Prices for a 12-day Cruise The Rhine to Switzerland start from £795pp and encompass some amazing ports of call along the Rhine. ● Product knowledge: as with every product, this is crucial to convince your loyal clients to part with their hardearned cash and book with you. River cruise operators offer support in the form training in branch, online (see our agent Website at www.sellingrivercruises.com) and fam trips onboard their ships. Agents should definitely register for the forthcoming ACE River Cruise Convention to be held in Amsterdam on the 18th and 19th November, as this is a unique opportunity to see a variety of ships up close and personal. ● Using databases: agents will be surprised at the number of clients they already have who would be a perfect switch sell to river cruising. Clients who like coaching holidays, city breaks, enjoy having something to do all the time and ocean cruise passengers who like the smaller ships are all ideal customers for river cruising.

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FOLLOWING DEMAND for its ‘In Search of the Northern Lights’ winter cruises, Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines has added a new Norwegian itinerary, giving guests more opportunities to see the ‘Aurora Borealis’, or ‘Northern Lights’.

The new 14-night cruise, D1304A, is on Boudicca and departs from Portsmouth on March 13, 2013.

The company's sales and marketing director, Nathan Philpot, said: “We took the decision to offer an extra cruise ‘In Search of the Northern Lights’ because it has really caught our guests’ imagination, and the demand has been enormous. We ran our first-ever cruise of this kind in February this year, and it was a great success; we will now be offering three winter cruises to Norway in early 2013, and I am confident that they will be equally popular."

Prices lead in at £1,599 per person, based on two adults sharing an inside, twin cabin, Grade ‘I’. The price includes all meals and entertainment on board plus port taxes.

For more information visit www.fredolsencruises.com or call 01473-742424.

Viking River Cruises returns to Switzerland VIKING RIVER Cruises has relaunched a 10-day route from Amsterdam to Lucerne, following customer demand for the cruise and stay itinerary to return.

The journey begins in Amsterdam and travels along the river Rhine, taking in highlights of Holland and Germany, before concluding in Switzerland.

Guests will explore the famous windmills at Kinderdijk, before continuing along the Rhine to the historical city of Cologne. Continuing through Germany and Switzerland, the cruise concludes with a two-night stay in Lucerne.

Viking Forseti, Viking Sun and Viking Helvetia will sail the route which relaunches in May 2013 and the company is offering a discount for bookings made this month of up to £1,000 per person for cruises departing May to October 2013.

For details call 020-8780 7995 or visit www.vikingrivercruises.co.uk

29-day Med cruise from Swan Hellenic SWAN HELLENIC is highlighting its 29-day Grand Mediterranean and Adriatic cruise on Minerva, with prices leading in at £3,382 per person, based on two sharing an inside cabin.

The cruise explores the highlights of the Mediterranean in the height of summer whilst visiting more than 20 different ports of call including La Coruna, Valletta and Kotor. More than 44 shore excursions are included in the price, as well as all meals and entertainment on board.

The cruise departs from Portsmouth and prices are based on an August 1 departure.

For more information or to book visit www.swanhellenic.com or call 0844-822 0679.

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pixmix JET2HOLIDAYS CELEBRATED its fifth birthday with a series of fun roadshow events in Glasgow, Manchester, Newcastle and Leeds. The events coincided with the launch of the operator’s summer 2013 brochure and a dedicated family brochure offering free child places, single parent discounts and free infants. Pictured is a selection of roadshow images of agents meeting the trade team and suppliers and discovering more about the company’s products…

RED ALERT…pictured getting ready to entertain and educate Glasgow attendees is the Jet2holidays trade team – from the left: Anna Kershaw , Gemma Walker, Nikki Porter, Alan Cross, Simon Marshall and Kieran Jackson.

IN POLE POSITION…getti ng ready for some fun in Manchester are the girls fro m Pole Travel in Manchester - from the lef t: Karen Manners, Jill Waite , Gemma Milne and Sam Taylor.

LEEDING BY EXAMPLE…pictur ed at the Leeds roadshow are The Holiday Shop’s Debra Barnsley and Nigel Barnsley. www.travelbulletin.co.uk

MANCHESTER MERRY…from the left are Kim Fazackerley, Andrea Kellar and Sharron Holt from Althams Travel in Ramsbottom .

SURPRISE SURPRISE…enjoying a game of Pass the Parcel at the Leeds roadshow are Angela Whitaker (left)and Fiona Cook from Thomas Cook, Leeds.

SEEING DOUBLE…looking forward to the Newcastle training session is Amanda Fodden (left) and Gemma Muirhead from Hays Travel, Chester Le Street.

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newsbulletin Funway Holidays celebrates The Amazing Spider-Man film release TO CELEBRATE the release of The Amazing Spider-Man film release, Funway Holidays has put together two special Spider-Man-themed packages to New York and Orlando and has recently launched a Florida brochure featuring Spiderman as its front cover, to coincide with the release of the film.

In New York, prices lead in at £589 per person, including flights with Virgin Atlantic and three nights at the three-star Wellington Hotel, based on a January 10, 2013 departure. For an extra £25 per person, guests can visit the exterior of Peter Parker's apartment in the Spiderman films on a New York TV and Movie Sites Tour.

In Orlando, prices cost from £599 per person, including flights with Virgin Atlantic and seven nights' accommodation at the three-star Coco Key Hotel & Water Resort, based on travel on November 19. Tickets for Universal Studios start from £99 per person, based on a Universal two-park Bonus Ticket.

For more information see www.funway4agents.co.uk or call 0844-557 0626.

New tour from Spanish Thyme Traveller THE SPANISH Thyme Traveller has launched a new tour, Get to know the Borgias, which is based around the infamous Borgias and takes guests to their home town and the surrounding areas to experience the real Spain and learn about some of its history.

Bookings are now being taken for September 9-14, 2328, October 21-26 and October 28-November 2. The tour does not run during the peak summer months due to the high temperatures.

Prices lead in at €1,350 per person, based on double occupancy, and includes transport including pick up from collection points, five nights' breakfast accommodation, four lunches, three dinners, a tour leader and local guides.

Commission to agents is 15% .

For more information visit www.thespanishthymetraveller.com

G Adventures announces new North America departures G ADVENTURES has announced additional departures on specific itineraries in its North American programme as a result of huge demand for its inaugural season this summer.

The programme covers natural wonders, famed national parks, cultural hotspots and iconic cities in the US and Canada.

Itineraries with new departure dates added include Sin, Surf and Sierras, an eight-day trip from Las Vegas to Los Angeles taking in the sights of the Pacific Coast Highway, Yosemite National Park, Vegas, Death Valley, Santa Barbara and LA. Prices lead in at £599 per person and new departures added are August 23, 30, September 6, 29 and October 13.

For details call 0844-272 2040 or see www.gadventures.com

All Leisure Holidays launches Mekong River Cruises with breaks in IndoChina UK TRAVELLERS are being offered the chance to cruise and visit some of the lesser known areas of South East Asia along the Mekong River with the launch of a new brand, Cruise Mekong, from All Leisure Holidays.

The company is offering a choice of Mekong river cruises in Laos, as well as tailor-made holiday options in Laos, Cambodia, Northern Thailand and Vietnam.

The operator launches the programme with three itineraries, which it will add to in the future. These include Mekong, Cambodia & Laos, which leads in at £2,399 for ten nights; Southern Laos & Cambodia, which costs from £2,699 for 11-nights; and Northern Thailand & Laos which costs from £3,999 for 15 nights. All itineraries include flights, breakfast accommodation in boutique style hotels and lodges, full-board on the cruises, transfers and all sightseeing with local guides as per the itineraries.

For details call 0844-880 0985 or visit www.cruisemekong.co.uk (Far East feature - page 24)

WEEKEND WINNER...Amanda Roper (centre) from Oyster Travel in Norwich won a weekend break to Edinburgh at an event held for 40 of Norfolk’s independent travel agents and consultants organised by TravelCube and Flybe. Pictured with Amanda at the De Vere Dunston Hall is Flybe's Paul Willoughby and Anna Barnes from TravelCube.

Mekong river cruise

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personalitybulletin

Joel Omari Henry The marketing executive - business development of the Antigua & Barbuda Tourism Authority – UK & Europe takes his own pillow & blanket when travelling and says the greatest pleasure in life is doing what others say you cannot do...

Who is your ideal travelling companion?

A person who doesn’t have any limits, is free spirited and fun. Somebody who likes to take on challenges and explore the world.

"The difference between a successful person and others is not a lack of strength, not a lack of knowledge, but rather a lack of will"

Where was your last work-related trip?

To Antigua in September 2011 where I took 16 tour operators and agents on an all-inclusive educational.

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

I’d like to be Will Smith. He always talks about following your dreams, goals and the law of attraction. People who have that ambition and believe they can do it are the reason why they succeed.

What three words would your friends use to describe you?

Good sense of humour, great personality and of course...gorgeous!

What have your travels taught you?

When I was younger and travelled to countries like Venezuela and North America, all I wanted to do was lie around on the beach or spend my time swimming. Whilst these are fun activities and much better when the weather is hot, it’s not something I couldn’t do in other countries around the world. I learnt to really embrace my experiences in every location and got the most out of it; don’t just do what you could do in pretty much any other destination.

What is the best advice you recall?

The greatest pleasure in life is doing what people say you cannot do.

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

People I care about - family and close friends.

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Career path ● ● ● ●

Caribbean Star Airliners (Antigua): Flight operations officer - 2004-2008 SDC Development (Antigua): Admin support assistant - 2008-2009 LIAT 1974 LTD (Antigua): Flight controller - 2009 Antigua & Barbuda Tourism Authority (UK): Marketing & business development executive 2009-present

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

My mother - she’s a natural born entrepreneur, literally built her life from her own sweat and tears. At a very young age she has worked harder than hard and did so much to provide a better life for me as her only child. All of which I dearly respect her for, and appreciate everything she’s done for me.

What is your motto in life?

The difference between a successful person and others is not a lack of strength, not a lack of knowledge, but rather a lack of will.

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

Time travel - I want to relive my best moments and take back all of the bad ones. Life's unpredictable. I know that without all the bad moments I wouldn't be who I am today but I often ask the question "what if?"

What item do you always take with you when travelling?

My own pillow and blanket - nothing beats being comfortable on a long-haul flight.

What’s your favorite movie of all time?

The Help - very inspirational.

What do you love about your job?

I enjoy the managerial aspects of the job, the ability to motivate people and my influence on decisions taken in the tourist office. I regard the opportunity given to me to represent Antigua and Barbuda as one that can only bear fruit for my twin island nation as my passion for the advancement in tourism is of the highest priority.

What's your favourite city and why?

Antigua - no place like home. It’s always a pleasure to be back home with close family, enjoying the beach, and drinking rum cocktails all day long.

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uk&ireland

The Wave Hotel

Butlins opens £25million Wave Hotel in Bognor Regis BUTLINS HAS launched its £25million Wave Hotel & Apartments - the company’s most significant investment since Sir Billy Butlin set up camp in 1936.

The new concept hotel, that was opened by celebrity mum of two and actress Angela Griffin this month, aims to unleash the child in everyone with a futuristic Games Port, DVD & Kindle library, walls that transform into 3D features with a special app, Wii consoles, iMacs, PS3s, iPod docks, inter-connecting rooms and cabin-style beds with built-in TVs. The new development in Bognor Regis features 29 self-catering apartments and 215 guest rooms.

Allan Lambert, the company’s head of retail sales, said: “British families are busier than ever, so we’re always looking at new and innovative ways to help families spend quality time together and create everlasting memories. We believe the free state-of-the-art features of the new Wave will do exactly that – there are surprises around every corner!

“Our research tells us that families want flexibility and

freedom whilst on holiday, so this guided our strategy to offer a mix of self-catered apartments and hotel rooms. The hotel has already received pre-booking sales worth more than £2million highlighting a surge in demand for high-spec, flexible accommodation.”

Prices at the property start from £295 for an Octopus room, based on two adults and two children (aged two–14 years) sharing on a room-only basis for three nights from Friday to Monday this month. The price includes access to a range of facilities including sports coaching, the funfair, Splash Waterworld and all live entertainment.

Meanwhile, agents can earn a £5 Love2Shop voucher for every Butlins, Haven and Warner Leisure Hotels booking made

by August 31. Every valid booking will be entered into a prize draw to win a Brainzy Bonus Box with five winners being picked randomly each week.

For details visit www.bourneleisuresales.co.uk or call 0845-070 4742.

Irish Ferries encourages agents to highlight value for money deals to clients THE WEAKNESS of the euro against sterling is one of the reasons for a ‘substantial’ increase in demand for Irish Ferries’ crossings to Dublin and Rosslare this summer according to the operator.

The company’s head of passenger sales, Declan Mescall, said: “As well as the benefits of sterling’s strength at the moment, UK holidaymakers are also well aware of the weakness of the Irish economy. Prices for accommodation, entertainment, eating out etc. have come down in order to tempt the domestic market to spend more and

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this means much better value for visitors too.

“The increased promotion in the UK

by Tourism Ireland on TV, radio and in the press is also helping with the upturn in business, together with our own very competitive fares which, for summer, lead in at just £109 for car and driver, one-way.”

For details visit www.irishferries.com or call 0871-730 0400.

Meanwhile, Irish Ferries Holidays is keen to highlight to agents the valuefor-money of a self-drive, self-catering holiday to Ireland where a family of two

adults and up to four children can have a week’s stay in peak season for a total of £550, or £92 per person, which includes ferry crossings for a car and passengers.

The price applies at the Spiddal Holiday Cottages in Co Galway – overlooking Galway Bay and the Aran Islands, for the week commencing August 25. For Saturday arrivals between mid-July and mid-August prices range between £775 and £903.

For more information see www.irishferries.com/holidays or call 0871-730 0400.

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uk&ireland Wightlink publishes Wight History Trail 2012 edition available for free download WIGHTLINK HAS published a new 2012 edition of the Wight History Trail, a guide to the Isle of Wight’s history and heritage.

The free 32-page illustrated booklet features a 32-stop tour that puts the spotlight on a colourful past that started in prehistoric times when dinosaurs roamed freely and extends through the centuries to the present day along a timeline that pinpoints all the most noteworthy events in the Island’s history.

Presented with a detailed map that traces a route right around the Isle of Wight and featuring all its historical highlights, the booklet tells the stories of the Island’s best-known attractions – among them Osborne House, Carisbrooke Castle and the Needles Battery – but will also introduce history enthusiasts to some of the best-kept secrets of Wight.

Events such as the Medieval Living History Village, when car loads full of enthusiasts from the Company of St Joseph converge on the Appuldurcombe estate in midsummer to re-enact costumed battles and victory parades

Savings of £100 on week’s New Forest break from Shorefield SHOREFIELD HOLIDAYS is highlighting savings of up to £100 on a week’s break in the New Forest between July 20 and August 23.

Up to four people can check in at a Bramshaw Caravan at Oakdene Forest Park for £545 (less than £20 per person per night) for a week.

The price includes seven nights’ accommodation and use of the 55-acre park’s facilities, including an indoor pool with a flume and an outdoor pool. The property is offering its new Go Active programme in conjunction with Hoseasons this year, offering more than 20 activities within the park grounds including archery, fencing, waterwalkerz or body-zorbing, with prices starting from £2 per session.

For more information see www.shorefield.co.uk or call 01590-648331.

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from the Middle Ages - are also included in the guide. So too are fossil hunts for dinosaur bones organised by Dinosaur Isle and summer events for families at Carisbrooke Castle with an historical twist and tours of Queen Victoria’s family home, Osborne House.

The company’s marketing manager, Kerry Jackson said: “Three years ago we launched the Wight History Trail and it has proved to be one Medieval Living History Village of our most successful guides, demonstrating the breadth of what the Isle of Wight has to offer and demonstrating how much there is of interest for lovers of history and heritage to discover here.

“Three years down the line, now seemed like the right time to update the booklet to reflect all the new initiatives launched in that time. For example, at Osborne House this summer, visitors can for the first time visit Queen Victoria’s private beach and that is likely to be a fantastic draw.”

Agents can download the guide from www.wightlink.co.uk/historytrail or by calling 0871-376 1000.

Superbreak adds five-star Coworth Park in Ascot AGENTS CAN now book the five-star Coworth Park hotel in Ascot, Berkshire through Superbreak following the addition of the property to the operator’s Luxury Breaks portfolio. Fully commissionable to agents, the hotel is a 17th century mansion and polo estate set in 240-acres of parkland on the borders of Windsor Great Park. The hotel features 70 rooms, a spa, three restaurants and ecofriendly facilities such as solar glazing, a willowburning biomass boiler to produce carbon-neutral energy, a recycling policy and an eco water-cooling system.

Prices start from £178.25 per person per night based on breakfast accommodation in a Stable Superior room.

For details see www.superbreak.com/agents or call 0871-221 3344.

Win a 2 night

Britannia Hotel Champagne Break Pontins Holidays are giving away a 2 night Champagne Break for 2 people, in each of our Summer Months June, July and August 2012*.

All you have to do to win is book as many Pontins Holidays for any date in 2012 between 1st of June up to the 31st August. Each month the top agent with the most revenue will be awarded the prize.

With 41 Britannia Hotels to choose from, this is a fantastic prize no matter what your location.

A monthly report will be run by Pontins to award the winner. Winners will be contacted directly by telephone and details posted on the Pontins website. *Subject to availability.

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uk&ireland Grand UK Holidays promotes new festive holidays & Christmas market tours MORE THAN 30% of the holidays in Grand UK Holidays’ latest brochure are new to the programme, and include options from the ‘Grand UK Gold’ upmarket coach tours range, new ‘Festive House Party’ holidays plus more options in the UK Christmas markets portfolio.

According to the operator, the new ‘Grand UK Gold’ tours have proven to be popular with customers and almost 90% of the overall programme was sold within the first six months of sale. The company expects a second

‘Grand UK Gold’ coach to be operating before the end of this year, with up to four coming into operation in 2013.

As well as the ‘Festive House Parties’, the operator’s 2012/13 festive/winter brochure also introduces a ‘Fete de Noue’ holiday in Jersey and a ‘Warner Festive Celebration’ holiday.

These new Yuletide options complement festive favourites, such as Turkey & Tinsel holidays, Christmas and New Year breaks and

escorted tours to UK Christmas markets.

New UK Christmas market holidays include ‘Festive Yorkshire Treats’, ‘Festive Chester & Snowdonia’ and ‘Severn Valley Festive Delights’.

As well as festive holidays, the brochure also features 14 new themed holidays in the UK and Ireland, including a ‘Torquay Rock!’

50s and 60s break, and ‘Blackpool Cabaret & the Singing City’.

For bookings call 01603-619933 or see www.grandukholidays.com

Uncover the capital's hidden gems with London Urban Adventures’ new day tours URBAN ADVENTURES has relaunched its range of 'day tours with a difference' in London.

From lifting a gold bar in the Bank of England to discovering an old operating theatre hidden for more than 100 years, London Urban Adventures offers an insight into the capital by going off the beaten track to see hidden gems as well as a few classic landmarks.

As examples, tours include East End Uncovered where visitors can discover where Banksy made his name and inspired other street artists to leave their mark, as well as where Shakespeare’s plays were first performed and modern

theatre began. Visits to one of the few circus schools in London, an East London market and a pub are also included.

A Cycle Hampton Court option offers the opportunity for guests to cycle a guided 12km riverside cycle along the Thames. Visiting Richmond Palace, guests will stop for refreshments at the Petersham Nurseries, cruise past the Palladian mansion of Marble Hill House and hear the tales of England's most haunted building at Ham House, before exploring Hampton Court Palace.

For more information visit www.londonurbanadventures.com or email info@londonurbanadventures.com

Giant’s Causeway Visitor Centre opens in Country Antrim THIS SUMMER, a new visitor centre will open at the Giant’s Causeway in Country Antrim, Ireland.

The centre has been designed to compliment its surroundings, and is built into the ground with two external walls on display. The centre is part of the National Trust’s £18.5million project to restore the headland, which includes enhanced trails.

For more information visit www.nationaltrust.co.uk

Haven unveils line-up of summer entertainment CINDERELLA, THE Ugly Sisters and Prince Charming along with Aladdin, Jasmine and the Evil Jafar are just some of the guests checking in to Haven parks this summer. Other exclusive summer entertainment includes Russian circus acts, All Star Wrestling and Soapstar to Popstar starring Sam Clarke from Neighbours and Leon Lopez from Hollyoaks, as well as character shows, comedy acts and live music from acts including Same Difference, Stavros Flatley, Chico and Sonia.

The company’s kids’ clubs are split into four age groups and activities range from orienteering, graffiti art, circus workshops and beach activities.

Free football coaching is also available on all parks and if guests purchase activity passes they can learn a new activity including archery, fencing, tennis, roller blading or Learn2Bike.

Summer holidays start from £269 for a three-night break at selected parks and on selected dates.

For more information see www.haven.com or call 0871-230 1900

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uk&ireland Great Little Breaks hits the High Street by teaming up with The Midcountries Co-op Travel GREAT LITTLE Breaks, the UK’s newest short breaks specialist which offers UK getaways with added extras and treats, has linked up with independent travel agent, The Midcounties Co-op Travel.

The company’s first trade partnership will see its range of escapes, including Great Little

Gourmet Breaks, Great Little Family Breaks, Great Little Explorer Breaks and Great Little City Breaks, sold in 42 High Street branches of Midcounties Co-op Travel and via its website.

The operator has agreed a deal to provide Midcounties with five exclusive ‘Best of British’ breaks each week with up to 70% discounts on packaged trips

including hotel accommodation, rail travel where appropriate, tickets to attractions and events, and added value, such as a gourmet dinner, a spa treatment, a bottle of fizz and a cream tea on arrival.

For more information visit www.greatlittlebreaks.com or call 0844-848 8488.

Go To Midtown campaign puts Central London in the spotlight A NEW tourist campaign called Go To Midtown, has launched in Central London, which aims to put Holborn, Bloomsbury, St Giles and the historic Inns of Court in the tourism spotlight and capitalise on the area’s cultural assets including the British Museum and London’s historic pubs.

The campaign will target both Londoners, including potential spend from employees at high net worth, businesses in the district like Google and Yahoo and visitors from further afield, with the two world class universities of LSE and UCL attracting affluent international students and visiting families, alongside destination tourists.

In addition to the straightforward economic benefit of increasing visitor spend in the area, InMidtown – the Business Improvement District heading up Go To Midtown – aims to attract further business migration to the area as local facilities flourish and grow.

CEO of the company, Tass Mavrogordato, said: “With

increased visitor numbers and spend to the area during evening and weekends, ‘Go To Midtown’ could stimulate a seven-day economy that would in turn encourage more high net worth businesses, world-class restaurants and hotels making the district an even better place to work and visit.

Bloomsbury is set to welcome tens of thousands of tourists and journalists during the London 2012 Games, providing an unprecedented opportunity to cement the area as the historical and cultural hub of London and remind the 170,000 workers in the district of the amazing attractions and nightlife on their doorstep.”

The hub of the campaign will be a permanent Go To Midtown visitor centre at 56 New Oxford Street, in the heart of Midtown. Supported by commercial partnerships with Heart FM and Time Out, Go To Midtown will offer local businesses and attractions free marketing under the umbrella brand.

For more information visit www.gotomidtown.co.uk

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redsea All-inclusive demand heats up for Red sea Holidays RED SEA Holidays reports strong summer sales, particularly for its allinclusive product, which is exclusively available through the operator.

The operator’s sales director, Jason Hilton, said: “All-inclusive packages currently account for almost 90% of our total business this summer.

“Our package holidays are truly ‘all-inclusive’, not only are all meals and drinks included, guests can enjoy five a la carte restaurants in some hotels all of which are included within the price.

“We also include a generous 20kg luggage allowance, return transfers, rep service and a guaranteed late check-out, all of which is fully commissionable to our trade partners.”

As an example of prices, seven nights at the Sunwing Waterworld in Makadi Bay, Egypt costs from £879 per person. The price, which is valid for departures next month, includes accommodation on an allinclusive basis in a Junior Suite plus flights from Gatwick.

The operator also offers a guaranteed child price of £419, available at all Red Sea Hotels on any date or duration.

For more information or to book see www.redseaholidays.co.uk or call 0845-072 2477.

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IN RESPONSE to demand, Anatolian Sky Holidays has added two new Red Sea resorts to its expanding programme in Egypt. The Maritim Jolie Ville Resort in Sharm el Sheikh offers a range of facilities on the seafront at Na’ama Bay, with prices from £815 per person for seven nights. The Sahara Sands Port Ghalib Resort is set on one of the world’s largest man-made salt water lagoons, with prices from £779 per person for seven nights. Prices include flights and half-board accommodation.

For details visit www.anatoliansky.co.uk or call 0844-273 3585.

Hoteliers slash rates to entice summer visitors OLYMPIC HOLIDAYS says that with hopes high that the recent Egyptian elections will usher in an era of new stability, the country's tourism industry has been taking steps to recover incoming business lost over the past 18 months.

The company's commercial director, Photis Lambrianides, said: "There hasn't been a better time to soak up the sun on Egypt's Red Sea Riviera. While the Red Sea resorts haven't been affected by what's been going on in Cairo, public perception abroad of the country as a whole has taken a hit and will take time to recover.

"People have stayed away, prompting hoteliers in Sharm el Sheikh, Hurghada and other resorts to offer better rates than ever in an effort to fill their hotels for the summer months.

"The standard of hotels in the Red Sea resorts is

undoubtedly high, from three-star level upwards, and those who go won't fail to be impressed when they see what they are getting for their money this year."

Lambrianides is resigned to summer bookings for Egypt being extremely late this year, as clients awaited the outcome of the elections before making a holiday commitment.

He said: "Taking everything into consideration, Egypt is not doing badly at all for us, though we are currently operating to the country at a somewhat lower level with reduced capacity.

"Hoteliers are being very supportive, helping to win back business lost over the past 18 months with a range of offers that we are able to pass on to our customers. People are looking at the exceptional value for money now on offer, with lots of great reductions and in particular for the large number of

five-star hotels in all the resorts.

"Clients are tending to book the bigger brand name resorts at the moment and great prices for the likes of the Savoy Sharm and the Hiltons have made a luxury Red Sea holiday much more affordable."

This summer the operator is featuring Red Sea holidays in Sharm el Sheikh, Hurghada, Nuweiba, Marsa Alam, Port Ghalib, Quseir, Makadi Bay, Soma Bay, El Gouna, Dahab, Taba and Taba Heights.

As an example of prices, a seven-night all-inclusive stay at the five-star Tropitel Naama Bay in Sharm el Sheikh costs £575 per person in September, based on two sharing a standard room. The price includes flights from Gatwick and transfers.

For more information or to book call 0844-499 4449 or visit www.olympicholidays.com

Seven-night family trip from £715 from Holiday Designers HOLIDAY DESIGNERS is offering a seven-night trip on a bed-and-breakfast basis at the fivestar Mövenpick Resort & Spa in El Gouna from £715 per person. Departing from Gatwick on July 27, the resort is located directly on the Red Sea and features an extensive beach frontage, a relaxing atmosphere and attractions for families with children.

The offer includes flights, airport tax, baggage & transfers and is based on two people sharing a standard room.

For more information visit www.holiday-designers.com or call 020-3384 0023.

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redsea Tailor-made itineraries for discerning clients prove popular for Mosaic Holidays MOSAIC HOLIDAYS reports that it has seen a spike in the number of enquiries for Egypt holidays, following the results of the recent Presidential election. Holiday levels over the year have been below expectations but this was down to so much uncertainty according to the operator.

The company’s managing director, Sabina Shaida, said: “We have seen a general slowdown in demand for Egypt over the last year, although our tailormade itineraries for the more discerning clientele have proved fairly robust. This is encouraging and we are hoping for a positive reaction now that the elections are over.”

The operator is promoting a selection of added value offers throughout Egypt, and says that the Red Sea still has plenty of flights from the UK which it actively promotes through its regional flights programme to Egypt’s Red Sea resorts. Some hotels have also reduced their rates by up to 40%, but it has taken them a long time to bring out offers and this has had a negative impact on tourism to the Red Sea. Shaida said: “We have been urging hotels for a long time to promote early and encourage consumers to return.

The Red Sea has always been resilient but this time has been seriously affected. However, offers have helped

and the Red Sea still represents unbeatable value.”

As an example of prices, a sevennight all-inclusive stay at the five-star Hilton Hurghada, departing between July 27 and August 10 from London or Manchester, costs from £819 per adult and £689 per child sharing and includes transfers.

Departures between August 11-25 from Cardiff, Bristol or Birmingham, staying seven nights at the five-star Hyatt Regency in Sharm el Sheikh on a bed-and-breakfast basis costs from £949 per adult and £749 per child sharing, and also includes transfers.

The company is also offering a dedicated family itinerary in its brochure which combines two nights in Cairo including all the main sites, with five nights in the Red Sea resort of Dahab. In Dahab the operator offers camel trekking, horse-riding, diving, glass bottom boats, dinner with the Bedouins and star gazing in the desert.

An October departure from Gatwick staying seven nights on a Family Adventure itinerary, which includes two nights at the five-star Le Meridien Pyramids Cairo plus five nights at the five-star Hilton Dahab, costs from £1,129 per adult and £799 per child.

The option includes visits to the Pyramids, Egyptian Museum, Khan El

Hilton, Dahab

Khalili Bazaar, a glass bottomed boat ride, camel ride, Bedouin Dinner and star gazing in the desert.

Meanwhile, the operator says that sales to Jordan’s Red Sea resorts of Aqaba and Tala Bay are showing positive booking trends, as people seek to combine sightseeing with rest and relaxation.

The operator is featuring twincentre holidays in Jordan including the Dead Sea and the Red Sea which are proving popular and features both combinations of Movenpick Hotels as well as Kempinski Hotels.

As an example of prices, savings of up to £400 per person are available on seven-night breakfast stays, with three nights at the Kempinski Ishtar Dead Sea and four nights at the Kempinski Aqaba, departing between August 1825 from Gatwick. Prices lead in at £1,149 per adult including transfers.

For details call 020-8574 4000 or visit www.mosaicholidays.co.uk

Hayes & Jarvis expands portfolio THE AVAILABILITY of value hotels at both budget and fivestar luxury level has led Hayes & Jarvis to review and expand its Red Sea portfolio.

With seven-night package prices starting from £739 per person, the budget-priced three-star all-inclusive Sol y Mar Sharks Bay, Sharm el Sheikh is featured in the company's Worldwide brochure for the first time. At the other end of the spectrum, the Savoy Resort, which costs from £759 per person for seven nights and the Ritz-Carlton, which costs from £919 for seven nights, come into the programme at luxury level.

The operator's head of product, Andrea Loddo, said: “It is great news

to be able to offer such a wide range of value properties in the Red Sea and hope this will boost demand for a destination that deserves to do better.

"Five-star resorts like the Savoy Resort are available at brilliant prices and it is really good news for agents that the Ritz-Carlton, one of the most exclusive properties in Sharm el Sheikh, is available at the kind of package prices currently available. With five pools and its own dive centre, we expect this resort to have a strong appeal to both couples and families.”

For more information call 0871-200 2211 or see www.hayesandjarvis.com/agents

The Ritz-Carlton, Sharm el Sheikh

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Sunwing Waterworld Makadi A brand new hotel designed to guarantee a fun-filled family holiday, Sunwing Waterworld Makadi Hotel is built around it’s own aqua park, with giant flumes, huge waterslide gantry, wave pool, and loads more ways to have fun in the water.

Combined with beachfront location, spacious family rooms and and a huge choice of all inclusive dining, it’s the ideal choice for all the family.

Child price guaranteed Any date, any duration.

All Inclusive

NOW OPEN

£419

Now available to book in the UK exclusively through Red Sea Holidays.

The Egyptian Experts

Call 0845 072 2477 ABTA No.Y2507

Visit: redseaholidays.co.uk/agent Child Price Guarantee: see brochure for details.

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redsea

ENCOUNTERS TRAVEL is featuring a Sands & Seas small group tour in Egypt, with prices from £549 per person. The itinerary offers a mix of culture and relaxation and takes in the main sights and pyramids in Cairo before heading south to explore Luxor and the temples of the Nile Valley. It then finishes with four nights relaxing by the Red Sea at Dahab. Available for weekly departures next month and in September, the price includes transfers, eight nights’ breakfast accommodation in four-star hotels, two nights on a sleeper train with breakfast and dinner and the services of a local tour leader. Flights are extra.

For details see www.encounterstravel.com or call 0800-088 6002.

Discover Egypt offers land & sea deals including 50% savings on Nile cruises DISCOVER EGYPT is promoting a range of offers to Egypt including a seven-night holiday that allows travellers to combine the ancient sites of Luxor, with some time on the shores of the Red Sea, plus up to 50% discount off Nile cruises for the second traveller up to April 2013.

The seven-night allinclusive deal offers two

nights at the Sofitel Karnak in Luxor and five nights at the Grand Plaza Hurghada, departing on September 10, and leads in at £699 per person.

Meanwhile, discounts of up to 50% are available for a second traveller on five-star Nile cruises until April 2013 on both the Viking Princess and Royal Viking. There are

various departure dates, with prices starting from £699 for the first traveller.

All cruises include flights from Gatwick, Heathrow or Manchester, full board cruise and transfers, plus ten guided excursions.

Highlights in Luxor include, the famous Valley of the King and Valley of the Queens, including the Temple

The Adventure Company adds family stargazing trip in Egypt THE ADVENTURE Company has launched a new range of astronomy trips exclusively for families.

The company has joined forces with its sister company, Explorers Astronomy Tours, to design a series of memorable family holidays that combine adventure activities by day and star-gazing by night in Egypt, Jordan, Iceland and Turkey.

An eight-day Sinai Desert & Stars tour costs from £1,119 per person or £589 excluding flights, and includes a desert jeep safari, sand-boarding and a snorkel safari over the coral reefs in the Red Sea, which is home to more than 1,200 species of colourful fish.

Also included is a night camping out under the stars and two nights of stargazing hosted by astronomy expert Dr John Mason.

The trip is designed for families with children aged 12 and above, with departures scheduled for next month and July 2013.

For more information visit www.adventurecompany.co.uk

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Snorkelling in the Red Sea

of Hatshepsut, plus the Temples of Karnak and Luxor.

Other sites on the journey down the Nile include the Colossi of Memnon, Esna and Edfu, Aswan and its High Dam, and the Temple of Philae.

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

All-inclusive Red Sea views from £789 from Thomas Cook THOMAS COOK is offering a seven-night, allinclusive getaway to the four-star Three Corners Ocean View Hotel in El Gouna from £789 per person.

Stretched along the Abu Tig Marina, the hotel offers waterfront lodging with swimming pools, a sandy sundeck and direct access to the Red Sea. Departing from Gatwick on July 27, the price includes flights, taxes and accommodation based on two adults sharing.

For details call 0844-412 5970 or see www.thomascook.com and www.elgouna.com

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fareast y c n e g r e m e n a f o The emergence is is r c y n a h it w l a e d plan by PATA to ORE

by PAUL SCUDAM

HE FAR East encompasses a vast area, as does the Pacific Area Travel Association (PATA) which nurtures the tourism interests of the countries of the region. But it has a problem – natural disasters. When there is an earthquake, tsunami, major flooding or typhoon to hit a destination, it also hits the international headlines, which then hits tourist bookings in a big way. And this is where PATA’s latest initiative comes into action.

In an attempt to counteract the short and long term negative effects of such natural disasters, and to help those areas affected to deal with a crisis, it has come up with the PATA Rapid Recovery Taskforce (PRRT), a global team that is in constant contact to discuss various strategies in the event of not only a natural disaster, but crises resulting from a terrorist attack, or economic and political upheaval.

Representing the European PRRT as European communicator is London-based Emma Cashmore of Axis Travel Marketing, who said: “Our vision is to collaborate better across all sectors in the speedy dissemination of accurate information on the status of an event, and in co-ordination with international tourism bodies to ensure the media and government travel advisories reflect accurate information on the status of any crisis.

T

“Our objectives are two-fold – to provide proactive training, and to provide reactive communication.”

She then lists ways in which the organisation can assist:

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Restore confidence in the destination as a safe and desirable place to visit.

●

Reduce negative economic impact for all tourism stakeholders in the destination.

●

Correct and strive to dispel inaccurate perceptions with realistic insights and observations.

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Provide assistance for the recovery of tourism traffic, both inbound and outbound.

●

Assist the tourism industry’s stakeholders at large in a destination in distress to hasten the recovery and lessen the destructive effects.

●

Pro-actively devise rapid response strategies for such contingencies.

PRRT chairman Bert Van Walbeek said: ”We have to learn to expect the unexpected and be prepared as much as is humanly possible to reduce the impacts of crises by being as pro-active as possible.

“One of the two main objectives of the PRRT is to provide pro-active training, and the other is to assist, if so desired, destinations and organisations with up-to-date and objective communication about a crisis.

“We have to realise that effective risk mitigation and crisis management offers business opportunities, and no one has any more excuse for not preparing and planning for the worse. After all, as

PRRT chairman Bert Van Walbeek

the Chinese saying goes, Crisis is the twin of opportunity.”

To accompany the whole effort, PATA has produced a 60-page paperback booklet called Bounce Back – a Tourism Risk, Crisis and Recovery Management Guide in association with its Preferred Partner, Travel Guard Chartis. The guide covers a whole range of subjects and checklists designed to help anyone deal with a crisis and minimise the effects on a business.

It defines a crisis as “an event or set of circumstances which can severely compromise or damage the marketability and reputation of a tourism business or an entire tourism destination region”.

Using such guidance could ultimately make the old saying “Crisis – what crisis?” ring true. ✦

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fareast THE COSMOPOLITAN Hotel in Hong Kong has introduced themed suites, including Sony’s 3D Entertainment Suites, OSIM Suites, Ocean Park Suite and AFONTANE Suites. As an example, the Ocean Park Suite (pictured) is tailored for families with young children and offers a selection of toys, ocean themed furniture and soft furnishings, cartoon programmes and a Wii. The package includes free Ocean Tickets and a kids’ box with a photo frame as a memory to take away.

For details see www.cosmopolitanhotel.com.hk

New Bangkok tours from Attraction World ATTRACTION WORLD has added four new tours in Bangkok, all of which are commissionable to agents.

They include Bangkok by bike, which costs £30 per person and allows visitors to cycle through backstreets, along waterways and into Bangkok's historic heart, meeting locals along the way.

A Chinatown and Night Markets option costs £28 and offers the chance to experience exotic Asia on a visit to the markets of Bangkok’s Chinatown, while a Temple and River of Kings costs £30, where guests can take a long tail boat down the Chao Phraya River plus a walking tour through Wat Pho. A Tuk Tuk experience is also featured in the operator's portfolio and costs £26. The tuk-tuk calls at Wat Po, then weaves through the streets to Phahurat Market to fill up on snacks in Little India.

Other visits include Wat Saket and climbing the 318 steps of the Golden Mount.

For more information see www.attractionworld.com or call 0871-700 8888.

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Mövenpick signs two new hotels in Vietnam and Philippines MÖVENPICK HOTELS & Resorts has announced that it is to manage two new hotels in Vietnam and the Philippines.

The new properties are the Mövenpick Resort & Spa, Quy Nhon, in Vietnam and Mövenpick Hotel Makati, Makati City, part of Metro Manila in the Philippines.

The company’s chief operating officer, Andreas Mattmüller, said: “We already operate seven hotels in Asia including two in Thailand, two in Vietnam and one each in the Philippines, India and Singapore, but the new properties will bring the number of hotels we have under development in Asia up to 18. Our vision is to operate 25 hotels in the region by 2015.”

The Vietnam property is scheduled to open at the end of 2015 and will feature 180 guestrooms, along with a spa, 600sq.m ballroom, boardrooms, a variety of restaurants, cafés and bars, extensive pools and tropical gardens, boat jetty, gym, wedding studio and wind power station.

The Philippines property is set to open in 2016 and will feature 304 guest rooms and suites as well as 250 residences.

In addition to a 300-seat all-day dining restaurant, the hotel will also offer Chinese and Japanese outlets, a panoramic rooftop venue and a bar with entertainment lounge.

For more information visit www.moevenpick-hotels.com

YTL Hotels unveils new all-inclusive concept in Malaysia YTL HOTELS has added the Signature Villas Retreat, an all-inclusive luxury spa option on the private island of Pangkor Laut Resort in Malaysia to its portfolio.

For a minimum stay of three nights, guests can relax in the exclusive over-water Sea and Spa Villas. The retreat includes breakfast accommodation, two-course lunches, dinner, selected complimentary activities and daily spa treatments. Guests are also able to enhance their stay with chargeable meal, spa and activity upgrades.

The offer is exclusively available for agents booking online for their clients for a minimum of three nights until July 31.

Package rates start from approximately £296 per room per night and travel must be taken by December 19.

For details see www.ytlhotels.com

Debut Beijing launch in 2013 for Rosewood Hotels & Resorts THE 279-ROOM Rosewood Beijing is scheduled to open next summer as the first China property for Rosewood Hotels & Resorts, spearheading its Asia expansion plans.

The hotel will be located in the central business Chaoyang District, opposite the CCTV Tower.

The property will offer landscaped

outdoor space including terraces, gardens and balconies integrated into the design of many of the restaurants, spa, recreational facilities, meeting and function areas.

Complimentary recreational facilities will include an indoor swimming pool, gym and yoga studio.

For more information visit www.rosewoodhotels.com

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fareast Amari highlights new Bangkok attractions and rates from £36 to entice visitors AMARI, WHICH offers six properties in Bangkok, is highlighting new attractions in the city to attract new visitors.

As examples, Asiatique, which has opened this year offers fine dining, shopping (more than 1,500 boutique stores) and colourful shows under one roof.

Alternatively, for a one-stop shopping experience, guests can take a trip to Mega Bangna, Asia’s newest super shopping location. Located in the Bang Na area of the city, the centre is an easy stopping off point for Suvarnabhumi International Airport.

Chocolate Ville is a new take on outdoor dining. Located North East of the city, the dining venue takes on a ‘chocolate box’ style of architecture, set within a small village and serves a range of international and Thai dishes.

Meanwhile, Bangkok suburb, Thonglor is firmly establishing itself as the place the young ‘IT’ Bangkok crowd head to. Still relatively new to international visitors, the variety of restaurants, shops and art in this area is now attracting a different audience. Not new, but still a well-kept secret is Agalico Gardens and Tearooms, an ideal location for a slice of cake and cup of tea. Other Thonglor favourites include Fat Gutz saloon, serving fish and chips, rum and whiskey, Roof by Muse and Blue Velvet.

Rates at Amari’s properties lead in at £36 per night, staying at Amari Don Muang Bangkok, which is located on Vibhavadi Rangsit Road. Rates exclude VAT and surcharges.

For more information visit www.amari.com

Accor maintains expansion momentum in upscale and economy segments in China ACCOR HAS announced that it has secured 31 new contracts, adding 6,572 new hotel rooms to the Greater China committed development pipeline since the beginning of this year.

The contracts include one Sofitel, nine Pullman, five Mei Jue (Grand Mercure), one Novotel, as well as 15 ibis projects.

The Pullman, Mei Jue and ibis hotel brands have experienced the strongest

demand so far this year, according to the company, and most of the new contracts are being established in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, which looks beyond the main cities in the country.

This includes hotels such as Pullman Zhoushan Seaview, a 22-storey hotel with sea views for all guest rooms to open in 2015.

Chairman and chief operating officer for hotel operator Asia-Pacific, Michael

Issenberg, said: “There is a sense of recalibration in the Chinese economy, resulting in the distribution of growth spreading to new economic centers and opening fresh opportunities for Accor.”

Meanwhile, figures from the China Tourist Hotels’ Association suggests that the hotel segment economy now accounts for 30% of the Chinese mainland’s hotel industry, and that further growth is expected.

2013/14 preview brochure from Collette includes new China tours COLLETTE WORLDWIDE Holidays has released its 2013/14 preview brochure which features 28 tours, including three China tours that are priced and ready to sell through to 2014.

China tours priced to 2014 include an Ancient China’s Wonders and Yangtze River tour which has been extended to 17 days and now includes additional nights in Beijing, Shanghai and Xian. New sightseeing tours are also included such as the Shanghai Museum, MagLev train ride, the Xian City Wall and Muslim Quarter and the Treasure Hall in the Forbidden City.

Prices lead in at £2,824 per person, including an early booking offer of £75 per person for bookings made by July 31.

A ten-day Highlights of China tour is also new and costs from £1,449 per person including an early booking offer of £75 if booked by July 31, while from May next year a Best of China option will be extended to 15 days and will include additional highlights such as Xian City Wall, Treasure Hall in the Forbidden City, Tian Zi Fang and the city of Guilin.

Prices start from £2,149 per person including an early booking offer of £75 per person if booked by July 31.

The Forbidden City

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July 13 2012

Hong Kong Airlines receives delivery of third Club Class Airbus HONG KONG Airlines has taken delivery of its third all Club Class Airbus A330-200 passenger aircraft to operate on its flagship London route.

The aircraft, which will be based at Gatwick, completes the fleet of new aircraft dedicated to the all Club Class route between London and Hong Kong, which launched in March this year.

Each aircraft is configured with 116 seats in an exclusive all Club Class offering Club Premier and Club Classic.

Yang Jian Hong, the carrier's president, said: "We recognise that for our business and premium leisure customers, reliability is paramount. Having a third aircraft dedicated to our flagship London route will help ensure we can continue to deliver an optimal level of performance.”

For more information or to book call 0844-371 8393 or visit www.hongkongairlines.com

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fareast Avis launches operations in Taiwan AVIS HAS launched operations in Taiwan, which will serve as a "one-stop" mobility solution for the Taiwan community through services that include short and long-term car rental (self-drive), personal or corporate car leasing, and chauffeur-drive/transfer services using a new fleet.

The company will operate in three locations in Taiwan that include two city locations and an airport location.

For more information, visit www.avis.com.

EVA launches Hello Kitty Speed Puff Jet to Tokyo, Hong Kong

HAYES & Jarvis’ new Far East brochure for 2013 introduces cultural tours to South Korea and Burma. The operator is also featuring more Vietnam beach resorts, which range from the popular Victoria Hotels in Mui Ne and Hoi An to the new Fusion Maya on the beach at Da Nang (pictured) and the new Centara property on the Island of Phu Quoc.

The company's Bali programme has also been strengthened on the west coast with the addition of the luxury Legian and Jimbaran Puri Bali resorts. Meanwhile, the company is featuring a range of exclusive hotels in Thailand; two new resorts in Krabi and Khao Lak - Beyond Resort Krabi, where five-night packages start from £1,299 per person and Beyond Resort Khao Lak, where five nights lead in at £1,219.

EVA AIR launched its new Hello Kitty Speed Puff Jet from Taipei to Tokyo last month and then deployed it on an evening flight to Hong Kong.

The airline is now operating its Hello Kitty Speed Puff Jet on regularly scheduled flights to Tokyo in the mornings and Hong Kong in the evenings.

The carrier has created a dedicated Hello Kitty Jet Website at http://evakitty.evaair.com and booking and schedule information for all flights worldwide is available at www.evaair.com

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fareast We asked our staff the following question this week: Who would you most like to be seated with on an aeroplane?

Publisher: Jeanette Ratcliffe jeanette.ratcliffe@travelbulletin.co.uk Jude Law for obvious reasons

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Assistant Editor: Jill Sayles jill.sayles@travelbulletin.co.uk Michael Fassbender all the way to Australia

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Subscriptions are £105 p.a. for tour operators and others, plus additional ABTA, IATA copies.

INTREPID TRAVEL reports that Vietnam continues to be its top-seller for adventure travel. Last year the operator's ten-day Vietnam Express Southbound tour - which travels from Hanoi and Halong Bay in the north to Ho Chi Minh City in the south - was its best-selling tour worldwide and this year the company has so far sold more tours in Vietnam than in any other country. The Vietnam Southbound Express trip costs from £695 for ten days, excluding flights.

For details see www.intrepidtravel.com

Adventures Abroad runs group tours to North Korea ADVENTURES ABROAD Worldwide Travel has launched a new series of tours to North Korea, a first for the company, which celebrates its 25th anniversary this year.

With an emphasis on in-depth cultural immersion, the operator's 350plus inclusive tours across 120 countries combine time spent at popular, ‘must-see’ highlights of destinations with opportunity to experience their culture and nature.

For more information see www.adventures-abroad.com

Centara aims for fast expansion in Pattaya CENTARA HOTELS & Resorts is maintaining a strategy of fast expansion in Pattaya, with three properties currently open and another four in the development phase.

The company's chairman of the Executive Board, Central Plaza Hotel, Suthikiati Chirathivat, said: "Our association with Pattaya goes back a long time, as we for many years owned and operated the Central Wong Amat Beach Resort, in North Pattaya.

“When we decided to close that hotel and redevelop the site as the Centara Grand Mirage, we were very much aware that with our theme hotel concept we were attempting something that had never been done before in Pattaya, or indeed in Thailand. Centara Grand Mirage opened in late 2009, and its success has been nothing short of spectacular. This has been immensely encouraging, and we now regard Pattaya as being one of the key regions for our growth strategy.”

For more information visit www.centarahotelsresorts.com

puzzlesolutions Crossword: Across: 1. SOFITEL, 4. MOY, 5. IOW, 6. VOLGA, 8. YORKSHIRE, 10. MARCO POLO, 13. MOTEL, 15. AVN, 16. ZOO, 17.

INGHAMS. Down: 1. SPIDER-MAN, 2. FOWEY, 3. LOL, 4. MIAMI, 6. VIRGO, 7. APENNINES, 9. SEOUL, 11. ROMEO, 12. OSAKA, 14. TUI.

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Where Am I?: Baghdad

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July 13 2012

(bottom) Princess Cruises

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