Travel Bulletin 31st January 2014 by Alain Charles Publishing

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January 31 2014 | ISSUE NO 1,858 | www.travelbulletin.co.uk

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All About the

Inspirational facts to entice your clients to travel

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Your one-sto p guide to all the late st news and dev in the Indian

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this week news 3 research reveals Brits will spend ÂŁ2K on holidays this year

bulletin briefing why agents can't afford to ignore the growing importance of mobile

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embratur unveils major events that showcase destination's diversity

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holiday parks new park launches plus the latest offers & investments

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AFRICAN ADVENTURE....Tsessabe took a group of agents and operators on a fam trip to East Africa in conjunction with The Zanzibar Collection and Selous Riverside Safari Camp. Highlights included visits to Selous Riverside Safari Camp and The Zanzibar Colleciton in Tanzania. Pictured having fun in the sun are, from the left: (front row) Jen Atkins, Pure Zanzibar; Yvonne Mitchell, Personal Africa; Micky Robinson, Black Tomato; Cathy Bohan and Maxine Brown, Kuoni; Barbara Clark, TUI Specialist/Hayes and Jarvis; Anna McKenzie, Imagine Africa; Rebecca Ward, Exsosphere; Lucy Garbutt, World Odyssey; Stephanie Rock, TUI Specialist/Hayes and Jarvis; and Candice Buchan, Rainbow Tours; with (back row): Tessa Bott, Tsessabe; Gareth James, Audley Travel; Will Hawkings, Byass Tsessabe; Peter Tait, Karifu Travel; and Alisdair Garbutt, partner of Lucy Garbutt.

Cover Pictures: Main - Bled island, Slovenia Tourist Board

Inset - Manaus, Embratur

This Week 3

news

notes from normanton

agent bulletin

puzzle bulletin

bulletin briefing

slovenia

australasia

brazil

holiday parks

research predicts Brits will spend £2K on holidays in 2014 as confidence rises

find out what Sandy has been up to lately

the latest agent booking incentives & training updates

play Su Doku for a chance to win a £50 M&S voucher

why agents can't afford to ignore the growing importance of mobile

tourist board highlights ten facts to inspire your clients to travel

operators & airlines add new itineraries & routes in response to demand

Embratur unveils major events that showcase destination's diversity

new park launches plus the latest offers & investments

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Research reveals Brits will spend £2k on holidays this year as confidence rises NEW RESEARCH released by ecommerce partner Webloyalty has revealed that this year will see increased confidence in the UK’s leisure spending compared to last year, with 85% of British holidaymakers planning to spend either the same or more on their holidays as they did in 2013. The study, compiled by retail and leisure research specialists Conlumino, suggests an optimistic outlook for spending in the area of travel and tourism over the course of 2014, with 68% of people planning to take some sort of holiday this year and the average holidaymaker planning to spend approximately £2,000. Holidaymakers are feeling more confident than last year about spending on their breaks: while the cautious sentiment of 2013’s holiday habits saw a large number of people choosing to holiday in the UK instead of going abroad in order to save money, the findings of the study signal an increase this year in travelling to different countries for holidays, in place of ‘staycations’ and UK day trips. Other findings revealed that 24.2% of people took a beach holiday abroad last year – but 26.2% plan on taking one this year, an increase of 2%, and that 15.9% took city breaks abroad in 2013 – but 17.2% will be doing so this year, an increase of 1.3%. Meanwhile, UK-based holidays are on the decrease. Although 24.5% of people opted for UK day trips last year only 20.3% will be taking them in 2014 – a decrease of 4.2%. And while 19.8% of respondents took a ‘staycation’ in 2013, just 16.9% plan on doing so this year – a decrease of 2.9%. Brits are divided, however, on how to space their holidays out across the year. A small majority of 55.8% prefer to take several short breaks through the year, while the remaining 44.2% will opt for one long two-week break in the summer. Flights and hotels are some of the items on which people intend to spend more this year – 27.3% say they will spend more on travel and 21.6% say they will spend more on accommodation. Other areas such as clothing, gifts and souvenirs will see less increase in spending, with fewer than one in ten people planning to splash out more on them.

Travel 2 expands product in Simply Luxury brochure FOLLOWING AN increase in demand, Travel 2 has expanded its Caribbean portfolio in its Simply Luxury brochure. The operator has added additional hotels in most of the current featured destinations including Coral Reef in Barbados, Anse Chastanet in St Lucia, Curtain Bluff in Antigua and Viceroy Riviera Maya and Paradisus Esmeralda, both on the Mexican Riviera Maya. Kev Coles, the company's product manager, said: “We have seen significant growth in the Caribbean, particularly in Barbados and St Lucia and we expect that to continue this year. We are also seeing huge growth in the other islands such as Antigua and Jamaica with a big increase in bookings to Sandals, Beaches and Grand Pineapple as we now feature all their hotels and room types with the most up to date offers.” For more information visit www.travel2.com

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newsbulletin Virgin Holidays Cruises unveils results of etiquette survey

WINTER WIN...Pictured is the latest winner of the Winter Wonders of Bourne Campaign, Emmily Philpot from Thomson in Essex. Emmily picked up a goody box which also contained a bonus token which she used to bag herself an iPod shuffle. The incentive, which runs until February 9, gives agents the chance to win a goody box when they make an online booking for a minimum of three nights for any Butlins, Haven or Warner Leisure Hotels break.

A RECENT survey conducted by Virgin Holidays Cruises of more than 1,000 British holidaymakers revealed what they would like to do on a cruise, especially in relation to etiquette. The results of the survey revealed how helpful passengers would be when in a dangerous situation – 25% of women surveyed thought it was not acceptable for women and children to be evacuated first in the case of an emergency and 72% of people believe it is unacceptable to wear a swimming costume around all areas of the ship during the day. Other findings revealed that 24% of passengers believe it is acceptable to wear shorts to dinner, 22% of people would consider losing their child on deck for some ‘alone time’ and 26% would want Jamie Oliver to prepare all their meals. The company has created posters that could feature on its ships to help make having a good time on board less of a hassle. The posters give passengers general pointers about what they need with them on certain parts of the ship, what they should and shouldn’t do and how to stay safe.

Norwegian Cruise Lines opens summer and year-round 2015 itineraries NORWEGIAN CRUISE Line (NCL) has announced the launch of its 2015 summer and year-round cruises. The deployment includes the line’s newest ship, Norwegian Getaway, sailing to the Caribbean from her year-round homeport of Miami. The company continues to offer three ships in Alaska, four in Europe and two in Bermuda, as well as a variety of Canada and New England, Bahamas and Florida itineraries. Hawaiian cruises will also run year-round on Pride of America from Honolulu and

short Bahamas itineraries from Miami year-round on Norwegian Sky. Kevin Sheehan, the line's CEO, said: “We will continue to offer a variety of exciting cruises for our guests to choose from in 2015. Back by popular demand, guests can continue to experience the best of Europe on a choice of four beautiful ships, cruise Alaska on some of the youngest ships in the industry and experience the innovations and entertainment on the ship that brings the best of NYC to sea, Norwegian Breakaway,

and Miami’s ultimate ship, Norwegian Getaway.” Examples of itineraries include a nine-night fly/cruise on Norwegian Getaway which sails from Miami to the Eastern Caribbean every Saturday. Ports of call include Tortola (the British Virgin Islands), St. Thomas (US Virgin Islands) and Nassau, (Bahamas). Alternatively, Norwegian Gem will sail from New York City on nine-night Bahamas and Florida fly/cruises between April 25 and September 5. The familyfriendly itinerary includes a

stop in Orlando and its beaches (Port Canaveral), Florida and also features Nickelodeon programming on board. On May 30 and June 13, the ship will sail ten-night Bahamas and Florida fly/cruise sailings that feature an additional sea day as well as additional time in Orlando. Spring of next year will also see a variety of repositioning cruises including Caribbean repositioning, transatlantic cruises, Pacific Coastal itineraries and a variety of Panama Canal voyages. To book call 0845-201 8900 or visit www.ncl.co.uk

Jet2.com & Jet2holidays reveal key trends in ‘What’s Hot’ 2014 report JET2HOLIDAYS AND Jet2.com have released their annual travel trend report, revealing ‘What’s Hot’ for 2014. Combining research findings from more than 2,000 holidaymakers with customer data, the report offers an insight into how our holidaying habits have changed and evolved, how much holidays mean to us, what we plan to do whilst we are away and where the must-visit destinations will be this year. When it comes to the 2014 hotspots, whilst the Spanish sunshine isles remain popular, Turkey, Greece and Croatia are giving holidaymakers something different to look forward to next year as bookings to the Eastern Mediterranean continue to soar. Sightseeing city breaks are also striking a chord with 74% opting to visit a cool European city or two next year. Barcelona and Venice are currently topping the city charts when it comes to booking figures – already up 80% on last year. Steve Heapy, CEO of Jet2.com and Jet2holidays, said: “With

January 31 2014

consumers more determined than ever to enjoy their much loved holiday next year, we’re predicting our biggest year yet in 2014 – especially to our Eastern Mediterranean destinations. These findings really illustrate just how important holidays are in our annual calendar and it’s very interesting to see just how and where the majority of us are hoping to escape.” Other key findings include 40% still opt to send a traditional postcard whilst they are away; 39% cannot leave home without their favourite brand of teabag or ketchup; 43% are prepared to leave the sanctuary of the sunbed to get active instead with cycling, golfing and sailing the sports of choice; and a rise in older kids travelling, with 20% tagging along with mum and dad instead of making the most of a mates only break. The survey also found that four-fifths (85%) cannot forego their annual trip and a fifth say their holiday is more important to them than their birthday and Christmas put together. For more information visit www.jet2holidays.com and www.jet2.com

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Newsbites ●

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CLIENTS BOOKING a Dover to Calais day trip for a car and passengers with P&O Ferries can collect six free bottles of red, white or rosé Piat d’Or wine on board. Fares are from £23 return for a car and up to nine people between Sunday and Friday, and from £28 return on Saturdays. The offer is available for trips taken between now and February 28. For details see www.poferries.com SMALL LUXURY Hotels of the World (SLH) reports that 2013 has topped 2012 as its best trading year. Between January 1 and December 31, 2013 the company saw an increase of 8% year-on-year in terms of room nights and 12% in terms of revenue, delivering 369,152 room nights and generating $134million in revenue. AS PART of its 20th anniversary celebration this year, Silversea has given its documentation package a makeover. A new Travel Journal consolidates the traditional assortment of loose documents of booklets, wallets, and luggage tag holders and will be rolled out in stages during the first few months of this year. CHECK SAFETY First has launched its new trade arm, Cristal International Standards, to help hotel groups

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tackle the problem of managing brand consistency. For details see www.checksafetyfirst.com JET2.COM AND Jet2holidays have announced that Mancunian comedian, Jason Manford, is the voice of its multi-million pound TV and radio advertising campaign which runs until March 30. CRUISINGEXCURSIONS.COM HAS announced its latest travel agency deal with The Travel Network Group. The company’s 800 plus members will be selling cruisingexcursions.com’s range of excursions, which now exceed 5,000 at more than 600 ports worldwide. THE INAUGURAL Fiji International will be played at the Natadola Bay Championship Golf Course from August 14-17. For details see www.fijiinternational.com CRYSTAL CRUISES has announced the latest perk to its all-inclusive luxury cruise experience: free Wi-Fi for Crystal Society members, the line’s 'club' of repeat guests, starting this autumn. VISIT BLACKPOOL has launched its 2014 Destination Guide, Blackpool NOW, which can be downloaded at www.visitblackpool.com

Enable Holidays marks tenth anniversary with expanded brochure launch TO CELEBRATE its tenth anniversary, Enable Holidays has launched its biggest brochure to date featuring 50 new properties and ten new destinations including France, Germany, Gibraltar, mainland Greece, Madeira, the UK and India. New adapted properties have been added in the operator's existing destinations including the resorts of

Costa Blanca in Spain and Paphos in Cyprus. The company's managing director, Lynne Kirby, said: "We're always looking to provide our customers with more choice and we've managed to source some fantastic new hotels and destinations, including India's Golden Triangle, which is great news for disabled holidaymakers looking for

more exotic and culturally diverse experiences." Each holiday is tailor-made to meet individual requirements and the company can also arrange for carers to accompany customers on holiday, if required. For more information visit www.enableholidays.com, call 0871-222 4939 or email info@enableholidays.com

Rainbow Tours adds islands of Sao Tome & Principe to 2014 programme RAINBOW TOURS has launched its latest programme of holidays to Africa and Madagascar including, for the first time, the little-known islands of Sao Tomé and Principe. The programme for this year continues to feature popular destinations such as South Africa, Kenya and Tanzania alongside emerging hotspots including Sierra Leone and the Republic of Congo. Sao Tomé and Principe are two volcanic islands that sit on the equator, 225km west of Gabon. The little islands are hardly known and accessible only via a once-weekly flight from Lisbon. They offer unexplored jungles, beaches, a variety of wildlife and Portuguese-Creole cuisine. Principe is also a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve thanks to its rich biodiversity that includes humpback whales, dolphins and nesting turtles. Prices start from £2,195 per person for a seven-night holiday at the principal resort, Bom Bom Island. This year is also set to be significant for South Africa, one of the operator's core destinations with the country celebrating 20 years since its first democratic elections and the beginning of

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guilt-free tourism, as well as Cape Town taking on the title of ‘World Design Capital’, with events and activities throughout the year. For 2014, the company has added a range of properties across the country including in Cape Town, along the south coast and Garden Route, in Johannesburg and in Kruger National Park. The programme has also been expanded to feature a wider choice in almost all destinations including luxury tented camps and remote safari lodges in Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe and Tanzania and in wildlife-rich areas including the Okavango Delta, the Serengeti and the Lower Zambezi. In Namibia there are additional camps, lodges and guesthouses in the rocky wilderness of Damaraland and on the coast at Swakopmund, while in Uganda there are added options for those keen to see the famous gorillas of the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. In addition, across Mozambique, Zanzibar, Mauritius and Réunion Island, there are more choices for those looking to escape to idyllic beaches. For more information visit www.rainbowtours.co.uk or call 020-7666 1250.

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newsbulletin Tweets of the Week Who’s saying what on Twitter... @On_The_Go_Tours Exciting news! We’ve just launched a brand new selection of cruises to the Galapagos Islands – who wants to go? http://bit.ly/1f2ZxVt @VisitBath We start the new year with a bit of a makeover! The beta version of our new website is now live: http://www.visitbath.co.uk hope you like it! @CIMTIGmarketing Don't forget, you can download #free whitepapers, presentations, delegate lists and more from CIMTIG: http://bit.ly/19Zw1KI @CorinthiaHotels Seven Weeks. Seven Hotels. Up To 50% Savings. Corinthia Hotels Annual Sale is back! Book Now http://shout.lt/pp2j @ParkResorts We've been busy bees looking at ways to make your holiday experience even better Check out our BIG investment stories http://po.st/2014Developm ent

LEED-ING THE WAY...Pictured marking the launch of Eastern Airways' Leeds-Southampton service is Tony Hallwood from Leeds Bradford Airport and Kay Ryan from Eastern Airways. Aimed primarily at business travellers, the carrier now operates three flights each weekday plus a Sunday service.

Themed music hotel opens in Benidorm THE ALL-INCLUSIVE Marconfort Hotels & Apartments will open in Benidorm in May, offering music themes of the 70s, 80s and 90s in its Marconfort Benidorm Suites. The complex offers 200 suites where guests can enjoy different themed music, around which the decor and entertainment activities will also be centred. For more information see www.marconfort.com

TYING THE KNOT...Travel 2's Carla Hutchings (right) had a successful day at the Asian Wedding Show in Wembley to promote Travel 2's 'Simply Luxury' honeymoon offering for brides to be and their partners. Pictured with Carla is honeymoon planner, Sangeeta Sehmi.

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Palm Island teams up with Olympic gold medallist Becky Adlington ELITE ISLAND Resorts has teamed up with double Olympic gold medallist and recent I’m A Celebrity contestant Becky Adlington OBE and Virgin Holidays to launch a swim workshop for guests at Palm Island Resort. The free workshop, taking place from May 4-7, will combine learning about the health and therapeutic benefits of sea swimming with holidaying in the Caribbean. Guests will have the opportunity for one-to-one time with Becky, who will be able to advise beginners as well as the more experienced swimmers on the benefits of swimming as a sport to incorporate into daily routines. Spa suites have also been introduced at four of the group’s resorts. Guests can choose five spa treatments within a week’s all-inclusive spa stay from a specially designed spa menu. Bath robes and spa packs, including an exfoliating cleanser, sun protection cream and after sun mist for face and body will also be included. Meanwhile, to make booking easier for agents, the company has launched the UK’s first online bookable interline site. Interline By Elite enables agents to make confirmed bookings and check availability 24-hours a day, seven days a week. New reduced prices for agents have been introduced to encourage more of them to see the Caribbean resorts for themselves. As an example, special prices to St James’s Club Morgan Bay now start from £42 per person per night, all-inclusive. Rates are for stays at any time between April and December and prices are designed exclusively for travel industry staff and their families for their own holidays. For details visit www.interlinebyelite.co.uk

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FR P O RI M CE £6 S 99 P

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WIN A FLY DRIVE HOLIDAY TO THE FLORIDA BEACHES* diversity that Florida has to offer. www.funway4agents.co.uk and complete our short survey. With 8 up for grabs, you have more chance than ever before! All completed surveys will be entered into a prize draw with the winners being chosen at random shortly after the closing date. HOLIDAY DESTINATION(S) & DURATION

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MOVERS

● RACQUEL BROWN has been appointed chief executive officer of

the St. Kitts Tourism Authority. ● ROCKY MOUNTAINEER has appointed Patrick Ryan as director of

Notes from . . . n o t n a m r o N

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HAVE DECIDED that my perfect job would be to accompany Paul O’Grady when he goes on his travel programmes - think of all the pictures and articles I could do! I am so loving the Animal Orphans in Africa - I know there are a few sad bits if they die which to me is worse than Hayley Cropper dying in Coronation Street (you know what I am like with animals!), although I did think that was brilliantly acted by them both. Paul is passionate about animals and it shows. I am so pleased he won an award for his Battersea Dogs Home series as well - every time that is on I could adopt various dogs, and I can really relate to him when he says he wants to sneak them out - I would be the same! Been helping out at Oakwood Travel in Leeds whilst Jonathan enjoys his skiing holiday and it just shows what a small world it is - Claire, his new member of staff who used to work for Thomas Cook and has lived and worked in Lesvos and various other countries, did her work experience at Idle Travel many many moons ago - what a coincidence and of course, I love the Greek Islands as well so we were like a couple of Shirley Valentines chatting away. I think the big two need to decide who they want to support. TUI are still advertising their website prices well below those that travel agents can get, and what on earth is Thomas Cook thinking of when they remind us that with the introduction of ticketless travel all TC airport ticket desks have now closed, and that customers who have problems during check-in must call the 24/7 free phone line (which can be used by customers who missed flights, want name changes or want to buy flight seats). What's that all about? What happened to real people helping you? 'The hardest challenge is to be yourself in a world where everyone else is trying to make you be somebody else' and 'Success is the ability to go from one failure to another with no loss of enthusiasm'.

by SANDRA MURRAY in Normanton, Yorkshire

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WEBSCLUSIVES ●

View photos from Travel Bulletin’s first ever Online Training Showcase, held in London recently, on www.travelbulletin.co.uk/events

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Up to £200 off School Summer Holidays with Lodges & Parks from Hoseasons. Visit www.hoseasons.co.uk/agents

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Win a fly-drive holiday to the Florida Beaches with Funway. Complete a simple survey and you’re in the prize draw. Go to: www.travelbulletin.co.uk/funway

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BROCHURE OF THE WEEK: A2Btravelextras & resorthoppa. Low cost leisure and business airport transfers in over 9,000 cities and resorts in over 90 countries worldwide. Go to www.travelbulletin.co.uk to view in digital format.

All this and more at: To respond to any of Sandy’s comments email jill.sayles@travelbulletin.co.uk

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sales – EMEA & India. Leslie Peden, who was previously the company's director of sales, EMEA, has relocated to establish an office in Orlando, Florida as the new director of sales, USA. NICOLAS PESTY has been appointed general manager of Sofitel London St James. PHILIP MORRIS has been appointed director of revenue at Dorchester Collection with a responsibility for aligning brand revenue and online strategy. THE EDEN Hotel Collection has appointed Paul Foster as head chef of The Dining Room at its three AA red star Mallory Court Hotel near Royal Leamington Spa, Warwickshire. LEANNE CODDINGTON has been appointed CEO of Tourism and Events Queensland (TEQ). ADAM HANMER has been appointed manager, travel trade for the UK at the Canadian Tourism Commission, effective from February 10. ST PANCRAS Renaissance Hotel has appointed Matthew Rowlette as director of sales and marketing. THE GRENADA Tourism Authority (GTA) has appointed Rudy Grant as CEO and Sheldon Keens-Douglas as director of marketing. VOYAGES TO Antiquity has appointed Neil Horrocks as cruise director on the Aegean Odyssey at the start of the Mediterranean 2014 season on March 24. TRAVEL 2 has appointed Donna McAlpine and Laura Smart as marketing assistants and Victoria Haining as graphic designer.

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agentbulletin Booking incentives SILVERSEA HAS announced a new trade incentive for agents booking guests on the new Silver Discoverer which is due to launch in April. Agents who sell a minimum of three suites on Silver Discoverer by June 30, which depart before December 31, will be eligible to redeem a complimentary suite on the luxury ship on select sailings during 2014. The suite request must be submitted by the agent before September 30. Email salesuk@silversea.com for a redemption form and full terms and conditions.

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TRAVEL 2 has extended its ‘Every Day’s a Pay Day’ incentive campaign which allows agents to earn various amounts of shopping vouchers, ranging from £5 to £70 on qualified bookings every day throughout this month and next. The operator has also introduced new ‘Price Beat’ and ‘Advanced Booking’ policies to ensure agents get the best possible prices for their clients. Available on key competitor packages, if agents find the same holiday cheaper with

another operator, Travel 2 will beat it by £10. In addition, the new Advance Booking policy guarantees greater security and flexibility when making bookings for 2014 and beyond. The company has also made improvements to its call centre with Sunday opening hours in January and February. A new call routing process has also been introduced to deliver a quicker turnaround and speedier access to sellers. For immediate answers to their questions, agents can use the company's 'Instant Chat’ service for quick question replies. See www.travel2.com

SARDINIAN PLACES is offering travel agents the opportunity to enter a prize draw to win a sevennight holiday for two at the fourstar Relais Villa del Golfo & Spa in Cannigione (North East Sardinia), by gaining points for every booking made up until February 28. The prize is valid for travel during May (excluding half term) and early June (check out by June 15) and includes flights and transfers. The winner will be drawn on Monday March 3. For details call 0845-3302066 or email trade@serenity.co.uk

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TRAVEL AGENTS have the chance to own a Chrome Book, win a cruise for two on Marco Polo or bag a £100 shopping voucher of their choice by booking a cruise with Cruise and Maritime Voyages (CMV). Each booking made up until March 14 will qualify for one entry into the draw and agents should email the applicable booking reference to agents@cruiseandmaritime.com. For details call 0844-414 6140.

COX & Kings has launched Cox & Kings Rewards, a new agent reward scheme that runs throughout the year and rewards agents for every booking they make over the value of £5,000. Agents should visit www.coxandkingsrewards.co.uk to log their bookings and collect their reward. For details call 020-7873 5020 or email agency.sales@coxandkings.co.uk

Training updates SATOA HAS confirmed the dates of it 2014 events. Tour Operator Dinners will run on March 18 in Brighton, April 2 in London, May 29 in Gloucester, June 19 in Buckinghamshire, July 15 in Chester, September 25 in Glasgow and October 8 in Exeter. Travel Agent Dinners will be hosted on March 27 in Solihull, April 29 in Berkshire, June 12 in London, July 16 in Leeds and October 9 in Bristol. Other events include the SATOA AGM on July 30, Travel Awards on September 18 and Christmas lunch on December 15. For details call 0844-880 2421 or email info@satoa.com ABU DHABI Tourism & Culture Authority (TCA Abu Dhabi) is spearheading a major push to upscale UK hotel guest numbers this year with a dedicated travel trade roadshow in London on February 5 to launch the campaign. At the roadshow the trade can join roundtable discussions with representatives from Abu Dhabi’s hotels and attractions including Yas Island, Desert Adventures, Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas, Rotana Hotels and Jumeirah. Attendees will also discover the emirate’s line up of major events for 2014. To register your interest in attending email uk@tcaabudhabi.ae

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STRIKE A POSE...Agents have the opportunity to ‘bag’ themselves a prize in Tipto’s new competition encouraging entrants to submit a picture of themselves holding their Tipto bag in a glamorous, weird and wonderful location . The competition runs until the end of July and agents should email their photo/s to tipto@thenetwork-uk .com. Pictured is one of the recent entries Carol Dunbar from Direct Travel in Durham , who is pictured seeing in the New Year in Gran Canaria . January 31 2014

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newsbulletin Read all about it with DoSomethingDifferent.com’s electronic splash-mags DOSOMETHINGDIFFERENT. COM HAS launched two new electronic splash-mags, exclusively for travel agents. The company's business manager, Annabel Cove, said, "Keeping a strong relationship with our agents

is very important to us, which is why we try to visit them as much as possible and why we are now very excited to be launching two new e-magazines to keep agents up to date with the latest developments from HQ in-between visits."

'Stay & Play Free' offer from Rocky Mountaineer ROCKY MOUNTAINEER is inviting travellers to experience the Canadian Rockies with its exclusive Stay & Play offer. From now until February 28, guests booking packages of four nights or more receive up to £350 per couple in added value, which can be used to further customise their holiday including extra hotel nights, additional activities and Alaskan cruises. As an example, the Canadian Rockies Highlights & Coastal Passage itinerary is one of the packages eligible for the Stay & Play offer. The eight-day/seven-night holiday is exclusively available in GoldLeaf or SilverLeaf Service and guests travel between Seattle and the Canadian Rockies on the Rocky Mountaineer, overnighting in popular destinations such as Vancouver, BC, Banff, Lake Louise and Calgary AB. For details see http://agent.rockymountaineer.com

united with

The DSD Times will be sent out on the last Thursday of each month via email and will cover news from HQ, features on agents and a snap of the month, while What’s Different? will be a monthly e-update for the trade, talking about the

company's top selling tickets and destinations of the month, new attractions and rides, news on agent incentives, plus updates. To sign up to receive the magazines email info@dosomethingdifferent. com or call 020-8090 3890.

Transun launches early booking deals for 2014 Santa breaks TRANSUN IS offering free child places on selected 2014 Santa breaks in Lapland. As an example, early bookers can benefit from free child places when four people book the Sleigh Bells Ringing package, subject to availability. Highlights include a reindeer sleigh ride, a husky sled ride and the search for Santa in his log cabin hideaway, followed by a private family meeting with Santa where the younger members of the family will be presented with gifts. Guests can further immerse themselves in Arctic culture with a one-night stay in an igloo which is well insulated with traditional reindeer hide. Those looking for something a little cosier can take their little ones to see puppies at a husky camp. Both excursions carry an additional supplementary charge. Prices start from £799 per person and include flights and relevant taxes from a UK regional airport, three nights’ fullboard accommodation, thermal suit and boot hire, plus a full itinerary of activities. The break is offered from a selection of regional UK airports between November 14 and December 20. For details see www.transun.co.uk/agents or call 01865265200.

Keycamp and Eurocamp have united for 2014 meaning we’ll both operate under the Eurocamp banner from now on. It also means we’ve even bigger and better holiday experiences – order your new Eurocamp brochures today to find out more.

Order your new Eurocamp brochures today: Trade-Gate: www.trade-gate.co.uk Viewdata: Istel + Fastrak (BP#)

January 31 2014

DRESSED TO IMPRESS... Virgin Limited Edition has announced that the winning agency of its ‘Best Dressed’ window competition is Symphony World Travel (pictured). The prize was a three-night stay at The Lodge, a Swiss mountain retreat in Verbier, while all other agencies taking part received four tickets to a pre-club night at The Roof Gardens in London.

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puzzlebulletin Travagrams

Su Doku Win a £50 M&S voucher in the travelbulletin Su Doku prize puzzle Number: 004

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

Drama Lindo Nash Doily

A➠

B➠ A rail tour operator which takes its name from this precious stone

C➠

Cure Rem

D➠ Fill in all the squares in the grid so that each row, column and each of the 3 x 3 squares contains the digits 1-9. Once you have completed the puzzle, simply identify the numbers that relate to the letters, A, B, C and D then e-mail the solution, with your name, company name, and full postal address plus phone and ABTA number if applicable to: competition@travelbulletin.co.uk Closing date for entries is Thursday, February 6th. Solution and new puzzle will appear next week. The winner for 17th January is Anne Birkett, Dawson & Sanderson in Hexham. January 17 Solution: A=9 B=8 C=4 D=2

Crossword

Change one letter in this singer’s last name to get this hotel group’s name

Where Am I?

Smallest province of Indonesia.

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

Number: 004

Across 1. Hotel chain operated by Wyndham Worldwide (6) 4. Jimmy, host of 8 out of 10 Cats (4) 8. Capital of Madeira (7) 9. European carrier (3) 10. One of the Great Lakes (4) 12. Leading ferry operator, ___ Line (5) 15. Capital of Jordan (5) 16. The Iolani Palace is located on this island (4) 19. French ski resort, ___ d'Isére (3) 20. Low fares airline (7) 22. One of the Channel Islands (4) 23. Historic French city on the Mediterranean (6)

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Down 1. Game show hosted by Shane Richie, sounds like a knee-jerk reaction (6) 2. Manchester airport code (3) 3. Capital of Qatar (4) 5. State capital of Georgia (7) 6. Luxury hotel The ___ London (4) 7. Currency of Poland (5) 11. Popular Turkish resort on the Turquoise Coast (7) 13. Holiday parks operator, part of Bourne Leisure (5) 14. Derbyshire spa town (6) 17. Major car hire company (4) 18. Capital of Norway (4) 21. Japan Airlines, initially (3)

For the solution to the Crossword, Where Am I? and Travagrams, please see page 30 January 31 2014

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bulletinbriefing

Industry Insight by... Andy Stark, managing director of The Global Travel Group, explains the importance of mobile for travel agents

DON’T know about you, but I am intrigued by a new trend sweeping across the States... I’m told that when employees at Google HQ clock out from work on a Friday and hit the bar, each of them is required to put their smartphone in a pile on the table. The first one to cave and reach for their phone is then forced to pay for the next round of drinks as punishment for their digital dependency. Word is still out on whether Mr. Zuckerberg himself has partaken as of yet, but while this momentary data detox no doubt does what it is supposed to do in that it facilitates human to human conversations, what it says about us is impossible to ignore. For agents out there, now is the time to sit up and take notice. We’ve become a screen obsessed society that is simply no longer able to look away. From a quick Google (on my phone no less), the average person in the UK checks their phone upwards of 100 times a day and an astounding every six seconds in the evening. For someone who remembers a pre-mobile phone world, I still find these stats baffling. Now don’t get me wrong, I can spend a good hour here and there on Twitter on my phone, but I at least look up more than every six seconds. Couple this with the fact that Google states that upwards of 17% of global web traffic now comes through web users’ mobile devices, the growing importance of ‘mobile’ is simply not something that agents can refuse to ignore any longer. Bottom line is that more and more consumers plan their next holiday with smartphone or tablet in hand. Despite the growing evidence that the smartphone reigns supreme, many agents still don’t have effective, user-friendly mobile sites. We all need to hear the message loud and clear that making your website mobile enabled, accessible and user-friendly across all platforms is one of the critical first steps to increasing and growing revenue. It’s clear that for the proactive ones out there the opportunities are endless but those that don’t jump on the bandwagon run the risk of being left behind by their more savvy competitors. The need for a mobile-friendly site is part and

January 31 2014

parcel of the changing dynamics of customer engagement within the travel industry and just one solution to how agents can connect with today’s hyperconnected holidaymakers. Indeed the options for reaching the growing legions of digital travellers are endless, be it with data-driven technologies, text offers, email alerts, personalised content and more and if done properly, can significantly increase customer loyalty and revenue. While for years newspapers and travel industry analysts have been predicting the death of the HighStreet agent at the hands of the internet and call centres, the reality is that real-life walking and talking agents are stronger than ever. It is true that the ease and ability to book a holiday has shifted into the hands of the consumers, although the strange irony of it all is that with the explosion of online travel agents (OTAs) and price comparison websites, travel agents are needed now more than they’ve ever been before.

"Despite the growing evidence that the smartphone reigns supreme, many agents still don’t have effective, user-friendly mobile sites" Knowledge, detail, navigating options and locating the best deals is where agents add value and excel. This is one of the main reasons why offerings of offline High Street travel agents still remain so competitive. Of course, in order to get to this step and show their expertise and prove their worth, agents first need to get their customers through the door. As the Happy Hour example from Google proves, the way to a customer’s heart (and head) is no longer through his stomach, but rather through his smartphone or tablet. www.travelbulletin.co.uk

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eventbulletin TRAVEL BULLETIN hosted its first Online Training Showcase at the Intercontinental Hotel London Westminster for agents last week. The event, sponsored by South Africa Tourism, offered presentations from a range of suppliers as well as a hot buffet dinner, entertainment and a free prize draw... Left: TABLE TALK...Enjoying the reception drinks are, from the left: Rebecca Bateman, Virgin Holidays; Chris Wojchechowski and Sarah Spooner, AM Resorts; and Christine Yeoman, Virgin Holidays.

"I had a lovely time at Travel Bulletin's Online Training Showcase and I was impressed at how smoothly it all ran. I am not used to events finishing on time!" Ambika Aggarwal, International Travel Consultant, Flight Centre

Above: GOING OTT...Getting ready to welcome agents are, from the left: Pete Bakewell, Sean McCarthy and Guillaume Massey from OTT. Right: GOODY GIRLS...Marie Rayner and Leslie Clements from Travel Counsellors pick up their goody bag.

Above: IN HIGH SPIRITS... Enjoying the evening's events are, from the left: George Gregory, Dave Owen and Hattie Harvie from Flight Centre.

Above: CZECH IT OUT...Vendy Fojtova from Czech Tourism gets set to update agents.

"It was a good evening with just the right amount of suppliers to get round and the food was also very good! See you at the next event!" Jacqueline Brady, Ian Allan Travel

January 31 2014

Above: FIT FOR A KING...Ben King (centre) from Dialaflight won a seven-night holiday for two at the El Gouna Club Paradisio Hotel, courtesy of Mohammed Elnaggar of the Egyptian Tourist Office and Nevine Coutry of El Gouna and Taba Heights.

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eventbulletin Right: TRAVEL TALK...Pictured getting acquainted are, from the left: Lam Sim, Reliance Travel; Chamimba Boteju and Keith Lloyd, Peacock Travel; Nina Farrimond, South Africa Tourism; and Kayode Obijole, Peacock Travel.

"Just to say a big thank you for Monday night's event. It was great to meet some new suppliers and learn about their products and I love the Intercontinental and their marvellous hospitality. Thank you to all the team." Carol Smith, Co-operative Personal Travel Advisor

Right: CHOCS AWAY...Collecting his prize of Belgian chocolates from Travel Bulletin's Jeanette Ratcliffe is Sean Phillips of Thomas Cook Wimbledon.

Left: SOUTH AFRICA UPDATE...Nina Farrimond (centre) from South Africa Tourism updates Pam Eaton (left) and Daxha Buchanan from Arup Travel Desk.

Above: SMOOTH SAILING...Anula Carvalho of Aquarius Travels won shopping vouchers in the prize draw and is pictured receiving her prize from Emma Taylor of Crystal Cruises.

Above: HIGH FLIER...Ambika Aggarwal (left) from Flight Centre won a three-night Unlimited Stay at a Dreams or Now Resort in Mexico or The Dominican Republic. She is pictured collecting her prize from Sarah Spooner of AM Resorts. Left: BEN BAGS IT...Ben Burgess from Dialaflight picks up two bottles of wine from Nina Farrimond of South African Tourism.

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January 31 2014

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slovenia

Radovljica

THE AREA of Radol'ca, in the north-west of Slovenia, encompasses the towns of Radovljica and Lesce together with the surrounding villages of Begunje and Kropa. Radovljica’s Old Town is one of best preserved medieval town structures in Slovenia. The old town features preserved architecture as well as museums, galleries and other attractions. Highlights include Šivec House, one of the best-preserved examples of 16th century Slovene town architecture; the Radovljica Mansion, described as the crowning jewel of Radovljica’s architecture, and the Church of St Peter, which offers a typical example of a Gothic three-nave town church. For details see www.radolca.si

Scenic Slovenia & Croatia tour from £920 COSMOS TOURS & Cruises is highlighting an eight-day Scenic Slovenia & Croatia tour where guests can experience the historic region of the Balkans and Dalmation Coast. It includes two nights in Ljubljana, city sightseeing in Split, Zadar, Dubrovnik, Sarajevo and Zagreb and visits to the Plitvice National Park and Mostar. Prices

lead in at £920 per person and include flights, transfers, seven nights' breakfast accommodation, some meals, guided sightseeing and a tour director. Optional tour extensions include Lake Bled or Portoroz on the Istrian Riviera, with three or seven nights from £259 per person. Flights are available from Stansted and Manchester.

Great Rail Journeys promotes range of itineraries with 13 nights from £2,395 GREAT RAIL Journeys is highlighting a selection of 2014 tours that take in Slovenia. A Slovenia, Croatia & Montenegro itinerary takes in Bled, Ljubljana, Zagreb, Split and Dubrovnik and leads in at £2,395 per person. It includes First and Standard Class rail travel (Standard Premier Class on Eurostar journeys with a light meal and drinks); scheduled flights; 13 nights' breakfast accommodation; two lunches and eight dinners; an excursion on the Bohinj Railway; a guided tour of Ljubljana, the Postojna Caves, Zagreb, Zadar, Split

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and Dubrovnik; an excursion to the Plitvice Lakes; an Adriatic ferry cruise; an excursion to Kotor Bay and Budva; porterage for certain sections of the tour; and a tour manager. For clients looking for a cruise into the region, agents can recommend a 12-day Venice & The Dalmatian Coast Cruise, a non-flying cruise on the Royal Clipper. Departing from Venice, the tour includes a cruise across the Adriatic to explore the cities along the Dalmatian Coastline. Itinerary highlights include Kotor in

Montenegro, Dubrovnik, Hvar and Rovinj in Croatia and the Slovenian town of Piran. Prices lead in at £3,470 and include First Class rail travel throughout (Standard Premier Class on Eurostar journeys with a light meal and drinks); four nights' breakfast accommodation; a sevennight cruise on Royal Clipper in a Category six twin berth inside cabin; all meals during the cruise plus a further three dinners; a guided tour of Venice; transfers; porterage for certain sections of the tour; and a tour manager.

January 31 2014

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slovenia Debut Slovenia launch in Anatolian Sky Holidays’ new 2014 brochure ANATOLIAN SKY Holidays had expanded its programme for 2014 to include a choice of holidays in Slovenia. The programme aims to showcase the country’s diverse landscape of mountains, lakes and coastal towns, as well as the laid-back capital, Ljubljana. There are city breaks to Ljubljana with a choice of four- and five-star hotels with prices from £579 per person for five nights at the centrally-located Grand Union Hotel. Also available are holidays to Slovenia’s coastline, including Piran and Portoroz, and to Lake Bled and Bohinj, with accommodation ranging from the luxury Grand Hotel Toplice to the alpinestyle Hotel Jezero. The programme also

offers a range of tailormade, multi-centre holidays plus a six-day Highlights of Slovenia escorted tour, priced from £2,325 per person and departing on fixed dates monthly between May and October. Starting in the capital, the tour travels through the Karst region to the Postojoria Cave, before reaching the coast at Piran. It includes a visit to Nova Gorcia and travels through the Soca Valley to Lake Bled. For more information visit www.anatoliansky.co.uk or call 0844-273 3585.

Piran

KAMP KOREN, located in a picturesque valley by the Soča river, offers 80 pitches for caravans, motor homes and tents and can host up to 250 guests. Each pitch has an electric hook up and the site features a heated sanitary block, washing and drying machine, TV, Wi-Fi, bar and grocery store. The four-star campsite, situated 500m from the centre of Kobarid, also offers disabled facilities, as well as a range of activities including volley ball, bowling, a playground, table tennis, a climbing wall and a high ropes course. The campsite has also unveiled six new wooden chalets (pictured) each offering a kitchen, living room, bathroom and two bedrooms. Prices lead in at €55 per night in low season and €160 in high season. Discounts of 5% are available for stays of seven nights or more and 10% discounts apply to stays of ten nights or more. For details email info@kamp-koren.si

Summer additions with seven-night half-board breaks from £629 with Inghams INGHAMS HAS added new options for breaks this summer. As examples, Strictly Slovenia offers guests a stay on Lake Bled and the opportunity to learn ballroom dancing under the expert guidance of Katarina Ventorini, 23 times Slovenian National Champion. Lessons are available for all levels, including complete beginners, and at the end of the course guests receive their own Strictly Slovenia trophy to take home. Classes run throughout July and are free for

January 31 2014

guests staying in the Hotel Park, Hotel Golf or Toplice. A seven-night stay on a half-board basis at the four-star Hotel Park costs from £629 per person, based on a July 6 departure. It includes flights and transfers. The company is also offering three-day Slovenian cooking courses this summer under the guidance of Chef Andrej Rovan, owner of a prestigious restaurant in Slovenia. Guests will learn about local ingredients and how to cook

traditional dishes, discover new ways to cook fish and meats and discover wines from the local regions. Classes are included for all guests staying at the four-star Hotel Triglav on selected dates from May to September. A seven-night, half-board stay at the hotel costs from £1,189 per person including flights, transfers and the cooking course. For more information visit www.inghams.co.uk/agents or call 01483-791114.

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slovenia Ten facts to inspire a trip to Slovenia by TINE MURN, head of UK office, Slovenian Tourist Board 2014 IS the year to visit Slovenia. Combining the Alps, the Mediterranean, the Pannonia Plain and the Karst, Slovenia is one of the most diverse countries on the planet. Pick autumn fruits in the morning, take a dip in the Adriatic in the afternoon and go night skiing in the evening. Here are some other facts to inspire your clients to visit... 1. Slovenia is one of the most biologically diverse countries in the world. In total, it is home to more than 24,000 species of animal, 1% of all living beings and 2% of all land animals. 2. Slovenia is the third most wooded country in Europe (after Finland and Sweden). Almost 60% of all its territory is covered by forest. In recent decades, this share has only increased, as more than 200,000 trees are planted annually. 3. Emona (Ljubljana), the Roman colony that once stood on the site of

present-day Ljubljana turns 2,000 this year. To mark the occasion, the capital will host numerous Romanbased festivals and exhibitions. 4. Slovenia is a country with abundant water, making it the perfect destination for fishing. There are more than 45 watercourses over 25km long and many waterfalls, gorges and lakes. 5. You can swim and ski on the same day! The geographical and climatic diversity and variety of Slovenia allows you to pick autumn fruits in the morning, take a swim in the Adriatic in the afternoon and go skiing in the evening. 6. Slovenia is one of the most waterrich countries in Europe. Its rivers, streams and other watercourses measure 27,000km in total. Moreover, Slovenia has numerous thermal and mineral springs and lots of underground waters. 7. The oldest vine in the world grows in Maribor, the second largest

city in Slovenia. It is more than 400 years old and 25 litres of wine are still produced from its grapes annually. 8. Slovenia is home to around 3,000 churches, chapels and shrines, making it one of Europe's top countries for sacral objects per capita. 9. The destination is one of the best countries in Europe for yearround activities. Visitors can spend winter skiing in the Julian Alps, sunbathe along the Mediterranean in the summer and try their hand at a long list of sports and activities in between. 10. Slovenia is a country famous for caves including the magnificent Postojna Caves, and the UNESCO World Heritage Listed Škocjan Caves. They are also one of the famous systems of limestone (karstic) caves in the world. For more information see www.slovenia.info

Choose:

Endless peace

or adrenaline injection!

Kamp Koren is situated in picturesque valley by the Soča river, only 500m away from the centre of Kobarid. You can stay in a campsite or in our eco chalets, each with 100m2 living space, divided into kitchen, living room, bathroom and 2 bedrooms.

EXPLORE IS highlighting its new Multi Active Slovenia and Active Slovenia tours. The former offers a week of activities for adults in the Slovenian countryside. Based in Tolmin and Bohinj, guests can take part in whitewater rafting, cycling, canyoning and kayaking. Departing between June and August, prices lead in at £1,098 per person including flights, seven nights' breakfast accommodation, transport, a tour leader, driver and activity guides. The Active Slovenia option, aimed at families, is based in Tolmin and Bohinj and guests can also take part in whitewater rafting, cycling, canyoning and kayaking. Departing between July and August, prices lead in at £1,092 per adult and £998 per child (minimum age eight) including flights, seven nights' breakfast accommodation, transport, a tour leader and activity guides. For details see www.explore.co.uk or call 0844-499 0901.

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Here anybody can find something for themselves: relaxing atmosphere or different sport activities, such as rafting, kayaking, canyoning, hiking, climbing, mountain biking, paragliding, fly-fishing and others. The campsite offers volleyball, bowling playground, table tennis, a climbing wall and adventure park, washing and drying machine, TV, WiFi, bar and grocery with some eco products. Tel.: +386 (0)5 389 13 11 Fax.: +386 (0)5 389 13 10

E-mail: info@kamp-koren.si W: www.kamp-koren.si

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slovenia Balkan relaunches agent training manuals BALKAN HOLIDAYS, which offers a Summer Sun and Winter Ski and Snowboard programme to Slovenia, has relaunched its agent training manuals with updated information about the country. The manuals provide agents with an in depth knowledge of destinations in Eastern Europe and the eight module programme covers the operator's winter and summer programmes. Agents successfully completing any of the manuals receive a certificate plus incentives. In its summer programme the operator features holidays to Portoroz, golf holidays to Lake Bled plus Lakes and Mountain holidays to Lake Bohinj and Kranjska Gora. The winter ski programme focuses on Lake Bled. The company's sales and marketing manager, Rupert Diggins, said: “As a holiday destination, Slovenia has it all. The climate is good and the country is beautiful with its lakes and mountains, as well as beach resorts. There is good infrastructure with excellent quality hotels and regular flights from Stansted, Luton and Manchester.” As examples of prices, a seven-night stay at the four-star Hotel Lek in Kranjska Gora, departing on March 1 from Stansted, costs £457 per person based on two sharing a twin room on half-board. In Lake Bled, a seven-night stay at the three-star Hotel Jelovica, departing on January 29 from Stansted, costs £414 on half-board. Both prices also include transfers. For further information see www.balkanholidays.co.uk/agents or call 0845-130 1114.

REGENT HOLIDAYS has launched its 'Russia & Alternative Europe’ programme which includes a range of tours to Slovenia. Highlights include a seven-day, twin-centre itinerary priced from £595 per person, which incorporates Ljubljana and Lake Bled, with three nights’ breakfast accommodation in each destination plus flights and transfers. Alternatively, an eight-day Slovenia & Croatia fly/drive holiday costs from £750 including flights, breakfast accommodation and car hire. For details see www.regent-holidays.co.uk

Tourist board positive for strong 2014 on back of recent demand THE SLOVENIA Tourist Board reports that 2014 is a big year for the destination and that the recent year-onyear growth in UK visitors has had a positive impact on the future for Slovenia tourism. The tourist board's director, Karmen Novarlič, said: "Expected demand has seen new additional flights scheduled from the British Isles to Slovenia starting this year. The annual ABTA convention in September will also be an excellent tool to drive more tourists from the UK to Slovenia."

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In the north-west of Slovenia between the Karavanke and Julian Alps, close to world-famous Bled and Triglav National Park. Highlights include:

Radovljica – old town centre, one of the best preserved medieval towns in Slovenia. Points of interest: Museum of Apiculture, Lectar Inn and Live Gingerbread Museum. Lesce – Sports airfield, Bled Golf Course. Begunje – Home to the world renowned Avsenik music, Kamen Castle. Kropa – The cradle of Slovene iron-forging, authentic iron mill owners’ architecture. The Sava River – The Šobec Campsite, fishing. Read our blog: adeleinslovenia.wordpress.com To find out more visit: www.radolca.si

www.facebook.com/RadolcaHonestlySweet

January 31 2014

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australasia NEXT MONTH will mark a decade since The Ghan completed its extended route from Adelaide to Darwin. Prior to that, it ran from Adelaide as far as Alice Springs. To celebrate the 'Ghanniversary', Great Southern Rail is offering travellers 20% off its most popular packages on bookings made by February 28, valid for travel between May 1 and October 31. Discounted fares from Darwin to Alice Springs or vice versa start from £525 (AU$952) per person travelling in Gold Class or from £1,052 travelling from Darwin to Adelaide (and vice versa). The price includes all train tours, all standard beverages, soft drinks, beers, standard wines and spirits and meals. Flights from Heathrow to Darwin via Kuala Lumpur with Malaysia Airlines start from £990 per person.

Silversea launches Kimberley expedition cruise for 2014 SILVERSEA CRUISES has announced a new expedition ship which will sail in Western Australia's Kimberley region from April. The new ship, Silver Discoverer, will have capacity for up to 128 passengers and on-board facilities will include 12 Zodiac excursion boats and a glass-bottomed boat. Over 11 days it will cruise between Broome and Darwin and highlights for guests include witnessing the 20 metre tidal change and wildlife at Montgomery Reef and visiting Mitchell Falls. Guests are also offered daily briefings to explain the wildlife, nature and geography of the destination, as well as maps and artefacts through its partnership with the Royal Geographical Society. For details see www.silversea.com/ silverdiscoverer

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New Zealand cycle trail gears up for 2014 launch THIS YEAR will see New Zealand complete its nationwide 'Nga Haerenga Cycle Trail', a jointly funded Government and community network of cycle trails to showcase the best of the country's landscape, environment, culture and heritage. When the trail's 23 Great Rides are completed, cyclists will have a choice of almost 2,500 km of dedicated cycle routes to explore independently or

as part of a guided group. Beyond the network, New Zealand’s cycling developments continue with the opening of other dedicated off-road cycle trails, new itineraries and events. In the North Island, the central volcanic plateau has a choice of landscapes and experiences ranging from sandy river tracks to meandering forest trails and steamy volcanic pathways.

Meanwhile, the South Island’s alpine scenery sets the scene for a multitude of shorter outings, multi-day touring routes and hard-core mountain-biking experiences - following the water’s edge of a lake, river or coastal estuary; cruising a food and wine trail; or a grand touring adventure cycling from the mountains to the sea. For more information visit www.nzcycletrail.com

Etihad announces daily Perth flights on Airbus A330-200 ETIHAD AIRWAYS will commence daily flights to Western Australia on July 15. An Airbus A330-200 aircraft with 262 seats – 22 seats in Pearl Business Class and 240 in Coral Economy Class – will fly the route between the airline’s hub in Abu and Perth, its fourth Australian gateway.

Customers will be able to connect onto codeshare flights to 14 towns and cities across Western Australia, including Broome in the Kimberley, Albany on the southern coast and Learmouth for access to the World heritage listed Ningaloo Reef.

Fiji Airways enhances network with increased frequency FIJI AIRWAYS is enhancing its route network further this year with increased frequency of flights between Australia, New Zealand, the US and Hong Kong to the Fiji Islands and beyond. Frequency will be increased on the Hong Kong-Nadi service to three times weekly, the Christchurch-Nadi route to twice weekly and a daily service between LA and Nadi. New routes include twice weekly flights between Suva and Sydney, and Suva and Apia (Samoa), in addition to the current twice daily Nadi to Sydney service and three times weekly Nadi-Apia service. For further information call 01787-211668.

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reservations@ukairpacific.com

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australasia Private jet adventure in WA from A&K ABERCROMBIE & KENT has announced the launch of a private jet adventure into the remote reaches of Western Australia and the Northern Territory. The service offers 13 days on a privately chartered Fokker F70LR aircraft beginning in Perth and concluding in Darwin, with no more than 30 guests. The itinerary includes invitation only access to Warmun Aboriginal Community, the natural landscapes of the Bungle Bungles and Karijini National park, ancient rock art galleries and snorkelling and marine experiences at Ningaloo Reef. Accommodation has been hand-picked for its location and experiences and all meals and drinks are included. The tour operates from August 26 to September 7 with prices leading in at $28,000 per person based on twin share. For more information see www.abercrombiekent.co.uk

Brisbane's QPAC steals the show THE QUEENSLAND Performing Arts Centre (QPAC) in Brisbane is to play host to a range of live talent in the coming months. As an example, the American Ballet Theatre (ABT) is making its way to Australia for the first time and will perform two productions with the Queensland Symphony Orchestra (QSO). The events take place from August 28 to September 7 and tickets cost from $79. For details on other shows and events see www.qpac.com.au

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AS QUEENSTOWN prepares for the 2014 New Zealand Open golf tournament from February 27 to March 2, Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa has launched a new golf and spa package for golf fans. Designed for couples, the package includes Champagne on arrival, overnight accommodation in a Lakeview Room with breakfast, a round of golf at Jack's Point Golf Course, a 90-minute Full Body Repair treatment at the spa, 15% off additional spa treatments and complimentary late check-out based on availability. It costs NZ$695 (approximately £354) per night and is available MondayThursday. The hotel is within a 15-minute drive to the two venues co-hosting the tournament. For details see www.queenstown.hilton.com

Tourism Australia reports UK visitors are ‘back on track’ TOURISM AUSTRALIA (TA) is attributing a 4.5% increase in the overall number of visitors arriving in Australia from the UK, for the year ending November 2013, to a range of factors including the British & Irish Lions Tour to Australia and the Commonwealth Bank Ashes Series. According to the tourist board, global campaigns such as ‘The Best Jobs in the World’ to promote Australia to travellers aged 18-30 have also helped to increase UK visitors. The UK remains Australia’s most valuable international leisure market in terms of total spend, with UK leisure visitors’ annual total spend reaching the AUD$2.4billion mark, contributing 15% of the total spend for all inbound leisure visitors to Australia. The UK is also Australia’s most valuable leisure market in terms of visitor nights and dispersed nights. The tourist board's Denise von Wald, regional general manager UK/Northern

Europe, said: “Australia remains one of the number one destinations that British holidaymakers most want to visit, but our challenge is to convert desire into actual intention to travel. Our ‘There’s Nothing Like Australia’ campaign resonates well in the UK market and by working with airlines, distribution and media partners we are moving the dial, taking advantage of the improving economic climate and increasing consumer confidence over here. “Globally, Tourism Australia is working towards increasing the overall expenditure of visitors in line with our 2020 Strategy. In the UK we focus on attracting affluent long-haul travellers aged over 50 and working holidaymakers aged 18-30. These two segments provide us with the best opportunity to increase overall tourism expenditure out of this market.” For more information visit www.tourism.australia.com

Skyrail introduces new ways to experience the rainforest IN CELEBRATION of the 25th anniversary of the Wet Tropics Area’s World Heritage listing, Skyrail in Cairns, Queensland has found two new ways of enhancing its experience of soaring over the rainforest canopy in gondolas. Diamond View Gondolas are a new introduction and are fitted with glass bottoms to offer guests a panoramic

view of the tropical rainforest canopy below. For a slightly more adventurous rainforest experience, the Canopy Gilder, which is set to open on April 1, will see passengers harnessed into an open air gondola before travelling over 7.5km of World Heritage Protected Rainforest with one of the company's rangers. Guests can also alight at two

rainforest mid stations to explore the forest environment from the boardwalks, look-outs and Rainforest Interpretation Centre. A one-way Diamond Gondola Skyrail trip departing from either Caravonica or Kurunda costs $57. For more information visit www.skyrail.com.au

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australasia Compagnie du Ponant announces new itineraries to Australia & New Zealand COMPAGNIE DU Ponant has Darwin Watertfront launched new itineraries in Oceania for the winter 2014/15 season with seven cruises to Australia and New Zealand. The new itineraries take passengers to the South Pacific Ocean and Oceania with highlights including Darwin, the Great Barrier Reef, Sydney, Melbourne, Tasmania, Auckland and Rotorua. Seven departures are offered between December 12 and February 15, 2015 on L’Austral, from €2,150 per person, cruise only. For details see www.ponant.com or call 0800-980 4027.

Travel 2 highlights new property developments TRAVEL 2 is promoting a selection of new hotels opening throughout Australia this year. The operator's product manager, Heather Colbourn, said: "One recommendation is the Sheraton Melbourne Hotel. Located at the Paris end of the Central Business District, the new hotel will offer easy access to dynamic shopping, nightlife, and sporting venues, including the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). "Also opening this year is Four Points by Sheraton Brisbane, located minutes from the scenic Botanic Gardens, the river front promenade, trendy Eagle Street Pier and the shopping district of Queen Street Mall. The 32-storey building will offer 246 guest rooms and two dining outlets, including an all-day restaurant for the convenience of guests. "Chifley at Lennons closed last year to undergo significant redevelopment and once completed, will be rebranded as the NEXT Hotel Brisbane when it reopens in mid-2014. The redevelopment will see the property incorporate a new and exclusive luxury retail space, a rejuvenated façade, renovated internal design including an additional 150 rooms, and linkages to Burnett Lane from the Queen Street Mall." Aside from the new openings, the operator recommends escorted touring as an ideal way to see as many places as possible with experienced guides and many meals included. Colbourn said: "September remains an excellent time of year to go to Australia; the weather is pleasant, sitting around the mid-twenties in Sydney and Queensland, and this is still low season in Sydney and Queensland. Sydney and Hamilton Island are especially good destinations to visit in September.” As an example of packages, prices lead in at £2,119 per person for a 14-night holiday for travel between May 1 and June 30. It includes flights, a three-night stay at the three-star Travelodge Southbank in Melbourne, a five-day Great Ocean Road self-drive package, two days at Kangaroo Island and a four-day Essential Cairns Package with three nights at the four-star Rydges Esplanade Cairns.

January 31 2014

PEREGRINE ADVENTURES has added a new week-long tour to Papua New Guinea. It departs from Port Moresby on August 14, and gives travellers the chance to witness hundreds of tribes from across Papua New Guinea’s Highlands come together to commemorate their pride and heritage at the annual Mount Hagen Festival. Prices lead in at £1,595 per person including accommodation, most meals, transfers, entry to the festival, domestic flights and a local tour leader. The operator can also arrange international flights.

Kiwi Experience campaign aims to reunite previous passengers KIWI EXPERIENCE has launched its 25th anniversary campaign designed to reunite past passengers. Centred around its Facebook page, the campaign features a photo album to see how many past customers it can reunite while showcasing their Kiwi adventures to friends. Customers are asked to submit group photos from their trips and look for familiar faces amongst others that are shared. The operator is also highlighting its range of 34 passes, with prices starting from NZ$109 (approximately £55) and validity of up to a year. Passes range from one to 29 days minimum travel time and cover North Island, South Island, or both. They are valid for a year from first use, so passengers can hop on and hop off to allow for more time in their favourite locations, or fit their travels around working holidays. As an example of prices, a 16-day 'The Sheepdog' itinerary starts in Auckland and winds its way down the North Island, before cruising down the West Coast of the South Island and back up to Christchurch. Prices lead in at $1,200 (approximately £604) per person. For more information see www.kiwiexperience.com

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Trancoso, Brazil's Bahia coast

Embratur highlights major events that showcase destination's diversity EMBRATUR (the Brazilian Tourist Board) predicts that 2014 is set to be a big year for Brazil in terms of showcasing diversity and an increase in tourism and accessibility. Data released by the Brazilian Ministry of Tourism confirms that a record number of international tourists visited Brazil in 2012, with a total of 5,433,354 tourists travelling into the country, a 4.5% growth on 2011. Commenting on tourism figures, Flavio Dino, president of Embratur, said: "The upcoming major world sporting events such as the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil and the Rio 2016 Olympic and Paralympic games provides a fantastic opportunity to showcase Brazil’s diversity. The latest tourism figures signify that momentum is growing ahead of our upcoming mega events and we are on track to meet our goal of ten million visitors by 2020."

The 2014 FIFA World Cup is the main focus for Brazil this year, with 12 different cities hosting the tournament. According to the tourist board, one of the biggest emerging trends this year will be a significant increase in sports tourism and the fact that the broad range of host cities are able to showcase Brazil’s cultural diversity. There is a peaked interest around the World Cup, not just in destinations such as Rio de Janeiro but also in the lesser known destinations such as Manaus and Belo Horizonte where the England team will be playing this summer. Dino said: “We strongly believe that fans visiting Brazil and experiencing Brazilian passion for football, our country’s natural beauty, diverse culture and Brazil’s welcoming and friendly people will ensure that we continue to see a large growth in tourism in the coming years."

Contiki Holidays offers six-day Rio Carnival tour CONTIKI’S SIX-DAY Rio de Janiero tour takes in the sights and sounds of the Rio Carnival coupled with visits to the city’s most prominent landmarks. The tour begins with a day spent at leisure exploring the coastline or the neighbourhoods of Ipanema and Copacabana, before an evening feasting on local cuisine and sampling the nightlife. The next day, guests will have the chance to take a cable car trip to Sugarloaf Mountain and meet the monkey residents as they stop off en

route to the summit at Morro de Acucar. Day three takes travellers on a journey through the world’s largest urban forest where they will be greeted by wildlife, waterfalls and plants before heading to the Sambadrome Parade, a competition between Brazilian samba schools featuring costumes, floats and dancers. The following day can be spent relaxing on the beach before opting to visit Corcovado Mountain and the Christ the Redeemer statue in the Tijuca Forest National Park. The next day, guests will see Rio from

a different perspective with a boat cruise and a barbecue lunch. The operator has a variety of Me Time options on offer during the tour. Additional excursions include a favela (shanty town) tour, Christ the Redeemer statue and Sugarloaf Mountain tour, plus a carnival favela party. The tour costs from £1,970 per person (land-only), including five nights’ breakfast accommodation, a tour manager and local taxes and charges. For more information visit www.contiki.com

TAP Portugal launches flights to Manaus and Belém in June from £735 TAP PORTUGAL has added the Brazilian destinations of Manaus and Belém to its schedule, with the first departures taking off in June. The destinations are part of the airline’s first route to northern Brazil, widening its existing network, which will now serve all regions from the UK via Lisbon. The route is to be launched three times weekly on Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays and will operate from London-Lisbon-Manaus-Belém-Lisbon-London. Manaus has a population of 2.3million people and is the capital city of the state of Amazonas as well as one of the fastest growing regions in Brazil. Belém is the capital city of the state of Pará, the entrance gate to the Amazon River and

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has a population of 2.25million. Both cities are eco-tourism destinations and Manaus has also been named as one of the host cities of the 2014 FIFA World Cup. The service adds to the airline’s current flight offering of ten gateways in Brazil, taking the total number of weekly flights in operation to 74. The new route will also further expand the airline’s existing connections via Lisbon, to 79 destinations in 34 countries worldwide including Africa and North and South America. Fares for the new routes start from £735 per person including all taxes and charges. For further information or to book visit www.flytap.com

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brazil Eight-day Argentina & Brazil tour from £3,455 from Peregrine Reserve PEREGRINE ADVENTURES’ luxury brand, Peregrine Reserve, has launched an eight-day tour of Argentina and Brazil leading in at £3,455 per person, excluding flights. The itinerary includes three days in Rio at the boutique Hotel Santa Teresa, a former coffee plantation mansion with panoramic views of the city, harbour and bay of Rio. The tour includes a cable car ride up Sugarloaf Mountain, a samba lesson during a visit to a traditional samba school and dinner at Bar do Mineiro, which serves traditional Brazilian fare. Other highlights include a tango show in Buenos Aires, an Argentinian estancia stay with a cooking class and a powerboat ride to the base of the Iguazu Falls, which is on the border between Brazil and Argentina.

Travel 2 highlights São Paulo & Rio de Janeiro INTREPID URBAN Adventures is offering a Rio Samba Experience, which offers travellers VIP access to the Salgueiro Samba School during rehearsals for the Rio Carnival. There is a chance to meet performers, learn basic Samba moves and take a percussion lesson, before partying the night away as the Samba School practises for their performance. The tour runs every Saturday evening until the end of February and costs approximately £103. It includes a welcome caipirinha, dance and percussion lesson, entry to the Samba School, transport and a local guide. Agents can book it as a standalone day tour or as an add-on to any small group tour. For more information visit www.urbanadventures.com

TRAVEL 2'S top tip to agents selling holidays to Brazil this year is to promote the destinations of São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro for the opening and closing matches of the World Cup. However, for clients watching the budget the operator recommends booking outside of peak event times including Carnival, New Year and the World Cup so that clients can get the best of Brazil without the added cost. As an example of packages, an eight-day Rio & Beaches of Buzios costs from £1,619 per person for travel between September 1-30, including flights.

Rickshaw Travel highlights 15-night 'Taste of Brazil' option from £2,647 RICKSHAW TRAVEL is promoting its 15-night 'A Taste of Brazil' which takes in the best that Brazil has to offer on an independent tour. Highlights include an Amazon jungle tour spotting caimans and other wildlife before fishing for piranhas in the tropical rainforest, the chance to take in one of the waterfalls of Foz de Iguazu, plus time in Rio de Janeiro. In addition to time spent in Manaus - where England will play its first match in the FIFA World Cup which starts in June, the tour also includes the chance to

learn to make Brazil's national drink - the Caipirinha in Itacimirim and relax on the beaches of Salvador de Bahia. Prices start from £2,647 per person based on two sharing including internal travel by plane, boat and private transfers; breakfast accommodation; all meals in the Amazon; and flights. Departures are from March to May. For more information visit www.rickshawtravel.co.uk or call 01273-322399.

Discover Brazil with Air Europa Fly from London to Salvador de Bahia and Sao Paulo All flight are via Madrid Call 0871 222 9122 · or email uksales@air-europa.com · For more information visit www.aireuropaexperts.com

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Hoseasons adds new product to 2014 Lodges & Parks programme TO CELEBRATE its 70th anniversary, Hoseasons has launched its 2014 Lodges and Parks programme with a special front cover illustrated by Mark Thomas. This year’s collection of lodges and holiday parks in the UK and Europe is the operator’s largest yet, with 574 locations on offer – 448 in the UK and 126 in Europe. Examples of new products include two new Daisy Door Cottage Style Collection locations in South West Scotland and North Wales; three new Evermore Lodge Holiday Collection

locations in South Cornwall, Derbyshire and Cumbria; two new Go Active locations in Scotland and Cornwall; the launch of a new subbrand at five sites called Go Plus; and four new Autograph Lodge Holidays locations in Shropshire, South Wales, Lincolnshire and the Yorkshire Dales. The programme features 126 parks in ten European countries, including Voyager First, a collection of four- and five-star parks designed with British families in mind, with an Englishspeaking representative on hand and a range of facilities and accommodation.

Other features of the programme include ‘Family Fun’ parks; ‘Relax and Explore’ parks; ‘Lodge Escape’ parks; pet-friendly accommodation in more than 384 locations; Wi-Fi in more than 225 locations; and hot tubs in more than 179 locations. A range of early booking discounts, including savings of up to £100 off holidays during peak school summer holiday weeks, are available. For more information call 0844-847 1144 or visit www.hoseasons.co.uk/agents

Half-term deals from Butlins with four nights from £43 per person BUTLINS IS offering guests deals on selected breaks across its three seaside resorts this February half-term with three- and four-night breaks starting from £43 per person, plus kids eat free on school holiday breaks when a dining plan is added. A new live show features Scooby Doo, Shaggy, Fred, Velma and Daphne who will be solving mysteries, while a Freddie live show is based on Freddie Mercury and Queen where guests can watch professional singers and dancers bring to life their hits. Other highlights include new show, Cirque du Hilarious, which features daredevil acts and comedy routines. The lead in price is based on four sharing a standard self-catering apartment at Butlins Bognor Regis, based on a February 21 arrival for three nights.

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Meanwhile, the company has announced that the Boomtown Rats, with the original line-up including Sir Bob Geldof, will be headlining the Great British Alternative Music Festival of 2014 at its Skegness resort on October 10-13. The Live Music Weekend will celebrate alternative music and is focused around British rock bands that first became popular in the 70s and 80s and are still influential in the music industry today. Guests will be treated to live performances on centre stage by The Fall, From the Jam and The Blockheads. A three-night break over the festival period costs from £97 per person based on four sharing a silver selfcatering apartment. For further information visit www.bourneleisuresales.co.uk or call 0845-070 4742.

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holidayparks Haven announces new park developments as part of £40million investment EACH YEAR Haven invests more than £40m back into its holiday parks and this year will be no different with new swimming pools, restaurants, landscaping and new accommodation, ready for the parks’ re-opening in March. New for this year is British Basketball League (BBL) training in which children have the opportunity to be taught by BBL professional players, learning on court skills, ball handling and free throw shot skills at selected parks. There will be a new Aerial Adventure at Devon Cliffs and Hafan y Mor, plus the addition of ‘tag rugby’ to some parks, with free mini sessions for kids aged three to five. Combe Haven in Hastings will also be getting a new sports court and play area. The interactive activity, Bushcraft, in which guests can learn essential wilderness survival tips such as building shelters and lighting fires, will be extended to more parks, such as Haggerston Valley, Primrose Valley, Thorpe Park and Church Farm. There will also be a new Adventure Trail at Hafan y Mor which will feature a cycle and jogging circuit, while the company's new ‘Nature Rocks’ activities will be available at selected parks. The new programme will allow guests to choose between a range of activities, from rock pooling, sand sculpture competitions and dam building to treasure hunts and willow weaving.

In terms of the entertainment programme, the FunStar team will be back with new shows for guests to enjoy such as ‘Girls on Film’ featuring some of the music from the best chick flicks of the 80s and a new Panto ‘Aladdin’ will tour all the parks throughout the summer. For guests who love a splash around, new water features are being installed at Lakeland and Doniford Bay with a new waterslide arriving at Doniford Bay, whilst the entire swimming pool complex at Burnham-on-Sea is being refurbished and will include a new paddling area. Meanwhile, Marton Mere holiday park has a new bar and restaurant; Hafan Y Mor has also refurbished its Live Lounge entertainment venue; and Reighton Sands will be gaining a new beach-themed café bar. Guests booking a break before February 9 can save up to 50% on stays of seven nights or more in spring, May, June, early July and autumn, or up to 30% on all other dates and short breaks. Prices lead in at £95 per family based on selected threeand four-night breaks in March staying in a standard twobedroom caravan that sleeps up to six people at selected parks. For more information see www.bourneleisuresales.co.uk or call 0871-230 1919.

VisitEngland announces new Gold award for holiday parks A NEW Gold award for holiday parks assessed by Quality in Tourism has been launched by VisitEngland to recognise increased levels of quality at four- and fivestar holiday parks in England. Specific criteria must be met in order for parks to win the award such as scoring 90% or above for cleanliness, and the assessment process includes a detailed check of all of the park’s facilities. A selection of each of the accommodation types are also assessed to ensure all aspects of a stay at the park are of high quality. All parks undergo a main assessment and if scores reach a potential Gold award level, then a follow-up assessment is carried out. For more information see www.qualityintourism.com

Fuerteventura addition from P&V LES CASTELS are four- and five-star campsites in France encompassing 41 establishments all over the country. The company offers a choice of accommodation from chalets and mobile homes to tree houses, gypsy caravans, houses on stilts and apartments. A loyalty card for repeating customers, ‘Carte Castellissime’, is available and facilities and entertainment vary from site to site, with some better suited to families and others for couples or groups. All sites have also introduced a Premium Offer with more VIP services and conditions. The company is committed to sustainable development, with accommodation blended into the landscape as far as is possible and with light and mobile installations such as tents and caravans respecting ongoing environmental conservation work. As a result, three sites have been granted the European Ecolabel Award and 17 have received the Green Key Award. A week in a mobile home for four people at Castel La Garangeoire (which celebrates its 50th anniversary this year) leads in at €289 from April 19-26, or €780 in high season from July 5-18. For details visit www.camping-castels.co.uk

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PIERRE & Vacances has added the Fuerteventura Origo Mare Holiday Village to its programme this year, with the first guests scheduled to arrive in May. Apartments are set around the 1000m2 waterpark in the centre of the village, known as the 'Craterpark' and are inspired by the volcanoes of this area of the Canaries. They feature a terrace and garden and range in size from studios for two through to three-bedroom houses for seven with private swimming pools. The holiday village has a range of more than 40 activities tailored to both children and adults. Kids' clubs are also offered for three age brackets, while other activities on offer include windsurfing, diving, tennis and DJ lessons. A seven-night self-catering stay in a two-person studio costs from £468 while prices for a three-bedroom apartment with a swimming pool lead in at £935. For more information call 0870-026 7145 or see www.pierreetvacances.co.uk

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Camping le Capeyrou, France

Eurocamp launches Active brand for 2014 offering four outdoor sports EUROCAMP AND its sister company Keycamp have been unified under the Eurocamp banner, resulting in one brand – Eurocamp. The company has this year launched a new sub-brand, 'Eurocamp Active' which offers guests ideal bases to participate in four outdoor sports - road cycling, climbing, walking and summer skiing. The offering ranges from the provision of cycling routes and maps, to guided and self-guided walks at varying levels, access to local ski resorts and a stay on the doorstep of some of

Europe’s most popular climbing spots. As an example, one of the new parcs is Camping le Capeyrou in the Dordogne. Facilities include a heated swimming pool, children’s pool, fishing and sports including badminton, volleyball, boules and canoeing. A seven-night break staying in a safari tent (which sleeps six) from April 26 costs from £161.45 per party on an accommodation-only basis and includes a saving of £45.55. Ferry crossings and fly/drive packages are available at a supplement.

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holidayparks We asked our staff the following question this week: What’s something you wish everyone knew about you? Publisher: Jeanette Ratcliffe jeanette.ratcliffe@travelbulletin.co.uk How thin I was aged 21!

Editor: Lauretta Wright lauretta.wright@travelbulletin.co.uk That I really love spending time chasing people for their answers to the weekly staff question

Assistant Editor: Jill Sayles jill.sayles@travelbulletin.co.uk A colleague recently said I look like I’m a Downton Abbey fan - I’m not a fan

Contributing Editor: Paul Scudamore post@travelbulletin.co.uk That deep, deep down in the bowels of my being, I had a sense of humour

Sales Director: Simon Eddolls simon.eddolls@travelbulletin.co.uk That I'm quite happy not to go to the bar first

Advertisement Manager: Tim Podger tim.podger@travelbulletin.co.uk Nothing else to know - I am Sagittarius and wear my heart on my sleeve!

Online Sales Manager: Nick Boocock nick.boocock@travelbulletin.co.uk

CANVAS HOLIDAYS has launched a range of new accommodation including luxury safari tents and Italian designed ‘moda’ mobile homes. Deluxe safari tents (pictured) have been introduced to four sites in France and feature two bedrooms, an open-plan living and dining area, separate kitchen and a terrace with a barbecue. The tent is fully plumbed, offering guests a toilet and shower cubicle. The new accommodation is bookable for guests staying at Pierrefitte (Lorraine), Berny Riviere (near Paris), St. Julien (Biarritz) and Marennes (Charente-Maritime). A selection of contemporary mobile homes accommodating up to eight people has also been launched exclusively at Italian campsites Camping Eden, close to Lake Garda, and Camping Marina di Venezia near Venice. Guests can choose from two- or three-bed Moda mobile homes which feature a separate lounge area, terrace, fridge-freezer, microwave and air-conditioning. Meanwhile, the company has added three new campsites - Bella Austria, St Peter am Kammersberg in Austria; Esterel Camping in St. Raphael, France; and Comocchio, Camping Tahiti in the Emilia Romagna region of Italy. For details see www.canvasholidays.co.uk or call 0845-268 0827.

The meaning of my surname: cheery fellow

Account Manager: Bill Coad bill.coad@travelbulletin.co.uk I really am not that good looking

Sales Executive: Chris Gascoine chris.gascoine@travelbulletin.co.uk That I'm really a genius with an IQ of over 185!

Sales Executive: Matt Gill matt.gill@travelbulletin.co.uk I’m Batman

Senior Designer: Genaro Santos genaro.santos@travelbulletin.co.uk Nicky gets on my nerves!!

Assistant Designer: Nicky Valsamakis nicky.valsamakis@travelbulletin.co.uk I was drag racing with the Biebs last week ...

Production: Nick Salt production@travelbulletin.co.uk I have a wooden left leg.

Circulation Manager: Jim Merchant post@travelbulletin.co.uk Travel Bulletin is published by Alain Charles Publishing (Travel) Ltd University House, 11-13 Lower Grosvenor Place, London, SW1W 0EX, Tel: 020-7834 6661 Printed by: Wyndeham Grange Limited Subscriptions are £125 p.a. £195 overseas ISSN: 0956-2419

Isle of Wight’s Canvas Village invests in glamping accommodation CANVAS VILLAGE on the Isle of Wight's Whitecliff Bay is investing £130,000 in new glamping accommodation this year. Ten new Canvas Cottages will be added, each sleeping up to eight people, while ten of the existing 12 glamping Bell Tents will be replaced with new, more luxurious versions. The new accommodation will feature quirky names, candle lanterns, fairy lights and bunting, and the tents are equipped with double futon sofa beds, two single beds, a TV, fridge, double gas burner, kitchenware, electric lights and a 240V plug socket. Carl Castledine, managing director of Away Resorts, which owns the Canvas Village, said: “The Bell Tents and Canvas Cottage are popular with our guests who want to camp but are keen to know that there will some of the creature comforts that they cherish. “Since we introduced them in 2011, they have been a huge success and we thought now was the time to reinvest in the Canvas Village in time for the peak 2014 season.” The park, which is located in Bembridge, offers its own beach with a range of activities and a chill-out zone called the Magic Loungeabout. There is also an outdoor cinema during the peak season. Prices lead in at £475 for seven nights in a Canvas Cottage from May 24.

puzzlesolutions Crossword: Across: 1. RAMADA, 4. CARR, 8. FUNCHAL, 9. LOT, 10. ERIE, 12. STENA, 15. AMMAN, 16. OAHU, 19. VAL, 20. EASYJET, 22. SARK, 23. TOULON. Down: 1. REFLEX, 2. MAN, 3. DOHA, 5. ATLANTA, 6. RITZ, 7. ZLOTY, 11. ICMELER, 13. HAVEN, 14. BUXTON, 17. AVIS, 18. OSLO, 21. JAL.

Highlighted Word: MUSCAT Travagrams: (top) Diamond Rail Holidays

(bottom) Mercure

Where Am I?: Bali

January 31 2014

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(1) Ponant bonus fare based on two people sharing a cabin, excluding pre/post transport, port and security taxes. Ponant bonus fare is susceptible to change depending on the availability at the moment of the reservation. More informations at www.ponant.com Photo Credits : © Compagnie du Ponant, Istockphoto.

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Luxury Cruising by Compagnie du Ponant

ADRIATIC AND AEGEAN SEA: THE ULTIMATE YACHTING EXPERIENCE Taking a cruise with Compagnie du Ponant in the Mediterranean offers you a perfect combination of relaxation, exclusivity and cultural discoveries across a range of locations such as Venice, Kotor and Athens. The 132-cabin, 5-star yacht LE SOLÉAL reaches some of the Mediterranean’s best kept secrets whilst treating guests to unrivalled passenger service, the ﬁnest cuisine and a bilingual crew ready to tend to your every need. Discover the treasures of the World by sea.

Summer 2014 - 13 departures from € 1250(1)

Start your journey on ponant.com

Contact your travel agency or call our UK call centre

0800 980 40 27