Selling Travel March 2016

MARCH 2016 • SELLINGTRAVEL.CO.UK

TRAVEL TRADE PUBLICATION OF THE YEAR

THE WORLD IN ONE MAGAZINE

ENTER THE DRAGON Let Hong Kong's heady mix of Asian and Western cultures breathe life into your sales

how to sell...

Hong Kong Abu Dhabi Jerusalem The Gambia Family Holidays Caribbean Update River Cruising and more...

Plus programmes, incentives, competitions and prizes from our online training partner

contents

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this issue - we travel further to bring you more JERUSALEM

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FEATURES 8 Hong Kong: Where east and west collide 14 Jerusalem: A biblical city 31 Abu Dhabi: Arabia's cultural hub 34 Worldwide family holidays: Family fun, the 53 58 62 65

world over Caribbean: Regional product update Luxury cruising: High-end on the high seas The Gambia: A destination in recovery Oman: A fast-emerging powerhouse

QUICK READS 13 Six of the best: Alberta pastimes 26 Visit USA: Association members' news 28 My Journey: Hautes Alpes 30 How to sell: Three valleys 42 City profile: Las Vegas 60 State profile: Tennessee 82 The Final Word

RIVER CRUISING

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THE REVIEW 45 Top news stories plus show reports from the

ABU DHABI

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Caribbean and Asia and hotel reviews from Manila and Amsterdam

TALKING SHOP 19 News, competitions, incentives & fam trips.

RIVER CRUISING 67 The essential guide to river cruising across the globe. Read about new ships, intergenerational cruising and much more.

Please note that Selling Travel, owned and published by BMI Publishing Ltd., is not connected in any way to Selling Travel e-magazine published by SMP Training Co. and based in British Columbia, Canada. The latter online publication focuses exclusively on sales skills and all aspects of professional selling within the travel and tourism sectors. To benefit from this travel industry sales training resource visit www.sellingtravel.net

Sally Parker

Sally enjoyed the sun and sea of the Bahamas while attending the Caribbean Marketplace travel trade show.

Julie Baxter

Julie flew to New York to re-aquaint herself with the city that never sleeps and its everchanging streets.

Steve Hartridge

Steve braved the icy cold of Alaska to attend the Go West Summit in Anchorage to get the latest on this region

Laura Gelder

While in Amsterdam Laura fitted in some marathon training around Vondelpark and visited the Rijksmuseum

Visit Malta

@visitmaltauk

welcome

welcome

Travel Trade Publication of the Year

Proudly published by BMI Publishing Ltd 2016 © 2016.

Suffolk House, George St, Croydon, Surrey, CR9 1SR, UK T 020 8649 7233 | F 020 8649 7234 enquiries@bmipublishing.co.uk www.bmipublishing.co.uk www.sellingtravel.co.uk Publishers: Steve Thompson & Sally Parker Commercial Director: David Clare Editorial Director: Steve Hartridge Group Editor: Jo Austin Contributing Editor: Alan Orbell Journalists: Andy Hoskins, Julie Baxter & Laura Gelder Junior Journalists: Ben Coren & Cameron Roberts Business Development Manager: Craig McQuinn Advertisement Manager: Lisa Merrigan Creative Director: Matt Bonner Art Director: Tina-Lee McDougall Designers: Louisa Horton & Ross Clifford Junior Designer: Zoë Tarrant Production Manager: Clare Hunter Circulation Manager: Cheryl Staniforth Managing Director: Martin Steady We are members of the Caribbean Tourism Organization, Visit USA Association, LATA, PATA, MENATA, SATOA, the Foreign Airlines Association and the Institute of Travel & Tourism.

Whilst every effort is made to ensure accuracy, BMI Publishing cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions.

ISSN: 2056-9319. Cover image: Asian dragon © istockphoto.com

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– dedicated to those who love selling travel –

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s the UK’s only true travel training magazine, our guiding principle when putting together our features, news and other pages, is compiling information that helps you sell more – and more effectively - to your clients.

Regular readers know that at Selling Travel it is mainly about destinations: that is, knowing them better, understanding their key products, and appreciating how they fit into itineraries (whether as a standalone, a twin-centre or part of a larger regional touring itinerary).

That thought was reinforced to me recently during a flight between Iceland and Seattle. As our Icelandair plane cruised along somewhere over the mid-Atlantic, red, yellow and purple lights flickered inside the cabin.

Steve Hartridge These were meant to imitate the Northern Lights, one of Iceland’s bestEDITOR known attributes, of course. It was a reminder that for most destinations, good marketing boils down to reinforcing those handfuls of attributes, or selling points, that help them catch the eye of potential visitors.

I was on my way to Alaska, to attend the Go West Summit – representing the only UK travel trade magazine to do so. This is an annual event designed to showcase the tourism attractions and products of the westernmost states of the USA, from Texas to Alaska and points in-between such as Idaho, Montana and South Dakota. It is a show attended by many regional and local tourist boards, all hoping to showcase to international buyers – such as tour operators and the media – why their areas are worthy of inclusion in a brochure or article such as the ones we put together at Selling Travel.

You can read about some of the key news that came out of Go West in the next issue.

As you can see, we don’t take our tagline - 'We Travel Further to Bring You More' - lightly, recognising that the richest stories are found at the source, just as the best recommendations are made from experience.

Finally, don't forget to read our latest supplements covering Mauritius, New York State and Alabama, more on them below...

SUBSCRIBE FOR FREE! www.sellingtravel.co.uk/subscribe

SUPPLEMENTS DISTRIBUTED WITH THIS ISSUE...

2016 Guide to Mauritius

How to Sell New York State

Sweet Home Alabama Travel Guide

Find out why Mark Twain said that Heaven was copied after Mauritius. This essential guide has all the latest trends, new hotels and inspiration

There's a whole lot to see New York outside of the Big Apple.

State Read about the state's vineyards and farm-totable food scene, amazing outdoors and vivid history.

Home of musical legends like Hank Williams and heroes like Rosa Parks, Alabama combines Southern comfort food, natural wonders and inspiring history

C U L T U R E

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S P O R T S

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F A M I L I E S

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A D V E N T U R E

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R O M A N C E

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W E L L B E I N G

15/02/2016 15:15

HOW TO SELL

Sell more of New York State to clients by reading about the regions, experiences and attractions experienced by UK, Irish and German travel agents and tour operators on a state-wide familiarisation trip

NYS-Cover-FINAL.indd 1

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2/19/16 01:14 PM

Travel Guide

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2/22/16 02:42 PM

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events & festivals

reasons for seasons – travel experiences that help shape a booking – PFLASTERSPEKTAKEL The city of Linz, Austria, will play host to some of the world’s foremost street performers from July 21-23 2016.

Pflasterspektakel brings dancers and improv theatre, clownery and aerial artistry to the city and fills it with oddities and artistries for clients to marvel at. austria.info

CROP OVER A harvest festival celebrating the end of the sugar season in Barbados, Crop Over is a great opportunity for visitors to get involved in the relaxing vibes that make the Caribbean island so unique.

The festivities include calypso contests, partying and market stalls springing up all over the island. The next Crop Over will run June 4 - August 1. visitbarbados.org

HENLEY ROYAL REGATTA

ROUKETOPOLEMOS Some Easter traditions include egg hunts and eating hot cross buns but in the Greek town of Vrontados the annual Rouketopoloemos or 'rocket war' sees two churches fill the sky with 60,000 fireworks.

This is actually rather tame compared to the original event, which was conducted using real cannons until the late 19th century. Clients should visit the town on April 4 to watch the war, preferably from a safe distance. isitgreece.gr

INDIANAPOLIS 500 For those with a ‘need for speed’ Indianapolis 500 is perfect. Fast cars, one race, 200 laps, 500 miles and a plethora of partying and show cars to boot. The highlight of the event is the so-called ‘snake pit’ which involves hours of booze, dancing and music beside one of the tracks most exciting turns. Indiana, USA, celebrates its 100th run of the race May 29, 2016. indianapolismotorspeedway.

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A truly royal affair, the Henley Royal Regatta brings together the upper crust of English society and those interested in a rare day out in the sun. The event involves huge numbers of watercrafts making their way down the River Thames, to take part in over 20 events and over 200 races. The Henley Royal Regatta will run from June 29 – July 3. hrr.co.uk

TOP AC TIO S N O N N NEW IN SUMMER 201

AND THE CHANCE TO CHILL TO

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A Discovery Cove Ultimate Package is like 2 holidays in 1.

Scream for pulse-racing coasters, exhilarating water rides and new thrills like Mako at SeaWorld and Cobra’s Curse at Busch Gardens.

There’s also the chance to make new friends with amazing animal encounters, and then relax on white sand beaches, lazy rivers and more. It’s Orlando like you’ve never experienced before.

Experience all four parks with the Discovery Cove Ultimate Package. Includes an all-inclusive day at Discovery Cove (dolphin swim or non-dolphin swim), 14 days unlimited admission to SeaWorld Orlando, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, and Aquatica. Free unlimited parking too!

Contact your preferred travel provider.

Package includes one all inclusive day at Discovery Cove and unlimited admission to SeaWorld, Aquatica and Busch Gardens for 14 consecutive days from first use. Guests must be at least 6 years of age to swim with the dolphins. Guests aged 6-12 must be accompanied by a paying adult who is also participating in the dolphin swim experience. Children aged 3-5 must purchase the non-dolphin swim package.

Free bus transportation is available to Busch Gardens on the Busch Gardens Shuttle Express. Unlimited free parking at SeaWorld, Aquatica and Busch Gardens is only valid for the duration of your ticket. This offer can be withdrawn or changed at any time. © 2016 SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

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hong kong

A taxi drives through Hong Kong’s Central district

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hong kong

From boat tours to scenic hikes to the city markets, there’s no shortage of ways to tap into Hong Kong’s fascinating mix of Western, Chinese and other Asian influences, says Karl Cushing

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ong Kong looks great from many angles but seldom better than from the confines of a Crystal Cabin on the Ngong Ping 360 gondola car ride.

Making the 25-minute climb from Tung Chung on Lantau Island’s northern coast to Ngong Ping Village at the top, the glass-floored cabins reveal stunning views over Tung Chung Bay. Then you switch to start the ascent over the green peaks of Lantau North Country Park.

Lantau offers a great place to get away from it all, the perfect antidote to that well-known Hong Kong hubbub.

From catching sun rises and falls atop Lantau Peak and Sunset Peak to bobbing around the photogenic old fishing village of Tai O, taking boat tours to see the pink dolphins, it’s a great place to explore.

So while the summit at Ngong Ping Village reveals some touristy retail attractions and star attractions, the big bronze Tian Tan Buddha and Po Lin Monastery, for me it is all about the slow scenic hike back down, pausing to drink in the incredible views.

Laid-back Lamma Island and Hong Kong’s ’back garden’ Sai Kung are two other great places to kick back and while away some time. Alongside its open spaces and beaches Sai Kung is home to the classic Maclehose Trail which, along with routes such as the Dragon’s Back to Sek O, attracts walking tour specialists such as Ramblers Worldwide.

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Easy to explore If all the above sounds too energetic there’s no shortage of other ways to explore Hong Kong’s beguiling mix of Western, Chinese and other Asian influences which have made it the world’s top visited city by far. Indeed, according to Euromonitor International, it received 27.8 million visitors in 2014 — more than 50% more than second-placed London.

Local taxis are excellent value and the three main areas — Hong Kong Island, Kowloon and the New Territories — are crisscrossed by the ever-expanding MTR Network and tramways, including Hong Kong Island’s famous doubledeckers and the classic vertiginous tram ride up The Peak which affords superb views of Victoria Harbour and beyond. Grab a pre-paid Octopus card for added convenience.

“Book a hotel room with a view of Hong Kong harbour to give your clients a really unforgettable experience and suggest a Symphony of Lights Harbour Cruise — it’s the most frequently requested excursion” ERICA MOORE FAR EAST PRODUCT MANAGER WESTERN & ORIENTAL

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hong kong

From top: the Tian Tan Buddha on Lantau Island; the fishing town of Tai O; streetside butcher.

For a more sensory experience, take to Family favourites: Top picks for kids the water. The old Star Ferry linking Kowloon include Hong Kong Disneyland on and Hong Kong Island is an excellent, cheap Lantau (hongkongdisneyland.com) and Hong Kong Island’s Ocean Park theme park, followed by a way to experience the bustling harbours. trip to the nearby beach at Repulse Bay. Other tourist staples include sampan boat Make a date: Local events such as tours and blowout meals on floating seafood rugby’s Hong Kong Sevens (March), Hong restaurants such as Jumbo and Tai Pak in Kong Marathon (February); the Chinese New Aberdeen Harbour’s ‘Floating Village’.

Year Celebrations (February); and July’s Plus, with its glitzy casinos, historic three-day Dragon Boat Carnival on Victoria centre and Portuguese treats such as Natas Harbour offer great selling hooks. custard tarts, Macao is just an hour away by Wheely good fun: Hire a bike and check ferry, with day trips offered by the likes of out one of the easygoing cycling routes Dosomethingdifferent (dosomethingdifferent.com/ destinations/hong_kong), priced at £116 for adults. such as Tai Po to Tai Mei Tuk, Sha Tin to Wu Kai Hayes and Jarvis Destination Manager Matt Sha or Sha Tin to Tai Po. Horses for courses: If you’re in town on Clift says: “Hong Kong is always a popular a Wednesday evening head to Happy choice with our customers whether it’s for an Valley Racecourse before 19.00 for a drink, a bite individual trip to explore the amazing city or and a flutter. The atmosphere is electric and it’s as part of a stopover on route to other parts just 10HKD to get in. of Asia or Australia.”

Park life: Local The latter point is green spaces such as echoed by Western “The main attraction on Hong Kong Park offer a & Oriental Far East Product Manager Lantau is the Big Buddha but welcome refuge. For added Erica Moore who I’d recommend a visit to the calm head to Kowloon Park’s says Hong Kong is old fisherman’s village of Tai Chinese Garden or drop by Victoria Park near Causeway particularly well paired O where homes are built on Bay to see locals doing their with destinations in stilts over the water and morning Tai Chi. The Botanic South East Asia.

“Hong Kong— people live simple and serene Gardens and Wetland Park are also great spots for Bali twin centre lives. It’s a total contrast to trips are proving the city and the residents are gentle strolls.

Cultured pearls: particularly popular always so welcoming” For artistic spaces with honeymooners MATT CLIFT, DESTINATION MANAGER, and performance venues try looking to combine HAYES AND JARVIS Hong Kong Cultural Centre a buzzing city break (lcsd.gov.hk); Hong Kong City with beach and Hall (cityhall.gov.hk); Hong relaxation,” she says.

Understandably, many China tours start or end Kong Arts Centre (hkac.org.hk); or Fringe Club (hkfringeclub.com). Sunbeam Theatre is the place for here too. Options range from Intrepid Travel’s (intrepidtravel.com) China Family Holiday to cycling Cantonese Opera. trips from G Adventures (gadventures.com) and On The Go’s (onthegotours.com) ‘Hutongs to Hong Kong’. What’s new  Attractions: Current local hotspots Perfect 10 include the creative centres of West Kowloon Retail therapy: With no local sales tax Cultural District (westkowloon.hk) and Central bargains are aplenty. Top spots include Causeway Bay and Admiralty, Central and SoHo on Hong Kong Island. Tsim Sha Tsui on Kowloon has Hong Kong’s largest mall, Harbour City.

On the market: For more savvy shopping and foodie treats try the labyrinthine Stanley Market in Aberdeen; Temple Night Street Market; and Ladies Market on Tung Choi Street in Mong Kok, Kowloon.

Strike a light: Victoria Harbour’s skyline is even more impressive each evening at 20.00 when a free 13-minute light and laser show illuminates buildings on both sides of the harbour.

Beach to their own: Prime sandy spots include Cheung Chau island, Cheung Sha on Lantau and Shek O on Hong Kong Island.

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hong kong

“The Autumn Wine & Dine Festival is a great opportunity to promote Hong Kong to any food lover. It begins with hundreds of stalls set against the stunning backdrop of Victoria Harbour followed by a month of events such as street carnivals, culinary-themed tours, wine-pairing meals and dining offers” JOHN PARKER, PRODUCT MANAGER, PREMIER HOLIDAYS

District. The latter is home to the edgy Wong Chuk Hang art district, where top picks include Spring Workshop, Para Site and Yallay Space, while the redevelopment of the site around the former Central Police Station Tai Kwun on Hollywood Road, due to open late 2016, will offer yet another creative hub backed by dining and retail outlets.

The former Hollywood Road Police Married Quarters has also been revitalised into the creative and design hub PMQ (pmq.org.hk), backed by retail and dining options such as Jason Atherton’s third restaurant in Hong Kong, Aberdeen Street Social (aberdeenstreetsocial.hk).  Excursions: For some interesting, insightful excursion options check out Explore Hong Kong Tours, a collaboration between Hong Kong Tourist Board and local ground handlers.

Highlights include Kowloon nightlife tours and foodie trips around Tai Po in the New Territories (discoverhongkong.com).  Airlines: Cathay Pacific (cathaypacific.com) will launch a new service from Gatwick to Hong Kong, operating four times a week, from September 2016, bolstering its Heathrow and Manchester services. It also plans to rebrand its regional Dragonair (dragonair.com) service as Cathay Dragon.  Accommodation: Recent hotel openings include Holiday Inn Express Mongkok (ihg.com/holidayinnexpress/hotels) and Perkin Hotel in Tsim Sha Tsui.

Future openings for this year include iclub To Kwa Wan and a Shangri-La development at Hung Hom Bay while Disney Explorers Lodge and Ocean Park Marriott are due to open in 2017.

Tourism talk “Last year, Hong Kong welcomed over 529,505 visitors from the UK, representing a 1.7% year-on-year growth. Following the announcement of the London Gatwick to Hong Kong route from Cathay Pacific, and new cultural hub openings in Hong Kong, we are optimistic for more growth in 2016.

“We are always looking for new ways to work with the UK trade and last year we launched two joint marketing campaigns, partnering with Premier Holidays and Lotus-DialAFlight.

“In the coming months we will be highlighting Hong Kong’s varied experiences through a number of exciting trade campaigns, training sessions, fam trips and events, including our annual Hong Kong Travel Mission to the UK in March. Plus, Travel Counsellors has chosen Hong Kong as the destination for its 2016 Gold Weekend, taking place in May.” Dawn Page, Director UK & Northern Europe, Hong Kong Tourism Board

Where to book it  TRAVEL 2 – 0800 0224182 Five nights (room-only) in a standard room at the four-star Metropark Causeway Bay start from £749pp for travel May 1–July 20 2016, including transfers and flights from London. travel2.com

 PREMIER HOLIDAYS – 08444 937 542 An 11-night Hong Kong and China break starts from £2,289pp for selected dates between April 10-October 30 2016. The price includes Cathay Pacific flights from Heathrow, three nights’ room-only at Harbour Plaza North Point Hong Kong and an eight-night, full-board escorted tour of Beijing, Xian and Shanghai. trade.premierholidays.co.uk

 RAMBLERS WORLDWIDE HOLIDAYS – 01707 331133

The two-week Discover Hong Kong Islands, Countryside, Coasts & Culture walking tour is priced from £2,025pp, based on a November 4 2016 departure, with flights, half-board (except for two dinners) accommodation at the four-star Hotel Metropark, Kowloon and the services of a tour leader. ramblersholidays.co.uk 

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From top: Cheung Chau Beach; enjoying a sampan tour

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advertorial: focus on

Cathay Pacific - Exciting updates for the Chinese Year of the Monkey -

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016 is set to be a great year for Cathay Pacific, what with the launch of a new route from London Gatwick and extensive lounge improvements in both Heathrow and Manchester.

WHAT’S NEW?

• Cathay Pacific will fly a new four-timesweekly service from London’s Gatwick Airport, starting this September.

• The new and exclusive service will operate aboard state-of-the-art new A350 aircraft featuring enhanced Business, Premium Economy and Economy Class cabins.

• Cathay Pacific’s London Heathrow lounge in T3 will reopen this August following extensive renovations which reflect Cathay Pacific’s “Life Well Travelled” philosophy. The lounge is designed by Studio Ilse, drawing on the core principles of wellbeing, comfort and privacy.

• Manchester Airport’s Escape Lounge will reopen following a refurbishment in April 2016, and will be available to eligible Cathay Pacific passengers.

WHY FLY WITH CATHAY PACIFIC? Cathay Pacific offers exceptional convenience for UK travellers, with five daily flights from Heathrow, four weekly flights from Manchester and, from September 2, four weekly flights from Gatwick.

Flying Cathay Pacific means a comfortable nonstop flight to vibrant Hong Kong, where you can connect to over 180 destinations worldwide.

The unrivalled choice in Asia includes 22 cities in China. Connecting to Down Under is easy too, with a choice of seven cities in Australia and New Zealand.

As one of only seven airlines to have been awarded a five-star rating from airline review experts Skytrax, you can count on Cathay Pacific to deliver a world-class service. •

WIN!

WIN A TRIP FOR TWO TO HONG KONG*

AGENTS HAVE THE CHANCE TO TEST OUT THE HONG KONG CARRIER’S PREMIUM PRODUCT THEMSELVES WITH A NEW INCENTIVE FROM CATHAY PACIFIC. SUCCESSFULLY COMPLETE CATHAY PACIFIC’S ONLINE TRAINING BEFORE APRIL 30 AND YOU’LL BE ENTERED INTO A PRIZE DRAW TO WIN A PAIR OF PREMIUM ECONOMY CLASS TICKETS TO HONG KONG FROM LONDON OR MANCHESTER – YOUR CHOICE! * T&Cs apply. Go to cathaypacificacademy.com for full T&Cs.

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Clockwise: Relaxing in The Pier First Class Lounge, Hong Kong; onboard in Business Class; being entertained in Premium Economy

To learn more and be entered into the prize draw, visit the Cathay Pacific Academy... cathaypacificacademy.com

six of the best

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ALBERTA for pastimes Whatever your clients’ passion, special interest or obsession at home, be sure they know they can keep connected to their favourite pastimes in Alberta too!

CULTURE VULTURES Those hungry for arts and culture are spoilt for choice in Alberta.

Edmonton is renown as the Festival City thanks to its annual International Fringe each August, plus folk, jazz and film festivals throughout the year. Beyond its top-notch museums and galleries, Calgary is also home to Fort Calgary, the Glenbow Museum and The Heritage Park which tells the story of Canada’s early pioneers. From Edmonton further insights can be gained at the Ukrainian Village and Fort Edmonton Park. For music lovers, The National Music Centre opens in Calgary in June and the Winspear Centre for Music is home to the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra.

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ADRENALINE JUNKIES Easily accessible from Calgary, the Canada Olympic Park will get their pulses racing with a zipline ride off the top of the Olympic Ski Jump, or send them racing 1.8km of twists and turns dropping over 100 metres on the the world’s longest Luge track at Skyline Luge. They can make a splash with a rafting trip such as those offered by Mukwah Rafting tours on the Red Deer River or thrill to the adventure of a Rocky Mountain Canyoning experience heading deep down into Jasper’s water-filled gorges and valleys.

Wellness breaks are much more than just a fashion now and for those who include yoga, spa-time and and some quiet meditation in their routines, Alberta is standing by to support their lifestyle choices while they travel.

Check out the Fairmont spas, especially in Banff and Jasper, for some perfect pampering and check them into The Banff Upper Hot Springs, famed for its health giving properties since the 1920s. Yoga and meditation classes are available provincewide and for the ultimate lift in spirits suggest a heli-yoga tour to practice in the mountains.

LEARN MORE: winsport.ca; skylineluge.com; mukwah.com; jasperrafttours.com

LEARN MORE: hotsprings.ca; rockiesheli.com

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LEARN MORE: fringetheatre.ca/festival; glenbow.org; fortcalgary.com; glenbow.org; heritagepark.ca; ukrainianvillage.ca; fortedmontonpark.ca

CYCLING SENSATIONS The lure of the Lycra and the power of the pedal has taken the UK by storm in recent years and cyclists will feel right at home in Alberta, just made for mountain bikers, and a plethora of well-marked trails await. Routes such as the Banff Legacy Trail (from Banff to Canmore) offer gentle scenic cycling along a 26km trail with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. For wheelie adventures of a slightly different kind check out the Segway hire available in the Edmonton River Valley.

Mountain Madness Tours plans all-inclusive, supported cycling tours in the Rockies with bikes included in the package.

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LEARN MORE: banfflakelouise.com; rivervalleyadventure.com; mountainmadnesstours.com

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YOGIC SPIRITS

FOODIE FANATICS From private cookery courses in Edmonton to craft beer tours in Calgary, Alberta can tick all the right boxes for those with a passion for a taste sensation or two. The province has a thriving beef and agricultural heritage to explore at farmers markets and through foodie experiences such as dining in an historic railway carriage or joining food tours with experts such as Food Tours Inc or Edmonton Seasoned Solutions. In Canmore a Progressive Dinner Tour serves starters at two restaurants, main course at another and dessert at a fourth. And Alberta has its own gin distillery too, open for tours and tastings.

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LEARN MORE: kitchenbybrad.ca; benchcreekbrewing. com; jasperbrewingco.ca; banffavebrewingco.ca; thegrizzlypaw.com; heritagepark.ca; aspencrossing.com; northlands.com; calgaryfoodtours.com; calgaryfoodtours. com; seasonedsolutions.ca; dining@tourismcanmore.com eauclairedistillery.ca

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OUTDOORSY TYPES

Alberta might well have been purposebuilt for lovers of the great outdoors with stunning scenery and easily accessible routes and facilities. For those who want to pull on their walking boots, highlight hiking on the Jasper Trail or suggest combining hikes with canoeing into the wilderness along the route of Canada’s early explorers or the 200km of hiking trails in Waterton National Park, often ranked in the top ten in Canada. For those with a head for heights the Via Ferrata on Mt. Norquay now offers an iconic climbing opportunity for all abilities, or at the opposite end of the scale how about a memorable journey below ground with a Canmore Cave Tour through the water-sculpted passages of one of Canada’s longest caves.

Alternatively, how about a bit of horsing around Alberta is unrivalled cowboy country and hacks are available for all abilities.

LEARN MORE: peacerivercanada.com; banffviaferrata. com; canmorecavetours.com; horseback.com

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jerusalem

favourite old

With its beguiling mix of the historic, biblical and modern, Israel’s capital is perfect for a dynamic city break or as part of a larger tour of Israel, says Andrew Sanger

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jerusalem

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icture a staircase on which all the steps the foot of Temple Mount, the immense Western are different sizes and heights. We Wall is Judaism’s most important place of prayer. quickly discover it’s difficult to walk Non-religious sights are equally fascinating. up or down. But that’s the very idea of it.

The Tower of David soars beside fortified Jaffa On an exquisite blue-sky morning so typical Gate. Outside the Old City, too, are plenty of of Jerusalem, we walk at a leisurely pace. must-sees, including the sombre Yad Vashem Jesus climbed these same stairs before us, as Holocaust memorial and the renowned Israel did prophets, priests and everyone who was Museum, housing the Dead Sea Scrolls. anyone in the Jerusalem of Bible times. Yet The Israeli capital is a uniquely rewarding city you don’t have to be even remotely religious break, and makes sense as part of a multi-centre to be awed by following in such footsteps.

Israel tour. It’s well placed for excursions to The Monumental Hulda Staircase was the Masada and the Dead Sea, while Tel Aviv is only main entrance to the Holy Temple on Jerusalem’s about an hour away, offering world-class art and Temple Mount. Golden stone steps alternate music, dining, shopping and miles of sandy beach. narrow and broad, forcing the throng of With the introduction of Monarch’s threeworshippers and pilgrims to pay close attention. times-weekly flights from Luton, four airlines They had to approach and leave without haste. now fly direct to Ben Gurion International from That still seems a good the UK – which means attitude to Israel’s ancient visitor totals should grow “Jerusalem’s unique capital as it takes time further during 2016. historic, archaeological to appreciate things. and religious sights and Perfect 10 Nowadays, the stairway is museums are Walking city: blocked by Al-Aqsa mosque, Downtown and the Hulda Staircase among the greatest Jerusalem is a traffic-free forms part of the Jerusalem in the world” zone, making for a mellow Archaeological Park on the scene of shoppers, busy south side of Temple Mount, cafés, entertainment, juice bars, buskers, stalls around the corner from the Western Wall where and boutiques.

Jews have stood in prayer ever since their temple Ancient stones: Breathe history, passion was destroyed by a furious Roman Emperor. and piety at the Western Wall, the world’s It’s been said that ‘the past is another country’, leading place of Jewish prayer. Beside it are the but there are countries where past, present and Western Wall Tunnels and the Archaeological Park. even future blend together inseparably. That’s Fortress Jerusalem: Grandest of Old City definitely Israel – and that’s certainly Jerusalem. fortification is the Citadel (or Tower of Leaving Archaeological Park we take a David), which vividly tells the city’s story and hosts detour into a Byzantine house, pass through a spectacular shows. medieval gateway and jump on a slick 21stGood start: All accommodation typically century tram to the exuberant, vivacious centre includes an Israeli breakfast of salads and of today’s new Jerusalem, just minutes away. savouries, fresh pastries and egg dishes.

O Jerusalem!

On the rock: The iconic landmark, Dome O Jerusalem! That’s a name to conjure with. Over of the Rock on Temple Mount, is an 3,000 years old, down the centuries it became architectural masterpiece – most enjoy it only almost mythical, a metaphor for a spiritual home.

For some visitors it comes as quite a surprise to discover that Israel’s capital is no metaphor – it’s a modern city, brimming with life and beautifully placed in the dry Judean Hills of eastern Israel.

Almost every building is faced with attractive pale limestone known as Jerusalem stone.

The sightseeing, of course, is breathtaking.

Most major sights are within the Old City, a historic district east of the city centre. Majestic gateways pass through its massive ramparts into a tangle of atmospheric lanes and historic buildings – as well as noisy souks, quiet corners, small museums, craft shops and art galleries.

Jerusalem’s great religious places are the main attraction. Christian pilgrims follow the Via Dolorosa to the Holy Sepulchre. Islam provides Main picture: there is a magical quality about Jerusalem’s the city’s most familiar landmark, the gilded Dome Old City, with its prevailing sacred atmosphere and narrow streets; above: The Dome of the Rock (yellow top) on Mount of the Rock, gleaming high on Temple Mount. At Moriah is a holy place for both Jews and Muslims

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Reach higher in Jerusalem

The ancient city of Jerusalem offers its visitors an experience like no other. Once the centre of the world, the city’s amazing history and spiritual atmosphere has long fascinated those who explore it.

Roaming the Old City’s maze of narrow cobbled streets and watching Jerusalem’s iconic skyline change colours as the sunsets, will be memories you‘ll treasure forever.

From its hidden gems to its visible jewels, Israel is indisputably the land of creation.

For our best deals visit uk.thinkisrael.com

Visit Israel

jerusalem

17

Tourism talk

MATT BONNER

“There is more to Jerusalem than its history. Outside of the Old City walls the city has a vibrant modern atmosphere and offers an exciting mix of restaurants, bars, nightclubs, shopping and art galleries. This year, IGTO is working with the Jerusalem Development Authority, which for the first time has appointed a UK office to implement integrated campaigns in order to educate the travel trade about both the Old City and the new city of Jerusalem.

“Israel has seen the introduction of even more flight routes from the national carrier, El Al, and easyJet, as well as new airlines entering the market such as Monarch Airlines.

“Throughout 2016, IGTO will continue the development of our online travel training programme, as well as promoting Israel’s capital city through joint ventures with our tour operator partners.”

Naama Oryan Kaplan, Director, Israel Government Tourist Office, UK and Ireland from the outside as the Islamic authorities do Nahalat Shiv’a, one of the most laid-back and not allow non-Muslims to enter. agreeable of the pedestrianised downtown areas.

Scroll down: View the Dead Sea Scrolls Upmarket hotel chain Isrotel (isrotel.com/aboutisrotel-timeline) is to open a luxurious new 250-room at the Israel Museum, which holds a property at the end of 2016 in the city centre’s dizzying spectrum of important art, artefacts and buzzing, sophisticated German Colony area, with archaeological collections.

Get local: The Old City divides into Jewish, its plethora of top-quality restaurants, trendy bars Muslim, Armenian and high-end boutiques. and Christian (or Greek)  Promotion: Jerusalem quarters, while Jerusalem’s Development Authority “Jerusalem is not just (jda.gov.il/english.aspx) districts also have their an ancient city holy to three has appointed a UK own distinctive appeal, such as hip German Colony, faiths, it’s also a fascinating representative to work within the IGTO, running religious Mea Shearim and multicultural mosaic Arab East Jerusalem. bringing together religious agent training and Never forget: Yad marketing campaigns as and secular, East and West, well as comprehensive Vashem, Israel’s past and present” Holocaust Museum and fam trips to Jerusalem.

Memorial, is not an ‘easy’ The JDA will also continue experience but is a working closely with IGTO must-visit for reasons that stretch beyond a to assist on UK national campaigns in 2016. fascination with history.  Festivals: A busy calendar of big-scale Spiritual path: Tread the Via Dolorosa to annual events and festivals now includes the the richly-decorated Holy Sepulchre, stunning Festival of Light (lightinjerusalem.org.il), May 25-June 5, displaying works in public, outdoor revered as the location of the Crucifixion and settings by artists whose medium is light itself.

Resurrection. Steeped in atmosphere, it attracts  Transport: The quickest way to nip around millions of pilgrims.

Top table: Israel excels in imaginative town is on the Light Rail (jet.gov.il), a smooth, cuisine served in relaxed, casual settings. quiet, state-of-the-art tramway running across Top names are Rachmo for Iraqi dishes, Jerusalem. Most useful to visitors is the section Machneyuda for market-inspired cooking, and along Jaffa Street, while from the Old City to Mantra for Mediterranean fine dining. the Downtown Triangle is just two stops.  Airlines: With the start of Monarch’s What’s new (monarch.co.uk) flights from Luton (Sundays,  Accommodation: The latest addition to Mondays and Thursdays), a total of four Jerusalem’s hotel scene is the just-opened scheduled carriers now fly direct from the UK Herbert Samuel Hotel Jerusalem (herbertsamuel. to Ben Gurion International Airport (between com), offering stylish and affordable five-star Jerusalem and Tel Aviv). The Monarch service comfort at the intersection of Jaffa Road and will continue until at least April 2016.

sellingtravel.co.uk

Where to book it  COX & KINGS – 020 3642 0861 Six nights in Jerusalem start from £1,340pp, including return flights with British Airways from London, private transfers from Tel Aviv airport, four-star accommodation and breakfast daily. coxandkings.co.uk  CYPLON – 0800 074 8888

The operator has a wide range of Jerusalem hotels and a choice of airlines, starting from £515pp for a week’s B&B at the threestar-deluxe Leonardo Hotel including return flights on Monarch from Luton. cyplon.co.uk

 KIRKER HOLIDAYS – 020 7593 1899 Seven nights B&B at Jerusalem’s three-star boutique Arthur Hotel is priced from £1,089pp, including British Airways flights from London, private transfers and Kirker’s concierge service. kirkerholidays.com 

From top: The Western – or Wailing – Wall, a remnant of the Second Temple which was destroyed by the Romans, is the holiest structure in Israel for Jews and a popular attraction for visitors; the moving Yad Vashem, or Holocaust Museum

Elegant Hotels Barbados

Elegant Hotels Barbados feature more than just golden sands and clear waters, but also an array of complimentary inclusions with every stay.

The House - Adults-Only Understated luxury and an award winning hotel with service Ambassadors catering to guests' every need. Enjoy complimentary features such as a jetlag massage, champagne breakfast, afternoon tea and evening canapĂŠs.

Colony Club

Tamarind

Turtle Beach - Premium

Located on the platinum West Coast, Tamarind is contemporary and ideal for couples and families with a prime beachfront location, open-air dining venues, three pools and spa. Guests will enjoy complimentary inclusions such as daily breakfast, watersports, WiFi, kid's club and family game room, beach and pool Ambassador service and more.

All-Inclusive, All-Suite Experience the ultimate in all-inclusive elegance at Turtle Beach, an all-suite enclave on the island's lively South Coast.

Guests will enjoy complimentary inclusions such as watersports, WiFi, kid's club, beach Ambassador service, unique Bajan activities and more. Great for multi-generational holidays.

A timeless West Coast retreat that appeals to those that enjoy the beach as well as an active lifestyle.

Enjoy newly renovated rooms and restaurant and guests will love the complimentary daily breakfast, watersports, WiFi, bespoke tours, organic garden, fitness centre and complimentary yoga & Pilates classes.

Crystal Cove Premium All-Inclusive Nestled on a beachside cliff, Crystal Cove is a charming resort with just 88 rooms located on the West Coast.

Enjoy three lagoon swimming pools and a romantic swim-up cave bar and complimentary inclusions such as watersports, WiFi, kid's club, beach and pool Ambassador service, fun Bajan activities and more.

Spring Savings up to 40% Off To book a holiday, call 0800 917 3534 Visit www.eleganthotels.com or contact your preferred tour operator partner

TRAVEL AGENT TRAINING & REWARDS Elegant Hotels offers an online training and rewards programme for travel agents. For more information visit: Eleganthotels.com/travel-agents

TAL K I N G S H O P

talking shop

19

- INSPIRED BY YOU The stuff that happens when agents get involved...

Canada calls with Westjet SPOTLIGHT ON...

Denise Hunn from Prestige Holidays, Richard Bowen, from Westjet, and Lyn Naylor, from Travel Alberta, turned the spotlight onto new flights to Canada at a roadshow for over 40 agents at Gatwick. The event showcased new non-stop services to Calgary and Edmonton from Gatwick, priced from £222 each way. Clients should book early to bag a bargain on the service which will operate five times a week to Calgary (May 8 – Oct 2) and twice weekly to Edmonton (May 7 to Oct 22). British Columbia, Ontario and Rocky Mountaineer representatives also attended. westjet.com

Contents 20 Wise Counsel 21 On Location 22 Out & About

HK in town TRAVEL MISSION TO THE UK

AGENTS can meet Hong Kong hoteliers, ground handling agents and attraction providers when the Hong Kong Travel Mission arrives in the UK for a trade event on March 7 at Bishopsgate, London.

For information or to register, email Eleanor.kelaher@hktb.com. discoverhongkong.com

Meet TIPTO GET PERSONAL WITH INDEPENDENTS

Abu Dhabi Mega Fam ABU DHABI Tourism is offering agents across the UK the chance to win a place on an exclusive Mega Fam trip it is running to Abu Dhabi.

Flying with Abu Dhabi’s national carrier, Etihad Airways, in groups departing from Heathrow, Manchester and Edinburgh, the winning agents will visit top

ai Travel 2 Dub

attractions such as Ferrari World Abu Dhabi and the iconic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and will experience Arabian hospitality and traditions throughout.

The group will stay at one of the city’s luxurious hotels for the three nights and attend a special final night event.

For a chance to join the trip visit

TRAVEL 2 is giving agents the chance to win a place on a luxury FAM trip to Dubai with its new 'Dubai Festivals' campaign. The operator has teamed up with Dubai Tourism, Emirates, Qantas and Kerzner International Resorts to promote Dubai's events and festivals. To enter the prize draw make a qualifying booking to Dubai with flights and three nights' ground arrangements.

Travel2.com

sellingtravel.co.uk/abu-dhabi and answer three simple questions on the destination. The Abu Dhabi Mega Fam will run from May 1–4 this year.

Agents can enter online and need to do so by Monday April 4, for a chance to win.

For further information visit: tcaabudhabi.ae

TIPTO has 14 Face 2 Face Roadshows and three SuperShows running across the country from March to June. Events run from 6pm, are free to attend and give agents access to 13 tour operators, special guest exhibitors and entertainment. Register at: tipto@ thenetwork-uk.com tipto.co.uk

Keep in mind...

15

– 17 MARCH THE LUXURY HOTELS ROADSHOW will include events in Bristol (Mar 15), Reading (Mar 16) and Stansted (Mar 17) continuing into April. Agents can meet a selection of hoteliers from Tenerife, Lanzarote, Madeira, La Gomera and Fuerteventura. To reserve a place: bookings@eventsfortravel.com eventsfortravel.com

COMING UP & ENDING SOON

17

MARCH UNITE in conjunction with Visit USA, is an informal, workshop-style event which provides a perfect opportunity for tour operators to hold pre-booked one-to-one meetings with hoteliers, representation companies, tourist offices, airlines and more within the US on one day and in one place. unitepromotions.co.uk More online at sellingtravel.co.uk/events

sellingtravel.co.uk

WISE COUNSEL 20

talking shop

Barbara Charlton

 Barbara.Charlton@travelcounsellors.com  01293 737290

Little choice for late-bookers MAKE HAY I for one am glad to see the spring marching in after a very busy January and February! I hope you have all been busy ‘making hay’ to get a good start to the year too. Getting the pennies in the pot early in the year gives everyone a boost, and when we get to phase two of the ‘crazy season’ in May, when late-bookers start calling, I think they’ll be surprised to find that many destinations they are hoping for a deal on, actually booked up quite early and they’ll need to pay full price.

Stunning Western Ireland is positioning itself as the Wild Atlantic With the sad loss of lower cost package Way - ideal for coastal road lovers destinations like Tunisia and the Red Sea which are now largely un-bookable beautiful 17th century house with huge this summer, we have seen resorts in rooms and bathrooms, a converted stable Spain, Western Greece and Portugal block and lovely country views. I hopped filling up early and at higher costs. My over to Western Ireland for a few days prediction is that the only real bargains too to explore its rugged countryside. On this summer will be to Turkey. arrival into the tiny Knock Airport, I noticed Certainly our top selling destinations so the local tourist board was marketing the far in 2016 have been The Canaries, Dubai, western coastline as the ‘Wild Atlantic Way’. and USA, particularly New York, California As coastal roads are doing and Vegas and I think the business in places appeal of long haul will really “My prediction great like California, Australia and increase as popular Med is that the only South Africa, I guess they are destinations are deemed too expensive. When travellers real bargains this after a slice of that action.

Ireland arguably has more see that, for the same price, summer will be endless Blue Flag beaches they can travel much further to Turkey” than anywhere else in afield they will go long haul.

Europe, and if the weather GET SHORTIES was more reliable, it would be covered I personally still like to stay local sometimes in parasols and sunbeds. For rugged and and am fast becoming addicted to short scenic countryside, romantic castle stays and breaks in the Cotswolds. Most recently I touring, it’s a great choice. Just be sure your was at the Wyck Hill House Hotel and Spa, client packs for all seasons because they a couple of miles from Stow-on-the-Wold, could well experience all four in one day! where the 2AA rosette restaurant was MIX AND MATCH excellent and great value. We stayed in a My next short break is to rural Mallorca when I am staying in two country boutique IRELAND properties with great wining and dining BARBARA ARGUABLY and near some beautiful beaches. The SAYS first is the Son Julia Country House near HAS MORE Llucmajor with glorious 300-year-old Arabic ENDLESS BLUE FLAG gardens, a spa and fine dining, which I’m BEACHES THAN matching with Son Servera, another new ANYWHERE ELSE IN area for me, where I’m staying at a gorgeous EUROPE AND FOR 18th century Finca hotel called Son Gener, which has just 10 junior suites. They look RUGGED AND SCENIC great – and all in the name of research COUNTRYSIDE, for my customers of course, and to gather ROMANTIC CASTLE some nice pictures for future marketing!

STAYS AND TOURING IT’S A GREAT CHOICE

IRELAND.COM

Happy selling!

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O N L O C AT I O N

talking shop

21

Attraction World makes splash at SeaWorld THE DETAILS WHAT: SEVEN-DAY FAM TRIP TO ORLANDO'S SEAWORLD PARKS. WHEN: JANUARY 23-29, 2016 WHO: SEAWORLD PARKS & ENTERTAINMENT AND ATTRACTION WORLD WHY: TO PROVIDE A FIRST HAND EXPERIENCE OF WHAT'S ON OFFER AT SEA WORLD PARKS

What they said...

“The old adage that you can’t sell anything until you experience it is so true. I can now talk with experience, passion and confidence about all the parks I visited It seems the agents on the Attraction World fam really ‘clicked’ with their dolphin at Discovery Cove Orlando in January. Names: (Back Row) Chantelle Plowman, Rebecca Harley, Samantha Griffiths, Heather Yerlett, Zoe Holt. (Front) Parveena Hull, Cindy Lau, Aurea Reis, Nichola Parr

during the week! It was a a fantastic trip."

Zoe Holt, Business Development Manager “The SeaWorld Parks fam trip was like a gold mine for me! Not only did I gain an

THE HOSTS

THE TRIP

SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment UK and Ireland Sales Manager, Nichola Parr, hosted eight Attraction World agents, business managers and marketing managers on a trip to Orlando, Florida. They visited Sea World, Discovery Cove, Busch Gardens and Aquatica, as well as a number of other popular attractions. Highlights included close encounters with wildlife, fast and thrilling experiences on some of Orlando’s biggest and best rollercoasters and evening entertainment.

The group spent their first five days at StaySky Suites, close to International Drive and Orlando's attractions and theme parks.

The property's suites come in various sizes and can accommodate both individuals and families.

The group spent a full day at Discovery Cove where they swam with dolphins and experienced Sea Venture, an underwater walking tour.

The following day, after an hour's drive, they arrived at Busch Gardens, Tampa, where a VIP tour helped them enjoy all the world-famous park has to offer.

Then it was on to Aquatica waterpark, followed by an evening shopping at Simon Premium Outlets. Simon owns two locations in Orlando, at Vineland Avenue and International Drive, with over 340 designer and brand name outlets.

The last full day and night was spent at SeaWorld, where their VIP status saw them 'queue jumping' for attractions and securing

reserved seating for shows. They also went behind the scenes at SeaWorld and discovered more about animal care and the park's rescue and conservation work.

THE VERDICT Seaworld's Nichola Parr said: “Hosting a fam trip like this is always beneficial. Whether you’re dealing with agents selling products or those working in the marketing or PR department, first-hand experience of the parks is key. We always get a great reaction from people, whether they are an adrenalin junkie who loves thrill rides or an animal lover who wants to swim with dolphins.

"The training we offer for our partners and agents in the UK is terrific but there’s nothing like seeing the parks and our animal rescue and rehabilitation projects for yourself.

"This was the first time many of the agents had visited our parks, so it really was a priceless opportunity to learn all about us.. . and it will make selling SeaWorld to their clients much easier. ”

sellingtravel.co.uk

invaluable insight into the parks and the SeaWorld Parks extras on offer but I was also able to experience the products right there and then.”

Heather Yerlett, Marketing Manager “I am extremely passionate about the SeaWorld Parks and to be able to pass on my experiences to my customers is invaluable. I think my enthusiasm will excite them to book. Being able to give my clients first-hand experience of the fantastic parks I visited on the fam is wonderful. Selling a product I believe in makes my job a lot easier.”

Chantelle Plowman, Sales Homeworker

talking shop

22

BEEN THERE done that

Agents in the frame...

Love is in the air

A MONTH - LONG promotion titled “Love is in the air!” has led to trade-only accommodation supplier Exclusively Hotels (part of JacTravel), handing over a 'dowry' of Love2Shop vouchers. Keith Hutchison from Location Travel (above left) was one of the first to fall for the charms of the incentive. JacTravel has recently won three tourism awards from UK Inbound, Scotland's Heritage and Accor Hotels UK. jactravel.co.uk

All things BRIGHT in Windsor OVER 40 travel agents from 30 agencies plus homeworkers, attended the second workshop of 2016 run by BRIGHT (Bringing Real Information & Guaranteed High Quality Training), held at the Beaumont Estate in Windsor. The intimate workshops at prestigious venues aim to make learning fun. Next will be events in Harrogate and Newcastle this month and in Preston in April. brightconsortia.com

y

ITC gets set to part

B

C

A

A BONNY Travel in Bonnybridge, Falkirk, Scotland was recently visited by Funway Holidays as part of a mini PEAKS training promotion. Pictured is Sharon Anderson (left) and Leigh Daisley (right).

B TRAVEL SOLUTIONS sales manager, Errol Howe has won a competition run by Great Lakes USA to celebrate the Ryder Cup retuning to the region. Howe won a Titleist golf bag.

C CONGRATULATIONS to Kim Spender, of

Hays Travel, who has won a seven-night holiday at a Dreamplace Hotel, in the Canary Islands in a competition with Monarch. The prize included flights, transfers and accommodation and was won by describing a dream holiday in 30 words or less. D LOUISE GRAY, Carib Tours, has been recognised by the Tourism Authority of Antigua and Barbuda for securing the highest revenue for the islands in November. Louise took a total of £99,721 in bookings for the month.

sellingtravel.co.uk

ITC has been awarded £1,000 towards a staff party by the Tourism Authority of Antigua and Barbuda in a recent sales incentive. Sarah Rayner (above left) and Natalie Russel-Blackburn Perkins (above right) also won shopping vouchers as the top two revenue earners in the company for the destination. azantiguabarbuda.com

D

W IN

FL S Y IG D HT N EY T ! O

A

Discover vibrant Sydney and New South Wales at the Destination NSW Trade Mission

Register to attend:

sellingtravel.co.uk/dnswmission

Join us in London & Manchester for the Destination NSW UK & Europe Trade Mission for the chance to win one of two flights to Sydney

J

oin us in London & Manchester for the Destination NSW UK & Europe Trade Mission for the chance to win flights to Sydney.

These events are a rare opportunity to meet face-to-face with 15 tourism suppliers from Sydney and New South Wales (NSW).

Participating suppliers include some of Sydney and NSW’s most iconic tourism attractions, hotel venues and touring routes.

To showcase its vibrant creative scene, Destination NSW will bring a live artist and musician straight from the streets of Sydney and you’ll enjoy some famous NSW wine and local food throughout the evening. By attending, you’ll have the chance to win one of two return flights to Sydney, courtesy of Qantas*.

Handa Opera, Sydney

Don’t miss out on your chance to learn more about Sydney and NSW! Numbers at each event are limited, register now to avoid disappointment

sellingtravel.co.uk/dnswmission Top NSW events for 2016 Looking for ways to make your client’s trip to Sydney and NSW that little bit more special? Then why not incorporate one of these top events into their trip to fully experience NSW art and culture.

Sydney Harbour

 Handa opera on Sydney Harbour March 24 – April 24 In 2016, Handa Opera presents Turandot: a Chinese fable of death-marked love. Director Chen Shi-Zheng will present the exotic fantasy at the water's edge in a pop-up opera house with purpose-built bars, restaurants and a grandstand under the stars and astounding views of the city skyline. opera.org.au  Bluesfest, Byron Bay March 24 – 28 Australia's premier blues and roots festival has six stages and more than 200 performances of the best blues, roots, folk, soul and world artists set in 120 hectares at Tyagarah Tea Tree Farm, just north of Byron Bay. In addition to the performances there will be licensed bars, undercover food courts and market stalls. Previous line-ups have included Bob Dylan, Jurassic 5 and James Brown. bluesfest.com.au

*Terms and conditions apply

 Vivid Sydney - Light, Music and Ideas May 27 – June 18 Mesmerising light installations and projections will illuminate iconic locations like the Sydney Opera House, The Rocks and Darling Harbour. Meanwhile, Vivid Music hosts an eclectic range of live performances and unique musical collaborations in citywide venues and Vivid Ideas showcases lectures from speakers like Mad Men creator Matthew Weiner. vividsydney.com  Sydney Fringe Festival September 1 – 30 Set across five cultural villages, the Sydney Fringe presents 300-plus productions in over 50 venues every September. As well as celebrating local artists the event encourages new audiences to experience the independent arts of Sydney. Acts on show range from theatre and film to stand-up comedy and interactive craft workshops. sydneyfringe.com

Street performer, Vivid Sydney

Cape Byron Bay Lighthouse

VISIT USA NEWS MARCH 2016

T H I S M O N T H ' S T O P S T O R I E S F R O M V I S I T U S A ' S M E M B E R S • V I S I T U S A .O R G .U K CITIES

Philly seen from on high



Events

Destinations puts USA on show EXHIBITORS in the Visit USA Pavilion at Destinations London, held at Olympia from February 4-7, saw a strong flow of interested USA-bound travellers who engaged with over 20 Visit USA members such as America As You Like It, North Carolina, My America Holiday, Kansas-Oklahoma and Bon Voyage.

"With the attendance appearing to be higher than last year, visitors were more engaged in discovering as much as they could about travel opportunities and experiences throughout the USA, and ways to create a bespoke multi-destination holiday, " commented Caroline DonaldsonSinclair, representing Vermont at the event.

"The map of the USA we handed out to visitors proved a hit. We will be continuing to work closely with our members to expand the Visit USA presence and maximise the visibility of the USA at this annual event,” added Donaldson-Sinclair, who is also a director of the Visit USA. visitusa.org.uk

“The Visit USA Pavilion is getting stronger each year as the Association develops new marketing tools to help the UK holidaymaker make the most of any USA experience” Caroline DonaldsonSinclair, Visit USA (UK)

THE new One Liberty Observation Deck, the tallest observation platform in Philadelphia, is now providing guests with a 360-degree view of the City of Brotherly Love.

The attraction is open 365 days a year and, aside from the supreme views, also offers a range of dining and shopping outlets on the ground floor of One Liberty Place.

Phillyfromthetop.com NATIONAL PARKS

U.S. parks on an epic scale BRAND USA’s big screen epic, America Wild – National Parks Adventure, which enjoyed its global release on February 12, is set to run for a year at the BFI Odeon in London.

The Immersive IMAX 3D film, released in celebration of the centennial year of the U.S. National Park Service and narrated by Robert Redford, takes audiences on the ultimate off-trail adventure into the nation's awe-inspiring great outdoors and untamed wilderness.

In 2015, a record 305 million people visited national parks across the USA, an increase of 12 million on the previous year. nationalparksadventure.com

THE USA in brief...

CITIES LOS Angeles, California, set a new tourism yardstick in 2015 by reaching 45.5 million visitors, the fifth consecutive year that the 'City of Angels' records have been broken.

The figure represents a 2.8% rise over 2014, although numbers from the UK increased by a more impressive 4.3%, totalling 342,000 visitors in 2015. The city hopes to attract up to 50 million visitors by 2020. discoverlosangeles.com



AIRLINES EVENT DELTA Air Lines is now offering highspeed Internet access on all trans-Atlantic flights between the U.S. and the UK. Delta’s wifi is provided by Gogo and powered by Ku-Band satellite technology. Customers can also enjoy free access to Delta Studio, an in-flight streaming service which allows them to view movies and TV options on their mobile devices. Delta offers up to 11 peak-day flights from Heathrow and one from Manchester. delta.com

HOTELS EVENT THE Aloft, a hotel offering 139 stylish ‘urban design’ rooms, has opened in Sarasota, Florida.

Located in the heart of downtown, guestrooms feature nine-foot-high ceilings, plush platform beds, fast and free wifi, 40-inch TVs, Aloft Bliss Spa bath amenities and walk-in rainfall showers. Nearby city attractions include the Ringling Museum of Art, Sarasota Opera House, Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, and Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium. visitsarasota.org

Look out for our Visit USA Association online Travel Update for the pick of members' news



MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

introducing...

TREKAMERICA is to introduce a new Hawaii Big Island Tour in April, which will see the operator offering all 50 U.S. states for the first time.

The eight-day tour will feature ocean-side camping under the stars, snorkeling with turtles, visiting one of the most active volcanoes in the world at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and exploring the inside of a lava tube at Thurston Lava Tube.

The tour leads in at £859pp (not including flights), which includes all equipment and transportation. trekamerica.co.uk

Manta Ray Inn DONNA BOUCHER, OWNER

CITIES

Newport campaigns for Brits NEWPORT Beach has launched its largest-ever international marketing effort in the UK, targeting consumers and travel agents.

The ‘Visit Newport Beach UK Holiday’ campaign seeks to incentivise tour operators to sell the Southern Californian destination, generate awareness and celebrate the Newport Beach Film Festival.

As a part of the campaign, Visit Newport Beach held an event last month for product managers and senior tour operators.

The next trade fam to visit Newport Beach will be an annual luxuryfocused fam in partnership with Air New Zealand, Santa Monica and Palm Springs. The itinerary is still to be finalised, but the dates will likely coincide with the annual film festival (April 21-28).

New hotels, restaurants and shopping areas are in the pipeline for 2016.

Plans for a new boutique hotel at Lido Marina Village, the Lido Inn, are moving forward and construction should be complete in 2017. Celebrated Japanese chef Nobu Matsuhisa, who has over 30 restaurants worldwide, will be opening a new sushi bar in Lido Marina Village this summer.

Last year 50,000 travellers from the UK visited Newport Beach. visitnewportbeach.com



FUNWAY Holidays has a 10-night twin-centre holiday to Hawaii and San Francisco that includes a week on Waikiki Beach and three days in the City by the Bay. Priced from £1,649pp, the deal, based on two adults sharing, includes all accommodation and flights (international and internal) with Delta Air Lines (from Heathrow) for travel on October 4 2016.

Accommodation in Hawaii is at the threestar Ohana Waikiki Mali and in San Francisco at the three-star Hotel Carlton. funway4agents.co.uk



GLOVER PARK D.C. JOINS KIMPTON

DESTINATIONS

Utah's mountain high PARK City Mountains Resort and Canyons Resort in Utah have twinned to create the largest ski and snowboard resort in the U.S, featuring 7,300 skiable acres and over 300 trails. On-mountain changes include a new eightseat Quicksilver Gondola, upgrades to several lifts, additional snowmaking on two Iron Mountain area trails and a number of new restaurants.

Parkcitymountain.com

THE Kimpton Glover Park Hotel, currently operating as the Savoy Suites Hotel, is undergoing a multimilliondollar renovation and redesign of all its guest rooms, public areas and restaurant and will officially join the Kimpton group as the Glover Park Hotel in the spring. Situated on Wisconsin Avenue, in a tree-lined, neighbourhood, some 25 of the rooms in the 154-room property have sweeping views of the National Mall and Potomac River – and 21 rooms have kitchenettes aimed at families. gloverparkhotel.com

When did Manta Ray inn join Visit USA? We've owned the Inn in Hollywood Florida for 24 years and joined Visit USA three years ago, and Visit USA UK last fall.

What are you hoping to gain from membership?

We want to raise awareness of our superior, family-owned and family-run small lodging property as it's really an ideal option for couples and families from the UK/Europe.

Tell us a little about the property? The Manta Ray Inn has nine one-bedroom apartments and two twobedroom, two-bathroom apartments. They have full kitchens and living rooms and create a 'home away from home' with free parking and wifi, heated pool, daily maid service, free wifi, beach chairs, beach towels, BBQ and laundry facilities, even children's beach toys!

Do you have a ‘selling tip’ to pass on to our readers?

Promote our direct ocean front on the quiet end of Hollywood Beach - it's our 'best kept secret'! We have a very large beach and a lifeguard directly out front. The property is quiet but close enough to walk to the Hollywood Broadwalk's restaurants and shops and ten minutes from Aventura Mall, Gulf Stream Race Track, shopping and the Mardi Gras Casino. Sawgrass Mills, South Beach and Ft. Lauderdale are an easy drive away.

What is the best aspect of your job? Working on the beach is the best part of our job and we love making our guests happy. The Manta Ray Inn team is awesome!!!

Subscribe to the Visit USA Association online Travel Update at visitusa.org.uk

28

my journey

s e lp A s e t u a H My journey...

– and , with a hint of Italy ch en Fr ry ve – s Alp the Southern Jo Austin ventures to pistes story and uncrowded hi g in at in sc fa e m so discovers

I

t all seems a little déjà vu– and as a seasoned skier of the French Alps, perhaps some of it is. There are place names I recognise, such as La Grave, Risoul and Vars, but this is the first time that I have placed them as being part of the departement HautesAlpes in northern Provence.

its erves uly des ge listing tr on c a Brian herit O world UNESC

Might even look good in front of my hearth!

Aptly named, the spectacular Hautes-Alpes mountains average over 1000 metres and up to almost 4000m at the highest peak of La Meije. The impressive high cols will be familiar to those who follow the great cycling routes of the Tour de France.

I am visiting the Brianconnais region in the north east corner of Hautes Alpes where it borders with Italy along the southern Alps. There is an attractive sense of authenticity with an apparent lack of English speakers and none of the extravagant ‘trappings’ of more familiar ski resorts further north. The villages feature traditional chalets along with new apartments and the planners must have ruled that all are built with wood and nothing above four floors.

of Tourism, Laurent Janoir, as: “The most Italian of all French resorts”, we soon discover that the resort links with Italy at two top ski lifts, making it possible to spend the morning on the slopes in France and pop over the border for a coffee!

A six-day ski pass includes one day of skiing in Italy with the opportunity to ski the stunning Milky Way, with its 400 kms of pistes. Perhaps even more enticing is the claim that this region has sun for 300 days of the year. Lunch that day is in the resort’s superb new Les Terrasses du Chalvet mountain restaurant where skiers are invited to swap their boots for ‘crocs’ and relax on skins while taking in 360-degree views and enjoy fresh local river trout. A welcome visit to the Durancia spa makes our first day complete.

The Serre Chevalier valley is made up of several villages including Chantemerle, Villeneuve and Le Monetier les Bains and is one of Europe’s largest ski areas covering some 410 hectares with 62 lifts. Ideal for all the family, the pistes are wide and tame (in the main) and the vistas across to La Meige and the protected Parc National des Ecrins are supreme.

For beginners the region is unique in that there are several green (easy) slopes at the top of the mountains so it means they do not have to miss out on all the fun. A novelty is the installation of a barbecue terrace at the top of Col de la Cucumelle where monitors will light the coals on large grills and help to cook whatever the skiers bring in their backpacks!

“Beginners can learn to ski on wide open slopes at the top of the mountain rather than down in the village”

Birthplace of wintersports

After a 90-minute transfer from Turin Airport our first ski resort is Montgenevre. The village is full of history, built on a main artery through the Alps between Italy and France once used by emperors, kings and Bonaparte’s army. A font in the chapel dates back to 75BC and the town claims M to be the birthplace of y magical m Snoeshoe oments ing throug wintersports in France h th Salettes e forest overl up (in 1907). There is also fresh rive ooking Briancon w to the 18th centu ry Fort ith Visa T r tr ou t in Les T restauran re a statue of English kk in g. Eating errasses t ab du C an open-a ove Montgenevre. mountaineer, Edward Staring up halvet mountain ir Jacuzz i at Les warming at the st Gra up in the ar Whymper, who climbed Roman-sty nds Bains in Mon s from guide dow etie le Caldarium n the wid several peaks in the region e open sl . Skiing af r and through th opes of V ars before ter my e White before ascending the Forest in light powde dipping Matterhorn in 1865. r.

Described by its Director

sellingtravel.co.uk

Europe’s highest town

Our evening is spent in the thermal baths at Le Monetier where we experience the Frigidarium, Tepidarium and the Caldarium in true Roman style! Built on the site of the hot springs discovered

by Roman legionaires, the design is on a spectacular scale set against the mountains.

We are given a very warm welcome by English-owner

my journey

All steamed up in the Duranci a spa in Montgen evre

Beginners can take advantage of some gentle slopes at th e top of the mountain s

No stopping me now on the manicure d slopes of Vars!

Lynne Laurent this evening on our arrival at the informal Hotel Plein Sud in the centre of Chantemerle.

The family-run hotel is just 150 metres from the slopes at the bottom of the famous Luc Alphand run.

At the head of the valley is the UNESCO World Heritage listed town of Briancon, the highest altitude town in France. Its strategic position at the head of five valleys has put the heavily fortified town in the centre of endless conflict over the centuries and up until WWII when it was occupied by the Germans on two occasions. Today the majestic walled city, with its stone towers, fountains and cobbled streets, offers a pleasant distraction from the ski slopes as well as exceptional dining at the Michelin-listed Au Plaisir Ambre! A fun morning was spent snowshoeing up to Fort des Salettes.

Montg

enevr e, wh built in tra ere chale ts ditiona l style are

team nowshoe The s ew heights s n reache

Skiing in the White Forest

Situated in the south east area of the Hautes-Alpes, with easy access from Marseilles, Vars overlooks the three valleys of Ubaye, Guil and Durance. The resort is made up of three villages and the ski area links with Risoul to offer a huge ski area of 185km.

Vars is probably most famous for its exclusive speed skiing events. It is also where the Red Baron, Eric Barone, beat his own world speed record on a mountain bike on the snow! For skiers, the Floret Blanche (White Forest) offers fabulous high level skiing amongst the trees.

The Vars mountain pass is popular with cyclists in the summer and featured in the Tour de France in 2000. In the Durance valley is Lac Serre-Poncon, one of the largest artificial lakes in Europe and perfect for watersports enthustiasts.

Winter activities

Skins are obligatory for skiers wanting to enter the dramatic Park National des Ecrins which also offers snowshoeing and crosscountry trekking. We did have a go on the Deval’Bob ski trail, stretching 4000km down a vertical height of 573 metres through the larch forest - and have the bruises to prove it!

Access

Turin, Grenoble, Lyons and Marseilles airports are within an easy drive of Hautes-Alpes. hautes-alpes-tourism.co.uk

The magestic towers and spires within the walls of Briancon

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Speed skiin g in simply passed Vars me by!

Help, no brakes! It’s all downhill on the Deval’Bob

book it How to g seven nights aftromthe

April aturin s is fe h/£1009pp in a and from c Ingham p r a S il in p in M el and £979p de Aigle Hot 89pp in Apr el. an Hot £7 r / d h G u c r S * a 4 Plein p in M £879p d room at 3* eneuve with d Vill dar n in ta s r rch. an a Amandie 99pp in Ma ights t le a h C £5 g fl includin g from on caterin 99 in April irports a 5 r £ e (oth from uk o. twick .c a s G m a from t). ingh reques

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how to sell

The Three Valleys

by Benjamin Coren

S

tepping out of the Saulire Express gondola at the top of Courchevel I look down at the sea of clouds below and enjoy the clear sunny day at the peak, where mountain views last for miles.

Minutes later I'm zooming down through the clouds into the scenic valley. I stop off at one of the numerous mountain restaurants which dot the mountains and enjoy a warm gluhwein.

With around 600km of piste and over 300 runs catering to all abilities, the Three Valleys in France is the largest linked ski region in Europe.

It is home to the well-known resorts of Courchevel, Meribel, Les Menuires and Val Thorens, Europe’s highest resort.

Why sell it?

High areas such as Val Thorens are 'snowsure' and generally offer good conditions.

The vastness of the area will keep keen skiers coming back for more and accessibility is good for beginners. Advanced and expert skiers will enjoy the connectivity between all the resorts, enabling them to ski the entire region with ease.

Experts will love the challenges on offer with

Meribel Mottaret

Ski lessons are essential for beginners plenty of backcountry and some of Europe’s most difficult black runs, including the infamous Grand Couloir. Packed with bars, restaurants, shops and hotels, each resort has plenty to offer.

What to sell?

Courchevel is made up of four villages: Le Praz (1300m), Courchevel Village (1550m), Moriond (1650) and Courchevel 1850 – all have access to modern lift systems. Accommodation prices tend to decrease the lower down the valley you stay and each village is connected by a free ski bus.

Meribel is popular with British visitors and is connected to Courchevel and Val Thorens. It consists of Meribel Village (1400m), Meribel, the largest area with the most bars, restaurants and accommodation options, and Mottaret (1700m-1800m) at the top of the area.

Val Thorens (2300m) is a large town with a number of accommodation options. Budget rooms and luxury lodges are available and there are a large number of shops, restaurants,

bars and nightclubs. Ski lessons are essential for beginners and are available from a number of schools throughout the region including ESF, New Generation, Supreme and Sweet Snowsports. Lift passes can be purchased in resort or in advance online (les3vallees.com).

Sell to whom?

All the resorts are popular family destinations.

Areas such as Courchevel 1850 have a reputation for expensive high-end hotels, but lower down the valley and in other linked resorts there are options to suit most pockets.

There are plenty of chalets available, which are great for group bookings. For younger clients, suggest the lively resort of Val Thorens.

All three Three Valleys resorts cater to families, and have plenty of ski schools, crèches and family entertainment. Couples and honeymooners may be attracted to the glitz of Courchevel 1850, home to some of the finest hotels in the region. 

Three Valleys essentials TIME: +1 GMT FLIGHT TIME: The usual flight time from London to Geneva or Lyon is 1.5 hours.

CURRENCY: Euro LANGUAGE: The official language of France is French, though many European languages are spoken in the region including English.

BOOK IT Ski Independence has a seven-night stay in a four-star self-catering apartment in Courchevel 1850 for a family of two adults and two children priced from £4,500 per family. The deal includes easyJet flights from Gatwick to Geneva and private transfers. Visit Ski-i.com for further information.

OTHER TOUR OPERATORS Skiworld.co.uk ski-i.com crystalski.co.uk neilson.co.uk GETTING THERE The Three Valleys ski region is within easy reach of Geneva, Chambéry and Lyon airports.

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easyJet (easyjet.com) operates several flights from Gatwick to Geneva as well as a service to Lyon. British Airways (batraveltrade.com) also runs services from Gatwick and Heathrow. Other airlines flying to Geneva include Monarch (monarch.co.uk) and Swiss (swiss.com). All the above carriers also operate services to Lyon.

abu dhabi

pearls of

wisdom

Combining Arabian traditions and embracing a globalised future is helping Abu Dhabi cement itself as the cultural hub of the Arabian Peninsula, says William MacIntosh

Near Al Ain National Museum, the Al Ain Oasis is filled with palm plantations, many of which are still working farms

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can feel the sweat on my brow as I stick the knife in for a third time. I give it a twist and slide my fingers into the flesh inside.

All eyes ere on me. Everyone else on the boat has opened their oyster and found a pearl on the first attempt. I am feeling the pressure.

“This time you’ll have success,” says Humaid, our Emirati guide and pearldiving expert. “I am sure of it.”

It occurs to me that I may not have fared too well as an Arabic pearl diver in the late 19th century. Theirs was a hard lot, as Humaid explains.

Long before the discovery of oil, pearls were the primary source of income for the inhabitants of today’s UAE. Crews of 20 men, packed onto traditional wooden vessels like the one I was on now, would depart for the pearl banks for four months at a time. Divers would go down upwards of 50 times a day, pulled to the bottom by weights on their feet, their noses pegged with turtle-shell clips and their ears plugged with wax. After filling a basket with as many shells as possible, they’d pull on their rope and be hauled to the surface.

But prizing the shell open, I let out a less-thanmanly squeal as I see my shining pearl. Humaid, it seems, knows his oysters!

The Abu Dhabi Pearl Journey (abudhabipearljourney. com) is a perfect example of the great cultural experiences now available in Abu Dhabi.

Stand-out destination “Living in the capital of the UAE, we’re especially proud of our history and heritage,” says Mubarak Al Nuaimi, TCA Abu Dhabi’s Director of Promotions & Overseas Offices. “By developing the cultural experiences we offer we can help Abu Dhabi to really stand out as a tourist destination.”

There is plenty on offer that already stands out. The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is one of the most breathtaking buildings in existence.

Users of TripAdvisor voted it the fourth-greatest landmark in the world, behind only Angkor Wat, Machu Picchu and the Taj Mahal.

A tour of the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital highlights the importance of falconry in Emirati culture. The hospital sees anywhere from 50 to 100 falcons a day. Most are brought in to have their talons trimmed, and seeing a peregrine get a pedicure is among the highlights of the tour.

Recommend a day tour to Al Ain, an oasis city just 90 minutes from the capital that’s brimming with forts, palaces and UNESCO sites.

For a glimpse of the future, the exhibition centre Manarat Al Saadiyat explores the ‘starchitect’designed mega-galleries currently being built on Saadiyat Island. They include the first branch of the Louvre outside France (set to open later this year), the Brit-designed Zayed National Museum, and the biggest Guggenheim ever constructed.

Culture, of course, is just one of many strings to Abu Dhabi’s tourism bow. At just seven hours (flying time) from the UK and with no crime to

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abu dhabi

speak of, it’s a perfect – and safe – option for a winter-sun weekend, a stopover en route to Asia or Australia or as part of an Arabian twin-centre.

Beach lovers should consider the Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi or St Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, both of which offer direct access to a ninekilometre ribbon of dazzling white sand.

Shoppers can find jewellery, carvings and hand-made carpets in the city’s assorted souks, or designer clothing in air-conditioned malls like The Galleria on Al Maryah Island.

Foodies can dine at restaurants run by Michelin star chefs, like the newly opened Pearls by Michael Caines at Jumeirah at Etihad Towers.

Families can take advantage of a Yas Park Pass (yasparkpass.com) to get discounted access to Yas Waterworld and Ferrari World Abu Dhabi.

Desert dreamers can explore the dunes of the Rub Al Khali, the largest expanse of sand in the world. While adventure seekers can test their metal with everything from sand surfing to wakeboarding, kayaking to camel trekking.

Perfect 5

with a piece of camel milk chocolate. Or try the Palace Cappuccino, sprinkled with 24-carat gold flakes.

Family fun: Ride the world’s fastest What’s new rollercoaster at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi or  Cruising: MSC Cruises (msccruises.co.uk) is offering seven-night Arabian Gulf cruises aboard make a splash at Yas Waterworld.

Beach bliss: With more than 400 MSC Musica out of the new Abu Dhabi Cruise kilometres of coastline, Abu Dhabi has no Terminal until March 27 2016. Celebrity Cruises (celebritycruises.co.uk) will also be homeporting in shortage of beaches. In spring you can share Abu Dhabi this year, offering nine- to 14-night Saadiyat’s with nesting hawksbill turtles.

Wildlife: Enjoy cruises aboard Celebrity safari-style Constellation from game drives on Sir November 2016 until “Observation Deck at 300 Bani Yas Island, home mid-January 2017. on the 74th floor of Jumeirah to Arabian oryx,  Hotels: The emirate’s at Etihad Towers is the gazelles, giraffes, first Four Seasons highest public gallery in the hyenas and cheetahs. hotel (fourseasons.com) city and offers great views Arabian is set to open in May sands: Go next to the luxurious in every direction” dune bashing, camel Galleria shopping mall trekking, sand surfing on Al Maryah Island. or ‘fat biking’.

The 34-floor hotel will feature 190 rooms, 54 Coffee at a palace: Be adventurous and serviced apartments and a rooftop pool. try a ‘camelccino’ at Emirates Palace, a The 428-room Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel cappuccino made from local camel milk, paired & Residences Emirates Pearl (abudhabi.grand. hyatt.com) will open in the summer opposite Emirates Palace. While the towering open archway of the Fairmont Marina Resort & Residences (fairmontmarinaresidences.com) is set to open on the breakwater later in the year.  Trade: TCA Abu Dhabi (visitabudhabi.ae) will be delivering destination training around the country and hosting roadshows in Manchester, Glasgow and Bristol before the summer. A 100-agent mega-fam is being planned for April.  Air: British Airways (batraveltrade.com) has launched its new Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner on a Clockwise from top: Yas Waterworld is one of Arabia’s top water parks; a desert adventure is a ‘must do’ activity in Abu Dhabi; A tour of the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital highlights the role of falconry in Emirati culture

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daily London-Abu Dhabi-Muscat service. Etihad Airways (etihad.com) is opening a new First Class Lounge at Abu Dhabi International Airport in May.  Attractions: Not content with having the fastest rollercoaster in the world (Formula Rossa), Ferrari World Abu Dhabi’s (ferrariworldabudhabi.com) latest ride, Flying Aces, has the tallest loop in the world – a stomach-churning 52m (170ft).

The new Qasr Al Muwaiji museum (qasralmuwaiji.ae) in Al Ain, is built around a century-old fortress that was home to generations of Abu Dhabi’s ruling dynasty.

Tourism talk “This is an exciting time for Abu Dhabi.

Visitors from the UK jumped 14% last year – to over 231,000 – the third year in a row we’ve achieved double-digit growth. And with the homeporting of ships from MSC Cruises and Celebrity Cruises encouraging pre- and post-cruise stays, landmark hotels from Four Seasons, Grand Hyatt and Fairmont all opening this year, plus the hotly anticipated unveiling of the Louvre Abu Dhabi, we’re expecting similar growth levels in 2016. We’re thrilled to be hosting ABTA’s annual Travel Convention in October – an event that promises to strengthen our relationship with the UK travel industry still further.”

Nabeel Al Zarouni, UK Country Manager Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority

Where to book it  SOUTHALL TRAVEL – 020 8705 0086 A three-night stay on a B&B basis at Jumeirah at Etihad Towers including flights starts from £455pp. Valid for travel May 13 to July 14 2016. southalltravel.co.uk  GOLDMEDAL – 0800 0147 777

A three-night stay on a B&B basis at Rotana’s Centro Yas Island including flights starts from £429pp. Includes a saving of £165pp. Valid for travel June 6 to 27, 2016. goldmedal.co.uk 

competition

WI

NA

TR

Win a place on an exclusive Mega Fam to Abu Dhabi

IP

TO

AB

UD

HA

From soaring dunes, inspiring architecture, and vibrant Arabian traditions, to thrilling theme parks, luxury hotels, and the warm waters of the Arabian Gulf, Abu Dhabi is the definition of diversity.

C

urious to discover this vibrant capital city for yourself?

Visit sellingtravel.co.uk/abu-dhabi and answer three simple questions to be in with a chance of winning a place on a three-night Abu Dhabi Mega Fam, running May 1-4, 2016.

Flying with Abu Dhabi’s national carrier, Etihad Airways, in groups departing from Heathrow, Manchester and Edinburgh, expect to experience generous hospitality from start to finish. Visit top attractions such as Ferrari World Abu Dhabi and the iconic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and experience Arabian traditions throughout. Get some R&R at one of the city’s luxurious hotels, your home for the three nights, before seeing off the trip in style with a special final night.

To be in with a chance of joining the fam just answer these three questions: 1

2

3

What is the name of the world’s largest indoor theme park located on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi?

Give the airport codes of Etihad’s three UK departure airports?

Name the capital city of the United Arab Emirates?

Enter online by April 4, 2016 at sellingtravel.co.uk/abu-dhabi The judges' decision is final. No correspondence will be entered into.

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BI

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worldwide family holidays

A family holiday, particualrly when the kids are in their adolescent years, can create memories to last a lifetime

sellingtravel.co.uk

worldwide family holidays

fortunes family

From the Maldives to Cape Town to Germany, destinations and resorts around the world are expanding their product portfolio to attract more families, says Clare Walsh

A

s our open-sided safari jeep ascends 2,000 feet into the wilderness of the Sierra Madre mountains, we are greeted with an oasis of colour.

The Eden-like jungle pulsates with life as jaguars, armadillos and raccoons survey their territory; the children in our party delighted at their adventure into hidden Mexico.

Throughout our tour we are introduced to petroglyphs from ancient tribes, witness sublime beauty at a nature reserve and soar through the canopy on the longest zip-lining circuit in Mexico.

We are just outside Puerto Vallarta, a stunning spot on the country’s Pacific coast.

Unlike its Caribbean counterpart, this side of Mexico hasn’t always been geared up or easily accessible to UK families.

But the introduction of Thomson’s Dreamliner in 2014 was a game changer, and there is now a strong focus on attracting families who want an authentic Mexican experience to this side of the country.

Family matters It’s a similar story with several other long haul destinations. Improved air connectivity, family-focused resorts and a wealth of activities now enable families, especially those with older children, to discover parts of the world that were previously off limits.

For example, the rainforests and reefs of Costa Rica – one of the most exciting destinations of 2016 – will soon be accessible when British Airways launches its direct London to San Jose service on May 4.

A technicolour wonderland teaming with wildlife, the destination offers jungle experiences, volcanic natural hot springs and a myriad of wildlife – a perfect option for adventure-seeking families.

Caribbean and Indian Ocean resorts are also expanding their offerings for families.

Impressive kids clubs and on-site activities complement new room and suite types to appeal to those with children.

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35

GETAWAYS to a real

PARADISE

Getaway to an idyllic paradise island!

JA Manafaru is a hidden tropical paradise of white pristine beaches, lush greenery and transparent azure waters in the Maldives. With 84 luxurious villas, families can dive into a host of exciting adventures and couples can be swept away by romantic encounters, delight in an array of International and Maldivian cuisines and relax at the spa with traditional treatments.

Discover paradise at JA Manafaru.

For bookings or more information, please call +971 4 814 5577 | 0800 0159 708 (UK toll free), Or email reservations.manafaru@jaresorts.com jaresortshotels.com

/manafaru

@jamanafaru

worldwide family holidays

Sri Lanka – one of the best-value tropical Further strong contenders for family holidays beach destinations – offers palm-speckled sands, in 2016 include Dubai, which is opening four new mystical temples, tea plantations and whale theme parks in 2016, and South Africa. Excellent, watching. And since British Airways’ launch of malaria-free parks in many provinces, such as direct flights via Male in 2014, families can the North West and Eastern Cape, offer families now consider a dual Indian Ocean break. an educational trip spotting the Big Five. And Following the launch of the electronic Tourist with the rand struggling in 2016, it offers clients Visa Scheme in 2014, great value too.

India’s new National Even the Maldives Tourist Policy has is tailoring its offering “From activities such as launched additional to appeal to families. hydrobiking and cycling to initiatives to ensure At JA Manafaru there’s exploring national parks, nature a kids’ club with a it hits its target of attracting one million parks and biosphere reserves to dedicated pool and UK visitors to the seaside holidays on the Baltic garden and activities country by 2020. coast or one of the islands for like table tennis and And with a focus beach games. And all wildlife watching, Germany is members of the family on its niche tourism geared for the entire family” experiences such as will love the dolphinadventure, Disney’s spotting cruises. release of the Jungle Closer to home, Book in April could inspire clients to explore the Spanish and Greek islands remain a Madhya Pradesh. Along with searching for their safe and reliable bet for clients with little own Baloo, the area is abundant in outstanding ones. Toasty temperatures, safe waters and national parks and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. child-focused resorts in destinations such as Tourism Australia launched its global Lanzarote and Corfu offer fuss-free holidays. campaign in December, ‘Coastal and Meanwhile, Germany has launched its ‘Heart Aquatic’, following David Attenborough’s of Nature’ campaign, promoting some of its programmes on the Great Barrier Reef. beautiful spots such as Lake Constance and its Clients planning the family trip of a islands. The country offers specific scenic routes lifetime in 2016 have several options for families to follow, including the Fairytale for immersing themselves in Australia’s Route, Toy Route and Steam Railway route. rich coastal and aquatic experiences and What’s new indulging in the ultimate family adventure.  Airlines: British Airways’ (batrade.co.uk) new direct flight from Gatwick to San Jose in Costa Rica Top: At Maropeng, The Cradle of Mankind World Heritage Site near Johannesburg, South Africa, kids of all ages learn about (from May 4) will be the first non-stop service their ancestors through a variety of interactive exhibits; right: Wildlife experiences provide an educational element between the UK and the Costa Rican capital. The

sellingtravel.co.uk

airline will run its Boeing 777-operated service twice-weekly during the UK summer, increasing this to three days a week during winter.  Hotels: Maritim’s Crystal Beach Hotel in Mauritius has opened a new teens club, The Cube, offering activities ranging from table tennis to Wii games.

Kuramathi Island Resort (kuramathi.com) in the Maldives will unveil five new villa types in March. Its two-bedroom beach houses have been introduced to expand its appeal for families. The resort’s Kids’ Club offers daily themed activities.

QT Residences Bondi (qtbondi.com.au) opened in December. On the doorstep of all the Bondi Beach action, the apartments are ideal for families heading to Sydney, Australia, looking for ease of location and flexibility.

Specifically designed with families in mind, Marbella Corfu (marbella.gr) is opening new luxury one- and two-bedroom suites later this year. The resort offers babysitting services and a crèche.  Attractions: Dubai is adding three new theme parks to its epic collection of attractions. Motiongate Dubai, Bollywood Parks Dubai and LEGOLAND Dubai are scheduled to open in October.

Voted ‘The World’s Best Theme Park’ in 2015, Europa Park (europapark.de/en) in Germany will launch a new Irish-themed area in Spring 2016.  Activities: New for 2016, the Skiathos Princess Hotel (skiathosprincess.com) is offering Mummy Bootcamps. Activities include baby bonding workouts and wellness brunches.

There is also an OFSTED standard kids’ club.

Training: Tourism Australia’s ASP will soon release its new coastal and aquatic specialist module (aussiespecialist.com/splash) to help agents increase their knowledge of Australia’s key coastal and aquatic experiences.

Perfect 10 Adrenaline junkies: Dubai does a lot of things, but understatement isn’t one of them. LEGOLAND Dubai, scheduled to open in October, will feature a half-million gallon wave pool and roller coaster that can reach speeds of up to 60km an hour.

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worldwide family holidays

“Those looking for a family beach vacation will love Mexico’s Pacific Coast. With over 250 miles of coastline and endless beaches, it is perfect for walks, surfing, building sandcastles and playing games. As well as relaxation, there are also a number of family activities such as jungle canopy adventures”

Jungle exploration: Suggest zip-lining, water rafting and jungle safaris in Costa Rica for families.

Sell ease: All-inclusive resorts take the stress out of family holidays. Atlantis Beach Tower in the Bahamas has the Caribbean’s largest water park, a teenagers’ nightclub and swimming with dolphins experience.

The Big Five: A game reserve in South Africa offers the ultimate wildlife adventure. The country is well suited to selfdrives and several private lodges offer junior ranger programmes.

Break from the beach: Families able to drag themselves away from the beach in Mauritius can enjoy a day trip to Casela World of Adventures, which showcases a safari park, big cat drive through and avalanche mine.

Finding Nemo: Snorkeling, glassbottomed boats and sailing are family friendly ways to see the coral reef Down Under.

Treat yourself: The Landings St Lucia offers a free night of babysitting, a $50 spa credit per adult and a $100 food and drink credit towards a romantic date night.

History lesson: Ancient wonders with an educational slant abound in Sri Lanka – visit with older children the Ancient Fort of Galle, Lion’s Rock and Temple of the Sacred Tooth.

Natural wonders: It’s not every day you can explore an eerie lava scape, but Timanfaya National Park in Lanzarote is perfect for a family day trip.

Young adventurers: Kick back in a family-sized hammock in Eifel National Park in Germany, after exploring woodland trails with its hands-on features and sound effects.

Tourism talk “Australia is an ideal destination for family travel. Its warm climate encourages families and children to make the most of the great outdoors while its unique wildlife such as kangaroos and koalas also

have great family appeal. There are many beautiful beaches in Australia for swimming and families will make life-long memories discovering the beauty of snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef, learning to surf at iconic Bondi Beach or enjoying a camel ride on Cable Beach at sunset.”

Denise von Wald, General Manager, Tourism Australia UK & Northern Europe “This is an important year in Costa Rica’s development as a tourist destination. Home to approximately 5% of the world’s known bio-diversity, it boasts an abundance of unique wildlife, landscapes and climates. Families can enjoy a wealth of activities from exploring the tropical rainforests to enjoying the diverse National Parks, to rafting along rivers and kayaking in warm tropical seas.”

Alejandro Castro Alfaro, Director of Marketing, Costa Rica Tourism Board

Where to book it  NATURAL WORLD SAFARIS – 01273 691 642 An 11-day safari exploring Costa Rica starts at £2,395pp, excluding international flights. Raft raging rapids, zip through the canopy, abseil down waterfalls and hike through a private reserve. naturalworldsafaris.com  IF ONLY – 0141 955 4000

Seven nights at the four-star all-inclusive Ravenala Attitude in Mauritius costs from £1,129pp including flights with Emirates, private transfers and taxes. Facilities include kids and teens clubs and family-friendly beach BBQs. Valid for Gatwick or Manchester departures from April 30 -May 24 2016. Book by March 30. ifonly.net

 TRAVEL2 – 0800 0224 182 A seven-night deal at the five-star Princesa Yaiza Suite Hotel and Resort in Lanzarote starts from £489pp, with flights from Gatwick and transfers.

The resort is home to ‘Kirkoland’ a 10,000 sq.ft children’s playground. travel2.com 

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REQUIREMENTS FOR MINORS ( UNDER 18) TRAVELLING TO SOUTH AFRICA Legislation changes in the Republic of South Africa mean certain requirements must be met for minors under 18 entering the country. As of June 1, 2015, all minors must have a valid passport and visa (if required).

Minors travelling with both parents, one parent or a person who is not the biological parent must present an original or certified copy of an unabridged birth certificate (UBC) or equivalent document.

Unaccompanied minors do not require a UBC, although a parental consent affidavit (PCA) will be required.

In any instance where the minor is not travelling with both biological parents, additional documents are required alongside the UBC. For example, single parents will require a PCA and, where applicable, court orders detailing sole custody or full legal guardianship.

It is important to tell clients they must check they have all the necessary documents, depending on who the minor is travelling with, before entering South Africa.

Inspiration. Incentives. Bookings.

March 2016

THIS MONTH'S TOP STORIES

The CTO is on the road again!

ROADSHOW

Quick Quiz Are you a Tenerife expert?

1. Santa Cruz is the university city of Tenerife TRUE / FALSE

Hot News

New Trinbago rewards agents!

2. The island has a road network that climbs to an altitude of 2,000 metres

www.traveluni.com

Boucan Caribbean Travel Guru Cayman islands Chile England Gambia Grenada

Guadeloupe Hotel Extras Jamaica Jewel Resorts Kenya Las Vegas Macao

Answers: 1: False 2: True

COURSES Anguilla Antigua & Barbuda Aruba Barbados Belmond Botswana

caribbeantravelguru.com onecaribbean.org

March roadshows for Seychelles

TRUE / FALSE

New Training Programme

WISE UP to the wonders of the dual destinations of Trinidad and Tobago with Travel Uni's newest training programme. The vibrant atmosphere of Trinidad is balanced by the relaxing vibes of Tobago, making it a great addition to any portfolio.

Agents who book trips to Trinidad and Tobago and log them on MyBookingRewards can win two return flights to the destination, and those who include Blue Waters Inn, Tobago, can win a stay for two. learntrinbago.com

THE CARIBBEAN Tourism Organization is taking its annual roadshows around the UK and Ireland, the dates are as follows: April 12, Dublin; April 13, Limerick; April 14, Cork; April 18, Edinburgh; April 19, Glasgow; May 17, London; May 18, Chelmsford; September 14, Chester; September 15, Birmingham. The events aim to develop agent knowledge of the CTO’s work and its partners.

Malaysia Miami Namibia Nassau Norway Norwegian Cruise Line Poland

ROADSHOW

SEYCHELLES will host its sixth The Seychelles Discovered Roadshow this month (March).

The dates are as follows: March 15, Manchester; March 16, Kendal; March 17, York.

The show will create a 'relaxed and informative training environment' for agents to learn about the islands.

Confirmed partners include: The Seychelles Tourist Office, Hotel Coco de Mer & Black Parrot Suites, Banyan Tree, Hilton Seychelles, Avani Babarons Resort, Berjaya Hotels and Denis Island.

To sign up, email: info@destination-events.com seychellessuperstar.co.uk

Qatar Samoa Selling Cruising Seychelles St Kitts Tenerife Thailand

The Crane Trinidad & Tobago Tunisia www.traveluni.com

Destinations • Cruise • Tour Operators • Hotels & Resorts • Rail

Training courses to help travel agents and advisers sell more!

New boutique hotel for Seychelles Graduate Reward Scheme

NEWS

THE SEYCHELLES will welcome a new 40-chalet boutique hotel by the name of Carana Beach on April 15 this year.

Carana Beach has 28 ocean-view chalets and 12 ocean-view chalets with private pools.

It is situated on the northern edge of Mahé, which is the largest island in the Seychelles, and is a great place for clients to escape, relax and unwind.

To learn more about the islands and the range of accommodation options on offer visit:

How the system works for you!

RECOGNITION Recognising agents for their training and bookings.

Your incentive

seychellessuperstar.co.uk caranabeach.com

Macao iPhone winners revealed

Chile still loves its champions

Chile Champions I Modules: 2

WINNERS

WIN! Chile is giving away a case of 12 bottles of Chilean wine worth approximately £100. Along the way to winning, agents will also receive insider knowledge of Chile's attractions and markets.

The challenge: The first 20 agents to complete the Chile Champions training programme in March will be entered into a prize draw to win the wines.

Wine is grown all over Chile with regions like The Colchagua Valley producing top quality product.

Closing date: March 31, 2016 Where to enter: chilechampions.com

THE WINNERS of the Macao iPhone competition have been announced, and each will receive an iPhone 6S. Jennifer Wilson of STA Travel, Jo Osmond of Travel Counsellors and Nicky Dunlop of Flight Centre all completed the Macao training programme in January and were fortunate enough to have their names pulled out in a prize draw.

Over 100 agents have taken the programme, to join them, sign up: macaospecialist.co.uk

PRIZES Learn and you'll be in with the chance of winning great prizes.

POINTS Earn by completing quizzes, attending events and more...

REWARDS Log bookings for a chance to win even more prizes!

GRADUATE Register, recommend a friend, pass 10 programmes, pass five quizzes, upload 10 bookings and attend one event to become a graduate.

WIN: HOTEL CHOCOLAT CHOCOLATES FIND OUT MORE: BOTSWANA.TRAVELUNI.COM

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FIND: SAFARI • RHINO • CHOBE • OKAVANGO • GABORONE• FALCON TO ENTER: Complete the wordsearch and provide us with your details to be in with a chance of winning!

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CONGRATULATIONS to Sarah Wollam of Owen's Travelmaster who won our Wordsearch on the Grenada training programme last month. Now it's your turn!

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The prize courtesy of Hotel Chocolat. Learn all about the company's beautiful St Lucian cocoa plantation hotel, Boucan by Hotel Chocolat, at: boucantraining.com

Courses • Articles • Quick Quizzes • Rewards • Prizes

www.traveluni.com

42

city profile

Las Vegas - Entertainment capital of the world The Park MGM Resorts’ The Park opens on April 4 revitalising The Strip’s west side by bringing together dynamic eateries and entertainment outlets, including a new arena.

Neon Museam The Neon Museum pays homage to the city’s bygone era with an outdoor exhibition, Neon Boneyard, which houses over 150 vintage neon signs from the 1930s.

The Mob Museum The National Museum of Organised Crime and Law Enforcement is a compelling exhibition of the mafia and mob culture with interactive tools and artefacts to bring events and characters to life.

Puppets Up! This uncensored comedy will debut in spring at The Venetian Las Vegas to entertain with ‘irreverent, off-the-cuff’ comedy directed by Brian Henson, son of The Muppets and Sesame Street’s creator.

The LINQ The LINQ is an open-air retail, dining and entertainment hub at the heart of The Strip. Board the High Roller, the world’s tallest observation wheel for a bird’s eye view of Vegas and beyond.

T

he race is on to be the best, biggest and brightest in Las Vegas. Rowena MarellaDaw takes a look at what’s in store this year

YOU don’t have to be a high roller to enjoy the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas.

Swanky hotels, fine-dining restaurants and world-class entertainment are transforming the city’s image, not to mention its skyline. A sharp contrast to the Las Vegas of the past, everything is now much bigger, brighter and more luxurious.

As cities around the world compete to attract a growing market of high net worth individuals, Las Vegas is constantly reinventing itself to keep up its reputation as the ‘Entertainment Capital of the World’ – and this it does with flourish and panache. Following in the footsteps of The LINQ’s promenade attractions, the much-anticipated opening of MGM’s The Park this spring will offer more options for experiencing the Strip, particularly for those who are not avid gamblers.

RAISING THE STAKES Well-heeled punters expect five-star standards when they come to Vegas. Gone are copious buffets for mass-consumption, taken over by trendy eateries and fine-dining establishments from celebrity chefs and maverick restauranteurs. Any hotel worth its salt will have designed and furnished the rooms with stylish décor, quality beds, luxury amenities and state-of-the-art technology.

Mandarin Oriental is one of very few

“Gone are copious buffets for mass-consumption, taken over by trendy eateries and finedining establishments from celebrity chefs and maverick restauranteurs” Nobu’s teppanyaki lobster

sellingtravel.co.uk

The Strip

non-gaming five-star hotels on the Strip.

Maintaining the brand’s high standards, the ambience here is relaxing, particularly the spa, which is an oasis of calm. Win or lose, this is the place to unwind and escape the noise and madness.

On the entertainment side, the line-up of class acts includes the ‘Lionel Richie - All the Hits’ show, which opens at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino in April. The new ‘Jennifer Lopez: All I Have’ show and Britney Spears’ ‘Britney: Piece of Me’ are currently running at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino.

DINING HOTSPOTS Dining at Nobu restaurant, not just any Japanese restaurant, is one of the highlights of the Vegas experience. Its popularity with gourmands justifies the 327-seating capacity incorporating teppanyaki tables, a sushi bar, lounge and private dining area. The menu is extensive, but to get the best of everything, leave it to the chef to put together a selection of hot and cold dishes, including the signature Yellowtail Jalapeno and Black Cod. The restaurant is located at Caesars Palace.

The best Spanish tapas and paellas on the Strip are served at Jaleo restaurant at The Cosmopolitan. The mastermind behind this is José Andrés, who has earned a reputation around the country for his innovative take on

city profile

Visit the

Grand Canyon Seeing is Believing!

43

Grand Canyon National Park • Hoover Dam • Indian Country Grand Canyon West • Grand Canyon Overnight Packages • Group Charters • Grand Canyon Overnight with the Grand Canyon Railway www.grandcanyontourandtravel.com inquiries@gctco.com The Cosmopolitan

traditional Spanish fayre. There’s an open-fire wood grill where paella is cooked, a tapas bar and mouth-watering dishes include Jamon Iberico de Bellota, and the all-time favourite, Gambas al Ajillo. Adventurous palates can opt for a tasting menu of over a dozen ‘avant-garde’ dishes. The buzzing atmosphere adds to the memorable culinary journey.

Restaurant Guy Savoy elevates the Vegas dining experience to a new level. As one would expect from a two Michelin-star French restaurant, the exquisite dishes reflect the standards of its parent restaurant in Paris.

It also takes pride in housing the only Krug Chef’s Table in America, with a tasting menu designed to match Krug’s prestige cuveé Champagnes.

The service is impeccable and the setting intimate, it’s hard

to believe you’re in Vegas.

The restaurant is tucked away in the Augustus Tower, near Qua spa at Caesars Palace.

TOURISM TALK “Las Vegas welcomed a record 42 million visitors in 2015 and we’re delighted that the UK remains the city’s number one overseas source market, attracting over 725,000 travellers annually.

Las Vegas is becoming an ever-more accessible long-haul destination for British holiday makers, with up to 30 direct flights per week from London, Manchester and Glasgow on Virgin Atlantic, British Airways and Thomas Cook Airlines.”

Russell Meara, Sales & Marketing Account Director, LVCVA UK office 

NEWMARKET HOLIDAYS - 0330 160 7700 A new 11-day Las Vegas and national parks escorted tour costs £1,399pp and includes nine nights’ room-only accommodation, scheduled flights and coach travel. The itinerary includes visits to Grand Canyon, Arches and Canyonlands National Park, Capitol Reef National Park, Zion and Bryce Canyon, plus an overnight stay in Monument Valley. Departure dates start from February 27, 2017. newmarketholidays.co.uk SAMPLE DEAL

sellingtravel.co.uk

Untitled-5.indd 1

15/02/201

We know St Helena is special... but don’t take our word for it

isit tions to v a in t s e d 16 “The top

next year

”

“Best in Travel 2 016 Top 10 Regions ”

“Big Bucket List Adventures” “Where to travel in 2016” “Our top holiday spots for the year ahead.

St Helena”

“Best places to travel in 2016: where to eat, sleep and adventure nex t year - St Hele na”

“52 Places to go in 2016 - St Helena. An isolated wonderland opens to travel.”

“Best places to travel in 2016”

“The very things that make St Helena special are not goin g to change overnigh tit’s not a place to be hurried”

ndscapes “Untouched la

of St Helena”

dinary “An extraor every rock, where ed is corner turn ne another sce revealed”

www.sthelenatourism.com For more information please contact: enquiries@tourism.co.sh

The Review O N LY T H E T R AV E L N E W S T H AT R E AL LY M AT T E R S

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K E N Y A I N S P I R E S : Minister woos UK travellers

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NEWS TO USE New flights for Anguilla GET ONLINE

50

S H OW R E PO RT ASEAN Tourism Forum

51

CHECKING OUT Hyatt Manila, Philippines

R E A D A L L O U R M A G A Z I N E S A N D C H E C K O U T O U R D A I LY S E L L I N G T I P S AT S E L L I N G T RAV E L.C O.U K

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the review

T O U R I S M U P D AT E

Anguilla gets connected

Thanda Island set to open in Tanzania WHAT is being billed as one of the few truly private tropical islands in

CAROL HAY UK Manager, Caribbean Tourism Organization

the world will start welcoming guests next month.

Thanda Island, a beach property

MEET US OUT ON THE ROAD...

in southern Tanzania’s Shungi

COME and join the Caribbean Tourism

Mbili Island Marine Reserve, is a

Organization and partners for an informative

private island that will offer

evening of networking and fun with some

exclusivity for families and friends

great prizes to win at our UK Roadshows.

who stay on a sole-use basis.

The events run from 6-10pm, in Edinburgh

Solar-powered and with five

(April 18), Glasgow (April 19), London (May

bedrooms,

17), Chelmsford (May 18), Chester

accommodates 10 adults, with the

(September

option of children sharing.

14)

and

Birmingham

(September 15).

The

Selling Travel is the media sponsor for the

Thanda

fan

cooled

Island

and

air-

conditioned suites each feature

event and the following destinations and

indoor and outdoor showers.

partners will be there: Air Europa, Antigua

The island is surrounded by its

& Barbuda Tourism, The Bahamas, Barbados,

own private coral reef, with a one-

Cayman Islands, Cuba, Elite Island Resorts,

kilometre

Grenada, Jewel Resorts, LIAT Airlines,

which can be explored with a

exclusive-use

zone,

MyBookingRewards, Nassau Paradise Island,

BY STEVE HARTRIDGE

Nevis, Saint Lucia, Sandals & Beaches.

THE Caribbean island of Anguilla is

The flight is operated by Caribbean

For further details email abrooks@

now that much more accessible for UK

Helicopters, which utilises a fleet of

kayaks are also available. Whale

caribtourism.com or call 020 8948 0057; or

travellers after regional carrier LIAT

Piper Navajo Chieftain PA31-350 and

sharks congregate just south of the

register to attend at: caribbeantravelguru.

last month re-introduced a daily service

Britten Norman BN2 prop aircraft.

Island from October to February

com/reg-form.html

to the island from Antigua.

snorkel and mask. stand-up

paddle

Sail boats, boards

and

Each flight can accommodate up to

and, depending on the season,

The CTO’s online training programme -

There are no direct flights between

seven passengers, who are allowed

guests can watch turtles nesting

caribbeantravelguru.com can also help keep

the UK and Anguilla but on four days of

one piece of checked baggage –

and their eggs hatching.

you up to date on news, competitions and

the week LIAT’s late-afternoon service

although the maximum permitted

Exclusive use of Thanda Island

fam trips in the region and offers prizes each

ties in with both British Airways and

combined weight for checked baggage

starts at $10,000 a night, all-

month. February’s winners were: Grace

Virgin Atlantic flights from London.

and hand baggage is 23kgs.

inclusive. thandaisland.com

Valigy from Thomas Cook Peterborough,

Carolyn Brown, Director UK & Ireland

The flights on Mondays, Thursdays,

who won a £50 Love2Shop voucher for

for the Anguilla Tourist Board, said:

Fridays and Sundays depart Antigua at

completing the most tests and quizzes, and

“This is great news for discerning UK

17.05,

Louise Stewart from British Airways

travellers who yearn to discover the

Wednesdays and Saturdays leaving

Holidays won a rum and chocolate hamper,

real Caribbean in authentic Anguilla,

Antigua at 10.30.

for making and logging her Caribbean

with its glorious beaches, laid-back

Connecting air services to Anguilla

bookings. Next month prizes will be a Virgin

lifestyle, excellent restaurant scene and

also operate from St Maarten (just

Experience Day for two for those agents

much more.”

seven minutes away), which is served

who log their Caribbean bookings on MyBookingRewards.com.

Agents that achieve their ‘Caribbean Travel Guru’ status during the month of

with

those

on

Tuesdays,

“The 45-minute flight from Antigua

by Air France (via Paris) and KLM (via

means a short – but picture-perfect –

Amsterdam). Charter boats are also

hop to one of the Caribbean’s best-kept

available from St Maarten to Anguilla.

secrets,” added Brown.

Ivisitanguilla.com

March, will also have the chance to win a £50 Love2shop Voucher.

If you have any questions or queries

NEWS TO USE IN BRIEF

regarding this programme, please contact Ann-Marie Brooks at abrooks@caribtourism. com or call 020 8948 0057.

Caribbean Tourism Organization 22 The Quadrant, Richmond, Surrey, TW9 1BP Tel: 020 8948 0057 Fax: 020 8948 0067 caribbean.co.uk

Ferry bookings up: UK ferry bookings

Gate-to-gate wifi: Icelandair is the

Blue Train changes: Agents should

in January rose by 23% year on year,

first European airline to offer gate-to-

note that some timings for South Africa’s

according to the ferry comparison site,

gate wifi. Previously, passengers had to

Blue Train have been changed. Whereas

Direct Ferries. Early indicators show

wait until the aircraft reached 10,000ft

previously the arrival time into Pretoria

that many Britons are planning to stay

before wifi was switched on, and it was

and Cape Town was noon, now it is 15.00

closer to home in 2016, with France,

switched off before landing. Electronic

– that’s two additional hours of wining

Ireland and Spain seeing a significant

devices are also allowed during take-off

and dining. Departure times and all off-

increase in ferry bookings.

and landings.

the-train excursions remain the same.

directferries.com

icelandair.co.uk

bluetrain.co.za

sellingtravel.co.uk

the review

AccorHotels ‘Wizardry Wins’ incentive

Win a Gold Medal fam trip to Dubai

ACCORHOTELS

BY AMELIA TERRY

has

a

new

nationwide campaign to encourage

GOLD MEDAL is offering 16

UK agents and planners to increase

travel agents the chance to win a

their meeting and event bookings

fam trip to Dubai with a booking

with them by offering a luxury trip

incentive that runs until March 31.

for two to Los Angeles.

For the chance to win agents

Wizardry Wins will ‘magically’

need to book a holiday to Dubai

convert confirmed bookings into

flying with Emirates between

prizes that include tickets to the

February 1 and March 31, for a

Warner Bros Studio Tour in London,

minimum of three nights. Each

an overnight stay in a castle, a

booking gains one entry into the

sightseeing tour of London and

prize draw.

Pandora shopping vouchers.

The ‘VIP trip’ will include ‘classic’

To be in with a chance, agents

Dubai experiences such as a desert

need to book a meeting or event at

safari, a trip to the Burj Khalifa,

any

hitting the slopes at Ski Dubai and

participating

AccorHotels

property, to take place between March 1 and September 30, and register

their

booking

at

winwithaccor.com.

For every £500 spent at economy hotels (excluding Ibis Budget) and £1,000 spent at mid-scale and

entrance to Dubai Aquarium.

Ten years on and the force is strong in Abu Dhabi

luxury properties, agents are A two-night, full-board stay at the

granted a ‘magic stone’ and

BY BENJAMIN COREN

entered into a monthly prize draw.

GUESTS from the UK travel industry

five-star Anantara Qasr Al Sarab Desert

After exploring Dubai, agents will be spend time relaxing at the beach, being pampered at a spa and

Michelin-starred

dining.

goldmedal.co.uk

Princess has new designs on cruising

Once they have garnered five

were on hand last month to celebrate

Resort was included in a holiday prize

magic stones, agents will be given

the 10-year anniversary of TCA Abu

draw won by Michael English, Head of

PRINCESS CRUISES’ Majestic

a ‘precious diamond’ and entered

Dhabi’s UK office.

Business Development for Celebrity

Princess, the line’s first ship built

Cruises (pictured centre).

and designed specifically for the

into the draw to win the Los

At a drinks reception and dinner held

Angeles holiday prize, which

at the Hyatt Regency London – The

In 2006, Abu Dhabi offered just over

China market, will also be the first

includes business class flights.

Churchill, attention was drawn to the

10,000 hotel rooms; today there are

Princess ship to debut a new livery

winwithaccor.com

three landmark hotels opening this

close to 30,000, which are spread

design which will roll out across

year in Abu Dhabi: the first Four

across a growing range of diverse and

its fleet over the next few years.

Seasons in the emirate (in May), the

world-class properties.

The cruise line says the design

Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel and

In 2006 these rooms welcomed a

Residences Emirates Pearl (end of the

little over 1.3 million guests, but over

flowing gracefulness of ocean

summer) and the Fairmont Marina

the past decade that number has more

waves and represents the adventure

Resort and Residences (towards the

than tripled, to over 4.1 million last

of discovering what the world has

end of the year).

year, with the UK contributing the third

to offer on a Princess cruise”.

On the night, guests were surprised

highest number of any inbound market,

“symbolises

the

smooth

and

Majestic Princess, which will

by the arrival of two Stormtroopers,

at 231,337 guests.

homeport in Shanghai and carry

who were there to celebrate Abu

See our Abu Dhabi feature (page 67).

3,560 guests, will set sail in 2017.

Dhabi’s role in the new Star Wars film.

visitabudhabi.ae

Princess sails to more than 360 ports

of

princess.com

NEWS TO USE IN BRIEF Finnair’s northern stars: Finnair is to

New flights to Montréal: Air Transat

Cars for agents: Affordable Car Hire

add more flights to Kittilä, Kuusamo and

has a new weekly route from Glasgow

has an improved website with an

Ivalo this winter. All three offer activities

starting May 30 and Wow Air will have

updated interactive display and new

like ice fishing, ‘Aurora Borealis’, skiing,

four weekly flights via Reyjavik from

features such as the option to search by

husky safaris and reindeer sleigh rides.

May 12. Starting May 19, Icelandair

passenger number, transmission type,

Finnair connects UK flyers through

will also fly

to the city four times

supplier and car group. Agents can also

Helsinki from Heathrow, Manchester,

weekly from Gatwick, Birmingham,

view excess and deposit requirements

Dublin and, from April 18, Edinburgh.

Manchester, Glasgow and Aberdeen.

against

finnair.com

airtransat.com; wowair.co.uk; icelandair.co.uk

affordablecarhire.com

sellingtravel.co.uk

each

vehicle

type.

call

worldwide.

47

48

the review

Cruise booms for Japan

Jamaica is just getting hotter JAMAICA

proved

a

Acacia puts focus on Zimbabwe ACACIA Africa is upping its

popular

choice among Caribbean-bound

Zimbabwe product in 2016.

Brits last year with the number

Three of its small-group safaris,

from the UK & Ireland topping

including the 14-day Southern

200,000 for the very first time.

Africa Magic, seven-day Kruger &

The 201,364 arrivals to the

Victoria Falls and 11-day Delta and

island represented an increase of

Chobe Waterways, will now make

12.2% on 2014. The figures do not

several stops in the country,

include cruise visitors – only those

although all of the itineraries will

staying overnight.

visit Victoria Falls, Bulawayo and

With the launch of a new direct flight

route

from

Dublin

Matobo National Park, one of the

to

best places to view rhino in Africa.

Montego Bay later this summer,

Arno Delport, Sales & Marketing

visitor numbers from the region

Manager at Acacia Africa, said:

look set to increase even further

“Zimbabwe is a rising star in Africa

for 2016.

which prompted us to re-route

The destination has also started

several of our small group tours.

to promote itself as a great place

BY BENJAMIN COREN

2016, with Princess Cruises and Royal

The new $150-million Victoria

for world-class sporting events

UK demand for cruises in Asia is on the

Caribbean –as of this year – offering the

Falls International Airport terminal

which

rise with more itineraries featuring Far

largest number of cruises to the country

opened last December and is being

Eastern destinations.

with 80 and 117 respectively.

hailed as a ‘game changer’ for

are

attracting visitors.

visitjamaica.com

Japan is proving particularly popular

Tony Roberts, Vice President of Princess

and last month Japan National Tourism

Cruises UK, said: “Over the last few years

Organization (JNTO) held its first-ever

we have seen strong demand from the

Japan Cruise Seminar at the country’s

UK market for Asia cruises and the region

embassy in London, attended by over 50

is

Japan specialist tour operators, travel

destination. This year we have had a

agents and reps from cruise companies.

large increase in short voyages around

Five Japanese ports gave presentations

Japan, which allow UK guests to combine

on their facilities and suitability as cruise destinations by highlighting nearby

second-most

acacia-africa.com

popular

a cruise with a land holiday. ” JNTO says in 2013 170,000 cruise passengers visited Japan, and that last

tourist attractions.

UK cruise products featuring Japan have risen from 71 in 2015 to 256 in

NZ has new manager

now our

tourism in Southern Africa.

year this figure rose to one million. seejapan.co.uk

ORLANDO TAKES TO THE ROAD

TOURISM New Zealand has a new VISIT Orlando’s second-annual

regional manager, Pip Casey.

Pip started her role earlier this

training roadshow includes events

year and is based in London. She

in

said of her appointment: “I’m

Edinburgh running until March 17.

excited to be back in the UK and

Offering a one-stop-shop training

looking forward to helping to

session on all Orlando has to offer,

boost New Zealand’s profile here.

the events will also give agents

Gatwick,

Liverpool

and

“UK holiday arrivals were up

the chance to win a place on Visit

10.9% for last year. UK travellers

Orlando’s VIP Super Fam in the

tend to visit six to seven regions

autumn. Walt Disney World Resort,

and stay 27.4 days so agents have

SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment,

a great opportunity to gain some

Universal Orlando Resort and

high value sales.

Merlin Entertainments will all be

“We host regular fam trips for

involved in the events. Or, if you

agents. The 100% Pure New

want to discover the destination

Zealand

training

online check out its training at:

programme is the best way for the

orlandotravelacademy.com. To learn

specialist

trade to connect with us.”

more about the roadshows visit:

traveltrade.newzealand.com

VisitOrlandoEvent.com/Roadshow

sellingtravel.co.uk

the review

49

SPECIAL OFFERS W RETREAT & SPA MALDIVES

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Garuda’s wonderful pass GARUDA INDONESIA, which is to

The pass can also be tailored to

begin the first non-stop service

one of four different holiday type

between Heathrow and Jakarta on

themes:

March 13, has launched a Wonderful

Heritage and Explore.

Adventure,

Underwater,

Indonesia Travel Pass for those

For example, the Adventure Pass

looking to travel beyond the capital

offers special fares to three to five

and popular Bali.

destinations that showcase activities

There are six price levels: £25 for 1-200 miles, £62 for 450-800 miles

and exploration, including Lombok and Sumbawa.

The Wonderful Indonesia Travel Pass

and £150 for 1400-2000 miles, representing overall savings of up to

is

30% on standard airfares.

Indonesia sales offices and must be

Business class fares for the passes

available

from

the

MEDHUFUSHI ISLAND RESORT MALDIVES Early Booking Offer – 15% Off Room Rates FREE NIGHTS – Stay 7 Pay 6 and Stay 14 Pay 12 Both offers combinable and valid between 01 May – 31 Oct 16

Garuda

purchased outside Indonesia in

are also available starting from £75

combination

with

a

for up to 200 miles and rising to

Indonesia international return ticket.

£469 for 1400-2000 miles.

garuda-indonesia.com

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Garuda

FANTASTIC OFFER for all bookings of minimum 6 Nights: 30% Discount on Room Rates FREE NIGHTS Stay 7 Pay 6 Complimentary Return Speedboat Transfers All above offers combinable Valid for stays between now – 30 Sept 16

Kenya is back in business, says Balala K E N YA’S

Cabinet

His government has also reduced

Secretary Najib Balala visited

park entry fees to a maximum $60

London last month to meet the UK

(and from July 1 will remove VAT)

government and woo the travel

and scrapped children’s visa fees.

Tourism

trade, sending out the message that Kenya is back.

Balala, who heads up Kenya’s first tourism-dedicated cabinet,

At the top of Balala’s agenda was

says he can now be more focused

visiting tour operators to request

on tourism and has a long-term

their feedback on the multi-

plan: “Kenya is back. The President

million-dollar charter incentive

is allocating almost $50 million to

programme his cabinet started this

recover tourism and we want to

January, scrapping landing fees at

create a long term, sustainable

Mombasa and Malindi for charter

strategy leading up to 2030.

airlines until June 2018.

“We want to refresh Kenya’s

He said: “The feedback has been

beach product by addressing

promising. I believe we will have

quality and infrastructure and

three to four new charters by

re-package our safaris to be more

winter, although we had 34

up-market. We are investing in

charters a week from the UK in

security and cleaning up Lamu.”

2011 so we have a long way to go.

magicalkenya.com

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sellingtravel.co.uk OE-base.indd 1

17/02/2016 17:34

50

the review

Island time

JANUARY 18-25, 2016, PHILIPPINES

Philippines capital Manila hosted the 35th ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) this year, which saw over 2600 delegates come together to hear the latest developments from this ever-changing region. Steven Thompson reports Thai Smiles from Bangkok to Cambodia

Seaplane transfers for Busuanga

THAI Smile Airways has started a

BUSUANGA Bay Lodge in Northern

five-times weekly flight from

Palawan is offering direct seaplane

Bangkok to Siem Reap ensuring its

transfers from Manila for $250pp

passengers can now book all the

each way and is offering UK agents

way through from London, with a

a new sales incentive.

short layover in Bangkok, to see the

The luxury 41-room hillside

world famous Angkor Wat. Sunanta

Trai-Ukos,

resort overlooking Busuanga Bay Sales

offers an infinity pool, spa, gym and

Manager, Thai Airways London,

activities

said: “The increase in frequency

biking, birdwatching and diving.

including

mountain

gives passengers more choice and

The resort also has its own

flexibility. We are currently running

Philippines growth

private island where guests can

featured by Thai Airways include a

INCREASED flight frequency and growing

checked-in luggage (23kg) for economy

15% commission on all direct

London to Vietnam return ticket

consumer awareness is helping to push

and two pieces upto 32kg for business.

bookings to the resort and for every

priced £180 plus taxes, and Bali

sales to the Philippines from the UK.

specials to Siem Reap from around £241 return plus taxes”.

Other special fares currently

return from £190 plus taxes. thaismileair.com/en

enjoy watersports, BBQ lunch and an unlimited bar.

Readers of Selling Travel can earn

Speaking at ATF, Christie Navarro of the

ten rooms sold, the agent can earn

Flag carrier Philippine Airlines will

Philippines Tourist Board was optimistic

an additional night free – just

increase flight frequency between London

that hosting the show gave the destination

inform the hotel at booking.

and Manila from four to seven flights a

a further opportunity to showcase what it

busuangabaylodge.com

week by June this year.

has to offer the international market.

Jaime J Bautista, Philippine Airlines

She said: “In 2015, more than 100,000

President, said: “Having daily flights will

visitors from the UK got to experience

provide passengers taking the London to

some of our 7,000-plus islands, wonderful

Manila route with more flexibility .

paradise beaches and amazing diving

The direct service, competitive pricing and

experiences. For the UK visitor, the

onboard offerings makes the journey the

Philippines offers great value for money.

most convenient and relaxing too.”

Plus, most people speak English. We are

The airline has also changed its baggage allowance policy to two pieces of

Asia, with a Spanish heritage twist!” itsmorefuninthephilippines.com

VIETNAM’S RISING STAR PHU QUOC island, just off the south coast of Vietnam, is set to become the

The island is home to unspoilt

gaining in popularity fast.

Roughly the size of Singapore, the

beaches, turquoise sea and lush

new star attraction of Vietnam

island has started to make its

rainforest and is ideal for those

following growing awareness and

mark on the tourism map

seeking somewhere less well known

positive publicity.

following the opening

For most tourists to Vietnam, the

for an Asian island escape.

of a new international

area between Hanoi and Saigon has

airport and a cruise

been the main focus of travel in

terminal in

recent years but Phu Quoc island is

recent years.

discoverphuquoc.com

sellingtravel.co.uk

the review

Checking out...

HOTELS / RESORTS / TRAIN JOURNEYS / CRUISES / AIRPORT REVIEWS

S T A Y : H YAT T C I T Y OF DR E AM S – Manila, Philippines T H E V E R D I CT

BY STEVE THOMPSON

THE BACKGROUND: The Hyatt City of

Dreams Manila is a great base from which to explore Manila without feeling the hustle and bustle of what is a big, busy, polluted, but exciting metropolis.

THE LOCATION: It is set in the new suburb, City Of Dreams, Manila’s answer to Las Vegas but on a smaller scale (for now) with four more huge developments coming in the next few years. Traffic can be bad in Manila but as taxis are cheap trips from here to the sights, shops or restaurants never cost more than a few pounds.

THE ROOM: My 50-square-metre club room, with high-speed internet, was chic in style with modern decor in earth and wood tones. It had great views of the pool area and gardens, and came with a minimalist bathroom which included a bathtub and walk-in shower.

It also came with access to the Club Lounge, an exclusive space that offered complimentary snacks all day and

The hotel has a great location for a short Manila stopover en route to the islands as it is very near to the airport but it is also only a cheap taxi ride into the city. Even though the hotel is in the middle of a casino complex, there are still plenty of places to escape to and relax. If your client does want a gamble, the casino is

complimentary pre-dinner drinks.

KEY FACILITIES: The hotel has an outdoor pool set in landscaped gardens, a large fitness centre with all the latest equipment and a beauty salon for hair, makeup and nails. There is also DreamPlay which is the world’s first family centre from DreamWorks.

RESTAURANTS/BARS: Within the hotel itself there are two wining and dining establishments selling authentic local

and international cuisine. However, within the City of Dreams area there are around 20 restaurants and bars catering for all tastes and budgets. For those who like a bit of celebrity spotting, the Pangaea and Chaos bars are among those renowned as hotspots for the ‘beautiful people’ of Manila.

always open for a flutter ideal during the night when the jetlag starts to kick in!

RATES: Rates start from £80 per night

Parañaque, Manila, Philippines, 1701  hyatt.com;  +63 2 691 1234;  cityofdreamsmanila@hyatt.com

S TAY : THE PARK HOTEL – Amsterdam, Netherlands

BY LAURA GELDER

THE BACKGROUND: This old 189-room

hotel was refurbished in 2009 and is now an ultra-trendy four-star boutique.

THE LOCATION: Walking distance to the city centre, it is far enough away to avoid the inevitable stag party crowd. On my doorstep was the pretty Vondelpark, P.C. Hooftstraat (a designer shopping street)

and the Museum Quarter, home to the Rijksmuseum, Stedelijk Museum of Modern Art and Van Gogh Museum.

THE ROOM: My superior room was compact, with two frosted glass pods making the toilet and shower (make sure you shut the door before you turn on the water!). As a business traveller’s bolt hole it was fine but a couple might

want to upgrade to the executive category or a suite. Amenities included a desk, TV, safe and mini bar. The gorgeous amenities came from Dutch brand Dead Clean.

RESTAURANTS/BARS: I couldn’t get a place for dinner at MOMO Restaurant, famed for its Asian fusion food and designer vibe, so I settled instead for an excellent homemade-tasting chicken curry from the Living Room, or lobby bar.

This cosy area has stacked bookshelves, stylish but unfussy furniture and a minimalist fireplace giving a warm glow.

The Jewelry Bar is also a patisserie, selling some fine-looking macaroons.

FACILITIES: Park 24H Workout is open 24/7 and can even provide work out gear if your client forgets theirs. The hotel is partnered with the City Street Spa on the pretty Prinsengracht canal.

Stadhouderskade 25, 1071 ZD Amsterdam.  parkhotel.nl;  31 (0)20 710 7277

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51

T H E V E R D I CT It looks like I will have to go back to the Park Hotel, as I was reliably informed by a local that MOMO is the place to be, particularly on a Friday night when they have live DJs. I loved the public areas of this quirky hotel, which included stain glass windows on the landings and a gallery zone in the lobby showcasing local artists. The food was fantastic and the service always friendly.

RATES: The rack rate for the Park Hotel’s superior room is from €375.

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the review

Positive vibes

21 - 23 JANUARY 2016

The 33rd Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association’s (CHTA) annual Caribbean Travel Marketplace (CTM) was held at the Atlantis Paradise Island in The Bahamas. Sally Parker rounds up the top stories…

The Bahamas expands its hotel portfolio

From the show floor

NEW hotels and refurbishments

for us as part of our continuing

are set to draw more visitors to The

vision to position the Caribbean as

Bahamas and were top of the

the most desirable year-round,

agenda at this year’s show.

warm weather destination.”

“2016 will be the year of romance

HUGH RILEY

Nassau has seen the opening of

SECRETARY GENERAL, CTO

two boutique hotels. Island House, a 60-room, Bahamian owned, fivestar, offers a ‘retreat’ experience in

“People often say they have been

West Nassau, and Ocean West is a

to and ‘done’ the Caribbean when in

10-room converted mansion on

fact they have just been to one

West Bay street.

destination – which is one reason

The former Holiday Inn Sunset Resort Bahamas in Nassau is being rebranded as a Courtyard by Marriott. Its 201 rooms, two restaurants and two pools will be fully open by April.

it’s so important to show the variety

Caribbean looks ahead THE Rt. Honourable Perry G. Christie, the

targeted for growth.

of product offerings.”

KAROLIN TROUBETZKOY, PRESIDENT OF CHTA “The Marketplace is an ideal

The five-star Hilton at Resorts

Prime Minister of The Bahamas opened

Bahamas Minister of Tourism the Hon.

forum at which to meet key industry

World Bimini will have its grand

the Caribbean Marketplace with the

Obie Wilchcombe noted the importance

buyers and update them on our

opening in April. Every room

announcement that the region had

of the private and public sector working

marketing initiatives and training

overlooks the water and it will offer

enjoyed a 6% increase in tourist arrivals,

together to fully realise the islands’

plans for the coming year. But it’s

diving and fishing along with a spa.

although he stressed that it faced fierce

tourism potential.

not just about networking with

Warwick Paradise Island Resort

global competition.

Karolin Troubetzkoy, the new President

existing contacts; it also enables us

opens in May as a four-star, adults

The theme for the 2016 show was

of CHTA, welcomed 16 new companies to

to engage with new tour operators

only, all-inclusive and will offer 245

deepening and broadening the appeal of

the event including niche market

– and this year was particularly

rooms along with two a la carte

the Caribbean in order to remain ahead

operators such as Caribbean Fun Travel, a

successful in this regard as we’ve

restaurants, three bars and a spa.

of the competition. Christie stressed the

UK specialist with a focus on scuba

secured some great exposure with

importance

new

diving and activity holidays, preparing

our European partners.”

development called The Pointe will

opportunities to grow the industry, and

tailor-made itineraries to Aruba, Bonaire,

SUZY

open in 2017 and will create a new

said sports, medical and religious tourism

Curacao, St. Martin, Saba and Grenada.

DIRECTOR, JEWEL RESORTS

‘city’ in downtown Nassau with 11

were just some of the areas being

caribbeanhotelandtourism.com/marketplace

A British Colonial Hilton Hotel

of

looking

at

TROT T,

COMMERCIAL

restaurants, shops, marina linked to the cruise terminal.

IN BRIEF Sports tourism is taking off: The

New flight-lift into Bahamas: British

Additions for Atlantis: Atlantis

Marathon Bahamas attracted 1,000

Airways will increase its capacity to The

Paradise Island has invested $16

participants this January and kicked off

Bahamas by 30% from July 1, when it

million in a variety of projects including

a calendar of events which also

will introduce a Boeing 777 to the route.

new furnishings and a refreshed colour

included a Rum Festival in February

Delta is also adding new flights from

scheme for all the suites in The Cove.

and the second year of the Bahamas

Atlanta to North Eleuthera and American

New restaurant, 77º West, offers South

Junkanoo Carnival which will take

Airlines is adding Miami to San Salvador

American-inspired cuisine with a

place from May 4-6.

where there is a Club Med.

Bahamian touch.

bahamasjunkanoocarnival.com

batraveltrade.com; delta.com; aa.com

atlantisbahamas.com

sellingtravel.co.uk

product update: caribbean

looking into

future the

The Caribbean will see some major hotel openings and developments this year. Laura Gelder and Sally Parker look ahead

sellingtravel.co.uk

T

hink of the Caribbean and you may think it’s simple: sun, sea and sand, same old, same old and nothing much changes.

Think again! Visitor numbers are rising, changes to APD charges have helped make the region more competitive and look beyond the stunning scenery and you’ll find new product, new hotels and a growing range of attractions emerging weekly.

Operators report strong growth and some have added new destinations. Dominican Republic is reportedly a star performer and new air options to come include British Airways additional capacity to The Bahamas, starting July 1 and a new direct weekly flight from Manchester to Aruba from Thomson Airways, starting in May. The reintroduction of the LIAT daily service to Anguilla from Antigua now also makes access easier from the UK as it is timed

53

54

product update: caribbean

“The new LIAT service from Antigua to Anguilla is great news for discerning UK travellers who yearn to discover the real Caribbean. Authentic Anguilla has glorious beaches” CAROLYN BROWN, DIRECTOR UK & IRELAND ANGUILLA TOURIST BOARD

to connect with both British Airways and Virgin Atlantic flights from London.

Carolyn Brown, Director UK & Ireland for the Anguilla Tourist Board, said: “This is great news for discerning UK travellers who yearn to discover the real Caribbean. Now just a 45-minute hop away from Antigua, authentic Anguilla has glorious beaches and an excellent restaurant scene.”

Hotel developments are coming thick and fast too. Boutique hotel Zemi Beach House, for example, is the first new hotel to open in Anguilla in six years. The 70-room property will expand to 129 rooms by the end of the year.

Accommodation ranges from deluxe rooms with ocean views to a three-bedroom penthouse with terrace, kitchen and rooftop plunge pool. The property has five food and beverage options, spa, kids club, two pools, tennis and a fitness centre.

In Saint Lucia, the famous wellness retreat, the BodyHoliday resort, is renovating 52 guest rooms, redesigning them to fit the property’s Sleep-Well Design concept which aims to aid restful sleep with noise cancellation walls, light dimmers and Bluetooth sound systems offering calming music. The rooms

have all new furniture, freestanding soaking tubs and décor featuring driftwood. They will also have revamped high-speed wifi.

The resort’s award-winning wellness centre also received a facelift recently adding five treatments to the inclusive treatments menu, including an aromatherapy massage and Thalgo oxygen facial.

Caribtours has teamed up with BodyHoliday for ‘September Solos’, a month dedicated to the solo traveller. Running from August 28

Dreams Resorts & Spas provide a high level of luxury and ambiance for couples and families in unparalleled tropical settings. Elegant restaurants, chic bars and lounges, children’s and teen’s clubs and world-class spas create an environment of ultimate enjoyment for every kind of guest.

Contact your preferred Tour Operator to book.

Visit our Facebook page ‘AMRAgents UK’ from the 14-24 March to participate in our EASTER EGGSTRAVAGANZA QUIZ! Answer the daily questions correctly for your chance to win a place on one of our upcoming FAM trips.

BECOME A MASTER AGENT TODAY AND TAKE ADVANTAGE OF INCREDIBLE INDUSTRY RATES, INCENTIVES AND MORE AT AMRAGENTS.CO.UK.

EXPERIENCE UNLIMITED- LUXURY ® FOR COUPLES AND COUPLES WITH CHILDREN IN COSTA RICA | DOMINICAN REPUBLIC: LA ROMANA • PUNTA CANA MEXICO: CANCUN • HUATULCO • LOS CABOS • NUEVO VALLARTA • PLAYA MUJERES (NOV 2016) • PUERTO AVENTURAS • RIVIERA CANCUN • TULUM | PANAMA (LATE 2018)

product update: caribbean

55

to September 24, the event includes fitness classes and personalised daily spa treatments.

Also in Saint Lucia, couples-only resort Rendezvous has completed the second phase of its $12.5m renovations. The first phase upgraded the hotel’s Seaside and Verandah Suites, while phase two adds a new oceanfront à la carte restaurant, Malabar Beach Club where guests dine on fresh, local island ingredients under an open sail, with furniture made from the local Samaan tree and driftwood.

In the Cayman Islands, Kimpton Hotels opens its first property outside of the US in November.

Kimpton Seafire Resort and Spa will be Grand Cayman’s first boutique resort. The 261 rooms will feature contemporary design and access to the island’s famous Seven Mile Beach. It will have three restaurants and two ocean-view pools and bars, a native botanical garden and a spa.

In Barbados, Elegant Hotels has bought the four-star Waves Hotel and Spa and will close in April for refurbishment, reopening in July.

Exclusive enclaves A Park Hyatt is slated to open on St. Kitts later this year. The resort will be part of Christophe Harbour, a 2,500-acre development on Banana Bay on the southeast peninsular of the island, with six beaches, a super yacht marina and village plus, coming in 2017, a Tom Fazio championship golf course.

The five-star Park Hyatt St. Kitts will be situated on a secluded area of white-sand beaches overlooking The Narrows, a strait separating St. Kitts and Nevis. Its 125 rooms will combine contemporary architecture with a colonial feel. Many of the suites will offer individual rooftop pools with views of Nevis.

The hotel will have three signature food and beverage outlets and offer activities such as diving, snorkeling, fishing, yachting, and golfing. Its spa will have 12 treatment rooms offering body treatments and massage, and a fully-equipped fitness centre. There will also be an exclusive outdoor infinity pool.

Jamaica is perhaps leading the way regarding

developments. The first Melia hotel for Jamaica, swim up suites) and offer room-only rates and Melia Braco, opened in January between Montego all-inclusive meal plans. The new resort says Bay and Ocho Rios, with 238 rooms. And Mexicoit hopes to put the ‘hip back into the hip strip,’ based Karisma Hotel and Resorts has announced with bold interiors and high-tech facilities. plans to invest more Sandals Resorts has than US$900 million to unveiled an innovative develop nine hotels in construction project “Kimpton hotels opens its first planned for Sandals Jamaica, adding 4,000 property outside the US in the Royal Caribbean Spa rooms to the country’s stock over the next 10 Cayman Islands this November. Resort & Offshore years. Amongst other Kimpton Seafire Resort and Spa Island in Jamaica, active brands on the which will see the will be Grand Cayman’s first island is h10 hotels, addition of five boutique resort and situated which is starting to overwater suites to on the island’s famous Seven build in Jamaica. its private offshore A Spanish Court Hotel island, scheduled to Mile Beach” will open in Montego open later this year.

Bay late in 2016, in Each of the addition to the popular Spanish Court Hotel suites will feature a private infinity pool and in Kingston. This ultra-modern, contemporary outdoor shower, a hammock for two hanging hotel will have 125 rooms (including some over the water and steps leading from the sundeck into the ocean. Inside, the 1,600sqft suites will include a large walk-in shower and soaking tub. The bedroom and exterior sundeck will feature glass flooring to showcase the over-the-water style. All of the suites will also include personal butler service.

The all-inclusive Hilton Rose Hall Resort & Spa in Montego Bay Jamaica recently added 750ft of beach and created a new cabana section. It has renovated its 489 rooms, built a pizzeria and Italian kitchen restaurant and a coffee shop and extended its grounds to by 26 acres.

Facing page: Hilton Rose Hall Resort & Spa; luxury ocean room BodyHoliday, Saint Lucia. This page clockwise: Park Hyatt St Kitts; Kimpton, Grand Cayman and Sandals over-the-water suites at night, Jamaica

sellingtravel.co.uk

56

product update: caribbean

Promotional activities will see sports tourism, events and romance taking centre stage for the region while innovative packages now encourage visitors to go beyond the beach and experience more of the local culture. Tamarind

by Elegant Hotels in Barbados for example has added a new ‘Hidden Treasures’ tour taking in lesser-known attractions and experiences.

It is clear that the Caribbean is evolving and reinventing itself at every turn.

Where to book it

“The first Melia hotel for Jamaica, Melia Braco, opened in January and Mexico-based Karisma Hotel and Resorts has announced plans to invest more than US$900 million to develop nine hotels on the island”

 CARIBTOURS – 020 7751 0660 Caribtours has secured an exclusive 30% discount on the September Solos special from the BodyHoliday, with seven nights starting from £1,889pp. The price includes breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner daily, unlimited premium drinks, selected wines and Champagne, personalised daily spa treatments, all water and land sports, tuition, fitness classes, a hosted cocktail party, dinner and sunset cruise.

Caribtours.co.uk

From left: Rendezvous resort, Saint Lucia; Sandals kitchnette within the over-the-water-suites, Jamaica

Fly Air Europa and enjoy some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean.

All flights are via Madrid.

For more information call: 0871 423 0717 or visit us at: www.aireuropaexperts.com

 ITC LUXURY TRAVEL – 01244 355 570 The operator has a stay seven nights pay for six deal available at the recently refurbished Anguilla resort Malliouhana. Prices are from £1,965pp (saving up to £460pp) based on two adults sharing a garden view deluxe room for seven nights including breakfast, return economy flights and private transfers.

The deal is valid for travel completed between June 1 and August 27 2016. itcluxurytravel.co.uk 

six of the best

celebrating in

St. Kitts One of the best ways to experience the colour, personality and culture of St. Kitts is to visit the island when a major event or festival is taking place.

From world-class cricket to the national carnival, there is always something exciting going on TO ST. KITTS ANNUAL ST. KITTS 1NEVIS CROSS-CHANNEL SWIM 3MUSIC FESTIVAL MARCH 27, 2016 The fifteenth annual cross-channel swim is one of the ‘must-do’ open water swim events in the Caribbean. The twoand-a-half-mile crossing is open to swimmers of all ages and levels, so bring your flippers and snorkels and take on the challenge. It begins on Oualie Beach on Nevis then crosses the Narrows to finish at Cockleshell Beach on St. Kitts. facebook.com/nevis-to-st-kitts-cross-channel-swim nevistostkittscrosschannelswim.com

2 TRI-NATION CRICKET SERIES

JUNE 13-17, 2016 St. Kitts will be hosting matches of the Tri-nation Series, featuring Australia, South Africa and, of course, the West Indies.

The sound of willow on leather will echo throughout the capital, Basseterre, where visitors will be able to watch three world-class matches at Warner Park Stadium. windiescricket.com/fixtures

JUNE 23-25, 2016 Held at the Warner Park Stadium, the St. Kitts Music Festival attracts large numbers of visitors and locals alike. Now in its 20th year, this must-attend event for music lovers features a blend of popular genres from R&B to pop and reggae. Over the years the line-up has included world-class artists such as Lionel Richie, Aswad, Ali Campbell and Jason Derulo. stkittsmusicfestival.net

KITTS & NEVIS 4ST. RESTAURANT WEEK

JULY 13-24, 2016 Foodies will rejoice at the return of the island’s annual food festival. The emphasis is on special menus at special prices that feature ingredients and authentic Kittitian cuisine. Dining options range from fine dining to beach bars to street vendors and locally-owned restaurants. The success of last year’s Restaurant Week means the event is set to be a mainstay on the island. facebook.com/pages/st-kitts-nevis-restaurant-week; restaurantweek.kn

ST. KITTS 5ANNUAL LATIN FIESTA

OCTOBER 19-23, 2016 Promoting multicultural links between St. Kitts and the countries of Latin America, this annual party event encompasses music, dance, art and fiesta. The fun and celebrations wind up with the huge Latin Fiesta party held at St. Kitts Cruise Terminal, Port Zante. It is now in its seventh year. latinfestivalstkitss.com; facebook.com/latinfestivalstkitts

ANNUAL ST. KITTS & 6 NEVIS CARNIVAL (SUGAR MAS) DECEMBER 2016 - JANUARY 2017 From mid-December onwards, Christmas and Carnival festivities come together for the annual carnival known as Sugar Mas. Events include singing and dancing competitions, Caribbean beauty pageants, the J’Ouvert Parade and the Junior Carnival Parade. The Senior Calypso and Soca Monarchs are two of the biggest highlights of the festival. stkittsneviscarnival.com; facebook.com/SKNCarnival

HOW TO GET THERE: British Airways operates a twice-weekly service, on Saturdays and Wednesdays, from London-Gatwick.

British Airways also has a daily service to Antigua, enabling travellers to reach St. Kitts via the Caribbean carrier, LIAT.

sellingtravel.co.uk

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58

luxury cruising

pushing the boat out As the desire for luxury travel continues to rise, cruise clients are increasingly spoilt for choice, say Jeannine Williamson

C

ruise lines are responding to the growing demand for luxury travel with a wealth of lush options including yachting experiences, concierge services, exclusive tours, gourmet dining and personal butler service.

In addition to new ships and extensive refurbishments to keep existing vessels at the top of their game, the 2016/17 brochures from premium cruise lines reveal extra time in port, more overnights and longer sailings.

These cruises can be targeted at ‘luxe-loving’ clients who normally spend their holidays on dry land as well as seasoned cruisers looking for a stylish experience at sea.

“First-time luxury cruise clients appreciate the same high standards of service and attention to detail that they’ve grown used to while holidaying in some of the world’s finest hotels,” says Helen Tabois, ITC’s Senior Product and Marketing Manager, Caribbean & Cruise.

“We’re also seeing a trickle through of guests who’ve cruised several times on larger ships and are seeking a more luxurious experience.”

Michael Steffl, Manager of International Sales, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, reports a high number of requests for the Caribbean and Cuba.

Lynn Narraway, UK Managing Director of Holland America Line, adds: “We’ve seen a growing trend in holidaymakers looking for more authentic and original experiences.

Destinations popular in 2015 and likely to still be in demand next year include our Asia tours and itineraries that call at Myanmar, Indonesia and Vietnam. Holidaymakers are also looking for something different whilst onboard and we have a number of new key partnerships, such as a live concert specially adapted for the line, based on BBC Earth’s Frozen Planet programme.”

From combining a cruise with a trip on the Orient Express to paddling a kayak in Alaska or embarking on a mystery cruise, the forthcoming season promises a host of exciting new and rewarding experiences.

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luxury cruising

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Perfect 10 Crystal Cruises: The cruise line is building three new 1,000-passenger luxury expedition class ships, with a one-to-one passenger to crew ratio. The company has also just announced plans to restore America’s flagship, the SS United States, to a modern luxury cruise ship.

Celebrity Cruises: Highlights from Celebrity Cruises include the first-ever nine- to 15-night sailings from Abu Dhabi with Celebrity Constellation, which will homeport there for the 2016-17 winter season, plus itineraries coinciding with events such as Rio Carnival and New Orleans’ Mardi Gras. Overnight stays include Bridgetown, Barbados, and this year will see the introduction of Jet Set Sail, an exclusive VIP air charter service.

Oceania: This year Oceania will offer its most diverse and extensive array of itineraries, including Australian cruises and six sailings that traverse the Panama Canal. Voyages have been boosted by the addition of Sirena, which will join its trio of 684-passengers ships in April. For clients that want to explore the far corners of the globe, the line has announced a new 180-day Around the World cruise aboard Insignia, the longest-ever world cruise.

Cunard: Cunard’s flagship Queen Mary 2 enters a 25-day dry dock in May that will see the addition of 15 single cabins. Due to increasing popularity, 30 more Britannia Club Balcony staterooms will be created, with perks that include meals in a dedicated resturant. New cruises include seven-night European sailings and nine- to 12-night voyages on Queen Victoria.

Holland America: The newest ship in Europe this year will be Holland America Line’s Koningsdam, launching in April. The 2,650-passenger vessel will herald the introduction of the line’s new Pinnacle Class.

Sailing in the Mediterranean for its summer maiden season, Koningsdam will showcase a new area called Blend, the only purpose-built wine-blending facility at sea.

Azamara: Azamara’s two mid-sized ships, the 638-passenger Azamara Journey and Azamara Quest, are undergoing ‘bow to stern’ refurbishments ahead of the 2016 season. The upgrades, inspired by the four elements of earth, water, fire and air, will include new spa suites featuring rain showers with ocean views.

Seabourn: In response to passenger demand, and having not sailed there for 15 years, small-ship line Seabourn returns to Alaska in 2017. Seabourn Sojourn will offer a series of 10- to 13-night itineraries from Vancouver, British Columbia, and Anchorage.

In the meantime, its fleet will increase to four with the launch of 604-passenger Seabourn Encore later this year. Intrepid passengers can paddle their own canoe through amazing landscapes.

“Our Winter Collection for 2016-17 includes a beautifully blended mix of must-see, bucket list travel destinations and undiscovered jewels only accessible by our fleet of intimate and luxurious ships” JASON MONTAGUE, PRESIDENT & CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER, OCEANIA CRUISES

Hapag-Lloyd: If your customers are the types to enjoy a surprise, suggest Hapag-Lloyd Cruises’ first mystery cruise on Europa 2. Sailing from Turkey in May, the ports of call along the route will be decided by the guests and captain during the cruise. Alternatively, the line is calling at Dublin and Oceania, dropping anchor off the coast of Fiji.

Silversea: Bookings have opened for Silversea’s new flagship Silver Muse. The 596-passenger vessel will have the highest number of large suites in the fleet, culminating in the 1,281sqft owner’s suite. There will be eight dining venues, including a Relais & Chateaux restaurant. Silver Muse will debut with a seven-night Monte Carlo round-trip in April 2017.

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Regent Seven-Sea: Regent Seven Sea Cruises’ 750-pax Seven Seas Explorer launches in the Mediterranean in July and will also sail from Monte Carlo. Staterooms feature the 3,875sq ft Regent Suite, with an in-room spa retreat and Steinway piano. The line has also teamed up with the Venice Simplon-OrientExpress for travel from London to Venice, followed by a 10-night Mediterranean cruise on Seven Seas Mariner.

Where to book it  ITC LUXURY TRAVEL– 01244 355 527 A 10-night Venice to Rome cruise on the Seven Seas Explorer, calling at Slovenia, Croatia, Montenegro and Greece, is priced from £5,250pp, sharing a veranda suite. Departing August 3, the price includes flights. itcluxurytravel.co.uk  HAPAG-LLOYD CRUISES – +49 40 30703070

The 10-night surprise cruise from Istanbul to Piraeus on Europa 2, departing May 14 leads in from £3,750pp, cruise only. hl-cruises.com

 OCEANIA CRUISES – 0845 505 1920 The 180-day world cruise on Insignia departs from Miami on January 6, 2017, taking in 36 countries, 50 UNESCO World Heritage sites and 98 ports of call. An inside cabin leads in at £25,050pp. oceaniacruises.com 

Top right: Vancouver’s harbour Bottom right: Monte Carlo at night

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state profile

Tennessee - The Volunteer State The Nashville Cats Nashville’s Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum is the world’s largest popular music museum.

Tour Music Row and visit the historic RCA Studio B, Ryman Auditorium and Grand Ole Opry.

Elvis lives!

Get a feel for the King’s life and times on a tour of his Graceland Mansion in Memphis. It has been preserved as an enduring memorial to him. Narrated iPad tours of the mansion are offered.

Soul survivor The world’s only soul music museum, located in Memphis, tells the story of Stax Records and other American soul music through videos, vintage musical instruments and recording equipment.

Go loco Celebrate the famous Glen Miller song, which is 75 this year, by staying at Chattanooga Choo Choo Historic Hotel, formerly the Terminal Station through which the celebrated steam train once passed.

Titanic tales Visit the Titanic Museum in Pigeon Forge, a half-size version of the RMS Titanic, and get an insight into what it was like aboard the stricken liner through more than 400 artefacts from the ship and its passengers.

“Be sure to include Chattanooga and the Great Smoky Mountains in Tennessee packages. There are luxurious chalets in the mountains still close enough to Dollywood, the Titanic Museum and malls”

E

ven if you’re not a fan of country music - and I must admit I’m not Nashville gets under your skin and touches your soul, says Peter Ellegard

I AM strolling along bustling Lower Broadway – Nashville’s Honky Tonk Highway – and I find myself drawn into some of the many honky tonk bars blaring out live guitar and fiddle music.

Before I know it, I have bellied up to the bar and am sipping a cold beer and tapping my foot to music I would never listen to back home. I draw the line at ‘boot scootin’ (line dancing) across the floor with the locals.

Along the road I see I could buy boots and country gear along with a beer and burger while listening to a live band at Robert’s Western World. With no cover charges, I can wander in and out of venues to check out the entertainment. What’s more, the vibes continue morning, noon and night as the honky tonks rock until 03.00.

TOE -TAPPING IN TENNESSEE Tennessee has come of age as a holiday destination for UK travellers. Where once it figured on a Deep South tour mainly for overnight stops in Nashville and Memphis, Brits are now spending longer in the state, criss-crossing from Chattanooga to Knoxville and the Great Smoky Mountains to Lynchburg and the Jack Daniel’s distillery (150 years old this year).

More than 100 UK operators now sell Tennessee and interest is soaring. Funway Holidays saw sales for Tennessee grow by 6% in 2015, with 2016 even stronger and already 43% up year-on-year, Similarly, Travel 2 says Memphis has seen 20% growth over the previous year in recent months, with the Elvis Presley-themed Heartbreak Hotel the operator’s most popular booking.

Known as Music City USA, Nashville is America’s undisputed ‘Capital of Country’.

Devotees should make a pilgrimage to the 4,000-seat Grand Ole Opry House 10 miles from downtown, for country music’s biggest stars.

Originally started as a weekly radio programme in 1925, the Grand Ole Opry was based at the historic Ryman

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Great Smoky Mountains

Auditorium for over 40 years until 1974 when it moved into its present home, returning to the Ryman each winter.

Visitors can stay next door at the sprawling Gaylord Opryland Hotel, with the world’s only Jack Daniel’s restaurant; shop in the adjacent Opry Mills mall, built where the Opryland theme park once stood; and cruise the Cumberland River watching a country music show aboard the General Jackson Showboat.

Many UK clients continue from Memphis through Mississippi to New Orleans, although eastern Tennessee is becoming more popular combined with Kentucky and Virginia.

The centenary of America’s National Park Service this year is set to boost the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which even though it is the most-visited national park, with 10 million visitors a year, is relatively unknown in the UK compared to the likes of Yellowstone and the Grand Canyon.

This spring sees the launch of the new Tennessee Music Pathway, a driving trail that will connect the state’s music history, venues and famous artists, capitalising on its musical heritage.

Reservations are also now being accepted for the Guest House at Graceland, alongside Elvis Presley’s iconic Graceland Mansion. The 450-room hotel will have its grand opening in October.

state profile

TOURISM TALK

Grist Mill, Dollywood

VISIT

“Tennessee is currently reaping the rewards of 20 years of investment in the UK. We had a banner year in 2015 with cities and attractions across the state reporting record international visitation. It is not one factor but many that benefit Tennessee. For example, in the last couple of years we have had the Dolly Parton UK concert tour, the Elvis In Concert UK tour and the record-breaking Elvis exhibit at the O2 in London. Throw in the much-watched Nashville TV show, now in its fourth series, and the Tennessee brand is established in the UK.” David Nicholson, UK rep, Tennessee Tourism 

GRACELAND

®

in Memphis

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VACATIONS TO AMERICA 01582 469777 A 15-day ‘Country Roads’ fly/ drive costs from £1,895pp, taking in Nashville’s music scene, Dollywood theme park and Tennessee’s Great Smoky Mountains, Washington D.C., Virginia, West Virginia and Kentucky. vacationstoamerica.com SAMPLE DEALS

INSIGHT VACATIONS 0800 533 5625 Two nights in both Nashville and Memphis are included in a 14-day luxury escorted Sumptuous Soul of America coach tour with a culinary slant from Chicago to New Orleans. Prices start from £5,325p and include flights. insightvacations.com

GROUP RATES AVAILABLE

GRACELAND.COM/GROUPS · 00 1-901-332-3322 © EPE. Graceland is a trademark of EPE. Elvis Presley™; Photo © 2016 ABG EPE IP LLC

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the gambia

the recovery

position

Whilst global factors beyond its control hampered The Gambia’s tourism prospects, in 2016 they look set to aid a better year for the destination, says Cameron Roberts

D

ue mainly to a chance matter of geography, The Gambia’s tourism prospects nose-dived in recent years but its prospects for regaining its status as an idyllic West African haven in 2016 are rising.

Visitor numbers to the destination took a heavy tumble because of its close proximity to Sierra Leone, Liberia and Guinea, those countries worst affected by the Ebola virus.

As Louise Thomas, Marketing and PR Executive, The Gambia Experience, explains: “In 2015, tourism was greatly affected by the Ebola outbreak, and negative media coverage prompted a precipitous decline in visitors, despite there being no cases in The Gambia.”

While the misconceptions surrounding the

spread of Ebola took the bottom out of The Gambia’s tourism industry, a more reasonable pricing of its products and other global concerns are contributing to its recovery.

Winter sun competitors, including Egypt and Tunisia, have fallen from favour as they struggle with their ‘high threat from terrorism’ status from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office. Moving forward, The Gambia is anticipating a rise in UK tourists on the back of its ‘safe’ status and year-round sunshine.

Thomas continues: “The Gambia is an untroubled destination with very low crime and the people are renowned for being friendly and welcoming – hence its affectionate tag ‘the smiling coast’.

sellingtravel.co.uk

“The weather is reliably hot, averaging 31C and with long sunshine hours. And as it’s on the same time zone as the UK, there’s no jet lag.”

Away from external influences, The Gambia offers a natural appeal and cultural diversity.

Eco-lodges are becoming more and more widespread, the country has a sizeable leatherback turtle population and large areas of untouched forest – meaning naturelovers are sure to fall for the destination.

A range of special-interest attractions and accommodation options are also big plus points.

“Accommodation includes ‘green lodges’, wildlife reserves, luxury boutique hotels, family-friendly beachfront hotels, spa resorts and simple African style hotels” adds Thomas.

“The Gambia is a safe destination with very low crime and the people are renowned for being friendly and welcoming, hence it is affectionately known as ‘the smiling coast” LOUISE THOMAS, MARKETING AND PR EXECUTIVE, THE GAMBIA EXPERIENCE

Perfect 10 Bird watching: With hundreds of endemic species The Gambia is a paradise for birdwatchers. Clients should check out The Tanji Bird Reserve where they can see more than 250 species in their natural habitat.

The Roots excursion: Learn about the slave trade and The Gambia’s colonial legacy. The excursion includes visits to Kunta Kinteh Island and a boat trip up the River Gambia.

Wassu stone circle: A UNESCO World Heritage site, these 11 stones are the African equivalent of Stonehenge.

The mysterious circles make a great attraction for first-time travellers and seasoned visitors alike.

Matasuku forest: The so-called ‘Holy Forest’ is accessible to visitors via an activity centre within the trees, which allows them to take walking tours of a 405-hectare forest and interact with indigenous wildlife.

Sports fishing: Fish such as dorado and sailfish are plentiful off the Atlantic coast, via Banjul. Highlight to anglers the wealth of excursions focused around deep-sea fishing - these are available from the capital.

Senegambia craft market: Located in Kololi, on the western coast, the craft market is popular for carved sculptures, handmade clothing and jewelry.

The Gambia Discover the diversity of this unique country For an agent log-in, brochure supplies, webinar training or support call the trade team:

01489 866 955 Serenity.co.uk/Trade

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the gambia

“Over the next 12 months the destination aims to increase UK visitation by promoting the country’s diversifying products and services. Special emphasis will be placed on The Gambia’s events calendar” SAMUEL HANCOCK, SALES AND MARKETING DIRECTOR THE GAMBIA TOURISM BOARD (GTB) UK

Mandina Bolong: One of the tributaries of The River Gambia, the Mandina Bolong gives visitors a glimpse of traditional villages, unspoilt landscapes and stilted accommodation on the riverside.

Banjul: The capital offers The Gambia in a nutshell, with bustling markets, a rich history, access to offshore fishing and wildlife all making it a ‘must do’ for first-timers.

Beaches: The Gambia’s appeal as a winter sun destination is not just down to its year-round sunshine, but also its fabulous beaches. Beach-lovers should make a beeline for Paradise Beach in Sanyang, for its stunning sands, and Leybato for a quieter experience.

History: The destination has a variety of museums showing off artifacts from its colonial and tribal history. Visitors should not miss The National Museum of Banjul for ancient artifacts and the Kachikally Museum and Crocodile Pool for the chance to come face to face with a ‘sacred crocodile’.

What’s new

clients access to First Class lounges, priority boarding and a complimentary bar service.  Events: The first Gambia International Bird Festival will take place this October.

The five-day feast for ornithologists will showcase a variety of prime birding locations and will brief attendees on rural tourism and bird conservation.

Tourism talk “The UK market continues to lead the way in visitor numbers. Despite a downturn in 2014, which was felt by the whole of West Africa, UK arrivals didn’t fall as much as other markets such as Germany and Switzerland, and we ended 2015 on 26,764 visitors.

Over the next 12 months the destination aims to increase UK visitation by promoting its diversifying products and services. Special emphasis will be placed on The Gambia’s events calendar including the International Bird Festival.

For agents, we are in the process of setting up an online training programme with Travel

 Accommodation: The Ocean Bay Hotel, Cape Point, has been refurbished. The family-friendly resort has gained a sushi restaurant called ‘Buddha’. The hotel features in the Gambia Experience’s programme.  Flights: The Gambia Experience has a new charter option with Titan Airways. The Star service available onboard offers

Previous page: Stilted accommodation at Matasuku forest.

Clockwise: music and festivals add an authentic local experience; local markets are full of colour; birdlife is a key drawcard in The Gambia

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Uni, which will offer incentives encouraging them to learn more. We also plan to launch a new and improved website. We will also team up with our tour operator partners to organise more fam trips this year” Samuel Hancock, Sales and Marketing Director The Gambia Tourism Board (GTB) UK

Where to book it  EXPLORE – 01252 884 289 A 13-day Senegal and Gambia River Cruise takes small groups on a two-day cruise of the River Gambia and includes a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site Wassu Stone Circle. Prices start at £1,934pp including flights. explore.co.uk

 THE GAMBIA EXPERIENCE – 01489 866 939 A 10-night package that includes a stay at both the luxury Ngala Lodge and Madina Lodge, both accommodations becoming known for their ‘natural credentials’, is available for £1,248pp, including flights. gambia.co.uk 

oman

solid rock

With its mountains, desert forts, wildlife-watching tours and numerous activities, Oman is fast-emerging as a regional tourism powerhouse, says Colin Elson

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T

he Musandam Peninsula, 350 miles north of Muscat, the Omani capital, is a remote and mysterious place.

Cut off from the rest of the country by a narrow strip of the United Arab Emirates, it is known as 'Oman’s Norway' for its wild fjord scenery.

Here the mountains rise ragged and raw, 2,000 metres to the bluest of skies, their grey-and-brown slopes cutting deep into the terrain and dotted with tiny villages whose only access to the wider world is by sea; children travel by boat to school in cities like Khasab on a Monday and board until their return home for the weekend on Friday.

In fact, the best way for the visitor to explore this outpost of Scandinavia in the Arabian Gulf is also by boat, and we join a cruise aboard a traditional wooden Arab dhow, one of many offered by local tour operators.

We sit in the vessel at anchor, the hungry crew casting their fishing lines into shoals of yellowand-blue angel fish while fellow passengers sunbathe on deck or swim in the turquoise waters.

Later in the afternoon we head back to Khasab, with the promise of a spot of dolphinwatching en route, as the animals return home from a day in the wider ocean.

In the event, the animals do not surface, but although not even a tell-tale fin is sighted, we hear the dolphins’ haunting calls to each other as they swim beneath the dhow. This is a place where your clients should expect the unexpected.

Enchanting land Several UK tour operators offer dhow cruises in Musandam in search of dolphins, including Audley Travel (audleytravel.com) and Cox & Kings (coxandkings.co.uk). Local operators include Khasab Travel and Tours (khasabtours.com).

Oman’s fjord region is one of many unexpected attractions in an enchanted and enchanting land. Located at the southern tip of the Arabian Peninsula, the sultanate is a safe and secure Islamic state, home to a friendly population which is proud of the country’s heritage and culture and eager to share it with visitors.

There is much to share. Oman covers 119,500 square miles, with a 1,300-mile coastline. The interior is 82% desert and valleys. The multi-hued Hajar Mountains extend in a dominant arc from the northwest to the southeast, and the countryside is scattered with forts, testament to a stormy history.

Such a varied terrain is tailor-made for short or long breaks with options ranging from a few days in one of the top-class hotels in Muscat, to escorted and self-drive tours of the country on excellent roads.

For the adventurous the choices are almost limitless. You name it and this richly endowed country provides it, including sailing, scuba diving, climbing and caving, trekking, golf, water sports and kiteboarding.

Or for those seeking a less energetic break,

This page: Fishermen head out to the Gulf at sunset. Next page (clockwise from top): Muscat's Grand Mosque at night; Jabal Akhdar, meaning 'The Green Mountain' in Arabic, is part of the Al Hajar mountain range; northern Oman's spectacular Musandam Peninsula

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oman

the 136-room resort in Salalah (antara.com/salalah) will feature 106 chalets and themed eateries.

The DusitD2 Palm Mall Muscat is scheduled for completion next year. With 150 rooms and 100 suites, it will be located in a mixed development, including Oman’s first snow village and largest aquarium.  Attractions: Nizwa Fort, a formidable castle less than two hours’ drive from Muscat, reopened in November last year after refurbishment.

Tourism talk “Arrivals in Oman from the UK and Ireland continued to show sustained growth in 2015 to reach 149,399 visitors by the end of December and we are hoping to build on these figures this year. There are new initiatives and events scheduled for 2016 that will continue to boost tourism –including the exciting and high profile Louis Vuitton America’s Cup World Series, which will be hosted on the waters off Muscat, February 27-28.”

Asma Al Hajri, Deputy Director General International Tourism Promotions Oman

there is shopping, whale-, dolphin- and turtle-watching and easy-paced desert safaris.

All of the above is offered by more than 75 UK tour operators, plus a few other specialists in fields such as birdwatching and golf. They are unanimous in their praise for Oman’s extensive attractions and report rising sales in the UK market.

Michael Fleetwood, Middle East Product Perfect 10 Manager for Cox & Lateral Kings, commented: thinking: “Oman was one of “A year-round destination just Agents should consider our strongest sellers using Oman as they use in 2015 within the over six hours from the UK, Dubai: as a stopover for Middle East and we Oman offers a traditional expect this to continue experience and is completely onward destinations such as Australia or this year. It offers different from the bright lights New Zealand an incredible mix of of Dubai and Abu Dhabi” Arab odyssey: culture and natural For a beauty, from whiteNIKKI HAIN multi-centre Middle tiled mosques and PRODUCT MANAGER, PREMIER HOLIDAYS Eastern experience, desert forts to lagoons, suggest clients twin stretches of sand dunes, lush river valleys and turtle nesting sites. Oman with Dubai, Abu Dhabi or Fujairah.

Another Oman: Encourage clients to Nikki Hain, Product Manager at Premier explore the second city of Salalah and Holidays, added: “Oman is perfect for clients who have been to other areas of the Middle East and the Frankincense Trail for a different take.

Live like a sheikh: For the ultimate are now wanting something different or more glamping experience, suggest clients authentic. A year-round destination just over six stay in Bedouin-style tents with all mod cons, hours from the UK, Oman offers a traditional such as Desert Nights Camp (omanhotels.com). experience and is completely different from Sand safaris: No visit to Oman is the bright lights of Dubai and Abu Dhabi. complete without a 4WD desert trip.

“Everything is very much in keeping with the Edgy experiences: Clients seeking an local culture and traditions, but there are plenty adrenaline rush might try canoeing in of options for both families and couples.”

Musandam or abseiling into Majlis Al Jinn cave.

What’s new Arab antelope: Catch up with one of  Airlines: The new Salalah International Oman’s rarest and most elusive animals Airport (omanairports.co.om), gateway to southern at the Arabian Oryx Sanctuary.

Retail round: Clients can shop for Oman, began operations last November. It has designer fashions in Muscat’s an annual capacity of one million passengers. numerous malls, or pick up a souvenir in a  Hotels: The Anantara hotel group will open traditional souk. two properties in Oman in August 2016. The Tracking down turtles: Head out after Anantara Al-Jabal Al Akhdar (antara.com/al-jabalal-akhdar) will have 115 rooms and a spa, while dark to the beach reserves of Ras Al

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Hadd or Ras Al Jinz and visitors can watch turtles hatching their young.

Cuisines to taste: International fare is featured on many restaurant menus, but the local cuisine, flavoured with spices from India and Africa, is not be missed.

Where to book it  TRAVEL 2 – 0800 0224 182 Five nights at the five-star Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa-Al Waha, near Muscat, cost from £659pp, for in an Executive Sea View Room, with breakfast. Included are flights from London and private transfers. The offer is valid for travel between May 1 and July 14, 2016. travel2.com

 COX & KINGS – 020 3642 0861 The operator has a tailor-made self-drive tour of Oman costing from £1,635pp. The price includes flights from London, local transfers, use of a 4WD, three- and fourstar accommodation and breakfast. coxandkings.co.uk

 PREMIER HOLIDAYS – 08444 937 542 Premier offers five nights at the five-star Chedi Muscat from £999pp, including British Airways flights from London, transfers and breakfast. The deal is available from May 1 to September 30, with other dates possible. trade.premierholidays.co.uk 

Y O U R

G U I D E

T O

River Cruising CONTENTS • 68 New vessels for 2016 • 70 Multi-generational

cruising • 72 Rhone focus • 74 Luxury river cruising • 79 Mythbusting • 80 At a Glance

LUCIA ROWE, CHAIR, CLIA

“I truly think there are good reasons for

“Then there is the political instability of

RIVER CRUISE COMMITTEE

both of these scenarios and there are a few

recent months to take into account. This has

“February is done and dusted but

key facts that river cruise companies have to

been negatively influencing certain source

many river cruise operators are still not sure

take into consideration when looking ahead.

markets and forced river cruise operators to

what 2016 will look like in terms of bookings

“Firstly, source markets are incredibly

adjust and find new markets to sell into.

and demand. Quite a few river companies

important at the moment. Operators who

can already show a double-digit growth

have concentrated primarily on one or two

the European travel industry which has

compared with last year, whereas others are

source markets are finding it difficult to

become one of ‘wait-and-see’. Consumers

already tempting potential customers with

fill the huge, extra capacity that has been

are somewhat holding back but it is

big savings including two-for-one offers.

generated over the last three years.

clear holidays are still being planned.”

sellingtravel.co.uk

“And then there is the general state of

68

river cruising

New arrivals

all aboard & launching this year KEY:

2016 is witnessing the launch of no less than 16 new river ships worldwide.

Selling Travel gets a sneak preview

LAUNCHING

MAY 2016

185

MISSISSIPPI

KEY FEATURES: This new paddlewheel riverboat is similar to sister ship, Queen of the Mississippi. The elegant design combines Victorian accents with gleaming woodwork and brass fixtures. It boasts the largest staterooms of any small cruise ship and 60-sqft balconies.

AmaViola

APRIL 2016

166

DANUBE

KEY FEATURES: Like its sister Imagery II, Passion is an allsuite ship with staterooms that are 30% larger than the industry standard. Customers on both vessels will enjoy L’Occitane bath products, luxurious Comfort Collection beds and Egyptian cotton linens.

2016

164

AMA WATERWAYS AmaStella

RHINE/DANUBE

KEY FEATURES: AmaWaterways is launching two identical ships this year. Both ships feature staterooms with an outside area, including twin balconies on the Violin and Cello decks. The suites comprise 350-sqft with a sitting area and marble bathroom.

Princess Panhwar

JANUARY 2016

2016

164

RHINE/DANUBE

KEY FEATURES: AmaStella is designed along the same lines as AmaViola. They both feature a Panoramic Lounge; beauty salon and spa; walking track, heated pool and fitness room; bikes; and The Chef’s Table restaurant where the chef prepares dishes in front of guests.

APT RIVER CRUISES

AVALON WATERWAYS

72

IRRAWADDY

Avalon Imagery II

APRIL 2016

128

RHINE, BASEL TO AMSTERDAM

KEY FEATURES: The 36 staterooms and suites feature a French or outside balcony, queen-size or twin beds, and flat-screen TV. The air-conditioned lounge or sun deck are the places to soak in the passing riverside scenery.

Onboard facilities include a spa and fitness centre.

KEY FEATURES: Avalon's Imagery II and sister ship Passion have two full decks of suites with wall-to-wall panoramic windows. They comprise 50 panorama suites, 12 deluxe staterooms and each vessel also has two Royal Suites measuring 300-sqft.

CROISIEUROPE

CROISIEUROPE

AVALON WATERWAYS Avalon Passion

ITINERARIES

AMA WATERWAYS

AMERICAN CRUISE LINES America

CAPACITY

Elbe Princesse

SPRING 2016

80

ELBE

KEY FEATURES: The 95-metre ship has two decks and two paddle wheels which allow it to navigate year-round in the lowest waters of the Elbe. It offers 40 outward-facing 15-sqm cabins plus a restaurant, panoramic lounge with central dance floor and a large sun deck.

sellingtravel.co.uk

Deborah

2016

24

FRENCH CANALS

KEY FEATURES: This contemporary, stylish hotel barge accommodates just 24 passengers. The vessel is fully airconditioned with 12 outward-facing cabins with windows or portholes and private bathrooms. There is a spacious lounge and dining room and a fleet of bicycles.

river cruising

CRYSTAL RIVER CRUISES Crystal Mozart

JULY 2016

160

DANUBE

Calendar

SCENIC Scenic Spirit

JANUARY 2016

68

MEKONG

KEY FEATURES: The largest vessel on European rivers, Mozart features suites ranging from 203-sqft up to the two-bedroom Crystal Suites of 860-sqft. Other features include dining rooms, a promenade, spa and fitness centre, indoor pool, beauty salon and library.

KEY FEATURES: Scenic’s two new Asian-based boats, Spirit and Aura, feature the same design and facilities: a sun deck, open air cinema, outdoor lounge and pool and bar.

There is gourmet dining in a choice of venues. Indoor is a library and wellness facilities including a gym.

SCENIC

SCENIC

Scenic Aura

SEPTEMBER 2016

44

IRRAWADDY

KEY FEATURES: Aura has identical facilities to the Spirit and includes gourmet dining in a choice of venues. a library , wellness facilities and a gym. Scenic Aura also has a beauty salon and steam and sauna rooms. Both ships offer butler services.

Scenic Amber

2016

Scenic Azure

APRIL 2016

96

DOURO

TAUCK JUNE 2016

130

RHINE, MAIN, DANUBE

TAUCK

KEY FEATURES: Like its sister ship Azure, Amber has a sun deck and vitality pool. Azure also has a Panorama lounge and bar giving great views of the Douro. This more intimate ship has a capacity of 96 passengers. There is a butler service on both ships

Joy

169

KEY FEATURES: Both Scenic's Amber and Azure are designed along similar lines, with a sun deck and vitality pool.

There are multiple dining venues and wellness facilities include a fitness centre. A hairdresser and massages are also available on Amber.

SCENIC

DANUBE

KEY FEATURES: As on board Grace, Joy also has eight of the company's award-winning 225-sqft loft cabins with a raised seating area and correspondingly higher ceiling and taller window allowing more fresh air and natural light than is usual on a lower deck.

Grace

APRIL 2016

130

RHINE

KEY FEATURES: Grace and Joy are inspiration class ships with eight 225-sqft loft cabins, 22 300-sqft suites with French balconies, 32 225-sqft cabins and 13 smaller cabins up to 190-sqft. Arthur’s offer casual dining while Compass Rose is for fine-dining.

UNIWORLD BOUTIQUE RIVER CRUISES Ganges Voyager II

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JANUARY 2016

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GANGES

KEY FEATURES: Colonial-style décor, spacious, high-ceilinged suites with a sitting area, a rain shower and French balcony are features of this ship. There is a sun deck, spa and fitness centre; butler service for Viceroy Suites and in-suite dining and scented baths in the Maharaja Suite.

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for rivers...

The river cruising calendar is dictated not only by commercial reasons but by the tides and flow of rivers throughout the year.

Understanding the mechanics of the river cruise calendar will help agents tap into this lucrative market and present their clients with a topical and relevant selection of river cruises Spring: In March and April the Dutch waterways fall under the river cruise spotlight with the chance to include time exploring the beautiful blooms of the Dutch Bulbfields or to join romantic Paris cruises. On the Rhine, singles cruises run to fulfil commitments.

Summer: May to September brings the best weather for visiting Central Europe, as well as the most suitable river flow and tidal conditions.

The rivers of Germany, including the Rhine, Moselle, Neckar and Main, as well as Portugal’s Douro are popular, although for those who want to stay closer to home, July to October is best for cruises in the Scottish Highlands. Late summer is the peak time for cruising the rivers of France including the Seine, Saone and Rhône. It's also a good time to sail the Russian waterways.

Autumn: In early autumn (September), the weather is generally at its best for cruising The Danube and the Yangtze. Scottish Highland cruising continues to be good too, through to October.

Winter: In November and December the focus is on Christmas markets cruises and festive breaks, particularly on the Rhine but also on the Douro (Portugal). Short Christmas markets cruises are an ideal introduction to river cruising and those on the Douro also offer a chance for pre-Christmas winter sun.

January to March sees attention turn to the Mekong, the Yangtze and the Nile in January. This is a period when unfavourable tidal conditions and water flow on European waterways and less attractive weather makes travelling further afield for a dose of sunshine more compelling than ever.

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river cruising

Generational cruising

across the

generations L

ong gone are the days when a European river cruise was a virtual ‘no go’ for families. The Rhine, Rhone and Saone are just three major rivers attracting multi-generational cruises, and that means bringing the grandparents too, writes Jo Austin Family river cruise itineraries are the same as non-family departures and, according to Tauck, can feature anything from a taste of fondue and a trip ‘up’ the Alps to a scavenger hunt in the Louvre to making marzipan faces in Passau and bicycle rides through forests.

In addition to more fun things for the kids, the normal tours are available for older children and their parents and grandparents to enjoy and parents can work with ship staff to determine what is best for their kids.

All-inclusive options also make river cruising for families an attractive and affordable option as once on board there is absolutely nothing extra to pay. Some shore activities might also be included.

River cruising for families can also be a history lesson when visiting places like Paris, Prague, Heidelberg, Strasbourg, Cologne, Amsterdam, Lyon, Vienna and Budapest – and the memories will likely last a lifetime.

However, where ocean cruising has already succeeded in creating cruises suitable for all generations – there genuinely IS a cruise for everyone out there – river cruising is still battling with an image problem: that the product is aimed at guests of 60+; one that is not very flexible and that is does not necessarily offer the contemporary, exclusive experience that seasoned travellers have learned to expect from other holiday types.

It is true that with all the new river cruise products on the market now there has been a slight growth of the percentage of river cruise customers between 26-55 years old, however, this varies hugely from one provider to the next.

Attracting a younger customer and having enough appeal to clinch multi-generational holidays can only work if the product is right.

A tailor-made approach is not easy on a 180-200 guests capacity vessel, however if done correctly this niche segment of the market can be a very profitable one.

Introducing young customers to this very different type of city break (which river cruising is, essentially, all about), in a very contemporary, fun and flexible environment, means that ultimately these much younger customers will ‘get’ the product and its advantages early and just might come back at various stages of their lives, or even become life-long ambassadors of the brand.

River cruise lines attracting families on board include AMA Waterways, which has entered a partnership with Disney on several dedicated departures.

Uniworld has new dedicated 2016 departures for families titled Family Adventures in Europe while Tauck is committed to families by featuring personalised all-inclusive options for all ages.

A-ROSA introduced in 2015 the concept of children under 15 travelling for free on all its itineraries – and on all departures. In addition, the product’s laid-back, informal and fun features, supported by very high-quality surroundings, managed to create the perfect, relaxed environment for families who want

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to explore the fascinating destinations of Europe. During the main holidays there is even a special Kids Club to keep all those between the ages of four and 15 years entertained.

European Waterways offers six-night all-inclusive family cruises on canals on its fleet of hotel barges in France and the UK. Most popular is the eight-passenger Scottish Highlander which cruises the Caledonian Canal and Loch Ness. Children can help the captain steer while searching for ‘Nessie’ using the barge’s sonic ‘fishfinder’ – leaving mum and dad to relax up on deck as they admire the stunning scenery.

Fully-inclusive barge charters (gobarging. com) start from £19,700 and there is no minimum age for children.

The result of all these efforts has been a rapid increase of multi-generational customers on board. On some cruises families comprise up to one-third of all those onboard, with children and the general 26-55 customer segment increasing to over 40%.  TAUCK - 0800-810-8020 A Castles on the Rhine Family Riverboat Adventure in 2016 starts from £2,445pp for eight days and includes French language lessons, chocolate tasting and even a cooking demonstration! tauck.co.uk 

2017 CRUISES AT 2016 PRICES

Award-winning river cruises

2017 NOW ON SALE To celebrate the launch of our 2017 European river cruise collection, we’re giving your customers the chance to save £1,000 per couple on any one of our 2017 itineraries plus €300 worth of complimentary on-board credit.

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UNFORGETTABLE ITINERARIES

AWARD-WINNING SHIPS

From an 8-day adventure to a 17-day epic, our exciting collection of itineraries features the perfect combination of time on board and ashore.

Cruise the classic Danube, fall in love with the Rhine or unwind on the idyllic Moselle. We’re thrilled to announce that Emerald Waterways are now sailing the Rhône and Douro in 2017.

Our Star-Ships look more like boutique hotels than river cruise vessels. Each one features stylishly appointed suites with ingenious indoor balcony systems, a chic Horizon Bar & Lounge, panoramic Sun Deck for soaking up the endless scenery and a heated pool that transforms into an evening cinema.

IT’S ALL INCLUDED Return flights from a choice of UK airports All on-board meals in Reflections Restaurant Onshore tours, excursions and activities Extra-special EmeraldPLUS experiences All port charges, airport taxes and transfer costs All on-board tips included, saving up to £440 per couple on a 15-day cruise ABTA and ATOL protected

Order your 2017 brochures at TradeGate today!

Reservations: 0808 102 0310 Email: agencysales@emeraldwaterways.com Terms and Conditions: £995 based on 8-day Danube Delights river cruise staying in a Category E Emerald Stateroom, departing on 13th October 2017 and includes a saving of £500 per person. Price is based on two sharing a twin cabin, subject to availability and is correct at time of print.

The €300 on-board credit is per cabin, based on two people sharing. Single guests will receive 50% of the on-board credit.

Offer is available for new bookings only made between 6th February and 30th April 2016.

2017 Departures

Danube Delights 8-day river cruise

OnWAS SAVE NOW board from pp from credit per pp pp cabin £1,495 £500 £995 €300

Jewels of the Rhine £2,095 £500 £1,595 €300 8-day river cruise NEW Secrets of the Douro 8-day river cruise

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NEW Sensations of Southern France 8-day river cruise

£2,095 £500 £1,595 €300

Splendours of Europe 15-day river cruise

£2,495 £500 £1,995 €300

Enchantment of Eastern Europe 10-day river cruise

£2,195 £500 £1,695 €300

2014 Editors’ Picks

Best New River Ship

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Focus on

river cruising

The Rhône – A foodie’s paradise steeped in history –

T

he second-longest river in France, the Rhône winds its way through picturesque valleys of vineyards and stops in Lyon, the gastronomic capital of France. Laura Gelder sums up the highlights Wine The Rhône Valley is home to famous wines including Côtes du Rhône, Pouilly-Fuisse, Beaujolais and Châteauneuf-du-Pape.

Also close by is the wine region of Burgundy with vineyards to visit.

Cuisine The Rhône region is renowned for its cooking schools and culinary creativity, with salade Lyonnais, local andouillette (sausage) and savoury coq au vin notable dishes to try.

The Rhône originates in the Swiss Alps, flows into Lake Geneva and onwards east where it merges with the Saône River near Lyon and continues to the Mediterranean. Near its mouth, at the city of Arles in Provence, the Rhône divides into the Great Rhône and the Little Rhône, forming a delta in the Camargue, a region famous for its wild horses.o

n

The best-known city stop on the Rhône is Lyon, France’s third-largest city and its gastronomic capital. Lyon has also established itself as a cultural hub, with a packed calendar of annual events covering everything from electro music to drama and film.

History buffs will love the cobbled streets of the Old Quarter, the city’s Roman amphitheatre and 19th-century Basilica.

Providing a more modern setting is La Confluence – Europe’s biggest regeneration project. Located in the former docklands, it’s a hub for creatives and tech start-ups and home to the futuristic Musée des Confluences, the city’s answer to the Guggenheim which tells the history of mankind through two million objects.

THE RHONE IS 505 MILES (813 KM ) LONG. IT IS THE ONLY MAJOR RIVER THAT FLOWS DIRECTLY INTO THE MEDITERRANEAN. DID YOU KNOW ?

Wine highlights Macon’s old streets and markets are perfect for strolling but it is the picturesque countryside it lies in which draws the boats. Burgundy vineyards, turreted, fairy-tale-like chateaux and the 15th century Hospices de Beaune (with its wine-making monks) are the main sights.

Chalon-sur-Saone is the gateway to the historic wine capital of Beaune and the much-visited Hotel-Dieu, a 15th-century almshouse and museum admired for its intricate architecture and annual wine festival (in November). Other excursions from here include visits to the close-by medieval villages and the Chateau de Cormatin.

The arts The Rhône region has inspired artists throughout the ages, with the most famous being Van Gogh as well as many French and ex-pat writers like Collette and F. Scott Fitzgerald.

Architecture and history The area is rich in Roman and Gothic history, with impressive cathedrals, fortified towns and ancient cultural institutions open for exploration.

Historical landmarks The medieval city of Avignon was once the Papal capital and the city’s magnificent gothic-period Papal Palace still stands. Other attractions are its many chapels, the half-ruined bridge of Pont Saint Bénézet and museums and galleries including Musée Calvet, which displays a collection of antique sculptures, medieval paintings

by Provençal masters, and French paintings from the 16th to the 19th centuries.

Hilltop Viviers is dominated by its cathedral, which happens to be the smallest in France. The upper town affords great views of the Rhone Valley while other architectural treasures include the Town Hall, in the former bishops’

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palace; the 18th-century Hôtel de Roqueplane, now the seat of the diocese; and the Grande Rue with the elegant mansions of Beaulieu and Tourville, both dating from the 18th century.

Included on the UNESCO World Heritage List for its town centre, Arles offers both Roman heritage and 18th century houses along its narrow streets. There is an impressive Roman amphitheatre along with the Baths of Constantine, which were built in the fourth century AD for the emperor’s personal use.

Van Gogh produced more than 300 paintings during his 15-month stay in Arles, including ‘Sunflowers’ and ‘Starry Night’. 

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river cruising

Luxury

rivers suite

The latest arrival of top-end river cruise ships are tempting passengers on board with butlers, a choice of fine-dining venues and swanky cabin amenities. Jeannine Williamson reports

Pictured opposite from top: the top deck of AmaWaterways’ AmaPrima; the reception of Uniworld’s Maria Theresa; dining area on a Tauck ship; dining on AmaPrima

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Luxury

R

iver vessels are no longer the poor delivered in 2017, and the line also purchased relations of their ocean-going the German-built MS Mozart, which will launch counterparts. As the fastest growing in July as Crystal Mozart following an extensive segment of the travel industry shows no sign of period in dry dock. slowing down, the newest ships are tempting Measuring 75ft across, double the width of passengers on board with a host of high-end standard vessels, it is the largest hotel vessel on features to tempt the most demanding and European rivers and can fit into the larger locks disernable of holidaymakers. of the Danube between Passau and Budapest.

Fourteen high-end vessels are being Each ship will feature butler service for all launched this year alone, and the biggest passengers, two 500sqft suites and a large news comes with the announcement that glass-roofed palm court with a dance floor. luxury ocean cruise line Crystal Cruises is “In response to travellers’ and travel agents’ introducing its own river cruise line. enthusiasm for Crystal River Cruises, we are “We’re familiar with the amazing strides in upping the ante once again, bringing ‘true innovation that have taken place on ocean ships, luxury’ to the river cruise sector with the largest but river vessels are not far behind, particularly guest suites and public spaces, the highest in the luxury sector,” says CLIA UK & Ireland’s crew-to-guest-ratio and Crystal’s award-winning Director Andy Harmer. service,” says President “They are, by their size, and CEO Edie Rodriguez. limited in certain ways “Once the transformation but guests can certainly of Crystal Mozart is “We are familiar with the enjoy all the trappings completed, it will truly amazing strides in of a luxury holiday. We be the crown jewel of have seen changes which innovation that have taken the European rivers.”

UNIWORLD: Uniworld include personalised place on ocean ships, but guests will get a true butler service, exclusive river vessels are not far taste of royal living as excursions, gourmet behind, particularly in the they taste sparkling cuisine, double balconies, luxury sector” cocktails with Princess connecting staterooms Anita von Hohenberg, and family-orientated ANDY HARMER, DIRECTOR, CLIA UK AND IRELAND a descendant of the trips, unheard of when Habsburg dynasty, I first joined the cruise during a visit to industry. And these luxury river ships not only sail the waterways of her Austrian castle, Artsetten Castle. The excursion is included on selected sailings Europe they can also been seen further afield of the European Jewels and Enchanting on the Mekong, the Ganges and the Irrawaddy.”

Danube itineraries this summer.

There is no standard industry rating system The fleet’s vessels are renowned for their for river cruise vessels, and although many individual and opulent interiors, featuring lines give themselves the self-styled status antiques, gold leaf and original artworks. Butlers of ‘five-’ or ‘six-star’ these are, in effect, are trained at the Ivor Spencer Butler School to meaningless. Ultimately it is down to the the standards required by Buckingham Palace. individual preferences of clients, such as For 2016 butler service has been extended to whether they want to opt for a ship that has every suite across the European fleet, and the sleek, contemporary lines or one that resembles marble bathrooms in all staterooms will feature a floating country house hotel, and armed with L’Occitane and Hermes bath and body products. the right know-how agents can help them “From creating one-of-a-kind ships to ensuring decide. As a general rule of thumb, any European every detail, every flavour and every behindvessel carrying less than 190 passengers is the-scenes excursion is delivered to the highest going to provide a more upmarket experience. level of excellence, our main focus is to offer New standards on the river guests an experience like no other,” says Kathryn CRYSTAL: Crystal created more waves with Beadle, Managing Director of Uniworld UK. SCENIC: Scenic also offers butler service to the news that it was bringing its new river all passengers and is expanding its programme programme forward to 2016, a full year earlier into Portugal with the launch of Scenic Azure than originally planned, and will launch five vessels – three more than previously announced. in April. The 48-suite vessel marks the first independently built ship to sail the Douro, and Four new-build 160-passenger ships will be

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river cruising

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Luxury

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excursions on the Delightful Douro itinerary include an evening of fine-dining accompanied by a traditional Fado music in Burmester Cellars, one of Porto’s most historic wine houses.

Scenic Amber, launching in May, is the next generation ‘Space-Ship’ to join Scenic Jasper and Opal on the Rhine, Main and Danube.

The 169-passenger vessel will feature the Table la Rive invitation-only dining option for Diamond Deck passengers. It will spend most of the season sailing on the Gems of the Danube itinerary where a highlight includes a private Viennese concert at Palais Liechtenstein, exclusive to Scenic.

VANTAGE DELUXE TRAVEL: For the first time since the company was established more than 30 years ago, U.S. travel company Vantage Deluxe Travel is launching its cruises in the UK and standout features include single cabins on all vessels, including the new 176-passenger River Voyager debuting this month.

Amruth Sivalenka, the line’s Global Travel agency contact, says “Luxury is in the detail. It’s

something Vantage Travel has perfected over the last three decades. Our dining rooms are set with crisp white table linen, fine crystal, Villeroy & Boch dinnerware and silverware. Guests will find fresh flowers and five-star customer service.”

TAUCK: Another US-based line, Taucklaunches two new Inspiration Class ships, Grace and Joy, in April and June respectively. Carrying just 130 passengers, all staterooms feature plush bedding with 90% down pillows and 400-thread-count linens. Where most lines have one cruise director to tend to the needs

“Luxury is in the detail. It’s something Vantage Travel has perfected over the last three decades. Our dining rooms are set with crisp white table linen, fine crystal and Villeroy & Boch dinnerware. Guests will find fresh flowers and fivestar customer service” JAMRUTH SIVALENKA, VINTAGE DELUXE TRAVEL

of all the guests, Tauck staffs each ship with a cruise director and three additional directors.

Rhine cruises include a Tauck-exclusive private cocktail reception, dinner and musical performance inside Germany’s Ehreshoven Castle, which is normally closed to the public.

Tauck is also going to reconfigure its five Jewel-class ships over the next two years, increasing cabin sizes and reducing passenger capacity from 118 to 98.

AMAWATERWAYS: The 158-passenger sister ships AmaViola and AmaStella join

This page: Poetry II by Avalon; AmaWaterways onboard spa.

Facing page: the accommodation options aboard a Scenic ship.

AmaWaterways fleet next month. Offering Rhine and Danube cruises, they will debut a selection of connecting cabins, providing added convenience for groups and families travelling together and, in common with other vessels, feature Dream Well beds made to the line’s specification and natural Hydro Basics toiletries.

As the only river cruise line that’s a member of the prestigious culinary organisation La Chaine des Rotisseurs, Ama is renowned for its food and wine offering. All passengers enjoy a complimentary meal at the speciality Chef’s Table restaurant and, for food-conscious travellers, the chefs are using more organic local ingredients. In addition the line serves cage-free eggs and crate-free pork and an extended choice of healthy options.

AVALON: Avalon launches its latest suite ships next month, both featuring the line’s trademark sleek interior design. The 104-passenger Avalon Imagery II will sail the Rhine and Avalon Passion, carrying 134 passengers, will cruise the Rhine and Danube. The 300 sq ft Royal Suites include king-size beds, large flat-screen TVs that can be turned to face the bed or seating area and

Amazing Half Price River Cruises *

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Charms of Holland and Belgium 8 days – Amsterdam to Brussels from

£1234pp

Summer departures available

based on 21 July 2016 departure

Call us FREE on 0800 440 2676 or visit us at www.avaloncruises.co.uk We are members of ABTA and our flight inclusive packages are protected by ATOL. Prices are based on category E cabin. *Half price offer is available on selected cruises and dates and is applicable to new bookings only, with limited availability, this offer is on a first come first serve basis. Offers are subject to availability and may also be withdrawn at any time. All prices correct at time of send (18 February 2016).

Luxury

11ft panoramic windows 50% wider than the industry standard. All cabins include Comfort Collection beds with premium memory foam mattress toppers, Egyptian super-combed cotton linens, choice of pillows and L’Occitane products.

AMADEUS: Also debuting in April is Amadeus Silver III, which will sail on the Rhine. Every aspect of the interior design has been handpicked by Martina Luftner from the family-owned Amadeus line, and all cabins have expansive walk-in wardrobes and Rituals toiletries, with walkout balconies in the suites.

Premium local wines are served with dinner and, from this year, lunch too. Other amenities include a gym, massage room and hair salon.

Asian river cruise news SCENIC: In January the 68-passenger Scenic Spirit set sail through Vietnam and Cambodia on the Mekong, marking the line’s entry into the Asian market. With five decks, a pool and openair cinema, it offers a third more room than other ships on the river.

Scenic Aura, sister vessel to Scenic Spirit, carrying 44 passengers, debuts in September on Burma’s Irrawaddy.

river cruising

UNIWORLD: Launched in India last month, the all-suite Ganges Voyager II can carry 56 passengers. Large bathrooms feature rain showers and Molton Brown products. Benefits for guests in the 400sqft Maharaja Suite include in-suite dining and scented baths.

BELMOND: It is 20 years since Belmond’s Burma river cruises first supported local health and education initiatives. The 82-passenger Road to Mandalay vessel includes an onboard spa, hair salon and gym and perks for passengers in the Governor’s Suite include butler service and a complimentary minibar.

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with Princess Anita von Hohenberg, is priced from £5,579pp, cruise only, departing June 5 and 19, July 17 and 31, and August 14. uniworld.com

 SCENIC – 0808 102 0155 The 19-night Mystical Myanmar itinerary, a roundtrip from Yangon with 11 days cruising on Scenic Aura on the Irrawaddy, is priced from £5,995pp, departing December 12 and 25, including flights. scenic.co.uk 

Where to book it  CRYSTAL RIVER CRUISES – 020 7399 7601 A nine-night Danube round-trip cruise from Vienna on Crystal Mozart, with ports of call including Durnstein, Passau, Bratislava and Budapest, is priced from £3,190pp, departing July 13, with flights. crystalrivercruises.co.uk  UNIWORLD – 0844 493 4005

A 14-night European Jewels itinerary on Maria Theresa, sailing from Budapest to Amsterdam and including a cocktail reception

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How to sell

river cruising

79

Myth busting We look at some popular myths around river cruising and how you can not only bust them but inspire a sale too!

R

iver cruising has changed a lot over the last few years and as a result is often mis-perceived by those who aren’t aware of the next-generation ships and increasing list of exciting destinations on offer.

but river cruise ships have caught up.

New generation ships offer larger cabins, more balconies and luxury amenities.

For instance, Crystal Cruises’ new Crystal Mozart has window suites of 203 square feet and two-bedroom Crystal Suites of 860 square THE MYTH : River cruising is very eurofeet. Avalon’s new generation vessels have centric and not for the intrepid traveller. standard suites at 200 square feet, large There are certainly more river cruises in Europe private bathrooms with L’Occitane bath but that doesn’t mean they aren’t intrepid. products and luxurious Comfort Collection The Adventure tour operator G Adventures beds with Egyptian cotton linen.

“On a river cruise it’s all about the now offers cruising in South America, Asia and journey and the amazing sights which France aboard small, intimate riverboats and come to you as you relax in your room. barges for up to 30 passengers who can Accommodation is less important on a river cruise disembark and explore remote towns and because you spend less time onboard. The cities villages by bike or by foot.

“For the intrepid traveller there are the you visit are much more accessible. It’s very easy cruises through Vietnam’s Mekong, to pop off the boat and visit a few bars in the Burma’s Irrawaddy, The Ganges in India town after dinner as you are almost always and the Yangtze in China, not forgetting the docked overnight in the very centre of an Russian waterways too. interesting city.

“Private or group excursions can be arranged and “The best areas of any boat are the public for those who want to be more adventurous there lounges, the restaurants, bars and outside spaces. are plenty of opportunitites to do your own thing This are the places where cruisers will spend and catch the local bus!” most of their time.

Beverley Hyams, Sunidol Travel “Having said that, all cabins have ensuite facilities, large windows and ample space to relax THE MYTH : River cruise accommodation in. Increasingly, river cruise ships offer larger isn’t as good as on an ocean cruise. suites, balconies and relaxation areas.”

This may have been the case at one point Darrell Toakley, Darrell James Travel

THE MYTH: River cruising is for elderly people, I’ll find it boring.

River cruising has lots to offer elderly travellers but it also appeals to the younger market, with a huge array of excursions and increasingly high-tech ships with modern essentials like gyms and wifi on tap. “ River cruising for the UK market started out as an extension of coach touring which is why is often conjures up image of old-fashioned itineraries and primarily geriatric passengers onboard.

“Those days are long gone and over the last five years in particular, ships have improved greatly and the average age of cruisers has dropped from 70-plus to mid-50s. In fact, the top end of the age bracket is likely to be higher in ocean cruising because river cruising, by its nature, requires people to be reasonably mobile.

“Today’s river cruise ships have pools, gyms, bikes and daily excursions. The ships stop in vibrant cities and offer access to a string of exciting urban attractions which appeal to younger people who want to get out and explore.

“Some cruises offer serious hiking and biking holidays where you can cycle up to 70 miles or hike from sunrise to sunset, while other river cruise companies offer special itineraries for families and interconnecting rooms for children.

“I always sum the market up with an image I witnessed recently on a river cruise. On the boat moored opposite me there was a line of zimmer frames on the deck but on our boat was a line of bikes. There is a river cruise to suit everyone.”

James Hill, GoCruise 

Above: Crystal Mozart proves that accommodation is far from basic on a river cruise nowadays. Left: The Yangtze in China is one of many exotic destinations you can see on a river cruise

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A-ROSA River Cruises

0049 381 202 6001 arosa-cruises.com

AmaWaterways

0800 954 0063 amawaterways.co.uk

£760pp, 7-night Danube Classic cruise, cruise-only incl. all meals, drinks, and a 15% spa discount £1,599, 7-night Enchanting Rhine cruise with flights, non-UK transfers, port charges, meals and wine.

APT River Cruises

0800 012 6686 aptouring.co.uk

£945, 8-day Reflections of the Rhine & Main Premium River Cruise

Avalon Waterways

0800 668 1865 avaloncruises.co.uk

Belmond

0845 077 2222 Belmond.com

CMV Signature River Cruises

0844 963 0000 cruiseandmaritime.com

£1,465pp, 8-day Taste of the Danube cruise (incl. UK transfers with personal chauffeur & flights) £990pp, 2-night cruise aboard Belmond Road to Mandalay with domestic flights, transfers, wine with lunch and dinner and excursions £1,259, 7-night Magical Rhine cruise with flights, transfers, selected drinks with lunch & dinner & two half-day excursions

CroisiEurope

020 8328 1281 croisieurope.co.uk

Lead-in price is £269pp for a four-day minicruise in Paris

Crystal Cruises

020 7399 7604 crystalcruises.co.uk

Emerald Waterways

0800 270 7017 emeraldwaterways.co.uk

European Waterways

01753 598555 gobarging.com

Far Horizon Tours & Cruises

01252 714 477 perlrivercruises.com

Fred.\River Cruises

0808 159 5256 fredrivercruises.co.uk

Great Rail Journeys & Rail Discoveries

0800 240 4470 greatrail.com/raildiscoveries.com

Insider Journeys

01865 268 944 insiderjourneys.co.uk

Mekong Prestige River Cruise

0808 168 1458 ewaterways.co.uk

Mekong River Cruises

01252 714 477 perlrivercruises.com

£2,670pp for a 10-night cruise round-trip from Vienna including flights, transfers and all meals and drinks onboard £995pp, 8-day fully-inclusive Danube Delights cruise on Europe’s newest, awardwinning river cruise line £2,350pp, 6-night all-inclusive hotel barge cruises in France, Italy, Holland, Ireland, England, Scotland £1,579pp, 7-night Brahmaputra cruise. Cruiseonly with excursions and international transfers £599pp, 7-day (no-fly) Dutch Towns & Spring Gardens, including return coach transfers, fullboard and entrance to Keukenhof Gardens £975pp 8-day Romantic Rhine including rail, all meals and all-incl drinks on MV A-Rosa Viva £2,395pp, 14-day Saigon to Angkor Mekong journey (8 nights’ cruise, 4 nights’ hotel) & flights from the UK £1,149pp, 8 night cruise only between Saigon and Siem Reap, full board basis including drinks £650pp, 5-night Luang Prabang roundtrip cruise. Cruise-only with excursions and international transfers

Pandaw River Expeditions

020 3287 6113 pandaw.com

£2,620pp, 7-night Chindwin Monywa – Homalin cruise

Riviera Travel

01283 744 370 / 744 390 rivieratravel.co.uk/agents

Saga

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£649pp, 5-day Amsterdam, Volendam & the Dutch Bulbfields cruise

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0800 074 8021 saga.co.uk/rivercruises

£499pp, 4 night Rhineland Festive Markets cruise, full-board with return coach travel

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Sanctuary Retreats

+44 (0)1242 546609 sanctuaryretreats.com

Scenic

0800 566 8777 scenic.co.uk

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Shearings

0843 221 0020 shearings.com/rivercruises

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Tauck River Cruises

0800 810 8020 tauck.co.uk

£714pp, 3-night cruise on Sanctuary Ananda from Bagan to Mandalay in 2016, based on two people £1,495pp, 8-day ultra-all-inclusive Treasures of the Rhine cruise in spacious suite accommodation. £529pp, 4-night Tulips & Windmills fullboard cruise, includes coach transfers and two nights’ £2,041pp, 8 day ‘Holland & Belgium in the Spring’ sailing including flights and a category one cabin

Titan

0800 988 5800 titanagents.co.uk

£999pp, the 8-day Beautiful Rhine cruise, full-board and including VIP transfers

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0844 544 6580 rivercruiseline.co.uk

£799, Danube Discovery Cruise & Stay on the four-star Serenity, full-board. Includes three nights in Budapest 4 star hotel

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Uniworld

0800 988 5166 uniworldrivercruises.co.uk

£1,960pp, 8 day all-inclusive Enchanting Danube cruise from Passau to Budapest

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Viking River Cruises

020 8780 7985 vikingrivercruises.co.uk

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0844 288 2733 wendywutours.co.uk

£1,145pp, 8-day Romantic Danube including travel, transfers, full board, excursions & Wi-Fi £2,490pp, 14-day fully-inclusive Majestic Yangtze tour with flights, meals, accommodation and guided touring

sellingtravel.co.uk

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CHOBE, Botswana

FRENCH Waterways

£795pp, 7-night Classical Danube cruise.

Cruise-only, wine with dinner

DUTCH Waterways

01252 714 477 amadeusrivercruises.co.uk

RHINE, Switzerland to the Netherlands

LEAD-IN CRITERIA

MOSELLE, France, Lux, Germany

Amadeus River Cruises

RESERVATIONS

DOURO, Portugal

CRUISE LINE

DANUBE, Central Europe

Your official guide to river cruising

MAIN DANUBE CANAL, Germany

At a glance

RUSSIAN Waterways

river cruising

PO, Italy

Quick reference

ELBE, Czech Republic to Germany

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All Royal Collection cruises Pre-paid drink packages

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2017 DATES ON SALE 4TH MARCH

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WI-FI INCLUDED

ALL INCLUSIVE OPTION

UK TRANSFERS

AMAZON

MURRAY RIVER, Australia

MISSISSIPPI, USA

YANGTZE, China

NILE, Egypt

IRRAWADDY and/or CHINDWIN, Burma

INDIAN Waterways

MEKONG, Cambodia, Laos and/or Vietnam

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EUROPE’S FINEST RIVER CRUISES

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RHINE, DANUBE, MOSELLE, MAIN, RHÔNE, SEINE OR DOURO

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NEW FOR 2017...

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• 3 brand new five-star all suite ships

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• New five-star ship sailing the Douro • 14 night Cruise the Heart of Europe itinerary now includes Bratislava

THE BLUE DANUBE

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Selected cruises

Selected cruises

Rail - local station only



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8 DAYS FROM £999PP

Selected cruises

BURGUNDY, RIVER RHÔNE & PROVENCE 8 DAYS FROM £1,149PP

RHINE CRUISE TO SWITZERLAND

Selected cruises

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8 DAYS FROM £1,119PP

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CRUISE THE HEART OF EUROPE 14 DAYS FROM £1,499PP

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Coach/ Air/Rail

Selected cruises

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In Europe

Selected cruises

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PLUS MANY MORE!

Selected dates Pre-paid drink packages

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8 DAYS FROM £1,299PP

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To book, call:

01283 744370

or visit: www.rivieratravel.co.uk/agents (Mon - Fri 9am - 7pm Sat & Sun 10am - 4pm)

To subscribe to our agents newsletter email: agencysales@rivieratravel.co.uk

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See our website for full booking terms and conditions.

Part of upgrade

ABTA No. V4744

sellingtravel.co.uk Untitled-1 1

19/02/2016 15:14

82

the final word

the quirky side of travel – Icelandair guides, generation games and stags –

T

o offset the 'embarrassment' of ‘looking like a tourist’, Icelandair is offering passengers local travel guides through its Stopover Buddy service.

On transatlantic stopovers, passengers are being given the opportunity to experience ‘the real Iceland’ with a flight attendant, pilot or even the CEO of Icelandair acting as their guide.

The airline says the scheme is in response to the finding that apparently 72% of UK nationals admit to feeling 'self conscious' when travelling due to them being overly aware they ‘look like a tourist’.

Birkir Hólm Guðnason, CEO at Icelandair, said: “We have worked closely with our colleagues on the Stopover Buddy service, discovering their interests, hobbies and unrivalled local knowledge, which make for some truly unique and personalised experiences.”

The free service, offered on stopovers of 24 hours, is available until April 30.

Icelandair.co.uk

CH-CH-CH-CHANGES The amount of 'first holidays' spent abroad has almost doubled this generation. A survey by Monarch found 19% of over-50s spent their first holiday abroad, compared to 37% of those under

*

What! No wifi?

Secret Campsite has published the ‘escapees handbook’ to help those wanting to go on a camping trip cope without technology.

The 26-page manual offers tips on foraging for food, making wild tea and much much more besides. thesecretcampsite.co.uk

TOP 10…

Overseas destinations Hotels.com has come up with a list of the top 10 overseas destinations visited by UK travellers in 2015. The cities ranked were much the same as in 2014, although Las Vegas dropped down four places, to ninth.

this age. The survey, which polled 2,000 UK adults and children, also found that 100% of Welsh participants spent their very first holiday in Britain!

With travelling overseas self-evidently becoming more popular, it’s hardly surprising that the average age of first-time-on-aplane travellers is just under six. Of the over-50s surveyed, 64% did not take to the skies until they were at least 16.

While for the rest of us younger fliers means increased noise on flights, the travel industry can only smile at a world where children are introduced to the wonders of the globe at an ever-earlier age.

1

New York

2 Paris

4 Dublin

5 Rome

6 Barcelona

7 Dubai

3 Amsterdam

monarch.co.uk

UK OUT ON TOP FOR STAGS AND HENS The UK has three destinations in the top 10 most popular European cities for stag and hen dos, according to Trivago.

London, Edinburgh and Brighton all featured on the list, with each city being praised for its cosmopolitan appeal. London also topped the most expensive per night list, with the average price of a hotel being £179 per night.

Edinburgh and Brighton came in at £124 and £111 per night respectively. Trivago.co.uk

9 Las Vegas

8 Berlin

10 Bangkok

THE APRIL 2016 ISSUE OF SELLING TRAVEL WILL FEATURE: • Florida Road Trips • The Philippines • UAE • Namibia • Malta • USA: Kansas/Oklahoma • My Journey: Anguilla • Premium All-Inclusives • Cruising with CMV CONTACT US sales@bmipublishing.co.uk; editorial@bmipublishing.co.uk PLUS ONLINE Daily Selling Tips • Destination Guides • Photo Galleries • Travel Uni

sellingtravel.co.uk

touchdown please visit our website.

Readers Offers 01293

For up to date arrivals sign /

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holidays@touchdown.co.uk Exclusive offer in the

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Touchdown is a trading style of Travelbrands Ltd. Travelbrands Ltd travel insurance is arranged and administered by Insure & Go Insurance Services Ltd. Travelbrands Ltd is an introducer appointed representive of Insure & Go Insurance Services Ltd for Travel Insurance. Insure & Go Insurance Services Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (Firm Reference Number 309572) with registered address: 10th Floor Maitland House, Warrior Square, Southend-on-Sea, Essex SS1 2JY. Registered in England and Wales (Company no. 04056769).

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Terms & conditions apply. www.touchdown.co.uk

Book with confidence ACCREDITED AGENT

Introducing Sandals Barbados. Distinctively chic. Decidedly luxurious. Unmistakably Sandals. Located on pristine Dover Beach, it’s the only five-star Luxury Included® resort in Barbados that’s designed exclusively for couples. A resort of innovative design

SANDALS BARBADOS

and exceptional style, Sandals Barbados is an idyllic escape of refined hospitality, stylish modern luxuries and over-the-top indulgences for which Sandals is renowned.

FEATURES •

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2015

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON SANDALS BARBADOS Call Agency Sales 020 7590 0210 | Email agencysales@sandals.co.uk | Visit sellingsandals.co.uk *Minimum stay: 3 nights. Government & marriage officiant fees apply. Further terms & conditions and blackout dates apply.