Selling Travel December 2018

SELLING TRAVEL • DECEMBER 2018

A Journey to New Zealand

Eastern Thailand • E-learning • Malawi • Mediterranean Islands • Myanmar • U.S. Virgin Islands • Virginia • What's hot in 2019?

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TRADE PUBLICATION OF THE YEAr 2018 DECEMBER 2018 • sellingtravel.co.uk

YOUR CHANCE TO WIN — SEE BACK COVER!

Get your game face on!

Are your customers looking for the fastest route to New Zealand?

And an incredible experience once they get there, right?

Cue Air New Zealand, Singapore Airlines, and Tourism New Zealand.

It’s the perfect partnership. Singapore Airlines whisk your customers from Heathrow (four times daily) or Manchester (five times weekly), and Air New Zealand take over from Changi through to Auckland. Then it’s down to New Zealand to show people exactly why they wanted to visit in the first place.

We’ve created a brand new game to give you a taste of what your customers can expect on the journey and once they arrive, and there’s also a quick quiz to test your knowledge. And because everything’s more fun with free stuff, we’re also giving you the chance to WIN some amazing prizes.

Play now at hopitnz.co.uk

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DECEMBER 2018 • SELLINGTRAVEL.CO.UK

TRAVEL TRADE PUBLICATION OF THE YEAR 2018

SUNSHINE CALLING

Head to the Med for fun in the sun & experiential travel like never before

how to sell...

Virginia Malawi Myanmar Eastern Thailand U.S. Virgin Islands 2019's hottest destinations and more...

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contents

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this issue

WE TRAVEL FURTHER TO BRING YOU MORE FEATURES 08 What's Hot in 2019: Next year's destinations

46 Med Islands: Sun, fun and much more

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50 Virginia: Southern charm in spades 56 Eastern Thailand: Pattaya and beyond 66 E-Learning: Training for the New Year

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44 54

68

60 56 81

QUICK READS 44 My trip to: Arizona and Mexico

54 How to Sell: Mexican beaches

60 My Journey: Myanmar 62 Visit USA: Member's 64 68 81 82

news Travel Uni: Online training update My trip to: US Virgin Islands Introducing: Malawi Final Word: The quirky side of travel

WHAT'S HOT 2019

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PHOENIX AND MEXICO

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AWARDS 15 The 2018 Results:

VIRGINIA

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Selling Travel Agents Choice Awards

TALKING SHOP 35 News, competitions, incentives, fams, Barbara Charlton

THE REVIEW 71 Top news stories plus hotel reviews

MED ISLANDS

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EASTERN THAILAND

US VIRGIN ISLANDS

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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 sellingtravel.net

sellingtravel.co.uk

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WINNER

TRADE PUBLICATION OF THE YEAR – PRINT & ONLINE

Proudly published by BMI Publishing Ltd 2018 © 2018.

Suffolk House, George St, Croydon, Surrey, CR9 1SR, UK T 020 8649 7233 | F 020 8649 7234 enquiries@bmipublishing.co.uk bmipublishing.co.uk sellingtravel.co.uk Publishers: Steve Thompson & Sally Parker Editorial Director: Steve Hartridge Deputy Editor: Laura Gelder Staff Journalists: Ben Coren & Jessica Pook Contributing Journalist: Jo Austin Group Editor: Andy Hoskins Contributing Editor: Julie Baxter Advertisement Manager: Lisa Merrigan Creative Director: Matt Bonner Lead Designers: Louisa Horton & Monica Notarnicola Designers: Ross Clifford & Zoë Tarrant Production Manager: Clare Hunter 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: Kefalonia. istockphoto.com

welcome I

t is November 24 and I am writing this from Gaylord Opryland, a mega-hotel with almost 3,000 rooms in Nashville, Tennessee.

The festive celebrations are in full swing: thousands of twinkling lights and giant red baubles illuminate the hotel's central atrium, staff are wearing green-and red Rudolf jumpers and tonight’s entertainment is a Christmas concert by a singer who adds a Country & Western twist to some classic carols. The ‘festive season’ may be big business at American hotels, but when it's in full swing as early as this it does rather feel like we are all wishing the rest of the year away.

That said, with enquiries and sales usually lower in December, many agents will already be looking forward to January and peak selling season.

But savvy agents won’t be inactive for this is the month, more than any Steve Hartridge other, that sees agents signing up to online training programmes.

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR With consumer attention elsewhere, agents have more time to swot up on destinations and travel products by tackling online training programmes from providers like Travel Uni. Turn to page 66 to see our feature by Debbie Ward on this very subject.

One agent who has embraced training, and anything else that will boost her knowledge of this industry, is Barbara Charlton, who has written a monthly column for us since our March 2008 issue when it was known as Selling Long Haul.

But for the first time in 25 years, Barbara isn’t looking forward the January rush as she's decided to take a break from travel to pursue other interests, including spending more time with her grandchildren.

This will be her last column for now but you can read her farewell thoughts and enjoy her retro reminiscing on page 38. I would like to wish Barbara, and all our readers, a very happy holiday season!

WITH THIS ISSUE

SUBSCRIBE FOR FREE! sellingtravel.co.uk/subscribe

Visit USA's 2019 Travel Planner

This publication is printed on Revive 100 Media and Revive recycled coated, recycled paper grades that are FSC® Recycled certified and Carbon Balanced.

CBPBMI0918 CBPBMI0918

This bumper supplement is packed with ideas for U.S. holidays ranging from battlefield tours to retail therapy; Native American experiences to fantastic festivals. Get ideas to please beach bums and history lovers alike.

Also inside is our annual at-aglance state-by-state round-up and a directory of all Visit USA members and Visit USAapproved tour operators which you can use for reference throughout the year.

You'll also find our colourful map which you can share with clients when you're planning that epic roadtrip!

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Te Puia, Rotorua

traveltrade.newzealand.com

What is Manaakitanga and how can it help you sell New Zealand?

Manaakitanga is a MÄ ori concept now shared by all New Zealanders.

Loosely translated as hospitality, manaakitanga is the warm way that New Zealanders embrace and welcome visitors, look after them throughout their journey, and invite them into their culture.

To learn more about this concept’s intangible benefits to your clients, Tourism New Zealand have created a series of training videos that invite you on a Journey of Manaakitanga.

Visit traveltrade.newzealand.com to learn more about Manaakitanga.

Apply for a chance at experiencing it for yourself on our 2019 Journey of Manaakitanga famil, visit traveltrade.newzealand.com

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Backing our Travel Agent Partners for 50 years Leading with Innovation, Product Choice, Expertise and Service www.jetsetholidays.co.uk

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www.jetsetflights.co.uk

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the big picture

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Zambia Africa

Lone wolf David Attenborough’s series Dynasty has given us a privileged insight into ďŹ ve animal families but perhaps most familiar is the endangered African wild dog, or painted wolf, which has many similarities to our own canine pals. It’s estimated there are just 6,600 left in the wild and Zambia is one of only six countries with a viable population. Book a South Luangwa National Park safari for a good chance to glimpse these big-eared beauties. zambiatourism.com

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what’s hot in 2019

reasons to be

cheerful The uncertainty surrounding Brexit makes this a difficult period for the travel industry but there are many destinations that are still expecting a fruitful 2019, says Ben Lerwill

Main picture: Zimbabwe is returning to the tourism map following the ousting of former president Robert Mugabe. Early visitors will find superb national parks and great wildlife

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what’s hot in 2019

W

hat does 2019 hold for the travel industry? In any given year predicting the prospects of the travel industry is notoriously tricky – there are too many out-of-leftfield variables – but second-guessing the knock-on effects of the Brexit situation confuses the picture even more particularly so. But in a sector as broad as travel, there are always going to be trends building momentum.

For Tricia Birmingham, Product and Commercial Director of Gold Medal and Travel 2, a rise in independent touring looks likely to unfold.

“More customers are looking for that unique experience,” she says. “They don’t just want to see what everyone else has seen previously, so they’re delving into lesser-known destinations. I think we’ll definitely see an increase in the independent touring market. Social media

now gives people the opportunity to showcase the things that they’re doing.”

She also points to solo travel as a growing market, something backed up

by Aaron Hocking, Regional Director at Intrepid Travel. “We’ve seen a 40% increase over the last five years in bookings from solo travellers, and we’d expect this to continue into 2019,” he explains. “There’s been a significant change of mindset – rather than being something to be embarrassed about, solo travel is now seen as an empowering, transformative experience.”

River cruising is also on an upwards an onwards curve, as Kuoni’s Head of Communications Rachel O’Reilly points out. “It’s the fastest growing sector in the cruise market and we’ve just expanded our offering in response to this trend, adding

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four new river cruise partners.”

Recent research from both Booking.com and Flightgiftcard points to 2019 trends that included more bite-sized travel – a growing number of us now reportedly opting for multiple short breaks as opposed to one fortnight-long holiday – and an increase in ‘conscious travel’, with destination choices based on sustainability, LGBTQ+ rights and other factors.

Gold Medal and Travel 2’s Birmingham mentions another established trend. “We’re seeing an increase in all-inclusive from the family market,” she says. “In the current climate people want to know how much they’re paying for their holiday, and more destinations are embracing all-inclusives.”

Here’s our list of destinations that have reasons to be cheerful in 2019.

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WINNER

Best Corporate Social Responsibility Programme

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WINNER

Business Airline of the Year

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JAMES HEREMAIA

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what’s hot in 2019

Japan

Southern England

The attention of the sporting world will focus on Japan when the Rugby World Cup kicks off in September. The six-week tournament is being held across 12 venues nationwide (and Tokyo, remember, also hosts the Olympics in 2020).

The country was named the world’s second cheapest long-haul destination by the Post Office Holiday Money Report 2018, and British Airways is resuming direct flights between Heathrow and Osaka in March. Services will depart four times weekly. In addition, many of the those in the UK travel industry will head to the country in October, when the ABTA Travel Convention rolls into Tokyo.

When the Great West Way was launched at World Travel Market in November, it shone a spotlight on a part of the country that hadn’t previously been marketed collectively. Described as “a bookable, multi-modal touring route from London to Bristol”, the major new initiative encompasses attractions as diverse as Stonehenge, Windsor Castle and Bath, offering a number of recommended itineraries and taking in a 500-mile network of road, rail, river, canal and other paths. It’s being funded by the government’s Discover England Fund, and is likely to spark fresh interest in exploring the region.

Sell it: Inside Japan Tours (insidejapantours.com)

Top tip: Agents and tour operators can head to greatwestway.co.uk/TravelTrade to find more

offers a 13-day Classic Japan tour taking in Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka and elsewhere, from £3,575pp.

information on the project, and how to sell it.

New Zealand

Malta

A survey of 1,500 high-end UK travellers by the Conde Nast Traveller Luxury Travel Fair saw New Zealand top the list of Brits’ dream destinations for the year ahead.

This coincides with 2019 marking the 250th anniversary of Captain Cook’s arrival in the destination (he spent six months charting the country before sailing to Australia). Various events are planned for October and November. The autumn 2018 trip to New Zealand by royals Harry and Meghan, who visited Wellington, Auckland and Rotorua, is also likely to spur interest.

Malta’s perennial popularity will be strengthened in April when Ryanair introduces two new routes to the country, from Cardiff and Exeter. Ryanair and Air Malta announced a partnership in August 2018, allowing passengers to book Air Malta flights through the Ryanair website.

In addition, Jet2holidays will increasing seats to Malta by 25% for the Winter 2019/2020 season. On a different note, Malta will be promoting its suitability for families by running Nickelodeon-branded, tourist-focused events over the Easter school holidays in April.

Sell it: Silver Fern Holidays (silverfernholidays.com) has an epic 29-day Discover Captain Cook’s New Zealand itinerary, covering both islands, from £4,299pp.

Sell it: Cox & Kings (coxandkings.co.uk) has four-day, three-night short breaks to Malta priced from £345pp, with a range of hotels available.

Clockwise, from top left: Japan is in the spotlight; Maori culture is a constant draw for New Zealand; Castle Combe, Wiltshire is on the newly launched Great West Way; Air lift to Valletta will increase in 2019; New Zealand’s Coromandel is a must for nature lovers

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Macao Experience

Only 40 miles from Hong Kong, Macao’s unique PortugueseChinese heritage, vibrant nightlife and legendary food scene make it a fascinating two or three-night add-on to any Far East itinerary or trip Down Under. visitmacao.co.uk Your 2019 Macao Guide is out now! Order copies at macao@humewhitehead.co.uk

what’s hot in 2019

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ROBERTO CLEMENTE

Tunisia

Top tip: The country’s climate makes it an appealing place to visit in spring or autumn, when temperatures hover around the mid-20s.

Robert Mugabe is no more and Zimbabwe is looking towards tourism. For travellers, however, not only is the destination somewhere widely seen as safe and friendly, it also offers superb national parks, fabulous wilfdlife, some UNESCOlisted cultural attractions and Victoria Falls.

Tourists can experience somewhere which, for the time being, remains below the mainstream radar.

Sell it: Rainbow Tours’ (rainbowtours.co.uk) 12day Magical Zimbabwe Safari includes Hwange National Park and Batoka Gorge. From £3,495pp.

Pittsburgh, USA

Argentina has been investing heavily in the tourism sector in recent years and it is paying off. The country is hoping to attract nine million international tourists by 2020 – from seven million in 2017 – and hotel capacity and flight connectivity are both on the increase.

Norwegian now flies between London and vibrant Buenos Aires seven times a week and recently announced the addition of six domestic Argentinian routes.

And 2019 will also see the launch of a new Air Europa flight between Madrid and UNESCO-listed Iguazú Falls.

British Airways is introducing a fourtimes weekly service from Heathrow to Pittsburgh in April, around eight hours’ flying time from the UK. The city will appeal to U.S. loving clients in search of somewhere that’s different and ‘authentic’.

Founded on the steel industry it went through some tough times when the factories shut down but has re-emerged as one of the most liveable cities in the U.S. Clients should check out the Golden Triangle, and look into the city’s food tours, fine restaurants, art galleries, craft breweries, and major league baseball in the form of the Pittsburgh Pirates.

The city also has an association with legendary architect Frank Lloyd-Wright, whose Falling Water house is probably his best known design.

Sell it: Wendy Wu Tours (wendywutours.co.uk) offers a 15-day Argentina Adventure Tour, covering Buenos Aires, Iguazu and many more country highlights. The tour is priced from £4,490pp.

Top tip: Pop art icon Andy Warhol was born in Pittsburgh, and the city’s excellent Andy Warhol Museum is the largest in North America to be dedicated to a single artist. 

Argentina

s t k

Zimbabwe

DAVE DICELLO

It’s been three-and-a-half years since the terror attack in Sousse in June 2015 and things are finally looking up for the country’s tourism industry. Around 100,000 Brits chose to visit Tunisia in the first nine months of 2018, a figure that is expected to edge towards 120,000 by the year’s end – far exceeding the North African country’s target of 85,000.

Thomas Cook and TUI both reintroduced packages to the destination in 2018 and have expanded their capacity for 2019, with the 17 weekly flights between the UK and Tunisia expected to more than double to 38 in the coming year.

Clockwise, from left: Date farmers in El Goula, Tunisia; Pittsburgh’s Sixth Street bridge is named after Roberto Clemente, a former Pittsburgh Pirate baseball star; Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe; Argentina has set ambitious tourist targets; Pittsburgh is acclaimed as one of the most liveable cities in the U.S.

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Thank you for taking us to new heights.

Your votes have made us the Best Overseas Airport.

It’s your warm presence and patronage that motivate us to continue to deliver our very best. Thank you for giving us yet another reason to smile every day.

Rethink travel at changiairport.com

Departure Hall Terminal 3

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Meet the 2018 winners Contents • 17 Winners list • 19 Winners gallery • 30 Commended gallery • 32 Agent prize winners

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K O EEN R & 018 BO T W B E R 2 M E B E VE M B O N E 5 D EC 31

EARN LOVE2SHOP VOUCHERS IN TIME FOR CHRISTMAS Five-star MS Jane Austen

Earn £10 for every confirmed river cruise booking departing April or May 2019, or £25 on every confirmed booking for April or May departures on Burgundy, the River Rhône & Provence or The Douro, Porto & Salamanca.

Email your booking references to agencysales@rivieratravel.co.uk

THE MORE BOOKINGS YOU MAKE, THE MORE VOUCHERS YOU’LL RECEIVE BURGUNDY, THE RIVER RHÔNE & PROVENCE

Take in the beautiful countryside of Provence

THE DOURO, PORTO & SALAMANCA

8 days from £1,299PP

8 days from £1,399PP

From the lush green vineyards of Burgundy to the sun-kissed hills of Provence and the wild ruggedness of the Ardèche gorges to the medieval allure of Avignon – on this truly enthralling cruise every day is full of fascination.

Explore what is possibly Europe’s most undiscovered river through the stunning Douro Valley, and discover charming villages, age-old traditions and wonderful cuisine.

Departures from April to October 2019

Departures from April to November 2019

Four-day Lisbon Extension on selected dates – from £449PP

SO MUCH IS INCLUDED

Uncover Porto’s many fascinating gems

See the stunning Douro Valley

• Fascinating tours and excursions with expert guides • The services of our experienced cruise director and tour manager • Return flights or Eurostar from London St Pancras. Flights from UK airports and UK rail connections available (supplements may apply) • Spacious and beautifully appointed suites or cabins with hotel-style beds and river views • All meals on board including welcome cocktails, a welcome dinner and the Captain’s Dinner • We don’t discount so you don’t have to • Dedicated sales team available for support

CONTACT OUR AGENCY SALES TEAM: Call for support: 01283 744307 | email: agencysales@rivieratravel.co.uk

CALL RESERVATIONS 7 DAYS A WEEK: Call to book: 01283 744370 | Book online: www.rivieratravel.co.uk/agents Vouchers for booking references submitted by Friday 14th December will be posted before Christmas. Any remaining vouchers will be posted first week of January 2019. Prices are based on two people sharing and are correct at time of print. Single supplements may apply. Holidays are operated by and subject to booking conditions of Riviera Travel, ABTA V4744 ATOL 3430 protected. Subject to availability. Additional entrance costs may apply. Images used in conjunction with Riviera Travel. For further information please write to Riviera Travel, New Manor, 328 Wetmore Road, Burton upon Trent, Staffs, DE14 1SP.

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Darren

Tamzin

Mia

Paul

Emma

YOUR FRIENDLY AGENCY SALES TEAM ABTA No. V4744

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k

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2018 Winners Airlines & Airports Airline to the Far East Cathay Pacific Commended – ANA Airline to North America Delta Air Lines Airline to Latin America & the Caribbean British Airways Airline to the Middle East Qatar Airways Commended – Emirates Airline to India & the Indian Ocean Etihad Airways Commended – Air Mauritius Airline to Europe & North Africa Jet2 Airline to Africa Ethiopian Airlines Commended – South African Airways Airline to Australasia & the Pacific Air New Zealand Overseas Regional Airline Virgin Australia Commended – Bangkok Airways Overseas Airport Singapore Changi UK Airport Manchester Airport

Destinations City Break Tel Aviv Commended – Abu Dhabi Destination for Beach Mauritius Commended – Philippines Destination for Wildlife & Nature South Africa Destination for Soft Adventure Canada Commended – New Zealand

Destination for Spa & Wellness Bali Commended – Malta Destination for Weddings & Honeymoons Barbados Commended – Mauritius

Tour Operators Tour Operator to Africa African Pride Tour Operator to Australasia & the Far East Premier Holidays Tour Operator to Europe & North Africa Jet2 Holidays Commended – Titan Travel Tour Operator to India & the Indian Ocean Travelpack Tour Operator to Latin America & the Caribbean Journey Latin America Commended – Latin Routes Tour Operator to the Middle East If Only Commended – Travel 2 Tour Operator to North America Funway Holidays Commended – North America Travel Service For Short Haul Escorted Tours Newmarket Holidays For Long Haul Escorted Tours Titan Travel For Solo Travellers G Adventures Commended – Leger Holidays

Cruising

Hotels Hotel/Group in Africa One & Only Cape Town Hotel/Group in Australasia & Far East Dusit Hotels & Resorts Hotel/Group in Europe & North Africa Movenpick Hotels & Resorts Commended – nh Hotel Group Hotel/Group in North America Hyatt Hotels & Resorts Hotel/Group in Latin America & the Caribbean AM Resorts Hotel/Group in India & the Indian Ocean Beachcomber Hotel/Group in the Middle East JA Jebel Ali Beach Hotel Commended – Atlantis Hotel/Group All-Inclusive Hard Rock Hotels All Inclusive Collection

Best of the Rest Bed Bank Bookabed Ticket Provider Super Break Commended – Attraction World Rail Great Rail Journeys Car Hire Avis Budget Group UK Holidays Shearings Theme Parks Universal Parks and Resorts

Ocean Cruising Crystal Cruises River Cruising Riviera Travel Commended – Viking Cruises

Travel Uni Training Programme Thailand Favourite Roadshow Caribbean Tourism Organization Commended – Visit USA

M

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sellingtravel.co.uk

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Crystal_SellingTravel_Winners_Ad_Oct18.qxp_Crystal_OC_SellingTravel_Ad_May18 23/10/2018 16:32 Page 1

THANK YOU!

T H A N K YOU FOR VOT IN G CRYSTA L C RUISE S AS YOUR BEST F O R O CE A N C RUISING IN THE 2 018 AG E NTS C HOIC E AWARDS. We are delighted to be your winner and your support is very much appreciated.

Stay tuned in 2019 for even more of what you love from the World’s Best.

Mick Dupont

Head of Sales Tel: 07921 949469 mick@cruiseportfolio.co.uk

Natalie Read

Regional Sales Manager South Tel: 07896 971316 natalieread@cruiseportfolio.co.uk

Jon Schofield

CRYSTAL CRUISES – VOTED WORLD’S BEST MORE THAN ANY OTHER CRUISE LINE, HOTEL OR RESORT IN HISTORY

Regional Sales Manager North & Scotland Tel: 07841 921533 jon@cruiseportfolio.co.uk

Nan Short

Representative Northern Ireland & Eire Tel: 02890 642252 nanshort@btopenworld.com

Megan Saunders

Trade Sales Support Executive Tel: 020 7399 7602 megan@cruiseportfolio.co.uk

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A BOOKING, PLEASE CALL:

020 7399 7601

www.crystalcruises.co.uk

ABTA No.V8548

©2018 Crystal Cruises, LLC. Ships’ registry: The Bahamas.

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news from the stars

Hotel/Group in Latin America & the Caribbean - AM RESORTS

Destination for Spa & Wellness - BALI

Pictured from left: Keiron Sellens, Agnes Czekanska, Alvaro Lopez De Haro and Lauren Yems. Lauren said: “A big thank you to everyone who took their time to vote for us, we appreciate all your support and are delighted to have received this award! As 2019 is on the horizon, we have lots of exciting news to come and we hope to have your continued support throughout the year and beyond.”

Deputy Minister for Tourism Marketing Nia Niscaya said: "This is the third year that Bali has been recognised as a world-class spa and wellness destination. We have skilled local therapists, use local ingredients to produce our spa products and most of our top hotels offer world-class spa facilities. Our treatments for expecting mothers prove very popular and also help cure baby blues. It's a great honour to be recognised for something that's essential to our heritage."

Hotel/Group in India & the Indian Ocean - BEACHCOMBER Pictured from left: Francois Venin, Samantha Ford and Nicolas Staub.

Samantha said: "The trade makes a big impact towards Beachcomber bookings so we are very thankful that they thought us worthy of this award. We're on schedule to have a positive January with a lot of late sales. Our four-star Les Salines Beachcomber Resort and Spa, with 338 rooms and 56 family suites, is due to open at Black River, Mauritius in 2020."

Bed Bank - BOOKABED Pictured are Adam Mcknight and Beverleigh Fly. Adam said: "Bookabed are delighted to receive this award! Thank you to all of our agents that voted for us. Bookabed are 100% trade-only and rely on the support of our fantastic agents. We ran our first ever fam trips from the UK this year, giving thanks to agents that continue to support us." Bev added: "It's been an excellent year and to win this award is fantastic recognition of the support we try to show our agents, thank you!"

sellingtravel.co.uk

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Thank you for your votes!

We are delighted to have won Best Short-Haul Escorted Tours!

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14 Gold ★ 9 Silver ★ 3 Bronze

Visit www.newmarketholidays.co.uk Reservations 0330 160 7999

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Commended, Destination for a City Break: “We’re honoured to be commended - thanks to everyone for their votes! Abu Dhabi is a fantastic city break option with great accessibility, a wealth of cultural experiences and beaches on your doorstep.”

JANE DAWKINS, DCT ABU DHABI

Airline to Latin America & the Caribbean - BRITISH AIRWAYS Pictured are Benedict Montgomery and Rebecca Donaldson. Rebecca said: "Thank you to Selling Travel's readers for their continued support.

Our presence in Latin America and the Caribbean has really grown over the last few years in conjunction with our partner Iberia and it's great to be appreciated."

Destination for Soft Adventure - CANADA Adam Hanmer said: “Canada prides itself on its great adventure experiences whatever the season. Being recognised by the readers of Selling Travel as a leader in soft adventure year-round is a real honour so thank you! Canada continually strives to evolve new experiences for travellers to enjoy and we hope agents will investigate the indigenous, culinary and winter adventures that tour operators are continually adding to their brochures alongside many other adventure options.“

Airline to the Far East - CATHAY PACIFIC Ian Wilkinson said: "Thank you for voting Cathay Pacific! We are proud once more to have been chosen as Best Airline to the Far East. With an unrivalled 53 weekly non-stop flights to Hong Kong from Heathrow, Gatwick, Manchester and Dublin, Cathay Pacific brings passengers even closer to their destination with a 50-minute minimum connection time.

You can ensure greater choice and flexibility for your client with our extensive frequency out of the UK and Ireland."

Commended, Airline to India and the Indian Ocean: “It's a great achievement for us as a smaller independent carrier and shows how happy our customers are with our friendly Mauritian service direct to this paradise Island. Watch out for new aircraft next year on the London route!” IAN NASH, AIR MAURITIUS

Ocean Cruising - CRYSTAL CRUISES Elaine Gillard said: "We are once again delighted to win the Ocean Cruising category and cannot thank our agent partners enough for their ongoing support to Crystal Cruises here in the UK. Thank you!"

sellingtravel.co.uk

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Commended, Overseas Regional Airline: “On behalf of Bangkok Airways I would like to thank the UK trade for this award and for their continued support.”

ANDREW HOSKINS, BANGKOK AIWAYS

Favourite Roadshow - CARIBBEAN TOURISM ORGANIZATION Pictured from left: Florian Devillers, Carol Hay and Hugh Riley. Carol said: "Our experienced team work hard with agents across the UK to create our Caribbean trade shows and we feel this face-to-face personal touch incentivises agents to learn more about the Caribbean. We have just launched our 'The Rhythm Never Stops' campaign, a digital campaign across social media designed to entice travellers to experience the Caribbean's natural beauty, diverse culture and hidden treasures."

Hotel/Group in Australasia & Far East - DUSIT HOTELS & RESORTS Commended, Airline to the Far East: “We have raised our leisure profile in the last few years and expect a surge in people flying to Japan for the 2019 Rugby World Cup and around 40 million for the 2020 Olympics.” Julie Murphy, ANA

Anita Skibiel said: "Dusit Hotels and Resorts has just opened a second property in Krabi, Thailand. DusitD2 Ao Nang is located 25 km from Krabi International Airport. We also expect to open ten more properties over the next year across Asia and the Middle East, with the aim to double the number of rooms by 2021. Hotels will be located in Bahrain, Bangladesh, Bhutan, China, the Philippines, Qatar, Singapore and Vietnam."

Thank you for voting us Best Airline to the Far East 2018 53 weekly non-stop flights from Heathrow, Gatwick, Manchester and Dublin to Hong Kong.

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Airline to North America - DELTA AIR LINES

Airline to Africa - ETHIOPIAN AIRLINES

Nadia Clinton said: "We are delighted to be able to connect with the trade and be nominated as the Best Airline to North America. We have more plans for expansion in 2019, including a new daily route from Edinburgh to Boston which is due to start in the summer. Also, Delta's Dublin service will operate on larger 767-300ER aircraft in 2019 due to increased demand."

DHR-Selling-Travel-UK-146x210mm-02-outline.pdf

1

Michael Yohannes and Mohammed Ali. Michael said: "I'm very happy and excited to receive this award as it's voted for by the front line staff who actually sell flights. We have always backed the trade and will continue to do so. Ethiopian Airlines has more capacity than ever, with ten flights a week from Heathrow and now four-times-weekly flights from Manchester. Our dedicated trade team is here to help!"

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1:32 PM

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Commended, Airline to the Middle East: “We're delighted to receive this accolade as it's voted for by the readers of Selling Travel. It's been an exciting year, with our new Stansted-Dubai and Edinburgh-Dubai routes launched, and we really value the support from our trade partners.” JON SHEPPARD, EMIRATES

Airline to India & the Indian Ocean - ETIHAD AIRWAYS Helen Argent (pictured with Steve Hartridge, Editor of Selling Travel) said: "We are delighted to have won this award which means a lot, particularly as it’s recognition from agents, our most valued partners.

We really appreciate their continued support and hope to continue our close partnership into 2019."

Hotel/Group All-Inclusive - HARD ROCK HOTELS ALL INCLUSIVE COLLECTION Pictured from left: Ashleah Sanchez, Graham Brooks and Megan Hilary.

Graham said: "We attended all four roadshows and were thrilled with the standard of agents and how enthusiastic they were towards the Hard Rock Hotel brand. We are looking forward to the opening of our new property in Los Cabos, Mexico and have started taking bookings for its debut in May 2019. The 639-room resort will feature five swim-up bars, water slides, a Rock Spa and kids club. Also in 2019, our Riviera Maya property will open its own water park."

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Tour Operator for Solo Travellers G ADVENTURES Pictured from left: Rachel Coffey, Casey Mead, Brian Young, Bruce Poon Tip, Leah Whitfield, Ant Stone and Amanda Sommer. Bruce said: "Giving solo travellers the security of a group with the freedom of independent travel is at the heart of where we started but we rarely get recognised for being a leader in solo travel. I’m a big advocate of people leaving their comfort zone when they travel and this often means travelling alone!"

Hotel/Group in North America - HYATT HOTELS & RESORTS Nikita Kapustkin said: "We are honored that agents recognise our hotels in North America, where our roots are and where we have the strongest distribution. We are committed to the UK trade and promise to continue offering great hotels in exciting destinations. Hyatt has just acquired Two Roads Hospitality, an international hotel lifestyle management company, sharing a commitment to genuine care and delivering distinctive experiences to discerning travellers.”

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Tour Operator to the Middle East - IF ONLY

Hotel/Group in the Middle East - JA JEBEL ALI BEACH HOTEL

Pictured: Susan Greenhorn and Iain Raeper. Ian said: "We have moved our head offices into a larger premises to accommodate our plans to expand. We are now situated in Glasgow city centre and have 40 new staff members who joined us this year. We have seen an increase in sales since adding the USA and the Caribbean to our portfolio and are continuing to enjoy working with the trade as a purely B2B company. It means so much to be recognised for a second year."

Pictured are Gill Shannon and Thomas Grundner. Gill said: "JA Resorts & Hotels would like to thank you for voting for us and for your support in 2018. JA The Resort featuring JA Beach Hotel and JA Palm Tree Court, Dubai’s only truly all-inclusive resort, will see a new addition to our portfolio in September 2019 with the opening of JA Lake View Hotel, extending more than 35 experiences for our guests. We look forward to welcoming your clients to experience our heartfelt hospitality in the near future."

Tour Operator to Latin America & the Caribbean - JOURNEY LATIN AMERICA Stuart Whittington said: "We're delighted to be given this award for the third year in a row! A huge thanks to all our trade partners for putting their trust in us. We really enjoy working with all of you so don't hesitate to get in touch with any queries. Journey Latin America is a true specialist on destinations ranging from Mexico to Antarctica and Cuba too."

Airline to Europe & North Africa - JET2 Tour Operator to Europe & North Africa - JET2 HOLIDAYS Pictured: Alan Cross

Commended, Tour Operator for Solo Travellers: “The singles market is fast growing for Leger and 2019 promises new tours, more experiential travel along with a new Signature Collection featuring luxury coach tours.”

ASHLEY DELLOW, LEGER HOLIDAYS

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Commended, Hotel/Group in Europe & North Africa: “Our first London property will open next year in trendy Shoreditch - it's part of our funky lifestyle brand - nhow.”

OSVALDO BADIA, NH HOTEL GROUP,

Destination for Beach - Mauritius Raj V. Bhujohory said: "Air Mauritius has revamped its seats, inflight entertainment and onboard wifi. We also anticipate a new A350 Neo aircraft in April 2019. We'd like to thank the trade for voting for Air Mauritius, we only have a small UK team so it's great to be recognised and means we are representing agents well. Watch this space for new product and the addition of some great luxurious destinations in 2019."

Hotel/Group in Europe & North Africa - Movenpick Hotels & Resorts Pictured from left: Anthony Vale, Cynthia Turner and Julian Bonafous.

Cynthia said: "We are thrilled to receive this award and grateful to have been recognised by our loyal agents. We have a new hotel in the Maldives which opened on November 1. The Mӧvenpick Resort Kuredhivaru Maldives is situated on a private island in the Noonu Atoll and features 72 overwater pool villas and 30 beach pool suites, each with their own private plunge pool."

For Short Haul Escorted Tours - Newmarket Holidays Pictured: Richard Forde and David Sharman. Richard said: "We are delighted to recieve this award as it shows we continue to have the dedicated support from agents as our business grows. We are focusing on the growth of our European programme for 2019 with more itineraries in Italy. We've re-introduced our regional charter programme so are now flying to Italy from Inverness, Newquay, Norwich and 26 other airports, giving agents a chance to sell holidays departing from their local area."

Commended, Tour Operator to the Middle East: “For over 35 years, Travel 2 has been committed to being the experts that agents can trust in building their clients’ dream holidays so winning an award chosen by agents is a massive honour.”

LEYNA MCKENZIE, TRAVEL2

River Cruising - Riviera Travel Paul Mellon said: "Riviera Travel are very proud to have won this award and a huge thank you to our trade partners for voting for us. We have two new ships joining the fleet in 2019 - the MS William Wordsworth and the MS George Eliot. In addition, we are cruising in Russia for the first time and have added a Nile programme back into our cruise portfolio brochure."

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Commended, River Cruising: “Our Viking Jupiter ship will make its debut in February 2019 and will be the sixth ocean cruising ship in the fleet. We are also launching an Alaska itinerary in May 2019 and a new river cruise to the Nile.”

BRYONY GAMMON, VIKING CRUISES

Tour Operator for UK Holidays - SHEARINGS Matthew Herbert said: "We're delighted! We’ve continued to support agents and give more choice for those holidaying in the UK (and further afield). This includes our partnership with Hearst Magazines to develop Country Living Hotels in Bath and Harrogate. For 2019, we’ve increased airinclusive tours, shows, festivals, special interest and event breaks."

Destination for City Break - TEL AVIV Amir Halevi said: "A new direct El Al Israel Airlines flight will begin operating from Manchester to Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion International Airport in 2019. The route is scheduled to take off on May 26, 2019, the service operating three times a week. We are also continuing with our ‘Two Cities, One Break’ campaign to highlight Tel Aviv and Jerusalem as a year-round city break for the UK market. Ben Gurion is approximately equal distance between Tel Aviv and Jerusalem."

Travel Uni Training Programme - THAILAND

Ticket Provider - SUPER BREAK Donna Smithson said: "We’ve introduced a great agent discount scheme this year to show our appreciation and 2019 will see us continuing with our popular London fam trips plus more exciting incentives and promotions. As always, we’ll be providing amazing deals via email and Facebook to help drive those all-important sales. We are absolutely delighted to receive this award. It’s a special one to us as it’s voted for purely by agents and they are at the heart of everything we do. Thank you to everyone who voted for us!"

Emma Arnott said: "Since we've been nominated our programme has been rebranded as Thailand Expert and it's even better! There are lots of new features such as agent offers on things like hotels and flights and a 'what's new' section to keep agents up to date on all things Thailand. We also host webinars which you can rewatch any time - watch our first on Mae Hong Son Province and look out for more. And make sure you sign up to the 2019 Amazing Thailand Roadshow."

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Tour Operator to India & the Indian Ocean - TRAVELPACK Pictured from left: Heena Bhudia, Vishal Patel and Sharel D'sa. Heena said: "Thank you to all the agents that voted for us to win for a second time. We have a really good team who are passionate about creating great packages. We also have new departures for India in 2019 so watch

Theme Parks - UNIVERSAL PARKS AND RESORTS Alison Montague said: "We are really chuffed to receive this award!

We've invested a lot in the travel agent community so it's good to see that it's been appreciated. It's also perfect timing as we've about to launch a new online forum for our trade partners. From the New Year agents will have one place they can access news, training modules, selling tips and insights, 24/7. However, it won't replace us investing real time in agents by being on the road for face-to-face meetings!"

Tour Operator for Long Haul Escorted Tours - TITAN TRAVEL Andy Squirrell said: "A huge thank you to everyone who took the time to vote for us. Our trade growth continues year-after-year and the launch of our new agents bookable website titanagents.co.uk supports our commitment to you. Our focus is always on making sure your customers have a touring experience full of perfect moments, so they come back to you time and time again. Thank you for giving us a very special 40th anniversary year."

Commended, Favourite Roadshow: “This is the second year running Visit USA have been recognised in these awards.

Look out for our 2019 roadshow across the UK.” PAMELA NEWMAN, VISIT USA

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Overseas Regional Airline - VIRGIN AUSTRALIA Pictured is Vito Anzelmi and Michael Fletcher. Michael said: "In the UK market 60% of our business comes from the trade so we are delighted to be recognised with this award. We're strengthening international and domestic markets with new services between Australia and Hong Kong which link us with Virgin Atlantic and allow agents to sell Australia under the Virgin banner. New routes include Sydney to Wellington, Melbourne to Queenstown and Newcastle to Auckland."

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Commended for 2018

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

DESTINATION FOR CITY BREAK: ABU DHABI - Jane Dawkins AIRLINE TO INDIA & THE INDIAN OCEAN: AIR MAURITIUS - Ruby Wake and Ian Nash 3 AIRLINE TO THE FAR EAST: ANA - Julie Murphy and Yoshimi Ogura 4 OVERSEAS REGIONAL AIRLINE: BANGKOK AIRWAYS - Konthi Asavaphanlert and Andrew Hoskins 5 AIRLINE TO THE MIDDLE EAST: EMIRATES - Jon Sheppard 6 TOUR OPERATOR FOR SOLO TRAVELLERS: LEGER HOLIDAYS - Ashley Dellow 7 HOTEL/GROUP IN EUROPE & NORTH AFRICA: NH HOTEL GROUP - Osvaldo Badia 8 TOUR OPERATOR TO THE MIDDLE EAST: TRAVEL2 - Leyna McKenzie 9 RIVER CRUISING: VIKING - Bryony Gammon 10 FAVOURITE ROADSHOW: VISIT USA - Pamela Newman 1 2

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Untitled 18-11-1

THANK YOU! SELLING TRAVEL • AGENTS CHOICE

AWARDS WINNERS 2018

AIRLINE

TO EUROPE & NORTH AFRICA

JET2.COM

TOUR OPERATOR

TO EUROPE & NORTH AFRICA

JET2HOLIDAYS

THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONTINUED SUPPORT

*Terms and conditions apply. Please see your local travel agent for full details.

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11/27/18 06:44 PM 23/11/2018 13:08 11:48

33 22

Prize giveaway Thanks for voting in our Selling Travel Agents Choice Awards and congratulations to all our worthy winners. Here's what you won for taking part...

Two-night stay at Point A hotel, London

Point A gave away a two-night break for two, including breakfast at their trendy London Shoreditch property, won by Zoe Martini, Travel Counsellor. pointahotels.com

LEGOLAND Florida family tickets Clare Ashton from Kuoni Travel won tickets for all the family to enjoy the LEGOLAND theme park in Florida with more than 50 rides, shows and attractions. legoland.com

Two-night stay at South Point Suites, London Hayley John-Charle from Not Just Travel won a twonight stay in one of South Point's London Bridge apartment-style suites for two people, including breakfast. southpointsuites.com

Footbridge Handbooks

Temple Spa products

A collection of top-to-toe antiaging skin and spa favourites were sent to Emily Benbow, Not Just Travel and Yvonne Holmes, Classic Travel.

A selection of guidebooks including: South American Handbook, European City Breaks, Diving the World, Travel Photography and Cape Town & the Garden Route were awarded to Lorraine Hale, Thorntons Travel and Danny Mowatt, Flight Centre.

templespa.com

footprinttravelguides.com

sellingtravel.co.uk

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11/27/18 03:22 PM

for voting

Everyone at Titan is delighted to have been awarded the Agents Choice Award for Long Haul Escorted Touring. A big thank you to everyone who took the time to vote for us - here’s to another great year.

Let’s celebrate!

New bookable website live now

www.titanagents.co.uk

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34

in pictures

Win󰇹󰇪󰈦 m󰈜󰇫i󰈝 󰇮n

At 7,000 feet above sea level, Marvel Pass is a pristine white wonder

Alberta Ice 󰈛󰇱󰇮m󰇨󰇯󰈡g, Joh󰇳󰈤t󰈢󰇳 C󰈜󰈡yo󰇳

Ska󰇹󰇮󰈡g 󰇯󰇳 󰇺he 󰈛󰇮󰇺y, Cal󰇫󰇧󰈦y

Hel󰇮-s󰇬o󰈟s󰇬󰈢󰈥i󰈡g, Banff

You can Skate in the Olympic Plaza from November to March

Off-pi󰇷󰇺󰇪 f󰇼󰇳

Cro󰇷󰈤 c󰈢󰇼󰇳󰇺r󰈂 s󰈫i󰇮󰈡g, Gra󰇳󰈨󰇪 Pr󰈜i󰇶󰇮󰈥

You don’t have to be a skier or snow boarder to appreciate Alberta in winter. From the mountains to the prairies and even in the cities themselves, your clients will find a whole range of activities which allow them to embrace the cold - and not all require nerves of steel or high levels of fitness. Check out these snow sports...

Hik󰇮󰇳󰈪 󰇯n Ja󰇷󰇵󰇪r N󰈜󰇹i󰈢󰈡󰈜l Pa󰇶󰈬

The Ice Castle is crafted by hand using only icicles and water

Fat 󰈈󰇮󰈫󰇯󰈡g o󰇳 M󰇧󰇱󰇯g󰇳e L󰇧󰈬󰈥, Jas󰇴󰇪󰈦

Ice C󰇧󰇷󰇺l󰈥, Ed󰇲o󰈡t󰈢󰇳

Hus󰈫󰈠, Sno󰇿󰈠 Ow󰇰 Do󰈪 Sle󰈧 󰈓󰈢󰇼󰈦s, Kan󰇧󰇳󰈜󰈤ki󰇷

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InPictures_Alberta_Nov18.indd 34

11/27/18 05:25 PM

Talking Shop INSPIRED BY YOU T h e i n s i d e t ra c k o n t ra v e l

Saddle up

38 ag󰇪󰇳󰇺s h󰈜󰇨i jo󰇮󰇳󰈥󰈨 t󰇬e A󰇩󰇻 D mo󰇶󰇪 󰇼󰇺 me󰇫󰇧 󰈆󰈜m. Fin󰈧 󰈢 on 󰇴󰇧󰈪󰈥 42

WYOMING Office of Tourism is offering agents one of six spots on an exclusive fam trip to the state in May 2019. For a chance to win agents will need to answer three questions on the Selling Travel website at sellingtravel. co.uk/competitions. The trip includes return flights from London, six nights accommodation and meals throughout. wyoming.com/uk

A guide to the greats GREAT LAKES USA region has launched its new guide showcasing what's on offer around the region. The new collateral showcases the locally-sourced produce and flavours to be found around each of the states. Read the guide online at greatlakesusa.co.uk

Contents 43

BEEN THERE, DONE THAT

40

Manaakitanga?

THIS Māori word loosely translates as hospitality and to help you learn how your clients can benefit from a warm kiwi welcome, Tourism New Zealand have created a series of training videos: traveltrade.newzealand.com

AGENTS TALK

41

IN THE OFFICE

sellingtravel.co.uk

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11/27/18 05:27 PM

Dialogue

36

Bringing agents and product together

The event WHAT: Mauritius Dialogue WHERE: London WHEN: October 25 WHY: We teamed up with the Mauritius Tourism (MTPA) Promotion Authority and some top Mauritius product for an evening dedicated to this Indian Ocean island.

Featuring MTPA, Beachcomber Hotels & Resorts, VLH Group’s Veranda Resorts and Outrigger Mauritius Beach Resort.

Wha󰇹

ag󰇪󰇳󰇺s le󰇧󰇶󰈡t...

Kitesurfing is a huge draw. There’s even a kitesurfing festival, Kiteival, in July/August.

Seasoned kiters come from May to October”

“THERE ARE DIVE SITES WITHIN 20 METRES OF THE SHORE AROUND THE ENTIRE ISLAND”

“To g󰇪󰇹 󰈩󰈜r󰇶i󰇪󰈨 h󰈥󰇶e to󰇻󰇶󰇯󰈤t󰇷 󰈩us󰇹 󰇭󰇧v󰈥 󰇬a󰈨 t󰇬e󰇮󰈦 b󰇯󰇶󰇺h 󰈛e󰈦t󰇮fi󰈛󰈜󰇺e r󰇪is󰇷󰇻󰈥󰈨 an󰈧 󰈨󰇧t󰈥󰈧 󰈟it󰇬󰇮󰈡 t󰇬󰈥 la󰇷󰇺 t󰇬󰈦e󰇪 m󰈣󰇳󰇺h󰇷”

Matt Littlechild, MTPA

“As a new rule, all five star resorts have to have accessible rooms and a doctor or medical facilities-on site”

“Mauritius is a year-round destination, but peak season is in winter”

Don't 󰇲i󰈤s 󰈢󰇼󰇶 󰈡ex󰇹 󰇪󰇾󰈥n󰇹 󰈝om󰇮󰇳󰈪 n󰈥a󰇶 󰈠󰈢󰇼. Vis󰇮󰇹 󰈤󰈥l󰇰i󰈡g󰇹󰈦󰇧v󰈥󰇰.co.uk/ev󰇪󰇳󰇺s sellingtravel.co.uk

STD-Mauritius.indd 36

11/27/18 06:47 PM

COMPETITION ADVERTORIAL

win ANDY BARDEN

A FAM TRIP PLACE TO WYOMING

Saddle up to win a fam spot T

he Wyoming Office of Tourism is offering agents the chance to win one of six spots on an exclusive fam trip to the Cowboy State which will take place in May 2019.

Embrace the true spirit of the Wild West on our eight-day, seven-night fam trip. The winning agents will follow in the footsteps of cowboys, movie stars and early pioneers visiting locations including: • Cheyenne, home to world's largest outdoor rodeo, Frontier Days.

• Casper, a city close to nature but steeped in history and showcasing western culture at its very best through various museums and historic sites.

• Wind River, where you can expect epic vistas and Native American history.

• Cody, founded by ‘Buffalo Bill’ Cody.

• Yellowstone, the world’s first national

Wyoming-Competition.indd 37

ANSWER ALL THREE QUESTIONS TO WIN Located in Wyoming, what is the name of the world’s first national park?

What is the name of the world’s largest outdoor rodeo?

park, full of natural wonders and wildlife.

• Jackson, a contemporary western town on the edge of Grand Teton National Park.

What you'll get The trip includes return flights from London, six nights’ accommodation plus one night spent in flight and your breakfasts, lunches and dinners throughout the trip.

Enter before February 22 2019 to be in with a chance of winning a place.

The winners will be announced by Friday March 1 2019 visitwyoming / travelwyoming.com/uk

How tall is Devils Tower National Monument? sellingtravel.co.uk/competitions

11/26/18 02:31 PM

FACE TO FACE

38

w i t h B a r b a ra C h a r l t o n

It’s a sad goodbye from me!

After 10 years as a columnist for this magazine Barbara Charlton pens her final column before taking a break from an industry she has served for 25 years In 1993, when I set out on what was to become a 25-year career as a travel consultant, it was the era of Viewdata. Agents conducted their business via a phone they held in place by their chin and customers booked their summer holiday as early as the preceeding September.

We had pages of advance registrations to do at 7am on their release date, and we could hold the packages off while the customers considered the prices.

It’s all a far cry from how things are these days, with many customers playing us retailers off against each other and thinking nothing of extracting all our knowledge, experience and suggestions and then booking with the cheapest bidder.

It is rare now that a customer comes into the shop with the brochure they picked up from us the week before, and says: “I would like to book this."

On the plus side, the march of technology means that we no longer

have to manually work out mileages, fares and rules from those old OAG guide books.

I remember when, to make a change to a customer’s flight, we just stuck a little sticker onto the hand-written air ticket. And I clearly recall when the ‘e-ticket’ was introduced in the late 1990s and we thought our customers would never get the hang of that or ‘trust’ them.

Even costing a package holiday for customers meant checking so much small print for room supplements, underoccupancy charges, then flicking to the back for the flight supplements on different days of the week.

We have had many highs and lows over the years, with operator and airline collapses – there have been far too many of these to mention - wars, recessions, terrorist attacks and natural disasters. But somehow, this industry has always rallied round and many good agents survived as they took on the mantle of ‘crisis managers’, and refreshed their knowledge – time and time again.

I have also had a lot of hair colours and

styles over the last 25 years! I found an old passport from 1996 that was full of lovely stamps from various countries, but in my photo I am wearing an old Lunn Poly uniform – the tartan palm trees one - set

0208 585 4020 holidays@travelpack.com

MALDIVES

£1929pp

fr

7nts, Hard Rock Hotel Maldives

£1345pp

fr

8nts, Explore Sri Lanka

£1535pp

fr

7nts, Radisson Blu Azuri Resort & Spa

Prices are based on twin share, includes flights, accommodation & transfers

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11/26/18 02:23 PM

FACE TO FACE

39

w i t h B a r b a ra C h a r l t o n

off with a lovely soft perm!

Back then, there were very few Independents that took on untrained staff, so many of the current oldies like me started off in Lunn Poly, Pickfords or Thomas Cook. After two years on the high street I was lucky enough to start out on my Independent route, and spent 14 years as a Travel Counsellor before I returned to work for an independent agent.

Why am I reminiscing?

Contact Barbara by email sharetheworldcharlton@gmail.com

So it is with a heavy heart that I have chosen to take a break from travel. I am sure it will just be temporary because after all these years selling travel, making people’s holiday dreams come true runs through my veins.

But for now I shall be taking some time out to deal with some other projects I have on the go. Maybe next year I will look for something new, but if it is back in travel it will be on a part-time basis only.

Is there anyone out there who wants to benefit from my 25 years of travel experience, to help them out a couple of days a week, even if that is on a temporary self-employed basis?!

But for now, readers, this will be my last column for Selling Travel, although I shall certainly remain an avid reader!

I have kept every publication since my very first monthly column in March 2008, when I first started to write for what was then Selling Long Haul. I would like to thank the magazine's editor, Steve Hartridge, for giving me that opportunity. To give a lowly travel agent with nothing but an O-Level in English

the opportunity to write for a leading industry publication has been a dream come true.

I would also like to thank all those lovely suppliers, hotel and airline reps, as well as colleagues, who have supported me and become true friends.

I would definitely not March 2008 have seen, or become so knowledgeable on, so many longhaul destinations without the amazing fam trips I have been fortunate to go on.

I have been lucky enough to visit South Africa five times as welll as Kenya, Australia, Canada, Thailand, the Maldives, California, Florida twice and Saint Lucia three times, plus six other Caribbean islands - and that is just the long-haul trips.

So, to readers out there just starting out on the notoriously poor paid path of a travel agent, I would say ‘stick with it!’, attend as many training events as you can because the contacts and knowledge you gain will prove invaluable.

Do any form of training that is offered to you, and learn your trade well. In this industry knowledge and contacts really count and will help make you successful.

If any reader wants to ask me anything at all about travel matters, I would be happy to try to help. Just contact me at my personal email at the bottom of the page.

I’m Barbara, signing out one last time with, as always, ‘Happy Selling!’

Barbara Charlton 0208 585 4020 holidays@travelpack.com

£1745pp

fr

7nts, Tigers Trail

£1675pp

fr

7nts, Tour of Golden Triangle

£1779pp

fr

8nts, Tour of Sacred Amritsar to Himachal

Prices are based on twin share, includes flights, accommodation & transfers

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11/26/18 02:23 PM

AGENTS TALK

40

S e l l i n g Tra v e l l i s t e n s

This month #agentstalk about...

Get 󰇷󰈢󰈝󰇯al 󰇿󰇮󰇺h 󰇼󰇷:

SellingTravel

SellingTravelmag

Age󰇳󰇺s ov󰇪󰇶󰇭󰈥ar󰈧

TRAVEL AGENT RANTS & RAVES Rya󰇳󰇧󰇯󰈦 pa󰇷󰈤󰇪n󰇫󰈥󰈦s a󰇶󰇪 no󰇿 󰈦󰇪q󰇼i󰇶󰇪󰈨 t󰈣 󰈛󰇭ec󰈫 󰇮󰈡 an󰈂 󰈤󰇪c󰈣󰇳󰈨 ba󰇫 󰈢󰇾󰈥r 10k󰇫 fo󰇶 󰇧󰈡 £8 fe󰇪

"Has anyone got clients due to go on a Lapland trip who've had a phone call from the tour operator to say there's no snow?!"

"IN MY VIEW YOU GET WHAT YOU PAY FOR.. Why expect more when you pay so little?"

"Socks? Yes sir, that'll be £2 please. Sir wants to check in two socks? OK, IN THAT CASE, £5."

"I had to book a last-minute flight to London today. AER LINGUS WAS €500 FOR THE ROUND TRIP, RYANAIR WAS €40."

WE POSTED...YOU SAID

"Anyone else being bombarded with Black Friday travel deals? Are they helpful or more of a hassle?

Anyone found any that seem too good to be true?"

structures, SEEM NOT TO

Look ahead: "It seems pointless at a time when people aren't thinking about travel.

We should concentrate on Sunshine Saturday in January."

UNDERSTAND SIMPLE GOOD BUSINESS."

Black or bleak?

"RYANAIR, with cancelled flights and ever-changing price

"It's a wonder there isn't a £5 CHARGE FOR THE TOILET. Watch this space!"

"The majority of my clients don't think they are getting a great deal during this time and find the whole thing very commercialised."

Hidden gems: "There are some great deals about... It's a case of comparing and questioning 'is it really a good deal?'"

Seasonal cheer... "I'm more fed up with the Xmas adverts Especially boring John Lewis!"

To the point: "Bog off & stop wasting my time"

INSTAFAM nd

ila in Tha reston s anybp oliday h @beth e is o turqu with @

@sellingtravmag

Anneka, @ Southern CrossTR in Rio wit h @latin_ routes

Going on a fam trip? Tag @sellingtravel and #instafam and you could be here next month!

"A few years ago I booked a Mr Christmas on a Christmas cruise" "One of the girls in my office got this reply from a customer on her service questionnaire: 'Very nice girl but when asked about how holiday would be effected by brexit she didn't know.'

I'm done!"

"I had an old woman who came in to complain and then pulled her teeth out for some reason and put them on my desk!"

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HOT DATES...

I N T H E O F FIIN C ET H E O F F I C E

with���

St Kitts

with GoCruise

Rise of the river cruise GoCruise agent James Hill was awarded the Special Recognition award at the CLIA river cruise conference in Paris this month. Jessica Pook speaks to him about the benefits of specialising in a niche market: "Whilst GoCruise has evolved into GoCruise and Travel, my focus has been on river cruising, and in particular ships with a capacity of under 250, virtually since I started.

"The biggest misconception about river cruising is that it is just for the old and less adventurous. In fact, the average age of the river cruiser is now under 60. New fitness facilities on European ships and itineraries in India, Vietnam, Cambodia and other long haul destinations are appealing to those who want more from their trip than just watching the scenery go by."

Spe󰈛󰇮󰈜󰇱is󰇲 󰇮󰈤 k󰈥󰈂

"Clients are increasingly doing in-depth research on the internet, so an agent now needs to match or even enhance the knowledge that the client has gained.

By specialising in a particular area of travel, an agent can often offer product which the client may not have found. Customers increasingly want to deal with agents who really know their stuff and don't sell on price alone.

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MEET...

SAJU NG’ALLA St Kitts Tourism PR Manager

1

TELL US ABOUT 2019'S EVENTS.

2

WHY SHOULD AGENTS SELL ST. KITTS DURING THIS TIME?

It's another year of food, music and sports events in St. Kitts! After celebrating the 47th St. Kitts Carnival (December to January), the island comes alive again with the 9th Annual Admiral's Cup Tournament (February 2-7) followed by the two oneday international cricket matches between England and the West Indies (March 8 & 10) we know who we're cheering for!

"The number of homeworkers means that trade reps and BDMs may not be finding key sellers as we aren't as easy to locate as a high street address. The growth of coffee mornings and local meetings is one way to counter this. Webinars are also a good way to reach out."

The average age of the river cruiser is now under 60

Cru󰇮󰇷󰇯󰈡g 󰇨o󰈢󰈩

"Both the river cruise and the small ship sectors – expedition and coastal cruising – have exploded in recent years. The growth of television advertising and 'personality' cruise programmes has increased consumer awareness. The big internet agencies are now selling more specialist cruise product but often without in-depth product knowledge.

Ohers have set up dedicated teams and have moved away from the discounting as has often been the case in the ocean cruise sector. Websites now need to really show the product in depth – and preferably have live pricing and availability.

"Many homeworkers now work around clients on weekends and in the evenings, so suppliers need to think outside the 'we are open nine to five, Monday to Friday' box and either have a manned phone line or give agents the ability to hold options or make bookings."

Events add a different flavour to a holiday.

It's a chance to join with locals to enjoy a favourite sport and participate in the celebration. It's lively and vibrant, everyone has an opinion and everyone celebrates throughout. You may leave without even knowing who won but it's all about the vibe!

3

WHY IS SPORT SO IMPORTANT IN ST. KITTS?

Sport runs through our veins, from kids to adults, bringing communities together, keeping us active and fit. Above all it gives us more reasons to celebrate, no matter who wins or loses.

4

HOW CAN PEOPLE GET THERE?

The most popular access is on British Airways' twice-weekly service to St. Kitts via Antigua. An alternative route is via Barbados, with daily direct flights into St. Kitts with LIAT.

gocruise.co.uk/cruise-specialist/james-hill.phtml

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ON LOCATION

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A b u D h a b i Me g a Fa m 2 0 1 8

Arabian days & nights Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, along with Abu Dhabi’s Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT) hosted 38 agents on a culture-filled four-night mega fam to Abu Dhabi earlier this year.

It was the fourth year running that the partners hosted a mega fam together, with 38 agents flying from Heathrow, Manchester, Edinburgh and Dublin before spending two nights on the Corniche and two nights on Yas Island.

In each location the agents stayed in a variety of different luxury hotels, including the Grand Hyatt, Jumeirah at Etihad Towers, Bab Al Qasr, and St. Regis Abu Dhabi on the Corniche, and Yas Hotel, Yas Rotana, Centro Yas Island, Crowne Plaza, Radisson Blu, and Park Inn on Yas Island.

Jane Dawkins, UK & Ireland Senior Trade Executive, DCT Abu Dhabi said: “The popularity of our mega fam with front line sellers, from key tour operators to agents, goes from strength to strength, which is testament to the many exciting developments in hotels, family entertainment and culture in Abu Dhabi.”

During the trip agents were treated to some of the emirate's top tours and

experiences, including a visit to the famouly opulent Emirates Palace, where you can get a cappuccino flecked with real gold.

The recently-opened Louvre Abu Dhabi was also on the agenda, an architectural masterpiece housing almost 25,000 square metres of art from around the world.

Agents also got to have some fun at the Warner Bros. World™ Abu Dhabi theme park and enjoyed activities staple to any Abu Dhabi trip such as camel riding and dune bashing.

James Harrison, Etihad Airways General Manager UK & Ireland said: “We're very glad to have run another fam with DCT. These trips always give agents a fantastic taster of the beauty and excitement Abu Dhabi has to offer and we hope the enjoyment had on this trip helps agents encourage more people to fly with us to our hub.”

Clockwise: Emirates Palace lobby; outside the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque; Warner Bros. World; agents exploring the desert; visitors from London at Hala Oasis; Main Image: Yas Hotel, Yas Island

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BEEN THERE, DONE THAT

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Tra i n i n g , e v e n t s a n d f a m t r i p s

Titan, Shearings, Newmarket and more On the high seas

THE Global Travel Group and P&O Cruises hosted 54 GTB members plus top cruise suppliers including Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises on board P&O Azura for a two-night training event and sailing to Bruges.

The weekend included a ship-wide scavenger hunt, dinner, speeddating between agents and suppliers and the option of exploring Bruges or enjoying the ship's facilities. globaltravelgroup.com

On yer bike

GABBY Burden, Mark Warner, sells the active life with Jean Foster, Inspire Travel; Thelma McWilliams, Hays Travel; Sarah Bolton, Travel Counsellors; and Carly Moseley, Inspire Travel, at a BRIGHT event. brightconsortia.com

Titan’s 40th in India AS part of Titan’s 40th anniversary, the escorted tour specialist took 22 agents on one of its top-selling tours: India’s Golden Triangle with Ranthambore. The group had a wonderful time and even managed to spot some Bengal tigers. titantravel.co.uk

Tea time

SHEARINGS Holidays recently hosted over 20 agents at the Country Living Hotel in Harrogate for training and afternoon tea.

Pictured from left are Ginette Steele, Midcounties Co-operative; Jennifer Harding, Hays Travel; Claire Dutton, Shearings Holidays and Damian Kellegher, Designer Travel. shearings.com

Agent of the month STUART Cowell presenting Travel Norwich Airport’s Mandy Gostling, Heidi Halstead & Karen Gowing with Newmarket’s Agent of the Month October for the region of South East, South & Northern Ireland.

Super training for Thomas Cook staff

SALES consultants from three Thomas Cook shops in Aberdeen got together to do some training with Super Break. Pictured from left, in uniform, are consultants from the Bon Accord branch: Rachel Cormack, Sarah Davidson, Fiona Pastuszko, Kristian Hughes and Lewis Edwards, with Super Break Business Development Manager Wendy Cameron at the front. superbreak.com

newmarketholidays.co.uk

Have you enjoyed an interesting trade event or been on a trip or fam that you would like to see featured on this page? Email editorial@bmipublishing.co.uk

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44

a sonoran road trip

possible mission

Lynn Houghton takes a road trip from Tucson to its southerly neighbour Hermosillo, Mexico, two destinations that share the distinctive terrain of the Sonora Desert

T

all, slightly stooped Saguaro Cactus surround the perimeter of the Tohono O’Odham cemetery, acting as grizzled, gnarled sentinels. The cactus’ outstretched ‘arms’, full of spikes and thorns, discourage visitors from coming closer.

Atop this rich, red land is an historic white adobe structure, the San Xavier Bac hurch, which has existed here for well over 200 years. The earth and church dominate the landscape, their terracotta and white colours in stark contrast to the backdrop of a searing hallucinogenic blue sky.

About a mile away, a shop is selling produce. Run by the San Xavier Co-op, ancestral crops are grown nearby on what was once privatelyowned farms of the reservation: topiary beans, 60-day corn, and squash including brightly coloured yellow Canary Squash.

The co-op trains

young members of the tribe to use these ingredients in their cooking.

Mesquite flour, extracted from the pod of indigenous mesquite trees, is proving popular for baking.

The Tohono O’Odham reservation, near old Tucson, is just part of a mix exuding Wild West ambience and charm.

This includes Tucson’s regenerated downtown, with its artisans’ district and authentic eateries that draw visitors in droves. Some restaurants, such as the Cup Café, are based in quirky locations like the Hotel Congress, famous as the last hangout of escaped criminal John Dillinger, captured here in the early 20th century.

Outside of town, tribal lands stretch across the U.S. border deep into the Mexican state of Sonora. There is no fence nor delineated border.

Due to a special treaty with the U.S. government, people and animals cross back and forth unrestricted as they have done for thousands of years. Indeed, 25 million Mexicans cross into Arizona via Nogales every year, to shop and eat in Tucson.

Over the border

Arizonans also cross the U.S. border to reach their nearest beach, Rocky Point, which lies on the azure tinged Sea of Cortez; a body of water renowned for bountiful sea life.

But I travel a further 400 km to visit Kino Bay, the coastal shore of the city of Hermosillo. Kino Bay serves up a mindboggling variety of seafood in its local restaurants, including oysters, octopus and marlin. El Pargo Rojo’s (1426 Mar de Cortez) ceviche and shrimp-stuffed toritos are quite simply to die for and clams sold in shacks near the water are ridiculously fresh. A bit of lime and salsa squeezed into a newly priced-open shell gives an extra zing.

In Sonora, Mexican Cowboys (Vaqueros) take on an almost heroic status and have influenced the cuisine here. So, it’s no surprise that carne asada (grilled beef) is king. Hermosillo Restaurant Mochomos Fusión Senorense is known for pushing the boundary on traditional dishes and is the place to try out unique cuts of pork and

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a sonoran road trip

beef, grilled table-side on a hot stone. The cooking style is a bit ‘home on the range’ but with astonishing flavour.

Coyotas, large baked cookies invented by local tribe the Comcáac Seri, are also available and the Doña Maria Bakery in old town is one place to pick up this treat.

For sport and baseball fans, Hermosillo’s new stadium is the place to watch a ball game – during the seventh inning stretch fans grill their own supper on set-up BBQs.

City of Gastronomy

Returning to Old Tucson, I tour the Mission Garden on the grounds of the original Spanish walled garden.

Near now defunct mission San Agustin, the Mission Garden has a section

Main picture: Tucson skyline. Above: atmospheric roadside service station; fresh Mexican produce; a simple tortilla snack

dedicated to the Spanish colonialists who introduced wheat to the area. There is an historic garden, heirloom fruits and a garden dedicated to Chinese immigrants who settled here.

As there are nearly 290 days of sunshine a year here, crops grow with vigour, and thanks to river water diverted from Lake Mead (fought for in the 1960s), even drought effected plants survive.

There has been agriculture near the Santa Cruz River since 1,200 BC and a local NGO called Native Seed Search works with local tribes and farmers to retain and store historic seeds to be used in perpetuity.

The growing of heirloom crops and the celebration of Sonoran cuisine are two reasons Tucson was designated a Creative City of Gastronomy by UNESCO in 2015.

The award-winning ‘Best of the Barrio’ tour presents an overview of Mexican cuisine with a Sonoran twist.

It stops at top Mexican restaurants: El Merendero, famous for shrimp chicharrones, La Estrella Panaderia bakery and El Güero Canelo known for its Sonoran hot dogs. (grayline.com) For chocolate lovers, suggest Monsoon Chocolate for drinks and treats including chocolate tacos, plus breakfast and lunch.

Owner and Tucson native Adam Krantz creates chocolate on the premises and promotes the popular new trend for ‘bean to bar’ products.

“Tucson has never been affluent and the harsh climate impacts everyone.

Perhaps that is why there is a real sense of community here,” he says. 

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Top tips Let’s fly away

For those interested in the history of flight and aircraft, a trip to Tucson’s Pima Air and Space Museum will be worth the effort. Set on 80 acres, exhibits are housed in enormous hangars and the variety of helicopters, jets (including British-made Hawker Siddeley Harriers and German Luftwaffe) plus other assorted aircraft, both commercial and military, is extensive and not found anywhere else in the world.

Where to book it

North America Travel Service 0333 323 9033 Arizona Highlights is a 15-day/14-night fly-drive. It includes scheduled flights, four-door car hire, accommodations and personalised road book. On arrival, clients stay three nights in Tucson at the Westward Look Wyndham Grand Resort and Spa. Prices start from £2599PP

northamericatravelservice.co.uk

Bon Voyage – 0800 316 3012 The Arizona – Southwestern Desert Adventure tour explores ancient Native American traditions, the spirit of the Old West, and Hispanic and Spanish influences. Prices start at £1925PP for 11 nights’ accommodation, return flights from UK to Phoenix, car hire, a personalised road book with travel tips and day-to-day driving itinerary. bonvoyage.co.uk

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46

med islands

ports of thrall

With their sun, sea and sumptuous cities the Med’s many islands will likely always attract holidaying Brits. Jeannine Williamson looks at what’s trending and unveils some new hot spots

W

e’ll stop when we get around the next corner,” Will, our cycle guide, calls out as we pedal steadily inland from the Corsican coast.

He’s certainly right about that! As we round the bend to face a steep gradient, we freeze in our tracks.

Known as the ‘mountain of the sea’, with more than 20 peaks topping 6,500ft, it’s no surprise Corsica was picked for the starting stages of the 2013 Tour de France.

In the heat of the early afternoon sunshine we’ve no desire to compete for a yellow jersey so our slow-moving peloton turns around to head off on the flat to the pretty nearby town of Moriani Plage.

We stop for a well-earned ice cream at A l’abri des Flots, where the incredible 32page menu lists all manner of cool treats including one resembling an afternoon tea.

Despite being ‘our’ closest Mediterranean island, Corsica remains relatively unknown to Brits and, with a refreshing lack of commercialisation, we

feel as if we’re genuinely ‘abroad’ and somewhere very different.

The calm seas and hilly terrain make it an ideal destination to try new sporting skills or brush up on existing ones – in a beautiful setting against a dramatic backdrop of green mountains.

On the final day some fellow guests sign up for a weekly mini-triathlon, but instead I decide to have another ice cream!

Golden ticket From lesser-known Corsica to well-known Malta, Cyprus and the Greek and Spanish isles, what all Mediterranean islands share is guaranteed sunshine, beautiful beaches, accommodation to suit all budgets and widespread appeal to everyone from families to couples, solos to mature culture vultures.

The Cyprus Tourism Organisation (CTO) reported a 12.4% year-on-year increase for UK arrivals in the first half of 2018.

As part of its ongoing efforts to offer some of the best quality beaches in the

Med, the CTO has also announced that 47 beaches are now accessible to those with special access needs (26 of those are fully accessible and 21 partly accessible).

With 64 Blue Flag beaches, widely considered the top accolade when it comes to beach quality, Cyprus has some of the cleanest bathing waters in Europe.

Malta is another hot spot with Classic Collection Holidays’ Head of Purchasing, Gary Boyer, reports a 20% jump in sales.

He said: “Following its European City of Culture status, Malta has exploited the potential of Valletta as a short-stay break with a wealth of appealing boutique hotels and new attractions.

“There’s also been a new marketing campaign targeting a younger and LGBTQ demographic, highlighting the nightlife of the St Julian’s area and year-round music festivals. This year has seen the opening of more five-star hotels on the Greek islands than I can recall in a long time, and goodvalue Cyprus has performed very solidly.”

Kirker Holidays’ Marketing Manager,

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med islands

Patrick Millar, said: “Bookings are up for Sicily, Sardinia and Malta, but Mallorca in particular is surging in popularity with an increase of almost 15% in volume of bookings year-on-year.

For Kirker this means specifically the island’s unspoiled north coast and beautiful villages of the Tramuntana mountains.”

Island hopping is a growing trend for Olympic Holidays and the operator has responded in kind by expanding its product along with adding more family and all-inclusive options.

Ricky Wason, Head of Product & Purchasing, commented: “The next edition of the main brochure, launching before the end of this year, features new Greek destinations including Karpathos, Andros and Spetses, to name a few.

“For summer 2019 we’re seeing strong demand across the programme, especially for the all-inclusive Esperides Beach Family Resort, Rhodes, and self-catering Sweet Memories, Cyprus.”

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Top experiences

What’s new

Set sail: A full-day cruise on a traditional Turkish gullet ship is a wonderful and memorable way to explore the Maltese coastline. It is an experience and is bookable through Do Something Different (dosomethingdifferent.com).

Regal resting place: A sightseeing highlight in Cyprus is the Tomb of the Kings, which dates back to 4BC. Here underground burial chambers resemble grand houses with shady column-lined courtyards.

Pinch of salt: On Ibiza’s southernmost tip the Salinas salt field creates a sparkling sight while neighbouring Las Salina beach is a beautiful spot for taking sunset photos.

Gothic Grandeur: Palma’s landmark La Seu Cathedral which looks down on the Majorcan capital is a Gothic masterpiece with an altar designed by modernist architect Antoni Gaudi. And get the cameras ready for its stunning stained glass rose window.

Tour operators: CV Villas (cvvillas.com) has reintroduced Kefalonia’s Scala area.

For Corfu the luxury villa specialist has secured seat allocation on British Airways’ Heathrow service and easyJet’s GatwickCorfu flights.

Prestige Holidays (prestigeholidays.co.uk) has added the Canary Island’s Fuerteventura for winter 2018/19.

Kirker Holidays’ (kirkerholidays.com) popular Ischia Music Festival itinerary will depart on October 11.

Hotels: The exclusive 35-room Katikies Mykanos (katikies.com) opened on the Greek party island in June while the 70-room adult-only MarBella Nido Hotel & Villas (marbellanido.gr) has opened in Corfu and the MarBella Corfu (marbella.gr) has undergone a €20 million refurbishment.

Crete’s five-star Daios Cove Luxury Resort & Villas (daioscovecrete.com) has opened Ostriconi Beach in Corsica is located at the beginning of the Desert of the Agriates

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Malta.

More than we could ever tell.

Malta’s capital city has been named the European Capital of Culture for 2018 City breakers couldn’t choose a more exciting time to spend a weekend in English-speaking Valletta The UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most concentrated historic areas in the world; there are over 320 historical monuments to be found in Valletta alone. Travellers can wander through elegant winding streets and explore the city at their own pace.

Valletta Waterfront

The city boasts stunning boutique hotels; perfect for visitors wanting to stay in luxurious accommodation with a quirky edge. City breakers can enjoy waterfront alfresco dining overlooking the Grand Harbour whilst tasting an array of sea-food caught from the Mediterranean Sea accompanied by a glass of Maltese wine.

Valletta, the sunniest city in Europe, is a must for a weekend getaway and it’s only a three-hour flight away from the UK.

MaltaUK.com FLY DIRECT TO MALTA

VisitMalta

Strait Street, Valletta

@VisitMaltaUK

BECOME A MALTA & GOZO EXPERT www.learnmalta.org

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med islands

the Beach House open-air lounge and restaurant and Rhodes’ eco-friendly Gennadi Grand Resort (gennadigrandresort.com), featuring suites with private pools, has its first full season in 2019.

In spring 2019 Stademos Hotels (stademos. com.cy) opens its third Cyprus property, the 207-room Amara in Limassol, with a restaurant headed by London-based Michelin-starred chef Giorgio Locatelli.

The five-star 169-suite Columbia Beach Resort (columbiaresort.com) in Pissouri Bay, Cyprus, has completed a renovation.

New amenities include a partnership

Clockwise from top left: Ibiza’s Old Town; rural Menorca; the honeyed architecture in Valletta; Tombs of the Kings in Paphos

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with Cyprus Diving Adventures Tourism talk (cyprusdivingadventures.com), offering dive trips “Malta is a unique Mediterranean and PADI courses. country. it is well-known for its Mallorca’s Jumeirah Port Soller Hotel & friendly people and truly amazing Spa’s (jumeirah.com) new stargazing package history and culture. Its wonderful warm has a five-course al fresco meal for two climate makes it an ideal year-round and private guide destination and the led star-gazing UNESCO-listed “Bookings are up for Sicily, capital Valletta is a experience.

Restaurants: very popular city Sardinia and Malta, but In Palma, Mallorca, break choice.

Mallorca in particular is London restaurateur “Malta is ideal for surging in popularity” Eddie Hart’s new couples and families Patrick Millar, Marketing Manager, Kirker Holidays El Camino Palma looking for sun and (elcaminopalma.es) sea, but there’s also highlights Mallorcan cuisine and boutique plenty to do. It is also a very safe destination Sant Jaume Hotel’s new Mediterranean for gay people, having been rated first out restaurant showcases the region’s fresh of 49 European countries in the 2016, 2017 ingredients (fabiolagastronomicgarden.com). and 2018 Rainbow Maps for LGBTI tolerance Flights: In November easyJet (easyjet.com) and laws.” launched twice-weekly Gatwick to Menorca Peter Vella, Director UK & Ireland, flights becoming the only airline to fly to Malta Tourism Authority the island in winter.

Attractions: In Cyprus the Larnaka Where to book it Municipal Historical Archives Museum MARK WARNER – 0333 305 7267 has reopened after extensive renovations Seven nights’ full-board at Corsica’s San and work has started on Limassol’s Lucianu Beach Resort, half an hour from casino, opening in 2020, which will be Bastia airport, starts from £3,741 for a Europe’s largest. New excursions from family of four departing May 26, 2019, Do Something Different (dosomethingdifferent. including flights, watersports, activities, com) include a sunset horseback kids’ club and childcare. ride and barbecue in Mallorca. markwarner.co.uk/agents 

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50

virginia

turn the air

blue

Outdoor adventures, wine tasting, history, music and much more, Virginia is a state that offers a wealth of Southern experiences, says Steve Hartridge

The Blue Ridge Mountains and foothills in Virginia offer some of the finest mountain biking in the U.S. Opposite: Stop for a breather in Carvins Cove, near Roanoke

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virginia

D

o you want to take the easy, intermediate or difficult route?” politely asks Kristine, my guide for a morning of mountain biking.

Still feeling a bit jet-lagged after my transatlantic flight and noting that Kristine is clearly something of an expert – I can tell that just from the colourful Lycra kit she is wearing and her bum-bag that is stuffed with energy bars and salt-replacement sachets - I suggest we start on one of the ‘easy’ trails.

It is the right call: I spend the next 25 minutes pedalling along a trail barely wide enough to take a bike tyre, tackling some short but lung-busting climbs, ducking under overhanging branches, negotiating tree roots and accelerating through small pools of water. With my wheels spinning in loose sand, I struggle to keep up.

But, with a few tips from Kristine – “When the ground is bumpy, keep your pedals parallel” and “If you’re too far forward over the handlebars when heading downhill you will go!”– I quickly improve and by the time we tackle an intermediate trail called ‘Little Belle’ I am starting to feel confident.

I am in Carvins Cove Natural Reserve in Virginia, the second-largest municipal park in the U.S., with 60 miles of trails.

We stop by a cobalt-blue lake and Kristine tells me all about the many thrills and spills she has had cycling in Virginia, including a close-enough encounter with some black bears on the very trail we are on.

“Didn’t you notice the upturned bin and rubbish strewn over the road on the way into the reserve…that was a bear,” she said.

All too soon, the bikes have been loaded back into the 4x4, and we are heading back into Roanoke, where I will spend the next two days visiting the city’s attractions.

Follow the trail

Scott K. Brown

Mountain biking is one of the emerging popular activities in Virginia’s Blue Ridge region, which offers over 300 miles of specialist trails. The area, which takes in Roanoke and Salem and several counties close to the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, is being promoted by the newly-named Virginia’s Blue Ridge (visitvbr.com) marketing association, which is aiming for more international visitors by pushing the ‘metro-mountain’ mix of urban fun and outdoor adventures on offer.

Roanoke, the region’s largest town and

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a starting point for many driving the Blue Ridge Parkway, is attracting those with a love of the great outdoors, and there are outfitters like Roanoke Mountain Adventures (roanokemountainadventures.com) which will kit out riders and novices alike with mountain bikes, canoes, kayaks, paddle-boards and more.

Looking down on Roanoke is Mill Mountain, with its 13 miles of single-track mountain bike trails. Then there’s the Roanoke Valley Greenway, 30 miles of mixed-use paved pathways, which runs close to downtown.

Other bike routes are springing up throughout Virginia, including a trail that runs 32 miles from Richmond to Jamestown – linking the state’s present day capital to its old capital.

The age of the train Roanoke developed on the back of the railways and a glimpse back to those days is on offer at the fabulous O. Winston Link Museum, dedicated to the photography of a railroad photographer whose work, mostly in black and white, captured the dying days of steam locomotives.

Across town, locomotives, planes, and classic cars are on display at the Virginia Museum of Transportation, housed in a former freight depot.

Still on trains, Amtrak put Roanoke back on its route network late last year. The service, which starts out in Boston, stops in New York and Washington DC, before calling in at the Virginia towns of Lynchburg, Charlottesville, Culpepper and Manassas.

The state’s next goal is to see the service extend further southwest to Bristol, on the Virginia-Tennessee state line.

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virginia

Today’s visitors can combine a history tour with sampling the wines. In the summer months, on a terrace overlooking the rows of vines, the winery offers picnic tables and live music, while visitors wanting to learn about the battle can visit the nearby Manassas National Battlefield Park.

Music and beer

“Suggest to clients heading to Washington DC that they stay in Arlington, Virginia.

A short hop away, it has 40 or so hotels offering rates up to 20% less than those in downtown DC”

Top square: View of the Roanoke Valley from Mill Mountain Park; Manasass train station; cocktails at Franklin County Distilleries; Right: the Roanoke Star, the ‘Hollywood Sign of the East Coast’.

Opposite page: McAfee Knob, one of the most photographed spots on the Appalachian Trail, In Virginia;’s Blue Ridge; iconic locomotive at the Virginia Museum of Transportation, Roanoke

I boarded in Manassas, the sleek blueand-grey train appearing just before its 18.00 scheduled departure. With its wide seats, high soft-leather backs, big dropdown tray and a power outlet by the side, it shared few similarities to my usual daily 07.07 from Brighton to East Croydon.

There was also a buffet car serving a selection of sandwiches, hot snacks and bottles of Virginia-brewed beer. I spent the four-hour journey in total comfort, and near silence – and all for $49.

Wine and history That same afternoon I had enjoyed tasting some excellent wines at the Winery at Bull Run. About 25 miles southwest of Washington, D.C. the winery is one of 300 in Virginia but the only one on the grounds of a battlefield: Bull Run was the site In July 1861 of the first major engagement of the American Civil War. The war was so much of a ‘novelty’ at that time that, as Union and Confederate troops began gathering for the fight ahead locals, dressed in their Sunday finery, jumped on their horse and carts and rode out to watch the action unfold. It didn’t take more than a few rounds of musket fire for them to realise that this was perhaps not the ideal family afternoon out.

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Roanoke is also a jumping off point for The Crooked Road, a self-drive musicthemed tour that travels 300 miles through southwest Virginia, highlighting the tradition of bluegrass, gospel and blues music in the mountains of Appalachia and the Blue Ridge. Towns like Floyd, Galax and the Meadows of Dan all host their own country and bluegrass events and festivals, The trail also exposes visitors to the crafts, heritage and history of the region.

Across Virginia is an emerging network of ‘beer trails’. Join the Ale Trail in Virginia’s Blue Ridge, which takes in 15 craft breweries, 14 wineries and to distilleries.

The Star Hill Brewery in Roanoke is one of the oldest in the state while just out of town Franklin County Distilleries, which dubs itself as the ‘Moonshine Capital of the World,’ serves up cocktails like ‘Dilly-Peno’, a mix of jalapeños, sage and corn whisky.

Other real ale routes include the Richmond Beer Trail, with more than 25 craft breweries and more on the way, and the Shenandoah Valley Beerwerks Trail featuring 13 craft breweries.

History makers Richmond made Lonely Planet’s ‘must visit in 2018’ list, partly due to a burgeoning foodies scene fuelled by chefs from DC moving there to offer a contemporary

virginia

Nate Dennison

twist on traditional Southern fayre.

Next year marks the 400th anniversary of the birth of the U.S. in Jamestown. Visitors can explore Virginia’s Historic Triangle and soak in the history of the birthplace of America in Colonial Williamsburg, Jamestown’s historic fort and Yorktown.

Also in recognition of the 400th anniversary, next month (January) a new exhibit, American Adventure, will open at the Virginia Living Museum in Newport News at the southeastern end of the Virginia Peninsula, and continue until April 21. The immersive, educational role-play adventure will ask visitors to conquer one great challenge: survive the year as one of the original Jamestown colonists.

Top experiences Star City: Roanoke is so named because of the giant neon-lit star that looks down on the Roanoke Valley from atop Mill Mountain. It was built in 1949 as a spectacular Christmas decoration but was so popular the city kept it up. Head up there for great views of the city and surrounding Appalachian Mountains.

Pinball wizard: Also in Roanoke, drop by the Pinball Museum in the town’s Centre in the Square. It is a labour of love run by an owner who travels the country picking up machines and restoring them.

Fine art: The Virginia Museum of Fine arts in Richmond is one of the best museums in the east. It was the first facility in the U.S. to host an exhibit from the Forbidden City in Beijing and is known for its large exhibition of Faberge eggs.

Mount Vernon: Visit the restored home of the country’s first president, George Washington. The Mount

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Vernon Inn is famous for its peanut soup while other attractions on the estate include a working blacksmith and a newly re-opened whisky distillery. Apparently GW made plenty of money of his own selling his own corn and rye-based whiskies.

Alexandria: Stroll down historic King Street in the town George Washington called home. Just over the Potomac from the capital, it was there long before there was a Washington D.C. Shopping: Tyson’s Corner, in McLean, Virginia, just outside of Washington D.C., is known as the ‘Rodeo Drive of the East Coast’.

Tyson’s Corner Center is one of the largest malls in the country, with 300 department and specialty stores that include Nordstrom, Bloomingdale’s, Macy’s, Lord & Taylor and Old Navy.

Where to book it first class holidays – 0161 888 5606 The operator has a seven-night tour that visits Jamestown, Willamsburg and Charlottesville in Virginia, along with DC, Philadelphia and Gettysburg. Prices from £1,995pp.

It can tailor-make add-ons in the Blue Ride region. fcholidays .com 

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“Take the Amtrak train from Washington D.C. to the heart of Virginia’s Blue Ridge” Steve Hartridge, Selling Travel

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how to sell

Mexican beaches With the Caribbean Sea on one side and Pacific on the other, Mexico has enough whitesanded shores to satisfy sun worshipers and watersports fans alike, says Jessica Pook Why sell it From the powder soft sands of the Riviera Maya to the rocky dive hotspot of Los Cabos and back to Playa del Amore's totally surreal 'hidden beach' on the Marieta Islands, Mexican beaches are diverse and dramatic.

Visitors can opt for secluded spots such as Tulum, surrounded by jungle and ancient ruins, or the Vegas-style entertainment and high-end resorts of Cancun.

Mexico is a hub for aquatic life and home to the second largest barrier reef in the world, attracting turtles and whale sharks that bask in the warm waters year-round.

Who to sell to Adventurers will love Troncones, a threemile-long beach by the quiet fishing village of Guerrero. Hikers are drawn from the nearby Sierra Madre mountains while surfers can enjoy the swell and there's also horse riding on the sand.

For families, the safe and shallow waters of Playa La Boquilla are perfect for snorkelling, or head to Xpu Ha Beach for fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding and a volleyball match with the locals.

Couples will love the romantic setting of Cabo San Lucas or 'Lover's Beach', famous for its Land's End-style rock arch, or Yelapa, Puerto Vallarta, an off-the-radar beach only accessible by boat.

For dive enthusiasts it's worth noting that Playa Norte, Isla Mujeres, is home to a huge concentration of whale sharks.

CABO SAN LUCAS

What's new TUI will offer the only direct flight between the UK and Los Cabos from November 4, 2019 departing from Gatwick.

A Hard Rock Hotel is due to open May 2019 in Los Cabos. With 639 rooms, the extravagant hotel will keep guests entertained with eight restaurants, six pools with water slides, live entertainment, a Rock Spa, fitness centre and access to three nearby golf courses, along with its signature music memorabilia of course.

When to sell

SURFING IS A TOP DRAW

The prime time to visit Mexico is between December and February. Winter sun seekers should aim for January when beaches are less busy and sometimes empty. The wet season begins in the south in May and lasts until October, while hurricane season runs from June until December.

January to March are the best months to spot humpbacks and blue and grey whales as they migrate to Mexico's coast, and the hugely popular Day of the Dead celebration takes place on November 2 each year.

What do the experts say?

Managing Director of the Los Cabos Tourism Board, Rodrigo Esponda, reports a 7% increase in 2018 arrivals during the January to September period. Both tourists and locals regularly vote Los Cabos as the ‘safest destination in Mexico'. He says. "We take security very seriously and have a five point strategy in place which includes a surveillance system and a new marine base.

We also have a a hotel security committee.

"Even if you're not a sunbather, there's still plenty of appeal surrounding our beaches.

The Los Cabos area is home to great diving, caves and the Cabo Pulmo Natural Reserve.

And best of all there are no mosquitos!" 

BOOK IT WITH THOMAS COOK Thomas Cook offers a 14-night all inclusive stay at AM Resorts' Secrets Akumal Riviera Maya property from £2,424pp. Flights will depart from Manchester and airport transfers are included. The adult-only hotel is situated on the beachfront with the barrier reef just off-shore. thomascook.com

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eastern thailand

star rising

I

Eastern Thailand is close to Bangkok and offers local charm along with some of the country’s most unspoilt beaches. Laura Gelder explores

’m about to release a box of tiny parasitic wasps into the atmosphere and I’m not sure it’s really working up my appetite for a coconut snack.

But after the cloud of critters disperses our guide explains that we’ve just unleashed an organic pest control into the plantation, bugs which will lay their eggs in the larvae of the black-headed caterpillar – the enemy of coconuts here in eastern Thailand.

I’m touring the village of Ta Khian Tia on bike, pedalling past coconut plantations, taking in peaceful lakes and stopping to meet the village’s oldest resident, Auntie Cheaun, whose sun-crinkled smile makes up for her diminutive stature.

We stop for lunch at a local house, helping to pound the potent curry paste we’ll be eating with our chicken while we sip a bright purple drink made from butterfly pea.

I’m only a few miles north of Pattaya but it couldn’t be further away in terms of the scenery or atmosphere.

One of Thailand’s most built-up resorts, Pattaya has suffered from a less than salubrious reputation in the past because of its famed bar culture but is now a popular family destination thanks to its proximity to Bangkok’s international flights and a proliferation of child-friendly hotels and attractions.

A green future?

Pattaya is never going to be top of my Thai hotlist and no wonder, I’m not its target audience. But its location, an easy two-hour transfer from Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport, makes fly and flop an easier prospect than with Phuket or Koh Samui.

It’s also a jumping-off point for eastern Thailand, an undiscovered region which connects with Cambodia for those looking to explore further.

Next to Pattaya, the Bang Saray region has cultural activities like the impressive Buddha Mountain, its limestone face embossed with a 109-metre-high image of the Buddha and filled with mostly Thai tourists paying their respects.

Close-by, I stayed at U Pattaya (uhotelsresorts. com), a trendy boutique hotel with an infinity pool looking out over a deserted yellow beach and giving off a barefoot luxury vibe with a beachy driftwood style.

In Rayong province further east Pictured left: A beach food seller in Koh Samet

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eastern thailand

“I recommend the eastern coast for anyone that wants to see natural beauty and experience warm Thai hospitality. The Thailand Expert hub is a great way to learn more about this lesser-known region” Chris Lee, Head od Marketing, Tourism Authority of Thailand

we drove through colourful fishing ports and saw fledgling eco tourism projects amongst mangroves.

Then there’s the islands - locals’ favourite Koh Samet and the mountainous Elephant Island of Koh Chang - both offering beaches to rival any of the south’s.

Top experiences Fishing Village tour: Na Klua is the last bastion of Pattaya’s traditional fishing village culture. The Chinese community has clung onto its old wooden shop fronts with dusty unbranded goods piled up behind – making a marked contrast to Thailand’s omnipresent neon 7/11 stores!

Take a tour with Thailand Ecotourism and Adventure Travel Association or TEATA (teata. or.th) to visit the fish market and help fisherman craft an artificial habitat to tempt back depleted sealife.

Pristine beaches: Book in a few days’ beach time in Koh Samet to sample the white sands and relaxed vibes. Samed Resorts (samedresorts.com) owns seven properties on the island but five-star Paradee is its most luxurious.

Feast on fruit: Rayong is the fruit basket of Thailand and orchards offer a tour and buffet experience so travellers can see how they harvest native fruits like rambutan and mangosteen and sample the famously smelly durian.

Snorkelling heaven: There are 46 islands in the Koh Chang archipelago and boat tours take snorkellers to several less-developed ones for picnics and exploring.

What’s new Accommodation: Santhiya Koh Chang Resort (santhiya.com) is on-track to be fully refurbished by December and will add a new Pool Suite Water View room type (with a private swimming pool).

Elsewhere, DusitD2 Ao Nang (dusit.com) is scheduled to open December 15, 25 kilometres from Krabi International Airport, tucked away amidst lush green jungle on a hillside in downtown Ao Nang but walking distance to the beach.

Across the water in Phuket, Pamooko Pamooka will be the eighth property from Kata Group Resorts (katagroup.com).

Located at Kata Beach, the familyfriendly resort will have its own water park and 512 rooms and suites.

Attractions: Blue Tree Phuket Water Park will open some time next year and is billing itself as the island’s first international-standard, integrated water park and family entertainment centre.

Set around the signature Blue Tree Lagoon, the park will feature several retail

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and dining outlets, a waterpark, beach club, and health and fitness facilities.

Tourism talk “The Eastern Coast is very underrated. Koh Samet has to be one of the most beautiful islands in Thailand, with stunning beaches, jungle terrain

59

and a very laid back feel but with upmarket luxury resorts. Although very accessible from Bangkok, it’s one of those hidden gems that hasn’t yet received mass tourism.

“Further on there is Koh Chang which is the third biggest island in Thailand. It offers more lush jungle, but also nearby tiny little islands with isolated beaches lapped by blue water that you can visit on day trips.

“For tourists who like to see culture, Chantaburi is a pretty town of Sino-European style houses and an interesting history.”

Chris Lee, Head of Marketing, Tourism Authority of Thailand

Where to book it HAYES & JARVIS – 01293 839136 A 15-day Pattaya and Koh Samet multicentre tour is from £1,789pp based on a July 20 departure from Heathrow flying with Thai Airways, staying for seven nights room-only at the Intercontinental Pattaya and seven nights B&B in Paradee, Koh Samet - plus transfers. hayesandjarvis.co.uk 

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Opposite page, clockwise from top left: The Mangrove Research Centre, Rayong; cooking lunch in Ta Khian Tia village; a coconut plantation near Pattaya; Na Klua fishing village. This page: One of Koh Samet’s pristine beaches and a bedroom in Paradee Resort

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my journey

A jo󰇻󰇶󰈡󰈥y 󰇹o...

r 󰇧 󰈩 󰇳 a y M

󰇶 Pre󰇴󰇧󰈦󰈥 fo in 󰇺 a f󰇪󰈜󰇷 Mya󰇳󰈩󰇧r

M󰈠󰇧n󰇲󰈜󰈦 (Bur󰇲󰇧), 󰇹o t 󰈤󰇯 󰇽󰇮 a 󰈣n 󰈩 󰇮󰇷 ur 󰇺󰈣 󰈥r󰇷 󰈤us󰇹󰇧󰇯󰈡ab󰇰󰇪 s󰈛󰇧󰇵󰈥s o󰇳 󰇮󰇺s 󰇷󰇯󰈨e 󰇳󰈨 la 󰈠 󰇲 󰇪󰈜 Car󰈢󰇰󰇯󰈡e Ph󰇮󰇰󰇱󰇯p󰇷 󰈨is󰈛󰈢󰇾 󰈨r 󰈧 an 󰈤 󰈜󰇰 y, wi󰇰󰈨l󰇮󰈇󰈥, fe󰇷󰇺󰇮v a c󰈢󰇼󰇳󰇺r󰈂 󰈟it󰇬 󰇭󰇮s󰇹󰈣󰈦

I

n the days when Mynamar was known as Burma, George Orwell said that beauty is meaningless until it is shared. So...

They’re making rice wine in the picturesque village as a man wanders past with a buffalo on a string. We cross the stream on a teak plank and hike on the red-earth track into a spectacular landscape of maize, soya and fluorescent paddy fields —a patchwork of red and green that stretches into the rolling hills.

It is August, the so-called green season and a perfect time to visit. There are enormous butterflies, green parrots and a white stupa atop a hill under a cotton-wool cloud. The peace is disturbed only by the occasional motorbike, driven by a local with no helmet but sporting a beaming smile.

We’re near Hsipaw —pronounced ‘tea-paw’ —in Shan State in northern Myanmar. When we reach the village of Pankam (its welcome sign is in Burmese, Shan and English) we sit on the floor in a wooden house on stilts for lunch – a simple and Car󰈢󰇰󰇯󰈡e’s 󰈧a󰇻󰈪 delicious meal of tofu and beansprout soup and h󰇹󰈥󰈦s, An󰈂a 󰇧󰈡d E󰇰󰇱a, little bowls of ginger leaves, taro stem and bamboo wa󰇷󰇭󰇮n󰇫 shoots provided by our Palaung (which means el󰇪󰇴󰇭󰈜n󰇹󰈤 in K󰇧 󰇰󰈜󰈟 ‘dragon men’) tribe hosts.

We’re on a 21-day bespoke family trip that includes the magical must-sees of Myanmar, plus off-grid travel and sprinklings of the new…let’s Sta󰈂󰇮󰈡g 󰇯󰇳 call it fairy dust.

Y a 󰈡 g 󰈢 󰇳’s E󰈀󰈝el󰇷 ne󰇿 󰇺󰇮p-to 󰇮󰈣󰈦, t Yes, there’s Yangon with its 󰇴󰇭 b󰈂 󰈩on󰈫󰈤 󰈢t󰈥󰇰 ….. m󰈂 󰇩le󰇷󰈤󰇮n󰇫 󰇬e 󰈝󰇮t󰈂’s wondrous gilded Shwedagon 󰇧t 󰈝 Hik󰇮󰇳󰈪 󰈜m 󰇹󰇭󰈥 Sh󰇿e󰈨󰇧g󰈣󰇳 Pa 󰈥re󰇲󰈢󰈡y Pagoda, but we also enjoy an exclusive tour of the ginormous ar󰈢󰇼󰇳󰈨 H o󰇳󰈪 s󰇴󰇪󰈝t󰈜󰈛u󰇱󰇧r 󰇰󰈜󰈡 󰈪󰈢d󰈜….. s Secretariat, closed since the of P󰇧󰇰󰈜u󰈡g i󰇴󰇧󰈟 󰈜n󰈧 e󰇧󰇺󰇯n󰇫 i󰈡 d󰇷󰈝ap󰇪 t󰇬 󰇹 1960s and being renovated as a co󰇰󰈢󰈡󰇯al 󰈇󰈢 󰈦󰇮b󰈥󰇷󰇵e󰈢p󰇰󰈥….. Fol󰇰󰈢 󰇪 󰇭󰈣me 󰈣󰇺s󰇹e󰇵s 󰈢󰈇 museum and cultural centre. 󰈟󰇯n󰇫 󰇺he fa󰇹󰇭󰇪r, w󰇬 󰈩y 󰇬u󰈤b󰇧󰇳 Yes, we cruise down o󰈟 󰈨’s W󰈖I󰈎.....A 󰇧s 󰇷󰇺󰈜ti󰈢󰇳󰈥󰈨 in B󰇻󰇶 󰇰a󰇺󰇪 the mighty Irrawaddy 󰈩󰈜 in fo󰈢󰈧󰇯e 󰇺󰈢󰇼 River - aboard the smart r o󰈇

Ayeyarwady Discovery. And yes, there’s unmissable Bagan, with its 3,000-plus temples. But we’re also taken to renowned artist Maung Thiha’s newlyrelocated artists’ colony, and visit empty religious sites by moonlight, where we taste temple foods like quails eggs in batter baskets served on Myanmar’s traditional lacquerware dishes.

The 󰇿󰇧󰈠 t󰈣 Ma󰇳󰈨󰇧l󰈜󰈂 We visit historic Mandalay, with its throngs genuflecting at the golden Mahamuni Pagoda and we follow the Burmese road rarely travelled too – some places only opened up to tourists recently.

In Loikaw, in tiny Kayah State, we stay in the cool and contemporary Loikaw Lodge before hiking to the nearby longnecked Kayan tribespeople (each of them wear 28 voice-throttling neck-rings). In these parts, that’s apparently the definition of real beauty.

Then there’s our Kayah village walk, with tribeswomen villagers wearing lacquer knee hoops, and an ox cart visit to the totem poles, nat (spirit) shrine and shamans telling fortunes by the way the chicken bones fall.

And Loikaw’s Poe Pa Yong monastery where 380

The󰇶󰇪 ar󰇪 󰈥󰇳󰈨le󰇷󰈤 m󰇧󰇫󰇯󰈝al mo󰇲󰇪󰈡t󰇷 󰈜󰈡d e󰇳󰈢󰇼󰈪h fa󰇮󰇶󰈠 d󰇼󰇷󰇺 to 󰇨󰇻󰇯󰇱d a pa󰇫󰈢󰈨󰈜

M󰈘 󰉃AG 󰈎󰈉󰈷󰉂 MO 󰉄󰈺

󰉅T󰉍

B󰇧󰈪󰈜n

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my journey

61

Vi󰇪w 󰈣󰇽e󰈦 t󰇬󰇪 S󰇭󰈜n Mo󰇻n󰇹󰈜i󰈡s 󰈧󰇻󰈦󰇯n󰇫 a t󰇶e󰈬 󰇮n H󰇷󰇯󰇵aw

󰈦󰇯n󰇫 󰈜n 󰇿e󰇧 󰈩 󰈢 󰇿 s e 󰈡 t󰇶󰇯󰇩 l󰇪󰇷 A Kay󰇹󰇧 󰈥r 󰈫󰈡e󰇪󰈥 ba󰇳󰈪 󰇻 󰈚 󰈛 la

betel-nut-red robed monks, aged from nine to 52, file silently into the dining hall for what is their final meal of the day - at 10.30. Cross-legged and barefoot on the floor at low tables, their heads bowed and hands prayerful, they chant. The sound fills both the room and my heart. Then they eat in mindful silence.

There’s more fairy dust. We love our longtail boat ride to the seldom-visited Samkar, chugging over the flooded paddy fields among purple water hyacinths while children wave from the riverbanks and the legoarsmen glide across the water with their rat catcher dogs sitting on the stern.

A ‘le󰇫 󰈦󰈢w󰈥󰇶’ Then visiting Samkar’s stupa complexes, on I󰇳󰇱󰇪 L󰈜ke some with bamboo scaffolding, and royal pavilions; and staying in Inle Sanctuary boutique hotel, on a pier on stilts above the water, and waking up to fishermen floating past our window.

At Phaya Taung Monastery (and orphanage and school), we meet U Thu Wunna, one of the country’s most famous monks. He offers us insights, hilarity and sweet pineapple. We find peace, joy and football fanaticism at an orphanage. Who would have thought?

I also enjoy our visit to the colonial hill station of Kalaw, with its half-timbered architecture, manicured golf course and the 1903-built Heritage Hotel where we discover a vast selection of gin, plus hunting trophies hanging proudly on the wall.

Ele󰇴󰇭󰇧n󰇹󰈤 󰈜n󰈧 󰈩ah󰈢󰇼󰇹󰈤

Mar󰈫󰇪󰇺 d󰈜󰈂 󰈨u r󰇮󰇳󰈪 ‘t󰇶o󰇵󰇮c󰈜󰇰 f󰇶u󰇮󰇺’ se󰇧󰇷󰈣󰈡 in A󰇻󰇫󰇼󰈤t

Gor󰇹󰇪󰇯󰈬 Vi󰇧d󰇼󰈛󰇺 , se󰇪󰇳 on 󰈢󰇳󰈥 o󰈆 t󰇬󰇪 󰈟 󰈣r󰇰󰈨’s be󰇷󰇺 t󰇶󰇧󰇯󰈡 ri󰈧󰇪 󰈤

During an unforgettable day at the nearby Green Hill Valley elephant sanctuary, we learn about ‘elephant activism’, how to soothe a paranoid elephant and the benefits it accrues from wallowing in mud. Wearing mahout trousers, we bathe afterwards with an elephant and wash her with acacia bark, a natural shampoo.

I’ll never forget Mynamar’s generous, friendly and hospitable people, or our gentle guides and the tribespeople who think they’re descended from dragons, shamans and alchemists.

Nor the ladies with their thanaka-painted faces and conical hats proffering cups of green tea.

There are endless magical moments – and enough fairy dust to build a sacred pagoda.

O󰉇󰉀 󰈾T󰇳󰇮󰈤󰈥d 󰇨󰈠 󰈈 󰉈 T a W󰈍E󰉋󰈺 t󰇶i󰇵 w󰇧󰇷 󰈣󰈦g 󰇰, an󰈧

ve 󰇯󰇰󰈠 da󰈂 󰈆󰇧m 󰉄󰈯, Khi󰇶󰇮 󰈓󰈦󰈜 󰈟󰈢r󰈫󰈤 1 2 ’s e D Car󰈢󰇰󰇯󰈡 a󰇨󰇱󰇪 t󰈣u󰇶󰇮󰈤m . Khi󰇶󰇮 󰈓󰈦󰈜ve󰇰 ma󰈧󰇪 su󰇷󰇺󰇧󰇯n 󰈣u󰈡d $5,000p󰇴 󰇹o 󰈢ff󰈥󰈦 ta󰇮󰇰󰈣󰈦- 󰇻r󰇷 o co󰇷󰇺s 󰇧󰇶 o󰇻󰇶 󰈣󰇵er󰇧󰇹󰈣󰈦s y󰇷, pe󰇶󰈤󰈢n󰈜󰇰 󰇺 a󰇶. 󰈜 t 󰈨 m 󰇰󰇮 K 󰈡 o U 󰈜 󰇹󰇮󰇾󰈥 h 󰈝t: k󰇬i󰈦󰇮m󰈂 󰇲 wi󰇹󰇭 󰇧 󰈦󰇯p󰇷, ac o lu󰈀󰇻󰈦y 󰇹 󰈥󰇺 to󰇻󰇶󰈤. Con󰇹 d󰇶󰇮󰈜󰈡@k󰇬i󰈦󰇮.c 󰇫 a d o ; 󰇻 c 5 󰇮. 󰇩 i󰈦 󰇲 -1 an󰈧 50 488 󰇮󰈥󰇰󰈤: ed󰇿󰇮󰈡@k󰇬 8 7 0 ; co󰇲 Br Ed󰇿i󰈡 or M󰈊

󰈜󰈡d 󰈜 󰇺ho󰇻󰇷 󰈤 in One 󰈢󰈇 󰈩p󰇰󰈥 󰇬i󰈡g 󰇹󰇪 as󰇹󰈢󰈡󰇯s ag󰇧󰇳 B

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December 2018

VISIT USA NEWS T H IS M O N T H ' S TO P S TOR I ES FROM V I SI T U SA' S MEMBERS • V I SI T U SA. O RG.UK

New York's pride

WORLDPRIDE will be held in New York City from June 1-30 2019, the first time in its 20-year history the event will head to the U.S. A

Easy R ider

50th ann iversary tour

Open roads are an easy sell

NEXT year marks the 50th anniversary of a movie that inspired generations of motorcycle riders – and Complete North America has two tours of the roads travelled in that screen classic.

Easy Rider saw Peter Fonda as Wyatt and Dennis Hopper as Billy move from Los Angeles to New Orleans, in the process making the freedom of America’s open road synonymous with motorcycle riding.

Complete North America's two 14-night Easy Rider guided motorcycle tours will depart May 22 and September 18, 2019. Riders will pick up their Eagle Rider bikes in Los Angeles and drive the 292 miles to Death Valley. Other stops featured in the movie will include Flagstaff, Monument Valley, Wupatki National Monument, Durango, Taos, Abilene, Lake Charles and New Orleans. Prices start from £3,954pp, including flights and accommodation. completenorthamerica.com

“The new 2019 Visit USA Travel Planner is designed to help agents book their clients the perfect tailormade holiday" Tracey Spuyman CEO, Visit USA (UK)

key theme will be the 50th anniversary of the Stonewall uprising in the city, said to be the moment the modern gay rights movement was born.

nycgo.com

Marriott makeover

JW Marriott has completed a huge renovation of its JW Marriott New Orleans. All 494

guestrooms, seven suites and the public places have been transformed. The room changes include new 55-inch HD TVs, equipped with internet-based technology and applications. The hotel is located in the city's French Quarter.

marriott.com

Walking on the moon FLAGSTAFF, Arizona, will next year commemorate the 50th anniversary of the first moon landing. A series of events, at several city facilities, will highlight the fact that Neil Armstrong, who stepped onto the moon on July 20 1969, and his fellow Apollo astronauts were trained in Flagstaff.

flagstaffarizona.org

THE USA in brief...

GRAND ANNIVERSARIES Canyon National Park will mark turning 100 in 2019 with a yearlong calendar of special events. The UNESCO World Heritage Site, which welcomes around six million domestic and international visitors each year, will mark its ‘official birthday’ on February 26 with a day of events including music, lectures, food and more. visitarizona.com

SEAWORLD San Diego expects to unveil its allnew Tidal Twister roller coaster in May 2019.

Described as a duelling coaster, the ‘horizontal ride’ will see two trains, each holding 16 passengers, accelerating to 30 miles an hour as they twist and bank along a figure-8 track that will feature a Zero-G roll at the centre. seaworldcalifornia.co.uk ATTRACTIONS

MARCH 2019 will see the reopening of the Washington Monument, the capital's can't-miss 169-metrehigh obelisk that stands tall over the National Mall. Built to commemorate first president, George Washington, the monument has had a $10.8 million makeover and will open with a new, faster elevator and a refreshed visitor experience. capitolregionusa.org SITES

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

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

MEMBERS' SPOTLIGHT FILM BUFFS TRAIL IN LOUISIANA LOUISIANA has launched a new Film Trail for locationspotting visitors. Maps and other information are intended to guide movie buffs to the locations that appeared in films such as 12 Years a Slave, Bonnie and Clyde, A Streetcar Named Desire, Django Unchained and many others louisiana.travel com/film

SEATTLE GETS RISE FROM FLIGHTS FIVE airlines will offer nonstop options to Seattle in 2019.

Virgin Atlantic and British Airways will have daily flights from Heathrow, Norwegian four weekly flights from Gatwick, Thomas Cook three a week, and Aer Lingus four a week from Dublin. seattlewashington stateuk.co.uk

introducing...

Silversea Cruises ERIN JOHNSON MARKETING DIRECTOR, UK S po rt i ng chan

How long has Silversea been a Visit USA member?

ce

We joined in 2017.

Las Vegas a real sports

LAS Vegas is set to become one of the USA’s leading cities for sports fans. For decades, the city lacked a professional sports team to call its own but last year ice hockey’s newest expansion team, the Vegas Golden Knights, arrived in the city – and made it all the way to the Stanley Cup finals. They play at the T-Mobile Arena on The Strip.

The city also has 'minor league' soccer and women's basketball teams, but the move that is most exciting the city’s sports fans is the forthcoming arrival of the NFL’s (American Football) Raiders, who will move from Oakland and take up residency in a brand-new stadium – The Las Vegas Stadium – on The Strip in 2020.

Steve Hill, CEO of the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority said: “We have become a real sports city now. The next steps after the NFL will be to attract major league baseball and basketball teams.

"As visitation numbers continue to increase, sports tourism will become a key element to our attractions mix,” he added. visitlasvegas.com

Delta's double Scotch

DELTA Air Lines is to double its flights from Edinburgh next summer by adding a new service to Boston. Effective May 24, the seasonal flight will complement the airline’s existing daily service to New York-JFK. The flight will leave Edinburgh at 10.55, arriving into Boston at 13.02. The return flight will leave Boston at 22.15, arriving into Edinburgh at 09.25.

Norwegian to Tampa

NORWEGIAN has started flying a twice-weekly service between Gatwick and Tampa International Airport.

Norwegian also now has a daily service to Fort Lauderdale, up from three flights a week, and five weekly flights to Orlando, up from three a week, a total of 14 flights a week to the Sunshine State. norwegian.com/uk

What are the main benefits of being in the Association?

Visit USA provides great exposure to both members of the travel trade and consumers looking for information about cruise holidays around the American continent.

Tell us a little about your U.S. cruise programme Silversea offers a number of wonderful voyages every year, both on its classic (mainstream) and expedition fleets, visiting iconic and bucket list destinations such as Alaska, the West Coast and New England.

Why is cruising a great way to explore the U.S.?

The USA has some of some of the most incredible marine environments in the world along its coasts, and there's always plenty of fabulous and fascinating scenery to see on the way.

Cruising offers travellers a different perspective of the wonders of the continent, as well as incredible encounters with marine mammals such as humpback whales in Alaska, sea otters, orcas and many others.

Cruising is also a great way to visit multiple destinations on a single trip. silversea.com

delta.com

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

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traveluni.com

GDS | TRAINING | REWARDS

Training, competitions, events December 2018

THIS MONTH'S TOP STORIES

Festive details INCENTIVE

Quick Quiz Are you a rail travel Expert?

1. Customers can book Railbookers or Amtrak holidays 18 months in advance.

TRUE / FALSE

Hot Incentive

Win a trip to Fiji in 2019!

2. Railbookers can book rail holidays before tickets are released to the public.

TRUE / FALSE

Matai Fiji programme

matai.fiji.travel

caribbeanboutiquehotels.co.uk

Fam-tastic Thailand INCENTIVE

AGENTS can win a fam trip place with Tourism Thailand and Thai Airways. The lucky winner will relax on a beach in Krabi, explore Phuket and dine with locals in Bangkok. To be in with a chance of winning the prize, agents must complete the eight modules on the Thailand Expert training course by December 31.

And don't forget to register for the Amazing Thailand Roadshow running throughout 2019 at locations across the UK. Email marketing@tourismthailand. co.uk to register.



thailandexpert.co.uk railtravelexperts.com

Answers: 1: True 2: True

TOURISM FIJI is offering travel agents the chance to win a place on a fam trip to Fiji in Spring 2019.

To win, agents need to complete the Fiji online training programme, Matai, by December 31. Those who have already completed the programme can still enter by completing the refresher course by the same date or by making a booking and logging it on the Matai site by February 28.

The fam trip will showcase the island's accommodation and experiences as well as giving agents a chance to demonstrate their social media skills by posting about how much they've fallen in love with the Pacific island to win prizes.

ESSENTIAL DETAIL is offering a bumper Christmas prize including chocolates from Hotel Chocolat, Prosecco, a copy of classic novel Jamaica Inn, a candle, a photo frame and a travel coffee mug.

There can only be one winner and to be in with a chance, agents must sign up and complete the Caribbean Boutique Hotels online training by December 19.

Complete five modules to become an Essential Detail Top Agent.



traveluni.com

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Training courses to help travel agents and advisers sell more!

Train with Brainz

COURSE LIST

NEWS

BOURNE LEISURE is launching a set of interactive online training courses and modules for 2019. The 'Train with Brainz' modules relate to Bournes' three brands; Butlin's, Haven and Warner Leisure Hotels.

To tie in with the launch of the new modules, agents completing the training in full by December 31 will be entered into a draw to win one of three prizes: a threeto four-night Butlin's family break, a family break with Haven or a three- to four-night break for two adults at Warner Leisure Hotels.

To be in with a chance, agents must register bookings at bourneleisuresales.co.uk. bourneexpert.co.uk

News to use

Goa Experience adds Kerala

Serenity Holidays I The Goa Experience

GDS discounts OFFER

AS ANY good travel professional knows, having GDS skills will not only improve your skill set, but give you increased career potential in the travel industry. Travel Uni and GDS Genie have teamed up to offer a 25% discount on all courses purchased in December. The training provides courses in three of the main GDS systems; Sabre, Galileo and Amadeus. Agents undertaking the training can study at home and in their own time, with resources available on email, webchat and telephone along the way. GDS channels are used worldwide to book flights, hotels and car hire. traveluni.com/gds-training

Working in partnership

THE GOA EXPERIENCE has launched a selection of holidays in the southern Indian state of Kerala. The operator has added eight new properties, and Kerala holidays can be booked as add-ons to a holiday in Goa or as a standalone trip via the operator.

Highlights include clifftop spa hotel Niraamaya Retreats Surya Samudra Trivandrum, with seven-night breaks available from £1,699pp.

The operator also offers the Kerala Highlights private guided tour, incorporating a night on the backwaters, an exploration of the historical city of Cochin and guided treks and boat rides through Periyar National Park. The seven-night package is from £1,479pp.

A-Z of available courses ABTA Alaska Amtrak Vacations Anguilla Antigua & Barbuda Aruba Beaches Resorts Boucan Hotel Chocolat Bourne Leisure Butlins Centara Hotels & Resorts Cirque de Soleile Corsican | Sardinian Places Costa Rica Cruise Adviser Elegant Hotels Essential Detail Flanders Fort Myers & Sanibel GDS Haven Hotels Hawaii Heritage Resort Jerusalem Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts Las Vegas Macao Malaysia Melia Hotels & Resorts New York city New York state Namibia Newmarket Holidays Ontario Qatar Railbookers SAGA Saint Lucia Sandals Resorts Serenity Holidays Seychelles Simon Malls Solus St Kitts Thailand TIPTO Turks & Caicos US Airtours Veranda Resorts Virgin Limited Edition Voyages SNCF Warner Leisure Hotels Windjammer Landing Hotel traveluni.com

training.serenity.co.uk powered by

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traveluni.com

GDS | TRAINING | REWARDS

minds

master

December is the most popular time for agents to get stuck into online training as they gear up for the New Year. Debbie Ward explains why this is the time to learn how to earn

O

nline training courses not only increase product knowledge but also can lead to preferred status for educationals, client referrals, discounts and more.

Quite simply, agents who are not enrolled are missing out.

“The boom happens in the first three weeks of December. The high street travel agencies don’t see the footfall as people are Christmas shopping and good agents are getting ready for the peaks of January and February,” explains Chris May, Managing Director of Equator Online Training and Travel Uni. He adds that Equator sees two or three times the amount of people signing up in December compared to other months.

Tourist boards, hotels, rail companies, attractions and tour operators are

represented across its online training platform, available free to agents.

Las Vegas, New York, Malaysia, Thailand and Jumeirah are among Travel Uni’s most popular courses. A second provider, Online Travel Training (OTT), highlights themes like Adventure, Aviation and LGBT across courses including Mauritius, Mexico, Italy, Riviera and Collette.

In common with its partners ABTA and TIPTO, Equator/Travel Uni believes training helps agents to demonstrate the value of their service to clients.

“We want people to say ‘I’m going to see my travel professional’, not ‘my travel agent,’” says May. He adds: “There’s far too much ‘fake news’ out there; there’s an avalanche of information and even Trip Advisor is now taken with a pinch of salt.

“People trust people, but to gain that trust agents have got to prove they know what they are talking about.”

Finding Time The average online course takes 90 mins to complete and is typically worked on in 20–30 minute sessions.

Agents have different strategies for taking time out for training, some threading it between clients, over coffee breaks, commutes, etc, ‘bookmarking’ their place, others allocating set hours.

And 22% of agents now complete Travel Uni courses on their mobiles.

“Some high street agencies actually forbid training during work hours, while others will say “in gaps in time this is what we’d like you to achieve”, explains May. He adds that agents shouldn’t be

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Training courses to help travel agents and advisers sell more!

overwhelmed, as online training is about remembering USPs: “I always say, if you can remember six key points about the product then you know what sets them apart.”

Benefits and perks

completed several online courses on North America and Asia, won a Canada break thanks to a training course.

“I was rewarded with a wonderful trip to Ontario for two, for seven nights, with flights, accommodation and tours… and on the back of my trip I secured a booking to Ontario worth over £7,000,” he says.

He also appreciates getting discounted rail fares he’s able to pass onto clients since completing the Voyages-sncf course.

Agents report being more confident upselling once they’ve completed training.

May says: “Those who know more about a destination sell a higher-value product with add-ons and upgrades.

“For instance, Sandals agents generally New courses upsell to a deluxe room or suite when they Among new sign-ups, Travel Uni has understand what the differences are, and recently added Cirque du Soliel – helping more agents sell the butler service.” agents match the right show to the right Some tourist boards and suppliers client. US-based Simon Malls is also offer prize draws for flight tickets, a new client. The company’s holidays and Champagne, Agents GDS training, the only chocolate and vouchers, or who change training with a charge, has let agents earn vouchers jobs in travel are 25% off during December. per booking once qualified.

more attractive to

Others give them a place at employers with the head of the queue for The future online training professional opportunities.

Traditionally online courses under their “Naturally you get more involve reading modules belts support from a supplier or then completing a quiz as tourist board, you get invited to an aid memoir. Now, there are functions, on fam trips and get discounted webinars and more courses are featuring rates,” says May. video content. For instance, St Lucia’s Sandals, Jumeirah, Thailand and Australia Windjammer Landing, which has over 5,000 are among those who foster relationships training course users worldwide, features a with agents who have completed their staff member giving a video walk through training. Alaska, Jumeirah and others list rooms, the beach and more. qualified agents on their consumer sites, The Cayman Islands and OTT recently so they come up in a postcode search of offered a training session via Facebook Live. the nearest experts.

Equator/Travel Uni will be introducing And those who change jobs within travel podcasts in the first quarter of the new are more attractive to future employers if year, to help agents learn on the move. they have several training courses under Interactive videos with questions built their belt. within them will also become more Travel Counsellor Daryl Glean, who has common. 

Working in partnership

AGENT INTERVIEW

Bruce Cairns Travel Counsellor

How many courses have you completed?

Well over 30. I find some easier than others but I always learn something.

I feel it’s part of my role to always be developing my product knowledge, which I can then use to help clients.

Has it helped with sales?

It has helped me grow my client base and get referrals. When you’re a specialist people do recommend you. This has been especially true for cruise (I’m a CLIA master), the U.S., Canada and Australia.

What perks have you gained?

There’s satisfaction in completing the course and receiving a certificate to share. Some offer the odd prize but that’s not really the incentive.

Some, such as the Australia Aussie Specialist course, link training to the opportunity to go on fam trips, which I still think is the best, most comprehensive destination training.

How do you make time to train?

I’ve been in the business nearly 40 years and the current training opportunities are the best they’ve ever been. So, I can always make time. I target each month to broaden my product knowledge. I believe you have to keep developing as our business and clients become more knowledgeable and demanding.

Do you tell clients about your online training?

Yes, I do. I also share my certificates on social media.

Plus, depending on the enquiry, I’ll use different signatures that highlight my various specialisms.

I love getting an enquiry for a place I’ve just studied up on, and being able to use my new-found knowledge.

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my trip to... the u.s. virgin islands

island time

Lauren Jarvis takes a hop around the U.S. Virgin Islands of St Thomas, St John and St Croix and discovers paradise for foodies, history buffs and nature lovers alike

T

urtles are rising and falling around me as I lift my face from the water and see my guide on a distant white strip of sand beckoning me back to shore.

I’ve lost track of time, swimming side-byside with some of the oldest species on the planet in a dazzling turquoise sea.

Another surfaces barely a metre away and I hear it draw air, before a sweep of its fins powers it back to the depths, and I reluctantly snorkel back to land.

We’ve come by kayak to explore the Virgin Islands National Park, a playground for hawksbill and green turtles – and more rarely, leatherbacks – which occupies twothirds of the Caribbean isle of St John.

Paddling these tranquil seas on a sundrenched day with Virgin Island Eco Tours (viecotours.com), it’s hard to imagine that just over a year ago category five Hurricane Irma was rampaging across St Thomas and St John, followed by a second storm, Maria, which shook St Croix two weeks later.

Unsurprisingly, tourism to the United

States Virgin Islands (USVI) plummeted in the aftermath as cruise lines had no choice but to steer clear and many of the islands’ premier hotels closed to repair and rebuild.

But concerted government, aid agency and industry efforts, coupled with the communities’ resilience and determination, have seen the USVI bounce back.

Airports, sea ports and beaches are all open, 95% of storm debris has been cleared, most of the restaurants are back in business, and around half of all hotels and resorts are now welcoming guests.

Delta Airlines is increasing flights into St Croix for the holiday season, while American Airlines, JetBlue Airways, Spirit Airlines and United Airlines are all flying to the USVI.

Great explorers

Originally inhabited by the Arawak, Ciboney and Carib people, Christopher Columbus put this spectacular cluster of islands in the Lesser Antilles on the map, naming them after his voyage of 1493 in honour of Saint Ursula and her virgin followers.

The Danish were first to colonise in the 17th century, with sugar cane

plantations worked by slaves driving the economy until abolition in 1848, and its deep harbour securing St Thomas’ place on the West Indies trading route.

Sold to the U.S. in 1917 for $25 million in gold, tourism is now the islands’ main draw, with their natural Caribbean beauty, strong local culture and chequered colonial history – the French, Spanish, Dutch and British were here too – combining to offer a perfect beach escape with just the right amount of action, history and spice.

Where to stay

Margaritaville Vacation Club

(margaritavillevacationclub.com) on Water Bay

is home for my stay on St Thomas: Wyndhams’ tropical-themed beach resort, inspired by U.S. country singer, Jimmy Buffet’s, hit record, ‘Margaritaville’.

Unless Captain Jack Sparrow himself sashayed into the bar, it really couldn’t be any more Caribbean. Pastel-coloured villas lie under swaying coconut palms while calypso music wafts on the breeze, and the rooms have a beach vibe with day-dreamy slogans and a margarita maker adding a fun, unique touch.

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my trip to... the u.s. virgin islands

My beach buddies and I take our DIY drinks to the hot tub and soak for 20 minutes, buffeted by bubbles under a clear, cobalt blue sky. “It’s a sweet, sweet life living by the salty sea…“, as Jimmy would say.

On the hoof

A walking tour of the territory’s capital, Charlotte Amalie, with Felipe Ayala from the Historic Preservation Commission of St. Thomas, (+1 340 513 8604), leads us through downtown’s Historic District with its colonial, yellow-brick houses to the unmissable 17th-century Fort Christian. The oldest building on St John, it’s been a prison, church, school and police station, and since 1977, a U.S. National Historic Landmark.

The islanders love their food, and it’s well worth venturing outside of the resorts

to try some of the local restaurants. Be warned: you may be in the Caribbean, but the portions are definitely all USA! On St Thomas, Rock Stone Grille at the Tillett Gardens Centre for the Arts (tillettgardens.com) offers dinner under the stars in a pretty garden, while Gladys’ Cafe (gladyscafe.com), housed in a historic building in the Royal Dane Mall in Charlotte Amalie is an island institution.

Over on St John, cool Caribbean cantina, Gringo’s, serves excellent Mexican and margaritas at boutique mall, Mongoose Junction (mongoosejunctionstjohn.com), as palm trees sway on the beach beyond.

Getting around

While a few ships dock at the territory’s largest island, St Croix, St Thomas provides the main port of call for cruise liners in the USVI, while a ferry system whisks visitors from St Thomas to St John (vinow.com). Seaplanes operated by Seaborn Airlines (seaborneairlines.com) connect St Thomas and St Croix and we take to the skies for an exciting 25-minute flight to St Croix and a stay at The Buccaneer (thebuccaneer.com).

Main picture: Harbour views, St Thomas. This page, clockwise from top left: Cruzan Rum Distillery; at the airport; kayaking, Virgin Islands National Park; Danish-style Fort Christian, Saint Thomas, Sugar Mill, St John

Built in the 17th century, the Caribbean’s longest-running resort occupies a stunning spot with access to three sweeping stretches of sand where we kayak, paddle board, snorkel and sunbathe.

Before we leave, we watch the sunrise from the Millennium Monument at Point Udall, the easternmost tip of the United States. And as the trade winds gently blow feathery clouds across a gold and powderpink sky, the islands’ future looks bright. 

69

Top tips All aboard for adventure Unleash your inner pirate on a Captain Big Beard catamaran cruise to Buck Island Reef National Monument. Tours depart from Christiansted on St Croix with snorkelling, a beach BBQ and rum punch. bigbeards.com

Explore history Take time to wander St Croix, discover the secrets of Fort Christiansvaern and learn about the U.S. Virgin Islands’ colonial past. American Founding Father, Alexander Hamilton – of Hamilton: An American Musical fame – grew up on the island. Follow his journey from impoverished orphan to first secretary to the U.S. Treasury on a tour with Crucian Heritage and Nature Tourism CHANT. chant.org

Say cheers Visit the 250-year-old Cruzan Rum Distillery in historic Frederiksted on St Croix to watch how the Caribbean’s synonymous drink is made, before having a tasting in the ‘Don’t Hurry’ bar. cruzanrum.com

The verdict With white-sand beaches, fantastic food, a sprinkling of historical treasures and a host of natural wonders, the U.S. Virgin Islands have bounced back from last year’s hurricanes, and are once more the perfect place for a tropical, laid-back escape.

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A DV E R T OR IA L

The 󰇬󰇮󰈪h󰇰󰇯󰈪h󰇹󰈤 of

The Hudson Valley’s Dutchess County Enjoy breathtaking vistas, fascinating historical and cultural sites, and artisanal food and wine offerings around 90 minutes from New York City

Dia:Beacon Explore the wonders of modern art in a revitalized former Nabisco factory on the banks of the Hudson River. At Dia:Beacon you can find collections from the 1960s to the present, as well as special exhibitions, new commissions, and educational programmes. diaart.org

Home of Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic Site Discover historic “Springwood”, the former home of Franklin D. Roosevelt. Here you can learn about the life of the only U.S. President elected to four terms. The grounds also house the FDR Presidential Library & Museum. A visit to Hyde Park can also include Eleanor Roosevelt’s Val-Kill Cottage, and the Vanderbilt Mansion National Historic Site. nps.gov/hofr

The Culinary Institute of America Visitors are welcome at the premier college for culinary arts, baking and pastry arts, and culinary science. Enjoy the breathtaking landscape and experience a variety of cuisines at on-campus restaurants: The Bocuse, Ristorante Caterina de’Medici, American Bounty, Tavern at American Bounty and Apple Pie Bakery Café. ciachef.edu/cia-new-york

The Walkway Over the Hudson This former railroad bridge connecting Highland and Poughkeepsie, NY is the longest elevated pedestrian bridge in the world. Catch a bird’s eye view of the majestic Hudson River and Catskill Mountains by walking, jogging, cycling or rollerblading its 1.26-mile span that stands 212 feet above the water. walkway.org

“Discover historic Springwood, the former home of Franklin D. Roosevelt, and learn about the life of the only U.S. President elected to four terms”

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T H E T R A VE L N E WS THAT R E ALLY M ATTE R S

M AL AY S I A: BOUNCING BACK ONTO THE TOURISM STAGE IN 2019

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C H E C K I NG OU T: HOTELS IN BOSTON AND DORSET

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C AR I B B E AN N EW S OPENINGS, OFFERS & MORE

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S HOW R E P OR T CLIA RIVER CRUISE CONFERENCE

GET ONLINE – READ ALL OUR MAGAZINES AND CHECK OUT OUR DAILY SELLING TIPS AT SELLINGTRAVEL.CO.UK

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the review

Premier Holidays embraces winter A NEW Canada brochure from Premier Holidays sees the inclusion of skiing and winter experiences to help boost off-season travel.

The new brochure features 15 new hotels and six new tours after the operator reported a surge in bookings to Canada this year, with a 21% increase in 2018 bookings year-on-year and sales up significantly for 2019.

Skiing packages start from £229pp for seven days’ ski hire at Whistler.

Winter activities include ice climbing from £167pp, a snowshoe tour from £59pp and sleigh rides from £27pp.

More space is given to selfdrive holidays, with both car and motorhome options.

Also new is a Glacier Bay National Park Cruise from £3,899pp. trade.premierholidays.co.uk

‘So Sri Lanka’ unveiled

BY STEVE HARTRIDGE

THE SRI Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB) unveiled its new brand identity during World Travel Market.

The ‘So Sri Lanka’ tagline, chosen to showcase that the country is ‘more than just a destination; it is a feeling,’ marks a fresh approach to destination marketing, Vasantha Senanayake, Minister of Tourism and Wildlife, said: “No one word can describe Sri Lanka, but one word as short and simple as this perfectly embodies the fact that Sri Lanka embraces all and everything.”

He said the campaign - with its many sub-straplines, like So Bold, So Pristine, So Colourful, So Flavourful, So Scenic, So

Serene, presented in vibrant colours – helps capture a nation that is known for its beauty, rich biodiversity and range of immersive experiences.

The ‘So Sri Lanka’ brand platform will be fully rolled out early next year with a multi-channel international campaign across all the main digital platforms.

Activities will include a film showing off Sri Lanka’s wildlife.

It will primarily target millennial travellers who place more of a premium on opportunities for experiential activities. Senanayake said: “Statistics show that in 2020, 50% of travel revenue will be spent by millennials.

Rocky Mountaineer back on track ROCKY Mountaineer has revamped its TRACKS training to encourage agents to become a Rocky Mountaineer Specialist.

TRACKS is a five-module course that explores in depth Rocky Mountaineer’s service levels, routes and seasons, packages and more.

Upon completion, agents will be awarded a certificate honouring their title as a Rocky Mountaineer Specialist and have access to sales collateral, webinars and support teams.

To celebrate the launch, Rocky Mountaineer is offering agents who finish the TRACKS training two twoday rail-only GoldLeaf Service tickets.

Agents must complete the training by December 31, 2018 to have their names entered into the draw. rockymountaineer.com/travel-trade

srilanka.travel

Aussie Specialists invited to become ‘Australian Ambassadors’ TOURISM Australia (TA) has launched a competition for its Aussie Specialists to become ‘Australian Ambassadors’ and join a tailor-made trip Down Under to share their experiences with other travel sellers across the world.

Aussie Specialists are those agents who have completed the Aussie Specialist Program, an award-winning online programme that gives agents the knowledge needed to sell Australia.

TA Managing Director John O’Sullivan said: “We hope content created by the Ambassadors will help other Aussie Specialists improve their knowledge, encourage more sellers to sign up to the programme and help people book Australian holidays.”

UK agents can apply up to December 16, with the announcement of the winning ambassador to be made in 2019.

Applicants need to submit a

two-minute video highlighting the reasons why they think there’s nothing like Australia and why they should be an Ambassador.

Sally Cope, TA’s Regional General Manager, UK and Northern Europe, said of the training: “Agents gain access to bespoke training and sales resources, travel offers, invitations to attend exclusive Australia events and regular product updates and webinars.” aussiespecialist.com/ambassador-uk

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Guernsey targets trade 0 E /2 IN 19 L R ON TE IN OW W SN TE RA

NIKA ISLAND RESORT MALDIVES Book now for Summer 2019 and Save 15% Off Room Rates for stays PLUS EXTRA FREE NIGHTS IN JANUARY Free Nights Stay 7 Pay 6 or Stay 14 Pay 12 Selected dates between 07 Jan – 31 Oct 19

BY ANDY HOSKINS

VISIT Guernsey will work closely with the travel trade in 2019 to grow visitor numbers to the Channel Island.

After posting some of its best visitor figures in a decade in 2017, the ‘Beast from the East’ took its tool in 2018, but 2019 provides plenty of potential.

“Traditional travel agents remain very important to us,” says Mike Hopkins, Director of Marketing and Tourism at Visit Guernsey, who sees Brexit as an opportunity for the destination.

“There could be a softening of demand for travel from the UK into Europe so we think there’s an opportunity there – a latent

market to take advantage of.”

It will continue to promote key markets including food, walking, cycling, nature and island hopping. “Herm, Sark and Alderney are all completely different islands and very accessible from Guernsey,” says Hopkins.

A self-guided Occupation Trail will launch in 2019, enabling visitors to discover island life under German occupation during World War II. In addition, Hauteville, the home of French author and poet Victor Hugo, will reopen to visitors in 2019.

ERIYADU MALDIVES FANTASTIC DIVING AND SNORKELLING 10% Off Room Rates PLUS Comp Upgrade from FB to All Inclusive!

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visitguernsey.com

New deal for Osborne & Ebel wholesaler Osborne & Ebel has a special deal for the Sheraton Full Moon Resort Maldives. Five nights start from £375pp on a full-board basis, including return speedboat transfers.

For travel May 1 to September 30 2019. The resort is a short boat transfer from Male Airport with excellent access to great diving spots, pristine beaches and great F&B options. For details contact: sales@osborneandebel.com

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Raising Arizona

BA beats the drum for Durban BRITISH Airways is operating a three-times-a -week non-stop service from Heathrow to Durban, South Africa, this winter.

A Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner operates the flight to South Africa’s third-largest city during the country’s peak tourism months. It has a morning arrival into Durban and an evening arrival into Heathrow.

The new flight has Durban and KwaZulu-Natal’s tourism sector anticipating a boom. Said Phindile Makwakwa, Acting Chief Executive of Tourism KZN: “British Airways has indicated that inward-bound forward bookings are looking extremely good.

There are some 100,000 passengers who travel between the UK and Durban every year and this new route will tap directly into this latent demand.”

Durban is known for its ‘Golden Mile’ beachfront, year-round tropical climate and attractions such as uShaka Marine World. It’s also the gateway to KwaZulu-Natal’s seaside towns, safari parks, ‘Midlands Meander’ self-drive route, Boer War and Anglo-Zulu War Battlefields and the hiking haven of the Drakensberg Mountains. batraveltrade.com

BRAND USA’s 2019 UK & Ireland MegaFam will wrap up in Phoenix/Scottsdale, Arizona, on May 15. The fam sees up to 100 agents joining seven itineraries.

Agents can win a place by booking flights with the partner airlines, American Airlines and British Airways, between December 3 and March 29, as well as earning USA specialist badges here: usadiscoveryprogram.co.uk

Trade Incentive: NEW Route MAN-ADD with Ethiopian Airlines

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For T&C’s, and to register your bookings visit www.manchesterairport.co.uk/travel-trade Contact Olivia with any questions ManchesterAirportAgents

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new strategy for Belearics THE BALEARIC Islands Tourist Board has a series of new tourism strategies focused on preserving cultural and natural heritage.

The ‘Mallorca Inspires’ project will highlight cultural heritage and focus on sustainable tourism practices.

Menorca’s focus is to improve marine life and to extend its Biosphere.

The ‘Ibiza World Heritage’ campaign highlights the island’s rich customs and traditions and sister isle Formentera’s ‘Unique and Natural’ strategy will highlight is as a refuge for natural beauty, particularly focusing on the Posidonia meadows. illesbalears.travel

Malaysia is back for 2019

BY STEVE HARTRIDGE

MALAYSIA aims to increase its marketing efforts in the UK after several years of reduced activity.

New Minister of Tourism, Datuk Mohamaddin bin Ketapi, said the country is developing new tourism strategies, unveiling new products and re-energising with the UK trade to put Malaysia ‘back on the map’ for UK travellers.

A central theme will be ecotourism and homestays in both urban and rural communities.

“More travellers want to meet the locals, learn about their lives

and experience some of the things they do, so we are developing products that will offer this. It‘s also important that we make tourism work for all levels of our society,” said the minister.

Also announced was a Visit Malaysia 2020 campaign, which will showcase the country’s diverse culture through a year of events, festivals, arts, musical showcases, food promotions and more.

Malaysia had 25.9 million arrivals in 2017 and is targeting 30 million in 2020. tourismmalaysia.gov.my

Journey Latin America acquired by DER Touristik UK

BY JESSICA POOK

JOURNEY Latin America has been bought by DER Touristik UK, the parent company of Kuoni and specialist brands Carrier, Kirker and CV Villas.

The operator, which specialises in tailor-made trips and escorted tours to Latin America, will continue to run as a specialist business within DER Touristik UK. Derek Jones, CEO, DER Touristik UK said: “Our approach is about retaining independence and specialist knowledge so companies are able to flourish, with the backing of a supportive, ambitious group. Journey Latin America complements our existing brands. We see opportunities to grow the business through our retail network and travel agent partners.” journeylatinamerica.co.uk

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Azerbaijan set to double numbers THE AZERBAIJAN Tourism Board’s (ATB) new ‘Take another look’ campaign is designed to double in-bound tourism by 2023.

The campaign aims to present a ‘new portrait’ of the country and enhance its destination value while promoting its rich history dating back five millennia, culture surrounding the Great Silk Road and sporting events such as the upcoming Formula 1 Azerbaijan Grand Prix and UEFA’s Europa League Final in 2019.

The country is thought to be on the cusp of a tourism boom and welcomed a record number of visitors in 2017. azerbaijan.travel

Inspiring journeys Down Under AAT KINGS’ 2019/20 Australia & New Zealand brochure has five new trips and discounts of 10% for bookings before January 31.

New itineraries include the seven-day Journey to the West trip which takes advantage of Qantas’ new direct flights from London.

From £2,595pp it has stops at the wineries of Margaret River, Rottnest Island with its resident quokkas and cities Fremantle and Perth.

Guests who book and pay in full before January 31 2019 can claim 10% off the price. aatkings.com

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Trek America’s 2019 tours are party perfect ROAD trip specialist Trek America has launched its 2019 brochure with some new product including beer tours of America’s East and West coasts and a new trail through the Deep South, ending at the Austin City Limits festival.

Cities, Sights and Craft Beer Delights – West is a seven-day trip with prices from £1,249pp and takes in San Francisco, Santa Rosa, Portland and Seattle.

The east coast version is from £1,399pp and visits New York City, Boston, Washington DC, Atlanta and Ashville. trekamerica.com

Agents ‘find purpose’

NEWS TO USE IN BRIEF EL AL will begin a new direct flight from Manchester to Tel Aviv from May 26 2019. The service to Ben Gurion Airport, which is located between Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, will operate three times a week. The ‘Two Sunny Cities, One Break’ campaign, currently being run by the Israel Government Tourist Office, showcases the highlights of both. elair.com; citiesbreak.com

BY JESSICA POOK

NEW RESEARCH conducted by G Adventures has revealed 70% of travel agents believe their work ‘makes the world a better place’.

A breakdown of the ‘State of Purpose in the Travel Industry’ survey, which looked specifically at what motivates travel agents, found that globally 71% of travel agents identify as being purposeoriented, increasing to 80% with adventure travel specialists.

It suggests travel agents who are purpose-orientated are over 30% more satisfied with their

job, while 97% of UK adventure specialists believe responsible travel is a key source of positive social change.

The survey findings were revealed at World Travel Market

by G Adventures’ founder Bruce Poon Tip. The tour operator has also announced a new programme called ‘Change Makers Challenge’ which incentivises agents to focus on ‘changing people’s lives through travel’. gadventures.co.uk

TUI adds more concept hotels to portfolio

WANDERLUST Caribbean Boutique Hotel has opened in Dominica. Overlooking Hodges Bay in Calibishie, the luxury beachfront hotel has just five private lodgings.

The property has private access to the beach and to the river below. wanderlustcaribbean.com

THE NATIONAL Museum of Qatar in Doha will open to the public on March 28 2019. Designed by worldfamous French architect Jean Nouvel, winner of the prestigious Pritzker Prize in 2008 for his work on more than 200 projects, the building’s unique design of interlocking disks was inspired by the desert rose, and combines historic artefacts and contemporary influences. visitqatar.qa

BY LAURA GELDER

TUI Group has expanded its international concept hotel portfolio with 15 new hotels around the Mediterranean, increasing the number of TUI Sensimar, TUI Family Life and TUI Sensatori Hotels to over 100 in 16 countries.

There will be 12 new TUI Sensimar hotels and three new TUI Family Life hotels opened in the 2019 financial year. TUI will debut a concept brand in Santorini with TUI Sensimar Meltemi Blue.

While some of 15 new hotels are located in destinations such as Spain and Greece, some others will expand the offering in Italy, Egypt, Tunisia and Croatia and TUI Sensatori Barut Fethiye Resort in Turkey will be extended with a new building. tuigroup.com

JAMAICA-BASED resort Goldeneye is expanding its wellness offering by adding two new spa huts and a yoga deck to the FieldSpa which will debut this December. Guests will have direct access to the property’s spa cove, a crescent-shaped beach set along Goldeneye’s lagoon.

The property was once the home of James Bond author Ian Fleming. goldeneye.com

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 PARIS, FRANCE – NOVEMBER 9–11 2018

Cruising’s ripple effect Steve Hartridge was in Paris for the eighth annual CLIA river conference

Russia on the rise RUSSIA will be one of the future stars of river cruising, CLIA delegates were told.

Several cruise lines, including APT, Scenic, CroisiEurope, Emerald Waterways and Uniworld already offer itineraries in the country, sailing from Moscow to St Petersburg on the Volga and taking in canals and lakes in the interior.

APT’s Paul Melinis said: “The World Cup this summer raised awareness of Russia, but its history and culture remains relatively unknown.

“Because hotels are so expensive there, a river cruise represents a great-value way to see the country.”

Scenic Group’s MD, Colin Downing, said: “After the wonders of Moscow you cruise through the country’s interior, past remote villages.

On the same latitude as Canada, it gets very scenic, with forested islands and pine trees. It is also the Land of the Midnight Sun”.

APT’s 12-day Essential Treasures of Russia cruise starts from £2,795pp.

Uniworld’s 12-day Imperial Waterways of Russia trip is priced from £4,239. scenic.co.uk; uniworld.com

Brexit slows down growth

INTERVIEW MICHEL GRIMM International Sales Director, CroisiEurope

Has 2018 been a good year for CroisiEurope? It has been excellent. Global growth is up about 10% with UK numbers up by 20%.

THE rise and rise of river cruising could be slowed in 2019 by uncertainty over the terms of the UK’s Brexit deal.

This year has been a ‘huge year for river cruise’, noted CLIA’s UK and Ireland Director Andy Harmer, during his opening remarks. The number of UK river cruisers is expected to reach around 220,000, up from 210,000 in 2017, and 17 new river cruise vessels have entered service in 2018 with 18 others earmarked for delivery in 2019.

However, some cruise lines are noticing a softening of demand as the March 31 2019 Bexit date approaches. “I am convinced Brexit is dampening demand, particularly with the uncertainty it

is having on currency fluctuations.

Our bookings are roughly on a par in 2019 with 2018, but we wanted to be ahead,” said Giles Hawke, CEO Avalon Waterways.

Colin Downing, MD, Scenic Group agreed: ”Our survey of river cruise guests showed 78% were worried about how Brexit would impact issues like healthcare overseas, passports, queues at airports and borders, and the value of their holiday money.”

A rallying cry was offered by AmaWaterways MD, Stuart Perl, who claimed Brexit could even work in favour of bookings.

“Brexit is definitely having an impact right now, but the positive is that there could be a pent-up demand being created.”

CLIA plans a River Cruise Crusade in 2019 CLIA’S most expansive river cruise roadshow yet will visit six cities in March 2019: Newcastle, Liverpool, Birmingham, Bristol, Oxford and Ipswich. Tagged ‘River Cruise Crusade’, the roadshow will kick off on March 11. cruiseexperts.corg

How do you explain the UK success? We have been more dynamic in the market. In January we brought in John Fair to be our Sales Director, with a brief to increase our trade profile and business.

How he is working with the trade? John is regularly on the road with Gabriella Alam, our Head of Sales and Marketing. We are adding staff to be more proactive with agents. We organise agent fams and ship visits and will do more of these. We are also working on our online training programme.

What’s in the pipeline for CroisiEurope? Right now we have 55 ships in our fleet.

From April 2019 we will add a fourth ship on the popular Rhone. We will also be adding a sixth ship, the MS Amalia Rodriguez, to the Douro river, on the Iberian Ppeninsula.

The Duoro was unknown a few years back but is now selling really well. And we are also building a second ship for Africa, to complement the African Dream that currently offers lodge-and-lake packages on Lake Kariba. A cruise-only ship, it should be sailing by March 2020.

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RIVERS OF THE WORLD CroisiEurope Cruises has pioneered river cruising on the most beautiful waterways in Europe.

Over the past 42 years this family owned company has become Europe’s leading river cruise operator; now owning, managing and operating 55 river ships and canal barges.

Their expansion onto worldwide and exotic rivers means CroisiEurope Cruises can now also bring you unforgettable river cruise journeys across the globe.

THE MAJESTIC LOIRE An exclusive itinerary

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INFORMATION AND RESERVATIONS ✆ 0208 3281 281 - Email: resuk@croisieurope.com or visit www.croisieurope.co.uk

Untitled-3 Untitled-6 1

CroisiEurope

Best River Line Itineraries

11/27/18 05:51 PM 22/10/2018 10:25

the review: checking out

Checking out...

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HOTELS / RESORTS TRAIN JOURNEYS / CRUISES AIRPORT REVIEWS

THE WESTIN COPLEY PLACE – Boston, USA

BY JULIE BAXTER

THE BACKGROUND: Managed by the Marriott Group, the hotel has 830 rooms (including 143 suites) over 36 floors - all of which have been recently refurbished. It positions itself as the friend of the frequent traveller with touches designed to create a home-from-home lifestyle.

THE CHECK-IN: Entrance to the hotel is at street level with check-in one floor up in the lobby. The staff were friendly, efficient and full of local tips for a good stay. The check-in was quick and smooth. Mobile check-in is also available pre-arrival.

THE ROOM: My Club Access room was large and comfortable with picture windows over- looking the city to the Charles River beyond.

Grey and purple tones and photos within the décor have been chosen to reflect the local parks and scenes of the area. The Westin Heavenly

THE VERDICT Fresh from a complete refurbishment earlier this year, The Westin Copley Square is a stylish and comfortable, well-located hotel with a strong focus on guest wellbeing.

Friendly staff and many little touches give this large hotel a more boutique personal feel than most its size.

king sized bed was heavenly and the seating and desk area roomy and well positioned. The compact but well-equipped bathrooms featured large walk-in power shower.

KEY FACILITIES: There’s free wifi, a business centre and Club Lounge.

The hotel prides itself on being wellbeing and offers free guided

runs, yoga classes and an extensive gym with peloton exercise bike.

RESTAURANTS/BARS: Traditional Brazilian steakhouse restaurant, Fogo de Chão, and Bar 10 off the lobby for beers, cocktails and American fayre.

RATES: From $514 per night.

Address: 10 Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA;  westincopleyplaceboston.com

10 CASTLE STREET – Dorset, UK

BY DAVID CLARE

THE BACKGROUND: This Grade II listed country house hotel is near Cranborne, Dorset (15 miles from Bournemouth Airport) and set in stunning grounds. Recently remodelled, it has nine individually designed and furnished guestrooms.

THE ROOM: On the second floor, it’s nicely designed and decorated with white and cream colours complemented by dark wood furniture and red seats. It featured a superbly comfortable super king-sized bed, desk, and a seating area with sofa, two armchairs and

a coffee table in front of a fireplace.

Amenities included hot drink-making facilities, iPod docking station, DAB radio and Smart TV. The stunning marble-clad en-suite bathroom came with Temple Spa toiletries.

KEY FACILITIES: Complimentary wifi is throughout the property. Activities like wine tasting, game shooting and screenings can be arranged. There are plans for a spa to be opened.

RESTAURANTS/BARS: There are two bars, a billiards room and various lounges, including one outside, each with a unique atmosphere and design. The elegant restaurant also offered a ‘tasting room’ where guests can sit and watch the chefs at work. The food is all locally sourced including from a vegetable garden within the grounds.

THE VERDICT This was a wonderful country house experience and the property has obviously been lovingly restored, with each common room offering a unique atmosphere and design. Mobile phone signal wasn’t great but that could be seen as a positive for those wanting a real rural escape.

RATES: From £265 (B&B).

Address: 10 Castle Street, Cranborne, Wimborne, BH21 5PZ;  castlestreet.com

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your

CARIBBEAN NEWS THIS MO N TH’S TOP STORIES FROM THE CARIB B EAN

CRICKET DRAW FOR ST. KITTS

MEET THE CTO MEMBER

ST. KITTS will host two England versus West Indies T20 matches on March 8 and 10, 2019 at Warner Park. International Cricket Tours is offering an 11-night deal for those wanting to go to both matches, from £2,599pp based on two sharing.

Tracy DenmanHughes

Owner, TDH and Sales & Marketing Director, The Caribbean Collection Ltd.

HOTTEST NEWS

Q

WHAT are the benefits of being a CTO member? There are many, but for me it is being kept updated on all the region’s activities and the plans ahead, and of course being able to network with colleagues. Jamie-Lee at the CTO is magnificent at sending out information and ideas of upcoming events we can be part of.

Q

WHAT CTO activities do you get involved with? As I’m a brand new member of the CTO at the moment I’m reviewing what I will be participating in, but it goes without saying that I got involved in the networking from the start!

Q

TELL us about TDH and what it does.

We represent Mango Bay, Island Inn, The Sands and Southern Palms on Barbados, as well as The Villas At Stonehaven on Tobago and Mount Nevis Hotel on Nevis - please contact me about any of the above!

Q

WHAT’S your Caribbean tip?

You must go to the races when you are in Barbados!

It’s a fantastic family day out and is on year-round, apart from October.

reservations@ictours.co.uk

FIRST HOTEL CHAIN FOR DOMINICA Tobago wants to go it alone

Tobago rebrands to stand out THE Tobago Tourism Agency (TTA) is keen to move the island away from its position as a twin to Trinidad with a new logo and identity.

The ‘Tobago Beyond’ brand will convey an ‘unspoilt, untouched and undiscovered’ image which it’s hoped will attract SuperBoomers and DINKYS (Dual-income No Kids Yet), groups that have the means to afford a Caribbean holiday with the inclination to find somewhere off the beaten track.

Louis Lewis, TTA CEO says: “Tobago is the unspoilt, untouched Caribbean island where the undiscovered waits around every corner.”

New destination guides will be distributed and an online did you know? training programme for agents st a has ju Jamaic e th is coming soon to help attract d e m been na Best Spa new markets. ’s n a e Caribbe 18 by th visittobago.gov.tt tion 20 s rd a Destina w A pa World S ica.com a visitjam IT has been revealed that Jamaica has a 42% repeat visitor rate.

The island will see several hotel openings for 2019, New resorts for Jamaica including a Hard Rock Hotel in Liliput, S Hotel in Montego Bay and an AC Hotel in Kingston (a Sandals and Marriott project). Also next year, the annual Kington City Run will introduce The Kingston City Marathon (KCM) with plans to offer affordable packages for overseas participants. kingstoncityrun.com

THE Cabrits Resort and spa, Kempiniski Dominica, will be the first hotel chain to open on the island. Due to open late 2019, the Kempiniski will offer guests a modern contemporary choice. Currently, 57% of Dominica’s hotels are back in business. kempinski.com

35% OFF WITH CARIBTOURS CARIBTOURS is offering 35% off a seven-night stay at its Blue Waters Resort and Spa in Antigua when booked by December 14. The promotion also includes ‘first child stays and eats free’ and a complimentary room upgrade. caribtours.co.uk

THE CTO was awarded ‘Favourite Roadshow’ in the Selling Travel Agents Choice Awards 2018.

Speaking of the year ahead CTO award winners Lorraine Grant said: “Well done to the agents who have won prizes and for participating at the many Caribbean training events this year. There will be lots more prizes and incentives to be gained in 2019, so join the CTG Programme at caribbeantravelguru.com or email abrooks@ caribtourism.com.

caribbean.co.uk Sign up to the CTO’s training programme at caribbeantravelguru.com

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Malawi Known for its epic lake, lush rolling tea country and majestic mountains, Malawi is also Africa’s rising ‘Big Five’ destination, says Karl Cushing

Aim high Covering 250 square miles, the scenic nature-rich slopes of the Mt. Mulanje massif in the south contain the country’s highest point and are a magnet for hikers, climbers and animal spotters.

Level out Spend time drinking in the raw nature of the scenic Zomba Plateau, a slab of mountain that rises to 6,000 ft. Hike scenic paths such as the Potato Trail. Look out for baboons and the area’s elusive leopards.

Time for tea Take a tea-tasting tour, explore the estate and try refreshing tea-infused cocktails during a stay at Satemwa’s lovely Huntingdon House. The property has stayed in the same family, with Scottish roots, since 1920.

Float on With its mix of boat, jeep and walking safaris Mvuu Camp in Liwonde, overlooking the Shire River, offers a memorable bush and wildlife experience.

Accommodation includes five family chalets.

Stone me Visit the country’s highest town, Dedza, to see its Stone Age Chongoni Rock Art, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Also see Chewa village dances and drop into a pottery studio for highstandard gifts.

If you’re planning a Big Five safari it is unlikely Malawi will be the first destination to spring to mind, but under the careful tutelage of African Parks its star has been quietly rising.

Having transformed poached-out Majete into Malawi’s sole Big Five park back in 2012, this spring the non-profit conservation body turned Liwonde National Park into its second.

Given the ongoing restocking of Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve – AP’s president, HRH Prince Harry, having helped relocate more than 1,500 animals into the park last summer – a third appears imminent, and the future is looking brighter for Malawi’s other parks, such as northernly Nyika.

Moreover, AP’s efforts are attracting more top drawer operators to the country’s parks such as Robin Pope Safaris (robinpopesafaris.net), which opened Kuthengo Camp in Liwonde in April.

Lake Larks Big game is but one selling point, however. While my eight-day trip saw me enjoy time at the excellent Mvuu Camp in Liwonde and Tongole Wilderness Lodge in Nkhotakota it also included two nights by Lake Malawi and a magical two-night stay at Satemwa Tea Estate, with a great range of hikes, tours and pedals in between.

The 365-mile long Lake Malawi is a big draw, home to the resort of Cape Maclear and laid-back couples’ favourites

BENTLEY PALMER

Top stops

BURCHELL’S ZEBRA

such as Mumbo Island (mumboisland.com) and Green Safaris’ (greensafaris.com) second lodge, Kaya Mawa, on Likoma Island.

My two nights by the lake offered everything from kayaking and a lakeside cycle to hippo-spotting on a sunset dinner cruise aboard Pumulani’s private dhow. The charming Makokola Retreat serves up bird-watching, fish-eagle feeding and snorkelling on a tour to Bird Island (makokola.com).

The basics While there’s no bad time to visit Malawi, the hot, dry winter months of May to October are best. Recommend clients fly into Lilongwe and out of Blantyre, possible from Heathrow with operators such as Ethiopian Airways (ethiopianairlines. com) and South African Airways (flysaatrade. com/uk), to avoid backtracking.

For more reasons why you should ‘Make it Malawi’, see malawiresources.com or contact Malawi Travel Marketing Consortium (0115 9727250; enquiries@malawitourism.com). 

BOOK IT WITH... ROBIN POPE SAFARIS

SNORKELING IN LAKE MALAWI

An 11-day package twinning Zambia and Malawi starts from £4,197pp (not international flights), for travel between May 22 and November 30, 2019. The tour takes in Nkwali and Nsefu Camps in South Luangwa before switching to Mkulumadzi in Majete and Pumulani on Lake Malawi. robinpopesafaris.net

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the final word

the quirky side of travel Run for your life

From running with wolves to running from lions (joking, hopefully), the Elewana Collection has added the Loisaba running track to its portfolio of activities at the Loisaba Tented Camp.

Bucking the trend for sedentary safaris spent in a jeep, this gives visitors the chance to burn off that lavish bush breakfast by running through Kenya's Loisaba Conservancy, a ranch home to elephant, lion and rare African wild dogs.

There are three bush routes of varying difficulty/elevation, all with spectacular views across the plains to Mount Kenya.

Guests can even use the track alone but should tell reception of their plans and if they run before 8am the track will need to be checked for wildlife. Now that's a fitness incentive! elewanacollection.com

TOP 6… places for expats to live Flat-out fun?

There's a lot of talk about appreciating everyday pleasures at the moment and Hilton Garden Inn is no diferent.

The group's research found that 71% of Brits grab an iron to decompress (two-thirds apparently said it's more relaxing than yoga) so it's launching an Ironing Club led by a 'Relaxation Expert'. We say, one person's everyday pleasure is another's pain in the... hiltongardeninn3.hilton.com

Want to escape Brexit? You should head to these countries, says internations.org

Bahrain

Taiwan

A airside awakening...

Lingerie and adult toy specialist Anne Summers is to open its first airport store in Gatwick’s North Terminal. The store has an 'experiential' layout and will sell swimwear to entice holiday makers.

The press release reads: "We encourage sexual awakening and have dominated the market for over 40 years, selling over two million rampant rabbits." We reckon shoppers will be buzzing... annsummers.com

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THE JANUARY 2018 ISSUE OF SELLING TRAVEL WILL FEATURE: California • Bermuda • Colombia • Touring • Kentucky Cruising • Indian Ocean • Indochina • Copenhagen • UK Holidays • Jamaica • CONTACT US sales@bmipublishing.co.uk; editorial@bmipublishing.co.uk PLUS ONLINE Daily Selling Tips • Destination Guides • Photo Galleries • Travel Uni

sellingtravel.co.uk

Final Word Dec.indd 82

11/27/18 12:50 PM

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11/22/18 04:16 PM 22/11/2018 15:25 15:05

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11/27/18 04:22 PM

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