Turbulence | Issue 10 | 2015

ISSUE 10

TURBULENCE

FINALIS T 2013, 2014 & 2015

WIN ANTLER LUGGAGE

VALUED AROUND

$800 Early Bird Season

Hurry and grab yourself a bargain

Terrific TASMANIA

THE SEAN SIMMONS TEAM OF TRAVEL EXPERTS P P F A

+61 3 9429 3294 (local) 1300 391 590 (interstate) +61 3 9429 3293 Suite 6, 53 Coppin Street Richmond VIC 3121

E enquiries@seanstravel.com.au W seansimmons travel.com.au ABN 48153795129 | AFTA 10216 | ATAS A10436 TURBULENCE | ISSUE 10 |2015 | 1

DID YOU KNOW? 1. Sean Simmons Travel is not only your business travel agent – we are your gateway to the entire world of leisure and adventure travel – just speak to our Leisure Guru, Kat

4. Turbulence is full of links to itineraries, app downloads, news items, videos and more – so as you read, be sure to follow the links for even more great content

2. Any of the products in Turbulence can be booked by calling the amazing team at Sean Simmons Travel on 03 9429 3294 or sending Us an email

5. If you don’t see what you are looking for, contact us and we will hunt it down for you – it’s that easy!

3. Any of the special offers you see in Turbulence are only available by booking through Sean Simmons Travel – you won’t find these deals anywhere else!

6. We enjoy getting feedback – it’s what keeps us doing what we do. If you want more information on anything you see, are curious about what we can offer you, or you’d just like to say how great you think we are – contact us don’t be shy!

THIS ISSUE 5 FROM THE EDITOR 6 How to avoid travel mistakes Early Bird Season

Tours to Europe & The UK HURRY, these specials wont last!

Tasmania

8 22

PAGE 7

WIN ANTLER LUGGAGE VALUED AROUND

$800 33 Corporate travel programs

SEAN’S TRAVEL Tips

34

#myseanstravel

36

Flight deck

38

travel information & industry news

37 Planet of the apPs Grammarly

40 World events calendar

TURBULENCE | ISSUE 10 |2015 | 3

“ To my mind, the greatest reward and luxury of travel is to be able to experience everyday things as if for the first time, to be in a position in which almost nothing is so familiar it is taken for granted.�

Bill Bryson

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FROM THE EDITOR

Welcome to another exciting edition of Turbulence.

Early bird season is always an exciting time in travel. We love it because we are always busy. You will love it because there are some great deals flying around – pun intended.

Make sure you explore inside for some inspiration.

This month is very exciting as we have a Turbulence first!

Our team member Brett, travelled to Tasmania as a guest of Tourism Tasmania, and had an amazing time!

Read all about it from page 22, and remember, if you are planning a trip to Tassie, he has a wealth of brand new knowledge to share!

This is the first of several upcoming reviews by our team!

Keep your eyes peeled for Andrea’s adventures in the happiest place on earth – Bhutan, Mel will take you on a whirlwind trek through Europe, Sean has an update on Singapore and Hong Kong, and that’s just getting started!

If you’ve had the trip of a lifetime and want to share it with the rest of the Sean Simmons Travel community, get in touch – we’d love to share your adventures and perhaps you might inspire someone to follow in your footsteps.

Remember, everyone has a book inside them, so let us tell your story and share your tips!

Looking for new suitcases? For yourself or a Christmas gift?

We are today launching a new competition for all our readers, but, you do have to do some work to be eligible!

See how to enter on page 7.

Well, that’s all from me this time.I hope that you enjoy Turbulence as much as we enjoy bringing it to you. Please do let us know if you want something new, different, a specific topic, or have just general feedback. We are more than happy to do what we can to enrich your reading pleasure!

So please, sit back, relax, put your feet up, and enjoy!!

TURBULENCE | ISSUE 10 |2015 | 5

How to avoid travel mistakes

Simple, book with an industry accredited ATAS travel agent.

When planning an overseas holiday make sure that you book through an expert travel planner like Sean Simmons and avoid common travel mistakes that can leave you confused, frustrated or worse – stranded!

ATAS travel agents are trained travel professionals there to assist you plan, prepare and book to ensure that you get the most out of your overseas holiday.

Here are some simple tips to ensure you avoid the common mistake when jet-setting on your next overseas adventure:

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1. Overweight luggage:

3. Jet lag:

Don’t make the fatal mistake of packing your entire life into the suitcase and arriving at the airport over the allocated weight limit. If you don’t think ahead, you could end up paying crazy fees per kg of overweight luggage.

Check the airlines website for weight limits and approved bag sizes before you pack. And remember, always leave room in your suitcase when traveling abroad, because chances are, you’ll accumulate some awesome souvenirs throughout your travels.

If you’ve never been overseas before, you may not anticipate the dizzying, flu-like sensation of jet lag that occurs shortly after arriving in your destination.

Some jet lag is to be expected, so minimise it by sleeping on the plane or making sure your itinerary includes a good nights sleep at your destination. If you don’t, it could ruin your entire trip!

2.

Don’t be late:

International flights require more time at the airport than regular flights. Airlines recommend you arrive at the airport no later than two hours before your flight.

Most airports do have a cut-off time and they will stick to it, no matter what your excuse is. No matter how you plan to get to the airport - taxi, train or drive and park in the long term car-park – it is worth planning ahead to make sure you do leave plenty of time. If you decide to drive, make sure you take into consideration traffic conditions and be sure to check out the parking station online, sometimes you can save by pre-paying for parking online.

4. Itinerary overload: Your first instinct might be to cram as much as possible into your overseas adventure. As exciting as travel is, waiting at airports, packing luggage, travelling to your hotel can be very exhausting. It is also helpful to recognise that other cultures operate on different schedules than us Aussies do.

5. Know your destination (or at least a little): If you’re flying into a country that doesn’t speak English or English isn’t its primary language, it is polite to try to master a few simple words in the native tongue. Even if your pronunciation is terrible or your sentences are strung together awkwardly, most people will appreciate your effort and be more likely to interact with you.

Likewise, knowing some of the customs can be very

helpful in making sure you don’t offend the locals.

6. Notify your bank: There is nothing worse than swiping your credit card and having it declined by the bank due to suspected fraudulent activity. So before you travel, make sure you notify your bank of your travel dates & destination.

Additionally, be prepared for the unpleasant, like a stolen or lost wallet, and take photocopies of your credit cards, passports, drivers license and keep it in a separate location to your wallet. It is also worth giving a copy to a trusted friend or relative back home.

Sean Simmons is ATAS travel accredited. ATAS accredited agents are trusted, reliable and trained travel professionals. Booking with an ATAS accredited agent means you’re in safe hands and can travel with confidence.

®

antler

Champions of Lightweight Luggage

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ANTLER LUGGAGE VALUED around

$800

SEAN SIMMONS TRAVEL IS GIVING AWAY A COMPLETE SET OF THREE ANTLER CYBERLITE SUITCASES WORTH OVER $800 TWO $100 SEAN SIMMONS TRAVEL VOUCHERS! Sean Simmons Travel will vote on all entrants and award the best photo and best story with a $100 Sean Simmons Travel voucher, redeemable for international travel!

It’s simple to enter, CLICK HERE For full details.

PLUS

TURBULENCE | ISSUE 10 |2015 | 7

BLACK FOREST, GERMANY NICE, FRANCE

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If you are considering travel next year now is a great time to book! Virgin Australia, Qatar, Etihad, Lufthansa and many more world class airlines are on sale to amazing destinations around the world. Our dedicated team will aim to get you the best deals on your travel, so if you are even thinking about taking a vacation next year, speak to one of Seans Simmons Travel Experts now to see what you could be saving.

Early bird season isn’t just about airfares – you can also get great savings on tours and cruising by booking well in advance. We have put together a sample to tantalise your taste buds and inspire you to dream big when it comes to your travels.

TURBULENCE | ISSUE 10 |2015 | 9

BUDAPEST 10 | TURBULENCE | ISSUE 10 | 2015

EA SE

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SPLENDOURS OF EUROPE RIVER CRUISe

EARLYBIRD

15 DAYS FROM $6,895* PER PERSON TWIN SHARE

OFFER #1

Cruise through the heart and soul of Europe, stopping at bustling cosmopolitan cities and charming riverside towns and villages. You will sail through Europe’s broad and mighty rivers that have shaped the history, destiny and cultures.

Buy One Airfare, Get one FREE* HURRY! Pay deposit by 31st Oct

EARLYBIRD

PREMIUM INCLUSIONS

• Emerald Star Ships EXCLUSIVE to Evergreen Tours • The services of an Emerald Waterways Cruise Director • Port taxes and charges included • All tipping and gratuities included • Free airport transfers • 14 nights on a luxury European river ship • PREMIUM INCLUSIONS • Explore 15 different cities, towns and villages with a guide during our included tours and shore excursions • In Amsterdam, take a canal boat cruise or a walking tour of the city centre • Take a walking tour of vibrant Cologne • In Rudesheim take the cable car to the Germania monument • Walking tour of the medieval Bavarian town of Miltenberg or a guided hike in Wertheim • Absorb the sights of Würzburg on a tour • Take a tour of charming Bamberg • Tour Melk’s Benedictine Abbey • Walk the cobblestone streets on a walking tour of Passau • Visit St. Stephens Cathedral – home to Europe’s largest church organ • In Vienna, take a guided sightseeing tour of the city • Take a city tour of Bratislava • Discover Budapest on a guided city tour • Traditional Bavarian Band and dancing • Home hosted afternoon tea with a Slovakian family • EU Lecture on board

ITINERARY Day 1: Arrive Amsterdam (D) Day 2: Amsterdam - Cruising (B,L,D) Day 3: Cologne (B,L,D) Day 4: Rhine Gorge - Rüdesheim (B,L,D) Day 5: Miltenberg (B,L,D) Day 6: Würzburg (B,L,D) Day 7: Bamberg (B,L,D) Day 8: Nuremberg (B,L,D) Day 9: Kelheim - Regensburg (B,L,D) Day 10: Passau (B,L,D) Day 11: Melk - Dürnstein (B,L,D) Day 12: Vienna (B,L,D) Day 13: Bratislava (B,L,D) Day 14: Budapest (B,L,D) Day 15: D isembarkation - Depart Budapest (B)

OFFER #2

FREE* Cruise & Coach Tour or Two City Extensions

EARLYBIRD

OFFER #3 Book & Pay in full and save $100-$400 pp* *Conditions apply.

DINING HIGHLIGHTS

• 41 superb meals including 14 Full Breakfasts (FB), 13 Lunches (L), 12 Dinners (D) & 2 Highlight Dinners (HD) • Captain’s Welcome Reception • Captain’s Gala Dinner • Traditional Hungarian Farewell Dinner • Complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks served with lunch and dinner whilst cruising

For all ENQUIRIES email enquiries@seanstravel.com.au TURBULENCE | ISSUE 10 |2015 | 11

MONACO 12 | TURBULENCE | ISSUE 10 | 2015

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DELIGHTS OF FRANCE RIVER CRUISE WITH NICE & MONACO EXTENSION

EARLYBIRD

OFFER #1

15 DAYS FROM $6,125* PER PERSON TWIN SHARE

Buy One Airfare, Get one FREE* HURRY! Pay deposit by 31st Oct

Romantic settings, quaint villages, stunning scenery, French flavours and rolling vineyards are yours to discover on your river cruise from Lyon to Chalon, then onto Avignon and Arles.

EARLYBIRD

PREMIUM INCLUSIONS

• ms A-Rosa Stella EXCLUSIVE to Evergreen Tours • The services of an Evergreen Cruise and Tour Director • Port taxes and charges included – saving you $600 per couple • All tipping and gratuities included – saving you $800 per couple • Free airport transfers – saving you $300 per couple • 10 nights on a luxury European river ship • Explore 11 different cities, towns and villages with a guide during our included tours and shore excursions • Tour of Tournus • Walking tour of the Roman town of Vienne • Walking tour of Tournon • Included Beaujolais wine tasting in the picturesque Burgundy Region • Visit to the Hospice de Beaune • City tour of Lyon including the Basilique • Notre Dame du Fourviere and Roman Amphitheatre • City walk in Avignon including the Papal Palace • Tour of Viviers • Tour of Arles • French cooking class and cheese tasting DINING HIGHLIGHTS

• 33 superb meals including 13 Breakfasts (FB), 9 Lunches (L), 11 Dinners (D) • Captain’s Welcome Reception & Dinner • Complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks served with lunch and dinner while cruising

OFFER #2

ITINERARY Day 1: Lyon (D) Day 2: Tournus (B,L,D) Day 3: C halon–Sur–Saone - Beaune (B,L,D) Day 4: Macon (B,L,D) Day 5: Lyon (B,L,D) Day 6: Vienne - Tournon (B,L,D) Day 7: Tournon - Viviers (B,L,D) Day 8: Viviers (B,L,D) Day 9: Avignon (B,L,D) Day 10: Avignon - Arles (B,L,D) Day 11: D isembarkation - Nice at Leisure (B,D) Day 12: Monaco Sightseeing (B) Day 13: Cannes (B) Day 14: Nice (B)

FREE* Cruise & Coach Tour or Two City Extensions

EARLYBIRD

OFFER #3 Book & Pay in full and save $100-$400 pp* *Conditions apply.

Evergreen Tours *Airfare Savings based on economy Sydney to London July 2015 airfare. Airfare offers - are based on economy class, ex Australia on specific airline & specific routing of Evergreen Tours choice. If the specific airline and/or class and/or routing is not available Evergreen Tours reserves the right to use an alternative airline of their choice or add a surcharge. Air taxes and fuel surcharges are included up to $950 per person. A surcharge will apply above this amount. If an additional night(s) at the hotel is required due to availability of flight schedules, this will be held at guests own expense.

Buy One airfare get one free offer - one complimentary return flight when another Adult full fare return flight is purchased, passengers must travel on the same flights. A non-refundable booking deposit of $1,000 per person per cruise/tour must be paid within 5 days of making a booking. If an Earlybird flight deal is applicable, a second non-refundable deposit of $2,000pp is due by 31st October 2015 or 11 months prior to departure date or the date specified in your Booking Advice; whichever date occurs first. All offers are subject to availability at time of booking or until sold out, and there are strictly limited cabins available on set departures. Credit card and booking fees may apply. For full terms and conditions contact your Sean Simmons Travel Expert.

For all ENQUIRIES email enquiries@seanstravel.com.au TURBULENCE | ISSUE 10 |2015 | 13

RHINELAND 14 | TURBULENCE | ISSUE 10 | 2015

EA S E OFFER

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Glimpse of Europe - 2016 7 DAYS FROM $1,595*

EARLYBIRD

PER PERSON TWIN SHARE

Get acquainted with the elegant landmarks and picturesque scenery of Amsterdam, the Rhine Valley, Lucerne and Paris.

Discover fun and friendly Amsterdam with its beautiful canals. Admire the scenic Black forest as you travel through to the spectacular Rhine Falls. Stroll through Lucerne’s medieval old town nestled in the Swiss Alps. As your tour comes to an end, see the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe before you leave.

Book before 17 DeC 2015 & save up to $1,959* per couple with a 10% Early Payment Discount. *Conditions apply.

TRAVEL HIGHLIGHTS

• Dover – See the White Cliffs • Amsterdam – Orientation includes the historic city centre • Rhine Valley – Cruise the Romantic Rhine • Heidelberg – Enjoy views of the castle from the Old Town • Black Forest – See this picturesque region • Schaffhausen – View the mighty Rhine Falls • Lucerne – Orientation including a visit to the Lion Monument and Chapel Bridge • Paris – View the Champs Elysees, Arc de Triomphe and Eiffel Tower PREMIUM INCLUSIONS

• Return ferry from Dover to Calais • Luxury air-conditioned coach • Hand-picked 3 and 4 star accommodation • All hotel service charges and tips, baggage handling fees and local taxes • Variety of Optional Experiences • An expert Travel Director and separate driver • Pick-up and drop-off if you stay at the Trafalgar recommended London hotel booked through Trafalgar or from the London Reception Centre • London airport transfers are available to purchase, conditions apply

ITINERARY 1: London – Amsterdam 2: Amsterdam – Rhine Cruise – Heidelberg – Rhineland 3: Rhineland – Black Forest – Rhine Falls – Lucerne Region 4: Lucerne orientation and free time 5: Lucerne region – Paris (2 nights) 6: Paris Sightseeing and free time 7: Paris – London • The services of a Trafalgar Local Host if you stay at Trafalgar’s recommended London hotel • Audio Headsets Provided throughout your holiday to enhance your included sightseeing experiences DINING

• 6 buffet breakfasts • 3 three course dinners

For all ENQUIRIES email enquiries@seanstravel.com.au TURBULENCE | ISSUE 10 |2015 | 15

VENICE 16 | TURBULENCE | ISSUE 10 | 2015

EA S E OFFER

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European Traveller - 2016 8 DAYS FROM $2,138*

EARLYBIRD

PER PERSON TWIN SHARE

A taste of the world’s most romantic cities, this encounter with Europe isn’t just for couples; it shows unseen sides of iconic emblems like the Eiffel Tower and Venetian canals.

Book before 17 DeC 2015 & save up to $1,959* per couple with a 10% Early Payment Discount.

TRAVEL HIGHLIGHTS

• City tour in Paris, Florence and Rome • Orientation of Lucerne and Venice • Visit the Eiffel Tower in Paris and St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome • View the White Cliffs of Dover, the Champs Élysées and Arc de Triomphe in Paris, Lion Monument and the Chapel Bridge in Lucerne, St. Mark’s Basilica in Venice and the ancient sites of Rome • See the Somme Battlefields and the Vineyards of Burgundy PREMIUM INCLUSIONS

• Ferry across the Channel from Dover to Calais • Luxury air-conditioned coach with WiFi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys) • Hand-picked 4 and 5 star accommodation • Hand-picked Insider Experiences • Optional Experiences and free time • All porterage and restaurant gratuities • Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras • An expert Travel Director and separate Driver • All hotel tips, charges and local taxes • VIP entry to many sights • Audio Headsets for flexible sightseeing • Pick-up if you stay at the Trafalgar recommended London hotel, booked through Trafalgar, or from the London Reception Centre • The services of a Trafalgar Local Host if you stay at Trafalgar’s recommended London hotel.

*Conditions apply.

ITINERARY 1: London – Paris (2 nights) 2: Paris sightseeing and free time 3: Paris – Lucerne 4: Lucerne – St. Gotthard – Venice 5: Venice orientation – Florence 6: Florence Sightseeing – Rome (2 nights) 7: Rome sightseeing and free time 8: Depart Rome

DINING

• 7 hot buffet breakfasts.

• 3 dinners.

For all ENQUIRIES email enquiries@seanstravel.com.au TURBULENCE | ISSUE 10 |2015 | 17

ITALIAN PRODUCE 18 | TURBULENCE | ISSUE 10 | 2015

EA S E OFFER

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Flavours of Italy - 2016 10 DAYS FROM $3,285*

EARLYBIRD

PER PERSON TWIN SHARE

Chianti in Tuscany, Prosciutto in Parma, Bolognese in Bologna, this ‘foodie’ trip explores the traditions of Italian cuisine and wine at their origin, providing an in-depth taste of a nation.

Book before 17 DeC 2015 & save up to $1,959* per couple with a 10% Early Payment Discount.

You’ll enjoy Insider moments like…

Choosing fresh local ingredients at a bustling Florence food market with Libero, a charismatic chef we know, who shares the secrets of Italian cooking as you make (and eat) ravioli together.

TRAVEL HIGHLIGHTS

• Luxury air-conditioned coach with WiFi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys) • Hand-picked 4 and 5 star accommodation • Hand-picked Insider Experiences • Optional Experiences and free time • All porterage and restaurant gratuities • Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras • An expert Travel Director and separate Driver • All hotel tips, charges and local taxes • VIP entry to many sights • Audio Headsets for flexible sightseeing PREMIUM INCLUSIONS

• City tour in Rome, Florence, Bologna and Venice • Orientation of Parma • Visit St. Peter’s Basilica, the town of Greve, the Academy of Fine Arts in Florence and the famous food markets in Venice • Cruise by private launch to St. Mark’s Square in Venice • View the ancient sites of Rome, Santa Croce Basilica and the Duomo in Florence, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the Kissing Towers in Bologna, the Byzantine St. Mark’s Basilica and the Rialto Bridge in Venice

*Conditions apply.

ITINERARY 1: A rrive Rome (2 nights), staying at Cardinal St. Peter 2: Rome Sightseeing and free time 3: Rome – Greve – San Gimignano (3 nights), staying at Relais La Cappuccina 4: Florence Sightseeing 5: Tuscan Lifestyle Experience 6: San Gimignano – Pisa – Parma 7: Parma – Bologna – Venice (3 nights), staying at Eurostars Residenza Cannaregio 8: Venice Canal Cruise and Sightseeing 9: Secret Venice Walking tour 10: Depart Venice DINING

• 9 hot buffet breakfasts • 1 lunch • 5 dinners

For all ENQUIRIES email enquiries@seanstravel.com.au TURBULENCE | ISSUE 10 |2015 | 19

EILEAN DONAN CASTLE - JAMES BOND FILM ‘THE WORLD IS NOT ENOUGH’ 20 | TURBULENCE | ISSUE 10 | 2015

EA S E OFFER

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Celtic Filmscapes - 2016 11 DAYS FROM $3,596*

EARLYBIRD

PER PERSON TWIN SHARE

Game of Thrones, Outlander, James Bond, Cloud Atlas, Chariots of Fire, Michael Collins, My Left Foot - dramatic scenery and unique locations will be revealed...

Book before 17 DeC 2015 & save up to $1,959* per couple with a 10% Early Payment Discount.

TRAVEL HIGHLIGHTS

• Luxury air-conditioned coach with WiFi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys) • Hand-picked 4 and 5 star accommodation • Hand-picked Insider Experiences • Optional Experiences and free time • All porterage and restaurant gratuities • Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras • An expert Travel Director and separate Driver • All hotel tips, charges and local taxes • VIP entry to many sights • Audio Headsets for flexible sightseeing PREMIUM INCLUSIONS

• Cinematic themed city tour in Edinburgh, Belfast, Londonderry and Dublin • Game of Thrones Experience in Castle Ward • Visit Edinburgh Castle, Culloden, Eilean Donan Castle, Glencoe and the General Post Office in Dublin • See the Scottish Parliament building, Edinburgh New Town, Scenic Scottish Highlands, Queens University Belfast and Trinity College Dublin DINING

• 10 full breakfasts.

• 5 dinners

*Conditions apply.

ITINERARY 1: A rrive Edinburgh (2 nights), staying at Novotel City Centre 2: Edinburgh sightseeing and free time 3: Edinburgh – Falkland – St. Andrews – Laggan 4: Laggan – Cairngorm National Park – Newtonmore – Culloden – Scottish Highlands (2 nights), Staying at Ben Wyvis/Loch Ness Lodge 5: Excursion to Eilean Donan Castle and the Isle of Skye 6: Scottish Highlands – Loch Ness – Glencoe – Loch Lomond – Glasgow area, Staying at Macdonal Crutherland House 7: Glasgow area – Belfast, staying at Stormont 8: Belfast – Giant’s Causeway – Londonderry/Derry, staying at Everglades 9: Londonderry/Derry – Game of Thrones Experience in Castle Ward – Dublin, Staying at Radisson Blu St. Helens 10: Dublin sightseeing and free time – Dublin Airport, staying at Maldron Dublin Airport 11: Depart Dublin

Terms and conditions. Trafalga Europe & Britain 2016 *$1,959 saving per couple ($979.50) is based on maximum 10% Early Payment Discount saving on European Supreme in a Premium cabin departing between 28 April – 23 June, 25 August - 22 September 2016 when paid in full by 17 December 2015. Subject to availability at time of booking and may be withdrawn at any time. Conditions apply; for full terms & conditions visit www.trafalgar.com. Can be combined with other brochure discounts where applicable, does not apply to extra nights’ accommodation, optional extensions, airfares, flight supplements and surcharges, taxes and fees, airport transfers and any cruise portion of a holiday. A deposit is required on booking and the full amount must be paid by 17 December 2015 to qualify.

Subject to availability at time of booking and may be withdrawn at any time.

For all ENQUIRIES email enquiries@seanstravel.com.au TURBULENCE | ISSUE 10 |2015 | 21

SUCCUMB TO

by Brett Kappler, Sean Simmons Travel’s Junior Consultant Recently, I got my first real taste of Tassie – and it was delicious. I was lucky enough to take this opportunity as a guest of Tourism Tasmania, and it completely opened my eyes to the unique world of our island brethren.

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Day 1 – Meeting MONA Despite our flight being delayed for longer than the actual time we were in the air, I was pretty excited about the days ahead.

It’s not often you get the opportunity to embark on these experiences, and I was intent on making the most of it.

My first impression of Hobart was of warmth, as it was warmer in Hobart that it was when I left Melbourne. It bode well.

We caught our coach and reached our hotel within half an hour. I was staying at the Old Woolstore Hotel.

Preferred by our corporate clients with offices in Hobart, I know some of you will be familiar with the hotel. For those of you who don’t know it, it is an apartment-style hotel

only a hop, skip and a jump from the waterfront.

Conveniently located, you have easy access to nearby restaurants, bars, cafes and, of course, the MONA ferry.

The ferry was an experience itself, with fantastic views and serving local food and beverages, including MONA’s signature craft beer – Moo Brew.

If you have a group, I’d recommend booking the ferry’s VIP area called ‘the Posh Pit’. For a little bit more you get food and

beverages included – great for holding a mixer before arriving at your destination.

Upon arrival, get ready to enter what is arguably the cornerstone of the entire Tassie ‘brand’ – the Museum of Old and New Art, more affectionately known as MONA. Getting treated with private access to the museum and all the weird and wonderful treasures within was fantastic. This place is spectacular! It is certainly not a museum in the classical sense of the word but more an esoteric art collection. The owner made his money as a professional gambler and has truly given something unique back to his community. The often wacky exhibits are truly something that have to be seen to be believed - from

TAS-MANIA! the waterfall that sprays words pulled straight from internet headlines, to the wall of monks and the fat Porsche. It can be wondrous, surreal and somewhat confronting.

with the folks from Tourism Tasmania. After the event, we were ready for some serious revelling, so we hit the town with some live music and football at the Telegraph (or the Tele as the locals call it), followed by dancing at the Observatory.

Without giving too much away, even going to the restroom was, in a word, bizarre.

Once our tour concluded, we had our official welcome reception in one of MONA’s 14 onsite function spaces – the Organ Room. Local produce, wine and beer were served as we mingled

Day 2 – Tourism Speed Dating One of the main reasons I flew down was to attend the Tassie Specialist Conference, meeting with local tourism providers and

get valuable updates on the fantastic array of hotels and tourism providers from all over the state, but there was one stop to make first – Salamanca Market.

Salamanca Market is unique in that it actively regulates the amount of cheap, imported goods that often overwhelm other markets. Like everywhere else in Tasmania, at Salamanca’s 300+ stalls you can expect to meet lots of friendly people who make or grow what they sell. My breakfast that morning consisted mainly of samples!

sectors of the industry.

One of the biggest things I discovered was that Tasmania has only nine days of the year on which there are no events.

Apparently they are working hard to close that gap! So no matter when you visit – there is bound to be something happening somewhere.

We had a packed morning at the Grand Chancellor Hotel (just around the corner from the Old Woolstore), with presentations by guest speakers from various

After a scrumptious buffet lunch (the pork belly was to die for), it was time to meet the suppliers. With over thirty operators and only time for twenty dates at six minutes apiece, it was a TURBULENCE | ISSUE 10 |2015 | 23

hectic afternoon bouncing from table to table to get the breakdown of what was on offer, and I wrapped up still feeling like I had barely scratched the surface.

Following the conference, we quickly ducked back to our rooms to prepare for a “fancy-dress” gala dinner at the stunning Henry Jones Art Hotel, housed in an old jam factory. If you find yourself staying here – be sure to check out the building’s 3D photo history up on the first level.

Again, the food was sensational – fresh oysters and succulent lamb and delicious local wines abounded.

One remarkable thing I am learning about Tasmania is that nearly everything is locally sourced – and 24 | TURBULENCE | ISSUE 10 | 2015

everyone knows each other. Tasmania is one huge community, and they embody that ‘it takes a village’ mentality when it comes to how they present themselves and their products.

Day 3 – Our Nourishing Northwest Adventure Begins Our time in Hobart concluded, it was time to head to Tassie’s northwest to experience firsthand some of the amazing attractions in the region.

While it’s about a 3-hour drive direct from Hobart to Devonport, we were making a few stops along the way.

Firstly, I just want to say that the late night followed by an early morning was

never going to be a good combination. It’s even worse when you sleep through your opportunity for breakfast and have to settle for nothing more than a strong coffee!

Secondly, I wasn’t looking forward to a long day of driving in a coach – and then I met Di, our guide.

Di is pushing seventy and is one of the most vibrant people I have ever met.

She is so passionate about Tassie that you can’t help but fall in love with her. She is everyone’s grandmother and quite a pocket rocket!

Our first stop – Curringa Farm. Run by sixthgeneration farmers, Tim and Jane Parsons, Curringa is a working 750acre sheep and cropping farm located only one hour out of Hobart. They also have four gorgeous cottages for those that fancy a country getaway.

I would recommend Curringa for families or groups of friends. Good for anyone who just needs a

quiet place to switch off, maybe do a little kayaking in the lake on the property, or just read while watching the dogs round up the sheep.

From Curringa, we headed off to Ratho Farm in Tassie’s Derwent Valley.

Ratho is Australia’s oldest golf course and a spectacular historical site. Immerse yourself in the rich history of the house that dates back to the 1800s, and stay in the beautifully outfitted convicts residences. Aside from having an awardwinning golf course, Ratho offers world-class trout fishing, genealogy workshops, or if whisky is your thing you can take a tour of the nearby Nant Distillery, which the guys at the farm are more than

happy to arrange for you.

Just watch out for snakes during summer. We had a bit of an ‘encounter’ with one of the local population during our visit, inciting a rush for higher ground Lunch that day was a long time coming, so we were starving by the time we arrived at Deloraine, almost two hours north of Ratho. We ate at Cruising in the 50s Diner. This place epitomises everything that was fantastic about the 50s. The collection of petrol bowsers, records, licence plates and memorabilia from almost every 50s icon is the personal collection of the owners. Rather than selling it, they decided to share it with their local community by turning the former museum into a diner to

keep it going. Serving American-style fare, it is an okay pitstop for those needing to stretch their legs, and is sure to hit a nostalgic nerve or two with the older baby boomers!

The rest of the afternoon was all about drinks tasting. Seven Sheds Brewery in Railton gave us a tour and a sample of the prize-winning craft beers they brew in their garage at home. The interesting thing about Seven Sheds is that they use fruits and other ingredients not traditionally associated with beer, like

raspberry, blackberry, star anise, quinoa and cacao beans. After Seven Sheds, we trekked up to the much larger commercial operation of Spreyton Cider Co for a tour and tasting of their awesome ciders. I love cider, so this was a great stop. Did you know that cider is closer to wine than beer in terms of its making? Neither did I until now!

We reached Devonport in the early evening and checked in at the Quality Hotel Gateway, where some of us got a view of the Spirit of Tasmania coming into port. A very nice hotel, and another that is favoured by our corporate clients.

They saved the best to last for our first day. Dinner at Mrs Jones in Devonport TURBULENCE | ISSUE 10 |2015 | 25

Day 4 – Whisky & History

was spectacular. I’m not usually one for photographing my food, but I did that night! The dinner gave us all a chance to relax, have a few glasses of wine and get to know each other better.

Heading back to the hotel after a long day and a huge dinner, I ran a bath, enjoying a good soak before finally hitting the (very comfy) sack.

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Given that I missed breakfast the previous day, I was thrilled that this was hard coded into the itinerary today. Within walking distance of the Gateway, the Laneway Café had everything a good café needs – strong coffee and a wonderful breakfast selection. The waffle stack with poached eggs, bacon and maple syrup, was just what the doctor ordered.

First stop today was Hellyer’s Road Distillery. I wasn’t sure about drinking whisky at 9.30 in the morning, but a single nip was enough to last the whole tour. I love scotch, and they do make a delightful drop, guaranteed to put hair on your chest.

I loved the smell of fermented barley in the air, and our guide was brilliant.

Apparently before working at Hellyer’s he didn’t like whisky – you couldn’t tell by how passionately he spoke about it.

makes an award-winning vodka and a range of other whisky-related products including Irish cream and ice-cream, so there is something for everyone in the on-site gift shop and café.

During the tasting, you also have the opportunity to pour yourself a bottle straight from the cask, sealed with wax (this is, of course, extra).

Hellyer’s Road also

Hitting the road again, we wound our way to Burnie and the Makers Workshop,

where we stopped to craft some paper, check out the local artists’ stalls and wolf down an indulgent lunch platters stacked with an assortment of

Murphy. If you find yourself in Stanley, check out the gallery – his work is stunning!

local cheeses, meats and washed down with more wine.

After Burnie, it was time to head to Stanley, the last town we would visit today. Before checking into our lodgings for the evening, we stopped at Highfield House, designed by Henry Hellyer. Walking through the rooms and grounds of this place, you can feel the history sizzle in the air around you. It’s eerie to say the least but presents opportunities for professional and amateur photographers alike to capture amazing images, especially since Highfield has views of the entire township and the Nut. We had a brief tour of the town, including a quick look through Abbey’s

Cottage (holiday houses for those who would like the facilities and comfort of a home instead of a hotel) and the Cow & Calf Art Gallery, run by local photographer David

Our accommodation tonight is the Stanley Seaview Inn. Comfortable, but nothing flashy. If you want to spend a bit more, they offer luxury selfcontained accommodation called Horizon Deluxe Apartments a little further up the road. These apartments have modern

appointments including a spa and have fantastic views. According to the owners, they are very popular with honeymooners.

Dinner tonight was at the Stanley Hotel Bistro in town. Probably some of the best pub grub I’ve had and filling portions as well. While the half lobster was tempting, I eventually settled on the scallops and pavlova – very, very tasty.

While Stanley Hotel is bound to satisfy, there are a couple of other places around town, such as Xanders. Another night of good food and wine before heading back to the hotel and watching a movie before bed.

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Day 5 – Nature, the Nut and a taste of the Pod Life At some point during the previous evening, some of us (myself included) agreed that getting up at 5.30 am and heading back to Highfield House to photograph the sunrise over the Nut was a good idea. Turns out it was a, even though it was freezing! Wendy, our esteemed driver, went the extra mile (quite literally) to drive us up there.

Unfortunately, while I had plugged the cable into the back of the camera before bed, I had failed to switch the charger on at the wall.

As luck would have it, one minute to sunrise my camera died, so I had to rely on my phone.

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in the lush rainforest and watched the Paddymelons feed. For those who are fans of cycling, there is a mountain bike trail is you’re feeling adventurous.

We took a detour to the local cemetery on our way back to the hotel to soak up a little more local history, and after a long hot shower to warm ourselves up, we sat down to a hearty buffet breakfast.

The Stanley Seaview does a continental breakfast normally, but for groups they can organise a hot breakfast on a catered basis, so they’ll require notice if this is what you’re after.

Leaving Stanley for a while, we travelled the Bass Highway all the way to Tarkine Forest Adventures at the Dismal Swamp.

Despite its name, it is a lovely area if, like myself,

you like getting into nature.

After taking the slide (yes, a slide) from the visitors centre to the forest floor, we immersed ourselves

We did lunch and a quick tour of Tall Timbers Hotel, popular with families and business travellers alike.

We then headed back to Stanley. After taking photos of the Nut from Highfield House, it was time now to see with a view from the top. For this, you can either take the walking trail, or there’s the shortcut, which we took - The Nut Chairlift. After snapping a few photos, it was time to say au revoir to Stanley.

Our last night’s accommodation was at The Waterfront Wynyard.

Seriously, I can’t

recommend this place highly enough. Our hosts Justin and Cyndia were incredible, and everything they do makes you feel like you are coming home instead of staying away from it.

Some of us, myself included, were lucky enough to win the chance to stay in one of their premium suites. Separate from the main hotel, these units are self-contained coastal ‘pods’, built from converted shipping containers. These pods are designed, built and decorated by our hosts, and are luxurious and wonderfully modern with so much personality.

After settling in, we walked up to Purple Sage for

dinner. Hosted by the Cradle Coast Authority, the restaurant was opened especially for us and again the food blew us away. Given that it was our last night in Tasmania, we celebrated quite a bit. I was also lucky enough to catch up with my friend Kylie from the West Coast Wilderness Railway. While we didn’t get to enjoy the rail during this trip, the experience is worth a mention and is highly recommended for anyone visiting the area!

We were surprised on our return to the hotel that our hosts had left marshmallows out for us to roast in the fire pit. With the pods being set slightly

away from the main rooms, we were able to enjoy a late evening outdoors without disturbing other guests. It was a magical way to spend our last night.

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Day 6 – The Mad Rush before Home Our Tassie adventure is almost over, but we still have a packed morning before the flight back to Melbourne at 1 pm. After our final breakfast, we took a few more photos and were waved off by our extraordinary hosts.

Shortly, we arrived at House of Anvers in Latrobe. Igor, the owner, gave us the tour of his little piece of chocolate heaven.

Over a tonne of handmade chocolate gets made onsite every year – and he uses one of the finest chocolates in the world, Fortunato No. 4. You can also enjoy an Anvers hot chocolate and other sweet treats in the onsite café. I highly recommend the chai latte fudge, but you can’t 30 | TURBULENCE | ISSUE 10 | 2015

go wrong whatever you try. I bought a large tray to take home, and it didn’t last five minutes. You’ll never eat Cadbury again.

Next was a quick shopping stop at Ashgrove Cheese, where I stocked up on gourmet cheeses for home and another pit stop to grab some chocolate covered raspberries from Christmas Hills Raspberry Farm. From there it was time for a quick lunch before final goodbyes at Launceston Airport.

Lunch was at Phoenix & the Wolf in Perth, just outside of Launceston.

It was the perfect way to end our trip, and I’d highly recommend it to anyone in the area with some time to kill before a flight.

The building is a former chapel, and the food is

organic, fresh and either grown on site or sourced from local growers. They even bake their bread on the premises in a woodfired oven out the back.

The flavours are natural, earthy and delicious.

Those three words just about sum up the entire Tasmanian experience.

Natural, earthy and delicious. The land is lush; the food is world class, and the people we’ve met along the way are phenomenally friendly. Especially Di and Wendy (our guide and driver) and Nicki, our group’s representative from Tourism Tasmania – together they held such a wealth of knowledge that enriched everything we saw.

Even though I think I put on about five kilos during my trip, Tasmania is truly a dish that has left me hungry for more, and I can’t wait to go back for seconds.

Hi guys, Do you want more information about any of the places, hotels or tours listed in this article? Give me a call, I’ll be happy to answer any of your questions.

And heads up, if you are looking for a unique venue for a conference or event with a difference, let’s talk about MONA. It is guaranteed to impress!

I’ve learned that Tasmania is deceptively small, so when planning a tour, you need to look at drive times. You don’t want to be rushing between stops, so make sure you budget enough time for enjoying yourself! It’s worth taking an extra day or two to do everything you want than trying to cram too much into one day.

Tasmania has something for everyone, so whether you’re an adventurer, a nature lover, history buff, art connoisseur, foodie or any combination thereof – there is going to be something that will set your heart afire. Plus, you could travel Tassie for a month and still have stuff left over for another trip!

If you’re looking at touring Tasmania make sure you give me a call first.

I’d love to put something special together for you. As a certified ‘Tassie Specialist’, I’ll be able to craft a unique journey based not only on my personal experience but through the wealth of contacts I have built throughout our spectacular and often overlooked island state.

I look forward to hearing from you soon!

Best regards, Brett

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Employees have long enjoyed the benefits of travel booked by their employer through frequent flyer programs. Airlines are beginning to recognise what side their bread is buttered on and are now offering loyalty programs for companies. Here’s our top Five.

LUFTHANSA PARTNER PLUS BENEFIT Quick facts • Register, then let Sean Simmons Travel know your unique corporate tracking code and entry format • Accrue BenefitPoints on flights operated by (and with ticket numbers of) Lufthansa, Austrian, and Swiss.

• BenefitPoints can be used by all employees of your company • BenefitPoints are valid for 36 months after a tracked flight • Your employees continue to earn miles on their personal Miles&More accounts

AIRFRANCE KLM BLUEBIZ Quick facts • Simply register and advise Sean Simmons Travel of your BlueBiz number

services, priority services, free name change (on selected flights) and many more benefits • As with other programs, your employees continue to earn miles on their Flying Blue membership

Qantas Aquire Quick facts: • Earn Aquire points for things such as your business travel and other business expenses through a range of partners • Transfer Aquire points into any Qantas frequent flyer account on a 1:1 ratio • Enjoy a range of rewards for yourself, your staff or your family • Joining fee is only $89.50

ETIHAD BUSINESSCONNECT Quick facts

• Earn Blue Credits on flights operated by Air France, KLM and partner airlines (including Delta and Alitalia)

• Etihad BusinessConnect is free to join, and you can redeem miles earned for free flights, upgrades, gifts from their reward store or even cash using PointsPay

• Your company can redeem Blue Credits for free flights!

• Continue to book your travel through Sean Simmons Travel as normal

• Your company and employees receive many benefits including ‘book now, pay later’, flight status notification

• Companies must be a member of BusinessConnect, and travellers must be a member of Etihad Guest

• The traveller continues to earn 100% of the miles for themselves

For more information on any of these programs, please contact us!

• Your business earns an additional percentage of miles over and above what the individual traveller earns, depending on whether travel is in a premium or economy cabin

Virgin Australia Accelerate Quick facts: • Designed for small to medium sized companies with an annual travel spend of between $20,000 and $300,000 • Earn Virgin Australia accelerate rebates when you reach expenditure targets • Free to join for eligible Australian registered companies • Enjoy discounted Virgin Australia lounge memberships for your employees • Your employees continue to earn Velocity points and status credits • Upon joining companies will receive two complimentary Pilot Gold memberships (a three month trial of Velocity Gold membership)

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SEAN’s

TRAVEL TIPS Pedaling around the country or the world?

-Sean’s Guide on HOW TO FLY WITH A Push BIKE.

Flying around the globe sampling the great cycling trails of the world may sound incredible – and it is. It does take a little bit more planning than one might expect. Here are our tips to make sure you avoid the horror traps and make your global exploration as fun and hassle-free as possible.

Reserve space on the flight Nothing will ruin a biking trip faster than arriving at the airport and being told there is no room on the flight for your bike. If you are planning to fly with your bike, let us know when you are making your booking.

Airlines have strict rules often including allowing only a limited number bikes per flight, so reserving space is essential.

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Protecting your baby If you are a cycling enthusiast then chances are your bike is your pride and joy, so pack it well to minimise any possibility of damage. There are three main options for packaging – a well-padded bike box, a soft-cover bike bag or a hard-shell bike container. A bike box is the most costeffective. Often you can get this free if you ask your local cycle shop nicely! A hard-shell bike container is the most costly, not just

in terms of purchasing the container but the excess baggage costs that come with having a heavier case – some cases come in at 13kg or more and can cost up to $1,000.

Your choice of packaging will probably be proportionate to the (actual and perceived) value of your bike and the potential amount of travel. If you are only flying with your bike once, a bike box will more than do the trick.

However, if you intend to

cycle your way around the world, or your bike is worth more than the rest of your belongings combined, we strongly recommend purchasing a bike bag. A good EVOC bike bag will set you back somewhere in the realm of $500. Consider it an investment in reduced stress.

Mind your budget When planning a cycling adventure, know this – you are going to pay.

How much you will need to fork out depends on the baggage policy of the airline. As discussed in our August edition – luggage rules vary depending on the airline, the aircraft and class of travel, so when planning your cycling vacation look at the ticket

price plus the cost of taking your bike with you to ensure you are getting the most value out of your travel dollar.

The biggest tip we can give you is to do a test pack and finding out what the total weight and dimensions are - that way you’ll have a better idea of what your costs are going to be.

Allow plenty of time This is an easy one - get to the airport as early as you can. To avoid having ground crew subtly (or not so subtly) roll their eyes, arrive a couple of hours early for your flight to avoid the rush at the counter.

That way, it also allows plenty of time to sort out any issues – in the event they arise.

Be nice to the ground crew Whatever you think the policy is, the actual interpretation of the rules is determined by the ground crew. Be prepared - arrive early, be pleasant and don’t forget your brightest smile – it can go a long way. Your fate is, after all, in their hands.

If you find yourself in a situation where you think you’re being overcharged, it’s better to take a deep breath and investigate later – your priority is making sure you, and your bike, get on the flight. If it turns out the ground crew have made an error, you may be reimbursed later.

For more information on flying with bicycles (or anything else unusual for that matter, please be sure to call and speak to one of our fantastic team.

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#myseanstravel #myseanstravel – because it’s all about you.

This year we aim to personalise your travel experience even further than before. We are inviting you to share your photos, experiences and feedback with us and the rest of the Sean Simmons Travel community across all our social media platforms.

When you post about your travel to Facebook, Twitter or Instagram – let your travel expert and fellow travellers know by using the hashtag #myseanstravel You are our biggest inspiration, and we are striving to create a unique and personal travelling community. With your involvement, not only are you inspiring others with your travel experiences, you are helping us hone our tailored services so we can better meet your travel needs.

If that isn’t enough, we may have a few surprises coming up exclusively for our social media community – so join us and get tagging.

How do you find us? there are many different ways for you to connect with us online. Simply click the links below to be taken directly to our social media profiles.

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GRAMMARLY YOUR GATEWAY TO BETTER WRITING Grammarly may not be a mobile app or travel related.

However, it is worth a look by anyone for whom writing is an important part of their study or job. In other words, practically everyone.

Grammarly uses advanced grammar rules to not only check but actively improve your writing. Grammarly corrects everything from passive voice to contextual spelling and sentence structure – covering more than 250 common grammar errors!

It also offers suggestions to improve vocabulary and can even detect plagiarism (great for teachers!).

Grammarly is a freemium product. For those unfamiliar with the term, freemium products offer both a free version with limited functionality with the option to pay for the full range of features and support.

The free version of Grammarly is every bad teacher you ever had in school.

You know the one I mean – the teacher that points out that you’re wrong without ever explaining why. It’s kind of like going to school for the full time but only getting half an education. The free version lets you know how many issues there are in your writing. Until you upgrade, though, that’s all you’re going to get.

The free version is great if all you need is a couple of pointers, and you know enough to brush things up yourself. If your job relies on the quality of your writing, then getting the full version is more than worth it. Just ask our editors.

The full version is the best teacher you ever had.

Did you ever have that awesome English teacher who made you want to be a better writer? If not, then this is the next best thing.

“Grammarly is like that kid I cheated off in school!”

Actual Grammarly testimonial

Not only does it show where and how you can improve your writing, but it also comes with a handy plugin for your Office Suite, so there is no more copying and pasting. It also allows you to customise which features you want to search for within your document or email. Brilliantly, you can also select your style of writing – be it business, technical, medical or creative – and Grammarly will adjust its rule logic to suit.

The only downside to the Office plugin vs. the Grammarly website is that it switches off a couple of features in Office while the plugin is enabled, namely Undo and Auto-Save (so, no Ctrl+Z). Copying and pasting into the website has one other distinct advantage – it offers a grade of your work with encouraging comments based on your score. It also lets you know in what areas you need the most improvement.

To try out Grammarly for yourself, visit www.grammarly.com Add Grammarly to Safari HERE

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FLIGHT DECK

Travel information & Industry News

UNITED AIRLINES ENTERS NEW ZEALAND MARKET Air New Zealand welcomes an announcement by United Airlines that it will enter the New Zealand market, launching a San Francisco – Auckland service from July next year.

The two airlines have a

longstanding partnership and in April this year signed a Statement of Intent to deepen and further define this alliance on routes between New Zealand and mainland USA. United Airlines supported Air New Zealand in launching its new Auckland – Houston service and

PREORDER YOUR NEXT QANTAS MEAL WITH SELECT ON Q-EAT Select on Q-Eat allows customers to pre-order their meal prior to flying, offering more choice, including an additional dish available as an online exclusive on select routes.

Customers can pre-order their choice of meal between seven days and 12 hours prior to departure via Manage Your Booking at qantas.com.

Select on Q-Eat is now being offered on all international flights in Business and Premium Economy flights (with the exception of Tasman, Noumea and JFK-LAX-JFK sectors).

Here’s what you need to know: • You must be travelling on an eligible Qantas operated international service.

• Select on Q - Eat is available to Business, Premium Economy and Economy customers travelling on a confirmed commercial ticket on selected flights.

• The Select on Q-Eat service is available via ‘Manage Your Booking’ on qantas.com, and requests can be made or changed between 7 days and 12 hours prior to departure.

• While Qantas will make reasonable efforts to fulfil all meal requests, meal choices cannot be guaranteed. If you change your flight or departure date then your request will be cancelled. You must re-submit your order via ‘Manage Your Booking’.

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today’s announcement is another important step in expanding the partnership with the airlines working together to promote both carriers’ services between Auckland and San Francisco.

Air New Zealand Chief Executive Officer Christopher Luxon says the US is New Zealand’s third largest tourism source market and to have a partner carrier with a network like United Airlines promoting destination New Zealand and attracting

visitors through its immense sales and distribution channels will provide a significant boost to inbound tourism.

Subject to United Airlines obtaining the necessary regulatory approvals it will begin operating a three times weekly 787-8 service between San Francisco and Auckland from July, moving to daily services operated by a larger 787-9 aircraft from November 2016.

• If Qantas changes your flight or departure date then Qantas will endeavour to fulfil your order as originally made. However, for operational reasons your meal choice may not be available on your new flight.

• Select on Q-Eat is separate from the special meal options for dietary requirements. If you require a special meal order please make this choice via ‘Manage Your Booking’.

• If you have already chosen a special meal or a special meal is loaded in your profile then you will not be eligible to pre-order your meal unless the special meal is removed from the profile.

If both orders appear in your booking your Select on Q-Eat order will be cancelled.

• If you have chosen ‘No meal - maximise my rest’ and you change your mind then Qantas will still offer refreshment items on board however a full meal may not be available for you.

• If you have pre-ordered a meal and change your mind on board then crew will make reasonable endeavours to accommodate your change, however they may not be able to fulfil your request to provide an alternative full meal.

This is a great innovation - ask your Travel Expert if Select on Q-Eat is available on your next Qantas flight!

“To awake alone in a strange town is one of the pleasantest sensations in the world.”

Freya Stark

CATHAY BEGINS SECOND 777-300ER SERVICE TO SYDNEY Cathay Pacific has commenced a second Boeing 777-300ER rotation to Sydney. Flight CX101 from Hong Kong, operated

by B-KQR, arrived at Sydney a little after 1030 local time on Friday, 2 October. The reciprocal CX100 took off from the NSW capital just past 1600.

“Having two 777-300ER flights will help cater to the increasing demand from our passengers wanting the best morning or night connections to our large network” Cathay Pacific general manager for Southwest Pacific Nelson Chin said in a statement.

“It also serves those who simply wish to make the most of a whole day’s work or play in Hong Kong.”

Cathay’s three-class Boeing 777-300ERs have 340 seats (40 business, 32 premium economy, 268 economy), compared with either 242 seats (39 business, 28 premium economy, 175 economy) or 251 seats (39 business, 21 premium economy, 191 economy) on the A330-300s used to serve Australia.

The oneworld alliance member switched one of its four Sydney services to the 777-300ER in December 2014.

The airline flies 74 times a week to Australia and has utilised the full amount of available frequencies to the country’s four major gateways – Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney – for Hong Kong designated carriers.

Therefore, any increase in capacity will have to come through larger aircraft and not additional flights.

TRAVEL LOL: THE WINDOW SEAT

WHISKEY TANGO FOXTROT: CHINA’S ‘CARMAGEDDON’ If you thought your post-holiday commute was bad – you haven’t seen anything yet.

Thousands of Chinese holidaymakers, returning home from a week-long break, recently found themselves stuck in a seemingly endless traffic jam - spanning the entire width of a 50-lane expressway.

This ultimate snarl-up earned itself the grand title of ‘Carmageddon’.

The drivers were among an estimated 750 million people half of China’s population - who headed away for the weeklong National Day festival, which marks the founding of the Chinese republic.

But they had little to celebrate on their return home when they encountered the extraordinary gridlock on the G4 Beijing-Hong Kong-Macau Expressway.

It was caused by motorists queuing at a toll booth, where the 2272-kilometre highway tapers into just 20 lanes - causing a huge bottleneck, and a massive headache for those trying to get home.

And the China Daily newspaper reports this is just the beginning of the gridlock, with more vacationers returning home over the coming days.

It puts a 28-kilometre New South Wales traffic jam in January to shame.

But the latest congestion pales in comparison to a 100-kilometre traffic jam on the Beijing-Tibet highway in 2011, which took 12 days to clear, with some vehicles reportedly only moving a single kilometre on one day in traffic.

That’s one long game of I Spy.

An elderly man from China has taken it upon himself to secure a seat on his next flight – by bringing one from home.

Skeptical that all the seats on his flight would sell out, the man turned up at Guangzhou Airport to board his flight with a dining chair from his home setting, worried there would be no seat on the plane for him. Of course, he was told by security the chair couldn’t come on the plane, and he’d have to check it into the hold. The main returned to the gate later with the chair wrapped up, saying he was worried his chair would be damaged if checked.

Once assured there was no standing room, and everyone would get a seat, the man let his children seeing him off take the chair back home.

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SEAN SIMMONS TRAVEL

WORLD EVENTS CALENDAR Tokyo International Film Festival, Tokyo, Japan 22 - 31 October 2015

Great Orchestras of the World Lisbon, Portugal November to April

Pirates Week Festival Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands 12 - 22 November 2015

The Great American Beer Festival Denver, Colorado 24 - 26 October 2015

Melbourne Cup Melbourne, Victoria 3 November 2015

Ljubljana International Film Festival (LIFFe Ljubljana, Slovenia 12 - 23 November 2015

Naga Fireball Festival Chiang Mai, Thailand 26 - 27 October 2015 Le Salon du Chocolat Paris, France 28 October to 1 November 2015 Vinos y Bodegas Wine Exhibition Buenos Aires, Argentina 30 October to 1 November 2015 Anoka Halloween Parade Minneapolis-St Paul, Minnesota 31 October 2015 Silom Soi 4 Halloween Bangkok, Thailand 31 October annually Indiana Pacers NBA Basketball, Indiana Fever WNBA Basketball Indianapolis, Indiana November to April ING New York City Marathon New York City, New York 1 November 2015 Tivoli Christmas Market Denmark November to December 2015 Day of the Dead Mexico City, Mexico 1 - 2 November annually

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Global Village Dubai Dubai, United Arab Emirates 3 November 2015 - 9 April 2016

Contemporary Istanbul Istanbul, Turkey 12 - 15 November 2015

JazzFest Berlin Berlin, Germany 5 - 8 November 2015

Lord Mayor’s Show London, England 14 November 2015

Kona Coffee Cultural Festival Big Island, Hawaii 6 - 15 November 2015

Brazilian F1 Grand Prix Sao Paulo, Brazil 15 November 2015

All Souls Procession Weekend Tucson, Arizona 7 - 8 November 2015 Sparks in the Park Cardiff, Wales 7 November 2015 Diwali (Festival of Lights) Delhi, India 9 - 11 November 2015 Country Living Magazine Christmas Fair London, England 11 - 15 November 2015 Cairo International Film Festival Cairo, Egypt 11 - 20 November 2015 Rock n Roll Las Vegas Marathon Las Vegas, Nevada 12 - 15 November 2015

Arrival of St Nicholas Amsterdam, Netherlands 15 November 2015 Bangkok Marathon Bangkok, Thailand 16 November 2015 Riyadh Motor Show Riyadh, Saudi Arabia 18 - 21 November 2015 Cannabis Cup Amsterdam, Netherlands 20 - 25 November 2015 (TBC) Magnificent Mile Lights Festival Chicago, Illinois 21 November 2015 Independence Day Beirut, Lebanon 22 November Jewellery Arabia Manama, Bahrain 24 - 28 November 2015

Water and Moon Festival Phnom Penh, Cambodia 24 November 2015 Kirstenbosch Summer Sunset Concerts Cape Town, South Africa November 2015 to April 2016 Loy Krathong Chiang Mai, Thailand 25 - 27 November 2015 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade New York City, New York 26 November 2015 Christmas Fair Frankfurt, Germany Late November and December 2015 Prague Christmas Markets Prague, Czech Republic 28 November 2015 to 1 January 2016 Florence Marathon Florence, Italy 29 November 2015 Pohutukawa Dive Festival New Zealand 29 November to 7 December 2015