Travel Centres 2016 pre-conference brochure

MEET • NETWORK • DO BUSINESS

2016 CONFERENCE

12TH ANNUAL CONFERENCE, MULLINGAR PARK HOTEL

11TH 12 TH NOV

12TH CONFERENCE ANNUAL

This years’ two-day event takes place in the comfortable surroundings of the 4-star Mullingar Park hotel which is located just off the main Dublin to Sligo road, the N4. Mullingar is a thriving market town of approximately 20,000 and is the administrative capital of the county of Westmeath, famous for its surrounding lakes and angling activities. This year’s venue is centrally located in the Midlands and you can expect the following journey times to Mullingar, depending on your origin point in Ireland:

The two-day event manages to combine an optimum mix of product training workshops, illuminating talks from a wide array of experts (from both within and without the industry), ample time to socialise against a backdrop of some of the best entertainment provided anywhere in the British isles along with the

From Dublin From Dundalk From Sligo From Limerick From Galway From Waterford From Cork

“What a brilliant weekend. I am one very tired lady today! Well done to Dominic, Bernie and Jocelyn on a FANTASTIC conference. My poor feet are still in pain as a result of the endless dancing on Saturday night to The Monster Hits (who were unreal!!)

(77 km) (91 km) (131 km) (156 km) (156 km) (192 km) (239 km)

— travel time — travel time — travel time — travel time — travel time — travel time — travel time

= 1 hr = 1.25 hrs = 1.75 hrs = 2 hrs = 2 hrs = 2.25 hrs = 2.5 hrs

The town is also well served by bus (http://www.buseireann.ie/ ) rail services (http://www.irishrail.ie/) Also, check out discounted car hire rates with one of our supplier partners, Hertz.

renewal of old friendships and the cultivation of new ones. In short, the annual Travel Centres conference is an event not to be missed!

But don’t just take our word for it. This is what some of our suppliers, agent delegates and invited guests had to say about last years’ conference:

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NOTES FOR EXHIBITORS The supplier workshop which takes place on the Saturday operates on the tried and tested ‘speed-dating’ concept whereby travel agent participant’s move from exhibitor table to table at 10-minute intervals.

SATURDAY

12TH

“What a fantastic success. Quite honestly, the best and most enjoyable travel trade workshop and conference in Ireland.”

Each 10-minute interval is monitored and a prompt given to both exhibitor and agent participants at the eight-minute mark so that exhibitors can start to wrap up their presentations in readiness for the next batch of agents.

Exhibitors’ ‘stations’ are organised in four parallel rows and in alphabetical sequence. Agent participants are provided with exact facsimiles of passports which contain a brief summary description of each participating supplier/ exhibitor — also arranged in alphabetical sequence. Each exhibitor page contains a

space where the agent needs to place a visa stamp in order to prove that they have visited that exhibitors’ stand. Only passports with a minimum number of visa stamps are eligible to be entered into the draw for spot prizes that takes place at the end of the workshop on Saturday afternoon — thus incentivising agents to accumulate as many visits to exhibitor stations as possible. As the number of exhibitors in attendance is greater than the time available in which to visit them all, agencies who send multiple staff members are split in order to cover the maximum number of exhibitors between them. This ensures an optimum audience of attentive and engaged agent participants throughout the day.

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NOTES FOR AGENTS As this is the only opportunity each year that member agents get to network and engage with all our preferred suppliers and third party exhibitors on a one-to-one basis, it is extremely important that members avail of the opportunity and encourage the maximum number of staff to attend.

MULLINGAR PARK HOTEL

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‘’Word on the street and all over social media is that you outdid yourselves on this year’s conference. Fantastic feedback from everyone regarding the whole weekend.’’

Aside from the huge amount of information and marketing collateral that participating agents gather on the day which ultimately contributes to increased effectiveness in sales throughout the following 12-month period, agents also get to develop their own relationships with key preferred supplier personnel — an extremely valuable asset to have when problems arise! Of course, the social dimension to the weekend cannot be overstated and members get to enjoy some of the best cuisine and entertainment throughout the weekend in the comfortable

surroundings of one of Ireland’s most popular 4-star hotels — temporary headquarters earlier this year to the entire Irish rugby squad and entourage. If it’s good enough for them, it should be good enough for us! This year, in recognition of it being the 100th anniversary of the 1916 Rising, our conference theme is 100% Irish so don’t forget to get into the spirit of things on the Saturday night and ‘dress up’ for the gala dinner in something that epitomises some aspect of contemporary Irish culture!

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PROVISIONAL PROGRAMME*

ANNUAL AWARDS Over the past few years, we have tried, as equitably as possible, to recognise the year-round efforts of both member agents and preferred suppliers at our annual conference. ‘Last year, we both dramatically reduced and changed the number of award categories up for grabs and we will be continuing in similar vein for 2016. The only change to previous years is that

Friday, November 11 09.30 - 10.00 Registration 10.00 - 10.15 Welcome & Year Review 10.15 - 11.30 Closed session # 1** 11.30 - 11.45 Refreshment Break 11.45 - 13.00 Closed session # 2** 13.00 - 14.00 Lunch 14.00 - 14.45 Presentation # 1 14.45 - 15.30 Presentation # 2 15.30 - 15.45 Refreshment Break 15.45 - 16.30 Presentation # 3 16.30 - 17.00 Panel Discussion/Q & A 17.00 Session ends 17.00 - 19.30 At your leisure 19.30 - 20.30 Drinks reception 20.30 - 22.30 Dinner th

we hope to reveal a new trophy design that will be unique to Travel Centres and further reinforce our brand identity amongst both agent and supplier partners.

Saturday, November 12th 08.40 - 09.20 Registration 09.20 - 11.10 Workshop Session # 1 11.10 - 11.20 Presentation # 1 11.20 - 13.00 Workshop Session # 2 13.00 - 14.00 Lunch 14.00 - 15.30 Workshop Session # 3 15.30 - 15.40 Presentation # 2 15.40 - 16.00 Prize Draw 16.00 - 17.00 Free Format Session 17.00 - 19.30 At your leisure 19.30 - 20.30 Cocktail reception 20.30 - 22.30 Gala Dinner 22.30 - 23.00 Awards Ceremony 23.00 - 01.00 Dance Entertainment 01.00 - 03.00 Disco

Notes *subject to change **for Travel Centres members only 9

NON-DELEGATE PROGRAMME The 4 Star Mullingar Park Hotel has earned a strong reputation as one of the leading hotels in Westmeath. Situated on the outskirts of Mullingar town in County Westmeath. Located just off exit 15 on the N4, Dublin to Sligo road, less than an hour from Dublin. It is easily accessible with free Wi-Fi and car parking.

This contemporary designed 4 star hotel is elegantly decorated, tastefully furnished and fully equipped to international standards. It boasts 95 guest bedrooms, award winning terrace restaurant, horseshoe bar & courtyard lounge overlooking private landscaped gardens. The hotel has a range of conference & banqueting suites to choose from making it the perfect location to celebrate your wedding in Westmeath. The Azure Leisure Club boasts a 20 metre pool, separate children’s pool,

sauna, steam room and fully equipped gymnasium.

The Azure Beauty Rooms offers a wide range of treatments for both men and women.

Hotel Facilities at a Glance: • Complimentary Wi-Fi for guests and conference delegates • Complimentary car parking on site • Award winning Terrace Restaurant • Contemporary Horseshoe Bar • Azure Leisure Club with swimming pool • Azure Beauty Treatment Rooms • Conference centre catering up to 1,200 delegates • AA Business Hotel of the Year • Excellent wedding facilities • Private landscaped gardens • 95 superbly appointed bedrooms

Golf The Mullingar Park Hotel is a perfect base for the golfer to experience the likes of Mullingar Golf Club, Esker Hills Golf Club, New Forest Golf Club, Glasson Golf Club and a wide range of championship golf courses.

Mullingar Golf Club A championship challenge set in old wooded and delightful undulating parklands. Generous rolling fairways wind their paths through mature timbers.

It hosts important amateur events annually in the shape of the Mullingar Scratch Cup. Visitors are very welcome. Prior arrangement required. +353 (0)44 934 8366 www.mullingargolfclub.com Edenderry Golf Club The Golfing “Gem” of the Midlands established since 1940 less than 30 minutes from the hotel off the M4 motorway +353 (0)46 973 3911 www.edenderrygolfclub.ie Moate Golf Club +353 (0)90 648 1271 www.moategolfclub.ie

New Forest Golf Club Designed by world renowned designer and former Walker Cup Captain, Peter McEvoy, this Westmeath venue is a parkland gem, its undulating features highlighting some of the finest putting surfaces and fairways in Ireland.

In addition, the Clubhouse a converted 18th Century Manor House, boasts luxury locker rooms facilities, an all-encompassing restaurant and a conservatory bar with panoramic views.

Situated in stunning forested surroundings in Tyrellspass, Co. Westmeath, the golf club lies less than 5 minutes from the M6 motorway.

Containing a top quality driving range, short game area, practice putting greens and pro shop with all the latest equipment & apparel wear, it really is a haven for the discerning golfer. +353 (0)44 92 21100 www.newforest.ie

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THINGS TO DO IN MULLINGAR Mullingar Greyhound Stadium Mullingar Greyhound Racing Stadium is firmly established as one of the leading entertainment venues in the Midlands. The Greyhound Stadium offers a panoramic view of all the racing action, 3 superb licensed bars, and restaurant and snack bar facilities. An ideal venue for social and corporate outings with packages available to suit all tastes. Families welcome, group discounts available. Mullingar stadium provides thrilling dog racing action +353(0) 44 934 8348 www.igb.ie/mullingar

Belvedere House The Estate comprises 160 acres of parkland with 6kms of magnificent woodland and lakeshore walks, including the Narnia Trail. Several follies adorn the landscape including Ireland’s largest folly, The Jealous Wall. The restored Belvedere House is an 18th Century hunting / fishing lodge designed by the renowned German architect Richard Castle for Robert Rochfort, later the 1st Earl of Belvedere. A fascinating walled garden, designed by Ninian Nevin in 1857, contains one of Ireland’s finest collections of rare and special plants. The stable block is home to a modern visitor centre with multi- media show, exhibitions and fully licensed cafe. Adjacent to the visitor centre are two children’s play areas. There is also a delightful tram, which provides guided tours around a section of the parkland on selected days throughout the year. +353(0) 44 934 9060 www.belvedere-house.ie

Sailing & Angling

Equestrian

Mullingar is surrounded by large and prolific limestone lakes. These include Lough Owell, Ennell, MountDalton and Sheelin. The river angler can fish along the Inny, Brosna and Deel. Open season extends March to September.

Ladestown Riding Stables Ladestown House is a historic manor house offering riding in woodlands and by lake shores in the beautiful County Westmeath. Beginners, nervous riders and children are welcome.

Sailing Club Mullingar A small friendly club situated at Lough Owel just outside Mullingar. The water quality is excellent as the lake forms the reservoir for Mullingar water supply. Facilities include clubhouse, hard standing and launching slipway. Adult and junior training programs are run annually. +353(0) 44 9342058 www.msail.net Lough Ennell Good trout fishing with good hatches of buzzers, mayfly and sedges, but can be difficult to rise trout at times. The season runs from 1st of March to 12th of October. Best Times: April – 12th of October with very good fishing in the last two weeks of the season. A Shannon Regional Fisheries Board permit is required and can be purchased online. (3,540 acres 1,434; hectares).

+353(0) 44 934 8218 www.ladestownridingstables.com Mullingar Equestrian Centre The Fagan Family extend a warm welcome to all horse lovers at Mullingar Equestrian Centre situated in the heart of Ireland just one hours drive from Dublin city. During the summer months they specialise in residential horse riding & English courses for 10 to 18 year olds. Guests usually stay for two weeks to more. They offer equestrian day trips, tuition in flatwork & Show jumping. +353(0) 44 934 8331 www.mullingarequestrian.com

Clay Pigeon Shooting and Paintball Lakelands Shooting Centre +353 (0)44 922 3127 www.lakelandshootingcentre.ie Ambushed Paintballing & Laser Tag +353(0) 44 933 4966 www.paintballing.ie

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Thalgo Facials Prescriptive Mini Thalgo Facial (30 min) ¤40 Mini facial to suit your individual skin care needs

AZURE LEISURE & BEAUTY A selection of some of the treatments that are on offer. Please see brochure or website for full list.

At our Beauty Rooms, Experienced therapist are waiting to pamper and rejuvenate your body, mind and spirit with a range of therapies and treatments.

Hours Open daily from 10am. Late nights and sunday available for bookings.

Hydra Mask Moisture Source Facial (60 min) ¤65 A truly hydrating moistur is ing treatment , excellent to help combat dehydration and improve skin texture. Suitable for all skin types.

Rebalancing Facial (60 min) ¤65 Combining pure natural seaweed, this treatment rebalances and deep cleanses It is i deal for combination, oily and problem skin types Algamea Warm Mask (60 min) ¤65 For Dry skin. This delicious mask deeply nourishes and moisturises and the skin instantly Cold Marine Facial (60 min) ¤65 Based on reviving marine & plant extracts, incorporates a cool mint ma sk to reduce redness, refine & tighten te nsion line s , particularly for fragile, delicate skin types .

New Skin base Microdermabrasion (30 min ) 1 treatment ¤55 3 treatments ¤160 6 treatmen ts ¤300 New Microdermabrasion has arrived. Amazing results for skin pigmentation, blemishes, uneven skin tone, wrinkles, acne scaring & black heads New Sports Massage (30 min ) ¤30 One hour ¤55 De-stress treatment (60 min) ¤65 Thalgo Mini Facial, Back Neck & Shoulder massage Swedish Massage An Invigorating Massage which releases muscle stiffness and tension. Improves circulation, & flexibility promotes general relaxation Full Body (60 min) ¤65 Back (30 min) ¤40 Look Out for our Monthly Specials .

Hot Stone Massage A Soothing massage using heated ancient basalt stones. The stones are placed on the charka points of the body, which help with total re balancing of both body and mind Full Body (1 hour) ¤ 75 15 Back (30 min) ¤45

TRAVEL CENTRES Travel Centres is Ireland’s largest travel agency grouping, comprising 56 independently-owned and managed travel agencies who, between them, operate from 76 outlets throughout the country.

The group’s collective retail sales exceed ¤200M per annum. Earlier this year, Travel Centres undertook a comprehensive rebuild of its consumer facing website presence so that the new website www. travelbug.ie is 100% response across all form factors.

Work is already underway on a second, B2B website which will use the www.travelcentres.ie url when it goes ‘live’ later this year.

For further information: 051 383 622 dominic@travelcentres.ie www.travelbug.ie

PREVIOUS CONFERENCES 2005: 2006: 2007: 2008: 2009: 2010: 2011: 2012: 2013: 2014: 2015: 2016:

Keadeen, Newbridge Mount Wolseley Hilton, Tullow Castletroy, Limerick Killeshin, Portlaoise Sheraton, Athlone Clarion IFSC, Dublin Clarion IFSC, Dublin Killashee Hotel, Naas Killashee Hotel, Naas Killashee Hotel, Naas Lyrath Estate Co. Kilkenny Mullingar Park Hotel

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Agency GTI (Group International)

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YOUR ENTERTAINMENT The Pearly Whites are Ireland’s most professional, experienced and entertaining pop/swing showband.

The band has carefully tailored a unique show, different to that of any other band on the Irish scene.

Consisting of a thumping rhythm section, four explosive brass players, topped off with smooth but powerful male and female vocals, the band pride themselves on delivering a high energy performance while also adding that extra touch of class.

“...four explosive brass players, topped off with smooth but powerful male and female vocals,’’

The Pearly Whites have built up an eclectic repertoire that incorporates a wide variety of music catering for audiences of all ages. Their meticulously designed set list, combined with their infectious performances, means that they can guarantee to have you on the dance floor, smiling all night long.

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051 383 622 dominic@travelcentres.ie www.travelbug.ie