travel bulletin 1st june 2012

Operators announcenew tours, offers

& incentives

Indian Ocean

June 1 2012 | ISSUE NO 1,781 | www.travelbulletin.co.uk

skål the world over the president of SkålInternational Thailandis this month's voice ofa Skålleague

italy operator promotionsplus the latestadditions toprogrammes

brainstorm bulletinagents jump to therescue to solve a callcentre dilemma

8 13 16this week

west africa

a round-up of the latest news, hoteldevelopments & deals

14

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LIVING IT UP IN LUXOR...Discover Egypt took a group of agents to Luxor in Egypt recently. Pictured checking out the five-star family friendly Maritim Jolie Ville onKings Island are, from the left: Mohamed Shakour and Mohamed Samie, Discover Egypt; Neil Farr, Bath Travel in Shanklin; Amena Hussen, Maritim Jolie Ville; CristinaSelci, Saturn Travel in High Wycombe; Slelley Tailamon and Sue Dupont, Bath Travel in Southampton; Cheryl Maling, Bath Travel in Verwood; Richard Smith,cruise.co.uk; Alice Romer, Bath Travel in Lymington; Shelley Majury, Bath Travel in Blandford; Amy Lovett, Bath Travel in Hythe; Sharon Dyer, Bath Travel inBournemouth; Luke Simpson, Bath Travel in Totton; Melissa Robilliard, Bath Travel in Bournemouth; Hayley Sheppard, Bath Travel in Paignton; Lorraine Bainbridge,Ponders Travel in Cambridge; Katie Carrie, Bath Travel in Torquay; and Lucy Marinaro and Mohsen Elsayed, Discover Egypt.

This Week

3newsthe latest industry announce-ments, trends & offers

19 indian oceanoperators announce newtours, offers & incentives

8skål the world over president of SkålInternational Thailand,Andrew Wood, is thismonth's voice of a Skålleague

9agent bulletinEncounters Travel offers£20 High Street voucherincentive plus up to 15%commission with everybooking

10 W-AITO-Go! the latest news & viewsfrom AITO Agents

11 puzzle bulletincan you solve this week'sTravagram puzzles?

12event bulletinthe news in pictures fromthe Slovenian IncomingWorkshop (SIW) 2012

13brainstorm bulletinagents jump to the rescueto solve a call centredilemma

14west africaa round-up of the latestnews, hotel developments &deals

16italynew operator promotionsplus the latest additions toprogrammes

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newsbulletin

Brits play it safe for the summer holiday NEARLY TWO-thirds (57%) of Brits would only try a new holidaydestination if the location came recommended by a friend,according to a new study commissioned by Hilton HHonors, theloyalty programme for Hilton Worldwide’s ten brands.

Hilton HHonors has partnered with travel expert Ben Fogleand will be motivating UK travellers to try new holidayexperiences during The Great Getaway sale, which offers up to40% off stays completed between now and September 30, atany of the participating hotels within the Hilton Worldwideportfolio.

The study was conducted on travel trends to uncover Britishholiday habits and research revealed several notable results,including: ● Getaway and show off: while many aren’t quick to try

somewhere new, more than 60% of respondents show offpast holidays to friends and family to encourage others toexperience the destination.

● Wish you were here: a quarter of Brits admit to texting andemailing people when on holiday to share their experience.

● Rain, rain, go away: more than half (61%) of the surveyrespondents are influenced by the weather when planningtheir next holiday.

● Take me away: more than 60% of Brits only feel like they arereally “getting away from it all” when in a differentenvironment.

● Tag me: almost three-quarters (71%) of 16-24 year-olds inthe UK share all their holiday news via Facebook.

Fogle said: “The research shows that most Brits need acomplete change of scenery to feel that they are ‘getting awayfrom it all’, so it’s really important for everyone to get out thereand try new things. I always encourage people to experimentwhile on holiday by taking part in a new activity or even justtrying a different cuisine. If a change is as good as a break,why not do both?”

Agents looking to save their clients' money by bookingthrough The Great Getaway have until July 23 to make abooking. For more information visit www.hhonors.com/getaway

Survey revealsbaggage allowance &budgeting are topworries for Brits NEW RESEARCH from AsdaTravel Money has found thatmany Brits resort to panicpacking before going awayas the worries over lastminute preparations andmaking sure they’ve packedeverything take over.Almost three quarters(73%) of people only startpreparing and packing a fewdays before they set off,with one in ten (12%)leaving it until the daybefore.

While people may leavepacking until the lastminute, it doesn’t stop themworrying about all thoseessential holidaypreparations. Trying not toover pack causes thebiggest panic with almosthalf of holidaymakers (46%)stating that staying withinweight limits is their biggestfear especially with theexorbitant luggage chargesfrom budget airlines and afifth of people (18%) worryabout buying their travelmoney in advance. For

● continues on next page

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A SUMMER holiday inIreland for up to fivepeople including ferrycrossings now costs from£800 with Irish FerriesHolidays.

The seven-night holidaycan be taken any weekbetween July 14 andAugust 18 at Moore BayHoliday Homes, a fewminutes’ away from a BlueFlag beach in CountyClare, and represents asaving of £70 on theoriginal brochure price.

Each cottage sleeps upto five and within thegrounds there’s a tenniscourt, crazy golf, footballpitch and toddlers’ playarea. Local activitiesinclude Kilkee SurfSchool, a water-sportscentre, fishing trips andgolf courses. The seasideresort of Kilkee, just a fewminutes’ drive away, hasan indoor aqua park and aselection of pubs andrestaurants. Otherholidays where the samedeal applies includeSeacliffe holiday cottagesin County Waterford,where a week’s stay for afamily of up to five nowcosts £839. And in CountyCork, Sam Maguire’sCottages just outsideClonakilty are nowavailable for £844 for afamily of up to six.

Other discountedcottage holiday locationsinclude Killarney, Tralee,Wexford, Druids Glen inCounty Wicklow andSword just outside Dublin.

All discounted holidaysmust be booked by June16 and prices include self-catering accommodationand ferry crossings fromDublin or Pembroke for afamily car, two adults andup to four children.For details seewww.irishferries.com/holidays or call 0871-730 0400.

Save £70 on Irish HolidayCottages withIrish Ferries

www.travelbulletin.co.ukJune 1 20124

newsbulletin

A CYPRIOT AFFAIR...the Cyprus Tourism Organisation (CTO)and Association of Greek Cypriot Travel Agents (AGTA) recentlyhosted an evening presentation with dinner for travel agentsat the Dorchester Hotel in London. The event gave agents theopportunity to learn more about the destination, including itsmain resorts and attractions. Pictured are, from the left:Lillian Panayi, CTO; Lindsay Bull, Langley Travel; ParisKounoudis, Cyprus Spa Association; Stephanie Elkington,Sunvil Travel; and Yannis Efthymiou, AGTA.

Tweets of

the WeekWho’s saying what

on Twitter...

@British_AirwaysWatch our pop-uporchestra surprisepassengers with theFlower Duet atHeathrow Terminal 5 inour new videohttp://bit.ly/KNesFW

@AceAndyHarmerTickets are nowavailable for the ACECruise Convention inBirmingham on Sep 20www.cruiseexperts.org

@VisitBritainDid you know that 8,000inspirational people willcarry the OlympicFlame as it journeysacross the UK? #follow-thetorch

@Activity_TravelMaster the basics ofsailing & wake boardingin the beautiful RilaNational Park inBulgariahttp://tiny.cc/4tzsewhttp://pic.twitter.com/Z1xKHlLY

@DFDS_EngChannelSee the exhibition of thesplendid carriages of#Versailles in #Arrasuntil 10 Nov.http://dld.bz/b2SfN

@VisitDublin 2 night Dublin breaksfor just €74.50 perperson sharing! We'vegot the deals for you!Book your accommoda-tion nowhttp://bit.ly/HNWX6W

@EurostarUK See some world-classart in beautiful Baselhttp://ow.ly/bbNaS

Follow us on Twitter!http://twitter.com/

TravelBulletin

IMAGINATIVE TRAVELLER is offering up to 15% off alldepartures to Turkey until December 31.

Examples include a ten-day Turkey Adventure from£400 per person, plus a local payment of €100; a 15-dayTreasures of Turkey option from £1,035 per person, plusa local payment of €100; and a 15-day Turkish Odysseywhich leads in at £625, plus a local payment of €150.For more information call 01728-885561.

parents, the task of packing for their families proves the moststressful with 59% of mums believing this causes them thebiggest worry. For dads, their biggest worry is over spending,with a third (35%) stressing about budgeting for their trips.Parents also worry about what they’re leaving behind with32% panicking about preparing the house before they jet off.

● continued from previous page

15% savings from Imaginative Traveller

MOVERS● CONDOR FERRIES has appointed Tony Tabner as

sales and business development manager.● ANDREW MAGOWAN has been appointed managing

director UK of SeaDream Yacht Club.● THE SINGAPORE Tourism Board has appointed Lionel

Yeo as chief executive.● CAPTAIN ALI Hassan Sulaiman has been appointed

acting chief officer of flight operations for Oman Air.● ABERCROMBIE & Kent has appointed Frank Rejwan

as managing director, specialist businesses. ● LISA ELMES-BOSSHARD, UK consultant to the St.

Kitts Tourism Authority, has been elected to theBoard of Directors of the Caribbean TourismOrganisation CTO (UK).

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GRAND UK Holidays has unveiled a new range ofseasonal celebration holidays for this coming winter.

Called ‘Festive House Parties’, the five-day coachholidays offer the chance to get into the festive spiritand are featured in the operator's new 2012/13festive/winter brochure.

The breaks take place at a choice of nine hotels andstart from £189 per person for five days’ half-boardaccommodation, travel and three excursions. Theholidays depart on December 10 and 17.

The brochure also features a new ‘Fete de Noue’holiday in Jersey, where the islanders host aprogramme of festive activities and streetentertainment. It departs on December 3 and costs £339per person.

Also new is a Warner Festive Celebration (five days,for £359 per person) at Warner Leisure Hotel’s Nidd HallHotel – said to be where Edward VIII first met WallisSimpson.

New Continental Christmas market holidays have alsobeen added, including The Markets of Lorraine &Alsace, and Fairytale Markets and Hanseatic Treats.

And the range of UK Christmas market holidays hasalso been revised, with a choice of eight destinations,from Bath to Yorkshire.For more information or to book call 01603-619933 or see www.grandukholidays.com

MOSAIC HOLIDAYS haslaunched a dedicatedagents' Website to forgecloser relationships withagents who want to workwith the specialist Turkey,North Cyprus, Jordan,Egypt and Arabia operator.

Responding to feedbackreceived from recentresearch by the operator,agents can now register onthe site to gain access totraining opportunities,download posters, meetthe team and read newsand views. A regularcolumn will featured,written by legal expertAlan Bowen of AGBAssociates, the formerhead of legal services atABTA for eight years. Allagents registering throughthe site will be entitled to a£10 voucher for everybooking made by June 30.For details visitwww.mosaicholidays.co.uk/agents

Join the Christmas ‘house party’with Grand UK Holidays

Mosaic Holidayslaunches dedicated

agents' WebsiteACE HAS launched twonew social media toolsdesigned to provideagents with the latestnews and productinformation directly fromcruise lines and traveltrade partners.

A series of livewebinars are scheduledto take place this monthand next including Cruise& Maritime, The RiverCruise Line, RockyMountaineer and CrystalCruises. Further dateswill be announced soon.

The association hasalso launched ACE TVwhich will featureinterviews with themovers and shakers inthe cruise industry. Everyfortnight the programmewill feature a newinterview, with GilesHawke from CompleteCruise Solutionappearing early thismonth.

ACE increasessocial mediapresence

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S02 TB0106 News 1_Layout 1 30/05/2012 12:33

Olympic answers Greece questions OLYMPIC HOLIDAYS has posted answers to frequentlyasked questions on its Website, in an effort to reassureagents and travellers that Greece is a good holidaychoice this summer.

The operator does not expect Greece to leave the Euro– at least not this summer – but says it is prepared forwhatever happens.

The company's commercial director, PhotisLambrianides, said: “The politicians’ failure to form agovernment has created further uncertainty, particularlyabout whether or not Greece will stay in the euro.

“All arrangements with our main partners are inreadiness, should this situation develop. For instance,our hotel and other ground contracts would beconverted to drachmas.

“Right now, Greece represents the best-ever value,with hoteliers bending over backwards to keep thetourism industry going, and the holiday pound worth upto 25% more in resort.

“Even if Greece leaves the Euro, it will not happenovernight and there would be a transition period duringwhich both currencies would be in circulation.Throughout the Greek islands, local hoteliers, bar-owners and everyone in the tourism industry wouldcontinue to do what they do so well: welcomeholidaymakers with open arms.”

The Greek FAQS are in the Travel Update section ofthe operator’s Website, and answers questionsincluding: Should I wait until things quieten down?,What happens if the currency changes from euro todrachma? and Is local transport affected?For more information call 0844-576 2386 or seewww.olympicholidays.com


newsbulletin

Newsbites● VIRGIN ATLANTIC has announced it will withdraw

operations between London and Nairobi onSeptember 23. Increasing costs and a challengingeconomic environment in both Kenya and Europehave, during the past five years, contributed to thedecision to withdraw the service.

● PLANET HOLIDAYS and Weddings has moved itsoffices from New Barnet to Welwyn inHertfordshire. For details call 0871-871 2234 or visit www.planet-holidays.co.uk

● JOHN LEWIS and Kuoni have announced a newpartnership which will see the travel companyopen new travel concessions in four of theretailer’s shops in autumn. Locations includeOxford Street, Reading, Southampton and Cardiff.

● THE OPENING of Berlin's new airport has been putback from June until March next year, because itsfire safety system is not ready. Berlin Brandenburgairport cost 2.5billion euros (£2billion) to build.

● WIZZ AIR has announced a new three times weeklyroute to Ljubljana in Slovenia from Luton whichcommences in October. Fares are available from£23.99 one-way, including taxes. For details see www.wizzair.com

CYPRUSCYPRUSSpecialist in Tailor-Making Holidays

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Price Matching Will be ConsideredBook on line www.cyplon.co.uk or Email: [email protected]

HURTIGRUTEN HASlaunched its 2013 Norwaybrochure featuring aprogramme of new charterdepartures and theintroduction of a flexiblepricing structure. The newpublication replaces thepreview brochure andincludes a new five-day‘Taste of the Arctic’ winteritinerary from Bergen toTromsø and two newbirdwatching excursions.Overall prices lead in at£756 per person for a five-night ‘Voyage South’.

A total of 52 charterpackages are being offeredfor next year, 12 more thanfor 2012. The charters areavailable on two itineraries- the ‘Arctic Highlights

Voyage’ from Tromsø toKirkenes and back and the‘Classic Round Voyage’from Bergen to Kirkenesand back.

Eight new departuredates are available for the‘Arctic Highlights’ itinerary,departing on selecteddates from January toMarch and October toDecember from fourregional airports in totalincluding Belfast, which isnew for this year andEdinburgh, previously onlyfeatured as a charterdeparture airport for the‘Classic Round Voyage’. For more information call020-8846 2666 or visitwww.hurtigruten.co.uk/agents

Hurtigruten launches Norway 2013 brochure

Kwandwe Private Game Reservelaunches exclusive safaris for childrenSITUATED IN South Africa’s malaria-free Eastern Cape,Kwandwe Private Game Reserve has introduced a seriesof new activities to enhance the safari experience foryounger guests to overcome the usual age restrictionsimposed on game drives. These include treasure hunts;finger painting; complimentary childminding and a newfamily room policy.

The Hooves & Stripes Wildlife Drives take childrenaged five and under out to spot non dangerous animalssuch as giraffe, zebra, wildebeest, tortoises andwarthogs at a safe distance so they can learn about thebush and its residents.

Prices start from approximately £340 per person, pernight, based on two sharing on a full-board basis,including all drinks and safari activities. Children undersix that are sharing with their parents stay free andchildren aged six-16 pay half price. For more information email [email protected] see www.kwandwe.com

S02 TB0106 News 1_Layout 1 30/05/2012 12:33

newsbulletin‘Yorkshire in the 1940s’ tour from GRJGREAT RAIL Journeys is promoting a special interest tourcalled Yorkshire in the 1940’s. The tour captures the romanceand nostalgia of Pickering and the North Yorkshire MoorsRailway during its ‘1940’s weekend’ on October 11 and 12when the town is transformed to the way it was then, completewith a military parade and historical scenarios and re-enactments. Prices for the tour lead in at £358 per personincluding four nights' half-board accommodation, a guidedwalking tour of York, scenic rail journey on the North YorkshireMoors Railway during the 1940’s weekend, a journey on theKeighley and Worth Railway, a visit to the Bronte ParsonageMuseum and a tour manager throughout. For details call 01904-521980 or see www.greatrail.com

IN-FLIGHT SALES of Attraction World products are nowlive with Thomas Cook Airlines in mainland Spain,Portugal and Turkey, with more destinations set to follow.

The in-flight sales technology that ties in with theonboard retail systems took six months to pull togetherwith Alpha Flight Group who manage the in-flight retailfor Thomas Cook Airlines. It means that passengers onboard certain flights can book tickets to key parks andattractions and take advantage of the benefits of pre-booking.

The operator sees this as another channel forcapturing sales but is keen to remind agents that theyhave first access to the customers and the first chance tomake the booking.

The company's national sales manager, Nick Hughes,said: “Take Siam Park as an example – only 9% of ticketsales from the UK are pre-booked. This means 91% flywithout pre-buying and this new development is simply away of mopping up missed opportunities. There are somany benefits of buying tickets in advance - customerscan enter the park using their smart phone, queue jumpwith their e-ticket which in peak season can save lots ofvaluable time and they can go any day they want whilstaway so hugely flexible and there are no paper tickets tolose! I cannot encourage agents enough to do all they canto capture some of the market.”For more information visit www.attractionworld.com or call 0871-700 8888.

AW rolls out inflight sales with TC

Shearings releases summer late deals SHEARINGS HOLIDAYS has released a Summer Late Dealsbrochure, promoting deals and special offers across GreatBritain and Europe. A range of seaside holidays and escortedtours are included in the 32-page brochure, alongside rivercruises, with savings of up to £550 per person.The companywill be visiting a selection of agents and rewarding those thatproactively display the new brochures with a chocolate hamper.Agents that display the company’s Summer Late Deals point ofsale posters in their window will also have the chance ofwinning £200.

Prices lead in at £179 for a UK break, £219 for a Europeanholiday and £599 for a river cruise. For details call 01942-823449 or visit www.shearingsagent.com

S02 TB0106 News 1_Layout 1 30/05/2012 12:33


newsbulletin

I HAVE been a member of Skål International for 18-plusyears and during all of that time I have found that theopportunities for networking and forming globalfriendships have been second to none. This includes myregular attendance at trade shows, both overseas and inThailand, PATA events, Chamber of Commercemeetings and private industry functions.

I have lived in Bangkok for 21 years, working at asenior level in the industry. Unlike in the movies, if iwanted a free drink I didn’t need to gatecrash a party.These legitimate invitations to official functions helpedbroaden my professional network in the early days.

My membership in Skål International stands headand shoulders above the rest of my professionalmemberships. It has helped in my ability to aim higherthan my peer group could ever do. As an example, whenvisiting Tokyo on business for the first time, I was metand welcomed by the publisher of Travel Journalmagazine, Imai-san, on a Sunday. He drove me aroundfor a personal tour of Tokyo and its sights, followed bydinner. The next day I was invited to join the Skål lunchof the Tokyo club and I was introduced to the presidentsof JAL; ANA; JTB; KNT; etc. This would never havehappened if I went to visit them on a sales call!

I often refer to the affordable red carpet experiencewhen I talk about my Skål International membership.For instance attendance at the Skål World Congress,which takes place in the fall of each year, is veryaffordable. Five nights' five-star accommodation,including all meals, drinks, a welcome party, galadinner, events, tours etc. for approx US$1,000 allincluded!

I heard quite recently that potential employers andplacement companies advise candidates not to mentionSkål International on their resumés. Why should they beembarrassed to belong to the world's oldest tourismassociation with 19,000 senior travel and tourismprofessionals? I would argue that Skål is just as relevantas it always was. Sure the industry has changed and willcontinue to do so. You only have to speak to travelagents and owners of travel magazines and you will geta nod of agreement. But are there better alternativesthan what Skål offers? None that I know of.

What would I consider the most important motivebehind my Skål membership? Being able to travelanywhere in the world and have a friend to say hello,show you the ropes and make you feel you are welcome!

SKÅL!

Members of Skål - the International Association of

Travel and Tourism Professionals - share their travel

experiences and success stories from around the

globe. This month, the voice of a Skålleague comes

from ANDREW J. WOOD, president of Skål

International Thailand

SKÅL THE

WORLD OVER


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CITY CRUISES hasunveiled its new brand,look and feel, which isbeing rolled out across thefleet, piers and on its newWebsite. The first mainmanifestation of this is onthe re-liveried Millenniumof London sightseeingboat, which was launchedwith an inaugural of theChampagne Sundownerlast month. The rebrand also seeschanges from ticketoffices to staff uniformsand the company has alsoinvested in a tailor-madebooking system to meetthe needs of both tradepartners and the generalpublic.

As an example of newadditions, the SundownerCruise offers guests aglass of Champagne with a

cruise down the Thamesand includes canapés.

Departures are fromWestminster Pier onThursday to Saturday at18:00 and guests are takenon a round trip of the rivertaking in many of the city’sfamous sights, includingTower Bridge, Houses ofParliament and the Towerof London. The two-hourcruise costs £20 perperson.

Later this year thecompany will take deliveryof the largest passengervessel to operate on theThames, which will takethe total investment invessels, plant and peopleto £15million over the past17 years.For more information or to book visitwww.citycruises.com orcall 020-774 00 400.

City Cruises reveals new brand for summer

S02 TB0106 News 1_Layout 1 30/05/2012 12:33

● TRANSUN HAS unveiled a new Thailandprogramme and is offering a range of tailor-madeitineraries. To mark the new launch, the operatoris giving agents a £20 Love2Shop Voucher forevery booking made by July 31. To redeem, quote‘Travel Bulletin’ at the time of booking. For details call 01865-265200.

● AMRESORTS HAS launched a new Championshipsincentive which is valid for new bookings of aminimum seven nights made at selected resortsby June 30 on all future bookings for this yearand next. Prizes are based on a tiered system andrange from a goodie bag to a home cleaner for ayear and a 12-month gym membership.Participating properties include Zoëtry Wellness& Spa Resorts and Secrets, Dreams or NowResorts & Spas. Agents should log their bookingsat www.amragents.com by July 6 at the latest.For details email [email protected]

● ONE STOP Touring Shop has launched a new agenttraining and incentive programme. Followingregistration, agents can collect points for everyeligible booking logged with Trafalgar, InsightVacations and Contiki Holidays plus every trainingmodule completed. Points earned can be

redeemed against a range of prizes including 40”HD televisions, designer handbags and iPads onlineat www.onestoptouringshop.co.uk/rewards. Toenroll visit www.onestoptraining.traveluni.com.Agents also have the chance to qualify as a OneStop Touring Shop Gold Agent. These agents willreceive frequent visits and calls from theirdedicated sales manager, priority invitations tobrochure launches and events, exclusive invitationsto one of the regional annual dinners, co-fundedmarketing support, special brochure distributionwith no time or quantity limit for reordering andGold agent certificates to display in store.For details call 020-7468 4335 or visitwww.onestoptouringshop.co.uk

● ENCOUNTERS TRAVEL is giving agents thechance to earn a £20 High Street voucher plus upto 15% commission with every booking confirmeduntil June 30. The company offers small group,fully escorted tours to a range of destinationsincluding Egypt, Morocco, Sudan, Jordan, Israel,Turkey, Russia, India, Nepal, Thailand, Tanzania,Peru and Bolivia, with itineraries ranging from sixto 21 days. For details see www.encounterstravel.com or call 0800-088 6002.

Did you know...in the rare event of unruly passengers, Hong KongAirlines' cabin crew are all fully Wing Chun martial arts trained, sincethe initiative was launched in March last year. The Wing Chuntraining is compulsory for all cabin crew members and aims to promoteinner balance and core strength, needed for the rigors of the job, as wellas enabling the crew to deal with any potential challenges.

9June 1 2012

agentbulletin

Booking incentives

Fancy a fam?FUNWAY HOLIDAYS isplanning a series of famtrips following asignificant investmentinto the number of famspaces and opportunitiesfor agents to see itsproduct. The first set offam trips details havebeen released, includingLas Vegas in October(the operator inpartnership with VirginAtlantic are offeringagents the chance to winone of 20 places on thisfour-night fam), theCaribbean (date to beconfirmed) and HongKong inNovember/December. For details call 0844-557 0626 or visitwww.funway4agents.co.uk


S03 TB0106 News 2_Layout 1 30/05/2012 12:41


AS PART of the AITO All Stars incentive scheme, asmall group of the top performing AITO Agents haverecently been treated to a very special fam trip in

conjunction with ITC Classics and Complete Caribbean. Itwas a particularly exciting trip as not only did we get tosee a range of properties in Barbados, but we also flewout to Mustique and stayed for two nights at the CottonHouse.

As soon as we touched down on this beautiful, exclusiveisland, we could all tell there was something specialabout it. The island was made famous by its royalresident, Princess Margaret, and it’s easy to see why shefell in love with it. Today, the landscape is adorned withprivate villas owned by the rich and famous. Dramaticcoastlines, friendly locals, privacy difficult to find intoday’s modern world and a climate many islands wouldbe jealous of, mean that Mustique truly does seem to haveit all.

The island was somewhere I could never imagine beingable to afford to visit on my own holidays, so we all feltprivileged to get an insight into this world so far removedfrom our own. It was also an invaluable opportunity to findout more about this high-end, luxury destination we areall lucky enough to sell. Staying in a place as opposed tojust visiting for a few hours really does make a difference,as I am sure you will agree.

The Mustique Company has strict rules in place withregards to building regulations and so you won’t find anybuilt-up areas on the island, just high villas dotted around– including those belonging to stars such as Mick Jaggerand Tommy Hilfiger. Transport is by car or, morecommonly, Kawasaki ‘Mules’ – large golf buggies whichprovide a much more interesting ride. With no pollution itis easy to feel the affects of the sun on the island, andwhilst it previously suffered problems with mosquitos,they are now no more prevalent here than on any of theneighbouring islands.

While in Mustique, our group got together one eveningto discuss industry issues that were affecting us all; theseranged from discounting and service fees to non-bondedagents. It was a reminder that taking yourself outside ofthe workplace can be of real value when it comes tostanding back from your business and reviewing thecurrent climate more objectively. Of course there werediffering opinions on all subjects but the commonality wasthat we were all AITO Agents, and I for one was keen toensure everyone present understood the importance of

coming together and working on issues as a team to helpus survive these difficult times. Indeed I look forward todebating the topics further at our conference in Madeirain a few weeks.

Meanwhile, in Barbados we stayed at the Coral Reef,Colony Club and Cobblers Cove, and also visited SandyLane, Sandpiper, Crystal Cove, Tuckers Point, Jolly Beachand The House. Each with their own style and market itwas good to see a range of properties for differingbudgets.

Having not visited Barbados since I was 14 I waspleasantly surprised, and I can completely see why somany clients choose to repeat visit. The welcome wereceived was warm and hospitable, and at no point duringthe stay did I feel unsafe. You certainly got the feeling thatlocals were pleased you had chosen their island to visit.

It was great to be able to share the trip with a groupwho had done so well in the AITO All Stars incentivescheme. It gave us the opportunity to chat about AITO, andthere were some great ideas suggested during the trip. Tome, this is what AITO is all about. Whilst our agents arespread all across the UK, when we come together weshare a lot of common ground. We are faced with thesame concerns and have to tackle the same problems, soin the spirit of AITO we can pull together and workthrough them.

I now look forward to exploring more of the Caribbean,if anyone’s offering?!

AITO Specialist Travel Agents regularly runs FAM tripsin association with AITO operator members. This yearAITO Agents has also run a trip to Egypt with On the GoTours, more details about which can be found on theirblog: http://aitoagents.blogspot.com . For the latest AITOAgents news, follow us on Twitter: twitter/aitoagents.For details of becoming a member or to book onto theirMadeira conference in June call 020 8744 9271.

Why working together as a team makessurviving the difficult times easier to tackle

To respond to any of Oliver’s views email [email protected]

opinionbulletin

W-AITO-Go!by OLIVER BROAD

S03 TB0106 News 2_Layout 1 30/05/2012 12:41

puzzlebulletin


Where Am I?

Colourful range in New South Wales

Fill in all the squares in the grid so that each row, column and each of the

3 x 3 squares contains the digits 1-9.Once you have completed the puzzle, simply identify the numbers that relate

to the letters, A, B, C and D then e-mail the solution, with your name,

company name, and full postal address plus phone and ABTA number if

applicable to:

[email protected]

Closing date for entries is Thursday, June 7th. Solution and new puzzle will

appear next week.

The winner for 18th May is Paul Semple, John Semple

Travel Ltd in Glasgow.

May 18 Solution: A=3 B=6 C=7 D=9

➠A

➠B

➠C

➠D

Number: 067

Travagrams

Across 1. This line has three Queens in its fleet (6)3. Part of the Accor chain (4)7. Royal Yacht, now a tourist attraction in

Scotland (9)8. First name of newly appointed England

manager (3)9. Sea separating Australia and New Zealand (6)12. Major tourist attraction overlooking 14

Across (3)13. Antigua international airport code (3)14. Gloriana will lead the royal pageant of over

a thousand boats along this river (6)18. Roman numeral (3)19. Asian based hotel group (9)20. First name of singer/songwriter and

organiser of the Queen's concert (4)21. Popular city break destination (6)

Down 1. Prince who recently presented a weather

forecast on TV (7)2. The kings of France were once crowned in

this historic city (5)4. Perhaps U2 could become as rich as this pop

star with Facebook (4)5. Carrier initially, operating from RSA (3)6. Royal family member who carried the

Olympic torch on horseback to Cheltenhamracecourse (4)

7. Computer unit of memory, sounds like a quicksnack (4)

10. National carrier of Lebanon (3)11. Silver/grey line, sounds like a cause for

celebration (7)13. Continent (4)15. Mr Laurie, no longer in the House (4)16. New England state (5)17. Henry VIII's last wife, Katherine (4)19. Salzburg airport code (3)

Where Am I?

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

For the solution to the Crossword, Where Am I? and Travagrams, please see page 22

Crossword

Su Doku

Num

ber:

067

City located on the Dâmbovita River

This tour operator shares its name with this ex-prime minister

Baths Cure

Marvel Jar To

Can you solve the following anagrams to decipher the destination & tour operator?Win a £50 Hotel Chocolat voucher in the travelbulletin Su Doku prize puzzle

S03 TB0106 News 2_Layout 1 30/05/2012 12:41


eventbulletin

RADOVLJICA LADIES… at the welcome party in Mojstrana

is Nataša Mikelj (back left) from the Radovljica Tourist Board

and Morana Polovič (back right) from the Lambergh Chateau

& Hotel Radovljica, with women in traditional dress

SLOVENIAN NATIONAL AIRLINE…pictured is Tomaz Tolar, area managerat Adria Airways

SIW 2012 HOSTS… getting set to

welcome guests is Nina Peternel from the

Kranjska Gora Tourist Board

SLOVENIAN CHAT… Vojko Bizjan

from M Tours Bled (left) catches up

with Tine Murn, head of UK &

ROI communication, Slovenian

Tourist Office

FISHING OUT THE CONTACTS…Trevor and

Valerie King from Kings Angling & Activity

Holidays await their next appointment at the

workshop

THE 15TH Slovenian Incoming Workshop (SIW 2012) recently took placein Kranjska Gora in the North-West of Slovenia amidst the Julian Alps.Slovenian tourism providers met partners from around the world andhere's a selection of pictures from the event...

ALPINE MINGLING… pictured at the SlovenianAlpine Museum, Mojstrana is Lili Ošterbenk Janša(middle) from Bled Tourist Board with Ann LouiseMiles (left) from Global Travel Associates andSandrine Lestringuez from Gullivers Travel Associates

S03 TB0106 News 2_Layout 1 30/05/2012 15:13


brainstormbulletin

THIS WEEK, Ian Bates from Worldchoice Travel in Shrewsbury, Shropshire,asked for your feedback on the following...

THE NEXT BRAINSTORM QUESTION IS: How do other agents close the sale while their

potential client is in the shop so that they don’t lose the customer to the internet?

Please send your responses to [email protected] with the subject

'Brainstorm'. The star response wins a £10 Love2Shop voucher.

brainstormbulletin

WE REFUSE to deal with some companies for this reason and also because when you have aproblem it is a nightmare. I once spent hours trying to get the Virgin Holidays call centre to helpme with a serious problem but just received abuse and was told it was all my fault. When I finallymanaged to speak to someone in the UK the problem was sorted out in minutes. I don’t stresseasily but after that experience I decided life was too short. To avoid repeating the experience wesimply stopped using Virgin Holidays. I am not sure if they have changed this system as I havenever ever braved up to ring them again but we tend mainly to deal with the UK-basedcompanies. In reality if you decide to run a call centre abroad you are insulting UK workers andresidents but readily accept their money. Ironically some bosses of UK companies that havefollowed this procedure have won services to Britain awards or worse still Knighthoods. I seem tosee a trend of insurance companies returning to the UK as it has obviously met resistance and ifit is going to happen in travel the best way to speed this up is for UK agents to switch sell theproblem companies.

TREVOR BONES, SOUTHERN CROSS TRAVEL, EAST SUSSEX

I HAVE had this experience plenty of times. I now ask to speak to John or Robert and thisusually puts them in a spin. This then usually results in getting put sraight through to someonethat speaks English and understands English. I also hate the idea that we have to ringexpensive lines so I now use this Website which not only gives you alternative numbers to callwhich are normal standard rates but also saves the company you work for probably thousandsin calls each year. Why, oh why, do companies that we give our business to try and rip us offwith expensive telephone numbers to call after we have given them our business? See www.saynoto0870.com/0871consultation/

CLARISSA EDGAR, HOLIDAY EXPERTS’ HOMEWORKER, BASED IN THE WEST MIDLANDS

STARRESPONSE

Here's what some of you thought...

WINS a£10

Love2Shopvoucher

One of the bug-bears in our office is that when we call certainoperators we are often connected to a call centre abroad. The

other day my colleague had to speak to three different people atthe call centre before someone could understand what she wassaying! I think if you are going to employ people in call centresthey really need to know how to speak English to a high level.

Do other agents feel the same and do they have any tips on howto deal with being understood?

STRANGELY ENOUGH I hadan email on this just theother week and the verystraight forward answer isthat you ask where they arespeaking from and then askto be put through to a UKbased office. If they offer tolet you speak to theirsupervisor, politely refuseand ask again to be putthrough to a UK basedoffice. Apparently it is withinyour rights to do this. I havetried this and it does work.

CHERYL SHADWELL, KWIKTRAVEL LTD, TAMWORTH

MY VIEW on this is that Iwon't deal with operatorswho have overseas callcentres. For example, Inever do any bookings withVirgin any more. I found thatI could never make myselfunderstood and everyquestion I asked they alwayssaid yes or would put me onhold for ages and then comeback with an answer thatwasn't relevant to thequestion. It was infuriating!So, they lost my businessand I haven't used them forover a year.

MICHELLE STAMMERS, THECO-OPERATIVE PERSONALTRAVEL ADVISOR, SUTTONCOLDFIELD

S03 TB0106 News 2_Layout 1 30/05/2012 12:41

WEST AFRICA is tipped as the hottest new cruise destination and G Adventures isoffering a range of savings to entice people to book.

Agents can offer clients booking the complete 27-day Cape Town to Dakar trip a 25%discount, and 20% to those booking sectors from Cape Town to Accra (18 days) or Accrato Dakar (12 days) for all bookings made before June 30.

The 140-guest MS Expedition, owned and operated by the operator, takes passengersup the coast of West Africa in April 2013, stopping at some of the lesser visitedlocations, with expert guides onboard to ensure guests make the most of the nature andculture they discover on the way.

The company's general manager, Michael Edwards, said: “We’re known fortrailblazing new destinations and not only will we attract a new audience of first-timecruisers to the region, but it’s also great to offer exciting new destinations to our loyalexpedition guests.

“Although agents will be familiar with our successful Arctic and Antarcticprogrammes they may be unfamiliar with this area of the world. So our sales team willbe on the road educating them about these intriguing countries and why the comfort ofan expedition vessel is the ideal way to see them. Plus our generous commissionstructure is always an added incentive to sell our expedition itineraries.”

Prices for the 12-day Accra-Dakar itinerary lead in at £2,796 per person (from£3,495), while the 18-day Cape Town to Accra option now costs £6,236 (was £7,795) andthe 27-day Cape Town to Dakar option costs £5,846 (was £7,795). For more information call 0844-272 2040 or visit www.gadventures.com

Serenity Holidaysissues latest2012/13 brochuresSERENITY HOLIDAYS’ newbrochures, featuring holidaysto Cape Verde(www.capeverde.co.uk), TheGambia (www.gambia.co.uk)and Senegal(www.senegal.co.uk) for theperiod November 2012through to October 2013, willbe available from next week.

New adventure activitiesoffered include Tall shipsailing in Cape Verde - with a14-night itinerary visiting atleast six of the islands,Chimp Camp at BaboonIsland in the River GambiaNational Park - providing anopportunity to observechimps and other wildlife intheir natural habitat plus BigGame trips to Senegals’Fathala Reserve departingfrom The Gambia’s SitanunkuLodge - the first tourist lodgeto be situated on the NorthBank of the River Gambia.

Selected agents willreceive file copies togetherwith a newsletter with around-up of the latest newsand activities. Agentsinterested in selling The CapeVerde Experience, TheGambia Experience and TheSenegal Experience andreceiving bulk supplies cancontact the company's tradesupport team on 0845-330 2066 or [email protected]

Early booking incentive for new West Africa sailings with G Adventures


westafrica

LES PALETUVIERS Resort in Senegal is offering stays from €90 per night including breakfast, lunchand dinner. The Belgian-owned resort, located in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Sine SaloumNational Park, features 24 huts spread throughout the bush village of Toubacouta. Nearby activitiesinclude birdwatching, animal tracking, visiting villages to meet the local people, fishing, swimming,African dance lessons and learning Senegalese cooking. For details see www.paletuviers.com

Ganvie boat market in Benin

S04 TB0106 West Africa_Layout 1 30/05/2012 15:00

BALES WORLDWIDE is promoting a range of packages acrossWest Africa including a 17-day 'Into The Namibian Wilderness'tour which leads in at £6,595 per person.

The itinerary takes guests across the sands of the NamibDesert and along the Skeleton Coast, to the game rich pans ofEtosha. Utilising luxury lodges and elegant private camps,guests will have the chance to explore the dunes of the NamibNaukluft Park and the beauty of the Palmwag Concession,before visiting Windhoek.

The price, which is based on two sharing on a mixed boardbasis, includes scheduled flights, accommodation, all applicableUK and overseas airport taxes and fuel surcharges andsightseeing encompassing Sossusvlei, Swakopmund,Damaraland, Estosha National Park, Skeleton Coast andWindhoek.

A 13-day 'Diverse Namibia' tour is also being highlighted and

costs from £3,695. The tour takes in the red dunes ofSossusvlei, the Atlantic Ocean, the desert and denizens ofDamaraland, and the dense plains game and predators ofEtosha National Park. Throughout the tour are interspersedactivities such as scenic walks, mountain biking, visiting theancient rock engravings at Twyfelfontein and rhino tracking,along with optional hot-air ballooning and horse-riding.

The price, which is based on two sharing on a mixed boardbasis, includes scheduled flights, accommodation, all applicableUK and overseas airport taxes and fuel surcharges andsightseeing encompassing Windhoek, Sossusvlei, Swakopmund,Damaraland, and Etosha National Park. The trip also includes aguide, sightseeing itinerary, medium class hotels, luxury lodgesand tented camps throughout. To book or for more information call 0845-057 0600 or visitwww.balesworldwide.com

Th e Gambia,

& CapeVerde...too hot to ignore!Experience a superior holiday service with the West Africa specialists. Holidays to suit all including packages, tours, multi-centres and weddings. Choose from the widest collection of hotels including boutique and spa hotels plus exclusive unique lodges.

For brochures, trade log-ins & agency support call

0845 330 2066Gambia.co.uk | Senegal.co.uk | CapeVerde.co.uk

5113

Senegal

westafrica

AIR NIGERIA has launched a dailyservice from Gatwick to MurtalaMohammed International Airport inLagos, Nigeria.

Departing from Gatwick at 09:50 theflight arrives in Lagos at 17:50, with thereturning flight leaving Lagos at 23:50and arriving at Gatwick at 05:50 thefollowing day. The A330-200 aircraft is

able to fly 295 passengers directbetween the two cities.

Guy Stephenson, Gatwick Airport’schief commercial officer, said: “Weexpect this route to be very popular, notonly for people wishing to meet up withfriends and family, but also withbusinesses in London and the SouthEast looking to strengthen trade and

investment links between the twocountries. Nigeria is the third fastestgrowing economy in the world and it isimportant that we continue to helpbroaden trade links with these growingmarkets. The carrier’s preference tooperate the new route from Gatwicksends a strong message that Gatwickhas the spare capacity to grow.”

Air Nigeria launches daily flights to Lagos in Nigeria from Gatwick

Bales Worldwide highlights selection of West Africa packages

S04 TB0106 West Africa_Layout 1 30/05/2012 12:44

Donnafugata Parkland golf course


italy

TYPICALLY ITALIAN Holidays, which sells exclusivelythrough retail travel agents, reports that it has seen recordbookings throughout 2010 and 2011 and is on course foranother year of continued growth.

The operator’s managing director, Daniele Broccoli, said:“We have put our faith and our resources into supportinggood retail agents and I am glad to see that both the agentsand ourselves are benefiting.

“Our growth is not only based on trade support but onthe true authentic nature of the holiday experience providedin a wide range of resorts, locations, and propertiesincluding three-, four- and five-star hotels and self catering

apartments in city centre, rural and beach side locations,plus the range of self-catering Bella Villas with pools.

“In addition to standard package holidays to the widerange of properties in the brochure, we also offer dual,multiple-centre holidays, opera, music events breaks andtailor-made tours.”

The company has launched ‘Pisa – The Gateway toTuscany’ – a promotion with flights from UK regionalairports via Pisa to all Tuscany city, rural and seasideresorts. For more information call 01733-315522 or [email protected]

DONNAFUGATA GOLF Resort & Spa,which is located on Sicily, reports thatthe island is becoming increasinglypopular as a golfing hotspot, thanks tothe introduction of the European Tour’sSicilian Open which was first held atthe five-star resort last year.This year the property has added newgolf packages to meet increaseddemand from guests.

As an example, a four-nightpackage, taken between June 1 andJuly 31, costs from €712 per personwith golf on the signature ParklandCourse, designed by Gary Player, andthe testing Franco Piras Links layout.

Packages include two three-coursedinners at the Il Carrubo restaurantand one lunch at the 19th HoleClubhouse after strolling the fairways.

Guests can also take advantage of aone-hour session at the spa, whichfeatures an indoor pool, sauna, gym,steam-baths and hydro-massagers.

Packages are based on two peoplesharing a double room and all mealsprovided exclude beverages.

Meanwhile, the 202-room resort hasintroduced a Very Important Kids (VIK)Club for summer. Throughout July andAugust, children aged four-12 years oldcan take part in a range ofcomplimentary activities between 10:00and 19:00, including creativeworkshops, various sports and teamgames, trips to the surrounding areaand swimming lessons with qualifiedinstructors.

From July 1-August 31, a week for afamily of four staying on a bed-and-

breakfast basis costs from €3,570, withan upgrade to two interconnectingdeluxe rooms, with private balcony,available on request at the time ofreservation, from €945.

Breaks include free access to the VIKClub (Tuesday to Sunday), access to theprivate beach and a 50% discount on allfood for children up to the age of 18throughout July.

Children aged seven to 12 years alsohave the chance to learn from theresort’s golf coaches, with speciallyorganised golf and sports campsrunning between July 23-29 andAugust 13-19. The camps have limitedavailability and lead in at €450 perchild. For more information visitwww.donnfugatagolfresort.com

Donnafugata Golf Resort & Spa introduces new golf packages

Typically Italian Holidays on track for another year of continued growth

S05 TB0106 Italy_Layout 1 30/05/2012 12:49

Superbreak adds new flight-inclusive packages in Milan AGENTS CAN now book flight-inclusive short break packages to Milan with Superbreak,meaning they can book flights, accommodation and extras all in one place and with ATOLprotection.

Flights are available with a range of airlines, and hotels offer flexible durations allowingagents to tailor what they book to each customer.

The operator is featuring the four-star Double Tree by Hilton Milan and a two-night flightinclusive package costs from £400 per person at weekends in October including breakfastand flights with BA from Heathrow.

The hotel is a design hotel offering free Wi-fi, LCD TV and an iPod docking station. Thetram to Milan city centre and the cathedral stops outside the hotel. For more information visit www.superbreak.com/agents or call 0871-221 4444.

INSIGHT VACATIONS has added a newitinerary, Treasures of Italy, to itsprogramme for this year.

The 11-day option leads in at£2,499 per person and covers a rangeof sights – from historic cities,islands and lakes to canals, art andfood.

Starting in Rome, guests visit theart collection of the VaticanMuseums, Roman Forum, and TheColosseum and also have free time todiscover the city at leisure. FromRome, guests travel to Pompeii where

a local guide takes them through thecobbled streets to learn about Romanlife in the first century. The tour thenventures on to the Bay of Naples andthe island of Capri, where two daysare spent, with activities such as aguided tour and scenic chairlift rideto the summit of Monte Solaro.

From Capri guests journey on toFlorence where a local guide takesguests to the Academy Gallery to seeMichelangelo’s statue of David,followed by a visit to Giotto’sbelltower, the ‘Gates of Paradise’ and

the Piazza della Signoria, an open airmuseum.

Other highlights include a visit tothe seaside village of Portofino andLake Maggiore in the Italian LakeDistrict and a trip to Venice toexperience a gondola ride. Pricesstart from £2,499 per personincluding VIP door-to-door transfers,breakfast accommodation, onehighlight lunch and two dinners.For more information call 020-7468 4335 or visitwww.onestoptouringshop.co.uk


Attraction World adds Siena to portfolio AGENTS CAN now book add-on tours and experiences in Sienawith Attraction World. The operator has added 11 new optionsincluding a cookery course, a bike tour and a wine tour, all ofwhich are fully commissionable to agents.

As examples of prices, a guided walking tour of Siena costs£20 per person, a bike tour in the countryside costs £78, a tourto Pienza & Montepulciano costs £38 and a cooking coursewith dinner costs £89. For more information or to book visit www.attractionworld.comor call 0871-700 8888.

Great Rail Journeyspromotes 11-daygastronomy tour

GREAT RAIL Journeys ishighlighting its 11-day tourfor lovers of food. Pricedfrom £2,383 per person toinclude First Class rail(Standard Premier Class onEurostar journeys with alight meal and drinks); tennights’ hotelaccommodation withbreakfast; six dinners,including a dinner oftraditional Tuscanspecialities in Florence, afive-course dinner at thePiazza del Vino includingwine tasting with a localwine expert, a specialitydinner in a local restaurantin Bologna and a rusticthree-course dinner andwine tasting at a wine estatenear Modena; two lunchesincluding an ‘agriturismo’lunch in the Tuscancountryside and a lunchmade by guests at thecookery school in Bologna; aguided tour of Florence; aguided tour of Bologna;cookery course in Bologna;a guided tour of Parma; aParmesan Cheese Factorytour; a Parma Ham tour andtasting; a wine estate tourand tasting near Modena;all transfers and theservices of a tour manager.Departures from St Pancrasin London are on June 14and August 30. For more information call01904-521980 or visitwww.greatrail.com

ARBLASTER & Clarke Wine Tours is offering a selection ofwine tours to Italy, including Opera & Wine, Wine &Gastronomy, a classic Italian wine tour, a vineyard walk and awine and city break.

A Grand Wine Tour of Italy runs between June 24 and July 3and costs from £3,450 per person. Guests arrive in Florence tobegin exploring the wines of Tuscany, Umbria, Lazio andCampania whilst travelling through Umbria, on to Rome andending in Naples.

Highlights of the trip include wine visits in Chianti; lunchwith leading Vino Nobile estate, Avignonesi; a visit to thehilltop city of Orvieto; and experiencing the food and wines ofCampania with their ancient reputation of Roman Crus.

The price includes nine nights' four- and five-star breakfastaccommodation, ten meals with wines, visits & tastings.

Other tours being promoted include an independent operaholiday to the Puccini Festival, which takes place from August9-12 for £799; a Verona Opera & Wine tour, which runs fromJuly 11-15 and July 18-22 and costs £1,450; and a PiemonteWine & Truffles Vineyard Walk from October 7-13 for £1,799. For more information visit www.winetours.co.uk

Arblaster & Clarke promotes wine tours to Italy

New nine-dayPuglia option fromIntrepid TravelINTREPID TRAVEL haslaunched a new tour toPuglia in Southern Italy,which is fast becomingthe destination of choicefor holidaymakers whowant to avoid the AmalfiCoast's tourist crowds,according to theoperator.

The 'Discover Puglia'itinerary features Romanruins, medieval towns,architecture and ruggedcoastlines and prices forthe nine-day trip startfrom £995 per person,excluding flights. For more information or to book seewww.intrepidtravel.com

italy

New 11-day ‘Treasures of Italy’ option from Insight Vacations

S05 TB0106 Italy_Layout 1 30/05/2012 12:49

THIS SUMMER, the Perdepera BeachResort in Sardinia will be exclusively runfor Mark Warner guests with ahandpicked team of chefs taking care ofthe catering. The property is just southof the village of Cardedu and wasintroduced to the operator's summerprogramme last year.

As an example of prices, a week's stayleads in at £844 per person including BAflights from Heathrow, transfers, fullboard dining with wine with the eveningmeal, sailing, windsurfing, tennis,

mountain biking and childcare forchildren aged two and over.

The company's head of Mark WarnerWorld, Robert Sanday, said: “Perdeperais a fantastic resort and we wanted to letall our guests enjoy the resortexclusively with other Mark Warnercustomers. This should help agentsbooking the resort as they can assuretheir customers that everyone stayingthere can enjoy the same facilities. Inaddition, our handpicked team of firstclass chefs are putting together a

mouth-watering menu of Italianfavourites with an authentic Sardiniantwist which we know will really appeal toour customers.”

This year the resort is also offeringfree mountain-biking hosting including amountain biking guide who will takegroups with differing levels of bikingability (easy, intermediate and high level)along one of the top mountain bike trailsin Sardinia. For more details [email protected]

SHEARINGS REPORTS that its best-sellingitineraries are its all-inclusive Lake Comoand Lake Garda options.

The company's Europe & worldwideholidays manager, Patricia Birmingham,said: “We continue to see a huge demandfor our Italian all-inclusive packages,especially to Lake Como and Lake Garda.A unique selling point for these types ofholidays is that they provide analternative to a traditional sun and seapackage, and combine a relaxing breakwith the opportunity for customers toexplore the beautiful Italian countryside."

An eight-day Lake Como package costsfrom £369 and offers accommodation atthe Hotel Britannia Excelsior, a three-starhotel situated on the edge of Lake Como,which has a pool, sun terrace and eveningentertainment. The package includes fullboard accommodation, drinks, a weeklygala dinner and show cooking.

Guests can choose to travel by expresscoach with included excursions, rail or air

and nine- and ten-day itineraries are alsoavailable, with departures throughout theyear.

A seven-day Lake Garda option leads inat £634 per person, staying at Hotel Sole,close to Malcesine. Highlights include atrip to the Dolomite mountain range aswell as excursions to Verona and southLake Garda.

Eight- and ten-day itineraries are alsoavailable at Hotel Villa Delle Rose, in thetown of Arco. Highlights of the holidayinclude a trip to the Dolomite mountainrange as well as visits to Venice and northLake Garda.

The package includes full boardaccommodation, three excursions, drinksat the hotel from 12:00 to 22:00 and coachtravel with overnight stays en-route orflights and transfers. Departures areavailable from June to October. For more information call 01942-823449 or visitwww.shearingsagent.com

Mark Warner gains exclusivity to Perdepera Beach Resort in Sardinia


italy

PETER SOMMER Travels has added a new week-long gastronomic tour of Eastern Sicily,which takes in the region's diverse cuisine and culture, with two expert guides and a groupsize limited to 12. The tour includes tastings of some of Sicily’s best cheeses, chocolate, oliveoils, honey and wines, as well as a visit to a herb farm and a cooking class. There’s also afishing trip, a walk on Mt. Etna with a volcanologist and visits to Syracuse ArchaeologicalPark, Taormina’s Roman theatre and UNESCO World Heritage Pantalica Valley Necropolis.Departing on October 6, the eight-day tour costs from £2,495 per person,based on two sharing and includes transfers, seven nights’ bed-and-breakfast accommodation (hotel/country farmhouse agriturismo), nine othermeals, all entrance fees, tastings and guides. Flights (to Palermo) are extra. For details call 01600-888220 or visit www.petersommer.com

Hotel BrunelleschiundergoesrenovationLOCATED IN the heart ofFlorence, a few minutes awayfrom the cathedral, theBrunelleschi Hotel hasundergone a completerenovation to bring to lightthe unique stylistic featuresof each of the hotel's variousbuildings, dating from the 1stcentury AD to the 19th, andincluding the remains of aRoman calidarium and of theByzantine tower that wasincorporated in the façade.

Decorative details havealso been added to enhancethe various components andcommon areas have alsobeen updated. For more information [email protected] orvisit www.hotelbrunelleschi.it

Shearings unveils best selling all-inclusive itineraries

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CARRIER IS offering free stays for children atConrad Maldives Rangali Island, which offers asaving of up to £3,380 per family. A stay sevennights for the price of six is also available, aswell as free half-board for parents and freemeals for children.Prices lead in at £2,285 per adult and from£855 per child (under 12 years) when sharingwith parents and the deals are valid untilDecember 23.

Meanwhile, at Angsana Balaclava couplescan save up to £1,230 on a seven-night stayfor the price of five nights, with an earlybooking offer. Prices lead in at 1,860 perperson on half-board and the deal is validuntil December 23 for bookings made 45 daysprior to arrival.

The company is also promoting savings ofup to £690 per couple at The ResidenceMauritius, where a seven nights for the priceof six nights is offered, along with an earlybooking reduction and complimentaryVIP card.

Prices start from £1,565 per personon half-board and the deal is validuntil September 30 for bookingsmade at least 15 days prior toarrival.

In terms of trends, thecompany reports that it iscontinuing to see strong demandfor the Indian Ocean, particularlyfor Mauritius and the Maldives.

The operator's productmanager, Mauritius &Seychelles, Alice Haynes, said:"We are pleased to announce that

Mauritius bookings are up year-on-year.September is proving popular for travel ascustomers look to take advantage of the stronghotel offers available during this period.

"Our current top selling hotels areOne&Only Le Saint Géran, Le Touessrok andThe Residence. We are also looking forward tothe launch of the refurbished Constance LePrince Maurice opening on September 1,which I am sure will be generating a lot ofinterest in the coming months. In addition toupdating the rooms, the resort will be adding anew pool, additional spa treatment rooms anda new floating bar near Le Barachois."

Sarah Gibbons, the company's seniorproduct manager for the Maldives, said:"Demand and bookings for the Maldives haveincreased recently. We are seeing a goodvolume of high value family bookingsconfirming at the moment for this summerand also for late 2012/early 2013. The best

selling property is One&Only ReethiRah, with Four Seasons ResortMaldives at Landaa Giraavaru andSoneva Gili also proving popular.

Niyama which opened in April2012, is selling well and hassome fantastic offers."

Further Indian Oceanexclusive special offers andfamily savings are alsoavailable in the operator's newLuxury Family Escapes 2012brochure.For more information or to book visit www.carrier.co.uk or call 0161-492 1358.

HIDDEN CHARMS ofBangladesh (Recce Tour) isa new trip for Wild Frontiersthat is due to launch inFebruary next year.

Highlights of the 16-daytour include a journey fromDhaka on the historicRocket steamer, a cruisethrough the landscapes ofthe Sundarbans andexploring the archaeologicalruins of Puthia andSomaparu Mahavihara, thetea plantations of Srimangaland the tribal diversity ofBandarban, one of thecountry’s most remoteregions.

Meanwhile, in Sri Lankathe operator has added thenew boutique hotel inKandy, Theva Residency,where three-night stays atthe property can beincorporated in any of its SriLanka tailor-madeitineraries such as itsClassic Sri Lanka privatetour.For more information or to book seewww.wildfrontiers.co.uk orcall 020-7736 3968.

Wild Frontiers getsset to launch newBangladesh tour

Carrier highlights selection of accommodation savings & deals

Carrier’s Alice Haynes(left) & Sarah Gibbons

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CONRAD MALDIVES Rangali Island has announced a child-friendly promotion where kids aged 12 andunder stay and eat for free, when sharing a room with their parents. Valid until December 23, the offerallows children under 12 complimentary food and accommodation, while parents receive an extranight's stay for free, complimentary upgrade to half-board basis and the whole family can dine for freeeach night during their stay. Families travelling between August 1 and October 31 also benefit fromcomplimentary seaplane transfers for the parents.

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Summer treasurehunt at FrégateIsland PrivateTHIS SUMMER FrégateIsland Private in theSeychelles is running apirate treasure hunt forfamilies to find the RoyalPortuguese Golden Cross.According to legend, theruthless French pirate LaBuse stole the RoyalPortuguese Golden Crossas it journeyed from Indiato Portugal, before buryingit on Frégate – then a wild,jungle-covered hideawayfor buccaneering brigands.While there is no X to markthe spot, the SeychellesNational Archives arehome to a mysteriousscroll purporting to be thelast will and testament ofLa Buse, which the pirateis said to have thrown fromthe gallows with his lastwords, “Find it for me!”

In between scouring thewinding jungle trails,counting out steps alongthe seven beaches andsnorkelling, families cantake part in an action-packed summer holidayprogramme includingactivities such as buildingand racing rafts, competingin sand-castlecompetitions; experiencingan authentic Seychelloisfishing trip; race crabs;and try their hands atsailing or scuba diving.

Scott Dunn is offeringseven-night family holidaysat the property from£21,920 for a family of four.The price includes sevennights' villaaccommodation for theprice of six, for two adultsand two children under 11years sharing on a fullboard basis; two hours’babysitting per day; flightsfrom Heathrow withEmirates; helicoptertransfers; taxes andservices. For more information or to book visitwww.scottdunn.com orcall 020-8682 5020.

Centara Grand Maldives introduces ultra-inclusive programmeCENTARA GRAND Island Resort & Spa Maldives is operating under a new ultra-inclusive five-star programme from January next year, giving guests a cash-free island experience thatincludes free excursions, free daily spa signature treatments, free daily mini bar, enhanceddining options and a personal trainer programme.

Designed to supersede the previous all-inclusive programme and to provide a greaternumber of benefits and enhancements, ultra-inclusive is being made available through all ofthe company's business partners authorised to conduct sales for the property. The enhancedmeal options include sparkling wine during breakfast, selected wines of the world during lunchand dinner, and the invitation to join the Sundowner Cocktail Party each evening at sunset forcomplimentary drinks and snacks.

Sparkling wine will be offered at reception upon arrival, and a selection of beer, soft drinksand mineral water is available in the guest room mini-bar and replenished daily.

There is also a choice of free excursions, available on a daily basis and guests receive a freedaily spa treatment.

The resort features 112 suites and villas and features a range of activities that will appealboth to couples and families. The resort has its own house reef complete with a dedicatedsunken shipwreck and is within easy reach of top dive spots.For more information or to book email [email protected] or visitwww.centarahotelsresorts.com

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TO CELEBRATE 60 years in the business, Beachcomber Tours has extended its 60% off half-boardaccommodation for a second guest for all travel until July 31 to eight of its Mauritian hotels plus SainteAnne Resort & Spa in the Seychelles. The company is also highlighting stays at Trou aux Biches (pictured),which has undergone a £60million makeover. Prices for seven nights lead in at £1,608 per person on ahalf-board basis including Economy flights from Heathrow. The deal offers a saving of £710 per couple.For details see www.beachcombertours.co.uk or call 01483-445621.



MAURITIUS IS proving the Indian Ocean starfor Hayes & Jarvis this year and the operatorattributes this to its luxury resorts offeringall-inclusive.

The company reports that it has seen a24% rise overall in its sales of Mauritiusholidays compared with last year, but asignificant 141% a year for resorts that offerall-inclusive packages.

The operator's commercial director, NielAlobaidi said “The importance of the dualeffect of flight and hotel savings has had amarked impact in the Indian Ocean wherethere has been very significant growth inMauritius. You can put this down to AirMauritius having offered some very attractiveflight savings, whilst hoteliers have beenequally forthcoming with offers. Where these

are based on all-inclusive arrangements,our customers have been quick to takeadvantage of the obvious value.”

One of the most popular resorts for thecompany has been Mauritius resort, theMaritim Hotel, located within the Turtle BayMarine National Park on the north-westcoast and close to both Port Louis andGrand Baie.

Recently refurbished, the property offers arange of facilities that include a choice ofthree restaurants, a tropical flower spa,nine-hole golf course, tennis courts, afitness studio, swimming pool, dive schooland equestrian centre.

Brochure prices start from £1,759 perperson for a five-night all-inclusive packageincluding Emirates flights.

New spa concept at Waldorf Astoria

Maldives WALDORF ASTORIAMaldives has revamped itsspa and renamed it De’ Spa,to unveil a selection of newtreatments and products.

A new treatment menuhas been introduced toreflect local traditionalhealing practices of theMaldives and the Orient andthe spa features 11 newtypes of massages fromtraditional Asian culturesincluding Filipino Hilotmassage, Indian crystalhealing ritual, Chineseresorting yin-yang therapyand food therapy reflex, aswell as Thai, Balinese andMaldivian massage.

Aromatherapy andwestern style massage arealso incorporated into thenew menu. Treatmentsinclude an Aroma Islandmassage using traditionalSwedish techniques; amassage using anaromatherapy and lymphaticmassage and a de-stresstreatment using a mediumto deep pressure massage.

In addition,complimentary wellnessconsultations are nowavailable for each guest.Following the consultation, abespoke spa and wellnesstreatment programme isrecommended based on theguest’s state of wellbeingand health goals.

The new treatments startfrom $170 for a Veli ModunMassage and range from110-minutes to 170-minutesduration.

indianoceanAFRICA ODYSSEY is offering a seven-night break at Ras Kutani inTanzania from £1,869 per person for selected dates in July andAugust. The price offers a saving of £376 and includes flights fromHeathrow, transfers, full board accommodation, taxes andsurcharges. Each of the nine en-suite beach cottages features aneight-foot wide bed and a large verandah with hammocks andviews of the Indian Ocean. For details see www.africaodyssey.com or call 020-7471 8780.

Hilton Maldives offers tours to first Marine National Park in MaldivesHILTON MALDIVES Iru Fushi Resort & Spa has launched an a la carte excursion to Edu Faru,the first Marine National Park (MNP) in the Maldives.

As part of the resort’s range of excursions and activities, guests can take part inexclusive snorkelling and diving excursions to the coral reefs of Edu Faru and the propertydonates $10 to the MNP Foundation Fund for every resort guest to visit the area, in supportof the project and continued preservation of the coral reefs of the site.

The resort has designed a range of excursions, allowing guests to experience Maldivianculture and nature. For example, guests can try their hand at Maldivian fishing, meet thecommunity on inhabited neighbouring islands, experience a dolphin watching excursion andtake a Robinson Crusoe deserted island experience. For more information visit www. maldivesirufushi.hilton.com

Mauritius is top seller for Hayes & Jarvis

HERITAGE THE Villas in Mauritius is offering a half-boardfamily saver package that offers a free upgrade from a two-bedroom to a three-bedroom villa, enabling families to invitetwo more friends or relatives along for the price of fourpeople.

Prices start from £905 per night on a minimum five-nightbooking or £6,335 for a seven-night stay for up to six peopleand includes the free upgrade on a half-board basis; a day'stour around the island including lunch, a picnic basket, freeexpresso capsules and bottles of water; free access to C

Beach Club and facilities of neighbouring hotels on thedomain; free unlimited access to the nine- and 18-hole Golfdu Chateau course; minibus transfers; a family food andbeverage meal package (children under 12 years eat free atC Beach Club for lunch); 24-hour concierge service and freeinternet access.

Children aged between two and 11 also have access to theTimomo & Friends Kids Club, while young adults (aged 12-18) have an exclusive space at the Cool Teens Club. For more information visit www.heritagethevillas.mu

Heritage The Villas in Mauritius offers half-board family saver package


Chaaya Reef Ellaidhoo receives award for tourism sustainability

THE FOUR-STAR Chaaya Reef Ellaidhoo has become the first resort in theMaldives to receive a Gold Award from Travelife for its efforts in sustainability.

The resort was recognised for a number of initiatives including regularsessions on awareness of energy saving for employees; composting system inresort using garden sweepings and vegetable waste from the kitchens; a wastemanagement programme whereby waste is separated at source of generation,measured for targeted reduction and a reuse, recycle and reduce policy in place;recycling of grey water from the STP plant for watering of the garden; rainwatercollection initiated and utilised; tree planting programmes; awarenessprogrammes for resort employees and nearby islanders on sustainablepractices and waste management; and regular clean-up programmes.

Set on the eastern fringes of the North Ari Atoll, Ellaidhoo Island is a smallverdant coral island. The 112-room property, also Green Globe certified, offers aselection of beach and water bungalows, a choice of restaurants, spa and avariety of experiential opportunities including island-hopping and fishing.

Kuoni is offering seven nights at Chaaya Village Habarana in August orSeptember with prices starting from £1,055 per person based on two sharingand subject to availability. Prices include half-board accommodation in astandard room, Economy Class Sri Lankan Airlines flights from Heathrow andtransfers. For details call 01306-747008 or see www.kuoni.co.uk and www.chaayahotels.com

Enchanting Holidays targets agents for business boost ENCHANTING HOLIDAYS is further developing its trade support programme for2012 to encourage agents to learn more about its products and boost bookings.

The programme includes a booking incentive of £10 per booking, doubled to£20 for first time bookings from new agents, plus a range of special offers fromthe range of four- and five-star properties in the brochure including exclusivehotels in Mauritius.

The programme also includes a series of regional hospitality events andluxury fam trips, of which the next one is taking place on June 16. For more information call 020-8951 3837 or [email protected]

We asked our staff thefollowing question this week:What's your favourite TV

advert?

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Business magazines

THE MOST expensive villa in the Seychelles is scheduled to open its doors today (June1). Prices at the exclusive Madame Zabre Villa at Desroches Island lead in at €12,000 pernight, where a team of dedicated staff, comprised of a fully trained Balinese masseuse,private chef and butler are on call 24-hours a day, seven days a week, to attend toguests’ beauty, wellbeing, culinary, general needs and requirements. The property hasits own spa suite complete with a range of Elemental Herbology treatments, threespacious bedrooms all with private pools, indoor and outdoor bathrooms, views of theIndian Ocean, an entertaining area, sun deck and a fully equipped kitchen.

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travel bulletin 1st june 2012

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