travel bulletin 26th june 2015

New Ecuadorcampaign reflects close

ties with the trade

Latin America

June 26 2015 | ISSUE NO 1,925 | www.travelbulletin.co.uk

TTM updatenews and picturesfrom the ThailandTravel Mart 2015

event bulletinimages from TravelBulletin’s Med Islandsshowcase events inCardiff & Chester

shopping holidayshow agents cancapitalise onemerging shoppingtourism trends

13 14

this weekair travelhow new servicesfrom Birminghamhave fuelled growthto Barcelona

16 27

TB2606 2015 Cover 24/06/2015 11:47

S01 TB2606 2015 Start_Layout 1 24/06/2015 11:57

The Japan National Tourism Organisation recently took a group of operators on a fam to experiencethe Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route - an international mountain sightseeing route which stretches55-miles. Pictured taking in the panoramic views at Daikanbo are, from the left: Kypros Georgiou,Global Compass UK; Stephen Glover, Kuoni Cambridge; Caroline Bright, All Leisure Holidays; andJoe Sutcliffe, Wendy Wu Tours.

Cover Pictures: M

ain- LA

PAZ

, BO

LIVIA-JA

N Cop

yright: no

useforname

Inset- Norweg

ian 73

7_80

0

3www.travelbulletin.co.uk June 26 2015

newsbulletin

PEOPLE WITH a disability or a reducedmobility are significantly less likely to haveflown in the last 12 months, with manyfearing things will go wrong, according toresearch from the Civil Aviation Authority(CAA). In total just 39% of people with a

disability are classified as ‘recent flyers’,meaning they have taken a flight in thepast year. This compares with 52% ofthose without a disability. However, the research shows that 78%

of those who request in advance thespecial assistance they are entitled to, atairports and on airlines, are either ‘verysatisfied’ (54%) or ‘satisfied’ ( 24%) withtheir air travel experience. In addition, the research also shows that

those people with a disability, who arerecent flyers, are as likely to fly multipletimes per year, as non-PRM recent flyers. Research identifies that one of the

reasons for the disparity relates toconcerns over access, including bothphysical and communication barriers,along with expectations that things couldgo wrong. However, where recent flyerspre-notified airports and airlines andrequested assistance, satisfaction levelsare high with the services provided.

The CAA’s group director for regulatorypolicy, Iain Osborne, said: “Where peoplewith reduced mobility request specialassistance in advance, they are often verysatisfied with the service they get atairports and on board airlines and some,who fly multiple times a year, are clearlyconfident flyers. However, there is asignificant number of other disabledpassengers, who have low expectationsabout air travel, and fear things will gowrong and the evidence shows this groupare infrequent or non-flyers. “Sadly it would appear one of the

biggest barriers to flying is a lack ofunderstanding and information about thespecially tailored special assistanceairports and airlines are legally obliged toprovide, which enables people with adisability or reduced mobility to go fromdeparture to arrival with minimal fuss andease. “Our role as a consumer champion is to

make sure everyone has fair access to airtravel and the opportunity to have anenjoyable experience, and we will be doingfurther work to make this happen bypromoting special assistance andimproving consistency of the serviceavailable.”

Disabled passengers still have air travel concerns despitespecial assistance according to new CAA report

This Week

3 newsa look at this week’s latestreports & industry develop-ments

8 notes from normantonfind out what Sandy hasbeen doing since her trip toGouves

9 agent bulletina round-up of agent offers &booking incentives

10 staff reviewTravel Bulletin’s Adam Potterenjoys a trip along theThames

11 puzzle bulletinplay Su Doku for yourchance to win a £50 M&Svoucher

12 bulletin briefingAITO members reflect onthe association’s annualconference

13 TTM updatenews and pictures from theThailand Travel Mart 2015

14 event bulletinimages from Travel Bulletin’sMed Islands showcaseevents in Cardiff & Chester

16 air travelhow new services fromBirmingham have fuelledgrowth to Barcelona

19 london lifea round-up of the capital’snew restaurant launches,entertainment & hotelpackages

JAPAN JAUNT...

23 sloveniaoperators highlight theirlatest package deals &promotions

25 latin americanew Ecuador campaignreflects close ties with thetrade

27 shopping holidayshow agents can capitalise on emerging shoppingtourism trends

S01 TB2606 2015 Start_Layout 1 24/06/2015 11:57

BRITISH HOLIDAYMAKERSare unintentionally splashingtheir cash abroad as theystruggle with currencyconversions, reveals newresearch from Barclaycard.

The survey concluded thatas a nation we are losing outon a staggering £341.5million per year – an averageof £1,272 per person.

The Holiday Habits studyshows that more than half(52%) of Britishholidaymakers tried to keeptrack of their spending byconverting foreign currencyinto pounds, but that just overa quarter (28%) of thesemade a mistake.

This resulted in thembuying items that theythought were overpriced(45%) or items they wouldn’thave otherwise chosen (36%).In the worst cases, one in four(27%) ran out of moneybecause of currencyconversion errors.

For just under half of those

making a mistake (44%),struggling to make a mentalcurrency conversion is thecause for the miscalculations.A similar amount panic whiletrying to make a quickdecision (42%), whilst four inten (37%) fail to rememberthe correct exchange rate inthe first place.

As a result of thesecurrency conversionmistakes, £127 was lost byeach of those whounderestimated theexchange rate – more thanenough to fund a returnflight to many popularEuropean holidaydestinations, a ChampagneAfternoon Tea at the Savoyor tickets to a top West-Endshow.

Extravagant designerpurchases are the mainculprits for overspendingabroad, closely followed byholidaymakers splashingout on local delicacies, giftsand souvenirs.

ROCKY MOUNTAINEER has launched its new 2016brochure which includes the extended Rainforest to GoldRush route, a three-day rail journey between NorthVancouver and Jasper via Whistler and Quesnel. Travellingthrough Howe Sound, Squamish and Cheakamus Canyon toconnect the world-class destinations of Vancouver andWhistler, the extended route will provide guests with anexclusive look at some of the most stunning scenery inBritish Columbia.The company's director of sales EMEA, Patrick Ryan,

said: “We’re delighted to be launching our 2016 brochureearlier than ever in the UK. Although our 25th anniversaryseason is in full swing, we are already looking forward tonext year and the exciting enhancements we’ll be offeringour guests, including the much-anticipated extendedRainforest to Gold Rush route.” The theme of the new brochure is ‘Prepare to be Truly

Moved’ and the new publication highlights four steps onhow to ‘get moving’ and build a unique rail journey,providing a range of options to fully customise a NorthAmerican holiday.As an example of prices, a seven-night Western Explorer,

which takes in the must-see sights of the CanadianRockies including Vancouver, Jasper, Lake Louise, Banffand Calgary, costs from £1,944 per person, while a ten-night Golden Circle via Whistler leads in at £3,212.For details visit agent.rockymountaineer.com

Inghams supports agents with specialsaving on Italy breaks for loyal clients INGHAMS IS offering guests a new deal of £50 per persondiscount when they re-book an Italy holiday with the sametravel agent they previously booked with. The offer is valid for bookings made between June 2 and

December 31 for either summer 2015 or summer 2016bookings on holidays of seven nights or longer. The operator has written to the agents who qualify with

an invitation and a letter which they can send on to theircustomers. The letter is made up completely with the travelagent’s contact details and explains how the processworks. The travel agent will be issued a specific code whichthey can use to redeem the £50 per person discount onbehalf of their repeat customers.As an example of packages, a three-night breakfast stay

at the four-star Hotel Monaco and Grand Canal in Venicecosts from £699 per person for holidays taken in July andAugust. The price is based on two sharing and includesflights from Gatwick and transfers. For more information visit www.inghamsitaly.co.uk or call 01483-791115.

Rocky Mountaineer’s 2016 brochure offersextended Rainforest-Gold Rush route

Confusion over currency conversions costsBrits nearly £350million each year

www.travelbulletin.co.ukJune 26 20154

newsbulletin

A SAIL OF A TIME...Pictured on a Dubai Tourism fam trip at theBurj Al Arab are, from the left: Stacy Dobson, Teletext holidays;Samantha Buckley, Central England Co-operative; SangitaMakwana, Dubai Tourism; Katie Winstanley and Rachel Sutcliffe,Gold Medal; Bruce Canty, Arrangemygroup; Polly Minchin,Tranquillity Travel; Andrew Hall, Qantas; Jane Langford, GoldMedal; and Linda Fowler, Fred Olsen Travel.

S01 TB2606 2015 Start_Layout 1 24/06/2015 11:57


LHR service to Detroit from Virgin AtlanticVIRGIN ATLANTIC has become the only British airline tolaunch a daily service to Detroit from Heathrow, connectingwith Delta Air Lines flights to other US cities such as NewOrleans, St Louis, Indianapolis, Salt Lake City andNashville.

The Virgin service is being operated by an A330-300 with33 Upper Class seats, 48 in Premium Economy and 185 inEconomy, with return fares from £609. Details at www.virginatlantic.com

New trade website from Celebrity CELEBRITY CRUISES has relaunched its shore excursionwebsite for travel partners.

Following the recent unveiling of a newly designed shoreexcursions programme with new special-interestcategories and more destination experiences, theinteractive hub provides travel partners with rich contentfor planning clients’ holidays.

The online resource offers a one-stop shop for access toall the latest information on the line’s destinationexperiences. Travel agents can also learn more about theadvantages of booking shore excursions, see tour clips andplan their clients’ personalised destination experiencesbased on their interests.For further information or to make a booking visitcelebrityshoreexcursions.com

newsbulletin

Newsbites● KIMPTON HOTELS & RESTAURANTS is scheduled to

open Hotel Vintage in Downtown Portland as a wine-themed hotel following a $16million redesign andupgrade. The hotel, which is scheduled to open thissummer, will offer 117 guestrooms. Also scheduled toopen is Hotel Van Zandt in Austin, Texas, which willfeature 319 guestrooms, 41 suites and an outdoorterrace pool and bar. See www.hotelvintage-portland.com,www.hotelvanzandt.com and www.kimptonhotels.com.

● CRUISE AND MARITIME VOYAGES (CMV) ishighlighting two 50th Anniversary cruises thissummer on Marco Polo. The first departs Tilbury onJuly 24 for 36 nights to Canada and Greenland, withprices from £1,999 per person, and the second cruisesails on September 7 for 34 nights from Tilbury toCanada, with prices from £1,799. Prices are based ontwo people sharing an inner cabin on a full boardbasis with afternoon tea and late night snacksincluded. Also included are daytime activities, a guestspeaker programme, evening ‘big show’entertainment, complimentary tea and coffee (06:00-22:00) and porterage of luggage. See www.cruiseandmaritime.com or call 0844-998 3877 for details.

LONDON WILL welcome two new MBNAThames Clippers vessels thisSeptember with Galaxy Clipper andNeptune Clipper joining the fleet andproviding additional capacity across theThames river network.

The new boats are the first newadditions to the popular fleet of highspeed catamarans since 2008 and, with

an investment of £6.5million, will beamong the most technically advancedinland river and harbour fast ferries inthe world.

Sean Collins, chief executive officerfor MBNA Thames Clippers, said:“These arrivals are not only a majormilestone for our business, but also forthe London transport network. London

is in its infancy compared to other citiesin the world when it comes tocommuting and travelling by river andwe are excited to be leading the way inmaking more of the River Thames as akey part of the Capital’s infrastructure.”For further details visitwww.thamesclippers.com (London Life- page 19)

Thames Clippers invests £6.5million in new vessels for September launch

THE LIFE OF LUXOR…Cyplon

Holidays took a groupof agents on a fam trip to Luxor

recently. Pictured enjoying the high life are,from the left, going clockwise: Vikki Ure, Cyplon; Stephen

Worswick, Highgate Travel; Paige Knight, Norad Travel; JeromeDowner, Cyplon; Antonios Tawfik and Bassem Azmy, Emilio Cruise Boat; Isobel

Stone, Tony Sheldon Travel; Tina Sweeney and Evelyn Hattley, Independent Travel Experts;Megan Jacobs, Perfect Weddings Abroad; and Suzan Scott, Senses Travel.

S02 TB2606 2015 News 1_Layout 1 24/06/2015 12:01

SERENITY HOLIDAYS has announced the launch of itsnewest travel brand, The Goa Experience, with packageand tailor-made holidays for winter 2015/16 on sale now.

The operator’s dedicated website presents a collection of18 handpicked hotels ranging from two-and-a-half-star tofive-star deluxe within the north, south and central regionsof Goa, which include Boutique and Unique hotels that areexclusive to the new brand. Multi-centreholidays can also be arrangedas well as short tours of Indiaand a variety of excursions.

Holidays are available fortravel from November 3 andlead in at £669 per person,including flights and transfers,based on seven nights'breakfast stay.

A 48-page dedicated brochurewill be launched early nextmonth and travel agents canpre-order supplies ahead of itsrelease via

www.goaexperience.co.uk/brochureAgents can also register for product training including a

30-minute webinar on Tuesday June 30 at 09:45 by calling0845-330 2066 or emailing [email protected] For more information see www.goaexperience.co.uk

CANADIAN AFFAIR has launched its 2016 holidayprogramme and is offering 5% off a range of rail and cruisetours in and around Canada for bookings made by 21:00 onJune 30, when flights and holidays are booked at the sametime.

As an example of offers, a Rocky Mountaineer trainadventure from Vancouver to Calgary costs from £1,529 perperson including Economy Class flights from Gatwick,three nights’ accommodation in Banff, three nights inVancouver and a two-day Rocky Mountaineer rail journey inSilverleaf Service, based on travel between April 28 andMay 5, 2016. For details visit www.canadianaffair.com or call 020-7616 9933.

LBA boosts disabled facilities WITH AN investment of £12,000, Leeds Bradford Airporthas introduced new toilet facilities for disabled passengersin the departure lounge ready for the peak summer period.The ‘Changing Places’ facility can be used by anypassenger, adult or child and includes features such as anoverhead track hoist, an adjustable changing bench, apeninsular toilet and privacy screens. An increase in spacefor disabled passengers and their carers has also beenprovided to allow added privacy and comfort.

Access to the new disabled toilet (located close to Gate 9)will be provided by contacting the terminal team via thetelephone adjacent to the facility. Passengers can alsocontact the team on 0871-288 2288 prior to arrival toarrange access. (Air Travel - page 16)

June saving from Canadian Affair


newsbulletin

THE DESIGNER TOUCH…. Vanessa Clifford of Mainline Travel wasthe lucky winner of Titan’s May Madness competition and pickedup a Mulberry Tessie Tote bag from the operator’s Sharon Tait.The company’s Juicy June competition gives agents the chance towin a £250 food voucher to fill their fridge. To enter, agentsshould email their June bookings [email protected]

Serenity announces new travel brand- The Goa Experience

FANCY A RIDE?…Sally Richards, sales consultant for AvalonWaterways, was the lucky winner of a sales incentivecompetition when she booked the highest revenue in thecontact centre over a two-month period. Sally won a VIPchauffeur-driven limousine experience to take her for ashopping spree, drinks and dinner in London. Picturedpresenting Sally with her prize is the company's David Binns.

S02 TB2606 2015 News 1_Layout 1 24/06/2015 12:01

newsbulletin

Free extensions with Wendy Wu Tours WENDY WU Tours has relaunched its offer of a free two-night Cambodia trip to customers booking any of its fully-inclusive Vietnam tours.

The Cambodia extension includes flights from Vietnam,breakfast accommodation in Siem Reap, transfers and afull day tour of Angkor Wat.

A free two-night Hong Kong trip is also available tocustomers booking any fully inclusive China tour. Theextension is based in the Eaton Hotel in Hong Kong’sKowloon district and includes breakfast accommodation,transfers and a half-day Hong Kong Island tour.

The free extensions offer a saving of £800 per couple andboth are offered in conjunction with Cathay Pacific.

Bookings must be made by July 3 and travel is valid onselected departures between September 1 and May 31,2016. For more information visit www.wendywutours.co.uk


MONARCH HOLIDAYS is searching for the UK’s bestjunior travel writer, aged between seven and 14, toexperience an all-inclusive seven-night family holiday tothe Be Live Playa la Arena resort in Tenerife, for travelbefore October 31.

The winner’s review of the trip will then be publishedon the group’s blog and in the airline’s inflight magazine.

Entrants should write about their perfect holiday in nomore than 300 words and submit this by July 3 on emailto [email protected]

The winner will be selected based on the quality ofwriting, grammar, use of vocabulary and creativity.

What does a Polar bear and northern Francehave in common? The answer is the FrenchNational Sea Centre, Nausicaa, in Boulogneand its latest exhibition Ocean & Climate:Getting hot in here! It draws attention to the importance of theoceans in climate regulation and includes a3D film with special effects but is only partof the interactive educational attraction,which apart from several tanks of variousspecies, has a tropical lagoon, touch pool,shark aquarium, penguin beach and anoutdoor sea lion show. Meanwhile, inDecember, Paris will host the 21st climateconference, Paris Climat 2015. Details ofprices for admission for individuals, groups,school parties, families and disabled visitorscan be seen at www.nausicaa.fr

Monarch project offers work experience for kids

BEAR NECESSITIES...

S02 TB2606 2015 News 1_Layout 1 24/06/2015 12:01

JUST GOT back from a wonderful week at theKaissa Apts in Gouves – it’s like my secondhome. Wonderful meals and also spending time

at the Paradise Restaurant and Anfield Bar forlovely lunches. I even managed to get another catdone – Wolfie! Also took Tiger to the vet as his goodeye (he had an eye taken out in winter when he got agrass seed in it) keeps getting infected and the vetsaid it was a third eye lid that causes it so he hasremoved it and put some stitches in – he must bethe only stray cat in Greece with a bucket on hishead! But it is looking so much better – I really dowant to bring him home with me when I go backagain in Sept. Just got a couple of airlines to try yet.I really don’t think he will last the winter withoutproper shelter.

I cannot believe all this horrendous media aboutthe economy of Greece and queues at ATM machines– what queues? I want to see some pictures – I haveseen no mass hysteria or panic in Gouves, Stallis orMalia. Why are these stories being allowed tospread? It is so damaging!

Watched the programme on TV ‘Tonight’ about thebad cabin air that pilots etc., (and us) have tobreathe. The press would be better off concentratingon that subject – the cabin air issue is not going togo away – I hope BA is not going to do a ThomasCook on it! Grasp the nettle and get it sorted,otherwise it is going to turn into a compensationissue. Two pilots Matthew Bass & Richard Westgateknew they were dying and before he died RichardWestgate instructed his lawyers to sue BA foralleged breach of health & safety guidlines. Thelawyers want to give him the trial he never got!That is a dangerous situation for the airlines sosomething has to be done sooner rather than later!Their families must be devastated.

‘The future belongs to the few of us still willing toget our hands dirty’ and You can’t use up creativity.The more you use, the more you have’.

by SANDRA MURRAYin Normanton, Yorkshire

Notes from

Normanton...

To respond to any of Sandy’s comments email

[email protected]

newsbulletin


Newsbites● VIRGIN TRAINS has brought on board British

designers, HemingwayDesign - led by WayneHemingway MBE and Gerardine Hemingway MBE -to revamp its uniform. The new uniform, which willbe ready from late 2016, is set to bring a distinctivelook to the company's frontline team.

● THE ISTANBUL Convention & Visitors Bureau(ICVB) has published its Istanbul Visitors Guidewhich contains sections on history, entertainment,accommodation, shopping, eating, drinking and thearts. To download a copy see http://bit.ly/1cQrcLD

● TO CELEBRATE the addition of new activities forthis year, Musement (an online travel activitybooking site which offers commission to agents)has launched its #skiptheline campaign, wheretravellers are being encouraged to confess ifthey’ve ever managed to head straight to the frontof the queue on holiday. For details seewww.musement.com

● SOJERN HAS announced that it delivered a record$1billion travel bookings for its clients,representing almost 3.5 million reservationsworldwide last year. The company has alsounveiled a new website that reflects its updatedsolutions and branding. See www.sojern.com

● HARD ROCK HOTEL Ibiza has revealed two-timeBRIT Award winner Tinie Tempah is bringing a one-of-a-kind pool party residency to its open-air stageevery Tuesday from June 30 to September 8. TinieTempah’s Pool Party will include performances andDJ sets from the British rapper plus DJ Charlesyeach week, as well as special guest performancesand DJ sets throughout the summer. Entry to TinieTempah’s Pool Party is free for hotel guests and 15euros for non-guests. Seewww.hrhibiza.com/events-calendar.aspx

easyJet offers new route to Mahon fromLondon Southend Airport

EASYJET is operating a new route to Mahon, Menorca fromLondon Southend Airport, with the first flight departingtoday.

Fares are offered from £30.99 one-way and flightsoperate twice-weekly.

Neil Slaven, the airline’s UK commercial manager, said:“We’re delighted to be adding Mahon to our range ofdestinations from Southend in a move which provides ourpassengers another summer holiday destination from theairport, further strengthening our already comprehensiveEuropean flight network. It also highlights our commitmentto providing affordable routes for both leisure and businesspassengers from the airport and we’re sure that it willprove extremely popular.”

S02 TB2606 2015 News 1_Layout 1 24/06/2015 12:01

● OCEANIA CRUISES is offering agents theopportunity to win a cruise for two, withsecond and third prizes of iPad minis and£100 Love2Shop vouchers. Every bookingmade by July 2 will be entered into theprize draw, with the winner drawn onJuly 16. The star prize of a verandastateroom for two can be taken on any2015 European sailing up to 14 nightsand includes flights and gratuities plusthe usual complimentary specialitydining. For details [email protected]

● CRYSTAL CRUISES is running its ‘Sell3/Sail Free’ and ‘Sell 6/Sail PH’ incentiveprogrammes that reward agents sellingthree staterooms on any of the 2017World Cruise segments with acomplimentary voyage for two; and thoseselling six staterooms on 2017 WorldCruise segments with Penthouseaccommodation for their voyage. Agentscan choose to sail on Crystal Symphonyand Crystal Serenity voyages from April-December 2017, excluding holidaysailings. For details call 020-7399 7601 or visitwww.crystalcruises.co.uk

● TO MARK the launch of its Prestige(Business) Class seat, Korean Air isoffering agents the chance to win £500in Love2Shop vouchers amongst otherprizes when they make a booking byJuly 17. For a chance to win, agents shouldcomplete the form online athttps://www.surveymonkey.com/r/KE908 BEER CHEER...Visions Holiday Group recently ran a competition for

agents in conjunction with Air Namibia. The aim was to raiseawareness of the destination and airline and to win a hamper ofNamibian Beer (Windhoek). Pictured are the winners - Claire Moxley(left) and Juliet James (middle) from Traveltime in Gerrards Crosswith the operator's Abbey Thomas.

Booking incentives


agentbulletin

AGENT OFFERAGENTS MAKING early bookings on Orlandoholidays can pass on a special offer to theircustomers. By booking theme park tickets withDoSomethingDifferent.com, customers will receive afree My Memory Maker photo package at WaltDisney World Florida worth $169 (£110) with allOrlando theme park ticket bookings.My Memory Maker enables families to get profes-sional and memorable photos at Disney PhotoPasslocations throughout the parks, and on some ridesand attractions. Bookings must be for 2016departures, be for 14 days or more including WaltDisney World tickets, and there will be one compli-mentary My Memory Maker package per booking. Details at www.dosomethingdifferent.com or call 020-8090 3890.

www.voyages-sncf.eu

SUMMER IS HERE - TO CELEBRATE WE ARE GIVING YOU THE CHANCE TO WIN A BBQ!

To enter - Make 1 booking on our website- 5 wicker picnic hampers also on offer- Enter by 30 June 2015- Visit our website for the full details T’s and C’s apply, see website 0844 848 4066

Web:

Call:

Don’t miss out!Last chance to enter

S03 TB2606 2015 News 2_Layout 1 24/06/2015 12:04

River Cruise Line adds ‘Captain’sChoice’ departures for 2016TO MEET popular demand, the River Cruise Line hasannounced the addition of three more departure dates in2016 for its latest eight-day ‘Captain’s Choice’ itinerary,bringing the total number of departures to five.

Created to celebrate Captain Wido Arts’ 15th year at thehelm of the Lady Anne, the itinerary takes passengers tosome of the less travelled parts of Holland.

Departures are now available on a choice of five dates inJune and July next year, priced from £739 per person.

The price is based on two adults sharing an en-suitecabin on a full board basis, including travel from the UK;coach travel to join the cruise; and the services of a cruisemanager and director throughout.For more information visit www.rivercruiseline.co.uk or call 0844-544 7580.

New ticket pricing from Big Bus ToursSummer tourists to the capital will be able to tailor theirBig Bus Tours' experience to their trip with the ability tochoose from one-, two- or three-day tickets.

Family tickets range from £72.99 (one-day) to £89.99(three-day) and all tickets include the operator’s Red andBlue routes, with live and recorded commentary in 12languages, respectively.

All passengers can also make use of the Purple Linehotel return service and the Green Link northern extension,in addition to use of City Cruises' river boat service and achoice of three themed guided walks.

For the first time, passengers can also choose from aNight Tour service with family tickets priced at £46.

ROUND THE WORLD…Thomson Travel in Bexleyheath, Kent booked aRound the World cruise for a client with Cruise and Maritime Voyages(CMV), which announced its maiden Round the World cruise in 2017just weeks ago. The company’s Jodie Stuart (second from left) poppedinto the branch with a box of chocolates to thank the agency. Picturedwith Jodie are, from the left: the agency’s Claire Feller, ShameemKhan, Lesley Collier and Pat Catherside.

staffreviewTravel Bulletin’s Adam Potter went on a Thames

Sundowner Cruise with City Cruises. Here’s what hethought of the experience…

If you'd like to take part in an agent review (and receive a £10M&S voucher) email [email protected] or call 020-7834 6661 with your name and contact details.

First impressions ................................8/10

Boarding was speedy and welcoming, complete with acheery introduction from the captain.

Comfort ..............................................7/10

Shipshape (excuse the pun) but simple, most of our timewas spent on the top deck. Capacity for each cruise is 200but with 70 on board this gave plenty of room to loungeupon the wooden benches.

Quality ..............................................10/10

Good quality Champagne was offered on arrival and thesmooth jazz played by our saxophonist did not disappoint.There’s something special about floating under TowerBridge, sun gleaming off the water, as the ‘The Girl fromIpanema’ melodically washes over you.

Affordability ........................................9/10

Tickets are £27 with selected dates discounted at 30% off.A real snip for a two-hour cruise that lets you take in aunique angle of London.

Service ................................................9/10

Staff were well presented and canapés well timedthroughout. Special mention goes to the head waiter whowas very courteous, carrying my order of wine from the barto the top deck.

Good to know ............................................Cruise days are Wednesday - Sunday leaving Westminsterpier at 18.30. For dates, offers andbookings visit www.citycruises.com

Overall scoring: .................. 810/

newsbulletin


S03 TB2606 2015 News 2_Layout 1 24/06/2015 12:04

puzzlebulletin


Where Am I?

The city of ten thousand shrines and formally acapital for 1000 years

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, July 2nd. Solution and new puzzle will

appear next week.

The winner for 12th June is Jeni Conetta, STA travel

in Kent.

June 12 Solution: A=4 B=9 C=3 D=8

➠A

➠B

➠C

➠D

Number: 025

Travagrams

Across 1. Flag carrier of Spain (6)4. Instrument displayed on the UK Royal Coat of Arms (4)7. Hampshire coastal town, home to the Royal

Navy Submarine Museum (7)9. Popular Greek island destination (5)10. First name of Bridget Jones actress (5)11. African country, initially (3)12. Chris, taking over the wheel on Top Gear (5)14. Resort area and national park on Australia's

Sunshine Coast (5)16. This body of water is the lowest on

Earth (4,3)18. Scotland's most famous loch (4)19. Capital of Tasmania (6)

Down 1. He plays the nonagenarian Mr Holmes at a

cinema near you (3,8)2. Mountain overlooking the resort of

Gindelwald (5)3. Reptile and airport code for Alice Springs (3)5. Ballroom dancer, ___ Du Beke (5)6. New BBC1 adventure game show (6,5)8. Football club in short, based at White Hart

Lane (5)10. Spend them in 11 Across (5)13. South American mountain chain (5)15. Japanese city (5)17. Doha 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 30

Crossword

Su Doku

Num

ber:

025

Short break specialist whose tagline reads: ‘For Discerning Travellers’

Good diving spot down under

Oak Drily Shriek

A Rear Brief Regret

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

S03 TB2606 2015 News 2_Layout 1 24/06/2015 12:04

AND RELAX! It’s always a mix of satisfaction,relief and sadness when the overseas AITOconference comes to an end, and this year’s

joint conference – which took place in Cordoba, Spain– was particularly special. Months of planningculminated in one of the best conferences we’ve hadto date and the feedback has been outstanding. Weasked a few operators and agents what they thought..

David Holland, African Pride (AITO tour operator)As a relatively new member of AITO (two years), thiswas my second overseas conference and my first jointone. I found the mix of operators and agents to be awinning formula. It was firstly good to share industryissues with other AITO operators, who I wouldn’tnormally see at other events, and secondly, to havequality time with our AITO travel agency partners.The range and quality of speakers and presentationswere excellent, resulting in some thought-provokingmessages and a number of useful pointers to bringback to the office and develop further. It was a veryworthwhile and productive few days.

Niall Douglas, Full Circle Travel (AITO travel agent)The AITO joint conference was without doubt one ofthe best conferences I have ever attended. Thespeakers were an excellent combination ofinspiration, ideas and advice. My tips include keep onstrengthening relationships, never sit on your laurels– be dynamic - and continually evolve. Having a jointconference with the operators is ideal, as all partiesbenefit from relevant business sessions and thenetworking is invaluable. Cordoba was stunning andwas an incredible venue for the conference.

Mary-Anne Nelson, Journey Latin America (AITO tour operator)I have only been to two other conferences, bothagents, overseas and domestic, and very much likethis new format. It allows you to meet a wider rangeof people – agents, tour operators and associates. Ifound the talks very current and relevant – for somepeople, it was a reaffirmation of what they are alreadydoing and for some, new subject matter. It was apractical view of current trends and a ‘call to order’,

on what we need to do to stay ahead of the game asthe market grows and becomes more competitive,specialised and tech-savvy.

Melanie Williams, Hermes Travel (AITO travel agent)Firstly, the choice of venue for the conference wastruly magnificent. One of the main things I have takenback to the office is to look beyond the beaches ofSpain. I was lucky enough to be invited on the KirkerHolidays’ pre-conference fam trip, visiting Seville andBaeza to name just a few inland cities. On the firstday of the conference, speakers from Google/EcoFrontiers and TripAdvisor enthralled the delegateswith graphs on trending, using visual marketing andexplaining the importance of asking customers toparticipate with their holiday videos and photos: animportant message in this ever-changing industry. Onday two, Rob Forkan – co-founder of Gandys FlipFlops – gave an inspirational talk on their journeyfrom Tsunami Orphans to building an Orphanage inSri Lanka, providing us with invaluable advice on howto build a successful brand from scratch andrealising your goals.

For everyone else who made the effort to attend(including booking their own flights and traintickets!), we do hope they were rewarded with afantastically surprising destination, useful conferencebusiness sessions, as well as informative networkingevents. We know it was a slightly more complicatedformat than usual, but we really appreciatedeveryone’s determination and allegiance to AITO.Huge thanks go to the National Spanish TouristOffice, Andalusian Tourist Office and Cordoba Touristoffice for being so terribly generous and hosting us insuch a wonderful city.

Industry Insight by...

Gemma Antrobus, AITO Agents’ chair, highlights delegates’ thoughts on the joint conference...

bulletinbriefing

"The range and quality of speakers

and presentations were excellent,

resulting in some thought-provoking

messages and useful pointers..."


S03 TB2606 2015 News 2_Layout 1 24/06/2015 12:04

The return of consumer confidenceDespite the various challenges of 2014, the announcement ofthe latest visitor arrival statistics revealed an all-round boostfor Thailand, demonstrating that the destination remainsresilient and that consumer confidence has returned both inthe UK market, and globally. In the first quarter of this yearthere was an increase of 2.18% in UK visitors and 19% globally. Tanes Petsuwan, executive director for the Tourism Authorityof Thailand (TAT) - Europe, Middle East and Africa, said:“Thailand and TAT are lucky as we have very supportivepartners. Thai and UK relations are very good and Thailand’scontinued success as one of the world’s most popular holidaydestinations would not be possible without the great support oftour operators and travel agents.”

In the UK market, the target is to increase the number offirst time visitors to Thailand through inspirational, contentdriven campaigns and more national and regional focusedmarketing.

Petsuwan said: “The travel trade is very important to us andThailand’s success is largely due to the trade. We run severalfam trips a year, along with a travel agent training programmeand national roadshows (ten cities a year). We also holdquarterly market update meetings with tour operators and UKbased representatives. All of this, combined with agents’commitment to keep learning, contributes to continued growth

in arrivals.”

A new perception of ThailandTAT’s acting governor, Juthaporn Rerngronasa, said: “DiscoverThainess 2015, our latest marketing campaign, has been asuccess in helping to create a new perception of Thailand andencourage tourists to take part in more engaging andenriching experiences whilst on holiday. Thailand’s USPs (orThainess), such as its history, cultural activities and local wayof life, are what sets it apart from any other Asian destinationand this has given Thailand a competitive advantage resultingin increased arrivals and expenditure. “At its core this campaign highlights that Thailand is more

than just beautiful beaches. Experiences are wideranging –from learning to become a Mahout and having a go atThai boxing, to learning the art of Thai massage or trying acookingclass.”

TAT is currently highlighting 12 Hidden Gem destinations;the campaign was initially launched in 2013 to the Thaidomestic market but has been adapted for internationalvisitors as part of ‘Discover Thainess’ year. The objective is toinspire tourists to explore new areas and spread tourist arrivalsand expenditure. Amongst these ‘Hidden Gems’ includeLampang in the north, Trat in the north east and Trang andNakhin Si Thammarat (Khanom) in the south.

According to the tourism authority, Discover Thainess hasalready helped provide the trade with a clear direction on itsmarketing campaign aims, and TAT is encouraging agents tocontinue working together to promote new destinations andadded value experiences.For more information visit www.tatnews.org


The annual Thailand Travel Market (TTM) took place in Bangkokearlier this month, where 374 Thai suppliers (21% of which werefirst time exhibitors) met with 362 buyers from 50 countries. The largest source markets includedthe UK, with 28 tour operators, along with China, Australia, India, South Africa and the US.

The Aloft Bangkok Sukhumvit hosted more than 50 UK operatorsand agents at its poolside splash bar (pictured). Lothar Pehl, seniorvice president operations & global initiatives for Starwood Hotels &Resorts Asia Pacific, said: "Thailand has been an attractivedestination for the UK market throughout 2015 and the 23 StarwoodHotels & Resorts in Thailand have been at the forefront of thatpopularity; for which we thank our wholesale industry partners fortheir continued support.”

The Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel accommodated some of thedelegates from the TTM. The hotel’s general manager, Titiya Chooto,said: “Having just been renamed from the Four Seasons HotelBangkok to Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel, we are proud tocelebrate the launch of our new luxury property as Anantara’sflagship hotel, and look forward to extending our Thai hospitality todiscerning guests.”

Pictured enjoying the party vibe with models at Centara Hotels &Resorts’ Songkran Revisted party are, from the left: Andrew Morgan,THG Hoidays; Rebecca Turner, Gold Medal; Brendan Barry, East CorkTravel; Oscar Lopera, Stella Travel; John Spencer, Destinology; MattClift, TUI UK; Alex Wilson, Kenwood Travel; and Jamie Crisp (frontrow), Centara Hotels & Resorts.

S04 TB 2606 2015 News 3 _ Pix Mix_Layout 1 24/06/2015 12:22


Travel Bulletin held its Mediterranean Islands showcase events atThe Park Inn by Radisson in Cardiff and the Crowne Plaza Chester inChester last week. Agents were treated to a buffet dinner, informalnetworking plus the chance to win a range of prizes...

CHESTER

EXCITING TIMES… Excite Holidays’ Adrian Marpole (left)showcases his programme to, from the left: Sion Jones andMaxeen Hughes from Teithiau Menai Travel and Kathy Prescottand Gaynor Higgins from Luxury Leisure Travel.

eventbulletin

TEAM STA… Pictured are agentsfrom STA Travel – from the left:Ben Walton, Joanne Harrisonand Lauren Gathercole.

CULLEN’S COUP…Nicola Cullen from Sandy LaneTravel won a place on a fam trip to Cyprus from SteliosConstantinides from the Cyprus Tourist Office.

PRIZE PAIR…Michael Atkinson from CoOperative Travel won an AegeanAirlines’ goodie bag from Vicky Bray.

UP & AWAY...Kathryn Robinsonfrom Flight Centre won a hotelstay with Constantinou Brosfrom Mark Richardson.

HALKIDIKI HOUSE…Sandra Bruce (third from left)from the Halkidiki Tourist Office chats with, from theleft: Michelle Hallett and Amanda Rudham fromTravel Counsellors and Gwyneth Prosser, HilaryLopez and Michelle McLaughlin, Travel Counsellors.

TOP TABLE…From the left are: Gaynor Daviesand Karen Cioma-Park from Chester TravelConnection with Kerry Cook, CarolineJeacock and Liz Watts from Deva Travels.



eventbulletinCARDIFF

CHOC-AHOY…David Perry fromFreeway Travel collects prizedraw chocolates from TravelBulletin’s Gemma Reeve.

READY & WAITING…Pictured ready to welcomeagents are, from the left: Stelios Constantinides,Cyprus Tourist Office; Matt Walder, Aegean Airlines;and Kiriakos Liolios, Greek National Tourist Board.

YES WE KANIKA…Pictured with Darren Eade (standing)from Kanika Hotels are, from the left: Suzanne Rowlands,Claire Morgan, Anita Brewster, Barbara Chidgey andMelanie McCarthy from Tailor Made Travel.

BUBBLES & TRUFFLES…MarkMaunder won bubbles and

truffles from Cyplon Holidays’Jayne Scott.

TABLE TALK…Anastasios Pissas (left) and Kiriakos Liolios (second from left) from theGreek National Tourist Board chat with, from the left: Karen Hudd and Peter Breezefrom Thomas Cook and Lloyd Morris and Jennifer Gibbons from Regal Travel.

IN THE BAG…Jennifer Gibbonswins an Aegean Airlines’ goodiebag from Matt Walder.

CHECKING-IN… Curtis Evans (right) from Eastgate Travel wona hotel stay from Eagles Palace. Pictured presenting Curtiswith his prize is Travel Bulletin’s Simon Eddolls.


BIRMINGHAM AIRPORT has recently announced thelaunch of two new services to Barcelona, with Vuelingand Norwegian. Vueling, which offers a British Airways’

codeshare, allowing passengers to redeem BA air miles andAvios points, launched in May and operates up to five timesweekly. This was quickly followed by the introduction ofNorwegian’s twice-weekly service, operating each Mondayand Friday.

These two additions, combined with Monarch andRyanair’s existing services to the city, gives passengers thechoice of up to 16 flights per week in total.

So what’s the big attraction with Barcelona? Rather thanfocus on the city’s better known tourist attractions likeGaudi’s Sagrada Familia and Camp Nou – home to FC.Barcelona – let’s take a brief look at what else the city has tooffer:

THE POBLE NOU CEMETERYBarcelona is a busy place, just like any other major city. If

you want to escape the hustle and bustle of La Rambla,quieter corners can be found. The Poble Nou cemetery isBarcelona’s answer to the well known Père Lachaise cemeteryin Paris. It’s often deserted but crammed with extravagantvaults and tombs, showcasing some amazing stonework.Visiting ‘El Petó de la Mort’ (the Kiss of Death) is an absolutemust – a fascinating, yet macabre work of marble. While PobleNou may not boast famous names like Chopin, Jim Morrisonand Oscar Wilde, it’s still well worth a visit.

EL ENCANTS VELLSEl Encants Vells is Barcelona’s oldest and biggest flea

market. Visiting ‘the old charms fair’ (its literal translation) isa very different experience to visiting the designer shops thatadorn Barcelona’s tree-lined Passeig de Gràcia, – arguablythe city’s second most famous street after La Rambla. ElEncants Vells is a great place to sharpen your haggling skills,whether you’re after old maps, books, antiquities and otheroddities. The market is open Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridaysand Saturdays from early morning to mid-afternoon.

MONTSERRATThe multi-peaked mountain of Montserrat is another

out-of-town ‘must see’, approximately one hour fromBarcelona by train. It offers great walks with incredibleviews at the summit, boasting some of the most unusualrock formations in the whole of Catalonia along the way.When planning your trip to Montserrat, packing sensiblewalking shoes is advised! For the slightly less intrepid, youcan take a funicular to the top instead. The mountain isalso home to a Benedictine Abbey, as well as beingidentified in Arthurian myth as the location of the HolyGrail!

FOOD AND DRINKMany of Barcelona’s best restaurants, tapas bars and

nightlife can be found in the Poble-sec area of the city. Itsevolution from seedy to ultra-cool is almost complete,boasting many arts institutions and fashionable nights out.Speaking of nights out, it is said Barcelona is the home ofthe vermouth revolution, currently in full swing acrossEurope. Commonly in Barcelona, this drink is sipped withplenty of ice, with a slice of orange and a salty anchovyolive too. Another beverage synonymous with Barcelona ishorchata - a rich, cold milk-based drink made fromalmonds or tiger nuts. It’s served ice cold, as a naturalrefreshment in the summer. Meanwhile, brunch inBarcelona is kind of a big deal too, especially on Sundays –with the queues to prove it! Expect thick, rich avocado,salsa, herbs, warm spices and eggs.

So there you have it. There is much more to Barcelonathan La Rambla and Champions League winning footballteams. Whether it’s the usual tourist fare you want, ortaking the path less trodden, there are many faces toBarcelona, which may explain why so many people fromBirmingham are heading there each week. Perhaps thesunny climate and wonderful beaches have something todo with it too! For more information see www.birminghamairport.co.ukand www.airportgurus.co.uk

The Barcelona ATTRACTION


airtravel

Demand for Barcelona has neverbeen greater at Birmingham Airport,

following the recent launch of two newservices this summer with Vueling and

Norwegian. With two other carriersalready serving the Catalan capital,Birmingham Airport’s businessdevelopment manager - tour operations,corporate and travel trade, MANDYHAQUE, looks at why people are flockingthere in their thousands…Park Guell in Barcelona, Spain

Shut

ters

tock

- c

opyr

ight

is L

ucia

no M

ortu

la

S05 TB2606 2015 Air Travel_Layout 1 24/06/2015 11:58


The government’s decision to abolishUK Air Passenger Duty (APD) forchildren under 12 has helped delivera boom in family holidays, accordingto online travel agency CheapOair.

The company's research revealsthat there has been a 24% increasein family bookings including childrenunder 12 to long-haul destinations inMay this year compared to the samemonth last year.

Popular destinations for familieslooking to take advantage of thelower air fares delivered as a resultof the tax being removed includeDubai, Los Angeles, Toronto, Miami

and Melbourne. APD adds up to £71 per person to

a flight price for trips to Australiaand therefore the cost savings forfamilies are significant. A family withtwo children under 12 years old atthe date of travel can even save £26on travel to European destinations.

As of May 1, APD for childrenunder 12 years old has beenscrapped, and the tax will beremoved from air fares for childrenunder 16 years at the time of travelfrom March 2016.

The company's managing director,Peter Grover, said: “Ever since APD

was taken off the flight prices forchildren under 12 we’ve seen familybookings increase by a quarter. Themessage to the Chancellor is thattaxing holidays doesn’t work. Morepeople spending money in the UKeconomy when booking their travel isbetter for the business of Britain.Holidays should be about fun andspending quality time together,without tax reform being a seriousconsideration when booking thefamily summer getaway.”For more information visitwww.cheapoair.co.uk or call 0203-318 5326.

LIVERPOOL JOHN Lennon Airport hasinstalled Merseyside’s first RapidCharging Point for electric vehicles inpartnership with green energy companyEcotricity. The facility is part ofEcotricity’s Electric Highway whichforms part of the UK’s national networkof electric charging stations.

Powered with 100% renewableenergy from sun and wind power, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles cars such asthe Mitsubishi Outlander hybrid orNissan’s fully electric LEAF, can

recharge in 20 to 30 minutes - about thetime it takes to have a cup of coffee.

The new charging point is free to useand is located in one of the airport carparks, close to the terminal building.Whilst use of the service is primarilyaimed at passengers using the airport,it is available for anybody to use, withaccess to its location free of parkingcharges too.

Andrew Dutton, the airport's head ofenvironment, said: “We are proud toplay a small part in the electric car

revolution. The journey to the airportcan be one of the major contributors toCO2 emissions associated with ourbusiness. By installing this chargingpoint we are now giving thosecustomers with electric or hybrid carsthe opportunity to use these vehicles ona potential lengthy journey to theairport, relaxed in the knowledge thatwe have a charging point for them touse for their return journey home. Justas important though, this will also helpto reduce CO2 emissions.”

LJLA becomes home to Merseyside’s first rapid electric vehicle charging point

airtravel

Scottish Pipe Major Bill Loughridge (middle) with Etihad Airways'cabin crew Katherine Fuller (left) and Victoria Littler (right) markthe carrier's new daily service between Abu Dhabi and Edinburgh.The new route is operated with a two-class Airbus A330-200aircraft, offering a total of 22 seats in Business Class and 240seats in Economy Class.

APD axe fuels boost in family holidays abroad according to CheapOair research

SOUTH AFRICAN Airways, in association with MalawiDepartment of Tourism, is offering discounted faresfrom London to Malawi from £604 return, saving up to£149 on the typical fare.

The year-round, competitive fares include £604 returnflight to Malawi’s Lilongwe International Airport (LLW),saving up to £149 and a £624 return flight to Malawi’sChileka International Airport (BLZ), saving up to £129.

Travellers can purchase the discounted fares fortravel between now and July 13, from August 19 toDecember 12 and from December 25 to March 31, 2016.

Serving Malawi’s capital city of Lilongwe, LilongweInternational Airport is an ideal starting point forexploring central Malawi’s Dzalanyama Forest Reserve,known for its unique bird populations, and Senga Bay,the closest point on Lake Malawi where hotels andlodges overlook beaches and a small forest reserve.Chileka International Airport, serving Malawi’s second-largest city of Blantyre, offers travellers access toMount Mulanje, central Africa’s highest mountainnicknamed ‘the island in the sky’, and the region’snational parks and wildlife reserves.

The national carrier offers double daily flights toJohannesburg from Heathrow’s Terminal 2, and on toLilongwe International Airport five times weekly. For more information visit www.flysaa.com or call 0844-375 9680.

South African Airways announces newvalue fares from London to Malawi


airtravel

InBrief● OMAN AIR and Garuda Indonesia have entered a new codeshare

agreement that will offer greater choice and convenience forcustomers of both airlines. The agreement will enable Oman Air’scustomers to book flights, operated by Garuda Indonesia, betweenJakarta and Bali, Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok. In turn, GarudaIndonesia’s customers will be able to book flights, operated by OmanAir, between Muscat and Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok, Jakarta or Salalah.

● A NEW air service linking Edinburgh with the Faroe Islands hasbeen extended to run into winter, Atlantic Airways has announced.The service was initially launched as a summer season servicerunning to the end of October. Now the twice-weekly flights willcontinue until December 18, with an additional service on January4, 2016, before the full service resumes on March 18, 2016.

● FINNAIR HAS selected Viator as its preferred partner fordestination experiences. Through the new partnership, the airlineprovides customers with direct access to Viator’s selection of tours,activities, attractions, shore excursions and events in the cities theyserve across Asia, Europe and North America.

● WIZZ AIR has launched a new website optimised for mobile deviceweb browsers to complement the company’s existing desk-topwebsite and Apple and Android apps.

Birmingham gears up for a busy summer

BIRMINGHAM AIRPORT is gearing up for another busysummer, as direct flights to China and a third dailyservice to Dubai are set to launch in the coming weeks.

Hainan Airlines will begin a twice-weekly service toBeijing from July 3, operating each Friday and Monday,up until the end of August.

The airport announced the series of 34 charter flightsbetween Birmingham and Beijing back in March thisyear, at an event held in Shanghai to promote Britishbusinesses in China.

The airport’s network of long-haul flights willcontinue to grow throughout the summer, as Emirateslaunches its third daily service to Dubai from August 1.The additional service adds seven more inbound flightsa week to Dubai for Birmingham, increasing passengerand cargo capacity on the route by 50%.

William Pearson, the airport’s aviation developmentdirector, said: “These are exciting times for BirminghamAirport. Launching non-stop flights to Beijing withHainan Airlines and a third daily service to Dubai withEmirates in just a matter of weeks represents greatprogress and a strong appetite for more routes andmore frequencies from Birmingham.”For details visit www.birminghamairport.co.uk


Grosvenor House Apartments by Jumeirah Living haslaunched a ‘Stay Seven, Pay Five for Summer’experience, offering visitors seven nights for the price offive. The offer runs until August 31 and includesbreakfast, Wi-Fi and one strawberry afternoon tea for twoper stay. See www.jumeirah.com

Hotel Updates�

Z Hotels’ fourth London property, in Shoreditch, has opened its doorsoffering guests urban luxury in the heart of the city’s East End with roomrates from £59 per night. Arranged over four floors, each of the roomsfeature 48” LED HD TVs with a full selection of Sky Sports and Sky Moviesavailable at no extra cost, power showers, bespoke hand-crafted beds, luxurybed linen and free Wi-Fi. The hotel also offers guests complimentary cheese andwine in the Z Café, located at the entrance, between 17:00-20:00 every night.

Guests can follow in royal footsteps with British HeritageWalking Tours at Dukes St James London this summer.The five-star boutique hotel is running two-hour guidedstrolls with a Blue Badge guide taking in sights such asSt James’s Park, Pall Mall and Jermyn Street, followedby drinks back at the hotel. The British Heritage Packagecosts £499 inclusive of VAT for one room, up to twoguests, inclusive of breakfast in a superior roomcategory, and is valid until March 31, 2016. For details call 020-7491 4840 or visitwww.dukeshotel.com

The four-star Dorsett Shepherds Bush has launched a‘Family Time’ deal which includes accommodation in twoadjacent (some interconnecting) guest rooms, with thesecond room at half price. The package is bookable forstays between July 17 and September 6, with roomsavailable from £150 per night. See www.dorsetthotels.com or call 020-3262 1026.


newsbulletin

Belgravia’s The Goring Hotel has teamed up with the mostBritish of Champagne houses – Bollinger to create twoprivate areas in The Goring’s garden, available to pre-bookon an entirely exclusive basis with the purchase of amagnum of Bollinger Rosé (£178) or a magnum of BollingerSpecial Cuvée (£162.) See www.thegoring.com

S06 TB2606 2015 London Life_Layout 1 24/06/2015 12:46


newsbulletin

�THEATRE NEWS TheatreBreaks.com isoffering a series of ticketand hotel packages forsix West End musicalsthat, between them,feature more than 200songs from the Swinging60s including JerseyBoys, Let It Be, SunnyAfternoon, Beautiful andThe Commitments. Thecompany has alsoannounced that shortbreaks are also now onsale for the Broadwaysmash hit musicalMotown – the musicalwhich opens in February2016. Theatre and hotelpackages start at lessthan £100 per personincluding top price ticketand accommodationbased on two sharing atwin or double room.Details atwww.theatrebreaks.com

Matt Cardle, who rose tofame winning the seventhseries of ITV’s The XFactor, will join the castof MEMPHIS THEMUSICAL from July 6,taking over from KillianDonnelly who originatedthe role in the West End.Matt will join Queen ofBritish Soul, BeverleyKnight who extends herrun as club singer‘Felicia Farrell’ in theshow, which runs untilOctober 31 at theShaftesbury Theatre.Ticket prices are between£20-£67.50. For detailscall 020-7379 5399 or seewww.memphisthemusical.com

Attraction News�

Buckingham Palace & The Royal Mews and Buckingham Palace & HM Tower of Londonare two new packages available with Attraction World, leading in at £30 and £42respectively, with reduced child rates. Both offers are available to book for visits betweenJuly 27 and September 27. See www.attractionworld.co.uk

�

The Sloane Bros Frozen Yoghurt Co. opened its doors onBrick Lane in Shoreditch last week, serving a variety British-sourced fat-free frozen yoghurt, topped with sauces, freshfruits, confectionary and crumbled classic biscuits. Pricesstart from £2.95, with toppings costing from 65p.

A Bite to EatRosewood London hasdeveloped a new summercocktails menu inspiredby seasonal Britishsummer flavours, withprices from £11. Seewww.holborndiningroom.com/menu/cocktails

Japanese/Peruvian fusion restaurant UNI has launched anew Robata Menu, bringing the vibrant flavours andtextures of Nikkei cuisine to the heart of Belgravia. Themenu combines Peruvian flavours with Japanese cookingtechniques to create seven fresh and light dishes. See www.restaurantuni.com

�ON THE RIVER City Cruises is celebrating the life of Elvis Presley on an indulgent dinner cruise. Departingfrom North Greenwich Pier, the cruise is an ideal addition to visits to Britain’s largest Elvisexhibition, now on at Greenwich’s O2. After attending the exhibition, Elvis enthusiasts canenjoy a short stroll down by the riverside to the pier, where they hop on board tocommemorate the memories of the renowned pop icon, which includes the performance ofan Elvis tribute act. Also included is a glass of sparkling wine and a three-course meal.Standard tickets cost £49 per person and the cruise departs on July 9 and 23 and August 27.Meanwhile, R.S. Hispaniola has introduced a homemade afternoon tea menu from £26.50 perperson. For details see http://hispaniola.co.uk and www.citycruises.com


Now celebrating ten extraordinary years, Billy Elliot the Musical has won the hearts of millions since it opened in London’s West End, becoming one of the most beloved, award-winning shows on stage today.

Set in a northern mining town, against the background of the 1984/’85 miners’ strike, Billy Elliot is the inspirational story of a young boy’s struggle against the odds to make his dreams come true. Follow Billy’s journey as he stumbles out of the boxing ring and into a ballet class where he discovers a passion for dance that inspires his family and whole community and changes his life forever.

Featuring a timeless score by Elton John, sensational dance and a powerful story, Billy Elliot the Musical is a funny, uplifting and spectacular theatrical experience that will stay with you forever.

‘A MARVELLOUS BRITISH MUSICAL’TIME OUT

See this inspirational story in the heart of London’s West End. To book, speak to your preferred ticket agent, go online or call +44 (0) 844 248 5000

Now celebrating ten extraordinary years, Billy Elliot the Musical has won SEE THE ORIGINAL IN LONDON

BillyElliotTheMusical.com | Victoria Palace Theatre Victoria Street, London SW1E 5EA

‘STILL THEBEST MUSICAL

IN LONDON’DAILY MAIL, 2015


PARK POSTOJNA

CAVE

Postojna Cave, Slovenia’sUnderground ParadiseA fantastic web of tunnels, passages, galleries and halls, the astonishing diversity of Karst features as well as easy access are certainly the main reasons for immense popularity of Postojna Cave, which has in 200 years been admired by 36 million visitors from all over the world.

Nowhere else but in Postojna Cave can you enjoy a ride with a special cave train, which will take you around the cave under spectacular underground arches, which are embellished with chandelier-resembling stalactites, through a beautiful subterranean world full of playful limestone sculptures.

www.postojnska-jama.eu

S07 TB2606 2015 Slovenia_Layout 1 24/06/2015 12:56


slovenia

Classic Collection Holidays is offering discounts on stays at Kempinski PalacePortoroz between August 23 and Januray 17, 2016 for bookings made at least

30 days’ prior to departure. The Sussex based operator is also offeringdiscounts on stays of between two and five nights

or more on various dates throughout the year. For details or to book call 0800-008 7288 or visit www.classic-collection.co.uk

KEMPINSKI OFFERS FROMCLASSIC COLLECTION

BALKAN HOLIDAYS is offering spa andbeauty breaks in Portoroz for 2016, theresort on Slovenia’s Adriatic Coast.

Holidaymakers can opt for a stay atthe five-star Grand Hotel Bernardin, amodern hotel offering rooms with seaviews, while traditionalists may opt forthe five-star Kempinski PalacePortoroz. As well as featuring agourmet restaurant, the hotel’s RoseSpa has indoor and outdoor pools,Finnish and Turkish saunas, an infraredsauna and a comprehensive selectionof spa treatments.

The operator is also offering twin-centre holidays, which combine a beach

holiday in Portoroz with a visit tomountain resort Lake Bled.

The company’s sales and marketingmanager, Chris Rand, said: “Slovenia isa country that can deliver in so manyways. Portoroz is a charming resortwith high quality hotels and a host ofhealth and leisure activities, not tomention a beautiful sandy beach andmarina. There is also the opportunity toenjoy walks in the mountains aroundLake Bled and appreciate the naturaldiversity of the region.”

The operator is featuring flights withscheduled carriers from Gatwick,Luton, Manchester and Stansted to

Ljubljana between May and Octobernext year.

A seven-night break at the five-starKempinski Palace Portoroz costs from£835 per person based on two sharinga twin room on a bed-and-breakfastbasis.

Alternatively, a seven-night stay atLake Bled staying at the Hotel Parkcosts from £603, based on two sharinga twin room on a half-board basis.Prices include flights from Gatwick andtransfers.For further information seewww.balkanholidays.co.uk/agents orcall 020-7543 5555.

Give your clients an indulgent break with Balkan Holidays’ beauty & spa options

Portoroz


SLOVENIA

FLY FROMYOUR

LOCAL AIRPORT

PRIVATETRANSFERS INCLUDED

Call 0800 008 7288 www.classic-collection.co.uk

Affordable luxury

5030

5 Kempinski Palace PortorozREDUCED RATES7 nights B&B from £937ppDeparts Gatwick 9 Sep

*Book at least 30 days prior to travel.For stays 23 Aug-17 Jan

per couple per week

SAVE£233*

slovenia

a new division from Imaginative Traveller and Dragoman, isoffering a seven-night ‘Slovenia Revealed’ adventure from £1,275per person based on two people sharing, excluding flights.Highlights include visits to Maribor, Lakes Bled and Bohinj, atraditional farmstay and local wine tasting at Skojan. For detailssee www.imaginative-adventures.com


IMAGINATIVE ADVENTURES

HotelIREZ Hotels & Resorts is highlighting a selection ofindependent and unique hotels in Slovenia.As an example, Vila Bled Hotel - a former Presidentialresidence of General Tito – offers views over Lake Bled withprices leading in at £85 including breakfast, based on twosharing. All properties also feature free Wi-Fi. For further information visitwww.hotelrez.co.uk/special/slovenia or call at 020-3598 2243.

HotelREZ highlights unique properties

NEW FOR summer 2016,Inghams Lakes and Mountainsis featuring a two-centreholiday, ‘Jewel of the South’ toSlovenia and Austria.

Guests are offered theopportunity to spend a week inSlovenia’s Julian Alps, walkingthe trails around Kranjska Goraor by Lake Bled, before movingto the Alpine spa resort of BadKleinkirchheim in Austria.

The 14-night, half-boardbreak costs from £1,139 inMay, staying seven nights atthe four-star Hotel Trattlerhoffin Bad Kleinkirchheim andseven nights at the four-star

Hotel Kompas Kranjska Gora.The price includes flights fromGatwick and transfers.

Meanwhile, wine enthusiastswill appreciate the operator’snew three- and four-daySlovenian Wine Tours from£699, which explore theGoriska Wine Region.

The tours can be added onto a holiday on Lake Bled andincludes four-star, half-boardaccommodation, guidedsightseeing walks, a farmer’spicnic lunch and two winetastings.For further information seewww.inghams.couk

‘Jewel of the South’ offer from Inghams

ANATOLIAN SKY Holidays is currently offering a choice of twinand multi-centre itineraries in Slovenia, including options tocombine Lake Bled or Lake Bohinj with Ljubljana, or to spendtime in the capital and on the coast in the resort of Piran.

Alternatively, three-centre itineraries of ten nights areavailable combining Ljubljana and Lake Bled with Croatia’sIstria region.

Prices start from £725 per person for a seven-night tripincluding three nights in Ljubljana and four nights at LakeBohinj, based on two adults sharing. The offer includesbreakfast accommodation, flights from London and transfers,and is based on travel in late September. For more information visit www.anatoliansky.co.uk or call 0844-273 3585.

Choice of multi-centre itineraries fromAnatolian Sky Holidays

POSTOJNA, A town in the traditional region of Inner Carniola -35km from Trieste in southwestern Slovenia, is promotingPostojna Cave. The attraction features 21km of galleries, tunnelsand magnificent halls and has become a popular and well knowntourist attraction over the years. Postojna Cave also offersvisitors an underground train ride, which is one of the highlightsof the attraction. A tour of the cave takes around 90 minutes andis available in 15 languages. For details see www.postojnska-jama.eu or call +386 5/7000 143.



Marking the next stage ofEcuador’s significantinvestment in tourism, The

Ministry of Tourism of Ecuadorofficially launched its ‘All you need isEcuador’ campaign last week,highlighting not just what Ecuador hasto offer but its strong ties to the trade.

Sandra Naranjo, the newlyappointed minister of tourism, said:“We saw the promotion from twoangles; first to the consumer so wecan bring their attention to this newproduct of Ecuador and to get theminspired but we also incorporated thecampaign for the trade. We work a lotwith the industry in the differentmarkets and it’s important that theproduct is available for when theyneed it.”

A key aspect to this strategy is theavailability of information, whichagents can access directly through adedicated web page, designed

specifically for the trade athttp://trade.allyouneedisecuador.travel/en/. The site focuses on how to sellthe destination, as well as highlightingnew products and details on webinars,which are held on a monthly basis.

Tourism currently stands as thethird source of non-oil related incomefor the country, with the goal for it tobe the first source of income by 2018.Commenting on the numbers of UKvisitors to Ecuador, the minister said:“This market has grown 16% since lastyear; we have products that are verycompatible with what the marketwants. A product that has beengathering a lot of attention, and isparticularly loved by British tourists, isthe Cruise Train.”

With an investment of $260million,the recovery of the trainline thatconnects the coast with the Andesmeans tourists can experience thedifferent landscapes, culture, cuisine

and micro climates that Ecuador hasto offer over a four-day journey.Naranjo said: “We call Ecuador thecountry of the four worlds; we havethe Amazon, the Andes, the coast andthe Galapagos Islands. It’s the perfectplace to have four completely differentexperiences.”

The 'All you need is Ecuador'campaign marks an ambitiousevolution in the promotion of Ecuador,with a focus on what people canexperience. Naranjo said: “Thecampaign is not looking to sell whatEcuador ‘has’ but what Ecuador can‘offer’. It highlights the opportunityvisitors have to encounter differentexperiences with nature and to seethings perhaps from a different angle.Promoting this aspect ensures thatvisitors will create unique andmemorable experiences and will lookto share these with their friends andfamily – a win-win situation.”

latinamerica

Air Europa ‘Prime’ FaresIntroducing our new reduced Business Class fares

Caribbeanfrom

£1658Madrid from

£264USAfrom

£1546Latin Americafrom

£1549

All long haul routes are via Madrid. Terms and Conditions apply.

For more information Call: 0871 423 0717, or visit us at:

www.aireuropa.com or email: [email protected]

Travel Bulletin’s ADAM POTTER

catches up with the minister of tourism

for Ecuador, Sandra Naranjo, to find out

what the latest campaign entails

New Ecuador campaign reflects

close ties with the trade

S08 TB2606 2015 Latin America_Layout 1 24/06/2015 12:57

THE LUXURY Tourism market in Brazil is set to rise by 25%over the next few years due to the success of the 2014 FIFAWorld Cup according to the ABTA Travel Trends report.

The findings revealed that affluent travellers are set to growthe luxury travel market this year, taking an average of 4.7holidays per person in 2014, up from 3.6 holidays in theprevious year.

As Rio is thrust into the spotlight once again for the 2016Olympic and Paralympic Games next year, the undiscoveredand secluded regions of the country will benefit fromincreased interest as a result, offering tourists some of thebest luxury travel experiences in South America.

Embratur is highlighting three experiences in thedestination for clients seeking luxury trips. The first is Bahia –Trancoso, a fishing village which has rapidly become one ofthe most chic holiday destinations in Brazil. Trancoso’s iconiccolonial architecture and traditional Bahian cuisine, alongwith a variety of luxury resorts, attracts celebrities andsuperstars from across the world.

Santa Catarina in Florianópolis is also being highlighted.‘Floripa’ as it is known locally, has 42 beaches which are amajor attraction for daring surfers. Often referred to as theIbiza of Brazil, the natural beauty of the island and bays makeit a magnet for holidaymakers during the summer. Most of thepopulation live on the island's central and northern partswhich are packed with fishing boats, lacemakers, cuisine andcolonial architecture. For tourists seeking to discover morethan just the capital, an alternative option is the Ponta dosGanchos resort in nearby Governador Celso Ramos. Theresort is well suited to romantic getaways and is a popularhoneymoon destination.

Meanwhile, São Paulo offers a range of luxury experiences- from art galleries to a huge choice of nightlife. Alternatively,around 80km away from São Paulo, the city of Piedade isbeing highlighted as ideal for clients who are searching forluxury combined with sustainability. As an example, the hotelRonco do Bugio aims to provide high quality accommodationtogether with environmental responsibility. Based in themiddle of the Atlantic Forest, Ronco do Bugio combines thecharming design of custom rooms, a restaurant featuringhaute cuisine and many sustainable activities. For more information see www.visitbrasil.com

STAYING IN clean and comfortable three-star hotels andusing public transport, Tucan Travel has added 14 newgroup tours to its range of Adventure Tours in SouthAmerica.

Starting in Quito and finishing in Buenos Aires 48 dayslater, the group tours, or sections of them, cover all of themain highlights the regions have to offer with flightsbetween many destinations to allow travellers to make themost of each day of their tour.

As examples, a 48-day South America Encompassed,from Quito to Buenos Aires, visits the major cities, sightsand national parks of South America. Starting on theequator, the itinerary takes guests through steamy jungle,along coastlines and zig-zagging through jagged mountainranges.

Alternatively, an 11-day Ecuador to Peru option starts inthe heights of Quito, on the equator and visits southernEcuador and the lesser travelled northern Peru. Frombustling markets in Otavalo to some of the best seafood inMancora, the tour gives guests the opportunity to learnabout the culture of the two countries.

Prices lead in at £699 excluding flights and agent ratesare also available.For further information see www.tucantravel.com

ABTA Travel Trend Report predicts boostin luxury tourism demand in Brazil


latinamerica

GRAND HYATT Playa del Carmen, located in Mexico’s RivieraMaya, has now opened. Set on Mamitas Beach, the resort offers314 guestrooms and suites, a spa, three bars/lounges and twosignature restaurants. Kids clubs for children aged five to 12 arealso offered, along with a variety of day excursions - from zip-lining to trips to ancient ruins and boat trips to Cozumel. Theresort’s opening rates start from $199 per night for a doubleroom, excluding tax. For details see www.grandhyattplaya.com

Tucan Travel launches new adventuretours through South America

COLOMBIA’S NATIONAL airline, Avianca, has announced that it willincrease the frequency of its Heathrow to Bogota flight from nextmonth. Passengers wishing to fly from Heathrow to Colombia’s ElDorado International Airport will now have a choice of sevendepartures a week up from four. The additional flight capacitycomes in the wake of a ‘huge surge in UK visitor numbers’ to theSouth American country which welcomed 32,212 Brits in 2014, upby 28.5% on 2013. For more information on Colombia visit www.colombia.travel

S08 TB2606 2015 Latin America_Layout 1 24/06/2015 12:57

Q: What destinations would you say are popular for Britslooking to book shopping trips?Paris, Barcelona and Milan. A trip to one of the Collection ofVillages is ideal as guests are guaranteed the same level ofservice and luxury that they receive in the UK at BicesterVillage. However, each destination is unique with architectureinspired by the region in which it is located, niche nationalluxury brands and restaurants serving local specialities, soguests still get an authentic experience of the country.

Q: What are the main advantages of shopping tourism – andwhat advice would you highlight to agents selling shoppingholidays? We’d advise agents to be creative and think about where theycan incorporate shopping into a wider itinerary, as a half- or afull-day activity. For example, if a customer was booking a tripto Disneyland Paris, a day’s shopping at La Vallée Village couldbe easily incorporated as it’s just ten minutes away. Likewise, iftheir clients are visiting Expo Milano 2015, Fidenza Village is agreat complementary destination as it’s close to Milan andoffers a full programme of events inspired by Italian art,fashion, food and music for the duration of Expo.

Q: What should visitors be aware of when looking at thedestination they are thinking of visiting?Shopping tourists could check ahead to make sure theirchosen shopping destination is open at the time they arehoping to visit – if they have a busy itinerary with just a shortamount of time to shop over the weekend, for example, theymay find that stores in some locations do not trade onSundays. At the Villages, guests can shop into the evening and,in select Villages, on Sundays too, making them ideal fortourists. It’s always a good idea to check the Villages’ openingtimes, travel updates and the latest boutique lists ahead of anyvisit by visiting www.ChicOutletShopping.com

Q: Would you say that the popularity of dedicated shoppingtrips has increased in recent years – and what do you thinkare the reasons behind this? Absolutely. Whereas shopping was just complementary to

tourism before, it has increasingly become a deciding factor inwhere people choose to travel – something that has beenrecognised by the UNWTO in the ‘Global Report on ShoppingTourism’. The nature of shopping itself has changed too.Shopping has become either functional (due to the internet) orexperiential. The physical experience is becoming anincreasingly important aspect of shopping, which directly linksto the premise of tourism – to search out unique andmemorable experiences. The Villages are destinations in theirown right and offer a memorable day out.

Q: What new and exciting developments are currently takingplace at the Collection of Villages? There is always something new to discover at the Villages. Inaddition to luxury brands, the Villages are also platforms forart, culture and gastronomy, and each one offers a continuallyevolving programme of exhibitions and events. The mix ofbrands in the Villages is constantly updated with special pop-up boutiques introduced throughout the year. Kildare Villagenear Dublin is scheduled to open an extension in Novemberwith 36 additional boutiques, and we are also expanding intoChina. Suzhou Village, the first Village in China, opened inhistoric Suzhou in May 2014, while the second Village,Shanghai Village, will open in spring 2016.


Selling a city break to any of the nine cities where the Villages are located?Remember to keep the Chic Outlet Shopping Villages front of

mind as a half or full day activity.

Did you know the Shopping Express luxury coach service round journey andShopping Experience packages are available to book with

DoSomethingDifferent.com and SuperBreak?

If any customers are heading to Disneyland during their stay in Paris,remember to add on the products and remember La Vallée Village is located

within ten minutes of Disneyland Paris.

Are any of your customers visiting Expo in Milan this year? Then check outFidenza Village which has put together a showcase of Italian themed fun over the

six-month period including art, fashion, food and music.

AROUND THE world, shoppingis becoming an increasinglypopular pastime on travel

itineraries for both business andleisure. One company thatrecognised the potential of shoppingtourism early on was Value Retail,the creator and operator of the

Collection of Villages – the luxuryoutlet shopping destinations acrossEurope and China, which includesBicester Village near London. TheVillages are each located close tokey tourism cities, making themideal additions to travel itineraries.Value Retail works with tourism

partners around the world to sellspecial shopping packages to visitthe Villages. Here, the deputydirector of Village Tourism,THIBAULT RUFFAT, answers ourquestions on the rise of shoppingtourism services and how agentscan capitalise on demand….

shoppingholidays

Want to capitalise onemerging shopping tourism trends? Here’s how…

SUMMER TOP TIPS

S09 TB2606 2015 Shopping hols_Layout 1 24/06/2015 11:39

BICESTER VILLAGE, LONDON KILDARE VILLAGE, DUBLIN LA VALLÉE VILLAGE, PARIS WERTHEIM VILLAGE, FRANKFURT

I MAASMECHELEN VILLAGE, BRUSSELS FIDENZA VILLAGE, MILAN LA ROCA VILLAGE, BARCELONA

L C SUZHOU VILLAGE, SUZHOU SHANGHAI VILLAGE, SHANGHAI

T

06/15

1 0

Neilson will be showcasing its ‘Have a Go Before You Go’windsurfing and skiing simulators to members of the public inshopping centres across the UK this summer. The simulatorroadshow will kick off at Westfield Stratford this weekend(June 27-28), giving thousands of shoppers the chance tosample windsurfing and skiing for themselves without leavingLondon. The 360° virtual reality headsets use real video footage from

a Neilson Beachclub and a Neilson Ski holiday which, combinedwith rumble pads and wind machines, bring the experience ofwindsurfing and skiing to life for up to 90 seconds. It will be thefirst opportunity for shoppers to sample the new immersiveexperience. Following their London appearance, the simulators will be

taken to the Bullring shopping centre in Birmingham and toPortsmouth to celebrate the America’s Cup.

Meanwhile, Westfield London is launching a new festiveexperience brought to life by DreamWorks Animation thisNovember.Adventure to Santa’s Grotto, A DreamWorks DreamPlace will

take families on an immersive, cinematic adventure set in a2,000sq.ft cottage that combines the latest technology ofmotion-based effects with magical storytelling.The concept will take visitors through interactive and

personalised activities with iconic film characters Shrek andDonkey on their adventure to Santa. Myf Ryan, director for the shopping centre, said: “We’re

always looking at ways to innovate and provide newexperiences for our customers. Partnering with DreamWorksAnimation, the global family entertainment brand known foraward-winning storytelling and industry leading innovation, willdeliver the ultimate Grotto experience to Westfield visitors.”

FUNWAY HOLIDAYS is promotingshopping breaks to the US tohighlight the epicentre of upscalefashion outlet, Simon ShoppingDestinations and its new openingslater this year.Gloucester Premium Outlets

serving the greater Philadelphia areawill be ready for shoppers in August,whilst Tucson Premium Outlets andTampa Premium Outlets will open inOctober.All customers booking through the

operator will receive a complimentarybooklet of savings redeemable atshopping destinations across the US,

offering savings of up to 65% offdesigner brands.The tour operator is also offering a

‘Shop Til’ You Drop in New York’package including a three-night stayat the four-star Holiday Inn Midtown57th St including flights with UnitedAirlines from Heathrow and ashopping tour to ‘Woodbury CommonPremium Outlet’, which offers morethan 220 designer and retail shopsand eateries. Prices lead in at £525per person, for two adults sharing,based on travel in Feburary next year.For more information visitwww.funway4agents.co.uk

Funway Holidays offers ‘Shop Til’ You Drop’ New York package from £525

Neilson brings the holiday feeling to London with new simulators for shoppers


shoppingholidays

...has opened a 25-store expansion of its Las Vegas North Premium Outlets, making it oneof the largest centres in the country with 175 stores, including designer and name brands.

The outlet offers savings of between 25 and 65% every day. For details see www.simon.com

SIMON PROPERTY GROUP


CHI CO UTLE TSH O PPIN G.CO M

EUROPE BICESTER VILLAGE, LONDON KILDARE VILLAGE, DUBLIN LA VALLÉE VILLAGE, PARIS WERTHEIM VILLAGE, FRANKFURT

INGOLSTADT VILLAGE, MUNICH MAASMECHELEN VILLAGE, BRUSSELS FIDENZA VILLAGE, MILAN LA ROCA VILLAGE, BARCELONA

LAS ROZAS VILLAGE, MADRID CHINA SUZHOU VILLAGE, SUZHOU SHANGHAI VILLAGE, SHANGHAI

THE COLLECTION OF VILLAGES IN EUROPE AND CHINA

(OPENING SPRING 2016)

© Value Retail PLC 2015 06/15

Discover the Collection of Villages in Europe and China, home to 1,000 boutiques of the world’s most exclusive brands, offering exceptional savings all year round.

AGENT PROVOCATEUR · BIMBA & LOLA · BROOKS BROTHERS · DIANE VON FURSTENBERG PAULE KA · MISSONI · SAINT LAURENT PARIS · TOUS AND MANY MORE

To plan your visit or to �nd out more about the Shopping Express® luxury coach services to the Villages, visit: ChicOutletShopping.com/chictravel

THE PERFECT TREAT

17:30


Citadel Outlets promotes hassle free shopping in LAPARTNERING WITH Extreme Tours, Citadel Outlets is offering ‘Shop UntilYou Drop Off..at LAX’ packages that provide transport for travellers lookingto take advantage of the often lost hours between hotel check out and adeparture flight at LAX. Shoppers are picked by Karmel Shuttle from Los Angeles and Anaheim

hotels to travel to the centre. Complimentary luggage check-in and VIPlounge access is provided while guests can enjoy a day of shopping andsavings. Shoppers then board a shuttle for transport to LAX to catchdeparting flights. The packages also include a VIP Savings Card, shoppingbag and private luggage re-packing room.Cynthia Schmitt, director of international sales and marketing for the

group, said: "All our services are hand-selected and designed to pamperour wonderful shoppers. We understand that shopping is the number oneactivity for international visitors and we work very hard to make sure that aday at our centre is a special and memorable experience." The package price is around $100.

For more information visit www.karmel.com/citadel-shopping-tour

Fidenza Village offers immersive Italian experience

New shopping outlet for MinnesotaTHE TWIN Cities Premium Outlets in Eagan, located minutes fromMinneapolis Saint Paul International Airport, has opened offering morethan 100 stores with discounts of up to 65% off the original price. The Eagan location will have a number of outlet stores exclusive to

Minnesota including American Eagle, Crabtree & Evelyn, HelzbergDiamonds, Watch Station and White House/Black Market. Other popularstores include Saks Fifth Avenue Off Fifth, Calvin Klein, Coach, MichaelKors, Polo Ralph Lauren, Gap, Hot Topic, J. Crew and True Religion. For details see www.premiumoutlets.com/twincities

We asked our staff thefollowing question this week:

What do you try to do every day?

shoppingholidays

Crossword:Across: 1. IBERIA, 4. HARP, 7. GOSPORT, 9. CORFU, 10. RENEE, 11. RSA, 12. EVANS, 14. NOOSA, 16. DEAD SEA, 18. NESS, 19. HOBART. Down: 1. IAN MCKELLEN, 2. EIGER, 3. ASP, 5. ANTON, 6. PRIZED APART, 8. SPURS, 10. RANDS, 13. ANDES, 15. OSAKA, 17. DOH.

Highlighted Word: PISA

Travagrams: (top) Kirker Holidays (bottom) Great Barrier Reef

Where Am I?: Kyoto, Japan

puzzlesolutions


Travel Bulletin is published by Alain Charles Publishing (Travel) Ltd - University House, 11-13 Lower Grosvenor Place, London,SW1W 0EX, Tel: 020-7834 6661 Printed by: Buxton PressSubscriptions are £125 p.a. £195 overseasISSN: 0956-2419

Publisher: Jeanette [email protected] (Most of the time unsuccessfully!)

Editor: Lauretta [email protected] myself a mini goal every day (work & personal) tochallenge myself.

Editorial Assistant: Adam [email protected] not hit snooze on my alarm...fail everyday ZzZz

Contributing Editor: Paul [email protected] a stranger laugh.

Sales Director: Simon [email protected] someone laugh.

Advertisement Manager: Tim [email protected] throw cold water on the kids when they will not get out of bed.

Account Manager: Bill [email protected] out of bed!

Account Manager: Matt [email protected] as much out of it as possible.

Sales Executive: Matthew [email protected]?

Sales Executive: Kathryn [email protected]

Marketing Assistant: Gemma [email protected] try to eat healthy food... this fails when Adam gives me chocolate.

Senior Designer: Lee [email protected]

Assistant Designer: Tom [email protected]

Production: Charlie [email protected]

@TravelBulletin

TravelBulletin

TRANSFORMING INTO ‘TheEmbassy of Made in Italy’ for thisyear’s EXPO Milan, Fidenza Villageis continuing its showcase of Italianart, fashion, gastronomy and designby offering a programme ofmultisensory experiences whichwill unfold throughout the summer.The event will be inspired by

three typically Italian themesincluding ‘Romantic Opera’, acelebration of Italian opera such asItalian composer, Giuseppe Verdi,whose work inspired thearchitecture of Fidenza Village,which runs until the end of thismonth; ‘La Dolce Vita’ an ode to the

Italian lifestyle as featured in theclassic film of the same name tothe end of August; and an ‘ItalianPassion’ theme for September andOctober which will showcase iconicItalian design and high-qualitycraftsmanship with a focus onautomotive and tailoring.Shopping packages combine

shopping in the village with culturaland gastronomic experiences in thesurrounding region, and includetickets on the Shopping Expressluxury coach service from centralMilan to the Village. For bookings and details visitwww.fidenzavillage.com


• Increase your knowledge & boost your sales confidence

• Largest travel trade eLearning library

• GDS & skills training available

• Earn supplier certificates

• Up to date information on fantastic travel brands & destinations

• Be entered into draws for prizes & FAM trips upon course completion

Register today to start your learning journey with OTT

OVER 200COURSES

AVAILABLE

FREE!

MORE THAN £100,000OF PRIZES

GIVEN AWAY IN 2014!

www.ott.travel


AFFORDABLE

COSTA BLANCA4 Barcelo AsiaGardens Hotel & Spa7 NIGHTS FOR THE PRICE OF 57 nights from £1,169pp

B&B, departs Gatwick 7 Jul

5030

FLY FROMYOUR

LOCAL AIRPORT

PRIVATETRANSFERS INCLUDED

Call 0800 008 7288 www.classic-collection.co.uk

HALKIDIKI5 Anthemus Sea Beach Hotel & Spa

7 nights from £969pp

Half board

Departs Gatwick 8 Sep

BERMUDAFairmontHamilton PrincessFREE NIGHT OFFER7 nights from £1,679pp

Room only


EGYPTSharm el Sheikh

5 Baron Palms Resort

7 nights from £1,299pp

ALL INCLUSIVE


CYPRUS5 Constantinou Bros Asimina SuitesFREEE BOARD & ROOM UPGRADE7 nights from £1,379pp

HB, departs Gatwick 8 Sep

FUERTEVENTURA5 Gran Hotel Atlantis Bahia Real


B&B,


CRETE5 St Nicolas Bay Resort Hotel & Villas


B&B

departs Gatwick 8 Sep

LUXURYSARDINIA5 Hotel Castello Forte VillageREDUCED RATES7 nights from £1,999pp

Half board, departs Gatwick 7 Sep*Book before 30 Jun

BESTPRICE

BESTPRICE

BESTPRICE

per couple per week

SAVE£854

per couple per week

SAVE£640

BESTPRICE

per couple per week

SAVE£1,299*

SUMMER

per couple per week

SAVE£476

13:48


travel bulletin 26th june 2015

Documents