travel bulletin 9th may 2014

Operators unveiltheir latestprogrammeadditions &deals

Middle East

May 9 2014 | ISSUE NO 1,871 | www.travelbulletin.co.uk

notes from normantonbella, bella...Sandy goes allItalian after attending anindustry event

puzzle bulletinplay Su Doku for a chance towin a £50 Love2Shop voucherfrom Voyages-sncf

star awards focusa closer look at our StarAwards categories - this weekit's Dream Destinations

portugal & madeira

Portugal welcomes increasein UK overnight stays

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DUBAI DRIVE...Dubai Tourism escorted a group of nine agents on a recent fam trip, staying at Fairmont The Palmand Vida Downtown Dubai. The group flew withVirgin Atlantic and Desert Adventures provided transfers, a city tour and a desert safari. The trip also included a visit to Aquaventure and a golf clinic at theMontgomerie Dubai. Pictured making the most of the trip are, from the left: (front row) Jacqueline Beaumont, Beachcomber; Valentina Ceccacci, EK Holidays; BlazeDoods, Thomas Cook Signature; and Zobia Butt, Best at Travel; with (second row) Mark Grundy and Luke William, Gold Medal; Craig Kohler, Lotus; and SangitaMakwana, Dubai Tourism; and (back row) Samantha Holden, Co-operatove Travel and Ferdinando Cutolo, Dubai Tourism.

This Week

3 newspoll reveals half of Britishwomen more likely to holidayalone than they were fiveyears ago

8 notes from normantonbella, bella...Sandy goes allItalian after attending anindustry event

9 agent bulletina round-up of the latestagent training, incentives &offers

10 staff reviewwe check-in at the HolidayInn Gatwick to check out itsStay, Park & Go Club

11 puzzle bulletintry your luck at Su Doku fora chance to win a £50Love2Shop voucher fromVoyages-sncf

12 bulletin briefingthe latest news & viewsfrom Elite Travel Group

14 star awards focusa closer look at our StarAwards categories - thisweek it's the turn of Dream Destinations

15 portugal & madeiraPortugal welcomes increasein UK overnight stays

19 middle eastoperators unveil their latestprogramme additions &deals

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3www.travelbulletin.co.uk May 9 2014

newsbulletin

Half of British women more likely to holiday alone than they were five years ago

RESEARCH FROM Booking.com has revealed that more than half (54%) of British female solotravel enthusiasts are now more likely to holiday alone than they were five years ago.

The poll of more than 1,000 British women highlighted how they find solo travel more ofan empowering experience than a daunting one, with two thirds (61%) saying they feel moreenergised and refreshed after taking a trip by themselves, than opposed to going away withothers. An additional 64% claim they have more freedom to be themselves when travellingalone, with 47% saying it gives them a chance to be a bit more selfish and do exactly whatthey want to do.

According to the research, social media plays a pivotal role when it comes to these women’sconfidence in being able to go on holiday by themselves. Nearly two-thirds (62%) keep in touchwith friends and family back home whilst away, with three quarters also saying that socialmedia allows them to unearth unusual places to go or find places to eat, thus fuelling theirconfidence to visit destinations on their own. And the trend looks set to continue, with morethan half (51%) of female solo travel fans saying they plan to do so again in the next 12 months.

LOCAL RESIDENTS in westLondon and Windsor aremore likely to vote for theirlocal councillor if theysupport a Heathrowexpansion than if they opposeit, according to new researchfrom independent pollingcompany Populus.

The research suggests thatfar from being politicallydifficult, supporting a thirdrunway at Heathrow couldactually be a vote winner forlocal councillors. Nearly half(48%) of residents said theysupported expanding

Heathrow, while 34% wereopposed. Some 57% of voterssaid they feel positive towardsHeathrow, while 37% feelneutral and 6% feel negativetowards the airport.

Only one local authority –Richmond – had moreresidents who opposedexpansion than supported it;all other areas saw manymore people supporting thanopposing a third runway.

Colin Matthews, theairport's chief executive,said:“A third runway atHeathrow has traditionally

been seen as the best optionfor the UK but politicallydifficult in west London. Thisresearch suggests that thepolitical costs of supporting athird runway at Heathrowhave been overstated.

“Far from being a politicalchallenge, there iswidespread local support forHeathrow. Many more peoplearound Heathrow support athird runway than oppose it.More than 100,000 jobsdepend on Heathrow andpeople want to see the airportflourish.”

Quarter of local residents 'more likely' to vote for local councillor if they back Heathrow expansion

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EXPLORE IS offeringdiscounts on select toursdeparting in the next fewweeks.

As examples, Cycle andCruise Croatia explores theDalmatian Coast over eightdays, departing on May 24,and leads in at £997 perperson, offering a saving of£390. Highlights include acruise from Dubrovnik in aclassic ‘Oldtimer’ cruiserto a number of islandsincluding Mljet andKorcula, landing on someto cycle along their quietroads. The price includesflights; seven nights' boataccommodation; mostmeals; transport; a 27-gear Giant Roam hybridbike with lockable frontsuspension; and theservice of a driver, boatcrew, and tourleader/cycle guide. Thetour involves cycling106km over six days (anaverage of 18km per day)and has been graded aseasy level.

For clients seeking alonger break, a 15-dayAsia Minor Explorer tourtravels from the volcanicslopes of Cappadocia tothe ‘frozen waterfall’ atPamukkale. Guests willvisit the cosmopolitan cityof Istanbul, explore theancient site of Troy andwhite marble streets ofGreco-Roman Ephesus,and experience the‘Turquoise Coast’ of Lyciaplus the golden sands ofIztuzu Beach. Departing onMay 17, the holiday leadsin at £1,149 per person(saving £50) and includesflights; 14 nights' hotelaccommodation withbreakfast; transport; andthe service of a driver, tourleader, local guides andboat crew.For further information orto book visitwww.explore.co.uk or call 0844-499 0901.

FRED.\ IS promoting an exclusiveParis/Normandy river cruise whichcommemorates the 70th Anniversary of D-Day and departs on June 5. Agentsbooking the cruise, which is also availableon additional dates, will receive a £20Marks & Spencer voucher.

The company's UK sales manager,Lawrence Peachey, said: “This river cruiseis a great opportunity for agents toharness any bookings for those customerswho wish to mark the historic 70thanniversary of the D-Day Landings on thisexclusive river cruise. This can also becombined with an optional one or two-daystay in Paris."

The exclusive package includes anexcursion to the D-Day beaches of WWIIand a visit to Les Andelys, home of theChateau Gaillard.

Prices for the seven-night cruise lead inat £1,989 per person based on a June 5departure. Other departures are on July 10

from £1,919 and July 31 from £1,889 andprices are based on two sharing a categoryE cabin on AmaLegro. Eurostar rail travelfrom St. Pancras to Paris and localtransfers to/from the ship are alsoincluded. To book or for more details seewww.fredrivercruises.co.uk or call 0808-256 8148.

DREAM CHARTERS isoffering a last-minute,four-night sea cruisecharter from May 15-19 onluxury yacht Carpe Diem Ifor £4,800.

The deal offers guests atailor-made cruise for upto nine, departing fromGocek to sail the Turkishcoast.

The gulet style yachtoffers a high standard ofcomfort and practicalitywith a focus on laid-backluxury. Four cabins sleepup nine guests (childrenare also welcome), and anEnglish speaking Captainand four-man crew are onboard, including a personalchef.

Standard charters areusually seven nightsminimum and includeluxury airport transfers,

watersport facilities andboat fuel. Flights, cateringand speed boat fuel areextra, plus guests areadvised to allowapproximately €50 per

person, per day for foodand drink. For more information [email protected],call 07966-550757 or seewww.dreamcharters.co.uk

Fred.\ highlights Paris & Normandy anniversary cruise

AmaLegro

Last-minute savingsof up to £390 with Explore

www.travelbulletin.co.ukMay 9 20144

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Upgraded drinks package from MSC MSC CRUISES has upgraded the drinks package included in its Aurea onboard experience.From the beginning of this month, all Aurea guests will receive the all-inclusiveAllegrissimo drinks package as standard – giving them unlimited alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks from the bar list, including spirits and cocktails, as well as free ice-cream.Previously, Aurea guests received the Cheers! package, which included drinks during lunchand dinner.

All guests already booked to travel with an Aurea Experience will be automaticallyupgraded to the Allegrissimo package.

Carpe Diem

Last-minute four-night sea cruise charter in Turkey for £4,800

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BALKAN HOLIDAYS has kept the majority of its prices at 2014 levels and has introduceda low deposit of £70 per person, in its Summer 2015 first edition brochure featuringBulgaria, Croatia, Slovenia and Montenegro.

Prices start at £259 per person for a seven-nightbreak at Sunny Beach, Bulgaria, based at the two-star Hotel Arda on a bed-and-breakfast basis inSeptember, including flights and transfers.

The company is offering charter flights departingfrom 19 UK regional airports and more than 60 all-inclusive properties are featured in the newlaunch, as well as its largest choice of flights andaccommodation.

Early booking discounts of up to £673 per coupleare offered along with special offers throughoutthe season saving customers up to £338 percouple.

Other offers include a 5% loyalty bonus forprevious bookers; free child places; child pricesfrom £99; and 10kg luggage allowance for infantson charters.To book or for more information call 0845-1351114 or visit www.balkanholidays.co.uk/agents

READY FOR DEPARTURE...Dougie Hill from Great Rail Journeys presents Samantha Grayson fromDeparture Lounge Travel with her prize of a holiday for two at Tipto's 15th birthday celebrations at theHilton in Lincoln.

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Titan issues 2015Saga CruiseCollection brochureTITAN HAS launched its 2015Saga Cruise Collectionbrochure, offering more than40 individual cruises of which30 are new additions.

All cruises featured in thebrochure depart from the UKand prices include thecompany's VIP HomeDeparture Service, all mealsand entertainment,afternoon tea, 24-hour roomservice, free Wi-Fi (subject toavailability), a welcomecocktail party, all gratuities,porterage and in-resortshuttle bus service to andfrom ship to town centres.

A range of itineraries areavailable - from a 32-nighttransatlantic voyage tocoincide with Canada’sautumn fall to sailingthrough the Ålandarchipelago which bridgesFinland and Sweden. Inaddition, there are four all-inclusive itineraries andsavings of between 15% and35% per person on selecteditineraries.

As examples of prices, a33-day Canada in the Fall onSaga Sapphire costs from£7,059 and departs fromSouthampton on September21, while a 16-day The Gulfof Bothnia itinerary leads inat £2,491, departing Dover onJune 23.For brochures visitwww.titanagents.co.uk or for more information call 0800-988 5807.

Balkan launches 2015 first edition summer brochure to Eastern Europe

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CARRIER HAS released aselection of offers todestinations withguaranteed sunshine, achild-friendly atmosphereand fun-filled activities,such as deep-sea fishing,desert island picnics,watersports and treasurehunts.

As an example, a seven-night full board stay atOne&Only Reethi Rah inthe Maldives leads in at£8,665 per family of twoadults and two children,offering a saving of up to£3,275 per family. Itincludes complimentary

accommodation and fullboard for children under 12years sharing a Beach Villawith their parents,breakfast for parents,flights from Gatwick withEmirates, speedboattransfers andcomplimentary access tothe children’s club forchildren aged four to nine.The offer is valid for travelbetween May 10 and July31.

Alternatively, sevennights for the price of fiveis being offered at FourSeasons Resort Koh Samui,Thailand. Prices lead in at

£6,520 per family, withsavings of up to £1,070 perfamily. The price includesfree accommodation forchildren under 12 yearssharing a one-bedroomvilla with their parents on aroom-only basis, flightsfrom Heathrow withMalaysia Airlines, privatetransfers andcomplimentary access tothe Kids for All Seasonsprogramme. The offer isvalid for travel untilDecember 21. For more information or tobook call 0161-492 1354 orsee www.carrier.co.uk

CANADIAN AFFAIR has launched a new Canadian Big 5 collection, with season-specificpackages offering travellers the opportunity to spot bears, whales, moose, wolves andeagles in their natural habitats.

Example packages include a seven-day Pacific Rim Whales & Bears tour in BritishColumbia, which travels around Vancouver Island capturing glimpses of wild bears andwhales and sailing on an ocean cruiser or Zodiac. Prices for the tour lead in at £1,065 perperson, which includes six nights’ accommodation, transfers, whale- and bear-watchingexcursions and flights. The price is based on travel in May, June and October.

Alternatively, a three-night Grizzly Bears & Wildlife Watching tour at Knight Inlet Lodgein British Columbia visits the natural habitat of Canada’s grizzly bears in the wilderness ofCampbell River, the ‘Salmon Capital of the World’. Travellers will take a floatplane ride tothe remote lodge to spend two days exploring and bear-spotting with local experts. Thetour leads in at £1,675 per person and includes three nights’ accommodation, full boardmeals from the second day, transfers, all excursions and flights, based on travel betweenJune 25 and July 22.For more information and to book call 020-7616 9933 or visit www.canadianaffair.com

Canadian Affair launches Big 5 wildlife collection

Savings of up to £3,275 on summer family holidays with Carrier


newsbulletinCHAMPAGNE SEND-OFF...Pictured marking the launch of Thomas Cook Airlines' new Airbus A321 at BristolAirport are travel agents from across the South West ready to board a Champagne flight. The carrier haslaunched its summer flying programme with the arrival of two Airbus A321 aircraft, including a new aircraftin the carrier's new Sunny Heart livery. With a 20% increase in holidays (www.thomascook.com) and flight-only seats (www.flythomascook.com) on offer, the new aircraft - registration G-TCDC - will take customerson holiday to destinations across Europe.

Tweets of

the WeekWho’s saying what

on Twitter...

@cottages4you

10 unmissableEuropean musicfestivals taking place insummer 2014:http://bit.ly/1iCjArz .pic.twitter.com/3ULjF1wYx7

@HolidayExtras

These stomach-churning rollercoastersare definitely not for thefaint-heartedhttp://buff.ly/1kcv6y3

@APHParking

No.1 Traveller Loungeat Edinburgh Airportwill open on 22nd May.Book with us now! Readmore here:http://bit.ly/R2JCyk

@FredOlsenCruise

Save up to 35% onBristol departures toAdriatic, the Canaries,France & Spain orIceland & Norway.http://bit.ly/1iSsWl6

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

TravelBulletin

Food for thoughtNEW ACADEMIC researchfrom ManchesterMetropolitan Universityinto the effects of meetingfood on delegates found a20% increase in mentalcompetence amongdelegates who ate from ahealthy food menu.The research wascommissioned by HolidayInn to demonstrate theimproved productivity ofthose who select the hotelgroup’s new Food ForThought menu which offersfreshly prepared dishesover traditional meetingsfood.

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Newsbites

www.travelbulletin.co.uk

ICING ON THE CAKE...Robert Broad Travel in Lichfield was the winnerof Your Car Hire's recent cake promotion. The cake represents allancillary products, whereby agents can increase their commissionlevels significantly, with car hire being the biggest commission earner.The winning agency was determined by a draw of all new productiveagents in March and will be drawn again over the next few monthsending with a 'Your Car Hire Bake Off' whereby the best cake overallwill be chosen. Pictured from the left are: Olivia Hunter, POSTO repwith Alan Broad and Carla Heard from Robert Broad Travel.

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● A CRUISE ferry service has been launched to reconnectPortland, Maine and Yarmouth in Canada's Nova Scotia.A new ship, the Nova Star, has been built especially forthe trip and has capacity for 1,215 passengers. Theship offers 163 cabins, a casino, three restaurants, asalon, spa and a theatre with live entertainment. Thejourney takes around ten hours each way and will offerdaily sailings between the two locations.Tickets start from £42 per person, one-way. For details visit www.novastarcruises.com

● A NEW zip line experience will open in Snowdonia nextmonth. Zip World Titan will offer a series of threewires, flying daredevils along 8km of wire at up to 70miles per hour. For details see www.zipworld.co.uk/titan

● DFDS' PASSENGER ferry route between Harwich andEsbjerg has been struggling with high costs, loss ofpassengers and freight being switched to road transport.The route is therefore unable to bear the substantialadditional costs that a new environmental law will entailand will close on September 29. The company aims toensure freight customers still receive a good service onthe freight route between Esbjerg and Immingham. Thetwo large, modern vessels offer a daily departure eachway with a crossing time of 18 hours. Details at visit www.dfds.co.uk

● ARBLASTER & Clarke has launched a 13-night Chile,Argentina & Uruguay wine tour. Highlights include a stayat the 2,600-hectare private Vineyard Estate on theMaipo River in Chile; tastings and dinners hosted byCassone, Zuccardi, Catena, Luigi Bosca and Weinert inArgentina; and sampling tannat grapes in Uruguay. Thetour runs from February 16 to March 1, 2015 and priceslead in at £4,450 per person including five-star hotelaccommodation and private wine estates; 18 meals withwines; internal flights from Mendoza to Buenos Airesincluding pre-payable flight taxes; ferry crossing fromColonia del Sacramento to Buenos Aires and Montevideoto Buenos Aires in First Class; visits and tastings as perthe itinerary; a wine guide and tour manager. Call 01730-263111 or visit www.winetours.co.uk

“Pete was so impressed

with

he couldn’t wait to tell his colleagues.”

www.expedia.co.uk/taap

hotels to choose from

flight + hotel package combinations

course - www.expediataaptraining.co.uk

TRAVEL AGENT AFFILIATE PROGRAMME

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BUON GIORNO! I’ve gone all Italian afterlistening to Daniele Broccoli’s presentationfrom Typically Italian, which he did at a coffee

morning for High Ridings Travel. He brought withhim lots of Italian cakes, amaretto biscuits andsome red wine which of course got everyone in themood for Italy. And he didn’t need notes to read fromor remind him of anything - it all came from theheart with genuine enthusiasm and passion. He toldus all about the little important things to do with anarea or hotel that you don’t find in the guide books.Typically Italian can just about provide you with anytype of holiday, cooking, walking, truffle hunting,wine tasting, painting, operas, etc. I love theirdescription of ‘A nice pizza holiday’, you can put intoit what you want! They use the rail system a lot aswell which makes travelling even easier and moreinteresting. One interesting fact he gave us was thatif you want to see Venice, go in July or August (I canhear you saying it’s too hot then!) but actuallybecause the streets are so narrow the sun doesn’tget to beat down on you, making it fine. And believeit or not, the hoteliers can reduce their room ratesby up to 50% so that is well worth knowing.

He also mentioned that they have the TripAdvisorCertificate of Excellence on over 80% of their hotelswhich is a great recommendation, with hotels havingscored at least 4 or higher out of 5. I also like thatthey have a lot of hotels that are part of Agritourismand Typically Italian also have some apartments andvillas which are charged by the property, not perperson. I must admit Daniele has really made mewant to visit Italy - it has been many years since I wasthere on an educational and I would really like to goback this year.

‘Talent wins games but teamwork and intelligencewin championships’ and ‘The longer you dwell on yourmisfortune, the greater is their power to harm you’.

by SANDRA MURRAYin Normanton, Yorkshire

Notes from

Normanton...

To respond to any of Sandy’s comments email

[email protected]

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WEBSCLUSIVES

● Win a Kindle, courtesy of the Greek National

Tourist Office. Just answer a few questions to be inwith a chance. To enter, go towww.travelbulletin.co.uk/competitions

● Win an exclusive VIP Luxury Hamper from the 5*All Inclusive Maritim Hotel Mauritius. Enter ourcompetition today atwww.travelbulletin.co.uk/competitions

● Videobox: Follow the continuing adventures ofBritain’s Funnest Family – The Alexanders fromNottingham – as they sample their virgin cruise,courtesy of Carnival Cruise Lines. Watch the latestepisode on www.travelbulletin.co.uk/video-box

All this and more at:


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Swan Hellenic highlights new Greekitineraries for 2015

SWAN HELLENIC has announced a return to its Greekroutes for 2015, with a journey through classical history onMinerva and back to where it all began.

Minerva will also set sail to the lesser-visited Azores forthe first time, along with a string of smaller towns alongthe Dalmatian coast.

To celebrate the launch of the new cruises, the line isoffering an early booking discount of up to 10% for newcustomers when booked by June 30.

Colin Wilson, group sales director at All Leisure Group,said: "We’re all very excited to be continuing thecelebrations of 2014 by re-exploring Minerva’s early routesnext year. The new itineraries all offer world classspeakers, unique excursions and exciting new ports forguests to really get to the heart of the destination. We hopethe 10% discount will encourage bookings and ensureagents build up their commission early this year."

As an example of itineraries, ‘The Sparkling Aegean’ 15-day cruise takes passengers to monasteries, ruins andSantorini’s caldera. Island visits include Skyros, Symi andMilos, with prices starting from £2,490 per person, basedon a September 16 departure. It includes flights, allgratuities, transfers, meals, a series of guest speaker talksand a programme of tailor-made shore excursions, worthup to £650 per person.For more information see www.voyagesofdiscovery.co.uk

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TRAVEL 2 has teamed up with United Airlines togive agents the chance to win £250 in shoppingvouchers. The operator's ‘Discover the USA withUnited Airlines’ campaign is designed to keep theairline at the forefront of agents’ and theirconsumers’ minds as the airline of choice whenflying to the US. The £250 worth of shoppingvouchers are up for grabs for all agents who makea new booking with the company that includesflights with United Airlines and a minimum of threedays’ ground arrangements from now until May 31.For details visit www.travel2.com

VIVA LAS VEGAS...Emily Barnes from Andrew Earle’sWorld of Travel in Hull was announced as the winner ofDoSomethingDifferent.com's agent incentive. Emily won athree-night stay for two in Las Vegas including flights,limousine transfers, a helicopter flight, tickets to Cirquedu Soleil Show, a hot air balloon ride, a Shop & Dineexperience, plus VIP access to the top clubs in Las Vegaswith a VIP Night Club Tour. Pictured with Emily is DanClyburn from DoSomethingDifferent.com


agentbulletin

Booking incentiveAgent trainingTHIS MONTH the Mauritius Tourism and PromotionAuthority (MTPA) is promoting its continuedcommitment to the trade by hosting its annualMTPA Agent Roadshow. The UK team will joinforces with 13 partners to host a programme ofregional events from May 12-14, each designed tobring agents and product managers the latest newsfrom the destination. The roadshow kicks off inGlasgow on May 12, followed by Chester on May 13and London on May 14. Each evening will mixbusiness with pleasure, integrating drinks anddinner with training. The events will culminate witha game–show style quiz where attendees will battleit out to win the ultimate prize of a holiday to theisland. For more information or to register toattend email [email protected]

SANDALS RESORTS' ‘Sandals on Tour’ (travel agentquiz nights) has returned for 2014. The events runthroughout this month and next and places are stillavailable for agents to register. The quiz nightsoffer fun activities, food and beverages, learningand prizes, including the chance to win five freenights at Sandals or Beaches. Travel agents willneed to be in a team of three to enter where theywill compete against each other in a pub-style quiznight designed to test and further develop theirknowledge of Sandals and Beaches KSPs, in a funand interactive environment. For more details or toregister email [email protected]. To beeligible, agents must also have completed theonline training at www.sellingsandals.co.uk

AGENTS COMPLETING China Southern Airlines'online course and who correctly answer a range ofquestions (at ott.travel) will be entered into a drawto win a £100 Love2Shop voucher plus a place on afam later in the year.

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Arctic 2015 with Quark ExpeditionsTHE QUARK Expeditions' 2015 season has been announcedwith a number of new routes including a Scotland departure.

The 14-day Scotland to Norway: Crossing the Arctic Circleexpedition begins in Aberdeen and takes in the Viking trailexploring the northern Atlantic, its ancient history andarchaeology.

Guests can experience the culture and landscapes ofNorthern Scotland and Zodiac cruise amongst the classiclandscapes of the Norwegian fjords.

Prices start from £4,845 per person including 13 nights'accommodation with meals, based on a May 28, 2015departure. For further information or to book call 0808-120 2333 or seewww.quarkexpeditions.com/gb

'Kids go free' deal from Hurtigruten HURTIGRUTEN IS targeting families with older children forthe first time with a ‘Kids go free’ offer this summer.

Agents booking a Classic Norwegian Coastal Voyage beforeMay 31 for their clients, for travel during July, August andSeptember, can offer free travel on full board to childrenunder 15 years old when sharing a cabin with their parents.

The offer is combinable with a number of other discountsincluding a ‘second person travels for half price’ offer.

That means prices for a seven-day ‘Classic Voyage North’for a family of four sharing a four berth cabin on a full boardbasis, departing on August 29, costs from £1,663 total or £416per person. Flights and transfers are bookable for anadditional £395 per person.

The offer is valid on cruise-only prices in three- and four-berth cabins, so a family of four staying in a four-berth cabin,would only pay for the two adults and receive two free kidsplaces. Alternatively a couple travelling with one child in athree-berth cabin will receive one free child place.For more information call 020-8846 2666 or visitwww.hurtigruten.co.uk/agents

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staffreviewLauretta Wright spent a night at Holiday Inn Gatwick to

trial its Park, Stay & Go Club. Here's what she thought....

If you'd like to take part and receive a free M&S

voucher please email [email protected]

or call 020-7834 6661 with your name and contact details.

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

Parking was straightforward (at the back of the hotel) and Iwas met with a warm welcome at reception. While I handedin the car keys and filled out a couple of forms I was offereda welcome drink.

Comfort ....................................................9/10

The hotel is very comfortable and clean. I stayed in an executiveroom which offered tea & coffee-making facilities, water,trouser press, iron, flat screen TV and movies on demand.

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

A great example of an airport hotel - the thoughtful touchessuch as free drinks in the reception area, a kids' play areaplus live departure and arrival screens in reception are a pluspoint. There is also a restaurant serving breakfast, lunch anddinner as well as a bar and coffee shop.

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

Park, Stay and Go packages vary in price. In winter they startfrom £70-80 and in the summer from £120. On joining theclub, discounts are offered the more you use the service.Whether you’re parking for four, eight, 15 or 21 days, allpackages include overnight accommodation with free use ofthe hotel facilities, car parking and 24-hour shuttle busservice to both terminals.

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

Staff were always courteous and very swift to respond.

Good to know ..................................................Shuttle buses to/from the airport run every 10-15 minutes andfree Wi-Fi is to be introduced at the hotel from July. For detailssee www.higatwickairporthotel.co.uk

Overall scoring: ......................

IN THE BAG...SuperBreak recently hosted a night out for agentsat ‘Handbagged’ at the Vaudeville Theatre, a comedy play basedon Margaret Thatcher's time as Prime Minister and herrelationship with The Queen. Pictured getting ready to enjoythe show are, from the left: Amy Brooke, Hays Travel; Colin Fanning, SuperBreak; and Lisa Holliday and TonyManning, Hays Travel.

9.510/


puzzlebulletin


Where Am I?

This former papal city on the French Rivierahouses the Palais des Papes

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, May 15th. Solution and new puzzle will

appear next week.

The winner for 25th April is Lisa Drake, Hays Travel in

Cambs.

April 25 Solution: A=5 B=1 C=7 D=4

➠A

➠B

➠C

➠D

Number: 018

Travagrams

Across 1. Hotel brand, part of Accor (7)5. Major travel group (3)7. Greece specialist, part of Thomas Cook (5)8. English band, sounds like they're out on a

limb (5)9. Tehran is the capital (4)10. Group of islands by Galway Bay (4)13. Popular Rhodes resort (4)15. Central African country (4)18. The most populated country in the world (5)19. Lively Corfu resort (5)20. India's smallest state and popular holiday

destination (3)21. Tallinn is the capital (7)

Down 1. Destroyed in 79 AD, it's now a disaster waiting

to happen at a cinema near you (7)2. Part of Hawaii, known as Pineapple Island (5)3. Capital of Oman (6)4. First name of Deal or No Deal host (4)5. Holidays operator specialising in Scandinavia

(5)6. Carisbrooke Castle is located here, initially (3)11. Capital of Cyprus (7)12. Thailand's largest island (6)14. This Mediterranean island Rocks every year (5)16. English county with North and South coasts (5)17. Capital of the Maldives (4)18. Charles de Gaulle 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:

018

French painter of the Post-Impressionist period shares his name with this city

The name of this hotel group bears similarity to the name of this puppet

Use Lo Out

Ram It Rot

Can you solve the following anagrams to decipher the destination & tour operator?Win a £50 Love2Shop voucher in the Su Doku prize puzzle


IT IS often commented that working in the travelindustry is like working in a large family. Eventhough I would not even like to hazard a guess as

to how many are actually employed in travel indifferent guises in this country, one always bumpsinto the same people albeit with some having movedon to another company. Because of this familyatmosphere, there is always a happy buzz at thevarious award ceremonies that take place during thecourse of the year.

One such occasion was the recent AgentsAchievements Awards held in London. All the majormedia publications have their own awards eveningswith similar categories being fought over each time.Although everybody likes to win an award, there canonly ever be one winner and colleagues striving towin the same award are generous in acknowledgingthe winner. There is always next time and it isunusual for the same companies to win each time. Itwas lovely to have seen two members of our EliteTravel Group having won awards - Carrick Travel andPeakes Travel Elite: it was equally rewarding to seethe very resplendent Sally Carrick winning an awardfor having made a massive contribution to theindustry. Fortunately there is alcohol to placate thenon-winners! And I have to say that the London Tubestrike proved to be something of a damp squib: Itravelled in the middle of the day and my journeyfrom Marylebone to Southwark was one of the easiestI have done!

Good travel agents are like walking bibles! It neverceases to amaze me the depth of knowledge thatsome agents possess to match the huge expectationsof clients. Yes, most information can now be easilygleaned by clients themselves if they are prepared toscan on-line for hours on end but what is the pointwhen these founts of knowledge, known as travelagents, can be found on the High Street or workingfrom home? What makes the job challenging is thefact that few clients ever actually want the same: theymay often want the same destination but that iswhere the similarity ends.

Enquiries that I have on the go just today are for ariver cruise in Russia, a holiday to Southern Africataking in South Africa and Botswana and thenanother itinerary to Nicaragua combined with

Guatemala. The same clients have just returned fromVietnam so their tastes are varied! Not only do theywant advice about the destinations and hotels, rightlythey understandably want to know about the besttime to go weather-wise and what to see and do oncethere: not much then! It is nigh impossible for oneperson to know absolutely everything about eachholiday destination: a good agent, however, knowswho to turn to get the best holiday for the clients atthe right price - not necessarily the cheapest but atthe price best suited to the requirements of theclient. As I often say to my own clients: “Never lookat what you are paying - look at what you aregetting!”

Having thought that I would have a few momentsaway from selling holidays, I plucked up the courageearly this morning to go to my dentist. Have younoticed that there is very little conversation requireduntil you have your mouth open, crammed full withinstruments and various gadgets that makedisgusting noises? That is when the dentist asks youquestions and expects immediate answers! Thismorning’s visit was no different: just at the dreadedmoment when I had my mouth full, I was asked whatI knew about Puglia as he was having difficultyfinding anybody with a knowledge of the region! I wasnot going to admit that I actually know very littleabout that corner of Italy so I gave him the necessaryassurances that I would be able to find him theperfect holiday. I have spent far too much money overthe years at the dentist so this will be pay-back time:the only difference is that the only pain will be theremoval of his wallet from his back pocket!

Industry Insight by...

by Neil W Basnett, chief executive of Elite Travel Group, likens travel agents to walking bibles...

bulletinbriefing

"What makes the job challenging is

the fact that few clients ever actually

want the same: they may often want

the same destination but that is

where the similarity ends"



Solar eclipse tour from Taber HolidaysAGENTS WHOSE clients are lookingfor a unique break can witness atotal solar eclipse in the FaroeIslands – one of two places in theworld where it can be observedfrom land next March, and TaberHolidays is offering a four-nighttour to take in the event for £1,299 per person.

On March 20, 2015, the moon will move directly infront of the sun and block its rays entirely. This period oftotality will last for two minutes on the Faroe Islandsand guests on the operator's eclipse tour will join localsin viewing the event. Celebrations will then take placethroughout the day with a host of cultural eventsplanned and a focus on local food and drink.

Guests will have the option to stay in either anapartment on a self-catering basis, in a bed-and-breakfast, or embrace the culture and lodge with a localfamily.

There is also the option for guests to explore some ofthe archipelago and take part in an optional excursion bycoach to Vestmanna followed by a boat trip for £77.

The tour departs on March 17 and includes flightsfrom Stansted with Atlantic Airways, taxes, transfers andaccommodation, based on two sharing. For details call 01274-875199 or seewww.taberhols.co.uk

Take a cruise on land with WLH FOLLOWING THE success of Warner Leisure Hotels' new 2014break, ‘Anchors Away – A Cruise on Land’, the hotel group hasannounced new dates for the virtual tour for 2015 that areavailable to book now. Virtually transporting its ‘passengers’ ona journey to four different destinations, the concept allowsguests to sample dishes, cocktails and fun entertainment fromaround the world.

In 2015 the on-land cruise will begin in Sydney where guestswill get to sample specials from Down Under on the menu,before sailing to Hong Kong to enjoy a taste of the Orient. Thenit’s down through the South China Sea and into theMediterranean stopping at Monte Carlo where a feast ofFrench cuisine will be served before the ship arrives backhome in England.

Guests also take part in shipboard classic games includingShuffleboard and Deck Quoits and check their knowledge atmultimedia trivia quizzes and game shows.

The midweek break is available to book at Alvaston HallHotel in Cheshire starting on January 5, 12, 19 and 26;Lakeside Coastal Village in Hampshire on February 16 and 23and March 2 and 9; Corton Coastal Village in Suffolk on March30 and April 6, 13 and 20; and Norton Grange Coastal Villageon May 18 and 25 and June 1 and 8.

Prices for a four-night mid-week Anchors Away – A Cruiseon Land break at Corton Coastal Village, Suffolk start from£150 per person, based on two adults sharing a standardchalet and the Simply Dine package – full English breakfastsand three-course evening meals.

THIS INCENTIVE IS FOR ALL SUMMER 2014 BOOKINGS RECEIVED BETWEEN 01/05 /14 31/05/14. THE COMPLIMENTARY ACCOMMODATION CAN BE TAKEN ANY TIME FROM 12TH JANU-ARY 2015 – 30/12/15 EXCLUDING 15/07/15 – 23/08/15. ANY DATES SELECTED FOR TRAVEL WILL BE SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY. THE INCENTIVE IS NONTRANSFERABLE AND HAS NO CASH ALTERNATIVE VALUE. ALL CLAIMS MUST BE MADE IN WRITING BY EMAIL WITH PROOF OF BOOKING REFERENCES, TO [email protected]. WWW.THEROYALAPOLLONIA.COM

R O Y A L I N C E N T I V EFOR BOOKINGS 131/5/2014

FOR EVERY TWO BOOKINGS

MADE FOR A MINIMUM SEVEN NIGHT DURATION, FOR

TWO FULL PAYING GUESTS

Y O U W I L L R E C E I V E A C O M P L E M E N TA R Y S E V E N N I G H T A C C O M M O D AT I O N

O N B / B F O R T W O, I N C L U D I N G A N H O U R

U S E E A C H I N O U R C L I M AT O L O G I C A L R O O M

AT T H E R O YA L S PA .

a legendary hotel is reborn

newsbulletin


Dream DestinationsIn every issue this month, we will remind you of the Travel Bulletin Star Awards available in each ofthe industry sectors - and this week it's the turn of the 'Dream Destinations'. Take a look at the2014 categories in this sector and decide who, for you, has stood out from the crowd. A previouswinner also reflects on their Star Awards experience and their relationship with the trade...

Agent voting is open until 6th June2014. You can fill in the voting formonline at www.travelbulletin.co.uk/awards/the-voting or complete theprinted form accompanying thisweek's issue. Remember there aresome fantastic prizes to be won in afree prize draw.

2014 Dream DestinationscategoriesThere are eight categories to vote for in DreamDestinations. They include:

● Star Europe Tourist Office

● Star Middle East Tourist Office

● Star Australasia Tourist Office

● Star South America Tourist Office

● Star North America Tourist Office

● Star Caribbean Tourist Office

● Star Africa Tourist Office

● Star Asia Tourist Office

Last year's winner underthe 'Best Support Acts'category for 'Star TouristOffice for Incentives &Fam Trips' went to VisitCalifornia. Here, thetourist office's travel tradedirector, Bethany Bond,reflects on last year's winand looks forward to whatthis year's Star Awardshold in store...

Winner's Words

What made winning your award so special last year? The SuperFAM for us is one of our cornerstone programmes, andnow in its 7th year. To gain recognition of this essentially eight-month long programme was amazing!

How have you continued to work with the trade? Training remains a huge focus as our biggest hurdle in gainingsales to California is getting agents to understand it better. Oncesales staff understand our key messaging of diversity andabundance, then the sale is easy. We’ve taken a huge number ofagent fam trips to California this year, and in June we are bringinga delegation of 21 California companies to the UK for two trainingroadshows in London and Manchester on 12th and 13th June.

What developments in the industry as a whole doyou think that agents should be aware of? In the past couple of years, Brand USA has been an effectiveresource and it’s great that there is now a national tourist board topromote the USA as a whole. I would suggest that agents checkout their programmes on offer and sign up to their newsletters.

What new developments have you announced sincelast year?We have rebranded with a new tagline and brand platform called‘Dream Big’. A ton of new and exciting content was developed,agents can have a look here: http://dream365.visitcalifornia.com

What are you most looking forward to at this year'sStar Awards event?The entertainment and compère are always a nice surprise – theStar Awards always has the best acts.



ANATOLIAN SKY Holidays ispoised to launch its latestbrochure for holidays toMadeira at the end of thismonth, which will includethe neighbouring island ofPorto Santo, as well as achoice of city breaks toLisbon and Porto.

To coincide with thelaunch, the company isoffering £10 Love2Shopvouchers to agents makingbookings to Madeira forautumn/winter 2015.

The operator’sprogramme in Madeiraincludes a choice ofcharacter ‘quinta’ hotels inand around Funchal,modern seafront hotels, spabreaks and more, ideal forbreaks throughout the year,with plenty of culture andscenery to explore. For more information visitwww.anatoliansky.co.uk orcall 0844-273 3585.

Agent bookingincentive from

Anatolian

portugal&madeira

MADEIRA'S GALO Resort offers a range of sport and activities for guests including a diving school, kayaking, stand-up paddling,snorkelling and windsurfing. The property is located on the waterfront, and offers three separate hotels, with private resort beach'Lido Galomar' offering year-round access to the ocean and salt water pool. Other onsite facilities include a fitness club,squash/volleyball courts, wellness area, indoor pool, spa, jacuzzi and saunas, plus a range of exercise classes.

ORIZONTE LISBON Golf, the management brand for sevenunsung layouts close to the Portuguese capital, has launched anew English version of its website and has unveiled a range ofnew golf passports.

Featuring descriptions, galleries and overview plans for allcourses, plus a guide to key attributes of the region, the newwebsite – en.orizontegolf.com – also includes live news andweather feeds, plus information on airlines flying direct toLisbon from ten UK and Irish airports.

In terms of value, golfers can choose from a selection ofthree and five-round passports and enjoy golf at a range of

courses including Quinta do Peru Golf and Country Club,Aroeira and Ribagolfe, with prices starting from €165 perperson for a three-round package.

ORIZONTE’s three-round golf passports include the chanceto play 18 holes at Quinta do Peru and both courses at Aroeiraor rounds at Ribagolfe I, Ribagolfe II and Santo Estêvão for

55 a round per person.Alternatively, golfers can select the ‘5-Round Passport’

which offers the choice of all six golfing venues from €275 perperson (no course can be played more than twice).To book or for further information email [email protected]

Launch of Lisbon Golf Passports offering three rounds from €165 per person

EXPLORE HAS introduced a 'Walks and Wine Tasting' tour that takes in Portugal and Spain.The itinerary offers a journey from Madrid to Porto through the Ribera del Duero region ofSpain and the Douro wine lands of Portugal.

Guests can sample regional vintages at local bodegas and take in the countryside, nationalparks and river gorges while visiting historic cities and villages along the way.

Prices for the 12-day option lead in at £1,276 per person including flights; 11 nights'breakfast accommodation, transport and the service of a tour leader and cook.

The operator is also highlighting an eight-day Levada Trails Of Madeira itinerary thatfollows Madeira's characteristic 'levadas' (narrow irrigation channels). Guests can walk someof the best trails on the volcanic island and hike the 'balcony walk' - a path hewn into the cliffface - to the summit of Pico Ruivo, as well as spend time in the capital Funchal. Prices lead inat £758 including flights, seven nights' breakfast accommodation, transport and the servicesof a tour leader and driver. For further information see www.explore.co.uk or call 0844-499 0901.

New 'Walks & Wine Tasting two-country tour from Explore

CUSTOMERS LOOKING for abreak on the Algarve, but whoprefer to be away from thekey resorts, can now book twonew hotels throughSuperBreak.

Both offer rural locationsand cater for the four-starmarket and can be booked asaccommodation-only or aspart of a flight inclusivepackage with full ATOLprotection.

The four-star Praia Verde

Boutique Hotel in CastroMarim offers an outdoor pooland is 800 metres from PraiaVerde beach and a five minutedrive from Monte Gordo. Eachroom includes a fullyequipped compact kitchen,while free on-site parking isalso available. Prices in Junestart from £83.50 per person,per night including breakfast.

Meanwhile, flight-inclusivepackages at the four-star VilaMonte Resort in

Moncarapacho lead in at £310which includes two nights'breakfast accommodation andflights from Gatwick in June.The hotel is located in therural Algarve, ten minutesfrom the beach, and theproperty offers a restaurantand spa.

All packages are fullycommissionable and bookableonline atwww.superbreak.com/agents For details call 01904-436000.

Algarve properties from £83.50 per night with SuperBreak

S04 TB0905 - Portugal & Madeira_Layout 1 07/05/2014 12:16

portugal&madeira


SURFERS LODGE Peniche, a high end surf lodge in Peniche (a smallPortuguese fishing town) has opened. The property provides guestswith an intimate, homely environment that combines original designwith a surf school for guests of all standards, as well as theopportunity to explore the unspoilt, wild and rugged coastline. TheLodge has 17 guestrooms including two dormitories and two luxurysuites. A one-night stay in a double room costs from €118 while aone-night stay in a suite leads in at €149 - both in low season. A one-week surf package staying in a Suite costs from €992.50 per personbased on two sharing and includes five days' surf training, yoga, threemeals daily and one massage.For details see www.surferslodgepeniche.com or [email protected]

The Azores hosts debut volcano super-marathon this monthA RUNNING event covering a distance longer than a marathonwill take place for the first time in the volcanic islands of theAzores on May 24.

“The Azores Trail Run” will launch on the European Day ofParks & Wildlife in the protected landscapes of the NaturePark of Faial on Faial Island, and will see enthusiasts take toone of two intense, lush and rocky trails, the Faial Ultra Coastto Coast and the Trail of Ten Volcanoes.

Longer than a Marathon at 52 km, the Faial Ultra Coast toCoast trail starts near the historic fishing port and lighthouseof Bocca da Riberinha on Faial’s east coast, taking in a rangeof protected volcanic formations. At the Calderia (one of thelargest in the world at 2 km wide) in the centre of the island,the Trail of Ten Volcanoes (the size of a half marathon at 21km) joins the Faial Ultra Coast to Coast trail.

From here, participants will take in ten volcanoes and rareflora and bird life across nearly half of the island, passingthrough areas such as the Lavada with its rail bridge, tunneland an ancient basaltic volcanic cone. The running trail ends atCapelinhos, a dramatic and unusual landscape on the coastwhich was created during one of the world’s best documentedvolcanic eruptions in 1957.

The running event aims to promote and celebrate theislands’ biodiversity and the sustainable tourism activities onoffer along its trails such as walking, hiking and cycling. Otheractivities on offer include climbing, canyoning, paragliding,sailing, canoeing, kayaking, surfing, whale-watching, scubadiving and swimming with dolphins.

Fitness enthusiasts can enjoy a week of cycling on PontaDelgada with Saddle Skedaddle, before hopping on a plane toFaial Island for the Azores Trail Run. Skedaddle’s self-guidedroad or leisure cycling option costs from £815 per personexcluding flights. An extra week in Faial for the Azores TrailRun starts from £975 per person and includes flights fromPonta Delgada to Horta, car hire, hotel accommodation andentry to the Azores Trail Run.To book call 0191 2651110 or for details visitwww.skedaddle.co.uk andwww.azorestrailrun.com/2014/registration

EXPLORE HAS introduced a 'Walks and Wine Tasting' tour thattakes in Portugal and Spain. The itinerary offers a journey fromMadrid to Porto through the Ribera del Duero region of Spainand the Douro wine lands of Portugal.

Guests can sample regional vintages at local bodegas andtake in the countryside, national parks and river gorges whilevisiting historic cities and villages along the way.

Prices for the 12-day option lead in at £1,276 per personincluding flights; 11 nights' breakfast accommodation,transport and the service of a tour leader and cook.

The operator is also highlighting an eight-day Levada TrailsOf Madeira itinerary that follows Madeira's characteristic'levadas' (narrow irrigation channels). Guests can walk some ofthe best trails on the volcanic island and hike the 'balcony walk'- a path hewn into the cliff face - to the summit of Pico Ruivo,as well as spend time in the capital Funchal. Prices lead in at£758 including flights, seven nights' breakfast accommodation,transport and the services of a tour leader and driver. For further information see www.explore.co.uk or call 0844-499 0901.

New 'Walks & Wine Tasting' two-country tour from Explore


portugal&madeira

THE CONRAD Algarve Hotel, which opened last year, hasintroduced a new Platinum Golfing Experience package.

It includes four nights in a deluxe room including breakfast;three evening meals with a glass of Champagne; a round of golfat both Laranjal and Monte Rei; an extra round of golf at acourse of the guest’s choice, with all equipment provided; andunlimited range balls before play to ensure a proper warm up.

The major golf courses include the Ocean Course andRoyal Course in Vale Do Lobo, and the three championshipgolf courses in Quinta Do Lago - all a stone’s throw away fromthe hotel. The property also offers a Golf Concierge Servicewith the PGA Golf Pro Fernando Nogueira. Golf-loving guestscan choose from either an à la carte golf experience tailored

to their needs or from a pre-prepared list of activities.The hotel has also partnered with Tour Master Classes, a

new coaching programme where golfers can learn the tips orsecrets of top tour players. Guests will have the opportunity toplay with and be coached by European Tour winners on aselection of Quinta do Lago’s courses. The next Tour MasterClass will run from October 14-16, with further dates to beannounced for 2014. Prices for the new Platinum GolfingExperience start from €2,400 per room based on two peoplestaying for four nights. Rates at Conrad Algarve start from €164based on two adults sharing a grand deluxe room on a bed-and-breakfast basis.For more information see www.conradhotels.com/algarve

New Platinum golfing package & master classes launched at Conrad Algarve

SUNVIL DISCOVERY has introduced anextended programme to Portugal’sCentro region, with new propertiesranging from grand historic townhousesto rural village casas, and a new Casada Ínsua itinerary exploring the region’sheritage and cuisine, based in aBaroque manor house.

The operator's suggested itinerariesinclude a four-night stay in Casa daÍnsua which offers convenient access tovillages, beaches and rugged mountain

ranges. Prices lead in at £472 perperson including breakfastaccommodation, five days’ car hire, awelcome drink, three-course eveningmeal, a ‘Serra cheese’ or ‘fruit jam’workshop and entrance to Casa daÍnsua’s Centro Museologico, an on-sitecollection of historic artefacts from theproperty.

Alternatively, a seven-night 'Centroand Alentejo, perfect partners' combinesthe two regions that remain

unblemished by mass tourism. The trip begins in the historic city of

Evora, with its cobbled streets andintricate architecture, before venturingaway from the city to pass through wineestates, wild landscapes and sandybeaches.

Prices start from £950 includingbreakfast accommodation, flights fromGatwick and eight days’ car hire.For details or to book call 020-8758 4722or visit www.sunvil.co.uk

Sunvil Discovery expands Portugal programme with new selection of properties


Portugal Tourist Office announces increasein UK overnight stays & expects similar

success for 2014 LAST YEAR, UK visitors accounted for seven millionovernight stays in Portugal, an increase of 8.6% on theprevious year. Last year also proved to be a successful year for tourism inPortugal with visitor numbers increasing from both the UKand global markets.

Guests from the UK market alone reached 1.4m, up 7.4%from 2012 and generated revenue in the region of 1.5bn,an increase of 4.2%. The British market currently ranksfirst in terms of importance amongst the main inboundmarkets.

Filipe Silva, UK director of Turismo de Portugal expectsthat 2014 will be a similarly successful year. He said: "TAPPortugal, BA, Jet2.com, Ryanair, easyJet, Monarch,Thomson and FlyBe have all added flight capacity to allfour of Portugal’s airports, suggesting demand for flights toPortugal is increasing.

“We believe this is due to the diverse product we have onoffer - from cities, beaches, golf, nature and culture, toworld-renowned gastronomy and wine.

“Throughout this year we will continue to work closelywith tour operators and travel agents within the industry topromote the country’s latest developments and products,and hopefully in turn, attract more visitors.”For more information see www.visitportugal.com

CLASSIC COLLECTION Holidays is featuring more propertiesin Madeira for summer, with the addition of four newproperties to its existing portfolio of 28 hotels and quintas.

The company's head of purchasing, Gary Boyer, said: "Weare using our long-standing favourable relationships withhoteliers to secure as many special offers as possiblemaking the island, which is already at least 30% cheaperthan many other short–haul destinations, an unbeatablevalue for money resort. And with customer feedbackremaining amongst the highest for any of our destinations,we are confident that Madeira will maintain its position asone of the most well-loved holiday destinations on the UKmarket."

Of the four new hotels added , Quinta do Lorde is part ofthe resort complex with the same name in Canical marina,the Four Views Baia, and offers a peaceful location in thehills above Funchal, as does the newly added Choupana HillsResort & Spa. Meanwhile, the LTI Pestana Grand overlooksthe ocean on Funchal seafront with access to the capital’s3km long coastal pedestrian promenade. Prices are instantlyavailable for holidays including direct flights from 12 UKairports and Dublin, to Funchal. A direct service from Gatwickto Porto Santo island is also available, and the companyoffers quotes for Business Class seats on scheduled flightsand room upgrades to sea views, junior suites and suites.Twin centre and multi-centre holidays between Madeira,Porto Santo, the Algarve and Lisbon can also be tailor-made. For details call 0800-008 7288 or visit www.classic-collection.co.uk

New Madeira properties from Classic

portugal&madeira



Qatar TourismAuthority highlightsfree Doha excursion

THE QATAR TourismAuthority has teamed upwith Qatar Airways to offerfree Doha excursions forpassengers who are passingthrough Doha.

Passengers travellingwith Qatar Airways will nowhave a unique transitexperience with those whohave between five and 12hours between flights inDoha able to take advantageof the free city tour.

The tour takes threehours and includes visits tosome of the key landmarksaround Doha city includingthe Museum of Islamic Art,Katara Cultural andHeritage Village, The PearlQatar and Souq Waqif. AnEnglish-speaking guide ison hand to provideinformation and insightsabout Doha for the durationof the tour. For further information visitwww.qatartourism.gov.qa

ABU DHABI’S 149 hotels and hotel apartments saw a 33% year-on-year jump in guests duringFebruary when occupancy reached 81% - 4% up on last year.

Figures released by Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority (TCA Abu Dhabi) showed that262,193 guests checked into the emirate’s accommodation during February, delivering a 21%month-on-month rise to 815,718 guest nights.

The largest overseas guest market in the first two months of this year was the UK with 32,428British guests checking into the emirate’s accommodation, a 31% lift. They accounted for 136,333guest nights, 15% up year-on-year, with stays averaging just over four nights.

Deputy director general of TCA Abu Dhabi, HE Jasem Al Darmaki, said: “February was richwith gourmet, cultural, B2B, entertainment and sporting events and these contributed to ourrecord month. We are encouraged by the growth in occupancy levels and are focusing onincreasing the average length of stay, which currently stands at just over three nights and onbuilding the average room rate.”

Renewed growth for Abu Dhabi's hotel occupancies

middleeast

MOUNTAIN KINGDOMS offers an 11-day Trek to Petra & Wadi Rum in Jordan led by expert guides. The moderate trekking itinerary hasbeen designed to offer travellers the chance to see varied and desert landscapes, combined with some of the region’s historical sights.Highlights include views of the ‘Treasury’ on entering the ancient Nabatean City of Petra via a rock gorge; a walk from Little Petra to ‘theMonastery’; a night in a Bedouin tent in Wadi Rum; and a visit to the Dead Sea. One night will also be spent at the Wadi Feynan Eco-lodge,which uses solar power and is mostly lit by candles. Prices start from £2,295 per person including flights, accommodation in three- andfour-star hotels, full service camping and most meals. Group departures are offered in October and next April, while private departuresand tailor-made holidays are available on alternative dates. Group departures are available from October 9-19 from £1,845 land-only and£2,295 including flights or April 2-12, 2015 from £1,845 land-only. A minimum of five and a maximum of 12 people are permitted on grouptours and walks take place on seven out of 11 days. Breakfast accommodation is provided in Amman, with all meals provided elsewhere.For details see www.mountainkingdoms.com

ATTRACTION WORLD hasadded new add-on options inAbu Dhabi - at Yas Waterworldand Ferrari World, both ofwhich lead in at £46 perperson (four years and above).Yas Waterworld features 43rides, slides and attractions,while Ferrari World featuresrides and attractions designedto tell the Ferrari story inways which will appeal to abroad audience of differentages and interests.

Yas Waterworld

S05 TB0905 - Middle East_Layout 1 07/05/2014 12:25

EXPLORE HAS added a seven-night 'Cycle Jordan' tour to its programme. The itinerary takes guests to explore the beauty and cultural heritage of Jordan. After the Crusader Castle of Shobak and a float in the Dead Sea, guests can follow the

King's Highway to the rock-hewn 'lost' city of Petra, ride down to the southern desertand spend a night under the stars in Wadi Rum at a Bedouin camp.

Prices for the nine-day cycle tour lead in at £1,280 per person including flights; sevennights' hotel and one night camping accommodation, all with breakfast; one dinner;transport; and the service of a driver, local guides and a tour leader/cycle guide.For further information or to book visit www.explore.co.uk or call 0844-499 0901.

THE ESPA spa located within the Venetian Village at The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canalhas officially opened.

The beachfront spa is situated on two levels and features two Moroccan hammams, saunas,marbled steam rooms and 16 treatment rooms.

Separate male and female outdoor relaxation areas with private plunge pools are also offered,along with a 1,600sq m outdoor swimming pool. Pace e Luce beauty salon, located within thespa, also provides hair, nail and make-up services.

Situated on the Grand Canal overlooking the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the 57-acre hoteloffers a choice of luxury accommodation options including 85 private villas and four suites. For more information or to book email [email protected] or visitwww.ritzcarlton.com

QATAR AIRWAYS’anticipated arrival of itsA380 fleet has moved onestep closer, with theannouncement that fromJune 17 the aircraft willcommence operations onthe popular Heathrow routefrom Doha’s new hub,Hamad InternationalAirport.

The first of 13 suchaircraft on order, thecarrier is set to receivethree A380 aircraft in quicksuccession this summerand the new aircraft willcommence operations on

the QR003 and QR004Heathrow route.

Featuring a tri-classconfiguration of seating inFirst, Business andEconomy Class over twodecks, the A380 is thelargest passenger jet in theworld. The new First Classseat features a 90-inchseat pitch, transforminginto a fully flat bed,together with a choice ofentertainment optionsdisplayed on individual 26-inch TV screens.

The airline's CEO, AkbarAl Baker, said: “It is a

significant moment in ourairline’s history to welcomethese aircraft into ourrapidly expanding fleet.Operating on the Doha toHeathrow route, theseaircraft, with theircustomised cabins, will seta new level of comfort forour passengers, who willalso benefit from a smoothand pleasant passengerexperience at the world’snewest airport, HamadInternational Airport, thesoon to be opened newhome of Qatar Airways.”

The carrier is also

celebrating a year ofintensive fleet growth andrecently became a memberof the oneworld globalalliance network. Inaddition to the 13 A380aircraft the airline currentlyhas on order, the carrier isalso set to welcome thefirst of 80 A350 aircraft thisyear, as Airbus’ launchcustomer. This forms partof the company's plans tosignificantly expand its fleetwith 300 additional aircrafton order, worth more thanUS$50bn, including theBoeing 787 and 777X.

Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi unveils new beachfront spa

Explore adds seven-day cycling tour in Jordan for £1,280


middleeast

ROTANA HAS announcedthe inauguration of itsnew hotel in KidZania, aneducational environmentfor children and parentsto enjoy, at The DubaiMall in the UAE.

The hotel’s designmimics the layout of areal Rotana property witha dedicated space for alobby, Zen the spa andrestaurant lookalikes.

Children aged four to16 years will have theopportunity to participatein three 20-minute role-playing activities,including working as areceptionist – roomreservation, restaurantofficer and ashousekeeping colleagues.Each activity is designedto introduce buddinghospitality professionalsto the workingatmosphere at Rotanaand the skills they needto flourish in thehospitality industry.

Dubai debut fornew children'shotel from Rotana

Qatar Airways announces plans to debut first A380 on Heathrow route in June



OMAN'S 'GREEN mountains' will see the launch of one of the country's most sustainable hotels this month with the opening of the GoldEarthCheck standard design resort of Alila Jabal Akhdar. Ideal for adventure travellers and nature lovers, the property - which islocated 2,000 metres above sea level - overlooks a dramatic gorge with views of the Hajar Mountains and offers 78 suites andvillas. Scott Dunn offers four nights at the hotel from £1,590 per person based on two sharing a Mountain Room on ahalf-board basis, including private transfers and flights with Oman Air. For details see www.scottdunn.com or call 020-8682 5075. For more information on the property see www.alilahotels.com/jabalakhdar

VIRGIN HOLIDAYS has added two newluxury hotels in Dubai, the WaldorfAstoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah and theSofitel Dubai The Palm Resort & Spa.

The company's worldwide productdevelopment executive for the Middleand Far East, Caron Streeter, said:"The Waldorf Astoria Dubai PalmJumeirah offers its own unique blendof contemporary luxury, exceptionalamenities and unparalleled service.With world-class facilities, includingtwo temperature-controlledswimming pools to lounge by, aprivate stretch of pristine beach and

watersports in abundance, the five-star property also offers a tempingspa treatment menu and a range ofdining options.

"Meanwhile, Sofitel Dubai The PalmResort & Spa is a Polynesian-styleresort and offers three swimmingpools, its own private stretch of beach,a kids' club and the option to upgradeto a suite with 24-hour butler service."

A three-night stay at the Waldorfproperty leads in at £799 per personincluding scheduled flights withEmirates from Heathrow, half-boardaccommodation and transfers. The

price is based on two adults sharingfor a June 5 departure and includesall applicable taxes and fuelsurcharges.

A three-night stay at the Sofitelproperty, including scheduledEmirates flights from Heathrow,breakfast accommodation andtransfers costs from £765. It is basedon two sharing for a June 5 departureand includes all applicable taxes andfuel surcharges. For further information or to book seewww.virginholidays.co.uk or call 0844-557 3859.

New eight-dayIsrael option

from Titan TITAN HAS introduced'Israel -Discover thePromised Land', an eight-day tour that follows in thefootsteps of Christ inBethlehem, Nazareth,Jerusalem, Capernaumand Galilee.

Guests will learn thestory of the heroic, ill-fated ‘last stand’ atMasada and visit historicalmonuments such as theRoman-era HerodianMansions and the YadVashem, a memorial to thevictims of the Holocaust.

Prices lead in at £1,499,offering savings of up to£150 per person, andinclude excursions andhalf-board accommodationin high quality hotelsthroughout.For more information visitwww.titanagents.co.uk orcall 0800-988 5166.

EMIRATES HAS launched anapp for iPad which is nowavailable from the App Store.The new addition allowsusers to select seats andmeals; manage theirfrequent flyer accounts;check-in online; downloadtheir boarding pass; trackthe exact position of flightson the ‘Live Flights’ map;and access informationabout the airline’s exclusivelounges (First and BusinessClass passengers only).Personal flight details andproduct and serviceinformation is stored in theapp so that users can viewthe details offline.

Dubai property additions from Virgin with prices from £765 for three nights

UNDISCOVERED DESTINATIONS is currently offering a discount of £395 per person on its 'Iran –Treasures of Ancient Persia' tour, which departs in March next year.

The 15-day escorted group tour visits the cities of Shiraz and Isfahan, home to some of themost unique Islamic architecture, as well as the desert city of Yazd, a centre of the ancientZoroastrian faith. Guests will stay in small villages and camp with nomads to experiencetraditional Iranian hospitality, and spend the night in a carefully restored caravanserai.

The usual price of the tour is £2,145 per person based on a twin/double share with breakfastand some lunches/dinners (excluding flights). A single supplement is applicable of £350 and thecompany limits the number of people on the tour to 12.

A departure, starting in Tehran on March 28, currently leads in at £1,750, offering a saving of£395 per person and the offer is valid for bookings made by June 30, subject to availability.For more information see www.undiscovered-destinations.com or call 0191-296 2674.

Discounts on Iran tour from Undiscovered Destinations

middleeast


Cunard's Queen Elizabethreturns to Abu DhabiCUNARD’S QUEEN Elizabeth,which is the latest ship to benamed after the current monarch,spent a day in Abu Dhabi’s ZayedPort last month as part of her2014 World Cruise.

The ship will return to theUAE’s capital next April to join theline’s flagship Queen Mary 2 asone of two scheduled ports of callfor the line’s 2015 world cruiseprogrammes celebrating its 175thanniversary.

TCA Abu Dhabi recently starteda destination promotion at CruiseShipping Miami with ADPC, Dubaiand Oman partners to encouragemore cruise lines to consider AbuDhabi as a home port andseasonal call destination inArabian Gulf itineraries for their2015/16 winter cruise season. Theemirate is also developing plansfor a permanent cruise terminal atZayed Port and a stopover ‘DesertIsland’ beach experience in itsWestern Region, both expected tofeature in cruise itineraries for the2015/16 season.

We asked our staff thefollowing question this week:

When was the last timeyou wrote a letter tosomeone on paper?

Publisher: Jeanette [email protected] wrote to the Cub Scouts leader confirming my son's placeat Cub Camp

Editor: Lauretta [email protected] really a letter but a get well soon note & card to my 92-year old neighbour!

Assistant Editor: Jill [email protected]

Contributing Editor: Paul [email protected] month ago to accompany a birthday card to a chum. Andused a proper fountain pen!

Sales Director: Simon [email protected] week

Advertisement Manager: Tim [email protected] the British Embassy begging for visas to come to the UK

Online Sales Manager: Nick [email protected] 'Thank You' letters count?

Account Manager: Bill [email protected]'t really remember - it could of been when I applied formy first job!

Sales Executive: Chris [email protected] can't right.

Sales Executive: Matt [email protected] love letter to Simon XOXO

Senior Designer: Genaro [email protected]

Assistant Designer: Nicky [email protected] Genaro telling him he is the greatest of all time!

Production: Erica Sesay [email protected] School

Circulation Manager: Jim [email protected]

Crossword:Across: 1. PULLMAN, 5. TUI, 7. MANOS, 8. ELBOW, 9. IRAN, 10. ARAN, 13. IXIA, 15. CHAD, 18. CHINA, 19. KAVOS,20. GOA, 21. ESTONIA.Down: 1. POMPEII, 2. LANAI, 3. MUSCAT, 4. NOEL, 5. TABER, 6. IOW, 11. NICOSIA, 12. PHUKET, 14. IBIZA, 16.DEVON, 17. MALE, 18. CDG.

Highlighted Word: LONDON

Travagrams: (top) Toulouse (bottom) Marriott

Where Am I?: Avignon

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: Wyndeham Grange LimitedSubscriptions are £125 p.a. £195 overseasISSN: 0956-2419

Follow us on Twitter!@TravelBulletin

On The Go issues Middle East & Morocco brochureON THE Go Tours has released its 2014/15 Middle East & Morocco brochurefeaturing a selection of group tours, family holidays, festive departures andtailor-made inspiration for Egypt, Jordan, Israel and Morocco.

All tours are led by local English-speaking guides and take in key highlights,as well as off-the-beaten track experiences.

As examples, an eight-day Totally Jordan itinerary combines the Roman ruinsof Jerash, lost city of Petra, desert of Wadi Rum, biblical site of Mt Nebo and theDead Sea, with weekly departures leading in at £849 per person.

Alternatively, a six-day Israel Explorer uncovers the highlights of ancientIsrael, from the lively 'white city' of Tel Aviv and Old Jaffa, to Jerusalem, theinspirational Holy Land and buoyant Dead Sea, with monthly departures from£999. For more information see www.onthegotours.com

JUSTIN TIMBERLAKE will beperforming at the du Arena on YasIsland in Abu Dhabi as part of his globaltour. The Yas Viceroy Abu Dhabi isoffering a two-night Justin Timberlakeconcert package from £374 per room,based on two sharing, includingbreakfast, a ticket to the concert on May23 and transfers to Yas Beach, YasWaterworld, Ferrari World and otherattractions on Yas Island. For details seewww.viceroyhotelsandresorts.com

middleeast


travel bulletin 9th may 2014

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