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20080909 www.travelmemo.co.nz
Travel
Do I have news for you! Issue 8.34T
Tuesday09SEP08
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IN THIS ISSUE:
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Page 1
Franz Josef Forest Hotel Progress
New Coromandel Shuttle Service
NZ Tops UK Poll
Ziptrek, Skyline Negotiating
Feilding’s Steam Week
Hauraki Rail Trail Closer
Intrepid Heads Outback
Port Douglas Water Worry
Anthology Offers Experiences
Hyatt Coolum Quiz Offer
New Pac Island Longterm Fares
Cook Dengue Update
Pacific Blue Eyes Papua-NG
New Ferry for New Caledonia
Change of Plan for Rarotonga Hilton
No Flights to Christmas Island
Save 40% of CCC Fiji Cruises
Facelift for NAN Tabua Lounge
Fiji Specials from Hogans
Norfolk Is and All That Jazz
Record Month for Bali
Thai Poll Shows Tourists Unfazed
Silk Road Escorted
Novotel for Ha Long Bay, Vietnam
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Contiki Breaks Mould in Asia
Hands-on Cooking in Japan
Copacabana Palace
Free HNL Stopover Offer Extended
US$12m Boost for Hawaii Tourism
New Dubai Terminal for Emirates
Volunteer Tours
Uniworld Cruises from Paris
Turkey Sets Big Targets
Kumuka Europe 08-10 Brochure
Club Med Redesigns Site
Virgin Launches Own BSP
AR Renationalisation
Tasman Fares: Game On
CO Charges for Bags
Boeing Strike Implications
Emirates A380 Developments
QM2 to Visit Bay of Islands
Innovative Cruise Savings
US$20m Spend on HAL Ships
Accor Launches MGallery
Opera Package
Virgin (Pac?) Blue to Bali
China Olympic Visitor Stats
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This Friday’sFrench Travel Workshop
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20080909 www.travelmemo.co.nzPage 2
NEW ZEALAND
New Zealand Tops Poll in UKNew Zealand has been voted the number onedestination by UK readers of Condé NastTraveller. This is the 5th year in a row that NewZealand has been ranked in the top five favouritesby the publication’s readers. New Zealand, with a total satisfaction score of95.11%, was also listed third overall in the ‘Top100’ section of the 2008 Awards which includecities, airports, hotels, cruise lines and othersectors within the tourism industry.
Te Waonui Forest Retreat ProgressConstruction is well underway and on schedulefor a MAY09 opening of Scenic Circle’s first five-star hotel, the $24 million Te Waonui ForestRetreat at Franz Josef. The first stage has beenfully framed, the roofing completed and work isabout to start on cladding the hotel.Te Waonui, the West Coast’s first five star hotel,has been designed to blend into the surrounding
bush and will fill a gap in the region’saccommodation sector.Scenic Circle Hotels managing director, BrendanTaylor, says Te Waonui (which means the greatforest) is a special project for the group, whichalready operates other hotels at Franz Josef and FoxGlacier. Inbound operators have welcomed thedevelopment.
Te Waonui has been designed to meld into the surrounding native bush. It features predominatelysustainable building materials and makes concession to the abundant West Coast rain with large roofs
and massive shelter in the outdoor spaces. Artist’s impression.
Accessing CoromandelThe operators of Pacific Harbour Lodge in Tairuahave taken the initiative to launch the Tairua BusCompany, and are now offering regular dailyshuttle services connecting Tairua to Thames,Hikuai, Kopu, Hahei, Whitianga, Auckland(including AKL airport) and Tauranga. They areaffiliated with Naked Bus and also specialise inadventure tours, group charter requirements, urbantransport and accommodation ranging from backpacker style to luxury lodge resorts.
You may not lose your head but you will lose your heartat this year’s French Travel Workshop.
There will be more than 30 exhibitors coming from Franceand the best local wholesalers and GSA’s.
Every travel agent attending will receivea unique bottle of Champagne “Veuve Cliquot”
and may WIN A TRIP FOR TWO TO PARIS!
AUCKLANDHyatt Regency - 12th September 2008
10.00 am - 1.00 pm
EXPECT A ROYAL TREATMENTAT THE 2008 FRENCH TRAVEL WORKSHOP
Free registration online athttp://au.franceguide.com/workshop
or by email [email protected]
For any enquiries: +61-2 9231 5243
20080909 www.travelmemo.co.nzPage 3
0508 - 687 836 [email protected]
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Mini Getaways &Short Breaks for Kiwis
Ziptrek, Skyline NegotiatingTwo companies, Ziptrek and SkylineEnterprises, are vying to lease prime reserveland at the top of the gondola on the resorttown’s Ben Lomond Hill.Ziptrek told a resource consent hearing lastweek that it planned to run a skywire flying-fox tourist activity, while Skyline, which ownsthe gondola operation, has objected to theZiptrek application and submitted a counter-application for some of the same land.The commissioner has adjourned the hearinguntil 24SEP to allow the parties more time tosee if they can negotiate a compromise andcome to an agreement.
Skyline Enterprises has posted a record
after-tax profit of $25.1 million ahead of its
general meeting this
month.
Chairman Barry Thomas
says the company
continues to profit from
growing tourist
numbers despite a
decline in the Japanese
and US market.
It has been offset, in
part, by a growth in
Australian business.
Hauraki Rail Trail CloserTourism Coromandel reports that stage oneof a proposed Hauraki Rail Trail is one stepcloser to reality. A group of relevantorganisations have been working for severalyears now to create a walking and cyclingtrail along the old rail corridor from Thamesto Te Aroha and Waihi to Paeroa. The trailis a similar concept to the highly successfulCentral Otago Rail trail.It seems the rail corridor betweenKarangahake and Paeroa is now in the handsof DoC due to a transfer in title betweengovernment departments, and the Trust isin negotiation with DoC to create a 5.7kmwalking and cycling track from Paeroathrough to the Karangahake Hall.It would link with the walking trail throughthe spectacular Karangahake Gorge (above)to Waikino and, from there, the vintage trainexcursions to Waihi.
Worldwide Interest inFeilding’s Steam Week
According to a report in the ManawatuStandard, there have been hundreds ofenquiries from around the world seekinginformation and bookings for Feilding’splanned Steam Week 23-26OCT. It quotesFeilding Promotion manager Helen Warboysas saying that bookings from overseas startedback in April.Steam Week is the region’s Labour Weekendcontribution to celebrations associated with thecentenary of the main trunk railway line, andMainline Steam, Steam Incorporated, PahiatuaRailcar Society, Feilding and District SteamRail Society and Feilding Promotion Inc havejoined forces to co-ordinate various trainexcursions in the lower North Island.There is also a support programme ofManawatu regional attractions, events, toursand special community activities, mostly withheritage themes.
AUSTRALIA
Intrepid Travel heads OutbackWhile Intrepid is a global company, its rootsare firmly in Australia. It has now launched13 new Aussie adventures, including treksthrough the Red Centre, turtle rescues in thetropical north, encounters with ancient rock artand plenty of time to get to know the people ofthe outback.Intrepid NZ general manager Alison Mead saysthe company believes it is timely to fullyintroduce their style of travel to this market.“With such a unique and awe-inspiringdestination on our doorstep, intrepidexperiences are entirely possible closer tohome.”To launch the new adventures Intrepid isoffering your clients an A$150 Visa card if youbook them on an Intrepid Australian adventurebefore 31OCT08. Intrepid have an agents’incentive too: All agents will receive a NZ$25Booksellers Token per booking.
Water Problems in Port DouglasPort Douglas and the Daintree are reportedlyin the grip of a health scare with officialslast week revealing the region has acontaminated water supply, and residentsand visitors are being urged to boil drinkingwater or buy bottled water.Medical experts found unacceptably highlevels of E. coli bacteria in seven of theregion’s 13 water reservoirs and warned itposed a risk to human health. It could taketwo weeks to fix the problem.
20080909 www.travelmemo.co.nzPage 4
The Spa at Hyatt Regency CoolumHyatt Regency Coolum is proud to
announce the re-opening of The Spa,
following a four-month, A$4.2 million
refurbishment.
18 treatment rooms, most with outdoor
courtyards, are complemented by
dedicated indoor and outdoor
relaxation areas, an outdoor unisex
spa, manicure, pedicure and hair
stations, and lavish men’s and ladies’
lounges with a steam room, sauna,
relaxation lounge and outside access to
the pools.
A new mezzanine-level gym features
the latest fitness equipment, plasma
TVs and weight stations, plus a
combined 25m lap pool and separate
aquacise pool provide a complete
health and fitness component at The Spa.
Australia’s Leading Golf ResortWorld Travel Awards 2008
Best Australian Golf ResortLuxury Travel Magazine Gold List 2008
www.coolum.regency.hyatt.com
Call your wholesaler for rates
Anthology, the Travellers’ CollectionFormer Voyages CEO Grant Hunt, with privateequity fund backing, has launched what hehopes will become one of the world’s finestexperiential travel brands.Called Anthology, the company has so farpurchased four experiential destinations –Tasmania’s Bay of Fires and Cradle MountainHuts Walks and the historic Quamby Estate,plus the Wilpena Pound Resort in SouthAustralia’s Flinders Ranges.The goal is to build a portfolio catering to thegrowing demand for premium qualityexperiential tourism with Hunt expecting togrow Anthology to as many as 12 distinctiveAustralian experiences.“Each experience will have its own personalityand style and will leave an indelible memoryin the traveller’s mind,” Hunt explained. “Wewant to offer our guests the opportunity toimmerse themselves in nature and heritage inrare and interesting locations.”Bay of Fires Lodge – previously open onlyfrom OCT-MAY when the walk operates, willopen year round for the first time, catering forspecial events, corporate retreats and getawaysduring autumn and winter.
Built in the 1830s the magnificent Quambyheritage homestead (above) will now becomea luxurious option for guests to the local areaas well as for walkers choosing to stay pre- orpost the Cradle Mountain Huts and Bay of FiresWalks. Five rooms will be available from OCTwith additional rooms coming on linethroughout the summer. The goal is to developa total of 30 rooms. Hunt would like it to sitalongside other iconic lodges of the worldwhen the work is completed.Plans for the Wilpena Pound resort in theFlinders Ranges are currently being developedbut will include an immediate refurbishmentof all rooms and an upgrade of public areas.The new company will be chaired by OrionExpedition Cruises founder and managingdirector, Sarina Bratton.
Hyatt Coolum QuizOver the next five issues of TravelMemo,readers will have the chance to win a superbparcel of CARITA products to the value of$425, just by emailing their answer to aquestion about the Hyatt Coolum and its Spa.The CARITA products, which are exclusive inQueensland spas to the Hyatt Coolum, as itssignature face, body and hair product.
de beaute’ – ultra nourishing dry oil, a samplepack of ‘age prevention for sensitive skin’ –milky water cleanser, cotton mask and cottoncream, plus a sample ‘anti-wrinkle pack’ – withintense smooth out cream and intense smoothout micro peel, along with a glass aromatherapybottle with bamboo sticks, including thesignature scent lemon myrtle oil. See Quiz question #1 on page 5.The prize includes a 100ml bottle of ‘Fluide
20080909 www.travelmemo.co.nzPage 5
Win with The Spaat
Hyatt Regency Coolum
Email [email protected]
and put your answer in the Subject line.
All correct entries received by 24SEP08
go into the Lucky Draw announced 26SEP.
THE PRIZE: A range
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used at The Spa.
Valued at$425, they
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de beaute, plus age
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The Spa at Hyatt Regency Coolumis the only spa in Queensland
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QUIZ QUESTION #1The Hyatt Regency Coolum is
located in which Australian state?
SOUTH PACIFIC
New Longterm Fares toSamoa, Rarotonga & Tonga
Air New Zealand has released new long-termfares ex AKL, WLG and CHC to Samoa,Rarotonga and Tonga.Their new lead-in levels have reduced asfollows:- AKLRAR was $330, now $296 one way viaCRS ($286 ow via internet) plus airport & govtcosts $29- AKLTBU was $202, now $186 one way viaCRS ($176 ow via internet) plus airport & govtcosts $29- AKLAPW was $317, now $286 one way viaCRS ($276 ow via internet) plus airport & govtcosts $29.There are also reductions to all Smart Saverfares, as well as some Flexi Saver and Flexifares and the addition of a new ‘M’ class Flexifare to Rarotonga.The new fares are available for sale untilfurther notice for travel from 14OCT08.
Change of Plan for Raro HiltonThe partly built resort property at Vaimaangathat was initially to be a Sheraton and is nowbeing promoted as the future Hilton Rarotonga,continues to sit unfinished.The Cook Islands Times Online reports that thelandowner, Pa Marie Ariki, says she has metwith a Strategic Finance executive and alsowith the venture’s joint venture partner DanMcEwan to discuss a new concept thedevelopers are proposing in order to completethe project.The other JVCI joint venture partner, propertydeveloper Tim Tepaki, who is currentlyembroiled in several court actions and financialproblems with his local and NZ companies, wasapparently not present at the meeting. He isreportedly taking a step back from the projectcommittee.CI News Online says that earlier this year PaAriki told the developers she would not agreeto a staged development proposal. At the time,Tepaki said that because they needed to sellmore of the unit titles to the property first, hewanted to complete the apartment block firstand the rest of the hotel later. He also wantedto build luxury studio and villas along the frontof the site.Tepaki claimed $25 million in unit titles hadbeen sold on the property but the target was$50 million to be able to start construction.
New Ferry for New CaledoniaA 57-metre aluminium fast catamaran has beenlaunched in the Philippines. The $22 millionBETICO 2 has space for 356 passengers andten vehicles and has been built to connect theislands of New Caledonia. It replaces BETICO,a 1998-built vessel, and will ply the sameroutes, sailing between Noumea to the outlyingislands of Iles des Pins, Mare, Lifou and Ouvea.
Pacific Blue Eyes Papua-NGPacific Blue has submitted an application withAustralian authorities seeking a 5-year rightto fly to Papua New Guinea from Brisbane. Itis asking for approval to operate up to 900 seatsper week to Port Moresby, a major challengeto Air Niugini’s dominance on the high-yieldroute.Pacific Blue proposes to commence B737-800services between BNE and POM with a 4pwfrequency from NOV08, lifting to 5pw beforeNOV09.The airline has also requested approval tooperate 180 extra seats per week to Tonga, and360 extra seats to Fiji.
Cooks Dengue Update
TO GET YOUR OWN FREE SUBSCRIPTION
visit www.travelmemo.co.nz
The Jean Michel Cousteau Resort in Savusavu is paying to charter domestic flights to
get guests to the property because Air Fiji is still grounded, the Fiji Times reports.
The Cook Islands Te Marae Ora Ministry ofHealth has received the results of thelaboratory tests for Dengue which wereundertaken in Australia, on a selection of six(6) suspected Dengue cases.Only one case has been confirmed forDengue Type 4. This particular case recently
returned from Samoa. These results confirmthat there has been no spread of Dengue tothe local population in the Cook Islands.The Ministry has congratulated thecollaborative effort of the variousstakeholder agencies and the community forsupporting the clean up campaign.
20080909 www.travelmemo.co.nz
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No Flights for Christmas IslandThe Fiji Times says Air Pacific is suspending its flights toChristmas Island, the island’s only air service, because of adeteriorating runway which the company believes maycompromise the safety of its passengers. The decision was madeafter FJ operational personnel and specialist runway engineersfrom New Zealand had inspected the runway. Flights willrecommence once the Kiribati Government has carried outresurfacing.Radio NZ International quotes the Kiribati Permanent Secretaryfor Communications and Transport as saying the government’spriority is to conduct its own study on the runway. He also saidthey are now looking at other airlines which might start an interimservice.
Save 40% on all 7-night Fiji CruisesYour clients can save 40% on Captain Cook Cruises 7-nightYasawa Islands Cruises and Northern Fijian Dateline cruises.Prices start from as little as F$1875pp twin share and cruises mustbe booked before 30SEP08 and travel taken before 31MAR09.The weekly Yasawa Islands cruise departs Denarau Marina onSaturdays and Tuesdays at 2pm and returns Saturdays andTuesdays at 9am.The Northern Fijian Dateline Cruise departs Denarau Marina at2pm on Tuesdays 07OCT and 04NOV08 and returns the followingTuesday at 9am.Call your wholesaler.
Beachcomber Stay / PayBeachcomber Island Resort has a Stay 5 / Pay 3 deal pricedfrom NZ$439pp share twin for a 5-night Lodge stay, withall meals included. (Lodge & Bures only applicable to thisspecial). Sales to 31OCT08 and travel to 31MAR09. Thereare closeouts 29NOV-20DEC08 & 31DEC08-31JAN09)Call your wholesaler.
Fiji Family SafariMusket Cove Island Resort has a Fiji Family Safari offerpriced at NZ$889 per adult, with children under 16 free. Itincludes: 5 nights accommodation in a Garden Bure for twoadults & two children, return Malolo Cat transfers to/fromthe island for family of four, a theme dinner on one nightfor all four people, and a Dolphin & Snorkelling Safari forall four people.Travel to 31MAR09, with closeout 20DEC08/05JAN09.
New Look for Tabua Club LoungeAir Pacific’s Tabua Club lounge at the Nadi International Airportis undergoing a F$300,000 makeover and will be closed for aroundfive weeks. Alternative arrangements have been made for FJ paxwho qualify for lounge access to use the Rosie Tours or the tourmanager’s lounges adjacent to the Tabua lounge.Among the planned enhancements being installed are a privatebusiness area with wireless internet; a TV viewing area withplasma screen; new bathrooms plus disabled traveller toilet andshower; big new buffet area; and new furniture.
Norfolk Island and All That JazzIt’s almost time for your clients to dust off their Miles Davisrecords and don the black threads for Norfolk Island’s seventhJazz in the Pines Festival this December.Twenty-two performers - the crème de la crème of Australasia’sjazz artists - will descend upon the sub-tropical paradise for afive-day ‘sax fest,’ in concerts 07-14DEC at a variety of beautyspots.Among the artists is Kiwi singer Malcolm McNeill, who isteaming up with the Mike Walker Trio and Sydney-based jazzsoloist, Jo Elms. Call your wholesaler.
Stay 6 Pay 3 at Crusoe’s RetreatFiji’s Crusoe’s Retreat has a Stay / Pay priced from NZ$450ppshare twin in a Seaview Bure for a 6-night stay. The rate includesbuffet & cooked breakfast daily, afternoon tea daily, manycomplimentary resort activities plus return transfers from Nadi.Sales to 30SEP08 and travel to 31MAR09. Call your wholesaler.
ASIA
Sonaisali All-Meal OCT SpecialFiji’s Sonaisali Resort has an OCT08 Special which includes allmeals. Priced from NZ$849pp share twin for a 6-night stay basedon Beachfront Hotel Room, the deal includes: full buffet breakfastdaily, a two-course lunch & three-course or theme dinner.Your clients must either check out on 21OCT or check in on25OCT08. Your wholesaler has the details.
Record Month for BaliForeign tourist arrivals to Bali for the month of JUL08 exceeded183,000 making it the best July ever, improving 11% over lastyear’s record-breaking performance.BaliDiscovery.com says that, on a year-to-date basis, JAN-JULarrivals for 2008 are up 22% and have broken the million visitorbarrier. Bali’s top markets are Japan, Australia, Taiwan, SouthKorea and China.
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20080909 www.travelmemo.co.nzPage 7
Thai Poll Shows Tourists UnfazedThe protests against the Thai PrimeMinister have now been under way fora fortnight and the Bangkok Post reportsthat more than half of the foreignersquestioned in a poll last week think theconflict is not unusual and just part ofthe democratic process.The poll director said in the eyes offoreigners the political turmoil did notspoil the other good aspects of thecountry. Noppadon Kannikar said therespondents considered the country waslargely peaceful, with only a few pocketsof political violence in Bangkok. Mostforeigners had been exposed to moreviolent incidents in other countries andbelieved the political conflict in Thailandwould eventually come to a peacefulend.Assumption University of Thailandconducted a survey 02-05SEP andquestioned 532 foreign businessmen,investors and tourists.According to the paper, they were askedto evaluate their level of satisfaction withvarious aspects of the country.On a scale of 10, satisfaction with thepolitical situation was rated at 4.96,while satisfaction with the economyscored 5.91. Social justice rated 5.57.However, foreigners said they still had ahigh level of satisfaction with Thai people
and tourist attractions (7.43).They said Thailand was a safe place(7.32) and gave the thumbs up to theefficiency of the immigration service(7.25).When asked whether they would visitThailand again, 97% said they wouldreturn. Almost 99% said they would alsopersuade their friends to visit Thailand.The state of emergency announced byThai Prime Minister Samak Sundaravejlast Tuesday followed clashes amongprotesters in Bangkok and temporarydisruption at regional airports, includingPhuket.The decree does not involve a curfew orany other measures restricting themovement of people around Bangkok orthe Kingdom.The Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs saysthe decree is a “temporary measure”applicable only in Bangkok and that “theGovernment will continue to exerciseutmost restraint”.The current protests are limited to theimmediate area around GovernmentHouse in Bangkok. Visitors to Bangkokshould avoid this area.Footnote: Yesterday’s online edition ofThe Nation showed two Kiwi tourists onbikes buying souvenir t-shirts outside thegates of the besieged Government Housein Bangkok.(8.20), Thai food (8.16), Thai culture (8.12)
The president of China Eastern Airlines said the nation’s third largest carrier
was considering a merger with Shanghai Airlines but still eyeing a tie-up
with Singapore Airlines, according to a report in the Dow Jones Newswires.
Silk Road EscortedWorld Journeys’ new Escorted Journeysbrochure features a Silk Road itinerary inMAR09 which follows the ancient tradingroute from Delhi to Tashkent, Khiva,Bukhara, Samarkand, Bishkek, Karokol,Kashgar, Urumqi, the Turpan Oasis andDunhuang, ending in Xi’an.Chris Lyons is leading the tour, and says“Having travelled this route several times,I can highly recommend it for its stunningmountain and desert scenery, friendlypeople, and fascinating cultures.”Priced from NZ$12,595pp share twin, thisincludes return airfares ex AKL/WLG/CHC, transfers, 4-star (or best available)accommodation, most meals, sightseeingand entrance fees. Airport departure taxes(currently $539pp), tipping and visa fees,are additional. Contact World Journeys.
Novotel for Ha Long BayAccor is to open a Novotel at Vietnam’sHa Long Bay, on 01OCT. The 214-roomNovotel Ha Long Bay overlooks theUNESCO-listed World Heritage-protected waters, and offers stunningviews out to the thousands of limestoneislands jutting from the sea.Two special launch offers are valid to31DEC08. Opening rates start fromUS$110++ per room per night, inclusiveof buffet breakfast. A Stay & Cruisepackage that includes a four-hour cruiseon the Bay is available from US$145++for two, also including breakfast and a freein-room drink so that guests can make themost of their private balcony views.
20080909 www.travelmemo.co.nz
Contiki has broken the traditional Asianholiday mould with the introduction of abrand new touring program featuringseven itineraries including Vietnam,Thailand, Laos and Cambodia.Available for booking now and for travelfrom MAR09, the new program rangesfrom a 10-day Vietnam Highlights to a28-day Big Indochina Adventure, whichvisits all four countries. Also availableis a five-day Cambodia add-on packagecovering Phnom Penh, Siem Reap andthe amazing Angkor Wat.Tony Laskey, general manager, ContikiHolidays (NZ) says “I’m pleased to bepart of the next stage of Contiki’sevolution with its expansion into Asiantouring. As an escorted holiday expert,Contiki has long offered young travellersexcellent holiday experiences in Europeand North America. We have a provenformula and are now applying it to theseexotic destinations giving youngexplorers an authentic and unique wayto experience this exciting region withother like minded travellers.”Contiki’s new Asia program featuresquality three star accommodation as wellas innovative options such as guesthouses in Luang Prabang, stilt houses inSapa, a junk boat cruise in Halong Bayand an amazing home-stay in centralVietnam.For a truly authentic Asian experienceeach itinerary features unique transportmodes including tuk-tuks through Laos,overnight train in Thailand, wooden
Contiki Breaks the Mould in Asiaboats on the Mekong, dragon boat in Hue,pedal power in Cambodia, flights andmuch more.Tony Laskey continues, “We are offeringflexible itineraries with a mix of includedsightseeing that covers off all the thingsthat are key to the destinations, plus abroad range of optional extras so clientscan choose their own type of adventure.“Another important feature of the newAsia program is plenty of free time toseek out their own experiences. Someof the optionals we are offering includeThai and Vietnamese cooking classes; acycle trip through the Forbidden city inHue; river tubing in Vang Vieng; visitsto local hill tribes in Chiang Rai andSapa; the opportunity to get up close tonature at a park which is home to rescuedelephants; a bamboo row boat trip todiscover water tunnels and coral reefs; avisit to therapeutic mud baths and mineralshowers and a good luck blessing byCambodian Buddhist monks to name a few.“Asia has some of the best food in theworld and we’ve applied the sameconcept to our meals. All breakfasts andsome lunches and dinners are included,however we have left many free so clientshave the opportunity to explore forthemselves. They may choose to enjoya BBQ on the riverside of LuangPrabang; fresh stir-fry and noodles fromcountless local restaurants; perhapsindulge in famous chocolate pancakes inVang Vieng or, for the more adventurous,
Tarantula is a speciality.“Another major difference of our newAsia program is that clients can getinvolved in community projects whilst ontheir holiday. Really adding to theirunique experience, they can choose to eatin restaurants run by rescued streetchildren, buy fair trade crafts or evenwork alongside local villagers on avegetable farm.“We will be operating the perfect sizegroup of around 25 passengers; smallenough for an intimate and Asianadventure, but big enough to meet adiverse group of fellow travellers”.All Asian itineraries feature anexperienced and knowledgeable tourmanager plus local English-speakingguides in each city to really give clientsan understanding of the unique localcultures.To celebrate the launch of the newContiki Asia product Contiki NZ isrunning an incentive for the travelconsultant selling the most Contiki Asiatours between 08SEP08 and the31MAR09. To qualify for the incentivethe consultant must be in the 18-35Contiki age bracket and sell a minimumof five Contiki Asia tours. The winnerwill receive a free Vietnam Highlightstour (land only) valued at $1725.The brand new Asia brochure is onshelves now. Included with the brochureshipment is a flyer detailing two greatdeals for clients booking Contiki Asia.www.contiki.co.nz/asiathere is always the local markets where
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20080909 www.travelmemo.co.nzPage 9
Represented in New Zealand by Discover the World MarketingT : 09-623 4293 DX : EP82525 E : [email protected]
GDS Code: HY
Every eligible dollar spent at Hyattearns valuable Hyatt Gold Passport points
Hyatt Hotels & ResortsNorth America & The Caribbean
A new kind of hotel for today’s relaxed lifestyle. Complimentary
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Freshly-prepared snacks and entrees served 24/7 in the Guest
Kitchen along with a daily complimentary continental breakfast.
A fitness centre and e-room are open 24/7.
ACCESS. RELAXATION. RECOGNITION.
AMERICASHands-On Cooking– Japanese Style
Travel Japan by H.I.S. can offer averitable menu of ‘experiential’hands-on cooking activities with therelease of a new round of short daytours guaranteed to lift the lid on thesecrets of traditional Japanese cuisine.A wide choice of programs rangesfrom learning how to make your ownSushi to discovering what it takes toproduce the perfect ‘Soba’ buckwheatnoodle.Participants can also elect to spend anafternoon with a Japanese housewife,joining her on a shopping trip to alocal market before returning home toprepare and enjoy lunch andexperience a traditional tea ceremony.There is even a opportunity to spendthe best part of a day in an exclusive,reservations-only Japanese restaurant,the Michelin-rated ‘Hifumi’, learningboth the culture behind Japanesecuisine and how to prepare traditionaldishes first-hand under the watchfultutelage of high-profile master chef,Takamitsu Aihara.The six-hour session also includes alesson in proper Japanese tablemanners and food appreciation.The ‘Hifumi’ master class is pricedfrom NZ$432* per person.Call Travel Japan by H.I.S. on 09-3361336 or email [email protected]*Conditions apply. Please note prices do not
include international airfares.
Free HNL Stopover OfferExtended
Air New Zealand has extended its offerof a free stopover in Honolulu on long-term Pacific Economy fares to LAX/SFO(_AM1Y/_AMOW) for sales/ticketinguntil 30SEP08. A free stopover inHonolulu (normally $200 per stop) isavailable in the northbound direction onlywhen travel is commenced between01SEP-30NOV08 and 01JAN-28FEB09.The long-term wholesale fare will alsobe revised. Please contact your preferredAir New Zealand wholesaler for moredetails.Your CRS and www.airnzagent.co.nz willbe updated in due course.
Copacabana PalaceWorld Journeys Director BrettBarclay says “You can’t beat Rio’sCopacabana Palace for atmosphere.”Built in 1923, and now an Orient-Express property, the hotel featuredin Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers’movie Flying Down to Rio, and soonbecame THE place to be seen.“Imposing architecture, a legendaryPiano Bar, huge swimming pool,marble staircases, glamorous rooftopsuites and the best location right onCopacabana Beach make theproperty a must for the discerningtraveller wanting a break from blandgeneric hotels,” says Brett.Contact World Journeys for rates.
US$12m Boostfor Hawaii Tourism
With visitor arrivals down 6.6%in the first six months of thisyear, Hawaii tourism officialshave decided to pump anotherUS$12 million into marketingthe state, which already has abudgeted ad spend of US$54million.The Honolulu Advertiser reportsthat the Hawaii TourismAuthority and industry partnershave agreed to spend the extrabucks targeting US markets withdirect air services to Hawai’i.
20080909 www.travelmemo.co.nzPage 10
AFRICA / MID EAST
New Dubai Terminal for EmiratesThe phased opening of Dubai’s Terminal Three[T3], Emirates’ dedicated new airport home inDubai, begins 14OCT.In a carefully-orchestrated move, the first phaseof Emirates’ operations from T3 will launchall flights to the GCC* states and the Americas– 40 flights a day, or around 15% of the airline’stotal services. Phase Two will include flightsto the rest of the Middle East and Africa aswell, increasing operations to 99 flights everyday, 37% of all flights.Flights to Europe will comprise the next phase,escalating operations to 168 daily flights or
60% of all Emirates’ services. The fourth andfinal phase will include flights to the IndianSubcontinent, East Asia and Australia and NewZealand, bringing the total to 269 flights everyday.Each phase will commence after receiving a“clean operational chit” from the previous oneto ensure customers enjoy a smooth, seamlessEmirates experience. Trials and testing at T3continue to iron out operational creases andremove any system bugs before the softopening. The next major passenger trial isscheduled for 27SEP.
Gargantuan TerminalWith a total built-up area of 515,000sq m, thegargantuan Dubai T3 terminal has more than250 check-in counters, including 126 forEconomy Class passengers; 32 for First andBusiness; 60 self service kiosks both with andwithout baggage check-in; 10 dedicatedcounters for Skywards premium members; and18 counters for outsized baggage, located rightin the car park.
luxurious, themed lounges for its premiumpassengers in the 10-storeyed concourse , witha capacity for more than 2,000, serving thefinest international cuisine and offering full-fledged spa facilities. Lounges forunaccompanied minors and special needspassengers are specially-designed to take thestress off travel. The duty free and retailshopping meanders a course of 15,500sq m,and the terminal has five dedicated A380 gates.Emirates has designed an entire floor of
EUROPE
Helping a Local South African CommunityBack in July, 11 G.A.P. Adventures travellersparticipated on the Project Southern Africa tourwhere they volunteered at the Shalaticommunity pre-school. During their stay, thegroup assisted by removing the leaky ceilingand cleaning the roof which was infested withbats. Others painted a mural on the building,assisted the teachers, played educational gameswith the children and helped replace the
entrance to the toilets. In their free time theyenjoyed interacting with the children and tookexcursions in the nearby Manyeleti GameReserve. In the past year Planeterra and G.A.PAdventures travellers have raised $1900 forthis project, with future money going towardsreplacing the roof of the school.Call Adventure World on 09-524 5118 and askthem about Volunteer tours around the world.
Uniworld Cruises from ParisUniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection opens a newseason of voyages from Paris with three cruises aboardthe River Princess.The three new Paris itineraries are an 11-day “Parisand European River Romance,” which sails toNuremberg; the 18-day “Paris and the Heart of Europe”cruise to Vienna and the 32-day “Paris and GrandEuropean Waterways” cruises to Bucharest.
The number of tourists from Russia, Poland,Romania and Bulgaria to visit Greece in 2008 willreach over 1 million, according to Greek mediareports. Russian tourist numbers alone haveincreased 40% this year.
Turkey Sets Big TargetsThe Turkish Tourism Ministry and the private sectorwill contribute an advertising budget of US$320 millionto strengthen Turkey’s tourism sector and expand tonew markets. The advertising activity also aims toexpand Turkey’s tourism season to year round.According to Ekonomist, Turkey aims to attract 25million tourists and receive $25 billion in tourismrevenue in 2008. The new promotional activities target60 million visitors by 2012 and tourism revenue ofUS$50 billion.
Kumuka EuropeWinter/Summer 08-
10 BrochureKumuka Worldwide has launchedits new Europe brochure for 2008-10, and Richard Gardner,managing director Australia andNew Zealand says: “One of thepoints that we’re particularlypleased about in launching thisnew brochure is that Kumuka hasmanaged to maintain our pricing inreal terms for all our coach tours,as we work to keep holidaysaffordable.”Popular features remain in the newtouring programme, including twonights at most major stops,Eurostar transfers between Londonand Paris for travellers starting orfinishing their tour in London,local guides at many majorattractions and guaranteeddepartures on the majority ofsummer coach tour departures.Kumuka offers options all yearround and continues to guaranteethe tour price will remain fixedregardless of any future currencyfluctuations.Kumuka Worldwide brochures areavailable from Travel Marketing,www.brochurenet.co.nz.Availability for the above tours andmore details can be found atwww.kumuka.com/agents or bycalling 0800 400 499.
20080909 www.travelmemo.co.nzPage 11
This Week’s Featured HyattHyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort & SpaShimmering views of the Pacific and luxurious
amenities await your clients at this stunning, Spanish-
inspired oceanfront hotel in Huntington Beach.
It delights every sense, with pampering spa treatments,
irresistible restaurants and superior service.
Guests enjoy the endless activities at the hotel resort -
including a heated pool, direct access to the beach,
surf pros, tennis, biking, Camp Hyatt and more.
Disneyland, Knott’s Berry Farm and the Aquarium are all
within easy reach of this remarkable California hotel.
Your clients can earn Hyatt Gold Passport points for every
eligible dollar spent at the Hyatt Regency Huntington
Beach Resort & Spa. www.hyatt.com
AVIATION
Club Med Redesigns its WebsiteClub Med has revamped its website insupport of its overall strategy ofrepositioning its product range towards thehigh end.The Destinations and Search section notonly enables visitors to checkavailability, but also to plan theirholidays using the multi-criteria searchtool which allows drilling down to acomparison of up to three resorts,providing a summary of facilities andservices at a glance.
on the diversity of activities for both adultsand children, while the resorts section isorganised by geographic zone, each resortpage providing detailed information onaccommodation, facilities, kids’ clubs,activities, excursions and ancillary servicesavailable.There’s a Google Earth aerial map of theresort, as well as practical travel informationsuch as weather conditions, customsformalities, what to prepare for the trip anda guide on local culture and traditions.www.clubmed.co.nzThere’s a practical activities guide focusing
Virgin Launches its Own BSPVAustralia, frustrated by IATA rules fromselling its tickets through Australian travelagents via the BSP clearing house until itgains its air operator’s certificate, has comeup with a fix.
TravelDaily, Virgin Blue has developed a‘VSP’ in conjunction with travel paymentcompany eNett, which works with theSabre, Galileo and Amadeus GDS. An adin the publication indicates the VSP willalso be offered in New Zealand.According to yesterday’s Australian
Argentina to Renationalise ARThe Argentine government is to bring thenational airline Aerolineas Argentinas andits Austral subsidiary back undergovernment control. Under new legislation,AR cannot be re-privatised.The carrier, which reportedly has debts ofUS$900 million, is up against moves byLAN Chile, which is building up its BuenosAires operations, currently serving 15destinations with a fleet of seven Airbus
A320s and two Boeing 767-300ERs.Meanwhile British Airways is preparing togo daily between LHR and BUE from26OCT.According to ATW, Aerolineas Argentinascurrently has a mixed fleet of aircraftincluding four Airbus A340s, three Boeing747s and 17 Boeing 737s, with four AirbusA320s on order. The Austral fleet consistsof 22 McDonnell MD80 series.
Tasman Fares: Game OnAir New Zealand last week further reducedits long-term lead-in fares to Australia byan average of 15%, as the first of its refittedA320 aircraft begin flying the Tasman andits competitors continued to ramp up theirown plans for the route.The latest Air NZ fare reductions areeffective for travel from 14OCT, and buildon significant price cuts announced lastmonth on some Tasman sectors.Air New Zealand GM Tasman PacificAirline Glen Sowry says: “In the currentmarket of static growth, demand must bestimulated by having better product thanyour competitors, or better pricing. TheTasman is our home market and we willcontinue to ensure that we remain marketleader by continuing to offer the bestcombination of price, product andfrequency.”Air New Zealand is determined to offer thebest value deals on the Tasman, he says.“All meals, drinks, in-flight entertainmentand baggage allowance are included in ourfare pricing, so you know exactly whatyou’re getting when you step on board.”
Crew on an Air India Airbus which hadlanded at Delhi airport after a domesticflight from Srinagar discovered a snakecoiled up under a seat. They were unableto catch it as it slithered around theplane, and it evaded capture by slippinginto an air vent and could not be foundeven when staff unscrewed panelsinside the fuselage, opened all the doorsand fumigated the plane.
CO Charging for BaggageContinental Airlines is charging some coach customersUS$15 for a first checked bag, matching a similar feeimposed by most other major U.S. carriers.The fee took effect immediately on tickets for travel inthe US and Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands andCanada for travel from 07OCT.CO says the fee does not apply to elite members of itsfrequent-flier program, those in first- or business-classseats, customers travelling on full-fare economy tickets,or military personnel and their families travelling onofficial orders.
20080909 www.travelmemo.co.nzPage 12
Boeing Strike ImplicationsBoeing’s 27,000-strong machinists union wenton strike on the weekend after last-ditch talksfailed to agree to a new labour contract by theSaturday night deadline. Boeing plants remainopen, with workers in other unions andnonunion employees expected to report, butproduction lines at its Everett and Rentonplants have halted assembly.If the strike is prolonged, it will have significantimplications for the company, its foreignsuppliers, its already-impatient B787Dreamliner customers – among others – andthe Seattle and US economies.According to ATW Online, Boeing’s 787 VPPat Shanahan has previously hinted that thecompany has little if any contingency time lefton the 787 program, and so a strike would mostlikely delay the 787’s flight test program andcould result in further delivery delays.The first 787 for launch customer All NipponAirways is due for delivery in MAY09.
Emirates’s second Airbus A380 deliveryhas been delayed due to hold-ups in thedelivery of galleys and other cabinfurnishings. The big jet is now reportedlydue to be delivered on 20OCT.
The Airbus boss has been reported assaying that they are actively consideringthe development of a stretched A380.The -900 series jet would deliver lowerseat costs than the standard 500-seatA380-800. Such a version is unlikely tobe developed any time soon because ofthe resources committed to current andfuture confirmed production of both theA380 and three versions of the A350.
CRUISING
Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) is planningdirect flights from Oslo to New York andBangkok. The airline will, however, waituntil the worldwide aviation crisis haspassed before thinking more about thenew long-distance routes.Despite it rapidly growing traffic, Osloairport currently has very littleintercontinental traffic, apart from CO’sflights to New York and PIA’s to Lahore.
Gulf News reports that the sole EmiratesA380 has been temporarily withdrawnfrom service on the Dubai-New Yorkroute for engineering work. The planewas scheduled for training use inbetween commercial flights and thereis apparently also planned engineeringwork which is taking longer to completethan expected. The plane willreportedly be “deployed on commercialservice again as soon as possible.”
Bay of Islands Call for Queen Mary 2Cunard has announced that Queen Mary 2 willmake her maiden visit to the Bay of Islands inearly 2010 as part of a world voyage programwhich will see the massive liner and heryounger sister, Queen Victoria, make five callsto New Zealand.They will both call at Auckland during theirworld voyages, with Queen Mary 2 alsovisiting the Bay of Islands while QueenVictoria will sail to Wellington andChristchurch.The full 2010 world voyages and a range ofsector voyages for both ships have opened forsale, with prices on voyages from New Zealandstarting from $5741 for a 21-night voyage fromAuckland to Cape Town.Queen Mary 2’s 2010 world voyage will seethe ocean liner visit every major continent inthe world, calling at 34 ports over 108 days asshe travels from New York to Southampton,through the Mediterranean and the Suez Canal
to the Middle East and Asia before visitingAustralia and New Zealand, South Africa andSouth America.Her visit Down Under will include an overnightcall in Sydney on 07MAR and maiden visitsto Adelaide and Fremantle.Meanwhile, Queen Victoria will make a 107-night circumnavigation, departingSouthampton for New York and the Caribbeanbefore transiting the Panama Canal to visit SanFrancisco and the islands of the Pacific.After visiting New Zealand and Australia, shewill head to Asia and the Middle East beforesailing through the Suez Canal to theMediterranean.A 49-night voyage from Auckland toSouthampton on QM2 is priced fromNZ$14,348.A 39-night voyage from Southampton toAuckland on Queen Victoria is priced fromNZ$11,854.
Innovative Cruising & SavingsInnovative Travel points out that it providesan impressive variety of cruises from rivercruises to tall ship sailing, Greek Is cruises,Turkish gulets, motor sailers in Croatia andOceanwide’s small ship expeditions inAntarctica.In conjunction with Russia & Eastern EuropeTravel Bureau, it offers a large range of VikingRiver Cruises for Europe, Russia and Chinawith a mix of first class and deluxe standardvessels. Placed on the Conde Naste Travellers“Gold List” multiple times, Viking RiverCruises is a quality option offering benefitssuch as prime berthing positions in most cities,English-only announcements on board,gourmet cuisine and a high level of comfortand services.The Grand European Tour (Amsterdam-Budapest v.v.) is one of the best sellers, saysInnovative sales & marketing manager, CarolWisker.“Right now it is definitely popular with Kiwitravellers, along with the Romantic Danube,Waterways of the Tsars (Moscow-St Petersburgv.v.) and Imperial Jewels of China, which isbound to attract more of an interest followingChina’s impressive hosting of the 2008Olympic Games,” she adds.The Viking River Cruises current earlybird dealoffers significant savings of between A$1000to A$2500 per couple when booked and payby 30SEP08. “Encourage clients to book earlyto take advantage of these fantastic earlybooking savings,” says Carol.For full info FREEPHONE 0508 100111 oremail: [email protected]
20080909 www.travelmemo.co.nzPage 13
US$200 Million Spend on HAL’s Top FiveAs part of its ongoing Signature of Excellence,Holland America Line is doubling the amountto be spent in upgrades, enhancements and newfeatures on five of the line’s most popular ships.Over the next two years, the ms Statendam, msRyndam, ms Maasdam, ms Veendam and msRotterdam will undergo extensive dry docks.The 18-month, $200 million program willbegin when Veendam enters an extended dockin spring 2009, and the last ship is slated forcompletion in late 2010.The most dramatic alteration will be to the aftportion of the ships, allowing for a new resort-style pool area on Lido deck called The Retreatwith a shallow area where guests may loungein chairs and dip their fingers and toes in thewater or relax on the bench and dangle theirlegs in the water. A new pool bar and an upscalepizzeria will be installed, as well as a canopyand wind screens to provide additional coveredseating for the Lido Restaurant.
The program also involves enhancements toseveral of the public rooms. The Casino andPiano bars will be reconfigured into a multi-themed area called Mix with three separatebars. Next door, the casino will be redesignedhighlighting the table and slot games. Thenew Showroom at Sea will offer the ambianceof a glamorous nightclub while the new SkyRoom on Sports Deck will feature the latest inmulti-generational video games and high-techentertainment.
New Look for StateroomsAll staterooms on the top five HAL shipswill receive new décor, carpeting and softgoods. Each ship also will have anadditional 44 to 46 staterooms, 32 withverandahs and the remaining will be insidestaterooms.On the four S-class ships, twelve stateroomsnear the spa (on Deck 9) also will haveverandahs added, and along with threeinside staterooms, become ‘spa staterooms’featuring a variety of enhanced spaamenities.On the Rotterdam, 23 staterooms onVerandah deck will become spa staterooms.On the five ships, 46 new lanai stateroomswill be created by replacing existingwindows of 42 staterooms (on LowerPromenade Deck 6) with lanai doors thatopen directly onto the walk-aroundpromenade, and adding four additionalstaterooms.
Orion Cruises has reportedly given awaythe idea of committing to a new-build shipin favour of looking for what other vesselsand/or companies might be a potentialacquisition. Orion founder and managingdirector Sarina Bratton told Australia’sTravelToday that the cost of building avessel was currently “exorbitant”.
The growing popularity of cruising inAsian waters has prompted the HongKong Tourism Board to join the associatemember ranks of the International CruiseCouncil Australasia.Announcing the new membership, CruiseCouncil General Manager Brett Jardinesaid Hong Kong was continuing to expandas a cruise destination, with a new cruiseterminal slated to open in 2012 and anincreasing number of cruise lines offeringholidays in the region.
Page 11
JUST CRUISING ....
Europe Cruises from $999*
Caribbean Cruises from US$249*
Panama Canal Cruises from US$1299*
Hawaii Cruises from US$1399*
Mexico Cruises from US$499*
THIS WEEK’S 5-DAY FLASH SPECIALS
Tel: 09-444 2298
Fax:09-442 4228
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FOR WEBSITECLICK HERE TO VIEW OUR NEW-LOOK WEBSITE
* plus applicable fuel supplement
CHRISTMAS CRUISING + SYDNEY FOR NEW YEARDeparting Auckland 19DEC08 Arriving Sydney 05JAN09
17 Nights from only
per person twin share in an Inside StateroomNZ$2099
ms Volendam
Upgrade to an OceanviewStateroom for an extra
$360pp
CLICK HERE FOR THE FLYER
20080909 www.travelmemo.co.nz
Accor TargetsBoutique Hotel Sector
Accor has launched MGallery, a collection ofdistinctive, high-quality upscale hotels thathave an exceptional personality through oneor more of four principal elements: Vision,Design, History and Location.The collection presently comprises eight hotels- St Moritz Queenstown, Grand HotelMelbourne, Hotel am Konzerthaus in Vienna,the Continental Hotel Zurich and Rotary inGeneva, and the Baltimore in Paris, Le RoyalHotel Lyon and Grand Hotel BeauvauMarseilles.The MGallery label enables Accor to respondto a rapidly growing group of travellers whoprefer boutique-style hotels with genuinecharacter, often a destination in their own right.A number of new MGallery hotels are expectedto be announced over the next three months.
ACCOMMODATION
Opera PackageEnjoy a night of luxury during the NBR NewZealand Opera Jenufa season. Setconveniently on Queen Street, CityLifeAuckland A Heritage Hotel, is just a stroll tothe theatre and miles from car park queues.Valet park your car for the evening at the hoteland enjoy an express pre-Opera performancedinner with a glass of wine in Zest restaurantfor just $38pp. Or make a night of it with thepre-show dinner for two, and an overnight stayin a recently refurbished deluxe suite withbreakfast and a late check out next day, for $259per couple. Opera tickets are additional.Call 0800 36 88 88 and quote Opera.
The refurbishment of a Wellington
CBD’s 192-room Duxton Hotel next year
will need 8000 square metres of new
carpet, 800 new light fittings, 720 sheets
and 960 pillows. The upgrade will make
its rooms the most contemporary of any
in Wellington. The work begins in
APR09.
The world-
f a m o u s
O r i e n t a l
Hotel in
Bangkok,
which first
opened 132
years ago,
has been
f o r m a l l y
rebranded.
It is now
known as
the Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok.
Page 14
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Copyright. No part ofthis publication may becopied, reproduced orduplicated, in whole orin part, without theprior written approvalof the Publisher.
Travel
PEARL’S PEARLER
Experience is the helpful attribute that enables us to recognise a mistake when we make it again.
The Were United Travel Newmarket teamrecently attended New Zealand’s largestannual cruise conference with over 50 cruiselines attending, and team member SophieKillgour won the title of New Zealand’s SeniorCruise Consultant of The Year 2008. She alsowon herself a cruise in the Mediterranean for2009. Sophie is pictured here flanked by StellaTravel’s Jacqueline Unsworth and Tony Smithfrom Francis Travel Marketing.
LATE BREAK
Virgin (Pacific) Blue to Bali?The Jakarta Post quotes Heru Legowo, the General Manager of the Bali Airport Authority(PT Angkasa Pura I), as announcing that Virgin Blue will commence 11 weekly flights toBali later this year from several Australian ports.
According to official statistics, Beijing recorded 6.52-million visitor arrivals, includ-
ing 382,000 international arrivals, during the Summer Olympics.
Tourist attractions in the city earned approximately US$23-million in total revenue
during the Games while key attractions such as the Great Wall, Summer Palace and
Forbidden City recorded more than 230,000 visitors each.