TRAVELMATTERS EXPANDING THE BOUNDARIES
ISSUe 8 november 2017
Breaking new ground for the travel trade in Scotland, northern ireland, north of england & ioM
Spotlight on...
Short Breaks
mAgic of The NoRTheRN LighTS
PLUS:
Gregorz visits Paris Discover the Scenic Eclipse More ights with Lu hansa
£100 of Love2Shop voucherS with BeLfaSt city airport!
SPAA 25th Annual Travel Awards
Q & A with...
Bob Schumacher, United
Who doesn’t dream of
the chance to see the
dazzling display of the
Northern Lights?
We all have our dreams and aspirations - life experiences we want to ful l or perhaps, smaller goals we want to achieve in our everyday life.
We can aspire to visit the Seven Wonders of the World. To swim with the dolphins. Trek to Machu Picchu. Dive the Great Barrier Reef. Learn to ski the white slopes of famous mountain ranges. Or visit Paris, the most romantic city in the world.
So many amazing places to see and things to do!
In the travel industry, we are very lucky that sometimes we get the chance to tick o a destination or activity that we have always dreamed of or maybe one that’s on our bucket list. So remember, while you help clients organise a trip to their dream destination, don’t forget to make plans for your own adventures.
It’s always nice to have something special to look forward to!
Get in touch...
Hilary Douglas, Director
Tel: 07989 414454 | Email: [email protected]
Gary Reavely, Director
Tel: 07762 630057 | Email: [email protected]
[email protected] www.travelmatters.biz
Travel Matters is published by GAH Publishing Ltd, 96 Craigleith Hill Crescent, Edinburgh, EH4 2JP
Printed by Claro Print
For magazine delivery and subscription enquiries, email [email protected]
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in whole or part without the prior permission of the copyright holder. All prices and data are correct at time of publication. Opinions expressed in Travel Matters are not necessarily those of the publisher and GAH Publishing does not accept responsibility for any mistakes that may occur.
Read the last month’s issue online at... www.travelmatters.biz
Inside Guide...
0508 09
• Discover Colorado with North America Travel Service
32/33
• Fly to 20 gateways in North America with Icelandair
• Day in the Life of... Mike Reynolds
• Big Adventures with Intrepid Travel
29
• Soar through the skies with Omega Holidays
36
• Secret of my Success
16-17
• Fly to Dublin with Loganair
22
• Q&A with United’s Bob Schumacher
24
• Magic of the Northern Lights
27
• Take a journey with Hurtigruten
35
• Cruise Cuba with Celestyal
12
• Spotlight on Short Breaks
42 43 44 46
• 25th SPAA Annual • Thank You • Janice Hogarth • This month’s Travel Awards from Travel 2 celebrates 25 years Snapshots
with SPAA
£100 worth of Love2Shop voucherS with BeLfaSt city airport
George Best Belfast city airport, one of the two most punctual airports in the UK, is giving you the chance to win £100 worth of love2shop vouchers!
Rated recently as the most convenient airport in the UK and
Ireland, the airport’s ongoing aim of expanding
its domestic and European route network has continued
throughout 2017, with the introduction of two new airlines - Eastern Airways
and Icelandair.
The three-times-a-week, year-round Icelandair service to Reykjavik o ers passengers a convenient connection to a host of destinations across the USA and Canada. Eastern Airways rst entered the Northern Ireland market by servicing the Isle of Man route in March, before introducing a second route to Newcastle just six months later.
O ering routes to vital connectivity hubs such as Amsterdam and Manchester, as well as ights across the
UK to Aberdeen, Cardi , Edinburgh, Leeds Bradford, Southampton, and more, the airport has made travelling more accessible than ever.
It remains the only airport in Northern Ireland to serve the London Heathrow route, one of the top 10 busiest airports in the world, and the London City route, which operate up to 11 times daily.
To win the vouchers, please answer the question below:
What is the three-letter code for GeorGe Best Belfast city airport?
Editor’s decision is final. Terms and conditions apply. Only one entry per travel agent and prize is non-transferable, non-negotiable and no cash alternatives will be o ered. Answers should be submitted by email to [email protected] by no later than Friday 15th December 2017. Entries will be entered into a prize draw and the winner notified by email.
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newS
2017 2018
4
december 7th february 18th
SPAA Christmas Networking Lunch, Glasgow
Silversea Cruises - Evening Brochure Launch and Product Update - Blythswood Square Hotel, Glasgow
Movers& Shakers
classic collection holidays have announced that Audrey Thomson
will be representing the luxury
tour operator to the travel trade in Scotland and Northern ireland.
Audrey is a well-known gure
within the Scottish travel trade
having launched mTc in 2006,
o ering sales representation
solutions to clients specialising in the travel & hospitality industry in Scotland.
Audrey’s career prior to MTC included representation of BMI British Midland in Scotland, travel recruitment and a key regional sales role for Intercontinental Hotels Group. MTC clients have included airlines, luxury tour operators, luxury hotels, travel management companies and other key ancillary products in the Scottish market.
The appointment of Audrey is something of a full circle solution for the operator following the retirement of Drew Stewart from the position; it was Drew who gave Audrey her rst role in the travel industry with A T Mays City Breaks.
Nick Munday, Managing Director of Classic Collection Holidays commented: “We are delighted to have secured the services of such a well-respected gure within the travel trade of Scotland and Northern Ireland. Audrey is exceptionally well-placed to safeguard and drive forward the relationships that we have established with our agent suppliers who we continue to regard as the lifeblood of our industry and crucial to our future business success.”
Amanda mcmillan, Chief Executive O cer of AGS Airports, which
includes Aberdeen, Glasgow and Southampton, has announced that she will be standing down from her position and relocating with her family to Australia in early 2018.
Amanda, who also has responsibility for Glasgow Airport, where she has been
Managing Director for over nine years, has overseen signi cant growth for the group, not
only in passenger numbers but also through securing new routes and a series of modernisation projects.
The team at Travel Matters would like to wish Amanda every success for the future!
Save the date
MARCH 1st
14th ABTA Social Media in Travel Seminar,
April 13th may 5th
Glasgow
CMV Magellan visits Belfast
SPAA 88th Annual Dinner, Glasgow
CMV Magellan visits Newcastle 6th CMV Magellan visits Dundee
10-13th Advantage Conference, Miami 23-25th CLIA Conference, Southampton
june 12th
21st CMV Columbus visits Invergordon
CMV Magellan visits Newcastle CMV Columbus visits Greenock
july 13th
14th CMV Columbus visits Belfast
Keep above board with CMV
cruise and maritime Voyages are inviting agents and trade partners on ship visits, including lunch, on board Columbus and Magellan in 2018.
Lisa Jacobs, Head of Trade Sales at CMV commented: “Next year we are o ering 27 ship visit opportunities in 12 alternative venues across the country. Our ship visit programme is aimed to make it easy for the trade to come on board and take a look around, including in new ports, Greenock and Belfast.”
If you are interested in joining a ship visit, download a registration form and send it to agents@ cruiseandmaritime.com
Losing yourseLf in new surroundings is the best way to find yourseLf...
expanding the boundaries november 2017
THE WORLD’S FIRST DISCOVERY YACHT
Luxury meets Discovery on board Scenic’s extraordinary new ocean ship. Dive into the deep blue in a submarine. Soar above by helicopter. And go further than ever before in custom-built luxury, designed for up to just 228 guests. From the Arctic to Antarctica and everywhere in between, ocean cruising has never felt like this.
Truly All-Inclusive On board
Return ights from a selection of up to 15 airports
Spacious all-verandah suite accommodation
Personal service with an almost 1:1 staff-to-guest ratio
10 dining experiences, from casual to ne dining
Unlimited complimentary beverages Butler service for every guest*
Spa Sanctuary & plunge pools
Gym, yoga & pilates studio
Indoor and outdoor swimming pools Expert Discovery Leaders on
all cruises
Daily entertainment and discovery presentations
Complimentary self-service guest laundry Complimentary Wi-Fi internet
Onshore
Comprehensive choice of
shore excursions
Exclusive Scenic Enrich experiences Expert local guides
Zodiac excursions
Kayak, snorkelling and snow shoeing adventures
The freedom of our e-bikes (electronically assisted bicycles) Bottled water for all shore excursions
Chef-prepared picnics
All tipping and gratuities on board and onshore
*All drinks on board are included except for a very small number of rare, ne and vintage wines, champagnes and spirits.
Chilean Fjords &
CRUISE FROM
the Falkland Islands £9,455 PER PERSON
18 Day Itinerary Valparaiso > Buenos Aires
A truly bespoke itinerary that offers up the very best of the islands and fjords of Patagonia and Chile before introducing your customers to the intriguing world of the Falkland Islands.
FREE City stay IN BUENOS AIRES†
Plus EXCLUSIVE Earlybird Fares
Departs: November 2018
Plus SAVE £350 PER PERSON
Early Payment Discount
Discover Spain, Portugal & Morocco
9 Day Itinerary Tenerife > Barcelona
CRUISE FROM
£5,255
PER PERSON
FREE City stay IN BARCELONA†
Plus EXCLUSIVE Earlybird Fares
Moor in the heart of small and unique ports, explore islands and lands of great history. From the Roman Empire to the Moors of the Middle Ages, your customers will love uncovering their stories.
Departs: April 2019
Plus SAVE £350 PER PERSON
Early Payment Discount
Jewels of Iberia
& Ireland £7,875
14 Day Itinerary Barcelona > Dublin
PER PERSON
CRUISE FROM
Explore the Spanish coastline before discovering the untouched elegance of Portugal. Cruise across the Atlantic Ocean to the Isles of Scilly and onto the land of the world’s greatest storytellers, Ireland.
FREE City stay IN BARCELONA†
Plus EXCLUSIVE Earlybird Fares
Plus SAVE £350 PER PERSON
Early Payment Discount
Departs: May 2019
Contact your Sales Manager for more information – [email protected] Book the ultimate in luxury
Reservations: 0808 115 0463 [email protected]
Terms and Conditions: All prices per person, twin share in GBP based on two sharing with economy ights departing London Heathrow, subject to availability. Prices indicated are for the lowest suite category with the same name. *All drinks on board are included except for a very small number of rare, ne and vintage wines, champagnes and spirits. Prices correct at the time of going to print (November 2017). Offers are valid for new bookings only made between 1 November 2017 and 30 November 2017. Earlybird fares are strictly limited. †Number of nights included in the free city stay offer differs per location, and may be subject to change. Hotel stay includes bed and breakfast accommodation and does not include a Scenic Tour Director. For pre cruise hotel stay, departure dates will differ from those stated. Early Payment Discount - save £350 per person off the advertised price if the balance is paid in full before 30 November 2017 for a 2018 Scenic Eclipse Cruise and before 5 January 2018 for a 2019 Scenic Eclipse Cruise. Offers can be withdrawn at any time. For full terms and conditions please see sceniceclipse.com.
8
It’s an old cliché, but in this industry, I think everyone can relate to “two days never being the same”. That’s why we love it – but what does an Airline Account Manager do? If I had a pint for every time I’ve been asked that, I’d be a very drunk man!
First and foremost we’re responsible for making sure our trade partners have a local expert that they can rely on in supporting them to sell our product to their clients. That can translate as building relationships with tour operators and travel agents, representing Icelandair at events and arguably the most fun part – FAM trips!
In the two short years I have been with Icelandair I’ve
been fortunate enough to take our trade partners on some incredible, once in a life-time trips across the Icelandair network – Oregon, Alaska, Colorado and Alberta to name just a few. Oh, and not forgetting the Land of Fire & Ice itself, Iceland!
bathe in the Blue Lagoon, hit the bars and restaurants in downtown Reykjavik before snowmobiling the following day
on some of Europe’s largest glaciers. This
is only the tip of the iceberg though (pun intended), as we head airport-bound for the short hop over the rest of the pond.
For anyone who
enjoys seeing the
world and likes
meeting new people,
then there’s probably
not a better industry than ours. Just thinking back to some
of the memories I’ve shared with our trade partners, we sure are a lucky bunch! A personal highlight of mine was only last month when we got to enjoy a Gin & Tonic on an Alaskan lake with ice that had been freshly chopped from a nearby oating iceberg. A memory that will stay with me forever!
I’ll also never forget the time an agent (who will remain nameless...for now!) told me at check-in that he was scared
of helicopters and was quite anxious about the journey to Iceland. Needless to say, he was more than thrilled when I told him we’d be taking the two hour ight on a plane (because a er all, we’re an airline)! In his defence, it was very early on a Sunday morning...
So while you’re unlikely to catch me at the side of a runway with an anorak and a pair of binoculars, regardless of how cool I pretend to be, the aviation-geek will always shine through... and that’s why this really is, the best job ever! (Although, I’d
be lying if I said it hadn’t crossed my mind in the dark, cold depths of January, what it might be like to work for Hawaiian Airlines...)
Right, I’m o to catch a plane!
with MIKereynoldS Account Manager, Icelandair (Scotland, NE England & Northern Ireland)
I’m o en asked where the best trip has been and honestly... it’s genuinely too close to call. Icelandair ies to so many great destinations across the USA and Canada and through collaborating with their fantastic Tourist Boards, we’re always guaranteed the best hospitality while exploring their country.
With our hub at Ke avik being located in the middle of the Atlantic, it’s perfectly positioned for a stopover on the way to North America...this is where we receive a big Icelandic welcome, which gets the trip o to a great start!
I love to show o this part of the journey to travel agents. We usually stopover for 24 hours. That gives us enough time to
e
expanding the boundaries
november 2017
Small groups, big adventures
with Intrepid Travel
Every Intrepid small group adventure has been carefully designed to ensure an unforgettable grassroots travel experience, led by our award-winning native leaders. We now have a portfolio of over 1,500 itineraries in over 130 countries, and we’re still growing! Let’s just say we know what travellers really want: a balance of inclusions and free time, a mix of classic highlights and local secrets you won’t nd on Google. And of course, an authentic real-life experience!
Find out more at www.intrepidlovesagents.com
New brochures available through TradeGate
When Silver can be worth its weight in Gold!
The President’s Silver Anniversary Annual Travel Awards Report
During my time at the helm, I’ve been privileged to be SPAA President at some pretty stunning events, but this was de nitely one of the best!
It had all the ingredients to be a cracker right from the start - the 25th Anniversary of the Awards, a great venue, superb food and drink, eight great headline sponsors, 650 attendees from the world of travel, two amazing bands - Frankie’s Boys and the Soul Convicts - plus a fabulous DJ team for the a er party.
Put them all together and what do you have? One hell of a party!
I’ve o en said that the SPAA Awards is my favourite travel event of the year - the Scottish travel trade certainly know how to party with the best of them, but the night actually had more than that - the
special ingredients that are pretty unique to the Scottish travel trade - it also had empathy, emotion and generosity.
We raised an amazing £7,000 for our nominated SPAA charity Mary’s Meals, which was doubled to £14k by an anonymous donor - incredible!
In addition to the mainstream awards, the night also included Edinburgh Airport and the Scottish trade wishing Glasgow Airport Managing Director, Amanda McMillan, well on her forthcoming departure to a new life with her family in Australia. Amanda has done a brilliant
job at Glasgow Airport over the last nine years, turning things around a er the nancial crash and the loss of Globespan. She has been an inspirational leader and a true partner to the travel trade. She will be sadly missed.
We also acknowledged a ‘special contribution to Scottish aviation’ by the UK boss of Emirates, Laurie Berryman
and wished him well on his retirement planned for early next year. Laurie’s decision to bring Emirates to Glasgow over 13 years ago changed the face of aviation in Scotland forever.
He proved it was possible to operate a pro table direct long haul service to the Middle East and beyond from Scotland. Emirates have been hugely successful, now operating an award winning double daily service from Glasgow to over 140 cities worldwide. It’s importance to the
Scottish economy and travel & tourism industry cannot be underestimated. In addition to the massive outbound and inbound tourism tra c that it generates, it also handles more than 50% of all Air Cargo from Scotland.
Then there was the ‘Superman of Travel’, Drew Stewart, who continues to confound and surprise - he picked up the Best Leisure Travel Representative award in his retirement year!
We also presented Drew with an incredibly well deserved ‘Lifetime Achievement Award’.
It was one of the highlights of my Presidency, not only to present the award, but to witness him receiving a standing ovation as he took to the stage.
Personally, it was a fantastic note for me to end my Presidency. I’ve talked about Respect, Harmony and Partnership as the cornerstone of my tenure at SPAA and the night had all of that at its very best!
So, as always, there were a few surprises - congratulations to the winners - to the runners up - there is always next year - your time will come!
To Amanda, Laurie and Drew -
haste ye back!
ALAN gLeN, SPAA President
Contact:
Janice Hogarth for further details on: [email protected]
10
Join us
at the
AnnuAl SPAA ChriStmAS networking lunCh
thursday 7th December 2017 From 12pm at the 29 Club, glasgow
Why not come along and enjoy networking with our Members and Associates, a festive lunch and some Christmas cheer!
expanding the boundaries
november 2017
Associate member News Bytes
New elite class Rooms from constantinou Bros hotels
Hi, I am mark Richardson, the UK Sales & Marketing Manager for Constantinou Bros Hotels!
I have been with the company for 14 years and was previously the Sales Manager for Argo Holidays. I am very excited to share the news with everyone regarding Constantinou Bros Hotels which features four stylish and luxurious hotels in superb beachfront locations all within Paphos.
We are renowned for our exceptional levels of service and customer satisfaction! Our latest developments include the new Elite Class Rooms & Suites within our four-star properties. We also have a fantastic agent incentive where you can win the reward of a stay in the following hotels for free - Asimina Suites Hotel - Athena Beach Hotel - Athena Royal
Beach Hotel and Sensimar Pioneer Beach Hotel!
SAS introduces upgrades and
re-launches agent website
The introduction of 30 A320neo aircra is just the rst step in SAS’s plan to upgrade its entire short and medium-haul eet. The 70 remaining aircra will be re- tted to bring them in line with our product o ering on the A320neo.
The cabin improvements include new slimline Recaro seats with more legroom, USB power outlets at every seat and high speed complimentary Wi-FI on board for Eurobonus and SAS Plus travellers. ‘New Nordic by SAS’ is our recently launched in- ight food and beverage concept o ering SAS travellers fresh, seasonal and local ingredients.
Our revamped SAS Agent Information website has a modern design and new features to help make your daily work easier. You have your own account with the possibility to customise the page to t your individual needs. Explore the SAS Agent Information site at: www.sassalesinfo.com
Jane Montgomerie is a Key Account Manager with SAS, working with travel agency partners throughout the UK.
more mega-ships and innovations from mSc cruises
colin Rillie is responsible for the strategic direction and support of cruise specialists based in Scotland, Northern Ireland and
the North East. Along with Claire Smith who looks a er retail high street agents, we have a dedicated team in place to provide support, training, updates and sales messages to the trade.
MSC Cruises sails year-round in the Mediterranean and the Caribbean and o ers seasonal itineraries in northern Europe, the Atlantic Ocean, Cuba and the French Antilles, South America, Southern Africa and Emirates.
The company has recently embarked on a 9 billion euro investment plan which will see MSC Cruises build 11 new ships in just 10 years. The rst of these mega-ships, MSC Meraviglia was launched in June this year. Later this year, the cruise line will deliver MSC Seaside, the ship that follows the sun with the aim to bring guests closer to the sea, with innovations including panoramic li s, ocean level promenades and al fresco dining venues. MSC Seaside will sail year round from Miami.
2018 is an exciting year for MSC Cruises with MSC Magni ca based in Southampton all summer. We have also introduced ights from Scotland, Northern Ireland
and Northern England.
getabed - dedicated to supporting the travel trade
I joined Getabed in January this year as Head of Sales for UK & Ireland, (most of you will remember where I was previously)! This year has gone by in a ash, as it’s been so busy in my new role and I absolutely love it!
Getabed are one of the longest established accommodation suppliers, now in our 26th year of trading. We are trade only, so focused purely on travel agents with no consumer distractions. We are also one of the few accommodation suppliers to have
a UK based Customer Support Team. Our Support Team pride themselves on providing the highest level
of customer service to you, our customers.
For more information, contact Mark direct on 07880 548189 or telephone 01924 380160 (UK o ce)
For further details, please contact Colin Rillie, National Account manager on tel 07917 632399 or email [email protected]
You can contact Jane on:
Email: [email protected] Mobile: 07774 156005
Agent Support: 0871 226 7767
Our Customer Support Team can be contacted on 01273 429000 or by email on [email protected]. To contact Angela Muir, email [email protected]
or tel 07903 035 238
november 2017
11
S h o r t B r e f ae Ka St uf re ae t u r e
Reap the rewards of Portugal with Classic Collection Holidays
early sales suggest that 2018 is going to be a very promising year for Portugal.
Holidaymakers seem to be looking to travel west and Portugal just happens to be Europe’s most westerly outpost. The fact that Portugal has such a diverse product means a rich bounty of very di erent holiday experiences; great news for prospective clients and an easy and rewarding sell for travel agents.
There’s a ne climate, stunning scenery, beguiling cities, subtropical islands, windswept coasts, soaring cli s, endless beaches, hospitable people, superb gastronomy and enviable wines! And a country which o ers superb value for money. No other European country is so regularly placed at the top of the Post O ce Travel Money’s annual Worldwide Holiday Costs Barometer of the best value holiday destinations.
Celebrity endorsements for Portugal these days come via footballer Cristiano Ronaldo and football manager Jose Mourinho who have brought Madeira, Porto Santo and Lisbon to the attention of a much wider public.
Lisbon is understated and elegant. Yellow trams rattle up and down the steep, narrow cobbled streets adding character to a city which remains de antly Portuguese, resisting the globalisation endemic to many European capitals.
Fine transport links mean that Lisbon can be the starting point of a twin or multi-centre holiday to a wider Portugal. Customers can easily move onto the delights of the nearby Estoril Coast a er a stay in the capital, or maybe look further a eld to combine a holiday in Lisbon with Madeira, Porto Santo, Porto or even the Algarve. Other areas of interest include Portugal’s second city, Porto and the stunningly beautiful Douro Valley.
Classic Collection’s Concierge service assists agents in demonstrating to potential customers the skill and expertise that an agent can bring to their holiday. The more complicated the booking, the less likely customers will attempt to do it themselves. Pull together an amazing itinerary and you’ll win over a customer for life. Not to mention reaping the reward of the increased commission that these higher value bookings command.
for more details, call classic concierge on 0800 008 7289 and see pages 12 – 13 of our new Portugal brochure.
Christmas shopping with CMV
cruise & maritime Voyages is o ering a range of short-break cruises to the christmas markets of Belgium and the Netherlands. The christmas market cruises are currently included in cmV’s save up to 30% and buy one, get one half price o er.
The Antwerp Christmas Market cruise sails from London Tilbury on 13th December on board Magellan for two nights. This festive mini cruise to Belgium includes full board cuisine, evening shows, cabarets and disco, porterage of luggage, port to cabin and port taxes.
Passengers can discover Antwerp with its medieval guild houses and shop for seasonal gi s in the Christmas Market including Belgium chocolates. The Antwerp Christmas Market cruise is available priced from £279 for the rst passenger and £139 for the second passenger, staying in a superior twin
inner cabin.
The Festive Getaway cruise sails from London Tilbury on 18th December on board Columbus to Zeebrugge (for Bruges) and Amsterdam for three nights. From Zeebrugge, passengers can take an optional tour to visit Bruges and
explore the Christmas Market. Priced from £289 for the rst passenger, with the second passenger paying £144 on a voyager insider guarantee, this cruise is an ideal way to shop for some unique gi s.
12
expanding the boundaries
november 2017
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City breaks, twin centre, multi centre, fly drive, air travel or travel by train; you name it,
before they travel.
For our full range of hotels in Portugal please see our specialist brochure
PORTO DOURO VALLEY ALGARVE LISBON ESTORIL COAST MADEIRA PORTO SANTO
100% financial protection I Private transfers included I Fly from up to 17 UK airports www.classic-collection.co.uk live chat freephone 0800 008 7288
faM trIp hIghlIghtS
Dates Visited: What Did We Like:
24th – 26th April 2017
The hotel, the food, the bars, the shopping - absolutely everything!
Airline:
Hotel:
Restaurant Summary:
On the way out we ew easyJet from Edinburgh airport around midday and the return ight was with Ryanair later on at night - giving us lots of time to explore this Scandic city!
Excursions:
Boat Tour: The perfect way to see the city from the water and grab a comfy seat at the same time! Around an hour long journey.
Destination Summary:
• A beautiful city with lots to see and do
• Amazing food and nightlife and very friendly locals
• Youcanwalkeverywhere-it’sacompactcityandyouseesomuchmore
We stayed in the Admiral Hotel, which overlooks the stunning modern Opera House right on the waterfront. The views from our room were mesmerising rst thing in the morning!
One of the main attractions of this city is the delicious food and array of top restaurants on o er! Here are a few of our favourites -
• Vakst: Located about a 13-minute walk from Central Station, recommended as ‘urban ne-dining without the price tag’ and it very much lived up to it. The food was so delicious we didn’t want the meal to end. From the salt baked kohlrabi (like cabbage), the veal tartar to the ‘cream beer shot’ to nish the meal o - it really was something else. We highly recommend this one!
• café Norden: Right in the city centre, opposite Illum (posh department store). We stopped here for lunch to sample Copenhagen’s typical Scandic dish– Smørrebrød. Great food, lovely people and nice views of the centre of town.
• The market: Stunning modern Asian restaurant and cocktail bar! Mouth-watering food and the restaurant had a real buzz to it! One of the ‘ultra cool’ places to go to in Copenhagen!
Nyhavn: An atmospheric area full of bars, restaurants and cafes all overlooking the harbour. illum: If you love shopping or browsing designer shops, this is the place for you!
14
Copenhagen with Osprey Holidays
Report by SARAh BLAck, mARkeTiNg mANAgeR
& NAThALie coRNiSh, PRodUcT mANAgeR, oSPRey hoLidAyS
expanding the boundaries
november 2017
S h o r t B r e f ae Ka St uf re ae t u r e Lu hansa expands Glasgow
services to Germany
A er adding a fourth ight to the Bavarian capital of munich, Lu hansa has now announced that it will increase its direct service to munich to ve ights a week for summer 2018.
Commencing 25th March, the Munich ights will depart Glasgow on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.
Lu hansa has also announced a brand new daily, year
round service to Frankfurt, commencing 26th March 2018.
These additional ights will also enable Scottish passengers to access onward connections to the airline’s
worldwide network to 193 destinations in 75 countries.
Visitors to Frankfurt will nd historic buildings, a medieval town square, world class ballet, art galleries, The Museum District, The Old Opera House, Zoo Frankfurt, The Eschenheimer Tower and the beautiful Palm Garden, the largest botanic garden in Germany.
Situated on the Bockenheimer Landstrasse, the 54-acre Palm Garden opened in 1871 and attracted some of the top performers from around the world, including Bu alo Bill who visited with his Wild West show in 1890.
It’s understandable global rail can be confusing with a multi choice of routings - various ticket options and buying in a foreign currency.
RailTourGuide cover all these challenges for you, using their expert knowledge and experience in this sector. RailTourGuide have their global agency agreements in place and will make sure that your client gets the best possible product and service for their rail journeys.
You also get to earn a nice commission - so it is really a win - win option using RailTourGuide.
Why choose RailTourGuide?
Expert Knowledge Excellent Commission Fast and Reliable Service
No Hidden Charges Global Coverage Friendly UK Based Of ce
- RailTourGuide are Your Global Rail Expert
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november 2017
15
Fly to Dublin with Scotland’s airline
dublin is a city which will o er any guest a warm welcome. Boasting an impressive mix of culture, history and world-class nightlife, it’s the ideal destination for a short break.
One of its most famous attractions is the ‘Guinness Storehouse’ and for fans of
the black stu , it’s de nitely one for the bucket-list! Tours take you through the main brewery and nish in the Gravity Bar, o ering unrivalled views across the city.
If museums take your fancy, The National Gallery of Ireland contains over 2,500 paintings including famous works by Van Gogh, Picasso, and Monet while the National Museum has a large
collection of Celtic and Medieval Art.
Once home to some of history’s greatest authors, Dublin is a UNESCO City of Literature, where tourists can visit the
old haunts of the greats including Oscar Wilde, Samuel Beckett and James Joyce. Alternatively, take a relaxing stroll around the beautiful grounds of Trinity College, and enjoy the sights of cobblestone quadrangles, sweeping lawns and ancient trees.
Meanwhile, music fans can enjoy a lively folk session in a traditional Irish bar any night of the week.
Outside of the city, the Skerries is a picturesque seaside town famous
for its shing and the traditional music festival held here each
year. For those who don’t mind venturing a little further, take a trip down the coast and you’ll arrive in Malahide - a beautiful village where medieval meets modernity.
Dublin Airport is the only European capital with US Pre-Clearance, with
174 ights a week to the USA and is the
h largest airport in Europe for North American connectivity. There are direct ights to 187 destinations in 43 countries, operated by a total of 42 airlines and last year, passenger numbers at Dublin Airport increased by 11% to a record 27.9 million!
Loganair ies between Inverness and Dublin four days per week with lead-in fares starting at £67.98. Services can be booked at loganair.co.uk or telephone 0344 800 2855.
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expanding the boundaries
november 2017
Fed up of long winter nights?
They are better
in Dublin...
where you’ll hope the night never ends.
Fly Loganair from Inverness to Dublin Airport
Book now at loganair.co.uk
S h o r t B r e f ae Ka St uf re ae t u r e
Belfast City Airport
thanks the travel trade
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expanding the boundaries
november 2017
george Best Belfast city Airport recently treated members of the Northern ireland travel trade to a luxurious spa day at the four-star galgorm Resort & Spa.
Over 20 senior travel agents and airline representatives, including Aer Lingus, British Airways, Eastern Airways, Flybe, Thompson Travel and American Holidays enjoyed a day of pampering, followed by lunch and an overview of the latest developments at the airport.
Diane Risk, Travel Trade Consultant at Belfast City Airport, said: “Developing and maintaining strong relationships with our airline partners and local travel trade is hugely important for Belfast City Airport and we wanted to show our thanks to the airlines and agents we work in close partnership with.
“These events not only give us the opportunity to strengthen our relationships with the travel trade but also allow us to brief our partners on new airlines, plans for growing our route network, our car parking products and other commercial o erings.
“2017 has been a hugely successful year for Belfast City Airport, with highlights including the co-hosting of the Routes Europe conference in Belfast, the launch of two new routes from Eastern Airways and our Icelandair route to Reykjavik.
“This year we have also been awarded a number of accolades. As well as being named the NI Responsible Company of the Year, we were announced as one of the top two airports in the UK for punctuality, by the CAA.”
Amsterdam Zoo mini cruise with
if you have clients looking for a short break for all the family, why not suggest a dfdS Amsterdam Zoo mini cruise from Newcastle.
This wonderful mini cruise for families includes two nights at sea and approximately ve hours at Artis Zoo. Priced from £68pp, an ensuite cabin, live onboard entertainment, coach transfers and tickets to the zoo are all included in the price.
Alternatively, clients can enjoy a relaxing short cruise experience along with ne dining on a DFDS gourmet mini cruise. Guests spend 2 nights onboard and dine in style as they sail to Amsterdam and can then enjoy up to ve hours in the city.
With a choice of three onboard meals and drinks packages, including all you can eat bu et breakfast and dinner, as well as coach transfers to and from Amsterdam, it makes the perfect relaxing getaway.
50% of Northern Ireland’s
biggest businesses
located in our immediate
catchment area
Belfast City Airport
5 minutes
from city centre
Short walk from
BELFAST
car park to terminal
Northern Ireland’s
only connection
to Heathrow
Our airlines include:
UK and Ireland’s
Unrivalled
• Aer Lingus
• British Airways • Eastern Airways • Flybe
• Icelandair
• KLM
most convenient
route network
airport
To nd out more visit:
belfastcityairport.com
Gregorz... The well travelled bear visits... paris
Ooh La La!
Paris is currently enjoying a resurgence in visitor numbers and there isn’t a better time to sell this beautiful city to your clients. it’s quick and easy to get to and is a wonderful destination at any time of the year!
If your clients have not been before, then there is a long list of things to see and do! They can admire the Ei el Tower from a distance and avoid the queues by choosing instead to go up the Tour Montparnasse, a skyscraper with a panoramic observation deck o ering amazing views.
Suggest that they walk right along the Champs Elysees and admire the Arc de Triomphe at one end, down to the Place de la Concorde and then over to the Louvre Palace and Museum at the other. In between, credit cards can be well exercised in Ti any, Louis Vuitton, Dior and many other fashionable French shops.!
The fourth arrondissement or district where Notre-Dame is situated is a great place to go. Not only is this a beautiful cathedral, (even with its resident hunchback!) but the area along the River Seine is gorgeous. There are queues to get in, but don’t be put o – you will be rewarded and if you choose to climb to the top, there are more breathtaking views!
You could also recommend a trip to Versailles, located 20 km south west of the city - truly magni que! Pre-book your clients’ tickets and remind them to leave plenty of time to visit the gardens too.
In the evening, there is the Night Fountains Show and Fireworks or in the summer months, there are some amazing pyrotechnic shows to music. Check out www.versailles-tourisme.com for dates and times.
However long you have in Paris, it will never feel long enough – which is the perfect excuse to go back again!
3 There is plenty of accommo- dation to choose from. A good mid range hotel includes Hotel Minerve near Notre Dame or for a luxury option, choose the Hotel Balzac - stunning!
3 Pre book Passlib pass, available for 1-5 days, purchased online and delivered to your clients before departure. It o ers admission
to all the leading museums and monuments in Paris as well as sightseeing tours and unlimited transport in set zones.
3 Paris is renowned for its nightlife and the area of Bastille is a great place to go! Start at The Lab where ‘happy hour’ cocktails are only 6 euros and follow up by moving back in time to the 1930’s Chicago at Le Moonshiner – this place is amazing! You enter through the back -door of a Pizzeria - the beer is cheap, cocktails delicious and atmosphere fab!
3 If your clients want to go to a show, they will love the famous Moulin Rouge. Tickets can be bought for the show itself or a dinner and drinks package. Or they could
try the newly reopened Lido de Paris on the Champs Elysees, with utterly extravagant costumes, sequins and stage sets to match!
ToP TiPS
Where will he go next?...
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november 2017
S h o r t B r e f ae Ka St uf re ae t u r e
See Cli Richard Live in Concert with Newmarket Holidays
escorted tours specialist Newmarket holidays has gone on general sale with cli Richard’s 60th Anniversary concert breaks.
As the Preferred Travel Package Partner of the Cli Richard Organisation, in October 2018, Newmarket Holidays is o ering coach-inclusive breaks to see Cli Richard celebrate 60 years of Rock ‘n’ Roll and perform in London’s iconic Royal Albert Hall and Birmingham’s Symphony Hall.
In addition, Platinum Hotel and Ticket Breaks with great seats included are available to the Royal Albert Hall and at eight regional venues around the country, including Glasgow, Manchester and Brighton, with guaranteed seats in the front 15 rows of the chosen venue (London front arena & stalls).
Jeremy Gri n, Product Director, commented: “Travel packages are increasing in popularity with Cli fans who want to travel together for an extra- special time away to see their favourite artist perform live.
“Newmarket customers enjoy that the entire package is put together for them, from reserved good seats (with many upgrades available) to hotel accommodation and transfers to and from the venue.”
Newmarket Holidays also provide a
tour manager on all concert breaks,
who helps things run smoothly – from ensuring people enter the larger venues via the named entrance on their tickets, to returning customers to their hotel directly by coach once the concert has nished.
For more information on Newmarket Holidays’ Cli Richard Concert Breaks visit: www.newmarketholidays.co.uk
november 2017
21
Questions & Answers
gARy ReAVeLy speaks to
BoB SchUmAcheR, Managing Director Sales, UK & Ireland, United
Can you give us an overview of how things are going at United?
We will be celebrating 20 years ying from Scotland in 2018 and generally things are very good! For the rst time, we will
be serving Washington from Scotland, giving us three cities connecting from Edinburgh next year to the USA. I think this really tells its own story – one of going from strength to strength!
The increase in product range gives us a new message to take to the market. Our third quarter results were very positive and show us delivering consistent results – this then allows us to continue to invest in our products and our people and is testament to the fact that aviation in North America is in a good place at the moment.
We were disappointed that the Glasgow to New York service was cancelled this winter – what led to this decision?
We are a commercial business that needs to make a return on investment. We watch the markets and where there are signi cant uctuations in demand, we can’t ignore them. In the end, we made the decision to stop this service over the winter months.
We y where our customers want to y, when they want to y and therefore we had to look at this and make a judgement.
The airline business is hugely competitive - what new customer service initiatives are United putting in place to remain ahead
of the game?
We are a service industry and want to satisfy the needs of
the ying public - whether they are ying in the front cabin or enjoying the bene ts of our new Polaris service in business class. These and other initiatives are part of an ongoing investment in our product. We have already seen the so bene ts of the new Polaris o ering across all international routes and progressively seen the introduction of the new Polaris seat which is currently being delivered on new airplanes from Boeing. This ongoing investment is then mirrored on the ground with the introduction of the new Polaris lounges, the rst of which has already opened in Chicago.
You are in the
process of renewing
a lot of your eet. The B757
has served Scotland for many years - will this remain the case?
It was with a mixture of sadness and the chance for new opportunities when we said goodbye to the last 747. It’s a shame to see the Queen of the Skies retire but it’s time to embrace new technologies from Boeing. In respect to regional markets, we continue to operate what are some of the youngest 757s in the market. What we have to do is get the right sized aircra in the right market, in the right season. For the moment, the 757 will continue to ply its trade successfully in the regional markets.
With all the various economic and political headwinds, how do you see the transatlantic market
going forward?
It’s back to the old adage – if you ask ve economists for an opinion, you will get six di erent answers! I wouldn’t try to second guess how the economy is going to fare over the coming years. What I know is that we are seeing a robust transatlantic market. United have the advantage of selling at both ends of the route and we have seen a signi cant up-turn in terms of US inbound tra c and of course, we are a US brand and market very heavily there, as you would expect. The increase in tourism is good for us all.
Great news about the Washington DC route from Edinburgh - tell us more!
We have been appraising new opportunities for a while.
A er successfully adding Chicago, the next obvious step was Washington DC. We will start seasonally but are hopeful in
time to extend this route. I recently visited Washington DC to re-familiarise myself with its attractions. It really is a great city! Washington DC has long su ered from being in the shadow
of New York and yet it has its own unique tourist o ering – not only the White House but Smithsonian Museums and of course, Georgetown - it’s a great destination! We really believe that this route will do well.
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northernlIghtS feature
chASiNg The NoRTheRN LighTS WiTh iNTRePid TRAVeL
do you know a single person who wouldn’t want to go in search of the elusive Northern Lights (or Aurora Borealis, if you’re feeling fancy)? We’d bet that if you asked any one of your clients whether catching a glimpse of the best lightshow on earth features anywhere on their bucket list, they’re pretty likely to say ‘yes’.
As an agent you’re already bound to know that there are several locations travellers can head to in the hope of spotting this amazing natural phenomenon. From Svalbard in Norway, one of the most northerly inhabited places on the planet, to Reykjavik in Iceland, which continues to be one of the most a ordable and easily accessible places to nd them.
At Intrepid Travel we o er a selection
of incredible trips to wanderers seeking out their slice of the action; we’ve chosen three of our favourites and here is everything you need to know...
1. Northern Lights Escape
Our aptly named ‘Northern Lights Escape’ o ers your clients the perfect opportunity to explore Iceland and its astounding landscape. Over the course of six days they’ll follow the stunning ‘Golden Circle’, visiting gurgling hot springs and the majestic Gullfoss waterfall. They’ll enjoy a guided tour of the country’s capital, Reykjavik and drive along the island’s spectacular south shore. The trip’s most hotly anticipated activity? It has to be staying up late into the night to see the northern sky dance with light!
2. Finnish Lapland in Winter
Winter is here on our eight-day ‘Finnish Lapland in Winter’ tour, giving travellers the chance to discover Finland like never before, as they
journey through snow-covered Lapland on the back of a husky-pulled sled. They’ll visit a traditional Sami family, where the locals will guide them through their world and lifestyle. Choosing a single highlight is tricky, but we’d guess most clients will be tempted by the chance to see the Aurora Borealis – watching ashes
of green light y across the sky, what could be more magical?
3. Canada Rockies &
Northern Lights
This 11-day wintery epic lets wanderers go in search of the Northern Lights
in Alberta’s night skies. They’ll look out for local wildlife like moose, white-tailed deer and elk, as they
drive through the pristine Canadian wilderness. There’s plenty more to look forward to, including an unforgettable dog-sledding experience, a snowshoe hike in the mountains above Ban and a sleigh ride around the breathtaking Lake Louise. There’s fun for everyone on our Canada Rockies & Northern Lights tour!
Obviously, we’d love to guarantee that your clients will experience this awe- inspiring spectacle for themselves,
but unfortunately nature is out of our hands! It’s a no brainer, but caveating any Northern Lights booking with the warning that seeing them is subject to weather conditions is vital for avoiding disappointment.
Now you’ve got the rundown of our Aurora Borealis adventures, it’s time for a little bit about why we love working with agents and what we can do for you...
We know your customers are demanding more experience-rich travel and we’d love to be your partner of choice. So, to help you get to know our products, we’re o ering places on one of six amazing fam trips in 2018. Watch this space for
more details!
We’ve got a top team of BDMs ready to support you with training and anything else you might need. We also have a dedicated trade marketing team that can produce any collateral and campaign content you’d like. You can even download editable marketing materials for your stores from our very own agent portal ‘Intrepid Loves Agents’.
Our passionate sales team are always on hand to help you close that next sale, working 24/7 to answer any questions and hold spaces on our tours for up
to ve days. Lastly and perhaps most importantly, we o er some of the industry’s best commissions!
To nd out more about Intrepid Travel, give us a call on 0808 274 5111 or to register yourself for our Intrepid Loves Agents portal, visit intrepidlovesagents.com.
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ENJOY THE UNIQUE MOOD LIGHTING ON BOARD OUR A350
APPEARANCE OF
THE NORTHERN LIGHTS GUARANTEED
Experience the beauty of breath-taking Lapland. We have increased our flight capacity to Lapland this winter including direct flights from London Gatwick to Ivalo and Kittilä. Book now and give your clients an unforgettable winter holiday.
THE NORDIC WAY
Arctic Circle 66°33’N
northernlIghtS feature
Norway
Canada
GREENLAND
ICELAND
Europe
Punta Arenas Cape Horn
Puerto Montt
Manta Callao
Arica
Santarém
Puerto Limón
Fortaleza
Kuujjuaq Torngat Mountains NP
Nuuk
z jord
Igaliku
Lisbon Casablanca
L’Anse aux Meadows
St. John’s
Gros Morne NP
Manaus
Praia
Amsterdam Guernsey
Paraty
Montevideo
Falkland Island
South Georgia
South Orkney Islands
Drake Passage
Antarctic Circle 66°33’S
Hi everyone!
Just wanted to let you all know that Hurtigruten have reshu ed the UK & Ireland Sales team and I will no longer be the Sales Manager for Scotland, Ireland & the North.
My new role will now be National Explorer Manager where I will focus on expanding our Expedition voyages to the Arctic, Antarctic and in between the poles. Going forward, we will be recruiting someone who will cover my old regions, but in the meantime if you need
any assistance, please contact agency sales on uk.agency.sales@ hurtigruten.com or tel: 0208 8462647.
I would like to thank you for all your support over the last seven years and this is certainly not goodbye, as you will de nitely see me around!
Med vennlig hilsen/Best regards
danny giles
26
Enjoy the greatest show on earth on board Hurtigruten
North
CANADA
the excitement of the northern lights is addictive.
brilliant colour. You can even opt to receive announcements of the lights direct to your cabin, meaning whilst on board, you’ll never miss an appearance, no matter what the time is. Hurtigruten sail daily up and down the beautiful Norwegian coast, but it is when you’re in Northern Norway that you
have the best chance of seeing the lights. Perfectly situated within the Arctic Circle, the region sits directly beneath the auroral zone, where the elusive lights nd it hard to shy away, and as such visitors and locals alike are regular witnesses to energetic displays.
Thanks to longer nights and darker skies, the Northern Lights season typically runs from October to March. During this period Hurtigruten are so con dent in their ability to show you the lights, that they will o er you a free 6 oAr 7-fdaryivocyage free of charge if the Northern Lights don’t occur during your 12-day trip.
The breathtaking aurora borealis are a natural phenomenon that should be at the top of everyone’s bucket list and there is no one better equipped to show you the lights
than Hurtigruten!
South Atlantic Ocean
A m e r i c a
as you watch the vibrant greens and purples dancing across the sky, twisting and turning in dramatic ebbs and ows, you can’t help but
be amazed. N o r t h
All who witness the aurora borealis become captivated
under their spell, trans xed by their awe- inspiring and magical display. This is the greatest showOocn earathnand no two performances are ever the same.
With 125 years sailing under the Northern Lights, Hurtigruten have proved themselves to be the experts. Their comfortable and intimate ships will take you far from any arti cial lights, where the snow topped mountains and rippling sea will provide the perfect backdrop for the magni cent displays of colour and light.
EQUATOR Whilst on board a Hurtigruten ship, rather than having to go outinsearchofthelights,theywiAllmcoamz oentoyou.Youcanrelax ondeckorinthepanoramalounRgaeiansfyoorueswt atchthelights blaze across the Arctic Sky, appearing in bursts and strands of
South America
Ocean
SOUTH AMERICA
Photo courtesy of Jann Olav Hansen - MS Nordlys - 14 October
expanding the boundaries
november 2017
Atlantic
ANTARCTICA
With a Hurtigruten voyage along the Norwegian coast, the aurora borealis comes to you. Here’s why a journey with us is the best way to experience the Northern Lights.
NORWAY’S NORTHERN LIGHTS
NORTH CAPE N 71°
12 DAYS
5/6 DAYS
T I
Classic Round Voyage
Bergen to Kirkenes to Bergen
DEPARTURE DATES
Manchester: 29th January 2018, 10th February 2018, 23rd February 2018, 14th March 2018,
28th March 2018
Glasgow: 16th November 2017, 20th February 2018
Newcastle: 3rd March 2018
Arctic Highlights
Tromsø to Kirkenes to Tromsø
DEPARTURE DATES
Dublin: (6 day itinerary) 23rd February 2018
Manchester: (5 day itinerary) 17th February 2018,
28th February 2018
Manchester: (6 day itinerary) 13th March 2018
CALL 0208 846 2666 |
VISIT www.hurtigruten.co.uk | CONTACT your travel agent
Terms and conditions: From prices quoted are in GBP and are per person, based on full occupancy of an inside two-berth cabin. Single supplements apply. Cabins and excursions are subject to availability. Hurtigruten operates a flexible pricing system and prices are capacity controlled, correct at time of booking. Not included: travel insurance, luggage handling, international flights (unless otherwise stated), optional excursions or optional gratuities. Flights booked with Hurtigruten are ATOL protected (ATOL 3584), economy, and include all current taxes and charges. All itineraries are subject to change due to local conditions. See website for full itineraries. Full terms and conditions apply to the Northern Lights Promise. Full booking terms and conditions available online at www.hurtigruten.co.uk
Øksfjord Lyngenfjord
Kjøllefjord Båtsfjord
Kristiansund Ålesund
Trondheim
Torvik Måløy
Molde
Florø Bergen
Geirangerfjord Hjørundfjord
Stamsund
Nesna Sandnessjøen
Brønnøysund Rørvik
Oslo
Risøyhamn Sortland
Finnsnes Harstad
Stokmarknes Svolvær
Bodø Ørnes
Skjervøy Tromsø
Kirkenes
Hammerfest
Vardø Vadsø
Honningsvåg Havøysund
Mehamn Berlevåg
Trollfjord
N I
3' C
°3
66 C
E
L
C
R
A
R
C
NORWAY
© Gaute Bruvik
© Claire Netting
© Beatrice Aeberli
northernlIghtS feature
Finnair increases
capacity to Lapland
finnair has announced that it will start ying non-stop from the Uk to kittilä, in Lapland, in addition to the previously announced new service to ivalo. The new direct service will link London gatwick and kittilä once a week from 12th december 2017 until 20th march 2018.
Take a soaring trip of a lifetime, with omega holidays!
The Aurora Borealis, or as more commonly known, the Northern Lights, is a natural light show resulting from an interaction between the magnetic elds of the Earth and the Sun. The aurora’s appearance can vary from a weak glow to a breathtaking, sky– lling spectacle, and even though the best views may be had from ground level, visibility can be hampered by surrounding light pollution, bad weather or an inconveniently cloudy night.
We all know that everyone wants to see the Aurora Borealis but does not necessarily the time for a week’s cruise around the Arctic or a husky sled ride through Norway.
This exclusive deal from Omega Holidays takes you from Newcastle, Glasgow or Edinburgh on a round-trip ight above the cloud layer and up towards the Arctic Circle.
As we have just passed the solar maximum, (when the
Sun’s magnetic eld lines are the most distorted), displays between September and March are much more likely for the next year or so. You also get a spectacular show of stars plus a pre- ight illustrated presentation and expert information from our guest in- ight astronomers. It’s de nitely the experience of a lifetime!
Our ights also aim to eliminate some of the factors which may spoil a land–based aurora–watching experience. Firstly, by ying to the northern edge of British airspace, at a height of 35,000–40,000 feet, we can position ourselves within sight of the location where the aurora normally occurs.
At that height we are above the earth’s weather systems, so there is no rain or cloud to impede a sighting. In addition, our viewing location is well away from man–made light sources, way up north near the Shetland Islands.
We also plan the dates of our ights to coincide with darker times in the Moon’s phases too – although very beautiful in its own right, the Moon is a source of natural light pollution and its presence can reduce the aurora’s visibility. Having planned the ights carefully and with as many aircra lights turned o as regulations allow, we are also rewarded with a stunning view of the stars and constellations.
If you’ve never seen the Milky Way before, this is a great way to do it - unless there’s a bright aurora hiding it from view
of course!
Lapland is best known for o ering a range of winter activities including searching for the Northern Lights, skiing, ice shing, husky safaris and reindeer sleigh rides. Finnair will operate a weekly ight between London Gatwick and Kittilä on Tuesdays, with the ights operated by Airbus A320 aircra .
“There is increased interest towards Finland and especially Lapland as tourist destinations, and we are excited to be able to o er this new non-stop service from London direct to Kittilä in addition to the Ivalo service,” said Andrew Fish, General Manager, UK, Ireland and Benelux.
Finnair connects travellers via Helsinki to ve additional Lapland airports with several weekly connections and timetables designed to support smooth connections from the UK. Finnair is also growing its capacity to several Lapland airports for the winter
2017 season.
Between 1st January and 24th March, Finnair will add four weekly frequencies to Rovaniemi on Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, operating the route up to ve times daily from Helsinki. Kuusamo will see a 23 percent growth in seat capacity with
three additional weekly frequencies on Mondays, Saturdays and Sundays. These ights will be operated mostly with Embraer 190 aircra .
In addition, the daily triangle ight between Helsinki, Ivalo and Kittilä in the a ernoon during the last winter season, will now be operated as non-stop ights on both the Helsinki-Ivalo and Helsinki-Kittilä routes. The ights will be operated with a mix of Airbus aircra .
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expanding the boundaries
november 2017
in search of the
Northern Lights
EVENING EXCURSION WITH OUR EXPERT ASTRONOMERS
FLY FROM Newcastle - 9 March Glasgow - 10 March Edinburgh - 11 March
Price Includes
Flight in search of the Northern Lights
of approximately three hours
Pre- ight illustrated presentation by our guest astronomers Services of our astronomers on board
Airport taxes
A 3-hour flight to the stars! We will fly north to a vantage point in the skies with
hopefully spectacular views of the Aurora Borealis. This unique package also includes an interesting and informative pre-flight talk by our guest astronomers and their expert guidance once on board.
For more information and to book, please call reservations on 01524 772 010 or book online at www.tradesales.omega-holidays.com
Omega Holidays plc, ABTA V4782, ATOL Protected 6081. Subject to availability. Important note: the Northern Lights are natural phenomena which cannot be guaranteed to occur during our ight, although they have been visible on many previous outings. Our guest astronomer advises at least an 80% chance of a sighting.
Travel Matters Advert.indd 1 03/11/2017 15:33:01
£219.95 per person
Makes an ideal
Christmas present!
northernlIghtS feature
The Magic of Lapland
A visit to Lapland not only o ers the chance to glimpse the spectacle of the Northern Lights but also a great choice of outdoor winter activities, including skiing and snowboarding.
There are around 75 ski resorts in Finland, but the large resorts all lie in the fells of Lapland. The four main ones – Levi, Ylläs, Pyhä- Luosto and Ruka – o er everything from kids’ runs to black slopes, snow parks to backcountry exploring. The season starts in late October, with high season beginning in February, until the snow melts in early May.
Levi is one of the most popular ski resorts in Finland and o ers two snow parks, a variety of slopes for skiers and snowboarders as well as a lively village centre, lled with restaurants, bars, shops, a bowling alley and spa. The resort is easily accessed through Kittilä airport just a few minutes’ drive away.
In search of Santa
Claus with Transun
With christmas just around the corner, why not take your children for a day-trip to the wilderness of finnish Lapland’s far north?
Transun’s one-day Winter Wonderland trips run throughout December until Christmas Eve, with convenient departures from airports throughout the UK. Upon arrival at the airport, you will be met by a Transun representative and whisked through snowy forests and past frozen lakes to a scenic winter wonderland!
With a thermal suit and boots provided, you then head into the snow for an action-packed day in search of Santa’s hideaway cabin.
Priced from £499 per person, the day trip includes return ights and transfers, thermal suits and boots, a private family meeting with Santa, small gi for children from Santa, a husky experience, a taster snowmobile adventure, a reindeer sleigh ride, hot lunch and snow activities including tobogganing.
Lapland’s ski centres also o er many more activities including cross country skiing, ice shing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, husky tours and reindeer rides. One of the best ways to enjoy the winter landscape has to be on a husky safari or a reindeer
sleigh ride!
An icon of Finnish Lapland, the number of reindeer in the province roughly equals that of people and a ride enables you to get up close to the fabled animal. However, the sleigh ride is not simply a tourist attraction, but an ancient Sámi way of getting around and each and every animal is owned by a herder. Rides can last from 10 minutes to an exhilarating safari and a glide through a snowy forest is sure to be magical, for both adults and children alike!
With its remarkable light conditions, silvery forests, snow-laden trees and white covered wilderness, on a visit to Lapland you soon begin to understand why the Finns use the term “Lapin taika” - “the Magic of Lapland”.
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northernlIghtS feature
Visit undiscovered northern Iceland on a direct charter from Edinburgh with Super Break
Agents in Scotland have a great opportunity to promote Super Break’s ‘incredible iceland’ packages to Akureyri in northern iceland, on a direct ight from edinburgh.
Each short break includes return ights, hotel accommodation, overseas transfers, 20kg of baggage and two excursions worth £200. These are a Northern Lights tour and a Lake Myvatn Adventure – Land of Fire and Ice Tour, which includes the chance to see the region’s many magical terrains, the Goddafoss Waterfall, the boiling mud pools of Nama all and a stop at Voga os working farm.
In addition, extra optional experiences can be added such as a lava walk, beer spa, Icelandic horse riding or whale watching with the region’s resident humpback whales and dolphins. Wendy Cameron, business development manager for Scotland at Super Break comments: “This really is a rst for us and shows our commitment to supplying agents with unique and appealing product for them to sell.
“We know that northern Iceland is not reachable by a direct ight from Scotland or anywhere in the UK. Therefore we are really keen for agents to get behind it and o er something new and di erent to their customers. We all know the demand that seeing the Northern Lights creates and the beauty of these short breaks is that they o er so many other unique and exciting experiences.”
Throughout November, Super Break is o ering agents in Scotland the chance to win a
‘FRIDAY NIGHT OUT’ package for two in the UK city of the agent’s choice.
The competition is simple - the rst agent to make four ‘Incredible Iceland’ bookings and email [email protected] with the booking references will win!
Previously unreachable direct from the UK, this exciting destination is located just 62km from the Arctic Circle and is the perfect base from which to explore the natural beauty that northern Iceland o ers.
For the rst time, Super Break will be chartering its own aircra for this programme. The package departure is on 15th January 2018 for four nights and prices lead-in at £749pp.
november 2017
31
ANCHORAGE
VANCOUVER
EDMONTON
SEATTLE PORTLAND
DENVER MINNEAPOLIS / ST. PAUL
DALLAS
CHICAGO
TORONTO CLEVELAND
WASHINGTON D.C.
MONTREAL
BOSTON HALIFAX
PHILADELPHIA NEW YORK
JFK & NEWARK
FLY DIRECT FROM GLASGOW,
ABERDEEN AND BELFAST To 20 gateways in North America
TAMPA BAY ORLANDO
Enjoy the option of a Stopover in Iceland for up to 7 days at no extra airfare
HELSINKI
STOCKHOLM TRONDHEIM
OSLO GOTHENBURG
BERGEN COPENHAGEN STAVANGER
BILLUND BERLIN
HAMBURG FRANKFURT
ICELAND
ABERDEEN MUNICH GLASGOW AMSTERDAM
MANCHESTER BRUSSELS ZURICH
BELFAST DUBLIN
BIRMINGHAM MILAN LONDON PARIS GENEVA
HEATHROW ORLY & CDG & GATWICK
MADRID
newS
View from the Bridge...
There is no better feeling than getting a ‘reluctant to cruise client’ booked on a ship and then have them return to say they had the time of their life!
As I have mentioned in a previous edition, ship visits are a great way to get reluctant cruisers over the line. A ship visit allows them to see the incredible product rst hand - the facilities, the food, the service - and gives them a real sense of what a cruise o ers.
I had a case recently - two sisters - who took several short breaks a year and whenever I asked if they had ever thought about a cruise holiday, they always answered, “not really!”. I decided to try to convert them and searched for a cruise line that might match their requirements. A er much research, I decided that they were perfectly suited to Holland America Line.
I contacted the HAL sales sta and arranged to take the two sisters on board the Ms Koningsdam and le them to wander at their leisure around the ship. I also pre-arranged a table for two at the window for their lunch and invited them to attend the cruise presentation on board.
Within 48 hours they had made a booking for that ship and as a consequence, have now booked another two cruises with HAL in 2018!
As normal with rst timers, they asked a lot of questions, especially about what life was like on board, which cabin they should choose, what could they do in the ports, any recommendations on tours, things to see and do etc.
A good knowledgeable travel agent who can de ne the passenger experience, both on and o the ship, will hopefully, be successful and convert that sale! And who knows, maybe your new clients will also tell their friends and family about the great holiday you booked for them!
of the
Cruise
our pick of the best cruise sales opportunities
Month...
Amazing 3, 4 and 7-night greek island cruises with celestyal cruises
As agents, we are always on the look-out for a great new product, something that is a bit di erent, that can be creatively put together and then sold in volume with a good margin.
Well, why not take a look at Celestyal Cruises? For Summer 2018 they have two ships cruising ex Piraeus around the stunning Greek Islands on some fantastic itineraries. The Crystal
(ex Leeward of NCL) o ers 7-night cruises and the Olympia
(ex Thomson Destiny) o ers 3 and 4-night cruises.
With direct ights from Edinburgh to Athens with Aegean (and great onward connections to all the major islands including Santorini) as well as easyJet ights, you can create some excellent cruise and stay options at great value pricing for couples, singles, families and groups. With a casual dress code and no formal nights, they can relax and enjoy some amazing evenings ashore in the Greek Islands. The cruises are all- inclusive with tips also included, so one less thing to worry about too!
itineraries include:
CRYSTAL - 7 nights - Monday to Monday:
Mykonos (24 hour stay); Milos (1pm to midnight);
Santorini (27 hour stay!); Heraklion (7am to 8.30pm); Kusadasi
OLYMPIA - 3 nights - Friday to Monday:
Mykonos; Kusadasi; Patmos; Heraklion; Santorini
OLYMPIA - 4 nights - Monday to Friday:
Mykonos; Kusadasi; Patmos; Rhodes; Santorini
34
Celestyal have hired Andy Magowan to lead their UK sales e ort.
Contact him via email: [email protected] for further information.
expanding the boundaries
november 2017
Our seven day All-Inclusive Cruise
Explore the authentic Cuba and experience the diversity of its riches like never before. Our seven day All-Inclusive cruise is a unique opportunity to experience the country's history, landscapes and culture in a comfortable and seamless travel environment.
From the friendly service and our famous authentic on board hospitality, to your exceptional daily shore excursions using the best local guides and operators, this is a chance to experience the authentic Cuba with all your senses.
Itinerary schedule Day Port
Mon Havana (Cuba)
Tue Havana (Cuba)
Wed At Sea
Thu Cienfuegos (Cuba)
Fri Montego Bay (Jamaica) Sat Santiago de Cuba
Sun At Sea
Mon Havana (Cuba)
Departure dates
Nov 06, 13, 20, 27 Dec 04, 11, 18, 25 Jan 01, 08, 15, 22, 29 Feb 05, 12
Arrival Depart
- -
- 22:00 - -
07:00 15:00 08:00 20:00 07:00 15:00 -- 08:00
Prices
Inside: £629 Outside: £899
The Celestyal Inclusive Experience
• Three meals per day, made with love and care with the nest local ingredients
• Enjoy a special collection of branded beverages that suit your preferences
• Our handpicked excursions guarantee you’ll see the best of our destinations
• Our specially designed entertainment programme is suitable for all ages and tastes
• Port and service charges are included in the nal price of your ticket
• With all gratuities included in the fare, your cruise experience is complete
For further details of this outstanding offer and for information how to promote all Celestyal Cruises, please contact Andrew Magowan on:
07770 848023
or email: [email protected]
Book by 30th November 2017. Offer is valid for new, individual bookings only. Not combinable with any other offers/discounts/promotions. Reduced rate space is capacity controlled and may be withdrawn at any time with, or without notice. Celestyal Cruises reserves the right to add, change or modify reduced rate conditions at any time, without noti cation. Celestyal Cruises Deposit and Cancellation standard policies apply based on the booking/sailing date. Offer and combinability with other promotional offers is subject to change at any time per Celestyal Cruises’ discretion. Other restrictions may apply. Celestyal Cruises ©2017.
Seven Day Cruises around Cuba
Four destinations 29 available excursions Prices from £629pp
The authentic Cuban experience
the
secret success
doreen hellenS
BROADWAY TRAVEL
A er completing my studies at 19 years old, i joined a local North east automotive company as a Personal Assistant. ever since i was 12 years old, i had always thought that this was going to be my ideal job! The role gave me the opportunity to develop my organisation skills
by coordinating the day to day activities of the managing director and the executive team.
However, my career in travel started in 2002 when I joined the Hays Travel Group as PA to the Managing Director. I had always had a passion for travel and to be given the opportunity to work in such a vibrant industry was a dream come true!
Within a short period of time, my organisational skills were recognised and I was promoted to PA to the full board
of directors. This involved project work for the board as well as being involved with acquisitions for the group. I was
also responsible for organising all events, including Christmas parties and annual overseas conferences.
At the time I didn’t realise that this role would help me to develop my commercial abilities as well as my relationship building skills, as I met with a number of inspiring people from the travel industry, many of whom I still have fantastic working relationships with today!
A er 12 years with Hays Travel I felt I needed more of a challenge but wanted to stay within the industry. In 2014 the role of Commercial & Events Manager at Broadway Travel became available and
I felt it was too good an opportunity to miss! Having heard such positive things about the company, its ethos and strategy, I took the plunge and became part of the Broadway Travel family.
For the rst year, I was solely responsible for all of the commercials. A er two years, due to the expansion of Broadway Travel (which is now a £200M+ turnover business), I was promoted to Head
of Commercial. I am now part of the Senior Management team where I work alongside the Board of Directors to help run the business operationally, which is a huge achievement for me.
I lead a successful team of four and I
am responsible for the commercial negotiations and relationships with our suppliers to ensure I get the best terms for the group including fantastic overrides and sta incentives. I also make sure that commercial agreements not only meet the legal requirements for both our clients and the company’s protection, but also meet the legal requirements required by the CAA and ABTA. I have spent many years building strong relationships with our suppliers and I see this as being a fundamental part of the role and essential to the success of our business.
Myself and my team are also the hub for organising events, including conferences, managers meetings and any other event that may need to be organised throughout the year.
I feel my biggest challenge is my own self-belief and having the courage of my convictions to know I can do the job!
However, Jill Mitchell, Chief Operating O cer at Broadway Travel has been instrumental in my career development, as she has seen my potential, provided encouragement and given me a con dence boost whenever needed!
I would say that the secret to my success is building relationships with people - as Theodore Roosevelt once said: “The most important single ingredient in the formula of success is knowing how to get along with people” and I certainly agree
with that!
“ The most important single ingredient in the formula of success is knowing how to get along with people.
difficuLt roads often Lead to beautifuL Locations...
“
36
expanding the boundaries
november 2017
of my
OUR MAN IN THE NORTH REPORTS ON...
RIVER! I sailed on Crystal Mozart this summer and was completely blown away – dare I say, the best cruise experience ever. If you’ve never taken a river cruise then make sure 2018 is the year that you do. It really is wonderful to meander along Europe’s waterways and dock right in the midst of some of the most iconic cities in the world. This year, the Crystal River Cruises fleet increased to three luxurious yachts...and in 2018, we’ll increase that to five. With more overnights, outstanding farm-to-table cuisine and butler service in every suite it really is something special. To find out more, give me a call.
If you would like to learn more about Crystal Cruises, just give me a call or send me an email: 07841 921533 | [email protected]
EASTERN DANUBE DISCOVERIES
SPLENDORS OF THE RHINE
ROUND-TRIP VIENNA
Voyage # RMZ180429-11
Crystal Mozart | 29 April 2018 | 11 nights
Highlights: Vienna (overnight), Esztergom, Vukovar, Belgrade, Novi Sad, Mohács, Kalocsa, Budapest, Bratislava and Vienna (overnight).
Fares from £4,271 per person cruise only
AMSTERDAM TO BASEL
Voyage # RDB180803-10
Crystal Debussy | 3 August 2018 | 10 nights Highlights: Amsterdam (2 overnights), Cologne, Koblenz (overnight), Rüdesheim, Speyer, Kehl, Breisach and Basel (overnight).
Fares from £4,347 per person cruise only
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION OR TO BOOK PLEASE CALL:
O20 7399 7604
www.crystalcruises.co.uk
ABTA No.V8548
Fares are per person, cruise only in UK sterling based on double occupancy in a lead-in stateroom for the first two full-fare guests and include port, security and handling charges, which vary by departure. All fares, offers and itineraries are subject to change and availability and can be withdrawn at any time. Fares may fluctuate and should be used as a guide only. Prices may go up or down. You should contact us on 0207 399 7604 before booking, or visit our website www.crystalcruises.co.uk. The fares are available to new bookings only and are only available to UK & Eire residents. Restrictions apply. See crystalcruises.co.uk for complete terms and conditions of all offers. (c) 2015 Crystal Cruises, Inc., Ships' registry: The Bahamas.
Jon Schofield
newS
The Canny Lad...
dARReN PhiLLiPS
Hi everyone! Well, it’s nearly that time
of year again, something that we all look forward to for months! No, not Christmas.... The GRAFTAS!!! Yes, it’s time to put on your glad rags, slip into those high heels and slap on the make up... oh and ladies, you can get dressed up too!
Voting forms have now been emailed to
all agents to vote for your favourite tour operators and reps. The decision is in your hands guys... If you have not received your voting form, please contact me at darren@ dptravel.co.uk and I will sort it for you. We don’t want you to miss out on your chance to vote!
Thursday 14th December is this year’s date for the North East’s glitzy awards night, celebrating the best of the talent we have here in the North. Our sponsors this year
include Jet2holidays, Silversea Cruises, DFDS, Emirates, 3For and Tuxedo Money Solutions.
The evening starts with pre-dinner drinks at 7pm, kindly sponsored by Silversea Cruises in the main foyer of the Hilton Hotel Newcastle/Gateshead. A photobooth, kindly sponsored by DFDS, will be there too, so make good use of it!
We will then head into the main hall for dinner about 7:45pm, a three-course meal will be served, followed by co ee and then the Awards ceremony gets underway about 9:30pm, with 15 awards handed out to travel agents and tour operators.
A erwards, it’s time for the disco which carries on until about 12:30am. Don’t miss out on the chip butties served about
11:30pm - Midnight, kindly sponsored by Jet2holidays and then it’s last orders at the bar about 1:00am!
It’s going to be another great night of celebration and I look forward to seeing you all there!
darren
Ship
if you have discerning clients looking for a cruise of quality and distinction, perhaps considering a smaller ship, but still looking for good value for money, why not recommend oceania cruises and their superb ship, The Nautica.
Your clients will really appreciate the ne dining, extraordinary service, country club surroundings and the great attention to detail. The ship’s decor is a throwback to the great ocean liners of yesteryear and she oozes comfort, style and grace, o ering an elegant, relaxed atmosphere on board.
Oceania proudly proclaims that they o er the nest cuisine at sea and the food quality, presentation and style is hugely impressive. There are four gourmet restaurants on board - all with open seating - allowing guests to dine where, when and with whom they
wish and at NO additional charge whatsoever. Complimentary unlimited so drinks, bottled water, cappuccino, espresso, teas are served throughout the ship and in all cabins. Without any formal nights to worry about, clients can simply relax and leave the formal attire at home.
Nautica carries just 684 guests, sailing on superbly cra ed port intensive itineraries with overnight visits and extended evening port stays. Free shuttles from ship to city centres are also provided in many ports.
So be sure to suggest an Oceania cruise to your clients. Tell them about the quality, the incredible dining experience and the amazing places they will visit - they will not be disappointed!
38
expanding the boundaries
november 2017
of the Month...
The Nautica - for travel connoisseurs
What a year for If Only...
• SPAA Independent Long Haul Operator of the Year
• SPAA Luxury Tour Operator of the Year
• Introduction of our USA programme
• Introduction of
our new online reservation system
• Our staff levels up over 25%
Thanks to all of our Scottish agents
for their support in making this year such a success.
Call our Destinations Specialists on
0141 955 4000
View from the Tower
It’s a tough world in the aviation business, with European carriers such as Air Berlin and Alitalia facing an uphill battle to survive and with the recent demise of Monarch Airlines.
The Monarch Airlines collapse in October was the biggest airline failure in the history of British aviation. Some 1,800 sta were le without jobs and 110,000 passengers were stranded abroad. In addition, 750,000 future bookings were cancelled.
In the USA, the big boys United Airlines, Delta Airlines and American Airlines have been swallowing up their competitors - citing synergies and cost savings. Who remembers Northwest Airlines,
US Airways, Piedmont, Virgin America, America West, TWA and Pan Am - all fell victim to the market conditions which made them vulnerable to takeovers by the cost accountants.
One thing is certain, further consolidation is on the cards and probably sooner rather than later. All we can do is speculate and watch with interest as to who the winners and losers will be.
Aircra manufacturers Boeing, Airbus and Bombardier have coexisted perfectly happily for many years. However, this situation has now drastically changed and seems to have ‘exploded’ under
the Trump administration. With the imposition of import tari s of 220% on Bombardier, Trump’s ‘America First’ policy now threatens to end these special relationships as well as igniting an almighty row between US, British and Canadian governments over who is subsidised by who.
If this dispute runs on, it not only threatens these relationships but more importantly, it could threaten British jobs. Bombardier employs some 4,000 sta at its Belfast factory and Boeing is also a major employer in the UK.
Let’s hope it doesn’t come to that.
SEND US YOUR COMMENTS
You can’t have a mid-life crisis in the airline industry, because every day is a crisis....
Herb Kelleher, Southwest Airlines
40
expanding the boundaries
november 2017
We would love to hear from you! Email [email protected]
newS
CheCk-in with...
Take o with...
flybe franchise partner Stobart Air has launched a new daily service between glasgow and London Southend airports.
The service will now operate up to nine ights per week during the winter season using a 118-seat Embraer aircra , with double daily ights on Mondays and Fridays. From May, the service will operate 12 ights per week, with a double daily service Monday to Friday and one rotation at weekends.
Paul White, Glasgow Airport’s business development manager, said: “London is easily the most popular destination for our passengers, so the introduction of this new route by Flybe franchise partner Stobart Air is great news.
“We’re pleased to also establish our rst link with London Southend Airport. The introduction of the new service means that our passengers now have access to more than 32 ights per day to six airports based in and around London.”
Southend Airport has a dedicated train station, with easy rail access to central London (Stratford in 45 mins/London Liverpool Street in 52 mins).
Lu hansa continues to lead the way for Scottish travellers and now o ers four ights per week from glasgow to munich.
As well as providing direct links to and from both Frankfurt and Munich, the services also o er the country’s quickest and easiest onward connections to Lu hansa’s network of over 400 global destinations, which includes around 60 of the world’s key oil and energy markets in Europe, Africa, the Middle East, Asia and
the Americas.
Lu hansa also continues to enhance the on board experience
for customers travelling Business Class in Europe and o ers
many bene ts. Wi-Fi connectivity is being introduced across the Lu hansa short-haul eet to ensure you will always be connected. If however, you want to relax, the middle seat is always le free on European ights with Lu hansa.
In addition to the traditional economy, business and some rst class cabins, Scottish passengers who take onward connections now have the added option of a high quality premium economy product on Lu hansa long-haul services.
The new seat is wider and can be tilted further back so has increased personal space by about half compared to Economy.
A separate wide armrest for each seat and a centre console between the seats also ensures extra privacy. The adjustable headrest can be folded at the sides and gives comfortable support. Height adjustable footrests from the second row and - for design reasons - leg supports with integrated footrest in the front row provide additional comfort.
Premium Economy passengers also bene t from twice as much free baggage allowance as in Economy Class with two pieces
of luggage up to 23 kg each. An upgraded on board experience also allows them to control the extensive in- ight entertainment programme with their own touch-screen (screen size from 11 to 12 inches - 28 to 30 centimetres). Each seat also o ers a USB port and an electrical outlet so passengers can use their own devices.
aLways take the scenic route
november 2017
41
Spaa 25th annual travel awardS
42
HOLIDAY AWARDS
Short Haul Tour Operator of the Year
WinnEr Jet2holidays independent Short Haul Tour Operator of the Year WinnEr Classic Collection Holidays Touring & Adventure Company of the Year WinnEr G Adventures
Ski Company of the Year
WinnEr Ski Independence Luxury Tour Operator of the Year WinnEr If Only... independentLongHaulTourOperatoroftheYear WinnEr If Only...
TECHNOLOGY/ GROUND & SERVICE
AWARDS
Agency Sales Support Team of the Year
WinnEr Emirates
Travel Technology Supplier of the Year
WinnEr Travelport Car Hire Supplier of the Year
WinnEr A ordable Car Hire rail Operator of the Year
WinnEr Virgin Trains Holiday Essentials Supplier of the Year
WinnEr Attraction World Consolidator of the Year
WinnEr Travel2 AGENCY
AWARDS
Large Business Agency of the Year
WinnEr Clyde Travel Management Small Business Agency of the Year
WinnEr Jigsaw Travel Homeworker of the Year
WinnEr Fiona Bibby Large Leisure Agency of the Year
WinnEr Stewart Travel - Ayr Small Leisure Agency of the Year
WinnEr Glen Travel expanding the boundaries
CRUISE & FERRY AWARDS
Ocean Cruise Company of the Year
WinnEr Celebrity Cruises Luxury Cruise Company of the Year
WinnEr Celebrity Cruises Specialist Cruise Company of the Year
WinnEr Hurtigruten river Cruise Company of the Year
WinnEr Scenic and Emerald Waterways Ferry Company of the Year
WinnEr DFDS
AIRLINE AWARDS
Holiday Airline of the Year
WinnEr Jet2.com Domestic Airline of the Year
WinnEr British Airways European Airline of the Year
WinnEr KLM Transatlantic Airline of the Year
WinnEr United Airlines Worldwide Airline of the Year
WinnEr Emirates EDINBURGH
AIRPORT - AIRLINE CUSTOmER SERVICE AWARD
2017
WinnEr Turkish Airlines
GLASGOW AIRPORT - BEST AIRLINE OF THE
YEAR 2017
WinnEr Virgin Atlantic/Delta Air Lines
HOTELS/ SHORT BREAKS & UK HOLIDAYS
AWARDS
Hotel Booking/Accommodation Supplier of the Year WinnEr SuperBreak
Hotel & resort Operator of the Year
WinnEr DoubleTree by Hilton UK Holiday Operator of the Year
WinnEr SuperBreak European City Break Supplier of the Year
WinnEr SuperBreak
REPRESENTATIVE AWARDS
Leisure representative of the Year
WinnEr Drew Stewart Drew Stewart Associates
Cruise representative of the Year
WinnEr Mandy Burrie Celebrity Cruises
Airline representative of the Year
WinnEr Shirley Saadi Emirates
SPAA TRAVEL
QUIZ 2017
WinnEr ‘The Salt Magyars’ : Kenneth Macleod Travel
LIFETImE ACHIEVEmENT
AWARD
Drew Stewart
november 2017
From everyone at Travel 2...
We are very honoured to have been voted
Best Consolidator at the SPAA Travel Awards 2017. Thank you to everyone who voted for Travel 2!
The UK’s 100% Trade Only Tour Operator – book online 24/7 at www.travel2.com or call Reservations FREE on 0800 0224 182
Spaa 25th annual travel awardS
Years
Voice of Travel in Scotland...
it’s been 25 years since i joined SPAA council as the very rst ever lady member and the industry has changed massively.
As an association, we have embraced things like the growth of homeworkers and the march of technology. However, our aim always remains the same - to represent the travel agent community and its interests at the highest level.
It’s been really exciting to watch our Associate Members scheme go from strength to strength.
We currently have 85 Associate Members and they can engage both commercially as well as socially, with our agency
Janice Hogarth celebrates 25 years with SPAA
members at our social functions and events.
Our Council
Members
have great
and varied
knowledge,
contacts and
experience
and we represent all of Scotland geographically, allowing us to speak with one voice and with authority. We have never been afraid to be direct, say what we think and state our case both publicly and behind the scenes, no matter who we were up against!
Past Presidents...
over the past 25 years, I have had the privilege to work with some great characters!
Roy Brabender was quite an imposing person who was hugely respected and revered by everyone who met him! Likewise, Douglas Geddes. They both achieved great things on behalf of the SPAA.
Dennis Hart and Duncan Cameron
had larger than life personalities, were great fun, always professional and were amazing ambassadors for the Association. Sandy MacPherson, Willie Stewart and Kevin Thom all stand out in my memory as well.
Role of Secretary....
Looking back, i feel i have learnt so much over the years. I have been fortunate to work with many SPAA Presidents (almost as many as the Queen has had Prime Ministers!) and have learnt that you need to have a sense of humour, be diplomatic, have plenty of enthusiasm, be un appable under pressure and be able to deal with many di erent personalities!!
446
e
expanding the boundaries
november 2017
Biggest challenges...
The failure of intasun, globespan and the volcanic ash crisis were all dark days, but the agent community rose to the challenge, did itself proud, and helped clients - which is what we do best!
highlights...
There have been some fantastic SPAA trips over the years, hosted by the likes of BA, KLM and Travel 2. It’s trem-endous that in the travel industry, we get to mix business with pleasure!
It’s the same for the SPAA events - starting from humble beginnings, the SPAA Dinner, Summer Ball and Awards Night are all now considered some of the very best
and ‘must be there’ events in the industry calendar!
The future of SPAA....
In 2021, SPAA will have been in existence for 100 years! We will continue to evolve, be proactive and reactive and represent our members interests robustly. The travel business remains a great and fun business to work in and I wouldn’t want to work in any other industry!
THANK YOU TO ALL AGENTS WHO VOTED FOR US
William Young Regional Sales Manager for the North receiving the award
Scenic and Emerald Waterways WINNERS of Best River Cruise Company of the Year 2017
ONE STOP SHOP FOR RIVER CRUISES
S1590 Travel Matters Ad 277x190.indd 1 08/11/2017 15:33
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Spaa 25th annual travel awardS SnapSh tS...
SPAA ANNUAL TRAVeL AWARdS 25Th ANNiVeRSARy!
46
expanding the boundaries
november 2017
Spaa 25th annual travel awardS
At the SPAA Annual Travel Awards, the SPAA raised an incredible £7,000 for nominated SPAA charity, Mary’s Meals, which was then doubled to £14,000 by an anonymous donor!
What an achievement!
SPAA presented drew Stewart with a LifeTime AchieVemeNT
AWARd!
Congratulations Drew!
A huge thAnk you
to all the amazing airlines and operators who voted Jigsaw Travel as their favourite Small Business Travel Agent 2017!
We are completely overwhelmed to be in the company of so many great winners. Our travel partners are the most valued part of our business - without your great products we have nothing to sell, so thanks again....
you guys make us look good!
www.jigsawtravel.co.uk
Thanks To everyone who voTed for Glen Travel aT The
2017 sPaa annual Travel awards
We are delighted for the staff - it’s a fantastic recognition of their commitment and dedication.
We look forward to seeing you in our new premises!! ‘The Glens’
Glen Travel Ltd, 227 Glasgow Road, Blantyre G72 0YS
november 2017
47
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Travel Matters Issue 8 November 2017
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