Travel Matters September 2022 Issue 54

Rixos Premium Magawish Suites & Villas
*****
Hurghada, Egypt
Kenzi Club Agdal Medina *****
Marrakech, Morocco
Iberostar Selection Kuriat Palace *****
Hurghada, Egypt
Barcelo Lanzarote Active Resort ****
Costa Teguise, Lanzarote, Spain


NEWS
FINNAIR AND QATAR AIRWAYS ANNOUNCE PARTNERSHIP
Finnair and oneworld partner Qatar Airways have concluded an agreement to establish a long-term strategic cooperation between Helsinki, Stockholm and Copenhagen and Doha, with a view of opening more services between another European destination and Doha.
These services will be supported by a comprehensive codeshare agreement with shared passenger and cargo capacity between both airlines.
Customers from the three Nordic cities will benefit from seamless connections via Doha to Qatar Airways’ extensive network of around 100 destinations across Australasia, Asia, the Middle East and Africa. The collaboration will also open new destinations and connection opportunities across Finnair’s Nordic network for Qatar Airways’ customers.
CELEBRITY CRUISES LAUNCH NEW AGENT REWARDS SCHEME
Celebrity Cruises has launched a brand new ‘Celebrity Rewards Auctions’ scheme, giving agents the chance to put their reward points towards a range of prizes, including personal holidays.
Giving agents the opportunity to maximise the value of their Celebrity Rewards, they can also win a stateroom on a number of Celebrity Cruises’ ships, with auction reserve prices starting from £335 for a twin-share Balcony stateroom.
Agents can also redeem Celebrity Rewards points on special gifts for their clients’ staterooms with bottles of champagne or celebration cakes.
The cruise line also recently announced the reintroduction of ‘Earn On Every Booking’, following agent feedback during workshops held across the
UK and Ireland. Until 21st September, agents can
earn Celebrity Rewards on all bookings, from Inside staterooms to Suites. When making and registering
a booking through Celebrity Central, agents will earn £20 when booking the Retreat or Galapagos; £10 for a Balcony, Concierge, or AquaClass stateroom; and £5 for an Inside or Oceanview stateroom.
Visit www.celebritycentral.co.uk for more information.
Please nominate us as your Best Ski Company
We’d love your nomination to help us on the way to winning the Best Ski Company Award
E. [email protected] W. agents.inghams.co.uk
SP A A award.indd 1 01/09/2022 12:44
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ANNUAL TRAVEL
Scottish Passenger Agents’ Association
52 SEPTEMBER 2022


Come and try
the Ambassador experience for yourself ahead of our regional launch in 2023. So, join us and get away this autumn!
Autumn Fjordland
Departs London Tilbury 16 October 2022 - 7 nights Price from £280pp
Grand Mediterranean
Departs London Tilbury
23 October 2022 - 32 nights Price from £1,280pp
Canaries, Madeira & Morocco Winter Sun
Departs London Tilbury
24 November 2022 - 15 nights
Price from £600pp
Festive Market Getaway
Departs London Tilbury
18 December 2022 - 3 nights Price from £120pp
For more information and to book please contact the Trade Sales team: [email protected]
Visit ambassadorcruiseline.com Call 0808 102 8524
Terms and conditions apply, subject to limited availability.
Fares shown are based on two adults sharing a twin inside cabin.
Available on any 2022 sailing
From £40pp per night
15% discount on any drinks package
25% discount on port parking at London Tilbury
2023 sailings also available on Ambience up to 31 March ‘23 on cruises up to 15 nights
DISCOVER OUR GENT CONCESSION SCHEME


NEW YORK & LAS VEGAS
TAKE A TRIP TO DOWNTOWN VEGAS
The pedestrian-only stretch of road, Fremont Street in Downtown Las Vegas is home to vintage casinos, food joints and open-air bars and street performers.
For visitors worried that they might miss the dazzling lights of the Strip, Fremont Street also features an impressive light and sound show.
Located close by, The Mob Museum showcases
the history of organised crime in the US along with accompanying artefacts and stories. Interactive experiences include Crime Lab, for visitors to explore the work of forensic scientists and medical examiners, teaching them how to determine a crime scene and process its evidence.
For a bit of nostalgia, visitors should head to The Underground Speakeasy, a unique ‘secret’ bar that takes guests back in time to the Prohibition era, when speakeasies were secret and alcohol sales prohibited.
CRUISE & STAY WITH FRED HOLIDAYS
Fred. Holidays has launched two brand new packages for 2023 featuring stays in New York City and Toronto, with a seven-night Hudson River cruise to view the fall foliage in New York State.
The 11-night Fall Colours River Cruise & New York City trip starting with a three-night stay in Manhattan, is followed
by a seven-night cruise on the Hudson River calling in West Point, Kingston/Hyde Park, Albany, Catskill and Sleepy Hollow, before finishing with an overnight back in New York.
Departing the UK on
4th October 2023, prices start from £5,995 per person for return flights, overseas airport transfers, a three-night room only stay in Manhattan and
the seven-night cruise onboard the 100-guest American Independence with all meals.
NEW YORK UPGRADED.
DELTA PREMIUM SELECT
FROM EDINBURGH AND DUBLIN
Enjoy a superior experience on Delta’s flights to New York-JFK
Delta and its partners offer customers an extensive
network with daily flights to New York-JFK from Edinburgh, Manchester, Dublin and London-Heathrow and connections to over 200 destinations via Delta’s hubs. On board, customers can enjoy a variety of signature products including Delta One®, Delta Premium Select and Delta Comfort+®.
Delta Premium Select is the new superior cabin designed with enhanced comfort in mind. Offering an upgraded experience, the new cabin is available on Delta services from Dublin to New York-JFK and will feature on Delta’s flights from Edinburgh later this year. Delta Premium Select is also available on all Delta flights between London Heathrow and the United States.
PUT YOUR FEET UP - REALLY
Customers can settle in with a seat that is wider and offers more legroom and a deeper recline, with adjustable leg and footrests.
STAY ENTERTAINED
Larger seat-back screens feature over 1,000 hours of complimentary Delta Studio content including the latest movies, TV shows, podcasts, music and more, made more enjoyable thanks to noise-cancelling headsets.
RECLINE AND RECHARGE
When it’s time to sleep, customers can stretch out with
a comfortable blanket and pillow. A handy amenity kit features travel essentials including eyeshade, socks, lip balm, toothbrush and toothpaste. On the ground, access to select SkyPriority services, including check-in and baggage handling, helps expedite their airport experience.
54 SEPTEMBER 2022


TIME FOR A LITTLE ADVENTURE. NONSTOP TO
THE BIG APPLE.
Fly Delta Air Lines and Virgin Atlantic to New York-JFK from Dublin, Edinburgh, Manchester and London-LHR.


NEW YORK & LAS VEGAS
In conversation with...
FLETCH BRUNELLE
Vice President of Marketing
Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority
THE ENTERTAINMENT CAPITAL OF THE WORLD IS BACK
In 2019, Las Vegas welcomed a record 42 million visitors. In 2020, due to Covid, this decreased to
19 million - however in 2021 it recovered to 32 million.
This year is going to be a bumper year for the city due to huge pent up demand from both Domestic and International visitors as well as the vital conference incentive and meetings business.
WHAT IS DRIVING THE RECOVERY IN VISITOR NUMBERS?
Weekend business has recovered really well. We are seeing hotel occupancy rates of 90 to 95% from Friday to Sunday.
There is no doubt that world class events are also driving business.
The NASCAR Race enticed a huge number of fans to travel and see this great spectacle. The UFC Martial Arts event was massive for us and the Country Music Awards generated huge publicity and a worldwide audience for all that Las Vegas has to offer.
The Allegiant Stadium hosted the Music Awards in front of a huge sold out audience and it will also be hosting the NFL Games as well as music and other events.
It’s a fantastic addition to our portfolio of world class venues alongside the T Mobile Arena, allowing Las Vegas to host the best of the best. Watch out for the new Madison Square Garden Sphere Theatre currently under construction alongside the Palazzo Hotel.
We also hosted all the razzmatazz and media frenzy of the 2022 NFL player draft and will soon be hosting the Super Bowl itself!
TELL US MORE ABOUT THE FORMULA 1 NEWS
We were absolutely delighted to announce that in November 2023
all the glamour and excitement of Formula 1 will roll into Las Vegas for a race and entertainment experience that will need to be seen to
be believed.
Cutting right through the neon heart of the city - the night race will be
on a 3.8 mile track with the cars reaching over 200mph past world famous landmarks, hotels
and casinos.
The level of enquiries and interest we have received since the announcement has been incredible. This is a great opportunity for our trade partners to promote and sell to clients. Take a look at www.f1Lasvegasgrandprix.com to sign up for news and updates on this extravaganza.
ARE YOU HAPPY WITH THE CURRENT DOMESTIC AND INTERNATIONAL FLIGHT CAPACITY LEVELS?
In June 2022 Harry Reid Airport had its busiest ever month with a 22.9% increase over June 2021. Domestic capacity has fully recovered and we are seeing airlines adding additional frequencies and new routes to keep up with the demand as well as new carriers such as Breeze. European carriers have also returned and the direct British Airways and Virgin Atlantic flights from London are heavily booked.
WHAT IS YOUR MESSAGE TO THE TRAVEL TRADE?
Vegas is very much back in business - bigger and better than ever and is delighted to welcome back clients, old and new, for the stay of a lifetime!
56 SEPTEMBER 2022


STARGAZE IN NEVADA’S DARK SKIES
Home to some of the last remaining true dark skies on earth, with its wide open terrain, quiet surroundings and uninterrupted views, Nevada offers spectacular views of the constellations, planets and galaxies above.
With zero light pollution, Nevada’s Massacre Rim is one of only seven designated Dark Sky Sanctuaries in the world and where the Milky Way and Andromeda galaxies are clearly visible to the naked eye.
Another spot for the best stargazing in Nevada is Great Basin National Park which celebrates its 100 year anniversary this year, offering an extraordinary window to the universe, with its low humidity levels, minimal light pollution and high altitude.
For more information see travelnevada.com/stargazing
Bliss Wedding Chapel is the newest,full-service wedding venue on the Las Vegas Strip in 30 years!
Introductory wedding package rates with up to 40% commission
We offer our Signature weddings, The King weddings and on-location outdoor weddings.
Providing complete services including:
• Hand crafted fresh flowers
• Professional photography & video
• Luxury stretch limousines
• Vintage car service
• Luxury Rolls Royce transportation
• Dress and tux rentals
• Legal or non-legal ministerial service
and concierge planners
Bliss Wedding Chapel has a dedicated team with over 100 years of combined experience in the Las Vegas wedding industry, ready to serve you and
your clients.
Additionally, Bliss Chapel’s sister company, Bliss Beyond the Neon, provides wedding services in destinations such as the Grand Canyon, Valley of Fire, a ghost town and even inside helicopters over the Las Vegas Strip!
Dream it and the Chapel team will make it happen and your clients will live 'blissfully' ever after.
Email: [email protected] for more info or visit www.blisschapel.com
travelmatters.biz
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NEW YORK & LAS VEGAS
NEW DIRECT BA FLIGHT
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The three times weekly service, will commence 26th March 2023 to 28th October 2023, departing on Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays, operating on the Boeing 777-200 aircraft.
July saw the highest monthly visitation in Las Vegas since the start of the pandemic, with nearly 3.5 million visitors for the month and overall
hotel occupancy reaching 83.4%, with weekend occupancy exceeding 91% and midweek occupancy at 79.1%.
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atwick to Las Vegas' Harry Reid
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nternational Airport for the
ummer 2023 season.
to discover.
Whether it be a day trip or half-day excursion, Las Vegas has a choice of unique activities less than an hour from the Strip. With its dramatic scenery and breathtaking views, the Grand Canyon National Park is one of the most
u
DISCOVER THE NATURAL WONDERS OF LAS VEGAS
Las Vegas may be known as the entertainment capital of the world with its glamorous nightlife, fine dining and fabulous shows but there are also plenty of natural attractions for visitors
p
p
opular attractions for visitors to Las Vegas.
o
OTEL REFURBISHMENT PROGRAMME
Las Vegas hotel, New York-New York, has announced a $63 million (£52 million) refurb- ishment of 1,830 rooms and 155 of its suites.
Inspired by the excitement of Las Vegas and New York City - the newly designed rooms will feature exposed faux brick walls and accent colours such as New York City’s Big Apple Red and Taxicab Yellow. Other features will include moveable work surfaces, USB/USB-C power outlets and additional shelving and closet space.
“It’s an exciting time at New York-New York. We recently launched Cirque du Soleil’s Mad Apple show to tremendous feedback from our guests,” said Michael Neubecker, the resort’s President & COO.
"To embark on a remodel of our rooms and suites is the next step in keeping the resort fresh and giving guests new reasons to visit.
Completion of all guest rooms and Spa, Marquis and Players suites is scheduled for summer 2023 with the first collection of standard and premier rooms available for guest stays in late October 2022.
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Just 30 minutes from central Las Vegas, Red Rock Canyon National Conservation area features aztec sandstone and contrasting limestone hills, one of
the most striking natural spots in the Mojave Desert. There are a number of hiking trails that run through the area, through dramatic canyons and over the red rock hilltops or alternatively, visitors can take a 4X4 off-road adventure with Pink Adventure Tours for an open air exploration of Red Rock Canyon.
averick Helicopters offffer a ’Wind Dancer Sunset Tour’, taking guests from the heart of Las Vegas and flying 10 miles over the Canyon before descending 3,500 feet below the rim on Hualapai Indian Territory, where they are welcomed by a glass of champagne 300 feet above the Colorado River. There is also the option to explore the canyon from below, on a full-day whitewater rafting trip down the Colorado River with Advantage Grand Canyon.
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58 SEPTEMBER 2022


BEACHES
LIBERTY STATE PARK
ESCAPE TO NEW JERSEY, THE FEEL-GREAT STATE
Good-for-the-soul moments await in our world-famous destinations. Unwind on the Jersey Shore’s picture-perfect beaches and boardwalks. Be dazzled by Atlantic City’s casinos, live shows and nightlife.
Savor unique cuisine, the Anthony Bourdain Food Trail and 200+ wineries, breweries and distilleries. Enjoy eclectic shops and theme parks, like those at American Dream. Add in Ivy League Princeton, Victorian Cape May, American Revolution landmarks, top-rated golf and so much more!
Get your free offificial travel guide and explore at VisitNJ.org.
SHOPPING
CAPE MAY
ATLANTIC CITY
HIGH POINT
GET THE MOBILE APP
DINING
LUCY THE ELEPHANT


NEW YORK & LAS VEGAS
WELCOME TO NEW YORK CITY
For agents wanting to take a bite of the ‘Big Apple’, the NYC Go Pass offers exclusive savings throughout the five boroughs.
The NYC Go Pass is
great for exploring and discovering new products throughout the City and includes special offers available from select members to encourage agents to experience their services.
Upon application, the passport will be instantly delivered to your phone via text and email and is ready to use immediately. There is no app to download and the pass can be saved to your phone’s home screen for easy one-tap access.
When visiting a participating business, simply present your phone to the attendant or staff member to redeem available discounts.
For more info, visit www.nycgo.com/nycgo-pass#venues
EXPERIENCE STATEN ISLAND LIKE A NEW YORKER
NYC & Company has released its latest Get Local NYC campaign - Experience Staten Island Like a New Yorker - one of a number of initiatives to encourage visitors to explore more of New York City.
Reached by car or ferry, Staten Island offers a wide range of attractions, including Staten Island Zoo and Children’s Museum, the National Lighthouse Museum; the Jacques Marchais Museum of Tibetan Art; and the home of photographer Alice Austen, a New York City LGBTQ+ historic site.
Two ferry services connect Manhattan and Staten Island, including a free ferry from the Whitehall Ferry Terminal in Lower Manhattan (take the R train to Whitehall, the 4 or 5 to Bowling Green, or the 1 to South Ferry), or take a NYC Ferry ($2.75) from either of two Manhattan departure points: Midtown West/Pier 79 (near West 39th Street) and Battery Park City (follow Vesey Street west to the river in Lower Manhattan).
Both ferries dock at the St. George terminal on the Staten Island side. From the ferry terminal, visitors can catch a bus, taxi or hop on the Staten Island Railway, an aboveground train that runs from St. George on the island’s North Shore all the way to Tottenville on the South Shore.
The same MetroCard used on subways and buses in NYC’s other boroughs works for buses and the railway
on Staten Island. Express buses also run to Staten Island from Manhattan and Bay Ridge, Brooklyn. Visitors will also find 10,000 acres of parks and green spaces, plus miles of beaches, boardwalks and waterfront views.
60 SEPTEMBER 2022




VOTE FOR US
DFDS AMSTERDAM MINI CRUISE INCLUDING A FREE CANAL CRUISE THIS AUTUMN!
Hi everyone, it's Mark Henderson from DFDS here. I hope you all have had a fantastic summer!
If, like me, your customers are thinking about a short break after their main summer holiday, why not consider booking them on a 2-night Mini Cruise to Amsterdam with DFDS sailing from Newcastle.
Book before 8th October and they will receive a free hour-long Canal Cruise with Lovers Canal Cruises!
The Lovers ticket office is conveniently located just a short walk from where the DFDS transfer bus drops customers off. During their canal cruise, they can sit back, relax and listen to recorded audio whilst admiring all the beautiful sights
of Amsterdam. They will see the 16th and 17th Century merchant buildings (Amsterdam’s Golden Age), where trade flourished and was reflected in elaborately decorated facades.
VOTE FOR US!
We would be so grateful if you could
Vote For DFDS in the upcoming SPAA Awards.
We would also like to say a massive ‘Thank You’ for your continued support. We really do appreciate it.
Find out more about all our latest offers, including our popular Two-Night Mini Cruise to Amsterdam at www.dfds.co.uk
Or feel free to contact me with any
questions you may have:
Mark Henderson, Global Sales Manager, DFDS T: 0191 2936248 M: 0770 131 4263
Email: [email protected]
After an hour of exploration, they will arrive back at Central Station to finish the tour. There is still time to explore more of Amsterdam afterwards, before heading back to IJmuiden port for their last night onboard!
Prices start at just £74 per person and the free canal cruise offer is valid on selected departures until 29th December. Normal DFDS T&Cs apply.
For more details and to book, visit dfds.co.uk and log on to our agent home page. Thanks for your support and happy selling!
Mark
Call: 07701 314263 Email: [email protected]
62 SEPTEMBER 2022


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SMALLER IS BETTER
Our ships are smaller for several reasons. With fewer passengers, our crew can get to know each of our guests, and the atmosphere on board is always warm and civilised. The size of our ships allows us access to more interesting places, such as Norway’s lesser known fjords, and means we can dock in the heart of some of the world’s most beautiful cities. Our on board RIBs also give our guests the chance to explore even more fascinating places along the way.
To learn more, visit our Travel Agent Centre Trade Marketing Sales Support
at fredolsencruises.com/agent [email protected] [email protected]


Agents were treated to a tour and lunch on board Azamara Quest...
Azamara Onward , Monte Carlo, Monaco SM
VOTE FOR US!
AZAMARA® IS THRILLED TO HAVE THE FULL FLEET BACK IN THE WATER THIS YEAR!
Azamara Quest® was the first of our ships to set sail from her temporary home of Glasgow last summer, and August this year marked our
first full year back in operation. Even more exciting, we saw our newest sister ship Azamara OnwardSM make her debut in May this year too.
The continued support and commitment from the Scottish Travel Trade has made all of this possible – thank you!
Scottish
Passenger
For even more reason to celebrate, we’d be delighted if you could vote for Azamara®
Agents’
Association
at this year’s 2022 SPAA Awards.
ANNUAL TRAVEL 2A0w2ard2s Change The Way You Sea
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR LATEST NEWS AND OFFERS AT: ©2022 Azamara. Ships registered in Malta.
'Change The Way You Sea' is an international service mark of SP Cruises OpCo Limited.
AZAMARA.CO.UK AND CLUBAZAMARA.CO.UK
64 SEPTEMBER 2022


The Future of Travel Starts Now
LONDON
Why attend:
• More than £3.75 billion of new business generated at WTM 2019
• Meet and connect with over 3000 exhibitors
• Attendees from over 160 countries
• Stay ahead of industry trends
• Gain insights to help grow your business
Register Now


NEWS
QATAR TOURISM LAUNCHES NEW STOPOVER CAMPAIGN
Qatar Tourism has launched a new campaign featuring David Beckham to promote stopovers
in Qatar. The campaign showcases Beckham’s 48- hour stopover around the country and features the spice markets of Souq Waqif, local street art and sightseeing around Doha by motorbike.
More than 80% of the world’s population live within a six- hour flight from Qatar, making the destination ideal for a mini break. The stopover packages, which are on offer from Qatar Airways, start from £12 per person per night for a 4-star hotel and £17 per person for a five-star hotel.
Chairman of Qatar Tourism and Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker, said: “It has been a pleasure to welcome David to Qatar, where he has immersed himself in the culture and experienced first-hand the warm hospitality of the people.
“I encourage the millions who transit through Qatar every year to follow in David’s footsteps and create their own exciting adventure and memories. We have something for everyone at incredible value, whether it’s sun, sea, sand, rich heritage and culture, surprising nature, or a modern and fun city break.”
David Beckham commented, “Qatar has surprised me with
a wide range of great experiences you can have in just 48 hours. The people are warm and welcoming, and it is a great place to spend a few days. The people of Qatar are really passionate about their culture and the mix of modern and traditional creates something really special. I saw so much during my trip from spice markets to museums to enjoying a ride on my motorbike, which was one of the highlights.”
Audrey Thomson
Regional Sales Manager - Scotland Direct: 07795 682337
Email: [email protected]
1. Luxury Tour Operator 2. Short Haul Operator 3. Long Haul Operator 4. Leisure Representative
Emma Rodgers
Business Development Manager - South Direct: 07483 901203
Email: [email protected]
WE’D LOVE YOU TO VOTE For Us at this years SPAA Awards We have been nominated for:
ANNUAL TRAVEL 2A0w2ard2s
Scottish Passenger Agents’ Association
Go to the Voting Form via the QR code and cast your votes no later than 5.30pm on Monday 17th October 2022
Thank you!
66 SEPTEMBER 2022


INTRODUCING OUR JOURNEYS COLLECTION
Explora Journeys is CREATING a collection of journeys that offer the perfect BLEND of celebrated destinations and less-travelled spots, both seen from a new and ORIGINAL point of view that will inspire and EXCITE in equal measure.
Debuting in May 2023, all journeys include high speed unlimited Wi-Fi, access to sophisticated, varied culinary experiences across 18 venues, including six restaurants, five lounges and in-suite dining, unlimited beverages, fine wines, premium spirits, a welcome bottle of champagne, on board gratuities and more*.
FEATURED JOURNEYS
An Extended Journey of Scottish Isles, Danish Cities, and Icelandic Fjords
Scottish Highlands & Icelandic Geysers
EMBARKATION
COPENHAGEN, DENMARK
1 AUGUST 2023
ISAFJORDUR AKUREYRI
ICELAND
REYKJAVIK
DISEMBARKATION
COPENHAGEN, DENMARK
15 AUGUST 2023
SKAGEN
COPENHAGEN
DENMARK
DISEMBARKATION
REYKJAVIK, ICELAND
9 SEPTEMBER 2023
Ocean Suite fares from GBP 6,450 pp Ocean Penthouse fares from GBP 8,750 pp Ocean Residence fares from GBP 12,650 pp
SHETLAND ISLANDS
LERWICK
LERWICK
THORSHAVN
KIRKWALL
PORTREE
FORT WILLIAM
KIRKWALL
UNITED KINGDOM
Fares are cruise only, per person; subject to availability, and subject to change at any time; Terms & Conditions apply. *Exclusive experience fee applicable to two venues.
REGISTER AND JOIN OUR COMMUNITY AT EXPLORAJOURNEYS.COM/TRAVELADVISORS OR CONTACT 0800 014 8486
EMBARKATION
GLASGOW (GREENOCK), SCOTLAND
2 SEPTEMBER 2023
ICELAND
REYKJAVIK
Ocean Suite fares from GBP 2,850 pp Ocean Penthouse fares from GBP 3,850 pp Ocean Residence fares from GBP 5,600 pp
GLASGOW
GREENOCK
UNITED KINGDOM
SHETLAND ISLANDS


SNAPSHOTS
SPAA HAD A GREAT TURN OUT AT ITS ANNUAL GOLF DAY IN LANARK WITH LOTS OF PRIZEWINNERS!
68 SEPTEMBER 2022


travelmatters.biz
69


Gregorz:diary The social diary of a bear (71⁄4 inches tall)
Hi there Peeps!
I always love catching up with the King of the Villas, Iain Raeper from ONEE because I get to go to my favourite ice cream parlour! Great to hear that the trade is embracing the product and getting behind it with strong sales
due to the fantastic quality and choice available. And guess what? Because
I am such a special bear, they have done me the huge honour of naming a Croatian villa after little ol’ me!
Azamara ship on your holibags! Lee, Stuart and Liz did an immense job in your absence. All four of their vessels really do have a unique style, look
and feel about them. Combine this with great service, facilities, food and entertainment and it makes the perfect choice for a quality cruise experience.
The agents on board were really impressed by what they saw and it’s no surprise that Azamara gets so much of its business and sales from the trade which they greatly value and thanked everyone for.
Their attention to detail and staffff service is second to none. Check out Alli’s great column in Travel Matters every month for info on how to sell more Fred. Olsen!
Mr Loganair, Greig White (my BFF) popped over to see me. He had some pressies for his pal and ‘wee man’. Aren’t I one lucky and popular bear!
As if I didn’t have enough designer clothes, I am now the proud owner of my very own Loganair T-shirt and walk- on branded aircraft hand luggage.
Yes, that’s right - my very own named property! So, check it out at Villa Gregorz - ONEE Luxury Travel. It is
a stunning (as you would expect) 4 bed/4 bathroom property near Korcula. I am so proud, thank you Iain and ONEE. Just let me know when I am needed to go over to cut a ribbon and make a speech!
I was delighted when ‘Alli G’ - Fred. Olsen’s lady in the north - invited me on board their beautiful ship Balmoral. I was welcomed with the signature Fred. Olsen white glove service of tea and pastries - a totally fab way to start the visit! Balmoral sails regularly from the rivers Tyne and Forth on hugely popular cruises and it’s no wonder why.
That’s me for another month. See you soon.
Can’t wait to fly again with the airline to show my new clothes off and be the envy of all the other passengers. They have so many new fantastic destinations to choose from and I will need to start making my wish list!
Always a special treat when I get an invitation to join Azamara on one of their ships. Nikki, you were missed as you sunned yourself on another
70 SEPTEMBER 2022


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Where stories begin
Your Escorted Tour Specialists
Gem
North of England & Isle of Man
Phone: 07713 487115 or email: [email protected]
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Scotland & Northern Ireland
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Order our New 2022-2024 brochure at www.tradegate.co.uk


Windstar Cruises & Travel Matters hosted agents on a mini- cruise fam trip on board Windstar Legend, on the final section of its Emerald Isle & Scottish Highlands cruise.
Ports of call: Oban - Ullapool - Day at Sea - Leith
If you want to find out more about Windstar for your clients - email [email protected]
Wow! Windstar Legend totally surpassed all our expectations. From the relaxed ambience, super attentive staff, to the large suites with walk-in wardrobe and outstanding cuisine, Windstar is ideal for clients looking for a laid-back premium cruise experience!
THE TRAVEL MATTERS TEAM
Windstar Legend is an amazing ship with amazing staff. For a ship with only 312 capacity there were plenty of dining options and the food was delicious, some of the best I’ve eaten. The chef coming out to speak to us after our meal was a great touch! The suites were modern & spacious and the service we received was top class. I’d recommend this to anyone!”
ROSS SHARRATT, MURRAY TRAVEL
Thank you Windstar and The Travel Matters team for a fabulous few days onboard the Windstar Legend sailing around sunny Scotland. I absolutely loved this boutique yacht style all-suite wee ship. For being a small ship it still has loads of space.
The suites are modern and very spacious with a French balcony and a walk-in wardrobe. The staff are all extremely friendly and helpful and the food is fantastic! From salads & hotdogs, to dinner at Amphora, Candles Steakhouse or my absolute favourite - Cuadro 44, the Spanish Tapas restaurant. The cocktails and wine tasting were great too! I will be highly recommending Windstar Cruises to my clients.
TRACEY LAING, BORDER GLOBAL TRAVEL
72 SEPTEMBER 2022


The Windstar staff are simply wonderful! Every single one of them - from the Captain down throughout his entire team - who work tirelessly to ensure you have simply the best experience. They are so attentive, professional and truly customer-focused. And don’t be surprised when they remember not just your name but your personal preferences after just one conversation! They are also an extremely talented bunch – don’t miss the evening when they showcase their wide-ranging hidden talents for guests, it’s terrific! All in all, Windstar is a genuine 5* experience from beginning to end and I cannot recommend their product and service highly enough!
DAVE PRYDE, PERSONAL TRAVEL COUNSELLOR
The Star Legend was awesome! Super friendly staff who would do anything for you. Very fortunate to have a Balcony suite and they were huge. The cuisine was simply superb and the drinks including wine were all high end. Feel very privileged to have sailed on her. Many thanks to Windstar
and I will be promoting this to my clients.
ANDY GILHOOLY, GOLD TRAVEL COUNSELLOR
My 3 nights on Windstar were fabulous –
the suite was one of the best I have experienced in terms of storage space, really spacious bathroom with L’Occitane products. I loved that the ice bucket was refreshed twice a day!
Being a small ship, everything is accessible and you get to know the crew and other passengers very quickly. The speciality Spanish and Steak restaurants were outstanding, but even lunch was freshly cooked to order every day – so impressive. I am already recommending Windstar to my clients.”
LOUISE MITCHELL, TRAVEL COUNSELLORS
What a fantastic opportunity to sail on Windstar Star Legend - such friendly staff, amazing food, good choice of restaurants and such a great atmosphere on board. I hope I will be able to sail again soon and I will highly recommend it to our clients.
MICHELLE GEMMELL, KENNETH MACLEOD TRAVEL
Having travelled on many cruise ships of varying sizes and standards, I thought the relaxed atmosphere
on this small ship was perfect whilst the service was simply outstanding. A great combination. The food was excellent in all of the dining options but dinner in Cuadro 44 was the best I’ve experienced on any cruise ship. The alfresco dining in Candles in the evening was also a delight. Cabins, service and friendliness of the crew were all 5-star. Suffice to
say my first Windstar cruise definitely won’t be my last!
IRENE DARRACOTT, KENNETH MACLEOD TRAVEL
travelmatters.biz
73


NEWS
SANDALS AND BEACHES RESORTS - NOW ON SALE
Savings of up to £150 on Caribbean getaways of ten-nights or more are now available in the Sandals & Beaches Resorts sale.
Prices start from £1,999 per person for a ten-night all- inclusive holiday at a Sandals or Beaches Resort, including return economy flights, resort airport transfers, premium beverages, land sports including golf at selected resorts, water sports including scuba diving for PADI qualified divers and gratuities.
Valid for bookings for 2022, 2023, 2024 and 2025, a
range of room categories, travel dates and durations are
all available. Clients can choose from 20 resorts in eight Caribbean islands including the brand-new Sandals Dunn’s River Resort in Jamaica which opens 24th May 2023. Flight upgrades are also available.
Prices are guaranteed at the time of booking, regardless of departure dates and are secured with a £175 per person deposit.
For example, a ten-night stay for two people at Sandals Grande Antigua Resort & Spa staying in a Caribbean Honeymoon Grande Luxe Poolside Room costs from £2,599 per person. Price includes Luxury Included® (all-inclusive) accommodation, return economy class flights with British Airways from London Gatwick Airport and resort transfers. Price is valid for select departure dates in June 2023.
When booking, agents need to quote Sale150. Sale ends midnight on 13th October 2022.
NEW CAMPAIGN FROM RCI
Royal Caribbean has launched its new 'Mini Wave' campaign offering a range of special deals on flights, stateroom upgrades and low deposits.
Running until 31st October 2022, these special offers apply to select 2023 sailings and include £150 savings on airfares from select UK airports for European sailings departing between 16 April 2023 and 22 October 2023 on Explorer of the Seas, Rhapsody of the Seas, Symphony of the Seas and Odyssey of the Seas.
In addition, guests who book an Oceanview stateroom on any Anthem of the Seas European itineraries sailing from 12th May to 3rd October 2023, will be upgraded to a Balcony stateroom. Other highlights include reduced deposits from just £99 while Deluxe Drinks packages are available for £43 per person, per day on 7-night or longer sailings onboard Anthem, Odyssey, Symphony or Wonder of the Seas.
Agents can find out more about the newest offers from Club Royal or by speaking to their Royal Caribbean sales team representative.
Royal Caribbean International will once again offer direct charter flights from George Best Belfast City Airport to Bologna for summer 2023.
Guests departing from Belfast will be able to fly direct to Ravenna thanks to the partnership between Royal Caribbean International, Belfast City Airport and British Airways, commencing from 14th May until 22nd October 2023.
ABTA LAUNCHES NEW CAMPAIGN TO HELP MEMBERS RECRUIT STAFF
ABTA has launched a range of services to help its Members attract and retain staff, including tailored social media campaigns and assets, training courses for new staff
and new and and updated information on abta.com
Members can download the new assets from the Marketing Toolkit
in the ABTA Member Zone section of the website, to use in their own recruitment campaign. As well as giving general information on careers in the travel industry, a new updated careers page acts as a ‘mini-portal’ linking to other websites where there are live job opportunities being advertised. A travel recruitment helpline along with an apprenticeship helpline will also be available, as well as new training modules.
74 SEPTEMBER 2022


On your next Icelandair flight across the Atlantic, you can break up your journey and stop to explore our beautiful home at no additional airfare. What could be better than two destinations for the price of one?
Add an extra dimension to your journey and experience Iceland’s natural uniqueness and cultural creativity.
When you book an Icelandair flight between Europe and North America, you have the option of choosing a Stopover period in Iceland. Make your Stopover anywhere from one to seven days – with more time, you can pack more experience into your travels.
Explore the highlights of Reykjavík, the world’s coolest little capital, and sample everything
from local flavors and live music to steaming geothermal lagoons. You can also use Reykjavík as a springboard to the head-spinning landscapes that make Iceland so captivating. From sapphire-blue ice caves to endless cracked lava fields, we’ll show you why the “land of fire and ice” slogan is so much more than just a cliché.
Stopover in Iceland
at no additional airfare
icelandairacademy.com


New York or Iceland? Why not both!
icelandairacademy.com
When flying across the Atlantic with Icelandair you can Stopover in Iceland for up to 7 nights.