Travel Matters Magazine February 2022 Issue 47

ISSUE 47 FEBRUARY 2022
EXPANDING THE BOUNDARIES FOR THE TRAVEL TRADE IN SCOTLAND, NORTHERN IRELAND, NORTH OF ENGLAND & IOM
OFFER FROM 16TH DECEMBER - 31ST MARCH
√ All new bookings made on or before 31st March 2022 sailing on or before 30th September 2022 can be changed for free 48 hours before sailing.
*Available on selected 2022 sailings of 5 nights or more from selected UK & ROI airports. Includes taxes & fees. T&Cs Apply. See website for details. **Bookings made between 16/12/21 - 31/03/22. T&Cs apply.


GO ALL INCLUSIVE!
£40PP PER DAY* £21PP PER DAY*
FROM 16TH DECEMBER - 31ST MARCH
PLEASE DRINK RESPONSIBLY
*The promotion runs from 16/12/21 to 31/03/22 and is applicable to new and existing bookings on selected European 2022 sailings of 5 nights and above.
Package excludes all beverages served inside licensed Starbucks® stores/cafes. All guests in the same stateroom are required to purchase a beverage package. Terms & conditions apply.
Limited Time Only
DELUXE DRINKS PACKAGE REFRESHMENT DRINKS PACKAGE
ON ALL EUROPE 2022 SAILINGS


ISSUE 47 FEBRUARY 2022
EXPANDING THE BOUNDARIES FOR THE TRAVEL TRADE IN SCOTLAND, NORTHERN IRELAND, NORTH OF ENGLAND & IOM
FOCUS ON USA
WEDDINGS & AGENT’S GUIDE TO HONEYMOONS EDINBURGH AIRPORT


in this issue...
7 Pick Your Perk - Windstar Cruises
9 Book any tour for £1 deposit - Shearings
79
13 Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines - sailing from Newcastle
& Rosyth
14/15 Fly direct to Dalaman with Turkish Airlines
17 Air Canada - Take off for Toronto
25 Amazing Canada with Air Transat
43 Best deal of the year - Virgin Voyages
64 Deluxe drinks package with RCI
Focus on Weddings & Honeymoons
14/15
19 20
19
Honeymoon of a Lifetime - Sandals Resorts
Seychelles - Be swept off your feet
25 43
64
4 travelmatters.biz


Agent’s Guide to Edinburgh Airport
27 - 38
27-38 Barbados,America,Canada, Sunshine & City Breaks
USA Highlights
45
49 52/53 55
49
Small toys - Big Adventures - Visit Central Florida
5
travelmatters.biz
52/53
55
Resort at Sea - Bahamas Cruise Line
New voyages on sale with Cunard
Philadelphia -
East Coast Gateway
45


@travelmatters.biz @TravelMatBiz @travelmattersbiz @travelmattersbiz
Read previous issues online at...
www.travelmatters.biz MEET THE TEAM:
Gary Reavely
Director
07762 630057 [email protected]
Hilary Douglas
Director
07989 414454 [email protected]
Andrea Pellicci-Glen
Director
07766 010272 [email protected]
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Moving on up
On the travel front, it’s so good to hear lots more positive news!
More countries are removing testing requirements and restrictions; confidence in the market is growing as suppliers report business returning to pre-pandemic levels; there are more cruise ships setting sail again and airlines are resuming service on more routes.
What’s not to love about that!
Speaking of love.... with this being February and with so many weddings & honeymoons having been cancelled during the last two years, there has never been a better time to help your clients plan a romantic getaway.
Inside this issue you will also find an Agent’s Guide to Edinburgh Airport - for all the latest flight information. And with flights beginning to take off to the USA, customers can once again enjoy plenty of thrilling adventures across the pond.
Finally, we are moving in the right direction.
The Travel Matters Team


WINDSTAR KNOWS THE WAY TO CRUISE IN STYLE AND SAVE.
WIND YACHTS STAR PLUS YACHTS
Windstar knows how to set — then exceed — the standard for authentic private-yacht style cruising journeys.
We also know how to add value to every cruise through our Pick Your Perk program and Refundable Reduced Deposit. Savings options for your clients, bonus commissions for you. It all adds up to a cruise experience that’s 180 degrees from ordinary.
PICK YOUR PERK
+ REFUNDABLE REDUCED DEPOSIT
UP TO
$1,000 ONBOARD CREDIT
Enjoy shore excursions, customized
spa treatments at World Spa by Windstar, laundry, the Star Boutique on board; and more.
UP TO
2 COMPLIMENTARY EASY STAYS
OR Includes hand-selected accommodations at premium hotels, hotel wi-fi, transfers between the hotel and yacht, resort fees and taxes and full sit-down gourmet breakfast.
TRAVEL AGENTS
Book a new-to-Windstar Guest and receive £80 Bonus Commission.
YACHT CLUB MEMBERS DOUBLE REFERRAL BONUS
Receive $200 USD Onboard Credit per guest for each new-to-Windstar referral.
BOOK BY FEBRUARY 28, 2022 *Terms and Conditions apply
Anna Perrott
[email protected] 0759 313 7135 or 0207 399 7620


NEWS
60th anniversary boost for Loganair at Aberdeen International Airport
On the back of its 60th anniversary celebrations, Loganair has announced an expansion at Aberdeen International Airport with the introduction of a new route to Oslo.
Commencing 13th June, the year-round link will fly up to six weekly flights, with a daily service Sunday – Friday, in each direction with its 49-seat Embraer 145 Regional Jet aircraft.
Weekday flights will leave Aberdeen at 08:30, arriving in Oslo at 11:05 local time. Westbound flights will leave Oslo at 11:40 local time and arrive in Aberdeen at 12:20. Sunday flights will depart Aberdeen at the later time of 13:20 and leave Oslo at 16:30 local time. Fares on the new Aberdeen-Oslo route will start from £109.99 one-way with all tickets inclusive of free checked baggage allowance and in-flight refreshments.
Loganair will serve no fewer than 14 destinations from its Aberdeen hub, while it expects to add more routes as demand for air travel continues to recover from the pandemic.
In 1962, the airline had just one aircraft and in its 60 years, Loganair has grown to be the largest regional airline in the UK, serving over 70 routes to and from Scotland, England, the Channel Islands, Belgium, Isle of Man, Norway, Ireland, Denmark and Germany.
BELFAST CITY AIRPORT SIGNS NET ZERO AGREEMENT
George Best Belfast City Airport has signed the ‘Toulouse Declaration’, reinforcing the industry’s commitment to a net zero future.
The Toulouse Declaration, established by Airport Council International (ACI Europe), marks the first time that European Governments, the European Commission, industry, unions, airports and other key stakeholders formally align on aviation de-carbonisation.
ACI Europe is the European region of Airports Council International, the only worldwide professional association of airport operators, representing over 500 airports in 55 countries.
Belfast City Airport’s signing of this new agreement follows its public pledge in 2020 to reduce its carbon emissions, when it participated in ACI Europe’s ‘Airport Carbon Accreditation’ programme.
Speaking of environmental efforts at Belfast City, Environment and Sustainability Manager, Ian Nuttall, said: “By providing vital connectivity to the UK and Europe for both business and leisure passengers, we know the value we add to the regional economy, but remain conscious of any operational impact.
“That is why, as a responsible business, we are dedicated to doing all we can to minimise our carbon footprint and play our part in the pursuit of net zero by 2050.
“Having already achieved Level 2 in the Airport Carbon Accreditation programme, Belfast City Airport aims to continue to work towards eliminating our carbon emissions, and our signing of the Toulouse Declaration will keep us focused on making that happen.”
Loganair recently celebrated its 60th Anniversary - pictured in Dundee is former pilot Geoff Rosenbloom and current pilot Aaron Dickson.
SOME SEE A WEED...
I SEE A WISH
8 travelmatters.biz


Let’s enjoy the journey together
The best of the
UK and Europe
HURRY ! offer must end 28th Feb!
YOUR CUSTOMERS CAN BOOK WITH CONFIDENCE
Your customers’ money is 100% protected with our secure Trust Account
 Customers can change their holiday and date for FREE should they contract COVID-19
 Refunds within 7 days if your customers’ holiday is cancelled
What we can offer you:
• Fantastic commission rates
• Excellent sales support
• Travel agent bookable website www.shearings.com/login-agent
• Experienced contact centre team
Shearings offers a fantastic selection of value-for-money breaks to the most sensational destinations throughout the UK and Europe. Whether it’s iconic Blackpool or irresistible Italy, there’s never been a better time than now for your customers to get their next incredible holiday in the calendar!
Our UK collection features...
• 1000+ fully escorted coach holidays from £229pp
• 70+ self-drive hotel breaks from £109pp
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• 64 brand-new tours for 2022, including Agatha Christie’s Torquay, Longleat, Bristol and Bath, Highland Safari and Royal Retreats
Inside our European brochure, you’ll find...
• 1000+ fully escorted coach holidays from £289pp
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such as Italy, Spain, France and Germany
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• NEW river cruises packed with many ports-of-call
Order your brochure supplies today!
For all your
window display requests, please email Ashley Dellow, Head of Retail Sales
[email protected] Telephone: 07818 454 450
ORDER YOUR BROCHURE SUPPLIES TODAY!
Call 01709 833 805 to order your bulk supplies or visit BP Trade-Gate Visit www.shearings.com/login-agent
Mon-Fri 8am-8pm, Sat 9am-5pm, Sun 10am-4pm
000098 Travel Matters


Hello and welcome to everyone for the second of my updates from
the Scottish Passenger Agent’s Association President’s column.
At the time of reading this, we shall have already sat down for the 92nd annual Dinner and listened to the views and updates from outside and within our travel industry with good, productive and continued positive networking opportunities undertaken by all.
Our speakers, Jo Rzymowska - Vice President & Managing Director, EMEA for Celebrity Cruises & Brigadier David Allfrey MBE - Past Chief Executive
and Producer of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo are both well-known and renowned within their respective fields. I’m sure that we all enjoyed the haggis and a wonderful dinner on the night and I hope that the side effects of a busy evening endured the following morning were mild and not too severe!
The ongoing developments with our industry remain positive, the reduction on rules for testing pre & post departure continue to be relaxed and the
SPAA’s targeted focus and relentless communication to all the political parties in both Holyrood & Westminster continue to bear fruit and ensure safe and healthy travel for us all.
There remains some main issues that need immediate address but others which are more of a compromise, like mandatory face mask wearing on board which shall remain for the foreseeable future, but I hope passengers see this as a minor consideration to allow us
to keep moving forward on the path to normality whilst travelling.
We also see the reintroduction of key and integral routes direct from Scotland to key destinations like the USA and this is a massive boost for the trade and overall to Scotland’s infrastructure and global network connectivity. Needless to say routes like this and the key direct corridors to Europe and the Middle
East are critical to Scotland’s
economic recovery.
Our leisure agents are also reporting positive improvement and enquiries from January onwards and again
long may this continue - we need a long uninterrupted trading pattern
to help assist us in gaining customer confidence - allowing them to plan ahead and keep the order books full for the coming holiday seasons.
Let’s hope that supply keeps up the demand and ensures prices remain competitive and destination opportunities keep growing with the introduction of new or increased markets.
THE VOICE OF TRAVEL IN SCOTLAND
The cruise industry also continues on the path to recovery and it was reported by CLIA in a report issued in January that - “And by August 2022, 100% of cruise lines are expected to resume operations, thanks in part to rigorous health and safety protocols. (Currently, 75% of ocean-going members have returned to service).” Let’s hope and pray that this analysis is correct or hopefully return to greater resumption even earlier in 2022.
I’m looking forward to reviewing the results for the first quarter of 2022 across the entire travel industry within Scotland and let’s hope that we are now not only seeing but actually experiencing the green shoots of recovery and starting to record some positive numbers on the balance sheet which are long overdue.
We were absolutely delighted that after our ongoing lobbying with Scottish Government, we were given a further award of £3.5 million as a travel agency fund. We know how much that will help all of our members to carry on to reach the time that they will start to receive some long awaited income from bookings.
Finally, I would just like to reiterate that although some things may still seem bleak or slow to recover, we need to focus on the positive side right now and develop public perceptions with regards to confidence and new initiatives on sustainability and how the industry
is evolving.
Take care and look forward to catching up at one or all of the scheduled SPAA events throughout the coming year.
Mike Tibbert SPAA President
10 travelmatters.biz


THE VOICE OF TRAVEL IN SCOTLAND
AIR CONVENER
ALAN GLEN
[email protected]
LEISURE & CRUISE CONVENER
JAC DOBSON
jacqueline.dobson@ barrheadtravel.co.uk
GDS & TECHNOLOGY CONVENER
PAUL CRONJE
[email protected]
RAIL & FERRY CONVENER
JOHN BARR
[email protected]
NEW SPAA COUNCIL CONVENERS
If you have any issues or are looking for advice, please contact the relevant person as listed below:
DATES FOR YOUR DIARY...
SPAA MEMBERS DINNER
NETWORK LUNCH & STAR EVENT
Thursday 10th March
We are returning to Aberdeen for our first event of the year in Aberdeen! Why not join us for a Members Network Dinner at the Atholl Hotel in Aberdeen.
Wednesday 20th April
Please note change of date.
Come along to our Network Lunch & Star Roadshow now on 20th April, at the Kimpton Hotel in Edinburgh.
For more details, contact [email protected]
FEBRUARY 2022 11


NEWS
ALL AT SEA
with Ali G
Allison Graham
Riviera Travel extends trade booking incentive
Riviera Travel has extended its current £50 agent booking incentive to 31st March, 2022. The reward, which is available as a Lifestyle voucher, applies to all individual river cruise or yacht bookings made on sailings departing this year.
A total of 14 river cruise itineraries, operating from March to November are available. Itineraries include: Burgundy, the River Rhône and Provence; Douro, Porto and Salamanca; The Blue Danube River Cruise: Vienna, Budapest and Salzburg and Amsterdam, Kinderdijk and the Dutch Bulbfields.
Tom Morgan, head of agency sales UK & Ireland at Riviera Travel, said: “We’re pleased to extend this incentive and further demonstrate our commitment to our travel agent partners. We’ve had great feedback from the trade in response to the original offer, so wanted to show our gratitude for the interest and demand we have seen on river cruise and yacht departures.
“With so much choice available, we hope the vouchers will continue to be snapped up by agents, as international travel further opens up to their customers.”
To claim their voucher, agents should send their confirmed booking number and preferred email address to [email protected]
Read the latest news from Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines
Hi everyone
It’s me, Alli G! I’m lucky enough to know many of you already, but for those of you whom I haven’t met yet, I’m the Account Manager for the North at Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines. I’m really excited to be writing a regular column over the coming months, sharing our news and bringing The Olsen Way to life.
I am sure some of you will be wondering... what actually is The Olsen Way? What does it mean to me and my customers and how will it help me to promote and sell Fred. Olsen Cruises? To put it simply, The Olsen Way hasn’t changed anything about us. It is a celebration of who we are, what we do and what sets us apart in the market. It is made up of 10 principles, which between them focus on every element of our cruise holidays, from our hand-crafted itineraries and our smaller ships to our wonderful guests and crew who make it all happen.
We are really pleased to be offering departures from Newcastle and Rosyth again this year and over the coming weeks will focus on a different principle from The Olsen Way to help bring us and our brand to life, so you know what makes us special and how to recommend us to your customers. So watch this space!
In the meantime, don’t forget you will receive a case of wine on us, for any 2022 booking you make before 1st March 2022 - just quote WANTWINE at the check-out! Also, our Cruise Sale is running until 1st March, giving your customers the chance to sail from only £699 per person, with a free all-inclusive drinks package and we’ll cover the cost of the tips too.
If you’d like to learn more, you can visit our dedicated Travel Agent Centre anytime at fredolsencruises.com/agent where you will find more details on The Olsen Way and our current campaigns, as well as our Artwork Builder so you can create your own marketing for your branch.
We also have a brand new Facebook page where we share news and updates from the business and I’d love to see you there. You can find us by searching Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines – Trade Team.
Until then, bye for now and happy selling!
Alli G
USEFUL CONTACTS
To make contact with Alli, or for anything else on agent support, please contact our Sales Support team on 01473 746164 or email [email protected]
For help with marketing tools and support, contact the Trade Marketing team: [email protected]
Visit our Travel Agent Centre:
www.fredolsencruises.com/agent
Travel Matters is delighted to hear that Tom Sneddon is back with United Airlines!
Congratulations Tom and we can’t wait to see you again!
12 travelmatters.biz


SAILING THIS YEAR FROM NEWCASTLE & ROSYTH
WHAT’S ON BOARD
Bars & Lounges 7 Swimming Pools 2 RIBs (Rigid Inflatable Boats) Ã
Restaurants
6
Show Lounge
1
Jacuzzis
3
Fitness Centre
Ã
Hairdressers
Ã
Boutique Shops
Ã
We’re excited to announce that Balmoral will return to service this May with departures from Newcastle. And, from July, she’ll sail a summer of itineraries departing from Rosyth.
Your customers will enjoy sailings that have been specially crafted by our Journey Planners to take in the vast landscapes of the Canaries, experience beautiful scenic cruising through Norway’s mighty fjords that are only accessible to smaller ships, or even journey to the Baltic.
Scan this QR code to see all of Balmoral’s sailings
Spa à Library à Card Room Ã
YOUR NHS COVID PASS PASSENGER LOCATOR FORM DESTINATION ENTRY FORMS PLUS, OUR NO-RISK DEPOSIT AS STANDARD
To book, please call 0800 0355 052 or visit fredolsencruises.com/agent
Travel Ready Service. From £29pp we’ll take care of travel paperwork including Passenger Locator Forms and vaccination letters. Please call 0800 0355 052, no earlier than three weeks before cruise departs to have service added.


Gateway to
The Beautiful ‘Turquoise Coast of Turkey’ with new direct flights from Edinburgh
FLYING TO MORE COUNTRIES THAN ANY OTHER AIRLINE IN THE WORLD, TURKISH AIRLINES HAS ANNOUNCED ITS NEW DIRECT FLIGHTS FROM EDINBURGH TO DALAMAN FOR THE YEAR 2022.
DIVE INTO DALAMAN
With a backdrop of pine clad mountains, the region is a chain of coves, bays and long stretches of beautiful sandy beaches.
There’s a host of bays, villages and ancient cities surrounding Dalaman, so there’s plenty to do both to the east and west of the city. To the
east, Oludeniz, Butterfly Valley, Saklikent Gorge and the Ancient City of Telmessos; to the west, the Gulf
of Gokova, Koycegiz and Marmaris... Dalaman is an absolute paradise if you’re looking for natural beauty, history and sunshine on your holiday. The greens of the forested hills and deep blues of the sea make this a destination you won’t soon forget.
The airport serves a number of resorts including Icmeler, Fethiye, Oludeniz and Calis Beach.
MARMARIS
60 miles from the airport is the chic, highly atmospheric, modern and very famous coastal town of Marmaris.
As a resort, Marmaris has it all - a magnificent setting around a stunning five-mile bay, stretching from the small resort of Icmeler to the atmospheric and bustling old town of Marmaris.
Its marina has attracted ships for hundreds of years and now it is full of glamorous jet set multi-million pound yachts drawn to the crystal clear waters, stunning coastal scenery and fabulous weather to be found in this fantastic part of the world.
The resort features an amazing pedestrianised waterfront promenade and along this are numerous excellent restaurants, bars and cafés.
The shopping is excellent ranging from modern malls to an old fashioned Turkish Bazaar where haggling is expected and appreciated!
The nightlife here is justifiably famous - head to Bar Street to find over 100 clubs, discos and bars to while away the warm summer nights.
Marmaris is a great base from which
to explore and there are numerous options if you can drag yourself away from the beach. Take a day trip to Rhodes, boat trips, historical sites - the very best being the stunning World Heritage Site of Ephesus - arguably the best preserved Roman ruins in existence and a real history buff’s treat, a three-hour drive away.
THE BLUE LAGOON AT OLUDENIZ
Make sure that you tell your clients to visit this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Much photographed, it is considered by many to be the most beautiful beach in the world. This is a true paradise on earth - famous particularly for the colour of its shallow warm water and the stunning sugar white sand. This is a real swimmers and snorkeller’s paradise or if you prefer, just sit back in a lounger, order a cooling refreshment and take it all in - an experience to be cherished and remembered for a very long time.
AVERAGE TEMPERATURE
June .........................23.5 °C July...........................26 °C August .....................27.5 °C September ..............24 °C October....................19.5 °C
DIRECT FLIGHTS WITH TK - EDINBURGH TO DALAMAN
Fly in style to Dalaman with Turkish Airlines on this brand new route. The flights will be operated by an Airbus A321 with 16-20 dedicated seats in Business Class and 135-162 in Economy Class. In addition to complimentary catering and inflight entertainment systems, convenient daytime flight times make these flights ideal for families and
couples alike.
Edinburgh-Dalaman flights are scheduled twice weekly on Thursdays and Sundays from 5 June to 27 October 2022.
• Edinburgh/Dalaman - Depart 1255 - Arrive 1930
• Dalaman/Edinburgh - Depart 0910 - Arrive 1155
14 travelmatters.biz
Dalama
a
n
n


FLY DIRECT FROM EDINBURGH TO DALAMAN
TÜRKİYE


NEWS
Ambassador Cruise Line
to expand fleet
Ambassador Cruise Line has announced the purchase of its second ship, to be named Ambition, entering service in 2023. Like her sister ship Ambience, Ambition will offer no-fly sailings predominantly targeting the 50-plus market.
In addition to London Tilbury, the cruise line will also offer a Summer 2023 programme of regional departures from ports including Belfast, Dundee, Newcastle and Liverpool.
Ambition will carry up to 1,200 guests in 714 cabins, 125 of which have balconies and 113 are suites with up to 62m2 of living space. Other features will include two main restaurants, speciality dining options, bars, lounges and a pub. A tiered main theatre, casino, card room, library and craft studio
will also feature along with a wellness centre, gym and two swimming pools.
The ship has been purchased outright from Costa Crociere which operated her under their AIDA brand, as AIDAMira, mainly targeting the German market. Prior to entering service with Ambassador Cruise Line, she will undergo similar extensive refurbishment as her new sister ship, Ambience.
JTA expands management team
JTA Travel has announced an expansion of its Senior Management team.
Tim Roulston joins as Head of Aviation and Partnerships, working with airline and agent partners to continue to strengthen the company’s flight operations and build upon senior level agency relationships in Scotland and Northern Ireland.
Tim joins after 26 years with the Air France-KLM group where he held a number of senior sales positions including Regional Sales Manager for Scotland and Northern England. Tim will be based in Glasgow.
Dave Hood also joins JTA this month as Head of Sales
& Projects after many years at Mercury Holidays and Midcounties Coop. Dave will lead the Sales Team and focus on expanding relationships with travel agent partners.
Belfast International Airport obtains Carbon Accreditation
Belfast International Airport has entered the Airport Carbon Accreditation (ACA) program by reaching the Level 2 Reduction for its initiatives to reduce its carbon footprint.
ACA is the global, airport-specific program that certifies airports’ efforts to manage and reduce its carbon emissions. Since joining VINCI Airports network, Belfast International Airport has achieved a -20 % decrease of its direct carbon emissions, with key actions including LED relamping of the airport terminal and improvement of the management of energy consumption.
Graham Keddie, managing director, Belfast International Airport said: “The airport team have been focused and dedicated on the comprehensive management and mitigation of our carbon footprint. We are delighted to have achieved this accreditation and are committed to working towards the next levels.”
The accreditation recognizes efforts in six levels: mapping, reduction, optimization, neutrality, transformation
and transition.
Pictured (L-R): Belfast International Airport Managing Director Graham Keddie alongside Compliance Manager Kevin Napier, as they celebrate the airport obtaining ACA Level 2 Carbon Accreditation.
DON’T WORRY IF PLAN A FAILS, THERE ARE 25 MORE LETTERS IN THE ALPHABET
(+ 204 IF YOU’RE IN JAPAN)
16 travelmatters.biz


TAKE OFF FOR TORONTO
Non-stop service between Edinburgh and Toronto resumes Summer 2022.
Starting June 2, 2022, your clients can once again take advantage of our non-stop service between Edinburgh and Toronto, with fast and easy connections to more than 120 destinations across North America. Passengers can relax in the quiet, comfortable cabins of our state-of-the-art, fuel-efficient Boeing 737 MAX, where every seat offers hours of complimentary personal in-flight entertainment. Plus, your clients will enjoy Air Canada’s award-winning service, featuring complimentary advance seat selection*, checked baggage**, meals, wines and spirits.
For more information, visit aircanada.com
* Transatlantic services only, an advance seat selection fee applies to select economy booking classes. **Excluding Basic fares.


WEDDINGS & HONEYMOONS
FREE ANNIVERSARY NIGHT ON OFFER WITH SANDALS RESORTS
Sandals Resorts is giving guests the chance to enjoy a Free Anniversary Night, if the couple are celebrating a wedding anniversary at any Sandals Resort.
Agents can help clients to redeem one free night with holiday bookings of seven nights or more, made via the UK tour operator for Sandals Resorts, Unique Caribbean Holidays Ltd. (UCHL).
To qualify for the Free Anniversary Night offer, holiday dates must fall within 30 days of the couple’s wedding anniversary date. Guests must also be booked in either a Club or
Butler level room category at any Sandals resort to qualify (excludes Over-the-Water Suites).
Agents will need to register and upload proof of their clients’ marriage license online within 14 days of booking, then email [email protected] with their clients’ Sandals booking reference number. The Free Anniversary Night will then automatically be applied.
With 16 all-inclusive resorts located on the Caribbean islands of Jamaica, St Lucia, Antigua, Grenada, Barbados, the Bahamas and with Curacao also coming soon in April 2022, couples can choose to book a different Sandals holiday to mark each wedding anniversary. Terms and conditions apply. Visit www.sandals.co.uk/anniversaries/ free for more information.
Sandals Resorts is celebrating its 40th anniversary with
a series of events taking place both on and off the resorts throughout 2022. Resort-based celebrations include a new poolside snack and cocktail menu, weekly rewind poolside events, a 1981-inspired vintage t-shirt and retail collection available in resort shops.
DESTINATION ANGUILLA FOR A DREAM WEDDING
With many couples having to postpone their weddings and honeymoons once or even twice during the pandemic, an escape to the white sand beaches of Anguilla could be the answer.
For those seeking a destination wedding, Anguilla offers various options for exchanging vows. Historic churches, stunning beaches and offshore cays, lush resort gardens, clifftop villas and private yachts – there is a venue to
suit everyone.
For a romantic union with stunning views over Little Bay, the luxurious privacy of ANI Villas is the perfect place to tie the knot, whilst small groups can enjoy exclusive use
of the nine rooms at Quintessence, with barefoot
beach vows.
Malliouhana, part of the Auberge Resorts Collection, has its very own private bluff for intimate celebrations, set amongst lush gardens with the sea as a backdrop to the ceremony and sunset dinners or drinks in the Bar Soleil.
Guests can also celebrate their union with a sunset blessing on board Tradition, a classic West Indian sloop, handbuilt in 1978. Ideal for groups of up to 12 (including bride and groom), all aspects of the trip can be tailor-made by the happy couple - from the pick up point to the food and drink served on board.
EVERY SNACK YOU MAKE... EVERY BITE YOU TAKE... I’LL BE WATCHING YOU!
18 travelmatters.biz


JAMAICA ANTIGUA SAINT LUCIA THE BAHAMAS GRENADA BARBADOS CURAÇAO
The HONE
EYMOON of a LIFETIME
SANDALS SOUTH COAST
JAMAICA
A Sandals Luxury Included® honeymoon is an incomparable showcase of quality, choice and welcoming hospitality, offering more quality inclusions than any other resorts on the planet. Your clients can sip tropical cocktails crafted from premium liquors on a hammock for two at our Over-Water-Bar. Or relax in Sandals’ most creatively designed suites with unique features including private outdoor Tranquility Soaking TubsTM for two, perfect for enjoying a chilled glass of sparkling wine.
Here they can spend every day of their stay exploring a new coral reef or discovering the best beaches in the Caribbean. They can dine in France one night, Tuscany the next without ever leaving the resort with our 5-Star Global GourmetTM Dining concept, featuring up to 16 restaurants per resort – all included in the price of their holiday. Sure, there’s time to do absolutely nothing, or they can do it all. At Sandals, every day is theirs to enjoy to the fullest.
*Offer valid for travel within 30 days of their wedding date. Further terms and conditions may apply.
THE CARIBBEAN’S BEST BEACHES 5-STAR GLOBAL GOURMETTM DINING
Free
HONEYMOON INCLUSIONS*
BOOK WITH CONFIDENCE, WITH THE BRAND YOU CAN TRUST
CALL 0808 164 3459 VISIT SANDALS.CO.UK/AGENTS
@SellingSandalsforAgents
26 Years Running
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2021/22
LATITUDES° OVER WATER BAR
UNLIMITED WATER SPORTS
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WEDDINGS & HONEYMOONS
Romantic retreats with Beachcomber Tours
If clients are dreaming of a luxurious and carefree wedding or honeymoon, Mauritius provides a wealth of beautiful tropical settings, with pristine white sandy beaches, sparkling azure waters and dreamy beachfront locations.
From small intimate
ceremonies on the beach to weddings with friends and family, Beachcomber Resorts will take care of everything.
With a guarantee of just
one wedding a day at all
the Beachcomber Hotels in Mauritius, three package options and a dedicated in-resort wedding planner, guests can expect an exclusive wedding day experience at any of the eight Beachcomber Resorts.
Couples can hold a romantic beach ceremony with the Beachcomber Bliss package, enjoy additional extras such as bouquet and hair and makeup for the bride with the Beachcomber Barefoot wedding package, or create a unique and personalised wedding with the Beachcomber Bespoke package. A variety of extra touches can also be added including candlelit dinners, couple massages and sundowner cruises.
Trending with honeymoon couples is the desire to enjoy their holiday in an adult-only environment or in an adult only section of a resort. The luxurious adult-only accommodation options at Dinarobin Beachcomber and Victoria Beachcomber combine award-winning a la carte dining, impeccable service and a large selection of complimentary activities.
However, there’s more to Mauritius than palm fringed beaches and turquoise seas. Home to numerous championship golf courses, Mauritius offers the ideal challenge for both amateurs and seasoned golfers. The 18-hole Paradis Golf Club provides the unique opportunity to hit over the Indian Ocean on five of the holes. Mont Choisy Le Golf is an intriguing course with tailor-made training coaching programmes designed to improve technique.
Visitors can explore the diverse landscape from the Chamarel Falls
to the unique natural phenomenon of the Seven Coloured Earths and picturesque sugar canes. Spectacular coral reefs and the warm currents of the Indian Ocean provide an excellent location for paddle boarding and diving with all of the Beachcomber Hotels offering comprehensive diving programmes at the PADI dive centres.
g concierge provider
targets UK market
Wedding Optimizer, an online software that provides an interactive wedding booking process and customised wedding programmes, has partnered with Flexi Reps to target the UK market.
In addition to providing a consumer interface for travel agents and wedding couples to hold or book a wedding, the Wedding Optimizer creates a wedding platform interface and provides a back- end administration system, which allows the hotel and resorts’ onsite wedding team to focus on delivering a hands-
on wedding service instead of admin paperwork.
Wedding Optimizer partners include Playa Resorts; Hyatt Ziva/Zilara; Couples Resorts Jamaica; Palladium Resorts; Coconut Bay St Lucia; Sugar Bay Barbados as well as cruise lines such
as NCL and Princess.
Using the Wedding Optimizer platform, agents and tour operators can confirm and book destination weddings with instant availability shown on the interactive wedding calendars without having to contact the hotel as well as choose the optional extras.
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Tahiti specialist, Paul Gauguin Cruises can create memorable wedding and honeymoon celebrations aboard the luxurious m/s Paul Gauguin.
From commemorating a marriage or anniversary, to the ultimate honeymoon, guests can choose from a number of options.
All honeymooners sailing with the cruise line will receive a complimentary celebration package which includes
a special gathering featuring a Polynesian blessing ceremony performed by Les Gauguines and hosted by the Cruise Director and an in-stateroom celebratory bottle
of champagne. Guests can also upgrade to an optional package with many extras, including a private dinner with an Officer.
Europe’s best
value honeymoon destinations for 2022
A recent study by LuxuryHotel.com has revealed that Las Palmas is Europe’s best value honeymoon destination.
The research analysed factors such as meal prices, hotel costs, average temperature and the number of romantic restaurants to see which destination came out on top.
It found that Las Palmas on the Spanish island of Gran Canaria was Europe’s best value spot for newlyweds.
The city ranked highest for average temperatures all year, as well as having affordable hotels and dining costs.
Other packages are also available for wedding receptions, anniversaries and renewals of vows, including a Tahiti Marriage: with the idyllic setting of French Polynesia for the ultimate romantic wedding celebration (the ceremony must be performed ashore in an official venue).
The cruise line also offers Gift Registries for honeymoons and other special occasions. Guests simply create a “wish list” of gifts ranging from shore excursions to dining and spa options and friends and family can then select the gift they would like to give.
In addition to being
a major cruise ship stop, it’s known for its golden sands with four main beaches across its coastline. Also in Spain, the Andalusian city of Granada comes in second place and
in third place is
Funchal, Madeira.
As well as being the cheapest in the top ten for dining out, it also scored well for its variety of romantic eateries.
Rome comes in at fourth place, with a huge choice of places to eat and high annual temperatures. At number eight on the list, Paris makes its way into the top ten with the city having more than 1,400 restaurants that have been tagged as “romantic” in TripAdvisor, the highest number of all the places included in the study.
FEBRUARY 2022 21
Celebrate in paradise with Paul Gauguin Cruises


WEDDINGS & HONEYMOONS
Find romance at
Story Seychelles
The Seychelles group of islands is the perfect paradise location for a romantic getaway, including renewal of vows ceremony, with powder white sandy beaches, crystal clear turquoise waters
and a warm tropical climate all year round.
Story Seychelles Resort offers an ideal location for guests to renew their vows. Located in Beau Vallon Beach, with 3km of white sand beach, the resort is situated in one of the most luxurious neighbourhoods in the island of Mahè, only 10 minutes from Victoria (the capital), five minutes to Morne Seychelles National Park and 20 to Seychelles International Airport.
Guests can enjoy secluded beachfront villas and suites, under-the-stars dining and luxury leisure activities. Couples can choose to say ‘I do’ again on the beach or in a lush tropical garden gazebo, or in various private secluded spots dotted around the resort.
The Resort’s wedding team specialise in creating dream ceremonies and offer several packages that can be tailored to clients’ needs.
Celebrate Valentine’s Day in St Lucia
Couples can enjoy the The Landings Resort and Spa’s new ‘Valentine’s Day’ package, available for travel throughout February 2022 and 2023.
The Landing’s newest package offers couples a luxurious romantic break on St Lucia’s north-west coast. Upon arrival at Hewanorra Airport, guests are transferred to the resort via helicopter transfer. From there, they can enjoy complimentary champagne and chocolate, butler service throughout their stay as well as a romantic beach dinner on the deck overlooking St. Lucia’s Rodney Bay.
Couples can also choose between an exclusive excursion or a spa treatment from the resort’s spa which includes treatment rooms, a health club and full-service salon. Excursions include guided walks in St. Lucia’s lush rainforest, volcano hikes and visits to Pigeon Island’s historic naval garrison.
Guests can also take advantage of a complimentary professional memory photoshoot lasting up to four hours.
Offer is subject to terms & conditions and a minimum five-night stay is required.
Reconnect in Seattle
The Woodmark Hotel & Still Spa, located on the shores of Lake Washington, in the Pacific Northwest of the USA, offers visitors the chance to reconnect for a luxurious retreat.
Whether guests want to participate in outdoor adventures or experience a luxurious night in, the hotel offers couples The Reconnect to Romance package, which includes two nights’ accommodation, Still Spa signature bath butler (including Pacific Northwest lilac and honey scrub, rosemary mint lotion and a dry exfoliation brush), Woodmark Treveri Cellars Bubbles, rose petals and $30 dining credit.
LOVE MEANS NEVER HAVING TO SAY ANYTHING BECAUSE YOU ARE BOTH LOOKING AT YOUR SMART PHONES
22 travelmatters.biz


Be swept off your feet by
The
for the perfect wedding & honeymoon
The Seychelles archipelago comprises 115 islands scattered across the western Indian Ocean, long known as the world’s most romantic destination. It is truly the perfect paradise location for a dream wedding.
Whether your clients are in the Seychelles for a wedding, honeymoon or just a romantic break, they will find friendly, welcoming people, swaying palms and the silver-soft sands of secret beaches.
What better way to consummate a union in what many still perceive to be the original Garden of Eden.
Tourism Seychelles
Home to the unique Vallée de Mai, it is little wonder that lovers are inspired to take their vows and wed in such a romantic heaven.
Weddings in the Vallée de Mai can
be arranged through the Seychelles Islands Foundation, where guests can stroll where the legendary Coco-de- mer nut grows high on ancient palms.
Alternatively, couples can choose to celebrate the ‘big’ day on a deserted beach, sipping exotic tropical cocktails against the backdrop
of a crimson sunset.
On the island of La Digue, visitors will find the dream beaches of Grand Anse and Source D’Argent - a true island getaway.
Couples can choose from a wide selection of hotels, as well as a choice of discreet island hideaways, for an unique romantic experience and Seychelles ensures a hassle-free wedding destination, with nuptials recognised worldwide.
Clients will be swept off their feet by the breathtaking beauty of the islands while making memories to last
a lifetime.
[email protected] | www.seychelles.com
To become a Seychelles expert,
visit www.seychellessuperstar.co.uk
©Michel Denousse
©TorstenDickmann
©TorstenDickmann
©TorstenDickmann


NEWS
Hi guys, hope we are doing well and slowly getting back to a little normality. It’s encouraging to see a lot of suppliers have got their teams back on the road and doing face to face visits which we all love. It gives us hope that things are moving along quite nicely as I am sure we want to be “business as usual” as quickly as possible.
One thing this pandemic has taught us is that we must change and adapt to a new normal, which most of us are embracing it seems. Which brings me on to the Geordie Ball - the pandemic has made us think about changes and that’s why for this year, the GB is going to have a festival theme.
Everyone is excited about the new
look as well as the opportunity to
dress in your best festival gear! Think Woodstock, Glastonbury... now we have Gosforthbury! It will feature a great
mix of festival food, dessert stations, glitter girls and three headline acts. It’s going to be a night to remember and numbers are higher than the last GB, so that proves things are on the up! So get it in your diary now - Thursday March 10th at the Grand Gosforth Park Hotel. If you need any more info, contact me: [email protected].
Last week I had the pleasure of travelling on the Glacier Express in Switzerland. What a trip that was! It leaves Zermatt at 08:52 and arrives in St Moritz at 16:42 and is billed as the slowest express train in the world!
The views from the glass domed carriages are just spectacular. A 3-course meal is served while you take in all the amazing scenery, the seats are really comfortable and the service is exemplary. The best part of it all, is that it is free if you have a Swiss
Rail Pass!
I got a First Class pass for £175 from Touchdown - the Swiss Tourist Board gives the travel trade a 75% discount
- and it gave me 8-days of unlimited First Class travel on all trains, boats and buses in Switzerland. I made full use
of my Pass by travelling from Geneva to Lucerne, then to Zermatt, St Moritz, Davos and Klosters, Zurich and finally back to Geneva. I certainly got my money’s worth from that Pass!
I am looking forward to seeing you all at the Geordie Fest soon.
Stay safe and keep smiling,
Darren
DARREN PHILLIPS...
VIEW
FROM THE NORTH EAST
NEW EUROPEAN COLLECTION BROCHURE FROM SHEARINGS
Escorted coach tours company, Shearings, has published a new dedicated 2022/23 European Collection brochure, featuring more than 70 tours with 25 brand-new holidays.
Tours can be secured for £1pp low deposit until 28th February, with nothing else to pay until six weeks before departure.
The tours range from 4 & 5-day short breaks, to 16-day holidays, with options for express coach tours, all-inclusive packages and solo traveller breaks.
All holidays include coach travel, with more than 500 joining points across the country. Home Connect can also be arranged for anyone wanting door- to-door transportation.
This is the first brochure inclusion for Shearings’ expanded selection of river cruises, with eight new tours added and the four-star MS Arena and four- star A-Rosa Aqua joining the Croisi Europe vessels on the rivers of Europe.
A choice of tours and cruises now include a visit to Floriade, the once- in-a-decade Dutch horticultural expo, a new tour to Monet’s Garden and Versailles and a brand-new Dutch Waterways and Bulbfields holiday.
24 travelmatters.biz


Amazing Canada starts here
Manchester or Glasgow > Toronto on direct flights four times a week this summer
Connecting flights to Quebec City, Edmonton, Calgary and Vancouver via Montreal.
Available to book via the GDS
[email protected] | 00 800 87 26 72 83
Fly the World’s Best Leisure Airline to Canada
Other routes available with Air Transat. See online for more details and prices.


NEWS
Virgin Voyages
welcomes Valiant Lady
Virgin Voyages recently welcomed its latest ship – Valiant Lady - which will sail around the UK, visiting London (Tilbury) and Liverpool, ahead of her maiden voyage from Portsmouth. She will homeport in Barcelona from May.
Speaking of the arrival of Valiant Lady to the UK, Tom McAlpin, CEO of Virgin Voyages, says: “Following the success of our first lady ship, Scarlet Lady, we are so excited to debut Valiant Lady to the UK this March and begin our European tour. The lifting of UK travel restrictions has already shown promising signs with 70% uplift in bookings since December.
“We’ll be showcasing our newest lady in Tilbury and Liverpool, before we kick off our bookable European sailings from Portsmouth in March and our new homeport in Barcelona
in May.”
Itineraries will feature longer port stays and overnighters in destinations such as Palma de Mallorca and Ibiza.
Exclusive agent offers from Sun Siyam Resorts
Maldivian owned Sun Siyam Resorts is offering the trade exclusive agent rates for summer 2022. A range of special offers are available at all five resorts in
the Maldives and Pasikudah on the east coast of Sri Lanka, between 15th May and 30th September 2022.
Agent rates include the five-star Sun Siyam Iru Fushi, at $350 per villa per night on full board basis for two adults with up
to two children under 15 years staying for free. Agents can also benefit from trade specific deals throughout their stay, including two complimentary excursions and discounts on spa treatments.
For more details on agent rates, email katharine.wood@ sunsiyam.com. For more information on the portfolio of resorts, visit www.sunsiyam.com
Emerald Cruises takes delivery of Emerald Azzurra
Emerald Cruises has taken delivery of Emerald Azzurra, the first of the brand’s two superyachts.
Departing HaLong Shipyard (Ha Long Bay, Vietnam), the 100-guest yacht will head to Aqaba (Jordan) ready to welcome guests on board its inaugural sailing on 11th March – an 8-day sailing in the Red Sea. Emerald Azzurra will then transit the Suez Canal to embark on a series of sailings in the Mediterranean and along the Adriatic coast over Summer 2022.
The superyacht features 50 suites, with more than 88 per cent with balconies, a large infinity pool, spa, gym and an infrared sauna. A marina platform, with SEABOBs, paddleboards and snorkelling equipment is also available as well as a fleet of electric bikes from Gocycle.
In a new partnership with Qatar Tourism, Emerald Azzurra will offer 7-night sailings from Doha, commencing January 2023. Currently under construction, the new Grand Cruise Terminal is located in central Doha, near the Museum of Islamic Art and Souq Waqif.
The terminal will have the capacity to host two mega ships and will offer various attractions, including an aquarium and art gallery.
Emerald Azzurra will be joined by sister yacht Emerald Sakara in February 2023, with itineraries to the Seychelles,
Black Sea and Middle East.
26 travelmatters.biz


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February ’22
Virgin Atlantic
Orlando from April
Barbados confirmed for 22/23
Coming to America
Fly direct to New York, Boston, Chicago, Washington, Orlando
Canada
Now flying to Toronto
New sunshine for ’22
• Sun Express Antalya
• Turkish Airlines Dalaman & Anatalya • Jet2.com Greek island adventures
Take off with
these City Breaks
• Rotterdam • Bari
• Marrakesh
Scan to
view the 2022 Flight guide


Swap winter chill for Caribbean thrill
Discover the amazing island of Barbados with Virgin Atlantic
In 2021, Virgin Atlantic launched the only direct service from Edinburgh to the Caribbean with a twice weekly flight to Barbados.
Departing during the winter means it’s the perfect opportunity to escape the chill and discover incredible beaches, food, rum cocktails and most importantly – lovely, warm Caribbean sunshine.
If magic is more your thing, Virgin Atlantic also flies direct from Edinburgh to Orlando. So that dream family holiday is even easier than before.
THE BEST OF BARBADOS
Virgin Atlantic have an office in Barbados, so really know the local highlights. Here’s a few of them to help you, our Trade Partners, find selling success to beautiful Barbados. It may even inspire you to head there yourself...
Get those flip flops on and start with the very best beaches. Folkestone Marine Park is great for snorkelling, giving customers the opportunity to rent equipment and discover colourful fish gliding through coral in the calm waters of the west coast.
Port St Charles Marina is a favourite of the rich and famous. A perfect spot for some people watching and even maybe a cheeky selfie with a star.
Whilst it’s tempting to stay on the stunning beaches of the west coast, don’t miss out on the rugged east coast. If a palm-lined, very private location is what gets the sand tickling your toes, then look no further than Bottom Bay. Mainly used by locals, this east coast beach is a great place to visit. Or head to Ragged Point Lighthouse, the most easterly point on the island. You can stroll along the clifftops and take in the spectacular views, exhilarating breezes and great photo opportunities.
No trip to Barbados is complete without a trip to the surf
spot of Bathsheba and the Soup Bowl. It’s breathtakingly beautiful, with wide white
sand beaches and striking rock formations where the Atlantic rollers break into cascades
of foam. The small village of Bathsheba is a friendly fishing community that offers local rum shops and restaurants to discover, too.


FLY VIRGIN ATLANTIC STYLE
ECONOMY LIGHT
Your customers can check-in easily online with hand luggage only. Onboard, they’ll relax into their seat with 31” seat pitch. There’s fantastic inflight entertainment, a three-course meal, drinks and snacks to enjoy. While Inseat power and Wi-Fi* will help them stay connected to business.
ECONOMY CLASSIC
Your customers can check-in online, choose their seat in advance for free and take one 23kg checked bag. Onboard, they’ll relax into their seat with 31” seat pitch. There’s fantastic inflight entertainment, a three- course meal, drinks and snacks. Inseat power and Wi-Fi* will help them stay connected to business.
ECONOMY DELIGHT
Your customers will enjoy Premium Check-in and priority boarding and they can take one 23kg checked bag. Onboard, they’ll stretch out and relax in an extra legroom seat with 34” seat pitch. There’s inflight entertainment, a three-course meal, drinks and snacks. Inseat power and Wi-Fi* will help them stay connected to business.
PREMIUM
Your customers will benefit from Premium Check-in and priority boarding. They’ll enjoy a glass of welcome bubbly onboard while stretching out in their spacious leather seat with 38” seat pitch. There’s a choice of dishes served on a premium table setting, while
inseat power and Wi-Fi* will keep them connected
to business.
UPPER CLASS
Your customers can breeze through a dedicated check-in area, before unwinding with drinks, food and comfy seats in the lounge**. Onboard, they can relax, work, or just drift off to sleep in their Upper Class Suite with fully flat bed. There’s imaginatively designed dishes
to enjoy, an expertly curated drinks menu and an exclusive onboard social space.
*From £4.99. ** Lounge facilities vary at each destination.
THE DETAILS
Virgin Atlantic’s direct service from Edinburgh
to Orlando starts on 30th March 2022 and will operate twice weekly on an A330-300. Direct flights from Edinburgh to Barbados will start on 12th December 2022 and will depart twice weekly on an A330-300.
Flights are available to book right now.


NORTH AMERICA
Set your sights
on Canada
With seasonal non-stop flights from Edinburgh to Toronto, starting June 2022, there’s no better way to start your journey west than with WestJet.
Experience Canada’s stunning scenery and vibrant cities with flights to Toronto and connections across Canada. From Niagara Falls to the Rocky Mountains, surround yourself with Canada’s natural wonders and wide-open spaces as you reconnect with friends, family and yourself.
During your travels, WestJet safely connects you with the people and places you’ve missed the most. Window or aisle? Movie or Podcast? Travel in comfort and with peace of mind knowing our aircrafts are cleaned extensively and all are equipped with HEPA filters.
Our crew members will be happy to welcome you aboard
WestJet’s crew and our caring nature is what made us the best Canadian airline in 2019 according to TripAdvisor. Flights from Edinburgh to Toronto are operated by our Boeing 737 MAX.
Your customer’s Canada experience starts with WestJet
WestJet seasonal summer schedule starts June 2022 servicing EDI to YYZ.
Premium cabin shown on a Boeing 737.
Available when booking a Premium fare on Edinburgh - Toronto flights. Schedule subject to change.
Canada, now open
We’re pleased to reconnect Scotland and Canada with the return of our non-stop daily flight from Edinburgh to Toronto, resuming 02 June, 2022 with service operated by Air Canada.
En route from Edinburgh, travellers will experience our award-winning service and travel in ultimate comfort aboard our state-of-the-art energy efficient Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft.
CHOOSE YOUR SEAT AMONG THE CLOUDS ECONOMY CLASS
Offering hours of on-demand seatback entertainment, as well as complimentary wines, spirits and meals.
PREMIUM ECONOMY CLASS
Offering a dedicated cabin with a larger seat, extra leg room and priority check-in, boarding and baggage handling.
READY FOR TAKEOFF
Our network conveniently connects you via our principal hub of Toronto to an array of worldwide destinations with a simplified process that offers speed, efficiency and premium services.
Plus, passengers travelling to the United States, are able to pre-clear U.S. customs and immigration formalities without changing terminals or collecting checked baggage.
Information correct at time of print. Images for illustrative purposes only and may not be reflective of current travel protocols.


NORTH AMERICA
United Airlines to
resume service between
Scotland and the USA
Starting 05 March 2022, United Airlines will resume year-round daily nonstop services between Edinburgh and New York/Newark.
United will also resume daily nonstop seasonal services to Chicago O’Hare and Washington D.C. on 07 May 2022. United will be the first airline to resume service between Scotland and the U.S. and will offer more services between the two countries than any other airline.
Flights will be operated with Boeing 757-200 aircraft, featuring a total of 169 seats – 16 flat-bed seats in United PolarisSM Business Class and 153 in Economy, including 45 Economy PlusSM seats with added legroom and increased personal space.
e
United is committed to putting health and safety at the forefront of every customer's journey, with the goal of delivering an industry-leading standard of cleanliness through its United CleanPlusSM programme. Customers can review COVID-19 entry requirements, find local testing options and upload any required testing and vaccination records for domestic and international travel, all in United’s Travel Ready Center.
Visit Jetstream.united.com for the latest information
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experience that prioritises relaxation and comfort, featuring quality in-flight dining, premium amenity kits and full flat-bed seats.
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Depart
Arrive
Frequency
Aircraft
Dates of operation
UA37 EDI EWR 09:40
UA36 EWR EDI 20:20
UA119 EDI ORD 11:30
UA118 ORD EDI 18:15
UA979 EDI IAD 12:30
UA978 IAD EDI 22:25
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Daily
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757-200 5 March 2022 onwards
757-200 4 March 2022 onwards
757-200 7 May 2022 onwards
757-200 6 May 2022 onwards
757-200 7 May 2022 onwards
757-200 6 May 2022 onwards
Excellent connectivity
with Delta Air Lines
Delta Air Lines will resume its direct services to New York (JFK) commencing May 2022 and to Boston starting at the end of May 2022.
Both routes will be served on the larger Boeing 767 aircraft and clients can look forward to fantastic city breaks, as well as excellent connectivity throughout North America.
Delta has launched numerous measures to ensure a safe experience for customers - from check-in to baggage claim. Cleanliness continues to be a crucial part of
the Delta CareStandard and integral to the premium experience the airline offers its customers.
These measures include:
CLEAN AIR - The air on Delta aircraft is completely refreshed 10 to 30 times per hour (every 2 to 6 minutes) with fresh outside air or air that has been circulated through industrial-grade HEPA filters, which extract more than 99.99% of particles, including viruses - the same types of filters used in hospital operating rooms.
CLEAN SURFACES - Delta regularly cleans and sanitizes high-touch areas onboard planes and at the airport. Aircraft interiors are also sprayed each night with high- grade disinfectant.
CLEAN HANDS - Last year, Delta became the first U.S. airline to permanently install Purell® hand sanitizer dispensers near boarding doors and lavatories on most Delta aircraft. Flight attendants also offer Purell® hand sanitizing wipes to customers during the boarding process.
TOUCHLESS TOUCHPOINTS - Customers can make use of hands-free touchpoints and digital tools including digital onboard menus via seatback screens, contactless payment for onboard purchases and hands-free lavatory features like touchless faucets, flush levers and waste lids. And don’t forget the Fly Delta app to find key travel information.
A COMMITTED TEAM - Delta’s Global Cleanliness organization is continuously developing science-backed cleaning technologies and protocols that ensure the health and safety of customers and employees.


Toronto
Chicago Washington
Orlando
Chicago
Boston Washington
Santiago de Compostela Nantes
Bordeaux Poitiers
International Destinations
Faroe Islands
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Chicago Washington
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Orlando Orlando
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LanzaroteGran Canaria Tenerife Fuerteventura
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Key hubs
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Gothenburg Hamburg
Rotterdam
Prague
Geneva Toulouse
Bergamo Marseille
Florence
Bergen Bergen Oslo
Billund
Helsinki Helsinki
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Riga Kaunas
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Milan Venice Treviso
BasTeulrin Carcassonne
BarcelonaMarseille Alicante
Ibiza BéziersMenorca
Palma Mallorca Barcelona
Florence DubroPvanliekrmo
Istanbul
Dalaman Heraklion
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Naples Bari
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Naples Malta
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Munich FrankfurTturin
Krakow
Lyon
Vienna
Prague Bratislava
Basel Grenoble MunichInnsbruck
Budapest
Bologna Zadar Bratislava
Budapest Dubrovnik
Rome Ciampino
Bucharest
Lyon
Grenoble Zurich
Sofia Bucharest
Geneva
TuNrince BarcePloisnaa
BVoelongincea TrevZiasodar
use Lyon Reus
Milan
Istanbul
Dalaman Antalya
Rhodes
Zurich
Vienna Nice Pisa
Milan ChambéBréyziVeerrsona Venice
Bergamo
Bucharest
Florence MarseilleVerona Venice
Naples
Bari Sofia
Corfu
Preveza Sofia
Zakynthos Skiathos
assoGnrneMenaodbrlied Chambéry Dubrovnik Béziers Menorca
Bergen Stavanger
Stockholm
Helsinki
Tallinn
Stavanger Stavanger
DüsseCldooperfnhageBnerlin Billund Weeze
Rotterdam Eindhoven
Warsaw Chopin Krakow
Gothenburg BillunAdmsterdam
Gdan´ sk Riga
Oslo
Stockholm
Gothenburg
Copenhagen
Stockholm
Copenhagen
Kaunas
Kaunas Wroclaw
Katowice Chambéry Verona Venice
Venice Treviso Innsbruck
Ibiza
Nice PaPlmisa Mallorca Rome Ciampino
Bologna Zadar
Izmir Skiathos
Rome Ciampino Corfu
Athens
PoznanRiga Warsaw Modlin
Santorini
Kos
Athens Bodrum Santorini Kos
Paphos
Izmir
Heraklion
Rhodes Skiathos
Larnaca DalamanAntalya
Heraklion
Paphos
Rhodes
Larnaca
Doha
Doha
Doha


SUNSHINE
Turkish Airlines -
expanding its network
As Turkish Airlines increases its route network, here are the Top 10 Reasons to fly with the airline from Edinburgh:
WE FLY TO MORE COUNTRIES THAN
ANY OTHER AIRLINE
Discover more than 300 destinations worldwide via Istanbul.
DIRECT FLIGHTS TO ANTALYA AND
DALAMAN IN 2022
Travel to the Turkish Riviera in Business or Economy Class with direct flights commencing in the Summer 2022 schedule.
COMPLIMENTARY ONBOARD CATERING
Enjoy a delicious complimentary 3-course meal in all travel classes.
INDIVIDUAL INFLIGHT ENTERTAINMENT SYSTEMS
Choose from over 1300 hours of movies, TV shows and music free of charge and watch the time fly.
PRESSREADER APP
Get free access to over 7000 publications worldwide on the PressReader app 24 hours prior to your flight.
GENEROUS BAGGAGE ALLOWANCE
Don’t leave anything behind with an inclusive baggage allowance.
GOLF CLUBS FLY FOR FREE
One set of golf clubs per passenger flies for free.
BUSINESS CLASS EXCLUSIVITY
Travel in Business Class for ultimate comfort and luxury.
HOTEL ACCOMMODATION FOR INVOLUNTARY LONG LAYOVERS
Complimentary hotel accommodation may be available in Istanbul for longer connections of 9 hours in Business Class and 12 hours in Economy Class between two international TK flights if no shorter connection exists.
10 MILES&SMILES LOYALTY PROGRAMME
Get a free allowance as a Miles&Smiles member on aircraft equipped with Wi-Fi as well as earning air miles when flying to use towards award tickets, cabin upgrades and shopping at shopandmiles.com.
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SunExpress lands at Edinburgh Airport
A new service between Edinburgh and Turkey will launch for Summer 2022 as SunExpress lands at Edinburgh Airport.
This will be the first route from the capital for SunExpress, which was founded as a joint venture between Lufthansa and Turkish Airlines in 1989, offering numerous direct connections between Europe and Turkey.
The new service to Antalya will operate three times per week beginning in April 2022. Antalya offers everything for a great holiday: crystal-clear water, beautiful beaches, excellent cuisine and unbeatable value for money.
SunExpress operates one of the most reliable and modern fleets in Europe, comprising solely Boeing 737 aircraft – one of the longest serving and most successful aircraft families of all time.
In the event of unforeseen circumstances, the airline offers passengers a Corona Care Guarantee - with flexible booking options right up to the day of departure to rebook or cancel as well as new standards for safer travel.


SUNSHINE
Jet2holidays offers huge choice of Summer 2022 destinations from Edinburgh Airport
With a new year comes new plans, which makes now the ideal time for your clients to be booking themselves a Jet2holiday. There’s a huge choice of destinations available for Summer 2022 from Edinburgh Airport.
There are so many fantastic hotspots on the Jet2holidays map. But as they are the Greek specialist, travel agents really have plenty of mainland and island destinations to shout about on their behalf.
The jaw-dropping caldera views and iconic blue domes of postcard-worthy Santorini can be enjoyed for the first time with the company this summer, with flights from Edinburgh Airport. It’s a bucket-list isle that’s sure to turn heads.
Meanwhile, another new Greek destination from the tour operator is Skiathos, where an abundance of beautiful beaches and laid-back villages await. It’s also where
key scenes from Mamma Mia! were filmed. Plus, from Skiathos, the islands of Skopelos and Alonissos are both just ferry rides away.
What’s more, Parga and Lefkas are also new for Summer 2022 from Edinburgh Airport. Both lay on the Greek charm in spades, but they have their own unique highlights too.
The patchwork of colourful buildings makes Parga’s harbourfront simply idyllic, while various landmarks are scattered around and superb seafronts are on display. Meanwhile, Lefkas will draw your customers in with the epic Nidri Waterfalls, aquamarine waters of Porto Katsiki and lots of traditional restaurants.
These new Greek destinations are just four of the reasons why holidaymakers are spoilt for choice this summer from Edinburgh Airport. But there are so many options across the board with Jet2holidays, alongside plenty of ways to tailor stays to suit your clients’ style and budget. They can even opt for added space, peace and privacy with Jet2Villas, which come in all different shapes, sizes and locations. And if they’re looking to treat themselves, the five-star Indulgent Escapes are the epitome of all-out luxury.
Jet2holidays packages wrap everything up, starting with just a low £60 per person deposit*. This includes 22kg baggage and return transfers+ as standard and families can make the most of the Free Child Places^ that are up for grabs.
*On bookings made ten weeks or more before departure. Full payment required by balance due date.
+Unless otherwise stated. ^Terms and conditions apply.
Agents can read more about Jet2holidays’ offering at www.jet2holidays.com and all the gorgeous Greek destinations can be explored from www.jet2holidays.com/destinations/greece


CITY BREAKS
Fantastic new European breaks with Ryanair
In 2022, Ryanair will boost its network from Edinburgh, offering a number of new routes. Customers will be able to enjoy a range of European breaks including:
BARI
One of the largest cities on the Adriatic in southern Italy and the capital of Puglia - offering seaside charm and historical appeal and also known for its Old Town.
POITIERS
The charming historic city of Poitiers - in west central France - with its picturesque cobbled streets and thriving cafes and restaurants.
SANITAGO DI COMPOSTELA
The Galician region capital Sanitago di Compostela, situated in the far north-west of Spain, is well-known for its lively atmosphere and large network of ancient pilgrim routes.
MARRAKESH
Edinburgh Airport will also welcome the return of Ryanair’s direct route to the mesmerising city of Marrakesh from February 2022.
Looking for
somewhere different?
Latvian based airline airBaltic will be starting service from Edinburgh direct to Riga.
airBaltic is one of the most punctual airlines in the world and currently flies to over 70 plus destinations worldwide. Its fleet consists of Airbus A220-300 aircraft – one of the world’s greenest commercial aircraft in the skies.
airBaltic has received numerous international awards for excellence and innovative services, including a 5-star COVID-19 Airline Safety Rating by Skytrax.
Riga is a dynamic city, featuring incredible art nouveau architecture and gothic spires. Riga’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the city offers great restaurants as well as excellent value for money.


CITY BREAKS
Book forward to this summer with easyJet holidays!
Whether your customers are booking a fun- filled family holiday on the beach in the Canary Islands and/or an adults-only escape to a 4* luxury hotel – we have something for everyone, offering package holidays at Europe’s most loved hotels and at unbeatable prices.
What’s more, we will be adding the ever-popular destinations of Malaga and Rhodes to our extensive route network from Edinburgh in 2022.
Also, with flexible booking options, there’s no need for clients to worry should their plans change.
All easyJet holidays include flights, accommodation, 23kg baggage allowance and transfers on beach holidays.
All easyJet holidays are ATOL protected and are bookable with just a £60 deposit per person, with customers able to pay in fee free instalments in a timeframe that best suits them.
The holiday provider’s own Protection Promise offers flexibility and reassurance. Customers can change their holiday up to 28 days before they are due to travel without incurring any change fees.
So what are you waiting for? Think easyJet holidays and book those customer getaways this spring and summer.


Agent’s Guide
Online Flight Guide now available!
Edinburgh Airport has launched an online 2022 Flight Guide, designed to ensure the travel trade has access to all the very latest route information from EDI.
The easy-to-use guide is constantly updated with new information on who’s flying, where they are flying to and when. The guide can be downloaded using the QR code below, meaning everything agents need to know is right there at their fingertips.
This comes as the airport also prepares to launch a new online portal for the travel trade, packed with information about the getting to the airport, retailers and services available as well as downloadable destination maps. The Edinburgh Airport Travel Portal, which will go live in April, will help ensure the latest and most accurate information is always available to customers.
In addition to essential information and downloadable maps, there will also be access to exclusive travel trade car parking discount codes and other great offers.
But that’s not all. The portal will also contain details of the airport’s ongoing FlySafe campaign, passenger accessibility support and how to book as well as information on Greater Good – the airport’s sustainability strategy.
Scan to view the 2022 Flight Guide


Opening the Door to the World’s Most Luxurious Properties LUXURY VILLAS IN EUROPE
Villa holidays to Europe promise stunning natural beauty, miles of white sand, unique islands and calm turquoise waters. If you’re looking for a quick getaway or a short journey for your clients’ next escape, here is just a taste of the ONEE short haul villas. See our full portfolio at onee.com.
Greece
Villa Gaea, Mykonos
4 bedrooms/sleeps 8 From: £595 (villa/per night)
Ibiza
Casa Floral
6 bedrooms/sleeps 12 From: £586 (villa/per night)
Mallorca
Villa de Las Faldas
5 bedrooms/sleeps 10 From: £699 (villa/per night)
Sicily
L’Oasi di Caltagirone
4 bedrooms/sleeps 8 From: £750 (villa/per night)
Croatia
Villa Emilija, Dubrovnik
5 bedrooms/sleeps 10 From: £1339 (villa/per night)
France
Maison Perigord, Dordogne 5 bedrooms/sleeps 10 From: £510 (villa/per night)
For the Travel Trade Only, ONEE streamlines the villa booking process from start to finish with a portfolio of hand-picked luxury homes & yachts across Europe and beyond.
WHAT NEXT...
Interested in knowing more? ONEE Luxury Travel would be delighted to talk to you if you would like to join their growing community.
Go to www.onee.com for a quick 5-minute registration. If you would like to have a chat with their dedicated Travel Trade team, call 0208 142 4801 or send an email to [email protected]
To stay up to date with new properties and developments, join their Facebook Community:
facebook.com/groups/oneetraveltrade


NEWS
New livery for
Icelandair
As part of a complete refresh of the Icelandair brand, the airline is updating their airline livery - the first time the design has been changed since 2006.
TF-ICE, a Boeing 737 MAX 8 named Jökulsárlón (after Iceland’s famous glacier lagoon), is the first of Icelandair’s fleet to be painted in the new livery, with a total of five MAX aircraft to be completed by the end of February.
The airline will keep their special livery aircraft, including Hekla Aurora (painted with the northern lights), Vatnajökull (celebrating Vatnajökull glacier), and Þingvellir (dressed in the Icelandic national flag).
Icelandair will fly to more than 50 gateways in Europe, North America, Greenland and Iceland in 2022.
Destinations in North America will include Anchorage, Vancouver, Montreal and Baltimore as well as
Raleigh-Durham in North Carolina. The airline will continue to offer daily connections between Reykjavík and Iceland’s regional destinations as well as helping to open up Greenland, flying to four destinations.
Brits race to the slopes as easyJet sees lift in bookings
easyJet saw a 600% lift in last minute UK flight bookings to French ski destinations following the announcement that France will welcome back UK tourists.
Last-minute bookings to Switzerland also saw a peak immediately after the news broke with a 386% increase in flight bookings, suggesting consumer confidence in international travel continues to build.
Research carried out by the airline showed that around two-thirds (65%) of Brits are planning to prioritise
a trip abroad in 2022.
easyJet is operating 37 routes this winter from the UK to 10 destinations across Europe which serve the continent’s major ski resorts. These include departures from Edinburgh, Glasgow and Belfast to Geneva as well as Manchester and Liverpool.
Ali Gayward, easyJet’s UK Country Manager, commented: “With France welcoming British tourists once again, skiing is well and truly back on.
“This is welcome news for UK consumers, particularly for those looking to book a last-minute family break or planning to head to the slopes with low fares still available across thousands of flights to France
this winter.
“We know that there is pent up demand with many desperate to get away this year, which we continue to see each time restrictions are removed. With flying already scheduled to increase in the coming weeks we will continue to review our schedule to meet demand and we look forward to taking our customers away on a long-awaited break this winter.”
40 travelmatters.biz


CHOOSE RAILBOOKERS FOR RAIL HOLIDAYS WORLDWIDE
When it comes to independent rail holidays, Railbookers are the experts.
Whether a luxury journey on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, an iconic trip through the Swiss Alps, combining a number of historic European cities or
a Coast to Coast adventure across the USA or Canada, there’s a holiday
for everyone.
Flexibility is at the heart of everything we do. Adding in extra nights, extra destinations, combining different itineraries, starting from any UK rail station, booking flights or adding additional excursions and private sightseeing are just some of the ways we make customers’ holidays truly theirs. Short breaks or longer stays, if the train goes there, so do Railbookers!
A popular choice for many Railbookers’ customers is to explore Italy by train for a sense of adventure, romance and the ability to get anywhere in the country quickly and easily – from the canals of Venice and the monuments of Rome to the gorgeous coastlines of the Cinque Terre and the Amalfi Coast. It’s entirely possible to visit all of their favourite Italian destinations, from top to toe, in one amazing trip.
A firm favourite is our Grand Venice, Florence and Rome holiday where customers enjoy the charms and landmarks of three Italian gems on one scenic holiday along the rails.
Explore the cities to their fullest with sightseeing tours and skip-the-line passes all included with travel in First Class comfort throughout the trip.
This is one Italian adventure your customers won’t want to miss!
Did you know that with Railbookers, you can:
• Book up to 2 years in advance right through to January 2024
• Access to the largest selection of independent rail holidays worldwide
• Travel to 100s of destinations, on any date, for any length of time
• Receive full Price Parity and excellent commission
Find us at www.railbookers.co.uk or call us today on 020 3780 2222
DREAM DESTINATIONS BY RAIL
WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED
GRAND VENICE, FLORENCE AND ROME
8 DAYS
£1,599
PER PERSON
Geneva > Venice > Florence > Rome
HIGHLIGHTS:
• Arrive in Italy in style travelling through the breathtaking vistas of the Swiss Alps
• Spend a night enjoying the lakeside sights in cosmopolitan Geneva
• Sample the best of Venice with a gondola ride, walking tour, and Doge's Palace entrance
• Discover Florence's masterpieces with Uffizi Gallery entrance and a sightseeing tour
• Explore Rome with an Ancient Rome tour and Vatican Museum tour
FROM
AMERICA COAST TO COAST
15 DAYS
£2,249
PER PERSON
New York City > Washington > Chicago > Denver > Salt Lake City > San Francisco
HIGHLIGHTS:
• Hop-on, hop-off sightseeing tours of New York City, Washington, DC, Chicago and San Francisco
• Monuments by Moonlight tour of Washington, DC
• Sightseeing tours of Rocky Mountain National Park*
and Salt Lake City
• One-way Amtrak® in Coach accommodations
from New York City on the Northeast Regional®, Capitol Limited®, and California Zephyr® routes
FROM
VENICE SIMPLON-ORIENT-EXPRESS
to Venice with the
Glacier Express and Bernina Express
9 DAYS
£5,279
PER PERSON
Venice > St Moritz > Zermatt
HIGHLIGHTS:
• Travel in luxury aboard the Venice Simplon-Orient- Express
• Bask in the beauty of Venice
• Fall in love with the incredible Bernina Express
• Relax by the lake in timeless St Moritz
• Cross the Alps onboard the famous Glacier Express
• Admire the unmistakable Matterhorn Mountain from
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Call 020 3780 2222 or visit railbookers.co.uk to view all of our holidays and to access our travel agent toolbox with downloadable resources to help you promote what’s booking right now!
41 travelmatters.biz
7FDRAOYMS
8FDRAOYMS £1PE,R0PER4SO9N *
GRAND TOUR OF SCOTLAND
BELMOND ROYAL SCOTSMAN SCOTLAND’S CLASSIC SPLENDOURS
with Edinburgh and the Jacobite Steam Train
10FRDOAMYS
£P1ER,1PER9SO9N* £6PER,P4ER4SON9*
Inverness > Isle of Skye > Glasgow > Fort William > Edinburgh > London
HIGHLIGHTS:
• Enjoy an overnight train journey on the Caledonian sleeper
Edinburgh > Fort William > Edinburgh
HIGHLIGHTS:
• DEmiscboavrekrotnhethreicjhouhrisnteoyryofoaf bliefeatuimtifeulthErdoinubguhrsgohme of the UK's most spectacular scenic onboard the luxurious Belmond Royal Scotsman
• Get out onto the water on the remote Loch Carron for a private Seal watching trip. • Walk in the footsteps of Royalty with a private tour of Glamis Castle
• Cross the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct aboard the romantic Jacobite steam train.
• Explore Inverness, the gateway to the mesmerizing Scottish Highlands
• Tour the many unforgettable places and landscapes of the Isle of Skye
• Visit the Eilean Donan Castle, the most photographed castle in Scotland
• Take one of the worlds most beautiful train journeys through the West Highlands • and more!
SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS AND THE ISLE OF SKYE
EDINBURGH, OBAN AND THE WEST HIGHLAND LINE
£PE6RP4ER9SON*
London > Inverness > Edinburgh > London
HIGHLIGHTS:
• Explore Inverness, the gateway to the mesmerizing Scottish Highlands
• Tour the many unforgettable places and landscapes of the Isle of Skye
• Visit the Eilean Donan Castle, the most photographed castle in Scotland
• Discover Edinburgh's charms, such as its medieval Old Town and Princes Street
London > Fort William > Oban
HIGHLIGHTS:
• Explore Edinburgh's history with skip-the-line entrance to the Castle • Spend 2 nights in the beautiful seaside town of Oban
• Take one of the world's most beautiful train journeys through the West Highlands on the Jacobite Steam Train (April to October only)
• Enjoy an overnight train journey on the
Caledonian Sleeper
Contact Your Local Travel Agent:
NEW DOWNLOAD!
SCOTLAND WITH RAILBOOKERS Travel from anywhere in the UK
Papripcleysfoaresopleortpraevresollnerasn.dHsoutebljeacntdtoroaovmailfabcilityie, sbavsaerdy aondtwmoapyeboepsleubsjheacrtitnogaadsdtiatinodnarldfetewsi.nSormdeouhboltelrsoroemq.uPireicpeasyamrenstuobfjelocctatol cihtyantagxee.sSoingalerroivcacul.pPalnecaysesucpaplllefomrepnritcsinwgil.l We accept all major credit and debit cards. Railbookers UK Trading Ltd is a member of ABTA (Y6401) and holidays including flights are ATOL protected, number 7579.
9FDRAOYMS
visit railbookers.co.uk for your copy


Travel Matters speaks to
SHANE RILEY
VP International Sales Virgin Voyages
What attracted you to work for
Virgin Voyages?
I was truly inspired by Virgin Voyages’ vision to curate an Epic Sea Change For All. It was clear to me that this was much more than a vision statement - it would chart the course
of the brand and the decisions we make, ensuring that we provide epic experiences for our Crew, our Sailors, our First Mates and the communities we visit. As well as ensuring
we sail green to keep the oceans blue, being absolutely committed to taking care of our oceans. I’m incredibly lucky to have this once in a lifetime opportunity to play my part in building a brand new way to ‘sea’ the world.
How big an opportunity is Virgin
Voyages for the retail travel trade?
HUGE! With another two ships being delivered this year, we are growing quickly and this brings new opportunities for the retail travel trade to attract new clients. Whilst we know there will be customers that will be switch-sold to Virgin Voyages from other brands, the bigger opportunity is to attract new clients that perhaps would not have considered a cruise before but with so much included we’re already taken care
of some of those tricky questions like dining time, tips and hidden extras - we include so much in the voyage fare.
What can guests expect onboard
a Virgin Voyages ship?
The opportunity to truly rejuvenate with wellness and personal style spaces on board offering a proper dose
of Vitamin Sea. More than 20 distinctive and delicious specialty eateries bringing fresh ingredients and made to order cooking together to crush any craving. Immersive
and modern entertainment with choices from a festival-like lineup to the world’s most-talked-about producers, directors, choreographers and artists.
What are the major differences that agents and their clients need to know about that sets you apart from other cruise lines?
The Virgin Voyages experience re-thinks cruising from
the bottom up. We are Adult-by-Design and that comes across through every facet of the experience. We’ve always been buffet-free, with all meals made to order and a true-restaurant experience at our 20 plus eateries. We’ve embraced digital interactions across the board, for example, with our digital queues for dining and The Band. We offer over $600 in value on every voyage so there’s no surprises -
Wi-Fi, all food, essential drinks, group fitness classes and
tips are all included.
How important are the trade to your
sales goals and ambitions?
Partnership with the trade means the world to us. We know that when our First Mates do well, we do well. To reach our goals together, we’ve committed to being Brilliant to Do Business With by offering: a compelling 16% commission with no NCFs (and 10% on everything sold before a Sailor sails), showcasing our extraordinary experience, respecting client relationships and sharing inside intel.
What support can you offer to the
trade who want to sell your product?
Through our online learning platform, Seacademy and a blended journey of educational opportunities, marketing materials and actually getting aboard our ships, we’re always ensuring our First Mates have the Inside Intel and the first- hand experience they need in order to share Virgin Voyages with their Sailors.
42 travelmatters.biz


Brilliant To Do Business With
FINAL DAYS TO SCORE OUR BEST DEAL OF THE YEAR
Last chance for 22% commission during Wave Season
Our biggest deal of the year is about to sail away! Hurry and earn 22% commission in ‘22 (but just for Wave Season) on voyage fare, while your Sailors score 20% off any voyage and $100 towards a prepaid Bar Tab, plus an extra 10% if they plan ahead and book
with our Pay in Full Discount — but only for a limited time.*
And as always, every sailing includes $600 in valuable extras, like dining at 20+ eateries, all gratuities, free WiFi, essential drinks, and unlimited group fitness classes.
“Scarlet Lady is not your typical cruise ship. From the moment you board, the ship sets the mood...And that feeling of Virgin being one step ahead of your expectations continues all the way round the ship.”
– Cruise Critic
LEARN MORE AT FIRSTMATES.COM
FOR PACKAGES, VISIT TRADE-VOYAGESTORE.COM
Please visit virginvoyages.com/promotions-terms-and-conditions for full Terms & Conditions.


USA
PEPPA PIG THEME PARK TO OPEN IN CENTRAL FLORIDA
The world’s first Peppa Pig Theme Park opens on 24 February, 2022 just a few muddy puddles away from LEGOLAND® Florida Resort.
The new theme park will delight little ones with interactive rides and themed playgrounds. Six fun rides, Daddy Pigs Roller Coaster, Peppa Pig’s Balloon Ride, Grandad Dog’s Pirate Boat Ride, Grampy Rabbit’s Dinosaur Adventure, Mr Bull’s High Striker and Peppa’s Pedal Bike Tour and George’s Tricycle Trail
will have families snorting, giggling and jumping with joy.
Meet Peppa and her friends for a fairground adventure or find your way through the maze at George’s Fort, climb into the Treehouse and join Peppa for ‘high tea’ or discover what has left mysterious footprints on the ground as you explore the nature trail with Madam Gazelle.
The park will open as a Certified Autism Centre along with enhanced ride and play accessibility. Guests will enjoy Peppa Pig’s Balloon Ride from whimsical baskets specially designed to allow children who use wheelchairs to roll on without the need to transfer from their wheelchairs.
The Muddy Puddles Splash Pad will be specially graded for wheelchair use with several heights of water play which will be choreographed for the enjoyment of all abilities.
Peppa’s Pedal Bike Tour and all the Fun Fair free game counters have been constructed at accessible heights to be easily enjoyed by everyone.
In addition to the accessibility enhancements and Certified Autism Centre programme, a comprehensive Accessibility Guide will outline the many services and access points available to help families plan their day of adventure.
Peppa Pig Theme Park and LEGOLAND® Florida One Day Combo Ticket costs £99 per person.
Other combination tickets available. Agents can book tickets through www.DoSomethingDifferent.com Tel: 0208 090 3890
Greater Palm Springs launches new digital wellness pass
Surrounded by four scenic mountain ranges and well known for its health, wellness and hot springs, Greater Palm Springs is ideal for travellers seeking year- round sunshine.
Launching this month, visitors will now be able to enjoy the area’s wellness experiences with a new digital wellness pass. Valid until 31 March, the new mobile exclusive passport features a collection of curated wellness locations, offering deals and discounts.
Free to download, over 15 hotel and private spas, beauty centres and fitness studios have signed up to take part providing special offers, prizes, treatment discounts, free yoga classes and day passes.
To activate the passport, visitors simply enter a mobile number and the passport is instantly delivered via text and email
s and is ready to use instantly. There is
Participating venues include La Quinta Resort & Club, Estrella Spa at Avalon Hotel & Bungalows, The Well Spa at Miramonte Indian Wells Resort and Spa and Agua Caliente Resort Casino Spa, Rancho Mirage.
For more information on live offers, visit visitgreaterpalmsprings.com/ wellness-pass
added to the home screen for one-ta access.
When visiting a participating busines s
travellers simply check-in and record d
their visit on the pass to activate exclusive offers, extras, discounts and prizes.
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44 travelmatters.biz


SAFARI WILDERNESS – Lakeland, FL
LEGOLAND® FLORIDA RESORT – Winter Haven, FL
WESTGATE RIVER RANCH RESORT – Lake Wales, FL
Where Small Toys Lead To Big Adventures.
When it comes to incredible outdoor fun that your whole family will love, Florida’s Sweetest Spot delivers—every time. Discover our attractions, activities, animals and more at VisitCentralFlorida.com—including the new Peppa Pig Theme Park located steps from LEGOLAND® Florida Resort’s front gate and opening in 2022.




We bring the spirit of
Iceland to the world
Top 3 must­try experiences while on Stopover in Iceland
1. Snæfellsnes Peninsula
The Snæfellsnes Peninsula is located on the West coast of Iceland, a few hours drive north of Reykja­ vík, Iceland’s capital. It’s well known for its many gorgeous sights. Mount Kirkjufell, for example, is one of the most iconic and picturesque mountains in all of Iceland. Snæfellsjökull glacier towers
over the peninsula like an Icelandic Mt. Fuji. Black beaches, rock formations, cute lighthouses and the beautiful town of Stykkishólmur—there’s so much to see. Don’t miss out.
2. The Golden Circle
— Gullfoss, Geysir, Þingvellir
The Golden Circle takes you on a tour of three locations that’re close to the heart of every Icelander; to the immense Golden Waterfall


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Gullfoss, to the explosively powerful Geysir, a geothermal geyser, and finally to the pristine beauty of the national park Þingvellir, the cradle of Icelandic democracy and a national symbol of independence and sovereignty. The Golden Circle never disappoints.
3. Jökulsárlón
Jökulsárlón is a true must­see. It sounds like a mouthful, but you can get the hang of it easily: it’s pronounced like yeu-kuhls-hour-loan. It’s formed
by water running off from Iceland’s largest glacier, Vatnajökull—a behemoth covering approximately 8% of the country—and it’s located close to the South coast. Crystal­clear chunks of glacial ice float around the massive and serene Glacial Lagoon, making it
a sight to behold. There aren’t many places in the world like it.
How do you Stopover in Iceland?
When you fly Icelandair across the Atlantic you can choose to stop over in Iceland for up to 7 days at no additional airfare.
This means that a Stopover can be the perfect mini­ holiday to treat yourself to—a unique opportunity
to take some quality time off, catch your breath and explore the unspoiled and pure nature of Iceland.
And then, once you’re well rested, you just take off again and complete your journey.
4h icelandair.com 5h
6h
7h
It’s almost like stepping into an alternate dimension
or fantasy world—and pressing the pause button on life’s worries at the same time. You can just sit back
9h
... and enjoy. It’s pretty special.
Heading to the US?
If you’ve been planning a trip to the US or Canada, the best way to go is via Icelandair—not only because you can Stopover in Iceland while en route out west—but also because of the broad selection of destinations on offer, including New York, Boston, Seattle, Washington D.C., Chicago, Orlando, Minneapolis, Raleigh­Durham, Toronto and Vancouver.
REYKJAVÍK ICELAND KEFLAVÍK
1h
2h
3h
EGILSSTAÐIR
2h
1h
ÍSAFJÖRÐUR AKUREYRI
8h


USA
Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line teams up with Margaritaville
Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line has partnered with Margaritaville to launch Margaritaville at Sea, an offshore resort experience.
The 10 deck, 658 passenger cabin cruise ship, Margaritaville Paradise will set sail on her first cruise on 30th April, departing from the Port of Palm Beach, Florida to Grand Bahama Island.
Following a multi-million investment and refurbishment, the ship will feature Margaritaville’s signature casual- luxe design with a choice of entertainment on board. Formerly Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line’s flagship vessel, Grand Classica, the ship will offer plenty of dining options, including JWB Prime Steak & Seafood, Frank and Lola’s Pizzeria, Port of Indecision Buffet, a sports bar, a coffee shop as well as the Euphoria Lounge, Sunset Bar and
5 O’Clock Somewhere Bar.
Onboard leisure activities and entertainment will include a casino, theatre, spa and fitness centre and pools.
Oneil Khosa, CEO of Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line, who will serve as CEO of Margaritaville at Sea, comments: “We’re excited about this new partnership as we launch Margaritaville at Sea out of the Port of Palm Beach. We are incredibly proud of what we’ve built at Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line and are appreciative of our loyal customers and trade partners who have stood by us through so much.
“The collaborative concept will add a different dimension to the cruising industry, appealing to a new audience
of travellers.”
BLAZE YOUR OWN TRAIL....
Mardi Gras returns to Universal Orlando Resort
Universal Orlando’s Mardi Gras is back - taking place from 5th February through 24th April with live concerts, special events and a Mardi Gras parade, all included in the price of admission to Universal Studios Florida.
Music legend Diana Ross, global superstar Khalid, Grammy- nominated DJ and producer Marshmello and 12 other top artists will perform live on select nights during Universal’s Mardi Gras celebration. All concerts will take place at the Music Plaza stage - an outdoor venue inspired by the Hollywood Bowl - set against the backdrop of the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit roller coaster.
Brass bands straight from Bourbon Street will also perform daily throughout the park.
This year’s original parade theme, ‘Planet Mardi Gras’, will feature six floats that will join Universal’s traditional lineup of New Orleans-inspired floats – such as the Jester and nearly 50-foot long King Gator – and wind through the streets of Universal Studios Florida on select dates, accompanied by music and performers with illuminating costumes.
Guests will be able to taste cuisine from around the world and Mardi Gras-inspired cuisine will also be featured at select Universal CityWalk venues during the run of the event.
48 travelmatters.biz




USA
Seattle’s International Airport set to open new International Arrivals facility
Preparing for continued expansion of air travel between the UK, Ireland and Seattle, Port of Seattle’s Seattle-Tacoma International Airport is preparing for the opening of a new International Arrivals Facility.
The new facility will feature a new passenger walkway, extension on
A Concourse and the 450,000-square-foot Grand Hall (more than four times the size of
the previous space) which will all improve the international traveller arrival experience.
SEA is newly certified as only the second large hub U.S. airport to earn Skytrax’s 4-Star Airport Rating. This achievement follows a suite of improvements to enhance the airport experience, including doubling the number of international gates from 12 to 20; increase in passenger capacity by more than double to 2,600 passengers an hour; additional passenger facilities; enhanced technology; more baggage carousels and the minimum passenger connection time has reduced from 90 to 75 minutes.
In 2022, direct non-stop flights to Seattle will be available with American Airlines, British Airways, Delta Air Lines and Virgin Atlantic. Aer Lingus will fly direct from Dublin with customs pre-clearance and Icelandair offers flights
via Reykjavik.
To plan a trip to Seattle and Washington state go to www.seattlecruisealaska.co.uk.
New Capital Region USA tour from Newmarket Holidays
Newmarket Holidays has launched a brand new escorted tour exploring the Capital Region USA.
The 11-day tour is the first exclusive escorted tour in the region and includes time exploring the historic triangle of Williamsburg, Yorktown and Jamestown, the city of DC as well as a journey along the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Highlights include Charlottesville and the famous Historic Mall District, a pedestrian-only area packed with bars, shops, and restaurants; a scenic journey along the Blue Ridge Parkway; and Arlington, located on the southwestern bank of the Potomac River across from D.C. The Blue Ridge Parkway stretches 469 miles and runs alongside Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains with the beautiful Shenandoah National Park, offering some amazing vistas and viewpoints along the way.
Scott Balyo, Executive Director, Capital Region USA said: “Since the borders to the USA reopened for UK travellers, we have seen an increase in searches for the region which is a really positive sign. This new escorted tour from Newmarket Holidays is the first of its kind which solely includes product from the Capital Region, showing there is a demand for holidays with a historic theme which our region has in abundance. We look forward to welcoming holidaymakers on their tour.”
The 11-night trip costs from £1,868 per person with departures from September 2022 through to October 2023 with a choice of departure points including Edinburgh and Belfast City George Best airport. The price includes return flights, nine nights’ accommodation, five included tours and excursions, services of a tour manager and all transfers in the US.
Travellers who book by 28th February 2022 will receive a 10 per cent discount on the tour price.
50 travelmatters.biz