Travel Matters December 2019 Issue 33

ISSUE 33 DECEMBER 2019
BREAKING NEW GROUND FOR THE TRAVEL TRADE IN SCOTLAND, NORTHERN IRELAND, NORTH OF ENGLAND & IOM


Offer ends 31st March 2020
To find out more, visit MyClubRoyal
*Discount applies to the second guest sharing the same eligible stateroom on selected sailings.
†Fare only saving varies by stateroom and destination.**Prices may vary and exclusions apply. Additional T&Cs apply.


ISSUE 33 DECEMBER 2019
BREAKING NEW GROUND FOR THE TRAVEL TRADE IN SCOTLAND, NORTHERN IRELAND, NORTH OF ENGLAND & IOM
FLORIDA HIGHLIGHTS
PLUS
Dive into the Palladium Hotel Group Skiing made easy with Balkan Holidays
FOCUS ON SHORT BREAKS


Deck the halls....
Wow! We can’t believe it’s nearly Christmas - where has the time gone?
As we all reflect on 2019, it certainly has been a year of ups and downs - which seems to be the norm nowadays for the travel industry.
With Christmas celebrations well and truly underway and New Year not far behind, it’s always great to relax and get into the festive spirit before the madness of Peaks! This month’s Focus on Florida and Short Break feature highlights just a small selection of the numerous sales opportunities out there to promote in the New Year.
In the meantime, as you gather with family and friends, may we wish you all a Merry Christmas & a peaceful, prosperous New Year!
Get in touch...
Hilary Douglas
Director
07989 414454
[email protected]
* [email protected] www.travelmatters.biz
Travel MattersTM is published by GAH Publishing Ltd, 96 Craigleith Hill Crescent, Edinburgh, EH4 2JP
Printed by Claro Print
For magazine delivery and subscription enquiries,
email [email protected]
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in whole or part without the prior permission of the copyright holder. All prices and data are correct at time of publication. Opinions expressed in Travel Matters are not necessarily those of the publisher and GAH Publishing does not accept responsibility for any mistakes that may occur.
Gary Reavely
Director
07762 630057
[email protected]
Read last month’s issue online at...
Andrea Pellicci
Director
07766 010272
[email protected]
www.travelmatters.bi
Follow us...
@travelmatters.biz @ TravelMatBiz
@travelmattersbiz travelmattersbiz
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Alaska, by Cunard.
Breathtaking scenic voyages, immersive Alaska experiences and unforgettable Cunard style.
Stateroom upgrades available on Alaska voyages until 31 December 2019.
Stateroom chosen
Oceanview
Stateroom paid for Cunard Fare
Additional money to spend on board
Example below based on Alaska Roundtrip Q017.
Inside £2,249pp $140pp Flights and transfers are included in the Cunard Fare.
Remember, you’ll earn Shine points with every Cunard Fare booking you make. Redeem them on a host of rewards
- from electronics and beauty products through to experience days and even Cunard cruises.
Visit shinerewardsclub.com to find out more. Stateroom upgrades applicable on new Cunard Fare bookings made between 1st May 2019 - 31st Dec 2019 on selected voyages, subject to availability.


INSIDE GUIDE...
8
STAR event in Glasgow
13
Award-winning cruises with Scenic
18-27
Focus on Short Breaks
16&17
WIN! Your Celebrity Cruises’ moment
23
Valentine’s Escape with Hoseasons
2019 Graftas Awards
25
DFDS - savings on 2020 ferry crossings
27
Lufthansa - fly away for a winter city break
34&35
38-59
Florida Highlights
58&59
Plenty of adventures in Daytona Beach
72
Join MyClubRoyal - Royal Caribbean
64&65
Cash giveaways with Air Transat
DECEMBER 2019
6




AGENTS ATTENDED STAR IN GLASGOW
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DECEMBER 2019
8


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The Voice of Travel in Scotland
Well, after two years as Vice President, I finally took the Chain of Office as
the SPAA President on Thursday 5th December!
I would like to say that it is a great honour to be the first female Scottish President of the oldest travel Association in the world. Next year
is the 90th Dinner and in 2021, we will celebrate the Centenary of the Association, so there are some big celebrations ahead to look forward to.
But it’s not all about events at the SPAA. Behind the scenes, the Council are involved in lots of things.
We have representation on both Glasgow and Edinburgh Airport consultative committees; APJC; Fair Tax on Flying; Cross Party Aviation Group; AAC and we have been involved in the ATOL Reform Insolvency Review.
We have also worked very closely with MSPs and MPs this year to get our points across to them on items that affect our industry. This includes subjects like APD, ATOL reform
etc. We have engaged with our PR representative to get our views heard as well as those of our Members too. So as you can see, there is always something to do.
The SPAA also works as a sounding board to liaise with our Associates and Members in order to listen to any concerns they may have about our industry and to help wherever we can.
I announced at the AGM this month that we will be launching a scholarship programme for our Members to take on school leavers. This will be launched in the next few weeks - we are very keen to facilitate a training programme with the help of our Associate Members to bring some fresh new talent into our industry.
We will also be launching a recognition lunch in September for the people
at the coalface of our industry - the Sparkle Awards. These will recognise top sellers, newcomers and managers in both leisure and business travel.
So, if you are not a member of the SPAA, it’s time you joined! It would be lovely to have more Members being nominated for these Awards by their line managers.
With lots to be getting my teeth into, there is never a dull moment here at the SPAA. There is always an event to organise, meetings to attend and lots to keep up with, as the travel industry is forever evolving.
Now however, it is the time of year to spend with family and loved ones. May I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year and all the best in 2020!
Jo, President SPAA
The SPAA look forward to welcoming our many friends to next year’s
90th ANNUAL SPAA DINNER
Thursday 27th February 2020
at the
CROWNE PLAZA, GLASGOW
For tickets, contact Janice Hogarth on 07795 331 889 or email [email protected]
DECEMBER 2019
10


Diary 2020
February
11th Febuary
Associate Focus Group Meeting Crowne Plaza, Glasgow
27th Febuary
90th Dinner, Crowne Plaza, Glasgow
August
20th August
Golf Day – Lanark Golf Course
September
3rd September
Sparkle Awards Principal George Hotel, Edinburgh
10th September
STAR Exhibition Douglas Hotel, Aberdeen
March
19th March
Pre-Lunch Seminar & Spring Network Lunch, Marriott Glasgow
October
7th October
Associate Focus Conference
13th October
Members Dinner, Glasgow
April
2nd April
STAR Exhibition
Principal Roxburgh Hotel, Edinburgh
May
5th May
SPAA Glasgow Quiz
12th May
SPAA Edinburgh Quiz
26th May
SPAA Aberdeen Quiz Douglas Hotel, Aberdeen
November
Thursday 5th Nov
Annual Travel Awards – Doubletree Hilton Hotel, Glasgow
17th November
Members Dinner, Edinburgh
December
Tuesday 1st Dec
STAR Exhibition Doubletree Hilton, Glasgow
Thursday 10th Dec
AGM & Christmas Lunch, Glasgow
June
2nd June
SPAA Quiz Final – Glasgow
18th June
Summer in the City - Glasgow
For any information on the above events, please email Janice Hogarth - [email protected]
DECEMBER 2019
11


Jet2holidays held their 2019 VIP Conference at the AR Diamante Beach & Spa Hotel in Calpe
DECEMBER 2019
12
Congratulations to the Holiday & Flight Centre who won 2 awards - Top Essentials Seller & UK Individual Travel Agent of the Year for Jet2holidays!


Award-Winning River and Ocean Cruising
We’re delighted to announce our 2019 Cruise Critic UK Editors’ Picks Awards
“Cruisers might book Scenic Eclipse because it offers two state-of-the-art helicopters and a six-person sub, but they’ll come back because of the 200-passenger ship’s chic, modern design, generously sized suites and incredible dining offerings. Scenic pulled out all the stops with its first ocean ship, which seamlessly combines luxury and soft-adventure travel to exotic destinations, including the Arctic and Antarctica.”
Best New Luxury Cruise Ship
Best New Luxury Ship
(Luxury Category)
Best for Enrichment
(River Category)
“Scenic’s partnership with National Geographic has significantly broadened and deepened enrichment offered onboard specified cruises”
Best Shore Excursions
(River Category)
“Scenic Enrich excursions explore local culture and evening sundowner trips take cocktail hours to picturesque spots”
And it’s not just Cruise Critic...
Why work with Scenic?
Dedicated Trade Team to support with sales, marketing and training
Price parity promise
24/7 online booking system
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Unlimited luxury rewards for EVERY booking you make
Agent Portal with everything you need to help making selling Scenic easy
Agent Academy online training programme
Get in touch with our dedicated Trade Team
Call 0161 233 1988 or email [email protected]
Scenic Eclipse


Mauritius
The Mauritius island has become one
of the world’s most glamorous, exotic and desirable travel destinations. There are no high rise buildings, no concrete jungles and no mass tourism. You will however, discover white powder soft beaches embraced by coral reefs and fringed with coconut palms bordering azure blue sea lagoons. There are also dramatic mountain ranges, tropical forests, tumbling waterfalls, sugar
cane plantations, chic hotels with superb service and truly charming local people, who almost all speak English and French perfectly! Mauritian food
is a taste sensation and the island is blessed with an incredible choice of things to see and do, from the sedate to adrenaline fueled adventure.
TOP TIPS
• The island has an excellent bus service that is an ideal way to get out and about to enjoy the sights and sounds, as well as meet the local people.
• They drive on the left in Mauritius so great for hiring a car - or ask the hotel to hire a car and driver for the day and enjoy a guided tour with a local twist.
• Plan on taking a day trip to the Mauritian capital - Port Louis. Le Caudan waterfront area has some lovely shops and entertainment, the bustling market is well worth a visit as well as the sugar museum and there are some good places to eat.
Paradise on Earth
• The Botanical Gardens at Pamplemousse near to Port Louis have an amazing collection of interesting plants and shrubs. Wander around on your own or hire a guide at a very reasonable price to learn about its history.
• The boat and catamaran trips cruising off the stunning coast
are amongst the best you can experience anywhere – especially to Iles Aux Cerfs on the East Coast. This remarkable island will take your breath away, it is just so beautiful.
• Choose the North of the Island around Grand Baie for hotels, beaches and entertainment. The renowned East coast has many of the celebrated hotels and stunning white beaches. The West coast is favoured by
families for its flat calm beaches. The ‘Beautiful South’ is the island’s wilder coast and well worth a visit or stay.
• Peak season is October to March – it can be hot, humid and rainy. The ‘Winter’ season runs from May to September, when it’s generally warm and dry, with prices 30 to 50% less than high season.
STOPOVER IN ISTANBUL
When flying with Turkish Airlines, be sure to recommend to your clients that they stop off for a few nights in Istanbul.
e
TOUR ISTANBUL
A unique benefit when you fly with Turkish Airlines. If clients have a layover in Istanbul between 6 and 24 hours before their onward Turkish Airlines flight, they can take advantage of this free tour, allowing them to discover the delights of Istanbul for themselves!
Turkish Airlines flies to Mauritius with connections from Edinburgh, Manchester, Birmingham, London and Dublin. Your clients will not only love the excellent inflight service and amenities, but also enjoy a generous free baggage allowance in both Business and Economy class. Turkish Airlines flies to more than 300 destinations in over 120 countries worldwide.
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DECEMBER 2019
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Istanbul has it all - a spectacular setting, world famous sights and attractions, great shopping, restaurants and hotels and a truly vibrant and eclectic atmosphere.
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DISCOVER MORE:
with the airline that flies to more countries than any other
MAURITIUS


It’s easier than ever before to escape with the Best Luxury Cruise Line†. Book with four perks included – a premium beverage package, Wi-Fi, gratuities, and $300 to spend on board – for the ultimate in value and convenience. Alternatively, choose your favourite two perks, or even simply select cruise-only for our lowest available fare. And don’t forget, guests beyond the first two in a stateroom save 50% on their cruise fare. This offer applies nearly everywhere Celebrity Cruises sails – more than 300 exciting destinations worldwide!
FOR MORE INFORMATION AND MARKETING TOOLS VISIT CELEBRITYCENTRAL.CO.UK/CAMPAIGNS
The ‘Sail Your Way’ offer only applies to bookings new bookings made in GBP and Euro currency selected sailings of 4 nights or greater departing after 1 January 2020. Guests choosing a Beverage Package as one of their chosen amenities will pay an additional supplement which varies by length of the voyage. Minimum drinking age from North America and Canada is 21+ and elsewhere is 18+. Onboard spend offered is $150 per person. Single adult guests will receive the same amenities as applicable to two adult guests, but on an individual basis. For general booking conditions including advice on ATOL/ABTA protection, ‘Sail Your Way’ terms and conditions and applicable ships and sail dates, combinability restrictions, promotional terms and conditions, cancellation charges & other information, please visit www.celebritycruises.co.uk/terms-and-conditions or contact your travel advisor. General Booking conditions can also be found in the Celebrity Cruises 2020-2021 brochure. †British Cruise Awards 2019
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CELEBRITY REWARDS


SHORT BREAKS
AGENTS ENJOYED A FUN FILLED EVENING WITH LOGANAIR
DECEMBER 2019
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SHORT BREAKS
SELECT Travel by GLENTON
Clients can travel in comfort and style on board state-of-the-art coaches with Glenton’s Select holidays.
A Select coach journey offers extra leg-room, reclining leather seats, panoramic windows, a morning coffee and pastry as well as a Select welcome pack. Guests also stay in superior accommodation and enjoy a free guided sightseeing tour.
New for 2020, all Glenton’s Select holidays will now come with a free Door to Door service as standard, meaning that they will collect guests from their home.
For clients travelling from all over Scotland to join a Glenton holiday in Glasgow, the company will also arrange discounted overnight hotel accom- modation in the Holiday Inn Express Glasgow Theatreland, conveniently located and just a short walk to Glasgow Buchanan Street Bus Station.
The hotel offers accommodation with free WIFI and a free Express Start Breakfast.
British Airways to offset carbon emissions
From January 2020, British Airways will become the first UK airline to offset carbon emissions on all its domestic flights.
All customers flying within the UK next year on flights operated by British Airways will have the carbon emissions from their flights offset by the airline and invested in carbon reduction projects around the world. These quality assured projects will include renewable energy, protection of rainforests and reforestation programmes.
British Airways’ parent company, International Airlines Group (IAG), became the first airline group worldwide to commit to achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050, contributing to both the UK Government’s commitment to a net zero carbon economy by 2050 and the United Nations’ objective to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees.
IAG’s emissions’ goal will be achieved through numerous environmental initiatives, including investing more than US$400m in the development of sustainable aviation fuels over the next 20 years.
NORTH COAST 500 & ISLE OF SKYE
The North Coast 500 is a scenic coastal route which was introduced in 2015 to showcase Northern Scotland with beautiful beaches, glorious seascapes, historical ruins and quaint fishing villages. We explore part of the popular route heading north from our base at Gairloch. We take in the Lochinver loop to the picturesque village of Drumbeg and pass some of Scotland’s finest scenery as we go. Other treats on our twin centre holiday include the Highland capital of Inverness, seaside Dornoch steeped in history, the fishing port of Ullapool and the mystical Isle of Skye, the best known of the Inner Hebrides.
Mon 6 Apr 7 Days from £399
NEW FOR 2020
ARMAGH:
THE ORCHARD COUNTY
The picturesque county of Armagh is NEW known as ‘the orchard county’ thanks FOR to its many apple orchards. Indeed, our
holiday includes a visit to the Armagh 2020 Cider Company at Ballinteggart Farm to
COACH
CALL TO BOOK 0141 241 6058 WITH GLENTON YOU GET SO MUCH MORE
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CALL NOW FOR
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OR VISIT US ONLINE AT WWW.GLENTONHOLIDAYS.COM *Conditions Apply. E&OE
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experience the process of cider making from blossom to bottle along with some tasting of the apple products. Armagh City, the county town, boasts a wealth of attractions such as the Observatory
& Planetarium and the Armagh County Museum which traces the county’s heritage with its collection of ceramics, military clothing, wedding dresses and art. Sun3May,21Jun,5Jul,23Aug
5 Days from £459
DECEMBER 2019
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SHORT BREAKS
Experience award winning short breaks
from Riviera Travel
See the world within reach on spectacular short breaks from Riviera Travel. From Classical Spain to Gdańsk and Paris to Bruges, there really is something for everyone just a brief flight or Eurostar away. With fascinating included excursions ran by local guides and hand-picked hotels chosen by our in-house team, so much is included with honest and fair pricing from a UK brand you can trust.
Experience Rome on our guided city tour, with plenty of time to explore too. Rome was, is, and probably always will be, one of the world’s most compelling cities with probably more to see here than in any other capital on earth.
“Rome is most definitely my favourite short break destination, in fact it is up there as one of my favourite cities I have visited!” shares Emma Rodgers, Riviera Travel’s Business Development Manager for the North of England and Scotland.
“There are so many iconic sights, from the Coliseum to the Pantheon and so much history. Walking around the streets and getting lost in local culture, enjoying lunch in a street café or visiting one of the amazing gelato shops.”
The best way to explore this wonderful city is to wander where your feet take you, through its beautiful piazzas lined with layers of history, where the smell of fresh coffee drifts from the numerous cafés. Admire its monuments, meet its people, sample its food and let your mind be carried away into the magnificent past of what has always been and always will be, one of the world’s most truly beautiful and historic cities.
Next for 2020, you can also discover Gdańsk on a captivating city break. With its fascinating past, bustling waterfront and treasured amber produce, the Polish port city is a must-visit for lovers of history, politics and culture. Soak up the history of the city with a guided walk from the Złota Brama, past
the architecture along the Długi Targ, towards the famous Neptune’s Fountain and striking St Mary’s Basilica, as well as an expert tour of the grand 14th-Century Malbork Castle, one of the largest castles in the world, recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage site.
With experienced tour managers, local guides and knowledge of all the key landmarks and hidden gems, so much is included on our must-book short breaks. This is what makes us the UK’s most professional touring company, recognised by Which? for many of our 35 years. From the expertise of our friendly holiday advisers, to the care and attention of our dedicated tour managers, delivering experiences that create lifelong memories is a passion for the entire team.
As part of the Agency Sales team, Emma can provide full support for marketing and training on the new and existing tours. Get in touch on 01283 744307 or 07498 561 258 or email [email protected] to find out more.
DECEMBER 2019
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AWARD WINNING SHORT BREAKS WITH RIVIERA TRAVEL
Call us old fashioned, but we believe your customer’s holiday should be fairly priced without any compromise on quality, you can book with confidence knowing you are always getting the best value with honest and Straightforward prices all year round. Our thoughtfully crafted itineraries feature
a variety of fully inclusive tours and visits, with no hidden surcharges or fees.
So much is included in the price...
• Fascinatingexcursions,includinginsightful guided tours and visits plus free time to explore
• Knowledgeablelocalguidesandtheservicesof anexperiencedRivieraTraveltourmanager
• ReturnflightsorEurostartravelfrommany regional airports and train stations, plus all overseastransfers
• Hand-pickedhotelsofhighstandardswith breakfast and dining options and personal service
• Wepromiseyouandyourcustomerscomplete piece of mind as we’re a fully bonded member of ABTA and ATOL
• DedicatedSalesteamtosupportyou
SOLO
traveller departures available
BRUGES
Four days from only £269PP* Departures March to December 2020
ROME – ANCIENT & BAROQUE
5 days from £669PP Departures April to November 2020
MONET’S GARDEN, THE LOIRE VALLEY & FONTAINEBLEAU
7 days from £729PP* Departures April to October 2020
GDAŃSK
4 days from £419PP Departures April to October 2020
Contact our agency sales team
Call for support: 01283 744307 or email: [email protected]
Call reservations 7 days a week
Call to book: 01283 744370 or book online: www.rivieratravel.co.uk/agents
Riviera Travel booking terms and conditions apply. Prices correct at time of print. *Based on travel by Eurostar with regional stations available at a supplement
ABTA No.V4744


SHORT BREAKS
Flybe launches 2020
Summer schedule
The first phase of Flybe’s 2020 Summer schedule has been announced, featuring 104 routes with a choice of up to 2,500 flights a week across the UK and regional mainland Europe.
New routes from Southend will include Belfast City, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Newcastle, Isle of Man and Jersey which will be added to the four existing routes to Caen, Groningen, Newquay and Rennes.
Perfect for a short break any time of the year, Glasgow has been named the UK’s top cultural and creative city as part of a landmark report by the European Commission.
The report puts Glasgow ahead of London, Bristol, Brighton and Manchester which make up the rest of the top five in the UK. Edinburgh is ranked sixth in the list. As befits the city’s ‘People Make Glasgow’ slogan, the report also ranked Glasgow as Europe’s leader for ‘openness, tolerance and trust’.
The Cultural and Creative Cities Monitor 2019 report looked at 190 cities from across 30 European countries and ranks 29 different aspects of a city’s cultural health, including its cultural vibrancy, creative economy and ability to attract creative talent and stimulate cultural engagement.
Glasgow is home to more than 100 cultural organisations
and five of Scotland’s six internationally renowned national performing arts companies, including the Royal Scottish National Orchestra; National Theatre of Scotland; BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra; Scottish Opera and Scottish Ballet. It is also home to music venues including the Glasgow Royal Concert Hall, City Halls, Old Fruitmarket and SSE Hydro.
More people visit Glasgow’s museums each year than in any other UK city, outside of London, with both Kelvingrove Art Gallery and the Riverside Museum attracting more than 1.3 million visits each in the last year. The city is also investing £66 million in a full refurbishment and redisplay of The Burrell Collection, which will to re-open to the public in 2021.
Glasgow is also home to a year-round calendar of cultural events, ranging from the World Pipe Band Championships to the Celtic Connections festival, which every January welcomes more than 2,000 artists from across the globe to take part in some 300 events on 35 city stages to celebrate traditional and folk music.
DECEMBER 2019
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‘PEOPLE MAKE GLASGOW’


SHORT BREAKS
Go Active with
Enjoy a m
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with someone special...
Valentines escapes from £299*
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BE SOCIAL facebook.com/HollieHoseasons @HollieHoseasons
Last chance to book visit www.hoseasons.co.uk/agents or call 0345 498 6153
*TThe price advertised is per accommodation and based on accommodation only, for 3 night breaks between 14/02/20 - 17/02/20. Prices may differ depending on departure date. Prices
based on maximum occupancy. Offer applies to selected Lodge and Park locations and accommodation types- accommodation only. Hoseasons booking conditions apply – see brochure or
website. All bookings are subject to availability. Image may not be representative of specific offer. ABTA No. Y0662
Take a city break in
Haugensund
Haugesund, situated with canals between mainland and islands, offers visitors everything from shopping and entertainment, to restaurants and bars - all within walking distance. The city features art nouveau architecture, with corner houses and towers throughout the city centre as well as historical monuments and buildings.
Down at the harbour, there are several restaurants serving both international and local cuisine, along with plenty of bars to choose from. Lothe’s is considered one of the town’s best restaurants and at Naustet Spiseri, you will find local fish and seafood. Visitors can learn all about local history with a stroll along Kyststien, the coastal path passing Norway’s national monument, Haraldshaugen and finishing by the installation The Rising Tide.
For more information, visit: www.visithaugesund.no
For clients looking for a luxury active short break, Hoseasons offer a collection of Go Active Breaks, including stays at luxury lodge, Ladal Piperdam, near Dundee.
Sleeping 8 people, the New England style two-storey lodge is surrounded by over 500 acres of countryside and a number of activities are available including golf, a 40-acre loch, archery, fencing, Segways as well as a spa and indoor heated pool.
Guests will enjoy private decking next to the loch with a hot tub, sumptuous interior with flat screen TVs and panoramic windows with balcony.
DECEMBER 2019
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SHORT BREAKS
THE NORTHERN BELLE - LUXURY TRAIN TRAVEL
If you have clients planning a short break or celebrating a special occasion, why not suggest an unforgettable travel experience for them on board the luxurious vintage train, Northern Belle.
Travelling the length and breadth of the UK, clients can indulge in fine dining with lunch, dinner or Afternoon Tea; enjoy Murder Mystery journeys; attend special sporting or social events; visit castles and gardens and of course, celebrate Christmas in style, just like Gregorz!
DECEMBER 2019
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SHORT BREAKS
‘Train with Brainz’ for 2020
Bourne Leisure has seen a record number of agents complete its online ‘Train with Brainz’ course for 2020.
Some 317 agents have completed all three training courses from Bourne’s brands: Butlin’s, Haven and Warner Leisure Hotels – a 12% increase on the same period in 2018.
Commenting on this successful start to Bourne Leisure’s 2020 agent training, Erman Housein, Head of Trade Sales and Marketing, Bourne Leisure said: “We are delighted to see such high numbers of agents completing our brand-new training courses ahead of next year. All three of our brands have undergone major changes during 2019 and we have a huge amount of new information that can help agents better sell our three products.
“Supporting UK agents is always a priority for Bourne Leisure and I feel this surge in training is a direct reflection of
agents gearing up for strong interest in domestic stays and staycation booking options for 2020.”
The interactive and flexible online training modules are online now and provide the latest news and developments from all three of its brands. The training ends with a multiple-choice questionnaire.
Bourne Leisure is offering all agents that complete the training courses the chance to win a 2020 break with one of its three brands. The winning agent will be chosen at random and can choose from an off-peak Butlin’s or Haven break for a family of four or a Warner Leisure Hotels break for two adults aged 21 and over (selected dates excluded).
To complete the training, visit www.bourneexpert.co.uk. Entries close on 31st December 2019.
PRINT_2302_TravelMatters_EarlyBookingNA_v2.pdf 1 28/11/2019 15:43
Newcastle - Amsterdam
2020 Ferry Crossings
Save 15% on ferry crossings from Newcastle to Amsterdam and book your 2020 sailing now
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DECEMBER 2019
25


SHORT BREAKS
City breaks taking off, says Scottish Passenger Agents’ Association
Scots shoppers are splashing the cash on holidays, city breaks and spa days, according to the Scottish Passenger Agents’ Association (SPAA).
Members have seen a recent surge in bookings for trips early in the new year – with men more likely than women to take advantage of current deals on European destinations.
SPAA President Joanne Dooey said that short breaks appear to be an in-demand gift this festive season, with some of the most popular destinations including Prague, Budapest and Krakow. Traditional hot spots such as Amsterdam and Paris continue to sell in high volume too.
Joanne said: “We have seen a real surge in people buying short breaks and experiences like theatre trips and spa days as gifts than we have in previous years. Our members are also reporting that it is more men than women who are buying these.
“I think there are a number of factors at play here. Firstly, there are some amazing deals to be had on European city breaks just now.
“In Scotland, we don’t have a huge number of direct long-haul flights, but we do have an abundance of short-haul city break destinations from regional airports. This makes European destinations incredibly attractive for short breaks. In addition to overseas breaks, we are also selling higher than average UK destinations for concerts, theatre shows and spa days. Customers appear to want to give experiences and make memories, rather than the usual gifts.”
Fly from Scotland and the North of England to Europe with the Lufthansa Group
Enjoy a sparkling European Winter City Break by flying with Lufthansa from Glasgow, Edinburgh and Manchester to one of the Lufthansa Group hubs.
From 3rd February 2020, passengers will also be able to take advantage of a new Lufthansa service from Newcastle to Munich, the capital of Bavaria and gateway to the Alps.
Fly from Glasgow with Lufthansa who offer 7 weekly flights to Frankfurt and 5 weekly flights to Munich.
Lufthansa also operate Edinburgh to Frankfurt, as well as Munich; SWISS offer flights to Zurich whilst Brussels Airlines offer flights to Brussels. Eurowings also serve Munich plus both Cologne and Dusseldorf, on the picturesque River Rhine.
Allowing connections through our European hubs, passengers benefit from a large choice of destinations and many combination options. The Lufthansa Group airlines stand for high-quality products and services. With more than 700 aircraft, we have one of the largest, most modern fleets in the world.
DECEMBER 2019
26


COMING IN 2020 NEWCASTLE TO MUNICH AND
BEYOND
Six times weekly, starting February 3rd 2020


An absolutely life- changing trip to PERU with G Adventures
FAM TRIP REVIEW
by HAZEL HERRIOT, Barrhead Travel
Upon arrival into Lima, we met our amazing G Adventures CEO Yuri. He promised us he would be like our mum the whole trip and he did not disappoint! He was my ‘Mama Yuri’ the whole trip and was an absolute diamond from start to finish.
HIGHLIGHTS
A Peruvian cooking class called “Best bite Peru” run by the lovely Ruben Diaz, an ex-CEO from G Adventures.
He had set this up with a low interest loan from G Adventures’ ‘G values fund’ - an amazing opportunity for CEO’s
to branch out and set up their own business with the support they need.
An early morning flight to Cusco - the views out the window, flying over the Andes were unbelievable.
A full-day guided tour of the Sacred Valley, making stops along the way as we descended in elevation. First stop was at ‘Jesus Hill’ with breathtaking views. Also visited the G-Adventures supported Planterra project - the “Women’s Weaving Cooperative” in a small community called ‘Ccaccaccollo’. We got to meet the women and learn about traditional weaving and dyeing. We also visited another community to learn how the locals build their houses using clay/mud and straw.
We journeyed to ‘Aguas Calientes’,
the town nestled in the hills beneath Machu Picchu, from Ollantaytambo train station. It is a purpose built town for visitors travelling to Machu Picchu, with stunning mountain views. We took the ‘Perurail’ which winds through the spectacular ‘Urubamba Valley’. It had
a fully domed roof so that we could marvel at the sights en route.
THE ASCENT
On the big day, we had a very early rise to try to get to Machu Picchu before the crowds. We took the bus to the spiritual centre of the Incas - the “Lost City” of Machu Picchu. Even the drive up the winding road through the clouds was stunning.
Known as the ‘Cloud Forest’, you could see why - it was mesmerizing watching the sheets of clouds mysteriously blanket over the ‘Lost City’ and then reveal it again.
Had a guided tour of the ruins with an expert guide and learnt about
the history of ‘Intimachay Cave’, the ‘Temple of Water’ and the ‘Room of Three Windows’. It was so amazing
to explore the 15th Century UNESCO World Heritage site. Such a humbling and very special experience that I will remember forever.
SUMMARY
One of the many benefits of travelling with G-Adventures are the fabulous CEO’s. Kerry-Anne explained that on all the other tours that they do, the CEO’s are always just as brilliant as Yuri. He was more than a tour guide - he was
a friend.
I feel so lucky to have been on this fam trip. Peru is an incredible place and I would love to discover more and learn more about the rich culture and history that this wonderful place has to offer.
TOP TIPS
• Immerse yourself in the culture
• Try all the foods (Peruvian cuisine is
one of the best in the world)!
• Take Vitamin B1 for 1-2 weeks prior to and on the trip to help prevent mosquito bites
• Cover yourself in deet, then you don’t have to be wrapped up and too hot
• Drink Coca tea to help with altitude sickness
DECEMBER 2019
28


VIKING RIVER CRUISES - THE EXTRAORDINARY EVERY DAY
An included excursion in almost every port
At Viking, your clients will get to know more about the places they visit with
a free excursion in just about every destination. As well as visits to UNESCO World Heritage Sites, they can look forward to exclusive and insightful experiences, including home-hosted visits and cultural performances.
The guide by your side
Viking shore excursions are created to show not just the destination, but its people and culture. With expert guides who are both entertaining and illuminating, your clients will enjoy insightful experiences and authentic encounters that add immeasurable pleasure to their journey.
Whether they are wandering through the UNESCO–listed Castle District in Budapest or a traditional brewhouse in Cologne, picking grapes in a vineyard in Bordeaux, or chatting with a family in their home in a rural Russian town, they can see, hear, taste and touch the world, in all its glory. Excursions include:
• Kinderdijk Windmills. Enjoying a fascinating included tour of the historic network of windmills that are still in working condition on Viking’s Rhine Getaway itinerary.
• Terracotta Warriors. Seeing more than 8,000 life-size sculptures warriors, archers, horses and chariots at one of the world’s most amazing excavation sites on the unforgettable Imperial Jewels of China journey.
Carefully curated optional tours
As well as included excursions, your clients can choose from a variety
of optional excursions which offer something for everyone – from cognac blending in Bordeaux to a painting lesson in Southern France or sweating it out in a Russian banya.
Some popular visits include:
• Mozart & Strauss Concert. Enjoying classical performances by the Vienna Residence Orchestra on Viking’s Romantic Danube journey.
• Douro, Land of Olive Oil. Journey to the renowned Alto Douro
and discover the unique taste
of Portuguese olive oil on the Portugal’s River of Gold itinerary.
The Viking Way of Exploration
Viking offers behind-the-scenes insights and opportunities that set us apart from other travel companies. We also work hard to offer our guests Local Life, Working World and optional Privileged Access experiences, opening doors to places and people that would otherwise be inaccessible. Some of these special visits include:
• Hermitage Access on Waterways
of the Tsars. Experiencing St. Petersburg’s Hermitage Museum, home to the legendary art collection of Catherine the Great, with personalised, after-hours tours with expert curators.
• Working World of Volkswagen on Elegant Elbe. Few car factories are more impressive than the Volkswagen factory near Dresden. This is a fascinating tour of its facilities, including the ultra- modern assembly line where cars are assembled with a combination of manpower and computer technology.
For more information, call 020 8780 7985 or visit madefortrade.co.uk
DECEMBER 2019
29


Coming soon to Punta Cana (the Dominican Republic). December 2019
TRS Hotels in PUNTA CANA, CAP CANA (THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC), RIVIERA MAYA and COSTA MUJERES, CANCUN (MEXICO).


enjoying life, your way.
They’ll love the freedom, making a toast in your honor in exclusive suites and fabulous pools, in international à la carte restaurants, beach clubs and Zentropia Palladium Spa & Wellness, with personalized services and a butler. Freedom, without limits, for adults only.
With Infinite Indulgence®, it’s all included. Book your stay at TRSHOTELS.COM or call +34 971 926 486
Dive into the pleasure of having


The Taste of Barbados Roadshow headed to Scotland...
DECEMBER 2019
32


OUR MAN IN THE NORTH REPORTS ON...
MONACO GRAND PRIX! If you’re looking for something a little special for next year, I have just the thing. Experience the glamour of the Casino-de- Monte-Carlo and the thrill of the Monaco Grand Prix while in the principality, before discovering Florence's Renaissance treasures, Palermo's glorious cuisine, Malta's mythic beauty and Rome's legendary sites all onboard the World’s Best. The full itinerary is detailed below, or for more details, just visit www.crystalcruises.co.uk. See you soon!
If you would like to learn more about Crystal Cruises, just give me a call or send me an email: 07841 921533 | [email protected]
MARVELS OF THE MEDITERRANEAN
(C3 Grade Stateroom)
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION OR TO BOOK PLEASE CALL:
O20 7399 7601
BARCELONA TO ROME
Voyage OCY200522-09
Crystal Symphony | 22 May 2019 | 9 nights Highlights:
Barcelona, Monte Carlo (overnight), St Tropez, Florence/Pisa, Valletta, Palermo, Amalfi and Rome
Fares from £3,323 per person cruise only
www.crystalcruises.co.uk
ABTA No.V8548
Fares are per person, cruise only in UK sterling based on double occupancy in the specified stateroom grade for the first two full-fare guests in stateroom and include port, security and handling charges, which vary by departure. All fares, offers and itineraries are subject to change and availability and can be withdrawn at any time. Fares may fluctuate and should be used as a guide only. Prices may go up or down. You should contact us on 020 7399 7601 before booking, or visit our website www.crystalcruises.co.uk. The fares are available to new bookings only and are only available to UK & Eire residents. Restrictions apply. See crystalcruises.co.ukfor complete terms and conditions of all offers. © 2019 Crystal Cruises, Inc., Ships' registry: The Bahamas.
Jon Schofield


The Annual Grafta Awards 2019
Best cruise agency
Dawson and Sanderson
Best small agency
Westoe Travel
Best large agency
Dawson and Sanderson
Best business travel agency
The Travel Bureau
Best agency for a cuppa
Seaside Travel
Agent that is away the Most
Graham Brett - Westoe Travel
Best cruise line
Silversea
Best tour operator
Jet2holidays
Best airline
Emirates
Best bedbank
Bookabed
Best niche company
DoSomethingDifferent
Best hotel
Crowne Plaza - Newcastle
Rep with best goodies
Julie Nunes - Silversea
Best rep
David Steven - Emirates
Sponsored by
DECEMBER 2019
34
The Winners !


DECEMBER 2019
35


DECEMBER 2019
36




FLORIDA
Park Central Hotel, Miami
to be transformed
Spanning three original Art Deco buildings on Ocean Drive, plus a brand new edition, the historic Park Central Hotel is undergoing a $110 million transformation and will debut as Celino South Beach.
Featuring 1940s architecture, the original hotel was a popular hangout for stars like Clark Gable and Humphry Bogart. The 132-room hotel features include a rooftop glass-bottom pool, a library overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, Mediterranean restaurant and Cuban cigars. The Celino
is a signature project of Optimum Group and managed by Highgate hospitality company.
Perfect your golf at
Drive Shack
Drive Shack has opened its second U.S location in West Palm Beach, Florida. Featuring the latest in technology, Drive Shack offers interactive games designed for golf players
of all ages and skills; virtual courses allowing one to tee off around the world; and state-of-the-art golf equipment for enthusiasts looking to up their game.
An all-in-one golf and entertainment destination, the three-story complex features 96 climate-controlled bays with seating; a restaurant and bar offering craft beers, wines and cocktails; live entertainment and an arcade centre.
The Drive Shack Academy also offers clinics and one-on- one instruction.
National Geographic Photo Ark Exhibition now open
The “National Geographic Photo Ark” exhibition is now open at the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens. Featuring the work of National Geographic photographer and Fellow Joel Sartore, the exhibition will be on display until 1st March, 2020 and is included with General Admission.
The National Geographic Photo Ark is committed to documenting every species living in the world’s zoos and wildlife sanctuaries before it is too late—inspiring people
not just to care, but also to help protect these animals for future generations. Sartore estimates the completed National Geographic Photo Ark will include portraits of over 15,000 species representing several animal classes, including birds, fish, mammals, reptiles, amphibians and
invertebrates.
In what will be the largest single
archive of studio-quality photographs
of biodiversity ever, the National
Geographic Photo Ark continues to move toward its goal of documenting these
15,000 species in captivity, thanks in part to Sartore’s enduring relationships with many of the world’s zoos and aquariums.
The exhibition will highlight 56 of Sartore’s images and visitors will learn about the project, its mission and conservation efforts by the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens. The exhibition will also engage audiences of all ages through free educational materials and activities.
More information about the exhibition at the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens can be found at PhotoArk.JacksonvilleZoo.org
National Geographic Photo Ark fans can help save wildlife and their habitats by taking the #SaveTogether Pledge and visit NatGeoPhotoArk.org to learn more about the project.
© Joel Sartore/National Geographic Photo Ark.
A federally endangered Florida panther, Puma concolor coryi, at Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo.
DECEMBER 2019
38


tline un,
FIND YOUR
SARASOTA BEACH
Six islands occupy the coastline giving the perfect mix of sun, sand and water.
ous s 23
FLORIDA
DAYTONA BEACH
Spring break anyone? A famous party beach that also boasts 23 miles of unspoiled sands.
FLORIDA
VISIT FLORIDA launches new content hubs
VISIT FLORIDA has launched three new content hubs on its website. These include:
Accessible Travel
The Accessible Travel hub page provides users with information on accessible beaches, parks, events and activities, as well as destinations and attractions for visitors with autism.
From sensory-friendly attractions, to wildlife therapy programmes, the hub is a helpful resource for disabled travellers looking to make the most of their Florida holiday.
Adventure Travel
The “Adventure” hub features information on lesser-known destinations and adventurous activities throughout the State, from remote locations to snorkel from or beautiful places to set-up camp.
Eco-Friendly Travel
The Sunshine State is committed
to responsible tourism and to the preservation of its springs, oceans, beaches, forests and wildlife. The Eco- Friendly Travel hub provides information on Florida’s eco-friendly attractions, activities, dining, transportation and lodging - and even how to practice voluntourism.
The “Things To Do” tab on VISITFLORIDA. com now covers a total of nine content hubs. Each one is themed to provide information on the following topics:
3 Accessible Travel
3 Adventure
3 Black Heritage Travel
3 Eco-friendly Travel
3 FamilyHolidays
3 Hispanic Heritage Travel 3 Off the Beaten Path
3 Road Trips
3 Pet-FriendlyVacations
For more information, visit www.visitflorida.com
THE BEACH ROAD TRIP
Florida beaches are among the best beaches in the world. Whether it’s a quiet getaway,
a place to surf the waves or party all night, there is a beach for every kind of holidaymaker.
MIAMI BEACH
Not just for the rich and the famous, Miami has beaches for everyone. Party or chill, welcome to Miami.
CLEARWATER BEACH
Voted the nations number 1 beach in 2019...need we say more? Tempting crystal water and flawless white sand, truly paradise.
Use Florida’s vast interconnecting Scenic Highways and take them all in on a beach themed road trip. Get off the interstate and get in amongst the “SUNSHINE STATE”
DECEMBER 2019
39


FLORIDA
New Attractions 2020
The SeaWorld Parks have committed to THREE new attractions at their Florida parks after the success of their 2019 new attractions; Sesame Street Land at SeaWorld, Florida’s tallest launch coaster Tigris at Busch Gardens and high-adrenaline vertical wave wall, KareKare Curl at Aquatica.
These back-to-back attractions are unprecedented for the SeaWorld Parks and continues their legacy as one of Florida’s thrill leaders. Find out more about these thrilling new attractions opening in 2020 here;
Aquatica - Riptide Race
Get ready for Florida’s first-ever duelling water slide, Riptide
Race. Starting atop a 68-foot
tower, riders will take their marks
in side-by-side racing lanes at top speeds. Duelling face-to-face, racers will navigate tight loops and accelerations through indoor and outdoor sections. It’s a marathon to the finish through nearly 650 feet of splashing slide.
Busch Gardens - Iron Gwazi
Iron Gwazi takes thrills to new heights as North America’s tallest hybrid, and the fastest, steepest hybrid coaster in the world. Riders on Iron Gwazi will experience a dozen airtime moments, including three inversions,
as they sink their teeth into crocodile-inspired thrills.
SeaWorld - Ice Breaker
Named after the icy Arctic summits, Ice Breaker will feature four airtime filled launches, both backwards and forwards, culminating in a reverse launch into the steepest beyond vertical drop in Florida. Will you brave the ice?
You can experience these new rides and much much more with the great value 3 for 2 Ticket. This 14-day ticket gives you the ultimate flexibility to bounce between SeaWorld, Aquatica and Busch Gardens throughout your holiday. Pop back for special events, favourite animals, or ride that coaster for a second or third time. You’ll even receive FREE unlimited parking to make it easier.
© 2019 SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
DECEMBER 2019
40


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Experience our latest rides and attractions with the 3 for 2 Ticket.
It gives you the ultimate flexibility to bounce between SeaWorld, Aquatica and Busch Gardens throughout your holiday. Pop back for special events, favourite animals, or ride that coaster for a second or third time.
You’ll even receive FREE unlimited parking to make it easier.
PACKAGES FROM £131PP
VISIT DOSOMETHINGDIFFERENT.COM TO BOOK
© 2019 SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment, Inc. All Rights Reserved. TM/© Sesame Workshop. Individual terms and conditions apply, see dosomethingdifferent.com for details. Price correct at time of print and subject to change without prior notice.


FLORIDA
Build memories with Legoland Resort
A new hotel will open in LEGOLAND® in 2020.
Located just at the theme park entrance, LEGOLAND Pirate Island Hotel will feature 150 LEGO-filled rooms (including four suites), a heated pool (complete with LEGO soft bricks to build in the pool), hundreds of LEGO models, in-room LEGO treasure hunts and exclusive character experiences. Similar to the LEGOLAND Hotel, each room will include two separate spaces: a kid’s sleeping area and an adult area.
The five-story hotel will house the pirate-themed Shipwreck Restaurant with family-style dining, complimentary breakfast, Smuggler’s Bar for adults, an entertainment area with kid-friendly nightly programming and LEGO play areas.
© Legoland
A taste of Tampa
with a twist
Visit Tampa Bay has launched its new book, Tampa with a Twist, showcasing cocktails created by local mixologists. Known for its hip hospitality, the Florida destination features a host of cocktail bars as well as craft breweries.
Next year, there will be a number of new attractions including Iron Gwazi, which will be the tallest, fastest hybrid rollercoaster when it opens in spring 2020 at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay.
New water ride, Solar Vortex will also open next year at Adventure Island and an expanded Manatee Rehabilitation Center will reopen at ZooTampa at Lowry Park. These new features follow the opening of Moon Bay, which offers visitors the chance to touch non-stinging jellyfish at
The Florida Aquarium.
New properties set to open include JW Marriott in downtown; Aparium boutique in the historic Ybor City area; Current – which is part of Marriott Autograph Collection; and Hotel Alba, from Hilton Tapestry Collection.
New restaurants include a waterfront oyster bar, a quirky waterfront bar in an Airstream camper and an 80s-themed Gen X Tavern.
The region will be hosting Wrestlemania in April 2020 and the NFL Super Bowl LV will come to Tampa in 2021.
The cruise market also continues to expand, with Celebrity Cruises sailing to the western Caribbean from Port Tampa Bay in
autumn 2020.
Bourne Stuntacular coming to Universal Orlando Resort
Universal Orlando Resort has revealed that The Bourne Stuntacular will debut at Universal Studios Florida in spring 2020.
Based on Universal Pictures’ blockbuster Bourne film franchise, the live-action stunt show will follow the character of Jason Bourne around the globe.
Fans of the action-packed Bourne film franchise will enjoy thrilling chase scenes, death-defying leaps and danger
at every turn - right in front of them, with live performers, high-tech props and an immense LED screen, making it impossible to discern where the live action ends and the cinema begins.
The Bourne Stuntacular will be located on the streets of Hollywood at Universal Studios Florida, in the former location of Terminator 2: 3-D.
DECEMBER 2019
42


Fly to Orlando, Florida
Fun, sun and sand: Florida offers endless exciting activities for the entire family
Reykjavik I Anchorage I Boston I Chicago I Denver I Edmonton I Minneapolis I Montreal I New York (JFK & Newark) Orlando I Philadelphia I Portland I Seattle I Toronto I Vancouver I Washington, D.C.
n Fly direct from London (Heathrow & Gatwick), Manchester, Glasgow and Dublin to Iceland with easy connections to North America.
n 23 kg checked luggage (Light fares excluded), 10 kg hand luggage, 32 in legroom, in-flight entertainment and more.
n Stopover in Iceland for up to 7 nights at no additional airfare. + icelandairacademy.com


FLORIDA
Florida’s Sports Coast - Stay, play and discover a more exciting vacation
People across the UK are starting to make their summer travel plans. While some are going with classic favourites like Spain and France, the more daring are heading to more thrilling locations like Florida’s Sports Coast. Known as
a destination for the adventurous, Florida’s Sports Coast offers a more exciting kind of holiday.
With four amazing cities to explore
– and countless ways to get out and play – travellers who come here get a little bit of everything under the sun. Whether they’re exploring the Gulf
of Mexico by kayak, tackling tandem skydiving over Zephyrhills, or enjoying a one-hour hot air balloon ride over Wesley Chapel, Florida’s Sports Coast is a winning location for any Brit’s next trip abroad.
One-of-a-kind Outdoor Adventures
It’s the unique experiences and unforgettable memories that are drawing British travellers across the Atlantic. From safari-style tours at The Giraffe Ranch to cable-wakeboarding at Lift Adventure Park, kayaking breathtaking shorelines to exploring aerial obstacle courses at TreeHoppers Aerial Adventure Park, there’s some- thing for everyone on Florida’s Sports Coast.
Camping Adventures
With dozens of campsites to explore, visitors will find an unbeatable location for sun, fun and outdoor adventure. From primitive tent camping at Crews Lake Wilderness Park to cabin camping
at Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park, this area is home to some of the most beautiful camping locations in the Southeastern U.S.
Hiking & Biking Adventures
Home to hundreds of miles of paved and unpaved trails, Florida’s Sports Coast is a mecca for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Whether visitors are enjoying the 250-mile Coast-to-Coast Trail, the scenic 5.8-mile Starkey Wilderness Park Trail, or something in- between, there are dozens of trails for hikers and bikers of any skill level.
Paddling Adventures
For travellers looking to make a splash, Florida’s Sports Coast offers an unforgettable location for water activities. On the Gulf of Mexico and throughout Werner-Boyce Salt
Springs State Park, visitors can kayak, paddleboard or canoe to their heart’s delight while enjoying breathtaking views of mangrove shorelines and the region’s abundant wildlife.
Fishing & Charter Adventures
With 24 miles of beautiful coastline, Florida’s Sports Coast is one of the best locations to explore the Gulf of Mexico. All along the coastline, visitors will find great options for boat charters and fishing guides. With key sport
fish like red drum, spotted seatrout and common snook, these temperate coastal waters have been luring scores of fishermen across the Atlantic for many years.
To learn more about Florida’s Sports Coast, visit FLSportsCoast.com
DECEMBER 2019
44


Travel outside your comfort zone
A destination for the adventurous, Florida’s Sports Coast is the perfect place to score a more exciting vacation. Whether you’re cable wakeboarding, fishing or skydiving, there’s no limit to the unbeatable experiences you’ll find here.
HALF MILE OF CABLE WAKEBOARDING ADVENTURE Learn more at FLSportsCoast.com


FLORIDA
Take a ride to Virgin
MiamiCentral
Earlier this year, Richard Branson and Virgin Trains USA President Patrick Goddard, launched Virgin MiamiCentral, for Virgin Trains USA.
Connecting Metrorail, Metromover, Brightline and Tri-Rail, the transportation hub offers connections throughout Miami- Dade County through its various transit systems. With the combination of Brightline and Tri-Rail, it also connects the entire southeast Florida region. Virgin MiamiCentral also features Central Fare, Downtown Miami’s food hub, a Citi Bike share and designated drop-off-and-pick-up zone for Lyft, Brightline’s official rideshare partner.
Virgin Trains USA is the express intercity passenger rail service that currently connects Miami, Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach, with expected future service to Orlando and Tampa.
Record number of
visitors to Miami
The Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau announced a record-breaking 16.5 million overnight visitors in 2018, up +3.5% compared to 2017.
This rise in visitor numbers led to an economic impact of nearly $18 billion, fueled mostly by international visitors who contributed an estimated +54% of the total economic impact. The International overnight visitor market experienced the highest rate of growth, +4.1% in 2018 compared to 2017 and contributed to the record-breaking overnight visitors.
International visitors comprised 35% of the overnight market, with 5.8 million visitors and contributed about 54% of the total visitor expenditure because of longer stays in the destination. More than one in 10 visitors travelling to Miami do so to take
a cruise and supports the +12.5% increase in PortMiami passengers, resulting in a record breaking 6 million cruise passengers, in 2018.
46
DECEMBER 2019


CLASSIC STYLE & ENRICHING JOURNEYS Caribbean Fly/Cruise Holidays
from Scotland
14NIGHTS £1,379*pp CRUISE FROM
FLY/CRUISE £2,159*
pp
FROM
WHAT SETS US APART
Perfectly-sized, elegant ships
Spacious staterooms and suites, many with private balcony
Nearly one crew member for every two guests
Fine dining with casual to formal options
Regional cuisine, Explorations Central destination experiences and more Every Caribbean cruise calls at our private island, Half Moon Cay
Long days and overnight stays in hand- picked destinations
Beyond the Caribbean’s beautiful beaches lie little known island secrets and off the beaten track surprises. Here too Mexico, Costa Rica, the Panama Canal and scintillating South America. With Holland America Line, visitors may discover these tropical gems in greater depth through inside stories, regional cuisine and authentic destination experiences. At our award- winning private island of Half Moon Cay, a protected sanctuary for wildlife, they might quietly count egrets, swim with curious stingrays, play in the water on Sunfish sailboats or relax on a crescent of perfect white sand beach.
14-NIGHT
EASTERN & WESTERN CARIBBEAN
11-NIGHT
SOUTHERN CARIBBEAN WAYFARER
Cruise from
£1,379*
per person
Nieuw Statendam:
23 Feb; 5 Apr* 2020
DEPART:
FT LAUDERDALE
*Lead fare based on 5/4/20
ARRIVE:
FT LAUDERDALE
Koningsdam:
22 Jan, 12 Feb, 4 Mar* 2020
DEPART: ARRIVE:
FT LAUDERDALE FT LAUDERDALE
*Lead fare based on 4/3/20 sailing
Cruise fares from: Inside Stateroom £1,349
Ocean View Stateroom £1,619 Verandah Stateroom £2,049
Vista Suite £2,659 Signature Suite £4,509 Neptune Suite £4,969
• A full day at our private island
Eurodam:
4, 15, 26^ Jan; 5 Feb 2020
Zuiderdam:
15, 26 Feb; 8^, 18, 29^ Mar*; 8 Apr 2020
DEPART: ARRIVE:
FT LAUDERDALE FT LAUDERDALE
^Denote 10-night sailings which do not call into Cartagena. *Lead fare based on 8/3/20 10-night sailing
Cruise fares from: Inside Stateroom £1,399
Ocean View Stateroom £1,549 Verandah Stateroom £1,859 Signature Suite £2,399 Neptune Suite £3,249
• A full day at our private island
VISITS: Grand Turk; San Juan (Puerto Rico); St Thomas; Half Moon Cay (Bahamas);
Ft Lauderdale; Half Moon Cay (Bahamas); Ocho Rios (Jamaica); Grand Cayman, Cozumel (Mexico)
Cruise fares from: Inside Stateroom £1,379
Ocean View Stateroom £1,769 Verandah Stateroom £1,999
Vista Suite £2,839 Signature Suite £5,059 Neptune Suite £5,459
• Two full days at our private island
SALES CONTACTS
Fly/cruise from
£2,589
pp from Glasgow
Cruise from
£1,349*
per person
VISITS: St Maarten, daylight passing Mt Pelee, Martinique, Barbados St Lucia, scenic cruising Soufriere Bay; St Kitts, St Thomas, Half
Moon Cay
Fly/cruise from
£2,159
pp from Edinburgh
10-11-NIGHT CARIBBEAN & PANAMA CANAL SUNFARER
Cruise from
£1,399*
per person
Fly/cruise from
£2,249
pp from Edinburgh
VISITS: Half Moon Cay, Aruba, Curacao, Cartagena^ (Columbia), Scenic cruising Panama Canal & Gatun Lake, Colon (Panama), Puerto Limon (Costa Rica)
Reservations Online POLAR Online: via www.hollandamerica.co.uk and click on partnerships Reservations by Phone Call 0344 338 8600
Contact the Sales Team: 0344 338 8604 or email [email protected]
Terms & Conditions *ALL PRICES STATED ARE CRUISE ONLY OR FLY/CRUISE FROM SCOTTISH AIRPORTS IN GBP Sterling. Featured fares are per person based on double occupancy and include Taxes, Fees & Port Expenses. Subject to availability. Other restrictions may apply. It is the responsibility of guests to ensure they have a full passport valid at least 6 months beyond the date travel is to commence. Ships’ Registry: The Netherlands.


FLORIDA
POLK COUNTY - FLORIDA’S ‘SWEETEST SPOT’
Located between Orlando and Tampa, Central Florida’s Polk County offers more than a place to lay your head between theme park destinations. From unspoiled lakes and wetlands to historic landmarks, citrus groves to theme parks, there is a reason many Floridians say that Polk County is Florida’s sweetest spot.
If you are looking for outside adventures, Polk County offers ample opportunities. Home to more than 550 freshwater lakes and 25,000 acres of unspoiled recreational parks, there are ample ways to enjoy the great outdoors, including water skiing, air boating, kayaking and world-class fishing. For
a more placid stroll, Central Florida is home to two historic area attractions
- Bok Tower Gardens and Frank Lloyd Wright’s “Child of the Sun” collection of architecture on the Florida Southern College campus.
“Child of the Sun” is the largest single- site collection – with 13 completed structures – of the famed architects work, as well as his resume’s most southern example. Guided tours start at the Usonian House, where pieces
of glass embedded in the walls act as prisms, casting rays of light throughout the home and end on the far side of campus. But don’t miss the Tourism and Education Centre complete with unique one-of-a-kind gifts.
In Lake Wales, visit Bok Tower, the world-famous 205-foot art deco and neo-Gothic “Singing” carillon tower surrounded by gardens that are kept with the utmost care.
Featuring the highest elevation in peninsular Florida, guests can stroll in the shadow of the tower while listening to music from the carillon – a series of bells played by a keyboard – and see scenic vistas of Florida unlike anywhere else in the state. Bok Tower has literally reigned as a popular tourist attraction since the late 1920s.
Polk County is also home to Florida’s newest attraction, the LEGOLAND Florida Resort. Built around historic Cypress Gardens, it offers roller coasters, a water park, 3-D movies and plenty of opportunities to build. New is the LEGOLAND Pirate Island Hotel, the first LEGO Pirate themed hotel in North America, just steps from the entrance to the theme park built for kids.
The resort’s third accommodation, the LEGOLAND Pirate Island Hotel features 150 fun-filled rooms, a heated pool with pool deck complete with floating LEGO soft bricks, hundreds of LEGO models, in-room LEGO treasure hunts and exclusive character experiences.
The new hotel rooms are fully themed with interactive LEGO Pirate models throughout and include an array of humorous decor designed specifically for a kid-centric family vacation.
The five-story hotel also houses
the pirate-themed Shipwreck Restaurant, Smuggler’s Bar for adult swashbucklers, an entertainment area with kid-friendly nightly programming and LEGO play areas. Guests can also enjoy a complimentary family-style breakfast.
So, no matter what you have in mind as you visit The Sunshine State, a visit to Florida would be incomplete without a visit to Central Florida’s Polk County, the state’s sweetest spot.
With so much to see and do, go to www.VisitCentralFlorida.org or call 1-800-828-7655 to plan your client’s vacation in Central Florida’s Polk County.
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FLORIDA
Enjoy the theme parks
By Gary Reavely
On a recent Florida family holiday in Orlando, we chose to visit the two Universal theme parks - Universal StudiosTM and Universal’s Island of AdventureTM - as we had not been for many years. This turned out to be a great call as they were both so much fun that we went back a few times during our stay and thoroughly enjoyed it every time.
Although it was in August - one of the busiest times of the year - the crowds were well managed and wait times were not too long. There were the traditional well known rides that I remembered as well as lots of new attractions, making it suitable for all ages.
Universal Studios features blockbuster entertainment and Islands of Adventure is all about incredible heroes. I have to confess to never having read a Harry Potter book or seen one of the films, so I was
not sure what to expect from the Boy Wizard’s’ contribution’ to both parks. All I can say is wow! Using the latest technology and incredible imagineering, they have created an experience that is absolutely second to none. You have to go to see it for yourself just what a fantastic job they have done in both Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley.
You can access both of the parks via The Universal City Walk, which features great restaurants, a cinema, shops and karaoke bar. At night time, there is a vibrant party atmosphere, so be sure not to miss this too.
If you have clients going to Orlando, make a point of advising them to visit the two Universal parks, plus the superb Volcano BayTM water theme park - they will not be disappointed.
New RCI ship to homeport in Fort Lauderdale
Odyssey of the Seas – Royal Caribbean’s first Quantum Ultra Class ship to arrive in North
America - will set sail from South Florida in autumn 2020. Arriving into her seasonal homeport of Fort Lauderdale in November 2020, Odyssey will offer 8- and 6-night Caribbean cruises and will then continue her inaugural year in Europe for summer 2021.
The ship will offer “Only on Royal” features, including the RipCord by iFLY sky-diving adventure; North Star, a glass observation capsule that takes guests more than 300 feet above the ocean,; state-of-the- art Two70 entertainment venue and SeaPlex, one
of the largest indoor active spaces at sea, featuring a trapeze school, full-size basketball court, roller- skating rink and bumper cars.
SNOW FREE ZONE
Expansion for Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
The Rocket Garden at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is getting a new addition: the United Launch Alliance’s Delta II rocket.
Following the launch of the final Delta II rocket in September 2018, it was announced that the last remaining backup rocket will make the Visitor Complex its home.
In addition, after nearly seven years, NASA’s Commercial Crew Programme is producing the next generation of American spacecraft that will launch astronauts to the International Space Station (ISS) from Kennedy Space Center.
© 2019 DNC Parks & Resorts
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