Travel Matters Issue 31 October 2019

ISSUE 31 OCTOBER 2019
BREAKING NEW GROUND FOR THE TRAVEL TRADE IN SCOTLAND, NORTHERN IRELAND, NORTH OF ENGLAND & IOM
When quality matters to your customers, think Kuoni


Why Kuoni?
When quality matters to your customers,
think Kuoni. We are often voted the best luxury travel company in the UK and have won over 200 awards for our holidays and service. We are a trusted and respected brand – and have been for more than 50 years.
We offer over 90 destinations around the world and hotels exclusive to Kuoni guests in the UK.
We also create our own escorted small group tours packed full of experiences, offering guaranteed departure dates and quality accommodation
for your customers.
Flick to the inside back page where
you’ll find a handful of extra special offers across the Indian Ocean, South-East Asia and beyond – with big savings and no compromise on quality.


ISSUE 31 OCTOBER 2019
BREAKING NEW GROUND FOR THE TRAVEL TRADE IN SCOTLAND, NORTHERN IRELAND, NORTH OF ENGLAND & IOM
fAr eAST/ASIA HIGHLIGHTS
fOCUS ON eSCOrTeD TOUrS
PLUS
WIN! A holiday to Chicago with United Airlines & Choose Chicago
On cloud nIne with Air Transat


A new dawn....
text
Welcome to a double dose of Travel Matters this month! We hope you enjoy reading our Air Travel Matters supplement which is bursting full to the brim with lots of air travel news! In this issue, we focus on the sheer variety of escorted tours on offer as well as the exciting developments happening in the Far East and Asia.
The collapse of Thomas Cook has shocked the travel industry to its core, with the loss of so many jobs for our friends and colleagues. However, the purchase of all the Thomas Cook retail stores by Hays Travel is fantastic news! Just goes to show that even in the darkest of times, there can always be light at the end of the tunnel.
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]
Andrea Pellicci
Director
07766 010272 [email protected]
Get in touch...
read last month’s issue online at...
www.travelmatters.biz Follow us...
@travelmatters.biz @ TravelMatBiz
@travelmattersbiz travelmattersbiz


WIN! A TrIP TO fLOrIDA WITH GOLD MeDAL
New charity partnerships for Travel 2 and Gold Medal
Gold Medal and Travel 2 have opted to raise cash for clean water charity Just a Drop and the Family Holiday Association (FHA) with a series of fun and interactive events, as part of the company’s corporate social responsibility programme. So far, £2,200 has been collected towards a £5,000 target for the FHA which will be put towards sending 100 families on holiday within the UK.
Staff are also collecting for a clean water project in Kenya in conjunction with Just a Drop and hope to raise upwards of £9,000 by 22 March 2020 – World Water Day – to provide a water tank at the Kathyaka Secondary School in Makueni County, along with washing stations, improved sanitation
and hygiene education
for students.
As an added incentive, two members of staff
– one from Gold Medal and one from Travel 2 – will head out to Kenya to check on how the dnata money is being spent by Just a Drop.
Gold Medal, in collaboration with VISIT FLorIDA, is giving agents the chance to win one of three holidays to the sunshine state. The winning agents will be able to explore the “Flipside of Florida”, showcasing its glorious beaches, culture and national parks. A pair of return economy flights will be included within the prize as well as seven nights’ accommodation.
To be in with a chance of winning, agents will need to make a Florida package booking with Gold Medal between now and 30th November 2019 and send the booking reference to [email protected] to be entered into the prize draw. The three lucky winners will be announced in December. Full details of the incentive can be found at: www.goldmedal.com
Hot tub breaks from £295*
ESCAPE TO A
WINTER WONDERLAND
BE SOCIAL facebook.com/HollieHoseasons @HollieHoseasons
Last chance to book visit www.hoseasons.co.uk/agents or call 0345 498 6153
*The price listed above is from the Hoseasons Lodges and Holiday Parks 2019 programme. The price advertised is per accommodation and based on accommodation only. Prices based on 3
night breaks between 01/11/19 – 30/11/19. Offer applies to selected Park and Lodge locations and accommodation types – accommodation only. Prices may differ depending on departure
date. Prices based on maximum occupancy. Hoseasons booking conditions apply – see brochure or website. Image may not be representative of specific offer. ABTA No. Y0662
OCTOBER 2019
5


Inside Guide...
5 13
Hot tub breaks with Hoseasons
Crystal Cruises - celebrate the festive season
17
Air Astana - the Travellers’ Choice
23
Take the short cut to Asia - fly Finnair
33
WIN!
An Apple Watch - North America Travel Service
46-47
riviera Travel’s tours tick all the boxes
59
Savings with Kuoni
16-29
Far East/Asia Highlights
21
Exotic lands with Holland America Line
28
Q&A - Brian young, G Adventures
31
CMV - No-fly cruises
36-47
Focus on Escorted Tours
37
WIN! A place on an Abercrombie & Kent fam trip
43
Authentic experiences with Saga
15
WIN!
A holiday to Chicago with United and Choose Chicago
25
Links Travel & Tours’ Cherry Blossom tour
40-41
Earn T2 rewards on Incredible Journeys
51
Experts in Tailor-Made - Africa & Beyond
OCTOBER 2019


NeWS
Flexible Autos launch
new White Label
Flexible Autos have launched a brand-new white label for its trade partners. The new white label features enhanced product offerings, faster speeds, a new look and feel, multi-currency and language options, plus much more.
Flexible Autos are the leading global trade-only car rental broker who work closely with the travel trade across
the world. Being 100% trade only means we understand and support the agent’s needs at every level and do not compete against trade customers.
Our focus in the last 12 months has been to provide agents with a truly transparent and seamless car hire experience to make their car hire booking journey as easy as possible. We have done this via our trade website and we are now delighted to bring this experience via a new look white label.
Sue Dixon – Group Managing Director comments: “We have always looked at ways in which we can help agents sell more car hire and earn more profit on every customer that walks through their door. With the new white labels this allows our agent partners to offer car hire to their customers via their own websites and still earn an attractive commission.”
All products are available via the new white label including the Flexible Autos zero / reduced excess products / young driver products, special offers plus the option to view bookings and make amendments with no amendment fees or cancellation charges outside of 48 hours from collection.
To find out more or to apply for a white label with Flexible Autos, please contact [email protected] or call 0161 667 5100.
Loganair launches flights to Newquay, Cornwall
Loganair has announced new services to Cornwall Airport Newquay. The new routes, departing from Aberdeen, Glasgow and Newcastle, will commence in Spring 2020.
Newcastle to Newquay will launch on 1st April 2020, with a year- round service of four flights per week on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday. Saturday services will operate from May to September and there will be additional flights on Tuesday and Thursday during the school holidays in July and August, taking the service up to daily.
A year round service will also operate from Aberdeen to Newquay and southbound flights on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays will stop at Newcastle and northbound flights on Fridays and Sundays will also stop at Newcastle.
There will be non-stop services on Saturdays as well as extra flights in each direction on Tuesdays and Thursdays between 6th July and 4th September. The Glasgow departure will be a summer service commencing 22nd May, with weekly Friday and Saturday flights from May to September and additional services on Tuesdays from late June to late August.
Loganair has also finalised an interline agreement with United Airlines to allow through check-in. Loganair passengers will be able to transfer seamlessly with United Airlines from Glasgow and Edinburgh to New York/Newark and from Edinburgh to Chicago O’Hare and Washington Dulles.
OCTOBER 2019
7


NeWS
Aer Lingus gets The X Factor
Aer Lingus has been revealed as an Airline Partner of The X Factor: Celebrity, the revamped celebrity version of the talent show.
The Irish carrier flew three of the show’s celebrity acts from London to Hollywood where they performed live to try to secure a place
in the live shows, commencing 26th October. Among the famous faces were Love Island Supergroup, Wes Nelson, Eyal Booker, Samira Mighty and Zara McDermott; top rugby stars Thom Evans, Ben Foden and Levi Davis as Try Star, as well as The Only Way is Essex favourite Megan McKenna.
Dara McMahon, Aer Lingus Director of Marketing and Digital Experience, said: “Aer Lingus is proud to partner with The X Factor for a third year running in 2019. Aer Lingus now flies to 14 North American destinations and our focus is very much on connecting UK travellers to North America via our hub at Dublin Airport where they can benefit from US preclearance.
“Aer Lingus has also enjoyed a refresh, with an updated brand identity and aircraft livery to reaffirm our relevance to today’s ever- changing traveller.”
New routes for Edinburgh Airport
EasyJet is to launch a year-round service to the Italian city of Verona. Commencing 7th December, flights will operate on Tuesdays and Saturdays on an A320 aircraft. easyJet will also launch flights to Birmingham, from March 2020.
Other new routes from Edinburgh Airport include 4 Transavia flights per week to Rotterdam from Summer 2020 as well as Wizz Air flights to Budapest, Bucharest and Warsaw, all starting this December.
George Best Belfast City Airport has been named the ‘Airport of the Year’ at the Aviation Industry Awards.
Three finalists progressed to the final round - George Best Belfast City Airport, Greater Toronto Airports Authority and Heathrow Airport – with Belfast City Airport recognised as the winner, as voted for by the public.
The Aviation Industry Awards formed part of Air Convention 2019, which was held in Vilnius, Lithuania.
More seats from TUI
Following the collapse of Thomas Cook, TUI has announced an additional two million seats to Turkey, Greece, Balearics, Canaries, Egypt, Mexico and Florida.
The operator will offer more 7, 10, 11 and 14 night holiday durations with more regional departures, including Glasgow, Newcastle and Manchester. The expansion will create jobs for over 100 pilots and over 200 cabin crew with TUI Airways.
OCTOBER 2019




The Voice of Travel in Scotland
DEAr Mr THoMAS CooK
I hope you don’t mind me writing to you, but there is something I wanted to say and unfortunately your passing has not allowed me to say this to you personally. Not everyone can say the company they founded hung around for 178 years, but you can be very proud of the incredible dreams you gave many millions of holidaymakers across that long life.
Do you remember when you first thought of the idea, way back in 1841, to take
a group of temperance campaigners from Leicester to a teetotal rally in Loughborough eleven miles away, on a one-day trip?
Little did you know what you started as you escorted customers who paid one shilling each for the return train journey. Your first excursion.
In 1851 you arranged for an incredible 150,000 people to travel by train to the Great Exhibition in London. It’s somewhat sad and ironic, because that’s exactly
the number of passengers that had to be repatriated from your company’s demise this summer. Your posters for the event at the time advertised “without any advance payment”.
Not for you, the joys and despair of ATOL cover in those days. Weren’t you lucky!
Many excursions followed before you decided to organise your first trip abroad, to Calais. Your realisation that people
had an urge to see new places, to travel
to foreign lands must have been both exciting and challenging at the same time.
By 1860 you were arranging many trips to Italy, Egypt and Switzerland. Five years later, with your son John Mason Cook you opened an office in Fleet Street and correctly guessing the trends for the future, you opened a temperance hotel above it. Good job neither of you were around when his initials were used when JMC Holidays was formed, 100 years later. A big branding mistake.
I know you had a difficult business relationship with your son and the death of your only daughter Annie at the age of 34 must have been devastating, but you must have been overjoyed when, aged 63, you were able to achieve a life-long ambition to travel the world over eight months. You retired in 1878 and sadly passed away 14 years later at the age of 83 and your son, John Mason Cook followed you shortly after, when he died in 1899.
By now your name presided over 84 offices and 3,000 staff, a third of whom were based in Egypt, selling over 3 million tickets.
Thirty-two years after your death in 1924, Thomas Cook became a limited company and had re-worked your idea from 50 years earlier of “circular notes” or as we now know them – traveller cheques. Your grandsons Frank, Thomas and Ernest had expanded the business, but sold to the owners of the Orient Express in 1928.
Your vision survived two World Wars, six monarchs, the Wall Street crash, the rise and fall of the Soviet Union and of course, your eventual greatest asset - the invention of flight. Ultimately it led to
the Thomas Cook name owning many brands over the years. From Sunworld, to My Travel, Flying Colours, JMC Holidays, Caledonian Airways... all synonymous with the highs and lows of the travel industry whilst retail shops from Going Places, AT Mays and Coop Travel were integrated into the organisation.
And now finally this year, you would be devastated at the loss of the company named after you, along with the thousands of staff and holidaymakers affected. The failings of subsequent management over the years hasn’t changed the outpouring of shock, sadness and immense support from across the travel trade.
Excursions, as you called them, are very different nowadays from your original thoughts of promoting temperance, because life was challenging for many in those days. Part of you must be looking down, thinking that because the “demon drink” is currently so much a part of today’s package holidays, then serves
us right ! But don’t be sad Mr Thomas Cook, because your vision brought a wonderful career for myself and my many thousands of colleagues and also joy to millions of holidaymakers over those 178 years.
Your name may be resurrected at some point in the future by someone brave enough to recognise its long-term value, but in the meantime - thank you for the memories.
With affection
Ken McLeod, SPAA President
STAr eXHIBITION
ANNUAL TRAVEL
JOIN US fOr ONe Of THe BeST TrAVeL eVeNTS Of THe YeAr!
Awards
S
THUrSDAY 7th NOVeMBer
Doubletree by Hilton, Glasgow Tickets £125+VAT
T
SDAY 19th NOVeMBer
T
U
U
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For more details, contact [email protected]
D
bletree by Hilton, Glasgow Food & drink plus prizes!
D
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OCTOBER 2019


ASSoCIATE MEMBEr NEWS ByTES
Meet new Associate - H10 Hotels
H10 Hotels was established in the early 1980s and now ranks as the 7th largest hotel chain in Spain. With over 65 hotels in 20 destinations around the globe, we offer a variety of 4 & 5 star accommodation in some of the most desired locations. Whether you have customers looking for a cultural city break to Barcelona, or a romantic weekend in London or Rome, or simply relaxing in the sun on one of the Canary Islands, we have a hotel to suit your needs.
We pride ourselves in delivering exceptional service, mouth watering gastronomy and creating memorable experiences, leaving only customers wanting more when they return home. H10 Hotels is new to the SPAA and we look forward to meeting and working with many of you in the near future.
For more information, contact:
Scott Harman - Sales Manager UK & Ireland Email: [email protected]
Tel: 07867 451544
Facebook: H10 Hotels UK & Ireland Agents
Karen Cameron joins Princess Cruises
I am delighted to be working for Princess Cruises covering Scotland and Northern Ireland as Territory Business Manager. As a leading premium cruise line, we like to do things differently. Our world-leading itineraries encompass over 380 destinations, across all seven continents and we’re the number one cruise line in Alaska.
Princess Cruises is the fastest growing premium cruise line in the world, delivering profitable growth for our partners in the UK and Ireland. Our commission structure is designed to reward you for growing your Princess Cruises business. Make a booking with Princess Cruises and receive cash, cruises, gifts and experience days with generous incentives.
We promise to provide you with brand knowledge - on ship visits, 96% of attendees believe we offer the cruise industry’s best immersive ship visit. The award-winning Princess Academy allows you to learn at your own pace plus there’s a chance to experience a Princess cruise.
For more information, contact:
Karen Cameron
Territory Business Manager
- Scotland & Northern Ireland
Tel: 07973 823253
Email: [email protected] Facebook: Karen - Princess Cruises
Agent Website: www.onesourcecruises.com
NCL - looking to the future
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is at the forefront of innovation in the cruise industry, breaking boundaries and changing the concept of holidays at sea.
Established over 50 years ago, NCL is always looking to the future, ensuring its fleet of 17 ships – plus five new-builds on order – continuously elevates the guest experience. Since 2000, guests have been enjoying the freedom, flexibility and fun of Freestyle Cruising with NCL, which breaks the mould of holidays at sea, letting guests savour and create their own bespoke holiday. Today they can feel free as they cruise the world in Europe, the Caribbean, Alaska, Hawaii, Asia and beyond.
In November 2019 , NCL will launch her most exciting ship
to date, Norwegian Encore and she’s packed with incredible experiences. Like the smash Broadway musical Kinky Boots with lyrics by Cyndi Lauper. The adrenaline-boosting, largest race track at sea, extending four metres over the side of the ship. The blast of the open-air laser tag course, open day and night. EXCITE. DELIGHT. ENCORE.
For more information, contact:
David Sanderson
- Business Development Manager Scotland and Ireland
Email: [email protected]
Tel: 07793 903459
Join the Barbados Elite Club
The Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. invites you to join
the Barbados Elite Club which has been set up for travel professionals like you. If you’re passionate about Barbados and want to send your clients to the most exciting destination while earning valuable rewards yourself, Barbados Elite Club is for you.
Through our platform, you’ll discover that there is so much more to Barbados than just year-round sun and white sand beaches. From the low-down on local festivals and insights into the fascinating culture, the Barbados Elite Club will provide you with all the information you need to make your clients’ holiday dreams a reality!
For more information, contact:
Shane Thomas
BTMI Consultant – Scotland
Tel: 07476 991091
Email: [email protected]
OctOber 2019
11


NeWS
2019
2019
BUSINESSMATTERS
November
4-6 WORLD TRAVEL MARKET, EXCEL, LONDON
05 CELEBRITY CRUISES
APEX ROADSHOW, BELFAST
05 CRYSTAL CRUISES AGENT TRAINING, MALMAISON, EDINBURGH
06 CRYSTAL CRUISES
AGENT TRAINING,
HOTEL DU VIN, GLASGOW
07 SPAA ANNUAL TRAVEL AWARDS, DOUBLETREE HILTON, GLASGOW
19 STAR EXHIBITION, DOUBLETREE HILTON, GLASGOW
21 TURKISH AIRLINES FESTIVE SHINDIG, BALMORAL HOTEL, EDINBURGH
New appointment for Silversea Cruises
Silversea Cruises has
appointed Danny Giles as
Expedition Manager for the UK & Ireland.
Danny will assist the sales team with their expedition sales and also aim to drive new business through the UK and Irish trade.
Calling all agents...
TURKISH AIRLINES ARE TO HOLD THEIR
FESTIVE SHINDIG
IN CONJUNCTION WITH EDINBURGH AIRPORT ON
THURSDAY
21ST NOVEMBER 2019
ATTHE BALMORAL HOTEL, EDINBURGH
THIS ONE IS ALL ABOUT FUN!
2020
MSC Cruises adds to sales team
MSC Cruises has announced that Claire Smith will move from RSM Scotland and
NI to the newly created
role of National Training Manager & New Business Partnership Manager.
Claire will start her new role on
30th October and will be responsible for all travel agent training programmes as well as focusing on developing new partnerships for the cruise line in various sectors.
In addition, Wendy Cameron has been appointed to the role of RSM for Scotland & Northern Ireland.
Wendy had most recently
worked with Superbreak and
joins MSC Cruises with over 25 years’
experience in account management looking after both Scotland & Northern Ireland. Steve Williams, Director of Sales for MSC Cruises UK & Ireland commented: ‘The further expansion of our sales team is testament to the continued success of MSC Cruises in the UK & Irish markets. In creating this new role I hope to further support our existing travel agents as well as expand our distribution further by equipping agents with the skills and knowledge they need to sell cruise. Whilst 2019 has been our most successful year to date, there is always more to do.”
December
03 GRAFTAS, CROWNE PLAZA, NEWCASTLE
05 SPAA AGM & CHRISTMAS NETWORKING LUNCH, GLASGOW
05 ABTA REGIONAL MEETING,
NORTH EAST
February
27 SPAA 90TH ANNUAL DINNER, GLASGOW
May
19 TOURISM THAILAND ROADSHOW, BELFAST
15-18 ADVANTAGE CONFERENCE, MADEIRA
March
02 GEORDIE BALL,
GRAND HOTEL, GOSFORTH PARK, NEWCASTLE
October
5-7 TOURISM THAILAND ROADSHOW, BELFAST
15-18 ABTA TRAVEL CONVENTION,
MARRAKESH
I NeeD A SIX MONTH HOLIDAY TWICe A YeAr
OCTOBER 2019


OUR MAN IN THE NORTH REPORTS ON...
CHRISTMAS! It’s not too late for your clients to take the pressure off this festive season and let the World’s Best look after them. We have limited space left available onboard the stunning Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity, so don’t delay. Our festive cruises are detailed below or for our full calendar of sailings, 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]
HAUTE CARIBBEAN HOLIDAYS
HAWAIIAN SERENADE
SAN DIEGO ROUND-TRIP
Voyage OCS191221-15
Crystal Symphony | 21 December 2019 | 15 nights Highlights:
San Diego, Honolulu/Oahu, Nawiliwili/Kauai, Lahaina/Maui, Kailua-Kona/Hawaii, Ensenada and San Diego.
Fares from £4,943 per person cruise only
(E2 Grade Stateroom)
MIAMI ROUND-TRIP
Voyage OCY191222-15
Crytal Serenity | 22 December 2019 | 15 nights Highlights:
Miami, Grand Turk, Philipsburg (overnight), St John’s, Castries, Bridgetown (overnight), Road Town, Key West and Miami.
Fares from £5,967 per person cruise only
(C3 Grade Stateroom)
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION OR TO BOOK PLEASE CALL: O20 7399 7601 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 0207 399 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.uk for complete terms and conditions of all offers. © 2019 Crystal Cruises, Inc., Ships' registry: The Bahamas.
Jon Schofield


My kinda town... Chicago is...
fAM TrIP reVIeW
by TOM SNeDDON
Account Manager, Scotland/North UK United Airlines
This September, I had the pleasure
of co-hosting a Familiarization trip
to Chicago with Barrhead Travel and Choose Chicago, the official marketing organisation for the city.
We flew on United’s summer seasonal direct daily service from Edinburgh to Chicago O’Hare International Airport. The first thing you notice about Chicago on the drive from the airport is the massive skyline - Chicago is the third largest city in the USA and it’s far bigger than you might imagine.
We stayed at the Cambria Chicago Magnificent Mile, a trendy new select service hotel, located just off of the Magnificent Mile, (the upscale shopping district of Michigan Avenue), with spacious rooms and great for families or couples looking for a city break.
We managed to fit in a number of tours, including the classic Big Bus hop-on-hop off experience as well as a cycle tour on Bobby’s Bike Hikes. We rode through Chicago’s north side neighbourhoods, including Lincoln Park, with a stop at Lincoln Park Zoo, where admission is free, the beautiful historic Gold Coast district and Old Town.
The informative 90-minute Shoreline Sightseeing Architecture River tour outlining the breathtaking skyline was a welcome break after all that cycling!
The fam highlighted the huge choice of museums, including the Art Institute
of Chicago; the Museum of Science
and Industry with a full sized United Airlines jet on display; Shedd Aquarium; UNESCO World Heritage Site, Frank Lloyd Wright Robie House and the Adler Planetarium.
The city is ideal for foodies too. Chicago Food Planet took us on a food tour where we dined around
the trendy West Loop
neighbourhood and sampled wine, beer and cocktails - not to mention the best meatballs of my life! Be sure to tell clients
to have a drink on the 94th floor of the 360 Chicago Observation Deck, home
to the TILT attraction that leans you over the side of the building - at over 1,000 feet high, the views over the city and of Lake Michigan are simply stunning!
On the second night, we saw an amazing show hosted by the Blue Man Group and we also went to the legendary Second City Comedy Club, where Tina Fey, Bill Murray and John Belushi all started out. The grand finale was having dinner on the beach at Shore Club, then heading to Kingston Mines for some legendary live Blues music!
In summary, Chicago will absolutely surprise your clients. It offers an exciting city break with loads to see and do and is also an ideal stopover destination!
OCTOBER 2019


Chicago Go Go!
Win a 6-night holiday to Chicago, courtesy of United Airlines and Choose Chicago
United operates nonstop seasonal flights from Dublin and Edinburgh and 3 daily flights from London Heathrow. Cosy up in the plush comfort of United Polaris® business class or enjoy extra legroom in United Economy Plus®.
From shopaholics to sports fans, Chicago has something for everyone. The Magnificent Mile is known for its world-famous retail brands and just about any sport can be enjoyed in stadiums across the city.
For your chance to win this fabulous trip, simply:
1. Register and complete the Chicago training course on usadiscoveryprogram.co.uk between
1-30 November 2019.
2. Make and ticket a booking to/via Chicago between 1 – 30 November 2019 and send the PNRs
to [email protected] by 5pm on 2nd December 2019.
Terms & Conditions: Open to agent employees based in the UK and Ireland, who are eighteen (18) years or older. By entering this competition, you represent that your
employer is fully informed and approves of your participation in this promotion.
Entry: Each PNR is eligible for one entry. Eligible entrants must ticket at least one United Airlines operated nonstop scheduled transatlantic flight from the UK or Ireland to/ via Chicago with the transatlantic sector on a non-stop scheduled service operated by United between 01 November 2019 and 30 November 2019 (the “entry period”) for travel from 01 December 2019 through 31 October 2020 as well as complete the Chicago Discovery Badge training on usadiscoveryprogram.co.uk for a chance to win. You must submit your airline PNR along with an email confirming your training course completion to [email protected] with ‘Choose Chicago’ in the subject line between 01 November 2019 – 02 December 2019.
Prize: Two winners (one agent from Republic of Ireland and one agent from UK) will each receive two return United Economy® flights from the UK to Chicago, excluding taxes, specifications to be determined at United’s sole discretion without guarantees; (6)nights hotel stay in Chicago, (2) city passes, (2) 24 hour hop on hop off pass, (2) tickets to Blue Man Group in Chicago, (2) tickets to Second City comedy club, (1) $50 shopping card at Macerich Shopping center, and (2) tickets to the architecture river cruise.
Full terms and conditions available at usadiscoveryprogram.co.uk


fAr eAST/ASIA
Just you Travel Ambassador,
CLAIre SWeeNeY
a
india
What attracted you to becoming an ambassador for Just you and what does it entail?
I have a huge passion for travel as my work has taken me all over the world. With Just You, I can travel solo while having the company of a group, but also explore on my own and then share the fantastic experiences with the group later in the day.
As a travel ambassador, I get to go on holiday with Just You and then talk about the fantastic experiences that I have had on my adventures.
Did you have any preconceptions about travelling in India?
Not really - I was going there with an open mind and so excited to finally be fulfilling the dream of spending time in India.
Did India live up to your expectations and who would you recommend it to as a destination?
It more than lived up to my expectations - it is the most magical and wonderful country! I experienced so many unforget- table moments, including seeing a tiger, but for me, the highlight was our stay
in Varanasi. On our first night there we watched more than 2,000 people praying in unison and then got up at 4.30am to sail along the Ganges at sunrise. The river bank was full of worshippers and words just can’t describe how emotional it was.
India has something for everyone - the age range on our Just You tour was from 30 – 80 years old and everyone got something out of it, be it the beauty, the people, the sights or the history.
What did you think of the Just you experience?
It was very relaxing and a hassle-free way of travelling. There are so many amazing experiences organised for you and you don’t need to do anything other than sit back and enjoy them - it’s just perfect! After checking in for our flight, we had
a wonderful welcome from our Tour Manager in the VIP lounge at Heathrow. Quite a few of the group were nervous about travelling by themselves, but it didn’t take long for everyone to start chatting. You could sense the excitement we all felt about heading off on our Indian adventure.
r
The Tour Manager was fantastic and
we all knew exactly where we were supposed to be and didn’t have to worry about a thing. The hotels we stayed
in were of the highest quality and the service was just wonderful. The Jungle Vila hotel on the edge of the tiger reserve in Ranthambore was one of the most beautiful places I have ever stayed in. Of course, it was great to always have my own room to relax in at the end of the day.
Do you have any tips or suggestions for travellers going to India?
Just go there with an open mind and soak up the atmosphere - it will change the way you look at life!
O
u
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p
w
a
s
a
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were divorced or widowed and others, like me, were single and just looking for an adventure! I loved getting to know everyone, hearing about why they wanted to travel to India and where they had been in the past. It was obvious we all had one thing in common - a love of travel and a passion for discovering new cultures.
O
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OCTOBER 2019
goes on tour to...




fAr eAST/ASIA
EXPLorE JAPAN WITH WENDy WU ToUrS
Japan is one of the most complex destinations. one where every corner of the culture requires exploring before you can say you have been to Japan. you think of Japan and up pops images of temples, geisha, sushi and neon-lights of Tokyo. Maybe your image is split between a traditional tea ceremony and a futuristic, high-tech restaurant. With such a cultural uniqueness to every city, with experiences allowing you to immerse yourself and adopt the breathtaking and fascinating traditions, Japan is one of the best places to visit. Don’t forget it’s not about seeing Japan, but more about experiencing it!
Tokyo
Starting with Tokyo, the ultimate modern mega-city. Tokyo holds the name of ‘sky- scraper central’ and ‘neon-billboard city’. However, the traditional culture is not to be overlooked. Wander through Senso-ji, the city’s oldest temple or the woodland Meiji Shrine to see beautiful old rituals performed by local worshippers.
Mt Fuji
Mt Fuji, the perfectly symmetrical cone and Japan’s most iconic sight, holds great significance to the Buddhist worshippers of the country. It is also an essential element of any trip to Japan to look upon Mt Fuji and revel in its spectacular natural surroundings.
Kyoto
Kyoto was the imperial capital for over 1,000 years. This is the ultimate place
to discover traditional Japan. You can explore temples and shrines such as Kinkaku-ji and Fushimi Inari-taisha as well as any of the city’s 17 UNESCO-listed monuments. Perhaps even take part in a traditional tea ceremony, learn the art of origami or eat kaiseki; you can even dress up as a geisha! Experiences in Kyoto are unique.
These are just a few of the surreal highlights of Japan, all and more which can be visited from a list of Wendy Wu Tours. With five new tours, the options are endless for any preference of tour.
Whether customers want a relaxed and scenic tour, a jam- packed immersive tour or anything
in between, everything is covered.
Our most extensive tour of Japan, Japan Uncovered includes all the classic sights and key cultural activities over 17 days priced from £6,490pp. Featuring
modern cities, histori
, beautiful landscapes,
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Touching the southern region of Japan for the first time is the new Japan and the Scenic South (from £5,790pp). This 13-day tour starts at the charming Fukuoka, taking you across the hidden and beautiful sights of Kumamoto and Mount Aso, ending in the cosmopolitan city of Tokyo.
Gaze at Mount Fuji and explore vibrant Sapporo on the Journey Through Japan 14-day tour (from £6,290pp). Ancient Empires of China and Japan is the first of its kind and introduces the perfect combination of China and Japan in one tour (from £6,490pp).
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ensures you get the most out of your trip
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Two new Asia destinations to keep an eye on are Taiwan and South-Korea. We have added a tour boasting the iconic sights of each of these two fascinating countries. Explore both the green and cherry-blossomed countryside of South Korea on our 13-day tour (from £4,490pp) Scenic South Korea.
Or step into the historical country of Taiwan on our 14-day Treasures of Taiwan tour (from £3,290pp).
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city of Beijing and ending at the distinct ultramodern city of Tokyo, this tour lasts 20 days following a trail between the two cultural treasures.
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to this fascinating land.
Visit wendywutours.co.uk/agents or call the team on 0808 239 2579
OCTOBER 2019




fAr eAST/ASIA
The next of Royal Caribbean’s Oasis Class ships, to be named Wonder of The Seas, will homeport and set sail from Shanghai, China in 2021.
Wonder of the Seas will combine the seven-neighbourhood concept that her sister ships feature along with thrilling experiences, imaginative dining, innovative entertainment and the latest technology.
‘New Fantasyland’ for Tokyo
Oriental Land Co. Ltd has announced that a new area, “New Fantasyland,” will open in Tokyo Disneyland® Park on 15th April, 2020 as part of a large-scale redevelopment.
New attractions will include the Enchanted Tale of Beauty and the Beast attraction and an indoor theatre Fantasyland Forest Theatre. Other additions include The Happy Ride with Baymax and in Toontown, guests will be able to meet Minnie Mouse in person at the new Disney character greeting facility, Minnie’s Style Studio.
Qatar Airways heads to osaka
Qatar Airways will launch services to Osaka, Japan starting from 6th April 2020. The second largest metropolitan area of Japan, Osaka will be the airline’s third gateway into the country, after Tokyo Narita and Tokyo Haneda from Doha’s Hamad International Airport. The operation will initially begin with a five times weekly service, increasing to a daily service from 23rd June 2020.
The Kansai Region is home to many well-known attractions like Arima Onsen - one of the most famous and oldest hot springs and Nara, the former historic capital. Visitors can also admire historical landmarks including UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Himeji Castle.
Enjoy the Vietnamese Grand Prix
Sports holiday specialist, Sport Links Travel have announced their new itinerary for the inaugural Vietnamese Grand Prix, due to take place in Hanoi on 5th April. 2020.
The 11-day itinerary includes international flights from the UK, transfers, hotels, qualification and race day tickets, as well as an overnight cruise on Halong Bay. There is time to explore Hanoi between track sessions, before relaxing on a cruise on Halong Bay and moving on to scenic Hoi An.
This tailor-made itinerary can be combined with other destinations, with add-ons and stopovers available. Prices start from £3,145 per person.
The company is also offering sports enthusiasts the chance to enjoy two sports in one trip by attending the England cricket team’s second Test in Colombo, Sri Lanka followed by either the Rugby Hong Kong Sevens or the Vietnamese Grand Prix in Hanoi.
Artist concept only. ©Disney
Links Travel & Tours have appointed Brian Langford as their new travel trade manager. Previously with Ocean World Travel, Brian will be out on the
road visiting agents, providing onsite training and attending shows and exhibitions across the UK.
OCTOBER 2019


EXPLORE EXOTIC LANDS IN DEPTH AND IN STYLE
FROM
NIGHTS £1,449pp
FLY/CRUISE £2,899 EX SCOTLAND pp
FROM
Our spacious, perfectly-sized ships accommodate far fewer guests than most cruise lines. Everywhere your clients look they’ll feel a sense of classic elegance... gleaming brass, precious art and fresh flowers, sweeping staircases... all combined with comfortable furnishings and state of the art modern amenities.
They may tread quietly through the eclectic temples of Thailand’s historic capital of Ayuhaya, motor through Bangkok’s bustling streets on a three-wheeled tuk-tuk. Cruise the iconic limestone stacks of Halong Bay in Vietnam or delve into the mysteries of China & Japan.
THE HOLLAND AMERICA LINE DIFFERENCE
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, “EXC” destination experiences and more Sumptuous Greenhouse Spa & Salon
Long days and overnight stays in gorgeous cities
• Up to US onboard spending money
• % Reduced Deposit
FOUR EXTRAS + A BONUS DEAL • Complimentary Pinnacle Grill Dinner
• Beverage Card (for Kids or extra guests)
• Verandah and Suite guests also receive a Premium Internet Package
Book select 2020/1 holidays by 31 October, 2019 and your clients will receive
-NIGHT
JAPAN EXPLORER
12 Oct* 2020; 27 Mar 2021 (Noordam)
DEPART: ARRIVE:
YOKOHAMA YOKOHAMA
*Lead fare based on 12/10/20
Cruise fares from: Inside Stateroom £1,949
Ocean View Stateroom £2,149 Verandah Stateroom £2,899 Signature Suite £3,769 Neptune Suite £6,269
• Overnight stay in Kobe
WAYS TO BOOK
23 Nov 2020 (Noordam)
DEPART: ARRIVE:
SINGAPORE HONG KONG
Cruise fares from: Inside Stateroom £1,449
Ocean View Stateroom £1,649 Verandah Stateroom £2,199 Signature Suite £3,069 Neptune Suite £4,669
• Overnight stays in Laem Chabang & Da Nang
10 Apr 2021 (Noordam)
DEPART: ARRIVE:
YOKOHAMA YOKOHAMA
Ocean View Stateroom £2,289 Verandah Stateroom £3119 Signature Suite £4,079 Neptune Suite £6,119
-NIGHT
FAR EAST DISCOVERY
-NIGHT JAPAN & RUSSIA
Cruise only from
£1,949
per person
VISITS: Kobe (Osaka, overnight stay), Naha, Ishigaki, Hualien (Taiwan), Keelung (Taipei), Jeju (Cheju City, South Korea); Fukuoka (Hakata, Japan); Nagasaki.
Fly/cruise from Glasgow from
£3,419
per person
Cruise only from
£1,449
per person
VISITS: Nathon (Ko Samui, Thailand); Laem Chabang (Bangkok, overnight); Sihanoukville (Cambodia); Nha Trang (Vietnam); Da Nang (Hue, overnight); Phu My.
Fly/cruise from Edinburgh from
£2,899
per person
Cruise only from
£2,129
per person
VISITS: Shimizu (Japan), Osaka, Kochi, scenic cruising Kanmon Strait; Fukuoka (Hakata), Kanazawa, Vladivostok (Russia), Otaru (Japan), Aomori, Hakodate.
Cruise fares from: Inside Stateroom £2,129
Fly/cruise from Edinburgh from
£3,599
per person
Reservations POLAR Online: via www.hollandamerica.co.uk and click on partnerships Reservations by Phone:
Contact the Sales Team: or email [email protected]
TERMS & CONDITIONS *All prices are per person based on double occupancy in GBP sterling cruise only or fly/cruise from Glasgow or Edinburgh airport (as shown). Offers are based on Promo(s) NZ/DZ. Onboard spending money (OBC) is for guests 1 and 2 sharing a stateroom in the following amounts for cruises 10+ days: interior, ocean-view and verandah staterooms receive US$600 per stateroom, and suites receive US$800 per stateroom. OBC is in U.S. dollars and is non-refundable, non-transferable, not for cash value, expires at the end of that cruise, and may not be used in the casino. OBC cannot be used to purchase or reserve shore excursions or onboard amenities in advance of the cruise. Reduced Deposit is valid for new bookings only. Complimentary Pinnacle Grill dinner: per person for guests 1 and 2 sharing a stateroom and is not transferable or refundable nor redeemable for cash. Reservations and dining times will be assigned and a confirmation card will be placed in your stateroom on embarkation day. Offer excludes Speciality Dining Events in the Pinnacle Grill such as Sel de Mer, De Librije, Master Chef’s Table and Sommelier Dinner. Beverage Card valued at US$25 pp is for kids or extra guests as a 3rd/4th guest in a stateroom and is not transferable or refundable nor redeemable for cash. Participants may order beverages one at a time and must be 21 years or older for alcoholic beverages. No sharing is permitted. Beverage management reserves the right to revoke the card if misused and to refuse service for any reason, including service of alcoholic beverages to intoxicated guests. Verandah & Suite offer: Premium Internet Package is pp for guests 1 and 2 sharing a stateroom and valued from $139.99 for a 7-day cruise, up to $699.99
for a 81+ day cruise. 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. Offers end 31 October 2019. Ships’ Registry: The Netherlands.


fAr eAST/ASIA
More cruise
destinations in Asia
CLIA’s 2019 Asia Cruise Deployment and Capacity report reveals further growth in the Asia cruise market.
Joel Katz, Managing Director for CLIA Australasia & Asia comments: “The popularity of cruising in Asia is expected to grow further over coming years as cruise lines deploy new, larger vessels that have been purpose-built for Asian consumers. The coming generation of ships will replace older ships previously based in Asia and when coupled with new cruise infrastructure in several Asian destinations, are expected to fuel strong interest among travellers. The result is likely to be a return to growth for cruising in Asia after a slight decline this year”.
“Asia also has a wide diversity of appealing attractions, with many places possessing a spectacular coastline. Ships in Asia will call at 306 different destinations, an increase of
18 destinations from 2018, providing a range of choice for passengers cruising here,” he added.
This year there will be a total of 79 ships offering 1,917 sailings, with capacity for 4.02 million passengers to cruise in Asia. This shows a 5.7% decline year-on-year after several years of rapid expansion, mainly due to the reduction of short cruise itinerary options from mainland China.
Port calls to Asia will remain steady this year with 7,154 calls and many of the destinations – especially India, Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, Japan, Hong Kong and South Korea – will see growth.
Asia will also see a slight rise in passenger destination days. The 13 million passenger destination days forecast in 2019 will translate to more potential onshore visits from
cruise passengers, creating a stronger tourism
impact for the destinations across the region.
JAPAN AND THE MAGIC OF ASIA 2020-2021 WITH PRINCESS CRUISES
Japan is obviously in the news at the moment - with the Rugby World Cup and next year’s Olympic Games - giving this amazing country massive publicity and exposure to a huge audience. Make sure you benefit from a surge in demand to go there by looking at cruises in the Far East/ Asia market.
Princess Cruise Lines are an ideal choice for Japanese cruises. The Diamond Princess is based there from March to November 2020 - most cruises sail from the port of Yokohama (23 miles by road to Tokyo) and some from Kobe. Durations range from 6 to 19 nights. The itineraries are superb, showcasing bustling cities, tranquil landscapes, UNESCO World Heritage sights and Japanese culture at its very best. These voyages are perfect for clients looking for something new or different and can be combined with a stay in Japan or part of a bigger Asian itinerary.
Another great sales opportunity in this region is that Princess will reposition the popular Grand Princess from Los Angeles to debut in Asia in October 2020 and then she sets sail for Rome in April 2021. She will offer
a series of incredible value of 4 to 21-night voyages, mostly Singapore to Singapore visiting Malaysia, Bali, Vietnam, Thailand etc. Clients can look forward to immersing themselves in these destinations with special entertainment, locally inspired cuisine and of course, enjoying the style, service, comfort and superb attention to detail that every Princess cruise offers.
Now is the time to take a look at these cruises. Talk to your local Princess Cruises’ sales manager to see how you can enhance the voyages with pre and post cruise hotels stays, side trips, stopovers etc creating an irresistible trip of a lifetime at a great value price for clients. Sayanora!
OCTOBER 2019
CRUISE
SALES OPPORTUNITY...


fAr eAST/ASIA
Finnair’s short cut to Asia just got shorter with increased services and destinations
Beijing
Finnair is fast expanding its Asia network, adding 3 services per week to Beijing’s newest airport, Daxing, starting in November, this now means a choice of 10 flights per week to the Chinese capital. Finnair operates to seven destinations in Greater China, with China among Finnair’s top markets globally. This spring, Finnair announced codeshare collaborations with Juneyao Air and with China Southern, which brought 13 new Chinese destinations to Finnair’s customers.
Sapporo
The Finnish flag carrier also starts a seasonal twice weekly flight
to the ski capital of Japan, Sapporo, on the island of Hokkaido from December 15th, operating a Thursday and Sunday flight. Sapporo
is renowned for having some of the best powder snow in the world. Transiting via Helsinki rather than a Japanese city, saves over 2 hours travel time as well as the added convenience in not having to collect and re-check in luggage between domestic and international terminals.
Busan
In the summer season 2020, Finnair will operate from Helsinki to Busan three times a week, on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, starting on March 30th 2020, with its modern Airbus A350 aircraft. Busan is South Korea’s second largest city with 3.5 million inhabitants and is located on the south-eastern tip of the Korean Peninsula and is known for its beautiful scenery that combines mountains, rivers and the sea. It offers excellent beaches and great hiking trails in a temperate climate.
Finnair specialises in connecting Europe and Asia via the short Northern route through Helsinki, Finland, with timetables designed to support smooth transfers and short travel times. Finnair now connects over 100 European destinations with 20 destinations in Asia.
FLY NORTH, SAVE TIME.
Finnair flies to over 130 cities around the globe. Connect in the north at our Helsinki hub and save time by flying the shortest geographical distance between east and west. Fly with Finnair and take the shorter route when travelling Asia and the United States. Book your flights at finnair.com
OCTOBER 2019
23


fAr eAST/ASIA
Dusit International
continues Philippines
expansion
Last month, Dusit International opened dusitD2 Davao hotel in the new central district of Lanang.
The upscale, full-service dusitD2 Davao hotel comprises 120 guest rooms and suites in a prime location off JP Laurel, Lanang, close to the city’s shopping malls, business district and IT Park. Davao International Airport can be reached in 15 minutes by car.
Facilities include a courtyard swimming pool with children’s pool and play zone, restaurant, lounge, the signature Namm Spa and fitness centre.
Also set to open are Dusit Thani Residence Davao, a deluxe property offering residences and suites for short and extended stays and The Beach Club at Lubi Plantation Island, Managed by Dusit, an exclusive island retreat just off the coast of the Davao Gulf (only 10 minutes by boat from Pindasan Port), with 18 seafront villas overlooking a private beach.
British Airways announces
move to Beijing Daxing
British Airways has announced that all direct flights to and from Heathrow and Beijing will move to new state-of-the-art Daxing airport from the end of this month.
The new airport is approximately 50km from both Beijing city centre and the Xiong’an New Area and only 80km from Tianjin. Transport connections to and from Beijing Daxing include four new highways, two new subway lines and a high-speed railway, which will carry customers to Beijing West Station in under 20 minutes.
A new terminal station is set to open in the Lize Business District in the next few years. Customers transferring to other flights will also benefit from its status as the only through check-in airport for foreign airlines in China.
Beijing Daxing only opened in September and will initially house four runways and one terminal building. In the future, it is set to include an additional three runways and a second terminal building, serving 100 million customers each year. The move will also help British Airways to strengthen and develop its network through its codeshare agreement with China Southern Airlines, which will also be based
at the new airport. The London to Beijing route will continue as a daily service, operated by a Boeing 787-9 in the winter and a Boeing 777-300 in the summer.
The Philippine Tourism Board met with agents in Glasgow and Belfast on its recent UK roadshow, inviting them to find out why ‘It’s more fun in the Philippines!’
OCTOBER 2019


Your Southeast Asia and Far East Specialists
Knowledgeable staff, excellent quality and great value
Small Group Tours | Tailor-Made Journeys
China | Japan | Vietnam | Cambodia | Laos | Thailand | Sri Lanka
Essential Plus Panda
April & May 2020
NO SINGLE SUPPLEMENT! From £2,498 pp
Cherry Blossom Tour
25 March & 01 April 2020 Departures From £4,449 pp
Discover Japan By Rail
All Year Round Land Only Group Tour From £2,595
The Asia Holiday Experts
Regional Departures | Groups, Couples, Families & Solo Travellers
Guaranteed Dates at Named Hotels | Stopovers, Experiences and Extensions | Land Only Options Luxury 5* Availability | Value Options | Personal Service – Local Knowledge
Email: [email protected]
Tel: 020 8543 8133
Visit our Travel Agent’s web page www.linkstravelandtours.co.uk/travel-agents/


fAr eAST/ASIA
VIKING SHIPS ArE DESIGNED For DISCoVEry
onboard Enrichment –
Bringing culture and history to life
At Viking your clients’ time onboard is just as valuable as their experience ashore, which is why we have curated an onboard enrichment programme with some of the world’s leading cultural organisations. Not only are these tailored to each journey, there is something to suit all:
For the history buffs
Viking Resident Historians bring destinations to life with invaluable insight into the history and culture specific to your clients’ journey.
For music and art lovers
Viking Resident Musicians (pianist, guitarist, violinist and cellist) perform calming classical compositions throughout the ship. Destination Performances represent the most iconic cultural performing arts of the region, from Catalan rumba, Portuguese fado, Italian opera or world-renowned Mariinsky Theatre performers.
The Met: Live in HD provides our guests with a Privileged Access filmed performance of the Emmy Award-winning Metropolitan Opera under the starlit ‘sky’ of The Theatre. Munch Moments brings the magic of Norwegian expressionist Edvard Munch on board with a daily and interactive event that showcases several pieces of his art curated by theme on the Atrium screen.
Viking Art & Design Guide, our free Viking Voyager app can be downloaded pre trip and delivers a self-guided tour of our onboard art, photography and sculptures, which reflect our Nordic heritage and the beauty of Scandinavia.
For documentary and film fanatics
TED Talks & BBC programming, covering history, geography, science, longevity and more are shown hourly in our onboard cinemas and always available on the staterooms’ televisions. Destination Movies screened under the stars on the Main Pool deck delivers a vivid window to the world, especially when their settings shine through a main character.
For budding chefs
The Kitchen Table’s onboard cooking school allows guests to experience firsthand how our ships’ world-class culinary staff bring distinct, local flavours from market to table.
And more ...
Port talks give an overview of the next day’s port of call through informative multimedia presentations to prepare for each new day of exploration. Guest lectures shed light on the destination’s art, music, geopolitics, natural world and more.
The Spa – a soothing sanctuary of Nordic wellness
Our award-winning Spa provides complete holistic wellness and relaxation. From renewing the body and spirit in our complimentary Hot Sauna or Thermal Pool or cooling down in the fluffy snow and chilled air of our Snow Grotto.
Guests may also wish to indulge on board with soothing massages, facials or other treatments from LivNordic, Scandinavia’s leading spa. It’s an ideal way to begin or end a day of exploration.
For more information, call 020 8780 7985 or visit madefortrade.co.uk
OCTOBER 2019


Explore China with Viking
Mist-shrouded mountains and towering gorges, ancient temples and pagodas, beguiling landscapes and dynamic cities visibly shaped by the
past, yet racing towards the future, China promises a journey like no other. Our 15-day cruise-and-stay Imperial Jewels of China sails the mighty Yangtze through timeless scenery. Your clients will also explore key highlights, from dynamic Shanghai to Beijing’s Forbidden City. Our longer Roof of the World journey includes a visit to the magnificent and moving mountain kingdom of Tibet with Sera Monastery and Jokhang Temple. Certainly, there is no better way to discover China than with Viking.
2020 15-Day Imperial Jewels of China river cruise from £3,495pp 2020 18-Day Roof of the World river cruise from £5,395pp
Call a Viking Expert on 020 8780 7985 or visit madefortrade.co.uk
Prices and availability are correct at time of going to print but are subject to change. From prices are based on two people sharing the lowest grade state- room on Imperial Jewels of China or Roof of the World departing on selected dates in 2020. Single supplements apply. IMPORTANT: VISA REQUIRED.
A Chinese visa is required and is at the passengers own expense. For more information, please visit vikingcruises.co.uk/terms-conditions or call us.


&
Andrea Pellicci speaks to
BrIAN YOUNG
Managing Director EMEA, G Adventures
Where did you start
your journey in travel?
I started my career in travel way back in 1988 at Club 18-30 and have held various roles throughout the years, including working with Cosmos, Somewheretostay, Avro/Monarch, the On Holiday Group and Holiday Taxis.
What attracted you to
G Adventures?
When the opportunity came up to join
G Adventures in 2014, I just couldn’t say no! I have always enjoyed the challenge of making a company more mainstream and helping it grow. Bruce Poon Tip started G Adventures in Canada in 1990, offering small group tours with a vision to travel responsibly, support local communities and allow travellers to embrace the people, cultures, landscapes and wildlife.
I love the fact that customers get off the beaten track, get involved in the local culture and give something back to the people.
What’s G Adventures most popular tour and do you have a personal favourite?
That’s a very difficult question! We now offer more than 700 tours in 100 countries, on all 7 continents!
While Peru is probably our most popular tour, with Machu Picchu at the top of everyone’s list, my personal favourites include Thailand and Cambodia.
We once took part in a rice ceremony - helping to weigh out a portion of rice - for families that had to last a month. It was one of the most memorable and humbling experiences I have ever had.
The Golden Triangle tour in India is another tour I love. I have done this twice now and have been blown away by the passionate, friendly people, the amazing food and our social enterprise projects that operate there.
G Adventures are seen as a forward thinking company - what are the plans for the future?
As a company we want to continue to offer experiences that create lifetime memories as well as expand our social enterprise projects. Our ‘G for Good’ social impact initiatives will continue to grow with travel guidelines for children, indigenous people and wildlife.
In fact, we have just recently launched our new animal welfare policy, developed in consultation with World Animal Protection, the Jane Goodall Institute and the World Cetacean Alliance.
Guidelines in this policy include having no physical contact with, or feeding non-domesticated animals in captivity or in the wild, not visiting performances or shows involving wild animals and not consuming endangered animals.
We also aim to improve our ‘Ripple Score’ assessment, which we use to measure how many of our travellers dollars stay in the local economy.
For example, using only locally owned hotels, creating local cooperatives and community based social enterprise projects that customers can experience on a trip and locals can earn a living from.
In what ways can you help the travel trade sell more G Adventures’ tours?
Travel agents are key to our success and we want to help drive customers through their doors!
We have small group tours to suit everyone - from wellness, beach and cruise to National Geographic tours for multi-generational families, as well as tours suited to 18-30 year olds.
We offer plenty of point of sale material, regional sales managers to assist in presentations, as well as fam trips to show agents first hand, the positive impact our projects have on the local people.
G Adventures offer life-changing tours - once agents get to know our product, they can then simply match one of our tours to fit their client.
OCTOBER 2019


fAr eAST/ASIA
New Asia tours from G Adventures
With incredible wildlife, great landscapes, delicious food, friendly locals, ancient historical sites and natural beauty in abundance, Asia is the playground for adventure- seeking travellers. Global adventure travel specialist, G Adventures has launched a number of new Asia tours for 2020, catering to a broad range of travellers.
Families can get under the skin of Vietnam and Cambodia with new National Geographic Family Journeys; local experiences include a noodle making class in Hoi An as well as a cruise on a traditional junk boat to Cat Ba Island. Travelling from Hanoi to Siem Reap, families will learn about the country’s history through museum visits, the Cu Chi Tunnels and the crumbling courtyards of Angkor Wat.
Foodies will love the new 15-day ‘Singapore to Bangkok Journey’ with National Geographic Journeys. Highlights include a Chinatown street food walking tour, a Suka Suka Homestay Lunch as well as a Taman Negara rainforest canopy walk, boat trip and waterfall visit. Younger travellers can explore Myanmar’s untouched Mergui Archipelago from Bangkok on the new 11-day 18-to-Thirtysomethings ‘Myanmar Islands: Snorkelling & Village Hikes.’ Spend time in small villages, chat with locals, go island-hopping and wake up to the serene sounds of the jungle.
www.gadventures.com
Discover our new Asia
small group tours
With these new tours, you can connect your travellers to our world and some of the incredible experiences that await in Asia. Choose from Cambodia and Thailand’s incredible islands, help them explore Bali and Java on an Active tour, or introduce 18-to-Thirtysomethings travellers to the laid-back pace of Myanmar’s islands through snorkelling and hiking.
Classic Cambodia and Thai Islands - East Coast
17 Days | Classic | From £1,379
Active Bali & Java
17 Days | Active | From £1,399
Myanmar Islands: Snorkelling & Village Hikes
11 Days | 18-to-Thirtysomethings | From £979
24/7 Agent Hotline: 0207 313 6957 gadventures.com/new-tours
Prices vary and are subject to availability. For full booking terms, visit gadventures,com/terms
OctOber 2019
29


rYAN CArrOLL
BUSINESS DEVELoPMENT MANAGEr SCoTLAND & NorTHErN IrELAND
CrUISE & MArITIME VoyAGES
Ever since I started as a trainee in Ramsay World Travel in Dundee way back in 1990, I knew ‘Travel’ was going to be the career for me and it was here that I was given a fabulous grounding for what lay ahead...
Three years later, I moved on to spend
13 great years at Thomas Cook Retail
and during this time, with the support and encouragement of some amazing colleagues, I embarked on a BA Marketing Degree course at Abertay University in Dundee.
In the summer of 2006, I was delighted to have graduated and in January 2007, my first ‘On the Road’ job with Hoseasons had begun! The role at Hoseasons came to an end in November 2018, but in February 2019 I was delighted to accept the role of BDM for Cruise & Maritime Voyages and my ‘travel’ career was back on track!
Being on the road, there is a train of thought that has stuck with me ever since 2007 - when I am presented with an opportunity from an agent and I continue to refer to this when helping my travel partners sell more CMV product:
“ I can assist you with the product knowledge and the training aspect, but you know your own customers better than anyone else, so let’s work together to make it a success.”
My most successful events are always driven by the enthusiasm, knowledge, planning and preparations
of the agent partner. When I did a recent instore event promoting one of our 15 regional departure ports
around the UK & Ireland, it was exceptionally rewarding to obtain a
large number of bookings on the evening, but the promotion and the preparations surrounding
the event were second to none and it showed!
At CMV we are keen to host more instore events, coffee mornings, 121 or group training sessions, whatever you feel works best for your target audience,
I am here to help!
Furthermore, in 2020 we will have our largest ever ship visit programme in Scotland and Northern Ireland and will be hosting events in Dundee, Aberdeen, Greenock and Belfast.
These events have proven to be invaluable to all our partners who attended in 2019, so be sure to register your interest when the programme launches early 2020!
At the time of writing this, the demise of Thomas Cook had taken place less than two weeks prior. I would like to put on record my sincere thanks to every single staff member I have had the pleasure of meeting throughout my career not just in retail, but on the road as well.
I had the most amazing and rewarding time during my 13 years at Thomas Cook Retail in Dundee City Square and Perth High Street, (I even met my wife there!).
I travelled to places I could only have ever dreamt of visiting and wish all those who have been affected every success and best wishes for the future.
OCTOBER 2019


Britain’s leading independent cruise line
Specialists in no-fly cruises
Worldwide Cruise Collection 2020/21
• Traditional British cruise experience
• Six smaller to mid-sized cruise ships
• Exceptional value for money and choice
• Great deals for singles and groups
• Specialists in no-fly cruising holidays
• Sailing from 15 UK and Ireland ports including Aberdeen, Dundee, Greenock, Belfast, Newcastle, Hull and Liverpool
SUMMER 2020 SAVE UP TO 50%^
WINTER 2020/21
BUY ONE GET ONE FREE*
Columbus
Magellan
Marco Polo
Astoria
Astor
Vasco da Gama
Norwegian Fjords - Baltic Cities - British Isles - Iceland - Northern Lights - Canary Islands & Madeira European Cities - Scottish Isles - River Seine - Spain & Portugal - Greenland - Canada
Round the World Cruise - World Cruise Sectors - Oriental Odyssey - South America & Amazon Voyages to/from Australia & New Zealand - Christmas & New Year and Festive Breaks
Book online at: www.cruiseandmaritime.com Call: 0844 414 6161 Agency Sales: 0844 414 6140 Brochures: www.trade-gate.co.uk
AWARDS
Subject to availability. Terms & conditions apply. *Book by 31st October 2019. ^Book by 9th December 2019. Offered for sale in the UK by South Quay Travel & Leisure Ltd trading as Cruise & Maritime Voyages. Calls cost 7p per minute plus your telephone comany’s access charge. ABTA V9945. ATOL 4619. 5018
2018
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Quite literally surrounded by natural
beauty, Vancouver is considered to be
one of the most desirable places in
the world to visit, drawing visitors
from all corners of the globe, eager to
be charmed, wowed and entertained.
Vancouver is an outdoor playground, filled with green spaces and an attractive waterfront. Walking, cycling, rollerblading and watersports are not holiday activities for Vancouverites, but simply an everyday way of life.
This city is also renowned for its diverse culture and ethnicity. The Coast Salish people have called Vancouver home for thousands of years and their cultural traditions, love of nature, crafts, heritage, and spiritual history run deep into Vancouver’s roots. While it’s true that Vancouver’s beauty will have you constantly reaching for your camera, the appeal is more than skin deep – Vancouver’s vibrant personality and relaxed lifestyle provide the warmest of welcomes.
If you have time to discover more of British Columbia, Vancouver provides the perfect launch pad to explore other parts of the province. Along the gloriously scenic Sea to Sky Highway you’ll find incredible outdoor adventures just 45 minutes away in Squamish or in the nearby town of Whistler. You could also hop across to Vancouver Island to visit the charming
provincial capital, Victoria, or hang ten in Canada’s surfing capital of Tofino. Inland, discover the wine growing region of Okanagan Valley or explore the four national parks of Kootenay Rockies.
Overlooking the Pacific Ocean,
with a dramatic mountain backdrop, Vancouver is renowned for its culture, attractions and cosmopolitan vibe.


EXPERIENCE VANCOUVER
4 NIGHT CITY BREAK
Prices start at £1,530 per person
Our Vancouver city break is perfect for those wanting to experience this fabulous city on a short break. A harbour cruise, foodie tour and two day sightseeing pass are included, ensuring that you make the most of your visit and don’t miss key highlights.
WEST COAST EXPLORER
12 NIGHT MULTI CENTRE Prices start at £3,032 per person
Visit three beautiful British Columbia locations without the need of a car. Independently explore Vancouver for five nights before staying in Whistler and Victoria for three nights each, travelling by floatplane, ferry and motorcoach.
VANCOUVER & WHISTLER
7 NIGHT TWIN CENTRE Prices start at £1,858 per person
This seven night twin centre introduces you to Vancouver’s vibrant personality and relaxed lifestyle during a four night stay, before following the Sea to Sky Highway to the stunning mountain resort of Whistler for a further three nights.
BRITISH COLUMBIA EXPLORER 14 NIGHT FLY DRIVE
Prices start at £2,880 per person
Discover the delights of Vancouver before your adventure takes you to the beautiful Sunshine Coast, along the scenic Sea to Sky Highway to Whistler and across the water to Vancouver Island, where Victoria, Tofino and Parksville await your arrival.
WIN AN APPLE WATCH
We have partnered with Tourism Vancouver to give you the opportunity of winning an incredible prize. One lucky winner will become the proud owner of an Apple Watch!
All you have to do to be in with a chance of winning, is book your clients holiday to British Columbia with North America Travel Service. The travel agent who books the most room nights in Vancouver, will be our winner.
BOOKING PERIOD: between October 1st and December 31st 2019.
TRAVEL/STAY DATES: anytime.
APPLICABLE ROOM NIGHTS: hotel stays in Vancouver and its neighborhoods.
HOW TO ENTER: there is no need to do anything. At the end of the booking period, we will contact the lucky winner.
For full competition details, terms and conditions, please visit our website.
GOOD LUCK!
[email protected]
0333 323 9033
northamericatravelservice.co.uk


Introducing Our New
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Greenest in its class
Our new Airbus A321neoLR is in perfect sync with our continued efforts in sustainable tourism.
It burns 15% less fuel, reduces noise by 50% and lowers emissions of the greenhouse gas NOx by 50%.


On cloud nine
With roomier seats—1.5 inches wider than those in the Airbus A310—go ahead and take up more space in our brand-new Economy Class.
Have fun on the fly with our state-of-the-art in-seat entertainment system, with larger individual
touch screens—10.1 inches vs. 8.9 inches.
Travelling in style
Kick back and relax in our brand-new spacious Club Class with redesigned seats in deep blue and larger individual touch screens.
Canada starts here. Fly direct from Glasgow Airport to Toronto aboard the new Airbus A321neoLR starting in November.
2019 World’s Best Leisure Airline airtransat.co.uk Available to book via GDS


Advertisement feature
Abercrombie & Kent’s top four
ESCORTED TOURS FOR 2020
Featuring two brand-new tours in Egypt and South-east Asia
Clients come to us for a holiday
that is authentic, luxurious and designed with them in mind – and
that’s what we deliver. Our escorted tours guarantee exemplary access, five-star style, and unparalleled insight courtesy of our resident tour directors and guides.
We have two main types of tour: Immersive Journeys and Luxury Small Group Journeys. The first is for travellers seeking a slower paced, more in-depth discovery of a destination, while the second is for those who want to cover more ground in the time they’re away. Read on to discover our top four escorted tours for 2020.
EGYPT: CAIRO &
CRUISING THE NILE
8 nights | From £3,995pp
This tour is a chance to discover the icons of Ancient Egypt, beginning in Cairo and ending in Luxor. Clients will explore inside the Great Pyramid of Giza, enjoy special entry in the Valley of the Kings, and cruise on the Nile in style aboard the Sanctuary Nile Adventurer. Plus, if they travel with
us before October 2020, they’ll have privileged access to the as-yet-unopened Grand Egyptian Museum, which houses Tutankhamun’s treasures.
RHYTHMS OF SOUTH-EAST ASIA
11 nights | From £3,795pp
With so much to see in such close proximity, South-east Asia is the perfect destination for a multi-centre holiday.
This escorted tour whisks clients through Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos, giving them plenty of time to drink in the sights and sounds along the way. They will cruise
the emerald waters of Ha Long Bay,
watch the sun rise over Angkor Wat,
sail on the Mekong, explore the Cu Chi Tunnels and enjoy a dawn cyclo tour
of Ho Chi Minh City.
SPLENDOURS OF THE
GOLDEN TRIANGLE
11 nights | From £2,295pp
This immersive tour takes guests on the famous Golden Triangle route and beyond. In Agra, clients will witness the Taj Mahal at sunrise and sunset; in Delhi, they will discover India’s old and new amidst the bustle of the city; and in Jaipur, they’ll have the chance to admire the captivating Amber Fort. We’ve also dedicated three days to exploring Udaipur, the ‘City
of Lakes’, where clients will visit the renowned City Palace and cruise on
the tranquil waters of Lake Pichola.
INSIDE TRACKS IN
ARGENTINA & BRAZIL
8 nights | From £3,295pp
Clients will discover two icons of South America in one escorted tour, beginning with the cosmopolitan charms of Buenos Aires. This itinerary features a private tour of the famed Teatro Colón, a rare chance to admire Iguazú Falls out-of-hours, a visit to Rio’s treasured landmark Christ the Redeemer, and a sundowner atop Sugarloaf Mountain.
INCLUSIONS:
• Small groups of no more than 18
• Guaranteed departures on tours
with a minimum of two bookings
• Design your Day® on selected
days, giving clients a choice
between a range of activities
• Resident tour director and
English-speaking local guides
• Welcome and farewell dinners
• Five-star accommodation,
carefully chosen by our experts
• Airport meet-and-greet,
and return private transfers
• Entrance fees, taxes and tips
For more information on A&K’s escorted tours, please contact our specialists on 01242 547 837


HOT OFF THE PRESS
Find the perfect escorted tour for your clients in A&K’s brand-new brochure
abercrombiekent.co.uk/brochure
WIN
A FAM TRIP Make a booking between 1 Sep and 30 Nov 2019 and you’ll be in with a chance towinaspotonanA&K educational trip in 2020


eSCOrTeD HOLIDAYS
Titan’s top long haul escapes for 2020
Titan has unveiled its top long haul holidays for 2020, featuring a selection of its bestselling signature tours, top trending destinations and recommended tours by Titan’s Travel Advisers.
Titan’s signature tours include some of its long-standing favourites, including ‘California and the Golden West’, which has celebrated its 30th Titan anniversary this year. Others are more recent additions ranging from:
• Southern Sights and Sounds
• The Awe-Inspiring National Parks
• South African Safari Adventure
• The Best of Australia
• The Best of New Zealand
• California and the Golden West
Top trending destinations for 2020 departures include:
• Grand Canadian Coast to Coast
• Cuban Discovery
• Mexico’s Mayan Trail
• Armenia and Georgia
Titan’s Travel
Advisers have also
included a selection
of their favourite
tours that they
believe deserve the
spotlight for 2020.
These tours visit
some of the most
iconic destinations in
the world including
New York, Kuala
Lumpur, Sydney, and
Auckland and offer a
number of exceptional experiences, from watching the sunrise at Uluru and Kata Tjuta to enjoying a Symphony of Lights harbour cruise in Hong Kong.
Take in the view from an escorted train holiday
Great Rail Journeys offer a wide range of escorted rail holidays, from the Himalayas to the Glacier Express.
Train holidays offer clients the opportunity to see a destination from its best vantage point while relaxing on the train.
Great Rail holidays are escorted by a Tour Manager, from the beginning to the end of the rail tour, ensuring that guests get to the train on time, meet in the right places and on days at leisure, advise on the best sights to see.
For customers who want to venture ‘down under’, Great Rail take in a number of highlights in Australasia include Sydney, the Great Barrier Reef to Uluru rock in the heart of the desert.
The New Zealand tour includes Auckland, the Bay of Islands, the vast Franz Josef glacier and some of the Lord of the Rings film locations. All Australasian tours include top quality hotels and travel on many classic rail routes.
OCTOBER 2019


£30 lifestyle voucher
for every USA or Canada booking
Whether it’s a Californian adventure, a tour of the Deep South or maybe even a trip on the famous Rocky Mountaineer train, book one of our USA or Canada holidays this October and we’ll send you a £30 Lifestyle voucher to say thank you.
Or receive a £10 Lifestyle voucher for any other Titan booking
To claim your voucher please email [email protected]
The nitty gritty: Terms and conditions apply. Valid for new bookings made between 1 - 31 October 2019. Please claim within 7 days of confirming the booking. Agents responsible for any tax implications.
No cash alternatives. For more details, please see
www.titanagents.co.uk


12 day Sail Greece –
Mykonos to Santorini
Mykonos | Naxos | Small Cyclades | Amorgos | Ios | Santorini
SMALL GROUP JOURNEY WITH INTREPID
14 day Vietnam
Express Southbound
Hanoi | Halong Bay | Hue | Hoi An | Ho Chi Minh City | Mekong Delta
SMALL GROUP JOURNEY WITH INTREPID
Enjoy the atmosphere of the waterfront bars that line the beach of Mykonos and explore the 11th-century monastery of Moni Hozoviotissis in Amorgos. Finish your sailing adventure with four nights in beautiful Santorini and lose yourself amongst the iconic blue domes.
Edinburgh from
£1,999pp
• Return flights
• 11 nights’ accommodation
• Services of an English-speaking
tour leader
Valid for travel: 30 May 20
Additional departures: Selected dates,
May - Oct 20
Price is based on flights with British Airways
13 day Serengeti Trail & Zanzibar Stay
Nairobi | Kisii | Lake Victoria | Serengeti National Park | Ngorongoro Crater | Mto Wa Mbu | Zanzibar
SMALL GROUP JOURNEY WITH INTREPID
Explore the Serengeti National Park in depth and embark on an unforgettable safari across the floor of the Ngorongoro Crater. Visit Lake Victoria, Africa’s largest lake and the largest tropical lake in the world then end your tour with a relaxing stay on the beaches of Zanzibar.
Edinburgh from
£2,259pp
• Return flights
• 12 nights’ accommodation
• 11 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 9 dinners • Services of an English-speaking
tour leader
• Selected sightseeing • Selected transfers
Valid for travel: 08 May 20
Additional departures: Selected dates,
year round
Price is based on flights with Kenya Airways
EARN T2 REWARDS WITH EVERY BOOKING!
Capture the very best of magical Vietnam from the charming Hanoi, to the hustle and bustle of Ho Chi Minh City.Visit some of the must see sights with your group of up to 15 others, as well as enjoying free time to make your own discoveries. Finish the tour with a beach stay
at Mui Ne. Edinburgh from
£2,099pp
• Return flights
• 13 nights’ accommodation
• 13 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners • Services of an English-speaking
tour leader
• Selected sightseeing
• Selected transfers
• SAVE up to £70 per person
Valid for travel: 05 Mar 20
Additional departures: Regular, year round Price is based on flights with Vietnam Airlines
12 day Beautiful Cuba
Havana | Soroa | Vinales | Bay of Pigs | Cienfuegos | Trinidad | Santa Clara | Varadero
SMALL GROUP JOURNEY WITH INTREPID
Take in all the colours and aromas of Soroa, the stunning valley area known as the ‘rainbow of Cuba’. Learn about the iconic Cuban revolutionary Che Guevara on a visit to his mausoleum and try your hand at traditional dance moves with an informal salsa lesson. Finally, soak up the Cuban sun from the beach in Varadero.
Edinburgh from
£2,499pp
• Return flights
• 11 nights’ accommodation
• 11 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 6 dinners • Services of an English-speaking
tour leader
• Selected sightseeing • Selected transfers
Valid for travel: 27 Apr - 15 Aug 20 Additional departures: Selected dates, year round
Price is based on flights with Air France
Regional departures are available on request


tailor-made touring & adventure holidays
Travel 2’s Touring & Incredible Journeys brings together multiple destinations, modes of transport and unforgettable experiences to excite and inspire your customers who are looking for more from their holiday.
With over 37 years’ experience in organising tailor-made tours around the world,Travel 2 can draw from a wealth of knowledge from our sales consultants and product teams, to create the perfect travel combination for your customers.
Far from the typical stereotype of coach tours, escorted tours are perfect for travellers who want to experience destinations with other like-minded individuals. With a tour to suit any budget, we have products suitable for all age groups, from the young to the young-at-heart, and with a tour director at the helm taking care of all of the finer details, your clients can relax safe in the knowledge that they will be looked after from start to finish.
Look out for our touring and adventure brochure coming soon with an all new look!
INCREDIBLE JOURNEYS BY TRAVEL 2 2019/20
Call our dedicated Incredible Journeys by Travel 2 department FREE on 0800 0224 302


eSCOrTeD HOLIDAYS
New tour from Saga
Saga’s brand new nine-day tour of Lebanon, ‘The Pearl of the Middle East’ allows visitors to explore this fascinating country, which after years of conflict, is regenerating its capital.
The itinerary includes a city tour of Beirut, including the National Museum, beautifully restored after the civil war and featuring exhibits dating from prehistoric and Roman times.
There are Roman baths, a variety of museums, Mohammad Al-Amin ‘Blue’ Mosque, the Grand Serail government palace and offshore natural formations known as the Pigeon Rocks to be viewed.
Other highlights include a visit to the forest known as the Cedars of God, near Bcharre, a visit to Sidon, with its sea castle, souks and elegant khan – a building of arcades around a courtyard and fountain – and nearby Tyre, which owes its UNESCO World Heritage status to its Phoenician and Roman archaeological significance, as well as a claim to the invention of purple dye.
Guests can also discover the chapels and monasteries cut into the rock on a hike in the Qadisha Valley, en route to Byblos, a harbour town with lovely beaches, temples and mosques and a 12th-century Crusader citadel and museum.
Byblos is also home to the extraordinary Jeita Grotto of caverns and lakes, which Saga’s guests can explore by cable car and a small train, as well as by boat.
The holiday also includes the Chouf region, contrasting the palace of Beit ed Dine with the village of Deir el Qamar and stops in Baalbeck, Anjar and the Begag Valley, once at the heart of the war zone, now offering Saga’s guests the chance to sample the award-winning wines of Chateau Ksara, established in 1857.
Guests stay on a half-board basis at Le Commodore Hotel, in Beirut, for three nights; the Deir El Ouma, in Deir El Qamar for two nights; the Cedrus Hotel, in Bcharre for one night and the Ahiram Hotel in Byblos for two nights.
Latin routes launches small group tours
Latin routes has launched its first-ever escorted group tours programme.
Commencing in May 2020 and running through to March 2021, the operator will offer 9 itineraries, in six countries including Peru, Chile, Brazil, Costa Rica, Ecuador
and the Galapagos Islands and Argentina. All departures are guaranteed, will have a maximum of 16 passengers, will be fully escorted and for adults-only.
For dance lovers, tours include the ‘Strictly Tango’ Holiday to Buenos Aires, which offers visitors numerous tango schools and dancing in restaurants and cafes everywhere.
Guests will enjoy 7 nights’ in four-star accommodation, 6 private tango sessions
at the DNI Tango School, tour of the city’s highlights, daily breakfast, transfers and flights from the UK.
I TrAVeL A LOT....
I HATe HAVING MY LIfe DISrUPTeD BY rOUTINe
OCTOBER 2019


ESCORTED TOURS
COLLECTION
Authentic experiences, amazing destinations... and value that adds up
Saga’s escorted tours are the ideal way to see the world’s most stunning destinations. What’s more, as we take care of the little details, your customers can make the most of the big experiences, creating holiday moments they’ll never forget.
Book online at sagaagents.co.uk, call FREE on 0800 074 8021
or contact Trade Support FREE on 0800 068 8732
Visit our online training platform at sagaexperts.co.uk Find us on social media Saga Trade Team
Saga’s holidays and cruises are exclusively for the over 50s, but a travel companion can be 40+. NTA-GH9374


eSCOrTeD HOLIDAYS
Classic touring holidays
with Travelsphere
Travelsphere’s escorted tours are an ideal way for clients to meet like-minded people and explore must-see sights. There are plenty of destinations on offer and with flights, accommodation and transfers all included, there is something for everyone. For example, the operator’s 11-day Grand Baltic Explorer allows customers to discover five countries on one epic journey from Poland to Finland, travelling through the Baltic states of Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia.
The tour begins in Warsaw with a two-night stay in Poland’s capital and then moves onto Vilnius in Lithuania, whose medieval Old Town is one of the largest in Europe. Other highlights include Latvia’s picturesque capital, Riga, where sightseeing highlights include an ancient castle and a fascinating open-air museum and Tallinn in Estonia, via the beautiful Gauja National Park. The final destination is a ferry ride to the Finnish capital, Helsinki, with visits to Senate Square, the Presidential Palace and the Sibelius Monument.
Tour departs from May - September 2020 with guaranteed departures, guaranteed price match and a guaranteed price promise for early bookings. The tour also includes the services of a tour manager and local guide.
Step into a world of experiences with Leger Holidays
Leger Holidays offer a selection of escorted tours across the UK, Europe and worldwide by luxury coach, air, rail and cruise.
With state-of-the-art travel, including the Luxuria and Silver Service coaches, Leger offer holidays for single travellers, river cruises, festive holidays, Grand Explorer tours as
well as Battlefield tours and live events. The operator also offers local coach joining points throughout the UK.
Leger’s ‘See it Live’ event tours include live shows, sporting events, horse racing and concerts, ranging from Formula One breaks, including the Belgian Grand Prix and Monaco, to the Tour de France finale in Paris. For musical maestros, tours include the Bregenz Opera as well as Andre Rieu, live in concert.
The operator also offers Battlefield Tours
with specialist guides, visiting the WW1 battlefields, WW2 battlefields and sites from other significant wars, including Waterloo, The American Civil War and the Boer and Zulu Wars of South Africa.
Offering a wide range of itineraries, each coach or air tour is accompanied by a Specialist Battlefield Guide, whose knowledge will help bring history to life.
New England in the Fall
Clients can discover New England in the Fall on Newmarket Holidays’ 9-day escorted tour. The tour includes return flights to New York, seven nights’ room- only hotel accommodation, coach travel, transfers and is fully escorted by an experienced tour manager.
Highlights include a full-day Fall Foliage tour; Boston’s world-famous Freedom Trail; a drive along the Kancamagus Highway; a visit to North Conway, in the heart of the scenic White Mountains; coastal Maine, including Portland and exclusive Kennebunkport; a visit to the Yankee Candle Factory; historic Plymouth and Newport, Rhode Island. Clients also have the option of a Mount Washington tour.
2020/21 departures include Aberdeen, Belfast City George Best, Edinburgh, Glasgow and Newcastle.
OCTOBER 2019


Lapland Santa Experience Day Breaks
December 2019 | Adults from £499 | Children from £399
Flying direct to Pajala airport from
Birmingham | Bournemouth | Cardiff | East Midlands | Exeter – SOLD OUT | Gatwick | Glasgow Humberside – SOLD OUT | Leeds/Bradford | Liverpool | Norwich – SOLD OUT
For bookings, brochures, posters and more, please visit www.newmarketholidays.co.uk/agents-login or call us on 0330 160 7999
Travel Matters FP Lapland Ed 24 Oct.indd 2 04/10/2019 12:27


eSCOrTeD HOLIDAYS
WITH rIVIErA TrAVEL, ESCorTED ToUrS TICK ALL THE BoXES
Discover the newest additions to Riviera Travel escorted tours, packed with impressive itineraries, knowledgeable tour managers and hand-picked accommodation. From Maritime Canada to Memories of the Raj and The Silk Road to Treasures of Jaipur, our latest range of worldwide tours offer your customers exciting new opportunities for discovery.
“On our holidays, your customers can expect bucket list destinations! My favourite new tours would have to be Ecuador & The Galapagos, North Japan and South Korea,” says Emma Rodgers, Riviera Travel’s Business Development Manager for the North of England and Scotland.
Joining the already popular Costa Rica, Great National Parks of The Western USA, Canada’s Rocky Mountaineer and more, are nine new escorted tours to unforgettable destinations. Ecuador & The Galapagos is an immersive island-hopping experience, full of the world’s most unique wildlife, whilst the visit to South Korea is an opportunity to embrace the fascinating modern history and politics, as well as ancient traditions and tranquil ways of life.
“The incredible itineraries include the likes of UNESCO World Heritage Sites and historic landmarks, the chance to witness some iconic wildlife and immerse yourself in fascinating cultures and their local traditions,” Emma continues.
“Riviera Travel excursions are made special with expert guides and their local knowledge, who make sure there is plenty of free time to explore.”
If there’s one thing that all Riviera Travel escorted tours have in common, it’s adventure. The best part is, all the planning is done for your clients, including travel, accommodation and excursions. The flights are included too, which are offered with regional departures.
Your clients can rest assured that there are no hidden fees or taxes and Riviera Travel are ABTA and ATOL protected. What’s more, a friendly tour manager will host the tour from start to finish, helping with any issues that may arise.
There are so many ways they can personalise their holiday
too, whether it be upgrading the hotel, adding an extension or arranging pre-bookable excursions with the “Make It Your Own” options. These include the likes of authentic cookery classes in South Korea, whale-watching in the Bay of Fundy and the world- famous Folkloric Ballet of Mexico City.
As well as the incredible worldwide options, there are some great European city breaks for clients who want a shorter holiday, or to stay closer to home. From Classical Spain to Gdańsk and Paris to Bruges, there really is something for everyone.
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.
OCTOBER 2019


AWARD-WINNING
ESCORTED TOURS
Return UK flights and oversea transfers Insightful guided tours and visits Outstanding tour managers
Free time to explore
Hand-picked hotels
A dedicated sales team available for support
CONTACT US FOR FURTHER DETAILS OR FOR AGENCY SALES SUPPORT
Call agency sales for support: 01283 744307 Call reservations to book: 01283 744370 Email: [email protected] Book online: www.rivieratravel.co.uk/agents
POMPEII, CAPRI & THE BAY OF NAPLES
8 days from £729PP Departures March to November 2020
DUBROVNIK & THE DALMATIAN COAST
8 days half-board from £1,079PP Departures April to October 2020
DEEP SOUTH USA PLUS TEXAS
14 days from £2,399PP Departures April to November 2020
Riviera Travel booking terms and conditions apply. Prices correct at time of print.
ABTA No.V4744


Hi there Peeps!
Due to my popularity and workload, this is one bear who won’t be hibernating this year if my diary is anything to go by!
Headed north to the Granite City for the annual SPAA STAR event. The SPAA’s newest Associate member, H10 Hotels, Scott Harman had heard I was in the building and pushed his way through the throng to meet me. I heard all about his amazing hotels and products – welcome to the SPAA!
Tom Sneddon was there despite a nasty chest infection, showing true devotion to the cause – he clearly needs a United flight somewhere in the sun to recuperate! Also met up with the flying Finn himself, Craig Musson, the new Mr Finnair for the North – welcome! There was a big turn out from the local agents who all seemed to be having a good time, taking the opportunity to find out more about all the great products on show.
A bear never tires of afternoon tea, especially in the fabulous surroundings of
Crossbasket Castle. The event was jointly hosted by the great people from Arizona and North America Travel Service. Thirty of their top agents were treated to some scrummy cakes and scones... mmmm! Arizona sounds like an amazing place to visit and we learned all about not just the Grand Canyon but Sedona, Phoenix, Scottsdale, Monument Valley
and much more...
The Incredible India roadshow rolled into town, hosted by no less than the Assistant Director of the Ministry of Tourism who asked for a personal one to one with me. I was generously given a beautiful authentic Indian scarf which I wore with pride – one very classy bear I would say. After meeting all the exhibitors, we got to taste the delights of India – let me tell you - the food was amazeballs! India is much more than the Taj Mahal and Golden Triangle and I now have this destination well and truly on my bear bucket list!
Talking of meeting important people, I went from the Sub-Continent to the sunny Caribbean Sea in one step and met with the Minister of Tourism and International Transport for Barbados, the Hon Kerrie Symmonds and we talked all things calypso! Showcasing my new understated tropical shirt, I fitted right in. They have appointed a local Bajan man for all things Barbados you know – Shane Thomas was there and tempted me with his rum cake and cocktails (hic!). He is passionate about all things Barbados and you should contact him about anything to do with this beautiful island in the sun.
Speak soon!
OCTOBER 2019
The social diary of Gregorz the bear (71⁄4 inches tall)


Ultra-luxury cruise line, Silversea Cruises is celebrating its Silver Jubilee this year. Founded by the Lefebvre family 25 years ago in 1994, with purpose-built ship, Silver Cloud, the cruise line has since carried almost half a million guests on approximately 4,100 voyages.
Offering destination expertise, the launch of Silversea Expeditions in 2008 pushed the boundaries of discovery further with milestone voyages including Antarctica, the West Coast of Africa and the Russian Arctic; Micronesia, Melanesia and Polynesia; the Galapagos Islands, the Russian Far East, the Kimberley Coast, and the first Northwest Passage crossing and Bangladesh.
In 2019, Silversea’s guests will traverse the Northeast Passage for the first time, while the cruise line will undertake the world’s first ever Expedition World Cruise in 2021.
Silversea’s guests today enjoy a fleet of nine ultra-luxury, intimate ships with an additional five ships on order. Following the launch of Silver Cloud in 1994, Silver Wind doubled the cruise line’s capacity in 1995. Silver Shadow and Silver Whisper were launched in 2000 and 2001, respectively. Silver Explorer, the cruise line’s first ice-class ship, unlocked expedition experiences around the world for guests from 2008. Silver Spirit joined the fleet in 2009, followed by Silver Galapagos in 2013 and Silver Discoverer in 2014.
The cruise line’s flagship, Silver Muse, was launched in 2017 and inspired a fleet-wide ‘Musification’ - the systematic refurbishment of Silversea’s ships, which is ongoing. In 2020, Silver Origin - the most elegant ship to ever sail the Galapagos - and Silver Moon will join the fleet, followed by Silver Dawn in 2021 and the first of two Evolution Class ships in 2022.
MAJOr MILeSTONeS
1994 Silver Cloud departs Civitavecchia on maiden voyage.
2001 Silversea's first World Cruise sets sail from Los Angeles - 126-day voyage.
2008 Silversea acquired World Discoverer, redesigned the interior and renamed her Prince Albert II (later Silver Explorer).
2008 Silversea Expedition launches, the world’s first ever ultra-luxury expedition cruise line.
2012 Silversea becomes the first ever expedition cruise company to offer in-depth visits to the West Coast of Africa.
2013 Silversea visits remote islands in Micronesia, Melanesia and Polynesia.
2013 Silversea partners with the royal Geographic Society to enrich guests’ expeditions.
2014 Silversea becomes the first company to bring an ultra-luxury product to the Galapagos Islands, training local guides to combine expert knowledge with high-quality service.
2014 Silversea unveils itineraries to the Philippines, The russian Far East and Kimberley in Australia.
2014 Silver Explorer unlocks the Northwest Passage for Silversea guests.
2016 Silversea launches a partnership with Dr. Galdikas and Camp Leakey, offering unique access to the orangutan rehabilitation centre.
2017 Silver Cloud is converted into a luxurious ice-class crossover.
It is an instant success and now enjoys the highest guest satisfaction rate across the fleet.
2017 Silversea becomes first ever cruise company to stop in Bangladesh.
2017 Silversea launches the Expedition Leadership Training Academy, which recruits and develops talented expedition experts.
2018 Silversea partners with orCA – a whale and dolphin protection charity – to benefit conservation efforts and to enrich the cruise experience for guests.
2020 Expected delivery of Silver Origin & Silver Moon.
2020 Planned Silver Wind refurbishment and conversion.
2021 Silversea will complete the world’s first ever Expedition World Cruise.
2021 Expected delivery of Silver Dawn.
2022 First of two Evolution Class ships to be delivered.
OCTOBER 2019
49


Tour of Uganda with Africa & Beyond
fAM TrIP reVIeW
by fIONA BIBBY, The Travel Architect
I was very fortunate this year to be invited by Africa and Beyond on an exciting fam trip to Uganda!
The seven-night trip included the very special experience of trekking in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, to see (and indeed meet face to face) the mountain gorillas!
where we stayed overnight and enjoyed a sunset cruise on the Lake.
We then headed North to Murchison Falls (Uganda’s largest national park), stopping along the six hour journey to take in a walking safari at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.
Accommodation
We stayed in a mixture of 4 and 5-star accommodation.
Experiences
A bush breakfast! Gliding down the Nile Delta on a boat, where we saw numerous pods of Hippos, swimming alongside and trotting along on the adjacent sandbanks. Hiking up to The Falls.
We flew to Kasese with Aerolink Uganda and then on to Kibale National Park.
In Kibale, we set off to track down its most famous inhabitants - the resident chimpanzees, followed by a boat trip
on the Kazinga channel in the stunning Queen Elizabeth National Park. We even spotted the famous Ishasha ‘tree climbing lions’!
Gorilla Trek
I had the fabulous ‘Livingstone’ who carried my backpack and helped me climb the 1,700 metres altitude over four hours (porters like Livingstone only get 2 or 3 days work a month and receive just 15 dollars per trip).
The reward was discovering and spending an hour in the company of the majestic mountain gorillas. I have to say that from all my 40 plus years in travel, this was
one of the best experiences I’ve ever had! There are currently only 1,004 mountain gorillas in the world - half of which are in Bwindi - so we were extremely privileged to be in their company.
Summary
Remarkable itinerary with amazing experiences, including chimp tracking, meeting the gorillas and discovering all of the other wildlife. Highlights include the stunning scenery, the delicious food and the warmth of the people.
Uganda really is an extraordinary place that has something for everyone.
Though this was undoubtedly the highlight of the tour, I was blown away by how many other unique attractions and activities this landlocked country in East Africa has to offer.
Getting there
We started by flying with Ethiopian Airlines via Addis Ababa to Entebbe – a town on the peninsula of Lake Victoria -
The trek itself was fairly tough, though you are helped by a designated local porter.
OCTOBER 2019