Giving agents the edge - Travel Bulletin
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
TB 2709 2019 Cover_Layout 1 25/09/2019 11:13 Page 1
September 27 2019 | ISSUE NO 2,124 | travelbulletin.co.uk Giving agents the edge
S01 TB 2709 2019 Start_Layout 1 24/09/2019 16:58 Page 2
S01 TB 2709 2019 Start_Layout 1 24/09/2019 16:59 Page 3
SEPTEMBER 27 2019 | travelbulletin.co.uk NEWS BULLETIN 3
THIS WEEK ACCESS ALL AREAS
Research from Purple Tuesday, an organisation which promotes
access for disabled people, shows the travel industry is losing
millions of pounds by not being inclusive of disabled customers.
04
NEWS
Industry news to help
Only 5% of those surveyed
agents sell better holidays
say that travel businesses
are the most accessible to
purchase from.
08
AGENT INSIGHT
Sandy on this year’s
Travel Bulletin Star Awards
09
AGENT BULLETIN
Prizes galore and online training
courses for destinations MORE THAN 13 million More than half (56%) customers’ experiences, far
people in the UK – a fifth of agreed that improving staff too many are not.
the population – are understanding about “This is a huge mistake,
disabled, and a Purple different disabilities would not least because by turning
Tuesday poll of people who encourage them to spend their backs on disabled
consider themselves to be their disposable income, shoppers, they are losing out
11 disabled has revealed that
more than half of
estimated to be £249 billion
a year. Separate research
on millions of pounds of
revenue every year.
PUZZLE BULLETIN
Complete a Sudoku puzzle for a respondents are struggling has shown that 75% of “It should simply not be
chance to win a Jet2 goody bag to make purchases of a disabled people have had to the case that one in two
product or a service due to leave a store or website, disabled people struggle to
their disability, including the unable to go through with make purchases online or in
purchase of travel products. their purchase because of person. Small changes can
Disabled young people their disability. make a big difference to the
(aged 16-24) fare the worst – Mike Adams OBE, chief customer experience.”
more than three-quarters of executive of Purple, the Disabled consumers told
12 them say they have found it
difficult to purchase things
disability organisation behind
Purple Tuesday, said:
pollsters that inaccessible
and unusable locations, poor
BULLETIN BRIEFING
Reasons to harness the power of online or in person due to “While many UK customer service and a lack
social media with Global’s their disability, with only 5% businesses and organisations of understanding about
Andy Stark stating that travel businesses are stepping up to the mark disabilities were the main
are the most accessible to and making the changes reasons they struggled to
purchase from. needed to improve disabled spend their money.
14
STAR AWARDS @TravelBulletin
020 7834 6661
Published by : Printed by: Buxton Press
All the glitz, glamour & winners of Alain Charles Publishing (Travel) Ltd Subscriptions are £125 p.a. @TravelBulletin
the 2019 Star Awards University House, 11-13 Lower Grosvenor £195 overseas
Place London, SW1W 0EX ISSN: 0956-2419 www.travelbulletin.co.uk Travel_Bulletin
S01 TB 2709 2019 Start_Layout 1 24/09/2019 16:59 Page 4
4 NEWS BULLETIN SEPTEMBER 27 2019 | travelbulletin.co.uk
#JustAmazing solo tours from Just You Live and let Thai
JUST YOU has launched a KRABI ISLAND in Thailand has
#JustAmazing campaign to The JustAmazing tours has an seen a new James Bond Island
option of eight days in Uzbekistan.
coincide with its latest tour introduced, thanks to its
brochure, offering guests the starring role in 'The Man with the
opportunity to experience Golden Gun.’
solo travel in 2020. The Centara Grand Beach Resort
“We’re incredibly excited & Villas Krabi encourages its
to reveal our new campaign, guests to discover the culture of
which is being driven by the the destination, and now offers the
experiences of our own James Bond tour either from a
customers,” said Alastair traditional Thai longtail boat or by
Campbell, Just You’s speedboat for added adrenaline.
managing director. Offering a balance of adventure
“We are guaranteeing the with local Thai culture, each of
departure of over 800 these tours offers the opportunity
individual tours along with to not only visit the James Bond
our guaranteed price
promise and guaranteed
price match available on
every holiday.”
In addition, protected
deposits will mean that if World Heritage Sites and spot and cruising Lake Garda to
customers need to cancel wildlife in the Simien exploring the towns of the
their holiday, their deposit Mountains National Park, over Amalfi Coast.
can be used for another trip. 12 days and from £3,599. A new UK tour is ‘Walking
Along with the campaign, A new tour is ‘Uzbekistan in Snowdonia’. The five-day
Just You’s latest brochure & The Silk Road’, spread journey costs from £799 and
features 11 new Europe and over eight day sand from crosses the landscapes of
worldwide tours. £2,199. Travellers will follow Snowdonia National Park,
A tour for animal lovers, in the footsteps of ancient with expert guides to show
the Ugandan, ‘Gorillas in the traders and uncover the the way across leisurely
Mist’ is 12 days, with prices diverse history and walking trails, from Llyn
from £5,439. This will feature architecture of cities like Idwal Lake to the village of Island, but to discover their inner
getting personal with gorillas Tashkent and Samarkand, Beddgelert and a trip on the 007 by sea-canoeing around the
in the Impenetrable Forest, one of the oldest Welsh Highland Railway. island, visiting ‘The Monkey
and driving across the metropolises in Central Asia. Just You’s latest brochure Temple’ where lies a 15-metre gold
African savannah in search New tours in Europe has over 200 holidays to Buddha statue. This is followed by
of tree-climbing lions. include the 13-day more than 60 countries, a ‘dine at sea’ experience at the
On the operator’s Ethiopia ‘Ultimate Italy’, from with each one tailored to local floating village Koh Panyee.
tour, customers will travel to £3,199. Customers will the solo traveller. The James Bond Island Tour
natural landmarks like the discover more of Italy, from For more information, visit starts from £45 per person.
Blue Nile Falls, admire historic the ruins of Pompeii to the www.justyou.co.uk or call To book, visit
cities filled with UNESCO Vatican’s Sistine Chapel, 0800 112 3311 www.kskrabi.rezdy.com
CroisiEurope offers Brexit-busting price promise
CROISIEUROPE HAS announced details of its Brexit price
guarantee. The river cruise operator has pledged not to add any
surcharge or change the price of a booking after it has been
confirmed and full payment taken, for any reason directly related
to negative exchange rate movements as a result of Brexit.
The guarantee will apply to any new holiday booked between
now and October 30, the day before the UK is due to leave the
European Union. All other booking conditions will be unaffected
by this guarantee.
For further information, visit www.croisieurope.co.uk
S02 TB 2709 2019 News 1_Layout 1 25/09/2019 15:27 Page 5
SEPTEMBER 27 2019 | travelbulletin.co.uk NEWS BULLETIN 5
A hair-raising Halloween at Universal Orlando Savings galore with
Warner Hotels
HALLOWEEN HORROR Nights
have opened at the Universal WARNER LEISURE hotels is
Orlando Resort, delivering a offering guests savings of up to
unique Halloween experience 50% on many 2020 winter breaks.
for horror enthusiasts. Further added value options are
Guests have the option of available with a free upgrade to a
ten realistic haunted houses, signature room or premier chalet
five scare zones filled with on all January breaks. Plus, agents
scareactors stalking their can pass on ferry travel to selected
every move, live Warner properties for £5.
entertainment – including a These savings are available on
nighttime lagoon show, breaks booked before October 7
“Halloween Marathon of across the entire Warner portfolio,
Mayhem,” plus access to so guests can experience a range
Universal Studios’ attractions. of breaks, from grounds that offer
Throughout the event, a slice of history or picturesque
guests will encounter the coastal views.
terrifying, walking through There are plenty of daytime
scenes such as the Starcourt activities to take advantage of, with
Mall and Hopper’s cabin, Pictures’ classic horror flicks. nightmares - 'Anarch-cade', performances from the world of
from seasons two and three The horror continues as 'Vikings Undead' and 'Vanity music, theatre, comedy and dance.
of Netflix’s 'Stranger Things'; scare actors fill the streets in Ball' - and enjoy two thrilling
come face-to-face with five highly themed scare shows. Academy of Villains
monsters like Dracula, zones such as ‘Zombieland: returns for its fourth year in a
Frankenstein, The Mummy, Double Tap’ and ‘Rob row with the new show,
Wolf Man and more in Zombie Hellbilly Deluxe’. 'Academy of Villains: Altered
'Universal Monsters', Guests can also find States', featuring a mix of
inspired by Universal themselves in three original dance and theatrics.
Competing on the Costa Navarino
ATHLETIC TRAVELLERS and keen spectators and tennis, with the support of the Navarino A three-night stay at
will be descending on Costa Navarino, the multi- Racquet Academy. Bembridge Coast on the Isle of
sport destination of the southwest Peloponnese The event will honour Greek basketball Wight, arriving on January 24,
region of Greece for the seventh annual legend and Olympic torchbearer Nick Galis 2020 starts from £150 per person
Navarino Challenge, from October 10-13. and the event's main ambassador, the Greek- – including the 50% saving. This
The event is open to all ages and features American ultra-marathoner Dean Karnazes, price is based on two adults
more than 30 different sporting activities, who will participate in the half-marathon and sharing standard accommodation
including: boxing; cross-fit; karate, featuring run alongside children on the 1km route. inclusive of the ‘Simply Dine’
world champion Eleni Chatziliadou; For more information on the event, go to package (English and continental
taekwondo, with two-time Olympic silver www.navarinochallenge.com/event- buffet breakfasts and three-course
medalist Alexandros Nikolaidis; kick-boxing; 2019/schedule-2019 evening meals).
Aman to open in bustling Bangkok
HOTEL AND resort brand Aman announced its forthcoming debut
in Bangkok. The Aman Nei Lert Bangkok will be situated in its
central city parkland, nestled in the century-old tropical gardens.
Vladislav Doronin, chairman of Aman, commented: “Thailand
holds a special place in our hearts ever since the conception of
Amanpuri, and our brand, in Phuket over 30 years ago. Aman Nai
Lert Bangkok will be situated in its namesake iconic central city
parkland and will further cement our vision to bring the Aman
ethos to global cities,”
The project will welcome its first hotel guests and residents in 2022.
S02 TB 2709 2019 News 1_Layout 1 25/09/2019 15:27 Page 6
6 NEWS BULLETIN SEPTEMBER 27 2019 | travelbulletin.co.uk
ROW, ROW, ROW YOUR KAYAK Adjust your
altitude in Japan
BAMBOO TRAVEL has SKI TOUR operator Inghams, which
created the opportunity for launched Japan for the upcoming
those visiting Laos to 2019/20 ski season, is celebrating
discover the HinBoun River the Rugby World Cup sporting
by kayak. event with a special offer.
Guests will be cast along For all 2019/20 ski bookings to
the scenic river, surrounded Japan, made during the Rugby
by the Karst Mountains, for a World Cup tournament from now
four- to five-hour paddle to a until November 2, Inghams is
predetermined landing spot, offering £100 off per person.
stopping en-route for a rest Skiers who choose to travel to
and a picnic lunch. Japan with Inghams this winter
The kayaking adventure will benefit from: free lift passes,
can be enjoyed on several of flexible itineraries, transfers and
Bamboo Travel’s meet and greet service, bed-and-
recommended itineraries to breakfast, and free ski carriage.
Laos, including the 15-day, Ski Resorts will include the Hakuba
‘Legends of Laos.’ Valley, which spans across ten
The journey commences accommodation – located in the capital city of Vientiane. diverse ski areas, and Nozawa Onsen.
with two nights in Luang some of the most scenic The holiday can start on Additionally, guests can enjoy
Prabang, before taking a road parts of the country. any day and costs from activities beyond the ski runs,
trip to Muang La – with a The next leg is an overland £3,175 per person (two including the bright lights of Tokyo
night spent in the Muang La journey through the heart of sharing a room). This includes or the tranquility of the temples in
Lodge – and a trek to discover Laos to the Plain of Jars, an 13 nights’ bed-and-breakfast, Kyoto. They can pay respects in
some hill tribe villages. archaeological site dating and all transportation and Hiroshima and visit the Peace
Next, guests will embark back over 2,000 years, and activities as per the itinerary Memorial Museum, or spot snow
on a four-day loop, travelling then a trip to the and guides. monkeys at Jigokudani.
by private boat along the Kammounae Province. For further information call Inghams offers a five-night trip
waterways of northern Laos, The trip finishes with two 020 7720 9285 or visit to Tokyo and Hakuba from £1,869
staying in boutique days relaxing and exploring www.bambootravel.co.uk per person based on two sharing.
A haven of family-friendly fun
HAVEN IS looking forward to 2020 with offers on family UK
coastal breaks. Guests can explore UK shores at a choice of
36 Haven parks nationwide and immerse themselves in the
great outdoors.
Haven will feature outdoor exploration with a packed activity
programme for families, including visits to the rugged coastline
and a chance to view plenty of wildlife with Haven’s ‘Nature
Rockz’ programme that offers adventurers the chance to explore
the outdoors with expert park rangers guiding their way.
There are many activities for children, including sports
coaching from trained professionals, activity sessions including
archery, fencing, football, and aerial adventure courses.
For children that need a confidence boost with swimming,
‘Water Confidence’ sessions and the ‘Learn2Swim’ programme
are available to help with the basics.
Children and their parents can experience outdoor and
indoor activities with the all-action ‘Dragon Lakes Adventure
Village’, a state-of-the-art indoor activity area, ‘The Shore Water
Park’, as well as dining options and entertainment facilities.
Prices for a four-night break start from £69, based on a family
of up to four sharing a standard two-bedroom Caravan at
Reighton Sands, Yorkshire and departing on March 23, 2020.
S02 TB 2709 2019 News 1_Layout 1 25/09/2019 15:27 Page 7
SEPTEMBER 27 2019 | travelbulletin.co.uk
New Sarajevo route from Luton
FLYBOSNIA IS now flying between London Luton Airport
and Sarajevo.
The airline will fly three times a week between the two
airports on a schedule of morning flights departing on
Saturday, Sundays and Tuesdays.
Jonathan Pollard, London Luton Airport CCO commented:
“We are delighted that FlyBosnia has chosen London Luton
Airport as its UK base. This is the first and only direct flight
to Sarajevo to operate from any UK airport in over a decade
so we are delighted to be part of this success.”
Jet2 warms up with a seat sale for Spain,
Portugal, Cyprus, Malta and Turkey
JET2.COM AND Jet2holidays have announced seat savings on
winter sun flights for the 2020/2021 season and put more than 3.3
million seats on sale for next winter from across its nine UK bases.
For Canary Island destinations, this means more than 1.6 million
seats are on sale to the islands of Tenerife, Lanzarote, Gran Canaria and
Fuerteventura, with up to 160 weekly flights. Other Spanish destinations
to benefit from the seat sale include Malaga, Alicante and Majorca.
In Portugal, there will be more than 325,000 seats on sale for Faro
and Madeira, while for Cyprus, winter sun flights to Paphos will be
discounted, and the season to Larnaca will be extended.
For Malta, almost 40,000 seats will be on sale with services
operating from seven UK bases.
As Turkey grows in popularity with British holidaymakers, particularly
in the wake of Brexit uncertainty, the airline has put more than 220,000
seats on sale for flights operating to Antalya.
This programme includes ATOL protected package breaks across
thousands of two- to five-star hotels, a 22kg baggage allowance and
airport transfers included, with a £60 per person deposit.
Steve Heapy, CEO of Jet2.com and Jet2holidays, said:
“Independent travel agents can offer their customers a huge range of
choice and flexibility in winter 20/21, thanks to this fantastic
programme ... With more exciting winter 20/21 announcements
coming soon, independent travel agents will be delighted at the
award-winning choice that they will be able to offer to customers.”
To find out more, visit trade.jet2holidays.com
S02 TB 2709 2019 News 1_Layout 1 25/09/2019 15:28 Page 8
8 NEWS BULLETIN SEPTEMBER 27 2019 | travelbulletin.co.uk
otes from .
Be the cruising king
MANTON.. or queen of the
OR castle in Prague
GUESTS SAILING on dozens of
2020 voyages aboard Crystal
Well, it was down to the big city for me on September 9 for the Ravel and Crystal Mahler can
Travel Bulletin Star Awards – what a fantastic night. The Landmark extend their holidays with an
is a beautiful hotel and, as usual, the meal was fantastic. in-depth exploration of Prague,
Comedian Jo Caulfield presented the awards – I'm not sure as Crystal River Cruises
whether to admit this, but I didn’t have a clue who she was or unveils its “Prague Discovery”
what she did before the event! Congratulations to all those who Extended Land Programme for
won and to the runners-up, you did fantastically well to make the next year.
finals so you’re all winners. I was sitting with Alan Meadows from The three-night immersive
Live Cuba, who is enjoying working with a great company. It was lovely to catch up with programme can be taken pre-
Lindsay Garvey Jones, the national partnerships manager for Holiday Extras – her feet never and post-cruise from
seem to touch the ground. Thank you Travel Bulletin, it was a fantastic night. Regensburg on voyages to
In other news, I noticed that Uluru, formerly known as Ayers Rock, will be closed off to Budapest. The deal includes
climbers permanently. It is a wonder of the natural world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site accommodation at the five-star
as well as a sacred place to the local Anangu people who believe their ancestors' spirits reside Mandarin Oriental Hotel in the
at the rock. This has been debated for years and climbing is due to stop on October 26. heart of the Czech capital city.
Looking ahead to next year, I have set the date for next year’s Yorkshire Travel Ball – it will be
on July 16, 2020. Before that, I am arranging a ‘Love Travel’ party for February 13, 2020, so you
can still go out with your loved one for Valentines Day the following evening.
Email me on s.murray922@btinternet.com if you are interested in a table, half table or
tickets. I think it will be nice to look forward to something in February especially after a hectic
January – it’s called being positive.
by SANDRA MURRAY in Normanton, Yorkshire
Blissful Balinese resort rebranded and upgraded
with extra rooms by the end of the year
Also included is a half-day
FURAMAXCLUSIVE RESORT visit to Prague Castle, allowing
& Villas, Ubud Bali, is the guests to explore areas of the
new name of Furama Villas & palace and grounds not
Spa and FuramaXclusive typically open to the public,
Villas & Spa – as part of this such as Rothmeyer and
rebrand, 18 new villas will be Spanish halls, the Rudolph
ready by December. Gallery, the Throne Hall, the
The villa resort is built Glass and Habsburg salons
amid an expanse of rice and the Golden Lounge.
paddy fields and lush Another, full-day inclusive
greenery, framed by Mount excursion takes guests to the
Batur in the distance. UNESCO-listed Kutná Hora,
Located in Bindu Village, just east of Prague, known as
southwest from the heart of the “city of silver” and the
Ubud, the resort is offering pool, 18 modern villas The spacious new rooms “national treasury” as it was
nature-based retreats. adjacent to a 70-metre are equipped with bath tub, the royal mint under King
Featuring a variety of lagoon with natural spring living area, terrace and Wenceslas II of Bohemia.
styles of accommodation, water, and 18 new modern tropical landscape views. For more information and to
guests can choose from 24 contemporary Premiere They feature a blend of make reservations, call 020
villas with a traditional Rooms, which are due for Balinese traditional and 7399 7604 or visit
Balinese style and private completion in December. modern style interiors. www.crystalcruises.co.uk
S03 TB 2709 2019 News 2_Layout 1 25/09/2019 15:34 Page 9
SEPTEMBER 27 2019 | travelbulletin.co.uk AGENT BULLETIN 9
AGENT TRAINING
AGENTS CAN sign up for the new Palladium
Hotel Group programme, which has been
created to recognise the loyalty of its travel
agent partners in the UK. The programme has
been designed with the goal of providing
agents with tools to help understand and sell
Palladium experiences. Agents can access
member-only rewards, including cash
incentives and hotel nights. Agents can register
at www.travelbulletin.co.uk/travel-gym
THE SOUTH Australia trade website has
launched its training programme, allowing
agents to become certified South Australia
CRUISING AROUND… Azamara hosted a dinner with Cruise Plus by experts. The programme consists of a 30-
Travel 2 in Malmaison, Glasgow. Pictured is Koral Lipton, alongside question, multiple-choice quiz, covering all
Azamara host Nicola Singleton and other event attendees. the key experiences travellers can have while
in South Australia. Once qualified, agents
obtain certification, a South Australian gift,
AGENT INCENTIVES and first consideration for fam trips. All UK
travel agents who complete the SA Experts
Quiz by November 15 will go into the draw to
● AGENTS WHO make a booking to a destination from Travel 2’s win one of five cases of South Australian
Australia & New Zealand 2019/20 brochure between now and October Wine. Register at
14 will be entered into a prize draw, with a chance of winning one of www.travelbulletin.co.uk/travel-gym
two GoPro HERO7 cameras, worth £170 each. A qualifying booking
must include return flights and a minimum of three nights’ ground
arrangements. Additionally, a minimum of £100 deposit per person BOOST YOUR knowledge, by becoming a
must be paid for agents to enter. Full details of the incentive and prizes specialist and certified Barbados Elite Club
are available on www.travel2.com member. Receive a welcome gift for the first
module completed, and top performing
agents will be eligible for additional benefits
including fam trips. Additionally, Barbados
Elite Club members can earn points towards
high street voucher rewards. For more
information about the club and training
modules, go to
www.travelbulletin.co.uk/travelgym
COMPETITIONS!
NEW: Win six luxury chocolate
boxes with Quito Tourism
● LUXURY TOUR operator Carrier is offering agents the chance to win a
place on a sustainability-focused fam trip with Six Senses Hotels.
Taking place in March 2020, the trip will include three nights at Six
Senses Laamu, Maldives and two nights at Six Senses Zighy Bay,
Oman. To be entered into the prize draw, agents must confirm a Win a £100 Majestic wine voucher
minimum of three new bookings during September. The winner will be with Premier Holidays
notified by November 18.
● REGENT SEVEN Seas Cruises is offering agents the chance to be one of
the very first guests to experience Seven Seas Splendor on a three- Deluxe Spa Break for two with
night trade preview sailing with a “Send Us Your Send” competition. To SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment
be in with a chance to win, agents need to download a “luxury
perfected” email template from www.rssc.com/splendorpreview. Once
the template is amended and personalised, agents then send it on to
their luxury cruise customers, generating valuable luxury cruise
business. Finally, to be entered into the competition, entrants need to Win a two night stay in Lucerne
forward their sent message to sdeadman@rssc.com, removing any
client email addresses. The winner will be chosen at random and there
is no limit to the number of entries agents can make. The competition FOR ALL COMPETITIONS VISIT
runs until October 31. travelbulletin.co.uk/competitions
S03 TB 2709 2019 News 2_Layout 1 25/09/2019 15:34 Page 10
10 NEWS BULLETIN SEPTEMBER 27 2019 | travelbulletin.co.uk
Early bird ski deals for Swiss pistes with Inghams It’s Fred’s shout on
selected itineraries
for 2020/21
FRED. OLSEN is offering a free all-
inclusive programme on 75
itineraries for 2020/21. This
includes itineraries to the Baltic,
the Norwegian fjords and cruises
to warmer parts of Europe.
The upgrade is available on
bookings on these selected
itineraries which are made by
October 31. As part of the offer,
guests will be able to imbibe in
selected house wines by the glass,
selected beers, spirits and soft
drinks all day, every day.
“This incentive is perfect for
INGHAMS IS offering a range star Hotel Spinne in For February, a seven-night those who prefer not to fly. In
of deals on a selection of Grindelwald. It is a new year half-board holiday to addition to a hassle-free, no-fly
Swiss ski holidays booked by trip departing from Gatwick to Wengen, staying at the four- departure, guests can sit back,
September 30. Additionally, Geneva on December 28 and star Hotel Silberhorn, will relax and enjoy the many drinks on
a free first class rail transfer priced from £1,508 per person attract a £100 per person offer as part of this all-inclusive
upgrade will be added to based on two people sharing. saving on early bird upgrade, without having to worry
bookings made before There is a £110 per person bookings. This holiday is about a bar bill to settle at the end
November 15, representing a discount on offer for the priced from £1,348 per of their holiday,” said Jackie
saving of up to £126. seven-night half-board trip to person based on four people Martin, sales and marketing
The three trips which will Zermatt, staying at the four- sharing. It departs for Zurich director at Fred. Olsen. “Plus, with
attract the early bird savings star superior Hotel Mirabeau. from Heathrow on February 75 varied itineraries included, from
are for Grindelwald, Zermatt This trip is priced from 22, 2020. All prices include five-night breaks to the stunning
and Wengen. £1,414 per person based on transfers by rail. Norweigian fjords, to longer, 16-
Your clients can save £80 two people sharing. Flights To book, call 01483 938 047 or night breaks to Greenland and the
per person on a seven-night depart Heathrow for Zurich visit www.inghams.co.uk/ Canary Islands, there is sure to be
half-board holiday to the four- on March 14, 2020. ski-holidays something to suit everyone.”
Brook House opens up on the Rivers Edge
RIVERS EDGE, the five-star holiday resort property near the Yorkshire
village of Ingleton, has opened The Brook House, a new restaurant
serving lunch and dinner for guests in the lodges. The restaurant has 17
tables indoors as well as nine tables outdoors and features a menu of
local food including cheese from The Courtyard Dairy in Settle, meat from
Country Harvest in Ingleton, bread from Seasons Bakery in Ingleton and
icecream supplied by Wallings in Lancaster. The bar has Maltsmiths IPA,
Amstel, Birra Moretti and Strongbow berry cider on tap, as well as a
selection of bottled beers, gin and spirits.S03 TB 2709 2019 News 2_Layout 1 25/09/2019 16:19 Page 11
SEPTEMBER 27 2019 | travelbulletin.co.uk PUZZLE BULLETIN 11
WIN A GOODY BAG EACH WEEK!
A
SUDOKU
B
Complete this Su Doku puzzle and then go to the
C
competition section on travelbulletin.co.uk/competitions
and submit the highlighted numbers.
A... B... C... D...
Closing date for entries is Thursday, October 3rd.
Solution and new puzzle will appear next week. D
WHERE AM I?
Terracotta-topped and ready to dazzle, this traditional treasure is what Greek getaways were designed for! New to Jet2holidays for Summer 2020.
Across Down
1. Complete the Jet2holidays trade social media 1. Europe's women golfers recently won this cup at
page name, Partners to ___ (7) Gleneagles (7)
CROSSWORD
5. Amsterdam, Schiphol international airport code (3) 2. Country with the highest population in the world (5)
7. Flows through Nantes (5) 3. Devon city (6)
8. International fashion and lifestyle magazine (5) 4. Capital of Fiji (4)
9. Welsh singer, TV and radio presenter ___ Jones (4) 5. Famous Venezuela Falls (5)
10. Scenic Slovenian lake (4) 6. Actress, ___ Johnston, known for her roles in
13. Capital of the Maldives (4) Brookside and The Royle Family (3)
15. One of the Hawaiian islands (4) 11. Margrethe II is Queen of this country (7)
18. Japanese martial art performed with bamboo 12. Known as the Pink City of Rajasthan (6)
swords (5) 14. The tomb of this Soviet leader is located on Red
19. Capital of Cape Verde (5) Square (5)
20. London Stansted airport code (3) 16. Boise is the capital (5)
21. County bordered by Lincolnshire, Cambridgeshire 17. City birthplace of Beethoven (4)
and Suffolk (7) 18. Popular Dodecanese island (3)
The Jet2Holidays Su Doku winner for
JAIPUR, 14. LENIN, 16. IDAHO, 17. BONN, 18. KOS. Where am I? -Parga
Down: 1. SOLHEIM, 2. CHINA, 3. EXETER, 4. SUVA, 5. ANGEL, 6. SUE, 11. DENMARK, 12.
September 13th is Dawn Hayman from
18. KENDO, 19. PRAIA, 20. STN, 21. NORFOLK.
1 Up Travel in Angus.
Across: 1. SUCCESS, 5. AMS, 7. LOIRE, 8. VOGUE, 9. ALED, 10. BLED, 13. MALE, 15. MAUI,
September 13th Solution: A=9 B=5 C=8 D=6 Solution:
For more games and prizes, please sign up for emails on the jet2holidays trade site and Partners2success on Facebook…S03 TB 2709 2019 News 2_Layout 1 25/09/2019 17:01 Page 12
12 BULLETIN BRIEFING SEPTEMBER 27 2019 | travelbulletin.co.uk
Industry
insight by...
Andy Stark, managing director of the Global Travel Group, encourages agents to utilise
social media & strengthen their online presence in order to build customer loyalty.
BLIMEY, IT’S mid-September members when needed. aspirational pictures – even important customer loyalty.
already – where has the year There can be no doubt better if these shots are from The age old pre- and post-
gone? It won’t be long until how beneficial social the shop’s own staff, on their communications sent to
we’re all rooting around in channels can be. In fact, holidays or from fam trips. customers wishing them a
the loft looking for the having a solid presence Holidaying like a travel agent great holiday and then
Christmas decorations. online is a vital part of the is a much more compelling welcoming them home after
It’s a consequence of marketing mix for retailers. offer for clients. Agents who the trip can work just as well
getting older that time seems To really reap the rewards it engage with their followers via an app or email. Similarly
to pass quicker. Another is an important skill to master to ensure that social activity quick online polls asking your
thing about getting older, if and one that does require is a two-way conversation, database for their feedback
you’re anything like me, is your own investment of time and not just a mouthpiece to on destinations provides you
that you continue to be and engagement. Often, push offers, always yield the with data to use within your
amazed by the pace of stores set up a Facebook best results. marketing. Being able to
technological developments. page and use it simply to post The big social channels are confidently claim that 75% of
Now that summer has deals, thinking this will also brilliant tools to use those surveyed recommend a
officially ended, I’m guessing prompt an influx of enquiries. when it comes to reaching trip to Spain as being good
that the majority of readers value can only strengthen the
will have enjoyed a holiday of social post highlighting the
some sort. In fact, I know that latest deals you want to sell.
to be the case, because the Agents who engage with Right now, in the slightly
team at Global Travel Group quieter booking period before
regularly show me great their followers to ensure that peaks, I’d urge everyone to
examples of envy-inducing reappraise their social activity.
social media posts that our social activity is a two-way Booking patterns this year
retailers are producing. have been unpredictable –
I certainly can’t claim to be
conversation, and not just a perhaps down to Brexit
an expert in the social media uncertainty – but what we do
field. I think I’ve mentioned
mouthpiece to push offers, know is that luxury, cruise and
before how I’m always
looking to up my game in this
always yield the best results. long-haul is still pretty
buoyant. Attracting this
area, though I have to admit business in as many ways as
that I’m still a bit befuddled by possible makes sense, since it
some of the jargon and While one or two bookings out. Savvy advertising, the is where agents can do best
qualifications needed to be a may come your way with this so-called ‘micro-targeting’, financially and show off the
bona-fide influencer. passive approach, the lack of can get your message benefit of their knowledge,
Luckily, there are lots of engagement really is the delivered to exactly the creating a virtuous circle that
incredibly talented people at antithesis of ‘social’. The great people you want to attract, brings in more bookings
Global Travel Group who do examples I get to see are the whether that’s by age, further down the line.
know what they are talking stores that have developed a location, interests or social With luck, you’ll be so busy
about – and are busy handing personality online. Instagram status and pay dividends in you won’t know where the
out advice and helping is a great place to post terms of building that all- next year has gone too.S04 TB 2709 2019 Star Awards Intro_Layout 1 25/09/2019 10:23 Page 13
S04 TB 2709 2019 Star Awards Intro_Layout 1 25/09/2019 10:23 Page 14
14 STAR AWARDS 2019 SEPTEMBER 27 2019 | travelbulletin.co.uk
A NIGHT FULL OF STARS!
Presenting your Star Award winners of 2019
Passion, drive, support and excellence. with winners thrilled and runner-up’s Star Operators and Supporting Stars –
It’s no exaggeration to say that every deeply appreciative for the incredible with several new and very competitive
finalist in the 2019 Travel Bulletin Star support shown by all travel agents categories introduced for 2019. In this
Awards proved the very embodiment of who had voted for them. very special souvenir issue not only
these qualities. Whether an outstanding In a nod to just how important these can you see if your preferred finalists
operator, dazzling destination or terrific awards are, this year’s star-studded got to take home that much coveted
trade team, they were all welcomed to event was supported by a line-up of Travel Bulletin Star but discover
the travel industry’s most prestigious big-name sponsors who you may also exactly what it means to each of them
awards event as true leaders in their recognise for their exceptional trade to have been chosen by you, along
respective fields; all nominated and engagement: Eurostar sponsored all with some exciting announcements for
voted for exclusively by you. the categories in Star Operators; the 2020 and beyond!
This year marks 23 years of Italian State Tourist Office across Stars It’s clear that among all the winners
celebrating the travel trade’s best and in the Sky; Birmingham Airport for the and finalists, there’s one very important
brightest, however there could be only sector of Star Destinations; Jetset in common factor that ties them all
one winner in each of the 32 categories our Voting Competition (the winners together; and that’s just how incredibly
to climb to the lofty heights and be of which are revealed on the next important travel agents are to them and
named your ‘Star’. These were all page); Gran Canaria who sponsored how they remain at the core of all that
revealed at a glamorous awards the category of ‘Star Luxury they do. It’s a message that resonates
ceremony on September 9 at the grand Operator’; Jet2holidays who brought strongly with the Travel Bulletin team
Landmark Hotel in London with our an added sparkle to the evening with too and we would like to extend a huge
special guest MC, actress and their glitter team; and made which thank you to all the agents who took
comedian, Jo Caulfield (famous for her brought all the dazzle of the West End the time to consider their star suppliers
appearances on Have I Got News For to our audience. and submit their votes. Though our
You, Mock the Week, Never Mind the Agents voted in huge numbers and awards get bigger and bigger with each
Buzzcocks and acclaimed Radio 4 from all corners of the UK for their passing year, it remains true to its roots
shows) delivering the awards in fine favourites across six industry sectors - and in its representation of who you
style. It was a night that saw a Star Destinations, Stars of Luxury, deem to be the best in travel. These are
brilliance of stars come up on stage, Stars in the Sky, Stars of Land & Sea, your winners of 2019...S04 TB 2709 2019 Star Awards Intro_Layout 1 25/09/2019 16:48 Page 15
SEPTEMBER 27 2019 | travelbulletin.co.uk STAR AWARDS 2019 15
Guests were wowed by powerful “It’s an amazing
performances and classics from opportunity to be linked
the West End. Jonathan with such a great brand
Mountford from made, said: like Travel Bulletin in
“We sponsored the performance order to strengthen our
tonight and it’s from Wicked to relationship with travel
celebrate 14 years in London. agents. Travel agents are
The success of Wicked, the West extremely important;
End and Broadway musicals is they have means to show
largely down to travel agents. the destination at its best
They have a huge impact and all and are the real experts.”
their ticket sales through us - Ilenia Cocco, Italian State
are commissionable.” Tourist Office
Congratulations to these agent winners in Jetset’s prize draw!
Recognising the incredible contribution from travel agents and the importance of the Star Awards, Jetset have been
stalwart supporters of our annual event for the best part of a decade. When agents submitted their voting forms they were
also entered into Jetset’s competition, with some amazing experiences up for grabs! The winners are:
1st prize - Caroline Adams from Adams Travel wins two tickets to a Practice Day at the F1 Rolex British Grand Prix.
2nd prize - Nikki Martin from Althams Travel picks up a Triple Supercar Driving Blast with High Speed Passenger Ride.
3rd prize - Gaynor Hanlon from Explorer Travel receives two tickets to a Tower Rib Blast.
“The Star Awards are the fillip for me and the company to continue to work hard, ensuring services are top-notch for agents and
their customers. To us, the travel agent is the most important aspect to our business.” - John Bond, Jetset
“As the UK airport with Adding to the dazzle of our drinks reception in
the biggest travel trade the Landmark Hotel’s stunning Winter Garden
team, we have a very were the glitter makeup artists, sponsored by
strong relationship with the Jet2holidays. Head of trade Alan Cross said:
trade - when they succeed, “It's fantastic to be at these awards
we succeed. The Star because it’s the travel agents who decide,
Awards are voted for by the and they make Jet2 what it is. The awards
trade so it means so much themselves have a friendly atmosphere - a
even to be nominated. It’s good mix of pleasure and business – and
always a fantastic evening every award we win means a lot to Jet2, its
and, personally, I love the vitally important because it shows we’re
entertainment.” Catherine doing something right with independent
Reeves, Birmingham Airport travel agents.”S04 TB 2709 2019 Star Awards Intro_Layout 1 25/09/2019 10:23 Page 16
S05 TB 2709 2019 Star Operators_Layout 1 25/09/2019 15:36 Page 17
SEPTEMBER 27 2019 | travelbulletin.co.uk STAR OPERATORS 17
Star Long Haul Operator
SPONSORED BY Winner: Gold Medal
Runner up: Kuoni
Finalists: Funway Holidays,
If Only..., Jetset, Sunset Faraway
Holidays, Travel 2
WE ARE over the moon to have been awarded Star Long Haul
Operator at this year’s Travel Bulletin Star Awards. We never take
an award win for granted and the fact that this has been voted for
exclusively by agents makes it all the more special. A sincere
thanks to each and every agent who voted for us; your support
means the world to us.
At Gold Medal we’ve been helping agents create tailor-made
long haul holidays for almost 50 years, with everything from
scheduled flights, hotels, car hire, tours and excursions. We are
committed to providing the very best products at market leading
prices, complemented by a host of support including training,
marketing and service that’s second to none. And, of course, we
like to reward our agent partners with reward schemes, fam trips,
holiday prizes and more.
As we look ahead to 2020 there’s no slowing down, we’ll be
The award for Star Long Haul Operator of 2019 went to Gold Medal.
unveiling lots of exciting new updates and developments to
Here are the operator’s Gemma Wilks (right) and Hollie Stillion being
presented with the award by Stephen Roby from Eurostar, which proudly further enhance our long standing trade relationships, along with
sponsored all the categories in Star Operators, along with our celebrity a brand new brochure portfolio and perhaps even some
host Jo Caulfield (left). celebrations – we only turn 50 once!
Star short Haul Operator
Winner: Classic Collection Holidays
Runner up: Jet2holidays SPONSORED BY
Finalists: Cyplon Holidays, Inghams,
Olympic Holidays, Typically Holidays
CLASSIC COLLECTION Holidays has been selling luxury
holidays through the UK travel trade for more than 30 years.
We’re very proud of our Travel Bulletin Star Awards as they
endorse our brand and underline our high levels of customer
service to the UK travel trade.
We love to assist agents in finding, and then retaining,
customers who are loyal to their local agent and the Classic brand.
Our reservations team goes out of its way to help agents match a
suitable personalised luxury holiday to their customers’
expectations. It’s the flexibility of our product and the knowledge
of our staff, plus a robust price promise guarantee, that has led to
Classic’s success with agents. Our on-the-road team are available
to train, and to listen to agents. They report back about holiday
trends and what agents expect from Classic. It is the strength of
these relationships, together with treating others (customers,
agents and suppliers) as we wish to be treated ourselves, which
ensures Classic stands apart from its competitors. We aim to offer
a superior telephone service, feature an informative but non- Classic took the crown as your Star Short Haul Operator. From the left and
bookable, level-playing field website, and provide a free phone together on stage are Sarah Ayling, Michelle Baillie, Emma-Lisa Carter-Segui
number for agents and live chat facility. and Elisa Pollina from Classic Collection Holidays alongside Stephen Roby
from Eurostar.S05 TB 2709 2019 Star Operators_Layout 1 25/09/2019 15:36 Page 18
SEPTEMBER 27 2019 | travelbulletin.co.uk
Star Escorted Tours
Operator
SPONSORED BY
What a win for Wendy Wu Tours! Delighted to pick up the award from
Eurostar’s Stephen Roby for Star Escorted Tours Operator was Wendy
Wu’s John Warr.
Winner: Wendy Wu Tours
Runner up: Titan Travel
Finalists: Cosmos, G
Adventures, Intrepid Travel,
Newmarket Holidays, Riviera
Travel, Trafalgar
THANK YOU so much for your votes and support! The Travel
Bulletin Star Awards are incredibly important to us and we
are very proud to have won. In our opinion these are the key
awards, covering every sector of the tourism industry, which
truly recognise and reward the travel industry players who
provide the best products and services. As these awards are
voted exclusively by our high street multiple, independent,
online and home-based agents, the accolade of winning is
truly outstanding.
Entering our 21st year of business, we have launched our
largest collection to date of escorted group and private tours
throughout Asia and Latin America; and are launching our
first river cruise ship this December, the Victoria Mekong.
2020 is a very exciting year for us and we will be working
closely with the trade to ensure the knowledge and
uniqueness of our products are carefully understood while
offering agents consistent rewards and support. We are
proud to be the UK’s largest specialist escorted group tour
operator to China and Japan and we look forward to giving
your customers the best touring experiences in the business
throughout 2020 and beyond.S05 TB 2709 2019 Star Operators_Layout 1 25/09/2019 15:36 Page 19
SEPTEMBER 27 2019 | travelbulletin.co.uk STAR OPERATORS 19
Star UK Holidays Operator
SPONSORED BY Winner: Hoseasons
Runner up: Haven
Finalists: Butlins,
Shearings, Warner
Leisure Hotels
WE’RE ABSOLUTELY delighted to pick up awards for the work
we do, but given the effort we put into helping our partners sell
our breaks it’s particularly pleasing to be recognised by our
colleagues in the trade.
Travel Agents are a key distribution platform for Hoseasons
and give us access to a wider customer database, so it’s great to
know they appreciate what we do for them enough to vote for us.
Nothing beats personal experience when it comes to selling a
product, so we’ve been working very hard this year to get our
agents out on location and to get a feel for the locations they are
offering to their customers.
We work with a very wide agent base, from retail stores to
homeworkers; all of whom have very different ways of working
and need tailored support to give them the best chance of
converting sales of our product. That’s why we always do our
Bringing it back home, the award for Star UK Holidays Operator went to best to listen to feedback and adapt our approach where possible
Hoseasons with Ben and Susie White collecting the award on the operator’s to ensure we’re making it as easy as possible for agents to
behalf from award sponsor Stephen Roby from Eurostar.
incorporate our product into their marketing.S05 TB 2709 2019 Star Operators_Layout 1 25/09/2019 15:36 Page 20
S06 TB 2709 2019 Land and Sea_Layout 1 25/09/2019 10:34 Page 21
SEPTEMBER 27 2019 | travelbulletin.co.uk STARS OF LAND AND SEA 21
Winner: Hurtigruten
Star Expedition Cruise Company Runner up: Celebrity Cruises
Finalists: Fred.Olsen Cruise Lines,
G Adventures, Polar Routes, Silversea Cruises
WE ARE honoured to have been awarded Star Expedition Cruise
Company for the eighth year running.
This year saw the launch of the world’s first hybrid expedition ship,
MS Roald Amundsen, but it’s still exciting times ahead for Hurtigruten
with the introduction of our first ever expedition from a UK port and the
transformation of four of our coastal ships to state-of-the-art hybrid
ships. We are committed to taking your clients on unforgettable
adventures in the most sustainable way, allowing them to fully immerse
themselves in the culture, environment and wildlife of some of the
world’s most remote destinations. It’s great to see that the trade have
confidence in our ability to offer these incredible experiences and with
Cruising in to collect the award for Star Expedition Cruise Company more products and destinations on the horizon, we are enormously
was Hurtigruten’s Russell Cox & Emma Coombs, pictured here with grateful for your unwavering support. Thank you to all who voted for us
our guest MC for the evening, Jo Caulfield.
– we couldn’t do it without you!
Winner: Viking River Cruises Star River Cruise Company
Runner up: Riviera Travel
Finalists: AmaWaterways,
Avalon Waterways, Emerald
Waterways, Uniworld River Cruises
WE ARE thrilled to have again won Star River Cruise company! We’d
like to thank all the agents who not only put us first, but who continue
to support us all year round. We couldn’t do it without you.
Keeping the customer satisfied is what it’s all about, so it’s good to
know that when you book with us you won’t just meet your clients’
expectations, you’ll exceed them.
We also take education very seriously, which is why we give you
every tool you need to get to know our cruises inside out. From
immersive fam trips on the rivers and oceans to online training and
face-to-face training from our on-the-road sales team. Add to that,
competitions, fabulous prizes, regular online HEI! newsletters,
agent-only e-shots, and a dedicated ‘madefortrade’ website and It was smooth sailing for Viking River Cruises as they took the title of
Star River Cruise Company with Andrew Schweitzer and Jenny
you’ve got the kind of working relationship money just can’t buy.
Wade collecting the award.
Thank you again to all those who voted for us – you’re the real stars.
Star Worldwide Attraction
Winner: Walt Disney World®
Resort Florida
Runner up: Universal Orlando Resort
Finalists: Disneyland® Paris, Ferrari
World Abu Dhabi, PortAventura World,
SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment
WALT DISNEY World Resort is a contiguous, nearly 40-square-mile,
world-class entertainment and recreation destination featuring four
theme parks (Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios and
Disney’s Animal Kingdom); two water parks (Disney’s Blizzard Beach
and Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon); 36 resort hotels (26 owned and
A dash of Disney magic appears to go a long way, with Walt Disney operated by Walt Disney World, includes nine Disney Vacation Club
World® Resort Florida scooping the award for Star Worldwide resort properties); 63 holes of golf on four courses; two full-service spas;
Attraction. Natalie Sykes and David Thresh from Disney Destinations
Disney’s Wedding Pavilion; ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex; and
International were there on the night to accept the award.
Disney Springs, an entertainment-shopping-dining complex.S06 TB 2709 2019 Land and Sea_Layout 1 25/09/2019 10:34 Page 22
S06 TB 2709 2019 Land and Sea_Layout 1 25/09/2019 10:34 Page 23
SEPTEMBER 27 2019 | travelbulletin.co.uk STARS OF LAND AND SEA 23
Star Car Rental Company
Winner: Flexible Autos
Runner up: Avis
Finalists: Affordable Car Hire,
Alamo, Driveaway, Your Car Hire
WE ARE absolutely delighted to be awarded Star Car Rental
Company 2019. This is a huge team effort and we cannot
thank our agent partners enough for their loyalty and
continued support.
Engaging with agents is vital and as a trade only broker we
always put the agent first. We work closely with all our
partners and work hard to ensure we offer the support they
need to help them grow their car hire sales.
Flexible Autos offer car hire in over 200 countries
worldwide and at more than 22,000 locations. Our UK call
centre offers a dedicated freephone number for those agents
that prefer to speak to a friendly voice at the end of a phone,
or they can book via our easy to use trade only website.
Feedback is also key! We always listen to our partners and
are constantly looking at ways to try and improve our service
and product. We aim to make the booking process as simple Taking pole position in the category of Star Car Rental Company was
Flexible Autos with the company’s Dean Dexter and Andrea Elwell thrilled
as possible and ensure the clients are getting value for
to collect the award.
money with competitive pricing.S06 TB 2709 2019 Land and Sea_Layout 1 25/09/2019 10:34 Page 24
24 STARS OF LAND AND SEA SEPTEMBER 27 2019 | travelbulletin.co.uk
Star Accommodation-Only Provider
Winner: bedsonline.com
Runner up: Expedia TAAP
Finalists: bookabed.co.uk,
Excite Holidays, Stuba
IT’S A great honour on behalf of the entire Bedsonline team to win the Star
Accommodation-Only Provider award. It serves as recognition from our travel agents who
trust us to book their clients’ holidays on a daily basis.
We are pleased to say that the integration of the three businesses is now complete.
Over the last year we’ve been working hard to create one new and enhanced business
and Bedsonline has increased the number of unique hotels available on its platform by
10,000. Currently 180,000 unique hotels are available and most are directly contracted
under exclusive terms and conditions.
Furthermore, new website features have been released. These include a quotes tool
that allows agents to save and share their own quotes on the platform. The services saved
in the tool can be added to the cart and the reservation confirmed anytime. It’s also
possible to add new services when needed. Access from the booking management
section to the supplier reference for accommodation services is also now enabled and
agents can benefit from a new local expert service included in the cart and linked with the
destination of the selected hotel.
This year’s Star Accommodation-Only This growth has been driven by the renewed focus of our parent company, Hotelbeds,
Provider went to bedsonline.com, a hotly in providing its hotel partners with complementary bookings via its network of travel
contested category that saw Mandy buyers. In particular there has been an increase in signing strategic partnerships with key
Vencatachellum from Bedsonline come to the hotel chains and preferred agreements with channel managers worldwide. Thanks again
stage and accept the award.
for all the hard work from the team and everyone for voting for Bedsonline.S06 TB 2709 2019 Land and Sea_Layout 1 25/09/2019 10:34 Page 25
S06 TB 2709 2019 Land and Sea_Layout 1 25/09/2019 10:34 Page 26
26 STARS OF LAND AND SEA SEPTEMBER 27 2019 | travelbulletin.co.uk
Star Worldwide Hotel Brand Winner: Palladium Hotel Group
Runner up: Iberostar Hotels & Resorts
Finalists: Hilton Hotels & Resorts, Marriott
Hotels & Resorts, RIU Hotels & Resorts,
Shangri-La Hotels & Resorts
THANK YOU! We are so proud to win Star Worldwide Hotel Brand.
Palladium has grown considerably in the UK over the last three years,
thanks to the support of the UK travel industry and our ambassadors. We
would like to thank every one of you for your support and vote.
Palladium Hotel Group is going from strength-to-strength with some very
exciting developments in the pipeline. We have hosted numerous fams
to Mexico, Dominican Republic, Costa del Sol and Ibiza (with even more
to come) as it is important for agents to experience our resorts, in order
Palladium took the prize for Star Worldwide Hotel Brand. We had to help them identify the correct brand and hotel for their customers.
Chris Redfern and Joanne Peters from the Palladium Hotel Group Our agent loyalty programme ‘Palladium Connect’ is a great platform to
there on the night and pictured here with their Star Award. learn more and earn extra commission for any bookings made with us.
Star Specialist Hotel Brand
Winner: AMResorts
Runner up: Caesars Entertainment
Finalists: Disney Resort Hotels, LUX*
Resorts & Hotels, Sandals, Six Senses
WE ARE so grateful to all agents that voted for us in this category. For those who
are new to our collection, each of AMResorts’ luxury properties has its own unique
personality and with seven different brands – from ultra-luxurious to adults-only
and fun-filled family-friendly – there is something for everyone.
With such a variety of brands suitable for all types of travellers, as well as the
fantastic inclusions that customers receive at our resorts, we hope that agents saw
these selling points as one of our winning factors compared to competitors. We are
always looking for ways to thank our travel agents and one way to do this was with
our recent Summer Vibes campaign, where we took over carnival-style at a
selection of cities across the UK with delicious cuisine, refreshing beverages, live
entertainment, face painters and more. If travel agents enjoyed these events as
much as we did, then we’re sure this helped with our award win!
We have plenty of exciting news for 2020, including new hotel openings, trade Wowed to win the award for Star Specialist Hotel
events and more. To keep up to date, like our Facebook page at AMRAgents UK. Brand was Kieron Sellens from AMResorts.
Star Rail Operator
Winner: Eurostar
Runner up: Great Rail Journeys
Finalists: : Railbookers, Rocky
Mountaineer, Venice Simplon-Orient-
Express, Via Rail
WINNING THE first ever Star Rail Operator award was a very special moment
for Eurostar. It’s wonderful to see rail travel receiving such recognition in the
industry, especially when voted for by the agents selling our products.
Eurostar is uniquely positioned to offer a seamless city-centre to city-centre
journey, with unrivalled environmental credentials which are becoming more
appealing than ever to the sustainability-conscious traveller.
As we approach our 25th birthday, we’re excited to be launching VOYAGER,
our new booking portal which will allow contracted UK agents 24/7 access to
Eurostar’s inventory and making it easier than ever to book. To express interest
in VOYAGER please contact trade.contracts@eurostar.com
As a brand new category in the Star Awards, the honour of Huge thanks to all our travel trade partners for your continued support over
being our first ever Star Rail Operator went to Eurostar with
the past 25 years, we look forward to our continued work together as we enter
an elated Stephen Roby proudly showing off their award.
a new era for travel in Europe.You can also read
