We started our weekend early and went on a bender last night, so this wrap comes with a side of squinty eyes and greasy food.

BRAND USA AND AIR NEW ZEALAND LAUNCH TRAINING ROADSHOW, HELPING AGENTS SECURE SPOT ON THE BEST MEGAFAM YET 

To celebrate the launch of Brand USA and Air New Zealand’s MegaFam incentive where Australian travel agents have the chance to win an exciting music-themed ticket to seven fabulous nights in the USA, Brand USA and Air New Zealand is embarking on an exciting road show with five agent training events in Australia from Tuesday 26th June.

Set to be the best ever MegaFam yet as well as the largest trade fam to depart Australia and New Zealand for the US, Brand USA has returned a second time to partner with Air New Zealand to promote both the airline’s experience as well as the diversity of the US for travellers.

Each road show event will train travel agents on the many diverse itineraries which will be featured on the MegaFam, as well as excite them to compete for a spot on the MegaFam. Agents will be taken behind the scenes on a musical experience like no other, with food and drink plus multiple prizes to be won on the night.

Spaces are limited so register now, via one of the below links depending on your location:

Sydney, Monday 2nd July

Brisbane, Wednesday 4th July

If lucky enough to secure a spot on the MegaFam, 60 lucky agents – 30 from each New Zealand and Australia – will initially be split into six groups along with hosts, with each group spending the first five nights exploring exciting itineraries in various US destinations.

For the final two nights, the entire group will come together for a grand finale in Las Vegas for further sightseeing and a chance to share their MegaFam stories and experiences. Each of the six itineraries will carry the theme of USA music which will bring to life each of the diverse destinations.

Agents who register here then sell three return Air New Zealand flights to the USA during the campaign incentive period will be entered into the draws for a chance to win a spot. The incentive runs until 15 July, with upcoming winners announced on 5 July and 19 July. There is no agent participation fee and all winners will be accommodated in their own room. Entrants must be 21 years old as of 16th August.

Qantas Holidays treat Agents to Cartier

Pictured L-R: Anna Caldrmoska and Kaye Gray – Helloworld Travel Belconnen, Sonya Webb – Helloworld Travel Goulburn

Qantas Holidays wowed 30 ACT agents recently, hosting them for an exclusive showing at Cartier: The Exhibition, currently on show at the National Gallery of Australia.

The exhibition, showcasing more than 300 spectacular items, such as loans from royals, celebrities and the Cartier Collection itself was a magnificent backdrop for guests, who enjoyed some bubbles and canapes and heard from Bianca Winataputri, Assistant Curator at the National Gallery of Australia.

Intrepid deals

Save $970 on the 4th August 2018 departure of Intrepid Travel’s 28 day Highlights of Ecuador & Peru adventure.

Discover new heights on the South American adventure from Quito to La Paz. Travellers will kick start their adventure in Quito – one of South America’s most attractive cities, then hike through the Amazon rainforest, view the enigmatic Nazca Lines and take on the classic Inca Trail. This trip will allow travellers to witness some of Ecuador and Peru’s most stunning landscapes, Indigenous villages, attractions and history.

Inclusions: Transport, accommodation, some meals, and activities.

Save $932 on the 7th August 2018 departure of Intrepid Travel’s 12 day Southern Comfort USA adventure.

Was AUD $4,660 per person now AUD $3,728 – a saving of $932 per person twin-share.

Experience real southern hospitality from New Orleans through to Charleston. Travellers on this trip will enjoy the classic architecture, history, music and food that the southern states of the US has to offer. The trip takes travellers through six states and the best of the region’s contrasting cities ranging from the historic settlements of Savannah and Charleston, the mountain town of Asheville and the musical centres of Nashville, Memphis and New Orleans.

Inclusions: Accommodation, transport, some meals and activities.

Save $490 on the 5th August 2018 departure of Intrepid Travel’s eight day Umbrian Discovery.

Was AUD $1,960 per person now AUD $1,470 – a saving of $490 per person twin-share.

Discover the Umbrian region of Italy on a tour from Venice to Rome. On this trip travellers explore the green heart of Umbria, mingle with pilgrims, taste authentic cuisine and see some of Italy’s ancient sites. Travellers indulge in the romance of Venice, take in the history of Gubbio’s medieval town, visit Italy’s second holiest city, St Francis, and discover sites of Rome including the ancient Colosseum and Vatican City.

Inclusions: Accommodation, transport, some activities and some meals.  

Save $385 on the 6th August 2018 departure of Intrepid Travel’s six day Classic Cambodia adventure.

Was AUD $1,540 per person now AUD $1,155 – a saving of $385 per person twin-share.

Get acquainted with the captivating nation of Cambodia by combining the magnificence of the Khmer Empire with lively Phnom Penh. On this trip, travellers kick start their journey with a dinner at ‘Friends in Phnom Penh’ who provide a memorable dining experience with an excellent local cause. Travellers discover the history of Phnom Penh visiting the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and Choeung Ek killing fields. This trip concludes as travellers immerse themselves in the beauty and mystery of Cambodia by exploring the phenomenal Angkor archaeological complex.

Inclusions: Transport, accommodation, most activities and some meals. 

Save $704 on the 29th July 2018 departure of Intrepid Travel’s 22 day Cape Town to Vic Falls Adventure.

Was AUD $3,520 per person now AUD $2,816 – a saving of $704 per person twin-share.

Enjoy a wild African adventure from South Africa to Zimbabwe. Travellers embark on an adventure packed with majestic wildlife, remote desert landscapes, noble tribespeople and natural wonders. On this trip travellers witness the stunning beauty of Cape Town, burnt orange sunsets over Namibia’s Fish River Canyon and a river cruise through Chobe National Park. Travellers will canoe down the Okavango Delta in Botswana, embark on a game drive in Etosha National Park and feel the raw power of Victoria Falls on this journey filled with the very best of southern Africa.

Includes most meals, accommodation, transport and most activities. 

Helloworld says hello to Africa!

(clockwise / L-R around the table) Paula Williams (New England Travel), Sue Warry (MTA Travel), Melissa Anderson (Helloworld Travel Eltham), Michelle Finnigan (Helloworld Travel Dunsborough), Matt Paine (Launceston Travel & Cruise), “V” (standing – Ants Nest ranger/guide), Wendy Jack (Helloworld Travel Belconnen), Jeanie Markham (Travel Designers Canberra), Graham Ware (SAA), Linda Hosking (Helloworld Travel Mandurah).

Eight lucky Helloworld Travel agents recently travelled to South Africa courtesy of Bench Africa & South Africa Airways.

The group started with a stay at the family friendly Ants Nest in the Waterberg area of the Limpopo province. They were able to get up close personal with rhino, giraffe and other wildlife on horseback, mountain bikes and even by foot. They also enjoyed the hospitality & warmth of the owners Ant, Tessa and the whole staff.

Next stop was the Mother City, Cape Town and a stay at the beautiful Cape Grace Hotel in the heart of the Waterfront. They saw all the sights of the area, from the highlights of the city to Cape Point and the Winelands areas.

They ended their adventure in the big 5 reserve of Kapama in the greater Kruger area where they spotted lion, leopard and elephant amongst many other animals.  What a lucky bunch!

Personal Travel Managers Cruise Through Training Day

(L-R) Personal travel managers Lyn Tyson, Maria Furnari, Danielle Goncalves, Beverly Burt, Alma Araullo, Sue Kuti and Teresa Reyes

A total of 27 personal travel managers (PTMs) and representatives from six boutique, small ship and river cruise suppliers came together at Sydney’s Rydges World Square for a day of product training that was described by attendees as an “awesome day”.

TravelManagers’ Executive General Manager, Michael Gazal, says the training days, which are organised by the company’s National Partnership Office (NPO), take place on a regular basis throughout the year.

“We believe very strongly in the benefits that come from providing our PTMs with a steady stream of specialist training, ensuring that they are equipped with the latest information and best business practices,” he explains.

Participating suppliers including Wild Earth Travel, Buffalo Tours and Uniworld were each allocated a 45-minute slot in which to update attendees on their latest product offerings.  Lyn Tyson, who is representative for Pymble, NSW, describes the day as “excellent”.

“The number of suppliers and the length of presentation were both spot on,” Tyson continues, adding that she finished the day with an increased awareness of unique cruising opportunities that she is looking forward to sharing with her clients.

Gazal explains that the product training days are organised by TravelManagers’ seven state-based Business Partnership Managers (BPMs), and each training day has a different focus, with plans already under way for USA & Canada, Luxury Ocean Cruises and Groups days.

“Our BPMs are also responsible for the running of Business Days in all state capitals and a number of regional centres, (which allow attendees to work on the wellbeing and future of their individual businesses), plus an annual state Trivia night and twice-annual State Meetings.”

Gazal adds that the Business Days are run on an informal basis in which the sharing of ideas is encouraged and PTMs bring along best practice examples for sharing, critiquing and refining.  Topics range from how to write a blog to building an Instagram following, and tips and tricks for maximising the use of the front/mid office system.

“It’s important that our PTMs are able to get together in a format that not only enhances their product knowledge, which helps them to provide a better service to their clients,” says Gazal, “but also that we nurture the camaraderie and the practice of mutual help and respect that is an important part of TravelManagers’ culture.”

Danielle Goncalves, representative for Erskineville, NSW, agrees that the training day was both informative and enjoyable, and says she is looking forward to the next one.

“It was an absolutely fantastic day: I loved it!”

MW Tours Japan famil 

Seated- Traci Webb, Lynda Reid, Chriss Perry, Ester Weiss and Leonie Condor
Standing – Yuraki Kato -JAL, Tricia Stevenson, Hayley Cooper, Michelle Barnett and Deb Reilly from MW Tours Reservations

MW Tours recently hosted a famil to Japan in conjunction with JAL, Travel Partners and the Prince Hotels.

The 4-day tour included visits to the Imperial Palace Gardens, Mt Fuji, Hakone, Lake Ashi Pirate cruise, Meiji Shrine and travel on the Bullet train all of which feature in MW Tours Japan brochure.

The group stayed at the Prince Hotels including The Prince Hakone Lake Ashinoko where the majority of the group experienced the Onsen hot springs bath.

Pictured are the group enjoying a Japanese style dinner at the Sunshine City Prince hotel.

Australian Trade Marketing Leaders Among First to Visit Pixar Pier 

Pictured (left to right) with Woody and Buzz in Pixar Pier: Laura Masters (helloworld Travel), Adam Townson (Travel Associates), Monica Lando (Infinity Holidays), Christie Hopp (Infinity Holidays), Michael Cassis (Disney Destinations), Sarah Gerrand (helloworld Travel Wholesale), Vanessa Richards (Excite Holidays). Absent from Picture: Julie Reid (United Airlines).

6 of Australia’s top trade marketing and product leaders were among the first to visit Disneyland Resort in California’s new Pixar Pier late last week. The attendees were the guests of Disney Destinations and United Airlines who hosted the group on a special VIP Famil to experience the new land before it opened to the general public on June 23.

The group, consisting of marketing and product directors and managers from some of Australia’s leading travel brands including helloworld Travel, Infinity Holidays, Excite Holidays and Travel Associates were treated to United Airlines Polaris Business Class on the airlines daily Sydney to Los Angeles and Melbourne to Los Angeles services, before being whisked to Disneyland Resort for a 5day visit which included the chance to experience the thrilling new Incredicoaster. The attraction is inspired by the record breaking Disney-Pixar film, Incredibles 2 and is part of the newly re-themed Pixar Pier where beloved Pixar stories and characters come to life with immersive Attractions, Pixarinspired food, plus exciting entertainment and more.

The participants were blown away by the diversity of the offerings found across the Disneyland Resort including the high-octane thrills of Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! and Splash Mountain, to the mesmerising night-time spectacles of both the Disney Paint the Night Parade, and Together Forever – a Pixar Night-Time Spectacular, part of the Resorts Pixar Fest celebration which is on now until September 3. They were also offered a glimpse of the new Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and Marvel Super Hero Lands on their way to the Resort in 2019 and 2020 respectively.

And to top off the incredible itinerary, the lucky guests were also treated to a behind the scenes look at where Disney Film and TV Magic is often made with a private guided tour of Walt Disney Studios in Burbank, where they got to hold one of Walt Disney’s 26 Academy Awards.

Thai fun was had by 50 Adelaide Agents, thanks to Singapore Airlines and Tourism Authority of Thailand

SQ Adelaide and TAT collaboratively invited Retail Agents across the SA capital to enjoy delicious Thai food in Adelaide’s East End, Lemongrass restaurant on Tuesday the 26th June.

Sherly Handjojo, TAT Marketing Manager highlighted Thai gastronomy, Michelin awarded restaurants from fine dining to street food in Bangkok, as well as new public transportations in Phuket, Chiang Mai and Bangkok. Another key promotion is beyond the big cities; their secondary destinations in focus are Chiang Rai and Trat.

To wrap up, Ashley Schlesinger, SQ Sales Executive announced the Agent Incentive exclusive to those attending the event, with a grand prize including return flights to Bangkok, three night accommodation at Anantara Siam Bangkok and three night accommodation at Novotel Hua Hin Cha-am Resort & Spa.

Helloworld Travel Volleyroos Entertain in Melbourne! 

Pictured above L-R: Ian Clark, Aaron Eades and Joel Crocker from Helloworld Travel Limited enjoying the #HelloVolleyroos Photo Booth.

The Helloworld Travel Volleyroos were up against the worlds best for the final weekend of the 2018 FIVB Volleyball Nations League (VNL). Taking on Brazil, Argentina and Poland, the Aussies were playing on home soil at Hisense Arena in Melbourne in front of family, friends and local supporters from 22 to 24 June.

Helloworld Travel Staff, Agents and their clients joined the crowds across the weekend to show their support for the team, experiencing courtside seats and all the activities surrounding the event including the #HelloVolleyroos Photo Booth. Helloworld Travel mascot Helloroo was also out and about, joining the Australian subs bench on the sidelines and revving up the crowds between points.

Although the Helloworld Travel Volleyroos couldn’t get a win on the board in front of their home crowd, they won plenty of respect with their outstanding performance across the five weeks of VNL. The team will now take a short break before they head off to prepare on the World Championships this coming September in Bari Italy, for which Helloworld Travel has packaged up some unique add-ons for anyone heading over to support the team.

KK Collection MTA Lunch

Pictured (L-R) are Kate Narracott – MTA Travel, Mario Stubbs – KK Collection, Kelly Campbell – MTA Travel, Doug Trenham – MTA Travel, Jonica Paramor – The Unique Tourism Collection, Sue Basedow – MTA Travel, George Cooper – KK Collection, Wendy Allen – MTA Travel and Debbie Gray – MTA Travel.

KK Collection’s founder and owner George Cooper hosted a lunch at Ovolo Inchcolm on Tuesday 26 June for a group of MTA Travel members in Brisbane. 

Over lunch members had the opportunity to learn more about the two KK Collection properties – Kahanda Kanda and KK Beach – both based near UNESCO listed Galle Fort.

George also announced plans to expand Kahanda Kanda with two new suites set to open in November 2018 ahead of Sri Lanka’s peak season starting in December.

AAT KINGS

Tasmanian Wonders

Travellers can Save on Airfares on a selection of AAT Kings best-selling guided holidays. If Tasmania is on your clients must-see list, AAT Kings’ 10 Day Tasmanian Wonders journey offers the ideal introduction to the island state. Combining spectacular landscapes with exposure to rich convict history and gourmet artisan produce, it will take guests to unforgettable locations and ensures memorable encounters. Starting from $3625* per person twin share. This offer is on sale from now until the 31^st of March 2019 for travel dates until the 31^st of March 2019. For more information or to book call 1300 556 100 or visit www.aatkings.com *Conditions Apply.

TRAFALGAR

Spirit of the South

Save 10% when your clients choose to Discover The Real Americas with Trafalgar on the 17 Day Spirit of the South travel itinerary. Travellers will trace Tennessee’s jazz and juke joints and the bourbon and bluegrass plains of Kentucky horse-racing country along this Deep South musical meander from Atlanta, to Asheville, Gatlinburg, Louisville, Nashville & Memphis and then onto The Big Easy AKA New Orleans. Guests will be able to spend the evening at the Muhammad Ali Center with a hosted dinner, join Joe and Esther Carpenter for an evening of true southern hospitality and an opportunity to explore the sights and sounds of two beautiful Natchez estates and delve into the life and foot-tapping tunes of Johnny Cash with a member of his family. Starting from $6,368 per person. This offer is on sale until the 1^st of November 2018 for departure on the 15^th of May and 11^th of September 2019. For more information or to book call 1800 787 878 or visit www.trafalgar.com *Conditions Apply.

ADVENTURE WORLD TRAVEL

Alaska’s Inside Passage & San Juans Cruise

Adventure World Travel is offering fantastic savings on select Alaska small ship departures with UnCruise Adventures. Save up to $490* per person on select 2018 Alaska small ship UnCruise Adventures like for example the 15 day Alaska’s Inside Passage & San Juans Cruise Adventure. This trip goes from Juneau to Seattle, during which you will explore Alaska and Canada’s Inside Passages. Along the way, venture through two UNESCO World Heritage Sites – Glacier Bay National Park and Olympic National Park. Discover native Tlingit culture in Ketchikan, learn about the Gold Rush history and enjoy wilderness kayaking, paddle boarding, skiffing and hiking. Starting from $6,099* per person. This offer is on sale until the 20^th of July 2018 for departures taking place on the 5^th of August and the 1^st, 7^th & 16^th of September 2018. For more information or to book call 1300 363 055or visit www.adventureworld.com *Conditions Apply.

INSIGHT VACATIONS

Italian Escapade

Insight Vacations presents its PREVIEW of 2019 European trips. NOW is the BEST time to Book to get this trip at the lowest price offered for 2019 travel, including Insight Vacations 10% Early Payment Discount. Guests will revel in the riches of Rome and Florence, observe the beauty of the Italian Lakes and mingle with the fashionable crowd on sun-kissed Capri on Insight Vacations 13 day Italian Escapade adventure. Starting in Rome and winding through Tuscany, Pisa, Lake Maggiore, Verona, Venice, Sorrento and Pompeii on this trip your guests can be among the select few to admire the Renaissance Bramante Staircase in Vatican City which is off limits to most people, and also gain VIP access into the Vatican Museums and Michelangelo’s ceiling in the Sistine Chapel. This offer is on sale now until the 9^th of September 2018 and valid for departure dates on the 16^th, 23^rd, 30^th of July and 6^th, 13^th of August 2019. Other departure dates are available however prices will vary. For more information or to book call 1300 727 767 or visit www.insightvacations.com *Conditions Apply.

UNIWORLD

Brilliant Bordeaux

Fly Free to Europe in 2019 with Uniworld. Uncover the proud legacy and heritage of Southwest France as you set sail along three stunning rivers, the Garonne, Dordogne and Gironde, on Uniworld’s 8 day Brilliant Bordeaux – a fascinatingly historical and invigorating journey. Explore the country’s breathtaking backdrops, wines and cultural treasures across the region in Bordeaux, Fort Médoc, Cadillac, Blaye, Libourne and more! Enjoy a 7-night cruise in a Classic cabin on Uniworld’s newest super ship, the S.S. Royale. Lavishly appointed Classic cabins come complete with handcrafted Savoir® of England beds, high-thread count 100% Egyptian cotton sheets and European duvets, and a menu of pillow options. Starting from $5,199 (including return economy airfares) per person, 8 days of an all-inclusive trip, including captivating escorted excursions, services of an experienced Uniworld Cruise Manager and more! This offer is on sale now until the 31^st of August 2018 for departure on the 3^rd of November 2019. Other departures available, prices may vary. For more information or to book call 1300 730 010 or visit www.uniworld.com *Conditions Apply.

CONTIKI

Deep South

USA & Canada is On Sale Now with Contiki – Travellers can save up to $1,315 when they book a 2018-2020 USA & Canada Contiki trip and pay in full before 5 September 2018. Whether they’re looking for urban adventures in iconic cities like New York and San Francisco, or getting off the beaten track and seeing natural wonders like the Grand Canyon and the bayous of Louisiana, one thing is for sure: the experiences are best shared with others. They can save up to $315 off their trip when they book the 13 day – Southern Adventure with Contiki! Travellers will take a venture to the deep south where a distinctly different American culture will lure them in. Deserts and canyons will pleasure their eyes while cowboys and jazz bars liven their nights. Kicking off in LA and ending in New Orleans, Contiki’s Southern Adventure takes you through highlights such as Vegas, the Grand Canyon & Texas and everything in between! Priced from $2,840* per person (discount included) reflective of select departure dates between the 3^rd of October 2019 – 13^th of February 2020. For more information or to book call 1300 266 845 or visit www.contiki.com *Conditions Apply.

Trafalgar Launches Two New #AgentsFirst Incentives Including the Chance to Win a Trip to Southern USA and bring a Friend

As part of Trafalgar’s always #AgentsFirst approach, they are giving agents the chance to Discover the Real America and win two spots (for themselves and a friend) on the Tastes & Sounds of the South trip this November including return flights.

To be in the running, all the agents need to do is watch Trafalgar’s webinar here to discover what’s new for USA and Canada 2019, and answer a simple question for their chance to win.

Also, to celebrate America’s Independence Day on 4^th July, Trafalgar is giving agents the chance to win a box of Krispy Kreme Doughnuts to rejoice the sweet way. All agents need to do is visit the Trafalgar Tribe Facebook page and post their favourite photo or video of their real America experience by 2 July.

There’s no better time to book, with Trafalgar’s Best Price Guarantee for USA & Canada 2019 bookings, and an additional 10% saving if paid in full by 01 November 2018. Plus, secure the best price for summer 2019 with our Europe First Look out now.

Bridget’s luck is (finally) in after she wins a spot on TravelCube’s Arabian adventure

Last year Bridget Walsh was a candidate for Australia’s unluckiest travel consultant. After winning a coveted spot on a TravelCube famil to Dubai she was just 20 minutes from Brisbane Airport – on her way to board her Emirates flight – when her car aquaplaned across the highway and smashed into a concrete barrier.

At the time Walsh was living in Toowoomba, a two-hour drive from Brisbane Airport, and had left home in the dark and in driving rain to make the 2am departure. Instead of been pampered by flight crew she ended up been tended by hospital staff.

“I was actually really lucky because I wasn’t hurt,” she says. “My car was a write-off and I had to go back the next day to prize open the boot and retrieve my bag. But if I had been driving earlier in the day, when other cars were on the highway, it could have been much worse.”

The good news is that Walsh – who now works for Flight Centre Castle Plaza in Adelaide – is finally on her way to the United Arab Emirates after winning a place on TravelCube’s latest Dubai incentive trip.

A total of 10 travel agents secured spots on this year’s trip by selling the highest number of Dubai room nights during April and May. The winners include:

• Bridget Walsh (Flight Centre Castle Plaza)
• Quwat ali Hazara Nejad (Bamyan Air Travels)
• Gina Braga (Braga Travel)
• Kate Innes (CBC Travel)
• Mary Mansour (AM World Travel)
• Elysia Luong (Ananda Travel)
• Jenna Johnson (Travel Associates West Lakes)
• Sharyn Crawford (Allround Travel Centre)
• Susan Wilson (Flight Centre Mackay)
• Eliza Frances Grace (Flight Centre Kinross)

The agents will now travel to Dubai later this year as guests of TravelCube and Dubai Tourism on a luxurious five-day journey that includes return flights on Emirates, five nights’ luxury accommodation and a variety of exciting day tours.

Walsh says she’s not taking any chances with this year’s flight.

“I live in the middle of Adelaide now and I’m only 10 minutes away from the airport. Either way, I’m catching a taxi, just to be on safe side.”

AUSSIE AGENTS BATTLE IT OUT FOR A VIP PEARL JAM EXPERIENCE

Visit Seattle and Hawaiian Airlines have teamed up to offer Aussie agents an incredible incentive with the chance to win an experience of a lifetime – a trip for two to Seattle and access to Visit Seattle’s VIP suite at Pearl Jam’s The Home Shows concert on 10 August, 2018.

The concert is set to be a night to remember, as 100,000 fans from all over the world come together to watch Pearl Jam’s first hometown appearance in five years. Earmarked as the largest headlining concert event in Seattle since the Rolling Stones’ performed in 1981, The Home Shows will spotlight efforts across the city and King County to address the region’s homelessness issue.

While in town, the winner plus a friend, can also check-out the city’s sights, including the latest exhibits at the Museum of Pop Culture, the legendary Space Needle and the iconic Pike Place Market.

The prize includes:

• Two return economy class flights from Sydney to Seattle with Hawaiian Airlines
• Two tickets to be hosted in Visit Seattle’s VIP suite for the Pearl Jam Home Show concert on 10 August, 2018 
• Three nights twin share accommodation in Seattle at a 4-star hotel
• Return airport transfers
• Two CityPASS tickets to see Seattle’s sights

To enter, agents must sell Hawaiian Airlines from Sydney or Brisbane to one of Hawaiian Airlines’ 12 mainland USA cities and log bookings via the official website. One point will be awarded for every ticket sold with an additional point awarded if that ticket includes Seattle. The prize will be rewarded to the travel agent with the most points.

The winner must be available to travel between 8 – 13 August 2018 and the incentive period runs from today – 20 July, 2018. For all the terms and conditions, and to start logging your bookings

Switzerland continues to Impress Aussies!

The 2018 Switzerland Travel Experience took place in Auckland, Melbourne, Adelaide, Sydney and Brisbane over the last week, where about 550 agents were welcomed by the team at Switzerland Tourism AU&NZ along with the 12 visiting Swiss delegates as well as representatives from Swiss International Air Lines and Singapore Airlines.

Apart from being reminded of the various highlights and key attractions of the various partner regions and cities around Switzerland, including the latest campaigns (‘Nature Wants You Back’, ‘Pop-up Hotels’ and ‘Taste My Swiss City’), agents also heard first-hand the many news and updates on the Alpine country.

From new hotel openings to new tours and activities as well as a string of events to look forward to over the summer and winter periods, agents took note of the latest attractions that have been of growing interest to Aussie travellers.

Australian arrivals were at its highest last year recording 323,643 overnights; and the team at Switzerland Tourism is predicting that 2018 figures might just top that given the strong interest. Much of the success is attributed to the ongoing support and efforts of the agents to promote the country.

At each city, the event ended with two agents winning spots on the week-long September famil, an agent winning a Victorinox suitcase and another winning a Victorinox watch.

The Australian winners are:
Famil – Kate Street, Holidays on Location; Sera Paterson, Flight Centre; Clare O’Neill, Phil Hofmann Travel; Danette Stanton, Phil Hofmann Travel; Saskia van den Heuvel, Arivo; Joachim Kaletta, Flight Centre; Jaune Shrives, Flight Centre; and Andrew Garret, Clean Cruising.

Victorinox suitcase – Erin Rapley, TravelManagers; Stuart Ogilvie, Phil Hofman Travel; Kristin Jansson, CIT; and Tammy Dennis, Infinity Holidays.

Victorinox watch – Olivia Burke, JTB Australia; Jodie Schlaeppi, Round about Travel; Gwyneth Liu, AGL Travel; and Timo Bohlender, TravelManagers.

This year agents met with Swiss delegates Christoph Bosshardt from Basel Tourism; Mark Meier from Lucerne and the Lake Lucerne Region; Rayomand Choksi from Mt Titlis; Katarzyna Morgenstern from the Jungfrau Region; Dario Gross of Jungfrau Railways; Renato Julier from Interlaken Tourism; Francois Michel from the Lake Geneva Region; Stephan Neidhart from Zurich Tourism; Andrea Pietsch from the Hotel Ambassador Zurich; Andreas Nef of the Swiss Travel System, Alan Ramsay from Schilthorn; and Janine Imesch from Zermatt Tourism.

OVER 600 TRAVEL AGENTS ‘DISCOVER’ ABU DHABI

This week, a promotional roadshow organised by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) and Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, raised the bar for trade events in Australia by bringing ‘gold leaf-infused’ welcome drinks, a spectacular chocolate model of the awesome Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and unique interactive ways to learn about the capital of the UAE as a potential destination.

The ‘Discover Abu Dhabi’ roadshow kicked off in Brisbane on Monday night and visited Melbourne on Tuesday, with the Sydney event on Wednesday.  All events were sell outs with more than 620 travel agents attending an event over the course of the roadshow.

Mubarak Al Nuaimi, Director of Promotion & Overseas Offices at DCT Abu Dhabi said: “Our aim for the Discover Abu Dhabi Roadshow was do things differently.  Travel agents attend these types of events each week so we had to work hard to stand out, and I think we really did that with our unique presentation.”
Guests were able to meet with key stakeholders from Abu Dhabi, hearing about new developments such as the new Warner Bros World Abu Dhabi theme park, the stunning new Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort and the Serdal Pearl Diving Experience.

Agents were fascinated with the driving experience around Yas Marina Circuit, henna paintings and mouth-watering food.  Phillip Boniface from Helloworld Travel Carlingford said, “Thank you for a very interesting, informative and enjoyable evening show casing beautiful Abu Dhabi.  Great evening, venue, food and beverage and generous prizes”

The Roadshow were held on the following locations

Monday 18^th June                            The Sofitel, Brisbane

Tuesday 19^th June                    Luminare, Melbourne

Wednesday 20^th June                     The Ivy, Sydney at 5:30pm