Big fat agent wrap
Hey, agents! To celebrate this very special Friday, we’ve got a cool wrap for ya. Okay fine, we do it every Friday. But that doesn’t make it any less cool.
Switzerland Tourism Kicks Off 2018 Switzerland Travel Academy
Switzerland Tourism has kicked off their 2018 Switzerland Travel Academy, a cutting-edge e-learning program designed to not only equip agents with useful information about the country, but also provide handy tools to help them sell better.
To be a certified Switzerland expert, agents must complete the core modules of the program and pass the final exam. These core modules cover general information about the country, events, experiences and news. For a deeper focus on niche markets such as family holidays and types of accommodation on offer, agents can sign up to the specialisation modules after completing the core modules and exam.
Agents can complete the modules at their own pace, but in order to receive a certificate of graduation, all modules and final test must be completed with flying colours by 31 December 2018.
Top performing certified Switzerland experts will also stand the chance to win one of three prizes, valued at $500 each. They include a Victorinox watch, a Victorinox carry-on suitcase and a Westfield gift card.
Winners will be announced in mid-January 2019. To register, agents need to go to http://australia.switzerlandtravelacademy.ch
Agents can hear more about the Switzerland Travel Academy here.
Personal Travel Managers Follow Crooked Compass to Georgia
Georgia sits at the intersection of Europe and Asia, a former Soviet republic that is fast becoming the next big thing, thanks in no small part to its varied and impossibly beautiful landscapes that include the towering Caucasus Mountains and lovely Black Sea beaches.
TravelManagers was fortunate to have two personal travel managers (PTMs) invited to participate in a recent eleven-day famil of the country, hosted by Crooked Compass.
One of just six famil participants, PTM Di Yates says Georgia was a destination she didn’t know a lot about but was very interested to visit.
“I love what Crooked Compass do with their itineraries,” adds Yates, who is representative for Montrose, VIC, “so I knew it would be an amazing experience.”
The group’s itinerary began in Tbilisi, where they had plenty of time to explore the city’s cobblestoned old town, which reflects a long and complicated history thanks to periods of both Persian and Russian rule.
A cable car ride to the hilltop, fourth-century Narikala Fortress provided a bird’s eye perspective of the city, which was followed by a walk down to the historical domed sulphur bath area and concluded with dinner in a restaurant described by Yates as “a hidden gem”.
One of the highlights of this region was a hike through Okatse Canyon that included a 700-metre suspended walkway that projects from the walls of the canyon and culminates in a viewing platform that hangs right out over the middle of the canyon.
This served as an introduction to the serious hiking part of the itinerary, exploring in the Svaneti region which is home to the not just the highest mountains and glaciers but also the most abiding ancient traditions.
MTA Members ‘forced’ to drink tequila in Mexico
Pictured, MTA – Mobile Travel Agents’ Carine Griffiths, Linda Kjernander, Susan Barton and Kathy Thomaidis hard at work down Mexico way sampling tequila while taking part in an exclusive study tour at the prestigious Grand Velas Riviera Maya in Playa Del Carmen on Mexico’s famous Riviera Maya.
Highlights of the Members’ program included cycling tours and a cleansing ceremony conducted by a traditional Mayan priest at the resort’s famous ‘Agujero Azul’ (Blue Hole).
Cruisefusion Launches Agent Commission Incentive to Celebrate Odysseus
Cruise/tour wholesaler Cruisefusion is offering agents a bonus 2 per cent commission on applicable cruise sales from now until 31 December, 2018 ̶ plus the top selling sales agent for the period will receive a free 7-day Royal Caribbean cruise from Sydney.
This special agent incentive is being offered using Cruisefusion’s new Odysseus live dynamic packaging reservations platform unveiled last month, which allows agents to book a complete fly/cruise/stay travel package for clients and access a range of unique cruise holidays.
Cruisefusion General Manager Geoff Hackett said the new platform had been very well received since its introduction and was proving easy to use and delivering many efficiencies to booking agents.
“Agents are enjoying the benefits of being able to process a cruise, air and hotel booking with live and dynamic pricing in the one platform,” Hackett said.
“This incentive provides an opportunity for agents to earn hundreds, if not thousands of dollars, in extra commission and be in the running for the Royal Caribbean cruise to the top sales agent.”
TTC Weekly Deals
LUXURY GOLD
Majesty of the Rockies with Goldleaf Rocky Mountaineer
Clients can enjoy a 10%* Early Payment Discount on 2019 journeys when they book & pay in full by 31 January 2019 and experience the Majesty of the Canadian Rockies with Luxury Gold on the 14 day Majesty of the Rockies with Goldleaf Rocky Mountaineer itinerary. Travellers will take in the majesty of the mountains as they travel in luxurious comfort by road, rail and sea to the most dazzling national parks, glaciers and historic villages of Western Canada and Alaska through Victoria, Whistler, Banff, Lake Louise and Jasper before taking the Award Winning Goldleaf Rocky Mountaineer railway to Vancouver. Starting from $9,810* per person, twin share (discount included). This offer is on sale from now until 31 January 2019 for departure on 12 May 2019 unless sold out prior. Other departure dates are available however pricing may vary. For more information or to book call 1300 727 767 or visit www.luxurygoldvacations.com *Conditions Apply.
ADVENTURE WORLD TRAVEL
Two Rivers Safari
Book before the 24th of April 2019 to save your clients up to $2,910* per person on Adventure World Travel’s 8 day Two Rivers Safari itinerary. Combine an undiscovered gem, the Lower Zambezi, with one of the world’s greatest wildlife sanctuaries, South Luangwa, on this 8-day Safari. Travellers will get to explore the region’s diverse habitats with daily game drives and safari walks with an award-winning guiding team. Starting from $9,999* per person twin share (including discount). This offer is on sale now until 24 April 2019. Valid for select departures taking place between 24 April and 25 May 2019. Other departure dates are available at alternate price. For more information or to book call 1300 363 055 or visit www.adventureworld.com *Conditions Apply.
TRAFALGAR
Scenic Scandinavia and its Fjords
Fly for $999 to Europe & Britain! Your clients can enjoy this offer in combination with the 14 day Scenic Scandinavia and its Fjords itinerary where they will discover the deep fjords, glaciers and islands that line the Scandinavian coastline. This fascinating journey through Denmark, Norway and Sweden begins in Copenhagen and takes guests through Bergen, Geiranger, Lillehammer, Oslo and Stockholm. Starting at a total of $6,549* pp twin share (return economy Air from $999* included). This offer is on sale now until the 31st of October 2018 for select departures between 1 April and 30 November 2019. For more information or to book call 1800 787 878 or visit www.trafalgar.com *Conditions Apply.
UNIWORLD
Remarkable Rhine & Historic Holland
A world of luxury awaits with the most all-inclusive river cruise finely tailored just for your client. Guests can Fly Free to Europe in 2019 on select 2019 European river cruises booked before 7 November 2018 and enjoy this offer in collaboration with the 11 day Remarkable Rhine & Historic Holland itinerary. On this trip they will explore Europe’s rich history and Jewish heritage on an incredible discovery of The Netherlands, Germany, France and Switzerland through Amsterdam, Zaandam, Rotterdam, Cologne, Frankfurt, Strasbourg and Basel. Starting from $6,199* per person, twin share (including return economy airfares). This offer is on sale from now until 7 November 2018 for departure on 2 April 2019. Other departure dates available, prices may vary. For more information or to book call 1300 780 231 or visit www.uniworld.com *Conditions Apply.
AAT KINGS
Outback Adventure
Save 10% on all AAT Kings operated Guided Holidays in Australia when booked and paid in full by 31 January 2019. Clients can enjoy these savings on the 15 day Outback Adventure itinerary where they will discover the legendary Australian outback on a fascinating northbound journey from Adelaide, through the Red Centre and onto tropical Darwin in the Top End. The stunning beauty of Australia’s vast and varied landscapes including the rugged Flinders Ranges, ancient Uluru and Kata Tjuta and the lush wetlands of Kakadu National Park will provide memories to last a lifetime. Starting from $5,531* per person twin share (including discount). This offer is on sale until the 31st of January 2019 for select departures between 1 April 2019 and 31 March 2020. For more information or to book call 1300 556 100 or visit www.aatkings.com *Conditions Apply.
BUSABOUT
Eastern Wanderer
Save your clients up to $183* of Busabout’s 14 day Eastern Wanderer with 10% off select Adventures booked before the 16th of November. This is a trip for those who truly appreciate beauty. Over two weeks, they’ll have more jaw-dropping photo ops than they can imagine and induce some serious jealousy from those unlucky enough to be stuck back at home. The grand palaces of Vienna, the fairy tale architecture of Krakow, the sunrise over Budapest, the crystal-clear waters and ancient Old Town of Split – throw all that together with some epic nights of revelry in the hippest bars and clubs and they’ll be experiencing one hell of an adventure! Starting from $1,646* per person twin share (including discount). This offer is on sale from now until the 16th of November for travel dates between the 14th of May and the 30th of September 2019. For more information or to book contact www.busabout.com or call 1300 287 226. *Conditions apply.
CONTIKI
No Stone Left Unturned
Why wait to see what 2019 brings, when you can make sure it brings the goods? Lock in a Europe Summer trip now and you can get 10% off. Sip cocktails in the Amalfi, watch the sunset on a private boat in Croatia and watch the Eiffel Tower light up at night next year. Travellers can enjoy these savings on Contiki’s 25 Day European Quest as they head anti-clockwise around Europe on this adventure from London, through Paris, Barcelona, Florence, Rome, Prague, Berlin and Amsterdam. This is the trip to get your clients to all the noteworthy European locations and tick some absolutely stellar highlights off their bucket list such as Big Ben, The Eifel Tower, La Rambla, The Florence Duomo and The Colosseum. Starting from $3,846* per person twin share (including discount). This offer is on sale from now until the 31st of January 2019. Price reflective of select departure dates available between 29 March 2019- 13 March 2020. For more information or to book call 1300 266 845 or visit www.contiki.com *Conditions Apply.
U BY UNIWORLD
The Danube Flow
Save your clients 10% when they book and pay in full by 31 October with U by Uniworld’s early booking savings. Travellers can enjoy these savings on the 8 day The Danube Flow river cruise itinerary. They will be able to wander through the highest density of pubs and bars in Germany, discover Austria’s Wachau Valley, and explore the lively capital of Hungary on this adventure from Budapest to Regensburg through Passau, Linz, Dürnstein, Vienna and Bratislava. Starting from $2,249* per person twin share. This offer is on sale now until 31 October 2018 for all 2019 sailings. For more information or to book call 1300 730 010 or visit www.ubyuniworld.com *Conditions apply.
Email the Travel Weekly team at traveldesk@travelweekly.com.au
agent wrapLatest News
Holland America Line gives agents the chance to visit Alaska on 11-day Famil
If you've ever wanted to see a Polar Bear (and who doesn't?), now is your time.
More than 65 luxury agents gather in Sydney for Best of the Best dinner
This looks like a fabulous do. We imagine there may be a few (or maybe 65) sore heads this morning!
Globally-renowned chefs gather for Vivid Food 2024
As a human, we agree that food is a fundamental part of the human experience. Some might say the most fundamental.
Air New Zealand returns to Hobart and Seoul
If you notice an uptick in Kiwis making their way through the Mona, you know why.
European Waterways targets multi-generational families with ‘floating villa’ deal
The jury is still out on whether spending a week on a 'floating villa' with family is a hell or a paradise.
Luxury Escapes launches ‘sail away’ sale
Rest assured, you'll be getting your 'sails' and 'sales' mixed up for the rest of the day.
Rex-owned National Jet Express adds weekly charter between Brisbane and Orange
This is for mining and civil contractors, so please, put your holiday attire away.
Let the games begin. Viking introduces eye-watering benefits for the industry’s top 10 advisors
Did someone say 'trip to Venice'? Hold my coat, this one is far too good to miss!
Best friends or frenemies? What is the REAL relationship between sales and marketing?
We can all stop fighting over the corner office because our mothers were right - we are all important in our own way.
The Walshe Group Announces Two Key Appointments
What we really want to know is whether they got joint or separate welcome parties.
FAMIL: Agents explore the delights of Mauritius on 7-day tour
Go green with envy as you read this fabulous itinerary! Time to book that second honeymoon.
Hamad International recognised as world’s best airport at 2024 Skytrax World Airport Awards
Hamad airport is so good it is almost considered a destination in itself. Ballina, up your game.
Saudi Arabia highlights tourism investment opportunities at global investment event
Now is the time to start looking at Saudi Arabia if you are not already. There's big things to come.
“Rampant” – Aussies warned as dengue fever cases spike in Bali
Worried about Bali belly? Now you have something else to worry about.
TTC Tour Brand reveals slew of deals across operators including Trafalgar and Contiki
Everybody loves a bargain and you could do lot a lot worse than check out these deals from TTC!
Fiji Airways partners with Porter Airlines in US growth bid
Any initiative that gets more people visiting the delights of Fiji is a good initiative.
Flight Centre launches CruiseHQ – a marketplace exclusively for agents
The cruise industry has surpassed pre-Covid levels so this isn't one to miss!
Feeling festive? Wendy Wu tours unwraps Christmas collection
Get the Christmas hols booked now and avoid spending it with that elderly relative with dubious political views.
OPINION: In a world of screens, we crave experience
If you get feelings of deep shame and regret when you see your screen time, don't worry - you're not alone.
Sun Princess: High-end dining and world class entertainment awaits
If you are a foodie and you are not currently on the Sun Princess, we really have to ask - what are you doing?
YouGov: 2 in 5 Aussies would pay more for a sustainable hotel
If you want to be REALLY sustainable you can go camping. You just might lose the will to live.
“Can planes swim?” – Planes become boats as Dubai Airport is savaged by severe storm
Unfortunately, "can planes swim?" is a real life question and not an opener to a really bad joke...
Explora journeys reveals bespoke outdoor furniture designed by Matteo Nunziati
This is making your plastic table and chairs look really bad now, isn't it?
Bangkok Airways targets growth with renewed Sabre deal
Two stories abut Sabre's growth in one week and its only Wednesday! Watchout world.
PR agency Example wins pitch for InterContinental Sydney
We also went in for the contract but they said that a 'Be Our Guest'- themed TikTok was unoriginal! The cheek.
Norwegian Cruise Line reveals culinary experience aboard Norwegian Aqua
Once again, this TW journalist REALLY regrets writing this before getting lunch.
Signature Queensland hosts luxury tourism event
Known for its tropical beaches and unique wildlife, Queensland also offers luxury.
Capella Sydney recognised in prestigious Travel + Leisure’s 2024 ‘it list’ of best new hotels
You know that 'it girl' at school who everyone wanted to hang out with? Capella is the hotel version of that.
Rex launches 72-hour fare sale with NO school holiday blackout so you can take your kids (if you want to)
Sadly, leaving your children at home whilst you go on holiday is generally frowned upon.
Adventure World offers chance to connect with “heart and soul” of the US
I mean who hasn't dreamed of a road trip around the US?! Go with Adventure World and you're less likely to get lost.
Fiji’s family-owned luxury resort Likuliku Lagoon launches its own app
We were relieved to find out that having a "concierge in your pocket" referred to an app on your phone.
Hawaii: The US’ laid-back front door for Australians
If you needed another sign that you should definitely head to Hawaii - this is it!
Sabre targets Asia Pacific growth with latest hire
Call the Avengers! Sabre continues its bid for world domination with latest hire.
Air New Zealand signs its largest EVER deal for sustainable aviation fuel
Air New Zealand makes huge step towards sustainable travel. We bet it recycles its rubbish properly too.
IHG Hotels & Resorts continues regional growth with Sunshine Coast Holiday Inn
This Holiday Inn looks considerably flashier than some of the ones we have stayed at in our time.
Budget carrier Scoot welcomes first of 9 E190-E2 aircrafts
Here at TW we would like to offer Embraer E190-E2 a warm welcome! It's not easy being the first of the fleet.