Big Fat Agent Wrap
This wrap contains more sales, events and incentives than coffee cups on our desk. And that’s saying something.
Helloworld Travel serves up Exclusive Lounge at the Australian Open
Helloworld Travel are showing the LOVE by ACING it at the Australian Open tennis this year with an exclusive Helloworld Travel branded lounge. You can de-DEUCE for yourself that is it no DOUBLE FAULT that agents and clients are thoroughly enjoying the ADVANTAGE of this SMASHING venue that allows visitors to have a BREAK from the crowds and LET the friendly staff SERVE up ice cool beverages while still watching all the GAME, SET and MATCH action on the big screens.
Ok, we will stop the tennis word play now.
Weekly deals from Intrepid Travel
Save $576 on Intrepid’s 15 day Jakarta to Ubud departing 27 January 2019.
Now $1,729 per person twin-share – was $2,305 per person twin-share – a saving of $576 per person.
Explore miles of empty beaches, steamy verdant rainforests and culture-rich cities from Jakarta to Ubud. On this trip, travellers take a guided walk through Seloliman Nature Reserve’s jungle and rice paddies, climb Mt Bromo in the break of dawn to witness a dazzling sunset over mist-laden volcanoes and Pemuteran Beach. Highlights for the travellers include, cycling through Yogyakarta’s backcountry where they see fields of flowers, the local way of life and get behind the scenes of Java’s local industries from coffee, cocoa and palm sugar to traditional Javanese medicine.
Inclusions: Accommodation, transport, an expert local leader, some meals and most activities.
For more information please visit https://www.intrepidtravel.com/au
Save $570 on Intrepid’s 15 day Kathmandu to Delhi departing 9 February 2019.
Now $1,710 per person twin-share – was $2,280 per person twin-share – a saving of $570 per person.
Embark on an adventure through Nepal and India, to experience rich wildlife, sacred rivers and the birthplace of Buddha. On this trip, travellers will visit key destinations, see the pilgrims in Varanasi, experience a sunrise whilst cruising down the River Ganges on a boat, take a walk down the red sandstone courtyards, through the throne rooms of Agra Fort and see the iconic Taj Mahal.Highlights for travellers include, witnessing the Ghats funeral processions, wafts of smoke and prayer chants, experiencing the life of the locals at a community homestay in the Madi Valley and embarking on a jeep or canoe safari in search of rhino, deer, monkeys and a wide array of bird life.
Inclusions: Accommodation, transport, an expert local leader, some meals and most activities.
For more information please visit https://www.intrepidtravel.com/au
Save $841 on Intrepid’s eight day Best of Chile and Argentina departing 16 February 2019.
Now $2,524 per person twin-share – was $3,365 per person twin-share – a saving of $841 per person.
Travel from Santiago across the Andes to Buenos Aires to enjoy the art, beauty and South American way of life. On this trip, travelers will explore the neoclassical plazas and stylish neighbourhoods in Santiago, trial Buenos Aires cuisine, culture and nightlife, and pass through the Mendoza wine region – whilst trying some of the countries favourite wines on the way. Highlights for the travellers include, taking part in the unique daily routines and duties of a gaucho on a traditional Argentinian estancia and taking a tour of Santiago with an expert leader, through this 500-year-old-city.
Inclusions: Accommodation, transport, an expert local leader, some meals and most activities.
For more information please visit https://www.intrepidtravel.com/au
Save $678 on Intrepid’s 11 day Highlights of Thailand departing 1 February 2019.
Now $2,037 per person twin-share – was $2,715 per person twin-share – a saving of $678 per person.
Journey through the ‘Land of Smiles’ in style on a jam packed trip through Thailand. On this trip, travellers learn new culinary skills and taste delicious local dishes in a Thai cooking class in Chiang Mai, visit the magnificent Friends of the Asia Elephants Hospital, uncover the ancient charms of Sukhothai and pay respects at the memorials by the infamous ‘Bridge over the River Kwai’. Highlights for travellers include travelling like the locals do on an overnight sleeper train and immersing themselves in the wonders of an ancient tribal culture while spending a night in the Hmong Lodge.
Inclusions: Accommodation, transport, an expert local leader, some meals and most activities.
For more information please visit https://www.intrepidtravel.com/au
Save $887 on Intrepid’s nine day San Fran to Las Vegas trip departing 3 February 2019.
Now $2,663 per person twin-share – was $3,550 per person twin-share – a saving of $887 per person.
Explore the rugged and diverse American West from California to Nevada. On this trip, travellers will embrace the great outdoors of America, become immersed in the natural beauty while hiking and exploring through Yosemite falls and explore Jack London State Historic Park. Highlights include lacing up and skating over Lake Tahoe and sampling local wines while gazing out at vineyards during a visit to a Sonoma Valley winery.
Inclusions: Accommodation, transport, an expert local leader, some meals and most activities.
For more information please visit https://www.intrepidtravel.com/au
Insight Vacations EPD – Reminder to Agents
Insight Vacations’ Early Payment Discount finishes on the 31st of January, and Insight is reminding agents that this is your last chance to save your clients 10 per cent on 2019 trips to Europe or the UK and Ireland.
Guests can join Nonna for a traditional southern Italian meal in Alberollo on the 17-day Grand Italy and Sicily itinerary or sample delicious Spanish pinxtos and wines in San Sebastian with a local foodie during Insight’s Easy Pace Spain itinerary.
Insight Vacations offers travellers opportunities to get up close and personal with over 70 unique Insight Experiences which connect them with the local culture.
PONANT extends an invitation to hear about new ships, new destinations and new experiences
Luxury Expedition cruise company PONANT has released dates for its next round of free Information Events, equally popular with travel agents and their clients as it provides an excellent opportunity to discover the unique offerings of PONANT’s fleet and global range of itineraries stretching from polar regions to the equatorial tropics.
Travel agents are encouraged to bring (or send) clients to the function to learn more about PONANT’s fleet of luxury expedition ships, the stylish three masted ‘flagship’ yacht and the extensive range of 7 to 73 night voyages that stretch from the Arctic to Antarctica and include the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Baltic, Russian Far East, North America and South America, Oceania (including Australia’s own Kimberley coast) and Asia.
There is much to hear about – including the maiden season of the brand new ship Le Laperouse in Australian and New Zealand waters, compelling introductory pricing incentives and solo traveller offers.
Some itineraries appeal to clients seeking a luxury small ship cruise in intimate surroundings, while other voyages are more expeditionary. Either way, perfect for inquisitive travellers who enjoy that blend of comfort, style and service along with the stimulation of visiting wonderful, often remote, places.
UPCOMING EVENTS: Numbers are limited and registration is required to secure a place at an upcoming event convenient for you and your clients.
Book on https://au.ponant.com/february-information-events
Presentations commence at 2.00pm and 6.00pm
Please join Mick Fogg and our PONANT Team, where you have the opportunity to ask questions about our unique destinations and some of the experiences you might experience.
|
Exclusive offers available on the day!
Sydney | Kirribilli Club | Monday, 11th February |
Melbourne | Kooyong Lawn Tennis Club | Tuesday, 12th February |
Mornington | The Rocks Mornington Peninsular | Wednesday, 13th February |
Light refreshments and drinks will be served. Please register by contacting PONANT directly on 1300 737 178 or by using this link: https://au.ponant.com/february-information-events
Last Chance to secure Trafalgar’s 10 per cent early bird payment discount
The end to Trafalgar’s 2019 10 per cent Early Payment Discount (EPD) for Europe & Britain trips is looming, with only ten days to secure the best trips at the best price for clients.
This is absolutely the last chance, as this offer will not be extended and this is the final Early Payment Discount on Trafalgar’s Europe & Britain trips for 2019.
The top trending destinations on your client’s wish-list are currently all on offer at the best prices including London, Ireland, Croatia, Spain, Italy and Scandinavia.
With a choice of 116 handcrafted itineraries spanning 220 cities, as well as eight trip styles from fast-paced to leisurely including trips for the whole family – there is something for every kind of traveller.
Excite Holidays Get Educated & Excited About Greater Palm Springs!
Last month Excite Holidays and Greater Palm Springs hosted 28 guests at a VIP agent event in Melbourne.
Hosted at the The Pool Deck guests enjoyed a Palm Springs styled breakfast while Alexandra Sparr from Gate 7 provided an update on Greater Palm Springs, providing attending agents with insider information and tips for how to include Greater Palm Springs in their clients’ US itineraries.
Two lucky ladies (Joanne Langdon from Helloworld and Joanne Tomasi from Aquamarine Conferences & Events) each went home with a prize bag of special Greater Palm Springs goodies and a $250 Endota spa gift card, in keeping with the wellness theme of the destination.
Don’t forget that Greater Palm Springs is a wellness oasis! Perpetual sunshine sets the mind at ease, while the stunning mountain-lined landscape makes hiking, biking and exploring the outdoors an extraordinary experience.
Throw in vast underground aquifers of natural mineral water for the ultimate spa experience, not to mention a bounty of local produce to keep the body nourished, and Greater Palm Springs creates the ultimate destination for a health and wellness getaway.
TTC Weekly Deals
ADVENTURE WORLD TRAVEL
High Artic Explorer
For a limited time your clients can book any 2020 Adventure Canada expedition on board the Ocean Endeavour and Save 15% on the berth cost. Guests can enjoy these savings on the 12 day High Artic Explorer itinerary where they will live and breathe the natural history of some of the planet’s most striking features and discover the cultures and wildlife of the vast and beautiful north. This trip will take guests through some of the most spectacular scenery in Kangerlassuaq, Sisimiut, Ilulissat, Uummannaq Fjord, Karrat Fjord, Qikiqtarjuaq, Northeast Baffin Fjords, Mittimatalik, Lancaster Sound, Prince Leopold & Beechey Islands and Qausuittuq. Starting from $16,109* per person, twin share (discount and return charter flights from Toronto or Ottawa pre-/post-cruise included). This offer is on sale now until 31 October 2019. Valid for travel between 31 Jul 2020 and 22 August 2020. Other departure dates are available, but prices may vary. For more information or to book call 1300 363 055 or visit www.adventureworld.com *Conditions Apply.
TRAFALGAR
Historic Highlights
Your clients can fly to the East Coast of the USA from $999 with Trafalgar’s latest Air Offer. Enjoy this offer in collaboration with the 8 day Historic Highlights tour. Guests will be able to explore a New World and young nation on this journey from Capitol Hill and the home of George Washington, to the bloody battlefields of Gettysburg and a haunted tavern on this exploration of America through Yorktown, Jamestown, Richmond, Shenandoah National Park, Gettyburg, Philadelphia on a round trip from Washington D.C. Starting from $4,094* per person, twin share AND fly from $999. This offer is on sale now until 15 Feb 2019 for select departures between 11 May and 12 October 2019.
For more information or to book call 1800 002 007 or visit www.trafalgar.com *Conditions Apply.
CONTIKI
European Escapade
Special offer: Some say Europe is a rite of passage. We say it’s a life defining adventure and right now your clients can enjoy Europe at a discount with Contiki’s Europe Flash Sale. The 25 day European Escapade takes travellers from London through Paris, Barcelona, Monaco, Rome, Vienna, the Swiss Alps and Amsterdam on this envy inducing trip through the true highlights of Europe.
Starting from $3,945* per person, twin share (discount included). This offer is on sale now until 31 January 2019 for departure between the 25 April and 14 September 2019. Other dates are available, but prices may vary. For more information or to book call 1300 266 845 or visit www.contiki.com *Conditions Apply.
INSIGHT VACATIONS
Best of California
For a limited time only, your clients can fly from $799 return to Canada & North America, when they book in conjunction with selected Insight Vacations’ 2019 USA and Canada trips. This includes the 9 day Best of California itinerary where guests are spoilt for choice in the Golden State as they travel from San Francisco to Los Angeles through Sonoma, Yosemite National Park, Monterey, Santa Barbara and Hollywood. Guests will also choose to revisit the ‘Summer of Love’ in San Francisco with a Local Expert and former hippie at Haight-Ashbury, the iconic district where the hippie counterculture evolved. Starting from $5,494* per person, twin share (including return economy airfares). This offer is on sale now until 15 February 2019, unless sold out prior. Valid on select departures only: 26 April – 21 June and 13 September – 4 October 2019. Other departure dates available however prices will vary. For more information or to book call 1300 727 767 or visit www.insightvacations.com *Conditions Apply.
AAT KINGS
Outback Adventure
Clients can explore the best of Australia and New Zealand with AAT Kings Great Australian Sale and save up to $1300 per couple on one of ten handpicked itineraries. One such itinerary is the 10 day Tasmanian Wonders where guests will discover the untamed natural paradise that is the island state of Tasmania on a round trip from Hobart through Queenstown, Stahan, Cradle Mountain, Smithton, Launceston, St Helens, Bicheno , Freycinet National Park and Port Arthur. Starting from $2,995* per person, twin share (discount included). This offer is on sale now until 15 March 2019 for select itineraries and departures before 31 December 2019. For more information or to book call 1300 556 100 or visit www.aatkings.com *Conditions Apply.
UNIWORLD
Remarkable Rhine & Historic Holland
A world of luxury awaits your clients with the most all-inclusive river cruise finely tailored just for them. Uniworld’s Our Best Offer promotion has been extended! Save up to 30% on select 2019 sailings when you book before 31 March 2019. Guests can enjoy these savings on the 11 day Remarkable Rhine & Historic Holland luxury river cruise where they will explore Europe’s rich history and Jewish heritage on an incredible discovery of The Netherlands, Germany, France and Switzerland as they travel from Amsterdam to Basel through Zaandam, Rotterdam, Cologne, Frankfurt and Strasbourg. Starting from $4,969 * per person, twin share (discount included). This offer is on sale from now until 31 March 2019 for departures on 6 and 16 October 2019. Other departure dates available, prices may vary. For more information or to book call 1300 780 231 or visit uniworld.com *Conditions Apply.
BUSABOUT
Ultimate Turkey Adventure
Save your clients $200 off Busabout’s 15 day Ultimate Turkey Adventure! Turkey is where Europe meets Asia, where the Ottoman Empire flourished, and where the late-night kebab was invented. It’s every traveller’s dream destination. Guests will explore this paradise as they travel from Istanbul through Gallipoli, Canakkale, Troy, Selcuk, Fethiye, Firnaz Bay, Kas, Antalya and Cappadocia and sail the turquoise-clear coast in a traditional Turkish gulet boat, inspect the crumbling remains of ancient Greek cities, and journey through the most jaw-dropping natural wonders that humankind has ever known. Starting from $1899 per person (discount included). This offer is on sale now until 31 Jan for all 2019 and 2020 listed departures. For more information or to book contact http://www.busabout.com or call 1300 287 226. *Conditions apply.
Norfolk Island Country Music Festival Rocking Again in 2019
Taking advantage of a location ‘in the middle of the ditch’, both Australian and New Zealand performers will join once again for the 27th staging of the Norfolk Island Country Music Festival in May 2019.
Norfolk Island comes alive over this week with four major shows, acoustic and country rock sessions and the famous UpCountry bar and party after each show. However, the overall nature of this Festival is always intimate, easy and relaxed.
Australian performers already locked in for the Festival include vibrant instrumentalist, singer/songwriter and CMC Female Artist of the Year 2018, Christie Lamb; 3-time ARIA nominated and multi award-winning vocalist, songwriter and entertainer, Jasmine Rae; ‘knock-about bloke’ with that sound, attitude and personality, Benn Gunn; NeillyRich duo, Matthey McNeilly and Amelia Richards paying homage to the greats of country music and Hayley Marsten, presenting sass and sincerity coupled with pride and humour.
New Zealand acts currently confirmed are Coopers Run’s New Zealand Idol finalist, Ashley Cooper and singer/songwriter Michael Tipping; Jodie Direen, dubbed NZ Queen of Country; Che Orton, performing worldwide for 20 years and named 2017 Personality of the Year at the Texas Sounds International Country Music Awards and Hayley Cole, Entertainer of the Year in New Zealand for the past five years.
The Norfolk Island Travel Centre has announced a 7-night Norfolk Island Country Music Festival package including:
- Return Air New Zealand economy class ‘seat plus bag’ airfare to Norfolk Island
- All pre-paid airline taxes
- Meet and greet at Norfolk Island airport
- Return airport transfers on Norfolk Island
- 7-night twin share accommodation
- 7-day car hire (petrol additional and payable direct)
- Half-day Island Tour
- Complimentary Miniature Golf
- Complimentary A Walk in the Wild rainforest walk
- Bonus Norfolk Island discount shopping card with free gift
The package is priced from:
- $1169 per person twin share ex-Brisbane 18 – 25 May and 21 – 28 May 2019
- $1179 per person twin share ex-Sydney 17 – 24 May and 20 – 27 May 2019
Country Music Passes are priced at $599 (Platinum Package), $410 (Gold Package) and $280 (Basic Package).
Latest 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.