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Friday29AUG08Issue 8.32F

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IN THIS ISSUE:

ANZCRO Launches NZ4KIWIS

Mainland Cans Central Flights

No Funding for ROT Airport

Scallop Fest Worth Millions

Hard Ice Experts for Franz Josef

DQ True Colours Deemed Successful

Movie Theme for Canberra Floriade

Virgin Blue Developments

Whitsunday Weddings Site

Big Ferris Wheels for Surfers, MEL

Virtuoso Symposium for SYD

Kimberley a Whale Nursery

WildFlower Hotspots Online

Pacific Blue to Enter Fiji Fray

Airline Tonga Grounded

Poly Blue in Profit, Adds Flights

Air Fiji Flights Cancelled

Coconuts Beach Family, Group Fale

Rebuilding Sichuan’s Tourism

A1GP to Chengdu

New Look for Club Med Bintan

Big Spend for Changi’s T1

Changbai Mountain Decoded

Cherry Blossom Tour

Hong Kong’s Olympic Trail

Vietnam Resort Specials

Indochina US$25 Incentives

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Beijing’s Great Wall Express

10% off TrekAmerica Indian Summer

Qantas to Sth America via SYD

Last-Minute Patagonia

Acacia Late Availability Specials

Wilderness Summer Spectacular

Rovos Rail Charter

The Tiger Woods Dubai

Britain Prepares for Olympics

Gecko Early Birds

Photography Cruises

World’s Escorted Journeys

Air NZ Board Challenges Management

Flifo via TXT

Last Space on QM2 LAX-AKL

Oceania 2009-10 Offers 24 Voyages

Princess Fly/Cruise Opportunities

US$1000 Bonus Commission

More Oasis of the Seas Neighbourhoods

Paihia Beach Resort to Re-open

New GM for Aspen Queenstown

New Owners for Awaroa Lodge

Latest TATS Specials

GA Reunion Call

Flight Centre’s Biggest Opens

LAN/Marriott Famil

Club Med Trade Offer

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Escorted JourneysSilk Road ~ South America ~

Indochina ~ Europe ~Arabia and more!

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NEW ZEALAND

ANZCRO Launches NZ4KIWIS ProductANZCRO’s new NZ4KIWISbrochure lists mini-getaways andmini-stays for Kiwis in NewZealand’s major touristdestinations, making it easier foragents to book domestic travel.NZ4KIWIS is ultra competitivelypriced, with one season - one price;it is packaged for agents’convenience so they just add the

flights. NZ4KIWIS offers yourbusiness and leisure options, andincludes two or three nightsaccommodation, car rental plus oneattraction.It can also be extended or expandedwith product from ANZCRO’s NZBook, which offers the largest rangeof NZ product available through onesource. www.brochurenet.co.nz

Mainland Air Cans Central FlightsMainland Air is next week ending its servicebetween Dunedin and Queenstown viaAlexandra, begun last November, because ofa lack of customers.The Southland Times quotes the airline’smanager John Penno as saying low patronageon the 3pw service had “killed profits.”The average flight, a 10-seater Piper Chieftainoperating between Dunedin and Queenstown- stopping at Alexandra when required - wasreportedly less than two-thirds full and “justwasn’t cutting it.”

No Funding for Rotorua AirportEnvironment Bay of Plenty has given noundertaking or commitment to Rotorua DistrictCouncil regarding funding required for theredevelopment of Rotorua Airport to cater fortrans-Tasman services. It had been reported thatthe council was looking for $15 million for theairport redevelopment.Bay of Plenty Chairman John Cronin says theregional council has not made a financialcommitment and the proposed fund does notyet exist.“We therefore can’t and haven’t acceptedapplications for funding and it is highlyunlikely that funds will emerge from thisprocess within the next two years,” Mr Croninsaid.

Queenstown Rafting has been given thego-ahead by the Queenstown LakesDistrict Council to resume rafting on theShotover River after a major slip near theriver’s edge finally fell last week. Theyhad been off the river for seven weeks.

Whitianga Scallop Festival Worth MillionsOrganisers of the Whitianga Scallop Festivalsay their fourth festival will be the best everand should deliver over $3 million to the localeconomy. Tickets for the festival tomorrow soldout in May and around 8,000 people areexpected at the Coromandel beach resort toconsume the 100,000-plus scallops, creativelycooked and matched with Monteith’s beer,Maven wine and local produce.

Hard Ice Experts Hot on TrainingSix senior glacier guides working in FranzJosef have boosted their combined 30-plusyears of guiding experience with the newlyintroduced New Zealand Mountain GuideAssociation (NZMGA) Hard Ice qualification.The accreditation course is a rigorous three-day evaluation relating to hard ice conditions,taking place on the Franz Josef Glacier andincluding assessment on route selection, hazardidentification and mitigation, and rope rescue.The six men can now be classed as Hard IceGuides, and will be joined by another elevenFranz Josef Glacier Guides being supported bythe company to complete the accreditationwithin the next 12 months.Each day, before the first public trip, FranzJosef Glacier Guides inspect the glacier andcut large, safe step-lines and walking tracks.“Our guides are skilled at step-cutting and trackformation, which means that by the time weget customers up there onto the face, we’veassessed the glacier and can guarantee everyminute on the ice will be spent as safely aspossible passing through unique terrain andimpressive ice formations,” says Kerry Walker,Sales & Marketing Manager for Franz JosefGlacier Guides.The range of glacier hiking tours suit all levelsof fitness and ability and includes a Full DayAdventure, ½ Day Experience, Glacier ValleyWalk, Heli-Hike and Ice-Climbing.

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Destination Queenstown says its TrueColours campaign effectively spread theautumn message to Kiwis and encouragedtravel during the autumn months of APR,MAY & JUN.DQ’s general manager marketing, GrahamBudd said a range of measurement toolsdemonstrated the success of this year’scampaign. “Our website measurementdemonstrates a 15% increase in visits overthe autumn months.”

Christchurch based website companyCabbage Tree Creative has created aglobal first – a snow report system forthe Apple iPhone. Installed on an iPhoneor iPod Touch, users can instantly checkweather, road and lift conditions at allthe major New Zealand ski areas.

Awareness of the campaign measuredthrough the Regional Visitor Monitordemonstrated 73% of domestic visitors hadseen advertising for the autumn campaign.A further 10% of domestic respondentsindicated the True Colours campaigninfluenced their decision to visit the regionduring autumn.Statistics New Zealand’s latest figurescomparing June quarters show Queenstownattracted 0.5% more guest nights than it didduring the same period last year comparedto the national figure for the same quarterof -1.6%. This figure represents all visitorsto Queenstown during the months of APR,MAY & JUN.

DQ’s True Colours CampaignDeemed Effective


AUSTRALIA

Movie Theme for Floriade 2008From 13SEP to 12OCT more than one millionblooms will cascade into colour atCommonwealth Park in the heart of Canberra.The 21st Floriade is certain to captivate yourgreen-fingered clients.Inspired by the films that shaped Australia,visitors will see a lavish wedding dress fromMuriel’s Wedding, Australia’s favourite foot-slapping penguin from Happy Feet, thespectacular bus from The Adventures ofPriscilla, Queen of the Desert, Babe’s lovablesheep-herding pig and many more – allemerging from the beautiful garden beds.A special onsite cinema will showcase rare andspecial footage from many years of Australianfilm. Roving entertainers, garden designcompetitions, amazing fashion designed inflowers and educational sessions providingclever backyard tips are all on offer.Your clients can also celebrate Floriade’s 21stbirthday by being part of the first-ever FloriadeNightFest. Visitors can join the party over fivenights with night markets, lantern displays andspectacular lighting throughout the park,among other drawcards. Call your wholesalerfor Floriade ticket details.

Virgin Blue is boosting its WesternAustralian presence from OCT08 withnew double daily flights to Karratha andNewman as well as doubling its Broomeservices. The airline will use its 104-seatEmbraer 190 aircraft on the new routes.

Brisbane Upgrade from Virgin BlueVirgin Blue will unveil a major upgrade of itscheck-in area at Brisbane domestic airport nextTuesday. It includes the replacement of 19check-in counters and baggage belts, most ofwhich have been in use in the terminal for over20 years. Brand new flight information displaysand an improved service desk will also be keyfeatures in the extensive renovation.

Weddings in the WhitsundaysThe newly-launched weddings-related websitewww.weddingswhitsundays.com covers 74Queensland islands that between them alreadyhost more than 1,200 weddings a year.The website is designed to take the hassle outof planning wedding ceremonies withinspirations and ideas conveniently located inthe one online directory. From a barefoot harpist on the beach to a cellistin the rainforest, the site features over 60 ofthe best local businesses in floristry, marriagecelebrants, entertainment, makeup,photography, decorations, music, cake andcatering so couples can plan every detail fortheir special day in a one-stop shop.The website also has a list of 74 tips – one forevery island - to help couples plan for aceremony in the Whitsundays. Practical tipsto ensure the wedding goes off without a hitchinclude researching tide times, stayinghydrated, dressing for the tropical climate andremembering sun safety in the days leading upto the ceremony to prevent a sunburnt bride.The tips also offer handy solutions to giftmanagement, local attractions, relaxation,accommodation and weather conditions.

Surfers Paradise Skywheel ComingThe Gold Coast City Council has given unanimousapproval for the Surfers Paradise Skywheel and a moderncarnival to be set up on the Surfers Paradise transit centresite in November.The 60m ferris wheel, formerly known as the Sea WorldEye, will be open for business in time for the notoriousSchoolies Week and big crowds are expected over theChristmas and New Year period.The Skywheel will be built on the roof of the transit centre,which as part of the deal will get a $12 million makeover,while the adjoining park will be home to a cafe, live snakeshow, circus entertainers and a carousel.The Gold Coast Bulletin says the wheel has a permit tooperate initially through to January 2010.

Southern Star WheelMelbourne’s Southern Star Observation Wheel is takingshape on its Docklands site. The big wheel, which standssome 40 storeys high, now has its 21 passenger podsattached.From November, the Southern Cross will offer champagneflights, catered flights and, although the cabins fit about20 people, they will offer Cupid rides for couples.Operator Fred Maybury, for nine years CEO ofDreamworld on the Gold Coast, even hopes to capture aslice of the wedding market, utilising a 400-guest functioncentre at the wheel’s base.

Queensland Premier Anna Bligh has described thenewly opened A$10 million Ma:mu RainforestCanopy Walkway in Wooroonooran National Park,near Innisfail, a “must-see” tourist attraction. The340m-long treetop walkway is located in thePalmerston Section of the National Park 1km eastof Crawfords Lookout and 27km from the turnofffrom the Bruce Highway. It is 90 minutes drive fromCairns and 30 minutes from Innisfail.

Australia HostsVirtuoso Luxury

Travel SymposiumTourism Australia, workingwith Virtuoso, the invitation-only luxury retail travel group,will host an internationalluxury travel symposium inSydney in APR09. The NTOhas been working withVirtuoso to market Australiaand train and educate 6,000Virtuoso agents throughoutthe Americas about Australiantravel experiences.The 2009 VirtuosoSymposium is expected toattract over 400 travel agents,suppliers, and other travelindustry representatives.


programme (including Kokonutz Kidz Programme) & use of the fitness room.

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$100 FOOD & BEVERAGE CREDIT FREE!!!

*Stay/Pay deal valid for sales to 31 Dec 08, travel to 31 Mar 09 * stay/pay deal can be doubled *F&B credit is per room (any grade) & is valid for sales and travel to 30 Sep 08 *Stay/pay deal is not valid on the 3 bedroom villas

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SOUTH PACIFIC

The Kimberley – A Whale NurseryThe natural wonders of Western Australia’sKimberley region continue to astound. Thelatest discovery is the scale of the gathering ofhundreds of baby whales in Camden Sound offthe coast of Broome. Now regarded as one ofthe world’s biggest humpback whale nurserygrounds, 381 pods were recently foundschooling their calves to feed, ride the tidesand breach.

Wildflower Hot Spotson WA’s Coral Coast

Western Australia’s Coral Coast websitewww.australiascoralcoast.com has aWildflower Hotspots feature for those seekinginformation about wildflowers in the region.The site is regularly updated when differentwildflower varieties bloom in differentlocations and features images andtestimonials.

Pacific Blue to Join Fiji FrayPacific Blue senior manager, HarishChandra, has revealed in Fiji that PacificBlue is planning to launch flights to Nadifrom Auckland starting in November, subjectto government approvals.He told the Fiji Times Online that the airlinehas the aircraft, crew and facilities ready tocommence the flights from 27OCT butneeded time to put the flights on sale.

Further to our 05AUG story, itseems Pacific Blue will indeed bemounting a third frequency fromAKL to Rarotonga, a Sundayservice from 28SEP.

Airline Tonga GroundedAirline Tonga, one of the two airlinesoperating Tonga’s domestic air servicesuspended its operation indefinitely on23AUG, and Radio New Zealand quoted theairline as saying it was related to a disputewith its fuel supplier, and there was hope thatthings would quickly be resolved.MatangiTonga reports that the suddendecision, coming soon after the boom periodaround the Coronation, had left a number oftravellers stranded in Vava’u and Ha’apai. Itis understood that competitor Chatham Pacificwas looking at increasing its flights to pickthem up.Airline Tonga’s shareholders are Teta Tours30%, Air Fiji 30% and Saia Moehau 40%.

Record Profit, More AKL-APW Flights from Poly BluePolynesian Blue Airlines has announced arecord pre-tax profit of NZ$9.18 million forthe 2007-08 financial year, up 71% from lastyear’s pre-tax profit of NZ$5.363 million.Polynesian Blue has also announced it will beincreasing services to and from Samoa as part

of its ongoing growth strategy. The airline willlaunch a new direct weekly flight betweenApia and Brisbane in DEC08, and returnflights between Apia and Auckland willincrease from five to six per week from nextmonth.

http://www.edgewater.co.ck


Air Fiji Flights Cancelled

Coconuts Beach Fales for Families, Small Groups

Air Fiji has cancelled key flights for the pastfive days but has given no explanation otherthan that it is for reasons beyond its control.Passengers have been rebooked onto otherlocal carriers.The airline, which is 51% owned by theTuvalu Government and a Chinese company,has reportedly been affected by the fuel priceincreases and cash flow issues and there is

15% pay cut.Meanwhile, the High Court in Suva has orderedan injunction against an arbitrary 15% pay cutimposed on two Air Fiji Limited employees, acaptain and a first officer.A lawyer representing the pair, who were onindividual contracts, and another two unionisedcaptains, told Fiji Times Online that the courtfound the reduction in remuneration was abreach of contract.talk that all staff had been asked to take a

ASIA

Since it opened morethan 17 years ago,Coconuts Beach ClubResort & Spa facilitieshave evolved andimproved, with theresort now offering fullspa facilities and newlylandscaped gardens.One Beach Fale hasbeen converted intot w o - b e d r o o maccommodation, givingthe resort a second two-Bedroom Beach Falesuitable for families.The resort also has added three interconnectingvillas comprising two one-storey beach villas(Villa Pule and Villa Ali’i) flanking animmense, two-story central villa (Villa Matai).They can be booked separately or together tosuit small groups.The Coco Suites, Treehouse Junior Suites,Overwater Fales and Beach Fales at the resort

remodeling within the past five years.Coconuts Beach Club, Resort and Spa has justextended the Stay 5 / Pay 4 in Treehouse JuniorSuites and Coco Suites that can take up to fourpeople. Sales are now till 30SEP08 and travelis until 31MAR09. Conditions apply, so callyour wholesaler for details and bookings orcontact NZ representatives [email protected] all received a full renovation or

Villa Pule

Rebuilding Sichuan’s TourismThe government of China’s southwesternSichuan province plans to turn areas devastatedby the 12MAY earthquake into a touristattraction. The quake cost Sichuan’s tourismindustry more than US$7.7 billion, accordingto the official Xinhua news agency.The province, known for its pandas and fierycuisine, has been struggling to rebuild in theaftermath of a disaster that killed about 70,000people and rendered 10 million homeless. Somehave put the total cost of reconstruction atalmost US$80 billion.An “experimental tourist zone” would track afault line that runs through Wenchuan countyin the province’s far west and encompass ruins,a memorial in Yingxiu, a museum in Beichuanand a lake created during the tremors atTangjiashan. The provincial tourism chiefZhang Gu says the Wenchuan quake ruinstourist route would demonstrate the protectionof such ruins and the quake survivors’ spirit.Zhang hoped his planned tourist zone, whichneeds approval, would extend into Gansu andShaanxi provinces, helping highlight“biological and cultural diversity.”

A1GP to ChengduThe A1GP World Cup of Motorsport, whichhas staged races in China during the last threeseasons, is heading to a new venue, Chengdu.Round Two of this year’s season will be runon the Chengdu International Circuit 07-09NOV, and proceeds from the event will goto the Sichuan Earthquake Relief Fund.The date for the event means a change to theprovisional calendar for Season Four, as thiswas the date originally set for a race inIndonesia. Now the Indonesian event, whichsees A1GP head there for a third time, movesto a new venue on the 06-08FEB09.

The Ascott Group has transformedSingapore’s f irst post-war modernhighrise office building, the landmarkAsia Insurance Building, into the AscottSingapore Raffles Place.Ascott spent S$60 million on conservationand restoration of the protected building,one of the few remaining highrisebuildings from the 1950s.

New Look for Club Med Bintan Island

Club Med Bintan Island celebrates its tenthbirthday next month with a fresh and upmarketnew look. Located 45km south-east ofSingapore, the 4-Trident resort is one of themost popular in Asia and showcases the bestof Club Med’s new upscale positioning.Its new look is described as eco-friendly EthnicChic and a new room reconfiguration bringsthe 311-room inventory to 198 Superior rooms,94 Deluxe rooms and two Suites. Sixteen ofthe Deluxe rooms have a balcony.“Club Med Bintan Island is a popular seminarand incentive venue and an additional loungehas been created outside the conference roomsto provide an informal break-out space,” saysClub Med’s Kaarin Gaukrodger. Golfenthusiasts have the luxury of playing at theRia Bintan Golf Club, located just next to ClubMed.


Big Spend for Changi’s T1No sooner has Singapore’s Changi Terminal 3opened than the airport has now announced thatit is to spend S$500 million on a big makeoverfor its 27-year-old Terminal 1.The project, to be completed in 2011, will addanother 18,000 sq m of floor space, higherceilings and glass walls to give arrivingpassengers a view of the landscaping outside.Two outdoor gardens will be built for travellerswho wish to have some fresh air.Fifteen more shops and food and beverageoutlets will be added, the departure and seatingareas for waiting passengers will be enlargedand the public viewing gallery will be designedfor better views of the departure hall andrunways. The concourse, gate hold-rooms andfinger piers will be widened to create morespace for passengers to wait or queue. Moreseats will be provided in some of the gate hold-rooms.The improvements will also extend outdoors,where more sheltered space will be built fordeparting passengers being dropped off by taxisand cars.Some 51 airlines like Qantas, Cathay Pacificand British Airways operate out of T1.

Changbai Mountain DecodedChristopher Randal, Acting Calypso AirTeam Manager at Gullivers Holidays, wasthe first to give us the three-letter airportcode for China’s newest airport at ChangbaiMountain, an alpine resort town near theNorth Korean border. He says Amadeuscodes it as NBS.

Blooming Lovely ‘Sakura’ Cherry Blossom TourTravel Japan by H.I.S. is offering a rareopportunity to sample cherry-blossom time, akeystone of Japanese culture, first-hand withjust one departure of its exclusive, original‘Sakura’ (cherry blossom) tour in 2009.Scheduled to depart from Tokyo on 28MARand limited to just 25 people, the 14-day luxury‘Sakura’ tour has been structured to fullyimmerse participants in the country’s uniqueculture with a comfortably paced itinerarydesigned to include many of the sights that sodifferentiate Japan from other destinations.These include a full-day tour of historicalNikko with visits to the Kegion waterfall andLake Chuzenji, Mount Fuji, Lake Kawaguchi,Takayama and Matsumoto Castle, a full-daywalking tour of Kanazawa, travel by bullet trainto Hiroshima and Kyoto.Cultural activities en route include noodlemaking at Hirayu Ootaki, a tea ceremony atKyoto’s Todaiji Temple and the opportunity todon a kimono for dinner at a traditionalrestaurant complete with a ‘Maiko’ dance andmusic performance.

The program also includes three dedicatedcruise components – a Sumida River cruise onTokyo’s waterways, Lake Ashi near Mount Fujiand a farewell dinner on board a traditionalYakatabune dinner cruise on the last day of theprogram.Prices for the 14-day program start fromNZ$6630pp* share twin, inclusive of allaccommodation in four-star hotels, meals asper itinerary, all sightseeing, English-speakingguides and transportation.*Conditions apply. Please note the price does not includeinternational airfares.Call 09-3361336 or email [email protected]

Hong Kong’s Olympic TrailTo celebrate Hong Kong’s involvement in theOlympic Games, the Hong Kong SARGovernment, with permission from theInternational Olympic Committee, has openeda new walking trail, the “Hong Kong OlympicTrail” on Lantau Island. The 5.6km trail runsfrom Pak Mong Village, which contains anumber of heritage monuments, to Mui Wo. Itis suitable for a family outing or for a hikingtrip to appreciate the natural scenery, localculture and heritage.

Hong Kong’s visitor arrivals in JUL08reached 2.7 million, up 10.4% on JUL07.This brings cumulative arrivals for thefirst seven months of 2008 to 16.9million, 9.1% ahead of the same periodlast year. In JUL08, Mainland China wasthe best performing of all long- andshort-haul market regions, with arrivalsgrowing by 19.4% to 1.66 million.

Vietnam Resort SpecialsAdventure World has two new Stay / PaySpecials in Vietnam: choose from a highlandresort or a beach stay.The Evason Ana Mandara Villas & Six SensesSpa at Dalat has a Stay 2 / Pay 1 offer from$148pp share twin including breakfast.Or Stay 3 / Pay 2 at the Six Senses HideawayNinh Van Bay from $1232pp share twinincluding breakfast.New bookings only for sale and travel 01AUG-19DEC08. Call 09-522 5946.

Chrysler 300C Cabs for SingaporeSingapore’s Straits Times reports that the citywill soon be offering luxury taxis. SMRT Taxisis introducing a fleet of more than 100 Chrysler300C taxis with a flag-fall of S$5, which ishigher than that charged for Mercedes-Benzcabs. SMRT is targeting MICE and corporatebusiness, and looking ahead to the opening ofthe casino.

Book Travel Indochinaand Win US$25

Adventure World has seven US$25Amazon e-vouchers to be won.Simply be one of the first seven travelagents to book and deposit a TravelIndochina small group journey in SEP08to qualify for the US$25 Amazon e-voucher, which is per booking, not percustomer. The Amazon e-vouchers will beforwarded once full payment is received.Incentive applies to new bookings onlyfrom 01SEP08. Call 09-522 5946.


Great Wall ExpressVisitors to Beijing will now be able to accessthe Great Wall of China much more quickly,with the inauguration of the “Great WallExpress”, a new train service. The train, rushedinto operation to coincide with the Olympics,halves the time taken to get to Badaling, where10km of the wall has been restored. The one-hour trip costs 17 yuan ($3) for a first classseat, although this still leaves visitors with a15-minute walk to the wall from the station.

THE AMERICAS

Qantas Super Saver Faresto South America via Sydney

Qantas is offering a new routing option on theSuper Saver fares to South America booked inM or K class, as M*SSS and K*SSS fares.Customers wishing to travel via Australia onthe direct service between Sydney and BuenosAires commencing from 24NOV08, may do soat a surcharge of $1000 return. The current farelevels will be still available for customerstravelling on services between AKL and SCL.GDS and www.qantas.co.nz/agents will beupdated with full details.

10% off Indian Summer SpecialBrilliant shades of red, orange and yellow asfar as the eye can see, homemade pumpkin pie,warm sunny days and clear blue skies, allherald the arrival of North America’s “IndianSummer”, at its peak from late September toearly October, and the perfect time for someextended summer fun across USA and Canada.TrekAmerica invites your clients to takeadvantage of their Indian Summer Special toenjoy the autumnal changes of New England’sspectacular coastline and countryside, or someof the most iconic destinations of the DesertSouthwest; including the Grand Canyon andthe Navajo Tribal Lands of Monument Valley.New bookings only, booked by 08SEP08, forany tour departing in SEP or OCT08. Forexample clients can save 10% on the: Canyon& Indian Lands; Native American Lands,Appalachian Trail walk and Canadian ParksWalk, just to name a few.For details phone Adventure World on 09-5225944.

Save on Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula

TrekAmerica has a 20% saving on the 14-dayYucatan Adventure departing Cancun06OCT08. This small group lodging trip visits ancientMayan archaeological sites set deep within thejungle as you travel round trip from Cancun toChichen Itza, Merida, Campeche, Uxmal,Palenque, San Cristobal de las Casa, Chiapas,Bacalar and Playa del Carmen. Trip is nowpriced from $2310.Phone Adventure World on 09-524 5118.

Last-Minute PatagoniaWorld Journeys has last-minute “two peoplefor the price of one” deals at the Rio SerranoHotel in Chile’s Patagonia region. A 3-day/2-night stay is priced from NZ$1375 and 5-days/4-nights from NZ$1840 for two people sharing,including transfers from Punta Arenas, allmeals, open bar, accommodation in Superiorrooms with Paine view, laundry, internetservice, bilingual guides, and a full programof excursions. Trekking, horse riding, sportfishing and excursions by vehicle to exploreTorres del Paine National Park are all included.Offer valid for stays during SEP08.Contact World Journeys.

AFRICA / MID EAST

Acacia Late Availability SpecialsSave 20% on the tour price of these selectedAcacia trips and 2008 departures. Savingapplies to new bookings only, is subject toavailability, and excludes local payment.• Gorilla Encounter, GEN14, departing

11OCT.• South East Adventure, SEA24 and

SEA31, departing 05OCT, 19OCT.• East African Explorer, EAE21,

departing 24OCT, 07NOV, 05DEC.• East African Explorer, EAE29,

departing 16OCT, 30OCT, 27NOV.• South West Safari, SWS19, departing

08OCT, 22OCT.• South West Safari, SWS25, departing

02OCT, 16OCT.• Desert Tracker, DTR19 and DTR25,

departing 04OCT, 18OCT, 15NOV.• Cape Town to Kenya, CTK41, departing

04OCT, 18OCT, 15NOV, 27DEC.Phone Adventure World on 09-522 5941.

Summer SpectacularWorld Journeys has released what they say isa “fantastic value” 9-day Wilderness Safarisitinerary in Botswana, Namibia and Zambia.Valid from DEC to end APR, it’s a time whenplains game are giving birth, opportunisticpredators abound, colourful migrant birdsarrive, and dormant plants come to life.The itinerary covers the Kalahari Desert,Okavango Delta, Kwando River and VictoriaFalls. Accommodation includes the brand newKalahari Plains Camp, and the newly openedToka Leya Camp on the Zambezi River atLivingstone. Priced from NZ$5,335pp sharetwin ex Maun, this includes transfers andtransport between camps, 8 nights’accommodation fully inclusive of all meals,local beverages, and a full programme ofscheduled safari activities.Valid for travel 01DEC08 to 31MAR09,subject to availability.Contact World Journeys.

Rovos Rail CharterWorld Journeys says that a unique sole-charteropportunity is available on a special Rovos Railjourney from Victoria Falls to Pretoria, aboardthe “Pride of Africa” train under steam haulagefor almost the entire journey.Accommodating up to 68 guests in nostalgicluxury, the journey includes game drives inHwange National Park and Matobo GameReserve & Antelope Park; and a visit will bemade to the historic Bulawayo Rail Museum.Departing 05APR09, the 10-day journey wouldbe of great interest to railway preservationsocieties and steam heritage groups.Contact World Journeys.


EUROPEThe Tiger Woods DubaiTiger Woods this week unveiled the masterplan for developer Tatweer’s exclusive golfcommunity, The Tiger Woods Dubai.Al Ruwaya, the first golf course designedby Tiger Woods will also include a golfacademy, a 145,000sq ft clubhouse and a spa.The residential plots will be developed tocreate 22 palaces, 75 mansions and 100signature villas. The palaces will each cover100,000sq ft, while each mansion will have50,000sq ft and a villa will have 30,000sqft.The signature development will also housea Dh600-million hotel, of 90 suites and 14bungalows in sizes varying from 1,600 to9,500sq ft.Scheduled for completion in 2009, theproject is located within Dubailand.The builders have pioneered new techniquesin construction and design to overcome thechallenge they face in transforming 55million square feet of desert into a greenspace that is one and a half times the size ofNew York’s Central Park and almost fourtimes the size of London’s Hyde Park.

VisitBritain and Visit London have unveiledtheir plans to welcome the world as the hostnation and city of the next Olympic Games andParalympic Games in 2012.VisitBritain believes the London Olympicscould benefit Britain’s visitor economy by anextra £2 billion. The NTO’s global network ofoffices will promote the UK as the place forwatching and participating in sport at all levels,for events and for experiences, attractions anddestinations. According to recent VisitBritainresearch, 22% of potential visitors stronglyagree that they are more likely to want to visitBritain in the next few years because Londonwill host the 2012 Olympics. Tourism gains areexpected to come largely from emergingmarkets inspired by increased media exposureand publicity associated with the Games. Itseems hosting the Games makes Britainparticularly appealing for emerging marketsChina, India, Malaysia, Mexico and SouthKorea.

million and 14% of the total – involve watchinga sporting event or taking part in sportingactivities. Visitors from New Zealand live up totheir reputation as ‘sports mad’ with 28%watching or participating during their stay. Sportis also a way of attracting the attention of visitorsfrom emerging markets where year on yeargrowth often exceeds that from more matureeconomies. 16% of Brazilians, 15% ofMalaysians, 14% of Czech and 13% of Russianvisits involve sport – all higher percentages thanthe French, Germans, Japanese and Italians.One in ten visits to the UK from overseas – 4.7

TOURS

Britain, London Prepare for Olympics Gecko’s ‘Earlybird’ SpecialsGecko’s has just released five new brochureshere and is now offering a 10% discount on allfrom 01SEP08.The discount is for all new bookings 01SEP-31OCT08 for travel before 31MAR09 on itsIndia and Nepal, South East Asia and China,Egypt, Jordan and Morocco, Latin America andAfrica programs.

Photography CruisesCruise West has announced eight designatedPentax Photographers’ Cruises for the 2009season. Featuring field events and onboardtutorials, there is no additional cost to guests.Destinations include Mexico’s Sea of Cortes,Panama & Costa Rica, British Columbia,Alaska, and new in 2009, Europe’s DanubeRiver.World Journeys says feedback from guestssuggests the cruises are suitable for bothamateur as well as more skilled photographers.Contact them for dates and rates.

http://dubaitourism.ae


Escorted Journeys 2009World Journeys has just released its 2009 rangeof Escorted Journeys.Marketing Manager Caroline Clegg says: “Wehad a great response to our escorted journeysthis year, and wonderful feedback fromreturning clients on where they’d like to gonext, so are expecting 2009 to be equallysuccessful.“Rather than a repeat of itineraries, we’veadded some new, and tweaked some of lastyear’s to include unique aspects. Destinationsreflect our pick of the ‘hot’ places to go nextyear, including the Silk Road; Morocco,Gibraltar, Spain & Portugal; Canada’s Westincluding an Alaskan cruise; Turkey combinedwith a Croatian cruise; the wonderful coloursof Canada’s Eastern Maritimes in Autumn;Indochina; Iran, Oman & Dubai; and Patagoniawith an optional Antarctic cruise.”Tour escort Chris Lyons explains: “Our groupsize is limited to 24 participants, as we findthat interaction between the escort, the localguides, and the guests works really well toenhance the journey up to this number ofpeople.“We’ve chosen hotels that are generally 4-starand above, and where possible we use smallerboutique properties run by locals, so that youget a better feel for the culture and people ofwhere you are. On cruises we prefer to useoutside cabins and try to use smaller cruisevessels rather than mega-ships. We alsoinclude comprehensive sightseeing with localguides, and many meals, including often aspecial meal at a favourite restaurant of oursfor local flavour!

“We take care of tipping for the group with atipping fund guests contribute to, and are thereto make sure everyone has a seamlessexperience without all the hassles travel insome of these areas can normally bring. Greatfriendships have been formed on our escortedjourneys this year, with some planning to traveltogether again. We’re expecting a good repeatclient rate, which makes it really worthwhilefor agents to get their clients onto one of these

AVIATION

trips, as theyare more thanlikely to wantmore!”The EscortedJourneys 2009brochure isbeingdistributedto agents thisweek.ContactWorldJourneys.

Air NZ Board Challenges ManagementAir New Zealand this week reported a 24%slide in normalised earnings for fiscal 2008 to$197 million, and operating revenue of $4,667million, up 9% on the same period last year.The increase was primarily due to additionaldomestic and long haul capacity and a loadfactor of 79.3%, up 2.8 percentage points. Theairline carried 13.2 million customers in theyear ended 30JUN, up 5.6%.Air NZ Chairman John Palmer said thatdespite only partly recovering the increasein the total cost of fuel, the carrier is in agood position to create and seizeopportunities in both the domestic andinternational businesses. He put that down

to Air NZ’s ability to innovate and adaptmuch more rapidly than its competitors, a net$1.3 billion cash position and a committed andstable shareholder base.Mr Palmer said the airline’s Board has set themanagement team the challenge of looking atfurther new revenue opportunities in thetourism and travel sectors.“We are already having success in areas likebusiness jet interior design and refits, onlinesales and industry training,” he said. “Webelieve that in the current economicenvironment there may be opportunities toleverage our existing competencies andfinancial strength.”

Jet fuel prices will need to stay belowUS$140 a barrel in the coming year if AirNew Zealand is to remain profitable,according to CEO Rob Fyfe. Air NZ is thecountry’s largest user of petroleum,burning 9 million barrels annually, andcosting $1.7 billion this coming year. Fuelaccounted for an extra $300 million ofcosts in the 30JUN08 year, compared tothe previous year.

Air NZ CEO Rob Fyfe warns thatproposed capacity increases on theTasman will “quickly turn the route intoa bloodbath”.Likewise, he expects overcapacity inthe domestic N.Z. market will see atleast one or other player exit soon.He also expects to park up to two B747sagainst the fence by the end of the year,having trimmed capacity andsubstituted the four-engined 747s withsmaller, more cost-efficient B777 twinjets.

Lufthansa has shown formal interest intaking a stake in Austrian Airlines bymaking an 11th hour offer.

Ryanair has beefed up its campaign against high airfares by releasing one millionseats for travel in SEP and OCT for just EUR1 one way (incl taxes and charges).The tickets have to be booked on the Ryanair site by 31AUG.


Paging Dr RopataUnited Airlines and US Airways will cease flyingto Guatemala from 02SEP due to the increase infuel and the reduction of demand. This brings thetotal of carriers that have canned ops to Guatemalathis year to five. The others were ATA, Interjetand Aeromexico.

Cathay Pacific Airways has announcedthat it will be increasing its fares fromAuckland to Hong Kong, China and Asia aswell as to the UK and Europe, effective01SEP08, as a result of high oil prices.Standard return economy class fares toHong Kong, China and Asia will rise by $150with business class fares on these routesincreasing by $450. Return economy classfares to destinations in the UK and Europewill rise by $200, with business class faresrising by $800.

New Delhi’s IGI airport inaugurated itsthird runway, at 4430m the longest inIndia, last week. It is one of the fewairports in Asia with three operatingrunways and the work was completed sixmonths ahead of schedule.

CRUISING

Toll Holdings booked an annual net lossfor the 30JUN year of A$695 million aftertaking into account the adverse effect ofa A$952 million charge related mainly tothe restructure of its investment in airlineVirgin Blue Holdings and a gain on thesale of rail and ferry operations in NewZealand.

Last Space on QM2 from LA to AKLComplete Cruise Solution says space is filling faston the Los Angeles to Auckland sector of QueenMary 2’s 2009 world cruise.The 12-night voyage, which departs 10FEB09 andcalls at Hawaii and American Samoa en route toAuckland, now has only limited interiorstaterooms available, while Oceanview andBalcony staterooms are on waitlist. Fares startfrom $3249pp including taxes and charges.

Oceania World Cruises2009-10 Open for Sale

Cruise Vacations reports thatOceania Cruises has released itsmost diverse cruise collection todate, with 18 distinct itineraries.Regatta, Insignia and Nautica willsail 24 voyages ranging from 10 to40 days in length and featuring morethan 40 overnight port stays.Highlights of the 2009-2010 WinterCollection:• New 10-day Copper Canyon and

Mexican Riviera itinerary sailsround-trip from Los Angeles

• New 40-day Grand Circle ofSouth America sails from BuenosAires to Rio de Janeiro.

Coquimbo, Callo, Salaverry,Manta, Fuerte Amador andFortaleza add new spice to ourroster of South American ports.

• 40-day Istanbul to Singaporevoyage includes Israel and Egyptalong with the best of Turkey,India, Arabia and Asia.Highlights include 3 days inIsrael, Salalah, Muscat, Abu Dabiand 3 days in Dubai; 5 days inIndia to explore Goa, Bombayand the Taj Mahal.

• An enhanced Splendors of DownUnder features overnights in bothSydney and Melbourne.Overnight calls in Asia includeHong Kong, Shanghai, Bangkok,Hanoi, Kyoto, Taipei, Ho ChiMinh City.

Princess Fly/Cruise OpportunitiesComplete Cruise Solution says there is still spaceon Princess Cruises’ fly/cruise fares for cruises exSydney this summer.Itineraries on offer include the South Pacific,Tasmania, Tropical North Queensland, Asia andaround Australia. Interior, Oceanview and Balconycategories are available. Prices include: Cruiseaboard sister superliners Dawn Princess or SunPrincess with return economy class airfares to SYDfrom AKL, WLG or CHC, plus return transfersbetween the airport and ship on day of embarkationand disembarkation.Christmas and New Year departures are availableand filling fast. Fly/cruise fares start from $1795pptwin share, for an 8-night cruise to Tasmania, upto $6799 per person for an epic 42-night voyage toSouth East Asia and Japan to coincide with CherryBlossom season.

Bonus Cruise WestUS$1000 Commission

Adventure World announces that agentscan earn up to US$1000 BonusCommission with Cruise West. Simplybook the Chairman’s Grand Asia cruisedeparting 24NOV08 and earnUS$1000; or the Hidden Treasures ofJapan cruise departing 17MAR,27MAR or 06APR09 and earnUS$500; lastly book the Legends of thePacific, departing 28DEC08 and earnUS$200. Conditions apply.For brochures and reservations callAdventure World on 09-524 5118.

Check Arrivals, Departures via TXTFlightCHECK, a new txt-based flight checkingservice launched this week. New Zealand airtravellers with a cellphone can now txt any arrivalor departure flight number for that day to 8808and receive instant arrival and departure flightinformation - including delays and cancellations.Texts cost 50 cents.Web users can also search for flight numbers orlook at all New Zealand airports’ departures andarrivals online at http://FlightCHECK.co.nzUnlike other flight checking services,FlightCHECK can also be used to summon mostflight information in Australia, the Americas, anda majority of Europe and Asia, so if travellers haveconnecting flights outside New Zealand they cancheck to see if those connections are on time.


ACCOMMODATIONMore Oasis of the SeasNeighbourhoods

In an online presentation, RoyalCaribbean International has revealedmore details of ‘neighbourhoods’aboard the world’s largest cruise ship,Oasis of the Seas.A Pool & Sports Zone will offer fourtypes of pools with attractions for allages, private cabanas, and whatpromises to be Royal Caribbean’s mostimpressive Solarium with fourcantilevered whirlpools, a bistro anda late-night dance club. The SportsDeck in the Pool and Sports Zone willhold the first zip-line at sea (expectedto be offered at no charge), twoFlowRider surf simulators, a nine-holemini-golf course and a sports court.Other features are a Wipe Out Bar andthe casual Wipe Out Café.The other neighbourhood unveiled thisweek is the Vitality at Sea Spa andFitness Center, which will offer newservices and treatments such asKinesis group classes, relaxationrooms and a thermal suite with threecouples’ massage suites and sevenindividual treatment rooms, plus a caféfor healthy snacks and a dedicated spafor kids and teens.The amply equipped Fitness Centerwill provide the latest equipment andclasses ranging from kickboxing toyoga.General bookings for Oasis of the Seasopen on 03SEP.

Paihia Beach Resort to Re-openNavigate Oceania’s collection member Paihia Beach Resort &Spa, Bay of Islands, is set to open its doors again on 14SEPafter an extensive six-month refurbishment.The property has aimed to recapture the essence of privacyand elegance whilst expanding its activities to include a newunique ‘Lifestyle Club’, a first in New Zealand. Also in theoffering are new hot treatment pools combining light therapy,specialised treatment rooms as well as a revolutionary new HairDay Spa.Guest rooms are being upgraded with superior entertaining areaswith large flat-screen TVs and French oak timber flooringcomplete the decor. Individual balconies now have louveredshutters and are extended in size to enhance privacy, with patiospace for private massages. On the pool deck guests can relaxin the latest ‘Dedon’ luxury outdoor furniture and day beds.

Awaroa Lodge in Abel Tasman National Park has newowners. Effective 30AUG08 the new owners will be Barry& Salina Walters of Tirohanga Group Ltd.

INDUSTRY

New GM for Aspen QueenstownGordon Wilson, Chief Executive of the Tanoa Hotel Grouphas announced the appointment of Peter Coppens as theGeneral Manager of Aspen Queenstown effective 18AUG08.Mr Coppens has had extensive hospitality industry experienceboth within NZ and abroad and, with his family, has had anassociation with Queenstown for past 30 years both as aproperty owner and through his employment. Peter especiallywelcomes the opportunity to be part of the Aspen Queenstownteam in such an iconic property in his local neighborhood ofFernhill.Aspen Queenstown is owned and operated by Tanoa Hotelswhich currently owns and operates six hotels in Fiji, one inVanuatu and two hotels here, in Queenstown and Paihia.

The Long Way Down - NZ PremiereMake a date with the telly and a bowl ofpopcorn this coming Sunday! Rememberto watch Long Way Down on Sky’sNational Geographic Channel (Digital 72)at 10.30 pm on Sunday 31AUG.Explore Worldwide and the BBC helpedproduce the epic adventure in which EwanMcGregor and Charley Boorman rode theirBMW motorcycles from Scotland, throughEurope and all the way down Africa to CapeTown.This series shares a rare glimpse of life inAfrica as it is, and how these modern dayadventurers raised and donated UNICEFfunds to various projects in Africa.Long Way Down will inspire you to ventureout, live your dreams and create awesomeadventures of your own whilst making adifference.Adventure World recommends combiningsimilar adventure holidays with Explore’sworldwide Volunteer programmes in Africaand beyond.Call Adventure World on 09-524 5118.

The Latest TATS SpecialsSee www.tats.co.nz for full details on thefollowing deals:

Star Cruises Industry RatesTATS now has industry rates for StarCruises ex SIN & HKG.Prices start from as low as $326pp for a2-night cruise and $506 pp for a 4-nightcruise, inclusive of Port/Fuel Chargesand based on share twin occupancy.

Plantation Island ResortPrices for IATA Travel Agents, Hoteliers& Airline Staff start from $190 forGarden View Room.Validity: 15OCT-20DEC08 & 15JAN09-31MAR09.Prices for ALL Industry start from $225for Garden View and can be combinedwith Stay/Pay Bonus Offers and MealDeal 200.Validity: to 31MAR09.All prices are per room per night basedon share twin/single occupancy.

Vanuatu 4-night PackagesPackage includes Air Vanuatu ReturnEconomy fares and 4 nightsaccommodation.Prices start from $629pp share twin,inclusive of taxes and fuel surcharges.Eligibility: IATA Travel AgentsValid for travel to 31DEC08 – somecloseouts apply.


No matter where you go, you are still you

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Copyright. No part ofthis publication may becopied, reproduced orduplicated, in whole orin part, without theprior written approvalof the Publisher.

Travel

PEARL’S PEARLER

Garuda IndonesiaStaff Reunion 19SEP08

Calling all ex-staff from Garuda whoworked for the airline 1988-2006.A reunion is planned for Friday 19SEP inAuckland to coincide with the 20th

anniversary of the commencement of GAservices to/from AKL. All ex-GA staff areinvited, plus all staff who worked forGaruda Orient Holidays.Email [email protected] or callhim on Mobile 021 227 5739.

Flight Centre Opens its BiggestFlight Centre has opened its biggest store inthe UK. The new flagship store, located onHigh Street Kensington in London, is designedto offer a one-stop travel shop for its customersand has 20 consultants.According to the company, the new store is onthe cutting edge of Flight Centre’s businessglobally with its two in-house expert retailteams as well as dedicated Round the World,First and Business, and Flight Centre BusinessTravel teams.The new store is the first of its kind globallyfor the retailer and the company hopes toreplicate the same in other locations in future.“Flight Centre’s flagship store is situated nextto a Trailfinder’s outlet, which Flight Centresees as a main travel retail competitor. Bypositioning its new store next to a direct rival,Flight Centre hopes customers will see themas the brand which offers the best value formoney on the high street,” stated the company.

Club Med Trade OfferClub Med is offering travel agents and up to three travel companions a 50% discount offtheir land stay at any Club Med resort throughout the Asia Pacific region (excluding ClubMed Bintan Island). The offer is valid for travel during the months of SEP and OCT08.The rates, based on Superior, twin share room, per person per night are:· Club Med Kani - adult $189.50, child $113.50· Club Med Cherating Beach - adult $148.50, child $89· Club Med Phuket - adult $133, child $79.50· Club Med Lindeman Island - adult $146.50, child $88· Club Med Bora Bora - adult $248, child $148.50· Club Med La Plantation d’Albion - adult $224.50, child $157Email [email protected] for a reservation form.

LAN/Marriott SYD FamilMarriott International and LAN Airlinesrecently took a group of Groups/Conference/PCO operators to Sydney for the weekend.While the group checked out the hotels andairline, they also managed to fit in time for aSydney Harbour Bridge Climb. The verdict:‘Awesome’ and ‘Best thing I have ever done.’

Back row, L to R: James Fogelberg – The ExtraMile Company; Jessica Ogg – Ci Events; CarissaDavies – APEZ Groups; Nicola Bruning – AtlasGroups; Mark Kerr – Eventi ManagementFront Row, L to R: Jo Vanderfeen – House of TravelEvents; Sue Denton – Conference Works;

Meredith Billie – MotivAction.

LATE BREAK

A 78-year-old woman misunderstoodinstructions while checking in at Sweden’smain airport and was whisked down abaggage chute after she placed herselfinstead of her luggage on the belt. She wasquickly swept off to the baggage handlingcentre, where staff members helped get herback on her feet.AFP reports the woman suffered no seriousinjury and caught her flight as planned, but

there is no word on how the bag fared.

Tiger Australia will fly from Adelaide toHobart, the Gold Coast, Perth and AliceSprings, from March next year after setting

up a base in South Australia.

Jobs and hotel investment will be at risk ifRotorua District Council proceeds withproposed changes to its rating system, theTourism Industry Association New Zealand(TIA) says.TIA Policy Manager Simon Wallacepresented TIA’s submission on the council’srating review to the council yesterday.Hotels would be particularly hard hit if thecouncil changed from a land-based ratingsystem to capital value, Mr Wallace said.Some hotels could face rates increases ofmore than $100,000 a year, at a time whenthe tourism industry was already grappling

with slowing visitor growth and rising costs.

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