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Australia’s favourite travel news magazine
WWW.TRAVELTALKMAG.COM.AU ISSUE JULY/AUGUST 2019 TT648
“I just turned
someday
into
today.”
Adventure is knocking.℠
You’re in good hands.
Book with confidence.
With value-minded touring holidays in 67 countries
across six continents, Cosmos opens up the
possibility of travelling more frequently and easily
than could be achieved otherwise.
If your clients are looking for the perfect travel
adventure without the hassle of organising it
themselves, then look no further than a Cosmos
holiday for their next journey abroad. By combining
the very best that a destination has to offer with
the flexibility of independent exploration, Cosmos
strikes the perfect balance! With an expert Tour
Director and Local Guides to enrich the whole
experience, we pride ourselves in bringing the
world’s adventures within reach.
Adventure is knocking.℠
Australia’s favourite travel news magazine
WWW.TRAVELTALKMAG.COM.AU ISSUE JULY/AUGUST 2019 TT648
WIN A STAY IN
NEW ZEALAND’S
BEST HOTEL!
NTIA
20-PAGE
SPECIAL!
ALL THE
WINNERS
USA & GRINNERS
Musical magic FROM TRAVEL’S
in the deep south NIGHT OF NIGHTS
PLUS: FIVE FAIRYTALE PALACES THAT WON’T BREAK THE BANK!
EDITORIAL
Jon Underwood
CONTENTS
Managing Editor (print)
Email: jon@traveltalkmag.com.au
Gaya Avery
Managing Editor (digital)
Email: editorial@traveltalkmag.com.au
Rebecca Lawson
Sub Editor
EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS
14
Tania Clarke, Nicky Oosthuizen, Leah McGrath,
Mark Harada, Jenny Rowland
ART DIRECTOR
Vanessa Pribil Features Departments
Email: production@traveltalkmag.com.au
23 COMPETITION 6 AGENTtalk
ADVERTISING
It’s been crowned the best hotel in New
Sydney: Mal Jenkins
Advertising Sales Manager
Zealand for past two years and now Traveltalk 16 BOOK IT NOW
Mobile: 0434 377 432 is giving you the opportunity to win a stay
Email: mal@traveltalkmag.com.au at the Rees Hotel Queenstown. Don’t miss 20 INDUSTRYtalk
the chance to enjoy this five-star experience
Sydney: Jenny Rowland in the heart of one of New Zealand’s top
Mobile: 0414 746 146
destinations.
24 SKYtalk
Fax: (02) 9969 3390
Email: jenny@traveltalkmag.com.au
36 NTIA SPECIAL 26 PROPERTYtalk
Perth: Debbie Sproule We are proud to be an official media
Tel: (08) 6406 1358 supporter of the 2019 National Travel Industry 29 CRUISEtalk
Mobile: 0403 833 295 Awards. In this 20-page special, we have all
Email: debbie@traveltalkmag.com.au the reports, photos and reaction from the 60 SPECIAL FEATURE:
travel industry’s night of nights, including a
DIRECTORS AND ASSOCIATE PUBLISHERS
list of all the winners.
Wakatobi
Jenny Rowland (Sydney)
Debbie Sproule (Perth)
Perth Office: 56 HEALTH & WELLNESS
PO Box 3104 Kingsley WA 6026 Which top Aussie surfer has teamed up with
a renowned Balinese resort to launch a new
DISTRIBUTION AND SUBSCRIPTIONS
surf and wellness retreat? We’ll tell you who
Tel: (08) 6406 1358
it is, plus offer some top tips to keep you safe
Email: distribution@traveltalkmag.com.au
when abroad.
PUBLISHED BY
Pointer Publishing Pty Ltd 58 EUROPE
ABN 92 150 111 701 Who wouldn’t fancy a night or two in a
PO Box 3104 Kingsley WA 6026 fairytale palace? Here, Smart Lemur highlights
Tel: (08) 6406 1358
some great options across the continent that
62
Website: www.traveltalkmag.com.au
won’t break the travel budget.
62 USA Australia’s favourite travel news magazine
Elvis Presley, Sun Studio in Memphis and New
Orleans. All of these and plenty more can be
Annual CAB audited circulation WWW.TRAVELTALKMAG.COM.AU ISSUE JULY/AUGUST 2019 TT648
average: 5,944. Ave G/A annual experienced on the new Cosmos ‘Southern
emag downloads 540. WIN A STAY IN
TOTAL CIRC 6,484 PER ISSUE Sounds’ tour. NEW ZEALAND’S
Oct 2018 to March 2019 BEST HOTEL!
64 SUSTAINABLE
TOURISM NTIA
Discover how Hurtigruten have made 20-PAGE
SPECIAL!
maritime history, how you can help the
While every care and precaution has been taken in the preparation of ALL THE
Traveltalk, no liability can be accepted for errors or omissions herein. disadvantaged in Bali and the special WINNERS
Information is published in good faith to stimulate independent
USA & GRINNERS
investigation by the reader. Views and opinions expressed in Traveltalk package being offered at Asia’s eco-luxury Musical magic
in the deep south
FROM TRAVEL’S
NIGHT OF NIGHTS
do not necessarily reflect those of the management.
All articles are fully protected by copyright. To obtain written
private island. All this plus the big ecological
PLUS: FIVE FAIRYTALE PALACES THAT WON’T BREAK THE BANK!
permission to reproduce any material please contact the managing
editor on editorial@traveltalkmag.com.au
announcement from Lindblad that has the
whole cruise industry talking. Cover image courtesy Lindblad
T R AV E LT A L K J U LY / A U G U S T 2 0 1 9 | 5
AGENTtalk
HOW TO WIN
A TRIP TO
HONG KONG
TWO TRAVEL industry consultants are being
offered the chance to win a fully-hosted trip
to Hong Kong.
The five-day/four-night famil is being
promoted by the Hong Kong Tourism Board
(HKTB) to celebrate the third year of the
Hong Kong Specialist Club. The 2019 Hong
Kong Global Famil will take place from
October 15-19.
To be in the running, travel trade
professionals must register and complete the
three Hong Kong Specialist Club educational “The 2019 Hong Kong Global Famil is an Hong Kong’s new infrastructure, including
modules online by August 16. exciting opportunity for two lucky Aussie the Hong Kong-Zuhai-Macau Bridge and
“The Hong Kong Specialist Club is a great travel industry consultants to become Hong explore Hong Kong’s Back Garden with
way to encourage and motivate Aussie Kong ambassadors by experiencing Asia’s its great outdoors and its Living Culture
agents to learn more about Hong Kong world city first-hand as well as being part of through the local neighbourhoods of Old
and become more proactive in selling the an international network of members. Town Central, Sham Shui Po and West
destination,” said Lisa Lee, HKTB Manager, “We’re thrilled that this year’s itinerary Kowloon.”
Trade Marketing and Business Tourism for has been extended to five-days/four-nights ■ To complete the Hong Kong Specialist
Australia, New Zealand and South Pacific. so that the group can experience some of Club online, visit specialisthk.com/au
SELL AND
SAIL AWAY
TO ASIA
AQUA EXPEDITIONS is running a sales
incentive for Aussie agents which could
earn you a three-night cruise onboard
the Aqua Mekong.
The incentive is applicable for
confirmed bookings of three Aqua
Expeditions luxury cruises with full
deposit of any duration or destination
until November 1.
The Meg is coming to America
SNO’N’SKI has launched its 2020 Mega Fam, hosting 30 top-selling agents on an annual
The promotion is valid for a three-night
eight-night adventure to one of the world’s most desirable destinations.
itinerary on a first deck Design Suite to Next year’s event will see agents heading to the resorts of Aspen, Snowmass, Steamboat
travel during Aqua’s summer season from and Park City in America.
May 1, 2020, to August 6, 2020. “I believe the best way to reward our loyal travel agents is to give them an experience they
may not have had, and the feedback from the last three Mega Fams has been unbelievable,”
Agents can extend their journey
said Daniel Walker, General Manager, Sno’n’Ski.
to a four- or seven-night itinerary, Agents can qualify for a spot on the trip by selling Sno’n’Ski accommodation and lift
paying rack rates for the extra nights. A packages throughout the incentive period, which runs until August 31. Bonus entries can be
companion can join you on the cruise earned for bookings to the U.S. partner resorts and bookings that include flights with Virgin
Australia or Delta.
at a special rate of $US350 (approx.
Included in the prize is return flights from Brisbane, Sydney or Melbourne, eight-night’s
$AU500) per night. accommodation, lift passes, equipment hire, lessons, ground transfers and selected meals.
■ aquaexpeditions.com The famil is scheduled to run from March 6 to March 15, 2020.
■ snonski.com.au
6 | W W W. T R AV E LTA L K M A G . C O M . A U
AGENTtalk
Bookings will
help you to
explore more
EXPLORE HAS launched a new incentive for
agents, offering them a free trip in return for
bookings made before a certain date.
Agents who book five passengers between
now and December 31 will have the chance to
experience an Explore Worldwide trip for two,
from Asia to Africa or the Americas.
Explore have more than 600 trips to choose
from, including cycling the backroads of
Kerala, tackling Amalfi’s ‘Walk of the Gods’, or
sleeping under the stars in Jordan’s desert.
Bookings must be registered online to be
eligible for the free trip. All bookings must be
paid in full before requesting your free trip,
which must be taken by October 31, 2020.
Further conditions apply. Valetta, Malta
■ exploreworldwide.com.au
It’s time to
say Aloha for
this top 10
THE ISLANDS of Hawaii are
beckoning for 10 agents after they
emerged victorious in an incentive
promotion.
Places on the exclusive Phenix
Ramon Drew, Viking’s Commercial Manager reward trip were awarded at the
NSW, with Adelina Arancibia of St Ives Travel annual Travel Counsellors conference
Golden jackpot
held in Adelaide recently. The
year-long incentive rewards the top
gives finders
Phenix users with a place on the
highly-coveted trip.
Partnering with Hawaii Tourism Oceania and Hawaiian Airlines, the trip will include
tickets to ride helicopter flights over the Napali Coast, mountain tubing and travelling between the islands.
“Travel agents are incredibly valuable to our sales and marketing activities within the
OPENING A box of new brochures isn’t always Oceania region,” said Giselle Radulovic, Country Manager Australia for Hawaii Tourism
cause for celebration but for two travel Oceania.
agencies it has proved to be a golden moment. “By educating them on all the Hawaiian Islands have to offer, we are equipping them with
To celebrate the launch of the 2020-2021 the skills and knowledge necessary to sell the destination.”
Ocean Cruises brochure, Viking announced ■ travelcounsellors.com.au
that three golden tickets would be randomly
placed in boxes and distributed nationally.
Agents at St Ives Travel in New South
Wales, Helloworld Redbank in Queensland
SURVEY SHOWS AGENTS DO IT ON PURPOSE
and italktravel & Cruise Ballarat in Victoria TRAVEL AGENTS are more likely to be purpose-oriented compared to those employed
all discovered a glittering ticket. They each in other fields.
receive a 15-day ‘Far East Discovery’ ocean According to research released by G Adventures, 71 per cent of agents are purpose-
cruise for two sailing from Beijing to Hong oriented as opposed to a 64 per cent benchmark in other industries.
Kong, including a shore excursion to the For agents identifying as adventure specialists, this figure rises to 80 per cent, which
Great Wall of China. is significant as being purpose-led and selling purpose-led product has been proven to
Viking’s new 2020-2021 Ocean Cruises have tangible, long-term business benefits.
brochure is now available at TIFS and The results of the first global Travel Agent Purpose Survey were unveiled at the first
features more than 10 new itineraries and global, purpose-led conference for agents, ‘Change Makers’, which took place in Peru in
extensions, and a new destination when the June.
company returns to Turkey. ■ gadventures.com.au
■ vikingcruises.com.au
T R AV E LT A L K J U LY / A U G U S T 2 0 1 9 | 7
AGENTtalk A group explore
Patagonia
PRIZE PUTS
RICCARDO IN
THE PICTURE
Book a group and reap rewards RICCARDO FOIS was the winner of a new
Canon DSLR camera courtesy of Bench Africa
after taking part in their annual agent survey.
ADVENTURE WORLD Travel (AWT) is offering agents the chance to receive a special $100 The grand prize was open to every entrant
Giftpay card when booking and depositing a group. who completed the survey, run every year
Whether it’s an incentive or conference group booking, a walking or cycling club or as a way to identify any areas of difficulty for
an extended family wanting to retrace their roots, AWT can work with agents on great agents.
specialty itineraries for groups of 10 or more travellers. Despite the record number of entrants, it
From working on a suitable quote to keeping the client’s interests in mind, the group’s was Riccardo from Flight Centre Prahran in
team at AWT has knowledge and expertise to ensure impeccable service and value for Victoria who was the winner.
money. He is pictured here receiving his prize
Agents must book and deposit a group before August 31 to be eligible for the reward. from Nicki De Jager, Bench Africa’s new BDM
■ adventureworld.com for Victoria/Tasmania.
■ benchafrica.com.au
KERRI TAKES A LIKING TO VIKING
ONE LUCKY agent is planning a French river cruise itinerary after winning a trade incentive
offered by Viking Cruises.
Kerri O’Sullivan (pictured) from Jayes Travel in Newcastle, New South Wales, has won an
eight-day Provence and Lyon experience after achieving the highest grossing river sales
between January 21 and April 30.
The incentive was designed to mark the launch of the line’s 2020 River Cruise brochure.
“A huge thank you to all the agents who took part in this incentive and continue to
support our brand,” said Erin Kramer, Trade Marketing Manager at Viking.
“We couldn’t do what we do without you – and that’s deliver incredible cruises for
discerning Australian travellers.”
Kerri’s prize will see her and a guest sail on the Rhone River through the countryside in the
south of France between Avignon and Lyon, with calls to Arles, Viviers, Vienne and Tournon.
During her cruise she’ll experience Viking’s signature inclusions, such as a complimentary
shore excursion in every port, free Wi-Fi and gratuities, as well as wine, beer and soft drinks
with lunch and dinner.
■ vikingcruises.com.au
Giving Humpty a helping hand
HELLOWORLD TRAVEL employees took part in a charity run in Sydney
recently in aid of the Humpty Dumpty Foundation.
As a proud corporate partner of the charity, the Helloworld team
took part in the ‘Balmoral Burn’, an annual run in Mosman.
The run and other events raised more than $2m for much needed
lifesaving medical equipment for children’s wards in Australian
hospitals.
Pictured (left to right) are Kristian Ilioski, Andrej Dopud, Mark
Brownlee and Benn Hartung from Helloworld Travel Limited in North
Sydney.
■ humpty.com.au
8 | W W W. T R AV E LTA L K M A G . C O M . A U
AGENTtalk
Now you can
follow in this
winner’s footsteps
ONE LUCKY agent is heading to the Antarctic with
TV personality Dr Karl Kruszelnicki after winning an
incentive offered by World Expeditions valued at
more than $15,000.
The North Yorkshire Moors. Picture Emily Cai from the Sydney-based ONLYLUXE
courtesy VisitBritain/Lee Beel travel agency sold the most World Expeditions
Travel Group (WETG) holidays to earn the prize,
Aussie success prompts expansion which includes a 12-day Antarctic cruise onboard
the M/V Ortelius, return airfares and $500 spending
VISITBRITAIN plan to expand their presence in Australia as inbound figures to the UK money.
from Down Under continue to increase. “I’m just thrilled to go to Antarctica with Dr
In an interview with Traveltalk, Sally Balcombe, Chief Executive of VisitBritain, said Karl,” said Emily. “Travelling with an expert and
partnerships with Australian trade remained “as crucial as ever”. learning more about Antarctica will make it such a
“We continue to work in-market with Flight Centre, Helloworld and airlines to meaningful experience.”
amplify our marketing reach and convert the aspiration to visit the UK into actual The voyage offers opportunities to get active
bookings, showing how accessible our nations and regions are and telling the stories with kayaking, walks, camping on ice and other
of destinations.” activities to enjoy – and Emily is going with an
Ms Balcombe revealed that the organisation was predicting more than one million open mind.
Australians would visit the UK this year, up four per cent on 2018. Australia is now the “I’ve camped in the wild a lot but camping
UK’s fourth most valuable market, bringing in more than a billion pounds a year. on the ice will be a new adventure for me. I love
“We are investing in an expanded VisitBritain presence on the ground in Australia, kayaking and can’t wait to paddle among the
boosting the local team by three including a new Trade Engagement Executive. icebergs and to see some of the incredible wildlife.”
“We know how important travel agents and operators are in Australia for booking World Expeditions is repeating the ‘Big
UK holidays and our new trade engagement program will see us working more Adventures’ incentive in 2020. The agent who
closely together to grow sales.” sells the most holidays between now and June 30,
■ visitbritain.com 2020, will earn themselves a place on the 17-day
‘Silk Road to Samarkand via Kashgar’ tour, return
economy airfares ex-Sydney or Melbourne and
Retreat shows the way forward $500 spending money.
The journey follows a route that has been
THE BLUE Mountains just outside Sydney were the backdrop for the annual italktravel& travelled for thousands of years, passing mosques,
cruise owners retreat. temples, monasteries and markets, and was
The weekend event included a visit to Scenic World where the group experienced travelled by Alexander the Great, Ghengis Khan
the skyway and cableway and rode the steepest railway in the world. and Tamerlane. The prize is valued at more than
The conference provided an opportunity for business owners to collaborate and $11,000.
discuss business ideas, receive updates from the Express Travel Group Executive Team Agents will automatically earn one point for every
and work together to forge a pathway for the brand into the future. WETG trip sold. Trips must be more than five days
“The retreat is an invaluable opportunity for us to collaborate with our business duration and agents will receive credits for qualifying
owners,” said Ari Magoutis, Executive General Manager, Express Travel Group. trips already sold.
“We are a member-driven network so these events allow open and honest The WETG comprises 11 brands, including World
conversations with our members to drive national decisions and the direction of the Expeditions, UTracks, Tasmanian Expeditions,
franchise into the future.” Australian Walking Holidays, Sherpa Expeditions,
■ etg.travel Great Canadian Trails and Adventure South NZ. All
WETG itineraries are commissionable to agents.
■ worldexpeditions.com/agentfamil
Dr Karl Kruszelnicki
with Emily Cai
T R AV E LT A L K J U LY / A U G U S T 2 0 1 9 | 9
AGENTtalk: Famil Review
Left: Who doesn’t like a dress up? Tania Clarke
(second from right) with travelling pals
Above: Brno at sunset
around 100,000 residents being students.
The city offers a vibrant cultural life with
various museums, theatres and galleries, but
it is the labyrinth of underground cellars and
tunnels that date back to medieval times
that particularly stand out.
While in Brno we spent a day touring the
area and got to taste some of the local wines,
which have been judged as the best of the
region. A visit to the Czech Wine Salon offers
the chance to taste more than 100 of the
best wines from all over the Czech Republic.
The National Wine Bank is situated in a
region called ‘The Pearl of South Moravia’,
which really lives up to its name. The cellar
is extremely large and I was surprised by
the sheer quantity of wine bottles, which
were on display for tasting as well as for sale.
Definitely a place to include on your itinerary
– just remember not to self-drive as there are
far too many good wines to sample!
Another great day trip you can do from
Brno is to the Punkva Caves, also located
in Southern Moravia. This was a fascinating
experience, walking through the caves and
seeing all the stalagmites, as well as where
the water levels have decreased through
time.
The caves are part of a large underground
Tania becomes
tunnel system which was created by water
flow. Part of the tour is on a boat ride, which
was fun as well as interesting to learn about
the different depths of the water in certain
a Czech mate
places.
After three days in Brno and surrounding
towns it was off to the main attraction of
Prague, where I was fortunate enough to
stay at the lovely K+K Central Hotel.
TANIA CLARKE from Where2travel explores the regional This is one of the oldest art deco buildings
in the city and was originally a theatre,
areas of the Czech Republic and discovers there is more to which is still evident despite the modern
this country than just Prague. conversions. Located in the heart of Prague,
it was the perfect base to discover the city
I HAD not been to Europe for about 10 a magnificent city, only to drive around it and everything it had to offer.
years, so when the opportunity arose to and then head straight to our first stop of The best way to explore this fascinating
visit the Czech Republic as a guest of the Brno, the second largest city in the country. city that is so full of history is on foot with a
Czech Tourism Travel Board, I jumped at the This cosmopolitan city is about a two- local travel guide.
chance. and-a-half hour drive from Prague, but well One of the highlights of our walking tour
Upon touching down in Prague I was worth a visit. It’s a fascinating place, made was the Charles Bridge, the history of which
greeted by Jan Urban, our host from Czech up of its own history, new art scene, amazing is riveting. Legend has it that construction
Tourism, and the rest of the small group I architecture and fabulous food culture. began at 5.31am on July 9, 1357, with the
would be travelling with for the next seven Brno is also home to 13 universities first stone being laid by Charles IV.
days. and because of this you will find that the This exact time was hugely important
It was a strange experience to land in such population is on the younger side with to the Roman Emperor, because he was a
10 | W W W . T R A V E L T A L K M A G . C O M . A UAGENTtalk: Famil Review
Cesky Krumlov
■
believer in numerology and this construction
formed a palindrome (1357, 9, 7, 5:31).
From the Charles Bridge I walked with the
group to Prague Castle, which dates back
to the ninth century and is in the Baroque
style. It is a magnificent piece of architecture,
occupying more than 70,000-square-metres,
making it one of the largest ancient castles
on the UNESCO Monuments list.
To walk around and see this superb
building with all its history left me
speechless and was one of my favourite
experiences on the whole tour. a fairy tale. I will never forget the opulent preserved that even the original equipment
Leaving another of the best experiences rooms inside the castle, particularly the has been maintained.
to last, we also took a day trip to Cesky Masquerade Room, which was painted by This country has made a massive
Krumlov, a quaint little UNESCO village Josef Lederer and depicts a scene from a impression on me with its history and
located an hour-and-a-half from Prague. masquerade ball. wonderful sites and I cannot wait to return
The castle is the dominant feature of I also had the privilege of seeing the and experience more of the regional Czech
Cesky Krumlov and is like something out of Baroque Theatre, which has been so well Republic.
Do try this at home
THOSE INTREPID advisors at Mobile Travel Agents have been
scouring the world in their thirst for knowledge.
Belinda Manning and Debra Johnston (below) were invited to
dinner at 5.8 Undersea Restaurant at Hurawhali in the Maldives as
part of an Island Destinations study tour.
Program highlights included product updates and stays at
Hurawahli Maldives, the St Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort and Joali
Maldives.
In California, Sandy Sirianni (left) made time to say ‘hi’ to the
famous giant bronze sculpture which dominates the famous
Mammoth Mountain ski resort. Sandy was part of an American
Airlines’ ‘Let it snow!’ study tour.
The program also included updates on new ski resort
accommodation, activities and attractions recently completed in
North Lake Tahoe.
■ mtatravel.com.au
T R A V E L T A L K J U L Y / A U G U S T 2 0 1 9 | 11AGENTtalk: Famil Review
Kenya feel the love tonight Amboseli boasts savannah, bush land
NICKY OOSTHUIZEN, WA State Manager for Bench and barren, dusty stretches of land where
Africa, had a front row seat to the pachyderm version eerie whirlwinds dance. It’s home to a palm
savannah and a lush green swamp where
of The Bachelor on a trip to Kenya. hundreds of different animals congregate
daily in order to enjoy this natural source of
I RECENTLY escorted a small group of travel Amboseli National Parks are home to some of fresh water.
industry specialists to Kenya. The majority of the last big tuskers left in the world. It was here that we spent time enjoying
them had never set foot on African soil, thus Tsavo West National Park was a definite bush reality TV at its best: The Bachelor in
the excitement and anticipation were high. memory builder. It was like being on the Amboseli!
Those expectations were more than set of the Out of Africa movie, yet this film It all started when a handsome elephant
matched as Kenya overwhelmed us with its set incorporates views of Kilimanjaro. This walked across the savannah towards a herd
natural beauty and diversity. Oh, and there is the highest free standing mountain on of females, clearly in search of his perfect
certainly is ample opportunity within this the planet, which proudly owns a spot partner.
country to view African animals. After all, it is on the ‘Seven Summits’ list. Not to be At first the matriarch checked all his
home to some of the most famous national underestimated… credentials. Values, track records and trunk
parks in the world. The road snaked through the most sizes were discussed. Which of these fine
From Tsavo East National Park, one of diverse landscapes. From driving amid black ladies would be his?
Kenya’s oldest and largest parks, we journeyed volcanic rock formations, to meandering He moved slowly around the herd,
to Tsavo West National Park. The Tsavo and through the lush African wilderness and eyeballing each lady, making certain he
valleys boasting endless views, the scenery chose his best match. One of the ladies was
touched our souls. How could one dare nod busy cleaning her teeth; another attempted
off or even close an eyelid? Missing out was to fix her make-up while another covered
not an option! herself with the most expensive dust
Eventually we reached a hidden gem, perfume. Mr Handsome certainly stole the
Mzima Springs. This area is covered with show that day!
volcanic lava rock, although over the years Apart from wonderful experiences like
Mother Nature has blanketed it with lush green this, another thing a travel brochure is
vegetation, thus birthing a majestic oasis. unable to capture is the sensory experience
A footpath led us to a thicket where water Africa offers.
continuously flowed out of the earth. Some From the moment the country’s
estimate that it may take two decades before distinctive scent touches your nostrils
rainwater makes its way to the surface to to when the sounds of birds, insects and
form this memorable natural spring. animals overpower the hearing, Africa
During our stay at the beautiful Satao massively over-delivers.
Elerai Camp, with its memorable views of I have encountered many pristine parks in
Kilimanjaro, we had the opportunity to visit Africa; however, Amboseli stole a piece of my
Amboseli National Park, situated a mere heart. I thank you…
12-kilometres away. ■ benchafrica.com
12 | W W W . T R A V E L T A L K M A G . C O M . A ULUXURY AFRICAN
SAFARI SALE
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12 days from $11,515 p.p. twin (save $3,115 p.p.)
A rare chance to witness one of the greatest wildlife spectacles on Earth
at an extraordinary price, travelling in true A&K style, and staying in luxury
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www.abercrombiekent.com.au/luxury-safari-sale
abercrombiekent.com.auAGENTtalk: Fresh Faces
Leah is looking forward to donning
her swimmers in Kauai. Picture courtesy
Hawaii Tourism Authority/Tor Johnson
HOW I MANAGE
MY TRAVEL NEEDS
LEAH MCGRATH, TravelManagers Business Partnership Manager
for Northern & Regional Victoria, gives us her top travel tip and TravelManagers and starting your own
reveals the holiday essential she never leaves home without. business that you are no longer a part of a
team and you lose the company culture that
Q: Where is the last place you visited? Q: Why did you join TravelManagers? you might be used to.
A: UK and Europe. In the European summer A: I joined TravelManagers because However, since joining, I have realised our
last year, I travelled through Spain and I share their values. They encourage PTMs around Australia and in smaller areas all
Portugal followed by a week in London. individuality, they care about their people work as a team; they help each other out and
A highlight for me was Porto – such a and culture, and they offer flexible working there is a sense of community within them.
gorgeous European city. arrangements, which is something that is Q: Tell us something people should
Q: Where are you going to next? becoming more appealing. know about TravelManagers?
A: Beautiful Hawaii later this year and TravelManagers is Australia’s biggest A: TravelManagers has the most
spending most of our time on Kauai. home-based travel business and the market knowledgeable and qualified national
Q: Besides your passport, what’s one leader. I see the company having continued support team in Australia with an average
thing you always take on your travels growth over the coming years – and I want of 20 plus years’ industry experience. Their
with you? to be a part of that. support is incredible.
A: My swimmers. I absolutely love the water, Q: Tell us something people might not Q: What’s your top travel tip?
so my swimmers are always the first thing I know about TravelManagers? A: Be spontaneous and always get to know
pack no matter where I am going. A: People sometimes think that by joining the locals.
THAT’S A WRAP ON THE
MEET, GREET AND FEATS
TRAVELMANAGERS HAVE wrapped up their latest round of state meetings designed to discuss
the future direction of the company.
Meetings were held in Melbourne, Perth, Brisbane, Sydney and Adelaide for the company’s
570 home-based consultants, giving them an opportunity to hear from suppliers and network
with colleagues.
“State meetings give PTMs the ability to talk directly to the National Partnership Office
experts in fares/ticketing, digital and social media, accounting and operational processes and
general marketing,” said Michael Gazal, TravelManagers’ Executive General Manager.
“This round of meetings focused on our planning for the future of TravelManagers. In particular, it
covered new commercial opportunities, updates from our Financial, Commercial and IT departments,
and there was also time allocated to presentations from several of our key supplier partners.”
Among the 200-plus PTMs who attended the five meetings were 23 who were each
celebrating five years with TravelManagers, including Melbourne-based PTM Rachael Portelli,
pictured right with Suzanne Laister from the NPO.
■ travelmanagers.com.au
14 | W W W . T R A V E L T A L K M A G . C O M . A UAGENTtalk
INCENTIVE YOU’VE STILL got time to try and qualify to join an agent incentive to Sri Lanka
with Bunnik Tours and the Small Group Touring Co.
The 10-day visit, led by Dennis and Marion Bunnik, will explore the culture,
CLOCK IS history, culinary scene and landscapes of Sri Lanka – recently announced as Lonely
Planet’s top ranked country for travel.
TICKING
The 45 top selling agents from each State who have booked tours with both
companies through August 15 will qualify.
Kandy ■ bunniktours.com.au
AUSSIES ARE STILL
LOVING YOUR WORK
A NEW study has revealed that
Australian travellers trust their
agents more than ever.
The 2019 SureSave Travel
Insurance Index found that more
than three in four (76 per cent)
of Australians said they relied
on agents as ‘a trusted source of
travel and safety advice’.
This reflects an almost 20
per cent rise in trust since
2012, when only 57 per cent of
those polled admitted to relying on agents in SureSave’s first annual
consumer survey.
“It is encouraging to see that travellers continue to place such a
high importance on agents’ specialised knowledge when booking
travel plans, whether that be to organise complex itineraries or to
receive information on travel insurance,” said Matt Endycott, Head of
Agency Sales at SureSave, a travel assistance and insurance provider.
“Each year, we continue to see a high number of travellers in
Australia turning to agents for travel advice.”
Mr Endycott said that while some consumers still go online for
help, SureSave has seen that agents are still “highly regarded in
the eyes of the general public and overall, travellers really want to
Getting the entire Pacific picture
maximise the expertise provided by agents.” ENTIRE TRAVEL Group has hosted 130 travel advisors in Sydney and
According to the study, two in five (38 per cent) Aussies used an Brisbane to a French Pacific Islands soiree.
agent to book their last holiday abroad. Under the theme of ‘Champagne and Coconuts,’ the two events
The main reason for doing so, as cited by one in five respondents, showcased the diversity of New Caledonia and Tahiti. They were
was the ease at which agents could handle complex itineraries. hosted by Entire Travel Group in partnership with Tahiti Tourisme
Almost as many (17 per cent) said that it was “convenient to book and Air Tahiti Nui, New Caledonia Tourism and Aircalin.
everything through a travel agent.” “All of our brands are made up of a hard-working team of
One in four respondents said they arranged insurance for their specialists, passionate about their respective destination,” said Brad
most recent overseas vacation through a travel agency (either in McDonnell, CEO of Entire Travel Group.
person, online or over the phone), which was just behind the most “As always, we are devoted to offering only the best for your
popular source (26 per cent): directly booked insurance. clients – creating premium itineraries and memorable experiences.”
The 2019 Travel Insurance Index, the eighth consecutive annual A market place allowed agents to interact with key partners and
independent research project by SureSave, polled 1,000 Australians. destination specialists while Tahitian dancers provided entertainment.
■ suresave.com.au ■ entiretravelgroup.com
T R A V E L T A L K J U L Y / A U G U S T 2 0 1 9 | 15BOOK IT NOW: Japan AUSSIES SWAPPING THE BEACH FOR TEMPLES Above: Kyoto. MOVE OVER Bali and Thailand, Australians city and the birthplace of Christianity in Below: Himeji Castle are booking holidays to Japan more than Japan) and Matsumoto, famed for its castle any other destination. of the same name, which is also listed as a According to the latest figures released by National Treasure of Japan. Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO), A visit to Japan is not complete without more than half a million Australian tourists seeing Mount Fuji up close and personal. visited the country in 2018, setting a new Considered one of Japan’s three holy annual record. mountains (Mount Haku and Mount And with Japan playing host to the World Tateyama are the other two), Fujisan is the Rugby Cup later this year and the Olympics country’s tallest peak. The tour goes to the in 2020, there are plenty of reasons to visit Fujisan’s 5th Station, halfway up the active the Land of the Rising Sun. volcano. Japan’s attraction as a year-round, safe Settling into Hakone for the evening, and friendly destination for Australian customers will enjoy a traditional kaiseki travellers has proved to be a hit with dinner before an overnight stay in an Inspiring Vacations customers too, with their authentic Japanese ryokan (or inn). 17-day ‘Authentic Japan’ a consistent top The following day, after a ride on Lake Australian owned and operated. Partnering seller. Ashi, customers will board the famed with a worldwide network of local travel The company’s all-inclusive tour is suited shinkansen, or bullet train, which runs at experts means customers enjoy culturally to both first time visitors who want to see speeds up to 320 km/h. It’s known for its unique and delightfully unforgettable flight Japan’s top sights, as well as those who punctuality down to the second as well as its inclusive travel packages to the world’s want to revisit the highlights, historical and comfort and safety – it’s a must-experience favourite destinations, all at a value for cultural pursuits, and experience Japanese when visiting Japan. money price. ‘Authentic Japan’ is priced from hospitality. The final stop on this Japanese adventure $4,999 per person twin share. Customers land in Osaka, take in 400-year- is a visit to the bustling capital, Tokyo. Spread Being an online company means old Osaka Castle and the lively Dotonbori over three prefectures, customers will customers can browse tours and shop at entertainment area known for kitschy neon explore the Imperial Palace, among other their own convenience – anytime, anywhere lights and signage, before moving onto key attractions, which looks magical come – but backed up with 24/7 customer Kyoto and its ancient shrines and bamboo cherry blossom season. support. forests. This tour is fully escorted by an English- Inspiring Vacations also work with travel Those wanting to pursue some serious speaking guide throughout and includes agents who also enjoy 24/7 customer R&R can do so in Matsuyama with a stop return flights with Singapore Airlines, daily support. And once customers decide to at Japan’s oldest hot spring; it’s more than breakfast and kaiseki dinner, cruise and book, they’ll be looked after by a dedicated, 1,000 years old. History buffs will be in their iconic bullet train ride from Hakone to Tokyo. Australian-based travel expert. element with stops at Nagasaki (a coastal Inspiring Vacations is 100 per cent ■ inspiringvacations.com 16 | W W W . T R A V E L T A L K M A G . C O M . A U
BOOK IT NOW: Advertorial
Hit TV series sparks
a chain reaction
THE RECENT debut of a new TV series
has seen a massive increase in passenger
SPECIAL OFFER ON
bookings on Explore’s ‘Discover Chernobyl’
short break tour.
The adventure travel specialists have
reported a fourfold rise in numbers on its
NORFOLK ISLAND
five-day tour of the disaster site since the
hit series Chernobyl began in May.
Explore began offering trips to
Chernobyl in 2016 with a specialist short
LOCATION! LOCATION! The Crest Apartments can be your special place to unwind and retain
break, the success of which led to the
your independence in a truly relaxed environment.
launch of its ‘Discover Chernobyl’ itinerary.
This beautiful property is your gateway to the World Heritage areas of Kingston and
“The programme has become the
Arthur’s Vale, pristine swimming beaches, golf course, Government House, museums, convict
highest-rated TV series of all time. It has
ruins and only a short drive to the Burnt Pine shopping area.
inspired many people to discover more
Situated on an elevated three-hectare site with expansive well-kept grounds with
about the historical disaster and to visit
barbecue and garden seating positioned to take advantage of the seascape, it is the perfect
the Exclusion Zone,” said Joe Ponte,
spot for outdoor dining and offers great views of the Pacific Ocean and the two nearby
Explore’s Managing Director.
offshore islands from the property.
The ‘Discover Chernobyl’ short break
The Crest Apartments are owner-operated (direct descendants of Fletcher Christian) and
includes two days exploring inside the
are suited to couples, families and small groups. The property is the perfect location for a
Exclusion Zone featuring the town of
unique Norfolk Island holiday.
Pripyat, the Red Forest, Chernobyl Docks
Omniche Holidays has a great deal for you on their 10-night ‘Norfolk Island Getaway’
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shell around Reactor 4.
The holiday is priced from $1,499 per person including return flights from either Brisbane
On the trip there is also the opportunity
or Sydney, return airport transfers, 10 nights’ accommodation staying in a one-bedroom,
to meet a self-settler – one of the few
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people who chose to return to their home
comprehensive car insurance.
after the accident and has been living
The package also includes island concierge service, island orientation coach tour, dusk
within the outer Exclusion Zone ever since.
canapes gathering, ‘History in the Making’ tour, Norfolk language class, ‘The World of Norfolk’
The five-day trip includes four-nights’
exhibit, ‘World Heritage Norfolk History’ tour, six DIY tours, bounty pass, island style supper
accommodation, some meals and an
and Locavore gourmet dinner.
Explore Leader. Departures are available
This special offer is available for sales until September 30 and is valid for travel from
all year around and prices may vary.
November 1 to December 2, 2019, and February 1 to March 31, 2020.
■ exploreworldwide.com.au
■ Call Omniche Holidays on 1800 111 653 and quote 204525 or visit omnicheholidays.com
T R A V E L T A L K J U L Y / A U G U S T 2 0 1 9 | 17BOOK IT NOW: Advertorial
Left: The newlyweds are having a
fantastic time on their honeymoon and
sent through this snap from Singapore.
Below: Ashleen Graham, Tripfuser’s
Head of Travel Concierge
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or Honeymoon Co-Ordinator – you choose!
“
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experience assistant, it was a honeymoon
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“Overall, I spoke to Jessica more than 15
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booked their honeymoon until a week before Tripfuser’s Travel Concierge support
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Jessica the turn-around time was too tight, Tripfuser’s Travel Concierge means that the hassle and
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Straight from
the heart
Traveltalk’s JENNY ROWLAND reports back from RVC2019,
opportunity to put faces to the names of
people she’d been dealing with, but more
importantly the event gave her a chance to
seek out new and interesting products.
“Australians will do their bucket list
Canada’s international tourism marketplace, where a new destinations, mainly the west, but we need
campaign was launched and agents were offered some to broaden their horizons, plant a seed in
their minds and ask, ‘What about Quebec,
useful selling advice. Nova Scotia or even Newfoundland?”
“I was very impressed with the whole
THE NEW brand launch of Destination welcoming more than 21 million visitors. Manitoba area, Churchill, etc. Finding a little
Canada has a lot of heart. Literally. Hosted by Destination Ontario and cabin in a remote area and building this into
With ‘Canada: for glowing hearts’ as its Tourism Toronto, RVC 2019 had a record- one of our itineraries – that’s what makes
tagline there’s little doubt that passion and breaking attendance of more than 1,900 coming here worth it.”
emotion have inspired the campaign. delegates and remains Canada’s premier The event ended with a fantastic
With the emphasis on transformative tourism marketplace. Canadian party at the Toronto Event Centre.
travel (travel that changes you and may The Australian buyers who attended had The four seasons-themed shindig had
even make you put your phone down!), three busy days taking in the massive array everyone on their feet enjoying the band
David Goldstein, the President and CEO of of tourism products and destinations on while watching the Raptors proceed to the
Destination Canada, unveiled the new brand offer. NBA finals.
at this year’s Rendezvous Canada in Toronto, Caroline Brunel from The Entire Group Here’s to Quebec and RVC2020!
saying the campaign was based on the told Traveltalk that it had been a great ■ rendezvouscanada.ca
premise that Canada will leave a lasting mark
on your heart.
Rendezvous Canada (RVC), is Canada’s
annual international tourism marketplace
where the world’s travel trade connects with
Canada’s tourism industry partners. But this
year was different.
It was RVC’s 43rd anniversary, the Raptors
(Toronto’s beloved basketball team) were in
the NBA finals (and subsequently won!) and
it was Tourism Week, so there was a fantastic
buzz in the city as everyone got together
to celebrate and tell the world what makes
Canada great.
And it seems the message is getting
out there as last year was Canada’s best
ever in terms of arrivals, with the country
20 | W W W . T R A V E L T A L K M A G . C O M . A UINDUSTRYtalk
How to turn ideas
into bookings RVC IN
WITH MORE than 69 per cent of Australians researching or booking travel to Canada through
travel agents, Donna Campbell, Australia’s GSA for Destination Canada, told Traveltalk how
NUMBERS
important the trade is to Canada.
But being a travel agent is difficult. Clients can come in with no idea or too many of them.
So, a key element of Destination Canada’s trade focus is to shift perceptions that:
CANADA IS TOO FAR AWAY – Tell the story of how easy it is to get to Canada and travel
across the country by various modes of transport.
1,900
CANADA IS TOO COLD – Tell the story of Canada’s four distinct seasons and the unique
adventures available in each.
CANADA IS TOO EXPENSIVE – The Australian dollar goes 30 per cent further in Canada than
in America. Attendees
According to Campbell, the steady increase in flights and seat capacity out of Australia
predicts an expected 2.5 million Australian long haul pleasure travellers intending to travel
to Canada in the next two years.
Once there, Aussies will be looking for authentic Canadian experiences, such as dog
mushing, Churchill (polar bears), ultimate hikes and even Cariboo migration.
Outdoor adventure, road trips, rail romance (Rocky Mountaineer), wildlife and culinary
Canada will also feature prominently.
There are lots of reasons why Australians should go to Canada and lots of reasons why
Canada wants them to go… Australians stay longer and spend more.
■ destinationcanada.com
580 sellers
Representing 13 Canadian
territories and provinces
TRADE SHOW TIPPED
TO BREAK RECORDS
ITB ASIA will open its doors in October with
organisers reporting a huge increase in
demand from exhibitors since 2018.
The annual travel trade show has seen
a 24 per cent increase in the number of
620+
National Tourism Organisations (NTOs) and
Regional Tourism Organisations (RTOs)
Qualified buyers
wanting to exhibit.
from 29 countries
Some 58 NTOs and RTOs will be in
attendance, representing a year-on-year
growth of 23 per cent and 25 per cent
DMCs, cruise lines, spas, venues, other
respectively in the securing of exhibition
meeting facilities and travel technology
space compared to 2018.
companies are all expected to attend.
Building on last year’s record-breaking
Now in its 12th year, the three-day B2B
number of attendees of more than 11,000,
trade show and convention will feature
the 2019 event will see at least 19 new
NTOs and RTOs present.
hundreds of companies from the Asia-Pacific Unbelievable number
region, Europe, the Americas, Africa and the
“We had a remarkable turnout in 2018 of diverse products
and all the signs point to ITB Asia 2019 Middle East, covering not only the leisure
market, but also MICE and corporate travel.
and experiences on offer
being even more successful,” said Katrina
Leung, Managing Director, Messe Berlin The three contingents with the largest
(Singapore), organiser of ITB Asia. exhibition spaces registered are from
“The increased interest and high Indonesia, Russia and South Korea. The
confirmed demand for exhibition space from strongest participation comes from Asia,
NTOs and RTOs at ITB Asia 2019 affirms the with Southeast Asia well represented and
value associated with ITB Asia as the leading newcomers Myanmar and RTO, Jakarta,
travel trade show for Asia and beyond.” taking part.
Exhibitors from every sector of the
industry, including destinations, airlines and
ITB ASIA 2019 will take place from October
16 to 18 at the Sands Expo and Convention
$90million
airports, hotels and resorts, theme parks and Centre, Marina Bay Sands in Singapore. worth of business expected to be
attractions, inbound tour operators, inbound ■ itb-asia.com generated over the 3 days
T R A V E L T A L K J U L Y / A U G U S T 2 0 1 9 | 21INDUSTRYAtalk New tourism plan emerges in Thailand Traveltalk’s MARK HARADA reports from the 2019 Thailand Travel Mart Plus. THAILAND HAS revealed a new major emerging cities, especially those that are tourism plan designed to promote up and geographically close, like first capital city coming cities and regions across the country. Sukhothai and Phitsanulok or Kamphaeng The new initiative was unveiled at Phet, which could be paired together on an Thailand Travel Mart Plus (TTM+), held this historic tour. year at Chonburi’s Ocean Marina Yacht Club “There are so many beautiful places that in Pattaya. people just don’t know yet in our market,” The concept is a simple one: to help steer said Sherly Handjojo, Marketing Manager, mass tourism away from well-known to TAT Australia. lesser-known destinations to ease pressure Ms Handjojo explained how Aussies on infrastructure and distribute tourism visiting Bangkok could be urged to venture revenue more evenly throughout the into the capital’s surrounding areas (within Emerging Destinations’, TTM+ 2019 saw 340 country. three hours’ drive) to places like Pattaya, Hua international buyers meet with more than To this end, the Tourism Authority of Hin and Sukhothai. 370 local tourism operators. The event is Thailand (TAT) wants to show visitors that According to figures presented at TTM+, expected to generate around $114 million in there’s much to discover outside its biggest tourism to the 55 designated emerging tourism revenue. tourist hubs. destinations grew by nearly five per cent last Traveltalk attended TTM+ as a guest of TAT Speaking to Traveltalk at the event, TAT year, recording 6,223,183 trips by foreign Australia and stayed at Ana Anan Resort & revealed its ‘A-B-C Strategy’, which aims to tourists. Villas Pattaya. promote emerging destinations through Under the theme, ‘New Shades of ■ tourismthailand.org three broad steps. Mr Klissada Ratanapruk, Executive Director, TAT ASEAN, South Asia and South Pacific Region, said the first part of the AGENTS ARE OUR AMBASSADORS strategy was to connect major destinations WHEN IT comes to booking habits, travel agents still play a “significant role for the to nearby emerging cities (TAT has identified Australian market.” 55 cities that fit this category). That was the message from Sherly Handjojo, Marketing Manager, TAT Australia, at this Examples include better links between year’s Thailand Travel Mart Plus. Chiang Mai and Lamphun and Lampang in While some Aussies are savvy with their technology and making an e-commerce the north, or Pattaya and Chanthaburi and purchase, Ms Handjojo believes “there is still a big market that is not that comfortable to Trat in the east. make the decision for themselves or their own families.” The second part of the initiative is to “That’s why travel agents are still so popular, whether it be an OTA, or a bricks and promote potential emerging cities through mortar agent. their strong ‘identities’. Buri Ram’s appeal “So we are working really closely with wholesalers, airlines and travel agents. ranges from its strong Khmer heritage to its “At the end of the day for us, I feel that travel agents are our ambassadors. That’s where hosting of Grand Prix motorcycling. people come for advice.” Part three involves combining 22 | W W W . T R A V E L T A L K M A G . C O M . A U
COMPETITION
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T R A V E L T A L K J U L Y / A U G U S T 2 0 1 9 | 23You can also read
