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February 7 2020 | ISSUE NO 2,140 | travelbulletin.co.uk Giving agents the edge
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February 7 2020 | ISSUE NO 2,140 | travelbulletin.co.uk Giving agents the edge
AGENT BULLETIN NORDIC TRAVEL JAPAN TECHNOLOGY
Incentives to motivate Food, fjords and festivals in Incredible opportunities for How agents can use big
agents to sell more holidays Norway, Finland, Sweden, Olympic year trips data to boost business
Denmark and Iceland
AIR TRAVEL
Cover pic : © Repina Valeriya
New destinations for exciting holidays
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FEBRUARY 7 2020 | travelbulletin.co.uk NEWS BULLETIN 3
THIS WEEK TV TRAVELLERS
Popular television programmes, such as Love Island, are inspiring
young British travellers to book holidays to destinations such as
South Africa, according to research by Virgin Holidays.
09
AGENT BULLETIN Millennials are keen to book
Incentives and training exciting, Instagrammable
opportunties for motivated agents holidays based on TV shows.
15
EVENT BULLETIN
All the fun of the Africa
Showcase in Southampton
17
AIR TRAVEL
Jet2 launches a bonanza of
destinations from Manchester
AGENTS KEEN to tap into Here moved 15% of millennials will book their
the millennial market might respondents to visit holidays. White sandy
do well to watch more TV − a Australia’s Gold Coast. beaches (40%), crystal clear
survey of 2,000 millennials As well as inspiring long- waters (33%), an infinity pool
by Virgin Holidays found that haul bookings, a bit closer to (24%) and glamorous bars
19 10% of the young
respondents booked a
home, The Only Way Is
Essex influenced 9% to jet
(18%) were all holiday must-
haves for millennials wanting
NORDIC TRAVEL
How your clients can have fun in holiday to South Africa, after off to Marbella. to show off on Instagram.
Finland all year round being inspired by the sun- And it’s not just TV Bucking the trend for inter-
soaked antics of the programmes that are leading generation holidays, 35% of
attractive contestants on to travel bookings. Movies respondents were not
Love Island, the popular ITV2 play a role too. The survey interested in taking the same
reality show. revealed that 18% plan to type of holidays as their
Another programme which book a trip to Croatia parents. In contrast to their
is driving up bookings because of Game of long must-have lists, four in
22 among the younger
demographic is Keeping Up
Thrones, while almost a
quarter (22%) said that
10 of the 2,000 23-to-38-
year-olds polled said all their
JAPAN
Selling holidays for the much- With The Kardashians, with watching musical romcom parents wanted was a good
anticipated 2020 Tokyo Olympics 14% of survey respodents Mama Mia made them plan deal on the price of their
being inspired by the show a trip to Greece. holiday, and 22% said their
to book a trip to Los Angeles. Social media desirability is parents just needed to have
Meanwhile, I’m A another powerful factor in guaranteed sunshine for the
Celebrity, Get Me Out Of determining where holiday of their dreams.
25
TECHNOLOGY @TravelBulletin
020 7834 6661
Published by : Printed by: Buxton Press
Travel agents can use big data to Alain Charles Publishing (Travel) Ltd Subscriptions are £125 p.a. @TravelBulletin
gain a business advantage University House, 11-13 Lower Grosvenor £195 overseas
Place London, SW1W 0EX ISSN: 0956-2419 www.travelbulletin.co.uk Travel_Bulletin
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4 NEWS BULLETIN FEBRUARY 7 2020 | travelbulletin.co.uk
Emerald Yacht Cruises aims for new niche market Viking takes a
liking to new
EMERALD YACHT Cruises is expedition voyages
the latest product for
Emerald Waterways – the VIKING HAS announced an
concept is luxury small yacht expansion of its destination-
cruising with the first focused travel experiences with
departure scheduled for July the launch of new expedition
31, 2021, taking in Cyprus, voyages. The company will begin
Turkey and Greece. It will sailing in January 2022 with its
launch with a bespoke, Emerald is launching intimate luxury yacht cruises next year. first vessel, Viking Octantis,
ocean-going superyacht, the embarking on voyages to
110-metre Emerald Azzura, will have balconies, and safe, bathrobes and Antarctica and North America's
which will be able to reach Oceanview Staterooms will high-end toiletries. As well Great Lakes. A second expedition
small ports not easily have large windows. Main as the Oceanview vessel, Viking Polaris, will debut in
accessible by liners. features include six decks, Stateroom, other cabin August 2022, sailing to Antarctica
Destinations scheduled for buffet-style and á la carte classes are Balcony and the Arctic.
2021-22 include French, dining options, an infinity- Stateroom, Deluxe Balcony
Sicilian and Spanish ports in style pool, two bars, an Stateroom, Terrace Suite,
the Western Mediterranean, observation lounge and Yacht Suite and Owner's
historic ports in the Eastern deck, a zodiac for water Suite. With earlybird
Mediterranean, the Adriatic excursions and platform for discounts, the lead-in price
coast, and Red Sea, with a ocean swimming stops. for the Oceanview
Holy Land itinerary. All cabins will be stateroom is £2,950 for an
Emerald Azzura will take a provided with queen-size or eight-day voyage. Viking's arrival to the Great
maximum of 100 guests in twin beds with Egyptian Agents can order brochures Lakes will bring the newest and
50 cabins, served by 69 crew cotton linen, flatscreen TV, with Tradegate: most modern vessels ever to
members. Of the 50 cabins, free WiFi, individual climate www.omsg.co.uk/trade- explore this region of North
all will have sea views, 80% control, mini-bar, personal gate/web_pages/index.aspx America and will mark a major
commitment to local tourism and
economic development for the
Better air connections for West Africa and Europe states of Michigan, Minnesota and
CAPE VERDEAN airline Cabo Verde Airlines Fortaleza, Porto Alegre, Recife, and Salvador. Wisconsin, as well as the
(CVA) and Africa World Airlines (AWA) This partnership will allow passengers from Canadian province of Ontario.
announced a partnership to boost connectivity both airlines to travel between airlines on one Viking has partnered with
in West Africa with Europe, North America and ticket, checking in only once, and allowing scientific institutions − scientists
South America. An integrated selling baggage to reach the final destination. will undertake fieldwork on board
operation for the routes of both airlines CVA’s stopover programme allows and join voyages to share their
commenced this month. AWA’s passengers travellers to spend up to a week in Cape expertise with guests. Viking has
will be able to connect through CVA’s hub on Verde at no extra cost to the ticket. AWA, also partnered with The Cornell
Sal to destinatoens such as Dakar and the meanwhile, operates out of five cities in Lab of Ornithology, whose
Cape Verdean islands. CVA also runs regular Ghana, as well as Lagos and Abuja in Nigeria, ornithologists will regularly be on
flights to Lisbon, Paris, Milan, Rome, Boston Liberia (Monrovia), Sierra Leone (Freetown) board, providing expert advice and
and Washington DC, and the Brazilian cities of and the Ivory Coast (Abidjan). interaction with guests on birdlife.
Going for Greece with Planet Holidays
LUXURY TOUR operator Planet Holidays has expanded
its 2020 Greece programme adding Lesvos, more
luxury hotels on the islands of Crete, Corfu, Zante,
Kefalonia, Skiathos, Kos, Mykonos, Paros and Santorini
as well as on the mainland in Halkidiki and Pieria, and
Parga in western Greece. One example of a new hotel
featured by Planet Holidays is Parilio In Paros. The
hotel has taken inspiration from the surrounding sea
and rocky landscape in designing to convert this into a
33-suite retreat. Harry Kyrillou of Planet Holidays says
agents can sell flexible itineraries to clients and all
bookings are commissionable.
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FEBRUARY 7 2020 | travelbulletin.co.uk NEWS BULLETIN 5
Jet2 expands Iceland programme The Apex of luxury: First look at
Celebrity Cruise’s new ship
Jet2 is offering more
opportunities to see the
Northern Lights.
JET2.COM AND Jet2CityBreaks have launched a major
expansion to their Iceland programme, meaning they now fly AS CELEBRITY Cruises gets the latest addition to its fleet ship shape, Travel
to Keflavík from all nine UK bases, including a scheduled Bulletin’s features editor Natalie Chalk has a behind-the-scenes glimpse at
service from Birmingham and Manchester Airport for the first the billion-dollar liner in the shipyard in Saint Nazaire.
time. The Apex will be Celebrity Cruises’ first vessel to be launched in the UK
The company will operate twice-weekly services from both in ten years. Measuring 1,004ft long with a cruising speed of 21.8 knots, it
bases on Mondays and Thursdays during the best times to see follows in the wake of Celebrity Edge, marking the second ship in the Edge
the Northern Lights (October 1-November 23 and February 11- Series. The brand has a history of pushing the envelope with technology
April 26). In addition, Jet2.com and Jet2CityBreaks has and luxury and they’ve done it yet again.
expanded its programme of dedicated trips to Iceland, Inside, there’s a dazzling three-deck chandelier hanging in the Grand
launching trips from Belfast, Edinburgh and London Stansted. Plaza which took more than 15,000 hours to design and build. The Theatre
has state-of-the-art technology and seating for 940 guests, offering three
shows – Rockumentary, Tree of Life and Crystalize – created just for the
Portugal ready for post-Brexit Brits Apex, including performances from the a capella band Straight No Chaser.
IN READINESS for the Brexit transition period, which has It also offers a first-at-sea with F45 Training, a fitness workout built
now come into force, the EU has appointed Portuguese around 45-minute, station-based, training. There are new and first spa
diplomat Joao Vale de Almeida as the first post-Brexit envoy offerings, including more than 120 treatments and a collection of the latest
in London. According to the withdrawal agreement, the UK treatment tables, highlighted by the unique Iyashi Dôme, the original
will remain under EU law in the transition period, foreseen Japanese infrared sauna that deeply cleanses and detoxifies the body.
to be until December 31, unless another extension is Also new is the Craft Social Bar with a selection of beers, wines and
granted. All existing rights of UK and EU citizens will be in cocktails on tap, served by a certified beer sommelier.
place, including free movement, so travel plans during this Eden is a brand new dining experience which changes its atmosphere
period should remain unaffected. each night with pop-up entertainment.
In regard to Portugal in particular, British tourists visiting Menu offerings come from Celebrity’s Michelin-starred chef Cornelius
Portugal will continue to have access to the Portugal Health Gallagher, who puts flavour ahead of fancy presentation.
Service throughout the transition period. Even under a no- Similar to its sister ship, there’s the floating Magic Carpet which is
deal scenario, the Portuguese government initiated cantilevered off the ship's side and moves between the decks inviting
contingency measures in March 2019 to protect UK visitors guests to eat, drink and soar over the sea up to deck 16. It’s also used as
who need to access healthcare while on holiday. the platform to take passengers to the tenders and take them ashore.
Turismo de Portugal has launched the #Brelcome After our first-look tour, Celebrity Cruises cut the steel in a ceremony
campaign, which includes a health campaign aimed at marking the building of its third Edge ship, Beyond.
British medical tourists. Portugal will offer healthcare Celebrity Apex will be christened on March 30 and debuts in
services to Britons at three private providers for a fixed Southampton on April 1. It will embark on a mini-season of five sailings to
price. The services are available now and will be offered to European destinations, including the Norwegian Fjords, the northern coasts
UK tourists irrespective of the Brexit outcome. of Spain and Portugal and a new 10-night Capital Cities Cruise with visits to
UK driving licences will be valid during the transition iconic cities including Amsterdam, Copenhagen, Oslo and Paris. It will then
period, foreseen until the end of December. An International spend the rest of its inaugural summer sailing seven- to-12-night itineraries
Driving Permit, GB sticker or Green Card will not be required in the Mediterranean, before repositioning to Fort Lauderdale in November
during this period. In the event of a no-deal Brexit, the for a winter season of week-long Caribbean sailings.
Portuguese government will seek a mutual arrangement Book before March 3 to make the most of Celebrity Cruises January
with the UK. Sale, which includes sailings on Celebrity Apex.
www.celebritycruises.com/cruise-ships/celebrity-apex
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6 NEWS BULLETIN FEBRUARY 7 2020 | travelbulletin.co.uk
Variety is the spice of Cyplon life with yacht cruises Korean Air takes
action on
CYPLON HOLIDAYS has coronavirus outbreak
added Variety Cruises to
their growing cruise KOREAN AIR is taking measures to
portfolio. Variety Cruises ensure the safety of passengers,
specialise in personalised as the number of the new
yacht voyages across coronavirus cases rises in China.
a range of itineraries, All flights between Seoul’s
including Greece, Incheon airport and Wuhan have
Egypt-Israel-Jordan, the been suspended until at least
Adriatic Sea, Spain- Portugal, March 27. Additionally, the airline
and Southeast Asia. is suspending or reducing the
There is a selection of frequency of some of its routes to
vessels available, ranging China in line with falling demand
from mega yachts to motor due to the coronavirus.
sailers, with itineraries The airline has formed an
aimed at offering immersive emergency response team to deal
experiences, and unique with the spread of the new
shore excursions to connect coronavirus and set up a thorough
with local culture, history process to preempt the possibility
and traditions in a small of infection with all relevant
Variety Cruises offers a fascinating array of vessels.
group setting. departments involved, including
Additionally, these cruises the airport service office, flight
include leisure time in each seven-night ‘Jewels of the April 17, based on a twin operations, cabin crew operations,
port, swimming platforms for Cyclades’ cruise on board cabin shared by two people. maintenance, aeromedical centre
diving off the yacht and fine the MS Galileo from £2,999 For more details, go to and the operations control division.
cuisine by internationally per person. The offer www.cyplon.co.uk/holidays/
acclaimed chefs. includes flights with EasyJet cruise-holidays/variety-
A sample package is a from Gatwick, departing cruises
Butlin’s is here to entertain families at half-term
FAMILIES CAN still book late deals for half- Paddington will be performing live, and a
term at Butlin’s with offers available between pantomime will feature, with The Little
February 14-24 priced from £169 per family. Merrmaid on the 2020 entertainment
Guests can take a three-night February half schedule. Written by the award-winning John Onboard, measures to prevent
term break at Minehead Resort, Somerset, Monie, winner of the Great British Pantomime infection include using disposable
starting from £169 per family, based on two Award’s scriptwriter prize, the tale includes cutlery which will be disposed of
adults and two children people sharing a special effects and stunning costumes. in sealed bags, meals will be
Silver Room when arriving on February 21. From the world of TV, the kids can enjoy loaded from Incheon, staff will
Live evening entertainment is available performances from the Teletubbies. wear masks and gloves, and
across all February half term breaks, including For more information or to book a Butlin’s disinfection has been stepped up.
ventriloquist Paul Zerdin and his puppet break, go to www.BourneLeisureSales.co.uk Refund penalties and fees for
character friends. or call 0845 070 4742. changing flights will be waived.
Book soon for bold and brilliant Brazil Carnival trips
CLIENTS KEEN to experience Brazil’s famous Carnival celebrations will
need to book soon with this year’s event taking place from February
22-26. In Rio de Janeiro, the streets are overtaken by hundreds of block
parties with a soundtrack made up of everything from traditional
carnival marches to rock music. The Carnival of Salvador, meanwhile,
has a strong music focus and the party can last for four days nonstop.
And in Olinda and Recife, the neighbouring cities celebrate with
elaborate decorations, including giant dolls, with everyone welcome to
join in the festivities.
For more information, go to www.visitbrasil.com
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FEBRUARY 7 2020 | travelbulletin.co.uk NEWS BULLETIN 7
Scotland is the top of the tracks for rail voyages El Al to connect
GREAT RAIL Journeys (GRJ) Dublin and Tel Aviv
Scenic Scotland is
and Rail Discoveries have
ideal for rail journeys.
revealed their top trends for EL AL will be launching a new
rail holidays, as they gear up direct route connecting Dublin
for a busy 2020 with train to Tel Aviv on May 26. The
travel increasing in popularity. flights will operate on Sunday,
Scotland and the UK Tuesday and Thursday on a
proved the most popular in Boeing 737 aircraft with
2019, and this trend is Economy and Business
expected to continue this classes available.
year. Departing March 29, Traditionally, flights
GRJ is offering an nine-day between Ireland and Israel
trip taking in Edinburgh, the were mainly for pilgrimage
Highlands and Islands from purposes, but the Israel
£1,295 per person, including Government Tourist Office
hotel accomodation, hopes that opening up Tel Aviv
breakfasts and dinners, days and is priced from Other popular rail to Dublin will attract visitors
including a traditional £1,995 per person, departing destinations for the companies interested in the coastal city’s
Scottish farewell dinner. on September 10. include Spain, Switzerland, food scene, cultural
India came in second and In third position is Italy, with Eastern Europe and Vietnam. attractions and vibrant
for 2020, the company is Rail Discoveries offering the For more information, go nightlife, as well as drawing in
keen to promote Five-Star Puglia All Inclusive 2020 tour, to www.raildiscoveries.com more business travellers to Tel
India’s Golden Triangle, which is priced from £1,349 or call 01904 734 939, and Aviv’s growing tech scene.
Tigers & Shimla 2020 rail per person, running over eight www.greatrail.com or call www.elal.com
tour. The itinerary runs for 14 days, departing on May 13. 01904 527180.
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8 NEWS BULLETIN FEBRUARY 7 2020 | travelbulletin.co.uk
All aboard Queen Mary 2 for a literary voyage
FOLLOWING THE success
last year of the Literature Prue Leith will be among
the authors on board.
NEWSbites
Festival at Sea, aboard
(Image:
Cunard’s Queen Mary 2, the
TaylorHerring/Flickr)
HOTEL BITES
event returns to the world’s
only operational ocean liner • SIXTEEN FLOATING four-storey
for 2020. hotels will be built in Qatar to cater
Setting sail from to demand during the 2022 FIFA
Southampton on December 1 World Cup. Each Katara Hospitality
and travelling to New York, the hotel will be identical, offering a
festival is back, in conjunction total of 1,616 rooms.
with the programming team
of the Cheltenham Literature •MARRIOTT INTERNATIONAL will
Festival, who will be curating be opening a new St Regis
the 2020 event. property in the New Administrative
Guests can participate in Capital of Egypt, just outside Cairo
workshops and hear from the Queen Mary 2. I love said: “On the great liners of in the second quarter of this year.
award-winning authors, literary festivals because the the past, people had time to
including Prue Leith, Ian audience are interesting read books and talk about
Rankin, Alexander McCall readers, and one’s fellow them. What a magnificent
Smith, Kate Mosse, Joanne speakers are, like me, thing it is that Cunard has
Harris, poet, playwright and delighted to take a break decided to recreate this. I
novelist Simon Armitage, from solitary writing and join look forward immensely to
comedy poet Pam Ayers and the chatting, eating, drinking meeting readers, talking
former MP-turned author real world − if a luxury liner about books, and watching •ONOMO HOTELS continues its
Alan Johnson. par excellence can be called the broad Atlantic go by.” expansion into southern Africa
Prue Leith said, “It’s been a the real world.” See www.cunard.com for with the opening of a new hotel in
dream to cross the pond on Alexander McCall Smith more information. Maputo, the capital of
Mozambique, a growing
destination for safari holidays.
easyJet and Amadeus still working in harmony
• THE RADISSON Hotel Group
EASYJET AND Amadeus have renewed their easyJet will sell its range of products and has announced plans to open a
partnership so travel agents can continue to seats through agents. Amadeus has 90-room hotel in Liepaja, Latvia,
access the budget airline’s range of fares. The supported easyJet’s growth of bookings via in an art deco building, and a hotel
renewed distribution agreement builds on a the Amadeus Travel Platform and its global apartments development in the
longstanding partnership to support easyJet’s travel agency network year-over-year. Ghala Heights area of Muscat, the
multi-channel strategy to drive bookings, Thomas Haagensen, group markets director capital of Oman.
particularly for business travellers. at easyJet, said the partnership with Amadeus
The distribution agreement aims to ensure will enable the airline to “leverage light
easy access for agents to book the airline’s ticketing while making key fares and
range of business-friendly products such as ancilliaries available along with our corporate
Inclusive and FLEXI Fares. Through the negotiated fares.”
continued use of Amadeus’ XML technology, For more on technology, turn to page 25.
Anguilla sets ambitious tourism targets for 2020
THE ANGUILLA Tourist Board (ATB) expects to welcome 95,000
tourists in 2020, after meeting its 2019 target of exceeding 2016
figures by 20%. ATB chairperson, Donna Daniels-Banks, said the
board has set another tourist arrivals target of 20% on last year’s
figures and 69% average occupancy. The northern Caribbean island
has 33 beaches, a vibrant culinary scene, a variety of accommodation
options at different pricepoints and an exciting calendar of festivals,
such as the Anguilla Summer Festival, which has a carnival
atmosphere, scheduled to be held from August 2-9 this year.
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FEBRUARY 7 2020 | travelbulletin.co.uk AGENT BULLETIN 9
AGENT TRAINING
VISIT ORLANDO, in association with its partners at Walt Disney
World Resort Florida, SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment and
Universal Orlando Resort, will hold a series of travel agent training
roadshows in eight cities across the UK. The 2020 Visit Orlando
Roadshow will provide the latest updates on what’s new in the
theme park capital of the world, including new hotels, attractions
and experiences. The event will include an expanded Visit Orlando
Marketplace. It will provide an opportunity for agents to increase
their knowledge through one-on-one meetings with more of the
city's hotel and attraction partners. Attendees will have the
chance to win various prizes, including a place on the 2020 Visit
Orlando Super Fam or two tickets to Dua Lipa’s “Future
Nostalgia” arena tour. VisitOrlandoEvent.cvent.com/Roadshow20
AGENT INCENTIVES
● AGENTS CAN win a Lifestyle voucher worth £100 with
Hoseasons’ latest agent giveaway. Eight vouchers worth £100 TAHITI TOURISME UK has taken agents from Hayes &
each are up for grabs. They can be spent at more than 120 of the Jarvis, ITC Travel, Luxtripper and Trailfinders for a
UK’s top retailers, including John Lewis, Odeon cinemas, week long fam trip. The itinerary covered the French
Topshop, Ticketmaster and ASOS. To be in with a chance of Polynesian islands of Tahiti, Moorea and Bora Bora
winning one of the Lifestyle vouchers, agents need to register and Tikehau. During a visit to the cultural centre in
every Hoseasons booking made between now and February 23, Moorea, the group learnt how to weave traditional
2020. They should email their booking reference number to bags and make the traditional Tahitian dish, poisson
agency.sales@hoseasons.co.uk along with their name, agency cru. Pictured are, left to right, Tola Arogundade, Ben
name and ABTA. A winner will be drawn each week. Whitehead, Julie Yearsley and Theresa McCauley.
www.hoseasons.co.uk/assets/2020instyle.pdf
● AGENTS BOOKING any Paul Gauguin’s 2020 cruise will earn a
£100 Lifestyle voucher. There is no limit to the number of
bookings. All bookings must be made between now and
February 29. www.pgcruises.com
● TRAVEL AGENTS can earn £75 per booking with Crystal Cruises’
new agent incentive throughout February. The incentive is valid
for any 2020 Mediterranean sailing booked between now and
February 29. There is no limit to the number of bookings on this
incentive. www.crystalcruises.co.uk
COMPETITIONS!
NEW: Win a place aboard
Scarlet Lady for you and a
friend with Virgin Voyages
Win flights with
Air New Zealand and
Singapore Airlines
Seven nights all-inclusive stay for
two people at the Bahia Principe
Sunlight Tenerife up for grabs
FOR ALL COMPETITIONS
ON THE SITE VISIT
travelbulletin.co.uk/competitionsS03 TB 0702 2020 News 2_Layout 1 04/02/2020 17:07 Page 10
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FEBRUARY 7 2020 | travelbulletin.co.uk PUZZLE BULLETIN 11
Win a £50 M&S voucher in the
Su Doku prize puzzle A
SUDOKU
Fill in all the squares in the grid so that each row, column and
each of the 3 x 3 squares contains the digits 1-9.
Once you have completed the puzzle, simply identify the
numbers that relate to the letters, A, B, C and D then e-mail B
the solution, with your name, company name, and full postal
address plus phone and ABTA number if applicable to:
competition@travelbulletin.co.uk C
Closing date for entries is Thursday, February 13th. Solution
and new puzzle will appear next week.
The winner for January 24th is
David Sneddon, Ian Dickson Travel Ltd in Edinburgh.
January 24th Solution: A=9 B=6 C=7 D=1
D
A M I ?
WHER E
Straddling the River
Danube in a European
capital city, this bridge
separates the city into two
distinct halves. It was
designed by English
engineer William Tierney
Clark in 1839. Construction
started in 1840 and
concluded in 1849.
Fill in the crossword to reveal the mystery location highlighted by the green squares.
CROSSWORD
Across Down
1. Major airline with HQ in Atlanta (5) 1. Actor starring in, The Personal History of
3. Cruise ship, Disney ___ (5) David Copperfield (3,5)
5. This Palace is a major tourist attraction in 2. Flows through South America (6)
France (10) 3. Capital of The Maldives (4)
8. Financial protection scheme for travellers, 4. Flemish city (5)
initially (4) 6. Country, initially (3)
9. Mount ___ is the highest volcano in 7. David, recently seen collecting his
Europe (4) National Television Award, minus his
11. Jane Austen novel, now a movie, releasing trousers (8)
on St Valentine's Day (4) 10. Altrincham based company, ___ World
13. A judge on The Great British Bake Off, ___ Travel (6)
Leith (4) 12. Venice international airport,
16. Capital of Slovakia (10) ___ Polo (5)
17. The slowest mammal on earth (5) 14. Taiwanese carrier ___ Air (3)
18. South American mountain range (5) 15. Salt Lake City is the state capital (4)
Where am I? - Széchenyi Chain Bridge, Budapest Mystery Word: AMERICA
Down: 1. DEV PATEL, 2. AMAZON, 3. MALE, 4. GHENT, 6. RSA, 7. WALLIAMS, 10. CRESTA, 12. MARCO, 14. EVA, 15. UTAH.
Across: 1. DELTA, 3. MAGIC, 5. VERSAILLES, 8. ATOL, 9. ETNA, 11. EMMA, 13. PRUE, 16. BRATISLAVA, 17. SLOTH, 18. ANDES.
Solution:S03 TB 0702 2020 News 2_Layout 1 04/02/2020 17:07 Page 12
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HEADLINE SPONSOR
AFRICA SHOWCASE
Southampton was the destination for the first
showcase of 2020, with Africa as the theme.
The Leonardo Royal Southampton Grand
Harbour was the venue and 59 agents enjoyed
presentations and networking opportunities
from a range of suppliers from across the
fascinating African continent. Sanctuary
Retreats was the headline sponsor and all
suppliers provided great prizes for the agents,
including flights, champagne, chocolates, spa
hampers, goodie bags and afternoon teas.
Want to get in on the #TBShowcases action?
Our next event will be the LGBT Travel Showcase taking place in Brighton on February 24th. To confirm your
place or find out when we will be hosting our next event near you contact events@travelbulletin.co.ukS04 TB 0702 2020 Air Travel_Layout 1 04/02/2020 16:35 Page 16
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AIR TRAVEL
JET2 MORE Finland’s big electric
aircraft ambitions
THE FINNISH airport operator
DESTINATIONS Finavia has joined a Nordic initiative
that plans to fly electric planes on
its domestic routes before the end
of the decade. The Network for
FROM MANCHESTER Electric Aviation is where Nordic
organistions work to accelerate the
introduction of electric aviation.
THE LEISURE airline and Since 2018, Finavia has been
package holiday specialist funding a fully electric aircraft. It
JET2 has announced details had a successful test flight at
of its latest expansion at Malmi Airport in Helsinki in 2018.
Manchester Airport. Joining the NEA is the next step in
It has added more services contributing to the development of
during the peak summer electric flying and a part of Finavia’s
holiday season to popular climate programme which aims to
destinations including cut CO2 emissions at the airports.
Canaries (Tenerife and Henri Hansson of Finavia said: “I
Fuerteventura), Balearics believe that in Finland, the first
(Majorca – Palma Cathedral electric passenger aircraft will fly on
pictured, right – and a domestic route by the end of
Menorca), mainland Spain 2020s. If a clean method such as
(Alicante), Portugal (Faro), wind or solar power is used to
Turkey (Dalaman and produce the necessary electricity,
Antalya), Greece (Corfu and the electric aircraft of the future
Crete – Heraklion), Italy Airport, including ten new Jet2.com and Jet2holidays, could fly completely emission-free.
(Naples) and Bulgaria destinations, six of which are said: “Alongside all the Electric aircraft will be suited
(Bourgas). This means it now in Greece. They are: benefits that make customers especially for short routes”.
has more than 3.5 million Mykonos, Skiathos, Santorini, choose us time and time The NEA consists of partners such
seats on sale this summer. Kalamata (Peloponnese), again, we are looking as Nordic airport operators, Nordic
In recent months, Jet2.com Preveza, Lesvos, Tivat forward to an exciting airlines and start-ups specialised in
and Jet2holidays has made a (Montenegro), Zadar (Croatia), summer filling our aircraft electric aviation.
number of announcements Lisbon (Portugal) and with happy holidaymakers.” www.finavia.fi/en
regarding its Summer 20 Innsbruck (Austria). www.jet2.com For more on Nordic travel, turn to
programme from Manchester Steve Heapy, CEO of www.jet2holidays.com. page 19.S04 TB 0702 2020 Air Travel_Layout 1 04/02/2020 16:35 Page 18
18 AIR TRAVEL FEBRUARY 7 2020 | travelbulletin.co.uk
Turkish Airlines launches first direct flight from Fastest trans-Atlantic
Birmingham to Antalya flight to Nova Scotia
MANCHESTER AIRPORT has
revealed its quickest-ever
trans-Atlantic route will take off on
June 5. Direct flights with WestJet
will fly to Halifax, Nova Scotia in
Canada, operating from the Northern
gateway for the first time.
The service will cross the Atlantic
in a little over six hours on the way to
Halifax, and five hours on the return.
The flights will depart at 9.45am
on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday
and Saturday, arriving into Halifax at
11.52am local time. On the return trip,
they will leave Halifax
on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and
Sunday arriving at Manchester
Airport at 08.10am the following day.
TURKISH AIRLINES, which flies to more Europe’s first fully illuminated golf course. It will be Manchester Airport’s
countries than any other carrier, has announced Turkish Airlines has a long history of shortest long-haul route and is the
that it will be operating direct flights from supporting golf in the region, sponsoring latest addition to its departure
Birmingham to Antalya, starting on June 3. the European Tour’s Turkish Airlines Open board, with services to Dhaka,
Return fares will start from £216, for all in November each year, consequently one Sylhet, Shanghai and Boston
inclusive. Flights will depart from Birmingham of the offerings to passengers is the chance already announced for this year.
and will be operated twice a week on to fly one full set of golf clubs, free of Halifax is the capital of the
Wednesdays and Saturdays. charge on all flights. Canadian province of Nova Scotia and
Resting on Turkey’s popular Turquoise Omer Faruk Alier, Turkish Airlines’ is a major economic centre with a
Coast, Antalya is an outstanding resort that director in Birmingham, said: “Whether large concentration of government
mixes Mediterranean fishing villages with holiday makers or golfing enthusiasts, we and private sector companies.
natural wonders. Known as the ‘gateway to the are keen to help all our passengers widen The route will enable passengers
Turkish Riviera’, Antalya is characterised by its their world with Turkish Airlines.” to connect onto a wide range of
sandy sweeps of shore that are embraced by a For more information, go to services to other Canadian
coastline touched by jade waters. It also boasts www.turkishairlines.com or destinations, such as Ottawa,
some of the best golfing attractions with call 0203 991 1993 Calgary and Edmonton.
Halifax's tourism industry
showcases Nova Scotia's culture,
Non-stop flight from Stansted
scenery and coastline. There are
to Istanbul with AnadoluJet several museums and art galleries
ANADOLUJET WILL operate from in downtown Halifax.
London Stansted to Sabiha Gökçen Just outside the urban area, the
Aiport, Turkey, starting on March 29. iconic Peggys Cove is
All flights will be operated by the internationally recognised and
airline’s Boeing 737 aircraft.
receives more than WestJet
AnadoluJet has been a trademark of
already has several routes to the UK
Turkish Airlines since 2008, providing
but this is the airline’s first from
affordable domestic flights to more
than 100 million passengers for more Manchester Airport.
than 11 years. This year will see its Together with WestJet's regional
flight network expand internationally, airlines, WestJet Encore and
with an additional 26 destinations in 16 WestJet Link, the airline offers
countries to be added to its schedule. scheduled services to more than
Later this year, the airline’s network will 110 destinations in North America,
expand to 108 routes across 67 Central America, the Caribbean and
destinations (including domestic flights) Europe, and to more than 250
serviced by its fleet of 57 aircraft.
destinations in over 20 countries
www.anadolujet.com/en
through its airline partnerships.
or call 0203 991 1993.
www.westjet.comS05 TB 0702 2020 Nordic Travel_Layout 1 04/02/2020 14:47 Page 19
NORDIC TRAVEL
SUSTAINABILITY FIRST
Natalie Chalk visits Finland as it makes a green tourism pledge to become
the leading sustainable travel destination by 2025
THE HAPPIEST country in the world from the WWF list. measure available to fight climate change.
(according to the UN) has taken on the New hotel projects such as the They will be CO2 free this year and plan to
challenge of becoming one of the most boutique Folks Hotel in the emerging be CO2 negative next year by planting
eco-friendly on the planet. Finland aims to Vallila district, will use local products, trees and restoring the swamps that were
be the leading country of sustainable reduce bathroom packaging, and remove drained in the 1930s. They use mostly
travel by 2025. That was the pledge set at plastic bottled water instead offering tap wood, as little concrete as possible, and
The Matka Nordic Travel, the largest travel water. In front of the hotel they’ll offer serve mainly plant-based food.
industry event in Northern Europe, which spaces for electric cars. The four-star hotel Co-owner Matti Ala-Outinen said that
saw a record 68,300 visitors in January, is set to open in this summer. sustainability is not just a problem for
with attendees from around the world. At Metsä/Skogen store and Mushroom governments to solve but that “we all
Experts and business leaders gathered bar restaurant, they have set up a multi- have to take every step possible to stop
to share their insights and solutions on sensory experience with sounds and climate change”.
how to bring about cooperation and sights from Finnish forests. They sell
FASTfacts
change across the industry. sustainable clothing, wellness products
With Helsinki and Espoo already and serve mainly vegan dishes created by
suffering the impact of climate change, chef Sami Tallberg who forages locally.
Finnish tourism bosses are looking to The chaga and mushroom cappuccino is
restore the balance by putting the their hot drink sensation that’ll boost and
protection of the environment warm up your insides. Currency: Euro
alongside economic growth. At Hawkhill in Espoo, taking care of £1 is €1.18
Changes have already begun at Helsinki nature is their number one priority. The
Airport, which has decreased its emissions eco-resort is surrounded by Nuuksio Time difference with Helsinki
by 3% per passenger on average in the National Park where you’ll find hares, +2 GMT
last 10 years. It also sees 70% of green deers, moose, beers and wolves. The
landings, meaning that pilots use less fuel family-run firm has put the wellbeing of Approx flight time to Helsinki
on descent. natural forest above profits by not from the UK:
Taking up the challenge in the capital marketing their log cabins to the US or Approx 2hrs 50mins
are hotels, shops and restaurants with Asia, where visitors would have to use a
many placing sustainability at the core of plane to travel from another continent. There are around 3 million saunas in
their business. They have made reconnecting to nature Finland and a population of 5.2 million
At restaurant Natura, which opened in a priority for guests and have also
April 2016, they serve up to 80% game switched from renewables to nuclear Finland has 180,000 lakes
meat and for seafood, they source only energy to ensure they’ve taken everyS05 TB 0702 2020 Nordic Travel_Layout 1 04/02/2020 14:47 Page 20
20 NORDIC TRAVEL FEBRUARY 7 2020 | travelbulletin.co.uk
SWEDEN’S Top tips on tipples
with Fred. Olsen
FRED. OLSEN Cruise Lines is offering
SECOND CITY guests ‘Free Drinks & Tips’ on more
than 120 cruises from April
to December on all new bookings
Microbreweries, a beer festival and a new hiking trail, all in the made up to February 4, with prices
world’s most sustainable city Gothenburg starting at £599 per person.
This gives guests the chance to
take advantage of its all-inclusive
drinks upgrade aboard its entire
ocean fleet – Balmoral, Braemar,
Boudicca and Black Watch.
Your clients can enjoy selected
house wines, beers, spirits and soft
drinks all day and evening, without
the added hassle of settling a bar
bill, plus all gratuities will be paid by
Fred. Olsen.
Fred. Olsen is also offering ‘Free
Tips & Dining Drinks’ on a number
SWEDEN’S TASTE for beer has grown In 2019 a completely new hiking trail, the of Brabant European river cruises in
substantially and, as a result, microbreweries Gotaleden, was opened – a 71km route with 2020, along the Rhine, Main, Danube
are now popping up around the country – nine different legs, linking the centre of and Moselle, giving guests the same
with 380 at the last count. Gothenburg with the ‘café town’ of Alingsås. selection of all-inclusive drinks
More than half of these are to be found in Boutique-style hotel, Nääs Fabriker has created available on its ocean sailings, when
Gothenburg, where demand for great beer is a special hiking package, including overnight served with lunch and dinner, with
particularly high, driven by the youthful stay on a bed and breakfast basis, entrance to the added extra of all gratuities being
population and thriving local dining scene. its bath house (with jacuzzi, pool and sauna to paid by Fred. Olsen.
The city now has an annual beer festival, GBG release those aching muscles), and a welcome Fred. Olsen’s ‘Cruise Sale’ includes
Beer Week, each spring (March 27 - April 4). smoothie and energy bar. Prices start from a number of dedicated solo deals,
However, the southern Swedish region of SEK 1,200 (£96) per person per night. with no single supplement on
Skåne and its capital city Malmö is hot on its Also, for the fourth year running, the city was selected rooms and cruises in 2020.
heels, with numerous craft breweries starting named the world’s most sustainable city, by the An example of the ocean and
up and a brand new Great Swedish Beer Global Destination Sustainability Index 2019. In river itineraries included in Fred.
Festival. the second of which will be held addition, the European Commission crowned Olsen’s new ‘Cruise Sale’ include:
in October. www.greatswedishbeerfestival.se Gothenburg the “European Capital of Smart Black Watch’s 11-night W2013
The city also has a constantly growing and Tourism 2020” for its smart, innovative and ‘Norwegian Fjords with National
evolving restaurant scene. Located on the inclusive approaches to tourism development. Day in Oslo’ cruise, ex-Liverpool,
west coast of Sweden, seafood has long been One such initiative is the new ‘Next to departing on May 12. Prices start
Gothenburg’s speciality and a new fish bar Gothenburg’ campaign, encouraging visitors from £1,699 per person.
makes the most of these authentic flavours, to stay longer in the region and explore www.fredolsencruises.com/travel-
inspired by the ports of the world and serving places outside the city using public transport. agent-centre/ Trade Support Team on
them up street-food style. www.goteborg.com 01473 746164.
Head north with Nordic Visitor
NORDIC VISITOR is the expert for planning travel experiences in the North.
They work with travel agencies, tour operators and home-based travel agents
all around the world to arrange high-quality holidays tailored to clients’
unique needs. Their destinations include Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Lapland,
Greenland, Svalbard, Denmark, Finland, Faroe Islands and Scotland.
Most of their tour packages are commissionable except those on special offer
(including Early Bird), on day tour-only bookings or on optional activities that
are added to tour packages.
Nordic Visitor also provides travellers with a 24/7 emergency helpline for the
duration of their trip. Furthermore, they only handpick accommodation in the
most desirable locations and all of service providers are chosen for their high
standards and friendly service.
www.nordicvisitor.comS05 TB 0702 2020 Nordic Travel_Layout 1 04/02/2020 14:47 Page 21
FEBRUARY 7 2020 | travelbulletin.co.uk NORDIC TRAVEL 21
FOOD AND FESTIVALS Discover the
Norwegian Fjords
with Regent Holidays
IN DENMARK AHEAD OF celebrating 50 years of
trading next year, Regent Holidays
has compiled its portfolio into a
The Danes don’t wait for the warmer months to head to a festival supersize brochure, showcasing an
with everything from dining to dancing on offer. array of new experiences,
including long Nordic adventures.
DATING BACK more than four decades, locations throughout Denmark. With 16 new trips for 2020
Copenhagen’s annual Jazz Festival is Also Danish restaurants have their own spread across 13 destinations, the
renowned across Europe and recognised as festival, known as Dining Week, which is the brochure has rail journeys across
one of Denmark’s biggest music events. biggest of its kind in northern Europe, and Scandinavia and action-packed
The festival takes place in July every year 2020 marks the 10th annual festival. Arctic wilderness itineraries.
and includes more than 1,300 concerts. The concept is simple; throughout the The Best of the Fjords is an 11-
Happily, during three weeks in February, the festival’s 10 days, more than 200 day tailor-made tour covering three
smaller winter version of the festival restaurants across 50 Danish cities and of Norway's most iconic fjords and
expands beyond the borders of the capital towns offer a three-course menu at a two of the country’s wildest
and takes on the whole country. In 2020, special price of DKK 215 (approx £25). The railway routes including the Flåm
Winter Jazz celebrates its 20th festival, and restaurants span from classic Danish, to Railway – one of the steepest train
this one includes around 600 concerts at Japanese, to Italian, so there should be lines in the world. Prices from
150 venues around the country. It is a great something for every taste. £2,085 per person.
opportunity to see young, Danish jazz Dining Week takes place February 7 – 16
groups and talents from across the globe. throughout Denmark.
Winter Jazz takes place until February 20 in diningweek.dk
New in Scandinavia and Arctic
Circle is the Sisimiut and the
Erfalik Wilderness Lodge. Guests
can uncover Greenland's hinterland
and local wildlife on a six-day stay
while based in a remote lodge for
the chance to go fishing for Arctic
char and hiking in search of sea
eagles, foxes and hare. Prices start
from £4,305 per person.
There’s also Finland’s Golden
Triangle by Train for a sustainable
multi-centre break where rail
enthusiasts can join an eight-day
tour riding local trains to three of
Finland’s principal cities to see
Helsinki’s cultural landmarks,
unwind in one of Tampere’s public
saunas and explore Turku’s
medieval structures. Prices start
from £835 per person.
www.regent-holidays.co.uk
020 7666 1244.S06 TB 0702 2020 Japan_Layout 1 04/02/2020 14:40 Page 22
JAPAN.
THE OLYMPICS − AND MORE
Japan is gearing up for Tokyo 2020 but there’s still plenty of
sightseeing, culture, cuisine and nature to squeeze in.
THE OLYMPIC and Paralympic Games Spa packages start from £1,227. during the winter months, having
are taking place in Tokyo this summer. ● Tokyo 2020 Nippon Festival has been previously been held between summer
From July through to September, the created to build energy around the and autumn.
country hosts the Games, with an Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic The theme of the festival is ‘Of Roots
estimated 206 nations participating in Games. The festival welcomes people and Clouds’ and will promote local
the grand opening in Tokyo. Thirty-three and cultures from around Japan and creativity via contemporary and media
sports will be taking place with five new beyond to interact and celebrate the art whilst promoting what the city has to
ones being added to the list this year – Games. Events will be organised to offer other than snow and winter.
baseball/softball, karate, skateboarding, encourage diversity and regeneration japan.travel/en/uk
sports climbing and surfing. in the Tohoku region, opening new
FASTfacts
Away from the Games, Japan is a gateways and introducing new
year around destination with events and possibilities for Japan.
new launches taking place from ● Beyond the Games is the Japan Cup
competitive cycling to the much Cycle Road Race on October 18.
anticipated Art Triennales. Japan also The Japan Cup Cycle is a premier
has an overwhelming amount to offer in cycling race that attracts thousands of Currency: Yen
terms of sightseeing, culture, cuisine, fans each year and a host of Tour de £1 is ¥142.5
nature and in particular, sports. France competitor teams take part in the
Here’s a roundup of some of the best race. The circuit goes around UK Time difference with Tokyo
bits before and after the Games: Utsunomiya and Mount Kogashiyama. It +9 GMT
● Palace Hotel Tokyo is getting into the is the traditional end-of-season event in
spirit of wellness in line with the the sport, showcasing unique Japanese No visa is required for British travellers.
Olympic and Paralympic Games 2020. landscapes and towns.
The hotel has set up a wellness ● The Sapporo International Art Festival The Olympics begin on July 24.
getaway that comes with an à la carte takes place from December 19, 2020
menu of fitness pursuits to refresh until February 4, 2021. Medals for Tokyo 2020 have been made
the mind and body and allow visitors SIAF is an artistic event held in from 5,000 recycled mobile phones.
to experience the city in an active Sapporo every three years. Going into
healthy way. its third year SIAF2020 will be heldS06 TB 0702 2020 Japan_Layout 1 04/02/2020 14:40 Page 23
FEBRUARY 7 2020 | travelbulletin.co.uk JAPAN 23
Step by step through Setouchi Journeys for the
family with
G Adventures
G ADVENTURES has a new trip to
Japan, set to see first departures
in June as part of the new National
Geographic Family Journeys.
The focus is offering families of
all shapes and sizes immersive and
educational trips to twelve
destinations with activities
focusing on experiences everyone
can enjoy together.
There’s a traditional Taiko
THERE ARE a number of incredible hiking springs of Arima Onsen, as well as the cities Drumming Class, where the family
routes around the Setouchi region, from easy of Osaka and Kobe. will learn how these traditional
ambles around the islands to more wooden drums are made and
adventurous treks with several different Kagawa − Mt. Ilnoyama different playing techniques. The
mountains to climb. Here are some of the best. Mt. Ilnoyama, also known as ‘Sanuki Fuji’, is Okinawa Cooking Class is where the
located in the Marugame area of north family will prepare traditional dishes
Ehime − Mt. Ishizuchi and Mt Kamegamoi Kagawa. Ilnyama is a 422-metre-high originating from the Japanese island
Found in the Saijo area of Ehime Prefecture mountain that is designated as the Seto reputed to have the highest life
stands Mt. Ishizuchi and Mt Kamegamoi. Mt. Inland Sea National Park. The area is dotted expectancy in the world. A Sumo
Ishizuchi is one of Japan's seven sacred with Japanese tea rooms where hikers can Wrestling Class is where families
peaks, it is named the ‘Stone Hammer’ as a relax after their day out and learn more about will be initiated into the martial art
result of its sharp and rocky summit. It is the authentic Japanese culture. During the and learn about routine and calorie
tallest mountain in western Japan with a peak months of April and August when intake. Also, a Ramen Class is a
of 1,982 metres, not only known for its beauty the sun rises, the summit of Sanuki Fuji great way to encourage fussy
but also for the challenge it presents climbers. reflects on the surface of the water, creating a eaters to try new flavours.
Nearby peak, Mt. Kamegamori, is one of the diamond image in the water.
‘Three Peaks of Iyo’, it is a short and relatively
easy climb that still provides amazing views Tokoshima − Mt. Tsurugi
of the surrounding mountain range. Mt. Tsurugi is 1,955 metres in height making it
the second highest mountain in western
Hyogo – Mt. Maya and Mt. Rokkosan Japan after Mt. Ishizuchi. It is surrounded by
Mt. Maya and Mt. Rokkosan are both found in an 1,800-metre-high class mountain range
the Kobe area of the Hyogo Prefecture, hiking making it a gorgeous setting to hike around.
up either one of these mountains will offer This is the perfect place for those who want
visitors stunning views of Kobe and Osaka. the chance to experience stunning panoramic
Mt. Maya is one of the main peaks in the views of the Seto Inland Sea at height without
Rokko mountain range to the north of Kobe having to walk for too long. There is a chairlift
city and is often referred to as a ‘ten-million- that takes hikers from the trailhead to the Priced from £3,799 per adult and
dollar night view’. Mt. Rokko is another hiking middle of the trail. £3,639 per child aged 7-12.
gem of the Kobe area located close to the hot setouchitrip.com www.gadventures.co.uk
Explore Japan’s remote sub-tropical islands
JAPAN’S SOUTHERNMOST prefecture, Okinawa, is comprised of 160
subtropical islands boasting a year-round warm climate comparable to
Hawaii, Miami and Cancun. At just three hours by air from Tokyo and
blessed with natural beauty, from lush forests to crystal blue waters with
abundant coral and golden sands, Okinawa is perfect for beach lovers and
sport enthusiasts alike whilst still appealing to culture seekers, thanks to its
unique history and heritage.
Opened in January, Hotel Collective is a five-star luxury hotel that boasts
260 rooms, an executive lounge, banquet hall, outdoor pool and chapel.
Located in the Okinawan capital of Naha, the hotel is grounded in its
mission to fuse the island’s local culture in its design, food and events with
modern Japanese luxury.
www.visitokinawa.jpS06 TB 0702 2020 Japan_Layout 1 05/02/2020 10:27 Page 24
24 JAPAN FEBRUARY 7 2020 | travelbulletin.co.uk
Mind the doors: Japan bullet train tours
JAPAN SPECIALISTS Links Travel & Tours have added
a new rail tour to their portfolio for 2020. The 13-day
land only Discover Japan by Rail, small group tour
explores the country from Tokyo to Kanazawa, via Mt.
Fuji, Kyoto, Hiroshima, Osaka, and Takayama,
travelling on the country's world-famous bullet trains
between destinations.
The first tour starts from Tokyo on March 3 and costs
from £2,695 per person. There are also departures in
June, September, October, and November.
International flights from UK regional airports are
available on request.
www.linkstravelandtours.co.uk
020 8543 8133.
A Saga cruise to the land of the rising sun Healing hot springs in
SAGA IS offering an enthralling immersion in Goddess of Mercy, as well as beautiful gardens
Kanagawa
Japan’s history and culture. featuring cherry and plum blossoms in spring, THE CULTURE of onsen (hot spring)
Temples and shrines, geishas and kimonos, the copper and red tones of autumn, and lilies, is deeply rooted in Japan.
sake brewing and tea ceremonies, colourful hydrangeas and irises in summer. The act of relaxing in warm,
flora and breath-taking mountains are all part In the Hakone region, overlooked by iconic soothing spring water has long been
of the experience, as well as the buzz of high- Mount Fuji, Saga’s guests can take a cable car cherished across Japan as a way
tech, modern life in gleaming cities and to the summit of Mount Kamiyama, then enjoy to alleviate fatigue (and other aches
superb hotels. a leisurely cruise on Lake Ashi, while Takayama and ailments, depending on the
Tokyo’s Olympic Stadium, International retains many 16th century wooden houses and precise mineral and elemental
Forum and aquatics centre are among venues features a picturesque morning market and an balance of each spring), to deeply
hosting Games events between July 24 and exhibition of elaborate festival floats. cleanse the body, and to enjoy
August 9, and the national capital is the Time in Kyoto will include silk-weaving the seasonal beauty of the local
starting point for Saga’s 12-night tour Japan: demonstrations and a kimono show, historic natural surroundings.
Land of the Rising Sun. Shirakawago is a quiet, Unesco-protected Kanagawa is a great place to go
Highlights include tours of Tokyo and village with unique, thatched-roof houses, to discover Japan’s onsen heritage
Matsumoto, a ‘Thunderbird’ rail ride to Kyoto, and Nara’s Todaiji Temple, believed to be the – while hot springs can be found
a lake cruise, and a visit to an authentic largest wooden building in the world, is home across the whole country.
teahouse, and there are options to see the to the largest bronze Buddha ever. Kanagawa is home to two of the
capital from a different angle on the 35- Japan: Land of the Rising Sun tour, 12 most celebrated onsen
kilometre loop of the Yamanote urban railway nights (including two aboard aircraft) from areas, Hakone and Yugawara.
and to take a Bullet train to Hiroshima. £3,799 per person departs Heathrow on April Inamuragasaki Onsen is located
A visit to the religious centre of Kamakura 4, May 9, October 17 plus March 27, April 10 on the shores of Kamakura and
takes in Shinto shrines, Buddhist architecture and May 8, 2021. boasts an indoor and outdoor baths
and a nine-metre, 11-headed statue of Kannon, saga.co.uk/Japan - 0800 056 0464. overflow with hydrogen-carbonate
mineral spring water that has a
distinctive hue, hence its nickname
“the golden spring”. Hakone Yuryo is
located in the celebrated onsen
resort of Hakone-Yumoto, for an
indulgent hot spring day trip: indoor
baths, open-air rock baths looking out
over lush garden, massage services.
Enoshima Island Spa is on the
island of Enoshima, with 15 baths
and spa pools, including a waterfall
pool, gently illuminated cave pool,
whirlpool bath, carbonated bath, and
extra-hot bath, as well an incredible
open-air spring pool with views of
Mount Fuji and the Shonan Coast.
trip.pref.kanagawa.jp.You can also read
