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“Magic happens when we come together” – Fiona Dalton, MD Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection with Alex O’Connor, MD Insight Vacations on the launch of the 2017 “Europe’s Finest” collection |
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Santa Monica sunset #dtsantamonica stunning |
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Thanks for the brightly coloured surprise Topdeck Travel! We’re excited for the launch of your fresh Asia itineraries. |
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Just arrived in #sanfrancisco for the Independent Travel Group conference to this big news… |
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In a boost for tour operator Collette, the firm has announced the appointment of Michelle Cook who has taken on the new role of Business Development Manager in Western Australia. |
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Top job! Barry Brown’s @emirates Melbourne Cup runneth over. |
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Just how much value does a #celebrity endorser bring to a travel brand? This is the topic of our cover story in the November edition of Travel Bulletin available for download now http://travelbulletin.com.au/latest-editions/travelbulletin-for-november-2016/ |
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Beautiful day at Christchurch’s Otahuna Lodge thanks to @emirates and @christchurchnz |
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Just landed @christchurchnz on the first @emirates #a380 so excited |
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Darrell Wade with Office Design Manager Liam Neal, who worked with Melbourne Design Agency PTID to create Intrepid Group’s new office space.
They are standing in front of hundreds of original travel photo slides collected from the archives that depict the history of Intrepid Travel. |
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The Intrepid Group communal kitchen. |
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Some very excited Intrepid Group staff discovering their new office space on the first day. |
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A bit of lunchtime fun! Spin the Wheel or Meal of Fortune to find out where you’ll be eating today. |
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These meeting room doors/shutters from Daylesford were purchased in an online auction. |
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World Map located in the foyer of the office that will be used to identify where all 230+ staff are located each day. |
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There are four ‘neighbourhoods’ located throughout the office, each featuring mobile seating, stand-up tables, project walls, breakout areas, lockers, natural lighting and unique artwork reflective of the Intrepid Group business. |
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Signage a must! That’s how big this new office space is. |
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Just one of the many creative meeting spaces located throughout the office. |
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James Thornton & Geoff Manchester enjoying a friendly game of table tennis. |
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The Beer Garden |
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Darrell Wade, Co-Founder & CEO; James Thornton, Managing Director and Geoff Manchester, Co-Founder of Intrepid Group, standing on “Easey Street” located within the new office space. |
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Flight Centre Australia last night formally debuted its new Sydney #Hyperstore, now the company’s biggest outlet worldwide. The business is led by Dan Heathwood, who revealed the Sydney outlet has 60 consultants in 12 teams covering Retail, Flight Centre Business Travel Australia , First, Business and Groups. |
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That feeling of happiness you get from winning our major prize of a Fitbit Charge 2 just for completing a Travel Daily survey. Thanks Kate McDonald from Flight Centre Australia! |
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#Exclusive – High profile agency Bicton Travel joins Express Travel Group – ETG’s Independent Travel Group network. |
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Latest segment on Sky News Business talking Qantas’s new Brisbane lounge and flights to Beijing, Emirates Skywards program, Flight Centre Australia’s new cover protection and Condé Nast Traveler’s award for the COMO The Treasury, Perth AU hotel. https://youtu.be/tKDGdveUAMA |
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Qantas has unveiled its new look Brisbane International Airport – Departures Lounge in the Queensland capital, part of a multi-million dollar funding injection into the facility by the Australian flag-carrier. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IX2TnolaVKY&feature=youtu.be |
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Aussie #surfing legend Layne Beachley will share the secrets of her success at next month’s Travellers Choice annual shareholders’ conference. The seven-time world title winner has taken her skills to the boardroom with roles including Chair of Surfing Australia and director of her own charity. |
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Breaking the news in the morning, fighting hedge fires in the afternoon! The hedge at Travel Daily HQ went up in flames this afternoon after a tosser threw his cigarette butt in the garden. Luckily our reporters were on hand to put it out. Be careful as we move into the hotter weather. |
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We’ve all heard the joke about a horse walking into a bar, but this is a little different….Our #FridayFunny this week is brought to you by The Celebration Travel Company who got a surprise themselves when this crazy horse popped in on a hotel inspection in #Kep, #Cambodia. |
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@keithurban launching new @virginaustralia #velocityrewards live events partnership |
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These edible cuties arrived just in time for tea time! Thanks Wendy Wu Tours Australia #thenewwu |
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Sydney Opera House from a different angle thanks @destination_nsw #blackmoressydneyrunningfestival #beawellbeing |
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@gavin.tollman appearing on posters and in person at @trafalgartravel @cirquedusoleil event in Sydney tonight |
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There’s a new player in the Australian market with LayAway Travel which invites customers to “turn spare change into holiday adventures”. The business was set up initially in #NZ by Andrew Paykel from appliance giant Fisher & Paykel, who branched out into his own venture and has now brought the concept across the Tasman. |
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The cool kids were out in force last night at Carriageworks for the third installment of Contiki Legends. Snapped are a few of the execs from The Travel Corporation, Flight Centre Australia and Student Flights Australia. |
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A mammoth 100-page 2017 brochure was unveiled by French Travel Connection at the recent Atout France Travel Workshop at the iconic Sofitel Sydney Wentworth. Pictured above showing off the new brochure are Brad McDonnell, Portia Poblador, Sophie Meunier and Alex Fayan all from French Travel connection. |
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DriveAway Holidays |
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China Southern Airlines |
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Tahiti Travel Connection |
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Trying their hands at making #sushi, the sales, marketing and executive teams of Trafalgar Travel gathered in #Japan last month for the company’s annual global conference. リーガロイヤルホテル広島（Rihga Royal Hotel – Hiroshima） |
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Hannah Campbell from Global Journeys was named the winner of Switzerland Tourism and Albatross European Escorted Tours’ joint promotion scoring herself a luxurious Victorinox watch. |
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New feature in Travel Daily called #CorporateChatter highlighting the latest news in #business #travel. Got comments to add? Email us at corporatechat@traveldaily.com.au |
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The September edition of Travel Bulletin is out now with the cover story featuring the women that lead the way within several of the largest travel companies in Australia including Qantas, helloworld, Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection and Corporate Travel Management http://travelbulletin.com.au/latest-editions/travelbulletin-for-september-2016-2/ |
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Agents using Infinity Holidays can now log into live availability and book seats to any of Cirque du Soleil’s shows in Las Vegas, Nevada and a three night package at the Flamingo Las Vegas Hotel & Casino that includes admission to two performances. Visit Las Vegas |
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We had the chance to chat with Luke Nguyen whilst aboard an APT river cruise. Thanks for taking the time Luke! Red Lantern Restaurant & Private Dining Room |
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Tonight we’re hearing from Visit Britain’s newest recruit, David Nye on their plans for Australia. Big things to come! |
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AirAsia X has recruited its first two Australian cabin crew on flights departing Kuala Lumpur. Chloe Markham and Hayley Austin (pictured to the right), both from #Queensland, are the first two #Aussies to graduate from the AirAsia-CAE Aviation Centre of Excellence in Kuala Lumpur. |
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Repairing tricycles for the disabled in Bankok slum with #handsacrossthewater #tm2016bkk |
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Thai ceremony at the white party during TravelManagers 2016 National Conference #tm2016bkk |
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PANDORA has opened at Hongkong Disneyland with the grand opening celebrated earlier this week. The attraction has also launched a new ‘Disney’s Charming Afternoon Tea’, available at Walt’s Cafe until 30 November. |
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Finnair will be adding #Reykjavik, #Corfu, #Menorca and #Ibiza routes over the European summer next year. |
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I’s all smiles for the team at The Africa Safari Co. claiming Business of the Year at the recent Sutherland Shire Australia Business Awards. #winning |
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Budget airline carrier FlyScoot will commence flights from #Singapore to #Athens with their 787 Dreamliner aircraft. Service begins June 2017. |
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EXCLUSIVE: #AFTA has lodged a complaint with the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission under Australian Consumer Law, accusing online travel agency Webjet.com.au of using “misleading comparative advertising.” #TravelAgents Hey Webjet, Here’s the reasons why people choose travel agents over you |
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Aussie agents recently had the opportunity to explore Zimbabwe, Cape Town & Kapama Private Game Reserve this month on an educational with Dragonfly Africa. Check out this #selfie with Victoria Falls in the background. VictoriaFalls24.com |
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@uniworldcruises hosting its first Sydney partner appreciation night part of TTC #agentfriendlyholidaycompany |
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@sarinabratton Australia’s First Lady of Cruise presenting today at Sydney Skal Club lunch |
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The upcoming Ensemble Travel Group international conference to be held at the Grand Hyatt San Diego will feature keynote speaker Robert Herjavec of TV’s Shark Tank. |
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We stopped in at the Good Food & Wine Show to say hi to our friends at India unbound who are spreading the good word about their amazing journeys! |
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Sampling some fine beers all the way from the state of Oregon, courtesy of Travel Portland and Travel Oregon.
#hopworks Gear Up. Light in colour, sharp bitterness, hints of pear, guava and passionfruit aroma. Delish! |
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Our survey found that 53% of respondents would accept a new #job offer if approached. This would have implications for human resource management. See the August edition of Travel Bulletin and to inquire about the report email research@traveldaily.com.au #HR #HumanResources #TravelIndustry |
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Welcome #solomonislands tourism minister Bartholomew Parapolo, visiting Sydney on a wet day! |
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Which industry segment is happiest? Looks like Corporate / TMCs according to the findings from our 2016 salary & employment survey. Read the story in our August edition of Travel Bulletin and to enquire about the report email research@traveldaily.com.au #salary #employment #TravelIndustry |
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Interesting results with most respondents preferring SEEK over LinkedIn and CareerOne to use for #employment opportunities. See story in the August edition of Travel Bulletin or email research@traveldaily.com.au to inquire about the 2016 salary & employment report. |
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Amazing performance by Cirque Du Soleil thanks to Nevada Tourism @vegas @travelnevada |
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And look who turned up at the @Qantas lounge love @humannaturelive |
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New Caledonia Tourism launches virtual reality brand campaign experience. GTI Tourism’s Caroline Brunel and New Caledonia Tourism director Jean-Michel Foutrein test drive the new system below. More in TD tomorrow. New Caledonia GTI Tourism Australia |
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And the last gorgeous @birdandknoll @qantas scarf being launched this afternoon in Sydney |
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Another stunning @birdandknoll scarf courtesy of @qantas |
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Yes it’s a scarf! Created by @birdandknoll for @Qantas from a passenger’s @instagram pic. |
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@qantas is launching these stunning new @birdandknoll scarves today |
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helloworld CEO Andrew Burnes weighs in on Webjet.com.au’s latest #TV ad saying “Any inference that a quote from a travel agent is instantly out of date is manifestly untrue and we know it, Webjet knows it and the informed travelling public know it as well.” #travelagents |
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Online travel agent Webjet.com.au releases new television commercial taking another swipe at bricks and mortar travel agents . Read it here first with Travel Daily. Have your say in our comments section below. |
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Yum! Thanks Excite Holidays for these delectable red velvet cupcakes which arrived just in time for morning coffee at Travel Daily HQ! And a huge congratulations on your big win at #NTIA2016! |
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Delta Goodrem entertains guests at the Sydney Silkari launch |
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We’re hanging out at Sydney Town Hall Concert Hall tonight for the Silkari launch! |
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Johnny Ruffo doing his thing! 👏🏻🍾 |
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What a view of the Darling Harbour fireworks we have 🍾💛✨ |
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Travel professionals enjoy pre drinks by the harbour ✈️ #ntia2016 |
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Almost time ✈️ #NTIA2016 |
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And so it begins … The travel industry’s night of nights! 🍾✈️ |
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Happy 25th birthday @accorhotels_aus! Such a beautiful evening at the Ternary on Darling Harbour to celebrate. |
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Today’s view is from the top of Queenstown’s Skyline Gondola And Luge. The photo just doesn’t do it justice! #breathtaking |
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The road to #milfordsound 100% Pure New Zealand |
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Stunning morning on Lake Burley Griffin, bumped into one of the locals #visitcanberra |
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Dual waterslides, a hidden bar and barefoot bowls coming to P&O Cruises’ Pacific Explorer mega-liner from June 2017 |
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Dual waterslides, a hidden bar and barefoot bowls coming to P&O Cruises’ Pacific Explorer mega-liner from June 2017 |
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Dual waterslides, a hidden bar and barefoot bowls coming to P&O Cruises’ Pacific Explorer mega-liner from June 2017 |
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India Unbound founder Lincoln Harris is developing grassroots level programs encouraging #AFL footy participation in #India. Two players are seen here joining him in Melbourne to meet with the games’ representatives. |
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Thanks so much to Bench International – Africa Experts for bringing us a delicious afternoon tea and getting us excited about Africa! |
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Inspiring to learn the secrets of success behind ceo of the Tourism and Transport Forum Margy Osmond and Former md of Tourism Australia and and Fairfax’s md of Life Media and Events Andrew McEvoy at today’s Women and Travel and Tourism lunch at Radisson Blu Sydney ✈️👏🏻 |
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In celebration of tomorrow’s Canada Day, Trafalgar Travel sent us these tasty morsels. Let the TD feeding frenzy begin! Thanks The Travel Corporation! |
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Trafalgar Travel brought #Christmas to Sydney early with a giant snow globe staged in the CBD. Promoting the guided holiday operator’s European winter, autumn and spring itineraries; those who set foot in the winter wonderland were given the chance to win an eight-day trip to the Christmas markets of Austria, Germany and Switzerland flying with Etihad Airways. |
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Twelve retail travel agents were guided around Tropical North Queensland by Sunlover Holidays’ bdm Mick Boylan recently on a jam-packed #famil. Agents stayed at The Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort, The five-star Pullman Cairns International, M Gallery’s The Reef House Palm Cove – MGallery Collection and the five-star Thala Beach Nature Reserve Port Douglas. |
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Qantas has confirmed a trial under which it will allow Bronze and Silver frequent flyers to purchase one-off guest passes to selected domestic and international lounges. The new option will see an invitation emailed to eligible travellers three to five days before departure, with the passes able to be purchased with either cash or Qantas points. |
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Contiki Tours recently hosted a group of helloworld agents on a mega #famil exploring Europe. Staying in locations such as Chateau de Cruix in France and the Austrian Gasthof in the Swiss Alps; agents gathered from all across the US, Canada, Mexico, New Zealand, Singapore, India and Malaysia to sample Contiki’s European journeys first-hand. |
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Hoot Holidays agents said ‘sawasdee’ to #Thailand this month on an eight-day famil exploring the exotic kingdom. |
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How cool is this? The #qatarairways lounge at #londonheathrow has a lolly bar!! |
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Destination NSW invited #icehockey legend Wayne Gretzky to Sydney this week for a promotional visit and tour. He’s pictured here alongside NSW premier Mike Baird. |
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Take our 5 minute salary and employment survey and stand the chance to win Fitbits and movie tickets. Enter here: http://v9.smpsurveys.com/survey.jsp?KEY_SURVEY=98b69d1c-cf17-4fba-8dc7-098986b5870f&locale=en&UID= |
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Be part of the 2016 salary and employment survey with a chance to win one of five Fitbit Charge HRs or one of 50 Event Cinema movie tickets, simply by completing a five minute survey. Click here: http://v9.smpsurveys.com/survey.jsp?KEY_SURVEY=98b69d1c-cf17-4fba-8dc7-098986b5870f&locale=en&UID= |
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Beautiful evening in Svolvaer, famous for its Cod fishing #hurtigruten #discovertheworldaustralia #travellerau |
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They were right when they told us we would meet some Vikings while visiting #Norway with #hurtigruten. Viking Sea from #vikingoceancruises docked next to #kongharald in Bodo. #discovertheworldaustralia |
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The land of the midnight sun (well 11pm actually) #hurtigruten #discovertheworldaustralia #norway |
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Cruising along the UNESCO World Heritage listed Geirangerfjord #hurtigruten #visitnorway #discovertheworldaustralia #travellerau |
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Oslo’s stunning opera house #visitoslo #visitnorway #vikingswerehere |
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A different view of the world in Norway #visitoslo #visitnorway #vigelandsparken |
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To celebrate 20 years since Emirates first began flying to Australia, our sister publication Travel Bulletin and Emirates are giving one lucky reader the chance to win two Business Class tickets to their choice of one of 39 European destinations. To enter, simply share a photo of your best experience or memory with Emirates together with 50 words or less describing the photo and send to comp@travelbulletin.com.au PPR Australia |
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“We’re incredibly excited to announce Norwegian Jewel will be calling Australia home from November 2017” – Harry Sommer, Vice President of International Business Development for Norwegian Cruise Line.
Pictured: Harry Sommer, Nicole Constantin and Steve Odell. |
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BREAKING NEWS: Norwegian Cruise Line to home port Norwegian Jewel in Sydney from October 2017. More in today’s issue of Travel Daily |
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Switzerland Tourism kicked off its Switzerland Travel Experience Roadshow in Sydney last night. A contingent of tourism partners from Switzerland are here to provide the industry with key updates and new highlights #inlovewithswitzerland |
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“Take the cannoli”
Thanks The Travel Corporation for sweetening our morning.They were gone in a flash after we snapped this shot! |
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This will hopefully keep us going until morning tea! Wings and waffles courtesy of Houston’s famous The Breakfast Klub #tbk @visit_houston |
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Hey #tasteusa agents you’re in today’s travel daily. Download today’s issue at http://issues.traveldaily.com.au/2016/May16/td270516.pdf |
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#tasteusa #usamegafam you’re in Travel Daily today @visit_houston #texastodo #myhouston |
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We’re hearing from Travelport’s global leaders on what’s in store for the industry |
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Ground control to… Houston we have a problem. The original Apollo Mission Control centre @nasajohnson #tasteusa #usamegafam |
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Astronauts coming out of the neutral buoyancy pool @nasajohnson #tasteusa #usamegafam |
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About to take it to the next level – Level 9 in fact – at @nasajohnson space center #tasteusa thanks to @airnz and @visit_houston #iwanttobeanastronaut |
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This is going straight to the pool room – our very own #tasteusa backpack complete with an unlimited data SIM card, city pass and other goodies! #usamegafam can’t wait to @visit_houston |
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Look where @airnz has just brought us for #tasteusa #usamegafam @visit_houston |
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Macao here we come! #Travelport |
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Keynote speaker at the Select Travel Group Conference was Pauline Nguyen, entrepreneur, owner and co-founder of Red Lantern Restaurant & Red Lily Cocktail Bar. Not a dry eye was left in the room with her stirring personal account of overcoming adversity and what it takes to prosper. Express Travel Group – ETG #Learn #Engage #Succeed |
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Kate Meldrum and Damian Sever from Maui, Britz, Mighty Campervan Rentals and Sales |
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Miles Hull, Alex Hotel with Sean Blocksidge, Cape Lodge |
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Aimee Ellman-Brown, ANZCRO and Ho Min Um, Flight Centre US |
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Justin MacMillan, Starwood Hotels & Resorts with Wacca Wachholz, Lets go Surfing |
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Heidi Andrew, Gold Coast Tourism Corporation and Richard Beere, Fastrak Asian Solutions |
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Chris Hemsworth made a surprise appearance at the Tourism Australia #ate2016 welcome event! Be still our beating hearts |
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Good morning from Surfers Paradise! Travel Daily is wandering the floors of Tourism Australia’s Australian Tourism Exchange today. |
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This week the itravel team hopped on board an AAT Kings – Australia coach and the Indian Pacific Train to experience the products first hand. Nothing like first hand experience to recommend a product. |
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The Las Vegas Convention & Visitors Authority and United Airlines recently hosted 12 Flight Centre Australia frontline agents on a five-day trip to #SinCity. Nice! |
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Qantas is calling for the public to choose the Boxing Kangaroo design to feature on the Boeing 747 aircraft which will bring the Australian Olympic Team home from Rio de Janeiro. Have your say via this link http://www.qantas.com/travel/airlines/aus-olympic-plane/global/en |
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Look who’s sponsoring morning tea #hfb2016 |
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Helloworld for business summit kicking off this morning in #singapore thanks to @shangrilahotels |
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Today we had a chat with Mark Haynes from VisitBritain, who just wrapped up their first trade mission in Australia since ’06! Keep an eye on TD for lots more. |
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Melbourne agents, don’t forget to register to attend the first jito.co networking night on the 1st of June. Food + Drinks + Prizes to be won including flights to London with Etihad Airways and 5 nights accommodation with car hire courtesy of Innstant. Register via the JITO Connected app on the App Store or Google Play. |
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@kateceberano appearing at @interconadl courtesy @qatarairways welcoming the #a350 to @adelaideairport |
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The @qatarairways dancers herald the arrival of Australia’s first #a350 at the @interconadl |
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Topdeck Travel’s new app has been released this week featuring a budget tracker, downloadable maps and city guides and itinerary, weather and timezone information.It’s available via the App Store an via Googleplay. |
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Hamilton Island played host to a group of NSW-based Flight Centre Australia agents on a three night #famil last week. What better way to get acquainted with island life than enjoying a drink at the famous One Tree Hill Bar at sunset. |
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Tigerair Australia is showing the travel industry some love, with the low-cost Virgin Australia offshoot offering travel vouchers to agents who make a group booking for travel next month. For details email augroups@tigerair.com |
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Look what’s for dinner @adelaideairport courtesy of @qatarairways #a350 #adelaidetogether |
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Look what’s on the tarmac at @adelaideairport @qatarairways @airbus #a350 |
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Shirts off already at today’s Hawaii Tourism lunch in Sydney #gohawaiiau |
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Lindblad Expeditions celebrates 50 years of Expedition Travel, today announcing National Geographic Quest as new name for its latest ship and also released new Cuba by Land & Sea program. Marketing Manager Rebecca Orman pictured with National Geographic Orion Executive Chef Serge Dansereau #lindbladexpeditions |
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In celebration of #EarthMonth, The Travel Corporation invited trade representatives to an exclusive event at Indu Dining Restaurant in Sydney, for its not-for-profit group, Treadright. “We believe everyone and every business has to do more to help our planet; to protect and preserve our communities and cultures and our amazing and very fragile wildlife,” commented TTC global ceo, Brett Tollman. |
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Dreamworld Australia on the Gold Coast has been announced as the location for a LEGO Certified Store. Owner/operator of Dreamworld, Ardent Leisure inked the deal this week with LEGO Australia. Construction on the store will begin in July with an opening earmarked for November. |
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Greg McCallum is returning to the rail sector, having been named as sales manager APAC for Rocky Mountaineer. McCallum, who previously worked at Rail Plus AU, moves from his current role as franchise recruitment manager for Express Travel Group’s italktravel brand. He takes the place of Steve Farrelly who is relocating to Canada as Rocky Mountaineer’s manager, trade sales. |
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The @aptouring team enjoying the roaring 20s during the #aptdiamond cruise |
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The Rhine from Rudesheim @aptouring #APTDiamond #aptunforgettable #APTthebest |
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The charismatic Luke Nguyen gives the lucky guests an impromptu cooking demonstration after raiding the ships kitchen @aptouring #APTDiamond #aptunforgettable #APTthebest |
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South Australian winemaker Thomas Hardy treated guests to a tasting of his fine wines. Pictured here with APTs Deb Fox. APT |
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@aptouring founder Geoff McGeary and @traveldailyau editor Bruce Piper got the memo about what shirt to wear in Amsterdam #aptdiamond @aptouring |
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On board APT’s amazing AmaVenita in Amsterdam for #APTDiamond #aptunforgettable #APTthebest @aptouring |
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So excited to be heading to Europe for the #APTDiamond trip for 2016 @aptouring |
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Radisson Blu Hotel Sydney has appointed Curtis Mohr as Business Development Manager. Mohr has nine years hospitality industry experience and will lead the hotel’s meetings and events strategy as it capitalises on a new $12 million redesign. |
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Rydges Hotels & Resorts officially opened last week with a VIP luncheon. Among the guests were QLD Deputy Premier Jackie Trad, John Aloisi, manager Brisbane Roar FC and Phillip Wolanski, development partner, Denwol Group. |
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Yesterday the Australian travel industry was introduced to Norjamin Delos Reyes (left), newly appointed as the Philippine Department of Tourism’s attaché for Australia and New Zealand. Reyes is pictured at an event in Sydney yesterday with Benito C. Bengzon, Jr., Undersecretary, Department of Tourism, and the department’s director of market development, Maria Corazon Jorda-Apo. S2i Communications |
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Former Creative Holidays national sales manager Sarah Pollard has been appointed as regional sales manager at the Globus Family of Brands. After leaving Creative in December, Pollard also had a brief stint as Sydney-based regional sales manager for Dubai Tourism. Globus |
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Club Med and Air France recently hosted a group of top agents on an all-inclusive ski famil to Club Med Peisey-Vallandry in the French Alps. Everyone enjoyed a ski or snowboard lesson and a stopover on the way home in the center of Paris, courtesy of Novotel Paris Les Halles, to see a Lido de Paris – Officiel show. |
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Hats off to the Chefs! The Star Cruises Fleet Galley Team took out seven medals at the FHA (Food and Hotel Asia) 2016 International Exhibition of Food and Drinks competition in Singapore. |
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Adventure travel specialist Tucan Travel has opened a new office in Toronto, Canada, complementing the company’s existing operations in London, Sydney and Cuzco. Tucan said it would also become a member of the Association of Canadian Travel Agents. #ACTA |
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Aussie TV personality, Andrew Daddo, teamed up with Swagman Tours on an adventure traversing South Africa recently and is said to be developing a deeper partnership with the adventure company in 2017. |
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Quest Apartment Hotels in St Leonards, Sydney officially debuted last night at an exclusive cocktail party held at the venue, joined by Olympic Gold Medalist Kerri Pottharst and the Federal Member for North Sydney, Trent Zimmerman. |
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Recipients of Travellers Choice’s prestigious Silver Choice Awards enjoyed a five-night Sapphire Princess cruise from Singapore to Thailand as guests of The Cruise Team and Princess Cruises. |
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Our #FridayFunny today is this little gem. Like if you agree. |
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Were you among the lucky Victorian travel agents that got to experience the best of Singapore courtesy of Singapore Tourism and Singapore Airlines? |
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#SelfieCelebration from recent winners of an Express Travel Group – ETG and APT river cruise incentive. The group is perched high above the German village of Rüdesheim am Rhein. |
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Staying at Disney world, Florida’s Grand Floridian Resort, this group of Travel Counsellors gathered from across the globe to experience the magic first-hand. |
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Etihad Airways has been recognised by aircraft manufacturer Airbus, awarding the UAE airline for the best “Operational Reliability Performance” since #A380 services first commenced a year ago. Pictured presenting the award is Airbus head of customer service, Didier Lux (left) and EY senior vp technical, Jeff Wilkinson. |
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Being clued up on Rail Plus product has lead to Shannon Styles from Flight Centre Australia scooping an awesome European trip flying with Qatar Airways and travelling about on a Eurail pass. Well done! Rail Plus AU |
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The air conditioning may be down in our new office, but today was a breeze thanks to #TheTravelCorporation Trafalgar Travel AAT Kings – Australia Contiki Adventure World Travel Insight Vacations Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection Creative Cruising & Busabout |
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helloworld has become the Official Carlton Football Club Travel Partner, with the move giving Helloworld for Business members access to the #AFL club’s corporate program which will become formally known as “Carlton IN Business presented by helloworld for business” |
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These agents from Express Travel Group – ETG seem to agree that Qantas pyjamas are just too comfy to part with. |
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Here’s one of the winners of our recent cruise industry survey. Dallas Shaw of Easy Travel and Cruise in Gympie, Queensland has won a GoPro just for taking part in our survey – congratulations! |
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What better way for this group of agents to relax than by being treated by World Drive Holidays to a Hoyts Australia cinema experience inclusive of canapes, beverages and personal waiter service. Hoyts Australia BROADWAY |
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For the second year running, #TravelManagers celebrated wining Scenic’s top sales multi location award. Time to break out the champagne! |
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Congratulations to @thaiairways celebration 45 years of flights to Australia tonight. |
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What destination is on show in Sydney tonight? Hint: @marimekkoaustralia |
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You’d be chillin’ too if you were on this Club Med and Cathay Pacific Airways agent fam to Club Med Villars-sur-Ollon in #Switzerland. The all-inclusive experience meant consultants were indulging in Toblerone for breakfast and fondue by night while skiing and snowboarding the Swiss alps by day. |
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Grand Pacific Tours has announced the winner of its recent travel agent competition – Emily Cran from Global Journeys. Entrants went into the draw to win a comprehensive package for two to Queenstown, valued at over $3,000. #GPTbrochureoutnow |
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The biggest contingent of agents from Australia visited the Cook Islands this month as part of Cook Islands Tourism Corporation’s mega famil. Were you among the lucky ones? |
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Seven agents explored Soweto, Kruger National Park, Mashatu Game Reserve, the vineyards of Stellenbosch and Cape Town on a famil in Feb. Hosted by African Wildlife Safaris and flying with South African Airways, the group stayed at 54 on Bath, Mala Mala Main Camp, Mashatu Lodge, the renovated Tintswalo Atlantic, Victoria & Alfred Hotel and Taj Cape Town. South African Tourism AU |
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Thank you to over 500 travel agents across all retail groups who participated in last month’s 2016 Cruise Industry survey. Congratulations to Natalie Blackmore from Cruiseabout Australia Mt Gravatt and Dallas Shaw from Easy Travel and Cruise Gympie, who both won GoPro cameras. The 25 winners of Hoyts Australia movie tickets will be contacted next week, so watch your inbox. |
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THE Contiki Tours ROCK Around the World wildcard winner has been revealed as Sarah Russell from Flight Centre Australia, Canelands. She has scored a place on the ROCK Around the World incentive trip to Fuji Rock in Japan in July along with 19 other top selling travel consultants. |
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Tempo Holidays in partnership with Emirates has announced the winner of its recent Italy incentive as Jackie Ragusa from helloworld Lake Haven in NSW. |
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The Black Forest is as good a setting as any for this agent snap courtesy of the German National Tourist Office and Emirates. Gate 7 German Tourism |
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Express Travel Group – ETG agents recently flew with Singapore Airlines to Sabah for a five-day educational. The group who took part in the trip are pictured seated in a Bajau House at Mari Mari Cultural Village, Kota Kinabalu in Sabah. Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia |
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Excite Holidays celebrated their Live Like a Local USA campaign in style with events in Melbourne and Brisbane. Agents were treated to champagne and nibbles to start the night, followed by a lavish three course meal. #TravelManagers |
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SNEAK PEEK: These incredible, mesmerising lights you’re seeing is #fieldoflight , a fine art instalment by #brucemunro at the base of #Uluru. It’s open to the public from the start of April. We took this before sunrise while walking through these 50,000 solar powered lights! |
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Sounds like our idea of fun, hanging out in San Francisco. Were you among the 60 Aussie agents on Qantas Holidays Race Around Northern California? |
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A very good morning from the red centre of Australia where we are on site for the launch of #FieldofLight. |
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Dessert at #dinnerinprovence. Illusion d’Oeuf Coque, Chocolat et Abricot Atout France #goodfrance |
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Skiing, snowboarding and no doubt a taste of sake. What’s not to love about a famil of Japan courtesy of Sno’n’Ski and Japanair. helloworld #famil |
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Etihad Airways has welcomed Simon Hawk, who started as Sponsorship Manager – Australia today. Hawk was previously senior manager of Partnerships at Australian Rugby Union and in the newly created role will manage the airline’s sponsorship portfolio in Australia. |
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Just announced by AFTA, multi award winning journalist Anjali Rao to MC the prestigious National Travel Industry Awards sponsored by DUBAI Tourism. #NTIA2016 |
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A very hot lap at#ausgp @porsche |
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Kelly Surh of Champagne G.H.MUMM, Patrick Behamou of Atout France and Wivina Chaneliere of Tefal all celebrated the achievements of Hyatt France among guests at a lavish event held at the Park Hyatt Sydney. |
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With Aussie visitors up 16% in 2015, no wonder the team at Entire Travel Connection and New Caledonia Tourism are all smiles. GTI Tourism Australia New Caledonia |
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The Travel Daily Group is hiring. If you’re skilled in advertising production, sales and marketing we’d like to hear from you. See the job ad for details and to apply, email jobs@traveldaily.com.au |
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Got clients wanting a customised experience of #India? According to Lincoln Harris, founder of India Unbound, they’ve got what it takes to deliver. |
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Etihad Airways flew six crew members from Abu Dhabi to Australia over the weekend for the Taste Of Sydney Festival. The Gulf carrier’s presence marks the carriers new multi-year partnership with Taste Festivals worldwide. |
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Travellers Choice agents got to experience some of Africa’s greatest natural landscapes courtesy of The Africa Safari Co. Sites included Chobe National Park, Hwange National Park and Victoria Falls. |
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Carnival Cruise Line Australia executive chairman Ann Sherry has taken on another senior directorship, becoming a member of the “supervisory board” of Dutch banking giant ING Group. |
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Airindia have claimed a world record for the world’s longest flight operated by an all-female crew flying between Delhi and San Francisco to celebrate International Women’s Day. |
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British Airways and Raffles Hotel Singapore last week hosted Virtuoso, Specialists in the Art of Travel Advisors on a Singapore famil. Travelling BA’s Club World Business class to Singapore, the agents spent two-nights in suite accommodation at the landmark property. |
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Agents were entertained by over 1,700 amazing Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo performers in #Melbourne recently hosted by Viva Holidays and Virgin Australia. |
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Excite Holidays has named their second winner of its USA Live Like a Local incentive. Tanya Tyler from #TravelManagers will have the opportunity to visit #Nevada as part of the promotion. |
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Pullman Sydney Hyde Park again proved it was the place to be for local and international guests attending the 2016 Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras. The hotel hosted the official volunteers and was visited by Bill Shorten MP and Tanya Plibersek MP who joined the celebrations ahead of the Rainbow Labour float. |
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What better way for agents to get acquainted with #ChangMai than on a cycle tour courtesy of Buffalo Tours and the Tourism Authority of Thailand. Amazing Thailand |
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Tourism Australia has been lauded again, taking out the Destination Marketing Award for a fourth consecutive year at Routes Asia 2016 event in Manila. Australia.com |
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The Austrian National Tourist Office and the Vienna Tourist Board hosted over 100 guests, including 2014 Eurovision Song Contest winner Conchita Wurst, for the sold-out concert at the Sydney Opera House which received standing ovations. Austria Official Travel Info |
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The South America Tourism Office put on a feast for agents at Melbourne’s Vamos Cocina & Bar last month to celebrate its 15th birthday and launch of the 2016 brochure. |
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Our home for the next few days as we cover the MTA – Mobile Travel Agents conference on the Gold Coast! |
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Look who’s onstage tonight courtesy of @qatarairways – @kylieminogue in the flesh!! |
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What better way for the @qatarairways VIPs to arrive than in a massive @qatarairways branded motor cruiser |
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Sydney’s longest ever red carpet? This is where Qatar a Airways’ guests tonight walk into the launch event for themes non stop flights from Sydney to Doha @qatarairways |
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Qatar Airways to bring Airbus A380 to Sydney mid 2016. CEO Akbar Al Baker said “we’re expecting high demand in the market and will operate the A380 during the peak periods from June.” |
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Air France has engaged #Michelin-starred chef Daniel Boulud to design new menus in the carrier’s La Premiere and Business Cabins on flights from eleven North American cities. |
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This month Tempo Holidays and Taj Hotels, Resorts and Palaces are giving readers the chance to win a trip from two to India, on Tempo Holiday’s 8 day Incredible Royal Escape – with Taj Hotels. Keep an eye out each day in Travel Daily on how to enter. |
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Atout France Director Patrick Benhamou channels some #mana from these Tahitian Vahine dancers all in support of the South Pacific Management Hotels Resort & Spa ‘Dejeuner Tahiti’ event in Sydney recently. Spm Tahiti – Hotels Resorts & SpaHotels Resorts & Spa |
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Former helloworld #CEO Elizabeth Gaines is now a non-executive independent director at Nine Entertainment Co, adding to her other roles as a director of Fortescue Metals Group and IT infrastructure provider Next DC. |
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The March edition of Travel Bulletin is now on its way to subscribers. To get your copy visit the online shop at: http://travelbulletin.com.au/shop/ |
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The team at Flight Centre Broadway in Sydney are all smiles having scooped the top prize of five-nights at Club Med’s Finolhu Villas in the Maldives. Club Med |
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Attention Travel Daily readers, We’re on the lookout for an agent who will speak to us on their experiences in helping clients plan destination proposals. If you can help, we’d love to hear from you, please get in touch below and we’ll send you over a PM. Thanks! |
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Wait, what? |
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Travel Daily together with sister publication Cruise Weekly have just launched the cruise industry’s biggest ever survey on agent satisfaction, sales, support and consumer behaviour. The poll will run all of this week, with opportunities to win GoPro cameras and HOYTS movie vouchers. Enter via this link – http://v9.smpsurveys.com/survey.jsp?KEY_SURVEY=c957e3ab-b22c-4dbe-894a-ebc66fcbd1fa&locale=en&UID= |
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Emirates has been announced as the Official Airline Sponsor for US baseball team, the Los Angeles Dodgers. The new deal will see the #UAE carrier be given the chance to expand its global footprint as a supporter of sports and culture. #baseball |
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Virgin Galactic has unveiled the ‘VSS Unity’ at a gala ceremony in the Mojave, California, with Branson inviting family, stakeholders, partners and celebrities including actor Harrison Ford. |
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Winners from across Australia and New Zealand were all smiles at the 2015 CLIA Australasia cruise awards held at The Star on Saturday. |
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A world first, Qantas and TEDxSydney combine on QF73 to deliver tech talks in the sky. Dubbed ‘Ideas That Travel’ passengers on the SYD to SFO flight today can live stream talks via in-flight entertainment system. |
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ceremonial mixing of the Lo hei or yusheng noodles. |
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ceo Tom Manwaring feeding the lion! |
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Variety Travel agents Janna and Sera with Nancy Lan Huang from China Southern Airlines and Robert. |
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Mohammad Nasiry with Richard Jones and ceo Tom Manwaring. |
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Intrepid Travel sales and marketing manager Yvette Thompson and Amber Kelly from Express Travel. |
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It’s been a busy month for the team representing Canadian tourism here in Australia. Trade events, media events, road shows and more all in the name of enticing more travellers to book their Canadian holiday of choice. #Canada Destination Canada |
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German carrier airberlin has been crowned “the most reliable airline” with 99.5% of flights flown in 2015, according to website flightstats.com. |
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Delta Air Lines has made the largest payout in the history of corporate profit sharing programs with employees receiving a slice of US$1.5 billion earned in 2015. |
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That winning feeling when you’ve scooped two places aboard G Adventures Colombia Express. Three trips still to be won in agent competition. Could you be next? |
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Where is the love? It’s apparently with the team at The Travel Corporation who are still charming agents with their Great Giveaway incentive. |
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Travel agents – the champagne of the travel industry. |
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Megan Gale is all smiles having been unveiled as Tourism New Zealand’s first ever ambassador to promote the New Zealand Cycle Trail to Australians. #cycling #NewZealand #ambassador |
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The team at Hawaii Tourism Oceania are all smiles given a record 2015 year as Aussie travellers topped 333,998 visitors. Hawaii – gohawaii.com |
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Not only are Rocky Mountaineer scaling new heights with sales in Australia, but the team, including their new President also scaled the Sydney Harbour Bridge. BridgeClimb Sydney Gate 7 Pty Ltd |
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Could this become the tallest building in the world? This new tower has been approved for construction at #DubaiCreek and whilst it’s official height has not been released, it’s said to loom over all other neighbouring towers. |
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Check out the new threads that staff from Great Southern Rail are wearing. Outfits are a collabroation between local designer Juli Grbac and R.M.Williams. |
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As a one-time travel agent, Carnival Cruise Line president Christine Duffy is a big believer in the professional services and advice travel agents bring. Cheers to that! Carnival Cruise Line Australia |
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Air Serbia has unveiled the Serbian Rugby League playing kit for the team’s current tour of Australia. |
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Don’t forget to enter the BENTOURS trade competition this month. A Hurtigruten voyage is up for grabs. |
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Luxury jewellery retailer Tiffany & Co. will launch at Sydney Airport’s T1 International Terminal in the first half of 2016. Get your shopping list ready. |
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A group of Travel Managers were recently selected to enjoy five nights at the Club Med Cherating Beach resort in Malaysia, as part of an educational hosted by Club Med and Malaysian Airlines. |
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Qatar Airways is planning the world’s longest commercial flights, with non-stop long range 777 services from Doha to both Auckland and Santiago, Chile to debut this year, according to a Bloomberg Business interview with QR chief exec officer Akbar al Baker. |
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Meet the new @helloworldau CEO and executive director! |
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Canberra Airport will soon be able to put the “international” back into it’s name, having yesterday announced its first nonstop international flights flying to both #Wellington and #Singapore via carrier Singapore Airlines. |
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Former Travel the World joint managing director Justin Montgomery, who has worked in the business alongside Andrew Millmore for the last three years, has taken a new role as Head of Commercial at AmadeusITPacific. |
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Qantas has partnered with Aussie lifestyle label Country Road to launch a series of new amenity kits, which will be rolled out to Premium Economy passengers from 26 Jan. |
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Consumer advocacy group CHOICE has demanded Jetstar Australia drop pre-selected online extras that can lead to 40% mark ups on seemingly cheap fares. |
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Breaking News: Singapore Airlines will commence international non-stop flights departing Canberra Airport from September 2016. The routes include capital-to-capital services: Canberra – Singapore and Canberra-Wellington. More in today’s Travel Daily. |
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@lleytonhewitt89 fighting it out at the @australianopen thanks @emirates |
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Dean Cleaver from @emirates welcoming Michelle Payne and Henri laconte to the @australianopen |
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Emirates loves the Hobart International – Australian Open Series and it would appear agents and suppliers love EK too as a privileged few were guests of the carrier at the #tennis tournament last week. |
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Peruvian inbound tour operator and DMC Viajes Pacifico has appointed GTI Tourism Australia as its sales & marketing representative company in Australia & NZ. |
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A beautiful night in sydney, waiting for the symphony orchestra to start. Thanks to China Southern Airlines #czsydfest |
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Submissions to the first year review of the AFTA Travel Accreditation Scheme (ATAS) have now been made public, along with a comprehensive report undertaken by lawyer Chris Greiner in accordance with the #ATAS charter. |
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A 2nd daily Emirates A380 Dubai-Perth service is set to add almost 100,000 extra seats per year on the route. |
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Oh wait… #travelagentlife |
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The unsung heroes… #travel #travelagentlife |
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Thanks @accorhotels for a great afternoon at the #apiainternationalsydney tennis. |
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For all our travel agent followers out there #travel |
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Australia’s newest airline, Hong Kong Airlines, has signalled its long-term ambition for the local market, scheduling its seasonal Hong Kong-Gold Coast-Cairns triangle service to year round, effective immediately. Hong Kong Airlines 香港航空 |
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Excite Holidays has expanded further into Asia by setting up shop in Singapore. Managing director and cofounder of Excite Holidays, Nic Stavropoulos says Excite’s technology will “empower Singaporean travel agents with cutting-edge tools,” enabling them to compete on a global scale and maximise the earning potential of each booking. |
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#flaminglips #czsydfest courtesy of China Southern Airlines |
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#Summersounds in the Domain is well and truly underway! #czsydfest |
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Boeing Company has announced the hand over of thirty four 787 #Dreamliner aircraft made during Q4 of 2015, taking its total output of the carbon-composite jet to 135 for the year. It was a record year for commercial jet production for the US headquartered plane builder, with deliveries up 39 units compared to 2014. |
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AccorHotels Group has struck a deal with GuocoLand Limited to manage two new Sofitel hotels in #Singapore and #KualaLumpur, slated to open later this year. Projects include the 222-room Sofitel Singapore City Centre at Tanjong Pagar Centre – located between Chinatown and the CBD – and the 312-room Sofitel Kuala Lumpur Damansara in Damansara City, Malaysia. |
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Virgin Australia has trumped rival Qantas for average On Time Performance (OTP) last year, a new global report has concluded. According to the 2015 OAG Flightreview Punctuality League released overnight, #VA was the 10th most punctual mainline airline for arriving flights at 88.56%, with Qantas 14th & only marginally behind at 88.08%. |
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The Star Entertainment Group has confirmed it is in discussions with luxury hotel company @Ritz-Carlton to reintroduce the brand to the Sydney market as part of The Star Sydney’s planned $500 million hotel development. |
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Webjet.com.au has received a barrage of negative feedback on its social media channels from travel agents, in regards to its newly launched television commercial, which slams frontline travel bookers.
The commercial depicts a woman packing her suitcase for a holiday, with her friend asking how she booked. The woman replies that she now goes online to secure the best deal and her friend replies: “I knew there were options, but my travel agent only gave me five!” How do you feel about Webjet’s latest campaign? (More on this in today’s issue of Travel Daily) |
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A prototype has been unveiled for a new airline seat modelled on the human spine that moves as the passenger does. The ‘twister seat’ was devised many years ago, the brain child of Factorydesign, a UK based design agency with a focus on aviation and product design. #twisterseat |
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From the team here at the Travel Daily Group, we wish you a Happy New Year. All the best for 2016. #NYE #NewYears2016 |
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Hawaii Tourism Oceania says it remains on track of achieving a record breaking number of Aussies in a calendar year, with Nov data out today showing a 4.2% year-on-year increase. Figures released by Hawaii Tourism show 24,517 Australian travellers entered Hawaii in Nov. For the year-to-date, arrivals are up 9.8% to 308,175. Hawaii – gohawaii.com #Hawaii |
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FILIPINO carrier Cebu Pacific Air has been authorised to add seven new weekly flights to the United Arab Emirates. The budget carrier already operates daily flights between Manila and Dubai, with the new allocation enabling Cebu Pacific to fly to any UAE destination. |
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Talks between the Fiji Govt & officials from India next month are likely to include discussing the potential launch of flights by Fiji Airways to India. Fiji Minister for Public Enterprise Aiyaz Sayed Khaiyum said an air services agreement between the two countries was a priority. |
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Hyatt Hotels Corporation has launched an investigation after hackers may have obtained credit card numbers or other sensitive information from customers. “As soon as we discovered the activity, we launched an investigation and engaged leading third-party cyber security experts,” Hyatt global president of operations Chuck Floyd said. |
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Drinks time @oohaymanisland |
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Wyndham Vacation Resorts Asia Pacific has announced the appointment of Damien Larkin as the new resort manager of Ramada Resort, Phillip Island. |
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The Disney Destinations team has been busy the past few weeks delivering Disney Christmas goodies to more than 50 top selling agents in a mark of appreciation for their outstanding efforts selling Disney holidays over the past 12 months. |
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These Flight Centre Australia agents have just returned home from having sampled one of Intrepid Travel’s Phuket Sailing Adventures. Setting off from Phuket, the group sailed the region, taking in the turquoise water, sandy beaches and limestone peaks of Thailand and visiting islands such as Ko Phi Phi and Railay. |
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Tempo Holidays are offering 45% off all rooms at the Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa until 31 Mar, for stays between now and 31 Mar. |
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Qantas Airways has touched down at Sunshine Coast Airport, after a ten year hiatus. The first QantasLink Boeing 717 jet aircraft arrived from Sydney yesterday with a full passenger load. |
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Fancy a trip to Disneyland Paris? Air France has launched a new incentive with a trip to Disneyland Paris as the prize. Until 01 Mar, agents can earn points for selling return tickets from Australia to France/Europe. To enter, agents must send their name and agency, pax name and ticket number/PNR number to mail.webpromo.au@airfrance.fr. |
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Breakfast view! One&Only Hayman Island |
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Italian flag carrier Alitalia has a new Australian chief executive officer, with Cramer Ball announced as taking on the top job at the airline overnight. |
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These smiling agents of the Magellan Travel Group started celebrations early at the annual Travel League Christmas party last week. #Seasonsgreetings |
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Aussie agents were welcomed on board Evergreen Tours ‘Star Ship’ Emerald Sun last month on an eight-day Delights of the Danube river cruise. The troupe are pictured above at Evergreen’s prime docking position in front of the Budapest Parliament. #Famils |
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Guided holiday operator Trafalgar Travel has revealed a 50% increase in sales year-to-date for its 2016 Asia program, with the first of its departures due to kick off 16 Jan. “We’re extremely pleased to see the growth Asia has shown over the past 12 months,” commented Trafalgar managing director, Matthew Cameron-Smith. |
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Emirates has emblazoned one of its #A380 aircraft with the image of six Real Madrid C.F. football players to celebrate the airline’s sponsorship of the soccer team. The jet will traverse the globe on Emirates’ A380 routes, showing off its new look for the next six months. |
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Qantas this morning revealed a profit upgrade, saying it now expects to report an underlying profit before tax of $875m-$925m for the six months to 31 Dec. That’s more than half a billion dollars up on the result for the previous corresponding period, with ceo Alan Joyce saying it reflects strong performances from all of QF’s core businesses. |
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Sake to me @allnipponairways_official @sydneyairport |
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Look who landed @sydneyairport this morning #starwars @allnipponairways_official #stormtrooper |
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Channel 10 Studios popular weatherman Tim Bailey has signed on to become the brand ambassador of Cook Islands Tourism in Australia. He’s pictured with local GM of the Cook Islands Tourism Corporation, Kerryn Cook. #CookIslands Ten News Ten Eyewitness News Sydney |
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Walt Disney Parks and Resorts has named David Clark to head up operations in Australia & NZ. Clark joins Disney from his former role as national manager cruise wholesale with helloworld,vwith his career also including roles with Carnival Cruise Line Australial, Phil Hoffmann Travel and Disney Cruise Line. |
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Till the 11th of December we’re giving away 10 subscriptions per day to our printed magazine Travel Bulletin. Just spot the brochure cover planted within Travel Daily, email us what page it’s on together with your details and if you’re within the first 10 entries, you’ll win. tb@traveldaily.com.au |
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Richard Morgan has been appointed as the new regional director for Sabre, under a new structure giving him responsibility for the Sabre Australia and New Zealand Network as well as the firm’s joint venture in Indonesia. |
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Five wholesalers and travel reps are returning from Ecuador after a 14-day famil hosted by the country’s Ministry of Tourism. The trip covered Ecuador’s striking landscapes, wildlife & abundance of culture. |
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oneworld alliance has announced the addition of the Jetstar Asia, Jetstar Japan and Jetstar Pacific Airline networks to its Global Explorer round-the-world fare. This brings more than 15 destinations into the Global Explorer offering, which now features about 230 destinations across Asia and about 1,150 worldwide in more than 150 countries. |
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helloworld Mt Pleasant QLD was named National Retailer of the Year at the helloworld Owner Managers Summit in Wellington over the weekend! Congratulations. |
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.:: COMPETITION TIME ::. Want to win a whole year’s subscription to Travel Bulletin? It’s easy! Just find the hidden Travel Bulletin cover in today’s Travel Daily edition. |
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Air New Zealand is set to boost its brand awareness in the digital arena, with chief executive officer Christopher Luxon revealing plans to jack up the technology budget by 66% in the next year. |
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helloworld’s senior executive team were in full force in Wellington, New Zealand last weekend for the group’s owner managers Summit. The summit provided agents an opportunity to meet designate ceo Andrew Burnes face-to-face. |
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Winners are grinners with this lucky agent picking up an Intrepid Travel voucher for sharing what travel means to her and posting to #LiveIntrepid and #IntrepidAgent |
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Malaysia Airlines has partnered with Tourism Malaysia Australia and tennis pro Nick Kyrgios to present a series of videos to promote #KualaLumpur as a holiday destination. |
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Aussie cricket legend, Brett Lee, was the esteemed guest of honour at last night’s Insight Vacations Luxury Gold India launch.
Pictured: Brett Lee with Insight Vacations managing director Joost Timmer |
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United Airlines will offer illy’s signature scruro dark roast to customers on flights worldwide next summer under a new deal. |
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Performance deserves recognition with these top performing Travellers Choice members scooping awards and gaining a place aboard a Scenic river cruise in France. |
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Travellers Choice have this year achieved a third consecutive record financial performance, with overall sales growing 12% and cruise sales jumping 21%. The year ahead is looking “fairly positive” according to ceo Christian Hunter. |
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Hey @airnz what’s with the fire trucks and people in hazmat suits entering the hold of NZ2 at @aucklandairport tonight? |
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Here’s the “we’ve just raised $10,000 face” #tcconference |
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Who’s that on the big screen? #TCConference Travellers Choice |
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Retired All Blacks captain Richie McCaw has re-signed with Air New Zealand to continue as ambassador for two more years. McCaw will travel to Argentina on Air NZ’s inaugural Buenos Aires service on 01 Dec to NZ as a destination while also stopping by for a meet-and-greet session with local rugby players. Rugby World Cup |
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Billed as a “major expansion”, Air Canada will launch new nonstop services from four Canadian hubs to 12 gateways in the US, commencing next summer. New options include flights from Toronto to Washington-Dulles, Toronto-Salt Lake City and Vancouver-San Jose. |
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Christmas has come early for Andrew and Cinzia Burnes, the co-founders of The AOT Group who have agreed to a merger with helloworld. The couple will become senior executives in the combined firm – Andrew Burnes as ceo and Cinzia as executive director. They will hold 40% of the overall business, boosting their stake from the current 10.3%, with the deal funded via a $25 million cash payment plus 218.7 million newly issued shares – valuing the AOT business at close to $100 million. |
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Tourism Fiji held a pre-Christmas get together for media partners including some well known faces from Sunrise Channel 7 Studio at the trendy Since I Left You outdoor bar in Sydney last night to celebrate a stellar 2015 |
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Travel Partners gathered at Sea World Resort on the Gold Coast last week for their annual conference. The conference focussed on how to use both digital marketing and social media to attract new customers, with the key theme of “Power your Growth”. |
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This group of lucky agents have just returned home from an unforgettable week on safari with The Africa Safari Co. The troupe began their trip at Nkambeni Tented Camp near Kruger National Park, then headed to Kambaku River Sands Lodge, via the Panorama route. Moving on, they also explored Makalali Private Game reserve, Thornybush Waterside Lodge, Modito River Lodge and The Maslow Hotel in Sandton |
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SANZAR and IHG – InterContinental Hotels Group have extended their partnership for a further three years, covering the 2016-18 seasons. As part of the agreement, IHG is the Exclusive Hotel Partner throughout Australia, New Zealand, Singapore and Japan during #SuperRugby and The Rugby Championship. |
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Sunny Spain lived up to its warm reputation for these eight agents on a famil organised by Spain Tourism Board, in conjunction with Qatar Airways and RailEurope GSAs. The week-long trip gave the group a chance to explore Barcelona, Madrid and Seville, catching the high-speed AVE train between cities. |
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This group of helloworld agents were recently treated to a Business famil trip to Moscow and London, hosted by Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts and British Airways. |
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Quest Apartment Hotels has opened today Quest Chatswood on the city’s north shore. The property offers 100 studios, one- and two-bedroom serviced units and is located at 38 Albert Avenue, not far from Victoria Avenue and the major retail centres of Westfield Chatswood & Chatswood Chase, and walking distance to Chatswood Station. |
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Wildlife viewing and luxury lodges awaited this group of agents who are currently exploring Southern Africa over 10 days with Bench International – Africa Experts. So far, the group have travelled to Victoria Falls and Botswana, staying at Sanctuary Chobe Chilwero, Kwando Lagoon, Vumbura Plains Camp & Belmond Eagle Island Lodge, located on a private island. |
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American specialist luggage maker SDR Traveller has launched a “$1m Hauly Heist” bag specially for those who need to transport large quantities of cash. The bag is “ideal for the discreet, comfortable carry of up to US$1 million in used bank notes, while minimising the risk of radio frequency tracking.” |
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Who knew that big bird lived in Singapore? @italktravel @fullertonhotel |
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A friendly #hippo at Singapore’s @fullertonhotel greeting delegates at the independent travel group conference |
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We’re here for the launch of #topdeckasia |
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South African Tourism AU treated five travel agents to an adventure-filled 10-day famil in South Africa after winning the South Africa (SA) Specialist competition that ran from Oct 2014-Mar 2015. The trip took the agents from Cape Town along the Garden Route and included a luxury Big Five safari at Kwandwe Safari Lodge, city tours of Johannesburg and Cape Town. |
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Eight product managers were recently invited to take part on a seven-day famil trip of Kyushu, the southernmost of Japan’s four main islands. The group visited Oita, Kumamoto, Kagoshima and Fukuoka prefectures in Kyushu. |
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Infinity Holidays sent a group of IH agents to Cancun in Oct to experience Mexico. The agents enjoyed capers at Cancun’s club Coco Bongo, a visit to the ancient Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza and a spot of spelunking in the cenotes of the Kantenah natural Reserve on the Jungle Maya Tour |
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itravel The Junction store at The Junction near Newcastle, NSW has scooped the pool at the Local Business Awards for the Hunter Region, taking out not only Business of the Year but also Most Outstanding Tourism Business. Post your congratulations messages below! |
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The Middle-earth Trilogy New Zealand showcased their products to over 100 travel agents in Sydney last week. Agents learned about Middle-earth (Hobbiton Movie Set), Living-earth (Te Puia cultural experience) and Under-earth (Waitomo Glowworm Caves & The Legendary Black Water Rafting) experiences. |
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NSW premier Mike Baird has launched a new tourism campaign in China in partnership with Qantas, with the joint Destination NSW/QF promotion featuring a large outdoor digital billboard promoting travel to Sydney and NSW with Qantas. |
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The German National Tourist Office has wrapped up its Destination Germany Roadshow in Australia. The roadshow showcased this year’s major theme, Traditions & Customs and saw trivia nights held for over 300 travel industry professionals in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth, as well as a media event in Sydney. |
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Nine travel agents experienced the spirit of the outback on a six-day Longreach, Winton & Queensland Rail Famil with Sunlover Holidays last month. The group first headed to Longreach where they began with a scenic drive through to Winton. During the trip the agents visited Carisbrooke grazing station, the Three Sisters rock formation, Lark Quarry Conservation Park and the Camden Park Station. |
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Authorities in Seattle, USA are finally dealing with a somewhat sticky situation. They have authorised the clean-up of what has become a local attraction – a “gum wall” where thousands of people have stuck their used chewing gum over the last 20 years. The wall is estimated to have as many as one million sticky mementos. Although it’s popular with sightseers, apparently the sugar in the gum is starting to erode the bricks on the wall and so it has to be steam cleaned. However once the mess is removed people will be allowed to restart the process by putting their used chewy back up again. |
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Jet boat drivers at Queenstown’s Shotover Jet are taking a sartorial step back in time – sporting the white shirts, ties and distinctive ‘Captain’s hats’ as worn by founder Trevor Gamble in the early 1970’s. The drivers ditched their red shirts in favour of the old look as part of celebrations to mark a landmark 50 years in tourism from the beginning of this month and will wear the retro threads up to and including Shotover Jet’s official birthday on Friday November 13. |
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These Helloworld member agents explored China in style on a famil hosted by Cathay Pacific Airways and Nexus Holidays. They spent four nights in Beijing at Hotel Jen, East Beijing and saw the sights with a Nexus Holidays private tour including The Great Wall, Tiananmen Square, The Forbidden Palace and The Summer Palace. This was followed by a night at Regal Kowloon Hotel, Hong Kong with a late check out and a half day tour of Hong Kong visiting The Peak, Madam Tussauds, Aberdeen Fish Markets and Stanley Markets. |
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Express Travel Group has announced the opening of another three italktravel outlets, as it continues to track towards its target of 100 plus stores. The additions include italktravel Oakleigh and italktravel Horsham in Vic as well as italktravel Flinders Park, with all three franchises opening this month. |
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A trip to the Blyde River Canyon was just one of the many highlights enjoyed by this group of agents on a 10-day South Africa famil hosted by Bench International. The famil kicked off with a Soweto tour in Johannesburg before venturing on safari at Makutsi Safari Springs where the group was lucky enough to spot all of the Big Five. The agents then stayed at some luxury safari properties, including The Outpost and Camp Jabulani where they rode elephants against the backdrop of a stunning African sunset. |
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Savenio – Adelaide has debuted its first “concept store,” with a new outlet in the Adelaide suburb of Glenelg. |
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Look who we bumped into in the #emirates marquee The Bachelorette Australia |
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Hats off to #Emirates the #helloengland marquee at Flemington is amazing and @astonmerrygold just arrived too! |
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This pair of MTA – Mobile Travel Agents recently took part in a trip to Canada, enjoying a seven day Rocky Mountaineer ‘Western Explorer’ tour between Vancouver and Calgary. The itinerary included visits to Kamloops, Jasper, Banff, the Icefield Parkway and Lake Louise, with Michelle Johnston and Alysha White pictured in the stunning Jasper National Park. |
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Egypt Tourism and the Consul General of Egypt officially launched the new tourist season for Australians at a Gala Dinner event in Sydney on Monday night. |
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The Travel Corporation’s not-for-profit foundation, Treadright Foundation took home a 2015 World Tourism Award at World Travel Market in London. TreadRight was recognised for its mission to promote sustainable travel through conservation, leadership and education. |
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Magellan Travel Group hosted its Annual Award Winners on a luxury trip to Bali sponsored by Garuda Indonesia and Garuda Orient Holidays Australia. The trip started with a two-night stay at the newly opened Mandapa A Ritz Carlton Reserve Ubud, Bali and then moved to Seminyak for two nights at The Oberoi, where they enjoyed the dining, shopping and night life. |
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We’re #MelbourneCup ready with our goodie pack from Mecca Cosmetica – set to open at Brisbane Airport on 13 Nov |
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At Sydney Tower for Tourism Ireland’s 2016 Themes launch |
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Cathay Pacific Airways hosted key industry partners at the Melbourne Cup Carnival’s AAMI Victoria Derby Day on Sat. Pictured above enjoying the airline’s lavish hospitality are: Tom Manwaring, Express Travel Group; Paul O’Brien, AVMIN Aviation (and why wouldn’t he be smiling given he had just sold 51% of his business to Flight Centre); Paul Wagland, corporate account manager Cathay Pacific Airways; Jason Aghan, business development manager (Victoria) Cathay Pacific Airways and Nelson Chin, Regional General Manager, Cathay Pacific Airways Southwest Pacific. |
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For the second year running, Cruise Whitsundays has been named the top Major Tour and/or Transport Operator in the Whitsunday Tourism and Business Awards. Cruise Whitsundays’ ceo Nick Hortle said the company was one of the largest marine tour and transport operators in Australia. “If Cruise Whitsundays was an airport, we’d be in the top 20 busiest in Australia,” Hortle said. |
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These Magellan agents have been exploring Kenya on a famil courtesy of Bench International – Africa Experts and Etihad Airways. So far they have stayed at Satao Camp East Tsavo and Finch Hattons (Tsavo West) and will soon be travelling through Amboseli and the Masai Mara before making their way home. |
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UK leisure travel group Mercury Holidays Australia has recently established an Australian office, representing the firm’s first foray into an international market. Positioned to attract the 50-plus market and with smaller groups of between 14 to 35 passengers, Mercury Holidays has more than twenty holiday options in its newly released 2015/16 Asia & Indian Ocean brochure. Mercury Holidays #TourOperator #SriLanka #Maldives |
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VisitDubai has wrapped up a series of Regional Vic, Tas, Adelaide and Darwin workshops, with an agent in each region taking home a trip to Dubai. Nicola Hutchins (middle) is a travel consultant Escape Travel Hallett Cove and the winner for Adelaide. |
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A group of itravel team members were flown from Sydney to LA with Virgin Australia and chauffeured right to Mickey’s doorstep to celebrate Disneyland’s 60th birthday. |
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Club Med and Thai Airways International hosted a group of helloworld agents at Club Med’ Opio en Provence in the South of France. |
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Treasures of the South Pacific recently ventured to Brisbane & the Gold Coast, where the group hosted some 150 travel agents at trade evenings aimed at boosting destination knowledge. |
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Around 50 sales & marketing staff from luxury travel company Scenic are this week in Indochina meeting with senior management for the firm’s second annual sales & marketing conference. |
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This group of lucky agents recently explored the ‘Islands of Aloha’ on a Magellan Travel Group famil, hosted by Pinpoint and Hawaiian Airlines. The week-long trip included stays at Sheraton Kauai Resort, Sheraton Waikiki and Aulani Disney Resort & Spa, with a highlight being a Kauai Helicopter Flight. Pictured are: Kerry Mansell, Pinpoint Travel Group; Gay Johnston, Travel Diversity; Sallie Carroll, Brighton Travelworld; Danielle Fisher, East Burwood Travel; Cassandra Muhlhan, Where2Travel; Natalie Hadikin, Travel Specialists; Fiona Potter, Travelsuperstore; Adriana SultanPollock, Northern Beaches Travel; Chloe Austen, Balwyn Travel with Jo Vella from HA in front. |
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The Globus family of brands has released its first brochure of Monograms holidays, which give travellers the independence of travelling alone, with the same level of support as offered on a guided holiday. The new Monograms Europe 2016 brochure features more than 50 different holiday options including city getaways London, Paris and Rome, as well as multi-city combinations and multi-country options. #independenttravel Globus |
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Excite Holidays has announced the appointment of Andrew Yell as its new general manager of global sales. In his new position with Excite Holidays, Yell will manage the online wholesaler’s global sales team and international contracting, as well as leading Excite’s strategic expansion into new markets. |
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Last weekend a group of wholesalers joined the Vanuatu Tourism Office (VTO) team and Air Vanuatu manager commercial, Australia Paul Forbes at the Sydney premiere of Tanna. The film was shot in Vanuatu in close collaboration with the people from the Kastom village of Yakel on the island of Tanna. The audience was treated to a lively dance performance before the screening and a Q&A session with the Vanuatu cast and Australian film makers. Tanna will open in cinemas in Syd, Mel and Bri from 05 Nov. Paul Forbes and VTO’s Anne Morris are pictured with the film’s main character ‘Dain’. |
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Plans have been submitted to the NSW Govt for a mixed-use development on the corner of Clevelandand Eveleigh Streets in Redfern, Sydney. Sharing space with a residential complex at its rear, the hotel element of the project consists of a 78- room boutique property, which according artist imagery, will be called Hotel Co Co. The split five/six-storey property will be located within two-mins walk of Redfern Station & features “a robust architectural solution suitable in particular to the more hostile environment of Cleveland Street”, Sutherland & Associates Planning paperwork says. Developers say the proposed hotel component fulfills principles of the ‘Sustainable Sydney 2030’ program by providing “affordable accommodation for international guests and encourages overseas visitors to Sydney.” Prominent Aboriginal artist Jim Simon has been commissioned to design a “single, unifying facade” that will be incorporated into the base of the hotel structure “to recognise and celebrate the Aboriginal significance of Redfern.” An Environmental Impact Statement is currently on exhibition for public submission. |
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Driving one of APT’s custom built 13-tonne #Mercedes 4WD coaches, Kimberley and Outback Wilderness Adventures tour operations manager Jane has driven across four states to bring a taste of the region to the travel industry and prospective guests in South Australia and Victoria. Jane stopped off at APT’s consumer travel expos, the APT head office in Melbourne and also at travel agencies along the way to demonstrate the vehicle which carries no more than 20 passengers on tours. Pictured at APT’s head office in Melbourne are members from APT’s Retail Reservations Team and KOWA colleagues: Erin Nicholas, Kayla Dehaan, Jane Ballantyne, Michelle Lester Smith, Nick Davies, Carley Browncombe, Ashley Cooper and Tuesday Carruthers; with Angela Lee and Rob Tandy kneeling in front. |
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Michelin Star dining around the clock, a local cooking class and a Localers tour of Le Marais are just some of the activities a group of agents are experiencing on The Leading Hotels of the World, Ltd. famil currently underway. During a multi-night visit to Paris, participants stayed at Hotel Lancaster, La Reserve & Le Bristol, Hôtel Negresco Nice, Hotel Barriere Le Majestic in Cannes and will finish off at Terre Blanche Resort & Spa in Provence. During their four nights in the French capital, the group travelled to the Eiffel Tower in style, in vintage Citroens with Paris Authentic. They were even treated to a behind the scenes hard hat tour of the Ritz Paris, which is due to re-open in Mar 2016. Pictured on their hard hat tour are Evelyn Mehrengs, Bayview Travel; Renee Fowler, The Leading Hotels of the World; Christian Boyens, Ritz Paris; Denise Gilfeather, Spencer Travel; Angela Doyle, Wentworth Travel; Jake Agnew, Sanford International Travel; Belinda Manning, MTA and Maggie Fay, Executive Edge. |
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Quest Apartment Hotels hosted its annual Gala Awards Dinner on Sat, dishing out a range of awards to its state ‘Franchise of the Year’ among others. The highest accolade, the ‘2015 Australian Franchise of the Year’, (as well as Regional Franchise of the Year for Victoria & Tasmania) went to QUEST SALE. Quest Sale franchisees Greg, Willie and Tom Moulton are pictured receiving their award from Quest Apartment Hotels ceo Zed Sanjana (second from left). |
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Congrats to the winners at the AccorHotels Pacific Franchise Awards for 2015! The major award for Franchise Hotel of the Year has been awarded to The Playford Adelaide – a member of the MGallery Collection. General Manager of Novotel Ningaloo Resort Exmouth, Darren Cossill and General Manager of Mercure Centro Hotel Port Macquarie Chris Abel were the joint winners of the General Manager of the Year Award. Novotel Ningaloo took home a hat trick winning the Loyalty Award in recognition of its highly successful engagement with AccorHotels loyalty programs AccorPlus and Le Club AccorHotels, as well as the brand award for Novotel of the Year, in addition to Darren’s General Manager accolade. Picking up a second award, Mercure Centro Port Macquarie was named Mercure of the Year, while the ibis Styles of the Year was awarded to Ibis Styles Cairns. The Franchise Customer Service Award was won by Novotel Swan Valley Vines Resort, located in the well-known winery region near Perth. Lucy Parkinson, Front Office Manager from the host venue for the Franchise Awards and Conference, Voyages Ayers Rock Resort, was crowned the Peopleologist of the Year for her dedication to enhancing every guest’s hotel experience. Pictured: Channel 7’s Andrew O’Keefe, The Playford Adelaide, MGallery Collection General Manager Daniel Sparr and AccorHotels Asia Pacific Chairman and CEO Michael Issenberg. |
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Discover New England, the regional tourism organisation that represents six states in the north east of the United States, made its first pilgrimage down under last week as the region looks to step up its local awareness and strengthen trade relationships. Eight delegates representing Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Vermont talked up the regions’ offering to trade partners at events in Melbourne & Sydney. Leading the group was Discover New England executive director Lori Harnois who told Travel Daily the inaugural mission – which also included a stop in Auckland – had been highly successful. Harnois said Australian trade partners including wholesalers & tour operators had shown much enthusiasm in wanting to know more about New England and what it has to offer. Pictured in Sydney from left are Sue Presby, The Cog Railway; Carolann Ouelette, Maine Office of Tourism; Victoria Cimino, New Hampshire Tourism; Caroline Donaldson-Sinclair, Vermont Tourism; Lori Harnois, Discover New England Tourism; Jayne O’Connor, White Mountain Attractions; Wendy Northcross, Massachusetts Office of Tourism; Sue Norrington-Davies, Tourmappers North America and Corey Marshall from Canuckiwi. |
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helloworld & Thai Airways hosted a top-producer fam trip for ten agents to Bangkok, Thailand earlier this month, sponsored by Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. Highlights of the three-night famil include a half day discovery ‘Race Around Bangkok’ and a cooking class. Pictured enjoying lunch at the Blue Elephant Cooking School & Restaurant Bangkok are: Lauren Pryde, Travelling Places; Preet Shah, Travel Traders; Sutthida (Sonia) Sintupanuts, Swan Travel; Elizabeth Katsidis, Goldman Travel; Linda McKenzie, helloworld Hervey Bay; Cathy Riches, Travel Associates Australia; Jessica Newman, Motive Travel; Susie Morelli, TG; Natalie Hudson, helloworld and Selina Lawrence-Shaw, BCD. |
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Holland America Line yesterday celebrated the first time arrival of its Noordam into Australia, with the 1,972 passenger vessel cruising through the Sydney heads after a 25-day journey from Alaska. The momentous occasion was attended by the cruise line’s vice president of International Marketing & Sales, Mark Kammerer, who said the voyage down under had included a number of “firsts” including Noordam’s inaugural crossing of the International Date Line. Noordam launched in 2006 and is HAL’s newest Vista-class vessel, with a preview yesterday showcasing features such as the BB King’s Blues Club, the upgraded Vista lounge and the extensive gym and spa facilities. Travel agents toured the ship after enjoying a delicious barbecue feast on the top deck Cabana area of the vessel. Pictured during the event are Tony Archbold, director of Sales Australia for Holland America Line & Seabourn; HAL deputy director of internatinal public relations, Jerrol Golden and Mark Kammerer. |
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Erm…is Facebook trying to say we should drink more often on a Friday morning? |
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This group of Flight Centre Australia agents recently explored #Russia on an educational hosted by On the Go Tours. Their journey began with a stop in St Petersburg where they spent time admiring the impressive art collection at the Hermitage Museum, exploring Nevksy Prospekt and discovering the churches and cathedrals. Venturing south to Novgorod, one of Russia’s oldest cities, they toured the riverside fortified Kremlin, before jumping aboard an overnight sleeper train for the journey to Moscow. In the Russian capital, the Flighties took in Red Square and St Basil’s Cathedral, the palatial Moscow Metro, Moscow’s museums and saw a ballet performance of ‘Giselle’. Pictured in Red Square, back row from left are Malcolm Froneman, FC Bondi Westfield; James Mclanders, FC Nepean; Amy Lowe, FC Applecross; Kelly Marshall, FC Aurora Gateway; Evan Miller, FC Sandy Bay; Marina Wood, FC London and Alicia Robbins, FC Elizabeth. In front are Haley Nalor, FC Carindale; Lena Nielson, On The Go Tours business development executive; Imogen Bailey, FC London and Nicole Semple, FC Kilbirnie. |
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These lucky agents were treated to Adventure World Travel’s Grand American Adventures agent #famil earlier this month. Beginning with an exploration of the cultural melting pot of San Francisco, the group headed east across the Golden Gate Bridge through California’s historic gold country and into Yosemite National Park. They then travelled to Death Valley – one of the hottest & driest places on earth – and then to Las Vegas to experience Sin City. After a night in Las Vegas, the group ventured to the Grand Canyon before beginning their journey back up the West Coast taking in the sights of infamous Route 66, the mighty Colorado River and Lake Havasu. The experience culminated with a drive through the Mojave Desert en route to Los Angeles. Pictured in the top row from left are Liz Cullen Europe, Travel Centre; Mike Milner, Flight Centre Australia Arndale; Chelsea Wall, Flight Centre Forestway and Amy Middleton, Flight Centre Galleria. Middle row: Andy Kirkman, AW; Nicky Chapman, Escape Travell Kawana and Patricia de los Reyes, Flight Centre Rouse Hill with Terry Donovan, FC Bull Creek in front. |
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Indiatourism Sydney and the Consulate General of India officially launched India Tourism Week at a curtain raiser event in Sydney last night. This year, India Tourism Week coincides with the sixth annual Parramasala event – an international contemporary arts festival that celebrates the global impact of Asian arts and cultures. Commencing today and running through to Sun, the free public event will be held in Parramatta, and is expected to attract over 30,000 visitors. |
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Meet “Cairpi”, #Cairns new #mascot. This cute cartoon sea turtle wearing what may be budgie-smugglers, is set to entice Japanese travellers to visit Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef region. The creature was created by Tokyo design student Ryoko Matsuba, as part of a competition which took place across nine colleges in Japan earlier this year. Cairpi will make its first outing next week at the 03 Nov launch of the $500,000 Carins & Great Barrier Reef Pop-up Shop campaign in #Tokyo and #Osaka, in partnership with H.I.S. Travel. @tropicalnorthqueensland ceo Alex de Waal said the Japanese market was rebounding, with 3.1% growth for the year to 30 Jun, to 88,000 arrivals. |
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We know Andrew Burnes is a powerful figure – but probably not as powerful as was implied in a story in The Australian today. The report on the potential float of Burnes’ The AOT Group claims he was “appointed federal treasurer in June” – which would have probably come as a shock to former treasurer Joe Hockey as well as Tony Abbott and Scott Morrison MP. For the record, Burnes was actually appointed as the treasurer of the Liberal Party. |
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Great work guys! More than 200 AccorHotels have raised a whopping $460,000 for Mission Australia and $40,000 for Kokoda Youth Foundation. The hotel company’s employees have fundraised throughout the year, with the group’s efforts capped off with more than 200 staff competing in a gruelling three-day #RacetoSurvive adventure challenge. Participants endured rain, 25 km treks through rugged bushland, canoeing, obstacle courses, stretcher challenges and tug-of-war competitions. The $460,000 raised for Mission Australia will support their services including Missionbeat (NSW) – van patrols connecting people and combating homelessness, a pilot of a homelessness program in Queensland- and Charcoal Lane. The $40,000 will help the Kokoda Youth Foundation support young people by breaking cycles of welfare dependency, addressing mental health issues and advocating suicide prevention. |
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Construction has commenced on Quest Macquarie Park, NSW’s third largest commercial office region. Due to open in Dec 2016, Quest Macquarie Park will feature 111 apartments over six levels, on-site parking, a conference room, BBQ area and gym. Quest ceo, Zed Sanjana was on-site with representatives from developers Goodman and Vikings, who will be the owner on completion. Sanjana said it makes “perfect strategic sense for Quest to position itself in such a booming corporate centre of Sydney,” with the City of Ryde anticipating an additional 40,000 jobs to be created during the next 15 years in the business centre. Pictured are: Chris Wright, AAP Corporation; Matt Doogan, Vikings Group; Zed Sanjana, Quest Apartment Hotels; David Wilson, Goodman and Anthony Hill, Vikings Group. |
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This lucky group of Aussie travel agents recently explored South Africa, Zambia and Zimbabwe on a Scenic Tours famil. The famil kicked off with three nights in Cape Town, where they journeyed to the top of Table Mountain in a gondola followed by a full day tour of Cape Point, South Africa and a visit to Boulders Beach. Next they headed to Kruger National Park where they spent the night at Lion Sands Game Reserve and ventured on two game drives to spot the ‘Big 5’ & a hippo walk to the Sabie River. Then the group headed to Thornybush Game Reserve for more wildlife spotting, followed by a traditional African style outdoor dinner. Following the Panorama Route, they headed to Livingstone for a three night stay at Victoria Falls. Next they visited a local village which is a popular Scenic Enrich experience, experienced an elephant interaction and a sundowner cruise on the Zambezi River. Pictured at Champs Bay, Cape Town in the back row are: Fran Giorgianni; Andrea Alloway; Vicki Shepherd; Valerie Ireland; Angela Ficarra; Alison Uphill and Rachel Harrigan. In the middle row is Gina Passfield; Ebony Griffen; Maria Dunning; Judy Watters; Tanya Glass and Kim Lougheed and in the bottom row Judy Moffitt and Emma Thompson. |
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The newly branded Peppers Waymouth Hotel in #Adelaide celebrated a grand opening this week, having rebranded from its former Rendezvous identity when Mantra took over last month. The property offers 202 five star hotel rooms and suites, a heated indoor lap pool, two food & beverage outlets and a 120 square metre conference room. Ongoing upgrades to rooms and public areas will continue over the next year, with the hotel being the second CBD and capital city Peppers property after last year’s addition of Peppers Gallery Hotel Canberra. Pictured back row from left are Mantra’s Tim Rees-Jones, Lori Finglas, Tomas Johnsson, David Chaplin and Yvette Peverell with hotel gm Victor Faisca. Front row: hotel owner Mark Mattioli and owner’s representative Arpad Fekete; Jodie Kurtis, Mantra Group SA regional sales & marketing manager Jodie Kurtis and owner Dominic Mattioli. |
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The AOT NZ Mega Famil 2015 is underway, including 35 agents from across Australia who are travelling around New Zealand on a 12-day journey which kicked off on 12 Oct. The famil started in Christchurch, New Zealand and covers the length and breadth of New Zealand’s South and North islands. The mega famil takes place every two years, with this year’s itinerary focusing on promoting some of New Zealand’s diverse regional destinations such as Christchurch, Wanaka, Wellington, Marlborough, and Hobbiton alongside the Auckland and Rotorua tourism hubs. The event includes the ATS Pacific and AOT NZ respective top wholesale partners in key offshore markets and targets consultants, sales staff & Product coordinators from AOT’s major wholesale partners globally. |
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Around 100 of Sydney’s travel trade braved menacing skies over the CBD last night to participate in the State of Alaska roadshow for 2015 which was hosted at the ivy Sunroom. A delegation of suppliers and representatives were on hand – some of whom are pictured – to share their knowledge of America’s 49th state, renowned for fishing, cruising, land and rail touring and the Denali National Park and Preserve. Brands on show included Collette, Adventure World (Español) and APT, while the overseas delegation included Explore Fairbanks Alaska, Visit Anchorage, State of Alaska, Alaska Holidays, Premier Alaska Tours, Northern Alaska Tour Company, Alaska Railroad and CIRI Alaska Tourism. |
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Who’s a fan of of the new Tigerair threads? |
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Premium cabins on Hawaiian Airlines A330 aircraft are set for an overhaul, with the Aloha spirit carrier overnight unveiling new 180⁰ lie-flat seats. Designed in partnership with Italian manufacturer Optimares & consulting passenger feedback, the new seats reflect “a truly bespoke design that delivers world-class comfort and style, while staying true to our island roots,” HA president and ceoMark Dunkerley commented. In addition to the lie-flat seats, pointy-end passengers will enjoy next-generation large-format tablets for inflight entertainment, enhanced with a telescoping tablet arm to optimise viewing. |
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Lauren from GRAFTON TRAVEL AGENCY was the Aug winner of Sunlover Holidays’ Signature Collection incentive, celebrating the release of their latest brochure. Lauren won a Signature Collection four-night Country Estates stay at Villa Howden, Tas. She is pictured with Sunlover Holidays bdm Danielle Cramp. Chelsea from Emma Whiting Travel, VIC won in June, with the prize of a Signature Island Escape – 5 nights at One&Only Hayman Island, QLD. In July, Jacqui from Flying Colours Travel, VIC won Coastal Havens – 3 nights at The Byron at Byron Resort and Spa, NSW Gayle from helloworld Gatton, QLD was the September winner, with the prize of a Cosmopolitan Style – 3 nights at The Lyall Hotel and Spa, VIC |
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Flexibility is a core element of the new Swagman Tours range of independent touring options in India, managing director Wayne Hamilton stressed, with full control in travellers’ hands. Passengers are encouraged to look through the destinations visited on any given itinerary and if they find one they like and wish to explore further, the ability to add an extra night or two is there. Revealing the full brochured range exclusively to Travel Daily, Hamilton said he believed the guide contained many of the most popular options but with a Swagman twist. “It’s not like a European coach tour where you have set departures and you have to go on this date. These are daily, you take out or add in what you like or you stick to the itinerary.” |
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Buenos Aires, Argentina, Patagonia and the stunning Torres del Paine were some of the highlights of a 15-day Argentina and Chile famil hosted by Eclipse Travel earlier this month. Agents ventured into the Chilean Patagonian rainforest in the Andes mountain range, visited Huilo Huilo Ecological Reserve and Petrohue Waterfalls. Pictured at Petrohue Waterfalls are Devin Hunt from The Adventure Traveller; Leanne Flanagan-Smith, Backtrack; Liz Bridges, Travel Counsellors; Matt McMillan, Eclipse Travel; Justin Lawson, Malvern Travel & Cruise and Lynton Jones, The Savvy Traveller. |
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Crown Resorts has detailed plans for a fourth hotel tower as part of the Crown Melbourne complex, having appointed British Wilkinson Eyre Architects to design the planned structure. The casino operator and joint venture partner Schiavello Group yesterday revealed the mooted 90-storey Queensbridge Hotel Tower would consist of a 388-room luxury six-star hotel & approx 680 apartments. |
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Canadian carrier WestJet has teamed up with Disney to create a new Frozen-themed aircraft. The magic travels from the plane’s tail where Anna and Elsa from the wildly popular animated movie celebrate “sisterhood and the magic of snow” to the main fuselage where Olaf dreams of going someplace warm. The 737 is inspired by Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida, but will operate across the WestJet network. Inside, the cabin also features Frozen elements, while the aircraft’s in-flight entertainment naturally includes a selection of on-demand Disney videos. The painting took 21 days, with a time-lapse recording of the process online at traveldaily.com.au/videos. |
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Plans to convert Perth’s Subiaco Oval into a urban surfing wave park have surfaced, expected to be a drawcard for interstate visitors. The ‘Subi Surf Park’ proposal would see the stadium pulled down (after the new Perth Stadium launches) & transformed into a 300m long, 120m wide artificial “wavegarden”. Stencilled on other projects already developed by the Wave Park Group in #Europe & another under construction in Austin (Texas), the $120 million project would also include 220 apartments, an elevated public parkland, terraced homes, a wellness centre & other facilities. If approved, Wavegarden could be activated by 2020. |
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A Group of nine agents have recently returned from a famil to Burma following a thorough immersion in the country courtesy of Insider Journeys. The 12-day itinerary included overnight stays on the boutique Belmond Orcaella and Belmond Road to Mandalay as the agents cruised from Bagan to Mandalay, prior to an overland journey to Inle Lake and Yangon. Participants were escorted by Insider Journeys’ own Debbie Evans and Liz Giannone. Pictured on a balmy Burma evening aboard the Belmont Road to Mandalay vessel from left are Esther Lee, Escape Travel Lindfield; Karen Conlon, Belmond; Jane Konatar, Helloworld Elizabeth; Thet, Belmond guide; Liza Noakes, Hyslop & James Travel Associates; Monique Dewhurst, Gannon & Turner Travel Associates; Natasha Leventeris, Cruiseabout Australia West Lakes; Paul Egan, Egan and Turner Travel Associates; Debbie Evans, Insider Journeys; Pauline Haldane, Passport to the Worldld; Liz Giannone, Insider Journeys & Briony Harris, Cruiseabout Hobart |
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These Australian buyers experienced Kenya last week in the lead-up to the fifth annual MagicalKenya Travel Expo. The pre-famil saw them explore Kenya’s open plains and game reserves, giving them a first hand insight into the country’s diverse product offering. #MKTE took place at the Leisure Lodge Resort in Diani Beach on Kenya’s south coast, with about 150 local and international travel agents & tour operators present. Pictured enjoying sundowners with the local Maasai are, from left: Ben Goschnick, This Is Africa; Praful Albuquerque, African Wildlife Safaris; Allan Njorogr, Kenya Tourism Board; Himanshi Munshaw-Luhar, Beacon Holidays – Australia; Bart Druitt, GTI Tourism Australia and Ryan Kendall from Adventure World Travel. |
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Low-cost carrier AirAsiaIndonesia (IAAX) commenced new five-weekly Sydney-Denpasar (Bali) services over the weekend. Indonesia AirAsia X ceo Dendy Kurniawan was onboard the launch service, operated by a 377- seat Airbus A330-300 jet with 12 Business class seats up front. “Our inaugural flight from Sydney to Bali this morning recorded an impressive load factor of over 80%. We are confident that demand on this new route will continue to be robust,” Kurniawan said on Sat. IAAX is the fourth airline servicing the Sydney-Bali route. |
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Qantas empire airways one of the major sponsors of the global achievers gala event in #ntaustralia this weekend |
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Darwin putting on a spectacular fireworks welcome to the Qantas holidays achievers in #ntaustralia introduced by @hugh_sheridan |
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@hugh_sheridan welcoming the crowd at the global achievers gala dinner in Darwin #ntaustralia |
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Look who we bumped into on our way to Darwin for the @qantas hoilidays global achievers gala dinner @nealewhitaker @ausoutbacknt #ntaustralia thanks @helloworldau #sneakyshot |
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Here’s one for the stageshow-lovers: Disney’s famous musical Aladdin is bound for Sydney, secured by Destination NSW to open at the Capitol Theatre in Aug next year. It marks the third time a Disney Theatrical Production has made an Australian debut in Sydney. NSW Minister for Trade, Tourism and Major Events Stuart Ayres said the announcement shows that Sydney is Australia’s home of live performance and first run musicals. The Minister (right) is pictured with Thomas Schumacher, president & producer from Disney Theatrical Productions. |
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The Sydney Symphony Orchestra and Emirates celebrated 13 years of partnership last week at the Sydney Opera House. The SSO held a special event prior to its Sibelius 2 concert which saw the soloists on stage handed flowers by two Emirates cabin crew. Pictured are: Emirates cabin crew presenting Concertmaster Andrew Haveron flowers at the concert. |
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RailEurope’s regional manager Australia Ingrid Kocijan invited a group of industry partners to get together in Sydney last night to learn more about where the organisation is headed in 2016. It’s safe to say big things are set to hit the tracks next year, with announcements to follow soon. Some previously retired passes will make a comeback in response to healthy passenger demand. Kocijan is pictured with Rail Europe’s two visiting int’l delegates Clarrisa Mattos, market manager Pacific, North & South America (left) and Silvia Görlach, sales and marketing manager. |
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Today’s TravelTech conference in Sydney has seen a range of high profile speakers discussing the perennial theme of disruption. Presenters from Airbnb, Uber, Groupon, Expedia and even Spotify and DIMMI have provided a fascinating array of insights into the fast-evolving technology world, with mobile adoption a key theme which continues to impact the distribution of travel. Sponsors of the event include Newbook, Calypso, AmadeusITPacific, Hirum, Viator.com, Helloworld, Travelzoo and Skyscanner, while the Traveltech industry partners are the @Accommodation Association of Australia and jito.co. Pictured above with conference host Martin Kelly (centre) are James Gaskell who is now managing director of Travel Corporation FIT, & Jeremy Reitman, ceo of helloworld.com.au. |
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One of Australia’s greatest Rugby World Cup victories over England was witnessed in person by this group of agents during a Korean Air famil to London. Five-star luxury was provided throughout the trip, with Business class flights on Korean Air ensuring the group had their feet up from takeoff to landing. Other highlights in the British capital included a rock and roll tour of London courtesy of Crooked Compass and a tour of the City of London Distillery. The group is pictured outside Twickenham with their hosts Steven Heinrich from Consolidated Travel and Cameron Brown of Korean Air. |
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Cathay Pacific Airways hosted some of its industry partners at Sydney’s Night Noodle Markets last night as part of its association as official airline sponsor of Good Food Month. CX has a stunning pavilion at the event in the CBD, with VIPs welcomed beyond the velvet rope to enjoy exclusive cocktails and an array of fabulous Asian cuisine. Pictured at the event are Cathay Pacific general managerSouth West Pacific Nelson Chin with the carrier’s recently appointed sales and marketing manager Australia, Richard Jones. |
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Mantra Group recently awarded four lucky FCm Travel Solutions – Australia agents with a trip to Bali, after they won a team getaway including flights and accommodation at Mantra Sakala Resort and Beach Club in Nusa Dua. Mantra Group director of corporate sales, Kyle Wallwork is pictured with the winning team of Tania Mansell, Jane Stower and Lindsay Johnson, while the fourth winner Penny Hele was away. |
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Chimu Adventures was recognised for its charity fundraising support last Fri, at a function at #KirribilliHouse to celebrate the ten year anniversary of the McGrath Foundation.Chimu Adventures director Greg Carter and Meg Hall are pictured with Glenn McGrath and the foundation’s co-founder Tracy Bevan. |
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Commuters and visitors to Melbourne yesterday had the opportunity to enjoy a free ride around the city CBD in a classic British cab, courtesy of Emirates. Available for one day only, the fleet of four cabs hit the streets as part of the airline’s promotion of its English-themed marquee which will be in operation at the Emirates Melbourne Cup Carnival. Pictured with one of the cabs are Emirates cabin crew with sales and ticket office staff, from left: Sandra Folie, Jason Sidhu, Tracey Bethune, Dean Cleaver, Carl Matto, Raphael Mannays, Krishnan Nair, Julie Abbott and Lavonne Vengrasamy. |
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Corporate payment solutions provider WEX Australia recently escorted a group of its Australian customers to the annual three-day Lead User Group conference in the US city of Portland, Maine. A number of round-table discussion panels were conducted to chat about industry trends and future forecasts, best practice insights and supplier education. The delegation is pictured above and includes Peter de Maria, WEX Australia; Joseph Flaherty, WEX Inc; James O’Donnell, The Travel Corporation; Chris Dignan, Webjet.com.au; Tony Carolan, Flight Centre Global Product; Stanny D’Mello, Etihad Airways Canada; Angela Torner, WEX Australia; Mick Mag, Helloworld; Jonathan Brown, Flight Centre Travel Group; Daniel Vukovac, WEX Australia and Jim Pratt from WEX Inc. |
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Hanging at the Night Noodle Markets with Cathay Pacific. Cathay Pacific Airways #lifewelltravelled |
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Qatar Airways to launch #Adelaide flights http://new.traveldaily.com.au/news/td-breaking-news-qatar-airways-to-launch-adelaide-flights/238943 |
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Quest Kelvin Grove in Brisbane was officially opened last week by Qld Minister for State Development and Minister for Natural Resources & Mines Anthony Lynham, alongside Quest Apartment Hotels gm of brand Tony Gauci & ex State of Origin & Brisbane Broncos player Ben Ikin. Pictured from left are Quest’s Tony Gauci; Gary Lin, Quest Kelvin Grove franchisee, Minister Lynham and Ben Ikin. |
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A group of Aussie agents had the opportunity recently toexplore the vast outdoors, wildlife and greenery of Canada during an educational tour to the country, supported by Air Canada. Highlights of the trip included seeing icebergs and whales in Newfoundland, visiting Quirpon Island and Prince Edward Island. The group also took a themed walking tour and learned some culinary tactics at a cooking class. |
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Draped in a swathe of bright colours, this group of Aussie agents lapped up the colourful excitement of a famil trip to India. Hosted by Adventure World, the wholesaler’s ‘Extraordinary India’ famil took place late last month. Pictured above on the steps of the Amber Fort from left is Louise Askerlund, Maria Slater Travel; Anna Mulkearns, Time Flys Travelavel; Rebecca McIntyre, helloworld Scone; Davina Bicker, Adventure World Travel; Pip Turner, @Experience Cruise and Travel Toowoomba; Jeff Griffin, Adventure World; Montana McCosker, Windsong Travel; Denise Bradley, Moss Vale Cruise & Travel; Peggy Chan, JVL Travel; Karin Vanner, helloworld Geelong West; Shelley Wyatt, Warragul Travel and Air India resident guru Matt Symonds |
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The MTA – Mobile Travel Agents team joined their Hawaiian Airlines and Trump International Hotel Waikiki Beach Walk partners by Sydney Harbour last week for an update, where they were brought up to speed with the latest happenings on the Trump International luxury hotel scene in the Aloha state. Pictured from left are: Meredith Salotto, Hawaiian Airlines BDM NSW/ACT; Pat Lloyd, MTA consultant; Lydia Cornett, account director Trump International Hotel Waikiki Beach Walk; Janet Clacher, MTA consultant & Jackie Pennock, MTA BDM NSW/ACT. |
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Last Friday night Emirates hosted a group of travel partners at the 2015 Dick Smith Gala Dinner. The third annual event was in support of Ability First Australia, a not for profit organisation whose primary objective is to support Australians living with a disability. Held at The Westin Sydney, the fundraising event was hosted by Network Ten news presenter Natarsha Belling and included a line-up of stellar performances from Darren Percival, Justice Crew and Stan Walker. Pictured above is Chris Ball, American Express; Tracy Thomas, Emirates and Rob Gurr, Ynot Concepts. |
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A group of Melbourne travel agents were treated to an eight-day fam trip of North India last month, hosted by India Unbound, Air India and Incredible India. The agents can be seen above enjoying a glass of champagne whilst “On Safari” with their hosts from Chanoud Garh, about half way between Jodphur and Udaipur. The group travelled to the salt lake in a four-wheel drive, where they sipped sunset cocktails and grazed on canapés. Pictured from left to right are: Mahiraj Singh, gm Chanoud Garh; Dawn McKiernan, marketing manager Bayview Travel; Peter Power, industry sales manager India Unbound; Cathy Sullivan, director Eastern Hill Travel; Lincoln Harris, director India Unbound; Tanya Van Angeren, director Sorrento Travel & Cruise; Rhonda Paice, director Williamstown Travel & Cruise; Kay Franklin, director The Travel Agency Moonee Ponds and Lisa Myers, director Wow! Travel & Cruises Balwyn. |
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Helen Wong’s Tours joined with Sichuan Provincial Tourism Administration to host a 10-day educational to China for eleven Australian travel agents. The famil focused on Chengdu, China (home of the giant panda), Jiuzhaigou and its scenic alpine region, Huanglong, Sichuan, @Dujiangyan and Leshan. Pictured in the front row: Naomi Liss, TravelManagers Australia; Tracy Cosgriff, TravelManagers; Madelyn Austin, Our Vacation Centre; Kirsty Thomas-Thoeun, MTA – Mobile Travel Agents and Jaqueline Johnson, Anywhere Travel. In the back row: Linda Critchell, MTA; Christine Gunning, Capital Travel Manuka; James Lochhead, Flight Centre Australia Springwood; Janelle Paton, Escape Travel Willows; Shane Harris, Our Vacation Centre and Erin Rauchle, Flight Centre Dubbo. |
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These South Australian agents enjoyed a week exploring Sri Lanka’s famous cultural triangle on a recent On the Go Tours fam. The trip included visits to the exquisite Dambulla cave temple, the historic Temple of the Tooth in Kandy and meeting Sri Lanka’s orphaned elephants at Pinnawala. Other highlights included sipping a cup of the finest Ceylon tea awaiting them at the heart of Sri Lanka’s tea plantation at the hill resort of Nuwara Eliya. Pictured visiting the iconic rock fortress of Sigiriya, standing 200 metres high in the middle of verdant jungle from left are Chris Jones, Flight Centre Australia Glenelg; Lauren Calandro, Flight Centre Mawson Lakes, Becky Kent-Perchalla, Travel Associates Perchalla & Turner; Michelle Zienkiewicz, TravelManagers Australia; Dani Curtis, Flight Centre St Agnes; Renay Watson, Flight Centre Whyalla; Di Bignell, On The Go Tours SA/NT/Asia business development manager; Adam Riessen, Flight Centre SA/NT head office and Ashlee Cutting, Tailor Made Travel, Mt Gambier. |
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Thursday saw the official opening of the 17th annual Sydney Night Noodle Markets in Hyde Park, with Macau as the exclusive international tourism body sponsor for the event. Macau Govt Tourist Office (Australia) gm Helen Wong said visitors to the pavilion can take a seat, dine on noodles and learn about Macau’s many highlights of the “genuine global centre for tourism and leisure”. The event will run until the 25 Oct. Pictured at the Macau Pavilion, in front of the recreation of the Ruins of St. Paul’s, from left are Ben Zaubzer of Macau Tourism AU-NZ with Franziska McCarthy and Richard Jones from Cathay Pacific Airways. |
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senior execs from Expedia Inc celebrated the 10th anniversary of the OTA’s operation in Australia through the expedia.com.au channel in Sydney this week. Chief executive officer Dara Khosrowshahi and chief financial officer Mark Okerstrom flew into the Harbour City from the US for a whirlwind visit to mark the occasion with the local office. Khosrowshahi told media on Wed “Australia is a market that we are really interested in…it’s a terrific market.” He said Expedia’s business here is “growing nicely,” revealing sales generated in one week now are equivalent to what the OTA made in its debut year back in 2005. Speaking of the merger with the Wotif Group, the Seattle-based boss referred to the Aussie company as “kind of a perfect match” for Expedia Inc. The businesses complement each other, with Expedia.com.au tending to create more outbound sales, while the majority of Wotif’s sales are domestic product. |
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Last night travel industry heavyweights mingled with politicians at Parliament House in Melbourne, to celebrate the inaugural meeting of the Victorian Friends of Tourism. Virgin Australia Parliament House, Melbourne #VictorianFriendsofTourism |
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Congrats to the Pacific Resort Hotel Group, who were represented by two properties at this year’s Seven Star Global Luxury Awards. Pacific Resort Aitutaki, Cook Islands was once again presented with the Signum Virtutis Seal of Excellence for Luxury Resorts, whilst Te Manava Luxury Villas & Spa, Rarotonga – Cook Islands was presented with the same honour in the Luxury Residences category. |
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A selection of authentic Maori experiences awaited this group of Aussie & NZ agents during a recent famil trip. Activities included a waka tour, cultural Maori performances at the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, viewing giant kauri trees, visiting the Kauri Museum and participating in a guided walk to the summit of Rangitoto Island. Coinciding with the trip was the annual New Zealand Maori Tourism Day, taking place at the Auckland War Museum and organised by NZ Maori Tourism. The group was hosted by KUPU tourism, Air New Zealand and the Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development (ATEED) Maori Tourism Team. Assisting the famil with transport was TIME Unlimited Tours. |
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These MTA – Mobile Travel Agents recently experienced Vietnam on a Virtuoso, Specialists in the Art of Travel study tour with Trails of Indochina. Over nine days, the agents travelled from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi and Ha Long Bay, visiting Danang and Hoi An. Pictured in the back row at the Park Hyatt Saigon are: Ton Hong Ngoc, Park Hyatt; Linh Le, Trails of Indochina; Lindy Andrews, Trails of Indochina AU/NZ; Federica Bugnara, Park Hyatt; Jackie Pennock, MTA; Jan-Hendrik Meidinger, gm Park Hyatt. In front are MTA’s Janine Methven, Margie Stimson, Ann McKinnon, Karen Follett, Allison Hoyland and Deborah Gray. |
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Nine incentive winners watched the #Wallabies storm to victory against the Flying Fiji in their first game of the #RugbyWorldCup at Cardiff last month. The retail consultants were the highest sellers of #RWC packages and were hosted by Infinity Holidays and Korean Air. The group also experienced an Soho International Food Tour, London Bike Tour and sightseeing in Cardiff & Bath. Pictured above are Caroline Elton, Haley O’Neil, Vince Arnone, Amanda Cantore, Debra Gibb, Lauren Jennions, Sasha Manz, Hollie White, Vicky Colovic, Rhiannon de (and an enthusiastic flag-bearing photobomber). |
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Nine top selling agents experienced Darwin and the Top End on a famil hosted by Sunlover Holidays last month. Highlights include a visit to Crocosaurus Cove, a Charles Darwin Sunset Buffet Dinner & Cruise, the Mindil Beach Markets and a two-day Kakadu National Park & East Alligator River Tour Pictured in the back row are: Dallas Shaw, Gympie Getaway Travel; Hannah Fleming, Esplanade Travel; Jessica Moscatelli, Windsong Inverell; Tamara Jones, helloworld Kotara and Bevan Carson, Sunlover Holidays. Front: Stacey Skinner, Helloworld Warrnambool; Karen Walkley, Flower Travel; Tara Fenning, Helloworld Lisarow; Shannon Threlfall, Newcastle Travel and Vanessa Pine, Helloworld Strathpine. |
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Some 120 agents across Sydney attended Insider Journeys trade event at STUDIO Sydney Tower on Tuesday. Frontline sellers were briefed by passionate Insider Journeys staff about the extensive product line-up and destinations serviced, hearing what’s new and hot from four presenters on Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, Laos, China, Borneo and India. Launched at the event – and to be on agent shelves next week – is Insider Journeys’ 2015/17 Asian River Cruising brochure. The program covers five rivers, Halong Bay, remote rivers in the north of Vietnam and more than 25 vessels. It also sees the combination of Small Group Journeys with river cruising, due to the rapid growth in the segment and demand from customers, providing a seamless river/land itinerary. |
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APT is continuing its series of free consumer roadshows next month, with all bookings made being attributed back to the trade. Events will be held in Sydney (06 Oct), Newcastle (13 Oct), Brisbane (15 Oct), Melbourne (19 Oct) and Adelaide (22 Oct). A variety of special deals will be available to book only on the night and the expos will feature a number of presentations and the expertise of a team of APT representatives. In addition, information sessions will head to country areas along the East Coast and in South Australia, taking place in Toowoomba (06 Oct), Mornington (12 Oct), Bendigo (15 Oct), Port Macquarie (23 Oct), Port Lincoln (27 Oct) & Wollongong (27 Oct). Pictured raring to go at the expos, from left is Nadia Nasello, Ryan Montgomery, Melanie Hogg, Rowena Morris and Tammy Te Moananui. |
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Norfolk Select founder David Bantoft celebrated his 90th visit to Norfolk Island with nine Travellers Choice members, supported by Air New Zealand and Norfolk Island Tourism. The agents dined at Norfolk Blue Restaurant Grill & Bar and Dino’s and visited the boutique Two Chimneys Winery. Bantoft took the agents on a breakfast bush walk, a Pinetree Tours ‘Progressive Dinner’ of Norfolk Island homes and a tour of the new Discovery Centre in Norfolk Island’s Botanical Gardens. |
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These agents took a slice out of Japan earlier this month during an eight-day educational hosted by the Japan National Tourism Organization. The group visited Osaka, Nara, Kyoto and Tokyo, where they were treated to a selection of cultural experiences, including meeting a geisha and a samurai lesson. Pictured ready for battle are: Jeremy Potter, Phil Hoffmann Travel ; Kim Scoular, Scenic; Tracey Williams, Bayview Travel; Sarah Fitzgerald, Botanica World Discoveries and Liza Rarm from American Express Travel |
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Product managers from some of Australia and New Zealand’s top wholesale sellers of the Solomon Islands sampled the destination first hand on a recent reconnaissance mission. The trip also gave the senior product managers a chance to meet with execs from hotels, resorts, inbound tourism operators, transport providers and tour companies at a mini-market held in Honiara at Heritage Park Hotel. The troupe were guests of Visit Solomon Islands and Solomon Airlines. |
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Glitz and glamour left the Nevada Desert last week, briefly relocating to Sydney for a special event hosted by the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority. In conjunction with the itravel network, LVCVA hosted a small group of agents to sample some of the entertainment available on the famed Strip. Agents enjoyed a special Sydney performance of Absinthe, a mash-up of old-style burlesque with specialty acts and comedy – currently on a tour of Sydney. |
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A group of Flight Centre Australia agents recently enjoyed a nine-day Great Wall and Warriors tour courtesy of On the Go Tours. The agents explored the bustling cities and rich cultural heritage of Beijing, Xian and Shanghai, sampled the cuisine and explored ancient temples and pagodas. |
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NSW Tourism Minister Stuart Ayres recently awarded recipients of the 2015 Minister’s Student Achiever Awards in Tourism & Hospitality at Parliament House. Thirteen students were recognised at the ceremony, also attended by AFTA education and training director Rick Myatt. The recipients were also given the opportunity to meet high-level representatives from key tourism & hospitality employers. Destination NSW |
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A group from TravelManagers Australia were donning their fancy frocks and best suits as they enjoyed a day out at the races over the weekend. The Melbourne-based PTMs and some of their clients were treated by Emirates to a day of dressing up & hopefully backing a winner. Emirates was celebrating the start of Spring Carnival as it ramps up to the Emirates Melbourne Cup Carnival at Flemington Racecourse on Nov’s first Tuesday. The first day was themed ‘Sofitel Girls Day Out’, with all the guests escorted up to the Emirates corporate suite for the day. At their disposal were private betting facilities, open bar and all-day platters of finger food. Pictured overlooking the track from left are Personal Travel Managers Derek Harwood, Jeremy Ferguson, Kylie Luttrell, Beverly Fitzsimons, Julie Lunn, Joanne Haines, Scott Hallo, Matt Collins and Kellie Browning, along with Carl Matto from Emirates. |
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The first of two mega-famils to Abu Dhabi has just returned to Australia, with 50 top-performing agents (pictured) enjoying a six-day customised UAE experience. The group was welcomed to Abu Dhabi with an extravagant welcome function inside the world’s highest suspended presidential suite at the St Regis Abu Dhabi. Then, split into three groups, each was treated to luxurious accommodation, gourmet dining experiences and entry to many of the emirate’s popular attractions. These included the expansive thrills of Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, Yas Waterworld, the Al Jahili Fort in Al Ain and the Sheik Zayed Grand Mosque. Agents were also able to enjoy a short stay at the Qasr Al Sarab or Tilal Liwa Hotel, both in the remove Al Gharbia region. The famil was run by Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority in conjunction with Etihad Airways and Virgin Australia, which both flew participants to Abu Dhabi. A second mega-famil group is scheduled for Apr next year. |
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AFL team Western Bulldogs have a new celebrity fan in Richard Branson. Guests of Virgin Australia were lucky enough to be snapped with the iconic entrepreneur at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) during a recent preliminary final. |
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Travel Daily was a guest of Tourism Fiji for an exquisite lunch at the Royal Motor Yacht Club of NSW to celebrate the #RugbyWorldCup2015. The event was co-sponsored by Taylors Wines #rwc2015 #fiji Peter Everett @pruemacsween @dailybailey10 |
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Stunning #sydney day for the #blackmores #sydneyrunningfestival thanks @destination_nsw |
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An important part about climbing the Sydney Harbour Bridge is not to distract any of the drivers crossing below – that’s why the suits match the colour of the bridge itself. But come Mardi Gras next year, climbers will be dancing their way to the summit. BridgeClimb Sydney has announced a special climb experience will be available to book from 25 Feb to 09 Mar 2016 as part of celebrations for the annual Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras Festival. Climbers will be treated to a dance party of 1980’s classics through their headsets as they ascend the famous archway. Guests will also be able to belt out their favourite hits via a karaoke machine positioned at 134 metres above sea level. |
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The US Department of Justice has given the green light for Expedia to close its acquisition of Orbitz Worldwide, the latest in a string of high-profile takeovers which has also included Australia’s Wotif and Travelocity. #allapproved |
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The purchase of Transit Systems Marine by the SeaLink Travel Group will see the firm’s ferry fleet grow from 27 to 60. The company operates Brisbane’s Stradbroke Ferries in Moreton Bay, among other operations in SE Queensland. |
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Dreamworld’s new globe destined to be a selfie landmark in its own right for #Queensland – #DWhappiness |
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B2B wholesaler Excite Holidays has unveiled a new training and information portal in an move to provide travel agents with more in-depth knowledge. Info carried on the site includes interviews with industry experts, selling hints and tips, the wholesaler’s latest incentives and famil opportunities, quizzes, competitions and Excite Holidays’ latest technology innovations. |
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Earlybird fares to UK/Europe, North America, Canada, South America and South Africa from Qantas are now in market. Economy class fares to London start from $1,786 inclusive of taxes. |
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The falling Aussie dollar is indeed impacting on arrivals to the USA, down 4% in March, according to the US Dept of Commerce and contradicting a number of reports suggesting otherwise. Brand USA |
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A revised Revenue Management System helping agents better book Married Flight Segments will be progressively launched by Qantas over the remainder of 2015. For more details, see http://www.qantas.com.au/agents/dyn/qf/info/201509/0914. @Qantas #MarriedFlights |
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Congrats to Ketkan Photnikorn, the winner of the Travel Daily Super 15 Rugby Tipping Competition! Photnikorn will be heading to the hub of Emirates in Dubai – here she is accepting her prize from Emirates Sales Executive Michael Heath. |
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The first two winners of APT’s incentives for Sep have been announced, with Scarlett Trewavis (pictured) from FC Watergardens the first winner of APT’s #APTtheBest incentive. Trewavis will receive an all inclusive luxury Mekong cruise as reward for her picture and entry. helloworld Camberwell won APT’s travel agency incentive – which grants automatic entry into a special weekly draw for each and every APT booking made and deposited in Sep. The agency will also receive a $1,500 APT marketing voucher. |
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Uber-luxury Palazzo Versace Dubai earmark pre-Christmas opening, some 7 years behind schedule. |
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Cholita wrestling in La Paz, Bolivia. New to Evergreen Tours’ 2016 South America program – out now. |
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The Leading Hotels of the World’s Spring Roadshow brought 13 of its luxury collection to Sydney and Melbourne for a series of luxurious events. Barry Gervan and Jane Tatham from Wentworth Travel with Kevin Kirby, Leading Hotels of the World and Amanda Erwin, MTA attended the roadshow. |
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Helloworld Eastgardens hosted a cocktail party to celebrate its grand opening after the agency has joined the helloworld network. Pictured are: Lisa Harvey, consultant; Roy Billing, helloworld AAT Kings #SaySorryLater ambassador; Linda Taylor, store manager; Joanne Watson, consultant and Tiffany Rudd, consultant. |
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In case you live in a galaxy far far away & haven’t seen it, here’s ANA’s #StarWars livery @FlyANA_official #avgeek |
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In case you live in a galaxy far far away & haven’t seen it, here’s ANA’s #StarWars livery @FlyANA_official #avgeek |
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In case you live in a galaxy far far away & haven’t seen it, here’s ANA’s #StarWars livery @FlyANA_official #avgeek |
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In case you live in a galaxy far far away & haven’t seen it, here’s ANA’s #StarWars livery @FlyANA_official #avgeek |
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QLD PTMs shine at the 2015 TravelManagers Conference in Adelaide over the weekend. |
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The lovely Di hits the dance floor following the awards ceremony. |
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Thailand was announced as the host destination for the 2016 TravelManagers conference. Tourism Thailand were also the sponsors for last night’s Gala Awards Dinner. Steve Fonagy of Tourism Thailand is pictured here with TravelManagers’ Grant Campbell, Barry Mayo, Joe Araullo and Michael Gazal. |
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Nicole Edgar showcasing her award-winning plaque. |
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NPO Team standing proud after a great 2015 conference! |
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What stunning ladies! VIC Business Partnership Manager, Kellie Browning and QLD Business Partnership Manager, Karen Dowling. |
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The Spirit Award recipient went to PTM Nicole Edgar pictured here with TravelManagers Australia Chairman, Barry Mayo. This was awarded to Nicole for living, breathing and reflecting the heart and soul of TravelManagers. |
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The smiles say it all. Congratulations to all the 2015 TravelManagers winners. |
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Melanie Carter took out the Advocate Award, a new category judged by the Partnership team for PTMs who are advocates for the brand. Mel is pictured here celebrating with fellow PTMs Kerrin Poupos and Julie Lunn. |
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Top 10 PTM Lea Burford and Luke Vaughan, recipient of the Choice Award voted by his PTM peers. |
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Top PTM NSW/ACT & Top 10 PTM Ric Pattaro with winner of the Dedication Award, Lisa Metzl, celebrating 10 years working in partnership. |
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Winners are grinners! Ric Pattaro, Lisa Metzl, Jose Canas, Karen Farley, Maria Miller, John Lengacher, Melanie Whyte, Lea Burford, Rebecca Crosbie, Melanie Carter, Luke Vaughan and James Hermiston. |
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Victoria Business Partner Manager, Kellie Browning congratulates PTM James Hermiston on his trifecta, picking up awards for Most Improved PTM QLD/NT, Top PTM QLD/NT and Top 10 PTM 2015. |
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2015 PTM of the Year Winner Rebecca Crosbie, awarded for the top commission in the entire network for the past year. Rebecca is pictured here with category and prize sponsor, Etihad Airways staff – Marcos Best, Belle Braybrook and Nadar Harmouche. |
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TravelManagers Support Award won by Fares & Ticketing Manager Jose Canas of the NPO team. PTMs nominated Jose for going above and beyond to support them over the past year. He’s pictured with HOT Australia ceo Joe Araullo. |
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PTM Melanie Carter, winner of the Advocate Award 2015. This was a new category judged by the Partnership team for PTMs who are advocates for the brand. Mel is pictured here with TravelManagers National Partnership Manager, Suzanne Laister. |
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It’s the National Partnership Office flash mob! Grant Campbell, Michael Gazal, Joe Araullo, Pru Gallagher and Team HQ busting their moves on the dance floor. |
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Too kool for skool! TM bosses show the audience some funky dance moves. |
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Happy 10th Birthday TravelManagers! This milestone was celebrated at last night’s awards with Joe Araullo, Lisa Metzl, Michael Gazal and Grant Campbell cutting the celebratory cake. |
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Some of the Top 10 2015 PTMs for recognised for the highest commission transfers between July 2014-30 June 2015. |
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Yours truly Tim Swan of Air New Zealand (aka Elvis) with Comedian-Ventriloquist Darren Carr . |
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Jane Fowler, Matt Halloran, Karen Dowling, Merran Wiggans and Zoe Hemming. |
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PTM Melanie Whyte, recipient of two awards last night – Most Improved PTM National and Recognition Award 201.5 |
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WA represented! Perth PTMs Jane Fowler, Carolynne Cannon, Doug Harman, Michelle Edmead and Lesley Cavill. |
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Brock Kreymborj and Victoria PTM Alisha Bardsley |
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Lismore PTM Jannelle Beucker, Matthew Edwards from Buffalo Tours and Casino PTM Sarah Bird. |
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The amazing TravelManagers team raised a whopping $16,553 for Adelaide-based Little Heroes Foundation over the conference weekend. |
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Malbourne PTMs Naomi Liss and Kathy Hurd with Stephen York of Albatross Tours. |
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Captain Craig Owens with new recruit PTM. |
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Sydney-based PTMs Teresa Reyes, Lyn Tyson, Alma Araullo and Kylie Cilek looking glamorous as they arrive at the Adelaide Convention Centre last night. |
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Emcee for the evening was Comedian-Ventriloquist Darren Carr had the audience in stitches from laughter. |
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Sydney Airport bids bye-bye bio beagles – brings in labradors @sydairport #doglover #beagles #labrador #biosecurity |
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Evergreen Tours has christened its two newest vessels, Emerald Sun & Emerald Dawn in Budapest |
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Capri by Fraser 283-room hotel set for Chippendale, Sydney – details in @travel_daily @FraserApartment @CapriByFraser |
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Good to see a #ntia2015 winner making the most of it at the CAPA conference in Sydney today @FCmaustralia |
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Gourmet dinner @impromptudining at Longshot Beecroft great way to start the week.. |
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Celebrating the launch of the Avis travel agent scholarship at @fssydney |
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More birthday celebrations in the travel daily office today… |
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#sugarrush in the @traveldailyau offices this morning – thanks @aptouring for helping us celebrate #traveldaily21 and #ntia2015 |
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And the #traveldaily21 gifts keep on coming – thanks to @thetravelcorp for some lovely bubbly!! |
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Congratulations to Travellers Choice best travel agency group!!! #ntia2015 |
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and here it, the final award of the night! #NTIA2015 ‘Best Travel Agency Group (100 outlets or more)’. Finalists are: |
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2nd last award of the nigh up nextt! – #NTIA2015 ‘Best Non Branded Travel Agency Group’. The finalists are: |
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Just 3 #NTIA2015 left to go! Next up is ‘Emirates Travel Consultant Scholarship’. Finalists are: |
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Taking to the open seas for the next #NTIA2015 award – ‘Best Cruise Operator – International Deployment’. Finalists are: |
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Next…. #NTIA2015 ‘Best River Cruise Operator’. Finalists are: |
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Where setting sail for the next few awards.. first up is #NTIA2015 ‘Best Cruise Ship – Domestic Deployment’: Finalists are: |
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Coming up now is #NTIA2015 ‘Best Wholesaler – International Product’. Finalists are: |
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Next up….#NTIA2015 ‘Best Tour Operator – International’: Finalists are: |
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Coming up next is #NTIA2015 ‘Best Wholesaler – Australian Product’. Finalists are: |
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next up is ‘Best Tour Operator – Domestic’. Finalists are: |
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Next up we’ve got #NTIA2015 ‘Best Specialty Wholesaler’. The finalists are: |
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Coming up…. #NTIA2015 ‘Best Online Travel Agency (OTA)’. Finalists are: |
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Next…. #NTIA2015 ‘Best Car/Campervan Rental Operator’. Finalists are: |
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Coming up now is #NTIA2015 ‘Best International Airline – Online’: Finalists are: |
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Next #NTIA2015 award is for ‘Best International Airline – Offline’: Finalists are: |
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and next we have #NTIA2015 ‘Best Tourist Office International’. Finalists are: |
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Up next #NTIA2015 ‘Best Agency Support Service’. Finalists this year are: |
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Next up is #NTIA2015 ‘Best Sales Executive – Industry Supplier’: Finalists are: |
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And next #NTIA2015 award is for ‘Rookie of the Year – Supplier’: This year’s finalists are: |
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Coming up now is #NTIA2015 ‘Best Hotel/Resort Group’, Finalists are: |
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Next #NTIA2015 award is for ‘Best Registered Travel Industry Training Institution’: Finalists are: |
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Next award is Best Travel Writer #NTIA2015 finalists are: |
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next up…. #NTIA2015 ‘Best Travel Agent Technology Innovation’ : Finalists are: |
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Next #NTIA2015 category is for ‘Best National Travel Management Company’. Finalists are: |
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Next up, #NTIA2015 ‘Best Business Events Travel Agency’. Finalists are: |
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Finalists for the #NTIA2015 ‘Best Travel Agency – Corporate Multi Location’ are: |
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Finalists for the next #NTIA2015 category ‘Best Travel Agency – Corporate Single Location’ are: |
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Next we’re going to see the winner of ‘Best Travel Agency – Retail Multi Location’: Finalists this year are: |
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Now we are see the finalists for ‘Best Travel Agency – Retail Single Location’ #NTIA2015 |
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Next up is #NTIA2015 ‘Best Travel Agency Manager- Corporate Multi Location’. Finalists are |
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Up next is #NTIA2015 ‘Best Travel Agency Manager – Retail Multi Location’ – Finalists are: |
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Next #NTIA2015 category is for ‘Best Travel Agency Manager – Corporate Single Location’. Finalists are: |
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The next award is for #NTIA2015 ‘Best Travel Agency Manager – Retail Single Location’. The finalists are: |
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Coming up next is #NTIA2015 ‘Best Travel Consultant – Corporate’. Finalists are |
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Look it’s @wendyharmer with halina kubica from Greece and Mediterranean travel centre at #ntia2015 |
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Next award is Best Travel Consultant – Retail #NTIA2015 |
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First award of the night is ‘Rookie of the Year – Agent’. Finalists are: |
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Travel industry legends jenny and Jim cooper from @queanbeyancitytravel at #ntia2015 |
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@qantas international CEO Gareth Evans welcomes guests to the 2015 National Traver Awards #ntia2015 #traveldaily21 |
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Wow what a lovely #traveldaily21 birthday surprise thanks so much @amadeusitpac #letscelebrate #ntia2015 tonight |
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Wow what a lovely #traveldaily21 birthday surprise thanks so much @amadeusitpac #letscelebrate #ntia2015 tonight |
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Wow thanks @dubaitourism @visitdubai for a lovely surprise #traveldaily21 gift #sugarrush #justwhatweneedafteratradeshow #tie15 |
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Thanks @exciteholidays for a fabulous #traveldaily21 present #shots #tie15 |
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The boys from McLachlan Travel Group helping us celebrate our 21st birthday. #traveldaily21 #tie15 |
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It’s all happening at the Travel Industry Exhibition, pop by our stand and say hello to the Travel Daily and travelBulletin team. #tie15 #traveldaily21 |
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A full house for the first 2015 Travel Industry Exhibition #TIE15 seminar at Luna Park – everyone wants to know about SEO! |
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Let the party begin! #traveldaily21 #tie15 |
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Come and get a charge at the Travel Industry Exhibition tomorrow #tie15 #traveldaily21 |
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TD is celebrating a big birthday this week post your photos with the hashtag #traveldaily21 to be in the running to win a Champagne hamper. |
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Qantas showcasing cocktails to the travel industry at the ATAB conference today #qantassips #traveldaily21 |
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Thrilled to be part of today’s ATAB conference in Sydney #traveldaily21 |
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Easy to see why we are a #nanukufan. #nanukuresort #whplowaltitude #iphoneonly |
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It’s never a crabby day at Nanuku.#nanukufan #whplowaltitude |
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Things getting hot underfoot tonight – Fire walking at fiji’s nanuku resort #nanukufan #FTE2015 |
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Look what’s being shown at Fijian Tourism Exchange – Butterflies of Fiji will release these at your Fiji wedding! #fte2015 |
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@flightcentreau has just sealed a deal with @airasia #travel |
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How lucky is Travel Daily to be based in the best city in the world! #ilovesydney #vividsydney |
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True Disneyland fans nabbing a good spot for the all new Paint the Night parade more than 8 hours before it begins! #Disneyland60 |
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Diamond dessert! Embracing the 60th anniversary spirit. It tasted great too! #Disneyland60 |
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Dole Whip! A Disneyland specialty! #Disneyland60 |
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Some dessert delights at the Diamond celebration party!! #disneyland60 @disneyland |
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Not a bad balcony view from Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa! #Disneyland60 @Disneyland |
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A stunning nz day jetboating with river jet @purenewzealand #nzmustdo #weloveriverjet |
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@humannaturelive wrapping up their australian tour tonite congrats on 25 years boys from @traveldailyau @travel_daily |
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Thanks @shangrilahotels for a fabulous last night after #ATMDubai #mydubai @emirates |
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One hump or two? Getting set for a game at the Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club #mydubai |
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Best coffee at #ATMDubai so far @theaddresshotels stand #mydubai @emirates |
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A stunning evening at Jumeirah’s Madinat complex #ATMDubai |
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Julie King from Dubai Tourism at #ATMDubai #MyDubai with CAPTAIN AMERICA |
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Aussie buyers strut the red carpet at the #ATMDubai opening night party courtesy of Taj Hotels #mydubai |
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Aussie buyers strut the red carpet at the #ATMDubai opening night party courtesy of Taj Hotels #mydubai |
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Everything is awesome at #atmdubai #mydubai |
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Clive Palmer eat your heart out – the new #imgworld theme park in #mydubai has its own dinosaur kingdom |
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Still a long way up at #burjkhalifa – the skywards view from the 148th floor #mydubai |
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You feel like you can see the whole world – or at least the Dubai version- from @atthetopburjkhalifa #mydubai |
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An early start heading to Dubai for @ATMdubai but some yummy breakfast in the @emirates lounge helps ease the pain |
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Nothing evokes 1940s aviation like a giant ice sculpture of a flying boat @flyairnz |
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Boogie woogie on board sydney Harbour helping @flyairnz celebrate 75 years in Australia |
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Grab a copy of the latest travelBulletin at tonight’s @travel_daily JITO networking night #tdnetworking |
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Buenos Aires has really gone to the dogs @flyairnz |
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Playing polo in Argentina today – as you do… @flyairnz |
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Cafe Tortoni – a Buenos Aires institution @flyairnz |
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Argentina – the best place for carnivores!! @flyairnz will get your here quickly from later this year |
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Toby Smith and Nelson Chin from Cathay Pacific getting social to celebrate the new #lifewelltravelled campaign |
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Feeling the serenity on Sydney Harbour tonight… |
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Now I really can’t wait to get into the shower! Delegates at Visitbritain’s ExploreGB showcase are staying @LEGOLANDWindsor. |
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And to top it all off camels and macarons on a mini hills hoist.., |
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Last dish – evoking Dubai – George Calombaris’ dates in the sand |
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Next course at The Press Club – deconstructed moussaka of course! |
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And this course evokes @ooresorts Wolgan Valley on a misty mountsins morning |
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And second course evoking the Great Barrier Reef thanks george and @ooresorts |
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First course at Melbourne’s The Press Club courtesy George Calombaris and @ooresorts Hayman and Wolgan! |
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Perfect Melbourne evening for a flight… |
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Wow! Entree at Ezard courtesy @shangrilahotels |
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Breakfast pizza at Gradi – thanks to #crownmelb @crownresorts #destination4success |
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Atlantis The Palm put on a cornucopia of delights this morning in Sydney |
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Here’s how Sydney celebrates Chinese New Year! |
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View from the amazing Cheval Three Quays apartments. |
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Big event here tonight… |
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Enjoying the Australian Open, thanks Emirates |
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A new Ungolan Pavilion with lounge, bar & dining area will soon open at @APTouring Mitchell Falls Wilderness Lodge. |
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Ecruising.travel celebrates 15 years tonight – hearty congratulations from Travel Daily! |
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Dessert – the final delectable course for lunch aboard @regentcruises Seven Seas Mariner in Sydney today |
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China Eastern ad lost in translation – “Crispy touched screen” courtesy of @AirlineHubBuzz |
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The McCarthy salad a specialty at the ‘Polo Lounge’ at The Beverly Hills Hotel. #lovebevhills @qantas |
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Star spotting on the TMZ tour! No celebs seen but thoroughly entertained by our Aussie guide Charlie! #lovebevhills |
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Only in America! The Sprinkles cupcake ATM. #lovebevhills @qantas |
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Breakfast feast at Della’s Kitchen @Delano #AusFAMinvegas @vegas |
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Lunch at the Chefs Table at the Bellagio! Delicious prime rib served at the table. #AusFAMinvegas @vegas @qantas @bellagio |
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Helicopter flight over the Grand Canyon, unforgettable experience. #AusFAMinVegas #maverickhelicopters @vegas @ qantas |
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Can’t beat the view of the strip from the High Roller. #AusFAMinVegas @vegas @qantas @vegashighroller |
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Las Vegas THE destination for entertainment. The legendary Olivia Newton-John. #AusFAMinVegas @vegas @qantas |
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Great street art in downtown Vegas part of the ‘life is beautiful’ festival. #AusFAMinVegas @vegas @qantas |
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#AusFAMinVegas now at @vegas motor speedway ready for some hot laps @Qantas |
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Partying on at marquee nightclub @CosmopolitanLV #AusFAMinVegas @qantas @vegas what a night |
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Lucky enough to see Human Nature Christmas Motown show! #AusFAMinVegas @vegas @qantas #qantas |
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Drinks @sushisamba at the Venetian #AusFAMinVegas @vegas @qantas |
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Thanks for the welcome,@CosmopolitanLV #AusFAMinVegas @vegas @qantas |
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Classic Las Vegas skyline from @CosmopolitanLV @vegas #AusFAMinVegas @qantas |
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Christmas at the Bellagio #LasVegasAusNZ Thanks @qantas |
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Cirque du Soleil wowing the crowd as #expediapartners final session wraps up |
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@etihadairways CEO James Hogan now on stage at #expediapartners conference Las Vegas |
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Blue Man group opening #expediapartners conference in Las Vegas – sensational |
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Expedia partners conference about to kick off at the @bellagio Las Vegas #expediapartners |
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wow @damiandmusic amazing the #hellonewday Helloworld Frontliners crowd totally awesome |
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Dami Im entertaining Helloworld Frontliners #hellonewday |
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Look! @harrykewell has new luggage after appearing at the Helloworld Frontliners conference in Adelaide #hellonewday |
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#noregrets Contiki Holidays md Katrina Barry presenting at the Helloworld Frontliners conference #hellonewday |
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Harry Kewell catching up on the latest travel industry news @travel_daily at the Helloworld conference #hellonewday |
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Aussie soccer star Harry Kewell with Steve Jacobs @sjweather9 at the Helloworld Frontliners conference #hellonewday |
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@qantasairways serving economy class sliders to everyone at the Helloworld Frontliners conference yum! #hellonewday |
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@sjweather9 Steve Jacobs kicking off the Helloworld Frontliners conference in Adelaide #hellonewday |
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Helloworld CEO Elizabeth Gaines welcoming delegates to the 2014 Helloworld Frontliners conference #hellonewday |
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Chili’s Waikiki – home of the infamous “Frankenchicken”. |
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A taste of Germany in the Emirates marquee at Oaks Day Flemington. |
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Travel Daily is in Melbourne today for a day at the races! |
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Here it is! The October issue of travelBulletin will be in your mailbox shortly – complete with a chainsaw-wielding red tape-cutting Jayson Westbury! If you’re not a subscriber, sign up at travelbulletin.com.au/shop and use the coupon code AGENT for a 40% discount. |
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Crystal cruises CEO Edie Rodriguez in in Sydney today for a stunning lunch event at Chiswick Restaurant |
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Almost 60 agents from Australia and the US joined the Sound of Music tour bus. |
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Some regional tourism representatives visited Hellbrunn Palace in traditional dirndls. |
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Candice Holt, Casey Anderson and Tracey Lowry enjoy a relaxed evening at Hellbrunn Palace. |
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Pictured at the welcome reception are Thomas Bachinger from the Vienna Tourist Board and Klemens Kollenz from Salzburg Tourism. |
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Forty-five hand picked Austrian suppliers shared their latest product news with almost 60 agents from Australia and the US. |
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Supplier presentations were the key focus of the ADS afternoon session. |
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ANTO Australia director Astrid Mulholland-Licht pictured with a number of Australian travel agents. |
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ANTO Australia director Astrid Mulholland-Licht spearheaded the ADS initiative. |
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ANTO Australia director Astrid Mulholland-Licht led proceedings at the Austria. Destination Summit in Salzburg. |
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Tourism New Zealand’s Megafamil kicked off in Auckland before 250 Australian travel agents took off to explore different parts of New Zealand. Travel Daily joined #teamtiki on an AAT Kings tour of parts of Canterbury and Otago. One of the stops along the way was Puzzling World – fun for all ages – at Wanaka. #nzmegafamil #smilekings |
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This agent from the US was given the daunting task of breaking-in the keg – an Austrian tradition. Unfortunately it didn’t end as planned and the Austrian helper (on the right) is now nursing his sore thumb. Yikes! |
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There was plenty of meeting and greeting to be had at the welcome dinner, hosted at the Stiegl Keller Salzburg. This table had agents from the US and Australia, including some Austrian partners. |
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Salzburg’s 500-year-old beer culture was on display. |
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These Aussie agents soaked up the views after the sunset. From left are Candice Holt from Toorak Village Travel & Cruise Australia and Casey Anderson from Hawthorn Travel & Cruise. |
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The Hohensalzburg Fortress is affectionately known as Salzburg’s balcony for its impressive views of the historic city. |
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ANTO Australia director Astrid Mulholland-Licht pictured with several agents and Austrian partners. |
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These US agents from Texas and Chicago nabbed the best seat in the house, with 360 degree views of Salzburg. |
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These Aussies watched the sun dip below the horizon with spectacular views of Salzburg. From left, Donna Kranas, Savenio; Karen Plunkett, RACT Travel Hobart, Vitina Mazzarino, Global International Travel. |
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More than 20 Australian agents are in Austria this week for the second Austria. Destination Summit. Pictured from left are Cathy Campbell, Travel Phase; Alex Facy, Phil Hoffmann Travel and US agent Yvonne Malka from Non Stop Travel in California. |
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Enjoying the view from the fortress are an ANTO representative and Austrian partners Michaela Klotz from Solden and Miriam Scherl from St. Anton. |
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Around 60 agents were joined by 45 Austrian industry partners for the welcome dinner at Hohensalzburg Fortress. Pictured are two US agents on the historic funicular railway. |
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Stopping for a quick photo opportunity in the Mirabell gardens are Casey Anderson from Hawthorn Travel & Cruise (second from left) and Lizette Braithwate from Corporate Travel Management (third from left). They are pictured with a number of US consultants. |
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Yee ha! Welcome to cowtown USA @visitfortworth #qantas2dfw |
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Part of the World Trade Center – in the very moving 9/11 memorial at the George W. Bush library and museum in dallas #qantas2dfw |
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Ready for some big decisions? Inside the White House situation room at the George W. Bush presidential library and museum in dallas #qantas2dfw |
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Thanks to @dallascvb watching ice hockey at American Airlines stadium in dallas #qantas2dfw |
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Look who’s on the gate welcoming passengers arriving in dallas on the first ever @qantasairways a380 flight. |
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@qantasairways is handing out these delights at check in at Sydney airport today to celebrate the inaugural a380 flight from Sydney to dallas. |
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Look it’s @shannanponton training some of the biggest winners on board @carnivaloz #carnivallegend |
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And @traveldailyau team out the back! #ntia2014 |
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The @traveldailyau team working hard on a Saturday night! #NTIA2014 |
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The stage is set for a huge national travel industry awards night #ntia2014 |
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Sick of winter and looking forward to the warmer seasons? Check out Carnival Cruise Lines deals for their Christmas and New Year #cruises. See: http://bit.ly/1slou3M |
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Thanks @oohaymanisland for an amazing helicopter transfer via the Whitsundays’ famous Heart Reef. |
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Now that’s what I call a cupcake! This is what greeted guests on today’s @qantasairways inaugural to Hamilton island when they arrived in their rooms at One&Only Hayman Island resort. |
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Look who’s just landed @hamiltonisland – @QantasAirways very excited about @OOHaymanIsland |
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A glass of bubbles atop the Hotel Raphael in a perfect Paris evening #frenchtravel |
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Balloons over the Loire Valley – spectacular |
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Fairytale trip to France’s Loire Valley – thanks for the recommendations French Travel Connection #frenchtravel |
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View of the beautiful Danube from our window at the Intercontinental Budapest #suiteships |
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pre-Captain’s Farewell Dinner on inaugural Emerald Waterways famil aboard Emerald Sky |
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Td is in Melbourne today for the arrival of royal brunei’s first 787 Dreamliner flight to Australia – and here she is! |
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@mlbsydney2014 scg looking fantastic |
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Making sure the fans know the words at the Major League Baseball warm-up match in Sydney |
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Garuda Indonesia now officially a member of SkyTeam – as evidenced by this gigantic animated aircraft at the welcoming ceremony gala dinner in Bali tonight |
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The AIME intro begins with a bang (of drums) |
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Setting sail with the winners in the annual travel corporation regatta |
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Look who turned up on the Royal Caribbean stand at cruise3sixty today #C360OZ |
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In what US city would you spot this gigantic eyeball? |
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Can you guess what country TD is in this week? |
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Another powder day in vail, Colorado |
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Vail Colorado |
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Stunning snow in vail |
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Look who just announced that Makepeace Island is going to become Australia’s newest boutique hotel. Previously only available for exclusive use, Richard Branson and Brett Godfrey have applied to allow smaller groups or couples to stay in part of the luxury property near Noosa. |
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Congratulations to Danni Hartwell of Escape Travel Belconnen, selected as the latest winner of @Dubai_DTCM and #Emirates mega-incentive. |
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