Happy Friday agents! Get acquainted with all the little travel agent need-to-knows before you sign off for the weekend!

Rail Plus invites agents to its first ever Great Train Journeys Showcase

Travel agents will have an unprecedented opportunity later this month to learn more about the world’s greatest rail voyages – and win some luxury prizes – when Rail Plus unveils its first ever ‘Great Train Journeys Showcase’, with events in Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne.

Representatives from the world’s most renowned rail journeys will for the first time gather together for the three-hour evening events, scheduled to begin in Brisbane (August 28) followed by Sydney (August 29) and Melbourne (August 30).

The line-up will feature a ‘who’s who’ of famous and fascinating train voyages from across Europe, Asia, North and South America, New Zealand and Australia – including every journey featured in the Rail Plus Great Train Journeys brochure.

Agents attending will not only be able to update their knowledge on one of the travel industry’s fastest-growing sectors, they will put themselves in the running to win a range of great rail-related incentives, with details on the prizes to be released closer to the events.

As well as rail operators, the showcases will feature airline sponsor Emirates and a collection of national tourist offices representing key rail destinations, allowing agents to learn more about pre- and post-rail tours.

To register visit here.

Avis, Budget and Apex back in Christchurch Central

After being driven out of the CBD by earthquakes six years ago, Avis, Budget and Apex are delighted to collect the keys to their new building today; the International Rental Car Precinct Hub in Christchurch.

The Hub itself is a three storey dedicated car rental building with five brands represented.

Avis Budget Group, New Zealand General Manager, Bruce Vincer, said; “Like many businesses in Christchurch, we faced challenges brought on by the earthquakes. We feel the new hub is a positive step forward. It’s an exciting time to be in the City as it continues to regenerate and thrive. Our team are thrilled to be in the new premises and will continue to provide a high level of service to the Christchurch travel industry, locals and tourists alike.”

The practical design of the building offers easy access for customers and vehicle drop off on the ground floor, with the two upper levels catering for vehicle servicing and parking – all of which is undercover, making the South Island winters a little more bearable for all.

Last chance to sneak in a 2017 trip to Asia with Contiki

It’s not too late to get a taste of Asia. Leading youth travel provider Contiki is offering agents the chance to lock in all those remaining Asia 2017 departures with a 10% off incentive for clients to book before 31^st of August 2017. Trying the best Pho of their life, catching the first rays of day at Siem Reap, chasing waterfalls in Luang Prabang and cocktails for days will be guaranteed – there will be no escaping the incredible beach and foodie snaps! This Asia August sale gives travellers the chance to sneak in a trip they have been wanting to book all year.

With savings of up to $391 across 10 countries and a range of 13 unique itineraries on offer, this saving is available on all Contiki Asia itineraries, departing 4 August 2017– 31 December 2017 (excluding Japan winter option). Book before 31^st of August to secure a 2017 Asian trip at 10% off.

Last Chance To SAVE This 2017 European Summer! 

Topdeck travel has launched a LAST CHANCE sale to cure those affected by a serious case of FOMO this European Summer. With savings of up to 50% off on selected 2017 Europe Summer departures, now is the very last chance to secure some red-hot deals!

Off the back of Topdeck’s exceptional 2017 Europe sales, this sale provides an opportunity to fill final spots on last minute departures for spontaneous travellers looking to head off on a life-changing adventure between August and October. Customers can see Europe in 11 Days from $948 on Topdeck’s Europe Express trip. Visiting five countries including France, Switzerland, Italy, Germany and the Netherlands, this trip is perfect for customers who are big on ambition but short on time.

Another goodie includes Topdeck’s 13-day Bravo Italia starting from $1640 – that’s a massive saving of up to $1639! Departing the 20th August 2017, the trip showcases the very best of Italy from the ancient wonders of Rome to the renaissance beauty of Florence.

Carnival Cruise Line Moreton Island Offer

Carnival Cruise Line is running a last-minute offer on its August Moreton Island cruise to encourage Aussies to be spontaneous and book a last-minute weekend away.

Aussies who sail on this cruise will also have the opportunity to experience the newest shore excursions at Tangalooma Resort including, transparent kayak tours, sea scooter safaris and view the wonders of the sea through a glass bottomed boat, which can all be booked onboard.

The promotion offers couples reduced fares on twin interior, ocean view and balcony cabins plus up to $200 on board credit per cabin. The offer is available until August 17 on the S730 Carnival Spirit, and from $549 per person for a twin share for four glorious nights, whats not to love?

KORAIL Pass makes travelling in Korea by train so easy

KORAIL is making it easier than ever for tourists and expatriates living in Korea to explore the country by train.  Getting around by rail in Korea is fast, easy and reliable and you can travel from Seoul-Busan, the length of the country in around two hours due to the super- fast KTX services.

Travellers with a foreign passport can purchase a KORAIL PASS, valid for a specific duration and then travel freely  all over Korea within their selected period.

KORAIL PASS is also now more convenient to purchase and use.  Pass users can purchase tickets and make seat selections through the KORAIL website up to thirty days in advance without having to visit the train station in person.

Passes available range from 1, 3, 5 and 7 consecutive day passes, and a 2 and 4 day select pass which is for flexible use.

Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood welcomes Wonder Woman exhibit

Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood celebrates Wonder Woman—the summer’s hottest movie release with more than $726 million at the global box office—with a new behind-the-scenes exhibit to be showcased alongside the permanent collection entitled DC Universe: The Exhibit. The new Wonder Woman exhibit provides fans the opportunity to fully immerse themselves in the world of the film.

For the first time, fans are able to view a collection of authentic props and costumes worn by Gal Gadot (Diana Prince /Wonder Woman), including her Lasso of Hestia, armor, tiara, and her signature sword. Props and costumes worn and utilised by Chris Pine (Steve Trevor), Danny Huston (General Ludendorff), Elena Anaya (Dr. Maru), Said Taghmaoui (Sameer), Ewen Bremner (Charlie), and Eugene Brave Rock (The Chief) are on display for visitors to enjoy as well.

The new Wonder Woman exhibit, now open, showcases a variety of memorable set design elements from the film, including a recreation of the Amazon armory, complete with costumes, props, and décor; the relic display with Diana’s sword; the No Man’s Land vignette, with gas masks and Dr. Maru’s Laboratory; and the ornate London department store set with original costumes and props from the sequence in the movie where Diana, Princess of Themyscira is transformed into Diana Prince.

Special rates for Sri Lanka with India & Beyond

AUSTRALIA’S newest India and Sri Lanka wholesaler Beyond Travel has released an exclusive rate for travel agents and companions on a private seven-night cultural tour of Sri Lanka, now available from $895 per person twin share.

This tour is designed to introduce agents and companions to the many varied delights, from beautiful beaches and bustling port cities, to ancient ruins and fascinating wildlife. Sri Lanka offers an amazing diversity of experiences packed into a tropical island.

Agents can increase their destination knowledge and explore the contrasts on the roundtrip from Colombo. Some highlights include visiting the Cultural Triangle- known as the ancient heart of Sri Lanka – Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Polonnaruwa Ancient city, Dambulla Cave Temples, experience the dedicated work of staff at the reputable Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage, Temple of the Tooth Relic, Royal Botanical Gardens, an evening Jeep Safari at Minneriya National Park, the tea-growing region Nuwara Eliya and activities in the famous Kandy.

Included in the price is six nights hotel accommodation at a mix of four and five star hotels, daily breakfast and dinner, private comprehensive touring in a private air-conditioned vehicle and an English speaking Chauffeur guide/National Guide, entrance fees and all transfers.

Si Holidays spreads that Friday feeling with new Happy Hour deals

Si Holidays, Australia’s largest independent wholesale travel company, will be launching new weekly Happy Hour travel deals.

Starting this Friday (4 August), 10 heavily discounted offers will be sent out to travel agents every Friday at 12noon and will be jam-packed with bonuses and extra value. However, agents need be quick as the selection of deals will only last for one week before the next round of 10 deals is released.

From the beaches of Phuket to the bright lights of Las Vegas, Australia’s largest independent wholesale travel company, Si Holidays, is adding new meaning to the phase ‘it’s Happy Hour somewhere’ with the launch of its first round of 10 Happy Hour deals at 12pm today.

This week’s inaugural Happy Hour deals include:

• Phuket Graceland (Thailand)-$53pp per night in a Deluxe Room (Stay 8 nights and pay for 5, min 8 nights stay required)
• Plant Hollywood, Las Vegas (USA)-$59pp per night in a Hollywood Hip Room (min 2 night stay)
• Castle Inn and Suites, Anaheim (USA)- $79pp per night in a Standard Room (stay 5 night, pay for 4, min 5 nights stay required)
• Peninsula Excelsior Hotel, Singapore-$84 pp per night in a Standard Room (stay 4 nights, pay for 3, min 4 nights stay required)
• The Warwick Fiji, Coral Coast-$89pp per night in a Garden View Room (includes daily breakfast and free non-motorised water sports, min 5 night stay)
• Bali Padma, Legian (Bali)-$131pp per night in a Deluxe Room (Includes breakfast daily, stay 4 nights pay 3, min 4 night stay required)
• Coconuts Beach Club Resort & Spa, Apia (Samoa)-$139pp per night in a Treehouse Suite (includes 8 free cocktail vouchers, daily breakfast, 5 night min stay)
• Hilton Hawaiian Village, Honolulu (Hawaii)-$185pp per night in a Resort View Room (includes free upgrade to partial ocean view room, min 5 night stay)
• Fairmont Waterfront, Vancouver (Canada)-$229pp per night (includes free upgrade to Partial Harbour Room)
• Anantara Kihavah, Baa Atoll (Maldvives)-$1,039pp per night (includes free double room category upgrade, return seaplane transfers, 5 night min stay)

Intrepid’s new North American program is Canadian and cool

Intrepid Travel is launching new trips to Canada for 2018 in response to growing demand for the Great White North, which has seen sales on popular trips increase by more than 150% in the past year.

Winter trips are also on Intrepid’s 2018 hot-list, with three brand new trips into the North American winter added to the new range, including the new 12-day US and Canada Discovery Winter trip which includes the magic of a white Christmas in New York, ice skating in Ottawa and a snowshoe hike in Vermont.

Intrepid’s new North America program now offers more than 34 unique itineraries from Chicago to Calgary including the first dedicated tour of Victoria Island.

Intrepid Travel recently announced that it would double its carbon offsetting on all trips to the United States, in response to President Donald Trump’s withdrawal from the Paris climate agreement. This increased commitment to supporting sustainable tourism in the United States includes the new range of 2018 trips.

Brand USA’s Five Badge Fun

Brand USA Australia today announced a new trade incentive, Five Badge Fun, launched to celebrate the introduction of five new specialist badges on its official training site, the USA Discovery Program.

The USA Discovery Program is an innovative and interactive online training site that provides travel agents the knowledge and skills needed to efficiently book trips to the USA. The training site includes 37 different badges such as regions or experiences showcasing the diversity of the USA traveller experience. The five new specialist badges are:

1. Wyoming Specialist Badge
2. Chicago Specialist Badge
3. The Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel Specialist Badge
4. Illinois Specialist Badge
5. Alamo Specialist Badge

Agents will be competing for a two night Mystery Flights package for two people, which is a short stay travel package to an unknown destination within Australia. The prize includes return economy airfares, two nights at a four star hotel and airport transfers. Mystery Flights depart from Brisbane, Melbourne or Sydney airports and on request from Adelaide, Gold Coast, Newcastle and Canberra.

To qualify, agents will need to head to the USA Discovery Program and complete all of the five new badges to gain an entry. The incentive is only open to travel trade representatives in Australia who are registered users on the Discovery Program. New users must first complete the Regional Expert Badge in order to enter.

The incentive will run for two months, starting Tuesday 1st August and will end on Sunday 1st October, 2017.

Tourism Philippines ‘Trivia’ Roadshows are nearly here!

The Philippine Department of Tourism ‘Trivia Night’ Roadshows are less than two weeks away!  The first event kicks off in Sydney on the 8^th August 2017, followed by Melbourne, Brisbane and Auckland on the 9^th, 10^th and 11^th respectively.  The events will provide agents with the chance to win a free trip to one of the Best Islands in the World, plus tips on selling this incredible, award winning destination.

At each of this year’s roadshow events, a team of up to three travel agents*, will have the opportunity to win a trip to one of the following breathtaking islands: Palawan, Boracay and Cebu.  The lucky agents will be able to enjoy a range of activities on offer including relaxing, swimming, hiking, snorkelling and many more.

A taste of old and new Japan for MTA’s Amanda Erwin

Pictured enjoying the blend of old and new that is Tokyo today, MTA – Mobile Travel Agents’ Member, Amanda Erwin recently visited the ‘land of the rising sun’ as part of an intensive EXO Travel Japan study tour combining stays in both traditional Ryokan-style accommodation and several of the country’s first-class properties.

Encompassing Tokyo, Hakone, Odawara, Ise-Shi and Kyoto, sightseeing opportunities included a Tokyo Street Food Tour with a visit to the world-famous Tsukiji Fish Markets, Mount Fuji, a Lake Ashinoko cruise, a Bullet Train experience and a cycling tour of the Kyoto Peninsula.

Three’s a Charm! TravelManagers Celebrate Continued Cruise Growth

With TravelManagers’ total cruise sales increasing 15% for the first six months January to June this year and following a 22% growth in 2016, it was of little surprise that TravelManagers was awarded Cruiseco’s Top 5 in sales award for 2016 for the third consecutive year.

Earlier this year personal travel managers Luky Wilson, representative for Mount Eliza and Derek Harwood, representative for Forest Hill in Victoria and joined Debra Deane, representative for Port Macquarie in New South Wales, together with the national partnership office operations manager Pru Gallagher, celebrated TravelManagers award win at the Cruiseco awards dinner which culminated the 16th national conference held in Adelaide.

The conference allowed a mix of scheduled business seminars with casual exhibition time allowing delegates to spend time with Cruiseco’s cruise partners, as well as key note speakers, panel discussions and interviews.

TravelManagers’ Executive General Manager Michael Gazal views the Cruiseco win as a forerunner to this year’s performance, highlighting the significant contribution personal travel managers (PTMs) make to the cruise sector – and is confident TravelManagers will continue to increase its cruising sales.

The Travel Corporation’s latest travel deals

Treasures of Italy

 Book your clients with Insight Vacations on 2018 European holidays at 2017 prices and they will continue to save with an additional early payment discount of 10% off when they book and pay in full before 14 December 2017. Guests will save up to $455 per person on the 11-day Treasures of Italy escorted journey from the eternal city of Rome through the Isle of Capri, Florence, Lake Maggiore, up to Venice.

On this trip travellers will gain VIP access into the Vatican Museum and be among the select few to admire the famous Bramante Staircase, a part of the Vatican closed to the general public! Priced from $4,095 per person twin share (including discount) price reflective of departure on 16 July – 27 August 2018 (other departures available, subject to availability). For full terms and conditions visit insightvacations.com or call 1300 727 767.​

 Fly Free to Europe

Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection is offering The Ultimate 2018 Air Offer for guests to Fly Free return to Europe economy class at no cost when they book a 2018 European voyage before 30^thSeptember. Guests of Uniworld can combine this air offer with the 16- day European Jewels river cruise from Amsterdam to Budapest (or reverse).  Allowing guests to discover the full spectrum of European culture, history, art and architecture; passing through The Netherlands, Germany, Austria and Hungary, leaving them with a collection of jewels, memories and new friendships.

Including 14-days of captivating escorted excursions, a 15-night river cruise in a Riverview stateroom onboard the stunning River Duchess, all meals and beverages unlimited and more! Priced from $9,699 pp (including airfare), departing 25 October 2018 (other departures available, price may vary). For more information call 1300 780 231.

Coastal California 

For a limited time Trafalgar is offering flights for $699 return to USA, Canada and Mexico when you book a guided holiday from the 2018 USA and Canada program before 28 August 2017. The NEW 10-day Coastal California with Yosemite National Park guided holiday, will take travellers from Los Angeles through Malibu, Santa Barbara, Monterey, Yosemite National Park ending in San Francisco.

Guests of Trafalgar have the opportunity to take part in an exclusive Be My Guest located in the rolling hills of California’s Central Coast, Paso Robles, where they’ll learn about olive groves and the process of olive oil making before dining on a delectable meal created with local ingredients and olive oil.

Priced $4,795 per person twin share. PLUS fly for $699 return airfare with American Airlines, reflective of departure dates available on 4-11 May 2018(other departures available for alternate price for select flight departure dates). For more information or a further selection of Trafalgar’s authentic, fun and effortless guided holidays visit www.trafalgar.com or call Trafalgar on 1800 002 006(toll-free).*conditions apply.

Solo Traveller

This one’s for the wildlife lovers! Know a solo traveller wanting to explore the “Polar Bear Capital”? Book your clients on selected Adventure World polar bear adventures, including the 6-day Churchill Town & Tundra polar-bear viewing journey and they’ll SAVE up to $1,000 per person as a solo traveller when they book and deposit before 20 August 2017. Travellers will visit the Churchill Eskimo Museum which contains one of Canada’s finest collections of Inuit carvings and artefacts, and take a trip on the Tundra Buggy to explore the Churchill Wildlife Management Area in search of polar bears and other arctic wildlife.

Priced from $7,675 per person (discount included), which includes a return airfare from Winnipeg, 3 nights’ accommodation in Churchill 2 nights’ accommodation in Winnipeg, 2 full day Tundra Buggy tours in Churchill, entrance to Eskimo museum and Parks Canada, half-day dog sledding program, transfers and more! Available for departure on 9, 21, 28, 30 October and 6 November 2017. For more information and full terms and conditions visit Adventure World at www.adventureworld.com call 1300 363 055 *Conditions Apply.

Dalmatian Coast 

Secure your clients a SAVING of up to 15% OFF Busabout’s select 2018 European departures at 2017 prices when they book before 11 September 2017. Travellers can save $160 off per person on the 8-day Croatia One Way Sail. They’ll explore a select few of the Dalmatian coast’s 1,185 dazzling islands, including the secluded bays away from the main tourist spots, choosing to sail from either ‘Split to Dubrovnik’ or ‘Dubrovnik to Split’ for maximum exposure to Croatian life and its people.

Priced from $904 per person twin share (including discount) including your Busabout crew, local Croatian captains onboard the boat, 7 nights’ accommodation onboard, 7 breakfasts and lunches, orientation tours of Dubrovnik and Split, and more! Available for any May, June, September and October 2018 departure To book quote promocode PREVIEW18.  For more information and a range of other European and Asian trips on sale visit http://www.busabout.com/ or call 1300 287 226.

Awaken your senses

 Last chance for your clients to SAVE and awaken their senses in Asia 2017 with Contiki. Book your clients on any 2017 Asia departure with Contiki before 31^st of August 2017 and they will save 10% off their trip! Travellers can save from $391* off the 27-day Big Indochina Adventure, exploring everything Asia has to offer!

Whether they are fishing with locals in Vietnam, being blessed by Monks in Thailand, exploring limestone caves in Laos or pulling up at Cambodia’s Angkor Wat in a tuk-tuk, they’ll have no regrets. Priced at $5,368 *per person (including discount) and available for travel between 5 Aug – 30 December 2017. For more information visit www.contiki.com or phone 1300 266 845. *Conditions Apply.

‘Airffordable’ Tasmania

 Time for your clients to tick Tassie off their bucket list! Guests of AAT Kings can receive a discounted return airfare to Tasmania (departing from Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth or Brisbane) when they book the 10-day Tasmanian Wonders guided holiday. They won’t leave without getting amongst the idyllic scenery or sampling local cheese, wine and delicious fresh picked berries.

This package includes an experienced Travel Director & Driver Guide, quality accommodation, travel in luxury coach, airport transfers, and more! Priced from $3,199 (departing Melbourne) with discounted return airfare, twin share and available on select departures between 1 September 2017 – 31 August 2018 (subject to availability). For more information or to book call 1300 556 100 or visit aatkings.com.

Amsterdam & Voyage of the Midnight Sun

Trafalgar and Creative Cruising have released 33 Land and Sea Explorer Holiday packages. Creative Cruising is making these land and sea combinations seamless and easy for you to book. On the 20-night Amsterdam & Voyage of the Midnight Sun cruise package your clients can receive a bonus of up to US$50 onboard credit per stateroom when they book before 31 August 2017. 

This package includes 1 night accommodation in Amsterdam, a 14 night cruise onboard ms Koningsdam from Amsterdam return sailing all the way up to Norway’s North Cape, main meals and entertainment onboard the cruise and a 5-night Amsterdam Explorer guided holiday with Trafalgar, and more! Priced from $5,989*per person (Interior room). Holiday starts 7 July 2018 *Conditions apply. Please visit www.creativecruising.com.au or phone1300 362 599 for more information.