Hong Kong dubbed as the ‘Shoppers Paradise’ and you can easily see why For decades, Hong Kong has been known the world over as a shopper’s paradise. No matter what you are looking for, you’ll find it in Asia’s World City! From prestigious malls and flagship stores to street market stalls and independent boutiques, Hong Kong is packed full not just with fashion outlets but also jewellery, home ware, trinkets and unique souvenirs. Check out the top five shopping spots in Hong Kong: Causeway Bay: with endless shopping malls, department stores and boutiques, shoppers should dedicate a whole day to really explore what it has to offer.         2. Tsim Sha Tsui: is a giant world bazaar, where Hong Kong’s glittering harbour is met by an alternate sea of stalls, shops, markets and malls.         3. For bargains in jade, silk products, embroideries and wooden handicraft items, head to Cat Street. Amongst antique dealers and art galleries, you can pick up treasures like rare Ming Dynasty furniture, retro posters and vintage glass wear.          4.Hong Kong’s glamorous fashion designers come to the wholesale markets of Cheung Sha Wan Road to sift through […]

Become an Outrigger certified specialist and receive many fantastic benefits! A variety of benefits await those who become a certified Outrigger Expert. This engaging online educational and rewards program provides agents with the tools and training they need to arrange memorable vacations at Outrigger properties for their clients. New learning courses are regularly added to our online course library, each providing Outrigger Expert Agents the opportunity to earn additional rewards points upon successful completion. Benefits included: Complimentary client welcome amenities Exclusive booking bonus cash offers 100 reward points immediately upon certification Cash or gift certificate rewards in $50 increments Enroll at https://agent.outrigger.com/  

Luxury Wellness Programme at ‘Ultimate’ Ananda in the Himalayas with Sunset views Make the journey as splendid as the destination. Arrive by private helicopter from Delhi to reach the 100 acre palatial estate, surrounded by the gracious Sal forests and overlooking the Ganges river valley.  Ananda ­in the Himalayas is where luxury meets wellness. It is a seamless blend of ancient wellness, principles, regal opulence, customised indulgence and spectacular serenity. At Ananda’s multi-award winning spa, a wellness concierge guides guests each day through a specially curated program. Understanding dosha or body type with a detailed personal consultation with the Ayurvedic physician, pampered with blissful spa experiences by expert therapists, indulge in a healthy high-tea at the Viceregal Palace Hall, which once hosted the Maharaja and his guests in the 19th century. Watch the brilliant, vivid hues of the setting sun as they leave an indelible impression – one that might be hard to part with. Bask in what promises to be the perfect balance between the mind and body.  With accommodation provided in an expansive villa with private pool and personal butler and private themed dining is offered at several of Ananda’s exquisite locations – Ultimate Ananda is an experience […]

You are invited to a Thailand Webinar on 24 August – 10am IS THAILAND STILL A COUNTRY OF SMILES? YOU BET IT IS! Come with us on a trip to Thailand, only virtual of course, but you can relax with a cuppa in front of your computer and don’t have to get over the jetlag. We will explore the lively metropolis of Bangkok, see the different sights in Phuket and discover how chilled Koh Samui can be. Thailand has so much to offer but we can only show you three hotels for this webinar.   MODE SATHORN BANGKOK, MANATHAI KOH SAMUI and THE NAI HARN PHUKET. Timetable 10:00 – 10:05: Intro of the presenters and the webinar features 10:05 – 10:25: Emma Arnott from Tourism Authority of Thailand will present to you the destination 10:25 – 10:45: Mode Sathorn, Bangkok, Manathai Koh Samui and the THE NAI HARN, Phuket presented by May Kamya 10:45 – 11:00: Q&A: We will answer all your questions 11:00: End of the Webinar To register please https://easternfavourites.clickmeeting.com/thailand-webinar-uk/register

DOT cheers Palawan as World’s best island of 2017 Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Wanda Tulfo-Teo lauded Palawan for being chosen by the prestigious Travel + Leisure magazine as the World’s Best Island for two consecutive years now.  “We are truly proud of our country’s Last Frontier for the accolades gained and we enjoin the community, industry and local government leaders to continue preserving this valuable travel jewel for our future guardians and visitors to enjoy,” Teo said. The Philippine’s prime paradise was initially picked No.1 island in Asia, and then adjudged No. 1 worldwide, besting the likes of Santorini, Maui, Galapagos Islands and the Seychelles. Palawan first took the top spot in 2013, based on the results of an annual survey where T+L readers rated their tourism experiences in 86 different categories. Palawan was noted for its “unspoiled, sugar-white beaches”; its world-class scuba diving sites where divers are treated to fish-filled reefs in Bacuit Bay to World War II shipwrecks; and for the Puerto Princesa Underground River, one of the globe’s longest subterranean rivers and a UNESCO-inscribed World Heritage site. Also garnering attention are the “dramatic” limestone formations rising from the turquoise waters of El Nido; the “warm and […]

100% Pure New Zealand Specialist Programme Tourism New Zealand have launched their new 100% Pure New Zealand Programme, which comes complete with new features such as a tiered system and free agent listings on newzealand.com. Make sure your listing is complete and up-to-date so you can increase your visibility with consumers and benefit from the traffic to the Tourism New Zealand consumer website. To find out more about the new programme and sign up today visit; http://traveltrade.newzealand.com/en/training/nz-specialist-programme/

Dusit International to manage new five-star resort in the Philippines Thailand-based, global hospitality company Dusit International has signed a hotel management agreement with Robinsons Land Corporation (RLC), one of the Philippines’ leading real estate companies, to operate the Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu, a five-star resort situated on the northern peninsula of Mactan island.  This resort is slated to open in the fourth quarter of 2018. Positioned to meet the needs of leisure and business travellers alike, the new beachfront resort will comprise 271 well-appointed guest rooms divided between three buildings adjacent to RLC’s AmiSa private residences. Facilities will include a luxury spa, a fully-equipped fitness centre, a lobby lounge, three restaurants with al fresco and private dining, a large infinity pool, and over 1,200 sq m of meeting space. Dusit’s signature gracious hospitality inspired by authentic Thai values will drive the service experience. Mactan island is located a few kilometres from Cebu in the Central Visayas region and is known for its luxury tourism industry. Surrounded by coral, the island offers excellent diving and snorkelling experiences, has a vibrant sailing community, and is also home to the only aquarium attraction in the Visayas. Mactan island is served by Mactan-Cebu International […]

Witness Bali’s wealth of performing arts at the Bali Arts Festival Bali Arts Festival is a month long festival consists of cultural performances, handicraft exhibitions and many more arts-related activities. This annual festival usually starts on the second Saturday of June and based at the Taman Werdhi Budaya Arts Centre in Denpasar. It is the perfect moment to witness Bali’s wealth of performing arts together with various cultural highlights from other islands in Indonesia. Through this special annual event, it is hoped that the true authentic wisdom and philosophy of the people of Bali will not only be preserved but will also grow and spread to other parts of the world.

Macao Grand Prix, four-day adrenaline-fuelled event set to take place 16 to 19 November. The Macau Grand Prix, the most internationally prestigious event in Macao’s sporting calendar, takes place from 16th to 19th November 2017. Now in its sixth decade the four-day adrenaline-fuelled event, sees the world’s best motorcycle, WTCC and Formula 3 racers compete for the coveted titles. Considered one of the world’s most challenging street circuits due to its narrow lanes and limited number of overtaking opportunities, the 6.2km long Guia Circuit always delivers a great show. Watch and share this year’s promotional video here. For more information on Macao: www.macaotourism.gov.mo

One month to go until the 4th Fiji International tournament With just one month to go until the 4th Fiji International tournament, final preparations are being made for the players and visitors’ arrival.  Taking place from 17th – 20th August at the newly renovated Natadola Bay Championship Golf Course – and with a minimum purse prize of FJD2.3million, it is sure to be a fantastic event. The InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa is the official accommodation provider to the international multimillion dollar event.  With golf being part of Fiji’s niche tourism industry, and the event set to be broadcast to millions of viewers globally, organisers are encouraging the people of Fiji to support the nation’s biggest premium sporting event.  Professionals confirmed to compete include seasoned players such as Aron Price, Adam Blyth, Anthony Houston and Fiji’s own three time major champion and course designer Vijay Singh.  For further information on the Fiji International visit www.fijiinternational.com.

Outrigger Konotta Maldives Resorts introduces all inclusive rates for UK wholesale travel agents. The Outrigger Konotta Maldives Resort has introduced all-inclusive rates for UK wholesale travel agents. The UK is the first market in which the property has offered all-inclusive rates. The rates are effective immediately for stays up to 31 March 2018. The 53 pool villas offer the largest average villa sizes in the Maldives. The all-inclusive lead-in rates with (for example) tour operator Gold Medal for a seven-night stay based on two people start from £2689 per person for the 211m2 Beach Pool Villa and £3365 per person for an Overwater Villa with private pool. Prices include domestic transfers but exclude international flights. “We believe our all-inclusive plan now positions the Outrigger Konotta Maldives Resort as a great value holiday option in paradise that will give guests peace of mind so they can relax to the max,” says the property’s General Manager, John Allanson. All-Inclusive Details The all-inclusive option at the Outrigger Konotta Maldives Resort includes three meals a day, a selection of different brands of alcohol in all restaurants and bars, a dine-around option and in-villa dining. In the villas the mini bar with beer and soft […]

Port Moresby Hotel Update Port Moresby, capital of Papua New Guinea, has an excellent selection of Hotels and as all flights operate through Moresby a stopover is inevitable. The Stanley Hotel – Price range GBP 185 – 205.  The recent addition of a Day Spa Facility and with the added bonus that the hotel connects to Port Moresby’s  integrated shopping, restaurant and entertainment complex, makes this a popular choice. See: www.thestanleypng.com Holiday Inn Express – Price range GBP 142 – 146.  The hotel – set in the middle of 12 acres of landscaped gardens – offers a variety of recreational facilities ensuring a comfortable and activity filled stay. See: www.ihg.com/holidayinnexpress/hotels/us/en/port-moresby/pomex/hoteldetail Lamana Hotel – Price range GBP 122 – 253.   Following major renovations, the hotel now has superior dining and entertainment, plus a ten-pin-bowling alley. See: www.lamanahotel.com.pg Other Port Moresby hotels include the Airways Hotel, first choice for visiting Royal Families and Heads of State, Ela Beach Hotel (Apartment Wing) and The Gateway Hotel. www.papuanewguinea.travel  

Australia’s premier luxury adventure-cruise ship True North Celebrates 30 Years Australia’s premier luxury adventure-cruise ship True North has sailed into 30 years of continuous operations. The now revered adventure-cruise operator first cruised Western Australia’s remote Kimberley coast during 1987 when fishing type charters commenced along a coastline that was and still is largely inaccessible from land under the name North Star Cruises Australia. Today True North offers luxury adventure cruises in the Kimberley, Papua New Guinea and around the Australian coastline.  Whilst there have been significant developments of the company over the last 30 years, the one thing that has not changed is the guest experience, life on-board is very different to a big ship environment and traditional expedition cruises. True North have an unrelenting focus on giving the guest maximum opportunity to truly experience the destination.  Featuring a shallow draft that allows the True North to go where bigger ships cannot, an exceptionally high crew to guest ratio of 22:36, six dedicated expedition boats and a ship’s helicopter, ship’s biologist and a team of naturalists – there are few other examples of craft so keenly configured for discovery and adventure. True North’s itineraries never depart from theme – sea days are […]

Tourism Australia’s new youth training module for Aussie Specialists Tourism Australia has released a new special interest training module on youth experiences for the Aussie Specialist Program to educate frontline travel sellers on what makes Australia a must-see destination for the younger generation. The training module also provides a guide to creating inspiring itineraries with the latest key highlights, accommodation, local immersion activities and nightlife across the country. The online training module is available in English with a range of supporting fact sheets on each State and Territory plus the Working Holiday Maker Program.

Complete the Amazing Thailand Online Training Programme Now By completing the Amazing Thailand Online Training Programme, you will have the expertise and confidence to convert enquiries into bookings. With a 65% repeat visitor rate, clients you send to Thailand will most likely come back to you to book their next holiday. Not only will you increase your sales, you will also go into the draw to win the monthly prize!  A lucky agent will win at least 7 nights accommodation in a luxury hotel in Thailand every month. So go to www.training.tourismthailand.co.uk to become a Thailand Expert!

ICS Cultural Connections Protecting and promoting the cultural traditions of our destinations is one of our key priorities.  We aim to do our part to keep these practices alive and flourishing by supporting local communities and artisans in our experiences.  Your clients can participate in responsible, community-based excursions like “Bagan Community Connection” where you can chat with Burmese villagers and – if you have a chance – watch them collecting the ‘toddy juice’ outside the village.  In Vietnam, “Hidden Secrets of the Cham Culture” will let you meet a Cham specialist and talk in-depth about Cham’s history.  You can also visit one of the families who preserve the art of weaving brocade with ancestral techniques. “Bamboo Explorer” is an interactive tour where your clients can learn to cook, create and craft with bamboo in Luang Prabang, Laos. Assist the chef cooking up delicious bamboo dishes, and try your hand at weaving a souvenir bamboo mat.  “Local Life Discovery” bears witness the daily life of the river people at close range as you cruise along the Sangker River in Cambodia.  Floating villages and an ancient pagoda reveal how life revolves around the water, while you cross the great freshwater Tonle Sap […]

Outrigger Mauritius Beach Resort Reveals its Crystal Marquee for MICE & Wedding Sectors Outrigger Mauritius Beach Resort has unveiled Crystal, a unique meeting space in the south of the island. This new concept opens opportunities for the resort in the events and MICE sector, from meetings and conferences to exceptional gala dinners and weddings. Crystal is a fully air-conditioned transparent marquee. It measures 33 x 17.5 metres, can seat up to 250 people in banquet style and sits on a rooftop area of the hotel giving a wonderful view of the Bel Ombre coast. The resort setting is ideal for events: 181 sea-facing rooms offer a breath-taking beachfront location alongside the turquoise lagoons of the Indian Ocean. Nestled in the nature reserve of Bel Ombre, the property is only 45 minutes from the airport, A permanent structure, Crystal can be adapted for many needs. It can be used as a classic conference venue with pitch-dark option, or semi-transparent with ocean views, both incorporating the latest audio-visual technology. “Crystal is unique in Mauritius and repositions the Outrigger as a full-on MICE destination for events, incentive meetings, weddings and banquets,” says Cyrille Carmona, Deputy General Manager of the resort. “With Crystal, the […]

The Samaya Seminyak Supporting World Turtle Day In the world, there are seven sea turtle species, six of them live in Indonesia. They are Green Turtle (Chelonia mydas), Hawksbill Turtle (Eretmochelys imbricate), Olive Ridley (Lepidochelys olivacea), Leatherback Sea Turtle (Dermochelys coriacea), Flatback Sea Turtle (Natator depressus), and Loggerhead Sea Turtle (Caretta caretta). Nowadays, some species of turtles and tortoises are suffering and almost on the edge of extinction due to environmental hazards and issues with hunting and harvesting of their eggs. World Turtle Day was created by the American Tortoise Rescue (ATR) in 2000 and it is celebrated across the world every May 23rd. Its purpose is to bring attention to, and increase knowledge of and respect for turtles and tortoises and encourage human action to help them survive and thrive. Turtle Day is celebrated worldwide in a variety of ways. The Samaya Seminyak was very excited in taking a part of this celebration by providing a little turtle souvenir for all of their in house guests. These souvenirs hopefully can be useful in promoting the campaign of turtles protection.

How 3 Sisters Trekking’s work has saved Maha Laxmi’s life Maha Laxmi is the second child of her parents out of six. She got married when she was 15 and was studying in class nine. Here begins her story; I can’t remember how I got married maybe it’s because I was too young to feel that I was getting married or maybe I was just driven away by that boy. When I began to realize that I was not in my home with my family members, I began to cry a lot. I wasn’t able to go back to my house because I was married and for the sake of my parents’ prestige. I decided to stay with him no matter what I should face. Because of my crazy and irresponsible husband I was having a hard time. One and a half years’ later I gave birth to a baby boy. All of my in-laws were happy with my baby boy. The days and months were passing by but the baby’ weight was remaining the same. A local doctor said he is malnourished and admitted him to Nepalgunj hospital, which is in a big city. I went to Nepalgunj for my […]

Introducing Diethelm Travel’s New Webinar Series Diethelm are bringing Asia to you! Starting this May, they’ll be opening up their world with a brand new webinar series completely complimentary to clients. Once a month, they’ll go live focusing on each of the 12 countries they operate in sharing details about the Diethelm Travel ethos, important travel information for each destination, introducing unique experiences – like those from their Go Local, Family Travel and Diethelm Moments product lines – and more. Each session will run for one hour and be hosted by senior management, such as our Product Managers and Managing Directors, of the highlighted destination providing clients with a wealth of information, insight and tips for best positioning Diethelm destinations and experiences to travellers. In each session, you can expect to learn more about: Leading products available in the spotlighted country or countries, including best-selling packages, off the beaten track experiences and new programmes Tips on how to better position key packages and destinations to help you become an expert at what you sell Local insight for popular destinations Country overviews explaining the geography, climate, history, culture and more Do’s and Don’ts of the country to better benefit your guests […]

The Amazing Thailand Road Show – Edinburgh and Newcastle Thailand Tourism are bringing together some of our finest hotels, airlines, destination management companies and tour operators for a series of unmissable evenings in the UK, including Edinburgh on 12th September and Newcastle on 13th September. These entertaining nights will include ‘workshop style’ speed dating, with tasty Thai food, chilled beer, wine and soft drinks and a free prize draw to win a Fam trip to Thailand. Spaces are limited. To register email the team: marketing@tourismthailand.co.uk Want to learn more about Thailand? Go to http://training.tourismthailand.co.uk/

Trekking PNG Style Now celebrating it’s 75th Anniversary, steeped in WW2 history, the Kokoda Trail is PNG’s most famous trek. PNG Trekking Adventures has been organising activity holidays since the early 90’s and are dedicated to ensuring a superb experience whilst actively supporting sustainable tourism. The full Kokoda trek is only recommended for those with a high level of fitness, capable of walking a demanding six or seven miles a day.  However, it is possible to get the Kokoda experience with the ‘Kokoda Taster’. This, as with the full trek, is operated by Trekking Adventurers PNG staff, who guide and help the travellers.  They carry guitars and ukuleles’ and at night everyone is invited to sit around the campfire and listens to traditional music. Kokoda trekking offers a fantastic opportunity for visitors to be immersed in the culture, whilst increasing physical and mental agility. For more information: www.pngtrekkingadventures.com www.papuanewguinea.travel  

London embraces ‘PyeongChang2018 Winter Olympic Games’ road show fever Korea Tourism Organization in collaboration with the PyeongChang2018 Winter Olympic Committee brought the PyeongChang2018 Winter Games Road Show to the palatial surroundings of the Four Seasons Hotel London. In the presence of H.E. Mr. Joonkook Hwang, the Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to the UK, the CEO of Korea Tourism Mr. Chang Soo Jung and Mr. Hyung Koo Yeo, secretary General of the PyeongChang2018 Organising Committee, and a host of guests joined the countdown to the games. A press conference and speeches delivered a timely update about PyeongChang2018 progress. The evening gave a snap-shot of next year’s Winter Olympic Games, in terms of venues and infrastructure, the regional tourism potential of the Gangwondo region and the legacy this event will provide in the form the new rail connection between Seoul and the PyeongChang cluster. It was also the chance to introduce and connect the official Authorised Ticket Seller (ATR) ‘Sports Travel & Hospitality Group’ (STH) to the travel trade and media here in the UK. STH will soon launch Team GB Live, a platform developed in partnership with Team GB to enable those wishing to book ticket inclusive travel packages […]

Dine under the stars at Outrigger, Koh Samui Outrigger Koh Samui is offering guests the opportunity to “Dine Under the Stars”. For approximately £50 per couple, guests can have a magical experience of an a la carte meal, a canopy set up with white drape and candlelight on the beach.  

Dusit International set to open hotel on Vietnam’s emerging island destination Phu Quoc Thailand-based global hospitality company Dusit International will make its Vietnam debut this December with the opening of the DusitPrincess Moonrise Beach Resort on the country’s largest island, Phu Quoc. The result of a long-term franchising arrangement with Linh Chi Limited Company, the new hotel will comprise 108 rooms in a lush location overlooking popular Bai Truong beach on the island’s west coast, only eight minutes’ drive from Phu Quoc International Airport. Elegantly and stylishly designed, the rooms will range from 32 sq. m Deluxe rooms to 56 sq. m Grand Suites, all providing sea views, while facilities will include an all-day-dining restaurant, a spa, an outdoor pool, a lounge and pool bar, a fully-equipped conference room, and a kids’ zone. Phu Quoc, also known as Pearl Island, is located in the south of Vietnam in the Gulf of Thailand. An up-and-coming tourist destination, the island is known for its long, sweeping beaches, rich coral reefs, and dense, tropical jungle. Popular attractions include Phu Quoc National Park, a Unesco Biosphere Reserve; and Dinh Cau Temple, built in 1937 to honour Thien Hau, the Goddess of the Sea. Phu […]

Streets, Eats and Tasty Treats with ICS Travel Group Our foodie experiences uncover the rich culinary heritage of our destinations and give you a taste of local traditions through cooking classes in private homes, visits to bustling wet/dry markets and insider access to the best of Asia’s famous Street food. From cooking Khmer dishes in the Cambodian countryside around Siem Reap, to having a home cooked lunch with a local family in Pindaya, or feast on Javanese cuisine on the streets of Yogyakarta. Experiencing the local flavours and traditions of a destination is part of the reason for going, and these three merely scratch the surface of what we have to offer. Visit https://icstravelgroup.com/culinary/ for more ideas and inspirations.

How would you like to witness fire walking at Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort? How far would you walk on fire? The art of fire walking is a cultural tradition passed down through generations of islanders in Fiji. It takes mental, physical, and emotional training to be a professional of this historic performance. That is not to say that you might be one adventure away from witnessing this Signature Experience in person. To understand the practice, one must first learn the legend that began five hundred years ago. On the Fijian Bega Island, where the Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort has built a haven, there lived an old man who would tell epic stories to the eager youth of the island in return for gifts. One young man, Tunaiviqalita, yearned to hear these stories, so he made a deal with this old man. Tunaiviqalita promised to bring the elder a gift of delicious, fresh eel. The renowned storyteller agreed, and the young man set out on his newfound quest. As he searched in the stream near his village, he soon found a large rock, under which he would usually find the delicacy he was seeking. He slipped his hand inside a crack under the rock, […]

Pacific Destinations launch Quick Quote – a simplified quoting platform! Pacific Destinations new Quick Quote platform is designed to make producing an FIT quote as simple as possible. When you enter your criteria, Quick Quote will draw from over 250 FIT packages to give you an itinerary and price in no time at all. Suitable for 1-4 passengers, either self-drive or Seat in Coach, our packages are the fastest and easiest way to produce an FIT quote. We have purpose built a range of packages to suit a wide variety of interests, however if our package is not exactly what you client wants, you can customise it further to make it perfect for them. Discover how Pacific Destinations are inspiring a new generation with fresh and immersive itineraries as well as offering the old favourites. For more details, please contact Bryan Arnicar at Pacific Destinations on bryan@pdnz.co.nz or call 07503166546.  

Kurtz-Ahlers announces representation of The Brando, French Polynesia The team at Kurtz-Ahlers is delighted to announce their latest representation partnership with The Brando. Combining luxury and environmental sustainability to create one of the finest eco-friendly resorts in the world, The Brando is located on the Tetiaroa atoll.  Also known as Marlon Brando’s private island, this resort is meant to carry out his vision and his legacy. It is 100% energy independent and supports a number of research and conservation initiatives. The Brando Resort features 35 private villas located along the coast of Motu Onetahi, set back from the beach for maximum privacy. Each one has been carefully designed with comfortable furnishings and deluxe amenities including a private pool. The resort offers two gourmet restaurants, two hotel bars, a luxurious overwater spa, and an organic fruit orchard and vegetable garden. To find out more please visit www.thebrando.com or contact the team at Kurtz-Ahlers via email jo@kurtzahlers.com  

Hurry – Applications for Tourism Australia’s mega famil closing soon There’s nothing like experiencing a destination first hand, which is why Tourism Australia is hosting its mega famil Corroboree West 2017 (CW17). 300 Aussie Specialists will get the chance to engage in specialised training and workshops, experience Australian tourism products and take part in exciting familiarisation trips around the country.   Fly to Australia with airline partner Singapore Airlines. Your first stop is the Gold Coast where you will participate in workshops, training events and networking functions with over 100 Australian sellers. Then embark on one of 10 incredible famils throughout Queensland and across the country – you are guaranteed to come home convinced there’s nothing like Australia. Want to immerse in the beach lifestyle, abundant nature and dynamic culture of the Gold Coast, improve your destination and product knowledge and get to know Australia like a local? Qualify as an Aussie Specialist now by completing our free online training programme at www.aussiespecialist.com and apply for your chance to attend Corroboree West 2017. Hurry – applications close 28 April 2017. For more information, please visit www.aussiespecialist.com/cw17uk

Holy Visit of The Samaya Seminyak Team to Besakih Temple Besakih temple is the biggest and holiest temple of Hindu religion in Bali. The Besakih’s name comes from the word of Basuki, where in Sanskrit Basuki means congratulation. In mythology of Samudramanthana, Basuki is a dragon that twined the Mount Mandara. This biggest temple in Bali is located in Besakih Village, Rendang Sub-district, Karangasem District and it has spectacular views over the surrounding valleys and is about a thousand years old. Besakih temple actually is a large complex of of 23 separate but related temples where the largest and most important temple is Penataran Agung temple. Every 10th Full Moon, the entire compound of Besakih celebrates the visit of the gods, with an enormous throng of visiting pilgrims. For this year, it fell on April 11th to May 2nd. On April 20th and 21st, The Samaya Seminyak held holly visit to Besakih temple. Around 40 people from management team and staffs participated in this holy visit. Not only to Besakih temple, the team also visited and prayed at Batur temple which is only around 30 minutes away. For more information please click here

Chance to win with the Macao Specialist training programme! To celebrate a refresh of the Macao Specialist training programme, agents who register and successfully complete at least one of the four modules by April 30 will automatically go into a prize draw for a chance to win one of 20 pairs of Portuguese wine, with all existing Macao Specialists also included. Reflecting Macao’s Portuguese-Chinese heritage, each prize will consist of a bottle of white and a bottle of tinto Marques de Borba wine from Portugal’s Alentejo region. For more information please click here

All the latest news from Fiji – International Day of Happiness, Natadola Bay Championship Golf Course and Fiji Airlines heading to Adelaide  It is International Day of Happiness this week (Monday 20th March) which is a United Nations initiative introduced in 2011 that recognises ‘the pursuit of happiness as a fundamental human goal’.  As the only nation in the world to be an accredited partner, Tourism Fiji will be sharing stories via social media channels to a global audience about what makes Fiji such a happy place.  A competition has also been running during this period and a dedicated microsite where users can vote on Fijian experiences that they feel best represent ‘where happiness finds you’. Matt Stoeckel, CEO of Tourism Fiji says: “Fiji is the place where happiness finds you and the hospitality extended its visitors is world renown. Tourism Fiji recognizes the synergies with the International Day of Happiness and through this partnership will showcase to the rest of the world what makes Fiji such a happy place.” Hole in One The Ministry of Industry, Trade and Tourism, together with the PGA of Australia have announced the dates for the 2017 Fiji International as 17th – 20th August 2017 […]

Traditional festival meets contemporary celebration at the 2017 Hong Kong Dragon Boat Carnival The annual Hong Kong Dragon Boat Carnival will return this year from 2-4 June 2017. Jointly organised by the Hong Kong Tourism Board and Hong Kong China Dragon Boat Association, the much anticipated event will see some 3,500 athletes from 100 local teams take part, as well as international teams from 15 countries and regions including the UK. The Dragon Boat Carnival will be held at Victoria Harbour and along Central Harbourfront and in true Hong Kong style, an ancient Chinese festival has become one of the world’s greatest parties! The event will feature four exciting elements: 1. Renowned Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Races 2. San Miguel BeerFest offering visitors complimentary beer, entertainment and live music performances 3. Food Trucks Gala featuring an array of mouth-watering treats from some of the sixteen food trucks that were recently introduced in Hong Kong, as part of an initiative designed to help a new wave of start up chefs in Asia. 4. Coveted 20th Anniversary Trophy in celebration of the 20th anniversary of the establishment of Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. Dragon boat teams from each of the 18 […]

Experience the semi submarine in the Maldives with Outrigger Konotta Maldives Resort The upper part of the semi submarine remains above the sea surface at all times, when you enter it, you will step down into the underwater hull, below the sea level and, through large windows you’ll enjoy spectacular views of the underwater ecosystem of the barrier reef. In the sem i submarine you feel like you are actually diving. The day-light tour explores our beautiful house reef with its marine life: colourful fishes and, if you are lucky, you can see also turtles and sharks. During the South West Monsoon the visibility is fantastic and you feel really to be there, into the water. In the other monsoon, the presence of plankton will reduce the visibility but offers many nutrients and we have plenty of fish around the island. During the night tour you get the chance to experience a real night show, completely different from the daytime. On the reef, fishes camouflage themselves reducing the brightness of their colour, assuming the colour of the barrier reef. With our fluo-light you have the possibility to observe sea creatures with fluorescent colours, usually invisible to the naked eye. This marvel of nature is based on the property of some marine […]

Oscar Lopera will join Diethelm Travel to drive product development across the company Diethelm Travel Group (DTG), an award-winning inbound tour operator servicing Asia, has announced that Oscar Lopera will assume the position of Group Product & Contracting Director beginning on 06 March 2017. He will be responsible for managing the company’s overarching product development and contracting strategy working closely with Diethelm Travel’s 12 regional product managers and directors to ensure all products meet Diethelm Travel’s high standard of quality while also creating unique and innovative offerings to add to the company’s portfolio. Originally from the U.K., Lopera will join the company at the Diethelm Travel headquarters in Bangkok. With more than 15 years working in the industry, including positions in both the mainstream and luxury sectors with operators such as Western & Oriental and Aspire Holidays, Lopera brings a wealth of experience in all aspects of the business, from commercial and marketing to product development and contracting. He was most recently a Senior Purchasing Manager for Dnata Travel overseeing a team responsible for procuring Asia Pacific product remit on behalf of the Dnata Travel portfolio, which included brands such as Emirates Holidays, Dnata Travel as well as the former Gold Medal […]

New Qantas safety video to show best of Australia Qantas has unveiled a new inflight safety video featuring some of Australia’s most stunning landscapes and locations. The new film is an evolution of the national carrier’s 2016 safety video, which had more than 90 million views across Qantas’ in-flight and social media platforms. The 2017 production features everyday Australians in unique destinations across every state and territory, ranging from the Victorian ski fields to sand surfing at Queensland’s Moreton Island. It also features several cameo appearances, including a Bangarra dance performance overlooking Botany Bay, the crew from “Wild Oats XI” showing Sydney Harbour in all its glory, and designer Daniel Avakian on a Melbourne fashion runway. Qantas will be using content from the video to promote the destinations it showcases for Australia’s key tourism markets. Qantas CEO Alan Joyce said the goal was to make the safety video engaging as well as informative. “What we’ve found is that it’s a lot easier to grab people’s attention with something that’s interesting to watch,” Mr Joyce said. “We know the combination of beautiful landscapes and laid-back Aussie charm really cuts through. It’s also why this video doubles as a perfect tourism ad. “Finding […]

Amazing Thailand Road Shows 2017 Edinburgh – 12th September Newcastle – 13th September Thailand Tourism are bringing together some of their finest hotels, airlines and destination management companies for a series of unmissable evenings in the UK, including Edinburgh on 12th September and Newcastle on the 13th September. These entertaining nights will include ‘workshop style’ speed dating, with tasty Thai food, chilled beer, wine and soft drinks and a free prize draw to win a Fam trip to Thailand. Spaces are limited. To register please click here

Philippine Airlines and The Philippine Department of Tourism London to Host Largest Ever Familiarisation Trip for UK Agents to Multiple Destinations in the Country This March Philippine Airlines (PAL) and the Philippine Department of Tourism London (PDOT) are to host a ‘Philippines MEGAFAM’ for agents to key destinations throughout the archipelago. The week-long familiarisation trip will be the first of its kind at this scale, with a selection of almost 50 travel agents ranging from large consolidators, OTAs and dive specialists to luxury leisure boutique agencies. Attendees will travel on PAL’s regular scheduled daily flight from London Heathrow, arriving in Manila on March 27th ahead of a tour of the capital, taking in the Spanish colonial era walled city of Intramuros, followed by a business-to-business networking session to meet with the local tourism industry with a welcome dinner in the evening. The group will then split into four, with the first itinerary going to Boracay and Cebu, the second to Cebu and Bohol, the third to Puerto Princessa and El Nido with the last group visiting Dumaguete and Puerto Galera for diving. Each trip will be accompanied by representatives from PAL and the PDOT. David Cochrane, Country Manager for PAL […]

Philippine Airlines (PAL) unveils first-ever nationwide crowdsourced Inflight Safety Video Starting this year, Philippine Airlines will be showing the Heart of the Nation Inflight Safety Video promoting the importance of safety as it brings passengers to different destinations all over the Philippines and the world. PAL’s inflight safety video, which is in line with the company’s brand equity “The Heart of the Filipino”, was co-developed with McCann Worldgroup Philippines, Inc.with the support of the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) and the Department of Tourism (DOT). A first-of-its-kind in the world, the nationwide crowdsourced inflight safety video was inspired by two unique Filipino traits – being “maaruga” (caring) and the spirit of “bayanihan”(unity/cooperation). The  production, which kicked off in Legazpi and continued in Cebu, Boracay, Davao, Coron, Laoag, Bohol, Cagayan De Oro and Manila, entailed auditions in the nine Philippine destinations. Filipinos from these nine provinces were invited to audition and demonstrate the latest safety guidelines for PAL’ safety video. “Last year, Philippine Airlines celebrated its 75th Anniversary with a renewed mission and vision of becoming a 5-star full-service airline by 2020. As more and more people fall in love with flying, we recognize the responsibility to provide our passengers a level of care […]

Destination Asia Launch 2017 Experiences Calendar Destination Asia has produced a comprehensive 2017 events calendar complete with celebrations, events and weather expectations to show how rich and diversified Asia can be month by month – and that it’s possible to travel in Asia all year round! (Open the Calendar) No matter the month there is always an adventure waiting, stunning landscapes to admire, a changing of the season that brings with it new and unforgettable opportunities. At Destination Asia we believe there is no low season in Asia. When it rains the waterfalls become blissful sanctuaries, river levels rise to provide exceptional kayaking, floating villages breathe a new lease of life, grasslands turn vivid green and rice grows ubiquitously while rates for accommodation are at their lowest. Cold weather in Northern Asia means winter sports, skiing, snowboarding, ice festivals. And if that isn’t your thing, don’t worry – there are hot and sunny destinations in Asia every month of the year. (Open the experiences calendar)  

Unmissable evenings with Tourism Thailand Thailand Tourism are bringing together some of our finest hotels, airlines, destination management companies and tour operators for a series of unmissable evenings in the UK and Ireland. These entertaining nights will include ‘workshop style’ speed dating, with tasty Thai food, chilled beer, wine and soft drinks, plus relaxing Thai massages and a free prize draw to win a Fam trip to Thailand. Edinburgh – 12 September Newcaslte – 13 September Spaces are limited. To register email: marketing@tourismthailand.co.uk

Birds of Paradise: The Ultimate Quest BBC 2 In 2004 BBC Security Correspondent Frank Gardner was shot and left for dead following an al-Qaeda ambush in Saudi Arabia. While he lay in hospital, during a long and painful recovery, he thought of all the opportunities he’d missed, particularly his ambition, as a confirmed birdwatcher, to go to Papua New Guinea and see the elusive birds of paradise. Last year Gardner fulfilled this ambition; despite using a wheelchair and with typical determination he embarked on a three-week expedition. The B.B.C. had commissioned a two part series to film the journey. Frank’s travelling companion was veteran explorer Benedict Allen, who had spent months living in PNG in his 20’s – and was welcomed back by the villagers as a son. Frank and Benedict’s adventures make fascinating viewing giving a unique and touching insight into the people and landscapes of Papua New Guinea. www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b08dxr8d via @bbciplayer www.papuanewguinea.travel    

9 Day Southern Sojourn – SIC Tour Short on time yet want to see the very best of New Zealand. This seat in coach tour offered by Pacific Destinations is for you. Spend 9 days discovering New Zealand’s beautiful South Island. You will start your trip off in beautiful Christchurch which retains something of the English nature of its origins – the willow and oak-lined River Avon and clustered medieval stone buildings. Making your way down to the magnificent scenery of Franz Josef and onto Queenstown: set alongside the shores of Lake Wakatipu, under the gaze of the Remarkables Ranges. See the contrast of smooth glacier rounded hills, and jagged mountain summits that reach high above the ancient ice floor. This tour continues to Dunedin known for the Albatross and Penguin colonies plus many species of New Zealand wildlife before finishing back in Christchurch. For more details on this and many other seat in coach tours throughout New Zealand and Australia please contact Bryan at Pacific Destinations – bryan@pdnz.co.nz  

There’s more to Indonesia than Bali- check out what else this beautiful region has to offer! Bali remains one of the most popular attractions in Asia, with nightlife, restaurants and plenty to see and do.  But that only scratches the surface of what this glorious region offers. For example, you could enjoy a full day off the tourist trail on Nusa Penida, a neighboring island of Bali. Blessed with stunning natural beauty, including beautiful beaches and cascading waterfalls, the island is also known for its religious sites, and Hindu Balinese regularly visit the island for praying. The island can be reached by boat crossing the Badung strait for about 45 minutes. Click here for more information. Or instead why not take a trip to Jimbaran Beach, one of the best in Bali for swimming before boarding the Dedari boat for a cruise through the bay, taking in the famous cliff hanging temple at Uluwatu. Click here for more information For the more adventurously minded, a four night tour to West Sumba, one of the Lesser Sunda Islands in the province of East Nusa Tenggara will provide the perfect contrast to the life and bustle of the Bali everyone knows. Read more […]

Corroboree West 2017 – join us in Australia this autumn! There’s nothing like experiencing Australia first-hand – it’s the key to selling this amazing destination effectively to your clients. We realise the importance and are excited about our mega-famil Corroboree West 2017 (CW17) which will take place in October 2017. As we prepare to open applications next month, you will find more information appearing on the Aussie Specialist website, including a video of the last Corroboree in Adelaide. Give yourself a head start by completing your training (if you haven’t already) and all STO modules as preference will be given to Aussie Specialists who have completed all STO modules. We will notify all Aussie Specialists when applications open, so look out for our newsletter or check the Aussie Specialist website for more information.  

Malamala Beach Club to open mid-2017 in Fiji Welcome to  Malamala Beach Club – Fiji, Fiji’s newest day-activity, slated to open mid-2017, is just 30 minutes from Port Denarau Marina, Fiji. The completely refurbished beach club will offer exclusive transfer services,  a-la-carte dining option, local and international beverage selection as well as one of Fiji’s largest infinity pools with easy access to the crystal blue waters of the pacific ocean.

Celebrate Valentine’s Day at Outrigger Phuket The Outrigger Phuket has put together an unforgettable Valantine’s day dinner under the stars at the beachfront.  Chef Roberto Conrad has created a romantic five-course menu at  Edgewater Restaurant.  THB 6,500++ for five courses per couple including a glass of sparkling wine and red rose for a lady.

Macao’s Chinese New Year Celebrations Macao is getting ready to usher in the Year of the Rooster with a range of exciting and colourful celebrations including parades and firework displays. Chinese New Year (28 – 30 January) is one of the most important festivals in Macao’s calendar, which is filled with unmissable festivals and events in 2017. Highlights include the Feast of the Drunken Dragon (3 May), 29th Macao International Fireworks Display Contest (2 September – 1 October) and the 64th Macau Grand Prix (16th – 19th November). Click here to see the full calendar of events.