TIME ONCE AGAIN FOR THE SPAA 'STARS' TO COME OUT

The Association has announced the return of the STAR (Scottish Travel Agents' Road Show) exhibition in conjunction with STAN. The event will take place on Tuesday 26th November 2013 in Glasgow's Thistle Hotel - "from 5pm 'til late".

"The format for the evening is reminiscent - for those who are old enough" says SPAA Secretary Janice Hogarth, "of the old SPATE, with an exhibition first and a party afterwards. The exhibition will involve a
visitor passport to ensure that all the stands are visited and we hope exhibitors will provide questions for the passport together with a prize.

We have changed the venue to a more central location this year after feedback from exhibitors and visitors
last year and we would be happy to co-ordinate appointments prior to the main event starting."

The plan for the evening is as follows :

15:30 : Exhibitors set up

17:00 - 19:30 : STAR Exhibition

19:30 : Buffet served

20:30 'til 01:00 : Entertainment & Dancing

STAR offers "a great opportunity", says Janice "to meet with counter staff, and being close to Christmas
we hope that as many as possible will stay on for the evening, join the staff who have attended and continue networking."

More information is available from jhogarth@spaa.org

MTB 18/10/2013

futureSPAA NEWS - OCTOBER 2013

Yet another month has gone by and we are now hurtling towards the end of yet another year.  Maybe it is just because I am getting older, but time really does seem to fly by!! X Factor has begun, which means one thing, yes, cold, dark wintry Saturdaynights!  Having watched it so far, my money is on the groups to win!

I have just returned from Istanbul and, without doubt, I can honestly say it is one of the most amazing cities I have ever visited and, somewhere I definitely hope to return to.  If you are ever stumped trying to think of a city to send your clients to when they ask for something “different”, this city is definitely one you should suggest and, don’t forget, Turkish Airlines fly daily from Edinburgh to Istanbul!

Now to the monthly update: –

Classic Collection Holidays is delighted to announce an addition to its fantastic programme coming soon and will now feature a City Break brochure with two new destinations, Paris & Amsterdam.  We should all receive file copies very soon!  Also, back by popular demand, is the £50 towards your Xmas party promotion - simply make 3 bookings between  01 November and 20 December! £20.00 Café Rouge vouchers will be given on all France & Monaco bookings and, if you make a booking over £8000, you will receive a hamper of chocolate or, a bouquet of flowers!

Celebrity Cruises hosted some of you at a recent training event at Piperdam and, from the feedback I have received, it would appear that everyone found it beneficial, with many commenting that the format was a much better way to learn, than by “just sitting  in front of a computer”.  Celebrity Cruises would be delighted to host one of you guys at the forthcoming SPAA Awards, so, if you are interested, all you need to do is answer the following question “What are the names of the two Celebrity ships sailing out of the UK in 2014?” Just e-mail me with your answer please ggordon@clydetravel.com.

If Only is offering agents the chance to win one of 5 tours on the Spice Trail to Kerala, India. Simply make a booking between now and 30 November and your name will be entered into the prize draw. Qualifying bookings will be based on tours, cruises, rail journeys or resorts in its newest destinations, i.e. India, Myanmar, Bhutan, Nepal & Laos. Every additional booking made will give you an extra chance to win. See agents.ifonly.net for further details, or call 0141 955 4000.

LUX* Resorts is proud to announce it has won “Best Luxury Hotel Group” at the TTG Awards on 10 September. This is the second award within two years and, LUX* is keen to thank the support from the trade for playing a large part in the victory.

JET2 HOLIDAYS  has yet another Discovery Break for your customers direct from Glasgow - this time, BOSTON for 4 nights departing14 March 2014, taking in St Patrick’s Day and, including 22kgs luggage.  This unmissable offer can be booked with a deposit of only £60 per person.   Remember, Summer 2014 is now on sale with 6 new destinations from Scotland, i.e. Glasgow to Reus, Fuerteventura, Zante & Corfu plus, Edinburgh to Pula & Slovenia. Remember there is £50 off all beach and citybreak packages - just enter SAVE50 on the confirmation page.  BOOK TODAY to make sure your customers don’t miss this great offer.

Lots happening at Glasgow Airport at the moment – here is a round up:-

·         Winter is fast approaching, so if you have any clients who are thinking of booking a ski holiday, remember, GLA can now offer a winter ski programme to Bulgaria with Balkan Holiday.

·         Earn £20 for each winter departure booking made between 01 to 10 October.

·         What about something unique? Transun has a range of short break, day trips and New Year trips on offer from GLA.

·         USA just keeps getting easier from GLA and, now Icelandair is set to introduce a fifth weekly flight next summer, with superb connections to a range of destinations.

·         Welcome back Just Sunshine. The largest independent tour operator to Tunisia, has just confirmed that it will return to GLA for summer 2014 - holidays are on sale now.

·          As ever, GLA appreciates your support so don't forget their exclusive travel agent only lounge and car parking rates. Just email glatradesupport@glasgowairport.com for details. 

United will commence its first scheduled non-stop summer service between Edinburgh and Chicago on 23 May 2014. The service, which will make flying from Scotland to the “windy city” a breeze (pardon the pun)! Flights will operate using Boeing 757-200 aircraft, with a total of 169 seats, including 16 flat-bed seats in United BusinessFirst.

Ski Independence has teamed up with Swiss Tourism to hold an exclusive evening at the indoor Snow factor Xscape at Braehead from 6 p.m. on Wednesday 23 October.  You are all invited to this evening, which promises to be informal & fun, with a chance to ski or snowboard on real snow.  If you would like to attend please email Victoria@ski-i.com. 

bmi regional   has launched a new Aberdeen to Oslo service.  Flights will commence on2 8 October 2013 and will operate everyday, except Saturdays.  Bookings available on your GDS or via www.bmiregional.com

Brisbane has joined the A380 club when Emirates welcomed its flagship aircraft on the popular Dubai-Brisbane-Auckland route - this is the 3^rd Australian destination to receive the aircraft

Hoseasons  - How do you fancy winning a Hot Tub break??  If, so, you just need to confirm a Hot Tub booking between now & 03 November to be in with a chance of winning a break at Raywell Hall Country Lodges - simply email agency.sales@hoseasons.co.ukwith your reference and ABTA number!

Air France has unveiled its new product & service offering in the Premium Economy and Economy cabins.  This represents the first stage of Air France’s move upmarket for each & every passenger and will reflect its commitment to investing in its customers.  The first flight with the new Air France cabins will take place in Summer 2014.  The benefits will include newly revised seats with more legroom, new seat cushions, comfortable headrests, power plugs and, in Premium economy, passengers can benefit for multi-position footrests along with new high definition screens!

Thinking of your own holiday for next year?  How about visiting the Red Sea for free? Red Sea Holidays has doubled its agents’ concessions on selected autumn departures from 50% to 100%, giving you one place completely free! Visitwww.redseaholidays.co.uk/agent

How about a concert? Thanks to Superbreak you could win the opportunity to see Jessie J or WILL.I.AM tickets - simply book any Superbreak overseas package between now and 18 October, e-mail your reference to sales@superbreak.com (stating Jessie J orWILL.I.AM) and you will be entered into a draw to win the tickets!

The ever popular SPAA Travel Awards will take place in The Thistle Hotel in Glasgow on 07 November 2013.  It’s not too late to vote - forms are available online at www.spaa.org  Don your glad rags and join us for what promises to be the best night in Scottish Travel – tickets are still available, so make sure you contact jhogarth@spaa.org for more details!

One last thing, I have undertaken a new role within the Clyde Group and my new e-mail address is now ggordon@clydetravel.com

Gayle Gordon

12 October 2013

LAST CHANCE TO VOTE IN THE SPAA ANNUAL AWARDS 2013!

With less than a month to go until the SPAA Annual Awards Dinner being held on the 7th November in the Glasgow Thistle, all of SPAA Member staff are being called upon to cast their votes to beat the deadline - close of business, 15th October.

"Even if all of the categories do not apply to your area of operation", says SPAA Secretary Janice Hogarth, "please fill in the categories - at least 6 if you can - which are relevant to you. This particularly applies to colleagues in Business Travel Management where the leisure categories may not be applicable. And of course, we're encouraging our Associate colleagues to vote in the Travel Agency categories!"

She continues, "Our headline sponsors this year are Amadeus, Glasgow Airport, Jet 2 Holidays, Virgin Atlantic and once again Travel Weekly and we thank them in advance for their support in helping us to stage this event. The SPAA Annual Awards are held in the highest regard by our principals, as they reflect very accurately how the travel management and the retail industry in Scotland feel about each company nominated. As always, all of these categories will be closely fought, and as every single vote counts it is vitally important that we get as many as we possibly can to be truly representative. Please note that last year we had a record number of votes and we are hoping that you will all support your favourite suppliers again!"

Completed voting forms should be mailed or e mailed to Janice to be received by Tuesday 15th October latest. Additional copies of the voting form can be downloaded below :

Click here for a Voting Paper

MTB 12/10/2013

futureSPAA NEWS - SEPTEMBER 2013

Do you all know that there are only three more pays until Christmas - Ahhh!!  However, on a happier note, I have got one jam-packed Newsletter for you this month.

I’m sure you are all aware that Tim from KLM participated in the gruelling “Beat the Borders” challenge last weekend raising lots of money (£1350 so far) for the SPAA charity, CHAS.  He set himself a challenge to complete the race in 7 ½ hours and managed to smash it in an amazing time of 6 hrs & 13 mins, finishing in seventh place!  Well done Time & Harold (his bike) there is still time to donate by going to www.justgiving/spaa  

Now, here is all the latest news from our Associates:-

LUX*  - The Maldives brings the conventional water sports thrill to a new, groundbreaking level, with the country’s latest and most exciting extreme sport, The Flyboard. By wearing a pair of boots connected to a board, the resorts’ guests can be lifted to heights of up to 10 metres, thanks to the water jets placed under the board which allows it to hover above the surface or to perform spectacular water figures. Check out the video at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YQ-GTWKAh8k

Classic Collection Winter 2013/14 Highlights brochures are now available to order. The A5, 30 page mini brochure, highlights many good savings for the winter season and, for each copy posted out to customers, Classic will send you a covering letter to go with it and will, also, contribute 25p. If you would like supplies of this brochure, just e-mail claire.cannon@classic-collection.co.uk with the number of copies you would like and bag yourselves some early Classic winter bookings for.

PLUS, the complimentary lounge pass promotion, has been extended into September, which means that each customer will receive a lounge pass for any season booked before

30 September 2013.

Travel2 is delighted to announce that its dedicated cruise department is now up and running, so why not give them a call on 08000224301 (only long haul destinations at present).  Also, you can now book car hire online at www.travel2.com 

The new luxury brochure, which includes luxury paperwork & ticket wallets, is just about ready, so make sure you keep an eye out for it and, don’t forget, you get £25.00 for every £2500 of business.

Balkan Holidays  has a new Winter 13/14 ski flight from Glasgow to Sofia, with some fabulous early booking discounts, including free child places, free lift passes, free night skiing and, much, much more - check out www.balkanholidays.com for more information!

Attraction World has extended its Siam Park offer until the end of October, which means no more queuing for clients holding open ticket!  Also, don’t forget, the PortAventura exclusive offer of seven days for the price of four and, if you make a Disney booking in September, make sure you claim your Disney Plush by e-mailing Disney@attractionworld.com

Osprey Holidays has some great prices to Magical Christmas Markets across Europe, from just £225.00 p.p. for 2 nights in Munichflying direct from Edinburgh from late November to early January.

Travelcube  - There are fantastic prizes to be won throughout September when booking sightseeing, attractions & transfers. Each destination service booking you make, from now until 29 September, will be entered into a weekly prize draw for a chance to win some exciting travel inspired products such as Kindle Fires, Molton Brown Jetsetter toiletries, Tumi travel bags and Samsung smart cameras!

Royal Caribbean is looking for its own “Royal Family”– do you have what it takes?   The lucky winners will enjoy a whole host of incredible once-in-a-lifetime events throughout 2014, including a cruise over February 2014 half term as well as an exclusive invitation to the launch of its amazing new ship, Quantum of the Seas.  Simply post your favourite holiday snap on the Facebook “Search for the Royal Family “ app and state, in no more than 150 words, why you think your family should be Royal Caribbean’s new “Royal Family” – entries must be received not later than 13 October.

Holiday Extras has teamed up with Jowsa , bringing customers a great brand new add-on for families with babies. The baby pack add-on contains nappies, baby wipes, Sudocrem, baby shampoo and nappy bags, for either one or two week durations.  To save your customers luggage space, they can purchase the add-on, which will be delivered to their holiday accommodation on the day of their arrival (only currently available for those travelling to Spain, Portugal or France).

US Airtours - If you would like to become a USAExpert, why not have a look at http://www.usaexpert.co.uk/login/ and complete the online training - remember you can earn £50 love2shop vouchers with every price match booked.

Now to the air and, firstly, some breaking news……………..

Icelandair has announced that, with effect from April 2014, they will introduce a fifth weekly flight from Glasgow to Reykjavik.  The extra flight, which will increase capacity by 25%, will further enhance connections to Icelandair’s ever-expanding North American network for Scottish passengers.

bmi Regional has announced the introduction of new domestic flights connecting Stavanger with Harstad and Tromso, Norwaycommencing in January 2014. These services will be the first direct air link between the two fastest growing regions in Norwayand are important hubs for the Norwegian oil and gas industry.  This news comes just days after bmi regional launched a direct service between Aberdeen and Kristiansand, again, both cities are key locations for oil & gas activity in the North Sea (Take a look at Aberdeen Airport’s Instagram, I believe there are some cracking pictures of our President at the launch of the new service!)

Air France is the first European airline to offer a reclining seat inside a fixed shell, providing 40% additional space, in its Premium Economy cabin, which perfectly complements the Air France range of services, by offering quality service, both onboard and, on the ground.

KLM is pleased to announce the introduction of its new World Business Class cabin, now featuring a full-flat seat.  July saw the inaugural flight with the new interior including the new seat.  KLM’s Boeing 747-400 fleet will be redecorated by April 2014 and thereafter, the refit of their15 Boeing 777s will commence.

AIRBALTIC  The Latvian airline plans to launch a new route between Riga and Aberdeen.  This schedule is currently at the planning stages, but is hoped that the new route, which will offer convenient connections between the two cities and beyond to destinations in the Baltic Region, Scandinavia, Russia & the CIS countries, will become operational in Spring 2014.

Finally, Celebrity Cruises will host 10 Future SPAA Members to a training event at Piperdam next week.  I hope you will all have great fun and I very much look forward to seeing the pictures.

Oh, I do hope that I have managed to remember everybody!  Hope you all have a great weekend!

Gayle

Future SPAA

TIM ROULSTON 'BEATS THE BORDERS' COMPREHENSIVELY FOR CHAS!

All the serious training and preparation prior to last Saturday's 'Beat The Borders' challenge came good for SPAA stalwart Tim Roulston (KL/AF) when he took off from the starting line. Tim had set himself a challenge to complete the challenge in 7½ hours - but managed to smash it, completing the 40 mile ride and 18 mile run in an amazing time of 6 hours 13 minutes, and finishing in seventh place.

Tim's effort was in aid of SPAA designated charity CHAS (Children's Hospice Association Scotland), and his total to date is £1,350. On behalf of the Association - and CHAS - SPAA President Kevin Thom said, "Well done Tim - and Harold (his trusty bike). It was a great effort on behalf of a great cause!"

Donations can still be made by visiting www.justgiving/spaa.

MTB 07/09/2013

FINAL COUNTDOWN TO 'BEAT THE BORDERS'

THE COUNTDOWN CONTINUES

just 24 hours to go ...

A FIRST HAND VIEW OF THE INCREDIBLY VALUABLE WORK BEING DONE BY OUR DESIGNATED CHARITY - CHAS

SPAA Secretary Janice Hogarth this week visited the charity's Robin House this week. Here's her report …

It's perhaps too easy, in these days of ever-increasing demands on our time and resources, to become cynical. So it's timely and humbling to be reminded just occasionally of the insight, commitment and unselfish hard work poured into a haven such as Robin House - not to mention the huge and unending financial investment it demands. Robin House exemplifies Children's Hospice Association Scotland's mission - providing Scotland's only hospice services for our children and young people who have life shortening conditions, and their families.

Is Robin House a serious place? Yes, in terms of its day to day work it is, offering not just patient and family respite care, but also really forward-looking activities - like the beautiful swimming pool that affords deeply physically challenged kids the rare opportunity to have a proper hug with a parent, or the 'light show' apparatus that allows very sick youngsters mental and emotional stimulation, and some simple fun, in their very restricted lives. So, is this haven of peace and support a happy place? Absolutely, and the 500+ kids, young people and family members who are helped by CHAS each year will attest to just how much Robin House, Rachel House and the charity's home outreach support mean to them.

My abiding memory of my visit is of the total commitment of the staff - wreathed in genuine smiles for all, and the response of the kids and families, for whom CHAS provides empathetic and insightful care at the most challenging time of their lives. And my message from my visit is a simple one. Of course, we all have seemingly endless calls on our generosity - but this call is from close to home; it's heartfelt and the cause is the worthiest you will ever encounter. Please dig deep!

LET'S ALL GET BEHIND TIM AS HE 'BEATS THE BORDERS' TO SUPPORT THIS VITAL ORGANISATION!

Can he 'Beat the Borders'? Yes, he can! Our very own Tim Roulston will participate in this gruelling challenge, raising money for CHAS with every mile he cycles and runs. Tim will take part in the 12-hour activity event in the Scottish Borders TOMORROW - Saturday 31 August. He'll take on the challenge by bike and on foot, with the objective of completing the 58 mile Gold Route. He's been in serious training and he's looking for YOUR support - so please dig deep and donate on his Just Giving page at www.justgiving.com/spaa.

Best of luck to Tim - who's rising to the challenge selflessly and solely in support of this really worthy cause - and sincere thanks to YOU for your vital contribution!

our target ...

... let's get the total up to £1,500 by 5.00pm tomorrow!

visit www.justgiving.com/spaa and please give generously!

Janice Hogarth
SPAA Secretary
30 August 2013

AN ENJOYABLE + CHALLENGING ANNUAL GOLF DAY AT DUNDONALD LINKS!

It turned out to be a great event - as always - with 8 competitive teams in contention for the honours. Dundonald Links being a relatively new, American-designed course, it was the first outing on it for many of the golfers, and by all accounts it proved a challenging, but enjoyable 18 holes. The event this year was co-ordinated with the help of GolfKings, and generously sponsored by the golf specialist, Travelport, Tourism Ireland and Turkish Airlines.

The full team list was :

TEAM 1 : Tom Blair (Glen Travel), Frank Docherty (GolfKings), Alan Glen, Douglas Glen

TEAM 2 : Gordon McCreadie (Travel 2), Brian Potter (Clyde Travel), John Semple (GolfKings)

TEAM 3 : Douglas McCarthy, Ken McLeod (Advantage), Dave Rivers, Ian Scott

TEAM 4 : Graeme Cuthbertson (Costwatchers), Tony Hollis (Amadeus), Craig Patterson (Stewart Travel), Grant Smith (Amadeus)

TEAM 5 : Hjorvar Hoganson (Icelandair), Peter O'Mara (Aer Arann), Chris Tames, Paul White (Glasgow Airport)

TEAM 6 : Ryan Carroll (Hoseasons), Danny Giles (Hurtigruten), Linda McDonald (RSSC), Mark O'Neill (Gold Medal)

TEAM 7 : Colin Currie (Travel 2), Craig Davidson (FlexiTrips), John Dougherty (Arnold Fisher)

TEAM 8 : Warren Baillie, Matt Conway, Paul Jarvie, Ian Stapleton (all FCm) 

And the Winners were :

JAMES ROBERTSON TROPHY : Frank Docherty

Runner-up : Matt Conway

3rd Place : Peter O'Mara

TEAM PRIZE : TEAM 1

LADIES' PRIZE : Linda McDonald

NEAREST THE PIN : Douglas Glen

LONGEST DRIVE : Craig Patterson

WOODEN SPOON : Hjorvar Hoganson

Visit the Gallery above (home page) for all the pictures, and there'll be a full report, too, in the new edition of SPAA Today, out at the weekend and downloadable above (home page).

MTB 23/08/13

JUST A WEEK TO GO - SPAA ANNUAL GOLF TOURNAMENT

The youthful but magnificent Dundonald Links course, on the coast between Irvine and Troon, is the slated venue for this year's SPAA Golf Tournament, scheduled for Thursday next, 22 August.

Tee times are reserved from 12.00 noon on the day, with tea, coffee and bacon rolls served from 11.00am, and a Prize Giving and High Tea will take place in the Clubhouse at around 7.00pm.

A coach will operate from and to Glasgow, leaving the city centre's Grand Central Hotel at 9.30am and Glasgow Airport at 10.00am and heading back to Glasgow at around 8.30pm.

The Tournament is open to SPAA Members and Associate Members and members of the travel community, and SPAA Members and Associate Members can bring guests.

The cost for the day is £70 per person, and coach transfers will cost £15 per person.

The Tournament is being arranged in association with GolfKings.

Registrations should be submitted to jhogarth@spaa.org or fdocherty@golfkings.co.uk

MTB 16/08/13

futureSPAA NEWS - JULY 2013

futureSPAA News from Gayle Gordon ...

What a jam- packed edition I have for you this month!!

SPAA is delighted with the positive feedback from both Agents and Suppliers following the Summer Ball held last week in The Assembly Rooms in Edinburgh. I was completely blown away by the amazing venue - so much so, that someone even commented it was the first time they had ever seen me speechless and, for those that know me that is saying something!!! Why not check-out the photo gallery on www.spaa.org and see for yourself.

Regent Silver Sea Cruises is delighted to announce its 2014 Cruise Atlas Ultra-luxury All Inclusive brochure is out now. My copy arrived in the post this morning, but if you haven’t received a copy yet, please order now at www.trade-gate.co.uk

United Airlines second daily flight from Edinburgh to Newark has now started. In addition to the nonstop morning flights from both Glasgow & Edinburgh, they will now operate a second nonstop flight, offering connections to over 300 destinations, departing Edinburgh 1205, arriving Newark 1440, from now until 28 August. Flights from Glasgow & Edinburgh are operated on Boeing 757-200 aircraft, offering three choices of seating, i.e. Economy, Economy Plus & United Business First with 180 degree flatbed seats. For more information, visit www.united.com

bmi Regional has launched a new route between Aberdeen and Kristiansund in Norway. This service, the first direct scheduled link between the two cities, will commence on 28 August and will operate a daily weekday flight (Monday to Friday) on theAberdeen based Embraer. Booking is now available on www.bmiregional.com or via GDS.

Fred Olsen - Amanda Anderson is back from maternity leave - that sure felt like a quick 9 months! In case you need her, here are her contact details – 07795443292 or e-mail amanda.anderson@fredolsen.co.uk Due to high demand for Boudicca & Black Watch, Solar Eclipse Cruises are now both fully booked. However, Fred Olsen is pleased to announce details of a third Solar Eclipse Cruise (M1505) on Braemar, departing from Dover on 11 March 2015 for 13 nights. Guests will cruise to precise coordinates deep within the ‘Path of Totality’ and enjoy one of the best views on the planet of this natural phenomenon.

KLM - After listening to passengers’ needs & wishes and, after collaboration with top Dutch designer, Hella Jongerias to create a brand new atmosphere & style, they are pleased to announce the introduction of its new World Business Class cabin, featuring a full-flat seat.

Silversea has amazing offers on economy and business class flights, starting at only £399.00 on a wide selection of its Fall 2013 voyages

Emirates is delighted to have been named The Best Airline in the World for 2013 by Skytrax Airline customers. Dubai Tourism have a new app for i-phone & i-pad - it is so informative - just search for ‘Dubai the Destination UK’ in the App Store.

Red Sea Holidays - Danielle Shepherd has been appointed Trade Relations Manager for Scotland. If you have any questions please contact her at Danielle.Shepherd@RedSeaHolidays.co.uk

Balkan Holidays is delighted to announce an additional flight from Aberdeen next summer. This flight will operate on Mondays and cover the summer school holidays from 30 June to 04 August 2014. Bookings can be made via Viewdata, the Agents’ websitewww.balkanholidays.co.uk/agents or, on the reservations no. 0845 1301114. On another note, SPAA would like to welcome Balkan Holidays as an Associate Member.

Glasgow Airport is delighted to welcome the first departure of the Thomson 787 Dreamliner on 08 July. Also, don’t forget, there are some great last minute unbelievable bargains from Glasgow – take a look at Just Sunshine to Tunisia on 06 & 13 July. Also, don’t forget about Airways to both Jersey and Guernsey and, with prices from just £399, its time to grab a bargain. Don’t forget to book your own parking and lounges - there are some amazing exclusive rates!

If Only – Book a holiday in July & August and join us at our VIP Scottish Movie Première in September. If Only... uses its Scottish ‘know how’ and style to produce amazing holidays to Arabia, the Indian Ocean and Asia for agents all across the country. Renowned stars of our previous productions - the much loved Emirates and the fabulous LUX* Resorts - join us in welcoming you to our very own VIP Movie Première at our private cinema in the luxurious Blythswood Hotel in Glasgow. Join us to discover the new delights that Emirates and LUX* have to offer and be the very first to see our new 2014/2015 Brochures – revealing a host of new destinations that will be added to the If Only... portfolio. And be first to view “Hanki Panki” - recently previewed at the Cannes Film Festival – a romantic comedy about two women from Scotland who go to India to enter a baking competition and end up marrying Maharajas! Like all film premieres – the red carpet, welcome cocktails and delicious food will be on hand to make the evening sparkle. So put on your glad rags, posh frocks and tuxedos for a Hollywood/Bollywood night of fun. And of course like the Oscars, there will be some lucky guests leaving with amazing prizes - not golden statues - but stunning holidays, spa days and cinema passes.

How do I get my VIP Première Invitation?

« Easy – simply book an If Only... holiday over £3,000 that includes Emirates or LUX*

« Register your booking at agents.ifonly.net

« Receive your personal VIP Scottish Movie Première Invitation

« Join us on the Red Carpet in Glasgow on 11 September

USAirtours launches its brand new FREE Online Training Academy, exclusively for independent travel agents, with one goal - to create USA Experts! Once you complete your 12 modules you will receive a certificate and be entered into a draw to win a place on a FAM trip!

LUX*ELICIOUS Offers – Don’t you just love their phrases?? There are amazing discounts on offer, i.e. 25% discount at LUX* Belle Mare for stays 1October to 21December; 15% discount at LUX* Grand Gaube for stays 01 October to 06 January and, 10% discount at Tamassa, for stays 01 November to 21 December. Also, LUX* has been nominated as best Luxury Hotel and Resort Operator of the Year 2013 at the TTG Awards - if you want to vote for them, they would really appreciate it!

DFDS is paying £10 Love2Shop vouchers with every group of 10 or more for bookings made until 31 December 2013. Submit your claim by email to resource.admin@dfds.com and don’t forget to include your ABTA No. as well as your name and reference. There is also a new online booking system for Harwich – Esbjerg & English Channel routes which is a much cheaper, easier and more efficient way to make your DFDS bookings. For more information, visit www.dfds.co.uk/agent

Celebrity Cruises - Are there any budding chefs out there? Well, if so, you still have a time to cook your way to Stockholm by entering your dish to win a fam trip and a Celebrity Cruise! Make sure you enter your dish by 15 July and check outwww.celebritycruises.co.uk for full details.

JTA Cruise has now launched. This soft-launched system, which has been live since Friday, is already proving to be very popular. Access is through the JTA website www.jtatravel.co.uk and you can enter the system through the heading “cruise” - there is an online video and voice-over demo showing you how to navigate round the booking process. It is very interactive and has many images to support agents when selling cruises, such as deck places, etc. Also, don’t forget, the SPAA Agent with the highest increase in sales can win the “Fill the Fridge” incentive - just remember to email kym.Obrien@jtair.co.uk

I am sure everybody was watching Andy Murray in the Wimbledon Final yesterday – didn’t he do Scotland proud!

That’s all for now folks but, as always, if you need me, you know where I am…………….

Gayle Gordon 07/07/13

CHAS PROMOTES 'BEAT THE BORDERS' EVENT

The SPAA's designated charity - CHAS (Children's Hospice Association Scotland) is promoting a major fund-raising event in Scotland's Borders, introduced here by Fundraiser Kirsten Dugan :

"On Saturday 31 August “Beat the Borders” will kick off in the heart of the Scottish Borders in Melrose, giving you the chance to tackle the Borders by bike and foot while raising money for Children’s Hospice Association Scotland (CHAS). Here is the link for more info www.beattheborders.co.uk

There are limited places left for this event and we’d really appreciate having you on board for an amazing day out in support of CHAS. Teams of two to four are encouraged and you can put in multiple teams.

As a highly valued supporter we’re delighted to offer you a discount on the usual registration fee. You can sign up for Beat the Borders for only £40 per person (usually £60) – quite possibly the best £40 you’ll spend this month! All we need you to do is confirm your team by Monday 15 July – either by contacting Jon Heggie at jonheggie@chas.org.uk or by registering online and quoting the code “SupporterCHAS” at www.beattheborders.co.uk

58 miles to cover, 12 hours to do it, one fantastic party at the finish and one truly incredible charity to support!

See you there!

Kirsten Dugan
Fundraiser
South East of Scotland
kirstendugan@chas.org.uk"

MTB 05/07/13

EDINBURGH WELCOMES THE SPAA SUMMER BALL!

A grand gathering of more than 250 travel personalities from around the UK descended on the magnificent Assembly Rooms, Thursday evening. Veteran Ball guests will know the event alternates between East and West, and this year the new venue - the beautifully refurbished Assembly Rooms in the heart of the capital - proved to be a superb and memorable venue. The Ball provided a much-appreciated opportunity, as we approach mid-year, to kick back and enjoy some fine food, fellowship - and as it turned out, quite a bit of fun, too.

Sponsors Air Canada, Edinburgh Airport, Travelport and Classic Collection joined with SPAA Social Convenor Joanne Dooey and her team to produce a vintage event, and the Association's chosen charity - CHAS (Children's Hospice Association Scotland) - was presented with a cheque for a huge £3,000, as guests dug deep to support its vital work with sick children and their families in Scotland.

Sponsor Air Canada's UK chief Bob Atkinson presented Andrea Pellicci (STAN) with 2 tickets to Toronto on the airline's brand new Rouge service, and another lucky winner took home a case of wine. This year's Ball was the last to be presided over by SPAA President Kevin Thom, who gave the vote of thanks to all those involved and looked forward to incoming President Jimmy Martin's term of office, which will begin in November 2013.

Dinner was followed by music and dancing - as always, well into the early hours of Friday morning - and the dancefloor was graced from the first note by an energetic Vice President! The first pictures from the Ball can be viewed above and visit the Gallery above for the full portfolio.

MTB 27/06/13

A HUGE 'THANK YOU' TO SPAA SUMMER BALL GUESTS FROM CHAS!

A message from Kirsten Dugan, CHAS Fundraiser :

As many of you will know, Children’s Hospice Association Scotland (CHAS) is currently the SPAA’s nominated charity. We were delighted to be supported so warmly by everyone who attended the summer ball in Edinburgh on Thursday night and to be presented with such a fantastic cheque. On behalf of over 300 families from all over Scotland who benefit from the support of Rachel House, Robin House and CHAS at Home – thank you!

At CHAS, we are halfway through our 21 year anniversary and volunteers and families have been celebrating in lots of wonderful ways. We recently had help from the Scottish Opera to record a song which reflects the experiences of children, families, volunteers and staff from across CHAS. The song ‘Key to the
Door (Little People)’ is a celebration of life which captures the essence of everything CHAS does.

Alison Blair, Activities Co-ordinator, Rachel House said, "There's one line in the song, it says, “I wonder about the reasons why we do this, then I look and I see your smile is ten foot wide.” That is the reason why we do it, because of the children and the joy that they have."

That’s what your support means to us – you help us create “ten foot wide smiles”. Again, thank you so much. If you would like any further information about CHAS, or how you can support us, please do get in touch.

Best wishes,

Kirsten Dugan
Fundraiser
0131 444 1515
kirstendugan@chas.org.uk

FAIR TAX ON FLYING CAMPAIGN CALLS FOR BUSINESS SUPPORT!

Launching a new phase of its ongoing campaign to 'bring the UK Government to its senses' regarding APD, the Fair Tax On Flying Campaign - of which the SPAA is an active member - is calling on its members to encourage the businesses they deal with to sign a new petition, with the following message :

"As you will know, the SPAA is a member of A Fair Tax on Flying.

We are launching a new campaign with the goal of encouraging thousands of businesses to sign up to our online petition calling for Air Passenger Duty (APD) to be made fairer. However, to make it a success we need your support.

Our aim this year is to mobilise the voices of UK businesses so we need your help as a business. Your
participation will take no more than one minute and it will make all the difference to the campaign.

You can click here to register your support for the campaign: www.afairtaxonflying.org/business.

You can also follow @fairtaxonflying for more campaign updates on Twitter and we’d encourage you to tell other businesses you work with about this initiative. It’s word of mouth in person and on social media that will ensure this campaign is a success.

Last year – as you may know – A Fair Tax on Flying’s campaign attracted the support of an incredible 200,000 people who wrote to their MPs about APD. The bar has been set high so we now need your help to make this year’s campaign a success.

If you need any more information about the campaign you can contact A Fair Tax on Flying’s co-ordinator Olly Kendall on olly@westminsterpa.com."

MTB 22/06/2013

futureSPAA LATEST FROM GAYLE GORDON

Dare we believe that summer has arrived and it may even last the weekendJ!!!  As usual, our Associates are busy people and have lots of information to share with you as follows:-

The first Aspire Luxury Forum to take place in Scotland will be held in the Balmoral Hotel, Edinburgh on 27 June between 10.15a.m. and 4.15p.m.  Why not go along and meet the Key Suppliers, including Oman & Jordan Tourist Board, as well as Jebel Ali, Banyan Tree & Rocco Forte.  Registration is free, so all you need to do to reserve your space, is e-mail Audrey@mtcmarketing.co.uk

Glasgow Airport is offering discounted Agents’ parking rates, from just £20.00 for    7 nights and access to the amazing Skylounge from just £12.00.  If you have your own holiday coming up soon, just e-mailglatradesupport@glasgowairport.com to book.  They are also delighted to announce the brand new destinations of North Cyprus with Cyprus Premier Holidays, Tunisia with Just Sunshine and, of course, Guernsey with Airways Holidays.  Also, somewhere difference for a city break, how about Dusseldorf with Lufthansa?

LUX* - Online training programme is now live and is a great platform to learn all about this amazing product.  Did you know that there are red telephone boxes in all resorts where your clients can call home FREE OF CHARGE?  I didn’t know that either, until, of course, I did the training!! Once completed, you will receive two complimentary nights at any of their properties. For 2014, there is a new product called “LUX* It Up” - this supplement package can be added on to any board basis and gives guests the chance to enjoy spa treatments, excursions, baby-sitting and gourmet cooking courses!

Attraction World  has a Turkey special offer - Aqua Dream Water Park in Marmaris, where children only pay half price when accompanied by 2 adults. This offer is valid for bookings from now until 15 July, so make sure you get booking this product!!

Travel 2 – Firstly would like to thank you all for voting them 2013 Overall Business Partner, Leisure, at the Advantage Conference, as well as Best Consolidator at the Travel Network Group Conference.  To show their appreciation, they want to reward us with 15% Commission on ALL package holidays on ANY travel dates made online or via the call centre on the dedicated number 0800 458 4013.  

Classic Collection – The 2013/14 Canary Island brochure is now out, but if you haven’t received supplies yet, don’t panic, it is on the way.  Make sure you check out the great offer with the 5* IntercontinentalAphrodite Hills in Cyprus, i.e. complimentary upgrade from B&B to HB, or, from HB to FB.  Don’t forget to keep claiming your M&S vouchers.

Wendy Wu has relaunched its online Travel Training, which will give us all confidence to sell this product.  There are 5 modules in total and, once you complete them all, you will receive a certificate and be entered into a prize draw to win a place on an education to China.  All you need to do is register atwww.wuniversity.co.uk

Hoseasons, don’t forget, do citybreak apartments too and for every apartment

booking confirmed up to 30 June,  you will receive £10.00 per booking.  Have a look atwww.hoseasons.co.uk/agents and enter the quiz – you never know, you may be the lucky winner of a weekend bag!

Holiday Extras – The “Go For Gold Campaign” is now well and truly underway. To celebrate 30 years of trading, Agents are being awarded with Gold, Silver and Bronze Awards, with prizes ranging from X-Factor tickets to sweetie hampers.  Take a look at www.holidayextras.com/Incentives for full details.

Eastern Airways  has increased its service from Aberdeen to Leeds Bradford from 22 to 26 flights per week, with up to 3 flights operating in each direction.

Emirates will launch a direct service from Milan & New York  on 01 October and, also, on this date, they are pleased to announce that the EK434/435 service to BNE and AKL will be upgraded to an Airbus A380-800. Don’t forget the fantastic sales support team in Glasgow, if you need anything please call 0141 225 6200.

Air Canada Rouge – Only one month now until take off!  Remember, with effect from 03 July the newEdinburgh to Toronto service will operate daily.

Brussels Airlines, the leading Belgian airline, has 12 flights weekly from Edinburgh to Brussels, where your clients can connect to 50 European destinations, 17 African, as well as New York & Washington.  Remember, it is a member of Star Alliance, working with 27 airlines and operating more than 21,000 flights daily!

Turkish Airlines is delighted that it is now operating a daily flight from Edinburgh to Istanbul and, to mark this occasion, there was a reception at the airport (see photo below)

Virgin Atlantic has announced that, with effect from 2014, it will increase its capacity by more than one third on its popular Glasgow to Florida flights, resulting in 14,000 extra seats being available between April & October.  The aircraft will feature economy, premium and, upper class services.

Azamara is, until 30 June, offering passengers $200 onboard credit PLUS free or reduced flights on selected 2013 and 2014 voyages.  You will also receive £50.00 John Lewis vouchers for confirmed bookings!

Hurtigruten still has availability on its “allocated on arrival” cabin offer for its 4 classic voyages this Summer and it is pleased to announce that this offer has now been extended until the Autumn.  Apparently, there will be a “Solar Maximum” this Autumn, which means that the Northern Lights should be absolutely amazing - to celebrate this, they are giving away free North Cape excursions on all voyages and, with prices from Edinburgh starting at £1372.00, what are you waiting for?

As the inaugural ship for Silversea Cruises, Silver Cloud epitomises everything that is Silversea.  Designed to provide the most intimate of sailing experiences, a Silver Cloud cruise provides guest with the luxury of space and the ability to slip into exotic ports of the beaten path.  Following an extensive top-to-bottom makeover, a “new” Silver Cloud is now sailing with fresh new décor and a number of structural enhancements.  Check out www.silversea.com for full details of itineraries and prices.

Well, nearly there, but, before I go, I would like thank Aman Kohli & Irene Darracott for their fantastic contribution to the SPAA quiz so far and, with the final looming next week, I would like to wish all the teams the very best of luck.

Summer Ball is just around the corner and, hopefully, I will see some of you there. 

That’s all for now folks, so enjoy your weekend and I will be in touch with you again next month at the same time.

07/06/2013

STEWART TRAVEL'S 'BEST IN THE WEST' WIN SPAA TRAVEL QUIZ 2013 IN HOT FINAL!

Drawing ahead in the final round by a tight 5 points, Stewart Travel's Team - 'Best In The West' - were victorious in last night's Grand Final of the 2013 SPAA Travel Quiz, beating off hot competition from Thomas Cook's 'George Street Gals'.

At the end of the closely fought competition, Stewart Travel had 208 points; Thomas Cook were Runners-up with 203 points, and Alba Travel's 'Airheads' shared 3rd Place with Travel 2's 'Travel 3' on 195 points.

28 Teams - yet another record - contested this year's Quiz, with 9 reaching the Grand Final (although only 8 were able to compete due to staff problems at the other Finalist - ATPI's 'Choir Boys').

Immediate Past President Brian Potter (Clyde Travel) welcomed the assembled company on behalf of President Kevin Thom (QA Business Travel), beginning with a vote of thanks to Travel 2 for another year of excellent hospitality in hosting the Final in Glasgow HQ - Skypark. He also thanked Sponsors - Superbreak, Glasgow/Edinburgh/Aberdeen Airports and Virgin Atlantic for once again offering splendid prizes; respectively - short break vouchers, Kindles and air tickets (worldwide).

Commenting on the fact that Questionmaster Aman Kohli was officiating - in his own unique way - for an 8th and final year, ably assisted by colleague Lisa Menzies, Brian went on to present Aman with a 'one-of ' 'Aman Kohli On Tour' teeshirt (take a look at the Gallery, above) and a bottle of single malt; he also made a presentation to Lisa, who will be retiring at the same time as Aman. Taking up the mantle from 2014 (and the cudgels, where necessary?) will be Council Member Irene Darracott (Connoisseur Travel).

As always, Aman's unconscious humour spiked the evening with good-natured controversy and much laughter. Perhaps his best question of the evening (and possibly, ever!) - an impromptu tie-breaker between the Alba Airheads and Travel 3 - was, "Which Magazine is published by what organisation?". It could be construed as the world's first unanswerable question, but SPAA Today understands the intended answer is the Consumer Association! Ultimately, the two 3rd place contenders were inseparable and a generous Wendy Cameron offered vouchers to both Teams.

During the evening, SPAA Secretary Janice Hogarth made a collection for the Association's designated charity - CHAS (Children's Hospice Association Scotland).

MTB 14/06/2013

Reports by Kevin Thom, SPAA President ... and check out the Gallery for all the pictures from the Heats

ABERDEEN HEAT - 28 MAY 2013

Tuesday night saw the final heat of the SPAA Travel Quiz in Aberdeen, with a record amount of teams entering. After a very closely fought battle, the Alba Airheads were the worthy winners, closely followed by Beaver Travel and ATP International. These teams will now join the winners from both Glasgow and Edinburgh in the final to be held in Glasgow in June. Let the battle commence!!

KT 30/05/13

THE ABERDEEN TEAMS :

Alba Travel : The Airheads : Heat Winners

Beaver Travel : The Quizzy Rascals : Runners-up

ATPI : The Choir Boys : Third Place

ATPI : The 3 Amigos

FCM Solutions : The Tortured Souls

Munro's Travel Group : Munrosia's Rice Puddings

Munro's Travel Group : Quiz Akabusi

Portman Travel : The Portables

QA Business Travel : 3 Men On A Fact Hunt

RCI : Here For The Beer

Trailfinders : Trains, Planes & Hot Air Balloons

EDINBURGH HEAT - 21 MAY 2013

Last night, the runaway winning team at the Edinburgh heat of the SPAA Quiz was the Dickson Dippits (John, Mark and Siobhan) In 2nd place was Traveleads and, after a closely fought battle, the 3rd place went to Thomas Cook's George Street Gals from Perth. The winning teams, along with Glasgow's top 3 and the 3 finalists from next week's Aberdeen Heat will all compete in the Grand Final in Glasgow on Thursday 13 June.

KT 22/05/13

THE EDINBURGH TEAMS :

Ian Dickson Travel : The Short Straws : Heat Winners

Traveleads : The Triple Nines : Runners-up

Thomas Cook : The George Street Gals : Third Place

Connoisseur Travel : The Three Sages

Connoisseur Travel : The Three Stooges

Osprey Holidays : Osprey Ski

Trailfinders : The Three Goolies

GLASGOW HEAT - 14 MAY 2013

It was a closely fought night at the Glasgow heat of the SPAA Travel Quiz. Our Quizmaster Kohli was his usual entertaining self but was kept in tow by Quiz Mistress Irene. The leader board chopped and changed throughout the night but the worthy winners - the team from Costwatchers - were closely followed by Travel 2 in 2nd place and Kenneth Macleod Travel in 3rd place. All the teams did extremely well with the 1st, 2nd and 3rd placed competing in the final in Glasgow on 13 June. Next week the battle will continue with the Edinburgh Heat on Tuesday 21 May. So make sure you watch this space to see who will make it to the grand final!

KT 17/05/13

THE GLASGOW TEAMS :

Costwatchers : The Costies : Heat Winners

Travel 2 : Travel 2 : runners-up

Kenneth McLeod Travel : Third Place

Clyde Travel

Hays Travel

Stewart Travel : The Best In The West

Travel Counsellors : No Clue ATOL

Travel 2 : The T Amigos

Travel 2 : Make Mine A Stella

MTB 31/05/13