THE 83RD ANNUAL SPAA DINNER - WHAT A NIGHT!

THE 83RD ANNUAL SPAA DINNER - 265 GLITTERING GUESTS, 12 PAST PRESIDENTS + 6 SUPERB SPEAKERS!

A wonderful evening was enjoyed by all - some 265 travel sector guests from throughout the UK - at the 83rd Annual SPAA Dinner, in Glasgow's Crowne Plaza hotel - from the cocktails and canapes, to the food and friendship, to the hard-hitting and humorous speeches; the stirring pipes ... and even the gallus Gutty Slippers! The food and drink were much appreciatedand hearty thanks were offered to long-established Annual Dinner venue, Glasgow's Crowne Plaza hotel.

 
Amongst the sponsors for the evening were the hotel, Classic Collection, AF KL DL AZ, British Airways, DFDS Seaways, the Events Company and Travelport.

No fewer than a dozen past Presidents ran their experienced eyes and ears across SPAA President Kevin Thom's second delivery of the Address To A Haggis of his 2 year term, and the general conclusion - shared with a highly appreciative audience - was that it was a vintage performance.

The first guest to speak was MSP and Scottish Transport Minister Keith Brown who, in delivering his greetings to the assembled guests on behalf of the Scottish Parliament, touched on a number of topics currently absorbing Scotland's travel sector - amongst them expansion of aviation, route development and the vexed question of APD. The Minister asserted that the Scottish Government and the SPAA have a shared agenda on aviation expansion and a shared understanding that it is a sector vital to the economic health of the nation. He referred to Holyrood's continuing efforts to convince European legislators that the re-invention of the old air route development fund is a worthwhile, if not vital, component of aviation development strategy for the future and he re-iterated our joint belief that Scotland must have continued, high capacity access to an expanded London hub airport. Finishing his remarks he returned to the vexed subject of APD - repeating the Scottish Government's call for responsibility to be devolved by Westminster, so that the tax would, finally, be re-engineered and ultimately used for the benefit of Scottish aviation - customer and carrier alike.

He was followed with a barn-storming Toast To World Travel & Tourism proposed by SPAA President Kevin Thom, who ranged far and wide in his assessment of the current health of the Scottish travel sector. The full text of the President's speech can be found elsewhere in SPAA News.

Kirker Holidays Joint Managing Director - and larger than life character - Ted Wake gave a highly amusing response - taking the audience on an action-packed trip to exotic places, and even more exotic events, that had taken place during his colourful career. However, he also had some telling advice for independent travel services providers of all kinds, including the need to 'exceed clients' expectations' and to 'take the initative' with them - offering strong advice on the right product for their particular needs. He asserted that consumers are beginning to experience 'internet fatigue syndrome' and that many are ready to be directed by expert, experienced travel providers with exemplary service to offer.

Well-known TV presenter Kirsty Wark (of BBC's Newsnight amongst other programmes) addressed the subject of Travel From The Outside, beginning her remarks by quoting travel writer Paul Theroux who had claimed that people travel far and wide throughout the world and although they almost always return home, they 'never come all the way back' - affected in numerous ways by their encounters with foreign countries and their peoples. Kirsty related a number of recollections from the past of some of her family members - and some of her own memories - and these struck a chord with many guests in the room. She talked of her grandfather, who served aboard one of the great Cunard liners of the 20's and 30's; of seeing film of the newly-launched original Queen Mary undertaking her measured-mile time trials past the Isle of Arran, and of taking a school cruise aboard the old British India ship, the SS Nevassa.

She alluded to the stresses of travelling with her young family in South Africa - following an itinerary devised by close friend and well-respected journalist Alan Little who, she confirmed, was 'no travel agent'! And she finished her entertaining speech by describing her excitement - even as an adult - at hearing the nightly whistle of the old Amtrak train trundling its way across the Colorado countryside.

The formal part of the evening was well rounded-off by a traditional yet contemporary pipes and drums performance by the Neilston Pipe Band ... and a final set - quirky to say the least - from the Gutty Slippers, before the assembled guests adjourned to the 'Departure Lounge' - British Airways' late cocktail party.

The Editor
SPAA Today
01/03/2013

US AIRWAYS + AMERICAN AIRLINES MERGE

It has been announced that American Airlines and US Airways will combine to create a premier global carrier. Operating under the iconic American Airlines name, one of the most recognized brands in the world, the combined airline will have a robust global network, a strong financial foundation and one of the most modern and efficient fleets in the industry.

More Access to More Destinations

The combined company will provide customers with access to more choices and increased service across a larger worldwide network and through an enhanced oneworld^® Alliance. With the new American Airlines, agents will be able to book clients on more than 6,700 daily flights to 336 destinations in 56 countries.

The combined company is expected to maintain all hubs currently served by American Airlines and US Airways, with increased service to existing markets and service to new cities. It is also expected to provide the most service across the East Coast and Central regions of the U.S., including the East Coast shuttle, and to expand its presence and further strengthen its network on the West Coast. Furthermore, the combined airline will be part of a stronger oneworld Alliance, enhancing the ability to provide clients with more options for travel and benefits both domestically and internationally.

According to US Airways, "our combined network will provide a more attractive offering to customers, ensuring that we are always able to take your clients where they want to go."

Enhanced Services

Customers will also benefit from American’s landmark agreements with Airbus and Boeing, designed to transform the new American Airlines fleet over the next four years and solidify its fleet plan into the next decade. The combined airline is planning to take delivery of 607 new aircraft, including 517 narrowbody aircraft and 90 widebody international aircraft, most of which will be equipped with advanced in-seat inflight entertainment systems offering thousands of hours of programming, inflight Wi-Fi offering connectivity throughout the world, and “Main Cabin Extra” seating with 4 to 6 inches of additional legroom in the Main Cabin. In addition, and as currently provided on US Airways’ Airbus A330 international Envoy service, American’s new transcontinental and international widebody aircraft will feature lie-flat, all-aisle access premium class seats.

Largest Loyalty Program

By combining to create the new American, loyalty program members are expected to have even more opportunities to earn and redeem miles from an expanded global network of routes and partnerships, unmatched redemption options including flights, hotels, car rentals, vacation packages, one-way awards and club memberships, and much more.

It is expected the transaction will be completed in the third quarter of 2013. Until the merger is complete, American Airlines and US Airways will remain separate companies and agents and clients should continue to book, track and manage flights through the usual channels, and clients’ flight reservations will be unaffected. 

MTB 16/02/2013

futureSPAA NEWS - FEBRUARY 2013

From : Gayle Gordon

Hello Everyone - February already and, what a start to the year.  Where did January go??  I remember, when I was at school (quite a few years ago I know), the weeks used to drag and seemed to take ages to pass but, now, before you know it, it is Monday again!  Doesn’t time fly when you are having fun?

CHAS (Children’s Hospice Association Scotland) is the SPAA’s chosen charity for this year.  It is an exceptionally worthy Scottish charity that supports our children and their families in their time of greatest need. Read more about CHAS at www.spaa.org / SPAA News and, rest assured, you will hear much more about its work during this year as we ask you to dig deep at our many Association events. There is possibly no other nation with a greater reputation for its big heart than Scotland , so let’s endorse this in 2013 with our active support for CHAS!

This month I would like to start by introducing a new Associate Member, LUX* Resort, who is now just over a year old (ahh) and offer your guests a refreshing change from the “same old same old” luxury resort.  With five resorts in Mauritius and, one in the Maldives , they offer an altogether lighter and brighter holiday experience.  If you have any clients who are keen divers/photographers, the Underwater Festival is to be held at LUX* Maldives from 15 to 21 April 2013 – the link is http://youtube.com/watch?v=uxLkD6L7AYg  Rob O’Keeffe-Wilson is the Sales Manager for Scotland - his mobile number is 0792162622 & e-mail address is rokeefe@luxislandresorts.co.uk  Please feel free to contact him if you have any questions or require training.

SKI INDEPENDENCE – As it is bitterly cold today, where better to start than with a fantastic ski offer.  Your clients will receive a FREE lift pass for Vail, Beaver Creek Breckenridge and Keystone, plus up to 55% savings and $200 resort credit – WOW!!

Osprey holidays – There are some fantastic offers on its city break programme. How about three nights at the K&K hotels in Prague , flying from Edinburgh from just £268.00 per person? Check out http://www.ospreyholdays.com/ for more great deals.

Classic Collection is offering double M&S vouchers for Croatia , Slovenia and Montenegro , i.e. £10.00 per person!  Also, your clients will have free lounge access for any bookings made in the month of February.

Red Sea Holidays  fly from Glasgow to Sharm from now through to April 2014, with  guaranteed child prices, FREE late checkout at all hotels, transfers & rep service - prices starting at £510.00 for 4* all inclusive. If you fancy winning some Love2Shop vouchers, just answer the following questions and send your answers to Nicola.graham@redseaholidays.co.uk

How many hotels do Red Sea Holidays own in Sharm El Sheikh?
What day do Red Sea Holidays fly from Glasgow for Summer 2013?

Travel Cube has added 44 new hotels in South Africa and 35 new hotels in Morocco , as well as a further 170 African properties in12 countries as the continent’s tourism potential rises.  More than half of the properties are in sub-Saharan destinations where visitors can enjoy a rich range of holiday experiences and services.

Flybe has announced that it will be flying three times a week from Glasgow to Shannon commencing 01 May 2013.  This new route should prove particularly popular with leisure travellers wishing to visit Ireland this year to take part in the country’s ‘Year of Welcome - The Gathering”.

BMI Regional has also announced some new routes.   Manchester to Lyon will commence on 05 May 2013 operating weekly on a Sunday and, also, Birmingham to Gothenburg, Lyon and Toulouse . Check out http://www.bmiregional.com/ for further information.

Edinburgh Airport is delighted to announce that Minoan Air will operate a new route to Oxford with effect from March 2013.  The flights will include a full in-flight service to business class standards for all passengers.  Also, did you know that with effect from 31 March 2013 Turkish Airlines will operate 5 times per week to Istanbul and from 20 May 2013 this route will become a daily service.

Staying with airports, Glasgow Airport has two new routes, which are to be operated by Wizz Air to Warsaw and Gdansk .  Also, did you know that you can get EXCLUSIVE travel agents rates for parking and lounge access?  You can park at the long stay car park for     7 nights/8days parking for as little as £20 and 14nights/15days for only £30.00.  Also entry, entry to the Skylounge for only £12.00 per person.  All you need to do is e-mail glatradesupport@glasgowairport.com with your request.  Many thanks to Glasgow Airport .

Superbreak – “Love is in the Air” with some great deals for Valentines day - rates from as little as £74.50 for 2 nights with dinner on the first night in a 4* hotel.  Also, don’t forget to e-mail wendy.cameron@superbreak.com with your valentine references and your name will go into a draw to win £50.00 “fill the fridge” prize!

Attraction World – I have attached Miya ’s update as there is so much information on there, i.e. from Duck tours to Scuba diving!!  These guys really do not miss anything.

Have you all voted yet for Iain at If Only’s tablet recipe??  If not, come on, let’s make sure he wins and vote for him at http://www.agents.ifonly.net/   Also, don’t forget about the Great British Book Off Rewards - you could earn up to £520.00 in Love2Shop voucher for booking made from now until the end of February.  Once again check out the website for more information.

JTA Travel Group is delighted to announce that Kym O,Brien, Head of Sales will now be looking after SPAA Members, you can contact her on 07920114931 or kym.obrien@jtatravel.co.uk

Finally – Leanne from Holiday Extras would like to let you all know about Agents’ Concessions. You can get 20% off Airpark’s airport parking and 15% off Airport parking, hotels & lounges and, coming soon, a massive 20% off travel insurance.  Make sure you watch this space for details.

Well folks, that’s all for now, so I hope I have managed to remember everything.  Don’t forget, our Associates are regularly posting on Future SPAA Facebook page with loads of information and deals.  I hope to see some of you at the next SPAA dinner to be held in the Crowne Plaza in Glasgow on 28 February 2013. The tickets are still on sale, so, as always, make sure you check the website for full details.

GG 10/02/2013

SPAA TO SUPPORT CHARITY CHAS IN 2013

SPAA Council has announced plans to support Scottish children's charity CHAS, by fundraising during the Association's programme of events in 2013. Commenting on the initiative, SPAA President Kevin Thom said, "We are delighted to be adding this new dimension to our highly successful calendar of events - especially on behalf of such a worthy cause and such a fine charity. This is not an easy time for charitable organisations, many of which have no source of funding other than the goodwill of people in the community. As an Association, we're happy to step up - and we'll be making every effort to encourage our Members and guests, throughout 2013, to give generously!"

Children’s Hospice Association Scotland (CHAS) is a charity that provides the only hospice services in Scotland for children and young people with life-shortening conditions. CHAS offers care in two children’s hospices, Rachel House in Kinross and Robin House in Balloch. The hospices support the whole family by offering short planned breaks, emergency support, end of life care and a range of bereavement services.

CHAS also provides a home care service, called CHAS at Home, staffed from both hospices and with dedicated teams in the North of Scotland. The service offers care to families in their own homes when they need it most.

CHAS supports over 250 families, as well as a significant number of families who receive bereavement support. The services are funded mainly through the generosity of the many supporters whohelp raise over £7 million needed each year to provide these vital hospice services.

CHAS Fundraiser Kirsten Dugan said, “We are delighted that the Scottish Passenger Agents’ Association have chosen Children’s Hospice Association Scotland (CHAS) as their charity partner. This year marks 21 years since CHAS was founded and we provide the only children’s hospice services in Scotland. It costs us over £21,000 every day to run CHAS care services – Rachel House in Kinross, Robin House in Balloch and our home care service called CHAS at Home. We’re so grateful to have the support of the SPAA and we’re looking forward to a very successful partnership.”

MTB 02/02/2013

DOUGLAS GEDDES : 1932 - 2013

Following a long and brave 8 year battle with Parkinson’s Disease, Douglas Geddes passed away peacefully, on the evening of 28 January 2013 at the ripe old age of 80.

Well known to the UK Travel Trade, Douglas was at the head of both Davidson Park and Speed, which later became Denholm World Travel. He was a founder member of the Scottish Passenger Agents Association (SPAA) where he also held the position of President more than once. He was also heavily involved in  the creation of the Scottish travel agency consortium, Scotway, holding both Chairman and Secretarial positions. South of the border, he was also Chairman of The Guild of Business Travel Agents.

A prolific after dinner speaker, Douglas was a well known, loved and respected character within the travel world and his bright, honest, compassionate and friendly nature will be sorely missed.

The Funeral Service commences at 1100am on Monday 4 February at Greenock Mount Kirk Church, followed by an additional Service at Greenock Crematorium at 1200 noon on the same day.

He leaves behind his wife of 50 years, Florence, sons David and Alistair and their partners, Fiona and Vicki, as well as grandchildren, Rachel, Claire and Joshua.

If needed, the family can be contacted via David at Geddes Travel, 9 Newton Street, Greenock, Scotland, PA16 8UH or by e-mail at david@geddestravel.co.uk

MTB with thanks to David Geddes 02/02/2013