Skill up on all you need to know with bite sized travel news to help you be your best today and tomorrow.
1. Air New Zealand challenges Qantas to a dance-off
Oooooooo Air New Zealand just served its Tasman rival, Qantas, with a challenge… the running man challenge.
‘Out of the air Quan, let’s take this to the dance floor.’
No, that’s not a direct quote from the Kiwi carrier but it’s how we imagine the team delivering the dare in a fierce teen dance movie.
2. Three competing Travel Agents move in together
Three Western Australia-based Travel Agents have put aside their rivalry and come together to cut operational costs and boost each others businesses.
Carol Shaw from Tour de Force Travel; Jan Welch of Sorrento Quay Travel; and Sue Holmes from Carine Travel Bug have announced they’re moving into a shared premises in order to save a little money on rental.
Commencing 4 July this year, the trio will share an office in the Perth suburb of Duncraig.
3. WIN a holiday to Bali, a Visa pre-paid card OR a luxury cruise
Forget the silly season, winter season or even the delicious apricot season, it feels like incentive season in the travel industry and what’s better than winning free stuff?
This week, three different travel companies launched their own agent incentives giving consultants the chance to win some generous goodies as a reward for selling.
A free luxury cruise, a five-night holiday to Bali and Visa pre-paid gift cards are all up for grabs and here’s how you can go in the running to get your hands on one (or two) of these prizes:
4. Etihad opens new Melbourne Airport Premium Lounge
Etihad has opened the doors to its new Premium Lounge at Melbourne Airport, offering guests next level style and comfort before they fly.
Available to up to 133 guests at a time, the space features a floor-to-ceiling glass window providing natural air and an expansive view of the run as well as a 26-seat dining area where guests can enjoy a la carte dining and an international buffet.
Another key feature of the Premium Lounge is the sculptural showcase bar, stocked with more than 70 premium spirits, champagne and apertifs as well as wine from Victorian makers.
5. Chat live with Excite Holidays
Have a question for Excite but don’t feel like picking up a phone? No worries, you can now connect with the online wholesaler via its new Live Chat.
Launched this week for Australian and New Zealand consultants, the feature gives agents another method of interaction and booking support.
By using Live Chat, travel agents are able to speak to a member of Excite Holidays’ agency support team without waiting in a queue, 24 hours a day, every day. Once agents type in their query, they will receive an instantaneous response.
6. Scenic Ever Wondered sessions throughout June
Scenic will run a second round of nationwide Ever Wondered sessions in June this year.
In partnership with local Travel Agents, the events are designed to update travellers on various Scenic trips and encourage them to then go back and book with their consultants.
The June sessions will concentrate on the new Scenic Eclipse ocean cruising program; 2017 European River Cruising; 2017 Canada, Alaska & USA; 2017 South America; and 2016/17 South East Asia River Cruising.
All sessions are free but seats are limited so pre-booking is essential.
7. Agents Venture into Vietnam & Singapore
A group of travel agents from South Australia travelled with Venture Holidays and Singapore Airlines on a five-night educational to Ho Chi Minh City and Singapore.
Highlights of the trip included exploring Ho Chi Minh City on the back of a Vespa on the Saigon at Night by Vespa tour whilst immersing the group in the local nightlife scene.
Another half-day sightseeing tour of Ho Chi Minh City introduced the group to the buzzing city which amalgamates traditional and modern life. The group visited places such as historic centre, City Hall, the Reunification Palace, and the War Remnants Museum.
8. Wo Wo the fun police greets Carnival cruisers
Carnival Cruise Line guests received a fun welcoming at Moreton Island last week when the fun police joined in on local activities.
The resident fun policeman was responsible for ensuring cruisers had a great day during Carnival Spirit’s inaugural visit to the island.
Dressed as an English bobby, the local copper kept the fun vibes alive amongst guests issuing rewards, as well as fun fines – in the form of popcorn and fairy floss vouchers – to those in need of a hand to reach their fun-tential.
