|
|
|
  
If you cannot view this email properly please click here. |
8 June 2012 |
|
|
|
|
ATLAS NEWSLETTER
Dear Atlas subscriber,
Welcome to the June edition of Atlas. As winter draws in this is the perfect time to start planning your summer holiday and we have some exceptional cruise offers and massive discounts on Club Med in this edition to tempt you.
The Travel Authority have drawn inspiration from the wonderful film "The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel" and put together an exclusive package for the traveller looking for something a little different on a fully escorted tour with highlights and unique experiences of India. If you have ever wanted to explore this fascinating country, this is the perfect opportunity.
Having recently stayed at Shangri La, Singapore last week I was able to have a sneak preview of their new Garden Wing and I must say it is very impressive. The property is an oasis in the heart of the city with a stunning swimming pool, service is second to none and the new Garden Wing rooms are beautifully appointed. Perfect for business, leisure, groups and incentives.
Lastly, please review the important changes contained in this newsletter regarding domestic baggage on both Qantas and Virgin Australia.
I do hope you find our June edition informative and as always I appreciate any feedback you may have.
Sincerely,
Sarah Bush
Director
|
|
|
TTA ASSIST - ANNOUNCING CHILE!
 After the recent announcement that Qantas is now flying direct to Santiago, we have launched a TTA Assist number for this region.
'TTA Assist' enables our valued customers to contact us from key destinations around the world for the cost of a local call using the following numbers:
UK - London: 020 8133 5548
Hong Kong: 8197 5035
USA - New York: 646 652 8721
USA - Los Angeles: 323 284 6758
Germany - National: 02732 8104 295
SA - Johannesburg: 2711 0838 416
CHILE - Santiago: 2 897 9830 |
|
QANTAS TO INCREASE DOMESTIC CAPACITY IN 2012/13
The Qantas Group has announced it will increase capacity on domestic Qantas, Jetstar and QantasLink routes during 2012/13 to strengthen its network in the business and leisure markets.
A range of changes including aircraft upgrades and additional frequencies will be made to provide greater choice and convenience for customers:
- Qantas will add extra services during peak times on core east coast business routes between Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane.
- The reintroduction of Boeing 747 services on the Sydney-Perth route and more Airbus A330 services on the Melbourne-Perth route will increase capacity in the east-west market and give more customers access to the award-winning Skybed product in business class.
- Jetstar will increase capacity in its key leisure markets.
|
NEW DOMESTIC BUSINESS CHECKED BAGGAGE POLICY
 The checked baggage allowance for travel in Business on Qantas Domestic flights has now increased from one piece at 32kg to two pieces at 32kg.
New Domestic Checked Baggage Allowances:
|
|
EARN DOUBLE STATUS CREDITS ON ELIGIBLE QANTAS FLIGHTS
For a limited time Qantas is offering double status credits on all eligible International and Domestic Qantas flights when you register, book and travel from April through to June 2012. You can also book International flights for travel during August 2012.
To take advantage of this offer:
- Simply register and book by 30 June 2012
- Fly on any eligible Qantas International or Domestic flight (i.e. with a QF flight number on your ticket where status credits are normally earned) from April through to June 2012 as well as August 2012 for International travel.
|
|
BRITISH AIRWAYS' HOME HUB T5 VOTED WORLD'S BEST AIRPORT TERMINAL
 British Airways' home hub T5 has been voted the World's Best Airport Terminal by airline travellers at the World Airport Awards. Organised by independent survey company Skytrax, the awards are based on 12 million customer surveys completed over ten months covering 388 airports.
The architecture, ambience and terminal layout was repeatedly mentioned in the feedback in the survey, as well as the extensive range of shopping and dining options in the departures area. |
|
LONDON HEATHROW GETS READY FOR THE OLYMPICS
 Spectators, tourists and the athletes will swamp Heathrow airport with luggage and the number of bags is set to soar by around 20% on the day before the Olympics. This week saw a major dry run for the games in Terminal 5 with an extra 3000 bags dealt with by baggage handlers in just two hours which luckily went off without a hitch!
Airport staff have been put through their paces to ensure they are fully prepared for an enormous increase in the amount of baggage coming through the terminals. |
|
VIRGIN AUSTRALIA'S NEW CHECKED IN BAGGAGE ALLOWANCE
 Virgin Australia has changed its checked baggage policy from a weight system to a piece system.
The allowances outlined below refer to the piece-based baggage policy and apply to bookings that have been created or changed
on or after 16 May 2012.
A guest's checked baggage allowance is determined by the fare type booked and Velocity membership level, as set out in the table below:
|
BOEING DREAMLINER TOUCHES DOWN IN AUSTRALIA
The Boeing Dreamliner touched down in Sydney ahead of its 4-day Australian stay.
Jetstar will be the first Australian airline and the first low-cost carrier in the world to introduce the plane in 2013, followed by Qantas the following year.
The 350-seat Dreamliner is said to reduce the effects of jet lag and dehydration. More than half of the plane is built with carbon fibre material that doesn't corrode or fatigue like metal and is 15 per cent lighter than aluminium. This allows for the cabin to be pressurised to the equivalent of 1800m instead of 2400m, creates higher humidity and allows it to have larger windows.
|
THREE OF THE BEST
This month Bernadette Bligh, Senior Corporate Consultant, The Travel Authority Crows Nest presents her three of the best.
AIRLINE PRODUCT:
Emirates:
 I recently travelled to Dubai for a 4 day break and I flew on the Emirates Boeing 777-300ER. The Economy Class cabin was quite spacious and the seat was comfortable. They have a fantastic award winning entertainment program which offers 1200 channels, including up to date news from the BBC, the latest movies, TV shows old and new as well as video games, radio, podcasts and CD's - all on demand. If you are travelling with children this entertainment system will keep them well and truly occupied for the duration of the flight. You can also stay in touch with people, either on board the Aircraft or at home by phone, SMS or e-mail from your seat. The meals were tasty and varied and Economy Class passengers can also enjoy complimentary drinks inflight - including aperitifs, wines, spirits, beers and soft drinks. The cabin staff were constantly walking through the cabin offering water and fruit juice. If you are going to have your birthday on the day that you travel, they will especially prepare a birthday cake and serve it on board, you just need to let Emirates know in advance and it is free of charge. Emirates offer multiple daily flights from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth to Dubai with connections to 30 European Cities as well as to the USA.
DESTINATION:
Dubai:
 Whether you are looking for a true cultural experience, an adrenalin rush, great shopping, or just some quality time with the family, Dubai has a bit of everything to offer and the diversity of attractions, sightseeing and experiences will astound you.
There is Burj Khalifa - the tallest building in the World, Dubai Mall which not only has 1200 retail shops it also hosts The aquarium and underwater zoo, Ice Rink, Sega Republic and Kidzania. If you are water lovers, head out to Atlantis The Palm. Atlantis hosts the largest water park in the Middle east, set on 42 acres overflowing with fun, there is a Private beach, pools, rivers, a speed slide, rapids, ray feeding, snorkelling and swimming with the dolphins, towels and lockers are supplied. For something completely off the radar, Dubai has an indoor snow resort inside The Mall of the Emirates. You have to see it to believe it! There is a chairlift in a mountain themed setting, where you can ski, snow board, toboggan or just play in the snow. They even have a few penguins which are very cute.
A visit to Dubai is never complete without a Desert Safari at sunset. I did a fantastic tour with a company called Arabian Adventures. The adrenaline rush through the heady driving in a 4X4 vehicle is an exceptional experience. The tour includes dinner at a desert camp, Arabian musicians, belly dancers and camel rides.
If you are travelling to Europe, you should definitely consider flying with Emirates and having a stopover in Dubai. The city is very safe, and very clean. There is virtually no unemployment and the people are very respectful of others, I felt completely safe always and had a thoroughly enjoyable time.
HOTEL/RESORT:
Grosvenor House, Dubai
 I stayed at Grosvenor House which I would highly recommend. Within easy reach of business and leisure facilities it is situated in the heart of the Dubai Marina and an ideal base for exploring local attractions including The Mall of the Emirates. They have a sister property called Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort and Spa which is an absolute beachfront resort, approximately 10 minutes away and guests at Grosvenor House can enjoy all of the facilities at Le Meridien. There is a free shuttle which operates every 15 minutes between the two properties. The staff at both properties were very friendly and welcoming.
Stay tuned for next month's Three of The Best! |
| NEWS AND SPECIALS FROM THE EVENTS AUTHORITY |
LET THE LANGHAM MELBOURNE AND THE EVENTS AUTHORITY TICK ALL THE BOXES FOR YOUR NEXT MEETING!
 Please click here to see how the Langham can tick all your boxes!
The Langham Melbourne is the perfect location for your next Conference or Event. The hotel is known for its 5 star quality and they always go above and beyond customer expectation. It has great meeting facilities and offers excellent customer service.
For more information on organising an event please contact us. |
|
ENHANCED GROUP CHECK-IN AT SYDNEY INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
 Enhancements have been made to the group check-in process at Sydney International Airport for Qantas passengers.
These changes will improve the overall check-in experience for all group customers. Customers travelling as a group will have check-in available at Counter D. On arrival, group passengers will be met by airport staff and directed to the check-in area that will provide the quickest and most seamless check-in.
This improved check-in process will reduce queue wait times enabling customers more time to enjoy the airport, retail and lounge experience. Group organisers will be contacted 24 hours in advance of their flight by a member of the Qantas Airports Team with specific flight information and check-in counter details.
|
|
EXPERIENCE HONG KONG IN STYLE WITH THE HELP OF QANTAS
AND THIS AMAZING 2 FOR 1 BUSINESS FARE
INCLUDES TAXES AND FEES
SYDNEY - HONG KONG BUSINESS CLASS AIRFARE
From AUD$4515.96 per person
(Amex Points 451,596 per person)
Please contact us for further information.
*Conditions apply. Price quoted is per person. Seats on sale until 30 June 2012. Valid for travel to 31 August 2012. Seven (7) day advance purchase conditions apply. Two (2) guests MUST travel together on ALL sectors. |
|
QANTASLINK SALE
INCLUDES TAXES AND FEES
COFFS HARBOUR - SYDNEY
One Way From AUD$65 per person
(Amex Points 6,500 per person)
NEWCASTLE - BRISBANE
One Way From AUD$65 per person
(Amex Points 6,500 per person)
Please click here for other destinations.
Please contact us for further information.
*Conditions apply. Price quoted is per person. Seats on sale until 10 June 2012. Valid for travel from 01Dec12-22Dec12 and 16/01/13-30/04/13. Seats are limited. |
|
THE BEST EXOTIC MARIGOLD INDIA TOUR
INCLUDES TAXES AND FEES
You've seen the movie.... Now you can star in your own Bollywood Movie!
Fully escorted group departs: 21 September - 30 September
Tour Highlights:
- Star in your own Bollywood song sequence film, including private group dance lessons, with a professional film crew,
- Try your hand at painting an elephant and a safari with a skilled Mahout,
- Enjoy a lunch and afternoon G&T at the main hotel used in the movie,
- Greeted by a cascade of Rose Petals and painted elephants at the Jaipur City Palace, you will be treated to an exclusive dinner, dining at the priceless Lalique dining table,
- Explore the 300 year old narrow lane ways of Delhi's Chandni Chowk market and experience organised chaos which is quintessentially India,
- Experience the excitement and bustle of Indian rail system from Delhi to Agra,
- Sunrise and sunset visits to the magnificent Taj Mahal, the world's finest example of Mughal architecture and Agra Fort richly decorated with marble and mosaic,
- Private session of Laughter yoga! Sunset cruise on Lake Pichola, Udaipur.
Please click here for a full Itinerary.
From AUD$4,557 per person Twin Share (Single Supplement $730)
(Amex Points 455,700 per person)
Please contact us for further information.
*Conditions apply. Prices are per person, based on twin occupancy and does not include flights. |
|
CARNIVAL SPIRIT SOUTH PACIFIC SPECIAL CRUISE OFFER
INCLUDES TAXES AND FEES
EX SYDNEY
From AUD$1479.00 PER PERSON
BASED ON TWIN SHARE
(Amex Points 147,900 per person)
Cruises available over New Year's Eve, January School Holidays and Easter School Holidays! Australia's newest Fun Ship with great offerings for all the family!
Click here for further information.
Book by 30 June and receive a $50 on board credit p/person
Please contact us for further information.
*Conditions apply. Price quoted is per person based on twin share and includes taxes, surcharges and discounts. |
|
EXCLUSIVE ASIA OFFERS FROM 'TRAVEL INDOCHINA'
INCLUDES TAXES AND FEES
 Travel Indochina selected fully escorted small group journeys:
VIETNAM INSIGHT - 11 DAYS
From AUD$1,860 per person (twin share)
(Amex Points 186,000 per person)
LAOS & CAMBODIA EXPERIENCE - 14 DAYS
From AUD$2,980 per person (twin share)
(Amex Points 298,000 per person)
YANGTZE & BEYOND - 18 DAYS
From AUD$3,885 per person (twin share)
(Amex Points 388,500 per person)
BOOK NOW. OFFER ENDS 15 JUNE 2012 UNLESS SOLD OUT PRIOR.
Please contact us for further information.
*Conditions apply. Price quoted is per person based on twin occupancy and inclusive of taxes and fees. |
|
ANZAC DAY 2015 - 100 YEAR ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL EVENT
INCLUDES TAXES AND FEES
Limited spaces available on Eastern Eurotours and Mediterranean Holidays:
ANZAC TOUR VIA EDIRNE - 7 DAYS
From AUD$1,447 per person 
(Amex Points 144,700 per person)
ANZAC TOUR VIA EDIRNE AND BURSA - 10 DAYS
From AUD$2,476 per person
(Amex Points 247,600 per person)
Click here for dates, destinations and other tours!
DO NOT MISS OUT ON THIS SPECIAL EVENT. BOOK BY 30 JUNE THROUGH THE HOLIDAY AUTHORITY AND YOU WILL GO INTO THE DRAW TO WIN A $200 TRAVEL VOUCHER
Please contact us for further information.
*Conditions apply. Price quoted is per person and inclusive of taxes and fees. |
|
TAKE A FRIEND FOR FREE WITH STAR CRUISES
INCLUDES TAXES AND FEES FOR 1ST FULL PAYING PASSENGER
 Star Cruises is currently offering the opportunity to 'Take a friend for free'
with each full paying ticket purchased:
ALL CRUISES EX SINGAPORE
From AUD$688 per person (Twin Share)
(Amex Points 688,000 per person)
Passenger 2 pays Taxes Only
*Conditions apply. Prices are per person, twin share and inclusive of all taxes and fees for 1st full paying passenger. Offer ends 30 June 2012. |
|
THE CAPITAL AND THE LEVIN HOTEL, LONDON
3 NIGHT DOLLAR PACKAGE
SUBJECT TO TAXES AND FEES
 3 Night Dollar Package 2012 with the following inclusions:- 3 Nights' Accommodation
- Full English Breakfast
- Choice of Lunch, Afternoon Tea or Dinner
- Transfers
From AUD$1250 per person
(Amex Points 125,000 per person)
Click here for package details.
*Conditions apply. Prices are per person, and rates are exclusive of VAT and 5% discretionary service charge. |
|
SHANGRI-LA SINGAPORE UNVEILS ITS NEW GARDEN WING -
SPECIAL INTRODUCTORY RATE
 Set in peaceful surroundings amidst 15 acres of lush tropical gardens, the newly-renovated Garden Wing in Shangri-La Hotel, Singapore has nature-inspired guestrooms with bougainvillea-laden balconies. Three Premier Balcony Rooms have large wraparound balconies with a private outdoor Jacuzzi and barbecue area.
A new dining concept will be launched in July, featuring healthy dishes. Singapore's first CHI, The Spa, featuring seven treatment rooms will also be unveiled in August.
From AUD$395 per person
(Amex Points 395,000 per person)
*Conditions apply. VAT & service charge additional. |
|
CLUB MED SPECIALS
UP TO 40% OFF*
 Club Med all inclusive holidays include:
- All Meals
- All alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks
- Entertainment
- Activities
Please contact us for a quote and/or further information.
*Conditions apply. Sale date and travel date restrictions apply. |
|
|
|
|
DOUBLE THE HAPPINESS WITH THIS 2 FOR 1 PREMIUM ECONOMY
FARE FROM CATHAY PACIFIC
INCLUDES TAXES AND FEES
Cathay Pacific is excited to introduce the new Premium Economy Experience. In addition to an entirely new seat and entertainment system, Premium Economy is an all-round experience designed to make passengers feel special.
On the ground, you will appreciate the dedicated check-in counters, additional baggage allowance, and priority boarding.
In the air, you will enjoy a comfortable seat, enhanced catering, better entertainment, and even more of Cathay Pacific's renowned personal service, all in a spacious and cosy cabin that features 28 seats.
It's the perfect choice when you are looking for added value and comfort.
Cathay Pacific's Premium Economy Class is now available on selected flights from Sydney to Hong Kong, and will be progressively introduced across Australian ports throughout 2012.
SYDNEY TO LONDON
PREMIUM ECONOMY
From AUD$3362.72 per person
(Amex Points 336,272 per person)
*Conditions apply. Seats on sale until 30 June 2012 unless sold out prior. Valid for travel from 01Aug12-31Dec12. Fare based on low season departure. |
|
CALL US TODAY ON 1300 WE KNOW (935 669) | |
OUR MEMBERSHIPS
QANTAS PLATINUM MEMBER
We are one of the top 100 agents in Australia with buying power from Travelscene American Express.
|
|
|
|
|
|
