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13 February 2014 |
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SPECIAL OFFERS
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ATLAS NEWSLETTER
Dear Atlas Subscriber,
Welcome to the February edition of Atlas.
I'm pleased to inform you of some amazing savings on a variety of airlines across all cabins to many destinations. British Airways have reintroduced their very popular "upgrade" fare which now includes a one way limousine transfer too. Thai International have some great business class airfares on sale to more than 50 destinations. Also on offer is Qantas' last minute companion fare sale in economy class just in time for Valentine's day.
Our very own Maike has submitted her "Three of the Best" article this month offering tips and insights on an array of suppliers and destinations.
Finally, whether you are thinking about skiing, cruising or relaxing on a tropical island we are able to bring you some great packages with prices to match for that perfect holiday you have always dreamed of.
As always, I appreciate any feedback you may have.
Sincerely,
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QANTAS MOST ON TIME DOMESTIC AIRLINE FOR 2013
Qantas led the domestic airline market every month in both on-time arrivals and departures in 2013.
This is the first time that Qantas or any other airline has been the most on time airline for 12 out of 12 months and is the fifth year in a row Qantas has recorded the best results.
Qantas Domestic chief executive Lyell Strambi said strong on-time performance results were a contributing factor to Qantas Domestic's strong customer satisfaction levels.
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VIRGIN ATLANTIC TO WITHDRAW OPERATIONS EX SYDNEY
Virgin Atlantic announced its intention to withdraw operations between Sydney and Hong Kong effective from the 5th of May 2014. The decision to axe Sydney is due to external factors beyond the airline's control such as rising costs, a challenging economic environment and the weakening Australian Dollar. Virgin Atlantic's last flight from Sydney to Hong Kong will be on 05 May 2014.
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BRITISH AIRWAYS IS HERE TO STAY
 British Airways has confirmed it has no intention of axing its Australian flights and pulling out of the historic Kangaroo Route between Sydney and London. This will leave British Airways as the sole European carrier operating to Australia. British Airways states that it has a long and proud history of servicing Australia, it is committed to the Australian market and has been for nearly 80 years.
The airline had to fend off similar rumours in 2012 when Qantas announced the Qantas-British Airways joint venture for flights to London via Singapore would be dissolved in favour of Qantas' alliance with Emirates, which saw Qantas' European transit point shift to Dubai.
Not only did British Airways continue flying the Sydney-Singapore-London route it also began a codeshare partnership with Cathay Pacific from flights out of Australia to hook up to the airline's two daily Hong Kong-London flights. Passengers on British Airway's codeshared Cathay Pacific flights may stopover in Hong Kong before continuing to London.
To celebrate the good news we have some fantastic British Airways fares in this edition.
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NEW ETIHAD REGIONAL AIRCRAFT
 Etihad Airways' newest ploy for the business traveller is the upscale Etihad Regional airline. The Swiss-based operation will use its fleet of ten nimble 50-seat Saab 2000 turbo-prop aircraft to lay out a new network map across Europe. This new network is offering Etihad passengers direct connections to dozens of major cities served by Etihad such as Amsterdam, Paris, Dusseldorf plus the hubs of siblings Air Berlin and Air Serbia. These new connections plus codesharing with Etihad will allow European travellers to connect from a wider range of European towns and cities on Etihad-branded aircraft.
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THREE OF THE BEST
This month Maike Landenberger from our Sales and Marketing department in our Crows Nest, NSW office presents her Three of the Best.
Airline Product: CHINA SOUTHERN AIRLINES  Flying China Southern to London via their hub Guangzhou, I was fortunate enough to experience all cabins on my trip. Economy Class seats are all equipped with a private LCD touch screen in each backseat, giving passengers the choice to watch Western or Chinese movies and entertainment. Passengers in Premium Economy can enjoy new seats with up to 40% more leg space, an exclusive check-in counter, priority baggage delivery, priority boarding and additional snacks onboard. Business Class passengers can relax in angled lie flat beds throughout their journey and enjoy movies on a 15-inch personal video screen with audio and video on demand and noise-cancelling headphones. Destination: SCOTLAND, UK  Christmas time in Edinburgh is magical. We only spent 4 days in Edinburgh and Scotland but everywhere we looked, we discovered something magical. We hired a car for 2 days to explore as much of Scotland as possible. Destinations on our list were Inverness, Loch Ness, Stirling and St Andrews.
It takes approximately three hours drive on the motorway from Edinburgh to Loch Ness, however we decided to leave the motorway and follow the scenic route or admittedly the Whiskey Trail! The landscape is breathtaking and throughout the journey we were accompanied by sunshine, a snowstorm and rain. The only thing we weren't aware of was that in winter time in Scotland it's pitch black by 3.30pm and without the slightest glimpse of the lake or Nessi we turned around to drive back to Edinburgh. The next day we drove along the coast to St Andrews and then back to Stirling. On our way to St Andrews we passed through some typical Scottish coastal villages and once again the landscape was breathtaking but very diverse compared to the previous day. A must see in St Andrews is the world famous and prestigious St Andrews Golf Course whilst Stirling showcased Stirling Castle and the William Wallace Monument. The street that leads up to the castle is very steep, but the view over Stirling and its former battlefields is worth every penny. From the top of the William Wallace Monument you have great views of Glasgow 40km away and cries of Freedom can be heard from every nearby Scottish pub. Hotel/ Resort: HOTEL BRUNELLESCHI, FLORENCE, ITALY  The hidden gem of Florence is the 4 Star Brunelleschi Hotel in the centre of Florence where culture, mystery, trade and religion are joined together to create a very unique experience. As our taxi neared Florence, the beautiful city emerged before us, tiny lanes appeared narrower by towering overhead buildings and palaces. As the taxi finally squeezed through another lane we suddenly appeared outside the magnificent Brunelleschi Hotel.
This 4 Star hotel is perfect for business and leisure travellers alike. The staff are really friendly and accommodating, room sizes are generous with contemporary furnishings. The Executive Deluxe Room gives you a 360 degree view over the heart of Florence including San Lorenzo, Santa Maria del Fiore, the Giotto Tower, The Brunelleschi's Cupola, Palazzo Vecchio, Fiesole and the Piazzale Michelangelo. All attractions are within walking distance and to get your daily dish of Luigi's pizza you don't have to go far. Tourist attractions are everywhere you go in Florence yet the city is old and authentic and there is no sign of commercialisation.
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VIRGIN AUSTRALIA INTRODUCES COMPLIMENTARY ALL DAY SNACK MENU
 Virgin Australia are offering complimentary refreshments on all flights between Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane. Beverages offered will include tea, coffee, water and juice. A selection of additional items will also be available for purchase from the menu on-board. Passengers travelling between 4pm and 7pm on weekdays on all flights between mainland capital cities and other selected routes have the choice between complimentary soft drinks, beer and wine.
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BE REWARDED ON QANTAS CLASSIC AWARD FLIGHTS
Redeeming a Qantas International Classic Award flight has never been more rewarding! Register and book before 28 February 2014 for travel before 31 March 2014 to receive up to 24,000 Qantas Points back on eligible flights. Let your points take you even further in 2014! Please click here for more information.
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VALENTINE'S DAY SALE TO EUROPE WITH QANTAS COMPANION FARES
TAXES AND FEES INCLUDED
SYDNEY - DUBLIN
From $1678.00* per person
(Amex Points 167,800** per person)
SYDNEY - AMSTERDAM
From $1703.00* per person
(Amex Points 170,300** per person)
SYDNEY - ZURICH
From $1706.00* per person
(Amex points 170,600** per person)
SYDNEY - PARIS
From $1745.00* per person
(Amex points 174,500** per person)
Please contact us for more destinations
*Conditions apply: Economy return airfares. Sales ends 14 February 2014. For travel until 31 March 2014. Two or more passengers must travel together on the same itinerary.
**Higher Amex Membership Reward points apply to Business Ascent tier and David Jones Cards only.
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THAI AIRWAYS "SEE THAI'S WORLD" BUSINESS CLASS FARES
TAXES AND FEES INCLUDED
SYDNEY - BANGKOK  From $3605.36* per person (Amex Points 360,536** per person) SYDNEY - PARIS From $6302.56* per person (Amex Points 6302.56** per person) SYDNEY - LOS ANGELES From $6889.56* per person (Amex points 688,956** per person) Fares are also available ex Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth (taxes may differ) Please contact us for more destinations *Conditions apply: Fares are on sale until 28 March 2014 for departures until 31 October 2014. **Higher Amex Membership Reward points apply to Business Ascent tier and David Jones Cards only. |
BRITISH AIRWAYS - BUY BUSINESS GET A FREE UPGRADE TO FIRST IN ONE DIRECTION
TAXES AND FEES INCLUDED
British Airways passengers will receive First Class Chauffeur service in Sydney on the sector that they travel in First Class which would be either on arrival or departure.
SYDNEY - SINGAPORE
From $3791.36* per person
(Amex Points 379,136** per person)
SYDNEY - LONDON
From $7853.56* per person
(Amex Points 785,356** per person)
Please contact us for more information.
* Conditions apply: Return airfares. Sales & Ticketing until 17 February 2014. For departures from 01 March 2014 until 30 June 2014.
**Higher Amex Membership Reward points apply to Business Ascent tier and David Jones Cards only.
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CLUB MED SNOW - ALL YOU NEED TO DO IS ENJOY!
BOOK BY 26 JUNE 2014 AND SAVE UP TO 30% AT ASIAN RESORTS AND UP TO 15% AT EUROPEAN RESORTS
VAL D'ISERE, FRANCE
7 NIGHT LAND PACKAGE
From $2089.00* per adult
$1625.00* per child
(Amex Points 208,900** per adult)
(Amex Points 162,500** per child)
SAHORO, JAPAN
7 NIGHT LAND PACKAGES
From $1899.00* per adult
$1105.00* per child
(Amex Points 189,900** per adult)
(Amex Points 110,500** per child)
PRAGELATO VIALATTEA, ITALY
7 NIGHT LAND PACKAGE
From $2029.00* per adult
$1575.00* per child
(Amex Points 202,900** per person)
(Amex Points 157,500** per child)
Your all inclusive Ski Package includes:
- Gourmet meals prepared by international chefs
- Mountain and Specialty restaurant meals
- All day snacking, open bar, tea and coffee
- Ski passes and lessons with accredited instructors
- Kids Club
- Stylish Resorts and atmosphere
- Outdoor/Indoor heated pools and Turkish baths
- Range of activities from snowshoeing to sledding
Pre-register for travel departures from November 2014 to April 2015 for Club Med's Early Booking Bonus by clicking here, and one of our experienced Travel Consultants will be in touch when sales open.
Please click here for more information.
* Conditions apply: Snow Holidays Early Booking Bonus is valid for new bookings by Australian residents only and is subject to availability and may change without notice. Minimum 5 nights consecutive stay required for Japan and China and minimum 7 nights consecutive stay required for European resorts. Promotion for sale until 26 June 2014 for 1st Early Booking Bonus period and until 18 September 2014 for 2nd Early Booking Bonus period. Ski season is open for travel from 1 December 2014 - 20 April 2015, with some variations depending on Resort and altitude. Prices advertised are based on departure date 10 January 2015. Prices and promotion may vary for stays overlapping two travel periods. Prices advertised are based on Adults (12+) and Children (4-11) Twin Share in a Superior Room non-connecting (Asia) or Club Room non-connecting (Europe). Blackout dates may apply. Offer not valid for Group travel or in conjunction with any other offer. Local transfers not included in price but available for pre-booking. Offer subject to quota per date of departure and to removal without notice once reached. Ski lessons for children (4-11 years) only included at Resorts offering children's clubs for their respective age group. Resort not offering Mini Club only offer ski lessons for adult 12+. Ski equipment rental not included, rental may be available for pre-booking. Ski lessons included for 5 days and ski pass valid for 6 days starting the day after arrival. All prices include membership of $60 per adult 12 yrs and over.
**Higher Amex Membership Reward points apply to Business Ascent tier and David Jones Cards only.
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2014 PARIS & NORMANDY RIVER CRUISES
This year marks the 70th anniversary of D-Day in Normandy and Boutique River Cruises offers savings up to $1925.00 per person on this cruise on selected 2014 departures.
PARIS AND NORMANDY
8 DAY PARIS TO PARIS CRUISE
From $3749.00* per person
(Amex Points 374,900** per person)
This cruise includes visits to:
- Normandy Beaches
- D-Day Museum
- Juno Beach Centre
- Wreath Laying Ceremony at the American Cemetery and Memorial near Omaha Beach
*Conditions apply: Offer expires 28 February 2014. Valid for 16, 23 & 30 March 2014 Cruises. Subject to availability. Savings listed in AUS dollars. Early Booking Savings is not combinable with Pay-in-Full Savings, Single Supplement Waived, or other public promotional offers. Savings requires a deposit of $250 per person at time of reservation. Capacity controlled. Other restrictions may apply. Uniworld reserves the right to withdraw or change offers at any time.
**Higher Amex Member Reward points apply to Business Ascent tier and David Jones Cards only.
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VOYAGES TO ANTIQUITY FLY FREE - GRAND VOYAGE FROM COLOMBO TO BALI
Whilst on board the Aegean Odyssey, sail from the enchanting Sri Lankan capital Colombo to the serene islands of Indonesia. En route to Bali, you will explore Burma, Malaysia, Phuket and Singapore.
GRAND VOYAGE FROM COLOMBO TO BALI
35 DAYS - DEPARTS 5 JANUARY 2015
From $10,950.00* per adult/ twin share
(Amex Points 1,095,000** per person)
This Cruise includes:
- FREE return economy class flights from Australia
- 2 Night hotel stay in Colombo
- 3 Night hotel stay in Bali
- All meals while onboard the Aegean Odyssey
- Selected beer, wine and soft drinks while onboard
- Comprehensive shore excursions
- Expert guest speakers and lecture programs
- Complimentary airport transfer
- Onboard gratuities, port charges and taxes
Please contact us for more information.
*Conditions apply: For sale until 28 February 2014 unless sold out prior or offer is withdrawn. Fares include all promotional savings, air taxes, port charges, government fees, on-board gratuities and remain subject to availability. Fly/cruise fares are based on economy class air, specific airlines, routings and departure dates/airports. Included transfers are provided only in conjunction with arrival and departure by air on dates of cruise tours. Cancellations and other penalties apply. Voyages to Antiquity & Cruise Traveller reserve the right to change, correct errors, withdraw from sale any or all fares, itineraries and fees.
**Higher Amex Member Reward points apply to Business Ascent tier and David Jones Cards only.
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VANUATU - WARWICK LE LAGON RESORT AND SPA
STAY 7 NIGHTS PAY 4 NIGHTS SPECIAL
From $1219.00* per adult
$199.00* per child
(Amex points 121,900** per person)
(Amex Points19,900** per child)
This package includes:
- Return economy class airfares with Air Vanuatu
- Breakfast daily
- Airport transfers
- Kids under 13 years stay, play and eat free
- Port Villa and Environs tour
- Complimentary use of non-motorised water sports and daily activities program
- Upgrade for $199.00 per person to a Lagoon Superior Room and receive a Hideaway day trip with lunch and snorkeling
Please contact us for further information.
*Conditions apply: Book by 31 March 2014. For travel ex Sydney,/Brisbane/ Adelaide/ Perth from 22 April 2014 until 28 June 2014, 8 July 2014 until 20 September 2014 and 30 September 2014 until 30 November 2014. Ex Melbourne from 03- 24 April 2014, 05-25June 2014, 04 July 2014 until 17 September 2014 and 26 September 2014 until 23 October 2014.
**Higher Amex Member Reward points apply to Business Ascent tier and David Jones Cards only.
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