In this video, Mat McLachlan explains the region of Hauts-de-France (northern France), highlighting what to see in this fascinating destination just 1.5 hours north of Paris, where to go, what to expect when you get there and where to stay.

For the chance to win one of three bottles of French champagne, coasters and Mat McLachlan’s Western Front guidebook, in this agent-only competition, watch the video and email your answer to one of the below questions to jess@mclachlantours.com.au by Monday 23 September 2024. Winners will be announced on Tuesday 24 September 2024. Answer both questions to receive a bonus entry!

Questions: 

1. Where would you most likely accommodate travellers to explore the Australian battlefields of northern France?
2. What 4-day tour allows you to explore the Australian battlefields of the Western Front, with weekly departures April to November?

Email your answers to jess@mclachlantours.com.au 

Video contents and timecode:

• 1:00: Introducing Hauts-de-France and the Somme
• 4:00: How do I get there, and where can I stay?
• 6:00: Australian WWI battlefields in northern France (map)
• 7:30: Introduction to the Somme
• 11:00: Pozieres – history and what to see today (memorials, Le Tommy’s Café)
• 19:00: The Sunken Lane and Hawthorne Ridge Crater – original video footage from WWI
• 21:00: Newfoundland Memorial Park, a full trench system and no-man’s land
• 23:30: Thiepvel Memorial to the Missing
• 26:00: Villers-Bretonneux – Anzac Day Dawn Service, Australian National Memorial, Sir John Monash Centre
• 30:00: Hamel
• 31:30: The underground tunnels of Naours with original Anzac WWI graffiti
• 33:30:  The village of Vignacourt, with its photographic museum and emotive cemetery
• 35:30: Amiens, where Jules Verne came from, spectacular Cathedral, restaurants, shops, accommodation, floating gardens
• 37:30: Organised tours to the battlefields
• 39:30: Fromelles

For more information about visiting the Australian battlefields of northern France and the Western Front, and to view full itineraries of commissionable tours to book your clients on, visit: www.battlefields.com.au

For more information about the destination of Hauts-de-France, email Dana your Hauts de France representative based in Sydney dana@jiggleconcepts.com or visit: https://www.hautsdefrancetourism.com/

The post Agent competition: Win a bottle of French champagne appeared first on TravelTalk.

Fang Bao, owner of AUSA Travel in Sydney, scooped the grand prize in the Expedition Big 5 promotion from Lindblad Expeditions.

The incentive rewarded travel advisors with the chance to win an expedition to one of five destinations: Alaska, The Arctic, Australia, the Galápagos Islands, or Costa Rica.

For every Lindblad Expedition sold during the promotional period (July 12, 2023 – May 31, 2024), advisors received an entry into the draw.

Additionally, advisors who completed the Expedition360 online training program received additional entries.

“We are delighted with the response from travel advisors across Australia who promoted and booked their clients with confidence onto Lindblad Expeditions ships,” said Andrew Eddy, Head of Sales Australia and New Zealand at Lindblad Expeditions.

“This promotion was a way to express our gratitude to our valued travel advisor community, and we are thrilled that Fang Bao from AUSA Travel will have the opportunity to experience the wonders of Antarctica onboard Lindblad Expeditions.”

www.expeditions.com

The post Did you win a trip to Antarctica? appeared first on TravelTalk.

The event will offer an in-depth look at the 2025 itineraries to Japan and other information from MSC Cruises.

The webinar is scheduled for September 11 over two sessions at 8:30am and 12:30pm (AEST).

The 20-minute broadcast, followed by a five-minute interactive Q&A session, is designed to provide travel partners with comprehensive insights into the popular destinations of the Far East and top selling itineraries.

Japan and the Far East have never been more on-trend and this is an opportunity to learn what is selling well and why cruise is a great way to see this region.

Travel agents are invited to register in advance here Registrants will receive a confirmation email with details on how to join the webinar at their preferred session time.

“At MSC Cruises, we are committed to providing our travel partners with the tools and knowledge they need to excel in their roles and this deep dive into Japan is another way to equip our agents,” said Brigita Devries, Sales Manager at MSC Cruises, Australia & New Zealand.

The MSC fleet consists of 22 ships with three new vessels due to be launched in 2025, 2026 and 2027. The company operates in more than 100 countries around the world, offering cruises across five continents, calling at more than 300 destinations and welcoming more than 180 different nationalities on board.

https://www.msccruises.com.au/

The post Webinar offers deep dive into hot destinations appeared first on TravelTalk.

As per this year, events will take place in Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane, but with new venues for each city and an expanded range of exhibitors.

With a revised format and even more world-class exhibitors, the event is set to dominate the travel industry calendar in February and agents are encouraged to save the (now confirmed) dates or risk missing out.

Melbourne will kick off the three-city tour on February 11 at the Sofitel, followed by Sydney (February 12) at The Fullerton Hotel and Brisbane (February 13) at Rydges South Bank Brisbane.

Next year’s events will see supplier booths operating from 4:30pm to 6:45pm, followed by food, music and presentations – along with a host of travel prizes – between 7pm and 8:30pm.

Sales and Marketing Director Greg McCallum says numbers will once again be limited for each event.

“So please make a note of the dates and be sure to move quickly once we open registrations in December,” says McCallum.

More information on Entire Travel Group is available here.

The post Get in quick for the Entire Travel Showcase appeared first on TravelTalk.

This incentive offers you the chance to experience the beauty, culture, and aloha spirit of Hawai‘i firsthand. You’ll fly with Hawaiian Airlines, the flagship carrier of the Hawaiian Islands, and gain invaluable insights to share with your clients.

FAM Trip Details:

• Participants: 6 agents from Australia, 2 agents from New Zealand
• Dates: 16 – 23 November 2024
• Destination: Islands of Oʻahu and Kauaʻi

How to Win a Spot:

Step 1: Book

• Make a Hawaiian Airlines booking from Sydney or Auckland to Honolulu, Hawai’i between 2 September and 31 October 2024, for travel from now onwards.

Step 2: Submit Your Entry

• Email your booking details to au-sales@hawaiianair.com or nz-sales@hawaiianair.com. Please include your PNR details.
• In 50 words or less, share why you deserve a spot on this exclusive FAM trip.
• Even one flight booking qualifies you for a chance to win, but there’s no limit on the number of entries—enter as many times as you like!

Please ensure you are available to travel from 16 – 23 November 2024.

For additional information or questions, please contact Anna Riedel, PR & Trade Account Manager at Hawai‘i Tourism Oceania: ariedel@hawaiitourism.com.au.

The post Win a spot on an exclusive famil trip to Hawai‘i appeared first on TravelTalk.

The lucky winners included agents from Flight Centre, ITA Network and Eclipse Travel who have been booking their hearts out since January in hopes of earning a ticket to the hottest concert of the decade. In total, 75 top sellers from across the globe will be dancing it out in three different cities this year as part of G Adventures’ global You Belong With G Experience.

Kate Hudson, global purpose specialist for G Adventures, who hosted the agents in London, says it was an incredible experience to creatively reward the company’s top selling and most deserving travel agents from Australia and New Zealand.

“Being together at the Taylor Swift Eras tour in London was an unforgettable experience for all of us. After three days exploring London we joined 92 thousand other Swifties for a night to remember. Amongst the whole crowd I can say for certain we were the loudest, and had the most style. We’re all about community here at G Adventures, and this sense of belonging was brought to life for each one of us through this shared experience,” says Hudson.

Recognising the same sense of community and camaraderie in Taylor Swift’s fan base as G Adventures’ own community of agents and travellers, tickets were awarded to the top sellers in each of G Adventures’ key markets. There were also five extra global wildcard tickets handed out to entrants who demonstrated why they also ‘Belong with G’. 

Sean Martin, managing director for Australia and New Zealand at G Adventures added: “We are incredibly proud of the winning agents and their dedication to sharing our vision of changing lives through travel. Rewarding their hard work with tickets to The Eras Tour is our way of saying thank you for their continued commitment to making travel a force for good. We’re constantly looking at innovative new ways to incentivise our agents and have them share our community spirit beyond the traditional fam trip, and the You Belong with G Experience did just that.”

To keep up to date with the further promotions and incentives, agents are encouraged to join G Adventures’ ‘Agents of Change Facebook’ group.

The post You belong with G! Australia/NZ agents rewarded in London appeared first on TravelTalk.

The post Intrepid Travel announces winners of exclusive Antarctica incentive appeared first on TravelTalk.

Now, there’s a chance for you take the podium yourself with a chance to win a voucher with its own French connection.

As a travel advisors, you know that finding the perfect destination for your clients is key to delivering unforgettable experiences.

That is why Atout France is excited to invite you to an exclusive webinar featuring ten of France’s most captivating destinations, each presented by the French Promotion Manager of the respective destination.

These expert speakers will provide unique insights and updates that can help you craft the ultimate French getaway for your clients.

From the north to the south, discover regions, cities and experiences, and have the chance to win one of TEN $100 France at Home gift vouchers!

The webinar will take place on 03 September from 4pm to 5 pm (AEST).

Register now here

SolLewitt at the Musee Picardie in Amiens ©Ludovic Maisant

Amiens, a gem in the Hauts-de-France region, is a city that continuously surprises visitors with its blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.

Imagine the awe-inspiring sight of the world’s largest Gothic cathedral, the Cathédrale Notre-Dame d’Amiens, illuminated by a stunning chroma show.

Beyond the cathedral, Amiens offers unique attractions such as the Floating Vegetable Gardens (Les Hortillonnages), a peaceful maze of waterways perfect for exploration.

History buffs will appreciate the Australian Garden of Peace and the ANZAC Day Remembrance circuit, which honour the deep connections between France and Australia.

During the webinar, Amiens will highlight these attractions and provide insights into how this city can offer something memorable for every type of traveller.

Avignon: A Historic and Cultural Marvel ©Ludovic Maisant

Step into the heart of Provence and discover Avignon, a city brimming with exceptional history, culture, and Provençal charm.

Behind its ancient stone walls lies a treasure trove of UNESCO-listed sites, including the stunning Palais des Papes.

The webinar will delve into Avignon’s main attractions, including a comprehensive look at the city’s accommodation options, ensuring your clients experience the best of this iconic Provence city.

Hauts-de-France: A Blend of Urban and Rural Delights. Here Chateau de Chantilly ©CRT Hauts-de-France Nicolas Bryant

Hauts-de-France is a vibrant region that was formed in 2016 through the merger of the former regions of Nord-Pas-de-Calais and Picardy.

Known for its rich history, diverse landscapes, and cultural heritage, Hauts-de-France offers a unique blend of urban and rural experiences.

During the webinar, you will learn about the Australian Remembrance Trail and other highlights that make this region a must-visit. 

Since 2005, Ophorus has been creating unforgettable travel experiences across France, offering small-group private and shared tours led by expert local guides.

During the webinar, Ophorus will present the regions they cover, and share details on their new destinations.

You will also learn about the wide range of services they offer, from custom itineraries to special interest tours, ensuring your clients receive a truly tailored travel experience.

Marseille: The Booming Capital of Provence. Above are the Calanque de Sugiton ©joOMTCM

Marseille, the dynamic capital of Provence, is a city with 2,600 years of history and a renewed spirit.

Recent years have seen the opening of numerous cultural sites and luxury hotels, making Marseille an attractive destination for travellers seeking both authenticity and modern comfort. During the webinar, Marseille will introduce its new amenities, its commitment to sustainable tourism, and the special tours organised by its new incoming service.

Dijon : A Gastronomic and Cultural Capital. Above is the Place de la Liberté ©Vargas

Dijon, the capital of Burgundy, is a city that embodies the French art of living.

Known for its rich history, heritage, and world-famous wines, Dijon is a destination that delights the senses.

Whether your clients are interested in exploring its UNESCO-listed sites, indulging in its gastronomic delights, or simply enjoying the beauty of its streets, Dijon offers a wealth of experiences.

The webinar will highlight Dijon’s ease of access, its culinary and cultural offerings, and some of the unique experiences that make it a standout destination.

Nice Côte d’Azur: A Year-Round Riviera Destination @J.kelagopian OTM NCA

Nice Côte d’Azur is a small world unto itself, with 300 days of sunshine, stunning landscapes, and a rich history that dates back to 400,000 BC.

Whether your clients are seeking cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, or simply a taste of the Mediterranean lifestyle, Nice has it all.

The webinar will showcase the best times to visit, the top cultural and heritage sites, and what makes Nice a year-round playground for travellers.

Explore Nîmes: A Blend of Roman History and Modern Culture © Valentin Pacaut / The Explorers

Nîmes is a city where Roman history comes alive. Known for its well-preserved architecture and lively atmosphere, Nîmes offers a blend of ancient and modern experiences that will captivate history lovers and city explorers alike.

The webinar will explore the city’s historical monuments and vibrant culture.

Antibes Juan-les-Pins: The Hidden Gem of the French Riviera ©Mary Quincy

Antibes Juan- les-Pins is a city that offers the perfect mix of charm, culture, and coastal beauty.

From its narrow streets and the Picasso Museum to the impressive Port Vauban, Antibes is a must-visit on the French Riviera.

The webinar will highlight the many unique offerings of this picturesque destination.

Grand Est: A Cultural Treasure Trove

The Grand Est region is a cultural hub, home to eight UNESCO World Heritage sites.

From the medieval towns of Alsace to the royal squares of Lorraine and the magnificent sites of Champagne-Ardenne, the Grand Est offers a rich tapestry of experiences.

The webinar will delve into the cultural highlights that make this region a must-visit.

Mark your calendar: 03 September from 4pm to 5 pm (AEST)

Register Now HERE

Register to our France Digital Roadshow.  If you can’t attend, pas de probleme, register to receive the recording of the webinar.

A bientot! See you soon!

• www.explore-grandest.com
• www.marseille-tourisme.com
• www.antibesjuanlespins.com
• www.explorenicecotedazur.com
• www.hautsdefrancetourism.com
• www.nimes-tourisme.com
• www.visit-amiens.com
• www.destinationdijon.com
• www.avignon-tourisme.com
• www.ophorus.com

To help you design unique French itineraries, ask Marianne here: https://marianne.france.fr/guide or explore www.france.fr/en/

The post Discover the secrets of France: A must-attend webinar for travel agents appeared first on TravelTalk.

Watch & Win

Switzerland Tourism has teamed up with Destination Webinars for a live monthly webinar series, bringing you the opportunity to explore the regions of Switzerland and all that this magnificent country offers your clients.

Over the next four months, Sandra Babey from Switzerland Tourism will be joined by in-destination presenters as well as the local team at Holidays on Location, who will lead you through the incredible experiences to be had in Switzerland and how to book them. 

Discover hidden gems on the panoramic train network, from majestic peaks, breathtaking alpine meadows, picturesque mountain villages and some of the most magical places to enjoy the festive season. Gain insights to create exceptional and unique itineraries for your clients, ensuring they experience the very best of Switzerland. 

Each session runs for 30 minutes, plus live Q&A, and gives you a chance to win a $100 gift card (4 sessions = 4 chances to win), and there’ll be some fun spot prizes along the way!

Wednesday 21st August @ 4pm AEST: 

Switzerland #1: All About Trains

Register here

Do you wish you could sell rail in Switzerland with more confidence?

Come and learn the difference between a panoramic train and a regular service, when to recommend a Swiss Travel Pass, and when a rail route is actually part train and part boat! Plus, practical information on how to book stunning personalised rail itineraries for your clients. 

With an expert panel, including Andy Nef from Travel Switzerland, live from Zurich, this session is set to solve your Swiss rail dilemmas with handy tips and personal insights. 

Bring your Swiss train questions to put our panel to the test!

Wednesday 18th September @ 4pm AEST: 

Switzerland #2: A Panoramic Journey featuring Montreux, Lucerne and the Region of Ticino

Register here 

Are your clients keen to get off the beaten track?

Learn about three panoramic trains you probably don’t know about (but your clients will love).

Journey through three distinct language regions of Switzerland, linked by some hidden gems on the panoramic train network. Starting in Montreux, nestled on the shores of Lake Geneva, travel to charming Lucerne, the gateway to the Alps, then descend to the picturesque Italian-speaking region of Ticino. 

This session will deepen your understanding of panoramic trains and showcase some of Switzerland’s most enchanting destinations. You’ll gain the insight needed to create exceptional and unique itineraries for your clients, ensuring they experience the very best of Switzerland.

Wednesday 9th October @ 4pm AEST:

Switzerland #3: The Jungfrau Region – Switzerland’s Alpine Wonderland

Register here

Are the mountains calling?

The Jungfrau Region, with its awe-inspiring beauty, is a must-visit destination in Switzerland. Dominated by majestic peaks, this area offers breathtaking alpine meadows and picturesque mountain villages such as Grindelwald, Lauterbrunnen, and Mürren. 

Known as Switzerland’s adventure capital, it promises a wealth of exciting experiences surrounded by some of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes. 

This session will give you insider tips and help you recommend where to stay and which mountain excursions to prioritise to make the most of a visit to the Jungfrau Region.

Wednesday 13th November @ 4pm AEST:

Switzerland #4: Winter Experiences and Christmas Markets in Switzerland

Register here

Is a magical ‘White Christmas’ on the bucket list?

With snow-capped peaks and over one hundred Christmas markets and experiences, Switzerland is the most magical place to enjoy the festive season. 

From Zurich to Basel and many other locations in between, the panel of experts will share their favourite Christmas experiences as well as tips on travelling in winter to help you sell this wonderful season in Switzerland.

Register Now

Register for all four webinars, if you can’t attend them all live, the recordings will be sent to you afterwards.

Switzerland #1: All About Trains

Switzerland #2: A Panoramic Journey featuring Montreux, Lucerne and the Region of Ticino

Switzerland #3: The Jungfrau Region – Switzerland’s Alpine Wonderland

Switzerland #4: Winter Experiences and Christmas Markets in Switzerland

Enjoy the series and good luck!

If you want to get ahead of the first session and kick-start your knowledge on trains in Switzerland, complete the Swiss Travel System Excellence E-Learning Program.

For more information to help you design the ultimate Switzerland itinerary visit www.myswitzerland.com 

Brought to you by Switzerland Tourism

The post Agents! Learn and WIN with a NEW Live Switzerland Webinar Series appeared first on TravelTalk.

Scores of travel agents gathered at the event to hear from various South Pacific destinations and operators on the impressive recovery the region has made post-COVID.

Speaking exclusively to Traveltalk, ToSP Chairman Richard Skewes said the region was one of the first to recover post-pandemic.

“Now we’ve had the opportunity to be able to show our wares to more people than we ever had. In fact, most of the destinations in our region are actually experiencing greater tourism than they did prior to COVID.

“So more and more people are coming and we’re getting a lot of new airlines coming into the destinations as well, with a whole lot of new attractions as a result. There’s new things to do, new opportunities and new resorts opening up too.”

Supported by the Pacific Tourism Office and Pacific Trade Invest Australia and ATIA, the roadshow features 10 National Tourism Offices including Norfolk Island, Solomon Islands, New Caledonia, Vanuatu, Fiji, Samoa, Cook Islands, Niue, Tahiti and for the first time – Palau.

Mr Skewes said the roadshow offered a crucial opportunity for pacific destinations get their tourism messages across.

“We want agents to be educated on the destinations. We want to tell them the difference between all the different countries out there because while we have some commonalities, we also have some unique differences too.

“So we’re here tonight to train the travel industry. Get them excited, get them enthused and hopefully get some more visitations over to the islands.”

Mr Skewes added that the role of the travel agent has never been more vital in spreading the message about the South Pacific destinations.

“A lot of people predicted that travel agents would maybe disappear after COVID and the rise of online travel agencies, but in actual fact it’s gone the complete reverse.

“Travel agents are now more important than they ever have been and have more tools at their disposal to give a client the best possible option than they’ve ever had before.”

The roadshow will now visit Melbourne, Brisbane, the Sunshine Coast and the Gold Coast, bringing an immersive experience that combines information, entertainment and the chance to win prizes thanks to major sponsor, Fiji Airways.

“The South Pacific is close, it’s affordable and it’s in reach of every single person.”

www.tosp.com.au

The post South Pacific roadshow sends vital tourism message appeared first on TravelTalk.