News

As part of a new ?paper lite? sales strategy Bales Worldwide is launching one printed brochure for 2010/11, the Inspirational Journey Guide.

Youtravel.com group managing director Graham Nichols said: ?Youtravel.com has resigned from ABTA with immediate effect over the Associations recent ruling to make bed-banks liable for all forward bookings made through an agent in the event of agency failure, whether or not the bed-bank has been paid.

?Our relationships with agents are varied and complex and are negotiated on an individual contractual basis. In addition agents sell in many different ways which also has a bearing on the overall commercial situation.

?This ruling does not take into consideration the intricacies of the supplier-travel agent relationship or the continuing evolution within this sector which will be further informed by the imminent Medhotels? VAT case and the Travel Republic court case.

?In these circumstances we find it an unacceptable risk to our business model to accept this new blanket ruling, preferring to rely on the actual contractual, commercial and practical agreements that are in place. The ABTA protection of ?100,000 per year is nothing like enough to cover the risk.

?As with any business decision, things will remain under review as the shape and scope of the accommodation-only sector continues to develop.?

?Our relationships with agents are varied and complex and are negotiated on an individual contractual basis. In addition agents sell in many different ways which also has a bearing on the overall commercial situation.

?This ruling does not take into consideration the intricacies of the supplier-travel agent relationship or the continuing evolution within this sector which will be further informed by the imminent Medhotels? VAT case and the Travel Republic court case.

?In these circumstances we find it an unacceptable risk to our business model to accept this new blanket ruling, preferring to rely on the actual contractual, commercial and practical agreements that are in place. The ABTA protection of ?100,000 per year is nothing like enough to cover the risk.

?As with any business decision, things will remain under review as the shape and scope of the accommodation-only sector continues to develop.?

Leger Holidays is offering reduced fares on Battlefield tours during school holidays throughout 2010; with prices starting from ?159

Almond Resorts is offering special deals at its two properties on St Lucia as part of its I Can?t Believe It?s So Low promotion.

As London gears up for the opening ceremony of the Olympic and Paralympic Games on July 27, 2012, a new report by Visit London reveals that in excess of ?11billion will be invested into projects directly benefiting visitors to the city.

Christmas will come early for several lucky agents attending TIPTO roadshows this month, with prizes up for grabs.

Lily Allen will be making a cameo appearance on Neighbours on Tuesday, November 10.

NCL is holding a three day sale from November 10 - 12 where agents can offer customers savings of up to ?300 per stateroom and earn up to ?100 in bonus commission as a reward for sales success.