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                        <title>Special Cities: City and beach, the perfect combination</title>

            <link>https://www.travmagazine.nl/en/special-cities-city-and-beach-the-perfect-combination/</link>
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            <pubDate>Mon, 16 Sep 2024 10:14:08 +0000</pubDate>

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            <description><![CDATA[
Header image: Naples © DinoPh &#8211; Shutterstock.com Autumn is the ideal time for a city break: the hustle and bustle of the high season is over, the temperatures are pleasant and the cities come alive after the summer holidays. TravMagazine selects five European coastal cities where you can relax by the water after visiting museums, &hellip; Lees verder            ]]></description>

            
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[
Header image: Naples © DinoPh &#8211; Shutterstock.com
Autumn is the ideal time for a city break: the hustle and bustle of the high season is over, the temperatures are pleasant and the cities come alive after the summer holidays.
TravMagazine selects five European coastal cities where you can relax by the water after visiting museums, local markets and boutiques. 
Valencia Spain&#8217;s third-largest city is located on the Mediterranean Sea and is the perfect mishmash of modern and historic architecture, culture, and cuisine.
Founded by the Romans in 138 BC, Valencia has welcomed several cultures over the centuries, including the Moors, influences that are still visible in the cityscape.
A visit to this sunny city is not complete without a stroll through the historic neighborhood of El Carmen.
Here, narrow streets wind past medieval buildings and modern street art.
Valencia&#8217;s impressive cathedral is believed by some to be home to the Holy Grail, an artifact that was used during the Last Supper, according to tradition.
Another must-see for any visitor is the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences, designed by the famous architect Santiago Calatrava.
This impressive complex houses a science museum, a planetarium and the largest oceanographic park in Europe, among other things.
In the afternoon, recover from all the impressions in the laid-back, green Jardí del Túria (Gardens of Turia), in the old riverbed.
The city not only has beautiful, wide beaches that are easily accessible from the city center, but also a nice harbor where you can enjoy fresh seafood at one of the chic beach clubs or restaurants.
Valencia &#8211; Songquan Deng &#8211; Shutterstock.com
Naples Naples, the capital of the Italian region of Campania, is a city full of character and contrasts, located on the bay of the same name, with the imposing Mount Vesuvius in the background.
Naples is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with a history dating back to the 8th century BC when it was founded by the Greeks as Neapolis.
Stroll down the long, narrow street of Spaccanapoli, cutting through the historic center and leading past churches, monasteries, palaces and markets.
Not only is there plenty to see for the culture and history lover, such as the beautiful marble &#8216;Veiled Christ&#8217;, archaeological museums and of course famous decayed cities Pompeii and Herculaneum within a travelable distance, but pizza lovers can also indulge themselves here.
If you&#8217;re already familiar with Italy, you probably know: Naples is the birthplace of the classic Margherita pizza, and a visit to pizzerias like Da Michele or Sorbillo is a gastronomic experience in itself.
End your day along the Bay of Naples, with breathtaking views of both the city and Mount Vesuvius.
A visit to the quaint Posillipo district or the Lungomare promenade offers great places to stroll, dine by the water, and enjoy spectacular sunsets. Gdansk With the smallest population on this list (about half a million), this Polish port city is perhaps the most &#8216;relaxed&#8217; city to visit.
Located on the Baltic Sea in the north of the country, Gdansk has a rich and varied history, from Teutonic knights to the Hanseatic cities and a turbulent 20th century.
The Long Market (Długi Targ) is the beating heart of the city and is surrounded by colourful, restored mansions that bear witness to the wealth of the Hanseatic era.
Visit the Artushof, once the meeting point for merchants and nobility, or St. Mary&#8217;s Basilica, the largest brick church in the world. The river Motlawa flows through the city, which you can follow via beautiful footpaths on both sides to, among other things, the port area, with its special black Crane Gate.
Due to its location on the Baltic Sea, Gdansk can be perfectly combined with a day at the beach on the beautiful coastline.
For example, Stogi beach is known for its width and clear waters, Jelitkowo is popular for its peaceful atmosphere, parks and bike paths, and Brzezno offers a lively promenade with everything you need, with the longest wooden pier in Europe.
Gdansk © Rudolf_Prchlik Shutterstock.com
Marseille A real seafaring city (founded by Greeks) is the French city of Marseille, the second city of the country and the scene of various water sports during the Olympic Games last summer.
Attractions such as the Old Port (Vieux-Port) and the iconic Basilica Notre-Dame de la Garde, attract countless visitors every year.
The city is also famous for its gastronomic scene, with specialties such as bouillabaisse (a type of fish soup).
Le Panier, the oldest district full of narrow streets, or the port area of Vieux-Port, are good places to start exploring and maybe even start a boat trip to the Calanques, a series of rugged coves and cliffs.
With the ultimate Mediterranean location, the city naturally offers several beautiful beaches.
Marseille is home to a number of impressive museums that are well worth a visit, such as the Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations (MuCEM) or the Palais Longchamp which houses the Museum of Fine Arts and Natural History.
Housed in an elegant mansion, the Musée Cantini is dedicated to modern art and displays works by well-known artists from the 20th century. 
Vieux-port in Marseille
Split Roman ruins that seamlessly merge into a vibrant city life, and after a day of soaking up culture, cool off immediately on the Adriatic Sea.
Split offers exactly that fine combination.
The 1,700-year-old UNESCO-listed Diocletian&#8217;s Palace is the heart of the city and is more than just a historical monument; It is a lively district full of shops, restaurants and homes.
Stroll through the narrow alleys and discover hidden squares, Roman temples, and the impressive Cathedral of Saint Domnius.
On the waterfront of Split, you&#8217;ll find the Riva, a lively boulevard where locals and tourists alike enjoy the sun, the view of the sea, and the boats passing by.
The Riva is the perfect place to start a day with a coffee and a fresh pastry, or to end the evening with a glass of local wine while watching the sun go down.
Lovely for beach lovers: the famous Bačvice Beach, just a short walk from the city center.
Get to know the local water sport &#8216;Picigin&#8217;, which can be found nowhere else in the world.
A visit to Split is not complete without a trip to one of the nearby islands.
Hvar, Brač and Šolta are easily accessible by ferry. 
The post Special Cities: City and beach, the perfect combination appeared first on TravMagazine.
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                        <title>Special Autumn holidays: exotic and surprisingly close by</title>

            <link>https://www.travmagazine.nl/en/special-autumn-holidays-surprisingly-and-exotically-close-by/</link>
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            <pubDate>Thu, 15 Aug 2024 09:14:58 +0000</pubDate>

            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Arjen Lutgendorff]]></dc:creator>

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            <description><![CDATA[
The autumn holidays, a one-week holiday, offer plenty of time to get away from it all. Do your customers want something other than a park or hotel in the Netherlands? We have listed special destinations &#8216;close by&#8217; for you. The autumn holidays offer a unique opportunity to explore the splendour of Europe. As the leaves &hellip; Lees verder            ]]></description>

            
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[
The autumn holidays, a one-week holiday, offer plenty of time to get away from it all.
Do your customers want something other than a park or hotel in the Netherlands?
We have listed special destinations &#8216;close by&#8217; for you.      The autumn holidays offer a unique opportunity to explore the splendour of Europe.
As the leaves change color and the days get shorter, these destinations invite you to enjoy their unique charm and hidden treasures.
Whether you are looking for culture, adventure or pure relaxation. Tirana, Albania Tirana, the capital of Albania, is a destination that is increasingly in the spotlight.
Rich in history and culture, this city offers a perfect blend of old and new.
Autumn is a great time to visit Tirana, with mild temperatures that are ideal for exploring the city.
Start your adventure at Skanderbeg Square, the heart of the city.
This large square is surrounded by some of Tirana&#8217;s most important landmarks, including the National History Museum, the Et&#8217;hem Bey Mosque, and the Opera House.
The colorful buildings and lively street life make this an excellent place to soak up the atmosphere of the city.           For panoramic views of the city, take the cable car up Dajti Mountain.
Here you can enjoy nature walks, horseback riding, or simply enjoy a meal at the restaurant at the top, with breathtaking views over Tirana and the surrounding mountains.
The Blloku district, once only accessible to high-ranking party members, is now one of the trendiest areas of the city.
Here you will find numerous cafes, restaurants and boutiques.
Get a taste of local cuisine with dishes such as byrek (a filled savory pie) and tavë kosi (lamb with yogurt).
Tirana also offers a vibrant nightlife, so be sure to set aside a night to dance in one of the many clubs.
From Tirana, it is surprisingly easy to plan a day at the beach.
Just an hour&#8217;s drive away is the beautiful Adriatic coast, with popular destinations such as Durrës and Golem.
Durrës, Albania&#8217;s largest coastal city, offers wide sandy beaches, a lively promenade, and historical sites such as the amphitheater.
For a quieter beach experience, Golem is ideal, with its serene atmosphere and pristine coastline.
Make sure you arrange a rental car. Germany Germany is a country rich in culture, history, and nature, and autumn is a great time to explore it.
The fresh air and changing colors make it an ideal destination for an autumn holiday.
Berlin, the capital, offers a fascinating mix of history and modern culture.
Visit the Berlin Wall and the Holocaust Memorial for a lesson in history, and discover hip neighborhoods like Kreuzberg and Prenzlauer Berg, where you can enjoy cafes, galleries, and unique shops.
For nature lovers, the Black Forest is a must-see.
This fairytale region offers countless hiking and biking trails through dense forests, past shimmering lakes, and through picturesque villages.
Visit the city of Freiburg, located on the edge of the Black Forest, and enjoy local cuisine, including the famous Schwarzwalder Kirschtorte (Black Forest Cake).
Munich, the capital of Bavaria, is especially famous for Oktoberfest, but there is much more to discover.
Explore the historic downtown, visit the Nymphenburg Palace, and take a trip to the nearby Neuschwanstein Castle, one of the most fairytale castles in the world. &nbsp;&nbsp;England England in autumn is a picture of falling leaves and misty mornings.
The country offers an abundance of historical sites and picturesque landscapes that are perfect for a fall getaway.
Start your journey in London, where you can visit iconic landmarks such as the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and the British Museum.
Take a stroll along the Thames and enjoy the fall colors in the city&#8217;s parks, such as Hyde Park and Regent&#8217;s Park.
Get out of the city and discover the English countryside.
The Cotswolds, with its quaint villages and rolling hills, is an ideal place for hiking enthusiasts.
Visit charming villages such as Bourton-on-the-Water and Bibury, and enjoy a traditional afternoon tea in one of the many tearooms.                         Another must-see is the Lake District, a region known for its lakes, mountains, and poetic beauty.
Follow one of the many walking routes, such as the trek to the top of Scafell Pike, England&#8217;s highest mountain, or take a boat ride on Lake Windermere for a peaceful and scenic experience. Belgium Belgium is a destination that has a special attraction during the autumn holidays.
The country, famous for its historic cities, beautiful nature, and culinary delights, offers plenty of opportunities for an unforgettable vacation.
Bruges, also known as the Venice of the North, is a fairytale city that comes alive in autumn.    The medieval architecture and scenic canals are surrounded by colorful autumn foliage, creating a romantic atmosphere.
Visit the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and take a boat ride along the canals for a unique perspective of the city.
Don&#8217;t forget to visit the Belfry Tower for a panoramic view of Bruges.
The Ardennes are a paradise for nature lovers and adventurers.
This wooded area offers countless walking and cycling routes through picturesque landscapes, along rivers and through charming villages.
In autumn, nature is at its best, with a color palette of red, orange and yellow.
Visit the town of Durbuy, which is known as the smallest city in the world, and enjoy the local gastronomy in one of the cozy restaurants.          Brussels, the capital of Belgium, offers a rich mix of culture and history.
Visit the Grote Markt, one of the most beautiful squares in Europe, and admire the beautiful guild houses.
Autumn is also the perfect time to explore the city&#8217;s many museums, such as the Royal Museum of Fine Arts and the Magritte Museum.
For chocolate lovers, a visit to one of the many chocolatiers is a must.
Antwerp is known for its fashion and modern art.
Visit the Fashion Museum to discover the latest trends and stroll through the trendy Het Zuid district, where you&#8217;ll find plenty of art galleries and hip cafes.
The city also has a rich historical heritage, with attractions such as the Cathedral of Our Lady and the impressive Central Station. Cape Verde Secretly not Europe, but still worth mentioning: the Cape Verde Islands, located off the coast of West Africa.
Here you can enjoy an exotic autumn holiday with a mix of Portuguese and African influences.
Each of the ten inhabited islands has its own unique charm and activities.
Sal is one of the most popular islands, known for its extensive sandy beaches and excellent water sports.
Santa Maria, Sal&#8217;s main tourist resort, offers a range of activities, such as windsurfing, kite surfing, and scuba diving.
The colorful fishing boats and lively markets give a glimpse of daily life on the island.
Santiago, the largest island, offers a rich cultural heritage and beautiful nature.
Explore the historic town of Cidade Velha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and hike through the Serra Malagueta National Park, where you&#8217;ll enjoy spectacular views of the mountains and ocean.
Fogo, a volcanic island, is perfect for adventure seekers.
Climb the active volcano Pico do Fogo and admire the otherworldly landscape of lava fields and wineries.
Taste the local wine, made from grapes growing on the volcanic soil, for a unique tasting experience.                  Porquerolles
Paradises around the corner
Waves roll in from a clear blue sea, you lie on a white beach while a lovely breeze caresses your skin and palm leaves gently sway in the wind.
The Caribbean?
Not at all&#8230;    Europe is home to countless idyllic destinations that offer the perfect escape without the interference of long travel times.
With crystal clear waters, hidden coves, and unspoiled nature, it feels like you&#8217;re thousands of miles from home, when in reality, you&#8217;re only a short flight away.
Ideal for the autumn holidays. La Palma, Spain Often referred to as &#8216;La Isla Bonita&#8217; or &#8216;the beautiful island&#8217;, La Palma is considered the most exotic and paradisiacal island of the Canary Archipelago.
Unlike the more touristy islands, La Palma offers a relaxed atmosphere and often relatively secluded and calm beaches.
Don&#8217;t expect snow-white bounty beaches; Here, you&#8217;ll spread your sheet on dramatically dark sand, formed by ancient volcanoes.
Enjoy a day at one of the larger beaches such as Playa de Puerto Naos, where you can enjoy beach bars, restaurants and adventure water sports.
For peace and quiet later in the holiday, seek out Playa de Nogales, a hidden gem surrounded by cliffs and vegetation.
The crystal-clear waters invite you to snorkel and dive, where volcanic eruptions have also created a unique environment underwater.
In the heart of the island lies La Caldera de Taburiente, a gigantic volcanic crater.
The national park, declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, is fantastic for nature lovers.
Walk among native laurel trees and Canarian pines, and keep your eyes peeled for the rare La Palma giant lizard or Canarian buzzard.
The magic of La Palma doesn&#8217;t stop when the sun goes down: thanks to strict rules against light pollution, the sky here offers a spectacular starry night.
The Rogue de los Muchachos Observatory, located on one of the highest points on the island, offers a rare view of the Milky Way. Sao Miguel, Portugal From the Netherlands, it is only a five-hour flight to São Miguel, the largest island in the Azores, which lies about 1500 kilometers from the Portuguese coast in the Atlantic Ocean.
Although the beaches of São Miguel are not typical bounty beaches, you are in the right place for the tropical island atmosphere.
Praia de Santa Bárbara, a vast beach on the north coast, attracts surfers with its fantastic waves.
Surrounded by green hills and cliffs, Praia dos Moinhos offers a peaceful place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty.
The verdant forests of São Miguel are the stars of the island, making it a perfect destination for sunbathers who love adventure.
One of the most impressive sights is Sete Cidades, a crater lake with a blue and a green lake, separated by a narrow land bridge.
Not far from there is Lagoa do Fogo, the &#8216;Lake of Fire&#8217;, a high-altitude lake surrounded by rugged nature and silence.
Walking around this lake feels like stepping back in time, far away from the hustle and bustle of modern life.
And although there are no white sandy beaches, there are thermal hot springs, such as the one in Furnas, where you can relax after a special hike. Sao MiguelPorquerolles, France The largest of the three Îles d&#8217;Hyères in the Mediterranean Sea, Porquerolles is located just off the southern coast of France.                     With white sandy beaches, azure waters, and lush nature, it&#8217;s the perfect place to escape the everyday grind.
Beaches such as Plage Notre-Dame and Plage d&#8217;Argent invite you to swim, snorkel and sunbathe.
Its crystal-clear waters and scenic coastline attract beach lovers from far and wide.
The interior of Porquerolles is just as enchanting.
Extensive vineyards, fragrant pine forests and hilly landscapes offer fantastic hiking and cycling opportunities.
A special detail is that the island is car-free, so that the tranquility and natural beauty are optimally preserved.
And then there&#8217;s Île de Ré, another gem on the French coast, known for its charming villages and tranquil beaches.
Well worth a visit if you&#8217;re exploring the French islands. Santorini, Greece Although Santorini is not known for its vast sandy beaches, its coastlines and swimming locations are truly spectacular.
The Red Beach at Akrotiri, with its impressive cliffs and vibrant red sand, Kamari Beach, with its dark volcanic sand, and the White Beach, which is only accessible by boat, offer a unique swimming experience.         Santorini&#8217;s location in the southern Aegean Sea offers breathtaking views of the caldera, a huge volcanic crater that is partly submerged.
The steep cliffs, topped by the picturesque villages of Oia and Fira, form a dramatic and enchanting landscape.
The caldera, created by a volcanic eruption thousands of years ago, tells a story of natural forces and historical changes.
In addition to its spectacular coastlines and impressive scenery, Santorini also offers a rich cultural experience.
Visit the archaeological site of Akrotiri, a well-preserved ancient Minoan city, or enjoy the local wines at one of the many vineyards dotted around the island. Gozo, Malta The coastline of Gozo, the island next to Malta, is a succession of the most beautiful Mediterranean beaches.
Ramla Bay, with its striking reddish sand, and the idyllic bay of San Blas are perfect spots for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.
In addition, there are plenty of hidden bays and coves that you can discover for yourself.
The rock formations at the Azure Window, an iconic symbol of Malta until its collapse in 2017, and the nearby Blue Hole are spectacular and loved by divers.
The salt pans of Marsalforn offer a unique landscape that you won&#8217;t find anywhere else.
Gozo&#8217;s interior features rolling hills, lush valleys, and picturesque villages.
The city of Victoria, also known as Rabat, is the cultural heart of the island.
Here you can explore the Citadel, a fortified city with a rich history and breathtaking views of the island.
Victoria also offers charming streets, cozy cafes, and lively markets that will give you an authentic Maltese experience. Asos, Greece Upon arrival in Asos, you will immediately be captivated by the serenity of this village, tucked away in a picturesque bay with colorful houses that cascade against the hills.
Through narrow streets, lined with bougainvillea and citrus trees, you will eventually reach the lush hills and clear blue waters.
The main beach of Asos has soft pebbles and is perfect for families and those seeking peace and quiet, who want to swim and snorkel here, due to its clear and calm waters.
In addition, Asos offers a patchwork of secluded bays and beaches where you can enjoy in peace.
A day of culture?
Visit the old Venetian castle, once a bastion against pirates.
The combination of serene nature, picturesque architecture, and historic charm makes Asos a unique and enchanting destination on the Greek coast.  La Palma, T.W. van Urk &#8211; Shutterstock[/]Ksamil, Albania One of the hidden gems of the Mediterranean is located on the Albanian Riviera.
After a three-hour flight to Corfu and a short ferry ride to the Albanian port city of Sarandë, you&#8217;ll reach idyllic Ksamil in just 20 minutes.
Ksamil&#8217;s beaches, such as the famous Ksamil Beach, are pearly white and surrounded by turquoise waters, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.                        The nearby Ksamil Islands are an ideal destination for a day trip.
The nearby Butrint National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a fascinating combination of archaeological remains and unspoiled nature.
Home to the ruins of an ancient city, the park offers visitors a unique insight into the region&#8217;s rich history and a chance to enjoy the serene beauty of the Albanian landscape.  Ksamil[/]Formentera, Spain Looking for vast sandy beaches, clear blue waters and an unspoilt atmosphere that is at odds with the vibrant nightlife of neighboring island Ibiza?
The smallest inhabited island of the Balearic Islands, Formentera, offers the most beautiful and relaxing beaches you can find.
Often cited as one of the best beaches in the world, Playa de Ses Illetes welcomes you with powdery white sand and crystal clear waters.
Cala Saona, an intimate cove on the west coast, surrounded by red cliffs, is the perfect place to admire spectacular sunsets.
This bohemian island was a haven for famous musicians and artists in the 60s and 70s.
Bob Dylan is said to have lived in La Mola lighthouse for a time, and the band Pink Floyd stayed here during the creation of their iconic music.
Formentera&#8217;s combination of natural beauty, tranquil beaches, and rich cultural history makes it a unique and special destination. Capri, Italy Although southern Italian Capri is not known for its vast sandy beaches, its coastlines and swimming spots are nothing short of spectacular.
Capri&#8217;s natural beauty is one of the main reasons visitors return time and time again.
The island offers breathtaking hiking trails, such as the Pizzolungo and the Sentiero dei Fortini, which lead along rugged coastlines and through dense forests.
Marina Piccola, on the south side of the island, offers stunning views of the iconic Faraglioni rock formations and is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing.
Also, don&#8217;t miss the chance to take a boat ride to the famous Blue Cave (Grotta Azzurra), where the sunlight through the water creates a magical blue glow.
In addition to its natural splendor, the charming villages and modern elegance of Capri are worth exploring, with its luxury boutiques and cozy cafes.               Capri, Sean Pavone &#8211; Shutterstock.com
The post Special Autumn holidays: exotic and surprisingly close by appeared first on TravMagazine.
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                        <title>Special Middle East: this is what you want to know about Oman, Ras al Khaimah and Sharjah</title>

            <link>https://www.travmagazine.nl/en/special-middle-east-this-is-what-you-want-to-know-about-oman-ras-al-khaimah-and-sharjah/</link>
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            <pubDate>Thu, 11 Jul 2024 10:49:58 +0000</pubDate>

            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Theo de Reus]]></dc:creator>

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            <description><![CDATA[
Everyone knows the iconic Dubai with its glittering skyscrapers and glamour, or Abu Dhabi with its majestic mosques and luxurious resorts, but of course these are only two of the total seven emirates. TravMagazine speaks with the tourist offices of the lesser-known Ras al Khaimah and Sharjah, and two product managers explain the offer in &hellip; Lees verder            ]]></description>

            
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[
Everyone knows the iconic Dubai with its glittering skyscrapers and glamour, or Abu Dhabi with its majestic mosques and luxurious resorts, but of course these are only two of the total seven emirates.
TravMagazine speaks with the tourist offices of the lesser-known Ras al Khaimah and Sharjah, and two product managers explain the offer in Oman.   Ras al Khaimah
&#8216;During the Jais Flight, you fly over the ravines like a bird&#8217;
  &#8220;Ras Al Khaimah is a resort destination, very different from the other Emirates,&#8221; says Danielle Goedkoop (spokesperson for the Ras Al Khaimah Tourist Board).
&#8220;There is a 64-kilometre-long coastline with mangroves and beautiful beaches, combined with the desert, which is only a 20-minute drive from the coast, and the highest mountains in the UAE make it a unique destination. Tip: let your customers experience the glitz and glamour of Dubai for a few days and then book them for a day or four or five in a wonderful resort in Ras Al Khaimah to rest and discover the local culture and nature. Pearl Farm
 What activities should you recommend to the client, and what is a good length of stay? &#8216;In Ras Al Khaimah you will find various activities in the mountains, the desert and along the coast. One of the most important must-do&#8217;s is the longest zipline in the world, the Jais Flight, which allows you to fly like a bird through the mountains and over ravines. Another excursion not to be missed is the Suwaidi Pearl Farm. Here you sail with an authentic dhow, past the mangroves and flamingos and once you arrive at the &#8216;floating farm&#8217; you will learn everything about the centuries-old history of the pearl fishers. My personal favorite is a desert drive, to spot the Arabian oryx and gazelles. Also very interesting: a date tasting at one of the date plantations!&#8217; &#8220;I would recommend at least 4 nights to see the highlights and to enjoy the wonderful beaches at the beautiful world-class resorts that the destination offers. The emirate is very accessible: it&#8217;s a 45-minute drive from Dubai International Airport to your hotel.&#8217;
Jebel Jais in Ras al Khaimah8000 rooms
 Goedkoop: &#8216;Ras Al Khaimah has the ambition to grow to 3.5 million by the end of 2030 and that growth is on track this year, with us already receiving 1.22 million international visitors in 2023. At the moment, Russia is the largest market, followed by Kazakhstan and the UK. The Benelux is a growth market and, in collaboration with various travel organizations, in addition to further product development, we are working brand awareness and growth in the number of visitors. More than 8000 rooms are scheduled to be added to the accommodation offer in Ras Al Khaimah. In recent months, the Anantara and Sofitel have opened and in the coming years the Westin, Nobu and W Hotel, among others, will open. A major game-changer for the destination will be the Wynn Resort: in 2027, the doors of this 1500-room hotel and the UAE&#8217;s first casino will open. Finally, Goedkoop indicates that she would like to put the travel professional in touch with the hoteliers of Ras al Khaimah, and that one has a chance to win a free stay by following the Online Travel Training about the Emirate.       Sharjah
&#8216;Our heritage has earned us prestigious awards&#8217;
  With the largest number of museums in the country and international events such as one of the world&#8217;s largest book fairs, Sharjah is also considered the cultural capital of the UAE, we hear from Maysoun Al Hosany of Sharjah Tourist Board.
&#8216;Combined with beautiful natural and historical sites such as the UNESCO-nominated archaeological site of Mleiha and the historic district of Heart of Sharjah, we offer a varied experience. Our rich cultural heritage has earned us prestigious awards, such as the UNESCO Capital of Culture of the Arab World, and World Book Capital 2019.&#8217; In the past decade, Sharjah has been the only UAE emirate to be awarded these titles.
&#8216;With many of our tourist spots, we cater to this niche audience.&#8217; Al Noor Island in Khalid Lake © Creative family Shutterstock The airport of this third-largest emirate welcomed more than 15 million passengers from more than 100 countries in 2023, there was an 11% increase in the number of hotel guests and European visitors now made up 27% of the total.
Sharjah is striving to carve out a place for itself among its bigger brothers Abu Dhabi and Dubai, with Russia, the UAE, India, Oman and Saudi Arabia currently the largest source of tourism.     
Accessibility
  Al Hosany: &#8216;Sharjah is the only UAE emirate that shares a border with all six other emirates, and has seaports on both the Arabian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman. It has a well-connected international airport and is actively working to improve infrastructure, with multimillion-dollar road expansion projects to improve connectivity between different regions within the emirate itself. Guests enjoy modern hospitality, for example in the famous hotels such as Chedi Al Bait or Serai Wing, Bait Khalid Bin Ibrahim.&#8217;  
Nature reserves
  Must-do&#8217;s according to the tourist board?
&#8216;Certainly a selection of the art galleries, museums, mosques and historical sites. In addition, we have a vibrant cuisine, from traditional Emirati to international dishes. For adventure seekers, Sharjah&#8217;s vast deserts, picturesque mountains, and pristine coastlines offer opportunities for dune adventures, nature walks and cycling, water sports, and beach activities. Nature lovers can also explore Sharjah&#8217;s fifteen nature reserves and the well-known Sharjah Safari, the largest safari park outside of Africa, as well as numerous ecologically responsible luxury retreats, including the &#8216;Sharjah Collection.&#8217;   
Ecotourism
  &#8216;Our ecotourism is also a major draw, with a wide range of sustainable travel experiences. Our east coast destinations, such as Kalba and Khorfakkan, are perfect for this. We&#8217;re excited about the response to the new additions, such as the Hanging Gardens, a sprawling 1.6-million-square-foot park with more than 100,000 trees, as well as Al Hefaiyah Lake, which features 11.7 kilometers of mountain trails and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.&#8221;  Al North Mosque © Ayman Noureldin Shutterstock



Oman
&#8216;The Middle East&#8217;s best-kept secret&#8217;
Oman and the United Arab Emirates are popular destinations with Silverjet Holidays.
Product managers Lydia Kortekaas (Oman) and Jeannette Guilbert (UAE) explain the offer, including tips. 
Here are a few things you should definitely see when you&#8217;re in Oman.
The Grand Mosque in Muscat is a must-see.
The architecture is impressive, both inside and out.
Muscat itself is fun to explore, especially the Muttrah Souk, one of the oldest markets in the Arab world.
Wadi Bani Khalid and Wadi Shab are paradisiacal oases with crystal clear waters, ideal for swimming.
The fort of Nizwa, the largest fort in Oman, offers a magnificent view of the city and the mountains.
In the coastal area of Ras Al Hadd, you can spot green sea turtles laying their eggs on the beach.
In the Hajar Mountains lies Jabel Shams, the highest mountain in Oman, also known as the Grand Canyon of the Middle East.
Wahiba Sands is the most beautiful desert in the north of Oman with desert camps such as Magic Camp.For an introduction to the rich history and original atmosphere of these sights, Kortekaas and Guilbert recommend the private tours Enchanting Oman and Magical Oman.
&#8216;Oman is also worth a visit for a luxury beach holiday.&#8217;         

When asked about Silverjet&#8217;s distinctiveness, the answer is: &#8216;With more than 25 years of experience, we are experts in luxury holidays and tailor-made tours in Oman. We work with the best agents and guides to ensure an optimally organised holiday.&#8217;Emerging destinations in the Middle East include Ras Al Khaimah and Ajman, with luxury resorts and unique attractions,&#8217; says Guilbert. &#8216;Ras Al Khaimah is developing rapidly, with plans for a Wynn Resort with the first casino in the UAE. Ajman has the beautiful The Oberoi Beach Resort Al Zorah.&#8217;The emirates are suitable for couples, families, active customers and culture lovers. &#8220;The luxury resorts offer a relaxing holiday with a sunny climate just a 6.5-hour flight away. The UAE are booked in both summer and winter. Oman is best visited from October to April because of the heat in the summer. Silverjet is already looking at new offerings for next season. &#8216;We have attractive combined trips and special excursions that can be combined with a beach holiday.&#8217;
The text continues as sponsored content





Discover Oman: A Mystical Land Full of Color and Tradition
  Oman is one of the most beautiful, versatile and safest Arab countries – the perfect destination for an unforgettable holiday.
This authentic and welcoming sultanate offers a wealth of experiences: from hundreds of majestic fortresses and castles, colorful souks and ancient cities to pristine white sand beaches.
Explore the rugged mountains, vast deserts, and lush tropical wadis.
Be inspired by the magical 1001-night fairy tale that Oman has to offer.
Enrich your knowledge and discover for yourself the unparalleled beauty of this special sultanate by taking the courses on TravEcademy&#8230; Beauty has an address!
Did you know that the Sultanate of Oman officially belongs to Asia?
This enchanting travel destination is about a ten-hour flight from the Netherlands and in the eastern tip of the Arabian Peninsula.
A country full of nature, authentic culture, hospitality, emerald green wadis, bright red deserts, cozy souks and ancient fortresses.
You won&#8217;t find mass tourism and skyscrapers here.
Oman exudes tranquility and has many highlights within a short distance of each other.           
Versatile Oman
  The Indian Ocean country once played a key role in the development of seaborne trade routes between Asia, East Africa, and Europe.
Today, the rich cultural heritage has been complemented by modern, sustainable developments.
Travelers will find more than 5,000 years of history, five UNESCO World Heritage Sites and many cultural attractions such as the impressive Royal Opera House and the Sultan Grand Qaboos Mosque in the capital Muscat.
Enjoy the spectacle at the goat market in Nizwa and unwind in a luxury resort on the beach around Muscat or the snow-white beaches around Salalah.
Oman has a coastline of more than 3,000 kilometres with white sandy beaches, steep cliffs and beautiful viewpoints from where you can spot dolphins, whales and sea turtles.      Camping &#8211; Stargazing in Oman © Ministry of Heritage &amp; Tourism Sultanate of Oman
Pearl of the Arabian Peninsula
  Steep mountains and a rugged desert are interspersed with the beautiful coastline with white beaches.
Excellent for sun or diving trips or even an overnight stay under the stars, in one of the unforgettable desert camps.
The vast Hajar Mountains cut through the interior &#8211; at 3,075 meters, Jabal Shams is the highest mountain and enchants Jabal Akhdar with its hanging gardens.
Lush oases, hidden wadis and meter-high sand dunes invite outdoor enthusiasts to activities such as climbing and hiking.
In addition, various spices and flavors characterize the country&#8217;s versatile cuisine.
For the real adrenaline junkie, you have the longest zipline over the water in Musandam and you can tear through the Asharqiyah desert in a 4&#215;4.
Real daredevils can even follow a Via Ferrata route on the Jebel Shams.
Further south, you can try sandboarding or dune bashing in the sand dunes of the Wahiba desert.
You can stay overnight for every budget.
From luxury 5* hotels to cozy heritage guesthouses, but you can also camp everywhere for free.
Above all, get to know the proud Omani.
Their hospitality will make you want to come back to this pearl of the Middle East.             
Hospitable Oman
  In Oman, travelers are welcomed with open arms, hospitality is a matter of course here.
It is no exception if you are invited for a cup of coffee and dates or are allowed to join dinner at an Omani&#8217;s home.
Oman is the holiday destination that welcomes the traveller.
The Sultanate of Oman has a rich past with famous heroes such as Sinbad the Sailor, the Queen of Sheba and Marco Polo.
The people of Oman have combined modern life with authentic traditions.
Hospitality and friendliness are a fixed value in this.       Camels in Dhofar © Ministry of Heritage &amp; Tourism Sultanate of Oman
Practical information
  The sultanate has 4.7 million inhabitants and is eight times the size of the Netherlands.
The best time to visit Oman is from October to April.
In these months, the temperature is on average between 25 and 35 degrees and the humidity is not too high.
Oman is easy to reach from the Netherlands with various airlines that fly to Muscat, and possibly also fly on with a domestic flight to the southern city of Salalah.
There are several ways to discover Oman.
Options range from cruises to individual tours with a 4&#215;4 jeep.       
Become an Oman expert!
  Curious about what else Oman has to hide?
Then take the TravEcademy courses about Oman and you will learn why Oman is the most varied country in the Middle East.
You get to know the different regions, sights and know exactly what is interesting for your travelers.
And maybe you will also be inspired to make a tour through the Sultanate.
Authentic, inspiring, hospitable and with unparalleled natural beauty; that&#8217;s Oman!
Safe and hospitable, Oman enchants your customers with its ancient and colorful souks, surprises with breathtakingly beautiful landscapes and takes you away with stories that could have come straight out of 1001 Nights.       
Header photo © Jithesh Sundar / Shutterstock.com







The post Special Middle East: this is what you want to know about Oman, Ras al Khaimah and Sharjah appeared first on TravMagazine.
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                        <title>Special Middle East: TravMagazine in Riyadh</title>

            <link>https://www.travmagazine.nl/en/special-middle-east-travmagazine-in-riyadh/</link>
            <comments>https://www.travmagazine.nl/en/special-middle-east-travmagazine-in-riyadh/#respond</comments>

            <pubDate>Thu, 11 Jul 2024 09:18:37 +0000</pubDate>

            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Tijn Kramer]]></dc:creator>

            		<category><![CDATA[Magazine]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Special]]></category>

            <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.travmagazine.nl/special-middle-east-travmagazine-in-riyadh/</guid>

            
            <description><![CDATA[
Saudi Arabia&#8217;s tourism ambitions are second to none. A country that until recently was closed to the world is opening its doors to the world. TravMagazine took a look at the capital Riyadh. For the other (emerging) destinations, also read the second part of this special. No, it&#8217;s not Dubai. Any comparison with the success &hellip; Lees verder            ]]></description>

            
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[
Saudi Arabia&#8217;s tourism ambitions are second to none. A country that until recently was closed to the world is opening its doors to the world. TravMagazine took a look at the capital Riyadh. For the other (emerging) destinations, also read the second part of this special. No, it&#8217;s not Dubai. Any comparison with the success story is flawed. Riyadh is nothing like Dubai, perhaps apart from its ambitions to grow bigger. But above all, there are differences to observe. The Saudi capital was not overrun with tourists at the end of May, in fact, I feel like one of the few. The tourist infrastructure is still in its infancy, if not baby shoes. The local population seems to be slowly getting used to the new relaxations. But then again, there are authentic Arabian experiences that are already unparalleled. And we&#8217;re not talking about shopping malls with air conditioning, although there are those too. There really is a lot of authentic beauty to see.  
Once upon a time&#8230;
  Back to the beginning. Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, is a modern and fast-growing metropolis with a rich history and diverse culture. There is also a significant Arab population, although many Indians and Pakistanis live here as well for the hard work. The location is known to be in the center of the Arabian Peninsula, and the climate is desert-like, with very (!) hot summers and mild winters. Temperatures can reach over 45 degrees Celsius in summer, while winters are relatively mild with temperatures rarely dropping below 10 degrees Celsius.    That makes the winter months by far the best and most logical time to visit. Bonus: the locals also enjoy the outdoors and all kinds of things are organized to make the most of the time. Pop concerts, sports events and other fun outings together form the &#8216;Riyadh Season&#8217;, the fun months on the calendar in which more and more international artists make an appearance.  
History
  However, the history and nature are also particularly interesting. Riyadh originated from a small settlement called Hajr, which dates back to pre-Islamic times. The city has rapidly developed from a modest city to a modern metropolis in the twentieth century, especially after the establishment of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in 1932 by King Abdulaziz Al Saud. As the capital, Riyadh is home to the main government institutions and is an important financial and commercial center. As is well known, the country has long been a very closed book. Tourist access was almost impossible, and now it is. The most important thing is the enormous visa facilitation, which now makes a visit more attractive. Only the holy city of Mecca remains an exception, unless you are a Muslim. But for the rest, it has been welcomed. Under the Vision 2030 strategy, Riyadh aims to diversify its economy, with investments in non-oil sectors such as tourism, technology and finance.  
Honest
  But the elephant in the Arab room is, of course, clear. How does a country feel where women were not allowed to drive until June 2018? Where whippings stood on alcohol consumption and so on. Arch-conservative, that&#8217;s what it was, no more and no less. But the easing of restrictions has been in the news a lot in recent years. And the driving force is without a doubt Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Relaxations for women, worldly events such as pop concerts for tourists and locals, and investments from very deep and well-filled pockets. Fossil fuels are 2023, tourism is the future.  &nbsp;
&#8216;Saudi Arabia has ambitious plans to develop and diversify its tourism sector&#8217;
&nbsp;  And in today&#8217;s practice? A sample of the cold ground but a small majority of women wear a niqab, with which only the eyes can be seen. Even if they are cashier at the supermarket or out for dinner with friends in the mall. Because that is also possible, even as women together. Mad Max and Bad Boys 3 are playing in the mega cinema, there is a McDonalds, Starbucks, H&amp;M and lingerie stores. But you won&#8217;t see bare bellies, yoga pants, or men in sweatpants with Gucci bags. But that&#8217;s in the eye. Visiting Saudi Arabia is an excellent excursion to discuss whether tourism can contribute to a better world&#8230; or not. I always opt for the former, without being able to say for sure. But there is no doubt that there is a lot to see.  
To do list
  The King Khalid International Airport is one of the most important airports in the region, and will grow significantly in the coming years, with all the orders from the ambitious local airlines. As far as infrastructure is concerned, the city still has one major problem and that is traffic. Riyadh is currently building a comprehensive metro network to improve public transport and reduce traffic congestion. But until then, take your time to get from A to B. Uber (or Careem) works great and the taxis are also affordable. And without a doubt, Riyadh is a safe city. Of course, it is also a &#8216;dry&#8217; city, which means that alcohol is not served anywhere and it is not allowed to be taken away. That is expected to be relaxed sometime in the next decade, but for the time being, everyone can enjoy mocktails or an alcohol-free beer. But what are we going to look at first? Some highlights during a short visit are easy to mention. The Masmak Fortress is a nice historical structure in the center of the city, near the souk which is on the small side and not particularly interesting. That is true of the National Museum of Saudi Arabia with extensive exhibits on the country&#8217;s history, culture, and heritage. The third must-see is Diriyah, a historic city and UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its traditional architecture and important role in Saudi history. It is the original home of the Saudi royal family. And perhaps very remarkable: Boulevard City (and World), a neon-lit entertainment area with fun outings such as go-karting, a football experience, fast food and all kinds of other worldly entertainment.    The eye-catcher of the city, and a bit of the symbol of the modern city, is the Kingdom Tower, also known as the Al Mamlaka Tower. The building has a unique design with a striking opening at the top, which resembles an inverted parabolic arch according to the architects, but also a bottle opener in fairness. The tower is 302.3 meters high and has 99 floors. It is one of the tallest buildings in Saudi Arabia and a landmark in Riyadh&#8217;s skyline. One of the most notable features of the Kingdom Tower is the Sky Bridge, a 56-meter-long bridge that connects the two sides of the opening at the top of the tower. The Sky Bridge offers spectacular panoramic views of the city and is a popular tourist attraction. It is also the location of the best hotel in the city, the Four Seasons at Riyadh Center. Although other hotel brands are present, the hotel is known as the place where celebrities and locals like to stay or spend time. For a long time, it was the home of top footballer Ronaldo, who plays in the local top team Al Nassr. The lower part of the tower contains the Kingdom Centre Mall, an exclusive shopping mall with numerous international brands, as well as local specialties such as Oud perfumes and gold.  
Edge of the world
  But the absolute highlight, also literally, is an excursion to the &#8216;Edge of the World&#8217;, known locally as Jebel Fihrayn, and one of the most spectacular natural sights in Saudi Arabia. It is located about 90 kilometers northwest of Riyadh and is part of the Tuwaik Ridge. It&#8217;s called &#8216;Edge of the World&#8217; because of its dramatic cliffs that end abruptly and overlook a vast, empty desert plain. The view from the cliff gives visitors the feeling of standing at the edge of the world. The cliffs are millions of years old and consist of limestone and other sedimentary rocks.    The geological formations are impressive. In the area you can spot various wild animals, such as camels and different bird species. Although it is not directly accessible by paved roads, it is possible to get there by 4&#215;4 vehicle. It is advisable to join an organized tour due to its remote location and challenging terrain conditions. Allow about eight hours for an excursion, and bring good shoes and plenty of storage space for the photos on your phone.  
Fast
  Riyadh is a city that is changing very quickly. And that all fits in with the Vision 2030 and the associated Future Plans. Riyadh is undergoing numerous infrastructure and urban development projects, including Qiddiya (a large recreation and entertainment complex) and the Diriyah Gate (a culture and heritage project). As part of Vision 2030, there is a strong investment in developing tourist attractions and thus easing visa rules to attract more international tourists. And that applies to the whole country. Saudi Arabia has ambitious plans to develop and diversify its tourism sector as part of its broader Vision 2030 strategy, which aims to reduce reliance on oil revenues. You may have already heard; NEOM is to become a futuristic megacity in northwestern Saudi Arabia, planned as a hub for innovation, technology and sustainability. NEOM includes several sub-projects, such as THE LINE, a linear city without roads or cars, and Oxagon, a floating industrial city. The Red Sea Project is a luxury tourism project along the Red Sea coast, which will include a series of pristine islands, coral reefs and desert landscapes. The project focuses on sustainable tourism initiatives and aims to become one of the top destinations in the world for ecotourism. And then there&#8217;s Qiddiya, a large recreation and entertainment complex near Riyadh, intended to become the largest entertainment city in the world. Of course, there are question marks over Saudi Arabia, which is still unknown to many. And frankly, there&#8217;s only one way to answer it. Go and see for yourself. Because Saudi Arabia is coming and you want to see that before it gets really busy. What do you know about Oman, Ras al Khaimah and Sharjah?  Click here for part two of this story.
The post Special Middle East: TravMagazine in Riyadh appeared first on TravMagazine.
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                        <title>Special Bed Sofas: How They&#8217;re Transforming the Travel Industry</title>

            <link>https://www.travmagazine.nl/en/special-bed-sofas-how-theyre-transforming-the-travel-industry/</link>
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            <pubDate>Mon, 01 Jul 2024 14:07:40 +0000</pubDate>

            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Arjen Lutgendorff]]></dc:creator>

            		<category><![CDATA[Magazine]]></category>
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            <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.travmagazine.nl/special-bed-sofas-how-theyre-transforming-the-travel-industry/</guid>

            
            <description><![CDATA[
You have them in all shapes and sizes and they all guarantee the best deals. But who do you do business with and who don&#8217;t? What if the system suddenly stops responding or if a sofa bed goes bankrupt? Do you go for quality and money or do you choose the party with the best &hellip; Lees verder            ]]></description>

            
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[
You have them in all shapes and sizes and they all guarantee the best deals. But who do you do business with and who don&#8217;t? What if the system suddenly stops responding or if a sofa bed goes bankrupt? Do you go for quality and money or do you choose the party with the best savings system? What impact do bed sofas have on the travel industry and how are they transforming the market?  The world of sofa beds is changing rapidly. Where previously the focus was on beds only, sofa beds now offer many up- and cross-sell products. In the past, there was almost only direct contact between accommodation and tour operator, with the tour operator processing these into packages and selling them through the travel agencies. Travel agents have had access to bed banks for years now, which makes comparing ten or more parties with the current systems a lot easier.  
Consolidation &amp; Technology
  The use of technology by sofa beds has not only improved efficiency but also revolutionized the way they do business. The integration of advanced booking systems has enabled travel agents to compare and book offers faster and more accurately. In addition, bed banks have used big data and analytics to gain insights into consumer behavior and market trends. This allows them to offer dynamic pricing and better respond to supply and demand. Additionally, bed banks have adapted to mobile technologies, allowing travel agents and consumers to access their services on the go. This means they can respond flexibly and quickly to changing circumstances, such as last-minute bookings or cancellations. The investment in mobile apps and responsive websites has significantly improved the accessibility and user-friendliness of sofa beds.  
Specialisation
  There is a trend in which bed sofas are embracing more and more boutique hotels, instead of just focusing on large chains. Bed sofas that specialise in a destination often have direct contracts and therefore offer a distinctive offer. This is in response to consumer demand for unique, small-scale accommodations.  
Flexibility and convenience
  Bed banks offer flexibility to travel agents because bookings can often be cancelled free of charge up to shortly before time. This makes it attractive for travel agents to work with bed sofas. The booking systems of sofa beds have been further developed and offer ease of use by showing all possible combinations of low-cost airlines and accommodations in one overview. The benefits of flexibility and convenience extend beyond just cancellation policies. Sofa beds offer advanced search and filter options, allowing travel agents to quickly find the perfect accommodation to meet the specific needs of their clients. This saves time and increases efficiency, which ultimately contributes to better customer service.  
Dynamic packaging
  Dynamic packaging initiatives link sofa beds to flights, car rentals and extras, so there&#8217;s always a package. This offers flexibility and an attractive margin for travel agents. The use of such systems creates new customers and a shift in revenue, with a focus on tailor-made trips at an attractive price. Dynamic packaging has changed the playing field for travel agents by offering them the opportunity to create tailor-made trips that fully meet the needs of their customers. This increases customer satisfaction and ensures a higher repeat booking rate. In addition, dynamic packaging allows travel agents to offer better deals, which gives them a competitive advantage over other providers.  
Own portals
  A number of organisations are developing their own portals in which they link bed sofas. This results in better commissions and a higher margin. Instead of linking dozens of sofa beds, the focus is on a select number of good agreements. This offers better value for money and ease of use for travel agents. The development of proprietary portals enables organizations to provide a seamless booking experience, with travel agents having access to a wide range of accommodations and services through a single platform. This simplifies the booking process and reduces complexity, allowing travel agents to work more efficiently and focus on providing added value to their customers.  
Margins
  One of the biggest challenges for sofa beds is the pressure on margins. While bed banks offer convenience and a wide range of options, they also take a cut of the margin of travel agents and tour operators. This can lead to tensions, especially in a competitive market where price is a crucial factor. It is important for bed banks to be transparent about their cost structure and added value in order to maintain their position. Transparency about margins and cost structures is essential to maintaining the trust of travel agents. Bed banks should clearly communicate how their prices are structured and what value they add to the booking process. This helps to avoid misunderstandings and ensures a long-term collaboration based on mutual trust.  
Technology
  Technological innovation is essential for the future of sofa beds. Companies that invest in cutting-edge technologies, such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, and blockchain, are likely to have a competitive advantage. These technologies can help optimize pricing strategies, personalize offers, and improve efficiency in the supply chain. So, bed banks are increasingly using artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning to optimize their services. For example, AI can help predict peak periods and adjust prices to maximize both occupancy and profitability. Machine learning algorithms can contribute to personalized recommendations. By analyzing user behavior, bed banks can send personalized offers and promotions that better align with the preferences of individual travelers. This not only increases customer satisfaction, but also the chance of repeat bookings.  
&#8216;Bed sofas are an indispensable part of the travel sector&#8217;
  Blockchain technology offers opportunities for greater transparency and security in the bed banking sector. By using a decentralized and immutable ledger, transactions can be recorded securely and transparently. This can help reduce fraud and increase trust between bed banks, hotels, and customers. A blockchain-based system can also simplify administration. Contracts between bed banks and hotels can be recorded in smart contracts that are automatically executed when certain conditions are met. This can increase efficiency and reduce the potential for human error.  
Demand for personalization
  Consumers increasingly expect personalized travel experiences. Sofa beds that are able to effectively use data to create tailored offerings will be better able to meet these expectations. However, this requires significant investments in data analytics and customer relationship management. Personalization goes beyond just offering tailored offers. It also includes providing personalized customer service and anticipating customer needs and preferences. Bed banks need to invest in advanced customer relationship management (CRM) systems and data analytics tools to gain an in-depth understanding of their customers&#8217; behavior and preferences. This enables them to proactively respond to their customers&#8217; desires and provide a superior customer experience.  
Direct bookings
  There is a growing trend of direct bookings, with hotels trying to bypass the middlemen, such as sofa beds. To remain relevant, bed banks must continue to add value beyond just offering beds. This can be done through exclusive deals, additional services, and improving the user experience. Bed banks can differentiate themselves by offering exclusive offers and promotions that are not available through direct bookings. This may include, for example, discounts, free upgrades, or additional services that are only available to customers who book through the bed bank. Additionally, bed banks can add value by providing a seamless and user-friendly booking experience, supported by excellent customer service.  
Consolidators
  Partnering with consolidators provides travel professionals with access to a wider range of properties and services. Consolidators combine different sofa beds and suppliers, resulting in a comprehensive and streamlined offer. This can simplify the way travel professionals work and assist them in providing more diverse and personalized travel options to their clients. Consolidators play an important role in centralizing the supply and simplifying the booking process. By combining different sofa beds and suppliers, consolidators can offer a wider range of options and make the process more efficient. This is especially helpful for travel agents who are looking for a comprehensive solution that allows them to meet the diverse needs of their customers.  
Sustainable tourism
  Bed banks are playing an increasingly important role in promoting sustainable tourism. By partnering with hotels that embrace sustainable practices, bed banks can have a positive impact on the environment. This collaboration can range from supporting energy efficiency programs to reducing plastic use and promoting local communities. Travelers are becoming increasingly aware of their carbon footprint and are increasingly choosing accommodations that are committed to sustainability. Bed banks can capitalize on this trend by highlighting their sustainable partners and promoting green initiatives. The focus on sustainability is not only a trend, but also a necessity for the future of the travel industry. Bed banks that are committed to sustainability can differentiate themselves from their competitors and build a loyal customer base. This can be done by offering eco-friendly accommodations, but also by promoting sustainable activities and excursions. Bed banks can also work with local communities to promote sustainable tourism and support the local economy.  
Indispensable
  Bed sofas have become an indispensable part of the modern travel industry. Through their ability to provide flexibility, convenience, and a wide range of options, they have transformed the way travel is booked and sold. At the same time, they face challenges, such as pressure on margins and insolvency risks, as well as opportunities such as technological innovations and the growing demand for sustainable tourism. For travel professionals, it&#8217;s essential to stay up-to-date on these developments and adjust their business strategies accordingly.
The post Special Bed Sofas: How They&#8217;re Transforming the Travel Industry appeared first on TravMagazine.
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                        <title>Special Insurances: &#8216;Customers are increasingly erring on the side of caution&#8217;</title>

            <link>https://www.travmagazine.nl/en/special-insurances-customers-are-increasingly-erring-on-the-side-of-caution/</link>
            <comments>https://www.travmagazine.nl/en/special-insurances-customers-are-increasingly-erring-on-the-side-of-caution/#respond</comments>

            <pubDate>Fri, 14 Jun 2024 11:44:06 +0000</pubDate>

            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Theo de Reus]]></dc:creator>

            		<category><![CDATA[Magazine]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Special]]></category>

            <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.travmagazine.nl/special-insurances-customers-are-increasingly-erring-on-the-side-of-caution/</guid>

            
            <description><![CDATA[
There&#8217;s a lot going on in the world of travel insurers. Foreign airlines entering the Dutch market and existing parties that want to strengthen cooperation with partners in the travel industry. In this special, TravMagazine lists the developments. HanseMerkur spends six months in the Netherlands &#8216;We are growing faster than expected&#8217; Last autumn, Jasper Wiersema &hellip; Lees verder            ]]></description>

            
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[
There&#8217;s a lot going on in the world of travel insurers. Foreign airlines entering the Dutch market and existing parties that want to strengthen cooperation with partners in the travel industry. In this special, TravMagazine lists the developments.  HanseMerkur spends six months in the Netherlands
&#8216;We are growing faster than expected&#8217;
Last autumn, Jasper Wiersema started his new adventure as country manager for the Netherlands of HanseMerkur: launching the German travel insurer HanseMerkur on the market. &#8220;We&#8217;re not a startup that wants to capture market share quickly,&#8221; he said at the time. Six months later, he talks about his findings.  &#8220;Our focus has not changed: we are here for the longer term and our goal is to build long-term and high-quality customer relationships,&#8221; says Wiersema. &#8216;Rapid growth is not and was not a goal, but we were still surprised by the high demand, after the interview in TravMagazine, our presence at the Vakantiebeurs and at TravDay. Insurance remains a difficult subject and there is a great need for personal contact to be able to present all questions calmly. All in all, we are growing faster than expected.&#8217;
Do you notice that there is a crowding out market when it comes to travel insurance?&#8216;Of course, there are existing collaborations in the field of insurance. We focus on ourselves and the added value that we offer as HanseMerkur. A travel agent is not an insurance agency, his or her expertise is putting together a beautiful travel experience. The insurance is an important addition. On the one hand, it gives peace of mind to make the journey even more carefree, on the other hand, as an extra income. We make insurance easy, with personal support through our partner desk.&#8217;   Jasper Wiersema (HanseMerkur), Joke Maassen (Travelproof) and Elyne Out (Hansemerkur) on TravDay
What questions do you hear about insurance in the market?  &#8216;They are so numerous and varied that we could talk for hours. I do have a few examples: for example, we were approached by a provider of active travel. He ran into the fact that sports equipment must always be insured against damage, loss and theft as an additional amount. For us, this is already included in the standard premium. Speaking of active: people often don&#8217;t think about the fact that you do things on holiday that an insurer sees as risky sports. This is well known from scuba diving and skiing, but what if your client turns out to be trail running on their own initiative, doing a via ferrata or deciding to go horseback riding? These are often seen as risky and therefore exempted sports, while it is insured as standard with us.&#8217; &#8216;You can also benefit from our broader conditions with the cancellation insurance. We received the question from someone with a customer who asked if the death of his old dog could be insured. Normally, the cancellation insurance is limited to illness and death of yourself and/or close relatives. With us, illness, accident or death of the dog or cat is also insured.&#8217;  
Infotorial
AXA on the future of travel insurance
  After global unrest, conflicts and threatening natural phenomena, is today&#8217;s traveller definitively convinced that it is better to leave well insured on his trip? Or will we go back to the situation before corona? Joeri Marien, Sales and Marketing Director Benelux, is happy to give a fresh perspective on the situation regarding travel insurance.  What do travelers currently expect from their travel insurance?  &#8216;Flexibility and peace of mind. From this point of view, customers once again find good travel insurance more important and take out a policy more often, with better guarantees. The discrepancy between what people think they need in a travel policy and what they actually use has narrowed. Consumers&#8217; time is scarce. The digitization of the travel sector is therefore continuing: travelers prefer to buy all travel products in one place and in one click. From plane tickets to the hotel and the amusement park on day five. And of course also their travel insurance, which offers coverage from the next day. One thing is certain: the pandemic has made travellers aware of the importance of good cancellation insurance; That way, he or she can book the trip with confidence, covered against possible setbacks.&#8221;  Which risks weigh most heavily in travel insurance?  &#8220;A few years ago, travellers often attached the most importance to cover against baggage loss or cancellation. Now they realize that a lost suitcase is not the worst thing that can happen to you. Even a trip that is canceled doesn&#8217;t mean the end of the world. You&#8217;ve lost the experience (and the money) &#8211; and that&#8217;s a shame, of course &#8211; but it doesn&#8217;t cost you anything extra either. It&#8217;s different when you&#8217;re unlucky enough to end up in an American hospital or have to be repatriated from Bali. The chance is small, but the financial consequences are all the more serious. Sometimes people never recover from those skyrocketing costs. Travellers are once again focusing on what really matters and are willing to pay for peace of mind and comfort. We also see that the media are paying more and more attention to those unfortunate stories in which people without travel insurance get into trouble abroad and end up in a horror story.&#8217;  Yuri Marien
Travel remains potentially problematic with cancelled flights, a lack of rental cars, forest fires, heat, flooding&#8230; What impact does this have?  &#8216;We clearly notice that people are erring on the side of caution. They are more likely to book through a recognized travel agency and take out travel insurance to make sure they are helped. But if, despite everything, everything goes relatively smoothly next summer, it may just as well happen that travelers will be less inclined to take out travel insurance in the long run. We&#8217;ll have to wait and see.&#8217;  What has been the biggest challenge for travel insurers in recent years?  &#8216;We were confronted with a number of issues that even we were not prepared for. Not everything is written down in procedures and general terms and conditions. So we had to make decisions based not on rules, but on our partnership promise to our Business Partners and our mission to help people where needed. To do this, we often had to react very quickly and immediately launch new internal procedures, activate them and ensure that all the necessary employees were informed.&#8217;  What are the challenges for the future that you are currently working on?  &#8216;We co-create with our Business Partners, detect the challenges together with them and build new services for their end customers. This allows us to respond quickly to changing situations. To some mishaps while traveling. In addition, there was an increase in requests for reimbursement of costs. This is due to cancellations, costs incurred by the customers themselves in the event of a problem situation, et cetera.&#8217;  What evolution have you seen in travel insurance?  &#8220;People want to be more covered, no matter what travel experience they&#8217;re looking for. That is why we are also committed to insuring all these extra activities. For example, if you want to try canyoning in Madeira, as a traveler you also want to trust that you will be helped in case of problems. Or if you have an unfortunate fall off-piste while skiing, that your insurer will bear the costs and bring your family and you back home safely. With, of course, the possibility that people can quickly and easily organize everything together. Hence the importance of always integrating travel insurance as well as possible into the purchasing process of our Business Partners.&#8217;  
&nbsp;
Infotorial
Allianz Partners: Insurance is more than just financial compensation
  Allianz Partners has been working with the travel industry for years. Coby Tetteroo (Director of Sales): &#8216;It&#8217;s been quite a few years since we were called Elvia. And a lot has changed since then. But we are still a trusted partner of the travel industry.&#8221; The fact that Allianz Partners is always looking for solutions has become apparent during the corona pandemic. A voucher scheme for cancellation insurance was quickly developed and as the world opened up step by step, our insurance policies were enriched with quarantine covers. &#8216;We have now had a normal year and are now entering a second season. This ensures that we will also take steps towards the future,&#8217; says Tetteroo. Global Relief Efforts With its own emergency centres in 36 countries and four Medical Global Competence Centres (MGCCs), Allianz Partners is a global emergency service provider. &#8216;The advantage of this expertise in all countries is that you can best help the Dutch customer with local medical knowledge. After all, it&#8217;s easier to switch between a local doctor and a hospital than with a Dutch doctor,&#8217; says Tetteroo. &#8216;What makes us unique is that we use this local medical expertise to feed our knowledge system. Thanks to structured audits at local hospitals, we can determine the quality, and all care providers have direct insight into whether a hospital is suitable to provide medical care to your customer or whether it is better to repatriate to another hospital.&#8217; One of the Medical Global Competence Centers is located in Brussels. This is where the complex requests for help are handled. They also provide aid to countries such as the United Kingdom, France and Spain. We work closely with the MGCC in Canada, where all requests for help in North America are handled. Tetteroo: &#8216;About half of all gross medical costs on travel insurance are incurred in the United States. It is customary there to negotiate the price of medical assistance. The experience and scale of our MGCC in Canada give us a unique position in this regard. This helps us to keep travel to the U.S. insurable.&#8221; Challenges in 2024 The development of medical costs will remain a challenge in 2024. &#8216;In the United States, you can easily pay twenty times the Dutch rate for medical treatment. On the one hand, this is an important selling point for travel insurance, but at the same time it is also a challenge to keep the insurance affordable. That is why we make a distinction on our short-term travel insurance between World coverage including or excluding North America.&#8217; Another challenge is the development of the increasing claim burden on cancellation insurance. &#8216;This is partly due to the fact that more and more older people have the time and money to travel on continuous travel insurance. But we also see that dynamic packaging is being used more and more often, deviating from the ANVR scale. We are often confronted with non-refundable booking elements, which means that we have to pay out more than before,&#8217; says Tetteroo. Digital travel companion allyz In addition to the developments in API links, such as BAS by Fadiro, and at product level, Allianz Partners announced the introduction of digital services at the beginning of this year. These services have been offered by Allianz in the United States for some time. &#8220;The advantage of a global organization is that you share the development capacity and can apply proven successes in multiple countries. However, it is necessary to use the same back-office system worldwide, so that the digital services can connect seamlessly. We are currently working hard to connect the Netherlands to this system as well. Although the system migration is unfortunately not entirely without a struggle, we are convinced that it will result in a better service. We also see the success in the countries around us that preceded us in the transition to the new system, such as Germany and France,&#8217; says Tetteroo.  &nbsp;
&#8216;You can now try Allyz for free&#8217;
  The digital travel companion allyz consists of two parts: Travel and Cyber. It is explicitly not a transactional app, but purely focused on service. In the Travel section, users can enter an itinerary, which provides real-time information about flight delays and gate changes. In the event of a flight delay, the insured will be granted access to the lounge and will be notified if they are eligible for compensation. In addition, customers will find in the app a medical section with a symptom checker, the possibility to chat with a doctor and a hospital visitor. This makes it easier for customers to coordinate whether an on-site doctor&#8217;s visit is necessary and to find the right medical provider on site during his or her trip. The Cyber module is free to try, but will not be included in the travel insurance as standard. Customers can subscribe to it after a trial period. This includes a secure VPN, so customers can browse safely when using public Wi-Fi while on vacation. Tetteroo: &#8216;These new services fit very well with our identity as a care provider. Insurance is more than just offering financial compensation.&#8217;  

The post Special Insurances: &#8216;Customers are increasingly erring on the side of caution&#8217; appeared first on TravMagazine.
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                        <title>Special Ferries: Novelties and renewed ships. &#8216;Shipping companies expect a busy summer&#8217;</title>

            <link>https://www.travmagazine.nl/en/special-ferries-novelties-and-renewed-ships-shipping-companies-expect-a-busy-summer/</link>
            <comments>https://www.travmagazine.nl/en/special-ferries-novelties-and-renewed-ships-shipping-companies-expect-a-busy-summer/#respond</comments>

            <pubDate>Mon, 10 Jun 2024 12:00:55 +0000</pubDate>

            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Theo de Reus]]></dc:creator>

            		<category><![CDATA[Magazine]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Special]]></category>

            <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.travmagazine.nl/special-ferries-novelties-and-renewed-ships-shipping-companies-expect-a-busy-summer/</guid>

            
            <description><![CDATA[
Renewed ships and plenty of innovations, including in the field of sustainability. The ferry companies have a lot of novelties to report this season. It&#8217;s going to be a busy summer. Stena Line &#8216;Renewal of the ships is well received&#8217; Bookings for next summer have started energetically at Stena Line, with its Dutch headquarters in &hellip; Lees verder            ]]></description>

            
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[
Renewed ships and plenty of innovations, including in the field of sustainability. The ferry companies have a lot of novelties to report this season. It&#8217;s going to be a busy summer.  Stena Line
&#8216;Renewal of the ships is well received&#8217;
  Bookings for next summer have started energetically at Stena Line, with its Dutch headquarters in Hoek van Holland. &#8220;Despite an extensive renewal of the ships in the past winter period (docking period), we are seeing positive booking figures, also in the high season,&#8221; say Chris Weijers (Regional Marketing Manager) and Bryan Dijk (Commercial Manager Travel).  Where are the growth opportunities for Stena Line?  &#8216;There are opportunities for further growth, especially in the early and late season. An example of this is our &#8216;Rail &amp; Sail&#8217; product. This allows travelers to buy a combined ferry and train ticket. After arriving from Harwich International, you will travel by train to London Liverpool Street. In addition, due to the renewal of the ships, a larger capacity has been realized on day departures. Especially in the high season, we see this as a growth opportunity. In addition, we are open to more intensive cooperation with existing and new (retail) partners. With this, we want to continue to grow in the early and late season.&#8217;  The Stena Hollandica and Stena Britannica have been given a major makeover. What are the reactions of passengers?  &#8216;The innovation has been received positively. Passengers love the open spaces, extensive family amenities (Family Hub) and the Plus Lounge, where guests can sit quietly. The Family Hub features a play area and entertainment for children. The Plus Lounge can be booked at an additional cost (from 8 years old, ed.). This space comes with free snacks, drinks (non-alcoholic and house wine) and service.&#8217;  What&#8217;s next?    &#8216;During the renovation of the ships, explicit attention was paid to sustainability. For example, half of the furniture has been reused, the lighting has been replaced by LED lamps and environmentally friendly urinals have been installed. In addition, the underside of the ship is provided with a silicone paint that ensures that the ship experiences less resistance from the water. This saves us 774,000 litres of fuel per ship on an annual basis. At the same time as the ship was renewed, passenger capacity has also increased. The renewal of the ships is an important reason for the increase in the number of bookings this year.&#8217;  
How is the collaboration with the retail sector going?  &#8216;The cooperation with retail partners is going well. Our group bookings in particular, but also individual bookings, are the result of correct cooperation with various retail partners.&#8217;  Do you have any tips on how retail can sell you even better?    &#8216;Think of Stena Line on a tour of England. No stress at the airport, just enjoy the sea view. Travelers can take unlimited (as long as it fits in the car) luggage. In addition, &#8216;Rail &amp; Sail&#8217; is a product to offer to customers. For a city trip, you can easily combine the crossing with a connecting train journey from Harwich to London. Night sailings (10:00 pm – 6:30 am) do not require accommodation in London, and travelers can enjoy a full day in London. The holiday starts with us on board. Enjoy the view, snacks and drinks and tax-free shopping.&#8217;
Tour Stena Line offers travel agents a guided tour aboard the Stena Britannica or Stena Hollandica, to see the result of the refurbishment with their own eyes.  You can send an e-mail via contact.nl@stenaline.com.

Moby Lines
&#8216;A lot of last-minute bookings this year&#8217;
  &#8220;The Dutch market is a very important one for us, which can be seen on our website, on which we advertise partly in Dutch,&#8221; says Barbara Krahulik, managing director at Moby Lines Europe GmbH. &#8220;We work with the most important travel agencies and offer a very fast and clear reservation system via the internet. With independent ticket issuance, simple booking request and price calculation.&#8217; Krahulik indicates that the ferry provider is very satisfied with the current booking figures, noting that there are many last-minute bookings this year.
&#8216;In terms of target group, however, we have not noticed any major changes, families are and remain an important target group for us. In the early and late season, we see a lot of bookings from motorcyclists and motorhome owners.&#8217; Moby Lines certainly sees growth opportunities, as evidenced by the &#8216;significant increase in capacity&#8217; that took place this year.  Krahulik: &#8216;Including on the routes to Corsica. We also offer more cabins in general and on the Livorno-Olbia-Livorno route we operate the largest ferries in the world in Moby Fantasy and Legacy (newly built).  
V-Class
  What distinguishes the shipping company according to her? &#8220;We offer an exceptionally high quality of service, and on the new ships Moby Fantasy and Moby Legacy we also offer a new type of restoration. With Moby Night, we also offer the option of renting a cabin on the ship the night before departure on the Livorno-Bastia route and spend the night there. And for the discerning guest, the V-Class service. V-Class is a service that meets the needs of the most demanding customers. This is a special service linked to the purchase of a cabin or suite (V-Class) and consists of a package of exclusive services, including breakfast in the room or the American breakfast buffet with a pre-assigned table in the restaurant. The crossing starts in a cozy cabin or suite equipped with the best comforts: a relaxing shower, a little rest, perhaps in front of the TV, to start your vacation in the best possible way.&#8221;  
DFDS
&#8216;Renewed ships&#8217;
  The Danish shipping company DFDS presented its renewed King Seaways in IJmuiden this spring. All of the nearly 550 cabins on board have undergone a major makeover. This also applies to the almost 500 cabins of the Princess Seaways, which, like the King Seaways, sails on the route between IJmuiden and Newcastle in northern England. DFDS suffers from the luxury problem that the ships are fully booked fairly quickly during the high season, says Albertine Hofland, Global Sales Manager at DFDS. &#8216;This is especially true on the IJmuiden-Newcastle route and the Copenhagen/Fredrikshavn-Oslo route.&#8217;  
Puzzling
  This is mainly due to the fact that the car deck fills up quickly, as the number of places on the car deck is smaller than the number of cabins. &#8220;It is always a real challenge for us to transport tall vehicles such as motorhomes but also caravans, because the more high decks we need, the fewer places for regular vehicles. Since there is also some freight to be taken along, this means puzzling in the high season to be able to offer all types of travellers as much availability as possible in periods when there is more demand than supply.&#8217; As far as IJmuiden-Newcastle is concerned, the growth opportunities for DFDS lie mainly in Q1 and Q4 and weekdays in the off-season. &#8220;In addition, we can still grow in the number of people per cabin and also in terms of passenger mix. But there are still plenty of growth opportunities for the Dutch market on our other routes, especially the Baltic routes and on the English Channel.&#8217; The reactions to the renovated cabins on the IJmuiden-Newcastle ships have been very positive, says Hofland. &#8216;Of course, there are always people who expect the cabins to suddenly be much more spacious, but it was not possible to rebuild the ships in that way. Passengers particularly appreciate the fresher, more modern look of the cabins. A lot of bookings were already in before we could show the updated cabins, but we are ahead of last year, so we assume that it has certainly helped with the positive trend in the number of bookings.&#8221;  
Retail
  DFDS has resumed its cooperation with the retail sector, after a number of years of the retail commission being completely abolished. &#8216;A few years ago, just before corona, we reintroduced the committee. Travel agents are responding enthusiastically, especially now that more and more parties are refraining from giving commission. They also know how to find us better and better; We get quite a few requests for agent accounts. We also notice that people are increasingly looking for an alternative to flying because of sustainability.&#8217; When asked how agents can sell DFDS even better, Hofland says: &#8216;Even better collaboration may go hand in hand with getting to know our agent system better. And signing up for our (regular) newsletter, so that agents know what current offers there are for the direct market. In general, these can also be booked through agents. In addition, travel agents can also easily book our products through tour operators, both group travel and individual travel.&#8221;  

Tallink Silja Line
&#8216;Focus on the Netherlands&#8217;
  With summer approaching, Tallink Silja Line is looking more emphatically at the Dutch market. The shipping company wants to be more visible as the shipping company that transports holidaymakers to destinations in Finland, Sweden and the Baltic states. Tallink Silja Line has a fleet of fifteen ships on the Baltic Sea, which sail all year round, says sales manager Olga Vanbergen. Tallink Silja&#8217;s fleet carried more than 5.5 million passengers last year. The routes connect popular destinations such as Helsinki, Stockholm, Turku and Tallinn, with daily departures throughout the year. The shortest sailing time is two hours, coupled with a frequency of departures of up to six times a day on the Helsinki-Tallinn route. In addition, Tallink Silja Line has four premium hotels in Tallinn and Riga. The latest addition to the fleet is the ferry MyStar, built in Finland, the second ship to be powered by LNG. The ship has been awarded the Shippax Ro-Pax Interior Design Award 2023 for its guest comfort and sustainability standards.  P&amp;O Ferries  (Advertorial)  
P&amp;O was founded in 1837 and the first passenger services were introduced as early as 1844.  
  Now, in addition to its freight routes, P&amp;O Ferries sails Passengiers services from the EU to England. From Rotterdam daily with the cruise ferry to the North of England and from Calais 20+ times a day to the South of England. This year, P&amp;O Ferries has launched 2 new electric/hybrid vessels and the CO2 reduction is already 40%! Is your customer interested in a relaxed and more sustainable trip to Great Britain without baggage restrictions? P&amp;O Ferries is a smart choice! Discover the enchanting landscapes of the North York Moors National Park A hidden gem just 90 minutes away from your P&amp;O ferry port in Hull. The park stretches over more than 1400 km² of breathtaking moorland, ancient forests and rugged coastlines. Whether you&#8217;re looking for peace and quiet in the serene expanse of purple heather, adventure along the historic trails, or a scenic journey through charming villages, the North York Moors are for every type of explorer. Take in the rich flora and fauna, from majestic birds of prey to shy deer, and immerse yourself in the timeless history and heritage that reverberate through the ruins of ancient abbeys and castles. Perfect for families, couples, and solo adventurers, the North York Moors offer all the ingredients for a perfect day out or a longer, relaxing stay. With accessible walking routes, cosy country pubs and beautiful viewpoints, every moment is filled with possibilities. Plan your visit now! Hop off the P&amp;O ferry and into a fairytale landscape where the beauty of nature invites you to explore, relax and reconnect. The North York Moors await you &#8211; your adventure begins just 90 minutes after you arrive. www.poferries.com/nl/mini-cruises Send an email to agents@poferries.com or call +31 10 714 5439 to book. Passenger Sales Manager: Rob.van.kesteren@poferries.com +31 6 273 248 23


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The post Special Ferries: Novelties and renewed ships. &#8216;Shipping companies expect a busy summer&#8217; appeared first on TravMagazine.
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                        <title>Special River Cruises: &#8216;Greater demand for shorter, but luxury river cruises&#8217;</title>

            <link>https://www.travmagazine.nl/en/special-river-cruises-greater-demand-for-shorter-but-luxury-river-cruises/</link>
            <comments>https://www.travmagazine.nl/en/special-river-cruises-greater-demand-for-shorter-but-luxury-river-cruises/#respond</comments>

            <pubDate>Thu, 30 May 2024 11:55:31 +0000</pubDate>

            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Rahanna van Stapele]]></dc:creator>

            		<category><![CDATA[Magazine]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Special]]></category>

            <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.travmagazine.nl/special-river-cruises-greater-demand-for-shorter-but-luxury-river-cruises/</guid>

            
            <description><![CDATA[
Riverside Luxury Cruises, part of the company that also has the well-known hotel brand Seaside Collection in its portfolio, has recently started offering luxury river cruises and with success. To convince potential travellers, Kees Kooijmans makes 3D films on board the cruise ships. He takes potential passengers by the hand virtually. Riverside Collection &#8216;Ideal for &hellip; Lees verder            ]]></description>

            
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[
Riverside Luxury Cruises, part of the company that also has the well-known hotel brand Seaside Collection in its portfolio, has recently started offering luxury river cruises and with success. To convince potential travellers, Kees Kooijmans makes 3D films on board the cruise ships. He takes potential passengers by the hand virtually.  
Riverside Collection
&#8216;Ideal for travellers looking for a quick retreat&#8217;
  The fledgling cruise line Riverside Luxury Cruises was founded less than two years ago with the ambition to focus on the higher river cruise segment with various recently renovated ships. Andrea Kunze, Director Sales &amp; Marketing Europe at Riverside, says that this second official year of sailing, the cruise line is offering more than 170 departures on 52 different routes, with the duration of the voyages varying between 3 and 23 nights. &#8220;Our booking numbers are strong, with our 4-5 day river cruises proving to be particularly popular. These shorter trips offer guests the chance to enjoy personalized 24-hour butler service, exquisite meals, and unique excursions in a compact time frame. Its mix of luxurious accommodations and immersive experiences in scenic and historic locations appeals to travelers. In general, there is a high demand for our shorter, but equally luxurious river cruises.&#8221;  
Target audience
  Who mainly choose Riverside&#8217;s cruises to date? Kunze: &#8220;Our main target group consists of discerning travellers who are looking for luxury and personalised service on river cruises. This includes well-traveled individuals who appreciate high-end amenities, exclusive excursions, and gourmet dining. They value a boutique experience with a focus on comfort, privacy, and unique destinations. These travelers typically look for high-quality cruises that fit into their busy schedules while providing an immersive and unforgettable experience.&#8221; According to Kunze, the cruise line distinguishes itself from other river cruise operators by its &#8220;unparalleled focus on luxury and personalized service, unique experiences and star-level culinary offerings.&#8221; Riverside Mozart
Development
  Of course, the shipping company is still in the process of development and expansion, and therefore focuses mainly on guests who are looking for a luxury getaway without long-term commitments. &#8220;These flexible options are ideal for travelers who want to explore specific destinations or enjoy a quick retreat, which encourages bookings during quieter periods.&#8221; Kunze: &#8216;The Dutch market is certainly an interesting and important part of our business strategy. Our cooperation with retail partners is going well and we value our relationships.&#8217;  
River cruise ship in 3D
  &#8216;Virtually explore the ship&#8217;
  On a luxury river cruise on the Danube, scanning an entire ship for 3D videos. With this challenge, Kees Kooijmans (travel studio Travel Slide) boarded the Riverside Mozart on behalf of Captain Cruise to scan the entire ship with the Matterport Pro 3 camera. Among other things, he uses this to make 3D videos, which potential customers and agents can use to walk through the ship. As it were. Kooijmans boarded the ship in Passau for a short cruise to Vienna, including excursions. The Riverside Mozart is a spacious cruise ship, recently renovated and equipped with all conveniences and the latest gadgets, says Kooijmans. He mentions the lighting in the cabins, adjustable in four positions from bright to romantic, and as a surprising experience the heated toilet seat&#8230; The ship has spacious cabins of at least 20 square meters and the service level is high. The Riverside Mozart can accommodate up to 135 passengers and 90 crew members. The ship has four decks, four restaurants (for breakfast, late breakfast, lunch and dinner), a wellness area and a large gym. Along the way, Kooijmans visited the abbey in the town of Melk on the Danube, a Unesco World Heritage Site and one of Austria&#8217;s biggest tourist attractions. He also took a walk through Vienna. &#8216;For me, I had to get up at half past six every day, to scan the ship completely without people. But breakfast, at a table by the window with a view of the passing landscape, made up for a lot.&#8217;  
3D scans
  Kooijmans&#8217; challenge: during this cruise, scanning the entire ship with his Matterport Pro 3 camera, a special camera with six lenses, which rotates six times per scan. &#8216;The best part is the 3D presentation that makes it possible to walk over and through the ship via your phone or computer screen.&#8217; Finally, Kooijmans&#8217; opinion after his trip: &#8216;In my view, a river cruise is less massive and more personal. A big advantage is that you always see land and the risk of getting seasick is minimal. It&#8217;s a fascinating city trip to different places, no traffic jams and without packing and unpacking your bags.&#8217;  
CroisiEurope
&#8220;With 52 ships, we can offer flexible solutions.&#8221;
&nbsp;  Since the shipping company is already present on all the main rivers in Europe, CroisiEurope&#8217;s growth opportunities lie not so much in expanding the destinations but more in making the product known &#8216;river cruises&#8217;, says Managing Director Gualtiero Togneri. &#8216;In some countries, the river product is still unknown, just like in the Netherlands. In Amsterdam, more than 2000 stops are made every year with masses of foreign tourists, but the Dutch themselves have hardly discovered the product yet.&#8217;  
Bookings
  Togneri says that summer is not necessarily the most important season for river cruises, and that it is precisely during this time that you can pick up great promos for customers, especially for families with children under the age of sixteen who can travel for free. &#8220;Because of the variety of our destinations, more than 170 routes in 37 countries, you can sail all year round. 2024 is already well booked – with 2019 already past 22% – and sales for 2025 are in full swing. One of the best-selling cruises is from Porto on the Danube towards Salamanca, between the Portuguese vineyards and five of the most beautiful locks in Europe. You have to book almost a year in advance for that.&#8217;  
Theme cruises
  Finally, he says that the Rhine and Danube cruises often attract an older audience due to the short distances and easy accessibility of cities, among other things. But other destinations such as the islands of Croatia, the French canals and rivers or distant destinations such as the Mekong or southern Africa attract a younger audience. &#8216;In addition, themed cruises are an important part of our offer. Think of musical cruises (e.g. with opera performance in Verona), Biennale in Venice, bridge cruises, French wine tastings or gastronomic cruises. Our ships with a limited capacity of 20 to 200 pax are ideal for this.&#8217;  
advantages
  Booking with a large shipping company like CroisiEurope has its advantages, according to Togneri. &#8216;With 52 vessels, we can offer a flexible solution in the event of low (or high) water levels. Instead of cancelling a cruise, we can switch passengers to another ship. Other advantages are our standard all-in with free drinks at the table and bar, French gastronomy and the possible use of Dutch guides.&#8217;  
cooperation
  &#8216;We currently have a cooperation agreement with Captain Cruise and Bookunited, but unfortunately the current Dutch market is still driven by the high demand from end customers for sea cruises that are doing extremely well. A river cruise, which is still unknown to the retail sector, is not going to be offered as a fully-fledged alternative to a package holiday any time soon. Every agency has customers from the age of 40 in their database and they are eligible for our product. We have a repeater rate of 78% within three years.&#8217;  
Practical tips
  &#8216;Within our collaboration with agents, we generally give higher commissions than what is applied on average in the market. Give our product a chance, for example by visiting a ship when our ship is in Amsterdam. A supervisor from the agency or someone else will join for free. We can send out a joint mailing for something like this. You can also contact us for other marketing proposals or collaborations.&#8217;  
Advertorial  
With the Jong Intra Vakanties on the water
  River cruises: a special way to travel For many people, a river cruise is the ultimate combination of holiday and relaxation. You will be welcomed on board, unpack your suitcase once and make a tour of beautiful places. Through the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany and France and across the Danube. From short cruises close by to 17-day cruises far into Europe. A river cruise is the ideal way to see a lot by traveling at a relaxed pace. For example, you don&#8217;t have to worry about the routes, parking, and packing and unpacking your suitcase. Throughout the year, our team of specialists is looking for new ships and sailing routes. The team looks at the environment and the possibilities and, together with the shipping companies, they take care of the implementation of new programs. The programs of the existing trips are also reviewed every year. The range of river cruises within our portfolio is extensive. We offer cruises by:  

The Netherlands and Belgium
Germany
Across the Danube
Across the Seine and Rhõne
Christmas (Market) &amp; New Year&#8217;s Cruises

  De Jong Intra Vakanties has seen an increase in the popularity of Christmas, Christmas market and New Year&#8217;s cruises in recent years. Singles, girlfriends and couples who love to escape the hustle and bustle of Christmas at home and immerse themselves in the Christmas atmosphere of a city. During the Christmas period, the ships are completely transformed into a Christmas atmosphere. While enjoying a delicious drink and cozy music, the Christmas experience is central. De Jong Intra Vakanties offers a varied range of cruise ships. We offer 3-, 4-, and 5-star ships. Today&#8217;s ships are extremely comfortable and the kitchen brigades are perfectly trained. It doesn&#8217;t matter which ship you&#8217;re staying on, the crew is there for you. The advantages of a river cruise are great. Besides the fact that it is the ultimate way to travel carefree and relaxed, it is a big plus that the hotel travels with you. Meals are included and conviviality is guaranteed with onboard entertainment. The crew members are available 24/7. There is always a maximum number of passengers on board, so you don&#8217;t get the feeling that the ship is crowded. Finally, the river cruises have fixed prices and guaranteed departures.  © de Jong Intra
Featured: mps Horizon
  A cruise with the family mps Horizon offers an unforgettable experience. On this popular and comfortable ship, which makes many departures for the Jong Intra Vakanties, we welcome many regular and many new guests every year. Bea, our tour guide, welcomes the guests with open arms and shows them around the ship and is there for all questions from fellow travelers. This way, your customer always has a point of contact for de Jong Intra Vakanties on board. The ship has three decks: the sun deck, the central hall and the promenade deck. On the promenade deck is a spacious lounge with a large bar and dance floor. Once a week, a musician on board provides a pleasant evening with live music (on the other evenings there are quizzes and entertainment). The elegant cabins have a modern and spacious appearance. The cabins all have a television, air conditioning, Wi-Fi, safe, large windows that can be opened and a bathroom with shower, toilet and sink. In short, a very relaxed way of travelling with all facilities together. To start the river cruise well-rested, it is possible to book a pre-night. The staff is happy to help, take you to your cabin where you will stay for the entire cruise and in the evening it is possible to have a drink at the bar.  
Our tip
  The 8-day river cruise with the mps Horizon from Rotterdam. Step on board in Rotterdam and be enchanted by the Romantic Rhine. The large cities and picturesque villages along the Romantic Rhine are a feast for the eyes. The cities of Nijmegen, Düsseldorf, Andernach, Koblenz, Cologne and Duisburg are on the program. In short, you can book a river cruise with de Jong Intra Vakanties. View our entire range of river cruises on SmartOnline or in the river cruises brochure.  
Want to read more about River Cruises? Click here for the rest of this special  
&nbsp;
The post Special River Cruises: &#8216;Greater demand for shorter, but luxury river cruises&#8217; appeared first on TravMagazine.
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                        <title>Special River cruises with Feenstra Rijn Lijn: &#8216;You can&#8217;t just dig a new river&#8217;</title>

            <link>https://www.travmagazine.nl/en/special-river-cruises-you-cant-just-dig-a-new-river/</link>
            <comments>https://www.travmagazine.nl/en/special-river-cruises-you-cant-just-dig-a-new-river/#respond</comments>

            <pubDate>Thu, 30 May 2024 11:54:31 +0000</pubDate>

            <dc:creator><![CDATA[Theo de Reus]]></dc:creator>

            		<category><![CDATA[Magazine]]></category>
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            <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.travmagazine.nl/special-river-cruises-you-cant-just-dig-a-new-river/</guid>

            
            <description><![CDATA[
Since the departure of Nico Arnts in April 2023, Maurice Eltink and Roderik van Veelen have been at the helm of Feenstra Rijn Lijn together for exactly one year now. At the kick-off of the new summer season, they look back on a busy and eventful year. &#8220;We are following the course we had agreed &hellip; Lees verder            ]]></description>

            
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[
Since the departure of Nico Arnts in April 2023, Maurice Eltink and Roderik van Veelen have been at the helm of Feenstra Rijn Lijn together for exactly one year now. At the kick-off of the new summer season, they look back on a busy and eventful year. &#8220;We are following the course we had agreed upon, which is towards further growth and modernization of both the fleet and the back office.&#8221;  The conversation with Eltink and Van Veelen takes place on board the Serenade 1. With 120 passengers on board, the river cruise ship will open the 2024 summer season of Feenstra Rijn Lijn this Sunday. The ship is moored at the Rijnkade, a stone&#8217;s throw from Feenstra&#8217;s office. Or rather, a few stone&#8217;s throw away, because due to long-term work on the quay, the ships cannot moor in front of the door at the start of the season.  
Serenade 1
  Since this year, the Serenade 1 is the new addition to Feenstra Rijn Lijn. During a short tour, Van Veelen proudly shows the cabins, which he believes make the ship unique. All cabins measure at least 16 square meters and all have a bath and separate shower cubicle. The large lounge on the upper deck is the central meeting place for the passengers, with bar and dance floor. Those seeking peace and quiet can go to the large reading table in the library, for a good conversation or to read a book. However, experience shows that many guests seek out the sundeck to admire the ever-changing views. The deck contains plenty of chairs, both in the sun and shade. Passengers arrive well in advance of the designated time to board. It should be clear that everyone is looking forward to a few days of relaxing on the river where, we mention the cliché again, they see various cities along the way and only have to unpack their suitcase once. We are talking with a view of the river, where the Serenade 1 will move eastwards two hours later among the other ship traffic. The sun is shining. While the first passengers order their coffee at the bar of the restaurant, the first question for Eltink and Van Veelen is: have they had a lot of arguments in their first year as a management duo?  
&nbsp;
Setting the course
  Eltink laughs: &#8216;No, no, we set our course a year ago and we are still sticking to it. We spar a lot and good ideas come out of that.&#8217; Van Veelen: &#8216;We complement each other well. Due to his background at Feenstra, Maurice knows the tour operator side like no other, while I know the charter side well. I don&#8217;t want to say that we always agree with each other, but we are both empathetic enough to alternately give or take when it comes to decisions.&#8217; And with a big smile: &#8216;Actually, as it should be in a good marriage.&#8217; Since the takeover by a new (Swiss) shareholder two years ago, Feenstra Rijn Lijn&#8217;s business model has changed. Previously, the ship owners were joint shareholders of Feenstra, which served as an umbrella sales organisation. &#8216;We have now become a shipping company as well as a tour operator,&#8217; says Eltink. Feenstra now sails with five ships. Three of them are self-published: the Serenade 1, the Johann Strauss and Rembrandt van Rijn. In addition, there are the Horizon and Salvinia, with a captain who also owns the ships.  
Innovations
  The management duo looks back on a year full of changes and innovations. For example, a new reservation system was rolled out, which was ready just in time for the publication of the 2024 summer brochures, which were ready in September last year. &#8216;We were able to present the new brochure at the 50PlusBeurs in September instead of the usual week before Christmas. It has brought us more bookings, especially for the first trips in the spring. So this year we will be publishing our brochure again in September.&#8217; The new ships of Feenstra Rijn Lijn have a capacity of up to 144 passengers. That is more than 20 more than the ships with 100 to 120 beds of the past. Out of a total of 30 sailings, that adds up considerably. Eltink and Van Veelen stick to the agreed policy that the fleet will be expanded with a new ship every year. Number six will follow next year. Van Veelen already has one in mind and promises more details soon. &#8216;You don&#8217;t just pull a new ship out of the closet. We are looking for a modern ship, just like our latest ships, with panoramic windows and hotel beds instead of folding beds in the cabins,&#8217; says Eltink, who emphasizes that Feenstra&#8217;s traditional ships are also equipped with every comfort and are still immensely popular. &#8220;These ships have a loyal number of passengers. They are people who take a cruise on the same ship every year and sometimes meet up with passengers they met on a previous trip.&#8217;  &nbsp;
Target audience
  Which brings the conversation to another cliché: isn&#8217;t a river cruise something for seniors and shouldn&#8217;t you as a shipping company desperately need to work on rejuvenation? The two directors shook their heads. &#8216;The Netherlands now has about 7 million people aged 50 years or older. The target group is therefore large enough. What you do see, however, is that today&#8217;s seniors have different wishes. They are more active than the older target group of the past,&#8217; says Van Veelen.  
&#8216;A river cruise is an easy product to sell&#8217;
  Eltink adds: &#8216;Let there be no mistake about it, the reality is that people from our senior target group eventually drop out. That&#8217;s why you have to recruit new recruits from the bottom up, especially given the growth plans we have with Feenstra. And to be honest, I would like to shave a few years off the age of the newcomers. That&#8217;s why I would like to focus more on the younger, older ones.&#8217;  
Retail
  Feenstra Rijn Lijn is a loyal partner of the retail sector, which still accounts for almost half of its turnover. Both sales channels, both directly and through the agent, are showing growth, says Eltink. &#8216;A river cruise is an easy product to sell. As an agent, you have to know the product. Last year, we invited a few large chains to our open days on board the ships. A river cruise may not seem like the sexiest product to sell, but there are many options beyond the regular trips. Last autumn, one of our ships was chartered for three days for a company party from Rotterdam for a mini cruise to Antwerp, complete with an opening party with DJ and a closing captain&#8217;s dinner with another party evening. There you saw people of all ages.&#8217;   
River or sea cruise
  And then there is the chicken-and-egg question: is a river cruise a first step towards a sea cruise or the other way around? Eltink shakes his head. &#8216;It often happens that people opt for a river cruise after a few years of sea cruises. At least they won&#8217;t have to fly all the way to Miami.&#8217; Van Veelen: &#8216;There is a slight overlap, but otherwise they are two different target groups. In a sea cruise, the ship is often more the destination, while a river cruise is more of a tour of various cities. And we sail partly during the day, so you can enjoy the view on deck, with the panorama changing every five minutes.&#8217; And while we&#8217;re at it, we&#8217;re trying to clear up misunderstandings: a river cruise is not a group trip in which participants are condemned to each other, says Van Veelen. &#8216;As a passenger, you can go your own way. If we moor along the way, you can join our excursion, but you can also explore a city individually.&#8217;  
Regular customers
  As mentioned, Feenstra Rijn Lijn has a large number of regular customers. The percentage of repeaters is between 60 and 70 percent, both direct customers and through travel agencies. &#8216;There is a risk that you will sit back. That is why we continue to actively recruit new recruits and continue to innovate,&#8217; says Van Veelen. Eltink adds: &#8216;The tricky thing is that you can&#8217;t just dig a new river for a new shipping route. But we can renew all the ingredients of our cruises from time to time, such as with new excursions along the way, so that our regular customers also discover something new. And with a longer berth in the ports we visit, we are responding to the wishes of the new generation of passengers who want more time to discover.&#8217;  
Who are&#8230;
Maurice Eltink has been working at Feenstra Rijn Lijn since 2009, including more than a year as co-director.  Roderik van Veelen was previously Managing Director at Select Voyages and Cruise Commerce. Together with Eltink, he has been on the board of directors of Feenstra Rijn Lijn for over a year now.  Want to read more about river cruises? Read more here&#8230;
The post Special River cruises with Feenstra Rijn Lijn: &#8216;You can&#8217;t just dig a new river&#8217; appeared first on TravMagazine.
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