NEWS FROM UK MEMBERS
Avianca Airlines Travelers around the world recognized the quality of service and exceptional experience offered by Avianca selecting it as the “Best Airline in South America” at the 2018 Skytrax World Airline Awards. This is the eighth time the has company received this award. Avianca also received the award for “Best Economy Class in the Region” and ranked 51st in the Top 100 ranking of best airlines in the world. www.avianca.com
Copa Airlines has opened reservations for its latest route addition in Argentina, as the airline plans Panama City – Salta service. Subject to Government Approval, Copa will operate this route twice a week from 12DEC18, on board Boeing 737-800 aircraft. Schedule – Outbound CM122 PTY 16:10hs – 23:51hs SLA / Inbound CM123 SLA 02:41hs – 06:26hs PTY. Email info@copaair.eu
Faremine Booking Incentives. Your Indian Summer Awaits + Back to School beckons! During AUGUST, you could WIN free tickets on Jet Airways and up to £50 Love2shop vouchers plus fluffy Faremine beach towels with Singapore Airlines. ALL bookings for each airline go into the prize draws. SEPTEMBER – incredible incentives on FOUR airlines timetabled in to WIN luxurious “back to school” essentials including designer shoes, commuter backpack, top technology and much more! www.faremine.com
Footprint have a brand new website! Head over to www.footprinttravelguides.com to check out the new site, packed full of inspiring articles, travel tips and beautiful images. This month has also seen the publication of our new Ecuador & Galápagos Handbook. Meticulously researched by Ben Box and Sarah Cameron, this new edition features a full-colour planning and advice section on the extraordinary Galápagos Islands.
Iberia’s first A350 flight from Madrid landed at London Heathrow on 20 July. It is configured with 31 business class seats, 24 premium economy seats, and 293 economy seats and will fly between Madrid and London on selected weeks between July and August and then from Madrid to New York City. Iberia’s new planes are also good for the environment with fuel consumption and CO2 emissions 25% lower than similar aircraft. www.iberia.com
Network GSA: New Route: Lima – Chachapoyas LC Peru will introduce a new route starting from 30 August 2018. Lima to Chachapoyas will operate twice a week on a Thursday and Sunday. Chachapoyas is located in Northern Peru and currently can only be reached by road. The area is steeped in history and surrounded by ancient ruins that could rival Machu Pichu. Flights and fares are available now through GDS’s.
Talking Stick Marketing South America partner updates. Chile: Patagonia Camp & La Casona at Matetic Vineyards launch new joint Wine & Nature programme with special rate & inclusions. Galapagos: some last-minute availability for September 2018 cruises on Galapagos Sea Star Journey & Seaman Journey. Argentina: Estancia Los Potreros has re-opened for the new season rates are now available through to end of 2019. For more information contact oonagh@talkingstickmktg.co.uk
Wanderlust Great Latin America Experiences supplement. Wanderlust celebrates its 25th anniversary with the November issue (on sale in October). The magazine was originally conceived on a trip to Latin America and the region had proved to one of the most popular parts of the world with the readership. So, it’s only fitting that with the anniversary issue we celebrate the best of Latin America with a special supplement which readers will want to keep, and will inspire them to visit or revisit the region. There will be a marketing and PR campaign around the issue, and an extra big print run. So don’t miss out on sponsorship, ads and content marketing opportunities. Contact Anthony Bennett for more details: anthony.bennett@wanderlust.co.uk, 020 3771 7203
NEWS FROM THE REGION
REGION-WIDE
Aurora Expeditions: Solo Traveller options on Aurora Expeditions For many years Aurora Expeditions have provided a ‘No Single Supplement’ option, allowing passengers travelling alone the opportunity to join our voyages without the added expense of a single supplement. Making the ‘big trip’ on your own has never been easier and we believe our small group expeditions provide the key elements of a great expedition: adventure, fun and peace of mind. Click here for more details, or contact craig@auroraexpeditions.co.uk
Condor Travel – INFINITY. INFINITY is an undeniable synonym for luxury. This Condor Travel product portfolio gathers the most elegant and exclusive activities in South America, with the goal of offering passengers a truly unique and memorable travel experience. This brand provides visitors the chance of discovering the most luxurious aspects of the continent, through visits to exclusive sites, lunch and dinner at renowned restaurants and all-around first-class service and attention to detail. www.condortravel.com
Pure Central America Central America – As green as it gets! With the rainy season already showering several areas of Central America, the region offers an impressive green spectacle throughout. Surrounded by majestic volcanoes and striking lakes, the jungles in Central America invite visitors to experience exciting activities to be closer to nature than ever. Birdwatching, rappelling, kayaking and hiking are among the activities that allow travellers to enjoy the peace of the lush Central American forests, crammed with diverse wildlife.
Truecolors Travel: A magnificent getaway with Trains & Coffee in Ecuador, Colombia, and Panama: Truecolors Travel introduces its new small group tour “Trains and Coffee in Ecuador, Colombia and Panama.” We travel with a small group across the still unknown northwestern region of South America using trains whenever possible. The trip is rich in contrasts combining high Andean cultures and good vibes of the Caribbean. www.railsouthamerica.com
Argentina
National Institute of Promotion in Argentina Buenos Aires, ready to receive the Youth Olympic Games From July 26th, the Olympic flame has illuminated the Argentinian capital while the whole world waits for the Youth Olympic Games. The competition will take place from October 6th to 18th. Buenos Aires 2018 will be the place for 32 sports and 36 disciplines and 1250 medals will be awarded. This event will be historical for Argentina and Latin America. Click here for more information.
BELIZE
Albee Adventures: Honeymoon on a private island in Belize. Celebrate your honeymoon on a private island and have a unique and restful, romantic experience that you will never forget. Discover your own private island in Belize, where paradise and luxury come together as one. We invite you to spend your evenings enchanted and your days engulfed in the Caribbean waters that surround each private villa. A completely private island that can be yours alone for a romantic getaway.
BOLIVIA
Bolivia Milenaria.- New product – Deluxe Glamping Bolivia. Our luxury tents are just one more innovation in our constant search to make unique experiences for clients, making it a real delight to get close up to jaguars and pink dolphins in the jungle, caves and dinosaur footprints in the valleys and amazing landscapes in the Andes. Each of the tents is fully equipped for comfort, including a comfy bed and good toilet facilities. www.boliviamilenaria.com
Crillon Tours: The UNESCO published the results of a fascinating research of the underground in Tiwanaku, using drones and satellite sampling. Over a hundred small circular and rectangular structures of domestic units, several pits, canals and roads will change the vision of Tiwanaku. To enrich visits to the area, Crillon Tours’ Hydrofoil cruises on the small side of Lake Titicaca, are now connecting Tiwanaku via Guaqui to/from Huatajata. Peru/Bolivia itineraries on request.
CHILE
Cascada Expediciones/EcoCamp Patagonia In 2020 a solar eclipse will darken the sky across South America. Chile will be one of the best places in the world to witness it, and to mark this special occasion Cascada have put together a special package containing all of their signature trip highlights, so expect plenty of trekking, volcano climbing, hot spring soaking and glacier visits. A modified itinerary has also been created for families. Click here for details.
Protours – Self-drive - Travelers can discover freedom on wheels and enjoy the best of Chile and Argentina’s Patagonia. The 19-day Grand Patagonia self-drive features highlights such as Torres del Paine National Park, the Perito Monero Glacier, the Fitzroy Massif, General Carrera Lake, Pumalín Park, Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park, and much more. Contact Protours now for starting rates and more information.
Remota Hotel has launched its promotion “Free Additional Night, valid only for those guests on an All-Inclusive Program of 3, 4, 5 or 6 nights, who will be offered an additional night free of charge. Please note that this promotion only applies to stays during the months of September and October 2018 & March, April and May 2019. For more information on this promotion, please contact at saleseuro@remota.net
Skorpios Cruises has launched a special promotion for Christmas Sailing 2018 of both routes, with reduced prices on all decks and cabins, as well as the gratuity of children under 10 years sharing cabin with two adults (1 free child in the case of the Kaweskar Route (December 25-28), and 2 free children in the case of the Chonos Route (December 22-27)). For more details, please contact at michel@skorpios.cl
COLOMBIA
Colombian Journeys HELICOPTER TOURS IN CARTAGENA. Cartagena is one of the main cities of Colombia and one of the most internationally recognized due to its history and beautiful architecture. By helicopter, you will have the possibility to fly over the Historical Center, Bocagrande, Laguito, Castillogrande, Ciénaga de la Virgen, Isla de Tierra Bomba and Islas Del Rosario. For more information, please contact us marketing@colombianjourneys.com
Travel Pioneers We treasure the wonders of Colombia and we are in good company! As of 2016, there are eight World Heritage Sites in Colombia. From the chocolate to the carnivals to celebrated author Gabriel Garcia Marquez, Colombia is remarkable whether you come to celebrate, regenerate, eat, or wander. If you’re an experimental traveler itching for plenty of adventure, we recommend turning your wanderlust on the coastal region nearing Tayrona National Park. Contact katrin@travel-pioneers.com for a real pioneer experience and custom designed itineraries!
COSTA RICA
Travel Excellence – Newly Renovated Gran Hotel Costa Rica, Curio Collection by Hilton. This 5-star hotel is considered to be an iconic gem in the heart of San José, close to the National Theatre and other main attractions in the capital city. The renovation combines the colonial beauty of the original building with a contemporary interior design and modern technology. Travel Excellence’s team has already visited the hotel so we can recommend it. Learn more about this and other properties here.
ECUADOR/GALAPAGOS
As of 10th September, all tourists entering Ecuador will be required to show evidence that they hold valid travel insurance for the duration of their stay. Source: Avianca
Casa Natura Galapagos Lodge – Scientists implement new strategy to save the Galápagos Mangrove Finch. Casa Natura Galapagos Lodge is pleased to share that scientists from the Charles Darwin Research Station have implement a new plan in order to save the Galapagos Mangrove Finch. This bird that inhabits Isabela Island is an endangered species that is threatened by introduced invasive species such as rats, cats and, especially, the parasitic fly Philornis Downsi, which attacks the finch chicks. Click here for full details.
Geo Reisen: Ecuador, the most bio diverse destination Thousands of endemic species and the most biodiverse place in the world, Yasuní National Park. Named a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Yasuní is home to the world’s most amazing flora and fauna in just 3,792 square miles. If your clients are interested in plants and animals, Ecuador is the perfect place for them. Biodiversity awaits them, ask for our itineraries!
GUATEMALA
Maya Trails – Guatemala/Belize/Honduras: Helicopter in Guatemala. Did you know that you can Helicopter around Guatemala? Ask for our scenic heli-tours, transfers, insider access where only helicopters can go, etc. We can design any itinerary with all or some heli-transfers, this way guests will enjoy more of the adventure and culture we have to offer, and adding on the birds eye view of AMAZING scenery. Visit our web site: www.mayatrails.com.gt or email us at: info@mayatrails.com.gt
GUYANA
Wilderness Explorers: Our annual Guyana (and Dominica) Evening is on 15th August at the Dominica High Commission in London. Tony will be giving a talk on the 18th August at the British Birdwatching Fair. We then take our annual fam trip from the 7th – 23rd September to the 3 Guianas. For details on any of the above or the new edition of the Bradt Guide to Guyana which Claire has just updated contact claire@wilderness-explorers.com
MEXICO
Journey Mexico: Baja Sur Adventure – TODOS SANTOS TO LOS CABOS BAJA WHALE SHARK SWIM. Swim with the largest fish in the sea, surf the perfect waves of El Cerritos Beach and hike the beautiful trails of the Sierra de la Laguna Mountains on this adventure in Mexico’s Baja Sur. Each winter whale sharks gather in the Sea of Cortez, just offshore from La Paz, and this adventure gives the chance to swim with them. Click here for full details.
Native Trails: Every cloud has a silver lining – the proverb comes true in the case of the pyramids of Teopanzolco. Due to the severe earth quakes in Mexico in September 2017, the original pyramid in Cuernavaca, Morelos has been damaged and thereby revealed a subterranean temple. For some Central American cultures, it was common to overbuild old pyramids. According to the archaeologists, the temple has been devoted to the rain god Tlaloc.
NICARAGUA
ORO Travel: Truly Unique Experiences: Night Tour Masaya Volcano The Masaya Volcano National Park offers visitors the rare and unique opportunity to see an active volcano up close. It’s the only volcano in the western hemisphere where you are able to drive right up to the edge and one of only 11 volcanoes in the world with an active lava lake! Click here for more information.
Vapues Tours, commended DMC at the LATA Achievement Awards of 2018, are happy to announce that they have recently introduced an experiential grand Central America tour. The itinerary highlights the pristine nature of Panamá and Costa Rica, colonial history of Nicaragua, archaeological sites of El Salvador and Honduras, cultural immersion in Guatemala, and Caribbean Belize. Have a look at a sample itinerary here. Or contact: marketing@vapues.com
PERU
If you have clients wanting an adventure, but not able to pay private prices, Amazonas Explorer has a great set of weekly fixed departures- combining great guiding and back up, with top quality itineraries. Contact info@amazonas-explorer.com to find out more.
LimaTours Last month PureQuest Adventures, LimaTours’ adventure team, operated the magnificent Choquequirao trek for a group from the known adventure outfit brand Columbia. Our guests also visited the unique city of Cusco, the Maras salt mines and the breath-taking Sacred Valley. Enjoy here one of the articles written after the trip.
URUGUAY
LARES Uruguay: Join one of our local chefs in a culinary experience for those interested in going beyond mere tasting. The experience takes place within an informal atmosphere, at the house of a local chef who will introduce you to Uruguayan cuisine! Participants will be able to prepare the main course or the complete menu according to their interests. Click here for more information or email info@lares.com.uy
The next Members’ Newsletter will be emailed to members at the beginning of September.
The deadline for news is 28th August.
Please contact info@lata.travel if you need any more information.