NOTICEBOARD

NOTICEBOARD

Training schemes

&#42 Visit USA is launching a 12-module self-study programme next year to train agents in all aspects of holidaying in the US, from road and rail travel to key attractions. The course will cost £75 per trainee, with reductions for group entries. Once an agent completes the programme, he or she will become a recognised USA Travel Specialist and be on the fast track for educational invitations. The agency will also receive referrals from the Visit USA information helpline. Agents will be able to sign up for the course at World Travel Market where it will be demonstrated on two stands – NA616 and NA500B. For agents who miss WTM, there will be a chance to sign up early next year.

&#42 The Passenger Shipping Association Retail Agents’ scheme has eight more level one and two training days scheduled for before the end of the year. They are at Dover, aboard Fred Olsen’s Black Prince on November 6; the PSARA offices in Regent Street, London, on November 9; Hastings College, November 20; Forth Bridges Hotel, Edinburgh, November 21; Birmingham College, November 22; Hopwood Hall College, Manchester, November 29; Birmingham College, December 6; and PSARA office, December 14. The courses are free for PSARA members (maximum two a year). Non-members pay £56 plus VAT per person. To register for the courses, fax PSARA on 020-7636 9206.

Educationals

&#42 Hayes and Jarvis is running a seven-night educational/seminar to Kenya from December 10 for up to 60 agents. The trip, which costs £189 for departures from Gatwick or Manchester, includes a short safari and a few nights at a Kenyan beach resort. Therefore agents will get the chance to sample different types of accommodation and also gain an insight into the product. Places will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis – the closing date for applications is November 17. More details can be obtained from the agency sales team on 020-8741 9932.

Concessions

&#42 AsiaWorld is offering agents and their partners a 20% discount off any air-inclusive tailor-made holiday from the new 2000/01 programme. The aim of the offer is to encourage retailers to see how easy it is to put together their own itinerary as well as sampling the product. To qualify for the offer, agents must be in permanent employment and have made twoair-inclusive bookings with AsiaWorld within the past six months. Fordiscount authorisation, call agency sales on 0870 990 8082. To make a booking, call 08700 799 788.

&#8226 Training noticeboard appears every fortnight. Fax details of educationals, seminars andconcessions to Jane Archer on01483 281339.