VIA Egencia wins Sweden's Best Travel Management Company award

STOCKHOLM, Feb. 11, 2015 /PRNewswire/ --VIA Egencia, the Nordic business travel company of Expedia, Inc., one of the world's largest travel companies, was named Sweden's Best Travel Management Company at yesterday's 2015 Business Travel Awards in Stockholm.

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The SBTA, Swedish Business Travel Association, and Resegeometri have been recognizing excellence in the Swedish business travel industry for the past nine years. This year, VIA Egencia is the winner of one of the ceremony's most prestigious prizes, the Customers' Choice Award. The prize is split into ten different categories and is awarded to the travel company that has the highest score based on voting from travel managers and travelers.

Michael Schuller, managing director at VIA Egencia Sweden, said of the win:

"We are extremely proud that this award reflects a vote of confidence from our customers and travelers. This is an exciting phase for us as we bring new products and services to the market such as our smartphone app EgenciaTripNavigator, helping travelers when and where they need it most.Travel managers and travelers appreciate our user-friendly booking system and the modern solutions we provide to make booking travel easy and productive. Finally, this award also shows that our fantastic staff emphasizes personal service every time they are in contact with a customer."

Egencia 2014 Global Milestones

Over the past year, Egencia achieved some extraordinary results:

About VIA EgenciaVIA Egencia is the leading Travel Management Company in the Nordics and part of the Egencia worldwide network of business travel experts.The global TMC provides innovative business travel technology and expert local service to more than 10,000 clients in 64 countries around the world. As part of the Expedia group (NASDAQ: EXPE), one of the world's largest online travel companies, VIA Egencia provides forward-looking companies with the ability to drive compliance and cost savings in their travel programs, while meeting the needs and requirements of the modern business traveller.For more information please visit us atwww.egencia.se

2015 Egencia, LLC.All rights reserved. Egencia, VIA Egencia and the VIA Egencia logos are either registered trademarks or trademarks of the Expedia, Inc. in the U.S. and/or other countries. Other logos or product and company names mentioned herein may be the property of their respective owners. CST # 2029030-50; CST # 2083922-50.

*Based on trailing twelve months gross bookings through September 30, 2014.

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VIA Egencia wins Sweden's Best Travel Management Company award

Build up to World Gymnastics Championships in the Hydro

THE top gymnasts in the world will travel to Glasgow later this year for one of the biggest sporting events ever held in the UK.

It may only be six months since the city said farewell to the athletes from the Commonwealth Games but it is already gearing up for another global sporting event.

In October, the Hydro will host the World Gymnastics Championships which will see 10 days of top level competition bringing together more than 500 gymnasts from 80 nations including the USA, China, Japan and Russia.

Up for grabs will be not only the coveted title of world champion but also places at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games.

The best gymnasts in the world will battle it out in a host of disciplines in front of capacity crowds.

City council leader Gordon Matheson is vowing Glasgow will build on its success of the Commonwealth Games and deliver the best ever World Championships.

He said: "Glasgow's Games will live long in the memory. They were the best ever Commonwealth Games and showed the world the Glasgow we all know and love.

"But 2014 was not the end game for Glasgow. The Year of Glasgow was our new base-camp. It was certainly not the summit of our ambition. And we are ready to move on.

"In fact 2015 is already being referred to as Glasgow's Year of Sport as we prepare to host Davis Cup tennis, the European Judo Championships, IPC Swimming World Championships and the World Gymnastics Championships.

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Build up to World Gymnastics Championships in the Hydro

Diving holidays: readers' tips

More readers' advice on diving holidays

The Philippines

Moalboal, on the south-west coast of Cebu Island in the Philippines, is an interesting island with lots to see, friendly locals and a small hotel and dive centre on the waters edge. We enjoyed deep dives over the reef edge, then long meanders on the shallow reef top in clear, warm water and, in between dives, lying in a hammock eating slices of fresh mango. Among the highlights were turtles, the flickering lights on the lips of electric clams in a cave, the twilight courtship dance of the bizarrely coloured mandarin fish and, hiding among the sea fans, pygmy seahorses the size of a rice grain easy to miss without an expert guide. John and Francis White, Chester

Indonesia

One place I always recommend for diving and snorkelling is Indonesia. I took the slow boat from Lombok to Flores and the manta rays, turtles, corals, sharks and critters were marvellous.

However, it is the drop-off point, Komodo National Park, that is the real reward. On land, dragons; in the sea, an abundance of life. Thanks to two merging currents, Batu Bolong in particular makes it hard to keep the regulator in your mouth as you slowly descend, mouth agape at the plethora of marine activity. The vicious currents either side of the site only add to the excitement. And all this just a 90-minute cruise from the gorgeous port and heart-melting sunsets of Labuan Bajo. Chris Bann, London

Andaman Islands

This beautiful archipelago in the Bay of Bengal is difficult to reach, because visitors have to fly via India despite the Andamans being closer to Thailand. However, you will be rewarded with fantastic coral and amazing marine life. While travelling to the dive sites we never saw another boat, giving us the feeling that we were completely alone in our exploration of these hidden treasures. I saw a wider variety of species here than anywhere else I have dived. The sites are in pristine condition and you really will believe that you are the first person to dive them.

When not diving, the Andaman Islands have unforgettable beaches. On these, you just know you are in tropical island paradise. Wayde Gradwell, by email

A diver in the Galapagos Islands (Fotolia/AP)

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Diving holidays: readers' tips

Travel planning advised ahead of opening event

Travel planning advised ahead of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2015 opening event

The opening event of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2015 New Zealand is now only three days away and travel planning for the day will be crucial in minimising the impact on journey times on the day.

The ICC Cricket World Cup 2015 Opening event in North Hagley Park on Thursday 12 February, starting at 6.30pm, will see higher volumes of traffic on Central City roads, particularly around North Hagley Park.

Christchurch Transport Operations Centre (CTOC) Manager Ryan Cooney says it is imperative that both those attending the ICC Cricket World 2015 opening event on Thursday 12 February and regular commuters, stay ahead of the game and plan their journey atwww.tfc.govt.nz<http://www.tfc.govt.nz>.

"We're asking people to do something different that day. If you work in the Central City and plan to go the event, consider staying in the city and walking to the event. If you're coming to the event later in the day, parking is available in North Hagley Park and surrounding areas where we would encourage people to park and walk to the event.

"There will be people travelling in and out of the CBD on the day of the opening event, which will result in an increase in traffic volumes particularly around the North Hagley side of town.

"We want to make sure everyone has plenty of time to get to where they're going and we would encourage everyone to plan ahead, check their intended route and allow a bit of extra time," Mr Cooney says.

Consider doing something different that day: * Stay in the city - work in the Central City? Walk to the event after work. * Check with your employer to see if you can work flexible work hours and avoid possible travel delays. * Why not walk, take the bike or go by bus? * Driving? Plan your parking http://www.tfc.govt.nz/parking<http://www.tfc.govt.nz/parking> * For public transport go to http://www.metroinfo.co.nz * Not going to the opening event? Use Madras Street, Barbadoes Street and Fitzgerald Avenue for Central City travel.

For further information on ICC Cricket World Cup 2015 please visit http://www.christchurch2015.co.nz<http://www.christchurch2015.co.nz> Please find attached a traffic advisory map from CTOC for the ICC Cricket World 2015 opening event.

- Ends -

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Travel planning advised ahead of opening event

Travel Advisor Tips – World Travel Guides and Useful …

TravelAdvisorTips.com is one-stop travel guide on your road to the most exhilarating world destinations providing numerous travel tips. Just click on one of many travel articles on the website to learn more about a certain destination you are headed to, find out which attractions are worth visiting and which ones you can do without. Travel Advisor Tips travel guide saves you time and money time after time with our overview of many free places to visit and free things to do in places you would expect to spend a fortune at.

For your information our website presents some of the most attention worthy travel articles grouped into 10 major travel destinations presented in the main menu. Simply click on parts of the world that you are considering visiting to learn more travel tips, information on the best hotels, top destinations and a full blown spectrum of attractions virtually for any traveler.

Western Europe located on the smallest land based continent contains within itself an impressive magnitude of cultural and natural riches. It is hard to find any other location in the world that would be appropriate for literally any traveler. What is not to love: castles in Ireland, Royal palaces and Westminster Abbey in England, unique Netherlands capital Amsterdam with a plethora of canals, museums, galleries to explore by day and Red Light district to explore by night? Italy with its Renaissance era architecture, art and cultural heritage, iconic museums and cities is another story in itself. From Bavarian beer festivals in Germany to Vienna Opera House in Austria and Switzerland with its fairy tale like landscapes and world class skiing resorts. But wait, what about France with the Eiffel Tower in Paris and French countryside chateaux spread along Loire Valley. And sizzling Spain wins everyone over not only by its architecture, landscapes but by flamenco dancing and mouthwatering tapas cuisine.

United Kingdom is a country that adores its queen, never misses its 5 oclock ritual and was hosting 2012 Summer Olympic Games. Throughout its long history it had taken part in just about any major world event showcasing its great military might and political wit. Today, England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland are hosting millions of tourists drawn to their attractions including 25 UNESCO World heritage sites, Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey and Trafalgar Square in London and, of course, prehistoric remnants from the Stone Age to the Dark Age. Then there are cities like Edinburgh, Leeds, Yorkshire Dells and Glasgow full of old world charm coupled with modern ultra urban night clubs and restaurants.

Eastern Europe slowly waking up from its almost century long behind the Iron Curtain Wall slumber is welcoming more visitors than ever before attracted by its immense cultural and natural resources that until recently remained closed for Western tourists. There are many reasons to come to the Eastern part of Europe to see Russian churches, palaces and unbelievable museums, Baltic States boasting even more beautiful coastal landscapes and culture, sample tasty Polish cuisine and marvel at its medieval castles in Warsaw and Krakow. Among other top destinations here is Prague in Czech Republic that offer it all to visitors ranging from its historical architecture, lovely museums and top notch gastronomy. Then there are Danube River cruises and world-renown spas in Budapest, Hungary and medieval castles in Transylvania, Romania. And finally gorgeous seaside resorts in Bulgaria and Greece coupled with priceless historical sites like Mount Olympus and Acropolis in Athens are without a doubt some of the top reasons of coming here.

Russia, being the largest country on Earth, does not fall short on the top notch attractions being offered by your travel guides. Indeed, occupying territories spanning across multiple geographical and climatic zones, there is so much to see, from the Russian Far East and Siberia regions boasting some of the most beautiful National Parks, lakes, mountain ranges and diverse wildlife to world class Black Sea resorts by Sochi. In Moscow, visitors can take in some of the best sites in the country including Kremlin, the Red Square, Bolshoy Theatre and an array of amazing cathedrals. In the cultural capital of the country, Saint Petersburg, some of the best attractions are the most renowned museum in the world The Hermitage, Alexander Nevsky Monastery, magnificent palaces and a series of stunning bridges. The country is immense in its size so referring to one of many travel articles on the website will help plan your trip more effectively.

Scandinavia is a scarcely populated region in Nordic Europe containing just a handful of countries with some of the most impressive sceneries and landscapes. Norway with its majestic fjords, troll culture and beautiful sea ports; Iceland boasting stunning glaciers, gorgeous Gullfoss Waterfall and geothermal springs are welcoming millions of visitors in search of their outdoor wonders. In Finland, tourists love relaxing in wooden cottages, going sledding and playing in snow castles. Visit cultural Stockholm in Sweden and a magnitude of islands in Denmark along with Viking heritage sites.

The United States of America is one incredible travel destination presented by 50 distinct states spanning from the West coast of California to the East coast of New York, Alaska way north in the Arctic and Hawaii in the North Pacific. Indeed, it is hard to choose which state to visit, what to see in do in this huge country but do not despair since we have plenty of travel articles on American destinations to keep your coming for more. Our travel guide across the United States will teach you how to save money in New York City if you want to see all of its incredible attractions ranging from the Statue of Liberty, Metropolitan Museum, Central Park and much more. In addition, we will help you learn which cities are worth visiting and which must-see attractions in California to include in any itinerary. From world famous zoo and Balboa Park and its museums in San Diego to the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco to great beaches near Los Angeles, we have you covered. In America you can gamble in Las Vegas, see 4 former American Presidents carved into the Mouth Rushmore in South Dakota, visit Grand Canyon in Arizona and take in the cowboy culture in Texas. Ski in Colorado, camp in the Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming and see incredible Great Lakes in the Midwestern portion of the USA. It does not stop here: Mardi Gras festival in New Orleans, Kentucky Derby and gorgeous tropical beaches of Florida. In Alaska you can enjoy majestic northern landscapes, feast on fresh salmon and visit the Kenai Fjords National Park. Then there is Hawaii like no other state with a plethora of islands to surf and swim, Polynesian culture to explore and cuisine to savor.

Canada is second largest nation in the world blessed with incredible outdoors like fresh water lakes, vast forests, Canadian Rockies mountain range and culture heavily affected by British and French influence. It does not matter whether you head to this North American destination to ski, fish, kayak or enjoy its great outdoors, all seasons are great to indulge in the best vacation destination imaginable. Savor the best lobsters and whale watch in Nova Scotia, take in the culture and chic of cosmopolitan Vancouver, visit its beautiful Banff National Park in Alberta, dive into the French cultural epicenter in Quebec City and Montreal. Finally, do not miss the popular attraction in North America Niagara Falls and Royal Canadian Mint in the capital Ottawa.

Mexico is one of the most beloved tourist destinations in the world combining 6000 miles of coastline, incredible cultural attractions, historical heritage and some of the best cuisines in the world. Tourists will find a myriad of world class resorts in places like Cozumel, Cancun, Puerto Vallarta, Acapulco and many more ideal for water sports and leisure activities. Lots of archaeological sites with remnants of ancient Aztec and Mayan civilizations are some of the top attractions including Chichen Itza, Teotihuacan and Uxmal.

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Travel Advisor Tips - World Travel Guides and Useful ...

Cheap Flights, Round the World & Student Travel | STA …

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Welcome to STA Travel Australia. Stay here or continue to the U.S. site at statravel.com

Need a cheap flight for your trip? Check out our latest flights on special to a huge range of destinations around the world.

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We're the original Round the World experts! Check out some of our favourite trips and get some great advice for your adventure.

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We've got all your travel essentials sorted. Don't forget to pack a discount card, Roaming SIM and cashcard to save money while you travel.

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Gay and Lesbian Travel a booming segment at ITB Berlin 2015

The Gay & Lesbian Travel Pavilion, the world's largest LGBT platform, welcomes new exhibitors discussion round at the ITB Berlin Convention on the prospects for LGBT social media campaigns a cult event: the ITB TomOnTour Party on 4 March 2015

Gay and lesbian travel is one of the fastest-growing markets in the international travel industry. Ever since 2010 ITB Berlin has grouped all the relevant providers on an attractive combined display in order to focus attention on lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender tourism (LGBT). The Gay & Lesbian Travel Pavilion in the centrally located entrance area in front of the Caribbean Hall 3.1b, now showcases the world's largest range of LGBT tourism products at any trade fair.

Among this year's exhibitors attending the Pink Pavilion for the first time are Mykonos Accommodation Center with Gay-friendly Hotels from Mykonos, the Stockholm Gay & Lesbian Network with EuroGames 2015, Dorsett Hotels and Zenith Travel from Ecuador. Key West, Fort Lauderdale as well as Toronto and Ontario, are represented for the first time with their own stand at the world's largest travel trade show. Wien Tourism together with the popular Vienna Gay Caf and ITB LGBT partner TomOnTour/ Diversity GmbH are long-standing exhibitors at the show. The stand of Vienna features a cube with a large photo of Conchita Wurst and questions about the Eurovision Song Contest which in 2015 will take place in Vienna. Those who get the right answers will be able to win prizes. Also taking part again are the Spartacus Gay Guide, Brazil with ABRAT and Embratur, Argentina Turismo LGBT, Diversity Consulting from Madrid, the Ella Festival from Majorca, Gay Gran Canaria, the IGLTA (International Gay & Lesbian Travel Association), together with World Rainbow Hotels, Gay Guide 365, Here Media, and co-exhibitors from Tel Aviv and Barcelona.

Following its successful launch last year, in 2015 the Gay & Lesbian Media Networking Brunch will be taking place on Wednesday, 4 March. From 11 a.m. to 12.30 p.m. members of the media will be able to get together in an informal atmosphere with representatives of destinations and other tourism providers. Part of it will be the Ella Festival for Women, One & Only Hotels, Toronto and Ontario, Hotel GranVia Kyoto from Japan, Spartacus and TomOnTour and, for the first time, the city of Athens, which is acting as the main sponsor of the event. Another regular highlight is the reception organised by the Spartacus Gay Guide on 5 March 2015, the Thursday of ITB. Among those taking part are IGLTA, the Berlin Aids relief organisation and Air Berlin. On the Saturday of ITB 'Queer Tango', a legendary event and major attraction for the public, will be taking place on the gay and lesbian stand of Argentina. Taking place on 4 March 2015 at the Park Inn on Alexanderplatz will be the ITB Party by TomOnTour, a cult event for partygoers. Admission is by invitation only. Visit Florida is the exclusive partner of the event. On 6 March 2015 the community will be getting together with the IGLTA for an evening reception at the Axel Hotel. Admission here is also by invitation only.

Gay and Lesbian Tourism Panel at the ITB Berlin Convention

At the ITB Berlin Convention the ITB Destination Days will be addressing once again the topic of gay and lesbian travel. On Friday, 6 March 2015, taking the gay and lesbian market as an example, international experts Richard Gray, managing director of LGBT Market, Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau; Shiho Ikeuchi, director of Overseas Marketing Hotel Granvia Kyoto; Kristin Hansen, of the Ella Festival, Majorca, and Rika Jean-Franois, responsible for CSR and LGBT travel at ITB Berlin and member of the board of IGLTA, will be debating "the potential of social media to successfully influence niche markets." Matt Skallerud of Pink Banana Media, Los Angeles, will be holding an introductory paper. Moderating the event will be Thomas Bmkes, managing director and senior consultant of Diversity Tourism GmbH and long-standing advisor in LGBT matters to ITB Berlin.

ITB Berlin's commitment to cultural diversity is not confined to the dates of the show. Thus, on request the ITB Academy organises events at various destinations with information on global developments. The show has also committed to strategic partnerships regarding the development of the LGBT travel product with Wien Tourismus and visitBerlin. In the context of its social responsibilities the world's largest travel trade show also sees itself in a pioneering role and promotes tolerance and the implementation of human rights. ITB Berlin is a member of the IGLTA and supports the IGLTA Foundation.

ITB Berlin 2015 will take place from Wednesday to Sunday, 4 to 8 March. From the Wednesday to the Friday ITB Berlin is open to trade visitors only. The ITB Berlin Convention is held parallel with the trade fair, from Wednesday to Saturday, 4 to 7 March 2015. It is the world"s largest specialist convention for the industry. More details are available at http://www.itb-convention.com. ITB Berlin is the leading trade fair for the worldwide travel industry. In 2014 a total of 10,147 companies and organisations from 189 countries exhibited their products and services to 174,000 visitors, who included 114,000 trade visitors.

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Gay and Lesbian Travel a booming segment at ITB Berlin 2015