Domestic tourism briefs 08/05/12
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thetrainline.com extends agency reach
thetrainline.com has extended its travel agency reach through a new deal with Travelport’s Universal API. The deal will add new UK rail content to all Travelport-connected agents, including targeting those in North America and Australasia. “This is another example of how we are aggregating new content for our travel agency customers and distributing the way our content providers need us to support their business models,” said Simon Ferguson, regional director UK & Ireland at Travelport.
London Eye completes capsule refurb
The EDF Energy London Eye has completed a £12.5m upgrade to its capsules. The refurbishments have been made in anticipation for more visitors during the Jubilee and Olympics, although the upgrades will also reduce its fuel consumption by 30%. Each capsule has also been added with touch-screen guides with information on the sights and a 3D view of each sight. ‘It’s fantastic too see our hard work over the last five years, since planning began, finally come to fruition. Watching the 32nd upgraded capsule being attached last night was a proud moment and we’re very pleased we stuck to our deadline,” said David Sharpe, divisional director, London for the Merlin Entertainments Group, owner of the London Eye. “This project underlines Merlin’s strategy of continuous investment in all its attractions, and the company’s commitment to the UK tourism and leisure market”.
Kenya announces Jubilee Pageant involvement
Kenya Tourist Board UK has announced it will participate in the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Pageant at Windsor Castle later that month. Each evening from Thursday to Sunday this week the Nairobi Chamber Chorus will perform at the castle and will also be exhibiting in the Cultural Pavilion during the Royal Windsor Horse Show. Kenya’s connection to the Queen stems back to her visit in 1952, during which her father died and she learnt of her ascension to the throne.