END OF THE ATOL

The proposal to scrap tour operator ATOL bonds has been hailed as a victory for common sense by the trade. It has emerged that part of the regulatory impact assessment currently with the Department for Transport contains a recommendation to ditch the costly bonds.

The current ATOL scheme will be replaced with a £1 levy per passenger which will build up a fund to protect consumers in the event of a failure. An interim fund set up by the Government will operate while the levy funds build up. The whole process is expected to take 12 to 18 months. The proposals follow an extensive consultation period between ABTA, FTO and the Association of Independant Tour Operators and the Civil Aviation Authority.

VIRGIN FLIES TO TWO NEW SUN SPOTS

Virgin Atlantic has announced two new routes for next year after unveiling its best full-year results for six years.

The carrier will launch direct flights from Heathrow to Dubai and from Gatwick to Montego Bay, Jamaica, and will add another service to Mumbai next year. The new flights will take its number of destinations to 28.

Chairman, Sir Richard Branson described Dubai as "the perfect holiday destination with the key ingredients of guaranteed sun and sea".

The Dubai route, starting next April, is Virgin's first to the Middle East. Sir Richards said the results were due to an increase in first class passengers brought about by its introduction of new Upper Class suites.

Airports' forex 'can be rip-off'

Agents have been urged to secure more foreign exchange business by highlighting airports' low rates.

Holidaymakers who fail to change their money before they reach the airport could end up losing up to £9 for every £100 they exchange. A report by the Co-operative Travel Trading Group claimed some airport exchange bureaux were taking advantage of a captive audience to hike charges and offer low rates.

CTTG chief operating officer Mike Greenacre said: "There is no reason why people should have to pay more for foreign currency at airports. Our research clearly shows that many are being exploited."

The report named and shamed the worst offenders, with the poorest deals found at Robin Hood/Doncaster/Sheffield airport. Aberdeen came out on top for euros, with Gatwick offering the best rate for dollars.

Meanwhile, research by the Post Office has found that the growth in travel to exotic locations meant more travellers were using unfamiliar currency - and felt they were getting fleeced as a result.

Holiday focus: Spa Holidays

Spa treatments aren't just for the image conscious. Career men and women unwinding on a short break welcome the enforced relaxation. People convalescing from illness and injury may find alternative therapies such as acupuncture helpful. Many spa treatments offer alternative ingredients, the coffee and sugar body scrub is just one being used in treatments at spas around the world.

Spa treatments are perfect for special occassions. Hen parties, honeymooners, as well as those celebrating anniversaries will love the relaxation a spa brings. Trying traditional health, beauty or fitness options is a good way for travellers to experience the culture of a country.