Virgin Holidays has
struck an exclusive deal with the Universal Orlando Resort in Florida, with Harry Potter featuring on the cover of the company's latest brochure, promoting what has been described as a 'landmark agreement'. The cover, which is a massive departure from the usual Disney tie-in design, may be seen
here;
Virgin, in conjunction with sister-brand
Travel City Direct, will offer visitors travelling with them exclusive benefits including; free parking, complimentary breakfast, a free keepsake and a priority pass for Harry Potter attractions.
Quote:
Simon Presswell, Universal Parks and Resorts' European managing director, said the tie-up marked a major step in the gradual "reveal" of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, which has been designed in collaboration with Potter fans worldwide.
"We now have the combination of three massive brands, and this will help us to crystalise our relationship with the trade," he said.
"We have already started educating agents and reservations staff, and will continue to do so alongside Virgin with webinars, fam trips and on and offline training."
Quote:
Virgin Holidays managing director Amanda Wills added: "We are number one to Florida and it is really exciting to be the official travel partners in the UK for the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
"We have a great partnership with Disney, but this is the big opening for Orlando next year and to be working together is fantastic."
The brochure will be available from November 26th and is said to indicate 'a clearer idea of timings' as to when the park will open. So far, all we know is that it will be sometime in spring 2010.
Virgin Holidays official UK travel partners with Wizarding World of Harry Potter 
BUT oh so worth it!!!! 
