oge
Distinguished Member
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Post by oge on Oct 4, 2014 18:44:37 GMT
Ok the venue has been booked for the same time next year.
There has been some discussion on the deals that were available last year and how these created some bad feeling. I have spoken with the Manager and he had apologised for the way it went. He did point out though that those who got the good deal managed this by mistake. The receptionist gave accepted booking on a deal that wasn't actually available for that time of year.
They are though looking to come up with a deal that will suit all and hopefully be much more appealing.
There are also some discussions on moving the event to the weekend before. It is thought that if we avoided the bank holiday weekend it might be cheaper for those travelling to the island. It may also attract some new players.
Would there be any major issues or concerns if we do this. We have not made any decisions on this but your feedback would be great.
Darren
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Post by BB Warrior on Oct 4, 2014 23:07:11 GMT
Hi Darren, Many thanks for the update about the Guernsey Open next year, much appreciated. With regards to the points that you have raised.... There has been some discussion on the deals that were available last year and how these created some bad feeling. I have spoken with the Manager and he had apologised for the way it went. He did point out though that those who got the good deal managed this by mistake. The receptionist gave accepted booking on a deal that wasn't actually available for that time of year. Hmmmm.... a mistake he says? I have disagree pretty strongly with that comment. The special offer that we got (Midsummer Madness, 3 nights for the price of 2) was advertised for staying in May on the Les Rocquettes website at the time that we booked and meant that we got a Double Superior Room for the 2 of us for £248 last year for the 3 nights that we stayed. Perhaps the "mistake" that he refers to was that they did not want to offer the Bar Billiards players the same deal that they offered to other people visiting the island at the same time? At present, the best deal that Les Rocquettes are offering on their website is a Weekend Break for £150 for 3 nights in April or May, I guess that is per person so the cost would be £300 for the 2 of us this year, will the bar billiards offer be cheaper than that? Perhaps, as a comparison, it would be fair to point out that we have booked FOUR nights at the Merton Hotel for the World Championships this year for a total cost of £248.20 for both of us.... which does make Les Rocquettes look rather expensive in comparison. Hopefully GBBA can sort out a good deal with the venue which I am sure would both encourage more people to enter the competition and (perhaps more importantly) more people would also choose to stay at the venue itself? With regards to moving the event to the weekend before.... There are also some discussions on moving the event to the weekend before. It is thought that if we avoided the bank holiday weekend it might be cheaper for those travelling to the island. It may also attract some new players. .... the flight prices that are currently on the Aurigny website would be the same for either flying out on Friday 24th April or 1st May and returning on either of the the following Monday, the best price there would currently be £93 return per person so there would be no real advantage for the people that fly over.... but perhaps the ferry would be cheaper if it was not the bank holiday weekend? Would there be any major issues or concerns if we do this. We have not made any decisions on this but your feedback would be great. Personally, I would prefer the competition to be played on the Bank Holiday weekend as it would not then involve either rushing back early on the Monday morning or losing a day of work.... I think that if the weekend changes and the hotel prices remain high we may decide not to come over which would be a shame as I have been at every Guernsey Open so far and it remains one of my favorite weekends.
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Post by BB Warrior on Oct 5, 2014 10:03:41 GMT
I have just seen a very cheap deal for flights..... flying out to Guernsey on Friday 1st May, return flight on Monday 4th May.... cost just £50 per person including baggage. If the organisers could confirm the dates for the competition ASAP it would be appreciated and players can then take advantage of this deal, after I have booked it first!
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Post by Chris on Oct 6, 2014 20:29:20 GMT
Hi
I drive out 4 players, I cannot attend if the date is changed. The others would have to fly but 1 can't.
Thanks Chris
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The Bridesmaid
Full Forum Member
i`d be a better player if there was an alcohol ban at bar billiard matches! lol
Posts: 150
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Post by The Bridesmaid on Oct 6, 2014 20:50:53 GMT
Hi Guys
I think when we see you all in jersey in a few weeks you need to talk to our president Tom Oliver as he is the man with the power to say what will happen. I think we should keep it the same as it always has been it is a great weekend. see you all very soon champs
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Post by Deleted on Oct 6, 2014 21:47:08 GMT
Well as ones who've been to every Guernsey except one we were alarmed to see this from table operator Bob recently: With regards to tables, the way the game is going (dying) in Guernsey there could be at least 16 tables available. I have two (three if you count the one I build) the league has at least 12 plus a there are a couple others privately owned. Well that's my Sunday morning moan out the way. Bob So it's a huge relief to know that the venue has been booked and the 2015 Open will be going ahead, as it's our favourite weekend too. Is this just Bob bemoaning a shrinking of the league ? Surely the standard of bar billiards on the island is coming on in leaps and bounds....you are holding your own against Jersey these days and Guernseymen excelled in the 2014 Open, claiming most of the honours? tommo/margo
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Post by Chris on Oct 11, 2014 17:55:17 GMT
Hi
Could I please have a definitive answer re the date as I search transport deals from November. We can't go if the date is moved.
Thanks Chris
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Post by Chris on Oct 26, 2014 21:18:12 GMT
Could I please ask again if you are going to change the date away from the bank holiday weekend.
Thanks Chris
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Post by Sir Chancelot on Oct 26, 2014 23:05:28 GMT
Could I please ask again if you are going to change the date away from the bank holiday weekend. Thanks Chris Hi Chris I wish I could answer this question for you. I have no clues or news myself. I believe there is a Guernsey committee meeting before Jersey, when some decisions will be made. The only suggestion I can offer is that you email the powers that be on info@barbilliards.gg Sorry that I can not give a more definite answer at the moment, unless Darren Ogier is tuning in to this.
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oge
Distinguished Member
Posts: 669
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Post by oge on Oct 27, 2014 20:58:49 GMT
It is unlikely that it will change. I think that a firm decision will be made in time for Jersey
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Post by BB Warrior on Nov 22, 2014 13:56:59 GMT
It is unlikely that it will change. I think that a firm decision will be made in time for Jersey Hello Oge / all in Guernsey. The general feeling over in Jersey seemed to be that the Open would remain on the Bank Holiday weekend (2nd/3rd May) and that GBBA would be talking to Les Rocquettes about the prices fairly soon after they returned back from Jersey.... is there any news yet on that front? We are certainly hoping to come over again next year and would like to be able to book hotel and flights etc but until something is confirmed as far as both the dates and any offer that may be available at Les Rocquettes I am reluctant to do anything. Perhaps someone could let us have an update on how things stand at the moment? Many thanks, in anticipation. Dave & Colleen
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Post by BB Warrior on Nov 22, 2014 13:59:50 GMT
I have just seen a very cheap deal for flights..... flying out to Guernsey on Friday 1st May, return flight on Monday 4th May.... cost just £50 per person including baggage. If the organisers could confirm the dates for the competition ASAP it would be appreciated and players can then take advantage of this deal, after I have booked it first! Sadly, this offer has gone.... best deal now is £82 each on flights.
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oge
Distinguished Member
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Post by oge on Dec 2, 2014 23:31:28 GMT
Really sorry BB warrior i have been ill and have not been on here for a while. The date will remain the 1st weekend of May and i have a meeting with the hotel Manager to agree this. I hope to catch up on this in the ext couple of days
Oge
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Post by BB Warrior on Dec 2, 2014 23:34:56 GMT
Really sorry BB warrior i have been ill and have not been on here for a while. The date will remain the 1st weekend of May and i have a meeting with the hotel Manager to agree this. I hope to catch up on this in the ext couple of days Oge Thanks Darren, hope you feel better soon.
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Post by Chris_Sav on Dec 2, 2014 23:35:08 GMT
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Post by Chris on Dec 6, 2014 21:19:23 GMT
As La Roquettes are offering 3 nights for £150 next May I assume that the price will be comparable to this ??
Any news on the prices??
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oge
Distinguished Member
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Post by oge on Dec 17, 2014 9:22:21 GMT
Please find the details for those wishing to stay at the Roquettes for the 2015 open
GBBA PACKAGE 2015
Dates: 1st May 2015 for 3 nights £50.00 per person per night sharing B&B standard £54.00 per person per night sharing B&B superior £86.00 sole occupancy of room per night depending on availability Minimum of 3 nights
SPECIAL OFFER: Why not stay 5 nights and receive dinner free on one evening of your choice
FUNCTION OFFER: Set menu on Sunday evening at 5.30pm for visiting and local players – 3 course + coffee at £15.75 per head
NO OTHER OFFERS APPLY AT THIS TIME
GUESTS TO MENTION GBBA-15
SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY
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Post by BB Warrior on Dec 17, 2014 19:45:39 GMT
Please find the details for those wishing to stay at the Roquettes for the 2015 open GBBA PACKAGE 2015 Dates: 1st May 2015 for 3 nights £50.00 per person per night sharing B&B standard £54.00 per person per night sharing B&B superior £86.00 sole occupancy of room per night depending on availability Minimum of 3 nights SPECIAL OFFER: Why not stay 5 nights and receive dinner free on one evening of your choice FUNCTION OFFER: Set menu on Sunday evening at 5.30pm for visiting and local players – 3 course + coffee at £15.75 per head NO OTHER OFFERS APPLY AT THIS TIME GUESTS TO MENTION GBBA-15 SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY Subject to availability? Oh dear, at those prices I think there will be plenty of rooms available at the Rocquettes and it may even put some people off from entering the competition at all. Last year, Colleen & I paid £248.00 for 3 nights in a Superior Double, this year the same would cost £348.00.... £100 increase. Ian Lelliott (who travelled with us) paid £180.00 for 3 nights in a Single Room, this year the same would cost £258.00.... £78.00 increase. Last year we spent over £200 in the bar/restaurant over the weekend.... so it all adds up to an expensive trip. We have always stayed at the venue for these weekends, but I would have to look elsewhere on this occasion or not go at all unless the hotel can put together a better package for us.
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Post by Sir Chancelot on Dec 18, 2014 12:39:16 GMT
Thanks for those hard hitting remarks. Hope they do not scupper the Open completely. Subject to availability is true with any offer, good or bad (as it was with Bournemouth) so not necessary
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oge
Distinguished Member
Posts: 669
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Post by oge on Dec 18, 2014 12:43:30 GMT
Hi Dave
I accept that it seems high compared with last year deals. But how does this compare with the Bournemonth weekend. From what i can see Bourmeouth is £289.90 for 2 people sharing. This is of course including evening meal and other extras. It is though a standard double room i assume, so on comparison the 3 nights standard room would be £300, a price difference of £10.10.
I am unsure what the queens is like so cannot compare those standards.
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Post by JB on Dec 18, 2014 12:54:37 GMT
Sorry but I don't think its the remarks that will scupper the open but the cost.
I was talking to Alan about whether we will be coming over this year but the cost is definitely putting us off. 3 nights for the 2 of us would work out about £700 with evening meals and spending money included.
After chatting about it we have 90% decided not to go this year. Its just too much money for 3 nights. Its a pity because Guernsey Open has always been one of my favourites.
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Post by JB on Dec 18, 2014 13:12:06 GMT
Just an example we are doing Bournemouth on B & B basis (same as Guernsey) for 3 nights it would cost us £230.00. £70 difference.
Obviously there are no flights involved so the weekend would roughly cost us £350 including spending money.
We haven't done Bournemouth for a few years but had to choose between the two and the £350 price difference swayed us
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oge
Distinguished Member
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Post by oge on Dec 18, 2014 14:28:09 GMT
I can see that on face value this figure maybe too high. I have had to pull out of the sussex open myself due to funds. However i will be at bournemouth for the 1st time this year. For what the Hotel offer as a venue and facilities i think this offers a good price. It will be a real shame if we do lose people to the event, We really enjoy ptting the event on and meeting all from across the water.
If i can offer anymore info, let me know.
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Post by Deleted on Dec 18, 2014 14:30:34 GMT
I accept that it seems high compared with last year deals. But how does this compare with the Bournemonth weekend. From what i can see Bourmeouth is £289.90 for 2 people sharing. This is of course including evening meal and other extras. It is though a standard double room i assume, so on comparison the 3 nights standard room would be £300, a price difference of £10.10. I am unsure what the queens is like so cannot compare those standards. Factor in the time of year - May - and Guernsey still represents good value for us. I do hope it goes ahead, it's one of only two events left that motivate me to get the cue out of mothballs.
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The Bridesmaid
Full Forum Member
i`d be a better player if there was an alcohol ban at bar billiard matches! lol
Posts: 150
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Post by The Bridesmaid on Dec 18, 2014 14:43:27 GMT
I get a bit fed up of reading this site when the only things are negative...., prices, points in ranking competition's the way things are run! Can I ask one question which may resolve a few issues? How much are people willing to pay to stay at the hotel for the Guernsey open? if we can guarantee numbers coming over and say it was 40 or 50+ for sure maybe we can approach them that way to knock the price down??? maybe they are working in the unknown and the figure is high because of entries not being guaranteed. just an idea????
Champs
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Post by Sir Chancelot on Dec 18, 2014 14:52:22 GMT
At least we are not saying entry into the competition depends on Residency of the Hotel. I realise it is more convenient to stay at the venue, however deals can be found at other Hotels close by like St Pierre Park and Grange Lodge. I think that part of the cause of an increase this year could be because of the 70th Anniversary of the end of Occupation by the German Forces, and more people are planning to come over that week, as there are lots of events being planned. They can probably sell the rooms at that rate at the moment. Because Les Rocquettes is part of a chain of Hotels, these prices are probably governed by some Executive behind a desk, who can not see the bigger picture as to the money spent on drinks at the bar and meals. Holding the Open a week earlier was discussed, but not decided on as a yes by the majority. As happened last year, perhaps some special deal offers will come to the fore (Just don't mention Bar Billiards)
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oge
Distinguished Member
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Post by oge on Dec 18, 2014 15:49:51 GMT
To save getting anyones hopes up. I do not see any better deals than this comming from the Hotel. The Low charges last year were done in error in the booking system that were honored by the Hotel manager in good faith. Normally the prices are £108 per room per night. I do think the single room price though was cheaper but the hotel do not have any of these left. Hence the single supplement price.
event will go ahead
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Post by Chris_Sav on Dec 18, 2014 16:39:09 GMT
The Midsummer Madness offer last year was a published offer, I had to go through the manager for them to agree to have two offers strung together, one night outside of the five night offer period, so that my group stayed six nights for the price of four.
Having said that I still hope to be over and contribute to the island brewing economy! got a plate title to defend!
Sav
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Post by BB Warrior on Dec 18, 2014 23:31:43 GMT
Thanks for those hard hitting remarks. Hope they do not scupper the Open completely. Subject to availability is true with any offer, good or bad (as it was with Bournemouth) so not necessary I apologise if my comments upset any of our friends in Guernsey, yes they were forthright but honest.... I fully accept that GBBA can only offer what the hotel is prepared to give, but the simple fact is that the special deal is nothing more than the "Weekend Break" offer that the hotel has on their website available to anybody, if they had offered £10 (or even £5) extra off per night per person I would have said that the hotel actually want our business however it feels as if they don't. How many other people coming over to Guernsey and staying at the hotel on a "weekend break" will spend almost all day in the hotel buying food and drinks.... simple answer - none. So the fact that they will have 50-60 people doing that will mean a lot more income to the hotel. Sadly, each year we seem to have the same battle with the Rocquettes.... and the price goes up each year. In 2011, we paid £98 per night for 2 nights and then got the 3rd night for £55.... total cost for 2 of us £251.00 for 3 nights. In 2012, we paid £98 per night for 2 nights and then got the 3rd night for £60.... total cost for 2 of us £256.00 for 3 nights. In 2013, we paid £98 per night for 2 nights and then got the 3rd night for £60.... total cost for 2 of us £256.00 for 3 nights. In 2014, we got the "Midsummer Madness" offer and paid £124 per night for 2 nights and then got the 3rd night FREE.... total cost for 2 of us £248.00 for 3 nights. (Even though the hotel then argued that we shouldn't have got the offer for the Bar Billiards weekend.... well, sorry, but it was advertised on their website!) Next year we would have to pay £348 for the Superior room that we have had each time we have been there, an increase that is hard to justify and would make the whole weekend very expensive. In comparison, the last time the Open was played at the Peninsula, the room cost was £74 per night meaning a total cost of £216 for 2 of us for the 3 nights. I would be surprised if any of the players stayed at another hotel when it was played there and the Peninsula offered a higher standard than Rocquettes in my opinion. Perhaps if Rocquettes offered a similar deal to that then all of the players wouyld happily stay there....?? Other comparisons.... Bournemouth, £100 each for 2 nights but includes dinner as well, total cost £200 and no evening meal to pay for. Merton Hotel, Jersey.... this year we stayed for 4 nights and the total cost was £246 for the 2 of us.... cost per night of £61.50 for the 2 of us. Does anybody here think that Rocquettes is a better hotel than the Merton? I don't want to put anybody off entering the Guernsey Open and would love to see everyone staying at the venue, that makes a great atmosphere there and I am sure the hotel would make a lot more money in food & drink as well.... but what happened to the "special deal" of the cheap third night that we used to get there?
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Post by BB Warrior on Dec 18, 2014 23:51:00 GMT
I get a bit fed up of reading this site when the only things are negative...., prices, points in ranking competition's the way things are run! Can I ask one question which may resolve a few issues? How much are people willing to pay to stay at the hotel for the Guernsey open? if we can guarantee numbers coming over and say it was 40 or 50+ for sure maybe we can approach them that way to knock the price down??? maybe they are working in the unknown and the figure is high because of entries not being guaranteed. just an idea???? I agree with a lot of this post.... but the hotel would only need to check their records during the 4 years the event has been held there and see how many people have stayed there each year for the competition. My bet would be that the number of players staying at the hotel has decreased in the last couple of years.... for the simple reason of the increasing price there. The cost of £86 per night for a single person staying at the hotel is prohibitive and not everybody brings their partner with them or wants to share with somebody else.... so that could mean that some players may choose not to enter at all. But the solution is in their own hands, I am pretty sure that a better room deal would mean more people staying at the hotel and that would mean more income for their bar and restaurant.
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