Author: Shawon Hannan
The Compass Project, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at enhancing social mobility, diversity, and inclusivity in the travel and cruise industries, has marked the end of a fruitful second year. Led by Mundy Cruising and CLIA, the programme offers invaluable insights and experiences to sixth-form students from diverse backgrounds.Involving a select group of Year 12 students from St John Bosco College and Itchen Sixth Form College, the programme spanned two months and consisted of enriching off-site sessions. By engaging with multiple cruise brands, students gained practical knowledge and improved their career prospects within the industry.The Compass Project featured seven off-site days,…
The recent eruptions of Mount Etna and Stromboli have led to significant disruptions in air travel across Italy. Catania airport in Sicily halted operations, affecting numerous flights.Authorities have reacted to this natural event by increasing alert levels and advising passengers to adhere to the latest travel guidance. Airlines like EasyJet and Ryanair are amongst those forced to reroute or cancel flights to ensure safety.Impact on Flight OperationsCatania airport has suspended both incoming and outgoing flights as volcanic activity intensifies. Airlines are diverting flights to alternate airports such as Palermo and Comiso. This decision reflects the heightened safety measures in response…
The recent UK general election has ushered in a significant shift, with the Labour Party claiming a resounding victory. This change in government is set to influence various sectors, including the cruise industry. Key industry stakeholders are preparing to navigate the new political landscape with renewed strategies.Political Shifts and Industry ResponseThe election outcome has introduced a Labour majority, reshaping the political terrain. Prominent Conservative figures like Mark Harper and Grant Shapps have lost seats, indicating a paradigm shift. Industry leaders, such as Andy Harmer of CLIA UK, emphasise the need for accelerated sustainability efforts and collaboration with the government.Harmer articulated…
Following Labour’s landslide victory, industry leaders are responding with a focus on collaboration and sustainability.Abta commits to engaging with the new government to emphasise the travel sector’s economic value of £49 billion annually.The importance of sustainability, particularly in aviation, is highlighted as a key focus area for governmental support.Trade leaders stress the necessity for recognising the travel industry’s contributions and propose strategic collaborations.Calls for establishing a dedicated minister of tourism aim to enhance leadership and regulation in the sector.Following Labour’s significant electoral victory, industry leaders have voiced their intent to collaborate proactively with the new administration. Abta has pledged to…
In a strategic move to enhance its high street footprint, Althams Travel has opened its 33rd shop in Wetherby. The agency is planning further growth with two additional store launches this year.Managing Director Sandra McAllister confirms the aim is to expand ‘strategically’ while preserving the company’s renowned family feel.Althams Travel is making notable strides in enhancing its presence on the high street. With the recent inauguration of its 33rd store in Wetherby, the company reaffirms its commitment to growth. This development is part of a larger strategy to open two more branches by the end of the year, demonstrating Althams’…
Dean Mattocks has been appointed as the new business development manager at Not Just Travel, a move that solidifies the company’s commitment to providing robust training and support for its consultants.With over 15 years of experience in the travel industry, Dean joined the corporate team in December 2022 and has significantly contributed to its success.Dean Mattocks’ promotion to business development manager reflects Not Just Travel’s dedication to enhancing consultant training and support. His extensive experience over 15 years in the travel industry brings invaluable insights and skills to the role.Steve Witt, the co-founder of Not Just Travel, emphasised Dean’s substantial…
Ryanair has strategically partnered with lastminute.com to include its flights in dynamic holiday packages.This decision is part of Ryanair’s continuous efforts to work with OTAs that align with its standards.Ryanair’s Strategic PartnershipsRyanair, a leader in budget air travel, has enhanced its position in the competitive airline market by announcing a partnership with lastminute.com. This move aligns with Ryanair’s strategy to collaborate with Online Travel Agencies (OTAs) that conform to certain standards. As part of this initiative, lastminute.com is now an authorised platform to offer Ryanair’s low-fare flights, integrating them into dynamic holiday packages.The airline has previously formed similar partnerships with…
A significant political shift occurred in the recent UK general election, reflecting a substantial Labour victory.Former transport secretary Grant Shapps lost his Welwyn Hatfield seat to Labour, underscoring a wider trend.The Conservative party saw several of its senior members, including Mark Harper, lose their parliamentary seats.In his concession speech, Shapps highlighted internal divisions within the Conservative party as a key issue.The Labour party’s success marks a new political landscape, prompting industry leaders to prepare for dialogue with new government leaders.The recent UK general election saw a substantial political shift as Labour secured a decisive victory. This outcome resulted in prominent…
Carnival Cruise Line has achieved record-breaking sales for 2024 and highlights the indispensable role that travel agents have played in this success. As deposits for 2025 are also at an unprecedented high, the company attributes much of this growth to the strategic partnerships with agents.During a ship visit on the Carnival Legend, Iain Baillie, the international sales vice-president, emphasised the importance of travel agents in their business strategy, noting UK guests’ increased engagement with the cruise line. This event was part of Carnival’s most extensive ship visit programme to date.The symbiotic relationship between Carnival and travel agents has proven to…
Explore Worldwide has expanded its Upgraded Collection by adding 18 new tours, enhancing luxury travel experiences.These tours span destinations like Turkey, Jordan, and Peru, offering enriched comfort without losing the brand’s core adventure ethos.Expansion of the Upgraded Collection by Explore WorldwideExplore Worldwide, renowned for its adventure-focused tours, has recently introduced 18 new tours to its Upgraded Collection. This expansion includes exotic destinations such as Turkey, Jordan, Peru, Vietnam, Botswana, and Morocco. The initiative is designed to provide travellers with a more luxurious experience while maintaining the authentic adventure spirit that Explore Worldwide is known for.Premium Accommodation and Unique ExperiencesThe Upgraded…