Author: News Team
Celestyal has unveiled a significant expansion in its Arabian Gulf and Mediterranean cruise offerings, increasing capacity by 30%.This strategic move highlights Celestyal’s focus on enhancing its presence in key travel regions, particularly through the introduction of innovative itineraries featuring its flagship vessels, Celestyal Discovery and Celestyal Journey.Expansion of Cruise OfferingsThe introduction of Celestyal’s expanded cruise itineraries marks a noteworthy development in the cruise industry. With a 30% increase in capacity, the Arabian Gulf and Mediterranean regions are set to experience a surge in travel opportunities. Such growth is driven by the addition of the Celestyal Discovery and Celestyal Journey to…
European air connectivity is yet to fully recover from the impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic, according to recent findings.Despite improvements in air traffic, connectivity levels remain significantly below those of 2019, facing several complex challenges.Current State of European Air ConnectivityThe recovery of air connectivity across Europe has been slower than anticipated, remaining 14% below pre-Covid levels as of now. Despite a near-complete rebound in air traffic and passenger numbers, the overall connectivity has not fully recovered. This is highlighted in the latest report by the Airports Council International (ACI) Europe.The report cites various reasons for the ‘weak’ recovery, including geopolitical…
The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) is preparing to publish its latest assessment of airport accessibility. This follows a comprehensive review of the progress made by airports across the country regarding the ease of access for disabled and less-mobile passengers.The assessment seeks to determine the effectiveness of airports in providing necessary assistance to ensure all passengers are catered for adequately.Consistency in delivering accessibility services remains a top priority for the CAA, ensuring all passengers’ needs are met across various airports.Airports are encouraged to adopt flexible approaches that cater to evolving requirements, promoting inclusivity and accessibility in the aviation sector.The CAA’s…
Intrepid Travel has introduced a new sustainability handbook aimed at assisting travel agents in promoting sustainable tourism.This handbook serves as a practical tool, offering facts, product case studies, and clear definitions to aid agents in discussing sustainability.Global environmental impact manager Dr. Susanne Etta emphasised the handbook’s role in empowering agents to articulate sustainable travel effectively.The intention behind the handbook is to inspire agents to integrate sustainability into their skillset, influencing customer choices for positive change.Intrepid emphasizes that the shared insights presented in the handbook are meant to support industry-wide education without a competitive edge.Intrepid Travel, a leader in sustainable tourism,…
Security staff at Glasgow and Aberdeen airports avert a potential strike through accepting a new remuneration package.An agreement brokered by the Unite union promises significant financial improvements, easing tensions among workers.Strike Averted Through NegotiationThe recent threat of industrial action by security staff at Glasgow and Aberdeen airports has been effectively neutralised. This comes after employees overwhelmingly voted to accept a newly proposed pay deal. The new agreement, which was facilitated by the Unite union, encompasses a robust pay increase of up to 12.8%. Such decisive negotiations have prevented the disruption of operations at these key airports, much to the relief…
Qantas Airways is expanding its reach in Europe by initiating direct flights from Perth to Paris, enhancing connectivity between the continents.This strategic move not only offers increased seating capacity but also reinforces Western Australia’s tourism potential by integrating Paris into its non-stop service roster.Qantas Adds Paris to Direct RoutesQantas Airways has expanded its European network by adding Paris as a direct flight destination from Australia. This addition is significant as it positions Paris as only the third European city directly connected to Australia by Qantas, joining London and Rome. The new route will see approximately 75,000 seats added annually, providing…
Sustainable tourism must be embraced by local communities, according to TUI’s chief executive, Sebastian Ebel. A recent meeting in Madrid gathered tourism leaders to discuss solutions for over-tourism and the promotion of sustainable practices.The discussion, set amidst protests in various Spanish regions, focused on the importance of local collaboration to enhance tourism’s benefits. Ebel emphasised the need for cooperation between the community, government, and industry to develop sustainable tourism models.The Importance of Local SupportTUI’s chief executive Sebastian Ebel underscored that tourism thrives when it has the acceptance and support of local populations. Local communities play a pivotal role in determining…
Assisting disabled travellers requires proactive and thoughtful planning. It’s not just those with visible disabilities who need support.Many disabilities are not immediately apparent, making it essential to offer reliable assistance services to all clients.When considering accessible travel, it’s common to focus on visible disabilities, like those requiring a wheelchair. However, a significant proportion of disabilities are invisible, making proactive assistance crucial.Challenges arise when disabilities are not clearly communicated. Clients may not always be aware of the available support. As travel professionals, it is imperative to identify potential needs and gently offer relevant assistance services.Both families expressed their immense gratitude, proving…
The current climate for travel agents and operators relying on Youtravel is fraught with ambiguity. Recent developments have left many unsure about the bookings scheduled beyond July 26.The pending resolution of Youtravel’s financial concerns is crucial, especially as the industry edges towards its peak season. The company remains operational, yet many stakeholders are opting for caution.Current State of AffairsThe situation concerning Youtravel’s future remains a complex and evolving issue. Following the parent company’s insolvency, agents and operators with bookings through the platform are left uncertain about forthcoming arrangements. Despite these challenges, Youtravel has maintained that its operations are ongoing, and…
In a moment of maritime tradition, Four Seasons Yachts has embarked on a significant journey with the keel-laying of its first yacht, Four Seasons I, heralding a new chapter in luxury sea travel.The ceremony, held at the esteemed Fincantieri shipyard in Ancona, Italy, marks the official commencement of construction on this all-suite vessel, set to begin its inaugural season in January 2026.The keel-laying ceremony is a respected maritime tradition, symbolising the official start of a vessel’s construction. This event took place in collaboration with Marc-Henry Cruise Holdings and Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri. Specially chosen coins were welded to the ship’s bottom,…