Author: Shawon Hannan

Cruise Lines International Association (Clia) has announced the dates for its highly anticipated Cruise Week 2024, setting the stage for a significant event in the cruise sector.Scheduled for 16-22 September, this annual event is expected to spotlight global destinations and attract increased interest in cruising. Clia members will receive a wealth of promotional materials to support their engagement efforts.Cruise Week 2024 OverviewClia UK & Ireland’s Managing Director, Andy Harmer, officially confirmed the Cruise Week 2024 dates during a recent media event in London. The event aims to highlight the cruise industry’s unique offerings, with a special emphasis on destinations. Social…

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Brilliant Travel has successfully concluded its inaugural series of regional member meetings, marking a milestone in its member engagement strategy. These meetings were designed to bring comprehensive business updates and foster collaborative conversations across its expanding membership.Introduction of Regional EngagementsBrilliant Travel has taken a significant step in enhancing member engagement by hosting its first-ever series of regional meetings. The sessions were strategically held in major cities including Glasgow, Newcastle, Manchester, and Birmingham to cater to its geographically diverse membership base.These events were part of the company’s initiative to bring crucial updates directly to its members. Topics covered included business strategy,…

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More than 100 travel agents had the opportunity to explore the Nieuw Statendam, a Pinnacle Class ship by Holland America Line, marking the largest trade ship visit ever hosted by the cruise line.This significant event aimed to provide agents with first-hand experience and deeper insights into the ship’s offerings and upcoming itineraries, positioning them better to serve their clientele.Event HighlightsAgents from across the country embarked the Nieuw Statendam in Liverpool, participating in an event organised by Holland America Line’s dedicated UK trade team. The agenda included a comprehensive brand presentation, a guided ship tour, and a three-course lunch. This immersive…

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On the 26th of June, Holland America Line orchestrated its largest trade ship visit, welcoming over 100 agents aboard the Nieuw Statendam in Liverpool.This remarkable gathering provided travel agents from across the UK an in-depth experience of the Pinnacle class vessel, marking a significant event in the cruise industry for both participants and organizers.Agents were warmly received on the Nieuw Statendam, beginning the day with an informative brand presentation that set the stage for their tour. This was followed by a guided exploration of the ship and an elegant three-course lunch, offering a genuine taste of the exclusive on-board offerings.These…

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Jet2 has announced new flights from Birmingham, Manchester, and Leeds Bradford to Jerez, starting summer 2025.This strategic move aims to boost connectivity to the Costa de la Luz region, marking Jerez as Jet2’s 14th Spanish airport.Jet2 Expands Its Reach in SpainJet2.com and Jet2holidays are set to broaden their Spanish horizons by adding Jerez to their list of destinations in the summer of 2025. This expansion aims to fortify the airline’s presence in the Spanish market, enhancing travel options to the picturesque Costa de la Luz region.With the introduction of the Jerez flights, Jet2holidays also plans to spotlight holiday packages in…

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A-Rosa River Cruises has amplified its efforts to tap into the UK groups market, creating new opportunities for its agent partners. With a strategic push supported by a digital brochure, the company aims to highlight the advantages of group bookings, encouraging agents to expand their sales strategies.Strategic Marketing Initiatives for GroupsA-Rosa River Cruises is making significant strides in targeting the UK groups market as part of its strategic marketing efforts. By launching an eight-page digital brochure, the company showcases the group benefits and a variety of themed cruises specifically designed to appeal to group travellers.The initiative, spearheaded by Michelle Daniels,…

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Playa Hotels & Resorts is set to enhance its team as Nicola Francis joins as the new market manager for the UK, Ireland, and Spain.Francis will play a crucial role in boosting agent engagement and organising face-to-face events to foster better partnerships.Her responsibilities include delivering marketing strategies and introducing new property initiatives across the regions.Francis, with over 17 years of experience, brings in-depth knowledge, especially from the Caribbean sector, to the role.Playa Hotels & Resorts welcomes her at a strategic time, focusing on strengthening relationships with travel agents.Playa Hotels & Resorts is set to fortify its team with the strategic…

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The Sandals resort in St Vincent is hailed as a game-changer for the island’s tourism sector.St Vincent’s new Sandals resort is seen as a ‘transformational’ addition, offering significant potential for growth.The 301-room all-inclusive hotel opened in March, marking Sandals’ 18th Caribbean development.Tourism minister Carlos James emphasises sustainable development, steering away from mass tourism.Efforts involve strategic partnerships and training to integrate various luxury brands on the island.The recent opening of the Sandals resort in St Vincent marks a significant evolution in the island’s tourism landscape. Described as ‘transformational’ by tourism leaders, this 301-room, all-inclusive hotel opened its doors in March and…

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RateHawk’s move to expand its team in the UK and Ireland signals a strategic step towards market growth. The addition of experienced industry leaders underscores its commitment to service excellence and competitive positioning.With Chantal Tomlinson heading business development and Laura Harrison bringing extensive experience, RateHawk is poised to expand its footprint and strengthen its market position. Their strategic appointments highlight the company’s focus on enhancing service value and driving growth in a competitive landscape.Strategic LeadershipRateHawk, a prominent B2B booking platform, has strategically strengthened its team in the UK and Ireland in a bid to expand its market footprint. At the…

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Post-COVID travel intentions among Gen Z are witnessing a significant drop due to rising cost pressures.Recent studies highlight that these financial constraints primarily impact overseas trips, pushing Gen Z to reconsider their travel plans.Gen Z’s Shifting Travel IntentionsCost pressures are leading younger individuals to reconsider travel plans, with a notable quarter of Gen Z consumers not intending to take a holiday in the next three months, a rise from 18% previously. This trend suggests a marked impact across generations, but Gen Z appears more significantly affected, with overseas travel particularly declining.The Overseas Travel DeclineOverseas travel ambitions among Gen Z are…

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