Author: Shawon Hannan

Carnival Corporation has partnered with Fred Olsen Travel to open a new concept store in Ringwood, Hampshire. This collaboration marks a unique venture as six cruise brands come together to enhance brand visibility and market reach.Officially inaugurated this week, the new outlet promises to revolutionise the way cruise offerings are presented on the high street, showcasing each brand with dedicated marketing and promotional spaces. The initiative highlights collaborative strategies in the cruise industry.The collaboration between Carnival Corporation and Fred Olsen Travel represents a strategic alignment of interests aimed at redefining high street travel retailing. By showcasing multiple brands under one…

Business travel management platform, Travelperk, aims to significantly increase its revenues in the US through a strategic acquisition.The company has acquired Chicago-based TMC AmTrav, supported by a new $135 million credit facility from Blackstone and Blue Owl.With the strategic acquisition of Chicago-based travel management company (TMC) AmTrav, Travelperk is poised to double its revenue in the United States. Supported by a robust $135 million credit facility led by asset management groups Blackstone and Blue Owl, this acquisition marks a significant milestone in Travelperk’s expansion strategy.The deal is underpinned by a $135 million credit facility from prominent asset management firms Blackstone…

Aer Lingus has announced that its transatlantic services from Manchester will continue without disruption, despite industrial action by pilots. The action, however, is expected to affect other flight schedules significantly.The planned strike, commencing June 26, is set during the peak holiday season, prompting concerns over potential travel disruptions. However, the airline is committed to communicating directly with affected customers and working on suitable solutions.Transatlantic flights from Manchester and regional services between the UK and Ireland operated by Aer Lingus remain unaffected by the planned industrial strike. This assurance comes amidst the announcement of industrial action by the Irish Airline Pilots’…

Abercrombie & Kent has launched a new destination management company (DMC) in Mexico, reinforcing its commitment to Latin America.Led by Graeme Bull, the new Mexican DMC aims to provide unique travel experiences that align with the rich tapestry of Mexico’s heritage.This move coincides with Abercrombie & Kent’s plans to open new properties in Yucatan, enhancing their geographic footprint.Rebecca Osman highlights Mexico’s longstanding appeal, asserting the DMC opening is a natural progression.The Mexican DMC will offer bespoke itineraries and 24/7 support, further advancing Abercrombie & Kent’s service offerings.Luxury travel operator Abercrombie & Kent has taken a significant step forward by opening…

Tipto has expanded its 25th anniversary tour by scheduling an additional roadshow in Swansea. This expansion marks a record-breaking year for the company.The event aims to provide travel agents with insights into new products and industry trends through interactive sessions featuring Tipto’s supplier members.Tipto has announced the addition of another roadshow date to commemorate its 25th anniversary. This added event will take place at the Swansea.com Stadium on 17 July. Such milestones mark a significant achievement for the organisation, which aims to engage travel agents in a unique, interactive session. With a total of 36 events, this year is set…

Crystal Ski Holidays has introduced new options for beginner skiers.The company now offers packages in Austria, France, and Andorra.Crystal Ski Holidays has introduced an expanded range of ski packages specifically tailored for beginners. This is the third consecutive year that they have enhanced this offering. Slope Starters, aimed at novice skiers and snowboarders, is now available in Niederau, Austria, in addition to locations in Soldeu, Andorra and Flaine, France. This expansion reflects the company’s commitment to broadening accessibility and providing more options for those new to the sport.The Niederau Slope Starters beginner week is scheduled for February 1-8, 2025, while…

Royal Caribbean has announced a leadership change in its EMEA operations, appointing Gerard Nolan as the new vice-president.Nolan, a veteran of the industry, brings extensive experience from his role at Celebrity Cruises, positioning him to lead the company into a new era of growth.Leadership Transition at Royal CaribbeanIn a significant strategic move, Royal Caribbean has appointed Gerard Nolan as the new vice-president for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (EMEA). Taking over from Ben Bouldin, Nolan steps into the role at a time when the company is poised for expansion and innovation in these key markets. His appointment signals a…

Silversea’s new president has unveiled plans to regionalise the cruise line’s fleet, aiming to address inefficiencies identified in past itineraries. These changes are set to offer guests more location-focused journeys.This move comes as the company seeks to enhance operational efficiency by minimising the need for extensive repositioning, allowing for a better travel experience.Strategic Regionalisation to Enhance Operational EfficiencySilversea’s new approach involves strategically positioning its fleet to avoid inefficient global repositioning. The company’s new president, Bert Hernandez, expressed his surprise at the inefficiency of past itineraries, emphasising the need for a shift. By adopting regionalisation, Silversea can draft itineraries that are…

Royal Caribbean International has appointed Gerard Nolan as the new vice president for Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA) following the departure of Ben Bouldin.Nolan brings a wealth of experience from his years at Royal Caribbean Group, particularly in the Celebrity Cruises division, positioning him as a strategic leader for upcoming brand initiatives.Gerard Nolan’s journey with Royal Caribbean began in 2006 when he joined the Celebrity Cruises division. Over the years, he has held a variety of senior management roles that have significantly influenced the brand’s operations. As the associate vice president, commercial at Celebrity Cruises, he successfully oversaw…

The European summer travel scene is witnessing significant changes, with safety and affordability being pivotal factors for potential tourists.Research from the European Travel Commission reveals interesting shifts, as travellers from long-haul markets deliberate on their travel choices. These considerations come amid fluctuating travel patterns compared to pre-pandemic days.The European Travel Commission (ETC) has shed light on the current outlook for European summer travel. According to their comprehensive study involving 7,000 participants from key long-haul markets, there is a significant interest in overseas trips, with 59% of respondents considering travel. This reflects a notable trend in comparison to the pre-pandemic levels…