Author: Shawon Hannan

Anne Williams has announced her decision to leave her role as Marketing Director at Hotelplan UK.After a notable tenure of over five years, Williams seeks new professional opportunities, expressing mixed emotions about her departure.During her tenure, Anne Williams was instrumental in pioneering various innovative marketing strategies. Her leadership was marked by the successful transformation of Inghams, a legacy brand, into one with a bold new identity. This transformation reflected a strengthened sense of purpose, aiming to resonate with a modern audience while honouring the brand’s heritage.Through these channels, Williams aimed to inspire creativity within her team, fostering an environment where…

Global Ports Holding has reported a notable 46% increase in passenger numbers. This rise underscores the successful growth trajectory of the cruise sector.The surge in passenger numbers is accompanied by a 47% rise in financial returns, indicating strong sector performance.The world’s largest cruise port operator, Global Ports Holding, has recorded a remarkable 46% increase in passenger numbers over the past year, reaching 13.4 million. This growth is attributed to the expansion of operations with the inclusion of new ports and the overall growth in the cruise sector. This surge reflects the industry’s upward trajectory.Global Ports Holding reported an impressive increase…

Travellers are now advised to allow extra time for check-in at Birmingham Airport due to ongoing construction and security updates.Given the development of new security facilities and recent changes in airport regulations, passengers are encouraged to arrive earlier to ensure a smooth journey.Increased Check-In Time RecommendationsTravellers departing from Birmingham Airport should now plan to arrive at least three hours before their scheduled flights, with an advisory of four hours for long-haul destinations. This guidance aims to accommodate the ongoing development of a new £50 million security area, which is expected to enhance future travel experiences.The airport, in collaboration with travel…

Ambassador Cruise Line has unveiled a double booking incentive for agents to encourage winter sailings. This special promotion begins today and offers unique opportunities for agents booking trips from several UK ports.With the aim to boost winter bookings, Ambassador Cruise Line is rolling out an attractive offer for travel agents. This initiative promises rewards in the form of uncapped Love2Shop vouchers, providing added value for bookings on select itineraries and departures.Ambassador Cruise Line’s new offer is set to motivate agents to increase bookings for winter sailings. It includes uncapped £20 Love2Shop vouchers for bookings made before July 10, applicable to…

A surge in extreme weather conditions has sparked wildfires and home evacuations in Cyprus and Greece.Paphos in Cyprus faces extreme heat with temperatures rising to 45°C, prompting evacuations due to wildfires.Greece has dispatched firefighting planes to Cyprus while dealing with its heat warning and a 4.9 magnitude earthquake.The Greek weather service has issued its inaugural summer heat warning with temperatures hitting up to 43°C.Tourist spots in Greece, like the Acropolis, have closed due to heat, as wildfires remain a significant threat.As temperatures soar to an extreme 45°C in Paphos, Cyprus finds itself grappling with severe wildfires that have forced residents…

The expedition cruise sector has identified the growth of the UK market as a central concern for 2024. This insight stems from a survey conducted by the Expedition Cruise Network, highlighting an upward trend in demand for varied cruise experiences.The survey, part of the network’s biannual review, gathered data from 12 of its 23 members. These members reported increasing interest in extended cruises, group travel, and premium experiences, setting the stage for strategic advancements in the coming year.A recent survey by the Expedition Cruise Network reveals that enhancing the UK market is now an emphatic focus for 2024. Members shared…

The keel laying ceremony for Celebrity Cruises’ latest vessel, Celebrity Xcel, signifies a pivotal development in the company’s Edge-series. Held at Chantiers de l’Atlantique in France, this event marks the commencement of construction on the fifth Edge-class ship, which aims to redefine luxury cruising.Scheduled to debut in November 2025, Celebrity Xcel is set to embark on seven-night itineraries throughout the Caribbean. This addition highlights the brand’s continuous innovation, featuring a tri-fuel engine that supports the company’s sustainability objectives. The ceremony drew notable figures from the maritime and cruise industry.The significant keel laying ceremony, a time-honoured maritime tradition, took place at…

Jet2 has announced its intention to legally pursue a passenger responsible for causing significant disruption on a flight from Glasgow to Tenerife.Following an unruly incident, the aircraft was diverted to Shannon Airport, resulting in substantial costs, which Jet2 seeks to recover.On a recent flight from Glasgow to Tenerife, a passenger exhibited disruptive and aggressive behaviour, which necessitated an unscheduled landing. The flight was diverted to Shannon Airport for the removal and arrest of the disruptive individual by Garda officers. This action was imperative due to the escalating aggressive conduct of the 20-year-old man.Jet2 is determined to recover all costs associated…

The Explora II has reached an important developmental stage by successfully completing its sea trials, signifying readiness for passenger service.This second vessel from Explora Journeys will commence its maiden journey in August, offering a luxury cruising experience.Completion of Sea TrialsThe Explora II has successfully concluded its sea trials, marking a critical milestone in its journey towards entering service. Conducted in the Mediterranean Sea, these trials tested the ship’s speed, maneuverability, and on-board systems. The vessel’s performance met the stringent standards set by Explora Journeys and the shipbuilder, validating its readiness for passenger operations.Construction at Fincantieri ShipyardLocated in Italy, the Fincantieri…

JG Travel Group has responded to an extraordinary demand by adding an additional date to the farewell tour of acclaimed ice-skating duo Torvill & Dean.The popularity of the tour, celebrating 50 years of Torvill & Dean’s artistic achievements, has made it the top-selling package among travel agents in the UK.Torvill & Dean’s Farewell Tour SuccessThe legendary ice-skating duo Torvill & Dean have once again captivated audiences with their final tour, marking a significant milestone in their 50-year-long career. The exceptional response from fans led to the JG Travel Group adding an extra date to their itinerary, reflecting the enduring popularity…