Author: Shawon Hannan
Hurtigruten has taken a strategic step to strengthen its brand presence by appointing a new Head of Marketing.Prini Patel, with a robust background in the travel industry, is set to lead efforts in enhancing brand recognition across the UK and EMEA regions.Hurtigruten has recently announced the appointment of Prini Patel as its new Head of Marketing for the UK and EMEA markets. With over two decades of experience in the travel sector, Patel is set to lead the marketing team towards enhancing brand visibility and demand within these regions. Her role will involve strategic management and collaboration with trade partners.The…
Dr Michael Mosley, famous for his insightful health programmes, was poised to engage cruise audiences as a guest speaker.Scheduled for a Saga cruise, his appearance promised to enhance the travel experience with engaging health discussions, enriching the voyage.Dr Michael Mosley, a renowned TV and radio presenter, was scheduled to be a celebrity speaker aboard a Saga cruise. The event was a 30-night Caribbean journey commencing from Portsmouth on November 5. It was part of a collaboration with BBC Studios, where Dr Mosley was set to discuss his health and wellbeing programme, known for its informative content.Dr Mosley was reported missing…
American Airlines recently revisited its New Distribution Capability (NDC) strategy, realising the need for a more inclusive approach with travel management companies (TMCs).This decision stemmed from significant financial repercussions and feedback from stakeholders, prompting a strategic pivot to regain partners’ trust and enhance business performance.American Airlines initially implemented NDC technology with the intent to modernise its booking channels. However, this approach overlooked the integration challenges faced by travel management companies (TMCs) and agents, leading to a fractious relationship between American Airlines and its trade partners. The abrupt withdrawal of fares from Global Distribution Systems (GDSs) further exacerbated the issue.Market reactions…
The unexpected reimplementation of hand luggage liquid restrictions in UK airports has sparked passenger confusion. Announced by the Department for Transport, the sudden policy shift affects a select group of airports, raising concerns over communication and efficiency in aviation security.Government’s Sudden Policy RevisionThe abrupt reinstatement of hand luggage liquid restrictions at UK airports has caused widespread confusion. Announced by the Department for Transport, this policy change affects passengers departing from six regional airports with Next Generation Security Checkpoints (NGSC).Despite efforts to install new scanners that allow for up to two litres of liquids, the decision to revert to the 100ml…
Experiencing a Fred Olsen Cruise Lines fam trip allowed me to challenge many preconceived notions about the brand. The trip provided firsthand insights, which proved invaluable upon returning to work.The frequent assumption that Fred Olsen Cruise Lines is predominantly for older passengers is widespread. Many customers dismiss the brand for this reason, and admittedly, I used to share this view.However, the fam trip revealed a different reality. There were indeed guests ‘of a certain age’, but I was surprised and somewhat disappointed to find many younger travellers and even a few families aboard.Fred Olsen Cruise Lines may not appeal to…
EasyJet Holidays announces a significant partnership with Iberostar to provide discounts for trade agents. The offer enables agents to secure up to £100 in savings for eligible bookings, boosting their service appeal.This collaboration reflects a commitment to enhancing agent support and delivering superior value to customers, with a booking deadline of June 13. Departures extend until October 31, offering flexibility for holiday planning.Collaboration OverviewEasyJet Holidays has formed a strategic collaboration with Iberostar Hotels to introduce new trade discounts on package holidays. This partnership enables agents to pass on savings to customers, enhancing the value proposition of their holiday packages. By…
TTC Tour Brands recently orchestrated a day-long event in London, hosting 30 agents to foster deeper engagement with trade partners.This initiative is part of a strategic push to enhance the visibility of its brands and to cultivate a robust network of informed agents.An Engaging Initiative by TTC Tour BrandsIn an effort to bolster engagement within the trade sector, TTC Tour Brands organised an exclusive day out in London for 30 agents, showcasing the diverse experiences their brands offer. The initiative underscores the company’s commitment to strengthening relationships with trade partners and enhancing its brand visibility across the UK.The initiative is…
Jacqueline Dobson, known for her impactful leadership within Barrhead Travel, has ascended to a prominent executive role within Internova Travel Group.Her expanded oversight now includes four leading US-based leisure brands, signalling a new phase of strategic integration and operational enhancement.Strategic Leadership ExpansionOn the 7th of June 2024, Jacqueline Dobson, a prominent figure in the travel industry, ascended to a significant strategic role within Internova Travel Group. Her appointment as president of the leisure division underscores her expansive oversight, now including renowned US brands like Andrew Harper and Cruise Specialists. This move signifies Internova’s commitment to integrating its operations across continents…
Seabourn has launched an initiative to elevate group bookings, providing travel agents with versatile economic incentives and improved booking flexibility.Effective from autumn 2025, the Enhanced Groups Programme allows agents to maximise client value and increase sales efficiency in the luxury cruise sector.Introduction of the Enhanced Groups ProgrammeThe Seabourn Enhanced Groups Programme is set to enrich travel advisors’ business opportunities by offering a simplified group booking process. Agents will benefit from shipboard credit or bonus commission, streamlining the way group sales are conducted. This initiative is seen as a way to efficiently enhance trade sales and broaden market reach among travel…
The Hays Travel branch in Sutton is gaining traction through its feature in a national television advert. This strategic move aims to bolster its local and regional presence, drawing in more customers from southwest London and beyond.The 30-second commercial, which runs on ITV until August, highlights the Sutton location and showcases staff engaging in travel-related activities. This heightened visibility is expected to drive footfall and inquiries at the Sutton branch.Boosting Local Presence Through TV ExposureThe Hays Travel branch in Sutton is leveraging its appearance in a national TV advert to enhance its local and regional profile. The advert, which is…