Author: News Team

Railbookers is calling on agents to promote rail travel as it expands offerings.The company plans to launch operations in southeast Asia and return to Japan.Recent UK sales growth has been modest amid economic challenges.Rail travel is seen as an underutilised opportunity within the travel sector.Efforts are being made to educate agents about the benefits of rail travel.Railbookers is advocating for travel agents to more actively promote rail travel options, recognising its potential as a compelling choice for customers. The company is expanding its portfolio to include southeast Asia, with imminent launches in Laos and Vietnam, and planning a return to…

Gold Medal’s recent integration with Inspiretec’s Agent platform marks a pivotal development in travel technology, automating data processes for agents. This partnership advances booking management by ensuring seamless data transfer, reducing errors and enhancing customer service.Through this collaboration, Gold Medal and Inspiretec streamline travel agency operations, empowering agents with tools that facilitate faster service delivery and personalised client experiences. The integration reflects a shared commitment to technological advancement and operational efficiency.Revolutionising Agency ManagementThe integration of Gold Medal’s API into Inspiretec’s Agent platform represents a significant advancement in travel booking management. This collaboration automates the transfer of booking data, eliminating manual…

The 2024 Cruise Summit unveiled significant industry insights, with a spotlight on sustainability and youth engagement.Held at News UK’s offices, this event drew nearly 175 cruise professionals and experts, exploring future opportunities and challenges.Sustainability in the Cruise IndustryAt the 2024 Cruise Summit, sustainability emerged as a critical agenda. Andy Harmer, managing director of CLIA UK, emphasised the urgent need for infrastructure improvements to support sustainable practices. “We require governmental backing to expedite alternative fuel availability,” he declared. Current progress in Europe surpasses that in the UK, necessitating immediate action.Moreover, it was highlighted that half of cruise lines do not sufficiently…

Andrew Fish’s appointment as UK head of sales marks a significant strategic move for Norse Atlantic Airways.With extensive industry experience, he is set to enhance the airline’s engagement with the travel trade.Norse Atlantic Airways has strategically appointed Andrew Fish as their new UK head of sales, a move that underscores their commitment to fostering relationships within the trade. With a robust 25-year tenure in the airline industry, Fish brings a wealth of experience from notable carriers such as Air Astana, Finnair, and Gulf Air. This appointment aims to leverage Fish’s expertise to enhance Norse Atlantic’s market presence in the UK.As…

Jet2.com and Jet2CityBreaks have unveiled their most extensive Iceland winter programme yet, offering flights from 12 UK airports for the 2025-26 season.With new routes from Bournemouth and Liverpool John Lennon airports, and over 170 outbound flights planned, this marks a 6% capacity increase. The programme responds to growing demand from early bookers for Iceland’s natural wonders.Unprecedented Reach Across the UKJet2.com is setting benchmarks by offering the largest network of flights from the UK to Iceland, now including Bournemouth and Liverpool. This unprecedented coverage allows travellers greater convenience and choice, highlighting the UK’s growing appetite for Icelandic adventures. The expansion aims…

Cunard, Carnival Cruise Line, Holland America Line, P&O Cruises, Princess Cruises, and Seabourn have inaugurated an innovative Fred Olsen Travel store.Located in Ringwood, this multi-brand concept aims to consolidate varied cruise experiences under one roof, offering enhanced consumer engagement.Cunard, Carnival Cruise Line, Holland America Line, P&O Cruises, Princess Cruises, and Seabourn have united to support a new Fred Olsen Travel concept store located in Ringwood, Hampshire. This novel establishment, inaugurated on 19 June, marks the first multi-brand concept store within the agency’s portfolio, aiming to present multiple cruise brands under one umbrella.The partnership has resulted in a three-year agreement, wherein…

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…