Author: Shawon Hannan

Tour operators remain firm on their pricing policies, dismissing recent pleas from agents for price parity. This ongoing debate highlights the challenges in balancing fair pricing and competitive advantage.Industry’s Stance on Price ParityThe major tour operators, dubbed the ‘big three’—Tui, easyJet Holidays, and Jet2holidays—remain steadfast in their decision to maintain the existing pricing policies. Despite a fervent plea from Lynne Cuthbertson of The Big Surprise, urging these operators to standardise prices to avoid the impression of overcharging customers, these companies have shown no intention of altering their current model. The call for price parity is not a novel issue; it…

This August, a significant increase in air fares was observed, marking a notable rise in travel costs.According to new data, air fares surged by 22%, representing the second largest hike since 2001.Overview of Air Fare HikeIn August, air fares experienced a substantial increase, marking the second largest hike in over two decades. This rise was officially recorded in the annual inflation figures released recently. Despite this surge, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) noted a contrasting decline of 2.1% in the same period last year. This trend highlights significant volatility in air travel costs during peak seasons.Factors Contributing to Price…

A new study by the European Travel Commission (ETC) underscores the mounting difficulties faced by the global tourism sector. Increasingly frequent and severe crises are pushing resilience from a luxury to a necessity.The sector is notably vulnerable to extreme weather events, geopolitical conflicts, and technological failures. These disruptions demand urgent and coordinated action from all stakeholders. This article delves into the key findings and implications of the ETC report.Tourism and Global Crises: A Vulnerable SectorThe European Travel Commission (ETC) recently released a comprehensive study titled “Crises in Tourism: Impacts and Lessons from European Destinations,” highlighting the pressing challenges facing the…

Carnival Cruise Line has successfully concluded an extensive ship visit programme, setting a new record in the UK.Over three months, the company hosted 250 agents onboard Carnival Legend, offering tours and insights.The ship visit programme, held between June and August 2024, marked a significant engagement with UK travel agents. Across multiple cities including Dover, Liverpool, Edinburgh, and Belfast, Carnival welcomed agents to experience the grandeur of Carnival Legend. This initiative aimed to provide agents with first-hand experience, enabling them to better understand and promote the Carnival experience.Agents were offered comprehensive insights into the facilities and services aboard, which are integral…

Italy braces for intensified flooding as severe weather conditions persist across Europe.Warnings have been issued, impacting regions from Emilia-Romagna to the south.Recent storms have resulted in significant flooding in central and eastern Europe.Poland, the Czech Republic, Romania, and Austria experienced deadly floods, with 21 casualties reported.Croatia, Hungary, and Slovakia brace for potential river surges and travel disruptions.Italy is preparing for potential severe flooding as weather forecasts predict continued heavy rain and strong winds. The regions spanning from Emilia-Romagna to southern Italy are on high alert following severe storms that have already affected other parts of Europe. Authorities are closely monitoring…

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings President and CEO Harry Sommer has articulated ambitious plans for the company’s growth.During a dinner with travel agents in Venice, Sommer outlined strategies aimed at tripling the company’s market share and strengthening trade relationships.Expansion Plans and Market PotentialHarry Sommer, President and CEO of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH), has set ambitious goals for the company’s growth. During a recent dinner with travel agents in Venice, Sommer discussed plans to triple the size of the company and increase the cruise market’s footprint. “We have 13 ships on order. You’ve got a partner you can grow with and…

SAS has announced a major shift in its operational focus towards Copenhagen. The Danish capital is set to become the airline’s primary international hub strategically aligned with its recent membership in the SkyTeam alliance.This decision marks a significant step in SAS’s post-restructuring strategy, leveraging Copenhagen’s central European location. The airline aims to enhance its connectivity on both European and global levels, offering more travel options to its passengers.Copenhagen: The New Scandinavian HubSAS is reorienting its operations with Copenhagen as the core of its international network. The move follows its entrance into the SkyTeam alliance, aligning with its strategic objectives post-financial…

Silversea’s new luxury liner, Silver Nova, is set to transform the cruising scene in the Asia-Pacific. This marks the beginning of an exciting chapter for both the cruise line and its discerning clientele.Introducing Silver NovaThe Silver Nova, the latest in Silversea’s luxury cruise offerings, marks its debut in the Asia-Pacific region. Upon arriving in Kushiro, Japan, on 27th September, her inaugural season opens with voyages across rich cultural landscapes.Silver Nova offers a glimpse into experiential luxury travel, highlighting its advanced energy efficiency and architectural innovations. The ship promises a blend of opulence and sustainability, enhancing the cruising experience.Planned ItinerariesWith plans…

In a remarkable celebration of outstanding achievement, GoCruise & Travel honoured its top 20 franchisees at a luxurious two-day event.Agents who surpassed the £1 million sales mark were lauded at the prestigious Carden Park Hotel & Spa near Chester, underscoring their exceptional contribution.Exclusive Event for Top PerformersGoCruise & Travel recently hosted an exclusive event to recognise its highest-achieving franchisees. The two-day event took place at the five-star Carden Park Hotel & Spa, providing a luxurious backdrop for the celebration. Agents who achieved over £1 million in sales were invited, highlighting their significant contributions to the company’s success.Doubling the Number of…

HX has announced its 2026-2027 expeditions, unveiling new polar and global itineraries. These journeys will cover Antarctica, Alaska, Greenland, Norway, and the Galápagos.The new expeditions highlight HX’s commitment to unique experiences, combining local partnerships with extensive maritime expertise to ensure positive impacts on communities visited.HX’s new range of expeditions underscores the company’s dedication to sustainability. Alex McNeil, Chief Expedition Officer, noted, “We’re building on over a century of maritime expertise by enhancing local partnerships and community-focused experiences, ensuring a lasting, positive impact wherever we go.”This approach aligns with growing industry trends towards more responsible and community-oriented travel.HX’s 2026-2027 expeditions represent…