Author: Shawon Hannan
Etihad Airways is significantly increasing its flight services from Manchester to Abu Dhabi, doubling the frequency to twice daily from December. This enhancement is part of a broader strategy that also includes additional flights from several other European cities, aimed at offering flexibility and accommodating growing demand.These expanded services reflect Etihad’s strategic commitment to enhance connectivity between key destinations and support tourism growth in Abu Dhabi. Passengers will benefit from a range of options for departure and arrival times, ensuring a seamless and convenient travel experience.Expanded Flight ServicesEtihad Airways has announced a significant enhancement in its flight service, particularly from…
In a strategic move, G Adventures has announced a restructuring of its UK sales team. This change has led to the redundancy of a key position.The company aims to streamline its operations by creating a role with a new regional focus, enhancing its ability to support agency partners across the UK.G Adventures has undertaken a significant restructuring initiative within its UK sales team. As part of this transformation, the position held by global purpose specialist Katie Bunting has been rendered redundant. This strategic decision is intended to enable a more effective service to the company’s agency partners across key UK…
Riviera Travel is set to expand its fleet by introducing a new ship in 2026, coinciding with its largest-ever river cruise programme.The 178-guest Riviera Resplendence, a sister ship to the Riviera Radiance, will feature innovative dining options and luxurious accommodations, reflecting the cruise line’s commitment to enhancing guest experience.The upcoming Riviera Resplendence, accommodating 178 guests, is designed to enhance the cruising experience with its three dining venues. Among these is the innovative Mosaic restaurant, promising a unique culinary journey. This addition aims to provide travellers with more luxurious and spacious environments, including Grand Balcony suites and a split-level lounge.The ship…
Two pioneering hybrid learning programmes have been launched to elevate cruise industry standards.Designed specifically for frontline agents, these initiatives aim to enhance skills and certify participants as ‘cruise champions’.Hybrid Learning InitiativesThe cruise industry is gearing up for an education revolution with the introduction of two hybrid learning programmes by CLIA. Each programme targets key aspects of the cruise industry, specifically river and expedition cruise sectors. These initiatives seek to enhance the knowledge base of frontline agents, equipping them with the necessary skills to become certified ‘cruise champions’.Aimed at both new entrants and those with minimal experience, the programmes focus on…
Riviera Travel is set to transform the river cruise experience with its latest announcement, introducing a new ship and an expansive 2026 programme.The 178-passenger Riviera Resplendence will join the fleet in 2026 as a sister ship to the soon-to-launch Riviera Radiance.Riviera’s early announcement for 2026 sailings comes as bookings for upcoming ship launches soar, reflecting a strong market demand.The programme will feature 428 sailings across 13 ships, including 31 solo traveller departures, expanding options for diverse cruise experiences.An exclusive pre-sale event and frozen pricing aims to captivate early interest, rewarding agents and passengers alike.Riviera Travel has announced the introduction of…
Consumer interest in river and expedition cruises is soaring, marking an unprecedented high. According to Andy Harmer, managing director of CLIA UK and Ireland, this surge signifies an opportune moment for industry growth.To harness this interest, CLIA is launching two comprehensive training programmes aimed at equipping agents with essential knowledge about these burgeoning sectors. These initiatives promise to enhance industry expertise and meet growing demand.The interest in river and expedition cruising is reaching new heights, driven by an appetite for unique travel experiences. This trend aligns with broader shifts in consumer preferences towards more immersive and adventurous holidays.Andy Harmer, from…
Virgin Voyages has announced a significant overhaul of its passenger app, acknowledging the technology’s current shortcomings.With improvements aimed at enhancing user experience, the company plans to address critical issues impacting dining reservations and overall usability.Acknowledgement of IssuesVirgin Voyages’ CEO, Nirmal Saverimuttu, admitted during a business session that the app is subpar. He stated, ‘Our app is not good. It’s not stable and it doesn’t have a good user-interface.’ This frank admission reflects the company’s acknowledgement of ongoing technical issues.Saverimuttu also highlighted that the app is overly complex, trying to fulfil multiple roles similar to Uber Eats while also managing various…
Explora Journeys, a branch of MSC Group, has reached a significant milestone with the delivery of its second vessel, Explora II, in a grand €3.5 billion endeavour to forge a luxurious fleet of six by 2028.Starting her inaugural voyage from Civitavecchia, near Rome, Explora II is set to traverse Sicily, Malta, and Spain before heading to the Caribbean for the winter season. It is expected to return to the Mediterranean during the summer of 2025, offering unique experiences with each journey.A New Era in Luxury TravelExplora II is designed to create a fresh benchmark in luxury ocean travel with its…
Boeing is facing significant disruption after over 30,000 workers voted for a strike.The industrial action follows the rejection of a proposed 25% pay rise. The union members’ decision reflects their strong dissatisfaction with the contract terms offered by the company. The strike is set to commence with immediate effect, impacting operations at key Boeing facilities.Machinists Reject New ContractIn a significant decision, over 30,000 machinists working for Boeing have voted in favour of commencing strike action. This decision follows the rejection of a new contract proposal which, despite offering a 25% pay increase over four years, was deemed unsatisfactory by the…
Tui Group is on an ambitious quest to expand its hotel portfolio to 600 properties worldwide.The expansion targets growth across Asia, with new Tui Blue hotels in China and Malaysia.Tui’s strategy includes the introduction of hotels in Bangkok and Bali as future destinations.The expansion highlights a strong demand for Tui Blue’s unique blend of leisure and local experiences.Managing Director Artur Gerber emphasises Tui’s potential to enhance regional hospitality landscapes.Tui Group has initiated an ambitious plan to expand its hotel portfolio to a total of 600 properties across the globe. This significant growth strategy focuses primarily on Asia, with the recent…