Author: Shawon Hannan

Fred Holidays has secured the role of UK General Sales Agent (GSA) for Lindblad Expeditions, a prestigious expedition cruise line.This appointment aims to enhance the cruise line’s presence within the UK market, leveraging Fred Holidays’ expertise in sales and marketing to bolster brand recognition and growth.With nearly 60 years in the expedition cruise industry, Lindblad Expeditions operates 19 specialised vessels. These ships host between 16 to 148 guests, showcasing over 100 itineraries with more than 600 departures annually. The company is renowned for its innovative exploration and commitment to sustainable travel, allowing guests to experience unique destinations with minimal environmental…

Virgin Voyages has unveiled new ‘mini-wave’ incentives designed exclusively for their dedicated travel agent community, known as First Mates. These innovative offers aim to enhance engagement and reward performance.Following the cruise line’s Celebration Sailing event, the brand introduced these incentives to reinforce their appreciation for travel partners. The new initiatives include ‘Make Me a MerMillionaire’ and ‘First Mate Loot’, each designed to boost sales and provide substantial rewards for participating agents.Make Me a MerMillionaireVirgin Voyages has rolled out the ambitious ‘Make Me a MerMillionaire’ programme, where one exemplary First Mate will become a points millionaire. Additionally, nine other dedicated agents…

Fred Holidays celebrates a new venture as the UK general sales agent for Lindblad Expeditions, broadening its horizons in the travel sector.This strategic partnership seeks to boost Lindblad Expeditions’ visibility in the UK, targeting increased market presence and customer engagement through innovative sales strategies.Fred Holidays has been entrusted with the role of the UK general sales agent (GSA) for Lindblad Expeditions, signalling a significant expansion of the cruise line’s global footprint. The collaboration aims to elevate Lindblad Expeditions’ presence in the UK market through focused sales and marketing initiatives.The partnership between Fred Holidays and Lindblad Expeditions will actively work to…

The travel industry mourns the loss of Tom Dawson, the founder of Dawson & Sanderson, who passed away at the age of 92. Recognised for his charismatic leadership, Dawson’s influence was felt throughout the business and beyond.Tom Dawson’s remarkable journey began in 1962 with the establishment of Dawson & Sanderson in Northumberland. His vision for growth and community engagement remained steadfast throughout his life, building a legacy that will be remembered for years to come.Founded in 1962, Dawson & Sanderson originated in Ashington, Northumberland. Over the years, the company expanded significantly, establishing 20 agency branches. It diversified into business travel,…

SPL Villas has recently enhanced its leadership team by appointing Jack Wornham as the new Sales and Operations Team Leader.With over a decade of experience in the travel industry, Jack aims to optimise the company’s sales and operational processes.In a strategic move to strengthen its position in the villa rental market, SPL Villas has appointed Jack Wornham as its new Sales and Operations Team Leader. This appointment is a key part of the company’s plan to optimise its sales, reservations, and operational capabilities.Jack brings a wealth of experience from his previous roles at Classic Collection, Luxtripper, and LoveHolidays, where he…

Virgin Voyages is taking significant steps to streamline its reservation system, aiming to alleviate common issues faced by UK and Irish agents.The cruise line is set to introduce a series of automated features that will simplify administrative tasks and improve user experience.Incorporating Agent FeedbackVirgin Voyages has actively sought feedback from its agents to guide these updates. Sales manager Mark Lowman emphasised the importance of agent input: ‘You completed surveys about what would make your lives easier, and your feedback is going into a plan into the way our operation operates.’This collaborative approach ensures that the reservation system modifications are directly…

Anne Williams, former marketing director at Hotelplan UK, has begun an interim role at Mark Warner.Mark Warner, renowned for its activity-focused holidays, is set to benefit from Williams’ expertise in digital marketing.Expert Transition in LeadershipAnne Williams, who previously held the position of marketing director at Hotelplan UK, has transitioned into a new role at the renowned activity specialist, Mark Warner. Williams has taken on an interim role as the head of marketing at the company, as announced via her LinkedIn post.In her statement, Williams expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity to shape the digital marketing and brand advertising strategies for Mark…

Aqua Expeditions is poised for a substantial geographic expansion in 2025.The luxury cruise company will debut itineraries in East Africa, encompassing the stunning destinations of the Seychelles and Tanzania.Expansion into East AfricaIn an exciting development, Aqua Expeditions plans to introduce new itineraries in East Africa by December 2025. These will feature diverse sailing routes in the Seychelles and Tanzania, covering both inner and outer islands of the Seychelles. Notably, these expeditions will range from five to nine nights, with an option to combine them for a 14-night immersive experience.Diverse Itineraries PlannedThe itineraries will rotate, offering 10- and 11-night sailings that…

Air travel faced significant disruptions as Hurricane Francine swept through New Orleans, compelling airlines to cancel all flights. The hurricane struck with 100 mph winds, as reported by the US National Hurricane Center, pushing into the Louisiana coast.Thousands were left without power, and authorities declared a state of emergency in Louisiana and Mississippi, urging caution and preparing for extensive damage. Travellers and residents brace themselves for the hurricane’s impact, altering plans and seeking shelter. The situation highlights the unpredictable nature of hurricanes and the critical need for comprehensive emergency preparedness.Impact on Air TravelAs Hurricane Francine unleashed its fury, all flights…

Solmar Villas has made significant strides in strengthening its leadership team with two strategic hires. The appointments aim to bolster the company’s growth and enhance its operational efficiency.Strategic Leadership AppointmentsSolmar Villas has strategically enhanced its leadership team by appointing two highly experienced professionals to key positions. Brian Mebourne has been appointed as Chief Technology & Product Officer, bringing with him a wealth of experience from GTA, later acquired by Hotelbeds, and Open Destinations. His role will involve crafting a scalable technology strategy that spans digital and operational touchpoints of the business.Enhancing Technology and OperationsThe company has recognised the need for…