Author: Shawon Hannan

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has applauded the decision by the Swedish government to eliminate its aviation tax starting from July 1, 2025.Critics argue that the tax was a burden on Sweden’s economic competitiveness and had failed to deliver any environmental benefits.Economic Implications of the TaxThe aviation tax in Sweden, which ranged from SEK76-504 (£5.63-£37.35) depending on travel destinations, was regarded as an economic impediment. Rafael Schvartzman, IATA’s regional vice-president for Europe, highlighted that the tax was counterproductive, harming both the economy and environment. Its removal signals an intention to improve air connectivity, thus enhancing economic productivity and increasing…

Pure Luxury has launched an enticing campaign designed to capture the attention of travel agents. Their latest offering, Late Escapes, stands out with a detailed 60-page brochure accompanied by exclusive holiday deals.Travel agents are presented with a golden opportunity to engage with Pure Luxury’s latest initiative, which features spectacular escapes to Dubai and Thailand. This campaign promises to invigorate the market with its exquisite travel options.Overview of the Late Escapes CampaignPure Luxury’s latest campaign focuses on enticing travel agents with unique benefits. The Late Escapes initiative is more than just a promotion; it is a strategic move to penetrate the…

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection has expanded its fleet with the addition of a second luxury superyacht named Ilma. Set to redefine luxury sea travel, Ilma embarked on its maiden voyage from Monte Carlo to Rome on September 2, 2024.With a strong focus on providing unparalleled guest experiences, Ilma marks a significant development in luxury maritime travel. This new vessel promises to deliver bespoke journeys across the Mediterranean, Caribbean, and for the first time, the North and Baltic seas.Ilma’s inaugural journey set sail from Monte Carlo, arriving in Rome over a seven-night cruise on September 2, 2024. This marks the beginning…

Kuoni, a leading travel operator, has expanded its Caribbean offerings, introducing Jamaica and the Dominican Republic to its programme. This expansion aims to cater to diverse customer preferences, offering a wide range of holiday experiences.In a strategic move to strengthen its Caribbean presence, Kuoni has added Jamaica and the Dominican Republic to its destinations. This development is a key part of the company’s initiative to provide varied holiday experiences, accommodating both families and couples seeking luxury or all-inclusive options.To celebrate the launch of Jamaica and the Dominican Republic within its portfolio, Kuoni is offering promotional discounts of up to £200…

UTC Travel Club’s strategic move sees the appointment of three industry veterans to its advisory board, marking a significant step towards its growth ambitions.Steve Allen, Jo Rzymowska, and Chris Photi bring extensive experience and leadership to their new roles with UTC Travel.The subscription-based model of UTC offers customers holidays at ‘trade prices’, enhancing value through significant discounts.The company’s focus lies in delivering efficient employee benefit solutions that combine exclusive travel savings with lifestyle perks.UTC’s advisory board creation signifies a new phase in its development, as noted by CEO Brett Norton.UTC Travel Club has strategically appointed seasoned professionals Steve Allen, Jo…

Travellers are increasingly drawn to unexplored areas of Greece, fuelling tourism growth.Research shows Greece’s tourism is diversifying with an emphasis on sustainability.Active tourism has emerged as the primary reason for visiting Greece, surpassing sunbathing and cultural tourism.Popularity of less-travelled islands like Lesbos, Chios, and Samos is significantly increasing.The tourism sector remains vital to Greece, contributing substantially to its economy.The allure of Greece’s lesser-known destinations is prompting a significant shift in tourist patterns, as reported in the Emerging Destinations in Greece 2024 study. Travellers are increasingly seeking out places that offer less crowded environments, pleasant weather, and better value for money.A…

APT & Travelmarvel have launched an exciting 2025 ‘Early Bird’ cruise campaign, presenting customers with enticing offers.The latest campaign features substantial savings and complimentary cabin upgrades on select itineraries for bookings made between September 3 and October 31.Generous Incentives for Travel AgentsIn an effort to boost early bookings, APT & Travelmarvel are rolling out a ‘Book 2025 & Earn Big’ sales incentive aimed at UK and Irish travel agents. For each new individual booking made between September 4 and September 30, agents will receive a £25 Love2Shop voucher (€25 for Irish agents).Additionally, agents who secure five or more bookings can…

Jet2.com is actively reinforcing its reputation as a leader in sustainable aviation by demonstrating its environmental initiatives to prominent figures in the regulatory sector.The airline’s Manchester base served as the venue to exhibit its comprehensive strategy aimed at reducing its carbon footprint, aligning with broader industry goals for sustainability.Jet2.com, one of the UK’s leading airlines, has taken notable steps towards sustainability, showcasing its efforts to high-ranking officials from the UK’s Civil Aviation Authority. The airline has implemented an array of eco-friendly measures including the introduction of all-electric crew buses and the adoption of electric ground handling equipment as part of…

In a strategic move, Celestyal has unveiled its highly anticipated Heavenly Autumn Sailings campaign, offering travellers remarkable savings. The promotion includes discounts of up to 50% on programmes in 2025, 2026, and early 2027, presenting an attractive opportunity for cruise enthusiasts.This initiative extends its value even further by providing up to 60% off for third and fourth guests sharing a cabin. Available until the end of October 2024, the campaign encompasses over 120 itineraries across the Greek Isles, Adriatic, and Arabian Gulf.Significant Savings Across ProgrammesCelestyal’s Autumn promotion represents an ambitious effort to attract new bookings with its substantial savings. Travellers…

The latest initiative from If Only presents travel agents with an exciting opportunity to win luxurious stays through its innovative campaign.Running for two months, this initiative, called ‘The Luxe Collection’, spans September and October, offering a broad range of enticing deals and marketing tools for agents.If Only’s new B2B initiative, The Luxe Collection, offers travel agents an exciting opportunity to win luxury stays. Running throughout September and October, this campaign includes special offers and marketing materials aimed at enhancing sales performance.These partnerships enable agents to access unique deals that cater to an affluent clientele, enhancing their ability to offer bespoke,…