Author: News Team
In a significant move within the travel industry, eSky Group, a leading travel technology firm in Central and Eastern Europe, has acquired Thomas Cook from Fosun Tourism Group. The purchase, excluding Thomas Cook’s operations in China, marks a pivotal expansion strategy for eSky into Western Europe, promising to bolster its market position and offerings.The acquisition is set to integrate eSky’s extensive flight inventory with Thomas Cook’s renowned brand, leveraging technological advancements to enhance travel experiences. This transaction not only enriches eSky’s portfolio but also breathes new life into Thomas Cook, a brand with an illustrious heritage. The synergy between these…
Heightened fines for unauthorised school absences have failed to prevent families from choosing term-time holidays.The financial penalties do not outweigh the cost savings parents experience, causing fines to be ineffective as a deterrent.The recent increase in fines for taking children out of school without permission, which rose from £60 to £80 per child, is not having the desired deterrent effect. Despite nearly 400,000 penalty notices being issued in the past academic year, parents continue to opt for cheaper term-time holidays. This indicates that the financial penalty is insufficient to change parental behaviour.Some parents openly admit the fines do not discourage…
CLIA has officially announced the details for its upcoming 2025 RiverView Conference, set to occur in Budapest from 8 to 10 March. This eagerly anticipated event will feature a range of activities and sessions designed to enhance the expertise of river cruise industry professionals.The RiverView Conference is renowned for its comprehensive agenda, including ship visits and networking opportunities, solidifying its status as a significant event in the cruise calendar. This year’s event promises to deliver a wealth of knowledge and connections for all attendees.Event OverviewThe 2025 RiverView Conference hosted by CLIA is slated to take place in the enchanting city…
The COVID-19 pandemic forced many companies to re-evaluate their strategies, and Ryanair was no exception. Faced with unprecedented refund demands, the airline reshaped its relationships with travel agents and online platforms to ensure better cooperation and efficiency.Ryanair’s approach to refunds and partnerships during COVID-19 resulted in closer ties with the travel trade. This transformation has led to new agreements with multiple online travel agencies (OTAs), enabling broader access to Ryanair’s flight offerings. The carrier’s strategic shift marks a significant development in its business model.Faced with unprecedented refund demands during the pandemic, Ryanair recognised the urgent need to transform its relationships…
The hosting of the Olympics raises questions about its true benefits for tourism and city economies.Economist Andrew Zimbalist questions the economic benefits cities gain from hosting the Olympics.Political motives and construction industry interests often drive cities to host these global events.Despite the hype, the long-term advantages of hosting the Olympics remain debatable.Zimbalist highlights the significant financial, social, and environmental costs involved.The subject of whether the Olympics serve as a boon or a burden for host cities is contentious. Andrew Zimbalist, an esteemed economist, questions the rationale behind cities’ fervent pursuit to host such events. He suggests that political motives, aiming…
Oceania Cruises has set a new milestone in travel marketing with the launch of a revolutionary tool designed to bolster the efforts of its travel agents.By leveraging cutting-edge technology, it promises to streamline marketing processes, enabling agents to engage with clients more effectively and efficiently.Oceania Cruises has unveiled its latest innovation aimed at enhancing the efficiency of travel agents through a groundbreaking marketing tool. The initiative, powered by Approach Guides technology, is set to transform how travel professionals market and sell cruise experiences. It encompasses features like co-branded marketing pages and real-time pricing, designed to streamline operations and amplify success.With…
Jet2 has reported continued resilience in package holiday pricing, despite evolving market conditions. The company has observed strong momentum in late bookings, signalling robust demand.As summer 2024 progresses, Jet2 notes an increase in seat capacity, up by 12.4% compared to 2023. This growth has facilitated a modest rise in package holiday prices, reflecting a healthy market trend.Summer 2024 Sales PerformanceThe summer of 2024 has marked a period of strong demand for Jet2, with a notable 12.4% increase in seat capacity. The airline’s data suggests that July and August experienced significant late booking momentum, which has positively impacted overall performance. The…
Cruise Plus, a leader in bespoke travel solutions, is introducing an exciting new initiative aimed at travel agents. This campaign seeks to boost engagement and inspire unique travel experiences.Introduction to the CampaignCruise Plus, a division of the dnata Travel Group UK, has unveiled an enticing campaign for travel agents, spotlighting the allure of last-minute winter sun holidays and upcoming departures spanning 2025 and 2026. This campaign, named ‘Set Sail with Cruise Plus’, offers a unique opportunity for agents to secure a substantial holiday fund.Designed to engage agents, this initiative not only underscores the diverse range of travel options available but…
The Illinois Department of Commerce’s Office of Tourism has strategically partnered with Premier League’s Crystal Palace FC as their official destination partner. This collaboration is set to enhance Illinois’ visibility in the UK market.Crystal Palace’s visit to Chicago in 2023 established vital ties, and their return this summer solidified a connection that this partnership aims to deepen, promoting Illinois to an international audience.The partnership with Crystal Palace is anticipated to significantly boost Illinois’ global tourism profile. By featuring ‘Enjoy Illinois’ branding on prominent platforms such as LED boards, interview backdrops, and in-stadium TVs at Selhurst Park, Illinois extends its reach…
Scenic Group has unveiled two enticing incentives aligned with their river cruise offerings.Luxury river ship Scenic Gem features in a new documentary series called The Antique Brothers.Agents can win a Scenic backpack by answering questions on the Totally Trade Facebook page.A cruise giveaway is open to agents booking Scenic France river cruises in September.A webinar will offer insights into Scenic’s Seine and Northern France offerings.Scenic Group, known for its captivating river cruise experiences, has launched two noteworthy incentives aimed at agents promoting its voyage offerings. This initiative ties in with the river cruise company’s featured appearance in a new documentary…