Author: News Team

Riviera Travel has opened bookings for its 2026 long-haul tours, retaining the attractive 2025 prices. This strategic move offers a range of 50 curated tours from January to December.These tours span diverse destinations like Australia, Canada, and China, ensuring a memorable travel experience. With options ranging from six to 21 days, travellers can explore iconic sites and enjoy added experiences, including dedicated solo traveller options with smaller group sizes.A Diverse Range of DestinationsRiviera Travel’s 2026 tour programme boasts an impressive selection of destinations, each chosen to provide travellers with unparalleled experiences. From the vast landscapes of Australia to the vibrant…

Sri Lanka has made a significant move by lifting its visa requirements for visitors from 38 countries, effective immediately. This decision is expected to boost tourism, offering a seamless travel experience.Sam Clark, co-founder of the Experience Travel Group, expressed enthusiasm about this change. The removal of visa requirements simplifies travel for British tourists, allowing them to explore Sri Lanka without the need for additional paperwork.The immediate effect of Sri Lanka’s decision to remove visa requirements is a boon for UK travellers. Previously, the necessity for an ETA and visa counter queues added burdens to the travel process. Now, British travellers…

Ambassador Cruise Line has recently joined the Cruise Lines International Association (Clia), marking a significant step in its industry presence. Through Clia membership, Ambassador aims to enhance its brand awareness and engage more actively with trade partners.The Essex-based cruise operator is now part of the global Clia community, gaining access to a range of resources and events that will support its growth ambitions.Expansion of Industry ReachAmbassador Cruise Line’s membership with Clia provides a strategic advantage to broaden its industry reach. By joining Clia, Ambassador gains full access to a global network of cruise professionals, vital for sharing industry insights and…

Cathay Pacific has halted flights across Asia due to engine complications in its A350 aircraft. This precautionary action follows a recent engine failure that necessitated immediate and extensive assessments.With passenger safety at the forefront, the airline is diligently working to inspect and, if needed, rectify any issues with the engines manufactured by Rolls-Royce. This follows a rigorous safety protocol demanded by aviation standards.Cathay Pacific’s Operational TurmoilCathay Pacific has been compelled to ground several of its flights across Asia amid technical scrutiny of its Airbus A350 fleet. This decision follows an engine component malfunction on a flight from Hong Kong to…

Ambassador Cruise Line has taken a strategic step by joining the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), aiming to boost its brand presence in the UK market. This collaboration opens doors to numerous opportunities within the cruise industry.Joining the world’s largest cruise industry association, Ambassador Cruise Line will enhance its networking and learning opportunities, marking a significant move in fortifying its brand within the market.Ambassador Cruise Line, based in Essex, has officially joined the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), strengthening its position within the cruise industry. This move is expected to enhance networking capabilities and provide access to a variety of…

Stephen Mason has been a formidable presence in travel law for over 50 years, marking his legacy through transformative legal contributions.Mason’s career began at a time when the travel industry lacked legal regulations, and his journey has shaped much of how travel law is perceived today.Early Days in the Legal LandscapeStephen Mason’s journey into the realm of legal expertise began in April 1974, a time when the travel industry was largely uncharted by legal norms. The concept of “travel law” was virtually non-existent. Mason started his legal career focusing on general practice and commercial disputes at a firm in Leeds,…

In a remarkable milestone, Ryanair achieved record passenger numbers last month, carrying 20.5 million passengers. This surge, however, came at a cost with fares being 5% lower than in 2023.Ryanair’s strategic decision to lower fares was driven by consumer demand pressures. This strategy resulted in an 8% increase in passenger numbers compared to August 2023, despite the financial implications for shareholders.Record-Breaking August for RyanairRyanair’s August performance was nothing short of extraordinary. By carrying a record 20.5 million passengers, the airline saw an 8% increase from the previous year. This achievement highlights Ryanair’s successful efforts to boost travel demand amid consumer…

The New Zealand government’s recent decision to raise the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) alongside visa fees has garnered significant attention from industry experts.With fees set to rise markedly, this change poses a potential setback in attracting international visitors, potentially delaying the recovery of New Zealand’s tourism sector.The International Air Transport Association (Iata) has criticised the decision by the New Zealand government to increase the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) from NZ$35 (£16.50) to NZ$100 (£47) starting in October. This move, coupled with steep hikes in visa fees, has been described as a “double whammy” for…

Gold Medal has unveiled a captivating new campaign offering an exciting chance to win a trip to New York. The initiative, known as ‘Your Holiday, Your Way’, aims to boost bookings while showcasing popular destinations.This campaign includes diverse travel options, from beach holidays to city breaks, catering to various travel preferences. It promises to provide agents with effective tools to enhance their sales capabilities.The ‘Your Holiday, Your Way’ campaign by Gold Medal is a strategic effort launched to invigorate travel bookings during the bustling month of September. Focusing on a wide array of travel types, this initiative is encapsulated in…

Globus has introduced an innovative agent incentive programme in September, aiming to engage with travel agents across the UK through a unique ‘golden ticket’ initiative.This programme not only includes in-store visits but extends online, providing opportunities for agents to win exciting prizes, demonstrating Globus’s commitment to its partners.Expansive Reach Across the UKThe Globus trade team is set to embark on an extensive tour, visiting over 60 agencies across the UK. These visits are part of an effort to personally distribute ‘golden tickets’ to agency staff. The programme reflects Globus’s strategic initiative to foster stronger relationships within the travel agency community.Golden…