Author: Shawon Hannan
Tui Group has reported a significant increase in summer bookings, coupled with higher prices, showcasing the resilience of customer demand.Notably, Tui’s summer programme from the UK has seen a robust 90% sale completion, driven by strong overall demand across key destinations like Spain, Greece, and Turkey.Surge in Summer BookingsTui Group has observed a 6% rise in overall summer bookings, with the average prices experiencing a 3% increase. This upward trend underscores the solid customer interest in travel despite economic fluctuations. “This once again underlines resilient customer demand and the popularity of our product portfolio,” Tui stated.Financial PerformanceIn the last quarter,…
Luxury travel is witnessing an exceptional boom, with notable growth in premium sales.The renowned network presents insights into evolving travel trends and future bookings.Virtuoso has reported a remarkable increase of 211% in sales for the first half of 2024 compared to the same period in 2019. This surge signifies a robust recovery and growth trajectory post-pandemic.Executive vice-president David Kolner emphasised the alignment of their growth with global leisure sales, showcasing Virtuoso’s expanding relevance.Such trends are essential for sustaining both customer satisfaction and industry trust.Despite this trend, warm-weather spots still maintain a dominant 10 to 1 sales ratio, according to Misty…
Ryanair has encountered significant disruptions with 18% of its morning flights delayed, highlighting an ongoing issue with European air traffic control.The airline attributes the delays to staffing shortages and management inefficiencies, which continue to strain operations across Europe despite a reduction in summer disruptions.European Air Traffic Control StrugglesRyanair, Europe’s largest airline, recently expressed frustration over what it called ‘unacceptable’ air traffic control (ATC) delays. These delays affected nearly 20% of its early Tuesday morning flights. According to Ryanair, the core issue stems from staff shortages within European ATC services, which have not been able to meet demand despite a decrease…
Teesside Airport reports its first profit in over a decade, yet faces ongoing challenges. External factors such as supply chain disruptions are impacting growth.A strategic review is underway to address these issues and align future plans with market demands, ensuring long-term sustainability.Financial Performance and ChallengesTeesside Airport has achieved its first profit in over a decade, with earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortisation (EBITDA) totalling £308,555 on revenues of £14.5 million in the year ending March 2023. Despite this financial turnaround, the airport faces significant financial and operational challenges. These challenges are compounded by global supply chain issues and delays…
Responsible Travel has taken a decisive step by removing its presence from X, formerly known as Twitter, to align with its core values.The company, known for its strong ethical stance, has made headlines by prioritising platforms that support positivity and inclusion.Responsible Travel, a pioneer in ethical tourism, has made a significant decision by deleting its account on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter. This decision marks a strong stance against the increasing negativity on the platform. The company cited its commitment to free speech that does not condone hate speech, disinformation, or incitement to violence.Justin Francis, founder…
Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas is the subject of an upcoming Channel 4 documentary. This programme will offer a unique look into the ship’s first voyages, offering viewers unprecedented access.Introduction to Icon of the SeasThe Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas, heralded as the largest cruise ship globally, is set to be showcased in a new Channel 4 documentary. This feature promises a rare glimpse into the vessel’s inaugural voyages, taking viewers on a journey from Miami’s vibrant shores.With its towering 20 decks and 1,200-foot length, the Icon of the Seas offers an unparalleled cruising experience. The ship boasts…
SunExpress, in a strategic undertaking, has appointed James Harrison as the new sales manager for the UK and Ireland. His extensive expertise in the aviation sector positions him as a key player in the airline’s growth ambitions.As a joint venture of Lufthansa and Turkish Airlines, SunExpress is poised for expansion in crucial markets. With Harrison’s leadership, the airline is set to build on its well-established reputation for quality service and operational excellence, aiming to enhance its market presence in the UK and Ireland.James Harrison’s Strategic AppointmentJames Harrison has been appointed as the UK and Ireland sales manager for SunExpress, a…
Jet2.com and Jet2holidays have responded to increased demand by extending the summer 2024 season to Bodrum, Turkey.The extension includes new flight routes from four major UK airports, continuing operations until mid-November.Expansion DetailsJet2.com and Jet2holidays have extended their summer 2024 season, a move sparked by sustained demand from both customers and travel agents. The addition includes flights from four UK airports to Bodrum, continuing services until mid-November, as opposed to the previously planned early November end date.These extensions make Jet2 the exclusive operator offering flights to Bodrum from outside London beyond early November. Flights are scheduled from Birmingham, Leeds Bradford, Manchester,…
The rising popularity of astrotourism is reshaping travel opportunities in the cruise industry. With an increasing number of people eager to experience the wonders of the night sky, cruise lines like Virgin Voyages are responding dynamically by offering extended itineraries.Astrotourism: A Growing TrendAstrotourism, a trend highlighted by National Geographic, focuses on travel primarily for stargazing. With the anticipation of more celestial events in the coming years, interest in astrotourism is expanding rapidly. Virgin Voyages is capitalising on this trend by introducing its Eclipse Voyages, featuring longer trips promising exceptional astronomical views.The Eclipse Voyages are part of Virgin Voyages’ innovative Marvelous…
Michel Roux, a chef with two Michelin stars, will once again partner with Cunard for a series of exclusive Le Gavroche at Sea residencies in 2025.Roux will oversee four residencies on the Queen Anne and Queen Mary 2, offering guests a unique dining experience at sea.Michel Roux’s Prestigious Partnership with CunardRenowned for his culinary excellence, Michel Roux, a chef who has earned two Michelin stars, is set to embark on another exclusive series of residencies with Cunard. The collaboration, known as Le Gavroche at Sea, will include four distinct residencies during 2025 onboard the Queen Anne and Queen Mary 2.…