Author: Shawon Hannan

H10 Hotels has unveiled a comprehensive trade portal designed for travel agents. The portal aims to streamline booking processes and enhance agent support.Through strategic features and language accessibility, H10 reaffirms its dedication to empowering agents globally.H10 Hotels’ Commitment to Travel AgentsH10 Hotels, a Spanish hotel group, has launched a dedicated trade portal, H10 Pro, aimed at enhancing its services to travel agents worldwide. This initiative underscores H10’s commitment to fostering strong partnerships with travel agencies. The portal offers exclusive advantages such as competitive rates, commission opportunities, and immediate booking confirmations.The platform is designed with user-friendly interfaces in six different languages,…

Norwegian coastal cruise company Hurtigruten will officially join Tipto on September 1, marking the first new supplier addition for the organisation in Year 26.This strategic move aims to enhance Hurtigruten’s travel trade activities and extend its reach within the UK market, assisting in forging new connections and strengthening existing partnerships within the travel industry.Strengthening Travel Trade PartnershipsBy joining Tipto, Hurtigruten is set to significantly boost its presence in the travel trade. James Howlett, UK head of sales for Hurtigruten, expressed enthusiasm, stating, ‘We are absolutely thrilled to be joining Tipto for Year 26.’ Howlett emphasised the pivotal role of the…

European airports have reported a full recovery from the pandemic, outpacing pre-Covid passenger volumes by the first half of 2024. Latest data highlights a promising rebound for the sector.Passenger Growth Outpaces Pre-Pandemic FiguresThe latest data reveals that European airports have finally surpassed pre-pandemic passenger volumes with a 0.4% increase over the first half of 2019. Passenger numbers rose by 9% year-on-year, demonstrating the sector’s resilience and recovery post-Covid. International traffic, in particular, has been a key driver, growing at twice the rate of domestic traffic. This marks a significant recovery milestone for the industry.Challenges Persist Despite Encouraging GrowthEuropean airports are…

Peter Deer has resigned as chief financial officer of Fred Olsen Cruise Lines, marking the end of a 20-year career with the company.During his tenure, Deer played a key role in navigating the company through challenging times and spearheading significant projects.The Departure of a Long-standing ExecutiveFred Olsen Cruise Lines recently confirmed a significant change in its executive team. Peter Deer, who had been with the company since 2004, has stepped down from his role as chief financial officer. Deer’s tenure was marked by his leadership during critical periods, notably steering the company through the challenging times of the Covid-19 pandemic,…

Scenic Luxury Cruises and Tours and Emerald Cruises have embarked on a significant reorganisation of their UK trade team. This move is marked by the promotion of Jonathon Davies to head of sales, highlighting the company’s strategic direction towards enhancing market presence and sales efficiency.Davies’ elevation is part of Scenic’s broader strategy to strengthen its sales operations and support for travel agents. By appointing him, Scenic aims to leverage his expertise and leadership to drive growth and improve relationships with agent partners.Strategic Reorganisation of Scenic’s Sales TeamScenic Luxury Cruises and Tours and Emerald Cruises recently announced a strategic reshuffle of…

Several major online travel agencies have formed a coalition to advocate for the travel industry’s interests.Known as Online Travel UK, this group aims to work with governmental bodies to promote progressive, consumer-centric travel policies.OTA Coalition and ObjectivesIn a concerted effort to advocate for the travel industry’s interests, several major online travel agencies (OTAs) have united to form the Online Travel UK. This coalition is dedicated to promoting the considerable benefits the sector brings to both consumers and the broader economy. Its core objective is to engage with governmental bodies to create a progressive, consumer-focused travel policy framework.Among the prominent members…

Alicante Airport is facing disruption as a five-day strike by security staff begins, impacting operations.Jet2 has issued a warning to travellers, highlighting potential delays and advising adequate preparations.Strike Announcement and TimingJet2 has issued a warning regarding a five-day strike at Alicante Airport. This industrial action, which commenced today and is scheduled to continue until Sunday, involves security staff who play a crucial role in airport operations. The specific time slots expected to face the most congestion are 8.30am-9.30am and 6pm-7pm local time, both critical periods for flight departures and arrivals.The strike is anticipated to lead to significant delays and congestion…

Dubai has witnessed an exceptional rise in international visitors, marking a 9% increase in just the first half of the year.This impressive growth, reaching 9.31 million visitors, signifies the robust momentum of the city’s tourism sector.Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) has successfully implemented targeted campaigns across 80 markets, collaborating with over 3,000 global partners. These strategic moves have highlighted Dubai’s unique offerings and its dynamic appeal. Such coordinated efforts are pivotal in maintaining Dubai’s standing as a leading travel destination.Kazim emphasizes the significance of strong partnerships between the public and private sectors. Such alliances are crucial for driving…

Rex Airlines, Australia’s third-largest airline, has announced its entry into administration, grounding its domestic fleet. Passengers are facing disruptions.In light of the situation, Australia’s aviation competitors are stepping up to provide alternative travel solutions and mitigate passenger inconvenience.Rex Airlines Enters AdministrationAustralia’s third-largest airline, Rex Airlines, has entered administration, resulting in significant operational changes. All domestic flights have been suspended, with the airline’s fleet of Boeing 737 aircraft grounded. Despite these cancellations, regional flights operated by Saab 340 turboprops remain unaffected as administrators at Ernst & Young oversee operations. This move follows a challenging period for Rex, exacerbated by the pandemic…

In a move addressing both stability and growth, Seabourn has confirmed that the merging of its sales forces with Holland America Line in North America and Australia will not impact its UK trade operations. This announcement alleviates potential concerns regarding market support and strategic focus in the region.The confirmation by Seabourn underscores its commitment to providing continuous and stable service to its partners across the UK. With changes primarily affecting North America and Australia, Seabourn reassures that its UK operations remain consistent, with no anticipated disruptions.Seabourn has assured its UK partners that the recent merging of its sales forces with…