Author: News Team
The UK government has issued an urgent advisory for British citizens to leave Lebanon immediately. As tensions in the Middle East escalate, officials highlight the potential for a swift decline in the country’s stability.Given the present climate of heightened tension throughout the Middle East, the UK government is unequivocally advising all British citizens residing or travelling in Lebanon to evacuate at the earliest available opportunity. This stern advisory comes amidst escalating geopolitical unrest in the region.In response to the volatile circumstances in Lebanon, the UK has increased its consular operations. Additional Border Force and military personnel have been deployed to…
A branch of Hays Travel in Sunderland was targeted during anti-immigration riots over the weekend, suffering significant window damage.Thankfully, no injuries were reported, and the location will resume operations as usual. The incident occurred amid a series of violent demonstrations across various UK cities.Simultaneous disturbances occurred in other parts of the UK, notably outside a Holiday Inn Express in Rotherham. This hotel, which accommodates asylum seekers, witnessed missile attacks on police and an arson attempt.The BBC reported that individuals wearing balaclavas forced entry into the hotel, prompting heightened security measures across similar facilities nationwide.The weekend’s events underscore the volatility surrounding…
New Level 3 travel and tourism qualifications will launch in 2026, converging education with industry needs. These qualifications will pave the way for modern education in a growing field.The programme, equivalent to three A-levels, promises a blend of academic knowledge and practical skills tailored to the industry’s requirements. The initiative aims to provide students with diverse career pathways within the dynamic travel and tourism sector.Introduction to the New QualificationsThe upcoming introduction of Level 3 travel and tourism qualifications in September 2026 marks a significant milestone for students aged 16-19. Developed by NCFE with input from the Tourism Industry Skills Working…
After a three-year hiatus, Avalon Waterways is set to reinstate its agent familiarisation (fam) trip programme from October. This initiative offers travel agents a tangible experience of Avalon’s exclusive offerings, aimed at enhancing product knowledge and sales effectiveness.Selected agents will embark on three or four-night journeys along the Danube, hosted by Avalon’s UK sales team. This move underscores Avalon’s commitment to strengthening agent relations and showcasing its standout cruise amenities, like the panoramic open-air balconies of the Avalon Panorama Suites.Return of Agent Familiarisation TripsAvalon Waterways is excited to announce the resumption of its agent fam trip programme, scheduled to commence…
Pandaw, an Asian river cruise specialist, has unveiled a strategic initiative aimed at expanding its presence in the UK market. The company, in collaboration with Fred Holidays, introduces a new brochure that showcases increased offerings in Southeast Asia and India.This new move is fortified by a comprehensive agent’s guide and incentives designed to bolster sales of Pandaw’s cruise packages. With an emphasis on accessibility and enhanced customer experience, Pandaw aims to strengthen its ties with UK travel agents and customers.Brochure Launch and IncentivesIn a move to bolster its market presence in the UK, Pandaw has released its first UK-specific brochure…
Bookings are now open for Disney Cruise Line’s latest ship, the Disney Destiny. This marks a significant milestone for the company as it expands its fleet.Scheduled to embark on its maiden voyage from Port Everglades in November 2025, the Disney Destiny promises new experiences and destinations for travellers, enhancing Disney’s ever-growing cruise portfolio.The new Disney Destiny will set sail from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, offering four- and five-night voyages to The Bahamas and the western Caribbean. As the sister ship to Disney Wish and Disney Treasure, it is designed to provide a premium cruise experience. The ship will accommodate around 4,000…
SunExpress, the internationally recognised carrier, is set to increase its flight capacity from Leeds Bradford airport to Antalya in summer 2025. This announcement underscores the growing demand for Turkish destinations and strengthens the airline’s network within the UK.With the introduction of an additional weekly flight, SunExpress aims to accommodate the increasing interest of holidaymakers wishing to explore Turkey. This expansion is a testament to the airline’s commitment to enhancing travel options for passengers.SunExpress Expands Capacity from Leeds BradfordSunExpress has announced an enhancement to their operations from Leeds Bradford airport, introducing an additional frequency to the popular destination of Antalya for…
Carnival Cruise Line has unveiled plans for a new adult-only area on its private island in the Bahamas, set to open in July 2025. The Pearl Cove Beach Club at Celebration Key promises a relaxing escape with exclusive amenities.The Pearl Cove Beach Club features a private infinity pool, swim-up bar, and water loungers for an indulgent experience.Guests will have access to a private beach with beachside food and drink services, enhancing their day of relaxation.Celebration Key will include diverse attractions across its five themed ‘portals’, promising a unique experience for visitors.Bookings for the Pearl Cove Beach Club and adjacent amenities,…
APT is poised for a grand return to European waters in 2025, with its vessel Caledonian Sky leading the charge. This announcement marks a significant enhancement of APT’s cruising repertoire, offering new experiences for travellers.Exciting New ItinerariesThe anticipated return of the Caledonian Sky will introduce an innovative suite of itineraries spanning from April to October 2025. Travellers can expect to explore scenic regions from the Canary Islands to Istanbul, with fresh destinations such as Portugal, Turkey, and Greece enhancing APT’s lineup.Among the new offerings is the Greek Islands Explorer, an eight-day voyage commencing and concluding in Athens. This cruise promises…
The aviation industry has greeted the new government’s early actions with optimism. Key stakeholders have noted a shift towards sustainable practices, highlighting a promising start.The initial engagements indicate a well-informed approach, with commitments to sustainable aviation initiatives that resonate with long-term economic goals.Initial Government Engagement with the IndustrySenior industry leaders have responded positively to the government’s initial steps regarding aviation and travel. Transport secretary Louise Haigh, speaking at the Farnborough Airshow, articulated the government’s strategy, emphasising sustainable growth in aviation. She assured the sector of the administration’s commitment to supporting the sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) mandate, aligning with broader economic…