Author: Shawon Hannan

In May 2025, Malta will once again be in the spotlight as it hosts the Advantage Travel Partnership’s annual industry conference.This event, organised with the collaboration of Visit Malta, is set to bring together travel industry leaders to discuss emerging trends and explore Malta’s renowned historical and cultural sites.Destination of Exceptional AppealThe Advantage Travel Partnership has confirmed Malta as the host of its annual industry conference in May 2025, in collaboration with Visit Malta. Malta was chosen due to its unique blend of historical and cultural attractions, alongside its commitment to sustainability and innovation. Participants can anticipate a detailed exploration…

Cruise industry giants, Tauck and Oceania Cruises, are elevating their trade support initiatives through an innovative partnership with Approach Guides, a technology platform aimed at enhancing travel agents’ marketing capabilities.This strategic collaboration is structured to streamline operations for travel advisors, providing them with the ability to create tailored multimedia content designed to attract and engage customers effectively across multiple channels.Technological Advancements in Cruise TradeThe adoption of the Approach Guides platform by Tauck and Oceania Cruises marks a significant leap forward in the integration of technology within the cruising sector. By leveraging this advanced platform, travel agents can now efficiently generate…

Barcelona’s intended rise in tourist tax for cruise visitors staying less than 12 hours has stirred discord within the cruise sector. The proposed hike, aimed at addressing mass tourism impacts, has met with concern from industry players, including the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA).Announced by the city’s mayor, the move signifies a shift in tourism management strategy, potentially affecting cruise passenger influx. Industry stakeholders express mixed reactions, debating its implications on tourism economics and local communities.Rationale Behind the Tax IncreaseBarcelona’s mayor has unveiled plans to elevate the tourist tax on short-term cruise visitors. This decision aims to mitigate the pressures…

The Silver Travel Awards has expanded its horizon with the introduction of two new categories. These additions are aimed at recognising excellence in the over-50s and solo travel markets.Celebrating Over-50s Holiday ExcellenceThe Silver Travel Awards has introduced a new category titled ‘Overall Over-50s Holiday Provider’. This category allows the public to nominate outstanding holiday providers catering to the over-50s demographic. This category’s unique feature is its open format, which has no shortlist, providing a platform for a wide range of providers to be acknowledged for their exceptional service.Spotlight on Solo TravellersIn a bid to recognize the growing trends in solo…

The Supreme Court has delivered a pivotal verdict enhancing the compensation rights of air passengers facing delays due to crew illness.This landmark decision resolves ambiguities surrounding what constitutes ‘extraordinary circumstances’, aligning with consumer interests while setting a new benchmark for airline accountability.Supreme Court Ruling and BackgroundThe recent ruling by the Supreme Court marks a significant clarification in passenger rights in the aviation industry. Passengers can now claim compensation for flights delayed by crew sickness. This follows the noteworthy case of Lipton vs BA Cityflyer, where the airline argued that such sickness was an ‘extraordinary circumstance’. This decision is hailed by…

Airline travellers are increasingly finding themselves in a maze of choices, leading to frustration and uncertainty.Research reveals that a significant number of consumers feel overwhelmed by the plethora of airline offers, prompting a reliance on travel agencies.A recent study highlights that 58% of travellers feel overwhelmed by the multitude of choices offered by airlines. The complexity of understanding various offers has grown, making it difficult for consumers to make informed decisions.With 63% of respondents expressing concern over customer service, particularly in relation to flight cancellations, it is clear that the industry must address these issues to better serve their clientele.The…

Following a significant global IT meltdown, disruptions to Tui flight schedules are expected to persist until Thursday.The schedule changes, affecting numerous destinations, have forced travellers to make alternative arrangements, while Tui works to restore normal operations.Extended Flight DisruptionsDue to a severe global IT meltdown, Tui has announced that flight disruptions will continue throughout the week, with normal operations not expected to resume until Thursday. This prolonged disruption has impacted over two dozen return flights, leaving many travellers stranded or uncertain about their travel plans.Many passengers scheduled to return over the weekend have been informed that their flights will be delayed,…

In Palma, the discontent over mass tourism reached a crescendo as over 20,000 demonstrators rallied for change.The protestors demanded a radical shift in Mallorca’s tourism model, which they claim is detrimental to the island’s well-being.Slogans like “Let’s change course and set limits on tourism” highlighted the growing opposition to uncontrolled tourism expansion.Protestors highlighted the strain on public services and housing due to an influx of millions of tourists each year.Similar unrest is brewing in Barcelona, prompting discussions on increasing tourism taxes as a control measure.In Palma, the capital of Mallorca, a substantial protest took place, attracting more than 20,000 participants…

As the UK faces a period of uncharacteristically poor weather, many travellers are turning their attention to spontaneous travel opportunities. Recent data reveals a significant fraction of the population considering last-minute holidays to escape to sunnier climes.The allure of warmer European destinations is enticing many, as domestic weather forecasts show little promise of improvement. With flexibility, travellers have options to secure favourable deals on getaways, enhancing their chances for a quick escape from the dreary weather.Rise in Last-Minute Holiday BookingsIn response to the UK’s unrelenting poor weather, last-minute holiday bookings are seeing a marked increase. According to Abta, 27% of…

The transport sector is taking significant steps towards sustainability, with the government pledging support for the aviation industry’s sustainable growth. Transport Secretary Louise Haigh outlined new measures during the Farnborough International Airshow, emphasizing the importance of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) in achieving these goals.Haigh announced a mandate requiring 10% of aviation fuel to be sustainable by 2030, with appropriate incentives to ensure compliance. However, industry leaders are calling for further government action to support this initiative.Government Commitments to Sustainable AviationThe transport secretary, Louise Haigh, addressed aviation leaders at the Farnborough International Airshow, affirming the government’s commitment to supporting sustainable aviation…