Author: Shawon Hannan

Tui has taken a significant step forward by releasing its winter 2025 programme early, with holidays available until Easter 2026. This initiative is expected to offer customers greater flexibility and convenience in planning their trips.The expanded booking window encompasses various exclusive destinations and new flight options, highlighting Tui’s commitment to improving customer experience.Extended Booking Window for 2025Tui has announced the early release of its winter 2025 programme, extending availability until Easter 2026. The expanded booking window is designed to provide customers with more flexibility in planning their holidays and managing their budgets. This extension is part of Tui’s strategy to…

Virgin Voyages has officially announced a series of agent ship visits for their third ship, Resilient Lady, in Portsmouth.These tours are scheduled to occur between August 23 and September 29, offering agents a first-hand experience of the vessel.The agent visits to the Resilient Lady will be conducted during five-hour tours, which are specifically arranged by Virgin Voyages. The tours promise to be comprehensive, providing a thorough understanding of Virgin Voyages’ unique approach to cruising. Each tour will accommodate between 30 and 50 agents, hosted by the line’s UK sales team.The dates for these tours include August 27, August 29, September…

Plymouth has experienced a significant uplift in its cruise industry, generating an additional £1.5 million for the city within a year.This achievement follows a remarkable increase in cruise bookings, doubling from the previous year, and highlights the economic vitality this sector brings to the locale.Expansion of Cruise Business in PlymouthPlymouth has witnessed a remarkable surge in its cruise business, adding an extra £1.5 million to the city’s coffers this year. The number of cruise bookings doubled when compared to 2022, showcasing the city’s growing reputation as a cruise destination. This growth is a vital boost, significantly benefiting the local economy…

Travel Counsellors for Business has taken a pivotal step by appointing Wayne Durkin as the head of business development.With over 25 years of experience in the travel sector, Durkin’s appointment signals a strategic move to enhance business growth and client acquisition. His extensive background in business development, particularly in the SME market, positions him as a valuable asset to the company.Travel Counsellors for Business has announced the appointment of Wayne Durkin as the new head of business development. This strategic move brings Durkin’s extensive 25-year experience in the travel sector to the fore. Previously, he served as the director of…

The travel industry is experiencing a fluctuating job market with various challenges.Average salaries in the travel sector have seen a remarkable rise of nearly 13% this year, now averaging £37,747.Despite attractive salaries between £40,000 and £55,000, senior roles’ average pay has declined due to a lack of high-paying positions.Recruitment activity has decreased, with new job vacancies and candidates down significantly compared to last year.Despite the slowdown, travel companies remain optimistic about expanding recruitment based on new government clarity.The travel industry’s job market is currently navigating through a challenging phase marked by fluctuating recruitment and salary dynamics. Recent data reveals a…

Dolphin Dynamics has unveiled a cutting-edge tool to simplify Jet2holidays bookings for independent travel agents. Developed in collaboration with several independent agencies, this new solution is set to enhance efficiency and accuracy.The new technology aims to streamline the booking process by incorporating tourism package details and automatically integrating vendor information into the Dolphin platform. This initiative is expected to significantly reduce manual errors and improve data quality for agents booking Jet2holidays packages.Dolphin Dynamics, a leader in travel technology solutions, has launched a new module aimed at simplifying the booking process for Jet2holidays. This tool, crafted in partnership with respected agencies…

Travel insurance complaints have surged, reaching one of the highest levels in recent years, akin to those during the Covid-19 pandemic.The Financial Ombudsman Service reported 4,466 complaints in the last year, a significant increase from pre-pandemic levels.Many complaints arise from dissatisfaction with insurers’ handling, especially regarding undisclosed medical conditions and emergency assistance.Policyholders express frustration over flight delays, baggage issues, and inadequate explanations of terms by insurers.Calls are made for insurance firms to offer clearer communication and fair treatment to policyholders.Travel insurance complaints have reached a significant peak, rivalling those observed during the Covid-19 pandemic. The Financial Ombudsman Service has revealed…

HX has appointed a seasoned expeditioner, Alex McNeil, to the newly established position of Chief Expeditions Officer. This move aims to enhance the travel experience for adventurers.With a wealth of experience from leading global expeditions, McNeil is set to guide HX towards sustainable and innovative travel solutions.Alex McNeil, renowned for his extensive experience, takes on the role of Chief Expeditions Officer at HX. He boasts a record of over 15 years in expedition leadership, including 14 notable journeys to the Geographic North Pole.McNeil joined HX 18 months ago, bringing expertise as the former director of expedition experience at Quark Expeditions.…

Chris North has recently taken on a new role as a non-executive director at the AI travel start-up, Go There Travel. The company has been founded by Ian Champness, who is previously associated with the FSS Travel & Leisure Systems. This appointment marks a significant shift in North’s career, following his long tenure at Vertical Systems.Chris North’s New VentureHaving spent 25 years at Vertical Systems, Chris North steps into the role of non-executive director at Go There Travel. This start-up aims to revolutionise travel search with artificial intelligence, offering fresh solutions for travel agents. North’s experience and leadership are expected…

Royal Caribbean International has unveiled its latest maritime marvel, Utopia of the Seas.The ship’s naming ceremony was a star-studded affair, setting the stage for its inaugural voyage.A Utopian Marvel on the High SeasRoyal Caribbean’s latest addition, the Utopia of the Seas, marks a significant milestone in maritime innovation. Celebrated with much pomp and pageantry, the naming ceremony was an elegant affair attracting many industry elites. The ship is an architectural marvel, described by Royal Caribbean Group president Jason Liberty as a “utopian playground on the ocean.”Utopia of the Seas is the sixth member of Royal Caribbean’s esteemed Oasis Class fleet.…