Author: News Team
Virgin Voyages is making waves in the cruise industry with the announcement of its upcoming Alaskan itineraries. The company’s latest ship, Brilliant Lady, is set to explore the rugged beauty of Alaska in 2026. With a series of uniquely designed routes, this launch promises an invigorating mix of adventure and luxury, appealing to both seasoned cruisers and newcomers. Starting from Seattle and Vancouver, these trips will span between seven to twelve nights, each loaded with breathtaking scenery and memorable experiences. These voyages aim to satisfy the wanderlust of Virgin’s loyal clientele, who are always in pursuit of new adventuring opportunities.…
Heavy flooding in Spain has resulted in significant casualties and damage.Particularly affected are the regions of Valencia and Castilla La Mancha.The Foreign Office updates travel advisories, urging caution among travellers.Significant infrastructural damage has occurred, with power outages affecting 155,000 households.The deadliest flooding since 1996, highlighting climate change concerns.The recent flooding in Spain has taken a severe toll, with at least 62 casualties reported. This natural disaster primarily hit the Valencia region and Castilla La Mancha. In Chiva, near Valencia, the region experienced more than a year’s worth of rain in just eight hours, exacerbating the situation with unprecedented water accumulation.As…
British Airways has resumed its direct flights from Gatwick to Bangkok, marking the return of this popular route after an extended suspension of over four years. Travellers can now enjoy this direct connection to Thailand’s capital with enhanced service classes on offer. The decision comes as a response to the high demand for travel to Southeast Asia, especially during peak seasons.Starting this week, British Airways will operate three weekly flights with plans to increase frequency to five flights per week by early 2025. This welcomed change brings back a crucial link for leisure and business travellers alike, eager to explore…
Norse Atlantic Airways is pioneering affordable travel from London to South Africa with its newly launched Gatwick-Cape Town route. This strategic expansion caters to travellers seeking budget-friendly options for long-haul flights. Launching with an impressive inaugural flight, the airline aims to make Cape Town’s beauty accessible without sacrificing comfort.Operating up to three flights weekly using the modern Boeing 787 Dreamliner, Norse Atlantic is a game-changer in connecting the UK and South Africa. With fares starting as low as £219, the airline underscores its commitment to providing affordable and direct flights. This addition to their network signifies growing opportunities in international…
Virgin Voyages has unveiled plans for its newest vessel, the Brilliant Lady, to embark on its maiden Alaskan journeys. The cruise line will offer unique itineraries starting from major seaports in North America.Cruise enthusiasts can look forward to a variety of travel options with itineraries ranging from seven to twelve days. The voyages promise scenic routes and enriching experiences, making Alaska a sought-after destination in the coming years.Opening New HorizonsVirgin Voyages is expanding its offerings with its first-ever Alaskan sailings set to launch in 2026. The Brilliant Lady will guide passengers through picturesque landscapes, emphasising the cruise line’s commitment to…
Princess Cruises has modernised its agent training platform, OneSource.com, aiming to boost sales capabilities. Agents now have access to new tools and resources designed to improve efficiency.The revamped platform introduces a streamlined customer service hub and a broader array of training resources. This strategic update facilitates self-service and growth for agents, reflecting a shift towards more digital-first solutions in the cruise industry.Revamped Training PlatformPrincess Cruises has revitalised its agent training platform, OneSource.com, to better arm travel agents for successful sales outcomes. The platform now includes an impressive customer service hub, rich with FAQs and guides. This improvement aims to minimise…
Cruise travel has seen remarkable growth in recent months, with the number of UK and Irish passengers exceeding expectations. A new report from Clia highlights this surge, which has surpassed one million travellers in early 2024 alone. Industry insiders suggest this growth reflects a broader shift in holiday preferences.Increased adoption of cruising holidays indicates a dynamic change in the travel sector. Such trends suggest a growing appeal of cruise vacations among diverse demographic groups, driven by updated travel experiences and greater accessibility.Cruise Industry Growth in 2024In the first half of 2024, over one million travellers from the UK and Ireland…
The travel industry’s upcoming peak season is expected to be extraordinary, driven by innovative marketing strategies. Google’s Director of Travel discusses how platforms like YouTube and AI are reshaping how travel companies engage with their audiences, offering new possibilities.Incorporating AI in advertising not only targets the audience efficiently but also enhances the user experience. As consumer behaviour continues to evolve, understanding these digital trends becomes crucial for marketers aiming to stay ahead.The Evolution of YouTube in Travel MarketingThe remarkable reach of YouTube has transformed how travel marketers engage with audiences. Supported by the powerful integration of AI, YouTube enables advertisers…
The travel industry is falling behind other sectors in adopting AI, according to WTTC’s CEO.Julia Simpson views AI as more beneficial than threatening to jobs in the travel sector.Progress in AI integration is uneven, with some leaders advancing and others lagging.Simpson highlights AI’s role in enhancing operational efficiency in tourism.The travel and tourism industry could greatly benefit from effectively embracing AI.The travel sector, according to the World Travel and Tourism Council’s chief, Julia Simpson, is not keeping pace with other industries in the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI). Simpson has pointed out that while there are pockets within the industry…
Adapting to changing geopolitical climates, Holland America Line has amended its 2026 world cruise itinerary, bypassing the Red Sea.The voyage will now cover 51 ports across 23 countries, enhancing the Asian segment with a dozen new ports.Consultation with global security experts led to these itinerary changes, ensuring passenger safety on this epic journey.The full voyage will extend to 133 days, maintaining its conclusion in Fort Lauderdale on May 17, 2026.Passagers can anticipate enriched cultural experiences, particularly in Asia, with new stops in places like Halong Bay and Hong Kong.In a move prompted by political instability, Holland America Line has opted…