Author: News Team
Azamara Cruises is set to make a notable return to Alaska in the summer of 2026 after a seven-year hiatus, marking a significant development for the cruise industry.The cruise line’s re-entry into the Alaskan market has been prompted by extensive feedback from travel agents and customers, highlighting Alaska’s enduring appeal as a sought-after destination.Starting in May 2026, Azamara Pursuit will offer 10- to 13-day cruises featuring prolonged port stays of more than 10 hours, allowing travellers to fully engage with local cultures through indigenous community encounters and diverse wildlife excursions such as whale-watching, bear spotting, and glacier hiking.In particular, guests…
Dubai is set to host the inaugural overseas International Women in Travel & Tourism Forum (IWTTF) next month, marking a significant milestone for the event series.Scheduled for November 19, the Forum will be an invitation-only event, providing a platform for networking and learning in the travel industry.The Forum will highlight key themes including leadership, diversity, equity, and inclusion, reflecting the core values of Women in Travel CIC.Long-term partners such as Intrepid Travel and Google will continue their involvement, supporting the development and logistics of these events.With the launch of IWTTF in Dubai, the event aims to strengthen its international presence…
The Vertical Travel Group is set to merge its homeworking brands into a single legal entity, aiming to present a unified business image to suppliers. This strategic move is expected to clarify the scale of operations.Strategic Vision of Vertical Travel GroupThe Vertical Travel Group has announced a significant strategic initiative to consolidate its homeworking brands under one legal entity. This decision aims to provide a clearer and more transparent business scale to suppliers. According to Peter Healey, the group’s Chief Executive, integrating all company divisions into the unified Vertical Travel Group brand will simplify how suppliers view the business, although…
The travel industry is facing potential upheaval with proposed changes to national insurance contributions. These changes could significantly impact travel agencies’ operational costs.Alistair Rowland, Blue Bay Travel chief and Abta chair, warns that increased national insurance, coupled with hikes in the national living wage, could lead to job cuts in the travel sector.Current Financial PressuresAlistair Rowland has publicly voiced his concerns about the financial repercussions on travel agencies if national insurance contributions rise. This increase is anticipated to coincide with recent hikes in the national living wage, exacerbating financial strain on agencies. “Another significant rise in the national living wage…
The upcoming Budget has triggered significant merger and acquisition (M&A) activity in the travel industry, driven by tax concerns. Industry experts are witnessing an unprecedented volume of transactions, underscoring the sector’s recovery and appeal to investors. With private equity involvement increasing, the impact of potential tax hikes is a major concern. Industry stakeholders are racing to finalise deals before the fiscal deadline.The anticipation of the Chancellor’s Budget on October 30 has catalysed a surge in merger and acquisition (M&A) activity within the travel sector. This is fuelled by apprehensions that there might be an increase in taxes on these transactions.…
Tourism Malaysia is making strides in the UK travel market through a ‘mega fam’ trip designed to strengthen industry ties.The initiative offers UK trade partners firsthand experiences in Malaysia to enhance destination promotion.A recent working visit by Malaysia’s tourism minister has invigorated efforts with a major networking event.UK ranks as Malaysia’s largest European tourist market, showing significant growth this year.Further promotional efforts are planned to sustain Malaysia’s standing as a top destination for UK travellers.Tourism Malaysia is embarking on an ambitious venture to expand its influence within the UK travel trade by organising a ‘mega fam’ trip. This initiative aims…
The cruise industry is under scrutiny as new reports highlight significant emission concerns.Leading cruise lines have issued statements defending their environmental record amid increasing consumer pressure.Cruise Industry Faces Emissions ScrutinyThe cruise industry’s environmental impact has come under intense scrutiny following a detailed analysis by Which?, highlighting alarming pollution levels from major cruise lines. In 2023, Disney Cruise Line topped the list of worst polluters, with its vessel, Disney Dream, spewing nearly 1.5 tonnes of CO2 per nautical mile. Norwegian Cruise Line followed closely, with its coordination of 10 vessels exacerbating the ecological concerns.The findings by Which? align closely with the…
Jet2holidays is launching an industry-first podcast specifically tailored for travel agents, called Partners2Success: The Podcast!.Set to premiere on October 24th, the podcast aims to provide insightful content for agents looking to enhance their industry knowledge and skills.Jet2holidays is set to embark on an innovative venture, launching its first ever podcast series tailored specifically for travel agents. Slated to debut on October 24th, the series, titled “Partners2Success: The Podcast!”, will be a must-listen for agents aiming to glean industry insights. The programme, hosted by Lloyd Cross, the general trade sales manager, promises a blend of industry expertise and practical advice accessible…
The Advantage Travel Partnership recently reported a successful conclusion to its annual Advantage Managed Services (AMS) conference in Fuerteventura. With over 50 delegates attending, the event marked the 15th anniversary of the AMS model and delivered key business and technology sessions.Hosted at the Tui Magic Life resort, the conference was supported by Classic Collection, Fred Olsen, and Vertical Systems. It drew industry professionals to discuss growth and innovation, reflecting on the AMS model’s continued success.Engaging Business SessionsThe AMS conference provided a platform for intensive business sessions led by the leadership team. These sessions were meticulously designed to focus on the…
At a recent industry conference, the spotlight was on the pressing need for better training on accessibility. The discussion highlighted how the travel sector can support individuals with hidden disabilities.Currently, the travel industry faces challenges in adequately serving travellers with additional needs. Industry experts argue that more comprehensive training is necessary to bridge this gap and ensure inclusivity.The conference underscored the need for continuous training rather than one-time sessions. Ireland-based agent Doey Mulligan emphasised that accessibility needs to be integrated from top to bottom within the industry. Referring to her personal experience with hidden disabilities, Mulligan pointed to the need…