Author: News Team

Fiona and Daniel Thomas, a dynamic mother-and-son team, have introduced Fraser Campbell Travel, an agency dedicated to the luxury cruise market. Drawing on their extensive experiences from over 170 cruises, they aim to deliver unparalleled travel experiences.Daniel’s journey in the cruise industry began at a young age, and alongside Fiona, they are committed to offering clients exceptional service and unforgettable journeys. Together, they bring a unique blend of operational and guest experience expertise to their new venture.Background and ExperienceFiona and Daniel Thomas are not newcomers to the cruise industry. Collectively, they have embarked on over 170 cruises, providing them with…

Travel agents are at a pivotal point where embracing artificial intelligence is critical for future readiness. This sentiment echoes across industry discussions, highlighting technology’s increasing role.Adapting to AI is not just about staying current; it’s about leveraging these advancements to enhance customer service and operational efficiency. As the travel sector evolves, it’s crucial for agents to understand and integrate these technologies effectively.The Call to Embrace AIBarrhead Travel agents have been encouraged to familiarise themselves with the advancing landscape of artificial intelligence (AI). Industry experts suggest adaptation is key to staying relevant. This advice emerged during a panel discussion at Barrhead’s…

Celebrating 10 years of successful trading, Love To Travel sets its sights on a strategic expansion plan.With an increased focus on growing its homeworking arm, the agency aims to hire more external talent and possibly open new branches.Love To Travel is commemorating its 10th anniversary milestone with a strategic plan for expansion, focusing on both its homeworking arm and potential new high street branches. This decision reflects the brand’s continued dedication to growth by recruiting expertise from outside the travel industry.The agency is placing a particular emphasis on expanding its team of homeworkers. Owner Joanne Dooey has expressed a strong…

Travel House, a key player in the Welsh travel industry, has embarked on a groundbreaking venture by unveiling its first-ever television advertisement developed using generative artificial intelligence (AI).This strategic move, aimed at boosting visibility and engagement, will be broadcast in the ITV Wales region through ITV1 and ITVX platforms.Strategic Collaboration with ITVThe collaboration between Travel House and ITV marks an innovative approach to advertisement production. The Welsh agency has partnered with ITV’s expanded commercial creative production service, utilising generative AI to create a high-quality ad that raises the agency’s profile in South Wales.This cutting-edge approach demonstrates ITV’s commitment to making…

Travel agents Mandy Semper and Adaline Nicholson were notably impressed by Cunard’s offerings after participating in the line’s familiarisation (fam) and ship visit programme.The positive experiences from these initiatives have resulted in both agents booking their own cruises with Cunard, reflecting the programme’s impact on the agents’ booking decisions.Cunard’s Fam Trip InfluenceMandy Semper, assistant manager at Lincolnshire Co-operative Travel, embarked on a four-night familiarisation trip aboard Cunard’s newest ship, the Queen Anne, in August. The experience led her to book a seven-night Norwegian Fjords cruise, set for May 2025, featuring celebrity chef Michel Roux.”The atmosphere on Queen Anne was more…

The UK Civil Aviation Authority has introduced a cutting-edge upgrade to its Atol claims portal.This evolution marks a significant enhancement in the processing and security of consumer claims within the travel sector.The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has launched a revamped version of its Atol claims portal, marking a significant advancement in consumer service within the travel industry. The newly introduced system replaces the outdated externally-hosted platform, enhancing both efficiency and security measures for users.A notable feature of the upgraded portal is its enhanced security protocols. These measures are built to protect users against potential fraud, safeguarding sensitive information effectively.…

Julie Franklin, Head of Agency Sales at Inghams, highlighted a missed opportunity for agents in promoting their walking holidays. The shift from a broad market perspective to a specialist offering opens new avenues.With the new focus on ‘Inghams Walking’, there is an emphasis on targeting homeworkers who prefer specialised, unique holiday experiences. This strategy aims to align with their expertise in non-mainstream holiday packages.Agents’ Potential with Walking HolidaysThe opportunity for agents to promote Inghams’ walking holidays is significant. Julie Franklin pointed out that many agents are overlooking the potential of these offerings. The walking holidays align perfectly with the preferences…

In a move set to catalyse its ambitious growth strategy, Newmarket Holidays has secured a significant private equity investment. The involvement of key industry figures in the company’s board is poised to steer the company towards new opportunities, leveraging their combined expertise.Newmarket Holidays has announced a landmark private equity investment aimed at accelerating its growth trajectory. Soho Square Capital, in its initial foray into the travel sector, is injecting an undisclosed sum into the company. This strategic move retains current owners Simon Hibbs, Jeremy Griffin, Toni Frei, and CEO Niel Alobaidi as majority stakeholders while introducing new leadership dynamics. Geoff…

Wizz Air experienced a significant system error affecting thousands of bookings. Although it caused confusion among passengers, no flights were disrupted. All affected flights have since been restored.Overview of the System ErrorA major technical error recently affected Wizz Air’s booking system. The airline announced that numerous bookings were impacted, leading to temporary disruptions on their website and mobile app. Passengers encountered unexpected changes to their itineraries, with some flights appearing cancelled. The airline quickly addressed the issue on social media, advising customers to ignore the erroneous notifications until resolved.The system error did not actually disrupt any flights. This crucial piece…

Shane Lewis-Riley, a recognised leader in the travel industry with over two decades of experience, is set to join Titan Travel. His new appointment as Trade Distribution Director comes at a time of strategic growth for the company.Lewis-Riley’s extensive background, particularly with Virgin Voyages and P&O Cruises, has prepared him for this pivotal role. His leadership is expected to significantly enhance the company’s trade partnerships and market positioning.Background and ExperienceShane Lewis-Riley, an industry veteran with more than 20 years of experience, will soon embark on a new journey with Titan Travel as the Trade Distribution Director. Having previously served as…