Author: News Team

The UK’s summer bookings to Greece are described as a ‘crazy rollercoaster’ due to recent challenges. The UK remains Greece’s largest international market for peak tourist season, which is now extended to mid-November. Greece’s tourism director reveals unpredictable sales patterns, with fluctuations in bookings from week to week. Late bookings have increased, according to Greek hoteliers, surprising industry experts. Despite challenges, Greece reassures potential visitors of enjoyable travel experiences. The tourism sector in Greece has experienced a tumultuous season with UK summer bookings behaving unpredictably, likened to a ‘crazy rollercoaster.’ Factors such as water shortages and recent wildfires have been…

The Advantage Travel Partnership has experienced notable growth, with the addition of over 50 branches in the past year. This expansion reflects an increase of £500 million in new member turnover, illustrating the consortium’s strong market position. This growth encompasses a variety of operational models, including high street premises and homeworking agents. Such diversity underscores the flexibility and resilience of the Advantage Travel Partnership in the evolving travel industry landscape. Advantage Travel Partnership Expands Significantly The Advantage Travel Partnership has significantly expanded its network over the past year, adding more than 50 branches, which translates to an impressive £500 million…

Trainline significantly upgrades its annual profit guidance, reflecting strong first-half performance.Net ticket sales for Trainline increased by 14% to £3 billion in the first half of the financial year, surpassing previous expectations.Group revenues grew by 17% to £229 million, indicating robust business operations.The company’s B2B division, Trainline Solutions, showed promising growth with ticket sales rising by 19% to £449 million.Chief Executive Jody Ford highlighted the company’s focus on innovation and digital solutions as key drivers of success.Trainline has adjusted its annual profit forecast upwards following a robust performance during the initial half of its financial year. The company achieved a…

Coach operators experience a resurgence in business, overcoming numerous challenges.The Coach Tourism Association (CTA) reports a strong increase in business during summer 2024.Travellers’ confidence rebounds, leading to pre-2020 levels in coach tour numbers.New tourism products attract a younger demographic, expanding the traditional customer base.Late bookings and logistical complexities present challenges amidst rising demand.Members of the Coach Tourism Association (CTA) have reported a significant increase in business over the summer period of 2024. This positive trend is reflected in the robust bookings for the end of the year and into 2025, as expressed by multiple operators in the sector.Statistics indicate that…

Caribtours and ID Travel Group have officially merged, marking a significant evolution in the luxury travel industry. This merger, completed after an agreement in January, brings together years of expertise and promises enhanced customer experiences.By joining forces, these companies aim to offer a broader range of trips and improve service through increased buying power, positioning themselves as a formidable player in global luxury travel.The Strategic MergerThe recent merger between Caribtours and ID Travel Group marks a pivotal moment in the luxury travel sector. By merging, the companies aim to broaden their range of trips and enhance customer service through ‘enhanced…

First Class Holidays is introducing a new Asia touring programme with Wendy Wu Tours, focusing initially on Japan.Scheduled tours to Japan will begin next year and extend through 2026, targeting the Australasian market.The collaboration aims to enhance travel offerings with authentic experiences, exploring popular and lesser-known Japanese destinations.Wendy Wu Tours is recognised for its extensive itinerary options, including peak seasons like cherry blossom and autumn foliage.The partnership represents a strategic effort to meet growing demand for travel to Japan, with emphasis on early bookings.First Class Holidays has announced the launch of its new Asia touring initiative in partnership with Wendy…

Crystal Ski Holidays expands offerings with Sweden for winter 2025-26, enhancing options for ski enthusiasts.New weekly charter flights from Gatwick to Scandinavian Mountains, covering Salen, Staten, and Klappen, as well as reintroduced Trysil, Norway.Commencing December 21, 2025, until April 5, 2026, the service aims to offer a comprehensive winter sports experience.The expansion aligns with Crystal Ski’s strategy to broaden accessible ski destinations across 13 countries.Prices start at £680 per person, catering to families with competitive packages.Crystal Ski Holidays is introducing Sweden as a new destination for the winter season of 2025-26. This expansion will provide increased options for ski enthusiasts,…

Blue World Voyages has announced the acquisition of its first cruise ship from an undisclosed five-star line, marking a significant milestone for the sports and wellness startup.The ship will undergo an $80 million refurbishment to include luxury residences, passenger suites with wellness amenities, and eco-friendly features.Aimed at tapping into the $1.1 trillion wellness tourism market, the ship will boast extensive athletic and fitness facilities at sea.Planned itineraries will focus on the Mediterranean and Portugal, with an emphasis on adventure and personal enrichment.Blue World Voyages will collaborate closely with travel agents, emphasising their importance in the company’s forward strategies.Blue World Voyages,…

Greece plans to introduce a €20 levy for cruise ship passengers visiting its popular islands, such as Santorini and Mykonos, during peak months. This measure aims to address overtourism on select islands. The Greek Prime Minister, Kyriakos Mitsotakis, emphasises that this issue is limited to specific destinations.The government intends to regulate the simultaneous arrival of cruise ships at certain locations to ease the burden on these islands.An increased tax on short-term rentals and restrictions on new licenses in central Athens are being considered to ensure housing availability for residents.These interventions align with international efforts, as seen in cities like Venice…

Abercrombie & Kent unveils luxury villas in Tuscany targeting 2025.The collection features five exclusive properties designed for multi-generational families.Villas offer premium amenities like yoga studios and wine cellars.Each villa includes bespoke experiences such as cooking lessons and wine tasting.Abercrombie & Kent aims to redefine luxury travel with this new launch.Abercrombie & Kent, a renowned travel operator, has announced the introduction of a luxurious collection of villas in the scenic region of Tuscany, aimed at being available for travellers in 2025. The initiative marks the beginning of an expansive plan to enhance their villa offerings, with more exclusive properties anticipated in…