Author: Scott Dylan

The European Union has postponed its Entry/Exit System (EES) rollout once more. This biometric border control system, aimed at enhancing security for non-EU travellers, faces operational delays due to technological challenges.Nevertheless, the EU remains committed to its implementation, indicating a phased introduction as member states address necessary infrastructural requirements.The European Union has once again postponed the launch of its Entry/Exit System (EES), a biometric border control mechanism for non-EU travellers. Initially slated for November 10, the implementation has stalled due to Germany, France, and the Netherlands expressing their inability to operationalise the system. This delay underscores the complexities involved in…

Manchester Airport has marked a monumental achievement by surpassing 30 million passengers in a year, reflecting significant growth.This accomplishment positions the airport among global leaders and signifies its importance as a major international travel hub.Record Passenger NumbersThe airport witnessed an unprecedented surge in passenger numbers over the past year. More than 30.1 million passengers travelled through, marking a significant milestone – the first time such figures have been recorded. This achievement places Manchester Airport alongside global giants like La Guardia in New York and Melbourne Airport, signifying its growing international stature.September saw over three million passengers pass through Manchester Airport,…

The UK luxury travel industry recently gathered to celebrate its leading figures at the Aspire Awards.Held at the prestigious Kimpton Clocktower Hotel, the event was attended by over 400 industry professionals.The awards honoured top agencies and suppliers, highlighting achievements and innovations in luxury travel.Aspire recently celebrated excellence in the UK luxury travel sector at its annual awards ceremony. More than 400 attendees gathered at the Kimpton Clocktower Hotel in Manchester, underscoring the event’s prestige.Aspire’s commitment to recognising achievements not only celebrates current successes but also inspires future innovation and excellence in the luxury travel industry.The Aspire Awards continue to be…

Black Opal Travel Group, a leader in luxury travel, is enhancing its operational capabilities by recruiting homeworking agents as part of its broader expansion strategy.This move comes as part of Black Opal’s response to increasing client engagement through agents, reflecting a commitment to growing its market presence sustainably.Homeworking Opportunities at Black OpalBlack Opal Travel Group, renowned for its expertise in sports tours and luxury holidays, is now expanding its workforce by recruiting up to four new homeworking travel agents.This strategic move aligns with the company’s growth plans and the increasing trend of clients preferring the flexibility of home-based agents. Agents…

InteleTravel is projecting a significant increase in sales for 2024, with an expected growth of 70% over 2023. This growth is primarily attributed to the strong performance in the UK and Ireland markets.The company, which reached £95 million in sales by the end of August 2024, is experiencing a remarkable upsurge in the UK and Ireland, exceeding last year’s achievement of £85 million. This success is further highlighted by its expansion efforts and strategic focus on cruising.Remarkable Market PerformanceInteleTravel has projected £143 million in sales for 2024, marking a 70% increase compared to 2023. This substantial growth is largely driven…

DTH Travel has introduced an innovative set of 12 comprehensive guides for Asia, curating vital destination information for travel agents. These guides aim to enhance agents’ ability to plan and book enriching experiences for their clients.Cultural insights and expert tips form the backbone of these guides, offering agents a competitive edge. With a focus on diverse locations like Thailand, Japan, and the Maldives, DTH Travel empowers agents with the knowledge to navigate Asia’s rich tapestry of cultures.Unlocking Asia’s Potential for Travel AgentsThe newly released guides from DTH Travel underscore the growing importance of Asia as a key destination for travellers…

The cruise and touring industries are gearing up to embrace new growth avenues by targeting evolving markets.Older and affluent travellers are identified as key demographics poised for unique travel experiences.Targeting Emerging Markets for Future GrowthThe cruise and touring sectors are poised to tap into emerging markets with considerable potential for expansion. In a recent panel at the Abta Travel Convention, the focus was on demographics that present outstanding growth opportunities in the coming years. The discussion highlighted a strategic shift towards appealing to older, more affluent travellers who seek unique and premium experiences.PwC identified the older traveller segment as a…

Marella Cruises has introduced its much-anticipated summer 2026 itineraries, promising a unique blend of celestial events and anniversary celebrations. The announcement comes as part of Tui’s commitment to delivering exceptional travel experiences.The highlight of Marella Cruises’ summer 2026 offerings is the Cosmopolitan Charms itinerary aboard the Marella Discovery 2. Departing from Palma in Majorca on 11 August 2026, this voyage provides passengers a rare opportunity to witness a solar eclipse at sea on 12 August. The journey includes stops at notable destinations such as Palamos in Spain, Propriano in France, and several renowned Italian ports including Civitavecchia, Salerno, and Palermo.All-inclusive…

Azamara Cruises has launched an upgraded global reservation system. It is aimed at enhancing efficiency for travel agents globally. The system incorporates essential tools to improve the booking process.Key Features of the New Reservation SystemThe upgraded RezA platform brings several innovative features, streamlining the selling process for agents. Agents can now send payment links, manage group bookings, and automate payment reminders. This advancement ensures a more seamless and efficient booking experience, reducing the time agents spend on each reservation.Enhancing Agent CapabilitiesWith the new system, agents receive recognition at the booking level and can easily duplicate reservations for clients travelling together.…

Crystal Cruises has unveiled a new incentive aimed at boosting agent engagement and rewarding their sales efforts. This initiative offers a free suite on selected cruises, enriching the agents’ ability to attract clients with enhanced travel offerings.Incentive OverviewCrystal Cruises has introduced a compelling new incentive titled ‘Sell Three, Sail Free’, designed to reward travel agents’ dedication and sales efforts. Agents who successfully book three Aquamarine suites or higher-grade accommodations on selected departures will receive a complimentary suite for themselves or their travelling party. This offer extends to 18 unique sailings, providing a diverse range of journey options across global destinations,…