Giving agents the edge
Weddings & Honeymoons
Shepherd someone’s special day with our top destination wedding picks–or harbour their dream honeymoon!
Mediterranean Islands
From winter sun to summer favourites, the Med has it all Pg. 13
Exploration & Adventure
The boundary-pushing, the adrenaline-pumping, and the eye-opening Pg. 21 more in...
An
MUSIC FILLS THE AIRWAVES
AFTER THE announcement of Beyoncé’s highly-anticipated Cowboy Carter tour last month, travel company eDreams ODIGEO has revealed that searches for London increased by up to 49% for her concert dates in June. This increase follows the continued demand for music-based air travel as flight searches continue to skyrocket following event announcements.
Collating data from online brands eDreams.co.uk and Opodo.co.uk, eDreams ODIGEO’s data is based on over 100 million daily searches across 44 markets. In terms of which nationalities are flocking to the UK capital for the chance to see the Queen B, the data shows travellers from the US (25% of total searches) are topping the charts, followed by Germany (8%) and Spain (8%).
Music tourism remains a significant driver for air travel. Last year, Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour broke countless records and shifted consumer travel behaviour across continents. Searches for Edinburgh and Liverpool during
her shows last June grew 176% and 133% respectively, and Brits were the top of the leaderboard for most travel searches to Lisbon, Warsaw, Edinburgh and Cardiff during her tour dates.
Flight searches to the UK have also skyrocketed for this summer following the announcement of Oasis’ reunion, with an average increase of 2,838% on the day of the announcement. The data revealed these searches were led by Italians, Spaniards, Germans, Brits and French travellers.
Kylie Minogue and Dua Lipa have further confirmed this trend, as searches for Seville have increase 28% for Kylie’s show next July, and searches to Liverpool has risen by 67% to coincide with Dua Lipa’s concert in June. Key music events like Eurovision are no exception, with searches to Switzerland up 574% following its win last year, and festivals like Coachella and Primavera Sound continue to attract music lovers from all over the world.
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Fiji anticipates airlift boost after record 2024
OVER A million guests visited Fiji last year; Fiji Airways is celebrating with a new connection set to take flight in April.
With more than 980,000 of its visitors arriving by plane, the airline's new Dallas Fort Worth service, which began on December 10th, 2024, and its new flight from Cairns operating from April 10th, 2025 will no doubt provide further supply to cater for the impressive demand, which last year was up 13.1% in the UK against 2023.
First Class Holidays reported a 118% increase in hotel room nights booked on the island between 2023 and 2024 and Anzcro UK saw a 50% spike in sales.
Over 80,000 of last year's visitors arrived by cruise ship. www.fiji.travel
Sofitel's largest property opens in Cairo
SOFITEL’S NEW 615-room fivestar, on the bank of the Nile in downtown Cairo, is the brand's largest property yet.
Positioned as a gateway to the city's iconic ancient landmarks, the Sofitel Cairo Downtown Nile promises a contemporary charm.
Nicolas Gronier, Sofitel's VP of global marketing, said the property "signifies an important milestone in Sofitel’s commitment to redefining luxury hospitality; it also is the largest hotel that we’ve opened anywhere in the world.”
www.sofitel.accor.com
Elite expands with homeworking and managed memberships
FOR THE first time in Elite Travel Group’s near-50-year history, membership options for managed agents and homeworkers are now available.
Caroline Page, the consortium's business development manager, announced the news in a statement, declaring that Elite is "moving with the times.
"The travel industry is evolving and here at Elite we recognise the need for flexibility. Our new offerings give travel agents with experience the ability to take the next step in their career whether that is starting up on their own or moving their current business forward.”
Elite Travel Group promises a variety of membership options catering to a range of requirements and budgets. It will celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2027. www.elitetravelgroup.co.uk
Minor Hotels pens new opening in Ras Al Khaimah
MINOR HOTELS has announced the latest addition to its portfolio: the NH Collection Ras Al Khaimah Al Marjan Island Hotel & Apartments will open its doors on Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah in early 2028.
Located 30 minutes from Ras Al Khaimah International Airport and one hour from Dubai, the new 156-key property promises high-end facilities including four restaurants, a gym, an outdoors swimming area, a kids’ club
and games room, a retail space and working/meeting areas.
Minor Hotels CEO, Dillip Rajakarier, said the development “will seamlessly blend style, functionality, and exceptional value, setting new standards.”
The new NH Collection property will join the 17 Minor properties currently open across the UAE.
www.minorhotels.com
movers shakers&
SANI/IKOS GROUP is welcoming several new additions to its trade team: Brendan Mallon will work with agents in Scotland and Ireland, Leiza Sullivan with agents in the North of England, Karl Oliver with agents in the Midlands, and Francesca Thompson-allott with agents in the South of England.
NICOLA HARPER, head of distribution at Ambassador Cruise Line, has taken maternity leave; Karen Cameron, deputy head of trade, will take over Nicola’s role on an interim basis.
Preferred streamlines agent bookings
PREFERRED HOTELS & Resorts’ new Travel Advisor Portal collates booking management tools, a streamlined search function and a knowledge base to learn about the brand's luxury portfolio.
With over 600 independent luxury hotels, resorts and residences now members of the Preferred portfolio, the platform promises curated and simplified access to booking research, confirmation and management for agents.
Instant access to relevant eligible rates is accessible, plus tradeexclusive offers.
www.ta.preferredhotels.com
The Holiday Fixers hosts first conference
27 HOME-BASED Holiday Fixers were joined by members of the corporate team and suppliers at the company's first-ever conference in January.
The Holiday Fixers' founder and CEO, Britt-Marie Monks, said the team "never
imagined [the first conference] would be such a resounding success.
2025 will see the brand launch a new website, recruit a sales manager and target £3 million in overall sales.
www.theholidayfixer.com
JetBlue celebrates a quarter of a century
2025 MARKS JetBlue’s 25th birthday; to celebrate, it is installing automated bag tag printers at many of its airports and promising customers enhanced baggage notifications.
May 23rd, 2025 will see a new service from Edinburgh to Boston launch, alongside the continuation of its service between Edinburgh and JFK. A new EvenMore premium service will launch, offering dedicated overhead bin space and a new premium snack among other amenities.
www.jetblue.com
Crystal promises faster payouts
COMMISSION ON standard Crystal Cruises bookings will now be paid out up to 50 days before departure, depending on booking length.
Sailings under 40 nights will be paid out 50 days before departure; cruises longer than 40 nights will be paid out 90 days before departure.
20% Explorer fare bookings will be paid out within 30 days of the final payment being made. www.crystalcruises.co.uk
ETIHAD HAS rolled out its elevated digital experience across its website and mobile app, offering travellers a modern and more efficient platform. The website’s navigation has been re-engineered to allow users to move more seamlessly through the site, and more personalised self-service options have been added. www.etihad.com
AITO announces details on fourth famference
AITO - THE Specialist Travel Association's fourth conference will be hosted by Visit Gibraltar. Taking place from June 5th to 8th, 2025, AITO's 'famference' will unite agents and trade-friendly tour operators for a whole host of activities and experiences.
AITO has promised ample opportunities for networking and chances to explore some of Gibraltar's lesser-known attractions.
Gemma Antrobus, AITO Specialist Travel
Saudia expands global network
10
Agents' chair, said, "Building on the immense success of our previous events in Malta, Tenerife and the Algarve, we are thrilled to announce our fourth AITO Specialist Travel Agents' Famference."
Gibraltar's Minister for Tourism, Hon. Christian Santos, described the conference as "a great opportunity for frontline travel agents and tour operators.” www.aito.com
NEW destinations will join Saudia’s global network this year, offering a diverse range across Europe, the Middle East and Asia. The new additions include Vienna, Austria; Venice, Italy; Larnaka, Cyprus; Athens and Heraklion, Greece; Nice, France; Malaga, Spain; Bali, Indonesia; Antalya, Türkiye; El Alamein, Egypt; and Salalah, Oman.
The strategic growth is fuelled by the reported 16% increase in international visitors last year, reflecting the airline’s commitment to meeting global; demand and connecting the world. The expansion will be facilitated by Saudia’s fleet of 147 Boeing and Airbus aircrafts, with a 118 new additions set to join the roster in the coming years. www.saudia.com
Holland America hits the history books
HOLLAND AMERICA Line has announced a new multi-year partnership with The History Channel, comprising of new itineraries and excursions to provide guests with more historical insights into the places visited. www.hollandamericaline.com
AGENT INCENTIVES
● AGENTS BOOKING trips to the Channel Islands, where the iconic Bergerac and its reboot (which hit screens on the BBC last month) was filmed, with Prestige Travel could win a classic car driving experience. Joe Lavers, the operator's trade relationship manager, hopes "to offer something different as a reward to those agents who support Prestige Travel" with the incentive. Any Channel Islands breaks with Prestige Travel booked before the end of March will be entered into the prize draw. www.prestigetravel.co.uk
● UNTIL MARCH 31st, 2025, agents will bank double rewards of £20 per booking on the first 10 bookings and £40 for bookings logged thereafter for Blue Diamond resorts in the West Indies. Agents booking could also win a spot on one of the resort brand’s fam trips to the Caribbean this year. www.shorturl.at/3aqL8
● A BOLSTERED incentive applies to agent bookings for Antarctica and Arctic sailings throughout 2025/26 with Swan Hellenic made before March 16th, 2025. Up to £500 per booking will be rewarded (based on two people sharing a cabin), alongside a £400 per booking bonus gift voucher to a retailer of agents' choice.
www.swanhellenic.com/p artners
● ALL PLAYA Hotels & Resorts bookings for properties in the Dominican Republic confirmed before March 31st, 2025 are eligible for double rewards, with every single booking also entered into a prize draw to join a fam trip to the Dominican Republic or Mexico.
www.playarewards.com
Agent bulletin
JUST YOU’S 25th anniversary celebrations includes an incentive with up to £15,000 worth of prizes up for grabs: pictured here is Rebecca Holt from Hays Travel, the lucky winner of a Marc Jacobs tote bag, and Rachel Mould, G Touring’s head of trade sales.
Competition
Win loyalty points and up to three nights’ all-inclusive at Bahia Principe properties
Find out more at www.travelbulletin.co.uk/bahiaprincipe-hotels-resorts-competition
AGENT TRAINING
● VANUATU SPECIALISTS is your one-stop shop for online training modules to learn all things Vanuatu, access an agent toolkit to supercharge your selling, and unlock trade-exclusive airline and accommodation rates for stays of your own.
www.vanuatuspecialists.com
● BARBADOS ELITE Club earns you access to exclusive agent rewards, training modules across a variety of themes, and unique fam opportunities.
www.uk.barbadoseliteclub.com
● ON THE back of AmaWaterways' record sales to France in 2024 (up 134% against 2023), the river cruise operator has launched a new AmaAcademy course centring around its river voyages across France; agents completing the module can unlock discounted fam rates and a £25 Love2shop voucher. 'The Rivers of France' showcases the brand's sailings across Saône, Rhône, Seine, Garonne and Dordogne rivers aboard its French fleet (AmaDante, AmaDolce, AmaLyra and AmaKristina). AmaAcademy can be accessed at www.amawaterways.co.uk/a gent-login
● UK TRAVELLERS on domestic staycations spend over £90 billion every year–fancy a slice of the pie? VisitEngland’s ‘Taking England to the World’ training promises expert insights via a face-to-face shop visit or virtual courses. www.visitbritain.org/trainingand-events/taking-england-w orld-trade-educationprogramme
● THAILAND EXPERT features online training, regular competitions, a supplier directory and an agent toolbox for promotional assets, brochures and other resources. www.thailandexpert.co.uk
● MARCH IS the final month to register for Brazil Specialist and be in with a chance of winning flights to Brazil www.brasiltravelspecialist.co m/login
Advantage confirms robust easter demand, up 15%
AS EASTER approaches, the Advantage Travel Partnership has unveiled promising insights into booking habits. Demand overall is up 15% for the Easter period against 2024, with the family market up 4%.
Tenerife, Antalya and the Costa Blanca lead the winter
sun rankings, with Mexico and New York topping the long-haul demand league.
Kelly Cookes, the Advantage Travel Partnership’s chief commercial officer, unpacked the data. “It's unsurprising that destinations such as Tenerife, Lanzarote and the Costa Blanca continue to be popular... they can be reliably sunny and good value for travellers.”
The Partnership also suggested that family bookings show the same slowness as 2024; families are committed to getting a better deal by travelling outside of the peak periods and booking later.
Continuing, Kelly predicted, “We anticipate that the popularity of shows like White Lotus set in Thailand and Love Island All Stars filmed in South Africa will further fuel interest in these destinations... [and] we can expect to see cruise grow in popularity.” www.advantagemembers.com
HOLIDAY EXTRAS has expanded its airport parking portfolio. The provider now offers parking with Park2Travel, the closest off-airport car park to Dublin Airport. Agents can save around £25 (€30) on the gate rate. Chief business development officer Simon Hagger said, “We expect people heading off on holiday to get from the car park to the door in about six minutes, and save some of their holiday money when they do.” www.holidayextras.com
TTC Tour Brands’ ‘Walkie Talkies’ return
TTC TOUR Brands held the first of its popular ‘Walkie Talkie’ training sessions last month, visiting Kent on February 27th
The sessions swap traditional in-store product training for a walk with Donna Nelson, TTC Tour Brands’ homeworking sales manager, and her pet dog Arla.
Donna described the training as “a fantastic way to bring the industry closer together in a format that suits today’s travel professionals.
“We’ve seen firsthand how beneficial these sessions have been, and we’re thrilled to continue Walkie Talkies into 2025.”
The next ‘Walkie Talkie’ session will take place in Surrey on May 6th, 2025, with more scheduled throughout the UK this year. TTC Tour Brands extends invitations to desk-based agents and homeworkers looking for a break from their desks.
www.ttc.com
Leger unveils first standalone rail brochure
‘FULLY ESCORTED Rail Holidays Throughout Europe 2025-2026 Collection’ is Leger Holidays’ first-ever standalone rail holidays brochure. Options include departures from the UK or holidays featuring iconic rail journeys accessible by flight.
Head of retail sales Ashley Dellow said the brochure stars “some real wishlist rail experiences... agents increasingly tell me their customers want to avoid airports and many of the tours in the brochure offer travel from London to Europe by rail – it’s a faster way to get the holiday underway but like coach travel it’s stress free and gives the chance to relax...”
The brochure can be ordered via Tradegate. www.leger.co.uk
ECN welcomes newbie duo
THE EXPEDITION Cruise Network has welcomed Selar and Galaxy Expeditions to its member roster ahead of its July conference, described as “incredible additions to the network” by CEO and cofounder Akvile Marozaite. www.expeditioncruisenetwork.com
SUDOKU
Win a £20 M&S voucher in the SuDoku prize puzzle
Fill in all the squares in the grid so that each row, column and each of the 3 x 3 squares contains the digits 1-9.
Once you have completed the puzzle, simply identify the numbers that relate to the letters, A, B, C and D then e-mail the solution, with your name, company name, and full postal address plus phone and ABTA number if applicable to:
competition@travelbulletin.co.uk
Closing date for entries is Thursday, March 20th. Solution and new puzzle will appear next week.
February 21st Solution: A=4 B=2 C=9 D=3
For all competitions visit http://www.travelbulletin.co.uk/component/r sform/form/1593-Travel-Trivia-Quiz
1 London based operator, namesake of the French author of Around the World in 80 Days (5,5) 5 Currency of Saudi Arabia (5) 7 US state, home to the Craters of the Moon National Monument (5) 9 Capital of Queensland (8)
11 One of the five Great ones found in America (4,4)
13 Actor Hugh, back as Daniel Cleaver in the latest Bridget Jones movie (5) 14 Hotels and Resorts company with HQ in Chicago (5) 16 Historic South Carolina city, sounds like a dance requiring lots of swivel (10)
OTHERWISE KNOWN as Eivissa, this captial city is the heart of European nightlife. While the area is renowned for its party lifestyle, more attention is now being drawn to its family-friendly offerings.
1 I sland setting for the new re-booted TV detective drama, Bergerac (6)
London City airport code (3)
Waverley railway station serves this capital (9) 4 National airline of Poland (3)
6 City where King Richard III was found under a car park (9)
8 Scottish singer-songwriter, ___ Lennox (5)
9 One of the Costas (5) 10 State capital of Texas (6) 12 France's high-speed rail service (3)
15 Canberra is the capital, initially (3)
6 LEICESTER, 8 ANNIE, 9 BRAVA, 10 AUSTIN, 12 TGV, 15 ACT.
14 HYATT, 16 CHARLESTON.
4
Across: 1 JULES VERNE, 5 RIYAL, 7 IDAHO, 9 BRISBANE, 11 LAKE ERIE, 13 GRANT,
Down: 1 JERSEY, 2 LCY, 3 EDINBURGH,
LOT,
Mystery Word: ELBA
Bloomin’ bargains with Ambassador spring sale
A RANGE of discounted deals and package perks are available to travellers as part of Ambassador’s latest campaign.
The ‘Bloomin’ Great Spring Deals Campaign’ offers a vast array of deals across the 2025, 2026 and 2027 seasons.
Guests who book by April
2nd, 2025, can take advantage of a range of offers, including 30% off second guests, 15% off solo bookings, and 15% off Ambassador Expedition drinks packages, which includes all premium and house spirits and wines, premium teas and coffees and unlimited soft drinks.
All first-time bookings are covered with the Ambassador Guarantee, which promises a fare reimbursement for dissatisfied guests.
The campaign also includes benefits for large group bookings, where groups of 15 or more will enjoy 5% savings. Groups of 25 adults will be offered the 26th place for free, while groups of 50 will be offered two complimentary spaces for the 51st and 52nd guests.
The promotion is valid across both Ambience and Ambition vessels. www.ambassadorcruiseline.com
THE WYNDHAM Alltra Punta Cana is now bookable for agents through DNATA. Playa Hotels & Resorts’ commercial director, Anders Sparkhall, said, “We are excited that agents across the UK can now book our newest property... Alltra Punta Cana has allowed Playa to widen its net in terms of providing an increased opportunity to sell destination Dominican Republic with a greater choice.” www.playaresorts.com
American Cruise Line announces record season
2025 PROMISES to be the “most exciting” season yet for American Cruise Line; it will offer more than a dozen itineraries sailing along the world-famous river and its tributaries all year round.
Ranging from eight- to 51-days, ACL will offer an array of authentic American experiences across 10 states, including Louisiana and Minnesota.
The Mississippi season began on February
Newmarket’s new Alaska-Cali combo
21st, 2025, when American Serenade set sail on the classic nine-day ‘Lower Mississippi River Cruise’ from New Orleans to Memphis. New for 2025, the season will host a 12-day ‘Mississippi Explorer Cruise’ from Memphis to New Orleans as well as the new 16-day ‘Grand Ohio River Cruise’ from Pittsburgh to St. Louis.
Prices for the season lead in from £2,927. www.americancruiselines.com
NEWMARKET HOLIDAYS has become the first in the industry to combine the cold tundra of the Last Frontier with the home of Hollywood in one bespoke itinerary. ‘Alaska Cruise & America’s Great West’ will take travellers on a journey along the US West Coast by land and sea, beginning the trip with five days spent in sunny Santa Monica, the Hollywood Hills and San Francisco with a variety of guided tours and free time.
Hayley Morris, head of trade sales and partnerships, said, “We're thrilled to be the first operator to bring Alaska and the Great West coast together in one package, in a combination we think will prove a real winner for agents.” www.newmarketholidays.co.uk
Sandals lates from London & Manchester
FLIGHT-INCLUSIVE PACKAGES are on offer with Sandals' late deals to Barbados, departing before April 30th, 2025. Seven-night options from London lead in from £2,485 per person, while options flying from Manchester lead in at £2,315 per person. www.sandals.co.uk
Mediterranean Islands A SLICE OF SARDINIA
The latest addition to the Sardinian Places roster is far
SARDINIAN PLACES has added the four-star Is Molas Resort to its accommodation roster for 2025, promising an indulgent option for travellers seeking a high-end stay in southern Sardinia.
Located near the town of Pula, the resort is set against a mountainous
Star Clippers sets course for the Med
STAR CLIPPERS has announced 15 themed sailings for its upcoming Mediterranean summer. Guests will be joined by yoga instructors, wellness experts, specialist chefs and, in a cruise first, a celebrity stylist.
Faye McCormack, the general manager of Star Clippers’ UK GSA, said the themes hope to “elevate and enhance the on-board experience of our guests.”
Yoga-themed departures will set sail from Cannes on May 3rd, Rome on July 19th and Venice on August 21st. www.starclippers.co.uk
backdrop and is home to a range of facilities tailored for both relaxation and activity.
One of the resort’s key attractions is its 18-hole Championship golf course, recognized as one of Europe's most scenic. Golf-inclined guests also have access to a 9-hole course and a driving range.
The clubhouse, complete with a terrace bar and restaurant, serves as a central spot for relaxation after a game.
Additional amenities include an outdoor pool and landscaped gardens, providing spaces for guests to unwind.
The main restaurant offers a mix of
Sardinian and international dishes in a poolside setting. For beachgoers, a white sand beach with clear waters is a short 10-minute drive away.
Guests can also take advantage of the resort’s private beach club, with a complimentary shuttle service available.
Accommodation options include various room categories and golf packages. Sardinian Places offers seven-night packages starting from £1,389 per person, which include flights from Gatwick to Cagliari and car hire.
www.sardinianplaces.co.uk
Where better than the Med in May?
CRYSTAL RECENTLY announced its roster of voyages for H1 2027. Throughout May 2027, Crystal Symphony will be stationed in the Med, beginning in Greece before calling in Montenegro, Croatia, Malta, and drawing to a close in the Italian and Spanish rivieras. Voyages are on sale now. www.crystalcruises.co.uk
Mirabello Bay undergoes rebrand to elevate Mediterranean luxury
ZEUS INTERNATIONAL has announced a strategic rebranding project which will see the Group designate its signature approach to luxury hospitality for its Mediterranean clients.
To launch the rebrand, which is set to be complete by the end of 2025, the Group is upgrading its flagship property Mirabello Bay Luxury Resort (renamed from Wyndham Grand Mirabello Bay) to offer guests exclusive new services, amenities and villas along the Cretan coast.
Mirabello Bay will introduce five new private villas that can accommodate up to 12 guests. Each property is complete with private pool and lush gardens perfect for family getaways.
Guests who choose to spend their
holiday in one of the 103 bungalows, suites and villas will experience brand-new VIP services and privileges, including private check ins/outs, access to the new 2,000sqm Mirabello beach section with luxurious loungers, and access to a private beach bar. Additionally, guests will benefit from private access to the Elia restaurant and enjoy priority bookings for all reservations. www.mirabellobay.com
Jumeirah Mallorca reopens
JUMEIRAH MALLORCA is set to reopen its doors next week to mark the beginning of the season. From March 15th, guests will be able to stay inside the clifftop retreat with from €590 per night in the low season.
New for this season, guests will be able to take part in an exclusive land-based excursion through the Tramuntana Mountains where guests will navigate the hairpin bends before enjoying the scenic descent to the secluded Sa Calobra bay. www.jumeirah.com
Putting mystery back into the Med
VARIETY CRUISES’ Mystery Cruise is returning to the Med this June where guests will spend seven nights sailing through Italy and Malta. Secret ports will be unveiled to guests a few hours before arrival, promising an immersive experience away from the crowds.
www.varietycruises.com
Olympic Holidays’ idyllic island gem
OLYMPIC HOLIDAYS made several new additions to its portfolio for 2025, including an under-the-radar Cypriot village that serves as a lowkey counterpoint to the island’s iconic and long-favoured destinations.
Just about halfway between Limassol and Larnaca sits Lefkara, a town on the edge of Cyprus’ gorgeous Trodos Mountains (fitting, then, that it gets its name from the Greek Lefka Ori, meaning ‘White Mountains’).
The slower pace of Lefkara promises an authenticity driven out of the more popular resort areas of the island. Local tavernas, traditional stone-built houses and locals continuing the traditional ‘Lefkaritika’, an intricate lacework style unique to the area, are all commonplace.
Seven nights at the Ionian Blue Hotel & Spa in Lefkara lead in at £505 per person. The sample itinerary includes bed-and-breakfast accommodation in a Superior Twin Sea View room and flights from London Gatwick. www.olympicholidays.com
Meliá makes Med movements
WITH THE last two years seeing the repositioning of 40 hotels across the Meliá portfolio, including the Meliá Ibiza last year, the brand is continuing to refresh its Mediterranean island approach.
2025 began with the signing of a new hotel in Palma (the third INNSiDE by Meliá property in the Mallorca capital) with openings in Málaga, Ronda and Cádiz confirmed for 2025 and 2026. www.melia.com
NEW FOR 2025, Just Go!
Holidays is offering a 10-day allinclusive tour of Crete. The ‘Jewels of Crete’ itinerary allows guests to explore the ancient island with visits to the ancient city of Heraklion, the Old Town of Chania and the Palace of Knossos. Travellers will enjoy further excursions to the Lassithi Plateau, the largest mountain in Crete, and the town of Margarites, the home of pottery. Prices lead in from £1,599 with return flights to either Gatwick, Edinburgh or Manchester. www.justgoholidays.com/agents
A magical summer stop in Sardinia
FOR THE first time, Disney Cruise Line is heading to Cagliari, Sardinia as part of its summer 2026 season.
Disney Dream will return to Europe for the summer season, inviting guests to travel on seven- and 12-night sailings through the Mediterranean with stops in Malta, Italy, Spain and the Greek islands of Santorini, Mykonos and Rhodes. www.disneycruise.com
Sicily’s sacred sites and more await with Andante
SPECIALISING IN archaeological travel with a direct focus on the history and culture of a destination, Andante Travels offers tours to some of the Med’s most poignant historical sites.
In its 12-day ‘Classical Sicily’ tour, guests will circle the island, which was once at the heart of the ancient world, to walk in the footsteps of some legendary figures.
Guests will walk through temples, strongholds and cathedrals, identifying their role in history and walking among the melting pot of ancient cultures who resided in Sicily. Guests will be joined on
the tour by expert guide lecturer Jamie Sewell and a professional tour manager from Andante Travels.
The tour is complete with an array of exclusive activities and excursions, including a special-access evening visiting the mosaics at Cappella Palatina.
Prices lead in from £6,095 per person, for a departure on October 14th 2025. The price includes return flights to London, accommodation with most meals, all entrance fees and services from an expert lecturer and tour guide.
www.andantetravel.co.uk
Creta Maris unveils adults-only area to celebrate its golden year
PROMISING AN amalgamation of authentic Cretan culture with elevated guest experiences, Creta Maris Resort is celebrating its 50th anniversary with the launch of a new adults-only area, offering a more intimate and luxurious escape. While still a family resort at heart, the introduction of the new adults-only area pens the start of a new chapter for those guests seeking a peaceful retreat. Guests can choose from three Deluxe Rooms, each offering views of the surround gardens or coastline, or choose instead to indulge in a sanctuary surrounded by sea in one of the
Sea-Front Rooms.
A pool resides inside the area, with the Sima Beach bar located nearby. Just steps away from the pool lies the stretching white-sand beach where guests have access to private gazebos and an outdoor spa pavillion.
The new space compliments the resort’s existing adults-only amenities, including the Alatsi Seafood Restaurant and the al fresco Adama Cocktail Bar.
Andreas Metaxas, CEO of Creta Maris Resort, said, “Creta Maris Resort’s 50th Anniversary is a true testament to our commitment to sustainable hospitality, excellence, and the spirit of Greek tradition [...] we look forward to continuing our journey of growth, innovation, and authentic service.”
www.cretamaris.gr
: Top: Canva Pro, Top Left: Adobe Stock, Bottom Left: Disney Cruise Line, Bottom: Creta Maris Resort
Discover the jewels of Crete
weddings & honeymoons SAY I DO IN THE HOME OF APHRODITE
AS LEGEND states it is the birthplace of the goddess Aphrodite, the island of Cyprus is no stranger to love in all forms, making it a top contender for those looking to tie the knot in paradise. Planet Weddings has expanded it Cypriot offerings, giving agents more choice to marry up their clients with
IF A honeymoon to the Maldives wasn’t opulent enough, Sun Siyam Olhuveli has introduced a new couple’s spa indulgence package full of new treatments to help newlyweds reset after the big day.
The new packages include ‘Pure Elements’ from $399 per couple which combines hydrotherapy with traditional massages and scrubs, and ‘Chocolate Delight’ which takes sweethearts on a 135-minute journey complete with a fullbody chocolate massage and chocolate bath from $300 per couple. www.sunsiyam.com
their dream ceremony.
For those who want to start their future together by stepping into the past, Planet Weddings has recently introduced Paliomonastiro to its venue portfolio: an old monastery located just outside of Paphos. The venue offers three different settings to say ‘I do’ to, including The Waterfall for couples who wish to surround themselves with nature; the Ayia Paraskevi church located at the top of the botanical gardens; and The Deck which can cater for both ceremonies and receptions for up to 200 guests.
Couples who wish for a little more myth and mystery to zest up their day will enjoy exchanging vows at the Baths
Magical marriages in Malaysia
of Aphrodite. A raised platform overlooks the area where couples can say their vows and begin their married life in the most romantic setting.
The Sunrise Beach Hotel offers a more traditional ceremony against the golden backdrop of the eastern coastline. A wedding day would begin under the open skies on the outdoor terrace, or instead choose to say ‘I do’ in a more intimate fashion on the Sea View Wedding Room. The newlyweds will receive a complimentary candlelit dinner, a champagne breakfast in bed room upgrades and a surprise gift from the hotel.
www.planetweddings.co.uk
YTL HOTELS offers a timeless portfolio of wedding venues throughout Malaysia which promise to make all ceremonies unforgettable, whether a couple is looking for a more chic affair on the white shores at sunset or prefer a wedding steeped in grandeur in the heart of a UNESCO World Heritage city. www.ytlhotels.com
Planet Weddings expands venue offerings on the Island of Love.
Sun Siyam introduces moments of romance
PRIVATE ISLAND resort Sirru Fen
Fushi is inviting couples to step out of their comfort zone with its new ‘Wild at Heart’ offering. Blending archipelago adventures with rejuvenating treatments, couples can enjoy the best of both worlds on their Maldivian honeymoon. Couples can choose from water-based excursions to enjoying the celestial beauty of the skies before heading to the world-renowned Arufen Spa for a multi-sensory journey tailored for each guest. www.sirrufenfushi.com
RENOWNED FOR its bespoke romantic experiences, the Thai beachfront retreat of Amari Koh
Samui has been announced as a finalist in the United Kingdom Weddings & Honeymoons Awards 2025. The resort offers a variety of accommodations, each boasting stunning garden, pool and ocean views, and an array of curated activities perfect to make any honeymoon an unforgettable adventure. www.amari.com
One happy bride, one happy island
THE PROMISE of year-round sunshine and an atmosphere steeped in romance makes Aruba a perfect choice for couples wanting to tie the knot or spend their honeymoon under the Caribbean skies. Following the legalisation of same-sex marriages in July last year, the island now welcomes everyone to soak up the sun and spend time with their loved one.
While an idyllic choice for the big day, it is the annual ‘I Do Festival’ which really sets this destination apart as every August couples from all over the world flock to the beach to take part in the Caribbean’s
largest vow renewal ceremony to celebrate their love.
There are plenty of luxury escapes awaiting couples looking to spend their honeymoon on the island. The new five-star adults-only Iberostar Grand Aruba resort opened its doors in December 2024 on Eagle Beach allowing guests prime access to the crystal-clear waters. Boasting 240 suites, with a jacuzzi available for every room, the property offers a luxury retreat in paradise. Aruba Ocean Villas also offer an exclusive adults-only overwater retreat allowing newlyweds to unwind over the waves.
Romance on the wild side
OVER THE last few years the wedding industry has witnessed a slight change in demand for the type of honeymoon couples are gravitating towards. There has been a significant rise in interest towards more experience-led romantic getaways as opposed to the industry standard luxury options.
Safari Specialist Acacia Africa are meeting the growing trend head on with its offering of upscale safaris for couples wanting to start their marriage off a little differently.
One of Acacia Africa’s top itineraries is the 10-day ‘Serengeti to Zanzibar Adventure Camping Tour’ which promises newlyweds a seamless blend of thrilling game drives in the Serengeti National park and the Ngorongoro Crater with a romantic island getaway on Zanzibar’s shores. Couples have the chance to experience the once-in-alifetime sunset which sets the sky ablaze over the Ngorongoro Crater.
Prices lead in from £2,165 per person, and guests have the option to add an Adventure Pass from £680 per person.
The tour includes nine-nights’ accommodation (six nights in a two-person dome tent and three nights in a hotel), most meals, transport and the services of a tour leader and driver. Departures are scheduled year-round. www.acacia-africa.com
Amari Koh Samui sets the wedding bar
Credit s Top and Bottom: Canva Pro, Top Left: Sirru Fen Fushi, Bottom Left: Amari
Blending adventure with romance
Exploration & Adventure OFF THE BEATEN TRACKS
Explore Worldwide has partnered with Rail International to craft flight-free itineraries for travellers looking to ditch flight air travel.
WITH THIS year marking the 200th anniversary of the first passenger train journey, Explore Worldwide is hoping to keep on track with those guests looking to swap the terminal for the tracks and ditch travelling by plane on their bucketlist adventures.
A new partnership with International Rail will offer tailored quotes on European packages featuring one or several of the rail operator’s 66,000-plus routes across the continent.
Explore Worldwide’s sustainability specialist, Hannah Methven, believes the wider choice of travel options “hope[s] to help more of our customers to embrace slow, scenic journeys while
reducing their carbon footprint.”
Along with bespoke quotes, agents can get assistance on planning the best routes to reach each respective tour’s departure point.
More than three dozen tours are accessible via rail in the inaugural ‘Explore by rail’ range; Hannah added that the operator “hope[s] to help more of our customers to embrace slow, scenic journeys while reducing their carbon footprint” moving forward.
Among the more than 36 inaugural rail tours is the 11-day Highlights of Albania itinerary. Guests will explore one of Europe’s trendiest destinations by rail, cable car and foot with trips to
Bangkok return fares for less than £300
THIS WINTER, no-frills-attached Norse Atlantic will begin a service from London Gatwick to Bangkok, with return fares from £295.
The service will operate up to four times weekly from October 26th, 2025. It marks Norse Atlantic's first service to Asia from its Gatwick hub. www.flynorse.com
Mount Datji, walking tours of Berat and Durresi, and ancient adventures to Butrint and Apollonia.
Other rail-accessible options include trekking tours of Spain, wanders across Greek Islands and an agriturismo adventure along the Amalfi Coast. www.explore.co.uk
Daytrip expands roster with day trip options
DAYTRIP IS expanding its commissionable one-way and return transfer model, which blend A to B transfers with sightseeing opportunities and local guidance, to offer dedicated sightseeing daytrips in over 200 destinations.
The new range promises the sightseeing opportunities and local expertise of its existing city-to-city and airport transfer options but with the same departure and end points.
Agents can now book the commissionable or discountable trips via the Daytrip trade platform. www.daytrip.com
Not in the Guidebooks introduces new Lapland trio
A TRIO of three- and four-night packages have enhanced Not in the Guidebooks’ existing trade-exclusive Lapland range.
Each option promises the sustainable spirit and ethos the brand has carved out for itself, along with its "immersive, off-the-beaten-track" approach, according to sales director Debbie Sowden.
"Our Lapland portfolio now offers a truly extensive range, ensuring that whatever our clients want from their Arctic experience, we can deliver it... this expansion also comes at a crucial time as we're seeing unprecedented interest from UK travellers seeking premium Lapland experiences."
The packages feature new
experiences and accommodation options, including the Lakeside Aamu-Suites.
"All the new experiences masterfully balance luxury with authenticity, and feature premium accommodation, gourmet dining experiences and exceptional wellness facilities.” www.notintheguidebooks.com
Tree-planting project celebrates Just You’s 25th
SOLO OPERATOR Just You is celebrating a quarter of a century in business by committing to plant 25,000 trees at reforestation projects across the globe. The operator’s non-profit partner, Planeterra, works directly with organisations at each project to ensure the programme is both “inclusive and participatory” according to MD Adam Kemp. All trade bookings during peaks included a dedicated tree in the project: progress can be tracked www.justyou.co.uk/about-us/celebrating-25-years-of-growth-planting-withpurpose/
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