Selling Travel November/December 2024

Make Marrakech Your Home for the Holidays

Experience the magic of Morocco this holiday season at the Royal Mansour Marrakech—an iconic destination within the Royal Mansour Collection, which also includes Royal Mansour Casablanca and the newly unveiled Royal Mansour Tamuda Bay.

Owned by the King of Morocco, Royal Mansour Marrakech beckons guests from far and wide with its twinkling five-star rating, luxurious royal treatment, and consistent golden standards. Celebrate in one of 53 exquisite riads, each with a private courtyard and plunge pool, and indulge at the Michelin-starred La Grande Table Marocaine, where the legendary lamb shoulder mechoui adds a fragrant flair to your festive feast. With serene gardens to stroll through and a prime location near the bustling Medina, a stay at the Royal Mansour Marrakech is a wonderful way to spoil yourself or someone special.

inside this issue

08 European City Breaks: Clients that swap tourist hotspots for lesser-known short-breaks will reap the rewards

14 Travel Talk: TUI's Accessibility goals Globe-Hopping

16 India: Combine top attractions with rural charm for a winning trip

20 Canary Islands: All winter sun favourites but what are the key USPs?

23 How to sell: Berlin

Be Inspired

24 Luxury Travel: Authentic experiences and privacy are leading the way

30 Luxury Maldives: Exclusivity and high-end resorts will impress luxloving clients

38 Top 10: Luxury African Lodges

EDITORIAL

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

Steve Hartridge

EDITOR

Jessica Alexander

DIGITAL EDITOR

April Waterston

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT

Sheena Adesilu

WRITERS

Donna Richardson, Julie Baxter, Jo Reeder, Stuart Forster, Tamara Hinson and Rowena Marella-Daw

PUBLISHING

PUBLISHERS

Steve Thompson steven.thompson@sellingtravel.co.uk

Sally Parker sally.parker@sellingtravel.co.uk

CIRCULATION MANAGER

Shani Kunar

MANAGING DIRECTOR

Matt Bonner

CEO

Martin Steady

DESIGN & PRODUCTION

DESIGNERS

Caitlan Francis, Colette Denham & Emma Norton

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR

Clare Hunter

PRODUCTION ADMINISTRATOR

Steve Hunter

COVER IMAGE

A romantic dinner on the sandbank at Baros, Maldives. Credit: Baros

Christmas miracles November/December

Jessica Alexander EDITOR

Writing the welcome for the last issue of the year often comes with much reflection over the last 12 months and a renewed excitement with the promise of a new year. For me, this is particularly pertinent as this will be my last issue before I head off on maternity leave, ready to welcome a new addition in December – if all goes to plan!

So while agents get ready for peaks and the hopeful rush of bookings that gloomy January brings, I will be very much in the trenches of new motherhood, but still dreaming about that first holiday as a family of three. Whilst holidays may look a bit different for a while (perhaps I won’t be trekking the Inca Trail or tracking lions on safari), I’m sure I will instead find thrills in the first swim in the sea and become an expert in creating shade where none exists – an adventure of a different kind.

It is therefore no surprise to me that the most recent ABTA Holiday Habits report indicated a year-on-year rise in Brits booking with a travel agent in 2024, with growth being particularly dramatic among families with young children. The report found that 55% of young families said they booked with a travel professional in the last 12 months, compared with 36% in 2019. A fresh appreciation of having the support of a travel expert when things go wrong, such as operational challenges or natural disasters, was a key factor in the findings.

Although I may be saying goodbye to luxury holidays for the foreseeable, Luxury Travel is booming with “Millennials and Gen Zers spending a higher share of their income on travel than their older counterparts” and “cutting all other expenses before they trim experiences.” This is great news for agents looking to get a boost from upselling. Read our Be Inspired Luxury Travel section for ideas on how to wow clients.

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WE ARE MEMBERS OF THE CARIBBEAN TOURISM ORGANIZATION, VISIT USA ASSOCIATION, LATA, PATA, MENATA, SATOA, THE FOREIGN AIRLINES ASSOCIATION AND THE INSTITUTE OF TRAVEL & TOURISM. WHILE EVERY EFFORT IS MADE TO ENSURE ACCURACY, BMI PUBLISHING LTD CANNOT BE HELD RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY ERRORS OR OMISSIONS.

We will also be touring the country in November to bring agents some high-end product as part of our Selling Travel Connect: Luxury events. We hope to see you in London and Manchester for these.

Wishing you all a wonderful Christmas and a prosperous New Year!

With this issue

Caribbean Guide

A complete tool to booking travel to the Caribbean, including planning weddings & honeymoons.

Selling Canada

With a focus on autumn in Canada, this guide will inspire itineraries around seasonal highlights.

Maha K umbh Mela, Prayagraj

ALL THAT GLITTERS

Marking Ritz-Carlton’s debut in Morocco, The Ritz-Carlton Rabat, Dar Es Salam, brings a touch of opulence to Morocco’s capital. The property offers 100 guestrooms and 17 suites all with a private terrace facing the pool and the gardens, including a 180 square-meter Royal Suite. Golfers will relish being steps away from the Royal Golf Dar Es Salam, whilst culture enthusiasts can enjoy a convenient base in Rabat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2012. The city is celebrated as the ‘cultural capital’ of the country. ritzcarlton.com/rabat

Kenya SOAK IN THE SCENERY

Hidden amongst the forest canopy, Mara Toto Tree Camp is the newest offering from Great Plains, located in Kenya’s Maasai Mara. The camp accommodates eight adults in four luxury tents, each overlooking the Ntiakitiak River. Described as “Tarzan meets Robinson Crusoe”, guests are eye level with rare melanistic bushbabies. Beyond the lodge the Maasai Mara National Reserve is home to big cats and the annual migration. Finish the day with a sundowner at the firepit. greatplainsconservation.com

Oregon

THOSE IN GLASS HOUSES

Tu Tu Tun Lodge in Oregon has opened 12 new Glass Cabins, featuring mirrored walls that reflect their verdant surroundings. For ample privacy, the cabins are spaced out throughout the grounds, with options of Mountain View Glass Cabins, Creekside Glass Cabins and River Front Cabins. Designed for two guests, each cube has its own bathroom, private patio with a personal fire pit and outdoor soaking tub. Guest experiences include fly fishing in the Rogue River, jet river boat tours and a visit to the creekside spa. tututun.com

8 / European City Breaks

Less is more

Short breaks in lesser-known European cities appear to be on the rise. Julie Baxter discovers why

Istep out into the sunshine and step back in time. The ancient city walls welcome me in and the winding cobblestone paths lead me gently from flower market to medieval church, merchant house to monastery ruins.

I am wandering one of Europe’s bestpreserved medieval cities. One minute I am rubbing shoulders with the ghost of Tsar Peter the Great at the impressive Kadriorg palace, the next boarding a submarine from a seafront that was once home to Tsarist, Russia’s most important submarine factory. I watch craftsmen at work in a trendy

artisan shopping area, and sun myself in the manicured parklands.

Tallinn, Estonia’s capital and Europe’s 2023 Green Capital effortlessly connects the historic and cultural dots of the Baltic region but it’s the restaurants which deliver the most surprising ‘wow’.

Estonia was the first Baltic nation to get the Michelin Guide attention with 30+ restaurants listed. All those I try serve fresh ingredients creatively combined by innovative chefs and perhaps ‘38’ best sums up the city on a plate. History echoes through its Old Town buildings now

reworked for a cool, fashionable vibe. Each dish is surprising, fresh and very photogenic and, just like the city itself, combines local elements with global influences to serve up a dish full of unexpected twists.

Market shifts

The recent rise in protests across Europe by local residents living in some of the world’s most popular destinations may well bring unexpected benefits for lesser-known city break destinations.

The protests raised awareness of how over-tourism can impact local people and

TALLIN, ESTONIA

while they were more an attack on the city bosses than the tourists, they have given travellers a new inclination to consider lesser-known destinations.

Such cities are standing by to shine, pushing themselves forward as undiscovered treasures and often offered with a far more competitive price-tag whether accessed by rail or air. Accommodation and living costs are broadly cheaper too.

This shift comes just as the short breaks market is bouncing back. Mintel research shows that while the cost of living crisis led many to prioritise summer holidays, 2024 has seen a return to more normal prepandemic bookings with short breaks firmly in demand. Here’s a few to consider...

Vilnius, Lithuania

Lithuania’s capital, Vilnius, celebrated its 700th anniversary last year and the resulting publicity is pushing it up the popularity charts. It is steeped in history and the medieval Old Town makes a picturesque base with baroque architecture, grand cathedral, castle and imposing Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania.

But the city also packs a punch when it comes to off-beat and quirky things to do. It has a vibrant contemporary scene and districts with a distinctly alternative vibe. Naujamestis, a new town area, has been listed among the coolest neighbourhoods in the world by Time Out magazine. And the Stotis District demands attention for large-scale graffiti, concept bars, glass palace music venue and contemporary MO Museum. Across the river, the bohemian, creative district, Užupis, describes itself as an unofficial ‘republic’ having declared independence on April’s Fool day in 1997. Here a thriving counter-culture sees galleries and art installations at every turn. Some 60% of the city is parks and gardens so exploring on foot or bike is easy.

Top tip: Vilnius International Airport is easily connected to the centre by bus and train or there are rail links with Krakow, Warsaw, Riga and Tallinn for twin-centre combinations. Baltic Travel Company offers three-night, four-star packages from £555pp. baltictravelcompany.com

Gdańsk, Poland

Poland is not short on capital cities.

Warsaw is its administrative capital; Krakow, is its former capital, known for its cultural and historical heritage, but lesserknown Gdańsk is the maritime capital, a vibrant port set on the Baltic coast.

Gdańsk is famously the place where World War II started as well as being the birthplace of the Solidarity Movement that brought an end to Communism in Poland. The city has been at the heart of world events and has incredible stories to tell.

A small, walkable city with dozens of bars and restaurants, Gdańsk has plenty of spires, cobbles and gothic architecture but also has green and wild places such as the Oliwa Park and the Sobieszewo district where the wide, sandy beach and seaside vibe can be combined with numerous nature trails.

City life is cheap especially with the Tourist Card for half-price attraction tickets. As part of an easily combined ‘tri-city’ with nearby Sopot and Gdynia it offers a hat-trick of city breaks in one.

Sell it: Gdańsk offers numerous Christmas

markets in December. Jet2holidays packages three nights from Manchester or Birmingham priced from £301 in a threestar central hotel. Jet2holidays.com

Lille, France

When Eurostar first launched its rail services between the UK and France 30 years ago, it was easy access to Paris that stole all the headlines but lesser-known Lille was also on that early departure board and remains something of an underdog well worthy of more attention today.

Less than an hour and a half away (by train) in the north of France, it combines French and Flemish heritage with a good mix of museums and art galleries, shopping at independent boutiques and markets, microbreweries, and restaurants piled with waffles or serving piping bowls of moules frites and tasty local stews.

The Grand Place and Old Town provide instant impact with distinctive red brick buildings, gothic churches, belfry viewing tower and historic grandeur, from where quieter districts beyond can be quickly discovered on foot.

The large shopping centre close to the Lille Europe station is a mecca for those stocking up on French goodies but wandering the city on a bargain hunt can also be rewarding whether in the trendy concept stores, stylish boutiques or covered food market, Les Halles de Wazemmes, which is crammed with smoked garlic, cheeses and regional sausages. On Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays this market is extended into the streets and its atmosphere is ramped up with live music and dancing, vintage stalls and street food galore. Sell it: Add a little luxury with three-nights at the historic Hermitage Gantois spa hotel

in a rail package from Kirker Holidays priced from £798pp kirkerholidays.com. Eurostar fares from £39 each way Eurostar.com

Rotterdam, Netherlands

While Amsterdam gets the star billing when it comes to Dutch city breaks, the Netherlands’ second city, Rotterdam, has much to recommend it as an alternative. Just as accessible, visitors can be pulling into its iconic station in three and a half hours from London on the Eurostar (30 minutes quicker than Amsterdam), and step out into a very different vibe.

The city is not much smaller than Amsterdam but has a much younger look and feel, having been rebuilt after heavy bombing during WWII. Its urban skyline is hallmarked with skyscrapers, the Erasmus suspension bridge and modern architecture, all set around an impressive harbour. A trip up the Euromast observation tower is a popular way to see it in its context at the heart of one of the largest ports in the world, and a boat tour around the harbour or an overnight on the tiny houseboats moored here makes for a unique stay.

A university city, there is a buzzing social scene in the Witte de Withstraat area and increasingly in Nieuwe Binnenweg, a fast developing trendy part of town. For something different the Fenix Food Factory is a food hall with its own craft brewery alongside many foodie stalls, or for something quirky suggest a visit to the Cube Houses and the Pinball Museum.

Sell it: easyjet Holidays packages three nights, in a three-star hotel out of Luton for £195pp departing December. easyjet.com Eurostar fares from £39 each way Eurostar.com •

GDANSK, POLAND

LILLE, FRANCE

VILNIUS, LITHUANIA

ROTTERDAM, NETHERLANDS

of service New class

From November 4, you’ll find three reinvented classes on board all our trains – Eurostar Standard, Eurostar Plus or Eurostar Premier.

Eurostar turns 30

We’re proud to be celebrating 30 years of connecting people across Europe this November. As we look to the future we have bold ambitions to carry more passengers every year and make Eurostar the go to choice for environmentally conscious international travellers.

A class act

Check out our three reinvented classes designed to offer customers more choice and better service...

Eurostar Standard: The fast and flexible way to travel from city to city in Europe.

Eurostar Plus: Relax in extra comfy seats with a light meal onboard or take advantage of more space to work.

Eurostar Premier: Our signature Eurostar experience for business and leisure passengers.

The Eurostar Premier dining experience

We’ve teamed up with some of Europe’s best chefs and sommeliers to create an

on-board fine dining experience which is better than ever. Our pioneering team of Eurostar Premier Head Chefs have designed a fresh menu centred around sustainable, responsibly-sourced ingredients with dishes that showcase the best of Europe and beyond. All served fresh by our warm and welcoming onboard team. Passengers can even enjoy a glass of bubbly specially curated by our Head Sommelier.

New Eurostar Premier Lounges

When visiting one of our exclusive Eurostar Premier Lounges, clients will experience top-class service. Try an original creation at our cocktail bars, find a favourite newspaper or magazine, or indulge in a canapé or two. The ideal environment for finishing work or starting a holiday in style.

Make every trip a pleasure with Eurostar Plus

Arrive refreshed, refuelled and relaxed with our new middle class, Eurostar Plus option. On routes to and from London, customers can enjoy a revamped food

and drink menu with a choice of two delicious dishes made up of locally-sourced, sustainable ingredients. Clients will also enjoy a range of hot and cold drinks, without the need to leave their seats.

The freedom to be flexible

Since April 23, all Eurostar tickets have been fully exchangeable and refundable (with a fee) for the first time ever.

For ultimate freedom, discover the added flexibility of Eurostar Premier, which now offers unlimited exchanges and free refunds until two days after departure. Travellers can also benefit from our boarding guarantee meaning if plans change last minute, we’ll guarantee travel on any other train on the day of departure at no extra charge.

For extra peace of mind, Eurostar Premier travellers have access to our priority ticket gates, extra luggage allowance and our exclusive lounges. Check out our dedicated agents website and discover all you need to know about our network, customer offer and working together at eurostarforagents.com •

With the competitive peaks period nearing, how can agents demonstrate the added value of a professional?

It’s been a period of price-matching for us, which has meant discounting flights quite heavily at times to remain competitive (we’ve all heard “I’ve seen it on BA.com”). We always explain to clients how we include an ATOL, and their money is 100% protected through our TTA membership, but that sometimes isn’t enough when there is a decent saving to be had online. Our clients are very loyal, and are happy to pay a bit extra for our service,

but we take the view it’s better to earn something and keep the client, than earn nothing, so will discount if necessary.

All we can do is reiterate our value to the client pre-travel, and also whilst they’re away, which is priceless when situations like the Jasper wildfires are happening more frequently. We try to get across the value of having a real person on the end of the phone to help you, plus our expertise in the planning stages. Saying that, I’ve spent the last four months working on a high-value Canada booking for it to fall through. Amazingly, despite not booking, they sent me a fee for all the work I did –that is rare. Hopefully they’ll be back with us for the next trip…we’ll see!

Anneka Desrosiers Southern Cross Travel, East Sussex

The High Street Agency

Using a travel agent/advisor is rather like buying insurance – you do not know the value until things go wrong and you need help!

A cheap insurance policy that does not pay out when a claim is made turns out to be an expensive waste of money – the same way that an agent who is not available or cannot offer any assistance when needed having sold the product is of little use.

An agent can add value to a booking

Agents add value by ensuring the product is right for the client

by making sure the product is right for the client (meets the client’s hopes, needs and expectations within a given budget) and then being there to offer help and assistance if plans go awry, for example: making sure that flights are rearranged, extending the car park booking for a later return, dealing with the operator to get suitable credit or compensation etc.

River cruising is prone to disruption due to high or low water levels. I make sure the client is aware of this, and that an operator has plans to deal with disruption if required and then ensure that the client is happy with any postcruise offer made as a result.

We add value to a booking by offering pre- and post-travel service!

James Hill Director of GoRiverCruise Worcestershire

We are expecting a busy January so are making plans now to spend our time efficiently during the peak booking time. It’s a balancing act between keeping existing loyal customers happy and also giving great service to new clients who have been recommended to contact us.

Our back office system has records of all bookings and past enquiries so we know how to filter new enquiries without spending too much time.

We prioritise repeat bookers as we know what they like

With repeat clients we will check past bookings so we know what they like and what to recommend next.

Some clients will only book if we match the direct website, so our stance is lets not waste time and just book it and move on. We have to quickly establish if they will come into the office or book over the phone. We make sure repeat clients are the priority which ensures that our appointments are worthwhile and cuts down on time wasters.

We also plan out window offers and office jobs so that weekly jobs are done efficiently without being too time consuming.

Time is key at this time of year, we are happy to give it – but not waste it!

Liz Beaty The Travel Team Brampton, Cumbria

Navigating clients through natural disasters – like the wildfires in Jasper and the hurricane in Florida – are true testament to the added value that travel agents offer.

My clients’ Canada trip was affected by the recent wildfires in Jasper and really appreciated me being on-hand through the night to ensure that it impacted their holiday as little as possible. I spent many sleepless nights rearranging hotels and

The value of an agent shines through when things go wrong

securing space on the rerouted Rocky Mountaineer train so that they were still able to enjoy their trip without too much worry and disruption.

I find it’s good to check in with clients on WhatsApp and just kept them in the loop, updating them on the situation. Due to the time difference this meant working three nights to ensure everything ran smoothly.

Some friends they met locally spent days replanning which cost them both time and money. This is when the value of a good agent shines through. It’s worth it when you get texts expressing how grateful your clients are and knowing that you provided an excellent service despite the challenges.

Kelly Stanley Proprietor Kelly’s Travel

The Cruise Specialist

TUI Talking with

TUI has introduced a series of initiatives to make it easier for customers with accessibility needs to search, book and enjoy their holidays, says Neil Swanson, the group’s new UK and Ireland Managing Director

Q: Why is TUI introducing accessibility initiatives?

A: We have one simple aim when it comes to accessibility: we want to make it easy for anyone to search for, book, and go on the holiday that’s right for them, whatever their needs. This is not only of course the right thing to do, but it also makes commercial sense. The number of disabled people in the UK and across the world is growing, the population is aging and the requirements of our customers change and evolve. We want to make sure we can carry on taking customers on holiday, even if their needs change in the future.

Q: Are you seeing that more of your customers have accessibility issues?

A: We have seen TUI Accessible Holidays bookings grow 125% since 2019 and 13% since 2023. The percentage of customers who have access needs as part of the total has grown 2% in 2024 alone.

Q: What about customers with unseen accessibility needs?

A: Accessibility at TUI includes all access needs, visible and non-visible disabilities, and neurodiversity. This year we’ve had a huge focus on neurodiversity. The Neurodiversity Colleague Network has driven a project to look at transforming TUI into a neuro -inclusive holiday provider. Our TUI stores now have neuro-friendly shopping, so customers can pre-book their appointments and we’ll ensure the environment suits their requirements, for example spaces with no music and at quieter times. We have trained over 5,000 colleagues in disability awareness, neurodiversity and general understanding of the ways customers with access needs

want to travel with us. We have also rolled out SignLive, instant British Sign Language interpretation services, across our contact centre and 230 TUI stores.

Q: What are the challenges for TUI to be fully-inclusive?

A: Accessibility at TUI is all about information: providing as much accurate and validated information to customers at the point of booking, so they can be reassured that the holiday they’re booking will meet their needs. Gathering this content for our extensive hotel portfolio is no easy task. We have partnered with AccessAble and it is creating hundreds of detailed access guides for our most popular hotels. We publish these on our website and customers can filter their search to show hotels that have this information. We also have adapted rooms bookable online. All of our Marella ships also have detailed access guides. But we don’t have control over all aspects of the journey. For example, a negative airport and airport assistance experience can sometimes impact the overall holiday.

Q: Which destinations cater well to accessible travel and why?

A: Spain has shown commitment to improving accessibility with its Spain For All campaign, starting with a taskforce and advisory panel and publishing Spain’s first ever Accessibility Findings Report. TUI is proud to have been involved in this endeavour. Over 40% of customers with access needs travel to Spain, including the Balearics and Canaries. Greece has also launched initiatives to welcome more visitors with access needs. A good example is its SEATRAC project (automated beach wheelchairs) which we advertise on our TUI Accessible Holidays Page. •

“Our

TUI stores now have neuro-friendly shopping, so customers can pre-book their appointments to ensure the environment suits their requirements”

ST. PETE-CLEARWATER

ARTS & CULTURE: Impressionist prestige can be found at the Dali Museum, where the largest collection of the artist’s work outside of Spain is housed (over 2,500 pieces and growing), which has garnered three-stars on the Michelin Guide! Fine art, Western history, Chihuly’s blown glass marvels, and more can be found in downtown St. Pete alone, which has turned the area into a hotspot for an alternative arts scene that spills into the streets with over 600 commissioned murals. St. Pete Pier even has a permanent art installation!

FOOD PARADISE: Seasoned foodies will find a culinary adventure along each avenue in St. Pete-Clearwater. Try Central Avenue, a 30-block-long street dedicated to the independent food scene that can be found in-destination. In one day visitors can taste the Med, East Asian delights, and fresh catches of the day straight off the Gulf. Try a ‘Grouper Sandwich’ at Frenchy’s on Clearwater Beach – it’s a popular spot for a reason!

NATURAL WONDERS: With a yearly average of 361 days of sun, visitors have the luxury of being able to plan a trip at any time of year. Whether it’s adrenaline seekers looking for kitesurfing, or those wanting to take it slow with paddleboard yoga, there is something to suit. We recommend trying glass-bottomed kayaking around untouched islands in the north, or getting on the water to meet our playful dolphins.

BLISSFUL BEACHES: St. Pete-Clearwater is home to 35 miles of award-winning white-sand beaches that meet the warm and calm Gulf Coast waters. St. Pete Beach was even named the World’s #5 Beach in TripAdvisor’s Traveller’s Choice Awards! Beach lovers will feel at home on Clearwater Beach, sun-seekers love the chilled vibe on Pass-A-Grille, nature enthusiasts flock to Caladesi Island, and those wanting small town charm stop off at Indian Rocks Beach. Drive in any direction along this picturesque coastline and find a beach to suit, kept spotlessly clean by monthly clean-ups by the ‘Keep Pinellas Beautiful’ Ocean Allies.

An Indian odyssey

At a time when new flight routes are making India more accessible, Tamara Hinson recommends combining visits to its big hitters with explorations of its more remote destinations

It’s late afternoon in Madya Pradesh’s Bandhavgarh National Park, and I’m watching an enormous tiger slink along the edge of a stream

He pauses to sniff the air before lazily hunkering down near the base of an ancient teak tree. It’s so quiet I can hear the big cat breathing. It’s a very different experience to safaris I’ve done in Africa, where my Jeep has been one of several jostling for space near a nervous-looking elephant or lion.

In Bandhavgarh – and in many Indian national parks – things are done differently. Radios are banned, so guides rely on their tracking skills, although wildlife isn’t exactly a rarity, and tigers have put in appearances on every safari I’ve done in India.

Its national parks are also becoming more popular, and with good reason. In 2024 the tiger-filled Pench National Park became India’s first Dark Sky Park, and the luxurious Oberoi Rajgarh Palace, which will be just eight kilometres from Madhya Pradesh’s tiger-filled Panna National Park, is scheduled to open by the end of this year.

But wildlife is just one of many reasons to head to India. Its monuments are another huge draw, and not just in places such as Jaipur, but Delhi, possibly India’s most underrated city. Highlights here include architectural marvels such as the Agrasen ki Baoli stepwell, a short hop from the magnificent Humayun’s Tomb, built 60 years before the Taj Mahal.

And then there’s its food scene. Earlier this year, legal wranglings between two Delhi restaurants, both founded by owners fighting for the right to claim they invented butter chicken, serve as a reminder of Delhi’s culinary delights.

Getting off grid

The sheer size of India, which covers 3.287 million km², means that sitting still isn’t an option. Perhaps unsurprisingly, operators are reporting that clients are increasingly choosing trips which reflect the range of experiences on offer here.

“Exodus Adventure Travels has seen a surge in interest in multi-destination India

“Last year, Jaipur was the most popular destination for foreign tourists, closely followed by Varanasi” Navdeep Thakurdas, Wendy Wu

tours combining city visits and explorations of rural regions,” says Sarah Puttnam, Asia product manager at Exodus. “Four out of five of our best-selling India trips for this year were multi-centre departures.”

The Golden Triangle route, which combines Delhi, Agra and Jaipur, remains incredibly popular – not only because it features India’s most famous landmarks, but because of the ease with which explorations of other areas can be added.

“For first time visitors, the Golden Triangle has always been the classic itinerary,” says Neil Sealy, India expert and Managing Director of Exoticca. “It’s got India’s most iconic sights - Old Delhi’s bustling alleys, Rajasthan’s forts and the Taj Mahal – and can be easily combined with the holy city of Varanasi or wildlife-filled Ranthambore.”

The lure of India’s oldest cities remains strong. “Last year, Jaipur was the most popular destination for foreign tourists, closely followed by Varanasi, solidifying their statuses as central to India’s appeal,” says Navdeep Thakurdas, an India-based guide at Wendy Wu Tours.

Getting to a handful of lesser-known destinations has, however, become easier

this year thanks to a codeshare agreement between British Airways and IndiGo, India’s largest airline. The new partnership covers eight Indian destinations, which can be reached from London Heathrow via Mumbai or Delhi. These include Thiruvananthapuram (Kerala’s capital) and the Gujarati cities of Rajkot and Vadodara. Meanwhile, Virgin Atlantic’s new Heathrow to Bangalore route, which launched in March 2024, is putting India’s so-called garden city on the map, although Bangalore is also famous for its craft beer scene.

What’s new?

New openings: In recent years, India’s wildlife – particularly its big cats – has taken centre stage. 2023 marked 50 years since the launch of Project Tiger, a governmentrun conservation project which transformed tigers’ fortunes. New properties either in or close to national parks include the aformentioned Oberoi Rajgarh Palace, and a new Ramada by Wyndham Jim Corbett Belpadao, which will open in Uttarakhand’s Jim Corbett National Park in 2025.

New tours: The Experience Travel Group recently launched a 15-day Regal Residences of Rajasthan itinerary which takes in Golden Triangle highlights and includes stays in lesser-known properties, such as Chambal Safari Lodge on the banks of the Chambal River and the Palace of Shahpura Bagh, located between Jaipur and Udaipur. Tours are priced from £3,950pp. experiencetravelgroup.com

Clients keen to cover multiple destinations will love G Adventures’ new Northern India: Riverside Safaris, Ancient Fortresses &

JAISALMER FORT

TEA CEREMONY, JAIPUR

“Exodus has seen a surge in interest in multidestination India tours combining city visits and explorations of rural regions”

Sarah Puttnam, Exodus

the Taj Mahal itinerary, which starts in Delhi, finishes in Mumbai and includes a river safari in Dholpur, a stargazing session in Jaipur and a visit to Udaipur, known as India’s city of lakes. Priced from £3,149pp gadventures.com

Set sail: Asian river cruise specialist Pandaw has announced details of a new ship and itinerary that will launch on the Kerala Backwaters in October 2025. The 10-cabin Kochi Pandaw will operate a seven-night round-trip itinerary from Kochi visiting the main towns and remoter areas of the backwaters with its 900km of connecting waterways, including Thanneermukkom, Nattakam, Kavalam, Allapuzha, Thottapalli and Perumpalam. fredholidays.co.uk

New flights: In October the Goa Experience partnered with Air India to offer new direct flights from London Gatwick to Goa. Flights operate Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays until April.

Air India also launched non-stop services between Bengaluru and London Gatwick in August.

Virgin Atlantic has expanded its flights to India by introducing a second daily service between Heathrow and Mumbai, as well as

double-daily flights to Delhi and a recently launched service to Bengaluru.

Etihad Airways has rolled out flights from London to Jaipur. Travellers will stop over in Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport.

Ultimate experiences in India

Tiger time: spot big cats in Panna National Park: Madhya Pradesh’s Pench National Park recently became India’s first Dark Sky Park. Its most popular properties include Baghvan, Taj Safari and Pench Jungle Camp. Guests who stay at Baghvan, Taj Safari, can opt for lakeside picnics and visits to local villages plus tiger-spotting safaris. pannatigerreserve.in Calling all foodies: book a street food tour: Visitors to India are often nervous about diving into its food scene, which is why a street food tour is a great way to sample its tastiest dishes. G Adventures’ half day Culinary Delights of India is a brilliant option for anyone keen to take a deep dive into its food scene. From £38pp. gadventures.com

Embrace pedal power: saddle up in Goa: A bike tour is a fantastic way to discover Goa’s off-thebeaten-path locations. The e-bike tour offered by Goa-based B:live takes in some of Goa’s oldest villages and Divar Island, which has the stunning Our Lady of

Piety Church, founded in the 1500s. tours.blive.co.in

Take a spiritual journey in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh: Located in Northern India, Uttar Pradesh is described as the most cultural state of India. Those looking to be spiritually enlightened will enjoy visiting Ayodhya, said to be the birthplace of Lord Rama, one of the most popular Hindu deities and the symbol of reason and doing the right thing. Visit the hidden gem of Treta Ke Thakur, an underground temple that is said to be older than the city itself and marvel at the stunning architecture of Kanak Bhavan. auptourism.gov.in

Take to the tracks: All aboard The Maharajahs’ Express: Described as India’s answer to the Orient Express, this 16-day tour includes visits to Delhi, Jaipur and Shimla. The trip concludes with a no-expense-spared eight-day journey on the opulent Maharajah’s Express. greatrail.com

Where

to book it:

WENDY

WU TOURS

Cities on Wendy Wu Tours’ 29-day Grand Tour of India include Delhi, Varanasi and Agra, while visits to Ranthambore and Kerala provide plenty of opportunities for some R&R. Priced from £7,090pp including flights. wendywutours.co.uk •

TAJ MAHAL

TAMARA HINSON

BARA IMAMBARA

AGRASEN KI BAOLI STEPWELL

BANDHAVGARH NATIONAL PARK

Escorted tours of the

USA

The USA is home to some of the world’s most iconic road trips. Visiting as part of an escorted tour enables clients to sit back and enjoy the ride, says Jessica Alexander

National Parks

Home to thundering waterfalls, vast canyons and epic viewpoints, the USA’s National Parks are unrivaled. Titan squeezes seven parks into an 18-day Awe-Inspiring National Parks tour that travels through the American West. From Colorado through to the open landscapes of Arizona, Utah, Wyoming and South Dakota, highlights include Yellowstone, Arches and Grand Canyon. titantravel.co.uk

Wild West Cowboys

Families can live out a horseback adventure with Trafalgar’s USA Family Tour from Salt Lake City to Rapid City. Visitors will explore Cody, the town founded by Buffalo Bill, watch Old Faithful put on a show in Yellowstone, see bison in South Dakota’s Badlands and explore Mount Rushmore. The tour also includes an insight into Montana’s Indigenous culture at the historic Billings Depot. trafalgar.com

History and heritage

Experience the birthplace of America through pivotal sites on an eight-day Historic Highlights tour with First Class Holidays. Start in the political heart, Washington D.C., then take in the iconic Capitol Hill in Philadelphia, before visiting Williamsburg, Jamestown, Charlottesville and Gettysburg. Witness the legacy of the nation’s Founding Fathers and visit the ‘corridors of power’ inside the White House. fcholidays.com

Fall colours

Every autumn New England puts on a spectacular display with its changing colours. American Holidays captures the best of this seasonal highlight on a nine-day Fall Colours of New England tour, which stops in Boston, Cape Cod and Vermont, visiting the Green Mountain National Forest. A highlight is the fall colours excursion to the White Mountains and the viewpoints of Mount Washington.  americanholidays.com

Music trail

Retrace the steps of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll himself as part of Newmarket Holidays’ 14-day Memphis, Nashville & Elvis Presley’s Gulf Coast Beach Retreat  tour that starts at the Chattanooga ChooChoo Hotel before diving into Nashville’s country music scene. In Memphis, visit Graceland and the music bars of Beale Street and enjoy a steamboat jazz cruise in New Orleans, finishing with a retreat in Ocean Springs. newmarketholidays.co.uk

Route 66

The most famous of all drives, Route 66 tops many a bucket list. Titan’s 17-day Route 66 tour travels from Chicago to LA through America’s heartland. The group will take in Oklahoma, St Louis, Amarillo and Albuquerque, plus the Grand Canyon and Petrified Forest national parks, stopping at quirky attractions along the way. Covering ‘more than two thousand miles all the way’, it’s perfect for fans of Retro Americana. titantravel.co.uk

Islands in the stream

Stuart

Forster explores the Canary Islands,

a favourite for beach holidays, and finds they have much more to offer than just sun, sea and sand

Awinter sun favourite just fourand-a-half hours’ flight time from the UK, The Canary Islands continue to draw in visitors looking for a balmy break without the hassle of a long-haul flight. Yet, with multiple islands to choose from, deciding where to book clients who don’t just want to just fly-and-flop can be tricky.

Understanding what else each of the Canaries’ main islands offer and matching them with clients’ interests and budgets is key to selling a truly memorable holiday, surpassing expectations.

Clear identity

José Juan Lorenzo, Managing Director of the Canary Islands Tourism Board (CITB), says the destination is committed to attracting high-value clients who are sensitive to the fragility of its natural resources and aware of the need to preserve local identity.

“To achieve this we make a special effort to target audiences particularly motivated by nature, active tourism, watersports

and sailing, cultural heritage, professional athletes and the LGBTIQA+ segment.”

The springtime demonstrations against overtourism should not result in holidaymakers feeling unwelcome, he explains, stressing that the organisers are not against tourists but want a sustainable tourism model that respects the islands’ cultural and natural heritage.

Efforts are being made to enhance the impact of tourism activities across the value chain of the islands’ economy.

The CITB is also taking steps to renew the image of the islands as a “mature destination”, rather than as a place for cheap, boozy holidays.

Increasingly, local identity is being leveraged to promote the islands and provide differentiation from other sunshine destinations.

Island adventures

With a combination of volcanic landscapes, forest trails, star gazing and watersports, the Canary Islands appeals to those with an appetite for adventure.

Fuerteventura has the edge, offering bouldering and sport climbing. As with the other islands, boat tours are a great way of viewing the coastline as well as marine life – including dolphins, finback and pilot whales – inhabiting local waters.

Mount Teide dominates central Tenerife and cycling towards Spain’s highest peak presents keen cyclists an opportunity to pedal on the challenging terrain where professional teams train.

Anaga Rural Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, is rated highly by walkers, with the Sendero de los Sentidos (Trail of the Senses) offering hiking routes suitable for varying levels of difficulty.

Jeep safaris and guided self-drive buggy tours are thrilling ways to view the arid beauty of Timanfaya National Park and the La Geria wine region in Lanzarote.

Offroad tours are also available in Gran Canaria, which also has a broad choice of watersports, including jet skiing, kayaking and surfing. Lessons are available for beginners, meaning that holidaymakers can indulge in learning a new skill.

Book it: Kuoni features Fuerteventura’s adults-only Secrets Bahia Real Resort and Spa, priced from £993pp, where windsurfing and kayaking are available as extras. kuoni.co.uk

Value for money

The volume of flights from the UK and total number of hotel beds across the Canary Islands are factors in the destination offering good value, particularly when holidaymakers travel outside of school holidays.

Benefiting from a sub-tropical climate, warm temperatures throughout the year make the islands ideal for people seeking breaks in what are typically regarded as shoulder seasons.

“British tourism in Gran Canaria has no seasonality, with similar numbers in winter and summer season,” says Katerina Bomshtein, Destination Manager for Gran Canaria Tourist Board in the UK and Ireland, who explains that high satisfaction among holidaymakers results in a high rate of people returning; increasing visitor

numbers and expenditure year-on-year.

Nonetheless, Gran Canaria is arguably the best value island, partly because of the variety of offerings accessible from boutique hotels in the old quarter of Las Palmas and accommodation near the golden sand of Las Canteras Beach.

“This is a perfect base to explore picturesque towns and villages, swim in the volcanic natural pools, visit gastronomic markets, wineries, coffee and banana plantations, a rum distillery and much more,” explains Bomshtein.

Top Tip: A trip that starts in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria and moves to the south can include accommodation in cave hotels, several golf courses and spa hotels, plus six Michelin-starred restaurants where clients can treat themselves without breaking the bank.

Splashing out

Dimple Melwani, Tenerife Tourism Corporation’s CEO, says: “The island’s luxury offering is expanding, with more than 30 five-star hotels and seven

“We are committed to attracting high-value clients who are sensitive to the fragility of our natural resources and aware of the need to preserve local identity”

José Juan Lorenzo, Canary Islands Tourism Board

(CITB)

LAVA BEACH, LANZAROTE

CATHEDRAL SANTA ANA VEGUETA, GRAN CANARIA

GARAJONAY NATIONAL PARK, LA GOMERA

STAR GAZING ON MOUNT TEIDE, TENERIFE

TIMANFAYA NATIONAL PARK, LANZAROTE

Michelin-starred restaurants right now.”

Travellers have a broad choice of upscale accommodation. Options include boutique properties, new offerings such as villas of the Royal Hideaway Corales Suites, soon-to-open Gran Hotel Taoro, re-openings including the Sir Anthony Hotel and nearby Hotel Mediterranean Palace, plus adult-only hotels such as the Hacienda del Conde, a member of the Meliá Collection.

Puerto Calero, in Lanzarote, is renowned for its marina with luxury yachts, boutique shopping plus chic bars and restaurants. The Hotel Fariones and La isla y el mar Hotel Boutique are just two of the nearby five-star hotels that attract travellers looking for a touch of luxury.

Book It: Kenwood Travel offers five nights at the five-star adult-only Royal River Tenerife, on a B&B basis, from £1,641pp. kenwoodtravel.co.uk

Cultural fit

Travellers are increasingly looking for unique and authentic experiences offering touchpoints with the culture and heritage of destinations. There’s much to offer in

that respect across the Canary Islands thanks to the many traditional villages, festivals and local dining options.

Santa Cruz de Tenerife hosts Europe’s largest Carnival festivities, so Tenerife lays claim to being the best destination in the Canary Islands for culture. Featuring music, colourful parades and dancing on the streets, the 2025 Carnival begins on February 28 and concludes on March 9, peaking on Shrove Tuesday.

Elsewhere, Arrecife in Lanzarote, Maspalomas in Gran Canaria and Puerto del Rosario in Fuerteventura host noteworthy festivities during Carnival.

Fuerteventura also stands out because of the charms of the beautiful small town of Betancuria. Founded early in the 15th century, it has white-walled houses and an insightful archaeology and ethnology museum worth visiting.

Top Tip: Classical music fans can combine a winter sunshine holiday with attending concerts by some of Europe’s leading orchestras and soloists.

In 2025, the Canary Islands International Music Festival – the Canaries’ only winter festival – will be held at venues across the

islands between January 10 and February 16. festivaldecanarias.com

The other islands

The smaller populated landmasses in the Canary Islands are not to be overlooked. La Palma is often described as ‘the steepest island in the world’ and has a lush landscape that makes it a hit with hikers and active types.

This year Inntravel introduced a Volcanic Trails walking holiday that, in the company of a guide, explores Tajogaite, the new volcano formed during an eruption in 2021, and the lava flows of the Aridane Valley. Also mountainous, La Gomera also offers challenging hiking with the forest of Garajonay National Park – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – offering trails through ancient forest dominated by laurel trees. Typical of the Canaries, it also has gorgeous beaches with sand varying in colour from golden to volcanic black.

El Hierro, the westernmost populated island, is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, while La Graciosa, which can be reached by ferry from Lanzarote, has a coastline dotted with picturesque coves. •

FISHING BOATS IN LANZAROTE

LAS PALMAS CARNIVAL

SANTA CRUZ, TENERIFE

Two sides to

Berlin

Germany’s dynamic and cosmopolitan capital is ever-evolving, ensuring that both first-time and returning visitors have much to explore, says Stuart Forster

Why sell it

Berlin has a serious and fun-loving side, with visitors able to tap into both during a stay.

This year, Germany’s capital celebrates 35 years since the fall of the Berlin Wall with a series of ceremonies, exhibitions and openair events planned in the city on and around November 9.

A winter visit also times well with Christmas festivities, when the city puts on a twinkling display with a Christmas market in each of Berlin’s districts.

A broad choice of attractively-priced hotels is also a factor in Berlin’s strong appeal as a city break destination.

How to sell

The city is less than two hours’ flight from UK airports, making it ideal as a long weekend city break destination. Train travel is also possible, starting on the Eurostar and continuing with the European Sleeper from Brussels or ICE connections.

Each of Berlin’s 12 districts is a hub for local life but travelling between them, and to top attractions, is easy thanks to a wellconnected public transport network that includes Berlin Brandenburg Airport.

Buying 24-hour tickets is good value, or visitors can invest in a Berlin WelcomeCard, valid between 48 hours and six days.

What to sell

Following a tumultuous 20th century, several museums unpick aspects of

German history. Thought-provoking, the Topography of Terror and Stasi Museum focus on repressing opponents, while the DDR Museum gives insights into life east of the Iron Curtain. The Berlin Wall Memorial conveys details of the infamous barrier. Like the East Side Gallery, which has colourful murals, it has original panels.

And in a city associated with espionage, the German Spy Museum is both informative and fun. Visitors here can experience decrypting code and navigating a corridor crisscrossed with laser beams.

Fans of Bridgerton may appreciate the grand palaces at Charlottenburg, in the heart of Berlin, and Sanssouci, in nearby Potsdam.

Who to sell to

Sport and history enthusiasts are likely to appreciate touring the Berlin Olympiastadion, the stadium of the 1936 Olympics. A host venue of the UEFA EURO 2024 football tournament, it’s home to Hertha BSC, who play in Germany’s second tier. Bundesliga club 1 FC Union Berlin plays at the atmospheric Stadion An der Alten Försterei.

For foodies, Berlin’s diverse dining

scene has options across price points, with Currywurst – including vegetarian alternatives – a popular and affordable snack. Vegan options abound and there’s a broad choice of cuisines, with Korean food in vogue.

Conducted at an easy pace, guided Fork and Walk Tours offer themed insights into Berlin’s culinary heritage. Held in the Prenzlauer Berg district, the Trends and Classics Food Tour is a bestseller.

What’s new

Recent openings include the Humboldt Forum on Museum Island, the interactive, family-friendly Deutschlandmuseum at Leipziger Platz and Fotografiska – a photography, art and cultural hub with a fine-dining restaurant, Veronika, café and rooftop Bar Clara. •

Book it with...easyJet holidays easyJet holidays offers a three-night break to Berlin from £190pp, including return flights from Manchester and a stay at the four-star Leonardo Royal Hotel Berlin Alexanderplatz. easyjet.com

CHRISTMAS MARKETS IN BERLIN

Luxury reimagined

Luxury travel is an ever-changing concept. Now, more than ever, it is transcending materialism as we recalibrate what is truly enriching, Rowena Marella-Daw reports

The one constant in life is its unpredictability. It’s therefore no surprise that more and more people – from Baby Boomers to Zoomers (Gen Z) – are eager to live life to the fullest, whatever the cost. And while expecting a lot more value for their money, in the process they are redefining the paradigm of ‘luxury travel’. Luxury travel advisors have been witnessing a shift in priorities, preferences and expectations from clients, including young affluent travellers. The McKinsey & Company’s ‘What is the Future of Travel’ survey reveals that “Millennials and Gen Zers are travelling more and spending a higher share of their income on travel than their older counterparts” and “will cut all other expenses before they trim experiences”. Reassuringly, Gen Z’s “are also a generation that cares deeply about the impact their actions have on the environment and are willing to adapt their behaviour accordingly,” reveals Advantage Travel Partnership’s Jetsetting Into Tomorrow survey. As a result,

luxury travel has evolved to go beyond five-star opulence, and instead focus on authentic encounters.

This time it’s personal

As mass tourism continues to overwhelm popular and culturally iconic tourist destinations, the word ‘privacy’ has become the holy grail in luxury travel. Rental of villas and high-end residences with dedicated staff, private jet and yacht charters have become far more desirable alternatives for those seeking exclusivity.

And when it comes to cruising, quality, not quantity, makes all the difference. “The ultraluxury cruise sector is booming, with luxury brands targeting the younger ‘cruise-curious’ traveller”, says Simon Lynch, Global Product & Strategy Director at Scott Dunn. “We’re prioritising the best in class - notably Ponant, Explora, Scenic and Silversea. In doing this, we’re taking away the sector’s overwhelming choice, skipping ‘group activities’ in exchange for totally exclusive experiences at each port.” Bespoke service is also high on the

agenda of discerning clients. “Today’s luxury traveller places equal emphasis on the overall [cruise] experience – pre- and post-departure customer service, carefully selected destinations, and the activities available upon arrival,” Lynch adds.

Looking for the exceptional Gastronomy-inspired indulgence is not confined to Michelin-star cuisine. Maverick foodies have a big appetite for exploring local food and learning about their provenance. “Many travellers choose destinations based on their culinary offerings, from learning to cook traditional dishes with local chefs, exploring vineyards and tasting regional wines in Instagrammable locations, to Agritourism— farm-to-table experiences where you can visit farms and indulge in cuisine made with fresh, local produce,” says Andrew Duncan, Global Ambassador at Oliver’s Travels.

According to Ludo Bennett-Jones, CEO & Founder of Love to Explore, “Younger clients are more experience-driven

GASTRONOMY EXPERIENCES ARE IN

LUXURY YACHT EXPERIENCE WITH SCENIC ECLIPSE

VOGUE

MADAGASCAR SAFARI EXPERIENCE

than price-sensitive. They aim to fulfil bucket list experiences.” Tour operators and travel agents working together to create an exceptional itinerary that, in Ludo’s words, “no one can make online makes it truly personal and is the reason clients will continue to book with experts.” And while AI is already here, Virtuoso Chairman and CEO Matthew D Upchurch, believes that it can be a helpful tool for agents, saying “Our philosophy on technology remains: automate the predictable, so that we can humanise the exceptional.”

Health is wealth

Health tourism is showing no signs of slowing down and agents can offer a health MOT as part of a long-haul package. According to a joint report from Virtuoso® and Globetrender, demand for specialised wellbeing treatments is increasing, with one in eight Virtuoso® clients heading for upmarket health retreats. Wellbeing and medical resorts have responded quickly to rising demand by offering bespoke treatments that incorporate holistic and medical approaches for a wide range of

health concerns – from diabetes, stress and insomnia to anti-ageing, menopause and boosting immunity, including the long-term effects of Covid.

Western Europe is leading the market when it comes to hard-core medical retreats, which are also becoming more popular among young jetsetters.

Further afield, India is well known for luxury wellness resorts such as Ananda in the Himalayas which offers healing programmes focusing on Ayurveda, yoga, and naturopathy and wellness product is booming in the Caribbean, including La Toubana Hôtel & Spa in Guadeloupe which has just updated its SISLEY SPA concept, meanwhile in the UAE Sha Emirates, described as the “first healthy-living island in the world”, is scheduled to open in 2026.

Phenomenal encounters

The word ‘experiential’ is helping to catapult the luxury travel market to new heights.

‘Eclipse-chasing’ is another trend that has emerged, with luxury travellers venturing across the globe to experience these rare celestial events,” says Simon Lynch.

“Greenland, Iceland, or Mallorca are top spots for the 2026 Total Solar Eclipse.”

Adrenaline junkies with deep pockets will relish activities such as tagging hammerhead sharks in Costa Rica, or meeting a bonafide Transylvanian count set within the depths of the mysterious Carpathian Mountains.

Sarah Faith, senior values writer at Responsible Travel, confirms that there is a shift in attitudes from lavishness to real encounters. “This involves finding exclusivity in nature or the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences with local or Indigenous guides.

“What’s great is this kind of nature-based luxury travel is usually relatively low volume but financially high impact and as such it can be a real boost for conservation,” she emphasises. “In Kenya, luxury safaris on land leased from Maasai landowners provide sustainable incomes in harmony with nature. In return customers get a highly personalised holiday with experiences that they might not get on a safari elsewhere.”

Luxury travel will continue to evolve, and what used to be unthinkable will become reality, such as orbital flights and space travel. The possibilities are endless. •

LE JARDIN MALANGA HOTEL

La Creole Beach Hotel & Spa

The perfect

Match

Sun Siyam Resorts is proving that the Maldives isn’t just for honeymooners with resorts that cater to bookings of all shapes and sizes

It’s that time of year when we dream of swapping dark winter days for a white-sand beach, cloudless skies and lazy days, where the only decision that needs to be made is what to have for breakfast. This is the reality of winter –and every season – in the Maldives, and thanks to Sun Siyam Resorts’ range of properties, it’s a dream that is no longer reserved for honeymooning couples.

With five properties in the Maldives and one newly-refurbished resort in Sri Lanka, Sun Siyam Resorts is thriving in these tropical climes and knows how to deliver a holiday that clients will remember forever.

From family-friendly Sun Siyam Iru Fushi and Sun Siyam Olhuveli, offering a ‘children under 15 stay and eat for free’ deal, to beach chic Sun Siyam Iru Veli and traditional Maldivian boutique Sun Siyam Vilu Reef, which oozes romance for couples

of all ages – so much so that one couple has visited over 40 times! Or for larger bookings, Siyam World is loved by groups of friends and multi-generation families, with a wealth of multi-room villas available. With 180 private island resorts across the Maldives to choose between, matching the perfect property can be a difficult task for agents, so here’s our top pick for couples, families and groups of friends...

Sun Siyam Iru Fushi

Perfect for families

With safe, sandy shores, thrilling kids clubs and nature-rich surroundings that welcome exploration, Sun Siyam Iru Fushi is the ideal choice for families of any age. For younger families, the deluxe family beach villas with pool ensures smaller children are never out of sight, while those with older kids will love the overwater villas with steps leading

down into the lagoon. Beyond the villa there’s plenty to keep children occupied; at Nemo’s Garden snorkellers are introduced to the famous clown fish himself, along with a variety of colourful marine life. Meanwhile, at the complimentary kids club nature enthusiasts have the chance to hunt for geckos or try crab racing. It’s the perfect excuse for parents to indulge in some R&R at The Spa by Thalgo France, or take the kids for a family wellness day with child-friendly options, including Chocolicious, a silky soft massage using whipped chocolate cream finished with a chocolate milkshake. Speaking of delicious treats, picky eaters will be spoilt for choice with 15 restaurants and bars. Best of all, up to two children under 15 stay and eat for free when sharing a villa with two adults. Book it with: Gold Medal offers seven nights in a deluxe beach villa on all-inclusive

basis based on two adults and two kids under 15 sharing, including international flights from Heathrow and seaplane transfers. Priced from £8,457 per family for a May 24 2025 departure during half-term.

Sun Siyam Iru Veli

Perfect for couples

Providing a five-star, all-inclusive offering, Sun Siyam Iru Veli ensures that couples need not leave the resort if they don’t want to. Couples looking for privacy can enjoy the luxury of their own pool with every beach villa and over-water villa, plus daily refills of the mini-bar. For the ultimate romantic experience, there’s the cinema under the stars, lagoon breakfasts, Robinson Crusoe sandbank escape or a Maldivian cooking class to try. Or, for something totally unique, why not join a coconut-oil making session on the beach before using the oil

for a massage in the over-water spa? As well as the usual F&B associated with allinclusives, Sun Siyam Iru Veli includes a la carte dining, three excursions, jet ski credit and the choice of a spa voucher or scuba dives for certified divers, meaning couples can do as much or as little as they choose. Book it with: Gold Medal offers seven nights in a deluxe beach villa with pool on all-inclusive board from £2,565 per person, based on two sharing, including flights and seaplane transfers, departing June 10 2025.

Siyam World

Perfect for groups

A resort of ‘firsts’ for the Maldives, Siyam World is the most recent addition to the portfolio. With one-to-four-bedroom villas both on the beach and over-water, the resort is perfectly designed for groups and multi-gen families. During the day, parties

can zip around on electric mini-moke cars, or, for something a bit more adrenalinefuelled, take to the tracks on the first resort go-kart track in the Maldives. The fun continues with Cudajet, the world’s first underwater jet-pack, the first ‘Seabreacher’ in the Maldives, the largest inflatable waterpark in the Maldives and the first resort horse ranch in the Maldives, home to beautiful Marwari thoroughbreds. When the sun goes down, groups have plenty of choice when it comes to dining, with 18 restaurants and bars to visit, most of which are included in the all-inclusive offering, meaning there’s no need to split the bill!

Book it with: Gold Medal offers seven nights in a two-bedroom pool beach villa on all-inclusive board, including return flights from Heathrow and seaplanes from £2,559 per person, based on four adults sharing, departing May 6 2025. sunsiyam.com •

A drop in the ocean

From over-water villas to exclusive excursions, The Maldives is the ultimate destination for luxury, but agents still have plenty of opportunity to upsell, says Donna Richardson

From up high in our seaplane I had been hypnotised by these turquoise-ringed atolls resembling dollops of ice cream. But up-close I realise they are even more dazzling. After being encouraged, with all the other passengers to kick off my shoes and embrace the motto ‘No shoes, no news’, toes in sand vibe, I head to my private water villa where I indulge in a soak in the freestanding tub, mesmerised by the fish flitting below me which appear to be

magnified by the glass floor.

As the day transitions to night, tiki torches lead the way to the beach as I embark on a sunset cruise aboard a traditional dhoni boat with local fishermen. We enjoy canapes, champagne and fine wine as dolphins dance around the vessel, disturbing the sun’s reflection.

Our freshly caught fish is to be that evening’s dinner, wrapped in banana leaves and roasted on a sand pit barbecue. Seasoned to perfection, it’s as fresh as they come and accompanied by Bodu Beru dancers who perform to the beat of the drum, before we settle down for a special candlelit cinema experience, toes in the sand – seems I have already fully embraced the motto.

The luxe life

The Maldives has become the poster child of luxury travel. Whilst the first package holidays saw visitors staying in thatched houses, this has since evolved into the region becoming one of the most luxurious destinations in the world, offering exclusive

island escapes and over-water villas. It remains popular for UK travellers due to easy direct and indirect flights from all the big providers including British Airways, as well as the promise of sun-bleached beaches and high-end resorts, popular amongst honeymooning couples but also as a burgeoning market for independent travel thanks to its unique sense of escapism.

When it comes to luxury, there’s no expense spared. Ahmed Moosa, Airport Manager at Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi, describes the guest experience, saying: “Our visitors are transported from the airport by a private yacht. We’ll organise for them to be greeted by a personal butler and as they settle in, they can sip on champagne, unwind in pure luxury, and enjoy the beauty of the ocean.”

With privacy a top priority, The Maldives remains a popular retreat for celebrities and dignitaries. Sun Siyam Resorts offers exclusivity with multi-room villas across all its resorts. Siyam World features one-tofour-bedroom villas with pools for VIPs, multi-gen families and groups of friends.

SIX SENSES SPA

Karen Lee, sales & marketing manager at Hummingbird Travel says: “As a destination, The Maldives offers complete seclusion and privacy, which is highly appealing to clients post-pandemic.”

According to Travel Republic the average price of a two-week holiday to The Maldives is around £3,400 per person, including accommodation, meals, and local transport. However travel agents have plenty of opportunity to enhance holidays by adding on extras such as private yacht charters, exclusive dining, over-water villas, and wellness packages.

A spokesperson for Visit Maldives, explained: “The Maldives offers plenty of upsell opportunities, the most common is a private seaplane transfer to and from the airport, adding to the Maldivian experience. While private yacht, dining and chef experiences can be included with some of the most luxurious resorts, they can often be sold as add-ons to give agents a commission boost. Other popular ways to enhance bookings include helicopter or seaplane excursions, multi-resort packages

and upgrades to over-water villa stays.”

Lee agrees, adding: “A holiday can be enhanced by suggesting a resort that is reachable by seaplane, as it is a unique experience in itself.” He finishes “The Maldives remains a year-round destination, making it an easy sell for agents.”

The Indian Ocean hotspot has the highest concentration of five-star luxury properties in the world, as well as outstanding food.

It is typically a ‘one island one resort destination’, but, Ali Schumann, Indian Ocean product manager at Audley Travel, believes that twin-centre trips are in demand. He says: “We have a lot of clients booking a dual centre trip – opting for a mix of beach in The Maldives and culture in Sri Lanka. Our clients tell us that excellent service is really important to them for a Maldives trip, paired with a good range of activities and we find that the clients who want the classic Maldives experience are willing to pay at a higher price point. Hufaven Fushi is a popular property choice for both our country specialists and clients and it’s great to see it reopen after its

“The Maldives offers plenty of upsell opportunities, the most common is a private seaplane transfer to and from the airport”

THE WESTIN MALDIVES - OVER-WATER VILLA BONFIRE EXPERIENCE VILU REEF

GRAND PARK KODHIPPARU, MALDIVES

FLOATING BREAKFAST AT BAROS MALDIVES

BAROS MALDIVES ISLAND AND NOOMA CRUISE

SUN SIAM VILU REEF

refurbishment last year.”

One of the most exclusive dining options is The Coral Table situated within Serene Horizons Retreat, offering an intimate dining experience with a focus on sustainable seafood. An area which David DiGregorio, market representative for The Maldives Marketing & PR Corporation (Visit Maldives) says is growing as visitors become more environmentally conscious. “Sustainability is increasingly becoming a key trend in luxury travel as guests seek eco-conscious options, from coral restoration programmes to resorts that minimise their environmental footprint,” said DiGregorio.

What’s New

New resorts: The Maldives is adding new places to stay because of the increasing numbers of visitors. Several luxury hotels opened in the past year including Barcelo Whale Lagoon Maldives, Avani+ Fares Maldives, and Emerald Faarufushi Resort & Spa. The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort also finished upgrading all 70 overwater and beach villas to now feature private pools.

Newly-opened Jawakara Islands Maldives

focuses on family-friendly experiences on two separate islands.

Another family-friendly resort, Sun Siyam World has just launched the first resort gokart track in the Maldives, featuring a 205m race track.

Soneva Secret is another exclusive place with only 14 villas, offering personal service and unique dining experiences.

OZEN Privé Athiri Gili - a sustainability champion, with 38 pool villas, is due to open before Christmas.

Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives, located in the North Male Atoll, is about to open its doors boasting 145 villas and a wide range of family-friendly activities.

Mandarin Oriental will open Bolidhuffaru Reef Resort next year. This will stretch across three private islands, and feature 120 stand-alone villas and 56 water bungalows as well as several dining outlets, speciality restaurants, and a sunset bar.

Bvlgari Resort Ranfushi will open in Raa Atoll in 2026, covering 20 hectares with 54 keys, including an exclusive Bvlgari Villa and various dining experiences.

In 2027, Rosewood Ranfaru in the Maldives, located in South Male atoll, will

offer 120 beachfront and water villas with associated private islands.

Top luxury experiences

Engage with the natural world: Witness the spectacular sight of spinner dolphins dancing around your boat at sunset. The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort provides this experience on its dolphin cruise. The resort is also located close to the sanctuary of Hanifaru Bay, the largest population of studied Manta Rays globally, and offers a unique opportunity for visitors to snorkel alongside these gentle giants. For those seeking a deeper understanding of underwater life, a weekly Marine Biology presentation and a captivating coral propagation experience is on offer. marriott.com

Stay at an underwater villa: The Muraka, an underwater villa at Conrad Maldives, continues to be a standout, offering guests a stay beneath the ocean with panoramic underwater views, truly making it one of the most luxurious experiences in the world. Guests can stay in exclusive over-water villas, enjoy private butler service, and charter yachts for

SNORKEL WITH MATA RAYS AT THE WESTIN

SUN SIYAM OLHUVELI IS POPULAR FOR WEDDINGS

VELIGANDU ISLAND RESORT & SPA

intimate island-hopping adventures. conradmaldives.com

Personalised wellness programmes: A personalised wellness retreat at Joali Being is designed to rebalance the Four Pillars of Wellbeing. The guests journey will be customised after an Intelligent Movement Analysis and an Integrative Health Assessment. Wellbeing programmes can be tailored to areas of strength and vitality, mental clarity and wellbeing, hormonal balance, women’s health, digestive and weight rebalance, restorative sleep, as well as movement and alignment for good health and immunity. joali.com There’s also menopause therapy at the Amilla Maldives amilla.com

Horse riding ranch: Siyam World, a five-star island in the Maldives, opened in October 2021. The resort features 6km of white sand beach and the Maldives’ only horse-riding ranch. You can ride wild horses at the 16,000 square meter ranch, home to Marwari mares, stallions, and mixed-breed ponies. Riding along the coast is best at sunset, and you can also

book photoshoots and wedding beach rides. sunsiyam.com

Zip-wired Michelin dining: Flying Sauces located at Soneva Fushi is a thrilling experience where guests who are harnessed can glide along the resort’s zipline course, diners soar through the jungle crossing a series of viewpoints before they cross a final rope bridge to reach their dining table sitting more than 12 metres in the air. Surrounded by the lush palm tree canopy and incredible ocean views, visitors tuck into a personalised breakfast feast or a multi-course menu by the resort’s current visiting Michelin-star chef. soneva.com

Dine with the fish: Enjoy a unique underwater dining experience at Latitude 4°. Descend nine metres below the ocean’s surface to a romantic table with panoramic views of vibrant marine life. Alternatively, visit the world’s first all-glass underwater restaurant, Ithaa Undersea Restaurant, set five meters below the water’s surface at Conrad Maldives Rangali Island. Additionally, Hurawalhi’s 5.8 Undersea restaurant offers an award-

winning spa and a wide range of under and over-water experiences for guests over 15. kuoni.co.uk

Where to book it:

HUMMINGBIRD TRAVEL

Hummingbird Travel offer a Baros Maldives & Six Senses Laamu Twin-Centre trip, priced from £6,015. The package includes three nights at Baros Maldives in a Deluxe Beach Villa, plus a four-night stay at Six Senses Laamu Lagoon in a water villa. Price is based on two persons and includes bed & breakfast and roundtrip seaplane and speedboat transfers. Not including international flights. hummingbird.travel •

Escape to Wellness Family Resort

Nestled on a pristine island reef, The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort offers spacious beach and overwater villas designed for ultimate comfort.

Complemented by four distinctive restaurants and a bar, Heavenly Spa by Westin™, and the 24/7 WestinWORKOUT® Fitness Studio, this eco-friendly resort allows you to rejuvenate while experiencing unmatched luxury.

Little ones can embark on exciting adventures at the Westin Family Kids Club, while adults explore the wonders of Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

THE WESTIN MALDIVES

Go luxe in

New England

For visitors in search of old school luxury, refined spa resorts and elevated food and drink experiences, New England won’t disappoint, says Jo Reeder

Clients looking for some quiet luxury can find it in New England. Boutique shops, grand hotels and the freshest seafood allow visitors to indulge.

New Hampshire

Since the 19th century New Hampshire has been home to grand spa resorts where visitors can escape and take in the rejuvenating mountain air. A stay at one of these historic hotels is a must; many can be found in the picturesque peaks of New Hampshire’s famed White Mountains.

Two of the most acclaimed spa resorts are the Mountain View Grand in Whitefield and Omni Mount Washington Resort in Bretton Woods. Omni is located across from the Bretton Woods Ski Area, which is one of New Hampshire’s largest ski areas, boasting some of the best downhill skiing. Visitors can indulge in luxurious spa treatments after a day on the slopes. Wine connoisseurs should save plenty of time to enjoy the extensive wine cellar at the Mountain View Grand.

On the coast, Wentworth by the Sea is New Hampshire’s oldest seaside resort. Home to the region’s premier yacht club and private golf course, a stay at this iconic hotel will nourish the mind, body and soul.

Maine

Maine has it all: quintessential landscapes that are perfect for outdoorsy types, historic sites celebrating American history, art and culture, wildlife and endless opportunities for messing about on the water. Maine is a laid-back state where visitors can spend relaxed days exploring quaint seaside villages or head into the hills to discover exhilarating hiking trails – and everything in between.

Maine is probably best known for its lobster, said to be some of the finest in the world. Whether you’re craving a classic lobster roll or prefer to devour lobster in a luxury five-star restaurant, visitors are spoiled for choice here.

Explore dozens of tiny islands off the Atlantic coast with a cruise on an historic schooner. In Portland, skippers will educate visitors about lobster habitats and thrill them with a seato-table lobster feast on an island beach.

Connecticut

Away from Connecticut’s shoreline, inland New England transports visitors back in time. The foothills of the Berkshire Mountains offer some of the most spectacular scenery in Connecticut, with small towns and enchanting countryside to explore.

Litchfield Hills is often described as an alternative to the Hamptons. Here, visitors can immerse themselves in rich travel experiences with abundant nature, top-class dining and eclectic shopping. The 21 communities making up Litchfield Hills cater for all tastes and budgets. Neighbourhoods burst with highend boutiques selling designer labels and world-class art galleries. Or uncover hidden treasures in the area’s famous antique shops – Woodbury is an excellent starting point. •

/ Six of the

Top class

Business cabins

Upsell flights to Business class so that clients can relax into a world of luxury long before they reach their destination, says April Waterston

United Airlines

An increased focus on wellness onboard United Airlines means its Polaris (Business class) passengers are promised the ‘best sleep in the sky’. The cabin features thoughtful touchpoints in partnership with wellness brand Therabody across amenities and the inflight entertainment, as well as an eco-conscious luxury bedding line created in collaboration with Saks Fifth Avenue. united.com

BeOnd

Are your clients off on a once-in-alifetime luxury trip to the Maldives? For something really special, consider telling them about BeOnd – a new allpremium airline where Business class makes up the whole plane. Specifically targeting luxury clients flying to the Maldives, BeOnd’s unique offer aims to bring the private jet atmosphere to leisure travellers. All seats are equipped with an iPad and Beats headphones. flybeond.com

Vietnam Airlines

With a calming white and beige colour scheme, Vietnam Airlines’ Business class cabin is sure to help your client relax during their long flight. Mood lighting and a lie-flat seat give travellers the best chance possible to arrive at their destination feeling wellrested, and high-quality food and wines will help the time pass quickly. The airline flies direct from Heathrow to Hanoi four times a week. vietnamairlines.com

Emirates

If your client appreciates the finer things in life, Emirates could be the airline for them. Over the last decade Emirates has invested AED 290 million ($79 million) into the beer and spirits it serves onboard alone, and offers 96 premium wines, Champagnes, Ports and sweet wines across its network. The airline is currently retrofitting its 777 aircraft, on which a passenger bar and enhanced seat privacy will feature in Business class. emirates.com

Air New Zealand

Built around the concept of ‘Manaaki – taking care further than any other airline on earth’, Air New Zealand’s refreshed B787 Business offer brings a taste of Aotearoa (New Zealand) onboard. Highlights include the food service with fresh produce from across the destination and interior design inspired by the native Tui bird. The cocoonlike Business seat is affectionately referred to as the ‘nest’. airnewzealand.co.nz

Finnair

Since 2017 Finnair has been evolving to position itself as the carrier of choice between Europe and Asia. Within the Nordic-design inspired Business cabin, clients will be thrilled to relax in the ‘AirLounge’ seat, described by the airline as more of ‘space’ rather than a ‘seat’. Through clever design a large open space is created, with panels at the bottom of the seat that flip up to create one large flat surface – a market-leading bed in the sky. finnair.com

Fresh

Demand for Fiji

New airlift and adventurous attractions are enticing UK visitors to seek out Fiji’s sun-soaked islands into next year

Known for its joyful locals and pristine islands Fiji, situated in the heart of the South Pacific, is enjoying increased demand from the UK market, with UK visitor numbers rising by 14.7% in the first quarter of 2024.

These numbers are expected to continue to grow with the introduction of a new direct flight from Dallas Fort Worth International Airport in Texas to Nadi, Fiji, commencing in December 2024.

The new non-stop 13-hour service will operate three times per week with special introductory fares now available for purchase at fijiairways.com.

Speaking of the investment in airlift, Tourism Fiji’s Regional Director UK & Europe Jane West says: “We are delighted to see our numbers exceeding pre-pandemic levels and are thankful to our trade partners in contributing to this growth. Renewed airlift via Japan and Hong Kong, as well as a new connection via Vancouver, and the upcoming Dallas flight, will be sure to continue to boost these numbers and give travellers increased options for contrasting twin-centre holidays.”

What’s new

New attractions: Fiji is hoping to establish itself as a top adventure destination with a host of new exhilarating experiences, including:

iBike Fiji, the country’s first e-bike tour, offers guided off-road cycling trips exploring local villages and lush mountain ranges.

Leading transport and tour provider Rosie Holidays has introduced two 4WD safari buses, a first for the country. Tours include the Ancient Trails Safari, which traces the 300-year-old path of Fiji’s first settlers.

For thrill-seekers, Go Dirty Tours Fiji is offering Harley Davidson motorbike rentals alongside off-road quad and ATV tours.

Set in the beautiful Momi Bay, Mai Island Ride offers guided off-road motorbike tours across Fiji’s rugged landscapes. A new threeday off-road motorbike adventure will allow riders to explore everything from mountain trails to WWII historical sites.

New hotels: Waya Island Resort, a 17 ‘bure’ adults-only property in the Mamanuca Islands, opened in 2023.

Crowne Plaza Fiji Nadi Bay Resort & Spa re-

opened its doors in February 2024 following a multi-million-dollar refurbishment (previously Pullman Nadi Bay).

In response to the surge of multigenerational travel, Vomo Island Resort opened two new two-bedroom beachfront pool villas in summer 2024.

Extensive refurbishments have taken place at a host of five-star resorts including Yasawa Island Resort & Spa, Fiji, which recently completed a million-dollar renovation, as well as Royal Davui Island Resort which re-opened in August and fivestar Westin Denarau Island Resort & Spa.

Future luxury additions include Vatu Talei and Radisson Blu Naisoso, both expected to open in 2026.

OUTRIGGER Fiji Beach Resort completed its multi-million dollar transformation earlier this year designed with families in mind, offering upgraded rooms and a reimagined OUTRIGGER Adventure Park.

New to Cruise: In early 2025, South Seas Cruises will launch South Sea Cats, offering half-day snorkelling adventures and cruises. •

WELCOMING LOCALS

FIJI AIRWAYS

FIJI

African lodges

Offering five-star service and epic wildlife encounters, these luxury lodges ensure clients have all the creature comforts whilst in the heart of the African Bush, says Jessica Alexander

Bushtops Serengeti Home to 12 luxury lodges, each with its own private deck, hot tub, indoor/outdoor shower and an unobstructed view of the Serengeti, Bushtops Serengeti in Tanzania is a luxury oasis that blends into its surroundings. Guests can enjoy wildlife encounters from their own private hot tub or use the guest swimming pool in the heart of the camp. Don’t be surprised if clients find they have a vehicle to themselves, especially in the low season, allowing for private game viewing experiences. bushtopscamps.com

Thanda Safari Located in South Africa’s northern KwaZulu Natal (KZN), Thanda Safari Big Five Private Game Reserve spans over 14,000-hectares and features four unique safari accommodation options to choose from: Thanda Safari Lodge, Villa iZulu, Thanda Tented Camp and The Royal Thanda Club by Thanda Safari. For groups,

Villa Izulu accommodates up to 10 guests in five luxury suites. The villa comes fully equipped with a private boma, library, wine cellar, heated swimming pool, jacuzzi, viewing deck and its own helicopter pad! With easy road access to southern Mozambique, Thanda offers a rare bush-tobeach experience. thanda.com

Kamba Africa For clients dreaming of seeing gorillas, Kamba Africa, set in Odzala-Kokoua National Park, is home to the endangered Western Lowland gorillas. With only 2,920 tourists visiting the Republic of the Congo annually, compared to 30,000 in other gorilla trekking destinations like Rwanda and Uganda, Kamba Africa offers a more exclusive experience. Guests can choose from Ngaga Lodge, hidden in the forest, Lango Lodge in the heart of the Congo Basin rainforest or Mboko Lodge in the savanna forest. kambaafrica.com

Onguma Camp Kala Opened in 2022, this lodge in Namibia consists of just four guest suites. The whole camp is elevated on wooden stilts, linked by raised walkways, offering a great vantage point of the floodlit waterhole below. There’s also a water-level photographic hide, gym, spa and yoga deck. The guest suites each have their own deck with day bed, outdoor shower, wood-fired hot tub and a seating area with fire pit. onguma.com

Chobe Game Lodge Famous as the location of Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor’s second honeymoon, Chobe Game Lodge is the only permanent structure inside Botswana’s Chobe National Park, allowing guests to be the first to enter the park every morning and the last to leave. The lodge has one of Africa’s first all-female guiding teams, electric game vehicles, solar-powered boats, and has 40 guest rooms

and four luxurious suites. The park is home to the largest population of elephants in the world. chobegamelodge.com

Kibale Lodge Specialising in chimpanzee viewing, Volcanoes Safaris’ newly-opened Kibale Lodge in

Uganda is located in Kibale Forest – the ‘Primate Capital of the World’ with a community of 1,500 chimps. The Lodge comprises eight bandas, plus spa and pool with views of the Rwenzori Mountains and the Queen Elizabeth plains. The lodge is due to launch a new 10-day ‘Primates of the Great Rift Valley’ safari. This combines chimpanzee trekking at Kyambura Gorge Lodge and gorilla trekking at Mount Gahinga Lodge. volcanoessafaris.com

Lemala Wildwaters Lodge Perched on Kalagala Island on Uganda’s River Nile, Lemala Wildwaters Lodge incorporates its water-based location into its safari

adventures. Accessible only by boat, this private island retreat features 10 suites with views of the Nile’s rapids. Each has an openair bathtub and two have private plunge pools. Guests can enjoy white-water rafting, bungee jumping and jet boating, or unwind by the pool overlooking the river. Spot giant otters in the rapids or opt for a night safari to see nocturnal animals. lemalacamps.com

Chisa Busanga Camp Clients looking for something unique will love the four ‘bird nest’ suites elevated above the ground, with views of Zambia’s Busanga Plains. Inspired by weaver bird nests, the rooms are 100% solar powered.

Accommodating only eight guests at a time, the camp offers hot air balloon safaris and night drives to spot elusive nocturnal wildlife. greensafaris.com

Zambezi Sands Situated along the Zambezi River, minutes from the

thundering Victoria Falls, Zambezi Sands in Zimbabwe is the first black female-owned safari lodge in Africa. It features 10 private Bedouin-style tents with river views. Each has a private viewing deck, en-suite bathroom, outdoor shower and lounge area and some have a private plunge pool. Guests can indulge in a fishing safari or stick to a traditional bush safari. batokaafrica.com

Grootbos Private Nature Reserve

Set on a private nature reserve in South Africa, this luxury eco-reserve offers experiences such as horseback riding, flower safaris, hikes and even whale watching. The Garden Lodge consists of 11 suites with views of the coastline, plus kids club and playroom. Meanwhile the Forest Lodge offers 16 suites with fireplaces, as well as an infinity pool. There are also two private villas, complete with private chef, butler and nature guides. grootbos.com •

The sky’s the limit for North America bookings

Suppliers at Selling Travel Connect: North America were keen to update agents in London, Leeds and Edinburgh.

The events attracted 143 agents to discover opportunities to sell product in the USA and Canada, and the latest offerings from airlines. Here’s a round-up of the latest news...

Delta Air Lines: The new HeathrowOrlando service starts in May 2025. Free Wi-Fi is available on all UK-US flights.

Expedia TAAP: A new payment feature allows agents to book pre-paid property rates without the need for immediate payment, giving flexibility to pay until seven days before the free cancellation date. It offers travel agents commission on properties, car hire, activities and airport transfers and exclusive, trade-only rates with an average discount of up to 20%.

JetBlue: In 2025 daily flights will again operate between Edinburgh and JFK airport from May to September. Trade fares are available to travel agents. made: Bookings can be made through

partners such as Ticketpipe and Broadway Inbound. It organises monthly familiarisation trips.

Boston: The city has teams in every major American sport including American football, baseball, basketball and ice hockey and is 2026 FIFA World Cup host.

Rocky Mountaineer: The newest route is the Rockies to the Red Rocks between Denver, Colorado, and Moab, Utah. A new agent portal has just launched and agents can become Rocky Mountaineer specialists with TRACKS training.

SUMMIT One Vanderbilt: The attraction in New York City often sells out. Make timely sales via B2B channels Do Something Different, Attraction World and Gold Medal Clients, which offer agent commission.

Sun Peaks Resort: The resort in central British Columbia is an ideal stopping point during self-drive holidays. The West Bowl chairlift will open this winter.

Selling Travel Connect sellingtravel.co.uk/connect-calendar

Suppliers included: Meet Boston, Visit Huntington Beach, Cincy Region, Travel Nevada, Rocky Mountaineer, Visit Mississippi, Tennessee Tourism, Sun Peaks, Visit Pittsburgh, Summit One Vanderbilt, Delta Air Lines, The State of Washington Tourism, JetBlue, made Tourism Marketing, WestJet, Visit Florida, Expedia TAAP, New Jersey Division of Tourism, Virgin Hotels Collection and United Airlines.

Tennessee Tourism: In 2025 Tennessee will commemorate Elvis Presley’s 90th birthday and a century of Grand Ole Opry, the world’s longest-running live radio show.

Travel Nevada: Norse Atlantic Airways offers a new route from London Gatwick and Aer Lingus flies from Dublin.

United Airlines: Seven US cities (Chicago, Denver, Houston, Los Angeles, New York/ Newark, San Francisco and Washington D.C.) are served from London.

Virgin Hotels: The chain has enhanced its digital booking platform to provide agents with seamless experiences.

Visit Cincy: There is a direct flight from London Heathrow to Cincinnati and North Kentucky International Airport four times a week in winter and five times in summer.

Visit Florida: The Brightline high-speed train now connects Orlando International Airport and Miami. Read the full coverage at sellingtravel.co.uk/training-events/. •

SELLING TRAVEL CONNECT, LEEDS NEVADA DESERT

Brand USA’s week of growth

Travel to the U.S. is in rude health and outperforming expectations, a trade audience was told at Brand USA Travel Week (October 21-23).

Speaking at the event in London, which saw over 350 U.S. cities, states and regions and their supplier partners showcase their tourism products, Brand USA’s new president and CEO, Fred Dixon said the country was “no longer talking about recovery but was talking about new records”.

Dixon said the U.S. was on track to record almost 77 million international arrivals in 2024, and was on a path to set a record for the forecasted 87 million arrivals by the end of next year which is “on pace to exceed the National Travel and Tourism Strategy goal of 90 million visitors yearly by 2026.”

Dixon said Europe and the U.K. remained the top source markets for travellers to the U.S., with 2024 projected to close with 15 million European arrivals – up 1.6 million year-over-year.

And next year was expected to bring a new record of nearly 17 million European visitors.

Dixon said consumer sentiment was “strong”, with Brand USA research showing that for 11 key European markets the U.S. was the number one long-haul destination on their bucket list for the next 12 months.

The amount visitors are spending in the U.S. is also increasing and now exceeds 2019 levels across all 15 of the top European

inbound markets, with visitor spend highest from the U.K. market (at $14bn), followed by Germany, France and Italy.”

Dixon said research had also found that visitors were looking beyond the country’s gateway cities, such as New York, Los Angeles and Atlanta, with nearly half of future travellers planning to visit two to three cities on their next trip to the U.S., and 43% of visitors returning to see new areas.

“This tells us visitors aren’t just sticking to the well-known gateway cities – they’re eager to explore beyond,” he said.

Visitor growth over the next few years would be fuelled by several major events.

These include WorldPride in Washington DC next year, celebrations in several states around the 250th anniversary of American independence (known as America250), the 100th anniversary of Route 66 and the FIFA World Cup in 2026; the 2028 Summer and 2034 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games. brandusa.com

Wendy Wu’s big Asia boost

Wendy Wu Tours has revealed its biggest brochure to date in response to an ‘unprecedented demand’ for travel to Southeast Asia.

The new brochure for 2025-2026 comes after forward bookings for Southeast Asia rose by 35% for 2025 compared to 2024. Travellers can find fully inclusive, specialist tours across Borneo, Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam.

Tours include the 17-day Vietnam & the Reunification Express; 13-day Christmas in Thailand; 15-day Singapore to Bangkok by Rail; 16-day Cambodia & Mekong

Uncovered; and 12-day Laos: Top to Toe. Plus, Wendy Wu Tours is launching a Tailormade Southeast Asia Collection for those looking for bespoke itineraries.

Gary King, Head of Trade Sales at Wendy Wu Tours, said: “We are incredibly proud to unveil our largest and most comprehensive collection of Southeast Asia tours. Southeast Asia is experiencing a significant travel boom, driven in part by the huge popularity of the BBC series Race Across the World. There’s never been a better time to visit, and we’re seeing a surge in demand for 2025.” wendywutours.co.uk

The top-selling agent of Bahia Principe Luxury Esmeralda will win a five-night stay at the hotel with an all-inclusive plan. Agents have until December 19 to confirm a booking at the property for stays up until December 22, 2024, and to register it via the Bahia Principe Rewards loyalty program for travel agents. (The deadline to register sales on the platform is January 15, 2025.)

Inspired by traditional Taíno culture, the newly-renovated Bahia Principe Luxury Esmeralda in Punta Cana, located to the east of the Dominican Republic, is setting the standard for family-friendly luxury. The hotel features 570 rooms some with swim-up access, a water park, gym, and à la carte restaurants. The winning agent will be announced on January 22, 2025. bahia-principe.com

Group travel specialist G Adventures has unveiled a new brand aimed at solo travellers looking for “personal growth, connection and safety” on their trips. Called ‘Solo-ish Adventures’, it promises to take solo travel “to the next level” and has been introduced in response to growing demand from people who want to travel solo, as part of a group, but not in a group with couples or groups of friends. Initially there will be 13 Solo-ish trips in some of G Adventures’ most popular destinations, including Costa Rica, India, Peru, South Africa and Vietnam. They are bookable now and will start in March 2025. gadventures.com

Brits back agents, says ABTA

More people are turning to travel professionals to arrange their holidays, according to a recent report from ABTA.

ABTA’s latest Holiday Habits report shows a year-on-year rise in Brits booking with a travel agent or tour operator from 34% in 2023 to 38% in 2024.

The rise has been particularly dramatic among families with young children, with 55% saying they booked with a travel professional in the 12 months to August 2024, compared with 36% the previous year.

There was also a jump in the number of people aged 18-24 who book with agents or operators – 48% compared to 36% over the same time period.

“The trust in travel professionals is counter to the general decline in trust in the UK – in politicians, in media, in institutions,” said ABTA Chief Executive Mark Tanzer in his opening speech at October’s ABTA Convention in Greece.

He said ABTA members’ aggregate sales now exceed pre-Covid levels, and for the first time it now holds over one billion pounds of bonds, driven by growth in

members’ sales.

“We do face challenges on a number of fronts, of course, but we move forward from a position of strength,” he said.

“Our industry and its customers are once again dealing with the wide variety of operational challenges that can disrupt people’s plans with very little notice, be that natural disasters or technological disruption,” added Tanzer.

“While most people’s travels aren’t affected, there is clearly an increasing number of customers appreciating the reassurance of having an expert in their corner who can resolve any unexpected issues if needed.” abta.com

AAT Kings discounts Oz

AAT Kings, which specialises in Australia and New Zealand escorted tours, has put its new 2025/2026 season itineraries on sale.

To celebrate the launch, the operator is discounting selected departures from the new programme by up to 15% when booked before December 6, 2024.

The saving applies on the new 10-day Tropical Queensland tour which includes two UNESCO World Heritage Sites – Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics of Queensland – as well as a two-night stay on Magnetic Island – an itinerary first for AAT Kings, with prices from £3,531 down from £4,051, per person, excluding flights.

Highlights also includes Hamelin Bay Wines, Western Australia; Iron Creek Bay Farm Estate, Tasmania; Mimbi Caves, Western Australia and Pounamu Pathway, New Zealand. The new season launch

includes the addition of MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences, such as tours of Devils @ Cradle Tasmanian conservation sanctuary and the UNESCO World Heritagelisted Port Arthur Historic Site. These tours are designed to provide in-depth insights into local communities and projects with a positive impact. aatkings.com

NEWS IN BRIEF

• Gulf Air adds UK service Gulf Air launched its new flights from London Heathrow and Manchester to Singapore, via Bahrain, in October. Daily flights service London Heathrow whilst flights from Manchester depart operate five times per week between Wednesday and Sunday. Return flights start from £541 in economy. gulfair.com

• Aer Lingus flies to Nevada Aer Lingus launched its seasonal service from Dublin to Las Vegas in October. Operating three times weekly until April 29 2025, the non-stop service departs Dublin (DUB) at 15:20 (LT) on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays and arrives into Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) at 17:50 (LT). Lead in fares start from 499 euros return in economy. aerlingus.com

• River cruise adds hikes CroisiEurope has expanded its Cruise & Hike programme for 2025, with two new itineraries, a five-night Rhine Valley cruise and a four-night Gironde cruise. The cruises feature guided walks aimed at both walkers and nonwalkers alike. croisieurope.co.uk

• Sierra Leone goes direct New flag carrier, Air Sierra Leone, will service direct flights from London Gatwick to Freetown, Sierra Leone, from December. The thrice-weekly flights will depart from London Gatwick to Freetown on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Fares for the six-hour journey are priced at $999pp each way. tourismsierraleone.com

Twin focus for the Indian Ocean & Middle East

Suppliers at Selling Travel Connect: Indian Ocean & Middle East showcased their products to agents in London, Birmingham and Manchester.

Fantastic prizes were given away when 130 travel agents joined suppliers for valuable face-to-face meetings and networking in three UK locations. Prizes included a seven-night stay at RIU Turquoise, five nights at Fujairah Rotana Resort & Spa, a four-night stay at Sun Siyam Iru Fushi, three nights at JA Lake View Hotel and a three-night stay at Sunrise Attitude. Here’s a round-up of supplier news...

Adaaran Maldives: Most hotels are allinclusive, with food, drinks and nonmotorised water sports included. Guests staying two nights or more can claim two free excursions such as dolphin cruises.

Heritance Aarah: Activities for children include a creche and kids club. There is also a PADI Dive Centre for keen divers.

Attitude Hotels: Attitude recently become B-Corp certified. There are plans to expand into Zanzibar next year.

Visit Ajman: Offering more value for

Selling Travel Connect sellingtravel.co.uk/connect-calendar

Suppliers included: Sun Siyam Resorts, Adaaran –Maldives, Banyan Tree, Angsana Velavaru, Dhawa, Heritance Aarah, The Address, Attitude Hotels, Seychelles Tourism/Denis Island, Carana Beach Hotel, Indian Ocean Lodge, RUI Hotels & Resorts, Jordan Tourism Board, Sunlife, Dubai Parks, Ras Al Khaimah, Rotana Hotels & Resorts, JA Resorts, Ajman Tourism, Hard Rock Hotel Maldives and SAii Lagoon Maldives, Curio Collection by Hilton and Crossroads Maldives.

money than some of the neighbouring emirates, Ajman’s four and five-star resorts come with their own beach and offer a range of board options. Ajman Museum is now the UAE’s largest heritage museum.

Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru has been named the Most Sustainable Resort in the Maldives.

Denis Private Island: Indian Ocean Lodge, its third property, has reopened on the island of Praslin.

Dubai Parks and Resorts: Dubai Parks are offering trade rates for single-day entry to one or two parks. The resort is now home to MOTIONGATE Dubai, LEGOLAND Dubai, LEGOLAND Waterpark and REAL MADRID WORLD.

Visit Jordan: This year community-led website TravelJordanian.com will launch, designed to find local experiences. Royal Jordanian has started flying from London Stansted and Manchester.

Ras Al Khaimah: 2025 will see the arrival of

homegrown UAE brand, Rove Hotels to Ras Al Khaimah. The Westin Ras Al Khaimah is also set to open in 2025.

Rotana: Rotana’s latest property, Beach Bay Hotel – Mirfa, has opened in Abu Dhabi.

The brand has another six hotels in the pipeline across the MENAT (Middle East, North Africa & Turkey) region.

RIU: RIU has developed an upgrade service in select hotels called Elite Club. The brand operates RIU Partys in select resorts.

Sun Siyam Resorts: Guests are offered a $100 spa credit at Siyam Iru Veli. This can be swapped for dives, a Jet Ski credit or a daily shi sha offering. Kids under 15 stay free of charge at Siyam Olhuveli.

Sunlife: Sunlife offers a ‘Unique Golf Experience’ in Mauritius; three Golf Courses – four Resorts with access to Île aux Cerfs Golf Club, Anahita Golf Club and Tamarina Golf Club. Read the full coverage at sellingtravel.co.uk/training-events/•

SELLING TRAVEL CONNECT, MANCHESTER LE MORNE, MAURITIUS

AJMAN MUSEUM