TB28112025

Giving agents the edge

Indian Ocean

Overwater villas, cultural celebrations, and unmatched hospitality

This Travel Counsellor shares her experience with the Indian Ocean’s “hidden gem” (Pg.

TIME IS A LUXURY

Destination exploration, seamless journeys and a different side to expeditioning are the key trends in the luxury market according to a new report by Audley Travel. NEWS From Black Friday deals to New Year announcements.

AGENT BULLETIN

The latest incentives and training opportunities ahead of the peaks period.

ROADSHOW ROUNDUP

We celebrated all things luxury with top suppliers. 10

Increased air connectivity, brandnew tours and more in the Great White North this winter.

Put a spin on your clients’ winter wishes in this sun-soaked destination. 19

IN PARTNERSHIP with Globetrender, Audley Travel has revealed its Luxury Tailormade Travel Trends 2026 report, with research suggesting the true mark of a luxurious getaway is time.

Audley has reported rising demand for richer exploration for clients choosing a cruise and stay itinerary. Pairing a cruise with time spent exploring deeper into the destination allows travellers to maximise their time and value for money, with Audley stating it has witnessed a 36% increase in the number of customers requesting a ‘cruise and stay’ itinerary.

While expeditions to Antarctica and the Arctic have called to those travellers looking for an adventure of a lifetime, Audley has witnessed a growing interest in demand for adventures that offer the same thrills and once-in-a-lifetime experiences, but in warmer climates without the same

level of physical excursion. Soft expeditioning in Indonesia, the Amazon and Africa are proving to be attractive options for holidaymakers with a sense of adventure.

70% of Audley’s country specialists have stated their clients specifically ask for curated multi-spoke itineraries to ensure each holidaymaker has their needs and desires met while spending that all important time together on a family holiday. The itineraries favoured often include activities varying in energy levels and personal tastes, for example exploring the temples of Angkor in Siem Reap by mountain bike for the younger generations while the grandparents experience the same sights via tuk tuk. Blending experiences into one seamless journey to suit everybody offers a different definition of a ‘luxury holiday’.

Showcase Calendar

Sign

Ready, set, Silverstone!

JUST GO! Holidays has put its F1 breaks on sale for next year’s Grand Prix at Silverstone.

Two options are available to book: a three-day coach break (from £749 per person) departing on July 3rd, 2026 from a range of pickup points across the north and the Midlands. Coach packages include travel, two night’s bed-and-breakfast

accommodation, one dinner, and a general admission to practice/qualifying and race days at Silverstone.

A four-day self-drive option is also available. Leading in at £899 per person, the self-drive includes coach transfers from the bed-and-breakfast accommodation and admission on all three days (including practice sessions on day one).

EVA Air celebrates Irons partnership at WTM

TAIWANESE AIRLINE Eva Air, which has partnered with West Ham United since 2018, welcomed three Premier League (for now...) footballers to World Travel Market.

Around 50 agents and partners joined the airline on stand for photo opportunities

with Luis Guilherme, Lucas Paquetá and Mateus Fernandes, to celebrate not only the partnership but the launch of new services from Taipei to Busan and Dallas, an additional service to Brisbane, and the Milan service going daily from January.

Korea’s East Coast opens up, courtesy of Inside Travel

WITH THE ITX rail network expanded earlier this year, making South Korea’s East Coast more accessible by train, Inside Travel has unveiled a first-of-its-kind 13-day self-guided itinerary, Korea by Rail.

The itinerary, which leads in from £3,455 per person with accommodation, rail travel, and select meals, private guides and transfers, “connects travellers across the country from the modern buzz of Seoul to the heritage heart of Gyeongju and the seaside spirit of Busan,” according to South Korea product executive Rebecca Barry. “The tailorable 12-night itinerary includes all accommodation... a traditional hanok stay in the cultural capital of Gyeongju... hands on cultural experiences and some Insider guiding enroute. And the key aspect of any Korean journey, there is a vast amount of food on offer.”

Travelsphere’s causes for celebration

TRADE SALES director Tom Morgan had plenty to celebrate when he spoke to Travel Bulletin earlier this month.

The brands’ on-the-road trade team, which was formed of two this time last year, has since doubled in size.

“One thing for us that has been really nice [about the trade team's capacity boost] is that we have a really nice, personable and easy to work with team. I think, sometimes, that gets

undervalued in the trade.”

Reflecting on nearly two years with Travelsphere and Just You, Tom said, “Seeing how we can empower people has been, personally, really nice to see, and perhaps something I was a bit oblivious to before I joined."

More from Tom at: www.travelbulletin.co.uk/news/agent-successcentral-to-travelspheres-cause-for-celebration

Millie Bobby Brown swaps the Upside Down for Yas Island Abu Dhabi

STRANGER THINGS star Millie Bobby Brown has been confirmed as Yas Island Abu Dhabi’s new brand ambassador, following in the footsteps of Ryan Reynolds and Jason Momoa.

Liam Findlay, Miral Destinations' CEO, said, "We couldn’t think of a better time to welcome Millie Bobby Brown into the Yas Island family. Millie represents everything Yas Island stands for: imagination, adventure, and pure, unforgettable fun.

"As the world says goodbye to Eleven, we’re thrilled to say hello to Millie and to a new chapter filled with wonder, excitement, and a little bit of mystery."

The Stranger Things happening in Yas Island do not end there; Stranger Things: The Experience has opened on Yas Island Abu Dhabi, inviting visitors to live their own experience in the Upside Down with set recreations and interactive areas. Packages are now available to book.

The statistic that reveals Palma's thriving luxury appeal

DESPITE SELECT markets slightly declining in 2025 performance, visitor spend is up 16% year-on-year: regardless of Palma's strategic spending success, managing director of Palma Tourist Board, Pedro Homar, believes there is "room to grow.”

The UK remains the top source market for Palma—Pedro iterated, "We want to maintain our relationship with British tourists, especially in the city, because of the importance that UK tourists have with Palma, but also for what the city has to offer.

"We believe that there is room to grow our UK market appeal in the city of Palma."

Hear more from Pedro at www.travelbulletin.co.uk/news/the-statisticthat-reveals-palmas-thriving-luxury-appeal

Celebrity ready to Xcel with new ship

CELEBRITY XCEL has arrived in Florida ahead of its inaugural season. Jason Liberty, Royal Caribbean Group's president and CEO, welcomed the new ship to Fort Lauderdale. "With each new ship, we raise the bar for the ultimate vacation experience – and Celebrity Xcel stands in a class of her own.”

The ship will sail a range of seven-night voyages across the Bahamas, Mexico, Cayman Islands, Puerto Plata, St. Thomas, and St. Maarten for its inaugural season.

AT WORLD Travel Market 2025, the Dominican Republic’s Vice Minister of Tourism, Jacqueline Mora, celebrated “the crucial role that travel agents play” in maintaining the UK’s status as the destination’s top European source market, with 150,000 Brits already making the trip in 2025.

Full interview at www.travelbulletin.co.uk/news/age nts-remain-central-to-thedominican-republics-uk-success

ZEUS unveils threepillar rebrand

ZEUS INTERNATIONAL Hotels & Resorts Group has streamlined its brand, centring the portfolio's new era around three categories: Flagship, Eleva and Essence.

CEO Haris Siganos introduced the new era. "The Group's new philosophy

centres on keeping the sense of discovery alive one place at a time, developing a connected international community around hospitality and promoting simplicity and authenticity as core principles guiding its renewed operational approach."

ZEUS Flagship properties, as the label's name suggests, are positioned as ambassadors of the brand; the most emblematic experience of both ZEUS' ethos and their respective destinations.

More indulgent properties will fall under the ZEUS Eleva collection, certifying their luxury appeal.

ZEUS Essence hopes to embody the most authentic aspects of their destinations, inviting travellers more opportunities to engage with the local people and communities in ways only the Mediterranean can offer.

AFTER THE Grand Egyptian Museum opened its doors at long last at the beginning of November, Red Sea Holidays guests can now book excursions in-resort to visit. Excursions start from £250 per person. En route, guests will visit the Pyramids of Giza and the Great Sphinx, and enjoy lunch and a papyrus or perfume workshop.

Amadeus River Cruises announces new ship

AMADEUS Mira will sail the Rhine, Main and Danube from 2027, joining sister ship AMADEUS Aurea, which is due to enter service next year.

CEO Wolfgang Lüftner introduced the new ship. "On board our fleet, cutting-edge environmental technology and luxurious design go hand in hand.

“With AMADEUS Mira, we continue this 40year tradition of excellence, meeting the growing global demand for luxury river cruises with contemporary, innovative solutions.”

Wendy Wu Tours runs wild

The ship will be equipped with an upgraded hybrid-electric propulsion system, with solar panels providing supplemental power.

Mira will host 12 suites and 67 cabins with a maximum passenger capacity of 158.

Sales open for the new vessel and wider 2027 season in January.

WENDY WU Tours’ new Wildlife collection spotlights destinations that some of the world's most marvellous creatures call home; until December 1st, tours can be booked with a range of launch offers.

Wildlife will become the fourth pillar of the brand's touring product, alongside Road, Rail, and Cruise & Tour.

Tours are now on sale for 2026 and 2027; limited-time launch offers include free flights or partners flying for free and waived or half-price single supplements on select tours.

Gary King, head of trade sales, said, “For our trade partners, this collection is more than just a new product – it’s a story to tell.”

Get in quick with Newmarket’s deals

NEWMARKET HOLIDAYS’ Black Friday sale ends on December 1st; until then, 15% discounts are available on over 100 tours. Departure dates until 2028 are included, and the operator’s newest tours (and trade bestsellers) are included.

AGENT INCENTIVES

● ALONG WITH at least 30% off thousands of properties on the platform, a limitedtime challenge will see 100,000 Reward points given away to five agents who book over Black Friday. The Black Friday campaign (and associated incentive) run until December 3rd, 2025. Applicable stays must be for travel before December 30th, 2026. The new Expedia TAAP Rewards programme was launched last month in the UK after success in North America; in addition to commission, the reward scheme adds points, redeemable against retail gift cards, to all bookings. Enrolment is not automatic and must be done via the TAAP portal.

● ANY AGENTS booking Ambassador Cruise Line voyages during the Black Friday promotion (before December 1st, 2025) will be entered into a daily prize draw to win a £250 M&S voucher. Email name, booking reference and ABTA numbers to competitions@ambassador cruiseline.com to enter.

● A £20 INCENTIVE and 20% discount campaign across over 900 tours hopes to give agents another reason to sell Intrepid Travel this Black Friday. Bookings confirmed before December 4th, 2025 can qualify for the discount, which applies to a range of tours departing between December 1st, 2025 and September 30th, 2026 (excluding the period between December 18th, 2025 to January 5th, 2026). The tour operator has published full details on how to earn the incentive via its Intrepid Loves Agents Facebook page and its trade hub, where it has also uploaded sales materials, a Black Friday Sale poster, and incentive videos.

Agent bulletin

AHEAD OF a 9% increase in UK capacity next year, Corendon Airlines hosted agents and tour operator partners at its stand at World Travel Market. Representatives from Corendon Airlines were joined by Rory the Tiger (the mascot of Hull City FC, which the airline sponsors) and samples of the in-flight doner kebabs as it hosted agents to wrap up a day on the show floor.

Competition

Find out more at www.travelbulletin.co.uk/bahamas -competition

AGENT TRAINING

● THE EXPEDITION Cruise Network’s Expedition Cruise Academy is a training platform designed to help agents boost their sales in the expedition sector. Agents can choose from free or premium memberships; the latter will upgrade the experience with exclusive destination training opportunities and features that help match client expectations or wishes with the ideal operator or vessel. Free membership enables access to taster training with the network's members and other online resources, including downloadable factsheets and marketing materials. Each taster course follows the same format but includes details on accessing each operator's dedicated training and resources for agents.

● HYATT INCLUSIVE Collection’s Confidant Collective platform serves as a resource to empower agents to become experts in everything the Inclusive Collection offers. Agents can explore an expanded advisor site, learning platforms, marketing assets and a dedicated rewards programme which will unlock a wealth of benefits.

● PALLADIUM PRO rewards agents with points and benefits including individual stays. Points obtained with the PRO programme can also be transferred to a Palladium Rewards account, allowing agents to use their points for discounted rates, and longer stays. Participants will benefit from reward points for bookings and increased engagement on the Palladium platform which can be redeemed for gift cards or hotel stays; special rates; and access to Palladium’s extensive online training system.

● NYC TOURISM + Conventions has bolstered its NYC Travel Trade Academy with a dedicated luxury module and committed to updating its B2B NYC Luxury Guide regularly to support HNWI travel sellers.

Travel Counsellors equipped with new AI assistant

TC CO-PILOT has been developed over the last 18 months, and is now integrated within Travel Counsellors' proprietary booking platform.

Co-Pilot promises a new product experience, offers agents Phenix support, and generates marketing materials

and itineraries with in-depth product knowledge. The tool can also generate tailored packing lists and local recommendations.

Jon Bauer, Travel Counsellors' chief technology officer, introduced the tool.

"The launch of TC Co-Pilot represents a major step forward in how we use AI to support our Travel Counsellors.

“Rather than replacing human expertise, it enhances it, giving our community the tools to work smarter and deliver even more meaningful, personalised service.

"This technology is designed to free up time, spark creativity and strengthen the relationships that sit at the heart of every exceptional travel experience. It’s a reflection of our commitment to innovation that is developed by our community, for our community."

UNIWORLD BOUTIQUE River Cruises stars in the first episode of a new Channel 4 series, Inside the World’s Most Luxurious Cruises. Uniworld is the first cruise line, and the only river cruise line, to be included in the programme; future episodes will spotlight Regent Seven Seas, Cunard and Star Clippers.

Accor to debut new brand in the UK

ACCOR’S NEW luxury brand, Emblems Collection, will debut next year, with an eightproperty pipeline including the launch of a property in the Cotswolds.

Lucknam Park Hotel & Spa, in the Wiltshire countryside, will mark the brand's debut and flagship when it opens in 2026.

It will host 42 rooms and suites on a 500acre property, home to two restaurants (including one Michelin-starred eatery), a

wellness spa and an equestrian centre. Nine luxury cottages are also on site.

Seven further properties are confirmed for the brand's pipeline, with another 15 said to be in advanced negotiations.

Canada will welcome Rimrock Banff to the heart of the Rockies next year; Puglia will play host to Masseria Furnirussi, joined by four further Italian properties; before the final planned property opens in Greece in 2027.

London Gatwick to become 14th Jet2 UK base

THE FIRST Jet2 flight from London Gatwick will take flight on March 26th, 2026, with six Jet2 aircraft set to be stationed at the UK's second-largest airport for the first year of operations.

Steve Heapy, Jet2's CEO, announced the airline's 14th base, describing the launch as "an incredibly exciting moment for Jet2.

“We know all too well how much demand there is amongst customers and independent travel agents for us to operate our award-winning flights and holidays from London Gatwick."

Jet2 becomes the first major leisure airline to launch from London Gatwick since 2020.

Corsican Places halves deposits

CORSICAN PLACES bookings for 2026 confirmed by Christmas Eve will only require a 10% deposit, down from the standard 20%.

The specialist operator will continue to operate an exclusive Sunday charter flight from Gatwick next year.

SUDOKU

Win a £20 M&S voucher in the SuDoku prize puzzle

Fill in all the squares in the grid so that each row, column and each of the 3 x 3 squares contains the digits 1-9.

Once you have completed the puzzle, simply identify the numbers that relate to the letters, A, B, C and D then e-mail the solution, with your name, company name, and full postal address plus phone and ABTA number if applicable to:

competition@travelbulletin.co.uk

Closing date for entries is Thursday, December 11th.

Solution and new puzzle will appear next week.

November 14th Solution: A=5 B=4 C=6 D=9

For all competitions visit http://www.travelbulletin.co.uk/component/r sform/form/1593-Travel-Trivia-Quiz NAMED AFTER the calls of local marmots, this popular destination is home to the largest ski resort in North America, boasting over 8,100 acres of terrain across two Mountains.

1 No-fly cruise line recently voted Travel Bulletin Star Emerging Brand (10) 5 State capital of Wisconsin (7) 8 Luxury hotel brand with a French twist (7) 10 Sydney is the capital, initially (3) 11 Oslo international airport code (3) 13 Montgomery is the state capital (7) 15 North African country, popular for holidays (7)

17 Radiance class cruise ship, ___ of the Seas, sounds dazzling (10

1 Former Lioness turned sports broadcaster, recently seen in the Celebrity jungle (4,5)

2 Alberta town and National Park (5)

3 Singer-song writer, ___ Ryder (3) 4 Fred started this company in 1848 (5)

6 Major US airline (5)

7 City on the Tyne (9)

9 They run alongside Blackpool prom and currently offer a great view of the illuminations (5)

12 A large luxurious passenger ship (5)

14 Capital of Jordan (5)

16 Alderney, Channel Islands airport code (3)

Celebrate Luxury Knaresborough

WHAT BETTER way to wrap up a record year of events than in luxury with Seaside Collection, Vincci Hotels, Gran Canaria, ZEUS International Hotels & Resorts, Abercrombie & Kent, Hotel Botanico, Sentido, Atrium Hotels & Resorts and World of Hyatt Inclusive Collection?!

A huge thank you to the agents who joined us in Knaresborough, as well as the over 2,000 of you we saw at events throughout the year. We couldn’t do it without you!

MSC Cruises’ Black Friday savings

MSC CRUISES guests can earn up to 30% off selected 2025/2026 voyages departing from Southampton, with children sailing from £99 until December 7th, 2025.

Guest can enjoy a seven-night Northern Europe sailing from £399; a seven-night Norwegian Fjords sailing from £599; and a 12-night Canary Islands voyage from £999.

Antonio Paradiso, Vice President of International Sales, described this Black Friday offer as “one of our most competitive offers of the year.”

MSC Voyagers Club members will unlock an extra 5% discount on top.

News Bites

EMIRATES HAS rolled out Starlink Wi-Fi across its entire feet, promising ultra-fast connectivity from the skies.

A NEW site from the team behind My Booking Rewards, MyAgentRates.com, will offer agents exclusive access to trade rates for educational stays.

AUDLEY TRAVEL has announced a new training initiative, Future Faces of Luxury Travel, which offers rising talent the chance to take part in a training programme centred around "shaping confident, curious professionals who understand the nuance of the luxury customer,” according to trade sales manager Sarah Turner.

AGENT INSIGHT

LAURA HAWKE

TRAVEL COUNSELLORS

I’VE JUST returned from the most incredible educational trip to Sri Lanka, and what a whirlwind it was!

In just seven nights, we explored everything from lively Colombo and ancient Sigiriya to misty tea country and the wild plains of Yala. It was a full immersion into the island’s diversity, culture, and charm.

From the warmth of Colombo’s welcome to watching elephants roam freely in Minneriya National Park, every day offered something extraordinary. Climbing Sigiriya Rock at sunrise was tough but truly one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.

The scenery changes constantly, from tropical coastline to cool highlands and rolling tea plantations. Even the long drives were enjoyable, with comfortable vehicles and endless views.

But what truly stood out was the most genuine hospitality. Everywhere we stayed welcomed us with the symbolic lighting of an oil lamp, a small but beautiful gesture of warmth and positivity.

Food was another highlight, from fragrant local curries to elegant dinners in colonial tea hotels.

A new discovery for me was the Pekoe Walking Trail, a 300km hiking route through tea country that’s perfect for adventurers seeking something unique and authentic.

Sri Lanka really does have something to offer for all and works brilliantly as a stand-alone destination, offering wildlife, history, and beaches, but also combines beautifully with the Maldives for the ultimate Indian Ocean escape.

It’s a destination that delivers variety, value, and heart in every sense.

COSMOS’ CANADIAN COLLECTION

GAZE AT the grandeur of Lake Louise or explore the vibrancy of Vancouver with tour operator Cosmos as its 2027 North American tours are now on sale.

Travellers can choose from the Atlantic shores of the Eastern Provinces to the beauty of British Columbia, taking in the vast landscapes and rich cultures that form the beating heart of the destination.

Hyatt Centric’s centurion ambitions

HYATT CENTRIC will debut in Canada in 2026; 135 rooms and suites as well as a coffee shop, restaurant, bar and lounge will open on site as part of the first Hyatt-branded hotel in Victoria.

Hyatt Centric Winnipeg Downtown will follow suit later in 2026, hosting 140 guestrooms and suites, an open-concept lobby hoping to capture the unique Winnipeg spirit, and a signature restaurant and bar.

Both properties are part of an ambitious pipeline that hopes to see the Hyatt Centric label on over 100 hotels around the world by the end of the decade.

For 2027, Cosmos is offering a 10-day ‘Heart of the Canadian Rockies’ tour, taking guests from Calgary to Vancouver with the chance to explore both Banff and Jasper National Parks, Kamloops and Victoria. Activities featured in the tour include a ride aboard the Ice Explorer to the Athabasca Glacier; optional excursions to Maligne Lake and Spirit Island; and the Marine Wildlife & Whale Watching Expedition in Victoria. Prices lead in from £2,699 for the Land & Air package departing in April 2027.

For those looking for an adventure on the east coast, Cosmos’ 11-day ‘Ontario & French Canada with Ocean Train to Halifax’ itinerary takes guests through

Connecting the capitals

Toronto, Ottawa, Quebec and Montreal before taking an overnight VIA Rail’s Ocean Train to Halifax. During the tour, guests will see Niagara Falls up close on a sightseeing cruise and visit Peggy’s Cove, the Basilica de Notre Dame du Cap, and enjoy guided tours through the major cities. Prices lead in from £2,339 for an April 2027 departure. Cosmos also offers the chance to see the ‘Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth’ –the Calgary Stampede in its 12-day ‘National Parks of the Northwest with Calgary Stampede’ tour. The Stampede brings the Wild West back to life, featuring entertainment, exhibits, and the world-famous Rodeo. Prices start from £3,069 for a July 2027 departure.

NEXT SUMMER, Air Transat will find a new home in the UK capital where the airline will offer a direct service to Ottawa from London Gatwick – the first in the airline’s history.

From May 15th, 2026, Air Transat will operate three times per week out of the London hub to the Canadian capital, strengthening not only the airline’s portfolio, but expanding transatlantic travel for all holidaymakers.

A season of mountain milestones

2025/26 IS not only set to be a busy year for Whistler’s slopes, but also for its calendar of celebrations: Whistler Mountain marks its 60th anniversary of welcoming skiers and subsequently becoming one of the world’s most beloved skiing destinations. Its neighbour, Blackcomb Mountain, is also donning a celebratory spirit as it marks its 45th year of operation.

Operator Whistler Heli-Skiing Adventures is commemorating its 45th year, while the unique Peak to Valley race is also celebrating its 40th

Last days remaining for Pan Pacific deals

THERE ARE only a few days left to take advantage of Pan Pacific’s Black Friday sale where guests can save up to 30% on select hotels and resorts across Australia and Canada. The offer is available for bookings made by December 3rd, 2025, for stays until September 30th, 2026. Some of the hotels featured include Pan Pacific Vancouver, Pan Pacific Toronto and Pan Pacific Whistler Village Centre.

Feel inspired in a Winter Wonderland

AN ENCHANTING journey through Canada’s western provinces awaits with Inspiring Travel’s 14-night ‘Western Canada’s Winter Wonderland’ itinerary.

Luxury blends in seamlessly with nature on this tailored itinerary, allowing guests to explore the beauty of Banff and Lake Louise while staying in the iconic Fairmont Banff Springs, and exploring the charming Sun Peaks ski resort.

Guests will first arrive in Calgary where they can catch an ice hockey game or try their own hand on the ice. Next, guests will head to Banff to either spend some time relaxing in the heated pools or sharing smores around the campfire before hitting the slopes. Other options available include ice skating on Lake Louise, sleigh rides, tubing and dog sledding.

Next on the agenda is time in Whistler, where guests can hit the slopes in one of the world’s most famous resorts, and even

enjoy a zip-lining experience through the treetops. A quick overnight stop in Vancouver before rounding out the trip at Sun Peaks completes the 14-day adventure. Prices lead in from £5,570 per person, including all accommodation, domestic and international flights.

Save 10% with Rocky Mountaineer’s Black Friday sale

ROCKY MOUNTAINEER’S Black Friday promotion is offering guests the chance to save up to £175 per person when booking two-to-three-day rail only journeys, and up to £275 per person for longer packages.

Those wishing to see the breath-taking vistas of the Rocky Mountains in luxurious style can choose the new Passage to Peaks journey which is available for a limited time during the summer. The journey begins and ends in the magical mountain towns of Banff and Jasper, allowing guests to

immerse in the evergreen forests and glacial lakes that offer postcard-perfect views.

Passage to Peaks is the only Rocky Mountaineer journey which doesn’t extend to the West Coast. Instead, guests will stay over in Kamloops before travelling to either Banff or Jasper. Highlights of the itinerary include witnessing the dramatic scenery of the Continental Divide; climbing Yellowhead Pass; journeying through Pyramid Falls, Mount Robson, Rogers Pass, and Kicking Horse Canyon; and travelling through the Spiral Tunnels. Guests will also see the glaciers and snow-capped peaks that are renowned within the Rockies.

Prices for the two-day Passage to Peaks journey lead in from £1,545 per person, including the saving offer, in SilverLeaf Service. The offer is valid for bookings made before December 4th, 2025.

Kelowna: the heart of Canadian gastronomy

LOCATED IN the heart of British Columbia, Kelowna is beginning a new chapter for culinary excellence as the city becomes the first UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy in Canada. From sustainable farming to Indigenous traditions, Kelowna is known for its rich gastronomy offering, with vineyards and orchards stretching across the land. Mayor Tom Dyas said, “This recognition confirms what those in the Okanagan Valley have known for decades— Kelowna is a world-class centre for agriculture, culinary arts, and beverages.”

London to Ottawa year-round

EARLIER THIS year, Air Canada confirmed its direct route between London Heathrow and Ottawa will continue throughout the winter 2025/2026 season to ensure year-round connectivity between the capitals.

The route will operate three times per week, with frequency increasing to four weekly services from March 2026 to accommodate for bolstered demand in the summer.

WestJet makes Scottish return with Toronto route

AFTER FOUR years, WestJet is returning to the Scottish shores of Glasgow with a direct service to Toronto launching in summer next year.

From May 15th, 2026, WestJet will operate four weekly services to the Canadian city from Glasgow, strengthening the links between both countries and providing further connectivity across the airline’s vast Canadian network.

Matt Hazlewood, chief commercial officer at AGS Airports, said, “The airline’s decision to re-establish this route highlights its confidence in the Glasgow market and demonstrates the strong demand that clearly exists from both leisure and business passengers for transatlantic connectivity.”

Alex von Hoenbroech, WestJet’s chief executive officer, said Toronto serves as a “natural connector for international travel, and we look forward to the two-way travel

opportunities that will come from one of WestJet’s biggest investments in the region.”

Glasgow plays a prominent role in WestJet’s story since it became the first UK airport the airline operated from when it first took flight in 2015.

Save 15% on Newmarket Holidays’ Canadian

adventures

THERE IS still time to explore the vast Canadian landscape for 15% less with Newmarket’s Black Friday sale, which applies to several best-selling tours across North America.

The 10-day ‘Canada’s Maple Leaf Trail’ takes travellers to some of the country’s eastern wonders, including the Toronto waterfront, the historic city of Ottawa, and Niagara Falls. Prices lead in from £2,403 per person, with departures available from June 2026. Travellers can fly from either London

Heathrow, Manchester or Edinburgh airports.

The 11-day ‘Canadian Rockies Tour’ offers travellers the chance to take in the breathtaking beauty of British Columbia and the majesty of Banff. Guests will also spend two nights in the alpine town of Jasper, visit Lake Louise and spend a night in the Sun Peaks mountain resort. Prices lead in from £2,470 per person, with departures available from May 2026.

Newmarket Holidays also offers the chance for guests to experience the luxury of the Rocky Mountaineer in an 11-day itinerary. The tour kicks off in Calgary with optional sightseeing tours to Banff, before a journey aboard Rocky Mountaineer to Vancouver and a ferry onwards to Victoria. Prices lead in from £4,505 per person, with departures available from May 2026.

The sale runs until December 1st, 2025.

Maple leaf-shaped savings

TORONTO, MONTREAL, Quebec City and Niagara Falls star in Canadian Sky’s 14-day escorted tour of ‘East Coast USA and Canada’, which is currently on offer at £5,329 per person (down from £5,904 per person). Despite the £575 per person savings, no expense has been spared on ticking off the icons of Canada.

A boat ride to the heart of the Horseshoe Falls begins the Canadian leg of the tour in bucket list fashion. The grandeur of the Falls is complemented by an evening soaking in Niagara-on-the-Lake’s small-town charm.

En route to Toronto on the following day, guests can don full ice hockey gear on a behind-the-scenes stadium tour in Oakville.

An afternoon in Toronto allows for adequate time in the city that demands exploration, from the heights of the CN Tower to the vibrant art and food scene on the ground.

Onwards to Ottawa, a tour of the city highlights the blend of elegant architecture on Parliament Hill and modern museums and galleries in the downtown.

Quebec City’s cobblestones are next on the itinerary: a local guide will uncover the city’s history before a free afternoon.

Montreal ends the journey’s Canadian leg in suitable elegant fashion, with a local specialist on-hand to ensure the end to guests’ time in Canada is one to remember.

Ottawa’s night sky to come alive in 2026

NUIT BLANCHE Ottawa, an event returning to the city’s calendar in October 2026, hopes to bring the nighttime sky alive with light installations, digital projections, interactive art, and live performances.

Local artists, from technologists to cultural powerhouses, have been recruited

for the show, which hopes to put Ottawa on the map as an international hub for creativity and cultural exchange.

Next year’s edition, which marks the first since 2015, will take place in and around ByWard Market, with ambitions to expand the event in the future.

A Saskatoon icon reimagined

SASKATOON’S DELTA Hotels

Bessborough will reopen in autumn after a full renovation. Upon reopening, the hotel will join Marriott’s Autograph Collection.

Delta Bessborough was built by the Canadian National Railway before opening in 1935, when it was the tallest building in Saskatoon.

The renovation has seen all 225 rooms and public spaces upgraded and updated, and a new dining concept will open onsite.

SWAN HELLENIC’S SETI

Institute: Explore Space at Sea Series sees expedition experts join guests on board in 2026. From May 18th to 29th, 2026, astrobiologist Simon George will join guests as SH Vega sails along the Newfoundland coast to Greenland and Iceland: on-board lectures include ‘Living Under Ice and Beside Volcanoes — Life in Extreme Conditions’. Prices start from £5,205 per person.

Indian Ocean Showcase

HOWAY! WE were lucky enough to welcome the best agents from across the North East to our Indian Ocean Showcase earlier this month— the last of our evening events for 2025. A huge thank you to all of the agents and Abercrombie & Kent, Attitude, JW Marriott Kaafu Atoll Island Resort, Travelsphere, Phen Phen Maa Travel, Sun Siyam Resorts and The Seychelles for joining us!

If speed networking, dinner & drinks weren’t enough, some lucky souls left with prize stays, themed goodies and gift vouchers after our famed prize bingo and brand quiz!

Our #TBShowcases roster will return in 2026! To secure your place or find out when we will be hosting our next event near you, vist www.travelbulletin.co.uk/events

Indian ocean

A SEA OF RESORTS

Sun Siyam’s brand ‘revolution’ hopes to make the brand stand out from the rest

AT WORLD Travel Market, Sun Siyam’s group deputy managing director, Zuley Manik, celebrated the brand’s recent revolution, which hopes to tell the Sun Siyam story in a new way and give agents even more reason to sell the resort brand’s portfolio.

The brand’s revolution, Zuley explained, is rooted in its spirit of the

30% off with JA Resorts’ Black Friday sale

TRAVELLERS CAN save up to 30% on stays across JA Resorts & Hotels’ portfolio this Black Friday.

Guests can stay at JA Manafaru at the northern tip of the Maldives for a truly authentic experience, or head to the Seychelles for a stay at JA Enchanted Island Resort for a tropical escape within the Saint Anne Marine Park.

The promotion will run until December 3rd, 2025.

Members of the brand’s loyalty programme, JA Discovery, can enjoy exclusive benefits including an additional 10% off, bringing total savings up to 40%.

region’s famed hospitality and natural beauty. “We have always promoted the beauty and the warmth of the Maldives and its people. Now, with over 1,500 rooms between our six resorts, we thought it was a good opportunity to bring a little extra TLC to our properties, and give people more to talk about.

“Some things that we have done is to enhanced our signature experiences, ensuring they tell the story of the Maldives—so from the moment guests arrive, that’s where the Sun Siyam hospitality starts for them.”

The opportunity “to interact with travel agents and offer them a lot more in the

way of resources and reasons to convince guests to come” was front of mind during the reimagination. “The Maldives is a sea of resorts, right? So there has to be something that makes us stand out to agents & their clients.”

To help agents understand exactly where each resort sits in that “sea of resorts,” Sun Siyam has streamlined its portfolio into three distinct groups: Luxury Collection is home to the ultimate island indulgence, Lifestyle Collection promises energy and entertainment unmatched by the region, and Privé Collection, home of intimate barefoot experiences made for romantic escapes.

New deluxe option in the Maldives

KANDOLHU MALDIVES is introducing a brand-new luxury villa for holidaymakers looking to make the most out of their island escape. The refurbished Deluxe Ocean Pool Villa offers an elevated experience steeped in luxury and privacy, featuring a spacious bedroom and an open-plan bathroom with a bathtub overlooking the ocean. Prices lead in from around £705 per night for a stay in February 2026.

A cinematic celebration of love

NOVA MALDIVES is inviting lovebirds to step into the ‘Golden Age of Love’ in its new Valentine’s Day programme.

The three-date event is inspired by the timeless nature of retro rom-coms, promising couples a curated series of romantic experiences against the island’s serene backdrop.

Each day begins with a sunrise cruise through a protected ocean reserve where couples can sit back and bask in the beauty of their surroundings.

Romeo & Juliet Sandbank Escapes and romantic picnics offer an intimate private island experience, while the Golden Hour Photo Walk offers guests the chance to wander through the lush scenery in the evening glow.

Throughout the week, couples can start their day with an in-villa Champagne Lagoon Breakfast, followed by an evening

Hearts by the Beach Dinner. The Indulgent Intimacy Gala Beach Dinner promises an elegant, starlit occasion worthy of the big screen, complete with candlelight and slow dancing beneath the stars.

Nova’s Cinema Under the Stars will play classic romance films every evening, and the event will end with the Love Oasis celebration.

Lead-in rates begin from £644 per night in a Sunset Beach Villa with Jacuzzi for the Valentine’s Day weekend.

Four Seasons Mauritius now open

FOUR SEASONS Resort Mauritius at Anahita opened its doors this month following an extensive redesign. Guests will now be welcomed with re-imagined villas, and enhanced spa and seven reconceptualised eateries.

Martin Dell, general manager of the

property, described the renovation as “an exciting new chapter for our resort, where every space has been reimagined to connect more deeply with the beauty and spirit of Mauritius [...] every detail reflects our commitment to preserving this incredible destination.”

Travel makes the heart happy

WITH 85% of Brits stating that travel contributes to their longterm happiness, G Adventures has released its new ‘Travel Your Heart Out: Happiness List 2026’ that looks beyond the typical travel data and instead focusses on experiences that bring the most heartwarming fulfilment.

In a bid to make 2026 the happiest year to date, the operator has selected 10 new experiences based on consumer research about what and where makes them feel the happiest. One of the experiences on the list is the seven-day ‘Sailing Sri Lanka South Coast’ itinerary where guests can sleep under the stars, swim in clear blue waters and sit back while the waves rock them to a serene state of relaxation. The itinerary takes guest along the country’s southern coast, exploring remote beach towns, fishing villages and historic sites while watching the marine life pass by.

Prices lead in from £1,259.

Sri Lanka earns top spot in Mercury Holidays’ long-haul league

OVER HALF (52%) of long-haul stays booked with Mercury Holidays of more than 14 nights are for Sri Lanka, making it by far the operator’s most popular long-haul, long-stay destinaton.

The destination continues to perform impressively among solos, too; 45% of solo travellers booking visit the pearl of the Indian Ocean.

Among the operator’s popular portfolio of Sri Lankan accommodation sits, on the nation’s west coast, Tangerine Beach.

The property’s polished floors and impressive pillars call back to a time long past; nearby Kalutara embodies that spirit with old colonial buildings and local markets primed for souvenir shopping and memory making.

14-night stays, including flights from London Heathrow, lead in from £1,022 per person based on an April 30th, 2026 departure on bed-andbreakfast basis.

Select special offers, including free second or third weeks depending on stay durations for room-only rates, and a 12% early bird discount, bolster the resort’s affordability.

W Maldives’ coral calendar

A LANDMARK week of sustainable events just wrapped up at W Maldives; guests staying from October 26th, 2025 onwards had the opportunity to enjoy a screening and mix-and-mingle session with wildlife filmmaker Kaushiik Subramaniam and get involed as the resort team installed 400 reef stars and 6,000 coral fragments in the resort’s house reef with sustainability manager Harald Schaller. Guests who missed out can still enjoy guided snorkeling sessions through the house reef year-round.

Did you bag any Black Friday bargains?

Jeanette Ratcliffe Publisher jeanette.ratcliffe@travelbulletin.co.uk Two iPads so far!

Simon Eddolls Sales Director simon.eddolls@travelbulletin.co.uk

Not yet but it all seems to go from this to pre/post-Xmas sales so I’m sure to get inolved.

Sarah Terry Account Manager sarah.terry@travelbulletin.co.uk None it’s all a con!

Tim Podger Account Manager - Far East tim.podger@travelbulletin.co.uk No.

Matthew Hayhoe Assistant Editor matthew.rhayhoe@travelbulletin.co.uk Nope!

Melissa Paddock Events Coordinator melissa.paddock@travelbulletin.co.uk

Leah Kelly Deputy Editor leah.kelly@travelbulletin.co.uk

For myself definitely, but for other people’s presents ...

Holly Brown Events Coordinator holly.brown@travelbulletin.co.uk Oner active leggings. EVENTS events@travelbulletin.co.uk

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