OCTOBER 16 2026 | ISSUE NO 4303
Giving agents the edge
Escorted Touring Learn more about some of the world’s most undiscovered gems.
more in... Agent Bulletin The latest incentives and training initiatives to help you make the most out of the autumn season. (Pg.7) Family Holidays Multigenerational gems across the globe. (Pg. 19)
Selling sustainability doesn’t have to be a compromise, according to this Travel Counsellor. (Pg. 10)
Where journeys meet the stars...
Introducing
LUMINA Scan here to begin
Find out more at leger.co.uk/lumina
019231
A new flagship touring experience
Order your brochures from BP TradeGate
NEWS BULLETIN
OCTOBER 16 2026 | travelbulletin.co.uk
04
3
this week
NEWS Stay ahead of the curve with the latest headlines from across the travel trade.
07
THE YEAR OF FEELING
AGENT BULLETIN
Lemongrass has revealed its 2027 Travel Trend Report, highlighting how travellers are moving away from bucket lists and towards more emotive experiences.
Find out how you can win big this month!
12
TRAVEL IN 2027 is set to become less about
lighting and acoustics to nature, nutrition
ticking destinations off a list and more about
and movement to create more restorative
how the experience makes people feel,
environments.
according to Lemongrass Marketing’s latest Travel Trend Report.
from bucket lists to ‘depth lists’, with expert-
The report identifies 15 trends expected to
ELITE CONFERENCE Elite Travel brought members together for a very special occasion.
ESCORTED TOURING Learn from the best in the business while exploring some of the world’s hidden treasures.
19
led experiences, cultural trails and local
influence the industry over the next 12
conversations offering an alternative to AI-
months, pointing to a shift away from
generated destination information. As
packed itineraries, and the notion of ‘more is
technology makes research easier, first-hand
more’ travel.
knowledge and human expertise are
At the heart of the findings are five overarching themes, including human
15
The report also predicts a move away
sustainability, depth and meaning, joy and
expected to become increasingly valuable in an AI world. Meanwhile, luxury is becoming more
connection, trust in an AI world, and
considered, with travellers choosing where
intentional consumption.
to spend and where to compromise, while
Among the trends is the rise of the ‘anti-
climate change is influencing destination
optimised holiday’, with travellers seeking
choices and encouraging demand for more
longer stays, fewer destinations and more
adaptable locations.
down time.
Other trends include the ‘joy economy’,
Wellness is also evolving, with ‘nervous
citizen science, female-led travel, meaningful
system design’ seeing hotels and
conservation experiences and the growing
destinations focus on everything from
appeal of closer-to-home journeys.
FAMILY HOLIDAYS Multi-generational gems from across the world.
Published by : Alain Charles Publishing (Travel) Ltd University House, 11-13 Lower Grosvenor Place London, SW1W 0EX
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020 7973 0136 www.travelbulletin.co.uk
@TravelBulletin @TravelBulletin Travel_Bulletin
Showcase Calendar
OCTOBER 16 2026 | travelbulletin.co.uk Sign up to our showcases: www.travelbulletin.co.uk/events/agents
November 18th
January 19th
January 20th
Indian Ocean Showcase
Train & Gain
Africa Showcase
Harrogate
Reigate
Bristol
November 19th Celebrate Luxury
Manchester
Visit Orlando launches UK initiative VISIT ORLANDO has announced an
taking place from October 23rd-25th at
integrated campaign to expand its presence
Westfield Stratford City in London.
in the UK and Ireland. The initiative is set to
Following this, the company is holding
combine consumer advertising, an
two events in London and Dublin, ‘Elevate
experimental activation, a national holiday
Orlando Live’, for travel advisors and
giveaway, and dedicated travel trade
industry partners in the two cities, giving
events.
them the opportunity to network, as well as
It includes ‘Play Your Way to Orlando’, a free Orlando-themed mini golf experience
provide destination updates and product news.
JTA Holidays expands into the Irish market JTA HOLIDAYS is expanding beyond the UK market for the first time with the launch of JTA Holidays Ireland, providing Irish travel agents with access to an extensive product range.
Explore Sri Lanka with Railbookers
The move marks a new stage in the development of
RAILBOOKERS HAS launched
beauty and year-round
range of products from JTA Holidays and Belleair
two new itineraries in Sri Lanka
warmth. ‘Highlights of Sri
Holidays, as well as competitive pricing, dedicated trade
to expand its worldwide
Lanka’ and ‘The Best of Sri
support, agent rewards and a programme of incentives
collection of independent rail
Lanka’ are set to showcase the
and competitions.
holidays.
island’s diversity, covering
The destination is becoming increasingly popular among UK travellers, with its combination of culture, wildlife, natural
A programme of trade activity will follow the launch,
cities, temples, jungles,
including agent training, supplier events, and visits
beaches, and more.
across the Republic of Ireland. Some of the competitions
Both tours feature a railway journey from Kandy to Ella.
will give agents the chance to win a 10-night Orlando holiday, a weekend in Athens, and a place on a fam trip.
Image Credits:T op: Visit Orlando, Bottom: Canva Pro
JTA Travel Group. Irish agents will have access to a wide
NEWS BULLETIN
OCTOBER 16 2026 | travelbulletin.co.uk
VIVA Cruises launches first agent selling guide VIVA CRUISES has launched its first dedicated
offers.
agent selling guide, highlighting the brand’s
A demographics section contains a list of
key USPs, fleet information, key cabin and
common customer profiles and preferences
suite features, and details of VIVA’s all-
to help agents when discussing potential
inclusive offerings.
options with their clients.
The guide will also include a dedicated
Michelle Daniels, Director of Sales, UK &
section for the VIVA Boutique programme,
Ireland and Australia and New Zealand, said,
which outlines itineraries on the new ships
“Our new travel agent selling guide is very
VIVA BEYOND and VIVA UNIQUE, as well as
much the result of feedback from our trade
additional onboard benefits the programme
partners.”
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BA adds extra services to Antigua and Barbuda TRAVEL COUNSELLORS has expanded its programme of product trips with a new series of
BRITISH AIRWAYS has announced an increase in services between Gatwick and Antigua through April 2027. The airline will extend its daily
immersive experiences across
winter schedule to add over 3,000 seats to give travellers more flexibility to
India and Bhutan. This comes as
experience the destination.
part of the UK’s largest and
British Airways is set to operate daily between Gatwick and Antigua’s
fastest-growing technology
V.C. Bird International Airport over April, covering Antigua Sailing Week
platform for travel entrepreneurs’ strategy to invest in first-hand destination knowledge and
from April 21st to 25th, 2027. This comes after a continual increase in UK visitor numbers to Antigua
expertise across its community.
and Barbuda, with 53,439 stay-over visitors between January and August
Each itinerary is designed to
this year, 11.2% higher than 2025.
deepen destination knowledge, strengthen supplier relationships,
USAirtours reports best-ever summer
Image Credits: Top: VIVA Cruises, Bottom Left: Travel Counsellors, Bottom Right: Adobe Stock
and give Travel Counsellors greater insight and confidence
USAIRTOURS HAS seen a
when creating personalised trips
record-breaking August and
for their customers.
September, with a 60%
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increase in revenues. /-(( ((0). ' % # % "( $ ,-)0,,. .2/ 2/& 0*.2/& 0 0 (- 0
The trade-only tour operator saw revenues increase by 60% year-onyear, making it the best-ever
combining great people with
August and September
marketing-leading tools,
trading period.
incentives and training, we’re
Guy Novik, Founder of USAirtours, said, “By
giving agents more reasons to book with us.”
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5
NEWS BULLETIN
OCTOBER 16 2026 | travelbulletin.co.uk
KLM announces winter expansion KLM HAS announced it will be flying to 164 destinations across the world this winter. The Dutch airline is operating more flights to popular destinations, increasing capacity, as well as relaunching past routes. Between October 25th, 2026, and March 27th, 2027, KLM will fly to 164 destinations in 64 countries, 93 of which are within Europe, and 71 are intercontinental.
ANTIGUA AND Barbuda has been elected as the new Chair of the Caribbean Tourism Organisation, with Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Transportation and Investment, Charles ‘Max’ Fernadez assuming leadership of the CTO Council of Ministers and Commissioners of Tourism.
Silversea unveils 103 new sailings THE CRUISE line has revealed new sailings
said, “Our Voyage Collection 2028-2029 offers
within its Voyage Collection 2028-2029,
industry-leading depth across every region.
including new culinary options and a South
Guests can select a voyage designed around
American circumnavigation.
a culinary season through our new S.A.L.T.
Spanning from September 2028 to May
Culinary Voyages, take on an entire continent
akers h s s r e mov
2029, the programme comprises 103 voyages
aboard Silver Nova during Grand South
across 219 destinations in 56 countries,
America 2029, or spend an afternoon on the
including 29 new ports of call across the
exclusive island of Canouan, where our
Mediterranean, the Caribbean, Asia, Australia,
Destination Experience carries guests from a
SOLMAR VILLAS has appointed Lydia Taylor as the new Sales Development Executive after spending three years in the operations department. Lydia will cover trade sales responsibilities while providing wider support across distribution channels.
and New Zealand, and South America.
Carnival welcome to a beachside
PENNY NAOUM has been appointed by ZEUS to strengthen its UK and Ireland presence through Integrated Sales, marketing and PR representation as the group focuses on luxury positioning in the UK market.
Bert Hernandez, President of Silversea,
celebration.”
easyJet launches new flights from Aberdeen EASYJET HAS announced two new international routes to run from Aberdeen International Airport next summer. The airline is set to launch two new summer routes from the Scottish airport to Barcelona, and to Mallorca, giving customers across Scotland more choice when travelling to Europe. Flights to Barcelona will launch on March 31st, 2027, and operate twice weekly on Wednesdays and Saturdays, marking the first and only direct
Trafalgar searches for a Godmother
connection between the two cities. The service to Mallorca will start on May 3rd, operating on Thursdays and Sundays, with prices leading in at
TRAFALGAR IS launching a search
£35.48. Prices for flights to Barcelona start at £38.48.
for the Godmother of its latest ship, Trafalgar Dreamer, ahead of her debut on the Seine next year. The brand is inviting past guests to submit a meaningful story or memory from their travels for the chance to become part of history.
Movers & Shakers: Top: Solmar Villas, Bottom: Penny Naoum
&
Image Credits: Top: CTO, Top Left: Canva Pro, Bottom Right: Trafalgar, Bottom: easyJet
6
AGENT BULLETIN
OCTOBER 16 2026 | travelbulletin.co.uk
AGENT INCENTIVES •
JUST GO! Holidays is offering one travel agent the chance to win a UK festive break for two. The winner can choose from any of the company’s five-day ‘Tinsel & Turkey’ breaks around the UK. To be in with a chance of winning, agents must make a booking during October for any of the operator’s festive breaks, meaning the more bookings made, the higher the chances of winning.
•
AUDLEY TRAVEL has kicked off its end-of-year incentive and this year is one for the books: a whopping £20,000 voucher is up for grabs, doubling last year’s prize. Any agents who confirm bookings with Audley before December 14th, 2026, will be entered into the draw to win the grand prize. One runner-up will also be given the chance to join the operator’s 2027 agent trip to Egypt.
•
Image Credits: Ambassador Cruise Line
•
IN CONJUNCTION with Marriott, Expedia TAAP is offering agents the chance to win a night at the O2 to see Suede & Manic Street Preachers this November. Agents must book Marriott properties through Expedia TAAP throughout October for a chance to win. The prize includes dinner at Marriott Canary Wharf, and tickets to the concert on November 6th, 2026, which the winners will experience from the Marriott Bonvoy Suite. The top 12 selling agents will be selected after the promotion ends on October 31st. UK TRAVEL agents who are eager to experience Grenada for themselves are in with a chance, as the Grenada Tourism Authority has launched the ‘Meet Me in Grenada’ initiative. The offer is open to agents who already sell the destination or are keen to promote it. Places are capped at 15 and will be allocated on a firstcome, first-served basis. The promotion is available for travel from now until the end of the year.
Agent
AGENT TRAINING •
RIVIERA TRAVEL has officially launched Riv Rewards, an exclusive new agent loyalty programme designed to maximise trade partnerships by offering lucrative points, incentives, and VIP experiences. Available through the Riviera Explorer platform, agents who achieve Passionista training status can begin earning one Riv Point for every £1 of eligible commissionable revenue on qualifying bookings. The programme features four tiers — Blue, Silver, Gold, and Platinum —that unlock benefits including fam trips, personal travel discounts, and free cruises.
•
THE DISCOVER Dominica Authority (DDA) has launched a new destination training course for UK travel agents. The course takes place via Online Travel Training (OTT), and is designed to give advisors both the knowledge and the confidence to sell Dominica to clients. The module covers seven tourism pillars: adventure, health and wellness, romance, aqua, culture, events and entertainment, plus Agro and Kalinago. Advisors who successfully complete the training will receive a Certificate of Completion.
•
AMBASSADOR CRUISE Line has officially launched its brand-new Trade Portal, making it easier for travel agent partners to search, book, and manage sailings. To build the system, Ambassador reviewed the existing booking journey from an agent’s perspective, and made adjustments tailored to their specific needs and requirements. The final produce is a one-stop shop that brings cruise search, booking management, live campaigns, incentives, training, downloadable marketing assets, ship visit requests, and business support together in one place. Trade partners will have their own secured accounts, providing more personalised access to the Portal.
bulletin
AMBASSADOR CRUISE Line hosted 40 of its trade partners aboard Renaissance in Barcelona last month for its second Extreme Day Trip, offering agents an exclusive opportunity to experience the ship first-hand ahead of her return to the Caribbean. The trip welcomed agents from across the UK, including the South West, Wales, Northern Ireland and the North.
n o i t i t e p m o C Stay up to date with the latest competitions over on our website at: www.travelbulletin.co.uk/ competitions
7
PUZZLE BULLETIN
OCTOBER 16 2026 | travelbulletin.co.uk
SUDOKU
Win a £20 M&S voucher in the SuDoku prize puzzle
A
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:
B C
competition@travelbulletin.co.uk Closing date for entries is Thursday, October 29th. Solution and new puzzle will appear next week. October 2nd Solution: B=3 C=7 D=2 ForA=5 all competitions visit http://www.travelbulletin.co.uk/component/r sform/form/1593-Travel-Trivia-Quiz
D
where
am i ? HOME TO two of Portugal’s 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, this city is a historic staple where architecture meets lush forested mountains.
Across
Down
1
1
5
7 8 10 11 12 13
16 17
Welsh actor Michael, and recent Celebrity Traitors contestant (5) 2 One of the five Great Lakes (7) 3 Flows through the city of Glasgow (5) 4 Bangkok is the capital (8) 6 One of the flag carriers of the UAE (8) 9 US state, known as Sweet Home ___ (7) 12 Belgium port city famed for its medieval architecture (5) 14 Bryan who had a major hit with (Everything I Do) I Do It For You (5)
Across: 1 SHERATON, 5 ELEGANT, 7 HAY, 8 NAIRA, 10 RHINE, 11 LEI, 12 GHANA, 13 OSAKA, 15 EYE, 16 ARCADIA, 17 BARBADOS. Down: 1 SHEEN, 2 ONTARIO, 3 CLYDE, 4 THAILAND, 6 EMIRATES, 9 ALABAMA, 12 GHENT, 14 ADAMS. Mystery Word: SIENA
Image Credits: Canva Pro
15
Venue for the Travel Bulletin 2026 Star Awards event, ___ Grand (8) Chester based operator specialising in bespoke luxury holidays, ___ Resorts (7) Located on the river Wye, it's known as the Town of Books (3) Currency of Nigeria (5) Major river which forms a border with a number of European countries (5) Traditional Hawaiian garland (3) Accra is the capital (5) Japanese city best known for its food and nightlife (5) ourist attraction overlookng the Thames, London ___ (3) P&O cruise ship (7) Bridgetown is the capital of this Caribbean island (8)
CROSSWORD
FILL IN THE CROSSWORD TO REVEAL THE MYSTERY LOCATION HIGHLIGHTED BY THE PURPLE SQUARES.
9
NEWS BULLETIN
T N E G A IGHT
S N I
Visit Sweden debuts ‘Introvert Travel Agency’ to drive trade growth VISIT SWEDEN has officially launched ‘The Introvert Travel Agency’ tailored to the 48% of UK travellers who identify as introverted, for agents to seamlessly expand their wellness portfolios.
DAN HYAMS
Operating as both a digital booking platform and an
TRAVEL COUNSELLOR
Sweden’s uncrowded landscapes and relaxed social culture
WHEN CLIENTS walk into a conversation about luxury
directly to key European markets.
tailor-made trips or honeymoons, "sustainability" is never
The highly anticipated physical pop-up tour will first activate
the word on their lips. They want "unforgettable
in Berlin until October 17th, move to Paris from October 21st-
experiences", "seamless planning", and "to make lifelong
24th, and then conclude in London from October 28th-31st.
immersive physical pop-up, the campaign will bring
memories". As travel advisors, our role isn't to lecture them on travelling responsibly, sustainability and ethics (not all the time at least!); it’s to show them that conscious choices naturally elevate their holiday.
s e t i B s w e N
In my day-to-day conversations, I rarely open with a
• CELEBRITY CRUISES has reduced FlyCruise airfares on a wide
spiel about carbon footprints or offset schemes. Instead, I
range of 2027 European sailings, offering discounts across
introduce sustainability organically by focusing on quality
multiple departure airports including London Gatwick and
and authenticity. What tends to resonate most with clients is the human connection. For agents looking to navigate these conversations effectively, here are three practical tips I've learnt to adopt: “Sell the benefit, not the feature": This was an invaluable line from Jamie Burr, by reframing the
Manchester. • ROYALTON HOTELS & Resorts is rewarding agents with Triple and Double cash bonuses to be used across its resort portfolio, in a two-tier booking incentive where they can earn up to £60 on every single room booked by the end of October across Royalton’s West Indies offering.
conversation to pitch the benefit, service, and unique nature of a property first, then subsequently linking in its positive local footprint as an added value has clients already onto your way of thinking. Make small swaps feel seamless: Suggest subtle upgrades such as choosing rail over a domestic flight for scenic routes, or opting for local boutique stays instead of large, multi-nationals that enhance the journey without sacrificing comfort but instead may elevate the personal touch to their stay. Know your partners: Build strong relationships with suppliers who embed genuine sustainability into their operations, so you can recommend them with absolute confidence. Ultimately, selling sustainable travel in practice isn't asking clients to compromise. It’s about curating exceptional, thoughtful journeys where doing good and having the trip of a lifetime go hand in hand."
NOT JUST Travel has seen cruise sales increase by 38% after ‘Cruise Month’ lifted its sales share to 23%. The homeworking network invested in a month-long focus on cruise and saw more than four times the 9% growth across the business. Cruise Month featured dedicated training, partner promotions, and consumer activity, resulting in cruise accounting for 23% of sales in the month, up 18% from the year before.
Image Credits: Top: Visit Sweden, Bottom: Canva Pro
10
TAKE K YOUR PIC CK N E W C R U I SE S NO W ON S AL LE D i s c ov e r m o r e i n e ve r y j o u r n e y
Book early with confidence with our FREEDOM F FA ARE PRIC E PROMISE Find out more. Book by 4th November.
Visit fredolsencruises.com/agent *T Te erms and Conditions apply. Free dom Fare Price Promise: applicable to new bookings only made from 07/10/26 to 0 4/1 1 /2026 , inclusive, on new 2028 s ailings depar ting from 01 /01 /2028 to 01 /0 6/2028 . Free dom Fare Price Promise base d on Free dom Fare prices for the cruise shown on Fre d. O l sen Cruise Lines’ website only; third par t y websites , char ters , exclusive s ailing, T To o u r O p e r a to r h o l i d a y s & e x t e r n a l m e m b e r s h i p b e n e fi t s are exclude d from the Free dom Fare Price Promise. For our Free dom Fare Price Promise, if the cruise price of your cabin grade bo oke d is re duce d, you will receive either a compliment ar y up grade (subject to avail abilit y) or on board sp end to the value of the price difference. E& OE .
ELITE TRAVEL BRINGS FRESH FORMAT TO MEMBERS ELITE TRAVEL brought members and suppliers together for a special
Travel community together. The event was proudly headlined
the event in the UK also kept costs to a minimum, allowing members to
UK seminar in Liverpool, offering a
by sponsors
bring more staff and give a greater
fresh and exciting take on the
DoSomethingDifferent.com,
number of their teams the
organisation’s usual conference
Liverpool Airport, Azamara and JTA,
opportunity to attend.
format.
with each taking a leading role in the
The decision to host this year’s event in the UK came directly from
day’s programme. The event opened with a lively
The day concluded in style with a stunning gala dinner, followed by fantastic entertainment from The
member feedback, with members
supplier marketplace, giving
Beatles Experience, the UK's number
keen to experience something
members the opportunity to meet
one Beatles tribute band, providing
different from the traditional
with a wide range of suppliers,
the perfect finale to a memorable
overseas conference.
discover new products and
day.
The Liverpool seminar delivered exactly that, with a more relaxed and
strengthen existing relationships. The day continued with
Wendy Albutt, Marketing and Events Manager of the Elite Travel
engaging format that was enjoyed
presentations from each of the four
Group, said, “We wanted to create
by both members and suppliers.
headline sponsors, providing
something fresh, fun and different
valuable insights, updates and
this year, while still delivering
by an exciting milestone on the
inspiration for members. The varied
everything our members value from
horizon, as Elite Travel celebrates 50
format allowed plenty of time for
an Elite Travel event. The response
years in the travel industry in 2027.
networking while keeping the day
has been fantastic, and seeing
Plans are already underway for an
informative, interactive and
members and suppliers enjoying
overseas celebration conference to
enjoyable.
themselves, making new
The decision was also influenced
mark this incredible achievement.
Feedback has been extremely
connections and creating memories
With such a significant event
positive, with members describing
together made all the hard work
planned for next year, the Liverpool
the event as refreshing and fun, and
worthwhile.
seminar provided the perfect
welcoming the opportunity to
opportunity to do things differently
experience the usual conference in a
to build excitement ahead of our
in 2026, while still bringing the Elite
completely different way. Holding
very special 50th year.”
“It has also been a wonderful way
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Excellent Based on more than 22,000 reviews
Escorted Touring FLY FURTHER AND EXPLORE MORE Three new tours have been unveiled as a part of Riviera Travel’s 2028 Worldwide collection.
RIVIERA TRAVEL has announced three
culminating at the edge of the world in
local culture, and island experiences,
new long-haul tours as a part of its 2028
Ushuaia.
across Java, Bali, and Komodo. Prices
Worldwide collection.
With prices leading in at £6,599 per
start at £3,999 per person.
Patagonia, Indonesia, and French
person, it is perfect for experienced
Canada have all joined the collection.
travellers and repeat bookers looking
those attracted to Canada, who still
For first-time long-haul customers and
The 15-night ‘Patagonia: Argentina,
beyond Europe for something different,
want that mix of culture and scenery,
Chile, and the End of the World’
bringing culture, adventure, and remote
‘French Canada and Niagara Falls’ is
combines vibrant cities, traditional
landscapes into one journey.
ideal, with prices starting from £3,949
ranch life, and remote landscapes, all
‘Best of Indonesia: Temples,
per person.
Volcanoes, and Islands’ is for customers
The nine-night trip showcases
Discover the UK Islands with Premier Holidays
looking for more than a beach holiday,
Quebec City, Montreal, the Thousand
and those who want plenty of variety
Islands, and Niagara Falls, alongside
IN 2027, visitors can take part in new
from one trip, without having to choose
familiar French influences with some of
part-escorted Scottish island tours, as
between islands.
Canada’s most recognisable sights.
well as self-drive options that showcase Syke, Mull, and Arran.
It is a two-week-long itinerary, covering temples, volcanic landscapes,
All three tours are on sale now for guests to book onto.
This comes following the launch of its 2027 brochure, covering the Channel Islands, Isle of Man, and UK Islands.
Image Credits: Canva Pro
The brochure also features a new
See more on tours with a local expert
walking tour, golf holidays, and an
WITH EXOTICCA, agents can offer small-group and private
Explorer Tour in the Isle of Man.
escorted tours all across the globe, with the reassurance of
Guests can take part in guided walks
expert support and carefully-designed itineraries.
with Jersey Walk Adventures, as well as
The company offers late holiday deals for destinations all over
covering the Channel Islands with tour
the world, so guests can whisk themselves away on a
specialists. Early bookings can be
spontaneous trip, where flights, accommodation, and activities
secured with just a deposit of just £60 per person.
are all included.
ESCORTED TOURING
OCTOBER 16 2026 | travelbulletin.co.uk
Save up to £600 on dream itineraries UK TRAVELLERS can book the holiday of their dreams for less this month as Cosmos is offering up to £600 off per couple across some of its best-selling escorted tours for 2027. The new trade-friendly campaign has been designed to help agents sell through
Newmarket offers 10% off wish-list trips THE OPERATOR is offering up to
the autumn, offering huge savings across select tours in North America, Asia, Africa, South America and the South Pacific. The campaign also features savings of
10% off wish-list experiences
up to £300 per couple for European
when booking before November
options.
th
8 , 2026. Travellers can explore the far
Some of the tours available in the offer include the 12-day ‘Classic Japan: Land of
reaches of Malaysia and
the Rising Sun’ itinerary priced from
Australia for less and learn
£4,889; the 10-day ‘Heart of the Canadian
All flights are included in the itineraries,
more about the lands closer to
Rockies’ trip leading in from £2,849; the
available from regional airports including
home.
eight-day ‘Southern Sounds & Elvis’ tour
London Heathrow, Manchester,
priced from £2,899; and the 10-day
Birmingham, and Edinburgh.
Some of the itineraries highlighted in the offer include
‘Highlights of Morocco’ adventure leading
the nine-day ‘New England in
in from £1,094.
The campaign is live now and will run until November 2nd, 2026.
the Fall’ journey from £2,470 per person; and the 21-day ‘New Zealand Odyssey – North to South Islands’.
Go around the world with Jules Verne BRINGING TOGETHER unforgettable
More than 120 group tours across 80
journeys from all corners of the world, Jules
destinations will be featured in the
Verne has launched its brand-new
collection, with a new range of adventures
2027/2028 Worldwide Collection, featuring
spanning across Europe and Asia, including
new itineraries, solo soirees, and up to £250
options in China, Japan, India, Venice, Malta
in early bird savings.
and Madeira. The collection has been
An elevated European offering
“Demand for authentic, experience-led
WENDY WU Tours’ European
travel continues to grow, and we’ve been
To coincide with the launch, Jules Verne
collection has become even
busy developing an exciting programme of
is offering two early-booking incentives for
grander with the addition of four
new tours for 2027 alongside destinations
2027, allowing travellers to save up to £250
new tours. The new options
and journeys customers already love.”
on each booking and enjoy a reduced
Simon Grove, head of product, said,
designed for curious travellers looking to deepen their cultural experiences.
feature tours to Europe’s lesser-
deposit of £27 during the same booking
known side, including journeys
window. Bookings must be made before
to the Balkans, the Baltics, and
October 31st, 2026.
Scandinavia. The collection
Some of the new tours include the 11-day
features the introduction of the
‘China Highlights’ priced from £1,795 per
new Classic Flex range, and the
person; the 21-day ‘The Five Stans: Grand
operator is offering savings of up
Tour of Central Asia’ from £8,995 per
to £1,415 per person to
person; and the eight-day ‘Croatia & Bosnia
celebrate the launch.
Explorer’ leading in from £2,195 per person.
Image Credits: Top, Top Left and Bottom Left: Canva Pro, Bottom: Jules Verne
16
ESCORTED TOURING
OCTOBER 16 2026 | travelbulletin.co.uk
17
The launch of Unforgettable Asia UNFORGETTABLE TRAVEL Company has
highlights and focus on slower-paced
TRAVELSPHERE AND Just You have
launched ‘Unforgettable Asia’, a new luxury
journeys with high-touch experiences, while
launched a new Marketing Hub for
Asia specialist.
also keeping the luxury agent in mind, with
agents, offering them a one-stop-shop for
The specialist is designed to make it
private chauffeur transfers, luxury hotel
both brands, with a variety of content
easier for agents to sell complex travel
stays, expert guides, complimentary
available.
across the region.
concierge services and 24/7 in-destination
This comes following a surge in demand for Asia at Unforgettable Travel Company,
From honeymooners to multi-
with enquiries increasing 226% between
generational families, the collection has
2022 and 2025. Agent demand has also
been developed for every traveller.
guidelines, itinerary assets and images, flyers, brochures and posters, videos and digital screens, and social media assets. Head of Trade Sales UK Rachel Mould
accelerated quickly, now making up 54% of
said they’ll continue to build on the range
the company’s Asia bookings.
of ready-to-use content as time goes on.
Set to launch with 11 destinations and 50 Image Credits: Left: Unforgettable Travel Company, Right: Just You
assistance included on every booking.
Some of the key features include brand
itineraries, Unforgettable Asia will initially cover Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Singapore, Malaysia, Borneo, and Indonesia, with further destinations to be added later this year and into 2027. These new experiences are designed to take travellers beyond the most familiar
18
ESCORTED TOURING
OCTOBER 16 2026 | travelbulletin.co.uk
Contiki heads back to Uganda CONTIKI HAS brought Uganda back to its portfolio as part of a
HF Holidays launches biggestever collection
new East Africa wildlife adventures collection for 2027. One of the highlights of the collection is the new 19-day ‘Best
HF HOLIDAYS has expanded its
of Uganda, Kenya & Tanzania’ itinerary, which spans across the
2027 holiday collection to meet
three countries, giving travellers the chance to see mountain
growing demand for active,
gorillas, chimpanzees, rhinos, plus more on a range of safari
sociable breaks outdoors. The
experiences. Prices lead in from £6,025 per person.
expansion now features over 200
Spaces are available to book now, with departures scheduled for May 2027.
holidays, including a range of expert-led Overseas Garden Tours visiting botanical
Ramble expands long-haul portfolio for 2027
attractions, and more Guided Walking holidays exploring
Colours of Eastern Canada’ running through September
lesser-known sides of popular
long-haul walking holidays for 2027, including its first-
with prices leading in from £5,299; and the 10-night
destinations.
ever guided itinerary in California.
‘Beautiful Barbados’ itinerary departing in January and
Departing throughout 2027, the new collection spans
Image Credits: Top: Contiki, Bottom: Canva Pro
RAMBLE WORLDWIDE has unveiled eight brand-new
June with prices leading in from £3,749.
North America, South America, the Caribbean, and
Additional long-haul routes include 10 nights in the
Southeast Asia. Notable highlights include the flagship
Dominican Republic priced from £4,199, as well as an
14-night ‘California Dreaming’ tour departing in April
expansive 18-night Andean expedition across Argentina
and October priced from £6,499; the 13-night ‘Autumn
and Chile priced from £8,899.
Why book a tour with
Riviera Travel To find out more, request a brochure or to book Call 01283 901 098 | Visit rivieratravel.co.uk/agents
Expert Tour Managers throughout
Flights, hotels and transfers included
Carefully curated itineraries
Exceptional value for money
Authentic local experiences
Award-winning holidays
Small groups of max 36
Trusted travel experts for over 40 years
Family HolidayS MUSICALS, FEASTS, AND MORE Lots to offer for the whole family aboard Disney Cruise Line’s new sailing, Disney Believe.
DISNEY CRUISE line will invite guests
will introduce brand-new experiences
venues, offerings and entertainment
on a journey inspired by its courageous
that families will not want to miss.
tailored just for them, for a delightful
characters who believe in themselves,
Featured is the world’s first stage
mix of fun and relaxation. This includes
their dreams, and the promise and
adaptation of Encanto, a family dining
a premium dining suite, the secluded
possibility of new horizons aboard its
venue that expands the Frozen universe
‘Quiet Cove’ pool area, the tranquil
new ship, Disney Believe.
with an all-new setting and experience,
oasis of the ‘Senses Spa’, and a haven
a Grand Hall inspired by the vibrant
for pampering with the ‘Untangled
world where the sky meets the sea
Salon’.
The new ship is set to depart from Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, th
Florida, on December 18 , 2027, and
from Moana, and more.
Guests aboard Disney Believe will
Encanto is joined by the hit show
have the choice of four- and five-night
Explore Lapland as a family with Arctic Boutique
‘Tangled: The Musical’, this time with a
sailings from southern Florida to the
reimagined set design and special
Caribbean and The Bahamas.
ARCTIC BOUTIQUE Collection has
effects exclusive to the new ship.
expanded its portfolio across Finnish
The ship features 10 official dining
Along the way, they will make stops at one or both of Disney Cruise Line’s
Lapland, with four new accommodation
venues and food concepts for the
island destinations, Disney Castaway
openings and expansions across the
whole family to enjoy.
Cay and Disney Lookout Cay at
region, including two for families to
Adults will also be able to enjoy
Lighthouse Point.
enjoy. This includes the Halo Igloos Riverside in Vikaköngäs, with their larger size Image Credits: Top: Disney Cruise Line, Bottom: AlUla Moments
giving families the space to spread out
Saudi Arabia’s most inspiring escape
beneath the sky. Rates range from
IN ALULA, families can experience history, culture,
around £425 per night for up to four
nature, and adventure - all in one visit. From the
guests, including half board, snowshoes,
ancient tombs of Hegra, to contemporary art across
and shuttles. The Aava Glass Igloos in
the desert landscape, stargazing beneath some of the
Rovaniemi also accommodate up to four
world’s clearest skies, and its very own Wellness
th
guests, and open on November 13 ,
Festival, families can balance discovery, relaxation,
2026, starting at about £507 per night.
and connection with one holiday.
FAMILY HOLIDAYS
OCTOBER 16 2026 | travelbulletin.co.uk
Children of single parents stay for free RED SEA Holidays has launched a new Single Parent Saver offer, where one child can stay for free when travelling with a single adult. The deal also allows for 50% off hotel stays for a second child, giving travel
Kandooma Maldives puts family first KANDOOMA HAS deflagged from
agents a new value-led option for families heading to Egypt. Designed to make Egypt more
IHG to become ‘Kandooma
accessible to single-parent families, the
Maldives’ under HPL Hotels &
offer applies to all bookings at any Red
Resorts management.
Sea Hotel properties.
The resort is now all-inclusive,
This includes accommodation across
with an experience-led approach
destinations like Sharm El Sheikh,
designed to make family holidays
Hurghada, and Makadi Bay.
easier, richer, and more fun.
Prices lead in at £1,054 for one adult
Renovations include new
and one child under 12 for seven nights
activities, as well as eight new family beach pool villas which
at Siva Golden Bay, in Makadi. Other lead-in prices feature £1,294 for a
Grand Hotel, Sharm El Sheikh. One adult and two children under 12
combine direct beach access
week at the Grand Waterworld Makadi
can also enjoy seven nights from £1,737
with private splash pools and
Hotel, and £1,077 for a week at The
at Siva Golden, Makadi Bay.
dedicated children’s sleeping spaces, to keep family at the heart of Kandooma.
Spooky family mini-breaks this Halloween MANCHESTER AIRPORT has last-minute deals from £34 per person return available this Halloween. As the spookiest date on the calendar falls on the last Saturday of the school half term, the airport’s unrivalled network of
some of its best available last-minute deals. For £125 per person, guests can get return flights to Bucharest to check out the week-long Halloween Festival at Bran Castle, best known for inspiring Dracula. Leading in at just £34 per person, families
Celebrating Autumn in Orlando
more than 200 destinations, served by over
can take in the dark history that lies beneath
50 airlines, is giving customers the chance
the vibrant and modern metropolis of
With Autumn well and truly
to see how Halloween is marked across
Dublin. The award-winning Ghost Bus Kids
underway, Orlando has more to
Europe and beyond.
Tour brings that history to life.
offer than theme parks, from pumpkin patches and 94 days of
For families looking for a thriller of a halfterm getaway, the airport has rounded up
More deals include routes to Prague from £120 per person, where visitors can explore
Halloween, to major music
the Czech capital’s underground network of
events, food festivals, cultural
tunnels and passages, and stunning gothic
celebrations, and pro sports.
architecture, flights to Venice from £111 per
Families can enjoy the
person to see the home of the masquerade
Southern Hill Farms Festival until nd
party, and just £196 per person to Frankfurt
November 22 , Fall Fiesta in the
to see the castle for Mary Shelley’s much-
Park on November 7th-8th, and
loved gothic horror novel, Frankenstein.
FusionFest for family-friendly
Other destination deals include
crafting in late November.
Barcelona, Copenhagen, and Derry.
Image Credits: Top Left: Kandooma Maldives, Top Right: Red Sea Holidays, Bottom Left: Visit Orlando, Bottom Right: Manchester Airport
20
Croatia Fam Trip THE CROATIAN National Tourist Board and the Split-Dalmatia County Tourist Board organised a study trip in September for travel agents from the UK’s largest network, Travel Counsellors, as well as representatives from Silver Travel and Travel Bulletin. The trip was dedicated to cultural and historical heritage, gastronomy, and natural beauty. During the multi-day tour, guests visited Split, Trogir, Klis, Sinj, Vrgorac, Red and Blue Lakes, and the town of Hvar. The trip showcased the diversity of the country’s offerings, as the destination is quickly becoming a favourite for British tourists. For more information about the destinations visited, head to https://croatia.hr/en-gb and https://www.dalmatia.hr/
FAMILY HOLIDAYS
OCTOBER 16 2026 | travelbulletin.co.uk
Family fun gets a luxury upgrade
Do you believe in ghosts?
SANI AND Ikos are enhancing their
enhanced value across Sani, with
luxury resorts for 2027, with a strong
children and additional guests staying
focus on multi-generational groups
free or at reduced rates in select
Jeanette Ratcliffe
and greater-value stays.
accommodation.
Publisher jeanette.ratcliffe@travelbulletin.co.uk Ghosts no, after life definitely yes.
At Sani Beach, newly redesigned
At Ikos, the redesigned Ikos
Family Suites, including selected
Oceania will include refreshed family
beachfront options, will offer
accommodation, while Ikos Dassia
contemporary interiors, private
will introduce a redesigned Three-
outdoor spaces and easy access to
Bedroom Beachfront Villa with Private
family-friendly experiences, including
Pool, ideal for larger families seeking
the Rafa Nadal Tennis Center, Chelsea
privacy.
FC Football Academy and shallow waters of Bousoulas Beach. Porto Sani is also expanding by around
Simon Eddolls Sales Director simon.eddolls@travelbulletin.co.uk Absolutely not.
Sarah Terry Account Manager sarah.terry@travelbulletin.co.uk Yes ghosts, witches, spirits and angels!
80%, adding 119 new suites, a lagoon-style family pool and new
Tim Podger
poolside dining. Interconnected suites
Account Manager - Far East tim.podger@travelbulletin.co.uk No, but I believe in spirits!
sleeping up to six, alongside a kids’ club and crèche, make it a go-to choice for families. Families will also benefit from
Leah Kelly Editor leah.kelly@travelbulletin.co.uk Definitely, i’ve witnessed too many ‘coincidences’ for my liking...
Melissa Paddock Events Coordinator melissa.paddock@travelbulletin.co.uk I’m open to being convinced.
Holly Hopkins Events Coordinator holly.brown@travelbulletin.co.uk No.
Oliver Terrell Events Coordinator oliver.terrell@travelbulletin.co.uk Yes but only at spooky times of the year.
Kids go free in San Diego
Molly Farrell
FAMILIES CAN save up to $1,000 this October with the return of ‘Kids Free San
Digital Editor molly.farrell@travelbulletin.co.uk I do believe in something...
Diego’, including more than 100 offers at attractions, museums, hotels and restaurants across the region. Daniel Kuperschmid, President and CEO of the San Diego Tourism Authority, said, “Kids Free San Diego has helped families
EVENTS events@travelbulletin.co.uk
experience more of our destination while making budgets go further. The programme makes it easier for families to enjoy a San Diego getaway in the fall and discover the experiences that have made the region a premier family destination.”
PRODUCTION production@travelbulletin.co.uk CIRCULATION circulation@travelbulletin.co.uk
Image Credits: Top: Ikos, Bottom: Birch Aquarium, San Diego Tourism Authority
22
in association with
A New Chapter for Rixos Premium Dubai
Rixos Premium Dubai unveils the Luxury Suite Collection, introducing a refined suite experience designed around space, privacy and elevated comfort.
Venue: The Guild Chester
The Collection brings together spacious suites and penthouses, complemented by panoramic views, personalised service and access to the complete Rixos lifestyle.
Watergate Street, Chester, CH1 2LA Monday 9th November 2026
Created for your clients who are seeking greater space, comfort and exclusivity, the Luxury Suite Collection represents a new expression of elevated accommodation at Rixos Premium Dubai.
Join us to learn more in the luxurious surroundings of The Guild Chester.
TIMINGS Registration
Cocktails & informal networking
Rixos Premium Dubai presentation
6.15pm – 7.15pm
7.15pm
Three-course dinner
Prizes
Event ends
7.45pm
9.00pm
9.30pm
6.00pm