TB 20th Feb 2026

Giving agents the edge

Giving agents the edge

Indian Ocean

Picture-perfect escapes that continue to draw travellers back.

We are back and bringing our Showcase Events to a town near you! (Pg. 10)

The latest updates from across the industry.

ROADSHOW ROUND-UP

We have been back out on the road training agents up and down the country.

ESCORTED TOURING

Help your clients get the most out of a destination.

MIDDLE EAST

This debut feature shines the spotlight on a region eager to grow its tourism footprint.

DEFINING MOMENTS

easyJet Holidays has launched its Travel Trends report for 2026, highlighting how Brits are broadening their horizons when it comes to travel.

BRITS ARE broadening their horizons by ‘trying before they fly’ and setting their sights on the stars according to new research by easyJet Holidays.

The latest travel trend report revealed that British holidaymakers are planning trips around defining moments including the solar eclipse, historic pilgrimages and opportunities to follow in the footsteps of a favourite film/TV show.

2026 has been dubbed ‘the year of astrology’ for travellers as dark sky tourism is emerging as one of the most distinctive trends of the year, and with the total solar eclipse occurring on August 12th, 2026, there has never been a better time for travellers to look to the skies.

Longer short-haul journeys are becoming the new norm with travellers more likely to seek out destinations five or six hours away. Tunisia in particular has become a firm

favourite with easyJet Holidays passengers with the airline noting a 12% increase in 2026 flights. The Georgian capital of Tblisi is also gaining traction as a favourable city break after the airline added direct flights from the UK to its roster. Morocco, Türkiye and Cyprus have also seen a 21% increase in interest as travellers look more towards making each moment count within a destination.

As TikTok and AI continue to influence daily lives, travellers are using the technologies to ‘try before they fly’ – a phenomenon where holidaymakers are planning trips via vlogs and VR experiences to sample the destination before booking. 22% of Brits are also using translation technology abroad as social media is removing the language barrier ‘fear’ many face, with over half (52%) planning to visit a new destination this year.

Showcase Calendar

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Disney Cruise Line promises sizzling summer

THE DISNEY Wish is coming to the UK for the first time in summer 2027 with European extravaganzas. The ship’s European debut will offer three-to-10 night itineraries sailing out of the UK, Spain, and Italy.

These itineraries blend cultural exploration, captivating coastlines, and the signature Disney Cruise Line experience.

The Disney Dream will return to Port Canaveral for summer 2027, offering multinight itineraries to The Bahamas and selected Caribbean ports. Select voyages will include visits to both Disney Castaway Cay and Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point.

Marvel Day at Sea, alongside Pixar Day at Sea, will return to select sailings in 2027.

A royal expansion in Barbados

ROYALTON VESSENCE

Barbados will introduce a curated selection of premium accommodations as part of the Royalton Suites & Villas category.

The Opening of Royalton’s Suites & Villas is planned for June 1 st , 2026. The debut

marks a first for Royalton Vessence Barbados.

A seven-night stay at the five-star Royalton Vessence Barbados leads in from £2,757 per person. This price is based on two adults sharing a Junior Suite on an all-inclusive basis.

Involved Holidays extends new ‘Beautiful Balkans’

INVOLVED HOLIDAYS has released new date options for its ‘Beautiful Balkans’ itinerary due to unprecedented success following its recent brochure launch.

The itinerary offers five guided walks across a sevennight stay. Agents can now book the sold-out Albanian itinerary for departures on June 12th 2026 with prices starting from £1,499 per person.

Involved Holidays’ Sales Direct, Richard Forde, commented, “The demand we’ve seen for Beautiful Balkans has been exceptional, and we’re delighted to be able to offer agents another chance to sell this largely undiscovered destination to their clients. The sell out popularity of this itinerary is a demonstration, in part, of the success of our new 2026 brochure.”

HX stars in new expedition documentary

THE WORLD’S oldest expedition company is coming to the silver screen later this month where it will play a starring role in a new ITV documentary hosted by Julia Bradbury.

Airing on February 15th, February 22nd and March 1st, 2026, the three-part documentary — Julia Bradbury’s Wonders of the Frozen South — follows the host as she embarks on a 23-day expedition through the Southern Ocean towards Antarctica aboard MS Fram.

Double entry applies to bookings made during the series airtime (from February 15th to March 1st).

HX Expeditions is offering agents the chance to double their entries into the draw to win a place on an exclusive MegaFAM. Agents who make a booking during this period will receive double entry to win a twonight expedition experience sailing from Hamburg to Heligoland.

Hebridean Cruises offers new promotion

Save £500 per couple on long-haul adventures

COSMOS TOURS is offering up to £500 off per couple on select long-haul itineraries, as well as up to £200 off on standout European tours.

VISIT ORLANDO has introduced a new AI powered itinerary builder designed for travel advisors.

The tool sits within the Orlando Travel Academy and is available exclusively to graduates, giving advisors a faster way to turn destination knowledge into multi-day travel plans for clients.

The Orlando Itinerary Builder bridges the gap between training and trip planning.

VALID FOR new bookings only, the offer allows guests to save up to 20% on select voyages as well as enjoy free rail or air travel to and from the vessels. Available on select March and April 2026 sailings, the offer covers a range of itineraries across the Highlands, the Inner Isles, the Hebrides, Argyll, the Clyde Estuary, the North West Seaboard and the Caledonian Canal.

Some of the cruises featured in the promotion include the six-night ‘Easter in the Highlands’ cruise sailing from Inverness to Oban which leads in from £3,088 per person and the five-night ‘Footloose on the Clyde’ roundtrip cruise from Greenock from £2,464 per person.

HAL announces new Voyages for 2027/2028

WITH ITINERARIES ranging from 26 to 47 days, Holland America Line’s new selection of Legendary Voyages will prove unforgettable with guests.

The Legendary collection will include the new 28-day ‘Legendary Solar Eclipse & Cosmic Port Explorer’ sailing where guests will visit 13 ports across the UK,

Denmark, France, Spain, Portugal, Gibraltar and Morocco from £4,239 per person.

Some of the itineraries included in the sale are the 19day ‘Ultimate South America’ leading in from £4,301 per person; the 11-day ‘Music & Legends with Elvis & Dolly’ from £1,829 per person; and the 10day ‘Canadian Maritimes Adventure’ priced from £1,779 per person. Prices do not include international flights.

Be jolly this Holi with £50 savings

THE GOA Experience is offering agents the chance to offer their clients an extra £50 per person saving on selected hotel packages to Goa, creating a timely sales opportunity around Holi 2026.

The saving applies to departures from London Gatwick or Manchester for travel up to March 3rd, 2026, when booked with promo code HOLI50. The Holi Festival takes place between March 6th and 8th, 2026.

Emerald’s new ship signifies a “bold new chapter”

AHEAD OF her debut in May, Emerald Cruises has revealed a first look at new ship Emerald Astura.

Taking inspiration from Emerald’s luxury yacht fleet, the ship houses bespoke art installations and luxurious touches while boasting a reimagined Sun Deck and refreshed outdoor spaces.

The 180-guest ship will set off on her maiden voyage down the Danube on May 3rd, 2026. departing from Budapest on a nine-day ‘Enchantment of Eastern Europe’ voyage.

Following this sailing, the vessel will service a variety of European waterways of a series of itineraries including ‘Rhine Castles & Moselle Vineyards’, ‘Jewels of the Rhine’, ‘Splendours of Europe’ and ‘The Majestic Rhine’.

Dominic Keely, head of marketing - Rivers & Land, said the new ship represents “a bold new chapter for river cruising, blending the intimacy of Europe’s great waterways with the design of a luxury yacht. With innovative new guest amenities and a striking contemporary style, the ship is designed to elevate the river cruise experience from the moment guests step on board.”

CUNARD IS doubling opportunities for agents to deepen their knowledge about the luxury line’s iconic fleet and experience true Cunard hospitality for themselves. More than 900 agents will be invited aboard, with the first four ship visits set to take place between May and July in Southampton and Liverpool aboard Queen Mary 2 and Queen Anne

Club Med sees 13% Winter growth

CLUB MED is celebrating record-breaking results from its Winter 2027 sales opening, reporting a 13% increase from last year.

Nicolas Bresch, managing director. said, “A huge thank you to all our trade partners, whose continued efforts have been key to making this record-breaking sales opening a success."

Peak demand was driven by New Year’s Week 2026, with December departures up

Wizz Air grows Greek network

12.4%, followed by February Half Term and Easter 2027.

Sales from repeat customers were also up 23% compared to last year, demonstrating the strength of Club Med’s established base.

The Summer 2027 sales opening, including the highly anticipated Club Med South Africa Beach and Resort, is scheduled from March 24th to 27th, 2026, with pre-registration starting from March 2nd

WIZZ AIR has announced a new route from London Gatwick to Santorin will take to the skies from July 1st, 2026, operating twice per week every Wednesday and Sunday. The Santorini announcement builds upon the other recently announced connections to Chania, Corfu, Mykonos, Rhodes and Zakynthos which will also launch this summer.

Yvonne Moynihan, Managing Director at Wizz Air UK, said, “The addition of Santorini to our London Gatwick network comes at the perfect time ahead of the peak summer season […] As London’s low-cost airline, we’re delighted to give travellers the opportunity to experience this iconic island destination at an affordable price.”

Playa offers 15% off getaways

AGENTS CAN save their clients up to 15% off Caribbean and Mexican getaways this year and beyond thanks to Playa Hotels & Resorts new promotion running until March 31st, 2026. A seven-night stay at Hyatt Playa Del Carmen now leads in from £1,699 per person.

AGENT INCENTIVES

● CRYSTAL CRUISES is running a new incentive until March 31st wherein agents will win a £20 retail voucher per booking made for any sailing. The top six bookers by the end of the campaign will be win an overnight stay in London with dinner and train travel included.

● UNTIL MARCH 30th, 2026, agents can earn double points every time they book an OUTRIGGER property and redeem them for complimentary stays at resorts in Mauritius, Koh Samui, Surin Beach, Khao Lak, Fiji and Hawaii. One free stay is unlocked with 2,000 points.

● ON THE back of a recordbreaking January Audley Travel is giving back to both its agent partners and the planet with a new incentive programme. Agents who make a booking in February and March will receive a £50 Love2Shop voucher, plus £50 will be donated to the operator’s ‘Travel for Good’ Fund.

● AGENTS CAN earn up to £40 in cash rewards for every Royalton Saint Lucia booking they make during February as Peaks 2026 continues to hold momentum. £20 per booking is available on the first 10 bookings, with £40 up for grabs for booking number 11 onwards.

● THERE is still time to win one of 10 spots on Celestyal Cruises Greek Islands fam trip. The top sellers during January and February will be invited on the cruise this summer after a VIP dinner in London in March. The prize fam trip will invite agents aboard Celestyal Discovery as its departs roundtrip from Athens and calls at Mykonos, Kusadasi, Patmos, Rhodes, Heriklion and Santorini.

Agent bulletin

VIRGIN VOYAGES has started the year with a major trade push, reaching more than 1,000 First Mates in January through a nationwide programme of store visits, head office takeovers and in-person training sessions. The UK sales team connected directly with 1,063 agents, visited 101 stores and delivered activity across 58 locations.

Competition

AGENT TRAINING

● AGENTS CAN experience the 2026 FIFA World Cup for themselves as Destination Vancouver is offering its specialists the chance to win a three-night stay in the host city as well as tickets to game. The prize includes two fam spots with each successful agent able to bring a plus one along for the experience. Agents must complete the Vancouver Specialist Program by February 28th, 2026, to be in with a chance of winning.

● THE BRASIL Travel Specialist has launched a new programme to connect further with the international travel trade. The Brasil Specialist Rewards allows professionals certified by Brasil Travel Specialist to be eligible for monthly and quarterly prize draws for cash awards. At the end of the campaign, the top sellers will be invited to take part in a one-of-a-kind experience in the country.

● COMPLETING THE USA Discovery Program could land you on the board’s mega fam trip, known as the Destination Immersion Program. You must complete the destination Immersion Airlines Badge on the platform and log any bookings with Aer Lingus, American Airlines and British Airways before the end of February to be in with a chance of joining the Brand USA team.

● CELESTYAL CAMPUS, the cruise line’s former trade platform, has made way for Celestyal Stars, a 16module e-learning platform which encompasses exclusive trade rates, discounts and additional learning opportunities. Modules on the platform cover the length and breadth of selling Celestyal, including insights on the cruise line’s fleet and destinations.

United expands Glasgow-New York Route for 2026

UNITED AIRLINES has confirmed an expansion of its new seasonal nonstop service between Glasgow and New York Newark, increasing total seat capacity by more than 22% for Summer 2026.

The route will take to the skies from May 9th, 2026 and operate through to October 24th, 2026, a month longer than originally scheduled.

movers shakers&

VISIT JERSEY has appointed Ashley Proudfoot as Head of Marketing and Communications effective from March 2nd, 2026. Ashley will lead Visit Jersey’s marketing strategy, delivering campaigns, content and partnerships to raise Jersey’s international profile.

MICHAEL EDWARDS has joined the Crystal Cruises team in the newly-created role of Key Account Manager UK & EIRE. In his new role, Michael will drive trade sales performance and expand Crystal’s market presence across the UK.

THERE IS still time to enjoy significant savings with Malaysia Airlines ‘Time for Journeys Together’ campaign, with return fares available from £569 for Economy class. The sale will end on February 23rd, 2026.

ABTA's New Travel Guidance

LAUNCHED AS part of ABTA’s work on accessibility and assisted travel, the new information has been designed with a customers-first approach, prioritising their needs right from start to finish.

The guidance will empower travel agents and operators in delivering customised support for travellers throughout the planning process, helping them find the holiday that best suits their preferences. It will also cater to specific needs arising out of factors such as reduced mobility, access requirements, nonvisible disabilities or neurodiversity.

Cosy Up at Hilton Lake Como

Susan Deer, director of industry relations, said, “We want everyone to be able to travel with confidence, and recognise that if you have a disability, planning and organising travel can be more complicated. As an industry we have an opportunity to support travellers and improve access to travel.”

THE LUXURY hotel invites lovebirds to experience the most lavish Valentines retreat this season.

Priced from £12,132, the Valentines signature experience ensures a private transfer from the airport for an elegant arrival to a one-night stay in the Superior Rooftop Suite with access to the eforea Spa & Health club where couples will be treated to an 80-minute ‘Celebration of Love’ massage, lunch at the Terrazza 241 rooftop bar and restaurant, a 30-minute helicopter ride over Como, Bellagio, Varenna, Menaggio and Argegno, a four course private dinner and a cocktail breakfast.

FRED. OLSEN Cruise Lines has welcomed guests back on board Bolette following a successful 16 day dry dock.

Bolette’s 14-night cruise departs from Liverpool on April 14th 2026. Prices start from £1,175 per person.

SUDOKU

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

Fill in all the squares in the grid so that each row, column and each of the 3 x 3 squares contains the digits 1-9. Once you have completed the puzzle, simply identify the numbers that relate to the letters, A, B, C and D then e-mail the solution, with your name, company name, and full postal address plus phone and ABTA number if applicable to:

competition@travelbulletin.co.uk

Closing date for entries is Thursday, March 5th. Solution and new puzzle will appear next week.

February 6th Solution: A=9 B=6 C=7 D=1

For all competitions visit http://www.travelbulletin.co.uk/component/r sform/form/1593-Travel-Trivia-Quiz

Marriott hotel brand where you check in at the bar and receive a drink with your key (4)

Mariah who sang at the opening ceremony of the Winter Olympics in Milan (5) 6 US state that is home to a former London Bridge (7)

Stockholm Arlanda airport code (3)

Capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina (8)

Etihad's H.O. and main hub are located in this city (3,5)

Flag carrier of Pakistan (3)

West African country (7)

Travel company offering a chauffeurdriven transfer service (5)

Nightlife and shopping area in London's West End (4)

11 BUDGET, 13 HURON, 14 BOAT, 15 PESO.

1 Documentary film about America's first lady (7) 2 Home to the famous Terracotta Army (4) 3 Mandarin is the main language of this country (5)

Largest of the Dodecanese islands (6) 5 Company specialising in holidays for the over fifties (4)

African country, initially (3)

Sometimes called the Theme Capital of the World (7)

Rent A Car company, part of Avis (6)

One of the five Great Lakes (5)

Water vehicle (4)

Currency of Mexico (4)

Africa Showcase

WE KICKED off the New Year in style as we brought all things Africa to Ascot!

Agents were treated to a full evening of networking, grand prizes and our staple game of Bingo. A big thank you to our suppliers who made the evening one to remember — RwandAir, Explore!, Titan Travel, Newmarket Holidays, Riviera Travel and Travelsphere.

Want to get in on the #TBShowcases action? Our next event will be the Spain In A Day event taking place in Weybridge on February 25th. To confirm your place or find out when we will be hosting our next event near you contact events@travelbulletin.co.uk

Train & Gain Hampton Court

OUR FIRST Train & Gain instalment of the year came to Hampton Court last month where agents were treated to an afternoon of presentations and prizes in a lush location.

We thank our supplier partners — Affinity Angels, Expedia TAAP, Jamaica Tourist Board, Greater Miami, Nova Scotia, Sandals, Santa’s Lapland, Simpson’s Travel and SPL Villas — as well as our fantastic agents for attending!

Do you have showcase FOMO? Our next Train & Gain event will take place on April 13th in Marlow. To confirm your place or find out when we will be hosting our next event near you contact events@travelbulletin.co.uk

Escorted Touring

OFF-PEAK IS ON THE RISE

Wild Frontiers has launched a new series of Off-Peak adventures designed to help travellers get the most out of a destination away from the crowds.

TO MEET the demand for authentic travel experiences and low-season travel, adventure operator Wild Frontiers has launched its new Off-Peak Collection, designed to help travellers experience destinations away from the crowds in a more immersive fashion.

CEO Clare Tobin said the collection

Ramble Worldwide introduces new European tours

THE WALKING specialist has added seven new guided holidays to its European portfolio, now offering customers over 300 guided small group and self-guided options across 40 countries.

The new itineraries include the threenight ‘Hiking in the Sierra Nevada Adventure (Grade 6)’ tour from £476 and the three-night ‘Picos de Europa Hikes Weekend Adventure (Grade 6)’ leading in from £413.

Ramble Worldwide has also introduced a wider range of Cruise & Walk holidays in partnership with Fred. Olsen.

has been created to “encourage travel outside of busy periods, spread visitor numbers more evenly throughout the year and significantly reduce pressure on local communities.

“Travelling off-peak allows for a more responsible way to explore the world. In quieter, less tourist-heavy periods, countries and their inhabitants relax and you can see them in a more natural state.”

The collection includes the 14-day ‘Costa Rica & Panama: Canal, Coffee & Volcanoes (Green Season)’ group tour, taking guests to the lush waterfalls and dramatic landscapes of the region while

offering experiences such as visits to the Poas volcanoes and the Panama Canal. Prices lead in from £5,275 per person for a May 28th, 2026, departure. Another example is the 10-day ‘Tanzania: Safari, Serengeti & Maasai Heartlands’ itinerary which offers a more responsible way to experience the wonders of East Africa while reducing the stress during peak migration season. Guests will still have the chance to experience the wildlife across the Serengeti, Tarangire and Ngorongoro but with fewer vehicles. Prices lead in from £3,985 for departures in April 2026.

Jules Verne unveils ‘enchanting’ new destination

TWO NEW tours have been added to Jules Verne’s latest destination: Algeria. Managing Director Debbie O’Neill said the destination is “a relatively undiscovered destination, [with] rich culture, fascinating history and breathtaking landscapes.”

The new eight-night ‘Highlights of Algeria’ leads in from £1,895, while the 12-night ‘Grand Tour of Algeria: Ancient Cities to the Sahara Desert’ leads in from £2,895.

AAT Kings offers discounted tour rates

AGENTS CAN save their clients up to £500 per person across selected Small Group and Classic Group tours departing between April 1st, 2026 and March 31st, 2027.

Guests can save up to £500 on tours lasting 16 days or longer, including the ‘Untamed New Zealand’ itinerary. Travellers will depart from Auckland and spend 17 days exploring the best of the North and South islands, including an overnight Milford Sound cruise, immersive Maori cultural experiences and a guided Art Deco walking tour in Napier. Prices lead in from £6,845 per person.

Ben Hall, AAT Kings Group CEO, said there is “great potential for our trade partners to be pushing [intimate-style] tours.

“Our new Small Group tours are proving to be popular with UK guests and now account for around 30% of all sales [...]

clients are looking to really explore and have an adventure — especially in regions popular with UK visitors, including Western Australia, New Zealand, Tasmania and South Australia. “

To celebrate the launch, AAT Kings is running an agent incentive through its AListers loyalty programme, where gift cards ranging from £25 to £75 can be earned for every Guided Holiday booking made.

A celebratory start for Riviera

RIVIERA TRAVEL will be popping the champagne as it celebrates its best January on record with a 36% uptick in passenger numbers, and a strong acceleration in the escorted touring market.

Director of trade & partnerships Vicky Billing credits the success to agents, the

Riviera team and the operator’s trade friendly approach to business.

“The support we receive from the trade is nothing short of phenomenal, they are absolutely central to our success. We simply wouldn’t be where we are today without you, and we won’t forget that.”

Magari expands Italian tours

MAGARI TOURS has expanded its portfolio with the launch of a new Sicily itinerary and the return of its Sardinia programme, responding to growing demand for immersive travel in Italy’s lesser-known regions.

The new eight-day ‘Western Sicily - Mystical & Moorish’ itinerary leads in from £3,499 per person for an October 16th, 2026 departure; while the reintroduced ‘Sardinia: Real & Rustic’ tour leads in from £3,499 per person for a departure on October 2nd, 2027.

ACACIA AFRICA is becoming a family affair as the adventure operator has lowered its minimum age requirement on its Adventure Camping and Adventure Accommodated Tours.

Families with 16- and 17year-olds are now welcome to explore the magic of southern and East Africa with access to all 81 of the operator’s itineraries.

HF Holidays offers a new way to explore Europe

COMBINING SMALL-ship

cruising with exclusive smallgroup guided tours, HF Holidays is offering guests a fresh way to explore Europe with its new tour collection.

One of the itineraries is the seven-night ‘Cruise & Walk the Dalmatian Coast’ prices from £2,699 per person.

Homeworkers head for the African plains

HOMEWORKERS HAVE the chance to win a place on Newmarket Holidays’ luxury South Africa safari fam trip this April.

Running until February 28th, 2026, homeworking agents will be entered into a prize draw for every booking they make during the promotional period. The winners will enjoy a fully-hosted ‘On Safari in South Africa - Rhino East Lodge’ itinerary departing London Heathrow on April 19th, 2026.

The prize includes return Virgin Atlantic flights, accommodation at a five-star safari lodge, guided game drives and a range of other excursions.

Hayley Morris, head of trade sales and partnerships, said, “This incentive is designed to reward our hardworking agent partners while giving them the opportunity to experience the magic of South Africa first-

hand. By offering automatic entries with every booking, we’re making it easy for agents to take part and be rewarded for doing what they do best.”

More time to save big with Wendy Wu

THERE IS still time to take advantage of Wendy Wu Tours’ ‘Biggest Ever Sale’ where travellers can enjoy either free return flights, 50% off solo airfare or free single supplements worth up to £1,680 per person.

Now running until February 28th, 2026, the sale is available across a wide range of the operator’s portfolio, including the 20-day ‘China Uncovered’ tour now leading in from £5,040 per person; the 21-day ‘Japan by Rail’ itinerary leading in from £9,990 per person; the 16-day ‘Southern India & Sri Lanka’ tour from £4,740 per person; and the 19-day ‘Galapagos Cruise & Machu Picchu’ itinerary from £13,190 per person.

Free return flights, partner flies free or 50% off solo airfare offers are available across all destinations and tours for select 2026 and

2027 departures, while the free or half-price single supplements offer is available on selected 2026/2027 dates for fully-inclusive touring options.

Alongside the sale, Wendy Wu is also continuing its ‘no booking goes unrewarded’ incentive for agents for the rest of February. Each tour booked equals special prizes for agents.

All aboard a legendary locomotive

THERE ARE more opportunities for railway-enthusiasts to experience the legendary Flying Scotsman locomotive in 2026 as Just Go! Holidays has added a new two-day trip.

Prices lead in from £219 per person for a departure on wither March 13th, 15th or 20th, 2026.

Involved Holidays makes brand first

WALKING TOUR specialist

Involved Holidays has unveiled its first-ever A4 brochure, starring nine new itineraries bookable throughout 2026 and 2027. Two existing tours have been extended to include a rail element: one in Porto, 'Porto Trails & Rails', and one in Valencia, 'Valencia Trails & Rails'. Both promise the same walking experiences and, rather than centring the rail at the core of the holiday, simply use rail travel as a connection between stops on the itinerary.

Grand UK Holidays reports 80% booking surge

DOMESTIC SPECIALIST Grand

UK Holidays has reported a sales spike of over 80% for its 'Gold' category coach bookings, with 2026 overall tracking far ahead of 2025 year-on-year. There have been strong forward bookings for its European cruise and tour range. A new 'Gold' coach will join the fleet in 2026 to support growing demand, with enhanced seating and extra legroom compared to existing coaches.

New Regent Holidays range responds to small group demand

19 ITINERARIES comprise Regent Holidays' inaugural 'Holidays with Friends' range, which hopes to cater to growing demand for small-group travel. The operator pointed to recent ABTA data, which found that almost two in three (63%) of Brits put precious time with family and friends as one of the key drivers behind their decision to travel.

'Holidays with Friends' have been crafted for groups of at least four, catering to a range of budgets and various travel tastes.

'Romania: Bucharest, Baths & Bears' comes in at £985 per person based on a group of four. The three-night option blends relaxation, wildlife and eastern European history with its combination of four-star accommodation at the city-centre Hotel Europa Royale, a day out at Therme Bucharest, and a private guided tour of Transylvania.

The 11-day 'Philippines Palawan Island Adventure' promises to stray from the usual Philippines tourist trail, uncovering vibrant reefs and shipwrecks on snorkelling excursions, an island-hopping trip through El Nido's lagoon, and plenty of beach and hammock time from £2,810 per person.

Life on the road this peaks with Travelsphere & Just You

KEY ACCOUNT manager Bev Philpotts took a break from the road to chat with us about her "fantastic" first peaks with Travelsphere & Just You, turn-of-year sales momentum, and how the brands keep finding ways to surprise agent partners.

Naturally, the last month or so on the road has been "very, very busy", but Bev has enjoyed going beyond the standard shop visit and swag drop. "I love meetings—but the range of in-store activity, various bits and pieces going on[...] have given us a

whole host of different options this peaks."

Bev isn't the only one relatively new to the Travelsphere and Just You world; she has "met plenty of agents who, even by their own admission, might not have thought of us as a first choice in touring. That has what has been so rewarding this peaks especially.”

Bev reported "quite mixed" feedback on the high street when it comes to turn-ofyear sales; whether or not sales performance has matched expectations, the operator is taking insights from their discussions with agents. "What we are hearing is that agents who have never made bookings with us before are starting to do so, or those who have previously only looked at Travelsphere are beginning to explore Just You and vice versa."

Hear more from Bev at www.travelbulletin.co.uk/news/

Uniworld combines the best of lands and rivers

A NEW collection of luxury ‘Cruise & Tour’ itineraries are coming to Uniworld’s portfolio as the river cruise line has partnered with sister company Luxury Gold to offer guests a unique combination of small-group land tours with all-inclusive cruises on Europe’s waterways.

Set to make their debut in 2027, each ‘Cruise & Tour’ itinerary is crafted to maximise each guests’ time within a destination. Before and/or after each cruise, guests will embark on guided sightseeing tours and exclusive experiences ashore.

The new collection includes the 19-day ‘Cruise & Tour: Experience the Best of Italy’ where guests will set sail on a Venetian lagoon cruise and embark on an immersive land tour visiting Michelangelo’s David in

Florence and the ancient ruins of Pompeii. Prices lead in from £9,995 per person.

Uniworld managing director Chris Townson, said the new collection is “great news for agents and guests alike.

“We’ve hand-selected some of Luxury Gold’s most engaging itineraries in Europe which marry perfectly with our Uniworld sailings.”

There’s something about solo

CHOICE IS everything for operator Solos who has added more new options for single travellers to explore the world. From a eight-day ‘Finland Winter Multi-Activity’ to a 14-day ‘Southern China Explorer’, there is something for every type of solo traveller.

Middle east ON YOUR MARKS...

Celestyal Cruises has announced new Doha and Abu Dhabi F1 sailings for 2026.

THE CHEQUERED flag has been raised for two new Celestyal F1 sailings along the Arabian Gulf later this year.

Celestyal Journey will be in Doha on November 27th, 2026, for the eight-night Doha F1 itinerary where she will stay in port for three nights to allow guests the opportunity to watch all practice races, qualifying sessions and race day events.

After the excitement on the track, guests will set sail to Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sir Bani Yas Island, and Khalifa Bin Salman. Prices lead in from £659 per person.

On December 4th, 2026, Celestyal Discovery will be stationed in Abu Dhabi

for the seven-night Abu Dhabi F1 sailing. Simular to the Doha itinerary, the ship will stay docked for three days allowing guests to enjoy all the F1 has to offer before heading off on a four-night ‘Iconic Arabia’ sailing calling at Doha, Ras Al Khaimah and Khasab. Prices lead in from £689 per person.

Both fares include all meals and soft drinks and Wi-Fi, with race tickets available to purchase via Celestyal. Travel agents can pre-register for tickets via the cruise line’s agency sales team.

Lee Haslett, chief commercial officer for Celestyal, said the return to the Arabian Gulf with both ships is a “significant

Rixos readies for largest Saudi opening

RIXOS MURJANA is preparing to welcome guests into the heart of Saudi Arabia’s King Abdullah Economic City as the largest ultra all-inclusive resort in the Kingdom. With prices leading in from £1,706 for four nights in October, the resort has been designed with families and leisure seekers in mind, promising a harmonious blend of relaxation with vibrant energy.

milestone for Celestyal, and a clear reflection of the demand we continue to see for this region.

“Our previous Formula 1 sailings have been some of the most successful and talked-about itineraries we have ever operated, combining world-class sporting events with immersive destinations and the ease of a cruise holiday.”

A new ultra-luxe property has entered the Kingdom

READY TO make its mark on the ultraluxe market within the region, Nammos is opening its first-ever resort in the Middle East which is expected to build on the brand’s core philosophy of ‘endless joy’.

Nammos Resort AMAALA, penned to open this spring at AMAALA’s Triple Bay, will feature 110 guest rooms and suites along with pool bungalows, villas and 20 private residences all promising to capture the Red Sea’s dramatic sunsets.

A private island, a wellness centre, the Blu Kids Club, and three signature dining venues are also available to all guests.

Steppe deeper into Iraq’s storied past

FROM HANDS-on conservation safaris to specially-curated cultural journeys, Steppes Travel has launched a new series of tours for 2026 that go beyond tradition.

Justin Wateridge, managing director of Steppes Travel, said the company has “always believed that great journeys go beyond traditional sightseeing, and instead offer experiences that allow travellers to become immersed in destinations. With our new tours, we’re responding to a growing appetite from travellers for innovation-led travel.”

One of the new options is the 12-day ‘Southern Iraq with Sylvie Franquet’ where guests will be joined by the artist and cultural guide as they journey through the heart of ancient Mesopotamia.

From the marshlands to the ancient city of Ur towards the lively banks of Barsa, this itinerary shines a new light on the country

that is often dismissed by many. With a maximum group size of 12, the intimate tour takes travellers to renowned archaeological sites including Babylon, Uruk and the Ziggurat of Ur, balancing cultural depth and stories with the modern age.

Prices for the tour lead in from £5,495 per person, including accommodation, meals, transportation, guided excursions and listed activities. International flights are not included. Departure is scheduled for September 12th, 2026.

A new chapter in Sofitel’s global growth

SOFITEL HAS officially opened the doors on its brand-new property in Saudia Arabia –Sofitel Riyadh Hotel and Convention Centre. The new property marks the brand’s debut in the Kingdom, located in the prestigious Ar Rahmaniyyah neighbourhood.

The opening represents a key milestone for Sofitel as the property boasts the largest luxury hotel convention centre in Riyadh, alongside the standout 388 sophisticated rooms and suites. Signature French dining venues and the first Clarins Spa in Riyadh are also available to guests.

Brits flock to the nature emirate

RAS AL Khaimah is quickly becoming a ‘one to watch’ destination with British holidaymakers: the emirate saw British arrivals grow by 15% year-on-year in 2024 with luxury hotel stays by Brits increasing to 44% year on year.

Located 45 minutes away from Dubai, Ras Al Khaimah is a buzzing hub of activity for all traveller types, from those seeking getaway steeped in opulence to those searching to the next thrill of adventure.

Idyllic retreat in the heart of Doha

TRAVELLERS LOOKING for an alternative holiday destination can head to the newly-opened Rosewood Doha which offers guests an idyllic urban retreat in Lusail. Deluxe rooms look out to the expansive views of the Arabian Gulf and guests can indulge in an array of dining options from modern Levantine eateries to Qatari-made ice cream. Room rates lead in from £362 per night for a stay in April.

Family Holidays Showcase

WE BROUGHT the whole family to Liverpool and Middlesbrough last month where our wonderful supplier partners — headline sponsor Yas Island, Innstant, Inghams, Louis Hotels, Atrium, Magic Hotel Group, H10 Hotels, UKNO Hotel Management & Consulting, Grecotel, PortAventura and Jamaica Tourist Board — brought their insightful expertise and prizes to agents.

Want to get in on the #TBShowcases action? Our next Family Holidays Showcase will be coming to Oxford and Manchester in October. To confirm your place or find out when we will be hosting our next event near you contact events@travelbulletin.co.uk

indian ocean

A NEW CHAPTER

Sun Siyam is ready to begin a fresh chapter as a new group CEO has been named.

DEEPAK BOONEADY has been named as the new group CEO of Sun Siyam Group; he brings over half a decade of experience with the company, joining as group director of business development in April 2019. Since then, Booneady has worked as VP - Commercial and CEO and contributed to the brand's recent positioning shift. Group chairman and

Mauritian wellness marvels

SALT OF Palmar, a boutique adults-only property on Mauritius' east coast, recently unveiled four new wellness products.

Mind-Body-Spirit Babymoon (for expectant mothers), The Best of SALT (a greatest-hits montage of Mauritius wellness techniques), The Wellness Warrior (a transformational fitness journey) and 2-Day Reset Retreat (for the busy professional) hope to "offer guests the chance to truly reset— physically, mentally and emotionally," according to general manager Raj Reedoy.

managing director Ahmed Siyam Mohamed said the new CEO will lead "with strategic clarity, integrity, and genuine respect for our people and culture."

Ahmed Siyam Mohamed continued, "Sun Siyam was built from the heart — on a deep belief in people, purpose, and hospitality guided by love and care. Deepak has been an important part of our journey This appointment reflects our continued focus on strong, collaborative leadership and the confidence I place in him. I am proud to see him take on this role and look forward to the collective achievements

Sun Siyam Group will continue to reach together.”

The company reported the promotion of its new CEO as key to its ongoing journey to 'premiumise' its brands. The positioning shift, dubbed by the brand as its (R)evolution, marked its 35th anniversary last year. It grouped all Sun Siyam properties into three collections: Luxury, Privé, and Lifestyle

Announcing that brand move, Deepak concluded, "This rebrand is not just about design, it is about experience. It is about cultural authenticity, purposedriven hospitality and creating moments that spark joy."

Swan Hellenic dives to new depths

SWAN HELLENIC will offer exclusive scuba experiences during voyages aboard SH Minerva in 2026 and 2027. Two voyages each year will invite PADI-certified guests to world-class sites across Raja Ampat, with five or six dives per cruise. All diving equipment will be provided, and guests will head above custombuilt dive boats with expert guides before plunging to new depths.

Maldivian luxury meets environmental stewardship

TUCKED AWAY in the Shaviyani atoll in the Maldives, Sirru Fen Fushi offers guests a soulful retreat to escape the stresses of everyday life in a sanctuary where luxury is shaped by nature.

Reflecting Sirru Fen Fushi’s philosophy towards wild luxury, the exclusive Safari Beach Villa blends the elegance of a beachfront property with the organic charm of a jungle tent, while the collection of Beach and Water Villas provide a lush base of privacy and tranquility. Completing the line-up, Sirru Residences offers a collection of three beachfront villas forming a seven bedroom retreat perfect for creating lifelong memories with family and friends.

Rates lead in from approximately

£965 for a stay in a Beach Sunrise Villa on a half board basis.

The resort is also home to the Maldives’ first Coralarium, a semisubmerged art installation doubling as a coral regeneration project. This initiative allows guests to take an active role in environmental protection while enjoying the holiday of their dreams.

Manta marvels at Maamunagau

INTERCONTINENTAL MALDIVES Maamunagau Resort has announced the dates for its highly-popular 2026 Manta Retreat. Taking place on March 24th to 27th, young manta rays can be found in the resort’s lagoon, offering guests a once-ina-lifetime experience beyond the traditional Maldivian holiday. Guests can enjoy guided reef snorkelling tours, manta excursions led by the Manta Trust, and coral restoration workshops. The retreat package leads in from £1,099 per night per room with a minimum stay of four nights.

Which Winter Olympics sport would you like to try?

Jeanette Ratcliffe Publisher jeanette.ratcliffe@travelbulletin.co.uk In my dreams the Skeleton, in reality Curling!

Simon Eddolls Sales Director simon.eddolls@travelbulletin.co.uk Has to be Curling.

Sarah Terry Account Manager sarah.terry@travelbulletin.co.uk Snow Angels.

Tim Podger Account Manager - Far East tim.podger@travelbulletin.co.uk Downhill Skiing.

Leah Kelly Acting Editor leah.kelly@travelbulletin.co.uk Speed Skating! It just looks so fun.

Melissa Paddock Events Coordinator melissa.paddock@travelbulletin.co.uk Feel the Rhythm, Feel the Rhyme! Has to be the Bobsleigh.

Angel Gallagher-Dasso Digital Editor angel.gd@travelbulletin.co.uk

Easily Ski Jumping.

Holly Brown Events Coordinator holly.brown@travelbulletin.co.uk Ice Hockey. EVENTS events@travelbulletin.co.uk

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