TB 6th March 2026 web

Giving agents the edge

Weddings & Honeymoons

Dreamy destinations to make that all-important day even more magical.

Spring is finally here, with new offers and products blooming across the industry.

INSIGHT

Stacey Lee from Hays Travel shares how her customers are eager to push the boundaries.

MEDITERRANEAN ISLANDS

Prepare for a summer season like no other.

From dreamy I do’s to hotspot honeymoons.

SMALL SHIPS, BIG POTENTIAL

New data has revealed that Brits are in the market for small-ship and expedition cruising options.

NEW RESEARCH has found that interest in small-ship cruising is growing at a significantly faster rate than the wider cruise market, with searches increasing by 71% over the past two years.

Compiled by digital travel marketing agency Adido in partnership with Unforgettable Croatia, the data analysis was conducted by reviewing popular small-ship, river and expedition cruise lines, as well as generic cruising search terms.

‘Small ship cruises’, ‘luxury small ship cruises’, ‘expedition cruising’, and ‘yacht cruises’ searches have grown by more than a third (37%) over the last 24 months, with expedition cruising searches nearly tripling 2022 numbers.

CEO of Adido Andy Headington said the latest data shows that due to the volume of searches, “this isn’t just a seasonal fluctuation — it’s a meaningful shift in traveller intent.

“We’re seeing particularly strong gains around expedition and small-ship terminology, alongside sustained growth in brand searches, which typically indicates a more informed and conversion-ready customer [...] for specialist operators and agents focused on small-ship cruising, the outlook is very positive.”

By comparison, overall search demand for cruising within the UK market has increased by around 30% across the same period.

Graham Carter, co-founder of Unforgettable Croatia, said, “Small-ship cruising has moved firmly into the mainstream for UK travellers, and we’re seeing that reflected directly in both enquiry levels and booking patterns [...] guests are increasingly drawn to more intimate ships, destination-focused itineraries and experiences that feel more immersive and personal.”

Showcase Calendar

Sign

March 17th

MORE THAN 1,000 First Mates will be invited aboard Valiant Lady this summer as Virgin Voyages readies for its biggest UK and Ireland trade activation to date.

Valiant Lady’s ‘Summer Tour 2026’ will comprise seven dates across six ports: Dublin, Glasgow, Liverpool, Belfast, Edinburgh and Portsmouth. Agents will be invited aboard to be among the first people

March 18th April 13th March 16th

Valiant Lady says ‘Ahoy!’ to 1,000 agents

to see the ship’s latest upgrades, as well as receive an immersive ship tour and handson product experience.

The ship visits will also include hosted dining moments, entertainment showcases and surprises throughout the day.

Full details of the upcoming visits will be available on Virgin Voyages’ dedicated Facebook page.

Newmarket launches Tour Plus Collection

THE OPERATOR’S major new product initiative will enhance Newmarket’s escorted tour offering with the addition of 50 new options.

Created in response to the growing demand for more tailored travel, the Tour Plus collection allows guests to

expand their escorted tour experience with the addition of cruises, events, city breaks, beach stays and cultural excursions.

New options include Donegal and the Giant’s Causeway, Costa Rica, and India’s Golden Triangle.

DTH Travel expands tour portfolio

MORE THAN 25 new tours in 13 destinations will be available for agents to sell in 2026, helping to expand their selling potential by offering clients high-value itineraries across Asia.

DTH Travel’s new tours have been created with a common goal: offer travellers more meaningful immersions in destinations to follow key travel trends shaping consumer behaviour this year, namely the desire for authenticity. The tours will take travellers away from tourist hotspots and instead show them the beauty of lesser-known locations and regions.

One of the new tours is ‘The Soul of Kanchanaburi’ which places western Thailand in the spotlight with visits to Mueang Sing Historical Park as well as a range of everyday experiences including ferry crossings.

Air Transat shines the spotlight on women

THIS INTERNATIONAL Women’s Day, Air Transat is embracing the growing ‘Wandering Women’ trend and offering 15% off flights to Canada for female travellers seeking solo travel.

The airline conducted research in partnership with the City Girl Network to understand the growing demand for solo travel. The survey of more than 2,000 professional women across the UK revealed

nearly one in five now regularly travel solo for leisure, while more than one third of those who have not tried holidaying alone are planning to do so within the next two years.

Bookings made between March 6th and March 10th, 2026, using the promo-code ‘IWD26UK15’ will benefit from the 15% off sale, with return prices leading in from £448 per person.

DURING 2025, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts delivered record growth in the region with 173 new signings and opened 126 hotels, adding more than 11,500 rooms. Following these additions, Wyndham now operates more than 770 hotels across the EMEA region, with approximately 100,200 rooms, reinforcing the region’s role as a key engine of sustainable growth. Some of the new hotels in Turkiye include La Quinta by Wyndham Istanbul Kartal, and, the world’s first branded cave hotel, Signature Cave Cappadocia by Wyndham.

ANTOR reveals latest trends report

ACCORDING TO the latest ANTOR Destination Trends Report, demand from UK holidaymakers is shifting towards more local, luxurious, and quaint travel experiences in 2026. The top anticipated trends include: 70% increased demand for local experiences, 65% growth in luxury travel, 55% more trips to lesser-known locations, 40% predicting greater use of AI technology used to enhance travel, 40% stronger demand for sustainable experiences, and 30% anticipate shorter stays.

The findings provide an insight into an UK outbound market that is experience-led, with destinations reporting growing demand for authentic engagement, personalised itineraries, and high-quality short stays.

Jumeirah illuminates Arabian hospitality

A NEW Jumeirah campaign highlights Arabian Hospitality through a cinematic tribute in collaboration with Shamma Al Bastaki and Emmanuel Adjei.

The ‘Our Flame’ campaign aims to capture the essence of its Arabian hospitality through a powerful visual and emotional thread. The campaign will form an integral part of private brand engagements and cultural showcases throughout the year.

The Queen of Latin joins MSC

BALLROOM LEGEND and Strictly star Shirley Ballas is taking her glittered shoes to the high seas as MSC Cruises will welcome her onboard an exclusive seven-night dance-themed cruise through the Norwegian Fjords this summer.

Departing on May 7th, 2026, the voyage promises jaw-dropping views with toe-tapping tunes as guests are invited to join Shirley’s dance masterclass and take part in a Q&A where she will share behind-the-scenes stories from her Strictly career. Prices for the voyage lead in from £599.

PortAventura World keeps Carnival kicking

FOR THE fourth consecutive year, PortAventura World has launched its new season alongside the grandiose celebrations of Carnival. Moving away from the traditional Venetian and Brazilian carnivals, the resort offers visitors a distinctive experience that allows guests the opportunity to continue enjoying the joyful festivities for a few more weeks, with more than 70 dancers taking to the streets in daily performances.

Railbookers maximises exploration

DESIGNED FOR travellers who wish to experience more of Europe without changing hotels, Railbookers has introduced a new Stay and Explore Collection, featuring 11 itineraries built around extended stays in one central city. The Collection features stays in London, Avignon, Lyon, Paris, Reims, Munich, Rome, Florence, Venice, Edinburgh, Inverness, Barcelona and Zurich.

movers shakers&

JAMES HOWLETT has been appointed as the new Sales and Distribution Director for Solmar Villas. In the newlycreated role, James will lead and scale the sales function across B2B and B2C channels while shaping the company’s sales strategy moving forward.

A NEW trade marketing head is joining the Hong Kong Tourism Board: Joelle Watkins will further strengthen the Board’s commitment to the travel trade in her new role as Senior Manager of Trade Marketing, UK and Northern Europe.

HEBRIDEAN ISLAND Cruises is lifting its single supplement charge for three of its October 2026 sailings on Lord of the Glens, as well as offering guests a free drinks package worth £120 per person. The no supplement offer is applicable for the first five cabins booked on either the October 11th or 23rd departures of ‘Voyage Through the Heart of Scotland Cruise’ or the October 17th departure of the ‘Caledonian & Great Glen Explorer Cruise’.

Record-breaking year of flying for the UK

NEW DATA from the UK Civil Aviation Authority has confirmed that 2025 was the busiest-ever year for UK flights, with 302 million passengers passing through UK airports last year.

Group director for consumers and markets for the UK Civil Aviation Authority, Selina Chadha, said, “It has never been more popular to fly, and 2025 was officially recordbreaking. While the sector grows from

Hilton grows Iberian presence

strength to strength, we continue working with aviation partners to drive even higher safety standards and protect passengers when they fly.”

According to the data, Dublin, Alicante, Dubai, Malaga and Palma de Mallorca were the most popular destinations in terms of flight numbers, with Milan Linate, Krakow and Malta receiving the largest increases in passenger numbers.

HILTON’S LUXURY portfolio has experienced unprecedented growth over the last few months, leading to Waldorf Astoria and Conrad Hotels & Resorts both announcing the opening of new properties across the Iberian Peninsula.

Waldorf Astoria Marbella is set to open in 2029, marking the brands debut in Spain with 120 rooms and suites; while Conrad Meia Praia Algarve is slated to open in spring next year, welcoming an additional 116 keys to the popular destination. Both properties will also offer branded residences: 120 at Waldorf and 21 at Conrad.

KLM to serve 161 destinations

THIS SUMMER season, running from March 29th to October 25th, 2026, KLM will provide flights to 161 destinations worldwide, including 96 in Europe and 68 worldwide. The bolstered schedule accounts for an approximate 5% growth in seats.

AGENT INCENTIVES

● AGENTS CAN earn up to £150 in shopping vouchers per booking made across select Celestyal Cruises voyages. The incentive applies to all new bookings made until March 31st, 2026. Agents will receive £50 vouchers on any booking they make during the period, doubling up to £100 per booking for sailings departing in June, July and August 2026. The incentive rises to £150 per booking for the Athens to Jeddah repositioning sailings in November 2026 as well as the return voyages.

● FOR EVERY new trade booking made throughout the rest of 2026, Travelsphere and Just You will plant a tree at one of two sites: the Maya Forest Restoration Project in Mexico, or the Tamamdt Tree Nursery in Morocco. There is no cost to the trade and bookings are automatically registered.

● BOOKINGS REGISTERED via the Brasil Travel Specialist programme qualify for additional earning opportunities until July 20th, 2026, with Embratur hoping to "take the relationship with the global trade one step further" Flights, accommodation of three nights or more, and Feel Brasil experiences qualify for additional rewards during the promotion. Top sellers via the platform will be invited on one of two fam trip itineraries from September 25th to October 2nd, 2026.

● RIVIERA TRAVEL has announced the first-ever dedicated marketing fam trip will take place on the Amsterdam, Kinderdijk & the Dutch Bulbfields river cruise in April 2026 aboard the MS Emily Bronte. Nine lucky marketing professionals will win a place.

Agent bulletin

THE TRAVELSPHERE and Just You team have been visiting agents to deliver prizes of part of the operators’ peaks incentive. One of the lucky winners includes Chelsea Connell, Spears Travel, who scooped up a pair of Louboutin shoes, delivered by key account manager Beverly Philpotts (photographed).

Competition

AGENT TRAINING

● AVALON WATERWAYS is showing its appreciation to the trade by launching a new agent area on its website. The page will host a range of useful information for agents, including the latest incentives, deals, marketing assets and brochures. Phil Shipman, UK and Ireland sales director, said, “Our travel agent partners mean the world to us. Looking ahead, we’re doubling down on our agent partnerships — with even more targeted incentives, enhanced training opportunities, inspiring fam trips and impactful trade engagement planned.”

● PATA IS expected to deliver more training opportunities for agents over the coming weeks as the organisation looks to further boost bookings from the UK and Irish markets. Over the coming months, PATA plans to train more than 600 agents across the UK and Ireland as part of the training programme.

● WALKING SPECIALIST Involved Holidays launched its first ever training platform at the tail end of last year. The new trade tool hopes to spotlight the key selling points for its demographic of solos, couples and private groups, give agents a wide look at the depth and breadth of its product offering, and unpack its typical clientele to help agents target sales. Richard Forde, Involved Holidays' sales director, promised, "We have exciting plans to continue spreading the word on our unique style of relaxed walking holidays for solo travellers. The strategic importance of the trade makes the travel agent community a priority and as such we want to continue our endeavour to educate."

● CELESTYAL CAMPUS has made way for Celestyal Stars, a 16-module e-learning platform which also encompasses exclusive trade rates, discounts, advice on sales and marketing, and additional learning opportunities.

Luxury Holidays Showcase

LAST MONTH we brought the luxury to Salisbury, Chichester and Cobham with our first Luxury roadshow of the year!

A massive thank you to the suppliers who joined us over the three days: Expedia TAAP, Constantinou Bros Hotels, Ras Al Khaimah, Eurostar, Grecotel, Thanos Hotels, Coco Collection, Atrium Hotels, Seychelles, Sandals Resorts, Domes Resorts, Lindos Hotels, Abercrombie & Kent, Anex Tour, Jamaica Tourist Board, Scenic Tours and Sun Siyam.

Our first-ever Luxury Holidays Marketplace is coming to Norwich on March 16th! To confirm your place or find out when we will be hosting our next event near you contact events@travelbulletin.co.uk

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 19th. Solution and new puzzle will appear next week.

February 20th Solution: A=4 B=2 C=9 D=3

For all competitions visit http://www.travelbulletin.co.uk/component/r sform/form/1593-Travel-Trivia-Quiz FAMOUS FOR its natural beauty, this capital city is located on the third-largest Greek island which is renowned for being the birthplace of the ancient poet Sappho.

UK's leading river cruise and tour operator, ___ Travel (7)

Porto-Novo is the capital of

12

AGENT INSIGHT

STACEY LEE

TRAVEL CONSULTANT, HAYS TRAVEL

BEING A touring ambassador has its perks. One being that I get to put together all these fascinating adventures for our customers, whether it be a quick five-night trip to Italy, or a full-blown African safari (my personal favourite to sell, and travel to if I can).

I love it when customers come in wanting to get out of their comfort zone and really push the boundaries on their next adventure.

I am finding that more and more people want to go to places they had never thought they would dare! Some are looking for the wilderness, as long as they have a working toilet! And others are pushing the boundaries and enjoying homestays in Vietnam, secluded cabins in Norway, or desert stays in Morocco. We're all different, but I think many of us really do have a thirst for adventure and the unknown.

A recent customer I assisted is taking her two young children to Japan to visit all the sights and end their trip in a Japanese Monastery. They have never flown this far before and it is a big trip for them, so it’s been really important to me that I plan carefully to make sure it all goes as smoothly as possible. So much research has gone into their trip that I feel I could be their guide!

On a personal level, I believe adventure fuels selfdiscovery, and I learnt that when I travelled to Japan with my best friend. We decided our first trip together should be a challenge, so we spent a month travelling around Tokyo and joined a small group tour. Navigating a new country, language, and customs pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me become more confident — as well as fuelling my love of sushi! It also started my love of tours and my husband and I are now planning to join an Inside Asia tour to South Korea in the future.

Windstar Cruises unveils 21 new itineraries

THE SMALL-ship cruise line has opened bookings for its winter 2027-2028 season, giving agents access to a global deployment that includes 21 new itineraries and more than 230 sailings between September 2027 and April 2028.

The South Pacific Itinerary on Star Breeze includes a full 52-night voyage from Papeete to Singapore.

For a limited time, agents can offer clients added value on select winter 2027-2028 departures, which includes a complimentary all-inclusive package, on-board credit, and the opportunity to save an additional 5% when clients pay in full.

Early booking offers are available on select voyages through April 30th, 2026.

News Bites

• UNDISCOVERED DESTINATIONS reports 20% year-on-year sales growth in the start of 2026 in comparison to 2025. According to the BBC, international tourism is experiencing a bumper year, with travellers prioritising meaningful experiences.

• MALAYSIAN AIRLINES will introduce a third daily non-stop service between Kuala Lumpur and Doha from June 30th, 2026, due to the sustained demand for travel connections between Asia and the Middle East.

JUST GO! Holidays is offering guests a two-day trip to London, which includes tickets to see ‘Sinatra the Musical’. The two-day trip is bookable for dates between June and December 2026, from £189 per person.

Mediterranean Islands A KEY YEAR FOR IBEROSTAR

Chief commercial officer Finn Ackerman sat down with Travel Bulletin to discuss the Group’s sustainable strides over the last few years.

THIS YEAR sees Iberostar Group celebrate 70 years in tourism: after delivering over £2 billion in revenues in 2025, CEO Sabina Fluxá has made "a firm commitment to investing," with chief commercial officer Finn Ackerman unpacking the role that the UK (and travel agents) have played in the company's "massive" market growth.

Nothing beats an expanded summer programme

35 DESTINATIONS, 1.1 million seats, and an exclusive new route to the heart of the Aegean awaits Jet2 customers next summer as the airline expands its 2027 programme from Gatwick.

Not only will travellers be able to explore the medieval streets of Lesvos for the first time, there will also be more capacity to a number of popular destinations including Ibiza, Malaga, Palma (Majorca) and Tenerife.

The news comes just shy of the airline’s grand debut at London Gatwick on March 26th, allowing customers to plan their summer out of the airport over a year in advance.

Towards the end of last year, Travel Bulletin spoke to Finn as he unpacked the UK growth. “Over the last two years, [the UK market] has been thriving. In 2024, we grew 25%, and in 2025, we've grown more than 20% on top of that [...] a massive achievement.”

Iberostar Group's vice-chairman and CEO, Sabina Fluxá, echoed that sentiment, affirming "the strength of a model geared towards profitable growth and a long-term vision."

The group's long-term vision is central to Iberostar Hotels & Resorts and its Wave of Change programme, which identifies seven focus areas for

Creta

sustainable development.

Major strides were made last year: waste sent to landfill was down by over 80% against 2021, and 93% of fish and seafood from all resorts came from responsible sources (with resorts in Spain, Mexico and Portugal already hitting 100% sustainable sourcing).

"Sustainability is not really a new thing for us; it is something that has been in our DNA basically forever,” Finn iterated.

Read the rest of the interview at https://travelbulletin.co.uk/news/2026-akey-iberostar-anniversary-new-propertie s-and-sustainable-strides

THE FAMILY-owned Creta Maris has revealed the next phase of its renovation journey with the complete refurbishment of 176 Exclusive Adult Rooms, bringing the Cretan property’s total key count up to 676 rooms and suites.

The renovated rooms are an extension of the Exclusive Adult Rooms area which opened last year to allow guests over the age of 16 to enjoy a quiet and peaceful setting.

Naples to Valetta with Variety Cruises

TRAVEL UPON the Callisto or Variety Voyager across the Mediterranean from Naples to Malta on Variety Cruises’ eightday itinerary.

Departure dates start from July 4th, 2026 until July 24th, 2027, with prices from £1,529 per person, based on an August 8th, 2026 departure.

Crystal’s Piraeus to Civitavecchia extravaganza

TRAVEL ACROSS three countries and seven ports on a journey that begins in Athens and travels east through Greek waters to Turkiye before heading Westward to Italy.

The Crystal Serenity will take travellers on a seven-night adventure, with stops in Mykonos, Kusadasi, Santorini, Messina, Sorrento and Civitavecchia.

Departing on May 15th, 2026 from Piraeus, and arriving at Civitavecchia on May 22nd, 2026, the itinerary is packed with sightseeing, relaxation, and shopping. Some of the excursions guests can expect include a chance to show off their culinary skills in a Mykonian household, an archaeologist talk in Kusadasi, and a visit the scenic coast of Capri and its grottos.

On the ship, experiences to indulge in include recreational venues, such as a

or suite if booked before March 31st 2026.

Escape to Mallorcan paradise in Virgin’s latest addition

SIR RICHARD Branson’s estate is set within the Tramuntana Mountains with a breathtaking view of the Mediterranean Sea, and guests are invited to sit back and take in the pristine environment at the Son Bunyola Hotel.

Honouring the historic building, which is set to become the latest addition to the Virgin Limited Edition collection, the new hotel combines many original features with contemporary and sustainable additions. It’s one of the most exclusive hotels on the island, with only 26 rooms and suites, including the prestigious tower suites, with one housed in a 15th-century fort framing the vineyard. The former olive press forms one of two restaurants on the estate, and the historic terrace houses hold the heated infinity pool.

Guests can choose from a wide range of activities on the island, from a relaxing treatment at the spa, to tennis on one of the three courts with a private coach, and paddleboarding along the shores.

Inspiring Travel offers a lead-in price from £4,215 per person for a seven-night stay in the Mountain View Room on a B&B basis, including return easyJet flights and transfers.

A Sicilian adventure awaits

NEWMARKET HOLIDAYS is offering an eight-day itinerary to explore Italy’s beautiful southern island outpost from £1,399 per person. This itinerary combines a three-night stay close to the historic town of Cefalu, with a four-night stay beneath the fabled hill-town Taormina.

Star Clippers breaks new port record

THE TALL-ship cruise line will visit 27 new ports across seven countries in its 2027 Mediterranean programme — the highest number of new additions in the company’s history.

The new ports include Chania, Skyros and Parga in Greece, as well as a debut in Albania to the port of Sarandë. A few destinations will also make a return after a multi-year hiatus, including Symi and Kastellorizzo.

The summer 2027 programme will run from April to November.

HF Holidays highlight Malta

AS PART of HF Holidays’ revamped Solos Collection, guests can embark on a sevennight guided walking trip through the gems of Malta.

The ‘Complete Malta for Solos’ itinerary takes solo travellers through Malta’s rich history, culture and scenery, including tours of Valetta, Hagar Qim and the fishing village of Marsaxlokk. Prices lead in from £1,379 per person, including flights.

Celestial celebrations in Mallorca

JUMEIRAH MALLORCA is penned to open its doors next week for an unforgettable summer season which includes a celestial celebration centred around the rare total solar eclipse.

From March 14th, guests will be welcomed back to the iconic clifftop setting above Port de Sóller with endless views of the Mediterranean Sea with the hopes of connecting guests with Mallorca’s natural landscapes in a luxurious setting.

In collaboration with the island’s Astronomy Institute, from August 10th to 14th, 2026, guests will be treated to a series of expert-led insights into the science and splendour of the eclipse that will darken the skies on August 12th, 2026.

On the night of the eclipse, guests can enjoy lunar-inspired cocktails 100 metres above sea level in a special reception, complete with live entertainment, gastronomy and expert commentary.

Away from the four-day celestial event, guests can enjoy private yacht journeys along the north-western coast, culinary experiences within ancient olive groves and restorative wellness rituals as part of their tailored packages at the resort.

Big savings for a big summer

CELESTYAL HAS unveiled its new ‘Big Savings for a Big Summer’ campaign, valid across 100 Mediterranean and Arabian Gulf sailings in 2026 and 2027.

Running from February 20th to March 31st, 2026, the promotion combines up to 50% off savings with up to €200 onboard credit for speciality restaurants and bar beverages.

The campaign applies to 63 Mediterranean and Greek Isles voyages and 37 Arabian Gulf sailings, departing from

February 2026 to November 2027.

Mediterranean departures include Celestyal’s three and four-night ‘Iconic Greek Islands’ cruises, which start from £379 per person for a three-night sailing, and Arabian Gulf itineraries include the seven-night ‘Desert Days’ roundtrip from Dubai or Doha. Prices start from £279 per person for a three-night sailing and £569 per person for a seven-night sailing. Lee Haslett, chief commercial officer at Celestyal, said, “Our ‘Big Savings for a Big Summer’ campaign brings together what Celestyal does best — premium casual cruising with destination immersion and standout value. Guests can explore both iconic and rising star destinations across the Mediterranean and Arabian Gulf, with immersive itineraries, longer stays and meaningful experiences ashore, wrapped into one simple, value-packed fare.”

Ultimate privacy on the Emerald Coast

SET TO reopen on April 23rd, 2026, 7Pines Resort Sardinia is ready to inaugurate a new summer season in the quiet Costa Smeralda.

Part of Destination by Hyatt, the private property offers 75 rooms and suites, promising privacy and a deeply personal stay where luxury meets calm.

Splendour at sea: Scenic showcases Med gems

FROM THE French Riviera to the Italian coastline, Scenic’s Signature Yacht Cruise takes guests through the sun-drenched waters of the Mediterranean complete with iconic ports, hidden gems and the signature Scenic touch of unparalleled luxury at sea.

The six-day ‘Riviera Gems with Corsica & Sardinia’ roundtrip voyage from Nice allows sailors to experience the glamour of SaintTropez, the pastel-ports of Portofino and Alghero, and the alluring architecture of Calvi. Prices lead in from £4,912 per person based on a May 26th, 2026 departure in a Grand Deluxe Verandah Suite.

While onboard the 228-guest luxury Discovery Yacht, guests can indulge by relaxing in the Senses Spa; dining in one of 10 unique culinary experiences; exploring the skies using Swarovski Telescopes in the

Observation Lounge, and enjoying the vast array of daily entertainment available in the Scenic Lounge and Theatre.

weddings & honeymoons

MARRY ME, MADEIRA

Visit Madeira has launched a new International Weddings and Honeymoons product to showcase the island’s unique offerings for that special day.

VISIT MADEIRA has its sights set down the aisle and beyond with the introduction of its newly-curated ‘International Weddings and Honeymoons’ product: a move which hopes to position the island as a standout choice for couples looking to spend their big day in paradise.

Anniversary celebrations unlike any other

VELAS RESORTS is offering couples a glimpse into married life a year early with the launch of its ‘Minus One-Year Anniversary’ package — a programme that turns a traditional venue visit into an immersive romantic celebration.

Engaged couples can experience their wedding destination 365 days before the big day, as well as enjoy a range of ultraluxe extras including an exclusive one-hour photoshoot, private tasting sessions and a couples’ spa treatment.

The ‘Minus One-Year Anniversary’ experience leads in from $6,600 (£4,890) and can be booked through Velas’ wedding concierge team.

A spokesperson from Visit Madeira said, “Madeira has always been a place of welcome — a destination where every couple can find a corner of beauty that belongs to their dreams.”

Some of the key features of the Weddings and Honeymoons product include a diverse range of venue options to cater to every couples’ desire, whether it be to tie the knot at the foothills of a historic monument or walk down the aisle with their nearest and dearest in a boutique setting.

Known as the ‘Island of Eternal Spring’, Madeira is well-suited to host outdoor ceremonies in any season, offering

couples’ ample choice for their perfect wedding date.

It is not just the big day that Madeira is eager to host, but the honeymoon as well. From world-class gastronomy and wine experiences to spas steeped in serenity and personalised activities, the island presents itself as a haven for newlyweds to escape and bask in their love for each other, all while taking in the stunning scenery.

As part of the new product launch, agents have access to destination information packs and support materials to help make their clients’ dream day a reality.

AS PART of its 2026 sales mission, ONYX Hospitality Group is spotlighting weddings and honeymoons travel, showcasing its established Australian wedding partners’ programme and its experience in hosting destination weddings across Thailand. Throughout its portfolio, ONYX offers a wide range of wedding experiences, from lavish ballroom receptions to more intimate immersive blessings.

Feel the island vibes down the aisle

HOUSING THE largest ballroom in Barbados as well as three bespoke venues, Wyndham Grand Barbados, Sam Lord’s Castle offers an idyllic setting for all couples to celebrate their nuptials.

Couples can say ‘I do’ to the Ocean Bluff Lawn, the Sapphire Gardens or the Diamond Valley venues, each offering their own unique setting to fit the needs of the guests. For the more elaborate celebrations, the Trident Grand Ballroom can hold up to 1,000 guests.

Elevated all-inclusive honeymoons

THOSE WHO stay at either the OBLU SELECT Lobigili or the OBLU SELECT Sangeli resorts in the Maldives will be treated to an elevated all-inclusive experience: a perfect start to married life.

From private transfers to spa treatments, fine dining experiences, curated excursions, and unlimited cocktails, the resort promises newlyweds a serene stay in paradise.

Discover the art of weddings in Bali

SET WITHIN the undulating hills of Bali’s highlands, Tanah Gajah, a resort by Hadiprana, is offering a curated celebration for couples seeking a refined and private wedding experience.

As part of ‘The Art of Weddings’ experience, the resort blends traditional Balinese design with expansive gardens and exclusive use of the estate to provide an unforgettable day. The ceremony itself will be held in an open-air amphitheatre, framed by the distinctive Elephant Gate.

For a more exuberant affair, the ‘Exclusive Wedding Buyout’ option offers couples everything included in the wedding package alongside full access to the resort for two nights, comprising 20 suites and villas for up to 50 guests. Guests can also enjoy bespoke dining, spa treatments, private transfers, cultural performances and activities such as cycling excursions and walks through rice paddies.

Beyond the ceremony, couples can opt for ‘The Art of Romance’ package, including a floral bath in the One Bedroom Club Suite, an elegant afternoon tea picnic, a 120minute couples’ spa ritual, a private three-course dinner, and a photoshoot within the landscaped gardens.

Leonardo’s waterfront wedding wonders

STYLE , CONVENIENCE and unforgettable experiences await couples who choose to celebrate their big day at the Leonardo Royal Hotel Southampton Grand Harbour this year.

With impressive views across the marina and river, the hotel creates a picture-perfect backdrop for couples to tie the knot. The property’s event space can hold up to 1,762 people, meaning every wedding type is catered for, whether it be an intimate

ceremony or a grand celebration. Couples can choose from a range of tailored packages, featuring exclusive room hire, bespoke menus, curated decor, a variety of entertainment options, and onsite spa facilities for pre-wedding pampering. Dedicated wedding planners are on hand to work closely with the couple, handling everything from floral displays to the seating arrangements.

Andy Gray, general manager at the Leonardo Royal Hotel Southampton, said, “From terrace drinks receptions with panoramic harbour views to fully customisable packages, every celebration here is carefully designed to feel unique, personal and extraordinary. Our experienced team takes pride in working closely with each couple to bring their vision to life, whether they’re planning an intimate gathering or full-out party.”

Spain In A Day

AS THE UK finally welcomed the first rays of sun in 2026, our ‘Spain In A Day’ event felt right at home!

The Spanish Riviera came to Weybridge on February 25th, where agents learnt everything there is to know about the Brits’ favourite destination and took home a host of wonderful prizes courtesy of our lovely supplier partners: THB Hotels, PortAventura World, Costa Blanca, Sandos Hotels & Resorts, Inmood Hotels, Iryo, and Flip Flop.

Thank you to everyone who attended!

Want to get in on the #TBShowcases action? Our next event will be the Middle East In A Day Showcase taking place in Woking on March 10th. To confirm your place or find out when we will be hosting our next event near you contact events@travelbulletin.co.uk

exploration & adventure ARCTIC ADVENTURES

AS THE desire for more small-group tours continues to grow across the industry, Scandinavian luxury curator Up Norway has expanded its tour offering with new additions.

The trips showcase Up Norways ethos: to provide transformative experiences with sustainable practices while maintaining the company’s commitment to low-impact travel.

Within the new collection of tours, the seven-day ‘Arctic Women, Blazing Trails: Women-Led Arctic Survival Expedition’ adventure takes 14 guests across Norway’s most remote northern landscapes. The journey will be led by

Randi Skaug, the first woman to summit Everest and complete the Seven Summits, and Hege Enge Dekkerhus, the founder of Norwegian Wild. Guests will learn foundational survival skills on Naustholmen before heading to Senja for kayaking, husky sledding, hiking and stories under the Polar sky. This trip will depart on September 30th, 2026, with prices leading in from $5,785 (£4,289) per person for double occupancy.

Another option is the 10-day ‘Late Summer Road Trip in Southwestern Norway with Norway House’ itinerary, taking 10 guests through the region’s most evocative landscapes, from

FOLLOW IN the footsteps of ancient leaders as City Experiences’ Walks brand has unveiled a new range of overnight tours in Italy. The tours include the two-day ‘Rome to Amalfi Coast’ where guests can explore the ruins of Pompeii with an archaeologist, and the two-day ‘Rome to Florence & Tuscany’ which offers VIP access to Michelangelo’s David.

Stravanger’s coastal charm to Setesdal Valley’s pastoral highlands. The itinerary promises a balance of cultural immersion with outdoor adventure. Prices lead in from $7,878 (£5,836) per person based on double occupancy. Departure is scheduled for September 11th, 2026.

NEW VOLUN-TOURISM adventures are available in Yosemite as Mariposa Trails has introduced more experiences to allow guests to give back and help restore the national park’s trails.

Each two-day experience at Bishop Creek, Cold Canyon, and Pinoche Peak include tools, safety gear and guided ecology talks, with afternoons free for guest to relax or explore the park.

Led by founder Bill King, the adventures give guests a new way to test their adrenaline in the stunning landscape while helping to give back in a meaningful way.

Becoming one with Okinawa

OGIMI MARUGOTO Tourism

Association is launching a new agritourism initiative, which is set among the sugarcane fields and subtropical hills of northern Okinawa.

The project blends sustainable farming, wellness and slow-travel with hands-on workshops in traditional Awamori rice-spirit brewing, local fruit harvesting, and Bingata textile dyeing.

Guests will stay in eco-designed villas built with Okinawan wood and coral milestone; dine on seasonal island produce; and join communityled tours. This is so the traveller can fully understand the tranquil lifestyle that Okinawa provides.

Travellers will become fullyimmersed in the Okinawan lifestyle,

nature, and deep-rooted culture with cycling, waterfall, and sea kayaking tours. Other experiences available include snorkelling, candle-making, clay Shisha-making, boat fishing, and a vast array of unique treks to take in the nature of Okinawa.

This initiative is available to be booked all-year round.

New Saudi Arabia walking holidays

RAMBLE WORLDWIDE is expanding its range of expert guided walking holidays to the Middle East with the introduction of a new destination: Saudi Arabia.

The introduction brings four new itineraries ranging from seven- to 11-nights, including a dedicated women-only option.

What has been your favourite adventure?

Jeanette Ratcliffe Publisher jeanette.ratcliffe@travelbulletin.co.uk

I can’t decide between my Big Sur roadtrip or helicopter tour landing in the base of the Grand Canyon!

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

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

I’m torn between between travelling around Mexico, Brazil and Cuba!

Tim Podger Account Manager - Far East tim.podger@travelbulletin.co.uk 1989 backpacking in Australia and Thailand.

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

Spending a year in Canada!

Melissa Paddock Events Coordinator melissa.paddock@travelbulletin.co.uk Exploring LA!

Holly Brown Events Coordinator holly.brown@travelbulletin.co.uk Adventure park in Mexico.

Angel Gallagher-Dasso

Digital Editor angel.gd@travelbulletin.co.uk

Living in Wales for three years, it was such a learning experience!

The 11-night ‘Women’s Adventure’ itinerary, departing from November 21st to December 2nd, 2026, leads in from £7,999.

The price includes return flights.