Travel Bulletin 17th April

Giving agents the edge

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Test your limits with the most exhilarating attractions opening this year!

The latest headlines on the approach to the summer season.

Discover the latest training opportunities and special incentives to help you sell.

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HOME AWAY FROM HOME

EARLIER THIS year, UK holiday provider Away Resorts surveyed 3,000 Brits to uncover their preferences when it comes to choosing their ideal getaway, from the budgets to the booking process.

According to the survey, the majority of UK travellers look to return home having felt relaxed (69%), refreshed (55%) and comforted (36%), highlighting emotional well-being as a priority for many. A quarter of those surveyed said they seek inspiration while they travel, with another 25% also searching for an active boost while away.

Even after the world opened up again following the pandemic, UK staycations still remain hot competition for adventures further afield. 46% of those surveyed said they would choose a UK staycation as an ideal trip for them, compared to the 45% seeking a holiday abroad. In terms of where Brits are going on their holidays, 52% chose a beach or coastal holiday as their desirable

destination, with city breaks following at 45%, and countryside getaways at 34%. More active escapes like skiing holidays have fallen in popularity, with 12% citing them as ideal holiday.

As a nation of routine-followers and creatures of habit, it is no surprise that 62% of Brits say that access to home comforts and having a ‘home away from home’ is one of the most important features for a holiday, with luxury experiences (58%) and trying new activities (57%) following suit.

The survey revealed that UK holidaymakers design their trips around togetherness and time spent with loved ones, with partners (58%) and children (38%) making the best companions.

While cost, activities and reviews remain an important factor when choosing a holiday destination, three-in-five people now consider the aesthetics and ‘Instagramvibe’ before booking.

Showcase Calendar

May 11th

Sign

May 18th Wokingham

Newmarket introduces tour-only product

IN PARTNERSHIP with Incredible Journeys, Newmarket Holidays has launched a new ‘Tour Only’ product, allowing agents to sell land-only escorted tours as part of tailored itineraries.

Agents will be able to package tours with flights, pre- and post-stays, and additional excursions to create a fully bespoke itinerary.

The first phase of the programme features 30 tours across destinations in the US, Europe, Asia and Africa, including Greece, Malaysia, South Africa, Italy, France, Croatia, India, Japan, Kenya and Sri Lanka.

The new product forms part of Newmarket’s wider strategy to offer greater flexibility and choice alongside its ranges.

Virgin Voyages offers up to £750 off

TRAVELLERS CAN save up to £750 in Virgin Voyages’ new sale, and earn 70% off a second guest. Running until May 28th, 2026, the promotion is available across Virgin Voyages’ full programme of itineraries. For the duration of the campaign, First Mates will

also benefit from £5 per booking in First Mate Loot on every confirmed sale.

SJ Walker, UK director of sales, said, “Our First Mates are incredible at what they do, and this campaign gives them everything they need to close deals with real confidence.”

ABTA boosts business according to new report

NEW RESEARCH has found that 89% of people are more likely to book their holidays with an ABTA member.

In ABTA’s latest annual market research, 1,000 consumers were surveyed nationwide, with nearly 9/10 people stating they would be more likely to book with an ABTA member. More than half (54%) of those surveyed also said they are willing to pay more for a holiday booked through an ABTA member. The number of people surveyed who associate ABTA with ‘safe’, ‘reassuring’, ‘experts’ and ‘confidence’ has increased, with each factor scoring over 83%.

Mark Tanzer, chief executive at ABTA, said, “The results of this brand research are testament to the professionalism, dedication and hard work of ABTA members and their teams.”

Travelsphere launches new touring options

TRAVELSPHERE HAS unveiled a selection of new tours for 2027, spanning across mainland Europe and southern Africa.

Kathy Farahat, Travelsphere product and operations director, said, “These new tours reflect the growing appetite we’re seeing for immersive, expertly guided experiences.”

Some of the new tours include the six-night ‘Winter in Switzerland’ itinerary which features a journey on the GoldenPass Express

to Montreaux, a visit to Grindelwald, and a visit to Lauterbrunnen village for a chocolatemaking workshop. Prices start from £2,579 per person.

The 11-night ‘Livingstone’s Africa – Victoria Falls, Botswana & Zimbabwe’ is part of the Royal Geographic Society Collection and includes drives in Chobe National Park and Hwange National Park, with prices leading in from £4,999 per person.

RateHawk celebrates 10 years with lucky dip

Ambassador launches free parking offer

THE CRUISE line’s spring promotion offers free parking or coaching for a range of cruises departing up to March 2028.

Available for guests booking select sailings before May 27th, 2026, the promotion includes free parking at London Tilbury, Bristol, Portsmouth, Liverpool, Belfast, Dundee and Newcastle ports, or free coach transfers from London Victoria Coach Station to the Port of Tilbury.

BAHIA PRINCIPE has refreshed its visual identity to strengthen its position in the all-inclusive market while enhancing the booking experience. The new customer-centric structure simplifies the experience by organising sub-brands into the adults-only and all-ages categories: Bahia Principe Escape (includes exclusive adults-only hotels) and Bahia Principe Explore (for properties designed with families in mind).

TO CELEBRATE its 10-year anniversary, RateHawk has launched the ‘Super Lucky Draw’ with 100 exciting prizes and offers to be won.

Special offers to select hotels in RateHawk’s most booked destinations worldwide are available. Other prizes to be won include top tech gadgets and hotel vouchers to digital gift cards and exclusive RateHawk merchandise.

The draw will run through to May 4th, 2026. Each week, 25 winners will be selected. In addition, celebrations expand with a special hotel offers promotion, with 100 select hotels worldwide offering special anniversary rates, from April 20th to April 30th, 2026.

Air Transat connects the capitals

TAKING TO the skies from May 15th, 2026, Air Transat is offering new direct flights from London Gatwick to Ottawa three times per week. The new service will take Air Transat’s number of direct flights from the UK to Canada up to 34 per week in peak season. For a limited time, travellers can enjoy fares from £369 per person

return on select dates departing between April 7th and December 16th, 2026. The tickets must be booked by April 27th.

The campaign is available across a range of no-fly sailings aboard Ambience and Ambition

Riviera launches full 2027 yacht season

BOOKINGS FOR Riviera’s full 2027 yacht programme are now open, with all departures available at 10% off until May 27th, 2026.

The programme includes the ‘Dubrovnik, Split & Jewels of the Dalmatian Coast’ itinerary aboard MV Felicita from £1,899 per person, and the ‘Opatija, Zadar & Northern Gems of the Adriatic’ sailing aboard MS Equator priced from £1,749 per person. Most routes remain unchanged for the season.

River-to-ocean with Windstar’s newest cruise product

WINDSTAR’S NEW product will combine the joys of exploring the world’s waterways with the peaceful serenity of ocean cruises.

The cruise line’s newest yacht, Star Explorer, will drive the new product line forward. Purpose-built for river-to-ocean

travel, the yacht is designed to navigate meandering rivers that are too small for larger ships and reach coastal destinations small river ships cannot.

The new product gives agents an exciting option to offer their clients who want to travel further without compromising the style of travel they already love. Agents can build on the same intimate, destination-focused experience their clients love while offering new adventures. Itineraries include the 10night ‘Impressionist France’ itinerary, which is an ideal choice for Seine veterans ready to go further. Prices lead in from £6,326 per person. Another option is the eightnight ‘Moroccan Markets & Iberian Icons’ sailing for Danube cruisers seeking deeper cultural exploration. Prices start from £6,100 per person.

HOLLAND AMERICA Line has launched a ‘Fly and Cruise Caribbean’ offer for its 2026/27 season. The offer is available until August 26th, 2026, and comprises of £600 air credit per person, a free one-night pre-cruise hotel stay and free transfers from airports, hotels and ships.

MSC Cruises’ changes course

A REVISED programme has been announced for MSC Cruises’ Winter 2026/2027 season with MSC World Europa making her debut in the French Antilles.

Originally penned to sail in the Middle East from November 2026 to April 2027, MSC World Europa will now operate seven- and 14night itineraries from Fort-de-France in Martinique, Pointe- à- Pitre in Guadeloupe, and Bridgetown in Barbados.

Port calls will be made to Saint Lucia, Grenada, St. Maarten, Antigua and Barbuda, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Dominica, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

The deployment change will see MSC World Europa replace MSC Seaview, which will be redeployed in Brazil and Argentina for the season. Guests who booked on MSC World Europa for the Winter 2026/2027 are being contacted directly regarding options.

Vietnam Airlines launches London schedule

THE AIRLINE’s Summer 2026 schedule will see three nonstop services per week depart from London Heathrow to Hanoi and two per week to Ho Chi Minh City.

The summer schedule is already in place, becoming effective from March 29th, 2026. Fares lead in from £799 per person for a return ticket to Hanoi from London, and £787 per person return to Ho Chi Minh City.

A new connection between Ho Chi Minh City and Phuket has already commenced on a thrice-weekly basis. From May 31st, Vietnam Airlines will increase direct flight frequencies from Ho Chi Minh City to Manilla, up to 15 times per week.

Involved Holidays are a step ahead

THE WALKING specialist has released its 2027 itineraries ahead of schedule due to a sell-out 2026 and high demand for early bookings.

Popular itineraries including ‘Hidden Eastern Algarve’ and ‘Walking in Provence’ are on sale.

AGENT INCENTIVES

• AGENTS WHO make a Princess Cruises’ booking by the end of April have the chance to win a place on the cruise line’s upcoming fam trip. There are three ways to win: each registered booking will count as one entry into the prize draw; agents can attend live training sessions with Princess’ national training and engagement manager; and agents can also engage with Princess’ social media posts across Instagram and Facebook.

• UNTIL MAY 28th, Virgin Voyages’ First Mates will earn £10 per booking across select European sailings. The incentive applies to 12 Virgin Voyages cruises aboard Scarlet Lady and Valiant Lady departing in May and June 2026.

• AGENTS CAN earn a free Exodus tour for themselves in the adventure operator’s new incentive running until June 30th, 2026. Agents who make three bookings on any small group tour will earn a free Exodus Adventure Travels tour worth up to £1,500. The prize for six bookings is a tour of their choice worth up to £3,000.

• FRED. OLSEN Cruise Lines is offering agents the chance to win an unforgettable cruise experience as part of its Spring Savings campaign. Eight lucky winners will secure a place on an exclusive Fleet Fiesta educational sailing aboard Balmoral. To enter, agents must register valid bookings to Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines’ Travel Agent Centre by May 5th, 2026.

• TO CELEBRATE the success of its Antarctica season, HX Expeditions is offering one lucky agent the chance to win a spot on a 12-day fam trip to Antarctica later this year by booking any suite by April 30th

Agent bulletin

SUNVIL SUCCESSFULLY hosted an educational agent trip to Swedish Lapland last month to help the agents deepen their understanding of the authentic, sustainable travel experiences on offer. Organised in partnership with the Arctic Sweden Visitor’s Board, the trip bought together representatives from Designer Travel, Not Just Travel, Travel Counsellors, The RB Collection, and Deva Travel

Competition

AGENT TRAINING

● BECOME AN Austrian expert with the Austrian Tourist Board’s interactive training course that offers agents a range of AI modules, quizes, coaching and roleplay scenarios to help sell the destination with confidence. Once you’ve applied everything you have learnt in a roleplay exercise, a certificate will be awarded to you, making you a certified expert in all things Austria, from winter escapes to city break experiences

● TEST YOUR St. Pete Clearwater knowledge and have the chance to become one of 30 agents to enjoy a four-night fam trip to the destination this June. Agents can dive into a series of training modules to earn their badge and unlock top-selling tips and practical insights to help boost bookings to the Sunshine State.

● BECOME AN Expert in all things Mann by taking Visit Isle of Man’s online training course for the trade. Learn about the ancient history and folklore that shapes everyday life on the island, and gain an insight into why 98.7% of visitors say their Manx holiday ‘exceeded expectations’. Once the course is complete, agents will earn a shout out on the trade platform. Agents can also log their bookings and be in with chance of winning £100s worth of Amazon vouchers.

● LEARN more about the must-see destination of AlUla: a region of outstanding natural beauty and cultural significance in North-West Saudi Arabia. AlUla itself is an untold story of land preserved by time, and agents can take the online training course to learn more about the four significant heritage sites, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hegra, as well as be some of the first people to find out the plans in store for the destination’s future.

Elevating

Australia’s

rail journeys one suite at a time

JOURNEY BEYOND has set a new benchmark for Australian luxury rail travel with the debut of the Aurora Australis Suites aboard the Indian Pacific.

The new suites introduce an elevated experience steeped in opulence for guests travelling through Australia by rail, with

more space, high-quality design and top-tier service.

Chris Tallent, CEO of Journey Beyond, said, “The debut of the Aurora Australis Suites represents a new chapter for Journey Beyond and for luxury travel in Australia. Our iconic trains have long connected guests with some of the country’s most extraordinary landscapes, and these suites elevate that experience to an entirely new level. They offer guests a private sanctuary on board, a place to unwind and fully immerse themselves in the journey across this remarkable continent.”

There is high demand for the new suites, with 95% of departures sold out for the 2026 season. 2027 departures are now available to book, with prices leading in from £8,825 per person for the Australis Suite and £5,881 per person for the Aurora Suite for a threeday journey.

SOMABAY HAS opened its new boutique escape, Good Days Boutique Hotel, for guests seeking a personalised getaway to Egypt’s Red Sea riviera. The hotel comprises 24 bespoke rooms, each designed with their own personality, with poolside lodges, lakefront rooms or golf course views. Prices lead in from £182 per night for a standard double room.

Cayman Islands reports fab February

THE CAYMAN Islands has recorded a strong performance in February 2026, with 49,075 stayover visitors representing a 10.1% year-onyear increase and marking the second-strongest February on record.

Visitation from the UK & Ireland reached 1,783 visitors for the month, an increase of 12.8% year-on-year and represents the strongest February on record for the market.

The Hon. Gary Rutty, Deputy Premier and

Sofitel signs El Gouna icon

Minister of Tourism and Trade Development, said, “Delivering one of the strongest February performances in our history, following a recordbreaking January, demonstrates the continued success of our strategic focus on airlift expansion, targeted marketing and strong industry partnerships. The Cayman Islands continues to perform at a high level across multiple markets, reinforcing our position as a leading premium destination in the Caribbean.”

SOFITEL HAS signed the Sofitel El Gouna Resort, expanding Accor’s luxury portfolio in Egypt. The former Mövenpick El Gouna will become Sofitel’s latest property, with an extensive expansion and renovation programme set to begin in 2027 to transform the property into a flagship for the destination under the Sofitel brand.

Maud Bailey, CEO of Sofitel, said, “Egypt has always held a special place in Sofitel’s story, and the signing of Sofitel El Gouna Resort represents a new chapter in our journey here. El Gouna embodies a rare balance of nature, community and international lifestyle, making it an ideal setting for Sofitel.”

Audley releases 2025 sustainability report

TAILOR-MADE specialist Audley Travel has published its annual sustainability report, highlighting the operator’s latest achievements in its long-term committment to responsible tourism. The report outlines that 92% of its goals were met in 2025.

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, April 30th.

Solution and new puzzle appear next week.

April 3rd Solution: A=2 B=4 C=6 D=1

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

Cruise line, part of the TUI family (7)

Cross-Solent ferry operator, ___ Funnel (3)

Rail and sail with Star Clippers’ new brochure

THE SPECIALIST cruise line has launched its second printed brochure consisting solely of rail-inspired sailing journeys, comprising 55% more featured packages in comparison to the brochure’s debut in Spring 2025.

Within the brochure, a

variety of handpicked sailings across the Mediterranean and Caribbean have been blended with rail-based pre and postcruise elements that have been curated for guests seeking adventures with a range of prices.

‘Puglia & Rome: A Trulli Unforgettable Journey’ begins with a three-night stay in Bari, which includes a first-class rail excursion to Rome, followed by a three-night cruise on board Star Clipper to visit Corsica and Elba. This itinerary is priced from £3,349 per person.

Another itinerary included in the ‘Rail & Sail’ packages is the 21-night ‘Paris Stay & Venice Simplon-Orient-Express to Istanbul with Aegean Sailing’ from £27,499 per person. This journey includes a five-night rail experience aboard the Venice SimplonOrient-Express with a 10-night sailing on board Star Flyer

WIZZ AIR will operate more than 104 routes to 77 destinations from the UK this summer, marking its largest-ever UK summer schedule. London will play a critical role in Wizz Air’s deployment schedule, with 69 routes departing from London Luton Airport and 20 routes from London Gatwick.

A new direct service comes to Jamaica

THIS SUMMER , Virgin Atlantic is expanding its flight schedule to the UK with a new daily service from London Heathrow to Montego Bay.

From June 1 st to October 24 th , 2026, the airline will deliver an extra 15,480 seats across the summer season, providing enhanced connectivity and greater choice for UK travellers.

Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism, Hon.

Edmund Bartlett, said, “The UK remains one of our most important source markets, and this increased airlift will be instrumental in driving our continued recovery and growth. We are particularly encouraged by its show of confidence at such a pivotal time, and we look forward to working closely with our airline partners to ensure Jamaica remains front of mind for British travellers.”

Secret Atlas makes family moments matter

A NEW kind of luxury based around quality time and life-long memories is coming this summer as Secret Atlas is launching its Private Expeditions to the Arctic designed for multigenerational travel.

The Expeditions offer families a more personal way to explore Svalbard, Greenland and Northern Norway, combining privacy, flexibility and meaningful time spent together. Families will enjoy exclusive use of one of Secret Atlas’ smaller expedition vessels, with a maximum allowance of 12 people. Available from May to September, families can set sail to Svalbard, Greenland and Northern Norway with a bespoke schedule curated around the group’s needs and desires.

P&O Cruises unveils Britannia 2027 schedule

FIVE NEW Britannia cruises are now on sale for agents to offer their clients for departures in April 2027. The new programme features a mix of short breaks, seven-night itineraries and a unique 14-day voyage sailing through both Europe and Norway.

MEDITATE IN THE MED

Relax and rejuvenate in Malta’s latest luxury wellness resort that promises to focus on the wellbeing of all guests.

MARVEL AT the far-reaching views across Malta’s landscapes in the new adults-only Verdala AX Privilege hotel in the historic town of Rabat, located moments from Mdina.

The resort focuses on the wellbeing of all guests, offering some of the island’s most advanced and tranquil spaces. Guests will have access to a hammam,

Mercury Holidays launches new brochure collection

THE TOUR operator has launched its latest collection of brochures, including Escorted Tours, Worldwide Holidays and River and Ocean Cruises for 2026 and 2027.

The new series follows the successful collection launched in January. Included within the brochures is a vast selection of Beach Holidays, including options in Malta, Cyprus, Spain and Portugal.

To celebrate the launch of the collection, Mercury Holidays is offering exclusive discounts throughout April: up to £400 per couple off selected 2026 and all 2027 dates, and £100 per couple off all 2026 Beach Holidays.

infrared cabins, a sauna, a salt cave, hot and cold baths and an indoor heated pool within a one-of-a-kind cave design. A meditation zone, energy loungers and a fully equipped health and fitness centre are also available for guests to enjoy the contemporary luxury in a calm atmosphere.

The resort offers guests the perfect home to switch off and relax, accompanied by the rugged yet picturesque backdrop of Malta away from the crowds. While staying at the resort, holidaymakers can indulge in varying sessions including yoga, Pilates, or meditation, as well as book into

private rooms for physiotherapy and IV therapy. Alongside a plethora of wellness activities to help rejuvenate any guest, the resort’s culinary scene is also a highlight. An elevated dining experience is available, offering guests a front-row view as the chef prepares each plate in front of them.

Escape to this luxury wellness retreat with Inspiring Travel which is offering a seven-night break from £1,615 per person when booked before August 24th, 2026.

The price includes return flights and transfers. Travel must be between May 1st and October 31st, 2026.

market

A NEW chapter for KM Malta Airlines is on the horizon as the airline expands its partnership with Discover the World to enter the UK market.

Under the agreement, Discover the World will represent KM Malta Airlines in the UK and work closely with travel agencies to enhance visibility, drive engagement and support the airline’s commercial development in this key market.

Experience the Med in ultimate luxury

ABERCROMBIE & KENT has launched the full collection of A&K x Crystal Cruises voyages set to debut in 2027 after the sold-out success of its inaugural sailing departing this August.

One of the itineraries set for 2027 is the 10-day ‘The Insider’s Mediterranean’ which take guests on a journey steeped in cultural richness spanning across Malta, Sardinia, Tunisia and Spain. The voyage will begin in Malta’s capital of Valetta with guests staying at the Corinthia Palace. Prices lead in from £17,210.

Jet2 takes flight from London Gatwick

SINCE

ANNOUNCING London

Gatwick as its 14th UK airport base, the airline and tour operator have reported a ‘phenomenal response’ and have since launched their winter 2026/2027 and summer 2027 season to meet the sharp influx in demand.

Malta is one of the 29 sunshine destinations that Jet2 will regularly fly to from London Gatwick.

Elegant Resorts debuts Maltese marvels

THE LUXURY tour operator will launch Malta as its latest destination in its curated spring portfolio. Malta’s rich culture, vast gastronomy, and sandy beaches are highlighted within Elegant Resorts portfolio of Maltese gems.

Spring in Malta allows for an idyllic break due to its proximity to the UK. The capital, Valletta, is a UNESCO World Heritage City filled with sights and activities for all ages.

Elegant Resorts offers an exclusive private tour of the Co-Cathedral before its public hours. Furthermore, they offer an exclusive VIP evening of art, music and history in the Oratory with Caravaggiothemed performances. In Rabat, the Serkin Crystal Palace is the most authentic place to sample pastizzi.

The Phoenicia Malta is a historic five-star luxury hotel, that boasts an infinity pool overlooking the Marsamxett Harbour.

The private itinerary ‘Discover Malta’ is a

thoughtfully curated five-day itinerary which offers a unforgettable introduction to the spirit of the island. Guests will stay at the Phoenicia Malta, with private tours of Valletta and beyond.

Prices for this adventure start from £4,210 per person.

HF Holidays revamps solo offering

HF HOLIDAYS has introduced a revamped Solos Collection for 2026, alongside an expanded Overseas Programme and new Guided Walking with Sightseeing holidays in the UK and Ireland.

‘Complete Malta for Solos’ is a sevennight solo overseas holiday exclusive to 16 guests. The guided walking holiday occurs during the mild winters and explores all that the island has to offer in terms of culture, history, and scenery. The city of

Valletta, megalithic temples and the quaint fishing village of Marsaxlokk are available for in-depth walking tours.

Prices for this solo itinerary start from £1,379 per person and include flights, halfboard accommodation, guided walks, and all in-destination transport.

A new addition to the extended overseas programme is one of HF Holidays’ most popular European destinations. The sevennight ‘Festive Walking in Madeira’ departs on December 21st, 2026. The trip is priced at £2,149 per person and includes flights, and accommodation.

HF Holidays is a popular choice for solo travellers which is evident from the repeat booking data. To cater to the high demand, HF Holidays has added additional dates exclusively for solo travellers across a range of itineraries.

Riviera transports guests back in time

TAKE A step back in time and explore the crossroads into the ancient world with Riviera Travel’s selection of Malta itineraries.

The eight-day ‘Highlights of Malta & Gozo’ Signature escorted tour takes guests on a whistlestop tour through the historic island, with tours through the city of Valetta and a visit to the Malta Experience; the chance to explore the Upper Barracca Gardens and witness the cannon fire; a day spent on Malta’s little sister island, Gozo; and the opportunity to enjoy afternoon tea at the 18th century palazzo in the Italian gardens.

Prices for the tour lead in from £1,889 per person.

If your clients are travelling solo, the eight-day ‘Malta Uncovered for Solo Travellers’ itinerary takes guests to some of Malta’s most prestigious sites. The tour will begin in Valetta where guests can explore the 16th century city before heading over to

Gozo to see the prehistoric temple and dramatic coastlines. Guests will also visit the Roman catacombs in Rabat and the ‘silent city’ of Mdina before ending the tour in the quaint waterside villages and fortified cities surrounding the Blue Grotto and Hagar Qim. Prices lead in from £1,479 per person. Riviera is currently offering £99 deposits for applicable dates across all holidays, as well as up to 10% off European tours departing in 2027.

The perfect teenage dream is back

ON JULY 22nd, 2026, the summer festival Isle of MTV Malta will return bigger and better than ever in Floriana, ready to bring the party atmosphere firmly to the ancient island.

This year, global pop icon Katy Perry will headline the festival, bringing her biggest

hits and energy to the stage.

The festival has become a staple in the European summer calendar, attracting tens of thousands of locals and visitors alike. The festival is free to enter, with weekend packages and VIP upgrades available to buy closer to the day.

Variety Cruises offers Italy and Malta sale

EMBARK ON a captivating cruise through the Med, setting sail from Valletta to Naples on the eight-day ‘Sicilian Sunsets & Amalfi Delights’ itinerary. Guests will begin their journey in the Maltese capital where guests can explore the city at their leisure before heading aboard Variety Voyager and setting sail for Sicily. Over the eight days, guests will visit Valletta, Agrigento, Trapani, Palermo, Lipari, Sorrento and Naples.

The first departure is scheduled for June 27th, 2026, and will other an additional three departures on July 11th, 2026, July 3rd, 2027, and July 17th, 2027. Prices for the itinerary lead in from €2,280 per person (around £1,986).

The price includes accommodation in double or twin cabins, half-board service with a buffet breakfast and one daily meal, and the use of fishing and snorkelling gear.

Variety Cruises is offering a special discount for Italy and Malta itineraries, with up to 20% off available on the above sailing when booked before June 30th, 2026. If booked between July 1st and October 1st, 2026, guests can still earn 10% off.

SUSTAINABLE Travel

EXPLORE’S ENVIRONMENTAL EXCELLENCE

Explore Worldwide has reached major milestones in regards to sustainable practices.

IN EXPLORE Worldwide’s latest annual Purpose Paper, the business has outlined how it has exceeded key environmental targets while continuing to deepen its positive impact on destinations, local communities, customers, and the environment.

In 2025, Explore Worldwide achieved a 15% reduction in carbon usage,

Finolhu catches the sun

FINOLHU SEASIDE Resort in Baa Atoll, Maldives, has successfully implemented a 1,185 kWp rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) system. The implementation reinforces the resort’s commitment to being an eco-conscious luxury estate. The solar system has been installed across several rooftops of the island resort, and the solar power will significantly reduce diesel usage.

Approximately 1.6 million kWh of clean energy will be produced annually, and the new system is expected to reduce over 1,100 tons of negative carbon emissions.

significantly surpassing its original 5% target. The company’s continued effort to reducing its negative impact on the environment has proven successful as it aims to advance its long-term climate goals.

Explore Worldwide has made substantial financial contributions to both climate and community initiatives. Notable contributions across 2025 include: £139,000 invested in regeneration projects across the Peruvian Amazon, the UK, and Australia; £145,000 contributed towards carbon removal initiatives via partners at Klimate; £106,000

distributed by the Explore Foundation to 11 global projects; and more than £80,000 donated to the Explore Foundation on behalf of travelling customers.

Michael Edwards, managing director at Explore Worldwide, said, “Surpassing our carbon intensity reduction target is a significant achievement, but it’s only one part of the story. What’s equally important is how we are embedding positive impact into every aspect of our trips. From the experiences we create for our customers to the investments we’re making in communities and climate solutions globally.”

Saving the planet, one step at a time

HOLLAND AMERICA Line’s new charity partner for its ‘On Deck for a Cause’ programme is Conservation International for all sailings outside of Alaska.

The programme is a non-competitive 5km fundraising walk on all cruises. Donations through the programme will support the charity to protect Caribbean coastal ecosystems in partnership with local communities.

More forest, more for us

ANURAK LODGE, a ecolodge on the edge of Khao Sok National Park in Thailand, has published its 2025 Impact Report.

The report outlines Anurak’s progress towards regenerative tourism with principles guided by conservation, community, culture and commerce.

Food is grown on-site, with the resort’s own compost and 82% of staff are hired locally.

In 2026, Anurak aims to improve soil moisture through drip irrigation and composting to expand forest restoration efforts.

Biodiversity in Valencia

VALENCIA IS a success story of nature reserves and restoration projects.

Albufera Natural Park is home to Tancat de la Pipa, a restored nature reserve that underwent intense ecological restoration, with 40 hectares of rice fields transforming into thriving freshwater wetlands. The wetland has reduced phosphorus by 43%, nitrogen by 52% and chlorophyll by up to 80%.

Royal restorations and ecological advancements

ALULA HAS made a monumental step in its sustainable development and tourism ambitions by producing over one million native seedlings that will be integrated across Saudi Arabia.

More than 140,000 native greens have been planted across projects outside of nature reserves, such as tourism developements, cultural sites and visitor infrastructure. The initiative includes the landscaping of heritage sites such as Hegra, Dadan and the AlUla Old Town.

AlUla’s five-star boutique luxury resorts are also playing their part by including environmentally-conscious designs to elevate guest experience.

A recent visit from Prince William saw his participation in the destination’s landscapescale restoration project by planting an acacia tree inside Sharaan National Park.

Philip Jones, chief tourism officer at the Royal Commission for AlUla, said, “Tourism

Development in AlUla is guided by a simple principle: what we build must be true to place. The integration of native flora and fauna across our hotels, heritage sites, and visitor experiences ensure that our destination authentically embraces its natural environment and cultural history.”

Sirru Fen Fushi shares sustainable secrets

SIRRU FEN Fushi, also known as the ‘secret water island’, is home to an expansive array of coral reefs and integrates sustainability into the heart of its tourism operations, with guests encouraged to take part in activities which connect them with the natural world.

The reef is home to a wide variety of native marine life and the Maldives’ first coral regeneration project, the Coralarium. Alongside the coral regeneration project, a semi-submerged art installation by Jason deCaires Taylor decorates the coast.

Guests can immerse themselves in a range of water-based activities, such as snorkelling and kayaking in the house reef, and can also embark on an once-in-alifetime dolphin safari.

There are a number of sustainable initiatives in place that are available for guests to take part in. These activities range from joining a marine biologist to track and assist endangered turtle hatchlings, to turning plastic waste into bespoke souvenirs at the Maldives’ first resort-based recycling facility, the Sustainability Lab.

On land, luxury villas can host a beachfront view or a jungle atmosphere. The overwater villas offer direct access to the lagoon, and the interiors of each villa echo the beauty of the beaches.

Rates to visit Sirru Fen Fushi in a Beach Sunrise Villa on a half-board basis start from approximately £925 per person.

Australia goes green with new initiative

TOURISM AUSTRALIA has launched a new initiative to strengthen the country’s natural environments, cultures and communities.

‘Green is Our Gold’ is a direct response to the growing demand for tourism experiences that deliver positive social and environmental impacts. Tourism and business organisations are being invited to be part of the Green and Gold Promise, where they share the industry vision for sustainable tourism across five distinct principles: Celebrate Community, Embrace Culture, Preserve Place, Respect Wildlife and Take Care.

Tourism Australia’s Managing Director Robin Mack said, “Australia has a strong track record of sustainable growth in tourism, and many businesses have already embraced sustainability—delivering worldclass experiences that are sensitive to our natural environments, our cultures and our

communities. ‘Green is Our Gold’ has been created by Tourism Australia with significant industry engagement to recognise the strong foundations already in place and encourage further momentum for a collective commitment to responsible travel.”

Tourism Australia’s Consumer Demand Project has shown that sustainability is increasingly important to travellers, both in their everyday lives (77%) and the way they choose to travel (70%).

Explore the oldest rainforest in the world

THE DAINTREE Rainforest, believed to date back 180 million years, offers travellers the opportunity to experience an immersive slice of the Mandingalbay Yidinji culture through eco tours ran by the pioneering Mundraby Sisters.

The Hands-On Country Eco Tour with

Mandingalbay Ancient Indigenous Tours brings the native plants and surroundings to life as the sisterhood teaches guests how to make wild bush soap while educating them on the life and history of the people who live on the lands. Prices for the half-day tour leads in from AUD$169 (around £88).

joins the GSTC

DUSIT HOTELS and Resorts has joined the Global Sustainable Tourism Council, marking a significant step in the company’s efforts to embed responsible practices through its global portfolio.

Central to Dusit’s sustainable strategy is the Tree of Life, a group-wide programme that integrates sustainability across hotel operations, employee and guest well-being, and community initiatives. The Group has also signed the WTTC Declaration on Illegal Trade in Wildlife.

A lesson in Swiss sustainability

SWITZERLAND’S LAAX

Mountains is working towards the ambitious goal of being carbon-neutral by 2030. Some of the implemented changes include the new gondola that uses 50% less energy than the previous chair lift, and the Riders Hotel which is trialing a cuttingedge green roof with vertical solar panels which produce 25,000kWh of solar energy per year.

theme parks & attractions SWAMP SPECTACLES IN THE SUNSHINE STATE

COULD A more quintessentially-Florida attraction be ticketed than a journey aboard a camouflaged school bus in pursuit of gators and bald eagles? At Babcock Eco Ranch in Punta Gorda, Florida, that ultimate Americana is elevated, with conservation efforts and a unique perspective on the history of the Sunshine State.

JOURNEY TO the heart of Ancient Egypt as Parc Astérix opens its doors for the season.

The Egypt zone has been reinvented, now offering guests a total immersion experience with Cleopatra and the Egyptian Gods. With revamped rides, spectacular decorations and new experiences for all, guests of all ages are encouraged to dive into the ancient world where legends and history come to life. Some of the new features include the rebrand of the Oxygénarium, now known as The Descent of the Nile, and The Flying Chairs transforming into The Flight of Ibis.

The ranch's signature tour invites visitors aboard a camouflaged 'swamp buggy' where expert guides lead guests through four different ecosystems emblematic of much of Florida's biodiversity—freshwater marshes, prairies, pine flatwoods, and cypress swamps—in under two hours.

It's Florida, so, naturally, as the buggy traverses marshes and swamps, it will be hard to miss the dozens of alligators who call Babcock home, with turtles, hogs, cattle and ospreys commonplace. Much more elusive are the Florida panthers and black bears roaming the ranch as part

of ongoing conservation efforts. If the sheer sight of alligators wasn't quite enough, after the 90-minute tour experience wraps up, the on-site Gator Shack restaurant awaits with a literal taste of the reptilian creatures: deep-fried 'gator bites' are on the menu.

The flagship 90-minute Swamp Buggy Eco Tours start from around £18 for adults, with kids (aged three and up) from around £12.

Other tours include a free trail walk and speciality 90-minute nighttime and 2.5-hour photography options (from £18 and £35, respectively).

UNIVERSAL ORLAND Resort’s longstanding legacy event Halloween Horror Nights will return for its 35th year from August 28th to November 1st, 2026. The event will feature 10 brand-new haunted houses, terrifying scare zones and a few spooky surprises.

Prices lead in from $87.99 (around £65.65) per person for a single night ticket.

Drop the kids into Efteling this summer

IN THE fairytale land of Efteling, the youngest thrill-seekers will have the chance to test their nerve with its latest ride: Hooghmoed.

The ride, which opens on May 1st, 2026, features a drop tower that will open directly next to Baron 1898, and share the same aesthetic.

Children above 90cm tall will drop from a maximum height of six metres, accompanied by sound effects, mist, and smoke to create an immersive experience.

Catch some waves at Virginia Beach

SURFS UP at Virginia Beach with a major upgrade at Atlantic Park Surf with North America’s first Wavegarden Cove Surf Lagoon.

The lagoon can generate over 20 types of waves, ranging from one foot to seven feet in height. Each 55-minute session has been designed so that each surfer catches 12 waves on average.

Sessions are priced from £67 to £119, with seasonal variation.

The art and culture of Philadelphia

THE CITY of Philadelphia’s cultural institutions have launched a lineup of exciting exhibitions throughout 2026 that will engage the hearts of art lovers, history buffs, and culture afficionados alike.

‘A Nation of Artists’ is a landmark collaboration between the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary. It will feature over 1,000 works that will be available for public viewing until September 5th, 2027.

2026 marks the 50th year of the first Rocky movie, and will be celebrated by a thought-provoking exhibition at the Philadelphia Museum of Art that explores how monuments shape culture. The exhibition will run from April 25th, 2026, to August 2nd, 2026.

Freedom Dreams will launch at the Barnes Foundation. The exhibition will feature a powerful display of works in film

and video, installed by an intergenerational cohort of Black artists exploring history, archives, and culture. This exhibition will run until August 9th, 2026.

These major and unique exhibitions reinforce Philadelphia’s reputation as a major art and cultural destination.

All-inclusive on Las Vegas Strip

MGM Resorts has launched the first allinclusive experience on the Las Vegas Strip. Hotel accommodations, daily resort fees, dining entertainment and parking will be bundled together into a single upfront price from $330 for a two-night stay for two guests at Luxor Hotel & Casino and Excalibur Hotel & Casino.

The all-inclusive bundle is now bookable and offers a new way to visit Las Vegas while still experiencing the variety of entertainment guests have come to expect

from the destination. The new package is now available to book.

The experience expected from the allinclusive bundle includes a luxurious two-night stay at either of the aforementioned hotels which includes all resort fees; three meals per day per guest redeemable at a selection of MGM Resort restaurants; two tickets to one MGM Resorts’ show per stay, with six options to choose from; two rides on The Big Apple Coaster at New York-New York; and selfparking for one vehicle at any MGM Las Vegas property.

Mike Nuebecker, President and COO of MGM Grand, Mandalay Bay, New York-New York, Luxor and Excalibur, said, “Las Vegas has long been known for its diverse collection of unforgettable experiences, this new option combines many of them together in a fresh, compelling way.”

From K-Pop to Animal Crossing: Gardaland

has it all

GARDALAND RESORT has reopened for a season packed with immersive experiences for all ages, from K-pop events to live shows and video game tributes.

Animal Crossing: New Horizons, developed and published by Nintendo, appeared at Gardaland SEA LIFE Aquarium for the first time and combined science with entertainment to educate and entertain the whole family.

In May, Gardaland will celebrate the strawberry season with its ‘Strawberry Bites’ event. Guests can explore a new strawberry-themed dimension to the park with plenty of special treats.

June will host one of the most sparking highlights of summer at Gardaland, with a truly unique experience: a K-pop weekend. The weekend of June 13th and 14th will be filled with blasting beats a rhythmic dances of authentic Korean bands live in concert.

The 2026 season will also debut a film created by Gardaland: ‘Prezzemolo and the Enigma Revealed’. The film will show at the 4D Cinema, and will provide guests with a total adventure with vibrating chairs, water splashes, wind, and smells all from the comfort of their seat.

The film is an identity-driven narrative which tells the story of the park, and aims to deepen its bond with visitors and further their enjoyment of the park.

The illusions of London

THE MUSEUM of Illusions will come to life in London with its grand opening in May. The museum will add diversity to the tourism landscape of the city by bringing a fresh, family-friendly experience for all ages.

The attraction offers an interactive, unique adventure designed to drive footfall

and dwell time in Central London regardless of the inconsistent weather the city is known for.

Guests can indulge in the Reversed room, which has been tailored to the city itself.

Tickets for the Instagram-ready exhibition will be available from April 27th, 2026.

Dine & Drink offer returns to Disney

WALT DISNEY World Resort in Florida is bringing back the Disney Dining and Drinks offer for select 2027 holidays.

Guests that book to stay at the Disney World Resort with a Park Ticket package can enjoy free Disney Dining and Drinks on select meals if booked between April 21st and November 4th, 2026.

The offer is available for a stay with a minimum of five nights for select arrival dates between January 3rd and December 19th, 2027.

CityPASS expands cultural lineup

THE ART Gallery of Ontario has been added to the Toronto CityPASS programme, which expands visitor access to one of Canada’s most prominent cultural institutions.

The AGO is one of North America’s largest art museums and is home to the world’s largest public collect of Henry Moore Sculptures.

The museum is open late on select days of the week.

Travel into the unknown at Disneyland Paris

LAST MONTH, the World of Frozen at Disneyland Paris opened the doors to the magical Kingdom of Arendelle, welcoming in families and guests of all ages to explore the land of their favourite characters.

The new area features the 118-foot North Mountain, with Elsa’s Ice Palace overseeing the village from the top. During their visit, guests can take part in the one-of-a-kind celebration of the Snowflower Festival, which brings the village of Arendelle to life.

The family attraction Frozen Ever After will take guests on a musical boat ride through memorable moments from the Frozen franchise, complete with Norwegian-inspired landscapes and the accompanying soundtracks of ‘Do You Want to Build

a Snowman?’ and ‘Let It Go’ which promise to stay in guests’ heads for the remainder of the day.

Families also have the opportunity to spend some time with Elsa and Anna at the Arendelle Castle during a royal encounter, and a special daytime event at Arendelle Bay will see the entire cast of characters appear on majestic boats.

To infinity, and Florida!

AS THE interest in space exploration continues to rise thanks to the historic Artemis II mission, there is no better time to head over to LEGOLAND Florida Resort and immerse in all things extraterrestrial at LEGO Galaxy. The new experience, which launched earlier this year, is anchored by the Resort’s first indoor, space-themed family coaster: Galacticoaster. Riders are placed in command of their own uniquely-designed spacecraft before blasting off at speeds of up to 40mph, travelling through different galaxies full of different LEGO eras.

Would you like to go to space?

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

Maybe for a long weekend? I’d love to try on the suit too.

Simon Eddolls

Sales Director simon.eddolls@travelbulletin.co.uk

I would love to go to space but not sharing the same aircraft with certain others...

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

Not sure.

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

Send Trump and we stay here!

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

I’d like to be in zero gravity but that’s as far as I’ll go!

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

No thanks.

Holly Brown Events Coordinator holly.brown@travelbulletin.co.uk Hell no.

Angel Gallagher-Dasso

Digital Editor angel.gd@travelbulletin.co.uk

Yes and I’ll make friends with the aliens.

William Mann Events Coordinator william.mann@travelbulletin.co.uk

To escape Trump, sure!

EVENTS events@travelbulletin.co.uk

PRODUCTION production@travelbulletin.co.uk

CIRCULATION

circulation@travelbulletin.co.uk