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TRAVEL SELLING

Inspiring those who sell travel

Great expectations From Algeria to Guyana to Kyrgyzstan, discover the destinations ready to join travel's mainstream

Travel For Every Body Awards finalists • Luxury rail • Asia multicentre • New York State • India for first-timers • Festive holidays • Expanded agent section SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER : 2026 SELLINGTRAVEL.CO.UK

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Contents / September/October 2026

Inside this issue 10

WELCOME Charlotte Flach, Editor

As I reflect on the terrible disasters in Nepal and Tibet, I’m sure I speak for the entire industry when I say that we are all thinking of those affected, particularly the families of those dead or missing and the many people on the ground whose lives have been devastated. These much-loved destinations will need our support once they are ready to welcome visitors again. Travel advisors may find our feature on Asian multi-centre holidays helpful when the time comes to sell Nepal and Tibet again. Turn to page 10. We also suggest fastemerging destinations which agents should be considering in 2027 and beyond. Meanwhile, our expanded agent section on pages 21-25 includes industry perspectives on AI, an interview with an advisor on how to secure “lifetime clients” and a firsthand account of a fabulous fam trip to Northern India. For luxury clients, check out what’s new in high-end rail travel on page 35. And finally, the wait is over – flip to page 12 to see who made our Travel For Every Body Awards finalists this year.

32 35

Feature: Emerging destinations

Introducing: Asia multicentre

Travel For Every Body Awards: 2026 finalists

Feature: Global hotel hotlist

Agent on location: Northern India

23 Opinion: Is AI a threat?

Cover image: Djanet, Algeria. Image: unsplash.com/@mounir_abdi Editor: Charlotte Flach • Contributing Writers: Laura Millar, April Waterston, Xenia Taliotis, Rashmi Narayan, Ulrike Lemmin-Woolfrey, Stuart Forster • Editorial Director: Steve Hartridge • Group Editor: Bev Fearis • Digital Editor: April Waterston • Publishers: Steve Thompson steven.thompson@sellingtravel.co.uk • Sally Parker sally.parker@sellingtravel.co.uk • Partnerships Manager: David Wilcox david.wilcox@sellingtravel.co.uk • Circulation Manager: Shani Kunar • Managing Director: Matt Bonner • CEO: Martin Steady • Designers: Caitlan Francis, Colette Denham and Liz Paterson • Operations Director: Clare Hunter • Production Administrator: Steve Hunter (Print) ISSN 2056-9319 ©BMI PUBLISHING LTD 2026. 501 The Residence, No. 1 Alexandra Terrace, Guildford, GU1 3DA, uk. T: 020 8649 7233 enquiries@bmipublishing.co.uk While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, BMI Publishing Ltd cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions.

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Agent interview: How to secure lifetime clients

Focus on: Festive holidays – winter sun vs traditional breaks

How to sell: India to first-timers

Feature: Luxury rail travel

Focus on: The Greek Islands

My journey: New York State

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Feature

T H E

N E X T

big thing One thing’s for sure: our appetite for travel has never been greater and there’s an increasing desire to seek new experiences beyond established hotspots, says Laura Millar

t’s 21.00 on a balmy June evening and I’m amid a huge throng of people milling around Republic Square in Yerevan, capital of Armenia. . A series of illuminated fountains gush to the soundtrack of classical music (and, at one point, the theme tune to Star Wars), while families, couples and groups of friends enjoy the carnival-like atmosphere. But this isn’t even a special event or celebration; the Dancing Fountain show takes place every evening during summer. Over the next few days, I find even more to marvel at in this cultured, cosmopolitan city – from the extraordinary Cascade Complex, a giant, tiered structure in the centre, to historic sights such as the Parthenon-like Garni Temple a few miles outside it. Armenia is somewhere I’d always been aware of, especially since visiting its neighbour Georgia

the year before, but the recent launch of a new direct flight from Luton by Wizz Air meant I could easily head there to explore. In fact, there is solid evidence to demonstrate that a different range of countries, not to mention little-known regions in more mainstream destinations, should now be firmly on agents’ radar. There are several factors pushing this trend. First; there is improved accessibility; earlier this year, Ryanair established a direct route from Birmingham to Albania’s capital, Tirana. The relaxation of visa rules can also have an influence; in February, China granted Brits access to its mainland for stays of up to 30 days. Value for money is another factor, particularly in destinations that don’t use the dollar or euro: think Balkan countries such as Serbia or Bulgaria, or Asian nations like Laos. And perhaps, most crucially, there’s a huge appetite for avoiding overtourism. “Travellers are looking beyond the obvious in 2026,” affirms Clare Tobin,

CEO of Wild Frontiers, “and swapping classic routes for harder-to-reach, culture-rich destinations.’” Search demand is backing this shift, with Google searches for ‘authentic travel experiences’ up by 70% and ‘unique places to travel’ up by 30%.

African Allure You won’t – yet – find many Britons who have been to the North African country of Algeria, but it’s one of the more surprising places attracting growing interest. Wild Frontiers has seen an 85.4 per cent increase in bookings year on year, and an 86.2 per cent rise in enquiries for this sizeable Maghreb nation, which sits between Morocco and Tunisia and is Africa’s biggest country by land area. “Its appeal lies in its rarity,” explains Tobin. “While much of North Africa is already well-established with travellers, Algeria still feels comparatively unexplored. You’ll find Roman ruins, Ottoman heritage, Mediterranean cities, mountain scenery and vast

Pictured: (above) The dramatic Saharan landscapes of Algeria (Mounir Abdi)

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Emerging destinations

Pictured: (left to right from top) A lively pedestrian street in downtown Yerevan, Armenia (Levon Vardanyan); The Monastery of Saint Ivan of Rila, nestled in the Rila Mountains of Bulgaria (Thomas Isbister); A traditional Kazakh eagle hunter holding a golden eagle in Mongolia; The Church of the Holy Mother of God, located in the Old Town of Plovdiv, Bulgaria (Deniz Fuchidzhiev); Registan Square in Samarkand, Uzbekistan (Ozodbek Irkinov); Yerevan, the capital of Armenia, with Mount Ararat in the background (Levon Vardanyan)

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Feature

Saharan landscapes – all without the crowds.” This sentiment is echoed by James Willcox, Founder of Untamed Borders. “Of all the destinations we work in, Algeria is the one increasing in popularity. It was historically a tricky place to visit due to being somewhat isolationist, but it has recently made a concerted tourism effort,” he explains. “An e-visa is imminent, and the nation is working hard to attract tourism investment; it aims to increase its tourism numbers fivefold by 2030.” To further tempt clients, it’s just a short hop on a flight from Europe and has a year-round warm climate.

LATIN ROOTS

biodiversity – over 85 per cent of the country is covered by intact rainforest – pristine ecosystems and genuine cultural connections.’” Among its most breathtaking sights is Kaieteur, one of the world’s tallest single-drop waterfalls. Wildlife is another major draw: travellers can encounter jaguars, giant anteaters and harpy eagles in their natural habitat, and the country is home to over 900 bird species. Investment in infrastructure and tourism development has helped to boost visitor arrivals, while expanded international air connectivity from carriers such as KLM Royal Dutch Airlines and Canadian carrier Air Transat has further strengthened

Another intriguing destination attracting attention from travellers keen to get off the beaten path is Guyana, made more accessible by being South America’s only Englishspeaking nation. “Guyana is one of the world’s fastestemerging tourism destinations because it offers something increasingly rare in global travel: authenticity,” explains Susan Rodrigues, Guyana’s Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce. “It has remained largely undiscovered, allowing visitors to experience its rich

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the country’s position as a viable emerging destination. “We are intentionally building a tourism industry that is sustainable, inclusive and community-driven,’” emphasises Rodrigues. “That is what makes us an emerging destination, not simply because we are growing, but

“Different destinations and little-known regions in popular countries should be firmly on agents’ radars” because we are growing with purpose. I would encourage travel agents to position Guyana as South America’s best-kept secret; a destination for those who want to experience something genuinely different. For travellers who have ‘seen it all,’ Guyana offers the excitement of discovery.” Conversely, sometimes travellers want to stick with a tried-and-tested country. Explore Worldwide is offering 20% off several Peru itineraries for all 2027 departures. Travellers looking for a lesser-known foray into the destination can join its Inca Trail Trek .

Stan and deliver Call it the “Race Across the World effect”, but programmes such as

Pictured: (clockwise from top) Rewa Eco Lodge, Guyana (Zachary Johnston); Kaieteur Falls, one of the tallest single-drop waterfalls; A traveller in the Tassili n’Ajjer region of the Algerian Sahara (Mounir Abdi); A lavendar field in Bulgaria (Nikolay Hristov)

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Small groups

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adventures

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Discover authentic, small group adventures with Explore. Our carefully curated tours explore the sights and culture of a country, with hand-picked accommodation that balances comfort and location. With an average group size of 11, our tours are perfect for meeting new people and getting to the heart of a destination, while our expert Tour Leaders bring a unique richness and spontaneity to every trip. Choose from a range of tour styles across more than 100 countries worldwide – including wildlife encounters, food and drink tours, walking and cycling trips, and Explore Upgraded for premium-level comfort.

Small group adventures

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explore.co.uk Trade@explore.co.uk or 01252 240 707

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Feature

SELLING TIPS FROM ASHLEY QUINT Travel Time World Ashley Quint, Director and Chief Travel Maestro and Responsible Travel Champion, at Travel Time World, offers his tips for selling emerging destinations: “Don’t assume that a client won’t be adventurous. Set out the reasons why they would enjoy the destination, and the benefits over somewhere more familiar or mainstream. “Try including elements that feel more familiar, such as a stopover in Cape Town or the Middle East, so it doesn’t feel so daunting. Consider incorporating elements such as a river or expedition cruise. “Families are a lot more adventurous than they used to be, and it’s OK to go slightly off the beaten track, especially when adding more of a cultural or educational element. “Sell more unusual destinations as being ‘exclusive’.”

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this have opened people’s eyes to the appeal of Central Asia, which showcased the region in series six. According to WeRoad, Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan are emerging as two of the most exciting– and fastestgrowing – destinations for travellers looking to venture beyond traditional European hotspots, with bookings up 380 per cent and 350 per cent year-onyear respectively. “Uzbekistan combines the extraordinary history of the Silk Road with spectacular architecture and UNESCO World Heritage sites,” explains Stefano Arossa, WeRoad’s Europe Director, “while with Kyrgyzstan you have dramatic mountain landscapes, nomadic culture and outdoor adventure. “Together, they offer an alternative to more established destinations. And because we offer travel as part of a group, that gives people the confidence to visit places they may previously have considered too challenging to explore independently.” Jim Louth, Director of Undiscovered Destinations, echoes the Race Across the World effect. Series six ended in Mongolia, another emerging destination, where the company also runs group trips. But, Louth adds that

social media is also a key trigger for travellers’ choices. “People are looking for more authentic experiences and lesserknown destinations to visit now, before they get too populated,” he states, and recommends that, when possible, travel agents learn about a destination, speak to specialists and local tour operators, and get first-hand experience before selling to clients.

Book IT: Explore Worldwide’s Inca Trail Trek is priced from £1,012pp, for a March 26, 2027 departure. explore.co.uk/ holidays/inca-trail-trek

LAURA MILLAR Laura predicts Algeria will be a big destination for 2027, as its less crowded than Morrocco and is a good viewing spot for next year’s eclipse.

Pictured: (clockwise from top) Even welltrodden destinations such as Peru offer opportunities to sell lesser-known locations or itineraries which offer a “different perspective” on a country; The interior of the Aryapala Temple Meditation Center in Gorkhi-Terelj National Park, Mongolia (Alexander Popovkin)

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Introducing

MULTICENTRE ASIA With beaches aplenty and dynamic cities, contrasting pairings across Asia are ideal for the multi-centre treatment, says April Waterston

s the shore laps at my sandhugging toes, I take in a deep breath of fresh sea air. You could fool me into believing I’d woken up in The Maldives, but no, I am in my new favourite place: Koh Rong Samloem, a jewel of an island off the south coast of Cambodia. Mornings here are spent snorkelling amid tropical corals, dodging alienlike sea urchins while floating among parrotfish and clownfish. Afternoons pass by sprawled on the white-sand beaches, or taking water taxis to uncover new corners of the island. Evenings are for slow meals by torchlight, before heading back to the now-black water for a dance with bioluminescent plankton. Time moves slowly, with each passing moment more relaxing than the last. It marks a far cry from my previous stop, the sensory overload of a city that is Phnom Penh. After experiencing its bustling night markets, and museums like Tuol Sleng and the Choeung Ek Killing Fields – which highlight the harrowing story of the country’s genocide – and nightlife that pulses long after dark, I find myself grateful for some time to decompress.

The appeal of contrast It’s exactly this Yin and Yang –

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intensity followed by relaxation – that increasingly defines how UK travellers want to experience Asia. Specialist operators are reporting a surge in multi-centre itineraries that stitch two very different experiences into a single trip. Airi Motokura, Director of the Japan National Tourism Organisation, sees this shift clearly in demand from the UK market. “UK travellers are increasingly looking for a ‘two holidays in one’ appeal, and paired itineraries allow agents to showcase a completely different side of Japan in a single trip,” she says. “Combining traditional culture with outdoor adventure offers the ultimate balance of contrast.” Motokura points to two itineraries that capture this well: Wendy Wu Tours’ Gems of Japan and Shikoku, pairing Dogo Onsen, one of Japan’s oldest hot springs, with historic Matsuyama Castle and the lively Awa Odori dance festival; and Explore’s Cycle Japan, contrasting Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO-

“Intensity followed by relaxation increasingly defines how UK travellers want to experience Asia”

Pictured: (clockwise top) Pura Ulun Danu Bratan, a Hindu water temple located on the shores of Lake Bratan in the Bedugul highlands of Bali, Indonesia (Guillaume Marques); The Daigo-ji temple in Kyoto, Japan; A group of performers taking part in a traditional Awa Odori street dance festival (Ayumi Kubo); Ritsurin Garden in Takamatsu, Kagawa Prefecture, Japan (h-c-w)

listed mountain village, with coastal cycling past Sado Island. “Both destinations offer a compelling alternative to the classic Tokyo and Kyoto itinerary,” she notes, “providing UK travellers with the opportunity to discover a different, and often lesserknown, side of Japan.” That search for a different pace extends south, too. Koji Nakada, International Tourism Promotion Officer at OCVB (Okinawa Convention and Visitors Bureau), makes the case for Okinawa as the ultimate slowtravel pairing. “Okinawa is a place to slow down and experience a different rhythm of life in Japan,” he says. “Subtropical landscapes, island cuisine, a connection to nature and its reputation as one of the world’s Blue Zones set it apart from Japan’s major cities.” The reopening of the reconstructed Seiden in November 2026, he says, “adds another reason to visit”. The hall was destroyed by fire in 2019, while the wider castle park has

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Multi-centre Asia

remained open during reconstruction. Together with its distinctive Ryukyuan culture and easy connections across Asia, Okinawa brings something different to a multi-centre itinerary. And big hub airports are making connections between the UK and Asia, plus between destinations across the continent, even easier. “From London, EVA Air flies direct to Bangkok and Taipei, where our customers have access to a vast network of other destinations in Asia from our centrally located hub at

Taoyuan International Airport,” says David Chang, General Manager, EVA Air UK Office. “Also, being a Star Alliance member, EVA Air gives passengers access to a vast network of over 1,150 destinations in more than 190 countries,” he adds.

Asia on the up Gary King, Head of Trade Sales at Wendy Wu Tours, says the data confirms what agents are hearing from clients. “Customers increasingly want more from a long-haul holiday, and we’re seeing a real appetite for trips that deliver two completely different experiences in one journey,” he explains. “They don’t want to have to choose between exploring somewhere properly and having time to switch off at the end – they want both.” Tour and beach combinations, King says, are the easiest of all to sell because the contrast does the work for you. “One week you’re watching the sun rise over Mount Bromo or searching for SELLINGTRAVEL.CO.UK

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“Tour and beach combinations are the easiest of all to sell” tigers in Ranthambore, and just a few days later you’re barefoot on a beach in Bali or Goa.” The figures back it up: Wendy Wu’s Bali Beach Stay add-on is up 170% year-to-date, while its Goa Beach Stay has rocketed an extraordinary 1,000% year-on-year. “Including a beach stay isn’t simply an add-on anymore,” he says. “For a growing number of customers, it’s becoming part of how they want to experience Asia.”

Book it Wendy Wu’s 20-day Wonders of Indonesia and Bali Beach package offers two holidays in one: adventure, wildlife and culture across Indonesia, followed by four nights of beachfront relaxation in Bali. Priced from £5,690pp. wendywutours.co.uk

Pictured: (From left) Buddhist monk outside the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh, Cambodia (Norbert Braun); A scenic tropical beach in Koh Rong Samloem, Cambodia; Asian destinations are known for their ådelicious – and cheap– street food

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Travel For Every Body Awards 2026 Recognising the people who are making travel and tourism more accessible and inclusive Selling Travel is proud to announce this year’s ﬁnalists for the Travel For Every Body Awards. We’ve been championing accessible travel since 2023 and now, for a second year running, we are also spreading the message through our awards that the travel industry can – and does – make a real difference. Once again we invited industry partners to tell us about what they are currently doing, and what they plan to do in the future, to push accessible travel to the top of their agendas. “This year we had an even greater number of entries than

Together we can make a difference

last year and the standard was, once again, so high,” said Charlotte Flach, Editor of Selling Travel. “Our judges bring both their industry knowledge and lived experiences to a tough selection process. Anyone who made this year’s list should be very proud of the work they are doing!” We are joined by a number of last year’s judges, plus a few new faces, who bring both their in-depth industry knowledge and lived experiences to the judging process. To ﬁnd out more about this year’s judges, sponsors and categories, visit travelforeverybody.com

SPONSORS

Headline

Gold

Silver

sellingtravel.co.uk

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THE 2026 FINALISTS Accommodation

Marketing Campaign

•

Amilla Maldives

•

Safer Tourism Foundation

Center Parcs Nordborg Resort

•

Spanish Tourist Ofﬁce (and LOTUS)

Maison des Landes

•

TUI

•

Marsham Court Hotel

•

VisitEngland

•

Sandton Hotel

• •

Airline •

Air Canada

•

Virgin Atlantic

Airport •

Cardiff Airport

•

Liverpool John Lennon Airport

•

Manchester Airport

•

Orlando International Airport

•

Victoria International Airport

Cruise •

Royal Caribbean

•

Virgin Voyages

Destination

Outstanding Achievement - Tour Operator •

AccessibleOz

•

Altogether Travel

•

Audley Travel

•

Enable Holidays

•

Go Beyond Holidays

•

Latin America For All

•

TUI

•

Vumbua Africa

Outstanding Achievement - Travel Agency/Agent •

Clive Wratten, Business Travel Association

•

Deanne Moses-Wright, Wheelie on the Waves with Premier Travel

•

Jasmine West, World Accessible Holidays

•

Kimberley Swales, The Accessible Traveler

•

Louise Newton, Iglu Ski

•

Sheila Stamp, Travel Counsellors

•

Experience Grand Rapids

•

New York State

Outstanding Contribution

•

Spanish Tourist Ofﬁce

•

Harry Wales, Travelosophers

Tenerife

•

Julie Jones, Travel Without Limits

Tourism Authority of Thailand

•

María Hernández, TUR4all Travel Agency

•

Travel Oregon

•

Phoenyx Powell, Phoenyx Travels

•

Visit Austin

•

Yousif Nur, Journeyease

•

Visit County Durham

•

Visit Düsseldorf

•

VisitEngland

• •

Digital Innovation •

Experience Grand Rapids

•

Eyes Japan

•

FlightPath3D

•

tabifolk

•

Turkish Technology

Ground Transport •

Avanti West Coast

•

Eurostar

•

Open Road Access

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Training Programme •

Business Travel Association

•

InteleTravel

•

Virgin Atlantic

Travel Accessibility Champion •

Allie Mason, Steppes Travel

•

Carrie-Ann Lightley

•

Harriet Denton, Hays Travel

•

Harry Wales, Travelosophers

•

Julie Jones, Travel Without Limits

•

Lucie Dumbleton, Travel By Lucie

•

Marina Snellenberg, TUI

•

Phoenyx Powell, Phoenyx Travels

•

Steve Longman, Motability Foundation

02/09/2026 16:00

Feature

HOT OFF THE PRESS From adventure-led escapes and serious wellness to ultra-luxury and wildlife, these hot properties give agents fresh reasons to sell worldwide, says Rashmi Narayan

eorge Bernard Shaw once declared that “the great advantage of a hotel is that it is a refuge from home life.” The new generation of hotels is exactly that: less about simply providing somewhere to sleep and more about matching accommodation more closely to clients’ interests, such as active escapes, wellness breaks, culturally immersive trips and hassle-free holidays.

while also catering to summer travellers exploring Grand Teton and Yellowstone. In California, Kimpton Mirador Pacific Grove opened in March 2026 as Pacific Grove’s first branded hotel. Its coastal location, complimentary bikes and proximity to Monarch Grove Sanctuary, Lovers Point and Point Pinos Lighthouse, combine the outdoors with Monterey’s attractions, including Cannery Row, the

stay for the experience

ultra-luxury, with purpose

For clients who want to build their holiday around outdoor adventure, the latest North American openings put nature firmly at the centre. Faraway Jackson Hole, Wyoming, opened this summer following the transformation of the former Snake River Lodge. Set at the base of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, the 90-room hotel and 48 residences provide direct ski access

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Monterey Bay Aquarium, whale watching and kayaking. In southwestern Colorado, 84 Ranch, near the mountain town of Pagosa Springs, has a different take on accommodation, teaming guest cabins with regenerative farming and agritourism. Guests can join sustainable farming workshops, meet farm animals and enjoy pasture-raised food, surrounded by the Rocky Mountains.

Luxury in the Middle East and Indian Ocean is increasingly being defined by privacy, personalisation and wellbeing. Miraval The Red Sea opened on Saudi Arabia’s Shura Island in May this year as the wellness brand’s first property outside the U.S. The adultsonly, all-inclusive retreat is centred on mindfulness, movement, nutrition and SELLINGTRAVEL.CO.UK

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Global hotel hot list

personal wellbeing, rather than just a traditional beach resort. On the other coast of the Red Sea, Casa Cook El Gouna in Egypt has undergone a major transformation, adding 29 swimup suites with direct access to a semiprivate pool, alongside renovations to its pools, spa, gym, DUOTONE kite centre and dining venues. The five-star property is a popular choice with British visitors and was also featured on an episode of UK reality show The Apprentice. In the Seychelles, Cheval Blanc Seychelles brings LVMH’s ultra-luxury positioning to a 52-villa property surrounded by tropical nature. Its design incorporates local influences and the villas are centred around indoor-outdoor living and uninterrupted Indian Ocean views. It’s an easy sell for honeymooners, milestone trips and high-spending clients looking for privacy.

healing and modern therapies. The property is aimed squarely at travellers who want to make wellbeing the focus of their trip, rather than merely adding a spa treatment to a conventional holiday. For a more accessible option, The Standard, Pattaya Na Jomtien opened in Thailand in October 2025, bringing 161 rooms and suites, a beachfront setting and an adults-only spa to the quieter side of Pattaya. Its mix of design, dining, beach access and wellness makes it an alternative for those who want more personality than a standard resort, while remaining within easy reach of Bangkok. In Laos, Avani+ Lanexang Vientiane has opened in the capital overlooking Chao Anouvong Park and the Mekong River. This 197-key hotel offers rooms

affordable stays Asia continues to offer plenty of choice for clients seeking value, while wellness is becoming increasingly sophisticated. Tulah Clinical Wellness Sanctuary opened in Kerala, India, in February 2026, combining nature with a personalised programme drawing on traditional SELLINGTRAVEL.CO.UK

STM Global Hotel LIst 2026_v10.indd 15

“Match accommodation more closely to clients’ interests, such as active escapes and wellness breaks” and suites, dining and wellness facilities alongside local experiences and concierge services. It also supports local producers and artisans through locally sourced ingredients, seasonal menus and efforts to reduce single-use plastics.

local stories, local flavour Hotels across Australia and New Zealand are increasingly using design, food and culture to create stays that feel rooted in their surroundings. Garde Hotel opened in Fremantle, Western Australia, in September 2025,

Pictured: (clockwise from top) The Spanish Courtyard pool area at Cap Maison Resort and Spa in St. Lucia; A Deluxe Junior Swim-Up Suite at Casa Cook El Gouna; The Social Bar at Avani+ Lanexang Vientiane; Mussels at Avani Queenstown; One of HADCO Experiences’ new eco-lodges in the Caribbean; The bar area of The Caledonian at the Kimpton Mirador in Pacific Grove, California; Lakeside apartment lounge at the Avani Queenstown

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Feature

transforming the former Fremantle Police HQ into an 83-room hotel. Local art and crafts feature throughout the property, including works by Indigenous Noongar artists, while the design draws on Fremantle’s port heritage. In Queensland, Mondrian Gold Coast opened in 2025 on Burleigh Beach, bringing a design-led stay to one of the Gold Coast’s popular coastal areas. Its beachfront setting, restaurants, pool and wellness facilities make it a good base for clients combining beach time with the Gold Coast’s food and surfing scene. Opening in September 2026, Avani Queenstown will mark Avani’s debut in New Zealand. Formerly Oaks Shores Resort, the lakefront property has been transformed from serviced apartments

16 STM Global Hotel LIst 2026_v10.indd 16

into a full-service hotel, with AvaniSpa, AvaniFit and all-day dining at Six to Midnight, which will use local and seasonal produce.

“The all-inclusive model is becoming more varied, with properties combining food, wellness, nature and experiences”

all-inclusive, upgraded The all-inclusive model is becoming more varied, with new properties springing up across the Caribbean and Latin America that combine food, wellness, nature and experiences, offered at a single price tag. W Punta Cana, Adult All-Inclusive opened in the Dominican Republic in June 2025 as W Hotels’ first all-inclusive property. With more than 340 rooms and suites, multiple restaurants, a spa and a focus on music, design and social spaces, it offers a more contemporary take on the Caribbean resort. Open from September 2026, JW Marriott Costa Elena Resort & Spa in Costa Rica is the brand’s first all-inclusive resort in the country. The beachfront property has 11 dining concepts, pools, a spa and activities for couples and families, with Guanacaste’s wildlife and outdoor attractions nearby. Montemar Eco Villas in the Galápagos, offers two exclusive-use eco villas within a tortoise rewilding zone on

Santa Cruz Island. The B Corp property is all-inclusive, with meals made from seasonal, regional ingredients, and focuses on wildlife, privacy and tailormade experiences. In Saint Lucia, Cap Maison recently completed a US$2.5 million refurbishment covering its rooms and suites, reception, lobby, Club Room and spa, as well as its Cliff at Cap and Naked Fisherman restaurants. The intimate resort also offers private ocean dining and access to a secluded beach. In Trinidad, HADCO Experiences has brought two renovated eco-lodges to the UK market over the past year. The all-inclusive two-centre option combines the Asa Wright Nature Centre in the rainforest with Mt Plaisir Estate Hotel on Grande Riviere Beach, a major nesting site for leatherback turtles. The experience includes rainforest wildlife, hiking, turtle encounters and birdwatching with a strong focus on conservation and local communities.

Pictured: (clockwise from top) Al fresco dining at the Avani+ Lanexang Vientiane; The Asa Wright Nature Centre in the Northern Range of Trinidad

SELLINGTRAVEL.CO.UK

01/09/2026 14:47

How to sell

CENTRAL FLORIDA Beyond the theme parks lies a Florida of lakes, architecture and authenticity — and less than an hour from Orlando or Tampa airport, says Graham McKenzie WHY SELL IT Most UK clients think they know Florida: theme parks, coastline, repeat. Lakeland, in the heart of Central Florida, offers something different — a genuine community with a real food scene, natural beauty and world-class architectural credentials, all within easy reach of the two main gateway airports. LEGOLAND®, Peppa Pig Theme Park and the SEA LIFE aquarium are all close by, so families needn’t choose between the “real” Florida and rides — a Lakeland add-on gives depth to a trip that would otherwise be theme parks alone.

HOW TO SELL Position Lakeland as the easy extension: it is under an hour from both Tampa and Orlando, so it slots into an existing itinerary rather than requiring one of its own. For architecture and design-minded clients, the pitch is strong — Florida Southern College holds the largest singlesite collection of Frank Lloyd Wright buildings in the world, and it’s free to walk around the open campus grounds

to view the outside of all 13 structures. A self-guided map can be purchased for $5 and a guided tour ranges from $35 for a 90-minute basic tour to $125 for in-depth tours, which includes access to interior spaces like the Usonian House and Annie Pfeiffer Chapel. For families craving a break from queues and admission fees, Circle B Bar Reserve and the Se7en Wetlands offer wildlife-spotting — alligators, herons, osprey — without the theme-park crowds. Golfers are a market of their own: Streamsong Resort, built on former phosphate land south of Lakeland, delivers 54 holes from four legendary designers, with a ﬁfth course opening late 2026, alongside a Lodge with grotto spa and nine restaurants. It’s a genuine bucket-list sell. Food-led travellers respond well to speciﬁcs: recommend Nineteen61’s fusion menu and rooftop bar, which was a recommended restaurant in 2026 by the Michelin Guide. Or Peebles’ smoked meat, serving since 1947 (Thursday to Sunday, so advise clients to plan ahead).

WHAT TO SELL

Graham McKenzie Graham’s in-depth knowledge of the U.S. has been accrued from multiple visits to the country over the past 30 years. He has also lived Stateside.

Pictured: (Clockwise from top) The Singing Tower at Bok Tower Gardens; Sweet Magnolias Cafe and Gift Shop, located in downtown Bartow, Florida; Family enjoying a sunset view at Lake Shipp Winter Haven Chain of Lakes

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VISITCENTRLFLORIDA.ORG

Central Florida rewards a slower pace. Bok Tower Gardens, near Lake Wales, suits the growing garden-tourism market, with its 205-foot Singing Tower and 60-bell carillon. For something more energetic, Westgate River Ranch Resort and Rodeo offers a Saturday-night rodeo, horseback riding and glamping in tepees or Conestoga wagons — a slice of Florida’s Spanish-era ranching heritage. The common thread in Lakeland is this: an authenticity clients won’t find on a standard Florida itinerary. It is loved by families and groups for its choice of affordable vacation homes in popular Davenport and Haines City. To find out more about Polk County and become a Visit Central Florida Insider, sign up online at centralfloridatourisminstitute.com/login or scan the QR code. This programme is a complete training, marketing and sales tool with shareable resources consisting of two 12-minute chapters which you can complete at your own pace. Complete the training by October 31, 2026 to be entered into a draw to win one of five £50 gift vouchers.

17 01/09/2026 17:31

Advertorial

A visionary new chapter for The Cove at Atlantis A NEW BEACH CLUB, REFRESHED SUITES AND REIMAGINED DINING OPTIONS AWAIT In 2027, The Cove at Atlantis will unveil a visionary transformation, ushering in a bold new chapter for one of the Caribbean’s most iconic luxury resorts. This resort-wide evolution will reimagine every ocean suite, shared space and pool, while also debuting an iconic Beach Club. The new Cove represents a sophisticated expression of luxury, shaped by the beauty of Paradise Island and the spirit of The Bahamas. An internationally acclaimed team of designers including Edge of Architecture, Champalimaud Design and AvroKO, will bring this vision to life. Perched on the edge of a pristine private beach, The Cove offers a seamless oceanfront getaway. Our guest experience has been reimagined from the ground up, ensuring that every moment of your stay feels just as effortless. When you arrive in the renovated lobby, a personal concierge will greet you with a seamless check-in experience and whisk you away to your room. Every refreshed space is designed to feel discovered, not designed, with a palette of natural materials including honed stone, light-toned wood, and layered plaster. The new, all-suite accommodations are sunlit sanctuaries where ocean views greet you each morning.

Cove Advertorial V7.indd 16

The Beach Club is an intimate, adults-only pool and lifestyle sanctuary inspired by the South of France. Guests will be welcomed with fruit-infused water, chilled towels and sunscreen. Unexpected rituals enrich the day: surprise tastings, a popsicle cart and more. Unique, private pools and hot tubs feature terraced daybeds, luxury cabanas, and an all-new food and beverage programme served by dedicated hosts. Live music sets the scene, while convenient mobile ordering and innovative wellness features create a seamless experience for every guest. In addition to poolside dining, The Cove’s culinary experience will be anchored by acclaimed restaurants from James Beard Awardwinning chefs José Andrés and Michael White, complemented by The Cove’s signature lounge and a thoughtfully curated retail collection. Travel advisors are encouraged to contact The Cove’s Leisure Sales team at leisuresales@atlantisparadise.com or 954-809-2000 to learn more about the experience awaiting their clients on Paradise Island.

COVEATLANTIS . COM

26/08/2026 12:59

Something Beautiful Is on the Horizon An extraordinary transformation is taking shape at The Cove, reimagining every corner of this pristine beachfront destination with organic textures and natural light inspired by our Bahamian surroundings. Slow down and relax with innovative, personalized service, all-new dining and entertainment, and an iconic Beach Club— featuring sparkling pools and unparalleled access to a breathtaking private beach. Event planners can take advantage of more than 500,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor venues across the Atlantis resort. 24-hour personal concierge redesigned poolscape renovated oceanfront suites

coveatlantis.com

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07/08/2026 15:11

Take five

DAYTONA BEACH HIGHLIGHTS 1

FAMILY ATTRACTIONS

Daytona Beach offers family-friendly attractions, including Daytona Lagoon water park, go-karting, mini golf and arcade entertainment. The newly developed Daytona Aquarium & Rainforest Adventure adds equal appeal indoors as well. The Halifax River serves as a protected manatee sanctuary. 2

DAYTONA INTERNATIONAL SPEEDWAY

Dubbed the “Birthplace of Speed”, NASCAR was founded in Daytona Beach. The Daytona International Speedway is one of the city’s defining attractions and you can take guided track tours or visit during events such as the Daytona 500. 3

OVER 20 MILES OF ATLANTIC SHORELINE

Daytona Beach sits about an hour from Orlando on Florida’s east coast, with nearby access to the Kennedy Space Centre and Jacksonville. The beach allows driving on designated sections and supports a mix of swimming, cycling and watersports. 2

PONCE INLET LIGHTHOUSE

Ponce Inlet is great for boat trips, dolphin spotting and nature-based excursions. Built in 1887, Ponce Inlet Lighthouse is worth the climb of 203 steps as the top provides panoramic views across the Atlantic coastline. Nearby, the Marine Science Centre rehabilitates sea turtles and stingrays. 5

DINING WITH LOCAL FLAVOURS

Seafood is a key feature, with several restaurants focusing on sustainably sourced produce such as oysters and scallops. Millie’s Restaurant offers a catch-and-cook experience; head to Aunt Catfish’s on the River for a classic southern buffet; or visit Caribbean Jack’s to watch manatees cruise by.

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DAYTONABEACH.COM

Partner content

02/09/2026 12:34

On location / India

NORTHERN INDIA Ceri-Ann Herbert, a Hays Travel agent, recounts exploring vibrant cities, travelling through the Himalayas, and deep cultural and spiritual moments

ndia completely exceeded every expectation I had. It’s a country full of colour, culture, history, spirituality and some of the warmest hospitality I’ve ever experienced. 1 Our adventure began in Delhi with a visit to the breathtaking Humayun’s Tomb, before staying at the Leela Ambience. From there, we travelled to Shimla via the Himalayan Queen toy train journey from Kalka through the Himalayan foothills – one of the most scenic rail journeys I’ve ever experienced. Hanging out of the side of the train while travelling through the mountains is deﬁnitely a memory that will stay with me forever! Shimla itself was beautiful. We stayed at The Oberoi Cecil, explored the historic town, got caught in a huge thunderstorm, bought emergency umbrellas and quickly learned the local monkeys have absolutely no fear – especially when food is involved. 2 We visited the historic Viceregal Lodge, where the momentous decisions that led to the partition of India, including the 1945–47 Simla Conferences, were debated. Walking along Mall Road to Scandal Point and visiting local hotels gave us a real insight into what the destination offers clients. 3 From Shimla we travelled to Dharamshala, visiting the Dalai Lama Temple Complex and Namgyal

PAKISTAN

Monastery. The atmosphere there was so peaceful, and the cable car ride across Dharamshala gave us the most amazing views over the mountains. 4 The journey then continued to Amritsar, stopping at Kangra Fort and the stunning Masroor Rock Cut Temple along the way. Amritsar was one of the most emotional parts of the trip. Witnessing the evening Palki Ceremony at the Golden Temple was something I will never forget. Watching the Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji carried through the temple surrounded by chanting devotees while the Golden Temple shimmered in the water at night was an experience that felt truly spiritual and incredibly special. Returning the next morning to witness the Langar community kitchens was equally moving. Seeing between 50,000 and 100,000 people fed every single day for free through donations and volunteers was so special. Watching hundreds of volunteers prepare food, cook, serve and clean together across four ﬂoors really showed the heart, generosity and community spirit at th heart of Sikhism. 5 We also visited Jallianwala Bagh and explored the bustling local markets and museums, alongside hotel inspections including Hyatt Regency Amritsar and Courtyard by Marriott

3 Dharamashala 4 Amritsar 5 Jallianwala 2 Shimla Bagh

TOP Selling TIPS Ceri-Ann Herbert Hays Travel

• Highlight the emotional impact of spiritual sites like the Golden Temple. • Promote the region’s variety by showcasing the contrast between bustling cities, Himalayan mountain retreats, and historic colonial towns. • Emphasise the seamless logistics of escorted touring, which allows customers to explore complex, multistop itineraries without any stress. • Showcase authentic cultural moments, such as the incredible community spirit found in the Langar kitchens, to offer customers a truly unique experience. • Leverage your personal stories about unique experiences like the Himalayan toy train to build excitement and trust. Book it: Newmarket’s 18-day India’s Golden Triangle, Shimla, and Amritsar’s Golden Temple starts at £2,778pp, with ﬂights. newmarketholidays.co.uk

INDIA

Delhi

Amritsar, while staying at the lovely Welcomhotel by ITC Raja Sansi.

1 Pictured: (clockwise from top) The Kalka Shimla Toy Train traverses the Himalayan foothills; Humayun’s Tomb, Delhi; Namgyal Tsemo Monastery; Map of areas visited

SELLINGTRAVEL.CO.UK

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21 01/09/2026 15:39

Foursight

Anneka Desrosiers

Co-Director at Southern Cross Travel Wadhurst

THE FAMILY BUSINESS

THE INDEPENDANT AGENT

I always really enjoy reading the stories of people working in travel, as we have such a broad industry made up of a lot of different roles under the travel umbrella. It’s fascinating to see what varied backgrounds we all have, and what life experiences have brought people to work in our industry. I also enjoy reading about destinations, especially those I hold dear to my heart (Canada in particular!) but also those I know less of. It’s really important to keep learning and developing, and depth of knowledge is invaluable in our industry. It’s something clients value greatly. Personal experience and insight will never be replaced by AI. It can’t truly convey how thin the air feels in Dawson City, the sound of the ocean hitting the shore on a Skiathos beach or what the gum trees smell like in the Australian bush early in the morning. It will never be the same as a human interaction!

I have been in the travel industry for over 30 years and have always been captivated and fascinated by the various travel trade magazines. Despite the ever-evolving world we live in, with readily available content on AI and other platforms, I still ﬁnd it invigorating and stimulating to immerse myself in the features and other content the trade publications offer. The special features on countries, cities and places to visit truly inspire me. Not only do they help me to sell many destinations, but they also help me appreciate the diversity and different aspects which the world has to offer. Where the travel trade printed publications truly come into their own is acting as excellent referencing material. In fact, I keep copies of them in my bottom desk drawer as I never know when they may come in handy, especially when engaging with the end consumer or client.

Nilesh Keral

Operations Manager of AJ Tours and Travels Middlesex

In a world saturated with AI and information overload, what stories and inspiration do you value from trade magazines?

Liz Beaty

Director at The Travel Team Brampton, Cumbria

22 Foursight Sept Oct v7.indd 22

THE HIGH STREET AGENCY

THE PATA AGENT

I like reading the travel trade magazines in print form when I get a lunch break, or sometimes I will take them home. With a magazine it is so much easier to ﬂick back and forth – when I search online you can often forget where you have seen something and then it can get lost amid too many website tabs. It’s great to read interviews, but I also feel that the adverts and articles come to life more in print form. And its easier to save certain supplements to refer back to, or show to other members of staff. I do like getting news headlines in my inbox, as often there’s just time to catch up on breaking news, but I rarely click to read the full article – especially if it involves logging in with a password. I am sure the online versions of articles complement the printed magazines – it’s probably similar to reading a Kindle or paperback – there’s beneﬁts and individual preferences to both.

Our tagline is “creating inspiring journeys”, so I enjoy reading articles which tell me about a destination in a way that captures my imagination. The best articles are those with a more detailed description, which convey the essence of the place and relate special experiences. We often read that Vietnam’s cities are “vibrant”, but Hanoi came to life when I read about a ride on a Vespa driven by an elderly lady, weaving through the trafﬁc and navigating the narrow streets of the old town. Similarly, Sri Lanka’s wildlife is said to be “iconic”, but I was captivated by the tale of a nocturnal hike through a conservation area in Sigiriya. Once I am excited by a destination, I am motivated to learn more, so I connect with the tourist board and tour operators, seeking information. Then I’m ready to share my enthusiasm with clients, inspiring them to make the journey.

John Coles

Managing Director, Kew Bridge Travel London

SELLINGTRAVEL.CO.UK

02/09/2026 14:54

Opinion

Lee Ison-Ainsworth, Membership and Strategy Director, Advantage Travel Partnership, makes the case for why AI will never replace the humanity and personal touch of travel agents

“The biggest threat to travel agents isn’t AI. It’s letting customers believe AI is enough”

Here’s what I keep coming back to: AI can only reason with the information it’s given. It doesn’t know when something important is missing. Great agents do. A customer asks for help planning a family holiday. A good agent asks who’s travelling. Whether this is the ﬁrst trip since becoming a parent. Whether someone struggles with stairs. Whether a nervous ﬂyer would do better on a different airline. Whether this is about celebrating 30 years of marriage. Those questions and others don’t appear in a prompt. They come from curiosity, experience and listening, and that’s where our value begins.

the human touch

Pictured: (clockwise from above) Lee Ison-Ainsworth; “AI and online bookings will never replace the human touch” (istock. com: primeimages)

ach time new technology arrives, someone predicts the end of travel agents. The internet was going to replace us. Online booking was going to replace us. Comparison sites were going to replace us. Now it’s AI. But AI is different. It doesn’t just change how customers book — it changes the value they expect from us before the conversation even starts. Every customer can now generate a polished, professional-looking itinerary in under a minute. They can compare destinations, plan a two-week road trip and arrive with a plan before they’ve picked up the phone. The headlines ask

whether AI is coming for our jobs. That’s the wrong question. The more relevant one is whether we still demonstrate the value only people can provide.

judgement call If our worth lies in finding a flight, recommending a hotel or producing an itinerary, we should expect AI to do more and more of it. But if that’s how we’ve defined ourselves, we’ve been underselling our profession for years. The best travel agents were never valued for holding information, they were valued for the judgement they applied to it. SELLINGTRAVEL.CO.UK

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The irony is that AI doesn’t make expertise less valuable; it makes it more valuable. As information becomes abundant, judgement becomes scarce. Customers don’t need another source of information; they have plenty. What they want is confidence. Confidence that they’ve chosen the right destination, the right supplier, the right trip. Confidence that when flights are cancelled and carefully laid plans unravel, someone will pick up the phone, fight their corner and find a solution. AI can produce an impressive recommendation, but it can’t stand behind it. A travel agent can. When something goes wrong, AI doesn’t own the outcome. A travel agent does. So should we see AI as a threat? Only if we refuse to evolve. The smartest businesses won’t ignore it and won’t try to out-compute it. They’ll put it to work, speeding up research, drafting, analysing reviews, comparing suppliers, clearing hours of admin in minutes, and then apply the one thing it can’t reliably replicate: professional judgement. Used well, AI doesn’t replace the human touch, it gives us more time to deliver it. Every hour saved behind the scenes is another spent building relationships. Become more scripted, and we become easier to replace. Become more curious, personal and accountable, and we remind customers why they chose us in the first place.

23 01/09/2026 16:22

Agent interview

Meet Tracie Ruffell, Founder of Exemplar Travel, who says she’s got a “PhD in life”. Charlotte Flach finds out more about her unconventional sales methods and growing business

“Talk to me like I’m your doctor”: how the gift of the gab has led to lifetime clients “I marched up to the person in charge who told me there was an hour wait. I said ‘I haven’t got time for that, I’m on my lunch break!’ She bumped me to the top of the queue.” The interviewer was so impressed with Tracie’s encyclopedic knowledge that she was given the job the next day and promoted to Assistant Manager within three months.

Relationships are everything

Pictured: (clockwise from above) Tracie on holiday with her husband, Dan; Tracie and Dan at F1® DRIVE London at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium

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racie Ruffell never expected to become a travel agent, even though she says she’s been “talking about travel since I came out of the womb.” “I never actually planned to work in travel, but looking back, I was acting like a travel agent long before I became one,” she says. “I’d come back from holidays and spend hours telling colleagues exactly where I’d been, what I’d done and why they should go. Then I’d spend my lunch break finding them the best deals.” After leaving school, she worked for an insurance company before spending seven years at Clarins’ head office. A Going Places open day then proved the catalyst for her move into travel.

This year marks Tracie’s 30th year in travel, and she credits her success – and her ability to retain clients – to the strong relationships she has built with people, along with a few unconventional methods. While in her 20s, Tracie took a counselling course, which she says has helped her get people to open up to her. “When I speak to a new client I say, ‘Talk to me like I’m your doctor.’ If you tell a doctor, ‘I’ve got a headache,’ there are hundreds of possible causes. But if you explain exactly where it hurts, how often it happens and what triggers it, they’ll diagnose it much faster,” she explains. “Travel works the same way. The more clients tell me about how they travel, what they love, what they dislike, the better I can tailor their holiday.” Rather than focusing on making a quick sale, Tracie takes the time to get to know her clients and build relationships for the long term..“I don’t want them to be a one-off booker; I want them for life.” SELLINGTRAVEL.CO.UK

Having strong relationships with suppliers, too, has helped Tracie secure new business and preferential treatment for her clients. It’s about who you know,” she says. “One new client wanted to stay at a luxury hotel in Monaco that hadn’t released its rates yet. I picked up the phone to someone I knew and, by that afternoon, I had exclusive access to them.” Tracie’s quick thinking and going the extra mile secured her over £1,000 commission on five hotel nights, but it’s the relationship that’s been created which she hopes will pay off in the future. “I asked her who she’d been booking with and she mentioned a well-known agency. She spends roughly £100,000 every Christmas on a holiday, so now that I’ve won her over, hopefully next Christmas she’ll spend that with me!”

Giving birth to a successful business After several years working for a handful of holiday companies, Tracie met her husband, Dan, and they married when she was 41. It was then that she decided to launch her own business. “People come back from their honeymoon and have a baby. I came back from mine and launched a business, which is my baby,” she jokes.. Dan also joined the business this year and together they launched a sports hospitality division, based on Dan’s experience in recruitment and as a sports journalist, plus his general love of sports. “For me, it’s not just booking a holiday and getting my commission. I’m doing something I love and I get paid for it, which is a win-win,” says Tracie.

Partner content

02/09/2026 14:57

Amelia Island, Florida: Find Your Unwind.

CONNECT SHOWCASE LEEDS

Located just 30 minutes from Jacksonville on Florida’s northeast coast, Amelia Island oﬀers a relaxing alternative for travellers seeking an authentic American holiday. This 13-mile-long barrier island features pristine Atlantic beaches and rare maritime forests, ideal for outdoor exploration.

lobal partners shared highlights with agents at our Selling Travel Connect Showcase event. The new Amtrak Mardi Gras Service connects Mobile and New Orleans, making Alabama even easier to visit. The Bahamas has free flight and ferry tickets for those travelling from Nassau to other islands. The new JA Sports & Shooting Club is a destination for golf as well as leisure and performance activities. Leger and Shearings’ Lumina coaches feature 27 cushioned leather seats with glass roofs and high-speed Wi-Fi from Starlink. Following the sad passing of Dolly Parton, clients will be keen to visit her SongTeller Hotel in Nashville, along with Dolly’s Life of Many Colors Museum, on the third floor of the hotel. Wendy Wu Tours emphasises that the biggest opportunity for agents right now is to look beyond the perception that China is a ‘once-in-a-lifetime’ trip.

Pictured: (top) Le Morne Peninsula and Le Morne Brabant mountain in southwestern Mauritius (Xavier Coiffic); (below) Agents speed date with partners at Harvey Nichols

The island’s rich history will take your clients on a walk back in time. This legacy is beautifully preserved within the Victorian charm of its walkable downtown. Discover a side of Florida that feels both familiar and wonderfully unexpected. Learn more at AmeliaIsland.com/Travel

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01/09/2026 16:27PM 3/18/26 5:28 19/03/2026 10:39

Inspiring those who sell travel Get Connected in 2026-27! SELLING TRAVEL CONNECT

SEPTEMBER 2026 Connect Showcase London: September 14 Connect North America Newcastle: September 21 Chester: September 22 Connect Tenerife Edinburgh: September 28 Belfast: September 29 Bristol: September 30 OCTOBER 2026 Connect Indian Ocean & Middle East London: October 5 Nottingham: October 6 Solihull: October 7 Connect Showcase Guildford: October 12 NOVEMBER 2026 Connect Europe Birmingham: November 16 Connect Showcase Leeds: November 17 Manchester: November 18 DECEMBER 2026 Connect Africa London: December 1

DECEMBER 2026 CONTINUED Connect Showcase Chester: December 2 Connect Luxury Newcastle: December 3 Harrogate: December 7 London: December 8 JANUARY 2027 Connect Luxury Glasgow: January 11 Chester: January 12 Solihull: January 13 Connect Spain Cardiff: January 26 Chester: January 27 FEBRUARY 2027 Connect Asia London: February 8 Cardiff: February 9 Connect Showcase Belfast: February 15 MARCH 2027 Connect North America London: March 1 Glasgow: March 2 Connect Showcase Newcastle: March 8

MARCH 2027 CONTINUED Connect LGBTQ+ London: March 15 Manchester: March 16 APRIL 2027 Connect Showcase Birmingham: April 12 MAY 2027 Connect Showcase Bristol: May 10 Connect Indian Ocean & Middle East Newcastle: May 24 Harrogate: May 25 Chester: May 26 JUNE 2027 Connect Showcase Guildford: June 3 Connect Latin America Manchester: June 14 Leeds: June 15

sellingtravel.co.uk

sellingtravel.co.uk/connect-calendar

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01/09/2026 17:04

Six of the best

WELLNESS IN ALBERTA Whether unwinding at a spa, exploring mountain trails or escaping to a secluded lodge beneath dark skies, Alberta offers many ways to slow down

MAHIKAN TRAILS

MÉTIS CROSSING

RIMROCK BANFF, EMBLEMS COLLECTION

Join a guided medicine walk and discover how Indigenous Peoples have used native plants for healing and wellbeing for generations at Mahikan Trails. These immersive experiences, run and owned by Cree people, invite visitors to slow down, reconnect with nature and learn traditional plant knowledge in Alberta’s forests and mountain landscapes.

On the banks of the North Saskatchewan River, Métis Crossing blends culture and wellbeing. Clients can stay in a Sky Watching Dome beneath some of Alberta’s darkest skies, take part in land-based experiences and look ahead to the new Sage and Spruce Indigenous Spa, featuring sauna and cold-plunge experiences inspired by Indigenous traditions.

Rimrock Banff, Emblems Collection is designed to immerse guests in the surrounding wilderness. Its new wellness bathhouse features vitality pools, hydrothermal circuits, saunas, steam rooms and a mountain-facing inﬁnity pool, alongside experiences such as forest bathing and alpine yoga. It offers a fresh take on wellbeing in the heart of Banff National Park.

BASIN GLACIAL WATERS

WARRIOR WOMEN

MOUNT ENGADINE LODGE

Located within Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, BASIN Glacial Waters draws inspiration from the surrounding Rockies. Guests can alternate between warm baths, cold plunges and steam rooms while enjoying spectacular mountain views. The glacial-fed retreat blends ancient thermotherapy traditions with contemporary spa design for a truly restorative escape.

For a different perspective on Jasper’s landscapes, Warrior Women offers Indigenousand women-led experiences including medicine walks, storytelling, drumming and ﬁreside gatherings. Guests learn about traditional knowledge, local history and the deep connection between Indigenous communities and the land.

WiFi becomes an afterthought at Mount Engadine Lodge, set deep in Kananaskis Country. Days can be spent hiking trails, watching for wildlife or enjoying the mountain views, before settling in for an evening under some of the darkest skies in the Rockies. Accommodation ranges from lodge rooms to glamping tents and yurts.

Pictured: Stay in a SkyWatching Dome under Dark Skies

Partner content

STM_Six of the best_Alberta v6.indd 27

TRAVELALBERTA.COM

27 30/08/2026 11:27

SKIP THE AIRPORT...

PANORAMIC GLASS ROOF The sky travels with you

OVER 1000mm OF LEGROOM Room to truly unwind

JUST 27 GUESTS Never crowded, always considered

...KEEP THE LUXURY

TWO HOSTS, ONE CURATOR Hosted, never just driven

See Europe in a whole new light

No flights. No stress. Just 27 guests, a panoramic glass roof and fully escorted holidays that offer your customers more...

Find out more at leger.co.uk/lumina Untitled-1 1

Rated ‘Excellent’

019141

Order your brochures from BP TradeGate

27/08/2026 16:54

Festive breaks

Christmas: sun vs snow Whether clients dream of balmy days spent on the beach or swoon over snowy landscapes, here’s how to sell festive breaks for all tastes, says Stuart Forster

unshine blazes as people queue for prawns from a trailer selling seafood. The approach of Christmas means it’s barbecue season here in Western Australia. My road trip has seen me swimming in the sea off Busselton Pier, meandering between the sculpture-like Pinnacles in Nambung National Park and pausing for photos by Hutt Lagoon’s shocking pink water. Continuing north to Kalbarri National Park will bring opportunities to hike the looping gorge carved by the Murchison River. I’m loving my adventures in the Australian summer. This Christmas the only ice I’ll see will be in drinks. Maybe next year the snow will call?

A swing to the sun Newmarket Holidays reports strong momentum for festive breaks promising winter sun. Malta has emerged as its fastest-growing Christmas itinerary, with bookings increasing by around 92% year-on-year. Christmas in Andalucia has also seen steady growth, with bookings rising by around 35%. Yet traditional breaks in Europe remain a dependable favourite, with Christmas in Budapest the company’s most established product by volume, while its new, all-inclusive

Christmas in the Bavarian Forest itinerary is in demand. “Whether someone dreams of Christmas markets and mulled wine or a table in the sunshine, there’s a festive break to suit them, and our trade partners are perfectly placed to make that match,” says Hayley Morris, Head of Trade Sales and Partnerships at Newmarket Holidays. Spas in Thailand and island resorts in the Maldives and Seychelles have long offered UK holidaymakers an alternative to established European winter breaks. Tourism to the Middle East will hopefully rebound in time for the season of goodwill, with Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea Coast an emerging winter sunshine destination. So too is Alila Jabal Akhdar in Oman’s Al Hajar Mountains, where guests can enjoy dramatic landscapes, crackling hearths and stargazing under clear skies, cultural encounters in nearby mountain villages and wellness treatments.

wintry breaks Nonetheless, Alpine resorts and traditional winter destinations have an established allure. For holidaymakers looking to limit their carbon emissions, resorts in central Europe offer a no-fly

Pictured: (clockwise from top) Christmas market holidays remain best-sellers for many tour operators; Santa isn’t just found in colder climes, with many warmer destinations now featuring traditional experiences (Alila Hinu); Spend the festive season spotting koalas at Yanchep National Park; The Marsaxlokk harbour in Malta, famous for its colorful traditional fishing boats

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alternative to intercontinental travel. “A festive rail holiday in Switzerland combines all the ingredients for a truly magical Christmas – snow-draped Alpine peaks, chocolate-box villages, world-renowned mountain railways and wonderful companionship,” says Maria Cook, General Manager at Ffestiniog Travel, whose trade partners receive a 10% commission on escorted and 5% on unescorted tours. Christmas markets have an enduring appeal, according to Ashley Dellow, Head of Retail Sales at Leger Shearings. “As we near towards the end of the main summer break, we now enter into the most key selling period for our Christmas Markets and Festive breaks at Leger and Shearings. Really popular is Shearings Turkey and Tinsel itinerary, which represents great value for money and remains a

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Focus on

TOP CHRISTMAS EXPERIENCES A-ROSA’s river cruises are ideal for multigenerational families, letting guests experience several Christmas markets in one trip. Vienna is an outstanding destination for couples or small groups looking to experience Christmas markets. Jet2CityBreaks depart from across the UK.

ﬁrm favourite with what is included, and there is such a wide range of choice to choose from. “If clients want a unique European Christmas Market, why not try Valkenburg in the Netherlands where the markets are in underground caves.” Meanwhile, Audley has added Finnish Lapland to its portfolio of destinations, meaning clients can enjoy wintry experiences from gliding across the snow by husky sled to meeting Santa at his workshop, alongside cruising through icy waters in Rovaniemi and spending the night beneath the aurora in a glass-roofed igloo in Levi.

Understand the client For those looking to avoid complex travel arrangements over the festive season, seasonal river cruises offer a comfortable way to experience

multiple Christmas markets in a single trip. Oliver Tillson, A-ROSA’s Cruise Sales Manager, says: “Christmas markets remain one of Europe’s mostloved festive traditions. For agents, it’s an easy way to match family-focused clients with a stress-free, all-inclusive Christmas trip.” Anna Sperry, Marketing and Operations Executive at America and Canada As You Like It, says: “The best festive breaks start with understanding what your client wants from their holiday. Winter offers far more than skiing and Christmas markets, so taking the time to match the destination to their interests will always create a more memorable trip.” The year-end in North America is a crucial time in the NFL (American Football) season and a break in a city such as Chicago brings an opportunity

Pictured: (Clockwise from top) A red Rhaetian Railway train crossing the Landwasser Viaduct in the Swiss Alps; The Wiener Eistraum outdoor ice skating rink in front of the illuminated Vienna City Hall (Krzysztof Kowalik); Some may choose to spend Christmas holidays on rolling sand dunes in places like Ras Al Khaimah, rather than in snowy landscapes (Sander Traa)

Solo travel is on the rise. Valletta and the hidden gems of Malta is one of specialist tour operator Just You’s escorted holidays. Ras Al Khaimah offers winter sunshine with easy access to local culture and heritage. Kenwood Travel operates holidays to the emirate.

to combine watching a Bears game at Soldier Field with Christmas shopping on the Magniﬁcent Mile, visiting world-class museums and viewing architecture – including along the acclaimed Frank Lloyd Wright Trail. Fluctuating exchange rates also influence travel trends. Notably, sterling has climbed 8.4% against the Japanese yen over the past year, yet that’s by no means the only reason to visit, according to Airi Motokura, Director of the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) in London. “Japan bridges the gap between snowy winter wonderland and oncein-a-lifetime experiences, making it an increasingly lucrative destination for UK travel agents to sell during the festive season.”

BOOK IT Ffestiniog Travel’s Christmas and New Year in Switzerland tour departs December 21, costing from £3,880pp. ffestiniogtravel.com

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Business cabin

Discover the magic of Australia in the Sky Relax and recline knowing everything’s taken care of. For more information, visit Qantas Agency Connect at qantas.com/agencyconnect

Sydney, New South Wales

Untitled-1 1

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How to sell

INDIA There’s nowhere quite like India, but for some clients booking a first-time trip can feel daunting. Use these tips to help you sell, says Jo Reeder WHY SELL IT? India has universal appeal for clients who want to experience something completely different. For clients who want a holiday that changes how they see the world, India is a great option. “Agents sometimes assume India is a hard sell. In our experience, it’s the opposite. It’s an easy upsell once a client is already looking at long-haul touring, because nowhere else delivers that combination of culture, colour and value,” says Joshua Harford, Agent Commercial Manager at Mercury Holidays. It also offers strong add-on potential for agents – from upgraded flights to optional mini-tours – plus strong repeat appeal. Once someone has been to India often they often want to go back and see a different part of the country.

WHO TO SELL TO? Hayley Backley, Private Travel Advisor, Travel Four Seasons, says India appeals to people who love experiences. “It’s perfect for couples, honeymooners, wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, food lovers and well-travelled clients looking for somewhere different. It also

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surprises luxury travellers. Clients are often amazed at just how much luxury their money can buy.” Mercury Holidays reports seeing older, more experienced long-haul travellers going to India for the first time who are looking for more cultural or immersive experiences that they can’t find on a typical beach holiday. India can be energetic and immersive, but it is also suited to slow, comfortable travel with luxurious touches. There is no one type of India holiday – that’s why understanding what the client wants is so important.

HOW TO SELL? Sometimes the biggest barrier to selling isn’t India itself – it’s the gap between perception and reality. Many travellers fear the unknown, worry about eating the food, getting ill or facing challenges around transport, accommodation or local guides. “Once we explain to clients that an escorted tour removes all the issues around logistics and that our itineraries are built around comfortable pacing, private modern transport, staying in

Pictured: (Clockwise from top) A tiger in the wild; Cruising in Kerala; The Golden Temple in Amritsar

Western standard hotels with expert local guides, those anxieties usually disappear,” says Harford. Backley starts every enquiry by asking clients what excites them. “If they love wildlife, build the trip around safaris. If history is their thing, focus on Rajasthan and the Golden Triangle. Once you know why they’re travelling, the itinerary almost builds itself. I’d much rather someone come home saying, ‘I can’t wait to go back’ than feeling exhausted because they’ve tried to squeeze an entire country into one holiday.” Angra agrees saying, “The first itinerary should have a balance of the iconic sights, local interaction, good food and enough free time to absorb the destination. Most importantly, the first trip should leave the clients wanting to come back. I’d suggest at least seven nights so clients can enjoy the destinations rather than just moving quickly from one monument to another.” Book it: Mercury Holidays has a 10-day Essence of North India tour, a strong recommendation for first-time visitors to the country. Priced from £1,549pp based on two people, departing May 2027. mercuryholidays.co.uk

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In conversation

Marina Snellenberg, TUI’s Senior Customer Experience Accessibility Manager, sets out the tour operator’s commitment to accessbility and plans to keep the momentum going

“we’ve made significant progress– but it’s only the beginning”

and recognising that accessibility is ultimately about people, not processes.

Can you talk us through your neuroinclusive holidays? This is an area I’m particularly passionate about because accessibility is about so much more than ramps and lifts. Many disabilities are non-visible, and we want our approach to reﬂect that. Our neuroinclusive holiday programme was shaped in partnership with TUI’s Neurodiversity Colleague Network, with colleagues with lived experience playing a key role in its development. At selected TUI BLUE hotels we’ve introduced sensory spaces that provide a calmer environment when guests need time away from busy surroundings. We’ve also invested in specialist training for Kids’ Club colleagues.

Where will you take accessibility offering next??

Why is accessible travel important focus for TUI?

Pictured: (clockwise from above) Marina Snellenberg; A traveller in a wheelchair embarks on an accessible TUI holiday; A man with a prosthetic leg holidays with his partner

Partner content

In Conversation TUI V6.indd 33

Tell me a bit more about your dedicated teams.

One of the biggest challenges we hear about is the lack of reliable information. Too often, customers are expected to make important decisions based on vague descriptions or assumptions. Our partnership with AccessAble has created detailed accessibility guides for more than 300 hotels, based on professional surveys rather than marketing descriptions. These free-touse guides provide factual information, photographs and measurements, allowing customers to decide for themselves whether a hotel is right for their individual requirements.

One thing that continually stands out to me is the commitment of our colleagues. Accessibility isn’t something that sits with one department at TUI. Our dedicated Assisted Travel Team plays a particularly important role. They’re specially trained to support customers with a wide range of visible and nonvisible disabilities and work closely with colleagues and suppliers to coordinate assistance throughout the journey. We’ve also invested in accessibility training for thousands of colleagues across the business, helping them feel conﬁdent supporting customers TUI.CO.UK

your

We’ve made signiﬁcant progress, but I genuinely feel we’re only at the beginning of the journey. Our focus is on building on what we know works. That means expanding our Detailed Access Guides to more hotels and more markets, improving the accessibility information available online, increasing self-service opportunities and continuing to evolve our neuroinclusive offering. My hope is that TUI continues to help set the standard for inclusive travel, making accessibility a natural part of great customer experience rather than something separate from it. Travel should create memories, conﬁdence, and opportunities for everyone, and we’re committed to playing our part in making that a reality for more people.

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Advertorial

GLENN ARONWITS

Your Ticket to Adventure

Inspire clients with journeys through glaciercarved landscapes, towering peaks, coastal wilderness and iconic Denali. Create lasting memories for your customers—and earn rewarding commissions and benefits for yourself. deliver a customised Alaska adventure. Every passenger enjoys oversized windows, knowledgeable onboard guides and forward-facing reclining seats designed to ehance every mile of the journey. Daytime schedules ensure travellers never miss the breathtaking landscapes unfolding outside their windows.

About our services

Adventure Class offers spacious seating, large picture windows and access to café and bistro services featuring local favourites, snacks, craft beverages and grab-and-go meals. Many routes also feature Vista Dome cars.

About our trains

The Coastal Classic follows the dramatic shores of Turnagain Arm to Seward, while the Denali Star links Anchorage, Talkeetna, Denali and Fairbanks, delivering unforgettable views of North America’s tallest peak. The Glacier Discovery Train provides access to Whittier, Spencer Glacier and Prince William Sound, while the Aurora Winter Train reveals Alaska’s snow-covered landscapes and northern lights adventures.

About ARTE

GLENN ARONWITS

laska Railroad offers travelers a front-row seat to some of North America’s most spectacular landscapes. For travel advisors, it also presents an exceptional opportunity to create memorable client experiences while earning commissions through the Alaska Railroad Travel Expert (ARTE) program. Stretching 500 miles across the heart of Alaska, the Alaska Railroad connects many of the state’s most sought-after destinations, including Anchorage, Seward, Whittier, Talkeetna, Fairbanks and Denali National Park. Along the way, passengers travel through pristine river valleys, alpine forests, dramatic coastlines and the stunning landscapes of the Chugach and Alaska ranges. Daily summer departures make it easy for visitors to explore the state’s iconic regions in comfort and style. The railroad’s collection of multi-day rail packages simplifies Alaska travel by combining rail transportation, accommodations and unforgettable experiences into seamless itineraries. Whether clients dream of cruising among the glaciers of Kenai Fjords National Park, spotting wildlife in Prince William Sound or witnessing the magic of the northern lights, the Alaska Railroad can help

For travellers looking for a premium rail experience, GoldStar Service elevates the journey even further. Available aboard the Denali Star and Coastal Classic trains, GoldStar guests enjoy bi-level dome cars with panoramic glass ceilings, access to the world’s only upper-level outdoor viewing platform, with dining, complimentary non-alcoholic beverages and adult beverage service included.

Advisors can register as a Travel Trade Partner, complete the ARTE training webinars, connect with the reservations team and start earning. Participants receive a base commission on rail, lodging, day trips and Alaska Railroad multi-day adventure packages. With comprehensive sales tools, booking support, marketing resources and commissionable vacation packages, ARTE equips advisors to confidently sell. For clients, it’s the trip of a lifetime. For advisors, it’s a partnership that turns Alaska’s unforgettable landscapes into lasting business success.

alaskarailroad.com/travel-trade

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Luxury Rail

L U X U R Y

T R A I N

T R I P S

TO rail ABOUT Luxurious trains are popping up all over the world, as clients realise that the journey can be just as impactful as the destination, says Ulrike Lemmin-Woolfrey

lazy morning beckons, with no immediate sightseeing stops scheduled. I'm still stretched across the double bed, coffee by my side, shower waiting. I continue gazing at the countryside of northern India moving past my window. Fields stretching into the distance, with countless women planting seedlings along straight rows. Every woman is wearing a sari of a different colour, making for a mesmerising spectacle. How they get to their place of work, I could not hazard a guess, as we seem to be miles from the nearest community or even road. One of the many advantages of taking a luxury train is that you can reach places cars cannot, and have a much better view

than any airplane window seat could ever offer.

How it once was When the world’s first luxury train, the Orient Express, was launched in 1883, it was a sensation. And it still is. Travel in the late 1800s and especially early 1900s was much more luxurious than your average journey today, and very much the domain of the privileged. Travelling by train, with overnight stops in fashionable hotels, was popular, and everybody who was anybody jumped aboard. Yet, after the World Wars, and with the onset of cheaper and faster connections through ﬂights, the world fell out of love with slow and expensive

travel. Luxury and overnight trains reduced or stopped their routes around the world. For a few decades people took to zipping around the globe on economy ﬂights, ticking off countries. In more recent times, travellers seem to have decided that not only is slow travel better for the mind, allowing us to savour each place and experience, but it is also better for our ailing planet. One by one, train journeys have started to return, with travel specialists Explore Worldwide reporting a 41% year-on-year increase in rail journey bookings in 2025. And just as overnight

Pictured: (above) Watching the world go by from the comfort of a luxurious train cabin

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Feature

trains have made a firm return to Europe, allowing people to avoid flights, more and more luxurious trains are popping up worldwide. For example, you can now ride rather than walk along the Camino de Santiago de la Compostella, cross the Andes by train and, just this year, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express train added a new route between Paris and the Amalfi Coast.

The renaissance of luxury train travel Why the change? Gary Franklin, SVP Trains and Cruises, Belmond says: "The difference is that rail is no longer judged as just a beautiful way to get somewhere, rather, it’s judged as a destination in its own right." He adds: "For a long time, luxury was measured by what you owned; today it’s measured by what you do, and how you choose to spend your time. Luxury rail sits at the heart of that change. At Belmond our vision is reflected in our 'Slow Luxury' ethos, which is all about giving our guests time to enjoy unrivalled travel experiences.” Dan Reising, Product Marketing and Communications Manager

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at Railbookers, adds: "Luxury rail continues to grow year-over-year in demand. We have seen nearly 44 per cent growth in luxury bookings since 2025, and it makes up an everexpanding percentage of our total bookings. We continue to see guests celebrating special occasions like honeymoons, anniversaries, birthdays and retirements, or just taking the chance to cross something off their bucket list.” When faced with clients who are new to luxury train travel, he offers the following advice: ”for agents, clients may have the exact train journey in mind based on seeing it online or from other sources, but may need help completing the entire holiday. While a luxury rail

journey is often the showpiece of a holiday, it’s important to consider the other aspects of the entire trip, such as adding on additional destinations, finding the perfect hotel to match clients’ desires, and additional touches like sightseeing and transfers to round out the complete itinerary.”

“While a luxury rail journey is often the showpiece of a holiday, it's important to consider other aspects of the entire trip” upselling the journey There is often good commission to be made by upselling to customers. Hayley Morris, Head of Trade Sales and Partnerships at Newmarket Holidays offers her tips: "Sell the experience, not just the transport. Lead with the glassdome views, onboard dining and the romance of the route. "Position the upgrade early. Clients booking a wish-list luxury trip are usually receptive to premium classes if it’s raised up front." Clients looking for an upgraded experience may enjoy Alaska Railroad's high-end GoldStar Service that features luxury amenities and F&B, glass-domed ceilings and private

Pictured: (clockwise from top) Exterior of the Silk Road Express; Fine dining on a Belmond train; The bar cart on the Britannic Explorer; The streets of Bukhara (Evgeny Matveev)

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Luxury Rail

What’s new?

outdoor viewing platforms as the carriages whizz through the wild Alaskan landscapes. Closer to home, the Britannic Explorer invites travellers to discover Britain through a plethora of threenight journeys through Cornwall, Wales, or the Lake District, staying in luxury suites, with an onboard spa thrown into the mix. Or pitch the Venice-Simplon Orient Express which offers a three-night trip travelling in luxury between Paris and Portofino. To really up the trip's credentials, Morris adds: "Pair rail with a cruise or touring add-on. It lifts overall value. Target the right client – these trips are ideal for milestone celebrations and travellers who value comfort and oncein-a-lifetime moments."

One of luxury rail's newest additions is a spectacular one: travelling along the ancient Silk Road by train on the Golden Eagle. On a route previously only accessible to camel caravans or intrepid travellers stringing together Central Asian countries, you can now sit back and travel between Tashkent, Uzbekistan and Beijing, with Silk Road stops such as Samarkand, Bukhara, Kashgar, and Xi’an along the way. The train itself is modern but with old-world glamour, sumptuous suites, a well-stocked bar car and observation lounges allowing views of mountains and deserts. Another new train with breathtaking views is the Dream of the Desert, which launches this autumn, travelling roundtrip from Riyadh to AlUla over three days and two nights, available to book between October and May Meanwhile the new Al Andalus train, complete with historic and luxurious carriages once used by the British Royal Family, meanders for seven days from Madris through southern Spain to Seville, sampling sherry in Jerez and visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites along the way. And this September, Railbookers launched a 60-day round-the-world rail SELLINGTRAVEL.CO.UK

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journey joining up some of the world’s most luxurious and scenic trains, from the Indian Maharaja’s Express to the Belmond Royal Scotsman and Canada’s Rocky Mountaineer, covering four continents. Once dates open up for 2027, travellers can expect experiences such as private tours of Rome's Colosseum and safari in Ranthambore National Park.

Book it Alaska Railroad's Coastal Classic route runs from May to September, from Anchorage to Seward. The one-way trip with GoldStar Service is priced from $491pp. alaskarailroad.com

ULRIKE LEMMINWOOLFREY Ulrike takes numerous rail trips every year. Whether travelling in luxury or using a local railcard, she believes that trains are preferable to planes.

Pictured: (clockwise from top) Dining set up on the Belmond Royal Scotsman; Trekking through the desert on one of the Silk Road Express excursions; The Rocky Mountaineer offers a brush with nature from its outdoor viewing platforms

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Focus on

GREEK ISLANDS Greece has powerful pull for the UK market, with the charm and diversity of its islands calling for repeat visits to discover something new, says Xenia Taliotis

irens. Not the kind that signal emergency, nor the femme fatales that lit up Hollywood in the golden age of ﬁlm, but the ones that people cannot resist, no matter what. In ancient Greece, the malevolent halfwoman, half-bird sirens that haunted its seas lured sailors to their deaths with their song. So powerful was the pull of those melodies that the mythical hero Odysseus had to be tied to the mast of his vessel so he wouldn’t jump ship to follow them. I often think of that tale when my own sirens – the benevolent, welcoming islands of Greece – call me be back there. The hypnotic melody of their very names, Syros, Sifnos and Serifos; Paxos, Paros and Patmos; Crete, Corfu and Kos promise peace, and that is what they deliver.

Visitor numbers surging It seems others feel that same need to return as I do: the country and its islands are consistently in the top 10 destinations visited by Brits, with 2024, 2025 and, indeed, the first half of 2026 showing significant upsurges. According to Greek Travel Pages, which has reporting on the country’s travel industry since 1975, hotel bookings for January to May 2026 were 33.3% higher than for the same period past year. Chris Wright, Managing Director of Sunvil, says the country’s enduring popularity is down to the desire to

gain a deeper knowledge of all that Greece offers. “First visits often focus on familiar islands or iconic sights, but many clients return in search of something quieter or more immersive – a lesser known island, an inland region or travel outside the peak summer months when the pace slows and local life comes to fore.” In other words, the sirens that call them back are the culture and history; the people and the welcome they provide; the diversity and authenticity, and the food and wine.

changing behaviours Wright has been visiting Greece for decades, but is still surprised by its variety and charms. “The distinct identity of each island remains rooted in traditions, in the landscape, and the history, rather than being shaped by tourism. There is such diversity, and I feel that if agents were to add quieter, less-visited islands to a client’s itinerary they would greatly enrich their experience.” Tinos, Folegandros and Sifnos have long been cherished by those in the know, but they are now attracting travellers who are keen to travel beyond Santorini and Mykonos, says

Xenia Taliotis Xenia is a London-based writer of Greek origin. She writes regularly for The Times and The Telegraph.

“Greece is ideal for anyone wishing to enjoy a slower way to travel”

Pictured: (clockwise from top) The rocky landscape of Folegandros (Despina Galani); Distinctive white houses on Tinos (Matthieu Million); Coastal path on Sifnos (Johnny Africa); Boats off the coast of Samos (Anthony Picotte)

38 Focus On - Greek Islands v8.indd 38

Wright. “Tinos has welcomed its first genuinely luxury property in Odera, and Folegandros now has the five-star Gundari Resort. What makes these islands so compelling is that they are the ‘real’ Greece, rather than a version of it curated for tourism.” Besides these selling points, Greece is also an ideal choice for anyone wishing to enjoy a slower way of travelling, or to travel out of peak season. There is increased interest in both, says Eleni Skarveli, Director of the Greek National Tourist Organisation (GNTO), UK and Ireland, with visitors keen to experience Greece in a more authentic and regenerative way. “After the summer rush, travel agents can promote different types of getaways, among them agri-tourism and nature-based breaks, including mushroom foraging in the Pindus Mountains in Northern Greece, or the olive harvests and tastings on Crete and Naxos; special-interest holidays, including Greek cooking on Ikaria, and cultural events such as February’s nationwide Apokries Carnival.” For visitors wishing to experience

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Focus on / Greek Islands

slow travel, a train journey is an excellent choice. The country’s rail network is not expansive, but does include some spectacular routes, the most notable one of which is the 120-year-old Odontotos rack railway, from the coastal town of Diakopto, in the Peloponnese, through the through the Vouraikos Gorge to Kalavryta. The journey is just 60 minutes, but the memory of it will last a lifetime.

what’s new 1 The 1,730km Peloponnese Hiking Trail will open between now and late October and will make the Peloponnese an all-year-round trekking destination.

Running through the rugged peninsula and connecting ancient Mycenae and Epidavros, it will take walkers through mountain villages, along coastal paths and past architectural sites. 2 Eight museums have recently opened, including the National Museum of Underwater Antiquities, Athens, highlighting Greece’s maritime heritage with over 2,500 exhibits; and Thessalonikeon Mitropolis, Thessaloniki – archaeological remains discovered when the city’s metro was built. The Tatoi Palace Museum, which is the former royal family summer home, will house recovered royal artifacts and opens in autumn.

“Greece’s islands are consistently in the top 10 destinations visited by Brits, with 2026 showing significant upsurge” 3 Many new hotels, including 61-suite Fouquet’s Mykonos, the first property to be opened in Greece by the prestige Barrière Group and OVEA Paros, on the outskirts of Naoussa, has 21 suites, all with their own pools. 4 The scaffolding around the Parthenon has been up for so long – 200 years, give or take – that it’s almost become part of the monument. But this summer, it will be finally be removed when the last phase of the restoration is completed. This is likely to drive more visitors to Athens.

Book it Sunvil’s 14-night Chios, Lesvos and Samos island-hopping itinerary costs from £2,340pp (two sharing), including return flights to Athens,B&B accommodation throughout, local flight connections or ferries and transfers throughout. sunvil.co.uk SELLINGTRAVEL.CO.UK

Focus On - Greek Islands v8.indd 39

Pictured: (From left) A bay on Chios (Alex Abazis); Ancient Greek ruins (Spencer Davis); Windmills on Chios (Vasiliki Mastropetrou)

39 30/08/2026 12:01

My journey

New York State There’s more than one apple that’s ripe for discovery in New York State, with its charming towns, family-run businesses and historical gems, says Sally Parker

t’s a beautiful morning and I am heading out early for a stroll on one of the ﬁve hiking trails that weave their way around Saratoga Spa State Park. I meander through trees and along the waterways, passing the odd dog walker as I go. It’s a great way to start the day. Visitors have been travelling to the area from the mid-1800s to bathe in and sample the waters in this beautiful state park. When people think of New York, they picture yellow cabs, Times Square and the Manhattan skyline. But, as I’m discovering, just a few miles away lies a completely different side of the state, with grand estates, vineyards, orchards, historic villages, forests, waterfalls and mountain resorts. Close to the city, and a ﬁrst stop after crossing The George Washington Bridge that takes visitors out of the “Big Apple”, is the Hudson Valley.

“When people think of New York they picture yellow cabs, Times Square and the Manhattan skyline” The family-owned and operated Harvest Moon Farm and Orchard in North Salem provides a wonderful introduction to rural New York. The farm shop stocks local produce and its Hardscrabble Cider is produced from MacIntosh apples grown on their 69 acre farm. Apples sneak their way into everything, including my sandwich.

homecoming At the Home of Franklin D. Roosevelt, I discover the estate he described as a place of “peace, strength and rest” – a retreat he returned to more than 200 times during his presidency. He and his wife, Eleanor, are buried in the rose garden, while the vegetable plots show that he practised what he preached,

40 My journey NYS v16.indd 40

encouraging Americans to grow their own food during the Great Depression (1929-1939). Next door, the Beatrix Farrand Garden at Bellefield celebrates the only female founder of the American Society of Landscape Architects, at a time in the late 19th century when women were not permitted to join college courses. Farrand designed a series of garden rooms, in different colours, which gradually narrow to draw you to the landscape beyond. The nearby Vanderbilt Mansion offers a glimpse into America’s Gilded Age (1870-1900). Built as the country retreat of railroad magnates Frederick and Louise Vanderbilt, it was donated to the National Park Service when the Great Depression made its upkeep impossible. The lavish mansion remains virtually unchanged. A winding road leads me to Mohonk Mountain House, a stunning, fairytalelike retreat in the Catskill Mountains, overlooking a glacial lake. It’s amazing to think that this huge property started as a 10-room inn on a trade route in 1869, and five generations later it is still owned and operated by the same Smiley family. I take a short walk along one side of the lake and am rewarded with views of the lake and surrounding forest. Artist Frederic Church spent 40 years creating the 250-acre Olana State Historic Site, positioning its buildings and landscape to make the most of the views across the Hudson Valley. The lake alone took 18 years to dig. I imagine the workers on their first day thinking, “Just 17 years and 364 days to go.”

spring into action A queue of locals wait to fill up their bottles and buckets with mineral waters from one of the 13 natural springs in Saratoga Spa State Park. Each has its own unique flavour and I fill my bottle from State Seal Spring. I’m less

Mohonk Mountain House

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New York State

Saratoga Springs in bloom

“Known as ‘America’s Crystal City’, Corning is a small town that has made a big impact on the modern world” convinced by some of the more metallic tasting ones and, on good advice, swerve Orenda Spring, known to have a laxative effect. Saratoga Springs is a lovely town to stop for a stroll around the independent shops, join a walking tour or visit the history museum. The visitor centre is a converted drinking hall, popular back in the day with those who wanted to sample something a bit stronger.

lightbulb moment My next stop is Corning’s historic Gaffer District, where the downtown streets are lined with independent shops and cafés. The district takes its name from the master glassblowers who have long been at the heart of the town’s glassmaking tradition. I start my walking tour at the Rockwell Museum, known for its collection of Western art. Facade sculpture is a local tradition, so weird and wonderful creations adorn the sides of many buildings. The star of the show is Artemis, the buffalo, who appears to be bursting out of the side of the museum. Known as “America’s Crystal City”, Corning is a small town that has had a big impact on the modern world. Among its many achievements, Corning Incorporated created Pyrex, helped SELLINGTRAVEL.CO.UK

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develop and mass-produce the glass used in Thomas Edison’s lightbulbs, and pioneered fibre-optic technology by developing ultra-thin glass fibres capable of transmitting light over long distances. The Corning Museum of Glass is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year with a series of exhibitions, including one exploring the role of women in glassmaking. The main museum showcases 3,500 years of glassmaking history, from ancient Egyptian artefacts to wacky contemporary installations – one depicting sausages is a favourite. I watch a live glassblowing demonstration in which a glowing ball of molten glass is miraculously transformed into a fluted bowl. At Vineyard View Winery, on the Keuka Lake Wine Trail in the Finger Lakes region, fifth-generation winemakers produce wines made with sustainably grown fruit from family-owned vineyards. For my grand finale, a Balloons Over Letchworth hot-air balloon reveals why Letchworth State Park is often called the “Grand Canyon of the East”, with its dramatic cliffs, dense forests and waterfalls carved by the Genesee River. My week-long adventure has delivered plenty of surprises and shown me why visitors should venture beyond the Big Apple to explore more of New York State.

Pictured: (clockwise from top left) The Middle Falls at Letchworth State Park in western New York (Ravi Chembula); Getting ready to board a Balloons Over Letchworth hot-air balloon ﬂight; Japanese primroses in Innisfree Garden; Glassblowing at the Corning Museum of Glass; Sally at Vineyard View Winery; Mohonk Lake and the historic Mohonk Mountain House resort in Ulster County, New York

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In conversation

Jesús Ruiz, Head of Sustainability, Accessibility and Impact, Spanish Tourist Office UK explains how Spain is working hard to make inclusion central to its tourism offering

“accessiblity is an integral part of the visitor experience”

famous UNESCO-listed festival, which has introduced pioneering initiatives including dedicated viewing areas for people with reduced mobility and “calm hours” for visitors with neurological and sensory conditions.

How is Spain addressing the issue of reliable accessibility information? More destinations, hotels, attractions and cultural venues are providing detailed accessibility information online. However, currently, there are numerous accessibility certiﬁcations and no universally recognised deﬁnition of what constitutes an “accessible” hotel. Addressing this issue is a priority for Spain’s accessibility advisory board. One of our main objectives is to promote greater consistency in accessibility standards and improve the quality of information available at the booking stage. This includes developing good-practice guidelines on the accessibility information that should be published on hotel websites,.

Looking ahead, what is your longterm vision for accessible tourism?

What has driven Spain’s commitment to accessibility and why now? For Spain, accessibility is about ensuring that everyone can travel with conﬁdence, independence and dignity. The Spain For All campaign reﬂects our commitment to making accessibility an integral part of the visitor experience. It is built on research showing that 86% of UK adults surveyed view Spain as a “very” or “quite” accessible destination.

Which initiatives do you think will have the biggest impact on visitors?

Pictured: (clockwise from above) Jesús Ruiz; A child in a wheelchair visiting the City of Arts and Sciences in Valencia; The Plaza de España in Seville

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The greatest impact comes from creating a fully connected and inclusive visitor journey. There is little value in having an accessible beach, museum or attraction if visitors cannot easily reach it. Some of Spain’s most successful destinations, such as Seville or Valencia demonstrate that progress depends on collaboration.

During our visit to Valencia for our Spain For All Advisory Panel meeting, we experienced ﬁrst-hand how accessible tourism can be delivered, from adapted beaches with amphibious wheelchairs to accessible boat trips on La Albufera. These experiences are supported by an accessible public transport network, creating a genuinely inclusive experience for visitors.

Our long-term vision is for Spain to become one of the world’s leading accessible tourism destinations, where inclusion is not treated as an add-on or specialist product. This will require continued investment in infrastructure, better accessibility standards, clearer information, and a commitment from the entire tourism industry. Ultimately, the goal is to empower visitors to make independent and conﬁdent travel decisions, while giving travel professionals greater certainty when recommending accommodation and experiences.

How is Spain supporting travellers with hidden disabilities? True accessibility means meeting the needs of travellers with cognitive impairments, sensory sensitivities, autism and other non-visible disabilities. We recently expanded our travel industry advisory panel to ensure stronger representation for people with hidden disabilities and neurodiverse needs. A notable example is Las Fallas in Valencia, the city’s worldSELLINGTRAVEL.CO.UK

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SEA YOU SOON. Nonstop ﬂights from UK to Türkiye

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