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Associations

IATA: January 2018 passenger traffic show lowest growth in 4 years

Alastair Newport Mar 9, 2018

After three years of some serious growth, the International Air Transport Association (IATA), has revealed global passenger traffic (revenue passenger kilometres or RPKs) results for…

Associations

TTC launches trade-centric online travel portal

Jill Sayles Jan 18, 2018

The Travel Corporation (TTC) has created an online initiative, My Travel Portal (MTP). MTP provides agents with a simplified solution for delivering the service of personalising client…

Associations

Research shows Brits’ resilience to travel is stronger in 2018

Jill Sayles Jan 18, 2018

Research by Destinations: the Holiday and Travel Show highlights British travellers’ resilience in the face of political unrest, natural disasters, the threat of terrorism and an unstable…

Associations

Aito domestic conference discusses challenges and opportunities for members

Jill Sayles Jan 8, 2018

The biggest challenges facing the independent tour operator and travel agent in 2018, as well as opportunities for the year ahead were discussed at Aito’s annual domestic conference. AITO…

Associations

Jerry Springer announced as speaker at Advantage conference

Jill Sayles Jan 8, 2018

Advantage Travel Partnership has announced Jerry Springer as the keynote speaker for its 2018 conference, being held in Miami, between 10 and 13 May 2018. He hosted the Jerry Springer…

Tourism

LATA reveals predictions for 2018

Jill Sayles Dec 29, 2017 16

Members of the Latin American Travel Association (LATA) have made predictions for this year. They have revealed forward booking statistics for 2018 showing positive growth in travel to…

Travel Agents

Where Else would you find 130 TA’s from 17 countries?

Alastair Newport Dec 29, 2017 23

The seventh edition of ‘Where Else’ conference is the official tourism conference held annually by the Israel Ministry of Tourism for the world travel industry. The week-long convention…

Tourism

Tax breaks for tourists to Thailand, given the go-ahead for 2018

Gary Marshall Dec 27, 2017 16

Tax breaks for tourism spending in secondary provinces from Jan 1 to Dec 31, 2018 will go before the cabinet today. The move is intended to distribute income to these provinces and make the…

Tourism

Tourism at the centre of Uttar Pradesh and South Korea new partnership

Alastair Newport Dec 25, 2017 18

The Uttar Pradesh government today signed a memorandum of understanding with South Korea to enhance cooperation in the field of tourism, skill development, culture and farming.

Associations

Sanya: China’s tropical city on target for record breaking numbers in 2017

Alastair Newport Dec 21, 2017 17

Sanya, China's top destination for island tourism, received a total of 620,000 inbound tourists by the end of November of 2017, representing year-on-year growth of 70 percent. The tropical…

Airlines and Aviation

Equip Global presents the Leading Operational Excellence in Airports Summit 2018

Alastair Newport Dec 21, 2017 16

In today’s fast paced travel environment, airport operations being increasingly complex require operational excellence across a broad and diverse set of capabilities and the management of…

Associations

Advantage uses the power of online for campaign

Jill Sayles Dec 19, 2017 20

Advantage Travel Partnership will run its turn of year promotional campaign to engage consumers with promotion-led offers during the key 2018 holiday booking period. For the first time,…

Tourism

TAT celebrates 130 years of Thai-Japanese relations with Bon Odori Festival

Alastair Newport Dec 19, 2017 17

The Biennial Bon Odori Festival this year marked 130 years of Thai-Japanese diplomatic relations, and joined in the celebrations under the action-packed Amazing Thailand Tourism Year 2018…

Associations

Bright announces 2018 roadshows

Jill Sayles Dec 18, 2017 11

BRIGHT (Bringing Real Information & Guaranteed High Quality Training) has announced details of its 14 road shows for 2018. Workshops and dinners for independent agents will be held in…

Associations

ABTA launches online training platform for sales staff

Jill Sayles Dec 14, 2017 1

ABTA has launched an online training platform aimed at supporting frontline sales staff in the travel industry. Designed by travel trade e-learning provider, Equator Learning, the ABTA…

Associations

MTDC: Why were 2500 horses transported to Maharashtra?

Alastair Newport Dec 11, 2017 17

Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation has organised Sarangkheda Chetak Festival 2017 from 3rd December 2017 to 2nd Jan 2018 to attract domestic and foreign tourists in Nandurbar…

Associations

ABTA responds to Brexit discussions

Jill Sayles Dec 8, 2017 16

Mark Tanzer, chief executive of ABTA the Travel Association has responded to the Brexit discussions: “Following today’s news that the Government will be moving to the next phase of…

Associations

ABTA launches online education and careers hub

Jill Sayles Dec 7, 2017 13

ABTA is launching www.abta.com/education, an online hub which offers a starting point for anyone interested in developing their career in the travel sector. The hub offers information on…

Airlines and Aviation

APAC leads Global Aviation Market: India stands out with 20% domestic growth

Alastair Newport Dec 6, 2017 10

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced global passenger traffic results for October showing that demand (measured in revenue passenger kilometres, or RPKs) rose 7.2…

Associations

AWTE raises £16,500 for charity at Xmas lunch

Jill Sayles Dec 5, 2017 15

At the annual AWTE Christmas lunch, £16,653 was raised for charity. The National Deaf Children’s Society was represented by Rachel Shenton who spoke about personal experience of being…

Associations

Lata reveals latest updates

Jill Sayles Dec 5, 2017 14

The Latin American Travel Association reveals its latest updates. Destination News Costa Rica records a rise in UK visitor numbers Costa Rica has recorded an increase in visitors…

Associations

UNWTO: Say hello to the new Special Ambassador of the International Year

Alastair Newport Dec 5, 2017 1

United Nations designated the year 2017 “International Year of Sustainable Tourism Development” and World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) plays a leading role to promote it. UNWTO and Sanrio…

Associations

How WeChat will prep Chinese for Dubai, UK and Australia with CityExperience

Alastair Newport Dec 5, 2017 19

WeChat has showcased its CityExperience Mini Program in partnership with Tourism Australia, VisitBritain and Dubai Tourism, aiming to enhance the overseas travel experience of WeChat users,…

Associations

MEGACITY BANGKOK: BKK’s most ambitious plans revealed at TTF 2018

Alastair Newport Dec 4, 2017 1

The Thailand Tourism Forum (TTF) will return for its seventh annual edition on January 22nd, 2018, gathering approximately 650 hotel industry professionals at the InterContinental Hotel…

Associations

Fourth Asia Super Team unveil overall winners and reveals MICE big data

Alastair Newport Dec 4, 2017 22

The fourth Asia Super Team competition, organized by the Bureau of Foreign Trade and executed by TAITRA, organized a major press event for the final at Taipei International Convention…

Associations

ABTA releases Bali volcano statement

Jill Sayles Nov 27, 2017 17

ABTA has released the following statement regarding the Bali volcano activity. We are closely monitoring the activity of volcano Mount Agung on the island of Bali, which is around 71…

Associations

British holiday-maker habits revealed

Jill Sayles Nov 27, 2017 19

British holiday-makers are planning to maintain or grow their travel plans over the next three years, according to a recent survey by AITO. The AITO Travel Insights Report 2017 found that…

Tourism

ITDC invites state tourist boards to unite in growth, profit and prosperity

Alastair Newport Nov 27, 2017 25

The Management of India Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC) invited State Tourism corporations and departments, from Pan India for a round table discussion to find possible solutions to…

Associations

Why Portugal is proving irresistible to Chinese travellers

Alastair Newport Nov 27, 2017 19

The Chinese tourist market in Portugal experienced steady growth this year. This growth is one of the reasons behind the importance of this year’s congress of the Portuguese Association of…

Associations

ICAO’s Dr. Fang Liu: “greater transparency is needed for social and economic benefits”

Alastair Newport Nov 23, 2017 21

ICAO Secretary General Dr. Fang Liu told ICAO member states yesterday that in order for them to safely and efficiently manage forecast growth, and optimize the social and economic benefits…

Associations

Discover The World of The Hunger Games experience

Jill Sayles Nov 22, 2017 16

The Hunger Games inspired attractions, rides, live entertainment show and themed shop and cafe in the fantastical world of Panem, has been recreated at Dubai Parks and Resorts. The World…

Tourism

Duterte, Chinese PM and Thailand support “deepening and broadening” of ASEAN commitment

Gary Marshall Nov 22, 2017 13

New levels of ASEAN-China tourism cooperation were lauded as a success and an indication of more to come, at the closing ceremony of the ASEAN-China Tourism Cooperation Year 2017, which took…

Associations

River Cruise Excellence Awards winners announced

Jill Sayles Nov 20, 2017 17

Those who contribute to the growing success of the river cruise industry were recently recognised at an awards ceremony at the seventh annual CLIA River Cruise Conference in Amsterdam.…

Associations

Reasons to be cheerful at this year’s Aito conference

Jill Sayles Nov 20, 2017 15

This year’s AITO overseas conference will take place in Evora, Portugal (23 to 26 November 2017) with the theme Reasons to be Cheerful. Sponsored by Tourismo de Portugal and TAP Air…

Associations

Women in travel: Who’s making a difference?

Jill Sayles Nov 17, 2017 20

Senior figures in the UK’s travel industry recently gathered for the announcement of the winners of the inaugural everywoman in Travel Awards. The ceremony, which celebrated the…

OTAs & Tour Operators

Klook: How ‘Yurutabi’ brings over 1 million Japanese to HK

Alastair Newport Nov 15, 2017 13

Klook the attractions, tours, and activities booking platform recently formed a partnership with Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) to kick off a series of marketing campaigns to…

Tourism

Why Indian tourists can’t get enough of Israel

Alastair Newport Nov 14, 2017 4

Israel, for the second consecutive year has broken its tourism record in India along with reaching a whopping 3 million tourists arrival mark this year. More than 49,000 Indians have already…

Hotels

SATA 2017: Poetree Sarovar Portico wins “Leading Romantic Resort in South Asia”

Alastair Newport Nov 9, 2017 5

Poetree Sarovar Portico Thekkady wins the laurel of Leading Romantic Resort/Hotel in South India at SATA 2017 (South Asian Travel Awards). The award was received by Shri R. Reghunath,…

Associations

WTM 2017: Terracotta Army storms into London

Alastair Newport Nov 8, 2017 8

On November 6, 2017 at 10:00 a.m., a Terracotta Warrior Flashmob event organized by the Shaanxi Provincial Tourism Development Commission was held at the World Travel Market London. 50…

Airlines and Aviation

AsBAA applauds Macau government’s policy shift

Alastair Newport Nov 7, 2017 20

AsBAA, Asia’s non-profit representative trade body for business and general aviation, took a lead at the Macau Business Aviation Exhibition (MBAE2017) with announcements that there will be…

Associations

Advantage restructures senior team

Jill Sayles Nov 2, 2017 0

Advantage Travel Partnership has restructured its senior team. Paula Lacey is now Group Commercial & Membership Director; Neil Armorgie is appointed as Global Product Director…

Associations

Travel Counsellors reveals Joanna Lumley as conference speaker

Jill Sayles Nov 1, 2017 0

TV actress and travel presenter Joanna Lumley has been revealed as this year’s guest speaker at Travel Counsellors’ annual conference. Lumley will share her insights on how to build…

Associations

Aito welcomes investigation into online hotel booking sites

Jill Sayles Nov 1, 2017 16

The Association of Independent Tour Operators (AITO) says it welcomes the investigation - announced 27 October, 2017 - to be undertaken by the Competition & Markets Authority (CMA) into…

Associations

Miami advice from Advantage

Jill Sayles Oct 30, 2017 13

Advantage Travel Partnership has revealed the theme for its 2018 conference, being held in Miami, between 10 and 13 May 2018, will be ‘The Next Chapter… Miami Advice’. The two programmes…

Associations

“We are headed for a major infrastructure crisis” IATA warns Assembly of Presidents

Alastair Newport Oct 26, 2017 9

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) called for urgent action to address the challenges of infrastructure, regulatory harmonization and sustainability.

Tourism

Disney’s record smashing attraction ‘Marvel’s Avengers S.T.A.T.I.O.N’ hits Oz

Alastair Newport Oct 24, 2017 20

Cityneon Holdings Limited has revealed today the Minister for Tourism and Major Events - Victorian Government, The Hon. John Eren MP; The Walt Disney Company Australia/New Zealand managing…

Cruise

Korea welcomed as new member of the Asia Cruise Cooperation

Alastair Newport Oct 23, 2017 44

Hainan Provincial Tourism Development Commission, Hong Kong Tourism Board, Philippine Department of Tourism, the Taiwan Tourism Bureau, and Xiamen Municipal Tourism Development Commission…

HR & Careers

Daring new partnership preps SG’s travel agents for the future

Alastair Newport Oct 23, 2017 0

EASB (East Asia Institute of Management), a fully-owned subsidiary of the EASB Education Group and NATAS (National Association of Travel Agents Singapore) jointly announced a strategic…

Tourism

Eco Expo Asia: What are the advantages of eco-vehicles?

Alastair Newport Oct 19, 2017 19

The 12th Eco Expo Asia will be held from 26-29 October at the AsiaWorld-Expo. Organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) and Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd, and co-organised by…

Associations

What have Chinese companies learnt about client facing travel?

Alastair Newport Oct 19, 2017 16

The CITS American Express Global Business Travel 2017 China Business Travel Survey (the Barometer) has revealed that 31 percent of Chinese companies expect travel budgets to rise over the…

Tourism

UNWTO/PATA: focused on the challenges of sustainable tourism

Alastair Newport Oct 18, 2017 18

The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) and the People’s Government of Guilin of China held the 11th UNWTO/PATA Forum on Tourism Trends and Outlook…

Tourism

Does Sri Lanka have what the GCC want?

Alastair Newport Oct 18, 2017 15

Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau is set to launch a promotional road show that will see a delegation of Sri Lanka Tourism officials, as well as Sri Lanka’s leading hotels and tourism…

Associations

Tourism Alliance calls on Government to cut red tape

Jill Sayles Oct 17, 2017 16

Tourism Alliance is calling on the Government to cut EU red tape with a policy change which it says could generate an additional £2.2billion in expenditure, create 40,000 new jobs and reduce…

Tourism

PATA determined to make Vanuatu a success

Alastair Newport Oct 17, 2017 16

The inaugural Pacific Tourism Insights Conference (PTIC), which takes place in Port Vila, Vanuatu on Wednesday, October 25, is set to address key opportunities and challenges facing the…

Associations

Advantage to host turn of year training

Jill Sayles Oct 16, 2017 19

The Advantage Travel Partnership membership team have partnered with Reality Training to host the Frontliners sales workshops. To be held in six regional cities, across November and…

Tourism

Europe and Chinese unite ‘to promote the development of China’

Alastair Newport Oct 16, 2017 6

The European Commission-funded Partnerships in European Tourism project will arrive in Beijing at the China Outbound Travel & Tourism Market in April 2018 – marking the first of a series…

Associations

Advantage announces hotel hero of the year

Jill Sayles Oct 13, 2017 16

Anna-Marie Binns of CJL Travel was named Hotel Hero of the Year at the annual Advantage Hotel Hero Conference in recognition of her support for hotel bookings and her clients. Nearly 100…

Associations

ABTA responds to holiday sickness claims call for evidence

Jill Sayles Oct 13, 2017 17

ABTA has released a statement following the Government’s Call for Evidence to help drive the crackdown on the holiday sickness claims culture: “ABTA strongly welcomes the Call for…

Associations

FHA wins fundraising team award

Jill Sayles Oct 13, 2017 16

The Family Holiday Association (FHA) were announced as the Fundraising Team of the Year at the Charity Times Awards 2017. The awards entry focussed on the charity’s successful 40th…

Associations

Agents enjoy jeep safari in the Azores

Jill Sayles Oct 13, 2017 0

TIPTO members Bourne Leisure, Super Break and This is Shearings organised a sunset safari jeep tour with bespoke itinerary for their agent friends during ABTA’s Travel Convention 2017. …

Associations

The Global Travel Group hosts Asia fam trip

Jill Sayles Oct 13, 2017 17

The Global Travel Group’s recently hosted a fam trip to Singapore and Malaysia sponsored by Travel 2 and Gold Medal. Seven The Global Travel Group agents enjoyed the view from…

Associations

PATA reveal the secret to growth hacking

Alastair Newport Oct 13, 2017 13

The 9th PATAcademy-HCD, under the theme ‘Growth Hacking - How to Scale Your Business Exponentially', takes place at the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) Engagement Hub in Bangkok,…

Appointments

Dr Mario Hardy agrees to stay at PATA

Alastair Newport Oct 12, 2017 15

The executive board of the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) has extended the contract of chief executive officer Dr Mario Hardy for a period of three years commencing January 1, 2018.

Associations

Seville to host ABTA convention next year

Jill Sayles Oct 12, 2017 15

ABTA has revealed the location of its travel convention next year which will take place from October 8-10 in Seville, Spain. It will be held at the five-star Barceló Sevilla…

Associations

Airbnb joins forces with PATA on the sharing economy

Alastair Newport Oct 11, 2017 19

Airbnb is the latest hospitality sector organisation to join the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA).

Associations

Monarch collapse: ABTA addresses ATOL consumer protection

Jill Sayles Oct 11, 2017 10

At this year's Travel Convention in the Azores, Mark Tanzer, ABTA chief executive, addressed around 500 delegates with views on ATOL consumer protection. He said: “There’s a common…

Associations

Online bookers prefer using mobile

Jill Sayles Oct 10, 2017 19

Growth in bookings on mobile devices is thought to be behind an increase in overall online holiday bookings. Online bookings have increased from 76% to 83% in the last 12 months,…

Associations

Public look to travel professionals to book holidays

Jill Sayles Oct 10, 2017 14

Research from ABTA released at the association's travel convention taking place in Ponta Delgada, Azores, reveals that four in ten (38%) have used the services of a travel professional to…

Associations

Families and over-65s are top holiday-takers

Jill Sayles Oct 10, 2017 18

Families are taking more holidays than people without children at home, according to ABTA’s Holiday Habits Report 2017. People with older families took 4.5 holidays in the last…

Associations

Brits take more holidays in past 12 months than at any point since 2011

Jill Sayles Oct 10, 2017 0

New research from ABTA reveals that the average number of holidays taken per person per year has grown to 3.8, an increase of 0.4 on last year. This is the highest number of holidays…

Associations

Filipinos encouraged to ‘Bring Home a Friend’

Alastair Newport Oct 10, 2017 24

The Philippines Department of Tourism (PDOT) has launched “Bring Home A Friend” (BHAF) program, a campaign that aims to encourage all Filipinos residing in the Philippines and abroad to help…

Associations

Agents from Cox and Kings, Mark Warner and Sunvil gather for Bright workshop

Jill Sayles Oct 9, 2017 20

The first of its autumn workshops was recently held by Bright in Winchester at The Mercure. Thirty five independent travel agents from 19 agencies as well as Home Workers attended…

Tourism

Asia dominates World’s 50 Best Bar awards

Alastair Newport Oct 9, 2017 9

The World’s 50 Bars announced its highly anticipated list and awards at a live ceremony in London, at the end of last week. The rankings are created by the votes of an academy with over 500…

Associations

Amadeus encourages accessible travel for everyone

Alastair Newport Oct 6, 2017 17

Amadeus' new study outlines how greater personalisation, universal standards in the provision of services, more effective communication and increased collaboration between public and private…

Tourism

PATA Global Insights Conference: the future of tourism

Alastair Newport Oct 6, 2017 16

The annual PATA Global Insights Conference was once again a resounding success with nearly 200 delegates hearing from high profile speakers representing major international brands such as…

Associations

Advantage Profit Protection Plan is published ahead of PSD2

Jill Sayles Oct 5, 2017 18

Advantage Travel Partnership has published a 12-page Profit Protection Plan for its members – a direct reaction to the upcoming change in law that will require retailers to absorb charges…

Associations

TIPTO helps agents secure Orlando bookings worth over £30,000

Jill Sayles Oct 4, 2017 10

Steph Borys and Hannah Gifford from Newells Travel, Truro, have both made high worth Orlando bookings this summer following attendance at TIPTO’s Cornwall roadshow. The family…

Airlines and Aviation

THAI Wins Best Inflight Food 2017 from IFSA

Alastair Newport Oct 4, 2017 0

Mr. Areepong Bhoocha-oom, chairman of the board of directors for Thai Airways International Public Company Limited (THAI), was joined on stage by Mrs. Usanee Sangsingkeo, THAI acting…

Associations

PATA’s partnership with data experts STR

Alastair Newport Oct 4, 2017 15

STR a data benchmarking and analytics specialist, has renewed its preferred partnership with the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), a not-for-profit membership association that acts as…

Airlines and Aviation

ANA Holdings named “Airline Industry Leader”

Alastair Newport Oct 4, 2017 0

ANA Holdings (ANA HD) has announced it has been selected as a member of 2017 Dow Jones Sustainability World Index (DJSI World).

Associations

Research reveals increase in consumer recognition of ABTA

Jill Sayles Sep 28, 2017 16

New research reveals that positive consumer recognition of ABTA has increased slightly in the past 12 months. Almost three quarters (74%) of the public recognise the logo,…

Associations

Advantage gets muddy for Just a Drop

Jill Sayles Sep 27, 2017

A team from the Advantage Travel Partnership has completed the Tough Mudder challenge, raising £4,200 for Just a Drop as a result. The amount was almost doubled the original target of…

Associations

LATA appoints new chairman

Jill Sayles Sep 25, 2017

Colin Stewart has been elected as the new chairman of the Latin American Travel Association (LATA). His appointment as chairman was voted for by the LATA committee. Stewart is an…

Associations

Final push for BTA votes

Jill Sayles Sep 21, 2017

Consumer voting in the 2017 British Travel Awards will close on September 30, meaning companies nominated for an award have just a few more weeks to lobby for votes. Votes have been…

Associations

TIPTO unveils new website

Jill Sayles Sep 21, 2017

TIPTO has unveiled its new look website where agents will experience a more sophisticated homepage display with key areas highlighted to prioritise information that is important to them.…

Associations

AWTE announces chair awards winners

Jill Sayles Sep 13, 2017

Five women were added to the Most Influential Women in Travel list at the annual AWTE Chair Awards which took place yesterday at the Radisson Edwardian Hampshire in Leicester Square, London.…

Associations

Inaugaural meeting for new business aviation body

Michael Mackey Sep 8, 2017

The Asian Business Aviation Association, (AsBAA) the region's non-for-profit representative trade body for business aviation hosted its first Singapore Committee meeting under the leadership…

Airlines and Aviation

Passenger growth strong but moderating – IATA

Michael Mackey Sep 7, 2017

Global passenger traffic results for July showing strong but moderating demand growth, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) said in a statement. Total revenue passenger…

Associations

Phuket Launches “Hearts With Hands, Keep Phuket Clean”

Michael Mackey Sep 7, 2017

The Phuket Hotels Association is encouraging locals and tourists to support a Hearts with Hands, Keep Phuket Clean beach clean up event on the morning of Saturday 16th September 2017 The…

Associations

VBRATA UK launches the London Caipirinha Festival with event for travel trade

Jill Sayles Aug 29, 2017

VBRATA UK (Visit Brazil Travel & Cultural Association) has announced the launch for the first edition of the annual London Caipirinha Festival in partnership with the Embassy of Brazil…

Associations

AWTE announces 2017 Chair Awards shortlist

Jill Sayles Aug 25, 2017

Nominations for the AWTE Chair Awards - a celebration of women working in the travel industry - have been announced. Taking place on September 12, there are three awards within…

Associations

Estimated 2.1 million Brits to head overseas this weekend

Jill Sayles Aug 24, 2017

ABTA is estimating that 2.1 million Brits are set to head abroad this bank holiday weekend (25 -28 August). With temperatures around the Mediterranean expected to hit the low thirties…

Associations

TIPTO welcomes Cosmos and Avalon

Jill Sayles Aug 23, 2017

TIPTO has started its 19th year of operation with the addition of new supplier member, Cosmos. The tour operator as well as sister brand Avalon Waterways, will join the trade…

Associations

Animal activists protest Thomas Cook’s SeaWorld promotions

Jill Sayles Aug 21, 2017

PETA recently unfurled a giant banner reading - Thomas Cook: SeaWorld Kills - above the travel company's headquarters in central London. The action is part of the group's ongoing efforts…

Associations

Agto appoints new board directors

Jill Sayles Aug 21, 2017

The Association of Group Travel Organisers (AGTO) has appointed two new directors to sit on its board. The newly elected directors are Emma McMillan, groups & affinities manager,…

Associations

CTI announces new chairman

Jill Sayles Aug 21, 2017

CTI, a corporate travel management company, has announced the appointment of John McEwan as chairman. McEwan has formerly held roles including managing director at Thomas Cook, ABTA…

Associations

Tributes flood in for Ande Soteri

Jill Sayles Aug 21, 2017

Following the sudden recent passing of Ande Soteri who had worked in the travel industry for many years and was director of the Institute of Travel and Tourism (ITT), colleagues and friends…

Associations

ABTA releases latest statement on Spain attacks

Jill Sayles Aug 18, 2017

ABTA has released the following statement on the recent attacks in Spain: “Following a terrorist attack in the Las Ramblas area of central Barcelona and in Cambrils, holidaymakers in…

Associations

WTTC statement following attacks in Barcelona and Cambrils

Jill Sayles Aug 18, 2017

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) strongly condemns the attacks in Barcelona and Cambrils, Spain on 17/18 August 2017. Gloria Guevara, President & CEO, WTTC, said: “I am…

Associations

Reality Training to deliver sales tips at cruise conference

Jill Sayles Aug 17, 2017

Advantage Travel Partnership has recruited Bob Morrell and Jeremy Blake of Reality Training, to speak at its cruise conference onboard P&O Cruises’ Ventura, taking place from October…

Associations

ABTA reveals top gap year destinations

Jill Sayles Aug 17, 2017

ABTA has revealed the most popular destinations and activities for gap years. The association also advises young people on how to make the most of their year as well as how to remain safe…

Associations

Trade group formed to help destinations promote tourism

Jill Sayles Aug 10, 2017

A new trade association has been set up to help promote new, emerging and established destinations to develop their tourism industries worldwide. The London-based Association for…

Associations

Speakers announced for The Travel Convention

Jill Sayles Aug 10, 2017

Further speakers have been announced for this year’s Travel Convention. James McClure, general manager, Northern Europe, Airbnb; Dominic Tucker, head of sales UK&I, Norwegian; and…

Associations

Aito tour operators urged to back specialist agents in connection with PSD2

Jill Sayles Aug 8, 2017

AITO says it has been discussing at length and in great detail (since March 2017), the problem of the coming Payment Services Directive 2. AITO’s Council agreed that Sam Clark…

Associations

PortAventura World named as best theme park in Europe

Jill Sayles Aug 7, 2017

PortAventura World has been named the best theme park in Europe in the 2017 edition of the World of Parks Awards. More than 35,000 readers participated in the online vote to choose…

Associations

TIPTO and its agents exceed fundraising record for Reuben’s Retreat

Jill Sayles Aug 4, 2017

TIPTO has smashed its previous fundraising record for its charity partner, Reuben’s Retreat. Over the course of the year, the organisation has raised £2,900 across 32 roadshow events.…

Face‑to‑Face

Q&A: Sarah Clayton-Turner, Chair, AWTE

Jill Sayles Aug 1, 2017

Have you settled into your new role as Chair at AWTE; what does it involve? I’ve been in the new role at AWTE for three months, so I think it’s fair to say I’m feeling more settled in…

Associations

ABTA gives statement on FCO Tunisia travel advice

Jill Sayles Jul 26, 2017

ABTA has released a statement on the change to the FCO travel advice for Tunisia. “The Foreign & Commonwealth Office has changed its level of advice to Tunisia and no longer…

Associations

Explore Abroad and Grosvenor Travel celebrate completing Global Travel Group’s training course

Jill Sayles Jul 25, 2017

Global Travel Group members, Explore Abroad and Grosvenor Travel, celebrate completing the consortium’s two-week training course for new members which covers everything from administration…

Associations

SACEOS reveals new marcoms committee

Mark Elliott Jul 25, 2017

Ahead of the Singapore MICE Forum 2017, SACEOS Marketing Communications Committee chairperson, Rosalind Ng, has appointed El Kwang of Biz Events Asia as the co-chairperson alongside a…

Associations

Brits choose island life this summer according to Advantage

Jill Sayles Jul 17, 2017

Brits are choosing island life for their summer holidays with the Balearics taking the top spot this year. One in six travel agents have picked out Majorca as their customers’…

Associations

The Global Travel Group hosts Global Advisory Panel race night

Jill Sayles Jul 14, 2017

The Global Travel Group’s managing director, Andy Stark, hosted the company’s Global Advisory Panel of agents to say thanks for their ongoing support at an evening of horseracing at Chester…

Associations

ABTA welcomes Government’s move to crackdown on false holiday sickness claims

Jill Sayles Jul 13, 2017

Following an announcement on Sunday 9 July that the Government will be taking action to tackle false sickness claims, ABTA is urging the industry to maintain momentum on the…

OTAs & Tour Operators

Trafalgar educates agents at TIPTO’s Edinburgh roadshow

Jill Sayles Jul 12, 2017

TIPTO recently held a roadshow at the Radisson Blu in Edinburgh. Pictured at the event are Cheryl Notman, Elaine Marshall, Claire Lees and Kelly McVey, all from Thomson Glenrothes.…

Associations

ETOA forecasts a hot summer for inbound tourism to the UK

Jill Sayles Jul 7, 2017

By Róisín Donnelly, head of accommodation services at the European Tour Operators Association (ETOA). The London market, according to ETOA members, has had a strong start to the…

Associations

Bright heads to Chester for last event this summer

Jill Sayles Jul 7, 2017

Fifty three Independent travel agents from 28 agencies as well as Home Workers attended BRIGHT’s, (Bringing Real Information & Guaranteed High Quality Training), last event before the…

Associations

ABTA welcomes 11 new members and four new partners

Jill Sayles Jul 7, 2017

From April-June 2017, 11 members and four new partners joined ABTA, with five dual Members, two retail members and four trading as a principal. Between them, the members offer travel…

Associations

CostSaver launches inaugural USA, Canada and Latin America programme

Maria Airey Jun 30, 2017

CostSaver, operated by Trafalgar, is launching trips to the USA, Canada and Latin America for UK travellers in 2018. The CostSaver product allows guests to travel to long haul destinations…

Associations

Advantage Travel Partnership joins forces with WorkAdvisor

Jill Sayles Jun 29, 2017

Advantage Travel Partnership has entered into partnership with WorkAdvisor, the travel recruitment and employer review provider. The deal gives Advantage’s members access to reduced…

AWTE Benevolent celebrates 50 years at the House of Lords

Jill Sayles Jun 29, 2017

On Thursday, June 22, the AWTE Benevolent, the Association’s Helping Hand celebrated 50 years of supporting AWTE members at a special lunch at the House of Lords. Peer and lunch host,…

Appointments

ABTA announces board changes following annual general meeting

Jill Sayles Jun 29, 2017

Following its Annual General Meeting held on June 28, ABTA announced changes to its board of directors for the year beginning July 1, 2017. Two new appointments have been made to the…

Appointments

Abtot grows team ahead of PTR changes

Jill Sayles Jun 28, 2017

The Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust (ABTOT) has added to its membership support team as new bonding services are introduced. The appointment of a new Membership Secretary,…

Associations

everywoman launches travel awards

Jill Sayles Jun 27, 2017

This year marks the launch of the inaugural everywoman in Travel Awards, now open for nominations and searching for the most exceptional women working within the UK’s travel industry. …

Associations

ABTA launches MP lobbying tool as part of Stop Sickness Scams campaign

Jill Sayles Jun 27, 2017

As part of its Stop Sickness Scams campaign, ABTA has launched a tool for travel industry businesses and members of the public to email their local MP, urging MPs to support the campaign and…

Associations

Travel Counsellors ‘pack for a purpose’ during Gold celebrations in Jamaica

Jill Sayles Jun 27, 2017

A group of over 70 Travel Counsellors recently celebrated their Gold status with the company during a trip to the five-star Half Moon resort in Jamaica. Whilst enjoying activities…

Family Holiday Association’s annual Seaside Walk Week returns

Jill Sayles Jun 26, 2017

Seaside Walk Week is the Family Holiday Association’s annual week of walks encouraging the nation to explore the Great British coastline with family and friends from Saturday 22 July to…

Associations

UKinbound announces partnership with Shaw Trust

Jill Sayles Jun 23, 2017

UKinbound announced a charity partnership with Shaw Trust at its annual Summer Ball. Taking place at The Hurlingham Club in London, the ball was attended by key figures from across the…

Airlines and Aviation

Asian aviation outlook “remains positive”

Mark Elliott Jun 22, 2017

Airlines based in the Asia Pacific region carried a combined total of 25.2 million international passengers in May 2017, up 5.4% year-on-year. According to the latest data from the…

Associations

ABTA calls on trade to back false holiday sickness claims campaign

Jill Sayles Jun 21, 2017

ABTA has launched its political and consumer-facing campaign, Stop Sickness Scams. Stop Sickness Scams calls on the new Government to crackdown on fake holiday sickness claims and warns…

Travel Counsellors launches in-house learning and development platform

Jill Sayles Jun 19, 2017

Travel Counsellors has developed and launched an in-house learning and professional development platform for its global network and support team. Named ‘Coach’, the international system…

Face‑to‑Face

Face to Face: Paul Fakley, ABTOT

Maria Airey Jun 16, 2017

Travel Daily sits down with Paul Fakley, Development Director, ABTOT What differentiates you from your competitors? ABTOT is a unique association in the UK travel market. We work primarily…

Advantage reveals accounts report

Jill Sayles Jun 15, 2017

The consolidated Report and Accounts for the financial year 1 October 2015 to 30 September 2016 have been reported by Advantage Travel Centres Ltd. The accounts, which have been audited…

ABTA comments on mobile roaming charges

Jill Sayles Jun 15, 2017

Regarding the EU-level agreement to end mobile roaming charges which is in to force from 15 June 2017, ABTA says it wants to ensure this agreement remains in place once we leave the EU,…

Global Travel Group member opens retail shop in West Yorkshire

Jill Sayles Jun 15, 2017

Global Travel Group member, Jo Richards, opened her first retail shop on the high street in Mirfield, West Yorkshire this week. The consortium’s sales business development manager,…

Q&A – Hisham Mahmoud – Bright Chairman

Jill Sayles Jun 12, 2017

What is Bright about and how did it start? The Bright idea was conceived at a conference in Spain 15 years ago. Four suppliers were sitting around the hotel lounge talking about how cost…

TIPTO announces final roadshow and supershow dates for 2017

Jill Sayles Jun 9, 2017

TIPTO has announced the dates and locations of its final Face 2 Face with TIPTO Roadshows and remaining SuperShow of 2017. Agents still have the opportunity to join the following events:…

ABTA releases limited number of tickets for Travel Matters

Jill Sayles Jun 8, 2017

ABTA is releasing a limited number of tickets to its annual Travel Matters policy conference. This is in response to demand for places at the historically invitation-only event.…

ITT Conference sells out

Jill Sayles Jun 6, 2017

This year's ITT Conference is now sold out, with 400 members and their companions who will attend the event from 12-14 June in Sorrento, Italy. The three-day event will include two…

Associations

BRIGHT hosts agents in Norwich

Jill Sayles Jun 2, 2017

Twenty nine independent travel agents from 17 agencies as well as home workers attended BRIGHT’s, (Bringing Real Information & Guaranteed High Quality Training), most recent…

James Villas awards £3000 to winner of The BIG Villa Giveaway

Jill Sayles Jun 1, 2017

TIPTO member James Villa Holidays awards its ‘The BIG Villa Giveaway’ incentive winner, Victoria Hollings of Hays Travel in Darlington, with her vouchers worth £3000. Pictured is Ryan…

ETOA pushes for faster digital travel legislation

Jill Sayles Jun 1, 2017

Technology and its ever-evolving usage has transformed the visitor economy in recent years. It has altered the way travellers research, book and enjoy their experiences, as well as…

Make Holidays Greener returns for 2017

Jill Sayles May 31, 2017

Make Holidays Greener is returning for 2017, led by ABTA in partnership with Travelife for Hotels & Accommodations. This year’s campaign will launch on 1 July and will encourage…

Associations

The Advantage Conference 2017: Man and Machine

Maria Airey May 15, 2017

This year's Advantage Travel Partnership Conference, held in Nice, tackled some difficult questions about the role of tech in the travel industry and how its growing value might effect…

Associations

London Stock Exchange endorses Advantage Travel Partnership

Maria Airey May 13, 2017

Advantage Travel Partnership has been identified as one of London Stock Exchange’s 1000 Companies to Inspire Britain - a report that celebrates the best of the UK’s fastest-growing and most…

Human Resources

CLIA opens membership to Asian agents

Mark Elliott May 5, 2017

Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has started allowing Asian travel agents to join its membership and accreditation programme. At an event in Jakarta yesterday, held in…

Tourism

Parents hit with rise in cost of school travel

Maria Airey May 4, 2017

Parents are being hit with increased prices on school travel due to the weakened GBP according to members of ABTOT, the Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust. ABTOT’s latest…

Associations

World tourism chief calls for sustainability focus

Aaron Greenwood Apr 26, 2017

David Scowsill, the president & CEO of the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), has called on the travel and tourism sector to lead the world in the “eradication of poverty,…

VisitEngland announces Awards for Excellence winners

Aaron Greenwood Apr 25, 2017

VisitEngland has celebrated the best of English tourism, announcing the winners of its Awards for Excellence for 2017. The awards, now in their 28th year, celebrate those businesses…

Tourism

Alain St Ange vows sustainable future for tourism

Mark Elliott Apr 19, 2017

The global tourism industry will soon have a new leader, with seven candidates bidding to become the next Secretary-General of the UN World Tourism Organization. Talking to Travel Daily…

VisitEngland launches new edition of ‘The Pink Book’

Aaron Greenwood Apr 16, 2017

VisitEngland has launched the latest version of The Pink Book, a guide designed to give English accommodation providers an overview of their legal obligations. Now in its ninth edition,…

AA to manage VisitEngland’s quality assessment schemes

Aaron Greenwood Apr 10, 2017

The AA has been awarded the contract to run the VisitEngland Quality Assessment Schemes under licence for the next three years. VisitEngland chief executive Sally Balcombe said: “I…

ASAP appoints new deputy chairman

Aaron Greenwood Apr 10, 2017

ASAP – the not-for-profit trade body for the serviced apartment sector - has announced that Stuart Winstone, commercial director of SilverDoor, has been appointed as the new Deputy Chairman…

Airlines and Aviation

TAAI happy with Air India commission agreement

Mark Elliott Apr 5, 2017

The Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI) has said it is pleased with Air India’s agreement to pay commissions to Indian IATA-affiliated travel agencies for their ticket sales.…

ABTA sets out priorities for Brexit negotiations for travel and tourism

Aaron Greenwood Apr 4, 2017

Following the triggering of Article 50, ABTA - the Travel Association, is setting out priorities for the Brexit negotiations in a new report “Making a Success of Brexit for Travel and…

UKinbound highlights Brexit priorities in letter to Government

Aaron Greenwood Apr 3, 2017

With Article 50 now triggered, UKinbound, the tourism trade association, has written to the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, Karen Bradley, highlighting the key priorities…

Associations

Registrations open for The Travel Convention 2017

Aaron Greenwood Apr 3, 2017

Registration for the Travel Convention is now open with a discounted Early Bird registration fee available to delegates. This year’s event will take place in The Azores from 9-11 October.…

AWTE to launch first chapter outside the UK

Aaron Greenwood Apr 3, 2017

The Association of Women Travel Executives (AWTE) will launch its Irish Chapter next Tuesday (11 April) at the Morrison Hotel in Dublin. The event will mark the association’s first…

Tourism

Lithuania reports rise in UK visitors

Aaron Greenwood Mar 25, 2017

The number of British tourists visiting Lithuania increased by 7.6 percent in 2016, according to government statistics. More than 58,000 British holidaymakers visited the destination…

Associations

都英心竞选世界旅游组织总秘书

Mark Elliott Mar 19, 2017

来自韩国的都英心女士（Young shim Dho）将加入另外6名竞选者之列，竞选下一届联合国世界旅游组织（UNWTO）总秘书一职。都女士目前任职联合国世界旅游组织可持续发展旅游消除贫困基金负责人一职，以前曾经担任过韩国旅游年的组委会主席。…

VisitBritain launches search for America’s biggest EPL fan

Aaron Greenwood Mar 17, 2017

VisitBritain has launched a competition to find America’s biggest Premier League fan and send them on a dream trip to the UK to attend a Premier League football match. The competition…

Human Resources

Korean woman stands for UNWTO top job

Mark Elliott Mar 17, 2017

South Korea's Young-shim Dho is one of seven candidates in line to become the UN World Tourism Organization’s new secretary-general. Ms Dho is currently the chair of the UNWTO's…

Hotels

Airbnb and Bermuda sign tourism agreement

Aaron Greenwood Mar 15, 2017

The Bermuda Tourism Authority and Airbnb have signed a major agreement that will help to promote Bermuda as a world-class destination for leisure, group travel and tourism investment.…

ABTA launches ‘Best use of ABTA branding’ award for 2017

Gemma Greenwood Mar 13, 2017

ABTA is launching its ‘Best use of ABTA branding’ award for 2017. The award is open to any travel agent ABTA Member and the winner will be announced at the Travel Brit Awards in July.…

Associations

VisitEngland announces Awards for Excellence finalists

Gemma Greenwood Mar 13, 2017

VisitEngland has announced the finalists for the Awards for Excellence 2017, the most prestigious awards in English tourism. The Awards, now in their 28th year, recognise and…

Airlines and Aviation

Japan urged to prepare airports for Olympic surge

Mark Elliott Mar 10, 2017

IATA has called on the Japanese government to prepare the country’s airport infrastructure for the 2020 Olympics. The country has set aggressive targets for increasing its international…

Human Resources

PATA boosts tourism training in the Maldives

Mark Elliott Mar 9, 2017

The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) is helping the Maldives to improve the skills of its tourism workforce by hosting a series of HR workshops in the country. The association…

Tourism

Asia to attract half a billion visitors per year

Mark Elliott Mar 7, 2017

More than half a billion people will travel to destinations in Asia every year by 2021, a new report has predicted. In its latest tourism forecast, the Pacific Asia Travel Association…

ABTA supports UK’s new Counter Terrorism Policing campaign

Gemma Greenwood Mar 6, 2017

The Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA) is supporting the Counter Terrorism Policing’s campaign ‘Make Nothing Happen’. This is the first public facing campaign from the…

Scottish tourism on the rise

Aaron Greenwood Mar 3, 2017

The Association of Scottish Visitor Attractions (ASVA) has announced that visits to its member sites rose notably for the third year running in 2016. ASVA, which represents the…

Associations

WTM announces partnership with Global Wellness

Aaron Greenwood Feb 28, 2017

The World Travel Market portfolio of events and the Global Wellness Institute have agreed upon a strategic partnership, which will start at Arabian Travel Market (24-27 April) in Dubai.…

UKinbound chooses Cardiff for 2018 Annual Convention

Gemma Greenwood Feb 10, 2017

UKinbound has confirmed that its next Annual Convention will take place in Cardiff, from 7th – 9th February 2018. Following the success of this year’s Annual Convention in Plymouth,…

Voting opens for England’s Tourism Superstar 2017

Aaron Greenwood Feb 6, 2017

Voting is now open to decide the winner of VisitEngland's Tourism Superstar 2017. The competition, run by VisitEngland and supported by The Daily Mirror, features 10 shortlisted…

Associations

DWTC wins bids to host nine new international congresses

Gemma Greenwood Feb 1, 2017

Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) has won a strategic bid to host nine new international congresses at the venue from 2017 – 2021, adding to its already robust calendar of confirmed events…

Tourism

Tourism bodies denounce US travel restrictions

Mark Elliott Feb 1, 2017

Several major tourism bodies, including the UNWTO, have expressed their concern over the travel restrictions recently implemented by the US government. The Trump Administration has…

November a record-breaking month for inbound tourism

Gemma Greenwood Jan 29, 2017

New figures out today show a record-breaking November for inbound tourism visits and spend to the UK. There were 3.1 million inbound visits to the UK in November 2016, up 17% on the same…

Airlines and Aviation

Welsh rugby fans jet away to 6 Nations

Gemma Greenwood Jan 27, 2017

Wales rugby supporters will be jetting off in their droves this 6 Nations to see the home nation take on the ‘Blues Away’. In February and March almost 6,000 fans will travel through Cardiff…

UKinbound welcomes the Government’s modern Industrial Strategy

Gemma Greenwood Jan 27, 2017

UKinbound, which represents over 370 of the country’s tourism businesses, has responded to the Government's new Industrial Strategy and highlighted its importance to the growth of the UK…

Associations

ABTA calls for limits on overseas holiday claim rulings

Aaron Greenwood Jan 26, 2017

ABTA has called for overseas holiday claims up to £25,000 to be brought under the same fixed recoverable legal costs regime that currently applies to other personal injury claims. The…

Airlines and Aviation

Asian airline traffic up 6% in 2016, outlook positive

Mark Elliott Jan 26, 2017

Demand for air travel in Asia Pacific continues to rise, with the region's airlines experiencing a 6.0% increase in international passenger numbers last year. According to the latest data…

Hotels

Phuket hoteliers join forces to promote island

Mark Elliott Jan 24, 2017

The recently-launched Phuket Hotels Association has unveiled its new “Brand Phuket”, which is aimed creating a unified marketing stance for the popular Thai resort island. Unveiled at…

OTAs present ‘moderate threat’ to hotel industry

Gemma Greenwood Jan 23, 2017

A new survey from Travel Technology Europe has revealed that the majority of technology buyers (57%) believe there is a moderate threat from OTAs (online travel agents) to non-proactive…

UKinbound welcomes BTA board changes

Gemma Greenwood Jan 23, 2017

UKinbound has welcomed the appointment of Steve Ridgway CBE as BTA (VisitBritain/VisitEngland) Board chairman and Denis Wormwell as chairman of the VisitEngland Advisory Board.…

Tourism

Singapore PM launches ASEAN’s golden tourism campaign

Mark Elliott Jan 19, 2017

ASEAN has launched a major tourism campaign to mark the Southeast Asian bloc's golden jubilee. Officially unveiled this week by Singapore’s Prime Minister, Lee Hsien Loong, and ASEAN…

Associations

ABTA supports UN Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development

Aaron Greenwood Jan 18, 2017

ABTA is supporting the UN Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development, which launched in Madrid this week. ABTA is a member of the UNWTO (United Nations World Tourism Organisation)…

Tourism Boards

ABTA warns May about impact of ‘hard’ Brexit on travel industry

Gemma Greenwood Jan 17, 2017

ABTA has called on the UK government to ensure European access for UK travel firms in the wake of Prime Minister Theresa May’s decision to endorse a Brexit plan that would see the UK leave…

ABTA welcomes new members, partners

Gemma Greenwood Jan 13, 2017

From October to December 2016, ABTA welcomed 18 new Members, with 10 trading as Principals, five trading as Dual Members, and three retail Members. Additionally, seven new Partners joined…

Tourism Boards

UNWTO puts climate change at “heart” of Asian tourism agenda

Mark Elliott May 29, 2014

Climate change needs to be at the "heart of the tourism agenda" in Southeast Asia, the UNWTO has said. The organisation recently hosted a major event in the Philippines that outlined…

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