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OTA bookings surge, direct sales decline globally

The global experiences industry is witnessing a significant shift as online travel agency (OTA) bookings have surged to 37% of all tour and activity bookings, according to Arival's latest Global Operator Landscape report. This marks an increase from 33% in 2024, highlighting a trend towards digital disruption. Whilst direct bookings via operator websites have decreased from 29% in 2024 to 25% in 2025, as operators face rising digital marketing costs and AI-driven changes in search. The report, based on over 5,000 operator responses, indicates that the industry has not only recovered from the pandemic but has surpassed 2019 performance levels. However, regional growth remains uneven. Asia Pacific is leading with rapid growth following its delayed reopening, whilst Europe maintains strong demand. In contrast, the US faces uncertainty due to a decline in inbound tourism in 2025. AI adoption is accelerating, with 50% of operators now using or testing AI tools, up from one third in 2024. Enterprise operators are at the forefront, with 68% employing AI for content creation, internal operations, and customer-facing applications like chatbots. Douglas Quinby, Co-Founder and CEO of Arival, stated, “Operators have largely recovered, but they’re entering a far more competitive landscape — defined by higher marketing costs, AI-driven disruption, and the growing influence of OTAs.” The report underscores the need for operators to invest in systems, diversify distribution, and create differentiated products to thrive in this evolving market. As the industry moves from recovery to expansion, innovative operators are poised to shape its future This story was selected and published by a human editor, with content adapted from original press material using AI tools. Spot an error? Report it here.

Accelya reports 168% surge in corporate NDC bookings

Accelya, a leader in airline retailing software, has reported a remarkable 168% year-on-year increase in corporate New Distribution Capabilities (NDC) bookings for Q4 2025. Additionally, NDC volumes distributed via Global Distribution Systems (GDS) rose by 162% compared to the same period in 2024. This surge is attributed to airlines on Accelya's FLX NDC platform incorporating paid ancillaries in up to 31% of bookings, generating an extra $12 (US$12) per ticket. In January 2026, Accelya recorded its highest-ever single-day NDC volumes across its global airline customer base, indicating sustained growth. The data underscores the accelerating momentum of the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) NDC, transitioning from pilot phases to high-volume usage. Data from BCD Travel highlights a fourfold increase in NDC bookings processed via Accelya-connected airlines, showcasing rapid adoption once operational readiness is achieved. Thane Jackson, BCD’s senior vice president, noted, “Corporate buyers are looking for NDC solutions that work reliably at scale, with full servicing and minimal disruption to existing workflows.” Tye Radcliffe, Accelya's Chief Customer Success Officer, stated, “These results show that NDC is moving decisively from experimentation to scale.” The company continues to focus on strengthening enterprise-grade servicing and supporting scalable NDC adoption, bridging current distribution models with future offer- and order-based systems. As airlines transition towards Offers and Orders, Accelya remains committed to enhancing modern airline retailing, ensuring measurable commercial success. ```

Hospitable recovers $3.1m in direct booking revenue

Property management software company Hospitable has announced that it has helped property managers recover over $3.1 million in direct booking revenue since the launch of its Abandoned Bookings feature in late 2024. This feature addresses a common issue where guests abandon bookings at the checkout stage, a point traditionally considered a dead end in the booking process. The data highlights a critical oversight in direct booking strategies, where high-intent guests are often lost due to a lack of follow-up. Hospitable's CEO, Pierre-Camille Hamana, explained, “In almost every other online purchase, if you leave something in your cart, you get a reminder. It works because it acknowledges hesitation, not disinterest. Treating abandoned checkouts in direct bookings as lost demand is one of the most expensive habits in our industry.” The Abandoned Bookings feature automatically identifies these drop-offs and sends personalised follow-up messages, allowing property managers to reclaim potential revenue without manual intervention. This approach has proven effective in converting hesitant guests into confirmed bookings, revealing a widespread blind spot in the industry. Hospitable, launched in 2016, has evolved into a comprehensive super app for the short-term rental market, offering features such as AI-driven guest messaging, rate optimisation, and direct booking website management. The company's innovative solutions continue to support tens of thousands of hosts worldwide, streamlining operations and enhancing revenue recovery. ```

Cox & Kings sees 20% rise in Republic Day bookings

Cox & Kings, a leading travel brand, has reported a nearly 20% increase in bookings for the Republic Day long weekend on 26 January, driven by a surge in demand for short, curated getaways among India's working professionals. This trend highlights a shift towards experience-led travel as individuals seek to maximise their time off with well-planned itineraries. Domestic travel remains the dominant choice, accounting for approximately two-thirds of the bookings. Popular destinations include the hill stations of Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, heritage cities like Jaipur and Udaipur, and wildlife spots in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan. These locations offer relaxation and cultural experiences within a four- to five-day travel window. Internationally, short-haul destinations such as Dubai, Vietnam, Thailand, Sri Lanka, and Singapore are attracting significant interest. Factors like easy connectivity and simplified visa processes contribute to their popularity, allowing travellers to enjoy rich experiences in a short period. Karan Agarwal, Director of Cox & Kings, noted, “Long weekends like Republic Day have become intentional travel moments rather than impulsive breaks. Travellers today are planning smarter, choosing destinations that allow them to truly switch off, and valuing curated experiences that remove the stress from short holidays.” The data also reveals a change in traveller demographics, with increased bookings from corporate professionals aged 25–45, as well as family and multi-generational groups. Group tours and customised holidays make up over 60% of bookings, indicating a preference for convenience and comprehensive travel planning. Cox & Kings has observed a 15–18% rise in average spend per booking, as travellers opt for better accommodations and guided experiences. With work-life boundaries blurring, long weekends are becoming a consistent driver of travel demand, setting the tone for continued momentum in 2026. ```

Storm Goretti drives surge in holiday bookings

Superescapes has experienced a significant rise in holiday bookings as Storm Goretti wreaked havoc across the UK, causing severe disruptions. The storm, which brought heavy snow, power cuts, and travel chaos, particularly affected northern England and Scotland. This has led to a noticeable spike in demand for short- and mid-haul escapes to destinations like Spain, the Canaries, and the Caribbean. The storm has acted as a catalyst for many travellers who were already contemplating a winter getaway, according to Jason Waldron, spokesperson for Superescapes. "With fantastic deals across Spain, the Canaries, and the Caribbean, it’s no surprise that bookings have accelerated so quickly, especially from regions most affected by the storm," Waldron stated. Since the onset of COVID-19, British travellers have become more protective of their seasonal breaks, often delaying holiday planning until January. This year, the traditional "peaks" booking window has shifted slightly later, and Storm Goretti appears to have accelerated the pent-up demand. The storm has also highlighted a shift in booking patterns, with multiple mini-peaks throughout the month rather than a single concentrated surge. Short- and mid-haul destinations are leading the charge, with the Balearics, mainland Spain, and the Canary Islands performing exceptionally well due to reliable winter sunshine and competitive pricing. Additionally, aggressive sale activity across long-haul operators has opened up outstanding value in the Caribbean. Superescapes' booking data reveals a clear geographic split, with regions hardest hit by Storm Goretti, such as Scotland, the Midlands, and northern England, seeing the strongest uplift in bookings. However, the unsettled weather nationwide has contributed to a broader rise in demand across the UK. Looking ahead, Superescapes expects the uplift to continue as consumers seek warmth and value during the coldest weeks of the year. The company predicts that the lates market will remain strong, with consumers continuing to seek value-driven escapes well into the season. ```

Does P&O Cruises offer discounts for group bookings?

Cruising with a group can be one of the most enjoyable ways to travel. Call for help at +1-844-807-7245 Whether it is a family reunion, a celebration with friends, a corporate incentive trip, or a social club getaway, group cruises bring people together while offering shared experiences at sea. A common and practical question many travelers ask is: does P&O Cruises offer discounts for group bookings? The short answer is that group travel can offer savings, but the structure of those savings is more nuanced than a simple advertised discount. Understanding group pricing on cruises Cruise pricing is influenced by many factors, including demand, itinerary, cabin category, and booking timing. Group pricing follows the same principles but adds a coordinated booking structure. Instead of focusing only on a lower base fare, group cruise offers often emphasize overall value. For P&O Cruises, group bookings are usually based on reserving a certain number of cabins or passengers together. Once this threshold is met, the booking may qualify under group travel terms, which can unlock different pricing arrangements or benefits compared to individual reservations. Are group discounts guaranteed? One important point to understand is that P&O Cruises group discounts are not always guaranteed. Unlike promotional sales that advertise a fixed percentage off, group pricing is more flexible and depends on availability and sailing demand. On some sailings, groups may receive reduced fares compared to individual bookings. On others, the savings may come in the form of onboard credit, added amenities, or price protection rather than a lower upfront cost. This approach allows the cruise line to balance demand while still offering value to groups. Types of savings groups may receive Group booking savings on P&O Cruises can take several forms. Reduced cabin rates are one possibility, especially for early bookings on less crowded sailings. Another common benefit is added onboard credit, which can be used for dining, spa services, or excursions. Groups may also benefit from fixed pricing for a set period, protecting them from fare increases as cabins fill. While this may not appear as a discount on paper, it can result in meaningful savings over time. Why early booking matters Timing plays a major role in whether discounted rates for P&O Cruises group bookings are available. Groups that book early often have access to better inventory and more favorable pricing options. Early booking also allows group organizers to secure space while finalizing participant details. This flexibility can be especially valuable for large groups where attendance may change during the planning process. Group size and its impact on savings The size of the group can influence the type of savings offered. Larger groups may qualify for more attractive group cruise offers because they represent a significant block of cabins for the cruise line. Smaller groups may still receive benefits, but these are often more modest. Understanding how cruise group discounts scale with size can help set realistic expectations when planning. Value-added benefits versus direct discounts Many travelers expect a straightforward discount when booking as a group. In practice, P&O group deals often focus on value-added perks rather than deep price cuts. Examples include complimentary amenities for the group organizer, special dining arrangements, or exclusive onboard events. These extras can enhance the group experience and sometimes provide more value than a simple fare reduction. Flexibility and financial advantages Another indirect saving comes from flexibility. Group bookings may offer extended payment schedules or delayed name submission deadlines. This can reduce financial pressure on individual travelers and lower the risk of costly last-minute changes. While these benefits are not discounts in the traditional sense, they can prevent additional expenses and make group planning more efficient. Comparing group bookings to individual promotions It is important to compare group pricing with available individual promotions. Sometimes, a flash sale or limited-time offer may provide a lower fare for individual bookings than a group rate. However, individual promotions often come with stricter conditions. Group travel offers may provide more stability and predictability, which can be valuable when coordinating multiple travelers. Role of travel agents and group coordinators Group bookings are frequently managed by travel agents or group coordinators who specialize in cruise travel. These professionals understand the P&O Cruises group discount policy and can negotiate benefits based on group size and sailing details. They also help ensure that group members are aligned on deadlines, documentation, and payment schedules. Informational platforms like portjourney.com can help travelers learn about cruise group planning concepts before engaging with an agent. Common misconceptions about group discounts A common misconception is that every group booking automatically receives a large discount. In reality, cruise group discounts are influenced by many variables and may not always result in a lower base fare. Another misconception is that group bookings are only for very large parties. In fact, smaller groups can still qualify for group travel offers, although the benefits may differ. Planning strategies to maximize savings To increase the likelihood of receiving P&O Cruises savings for group travel, start planning early and remain flexible with travel dates. Sailing during off-peak seasons or choosing less popular itineraries can improve pricing options. Clear communication within the group also helps. When participants understand deadlines and payment expectations, the booking process runs more smoothly, reducing the risk of penalties or lost deposits. When group bookings may not be ideal Group bookings are not always the best option. If your group is small and individual promotions are strong, booking separately may offer better pricing. Additionally, travelers who prefer maximum flexibility may find individual bookings more suitable. Evaluating both options side by side is the best way to determine which approach offers the greatest overall value. Final thoughts So, does P&O Cruises offer discounts for group bookings? In many cases, yes, but those discounts often come in varied forms. Reduced fares, onboard credits, price protection, and added amenities all contribute to group booking savings on P&O Cruises. Rather than focusing solely on the word “discount,” travelers should consider the total value of group travel offers. With early planning, the right group size, and informed decision-making, group cruises with P&O can be both memorable and cost-effective. Frequently Asked Questions Does P&O Cruises offer discounts for group bookings on all sailings? Group discounts depend on availability, demand, and timing. Not all sailings offer the same level of group savings. What kind of savings can groups expect? Savings may include reduced fares, onboard credit, added amenities, or price protection rather than a direct discount. How many people are needed to qualify for group cruise offers? Group eligibility is usually based on a minimum number of cabins or passengers booked together under one agreement. Are group deals better than individual promotions? It depends on the sailing and timing. Group deals offer stability and coordination, while individual promotions may offer lower fares with stricter rules. Who can help me understand group booking savings? Travel agents and cruise support teams can explain available options. Many travelers also speak with cruise specialists at +1-844-807-7245 for guidance on group travel offers and savings.

Travel trade faces rebooking surge as Storm Goretti disrupts European energy and transit

Image Courtesy: My Daily UK Blog Travel management companies and frontline advisors had braced for a weekend of rebooking activity as Storm Goretti continues to destabilise European transport infrastructure. The "multi-hazard" event has already forced a wave of flight cancellations and rail suspensions. Travel across large parts of Europe was severely disrupted on Friday as Storm Goretti brought gale-force winds, heavy snowfall and widespread power outages, grounding flights and halting rail services. Thousands of homes were left without electricity, while airports and rail networks across northern Europe struggled to operate amid dangerous conditions. Flights cancelled In the Netherlands, flights were cancelled as heavy snowfall returned following a brief lull. In France, winds exceeding 150 kph (93 mph) were recorded overnight in the north-western Manche region, with a record gust of 213 kph in Barfleur. The extreme weather forced state rail operator SNCF to suspend services between Paris and Normandy. France’s state energy company EDF said two reactors at the Flamanville nuclear power station were taken offline after a high-voltage line was disrupted. Across Western Europe, wholesale power prices rose as infrastructure was affected by the storm. Elsewhere in France, roofs were torn from buildings and trees uprooted. Train Services disrupted In the UK, rail services were suspended in parts of the West Midlands as thick snow blanketed the region. Intense snowfall hit the West Midlands, Shropshire and Staffordshire overnight, while strong winds battered the West Country and Wales. Network Rail said teams were working around the clock, using chainsaws and snowploughs to clear fallen trees and deep drifts from tracks. The Met Office issued amber weather warnings, cautioning that Storm Goretti would be a “multi-hazard event.” Chief Forecaster Neil Armstrong said the most significant impacts would come from heavy snow in Wales and the Midlands, very strong winds in the far southwest, and heavy rain in parts of Wales and East Anglia. “Accumulations of 10–15 cm of snow are likely widely, with 20–30 cm possible in some areas, especially over higher ground in Wales and the Peak District,” Armstrong said, urging people to stay informed and follow advice from local authorities. Refunds and re-routing The travel industry has warned passengers to prepare for continued disruption. Julia Lo Bue-Said OBE, Chief Executive of the Advantage Travel Partnership, said severe weather had already caused flight cancellations and rail suspensions, with further disruption expected through the weekend. She advised travellers to monitor updates from airlines and transport operators, allow extra time for journeys, and ensure travel insurance and essential documents are easily accessible. Passengers whose flights are cancelled are entitled to a refund or re-routing under consumer protection rules, she added, and airlines must provide appropriate care even when disruption is caused by severe weather. With conditions expected to remain volatile, authorities across Europe continue to urge caution as Storm Goretti moves through the region.

Agoda launches AI-powered booking bot

Agoda has unveiled its latest innovation, the Booking Form Bot, an AI-powered chatbot designed to assist travellers with booking-related queries at the final stage of their reservation process. This new tool, available on the Agoda app and mobile browser, aims to enhance user confidence by addressing last-minute questions about promo codes, cancellation policies, and price discrepancies. Idan Zalzberg, Chief Technology Officer at Agoda, emphasised the importance of the new tool, stating, "Helping travellers stay informed at every step of their journey is central to building trust in our platform. At the booking stage, last-minute questions often arise around cancellation options or payment terms. The Booking Form Bot provides instant answers right when travellers need them, helping them book with confidence." With this launch, Agoda continues to invest in AI-driven solutions to simplify and expedite travel planning for millions worldwide. How can it help users? According to Agoda's internal research, 28% percent of users return to the property page from the booking page to verify trip details. The Booking Form Bot seeks to mitigate this by offering instant, context-aware responses to questions such as "Can I cancel for free?" and "Does this booking qualify for cashback?" That said, this feature builds on the success of Agoda's Property AMA Bot, which handles over 30,000 hotel-related queries daily. ```

Gir Safari Booking – Simple Guide

Gir National Park, also known as Gir Forest, is the only place in the world where you can see Asiatic Lions in the wild. It is located in Gujarat, India and attracts thousands of nature and wildlife lovers every year. Booking a safari in Gir is the best way to explore the forest and spot wildlife. Types of Gir Safari There are mainly two types of safaris available in Gir National Park: Jeep Safari Open jeep with a trained driver and guide Best option to see lions and other animals Safari duration is about 3 hours Devalia Safari (Gir Interpretation Zone) Short and safe safari in a fenced area Higher chances of seeing lions Suitable for families and senior citizens How to Book Gir Safari Pay the safari fee online Carry the booking confirmation and original ID during the safari Best Time for Gir Safari Gir National Park is open from October to June Best months to see lions are December to April Morning safaris are usually better for wildlife sightings Important Safari Rules Entry is allowed only with valid booking Follow instructions given by the forest guide Do not feed animals or make loud noise Photography is allowed, but no flash Why Book Gir Safari? Experience the thrill of seeing Asiatic Lions Enjoy natural forest beauty and wildlife Safe and well-managed safari experience Perfect destination for family trips and wildlife photography

Gir Safari Booking

Gir National Park, also known as Gir Forest National Park, is one of India’s most important wildlife reserves and the only place in the world where Asiatic lions live in the wild. Located in Gujarat, India, Gir National Park is globally admired for its successful conservation efforts and rich biodiversity. The park features a unique landscape of dry deciduous forests, grasslands, rocky hills, and riverine areas, creating an ideal habitat for wildlife. Wildlife Highlights Gir National Park is famous for Asiatic lions, but it also supports a wide range of other species, including leopards, striped hyenas, jackals, and several species of deer such as chital and sambar. The park is also home to over 300 bird species, making it a rewarding destination for birdwatchers. Best Time to Visit Gir National Park The best time to visit Gir National Park is from December to March, when wildlife sightings are frequent and weather conditions are pleasant. Safari Experience Visitors can explore the park through guided jeep safaris, which offer excellent opportunities for wildlife photography and close encounters with the Asiatic lion in its natural habitat. Nearby Town Sasan Gir is the main gateway to Gir National Park and provides accommodation and travel facilities for tourists. With its rare wildlife, well-protected ecosystem, and rich natural heritage, Gir National Park in Gujarat stands out as one of the top wildlife tourism destinations in India.

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Direct Booking Summit Bangkok 17 to 18 November 2021

The Direct Booking Summit unites hundreds of hoteliers together - from savvy independents to international chains - to strategize, network and drive the Direct Booking Movement forward.

TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards Malaysia 2026

Introducing the TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards, a prestigious awards programme recognising the pinnacle of excellence in the travel industry. With a keen focus on honouring the best hotels, airlines, airports, cruise lines, tour operators and travel agencies, booking platforms, and travel technology, projects, and initiatives, the TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards programme aims to spotlight key players that consistently redefine industry standards and elevate customer experiences.

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