Travel Matters Issue 84 March 2025

Plus, new inclusive pricing - even more included in our cruise fare. FREEDOM FARE PRICE PROMISE NEW INCLUSIVE PRICING - EVEN MORE INCLUDED IN YOUR CRUISE FARE INSPIRING SALES IDEAS FOR THE TRAVEL TRADE ISLE OF MAN NORTHERN IRELAND NORTH OF ENGLAND SCOTLAND ISSUE 84 TRAVEL MARCH 2025 MATTERS TRAVEL MATTERS TM

INTRODUCING OUR NEW AUTUMN-WINTER 2026 CRUISES Our Journey Planners have been busy crafting an exciting new programme of cruises for September to December 2026, from autumn adventures to winter sun and festive fun. A standout highlight is our festive fleet reunion in Las Palmas, Gran Canaria, combining winter warmth with unmissable celebrations. There’s also a tempting selection of Mediterranean fly-cruises taking in Corsica, the Adriatic, Greece, the French Riviera, the Amalfi Coast and more – shorter getaways designed to maximise your customers time in iconic destinations as well as lesser-known gems, allowing for more in-depth exploration. Back by popular demand, ‘You Choose Your Cruise’ lets guests vote for each port as we sail, creating their own unique itinerary. Plus, there’s an indulgent 32-night Caribbean voyage, a Mystery Cruise planned in secret with the expert knowledge of our very own Captain Degerlund, a scenic French river sailing that takes advantage of Balmoral’s smaller size, allowing us to sail the Seine into Rouen, and itineraries timed to coincide with the Geminid Meteor Shower and Germany’s Christmas markets.

NEW INCLUSIVE PRICING We’ve listened to our guests and made our pricing simpler, clearer and more inclusive – ensuring even more is included within the cruise fare. Alongside full-board dining, entertainment and enrichment talks, guests can enjoy complimentary guided walks ashore, shuttle buses for ports over a mile away from your ship, fitness centre access and classes, and room service. Port taxes, fees and gratuities are also included, along with our satisfaction guarantee. Plus, we’re delighted to now include selected beer, wine, and soft drinks with lunch and dinner – so your customers can unwind and savour every moment, knowing everything is taken care of. FREEDOM FARE PRICE PROMISE By securing your customers their place on one of our new Autumn Winter 2026 sailings within the first month of its release, they can benefit from our Freedom Fare Price Promise. If their cruise price is later reduced, we’ll automatically upgrade their cabin or gift On-Board Spend, so you can rest assured they’ll be getting excellent value on your Freedom Fare. This new promise has been created in response to valuable feedback from our guests about holiday prices reducing closer to departure. INSPIRING SALES IDEAS FOR THE TRAVEL TRADE ISLE OF MAN NORTHERN IRELAND NORTH OF ENGLAND SCOTLAND ISSUE 84 TRAVEL MARCH 2025 MATTERS TRAVEL MATTERS TM FOCUS ON ESCORTED HOLIDAYS MIDDLE EAST HIGHLIGHTS OCEANIA CRUISES INSERT

Inside this issue... OCEANIA CRUISES INSERT 31 Al Bahar Villas now open - Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Dubai 33 Emirates - Endless adventure in Dubai 37 Atlanti s the Palm, Dubai a World Away! 39 Seek the unexpected - Aldhafra Resort, Abu Dhabi 41 Love your vacati on dream - Celestyal MIDDLE EAST HIGHLIGHTS 31 39 37 41 13 Book & Win with Virgin Store! 17 Take off to Halifax, Canada with Westjet 19 Unforgett able trips with Anzcro 21 Air Canada - fi nd that Summer feeling 23 Boundless leisure at TRS Turquesa Hotel 27 Visit Balti more with North America Travel Service 29 Stena Line - Ireland or Holland 45 Unforgett able experiences - Riverside Luxury Cruises 77 SPL Villas - Flight-inclusive family villa holidays 78-79 interCaribbean - connecti ng the UK and the Caribbean 87 New inclusive pricing - Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines 19 77 23 13 87 45 4 MARCH 2025

47 Travel Department - Save up to £100 pp 49 Links Travel & Tours - Discover Japan 51 Best seat in the house - Intrepid Travel 53 Insight Vacati ons - Win a holiday for 2! 55 Shearings - coach holidays are the ‘Wheel’ deal 57 Adventures for the curious - Cox & Kings 59 Travelsphere presents - The Royal Geographical Society Collecti on 61 Choose the tour that gives you more - Titan Travel 63 Newmarket Holidays - your Asia Specialists 66-67 Unbeatable value - Riviera Travel 69 Scotland Special! - Wendy Wu Tours 71 Escorted holidays with Travelpack FOCUS ON ESCORTED HOLIDAYS 49 53 66-67 55 61 69 47 51 57 59 63 71 travelmatt ers.biz 5

MEET THE TEAM: Travel Matt ersTM is published by GAH Publishing Ltd, 96 Craigleith Hill Crescent, Edinburgh, EH4 2JP For magazine delivery and subscripti on enquiries, email gary@travelmatt ers.biz Printed by Claro Print. All rights reserved. No part of this publicati on may be reproduced in whole or part without the prior permission of the copyright holder. All prices and data are correct at ti me of publicati on. Opinions expressed in Travel Matt ers are not necessarily those of the publisher and GAH Publishing does not accept responsibility for any mistakes that may occur. Read previous issues online at... www.travelmatt ers.biz This magazine is fully recyclable, with biodegradable laminati on & wrapped using LDPE 4, a recyclable polythene which can be recycled through your kerbside collecti on or at a local recycling point. Paper is sourced from managed forests where more trees are planted each year than are harvested and all printi ng inks are vegetable oil based, eco-friendly and are certi fi ed to the ISO 14001 environmental standard. @travelmatt ers.biz @TravelMatBiz @travelmatt ersbiz @travelmatt ersbiz Andrea Pellicci-Glen Director 07766 010272 andrea@travelmatt ers.biz Hilary Douglas Director 07989 414454 hilary@travelmatt ers.biz Gary Reavely Director 07762 630057 gary@travelmatt ers.biz It looks as though Peaks is sti ll on a roll, which is great news as we move into Spring! Clients are sti ll prioriti sing a holiday - and making bookings. The travel trade calendar is fi lling up fast, and the days are getti ng longer - all positi ve stuff . If your customers are dreaming of visiti ng the modern and ancient wonders of the Middle East or the vibrant cultures or scenery of worldwide far-fl ung desti nati ons, our Middle East and Escorted Tours features highlight the many opti ons available. The Middle East off ers city, beach, cultural and shopping breaks - as well as a convenient stopover to Asia and Australasia. From the wilderness of Canada to the serene temples of Asia, an escorted tour iti nerary is carefully curated to off er clients a deeper connecti on to the places they visit. With a group of like-minded adventurers, they can experience the world with ease and excitement, free to discover and make memories that will last a lifeti me. The next adventure is just a step away! The Travel Matt ers Team Springing into acti on

Emirates and Edinburgh Airport hosted the travel trade on board their brand new A350 aircraft travelmatt ers.biz 7

EDINBURGH AIRPORT APPOINTS NEW ENGAGEMENT MANAGER Edinburgh Airport has announced the appointment of Jenna Donaldson in a newly created Engagement Manager role. The new role will provide a dedicated resource to support engagement across the travel trade and corporate market, airlines and other key stakeholders within Scotland and the wider UK market. Jenna brings over 14 years of travel industry experience including with Qatar Airways, BMI Regional, Colpitt s World Travel, and Travel Direct. Jonny Macneal, Head of Aviati on at Edinburgh Airport comments: “Jenna brings wide ranging travel industry experience, most recently from her ti me working with Qatar Airways both in Scotland and Doha and is well known and highly regarded within the Scotti sh market. We are extremely excited to have her join the team and look forward to seeing how Jenna can help to generate awareness of the work that the airport is doing and ensure that our messaging and that of our airline partners is communicated eff ecti vely.” To get in touch with Jenna, email: [email protected] ROYAL CARIBBEAN INTERNATIONAL EXPANDS TRADE TEAM Elaine Truesdale has joined Royal Caribbean Internati onal’s UK and Ireland team as Sales Development Manager, to support the brand’s growth in the Irish market. Elaine joins the team following a number of years at specialist travel agencies, where her passion for Royal Caribbean began. As a travel agent, Elaine consistently topped Royal Caribbean’s sales incenti ve leaderboards and was the fi rst agent in Ireland to receive ‘Guru’ status for completi ng the highest level of brand training on Royal Caribbean’s online travel agent learning and rewards platf orm, My Club Royal. Elaine says: “An exciti ng aspect of the role is having the opportunity to pass on my enthusiasm and knowledge of the brand, gained from years of being an agent selling this fabulous product, as well as sailing onboard with my family”. Elaine will be based in Northern Ireland. LEADERSHIP TRANSITION AT ELEGANT RESORTS AND IF ONLY Gordon McCreadie, currently General Manager at If Only, has been appointed as the new Managing Director of Elegant Resorts and If Only, aft er Lisa Fitzell made the decision to step down. Gordon McCreadie comments:” Having worked closely with Lisa for over six years at If Only along with my senior team of David and Tracy and the leadership team at Elegant Resorts, I can confi dently say these years have been among the most rewarding of my career despite all the challenges our industry has faced. “With a strong succession plan in place and an excepti onal senior management team ensuring conti nuity, we will conti nue to elevate the Elegant Resorts and If Only brands, ensuring they remain at the forefront of luxury travel with all agents. “We’re launching bold, imaginati ve initi ati ves across both brands, set to elevate our partnerships to new heights - stay tuned for exciti ng announcements in the coming weeks and months!” AMBASSADOR CRUISE LINE DEPUTY HEAD OF TRADE TO LEAD TEAM Ambassador Cruise Line has announced that Deputy Head of Trade, Karen Cameron, will step into the new positi on of Head of Trade (Interim), while Nicola Harper departs on maternity leave. In Nicola’s absence, Karen will lead the team in additi on to her current role at an exciti ng ti me for the business, which announced in early January that it had reached an agreement to merge with French cruise operator Compagnie Française de Croisières (“CFC”), forming the “Ambassador Group”. Karen Cameron comments: “I couldn’t be happier for Nicola as she embarks on an exciti ng new adventure! During her maternity leave, I and the team will conti nue to off er every support to our trade partner’s eff orts to increase Ambassador brand awareness and ulti mately drive sales. “We know that there is a big market for our aff ordable quality product, and the Distributi on Team will be with them every step of the way through 2025 and beyond.” based in Northern Ireland. THE WORLD IS YOURS TO EXPLORE NEWS 8 MARCH 2025

SAIL FROM NEWCASTLE TO AMSTERDAM AND ENJOY SHORT BREAKS WITH 15% OFF * You may not automatically think of taking a break in Europe throughout the winter months. But did you know many European destinations are perfect to visit at this time of year? Winter brings peacefulness and serenity, ideal for relaxing road trips, laidback walks through winter forests and traditional towns, enjoying impressive landscapes, warm drinks in charming cafés, delicious local dishes, and not forgetting sensational sunsets. For Cyclists eager to pedal through the picturesque landscapes of the Netherlands, history buffs hooked by the storied cities of Germany, foodies excited to savour rich Belgian chocolates and waffles, or adventurers ready to conquer the trails of the Austrian Alps. Europe offers it all - for less! *Transportation fare from £100 per person, based on 4 people, in an inside cabin plus standard car, return trip. Customers can spend up to 4 nights at their chosen destination. Travel until 30 April or from 1 September until 31 December 2025. For more information, contact Louise Arthur: [email protected] Book at dfds.co.uk/agent or call 0871 5529955

What a fantasti c end to February we’ve had: demand for travel has been sustained and we had the opportunity to celebrate this and everything we’ve achieved in the last 12 months at the 95th SPAA Annual Dinner which took place on 27th February. With a turnout of almost 350 disti nguished guests, it was an evening to be remembered. We were joined by CLIA’s Andy Harmer as well as Marc Crothall from the Scotti sh Tourism Alliance who each delivered two thought-provoking speeches about their experiences and views on the world of travel and tourism. A lot of criti cal topics were covered throughout the evening, so I wanted to recap some of the most important messages that we need to consider as an industry this year. Recapping on peaks, while it’s not been plain sailing, with a soft er start to demand and the worst storm in a century causing unexpected disrupti on, holiday spend is up and booking records are sti ll being broken. February was hot on the heels of January when it comes to demand for travel and we saw sustained levels of spend from consumers who are prioriti sing travel once again this year. For corporate travel, spend is trending upwards - and members are reporti ng that clients have protected travel budgets. However - one of the major challenges that we conti nue to hear about from our corporate agencies is the rollout and adopti on of NDC. NDC is reshaping airline distributi on – but TMCs face signifi cant challenges with accessing the content. A lack of standardisati on means the overall process is fragmented - this is not good for agents, airlines, or clients. With demand for TMCs higher than ever, there must be a turning point to allow the industry to conti nue to thrive, and a seamless, end-to-end soluti on is required as soon as possible. With a strong start to 2025 trading for both corporate and leisure, this has underlined the importance the role of an agent plays. A great agent is essenti al for customer sati sfacti on - parti cularly when we’re faced with things like weather incidents or cancellati ons. With this positi on of trust, I’d like to encourage more suppliers and operators to signpost business to agents. Some partners do this really well - but I think there’s room for many more to signal their confi dence in agents by including recommendati ons in their marketi ng. Coming down the line this year, one of the areas the SPAA conti nues to focus on is government support to ensure we can conti nue to grow and thrive. One of the most acute pain points for the retail travel industry is targeted support for high street growth. At our Annual Dinner, yet again we fl agged that the lack of business rates support in Scotland for the coming fi nancial year is beyond disappointi ng. What was perhaps even more baffl ing, was the decision to pass some savings on to our friends in hospitality but exclude all retailers. We shoulder the same costs, the same challenges and operate under similar conditi ons - but for a reason yet to be disclosed, we remain ineligible for support. While travel conti nues to buck the trend and our forecasts for growth are healthy, we are not immune from the wider consequences of a suff ering high street. Healthy retail communiti es are essenti al for everyone - travel cannot operate in isolati on. The high street is one of two criti cal components that keeps our industry alive. The second - is talent, but specifi cally young people. In our industry, there are plenty of success stories because once young people join travel, they tend to remain there for the majority of their careers. However - de-funded courses across the country, a levy system that is completely unfi t for purpose, and an ongoing skills shortage is undermining the principle that young people are essenti al for future business success. In the last few months, there have been some changes emerging when it comes to accessing funding in Scotland. One change we’re keeping an eye on is responsibility for apprenti ceships being moved to the Scotti sh Funding Council. We don’t yet have a full view of what that means for business – but we are hopeful that perhaps this might open more doors for new conversati ons and opportuniti es. The SPAA has been working hard to ensure we are joined up with our partners in the inbound tourism industry. There’s no bett er refl ecti on of how this has fl ourished than having welcomed Marc Crothall to our dinner last month to share his views. Each side of the travel industry can only be as strong as its counterpart - which is why we’re working closely together to promote a connected Scotland that works for inbound and outbound travel. Connecti vity is essenti al for good travel business – including cruise connecti vity. Our ongoing partnership with CLIA will be looking at strengthening Scotland’s opportunity in the cruise market as well as contributi ng to the ongoing cruise tax consultati on which opened late February. This is simply a snapshot of what is going on in the Scotti sh travel industry. It’s set to be another very busy but producti ve year for the Associati on and we’ll be keeping you posted on our plans as the year progresses. Jacqueline Dobson SPAA President 10 MARCH 2025

THE VOICE OF TRAVEL IN SCOTLAND Join us for the STAR EXHIBITION Thursday 3rd April 2025 Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa, Edinburgh Catch up with all the latest supplier news. Enjoy buffet food and drinks! And don’t forget there’s the chance to win some fabulous prizes on the night! For more information, email: [email protected] The 95th SPAA Dinner was a great success with over 300 att endees. Jac Dobson Chaired the Dinner and gave a brillant address to the haggis and an excellent speech, with Gayle Gordon taking her positi on as the fi rst lady Convener. And the World Championship Pipe Band winners - the Inveraray Pipe Band - provided some superb entertainment. travelmatt ers.biz 11

This peaks, I have been out on the road visiti ng agents across Scotland, Northern Ireland and North England, to get fi rsthand experience on how business is going for you, our fantasti c agent partners. Like us, many are reporti ng how busy they have been, which is great to see and hear. We’re thrilled to have had a really strong start to the year at Scenic & Emerald Cruises. Sales through our travel agent partners this January exceeded last January by more than 35%, with our Scenic 8-Day Gems of the Danube river cruise being our bestseller. Sales have also been bolstered by our luxury yacht, Emerald Sakara, featuring on ‘Susan Calman’s Cruise of a Lifeti me’ - which is sti ll available on My5 if you’d like to watch on catch up. Looking forward to the coming months, I’ve been working with our agent partners on consumer events, presentati ons and agent training from March onwards. We are also booking in more and more webinars for your customers. We can set these up for you - all you need to do is invite your customers to att end and we’ll do the rest! At all our events and webinars, we off er exclusive extra discounts to encourage bookings and add value. If this is something you’d be interested in, please do get in touch. I look forward to working together towards an even more successful Q2. If you need any marketi ng assets, off ers, training or support with your bookings or promoti ons, just let me know. 8-day Scenic all-inclusive, ultra-luxury Gems of the Danube river cruise, Budapest - Regensburg, departi ng March - October 2025 from £1,995pp. Please contact your Sales Manager, William Young for further informati on: E : [email protected] T : 07921 830147 W: scenic.co.uk | emeraldcruises.co.uk Where’s William? EASYJET HOLIDAYS ANNOUNCES ROADSHOW DATES easyJet holidays has announced its 2025 Team Orange on Tour roadshows with a total of 16 locati ons across the UK in a bid to engage with over 7,000 travel agent partners. Dubbed ‘TOOTs’, the events give agents the chance to network with the Trade Distributi on team and its key hotel partners, learning more about the tour operator’s portf olio for this summer season and beyond. The following dates and locati ons now available for agents to book via easyJet holidays’ Trade Facebook page: 10 June - Newcastle; 17 September - Glasgow; 18 September - Belfast. SEASIDE TRAVEL SEES INCREASE IN DEMAND FROM TEESSIDE Seaside Travel’s newest branch in Guisborough, has seen plenty of demand for Teesside holidays since opening in the town last year. Natalie Burrows, from Seaside Travel, says: “It’s really picking up. A lot of people don’t necessarily want to travel to the bigger airports - and there are people who are adamant they only want Teesside, which works massively in our favour.” Popular with customers is the new Ryanair route to Malaga which opens the door to the Costa Del Sol from Teesside, giving holidaymakers the chance to see the Nerja caves, the Picasso Museum, or to grab some warm spring sunshine on the miles of golden beaches. Another big Teesside hit this coming summer has been the Greek isle of Corfu fl ying with Ryanair - with the weekly service to the island starti ng on 7 June. Teesside’s fi rst of its twice weekly fl ights to Malaga takes off on Monday, 31 March, with fl ights operati ng unti l 23 October. 12 MARCH 2025

IAIN RAEPER AREA MANAGER, SCOTLAND & NORTHERN IRELAND RATEHAWK In Autumn 1995.. I had 2 life choices to make, or so my parents told me; conti nue my leisure management course - 2 of 4 years already completed or join the fi re service - all exams passed and on the short list for Edinburgh Airport. Or opti on 3... see an advert in a newspaper looking to recruit “easy going and fun loving” young people to become representati ves for a company called Club 18-30. To my parents’ disdain, I chose the latt er! The initi al applicati on process was by lett er. No CV required, and I don’t think I ever actually informed Flying Colours (the company who owned the Club 18-30 brand at the ti me) of my educati onal achievements. The wait for a response was nerve wrecking. I also had to try and prevent my parents from seeing the envelope coming through the lett erbox for fear of them sussing out my sneaky plan to escape to the sun! The lett er duly arrived and I was invited to a group interview process at what used to be the Stakis Ingram Hotel in Glasgow. There were about 30 people there from all over the country - including some from NE England. Apparently around 11,000 people had applied for about 300 positi ons for the 1996 summer season. The process involved being invited to off er an impromptu descripti on of my personality and any interesti ng life experiences to date, followed by me lying through my teeth and informing the recruiters that I’d been on a Club 18-30 holiday. As the recruiters were all former or current reps, the conversati on got awkward when they asked me what resort/ hotel I’d visited. They saw through me quite quickly but I must have impressed them as I made it through to the next stage! I then att ended a weekend event in Blackpool which involved fun exercises like being split into teams of complete strangers with an hour to come up with a 20 minute cabaret show - which we then had to perform! Then we were herded onto coaches to be driven around Blackpool whilst we took it in turn to get on the mic and recreate transfer and excursion spiels. We were told that the best 50 would go to Ibiza and to wait for a lett er. I didn’t fancy it, because I didn’t like nightclubs... So when the lett er came, you guessed it - I was designated Ibiza as my base! We had a two week training period when we arrived on resort, mainly in sales, and we spent this ti me living in overcrowded apartments or hotel rooms with complete strangers, sleeping on our suitcases! My hotel was a 2*, well worn hotel between San Antonio and San Antonio Bay, where my ti ny box room on the roof next to the laundry room (no window, just a hole in the wall) was regularly burgled due to no lock on the door! Duti es were seven days per week, every week. We had to host welcome parti es, excursions and acti viti es for the guests around the hotel. Evenings would kick off with games (usually drinking!) in the hotel bar prior to the evening excursion - bar crawls, club nights, cabaret nights and themed nights - all hosted and performed by the reps. Two nights per week we would also be on airport transfer duty. Long, laborious shift s that could oft en last 6 hours and go on through the night into morning depending on fl ight ti mes - and delays! And we were driven to sell, sell, sell! Excursions, reunion ti ckets, t-shirts. We were also oft en counsellors and nurses! A normal day was usually a 17 hour shift - someti mes longer - with no days off . The only excepti on would be a “rep’s fl ick” - where we were allowed to wear our own clothes (no uniforms or badges) and were whisked off to a secret locati on to get drunk. The good ti mes were great, and the bad ti mes were abysmal - being featured in The Daily Star and Take a Break magazine ‘scanti ly clad’; modelling for the brochure (true story)! The list goes on! I completed the full season in Ibiza and returned home aft er 7 months. One of the last standing which was no mean feat. I had 3 months off then headed over to Menorca to help set up the following summer season for Sunset Holidays - Club’s more demure brand. I then transferred over to Mallorca with Club 18-30, for a short period, and then onto Benidorm where I spent the rest of the summer of 1997. Many of my ex Club 18-30 colleagues have gone on to enjoy fantasti c careers in the travel/hospitality industries. And many of us are sti ll great friends to this day, and meet for the odd “rep’s fl ick” when we are allowed to by our bett er halves! I’m so glad there were no camera phones or social media back then! IAIN RAEPER AREA MANAGER, SCOTLAND & NORTHERN IRELAND RATEHAWK The list goes on! I completed the full season in Ibiza and returned home aft er looks back... at his role as a Club 18-30 Rep! Evenings would kick off with games (usually drinking!) in the 14 MARCH 2025

NEW INCLUSIVE PRICING - EVEN MORE INCLUDED IN YOUR CRUISE FARE If your cruise price is later reduced on the Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines website, we’ll upgrade you or gift you On-Board Spend. T&Cs apply. FREEDOM FARE PRICE PROMISE

Titans in every sense When it comes to touring, there’s only one thing more important than the destination, and that’s the tour manager. It doesn’t matter how meticulously planned the itinerary is, how many excursions are included, what amazing experiences are on offer or what incredible sights will be seen, a brilliant tour manager is what really makes a tour. Not only do they bring each new place to life, they also make sure all the ‘behind the scenes’ stuff runs smoothly, like connecting with local guides, liaising with drivers and generally making sure everything happens as it should. Luckily, Titan has some of the best tour managers in the business. Each one is personally selected for their knowledge, experience and passion for travel, and put through our Excellence Programme, so they’re leaders in every sense. In fact our customers consistently score them an average of 9/10, and some even choose their next adventure based on their favourite tour manager’s schedule. Here’s just a handful of recent 5-star reviews… “Our tour manager was excellent. A great introduction to South Africa.” Jan 2025. Julie, went on Sensational South Africa “Our tour manager was lovely, kind and organised, nothing was too much trouble.” Feb 2025. Jan, went on India’s Golden Triangle with Ranthambore National Park “The itinerary was very well planned by the tour manager who was knowledgeable and caring.” Feb 2025. David, went on Magic of the Nile www.titantravel.co.uk VIRGIN ATLANTIC TO EXPAND CODESHARE WITH WESTJET Virgin Atlanti c and WestJet have announced an expanded codeshare agreement, providing seamless connecti vity for customers travelling between the UK and Canada with enhanced customer benefi ts for connecti ng passengers. The two airlines will be co-located at Toronto Pearson Internati onal Airport’s Terminal 3, where Virgin Atlanti c will partner with the Greater Toronto Airports Authority and Canada Border Services Agency, to support customer connecti ons onwards via eligible citi es. Customers will easily be able to transfer through Toronto Pearson without having to collect and recheck their baggage to their fi nal desti nati on. The partnership will provide connecti ons from the UK via Toronto to 13 gateways across Canada, including Calgary, Edmonton, Vancouver, Winnipeg and Ott awa. The Codeshare will commence on 30 March 2025 in line with Virgin Atlanti c’s route launch between London Heathrow Airport and Toronto Pearson Internati onal Airport. HAYS TRAVEL CELEBRATES LOYAL COLLEAGUES Hays Travel recently celebrated 23 longserving colleagues at a dinner hosted by Dame Irene Hays. Staff members from retail branches in the north and head offi ce departments reaching thirty-, twenty-, and ten-year service milestones received a unique piece of Sunderland studio glass from Nati onal Glass Centre and a Hays Travel voucher to redeem against their own holiday. Among those being recognised was Chief Operati ng Offi cer Jonathon Woodall-Johnston, who has been with Hays Travel for twenty years, having joined as an apprenti ce in 2005. Celebrati ng her thirty-year milestone was Samantha Birdsey, (pictured above left , with Dame Irene Hays), a travel consultant at Hays Travel’s Darlington branch. milestones received a unique piece of Sunderland studio 16 MARCH 2025

This summer, your clients can take off to Halifax, Nova Scotia and discover some of Canada’s most spectacular scenery. Halifax boasts a bustling waterfront harbour, historic sites and delicious fresh-caught seafood. WestJet offers direct flights from Edinburgh to Halifax up to three times weekly, plus service from London Gatwick and Dublin. WestJet also flies from London Gatwick and Dublin to St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador. Your clients can also explore neighbouring provinces New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island to discover an entire region shaped by the ocean, complete with modern charm and some of the friendliest people on earth. Their Canadian adventure starts with WestJet. Explore our flight schedule to Atlantic Canada at westjet.com. Direct flights this summer. Take off to Halifax, Canada with WestJet. This summer, your clients can take off to Halifax, Nova Scotia and discover some of Canada’s most spectacular scenery. Halifax boasts a bustling waterfront harbour, historic sites and delicious fresh-caught seafood. WestJet offers direct flights from Edinburgh to Halifax up to three times weekly, plus service from London Gatwick and Dublin. WestJet also flies from London Gatwick and Dublin to St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador. Your clients can also explore neighbouring provinces New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island to discover an entire region shaped by the ocean, complete with modern charm and some of the friendliest people on earth. Their Canadian adventure starts with WestJet. Explore our flight schedule to Atlantic Canada at westjet.com.

With over 30 years of experti se, ANZCRO is the go-to partner for tailor-made travel to Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacifi c. We off er an extensive portf olio of 40,000+ travel products, from self-drive adventures and luxury lodges to guided tours and unique, off -the-beaten-path experiences. Whether your clients are seeking breathtaking landscapes, cultural encounters, or world-class food and wine, we have the connecti ons and experti se to create unforgett able iti neraries. Our trade-only approach means we work exclusively with travel agents, providing expert support and competi ti ve rates. With deep industry relati onships and indesti nati on knowledge, we make selling these incredible desti nati ons seamless and rewarding. Representi ng ANZCRO in Scotland and the North of the UK is Luke Ingram. Having lived in New Zealand for nearly 12 years and worked extensively in tourism, Luke has personally explored Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacifi c, bringing fi rst-hand insights and a true passion for these desti nati ons. Now based in the UK, Luke will be on hand to help Scotti sh agents grow their long-haul business with expert advice, training, and exclusive opportuniti es. Whether you’re looking to expand your Australia and New Zealand off ering or simply need a trusted partner for any Australasia enquiries, ANZCRO is here to support you. Get in touch today to discover how we can help you deliver unforgett able trips for your clients. Email: [email protected] Or contact our friendly reservati ons team: [email protected] Tel: 01872 266 899 Cowdenbeath-based travel agency, Moorelands Travel which is a franchise member of the Barrhead Travel Group, has opened a sensory room within its branch in a bid to support families with children who are neurodivergent or require special assistance. The sensory room is equipped with hearing loops, sensory toys and lights, bean bags, and a projector which can play all sensory sounds, graphics, movies and can be used with games consoles. It is located adjacent to a private travel appointment room to allow parents to sit with a consultant and plan their holiday while keeping an eye on their children. Managing Director Scott Paterson decided to transform the space, which was an old RBS vault, to help meet the needs of some of his regular clients. He says: “I’d been wondering for a while how I could best make use of the dormant vault which sat beside one of our offi ces. The idea came to me aft er noti cing that we were getti ng more enquiries and bookings with special assistance requests, parti cularly from families with hidden disabiliti es. “Coming into a busy retail store can be challenging for parents with neurodivergent children, so I started thinking about how we could create a safe, welcoming and calmer atmosphere within our branch. “Everyone should be able to enjoy the holiday booking experience and that is what we are trying to achieve with the opening of the sensory room. Hopefully we can make a litt le bit of a diff erence.” and New Zealand off ering partner for any Australasia © Tourism Australia © Desti nati on Queenstown UNFORGETTABLE TRIPS WITH MOORELANDS TRAVEL OPENS SENSORY ROOM safe, welcoming and calmer atmosphere opening of the sensory room. Hopefully we can make a litt le bit of a diff erence.” TRAVEL IS BETTER WITH FRIENDS 18 MARCH 2025

• Knowledgeable & Friendly Team: Offering personalized service and expert advice. • Local Offices in New Zealand & Australia: On-the-ground support for seamless travel. • Comprehensive Travel Options: From tailor-made holidays to rail journeys, cruises, day trips, and more. • Cost-Effective: Competitive pricing across a wide range of travel experiences. The Australia, New Zealand & South Pacific Holiday Experts Contact our Team Scotland Sales Manager: [email protected] Reservations Team: 01872-266-899 [email protected] www.anzcro.co.uk • Knowledgeable & Friendly Team: Offering personalized service and expert advice. • Local Offices in New Zealand & Australia: On-the-ground support for seamless travel. • Comprehensive Travel Options: From tailor-made holidays to rail journeys, cruises, day trips, and more. • Cost-Effective: Competitive pricing across a wide range of travel experiences. The Australia, New Zealand & South Pacific Holiday Experts Contact our Team Scotland Sales Manager: [email protected] Reservations Team: 01872-266-899 [email protected] www.anzcro.co.uk

DIARY OF EVENTS 2025 MARCH Thursday 27 March TIPTO Roadshow, Hilton Belfast APRIL Thursday 03 April Star Exhibiti on, Edinburgh Sheraton Monday 07 April San Diego Sales Event Wednesday 23 April TIPTO Roadshow, McDonald Inchyra Hotel, Falkirk Thursday 24 April TIPTO Roadshow, Malmaison, Dundee MAY Thursday 01 May SPAA Quiz, Glasgow 13 - 16 May Advantage Travel Partnership Conference, Malta Thursday 15 May Hablo Unplugged, Glasgow Wednesday 21 May Atlanti c Joint Venture Quiz, Glasgow Thursday 22 May Atlanti c Joint Venture Quiz, Edinburgh Thursday 29 May SPAA Summer in the City, Pavillion, Edinburgh JUNE Tuesday 10 June easyJet holidays Team Orange on Tour Roadshow, Newcastle Thursday 12 June SPAA Network Lunch, Glasgow JULY Wednesday 02 July Hablo Unplugged, Newcastle AUGUST Thursday 21 August SPAA Golf Day, Lanark Golf Course SEPTEMBER Friday 05 September Sparkle Awards, Radisson Blu, Glasgow Wednesday 17 September easyJet holidays Team Orange on Tour Roadshow, Glasgow Thursday 18 September easyJet holidays Team Orange on Tour Roadshow, Belfast Tuesday 23 September Star Exhibiti on, Chesters Hotel, Aberdeen Tuesday 30 September SPAA Network Lunch, Edinburgh NOVEMBER Thursday 06 November SPAA Awards, Doubletree by Hilton, Glasgow Wednesday 19 November Star Exhibiti on, Radisson Blu, Glasgow Thursday 20 November Hablo Unplugged, Edinburgh DECEMBER Thursday 04 December AGM / Christmas Lunch Citati on, Glasgow 20 MARCH 2025

Find that summer feeling in Canada With up to daily service from Edinburgh to Toronto starting April 3, 2025, explore the best of Canada and beyond with convenient connections across North America. Learn more at aircanada.com

Completely refurbished in 2023, this fi ve-star hotel is part of a resort in Riviera Maya, México, with 122 hectares that includes access to the faciliti es of Grand Palladium Colonial Resort & Spa and Grand Palladium White Sand Resort & Spa. Thanks to its recent refurbishment, Grand Palladium Kantenah Resort & Spa is the perfect equilibrium of class and comfort, introducing a new concept of luxury, one in which the enti re family can indulge in, but also ideal for couples, friends and special events alike. Grand Palladium Hotels & Resorts in the Riviera Maya stand out for their engaging acti viti es for children, their impressive wellness center - Zentropia Palladium Spa & Wellness - and dining opti ons. Surrounded by gardens, the hotel has 252 exquisitely decorated rooms that are centrally located within the resort. With their Dine Around programme, guests have the opportunity to sample all 11 restaurants, including 8 á la carte and 3 internati onal with show-cooking including: • El Dorado: A savoury steakhouse off ering the best grilled cuts. • La Adelita: authenti c Mexican fl avour with signature dishes such as northernstyle burritos and Margarita shrimp. • Sumptuori: Teppanyaki restaurant, with show cooking and Japanese specialti es. • Portofi no: A classic Italian restaurant with arti san pizza and delicious pasta, using only the freshest ingredients. • La Paisana: Argenti nian grill with a wide meat selecti on and traditi onal dishes. • Poseidón: Enjoy freshly grilled fi sh and exquisite rice dishes while dining at the lovely seaside terrace under the Mexican sky. • Chang Thai: Sweet, salty, spicy, and tangy, all combined in the most sophisti cated gastronomy of SouthEast Asia. Plus 16 uniquely themed bars - from swim-up, a sports bar and a number of lobby and waiti ng bars. Guests have access to 4 pools, direct entry to the beach and a number of sports and water acti viti es available, as well as Children’s clubs for babies, kids and teenagers. And adults can lay back, relax, and luxuriate in Zentropia Palladium Spa & Wellness* with a hydrotherapy area with pool, hot tub, steam baths, wet and dry sauna, and waterfalls. Not forgetti ng the special restaurants that combine gastronomy and performance shows. At Chic Cabaret & Restaurant*, an impressive adults-only gastro-show, each night is a surprising party of fl avours, music and dance - a three hour-long show with more than 20 arti sts on stage, welcome cocktail and unlimited premium beverages and varied gourmet menu. The Bravo Dinner & Dance* is where the music, gastronomy and party merge in one place and an atmosphere of fun for the enti re family, with classics of the ‘80s and and a unique display of singers and dancers. And, newly opened, Riviera Maya, welcomes Le Peti t Chef*. Come and enjoy an immersive culinary experience that will awaken all your senses, where its litt le Chef takes you on a visual adventure while you enjoy the exquisite dishes prepared for you. Enjoy your stay with INFINITE INDULGENCE®. It’s all included. *Extra charge applies and reservati ons required GRAND PALLADIUM KANTENAH RESORT & SPA Poseidón 22 MARCH 2025

COSTA MUJERES, CANCUN (MEXICO), PUNTA CANA, CAP CANA (THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC), RIVIERA MAYA (MEXICO) and IBIZA (SPAIN). Now you can indulge your most sophisticated desires in TRS Turquesa Hotel. Personalised services, Zentropia Palladium Spa & Wellness, international a la carte restaurants, butler, incredible pools and Chic Cabaret & Restaurant wait for you on your luxury vacation in the Caribbean, in a safe and protected environment full of nature and tranquility, for adults only. With Infinite Indulgence®, it’s all included. For more information, visit PALLADIUMHOTELGROUP.COM or contact your favourite travel agent. Boundless leisure at TRS Turquesa Hotel

The Virgin Atlantic and Delta Air Lines Runway Roadshow hosted agents in Edinburgh to showcase all their latest products and destinations SNAPSHOTS 24 MARCH 2025

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100 YEARS OF FLIGHT. WHAT’S NEW FOR DELTA’S CENTENNIAL YEAR? It’s almost 100 years since Huff Daland Dusters, Delta Air Lines’ predecessor, was founded. Since then, the U.S. carrier has grown to be one of the world’s largest internati onal airlines. This summer Delta will operate its largest-ever schedule across the Atlanti c, off ering more than 700 weekly fl ights from 33 European desti nati ons, including nonstop service from Edinburgh to three U.S. gateways. Delta’s services from Edinburgh to New York-JFK resume in March 2025, followed by fl ights to Atlanta and Boston in April and May respecti vely - connecti ng customers to over 200 desti nati ons across America and beyond. Here’s a look ahead to what’s in store for customers fl ying Delta in the airline’s centennial year. New Look Delta is introducing a new cabin interior with a modern design that will signifi cantly enhance the onboard experience for customers. Starti ng with its B757 and A350 aircraft , every aspect has been carefully planned and thoughtf ully redesigned with a new colour palett e, branded elements and seat tags that create subtle disti ncti ons between cabins. Breathable seat fabrics, comfortable memory-foam cushions on widebody jets, and lighti ng that promotes relaxati on by creati ng a warm, calming and atmospheric environment will span the fl eet. Additi onal aircraft will receive the new cabin design as Delta’s schedule and operati on allows over the next few years. Exclusive Lounges A premium lounge experience now awaits in the brand-new Delta One® Lounges in Boston, New York-JFK and Los Angeles. Exclusively for Delta One passengers, the new lounges feature luxurious design elements that refl ect each city’s unique characteristi cs and off er an elevated prefl ight experience including fi ne dining and spa-like wellness treatments. The new lounges feature customised design elements by luxury Italian fashion house, Missoni, which has also designed the new Delta One amenity kits that are taking haute couture to high alti tude. Free Wi-Fi Gate-to-gate Wi-Fi connecti vity allows SkyMiles® members to connect during travel and spend their ti me in a way that suits them - just like they would at home - for free. Already installed across Delta’s domesti c route network, free Delta Sync Wi-Fi is available on fl ights from the UK, France and Germany and will be fully rolled out across all internati onal fl ights keeping customers connected across their journey. Follow Delta’s 100th anniversary year at news.delta.com 26 MARCH 2025

STENA LINE - FERRY TRAVEL REDEFINED Don’t just travel, sail between Scotland & Ireland up to 12 ti mes daily with Stena Line! At Stena Line you’re not just a passenger, you’re our guest. Nothing is too much trouble for our team who are happy to go the extra mile for you. Relax into a comfy seat, get cosy in the Living Room, or put your feet up in the tranquil Hygge Recline Lounge*. How about treati ng yourself to the exclusive Stena Plus Lounge with its complimentary drinks and snacks, and unique menu served to your seat? The latest fi lms await in our Movie Lounges, all free. Stock up on great value shopping. Browse our wide range of designer fragrances, cosmeti cs, tech, spirits, and toys. There are plenty of inspiring gift ideas and always bargains to be had. Follow this with a leisurely drink at the bar. Enjoy a delicious meal in our restaurant, let the kids have fun in Happy World or the Game Zone. On our ships from Cairnryan to Belfast, children of all ages can enjoy the fun and games of our POD lounge with its interacti ve screens and fl oor. You can see our Scandinavian roots in the stylish interior design of all our ships. Light and airy, with plenty of space and oh-so comfortable. Treat yourself to a pampering session in our Pure Nordic Spa*. Take a dip in the Jacuzzi, enjoy some ti me out in the sauna or book in for a treatment. Best choice for pets Everyone deserves a relaxing, carefree break away - especially our four-legged friends! We want your pets to enjoy their ti me onboard as much as you do, and so on our Cairnryan to Belfast route we off er a pre-bookable pet lounge* where you can spend quality ti me with your pet as you travel in comfort. If you prefer, you can leave them in your vehicle for free. See www.stenaline. co.uk/pets for further details. Of course, Guide, Hearing and Assistance dogs have full access at our ports and onboard our ships, and we are proud to have signed the Guide Dog Travel Charter. A choice of great value fares Go your own way with our choice of fares! Choose the luxury of Premium, which includes Stena Plus Lounge access and express boarding and disembarkati on. What about the freedom of Flexi or the value of Economy? However, you choose to travel with us, there are no baggage restricti ons** or baggage charges, just fi ll up the car and pack whatever you need! We’re easy to get to... Our Cairnryan Terminal is easy to get to from all over Scotland with the following drive ti mes: Ayr 1 hour 10 minutes Glasgow 2 hours Sti rling 2 hours 25 minutes Perth 2 hours 55 minutes Edinburgh 3 hours 10 minutes Dundee 3 hours 25 minutes And when you arrive in Belfast you are a short drive from: Belfast City Centre 15 minutes Bangor 30 minutes Derry/Londonderry 1 hour 25 minutes Lett erkenny 2 hours Dublin 2 hours 10 minutes *Additi onal charge payable **If travelling by car 28 MARCH 2025

BOOK NOW FOR 2025! HOLYHEAD – DUBLIN | FISHGUARD – ROSSLARE CAIRNRYAN – BELFAST | LIVERPOOL – BELFAST HARWICH – HOOK OF HOLLAND Subject to availability. stenaline.co.uk/agent Book now BOOK EARLY & SAVE! IRELAND OR HOLLAND

JUMEIRAH GULF OF BAHRAIN - A TRANQUIL COASTAL RETREAT IN BAHRAIN Believed to be the former heart of the Dilmun Empire, which dominated the Arabian Gulf over 4,000 years ago, the archipelago of Bahrain is a historically colourful desti nati on. Jumeirah Gulf of Bahrain is an idyllic getaway situated majesti cally on the shores of the Gulf and takes its architectural inspirati on from the gentle movements of the sea. The resort’s cluster of villas and elegantly designed rooms, along with the awardwinning Talise Spa, off ers a sanctuary for travellers looking to recharge and embark on a journey for wellbeing. Bahrain presents itself as a desti nati on for the ulti mate Middle Eastern experience, with its rich heritage of beauti ful forts and charming bazaars blending perfectly with an inspirati onal vision for the future. The resort harmonises Jumeirah’s promise of unparalleled hospitality with the wonder of the desti nati on, providing a true beachside escape in the heart of culture. Set to exceed all guest expectati ons, the resort and spa is an oasis for natureloving friends, families and couples hoping to disconnect from the chaos of everyday life. The resort embodies the spirit of Bahrain, taking design and architectural inspirati on from the harmonious movements of the sea and the soothing ripples of its waters. Every room and suite off er sweeping views of the Gulf, the resort’s verdant emerald gardens or the waterways of the canals. Guests will be welcomed to the hotel lobby with blue hues and a prismati c mother of pearl lighti ng installati on suspended from the ceiling. The sandy shades of the surrounding landscape are incorporated into fl oors, panels and furniture across the resort. Intricate stone carvings found in arched hallways, pavilions and doorways resemble the local architectural styles of Bahrain’s streets and forts. The resort’s design also pays homage to the country’s fi shermen and their boats, which can easily be spott ed sailing past the resort. The architecture celebrates the connecti ons humans have historically held with nature in the region. MIDDLE EAST 30 MARCH 2025

For barefoot luxury - a sanctuary where families and loved ones can make meaningful memories. Each of the 19 villas features generous living spaces and stylish modern interiors with elegant Arabesque fi nishes, all with private outdoor terraces and plunge pools off ering striking views of the iconic Jumeirah Burj Al Arab. With dedicated villa butlers, complimentary airport transfers and exclusive access to the Al Bahar Club Lounge. Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Dubai New Al Bahar Villas Now Open www.jumeirah.com

EMIRATES AIRBUS A350-900 CURRENTLY OPERATING DAILY - EDINBURGH - DUBAI - EDINBURGH By Gary Reavely Emirates have not introduced a new aircraft type into their fl eet since 2008 so it was with much fanfare that they took delivery in November 2024 of their fi rst A350 - from the 65 that they have on order - and Edinburgh had the accolade of being the fi rst route the aircraft operated revenue service on. During the planning process for the introducti on of the A350, they looked at every detail in the aircraft , from the cabins and galleys, to the toilets and crew areas, so that they could deliver the best infl ight passenger service as well as add some innovati ve features. The airline’s award winning ICE (Informati on Communicati on and Entertainment) system has been extensively upgraded and now off ers 6,500 channels including 2,405 movies. These are shown in all classes on a 4K UHD ultra-responsive touchscreen and an eye comfort mode. There are USB and universal AC sockets and if you wish, you can pair your own Bluetooth headphones. A ‘grab a snack’ area in the aft galley is a fi rst for Economy Class passengers. The on board high speed Viasat Global Express system promises uninterrupted satellite connecti vity and with fi ve external cameras, you can enjoy some great views, especially on take off and landing. When you step on board the aircraft you are immediately struck by the sense of space - extra high ceilings with sculpted overhead bins, and wider aisles in all classes. A brighter colour scheme was chosen for the seats, carpeti ng and aircraft walls plus there is patt erned ambient mood ceiling lighti ng as well as the fantasti c AerBlade window shade technology which can be found on private jets. The aircraft features 2 confi gurati ons - Standard (15 of the fl eet) - as operated on the EDI route, carrying a maximum of 312 passengers - 32 Business - 21 Premium Economy and 259 in Economy. The second version (50 aircraft ) will be operated on longer sectors carrying 298 passengers - J32 - Y+ 28 - Y238. A350 Business Class 32 Sarfran soft cream leather seats are in a 1-2-1 confi gurati on featuring direct aisle access from every seat. The 78.6 inch long seat converts into a fully fl at bed with secured stowage for personal items. Seat width is 20.5 inches with a stati c 23 inch touch screen display and wireless charging facility. Every seat is equipped with its own mini bar. The absence of centre overhead bins makes it also feel incredibly spacious. A350 Premium Economy Class 21 Recaro PL3530 seats in a 2-3-2 seati ng confi gurati on. The seats feature 6 way adjustable headrest, calf rest, footrest and retractable bi folding table. The seat pitch is 39 inches, seat width is 19.5 inches wide with an 8 degree recline. There is a pivoti ng 13.3 inch touch screen display and a side cocktail table. Emirates are already seeing very strong demand for this cabin on the route. A350 Economy Class 259 seats in a 3-3-3 confi gurati on. The seat features a brand new 6 way adjustable headrest design with full neck support for a bett er sleep and a bi folding table. Seat pitch is 31 to 32 inches, seat width is 18 inches with a recline of 6 inches. The IFE can be viewed via a 13.3 inch pivoti ng screen display. The Airbus A350 is fast and fuel effi cient and features a very eff ecti ve jet lag reducing air conditi oning system as well as the quietest twin aisle cabin in the sky. MIDDLE EAST 32 MARCH 2025

EXOTICCA: INSPIRE EXTRAORDINARY TRAVEL & EARN MORE When it comes to off ering your customers extraordinary travel experiences, Exoti cca is your perfect partner. Our expertly curated iti neraries are designed to make it easier for travel agents to sell dream holidays, while earning full commission on all components, including airfare and taxes. With a seamless booking process and exclusive discounts, there has never been a bett er ti me to introduce your customers to Exoti cca’s unforgett able journeys. Why Sell Exoti cca? Exoti cca makes it incredibly easy for travel agents to inspire their clients while maximising their earnings. With a user-friendly booking system, top-ti er commissions, and enti cing promoti ons, now is the ideal ti me to encourage your clients to embark on their next great adventure. Whether your clients are seasoned explorers or fi rst-ti me travellers, our wide range of expertly designed iti neraries will help them discover new desti nati ons and make lifelong memories. By recommending Exoti cca, you’re off ering not only a memorable travel experience but also a lucrati ve opportunity for yourself. Our iti neraries are carefully craft ed to provide unique and immersive experiences, ensuring that travellers enjoy a stress-free journey from start to fi nish. Each tour includes everything needed for a seamless trip, from accommodati ons to guided excursions, and even special acti viti es designed to enhance the travel experience. This comprehensive approach makes Exoti cca a go-to choice for both seasoned travellers and those looking to explore something new. Travel agents will also appreciate the convenience of working with a company that off ers a hassle-free booking process. From the moment a client expresses interest in a desti nati on to the fi nal booking, Exoti cca ensures that every step is smooth and straightf orward. As a result, you can focus on what matt ers most - helping your clients create unforgett able travel memories. Discover Your Next Extraordinary Experience with Everything Included If your clients are seeking an unforgett able journey, look no further than Exoti cca’s incredible array of desti nati ons. From the majesti c temples of Egypt to the vibrant citi es of Asia, we off er exclusive iti neraries designed to capti vate and inspire. Every journey ensures that your clients enjoy a stressfree and enriching experience from beginning to end. Great Pyramids & Full-Board Nile Cruise Egypt in 8 Days Wonders of the Pharaohs Now is the perfect ti me to invite your clients to explore Egypt’s ti meless wonders. This capti vati ng 8-day adventure combines iconic landmarks with a luxurious Full-Board Nile River cruise. From the bustling streets of Cairo to the ancient treasures of Luxor, your clients will experience the magic of Egypt in a way few others ever do. This immersive journey allows travellers to walk in the footsteps of the Pharaohs, uncovering the secrets of the Great Pyramids, the Sphinx, and the Valley of the Kings. They will enjoy a 3 or 4-night Full-Board Nile cruise, taking in the breathtaking sights of Aswan, Kom Ombo, Edfu, and the legendary temples of Luxor. Whether exploring these ancient wonders on land or by river, this trip off ers a once-in-a-lifeti me experience. In additi on to the stunning archaeological sites, travellers will have the opportunity to indulge in great accommodati ons, enjoy exquisite meals, and be guided by experts who bring Egypt’s fascinati ng history to life. Exoti cca’s classic Egypti an tour is designed for those seeking an authenti c, unforgett able journey. From start to fi nish, this experience promises to create memories that will last a lifeti me. MIDDLE EAST 34 MARCH 2025

EXTRAORDINARY TRAVEL CRAFTERS Meet your next top seller: Wonders of the Hashemite Kingdom! A captivating 16-day adventure across Egypt & Jordan; including the Great Pyramids, a Full-Board Nile River cruise, Petra, an overnight stay in the Wadi Rum desert, and so much more! This action-packed trip guarantees unforgettable memories. Ready to boost your salesff Sell two World Wonders in one trip! Scan to learn more or call us at +44 20 4571 6769 to speak to an expert

Atlanti s, The Palm has unveiled the newly renovated Atlanti s Explorers Club, setti ng a new standard for family vacati ons with a blend of educati onal and recreati onal acti viti es. Spanning 1,798 square meters, the club is designed for children ages 4 to 12, off ering them opportuniti es to explore, learn, and create. There’s also a soft play area for toddlers (ages 0-3) with indoor and outdoor spaces for supervised fun. The club features 10 play spaces: “Litt le Foodies” for culinary workshops; “Explorers Town” for role-play; “Acti on Stati on” for high-energy acti viti es; “The Snug” for quiet reading; “Craft Stati on” for arti sti c expression, and a “Gaming Stati on” for immersive play. Each area is designed to engage children in various ways, fostering creati vity, teamwork, and imaginati on. Unique programmes, such as “Meet the Experts,” provide direct interacti ons with marine biologists and conservati onists, emphasising environmental stewardship. The Explorers Club employs a team of 80 certi fi ed professionals fl uent in 25 languages ensuring a safe and enriching experience for all children. The “Litt le Explorers” area off ers a secure, sti mulati ng environment for toddlers, complete with a nursing room and professional babysitti ng services. Parents can enjoy peace of mind while their children parti cipate in supervised acti viti es. The Explorers Club’s fl exible approach to learning allows children to choose acti viti es that interest them, promoti ng creati vity and independence. With a wide range of acti viti es and personalised care, the Atlanti s Explorers Club is an immersive desti nati on where children can enjoy a world-class experience, allowing parents to relax and enjoy the resort’s ameniti es, making it an ideal spot for family vacati ons. ENJOY A WORLD CLASS EXPERIENCE AT THE ALL-NEW ATLANTIS EXPLORERS CLUB for role-play; “Acti on Stati on” for high-energy acti viti es; Stati on” for arti sti c expression, and a area is designed to engage children fostering creati vity, teamwork, and emphasising environmental stewardship. enriching experience recreati onal acti viti es. outdoor spaces for supervised fun. The club features 10 play DUBAI SEES SURGE IN UK VISITORS Dubai welcomed 1,327,000 UK visitors from January to December 2024, a 14% year-over-year increase that surpasses the previous year of 1,169,000 in 2023, according to data from the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). Marking consecuti ve years of record-setti ng growth for the city, the UK remains a top source market. On an internati onal level, Dubai welcomed 18.72 million internati onal overnight visitors from January to December 2024, a 9% increase of 17.15 million in 2023. Hotels contributed signifi cantly to the city’s performance, with a series of high-profi le new openings – including One&Only One Za’abeel, SIRO One Za’abeel, and The Lana Dorchester Collecti on. Dubai’s hotel inventory at the end of December 2024 comprised 154,016 total available rooms across 832 establishments, compared to 150,291 rooms at 821 establishments in 2023. A number of new properti es are also in the pipeline, such as the upcoming Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab and the Mandarin Oriental Downtown. Extensive infrastructure developments are also scheduled and work has started on the new AED 128 billion passenger terminal at Al Maktoum Internati onal Airport (DWC), which will be the largest in the world when fully operati onal and will enable the airport to handle a passenger capacity of 260 million annually. Aligned with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan and supporti ng initi ati ves to transform Dubai into a ‘20-Minute City’, Dubai Metro’s Blue Line extension will stretch 30 kilometres and connect 14 stati ons. LIFE IS SHORT MAKE EVERY DAY AN ADVENTURE MIDDLE EAST 36 MARCH 2025

IMPERIAL CLUB You know what they say: it’s the little things that make a big difference and we’ve got the little luxuries sorted. Imperial Club is a must for the discerning traveller, raising the bar of VIP experiences and transforming a splendid stay into an unforgettable getaway. The jewel in this particular crown? That will be the ultraelegant Imperial Club Lounge, a refined retreat with convenience, comfort and style embedded in every strand of its DNA. A range of amazing benefits includes a dedicated team to provide personalised service from the moment guests enter, private check-in and check-out, afternoon tea in the distinguished Imperial Club Lounge and much more. A World Away Nestled between the turquoise waters of the Arabian Gulf and majestic Dubai skyline, Atlantis, The Palm is an iconic destination resort that will take you a world away! SIGNATURE SUITES Atlantis, The Palm is home to some of the most elegant hotel rooms in Dubai, designed to immerse guests in absolute comfort and unparalleled luxury. This includes the resort’s six Signature Suites, which are designed for guests who expect nothing but the very best. With suites including The Underwater, The Grand Atlantis and The Presidential, each hotel suite offers a truly distinctive take on luxury and opulence. All the Signature Suites at Atlantis, The Palm were refurbished during 2020 with updates to décor and style, making them even more special and extraordinary than ever before. For more information, visit: www.atlantis.com/atlantis-the-palm

MARCH CAMPAIGN FROM EMIRATES Emirates’ latest campaign encourages customers to experience Dubai in March. From restaurants, bars and nightlife to shopping and spa experiences, visitors can enjoy all the experiences that the city off ers year-round, as well as the warm weather, and the cultural extravaganza as Ramadan is celebrated. Visitors can enjoy a number of acti viti es including: • Visit The Fort - Lisaili: Just 40 minutes from downtown Dubai, The Fort - Lisaili is a great introducti on to the desert in a family-friendly, Bedouin-inspired environment. Camel rides, taking part in traditi ons such as henna painti ng, or enjoying a BBQ buff et dinner under a skylit sky are all available. • Aquaventure World: With 105 diff erent slides alongside opportuniti es to get up close and personal with dolphins and sea lions, March is the perfect ti me to cool off in the adventure packed Aquaventure World. • Dubai Desert Conservati on Reserve: One of the largest protected nature reserves in the UAE, this beauti ful landscape off ers desert adventures such as safaris, falconry, and horse and camel riding. Families can also enjoy a range of Ramadan experiences including spectacular Lantern Displays, Ramadan Markets, as well as Late-Night Celebrati ons. Customers fl ying to or through Dubai can simply show their boarding pass and a valid form of identi fi cati on to hundreds of retail, leisure, and dining outlets, as well as famous att racti ons and luxury spas, to enjoy special discounts. DUBAI INCENTIVE FROM IF ONLY If Only are giving agents the chance to win a £250 gift voucher in each quarter of 2025 for bookings made to Dubai. The operator will focus on the luxurious hotels that make up Dubai’s iconic skyline plus desert retreats for customers looking to get away from it all and experience the natural side of the Dubai desert. For those looking to travel further, Dubai is a great stopover desti nati on for long-haul journeys to the likes of the Indian Ocean, South East Asia and Australia to break up the journey. Agents will have the chance to win a prize each quarter to the value of £250, such as gift vouchers for Pandora, Dining Out, a luxury spa break and aft ernoon tea. The fi rst prize for the fi rst quarter is a £250 Pandora gift voucher and to enter, agents simply need to make as many bookings as possible to Dubai unti l 31 March 2025 and the top booker during this booking window will win the grand prize. Find out more at htt ps://www.ifonly.net/agents/incenti ves If Only are currently off ering a 7-night stay for two adults and one child under 12 at 5* Raffl es The Palm, Dubai priced from £4,719 per family of three including a complimentary night with additi onal rate reducti ons. The price is based on a Raffl es Club Ocean Room, including a complimentary upgrade to half board dine around, return fl ights, private transfers and Raffl es legendary butler service. The price also includes Club benefi ts such as daily access to the club lounge, dedicated check-in/out area and four culinary presentati ons throughout the day. Children can enjoy complimentary access to The Young Voyager Kids Club. dinner under a skylit sky are all available. Aquaventure World: packed Aquaventure World. If Only are currently off ering a 7-night stay for two adults upgrade to half board dine around, return fl ights, private MIDDLE EAST 38 MARCH 2025

Seek the unexpected aldhafraresort.com Discover Aldhafra Resort, a tranquil retreat on the edge of the Empty Quarter, where the mesmerizing golden dunes unfold before you, blending modern Arabian comfort with the peaceful rhythm of the desert. Pre-opening Offer Book your stay with breakfast and enjoy a complimentary dinner. Guests can enjoy 2 complimentary experiences with a stay: • A camel ride • A majestic falcon show • Arabic gahwa tasting • Sand artistry • Wellness session Scan to avail the offer: For more information and bookings, please email: [email protected] or [email protected]

Your products are a great sales opportunity for the trade – what support can you off er agents? At Celestyal, we provide comprehensive support for our travel trade partners, including access to webinars, personalised training sessions, and marketi ng tools to help agents eff ecti vely promote our cruises. We now off er a new one-stop dedicated agent portal, Celestyal Compass, which provides access to the latest campaigns, images, training modules, and more. We want our valued agent community to know that we always have their backs. They will have all the support they need with a dedicated trade support team of sales and marketi ng partners, with people on hand to assist with queries and bookings. And we will always show our appreciati on. We truly value our trade relati onships, and we like to show it. We do this with competi ti ve commercial incenti ves on cruise and pre-purchase ancillaries, competi ti ve rates, price parity and training incenti ves and rewards on the new agent portal and agent social groups. And we oft en surprise our agents with litt le gift s, just to let them know we value their support. What can you off er agents interested in group departures? At Celestyal we love groups! Our teams at sea and ashore are real experts in handling all aspects of group business. We off er att racti ve pricing and benefi ts for group bookings, along with customisable experiences that include opti ons for pre- and post-cruise hotels, private transfers, tailored shore excursions, onboard events, and private land dining and events. Additi onally, we have a specialised group support team to assist with and streamline the booking process. Tell us about your 7-night and shorter Athens-to-Athens Greek Island cruises - what makes them so successful? Athens is one of our seasonal homeports, so we really are the regional experts on our home turf. Our Athens-to-Athens cruises remain popular because they combine the real iconic desti nati ons like Santorini and Mykonos, with more hidden gems such as Patmos and Milos. This is synonymous with a Celestyal cruise, where we aim to bring our guests the bucket list ports as well as the less travelled islands that can be accessed with our bouti que fl eet of small-mid sized ships. We create unmissable experiences at sea and ashore, so desti nati on immersion is just as important to us as the personal ship experience that we off er. Guests enjoy authenti c excursions, with desti nati on experts that have a long-standing partnership with Celestyal. We off er onboard Greek-themed acti viti es and locally inspired cuisine. The cruises also off er out-of-this-world value, including all meals, midday fare from a Greek Deli or Pizza Oven, unlimited fi ltered coff ee, tea, water, juice, and free-pour sodas during meals, as well as entertainment, essenti al Wi-Fi, and bookable excursions. All port fees and gratuiti es are included as well, enhancing the overall value. Your move to base two ships in the Arabian Gulf for sunshine cruising - Doha to Doha or Dubai to Dubai - was a signifi cant step for Celestyal. What was the thinking behind this? 86% of our guests tell us that they would return to sail with Celestyal if we off ered more desti nati ons. They asked and we delivered. We know that the Arabian Gulf is the next hot desti nati on for cruise, and we aim to be at the forefront of this and deliver more of what our guests and agents love about Celestyal in a year-round operati on on both of our ships. Desti nati ons, such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Doha, blend modern luxury with ancient traditi ons, off ering rich cultural experiences as well as guaranteed winter sunshine. These locati ons also benefi t from excellent fl ight connecti ons from the UK, making them highly accessible to travellers. And much like our Mediterranean programme, we home port in the region, to ensure we off er our guests a deep immersion into the desti nati ons we visit, and a mix of the icons and hidden gems. And we are off to a roaring start with Celestyal Journey completi ng her inaugural Desert Days season in March this year, so much so that we extended the season, and then we are back in December, where she will be joined by her fl eet mate, Celestyal Discovery. Tell us about Celestyal Pay, which you have recently introduced. How does it work? CelestyalPay is a dedicated pre-paid food and drink tab designed to off er guests greater fl exibility and value during their cruise. Guests can pre-purchase credit and in return receive cash bonuses to enhance their onboard experience, with opti ons ranging a €15 bonus if you preload €100, up to a €250 bonus if you preload €1,000. The CelestyalPay credit can be used for speciality dining and award-winning drinks, allowing guests the freedom to enjoy indulgences of their choice. All pre-purchased CelestyalPay credit is fully commissionable, providing an additi onal benefi t for travel agents. CONTACT: DANIELLE RADFORD Business Development Manager Email: [email protected] WITH... CELESTYAL SALESMATTERS MIDDLE EAST 40 MARCH 2025

Love your Vacation Dream per twin cabin On select sailings up to €200 of CelestyalPay ^ Your drink and speciality dining tab *^† Ts&Cs apply On select sailings up to Free Upgrades From interior to exterior † Savings of up to 50%* Ts&Cs apply 7 Nights Desert Days cruise from only £569pp Join us on Facebook for the latest information, promotions and more. Opportunities to earn even more commission on your bookings by selling shore excursions, stateroom upgrades and CelestyalPay credit in advance ensuring the very best value for you and your guests. £25 Love2Shop voucher for any bookings made until 16th March Visit our new Trade Portal ‘Celestyal Compass’ to download our Marketing Toolkit today celestyalcompass.com Celestyals new pre-purchase drinks and specialty dining tab

GREAT NIGHT AT THE ANNUAL TRAVEL COUNSELLORS BURNS NIGHT, EXPERTLY ORGANISED BY MURIEL MORGAN SNAPSHOTS 42 MARCH 2025

travelmatt ers.biz 43

60 SECONDS NAME THREE FAMOUS PEOPLE THAT YOU WOULD LIKE TO HAVE DINNER WITH. Freddie Laker - as a true pioneer, I would love to hear his stories and his thoughts on travel now. Elizabeth I - to succeed in a man’s world then was diffi cult but what she achieved was truly remarkable. And Peter Kay - for some fun and entertainment! DO YOU HAVE A FAVOURITE DESTINATION? Southwest Florida beach resorts - always! DO YOU HAVE ANY HIDDEN TALENTS OR SOMETHING THAT PEOPLE WOULD BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU? I took up golf pre-covid and then stopped but do intend to go back to it. The 19th hole is probably the appeal. WHAT WAS THE BEST PIECE OF BUSINESS ADVICE THAT YOU WERE EVER GIVEN? Follow your own path and people buy from people. TELL US ABOUT YOUR CAREER IN TRAVEL. I started at 16 as a trainee in a local Larkhall travel agency (part of a Temperance Society) and was completely hooked! I then moved on to work for an independent company - Sun Travel in Cambuslang - who sold out to Lunn Poly. Aft er about 18 months, I then worked at Larkhall Travel, Prenti ce Travel then back to Larkhall Travel who by then changed their name to Cambuslang Travel. I spent fi ve years at Keane to Travel before opening my own business The Holiday and Flight Centre in 2002. WHAT WAS THE LAST MUSIC EVENT THAT YOU ATTENDED? Texas at the Hydro last September - they were amazing. I was a massive Texas fan when I was younger and it just took me back. THE MOST MEMORABLE HOTEL THAT YOU HAVE EVER STAYED IN? Ritz Carlton, in Naples, Florida. The setti ng right on the beach is very special and Naples itself is a lovely resort with nice bars and restaurants. DO YOU HAVE A GUILTY PLEASURE? Watching murder mystery dramas like Vera and Midsomer Murders with a cup of tea and a biscuit! MOST UNUSUAL REQUEST YOU HAVE EVER RECEIVED FROM A CLIENT? An unusual request doesn’t come to mind but my funny story would be telling a customer they had won a watch aft er being given an upgrade and they came in and seriously asked for the free watch! WHAT ABOUT A FAVOURITE MEAL AND TIPPLE? Has to be a steak and a gin and tonic. ANY FAVOURITE MOVIES? The Godfather trilogy. I love a movie about the mafi a. DO YOU HAVE A FAVOURITE BINGE TELEVISION SERIES? At the moment The Old Man on Disney and The Diplomat on Netf lix. WHO INSPIRES YOU? Anyone who has overcome adversity in their life. WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO ANYONE JOINING THE TRAVEL INDUSTRY? Embrace everything the industry has to off er including trips, training, and meeti ng new people, some of whom will become friends for life. But always remember you will only ever get out of life what you put in. IF TIME, DISTANCE AND COST WERE NO OBJECT, WHAT WOULD BE YOUR PERFECT DAY? Wake up in a beauti ful Italian port on a Silversea ship with breakfast in Atlanti de to start my day, cocktails, lunch and sunbathing at the Ritz Carlton, Naples. Cocktails in Raffl es Bar Singapore, dinner at Los Abanicos in Benahavis, Spain and then party in Ibiza unti l the early hours! ROSEANNE RATTER Director Holiday & Flight Centre with... 44 MARCH 2025

THE BEST MEMORIES ARE MADE FROM PERFECT DETAILS. Offer your clients an unparalleled travel experience with the first six-star slow luxury cruises. Riverside Luxury Cruises on Europe’s most beautiful rivers delight the senses with outstanding cuisine and unforgettable experiences. Journeys that take them to new destinations – and bring them home to yourself.

Travel Department, the award-winning specialists in guided group holidays, is now off ering its worldwide portf olio of award-winning Escorted Tours to Irish travel agents following on from the success of launching to UK agents in 2023. It has appointed Brian Fulton as Key Account and Business Development Manager for Ireland (also covering Northern Ireland) as well as Gemma Walker as Trade Sales Manager for Scotland. Both will be tasked with increasing the footprint of acti ve agents, recruiti ng new partners and working with key accounts to drive increased revenues from Travel Department’s extensive worldwide programme from its Dublin, Belfast, Edinburgh and Glasgow departure hubs. “We are delighted to have a dedicated team in place to support the further growth of our trade channel in both the UK and Ireland and are ready to press forward with the next phase of our trade strategy with two very experienced appointments for the business. Brian and Gemma are well known to agents and their experti se will be vital in helping broaden our brand footprint,” comments James Coughlan, CEO, Travel Department. Stephen Mills who was previously responsible for the development of the Travel Department within the agent channel has left the business. In additi on to these latest developments, Travel Department has also unveiled an upgrade to their Agent Booking Portal, designed to enhance the booking experience for travel agents and their customers. The innovati ve portal streamlines the booking process, giving agents the tools to easily highlight all elements of a customer’s holiday, from expertly craft ed iti neraries to included excursions, accommodati on, and fl ights, all in real-ti me. “Our new Agent Booking Portal refl ects our dedicati on to supporti ng travel agents as valued partners,” adds James. “It provides a seamless, intuiti ve experience, empowering agents to deliver excepti onal service and detailed holiday insights to their customers.” For more informati on visit www.traveldepartment.co.uk or contact [email protected]. Brian Fulton Gemma Walker TRAVEL DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCES NEW TRADE SALES STRUCTURE AND TRADE OFFERING TO IRISH AGENTS AND LAUNCHES NEW AGENT BOOKING PORTAL FOLLOWING RECORD GROWTH IN TRADE SALES Small group escorted tour operator, Jules Verne off ers authenti c travel via air, road, rail and river, visiti ng iconic landmarks and lesser-known sites with expert tour guides who share their local knowledge. The operator works with local tour guides and communiti es to craft tours for small groups of around 15 travellers, which reveal the heart of each desti nati on, and include special events and litt le extras. For example, on the 11-night The Golden Road to Samarkand guests can experience Uzbekistan’s Silk Road citi es, starti ng in metropolitan Tashkent and then visiti ng Old Khiva, with its towers and cupolas, before crossing the Kyzylkum Desert to Bukhara, followed by Samarkand. Highlights include visiti ng three UNESCO sites, eati ng pilov in the home of a local family, enjoying a high-speed train journey, shopping in local bazaars and visiti ng a number of beauti ful madrasahs, mosques and minarets. Several departures are available in 2025, including 02, 9, 16 & 23 May; 06 & 27 June; 11 July; 15 August; 05, 12, 19 & 26 September; 03, 10, 17 & 24 October and 07 November 2025. No single supplement opti ons and solo group departures are also available and the tour includes air travel and taxes, transfers, 10 nights’ accommodati on, breakfast daily, one lunch and nine dinners, along with the services of guides and local representati ves. GET TO THE HEART OF THE DESTINATION WITH JULES VERNE 46 MARCH 2025 ESCORTED HOLIDAYS

SAVE UP TO £100* PER PERSON Discover MORE IN 2025 MANY DESTINATIONS TO DISCOVER FLIGHTS, ACCOMMODATION, EXCURSIONS & EXPERTLY GUIDED Find out more and Contact our Dedicated Trade Sales Team Brian Fulton Key Account & Business Development Manager Call: +353 1 637 1600 e-mail: [email protected] Gemma Walker Trade Sales Manager (Scotland) Call: 0131 608 1235 e-mail: [email protected] Visit our website: traveldepartment.co.uk Booking Terms & Conditions: Operated by Travel Department. ATOL Protected 9373. Prices are per person and based on two sharing. Single room supplements apply (excluding Solo Traveller tours). A nonrefundable/non-transferable deposit is required to book. Balances are due 10 weeks before departure date. Prices, taxes, flight times, holiday details & availability are subject to change. Prices subject to airline fuel surcharges. *Offer valid for all new bookings made between 18th Mar and 07th Apr 2025. Save £75pp on Italy, Spain and Portugal holidays of 7 nights or more using code TOP75. Save £100pp on long holidays of ? nights or more using code TOP100. Offers are non-transferable, subject to availability, cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer, and have no cash value. E&OE. A SSOCIA T E MEMBER

CONTIKI JUMPS ON FITNESS TREND TRAVELSPHERE AND JUST YOU UNVEIL 2025 FAM TRIPS Last year saw a ‘running club renaissance,’ with more young people than ever joining fi tness clubs. Tapping into this global fi tness trend, Conti ki, the social tour brand for 18-35s, is launching its very own run club… travel style. Acti ve travellers can now maintain their fi tness goals whilst exploring Europe’s iconic desti nati ons on foot, all while running alongside likeminded adventurers. Special adaptati ons of the European Highlights and European Whirl Plus tours now feature 5-, 10- and 15-kilometres through Europe’s most scenic citi es, led by a running enthusiast. The 14-day tour lets runners explore Europe’s most iconic desti nati ons, from the French Riviera to Rome’s ancient ruins and Amsterdam’s canals. The iti nerary also features Monaco, Florence, and Amsterdam. In Munich, travellers can start the day in Riemer Park, one of the city’s running hotspots, and wind down with a wine tasti ng experience in the Rhine Valley. Conti ki’s fourteen-day Run Club: European Highlights’ iti nerary is priced from £1,616 per person (excluding fl ights) and includes accommodati on. Departs 25 August 2025. Alternati vely, the 19-day Run Club: European Whirl takes runners from Berlin’s nightlife to Prague’s cobblestone streets, through Italy’s vibrant citi es, and to the Swiss Alps for an adrenalinepumping canyon swing. In Austria, guests can trade their running shoes for bikes, cycling through picturesque meadows and mountain streams. Also on off er are authenti c cooking classes across Italy, while in Paris, runners will hit the city’s iconic landmarks, including the Eiff el Tower, Arc de Triomphe, and Notre-Dame Cathedral. Conti ki’s nineteen-day Run Club: European Whirl iti nerary is priced from £2,524 per person (excluding fl ights) and includes accommodati on. Departs 7 September 2025. For more informati on on Conti ki Run Club, visit: htt ps://www.conti ki.com/ en-gb/travel-styles/run-club Travelsphere and Just You have launched a series of agent fam trips for 2025. There are three fams taking place, split into categories, each specifi cally designed to accommodate agents’ level of experience in selling escorted touring. These include: • New to touring: Malta fam, for 10 agents who have never sold a tour but want to learn more, taking place from 28 March to 02 April; • Intermediate: Sun Kissed Sardinia fam, for 10 agents with limited tour sales and knowledge who want to grow their business in this area - from 26 April to 03 May; • Expert: Unmissable China fam, for 10 agents where touring is core part of their business, from 03 June 3 to 10 June. Each trip will be accompanied by a member of the Travelsphere and Just You trade sales team. Rachel Mould, head of trade sales UK at Travelsphere and Just You, said: “Our collecti on of 2025 fam trips provide the perfect opportunity for agents to immerse themselves in everything we off er and discover what makes escorted touring the perfect getaway. “By splitti ng these trips into diff erent categories, we can tailor the overall experience, training and post fam trip support, giving agents invaluable fi rsthand knowledge.” A limited number of spaces are available and agents will be handpicked by the Travelsphere and Just You trade team. 48 MARCH 2025 ESCORTED HOLIDAYS

Cherry Blossom Tour (13 Days) 020 8543 8133 www. linkstravelandtours.co.uk CONTACT US [email protected] Links Travel & Tours linkstravelandtours linkstravel_UK from £5,359 Experience Japan’s cherry blossom season with guided visits to scenic bloom spots, traditional tea ceremonies, sake tasting, and a stay in an authentic Ryokan for a fully immersive cultural retreat. SMALL GROUP TOUR with international flights 2026/2027 DATES AVAILABLE Essential Japan and South Korea (12 Days) from £4,704 Explore Japan and South Korea, from Tokyo’s vibrant cityscape to Mt. Fuji’s snowy peak, Kyoto’s ancient temples, Hiroshima’s history, and Osaka’s cuisine, before discovering Seoul’s dynamic blend of tradition and modernity. SMALL GROUP TOUR with international flights 2025/2026/2027 DATES AVAILABLE Japan and China (17 Days) from £5,999 Discover the best of Japan and China on this unforgettable 17-day tour, from Tokyo and Kyoto’s cultural treasures to Beijing’s Great Wall and Xi’an’s ancient wonders, immersing in the rich histories of both nations. SMALL GROUP TOUR with international flights 2025/2026/2027 DATES AVAILABLE from £5,359 Experience Japan’s cherry blossom season with guided visits to scenic bloom spots, traditional tea ceremonies, sake tasting, and a stay in an authentic Ryokan for a fully immersive cultural retreat. SMALL GROUP TOUR with international flights 2026/2027 DATES AVAILABLE Cherry Blossom Tour (13 Days) Essential Japan and South Korea Japan and China 020 8543 8133 www. linkstravelandtours.co.uk CONTACT US [email protected] Links Travel & Tours linkstravelandtours linkstravel_UK

Tell us about the origins of the Intrepid Foundati on (TIF) and its mission The Intrepid Foundati on was born out of the belief that as travellers we all have an opportunity to contribute positi vely to the world. Our mission is simple: create positi ve impact through travel, community, and connecti on. Over the last 20 years, our community of Intrepid travellers have raised over £9 million, giving back to over 160 partners around the world. When did Intrepid fi rst start operati ons in Vietnam, and what drew you to this desti nati on? Since the beginning, Intrepid has held deep and enduring connecti ons with Vietnam. It was our fi rst local country offi ce and conti nues to be our most popular desti nati on. Since Intrepid’s incepti on, we’ve always believed that we should be giving back to the countries and communiti es that we visit. As we began hiring local employees and leaders on the ground, we were able to understand and provide support where it was most needed. What were some of the initi al challenges TIF faced when starti ng work in Vietnam? To achieve quality partnerships that create real impact takes ti me. We started at the grassroots, with our local team engaging with the community, building relati onships and understanding where support was needed. Over ti me, we’ve partnered with organisati ons across a range of impact areas, empowering them to lead their own initi ati ves, and trusti ng their experti se on the ground to help the funds reach the areas in greatest need. How does TIF select the local partners and projects it supports in Vietnam? We lean heavily on our local team’s know-how and advice about the issues aff ecti ng their local communiti es and desti nati ons, to select partners truly making change happen on the ground. Our four key areas of impact - protecti ng the environment, taking a stand for wildlife, addressing inequality and empowering communiti es - guide us in connecti ng with partners and causes that matt er most in our desti nati ons. Could you highlight some of the key initi ati ves TIF has launched in Vietnam over the years? Over the years, we have supported partners in Vietnam to tackle various issues, driven by those creati ng real change on the ground. Blue Dragon Children’s Foundati on, one of our three longstanding partners, works to protect children and end human traffi cking, providing shelter and educati on. Last year, we launched an emergency appeal to support their Typhoon Yagi response, enabling the internati onal travel community to contribute directly to humanitarian relief eff orts for aff ected children and families. How do these initi ati ves infl uence the trips Intrepid off ers in Vietnam? Are there specifi c projects or communiti es travellers are introduced to? We empower travellers to engage with local causes and make a real impact. In Vietnam, they can visit Save Vietnam Wildlife, an NGO rescuing and rehabilitati ng endangered species, or Vun Art, a social enterprise employing people with disabiliti es to create handicraft s from repurposed Van Phuc silk. What do you hope travellers take away from their experience in Vietnam, parti cularly when they interact with TIF-supported initi ati ves? Travel allows us to see the world diff erently and create positi ve change. Whether protecti ng children from traffi cking, rehabilitati ng wildlife, or supporti ng vulnerable communiti es, we can make a meaningful impact. We encourage inspired travellers to give back by donati ng to a local cause supported by The Intrepid Foundati on. Travel Matt ers chats to Biheng Zhang, General Manager, Intrepid Foundati on 50 MARCH 2025 ESCORTED HOLIDAYS