Connect with us

TravelNews

Tourism Minister calls for UK cruise growth as industry gathers for CLIA’s Cruise Tourism Summit

The UK Tourism Minister Stephanie Peacock reaffirmed the government’s support for cruise tourism growth today as industry leaders gathered in Port of Tyne, UK, for CLIA’s Cruise Tourism Summit. The Summit brought together cruise leaders, UK Government representatives, ports and tourism organisations. The programme explored how cruise can increase economic opportunity, strengthen regional travel, and create lasting values for communities across the nation. The Summit followed the publication of the UK Government’s Cruise Growth Plan last September. In her address, the Minister highlighted that the UK is the world’s 3rd largest cruise source market. She also spoke about the opportunities the sector creates across tourism, hospitality, maritime services, supply chains and travel agencies nationwide.In 2024, cruise generated PS6.3 billion for the UK economy (including direct, indirect and induced output), while supporting 69,000 jobs.ADVERTISEMENTSpeakers at the Summit stressed the need to maintain a competitive operating environment as cruise lines make long-term deployment and investment decisions worldwide. The speakers also discussed ways in which the UK could strengthen its position on the global cruise market, and increase its economic impact in years to come. Matthew Dass, Director of Tourism Economics, presented CLIA’s latest economic impact statistics. The Port of Tyne hosted a reception to welcome guests to Newcastle. Commercial Director Craig Morton also welcomed delegates. Sessions onboard Fred. Fred gave remarks on Olsen’s Balmoral, which brought together cruise executives, destination leaders, and policymakers. Olsen Cruise Lines’ CEO Samantha Stimpson. CLIA UK & Irish Managing Director Andy Harmer. CLIA UK Chair David Dingle. Industry leaders participated in a panel discussion on the future of responsible and sustainable cruise tourism in the UK. The panel included MSC Cruises Vice President for Sustainability and ESG Linden Coppell, Carnival Maritime Senior Manager for Port Operations and Destination Engagement Richard Cook, and Portsmouth International Port Technical Director Stephen Watkyns. In the UK Cruise Growth Plan, published last year we shared our vision for how we can ensure that the sector can continue to thrive and be a powerful engine of activity. “Building on the successes of the sector, CLIA UK remains committed to supporting the UK visitor economy as a entire. We are therefore developing a Visitor Economic Growth Strategy, which will provide a long-term, clear plan to unlock investment, help businesses, and increase visitor flow across England. Andy Harmer OBE is the Managing Director of CLIA. He said: “It was a pleasure to host delegates from industry and government at our second Cruise Tourism Summit and to celebrate the benefits that our sector provides to the UK.” This success is a testimony to the collaboration among cruise lines, ports and destinations, as well as suppliers, who all work together to create incredible experiences for those who visit our shores. “With the right Government policies, which enable the UK to stay competitive, there is a great potential for cruise contributions to grow in the years to follow.” Samantha Stimpson CEO, Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines said: “It’s a privilege to have such a powerful group of leaders and stakeholder aboard Balmoral.” We all have a part to play in making sure the UK cruise industry continues to grow and develop, and that it doesn’t happen within silos. CLIA created the platform for these important discussions. Thank you. Craig Morton, Commercial director, Port of Tyne said: “As North East Gateway for Cruises, The Port of Tyne is proud to welcome the Cruise Tourism Summit and to showcase all the Port of Tyne Cruise operations has to offer.” This growth reflects the strength of the offer and the appeal to the North East.

  

Continue Reading

TravelNews

Quito Airport’s New International VIP Lounge Turns Farewells into an Experience

The new International VIP Lounge at Mariscal Sucre International airport was inaugurated on March 15, 2018. It is a space that aims to give passengers a last-minute connection to Quito, including its architecture, gastronomy and Andean landscape. For this reason, the architectural concept incorporates colors, textures, shapes, and materials inspired by Quito’s Historic Center and other iconic elements of Ecuador’s capital city.One of the most striking features of the new VIP Lounge is its open-air terrace, where passengers can enjoy views of the Andean landscape surrounding the airport — an uncommon experience among airport terminals in the region.ADVERTISEMENTThe proposal also includes a gastronomic experience with an offering that combines Ecuadorian flavors with international cuisine, allowing both foreign visitors and Ecuadorians to enjoy one last connection with the country before traveling.As part of the new experiences that the lounge will incorporate, a new spa area will soon begin operations, designed to provide passengers with an additional space for relaxation and wellness before their international flights.The inauguration of this new International VIP Lounge is part of Corporacion Quiport’s strategy to continue strengthening the passenger experience and to maintain Quito Airport among the most recognized air terminals in the region for its service quality and hospitality.Ramon Miro, President and CEO of Quiport:”We wanted our passengers to feel that Quito is still present. The city doesn’t end when you pass immigration control”. “An airport is more than infrastructure; it is the first memory that millions of people hold of a city”.

  

Continue Reading

TravelNews

ATLAS OCEAN VOYAGES UNVEILS 2028-2029 INAUGURAL SEASON OF ATLAS ADVENTURER

Atlas Ocean Voyages announced today the inaugural season for Atlas Adventurer, its newest luxury expedition yacht. The season marks a significant milestone in the brand’s history, introducing a new collection of journeys in Asia and Africa – regions that have never been featured in Atlas’ destination portfolio. The inaugural season expeditions will begin in Kobe, Japan on November 6, 2028 and conclude in Athens in late spring, 2029. This highly anticipated deployment represents an expansion of Atlas’ immersive experience, introducing a range of new ports in Southeast Asia and Eastern Africa. Guests will experience the diverse cultures and landscapes of destinations such as Indonesia and Thailand as well as the remote and wildlife-rich shores in Madagascar and Kenya. Atlas Ocean Voyages’ exclusive Explorer’s Choice inaugural offer allows guests to customize their journey and add value. Travelers who book a suite aboard Atlas Adventurer for the inaugural season can choose from an Air Credit up to $3,000, unlimited free Wi-Fi or a pre expedition hotel stay. Those booking within the Concierge Collection may choose two amenities. Reserve Collection Suites will include all three amenities for a truly inclusive experience. This limited-time offering underscores Atlas Ocean Voyages commitment to deliver elevated, personalized exploration throughout the voyage. Atlas Adventurer introduces new destinations, while remaining true to our ethos, which is to deliver deeply immersive, culturally-rich journeys. These voyages were designed for discerning travellers who are looking to discover and refine themselves in some of the most compelling destinations around the world.View the full itinerary details here. View full itinerary details here.ADVERTISEMENTInaugural Season Voyages:Nov 6, 2028 (12 nights) – Far East Mystique | Kobe roundtrip

Kobe roundtrip

Nov 30, 2028 (10 nights) – Dynasties & Rising Suns | Kobe to Hong Kong

Hong Kong to Bangkok

Bangkok to Bali

Bali to Manila

Manila to Singapore

Singapore to Bali

Bali to Singapore

Singapore to Phuket

Phuket to Mahe

Mahe to Mombasa

Mar 24, 2029 (14 nights) – Swahili Coast | Mombasa to Cape Town

Cape Town to Mombasa

Mombasa to Mahe

Mahe to Athens

Atlas’ expedition experience and intimate yacht setting enhance each voyage to showcase authentic cultural experiences, regional cuisine, as well as immersive shoreside activities. Each destination will be brought to life through a rich tapestry. In Bangkok, for instance, travelers can immerse themselves into Thailand’s dynamic food scene, from guided tours of bustling markets to refined tastes that reveal the balance between sweet, sour and salty that defines the cuisine of the region. In the Philippines, the crystalline water of Palawan and Puerto Princesa offers snorkeling and kayaking within UNESCO-protected aquatic environments. Boracay, on the other hand, offers a more relaxed pace with its powdery-soft beaches and vibrant culture. Experiences along the coasts of Africa take on a wild and elemental quality. From marine safaris and wildlife watching in Mossel Bay in South Africa to exploring around Andoany on Nosy Be in Madagascar, guests can discover rare flora, walk through ylang-ylang plants and lush tropical forest, and encounter endemic species. Each experience is designed to deliver meaningful, place-driven experiences that will resonate long after your journey ends.

Atlas offers a collection Extraordinary Expeditions, which are extended voyages lasting 40 nights or longer. Bangkok to Singapore

Feb 10, 2029 (42 nights) – East Africa & Asia Expedition | Bali to Mombasa

Cape Town to Athens

Kobe to Cape Town

These extended itineraries provide a rare chance to explore entire regions in one seamless journey, combining several expedition routes into an extensive exploration. Launch Details

For information or reservations, call your preferred travel advisor at 1-844-4-ATLAS. Discover more at www.AtlasOceanVoyages.com. Follow Atlas on Facebook and Instagram: www.facebook.com/AtlasOceanVoyages and www.instagram.com/AtlasOceanVoyages.

  

Continue Reading

TravelNews

Oceania Cruises® Unveils Holiday and New Year Voyages for 2026-27 and 2027-28 Seasons

Oceania Cruises (r) invites you to celebrate the holiday season on board its luxurious ships in Europe, Asia, Australia, and the Americas between 2026-2027 and 2027-2028.The intimate ships of the line offer a relaxing and rejuvenating way to celebrate the holiday season. They have voyages that range from one week up to almost 40 days. The holiday voyages will span the entire fleet from the Oceania Insignia ™ up to the newly launched Oceania Allura ™ in the 2026-27 period. Holiday sailings will be offered on Oceania Sonata ™ and Oceania Aurelia ™, which are both scheduled to debut in 2027. Itineraries include some the world’s most captivating destinations, including the sun-drenched Caribbean Islands and biodiverse coastlines like Peru and Chile. Other destinations include cultural capitals such as Bangkok and Rome and dramatic natural landscapes like Vietnam and New Zealand. Oceania Cruises’ holiday voyages combine the traditions of Christmas with the excitement of exploring the world. They include overnight stays at ports like Barcelona, Bali, and Singapore, for a more in-depth experience, as well scenic cruising experiences along the Panama Canal and New Zealand’s Milford Sound. “Whether guests are toasting the New Year in a vibrant city or spending Christmas Day in a remote tropical paradise, these sailings offer a rare opportunity to celebrate in extraordinary surroundings, all while enjoying the exceptional cuisine, service and warm elegance that define Oceania Cruises.”ADVERTISEMENTOceania Cruises offers travelers a distinctive way to mark the holiday season, through imaginative itineraries and onboard enrichment programs, designed to deepen guests’ connections to the destinations visited.On many sailings, guests can dive deeper into local cultures through hands-on cooking classes inspired by regional cuisines at The Culinary Center, or venture ashore on a chef-led Culinary Discovery Tour for insider access to local food scenes. Travelers can also choose to explore ancient archeological sites or natural wonders with small group tours, or wander local markets to find meaningful mementos while tasting new favorite dishes and beverages.

A comprehensive journey through Australia and Indonesia including an overnight stay at Darwin on Christmas Eve and another at Bali.

Caribbean to Cape Horn – Miami to Buenos Aires in 36 days on Oceania Insignia departing Dec. 19, 2020

A South America tour that includes a transit of the Panama Canal, several days in Peru including access to Machu Picchu, and scenic cruising along the Chilean Fjords.

Legends of Jade – Hong Kong to Singapore – 15 days on Oceania Nautica ™, departing December 21, 2026

A Southeast Asia itinerary that includes overnights in Hue, Singapore, and visits to Vietnam, the Philippines and Malaysia.

Iberia and Italian Treasures: Lisbon & Rome: 14 days on Oceania Sirena ™, departing December 21, 2026

A Mediterranean trip with an overnight in Barcelona on New Year’s Eve. Also includes visits to Spain, Portugal, and the French Riviera.

Tropical Serenade – Miami to Miami – 17 days on Oceania Allura departing Dec. 21, 2020

A Caribbean cruise featuring a mixture of destinations in the Eastern and Western Caribbean, including St. Barts St. Kitts St. Maarten.

Highlighted Holiday Voyages for 2027-28 Guests can celebrate 2027-28 holidays aboard Oceania Sonata or Oceania Aurelia. Both are set to debut in the year 2027.Holiday Harbors and Hollywood: Miami to Los Angeles, 29 days aboard Oceania Sonata departing December 6, 2027

A transcontinental trip featuring a Panama Canal Transit, Christmas at Sea and New Year’s Eve on Mexico’s Pacific Coast.

Heavenly Holidays: Athens-Rome: 26 days aboard Oceania Allura departing Dec. 8, 2020

Explore the Mediterranean, from Greece to Turkey, Spain, and North Africa. Includes Christmas in Morocco.

European Holiday: Athens-Barcelona: 10 days aboard Oceania Aurelia departing December 18, 2027

A festive Mediterranean cruise through Greece, Malta Italy, France and Spain including Christmas at sea, calls in Florence, Rome, and Barcelona.

Holiday Horizons: Miami-Miami: 17 days aboard Oceania Marina ™, departing December 20, 2027

A Caribbean cruise with a mix of Western and Eastern Islands, including St. Barts and Puerto Rico, as well as the Dominican Republic.

Barcelona to Rome in 14 days: Oceania Allura departs Dec. 20, 2027.

A Mediterranean itinerary that includes Spain, Morocco Tunisia, and Italy. This is a culturally rich holiday season.

Fairytale Holiday: Hong Kong-Singapore: 14 days on Oceania Riviera departing Dec. 21, 2020

New Year’s Eve in Bangkok and Ho Chi Minh City, followed by a festive trip through Southeast Asia.

A Kiwi Holiday: Sydney-Auckland: 12 days on Oceania Vista(r), departing December 23, 2027

A scenic journey through Australia and New Zealand. Includes cruising Milford Sound, and celebrating New Year’s in Wellington.

Iberian New year: Barcelona to Lisbon in 7 days on Oceania Aurelia departing Dec. 28, 2020

A New Year’s cruise along the Iberian Peninsula, including an overnight stay on New Year’s Eve in Malaga, and another in Seville.

Iberia to New World Passage – Barcelona to Miami – 21 days aboard Oceania Aurelia departing Dec. 28, 2020

Enjoy the New Year’s celebrations at Malaga, a visit to the Canary Islands, and a relaxing transatlantic journey.

Visit OceaniaCruises.com for more information about Oceania Cruises and its collection of small, luxurious vessels with curated global itinerary. You can also call 855-OCEANIA.

  

Continue Reading

TravelNews

PROMPERÚ Launches AI-powered Virtual Assistant to Enhance Travel Planning to Peru

It is important that this tool helps diversify Peru’s tourism offering by promoting lesser known destinations and making trip planning easier for travelers, says Ricardo Baraybar Incoming Tourism Director of PROMPERU. By highlighting lesser-known destinations, new routes, and authentic experiences, it promotes a more balanced distribution of visitors and creates greater opportunities for regions across the country.ADVERTISEMENTThis solution integrates artificial intelligence and data analytics to deliver a dynamic and up-to-date experience aligned with global tourism trends, while strengthening Peru’s international positioning.For further destination information and to plan your trip, visit www.peru.travel

  

Continue Reading

TravelNews

Le Piaf, Paris Society’s Iconic Piano-Bar, Debuts at Emirates Towers

Paris Society, the hospitality company behind some of the world’s most iconic dining and entertainment addresses, brings Le Piaf to Dubai for the very first time. Le Piaf, the first location outside of Europe, will open on May 20th in Jumeirah Emirate Towers. Previously operating in Paris, Megeve and Val-d’Isere. Since its opening in Paris’s eighth arrondissement in 2017, this concept has gained a loyal following for its French cuisine, its signature interiors in red velvet, and its atmosphere rooted in spontaneity and live music. The Dubai edition is the next chapter in the story of Paris Society, a group whose addresses have been known to create experiences that guests remember long after the evening has ended. “Le Piaf’s music has inspired people for years across Paris and the French Alps, and we are happy to bring this spirit here for the very first time,” said Rizwan Kassim CEO of Paris Society. “It is friends gathered round the piano, and strangers who sing the same songs. The music takes over. Someone starts singing, then another joins in and the whole room starts singing. We try to create an environment where it happens naturally with the right elements. A room full people singing together. It’s what they remember. Le Piaf, he concludes. A LEGEND FROM PARISPiaf is a 19th-century Parisian slang term for a small bird. Le Piaf, a charming sparrow who sings and rejoices. Le Piaf is elegance and indulgence, songs and friendship. Le Piaf is dinner, raising your glass, dancing, singing. Le Piaf is dinner, dancing, singing, raising your glass. It opened in September 2017 in the 8th arrondissement of Paris at 38 rue Jean Mermoz, just steps away from the Champs Elysees. The format was simple but effective: a pianist played from the first course, starting softly, and gradually building throughout the evening, until tables were singing along to French classics and English rock. Later, a DJ takes over, and the night continues into the early morning hours. Its success led to the opening of outposts in France’s most sought-after locations: Le Piaf Megeve, and Le Piaf Val-d’Isere in partnership with Airelles in one of the Alps’ greatest ski resorts. Each one stays true to its original soul, while adapting the scenography for its location. Dubai is the next evolution in that story.THE SETTING : JUMEIRAH EMIRATES TUBELe Piaf has moved into Jumeirah Emirates Towers. This is one of Dubai’s most iconic addresses, located at the intersection of Emirates Towers and DIFC. The World Trade Centre is also nearby. The location has been a magnet for the world, and is the perfect place to house a concept that aims to bring people together. The interiors are a reflection of the brand, with walls draped in crimson-red velvet, crystal pendant chandeliers, frames gilded with old paintings and banquettes in the brand’s signature red. The materials are those of French architecture at their most extravagant: red velvet, black lacquer and mirror. The room is intimate. The menu stays true to Le Piaf’s founding promise of generous, French and unapologetically scrumptious cuisine. The menu has been designed for Dubai to reflect a city who takes their food seriously. It draws on classic French techniques while embracing the local produce and tastes. Gillardeau oysters are served with finger lime. Wagyu is shaved and paired with aged balsamic, truffle and peach chutney. Foie gras is served with toasted brioche and a peach chutney. The raw bar offers everything from Imperial caviar to bluefin tuna, while the Truffle Croque Monsieur is served at the bar. Mains include sole meunière with capers and citrus, miso-black cod with pickled daikon and roasted lobster with lemongrass bisque. A duo of Australian Wagyu is also served with two side dishes. The lemon roasted chicken is a tribute to the French bistro tradition. It is one of the most popular dishes at all Le Piaf addresses. Le Piaf Paris’s signature dessert is chocolate mousse with hazelnuts pralined and caramelised hazelnuts. THE EXPERIENCE

Le Piaf, in the traditional sense of the word, is not a restaurant. It is a living room. The evening is already in motion when guests arrive for dinner. The pianist is present from the beginning, setting an atmosphere that is warm and relaxed. The music grows as the night progresses and the glasses are filled again. By the time the dessert arrives, everyone is singing. The evening is not something that can be planned but rather surrendered to. The dress code is the room, elegant and uninhibited. The service team in their signature white shirts with bow ties and braces moves through the crowd like people who know the best hospitality is hidden. The DJ takes over when the pianist steps away. Le Piaf is transformed into a club. The night ends when the last guests decide it should.Stay tuned to book: https://www.jumeirah.com/en/stay/dubai/jumeirah-emirates-towers/dining

  

Continue Reading

Latest News

Video20 minutes ago

Trump weighing lifting sanctions on Chinese companies buying Iranian oil

President Donald Trump said he is considering lifting sanctions on Chinese companies that buy Iranian oil, adding that Chinese …

Video41 minutes ago

UK Eurovision act Look Mum No Computer isn't afraid of ‘nil points’. #bbcnews

Entertainment57 minutes ago

Taylor Swift Ditches Major Wedding Tradition As She Relies On Secret Calls Amid Info Leaks And Security Issues

​ Taylor Swift has employed a non-conventional means to reach out to her wedding guests as her big day approaches....

Video2 hours ago

Elon Musk attends dinner with son as part of Trump's China trip. #BBCNews

Video2 hours ago

Trump on US-China conflict over Taiwan: 'I don't think so'

President Donald Trump said that he made “no commitment either way” on Taiwan during his meeting with Chinese President Xi...

Entertainment2 hours ago

Britney Spears’ Family Fears She’s Becoming A ‘Train Wreck’ As CCTV Footage Captures Her Actions Before Wild Night

​ Britney Spears is once again at the center of growing concern after a chaotic night out in Los Angeles...

Video2 hours ago

Trump’s champagne sip in Beijing says a lot

A series of symbolic moments during Trump’s visit to Beijing highlighted a noticeably warmer dynamic between Trump and …

Video3 hours ago

Andy Burnham to make bid to return as MP as pressure mounts on UK PM Keir Starmer | BBC News

Andy Burnham will attempt to return to the Commons as an MP, after Wes Streeting resigned as health secretary, saying...

BBC News World3 hours ago

Trump and Xi conclude ‘very successful’ talks but no deals announced

​  ​ Trump Trump ” Boeing El Musk Tesla Huang Trump later told Fox News that “China is going to invest...

Video3 hours ago

Are Trump and Xi aligned on Iran?

Chinese leader Xi Jinping and US President Donald Trump have concluded a historic summit with global implications, but …

Trending News

Join Our Newsletter

Stay updated with breaking news and exclusive content.