Ireland’s Travel News

10/09/2024

Book a break to Bilbao today

10/09/2024

Cruise Tax of €20 Confirmed for Santorini and Mykonos

Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has confirmed that the Greek Government will impose a fee of €20 on cruise ship visitors in Santorini and Mykonos during the high season summer months. The two islands are at the heart of Greece’s fight against over-tourism, often almost doubling their population during busy days when multiple cruise ships call. A portion of the cruise passenger tax will be used to improve infrastructure on the islands.

“Greece does not have a structural over-tourism problem, but some of its destinations have a significant issue during certain weeks or months of the year, which we need to deal with,” he said. “Cruise shipping has put a strain on Santorini and Mykonos and this is why we are proceeding with interventions.”

Cruise ship limits are also being looked at for the two islands. “It is important to observe sustainability rules in everything that is built from now on – to put the brakes on islands where we believe that the situation has reached a point where the infrastructure limits are actually being tested.”

Tourism Minister Olga Kefalogianni recently called for cruise ship quotas, and Santorini officials proposed a daily limit of 8,000 cruise passengers per day from next year. “It is impossible for an island such as Santorini to have five cruise ships arriving at the same time,” she said.

06/09/2024

06/09/2024

Holiday Deals from Ireland

Caribtours Ireland is offering seven nights in Cyprus ex-Dublin from €2,219pps. This price is for 15 October 2024, but other dates are available up to 25 March 2025.

The holiday comprises Ryanair flights from Dublin and seven nights B&B in a deluxe sea view room at the 5* Parklane Resort & Spa in Limassol.

05/09/2024

Thomas Cook Acquired by Polish Traveltech Firm eSky Group

ESky Group, owner of a leading travel platform in Central and Eastern Europe, has bought Thomas Cook from the Fosun Tourism Group, except its business in China, for an undisclosed sum. The closing is subject to the customary conditions. The deal will provide Thomas Cook with access to eSky’s flight inventory.

The Thomas Cook brand was bought by Fosun Tourism Group following the company’s collapse in September 2019 and was relaunched online in September 2020.

As part of the deal, the company will continue to operate under the Thomas Cook name and chief executive Alan French will remain with the business. He said: “The completion of this transaction will inject significant funding into our business as we rebuild the brand and accelerate the growth of this company. By combining the strength of our dynamic packaging technology and holiday know-how with the flight inventory, performance marketing, and technical strength of eSky’s team, we are confident we will create a formidable European travel business.”

The eSky Group was founded in 2004 and is based in Katowice, Poland. Its eSky and eDestinos brands now operate in more than 50 countries across Europe, the Americas, and Africa, offering more than 550 airlines and 1.3 million hotels. Its 2023 profits were more than €21 million, up 42% year-on-year and nearly three times the level of 2019.

Łukasz Habaj, Co-founder and Chief Executive, eSky Group, said: “The synergy of Thomas Cook’s brand heritage with our technology will drive Thomas Cook’s growth and allow us to strengthen eSky’s position in Western Europe. This acquisition is part of our strategy to diversify from just selling flights to offering package holidays across our existing markets in Europe and Latin America, as well as expand further into Western Europe.”

04/09/2024

New Zealand to Almost Triple Tourist Levy to NZ$100

New Zealand’s International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy will nearly triple to NZ$100 (€56) from NZ$35 (€19.6) from 1 October 2024. The increase will “ensure visitors contribute to public services and high-quality experiences while visiting New Zealand”, according to the government, but Tourism Industry Aotearoa says that it will deter many travellers and make New Zealand “incredibly expensive to visit”.

New Zealand first introduced this levy in 2019 and visitors from Australia and the Pacific are exempt from paying the fee. Some visa fees are also increasing from 1 October.

Tourism Minister Matt Doocey says that the increase will not be a big deterrent, because it makes up only a small percentage of the average travel budget to New Zealand – less than 3% of most tourists’ average spend in the country.

“New Zealand’s tourism recovery is falling behind the rest of the world, and this will further dent our competitiveness,” said Rebecca Ingram, Chief Executive, TIA.

“It has been a double whammy for the New Zealand travel and tourism sector, starting with New Zealand Immigration announcing steep increases in visa fees, and now the increase in the IVL,” said Dr Xie Xingquan, Regional Vice President for North Asia and Asia-Pacific, IATA.

Meanwhile, Cruise Lines International Association Australasia recently criticised the NZ government’s proposal to impose a triple digit increase in cruise related fees.

03/09/2024

Ambassador Cruise Line Becomes Member of CLIA

Ambassador Cruise Line has become a member of Cruise Lines International Association to boost awareness of the brand across the industry. The Essex-based operator now benefits from full access to CLIA’s cruise community, its in-person and virtual events, learning programmes, and the opportunity to share cruise line and ship information and resources online. It can also participate in flagship events such as the annual CLIA conference in May and CLIA Cruise Week (16-22 September).

Founded in April 2021, Ambassador is aimed at ‘cruise intenders’ aged 50+, with a selection of multi-generational sailings. Departures are available from seven UK ports with two ships: Ambience, which had its maiden voyage in April 2022, and Ambition, which came into service in May 2023. The line has a trade team of 13 to support agent partners, led by Nicola Harper, Head of Distribution.

Andy Harmer, UK & Ireland Director, CLIA, said: “Ambassador has gone from strength to strength in the domestic market and we are very pleased to welcome them as a member. The line has already become a well-established brand in a short period of time, and we look forward to supporting their team as they further develop and build relationships with the trade across the UK and Ireland.”

Christian Verhounig, Chief Executive, Ambassador Cruise Line, added: “In a short space of time, Ambassador has cemented its position as a strong new cruise brand. Joining CLIA is a natural step for us as we grow ever more established, with membership of the world’s largest cruise industry trade association offering the mark of trust and reassurance associated with travel brands in the sector.

“Our main objective for the coming months is focussed on building brand awareness even further and encouraging more agents to feature and sell our affordable quality, no-fly cruise experiences.

“CLIA membership offers us a fantastic opportunity to engage with the wider agent community, and we are very much looking forward to contributing to the organisation’s events, training initiatives, and working groups in the months and years to come.

“We are also keen to support the association’s efforts in shaping the cruise industry and welcoming the opportunity to contribute towards the regulatory and policy efforts that CLIA is spearheading on behalf of the entire sector.”

03/09/2024

02/09/2024

Visit La Palma Appoints Aviareps for UK & Ireland

Aviareps has been appointed by Visit La Palma for market, trade, and media services in the UK and Ireland for a two-year partnership – and will also promote Visit La Palma’s efforts in responsible tourism, safety, and security, an aspect that is becoming increasingly important to UK and Irish holidaymakers.

La Palma, the steepest island in the world, is defined by distinctive and contrasting landscapes, where imposing volcanoes, dense forests, unique beaches, and star scattered skies create a balanced synergy, rightfully named ‘La Isla Bonita’ (the Pretty Island). Located in the Canary Islands archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean, La Palma is different from the rest of the islands for its natural wealth, ideal backdrop to an array of activities throughout the territory of 708 sq km. Listed as World Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO, La Palma is also a world-class stargazing hotspot, adding to an extensive and versatile network of trails.

Raquel Rebollo Morera, Island Minister for Tourism, said: “We are thrilled to announce our new partnership with Aviareps, who will now represent La Palma, La Isla Bonita, in the UK & Ireland. La Palma is a destination brimming with experiences. We firmly believe that our island is among the top holiday choices for tourists seeking relaxation, nature, and outdoor adventures. La Palma offers a small, safe, and charming escape with an abundance of experiences waiting to be explored. Through our collaboration with Aviareps, we aim to enhance La Palma’s visibility in the UK and Ireland, key markets for us.”

Katerina Tomina, General Manager, Aviareps UK & Ireland, added: “We are excited to announce our partnership with Visit La Palma, bringing the enchanting story of the 'Isla Bonita' to the UK and Irish markets. With its indescribable skies, breath-taking waters, and the world-renowned UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, La Palma is a treasure trove of natural wonders waiting to be discovered. We are excited to share the island’s secrets and unique experiences with UK and Irish travellers, inviting them to explore the beauty and serenity that define La Palma, to inspire new adventures in one of the world’s most captivating destinations.”

02/09/2024

The Cruise Room Expands with New Store in Belfast

Specialist agency The Cruise Room is expanding by opening an appointment-only premises in Belfast in addition to its existing office in the Wirral, Liverpool. Directors Robbie O’Grady and Jonathan Howitt, who opened their Hoylake shop in June 2021, will unveil their second store this month in the southern wing of the former Harland and Wolff headquarters.

Robbie and Jonathan said: “With many guests across Ireland already choosing to book with us, along with our large social media following in Ireland, this move is the next logical step in our growth. Not only do we plan to grow our own business, but we will passionately continue to play our part in growing the wider cruise industry focusing on the wonderful value and huge range of cruising experiences available today, specialising in helping first-time cruisers step onboard.

“We are moving into a site formerly occupied by the largest shipyard in the world, where Olympic, Titanic, Britannic, and HMS Belfast were among the ships produced. Among our many neighbours will be the historic SS Nomadic, the last remaining White Star Line ship in the world.”

30/08/2024

Hurtigruten Expeditions Launches Agent Portal

Hurtigruten Expeditions has launched a new HX-dedicated agent portal as part of its rebranding, providing agents with access to updated brochures, marketing materials, webinars, and the new HXplore series to promote HX expedition cruises.

HX has also introduced a new online training programme, including interactive quizzes, covering four modules: Introduction to HX, Destinations, Sustainability, Science & Education, and Life Onboard.

Advisors who complete the one-hour training will receive an OTT certificate and accreditation logo, and those finishing by the end of August will be entered into a draw for a $150 gift card, enhancing support and incentives for agents promoting HX expedition cruises.

30/08/2024

ClarityTTS and ASM Ireland Announce Strategic GSA Partnership
ASM Ireland
ASM Ireland, the number 1 independent travel trade GSA and sales
representation company in Ireland is thrilled to announce the latest
representation of OpenNDC by ClarityTTS. OpenNDC is AI powered, premier
travel marketplace that specializes in B2B travel distribution globally.
ASM Ireland will further strengthen the reach and capabilities of both brands
within the B2B travel sector, bringing significant benefits and growth to those
in the industry. Through OpenNDC, ASM Ireland is now appointed as the GSA
and globally connected to over 800 airline and 3 million properties, offering a
wide range of services including air ancillaries, car rentals, travel insurances,
lounge access, activities and much more.
This partnership is the catalyst for increasing sales and diversified distribution
channels within the B2B travel industry. ASM Ireland’s extensive network and
industry expertise will enhance OpenNDC’s presence and services in the Irish
market.
"We are thrilled to join forces with ASM Ireland," said Thava Tharmalingam,
CEO of ClarityTTS. "Their reputation and knowledge in the travel industry
make them the perfect partner to help us expand our footprint. Together, with
the luck of the Irish, we will deliver unparalleled service and solutions to our
valued clients and partners."
“We are very excited to be partnering with ClarityTTS” said Alan Sparling, MD
of ASM-Ireland. “The OpenNDC platform by ClarityTTS offers tremendous
possibilities for travel agents, and we look forward to show-casing the benefits
over the coming months”
OpenNDC brings significant benefits to travel agencies, tour operators, TMCs,
loyalty programs and Closed User Groups (CUG). The one stop marketplace
provides seamless search results and recommended itineraries across all
available content sources such as GDSs, NDCs and LCCs simultaneously.
Leveraging intelligent automation and real-time data, businesses can optimize
their travel operations, enhance customer experiences, and unlock new
opportunities in the global travel marketplace.

29/08/2024

Changes to Security Rules at Dublin Airport from This Sunday

The EU has made some temporary changes to airport regulations regarding the carrying of liquids in hand luggage that will come into play on Sunday 1 September 2024. For passengers travelling through both terminals at Dublin Airport, these changes mean all departing passengers must be prepared to remove all liquids, aerosols and gels (LAGs) from their hand luggage prior to screening, with all LAGs to be under 100mls.

The rules are slightly different for passengers depending on which terminal they are going through:

In Terminal 1, all liquids must be under 100mls, put into a clear 1 litre bag (20cm x 20cm) and placed visibly within the security tray. Each passenger is limited to a single 1 litre bag only. Large electrical items such as laptops and tablets should be removed from bags and placed in the security tray.

In Terminal 2, all liquids must be under 100mls, put into a clear bag(s), and placed visibly in the security tray. However, in Terminal 2 there is no limit on the number of bags or 100mls containers that a passenger can take through, while all electrical items can be left in hand luggage.

Gary McLean, Managing Director, Dublin Airport, said: “These changes, which apply to all airports in Ireland and Europe with C3 scanners, are being introduced at a time when the roll-out of new C3 scanners is ongoing at Dublin Airport. That roll-out is at different stages in Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, which means the guidance for passengers is slightly different depending on what terminal they are departing from.

“In Terminal 2, all of the security lanes in operation are now fitted with new C3 scanners, so all passengers are assured of using a C3 scanner. However, in Terminal 1, due to the age of the building, the roll-out is taking slightly longer, so it cannot be guaranteed whether a passenger will go through a lane with C3 scanners installed or the older technology. As previously communicated, the rollout of C3 scanners across both terminals is on track for completion by October 2025.

“We want all passengers to have a smooth journey through Dublin Airport. By following our advice and preparing in advance for security screening, passengers can prevent unnecessary delays in getting through to their flight. Further details on how best to prepare for airport security can be found on the Dublin Airport website.

“Passengers’ safety and security remain our top priorities and we thank passengers for their understanding as we introduce these changes and as the roll-out of the fantastic new C3 scanning technology continues at pace at Dublin Airport. We hope that these temporary restrictions are only in place for a short period and that the EU will be able to lift them as soon as possible. Passengers should keep an eye on our social media channels and website for further updates.”

Summary of Security Rules at Dublin Airport from 1 September 2024:

In Terminal 1:
• All liquids, aerosols and gels (LAGs) in hand luggage must be under 100mls.
• All LAGs must fit inside one clear 1 litre bag.
• Only one bag is permitted per passenger.
• Passengers should be prepared to take large electronic items (laptops, tablets, etc) out of their bags.

In Terminal 2:
• All liquids, aerosols and gels (LAGs) in hand luggage must be under 100mls.
• All LAGs should be put into clear bags, but there is no limit on the number of bags or 100mls containers that a passenger can have.
• Large electronic items (laptops, tablets etc) can stay in hand luggage.

Exceptions:
Baby food/milk, medicines or special dietary requirements needed during the flight remain exempt from this temporary rule at all EU airports including Dublin Airport. These can be in containers over 100mls but must be taken out of your carry-on bag and presented separately for screening.

27/08/2024

Pakistan Introduces Free Visas for 126 Countries

Pakistan has introduced free visas for 126 nationalities, in major changes to the nation’s application process. Previously it cost around $60 and the system regularly encountered delays and tourists faced unpredictable waiting times. This should now change, with the Pakistani authorities also promising to deal with and respond to applications within 24 hours.

The change comes as tourism is on the rise in country and government figures show there was a 115% increase in international visitors in 2023, compared to the previous year. A trend that started pre-pandemic, but unlike some countries, Pakistan’s tourism sector bounced back considerably after Covid restrictions were reduced.

James Willcox, Founder of adventure travel company Untamed Borders, which has been running group and private trips to Pakistan since 2008, said: “Until recently the Pakistan visa system was time consuming and inconsistent, with long waits for some applicants. This has made it challenging for potential visitors and tour operators, but these changes are a breath of fresh.

“Some of our guests have already benefited from the new system and had their applications granted within five minutes of completing the process. The doing away of a fee is another bonus and hopefully it will result in more people choosing to visit Pakistan, which has a wealth of attractions for tourists.”

26/08/2024

Shannon Airport Welcomes TUI Decision to Operate Service to Majorca Next Summer

The Shannon Airport Group has welcomed TUI’s decision to operate a service from Shannon Airport to Majorca for the summer 2025 season, with an additional 6,800 seats to become available from the airport. The new weekly service to Palma Airport, Majorca (TUI last operated this service in 2019), will commence on 6 May 2025, operating every Tuesday from Shannon until 16 September 2025.

Niall Kearns, Airport Director, Shannon Airport Group, said: “TUI’s decision to resume its Majorca service is really welcome news for Shannon Airport, and indeed for this region, as it will offer even more sunshine destination options for our passengers. We are delighted to be increasing our range of TUI options from Shannon to three weekly departures to Lanzarote, Majorca, and Costa Daurada, as well as TUI city breaks to Paris and New York.

“We are on track to breach the two million passengers mark this year as more and more people discover how easy and efficient it is to fly Shannon and the resumption of TUI holidays on the Shannon to Palma Majorca route is another significant boost for our airport, with its potential to deliver over 6,800 additional seats.

“TUI’s decision to expand its Shannon offering is a further endorsement of the growing demand from our customers and we are excited to see the service officially take flight next summer.”

24/08/2024

New Sensory Room Officially Opened at Dublin Airport T1

A new sensory room at Dublin Airport for passengers with autism, dementia, cognitive impairment, or other sensory needs has been officially opened in Terminal 1 near the 200 gates, and complements an existing facility in Terminal 2.

These rooms feature relaxing music, mood lighting, a bubble wall, bean bags, digital display panels, textured flooring, and memory and motor skill games. They can be adjusted to provide either a calming or stimulating environment.

Dublin Airport also offers an ‘Important Flyer’ programme, providing wristbands or lanyards to passengers with sensory issues, signalling to staff that additional assistance may be needed.

Gary McLean, Managing Director, Dublin Airport, said: “The opening of our second sensory room is a significant step towards making Dublin Airport a more inclusive space. It is essential that we cater to the needs of all our passengers, ensuring their journey is as comfortable and stress-free as possible.”

The rooms were designed by Robert Byrne of the Sensory Pod, a Dublin-based company that specialises in the design and installation of affordable, calming, and relaxing spaces for children and adults.

For more information or to book a session, visit Dublin Airport’s website at www.dublinairport.com/accessibility/sensory-room

Dublin Airport has opened a purpose-built sensory room, aimed at helping to calm passengers who might feel overwhelmed in busy and unfamiliar airport surroundings.

23/08/2024

BREAKING Destination Partnership News!!
Travelbiz partners Oman Tourism in Ireland.

Travelbiz is delighted to announce our Partnership with Oman Tourism. We will be bringing you regular updates, events and a real taste of this hidden jewel at the tip of the Arabian Peninsula. Next week Don Shearer (Travelbiz & Travelfinders Managing Director) will lead a VIP Irish Trade delegation to Muscat flying with our trade partner Emirates to experience Omani hospitality and culture. Stay tuned for all updates and click here for a look at the Sultanate of Oman with Travelbiz on our dedicated Oman E zine : https://travelbiz.ie/email-template/take-a-look-at-the-sultanate-of-oman/

23/08/2024

Royal Caribbean to Introduce ‘Upper Deck’ Trade Loyalty Programme

Royal Caribbean is launching a new loyalty programme, Upper Deck, on 3 September 2024 that will be available on the brand’s online travel agent learning and rewards platform, Club Royal. The higher the value of the booking, the more agents will earn. Agents interested in joining the Upper Deck loyalty programme can do so by visiting the Club Royal website.

Royal Caribbean will reward agents with the following on a prepaid digital Mastercard delivered just after the booking has been confirmed:
• £15 for bookings of £2,000 or more
• £30 for bookings of £5,000 or more
• £60 for bookings of £10,000 or more
• £150 for bookings of £25,000 or more
• £500 for bookings of £50,000 or more

Additionally, Upper Deck members who make group bookings will receive a standard £10 for each reservation. Agents who book their own holidays with Royal Caribbean will also receive £100 on to their Mastercard to spend anywhere they like.

Royal Caribbean will invite the top 12 agents with the highest-value booking from 3 September to 1 October to a five-night sailing from Miami, on Independence of the Seas, on 11 November 2024.

Aaron Langford, Senior Sales Director UK & Ireland, Royal Caribbean International, said: “Travel partners are a cornerstone of Royal Caribbean, and we have listened to their feedback to reimagine how they are rewarded by incentivising their efforts in securing higher-value bookings. With Upper Deck we are excited to raise the game on the earning potential for agents supporting our business and I cannot wait to welcome more agents, both new to the brand and new to cruise, as a result.”

22/08/2024

Congratulations, Joanne!

Congratulations and the very best of luck Joanne Madden.

Don Shearer (Travelbiz & Travelfinders) met with the very well known and highly regarded Joanne Madden this week to talk about her new Venture J Madden Consulting.

J Madden Consulting launches this week. http://www.jmconsulting.ie/

With over 25 years of experience in the Travel Industry across various senior roles Joanne takes the next step in her career this week launching J Madden Consulting with a strong focus on delivering business efficiencies utilising her vast experience in retail, wholesale and global distribution systems.
Joanne has a drive and passion for real customer service and delivery and shares her experience and reasons for her next step with you all today.

"After over 25 years in the travel industry, working in various capacities, I was approached to establish J Madden Consulting to help and advise other businesses. I began my career in tour operations, starting in reservations and then moving into operations, primarily using FSS systems. Later, I installed, set up, or improved FSS systems for many tour operators across Ireland.
Subsequently, I managed operations departments and teams, which provided me with an amazing few years of experience. Seeking a new challenge, I transitioned to a travel agency, where I successfully set up a website and a back-office system.
In 2011, I made my final career leap to a GDS, where I worked in Account Management and Customer Success Management. There, I achieved excellent results by helping agencies improve automation and increase staff productivity.
Now, in 2024, I am excited to share the knowledge and expertise I have gained throughout my career."

Through J Madden Consulting the services I will be providing are as follows:
• Business analysis
• Adding/Increasing automation
• Improving staff productivity
• Negotiation advice
• Technical support
• Problem solving
• Guidance and support
• Strategic and commercial advice
• Staff training
• Recruitment assistance

Please email [email protected] for more information or call 0860412477.

22/08/2024

FAA Orders Mandatory Inspections of Dreamliner Pilot Seats

The US Federal Aviation Administration has ordered mass inspections of Boeing 787 Dreamliners after a sudden mid-air plunge that injured several passengers earlier this year.
Cockpit seats on certain 787-8, 787-9 and 787-10 aircraft must be inspected within 30 days.

The FAA said that technicians should look for “missing or cracked rocker switch caps and cracked or non-functional switch cover assemblies” and “operators must also perform any necessary corrective actions”.

The directive impacts 158 Dreamliner aircraft in the USA and over 700 globally and comes after the LATAM mid-air incident due to a faulty pilot seat sent an aircraft plunging. The seat suffered an “involuntary movement forward” into the cockpit controls and “caused the control column input to disconnect the auto-pilot, resulting in a rapid descent”. Over 50 passengers were injured when the LATAM flight plunged 400 feet.

The FAA said that four more instances of a similar problem were later reported.

21/08/2024

From Mexico to the Maldives, Dubai to Zanzibar, I have hand picked 10 of the best long haul holidays to take in 2025 with flights and hotels.

21/08/2024

Royal Caribbean Introduces Upper Deck – Agents Can Earn Up to £500 per Booking.
Royal Caribbean Ireland Agents Royal Caribbean Northern Ireland Agents
Click Connect and earn with Royal Caribbean here on the all new Travelbiz trade partnerss hub: https://travelbiz.ie/royal-caribbean-introduces-upper-deck-agents-can-earn-up-to-500-per-booking/

21/08/2024

Aer Lingus Regional Expands Network from Cork

Aer Lingus Regional, operated by Emerald Airlines, is expanding its services from Cork with the launch of a new Cork-Glasgow service and the addition of 20,000 extra seats between Cork and Bristol. The Glasgow service will commence on 27 October 2024 with over 30,000 seats on offer and fares starting from €39.99.

Departs Cork: 10.35, Arrives Glasgow: 12.15, Monday, Thursday, Friday, and Sunday
Departs Glasgow: 08.25, Arrives Cork: 10.05, Monday, Thursday, Friday, and Sunday

Ian Lough, Head of Commercial, Emerald Airlines, said: “We are delighted to be expanding our network from Cork Airport with the introduction of our new Glasgow service. We are equally pleased to announce the increase in flights between Cork and Bristol. These enhancements underscore our commitment to providing our customers with more travel options and greater convenience. By expanding our offerings from Cork, we aim to meet the growing customer demand and ensure our passengers have even more opportunities when travelling from Cork Airport.”