SPAA Voice Of Travel In Scotland

03/11/2022

🔔🎁 Visit Las Vegas at Christmas – it’s certainly not understated! The world’s largest Christmas light maze and village - Enchantment of The Strip Resorts World Las Vegas - will have more than 4 million outdoor lights 💡💡💡 over 10 acres and a 100-foot-tall Christmas tree 🎄🎄🎄and a 🎅 Christmas Village. Your local travel agent can help you to plan an all-out festive extravaganza! https://loom.ly/l1r0GG0 🎰

The World's Largest Christmas Light Maze and Village. Select your Enchant location to discover your city’s magical Maze story.

31/10/2022

Will Google’s predictive technologies – giving aerial views of mainstream attractions - help some of the world’s most popular attractions like the from over tourism? What do you think? Will the ‘virtual experience’ cut it for you?
https://loom.ly/3IcHnng

Google previewed a series of upcoming search features in Google Maps to improve the user experience that could make tours and activities booking sites and

29/10/2022

💻🖥️⌨️🏖️🌴Working from ‘home’? More countries are marketing themselves as a place for digital nomads to work. Costa Rica Visit Costa Rica has joined Bali, Portugal and Malaysia in the trend offering digital nomad visas; https://loom.ly/jtFxWDk Visit Bali, Indonesia Visit Portugal Visit Malaysia

As more destinations provide visas specifically for digital nomads, some are using it as an opportunity to discover whether their return tourists transition into digital nomads and then develop marketing strategies around this.

27/10/2022

Orlando is an ever-popular destination for Scots – so it’s great news that
Orlando International Airport (MCO) has officially opened its new $2.8 billion terminal C. https://loom.ly/w51l4IM

Orlando Airport Terminal C opens after years of development, promising new features and amenities to travelers who pass through.

25/10/2022

Love to get up close to locals on holiday? Then the newly launched Journey Mexico's Mexico’s Magical Neighbourhoods programme is for you. It aims to boost, strengthen and motivate road travel in and to take the tourist towards open spaces, in more intimate contact with nature and the host communities.
https://loom.ly/xaY7vAA

The Magical Neighborhood Program, among other objectives, identifies, values, and preserves towns' uses, customs, territories, identities, and cultures with a tourist vocation.

22/10/2022

Indonesia is embracing heritage tourism which benefits local residents through local wisdom. A wise move Visit Indonesia … https://loom.ly/y_itx_U

Heritage tourism can benefit local residents if it is presented with local wisdom, Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy Sandiaga Uno has ...

20/10/2022

If a Wellness holiday means more to you than a yoga session by the pool, then you’ll love the trends towards activities which boost mental, physical and spiritual health. Outdoor holistic healing, personalised nutrition and urban wellness are all holiday trends which your travel agent can advise on. https://loom.ly/7_Md42s

Travelers are increasingly placing wellness at the forefront of their vacations, seeking to restore their wellbeing and take part in activities that boost physical, mental, and spiritual health.

18/10/2022

✈️💚EasyJet has announced plans to curb its CO2 emissions by 35% per passenger kilometre by 2023 as part of a new roadmap. https://loom.ly/m9PlXEY

According to a survey published by the British low-cost airline, EasyJet, out of 2,000 British vacationers, more than 75 percent believe that airlines urgently need to define ways to achieve net zero CO2 emissions. EasyJet is the second-largest low-cost airline in Europe after Ryanair and has 318

14/10/2022

✈️✈️🌏 TRAVEL INSPIRATION ✈️✈️🌏 Hong Kong has long been a destination which attracts both holidaymakers and business people. So, it’s great news that British Airways is resuming its London- Hong Kong service from 5 December. If you need any convincing, then check out Wanderlust’s article and hot foot it to your local Scottish travel agent.
https://loom.ly/yiH1Bdo

Hong Kong travel guide, including famous attractions such as Victoria harbour, key facts, recommended experiences and travel tips for Hong Kong

12/10/2022

🍹🍸🛳️ Lovers of cruising and cocktails will be raising a glass to the news that Oceania Cruises is launching the latest cocktail crafting trends on board, including an immersive mixology experience – what’s not to love? Raise a glass to cocktail cruising at your local Scottish travel agent https://tourism-trends.co.uk/destinations/oceania-cruises-unveils-innovative-mixology-program-new-moet-chandon-champagne-experience-and-more-aboard-vista-debuting-may-2023/

10/10/2022

Qantas has performed a U Turn on its inflight single meal option – just week’s after introducing it. Vegetarian meals are once more on the menu. It’s been an interesting experiment for Qantas – and one which other airlines can learn from?
https://loom.ly/GKF849k

Airline had started only offering a single meal option on shorter Australian flights, prompting ire from travellers with dietary restrictions

06/10/2022

Ever popular Dubai has shown significant growth in tourism numbers with 7.12 million international visitors in the first 6 months of 2022. https://loom.ly/Cl-0hus

According to the latest figures from Dubai's Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), an impressive 7.12 million international visitors arrived in the emirate between January and June 2022.

04/10/2022

The world’s first long term bio fuel tests for the cruise industry has recently been completed in Rotterdam. It showed a 78% decrease in lifecycle CO2 emissions during the final 15 days of the trial. A potential game changer for sustainability in cruising? https://loom.ly/Q_kT8G0

Holland America Line has completed the cruise industry's first multiweek test of biofuels on board Volendam at the Port of Rotterdam.

30/09/2022

We know that opera breaks are a popular choice for culture vultures – but how about the new Rocco Forte Musical Suite Service where opera houses and musicians give the ultimate, intimate performance for guests with private concerts in guest suites. Does it hit the right not for you?
https://loom.ly/56MDX0g

28/09/2022

It’s long been a summer only destination for most, but Greece is now looking to extend its season into winter. The Ministry of Tourism is ensuring availability of a minimum number of hotel beds in Crete, Rhodes, Kos, Athens and Thessaloniki. What do you think? Will you consider a Greek Winter? https://loom.ly/2QPEft4

Greece plans to extend the tourist season beyond October to November and, under certain conditions, to the rest of the winter months

26/09/2022

Qantas is stopping providing vegetarian meals on some domestic routes – do you think this is a trend which other airlines will follow?
https://loom.ly/WoHmBcc

Airline says it changed menu during Covid but critics say ‘one size fits all’ alienates passengers and is a sign of decline

23/09/2022

Lufthansa crews are taking to the skies in traditional Bavarian costume this month to mark Oktoberfest with women in dirndls ad men in lederhosen. Flying with flair!
https://loom.ly/Cw9cfUE

Dirndl crews from Munich to Rio de Janeiro, San Diego, New York, Boston and numerous European destinations Oktoberfest time on more than 800 long-haul

21/09/2022

Some of the strictest Covid measures in the world may be about to be lifted as Hong Kong seems about to lift the requirement to spend three days on arrival in a designated hotel followed by four days of restrictions on visiting bars and restaurants.
https://loom.ly/41HpHHo

15/09/2022

Literature has long inspired us to travel – check out these suggestions from Agatha Christie to Gordon Ramsay!
https://loom.ly/kNKFE60

Are you one of those who are in constant lookout for travel inspirations and, more often than not, find them in the pages of your favourite reads or TV shows? Do you find yourself (often) opening Google images “just to see” that particular location you so briefly saw on your screen? And most imp...

13/09/2022

Want to be a responsible, polite tourist? It’s well worth reading this piece about ‘deviant’ tourist behaviour categories – from culture disregarders to safety ignorers!
https://loom.ly/EYbpBhw

When scientist Dr. Ismail Shaheer mined Reddit data, he realized how the online network can show us how to be more responsible travelers.

09/09/2022

New York is an ever-popular destination for Scots, and the city that never sleeps has some fabulous new hotels for your base. The Wall Street Hotel in the former New York Stock Exchange or The Ned – a sister hotel to London’s Soho House perhaps? Your local travel agent can help you find the one for you.
https://loom.ly/NSx8e0o

Post-pandemic, the city is roaring back to life. Here are seven stylish new hotels to put on your radar.

09/09/2022

At this solemn and profoundly sad time for our country we, the Scottish Passenger Agents' Association, offer his Majesty the King
and the Royal Family our heartfelt condolences on the death of
Queen Elizabeth II.

Queen Elizabeth was an ever-constant presence in our lives over her reign of 70 years, and as our longest serving Monarch it is difficult to comprehend our Nation without her.

Her Majesty was a firm believer in cultural exchange between nations and development through travel, and many Royal Tours abroad emphasised this.

We join with the entire Nation in mourning, but also in commemoration of an extraordinary reign and an exceptional life.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the King and the Royal Family at this moment of utmost sadness.

We send his Majesty our dearest wishes and may God grant him the strength to undertake the responsibility as our Monarch.

God Save the King.

07/09/2022

Travel can restore your well-being and Stockholm in Sweden may be high on your list with its eco hotels, cycle-friendly streets and zen-like spas.
https://loom.ly/5PoQ3ms

Welcome to Stockholm, Sweden's capital city made up of 14 islands, stunning parks, miles of bike lanes, and countless architectural feasts.

05/09/2022

In need of travel inspiration? https://loom.ly/vg2GROE has a wealth of ideas for global trips from backpacking in Baja to conservation projects to save the world’s smallest bear! Talk to you travel agent to make your trip of a lifetime a reality.

Adventure.com is an online magazine dedicated to exploring a more conscious, compassionate and curious future of travel.

02/09/2022

Robot-run hotels? What do you think? Would you like to be checked into your hotel by a robot? The jury seems to be out on this futuristic step …
https://loom.ly/DfEBgjY

As more hotels look to adopt robots onto their staff, it's worth asking whether the industry has learned from earlier experiments.

31/08/2022

The German tourist industry prides itself on excelling at accessibility. Visitors with restricted mobility can look forward to a host of holiday options in the country which is also considerate of those with hearing or visual impairments. Businesses can be accredited with ‘Tourism For All’.
https://loom.ly/KHOnYpA

29/08/2022

If making a sustainable holiday choice is important to you, then it’s worth asking your travel agent about EasyJet holidays eco-certified collection of trips.

25/08/2022

These prices may in in 💲- but you’ll get the picture! This article looks at the most and least expensive tourist landmarks to visit globally , taking in entrance fees and average hotel room costs. Anyone for Easter Island or Mount Rushmore?? Scotland’s travel agents are full of great ideas for creating the perfect break to fit your budget!
https://loom.ly/qrEUTnA

Visiting many famous attractions around the world could be a pretty pricy proposition for a regular traveler

23/08/2022

Six out of ten millennials think the most important part of travel is experiencing authentic culture. So, if you are looking for indigenous art workshops in the Australian outback or Berber bread making in Morocco your local travel agent can help you find the perfect trip. Here’s some inspiration for you:
https://loom.ly/IwcLaS8

Six out of 10 UK millennials think the most important part of travel is experiencing authentic culture

15/08/2022

Balkan Holidays Summer has some terrific Bulgarian holiday bargains which you can access via your local SPAA travel agent. From the legendary Sunny Beach and Golden Sands to the Black Sea Coast along with culture crammed cities Bulgaria’s got something for everyone. Need to find your local travel agent? Click here https://bit.ly/35HbTH9

12/08/2022

Culture Vultures – attention please.
How about a culture and music holiday? Kirker Holidays specialises in holidays for travellers who want to lean more of the history and art of an area, or attend a classical or opera performance on an escorted tour. From the Romantics in Rome to Gardens of the Riviera or the Puccini Opera Festival in Lucca. Find out more here https://bit.ly/3cFmYeU

Since 1986, Kirker Holidays has arranged short breaks in Europe and beyond for discerning travellers. Music holidays, cultural tours and luxury hotels.

10/08/2022

TUI River Cruises has launched its river cruises for 2023. Cruises include the Magical Danube, Rhine Gems, The Moselle Valley, the Rhine and Bavarian Discovery. You can find your local SPAA travel agent https://bit.ly/35HbTH9 and cruise along to book your 2023 trip.

08/08/2022

More than 30 countries including Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Denmark and Croatia, and have dropped all Covid related travel rules. Read more about these countries here https://bit.ly/3J0HC5j

More than 30 destinations worldwide have ended all Covid-related travel rules

05/08/2022

Some of the airport hold ups in recent weeks have been a result of travellers not having the correct paperwork with them. Here’s a checklist from the https://bit.ly/11XHTdf website to make air travel quicker and easier for all. https://bit.ly/3PAuJ4e

GOV.UK - The place to find government services and information - simpler, clearer, faster.

03/08/2022

Travelling to Spain soon? It’s important to be aware of new rules and regulations for British travellers to the country. These include evidence of a return flight or an onward ticket, as well as evidence of enough finances for your time in the country and proof of accommodation. Check how you can prepare for these current regulations with your travel agent.

01/08/2022

If you are looking for an “off the beaten track” holiday, then Italy has what you are looking for. Miles of golden beaches largely untouched, local wineries and restaurants and even ancient Greek settler city ruins. There is much more to do in Italy than you may think. The Guardian’s travel team tells all on “hidden Italy” https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2022/apr/09/hidden-italy-where-to-stay-and-what-to-do-off-the-beaten-track

In our third instalment on less-visited corners of Europe, we look at Italy, home to some of the world’s best-known sights, but also plenty of quieter beauty spots

29/07/2022

If you are thinking about going on holiday, make sure you contact a local travel agent to make sure you are getting the best deal. You can find your local agent through our Travel Agent Finder tool, it’s really simple to use. Try it now! https://spaa.org/travel-agent-finder/

27/07/2022

The Northern Lights is a hugely popular spectacle. Did you know that Icelandair flies from Scottish airports? You could set off for Iceland from Glasgow or Aberdeen and take in the stunning sights that are plentiful in Iceland’s landscape. This article by The Guardian’s travel team talks why Iceland was voted one of their readers favourite holiday destinations in 2021. https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2021/dec/23/readers-favourite-holidays-of-2021

Guardian readers share off-the-beaten-path tips, from a Spanish nature reserve to a walk on water in Norfolk

27/07/2022

If you are travelling to, or via Germany, this week, Lufthansa ground staff look set to strike across Germany on Wednesday 27th in a pay dispute. Talk to your travel agent to keep on top of the situation.

25/07/2022

Did you know that Delta Air Lines flies from Edinburgh to New York? Finding a holiday is made even more easy with our Travel agent finder tool – try it here today: https://spaa.org/travel-agent-finder/