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    Jet2.com and Jet2holidays start countdown to Liverpool John Lennon Airport launch

    Jet2.com and Jet2holidays are on the countdown until their first flights depart from Liverpool John Lennon Airport, with operations starting in exactly three months The UK’s largest tour operator and third largest airline will start operating flights and holidays from Liverpool John Lennon Airport in exactly three months, with a flight to Tenerife signalling the start of operations from the airport. To mark the special occasion, Jet2.com and Jet2holidays have promised exciting plans at the airport for their first day. 
    Jet2.com and Jet2holidays announced they would launch their award-winning flights and holidays from Liverpool John Lennon Airport back in May this year, marking the latest stage in their continued growth and success story. 
    The airline and tour operator have put 20 sunshine destinations on sale for Summer 24 from Liverpool John Lennon Airport, including six destinations that are exclusive to Jet2.com and Jet2holidays from Liverpool. Since launching, the companies have reported a fantastic response from customers and independent travel agents and have announced an even bigger programme for Summer 25 on the back of this, with additional aircraft coming into operation to support this growth.
    Speaking today, Steve Heapy, CEO of Jet2.com and Jet2holidays said: “Since the day we announced our launch from Liverpool John Lennon Airport, we have experienced huge demand from customers and independent travel agents wanting to enjoy our award-winning flights and ATOL protected package holidays. The key ingredient behind our success is our commitment to delivering VIP customer service and it is clear that the word has spread to Liverpool and the surrounding region, because the reaction we have had since launch has been nothing short of phenomenal. Bookings have remained consistently strong since launch, and the feedback we have received has left us in no doubt that making this move was the right one. With just three months until our first flight from Liverpool John Lennon Airport, we are incredibly excited about opening this latest chapter in our continued growth story and we cannot wait to welcome customers and get started.” 
    In their first summer of operations from Liverpool John Lennon Airport, Jet2.com and Jet2holidays will operate up to 54 weekly flights, including 12 weekly flights to both the Canary Islands and the Balearic Islands. A fleet of four based aircraft will fly customers to a wide choice of destinations across Mainland Spain, the Canary Islands, the Balearic Islands, Greece, Turkey, Bulgaria, Portugal, Madeira and Cyprus (full list of destinations below). ADVERTISEMENTThis is a significant programme for the company’s first summer of operations from Liverpool John Lennon Airport, representing 565,000 seats on sale. The programme includes six exclusive summer routes to Gran Canaria, Menorca, Rhodes, Zante, Madeira, and Bourgas (Bulgaria). With multiple weekly flights to many destinations, it means that customers can enjoy fantastic flexibility when it comes to choosing the duration of their holiday.
    A team of more than 250 colleagues, including a huge team of uniformed Customer Helpers will be in place to ensure that customers travelling from Liverpool John Lennon Airport with Jet2.com and Jet2holidays get to experience and enjoy the VIP customer service which has seen the companies continually grow their businesses whilst repeatedly winning high-profile accolades. These awards include Which? Travel Brand of the Year, Which? Recommended Provider in every possible category (seven categories in total), and an unprecedented 14 awards at the recent British Travel Awards.
    These customer service accolades complement those of Liverpool John Lennon Airport, which in recent years has been voted the Which? Best UK Airport, as well as Which? Recommended Provider and commended for its high levels of customer service, with travellers able to take advantage of the Airport’s faster, easier and friendlier passenger experience. Passengers flying from Liverpool check-in quickly and pass through the terminal with ease compared to many larger airports, with average security queue times of just 12 minutes last Summer and more on time departures than most other UK airports.
    Jet2.com and Jet2holidays’ Summer 24 Programme from Liverpool John Lennon Airport:
    Mainland Spain
    Alicante – up to four weekly services (Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday) Canary Islands – highest frequency of services from Liverpool John Lennon Airport
    Fuerteventura – up to two weekly services (Wednesday and Saturday) Gran Canaria – up to two weekly services (Tuesday and Saturday) – exclusive route Lanzarote – up to three weekly services (Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday) Tenerife – up to five weekly services (Tuesday, Thursday Friday, Saturday and Sunday)
    Balearic Islands
    Ibiza – up to three weekly services (Monday, Friday and Saturday)  Majorca – up to seven weekly services (Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday Friday, Saturday and Sunday) Menorca – up to two weekly services (Wednesday and Sunday) – exclusive route Portugal
    Faro – up to four weekly services (Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday) Madeira – weekly Monday services – exclusive route Greece
    Corfu – up to two weekly services (Monday and Friday) Crete (Heraklion) – up to two weekly services (Tuesday and Friday) Kos – weekly Friday services Rhodes – up to two weekly services (Monday and Thursday) – exclusive route Zante – weekly Wednesday services – exclusive route Cyprus
    Paphos – weekly Wednesday services Turkey – highest frequency of services from Liverpool John Lennon Airport
    Antalya – up to four weekly services (Monday, Thursday, Friday and Sunday) Dalaman – up to four weekly services (Monday, Tuesday, Friday and Saturday) Bodrum – up to two weekly services (Wednesday and Sunday)
    Bulgaria – exclusive from Liverpool Airport
    Bourgas – up to two weekly services (Monday and Thursday) – exclusive route

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    Exploring the Wonders of Wildlife at the Belize Zoo

    Nestled in the heart of Central America, Belize is a country known for its stunning natural beauty and rich biodiversity. Among the many treasures this nation has to offer, the Belize Zoo stands out as a testament to its commitment to wildlife conservation and education. Established in 1983, this unique zoo has evolved into a haven for native species, providing visitors with an unparalleled opportunity to witness the incredible diversity of Belizean wildlife up close.
    A Home for Native Species:
    Unlike traditional zoos that feature animals from around the world, the Belize Zoo focuses exclusively on the native wildlife of Belize. The zoo was originally conceived as a sanctuary for animals rescued from various situations, such as injuries, orphanhood, or illegal captivity. Today, it serves as a refuge for these animals, offering a safe and natural environment that closely mimics their native habitats.

    Visitors to the Belize Zoo can expect to encounter a fascinating array of indigenous species, including jaguars, tapirs, howler monkeys, ocelots, and an impressive variety of exotic birds. Each enclosure is carefully designed to provide a comfortable and enriching space for the animals, emphasizing the importance of conservation and environmental stewardship.ADVERTISEMENTConservation and Education:
    At the heart of the Belize Zoo’s mission is the commitment to wildlife conservation and education. The zoo actively engages in conservation efforts, collaborating with local and international organizations to protect endangered species and their habitats. Through various programs and initiatives, the zoo seeks to raise awareness about the challenges faced by Belizean wildlife and inspire visitors to become advocates for conservation.
    Educational programs at the Belize Zoo cater to visitors of all ages, offering guided tours, interactive exhibits, and informative presentations. The knowledgeable staff, comprised of passionate conservationists and educators, strive to instill a sense of appreciation for Belize’s unique biodiversity, fostering a connection between visitors and the natural world.

    A Unique Experience for Visitors:
    One of the standout features of the Belize Zoo is its commitment to providing a unique and immersive experience for visitors. Unlike larger, more commercialized zoos, the Belize Zoo offers a more intimate setting, allowing guests to connect with the animals on a personal level. The guided tours are designed to be informative, engaging, and environmentally conscious, ensuring that visitors leave with not only a sense of wonder but also a deeper understanding of the importance of wildlife conservation.

    The Belize Zoo stands as a shining example of what a dedicated commitment to conservation and education can achieve. By focusing on native species and providing a sanctuary for animals in need, this incredible zoo has become a beacon for wildlife enthusiasts, educators, and anyone seeking a deeper connection with nature. As visitors explore the lush grounds and encounter Belize’s diverse fauna, they not only witness the wonders of the country’s wildlife but also contribute to the vital mission of protecting and preserving these extraordinary creatures for future generations. The Belize Zoo is more than a destination; it’s a testament to the power of compassion, education, and the enduring beauty of Belize’s natural heritage.

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    CABOT SAINT LUCIA CELEBRATES GRAND OPENING

    The Cabot Collection, developer and operator of luxury resort and residential golf destinations, announces the grand opening of Cabot Saint Lucia, situated along one-and-a-half miles of breathtaking coastline with striking views of the Caribbean Sea.Set across one of the most dramatic sites ever selected for golf, Cabot Saint Lucia offers an unparalleled Caribbean golf experience, magnificent real estate opportunities and unique amenities on a spectacular 375-acre peninsula at the northern tip of Saint Lucia.
    With cooling sea breezes, white sand beaches and exquisite ocean views from every corner of the site, Cabot Saint Lucia offers residents and guests exclusive access to amenities and experiences curated specifically for the destination. At the heart of the sprawling property lies Point Hardy Golf Club, featuring a show-stopping 18-hole Coore & Crenshaw golf course. In addition, comfort stations, a food and beverage experience, a retail shop and sports courts are currently available onsite. Additional amenities to follow include a beach club and restaurant, expansive clubhouse, luxury residences and world-class wellness and fitness facilities.
    “When I first saw the land that would become Cabot Saint Lucia, I knew it was the perfect canvas to create something truly awe-inspiring,” said Ben Cowan-Dewar, CEO and Co-founder of Cabot. “Opening Cabot Saint Lucia and Point Hardy Golf Club has been a dream come true, and I am honoured to work alongside the dedicated, creative and talented team whose vision and hard work brought us here today.”
    Golf:Perched above the Atlantic Ocean and designed to blend seamlessly with the unique topography of the magnificent Saint Lucian landscape, Point Hardy Golf Club is the crown jewel of the site. Renowned golf course architects Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw’s first Caribbean course is a masterpiece, winding through lush terrain, over rocky cliffs jutting into the ocean, and along meandering valleys and sandy beaches. With nine holes playing along the ocean and every hole showcasing mesmerizing views, the course capitalizes on natural beauty and playability at every turn. The closing stretch at Point Hardy embodies the pinnacle of drama: heroic holes in a jaw-dropping setting, with forced carries over jagged rocks and crashing waves on each of the final four holes. Special attention was placed on preserving the local habitat by transplanting existing cacti and native grasses.
    Recently featured as the cover star of GOLF Magazine’s November/December issue, the course debuted as No. 76 in GOLF Magazine’s coveted “Top 100 Courses in the World’’ ranking. Point Hardy Golf Club is the first course in Saint Lucia to make the prestigious list and the highest ranked original design among the new courses on the list.ADVERTISEMENT“It’s very possible that Cabot Saint Lucia is the most visually stunning piece of land we have ever worked with,” said Bill Coore, co-principal of Coore & Crenshaw. “It was a privilege to work with the Cabot team on this one-of-a-kind site, and I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished. This project was truly a labor of love, and the initial feedback on this enchanting property as one of the world’s most sought-after golf destinations is very special to Ben and me.”
    Real Estate and Design: Real estate opportunities at Cabot Saint Lucia range from turnkey residences to expansive, customizable single-family homes, hilltop lots and beachfront living opportunities across seven unique neighborhoods. The landscape features tropical hillsides, sweeping meadows and coastal promontories along with striking elevation changes. Homes hug the natural contours of the land, with building materials chosen for their organic style and ecological sensitivity. Designed to embrace the spectacular natural scenery, open-concept interiors are bright and breezy, complemented by plentiful outdoor living spaces to enjoy the peaceful Caribbean environment year-round.
    To date, Cabot Saint Lucia has sold over $160 million in real estate sales, swiftly selling out of its Phase One offerings and much of Phase Two, priced from $2 million to $11 million. Cabot recently unveiled its latest real estate for sale, the four-bedroom Horizon Villas. The move-in ready residences stand perfectly positioned atop one of the site’s highest points at the heart of the property, with stunning views of Cas en Bas Bay and the majestic topography of the Saint Lucian coastline. With three bedrooms in the center of each villa and a fourth bedroom located in a private, detached casita, the experience seamlessly blends indoor-outdoor living and provides the perfect balance of connection and privacy. The main living space features an open concept kitchen, media room, living and dining area that spills out to an expansive patio featuring an outdoor lounge, infinity-edge plunge pool and picturesque views. Pricing will begin at $5.6 million USD and the first of the Horizon Villas is estimated for completion in December 2025.
    Amenities:Fitness amenities cater to family members of all ages and include two meticulously maintained Har-Tru tennis courts, two clay tennis courts, four pickleball courts, padel courts and basketball courts. The beach experience promises a delightful treat with a wood-fired pizza truck curated by Cabot’s Michelin starred Executive Chef Esther Ha, offering a menu of local, ocean-inspired culinary creations. Future amenities such as the Beach Club will include a series of restaurants and lounges for toes-in-the sand, all-day dining, as well as a pool, cabanas and hammocks. 
    The expansive clubhouse will span three levels and feature breathtaking panoramic views. The first level will include a welcoming bar with a terrace to unwind and enjoy drinks while taking in the serene surroundings, while the second level will be home to well-appointed men’s and women’s changing rooms and a club restaurant. On the third level, an array of entertainment options awaits, including a games lounge, a bowling alley, golf simulators and a theater. The clubhouse is estimated to be completed in 2026. Plans for the wellness center and spa include hydro circuits, massage therapy and an array of fitness offerings and locally inspired spa treatments. The facilities will also feature a full-length lap pool and state-of-the-art gym.
    Activities:On-island adventures include hiking through the rainforest and to the iconic Pitons, birdwatching, horseback riding and embarking on unique excursions, including a mud bath, a volcano, a rum distillery tour, a chef-attended BBQ experience and a chocolate tasting tour. The Cabot Explorers program can design bespoke trips and exhilarating wind and wave adventures including snorkeling, deep-sea fishing trips, Hobie Cats, scuba certification, sailing lessons, kitesurfing, whale watching, kids’ camps and trips to neighboring islands.
    Rich in culture and rare in mountainous beauty, the enchanting island nation of Saint Lucia reveals 238 square miles of lush rainforests encircled by gold- and black-sand beaches—a natural playground for a lifetime of adventures. The land is born of ancient volcanoes, its most famous being the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Pitons, a pair of twin volcanic spires that are among the most recognizable landmarks in the Caribbean. The island enjoys an average year-round temperature of 83°F (27°C).
    To learn more about the world-class golf, real estate and amenities at Cabot Saint Lucia, visit www.cabotsaintlucia.com.

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    A Culinary Oasis in Southern Corsica

    Corsican Places is thrilled to announce the addition of the 4-star hotel A Cheda to its holiday collection. Situated just 5 minutes from Bonifacio, A Cheda is a welcoming new option within southern Corsica. Catering to the discerning tastes of food and wine lovers, guests will enjoy a perfect blend of luxury, tranquillity, and culinary excellence, as well as a strategic location for exploring Corsica’s striking medieval town and surrounding area.Key Features of A Cheda:
    Gastronomic Delights: Organic Culinary Experience:
    The hotel’s Michelin recognised restaurant, L’A Cheda, has gained a reputation for its superb gastronomic Corsican cuisine and attentive service. Specialising in wild fish, organic meats and vegetables from the gardens, as well as a fine wine list, the sommelier will guide guests through its prestigious Corsican wines. Steeped in romanticism, the restaurant’s large glass walls fully open to welcome the outside in and add to the ambience, while in the evening local delicacies are complemented by the gentle sounds of piano music.
    Luxurious Guest Rooms with Garden View Terrace:
    Guest rooms each offer a relaxing space and garden view terrace, providing privacy to enjoy the tranquillity and beauty of the surroundings. Two suites offer an additional indulgence with their own private sauna.ADVERTISEMENTAmenities:
    Facilities include a heated pool, sauna, Jacuzzi, while Thai, Swedish and Reiki massage services are available for extra pampering.
    Ideal for Touring:
    Enjoying a prime location within the region, A Cheda serves not just as a retreat but also as an outstanding hub for discovering Corsica’s L’Extreme Sud. Whether guests are drawn to the historical allure of Bonifacio’s ancient walled citadel, the lively waterfront of Porto Vecchio, or some of the island’s finest beaches, the hotel provides an exceptional base and starting point. Additionally, for those with an interest in exploring Corsica’s Italian neighbour, Sardinia, day trips from the conveniently located ferry port are just a 5-minute drive away.
    Pricing:
    Corsican Places is offering seven night bed and breakfast packages from £1599pp, including flights and car hire with a saving of £50pp on all package holidays booked by 15th December.
    Book at Corsica.co.uk or call 01489 866931.

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    Local Vibes Come to a Regenerated Area of Aruba

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    Local Vibes Come to a Regenerated Area of Aruba

    Drab winter nights prompt dreamy thoughts of warm balmy evenings in a setting more tropical than December in the UK. Winter sun destinations like the Dutch Caribbean Island of Aruba are ready, willing and able to make those desires come true and even offer a new twist.
    Anyone visiting Aruba and looking for authentic experiences and local vibes should add a visit to the historic Rancho neighbourhood on the outskirts of island capital Oranjestad.
    Once a village of fishermen and their families in the mid-1800s, the area’s population grew in the 1920s when a subsidiary of Royal Dutch Shell built a small refinery in the area. Needing to accommodate its workers and their families, the area saw the addition of stone houses, traditional to Aruba’s architecture at the time.
    But the closure soon afterwards of the refinery – thanks to the construction of a larger one elsewhere on the island – started Rancho’s decline. With the exception of a lime kiln, operating from 1892 to 1949 (currently preserved as a national historic monument), there was little activity in the area and eventually the residents moved away.
    But this ghost neighbourhood found new life. Revival began in 2010 when it was marked for historic preservation by the non-profit Rancho Foundation. Now it is starting to bloom, with the help of an eclectic collection of bars, cafes and restaurants, adding a lively nighttime ambiance for culture seekers and foodies.ADVERTISEMENTA lynchpin for this renaissance is Flor de Oriente, a Dutch-style café housed in the oldest bar in Aruba. Originally established in 1935, this gem of a relic was lovingly restored in 2018. Attention to historic detail left much of the original building intact, with a fascinating collection of antiques decorating just about every corner, while outdoors, guests can relax under sparkling bistro lights, enjoying the colourful streetscapes of this area.
    In 2021, live music began filling the air with the addition of Hard Grooves Jazz Café, where some of the island’s best musicians, as well as visiting guest musicians, are highlighted. Owned and operated by local jazz musician, Erik Eman, the café features music events, impromptu jam sessions, and music trivia nights paired with craft cocktails, a selection of local and craft beers, wine, and a light menu of sandwiches and typical Dutch snacks.
    Most recently, two new additions to this up-and-coming area of hospitality and entertainment opened. Nusa Indonesian Restaurant is an al fresco Balinese garden, offering a traditional rice-table experience, as well as classic Indonesian favourites like sate and rendang.
    Nearby is Beer Garden Aruba, boasting vintage charm and a fresh boho beach-house vibe. The interior pays homage to its over 100-year-old history, with one side of the house functioning as a beer-tasting room, while the other is dedicated to private events and groups. The original rock walls were opened up in several areas, offering a window to this bygone architectural era of Aruba. The outdoor garden offers several relaxation spaces to chill or wander up to the bar and strike up a conversation with the friendly and knowledgeable bartenders.
    Continuing preservation efforts are set to encourage more dining and nightlife options in Rancho, helping to fulfil the dreams of those looking for balmy and fun evenings outdoors.
    Aruba lies 15 miles north of the South American coastline, benefitting from year-round sunshine, an average temperature of 32 degrees and a cooling breeze. With a nine-mile stretch of award-wining pristine beach, turquoise seas, colonial Dutch architecture and a Latin vibe, Aruba is a delightful alternative Caribbean experience. Now served weekly by direct British Airways flights from London-Gatwick and with additional connections available with KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, Aruba is easily accessible, and a host of tour operators feature packages there. These include British Airways Holidays, Trailfinders, Tropical Sky and Caribtours.
    With major international brand name resorts, as well as smaller boutique accommodation, Aruba offers a vibrant nightlife, as well as a host of watersports and other activities. It also has a busy schedule of major international sporting and cultural events throughout the year.

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    Amilla Maldives’ Commitment to Inclusivity and Sustainability Recognised by Two Leading Institutions

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    Amilla Maldives’ Commitment to Inclusivity and Sustainability Recognised by Two Leading Institutions

    Private island resort Amilla Maldives has been recognised for its continued commitment to sustainability, accessibility, and inclusivity, with accolades from two leading institutions, EarthCheck and Blue Badge Access Awards. Amilla achieved its third consecutive EarthCheck Silver certification following an extensive audit of its sustainability practices; while the resort’s innovative and stylish approach to accessible design saw it named ‘Best International Venue’ in the Blue Badge Access Awards 2023.Amilla Maldives secures EarthCheck Silver certification for third consecutive year
    As the leading scientific benchmarking certification group for sustainable travel and tourism, EarthCheck’s certification programmes are recognised by travellers, brands, and destinations across the world. Its rigorous science-backed, people-focused sustainability certification process enables consumers to make informed decisions on their tourism experiences.
    For its efforts in initiating sustainability projects and continuously improving its environmental measures, Amilla Maldives was certified Silver for the third year in a row. One of the resort’s most recent projects was the installation of solar panels in February 2023, which has generated 600,000kwh in nine months – reducing diesel consumption by over 170k litres. Proactive in reducing waste, from plastic, glass and cardboard to food waste, green waste, e-waste and more, the resort regularly audits and investigates its waste output to ensure accurate reporting and identify areas for improvement – as well as organising regular reef cleaning to remove plastics, cans, old rope, and ghost nets from its house reef.
    The resort’s heartfelt commitment to sustainability is further embodied by its Homegrown@Amilla and Homemade@Amilla initiatives. Homegrown@Amilla sees 40 different types of produce planted, cultivated, and grown across 58 acres of the island’s natural green spaces, supplying all the island’s kitchens with ingredients such as leafy greens, herbs, vegetables, and bananas. Homemade@Amilla encompasses a diverse range of organic products which are home-made on the island, from soaps, muscle relief oil, lip balm, bath salts, coconut oils and scrubs, and bathtub tea, to kombucha, nut milks, and bread.
    ADVERTISEMENTAmilla Maldives named ‘Best International Venue’ for accessibility
    Raising awareness of the importance of accessibility in the hospitality and leisure industry, the Blue Badge Awards recognise venues that achieve high standards in this area. Amilla Maldives was named ‘Best International Venue’ in this year’s awards, in recognition of its pioneering commitment to inclusivity and accessibility.
    The world’s first IncluCare-certified resort and a member of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower initiative, Amilla Maldives is devoted to ensuring everyone can enjoy the Maldives. The resort has designed its accessibility features to feel like an integral part of the property, blending seamlessly with its interior design and architecture. Adaptations range from subtly lowered mirrors, sinks and counters in its bathrooms to ramps all over the island – including a growing menagerie of local wildlife-inspired designs. Amilla continually adapts and evolves its offering in order to further improve the resort experience for guests of all abilities and needs, while staff undergo regular training on how they can best support guests with mobility or sensory challenges at all points of their journey.
    For further information and reservations visit www.amilla.com.

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    Sustainability, AI, and ‘Slow’ Travel Set to Be Key Travel Trends

    Travellers from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) plan to increase their spending on breaks and holidays over the next three years and will have more of an eye on sustainability than ever before. In fact, most now check the sustainability of their travel plans, and are prepared to pay over 20% more for environmentally-friendly accommodation.
    Other key trends will also come to the fore. Artificial Intelligence (AI) will become a key tool for holiday planning – with half of people in both the UAE (52%) and KSA (50%) already using it for this purpose. Meanwhile ‘dupe’ destinations – that are similar to traditional holiday destinations but closer and cheaper – will be another key theme.

    In addition, ‘slow holidays’ – where travellers take their time, connect with the local culture, disconnect from technology and minimise their impact on the environment – will be another significant trend.
    ADVERTISEMENTThese are the key outtakes from the Middle East findings of Marriott Bonvoy’s 2024 Future Travel Trends research, in collaboration with foresight agency The Future Laboratory, which analysed the travel plans of 14,000 travellers across Europe and the Middle East over the next three years.

    The rise of AI
    The era of AI holiday planning is very much here – half or more (52% from the UAE and 50% from KSA) have used AI to help them plan or research a holiday. Meanwhile 77% in both countries say they are likely to in the future, showing the trend is set to grow further still.

    Amongst those who did use AI, 95% in both the UAE and KSA say it influenced their holiday decision in some way. This includes booking the accommodation it recommended (36% in UAE and 39% in KSA), booking the activities it recommended (39% in UAE and 31% in KSA), and booking food it recommended (34% in UAE and 35% in KSA).

    Emerging trends
    The research investigates several travel trends that are likely to emerge or strengthen over the coming years. Amongst them, ‘slow holidays’ are becoming increasingly popular. Four in five travellers from the UAE (82%) and 77% from KSA say they have already been on a ‘slow’ holiday. Meanwhile, 82% from the UAE and 80% from KSA say they plan to go on a slow holiday in the next three years.

    In addition, ‘dupe destinations’ – such as the vineyards of Northern Spain instead of South Africa or surfing in Portugal instead of Hawaii– will be another key theme. A third from the UAE (33%) and a similar number from KSA (34%) that are intending to go away in the next three years are planning to save travel time and money by having a similar experience through a ‘dupe destination’.

    Solo holidays, something 70% of travellers from the UAE and 69% from KSA who have been away in the past three years have done in that period, will also continue to be a significant trend, with 70% from UAE and 72% from KSA planning to do one.

    Changing Summer holiday patterns?
    The extremely high temperatures that parts of Europe experienced this summer could be set to impact holiday plans in the coming years for Middle Eastern holidaymakers. Eighty six per cent in the UAE and 83% in KSA say that if these temperatures became a regular occurrence, it would impact their summer holiday plans. While there is no suggestion that people would avoid holidays because of this, some may be amending what they intend to do and when they choose to travel.

    Nearly half in the UAE (46%) and over half in KSA (53%) say they would instead choose to go somewhere cooler, and 26% in UAE and 24% in KSA would visit the destinations at different times of the year.

    Spending and sustainability both up
    More than nine in ten UAE adults (93%) and 89% of adults from KSA say they will be going on holiday next year. Of those going on holiday next year, 66% from the UAE and 69% from KSA say they plan to ‘spend more than usual’ on holidays over the period.

    Over the next three years, sustainability will be on the agenda more than ever before. More than eight in ten from the UAE (83%) and a similar number from KSA (78%) say they would be happy to pay more for environmentally friendly accommodation. The amount extra they would be happy to pay is significant – 21% for those from the UAE and 22% for those from KSA.

    In addition, nearly nine in ten (88%) from UAE and eight in ten (79%) from KSA say that accommodation providers and holiday companies have a responsibility to support the local communities where they offer holidays.

    For many, sustainability is already important – 75% of those from the UAE and 70% of those from KSA say they looked into how sustainable the last accommodation they stayed in was. In addition, 45% from the UAE and 42% from KSA say they check the environmental impact of their travel plans most or every time they travel when they book a holiday.

    Value for money will be key
    Whilst on the whole spending on holidays is set to increase, travellers will continue to seek good value for money and save where they can. Just one per cent of those from the UAE and two per cent of those from KSA planning to take holidays in the next three years say they won’t be looking to save money on some elements of their holidays.

    A third of UAE and KSA travellers (both 32%) will try to save by going on more domestic holidays. And 34% from the UAE and 29% from KSA will use loyalty programmes to pay for some or all of their holiday with points.

    Neal Jones, Chief Sales & Marketing Officer, Marriott International – Europe, Middle East & Africa: “With the leisure travel market well and truly back to ‘normal’ we are now in a stronger position when it comes to looking at future trends and travel habits for the sector over the next few years. The post covid travel rebound is still going strong but because of what travel means to people, there’s been a seismic shift in people’s thought processes and prioritisation of funds. We are seeing that there is a more considered approach to travel, and a more emotional connection to travel that’s really unfolding in tandem with people’s core values.

    “Two trends we have seen coming to the fore in particular from the consumer research are sustainability and AI – particularly amongst younger travellers under the age of 45. Being ecologically responsible is moving from being a ‘nice-to-have’ to a ‘must-have’ for many of these travellers and will only become more so.

    “What’s really interesting to see from this research is the already-established use of AI for holiday planning. Generative AI is perfectly placed to analyse huge amounts of information for travellers, and offer them recommendations based on it. With nine in ten of those who have used it saying it impacted their travel plans, we expect its use to become even more mainstream in the next three years. As a result, travel providers like us need to ensure that we have the information available for AI to find and share with those doing their holiday research.”

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    Luxury pet resort gears up to board an extra 150 festive furry friends

    My Second Home, the world’s largest indoor dog park and Dubai’s first and largest luxury pet resort, is serving up a pawsome family feast this festive season, with Christmas dinner for humans – and a special, free festive meal for their dogs. My Second Home has teamed up with Harness Foods to offer a full traditional Christmas dinner – with a choice of meat, vegetarian and vegan options – and a special festive menu just for their pets.  Priced at AED195 per person, with free delivery in Dubai, My Second Home’s festive feast includes a choice of roast turkey, lamb or beef, salmon en croute, vegetarian wellington, and vegan lentil seed loaf. Each comes with all the trimmings: roast potatoes, honey parsnips, orange and thyme carrots, balsamic-glazed Brussels sprouts, cauliflower cheese, red cabbage, chickens-in-blankets, Yorkshire puddings, stuffing, lashings of gravy and cranberry and bread sauce.  Diners can also choose two desserts from mince pies, sticky toffee pudding, chocolate yule log or apple and blackberry crumble.And the family’s four legged friends can tuck in to roast turkey, lamb or beef, followed by doggie ice-cream, at no charge. To order, email [email protected], or call 055 899 2235 by Thursday, 14 December. My Second Home is also gearing up for its busiest festive season yet in terms of pet boarding, with an additional 150 dogs and cats booked in over Christmas and New Year. Some pooches will stay at My Second Home’s new, AED3.5 million small dogs facility, opening this December. Paul Sowerby, Co-Founder of My Second Home, said: “The festive season is a time for families, and pets are integral to the family unit. Our Christmas dinner offering – for humans and hounds – is part of our continued efforts to enhance the services at My Second Home, and we are expecting a big response to this great-value festive feature.“And for pets who will be without their families this Christmas, we’ll be offering our usual home-from-home comforts as we welcome hundreds of pets festive boarding at our original facility at Dubai Investments Park, our second venue at Al Quoz, and our new premises – exclusively for small dogs – which will open this month.”For more information on My Second Home, visit the website, email [email protected] or call 04 881 8002. 

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