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TRAVEL SELLING

Inspiring those who sell travel

Natural reset Traditional spas, therapies and yoga sessions are no longer enough as clients look to next-generation wellness solutions

• Northern Territory • Thailand • Tenerife • Travel For Every Body Awards winners • Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan • Mountain holidays • Expanded agent section NOVEMBER/DECEMBER : 2026 SELLINGTRAVEL.CO.UK

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Reasons to book your accessible holiday with TUI A dedicated team Our Assisted Travel team and retail experts will find your ideal accessible holiday.

Verified information We’ve partnered with AccessAble to create Detailed Access Guides for our most popular hotels.

Neuro-inclusive holidays Sensory rooms, SEN trained-staff, and neuro-friendly shopping hours in our stores.

In-destination support Accessible transfers and experiences at selected hotels and destinations, plus we offer 24/7 customer support.

Award-winning holidays Our awards include the TTG 2025 Accessible Holidays Provider of the year. Betancuria, Fuerteventura

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Contents / November/December 2026

Inside this issue 17

WELCOME Charlotte Flach, Editor

It’s been a busy few months of events and exciting new projects. Among these, Selling Travel’s Northern Territory hub launched recently, packed with educational materials, selling tips and the chance to win fantastic prizes. Turn to page 17 to learn more. As the nights draw in, clients will be in need of a wellness boost. There’s many interesting innovations in this space so ﬂick to page four to discover what and where to book. Meanwhile, our agent interview features a travel advisor who had an “epiphany” as a teenager and now works with high-networth individuals. Read about her career on page 24. And for adventurous clients, our feature on Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan showcases an emerging destination that’s becoming more accessible. Turn to page 12. And that’s just the half of it – so get stuck in!

Feature: Alternative wellness

Travel for Every Body Awards: 2026 winners

My Journey: Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan

Six of the Best: U.S. national parks

Hub preview: Northern Territory

Agent interview: Teenage travel agent to celebrity advisor

Feature: Year-round ski resorts

Focus on: Thailand

Cover image: unsplash.com/@curatedlifestyle Editor: Charlotte Flach • Contributing Writers: Tamara Hinson, Melita Cameron-Wood, Sally Kirby, April Waterston, Stuart Forster • Editorial Director: Steve Hartridge • Group Editor: Bev Fearis • Digital Editor: April Waterston • Publishers: Steve Thompson steven. thompson@sellingtravel.co.uk • Sally Parker sally.parker@sellingtravel.co.uk • Partnerships Manager: David Wilcox david.wilcox@sellingtravel. co.uk • Circulation Manager: Shani Kunar • Managing Director: Matt Bonner • CEO: Martin Steady • Designers: Caitlan Francis, Colette Denham and Liz Paterson • Operations Director: Clare Hunter • Production Administrator: Steve Hunter (Print) ISSN 2056-9319 ©BMI PUBLISHING LTD 2026. 501 The Residence, No. 1 Alexandra Terrace, Guildford, GU1 3DA, uk. T: 020 8649 7233 enquiries@bmipublishing.co.uk While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, BMI Publishing Ltd cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions.

GROUP PACKAGES AVAILABLE Dining, nature walks and more!

Contact Monica Murillo 760.969.4357 mmurillo@pstramway.com

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Feature

G LO W

U P

F O R

wellness Tamara Hinson looks at how tech, a thirst for knowledge and hotel architecture are shaping the future of wellbeing travel

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Feature / Wellness

t’s 15.00 and I am in the Four Seasons’ Kuala Lumpur’s spa-like Longevity Lounge, unveiled in early 2026. While there’s the usual caffeinefree tea menu and soothing music, the guests sipping their herbal elixirs aren’t waiting for hot stone massages or facials. Some have booked therapies designed to improve circadian alignment, while others have come for hyperbaric oxygen or red light therapy, which uses red and near-infrared wavelengths to stimulate mitochondrial function at a cellular level, helping to improve circulation and joint health while reducing inﬂammation.

Hi-tech health The Four Seasons Kuala Lumpur’s approach reﬂects a major shift in the wellness world – the growing use of tech to identify goals, problem areas and ideal approaches. The University of Derby’s Professor Eleni Michopoulou, who is an expert on the business side of the wellbeing world, explains why this trend has emerged. “For the client, there’s a move towards personalisation and experiences which feel relevant to them and which produce meaningful benefits, whether that’s better sleep or the opportunity to

disconnect, and technology is allowing providers to personalise experiences.” However, while more hotels and resorts are using tech to diagnose possible issues and to customise approaches, wellbeing is no longer just about the therapies on offer. “One of the biggest shifts is from wellness as a treatment or amenity to wellbeing as a more holistic experience,” says Professor Michopoulou. “Increasingly, it’s being woven into the whole experience – sleep, nutrition, movement, nature, mindfulness, social connection and the design of the environment itself.” Michopoulou adds that more awareness about different approaches to wellbeing also means clients are more likely to seek out tailor-made therapies, including ones which use technology to offer more customised approaches.

wellbeing providers have risen to the challenge by offering treatments which arm clients with knowledge, allowing them to continue their wellbeing journey at home. One example is the large number of resorts and retreats now offering therapies focusing on gut health. Japan’s HOSHINOYA Okinawa’s Ryukyu Fermentation Stay was designed for clients who want to soothe and regulate their digestive systems, but it was created in a way which allows them to build on what they learned once back home. Similar offerings can be found at Crete’s Minos Palace Resort, which offers Gut-Brain Reset retreats exploring the increasingly recognised symbiotic relationship between the gut and the brain.

“There is a shift from wellness as a treatment to wellbeing as a holistic experience”

Going with your gut This approach could be welcome news for clients who can’t necessarily afford to simply jet off to a far-ﬂung retreat on a regular basis, and it’s the reason

Feel-good hotel rooms In some ways, getting a wellbeing fix has never been easier, as more properties make hotel design a key part of the wellbeing offering, whether it’s Peninsula Hotels’ decision to offer guests access to the Breethe app, which has guided meditations, W Hotels’ in-room yoga mats or the bedside aromatherapy sprays and encyclopaedia-like pillow menus now commonly found in hotels. “Wellbeing is now seen as a core part of the guest experience,” says Dr Valentina Clergue, an expert on both hospitality management and the

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Pictured: (left to right from top) Bathing in a spring in Costa Rica (G Adventures); The outdoor swimming pool and spa area at the Four Seasons Hotel Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia; Treatments are moving beyond massages, to include tech solutions which improve physical health (Daniel Koh)

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Feature

evolution of wellbeing approaches at the EHL Hospitality Business School in Lausanne, Switzerland. “More hoteliers recognise that wellness is something many guests actively seek when choosing hotels. As a result, wellbeing is being integrated into the design of properties, food and beverage offerings, activities and the overall brand positioning. It’s become one of the pillars of hospitality.”

a walk on the wild side Singapore has long been ahead of the curve when it comes to wellness. Since early 2026 it’s been home to the first Asian forest bathing trail to be certified by the U.S.-based Association of Nature and Forest Therapy (ANFT) – a reminder that there will always be a demand for therapies rooted in nature. The Andaz Peninsula Papagayo resort, in a wonderfully wild chunk of Costa Rica, is a case in point. While there might be less tech, there’s still plenty of innovation, including popular vibroacoustic therapy which uses sound and vibration as a tool for wellbeing, helping guests reach deeper states of relaxation. In recent years, Costa Rica has transformed into one of the world’s top wellness destinations. Stu

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Darnley, National Sales Manager at G Adventures, which recently launched wellbeing-focused holidays to the country, says a big factor is the diversity of the landscapes. “Costa Rica has a very unique, restorative energy that seamlessly bridges active adventure with total relaxation,” he says. G Adventures’ package includes visits to remote eco-lodges in Rincón de la Vieja, secluded surf spots near Sámara and sunset yoga sessions in Playa Carrillo. But there are also plenty of opportunities for deep dives into local culture, Darnlet adds. “Beyond physical wellbeing, the trip nourishes connection through local experiences. For example, there are

“Travellers are prioritising wellbeing experiences in environments which allow for deeper dives into the location” visits to the Mi Cafecito coffee cooperative, where tourism directly supports the local community.” Travellers are also prioritising experiences which allow them to enhance their wellbeing in environments which allow for deeper dives into the location. “More people are increasingly seeking active, authentic ways to switch off from daily life and engage with the world on a deeper physical level. We’ve seen demand soar for our active trip category because people want to get

Pictured: (clockwise from top) Clients want to immerse themselves in nature (G Adventures); Northern lights over Deplar Farm (Deplar Farm Iceland); The Nao Experience at Minos Palace Resort (Bluegr Hotels); Red light therapy is being increasingly offered (Roberta Sant-Anna); Sound healing at Deplar Farm (Deplar Farm Iceland); Many hotels are integrating wellness into their menus (G Adventures)

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Feature / Wellness

“Wellness is being integrated into the design of properties, food and beverage offerings and activities”

out into nature without just following the standard tourist crowd,” says Darnley.

evolving experiences Carrier is another operator to ramp up its wellbeing offers in response to rising demand, and its most popular packages now include a four-night nature-based retreat at Iceland’s Deplar Farm, famous for its Viking-inspired wellness rituals, and a seven-night family wellness escape at Montana’s nature-focused Paws Up Resort, where activities include horse whispering masterclasses. “We’re definitely seeing growing demand for wellbeing experiences that go beyond traditional pampering, because travellers are increasingly focused on how they want to feel, not just during a trip but long after they return home,” says Rebecca Turner, Head of Product at Carrier. “But at the same time, the crowded wellness landscape has become increasingly difficult to navigate, which is why expertly curated programmes are proving so valuable.” It’s also worth noting the recent popularity of certain destinations which weren’t previously known for their wellbeing offerings. Deborah Wadhams, Head of

Worldwide Product at dnata, owner of Gold Medal, points out that South Africa is one destination where nature is shaping a new approach to perceptions of wellbeing. “For us, South Africa is one of the most exciting wellness destinations we sell. It lets clients combine fabulous luxury lodges, wildlife experiences, several wine regions, outdoor adventure and genuine wellness in a single trip,” says Wadhams. “There’s something uniquely restorative about spending time in nature, whether that’s watching wildlife on safari, enjoying a massage in the middle of the bush, or simply switching off from everyday life.” And her top tip for agents when approached by clients looking for a wellbeing fix? “Ask clients what they want to achieve from the trip. Do they want to completely switch off and relax, destress and recharge, be more active or a coimbination of all of the above? Once agents have a graps of the outcome they’re looking for, the right destination, along with the right type of property, programme and pacing, becomes much easier to recommend,” she advises. And the final word goes to Professor SELLINGTRAVEL.CO.UK

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Tamara Hinson Tamara Hinson’s most memorable wellness experiences include Broughton Sanctuary, where she spent five minutes in an ice barrel, the mud spa she visited near Wonsan, North Korea, and the cryotherapy chamber she braved at Singapore’s Mett Hotel.

Michopoulou, who believes that for agets to “add value” it’s crucial that they bear the current shift in thinking in mind when approached by clients keen to book wellbeing breaks. She warns: “It’s no longer about ‘what treatment can I have?’ but ‘how do I want to feel, and what might help me get there?’”

Book it Here are three wellbeing packages for every type of client: For nature lovers G Adventures’ seven-night Wellness Costa Rica trip, which starts and finishes in San José, includes accommodation and all ground transport by private vehicle. It i spriced from £1,599pp, excluding international flights. gadventures.com For a luxury fix Expressions Holidays’ five-night vinotherapy break, based at Bordeaux’s five-star Les Sources de Caudalie hotel, costs from £3,580pp on a B&B basis, including flights from London. expressionsholidays.co.uk For a far-flung feelgood break Carrier offers a seven-night wellbeing retreat at Japan’s Aman Kyoto, from £16,000pp on a B&B basis, including flights from the UK. carrier.co.uk

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Travel for Every Body Awards 2026 The initiative celebrates industry champions and members of the disabled community The winners of Selling Travel‘s Travel For Every Body Awards 2026 were revealed in a ceremony at voco Manchester. Industry partners – including agents, tour operators and destinations – were invited to celebrate the important work being done to champion accessibility and put accessible travel at the top of the industry’s agenda. “Huge congratulations to all our finalists and winners, and a big thank you to all of our sponsors, judges and everyone who joined us at the ceremony,” said Charlotte Flach, Editor of Selling Travel. “The work doesn’t stop here. We want to keep the momentum going to push the

Together we can make a difference

travel industry to do more and to do better. “We are always looking to work with those in the industry – and outside it – on content, projects and partnerships to further champion accessible travel.” The second edition of the awards scheme recognises individuals and organisations driving accessible and inclusive travel forward. The awards form part of Selling Travel‘s wider commitment to accessible travel, building on our Travel For Every Body campaign that has been running since 2023 Thank you again to all our judges, sponsors and attendees.

SPONSORS

Headline

Gold

Silver

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OUR 2026 WINNERS Destination Spanish Tourist Office

Cruise Virgin Voyages Highly Commended: Royal Caribbean

Accommodation Center Parcs Nordborg Resort Highly Commended: Maison des Landes

Airline Virgin Atlantic

Airport Cardiff Airport Highly Commended: Victoria International Airport

Ground Transport Open Road Access

Training Programme Virgin Atlantic

Digital Innovation tabifolk Highly Commended: Eyes Japan

Marketing Campaign Spanish Tourist Office (and LOTUS) Highly Commended: VisitEngland

Outstanding Achievement – Tour Operator Vumbua Africa

Outstanding Achievement – Travel Agency/Agent Sheila Stamp, Travel Counsellors

Travel Accessibility Champion Marina Snellenberg, TUI Highly commended: Julie Jones, Travel Without Limits

Outstanding Contribution Harry Wales, Travelosophers

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Top ten

Top ten experiences in Oklahoma Ancient Indigenous heritage, cowboy culture and excellent gastronomy come together in Oklahoma City and Chickasaw Country.

1 Lake Murray State Park

2 Turner Falls

As Oklahoma’s oldest and largest state park, Lake Murray spans 5,700 surface acres of water framed by diverse terrain, historic sites, and exceptional trails. Situated just five miles off I-35, it offers a true lake-lovers getaway in Chickasaw Country where visitors can spend their time kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, hiking, and cycling.

Turner Falls is one of Oklahoma’s bestknown natural attractions and home to the state’s tallest waterfall at 77 feet. The land surrounding the falls carries rich history, being located in the Arbuckle Mountains on territory that is part of the Chickasaw Nation. Today, the park is dotted with walking trails, swimming areas, and picnic spots.

3 the American West Oklahoma City’s National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum is dedicated to the American West. Collections span cowboy life, rodeo, Native American art, Western paintings and sculpture, alongside galleries exploring ranching and frontier history. It is a cornerstone attraction for visitors wanting to understand the state’s heritage.

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4 Eat Oklahoma City Oklahoma specialities,

City blends regional neighbourhood cafés,

VISITOKC.COM

upscale tasting menus, and culinary traditions rooted in Vietnamese, Mexican, Guatemalan, and Laotian communities. Casual neighbourhood cafés and barbecue at Leo’s BBQ sit alongside James Beard Award-winning tasting menus at Grey Sweater.

5 Chickasaw National Recreation Area Known for its freshwater springs, lakes and wooded trails, the park is a favourite for walking, swimming, kayaking and wildlife watching. Gentle hiking trails wind through forests and alongside creeks, while mineral springs and swimming areas offer welcome relief during Oklahoma’s warmer months. It is an easy addition to a self-drive itinerary.

6 public art scene Oklahoma City is emerging as a destination for creatives. Architectural landmarks like the Skydance Bridge stand tall over the area and the rest of Partner content

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Top ten

6 7

the city has plentiful of colourful murals and sculptures. At night, neon LEDs light up the streets. Use the Public Art OKC Map and Downtown OKC Public Art Map to plan itineraries.

7 Chickasaw story Set within rolling woodland in Sulphur, the Chickasaw Cultural Center introduces visitors to the history, traditions and living culture of the Chickasaw Nation through immersive exhibitions, storytelling and cultural demonstrations. Guests can explore galleries dedicated to Chickasaw heritage, watch traditional dance and crafts and learn about the Chickasaw language.

8 See Bricktown from the water Bricktown is Oklahoma City’s historic entertainment district and its guided water taxi tours are a relaxed way of getting around. Following the canal past former warehouse buildings transformed into restaurants, bars, shops, and attractions, the journey highlights local landmarks, historical monuments, and colourful murals. It is an easy addition to a city break.

9 9 Chisholm Trail

10 Learn Indigenous history

The Chisholm Trail helped shape the American West, and the Chisholm Trail Heritage Center tells its story through interactive exhibits, films and historical displays.Visitors can learn about the cattle drives that carried millions of longhorns north from Texas, explore the lives of cowboys and settlers, and discover how this famous trail transformed Oklahoma’s history. Ideal for clients interested in Western heritage.

The First Americans Museum is one of Oklahoma City’s defining attractions, dedicated to the cultural diversity, histories and the contributions of Oklahoma’s 39 Tribal Nations through powerful exhibitions that connect the past with the present. Art, history, oral traditions, and contemporary Indigenous voices come together in a striking museum that provides essential context for understanding the state’s identity.

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Picture Credits: 1.@ pack the bus; 2. Simon Hurst; 3, 4, 6, 8 & 10. Provided courtesy of Visit OKC 9. Logan Webb; 5 & 7. Provided courtesy of the Chickasaw Nation

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My journey

Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan Nomadic lifestyles and echoes of the Soviet era await in two largely untapped countries that are becoming more accessible, says Melita Cameron-Wood

fter a surprisingly comfortable night in our shared yurt, my eyes rest upon the central ventilation hole in the roof, the tunduk. I recognise it from the Kyrgyz ﬂag – it is a symbol of home. I blink and wrench the blankets off me. Song Kul Lake is calling. Blades of grass wobble in the crisp morning air and I’m struck by the stillness, punctuated only by the occasional bark of a dog or the neigh of a horse. At this point, the capital city of Bishkek seems like a distant memory. The city represents the Sovietencouraged idea of “settling down”, but here, surrounded by nomadic inﬂuences, I’m in another world entirely.

bright lights, big city Our journey begins in Bishkek. Built on a grid and lacking an obvious centre, it makes up for this with an array of white-marble-fronted buildings and a 100-metre ﬂagpole guarded by uniformed men. Nearby street vendors

“Street vendors sell us beverages which remind me of flat Coca Cola” sell us gut-curdling cups of fermented milk, grain and bread beverages, the latter of which remind me of ﬂat Coca Cola. That evening, at Navat, we gorge on diamond-shaped fried dough snacks called borsook. Then, we polish off a hearty plate of beshbarmak, an onion broth with meat and thick, ﬂat noodles. Our minibus driver, Baktybek, has a chirpy vibe that lives up to his name, which means “master of happiness”. Perhaps it has something to do with our next stop being on the outskirts of his home town, Tokmok. Burana Tower, a 10th-century minaret on the site of the

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ancient city of Balasagun, is the ofﬁcial stop, but just outside I admire a yellow mosaic-tiled Soviet-era bus shelter, with a poster advertising a concert by local Kyrgyz pop stars. Within the space of a few metres, we’ve gone from an ancient site to bygone Soviet days to contemporary Kyrgyzstan. This cultural fusion continues at a family-run restaurant in the village of Iskra, where we sample Dungan lagman.. This dish of hand-pulled noodles, stewed vegetables and seasoned beef in a broth originates from the Chinese Muslim Dungan community.

Into nomad territory On the way to Rima Yurt Camp, slopes give way to more slopes until the road is replaced with a dirt track and then a ﬁeld. Yurts are scattered across the meadows – many local families stay here for three months every summer, allowing their livestock to graze before the onset of harsher weather. A young girl waves enthusiastically as our minibus persists onwards. Outside one yurt, I watch a dog chew on a discarded horse hoof. That evening,we sit playing Ordo, a nomadic game involving sheep ankle bones, I realise just how resourceful nomadic culture is; necessity is the mother of invention. Our next stop is Skazka Canyon, which is a short drive from Issyk-Kul, the second-largest high-mountain lake in the world. After a quick dip, we enter the otherworldly labyrinth of rock formations, which seem to glow in a spectrum of red, yellow and ochre. The vastness of the landscape feels as though it could swallow you whole. That evening we arrive at Anyutaika Guesthouse in Tamga village. This Russian-owned business is complete with a banya, a traditional Russian spa with a cold plunge pool, and serves

Traditional Kyrgyz yurt near Song-Kul Lak s e

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Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan

A Kyrgyz woman ek wearing an Elech

“A patriotic bus stop in the Kazakh steppe feels like a refusal to let old Soviet stops stand unaltered” generous portions of borscht. I am sorry to leave in the morning. At Ak-Orgo, a Planeterra-supported business run by local artisans in Barskoon, we learn to erect a yurt, which it turns out is a speedy affair. But looking at the shyrdak, the symbolically embroidered felt wall hangings, I’m sure that hours of work have gone into the yurt’s individual components.

Across the Kazakh border A patriotic bus stop sits alone in the expanse of the Kazakh steppe. It feels like a resolute refusal to let old Soviet stops stand unaltered as they have done in Kyrgyzstan. One bar of Kazakh service-station chocolate later, we pull into Saty, a popular base near Kolsai Lakes National Park. After returning from Kaindy Lake and its famous sunken forest, where inﬂuencers congregate, I relish Saty’s peaceful pastures and gurgling stream. As the sun rises over Saty, we drive to Charyn Canyon. I plunge my swollen feet into Charyn River during our hike. The weather is hot, and I very nearly order an iced camel milk latte. Not quite adventurous enough, instead I opt for an ice cream that trickles down my elbow. On the minibus, we blast Kazakh pop as the steppe gives way to the suburbs. SELLINGTRAVEL.CO.UK

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Almaty, which means “rich in apples”, is an intriguing cultural cocktail. It combines Russian Imperial structures, like Ascension Cathedral, with Soviet architecture, such as the Otrar Hotel. Futuristic mirrored skyscrapers nestle between Western-style cafés and restaurants. In Panﬁlov Park, my ears prick up at the sound of a familiar tune: Ed Sheeran’s Perfect. Only, the song has been translated into Kazakh and a group of men in military uniform, accompanied by women in casual clothing, are dancing a coordinated routine to it. In both Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan, I’ve witnessed the merging of age-old nomadic wisdom, Soviet inﬂuence and a forward-facing determination to carve out a new path, whether that be to the soundtrack of traditional music, a Western hit or somewhere in between. In fact, the in-between is what these nations appear to do best.

Book it G Adventures offers a nine-day Highlights of Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan trip, priced from £1,339pp. All overnight stays; guided experiences; eight breakfasts, three lunches and ﬁve dinners and a yurt building demonstration are included. gadventures.com

Pictured: (clockwise from top left) Over 70% of Kyrgyzstan is covered by mountains (Gary Arndt); The Ascension Cathedral in Almaty; Horses in the Song Kul region (Gary Arndt); Melita CameronWood; A vendor selling an assortment of dried fruits, nuts, and spices at Osh Bazaar in Bishkek (Afham Hamsyari); Valley of the Castles at Charyn Canyon in Kazakhstan

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Six of the best

U.S. NATIONAL PARKS

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America’s national parks showcase the country’s landscapes and diversity, and can be focal points in memorable holidays, says Stuart Forster

BRYCE NATIONAL PARK, UTAH

A 30-minute drive from Cleveland, the landscape along the Cuyahoga (meaning ‘crooked’) River was designated as a national park in 2000. Accessible via a boardwalk, the cascading Brandywine Waterfalls are a reason to visit, as are hikes on the Ohio and Erie Canal Towpath Trail. Rail enthusiasts can take the four-hour, 15-minute trip on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad or express trips of two hours.

A 270-mile drive from Salt Lake City, the landscape here is characterised by U-shaped natural amphitheatres and red, sculpture-like rock formations known as hoodoos. It is named after the pioneer Ebenezer Bryce, who settled the area in the 1870s. With spectacular trails and popular with photographers, the area is welllocated for combining into road trips featuring Utah’s ‘Big Five’.

MITCH SMITH

NPS PHOTO/STEVE REDMAN

CUYAHOGA NATIONAL PARK, OHIO

More than a mile deep, the sheer vastness and beauty of this natural phenomenon will impress any client. The South Rim Visitor Center offers insights into the formation of the canyon and sweeping perspectives from its viewing point. The sunsets at Hopi Point reward the sevenmile hike along the Hermit Road, or a helicopter ride makes the most of the views. Flagstaff is a 90-minute drive from the park.

NPS PHOTO/JANE GAMBLE

GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK, ARIZONA

EVERGLADES NATIONAL PARK, FLORIDA

HOT SPRINGS NATIONAL PARK, ARKANSAS

Under an hour’s drive from Miami, this national park will turn 80 years old in 2027. Spanning an area larger than the island of Mauritius, the subtropical wilderness encompasses forest, marine habitats and wetlands formed by a slowmoving river. Take a boat tour to spot animals such as alligators, caimans and crocodiles. More than 360 bird species have been recorded, making the park ideal for keen birders.

An hour’s drive from the state capital Little Rock, this park is ideal for clients who enjoy hiking and then relaxing in a hot bath. It has more than 20 miles of trails and over 40 geothermally heated springs. The mineral-rich water’s therapeutic qualities were appreciated long before European settlers built the eight baths on Bathhouse Row. Beer aficionados can sample pints from Superior Bathhouse Brewery.

MOUNT RAINIER WASHINGTON

NATIONAL

PARK,

This national park in the Cascade Mountains is named after the highest active volcano in the contiguous states. The landscape’s 25 glaciers are the starting point of five major rivers, including the Cowlitz. With waterfalls, meadows that bloom with spring flowers and swathes of ancient forest, this national park offers hiking trails of varied levels.

Pictured: Bryce Canyon (Peter Densmore)

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FLA

AS elevated

G S TA F F

AZ it gets WELCOME TO FLAGSTAFF, THE WORLD’S FIRST INTERNATIONAL DARK SKY CITY. EXPERIENCE GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK, NATIONAL MONUMENTS AND ARIZONA STATE PARKS WITH ROUTE 66 CENTENNIAL AND AMERICA 250 CELEBRATIONS.

arizona

Plan several vacation days in Flagstaff’s four-season mountain town, where natural beauty meets nonstop adventure. Hike scenic trails, celebrate events for the Route 66 Centennial and America 250 Semiquincentennial, experience world-class stargazing at Lowell Observatory - where Pluto was discovered – and savor award winning breweries and restaurants, vibrant downtown charm, rich Indigenous culture, and lively music festivals.

discoverfl agstaff.com

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Australia’s Northern Territory

THE NORTHERN TERRITORY UNCOVERED Agents are invited to learn about Australia’s Northern Territory in order to boost their sales, maximise commission and potentially win fabulous prizes

WIN FABULOUS PRIZES Three prizes are on offer for agents who complete, and score highly in, a quiz hosted on the dedicated NT hub. All high scoring entries will be entered into a prize draw. • Top prize: Take to the skies on a hot air balloon ride. One lucky agent will take home the top prize for themself and a guest. • Second prize: The agent who scores second place will win a £100 voucher which can be spent at R M Williams, the iconic premium Aussie clothing brand. • Third prize: An additional third place winner will be sent a luxurious hamper of NT-themed goodies.

fascinating landscapes waiting to be discovered – and plenty of opportunities for travel agents to build itineraries that go further.

get involved To help agents uncover more of what this remarkable region has to offer, Selling Travel has teamed up with Tourism and Events Northern Territory on an interactive digital campaign designed to boost destination knowledge, inspire new itineraries and unlock more selling opportunities. There are plenty of ways to build your expertise and get more from the experience: Explore the hub: Read our features and discover experiences beyond the NT’s best-known attractions. Sign up to our newsletters: Stay up to date with destination inspiration, campaign content and useful travel trade insights. Complete our surveys: Share your knowledge at the start and end of the campaign to help measure how much you’ve learned. Become an Aussie Specialist: Take your destination knowledge further with training through the Aussie Specialist SELLINGTRAVEL.CO.UK

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TOURISM AUSTRALIA

rom the iconic landscapes of Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park and the ancient wonders of Kakadu National Park to the dramatic cliffs of Kings Canyon, Australia’s Northern Territory (NT) is home to some of the country’s most extraordinary experiences. But beyond the bucket-list sights lies a world of adventure, culture and

“There’s so much more that travel agents could learn about the NT” Pictured: (clockwise from top) The distinctive red landscapes of Uluru; Ormiston Gorge in the West MacDonnell Ranges– you can swim in a permanent waterhole, walk through the gorge or tackle longer walks (Tourism Australia)

Program, including a Northern Territory module. (aussiespecialist.com/en-gb) Test your knowledge: Take the campaign quiz and put what you’ve learned to the test. Scan to access the NT hub or visit sellingtravel.co.uk/ hubs/northern-territory

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TOURISM & EVENTS NT

Focus on

DARWIN The Northern Territory is often described as an outdoor adventure playground. It is a place where dramatic landscapes, ancient culture and wildlife all come together, but its gateway city is also well worth visiting. Australia’s only tropical capital, Darwin, is a true melting pot of cultures and has a unique and compelling vibe. It is certainly a great jumping -off spot, with easy access to many surrounding adventures, but it also has a lot going on within the city limits as a thriving hub of activity, events and experiences. The city is an excellent foodie destination featuring everything from vibrant markets brimming with international cuisine to top-notch restaurants and an annual laksa festival. It also features many museums, art galleries and centres dedicated to Indigenous art and culture. Plus, Darwin is also perfectly placed for day trips out into the Top End national parks. To find out more about what to do in and around the NT’s gateway city, scan the code to visit the NT hub.

Some destinations and experiences become iconic. They grab the tourism headlines, attract the crowds and establish themselves as honeypot locations. But what happens when your clients have been there and done that but are left wanting more? And how do you help those clients who can’t afford the high-end price tag that often goes with these top-of-mind experiential destinations? Check out some NT star attractions that will help tick off a multitude of bucket-list yearnings with alternatives every bit as compelling as their better known tourism cousins.

go wild Clients may have been on a safari in South Africa or Tanzania, but how about some up close and personal wildlife encounters with crocodiles, buffalo, wallabies and brumbies (wild horses) out at Bamurru Plains, or a scenically

TOURISM & EVENTS NT/@_ASWEWANDER

TOURISM AND EVENTS NT

Pictured: (top to bottom) East Point Reserve, Darwin; Mindil Beach Sunset Markets

NORTHERN TERRITORY DUPES

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stunning cruise spotting crocs and native birds on the Yellow Water Billabong.

make a splash Travellers seeking a tropical escape may think first of Bali or Costa Rica, but Litchfield National Park has the kudos of combining the spectacular splash of Florence Falls, Wangi Falls and Buley Rockhole, plus many more. If waterfalls are what’s desired, Litchfield is the place to go! For a full list of incredible NT dupes, scan the code to visit the NT hub.

“Clients may have been on a safari, but how about some up close wildlife encounters at Bamurru Plains” Pictured: (top to bottom) Couple on tour at Bamurru Plains; Buley Rockhole

Scan to access the NT hub or visit sellingtravel.co.uk/ hubs/northern-territory

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Australia’s Northern Territory

The Top End If you think of the Northern Territory as red and dusty, think again. The Top End, the north of the NT, is tropical, and that means it is lush and green. Famous for its pristine nature and diverse wildlife, it is an area of monsoon, tropical rainforests, dramatic waterfalls and beautiful national parks. With Darwin at its heart, this is an area with a stunning coastline and vibrant sunsets, embedded with stories of an ancient people in every landscape and at multiple rock art sites. As visitors venture further, they will find much more to explore. Litchfield

National Park is the nearest national park – only 60 minutes’ drive from the city.

The red centre In contrast, the centre of the territory is, as its name implies, red! The colour comes from the iron content of local sand and sandstone best known from Uluru. But if you think the Red Centre is just about Uluru, there’s more you need to know. Here, beautiful rich red desert stretches as far as the eye can see. Sacred and culturally significant sites dot the area, and everywhere the evenings are bathed in serene and peaceful sunsets. For a comprehensive look at both the Top End and the Red Centre, scan the code to visit the NT hub.

TOURISM & EVENTS NT/KANGAROO SANCTUARY

The Northern Territory really is two destinations in one. Its contrasting landscapes and attractions ensure a double whammy of joy for travellers Down Under.

TOURISM & EVENTS NT / JOSHUA GRIFFIN

TOP END VS THE RED CENTRE

Pictured: (above top to bottom) Uluru walk; Alice Springs Kangaroo Sanctuary

Check out these immersive mustsees which not only guarantee an insta-worthy photo but also set the backdrop for some truly unforgettable experiences.

TOURISM & EVENTS NT/HELEN ORR NGARUWANAJIRRI ART CENTRE

1. World-class sunsets When the sun sets over Darwin, something magical happens. The clear skies and wide horizons combine with the atmospherics to summon a vibrant palette of oranges, pinks, reds and purples. Kick back and enjoy the best views from the Mindil Beach Sunset Market, the Darwin Sailing Club or during a harbour cruise.

“Australian Aboriginal culture is the world’s oldest continuous living culture, dating back over 50,000 years” 2. Billabong at sunset Lined with paperbark forests and mangroves, the Yellow Water Billabong, in World- Heritage-listed Kakadu, offers the chance to cruise past dozing crocodiles and spot fabulous native birds (more than 30% of Australia’s bird species live here). Ramp up the awe and wonder by boarding a sunset cruise when the billabong is bathed in the incredible evening light. 3. Helicopter over Nitmiluk View the sandstone escarpments, winding rivers and 13 individual gorges of Nitmiluk Gorge from a helicopter ride out of Katherine. With a bird’s-eye view of Jedda’s Rock, Butterﬂy Gorge, Lily Ponds, the 17 Mile Valley and Arnhem Land, this is a chance to see the landscape that inspired local Aboriginal dreaming stories and local history.

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TOURISM & EVENTS NT/ROADY TRAVEL

TOP “WOW” MOMENTS IN THE NT

Pictured: (left to right) Ngaruwanajirri Art Centre, Tiwi Islands; Sunset, Mindil Beach, Darwin

4. Aboriginal insights Australian Aboriginal culture is the world’s oldest continuous living culture, dating back at least 50,000 years. Take a short ferry ride from Darwin to the Tiwi Islands and visitors can instantly immerse themselves in that ancient culture through Aboriginal art galleries and cultural interactions with the locals of these ‘Islands of Smiles’. For more “wow” moments, scan the code to visit the NT hub.

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How to sell

NORTHERN TERRITORY

Darwin Litchfield National Park

From adventuring in nature to exploring the NT’s gateway city Darwin, here’s how agents can sell the “real Australia” to their clients

Kakadu Arnhem National Land Park Nitmiluk National Park Katherine

s way Nature’

Top End

orers

Expl way

A trip from the UK to Australia is big. For most, booking it brings a sense of excitement and adventure. The NT gives them the “real Australia”. It is a place where they can really get under the skin of Australia’s culture and history, and get a true sense of the immense scale of the destination. Darwin is one of the closest Aussie gateways to the UK – just over 18 hours’ ﬂying time, making it much quicker to get to than other gateway cities.

WHO TO SELL TO

WHEN TO SELL Remember the NT has two distinct seasons – the wet and the dry. Most people tend to visit in the dry season (May to October) when the humidity is lower in the Top End and temperatures are cooler in the Red Centre. From November to April, the Top End sees tropical rains and high humidity. On the plus side the rivers and waterfalls are then in full ﬂow, with spectacular electrical storms which illuminate the sky, lush landscapes and fewer crowds.

HOW LONG TO STAY For a Top End stay five or six nights are recommended to take in Darwin and explore Litchfield and Kakadu National Parks and Arnhem Land. The same is best for the Red Centre, as there are multiple attractions at Alice Springs and Uluru, plus Katherine, Nitmiluk National Park, Kata Tjuṯa (The Olgas) and Kings Canyon.

TOURISM NT

The NT definitely offers epic backdrops for adventurers. Those vast landscapes: outback, bush, desert, tropical rainforests, gushing waterfalls and rivers bring instant excitement but the Territory also has luxury and many opportunities to connect with incredible wildlife, phenomenal natural beauty and a slower pace. It is a real escape, not just a holiday, but a chance to gain insights into another way of living. Whether your clients want to explore with a backpack and a tented camp or a high-end self-drive between luxury resorts, the NT delivers.

NORTHERN TERRITORY Nature and wildlife lovers are quickly wowed, while history and culture buffs can literally learn from Aboriginal peoples whose ancestors have been sharing their stories here for over 60,000 years.

Karlu Karlu (Devils Marbles)

WESTERN AUSTRALIA

QUEENSLAND

Alice Springs

Kings Canyon Red Centre Way

Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park

Red Centre

Pictured: (top to bottom) Visitors to the NT can take part in immersive cultural experiences; A picnic with ﬁzz in the West MacDonnell Ranges outside of Alice Springs

TOURISM NT

WHY SELL IT

GETTING AROUND Getting around by car or campervan is actually easy with good road links between all the major destinations. Although journey times may be up to three hours between key sites, all routes use sealed roads, navigation is simple and it is very difficult to get lost. There are three easy self-drive routes to help with planning – Nature’s Way, Red Centre Way and the Explorers Way. Campervan facilities are widely available and well organised. For a detailed guide to selling the NT, including a downloadable PDF and extended digital article, scan the code to visit the NT hub. Scan to access the NT hub or visit sellingtravel.co.uk/ hubs/northern-territory

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On location / Canadian Rockies

CANADIAN ROCKIES Hannah Porter journeys through the Canadian Rockies, discovering scenery, culture and experiences that bring the destination to life

he Canadian Rockies had been on my list for a while so it was brilliant to ﬁnally experience them with Trafalgar. It was such a fantastic trip and one that exceeded every expectation I had. 1 Our adventure began in Calgary, where we met our Travel Director and the rest of the group. From day one I didn’t have to think about logistics like where we were staying, driving, parking, excursions, or timings. It was all taken care of, so I could just sit back and soak it all in. 2 The next morning we headed into the mountains, stopping at Lake Louise on the way to Jasper. You know when you see somewhere on Instagram and think “That can’t really look like that”? It actually does, with turquoise waters and enormous mountains either side. 3 In Jasper National Park we cruised across Maligne Lake to Spirit Island. Trafalgar’s Be My Guest experience, in collaboration with Jasper Theatre Productions, gave us a real local connection – that is, meeting people who live there, hearing their stories and having a good laugh too. 4 The drive along the Iceﬁelds Parkway was a huge highlight. You’re surrounded by mountains, glaciers and

lakes the entire way, and you can’t appreciate the scale until you experience it yourself. We stopped at Athabasca Falls and at the Columbia Icefield before arriving in Banff. 5 Banff was our base for the final leg of the trip. In nearby Canmore we took part in another Trafalgar initiative, a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER™ experience. Ours was a Cree-led session on the significance of buffalo, during which we heard about the destination from those with a real connection to it. We also had downtime to explore independently and it truly felt like I was experiencing the Rockies rather than just there to take photos – although I did get some brilliant ones!

MY TOP SELLING TIPS I can now sell the destination properly. I can tell clients what days spent there are actually like, and that’s so much more powerful than just sending a brochure. Here’s how I would sell it: * Sell the experience, not just the destinations. Instead of saying “you’re going to Banff, Jasper and Lake Louise,” talk about the scenery, the glaciers, the wildlife and those moments where you can’t believe what you’re seeing. I will also mention the drives between places.

ALBERTA

A seven-day Canada’s Rockies trip is priced from £2,138pp, including a 10% discount offer, with departures in May 2027. trafalgar.com/en-gb

Banff

1 Calgary

BRITISH COLOMBIA

Pictured: (clockwise from top) Hannah by the shore of Lake Louise in Banff National Park, Alberta; An American black bear; Banff Avenue; Map of locations visited

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Managing Director Travel by Hannah

book it

Edmonton 2 Jasper 3 Maligne Lake 4 Athabasca Falls 5

Hannah Porter

* Don’t be afraid to suggest Canada to clients who haven’t necessarily asked for it; sometimes they just need you to put the idea in their head. * Don’t pigeonhole touring. It isn’t just for one type of traveller, there are lots of clients who’ll love this style of holiday, especially if they want to see a lot without organising it all themselves. * If you get the chance to join a Trafalgar trip yourself, go for it. You will come home with so many insights you just can’t get from simply referring to an itinerary – such as the standout experiences and which clients would love it.

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Foursight

Anneka Desrosiers

Co-Director at Southern Cross Travel Wadhurst

THE FAMILY BUSINESS

THE INDEPENDENT AGENT

As someone who learned how to be a travel agent vocationally, rather than academically, this is an interesting topic for me. Being a great travel agent is a role that you learn through years of experience and working in the business. However, although I did learn “on the job”, I do feel that a qualification would recognise the skills and work involved. It would also show our worth as agents to the general public – I think there is still, sadly, a misconception of our job being easy, and, in an age of technology threatening our worth as experienced individuals, a qualification would prove we DO know what we’re talking about! I also feel travel is an industry which welcomes people from all walks of life and alternative work experience is so valuable in a job where you wear multiple hats in a day – travel planner, customer services, finance officer, problem solver, counsellor, and, with some clients, a mind reader..!

I have a degree in Leisure and Tourism Management BA (Hons) and I have also completed a Diploma in Transport, as well as a City and Guild ABTA Certificate. I am a strong believer in obtaining qualifications in the industry which you work in, whether that be a diploma or a degree, and after attaining these qualifications, applying these in their place of work. Having worked in various travel-related occupations, including in hotels, at a tour operator and in a travel agency, I have found the latter to be the most challenging but rewarding. It is these various experiences, coupled with my qualifications, that has provided me the knowledge and understanding I need to be a successful travel agent. In the future, I hope to pass on my teachings and experience, to those who are seeking to aspire, learn, and more importantly, apply all this in their career in the travel industry.

Nilesh Keral

Operations Manager of AJ Tours and Travels Middlesex

Should there be an official ABTA recognised qualification for travel agents? How would this work in practice?

Liz Beaty

Director at The Travel Team Brampton, Cumbria

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THE HIGH STREET AGENCY

THE PATA AGENT

I do believe there should be more recognised travel agency qualifications. Apprenticeship schemes can be for all ages and there are some great courses for older agents now. A travel agency qualification endorsed by ABTA as an industry standard would give businesses a good benchmark. While agency experience is also invaluable, it can’t always be measured. Most other businesses have some form of continuous professional development, so why shouldn’t travel agencies? This could work as a tiered qualification, from an entry level for new agents through to more advanced levels covering areas such as sales, customer service, consumer protection, AI and social media. Agents could complete modules online, with regular refresher training. This would give us a recognised career pathway, reassuring customers that their agents have the right knowledge and skills.

Regulation in the travel industry reassures me that an airline pilot requires a licence and a ship’s captain is conversant in maritime navigation. But do we need to regulate agents who resell air tickets or book cruises? Consumers do not think so – as is evident by the millions of people who arrange their own holidays direct on the internet. So, the last thing we need is more red tape imposing a burden and cost on agents and travel advisors. I don’t mean to diminish the importance of training; knowledge is a key part of our value proposition. I enjoy working in this industry because there is always more to learn. There is a wealth of learning available with online and in-person training offered by tour operators, tourist boards and trade organisations. It’s important that we retain the freedom to select training which is relevant to our clients and beneﬁts our business.

John Coles

Managing Director, Kew Bridge Travel London

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01/10/2026 10:54

Agent interview

Meet May Swan-Easton, a Travel Counsellor who has rubbed shoulders with the rich and famous. Charlotte Flach hears how she builds trust with her high-net-worth clients

“I had an epiphany”: From teenage travel agent to advis0r for millionaires the industry,” she says. “I’ve worked in retail travel, tour operating and overseas repping, and I’ve worked for 12 different companies over the years.”

The A-list

Pictured: (clockwise from above) May meets an elephant on a fam trip to Thailand; May (in the centre) at her first job in travel at Tom Hill Holidays

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ay realised that being a travel agent was her calling while she was on her first fam trip in Mallorca aged 17. Initially, she had dreamed of becoming cabin crew, but describes the moment it all clicked for her: “I woke up early, walked across to the beach, took my sandals off and stepped into the sea. I remember thinking, ‘This is it. This is what I want to do for the rest of my life,’” she says. May realised that air hostessing was just a way to travel: what she really loved was travel itself. What followed is almost five decades working in the travel industry. “I’ve been incredibly lucky because I’ve experienced almost every side of

May also spent time working in Mallorca and Florida, organised fam trips, looked after sales teams and eventually specialised in luxury and corporate travel. During her time at a luxury travel company she looked after a number of celebrity clients, building a foundation of trust with high-net-worth individuals that still serves her well today. After “becoming frustrated” with having to recommend what someone else wanted her to promote, rather than what was genuinely right for her clients, May pivoted to become a Travel Counsellor 17 years ago. She now organises travel for a longstanding wealthy client, who often spends six figures on annual trips. She describes putting together his 70th birthday celebration based on a simple instruction: “I want the wow factor”. Put to work, May created a weekend itinerary for 50 guests, which included a private jet, a luxury hotel in Salzburg, a Michelin-starred dinner, a private boat cruise and a performance by the client’s favourite opera singer. Guests travelled from New Zealand, New York, Spain and across the UK, but nobody knew where they were heading

until they reached the destination. “The trip was worth around £120,000, and I was invited to travel with the group to make sure everything ran perfectly,” explains May proudly.

In it for the long haul But being a travel agent isn’t just all glitz and glamour. May describes having to deal with a crisis during the birthday: “During the weekend, one guest received the devastating news that her sister was critically ill. I organised flights home, airport transfers and transport to the hospital overnight so she could get back to her family as quickly as possible.” It’s these moments that define what it means to be an exceptional agent, May enthuses. “One client once explained that he knew if anything went wrong I’d fight his corner without him having to ask. If I look after people in the right way they’ll come back – and they will recommend me to their friends.” She also puts her clients’ loyalty down to the relationships she’s built with them. “They’re not really clients anymore— they’re friends,” she says. “When a client says, ‘You just know what I like,’ that’s because we’ve built that relationship over many years. “Every day I make my own phone ring. That’s through repeat clients, recommendations and relationships I’ve built over many years,” she adds. May has a lot of to be proud of after 47 years working in travel. Recently she has become a Travel Counsellor Mentor for younger Travel Counsellors joining the company, passing on her knowledge and experience to the next generation of travel agents.

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Co mi ng

... Small group adventures

Don’t just travel, Explore!

SAVE 20%*

on 1500+ departures in 2027. Sale runs 19 Nov to 1 Dec 2026.

*Save 20% applies to 1500+ 2027 departures between 1 Mar - 31 Dec 2027. Saving is off the tour price only, excl. flights & extras. Excl. Eclipse Tours, Polar & Galapagos Cruises and exclusive and private groups. Offer cannot be combined with Explore loyalty or loyalty switch discount. Sale runs 19 Nov to 1 Dec 2026. Details correct at time of print. Offer may be withdrawn at any time. For full Ts&Cs, included trips & departure dates see explore.co.uk/blackfriday

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Connect events

CONNECT SHOWCASE EDINBURGH

elling Travel’s Showcase event featured the following updates. Expeditions and rail: Australis runs small expedition ships through Patagonia’s narrow fjords, offering guided landings in remote areas. Canyon Spirit’s Rockies to the Red Rocks route now includes a three-day journey to Salt Lake City, alongside its two-day Denver-Moab option. Destinations: Costa Rica promoted its year-round appeal, from Arenal Volcano’s birdlife to surfing and

whale watching. Guatemala launched Guatemala Insider, a 10-module online training platform for agents. Tampa Bay highlighted British Airways’ move to Heathrow, five flights weekly, plus new hotels. Tour operators: Cox & Kings will add Australia, New Zealand and North America. Explore Worldwide has two new Mexico tours. Travelpack’s eightnight Christmas markets break covers Berlin, Prague, Vienna and Budapest from £939pp.

Pictured: (clockwise from top) Lake Atitlán, Guatemala (Mark Harpur); Agents have the chance to pose questions to a panel; Events take place at central and premium locations

CONNECT SHOWCASE LONDON

S Pictured: (clockwise from top) Los Glaciares National Park (Arto Martinnen); Partners have the chance to reiterate their key messages at the end of the event; An agent collects her prize

elling Travel Connect Showcase brought together ten par tners offering deals and new products for agents. Cruise and rail: Antarctica 21 offers fly-cruises from Punta Arenas, avoiding the Drake Passage, with savings of up to $5,000 on 2027-28 departures and a new vessel, Magellan Discoverer. Canyon Spirit continues its Utah Luxury Tours partnership into 2027, allowing guests to take pre- or post-

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tours in some of Utah’s most popular national parks as well as Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Park. Destinations: Delta launches nonstop Paris-Austin flights from March 27, 2027, while Fredericksburg anticipates new hotels, including Texas’s first Waldorf Astoria. Mississippi highlights Elvis’s 50th anniversary, the Chickasaw Heritage Center and Amtrak’s Mardi Gras service. Hotels: Cinnamon offers Maldives

options for divers, surfers and honeymooners. RIU operates over 100 hotels across 22 countries in prime beachfront locations around the world. TreeHouse Villas Koh Yao is a new adults-only Thai resort. Tour operators: Explore Worldwide offers over 400 tours. Travelpack promotes three-year guaranteed pricing. Wendy Wu Tours rewards agents with tiered status and annual VIP trips.

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Connect events

CONNECT NORTH AMERICA NEWCASTLE AND CHESTER

elling Travel’s two North America Connect events proved a hit with agents. Here’s a summary of key messages from partners. Alaska Airlines’ new Seattle-Athens service starts on May 12 2027, the first nonstop connection between the cities. Baltimore offers travellers excellent value and opportunities to enjoy worldclass museums, live sports, AfricanAmerican heritage and Maryland blue crabs. Amtrak connections make it easy to combine with East Coast cities. British Airways now offers five flights a week to Tampa Bay, Florida, from London Heathrow. That makes it easier for tourists to experience Tampa Bay’s tourism developments, including the new Pendry and Moxy/AC hotels and the boutique Inn at El Reloj. The Great Lakes USA region spans eight states. Holding around 20% of the world’s surface freshwater, the Great Lakes form the planet’s largest freshwater system. Huntington Beach is an ideal base for families and is Disneyland’s nearest beach, a 25-minute drive away. A 45- to 60-minute drive from LAX, Huntington Beach is a good destination to begin or end a Southern California itinerary. Lubbock, Texas, has a western heritage, embracing creativity, country music and its role as Buddy Holly’s birthplace. Prairie Dog Town is home to one of the country’s longestestablished prairie dog colonies while bison are among the attractions in Caprock Canyons State Park. Mississippi will commemorate the

50th anniversary of Elvis Presley’s passing in 2027 with special events, exhibitions and musical tributes in Tupelo and elsewhere in the state. North America Travel Service’s holidays have been tailor-made since the company’s formation and that personal approach remains at the heart of everything NATS does. For the fourth consecutive year, Philadelphia was named the country’s Most Walkable City to Visit in USA TODAY’s 10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards. Now a Michelin-starred restaurant city, Philadelphia will host RockyFest in December 2026. Sun Peaks has British Columbia’s highest 18-hole golf course, standup paddle-boarding, canoeing and kayaking, as well as guided hiking tours, horse riding and the thrills of a downhill mountain bike park. The gateway to Ontario, Toronto, is a great destination for a city break, with world-class dining, diverse neighbourhoods, the CN Tower, St. Lawrence Market and Toronto Islands.

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Pictured: (Clockwise from top) Sun Peaks resort; Agents speed-networking with partners; LOVE sculpture in Center City, Philadelphia; The Philadelphia partner ready to welcome agents; A decorative badge shaped like the state of Florida

Travelpack’s three-year Out of Date Range guaranteed pricing enables clients to plan major holidays around key dates. Visit Florida’s Live More Floridays campaign highlights the state’s diverse range of experiences beyond theme parks. Away from the beaches, Florida offers culture, nature, cuisine and unique communities. ZooTampa’s redesigned Florida Waters exhibit showcases the state’s unique marine ecosystems and the zoo’s manatee rescue and rehabilitation work.

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Connect events

CONNECT TENERIFE EDINBURGH, BELFAST AND BRISTOL Tenerife is known for its sunshine and beaches but its tourism offering extends well beyond holiday resorts. Agents who attended dedicated Selling Travel Connect Tenerife events heard how the island’s tourism offering includes year-round hiking in the UNESCO Anaga Biosphere Reserve and stargazing in Teide National Park – the location of Spain’s highest peak. The newly refurbished Altavista Refuge offers guests a place to stay at 3,260 metres above sea level, ideally placed for early ascents to Mount Teide’s summit. The cultural heritage and glamour of the Carnival is another reason to visit, alongside whale-watching, nine Michelin-starred restaurants, traditional gastronomy, wine and sports tourism. Tenerife is a year-round destination with a spring-like climate. Flights to the island take about 4.5 hours from London. Here’s a round up of partner messages from the events:

something for everyone Bahia Principe’s portfolio is designed to suit a range of travel styles. Bahia Principe Escape Tenerife is an adultsonly (+16) retreat, ideal for relaxing at Costa Adeje, while Bahia Principe Explore Fantasia is closest to the airport. In the north, Bahia Principe Explore San Felipe is ideal for exploring in and around Puerto de la Cruz. Meanwhile, Bahia Principe Explore Costa Adeje will reopen fully renewed in December 2026 and is designed for fun-seeking families. Coral Hotels has a portfolio of properties across the Canary Islands. Catering for a range of travellers – including families, couples and groups – options include all-inclusive packages for relaxation or flexible apartment-style stays. The hotels are a way to discover beaches and local culture while enjoying outstanding hospitality under the sun. H10 Hotels’ portfolio of seven fivestar hotels offers guests delightful seafront locations, first-class facilities and memorable gastronomy. It is one of the top 10 hotel companies in Spain. H10 Hotels’ environmental and social commitment allows the company’s activity to be defined by the implementation of its Stay Green Sustainability Plan.

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Pictured: (Clockwise from top) Kayaking at Los Gigantes; Garachico, a town on the northern coast of Tenerife; A prizewinning agent; A total of 110 agents attended the three events; The Parish Church of San Marcos in Icod de los Vinos; Anaga Rural Park; Women dining at Bar Playa Casa África by the black-sand beach of Roque de las Bodegas; Village of Vega de las Mercedes; Speed-networking with partners; Agents listen to an informative presentation

HOVIMA Hotels has seven hotels in prime locations in the south of Tenerife. For families, there is the beachfront HOVIMA La Pinta. For solo travellers, the adults-only HOVIMA Cool Costa Adeje offers refined dining, wellness and elegance. For a more intimate and tranquil retreat, HOVIMA Panorama is ideal for couples. The new HOVIMA Suites Costa Adeje offers premium comfort, while the HOVIMA Santa María, HOVIMA Jardín Caleta and HOVIMA Atlantis are suited for leisure travellers seeking value. The Meliá Jardine del Teide is an exclusive adults-only (16+) hotel in the south of Tenerife. With an outstanding location in Costa Adeje, its modern facilities and distinctive architectural design redefine sophistication. Stylish and spacious rooms present spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean and local flavours meet international cuisine in the hotel’s restaurants.

Neighbouring La Gomera Offering views of the island of La Gomera, the Hyatt Ziva Jardin Tropical Tenerife is at Costa Adeje’s Puerto Colón by the La Pinta and El Bobo beaches. Its

all-inclusive offering includes unlimited premium beverages, a mini-bar that is restocked every day, room service, gourmet dining and live entertainment. Ideal for couples or families with children, the accommodation includes a furnished balcony or terrace. On La Gomera, the four-star Jardín Tecina Hotel is built like a Canarian village within a large, responsibly managed garden. Completely renovated in 2024, the hotel has five different room types plus an exclusive adultsonly (16+) area with a range of sports

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Connect events

and leisure activities, and a spa with an outdoor relaxation area. Tecina Golf is considered one of the Canary Islands’ top three courses.

Tenerife DMCs Senda Ecoway specialises in designing and operating tailor-made travel experiences across the Canary Islands. The company creates authentic and sustainable programmes for travellers looking to discover the Canary Islands beyond the traditional tourist offering. The portfolio includes local gastronomy and cultural experiences, plus full support on the ground. Touring Canarias is a DMC specialising in nature-based, active and responsible tourism. The company designs experiences tailored to travellers, including hiking routes across Teide and the island’s laurel forest, cultural offerings revealing the Canary Islands’ essence, shore excursions for cruise passengers and wine and gastronomy experiences. Turisbeds is the incoming travel specialist of the Viajes Insular Group, one of the Canary Islands’ leading destination management companies. It supplies tailor-made solutions for tour operators and travel agencies. The company portfolio encompasses airport transfers, accommodation, excursions, attraction tickets, group handling, incentives and bespoke travel experiences. It operates with cutting-edge booking technology and a dedicated multilingual team. WEBTENERIFE.CO.UK

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Connect events

CONNECT INDIAN OCEAN AND MIDDLE EAST LONDON, NOTTINGHAM AND SOLIHULL

ar tners at Selling Travel Connect Middle East and Indian Ocean events updated agents about new resor ts, upgraded hotels and improved inflight experiences, giving agents fresh reasons to sell. If you missed one of the dedicated events, here are all the updates. Air Arabia offers UK travellers an affordable route to more than 200 destinations across the Middle East, Indian Subcontinent, Africa and Asia via its hub in Sharjah, with double-daily flights from London Gatwick operated by a modern Airbus fleet. Air Mauritius has five non-stop services a week from London Gatwick. Partner connections from six regional UK airports via Paris provide access to double-daily flights. Economy and Business Class travellers enjoy complimentary drinks and wines, Mauritian-inspired menus and amenity kits. Children receive dedicated packs. Ajman combines almost a mile of soft, natural sand with cultural and wildlife attractions. Beyond photogenic beaches, visitors can discover an 18thcentury fort in the Heritage District and explore the mangroves and wetlands of Al Zorah Nature Reserve – the home to more than 60 bird species, including flocks of pink flamingos. Mauritian family business Attitude Hotels continues expanding, with adults-only Matemwe Attitude having opened in Zanzibar last November. Its all-inclusive dine-around concept allows guests to eat at other Attitude

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properties, subject to availability in the individual resorts. Trou Aux Biches Beachcomber Golf Resort and Spa reopened in October following a multi-million-pound refurbishment. Beachcomber’s newest destinations, Zanzibar and Tanzania, are also set to arrive in the final quarter of 2026. In Egypt, five-star Casa Cook El Gouna has introduced 29 swim-up suites, each offering direct access to a semi-private pool. The 42-squaremetre Twin and King suites cater for couples, friends and families while the hotel’s renovated pools are scheduled to reopen in November. Elsewhere, LUX* has expanded into Rwanda with LUX* Lake Kivu and SALT of Akagera in June. Its newest properties in Zanzibar and Tanzania are opening in the final quarter of 2026. The brand’s flagship hotel, LUX* Grand Baie in Mauritius, attracts celebrity athletes to use its facilities. Also in Mauritius, Sunlife’s newest hotel is the five-star The Bay Club at

Pictured: (Clockwise from top) Overwater villas in the Indian Ocean (Mike Swigunski); Agent collecting her prize; Speed networking provides attendees with all the latest updates; The stunning Hogarths Hotel was Solihull’s venue; Ras Al Khaimah (Sander Traa)

Anahita, where spacious villas and suites target families and groups. Guests at La Pirogue can use the restaurants, bars and facilities of neighbouring five-star Sugar Beach without charge. In Ras Al Khaimah, Wynn Al Marjan Island Resort will welcome its first guests in September 2027. The resort has also announced a partnership with immersive theatre pioneer Punchdrunk. The emirate lends itself to days with dramatically varied itineraries: breakfast on the beach, lunch in the mountains and sunsets in the desert.

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Connect events

CONNECT SHOWCASE GUILDFORD

rom five new flights from the UK to Costa Rica a week to dedicated travel advisor rates at luxury Thailand hotels, agents had plenty to get excited about at Selling Travel Connect in Guildford. Here are the key messages. Air Mauritius flies non-stop from London to Mauritius five times a week, services operated by Airbus A350-900 and A330-900Neo aircraft. Partner Air France connects six UK regional airports, via Paris. Both cabins offer complimentary drinks and wine, plus amenity kits and children’s packs. Air New Zealand has new direct Christchurch services to Singapore (from October 28) and Tokyo Narita (November 28), which will help agents build South Island itineraries. Its Skynest product arrives in late 2026 for Economy and Premium Economy passengers on Auckland–New York 787 services. The Bahamas is romoting its Peopleto-People Programme, connecting visitors with local hosts, and has a Two Fly Free offer from Nassau to the Out Islands. Barut Hotels operates family-owned luxury properties in Antalya, Side and Didim, Türkiye, with an ultrainclusive concept featuring several à la carte restaurants and extensive entertainment. British Airways has increased its Heathrow–Costa Rica service to five flights a week. The extra flights come as Costa Rica builds momentum as one of the UK’s most sought-after sustainable destinations.

Costa Rica has opened its first glass bridge in Monteverde, in the northwestern highlands. With green-season value and wildlife, it’s positioned as a leading sustainable destination. Essential Detail represents boutique and luxury Caribbean hotels across Barbados, Jamaica, Saint Lucia and St Vincent and the Grenadines, backed by agent training and sales support. Expedia TAAP is giving agents one point per pound spent on lodging bookings – 2,000 points can be redeemed for gift cards. New Mexico offers Native American culture, national parks and Santa Fe, the oldest and highest U.S. state capital. The state pairs well on itineraries with Arizona, Colorado and Texas. Royal Brunei Airlines runs direct London Heathrow flights through winter, with onward connections to Asia and Australia, generous baggage allowances and no alcohol service (but passengers may bring their own). Travelpack specialises in experienceled holidays, including sporting events,

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Pictured: (Clockwise from top) Playa Espadilla within Manuel Antonio National Park, Costa Rica (Dylan Gorman); Agents hear from a number of partners at Connect events; Prizes range from goodie bags to holidays; Travellers can swim with pigs in the Bahamas (Jakob Owens)

live music travel and small-group tours for passion-driven travellers. Designed for travellers seeking memorable, passion-driven escapes, its programme range combines expert knowledge, flexible travel options and carefully curated experiences. TreeHouse Villas (promoted by the MC Collection) is an adults-only resort of 32 villas overlooking Phang Nga Bay, Thailand. It offers an agent zone with sales resources, while sister site Staff Travel Club provides dedicated agent rates so agents can experience properties first-hand.

31 09/11/2026 12:49

How to sell

New York State gents should brush up on the impressive attractions of New York State and discover how to capitalise on its appeal beyond selling the Big Apple.

WHY SELL IT New York State is so much more than New York City (NYC). It has 11 distinct regions stretching from Long Island and the Hudson Valley to the Finger Lakes, Adirondacks and Niagara Falls, which will appeal to a wide variety of clients. In an era when travellers are looking for genuine, meaningful moments, the state has a particularly compelling proposition when you combine iconic attractions with truly authentic experiences. It offers the chance to discover a completely different side of America: from the power of Niagara Falls and the must-see landmarks of the Hudson Valley to charming small towns, welcoming vineyards and relaxed mountain communities. This four-season destination has state-wide attractions which pair neatly with the magnetism of NYC. Those hooked in by the metropolitan buzz can be easily encouraged to stay longer on higher-value itineraries just by extending their gaze beyond the skyscrapers.

WHO TO SELL TO NYC is clearly a honey-pot destination but both first timers and repeat visitors will be inspired to broaden their experience if you introduce the state’s wider appeal. Consider factoring the state into those booking a wider East Coast or multi-centre U.S. holiday too, and remember it works for both rail and self-drive itineraries. Families looking for outdoor adventures, interactive attractions and memorable road trips find the state ticks all the right boxes, and for the ultimate contrast, combine city sights with time in nature hiking and canoeing, cycling or skiing. For foodies, flag up opportunities to explore vineyards, breweries, cideries and excellent farm-to-table dining. Lake views, scenic wine trails and quaint towns ensure itineraries are full of photo opportunities, and history buffs will find plenty of music heritage and iconic American back stories.

WHAT TO SELL With extensive direct flights into NYC and regional state airports, accessibility isn’t a problem. Book three or four nights in NYC and spotlight the benefits of a longer one- or two-week stay.

DARREN MCGEE NYSDED

Add on to New York City itineraries to add value and diversity or book standalone trips across this allseason state to effortlessly boost your sales

Pictured: (top to bottom) Singer Castle on Dark Island in the St. Lawrence River; Niagara Falls State Park in New York; The Rosendale Trestle, a historic repurposed railroad bridge on the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail section of New York’s Empire State Trail

Point to spectacular natural attractions found in the Adirondacks, Finger Lakes, Thousand Islands, Niagara Falls and on Long Island’s award-winning beaches. Top state parks include Watkins Glen, Letchworth and Bear Mountain. Encourage clients to check out the small-town charm of Central New York or the National Comedy Center in Chautauqua-Allegheny. Award-winning food and beverage experiences are prevalent in the Finger Lakes, Hudson Valley and Long Island, while museums and cultural attractions include the Buffalo AKG Art Museum, Corning Museum of Glass, National Comedy Center, Storm King Art Center and Bethel Woods Center for the Arts. Heritage attractions include the Harriet Tubman National Historical Park, Women’s Rights National Historical Park and sites linked to America’s abolition and civil rights movements.

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HOW TO SELL

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NEWYORKSTATEEXPERT.COM / ILOVENY.COM

The simple message is: go further. Yes, NYC’s energy and excitement is only enhanced by combining with authentic small-town America, mountains, lakes and vineyards for a slower pace, open spaces and outdoor adventure. Adding Partner content

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WHEN TO SELL

DARREN MCGEE-NYSDED

The state’s diversity has another benefit: year-round appeal. In spring there are fewer crowds and excellent weather and visits are all about the beautiful

gardens and wildflower blooms, maple sugaring season and farm-to-table culinary experiences. In summer, think hiking, kayaking and boating across the Adirondacks, Finger Lakes and Thousand Islands; or beach, watersports and coastal experiences on Long Island. This is when most outdoor concerts, festivals and events run. Travel in autumn and visitors find themselves in one of North America’s leading fall foliage destinations with stunning displays across the Adirondacks, Catskills, Hudson Valley and Finger Lakes. They can join in harvest festivals, apple picking, cider tasting, seasonal culinary events, scenic rail and cruise journeys. In winter, festive experiences and

DARREN MCGEE-NYSDED

two or three regions makes the city break richer and more rewarding. The choice and affordability of accommodation, dining and touring is impressive across the state, and self-drive adds the freedom to explore multiple scenic areas. Rail itineraries also work as Amtrak connections link the Hudson Valley, Albany, Syracuse, Buffalo, Rochester, Niagara Falls and the Adirondacks. The Long Island Rail Road and Metro North (for HV) are ideal for getting out of the city.

DARREN MCGEE NYSDED

How to sell / New York State

“In spring there are fewer crowds and excellent weather and visits are all about maple sugaring season and farm-to-table culinary experiences” wintersports come into their own. The state has more ski areas than any other U.S. state so snowy escapes and cosy mountain retreats pair with seasonal events and magical NYC’s festivities.

WHAT’S NEW Look out for new itineraries. Those using Amtrak routes support the growing demand for rail holidays while the state’s growing gastronomic reputation chimes well with market interest in culinary tourism. Increased promotion of self-drive and multi-region itineraries is encouraging longer stays, now touching all 11 regions. And in 2027 the state will mark the 200th anniversary of the abolition of slavery in New York with new opportunities to highlight abolition and civil rights heritage sites. Book it: North America Travel Services’ 14-night New York Skyline and Scenery holiday is priced from £3,749pp. northamericatravelservice.com

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Pictured: (clockwise from top) White-water rafting on the Black River in the Thousand Islands region; The Adirondack Balloon Festival is held annually in Glens Falls and Queensbury; Montauk Point Lighthouse, Long Island; Rhinebeck in the Hudson Vallery region; View of Lake Placid from Little Whiteface

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Feature / Rail Travel

S K I

O R

not to SKI Ski resorts around the world are showing off a new side once the snow melts, tapping into coolcation and multigenerational travel trends to extend their appeal year-round, says Bev Fearis

Pictured: (above) Many ski resorts have thrilling biking trails once the snow melts (Raphael Surmont)

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Mountain holidays

t’s a walk I’ve done many times before but this time it’s different. Usually, I’m trudging up the path in my snow boots, taking care not to slip on the icy patches, merino beanie pulled tightly over my ears. This time I’m striding up confidently in shorts and walking sandals, cap shading my eyes from the morning sun and a rucksack carrying a picnic and a litre of water. Most importantly, this time I’m not alone. My ski-mad husband and teenage son have always refused to join me on my 5km mini-pilgrimage from Plan Peisey to the Vernettes Chapel, not wanting to miss a moment of skiing time. But this time, we’ve come back to our favourite ski resort in the summer and the call of the slopes has melted away. With the snow now confined to the tips of the distant peaks, we’ve come together for a family hiking adventure, hoping to spot marmots, chamois or ibex as we take in the fresh mountain air. Tomorrow morning’s activity is downhill biking, so they’ll get their Alpine adrenaline kick, and then we’re en famille again for whitewater rafting – and for the après, of course!

“At the same time, increasingly hot summer temperatures across parts of Europe are encouraging holidaymakers to seek cooler alpine destinations for walking, cycling and outdoor adventures.” Bridges notes that when Europe was hit by a heatwave at the start of this summer, bookings to Club Med’s summer mountain resorts rose by 17% in four weeks. “This aligns with the growing ‘coolcation’ trend, as travellers swap traditional beach holidays for higheraltitude destinations with milder temperatures,” she adds. Mountain resorts can also offer excellent value outside peak winter weeks, with lower accommodation prices and fewer crowds, making them attractive alternatives to busy Mediterranean beach destinations. Access by car and rail add to the appeal. Investment in lifts, mountain infrastructure and accommodation is helping to extend the seasons,

“Increasing temperatures across Europe are encouraging holidaymakers to seek cooler alpine destinations”

Snow or shine “Mountain destinations are no longer defined solely by the ski season,” says Jemma Bridges, Club Med’s Head of Trade Sales for UK, Ireland and the Nordics. “Travellers are increasingly seeking active, nature-based holidays that combine adventure, wellness and fresh air throughout the year, rather than travelling for one specific activity.” Growing demand for year-round mountain holidays is being driven by a number of factors. “Travellers are placing greater value on active holidays that promote physical wellbeing, time in nature and authentic local experiences,” says Bridges.

Pictured: (clockwise from top) A family boards pedalos at Club Med, Tignes; The Kingdom of the Children festival in the town of Morzine, France

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creating more sustainable local economies, and supporting jobs, businesses and communities outside the peak ski period. “It makes commercial sense to use resort infrastructure year-round,” says Laura Hazel, Marketing Director, Ski Beat. “The same lifts that whisk skiers up the mountains in winter can transport hikers and bikers to interconnected marked trails in the warmer months.”

Action packed Demand is also being fuelled by the growth of multi-generational travel, with mountain destinations offering activities for all ages in one location. “Historically, summer mountain holidays appealed to an older market, for gentle ‘lakes and mountains’ strolls and amazing views, but the age profile has changed dramatically,” says Hazel. “Resorts have responded to trends and market demand, and invested in e-bike and mountain bike trails, created hiking and walking routes, and built weatherproof indoor water parks, multisports centres and wellness facilities to appeal to a much wider market, from serious sports enthusiasts to family groups.” The breadth of activities is demonstrated by the Inghams Walking programme. Alongside hiking and mountain biking, with lift-assisted access, customers can enjoy Alpine coasters, zip lines and family-friendly adventure parks, lake swimming, paddleboarding and other water sports, wellness retreats,

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Feature

“Today's guests are looking for experiences, local food, and activities rather than simply ski holidays” thermal spas and forest bathing experiences. The programme also features local food festivals, wine tasting and mountain gastronomy and cultural events, plus scenic rail journeys and panoramic mountain lift rides. Thomas Ryves, Inghams Head of Brand and Communications, suggests agents should encourage repeat visits by showcasing how the same mountain destination can offer completely different experiences in summer and winter. Even for winter bookings, he advises agents to focus on the wide range of activities available, rather than positioning mountain holidays solely around skiing. “Highlight the appeal for non-skiers, including walking, sightseeing, wellness, food and cultural experiences,” he suggests. Simon Wiget, Director, Verbier Tourism, says tourist boards across the Alps have recognised that guests are looking for local

food, activities and experiences rather than simply ski holidays. “Families, wellness seekers, food lovers, and active adventurers can all find reasons to visit, regardless of whether snow is on the ground,” he explains. Meanwhile, Hazel says for the growing number of clients looking for physical and mental wellness “mountain holidays offer more than a sunbed and pool, where a suntan comes naturally, summer or winter, from simply spending time in the great outdoors”. Andy Sturt, Managing Director and owner of VIP SKI, believes that winter holidays remain the cornerstone of Alpine travel. But he adds: “Premium accommodation, luxury spas and gourmet dining have also become increasingly important, allowing resorts to compete for higherspending visitors seeking more than simply access to the slopes.”

Peak performers

Pictured: (clockwise from top) Inﬁnity pool and spa area at the Hôtel Montpelier in Verbier, Switzerland; White water rafting in Morzine, situated at the heart of the Portes du Soleil ski area; The Club Med Pragelato Vialattea resort

Some resorts are leading the way when it comes to year-round appeal. Verbier in Switzerland boasts the biking mecca of La Tzoumaz, with a dedicated area extending over 83 km. To entice summer stays, overnight visitors are given a Verbier Infinite Playground (VIP) Pass with discounts and privileged access, including some free lifts. Val d’Isere’s ‘Val Pass’, meanwhile, unlocks over 25 activities, including archery, yoga, tennis, lift access and sports parks to appeal strongly to the summer,

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family holiday market. Downhill scootering, an activity that’s growing in popularity, is now part of the mix in Megève’s Domaine du Jaillet, costing £56pp including scooter rental. In the Portes du Soleil ski area, the extensive lift network switches to serving 600km of bike trails once the snow melts. Outside ski season, Tirol transforms into one of the Alps’ most diverse adventure destinations. New activities include the new Kaiserblüte star-shaped hiking tour in the Wilder Kaiser, interactive digital storytelling trails in the Zillertal, family-friendly cycling on the new Stubai Cycle Route and mountain biking on the new Kirchberg Trail.

BOOK IT Seven-nights half-board at the Alpenhotel Kramerwirt, Austria, is priced from £1,449pp. Includes flights and transfers.Departs June 5, 2027.inghams.co.uk

BEV FEARIS Bev usually skis with family and a group of friends and reckons catered chalets are the way to go – no awkward splitting of the bill in pricey restaurants!

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48 hours in...

JOHANNESBURG With vibrant creative districts, world-class dining and heritage hotels, South Africa’s most populous city takes you on journey from past to present, says Sally Kirby

DAY ONE

Understanding the past

Morning: Stay in the pedestrianised Art Deco Rosebank district, sleeping in urban design heritage hotels and safely exploring artisanal cafés, craft markets and neighbourhood art galleries. Orientate yourself by hopping on the City Sightseeing Bus. Stop at the Nelson Mandela Foundation, a museum which has preserved his post-presidential office, as it was left on his last day in 2010. Constitutional Hill, a living museum, tells the story of South Africa’s long journey to democracy: visit the courtroom where constitutional cases are heard. Johannesburg is a ‘Gold Rush’ city, founded in 1886. Explore the Mining District Walk where an informative outdoor museum portrays the city’s mining history and legacy. Afternoon: Cross over the CBD’s grid streets to the Rand Club for lunch. This members’ club was founded in 1887 by the Randlords, Jo’burg’s mining magnates. Queen Elizabeth II, then a Princess, broke the gentleman-only tradition by celebrating her 21st birthday there. Continue on to the Apartheid Museum. Allow one and a half hours for

a short visit, or three hours for a longer visit. This powerful and moving museum offers an immersive, educational overview of Johannesburg’s history. Take a walk through the garden afterwards – sit, reflect, and then, as a sign spells out, “walk free”. Evening: Johannesburg locals love a jawl (party) and expressing themselves through their dress and live music. Have dinner and enjoy the trendy city crowd warm-up at Proud Mary in the Hyde Hotel. The city is establishing itself as Africa’s entertainment capital, and throughout the year you can catch a concert or show at Montecasino or the Lyric Theatre. DAY TWO

Creative in the present

Morning: Start your day at Victoria Yards, an arts and culture precinct. This collection of open artists’ studios and artisan workshops is on the site of a former steam laundry. You can wander freely, or take a tour with an on-site guide. Resident artist James Delaney is worth a visit. On the first Sunday of every month, the space opens into a city centre market with crafts, food stalls and live music. Afternoon: For streetside cafés and

Pictured: (clockwise from above) The Four Seasons Westcliff Flames Bar; The bright interior of the Pot Luck Club; Experience the moving Apartheid Museum; Johannesburg’s skyline

high street shopping in a vibrant suburb, head to Fourth Avenue in Parkhurst for lunch; Modena is popular for delicious Italian cuisine and warm staff. This pretty suburb is predominantly residential, but two main avenues are lined with shops, bars, cafés, and neighbourhood restaurants spilling onto the pavements. Afterwards, head to the nearby Goodman Gallery, one of the city’s most respected contemporary art galleries. Evening: Johannesburg is made up of ridges that run east to west and in parts is very hilly. Join locals gathering on rooftops for after-work sundowners: the Four Seasons Westcliff Flames Bar has one of the best city skyline views. Finish your stay with a cosy dinner, prepared by an award-winning chef, at the Pot Luck Club in Melrose. An intimate and social restaurant with seating at the bar and small plates, it is great for solo travellers, couples and small groups.

Book it A three-night package at The Hyde on a Bed and Breakfast basis is priced from £1,326pp, based on double occupancy, for departures February 1, 2027. african-pride.co.uk

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Focus on

WELL INTO THAILAND Tap into Thailand’s holistic approach to wellness and weave feel-good experiences into almost any itinerary, says April Waterston

’ve never taken a bath surrounded by tropical forest, but there’s a first time for everything. I surrender to the moment, twirling floating lotus petals around my fingertips, sinking my shoulders beneath the water and closing my eyes as the cacophony of jungle wildlife fills the air. I’m at The Sarojin in Khao Lak, Thailand, experiencing its Pathways Spa – a central part of the resort’s holistic approach to wellness. I’m taking one for the team by trialling the resort’s signature 120-minute Lotus Sleep package. It begins with a warm, lotus milk-infused bath, followed by a nourishing lotus body scrub, before culminating in a 60-minute full-body aromatherapy massage. A calming cup of lotus flower tea rounds off the experience, and I leave feeling as though I am floating. It’s a hard job, but someone’s got to do it.

calm to the core Starting my trip in bustling Bangkok, a visit to the Temple of the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho) brings Thailand’s wellness heritage to life. Often regarded as the birthplace of traditional Thai massage, Wat Pho’s temple grounds are adorned with inscriptions detailing ancient healing and massage techniques. It’s also

home to a 46-metre-long golden Reclining Buddha, whose expression of utter serenity is a level of relaxation I can only aspire to. The temple is fascinating, but hot and busy, so I welcome the chance to retreat to another kind of sanctuary at The Capella Bangkok, where wellness is central to the guest experience. Its Auriga Wellness spa combines traditional wisdom with contemporary practices, while guests can also join yoga and sound bath sessions or guided mindfulness with a monk. During a mindfulness session, I’m instructed to ‘imagine each breath you take is your last’. It’s not the most relaxing thought, but I’m surprised by the perspective it brings. I leave with a heightened sense of mental clarity – a rarity in the daily grind.

famed for wellness Wellness has long been woven into the fabric of Thai culture, rooted in centuries-old healing traditions, Buddhist philosophy and a holistic approach to mind, body and spirit.

April Waterston From thai massage to Icelandic hot springs and Saint Lucian volcanic mud masks, April enjoys embracing what wellness means in different countries.

“Wellness has long been woven into the fabric of Thai culture”

Pictured: (clockwise from top) A yoga session at The Sarojin; April rafting in Khao Lak; The steam room at Capella Bangkok; A guest enjoys the Lotus Sleep Package at The Sarojin

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“For travellers seeking dedicated wellness holidays, Thailand offers an unbeatable choice of experiences across a wide range of budgets,” enthuses Worapa Angkhasirisap, Director, Tourism Authority of Thailand, London Ofﬁce. “We believe wellbeing is about more than physical health; it’s also mental, emotional and spiritual. Sometimes the greatest sense of renewal comes not from a treatment, but from reconnecting with nature, learning something new, experiencing another culture or simply escaping the pressures of everyday life.” This philosophy is at the heart of the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s Healing is the New Luxury campaign. The authority is encouraging travellers to recognise that the real luxury of travel is how it makes them feel. “For travel agents, this means wellness can be a compelling selling point for almost any Thailand holiday, not just for clients seeking a spa break,” adds Angkhasirisap. Northern Thailand is particularly rewarding, with destinations such

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Focus on / Wellness in Thailand

as Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai and Nan offering opportunities to explore traditional Lanna healing practices, meditation, nature-based experiences and slower-paced rural life.

beyond the spa Forest bathing, mindful walks, hot springs, waterfall swims, cycling through countryside communities and learning traditional Thai cooking are all wonderful ways to experience a different side of Thailand. “These activities offer opportunities to disconnect from everyday pressures, engage the senses and develop a deeper connection with local people

and culture,” says Angkhasirisap. For clients who prefer something more active, wellness might mean learning to surf in Khao Lak, kayaking through the jungle landscapes of Khao Sok National Park, or joining a Muay Thai boxing camp. Guests at The Sarojin can also borrow complimentary mountain bikes to explore the local area, including a nearby mangrove where they can help support the ecosystem by planting a sapling. Destinations such as Kanchanaburi, Khanom and Phang Nga are particularly interesting for agents looking to introduce clients to quieter locations and experiences beyond the

“Agents should ask clients not just where they want to go but how they want to feel when they return home” familiar tourist trail. Angkhasirisap says: “for travel agents, the opportunity is to move beyond selling wellness as a standalone holiday category and start incorporating elements of wellbeing into more traditional itineraries. “Ask clients not just where they want to go but how they want to feel when they return home. That simple shift in conversation can open the door to more personalised itineraries, longer stays and opportunities to introduce lesser-known destinations. Ultimately, our campaign is about recognising that the most valuable souvenir from your holiday is the positive impact it has on your wellbeing.”

Book it In September 2027 rates at The Sarojin start from £146 per night on a B&B basis. The Capella Bangkok is approx. £544 per night. Return ﬂights from LHR start from £740pp with EVA Air. SELLINGTRAVEL.CO.UK

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Pictured: (From left) A traditional Thai longtail boat (Kir Shu); Treatment room at the Capella; The New Moon massage experience at the Capella

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PERFECT TIMING FOR TÜRKİYE. NONSTOP FROM ACROSS THE UK.

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