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Cunard Introduces Harper’s Bazaar Wellness at Sea Programmes Across Its Fleet
Cunard is thrilled to announce the fleet-wide roll out of its holistic Harper’s Bazaar Wellness at Sea programmes, created in collaboration with the iconic lifestyle magazine. Launching this January, guests on the flagship Queen Mary 2, Queen Elizabeth, and Queen Victoria will have the opportunity to indulge in these exclusive wellness experiences, designed to leave travellers feeling revitalised and recharged as they journey to extraordinary destinations. Exclusive Three-Day Wellness Programmes Each three-day programme—Relax, Recover, or Energise—is meticulously crafted to meet individual wellness goals. Priced at USD 629 per guest, the packages include a tailored selection of spa treatments, premium ELEMIS products, and unique, nutritionally balanced dining options. These transformative wellness journeys can be booked on board with the ship’s Spa Concierge. Introducing the Wellness at Sea Event Voyage In addition to these programmes, Cunard is excited to announce a brand new Wellness at Sea Event Voyage for 2026. Set for 5-12 July 2026, this unique 7-night Norwegian Fjords voyage on board Queen Anne will offer an inspiring variety of wellness-themed experiences. From invigorating classes and tailored spa treatments to enlightening talks from expert speakers, this voyage is set to redefine wellbeing at sea. Katie McAlister, President of Cunard, emphasised the significance of the new initiatives: “Wellness is at the heart of what we offer at Cunard, and the Harper’s Bazaar Wellness at Sea programmes are a natural addition across our entire fleet. Ocean-inspired wellness is a unique part of the Cunard experience, offering guests the chance to relax, recharge, and feel renewed while sailing to extraordinary destinations. Whether they’re looking to unwind, recover, or boost their energy, these programmes will help them arrive feeling refreshed and inspired.” New Plant-Based Menus Cunard is also rolling out a range of new plant-based menus across its fleet, developed in collaboration with chef Paul Gayler MBE, a pioneer in vegetarian and vegan cuisine. These menus showcase the finest plant-based cuisine at sea, drawing inspiration from destinations where plant-based eating is a way of life—such as the Middle East—and use authentic cooking methods to reimagine classic dishes. More than 25 vegan dishes will be available in the Britannia restaurants on Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria, Queen Elizabeth, and the highly anticipated Queen Anne. Created by Cunard’s team of chefs, these dishes feature fresh, plant-based ingredients, alongside high-quality pulses, spices, and vegan pastry creations. Ready to embark on a journey of wellness and discovery with Cunard? Whether you’re looking to unwind, recover, or boost your energy, these new programmes and plant-based dining options promise a voyage like no other. Let’s chat more about how you can experience the ultimate in relaxation and rejuvenation at sea.
Cunard and Harper’s Bazaar Create Queen Anne’s Exclusive Wellness Programme
Cunard has partnered with one of the world’s most prominent fashion and beauty magazines to create a holistic wellness programme exclusively for Queen Anne guests. The luxury cruise line is collaborating with Harper’s Bazaar UK, the world’s longest-established luxury fashion, beauty, and lifestyle publication, to design three luxurious spa packages for guests sailing on the new 3,000-guest Queen Anne, which is due to set sail on its maiden voyage on 3 May. Each Harper’s Bazaar Wellness at Sea package includes a three-day voyage focused on cleansing, energising, or resting, ensuring that guests feel completely revitalised at their destination. The three-day programmes, which cost an extra US$629, will include a selection of spa treatments, ELEMIS products, and innovative and nutritionally balanced food options from Queen Anne’s The Pavillion Wellness Café. The Harper’s Bazaar Detox Journey, which includes a cryo-body detox and body sculpting treatment, will revive and restore clean living habits; the Harper’s Bazaar Energise Journey will empower guests with a mix of mindful eating, massage, and movement, including a bamboo massage; and the Harper’s Bazaar Relax Journey, which includes a collection of soothing treatments, such as a therapeutic salt stone massage, will reset the nervous system. As part of each package, guests receive a selection of ELEMIS products to complement the programmes. The partnership marks the exciting next chapter in Cunard’s award-winning health and enrichment offering. Queen Anne is set to include the widest variety of fitness, beauty, thermal, and spa facilities ever seen on a Cunard ship. Wellness on Queen Anne – Photo: Cunard Queen Anne’s reimagined Mareel Wellness & Beauty offering ushers in a new era of wellness at sea. The idea seeks to provide engaging health experiences that leave guests feeling radiant from the inside out, much like its namesake. This luminous luminescence illuminates the sea from the inside. One of Queen Anne’s most notable health places is The Pavillion, an ideal open-air refuge on the upper deck with a specially built glass dome canopy that retracts in warmer climates. Inspired by gorgeous glasshouses, it is the perfect place to get lost in a book or dip in the pool during the day and meet new friends in the evening. The multi-purpose space, designed by David Collins Studio (of Harrods and Claridge’s fame), will include the top deck Wellness Studio – an ideal retreat for fitness enthusiasts, open from sunrise to sunset – as well as The Pavillion Wellness Café, an alternative dining experience featuring a colourful mix of seasonal, mouthwatering, and nutritious dishes. Acclaimed architect Martin Francis, who supported engineering the iconic Louvre Pyramid in Paris, oversaw a redesign of the glass dome, which will now have a sophisticated arching steel frame to optimise height and light in the area as it stretches up and down to form the new Wellness Studio. The spa’s tranquil sanctuary also offers a selection of individually tailored experiences, such as one of the first cryo-body treatments at sea or the Himalayan salt sauna and cold room to rejuvenate the mind, body, and spirit. Queen Anne’s Wellness Café – Photo: Cunard The Pavillion Wellness Café will serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner, emphasising the health benefits of plant-based dishes as well as responsibly produced meat, dairy, and seafood. Queen Anne will also have the largest assortment of low and no-alcohol drinks on a Cunard ship, with The Pavillion Wellness Café serving up a variety of feel-good smoothies, shots, and cold-pressed juices. Some of the anti-inflammatory, antioxidant-rich alternatives include a tropical Nutriquench of watermelon, pineapple, and grapefruit, as well as a Pick-Me-Up Elixir of fresh turmeric, ginger root, black peppercorns, fennel seeds, honey, and lemon juice. There will also be low-alcohol drinks available, such as a Kombucha Bellini and a Chinotto Spritz. Cunard President Katie McAlister said, “Wellness is such an integral part of luxury ocean travel in the modern era, and we’re excited to collaborate with Harper’s Bazaar UK to deliver an elevated wellbeing offering for Queen Anne.” This partnership will enable us to showcase the ultimate escapes for wellbeing as we offer travellers truly luxurious treatments, specialist masterclasses, and tailor-made health guides as part of this holistic wellness programme. Wellness will be a fundamental part of the Queen Anne experience, where guests can immerse themselves in the best of luxury travel while nurturing their mind, body, and spirit, and we hope their revitalisation will be a memorable part of their voyage with us.” Sharon Ridgeway-Davies, Luxury Portfolio Director at Hearst UK, said, “As the world’s longest-established fashion magazine, Harper’s Bazaar has been synonymous with luxury for over 150 years. We proudly partner with Cunard to bring guests a carefully curated Harper’s Bazaar Wellness at Sea proposition aboard Queen Anne. Each elevated wellness programme has been carefully curated to boost their skin, body and mind, adding to the ultimate escape to wellbeing.” The post Cunard and Harper’s Bazaar Create Queen Anne’s Exclusive Wellness Programme first appeared on Stray Nomad Travel News.
Harper Banjarmasin opens doors to guests
Nestled in the heart of Banjarmasin, South Kalimantan, Harper Banjarmasin is set to open its doors to both business and leisure travelers on 22 June 2023. With its prime location at Jl. S. Parman no. 175, the hotel offers easy access to the vibrant city, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a comfortable and convenient stay. Superb accommodation options Harper Banjarmasin boasts 90 well-appointed rooms across four different types: Superior, Deluxe, Junior Suite, and Suite. Whether you are a solo traveler or visiting with your family, there is a room perfectly suited to your needs. Each room is thoughtfully designed to provide the utmost comfort and relaxation. Inside, you will find a range of convenient amenities, including coffee and tea-making facilities, a hairdryer, LED TV, Wi-Fi, a writing desk, non-smoking rooms, and a safe deposit box. These thoughtful touches ensure that your stay at Harper Banjarmasin is nothing short of exceptional. Modern facilities for a pleasurable stay Harper Banjarmasin features a range of modern facilities designed to enhance your stay. The hotel spans seven floors, offering breathtaking views of the cityscape. Whether you are a fitness enthusiast or in need of some pampering, the hotel has you covered. Stay active at the gym, or unwind and rejuvenate at the spa, where skilled therapists provide a variety of soothing treatments. Rustik Bistro and Bar is the perfect spot to indulge in delectable cuisine and refreshing beverages. Experience a culinary journey with an array of international and local dishes, prepared with the finest ingredients. Whether you are craving a hearty meal or a light snack, Rustik Bistro and Bar caters to every palate. Strategic location Harper Banjarmasin's strategic location allows guests to explore the city's vibrant attractions easily. Immerse yourself in the rich culture and heritage of Banjarmasin by visiting nearby landmarks such as the iconic Sabilal Muhtadin Mosque, the Banua Traffic Education Park, the Menara Pandang Siring, the Bekantan Statue, and the Martapura Precious Stone Market. These attractions offer a glimpse into the local history, traditions, and natural beauty of the region, ensuring an enriching experience for every guest. Perfect for business functions For business travelers, Harper Banjarmasin is an excellent choice for hosting various corporate events. With four versatile meeting rooms, the hotel is suitable for meetings, celebrations, and social events. Ramania - With a size of 645 square feet (60 sqm), it provides ample space to accommodate various event setups. The round table setup can comfortably accommodate up to 20 participants, while the U-shape setup is perfect for collaborative discussions. For larger gatherings, the theater-style setup can accommodate up to 40 attendees, while the classroom-style setup can accommodate up to 30 participants. Kasturi and Rambai - With an expansive size of 828 square feet (77 square meters), it provides a spacious and comfortable environment for various types of events. The round table setup can accommodate up to 20 participants, making it ideal for intimate discussions or presentations. The U-shape setup offers a conducive space for collaborative meetings. For larger gatherings, the theater-style setup can accommodate up to 45 attendees, while the classroom-style setup can accommodate up to 30 participants. Kuini - Spanning an impressive 3,719 square feet (346 square meters), this spacious venue is perfect for hosting a wide range of events. The round table setup can comfortably accommodate up to 200 participants, while the U-shape setup provides an ideal environment for collaborative discussions. For larger-scale events, the theater-style setup can accommodate up to 450 attendees, and the classroom-style setup can accommodate up to 280 participants. State-of-the-art facilities, including modern audiovisual equipment and a dedicated team of professionals, ensure that your event runs smoothly and successfully. The hotel's central location also allows for easy accessibility, further adding to its appeal as a business destination in Banjarmasin. A proud addition to Archipelago International Harper Banjarmasin marks the fifth property by Archipelago International in South Kalimantan, joining the esteemed ASTON Banua Banjarmasin Hotel & Convention Center, ASTON Tanjung City Hotel, favehotel Ahmad Yani, and favehotel Banjarbaru. This expansion signifies the company's commitment to providing exceptional hospitality experiences throughout the region. Harper Banjarmasin also holds the distinction of being the tenth property under the Harper brand, a testament to the brand's success and popularity among travelers. "Harper Banjarmasin is a significant addition to our portfolio in South Kalimantan and a testament to our commitment to providing exceptional hospitality experiences. We are excited to welcome guests to this beautiful property and create memorable moments for both business and leisure travelers. With its prime location, modern facilities, and dedicated team, Harper Banjarmasin is poised to exceed expectations and contribute to the growth and success of the Harper brand," says John Flood, President and CEO, Archipelago International. Harper Banjarmasin is set to become a premier destination for both business and leisure travelers in Banjarmasin. With its comfortable rooms, modern facilities, convenient location, and proximity to popular attractions, the hotel offers a memorable and enjoyable stay for every guest. Whether you are visiting for business or leisure, Harper Banjarmasin promises an exceptional experience that combines comfort, convenience, and warm hospitality.
Archipelago International unveils Harper Hotel Medan
Indonesia’s hotel management group, Archipelago International, has officially opened its third hotel in Medan, this time under the Harper brand. Carrying out its mission to provide more favourable sanctuaries for all travellers in the city, Harper Wahid Hasyim Medan is designed with guests' comfort in mind, combining a strategic location with functionality, homely ambiance, and heartfelt service. "Immense potential" Located in the centre of Medan’s culinary and entertainment hub, Harper Wahid Hasyim Medan is just 15 minutes’ drive from various tourism spots such as Durian Ucok, Upside Down World Medan, Rahmat International Wildlife Museum & Gallery and various museums. “As the largest settlement outside of Java with its multiculturalism, Medan has immense potential. The recent development in infrastructure – within the airport, on roads, and various transportation alternatives – further positions Medan as an attractive and convenient travel destination for tourists and that is why Harper Wahid Hasyim Medan was born,” said John Flood, president and CEO of Archipelago International. Harper Wahid Hasyim Medan will be the second hotel under the Harper brand to open in Sumatra. The hotel provides 89 cosy rooms.
Travelport Digital’s Fusion to Give Even More Airlines a Sharper Mobile Edge
Travelport (NYSE:TVPT), a leading Travel Commerce Platform today announce the launch of a new mobile product for airlines, Travelport Fusion, in response to the growing need for all airlines to meet the expectations of today’s mobile-first customer. Recent figures from App Annie reveal that the majority of mobile travel bookings globally, between 2014 and 2016 were via apps*. This highlights the need for travel providers such as airlines to adopt a sophisticated and scalable mobile service that not only meets basic booking requirements, but also engages and supports travellers before, during and post-trip.In response to increased demand for advanced mobile services at all stages of travel, Travelport Digital has launched Fusion - a robust and rich mobile app solution for airlines of all sizes, that can work across all host systems.It uniquely combines Travelport Digital’s extensive airline experience, unparalleled mobile travel expertise, its focus on engaging the end-traveller and attention to high-end design. The new product gives airlines end-to-end trip engagement via mobile, allowing them to develop more valuable and lasting relationships with their customers. Travelport Fusion can be deployed in weeks and can be configured to reflect the airline brand by exploiting its market-leading design and UX capabilities. This allows airlines to focus on their distinctive service while reducing the time to market and cost of a sophisticated mobile offering.For airlines who need highly customized mobile solutions adapted to their specific digital roadmap, Travelport Digital will continue to offer its unique and proven blend of market leading design, agile delivery and mobile customer engagement solutions.The first release of Travelport Fusion will include a rich set of features such as mobile search, booking, check-in, boarding, passport scanning, day of travel assistance, itinerary management and real-time flight alerts. Airlines will benefit from further product releases and the ability to incorporate unique features to differentiate their digital offering.Commenting on the launch of Travelport Fusion, Fergal Kelly, CCO of Travelport Digital in Dublin stated “Mobile continues to fundamentally change the travel industry, serving travellers who are increasingly more connected. Customer engagement via mobile is now a critical success factor for airlines of all sizes and we believe that the airline industry is not yet well-served in this area. The important fusion of user-focused design, travel industry experience and mobile technology expertise is often misunderstood. Airlines who underestimate these three key elements in mobile travel risk missing out on significant revenue from channel shift, new customer acquisition opportunities as well as the resulting improved customer loyalty.”Fergal continued, “While we will continue to offer bespoke, high-end solutions as we have always done, Fusion is ideal for a wider market of airlines who now wish to move quickly on mobile. We will work with them as a strategic partner with the experience, vision, passion and commitment to realize the true value of mobile and we are excited to be leading the charge in this regard.”For more information on Travelport Fusion, airlines can join an upcoming webinar on July 5th and July 6th. Register HERE: http://hubs.ly/H07Qync0. For more information on Travelport Fusion, airlines can join an upcoming webinar on July 5th and July 6th. Register HERE: http://hubs.ly/H07Qync0.
“Engagement is the heartbeat of corporate meetings”: Simone Seiler
The MICE industry continues to innovate in response to evolving expectations around budgets, digital efficiencies, and time-pressured attendees, according to the inaugural Global Trends Report* delivered by FCM Meetings & Events. The report, in partnership with Cvent and powered by fellow Flight Centre Travel Group business FCM Consulting, showed that corporate events had grown year-on-year globally since 2022. “Professional services leads the charge when hosting events at 50 per cent, with more in-house planners than any other sector, likely because of event volume, audience, and cost management considerations,” said Simone Seiler, Global General Manager, FCM Meetings & Events. Driving connections that lead to innovation “We found that 80 per cent of respondents say that engagement is the heartbeat of their corporate meetings, driving connections that lead to innovation – it's the secret ingredient that transforms gatherings into extraordinary experiences. “Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA) are scaling up to add people, frequency, and dollars, and suggesting live events are being used strategically to build brands, connect with stakeholders, and strengthen internal culture. Online sourcing grows “Across EMEA, 35 per cent of planners are putting their budget into bigger events, with 28 per cent expecting to spend more on events in 2025.” “Event planners today are embracing technology to boost efficiency and flexibility. As time and budget limitations often hinder traditional site visits, there's a notable rise in the use of online sourcing,” said Will Kataria, Senior Director, Country Head, Cvent Singapore. “In media, tech, travel, and real estate, investing in engagement through corporate events fuels creativity and expands networks. These industries use gatherings to foster collaboration and innovation, which are crucial for growth,” Seiler continued. Focus on people engagement “Notably, 56 per cent of respondents say meetings are primarily for people engagement, highlighting the role of connectivity in driving success. “In industries where customer experience is everything and competition is fierce, the emphasis on human connection is dialled up. The real estate, travel, and financial industries are leading in this space, with 60 per cent or more of meetings and events focusing on engagement.” The results of the survey showed that almost 40 per cent of respondents did not have a clear view of their meetings and events budget for this year. Think different, think creative “Big, small, or the unknown, one thing's clear: when the budget's blurry, planners need to get even sharper,” Seiler said. “That means thinking creatively, leaning on strong supplier relationships, and prioritising the stuff that actually moves the needle, like experiences, impact, and memories, over glitz and gimmicks. “But while many of the respondents are still in the dark about this year's budget, for those who do have a read on it, it's showing cautious optimism. “43 per cent say they're upping their investment by 10 per cent or more, and 39 per cent plan to keep things steady. Not a massive change, nonetheless, enough to signal intent.” The report found that globally, around 47 per cent of companies invested in medium-to-large-scale events with between 50 to 150+ attendees, with more people usually equalling a greater spend. APAC takes the lead “Although the worldwide picture isn't uniform, Asia-Pacific (APAC) took the lead in 2024, with 47 per cent of planners putting their budget into bigger events,” said Frits de Kok, EMEA General Manager, FCM Meetings & Events. “The Americas weren't far behind at 42 per cent, while Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) trailed at 35 per cent. “APAC is scaling up with intention. Adding people, frequency, and dollars, suggesting live events are being used strategically to build brands, connect with stakeholders, and strengthen internal culture. We will continue to watch the Americas region with interest, given the current tariff climate, but it’s encouraging to see that domestic travel for business has increased slightly over the last two months. “For planners elsewhere, it's a reminder that the bar is rising. The numbers tell us there's still plenty of variety in approach, and smaller events aren't going anywhere. But they'll need to work harder to deliver the same level of impact.” With more focus on ‘bleisure’ than ever, Mr de Kok said incentive travel was a real drawcard for employees looking for a new challenge. “Incentive experiences and travel programs boost engagement, with 68 per cent of companies seeing improved employee motivation and strengthened relationships as a key benefit,” he said. Unique and personalised service for events “For senior leaders looking to improve company culture, boost performance, retain talent, and create strong teams, including an incentive travel program in their overall strategy is a good place to start. More often than not, the benefits are qualitative, not quantitative. “Looking ahead, it's clear that the industry's future growth will be defined by how well those deliver unique and personalised service, enable and encourage responsible travel choices, and design events that are accessible and engaging on every level.” The FCM Meetings & Events 2025 Trends Report tapped into the minds of planners across 28 countries and 22 industries.
96% of Indians Plan to Travel the Same or More This Summer: Skyscanner
Representative Image Skyscanner has released its Smarter Summer Report, revealing how Indians are travelling with a ‘maximiser’ mindset this season, opting for smarter, savvier and more experience-rich adventures than ever before. With a whopping 96% of Indians planning to take the same or more trips than last year and 95% citing maximising summer vacations as their top priority in 2025, Indians are now putting thought into every detail. They are curating itineraries while staying flexible with their travel dates or considering alternative options to beat the crowds, all to make their money go further and make the most of their journeys. In their quest for more meaningful experiences, Indian travellers are expanding their horizons. 58% plan to explore places they haven’t considered before, and 51% want to tick off multiple spots in one trip, showing a clear shift towards exploration and memorable getaways. Calm and crowd-free This shift in preferences is also reflected in their choice of destinations – over half (52%) of Indian travellers prefer quieter, less-crowded locations over the usual tourist hotspots. It’s not just about where they go, it’s also about when — the shoulder season is gaining popularity among Indian travellers, with 1 in 2 open to travelling during these periods to avoid crowds and surge pricing. Together, these choices reflect a move away from the frenzy of peak season tourism and towards a summer experience that is more intentional. The Value-First Summer Planner Indian travellers are planning their summer getaways with a sharper focus on value and flexibility. 62% are actively seeking budget-friendly stays, while 56% are using travel comparison tools like Skyscanner to scout the best deals across flights, hotels, and car hires. Flexibility is key, with 84% open to moving their travel dates, and 47% willing to fly on less popular days to unlock greater savings. Solving the Summer Planning Puzzle Interestingly, even with clear travel goals and preferences, nearly half (49%) of Indian travellers have yet to book their summer holidays and are actively exploring options. The main reason? 38% are still undecided on where to go, highlighting a need for destination inspiration and guidance. This is where Skyscanner’s Smarter Summer Report steps in – offering practical insights to help travellers maximise their summer, from identifying the cheapest weeks to fly and sharing smart planning tips to highlighting alternative destinations that offer better value and fewer crowds. For wanderers who cherish that perfect in-between window when the heat starts to ease and the crowds thin out, Skyscanner’s curated lists — the Top 10 Cheapest and Popular Alternative Destinations, along with the Top 10 Cheapest Destinations for Summer 2025 — offer that sweet spot for savvy Indian travellers seeking adventure without the splurge. (Refer to Appendix) Sharing his views on the 2025 Indian summer travel trends, Mohit Joshi, Travel and Destinations Expert, Skyscanner, said, “Summer is a popular time for Indian travellers to take a well-earned break and explore new places. What’s different this year is how intentional people are about planning. They want to get the most value from their trips, but many are still unsure about when and where to go and how to plan it all, within their budget. In fact, 77% believe weekends are the most expensive time to fly, but that is not always true, and 44% don’t realise that some weeks are significantly cheaper than others. That’s why we created the Smarter Summer Report to help travellers cut through the noise and make confident decisions. According to our data, Sunday* is the cheapest day to fly, and the week of 25 August** is the most budget-friendly of the season. To make the most of their summer adventures, a pro tip for travellers would be to see which month is the cheapest by hitting the ‘flexible dates’ option when searching on the Skyscanner app, to see not only the cheapest month but also the day with the lowest price per month to travel to the destination. For those seeking to pack more experiences into their summer holidays, Skyscanner’s multi-city search tool allows users to search up to six routes simultaneously when planning their journey, perfect for experiencing multiple destinations in a single trip. Our goal is to empower travellers with clarity, flexibility, and smarter tools so they can enjoy their holidays without making a huge dent in their bank balance.” Climb, Chill, Explore Skyscanner’s summer data also shows that 50% of Indian travellers are actively seeking destinations with cooler climates this summer, a trend that’s pushing hill towns, mountains, and high-altitude getaways into sharper focus. In response to this growing trend, Skyscanner partnered with The Land of Wanderlust, one of India’s leading backpacking collectives, to curate the ‘Ultimate Backpacker’s Guide’ for Indian travellers, which will serve as a handbook for them when taking off on their mountain adventures this season. Sherwin Rebello, Founder, The Land of Wanderlust, adds, “We’re seeing a growing number of travellers choosing the mountains not just to escape the heat, but to embrace a slower, more meaningful way of exploring. From spontaneous backpackers to digital nomads, more people are looking for flexible, experience-led travel that fits their lifestyle. Social media still plays a big role in inspiring trips, especially for younger travellers who often join after seeing friends or creators visit a destination. But it’s not just Gen Z. We’ve also seen an increase in private group requests often from young families or older couples who want the comfort of travelling at their own pace while staying in local homestays. Digital nomads, on the other hand, are choosing quieter towns with reliable networks so they can work while still soaking in the mountain air. Whether it’s a weekend escape, a remote work setup, or a slow-travel holiday, there’s a clear shift towards intentional, immersive journeys across age groups.” Ultimate Backpacker’s Guide To help travellers make the most of their adventures this summer, The Land of Wanderlust shares their top tips for a seamless backpacking experience: Double the Bags, Double the Freedom: Bring two. A 50L main backpack that fits it all without breaking your back, and a smaller daypack — perfect for short hikes when you want to travel light and leave the bulk behind. Scrapes Happen. Be Ready: A compact first aid kit can go a long way. Toss in essentials like band-aids, antiseptic, and blister patches because mountain trails don’t come with medical booths. Pack Warm, Climb High: From icy winds to surprise drizzles, mountain weather is anything but predictable. Jackets, thermals, and sturdy trekking shoes will keep you warm, dry, and trail ready. Stay Fresh, Stay Respectful: A compact toiletries kit is essential not just for your comfort, but to ensure you leave the environment as clean as you found it. Pack smart, travel responsibly. Sun Strong? Shade Stronger: The higher you go, the harsher the sun. Sunscreen and sunglasses aren’t optional; they’re survival gear for your skin and eyes. Power That Lasts the Climb: A power bank is your lifeline. Whether it’s maps, music, or just capturing that summit shot — don’t let your devices tap out before you do.
‘Riviera Travel’ showcases Sri Lanka to 30 Top Travel Agents
Riviera Travel has just returned from its largest-ever fam trip, offering 30 top-performing travel agents the opportunity to experience the magic of Sri Lanka first-hand. Hosted by Claire Hills, Alex Davies, and Belle Whitehurst of Riviera Travel, the 11-day educational journey was awarded to agents who were among the first to complete Riviera Explorer the company’s new e-learning platform launched in October 2024 following a £350,000 investment. The agents selected also demonstrated strong engagement with the Riviera brand and a clear passion for selling Riviera cruises and tours. The Riviera Travel mega fam trip to Sri Lanka was attended by representatives from a wide range of travel agencies and consultancies, including: Mark Donaldson from Your Coop Travel Solihull Mandy Phillips from Miles Morgan Travel Isabella Whitehurst-Cully from Riviera Travel Karen Allan from Althams Travel Services - Accrington Isabella Chitty from Baldwins Travel Lewes Scott Harrison from Brunlea Travel Lucy Avery from Hays Travel Barnard Castle Kerry Lowe from Silver Travel Advisor Claire Hills from Riviera Travel Sian Elder from Fred Olsen Travel Eastbourne Alexander Davies from Riviera Travel Mark Ferrier from Barrhead Travel Clydebank Libby Poole from Once in a Lifetime Holidays Ruth Harper from Travel Counsellors Mary Barnes from Travel by Hannah Claire Wheeler from Barrhead Travel Glenn Michael Wright from Millington Travel Rugby Heidi Frith from InteleTravel Clare Masterson from Premier Travel Sudbury Mollie Robinson from Miles Morgan Travel Carol O’Neill from Not Just Travel Wendy Morrison from Unwind Away (a franchisee of Explorer Travel) Geraldine Sproston from Hays Travel (Personal Travel Consultant) Julie Bennett from Brilliant Travel Holly Underwood from Lincolnshire Co-op Travel Grantham Dan Hammond from GoCruise & Travel Hannah Blackmore from Cruise365/Bucket List Travel Darren Morrison from Travel Counsellors Jane Watson from Hays Travel Chester-le-Street Chloe Watts from Hays Travel – Gosport Lindsay Taylor from Hays Travel, Broadstone The trip was designed to mirror Riviera’s signature Sri Lanka itinerary, allowing participants to fully experience the product they sell, with no outside sponsorship, ensuring a true Riviera experience from start to finish. Highlights of the trip included visits to four UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Golden Temple of Dambulla, the sacred city of Kandy, Sigiriya Rock Fortress, and the historic Galle Fort. Agents explored Kandy in depth, including the famed Temple of the Tooth and a guided tour of the stunning Royal Botanical Gardens. The itinerary also allowed time to relax with two days on Sri Lanka’s pristine tropical beaches. Participants visited the Elephant Transit Home, where orphaned elephants are cared for before being released back into the wild, and embarked on an exhilarating 4x4 safari in Yala National Park, renowned for its leopards, elephants, and rich biodiversity. A guided tour through the tea-growing regions of Nuwara Eliya included a traditional Ceylon tea tasting, while a climb of the 5th-century Sigiriya Rock offered breathtaking views and a look into the ancient Royal Palace and Citadel. Throughout the journey, scenic drives revealed Sri Lanka’s natural beauty, from verdant tea estates and shimmering rice paddies to lush spice plantations and swaying coconut groves. Though slightly condensed from the full Riviera itinerary, the 11-day trip included exclusive experiences to reward the agents' achievements while capturing a real taste of Riviera’s Sri Lankan trip. Claire Hills, Head of Trade Partnerships at Riviera Travel, commented:"This fam trip was about more than showcasing a destination – it was about celebrating the agents who’ve shown outstanding commitment to understanding and championing our brand. We wanted them to truly experience the Riviera difference, and Sri Lanka was the perfect backdrop for that." Feedback from agents who attend the trip is shared below: Heidi Frith, Independent Travel Agent said: "As a solo traveller myself, I can wholeheartedly say – just GO! I recently experienced the Sri Lanka for Solo Travellers tour and absolutely loved it. It’s truly designed with solo travellers in mind. Not confident about getting to the airport? No problem – book the concierge door-to-door pick-up and travel stress-free. Worried about the airport or long-haul flight? Don’t be! A friendly Riviera rep meets you at the airport, and you'll start connecting with fellow travellers straight away. Nervous about meeting people? Honestly, there’s no need. The Tour Manager does a brilliant job of helping everyone mingle, and with such a great mix of people, you're bound to find like-minded friends.Whether you're into history, culture, wildlife, or adventure – you’ll find your tribe on this trip!" Hannah Blackmore from Cruise365 said: 'Sri Lanka was without a doubt one of the best countries I have ever visited (if not the best!) This experience however, wouldn't have been the same if I wasn't on a tour with Riviera. On a tour with Riviera every detail is thoughtfully arranged, from comfortable transport and hand picked accommodations to expert tour managers and well paced itineraries. There was so many highlights of the trip, however if I did have to choose one it definitely had to be Yala National Park! This day was simply life changing, and was one of the best days of my life. With a Riviera tour, you get so much included in such a short space of time, and you are truly immersed into the destination. Each day was filled with vibrancy and excitement, and the tour was ran to perfection by the local tour guide and our tour manager. This experience has made the decision even easier to choose Riviera as one of our preferred operators as it gave a true insight to how amazing their product truly is. This tour completely exceeded all my expectations of Sri Lanka, but this is more a testament to Riviera Travel who have curated the perfect itinerary which is suitable for any traveller.' Karen, Altham Travel said: “I would like to thank you all again for the amazing opportunity! I really did had the best time and I can't wait for our clients to experience a tour or cruise with you soon! Ruth Harper – Travel Counsellors said: “The whole tour was amazing and so well organised, but to have experienced a tour for the first time and see how well organised it was with luggage, will definitely help me to sell Riviera to my clients. It will really help me address any concerns they might have about moving from one hotel to another. The tour would definitely help me to sell Riviera tours to solo travellers as that’s how we experienced Sri Lanka, by having our own rooms.” Mary Barnes, Travel by Hannah said: “Before the trip, Sri Lanka wasn't somewhere I knew a lot about, and it really exceeded any of my expectations. The group was amazing, as well as you guys from Riviera, and it will be a trip I will never forget. Every customer that comes into the shop now, I'm trying to promote Sri Lanka to, as I feel like it's a destination that people don't really think of them are aware of how much there is to do and see there. It's so difficult to pick a favourite part of the trip, but I think it would have the be the afternoon safari and seeing the 3 leopards interacting. Having not seen any leopards in the morning, I was really thinking we wouldn't see any, so this was just incredible to see. I also really liked how much the tour had plenty of free time built around all of the activities. It was the perfect mixture of exploring and chilling, in my opinion.” "Sri Lanka was my first visit to Asia, and while I initially felt apprehensive about immersing myself in a new and unfamiliar culture, traveling with Riviera completely transformed the experience into one that was both enjoyable and unforgettable. I felt safe and well cared for throughout the journey. Our tour manager's extensive experience and in-depth knowledge provided great reassurance, while our local guide was exceptional—offering valuable insights into Sri Lanka's rich history and heritage. The tour itself was thoughtfully curated, striking a perfect balance between cultural exploration and relaxation. Based on my experience, I would confidently recommend and sell a Riviera escorted tour to my clients without hesitation"
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