8 UPDATES Abroad Holidays Boom for Brits


Local NI Operator Launch New Ski Destination from Belfast


TRAVEL Solutions, Northern Ireland’s largest ski operator, today (11 May) launched their new winter ski programme to Austria, flying direct from Belfast. Making the announcement, the company’s Managing Director, Peter McMinn, said “ This is an exciting time for Travel Solutions as we start on a programme of growth on our ski portfolio, and we are pleased to add Austria as it is always a popular ski destination with local skiers.” Peter continued,“ We have recently strengthened our


85% of Brits want to holiday abroad this summer after two years of putting holidays on hold reveals latest data. New consumer research into summer 2022 holiday trends has found that just 15% plan to holiday in the UK, a dramatic fall from pre-pandemic intentions at the end of 2019, when 45% of Brits said that they would holiday in the UK the following summer. This data reflects an even greater shift from the height of the pandemic in 2020, when 55% said that they were planning to take a domestic holiday. HolidayPirates data found that 37% of Brits said that they took no holiday at all in 2021. With cost-of-living issues looming, Brits are clearly


taking their chances with airline staff shortages and making a dash for the summer sun in 2022, with 74% saying that they will go on a beach holiday. Greece, mainland Spain, the Caribbean, the Canary Islands and


Turkey top the destination preference charts. Our thirst for adventure has also jumped. Pre- pandemic, only 8% said that they would take a sports or adventure break with 27% now saying that they will be taking an adventure holiday in the UK. Budgeting is the primary concern with 42% saying that they will spend under £500 for a week away and 37% saying that they will spend between £500 and £1,000. The survey also found that budget friendly, all-inclusive deals are the most favoured board basis, with 41% saying they intend to holiday this way and the vast majority favour hotels over other types of accommodation – with a quarter saying they are choosing a holiday home.


Full the full data survey, visit www.holidaypirates. com


ski team, with the arrival of Tricia Mitchell, and Tricia brings a wealth of knowledge having sold the region for many years with another operator. Her contacts have ensured our Austria programme will offer the right resorts for the local ski market and will ensure we remain competitive. She is available to our customers and our travel partners to offer advice on the best resort to match customers’ requirements and budgets.” Travel Solutions will operate a weekly programme from Belfast International to Salzburg starting on the 24th of December 2022 through to the 11th of March 2023.Book today by telephoning 028 9045 5030 , click on www.travel-solutions.co.uk or contact your local


travel agent.


TUI Launch New Belfast to USA Route for 2023


TUI Airways have announced its new Belfast route to the United States of America next Summer. TUI will operate its own Boeing 787 Dreamliner


aircraft on the non-stop Belfast route to Melbourne Orlando International Airport on 22nd & 29th June and 6th and 13th July 2023 offering fourteen-night holidays in Orlando.


Orlando, one of Florida’s biggest cities and suitably known as the theme park capital of the world, is a beacon destination for young and old alike looking for thrill seeking and fun holiday-making memories to last a lifetime. As well as a variety of theme, wildlife and water parks, Orlando also boasts a fantastic shopping scene with a host of shopping malls and outlets. Added to this, the themed restaurants and lively nightlife make it an ideal holiday destination.


Portugal to Host the United Nations’ Ocean Conference other nations.


PORTUGAL will host the United Nations’ Ocean Conference, in Lisbon, from June 27th to July 1st, 2022. Aiming to “Save the Ocean, Protect the Future”, this conference is a co-organisation between the UN and the Governments of Portugal and Kenya.


The Conference, as well as the associated special events, call for the participation of States, civil society and partners from the business and associative sector, urging them to take an active role in achieving the goals of SDG 14 – Protect Marine Life – and to commit to the sustainability of marine resources.


At a critical and decisive moment for the Planet, Portugal is committed to highlighting the nexus between the Climate and the Ocean. It is necessary to protect the ocean to guarantee the future. In this context, the Conference takes place at an ideal time to stimulate new habits and a sustainable blue economy, based on innovative solutions based on science, on more environmentally friendly technologies and on the sustainable use of marine resources, protecting biodiversity and reducing pollution.


Portugal, the country that hosts the conference, is 18 times more ocean than land, being the third country with the largest EEZ (exclusive economic zone) in the European Union. Portuguese history and culture are marked by a deep relationship with the sea, which has also determined the open, available and innovative character of its people. The oceans have also been a reason for establishing commercial and economic initiatives and defining strategic relationships with


The Portuguese coastline is extensive: with over 2500 km between mainland and islands, it is punctuated by a variety of natural conditions and an exceptional climate, which always provides unique and unforgettable experiences. It is precisely because of these assets that Portugal is one of the water sports destinations, especially surfing, which is a worldwide reference and can be practiced all year round. The variety and quality of surf spots, with emphasis on the “Canhão da Nazaré” (Nazaré North Canyon), where the underwater geology allows the formation of giant and perfect waves, and the Ericeira Surf Reserve, ranked first in Europe by the Save the Waves Coalition, generate great moments for water sports lovers. Portuguese Natural Parks with an oceanic component are recognised all over the world, especially those on the east coast, such as Sintra-Cascais and Arrábida, and to the south, in the form of the labyrinthine channels of the beautiful Ria Formosa. They are certified destinations, with high natural value, where preservation comes first. The ocean plays a critical role in protecting the health of our planet, providing oxygen and food, functioning as the main climate regulator, absorbing excess carbon emissions and mitigating the impact of climate change. The resilience of marine ecosystems must be preserved, so ocean-based climate action, supported by political will and investment in technology, will allow the oceans to remain the main instrument in the fight against climate change.


With TUI, Northern Ireland holidaymakers will have a choice of over 80 hotels for their stay in Florida ranging from Universal Orlando Resort, Walt Disney World Resort, International Drive as well as Kissimmee, Lake Buena Vista and the beach resort of Cocoa Beach in the heart of Florida’s Space Coast.


Speaking about the welcome addition of its Florida programme, Craig Morgan, Head of Ireland for TUI, said, “We are very excited to welcome Florida into our Summer 23 programme from Belfast International on our own Boeing 787 Dreamliner. The appetite for travel is stronger than ever and customers who may not have travelled abroad at all, or as much as they would’ve liked over the last two years, are now planning well ahead into next year and choosing holidays that provide lifelong family memories and satisfy bucket list dreams. This non-stop flight from Belfast to Melbourne Orlando provides the perfect opportunity to explore the sunshine state next summer.” Uel Hoey from Belfast International Airport adds: “The expansion of TUI destinations to include Florida from Belfast International is a welcome addition for holidaymakers across Northern Ireland. The addition of a transatlantic route to Florida boosts our connectivity to one of the most sought-after holiday destinations in the world. This enables us to offer more choice and convenience for passengers with non-stop flights from their local airport. We know that people are excited to travel again, and we are delighted to be the first part of their holiday experience before they reach Florida.” Within June and July 2023, holiday markers can


travel from Belfast International Airport to Melbourne Orlando International Airport.


Flights are currently on sale for 4 Thursdays across June and July ( Two in June and two in July). For more information, please visit https://www.tui.


co.uk/ Finnair Celebrates 30 Years of Finnair Plus


FINNAIR is celebrating the 30th anniversary of its Finnair Plus frequent flyer programme with a host of special incentives for new and existing customers. Members of the Finnish flag carrier’s flight loyalty


scheme can also enjoy triple awards, flight discounts and lounge access on future flights across the airline’s route network. The Finnair Plus program was introduced in 1992 and has proved popular with the airline’s customers since its launch.


New customers who sign up to become Finnair Plus members between now and 10 May could win one of 30 pairs of lounge passes for use at Helsinki Airport. Pekka Antila, Finnair Head of Loyalty, said: “Finnair is proud to be celebrating the 30th anniversary of our Finnair Plus frequent flier programme. “As a thank you for their continued support, we are pleased to be rewarding our members with a range of


exciting offers to make their future flights with us even more enjoyable. “Finnair Plus members can benefit from triple awards


and flight discounts and the opportunity to win lounge access.


“We are also keen to welcome new members to our exclusive loyalty programme, and expand the Finnair family, as we look forward to the next 30 years of Finnair Plus as we get set to celebrate the airline’s centenary next year.”


Finnair Plus members booking Finnair flights by 10


May 2022, for travel up until 31 December 2022, can earn triple awards and tier points. Award flights are also discounted by up to 30% on


most Finnair routes when booked by 10 May for travel until 30 November 2022. Those looking to experience flying at the front of the aircraft with Finnair in Business Class, can also win


June 2022 Travel News


Jumeirah Group Launches New Lounge at Dubai International Airport


JUMEIRAH Group has officially launched the Jumeirah Airport Lounge at Dubai International (DXB), located at the heart of Terminal 3 Arrivals. Designed to deliver the Group’s signature hospitality


and encourage guests to relax and enjoy their first moments in the city, the Jumeirah Airport Lounge offers travellers a taste of the brand’s renowned hospitality and Dubai’s seven-star luxury. A unique addition to the brand’s list of innovative offerings, the announcement comes as the global travel and tourism industry prepares to gather at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2022 in Dubai to discuss the future of travel and tourism. Welcoming those with reservations or those looking to book on arrival, the lounge invites guests to start their leisure or business experience from the moment they arrive in its impressive 250sqm salon. Modelled in the style of one of the brand’s luxurious presidential suites, it features an array of services and amenities specially curated to give visitors and guests an unforgettable experience. Exuding warm hospitality, the new airport lounge


offers culinary creations inspired by its signature dining destinations as well as lavish surroundings combining contemporary furnishings with striking artworks from Emirati artist, Mattar bin Lahej – the artist behind the Museum of the Future calligraphy, and young up and coming Portuguese artist Ana d’Castro. José Silva, Chief Executive Officer of Jumeirah Group, said: “We are immensely proud that, in partnership with Dubai Airports, we have created an exceptional arrival experience unlike any other, with the Jumeirah Airport Lounge. Beautifully designed in the style of a presidential suite, the lounge caters to indulgent comfort and functional needs of the modern- day traveller. It demonstrates the importance we place on the entire guest journey, ensuring their arrival experience is as good as their stay in our hotels. It also gives our guests and visitors a stunning window into the Jumeirah brand experience and showcases the incredible calibre of luxury hospitality Dubai has to offer. The opening of this prestigious airport lounge is a statement to the industry of our mission to continue to raise the bar and deliver on our promise of Stay Different.” Three distinctive zones include an inviting welcome space with dedicated check-in and transportation services; a plush waiting area to relax and enjoy delicious culinary bites as well as its signature resident barista coffee experience; and a private VIP room offering a host of bespoke personalisation services by a dedicated guest relations and butler service team trained by Burj Al Arab Jumeirah experts, for the pinnacle of service excellence. Guests are also able to freshen up from their flight in the lounge’s spectacular bathrooms. Featuring a large shower and array of Amouage luxury bath and body amenities, guests can start their working day or make the most of their first 24 hours in the city while their luggage is transferred directly to their room – gone is the lost travel day. Please visit Jumeirah.com/JumeirahAirportLounge for more information on the Jumeirah Airport Lounge at DXB, and Jumeirah.com for further details on the brand’s array of unique experiences.


Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind Debuts at Disney


SAVING the galaxy this time is gonna take more than a dance-off. Beginning 27 May 2022, guests visiting EPCOT at Walt Disney World Resort better get ready to crank up the mixtape and blast off an awesome intergalactic chase through time and space in Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind!


exclusive lounge access. Members can also enjoy 30% off designer products


from beloved brands such as Marimekko and Iittala, when they are delivered straight to their doors. Finnair Plus members will be awarded three award points for every Euro spent on these products in the Finnair Shop during May. They can also enjoy a third off duty-free products pre-ordered from the Nordic carriers’ shop. As a member of Finnair’s frequent flyer program, customers can earn points and use them on flights, upgrades and many other products. Members are also the first to receive special offers and member-exclusive benefits like discounts on flights and points. To find out more about the programme and to join visit: finnair.com/gb-en/finnair-plus


This new family-thrill coaster matches the “grandosity” and fun of the blockbuster “Guardians of the Galaxy” films, featuring those legendary cosmic outlaws – Rocket, Groot, Drax, Gamora and Star-Lord (aka Peter Quill). The innovative attraction is another major milestone in the ongoing transformation of EPCOT and debuts as part of the Walt Disney World 50th Anniversary celebration.


Located in the park’s newly renamed World Discovery neighbourhood, Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind is the first “other-world” showcase pavilion at EPCOT. Xandarians travelled from their homeworld in the Andromeda Galaxy to Earth – or Terra, as they call it – to create the Wonders of Xandar pavilion, inviting EPCOT guests to learn more about their people and their advanced technologies. That is… until something goes wrong and the Xandarians call the Guardians of the Galaxy for help.


For more on the transformation of EPCOT and the Walt Disney World Resort 50th Anniversary celebration, visit WDWNews.com and DisneyParksBlog.com.


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