June 2026 ... continued from pg 1
Page 22: Andrea McVeigh embraces the ‘Philly Life’...
Page 28: Brian
Mcalden explores Cavtat, Dubrovnik’s little brother...
Page 44: Erin English delves into the romantic allure of Verona...
Page 50: Nigel Heath recounts when a Scottish taxi driver saved the day...
making a return with the reassurance of airlines including easyJet, and Jet2 ensuring that customers will not receive any surcharges following their bookings, along with highlighting their fuel availability. By guaranteeing that no additional fees will be levied after booking, this provides the peace of mind needed for travellers to commit and book. Tour operator Jet2 published data in early
www.nitravelnews.com
May of 2026, showing a significant increase in customers choosing the protection of a package holiday. The data highlighted that package holiday bookings has risen to 51% since February. Steve Heapy, CEO of Jet2 said, “Consumers want assurance during times of uncertainty and package holidays provide that assurance.” Financial protection remains at the forefront of holiday makers’ decisions when considering booking a holiday. Claire Mulligan of Clubworld Travel speaks on the rise of package holidays and highlights the importance of booking through a travel agent, she said, “We’ve definitely seen an increase in people looking for fully protected package holidays,
families booking for this summer. There’s a real sense that people simply want to take a break and get away. It’s also encouraging to see the mainstream media highlighting just how important this is. Recent events have reinforced the value of booking through a travel agent and ensuring your holiday is fully protected.”
particularly
This highlights the importance of expert advice when booking your holiday. In addition to this, customers receive personal service when choosing a travel agent, including personalised holiday itineraries, finding destinations that suit your budget and lifestyle. Another benefit of booking a package holiday with a travel agent is that you will receive expert advice and support throughout your trip from start to finish. If anything unexpected happens during your trip you have someone to contact.
advantage of the choice of destinations on offer from their local airport. We’re also really looking forward to launching new routes to Rome and Sharm El Sheikh later this year. “We’re fully focused on delivering a smooth, safe and efficient journey for everyone travelling through the airport, and passengers will notice a real step change in their experience following a major transformation of the terminal. We’re excited to welcome travellers to a refreshed environment, featuring a fantastic range of new outlets alongside much-loved favourites like The Lagan Bar — all designed to enhance every stage of the journey.”
Dublin Airport has also reported that they are expecting more than 3.5 million passengers in the peak summer months of June, July, August, with 100,000 passengers expected to travel through the airport every day from the start of June to the end of August.
ABOUT US Publisher
Jonathan Adair
Jonathan@nitravelnews.com
Editorial Sarah Kelly
Sarah@nitravelnews.com Erin English
Erin@nitravelnews.com Cara Thompson
Cara@nitravelnews.com
General Manager/Assistant Manager Christine McCleery
Christine@nitravelnews.com Abbie Stothers
Abbie@nitravelnews.com Advertising
Danielle Anderson
Danielle@nitravelnews.com Nadine Lawrence
Nadine@nitravelnews.com Events
Emma McAllister
Emma@nitravelnews.com Nicole Wilson
Nicole@nitravelnews.com
Travel News Limited 2B Pavilions Office Park Holywood Co Down BT18 9JQ
Tel: 028 9066 6151
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NI Travel News Welcomes New Assistant Manager Role Within the Team
NORTHERN Ireland Travel News is delighted to announce that Abbie Stothers has been promoted to Assistant Manager.
Specialising in Business Development and Events, Abbie will continue to develop client relationships, business opportunities and further events, whilst also leading the events department in brand and promotion development. With immediate effect, Abbie moves
from her current Business Development role, having been with the company since 2023.
Through close liaison with General Manager Christine McCleery,
and
Managing Director Jonathan Adair, Abbie will develop within her new role whilst carrying out day-to-day duties. Speaking on the promotion, Abbie expressed delight saying,
“I am beyond excited to take on this new job role within a business I am passionate about! Developing our client relationships,
business
opportunities and events and now also guiding and helping the team is a new
Wedding Bells For NI Travel News’ Sarah!
THE entire NI Travel News team extends their warmest congratulations to Senior Editor, Sarah Kelly, formerly Pickering,
on
nuptials to Matthew Kelly. Attending the joyous ceremony in Sarah's hometown, the NI Travel News team then travelled to the Ebrington Hotel for the wedding reception. A wonderful evening was had by all, and the entire team at NI Travel News would like to extend a massive congratulations to the brand new Mr and Mrs Kelly as they embark on their new chapter together.
exciting challenge.
“I am excited to continue working closely with our clients to ensure we are giving optimal exposure to their fabulous products and services within our media outlets and event opportunities. Ensuring that all our clients have a beneficial and enjoyable time at our live events and that our event attendees are happy is a prime focus of mine!” “I am personally delighted that Abbie has progressed to the new role of Assistant Manager.” says Managing Director, Jonathan Adair following the new appointment.
“She has shown great initiative in the new developments over the last two years and I wish her well in her new role” The entire team
wish to extend their
congratulations and best wishes to Abbie as she moves into this role.
The increased appeal for package holidays among holidaymakers is that they are secure with ATOL protection offering an added layer of reassurance when booking. This combined with the convenience of having one booking for all including flights, hotel, transfers, makes all the difference leading to less stress throughout. When booking through a travel agent, customers are able to budget better with the offered flexibility of installments when booking early. Along with added support, should disruption occur. The travel industry is continuously growing with popular destinations such as Spain, Portugal and the Canary Islands remaining at the top of Northern Irish holidaymakers lists. Turkey also remains a strong value for money destination.
summer
CONTENTS | 3
International Airport is preparing for another busy period, as people prioritise their
getaways and take
The demand for all inclusive package holidays is increasing; Advantage Travel Partnership released insights into customer booking behaviours for the summer 2026 season. The insights highlighted that the travel industry has seen a dual dynamic where families prioritise budget-friendly, all-Inclusive packages, while couples and premium travellers invest heavily in long- haul and cruise itineraries. Julia Lo-Bue-Said OBE, Travel
Advantage
“Looking at travel trends for Summer 2026 it’s clear that consumers are being intentional with their spend and this is evident from those locking in cost certainty through all inclusive packages, as well as those investing in experience-led long-haul bookings and cruises.” “We’re seeing a sophisticated evolution
Family holidays are still going ahead, Communications and Corporate Affairs Director at Belfast International Airport, Deborah Harris said, “Holidays are very much going ahead as planned, with a busy Easter and bank holiday period already setting the pace for the months ahead. As we move into the peak summer season, Belfast
of travel where value, flexibility, peace of mind and a seamless journey are the new currency and the benefit of booking through an expert travel agent has never proved to be more valuable.”
Partnership CEO, said: The
Ultimately the thirst for travel remains, what matters most during this time is confidence. And the travel trade is delivering that through reassurance, clarity and most importantly, providing security.
her recent
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