March 2025


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CONTENTS | 3


Thailand and toronto top choices among ni holidaymakers


... continued from Pg. 1...


Page 14: Nigel Heath steps out for more advetnures on the Chiltern Way..


Page 18-19: As seen on screen... Exploring the trand of ‘Set- Jetting’


Page 23-34: The latest news in sustainability - 12 PAGE PULLOUT


Page 36: Fancy something new?


Look towards these lesser-known destinations in 2025...’


For the Easter holidays, the top destinations for winter sun are Tenerife, Antalya, and Costa Blanca, while long- haul travellers are favouring Orlando, Mexico, and New York. This year, a noteworthy trend is emerging as families are increasingly opting for travel during the Easter break rather than the traditional summer holiday. This shift is likely driven by the desire to secure better deals and avoid the sweltering summer heat, particularly as many popular summer destinations have been experiencing record temperatures. At City of Derry Airport, they are


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seeing an increase in travel between the Northwest region and the Middle East. Steve Frazer, Managing Director at City of Derry Airport: “A travel trend we are seeing at City of Derry Airport is the increase in passenger travel between the Northwest region and the Middle East. Recent passenger data released indicates Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Doha as the most popular international connections from City of Derry Airport, and this trend looks set to continue across 2025 with single-tickets available to book directly with Emirates, Etihad and Qatar Airways. “With the recent launch of easyJet services from City of Derry Airport to Edinburgh and Liverpool, and the increase in frequency on


t h e existing services to London


and Glasgow with Loganair, and to Manchester with Ryanair from April, the short break market from the Northwest looks set to grow further in 2025. “Additionally, passengers are seeking convenience more than ever, and we are proud that City of Derry Airport can meet these needs; with a journey time of less than 15 minutes from the carpark to the departure gate through the single- level Terminal, parking from just £34.58 for one week, and one of the best priced Airport Lounges in the UK, a fast, friendly and


convenient travel experience is


guaranteed.” Recent statistics have also indicated


a significant increase in the number of Northern Irish tourists visiting Thailand. Travel agencies have report a 30% rise in bookings compared to previous years,


highlighting a growing trend


among holidaymakers seeking exotic locales. The introduction of more direct and affordable flight routes has also contributed to making Thailand more accessible,


contributing to its rising popularity.


For example, families


can find direct flights from Dublin to Bangkok, with options available for


as low low, as £400


round-trip. In Thailand, the cost of living remains


offering travellers a chance to experience luxurious accommodations


and vibrant culture without breaking the bank. Many Northern Irish visitors have shared glowing reviews of their experiences in Thailand. Jane McCarthy, a


traveller from Belfast, remarked,


“Thailand was everything I hoped for and more. The landscapes are stunning, and the people are incredibly welcoming. It’s a destination I would recommend to anyone.” Moreover, Toronto remains a popular destination, with its diverse attractions appealing to families. Direct flights available from Dublin to Toronto can be found for approximately £350 round-trip, making it an attractive option for those looking to explore North America. While Toronto continues to charm travellers with its dynamic city life,


Orlando is also preparing for a bumper year in tourism. Known as the “Theme Park Capital of the World,” Orlando has long been a favourite destination for families and thrill-seekers alike. This year, several factors are contributing to its anticipated influx of visitors. Orlando’s warm climate and family- friendly accommodations make it an ideal destination for those seeking a sunny escape. Also the opening of the new Universal Park Epic Universe in May is credited with the boost in family holiday bookings.


Nashville is also gaining traction as


well, thanks to the rising interest in country music and the new direct flights from Dublin which launch on April 12th. As we look ahead, the cruise industry is also expected to grow in popularity, bolstered by increased capacity across various segments, including ocean, river, and expedition cruising. With additional ships being introduced by major cruise lines like MSC, Uniworld, NCL, and Royal Caribbean in 2025, the cruise experience is evolving to meet the rising demand. In recent years, cruise travel has witnessed a remarkable surge in popularity among travellers from Northern Ireland. Speaking to NI Travel News, an industry expert explained that Northern Irish travellers are increasingly drawn to the “convenience, variety, and value that cruise holidays offer”.


Ryanair Announces NEW ROUTE from Belfast – NOW FLYING 19


ROUTES FOR SUMMER 2025 WITH a total of 19 routes on offer – including an exciting new destination to Kaunas, Lithuania – travellers can look forward to enhanced connectivity to beloved spots like Malaga, Alicante, and Malta. This strategic expansion reflects a robust 16% growth and is backed by a significant $200 million investment in two aircraft based in Belfast, promising to support over 1,000 local jobs and stimulate year- round tourism. However, the airline’s ambitious


plans come amidst growing concerns over regional connectivity and tourism in the UK, particularly under the new Labour government. Critics argue that the government’s decision to increase Air Passenger Duty (APD) taxes by £2 per passenger starting in 2026 is counterproductive. This tax hike is


seen as a blow to growth, potentially steering millions of travellers away from the UK to nations like Sweden, Spain, Portugal, and Italy, where aviation taxes are being slashed to promote tourism. Ryanair’s Chief Marketing Officer, Dara Brady, did not hold back in expressing frustration over the APD increase.


“Ryanair is pleased to


announce our Summer 2025 schedule for Belfast,” he stated, highlighting the new routes and additional flights. However, he lamented that the increased APD taxes pose a significant hurdle to growth, particularly for regional airports. “If the UK Government wants to deliver growth, they should abolish their penal and damaging APD tax, which makes the UK uncompetitive,” he urged.


As Ryanair charts


Jet Off from Belfast: Aer Lingus Regional Launches Exciting Summer Flights!


IN A delightful announcement that will surely raise the spirits of summer travellers, Lingus Regional, Emerald Airlines,


operated by is bringing


back its seasonal flight service connecting Belfast City Airport to the stunning Cornwall Airport Newquay. Mark your calendars— this exciting route is set to take off on June 28th and will soar through the skies until August 30th, with flights scheduled twice a week on


Wednesdays and Saturdays Newquay,


Aer often hailed as


Cornwall’s crown jewel, is ready to welcome adventure-seekers and relaxation enthusiasts alike. As summer beckons, the skies over Belfast and Newquay are set to buzz with activity, making this the perfect opportunity for those looking to trade urban scenery for coastal bliss. So pack your beach gear and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!


its course for a sunny Summer 2025, the future of travel from Belfast hangs in the balance, dependent on the unfolding political landscape and its impact on tourism in the region.


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