Travel

Brexit and terror will never undermine UK’s thirst for travel – Kuoni

Published

9 years ago

December 23, 2016

Neither the weak pound nor security threats will be enough to turn Brits away from international adventures, the marketing director of premium travel company Kuoni told Campaign, as it prepares the launch a visually distinctive TV campaign on Christmas Day.

“We did feel the effect of a nervous public” following terrorist attacks such as the bombings in Paris last November, said Dean Harvey, “but the British public are quite resilient.”

And since the referendum in June, after which the pound plummeted against the dollar, Kuoni had not seen a downturn in bookings, he added. “The holiday is one of the last things to go.”

The challenge for travel companies, Harvey said, was to demonstrate the ability to provide holidays that catered to consumer needs that might be changed by the economic or political climate. Travellers whose budgets have been squeezed by the falling pound present an opportunity for all-inclusive trips which can make it easier for them to budget, he said.

The new campaign, “Out of the ordinary”, created by Brighton-based agency Designate, aims to profile the breadth of trips offered by Kuoni.

It features a swimmer moving through a series of backdrops – including an island in the Maldives, African plains and an Italian piazza – which are created by manipulating still photographs. The ad was directed by Luke Losey and features an original track by Paul Hartnoll from electronic act Orbital.

Harvey said that Kuoni was primarily known for the Maldives, an association that was holding back its ability to increase business with existing consumers by getting them to consider it for other types of holidays – especially short haul trips.

“Kuoni owns more stores than Apple – over 50,” said Harvey. “The brand has some traction, but our research has shown that people only know us for special occasions or long haul. We’re able to sell quite a wide range of products, from Europe to the Maldives to cruises. We wanted to have our customers come back on a more frequent basis.”

The TV spot will be supported by digital, social and press, with a sale booklet going out in The Times and The Daily Telegraph in January.

Harvey predicted that after two decades in which low-cost airlines have driven the growth of the travel industry, package holidays would start to make a comeback as consumers reevaluate their priorities.

“We think the novelty of planning your own holiday is fading,” he said. “It’s become such a protracted process, and you’re never quite sure you’ve made the right choice.”

He acknowledged that package holidays suffered from “image problems”, but said that travel providers were working to shift the emphasis of their offer from merely convenience, to expertise and recommendation.

“We’re investing significantly in our retail store networks and partnerships with the trade. We encourage people to get off our website and speak to us – that recommendation aspect of what we do differentiates us from a number of players.”

Love

Romance in nature: Valentine’s week at Eri Maldives

Published

19 hours ago

February 14, 2026

m@ldives

Newly-launched Eri Maldives introduces its first Valentine’s programme A Love Set in Nature (10–16 February 2026), offering a nature-rooted, pared-back celebration of love designed for couples seeking presence, simplicity and meaningful time together.

Love, Shared at the Table

At the heart of Valentine’s at Eri is an intimate dining experience centred on an exquisite six-course Aphrodisiac Menu, paired with a chilled glass of Rosé Champagne at Soul Kitchen’s beach area or The Jetty, with live music and ocean sounds. Couples can also sample a Jumbo Valentine Cocktail designed for two at Sip & Dip, or opt for private dining at a secluded corner on the beach or in-villa with the Under the Canopy of Stars experience.

Adventures for Two

For couples who connect through discovery, Eri’s Valentine’s programme invites love to unfold through shared adventure, where guests can cement their love and Dive into Forever with a private Discover Scuba Diving session, welcoming learners of all levels. For a more elaborate adventure between sky and ocean, travellers can also sign up for the Tides & Togetherness combo excursion, which combines a 30-minute jet ski ride with a 45-minute guided snorkelling among Eri’s world-class house reef.

Slowing Down Time

As day gives way to dusk, the Golden Hour Serenades offers a gentle sunset cruise across the lagoon, with sparkling wine in hand and live guitar drifting as a prelude to the evening. Slipping into wellness, Between Sea & Stars offers another balanced alternative for guests to treat loved ones to a calming 60-minute aromatherapy massage and a private dinner at sunset with Champagne, giving travellers a reason to linger.

Curated for those wanting stillness to stay, Maldivian Ocean Dream offers an extended moment of rest, with a couples’ ritual lasting for an hour and half, using flowing palm stroke techniques inspired by the sea with aromatherapy to release tension.

A Love Story – Extended

Catering to couples who want it all, Eri’s full-day An Eternal Love Story itinerary offers a complete romantic journey that removes the need for choice. Thoughtfully curated, the experience flows from a Champagne breakfast and an afternoon of spa serenity into an evening of sunset cruising and dinner accompanied by Dom Pérignon Champagne, with a private photographer on hand to quietly capture the moments.

To top it all off, guests booking a minimum of two body massages during Valentine’s Week are invited to enjoy a complimentary 30-minute Foot Massage.

Sky Studios start from £313 per night on a Full Board basis, with 40% off applied when booking directly with Eri Maldives.

Cooking

Maagiri Hotel invites guests to celebrate Ramadan with daily Iftar

Published

20 hours ago

February 14, 2026

m@ldives

Maagiri Hotel has announced the availability of a daily Iftar experience throughout the holy month of Ramadan, inviting families, friends and corporate groups to gather and break their fast in a welcoming setting.

The Iftar buffet will be available every day during Ramadan and will feature a selection of traditional Ramadan dishes alongside international cuisine. Prepared by the hotel’s culinary team, the buffet will include local specialities, Middle Eastern favourites and a range of global offerings designed to cater to diverse preferences.

In addition to its daily Iftar service, Maagiri Hotel has introduced early booking benefits for corporate groups. Groups of 1 to 49 guests will be eligible for a 10 per cent discount, while groups of 50 guests and above will receive a 15 per cent discount. These corporate rates are available for bookings confirmed on or before 18 February.

The Ramadan Iftar programme reflects Maagiri Hotel’s focus on providing shared dining experiences centred on tradition, hospitality and togetherness during the holy month.

Guests and corporate organisers may make reservations or seek further information by calling 331 8484 or 722 8484, contacting the hotel via Viber on 722 8484, or emailing events@maagirihotel.com.

Awards

Ellaidhoo Maldives secures HolidayCheck Gold Award for second consecutive year

Published

2 days ago

February 13, 2026

m@ldives

Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon has been honoured with the HolidayCheck Gold Award 2026 for the second consecutive year, reaffirming its continued popularity among global travellers. The Gold Award is presented exclusively to accommodations that have won a HolidayCheck Award at least five times since 2019 and is reserved for only the 10 most popular hotels within each region.

Located in the North Ari Atoll, Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon is a resort widely recognised for its exceptional house reef and vibrant marine ecosystem. The island offers direct access to over 50 dive sites, alongside 24-hour diving opportunities, making it a sought-after destination for enthusiasts and seasoned divers alike. Its thriving reef has also earned international recognition from Lonely Planet as a premier diving destination, celebrated for having one of the best house reefs in the Maldives.

Accessible via a scenic 25-minute seaplane journey or a 90-minute speedboat ride from Malé, the resort combines effortless connectivity with an immersive island experience. Beyond diving, Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon is equally valued for its welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere, offering guests the opportunity to experience both relaxation and adventure within a compact and naturally rich island setting.

Commenting on the achievement, Sanjeeva Perera, Area General Manager for Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts Maldives, stated “Receiving the HolidayCheck Gold Award 2026 for the second consecutive year is a significant milestone for Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon. This recognition speaks to the consistent dedication of our team and the continued support of our guests. Maintaining strong recommendation rates over several years is built on attentive service, environmental responsibility, and delivering memorable experiences centred around our house reef and diving offerings.”

To discover award-winning diving, vibrant marine life, and an island stay shaped by consistent guest acclaim, make your booking today and take advantage of the resort’s exclusive Book Direct Summer offer, which includes complimentary speedboat transfers for stays until 31st October 2026.