ABTA has appointed ex-Government minister and MP, David Rutley, to its Board of Directors. The appointment takes immediate effect. David’s last ministerial role was at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) where he was Minister for the Americas, Caribbean and Overseas Territories. His 14 years’ experience as an MP includes the position of Minister for Food and Animal Welfare, among other roles. Prior to entering politics, he held a number of Director-level roles at well-known organisations including Barclays and Asda. Ailsa Pollard, ABTA Chair, said: “David’s experience, in particular in the FCDO, will bring new insights which will support the ABTA Board in their discussions on serving our members.” The best Boards bring diverse experience and constructive challenge, and David is well placed to contribute both, offering significant and senior expertise.” "Travel and tourism is a vital and vibrant sector, making a significant contribution to the wider UK economy. In this new role, I am now looking forward to working hard for the travel industry, ABTA members and, ultimately, the millions of customers they serve,” David Rutley added.  

  The ABTA Board of Directors has appointed former Government minister and MP, David Rutley, to the Board with immediate effect.   David’s last ministerial role was at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) where he was Minister for the Americas, Caribbean and Overseas Territories. His 14 years’ experience as an MP also saw him act as Minister for Food and Animal Welfare, among other roles.   Prior to his political career, David held a number of Director-level roles at well-known organisations including Barclays and Asda.   Ailsa Pollard, ABTA Chair, said: “David’s experience, in particular in the FCDO, will bring new insights which will support the ABTA Board in their discussions on serving our members. The best Boards bring diverse experience and constructive challenge, and David is well placed to contribute both, offering significant and senior expertise in those areas of Government which are really important to our members and the sector more widely.”   David Rutley said: "Travel and tourism is a vital and vibrant sector, making a significant contribution to the wider UK economy. In my experience, I have always found ABTA to be a highly trusted organisation, with well-respected views and opinions. In this new role, I am now looking forward to working hard for the travel industry, ABTA members and, ultimately, the millions of customers they serve.”

  The ABTA Board of Directors has appointed Nicki Tempest-Mitchell, with immediate effect.   Nicki has been Managing Director of the Barrhead Travel Group since January 2025 and has over 36 years of experience across the UK travel industry, including roles at TUI, Royal Caribbean Group and Thomas Cook. Barrhead Travel Group is Scotland’s largest independent travel group and one of the largest in the UK as a whole.   Mark Tanzer, Chief Executive Officer, ABTA said: “The ABTA Board comprises people from a range of ABTA members, alongside those with experience from outside the world of travel. Nicki’s deep experience in our sector means she will bring considerable expertise, as we continue to support our members in 2026 and beyond.”   Nicki Tempest-Mitchell said: “I am proud to join ABTA’s Board of Directors and to support an organisation that plays such a critical role in our industry.  Developing talent, championing inclusion and maintaining the highest standards have been central to my career, and I welcome the opportunity to bring that focus to ABTA.  I really look forward to helping drive and support a thriving and resilient future for travel.”

  This weekend, and January as a whole, set for a surge in holiday bookings   With January traditionally one of the busiest months for people to book holidays, ABTA – The Travel Association has provided new inspiration for travellers with its annual ‘Destinations to Watch’ report.   The holiday bookings market is popular throughout January. With the coming weekend being the first after a full week back to work for most people, ABTA predicts travel agents and tour operators will see a surge in interest as people dream about their next relaxing break away from the world of work.   The new report features 10 destinations offering different types of holidays in different parts of the world and is designed to offer some fresh ideas to people looking for something more out of the ordinary. ABTA’s research shows that 48% of people say they are likely to visit a country this year which they haven’t been to before.   ABTA’s Director of Communications, Graeme Buck, said: “With booking a holiday front of mind for so many people right now, our Destinations to Watch report aims to inspire and excite. With a focus on countries or areas that may not immediately spring to mind, offering alternatives to more well-known destinations, there should be something for everyone.   “Factored into our thinking is a range of holiday types in all parts of the world. We’ve also considered the growing demand for experiential travel – for example indulging in hobbies and activities while on holiday, and many of the destinations featured in the report reflect this trend.   “ABTA members’ expertise means they can help people explore and book their new dream destination.”   The 10 Destinations to Watch in alphabetical order are:   Borneo This island is home to unspoilt rainforests, enormous cave systems and the iconic Mount Kinabalu and is an ideal destination for those seeking adventure and new experiences.   Colombia Idyllic beaches, historic cities, rainforests and truly great coffee, Colombia was already firmly on the radar for UK travellers.   Egypt A history dating back over 5,000 years is now showcased in the much-anticipated spectacular new Great Egyptian Museum in Giza on the outskirts of Cairo.   French Polynesia Palm fringed beaches, dark blue lagoons – a vision of paradise increasingly popular with UK holidaymakers.   The German Baltic Coast Pretty resorts, miles of sandy beaches cliffs and forests - welcome to the German Riviera. This lovely area is a holiday favourite for Germans but not so much known to outsiders.   Grenada Grenada, where fertile soils produce fragrant spices, as well as lush rainforest for those seeking a new Caribbean experience.   The Islands in the Gulf of Naples Just a short ferry ride from Naples and the Amalfi coast, these islands are a must-visit for new visitors and confirmed Italophiles.   La Rioja La Rioja in northern Spain is home to the country’s most famous wine and a great recommendation for those wanting to savour a truly authentic Iberian experience.   Luxembourg The delightful European duchy of Luxembourg packs a great deal within its borders, historic towns, fairytale castles and beautiful countryside.   Serbia From its hip and buzzy capital to its spectacular national parks, Serbia is ripe for discovery by those seeking a lesser-known European destination.   The report can be downloaded at www.abta.com/DestinationsToWatch2026

  ABTA’s new Travel Trends for 2026 report, launched today (Wednesday 26 November 2025), finds 25-34 year olds are the Travel Trendsetters – shaping travel for years to come, and September an increasingly popular month for overseas travel.   25-34 year olds have been dubbed the Travel Trendsetters by ABTA as they are the most prolific in their holiday taking, and place huge value on their breaks.   Around five in six (84%) of this group are planning to travel overseas in the next 12 months, well above the average of 70%. We also know from their travels this year that they take more holidays than anyone else – an average 5.5 holidays overall, including 2.2 abroad.   This is backed up by their commitment to splash their cash on travel - with almost half (49%) planning to spend more on their holidays in the next year.   It’s perhaps no surprise, given how much this group values time away, that 83% say holidays are the most important time of the year, more than any other age group (average is 65%).   They also place more importance on what holidays can do for their mental health and wellbeing, with 90% saying they are important for this reason versus the average of 80%.   In terms of the holidays they are taking, cruises are popular among this age group, with 19% taking one in the last 12 months, more than any other age group, including the over 65s (16%). This reflects the changing nature of cruise, with companies expanding their itineraries, activities and on-board facilities to appeal to a range of markets.   Also featured in the new report is the rise of ‘Super September’. The intention to travel during September has increased by seven percentage points over the last three years, from 17% in 2023 to 24% in 2025, outstripping the main summer months, and the trajectory is expected to continue into 2026.   ABTA says September is becoming more popular as people appreciate it as a good time to explore Europe and beyond, knowing that great weather is still likely, as well as good value breaks available. It also says that, with travellers increasingly looking to add a bit of adventure to their holidays – such as cycling and hiking - September can be a more suitable time to do so than the hottest summer months.   Graeme Buck, Director of Communications at ABTA – The Travel Association, said:   “Travel is a constantly evolving industry – presenting both opportunities and challenges for our members. What is clear from our research is that the demand to travel remains strong - with more people looking to travel abroad on holiday in 2026.   “The way people are travelling is changing, whether that’s embracing different types of trips or times of year to travel.   “ABTA travel companies are responding to these changing demands – working to make people’s holiday wishes a reality, all with the added peace of mind of being under the ABTA umbrella.”   These top trends and others for 2026 were released today (26 November 2025) at ABTA’s annual Travel Trends conference alongside a variety of the latest industry insights from other speakers.   ABTA’s full list of Travel Trends for 2026 (read in full at www.abta.com/TravelTrendsfor2026) are:

• Super September – Travelling abroad on holiday in this month increasingly popular
• Travel Trendsetters – 25–34-year-olds are shaping why, how, where and when we travel
• Rail-ly Good – Younger adults discovering the joys of train and interrailing holidays
• The Longest Haul – Exploring destinations the furthest away from home as possible
• Cruise Goes Long and Short – Appetite grows for very short and much longer itineraries

  ABTA says anyone tempted to for a taste of the new trends should speak to an ABTA travel agent or tour operator, harnessing their expertise to ideas and dreams into their ideal break, whilst providing any support or guidance needed along the way.  

ABTA has responded to news of the EES rollout across Europe is starting later this year, welcoming the ‘clarity’ it will bring for travellers and the travel agent community. It also called for the EU and the UK Government to agree a consistent communication plan to keep travellers updated as the rollout progresses over the coming months. The EU finally confirmed the start of the much delayed Entry/Exit System (EES). It will start on 12 October, with a phased implementation  until 9 April 2026. From 10 April 2026, EES is expected be fully operational at all EU borders. The EU has also stated that the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) will start sometime between October and December 2026. Mark Tanzer, Chief Executive of ABTA – The Travel Association said: “The confirmation of a 12 October start date for the phased introduction of the Entry/Exit System (EES) provides clarity for the travel industry and allows ABTA members to begin advising their customers on the changes. “In the run-up to EES phased implementation it is important there is a clear communication plan from both the EU and the UK Government.” “This is so UK travellers know what’s expected of them and to build confidence in the new process. ABTA will also share relevant materials with our members to help build awareness, including on our dedicated EES and ETIAS webpages. “ “We also encourage EU member states to adopt the EES app, as soon as possible. The app will allow travellers to provide information in advance and cut down EES processing times at airports and ports,” Tanzer added.

ABTA predicts the UK outbound travel market could sell to a £62 billion a year industry by 2030 if it is aided by government support. It detailed the industry’s potential in the 'Outbound travel: a catalyst for jobs, growth and wellbeing' report. ABTA believes there is room to add another £10 billion to the economy, from the current £52 billion. The report was presented at ABTA’s Travel Matters conference. It says one area of focus should be the UK’s regional airports. It says they are especially reliant on the outbound leisure segment, which makes up at least three-quarters of passenger traffic. At East Midlands for example, this proportion is 90%. To accelerate the outbound market, there needs to be the ‘right tax framework’ ABTA said. “This Government has been clear that it wants to secure growth for the economy and towns and cities across the UK. With the Spending Review, we’re urging the Government to capitalise on the growth potential presented by outbound travel,” said ABTA CEO Mark Tanzer. “One of the things that we are highlighting is the opportunity for the UK to be a leader in sustainable travel, recognising that the industry needs to grow in a responsible way.” “We’re also reminding the government that the travel industry is an important facilitator of growth in other sectors.”

ABTA issued a response to the agreement reached between the UK and EU, with a call to do a deal on youth experience arrangements and steps to make travel easier.  The agreement covers a range of travel related issues such as use of e-gates. ABTA strongly welcomes the announcement that the UK and EU are to work on a youth experience scheme, which will be similar to those in place with other countries. The reopening of opportunities for young Brits to work within the EU would be great news for individuals and the UK's outbound travel industry,” said Mark Tanzer, Chief Executive of ABTA. “Since the UK left the EU, we’ve been working hard to highlight the issues faced by UK travel businesses and travellers, and the solutions to address them.” “The agreements around e-gates and pet passports will make it easier for travellers, cutting down on queues and pre-holiday admin. There are of course more border changes coming down the line – including the EU Entry/Exit System planned for October 2025.” “It is vital we continue to see good cooperation between the UK and EU on the introduction of this scheme, to make it as streamlined as possible for UK travellers.” “A big headache travel companies have faced has been the ability to employ UK staff in EU countries to do holiday jobs, such as chalet hosts and tour reps,” Tanzer added. ABTA says UK workers in EU-based travel roles have declined by 69% over recent years. “We've long argued that an agreement between the UK and EU would be mutually beneficial - and that these deals are not akin to freedom of movement in any way. We urge policymakers on both sides to get an agreement in place as quickly as possible.”

  ABTA’s Lisa Kingman, Head of Financial Protection, Paula Macfarlane, Senior Solicitor and Angie Hills, Head of Destinations, have been included in the 2025 Women in Trade Associations Powerlist, which celebrates inspirational women in trade associations.   Launched on Friday 7 March, ahead of International Women’s Day (8 March), the Powerlist recognises those in trade associations who champion their sectors, support colleagues and deliver for their members.   As Head of Financial Protection, Lisa Kingman plays a pivotal role in ensuring ABTA members meet financial protection requirements. By expanding the options available, she has helped members find cost-effective solutions that best suit their businesses. She has also led initiatives to simplify and enhance financial protection processes, making them more flexible and efficient for members.   Lisa commented: “Being included in this Powerlist is a real honour. Financial protection is a fundamental part of ensuring trust in the travel industry and I’m proud to work alongside a dedicated team at ABTA to support our members to get the right arrangements that suit their businesses.”   Paula Macfarlane, Senior Solicitor at ABTA, has provided expert legal guidance to ABTA members for over 24 years. Paula supports ABTA members, translating complex legal issues into practical guidance that helps members run their businesses. She manages the ABTA Code of Conduct, a core part of ABTA’s badge of trust, ensuring high industry standards. Paula has played a key role advocating for members in policy and regulatory development, including the Package Travel Regulations review and the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act.   Paula said: “It’s a privilege to be included in this year’s Powerlist. My role at ABTA allows me to work on some of the most important regulatory and legal matters facing the travel industry, helping members understand what they mean for them and their customers.”   Angie Hills, ABTA Head of Destinations, has been included in the Powerlist this year, further recognition following her recent MBE award in the King’s New Year honours list for services to the travel industry. Angie’s leadership in supporting ABTA members during operational matters and international crises has been invaluable, as has her knowledge, expertise and leadership for over two decades in destination health, safety and security. Read more about her contributions and her MBE.   Angie commented: “At ABTA, we work hard to support our members through the ever-changing landscape of travel, and being named on the Powerlist is a wonderful endorsement of our work to support our members not just during a crisis, but with other important aspects of their business including health, safety and security to support British travellers.”

ABTA is supporting members during the peak booking period through a multi-channel marketing campaign and PR drive. The activities include the launch of ABTA’s Destinations to Watch 2025 report. The report finds 68% of people intend to take a holiday abroad this year and 53% are seeking a break in the UK. People are also looking to explore somewhere new, with 48% wishing to head to a city or resort they’ve not been to before Nearly half (45%) are looking to explore a different country entirely. The purpose of Destinations to Watch is to offer ideas and inspiration to explore lesser-known places or get a new take on a familiar place, ABTA says. The destinations are selected by ABTA experts, reflecting customers’ sentiment and trends. The 10 destinations to watch are: Belize Denmark Hokkaido, Japan Hungary The Islands of the Cote d’Azur, France Le Marche, Italy Malawi Oviedo and more, Spain Quebec, Canada Tasmania, Australia The report can be found at www.abta.com/DestinationsToWatch2025 ABTA’s Travel with Confidence campaign is also in full swing this month, following the initial drive in November. It is encouraging people to book their holidays with an ABTA member now. Social media advertising on Facebook and Instagram has been running since Boxing Day and will continue until the end of February. TikTok advertising will launch in the first week of January. In mid-January, a second set of radio ads will air across Heart Digital Radio, encouraging people to book with an ABTA member. Graeme Buck, ABTA’s Director of Communications said: “We know how important the peak booking period is for our members.” “The Travel with Confidence campaign is designed with that all important peace of mind when travelling. Last year’s campaign reached a wider audience than ever, and we hope to build on that even more.” “We’re pleased to once again launch our Destinations to Watch report, as a way to get people thinking and talking about the trips they may want to take this year.”

Adido, a specialist digital marketing agency has become an ABTA Partner+. ABTA Partner+ status id for companies that have demonstrated a history of engagement with the trade association. They are companies that have created positive connections with ABTA members and can contribute thought-leadership content. Bournemouth based Adido has a team of 20 and specialises in the travel industry, offering services including web design and app development. Their client list includes Simpson Travel, Cosmos, Canadian Affair, Latin Routes, Gap360, Pelorus and Meon Valley Travel. Andy Headington, CEO at Adido, said: "We are delighted to become an ABTA Partner+. It's testament to our hard work and dedication to the industry over the last decade.” Adido's expertise in travel marketing strategy and digital solutions makes it a valuable partner for ABTA members." Claire Biddle, commercial director at ABTA, added: "We are thrilled to recognise Adido with Partner+ status. As a business they have supported members over a number of years, training on different aspects of digital marketing at ABTA's events." With ABTA Partner+ status, Adido will continue to provide its specialist services to the travel industry while participating more actively in ABTA's events. 

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Trade partners will gather in Costa Navarino in Greece for this year’s ABTA Travel Convention. The resort town in the southwest Peloponnese will host the event from 7- 9 October 2024. Navarino Dunes has two five-star hotels, state-of-the-art conference facilities, plus over 20 restaurants and bars. It is also home to a signature golf course, a spa and thalassotherapy centre as well as a variety of sports, outdoor and cultural activities. Details of how to register, along with accommodation and flight options, will be announced soon. “This emerging area of Greece is a brilliant addition to the country’s tourism offering. I know our delegates will thoroughly enjoy experiencing everything the area has to offer,” said ABTA CEO, Mark Tanzer. It has been hailed by Eleni Skarveli, Director, GNTO UK and Ireland Office. "We are absolutely delighted to be the host, deepening our exceptional partnership across all levels,” she said. 

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