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Full list of British Travel Awards 2023 winners including Jet2, P&O Cruises and Wetherspoons

Full list of the British Travel Awards gold winners for 2023 as chosen by the public with more than 1.5 million votes including Jet2, P&O Cruises, Wetherspoons

• 22:01, 28 Nov 2023
• Updated 15:52, 29 Nov 2023

Ready, Jet set, go…for 11 golds to Jet2 and Jet2holidays at the prestigious 2023 British Travel Awards (BTAs).

The Leeds-based sister firms took off with the biggest haul of prizes at the glittering gala night in Battersea Evolution, London, including Best Large Travel Company for Summer Sun Holidays, Winter Sun Holidays, Family Holidays and Luxury Holidays plus Best Airline for Short-haul Flights and Best Airline for Economy Class Travel.

A record 1.56 million public votes were cast for the nation’s benchmark travel industry accolades as UK travelling consumers had their say in 76 award categories covering their 2023 leisure travel experiences and services.

Newmarket Holidays also triumphed, taking home an impressive eight golds in categories such as Best Travel Company for Escorted Group Holiday; Best Touring Holidays and Best for Safari Holidays plus for holidays to destinations including Central/Northern Europe, Sub-Saharan Africa and Canada and USA.

Solmar Villas was next with a sterling seven golds including Best Medium Travel Company for Summer Sun, Winter Sun, Family, Villa and Tailor-Made Holidays.

On the water, P&O took Best Cruise Line for Family Holidays, Hurtigruten won Best Cruise Line for Expedition Voyages, Viking won Best Cruise Line for River Cruise Holidays and Cunard won Best Cruise Line for Ultra-Luxurious Holiday.

Brittany Ferries won Best Medium Travel Company to Western Europe, P&O Ferries took Best Operator for Short Sea/ Mini Cruises,

It’s no secret Brits love a cheeky drink at an airport bar ahead of a stupid o’clock holiday flight and now it’s official - Spoons is our bar venue of choice.

The BTAs had two new categories for 2023 and Wetherspoons claimed Best Airport Retailer for Food and Beverage, while Boots are taking off with Best Airport Retailer for Consumer Goods,

Also in the aviation world, London's Heathrow was voted Best Large UK Airport for Leisure Travel, with East Midlands winning in the medium category.

Best Airline for Low-Cost Flights was easyjet, with Emirates taking Best Airline for Long Haul Flights and Best Airline for Business Class Travel. For the 13th year running APH (Airport Parking & Hotels) won Best Company for Airport Parking.

On the roads, Avis reclaimed the gold for Best Company for Car Hire, Shearings picked up three golds for Best Large Company for Coach Holidays, Best Large Travel Company for Touring Holidays, and Best Large Company for UK Coach/Touring Holidays.

In the medium company category Leger Holidays held on to Best for Coach Holidays and also won Best for Special Interest Holidays. Brightwater Holidays won Best Travel Company for Coach Holidays in the small company category.

In other gold categories, Travelzoo won Best Travel website for Travel Deals; Hays Travel won three Golds for Best National Travel Retailer, Best Agency for Cruise Holidays and Best Retailer of Forex/Travel Money and in a surprise twist, nominated for their first ever British Travel Awards, Lapland Specialist tour operator Santa Claus Trips was voted Best Small Travel Company for Family Holidays and Best Small Travel Company to Central/Northern Europe.

BTA director of events and partnerships Lorraine Barnes Burton said: “This year was a record in the 15-year history of the British Travel Awards with more than one and a half million votes.

“My sincere thanks go to the readers who took the trouble to vote and ultimately it is you, the travelling public, who decide the winners by voting for the travel companies you consider the best in the business.

“When you see the British Travel Awards winner logos on brochures, websites and social media posts you can be sure you are travelling with tried and tested travel companies - as voted for by you, the all-important travelling public.”

Since 2008 the British Travel Awards has been polling public opinion on leisure travel companies and the award accreditations are determined solely by the number of public votes cast after security software has flagged for investigation any spurious or suspect voting activity.

The 2023 voting period ran between June 19 and October 1 and 420,453 voters cast 1,561,370 votes.

All BTA voters were entered in a draw for a bumper travel prize jackpot worth around £47,700, with cruises, villa holidays, ferry crossings, holiday vouchers, Europe trips, airport hotels and parking, staycations and more to be won.

*Reach plc, with more than 130 national and regional news brands across both print and online including the Mirror website, is the official media partner of the 2023 BTAs.

*A full list winners also with silver and bronze awards is at britishtravelawards.com

The 2023 British Travel Awards gold winners

• Best Small Travel Company to Hellenic Europe - Abercrombie & Kent
• Best Small Travel Company to the Far East/Central Asia - Abercrombie & Kent
• Best Small Travel Company for Arts & Culture Holidays - ACE Cultural Tours
• Best Small Travel Company to the Indian Ocean - Affordable Luxury Travel
• Best Small Travel Company to Southern Asia - Affordable Luxury Travel
• Best Small Travel Company for All - Inclusive Holidays - Affordable Luxury Travel
• Best Small Travel Company to the U.S.A. - American Sky
• Best Company for Airport Parking - APH (Airport Parking & Hotels)
• Best Small Travel Company to Iberia/Macaronesia - Archipelago Choice Ltd
• Best Company for Holiday Car Hire - Avis
• Best Medium Travel Company to the Caribbean/Central America - Blue Bay Travel
• Best Medium Travel Company to Southeast Asia - Blue Bay Travel
• Best Medium Travel Company for All - Inclusive Holidays - Blue Bay Travel
• Best Small Company for UK Family Holidays - Bluestone Wales
• Best Small Travel Company to Italy/Western Med. Islands - Bookings For You
• Best Airport Retailer for Consumer Goods - Boots
• Best Small Travel Company for Coach Holidays - Brightwater Holidays
• Best Medium Travel Company to Western Europe - Brittany Ferries
• Best Small Travel Company for Luxury Holidays - Ciconia Exclusive Journeys
• Best Large Travel Company for Ski/Winter Sports Holidays - Crystal Ski Holidays
• Best Cruise Line for Ultra - Luxury Holidays - Cunard
• Best Small Travel Company to East/Southeast Europe - Cyprus Paradise
• Best Medium UK Airport for Leisure Travel - East Midlands
• Best Airline for Low Cost Flights - EasyJet
• Best Airline for Long - haul Flights - Emirates
• Best Airline for Business Class Travel - Emirates
• Best Large Travel Company to the Middle East/North Africa - Emirates Holidays
• Best Large Travel Company to the Indian Ocean - Emirates Holidays
• Best Large Travel Company to Western Europe - Eurostar
• Best Medium Travel Company for Adventure Holidays - Exodus Travels
• Best Small Company for UK Coach/Touring Holidays - Family Outings North East
• Best Small Travel Company for Activity/Sports Holidays - GolfKings
• Best Small Travel Company for Sports Tours Holidays - GolfKings
• Best Medium Travel Company for Rail Holidays - Great Rail Journeys
• Best Small Travel Company to Sub - Saharan Africa - Hayes & Jarvis
• Best Small Travel Company to Australasia/Oceania - Hayes & Jarvis
• Best Small Travel Company for Special Occasions Holidays - Hayes & Jarvis
• Best Small Travel Company for Safari Holidays - Hayes & Jarvis
• Best National Travel Retailer - Hays Travel
• Best Travel Agency for Cruise Holidays - Hays Travel
• Best Retailer for Forex/Travel Money - Hays Travel
• Best Small Company for UK Short Breaks - Holiday Extras
• Best Hotel Brand for Midscale Accommodation - Holiday Inn
• Best Cruise Line for Expedition Voyages - Hurtigruten
• Best Large Travel Company for Special Interest Holidays - Inghams
• Best Large Travel Company for Activity/Sports Holidays - Inghams
• Best Medium Travel Company to Hellenic Europe - Ionian & Aegean Island Holidays
• Best Small Travel Company for Villa Holidays - Ionian & Aegean Island Holidays
• Best Small Travel Company for Weddings & Honeymoons - Ionian Weddings
• Best Airline for Short - haul Flights - Jet2.com
• Best Airline for Economy Class Travel - Jet2.com
• Best Large Travel Company to East/Southeast Europe - Jet2.com/Jet2holidays
• Best Large Travel Company to Iberia/Macaronesia - Jet2.com/Jet2holidays
• Best Large Travel Company to Italy/Western Med. Islands - Jet2.com/Jet2holidays
• Best Large Travel Company to Hellenic Europe - Jet2.com/Jet2holidays
• Best Large Travel Company for Summer Sun Holidays - Jet2.com/Jet2holidays
• Best Large Travel Company for Winter Sun Holidays - Jet2.com/Jet2holidays
• Best Large Travel Company for Family Holidays - Jet2.com/Jet2holidays
• Best Large Travel Company for Luxury Holidays - Jet2.com/Jet2holidays
• Best Travel Website for Flight Booking - Jet2.com/Jet2holidays
• Best Small Travel Company to South America - Journey Latin America
• Best Medium Travel Company for Singles Holidays - Just You
• Best Medium Travel Company to the Indian Ocean - Kuoni
• Best Medium Travel Company to Australasia/Oceania - Kuoni
• Best Medium Travel Company for Luxury Holidays - Kuoni
• Best Medium Travel Company for Weddings & Honeymoons - Kuoni
• Best Medium Travel Company for Special Occasions Holidays - Kuoni
• Best Medium Travel Company for Coach Holidays - Leger
• Best Medium Travel Company for Special Interest Holidays - Leger
• Best Large UK Airport for Leisure Travel - London Heathrow
• Best Small Company for UK Holiday Home Rentals - Luxury Coastal
• Best Small Travel Company to the Caribbean/Central America - Luxury Worldwide Collection
• Best Medium Company for UK Family Holidays - Lyons Holiday Parks
• Best Medium Company for UK Parks & Lodges Holidays - Lyons Holiday Parks
• Best Small Travel Company to Southeast Asia - Mabuhay Travel
• Best Small Travel Company to Canada - My Canada Trips
• Best Small Travel Company for Tailor - Made Holidays - My Canada Trips
• Best Small Travel Company for Touring Holidays - My Canada Trips
• Best Medium Company for UK Coach/Touring Holidays - National Holidays
• Best Medium Company for UK Holiday Home Rentals - National Trust Holidays
• Best Small Travel Company for Wildlife & Nature Holidays - Naturetrek
• Best Medium Travel Company for Activity/Sports Holidays - Neilson Active Holidays
• Best Medium Travel Company for Ski/Winter Sports Holidays - Neilson Active Holidays
• Best Medium Travel Company to Central/Northern Europe - Newmarket Holidays
• Best Medium Travel Company to Italy/Western Med. Islands - Newmarket Holidays
• Best Medium Travel Company to Sub - Saharan Africa - Newmarket Holidays
• Best Medium Travel Company to Canada - Newmarket Holidays
• Best Medium Travel Company to the U.S.A. - Newmarket Holidays
• Best Medium Travel Company for Escorted Group Holidays - Newmarket Holidays
• Best Medium Travel Company for Touring Holidays - Newmarket Holidays
• Best Medium Travel Company for Safari Holidays - Newmarket Holidays
• Best Small Company for UK Parks & Lodges Holidays - North Lakes Lodges
• Best Small Travel Company to Western Europe - Osprey Holidays
• Best Cruise Line for Family Holidays - P&O Cruises
• Best Cruise Line for No - fly Cruise Holidays - P&O Cruises
• Best Operator for Short Sea/Mini Cruises - P&O Ferries
• Best Large Company for UK Family Holidays - Parkdean Resorts
• Best Large Company for UK Parks & Lodges Holidays - Parkdean Resorts
• Best Large Company for UK Short Breaks - Parkdean Resorts
• Best Hotel Brand for Tourist Accommodation - Premier Inn
• Best Hotel Brand for Upscale Accommodation - Radisson
• Best Hotel Brand for Luxury Accommodation - Radisson Blu
• Best Small Travel Company to the Middle East/North Africa - Red Sea Holidays
• Best Large Travel Company to Sub - Saharan Africa - Riviera Travel
• Best Large Travel Company for Arts & Culture Holidays - Riviera Travel
• Best Large Travel Company for Singles Holidays - Saga
• Best Large Travel Company for Escorted Group Holidays - Saga
• Best Large Travel Company for Rail Holidays - Saga
• Best Large Travel Company for Special Occasions Holidays - Saga
• Best Cruise Line for Luxury Holidays - Saga
• Best Hotel Brand for All - Inclusive Resorts - Sandals & Beaches Resorts
• Best Small Travel Company to Central/Northern Europe - Santa Claus Trips
• Best Small Travel Company for Family Holidays - Santa Claus Trips
• Best Large Travel Company for Touring Holidays - Shearings
• Best Large Travel Company for Coach Holidays - Shearings
• Best Large Company for UK Coach/Touring Holidays - Shearings
• Best Cruise Line for Ultra - Small/Boutique Holidays - Silversea
• Best Small Travel Company for Ski/Winter Sports Holidays - Ski Safari
• Best Travel Website for Price Comparison - Skyscanner
• Best Medium Travel Company to East/Southeast Europe - Solmar Villas
• Best Medium Travel Company to Iberia/Macaronesia - Solmar Villas
• Best Medium Travel Company for Summer Sun Holidays - Solmar Villas
• Best Medium Travel Company for Winter Sun Holidays - Solmar Villas
• Best Medium Travel Company for Family Holidays - Solmar Villas
• Best Medium Travel Company for Villa Holidays - Solmar Villas
• Best Medium Travel Company for Tailor - Made Holidays - Solmar Villas
• Best Small Travel Company for Singles Holidays - Solos Holidays
• Best Company for Travel Insurance - Staysure Travel Insurance
• Best Online/Call Centre Travel Retailer - Stewart Travel
• Best Large Company for UK Holiday Home Rentals - Sykes Holiday Cottages
• Best Small UK Airport for Leisure Travel - Teesside International Airport
• Best Small Travel Company for Adventure Holidays - The Bucket List Company
• Best Small Travel Company for Rail Holidays - The Railway Touring Company
• Best Medium Travel Company to South America - Titan Travel
• Best Medium Travel Company to Southern Asia - Titan Travel
• Best Medium Travel Company for Wildlife & Nature Holidays - Titan Travel
• Best Large Travel Company to Central/Northern Europe - Trailfinders
• Best Large Travel Company to Southeast Asia - Trailfinders
• Best Large Travel Company to Australasia/Oceania - Trailfinders
• Best Large Travel Company for Tailor - Made Holidays - Trailfinders
• Best Large Travel Company for Safari Holidays - Trailfinders
• Best Medium Travel Company for Sports Tours Holidays - Travel Center
• Best Small Travel Company for Escorted Group Holidays - Travel Department
• Best Small Travel Company for Special Interest Holidays - Travel Editions
• Best Travel Website for Accommodation Booking - Travel Republic
• Best Medium Travel Company to the Middle East/North Africa - Travel Talk Tours
• Best Medium Travel Company for Arts & Culture Holidays - Travel Talk Tours
• Best Large Travel Company to Canada - Travelbag
• Best Large Travel Company to Southern Asia - Travelbag
• Best Travel Website for Travel Deals - Travelzoo
• Best Large Travel Company for All-Inclusive Holidays - TUI
• Best Large Travel Company for Weddings & Honeymoons - TUI
• Best Medium Company for UK Short Breaks - ukBreakaways
• Best Cruise Line for River Cruise Holidays - Viking
• Best Large Travel Company to the U.S.A. - Virgin Holidays
• Best Medium Travel Company to the Far East/Central Asia - Wendy Wu Tours
• Best Airport Retailer for Food & Beverages - Wetherspoons
• Best Ferry Operator for Routes from/to UK Ports - Wightlink

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Success at News UK's annual Travel Awards

Latest news.

Twenty awards were handed out at the News UK Travel Awards last night (Tuesday).

The awards, now in their fourth year and including The Sun for the first time, were held in Las Vegas.

The accolades heralded the best destinations, hotels and travel companies as voted by readers.

Winners were:

THE TIMES/THE SUNDAY TIMES/THE SUNDAY TIMES TRAVEL MAGAZINE AWARDS

• Best airline – British Airways
• Best city – London
• Best country – Italy
• Best escorted tour operator – Great Rail Journeys
• Best European and UK hotel – Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons
• Best long haul hotel – Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort, St Lucia
• Best luxury tour operator – Audley
• Best ocean cruise operator –  P&O Cruises
• Best river cruise operator – Viking River Cruises
• Best specialist tour operator – Voyages Jules Verne
• Best tour operator – Trailfinders
• The Times travel editor’s award – Scott Dunn
• The Sunday Times Travel Magazine editor’s award – Austin, Texas
• The Sunday Times travel editor’s Award – Paris, France

THE SUN AWARDS

• Best attraction – Walt Disney World, Orlando
• Best cruise company or cruise operator – Royal Caribbean
• Best flight or hotel booking site – Booking.com
• Best tour operator or travel company – Virgin Holidays
• Best UK operator – Park Resorts
• The Sun travel editor’s award – On the Beach holidays

• 17 Apr 2024 Virgin Radio UK announces new weekend schedule
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• 25 Mar 2024 Tracy Hart appointed as Director of Retail and Wholesale
• 21 Mar 2024 CMA CLEARS NEWS UK & DMG MEDIA TO COMBINE PRINT…
• 20 Mar 2024 The Sun launches Never Mind The Ballots

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Greece a Big Winner at News UK Travel Awards 2023

(L-R) Greek National Tourism Organization (GNTO) UK & Ireland branch Head Eleni Skarveli with The Sun Chief Editor Lisa Minot. Photo source: GNTO.

Greece won the “ Best Holiday Destination in the World ” award at the recent News UK Travel Awards 2023 ceremony.

Voted for by readers and travel editors of The Sun, Greece topped the Best Holiday Destination in the World category with the US and Spain following as runner-ups.

Moreover, following the awards announcement, an online poll by The Sun found 55.5 percent of the public agreeing that “Greece is amazing”.

Held in Istanbul, Turkey, the News UK Travel Awards 2023 ceremony was attended by UK travel industry executives, journalists from The Times and The Sun, and travel influencers and decision makers.

Source: The Sun.

Greece was represented by the Greek National Tourism Organization (GNTO) UK & Ireland branch Head Eleni Skarveli , who accepted the award. During her acceptance speech, Skarveli made special reference to the locals of Rhodes and the unique hospitality they offered the island’s visitors during last July’s devastating wildfire.

UK is one of Greece’s most important tourism markets. According to recent data by the Bank of Greece (BoG) , in the first seven months (January-July) of the year, inbound travel from the UK increased by 3.2 percent compared to the same period last year, reaching 2.1 million travelers .

The News UK Travel Awards are voted for by the public and are one of the most prestigious travel awards in the UK. Among this year’s award winners, were companies such as Jet2 , Emirates , Royal Caribbean and destinations including Slovenia , Italy and Oman .

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Voyage of achievement: the uk travel awards 2023 by business awards uk spotlights the pioneers of the travel industry.

Halifax, West Yorkshire, United Kingdom--(Newsfile Corp. - June 20, 2023) - Business Awards UK has announced the winners and finalists in the 2023 Travel Awards , a celebration recognising the efforts and triumphs of businesses that are transcending boundaries, innovating customer experiences, and crafting unforgettable journeys in the vibrant landscape of the travel industry.

The UK Travel Awards 2023

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/9032/170679_3f15ac6c34586aa7_001full.jpg

Business Awards UK Travel Awards 2023 Winners

The Jacksonheim Boutique - Travel Agency Retailer of the Year

Cruise Nation - Best Cruise Retailer

Actually Group - Best Newcomer Travel Company, Best Travel Company - UK Breaks, Best Travel Company - Family Holidays, Best Travel Company - Summer Holidays

PlainSailing.com - Best Travel Company - Sailing Holidays

HotelGyms.com - Best Travel Company - Specialist Holidays

GolfMatesTravel - Best Travel Company - Touring Holidays

Tourasco Group Ltd - Best Travel Company - Winter Holidays

Londonist DMC - Best Travel Marketing Campaign

Hot Source Creative - Best Travel Website, Travel Blog of the Year, Best Travel Company - City & Short Breaks

Source Travel - Best Use of Social Media - Travel

Easy Avenues Limited - Business Travel Company of the Year

Wanderlux - Independent Travel Retailer of the Year

Journey Hospitality - Innovation in Travel Award

Business Awards UK Travel Awards 2023 Individual Award Winners

Oliver Maxfield, Qsensor Ltd - Travel Retailer Rising Star Award

Business Awards UK Travel Awards 2023 Finalists

Journey Hospitality - Best Newcomer Travel Company

Hot Source Creative - Best Newcomer Travel Company, Innovation in Travel Award, Best Travel Marketing Campaign

The Jacksonheim Boutique - Best Travel Company - City & Short Breaks

Tourasco Group Ltd - Best Travel Company - Family Holidays, Best Travel Company - Touring Holidays, Independent Travel Retailer of the Year, Best Luxury Travel Company, Business Travel Company of the Year

HotelGyms.com - Best Travel Company - Summer Holidays

PlainSailing.com - Best Travel Company - Summer Holidays, Best Travel Company - Specialist Holidays

Qsensor Ltd - Best Travel Website

Tuned In Travel - Best Use of Social Media - Travel, Best Travel Company - UK Breaks, Best Travel Company - Touring Holidays

Gateway Travel - Boutique Travel Retailer of the Year

Actually Group - Innovation in Travel Award

A Luxury Travel Blog - Travel Blog of the Year

Globe Cruiser International Ltd - Travel Retailer Rising Star Award

The UK Travel Awards 2023 served as an impressive showcase of the advancements achieved within the travel industry, highlighting the enduring spirit of exploration and adventure in the United Kingdom. The Company looks forward to the extraordinary business journeys that lie ahead and the further accomplishments of the dedicated individuals who continue to pave the way for unforgettable travel experiences.

Contact Information: Mark Byrne, Business Awards UK [email protected] 44(0)1422 771042

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/170679

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Let`s get social, honouring innovation and excellence: uk travel awards 2023 recognises pioneers of the travel industry.

Last Updated on: 22nd November 2023, 08:07 am

Business Awards UK has revealed the winners and finalists of the 2023 Travel Awards , a prestigious event that applauds the efforts and achievements of businesses pushing boundaries, revolutionising customer experiences, and creating remarkable journeys in the dynamic landscape of the travel industry.

The esteemed winners of the Business Awards UK Travel Awards 2023 include:

• The Jacksonheim Boutique – Travel Agency Retailer of the Year
• Cruise Nation – Best Cruise Retailer
• Actually Group – Best Newcomer Travel Company, Best Travel Company – UK Breaks, Best Travel Company – Family Holidays, Best Travel Company – Summer Holidays
• PlainSailing.com – Best Travel Company – Sailing Holidays
• HotelGyms.com – Best Travel Company – Specialist Holidays
• GolfMatesTravel – Best Travel Company – Touring Holidays
• Tourasco Group Ltd – Best Travel Company – Winter Holidays
• Londonist DMC – Best Travel Marketing Campaign
• Hot Source Creative – Best Travel Website, Travel Blog of the Year, Best Travel Company – City & Short Breaks
• Source Travel – Best Use of Social Media – Travel
• Easy Avenues Limited – Business Travel Company of the Year
• Wanderlux – Independent Travel Retailer of the Year
• Journey Hospitality – Innovation in Travel Award

In addition, the Business Awards UK Travel Awards 2023 recognised individual award winners, including Oliver Maxfield from Qsensor Ltd, who received the Travel Retailer Rising Star Award.

The event also highlighted finalists who demonstrated remarkable achievements in various categories, such as Best Newcomer Travel Company, Best Travel Marketing Campaign, Best Luxury Travel Company, and more.

The UK Travel Awards 2023 showcased the remarkable advancements within the travel industry and celebrated the enduring spirit of exploration and adventure in the United Kingdom. We eagerly anticipate the extraordinary business journeys that lie ahead and the continued accomplishments of the dedicated individuals shaping unforgettable travel experiences.

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Eleven Sports Media and PSV Eindhoven Introduce Groundbreaking Local Business Programme to Mainland Europe

Uk businesses urged to donate unused laptops during refugee week 2023 to assist refugees and people experiencing homelessness, exploring the world of beautiful bed sheets at linens & hutch, hro today recognizes workspend for third year in a row with msp baker’s dozen list, new research shows 69% of american pet owners are “nose blind”, stanislav kondrashov receives well-deserved recognition for outstanding career.

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Winner in the British Travel Awards 2023

Travel department | 29 november 2023.

We’re delighted that Travel Department have won for the second year in a row at the  prestigious British Travel Awards 2023 for ‘ Best Escorted Group Holiday Travel Company. ’  We have been providing our customers with expertly crafted travel experiences to some of the best destinations in Europe and across the world for over 25 years. We take care of just about everything on our guided holidays, from planning the itineraries, flights, accommodation, transfers and expert local guides. You can easily join one of our guided tours, to discover some of the most spectacular destinations worldwide as we offer departures from Belfast , Edinburgh , Glasgow , and London .

From all of us at Travel Department, we really want to thank all of our lovely customers and friends who have helped us achieve this incredible accolade in the British Travel Awards!

The British Travel Awards is the largest consumer voted awards programme in the UK travel industry and the ceremony took place on November 28th 2023 to celebrate the resilience of the travel industry and recognise the best UK travel companies and tour operators.

BTA director of events and partnerships, Lorraine Barnes Burton, said: “This year saw more than one and a half million votes cast to determine the winners of the 2023 and competition was fierce. Travel Department is therefore to be sincerely congratulated on the achievement in winning Best Escorted Group Holiday Travel Company . Ultimately it is the travelling public who decide the winners by voting for the travel companies they consider the best in the business. The British Travel Awards is the largest awards programme in the UK and to win is truly an achievement.”

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Voyage of Achievement: The UK Travel Awards 2023 by Business Awards UK Spotlights the Pioneers of the Travel Industry

Halifax, West Yorkshire, United Kingdom--(Newsfile Corp. - June 20, 2023) - Business Awards UK has announced the winners and finalists in the 2023 Travel Awards , a celebration recognising the efforts and triumphs of businesses that are transcending boundaries, innovating customer experiences, and crafting unforgettable journeys in the vibrant landscape of the travel industry.

The UK Travel Awards 2023

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/9032/170679_3f15ac6c34586aa7_001full.jpg

Business Awards UK Travel Awards 2023 Winners

• The Jacksonheim Boutique - Travel Agency Retailer of the Year
• Cruise Nation - Best Cruise Retailer
• Actually Group - Best Newcomer Travel Company, Best Travel Company - UK Breaks, Best Travel Company - Family Holidays, Best Travel Company - Summer Holidays
• PlainSailing.com - Best Travel Company - Sailing Holidays
• HotelGyms.com - Best Travel Company - Specialist Holidays
• GolfMatesTravel - Best Travel Company - Touring Holidays
• Tourasco Group Ltd - Best Travel Company - Winter Holidays
• Londonist DMC - Best Travel Marketing Campaign
• Hot Source Creative - Best Travel Website, Travel Blog of the Year, Best Travel Company - City & Short Breaks
• Source Travel - Best Use of Social Media - Travel
• Easy Avenues Limited - Business Travel Company of the Year
• Wanderlux - Independent Travel Retailer of the Year
• Journey Hospitality - Innovation in Travel Award

Business Awards UK Travel Awards 2023 Individual Award Winners

• Oliver Maxfield, Qsensor Ltd - Travel Retailer Rising Star Award

Business Awards UK Travel Awards 2023 Finalists

• Journey Hospitality - Best Newcomer Travel Company
• Hot Source Creative - Best Newcomer Travel Company, Innovation in Travel Award, Best Travel Marketing Campaign
• The Jacksonheim Boutique - Best Travel Company - City & Short Breaks
• Tourasco Group Ltd - Best Travel Company - Family Holidays, Best Travel Company - Touring Holidays, Independent Travel Retailer of the Year, Best Luxury Travel Company, Business Travel Company of the Year
• HotelGyms.com - Best Travel Company - Summer Holidays
• PlainSailing.com - Best Travel Company - Summer Holidays, Best Travel Company - Specialist Holidays
• Qsensor Ltd - Best Travel Website
• Tuned In Travel - Best Use of Social Media - Travel, Best Travel Company - UK Breaks, Best Travel Company - Touring Holidays
• Gateway Travel - Boutique Travel Retailer of the Year
• Actually Group - Innovation in Travel Award
• A Luxury Travel Blog - Travel Blog of the Year
• Globe Cruiser International Ltd - Travel Retailer Rising Star Award

The UK Travel Awards 2023 served as an impressive showcase of the advancements achieved within the travel industry, highlighting the enduring spirit of exploration and adventure in the United Kingdom. The Company looks forward to the extraordinary business journeys that lie ahead and the further accomplishments of the dedicated individuals who continue to pave the way for unforgettable travel experiences.

Contact Information: Mark Byrne, Business Awards UK [email protected] 44(0)1422 771042

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/170679

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The 2023 UK Travel Awards: Celebrating the Stars of the Travel Industry

Business awards uk.

• June 20, 2023

The spotlight was shone on the trailblazers of the travel industry at our UK Travel Awards 2023 in May. Our inaugural travel awards proved to be extremely popular, and provided an ideal platform for those who have innovatively shaped the travel landscape, paving the way for unforgettable experiences and journeys.

The Leading Lights of UK Travel

What an impressive list of winners we had this year! Taking home the accolade of ‘Travel Agency Retailer of the Year’ was The Jacksonheim Boutique , which offers luxury retreats in the heart of Manchester City Centre, catering to both holidaymakers and business travellers. Offering the exclusivity of a boutique apartment blended with the convenience of hotel-like services, their accommodation reflects the welcoming and laid-back nature of Manchester itself. The Jacksonheim Boutique open their doors to guests from all walks of life, ensuring an inclusive environment for all, with a commitment to deliver an award-winning, luxury stay backed by impeccable service, irrespective of the duration of your visit.

The Jacksonheim Boutique

Industry titans Cruise Nation sailed away with ‘Best Cruise Retailer’, with the judges particularly interested in their Smart Packages, which are available for booking online or via their UK-based call centre, epitomising true value and attention to travellers’ needs, in a sea of comparison websites. Expertly blending land and cruise itineraries, they assist travellers in designing unique holiday experiences. Each package includes a luxury cruise, flights from regional airports, and hotel stays, offering an all-inclusive service that prioritises customer satisfaction and convenience.

Emerging as a powerhouse was the Actually Group , sweeping up awards for ‘Best Newcomer Travel Company’, ‘Best Travel Company – UK Breaks’, ‘Best Travel Company – Family Holidays’, and ‘Best Travel Company – Summer Holidays’. Actually Group brings five-star luxury into the heart of the UK’s most picturesque regions through their distinctive lodge experiences. Their lodges, while varied in style and unique in interior, are meticulously crafted to provide the utmost comfort to guests. The lodges masterfully blend contemporary design with welcoming interiors, epitomising elegance and luxury.

The company prioritises both customer satisfaction and environmental sustainability, embedding these principles at the core of their operations. Actually Group prides itself on its proactive environmental measures, constructing lodges that are not just sustainable, but also built to stand the test of time.

PlainSailing.com , the choice for sea lovers, was awarded ‘Best Travel Company – Sailing Holidays’. Founded in 2014, PlainSailing.com is a respected Manchester-based yacht and catamaran charter expert operating in Greece, Croatia, the Med, and the Caribbean. Offering a variety of sailing experiences, they leverage their firsthand regional knowledge to provide expert sailing advice.

Born from a desire to streamline boat chartering, PlainSailing.com has pioneered digital solutions in the industry, ensuring a simple, efficient booking process. They collaborate exclusively with top-tier professional boat operators, prioritising quality and safety, offering personalised customer service, assigning a dedicated expert to each client’s sailing holiday. PlainSailing.com is also committed to environmental sustainability, operating as a carbon-positive business and actively supporting several environmental and community projects. They exemplify ethical business practices.

As for those looking for a healthy getaway, HotelGyms clinched ‘Best Travel Company – Specialist Holidays’. Founded to address the challenge of maintaining health and fitness while travelling, HotelGyms.com stands out due to its dedication to optimising the traveller experience.

The platform offers detailed, quality information about hotel gym facilities, equipment, and conditions, providing travellers the necessary data to make informed decisions about their stay. Their mission is to enable everyone to continue their fitness routines while travelling. To achieve this, they focus not only on the variety of equipment but also on the quality and maintenance of the machines. HotelGyms.com introduces a unique feature – the GymFactor, a sophisticated tool that incorporates years of fitness geek experience and thousands of hotel gym reviews.

This state-of-the-art tool helps travellers make knowledgeable choices about their hotel gym experiences. Not only does HotelGyms.com equip travellers with better information, but it also allows direct booking on their platform, thereby ensuring a healthier, well-rounded travel experience.

GolfMatesTravel swung into victory for ‘Best Travel Company – Touring Holidays’. GolfMatesTravel boasts an impressive 20-year history of expertise in the golf travel sector, demonstrated by the outstanding reviews they’ve received from satisfied golfers worldwide. As a member of Protected Travel Services, they offer financially guaranteed holidays, ensuring total peace of mind for their clients. Their standing in the golf travel business is further exemplified by their affiliation with the International Association of Golf Tour Operators. Thanks to their solid relationships with a broad network of suppliers, GolfMatesTravel provides an unrivalled knowledge of all destinations, promising a unique and superior golfing experience to their global community of GolfMates.

Winter enthusiasts had their champion in Tourasco Group Ltd , bagging ‘Best Travel Company – Winter Holidays’. TourASCO Holidays Group (THG), an affiliate of Inteletravel and a part of the Tourasco Group Ltd, has progressed from its beginnings as a family-owned travel agency to a premier global provider of business and leisure travel. TourASCO, distinctively combining online travel services with offline regional companies, signifies a new epoch in the travel industry. This pioneering travel marketplace primarily links independent and luxury travel agents with clients seeking tailor-made, meticulously planned winter holidays.

Despite the growing trend of self-planned holidays, TourASCO provides a service utilising AI-powered travel planning that ensures an exceptional customer experience, catering to diverse lifestyle needs, budgets, and interests. With TourASCO, clients can savour expertly curated itineraries and the convenience of having every detail attended to, thereby enhancing their winter holiday experience.

Londonist DMC , the Central London-based student accommodation agency, took the award for ‘Best Travel Marketing Campaign’ by distinguishing itself with the dynamic ‘Move with Londonist’ marketing campaign in 2022. The campaign, guided by Socrates’ wisdom and Sydney J. Harris’ educational outlook, targeted 18-34-year-old students heading to London’s universities. Their four-point experience concept, encompassing panoramic views from the Shard, a thrilling climb up at the O2, a drive in a luxury car, and historic palace visits, broke the mould and pushed students beyond their comfort zones.

The campaign was a triumph, and beyond advertising metrics, boosted their excellent Trustpilot rating and culminated in a Best British Business award by the Business Reporter.

Moreover, it propelled the growth of their partnership department and led to the creation of a novel student portal, broadening students’ horizons with a wealth of local activities. Brand recognition surged, and room capacity doubled, cementing Londonist DMC’s position as a transformative force in the student travel industry.

Hot Source Creative walked away with multiple honours, including ‘Best Travel Website’, ‘Travel Blog of the Year’, and ‘Best Travel Company – City & Short Breaks’. The successful marketing campaign for DiscoverJQ.co.uk, positioned in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter, distinguished itself as a lifeline for local businesses amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. The innovative digital platform not only celebrated the history and allure of the area but also bolstered tourism and promoted local commerce.

Launching during a critical period, this commendable initiative combined social media marketing, email outreach, and paid advertising, amassing an impressive 10k followers across various channels. Through strategic partnerships with local businesses and tourism organisations, they amplified their reach, engaging users and inspiring exploration of the Quarter.

The campaign’s impact was such that it became the official tourism partner for the Jewellery Quarter, eventually merging with another JQ tourism company, thereby becoming the city’s sole tourism identity. Following this success, other towns have sought to emulate the campaign, leading to its expansion. They also launched a similar platform for Worcester/Worcestershire, further strengthening local businesses and invigorating UK tourism.

For those maximising the power of the digital realm, Source Travel was recognised as the ‘Best Use of Social Media – Travel’. Source Travel are transformative travel consultants redefining the holiday experience through a dynamic blend of social media savvy and client-oriented service. They’ve reimagined holiday planning as a tailor-made, hassle-free experience, all built around the traveller. Their all-encompassing service covers everything from flights and accommodations to one-of-a-kind itineraries, all impeccably organised so you can relax into your holiday dream.

What sets them apart is their mastery of social media. Their Facebook and Instagram pages come alive with captivating imagery and engaging content, drawing in followers and fostering a sense of community. Their responsive, interactive social media presence ensures they’re always within easy reach for any holiday amendments or queries.

The ‘Business Travel Company of the Year’ title went to Easy Avenues Limited , who – after the industry-wide slow start – kicked into high gear in March, continually accelerating thereafter. By onboarding business travel experts who had been hit by the pandemic and intensifying training in 2021, they laid solid foundations for 2022.

With the new year, they bravely launched five new IT platforms, working tirelessly round the clock to adapt to the revolutionary processes. Embracing an array of new systems, from Client Profile and GDS to Mid Office and Client Reporting, they demonstrated an admirable ability to rise to any challenge. Thanks to their outstanding team effort, they surpassed their ambitious turnover target, attracted valuable new clients, expanded into larger offices, and celebrated their achievements with a fabulous Motown Party in London.

Wanderlux earned the title of ‘Independent Travel Retailer of the Year’. This trailblazing travel design service was established in 2018 by CEO Rebecca, following her 13-year stint in the travel sector. Overcoming personal hurdles, Rebecca and Wanderlux have grown exponentially, specialising in crafting bespoke experiences for ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNWIs).

Wanderlux is renowned for its out-of-this-world expeditions; clients can find themselves socialising with astronauts in unique partnerships formed during the pandemic in 2021. The maiden expedition, a private yacht journey to the Last Antarctica Total Solar Eclipse, featured Astronaut and Aquanaut Nicole Stott and wildlife photographer Roie Galitz.

Beyond creating luxurious, innovative travel experiences, Rebecca’s vision also focuses on the emotional resonance of travel and championing our planet. Bookings include a financial contribution to global projects, and Wanderlux is a proud founding member of The Conscious Travel Foundation.

Finally, Journey Hospitality was recognised for its ‘Innovation in Travel’. Journey Hospitality has reinvented itself from a digital marketing agency to a cutting-edge hospitality software provider, all thanks to its pioneering platform, onejourney ®.

This platform, the first all-in-one ecommerce solution for hotels, empowers establishments to sell everything online, maximising each transaction’s value and boosting direct revenue.

Historically, independent and boutique hotels struggled to compete with digital-first online travel agents (OTAs) and big brands. Journey Hospitality saw this as an opportunity to enhance the direct booking experience and offer more to guests, a service OTAs can’t match.

onejourney® combines all elements of a hotel stay into a fully-bookable, scalable, and user-friendly online environment, mimicking a retail experience. From rooms, dining, and spa services to gift vouchers and events, everything becomes part of one seamless shopping experience. Partnering with Stripe has even enabled digital wallets, delayed payments, and partial pre–payments.

Hotels utilising onejourney® have reported boosted conversion rates, increased revenue, reduced inbound calls, improved cash flow, and reduced OTA dependency. Feedback from hotels has been overwhelmingly positive, echoing onejourney®’s role as a game-changing tool in the hospitality industry.

As for individual glory, Oliver Maxfield from Qsensor Ltd was bestowed with the ‘Travel Retailer Rising Star Award’, founding the company that developed an innovative tool specifically designed for time-conscious travellers. This platform aids travellers by offering real-time updates on airport security queue wait times at over 220 global airports, including major hubs such as Heathrow, Frankfurt, and Atlanta.

After months of meticulous research, ideation, and validation, Qsensor was officially established in October. By Christmas, a working prototype was available to a select group, and the minimum viable product (MVP) was launched by Valentine’s Day, gaining over 2K users within the first fortnight.

A Round of Applause for the Finalists

While the spotlight was on the winners, let’s not forget the incredible finalists who contributed to an outstanding year in the UK travel industry.

Companies like Journey Hospitality and Hot Source Creative were recognised as potential ‘Best Newcomer Travel Companies’. Meanwhile, The Jacksonheim Boutique and Tourasco Group Ltd caught the judges’ eyes in categories such as ‘Best Travel Company – City & Short Breaks’, ‘Best Travel Company – Family Holidays’, and ‘Best Travel Company – Touring Holidays’.

Other honourable mentions include HotelGyms.com and PlainSailing.com for ‘Best Travel Company – Summer Holidays’, Qsensor Ltd for ‘Best Travel Website’, and Tuned In Travel for ‘Best Use of Social Media – Travel’.

A Luxury Travel Blog was a finalist for ‘Travel Blog of the Year’, with Globe Cruiser International Ltd securing multiple finalist places, reflecting its continued strength across the sector.

Overall, the UK Travel Awards 2023 was a remarkable testament to the strides made in the travel industry. It’s clear that the pioneering spirit of travel is alive and well in the UK. Here’s to the remarkable journeys ahead and the passionate people who make them possible!

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A stellar line-up of expert judges has been confirmed for the 2024 Travel Weekly Agent Achievement Awards , which will take place in London in association with headline sponsor Celestyal on Thursday, July 11.

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To cast your votes as a supplier or enter the self-nominated categories for this year’s awards, visit: agentachievementawards.co.uk

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The highest official awards for UK businesses since being established by royal warrant in 1965. Read more .

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• Environment
• Hydrography

Rear Admiral Chukwuemeka Ebenezer Okafor receives 2023 Alexander Dalrymple Award

Former Hydrographer of the Nigerian Navy recognised for services to international hydrography in latest edition of the annual honour.

Rear Admiral Chukwuemeka Ebenezer Okafor receiving the Alexander Dalrymple Award from Rear Admiral Angus Essenhigh

The UK Hydrographic Office (UKHO) yesterday presented Chukwuemeka Ebenezer Okafor, Rear Admiral and former Hydrographer of the Nigerian Navy, the 2023 Alexander Dalrymple Award for services to international hydrography.

During a ceremony led by UK National Hydrographer, Rear Admiral Angus Essenhigh OBE, at the International Maritime Organization headquarters in London, Rear Admiral Okafor received the award as the 2023 recipient during a dinner gathering, also attended by the Nigerian High Commissioner to the UK, Cyprian Heen, as well as close family and friends.

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Commenting on the award, Rear Admiral Angus Essenhigh, UK National Hydrographer, UKHO, said:

It is with great pleasure we present this award to Rear Admiral Okafor, for his lasting contributions to hydrography. We recognise his enduring influence on the Nigerian Navy through his leadership as Nigeria’s National Hydrographer for 32 years. He becomes the latest recipient in a long and illustrious list of some of the world’s most influential hydrographers.

Rear Admiral Chukwuemeka Ebenezer Okafor, Former National Hydrographer of the Nigerian Navy added:

I’m honoured to accept this award from the UK Hydrographic Office. The UKHO’s efforts are paramount to ensuring the safety of maritime operations and preserving the dynamic marine ecosystems upon which we depend. With 32 years of service in the Nigerian Navy, I have always believed passionately in Nigeria’s commitment to hydrography and charting. I have seen first-hand how powerful hydrographic information can be if it is placed in the right hands. I am convinced that sustainability of the current level of hydrographic development in Nigeria will unlock her Blue Economy potential for the common good of all its citizens.

Alongside improved data collection capability, led by Rear Admiral Okafor, the NNHO has also started to produce Electronic Navigational Charts (ENC) and paper chart coverage of Nigerian waters, meeting stringent international standards to earn recognition as an INT chart producer – a globally recognised mark of competency. This started by producing charts in the Lagos Harbour Area and is now expanding to wider parts of Nigeria.

With this impressive charting capability and the recent publication of two nautical publications, Nigeria is well placed to provide accurate and up-to-date hydrographic services across its waters. Notably, this encompasses a significant project to survey and chart the Lower River Niger from Lokoja to Burutu.

The Alexander Dalrymple Award, named in honour of the inaugural Hydrographer of the British Admiralty, has been presented annually by the UK Hydrographic Office since 2006, acknowledging exceptional contributions to the field of hydrography. Recipients are chosen by the UKHO’s Executive Committee for their dedication to advancing hydrography, cartography, and navigation standards worldwide.

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