Jet2.com offering thousands of July seats for £49 or less

Jet2.com puts thousands of July seats up for grabs at £49 or less

Jet2.com has kicked off July in style by announcing fantastic savings for holidaymakers looking to grab a July getaway – with thousands of one-way July seats up for grabs for £49 or less.

Customers looking to book a getaway to a sunny hotspot or a European leisure city this month have more reason than ever to get clicking.

With over 475 routes on sale from across 13 UK airport bases in Summer 25, customers travelling with Jet2.com are spoiled for choice when it comes to getting some well-deserved sunshine across Europe, the Mediterranean, Morocco and Canary Islands.

As well as enjoying the best destinations for just £49 or less this July, customers can also experience Jet2.com’s award-winning flights and customer service, with 10kg hand luggage included, which has seen the airline win an array of high-profile awards, including Which? Recommended Provider status for the past ten years running.

A spokesperson for Jet2.com said: “There is no better feeling than securing a spot in the sunshine for less, so we are getting July off to the best start by announcing this sale, which means cheaper flights and cheaper holidays.

“With thousands of seats in July available for £49 or less on our award-winning airline, we know there will be enormous demand, so we are expecting seats to sell very quickly.”

To take advantage of these fantastic savings, visit www.jet2.com.

Full details available here: https://www.jet2.com/promotions

Rabies case confirmed following contact with animal abroad

UKHSA is reminding travellers to be careful around animals when travelling to rabies affected countries

A woman from the UK has sadly died after becoming infected with rabies, following contact with a stray dog during a visit to Morocco. The individual was diagnosed in Yorkshire and the Humber.  

There is no risk to the wider public in relation to this case as there is no documented evidence of rabies passing between people. However, as a precautionary measure, health workers and close contacts are being assessed and offered vaccination when necessary. 

Rabies is passed on through injuries such as bites and scratches from an infected animal. It is nearly always fatal, but post-exposure treatment is very effective at preventing disease if given promptly after exposure to the virus.  

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is reminding travellers to be careful around animals when travelling to rabies affected countries due to the risk of catching the disease.

Dr Katherine Russell, Head of Emerging Infections and Zoonoses, at UKHSA, said: “I would like to extend my condolences to this individual’s family at this time. 

“If you are bitten, scratched or licked by an animal in a country where rabies is found then you should wash the wound or site of exposure with plenty of soap and water and seek medical advice without delay in order to get post-exposure treatment to prevent rabies.

“There is no risk to the wider public in relation to this case. Human cases of rabies are extremely rare in the UK, and worldwide there are no documented instances of direct human-to-human transmission.”

Rabies does not circulate in either wild or domestic animals in the UK, although some species of bats can carry a rabies-like virus. No human cases of rabies acquired in the UK from animals other than bats have been reported since 1902.  

Between 2000 and 2024 there were 6 cases of human rabies associated with animal exposures abroad reported in the UK. 

Rabies is common in other parts of the world, especially in Asia and Africa. All travellers to rabies affected countries should avoid contact with dogs, cats and other animals wherever possible, and seek advice about the need for rabies vaccine prior to travel. 

You should take immediate action to wash the wound or site of exposure with plenty of soap and water, if:  

  • you’ve been bitten or scratched by an animal while you’re abroad in a country with rabies 
  • an animal has licked your eyes, nose or mouth, or licked a wound you have, while you’re abroad in a country with rabies 
  • you’ve been bitten or scratched by a bat in the UK

Local medical advice should be sought without delay, even in those who have been previously vaccinated. 

When given promptly after an exposure, a course of rabies post-exposure treatment is extremely effective at preventing the disease.

If such an exposure occurs abroad, the traveller should also consult their doctor on return, so that the course of rabies treatment can be completed. If travellers have not sought medical advice abroad, they should contact their doctor promptly upon return for assessment. 

Rabies – Information for travel leaflet. Public Health England. Product code: 400322RT. Gateway Number: 2024664.
Rabies – Information for travel leaflet. Public Health England. Product code: 400322RT. Gateway Number: 2024664.

For more information on the risk of rabies in different countries, see the country information pages on the National Travel Health Network and Centre’s (NaTHNaC’s) website, TravelHealthPro

For more general information about rabies, see the NHS website or the UKHSA leaflet on rabies risks for travellers.

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines returns to Rosyth for summer sailings

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines has today (7th June) returned to the Port of Rosyth, marking the start of a summer season of sailings aboard its 1,325-guest ship, Balmoral.

A total of eight cruises will depart from Rosyth between June and August 2025, offering guests the chance to enjoy scenic and cultural discoveries closer to home and further afield.

Highlights include scenic cruising past Fingal’s Cave and the remote Scottish isles, exploring Arctic Norway under the glow of the Midnight Sun, uncovering the heritage of the Baltic with visits to Riga, Tallinn and Copenhagen, and whale watching in Icelandic waters. Guests can also enjoy the chance to sail the beautiful River Seine through the heart of Normandy.

Later today, Balmoral will depart Rosyth on a 10-night Scotland, Scilly Isles & the West Country cruise. The itinerary features a host of scenic cruising moments including sailing past the Duncansby Sea Stacks, the Needle, Old Man of Hoy, the Small Isles, Dutchman’s Cap and Fingal’s Cave. Calls into Lerwick, St Mary’s in the Isles of Scilly, Falmouth, Dartmouth and Portsmouth offer opportunities to step ashore and explore.

Doug Glenwright, Guest Experience Director at Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, said: “Our summer 2025 sailings from Rosyth offer a hand-crafted mix of scenic cruising and enriching destinations.

“Guests can marvel at Norway’s majestic fjords, witness Iceland’s striking volcanic landscapes, and uncover the rich histories of the Baltic capitals.

“Balmoral’s smaller size also allows us to sail the serene River Seine – a rare opportunity to experience river cruising aboard an ocean-going ship. Each itinerary has been carefully designed to showcase the beauty of the world around us, while offering the warm, personal service we’re known for.”

Rosyth is one of Fred. Olsen Cruise Line’s 2025 departure ports, alongside Liverpool, Portsmouth, Southampton, Newcastle, Dover and Southampton.

Upcoming highlights on Balmoral sailing from Rosyth include:

Balmoral’s 10-night L2513 ‘Norway’s Arctic Islands and Mountainous Vistas’ cruise, departing from Rosyth on 17th June 2025. Prices start from £1,599 per person.

  • Explore Arctic Norway in the summertime
  • Witness the Midnight Sun and see Torghatten
  • Travel along the iconic Atlantic Ocean Road

Itinerary: Rosyth, Scotland – Crossing the Arctic Circle, Norway – Cruising by Reine, Lofoten, Norway – Leknes, Norway – Svolvær, Norway – Cruising Tjeldsundet Strait, Norway – Tromsø, Norway – Sortland, Vesteralen, Norway – Cruising by Seven Sisters Mountain Range, Norway – Cruising by Torghatten, Norway – Kristiansund, Norway – Rosyth, Scotland
For more details: Visit L2513 ‘Norway’s Arctic Islands and Mountainous Vistas’

Balmoral‘s 13-night L2514 ‘Fairytale Castles and Old Towns of the Baltic’ cruise, departing from Rosyth, Edinburgh on 27th June 2025.Prices start from £1,799 per person.

  • Discover the enchanting cities of Riga, Tallinn and Copenhagen
  • Immerse yourself in Estonian life at the Song & Dance Festival
  • Uncover the Hanseatic history of the Baltic region

Itinerary:Rosyth (Edinburgh), UK – Copenhagen, Denmark – Warnemünde (for tours to Schwerin Castle), Germany – Klaipėda, Lithuania – Riga, Latvia – Tallinn, Estonia – Saaremaa, Estonia – Rosyth (Edinburgh), UK

For more information: VisitL2514 ‘Fairytale Castles and Old Towns of the Baltic’

Balmoral’s 10-night L2515 ‘Exploring the Land of Fire and Ice’, departing from Rosyth on 10thJuly 2025. Prices start from £1,699 per person.

  • Discover Iceland’s extraordinary glaciers, geysers and waterfalls
  • Immerse yourself in Iceland’s wellness culture of hot spring bathing
  • Experience whale watching on a tour from Balmoral

Itinerary: Rosyth, Scotland – Cruising by Duncansby Sea Stacks, Scotland – Cruising Pentland Firth, Scotland – Cruising by the Needle, Scotland – Cruising by Old Man of Hoy, Scotland – Torshavn, Faroe Islands – Seyðisfjörður, Iceland – Akureyri, Iceland – Ísafjörður, Iceland – Reykjavik, Iceland – Rosyth, Scotland
For more details: 
Visit L2515 ‘Exploring the Land of Fire and Ice’

Balmoral’s 13-night ‘French Rivers with Normandy & Bordeaux’ cruise, departing Rosyth on 20th July 2025. Prices start from £2,099pp.

  • Sail along the picturesque River Seine, only possible on smaller ships
  • Join a tour to France’s capital and experience Parisian life
  • Discover the enigmatic Mont Saint-Michel from St Malo 

Itinerary: Rosyth, Scotland – Bordeaux, France (overnight) – Cruising Girdonde and Garonne Rivers – Getxo, Spain (for Bilbao) – St Malo, France (anchor port) – Cruising River Seine, France – Rouen, France (overnight port) – Honfleur, France – Rosyth, Scotland
For more details: 
Visit L2516 ‘French Rivers with Normandy and Bordeaux’


For further information on Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines’ sailings from Rosyth, visit www.fredolsencruises.com/cruises-from-scotland
Book online or call Reservations on 0800 0355 242 (Monday to Friday 8.30am to 6pm, Saturday 9am to 5pm, Sunday 10am to 4pm), or contact your ABTA travel agent.

Next stop: May half-term – train travel delivers over a £430m boost to local economies

This May half-term, families travelling by rail are set to contribute an estimated £191 million to the local area they depart from and over £240 million at their destination, boosting local microeconomies.

Those heading for seaside towns and villages could drive local spending of over £20 million across the entire May half-term.

Food and drink are the top spend in and around the departure station, with leisure passengers supporting local high streets and the hospitality industry when they travel.

Numbers of leisure travellers expected to jump by 9% in city destinations and leap by 1/3 in seaside towns during half-term week with rail passengers, giving a real boost to local economies.

This May half-term, when leisure travellers, families and friends opt to travel by rail, they will also be providing a significant economic boost to local communities across Great Britain. New data from Rail Delivery Group shows that rail travellers this May half-term will contribute an estimated £191 million to the local areas from which they depart and over £240 million at their destination.

When comparing the half-term week in May with surrounding weeks outside, numbers of leisure travellers are expected to jump by 9% in city destinations and increase by 1/3 in seaside towns with rail passengers, giving a real boost to local businesses.

Whether families are spending more time exploring new places, enjoying leisurely meals, or visiting seaside attractions during their holidays, every journey made during this half-term will contribute to local economies.

Just over half (58%) of all leisure travellers spend money in and around the departure station and the most common location to spend money is on the local high street (40% of leisure travellers) followed by inside the station (16%).

The data also found that passengers heading to seaside towns and villages are the most likely to spend money in and around their departure station (65%), followed by people travelling to non-coastal towns and villages (60%) and cities (58%) and with travellers to rural areas the least likely (49%).

Those families heading to the seaside are expected to make an even larger impact with an average spend of £34 in and around their departure station and £44 at their destination. This means that those travellers visiting seaside towns and villages could be contributing over £20 million throughout the entire half-term to their local high streets, independent businesses and beyond. Whether grabbing an ice cream, buying a book or enjoying a fresh batch of fish & chips, every journey will benefit the local economies.

Beyond the economic boost, choosing rail this May half-term has a real environmental impact. On average, a single train journey emits nearly five times less carbon emissions than the same trip by car—equivalent to saving as much carbon as boiling a kettle 455 times.

And compared with flying, domestic rail travel in Britain is up to 13 times greener. By choosing the train, half-term travellers can significantly reduce their carbon footprint while also supporting local communities across the country.

Jacqueline Starr, Executive Chair & Chief Executive Officer at Rail Delivery Group said: “May half-term is a great time for families to explore many wonderful towns and attractions across Britain.

“Our data shows that by choosing sustainable rail journeys, passengers not only reduce their carbon footprint but also play a vital role in supporting local communities.

“Whether it’s a seaside escape, exploring somewhere new, or visiting family, this half-term every trip is more than a journey; it’s a chance to support local high streets, independent businesses and further drive economic growth across the country.”

Short breaks, big memories

Turn the last May Bank Holiday weekend into unforgettable European city break with Jet2CityBreaks

  • Explore more than 30 city break destinations and enjoy a well-deserved holiday with Jet2CityBreaks
  • Discover Rome, Krakow, Barcelona, Prague and more from one of Jet2.com’s 13 UK airport bases

With only one bank holiday left for the next three months, Jet2CityBreaks is inspiring customers to make the most of the next long weekend and escape to inspiring cities across Europe.

From sun-soaked plazas to fairytale old towns, Europe’s cities are packed with charm, history, and endless adventures. With plenty to see, the cities of Rome, Krakow, Barcelona, and Prague are perfect short break destinations for a long weekend.

With friendly flight times, Jet2CityBreaks offers plenty of short break packages to suit all tastes and budgets.

By choosing Jet2CityBreaks – a Which? Recommended Provider for City Breaks for the fourth year running – holidaymakers can enjoy award-winning getaways for even less, as the city break specialist is offering £100pp off all city breaks, plus an extra £60 per booking on all May and June getaways in the myJet2 sale.

With over 30 city break destinations to choose from, customers can enjoy VIP customer service, return flights (including a 22kg baggage allowance), and a choice of 2-5 star hotels all wrapped in one ATOL-protected bundle.

Rome

Best for: Ancient ruins and historic architecture

Italy’s capital city, Rome, is the kind of place that stays with you long after you’ve left. One minute you’re standing in front of the Colosseum, imagining gladiator battles, and the next, you’re tucking into a delicious carbonara in a tucked-away trattoria. From tossing a coin in the Trevi Fountain to sipping an Aperol Spritz in Piazza Navona, Rome is pure magic.

Jet2CityBreaks – Italy, Rome, 4 star H10 Roma Citta, 3 nights room-only departing from Birmingham on 23rd May.

Price: £659 per person based on 2 sharing, includes a 22kg baggage allowance.

Krakow

Best for: Comfort food and cobbled streets

Krakow has all the medieval charm of a Polish fairytale, with a stunning castle, cobbled streets, and the largest market square in Europe. It’s also packed with cool, modern energy – think underground bars, buzzing cafés, and a celebrated foodie scene. Plus, history lovers can explore the city’s deep past, from the moving stories of Schindler’s Factory in the Kazimierz district to the incredible underground salt mines.

Jet2CityBreaks – Poland, Krakow, 4 star Xerion Hotel, 3 nights room-only departing from Manchester on 26th May.

Price: £349 per person based on 2 sharing, includes a 22kg baggage allowance.

Barcelona

Best for: Sunshine and sangria

Barcelona has got it all – golden Spanish beaches, incredible food, and stunning architecture. Whether it’s admiring Gaudí’s Sagrada Família, getting lost in the Gothic Quarter, or stretching out on the sand with a cocktail in hand, this city has something for all.

Holidaymakers can treat their tastebuds to delicious tapas dishes, from patatas bravas and fresh seafood to churros dipped in thick hot chocolate. Top it all off with a sunset view from a rooftop for the perfect Spanish city break.

Jet2CityBreaks – Spain, Barcelona, 3 star Hotel Acta Voraport, 3 nights room-only, departing from Leeds Bradford on 23rd May.

Price: £569 per person based on 2 sharing, includes a 22kg baggage allowance.

Prague

Best for: Grand castles and river cruises

Prague feels like stepping into a storybook, with its medieval bridges, grand castle, and its lantern-lit Charles Bridge. The city is a treat for the senses, from cruising down the Vltava River, discovering its history in the National Museum, or sampling a plate of goulash and dumplings.

Known for its buzzing nightlife and fun-loving vibe, many bars and beer halls are serving world-famous Czech beer. Despite the bustle, you’re sure to find hidden corners and secret surprises in this truly magical city.

Jet2CityBreaks – Czech Republic, Prague, 3 star Prague Centre Plaza, 3 nights bed & breakfast departing from Manchester on 23rd May.

Price: £429 per person based on 2 sharing, includes a 22kg baggage allowance. 

For further information, please visit: www.jet2citybreaks.com

****All deals supplied are the cheapest available rates for the holiday(s) or flight(s) specified and therefore availability may be limited at this price. Prices are correct as at 08/05/2025.

To ensure we are fulfilling our obligations under the Digital Markets, Competition & Consumers Act 2024, please ensure that you provide your end user and/or include in all marketing material, all holiday details supplied to you including a link to the Jet2.com (https://www.jet2.com/en/Terms) / Jet2holidays (https://www.jet2holidays.com/terms-and-conditions) T&Cs and details of the customers Key Rights (https://www.jet2holidays.com/travel-arrangement-rights), together with the statement that “prices are correct as at 08/05/2025 and are the cheapest available rates for the holiday /flight specified, therefore availability may be limited at this price.

Please note in-resort fees may apply to certain holidays, see https://www.jet2holidays.com/ for more details.”  ****

For further information visit: www.jet2holidays.com/city-breaks

Barrhead Travel reveals top destinations for Edinburgh holidaymakers this Easter

Following a record start to the year, leading travel agent shares destinations that have topped the must-visit lists for customers this Easter 

Barrhead Travel has revealed sunshine is top of the priority list this spring for British holidaymakers, with Tenerife, Mallorca and Turkey emerging amongst the most popular destinations this Easter.  

With the recent spell of fair weather, customers have caught the bug for sunshine, with Easter departures set to exceed their record-breaking holiday period in 2024.   

  

Following the agency’s successful start to the year, cruising has also proven a very popular option, thanks to the value-for-money on offer as well as the convenience of many regional departures. 

According to Barrhead Travel sales data, the top selling destinations for travel across the Easter period in Scotland have included: 

  1. Tenerife 
  2. Mallorca 
  3. Lanzarote 
  4. Antalya 
  5. Alicante 

All-inclusive holidays remain the number one choice for holidaymakers, while cruise is also amongst the top picks. Most customers are opting to maximise the holiday period with seven nights listed as the top duration. However, the group have reported an increase in three and four night breaks this season with many people opting for long weekend getaways.  

The ongoing demand mirrors Barclays latest consumer research which highlights that spend with travel agents was up 13.1 percent in March while holidays were cited as a “top priority purchase.” 

Jacqueline Dobson, President of Barrhead Travel said: “We can see the appetite for holidays in 2025 shows no sign of slowing down, with travel across the Easter period set to exceed our departures from last season.  

“We’ve seen an increase in late bookings this Easter which suggests that there’s high levels of confidence amongst customers to add in extra holiday breaks. The pattern we’re seeing is that people have secured their main annual holiday further ahead than usual and are then assessing their budgets periodically to see what other trips they feel they can plan in. 

“We know how important holidays are to our customers this year and we’ve been working hard to make sure that we can deliver the very best value for money. Working with a trusted travel agent, like our team at Barrhead Travel, can help make your budget go further.

“With Easter wrapping up this weekend, we’re now looking ahead to a busy May Bank Holiday period and summer season.” 

Barrhead Travel’s retail network is open seven days a week until late as well as offering evening support through their online service, call centres and social media channels.

Find your nearest Barrhead Travel store by visiting:

https://www.barrheadtravel.co.uk/storelocator   

Jet2holidays and Jet2CityBreaks are recognised as Which? Recommended Providers once again

  • UK’s largest tour operator receives good news to start 2025, after receiving prestigious status in five categories – Beach and Resort Holiday ProvidersSolo Holiday ProvidersFamily Holiday Providers, Tailor-Made Holiday Providers and City Breaks Providers
  • Jet2’s brands named Which? Recommended Provider in seven categories in total!

Jet2holidays is starting this year on a high, having been named a Which? Recommended Provider in an unprecedented five categories.

The UK’s largest tour operator has once again been praised for its customer first approach and received the prestigious status in the Beach and Resort Holiday ProvidersSolo Holiday Providers and Family Holiday Providers categories, as well as in a brand-new category for Jet2holidays – Tailor-Made Holiday Providers. Jet2CityBreaks is also recognised as a City Breaks Provider once again.

For the first time, Jet2holidays has received recognition in the consumer champion’s Tailor-Made Holiday Providers category which involved surveying almost 13,000 Which? Connect panel members who had discussed their holiday requirements with a travel advisor and had their specific holiday needs catered to or had been provided with recommendations on destinations or hotels. After being highly praised for its customer service and value for money of their holiday overall, Jet2holidays was awarded a customer score of 81%.

Adding to its success, Jet2holidays also received Which? Recommended Provider status in the Beach and Resort Holiday Providers category for the seventh year running. This accomplishment comes after respondents to the survey rated their beach and resort package holidays based on their customer service, accommodation, description matches reality, organisation, transport to and from destination and value for money, seeing Jet2holidays score an impressive 82%. Assessing Jet2holidays, Which? concludes ‘For a short-haul European beach break, Jet2holidays’ quality and wide number of destinations make it unbeatable.’

There was cause for even further celebration, as the company has also been named as a Which? Recommended Provider in the Family Holiday Providers and Solo Holiday Providers categories for the third year running. This recognition was achieved after customers rated the package holiday specialist highly in both categories, with Jet2holidays receiving a total score of 78% in the ‘Solo Holiday Providers’ category and 80% in the ‘Family Holiday Providers’ category.

Jet2CityBreaks has also been named a Which? Recommended Provider for City Breaks for the fourth consecutive year, after receiving a customer score of 80%.

In addition to these latest successes, Jet2.com is also a Which? Recommended Provider for Airlines and Jet2Villas is a Which? Recommended Provider for Villas and Holiday Lets AbroadIt means that Jet2’s brands are recognised as a Which? Recommended Provider in seven categories in total. These are: Beach and Resort Holiday ProvidersTailor-Made Holiday Providers, Family Holiday Providers, Solo Holiday Providers, City Breaks (Jet2CityBreaks), Villas and Holiday Lets Abroad (Jet2Villasand Airlines (Jet2.com).

In further recognition for providing customers with industry-leading products and customer service on their well-deserved holidays, Jet2.com and Jet2holidays also secured the title of Travel Brand of the Year for the third year running at the prestigious Which? Awards 2024.

To help holidaymakers secure their well-deserved holiday for even less this year, Jet2holidays has launched a promotion giving customers £90 per person off all holidays that depart between now and 15th November 2026.

The tour operatorhas also announced that customers with a myJet2 account can access an even bigger saving – with a whopping £100 off per person on all holidays. To take advantage of this saving, customers can sign up quickly and easily for a myJet2 account at https://www.jet2holidays.com/myjet2

Steve Heapy, CEO of Jet2.com and Jet2holidays, said: “This is fantastic news to start the new year. We are extremely proud to receive Which? Recommended Provider status once again and to be repeatedly recognised for our commitment to delivering outstanding customer service.

“This in-depth study carried out by the consumer champion, which is based on the experiences of paying customers, demonstrates who holidaymakers and independent travel agents can trust and look to when booking their next holiday, as we enter the peak booking season.

“With no fewer than seven Which? Recommended Provider accolades, this recognition reflects the hard work we put into delivering our industry-leading customer service.

“Whatever type of getaway a customer is after, they can be assured that Jet2.com and Jet2holidays will go above and beyond to deliver their much-deserved holiday. We are looking forward to even more successes in 2025.”

To view the findings of the survey, please follow the links below:

Best & Worst Tailor-Made Holiday Providers: Best tailor made holiday providers – Which?

Best & Worst Beach and Resort Holiday Providers: Best Package Holiday Providers – Which?

Best & Worst City Break Providers: Best And Worst City Break Providers – Which?

Best & Worst Family Holiday Providers: Best family holiday providers – Which?

Best & Worst Solo Holiday Providers: Best and worst solo holiday providers – Which?

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines partners with Jet2.com for 2025 Mediterranean fly-cruise programme

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines has teamed up with airline Jet2.com for its new 2025 fly-cruise programme.

Between October and November 2025, Fred. Olsen’s smaller ship Balmoral will play host on a range of Mediterranean sailings, with Jet2.com to operate chartered flights from London Stansted and Manchester.

With cruises ranging from seven to 12-nights, guests will have opportunities to take in the charming cliff-top towns of Cinque Terre and the Amalfi, the beautiful Bay of Kotor and the enchanting Greek islands. Ashore, they can discover the origins of Flamenco dancing, sip Jerez sherry, wander the Dalmatian markets and witness Krka Waterfall.

Clare Ward, Director of Product and Customer Services at Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, said: “We are really excited about this new partnership with Jet2.com for Balmoral’s 2025 Mediterranean fly-cruise programme.

“They are renowned for their customer service, and as such will complement the high standard of service that our guests come to expect from us. This collaboration highlights our commitment to delivering unforgettable experiences for our guests, before they even step foot aboard one of our ships.

“A fly-cruise is perfect for guests who want to maximise their time ashore, by reducing the time in sailing from the UK. Plus, guests can tailor their holiday by booking onto consecutive fly-cruises for those looking to enjoy a longer autumnal break in the sunshine.”

Fred. Olsen’s fly-cruise fare includes economy flights and transfers to and from the ship, a luggage allowance of 22kg, plus 10kg of hand luggage.

Balmoral will be operating six fly-cruise sailings in the Mediterranean in 2025, as follows:

Balmoral’s 10-night L2524 ‘Spanish Colours and Cultures’ cruise, departing from Southampton on 17th September 2025. Prices start from £1,599 per person.

Experience Ibiza’s renowned sunset from the decks of Balmoral
Enjoy authentic Spanish cuisines, such as tapas and Jerez sherry
Visit the iconic landmark of the Sagrada Familia Cathedral
Itinerary: Southampton, UK – La Coruna, Spain – Cadiz, Spain – Ibiza, Spain – Cruising by Benirras Beach at sunset, Ibiza, Spain – Barcelona Spain – Valencia, Spain (overnight port)
For more details: Visit L2524 ‘Spanish Colours and Cultures’

Balmoral’s 10-night L2525 ‘Colourful Cliffside Towns of the Amalfi Coast’ cruise, departing from Valencia, Spain, on 27th September 2025. Prices start from £1,799 per person.

Marvel at beautiful Cinque Terre, Bonifacio and the Amalfi Coast
Experience ‘la dolce vita’, Italy’s culture of enjoying life’s pleasures
Savour limoncello, scialatielli pasta and Italian pizza
Itinerary: Valencia, Spain (overnight port) – Cruising by Benirras Beach at sunset, Ibiza, Spain – Mahon, Menorca, Spain – Propriano, Corsica, France – La Spezia, Italy – Salerno, Italy – Cruising Amalfi Coast and Capri, Italy – Naples, Italy – Sorrento Italy, Civitavecchia (for Rome), Italy (overnight port)
For more details: Visit L2525 ‘Colourful Cliffside Towns of the Amalfi Coast’

Balmoral’s 10-night L2526 ‘Bays, Mountains and Islands of the Dalmatian Coast’ cruise, departing from Civitavecchia, Italy, on 7th October 2025. Prices start from £1,799 per person.

Experience the beauty of the Dalmatian Coast from Balmoral
Visit Lake Bled, Lokrum Island and Krka Waterfalls
Immerse yourself in authentic Croatian culture
Itinerary: Civitavecchia (for Rome), Italy (overnight port) – Cruising by Stromboli, Italy – Cruising the Strait of Messina, Italy – Cruising Bay of Kotor, Montenegro – Kotor Montenegro – Koper, Slovenia – Cruising St Anthony Channel, Croatia – Sibenik, Croatia – Split, Croatia – Cruising by Mount Biokovo, Makarska Riviera, Croatia – Dubrovnik, Croatia (overnight port)
For more details: Visit L2526 ‘Bays, Mountains and Islands of the Dalmatian Coast’

Balmoral’s eight-night L2527 ‘Greek Island Odyssey’ cruise, departing from Dubrovnik, Croatia, on 17th October 2025. Prices start from £1,599 per person.

Explore the idyllic island of Santorini and Zakynthos’ coastline
Indulge in authentic Greek cuisine and watch traditional dancing
Visit the renowned ruins of the Acropolis in Athens
Itinerary: Dubrovnik, Croatia (overnight port) – Argostoli, Kefalonia, Greece – Cruising Zakynthos coastline, Greece – Kalamata, Greece – Piraeus (for Athens), Greece – Thira, Santorini, Greece – Agios Nikolaos, Crete, Greece – Rhodes, Greece (overnight port)
For more details: Visit L2527 ‘Greek Island Odyssey’

Balmoral’s 12-night L2528 ‘Discovering Turkish Treasures’ cruise, departing from Rhodes, Greece, on 25th October 2025. Prices start from £1,999 per person.

Explore a multitude of renowned European landmarks
Embrace local Turkish traditions, and enjoy the fragrant local tea
Delve into the winding streets of the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul
Itinerary: Rhodes, Greece (overnight port) – Bodrum, Turkey – Kusadasi, Turkey – Istanbul, Turkey – Valletta, Malta – Malaga, Spain (overnight port)
For more details: Visit L2528 ‘Discovering Turkish Treasures’

Balmoral’s seven-night L2529 ‘Mountain Landscapes of Spain, Portugal and Gibraltar’ cruise, departing from Malaga, Spain, on 6th November 2025. Prices start from £1,099 per person.

Explore the mountainous landscapes of Iberia
Experience flamenco dance and soulful fado music
Embrace cuisines such as gazpacho, sardines and pasteis de nata
Itinerary: Malaga, Spain (overnight port) – Gibraltar, Gibraltar – Cruise Mouth of River Tagus, Belem Tower and Discovery Monument, Portugal – Cruising by the Monument of the Discoveries, Portugal – Cruising by Cristo Rei and Abril 25 Bridge, Portugal – Lisbon, Portugal (overnight stay) – Southampton, UK

For more details: Visit L2529 ‘Mountain Landscapes of Spain, Portugal and Gibraltar’

For further information on Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines’ fly cruises, visit the website www.fredolsencruises.com/fly-cruises

Book online, call Reservations on 0800 0355 215 (Monday to Friday 8.30am to 6pm, Saturday 9am to 5pm, Sunday 10am to 4pm), or contact your ABTA travel agent.

Young Brits warned of dangers of modern slavery abroad

Young people travelling to popular holiday destinations to work in bars and clubs have been given advice on the dangers of labour exploitation

Thousands of young people travelling to popular holiday destinations including Ibiza, Majorca and Menorca to work in bars and clubs have been given advice on the dangers of labour exploitation.

Border Force officers have been running Operation Karetu at 22 airports across the UK, targeting young people travelling to work in Mediterranean destinations who could be at risk of exploitation, criminality and illegal working.

The month long operation has so far seen officers engage with over 1,000 young Brits, providing them with leaflets and guidance on how to avoid the risks involved as unofficial public relations (PR) reps – work that involves touting people into clubs and bars.

Young holidaymakers who travel abroad every year to work in the hospitality industry risk being forced to work long hours for low wages. Risks include working illegally due to a lack of knowledge about EU employment regulations or being exploited by serious organised criminal gangs. 

Operation Karetu was initially launched in 2018 amid concerns over the welfare of young British nationals being exposed to different types of exploitation particularly labour and sexual exploitation. The Operation has had significant success and since 2022 there have been zero cases of labour exploitation reported to the British Consular in the Balearics.

However, many cases of Labour exploitation go undetected, and Border Force continue to run Operation Karetu every year as an important preventative operation to protect young people.

Home Office Minister, Seema Malhotra said: “Travelling abroad for a summer in the sun is an exciting prospect for thousands of young people across the country, but it’s important they’re able to do that safely.

“Operation Karetu is just one example of Border Force’s work to protect the British public, ensuring young people are kept safe from unscrupulous employers.”

This year’s operation was specifically targeting the Balearic Islands, which includes popular tourist destinations such as Ibiza, Majorca, and Menorca.

The operation began on 17 June and is running until 19 July this year, and is carried out in partnership with the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, the modern slavery charity, Unseen, and British embassies abroad.

Border Force carries out Operation Karetu annually as part of its Prevent and Protect strategies, to end involvement in exploitation and strengthen safeguards by protecting individuals, organisations and systems.    

Key advice from Border Force officers to people considering working abroad are:  

  1. Working while a tourist in the EU is illegal. If you are not an EU national or legally resident in the EU, you need a job offer, work permit and visa. More information is available on Travelling to the EU and Schengen area – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk).
  2. Check you have a visa and a contract before starting your job.  
  3. Ask about accommodation and find out the rent/costs. Do this before accepting accommodation as part of a job offer.  
  4. Keep hold of your passport at all times. If it is taken, report it to police. You can contact the local British Consulate for help and advice. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. 

The Border Force operation is supported by modern slavery charity Unseen, who operate the Modern Slavery Helpline. Anyone feeling vulnerable about their work or finances can contact the Modern Slavery Helpline, in confidence, on 08000 121 700. 

The operation is just one part of the work Border Force carries out to address modern slavery and trafficking. All front-line Border Force officers are trained to identify signs of modern slavery and make the necessary referrals. 

Jet2holidays launches sale on ALL holidays departing up to end of August

Jet2holidays is bringing some much-needed sunshine to cheer up all those (including rain-soaked politicians!) who have had enough of the gloom and rain, by announcing savings on ALL holidays departing up to the end of August this year. 

During the same week that saw Jet2holidays announced as Which? Travel Brand of the Year for the third year running, the UK’s largest tour operator has also dropped a brand-new sizzling summer sale.  

The sale gives customers £50 off PER PERSON on ALL award-winning  Jet2holidays that depart between today and August 31st 2024, with customers who have a MyJet2 account enjoying £60 off per person.

To sign up for a MyJet2 account, customers just need to visit: 

https://www.jet2holidays.com/myjet2

As a result, couples can save £100 if they book a holiday due to travel between today and August via the Jet2holidays website or contact centre (£120 off for MyJet2 members) and a family of four can save £200 (£240 off for MyJet2 members).

On top of that, there are millions of Free Child Place holidays available, including during the summer holidays! 

This summer represents Jet2holidays’ biggest ever summer programme, and customers can now get away from the rain and book their spot in the sunshine for even less thanks to this sizzling new sale. The offers apply across thousands of 2-5 star hotels and villas in almost 60 destinations. 

In addition to these fantastic savings with Jet2holidays, holidaymakers can also save on Jet2.com flights, as the leading leisure airline is offering 10% off all flights due to travel between today and August 31st 2024 too. 

Steve Heapy, CEO of Jet2.com and Jet2holidays, said: “The UK weather continues to be wet and miserable, and you can’t even make an election announcement without getting drenched, so we are making things better, not wetter, by giving people the chance to escape to the sunshine for even less.

“We are looking ahead to the busiest summer in our history and thanks to this sale, even more people can vote with their feet to get away with Which?’s Travel Brand of the Year and experience all the qualities that make us an award-winning holiday company.” 

To take advantage of this unmissable sale, visit:

www.jet2holidays.com or www.jet2.com