World News - Page 31 of 72

Oceania Cruises: Discover the Caribbean in a New Way

August 23, 2026 by Amara Nambinga

La programmation comprend notamment Dutchman's Caribbean, une croisière de 14 jours au départ de Miami le 11 novembre 2026 à bord d'Oceania Vista - Photo : Oceania Cruises

CroisiEurope

On its ships Oceania Vista, Oceania Allura and the recently renovated Oceania Marina, Oceania Cruises will offer in the Caribbean this winter itineraries of seven to fourteen days, blending major regional ports with more intimate harbors.

The stated aim is to foster immersion through small-group excursions focused on local culture, heritage and cuisine.

Among the highlighted experiences are a visit to a beekeepers cooperative in Saint Lucia, an immersion in banana plantations in Martinique, a discovery of artisan markets of Sainte-Anne in Guadeloupe or even a lunch on a Tortola beach after visiting an organic farm.

In Curaçao, passengers will also have the chance to partake in a cheese and wine tasting in Willemstad’s UNESCO-listed historic center.

Gastronomy at the Heart of the Experience

This approach continues aboard. Oceania Cruises highlights Chef’s Market Dinners, during which the Terrace Café revisits the flavors of the visited ports, as well as the Culinary Center workshops, inspired by local ingredients and culinary traditions.

LYNC photography workshops also complete the activity program.

“Our Caribbean cruises reveal the richness and diversity of this region, blending iconic islands with more intimate ports,” states Jason Montague, Chief Luxury Officer of Oceania Cruises, in a press release.

“Thanks to a curated selection of immersive excursions, even the most seasoned travelers gain a new perspective on destinations they thought they already knew.”

Five itineraries in the spotlight

The program includes notably Dutchman’s Caribbean, a 14-day cruise departing from Miami on November 11, 2026 aboard Oceania Vista, as well as Caribbean Island Bliss, a ten-day itinerary aboard Oceania Allura starting December 2.

The company will also offer Collector’s Caribbean (December 10, aboard Oceania Marina), Tropical Retreats, a seven-day Christmas cruise departing from Miami on December 21 aboard Oceania Allura, and Caribbean Celebration, a 14-day itinerary allowing guests to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Martinique before continuing to Saint Kitts and Saint Martin.

Finally, Oceania Cruises accompanies this programming with a promotional offer valid until September 8, 2026 on a selection of departures from the United Kingdom and several European cities, including round-trip flights and one night hotel before embarkation.

Luxury Cruises: A New Clientele Follows Hotel Brands Out to Sea

August 22, 2026 by Amara Nambinga

Croisières de luxe : les marques hôtelières séduisent une nouvelle clientèle - Photo CE

CroisiEurope

According to the latest data published by Global Travel Collection (GTC), cruises operated under hotel brands now account for 5% of upcoming bookings made by its network of luxury travel advisors.

A segment still limited in volume, but it carries a very high-end positioning, with an average price of $40,000 per booking.

For French professionals, Global Travel Collection (GTC) remains a relatively little-known player. A subsidiary of the American Internova Travel Group, it is nevertheless one of the world’s largest networks of advisers specializing in luxury travel. The company unites more than 1,500 advisors who serve a high-end clientele.

“A customer who has been loyal to a hotel brand for fifteen years now boards the ship of that same brand”

One of the main lessons from this study concerns the traveler profile. According to GTC, this new clientele is not made up of seasoned cruisers climbing up the ladder, but of customers loyal to prestigious hotel brands who are taking their first cruise.

“It is about creating a category, not changing one,” explains Angie Licea, president of Global Travel Collection, in the press release.

“A customer loyal to a hotel brand for fifteen years now boards the ship of that same brand, with the same expectations as on land. He does not compare offers with other cruises. He finds the familiar and reassuring experience in a new environment,” she adds.

The average price of these cruises stands at $40,000, roughly four times the average price of a traditional ocean cruise, according to GTC.

The American cruise market is expected to continue growing in 2026

Beyond branded cruises, GTC notes a strong uptick in the yacht segment. Sales would have increased by around $3 million in a year.

According to the data disclosed, the American cruise market is expected to keep growing in 2026, with: an overall 5% growth; 25% growth for river cruises; 40% for yacht cruises.

Global Travel Collection, for its part, says it has recorded a 14% rise in its sales across all cruise segments, nearly three times the market’s expected growth.

“The cruise sector has lost its former reputation faster than almost any other category we track. The ceiling on luxury sea travelers’ spending has risen substantially, and the brands investing in this market are the main reason,” concludes Angie Licea.

Summer 2027: Costa Reinvents Cruise Itineraries as a True Travel Experience

August 22, 2026 by Amara Nambinga

Nouveaux itinéraires été 2027 © Costa Croisières

Et si chaque itinéraire racontait désormais sa propre histoire ?

Today, travelers seek far more than a simple sequence of ports of call. They want to experience an atmosphere, discover a destination from a different angle and choose a journey that aligns with their desires, whether it be relaxation, culture, gastronomy, or discovery.

More than ever, the overall experience, both onboard and on land, has become a decisive criterion in choosing a vacation. It is in this logic that Costa is rethinking its summer 2027 programming with a new generation of itineraries built around clearly identifiable travel universes.

The company is gradually moving away from a purely geographical approach in favor of real travel concepts. Each itinerary now has its own identity, expressed from its name and carried by a strong emotional throughline. Thus, Dolce Vita speaks to lovers of the Mediterranean art of living, between Portofino, Taormine and the Amalfi Coast. Blue Islands highlights the finest Greek islands and their infinite shades of blue. Golden Islands takes travelers to the heart of the “Islands of Gold” in the Mediterranean, with four islands united by crystal-clear waters, vibrant atmospheres and spectacular sunrises and sunsets. Nordic Soul invites travelers to discover Northern Europe through its grand landscapes, preserved nature and Scandinavian way of life. With Adriatic & Cyclades, Costa brings together the charm of the Adriatic and the mythical magic of the Cyclades for an immersion among cultures, traditions and iconic panoramas.

Exemple de nouveaux concepts © Costa Croisières

These itineraries are only a preview of the new Summer 2027 collection. Many other itineraries await discovery, each designed to offer a different way to explore a destination and experience the cruise. Through this approach, Costa turns the itinerary into a true travel experience, giving travel agencies new selling points and a more inspiring way to present its offer.

How do these new itineraries facilitate sales in agencies?

This new approach helps agents guide clients more easily according to their desires rather than a simple list of ports of call. The choice is no longer limited to Western or Eastern Mediterranean, but to different ways of living one’s vacation: relaxation, cultural discovery, spectacular landscapes, Mediterranean ambiance, or immersion in nature.

For advisors, the messaging also evolves. It becomes possible to recommend an experience before recommending a destination. A client drawn to elegance, gastronomy, and the art of living will naturally be steered toward Dolce Vita, while a lover of islands, turquoise landscapes and seaside atmosphere will find happiness in Blue Islands.

The company also reinforces this promise with exclusive experiences on board and on land. The Sea Experiences, the Land Experiences inspired by the visited regions create a stronger link between the itinerary and the traveler’s experience, offering a seamless journey from the first to the last day of the cruise.

How to entice a former client to sail again to a destination they already know?

This is one of the major strengths of this lineup. Many travelers already know the Mediterranean’s classics or the Greek Islands. Yet, thanks to this new approach, they now have new reasons to return.

The experience evolves both on land and at sea. A client who sailed in the Mediterranean a few years ago will not simply rediscover the same itinerary: they will find a new way to live their journey. The storytelling of journeys, the Sea Experiences & Land Experiences on offer allow re-discovering familiar places from a totally new angle.

Finally, among the highlights of the Summer 2027 season, Costa also signs the return of the highly anticipated Eclipse Cruise. After the success of the 2026 edition, sold out, it will once again offer the chance to observe a total solar eclipse at sea on August 2, 2027, departing La Seyne-sur-Mer on July 27, 2027 with a return on August 7, 2027, aboard the Costa Fascinosa. A 10-day rare experience that perfectly illustrates the company’s ambition: to transform every cruise into a unique and memorable journey.

Croisière de l’éclipse – Visuel généré par IA © Costa Croisières

Where to find all the information to sell these new concepts?

To assist agencies in marketing this new offering, the Italian company has also modernized Costa Extra, its sales portal dedicated to tourism professionals.

Summer 2027 sales are now open, with all the new itineraries available for booking. Agents can find all the information they need to sell: detailed descriptions, sales arguments, visual contents and videos dedicated to each travel concept, whether Dolce Vita, Blue Islands, Golden Islands, Nordic Soul, Seaside Dream or Lights of the Mediterranean.

Exemple d’une page de réservation C|Extra - © Costa Croisières

DUNE Debuts Longara, a Luxury Red Sea Diving Yacht

August 22, 2026 by Amara Nambinga

DUNE franchit un nouveau cap avec Longara - Photo DUNE

CroisiEurope

After more than thirty years of activity in the diving sector, DUNE continues to raise the bar of its offer.

The Marseille-based company has just launched Longara, a 43-meter yacht designed for diving cruises in the Red Sea.

Starting from the 2026 season, three itineraries will also offer a gastronomic experience conceived with the two-Michelin-starred chef Michel Portos.

The project fits within a broader trend of upscaling sea experiences, where comfort, gastronomy and service become integral components of the journey.

A 43-meter yacht dedicated to diving

Inaugurated in April 2026, Longara constitutes the new showcase for DUNE.

The yacht features 15 cabins and hosts a crew of 13 members, including three chefs and two dive guides.

“With Longara, we want to offer an exceptional experience in the Red Sea: sites among the most spectacular in the world, attentive service and an atmosphere that is both friendly and refined, as well as wellbeing or leisure activities for accompanying guests“, explains Steeve Hans, CEO of DUNE.

The offering is thus aimed at divers, but also at companions who do not necessarily practise this activity. The yacht must provide them with alternative activities, in a shared-stay logic.

A collaboration with Chef Michel Portos

From autumn 2026, DUNE will add a gastronomic dimension to the Longara experience. Chef Michel Portos, a two-star Michelin chef, will design a specific culinary offer for three cruises scheduled between 2026 and 2027.

A passionate scuba diver since his adolescence, the chef will combine this personal experience with cuisine focused on local products and short supply chains. Menus will be prepared using seasonal ingredients, in an eco-responsible approach.

Three departures planned between 2026 and 2027

Three gastronomic cruises guided by Michel Portos are planned aboard Longara :

from November 28 to December 5, 2026;

from December 26, 2026 to January 2, 2027;
>

from May 29 to June 5, 2027.

Publié par Amelia Brille Rédactrice TourMaG.com
Voir tous les articles d’Amélia Brille

Ajoutez TourMaG à votre flux Google Actualités

Cunard to Unveil Queen Victoria’s New Look from November 2026

August 22, 2026 by Amara Nambinga

Cunard, qui exploite le Queen Victoria, est représenté en France par Cruisepro - Photo : Cunard

CroisiEurope

Cunard continues to modernize its fleet.

After a scheduled dry-dock from October 17 to November 5, 2026 at Damen Shiprepair Rotterdam, the Queen Victoria will return to the sea with spaces entirely revised.

The company announces in particular a redesigned Grand Lobby, a renovated Queens Room — the iconic venue for Afternoon Tea, concerts and gala evenings — as well as a complete reconfiguration of the Queens Grill Suites and Princess Grill Suites, with new furniture and more contemporary finishes.

The accommodation offer will also be strengthened with eight new Britannia cabins, including three Britannia Deluxe Oceanview cabins, a new category fitted with wide panoramic windows providing a sweeping view of the ocean.

These cabins are being marketed for departures starting November 11, 2026.

Cruises resume on November 7, 2026

On the dining side, the Pavilion Wellness Café will make its debut aboard.

Already present on the Queen Anne and Queen Elizabeth, this concept emphasizes wellness-oriented cuisine, prioritizing plant-based products while also offering meats, fish and dairy products sourced from organic farming.

Once renovated, the liner will resume its cruises as of November 7, 2026, before supporting its 2027 itineraries across the Mediterranean, the Norwegian fjords, the Canary Islands and other European destinations.

« We are excited to introduce the French public to the Queen Victoria in her new version. The blend of Cunard’s iconic craftsmanship, a fully renovated vessel and itineraries carefully crafted across Europe make this experience a benchmark for sea holidays marked by elegance and escape » notes Emmanuel Joly, director of Cruisepro, Cunard’s general agent in France.

Read also : Cunard unveils 110 itineraries for its 2027-2028 season

Tahiti Nui Travel: Expert Romantic Getaways in French Polynesia

August 22, 2026 by Amara Nambinga

Intercontinental Thalasso Bora Bora © Damien Gobron

CroisiEurope

A dream setting for lovers…

With its 118 islands spread across five archipelagos, Polynesia offers an exceptionally diverse range of atmospheres: from the understated luxury of an overwater bungalow in Bora Bora to the warm simplicity of a lagoonfront guesthouse in Huahine or Raiatea.

Each island cultivates its own charm:

Bora Bora, the ultimate romantic icon, for its turquoise waters, spectacular sunsets, and open-air spas.

Taha’a, the vanilla island, for its soft scents and secluded lagoons.

Rangiroa or Tikehau, for adventurous lovers seeking a remote corner of the world.

Moorea, with its emerald mountains and coves perfect for two-person kayak escapades…

© Philippe Bacchet – Bora Bora aérien

Each year, thousands of couples choose the Fenua to celebrate their union, to experience their honeymoon, to renew their vows, or simply to treat themselves to a two-person getaway. While Bora Bora remains the iconic image of romance, the islands of Moorea, Taha’a, Huahine, Raiatea, and the atolls of the Tuamotus each offer a distinct atmosphere, allowing for the creation of unique itineraries according to travelers’ desires.

But a romantic journey is not limited to a postcard landscape. It is built around thoughtful attentions, a rhythm carefully designed, and experiences that will be etched into memory. It is precisely this expertise that Tahiti Nui Travel has been bringing to the service of travel agencies and tour operators for more than six decades.

More than 60 years of expertise serving tourism professionals

Conrad Bora Bora
© Marc Gérard Photography

Newlyweds seeking an exceptional sojourn, a couple celebrating a wedding anniversary, a symbolic ceremony on a private beach, a vow renewal in an intimate setting, or a romantic escape off the beaten path: every project receives meticulous, bespoke attention.

The teams work closely with their partners to deliver genuine added value, far beyond a mere hotel or activity booking.

The excellence of a journey also rests on the quality of the partners who make it possible.

Over time, Tahiti Nui Travel has cultivated privileged relationships with leading hotels, charming properties, family-run pensions, and also with many local providers: guides, skippers, photographers, florists, spas, organizers of traditional ceremonies, and private chefs…

This long-standing network now enables us to offer carefully selected experiences, while also providing the flexibility essential for delivering the most personalized projects.

Memories that stand the test of time

When the sun sets… the magic begins!

Imagine a couple boarding an elegant traditional outrigger canoe as the sun slowly sinks behind Moorea’s ridges.

To the rhythm of the ukulele and guitar, the voyage carries them to a private motu where time seems to stand still. On the beach, a few lanterns, torches, and a large bonfire create an intimate atmosphere.

A trusted partner before, during, and after the journey

Four Seasons Bora Bora © D.Riddle

More than a local provider, Tahiti Nui Travel becomes a true extension of its partners’ commercial teams.

Tahiti Nui Travel brings its expertise, on-the-ground knowledge, and partner network to tourism professionals who wish to offer their clients exceptional romantic journeys in French Polynesia.

Because a honeymoon, a wedding, or an anniversary is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, every project deserves special attention and flawless organization.

For travel agencies and tour operators, choosing Tahiti Nui Travel means opting for an experienced, attentive partner capable of designing fully customized journeys and turning every request into an unforgettable experience, worthy of the dreams that French Polynesia has inspired for ages.

Contact

Tahiti Nui Travel : L'expertise au service des plus beaux voyages romantiques en Polynésie française

Created in 1965, Tahiti Nui Travel is one of the oldest inbound agencies to the destination Tahiti and Its Islands and has since become the leading inbound agency with a team of more than 100 specialists. As an inbound tour operator, Tahiti Nui Travel is the unique, ideal solution providing more than 1,000 products and services to any partner seeking to promote and sell French Polynesia on their market.

For more information, please contact us at [email protected] .

Telephone: +689 40 46 41 41

https://tahitinuitravel.com/

>> Tahiti Nui Travel in the DESTIMAG Directory

Bali, Philippines and Malaysia: Stop Selling Unwanted Travel

August 22, 2026 by Amara Nambinga

CroisiEurope

Bali: the destination everyone already feels they’ve seen before departure

Bali has become a case study.

Everyone markets it. Everyone knows it. Everyone thinks they know it.

Before even booking a ticket, travelers have already watched hundreds of videos of Ubud, photos of the Tegalalang rice terraces, sunsets at Uluwatu, and infinity pools on Instagram.

The real challenge isn’t to introduce Bali anymore.

The challenge is to restore Bali’s ability to surprise.

Today, the main obstacle to selling isn’t price or competition. It’s the illusion of knowledge.

The client arrives with a preconstructed image of the destination. An image often idealized, sometimes distorted, but above all extremely precise.

In response to this, many offers keep piling up the same steps, the same excursions, and the same sales pitches.

Result: programs become interchangeable.

Yet Bali remains one of Asia’s richest destinations. But its value no longer lies solely in the places visited. It lies in how we reveal them to visitors.

Philippines: an extraordinary product that defies standards

The Philippines probably stands as one of the greatest paradoxes in Asian tourism.

Everyone agrees on the country’s exceptional beauty. Yet it remains often harder to sell than other, less spectacular destinations.

Why?

Because we still try to fit it into marketing schemes that don’t suit it.

The Philippines is not a classic circuit.

It isn’t a destination told through a logical sequence of steps.

It is an archipelago of more than 7,000 islands where each region possesses its own identity, its own rhythm, and its own personality.

Palawan isn’t Bohol.

Bohol isn’t Siargao.

Siargao isn’t Cebu.

And it is precisely this diversity that gives the country its strength.

Travelers don’t come solely for beaches or lagoons. They come seeking a sense of perpetual discovery, exploration, and freedom.

As long as the Philippines is sold as a simple beach circuit, it will remain commercially underexploited.

The destination isn’t complicated.

It’s our way of presenting it that has become so.

Malaysia: the most rational destination… therefore the least told

Malaysia suffers from nearly the opposite problem.

It may be the most complete destination in Southeast Asia.

It is modern.

It is accessible.

It is multicultural.

It has excellent infrastructure.

It blends modern cities, historic heritage, tropical nature, and beaches.

On paper, everything seems perfect.

And yet, it often remains in the shadows of its neighbors.

Why?

Because it generates fewer immediate fantasies.

In a world ruled by imagery, destinations that grab attention are often those that tell the simplest stories.

Bali evokes wellness.

The Philippines evokes paradise.

Malaysia, by contrast, is more subtle.

It demands more storytelling.

It demands more explanations.

It demands more staging.

Malaysia isn’t underestimated by travelers.

It is under-told by the market.

The real topic: clients no longer buy destinations

For a long time, selling a trip meant selling a place.

Today, this model is showing its limits.

Travelers don’t buy just a destination anymore.

They buy a projection.

They buy a future emotion.

They buy a story they will want to tell when they return.

They buy a sense of freedom.

They buy a feeling of exclusivity.

They buy the impression of living something that resembles them.

And that is precisely where the current misalignment lies.

A large portion of the tourism offering continues to describe itineraries while travelers seek experiences.

We keep selling kilometers while clients want memories.

We keep selling hotels while they seek emotions.

Bali, Philippines, Malaisie : arrêtons de vendre des voyages que personne ne veut vraiment acheter

Audrey Marc

Deputy Director France

+ 33 6 70 54 20 63

+ 33 1 61 30 30 06

[email protected]

jans.tours

>> JANS TOURS in the DESTIMAG Directory

Mountain Salt and Island Spices: Thailand and Sri Lanka

August 21, 2026 by Amara Nambinga

CroisiEurope

From mist-clad mountains to ancient salt wells, passing by safaris for wildlife viewing and contemporary art, this immersive experience reveals the stories, flavors, and inhabitants that make these two destinations truly unforgettable. Throughout the journey, travelers will encounter authentic local traditions, breathtaking landscapes, and enriching encounters that go far beyond the ordinary.

The journey begins in Chiang Mai, the historic city in the north of the country, where ancient temples, bustling markets, and the rich heritage of the Lanna culture set the tone for the adventure ahead. Explore the lively Warorot Market and wander the old town aboard a samlor, the traditional rickshaw, uncovering architectural treasures such as Wat Chedi Luang. One of the trip’s highlights is the ascent to the revered temple of Doi Suthep, perched above the city and offering a breathtaking panoramic view over the valley below.

Leaving the city, the itinerary continues through lesser-known cultural gems of northern Thailand, Phrae and Nan, where life slows down and authentic traditions come to life. Take part in a hands-on indigo dye workshop, visit tranquil shrines and teak temples beautifully preserved, and stroll through historic towns where wooden palaces and centuries-old frescoes tell the story of ancient kingdoms.

The journey then travels deeper into the mountains of Nan Province, where winding, scenic roads lead to panoramic viewpoints and secluded villages. In Bo Klua, old mountain salt mines — still active today — offer a fascinating glimpse into a centuries-old local industry, while the picturesque village of Sapan invites travelers to pause amid lush forests, rolling hills, and peaceful valley landscapes.

One of the highlights of this section is a stay at Visama Explorer Nan, an intimate ecolodge and cultural haven tucked away in the heart of the mountains. Here, travelers can slow the pace, connect with local communities, and fully immerse themselves in the tranquil rhythms of northern Thailand.

The adventure then takes a dramatic turn upon arriving in Sri Lanka, beginning with the wild landscapes of Wilpattu National Park. Staying in an elegant tented-lodge in the midst of nature, travelers embark on full-day safaris through one of the island’s best-preserved reserves. Renowned for its natural lakes and dense jungle, Wilpattu is home to elusive leopards, Asian elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, and an extraordinary variety of birds.

From wilderness to culture, the journey continues to Kandy, the historic capital perched in the hills. Explore lively local markets, stroll along the picturesque lake, and visit the revered Temple of the Tooth Relic, one of the world’s most sacred Buddhist sites. Engaging cultural encounters bring this destination to life, whether learning traditional Sri Lankan cuisine with a local family, sampling regional sweets, or discovering the graceful rhythms of Kandyan dance with a local maestro.

The final chapter unfolds in the cosmopolitan city of Colombo, where Sri Lanka’s many cultures mingle. Discover the city through the eyes of a local artist, exploring contemporary art galleries, vibrant street art, and emerging digital creations that reflect the island’s evolving creative scene. The journey culminates with an unforgettable culinary finale: a refined tasting menu that masterfully blends Sri Lankan spices with international techniques, creating a memorable celebration of the island’s flavors and culinary heritage.

From sacred temples and mountain villages to wildlife safaris, to artistic expression and exceptional cuisine, “Mountain Salt and Island Spice Across Thailand and Sri Lanka” is far more than a simple trip: it is an invitation to discover two extraordinary destinations through authentic connections, shared traditions, and unforgettable moments.

Sel de montagne et épices des îles : un voyage à travers la Thaïlande et le Sri Lanka

For more information, visit khiri.com or contact us at [email protected]. We look forward to meeting you and helping you craft enriching journeys across Asia.
> Khiri Travel Laos in the DESTIMAG Directory

> Khiri Travel Sri Lanka in the DESTIMAG Directory

Renowned Receptive Leaders Still Available This Summer

August 21, 2026 by Amara Nambinga

CroisiEurope

Your Leaders remain, of course, available and reachable :

36 EXPERTS AND THEIR TEAMS AT YOUR SERVICE 24/7!

(we indicate only the main destination)

ACQUAFORTE, Italy, Claudio : [email protected]

ARCHIPEL CONTACT, Indonesia, Sylvie : [email protected]

ASSISTANCE VISA, Visa, Bertrand : [email protected]

AU FIL DU JAPON, Japan, Gilles & Thierry : [email protected] & [email protected]

BWT, United Arab Emirates, Mohamad : [email protected]

BLEU MARINE, Cuba, Caribbean, Pierre : [email protected]

CAP COREE, Korea, Thierry & Gilles : [email protected] & [email protected]

CREATIVE TOURS, Cyprus, Christophe : [email protected]

CRUCEMUNDO, River cruises, Christian : [email protected]

DESTINATION EUROPE, Netherlands, Myriam : [email protected]

EASTERN EUROPEAN EXP., Romania, Stefan : [email protected]

EASTWIND HOLIDAYS, India, Ashok : [email protected]

EVASION ALBANIE, Albania, Alban : [email protected]

France ANGLETERRE, England, Claude (Mrs) : [email protected]

GEOTOURS, Canada, Gilles : [email protected]

GET YOUR GROUP, Germany, Eva : [email protected]

ICELAND ESCAPE, Iceland, Karim : [email protected]

IDEAL OPERATING, Corsica, Joël : [email protected]

KER MAROC, Morocco, Stéphane : [email protected]

KMP, Uzbekistan, Christian : [email protected]

MAGIC SENEGAL, Senegal, Fabienne : [email protected]

MEKONG TOUCH, Vietnam, Catia : [email protected]

MIRACLE OMAN TRAVEL, Oman , Malik & Christian : [email protected]

NOVAWAY, Thailand, Dorian : [email protected]

PASSAGERS ASSISTANCES SERVICES, Aéroport Assistance, Pascal : [email protected]

PACHA TOURS INTERNAT., Turkey, Berhan KAYA : [email protected]

PMA TRAVEL, Portugal, Filipe, Joel & Céline : [email protected]

PRAHA TOURS, Czech Republic, Majka : [email protected]

PROMENADA, Poland, Jurek : [email protected]

QUIMBAYA LATIN AMERICA, Amer. Lat., Raphael : [email protected]

SALMA TOURS, Jordan, Khaled : [email protected]

TAROT TOURS – GARRANAH, Egypt, Pascal : [email protected]

TRAVELSENSE, Tunisia, Anis & Farhat : [email protected]

& [email protected]

TRITRAVEL, Spain, Laurent : [email protected]

VERDE SICILIA, Sicily, Francesco : [email protected]

We are already preparing the major event of the new season: IFTM which will take place from September 15 to 17 in Paris.

This year, your 36 Receptive Leaders await you on more than 130 m2, offering nearly 100 destinations! Breakfasts and appetizers, VIP cocktails and numerous activities await you! Warm and professional atmosphere guaranteed!

Our Stand: J080

Today, we would like to introduce two of our members, Verde Sicilia and Tarot Tours Garranah:

Les fameux Réceptifs Leaders restent disponibles pendant l'été

The organization Verde SICILIA is a family-owned company founded in 2002, specializing in inbound tourism for groups and individuals, led by Loredana Giordano, Ivan Sabella, and represented in France by Francesco Bonfiglio.

The vocation is the marketing of southern Italy, Sicily and Sardinia from France.

It provides tourism services such as accommodation, on-site transport and guided tours, also through its integrated coach company.

As a receptive operator, the company mainly works with B2B partners, such as travel agencies, tour operators or corporate travel companies. Its presence with its own offices in Palermo and in Malta allows it to offer a full range of on-site services and to guarantee local assistance to clients.

The company has specialized expertise in these destinations and can propose itineraries and products tailored to the tastes and interests of French travelers.

The company’s production is seasonal. It focuses on the April-to-October period for the islands, corresponding to the peak tourist season in Italy.

Verde SICILIA is also positioned in the Spanish and Latin American markets with an Incoming activity.

We attend the IFTM fair every year (stand H084, 2023 edition)

The proposed programs include classic cultural circuits as well as various themed themes, transfers, hotels and resort centers and on-site excursions, but also individual self-guided tours.

Departures of on-site programs are planned according to flight arrival times at Palermo and Catania airports (nearly daily from Paris during the season, and based on 2/3 rotations per week from the provinces) to offer great flexibility to customers.

80 % of production is tailor-made for groups and individuals.

The Garranah Group was founded in 1979 and since then has maintained a high level of commercial operation with exceptional service and customer care.

GARRANAH is the family name of the founders, the personal guarantee of commitment to serving your business and your clients.

The assets of the Garranah Group are distributed across the following sectors:

Tarot Tours Garranah DMC

Mirotel for floating hotels

Azur Hotels and Resorts

Sun West Hotels and Resorts

KG for real estate and tourism investment

Tarot Tours Garranah for Transport

Tarot Garranah:

This is our DMC with the necessary expertise to manage regular travel programs, conferences, incentive trips, and it can also organize prize-giving ceremonies in traditional Egyptian settings.

Tarot Tours is ISO 9001 certified.

We handle and provide services to more than 300,000 clients annually and to 70% of the French market.

Our headquarters are in Cairo with local branches in Luxor, Aswan, Hurghada, Sharm el-Sheikh and Taba, covering Egypt’s major tourist destinations.

www.tarottours.com

Fleet of cruise ships, ships owned and operated:

– M/S Leonardo Da Vinci	5-star Deluxe	57 cabins
– M/S Star of Luxor	5-star Deluxe	54 cabins
– M/S Tarot	5-star	66 cabins
– M/S Nile Azur	5-star	62 cabins
– M/S Champollion I	5-star	51 cabins
– M/S Zahra	5-star Deluxe	27 Royal Suites

(M/S Zahra is managed by Oberoi Hotels and Resorts, the most luxurious ship on the Nile)

Tarot Garranah for Tourist Transport

We own a large fleet of touring buses and vans.

AZUR RESORTS & HOTELS

The hotel management company operating hotels and resorts located in Hurghada, Marsa Alam, Damietta and Sohag.

All properties are located directly on the Red Sea coastline and offer all-inclusive programs.

www.azur.travel

– Arabella Azur Resort	4-star	520 rooms
– Arabia Azur Resort	4-star	526 rooms
– Giftun Azur Resort	4-star	522 rooms
– Bel-Air Azur Resort	4-star	215 rooms
– Wadi Lahamy Azur	4-star	130 rooms
– Marlin Inn Azur	4-star	418 rooms
– Pharoah Azur	5-star	365 rooms
– Lamar Azur	4-star	122 rooms
– Diamant Azur	4-star	154 rooms

Sun West for the management of hotels and resorts :

Cairo

– Azal Pyramids Hotel

4-star

400 rooms

The Azal Pyramids Hotel is located in Cairo, in the Pyramids district, www.azalpyramids.com

– Land of Azal Dreams

5-star

300 rooms

The Azal Dream Land Hotel is located in Giza in the 6th October city and will be in service from January 2024

Hurghada :

– Elysee Dream Hotel

4-star

245 rooms

The Elysee Dream Hotel is located in Hurghada with a private beach based on an all-inclusive package.

Aswan / Abu Simbel :

– Azal Lagoons Resort

5-star

124 rooms

The Azal Lagoons Resort is a work of art located in Aswan Abu Simbel with breathtaking views of the Nile and motifs inspired by the pharaohs

Assouan Mango Island

The Garranah Group owns and operates its own private island located in the heart of Aswan, overlooking mountain dunes and landscapes beyond imagination.

Contact :

Pascal PONTOIS

[email protected]

Tel: +33 (0)682887219

20 years alongside tourism professionals
Receptifs Leaders: these days 36 members, including 34 DMCs and nearly 100 destinations + 2 service companies: Airport assistance & Visa.
Receptifs Leaders are a market reference, a true label of quality and mindset.

Christian Loth

President

[email protected] ou au 0635425175

www.receptifsleaders.com

UAE and Egypt: Two Exceptional Destinations with DAKKAK UAE’s Local Expertise

August 21, 2026 by Amara Nambinga

The United Arab Emirates: A Destination That Continues to Reinvent Itself

CroisiEurope

For several years, the United Arab Emirates have been among the most sought-after destinations for international travelers. Their success rests on a unique combination: ultra-high-level infrastructure, safety, quality of service, a sunny climate for much of the year, and a wealth of experiences on offer.

Far more than a shopping or seaside destination, the UAE now invites visitors to discover a preserved cultural heritage, spectacular desert landscapes, cosmopolitan cuisine and a multitude of activities suited to couples, families, groups and business travelers.

Each emirate has its own identity and enables a different kind of stay.

Dubai, the City of Experiences

A city of records and innovation, Dubai impresses with its futuristic architecture and vibrancy. Dominated by the silhouette of the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest tower, it attracts luxury enthusiasts as well as curious travelers eager to explore a destination that is continually evolving.

Beyond its famous shopping malls and prestigious hotels, Dubai also reveals a more authentic side. The historic Al Fahidi district, the Dubai Creek crossing aboard traditional abras, and the gold and spice souks bear witness to the emirate’s history before its dramatic ascent.

The experiences are plentiful: desert safari, dinner under the stars, a dhow cruise in the marina, a helicopter over Palm Jumeirah, a visit to the Museum of the Future, or a relaxing day on the Gulf beaches. Dubai proves itself as a destination capable of satisfying every desire.

Abu Dhabi: Elegance Between Tradition and Modernity

As the capital of the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi offers a calmer atmosphere where the art of living, culture and architecture harmoniously converge.

The majestic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque ranks among the finest monuments in the Arab world and is a must-see stop. Art lovers will also appreciate the Louvre Abu Dhabi, while the Qasr Al Watan presidential palace unveils the country’s history and traditions.

Families will find delight on Yas Island, with its international theme parks, while nature lovers can set off to explore the mangroves, pristine beaches, or the vast desert dunes.

Abu Dhabi beautifully embodies the balance between cultural heritage and contemporary development.

Beyond Dubai and Abu Dhabi: Emirates Still Lesser Known

The United Arab Emirates are far from limited to their two flagship cities. Ras Al Khaimah lures adventure enthusiasts with its mountains, hiking trails and the world’s longest zip line. Fujairah, bordered by the Indian Ocean, is renowned for its underwater life, beaches and wilder landscapes.

Sharjah, recognized as the cultural capital of the Emirates, offers immersion in history, museums and Arab traditions, while Ajman and Umm Al Quwain charm travelers seeking tranquility.

This diversity makes it possible to craft varied itineraries, tailored to all types of travelers.

Egypt: A Timeless Destination

Just a few hours by air from the Emirates, Egypt perfectly complements a trip to the Middle East.

For millennia, it has captivated the world with its exceptional heritage. The Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, Saqqara and the Grand Egyptian Museum are among the must-see sites for history enthusiasts.

Cairo also entices with its energy, historic districts, traditional markets and a booming culinary scene.

But Egypt is not limited to its capital.

A Nile cruise: an essential experience

Navigating between Luxor and Aswan remains one of the most beautiful ways to discover Egypt.

Along the Nile, travelers explore the temples of Karnak, Luxor, Edfu, Kom Ombo and Philae, guided by specialists who bring to life more than five thousand years of history.

Cruises combine comfort, cultural discovery and peaceful landscapes, offering an experience particularly appreciated by European travelers.

The Red Sea: relaxation and nature

To extend their stay, many travelers choose the Red Sea resort towns.

Hurghada, Marsa Alam and El Quseir offer an ideal setting for relaxation, water sports and scuba diving. The coral reefs are among the world’s finest and attract both beginners and experienced divers.

This blend of cultural heritage and seaside stays is one of the destination’s major strengths.

Dakkak UAE: your local partner for tailor-made journeys

Émirats arabes unis et Égypte : deux destinations d'exception, une expertise locale signée DAKKAK UAE

Meet us at IFTM!

To arrange a meeting, contact us at the following address: [email protected]

Contact Us

Mina MELAD

Chief Operating Officer

[email protected]

Laith ALEMAM

Chief Executive Officer

[email protected]

Address:

The Exchange Tower 1704 – Happiness St – Business Bay – Dubai – United Arab Emirates

www.dakkak.com

Audrey VIGUIER and Shannen LIU

Francophone Market Representation

[email protected]

+33 1 42 64 59 98

9 Villa Saint Michel, 75018, Paris, France

>> DAKKAK in the DESTIMAG Directory