Hello agents!
Here’s your Weekly Compass — your go-to briefing for what’s happening across the travel trade. As we edge toward November, booking patterns remain steady, with clients mixing late-winter getaways and early 2026 long-haul plans. Supplier tech innovation is in full swing, and there’s a renewed energy in trade marketing, giving consultants plenty to leverage. Let’s explore this week’s headlines and opportunities.
✈️ Industry Snapshot
- Brand USA has launched its new global tourism campaign “America the Beautiful”, with the UK as a priority market. The timing aligns with major 2026 events such as the FIFA World Cup, Route 66 centenary, and the USA’s 250th anniversary.
Implication: Perfect time to push tailor-made USA itineraries; expect strong client appetite and supplier marketing support. - Riviera Travel unveiled its digital assistant “Riva AI” to help agents craft itineraries, handle objections, and streamline content. Rollout starts 12 November.
Implication: A clear signal suppliers are investing in agent tools — position yourself as tech-savvy and responsive. - TUI UK reports that, despite wider economic caution, travel demand is resilient, with capacity holding firm but bookings coming later.
Implication: Anticipate shorter lead times; stay flexible and proactive in follow-ups. - The luxury travel sector continues to outperform, as affluent clients prioritise experience and service over discounts.
Implication: Focus on value, expertise, and curated exclusivity — not price. - Operators say the recent ESTA fee increase is unlikely to dampen demand for the US.
Implication: Keep promoting long-haul confidently; highlight reasons to book early. - Trade suppliers are prioritising AI and digital innovation — from content creation to itinerary automation.
Implication: Keep learning these tools to future-proof your service offering. - Late bookings remain a core trend in the UK market.
Implication: Maintain live deal awareness and communicate urgency tactfully. - Experience-led marketing is outperforming generic destination pushes.
Implication: Tell stories; connect clients emotionally to their holidays. - Consultant sentiment remains high, with strong satisfaction across the independent trade.
Implication: Keep that enthusiasm visible in client comms — positivity sells. - With the peak season prep now under way, supplier training and tech familiarisation are top priorities.
Implication: Invest time now in learning platforms and systems to gain an early-2026 edge.
🌎 Destination of the Week: The USA
With Brand USA’s new campaign spotlighting “America the Beautiful”, the United States is once again at the forefront of British travellers’ minds. From city breaks to national parks, the focus is on stories, people, and authentic connections.
How to position it:
- Blend classic icons (New York, California, Florida) with fresh regional angles such as the Deep South, New England or the Pacific Northwest.
- Use the buzz around 2026 events to drive early interest and deposits.
- Emphasise your role as a trusted curator who can piece together multi-centre, bespoke itineraries with flexible pricing.
💡 Consultant Opportunity
This week’s opportunity is around marketing your flexibility and technology advantage. Late-booking clients still want reassurance — highlight that you can create bespoke packages quickly using cutting-edge tools and insider trade systems.
Try a short social or email campaign: “Still time to plan your 2026 escape — I’ll handle every detail so you can relax.”Add three enticing ideas (e.g. USA adventure, short-haul luxury, cruise-and-stay) and invite quick calls to action.
🧭 Updates from The Independent Travel Consultants
We’re delighted to unveil our brand-new Intranet System, built this weekend — your central hub for running your travel business smoothly and confidently.
Inside, you’ll find:
- Secure supplier password access (each sheet individually protected).
- The Dynamic Packaging System – currently in beta, ideal for exploring suppliers and building sample holidays (not yet for live bookings).
- Direct links to trade supplier social groups to keep you updated on training, incentives, and product news.
- Handy reminders of the booking process, downloadable Booking Terms & Conditions, and the Holiday Margin Validator.
- Quick access to Webmail, PTS.cloud, Protected Payment Services, and the Jamie Wake Travel staff login(where the live packaging system operates).
This platform will evolve with more resources and shortcuts as our community grows.
Your login details will land in your inbox this week — keep an eye out!
🧠 Skill of the Week: Handling Late-Booking Objections
When a client says, “We’ll wait; prices might drop,” acknowledge their caution but maintain control. Try:
“That makes total sense — what I can do is secure this option now with flexible terms and monitor it for you. That way, you lock the availability but keep the freedom to adjust.”
By blending reassurance with proactivity, you protect the lead while proving your value. Add trade insight to sound authoritative:
“Given how late bookings are trending and limited space on key routes, it’s smart to reserve early — I’ll handle all the details so you stay stress-free.”
This approach keeps conversations warm and conversions high.
🌟 Motivation Boost
“Our service isn’t just about the next booking — it’s about clients remembering you because you made it effortless for them.” — Jamie Wake
Take a moment this week to reflect on one client success that made you proud. That positive energy fuels confidence and authenticity in every new interaction. You’re not just selling holidays — you’re building trust that lasts.
📝 Blog Round-Up
Fresh reads from our blog:
- Why Blogging Still Works for Travel Homeworkers – How consistent blogging builds visibility and authority.
https://www.independenttravelconsultants.co.uk/why-blogging-still-works-for-travel-homeworkers - Creating Seasonal Campaigns for Halloween, Bonfire Night & More – Make the most of autumn themes in your marketing.
https://www.independenttravelconsultants.co.uk/creating-seasonal-campaigns-for-halloween-bonfire-night-more - Should You Use WhatsApp for Business? Pros and Cons – Exploring the dos and don’ts of client messaging.
https://www.independenttravelconsultants.co.uk/should-you-use-whatsapp-for-business-travel-pros-and-cons - How to Set Goals for Your Travel Business — and Actually Hit Them – A practical look at goal-setting and accountability.
https://www.independenttravelconsultants.co.uk/how-to-set-goals-for-your-travel-business-and-actually-hit-them - What Are FAM Trips — and How Do You Get Invited? – Understanding the value of fams and how to secure them.
https://www.independenttravelconsultants.co.uk/what-are-fam-trips-and-how-do-you-get-invited - How to Use Canva to Design Eye-Catching Holiday Promotions – Step-by-step design ideas for your social feed.
https://www.independenttravelconsultants.co.uk/how-to-use-canva-to-design-eye-catching-holiday-promotions - Creating a Monthly Newsletter Your Clients Will Actually Read – Boost engagement with better client updates.
https://www.independenttravelconsultants.co.uk/creating-a-monthly-newsletter-your-clients-will-actually-read
Thank you for reading this week’s Weekly Compass. Stay informed, inspired, and ready to seize every opportunity.
With you, every step of the journey – Ava Wake
