And yet last week we had a glimmer of hope, at least for the cruise industry. Clia, in partnership with the Department for Transport, has released a new “Covid-19 framework”, setting out guidance for cruise lines ahead of a resumption of operations.

True, it remains unclear as to when this resumption will actually be. But the fact it has received support from new maritime minister Robert Courts, who describes the guidance as “an important step forward to allow cruises to prepare to set sail when safe to do so”, is cause for optimism.

There are other reasons to be positive this week, as TTG announces the return of TTG Top 50.

It’s a decision the team deliberated over, recognising the immense challenges currently facing the travel trade but also understanding just how instrumental TTG Top 50 has been in boosting business for previous winners.

This year more than ever, we know travel agents have demonstrated their value – from repatriating clients stranded abroad when Covid hit to working all hours to fight  for refunds on behalf of customers.

TTG Top 50 2021 will be a recognition of this and a whole lot more, with a new shortened assessment form to reduce agents’ workload.

“This will be a great opportunity for us to take stock and reflect on all our hard work and how we supported our customers this year,” Lee Hunt of Deben Travel, the UK and Ireland’s No.1 Agency 2020 told TTG. “It’s nice to have something like this to aim for.”

We hope you agree. And we look forward to welcoming you to the TTG Top 50 2021 ceremony at the Vox in Birmingham (or live from your own home), in March.