Indian Ocean

'We need agents to call out unethical snorkelling excursions in the Maldives'

I’m treading water in the Indian Ocean surrounded by an 80-strong swarm of snorkellers. We’re in the South Ari Atoll, at the site of a manta ray “cleaning station”. Alongside me, anxious swimmers thrash about in lifejackets, as numerous boats – I count 17 – idle nearby. Feeling uneasy, I dive down briefly, just in time to watch a lone manta escape the chaos of flailing limbs and GoPros. An unruly free-for-all, it’s a far cry from the magical encounter I’d dreamed of. Resurfacing with a sinking feeling, I head back to the boat. I’ve seen enough.

From Mauritius to the Maldives: eight LUX* resorts to recommend to clients in 2026

If you’re seeking a one-of-a-kind experience that puts your clients at the heart of the destination, these LUX* resorts should be on your radar.

How one agency has cultivated a lucrative Maldives revenue stream

Sunlounger Travel is one of the top-selling travel agencies for Sun Siyam Resorts. Sian Freestone from the King’s Lynn branch explains how the agency has cornered the market for this versatile Maldivian hotel group

Mauritius: 'Come to us for high-end curated experiences'

Tourist board realigns its strategy with the global trend that has travellers seeking out more meaningful cultural experiences, as well as restorative and sensory-rich activities

Why UK business is booming for this Maldivian resort group

Ahead of Sun Siyam Resorts’ rebrand this month, we catch with chief executive Deepak Booneady to hear why the UK market is so important for the hotel group

Crystal partners with Abercrombie & Kent to offer new pre- and post-cruise extensions

The luxury cruise line’s new programme offers a wide range of land-based experiences before and after the voyage.

Virgin Atlantic to remove economy seats in bet on premium travel uplift

Virgin Atlantic will add more premium economy and business class seats on over half its fleet, targeting what it says is higher demand for more comfort

Hit the heights – a new way to escape in Sri Lanka’s tea country

Uga Halloowella has opened in Sri Lanka’s iconic Central Highlands and TTG Luxury was one of the first to take a look

Another day in paradise – JW Marriott launches second Maldives resort

First look at the new Maldives resort making waves in the region

The overseas wedding full of drama – and how an agent saved the day

When Claire Oliver’s clients chose Mauritius for their perfect day, their wedding turned into one of the most involved bookings the travel consultant has ever worked on

Hot new Middle East & Africa hotels agents need to know about

The diverse region has plenty of new properties on offer this year from Dubai’s latest palatial resorts to getting up close to Africa’s wildlife at safari camps

Mauritius reopens airport following Tropical Storm Garance but passengers advised to stay away

Garance was the strongest storm to hit the country since January 1989, with winds hitting speeds of 100mph

Tropical Storm Garance prompts Mauritius airport closure and Foreign Office alert

Mauritius shut its main international airport on Wednesday afternoon (26 February) while the nearby island of La Reunion will be placed under total lockdown later on Thursday (27 February)

Tui chief pins slow start to peaks on change in UK strategy

Tui’s boss has said a change in direction towards more dynamic packaging meant its January sales were slower than normal, with fixed capacity remaining tight and sold at higher margins

‘I'm no longer selling Mauritius only to honeymooners’

Agent Bridget Perriman won a Mauritius holiday in a Sunlife competition with TTG with her idea for an island treasure hunt – and she got to try it out herself

Advisor's one rule for multi-gen family travel success after six-figure trip

Global Travel Collection’s Danny Akhtar has 34 years of experience planning holidays for the super-rich.

Mauritius: the must-see highlights of the Indian Ocean paradise

There’s far more on this idyllic island for luxury clients than sun, sea and sand.

New year, new look for this stunning resort in the Maldives

Due to reopen in the first quarter of 2025, W Maldives has been entirely transformed and will welcome guests to a revamped luxury playground in the Indian Ocean

Mark Duguid: 'It's my job to make Kuoni a lot more contemporary and relevant'

Kuoni this week unveiled a rebrand it hopes will help it stand out in a ’sea of sameness’; managing director Mark Duguid talks TTG’s Gary Noakes through the reasoning

Kuoni hopeful brand revamp will distinguish it from 'sea of sameness'

Operator has detailed a significant image change as part of an attempt to widen its appeal beyond special occasion holidaymakers and Indian Ocean devotees

The Adventure People to sell through agents for the first time

The Adventure People is to work with the trade for the first time after designing its own tour itineraries

Meet the Maldives newcomer where clients are immersed in nature and wellness

A secluded retreat in the Indian Ocean, Villa Resorts’ latest property Villa Haven offers a sanctuary for guests where healing and hospitality come together

New luxury Maldives resort to place locals at the forefront of the guest experience

Villa Resorts Maldives says local people and culture are integral to its brand and will front the operation

First Class Holidays acquires African Pride and Knighton Reeve

Tailor-made specialist said the acquisition would enhance its long-haul portfolio