Everyone looks forward to going on holiday, whether it’s a relaxing beach break or an exciting city escape.
The planning side, however, can sometimes feel a bit more time-consuming than expected. Choosing where to book, comparing options, and making sure everything runs smoothly can take more effort than you might think.
To help narrow things down, we’ve evaluated and listed five of the best global travel and tourism companies.
Each one offers something different, making it easier for you to find the right fit and focus on enjoying your trip.
1. TUI
TUI is one of the world’s largest travel and tourism companies, offering everything from flights and hotels to cruises and curated holiday experiences. With 15 core source markets across Europe, including the UK, Germany, and France, it has built a strong reputation for seamless, all-in-one travel planning.
Customers can book easily online, via the app, in one of 1,600 travel agencies, or through its contact centre. While abroad, the 24/7 TUI Experience Centre and app provide ongoing support and control.
Pros:
- Wide range of destinations worldwide.
- 400+ TUI-owned hotels across ~30 countries.
- ABTA and ATOL protection for peace of mind.
- Supported by 67,000 travel experts globally.
- Strong focus on sustainability, with millions of greener experiences.
Cons:
- Popular resorts can feel busy at peak times
- Prices can be higher during peak seasons.
Best for: All-inclusive holidays and package deals.
2. Hays Travel
Hays Travel is the UK’s largest independent travel agent, known for its strong high-street presence and customer-focused service.
While it doesn’t operate at the same global scale as companies like TUI, it stands out for offering a more personal, hands-on booking experience.
With hundreds of branches across the UK, customers can speak directly with travel consultants who help tailor holidays to individual needs and budgets.
Hays Travel places a strong emphasis on building relationships and providing ongoing support before, during, and after your trip. This human touch can make the booking process feel less overwhelming.
Pros:
- Personalised travel planning with one-to-one advice.
- Well-established and trusted within the UK market.
- Competitive deals on package holidays and cruises.
- Flexible payment options, including deposits.
- Access to a wide range of third-party tour operators.
Cons:
- Limited international presence compared to global travel groups.
- Less suited for travellers who prefer fully digital booking platforms.
Best for: Personalised travel advice and UK-based support.
3. Kenwood Travel
Kenwood Travel specialises in bespoke travel experiences, offering trips to destinations such as the Caribbean, Indian Ocean, and luxury city escapes. It’s known for combining carefully selected hotels with personalised itineraries, giving travellers a more refined and exclusive holiday experience.
While it doesn’t have the same mass-market scale as larger travel brands, Kenwood Travel stands out for its attention to detail and specialist knowledge. Its travel experts work closely with customers to create tailored trips, often including upgrades, added extras, and insider recommendations that enhance the overall experience.
This makes it particularly appealing to honeymooners, couples, and travellers looking for something beyond a standard package holiday.
Pros:
- High-end travel experiences.
- Strong partnerships with luxury resorts.
- Customisable itineraries.
- Expert destination knowledge.
Cons:
- Higher price point.
- Fewer budget-friendly options.
Best for: Luxury and tailor-made holidays.
4. Expedia
Expedia is a global online travel platform that lets users book flights, hotels, car rentals, and activities through a single website or app. It is widely used by travellers who prefer a self-service approach, giving them full control over how they plan and manage their trips.
Access to thousands of airlines, hotels, and travel providers worldwide makes it easy to compare prices, read reviews, and customise travel arrangements. Bundled deals can help reduce overall costs, especially when booking flights and accommodation together.
The platform is designed for convenience, offering a user-friendly website and mobile app where travellers can manage bookings, receive updates, and make changes while travelling.
Pros:
- Easy-to-use platform with global reach.
- Ability to compare multiple options quickly.
- Frequent deals and bundled discounts.
- Flexible booking options.
Cons:
- Customer service can be inconsistent.
- Refund processes may take time.
Best for: Flexible online bookings and travel comparisons.
5. Voyage Privé
Voyage Privé is a members-only travel club that gives access to discounted luxury holidays, including high-end hotels, resorts, and curated travel experiences. It is designed for travellers who want premium stays at more competitive prices, without compromising on quality.
Members receive access to limited-time offers that are carefully selected, often featuring added extras such as upgrades or exclusive perks. The platform appeals to those who are flexible with dates and destinations, as deals are released in flash-sale style and can change frequently.
The booking process is straightforward, with a digital-first approach that allows users to browse and secure offers quickly. This makes it a convenient option for spontaneous trips or last-minute luxury escapes.
Pros:
- Significant discounts on premium hotels.
- Access to exclusive luxury deals.
- Curated travel experiences.
- Ideal for spontaneous bookings.
Cons:
- Limited availability and time-sensitive offers.
- Requires membership sign-up.
Best for: Exclusive luxury deals at discounted prices.
How to Choose the Right Travel Company for Your Trip
A good way to choose is by matching the travel company to your personal travel style rather than focusing only on size or popularity.
Think about what matters most to you, whether that is convenience, flexibility, budget, or having someone guide you along the way.
Some travellers prefer everything organised for them, while others enjoy planning every detail themselves.
Taking a little time to figure out your priorities can make things feel easier and help you book a trip that truly suits you.