Explore launches ‘Upgraded’ range featuring premium hotels and experiences

Explore said the range had been well received within the trade, and promised agents social media assets and window cards to help them sell the range.

Agency sales manager Philippa Baines told TTG: “I’m confident this exciting range of Upgraded trips will be extremely well received by our trade partners.

"Many have been asking for additional premium options, and this selection truly delivers without compromising any of Explore’s original features.”

Accommodation options prioritise location and, where possible, locally owned and run hotels to retain tourism spend in local economies.

Hotels will typically be four-star rather than three-star, Explore said, and the new tours will also feature a special welcome meal on day two or three of the itineraries.

The small adventure specialist, which became B Corp Certified in February 2024, has included at least one “stand-out” experience in each Upgraded tour.

Explore managing director Michael Edwards added: “We created this collection of premium accommodation tours to retain the authenticity of our standard Explore trips, but with a little more comfort to come back to at the end of a day’s adventures.

"The trips are still very immersive and experiential, and we’ve worked hard to bring them in at a very competitive price point. They’re ideal for the traveller that would like extra comfort, or something a bit special.”