UK Travel Agency Collapses, Cancelling All Tours and Flights
A UK-based travel agency focusing on Asian destinations has officially ceased operations, leaving many customers stranded. The company, which recently operated as Asiara Holidays, was known for offering tours to popular locations such as Thailand, China, India, Japan, and Singapore.
Asiara Holidays Goes Into Administration
Originally established as Haivenu Tours in Vietnam, Asiara entered the UK market in 2022. However, the company’s financial troubles became evident when it filed to be struck off the Companies House register in October 2023. Its dissolution was completed on January 13, 2024, and the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) confirmed that the firm ceased trading effective January 21, 2024.
Impact on Customers
As a result of the company closure, all tours and flights booked with Asiara Holidays have been cancelled. Customers are now relying on refunds facilitated through ATOL (Air Travel Organisers Licensing) and Protected Trust Services (PTS). Despite the cancellation, the Asiara website remains operational, which adds confusion for affected travelers.
For assistance, customers are encouraged to contact PTS directly via email at [email protected].
Industry-Wide Concerns
Asiara’s shutdown is part of a troubling trend within the travel industry. Several travel agencies, including Regen Central Ltd, Gold Crest Holidays, and Simply Florida Travel Ltd, have also ceased operations in 2026. This follows a wave of collapses in 2025, which affected companies such as Ickenham Travel Group Ltd and Jetline Travel Ltd.
Global Travel Agency Closures
The challenges are not exclusive to the UK. Various international agencies, such as Unitravel Kft from Hungary, Canada’s Vegas Vacations, and Iceland’s Tango Travel, have also gone bankrupt in the past year due to major company liquidations and increased competition from larger entities.
Your Rights as a Customer
- Customers are entitled to a full refund if their package holiday is cancelled.
- ATOL protects customers who book packages including flights, covering refunds for travel arrangements.
- Claims for separate bookings, like car rentals, may not be covered.
The CAA offers guidance for those affected by the collapse of a travel agency. Individuals who possess valid airline tickets may still be able to travel, but should prepare for potential expenses related to replacement services.
For more information on navigating travel cancellations or to share personal stories related to travel disruptions, customers are advised to reach out to the relevant authorities or organizations.
