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As the way we travel continues to evolve, one thing has never felt more important - the need to truly escape. More and more, we’re choosing meaningful experiences over material things, seeking moments that inspire, restore and stay with us long after we return home.
Introducing Escape - our spring magazine designed to ignite your imagination and open the door to your next unforgettable journey.
Within its pages, you’ll discover a curated collection of hand-picked holidays and special departures across the globe, from iconic cities and breathtaking coastlines to immersive cultural experiences and far-flung adventures. Whether you’re dreaming of a relaxing ocean voyage, a once-in-a-lifetime tour, or simply time away to recharge, there’s something here to inspire every kind of traveller.
With a wide selection of expertly chosen escapes and fantastic savings to enjoy, there’s never been a better time to start planning.
So, where will your next escape take you? Explore Escape today and let the journey begin.
The Evolution of the Escape
The idea of a “holiday” began with religious holy days - moments to pause, gather, and celebrate. For centuries, travel itself was a luxury, reserved for the few, whether visiting the coast for fresh air or embarking on grand European tours.
Everything changed with the rise of the railways in the 19th century, opening up seaside escapes to the masses and marking the beginning of leisure travel as we know it. Soon after, pioneers like Thomas Cook introduced the first organised trips, making holidays more accessible than ever before.
By the 20th century, paid leave and the growth of air travel transformed holidays into a shared experience, with more people exploring further afield than ever before.
Today, escape means something deeply personal. From once-in-a-lifetime adventures to restorative getaways, modern travel is shaped by individuality, inspiration, and a desire for meaningful experiences.
Escape your 9-5
With the average career now spanning over 40 years, the way we think about travel is changing. The once-common idea of saving those “once-in-a-lifetime” trips for retirement is giving way to something far more exciting - taking them now, while the world feels full of possibility.
Today’s travellers are choosing to weave extraordinary experiences into their lives much earlier, embracing adventure while they have the energy to explore further, dive deeper and truly immerse themselves in each destination.
Because the truth is, the most meaningful journeys aren’t just about where you go - they’re about the moments you collect along the way. The sunsets you didn’t rush, the places that took your breath away, the memories that stay with you long after you return home. So rather than waiting for “someday”, why not make it part of your story now?
Escape your Four Walls
Home has taken on a new meaning in recent years - and so too has the idea of travelling together. With more young adults living at home for longer or returning after their studies, family life is evolving, and so are the holidays we choose to take.
Increasingly, parents are setting off on adventures with their grown-up children, sharing experiences not as dependents, but as equals - exploring the world side by side, creating memories that feel richer, deeper and more meaningful than ever before.
Because some of life’s most special moments are those spent together, away from the everyday. Whether it’s discovering new cultures, unwinding in beautiful surroundings, or simply enjoying uninterrupted time in each other’s company, these shared escapes become stories you’ll reminisce about for years to come.
Escape Further than Before
For those ready to venture beyond the familiar, a new world of travel is opening up. Mid-haul destinations - just a little further afield - are capturing the imagination of travellers seeking something different, without going too far.
With just a few extra hours in the air, you can find yourself in places rich with culture, striking landscapes and incredible value, where your time away feels even more rewarding. From the vibrant souks of Morocco to the dramatic scenery of Iceland or the sun-soaked shores of Croatia and Montenegro, these destinations offer a refreshing alternative to the usual. Many enjoy longer seasons and fewer crowds, giving you the freedom to travel outside the peak and experience each place at its very best.
Your booking bonus
Every Experts’ Pick holiday comes with an added extra - our way of making your trip even more special. It could be access to an airport lounge, a free tour or a complimentary upgrade for example. Think of it as a finishing touch to an already perfect holiday, included at no extra cost.
MUST BOOK BY 31ST OCTOBER 2025^
Give us a call or contact us today to tailor-make your dream holiday.
Order Your [un]packed 2026 Brochure
Inside our brochure, you'll find itineraties that reflect these trends - not just holidays, but thoughtfully curated journeys designed to immerse, enrich and surprise.
These are the travel trends that shaped our year - and the people who shaped them. From slow mornings by the water to multi-stop adventures built for curiosity, this is how the world travelled, experienced, and connected in 2025.
At Fred. Holidays, we believe your curiosity shapes your journey. That’s why we’ve created travel styles to reflect how you explore the world—whether you chase flavours, follow maps, or drift through destinations slowly. Your kind of curious deserves a holiday crafted around it.
Why it’s trending: No-fly cruises from UK ports like Southampton, Dover, and Tilbury are on the rise as travellers seek convenience and sustainability. Skipping the airport cuts hassle for families, makes travel easier for cruisers, and reduces the carbon footprint - all while offering the same world-class cruise experience right from the UK.
Why it’s trending: British travellers love value, and cruise lines are stepping up with all-inclusive pricing. Drinks, Wi-Fi, tips, and even excursions are bundled in, taking the guesswork out of budgets and making holidays smoother and more enjoyable.
Why it’s trending: Expedition cruising is booming as UK travellers seek adventure with a touch of luxury. Small ships and expert guides open up remote destinations like the Arctic and Galápagos, offering intimate, once-in-a-lifetime experiences far from the usual tourist trail.
Why it’s trending: Travellers want more than just a getaway – they’re seeking meaning, connection, and stories to share. With wellness retreats, culinary voyages, and themed sailings, cruises are evolving into richer, more experiential journeys.
Why it’s trending: Younger travellers are reshaping cruising, seeking wellness, flexibility, and authentic experiences over tradition. Boutique, luxury, and river cruises stand out with immersive itineraries and a personalised touch.
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