Cork based Travel Focus has once again claimed the Long Haul Tour Operator of the Year title at the 2026 Irish Travel Industry Awards for the third year in a row, reinforcing its position as a leading specialist in distant destinations for Irish holidaymakers.
The award, presented at the gala ceremony in Dublin’s Mansion House and organised by the Irish Travel Agents Association (ITAA) in association with MSC Cruises, saw Travel Focus triumph over a competitive shortlist including Bookabed/TBO, Classic Resorts, Discover Travel, and Sunway. in a category sponsored by Hertz, this recognition highlights the Cork-based operator’s consistent excellence in delivering bespoke, high-quality long-haul experiences.
Founded in 1998 by Noel McAuliffe, who remains its managing director and driving force, Travel Focus has grown from a niche specialist into a respected name in Ireland’s travel trade. McAuliffe, with decades of industry experience prior to launching the company, has steered Travel Focus towards a focus on customised holidays to the Caribbean, South Africa, the Indian Ocean islands (including Mauritius, Seychelles, and Maldives), the Far East, Australia, New Zealand, and North America. The operator prides itself on quality at value-for-money prices, offering tailored itineraries that suit individual preferences rather than mass-market packages.
Travel Focus maintains a strong, agent-centric presence in the Irish market. Based in Cork city, the company works closely with travel agencies nationwide, providing dedicated support through personal account management, competitive commissions, and responsive assistance for complex bookings. Agents benefit from expert knowledge on visa requirements, seasonal travel windows, and unique experiences—essential for selling high-value long-haul trips. Travel Focus participates actively in trade events, roadshows, and familiarisation trips, often in partnership with groups like Travel Partners Group (TPG), where McAuliffe and his team showcase destinations and build relationships.
Marketing activities are targeted and trade-focused. The operator produces detailed brochures and digital tools highlighting signature offerings: luxury beach escapes in the Maldives with overwater villas, safari adventures in South Africa combining Kruger National Park with Cape Town’s cultural highlights, and multi-centre journeys across Southeast Asia or the Pacific. Campaigns emphasise personalised service—agents can craft bespoke routes with private transfers, premium accommodations, and guided excursions—appealing to discerning Irish clients seeking authenticity and exclusivity.
Accessibility is enhanced through partnerships with airlines offering direct or convenient connections from Dublin, Cork, and Shannon. Travel Focus bundles flights, often with carriers like Emirates, Qatar Airways, or Etihad, into seamless packages that include airport transfers, insurance options, and add-ons like excursions or upgrades. This approach simplifies planning for agents handling clients’ dream holidays to far-flung locales.
Noel McAuliffe’s leadership has been pivotal. Known for his hands-on involvement and passion for travel, he has navigated challenges—including the pandemic’s impact on long-haul demand—by prioritising client and agent relationships. Travel Focus emerged resilient, with McAuliffe emphasising adaptability and quality. The company’s Irish-owned status resonates in the market, fostering loyalty among agents who value local expertise and personalised support over larger corporates.
Repeat business and word-of-mouth recommendations drive growth. Clients return for the operator’s attention to detail, from honeymoon suites in tropical paradises to multi-generational safaris or adventure tours in Australia. Agents praise Travel Focus for reliable after-sales service, quick responses to changes, and the ability to handle intricate itineraries with ease.
As long-haul travel continues to rebound strongly, Travel Focus invests in emerging destinations and sustainable options—such as eco-lodges in Africa or low-impact resorts in the Indian Ocean—to align with evolving preferences. McAuliffe’s vision ensures the company remains agile, offering innovative products while upholding its core promise of focused, exceptional service.
2026 awards
Previous winners
