Travel Chaos for UK Tourists: Agency Shutdown Leads to Cancellations for Disney and Major Destinations

Published on April 3, 2026

Simply Florida Travel Ltd, a Glasgow-based travel agency known for offering holiday packages to popular destinations such as Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, New York City, and Toronto, has ceased operations, leaving hundreds of holidaymakers stranded. The company, which also offered cruises and trips to Niagara Falls and Miami, was officially dissolved on January 6, 2026, and its website has been taken offline.

The sudden closure of the travel agency has caused significant disruption for those who had booked flights and holiday packages through the company. Customers have been left without their planned trips, as all holidays have been cancelled. While Simply Florida Travel operated under the protection of the Air Travel Organisers' Licensing (ATOL) scheme, customers are now facing a complex process to claim refunds and arrange alternate travel plans.

What Led to the Closure of Simply Florida Travel?

The closure of Simply Florida Travel was not due to insolvency or financial failure. According to a spokesperson from the Travel Network Group, the owner of the business made a personal decision to shut down the company after fulfilling all existing customer commitments. The company applied to be struck off the register of businesses in October 2025, and by January 2026, it had officially ceased trading.

Despite the suddenness of the closure, the Travel Trust Association (TTA) confirmed that there were no outstanding bookings and no claims process required for customers who had made reservations. The majority of bookings made by Simply Florida Travel prior to its closure had been successfully fulfilled.

Impact on Customers and the Broader UK Travel Industry

The collapse of Simply Florida Travel highlights a broader issue in the UK travel industry, where several other agencies, such as Regen Central Ltd and Gold Crest Holidays, have also ceased operations in recent months. The closures have left hundreds of travelers facing uncertainty, especially with the added challenge of navigating the complex process of securing refunds and rebooking holidays.

For tourists, particularly those planning trips to destinations like Disney World, Universal Studios, New York, and Toronto, the closure is a major blow. Many families who had booked holidays in advance are now scrambling to make alternate arrangements. While the TTA has provided some reassurances about refunds, the situation remains fluid, and customers must reach out to their respective insurance companies or the TTA for more details.

What Should Affected Travelers Do Next?

For travelers who had holidays booked through Simply Florida Travel, the first step is to contact the TTA for any refund or compensation options. Customers are encouraged to reach out to their insurers to understand their coverage under the ATOL scheme, especially if they paid for the trip via credit card. Here are some essential steps:

The Broader Impact on the Travel Industry and Business Travelers

For business travelers who had booked trips to the US or Canada, the shutdown of Simply Florida Travel presents a significant challenge. Business trips to major cities like New York, Miami, and Toronto could now require urgent rebooking or rearranging of itineraries. The collapse of a trusted travel provider also creates additional logistical hurdles for companies, particularly for those relying on seamless travel coordination for international events, meetings, and conferences.

For the broader tourism industry, the continued closure of travel agencies like Simply Florida Travel raises concerns about the stability and reliability of smaller agencies. Travelers, especially those looking to book package holidays or specialized tours, are encouraged to research agencies thoroughly before making bookings.

Quick Travel Tips for UK Tourists Affected by Travel Disruptions:

Looking Ahead: Ensuring a Safer Travel Experience

While the closure of Simply Florida Travel highlights the risks of booking with smaller travel providers, it also emphasizes the importance of choosing established, reliable agencies with strong financial backing and reputable customer service. For future travels, it's crucial for tourists and business travelers alike to thoroughly research their options and ensure they are protected with robust travel insurance coverage.

As the travel industry continues to recover from the disruptions caused by the pandemic and ongoing economic pressures, travelers can expect to see more shifts in how travel agencies operate. Staying informed, proactive, and prepared for unexpected changes can help ensure a safer and more reliable travel experience in the future.