P&O Cruises to Host Some of the UK's Top TV Talents Onboard

28th Jan 2023 0

According to a press release, P&O Cruises will host some of the UK's top TV personalities onboard. According to the cruise line, the newest additions to the P&O Cruises Presents: Sail with the Stars excursion, which features renowned UK stars from a variety of hobbies, are Helen Skelton, Jay Blades, and Ross Kemp. The Ventura will go to Western Europe in May 2023 for the unique TV talent cruise, which is included in the cruise fare. With presenters Helen Skelton of Blue Peter and Countryfile, Jay Blades of BBC's The Repair Shop, and actor and documentary maker Ross Kemp, guests will have the chance to learn what goes on behind the camera.  

Avianca To Introduce New Route From Bogota to Palmerola

25th Jan 2023 0

On 26th March 2023, Avianca will introduce a brand-new transatlantic route linking Palmerola and Bogotá. This will be the third flight by Avianca, which already operates flights twice weekly from Guatemala City and five weekly from San Salvador, to Palmerola's eleventh destination. On this new route, Avianca will run four flights per week, leaving from Bogotá at 14:00 on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. These days, the return trip leaves Palmerola at 17:20 and returns to Colombia at 21:00. (Local times) Palmerola International depends heavily on this route. The new airport's initial stop in South America is Bogotá. Additionally, from the airline's hub in Bogota, customers flying with Avianca will be able to connect to 48 destinations. The opening of this new route marks an important turning point for the new hub, according to Peter Fleming, general manager of Grupo EMCO's division for the new Palmerola airport. “We were working together with Avianca for months to launch this route. The main goal was always to connect Honduras directly to South America. We are also helping achieve the government’s goals, which are to improve the country's connectivity, tourism, and foreign investment,” Fleming said. By April, Avianca will provide flights from Bogota's El Dorado International to 54 locations. The national airline of Colombia will offer 1,244 weekly flights to 19 local and 35 foreign locations. The primary domestic destinations for Avianca out of Bogotá will be Medellin (139 weekly flights), Cali (138), and Cartagena (103). Internationally, they will include Miami (28), Lima (28) and seven additional cities (including Madrid, Mexico City, and So Paulo) with 21 flights per week.    

Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts Launches in Bangladesh

21st Jan 2023 0

In collaboration with Doreen Hotels & Resorts, IHG Hotels & Resorts has opened its first Crowne Plaza hotel in Bangladesh in the center of Gulshan 2, the most important central commercial and residential zone in Dhaka. With more than 400 properties in important cities and resort destinations across 65 countries, Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts is one of the biggest premium hotel brands in the world. The Crowne Plaza is renowned for its Work/Life blend, encouraging guests to move seamlessly between business and leisure with purposeful multi-functional rooms, flexible workspaces, inspired restaurant and dining experiences, and energizing social spaces. Crowne Plaza has a deep understanding of the needs of today's global traveler. IHG has contributed to the growing metropolis by opening the first Crowne Plaza hotel in Bangladesh in this genuinely distinctive capital city that is overflowing with Bengali cultural traditions, while Dhaka continues to be a sought-after destination for both business and gateway for leisure travelers. Multitasking visitors can effortlessly complete what they need to while traveling thanks to the thoughtfully built communal spaces, guestrooms, and suites. Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport is 25 minutes away by car from Crowne Plaza Dhaka Gulshan, which also offers easy access to some of the region's most popular sights. The hotel will be a fantastic option for leisure travelers because it is located in a wealthy neighborhood and is easily accessible from the city center, shopping centers, and popular restaurants. Crowne Plaza Dhaka Gulshan will also be a great choice for those traveling to Dhaka for business, as the very protected Gulshan zone also houses numerous embassies, expat living areas, corporate houses, and head offices of Banks. 149 modern, spacious guest rooms and suites with elegant furniture and a complete complement of amenities are designed for optimal comfort and convenience. The hotel's focal point is a collection of creative eateries and bars. The venues' diverse menus are created by skilled chefs, giving customers a wide range of options. The Deli is a pleasant, happy spot in the lobby where you can enjoy baked goods and delicious treats along with traditional coffee and tea options. Oasis Lounge: A relaxed setting with homemade drinks & sweets that is great for conversation. The Flair is an all-day dining establishment where patrons may indulge in scrumptious Asian, Indian, and Western flavors. The Beast is a gourmet steakhouse serving Latin American cuisine on the 26th floor, where patrons can dine in a cozy, wood-paneled dining room while admiring Dhaka's picturesque skyline. The hotel has a welcoming rooftop free-form outdoor swimming pool, terrace, and tanning area. The hotel gym provides 24-hour exercise with cardio and strength equipment, as well as individualized holistic support. Aside from memorable weddings, social gatherings, and huge business conferences, banqueting and meeting rooms are also offered. The meeting spaces include a ballroom and several conference spaces that can hold 150–200 people.

Ryanair Offers 6 New Routes from Stansted for Summer 2023

17th Jan 2023 0

Six new routes have been added to Ryanair's summer 2023 timetable out of Stansted. Asturias, Belfast, Cornwall (Newquay), Edinburgh, Klagenfurt, and Leipzig are among the new locations. The airline will fly to Belfast twice daily, Edinburgh three times daily, Klagenfurt twice weekly, and the other new destinations three times weekly. The extra routes increase the airline's overall summer 2023 operation from Stansted, Gatwick, and Luton airports to 180 destinations. According to Ryanair, there will be 3,000 weekly flights, a 10% increase from summer 2022. Michael O'Leary, the company's CEO, said: “Our schedule has grown 10% on last summer, with 3,000 weekly flights scheduled across more than 180 routes, including six new sunshine destinations and increased frequencies on 30 other popular routes like Berlin, Malaga, Majorca, Nantes and Palma.” O'Leary continued by pleading with the government to abolish air passenger duty (APD), claiming that a 50% reduction on domestic flights beginning in April will not be sufficient to "boost traffic and tourist recovery from the UK." “While the halving of APD on domestic flights from April 2023 has allowed Ryanair to add more domestic routes to our UK schedule for summer 2023, if we are to continue to grow and drive traffic and tourism recovery from the UK, prime minister Sunak should immediately scrap APD for all travel and provide incentives for airlines like Ryanair to stimulate growth and recovery for the UK, including London,” he said.    

Hyatt Regency London Albert Embankment is Now Open in London

13th Jan 2023 0

The Hyatt Regency London Albert Embankment has opened, according to Hyatt Hotels Corporation. The 142-room hotel is the eighth Hyatt-branded establishment in London, reiterating Hyatt's ambitious and strategic ambitions for brand growth in the UK through 2023 and beyond. The Hyatt Regency London Albert Embankment serves to the numerous visitors and World of Hyatt members searching for hassle-free stays in the heart of London thanks to its ideal riverside position and close proximity to the city's most renowned attractions. Westminster, the political hub of the capital and home to attractions like the Houses of Parliament, Trafalgar Square, and Big Ben, is five minutes' walk from the hotel. The South Bank, an area renowned for its top-notch arts and cultural events, is accessible from the hotel by a short stroll along the River Thames, and neighboring Vauxhall Station offers direct access to many of the city's key transportation hubs. Guestrooms A total of 142 well-appointed, contemporary guestrooms make the most of the exceptional riverbank site, with many offering floor-to-ceiling windows that allow immersive views of the city's famed cityscape. A variety of executive suites are available on the 14th floor and feature king-size bedrooms, roomy, contemporary bathrooms, and cozy living rooms. They also come with a private balcony from which visitors can take in unrivaled views of London. Dining POTUS bar and restaurant offers a varied and unusual cuisine of old British favorites alongside conventional North American classics for people seeking a multipurpose environment to share, mingle, and collaborate. In the meantime, Mezemiso, a rooftop restaurant, cocktail bar, and shisha terrace, delivers genuine Lebanese and Japanese cuisine to create an unparalleled dining experience while savoring the city's breathtakingly high vistas. Amenities The hotel's additional amenities are a reflection of the Hyatt Regency brand's dedication to promoting efficiency and tranquility. This includes a fitness center on-site equipped with the newest Technogym machines and five technology-enabled meeting rooms that have been designed to inspire connection. Together, these spaces provide 15,273 square feet (1,419 square meters) of meeting space for a variety of events, from business conferences to group gatherings. Ivan Drinkwater - Cannon Corporate spokesperson, said: "We are pleased about the collaboration with Hyatt to open Hyatt Regency London Albert Embankment. The hotel is set to be the destination of choice for the millions of business and leisure travelers who visit this corner of London each year. Our team is ready to provide them with intuitive service and elevated experiences amongst the bustle of one of the city's most popular areas." The 13th hotel in the UK with a Hyatt affiliation will be the Hyatt Regency London Albert Embankment. and the eighth in the city of London, joining the Hyatt Regency London - The Churchill, Great Scotland Yard Hotel, which is a part of The Unbound Collection by Hyatt, Andaz London Liverpool Street, Hyatt Place London City East, Hyatt Place London Heathrow Airport, Hyatt Regency London Stratford, and Hyatt House London Stratford, as well as the soon-to-be-opened Hyatt Regency London Blackfriars and Park  

6

Why you should consider a 2 day stay in National Harbor as part of your holiday to Washington

09th Jan 2023 0

National Harbor is a must-visit destination when you're in the Washington, D.C. area. Located just minutes from the nation's capital, National Harbor offers a unique blend of waterfront dining, shopping, and entertainment options that are perfect for a quick getaway or a longer stay. Whether you're traveling with friends, family, or solo, there's something for everyone to enjoy at National Harbor. One of the main reasons to spend at least three days in National Harbor is to fully experience all that it has to offer. From boat tours and water sports to world-class dining and shopping, there are endless ways to have fun and relax in this vibrant waterfront community. Boating on the Potomac If you're looking for a unique and enjoyable way to experience National Harbor, consider taking a boat tour. There are several companies that offer boat tours of the area, ranging from sightseeing tours to sunset cruises to water taxi services. One popular option is the National Harbor Water Taxi. This service offers transportation between National Harbor and Old Town Alexandria, as well as stops at various points along the way, including the National Mall in D.C. and the MGM National Harbor Casino. The water taxis are comfortable and climate-controlled, and offer great views of the Potomac River and the surrounding area. Another option is the Spirit of Washington Dinner Cruise. This two-hour cruise offers a buffet dinner, live entertainment, and breathtaking views of the D.C. skyline and landmarks. You'll get to see the monuments, the Kennedy Center, and the U.S. Capitol Building, all while enjoying a delicious meal and some dancing. If you're looking for a more laid-back experience, you might want to try the Potomac Riverboat Company's sightseeing tour. This tour takes you on a leisurely ride down the Potomac River, passing by some of the area's most famous landmarks, including Mount Vernon and George Washington's estate. You'll also get to see the Woodrow Wilson Bridge, the USS Barry, and the National Harbor itself. For the more adventurous, options like jet-skiing and kayaking are worth considering! The top attractions One of the most popular attractions in National Harbor is the National Children's Museum. This interactive museum is designed for children ages 0-12 and features hands-on exhibits that focus on science, technology, engineering, art, and math. Kids can learn about the human body, create their own art, and even design and build their own structures in the museum's Maker Space. The Capital Wheel is a 180-foot tall observation wheel that offers panoramic views of the Potomac River and the surrounding area. You can ride in a glass-enclosed gondola, which offers a comfortable and climate-controlled experience. The Capital Wheel is a great place to go for a romantic date or to take some stunning photos. [caption id="attachment_56493" align="alignnone" width="1005"] MGM National Harbor Casino[/caption] MGM National Harbor Casino is a luxurious casino that offers a variety of games, including slots, table games, and poker. It also features a number of restaurants, bars, and entertainment options. Whether you're a seasoned gambler or just looking for a fun night out, the MGM National Harbor Casino is a great place to go.   Dining If you're a foodie, you'll be in heaven at National Harbor. The waterfront community is home to a wide variety of dining options, from casual cafes and pubs to fine dining restaurants guaranteeing there is something to satisfy every taste and budget. One of the top dining destinations in National Harbor is The Melting Pot, a fondue restaurant that's perfect for a romantic dinner or a special occasion. You'll get to choose from a variety of savory fondue broths, as well as an array of meats, vegetables, and seafood to cook to perfection at your table. The atmosphere is intimate and cozy, with dim lighting and a fireplace setting the mood. If you're in the mood for seafood, you can't go wrong with The Fish Market. Located right on the water, this restaurant offers a wide variety of fresh fish and shellfish, as well as delicious sides and sauces. The outdoor patio is the perfect place to enjoy your meal on a warm day, with views of the Potomac River and the monuments in D.C. For a more casual dining experience, check out Bobby McKey's Dueling Piano Bar. This popular spot is known for its lively atmosphere and delicious drinks, as well as its interactive entertainment. You'll get to sing along to your favorite songs as two pianists go head-to-head, performing requests and taking turns on the keys. [caption id="attachment_56494" align="alignnone" width="681"] Bobby McKey's Dueling Piano Bar[/caption] If you're a pizza lover, you won't want to miss a visit to Pizzeria Paradiso. This Italian restaurant serves up some of the best pizza in the area, with a wide variety of toppings to choose from. The atmosphere is casual and fun, with a lively bar scene and live music on certain nights. Overall, dining in National Harbor is an experience you won't want to miss. With so many delicious options to choose from, you'll have a hard time deciding where to eat. So, whether you're in the mood for a romantic dinner, a casual meal with friends, or a night out on the town, National Harbor has something to suit your taste. Shopping Shopping is another top activity in National Harbor, with a wide variety of stores and boutiques to choose from. The Tanger Outlets offer some of the best deals on designer brands, while the National Harbor Marketplace is a great place to find unique gifts and souvenirs. And don't forget to check out the farmers market, which takes place on Saturdays and offers fresh produce and other local products. Where to Stay In addition to all of these activities, National Harbor is also home to several hotels and resorts, making it the perfect place to stay for a longer trip. The Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center is a luxurious option with a variety of amenities, including a spa, fitness center, and multiple dining options. The Westin National Harbor is another great choice, with stylish guest rooms and a prime location near all of the top attractions. [caption id="attachment_56495" align="alignnone" width="1005"] Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center[/caption] Last thoughts Overall, there are countless reasons to spend at least three days in National Harbor during a visit to the Washington, D.C. area. Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, you'll find it all in this vibrant waterfront community. So, plan your trip to National Harbor today and make the most of your visit to the nation's capital region.    

28-day Arctic Circle Cruise Added to HAL's 2024 Alaska season

04th Jan 2023 0

The 2024 Alaska season of Holland America Line now includes a brand-new 28-day Arctic Circle trip. Alaskan cruises can be taken onboard the Eurodam, Koningsdam, Nieuw Amsterdam, Noordam, Westerdam, and Zaandam from April through September 2024. 2024 Cruisetours, which combine an Alaska cruise with an overland excursion to Denali and the Yukon, will be available in February and are already accepting reservations for the line's 2024 cruises. The new 28-day Westerdam Alaska Arctic Circle Solstice voyage leaves Seattle on 9th June and travels roundtrip to the Bering Sea while making port calls in Juneau, Anchorage, Dutch Harbor, Haines, and Homer. Holland America Line's chief business officer, Beth Bodensteiner, said: "We’re excited to reveal details of our 2024 season including a new month-long Arctic Circle itinerary that is the most immersive we’ve ever offered in this region. "With six ships serving Alaska and the only cruise line with owned land operations in Denali and the Yukon, no one does Alaska better than Holland America Line."  

China to Relax its Strict Covid Quarantine Regulations

29th Dec 2022 0

According to reports, China may soon relax its rigorous Covid quarantine regulations after almost three years. According to the BBC, the nation is prepared to reopen to travelers seeking to meet family or those with employment or study visas. China will reopen to foreign tourists starting on 8th January in what likely be one of the last significant deviations from its zero-Covid position. The Chinese immigration bureau has also indicated that it will start issuing visitors for Chinese citizens who wish to travel abroad on the same date. The BBC notes that since the announcement, traffic to travel booking services in China has increased, however other countries, including Japan and India, will implement inbound Covid restrictions on travelers arriving from China. These vary include proof of a recent Covid-19 test that came back negative, proof of vaccination against the virus, or proof of an initial quarantine period.  

Holland America Line Adds Longer Trips and New Port Departures to its 2024 European Itinerary

21st Dec 2022 0

Holland America Line has added longer trips and new departure ports to its 2024 European itinerary. The line said that the intervention represented the "largest refresh" of its regional schedule in "a long time," one that would add a number of new itineraries that would combine regions. Additionally, dozens of "special itineraries" that are 14 days or longer will be available. Many of these additional excursions, which range in length from seven to 35 days, will be sailed between April and November by the Pinnacle-class ships Nieuw Statendam and Rotterdam. In order to maximize shore time, HAL will station four ships in Europe in the summer of 2024, together with Oosterdam and Zuiderdam. These ships will use nine overnight stops and provide 33 late-night city departures. The Baltics, the British Isles, the Canaries, the French and Spanish Rivieras, Israel, the Mediterranean, and Northern Europe, including Iceland, Greenland, and Norway, will all be covered by the program. Beth Bodensteiner, the chief commercial officer of HAL, said: "Holland America Line’s 2024 European season is the biggest refresh we’ve done in the region in a long time, and we’re excited to feature new itineraries, more voyages that are 14 and 21 days, different departure cities and unique country combinations." "We’re also returning to the Canary Islands and Bermuda, and, of course, we’re back in the Med visiting everywhere from Spain to Turkey. Holland America Line’s 2024 season is the most diverse we’ve ever offered."  

Viva Cruises' Brand-New Ship to be Christened in Düsseldorf and Set to Sail in April 2023

17th Dec 2022 0

On 23rd March 2023, Viva Cruises' second brand-new ship will be christened at its home port of Düsseldorf. Then, on 1st April, Viva Two will set off on its first trip from Frankfurt to Passau. The Viva One's sister ship can accommodate 190 passengers in 95 cabins, making it the line's flagship ship. The catalytic converter and particle filter-equipped exhaust system on board Viva Two, according to Viva Cruises, is "the most significant technical improvement" on board and will allow the ship to satisfy EU regulations. Andrea Kruse, the chief operations officer, said: “We are delighted to be able to welcome nationally and internationally invited guests and business partners to our second major christening to celebrate our second new-build ship Viva Two together with them and then to send her off on her first voyage.” Viva Cruises' managing director and CEO of parent firm Scylla AG, Arno Reitsma, stated: “Of course, we will also be using this day to present the new ship to our guests for the first time and to introduce them to our innovative concept in architecture and design as well as innovations in the technical area.” He added: “Our new-build ship, Viva Two, will make river cruising even more attractive.” The ship's exhaust system, which Retisma commended as a "major stride towards more sustainability," was praised. “With our second ship, we are once again focusing on sustainable construction and on moving forward with a heavy focus on the environment and the current times,” he said. Photo credit to https://www.cruisemapper.com/

Wizz Air Introduces New Direct Flight from the UK to Jordan

14th Dec 2022 0

A brand-new direct flight from the UK to Jordan has been introduced by Wizz Air. The airline will provide the brand-new, three times weekly service from Luton to Amman, the capital of Jordan. Tickets are currently on sale, with prices beginning at £36 per person. The new route joins four others that the airline recently began offering from Luton to Prague, Sharm El Sheikh, Tallinn, and Hurghada. Wizz Air UK's managing director, Marion Geoffroy, stated: "We are very excited to announce the launch of our new route to Amman, a capital city bursting with life and the gateway to the historic country of Jordan. "We are constantly striving to both diversify and expand our network and are pleased to be able to offer our passengers even more exciting and affordable travel opportunities beyond Europe, following the launch of our flights from London Luton Airport to Sharm-El Sheik."

Ryanair Releases Bristol Schedule for Summer 2023

08th Dec 2022 0

For summer 2023, Ryanair has released its busiest Bristol schedule yet, with 33 routes that include new arrivals to Bydgoszcz, Porto, Marseille, and Venice. The airline will base a fifth aircraft at the airport as part of the expansion, which is a component of a $500 million investment in the southwest region, and enhance frequencies on nine current routes, including Dublin, Limoges, Milan, and Palma. At Bristol Airport, the investment will also support 1,500 indirect employment and 150 aviation jobs. Eddie Wilson, the CEO of Ryanair, said the company was "delighted" to announce the expansion. Chief Executive Officer of Bristol Airport Dave Lees stated: “We are delighted with Ryanair’s announcement increasing the 2023 flight programme to its largest ever schedule from Bristol airport. This is a clear demonstration of confidence returning in the region for air travel. “Expanding Ryanair’s route network and adding extra capacity to existing routes, gives customers in the southwest easy and affordable access to air travel on an increasing number of destinations and flexibility of stay lengths, without the need to travel to other airports for their flights.” In the summer of 2023, Ryanair will also increase the number of destinations it serves from Liverpool John Lennon airport by introducing new flights to Ibiza, Madrid, and Shannon. Ibiza flights will start on March 28 and run once a week, and Madrid flights will start the following day with three weekly departures. In addition to Cork, Dublin, and Knock, Shannon will be served from Liverpool twice weekly beginning on March 26. By the end of the summer, up to 46 Irish departures per week could be available.

India Resumed E-visa Service for Entrance

06th Dec 2022 0

India has resumed issuing e-visas for entrance after suspending them last year and requiring that all applications from UK citizens be submitted in person. The reversal was officially announced by the High Commission of India, who also announced that UK citizens traveling to India would once more be able to use the e-visa service. It added that a system upgrade was in progress and that the website for visas would soon be open for applications from the UK. When the application entrance process was reintroduced in 2021 following the Covid epidemic, the UK was one of few nations that was not added back to the e-visa list. Vikram K. Doraiswami, the Indian High Commissioner, said the following in a video posted on Twitter: “We are rolling out e-visas once again and this service will be available to you forthwith. We are looking forward to a good winter season.” On the webpage for Indian visas, it stated that e-visas had been reinstated and now covered all 164 nations that qualified. It stated that all legitimate eVisas could now be utilized to enter the nation. Abercrombie & Kent's Kerry Golds, chief tour operating officer, stated: “India has been a firm favourite for both Cox & Kings and A&K guests for years. “The return of the e-visa for British citizens is a significant step forward in removing a barrier for travellers planning a visit to this incredible, captivating country.” Millions of UK reservations were reportedly put at jeopardy when the high commission instituted temporary measures in November, including a doorstep service to expedite the visa application process. The door-to-door service is still in use. To speed up the procedure, new visa processing facilities have also recently opened in Glasgow and Marylebone, London.

Cunard Releases Summer 2024 Sailing Program

30th Nov 2022 0

The delayed debut of the new ship Queen Anne is one of the elements of Cunard's summer 2024 sailings. The package goes on sale to the public on 7th December and covers departures between April 2024 and January 2025. More than 190 brand-new voyages depart from 90 different ports around the world, including the Queen Anne's redesigned debut trip on a  3rd May sailing for seven nights from Southampton to La Coruna and Lisbon. Due to supply chain concerns, the new 3,000-passenger ship's launch has been postponed from January 2024. Following its inaugural voyage, Queen Anne will set off on a 14-night voyage to the Canary Islands before making her way around the British Isles, stopping in Scotland, Ireland, and Liverpool, the port where Cunard was founded. In addition to visiting more than 60 locations in 16 nations during her inaugural season, Queen Anne will travel from Southampton to the Mediterranean, Scandinavia, the Canary Islands, and the Norwegian fjords. Cunard's 182-year legacy of transatlantic travel will be upheld by Queen Mary 2, which will make 20 trips between Southampton and New York. The ship will also travel to the Caribbean for the 2024 holiday season and to Scandinavia for the Northern Lights. With over 75 fly-cruise itineraries to Spain, Italy, Greece, Turkey, Montenegro, and Croatia on a series of 7, 14, and 2-night sailings leaving from Barcelona, Civitavecchia (Rome), Trieste, Hamburg, and Istanbul, Queen Victoria will spend the summer of 2024 in the Mediterranean. The timetable for Queen Elizabeth's trip back to Alaska will be made public in the following months. With nighttime departures and overnight stays in cities like Reykjavik, Tromso, Rotterdam, and Quebec, ships spend more time in ports overall. President of Cunard parent company Carnival UK, Sture Myrmell, stated: “Summer 2024 is a particularly exciting time for Cunard as our new ship Queen Anne joins the fleet.  “We’re delighted that our quartet of queens will be visiting a variety of awe-inspiring destinations around the world.  “With more overnight stays and longer days in port on offer, we’re giving guests the opportunity to really immerse themselves in the local culture at their leisure.  “On top of that, guests can look forward to enjoying our unique onboard experience, which offers outstanding service and the freedom to relax in pure luxury.”

Balmoral of Fred Olsen Cruise Lines to Depart from Portsmouth

26th Nov 2022 0

Beginning the following month, the Balmoral of Fred Olsen Cruise Lines will depart from Portsmouth. Balmoral will set sail on 10th December for a 12-night holiday journey to Spain and Portugal, where passengers can check out Vigo's light show and Madeira's Christmas markets. On 22nd December, the line will also leave for a 14-night holiday excursion to the Canaries, stopping in Portugal, Spain, Gran Canaria, and Tenerife. Balmoral will set sail on a 78-night South America and Antarctic voyage at the start of the following year. Cruise destinations include the Galapagos Islands, the Bahamas, the Patagonian Fjords in Chile, and the Antarctic for the first time in the line's history. On 5th January 2023, the cruise sets sail and makes its way back to Southampton. Prices begin at £7,999. Director of product and customer service Clare Ward stated: “At Fred Olsen, we have almost 200 years of seafaring history, and so to welcome guests aboard from Portsmouth, a city with rich maritime heritage, is particularly exciting for us. “These sailings have been handcrafted by our team of dedicated journey planers to offer our guests something special at the time of year they are visiting. “Plus, the smaller size of Balmoral means everyone can be sure of a warm and friendly atmosphere aboard all of her sailings, whether it’s for a warmer festive break or that once-in-a-lifetime voyage to South America or Antarctica.”

Emirates Confirms Second Daily Dubai - Colombo Flight

23rd Nov 2022 0

To meet the seasonal spike in demand for travel, Emirates has announced plans to introduce a second daily direct route between Dubai and Colombo, beginning on 1st December 2022. Three daily flights will now connect the two cities thanks to the new service, which will fly as EK648/EK649 and include two direct flights and one that uses Male, the capital of the Maldives. Except from 16th December to 30th December, when the route from Dubai to Colombo would make a stopover in Male, Emirates' second daily flight will run nonstop between Dubai and Colombo. The EK648 flight, which will leave Dubai daily at 16:10 and land in Colombo at 21:55 from 1st December through 15th December and from 31st December through 26th March. From 16th December through 30th December, flight EK648 will go via Male; at that time, it will leave Dubai at 10.30 a.m. and land in Male at 14.45 p.m. Then, it will leave Male at 17.15 and arrive in Colombo at 19.15. Flight EK649 is planned to leave Colombo at 02:55 and arrive in Dubai at 05:55 between the dates of 1st December and 26th March. The times shown are local. Emirates offers luxury suites in First Class, lie-flat seats in Business Class, and roomy seats in Economy Class on flights to Colombo using its contemporary Boeing 777-300ER aircraft. In addition to regionally inspired meals and complimentary beverages, travelers to and from Sri Lanka can take advantage of Emirates' award-winning service and industry-leading products in the air and on the ground across all classes. The airline's ice inflight entertainment system also provides up to 5,000 channels of on-demand entertainment in over 40 languages, including movies, TV shows, an extensive musical library, games, audio books, and podcasts.  

British Airways Started Trial of Biometric Technology for International Flights

17th Nov 2022 0

British Airways is the first airline in the UK to test the use of biometric technology for international flights, allowing trial participants to move through airports "smartly" without having to produce their passports. Those who have Global Entry will be familiar with the long history of biometric use in the US. For domestic flights in the UK, BA has been employing biometric boarding gates since 2017. Customers who sign up to participate in the airline's trial out of Terminal 5 at London Heathrow will be asked to scan their face, passport, and boarding pass on their smartphone or tablet prior to travel, with the information being kept secure. Trial participants can retain their passports safely in their pockets until they arrive at their destination since Smart Bio-Pod cameras at the airport quickly authenticate their identity. British Airways' Operations Transformation Manager, David Breeze, stated:  “Not only is this the first time that our customers have been able to register their biometric information at home, but it’s the first time they can use it for British Airways’ international flights. This is a secure and efficient tool that makes for a smarter and smoother airport experience, which will reduce the time it takes us to board aircraft” “The beauty of this technology is that it also frees our people up to look after more complex customer enquiries and deliver the best possible customer service.” On flights operated by British Airways to Malaga, Spain, the trial will last six months. Customers that choose to participate will be given priority boarding and invited to use the Fast-Track security line. It is anticipated that the trial will be expanded to more international flights if it is successful. A volunteer invitation email will be sent to a select group of passengers departing from London Heathrow Terminal 5 three days prior to their flight. You must still have your passport on hand, but anything that makes the process go more quickly is a plus in my book. If you are only traveling with hand luggage to a few specific locations, this will undoubtedly speed up the passport check.

Emerald Cruises Reveals Caribbean and Central America Itineraries

14th Nov 2022 0

Itineraries to the Caribbean and Central America have been made public for the first time by Emerald Cruises. The line will provide routes to Colombia, Costa Rica, the Virgin Islands, the West Indies, and the Caribbean Sea. A 10-day Grenadines and Grenada Adventure cruise costs £4,805 per person based on a 24th November 2023 departure and includes the coral reefs of Tobago Cay National Park and Mayreau Island. Based on a 5th February 2024 departure, a 21-day Discover Southern Caribbean and Central America trip starts at £9,835 per person.

Aer Lingus Reinstates Direct Service Between Manchester and Barbados

07th Nov 2022 0

The direct service between Manchester and Barbados has been reinstated by Aer Lingus. The airline reinstated the route after discontinuing it last year in order to "take advantage of passenger demand for winter sun." Up to 30th April, the service will be offered three times per week, on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. An Airbus A330-300 will be used for the flights. In addition to its other direct routes from Manchester to New York and Orlando, the airline expressed excitement over the return of the service. Prices start at £245 roundtrip. Susanne Carberry, chief commercial officer, said: “We’re excited to be restarting flights to the Caribbean again this November direct from Manchester, taking advantage of customer demand for winter sun. “Moving into our second year of operations from Manchester, we are very much focused on offering the best value for our UK customers on flights to the Caribbean and US from the north of England, including our services to New York and Orlando.”

Solmar Villas Adds Amalfi Coast to its 2023 Travel Destinations

01st Nov 2022 0

The Amalfi coast has been added as a new travel destination for 2023 by Solmar Villas. The operator has launched a portfolio of 20 homes in the Italian region, and reservations are now being accepted for 2019. With 10,000 bookings per year, the company's program now offers more than 800 residences in 22 locations. Thirty employees work for the Burton-on-Trent company in the UK, while another 35 are in-resort villa managers. Julie Blake, the managing director and one of the company's founders' daughters, has been in charge of it for the past 28 years. Blake said: “There’s no doubt that travellers are looking to holiday in destinations which offer something extra – and the amazing Amalfi coast can deliver that.  “Our guests increasingly want to really experience the destinations in which our hand-picked properties are located, whether that’s indulging in the local cuisine or feeding a craving for culture. “This stretch of coastline, with its pretty towns and villages and memorable views, has a connection to the glory days of the 1950s when life was much simpler and there’s a growing trend of travellers wanting to visit precisely because of this. “And of course, it’s more recently become the destination of choice for celebrities including Angelina Jolie and her brood and the Kardashians, which probably has increased its visibility as a family holiday destination too.”

British Airways Adds Flight to Cayman Islands for Summer 2023

29th Oct 2022 0

British Airways is adding a fifth weekly flight from Heathrow for the 2023 summer season. The additional service has been scheduled from 26th March via Nassau in The Bahamas until the end of October, with return fares starting at £727. The schedule will see flights operate to George Town, Grand Cayman, on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays. The launch of the additional frequency on the Caribbean route follows the Cayman Islands’ full removal of Covid-related travel requirements in August. Cayman Islands Department of Tourism director Rosa Harris said:  "The additional direct flight demonstrates the increasing desire from European travellers to visit our islands and will hopefully allow us to exceed our pre-pandemic visitor numbers.” Multiple direct flights running throughout the week gives visitors increased flexibility, she added.

Tourism Australia to Launch a New Global Ad Campaign with Animated Kangaroo

20th Oct 2022 0

In an effort to entice tourists back to the nation in the wake of the pandemic, Tourism Australia has launched a new global advertising campaign using an animated CGI souvenir kangaroo. Tourism Australia'sirst foreign campaign since 2016 is set to launch today (Thursday) in major global tourism markets with the slogan "Come and Say G'day". New television advertisements, print and billboard advertisements, as well as initiatives for social, digital, and content marketing, are all part of the multi-channel activity. Partnership activities with airlines, state tourism organizations, and major global distribution partners will promote the campaign. Prior to the debut of the global campaign, Ruby the CGI animated kangaroo has been spotted on billboards all around the world, according to Tourism Australia managing director Phillipa Harrison. Added her: “‘Come and Say G’day’ is unashamedly and unmistakably Australian through the use of a globally recognisable icon in Ruby the kangaroo who goes on an adventure across the country to show all that Australia has to offer. “After a challenging time around the world, our uplifting and joyful campaign will stand out in what is a highly competitive international tourism market.” A toy unicorn named Louie joins Ruby, portrayed by Australian actress Rose Byrne, on her quest. “Another hero of the campaign is the remake of the Australian classic song ‘Down Under’ by up-and-coming Australian band King Stingray, who sing in both English and Yolŋu Matha, an indigenous language from Northeast Arnhem Land in the Northern Territory,” Harrison said. An upcoming worldwide launch event in New York will feature the world premiere of the short film G'day, according to Tourism Australia Chief Marketing Officer Susan Coghill. “The short film, directed by Michael Gracey, aims to create an emotional connection to Ruby the kangaroo, by establishing her backstory and setting her up to be a long-term Brand Ambassador for Tourism Australia,” she said. Local events will also be held in Tokyo, Singapore, Mumbai, Frankfurt, Berlin, Paris, and London in addition to the global launch event in New York. Photo credit to: https://www.perthnow.com.au/

Saudia Adds Weekly Service from Manchester to its UK Winter Schedule

12th Oct 2022 0

Saudi Arabian Airlines (Saudia) has added a new weekly service from Manchester to its UK winter flying schedule. The Saudi flag carrier has boosted the number of weekly flights from the UK city from four to five as of this month, bringing the service back to its pre-pandemic level. Additionally, Saudia offers daily flights from Heathrow to Jeddah and the capital of Saudi Arabia, Riyadh. Regional manager for Saudia in Europe, Hisham Bindkhail, said: "The UK is an important market. “Our winter schedule includes connections to and from both major airports, Manchester and Heathrow, and gives guests a great flexibility when traveling to Saudi Arabia. “We look forward to welcoming guests from the UK on our aircrafts.” Leisure traffic, according to Bindkhail, was "fast going forward". Boeing B777-300 and B787-900 aircraft fly Saudia's routes to and from the UK. More than 100 destinations on four continents are connected by the carrier.

Hong Kong to Give Away 500,000 Airline Tickets

08th Oct 2022 0

In an effort to boost its Covid-damaged tourism industry, Hong Kong will give away 500,000 airline tickets worth about £225 million. The information was revealed at the same time as Virgin Atlantic announced the termination of its nearly 30-year-old service between London and the Asian hub. On 26th September, Hong Kong lifted its hotel quarantine rules and shortened its health surveillance period from four to three days. According to local reports, there is now a likelihood that chief executive John Lee will provide a roadmap for normalization in his policy speech in October. According to executive director of the Hong Kong Tourism Board Dane Cheng, the city's airport authority would provide inbound and outbound travelers with the free tickets that were purchased to support Hong Kong airlines during the epidemic.  “The airport authority will finalise the arrangement with airline companies,” he added.  “Once the government announces it will remove all Covid-19 restrictions for inbound travellers, we’ll roll out the advertising campaigns for the free air tickets.” The recovery of flight schedules has been difficult for Hong Kong-based airlines, with Cathay Pacific anticipating operating at just a third of its pre-pandemic passenger capacity by the end of the year. The carrier said last month that it was "totally committed to strengthening the connectivity of the Hong Kong aviation hub" and welcomed the elimination of the requirement for arriving passengers to stay in hotels under quarantine.

Carnival Cruise Line is Back in Australia

05th Oct 2022 0

For the first time since the epidemic, Carnival Cruise Line has returned to Australia with a resumption of sailings from Sydney. The weekend saw the departure of the four-day itinerary for the Carnival Splendor, which will continue its year-round schedule of cruises. After almost three years, the line's president Christine Duffy celebrated its return to operation in Australia. Duffy said: “We have been planning this return for some time, and we are elated now to see guests back on board, ready to have fun and take in the beauty that Australia has to offer.  “And as we welcome the arrival of our newest ship, Carnival Luminosa to Brisbane next month, we’re looking forward to even more fun in Australia.”

Marella Cruises to Scrap All Pre-Departure Covid Testing by October

28th Sep 2022 0

Beginning on 1st October, Marella Cruises will discontinue all pre-departure testing. The cruise line, which is a part of the Tui Group, declared it would abide by local customs wherever its ships sailed. Currently, all cruise guests in Greece are required to undergo a medical examination at the port terminal before boarding a ship. Therefore, the day before boarding the ship, travelers two years of age and older departing from Corfu must pass an antigen test. When arriving at the ship to check in, passengers are required to present their test result certificate. Cruise managing director for Tui, Chris Hackney, stated: “As always, our customers are our number one priority. “The relaxation of these rules means our guests can enjoy a simpler process pre-travel, without having to spend any additional costs.” He added: “We look forward to continuing to welcome both new and existing customers onboard our ships for our winter 2022 and summer 2023 itineraries.” Marella Discovery, Marella Discovery 2, Marella Explorer, and Marella Explorer 2 are currently being operated by the all-inclusive line. On 3rd June 2023, Marella Voyager is scheduled to join the fleet.

Wizz Air Adds Two New Connections from Luton Airport to Poland

24th Sep 2022 0

Before Christmas, two new connections from Luton Airport to Poland will be available. From 13th December, flights will operate twice weekly, on Tuesdays and Saturdays, to Bydgoszcz and Lodz. One-way prices start at £21.99. While the third-largest city in Poland, Lodz, is renowned for its vibrant street art and Jewish past, Bydgoszcz is home to canals, eclectic architecture, and a strong jazz culture. Marion Geoffroy, managing director of Wizz Air UK, stated: “Wizz Air is constantly striving to expand its route network and offer new destinations in Europe and beyond.  “We are pleased to announce the launch of two routes from London Luton airport to two brand new Wizz Air stations in Poland.  “Our continued growth at Luton reaffirms our commitment to offering passengers ultra-low fares to a variety of exciting destinations.”

Brown's Hotel and DockATot Teamed Up to Provide Baby and Children Experience

20th Sep 2022 0

In London, Brown's Hotel and DockATot have partnered to provide a variety of baby beds, nursing pillows, and a "Tent of Dreams" for kids to play in. This is the first time DockATot, formerly Sleepyhead of Sweden, has collaborated with a hotel. The company is well-known in the UK for its selection of baby sleeping pods. In addition to the brand's Moses basket, La Maman Wedge nursing pillow, and Deluxe+ and Grand Docks sleeping pods, families staying at Brown's can unwind with a variety of DockATot delicacies. Children can play, read, and unwind in the DockATot Tent of Dreams for guests staying in one of Brown's premium suites. A variety of Morris & Co. prints, including the well-known Strawberry Thief, Golden Willow Boughs, Pink and Rose, and DockATot's own Busy Bees print, are available in the DockATot line that is on display at Brown's. DockATot's founder, Lisa Furuland Kotsianis, said: “Featuring items from DockATot’s Morris & Co. collection within the historic and striking walls of Brown’s made complete sense. A timeless establishment, known equally for elegant, meaningful decor as well as distinguished comfort. DockATot is at home at Brown’s and as our first hotel partner, I couldn’t think of any other hotel more fitting than Brown’s.” Brown's managing director Stuart Johnson continued:  “We are delighted to partner with DockATot as their first hotel partner. Families are at the core of what we do and we always strive to enhance and create special memories for families that choose to stay with us – working with DockATot will only enhance this experience for them.” As a Rocco Forte hotel, Brown's provides a variety of Rocco Forte Kids' services and amenities, such as a children's afternoon tea based on the Jungle Book and a Little Ones' treatment menu at The Spa at Brown's.

Disney Reveals Second Island Destination in the Bahamas

14th Sep 2022 0

Disney Cruise Line has announced plans to add a second island destination in the Bahamas and is expected to rename its upcoming ship Disney Treasure. Disney Treasure, the second of three ships in the Wish-class, is scheduled for completion in 2024. By 2026, all three ships are expected to be launched. Each Wish-class ship has 1,254 cabins and is propelled by liquefied natural gas. The first ship of the Wish-class, Disney Wish, was launched in July of this year. "A brand-new motif unlike anything Disney Cruise Line has done before" will be used in the design of Disney Treasure. Josh D'Amaro, chairman of Disney Parks, Experiences, and Products, said:  “At the heart of every adventure, there’s a treasure, and we can’t wait for you to create memories aboard this spectacular ship.” Additionally, he disclosed that construction has begun on Disney's second island resort in the Bahamas, which is situated on the island of Eleuthera. The new construction will be at the island's Lighthouse Point. At the location, visitors may also take advantage of a recreation area, dining options, shopping, a water playground, and a cultural pavilion. To develop "a destination that represents the natural beauty and rich culture of the Bahamas, brought to life through Disney stories," Disney is collaborating closely with Bahamian artists and advisors. The line has promised to use "sustainable building practices" and provide 90% of the site's power from solar energy. Additionally, it will provide the government of the Bahamas more than 190 acres of privately owned land.

G Adventures Returns to Sailing with Its 2022-23 Antarctic Itinerary

08th Sep 2022 0

With its 2022–23 Antarctic itinerary, G Adventures will welcome back its G Expedition ship for the first time since the pandemic started. The ship, which specializes in polar cruise, is a "floating school," according to Brian Young, managing director of G Adventures in EMEA, and provides visitors with a "high degree of instruction" on subjects including wildlife and ecosystems. When booking a vacation by 29th September for travel between 22nd October 2022, and 13th March 2023, travelers can save up to 20%. The adventure travel company offers an 11-day Antarctic Classic itinerary that takes travelers to both the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands. For departure on 12th March 2023, the lead-in price is £6,299, however it can be purchased for £5,039 with the 20% discount and is based on two sharing. The Antarctica Classic In-Depth trip, which G Adventures also offers, adds two more days to the Antarctica Classic itinerary, giving travelers more time to "further appreciate its majesty." Based on two people sharing, the lead-in price for departure on 11th November 2022, is £5,199. Young said: “Travellers booking trips aboard our G Expedition are not only seeking a once in a lifetime adventure, but are also curious about the wildlife and ecosystems they encounter in the Antarctic region. “The ship’s long-standing citizen science projects and education programme help them to make the most of their Antarctic expedition. “We want to inspire travellers to become custodians of the oceans and our onboard programme helps travellers to understand more about the conservation of the birds, marine mammals, marine wildlife and ecosystems they will encounter. “With more of our travellers seeking those bigger ticket adventures in 2022, this is a great time to snap up a deal and head to one of the most incredible places on the planet. And for those who can’t travel this year, our 2023-24 dates are now also live to book.”

Saint Lucia Removes All Covid-Related Prerequisites for Travellers

05th Sep 2022 0

All Covid-related prerequisites for travellers to Saint Lucia have been removed. The Saint Lucia Tourism Authority has stated that there are no longer any testing or vaccine requirements for entry, allowing unvaccinated visitors to travel there. Before arriving in Saint Lucia, all visitors must download, print, and complete a health screening form. You can access the form online at stlucia.org/covid-19. The authority stated that while face masks are optional while on the island, they are nonetheless "strongly advised." Face masks must also be worn when entering health facilities, using public transportation, and anywhere else there are "huge crowds of individuals in close proximity."

Ryanair Unveils Its Biggest-Ever Winter Program

31st Aug 2022 0

With more than 20 additional regional routes to the UK, Ryanair has unveiled what it calls its "biggest-ever" winter timetable, expanding its network to 440 in total. Liverpool-Rome, Birmingham-Venice, Newcastle-Barcelona, Bournemouth-Lanzarote, and Manchester-Podgorica are some of the new winter sun, ski, and city vacation possibilities. New flights have also been added to Lapland, Sicily, Scandinavia, and the Asturias. Michael O'Leary, the CEO of Ryanair, launched the program on Tuesday, 30th August, and again criticized Heathrow for maintaining a capacity cap. He also reaffirmed Ryanair's position on OTA sales, which O'Leary criticized as engaging in "anti-consumer price-gouging" and warned were breaking the terms and conditions of the low-cost airline by offering Ryanair flights. He declared that Ryanair would once more request intervention from the Competition and Markets Authority.

British Airways to Resume Non-Stop Service to Buenos Aires

26th Aug 2022 0

Next year, British Airways will reintroduce its nonstop service between Heathrow and Buenos Aires. From 26th March 2023, BA will resume non-stop service on the route, which will take about 14 hours. BA currently serves the route with a stop in Sao Paulo. Every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday there will be a flight. A seasonal Gatwick-Vancouver route and a summer-only Gatwick-Las Vegas service are two additional alterations for next summer. Additionally, BA's Orlando service will leave its temporary base at Heathrow and return to Gatwick. In the coming weeks, more adjustments are anticipated to be finalized.

Tui Increases Flights , Cruise and Hotel Capacity to Barbados

23rd Aug 2022 0

This winter, Tui will increase the number of flights it offers to Barbados, as well as berth two of its largest cruise ships there and add more partner hotels. The major airline will boost its winter flights to Barbados from seven to eight per week, departing from Gatwick, Manchester, and Birmingham, in response to rising demand. Additionally, two "rover" flights each week from various UK airports will be added. In total, 54,000 people will use the aircraft to come to Barbados this winter. This winter, the Marella Explorer 2 and Marella Discovery will both make their initial homeports at Bridgetown, the capital of Barbados. Together, they will conduct a total of 40 sailing cycles up until April 2023, extending the wintertime cruising season by one month. Beginning on 20th November, Marella Explorer 2, which can accommodate 1,850 passengers, will sail once a week. Beginning on 22nd December, Marella Discovery, which can accommodate 1,800 passengers, will sail once a week. The development "underpins Tui's faith in Barbados," according to Lisa Cummins, minister of tourism for Barbados. Since 2011, TUI has been marketing vacation packages to the island and has increased its capacity practically every year. Barbados Tourism Marketing Director Cheryl Carter reported that during this time, cruise passengers on the island had increased by 189%.

UAE No Longer Require Covid-19 PCR Test for Minors Under 16

19th Aug 2022 0

Following the most recent guideline modification by the United Arab Emirates, children under the age of 16 will no longer be required to undergo a Covid-19 PCR test prior to traveling to Dubai or Abu Dhabi. With the impending winter sun season, the lowering of the testing standards will help the family market in the UAE. According to current regulations, visitors to the UAE are exempt from doing a pre-departure PCR test if they have "serious disability," are completely immunized, have a Covid recovery certificate dated within 30 days of departure, or are fully immunized. When checking in for a flight to the UAE, passengers who are not fully immunized or who lack a recovery certificate must instead provide the results of a negative PCR test that was performed within 48 hours before departure. If a negative PCR test is necessary at their final destination, transit passengers flying through the UAE are also required to give one. Travelers may still be forced to submit to a PCR test upon arrival in the UAE, and they will need to isolate pending the results of this test. Those who test positive could need to spend at least 10 days in self-isolation at a government building, hospital, hotel, or other types of prearranged lodging.

Ryanair to Providing Substitute Flights from Cardiff

13th Aug 2022 0

After Wizz Air canceled nine winter sun routes from Cardiff airport, Ryanair stepped up with "rescue pricing." Ryanair only runs one route from the Welsh airport and the rest from Bristol. The Irish no-frills airline is providing tickets starting at £39.99 to customers who had reservations for Wizz Air's canceled flights to Cardiff beginning on 19th September. Wizz Air will only operate in Milan and Bucharest from Cardiff throughout the winter starting on 30th October after discontinuing service to Alicante, Corfu, Heraklion, Faro, Larnaca, Lanzarote, Palma, Sharm el-Sheikh, and Tenerife. Ryanair is providing substitute flights from Cardiff and Bristol to Faro, as well as alternate flights from Bristol to Alicante, Malaga, Palma, and Tenerife, for travel through the end of October. However, the special tickets must be reserved by Monday at midnight (15th August). Dara Brady, head of marketing and digital for Ryanair, said: “While Wizz Air is cutting flights to top European destinations such as Faro and Tenerife, Ryanair continues to operate a full schedule with over 3,000 daily flights and we are ready to accommodate the holiday needs of families flying from Cardiff who have been affected by these Wizz Air disruptions.”

Jet2 to Start Its 2023 Summer Program With Turkey

10th Aug 2022 0

Turkey will begin serving passengers in the summer of 2023 earlier thanks to Jet2 and Jet2holidays. In the upcoming year, flights to Dalaman and Izmir will begin on 17th March and 15th April, respectively. The action comes after the operator moved the schedule for next summer's flights to Bodrum forward to the beginning of April. This is in addition to the company's ten UK departure airports offering year-round service to Antalya. As a jumping-off point to resorts including Olu Deniz, Marmaris, Iclemer, and Dalyan, Dalaman will be served by early season flights from Birmingham, Bristol, Glasgow, Leeds Bradford, Manchester, and Stansted. In April, flights to Izmir from Birmingham, Manchester, and Stansted will be available for destinations including Kusadasi and Ozdere. Steve Heapy, the company's CEO, said: “Dalaman and Izmir are both enormously popular with customers and independent travel agents, and there is huge demand for both destinations and not just during the peak summer season.  “We have experienced a remarkable period of growth in Turkey on the back of this sustained demand, and we have continued to demonstrate our commitment to Turkey by working alongside the Turkish government, hoteliers and our partners to bring more UK holidaymakers to this wonderful country.  “By extending the summer ’23 season to Dalaman and Izmir, we are continuing to demonstrate that commitment and we know just how popular these additional services will be.” Counsellor of The Turkish Culture and Information Office, Arzu Kahraman Yilmaz, added: “With both Dalaman and Izmir witnessing a surge in travellers for both short and long breaks throughout the year, the extended routes from the regional airports in the UK  to these iconic hotspots will make travel to Türkiye ever more easy.”

P&O Cruises Revises Its Flexible Booking Policy

04th Aug 2022 0

After reviewing the Covid-19 interim regulations, P&O Cruises revised its flexible booking policy. Beginning on Wednesday, 3rd August, visitors who book a new select pricing reservation will be able to transfer their booking once, transfer their booking free of charge, transfer their booking to a holiday of equal or higher value, transfer their booking up to the date the balance for their holiday is due (90 days prior to departure of their existing booking), and transfer their booking to a holiday sailing within 12 months of the original departure date (or six months for a world cruise, southern hemisphere journey, grand tour, or exotic fly-cruise) P&O Cruises' director of sales, Ruth Venn, said: “We recognise that guests value peace of mind knowing that they can transfer their bookings if they need to. We’re therefore pleased to continue to offer a flexible transfer policy, where guests can transfer their booking free of charge to another booking of equal or higher value, as long as this change is made before the balance due date of the existing booking. “We believe the new ‘one change’ policy will help to reduce call volumes for agents and provide a simpler, more effective way of managing guest enquiries.” Customers with reservations made before 3rd August who desire to reschedule may do so one more time before the remainder of their trip is due. On specific pricing holidays and early saver holidays, this option is accessible. The new reservation must be made within a year of the original departure date, be of equal or more value, and sail (or six months if transferring from a world cruise, southern hemisphere journey, grand tour, or fly-cruise).

New Zealand Fully Reopened Its Borders to Foreign Travellers

01st Aug 2022 0

For the first time since the Covid-19 pandemic outbreak in March 2020, New Zealand has reopened its borders to foreign travelers. All tourists, even those from nations that do not grant visa waivers and international students, will henceforth be accepted by the nation. The country's reconnecting plan has reached its final checkpoint with the change in border settings. Jacinda Ardern, the prime minister, referred to it as an "enormous moment" and said that it was a part of a "cautious process." The government of New Zealand declared: “This is great news to the tourism industry and economy as we approach spring and summer with people from the northern hemisphere booking their winter holidays.  “We have heard optimistic messages from tourism operators who are ready to welcome back international visitors from all over the world.” The nation also allowed cruise ships access to its maritime boundaries. Passengers will be required to show proof of immunization, nevertheless. Before the pandemic, cruise calls brought in more than $500 million New Zealand dollars annually, of which $356 million were spent ashore. “Most cruise visits are during the warmer months of October to April, and summer is our bumper tourism season overall,” the government said.  “This means it will be full steam ahead for the industry who can plan with certainty for the rest of the year and beyond.”

Belmond Unveils New Suites for Venice Simplon-Orient-Express

27th Jul 2022 0

Belmond has provided information on eight new suites that will debut in June 2023 for Venice Simplon -Orient Express. The historic cabins and grand suites, the two current cabin types, will coexist with the suites. Two historic carriages that have been refurbished by French artisans and designers will contain the new apartments. They will include a lounge area that can be transformed into a double or twin bed at night and a marble ensuite bathroom. Four distinct interior designs—La Campagne (the countryside), Les Montagnes (the mountains), Les Lacs (the lakes), and La Foret—will be highlighted (the forest). As the train travels from Prague to Paris through the rugged south-west of Germany, the La Foret suites evoke the Black Forest. The bright velvet greens and exquisite flower marquetry that adorn the La Campagne suites were inspired by the grasslands and vineyards of northern Italy and the views of southern France. The Austrian Arlberg massif, which can be seen on the train's traditional route to Venice, inspired the designs of the Les Montagnes suites, which are available for guests to stay in. While visitors will see decorations that mimic Lake Zug in Switzerland and Lake Como in Italy in a Les Lacs suite. a representative stated: “Each suite will immerse guests in diverse European scenery through glorious colours, patterns and textures. Plush fabrics and furnishings will channel famed Art Deco designers, such as Majorelle, Dufrene, Leleu, Rousseau, Prou and Lalique. “The interiors are a celebration of European landscapes and the surrounding abundance of nature; the arable plains with their swathes of vineyards, the ancient forests of central Europe, the sharp rise of mountain ranges and smooth glacial lakes.” Every year, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express travels from Paris to Istanbul via Europe from March to November. The suites' lead-in prices begin at £5,500 and include a private 24-hour cabin steward, toiletries, a free kimono, and slippers.

Cruise Ships May Now Be Venues for Weddings in England and Wales

20th Jul 2022 0

Due to proposed changes to the legislation, marriages could take place on cruise ships in England and Wales. Any "safe and respectable" setting, including family homes and a wide range of outdoor locations, such gardens, parks, and beaches, would be acceptable for weddings. The Law Commission has suggested significant changes after conducting a thorough analysis, which it claimed would result in the "largest revamp" since the 19th century. According to the proposal, couples would have more options regarding the location and style of their weddings under a "fairer system." The Commission suggests a new system that would place more emphasis on regulating the marriage officiant who performs the ceremony than the venue where the wedding can be held. It claimed that as household finances become more difficult and the "Covid backlog" of marriages continues, there is an increased public demand for solutions that are easier, more inexpensive, and more individualised. Many of the revisions would bring the laws of England and Wales into compliance with those in other countries, such as Scotland, Northern Ireland, Ireland, Jersey, and countries further away like New Zealand, Canada, and Australia. Family law commissioner for the Law Commission, Professor Nick Hopkins, stated: “The current law on weddings is not working for many couples. Needless restrictions and outdated regulations mean that thousands each year are denied having a wedding that is meaningful to them. “Our reforms for government are designed to protect the established practices and dignity of weddings, while offering couples more choice on where and how they marry.” The Law Commission is a nonpartisan, independent agency that was established by Parliament in 1965 to evaluate all of England and Wales' laws and suggest reforms as necessary.

Emirates Gears up for its Summer Operations

14th Jul 2022 0

The summer travel season is expected to be busy, but Emirates plans to run as usual, including at its 39 European destinations with its London Stansted service resuming on 1st August. Emirates has been coordinating with its ground handling partners at airports around the world to make sure they are up to date with operational requirements and are ready to support smooth passenger movement. For the months of July and August, there are over 24,000 scheduled passenger flights to and from 129 airports around the globe. In order to support its flight schedule and services, Emirates has also collaborated closely with other Dubai Airport partners. As a result, more resources have been made available to ensure smooth operations at the hub, especially for travelers in transit. Visitors to Dubai or those stopping over for the summer may breeze through departures and arrivals with the help of quick biometric checkpoints and take use of a variety of practical choices for mobile, online, home, and self-check in. In addition, the double-decked Emirates A380 plane is being used in over 30 locations across its network to meet high consumer demand, including well-known European cities like Amsterdam, Dusseldorf, Hamburg, London Gatwick, London Heathrow, Rome, Paris, Madrid, Manchester, Milan, Vienna, and Zurich. Customers can anticipate all of Emirates' distinctive experiences whether they are flying for the holidays or to see family and friends. In almost every city that Emirates serves, this includes free Chauffeur Drive airport transfers for First and Business Class clients. Customers on board can look forward to freshly prepared meals that are influenced by the season and area, as well as an unrivaled range of the newest movies, TV shows, radio programs, live TV, podcasts, and more on the 5,000 channels of on-demand entertainment on Emirates ice. Customers traveling First or Business Class, as well as eligible Skywards members, can take advantage of an early check-in to rehydrate and unwind in one of 21 airports outside of Dubai's borders. These include the recently renovated lounges in Bangkok. By the end of July, the Emirates Lounges in Sydney, Melbourne, and Perth, Australia, is expected to reopen. Emirates has agreements with lounge partners in 100 other airports for the rest of its global network.

Ikos Resorts to Open its Second Location in Corfu

08th Jul 2022 0

Ikos Resorts plans to increase the number of its luxurious all-inclusive resorts by building a second location on the Greek island of Corfu in May 2023. Ikos Odisia is located across from sister property Ikos Dassia in a high location on Dassia Bay. The beachside resort is situated adjacent to the Old Town of Corfu, a Unesco World Heritage Site, and is only a 25-minute drive from the Corfu International Airport. Ikos Odisia is spread out across 60 acres and encircled by forest. For couples and families of all sizes, it offers 395 rooms, suites, bungalows, and villas. The Deluxe Collection Suites are an additional option for visitors and offer a personal concierge for customized pre-arrival planning as well as a number of benefits. In addition to a Mediterranean buffet restaurant, Ikos Odisia will have five a la carte restaurants serving food from Greece, Italy, Peru, and Asia. Signature cocktails and 300 different international and local wines will be available at indoor and outdoor bars. The resort will have 10 heated outdoor and indoor pools, some of which will be kid- and adult-only, as well as a 420-meter stretch of beach with waiter service and free childcare for kids under four for 30 minutes. In addition to providing distinctive treatments and beauty products by Anne Semonin Paris, an Ikos Spa will provide views of the Ionian Sea. A cutting-edge fitness center, tennis, canoeing, mountain biking, and windsurfing will also be available. From four to seventeen years old, a free kids' club will include activities including cooking, athletics, and arts and crafts. The Heroes Creche and babysitting services are available to parents of infants and young children. The brand's Infinite Lifestyle concept, which includes food and drink, spa visits, and round-the-clock room service, will be available at Ikos Odisia. In addition, as part of the all-inclusive package offered by the company, guests can eat at neighborhood eateries and tour the island with free car rental. Ikos Odisia, like other Ikos properties, will assist the neighborhood to enhance Corfu. The resort will work with regional vendors to create 700 new jobs, at least half of which will be filled by locals. The property will also adopt zero waste measures and construct sustainable hotel operations as part of the Ikos Green program. The sixth property in the brand's portfolio will be Ikos Odisia.

Australia Removes Vaccination Proof Upon Entry

05th Jul 2022 0

Beginning Wednesday, 6th July, Australia will no longer demand travelers to provide proof of their vaccination status before to arrival, simplifying the entry procedure for tourists from other countries who won't need to complete the Digital Passenger Declaration (DPD). In a statement made on Sunday, Australia's home affairs minister Clare O'Neil said that the country's Biosecurity Act had been modified in accordance with the opinion of its chief medical officer Paul Kelly. “Removing these requirements will not only reduce delays in our airports but will encourage more visitors and skilled workers to choose Australia as a destination,” she said. “I know anyone who has travelled internationally since the borders have opened will find this as one less thing to worry about.” The DPD was initially launched in September of last year and calls for travelers to upload documentation of their vaccination status or exemption to a digital app before entering the nation. It took the place of the first paper passenger arrival form. The announcement also announced the removal of maritime travel declarations for passengers of cruise ships. The revisions to Australia's entrance procedures also apply to arrivals by sea. However, Mark Butler, Australia's minister of health, warned travelers that they must still abide by international Covid regulations as well as national limitations like mask wear on incoming aircraft.

Air New Zealand Dreamliners to Feature Skynest in 2024

01st Jul 2022 0

The new Air New Zealand Dreamliners, scheduled to debut in 2024, will feature Skynest, the first sleep pods in the sky, and a new Business Premier Luxe seat for passengers seeking greater space and privacy. Eight or four Business Premier Luxe seats, 42 or 22 Business Premier, 52 or 33 Premium Economy, 125 or 213 Economy seats, and specifically on the ultra-longhaul aircraft, six Skynest sleep pods will all be available on the eight Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners beginning in 2024 as well as the retrofitted current 787-9 fleet. Leanne Geraghty, Chief Customer and Sales Officer, claims that every aspect of the cabin's decor was influenced by the distinctiveness of Aotearoa, from the carpet that was inspired by a forest to the chairs that were modeled like the Tui, a bird particular to New Zealand. Geraghty said: “Whether we are welcoming visitors or flying New Zealanders home, we want our customers to experience Aotearoa from the moment they step onboard – and get the best night’s rest. “Research shows us the first night away from home is the hardest to get a good night’s sleep so everything we do onboard is to help create a sense of calm – from the lighting and sleep ritual including sleepy teas and balms, to the healthier food choices and breathable fabrics. Meditative onscreen content, Zentertainment, will also help customers unwind and get ready for rest. The Premium Economy and Economy cabins now both include a Sky Pantry. The design process has been centered on sustainability. By replacing leather with contemporary textiles, the weight of each Business Premier and Premium Economy seat has decreased by almost one kilogram, lowering overall carbon emissions. A luxurious experience with all the characteristics of Business Premier, plus a door that closes completely and a dining area for two.

Celebrity Cruises Officially Resumes Full Operations

27th Jun 2022 0

Celebrity Cruises officially resumes operations with the Celebrity Infinity's voyage to the Caribbean. The 63 ships in the fleet of Celebrity Infinity's parent company, Royal Caribbean Group, will all be returning to service on the sailing to Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, which will be the ship's first trip in 881 days. To honor their crews, every ship in the fleet will sound its horn in celebration. Celebrity Cruises resumed operations in June 2021 when Celebrity Edge sailed from a US port for the first time in 15 months as a result of the epidemic. The Celebrity Infinity is prepared to set sail on an Eastern Caribbean cruise for seven nights that will make stops in the Bahamas, Turks & Caicos, and the Dominican Republic. After that, throughout the summer, the ship will rotate between itineraries in the Eastern and Western Caribbean. The company's president and CEO, Lisa Lutoff-Perlo, said: “This sailing not only caps an incredible journey but sets a course for a whole new world of infinite possibilities for our brand and for cruise travel. “The future is very bright, thanks to the time, effort and love that the team has poured into bringing our entire fleet back. “Seeing the beautiful Celebrity Infinity sail out of Florida will be an emotional moment for everyone at Celebrity Cruises, especially our crew who have waited so long to welcome guests aboard once again.” She added: “Our full return would not be possible without the tireless effort and unwavering commitment of our crew. They are the very heart and soul of the Celebrity Cruises’ experience and I am so happy and proud to finally reunite our entire global family at sea.”

Etihad Airways Relaunched Stopover Offer

23rd Jun 2022 0

Etihad Airways has relaunched its stopover offer, giving passengers three options for stopping in Abu Dhabi. Etihad Stopovers provides a 40% discount on over 20 four and five-star hotels. There is also the option of a complimentary one or two-night stay in a three or four-star hotel. Premium brands participating include St Regis, Sheraton, and Shangri La, while lower-tier hotels include Tryp by Windham, Premier Inn, and Ramada. The third option is Transit Connect, which allows passengers on eligible routes to book a complimentary hotel near Abu Dhabi International Airport if their connection time in Abu Dhabi is between 10 and 24 hours. Etihad's senior vice president of global sales, Martin Drew, stated: “The Etihad stopover has always been extremely popular, especially for guests looking to break up ultra long-haul travel with a couple of days enjoying the wonders of Abu Dhabi.”

New Zealand Removes Covid-19 Pre-Departure Test on Arrivals

17th Jun 2022 0

From 11:59 p.m. on Monday, 20th June, the New Zealand government will no longer require arrivals to take a Covid-19 pre-departure test. New Zealand had planned to repeal the rule by 31st July, but the deadline has been pushed up due to a drop in case numbers. Fully vaccinated visitors from approximately 60 countries on a visa-waiver list, including the United Kingdom, have been able to visit since 2nd May. According to the country's official Covid website: “We’ve taken a careful and staged approach to reopening our borders to ensure we aren’t overwhelmed with an influx of Covid-19 cases. “Our strategy has worked and as a result, it’s safe to lift pre-departure test requirements much sooner than planned.” “With cases continuing to decline despite over 387,000 arrivals since borders reopened, there is evidence this measure can now be lifted. “Around 90% of international arrivals undertake their required testing once they are in the country, with only a 2-3% positivity rate. So we don’t anticipate a significant increase in border cases once the requirement is lifted. “In addition, the challenges pre-departure tests pose to visitors are now no longer outweighed by the public health benefits. “Factors such as the availability of and cost of getting a test are increasingly becoming a barrier for people intending to travel here, especially as other countries wind back testing availability or the requirement for a test on entry themselves.” Travellers will still be required to self-test on Day 0/1 and again on Day 5/6, and if either test results in a positive result, they must then undergo a PCR test. Travellers with Covid-19-like symptoms, such as hayfever, will also have the option of presenting a negative Covid test or a certificate from a health professional stating that they are unlikely to have Covid-19 prior to departure. In photo: Waewaetorea Passage - Bay of Islands, Northland New Zealand

Palladium Opened Its First TRS-Branded Hotel in Ibiza

13th Jun 2022 0

In Ibiza, the Palladium Hotel Group has opened its first TRS-branded hotel. TRS Ibiza Hotel opened on Thursday (9th June) as the island's first all-inclusive, adult-only hotel and the first TRS branded hotel in Europe. The hotel has butler service, three restaurants, five bars, a spa and wellness center, a dry sauna, steam baths, and sensation showers. The Palladium Hotel Group's CEO, Jesus Sobrino, stated:  "Being a brand that is already a consolidated success in the Caribbean and being the first in Europe, we are convinced that it will have excellent acceptance in the market. "With the desire to always create differentiated products, at TRS Ibiza Hotel, the type of service, gastronomy, spa-wellness, design, and entertainment combines to form a special concept of adults-only luxury."

Heathrow Terminal 4 to Reopen on June 14

07th Jun 2022 0

Heathrow Terminal 4 will reopen to passengers on 14th June for the first time in more than two years as the airport prepares for the summer season. Qatar Airways will be the first carrier to return, with approximately 30 more airlines scheduled to fly into the hub throughout July. Heathrow said the reopening on Tuesday would "free up space" in Terminals 2, 3, and 5, and that the pandemic had provided a "opportunity" to refurbish parts of Terminal 4. Toilets, air conditioning, and baggage screening machines were all upgraded as part of the renovation. From 14th June, local buses, Piccadilly Line underground services, TfL rail, and an inter-terminal transfer service will operate into T4. Heathrow confirmed that a search for 1,000 new security officers was underway, and that it was assisting airlines and handlers with their own recruitment efforts. “We have increased our customer service team to help manage queues at check-in, make sure passengers are ready for security and make sure people can catch their flights,” an airport spokesperson said. The spokesperson added operations across Heathrow had “run smoothly over the half term holiday as a result of good planning and collaboration between airport, airlines, handlers and Border Force”. “At peak times there have been longer queues than usual at check-in, security, immigration and baggage reclaim, but it has been well organised and has kept moving,” they said. According to CEO John Holland-Kaye, the airport is "years away" from returning to pre-pandemic levels of passenger traffic. “Reopening Terminal 4 will give airlines at Heathrow extra space across the airport, helping them manage the impact additional travel documents continue to have on check in times,” he said.

Cyprus Entry Requirements Update

03rd Jun 2022 0

Passengers traveling to Cyprus will no longer be required to present any type of vaccination or recovery certificate, as well as a negative COVID test result, as of 1st June 2022. Cyprus entry requirements are the same for all visitors, regardless of COVID-19 vaccination status or recovery from COVID-19. You do not need to provide proof of your vaccination status in order to enter Cyprus. All visitors to Cyprus must meet the same entry requirements, regardless of COVID-19 vaccination status. Visiting the north of Cyprus When visiting the north of Cyprus, unvaccinated visitors from the United Kingdom must provide a negative result from a PCR test taken within 72 hours or a rapid test taken within 24 hours prior to entry. Unvaccinated visitors must also take an additional COVID-19 test within 72 to 120 hours of entry. A negative test result is not required for fully vaccinated travelers upon entry. If you have received a booster shot or two doses of Sinovac, Pfizer Biontech, Sinopharm, Astrazeneca, Janssen, Sputnik, Moderna, Novavax, Covishield, Covaxin, or Canisobio and 14 days have passed since your second shot, you are considered fully vaccinated. If it has been more than 270 days since your second shot, you will be considered unvaccinated. Before traveling, all passengers must complete a Passenger Country Entry Form and, if applicable, upload your negative PCR test result, vaccination certificate with a QR code, or proof of having previously contracted COVID-19 (in the form of a positive PCR test result obtained 30 to 180 days before the date of arrival). You must also have printed copies of these documents with you.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises Reveals its Longest-Ever World Trip for 2025

30th May 2022 0

Regent Seven Seas Cruises has announced its longest-ever world trip for 2025, which will visit 97 ports in 25 countries. The 150-night World Cruise – Away In Wonder on Seven Seas Mariner departs Miami on 7th January 2025, and explores five continents before terminating in San Francisco. The itinerary for the globe trip includes two new ports of call: Robinson Crusoe Island off the coast of Chile and the Japanese island of Hokkaido. As part of the trip, passengers can attend activities in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Auckland, New Zealand, and Bangkok, Thailand. The line will provide agents with a unique 2025 World Cruise sales tool kit, which will include customizable web banners and sales flyers. An 18-night excursion through the Mexican Riviera from San Francisco to Miami via the Panama Canal can be added to the globe cruise.

Spain Finally Relaxes its Covid Entry Regulations

26th May 2022 0

Spain has confirmed a long-awaited relaxation of Covid entrance regulations, allowing unvaccinated adults to enter with a negative test. The move, announced on Saturday, means that UK nationals who have not received the Covid vaccine can now travel to Spain with a negative PCR or antigen test. Previously, UK visitors were only permitted to enter Spain with vaccine certification or proof of viral recovery, a requirement that had been extended until 15th June. However, beginning 21st May, all international visitors must present one of the following documents: Vaccination certificate that meets the standards of the government A certificate of negative testing (PCR or similar) Certificate of recovery issued at least 11 days following positive testing According to Spanish Tourism Minister Reyes Maroto, the "new phase of the pandemic" allowed the country to loosen standards by equating non-EU travelers with those from the EU and Schengen-associated countries. Maroto continued: “This is excellent news, much awaited by the tourism sector, which facilitates the arrival of tourists from outside the EU with a view to guaranteeing safe journeys during the high season. “Spain is becoming one of the most desired destinations in the world.” Spain accepts verification of Covid-19 immunization record from the UK, either online or as a printed download. PCR testing must be performed 72 hours before departure to Spain, and antigen tests must be performed 24 hours before departure. Certificates of recovery will be valid for 180 days from the date of the positive test. Children under the age of 12 are not required to present any form of certificate. The loosening of limitations, according to Advantage Travel Partnership CEO Julia Lo Bue-Said, is "extremely positive news just ahead of the May half-term and peak season." She described it as "very positive" for vacationers and the tourist business, telling the BBC: “However, it is disappointing that Spain has not gone further and removed the need for pre-arrival tests for unvaccinated travellers given the minimal benefit these tests have for public health. “Consumers want to travel with ease and if destinations prohibit this, then they will go elsewhere.” According to an Abta spokesperson: “Spain is the most popular holiday destination for UK holidaymakers, so it’s great that this relaxation of its travel rules will enable all travellers, regardless of their vaccination status, to enjoy a break there this summer. “There are still Covid-19 entry requirements in place, so we’d encourage anyone who is thinking of booking a trip to Spain to book with an Abta travel agent or tour operator who can help them get their documentation together.”

Aman New York Set to Open

19th May 2022 0

As it nears completion on a property in New York, Aman will open its first new hotel since the outbreak began. The opening of Aman New York is the brand's "biggest investment into a single destination to date," completing the transformation of the city's famed Crown Building. Reservations open on 25th July, with stays beginning on August 2 at the brand's 34th hotel worldwide. Aman New York is located on the junction of 57th Street and Fifth Avenue, and guests begin their stay on the 14th floor, beneath a double-height atrium designed by Jean Michel Gathy of Denniston. The hotel includes 83 suites and 22 branded homes and is the group's second urban hotel, following Aman Tokyo. “Our strategy to bring the coveted Aman lifestyle to urban destinations continues apace. A milestone opening, Aman New York marks our greatest investment into a single destination to date,” said Vlad Doronin, chairman and chief executive of Aman. “The hotel introduces an entirely new concept to the city through expansive and unmatched amenities, which propels the brand forward, delivering a guest experience like no other.” The hotel's wellness offering is a focal point, with the main Aman Spa spanning three levels and featuring a 20-metre indoor pool flanked by fire pits and daybeds. Two huge "Spa Houses" have double treatment rooms, Banya and Hammam rooms, as well as private outdoor patios with hot and cold plunge pools, daybeds, and fireplaces. Aman is marketing its Spa Houses as a novel concept for cities, capable of providing an experience equivalent to that of its most isolated resorts. Arva, an Italian restaurant, and Nama, Aman's rendition of Japan's washoku heritage, with a Japanese hinoki wood counter for omakase-style fine dining, are two dining alternatives. There's also a Wine Library, and all three areas are connected by a wraparound Garden Terrace. The 650-square-metre outdoor space includes mirrored pools and spectacular fire pits, as well as a folding glass ceiling. The Jazz Club will also provide a nightlife component to the hotel. Every suite features a working fireplace, which is a first in New York, and the 11 Grand Suites on the 11th and 12th floors may be customized with additional bedrooms to create family-sized quarters. Aman New York joins sibling properties in the United States, Amangani in Wyoming and Amangiri in Utah, with Aman Miami set to open in 2024, one of nine other projects in the pipeline globally. Janu, the group's recently created second brand, which means "soul" in Sanskrit, is also building three hotels in Tokyo, Saudi Arabia, and Montenegro. Aman also added an Italian mountain hotel to its repertoire in 2020, with the addition of the family-run Rosa Alpina.

A-Rosa River Voyages Lifts More Covid Measures

16th May 2022 0

The line has verified that guests on A-Rosa River Voyages will no longer be forced to wear a mask, perform a quick antigen test at the start of the bulk of its cruises, or complete a health questionnaire. The decision to loosen Covid-19 restrictions was decided after the German  river line's Care Team assessed the current pandemic scenario and the ongoing reduction in the number of cases. A-Rosa also stated that onboard cleaning and disinfection measures will be maintained to ensure hygiene standards are met. Since March, the line has been running on the Rhine, Danube, Rhone, Seine, and Douro. Those who sail on the Douro will still need to be tested before embarking on their voyages. Some of the nations through which A-ships Rosa's travel still require different papers for admission, and all passengers over the age of 12 will require proof of full vaccination or proof of recovery. Children under the age of 12 do not need any immunization documentation. A-Rosa River Cruises UK and Ireland managing director Lucia Rowe stated: “After careful consideration by our experienced team, we’ve been able to reduce our protocols further. “We continued with some measures after the legal requirement to do so was removed by various destinations, as we felt it was important to do so at the time. “The Spa-Rosa with its sauna, gym and treatment rooms, plus our pools have also been fully operational with no restrictions.” She added: “This further relaxation in our measures means we can finally return to offering as much flexibility and normality as is possible.” Rowe added that the line's "primary objective" during A-Rosa operations was "keeping everyone safe." The following was added: “The wellbeing and health of all guests and crew member remains a top priority and the Care Team will continue to monitor the situation, and if necessary, will adjust the protocols accordingly as regulations are amended or expire.”

Tui Resume Flights Between Dublin and Cancun Next Summer

11th May 2022 0

Tui will resume flights between Dublin and Cancun next summer, offering a variety of 14-night vacations in over 70 hotels along Mexico's Caribbean coast. Beginning 5th June 2023, Tui will fly to Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula every Monday for seven weeks, utilizing its own Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft. From €1,799 per person for a 14-night all-inclusive stay at the Riu Lupita in Playacar. Each deposit is €150. It comes after Tui announced a summer 2023 Orlando program with Belfast International, which will also begin in June. According to Craig Morgan, Tui's head of Ireland, “The appetite for travel is stronger than ever and customers who may not have travelled abroad at all, or as much as they would’ve liked over the last two years, are now planning well ahead into next year and setting their sights further afield. "With this non-stop flight of approximately 10 hours, the stunning coastline coupled with our wide range of hotels and unique holiday experiences is sure to make Cancun and Riviera Maya popular choices for Irish holidaymakers again next summer.” Cancun, Morgan added, was the ideal vacation spot for couples, families, and friends.

Walt Disney World Resort in Florida to Open a Guardians of the Galaxy Rollercoaster

07th May 2022 0

A new Guardians of the Galaxy rollercoaster is planned to open at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, the first Disney World attraction to feature the blockbuster superhero film and the first reverse launch for a Disney coaster, will open to tourists visiting EPCOT at the resort on 27th May. Popular characters from the franchise appear in the ride, including Rocket, Groot, Drax, Gamora, and Star-Lord. The new attraction is part of Walt Disney World's 50th Anniversary celebrations and marks another milestone in EPCOT's ongoing makeover. Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind is EPCOT's first "other-world" showcase pavilion, located in the park's newly renamed World Discovery district. The attraction incorporates historic pop music into its experience, with songs from the 1970s and 1980s playing as visitors speed through space.

EasyJet Starts Offering UK to Greece and France Flights

29th Apr 2022 0

EasyJet has begun offering flights from the United Kingdom to four Greek island destinations — Kos, Kefalonia, Corfu, and Chania in Crete – as well as Nantes, France. The low-cost carrier now claims to be the largest carrier flying from the UK to the Greek islands. EasyJet vacations offer package holidays for all new routes, including beach breaks from £279 and city stays from £169. From 30th June, Luton-Kefalonia flights will operate twice weekly, with one-way prices starting at £40.99. The Manchester-Chania route will begin operating twice weekly on 28th June, with one-way tickets beginning at £25.99. From 3rd July, flights between Liverpool and Kos will be available weekly on Sundays, starting at £39.99 one-way. From June, Kefalonia and Corfu routes will operate twice a week, with one-way prices to Kefalonia starting at £40.99 and Corfu starting at £28.99. From 29th June, one-way flights from £29.99 will be available between Glasgow and Chania on Wednesdays and Sundays. From 27th June, the new Birmingham-Nantes flights will operate twice a week, with one-way tickets starting at £29.99. EasyJet's UK country manager, Ali Gayward, said: “We’re delighted to add more new routes to our UK network for the summer and to provide our customers with an even wider range of fantastic destinations to enjoy.” Meanwhile, easyJet has stated that it will collaborate with GKN Aerospace to reduce carbon emissions by implementing zero-emission technologies. GKN Aerospace's Hydrogen Combustion (H2JET) and Hydrogen Fuel Cell (H2GEAR) technology will be supported by easyJet. easyJet's director of flight operations, David Morgan, said: “We know that technology is a key driver to achieve our decarbonisation targets, with hydrogen propulsion a frontrunner for short-haul airlines like easyJet. “Cross-industry partnerships are key to developing these promising new technologies and we look forward to collaborating with GKN Aerospace to support bringing this technology to maturity as early as possible.”

Venice to Implement Admission Fee Due to Overtourism

25th Apr 2022 0

In an effort to combat overtourism, Venice is scheduled to implement a daily admission fee of up to €10 beginning in June. Following a busy Easter weekend with an expected 125,000 visitors, the Italian city has announced that an entry fee pilot plan will be implemented, requiring visitors to book and pay. Tourists will enter through an electronic turnstile and pay a fee ranging from €3 to €10, depending on how crowded the city is on that particular day. If the plan works out, it will be made permanent in 2023. Luigi Brugnaro, the Mayor of Venice, remarked on Twitter: “Today many have understood that making the booking system is the right path to take for a more balanced management of tourism. “We will be the first in the world to carry out this difficult experimentation.” For many years, the Italian city has struggled to deal with the increasing number of guests, and last summer it prohibited huge cruise ships.

Cyprus Loosened CyprusFlightPass Policy

21st Apr 2022 0

Cyprus has removed the obligation for visitors to fill out an online passenger locating form before arrival. On Monday, 18th April, Cyprus's CyprusFlightPass policy was loosened, as was Cyprus's Covid nation categorization system. Passengers who are completely vaccinated and have a valid certificate of recovery can now visit Cyprus without having to fill out a form, take a test, or go through quarantine. Unvaccinated travelers, or those who do not have a valid recovery certificate, must present documentation of a negative PCR test done 72 hours before departure, or an antigen test was taken 24 hours before departure. To enter, children under the age of 12 do not need to take a test. Travelers aged 12 and up who do not have a vaccination or recovery certificate must show their test results in paper or electronic form; self-administered tests will not be accepted. "You may be asked to do a further test upon arrival to Cyprus. Refusal to comply will result in you needing to quarantine at your own expense," UK Foreign Office travel advice.

US Extends its Mask Mandate Until May 3

14th Apr 2022 0

Airlines in the United States have been pressing for the federal mask law for public transportation to be repealed. As a result of the regulation, all types of public transportation, including cabs and Ubers, as well as flights, now require the use of a mask. This is despite the fact that the CDC recommends not wearing a mask indoors in most cases. The mask mandate was supposed to end on the 18th April, but Biden chose to prolong it for another two weeks. This is regrettable, but at least it will only last two weeks instead of the customary month. The order has been extended until 3rd May by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to enable more time to research the BA.2 omicron subvariant. According to a spokesman, “In order to assess the potential impact the rise of cases has on severe disease, including hospitalizations and deaths, and health care system capacity, the CDC order will remain in place at this time.”

Marriott International to Open its First Luxury Safari Lodge in Kenya

11th Apr 2022 0

Next year, Marriott International will open its first luxury safari lodge. There will be 20 individual tents at the lodge, as well as a presidential canvas-topped pavilion. It will be located in Kenya's Masai Mara National Reserve, overlooking the Talek River. A restaurant, lounge bar, spa, and outdoor terrace with fire pits will be among the shared spaces. Traditional Masai dance performances will be held in the evenings. The lodge plans to hire up to 50 Masai community members to assist with land and wildlife conservation. Guests will also have the opportunity to participate in educational activities. In June, the reserve, which is home to lions, elephants, and rhinos, welcomes migrating wildebeest on their annual 1,800-mile journey from Tanzania's Serengeti. The project, Marriott's first safari offering, will be a collaboration with family-run Baraka Lodges, with Kristina Zanic overseeing the interior design, which will be inspired by the scenery. Bruce Rohr, vice-president and brand leader at JW Marriott, Marriott International said, “JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge will offer guests a luxurious backdrop to make once-in-a-lifetime memories as they connect with nature and wildlife as never before.” “We are thrilled the JW Marriott brand will be welcoming adventure travellers, including families, to this breath-taking part of the world.” Marriott International's chief development officer for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, Jerome Briet, added:  “This landmark project is in response to travellers’ growing desire for experiential offerings that enable them to build a deeper connection with their chosen destination.”

JetBlue will Begin Service from Boston to Heathrow and Gatwick This Summer

06th Apr 2022 0

JetBlue, a low-cost American airline, will begin service from Boston to Heathrow and Gatwick this summer. On 19th July, nonstop service between Boston Logan International Airport and Gatwick will begin, followed by Boston-Heathrow on 22nd August. London is one of the most popular destinations among the airline's enormous Boston client base, according to the company. JetBlue's chief executive, Robin Hayes, said: “Our strategy of flying to both Heathrow and Gatwick airports has been a success for us in New York, and we’ve secured slots to be able to do the same in Boston, becoming the only airline in New England offering flights to London’s two main airports.” JetBlue's new Airbus A321 Long Range (LR) aircraft will carry 24 refurbished Mint suites and 114 core (economy) seats on daily flights. The A321LR, according to the airline, combines the range of a wide-body aircraft with the cost-effectiveness of a single-aisle aircraft. From Gatwick, round-trip flights start at £349 for core and £1,449 for Mint, while from Heathrow, round-trip fares start at £399 for core and £1,499 for Mint. JetBlue began transatlantic service with Heathrow in August 2021, followed by Gatwick in September 2021. Gatwick's vice-president of aviation development, Stephanie Wear, said: “JetBlue’s new service to Boston is a really exciting route to be adding to Gatwick’s expanding long-haul network, providing passengers with access to a 10th destination in North America this summer.”

British Airways Returns to Australia After Two Years

31st Mar 2022 0

Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, British Airways has returned to Australia with the first flight between London and Sydney in two years. The carrier hailed the daily service of Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft from Heathrow to Singapore as a "momentous milestone." With a total distance of 10,020 nautical miles, it is the airline's longest route. Noella Ferns, Asia Pacific's head of sales, said: “British Airways has always had a strong link to Australia. For both business and leisure travelers, London is the major gateway to Europe and one of the most popular destinations for our customers down under. “Today we are thrilled to fly to Australia once again and play our part in reuniting families and friends with their loved ones, including two of our cabin crew members, Ross and Mark who are operating on this very special flight and reunited with their families in Sydney after two years apart.” Geoff Culbert, the CEO of Sydney Airport, added: “It’s terrific to welcome British Airways back to Sydney airport as it resumes one of the most iconic routes in international aviation. “The cultural, business and family connections between Australia and the UK run deep, and it will be great to see the Union flag tail on the BA aircraft back. “Since the opening of our international border in February a number of international airlines have returned to Sydney and capacity is increasing – a welcome sight as we gradually climb out of the pandemic and put two years of pain behind us.”

Marriott Enters the African Safari Market

28th Mar 2022 0

Marriott has entered the African safari market. The JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge will be located in the Mara National Reserve, which is one of Africa's most recognized wildlife conservation and wilderness areas. The JW Marriott is one of their more upscale hotel options, and it is set to open in 2023. JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge's location, overlooking the banks of the River Talek and on the outskirts of the reserve, will provide visitors with an elevated camp from which to explore the Masai Mara National Reserve, its breathtaking vistas, rich wildlife, and boundless plains. The new lodge's plans call for 20 private tents, including one presidential canvas-topped pavilion and two interconnected canopied suites, each with its own terrace overlooking the river and suitable for families. A restaurant, lounge bar, spa, and a big outdoor patio with fire pits will all be shared spaces, with traditional Masai dance performances taking place in the evening. The reserve will provide visitors with the opportunity to see the Masai Mara's "Big Five": lions, leopards, buffalos, rhinoceros, and elephants. Between June and September, the reserve hosts the annual great wildebeest migration, which sees over 10 million animals trek 1,800 km from Tanzania's Serengeti to the reserve.  

Scoot Launches Gatwick-Bangkok-Singapore Service

23rd Mar 2022 0

Scoot, a low-cost carrier, launched a Gatwick-Bangkok-Singapore service on Tuesday (22nd March). Scoot, a Singapore Airlines subsidiary, will fly three times per week. Its inauguration coincides with Gatwick's reopening of the South Terminal on Sunday (27th March). British Airways will relocate its daily flight to Islamabad from Heathrow to Gatwick on Sunday. Tui Airways will restart Orlando flights the next day. Air Transat will begin flying to Montreal on 2nd May and Quebec on 11th May as part of its Gatwick expansion. The new service from London to Quebec will be the only direct flight between the two cities. British Airways will resume service to New York on 28th May, while Qatar Airways will resume daily service to Doha on 5th June. Norse Atlantic Airways, a new airline, is also set to begin operations. This summer, Gatwick will offer a total of 30 long-haul trips. Gatwick's vice-president of aviation development, Stephanie Wear, said: “Adding the likes of Bangkok, Quebec, Montreal and Islamabad to the fantastic selection of long-haul routes from Gatwick is great news for our passengers, including tourists and businesses across the south-east. “The additions of Scoot and Norse Atlantic to the Gatwick family highlights the importance of Gatwick to airlines and we are equally delighted to welcome Qatar Airways back to the airport this summer too.   “As we look to grow back following the impacts of the pandemic, we hope to be able to add more long-haul routes to our range of destinations and continue to reconnect people and places across the world.”

Canada Removes Pre-departure Covid-19 Test Requirement for Fully Vaccinated Travelers

18th Mar 2022 0

From 1st April, the Canadian federal government will no longer need fully vaccinated travelers to obtain pre-departure Covid-19 tests. The statement was hailed by Air Canada as "great news for the whole travel and tourist industry." Air Canada's vice-president of government and community relations, David Rheault, said: “The removal of pre-departure testing requirements will continue to accelerate and stimulate the recovery of Canada’s travel and tourism industry, which we are committed to help rebuild through the restoration of our global network.” The airline's recovery "remains strong," he added, adding that it has extended its domestic, transborder, European, and South Pacific international route networks. Barcelona, Copenhagen, Madrid, Milan, and Venice are among the 33 European, African, and Middle Eastern routes that will be relaunched.

UK to Stand Down all Remaining Covid Travel Restrictions

15th Mar 2022 0

From Friday, all remaining Covid travel restrictions, including as the Passenger Locator Form and non-vaccinated arrivals testing, will be "stood down" for UK arrivals. In a tweet on Monday afternoon, Transport Secretary Grant Shapps announced the move, claiming it will provide "more freedom" ahead of the Easter school vacations. According to Shapps: “All remaining Covid travel measures, including the Passenger Locator Form and tests for all arrivals, will be stood down for travel to the UK from 4am on 18th March. “These changes are possible due to our vaccine rollout and mean greater freedom in time for Easter.” The language of Shapps' tweet suggests that the measures might be reinstated if judged necessary in the future. The administration has previously stated that if a new form of worry emerges, it will be prepared to take the required steps. Sajid Javid, the health secretary, also tweeted on the elimination of tests and forms, saying: “This is thanks to our incredible vaccine programme which has seen over 8 in 10 adults across the UK boosted.” Agents, operators, airlines, and trade associations applauded the announcement, claiming it will boost Easter and summer bookings. Chief CEO of Jet2.com and Jet2holidays, Steve Heapy, said: “Two years after the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, today’s announcement marks international travel finally returning to normal. “With Easter just around the corner and summer fast approaching, this announcement comes at the perfect time.”

7

Essential Beach Packing List for Families with Kids

05th Mar 2022 0

Ask anyone about their fondest memories, and they will undoubtedly include fun trips with the entire family. A day with your loved ones is the perfect opportunity to bond with each other, learn new things, and have an eventful and joyous break. The beach is among the most popular places to have a gala time with the family. It offers ample opportunities for members of all ages to indulge in activities of their choice. In particular, the beach is an idyllic spot to visit with kids. Not only do they have plentiful space to run around freely, but they can also partake in several events, from sandcastle building to gaining knowledge about visible marine life.  However, a few specific considerations are a must for a trip to the beach with children. The essential beach packing list for families with kids covers the bare necessities one needs to keep the young ones safe, comfortable, and busy during a memorable day by the water.       Sunscreen Sunscreen is the most important item on any beach packing list for families with kids. Children, in particular, have delicate skin and are more susceptible to the harmful effects of the sun’s rays. Since the warmth of the sun can be deceptive, and it is nearly impossible to keep kids in the shade at all times, try and apply the first layer of sunscreen on them before reaching the beach. Furthermore, it is equally essential to continuously re-apply sunscreen on kids generously, all over their bodies and not just the face. An SPF lip balm is another must for kids, as is investing in an environmentally friendly sunscreen without any chemicals. [caption id="attachment_52900" align="alignnone" width="1005"] Beautiful young woman in blue bikini at beach applying sunscreen on face for protection on a sunny day. Mature woman with freckles and red hair enjoying summer holiday while applying suntan lotion. Portrait of smiling lady with healthy skin.[/caption] First Aid Kit Be it for a road trip, an overseas vacation, or the beach, a first aid kit is essential on any packing list for families with kids. While we all wish for a safe holiday, accidents do occur, and it is best to prepare for them rather than run around frantically if something happens.  On the beach, it’s common for children to get minor scrapes and bruises while playing. Therefore, a kit with bandages for cuts, Band-Aids for scratches, and a few over-the-counter medications and antiseptic creams can prove to be extremely handy when required. You can also keep any personal medicine in the same box. Another must-keep item in any beach packing list is bug spray. Depending on the surroundings of your beach, there are likely to be bugs in the vicinity. A bug spray over the sunscreen or a bug-repellent band can keep the tiny tots from getting those irritating mosquito bites. Moreover, keeping in mind the present state of the world, your packing list should also consist of disinfectant hand wipes and sprays, hand sanitizers, and masks.           [caption id="attachment_52901" align="alignnone" width="1005"] Sunny summer day packing first aid kit and SPF in an open travel suitcase.[/caption] Clothing Essentials Comfortable clothing and the latest in swimwear fashion are a given when preparing a beach packing list. However, you need to carry a few more clothing fundamentals when taking kids.   Even the purest of sandy beaches have shells and sometimes glass on them. While tiny hard particles might not hurt adults, they can be discomforting for children. So, remember to take a pair of water shoes along with sandals for children.  As for further protection from the sun, you’ll need a hat and sunglasses too. And if your child is yet not potty trained, include a couple of swimming diapers.    [caption id="attachment_52899" align="alignnone" width="1005"] woman hands packing a luggage for a new journey and travel for a long weekend[/caption] Food and drinks The excitement of being next to the sea can make children forget everything, including food. Typically, beaches have cafes or kiosks selling a variety of snacks and drinks. However, not every beach has them, and if they do, sometimes the restaurants sell food at a marked-up price.  Hence, it’s a good idea to include a few eatables and drinks in your beach packing list for kids. Try and pack a mix of healthy and comfort bites. Chips and sandwiches are easy to eat. Fruits are better, especially when pre-cut, so kids can nibble on them while playing. In terms of liquids, nothing beats water, the perfect drink to keep children hydrated. Still, since you are on holiday, it’s okay to pack juice or a soda as a special treat.     [caption id="attachment_52898" align="alignnone" width="1005"] Sandwiches with bread, lettuce, cucumber, and sausages in a plastic container.[/caption] Beach essentials Unless you’re going to a known beach, it can get tricky when planning a day by the shore. It’s thus advisable to carry a few beach essentials, whether it’s a beach packing list for families with kids or not.  One requires beach towels, for example, to dry off the water, and they can also double up as a place to sit on the sand. With kids, an additional beach mat is a more suitable choice. You can use it to spread the food, and children can even lie down on it if the sand is hot. If you live near a beach, consider investing in a beach canopy. Easy to pack and carry in the car, a portable awning provides much-needed shade on hot afternoons.    [caption id="attachment_52897" align="alignnone" width="1005"] Sun Hat, Bag, Flip flops And Sunglasses On Seashore[/caption] Bags and Carry-ons Considering there are a few items to pack for a beach day with kids, you also need to plan for various bags. A beach bag for your towels and snacks is what most people bring. It is also worthwhile to have a waterproof backpack to store electronics, a book, and your first-aid kit. If required, you can even lock it.  Additionally, pack a tote bag for all the wet clothes you’ll have to take back. And there is no harm in packing a few Ziploc bags in case you have leftover food or need to protect your electronics from the water.  [caption id="attachment_52896" align="alignnone" width="1005"] packing a luggage for a new journey and travel for a long weekend[/caption] Electronics Typically, the beach is the last place to carry electronics. The combination of sand and water can be deadly for most devices, and there is also the chance of items getting lost or stolen. However, since we are so dependent on digital devices these days, the best we can do is take a few precautions for their safety. For your phone, buy a waterproof case, and instead of a standard camera, get a waterproof one. And if your child will use the phone, get a cover with a lanyard to save it from washing away in the water. [caption id="attachment_52895" align="alignnone" width="1005"] waterproof smartphone case for taking pictures underwater in the summer in the pool[/caption] Beach Toys Toys are an essential element of every beach packing list for families with kids. They do take up space but also make the entire beach experience more exciting for children.  Swimming goggles, flippers, and floaties are the three basic items you’ll need before sending kids into the water.  On land, the possibilities are endless. A beach ball, plastic shovel and buckets for making sandcastles, a sifter to find hidden treasures, water guns, a kite, or a bubble-maker; the beach is a passport for kids to have an activity-filled day they will fondly remember for a long time. [caption id="attachment_52894" align="alignnone" width="1005"] Cute little girl playing with sand on tropical beach[/caption]

St. Regis Hotels & Resorts to Open its First Hotel in UK

02nd Mar 2022 0

St. Regis Hotels & Resorts will open its first hotel in the United Kingdom in 2023. To bring the brand to Mayfair, London, parent firm Marriott International has struck a management agreement with Cola Holdings and The Westbury Hotel Limited. The former Westbury Mayfair Hotel, on Bond Street and Conduit Street, will undergo a £90 million redevelopment and transformation, which will include the addition of an eighth floor, a rear extension to create enhanced public areas, and renovations to the building's façade and the drop-off area outside the main entrance. The St. Regis London will have 196 rooms and suites, as well as a namesake restaurant, a speakeasy jazz bar, a fitness center, and a spa when it opens. The iconic Polo Bar, which was initially constructed for the Phipps family of America, who were passionate polo players and creators of the Westbury Hotel in New York and London, will be retained, and guests will be able to experience a local spin on the St. Regis' signature cocktail, the Bloody Mary. “This is a pivotal moment for St. Regis Hotels & Resorts as we bring this cherished brand to the United Kingdom,”  vice president and global brand leader of St. Regis Hotels & Resorts, George Fleck said. “St. Regis offers an exquisite experience inspired by the exceptional private retreats of its founding family, the Astors, whose commitment to excellence, sophisticated style, and passion for innovation continue to define the guest experience today. “We are delighted to bring the brand’s timeless legacy, cherished traditions and bespoke service to one of the finest addresses in London, and look forward to becoming the city’s most glamorous destination for locals and travellers alike.” Marriott Worldwide's vice president of international hotel development, Paul Thomas, added: “We are delighted to celebrate the signing of The St. Regis London with Cola Holdings and The Westbury Hotel Limited. “London is a highly sought-after market for luxury travellers and this landmark signing underscores our commitment to growing Marriott International’s dynamic portfolio in strategic destinations.” Marriott International now manages 16 locations in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa under the St. Regis brand.

Disneyland Paris Pride is Set to Return in June

24th Feb 2022 0

Disneyland Paris Pride will return with musical performances, a parade, and a variety of attractions on 11th June. As part of the celebration, Mika, Bilal Hassani, and Becky Hill will perform in the Production Courtyard starting at 8 p.m. A parade will also take place, including Disney characters dressed in rainbow-colored outfits. Meanwhile, a number of attractions will remain open until 2 a.m., and as part of Disney's "Magic LipSync Along" contest, one person will be named "star of the evening."

Singapore Relaxes Testing Requirements for Fully Vaccinated Tourists

21st Feb 2022 0

From Tuesday, 22nd February, Covid testing for UK visitors traveling in Singapore via a Vaccinated Travel Lane (VTL) will be eased. Rather than undergoing a PCR test when they arrive at the airport, fully vaccinated travelers who enter through the VTL scheme will be requested to perform an antigen test within 24 hours of their arrival. Additionally, for fully vaccinated arrivals on VTL flights, the present requirement for antigen tests after days two and seven will be waived. Singapore's Ministry of Health has announced that new entrance restrictions would take effect on Monday, 21st February at 23:59 local time. Singapore's VTL flights operate from 24 countries, including the United Kingdom and its royal territories. Without prior authorization, only Singapore citizens and permanent residents are permitted to enter the country. Singapore will lessen the requirement that VTL newcomers have only visited other VTL nations in the previous 14 days to seven days. Singapore plans to "progressively offer VTLs with more destinations as we strive towards facilitating fully vaccinated travel," according to the government. There will be a new VTL with Hong Kong, as well as VTLs with Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates that were previously postponed (UAE). With the inauguration of VTL (Marine) between Bintan and Batam, quarantine-free sea travel between Singapore and Indonesia will be resumed. The first ferry trip will take place on 25th February, and applications will open on 22nd February. The Singapore Tourism Board's area director for northern and southern Europe, Michael Rodriguez, said: “As travellers from the UK are now booking holidays again, we are pleased to share this latest update and hope this will encourage visitors to book their next holiday to Singapore where they can enjoy quarantine-free travel and reimagined experiences with safety in mind.” The VTL scheme requires all visitors to Singapore to fly on designated VTL aircraft. They can take an authorized VTL flight into Singapore after transiting through another VTL nation. Vaccinated Travel Pass (VTP) requests must be submitted between three and 60 days ahead of the desired date of entrance into Singapore.

Canada Plans to Ease Covid Travel Restrictions for Fully Vaccinated Visitors

16th Feb 2022 0

After the country announced a "phased easing" of its border regulations earlier this month, fully vaccinated travelers will no longer require a PCR test to enter Canada. On 28th February, fully vaccinated passengers will be able to meet entrance requirements with a quick Covid antigen test (taken no more than 72 hours before their booked trip) or a molecular test (taken no more than 72 hours before their scheduled flight). Antigen tests conducted at home, according to the Canadian Public Health Agency, are "insufficient" to meet the pre-entry requirements and must be administered by a "laboratory, healthcare establishment, or telemedicine provider." Recent Covid statistics showed that the Omicron variant's peak in Canada had passed and that it was time to "transition towards a more sustainable strategy to long-term control of Covid-19," according to the agency. Travelers will be "randomly picked" for testing upon arrival in Canada, but they will not be obliged to quarantine while waiting for their test results. The quarantine will continue to apply to children under the age of 12 who travel with fully vaccinated adults. It was time, according to recent Covid statistics, to "transition into a more sustainable strategy to long-term control of Covid-19," and that the Omicron variant's peak in Canada had passed. Upon arriving in Canada, travelers will be "randomly selected" for testing, but they will not be required to quarantine while waiting for their results. Children under the age of 12 who travel with fully vaccinated adults will continue to be subject to quarantine. Unvaccinated foreign citizens would not be allowed to enter Canada unless they qualify for an exemption, and unvaccinated travelers will still be required to test on arrival, on Day 8 and for 14 days in quarantine. The government of Canada will reduce the level of its travel health warning from 3 to 2 – implying that it will no longer advise Canadians to avoid travel for non-essential reasons. Transport Canada will also lift its present flight limitations on 28th February at 16:00 EST, allowing foreign passenger flights to all Canadian airports.

7

San Jose – The Best City Day Trips

11th Feb 2022 0

The biggest of all cities found in Costa Rica, San Jose is the diverse capital of this Central American country. Found in the Central Valley of the country, San Jose is well placed for those short on time – the centralized location allows for a variety of day trips that can be organized from the city. This ensures that anyone can enjoy the very best of Costa Rica, no matter how long you intend to stay in the country. Due to the ever-changing topography of the landscape, as well as the many National Parks dotted around, journey times from San Jose can take up to a couple of hours. However, most can still be enjoyed in a day. There are a multitude of tour companies within Costa Rica, as well as the web, that organize stress-free tours departing from San Jose. Some trips may include multiple excursions.  Whilst booking through a tour operator may be easier, by no means is this the only way. Public transport throughout the country is well maintained and relatively reliable. This allows visitors to book and enjoy trips in their own time. If possible, hiring a car will allow for maximum freedom and accessibility.  Poas Volcano  One of the first National Parks to be established in Costa Rica, Poas Volcano is just an hour-long journey from the capital. Due to the close proximity of the capital, this National Park is one of the most popular parks in Costa Rica. With good reason too. A staggering 2600m, you will be welcomed with mesmerizing views of the valley below and of the biggest crater lakes in the world.  As this is an active volcano, guests are limited to just 20 minutes at the observation point. Here, you can witness the electrifying blue crater lake – a build-up of chemical compounds, causing some incredible geological spectacles; from fumaroles to geysers. Managed by SINAC, a government-affiliated organization, tickets must be independently purchased through their website beforehand.  [caption id="attachment_52524" align="alignnone" width="1005"] Vulcano Poas in Costa Rica - amazing crater and Landscape of Volcano[/caption] Doka Estate Coffee Plantation The valleys around San Jose are some of the most fertile soils in the country. The slopes of Poas Volcano are no exception. Alongside a favorable climate, this is the optimal growing requirement for coffee. The slopes here are adorned with coffee plantations; one of the countries most prized crops.  Whilst there are many coffee-growing families in this region, one of the most famed is the Doka Estate Coffee Plantation. Learn and discover the fascinating process of coffee production. The best time to visit Doka Estate is between September - January, as the entire plantation transform red – coffee berry season.   [caption id="attachment_52526" align="alignnone" width="1005"] Ripe and unripe coffee beans in the coffee plant. Robusta coffee berries in a coffee plantation[/caption] La Paz Waterfall Gardens  Still, on the slopes of Poas Volcano, discover the incredible reserve of La Paz. Within the Vara Blanca Cloud Forest system, La Paz offers a range of natural falls and spectacular scenery. Nature is at the very forefront of this reserve, from the beautifully landscaped gardens to the rugged jungle slopes.  Hike the 3.5km of trails that extend through the forests and discover the rich array of life on offer. The site also houses a wildlife sanctuary. Working with the Costa Rican government, injured animals are rehabilitated here. Iconic animals such as jaguar and red-eye tree frogs can be found here.  [caption id="attachment_50700" align="alignnone" width="1005"] In the rainforest, a view upstream of one of the thundering waterfalls at the La Paz Waterfall Gardens in Costa Rica.[/caption] Sarchí Rich in culture, Sarchí is an escape from the wild nature of Costa Rica. Here, visitors can engorge themselves with the historic nature of the region.  Just under an hour from San Jose, Sarchí is an introduction to the countries artistic flare. However, there is one thing in particular that has put Sarchí on the map: oxcarts. These simple wooden structures are a nod to past farming practices and have now become a specialized trade. Carts are intricately painted and ornately decorated in a range of bright, vibrant colors.  [caption id="attachment_51950" align="alignnone" width="1005"] Sarchi, Costa Rica: A typical oxcart in front of the well-known Chaverri Ox Carts Factory (Fábrica de Carretas Joaquín Chaverri), where the artisans make the typical ornate ox carts. The village of Sarchí is famous for its handicrafts.[/caption] Arenal Volcano and Hot Springs A slightly longer drive of up 3 hours, Arenal is certainly worth the trip. One of the most popular destinations in the country, Arenal is the home of the famed Arenal Volcano. Once one of the most active volcanos in the country, now attracts a range of tourists – from birders and thrill-seekers to those seeking relaxation.  Although it is recommended to spend a few days here, there are many activities that can be done in a shorter time frame of a day. Hike in the National Park, explore the hanging bridges or relax in one of the many hot springs that can be found in the area. Hot springs are naturally found pools of water, heated by the power of the volcano. The perfect way to soak up the tranquil rainforest vibes.  [caption id="attachment_52026" align="alignnone" width="1005"] Arenal Volcano rising in distance with clouds surrounding[/caption] Manuel Antonio National Park  Another popular day tour from San Jose, Manuel Antonio offers the luxury of a rainforest AND beach. Again, roughly 3 hours from the city, visitors to this Pacific coastal town will be rewarded with an opportunity to spot wild animals and relax on one of the best beaches in Costa Rica.  Being the smallest National Park in Costa Rica, Manuel Antonio offers a series of activities, from hiking and snorkeling, to watersports and nature watching. Incredibly, for such a small park, visitors have the chance to spot many iconic, and endangered, species. Such animals include the Central American Squirrel Monkey, three-toed sloths, and scarlet macaws.  Manuel Antonio is relatively easy to reach via bus from San Jose, and leaves multiple times throughout the day.  [caption id="attachment_51963" align="alignnone" width="1005"] Beach in Manuel Antonio National Park (Costa Rica).[/caption] Irazu Volcano  The tallest volcano in Costa Rica, Irazu is a must-see. Just under 2 hours’ drive from the city, Irazu is perfect for a day trip from San Jose.  Although the volcano viewpoint boasts incredible scenery and Instagram-worthy shots, there isn’t a great deal to do at the crater other than marvel at the beauty. If you are driving, you may have the opportunity to discover more about the slopes of Irazu. If you are an avid ghost enthusiast, then a stop at Finca Sanatorio Duran may just be for you. Thought to be one of the most haunted places in Costa Rica, this abandoned tuberculosis hospital is a hotspot for those brave enough to venture inside.  If ghosts and ghouls aren’t for you, why not explore the forest of Prussia. Unlike many habitats in Costa Rica, which typically offer exotic tropical trees, Prussia offers an extensive pine forest and beautiful viewpoints.  [caption id="attachment_52527" align="alignnone" width="1005"] A green lagoon sits inside the crater of Volcan Irazu in central Costa Rica.[/caption]

Bermuda Lightens Covid Entry Requirements

08th Feb 2022 0

Bermuda is using updated Covid-19 guidelines in order to simplify the process for vaccinated travelers arriving on the island. According to the Bermuda Tourism Authority (BTA), the amended restrictions will continue to safeguard the safety of all citizens and visitors while also making it more convenient for tourists. Within two days after landing on the island, all guests will be required to produce documentation of current vaccination status and a negative Covid-19 test result – either antigen or PCR. According to the new protocols: Travelers must fill out a Travellers Authorization form with these details 24–48 hours before their arrival. Having received a second dose of the vaccine within six months, or three doses of the vaccine, is considered up-to-date vaccination status. Upon arrival, no additional testing will be required. If a return test is required by the nation of origin, Bermuda will automatically schedule and offer it to visitors. For bookings made before 20th February, a special offer with hotel and resort discounts of up to 50% has been extended. Charles Jeffers, the BTA's chief executive, stated: “We welcome visitors from around the world with travel guidelines that ensure their safety as well as their convenience, and our updated protocols will make visiting Bermuda even easier. “Our hotels and local businesses are open with the Bermudian hospitality for which we are known. There’s never been a better time to visit.” Douglas Trueblood, the company's Chief Sales and Marketing Officer added: “People are ready to travel, and Bermuda is eager to welcome them back.”

EasyJet to Launch a New Route from Gatwick to Krk

02nd Feb 2022 0

This summer, EasyJet will launch a new route from Gatwick to the Croatian island of Krk. From the 3rd of May, flights will fly twice weekly on Tuesdays and Saturdays. The new route will be available for purchase later this week. The increase comes as the airline approaches its 20th year of service from Gatwick. Over the last two decades, the airline is said to have transported more than 200 million people to and from London Airport, and has added more than 1.1 million additional seats for next summer. Over the last 20 years, Ali Gayward, easyJet's UK national manager, said the airline has "remained committed" to "offering even more choice" for its passengers flying to and from the airport. "We recently added over a million extra seats from the airport for next summer and new routes such as our new flights to Krk off the coast of Croatia, continuing to provide passengers with an ever-greater range of destinations," Gayward added.

Disneyland Paris to Stage its First-ever Drone Exhibition

25th Jan 2022 0

As part of its 30th-anniversary celebrations, Disneyland Paris will stage its first-ever drone exhibition on 6th March. Guests will be able to participate in the event, which will feature 200 drones, prior to the Disney Illuminations display. The new pre-show, dubbed Disney D-Light, will use video projections, lit water jets, lighting effects, mist, Disney music, and drone choreography to "provide an additional touch of magic surrounding the iconic castle," which has been rebuilt especially for the occasion. The synchronized drones will form a shimmering figure "30" in the sky above Sleeping Beauty Castle, with the new 30th-anniversary theme music "Un monde qui s'illumine" playing in the backdrop. It will be the first time that a Disney Park uses drone technology in an outdoor show above its castle. A fresh spectacle will be presented every day on Central Plaza in front of Sleeping Beauty Castle to commemorate the occasion. It will feature more than 30 Disney characters and dancers, as well as new colorful floats and a distinctive soundtrack, and will be divided into three themes.

6

The best things to do in Samara, Costa Rica

23rd Jan 2022 0

Samara is one of those places that may not be at the tip of tongues, but it certainly should be. This lesser-known beach town of Guanacaste, or more specifically the Nicoya Peninsula, certainly knows how to pack a punch.  It’s a known fact throughout Costa Rica, that Guanacaste is home to some of the most spectacular beaches in the entire country. With world-famous sunsets, incredible wildlife sightings and isolated stretches of golden sand, it is no wonder that thousands of people flock to this Northern province of Costa Rica each year.  However, there are some tourist hotspots within this gorgeous province. In the North, you will find Tamarindo; an electrifying party town, fringed by a National Park. Towards the southern tip of the peninsula, you will enter Santa Teresa; a laidback town, aimed at the surfing community.  With these destinations in the minds of many, Samara remains almost forgotten and unheard of. Embodying the very best of the Costa Rican “Pura Vida” lifestyle, Samara provides visitors with the unparalleled beauty of raw nature, coupled with inconspicuous beachside development.  Across the globe, Costa Rica included, beaches have been devastated by developers. Great towering skyrises dominate the landscape, taking away from the natural beauty of local ecosystems. Samara, however, has incorporated nature in the development plans, with most buildings remaining below the tree canopy level. There is a harmonious feel between man and nature.  Read on to discover the very best of Samara, as well as the surrounding areas.  Samara Beach  At the top of the list, Samara Beach takes the crown. This extensive stretch of horseshoe-shaped beach is as good as any tropical postcard. The fringes of the beach are lined with exotic foliage and rising palm trees, offering the perfect respite from the midday heat.  Samara Beach extends for 5km, running parallel to the aquamarine ocean. Fortunately, there is a small rocky reef system just offshore, creating a sheltered bay with calm water; the perfect place for a refreshing swim. Due to the reef formation, a huge abundance of life can be found in the waves here. Tropical marine fish, of all shades of bright colors, dart between the rocks. If you’re lucky, you may even spot an octopus or ray. The laidback vibes to be found here allow for plenty of relaxation, as you take in the stunning landscapes. However, with the arrival of dusk, the entire beach comes alive. The sunsets here are some of the best in Costa Rica, transforming the sky into deep shades of fiery orange, red and purple. Nightlife starts, with many beach performers putting on fire show for the nearby restaurants. The ambiance is electrifying. [caption id="attachment_52232" align="alignnone" width="1200"] Samara Beach, Costa Rica[/caption] Photo credit to https://www.rotasturisticas.com/ Kayak to Isla Chora Just off the shores of Samara Beach, you will be able to spy a protruding rock emerging from the water. Known locally as Isla Chora, you will be surprised at just how many activities can be found here.  By far one of the most popular activities is to kayak to Isla Chora. There are many tour companies across Samara Beach that offer guided tours via kayak to the island. As relaxing as this may sound, it certainly takes a lot of strength, as you battle with the oceanic currents. The exertion, however, is worth it. The island is surrounded by underwater rocky caverns and crevices, that offer a perfect habitat for a wealth of marine life – including sea turtles; an endangered inhabitant of the waters off Samara. Grab a snorkel and start exploring! [caption id="attachment_52233" align="alignnone" width="680"] Kayak to Isla Chora[/caption] Photo credit to https://www.entercostarica.com/ Surfing  Although not as popular as the previously mentioned towns of Tamarindo or Santa Teresa, Samara also offers great surfing opportunities. Similar to renting kayaks, many tour companies along this stretch of coastline offer surf lessons to beginners, as well as active hands-on practice in the water. The calm, sheltered bay ensures that waves rarely become too choppy, allowing for the perfect natural classroom. For avid and more experienced surfers, the outer beaches around the Nicoya Peninsula, such as Guiones and Baragona, are better equipped. There are no offshore reefs here, so waves can get rather high. Proceed with caution. [caption id="attachment_52235" align="alignnone" width="1005"] Tamarindo, Costa Rica: Young afro-american man walking with his surfboard into sea on the beach in Tamarindo, Costa Rica. Tamarindo is located on the Northern Pacific Coast. The main attractions are surfing and eco-tourism.[/caption] Hiking Venture slightly inland, and the jungle community begins to take over. Towering trees with enormous buttress roots dominate, with a multitude of climbing vines growing in all directions. As you meander down back streets and trails, wildlife begins to appear all around: howler monkeys high in the canopy, armadillos on the forest floor, and a multitude of brightly colored birds all around.  The Werner Sauter Biological Reserve can be found nearby, and while this is an incredible adventure to discover local fauna and flora, it does come at a cost. Some of the best hikes around Samara avoid those pesky tourist fees. Unlike private reserves, trails are not clearly signposted and are often completed by trial and error. Some allow you to discover private beaches, other trails lead up steep hills and offer spectacular views of the landscape and never-ending ocean.  [caption id="attachment_52236" align="alignnone" width="818"] Hiking in Samara, Werner Sauter Biological Reserve[/caption] Photo credit to https://www.samaratrails.com/ Weekly Farmers Market Every Saturday in Samara welcomes the weekly farmer’s market. A great way for local producers and growers to showcase the very best of their produce. Artisanal foodstuffs and souvenirs can be found here, as well as locally cooked, home-comfort food.  Tucked off the main strip of Samara, the farmers market is accessible by walking down the quiet back streets. There is a first-come, first-serve policy, so once items are gone, the stall shuts down. To avoid disappointment, early morning is the best time to visit.    Carrillo  Playa Carrillo is a neighboring beach to Playa Samara. Less than 10 minute drive away, you will be rewarded with a beautiful, and often isolated, stretch of coastline. With many tourists staying close to the shops and restaurants of Samara, few people venture to Carrillo.  There are no developments here. Instead, palm trees, and an array of other marine flora, line the beach, creating an air of isolation. When the tide retreats, a series of rockpools of differing depths are exposed. Incredibly, you are able to snorkel within these rockpools and observe the life within.  [caption id="attachment_52238" align="alignnone" width="1005"] Playa Carrillo in Guanacaste, Costa Rica[/caption]  

Air Transat Announces Seat Sale

17th Jan 2022 0

As the market improves, Air Transat has announced a seat sale on flights between the United Kingdom and Canada. Return prices from Gatwick to Toronto and Montreal start at £329, while return fares to Quebec City start at £359, including taxes and fees. The promotion runs until 10th February and includes discounted airfares on routes between the United Kingdom and Canada for travel between March and June this year. In addition to direct flights from Gatwick to Toronto, Montreal, and Quebec City, the airline also operates flights from Manchester and Glasgow to Toronto, with connections to Calgary, Montreal, and Vancouver. If travel plans change, the airline will allow passengers to change the date and destination of their bookings for no charge up to 24 hours before departure, with travellers only being responsible for the fare difference, if any. The airline's entire fleet is Airbus, including the new A321neoLR, which the firm claims has the lowest environmental effect in its class and will help it meet its goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2050.

Israel Reopens to Visitors from UK After Removal of its Red List of Countries

08th Jan 2022 0

After eliminating its red list of countries, Israel is poised to reopen to visitors from the United Kingdom on Sunday (9th January). The Israel Government Tourism Office (IGTO) in London issued the following statement: “Israel has announced the welcome news that it is set to open its skies for the first time in a month by canceling its list of high-infection ‘red’ countries, including the UK, pending Israeli government approval. “Countries that were previously listed on the red list will be moved to Israel’s orange and green lists dependent on their status.” Nachman Ash, the director-general of the Israeli Ministry of Health, recommended that the red list be removed. The list was designed to combat the spread of the Omicron type in Israel, but officials now consider the travel bans obsolete because the country is experiencing a severe outbreak. According to the IGTO, the move will allow Israelis to travel anywhere in the world again without requiring special government permission or requiring them to quarantine for a week upon their return – as long as they are fully vaccinated according to the health ministry's criteria: inoculated twice within the previous six months, vaccinated with a booster, recovered with one shot, or recovered within six months. Foreign travelers from the orange and green countries will be permitted to enter Israel beginning Sunday, 9th January, pending final government permission. In order to board the flight, inbound passengers must have a negative Covid test (either PCR performed less than 72 hours before departure or antigen less than 24 hours prior to departure) and must take a PCR upon arrival in Israel. Those who have been vaccinated will be free to leave quarantine as soon as the results are received, or within 24 hours; those who have not been vaccinated will be confined for a week and will be tested again on the seventh day.  

6

Hiking near Denver, Colorado

04th Jan 2022 0

In the central region of the North American continent, sits the state of Colorado. This is a unique state within the continent, for the Colorado Plateau in the Southern Rocky Mountains meets the Great Plains. Since 2010, the population of Colorado has increased by 15%, perhaps attributed to the incredible natural spectacles and wealth of physical activities on offer.  One of the most popular places in Colorado, for both residents and tourists, is the city of Denver. With a population of just under 1 million inhabitants, Denver has a plethora of activities to entertain; from art galleries to zoological parks. However, the very best has to be what is found naturally occurring in nature. The Rocky Mountains can be found on one side of Denver, offering incredible rock structures and high-altitude forests. On the other side, the flat Plains stretch for miles, undisturbed. Here, large mammals and hunting birds roam free.  To experience the very best of Denver and the surrounding areas, strap on the hiking boots and hit the trails. Enlighten your senses with an array of sights, smells, and sounds in the North American Wilderness.  Read on to discover some of the best places to hike near Denver.  Rocky Mountain Arsenal Reserve Located just a short drive from downtown Denver, the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge (what a mouthful) is a wide, open space covering over 15000 acres of habitats. This reserve is a true conservation success story and has transformed with the transitioning demographics. Once farmland, the reserve soon became a wartime production site. Finally, in the early 1980s, the U.S army began an extensive environmental cleanup. By 1992, it was designated a site of the national wildlife refuge.  Across the large expanse of land, visitors can hike the 20 miles of trails that wind their way through the refuge. Expect to encounter a range of habitats – including, prairie lands, woodland, and freshwater lakes. Incredibly, this urban sanctuary is home to more than 300 species of animals, including some species once on the verge of extinction: American bison and black-footed ferrets. Other wildlife sightings include burrowing owls, a unique raptor species that live in underground burrows, bald eagles, and coyotes.  On top of hiking around the many trails, there is also an 11-mile circular route for vehicles. This allows visitors to cover a large area to take in as many sights.  [caption id="attachment_52034" align="alignnone" width="1005"] View of Rocky Mountain from Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge[/caption] Red Rocks Park Moving away from the prairie lands and into the towering mountains, Red Rocks park is where the Great Plains meets the Rocky Mountains. Along the Eastern slopes of this mountain range can you find the Red Rocks Mountain Park; named after the near 100-meter sandstone rock formations. Within this 640-acre park, many famous red landmarks are dotted around, attracting thousands of visitors from all across the globe, per year. Some are so famous, they have their own names. One of the main attractions to the area is the naturally occurring amphitheater formed into the rock.  The park offers a few hiking trails, with spectacular views. On a cloudless day, one may expect a view expanding for nearly 200 miles, overlooking Denver and the Great Plains. Many of the trails meander through the colossal rocks, which were formed approximately 290 million years ago.  Although there are few strenuous trails to be found here, one should visit this iconic park for the views alone. At just 15 miles West of Denver, this National Park makes for a great family day out. To optimize your visit, explore the Red Rocks homepage to discover local acts and performances playing in the amphitheater.  [caption id="attachment_52035" align="alignnone" width="1005"] Denver, Colorado, USA downtown skyline viewed from Red Rocks at dawn.[/caption] Evergreen  Just 19 miles West of Denver, the charming town of Evergreen sits. Named after the evergreen trees surrounding the community, the town boasts numerous Blue Spruce trees. This quintessential North American town has a population of less than 10000; you can feel nature all around.  Within this Rocky Mountains town, expect to find a wealth of trails extending through different ecosystems. One of the most scenic of these trails is Maxwell Falls. As the name suggests, a series of waterfalls can be found navigating through the rocky landscape. Copious evergreen trees litter the path and nothing but the sound of nature can be heard. In the summer months, bears can be frequently observed in these parts. However, come winter, temperatures have been known to drop to a rather frightening -36°c.  If off the beaten track isn’t really your style, but you still want to experience a taste of the wilderness, discover Jefferson County Open Space. This large expanse of land sits parallel to the main road, Buffalo Park Road, heading in and out of Evergreen. But don’t let that put you off. Away from the road, many trails ranging in length can be found winding their way through the park. Wildlife is in rich supply, with huge gatherings of elk and deer congregating within the open spaces.  [caption id="attachment_52036" align="alignnone" width="1005"] woman hiking in mountain trail in Colorado[/caption] Mount Sanitas  Located at the base of the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Boulder can be found 25 miles Northwest of Denver. Despite being one of the most populous cities in the state of Colorado, the natural beauty of Boulder is staggering. Some of the most iconic scenery in the region is the Flatirons, slanted slabs of sedimentary stone.  Mount Sanitas is a must-do hike in Boulder. Rated difficult, this trail sees an elevation gain of over 1300 meters. The strenuous climb will be sure to get the lungs and legs pumping, as you scale the slopes of this mountain to reach the summit. The views at this altitude, as you can expect, are beyond magical, as you overlook the city of Denver and the extending Plains below.  You can turn this hike into a circular loop, and incorporate a range of different ecosystems. The terrain varies greatly, ranging from open meadows to jagged rockfaces. The rockfaces are in fact world-famous, attracting avid rock climbers from all across the globe. There are many species to be found along the circular loop, including many migratory bird species and mammals. Iconic residents are the Colorado chipmunks.  [caption id="attachment_52037" align="alignnone" width="1005"] Mt. Sanitas Hike Near Boulder[/caption] Photo credit to https://dayhikesneardenver.com/

Tradewind Voyages Announced its Plans for 2022/23 Season

25th Dec 2021 0

Tradewind Voyages, a tall ship cruise service, has announced its plans for the 2022/23 season, which would begin in the Caribbean in November and end in Europe in April 2023. Due to persistent Covid limitations, the line canceled its Caribbean season this winter, following maiden sailings in the UK, and will now sail its first season in the Mediterranean beginning in May 2022. The Grenadines, St Vincent, St Lucia, Guadeloupe, British Virgin Islands, St Kitts, St Barts, and Antigua are among the ports of call for the confirmed Caribbean season, which will run from November to March. Spain, France, Italy, Albania, Montenegro, Croatia, Slovenia, Greece, and Turkey will all be part of the summer 2023 Mediterranean season, which will stretch from April to September. A deposit of £100 and complete payment 30 days before sailing are included in an early booking bonus till 31st January 2022. For all 2022 cruises, except Christmas and New Year sailings, the package also includes a complimentary Horizon Beer & Wine Collection valued up to £410. The cruises will be "centered around a voyage for the senses," with itineraries enabling access to smaller ports and promoting regional cuisine, according to the operator. Alan McGrory, the company's CEO, stated: “We are delighted to be able to present the full 2022/23 voyages for the senses program to our partners. This will allow our past guests that have been eagerly awaiting to book both 2022 and 2023 voyages onboard Golden Horizon to do so. “In addition, we hope it will help our agents and their clients in planning ahead and provide the confidence to continue to make travel plans at this time.”

2

Winter Sun in the Maldives

21st Dec 2021 0

For beaches of almost uniform perfection in a flawless setting of crystal clear ocean, look no further than the Maldives, the ultimate in luxury holiday escape. Close to twelve hundred islands are scattered like exotic petals across the Arabian Sea of the Indian Ocean to the southwest of Sri Lanka. The garland of atolls is home to the very finest accommodation, whiter than white powdered sand beaches, and luminescent turquoise blue open water blessed with dazzling coral reefs and tropically colourful marine life. Each resort in the Maldives is its own private island, barely rising above sea level. These are the crowns of coral reefs and submerged volcanic mountains to which you arrive from the capital Male by either speedboat or seaplane at the start of a unique and unforgettable holiday experience. The Maldives offers some of the best diving and snorkelling opportunities to be found anywhere in the world. The water clarity is a little short of astonishing, enabling dazzling views of school after school of brightly coloured tropical fish, superbly varied coral walls and quite magnificent sea caves. Venture further out to discover turtles, sharks, manta rays, and the world’s largest fish, the whale shark, particularly evidenced through October and November. And with sea temperatures as warm as this a wetsuit is an optional extra. With so much natural beauty to observe, indolence can feel remarkably guilt-free. Influenced by neighbouring India and Sri Lanka, the cuisine of the Maldives features a variety of tantalising flavours. Perhaps unsurprisingly freshly caught fish is a typical feature of many local menus. With so much natural beauty to observe, indolence can feel remarkably guilt-free. Influenced by neighbouring India and Sri Lanka, the cuisine of the Maldives features a variety of tantalising flavours. Perhaps unsurprisingly freshly caught fish is a typical feature of many local menus.   #Maldives #watervillas #bookmaldives #onlusengeli #exclusivetravelholidays #protectedtrustservices #bookholidays #travelagents

6

Tampa - A Drink with a View

18th Dec 2021 0

Rooftop bars became popular in the 1920s and 1930s when hotels like the Powhatan in Washington, DC, and the Waldorf-Astoria in New York City added rooftop gardens that offered dinner, music, dancing, and drinks. Set high above the heat and noise of the city, rooftop bars provided a delightful escape for locals and tourists alike.  Spanning Tampa Bay from downtown to the beach, a number of rooftop bars are a wonderful way to relax and enjoy the view – whether it is of downtown, the beach, or a magnificent sunset. No longer contained to the rooftops of hotels, Tampa Bay options include evening delights at the new St. Pete Pier, Armature Works, or Topgolf.  A rooftop nightcap is wonderful way to wind down while on holiday.    Pier Teaki As one of the newest rooftop additions to Tampa Bay, Pier Teaki is an historic tiki bar with a twist. Pier Teaki’s rooftop location provides sweeping views of Saint Petersburg skyline and Tampa Bay. The menu includes a broad selection of draft and bottled beer, wine, and signature cocktails served in tiki-themed glasses. The Bar Bites go beyond the normal small plate fare and include tuna bowls, empanadas, tacos, burgers, and Beach Pails – Pier Teaki’s fun take on a serving of crisps or chips paired with a pina colada dipping sauce or tostones with a mango dipping sauce.  The rooftop offers bar seating as well as comfortable patio-style furniture. Teaki Huts for groups of 6 to 8 are available for rent and are a perfect way to celebrate a birthday or anniversary.  Pier Teaki is a popular destination on weekends and becomes 21 and up after 8pm.  [caption id="attachment_51831" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Pier Teaki Tampa[/caption] Photo credit to pierteaki.com M.Bird Perched atop Armature Works, M.Bird offers an art deco-inspired lounge complete with water-front views of downtown Tampa. Following a day exploring the Tampa Bay, take time to sit back, sip on tropical-inspired cocktails, and nibble on shareable small plates.  Set above a popular food hall and situated along the Hillsborough River, M.Bird is a 21 and up bar open 7 days a week. Sharable plates range in options from fondue to sliders and nachos to eggrolls. Desserts and craft cocktails round out the menu and provide delicious options for all.  Brunch is served alfresco on Saturdays and Sundays from Noon to 4pm. And make sure to stop by in the late afternoon on the weekend for live music.  Table reservations are available on Friday and Saturday nights at mbirdtampa.com.  [caption id="attachment_51830" align="alignnone" width="1005"] M.Bird Tampa[/caption] Photo credit to mbirdtampa.com Hurricane Watch Roof-Top Deck The Hurricane draws from its historical roots as a casual beach bar on St. Pete Beach. More than 40 years later, the Hurricane has expanded to be a two-story seafood restaurant and rooftop bar. Owned and operated by the Falkenstein family since 1977, they still serve family favorites such as Mom’s 1945 Crab Cake Melt. Open daily for lunch and dinner, they are famous for offering a different menu on each floor of the establishment.  Boasting an unobstructed 360° view of Pass-A-Grille Beach and St. Pete Beach, Hurricane Watch Roof-Top Deck is the perfect setting for watching boats, beachgoers, and nightly sunsets. Nightly live entertainment amid tropical colors, comfortable seating, and hideaway nooks, is a popular laid-back destination.  [caption id="attachment_51829" align="alignnone" width="640"] Hurricane Watch Roof-Top Deck[/caption] Photo credit to www.therooftopguide.com Tropico Rooftop Cantina Located on the roof of the Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort and Spa, the Tropico Rooftop Cantina is an immersive rooftop experience. This tropical oasis serves craft cocktails and Latin-inspired dishes featuring local ingredients.  Quick Bites offer a delightful way to explore all the menu has to offer. With grilled fresh oysters, street corn, mini empanadas, and shrimp ceviche everyone will find a favourite. If you are looking for a full meal, Tropico Rooftop Cantina also serves salads, tacos, sandwiches, and desserts. Happy hour specials are offered daily, along with non-alcoholic libations and local cocktail treats aptly named Golden Tiki Punch and the Prickly Pear Paloma.  Think of it as a holiday from your holiday and spend the afternoon away from the beachgoers and sightseers. Up above the sand and seagulls you can begin with lunch and end with sunset views perfectly paired with the peach-colored hotel, sugar sand beaches, and tropical waters of the Gulf of Mexico.   The Tropico Rooftop Cantina welcomes well-behaved children and offers a Kids’ Menu.  [caption id="attachment_51827" align="alignnone" width="1005"] Tropico Rooftop Cantina[/caption] Photo credit to usarestaurants.info Hi-Fi Rooftop Bar Located on the roof of the Fenway Hotel in Dunedin, the Hi-Fi Rooftop Bar is inspired by the Fenway speakeasy originally located in the building’s basement. Claiming that they bring cocktails to new heights, Hi-Fi makes and serves libations aptly named Southern Sipper, Summer Rhapsody, Tropical Tune, and the Fenway Sunset.  Handhelds (sandwiches and burgers), salads, shareables, and snacks complete the menu offerings. Paired with nightly live jazz and postcard-perfect sunset views, the Hi-Fi Rooftop Bar is a perfect choice for a holiday date night.  The Hi-Fi Rooftop Bar is open nightly and is limited to guests 21 and up.  [caption id="attachment_51826" align="alignnone" width="1005"] Hi-Fi Rooftop Bar[/caption] Photo credit to marrymetampabay.com Topgolf Rooftop Terrace If an afternoon at the driving range is more your speed, the Topgolf Rooftop Terrace provides a way to relax with views of downtown Tampa. The terrace is set with comfortable seating, firepits, and a stage for live entertainment on select nights.  Topgolf blends sport with technology and entertainment. Topgolf offers climate-controlled hitting bays that include HDTVs and golf clubs. Fun for the golf pro and novice alike, Topgolf has microchipped balls that allow for automatic scoring and game options. Beginners can choose an Angry Birds theme or the signature Topgolf game where players score points for hitting any target. Intermediate and advanced options revolve around challenges or the chance to virtually play an iconic course from around the globe.  The Topgolf Rooftop Terrace allows guests to order from the full dining menu while enjoying beer, wine, and spirits. Named after the sport, Golfbags are drinks served to parties of two or more and are served in a take-home souvenir cup.  Reservations for one of the 102 bays at Topgolf in Tampa can be made at topgolf.com.  [caption id="attachment_51825" align="alignnone" width="640"] Topgolf Rooftop Terrace Tampa[/caption] Photo credit to www.therooftopguide.com

Crystal Cruises Returns to Alaska in 2022

12th Dec 2021 0

In summer 2022, Crystal Cruises will return to Alaska after a three-year hiatus with seven to eleven-night trips onboard Crystal Serenity. From 23rd June to 1st August, round-trip and one-way excursions will depart from Anchorage, Alaska, and Vancouver, Canada. Crystal's president, Jack Anderson, stated: “A Crystal Alaska cruise is like no other, offering the only seagoing vacation that combines up-close and personal looks at awe-inspiring scenery and wildlife with the incredible six-star service and an array of onboard amenities that have earned us a reputation as the leader in luxury cruising.” Crystal's Alaska sailings will only take place in 2022, according to Anderson, because the company has no plans to visit the region after next year. Nearly 100 different land experiences are included in the program, as well as aboard lectures from specialists in wildlife, landscapes, and history.

Celebrity Cruises Released a Series of Itineraries for 2023 Sailings

07th Dec 2021 0

From August through October 2023, Celebrity Cruises has released a series of itineraries on the redesigned Celebrity Summit. The 2,218-passenger ship will take passengers on seven to twelve-night cruises. The United States, Canada, Iceland, and Bermuda are among the destinations. Celebrity Summit will offer two 12-night open-jaw itineraries in August, beginning from Cape Liberty, US, and Reykjavik, Iceland, following a cruise to Bermuda. One of the sailings takes place on 6th August 2023, and includes stops at Newfoundland, Canada, Qaqortoq, Greenland, and Akureyri, Iceland. The 11-night Boston, Maine, and Canada trip, which departs on 30th August, has a lead-in fee of £1,491. Halifax, Sydney, and Quebec City, all in Canada, are among the ports of call. Rockland, New York, is a new port of call for Celebrity in the show. For the first time in nearly two decades, the line will visit the Massachusetts island of Martha's Vineyard. The Celebrity Summit was completely refurbished as part of a $500 million fleet renovation that began in 2019.  

6

The forgotten town of Georgetown, Colorado

05th Dec 2021 0

In the age of modern technology and easy accessibility, it is easy to forget our past. With the prevailing of mega infrastructures that cut journey times from days to a mere matter of hours, we often forget entire towns and regions in our haste to get somewhere quicker.  That is exactly the case in Georgetown, Colorado. This small, mountainous town was one of the third biggest towns in the entire state of Colorado. It found its fame back in the mid-1800s and soon acquired the name of “Silver Queen of the Rookies”. This endearing name stems from the fact that precious metal, silver, was found in the area. At a time where much of the United States was crazed with the gold rush, Georgetown hit back hard with its very own silver rush.  [caption id="attachment_51474" align="alignnone" width="1005"] The steam locomotive of Georgetown loop railroad in Colorado, USA. The engine is parked in a depot, looking from another coach.[/caption] Although mining shut down many years ago, the quaint town is rich, not only in history but also with nature. Unfortunately, many people even know of its existence. This is because a huge highway was developed that connects the capital of Colorado, Denver, to the Rocky Mountains, where a large array of audiences can enjoy the many activities the Rookies has to offer. With many people leaving work late on Friday night or early Saturday morning, stopping off at Georgetown seems more of an arduous chore, as opposed to an exciting opportunity.  As cliché as it sounds, there truly is something for everyone here in this historic town – from museums and shops to hikes and mountain biking. Not only was I blown away by the sheer beauty of the raw nature, but I was taken aback by the incredible hospitality of the locals. Each encounter with someone, be it in a coffee shop, out wandering the streets, or in any number of petite shops that line the roads, yielded a welcoming and helpful response. Despite the noticeable lack of tourists and the bustling streets that come with that, Georgetown remains humble, intimate, and full of character.  At nearly 160 years old, the town is full of stories and history. Just taking a walk down 6th street reveals old-style buildings oozing with character. Artisanal businesses now take up shop in the old, wooden shells, bringing new life into the area. One thing seemed to dominate each conversational encounter, however. The urge to get out into nature is somewhat strong here. Nestled between Silver Plume Mountain and Griffith Mountain, there certainly isn’t a limit to what one can do when it comes to outdoor activities.  [caption id="attachment_51475" align="alignnone" width="1005"] United States Post Office, Georgetown, Colorado[/caption] And the wonderful thing? With the turn of each season, a new discovery awaits to be revealed. Spring and summertime yield scorching hot days, where one can cool of in one of the many lakes that can be found in the area. Observe the wildflowers that bloom in the mountainous alpine trails. Autumn, bringing in the start of the cooler weather fronts, transforms the landscape into a vivid canvas of color: deep orange, yellow, red leaves fill the scene. Perhaps, and with a bit of luck, a cold spell may bring in the start of the snow. This is an especially exciting time, as you can bargain for yourself a discounted, off-season ski pass ticket.  I was fortunate enough to visit at a time that allowed me to have the entirety of the town to myself. Here in Colorado, the few weeks at the end of October and beginning of November is known as “mud season”. Not quite summer and not quite a winter, mud season brings in very little tourism. But did this bother me? Absolutely not. In fact, I relished the thought of not being swamped by a mass flock of tourists.  There is a creek that flows through the town and into the nearby lake of Georgetown Lake. I follow upstream, letting the natural flow of the river guide me. With steep uphill gradients, it isn’t long before I lose sight of the town itself and soon become immersed within nature. Mighty pines tower all around. Chipmunks and squirrels dart between the canopy branches, perhaps stocking up on their winter hibernation food stores. Between the pines, aspen trees shoot from the mountainous terrain. A single, living organism, aspen sends up extending shoots from one main underground branch that connects all other aspen trees. This is a natural marvel, for, in the autumn months, each and every aspen tree will turn the same shade of color and then drop its leaves. It really is quite a spectacle that can be found in North America.  [caption id="attachment_51473" align="alignnone" width="1005"] Georgetown Colorado residential area, homes, and yards. Georgetown Lake with a few people fishing. The background mountain has yellow aspens in spots.[/caption] Georgetown is a place where you can connect with nature. You can feel lost within the great, towering pine forests that cover much of the surrounding mountains. Bighorn sheep can be found hugging the precarious slopes of exposed rock. The higher you ascend and deeper you trek into the coniferous forests, you can reach bear and mountain lion territory. Though the chance of stumbling upon such creatures are rare, the possibility certainly is there.  In fact, talking to a shop owner revealed that just the other week, a mountain lion was spotted in the main town, hunting a herd of bighorn sheep. There are few places in the world that can boast such a statement. These ferocious felines are incredibly rare and elusive, avoiding the presence of humans as much as possible. I force the idea of a lion encounter out of my head and focus on the present. Woodpeckers frantically drill on the side of trees in search of bugs. The rush of the mountain creek, with waters as clear as crystal, fills my ears.  It’s clear to me that Georgetown has been long forgotten by those with such urgency to leave the city sprawl, and escape to the well-established mountainous slopes. Enticed by fancy buildings and new technology, people fail to notice the very places that are brimming with life, character, charm, and, above all, untamed nature. All around, picturesque mountains and tranquil valleys can be found. It comes as no surprise to me that the people of Georgetown are happy and content with life here, and rightly so.   

Gatwick Express Airport Train Link from Central London to Reopen before Christmas

01st Dec 2021 0

After a 21-month hiatus because to the pandemic, the Gatwick Express airport train link from central London will reopen before Christmas. The resumption on weekdays on December 13 is intended to "assist Gatwick Airport's and the south-east economy's revival." As the epidemic spread, passenger numbers at the airport plummeted, the service was discontinued on 30th March 2020. Passengers are returning in larger numbers to the airport, however, Gatwick Express will be impacted by engineering work and will not run between Christmas Day and 3rd January. From 4th January, Gatwick Express trains will operate on a winter schedule, with two non-stop services operating seven days a week between London Victoria station and the airport, with connections to Brighton. According to the train operator, this was the initial plan for services after May 2020, which was adopted to assist the redevelopment of Gatwick's station, which means fewer platforms are accessible. Angie Doll, temporary chief operating officer of Govia Thameslink Railway, said: “We’re pleased to reinstate our seven-day-a-week non-stop Gatwick Express service. “Gatwick airport plays a vital part in driving economic growth in the south-east and we’re proud to support its recovery.”

SeaDream Yacht Club Resumed Winter Sailing in the Caribbean

24th Nov 2021 0

After being forced to cancel last season due to the pandemic, SeaDream Yacht Club has resumed winter sailing in the Caribbean. SeaDream I and II, sister ships, will depart from San Juan, Puerto Rico, and Bridgetown, Barbados, respectively. The 112-passenger ships are set to sail to St Barts, Jost Van Dyke, Dominican Republic, the Grenadines, and St Lucia on 41 cruises. Since resuming sailings in July, the SeaDream ships  have  completed more than 30 voyages covering Bulgaria, Croatia, France, Greece, Italy, Montenegro, Norway, Romania, Slovenia, Spain, Turkey and Ukraine. Most Caribbean itineraries are seven days in duration, calling at lesser-visited harbors.

7

Weekend Getaways and Day Trips from Jaipur, India

23rd Nov 2021 0

Jaipur is a must-visit destination in North India. Along with Delhi and Agra, it is one of the cities that forms the popular tourist route known as the Golden Triangle.  Travelers who spend an extended period of their holiday in Jaipur find it a bustling modern city interspersed with historical and architectural marvels. Among the unmissable attractions in Jaipur, also known as the Pink City, are the Hawa Mahal – known as the “palace of winds” for having 953 small windows, Amber Fort, the City Palace, and Jantar Mantar – a UNESCO World Heritage Site consisting of 19 colossal astronomical instruments. While it’s easy to spend days traversing around Jaipur’s museums, forts, and bazaars, the city also acts as a central point for day trips and weekend getaways. Tourists wishing to explore more of the neighboring region will find a wildlife sanctuary, haunted fort, and awe-inspiring architectural wonders within a few hours’ drive from Jaipur. Moreover, day trips from Jaipur don’t need much planning. Nevertheless, the trick is to leave early in the morning to avoid traffic and maximize your time. For weekend getaways from Jaipur to Sariska and Neemrana, an overnight stay is enough. It does, however, require some pre-planning, especially booking a hotel in advance.      Abhaneri Abhaberi is a small Rajasthani hamlet, 92km away from the Pink City. A popular day trip from Jaipur, the village is home to Chand Baori, arguably the most well-known stepwell in the country. Built by King Chanda, Chand Baori is an architectural phenomenon dating back to 800-900 CE, making it one of India’s oldest stepwells.  A stepwell is an ancient water reservoir used by kings, queens, nobles, and the common folk as a daily escape from the scorching heat of the summer months. A place for the locals to congregate, the temperature at the bottom of stepwells was typically 5 to 6 degrees cooler.     Unfortunately, it is not possible to walk the steps of Chand Baori anymore. Still, you can view this spectacular construction with 3500 steps going down 100 feet from the top. Also on display are age-old sculptures excavated in the surrounding areas, laid out in hallways around the complex.  Chand Baori is open to the public from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. While photography is free, you need to pay a nominal charge to make videos inside. Chand Baori is also a popular Bollywood film location. [caption id="attachment_51105" align="alignnone" width="1005"] Chand Baori, the most famous stairwell in India[/caption] Bhangarh Fort  Start your day pre-dawn, and it is possible to cover both Abhaneri and Bhangarh Fort within a single day trip from Jaipur. Situated an hour apart from each other, both these locations are iconic in their own right.  While Chand Baori impresses with its architecture, Bhangarh makes a lasting impression with its eeriness. After all, the 16th-century Bhangarh Fort is the most haunted location in all of India.  Constructed by Madho Singh, the fort was home to 10,000 residents in its heyday. However, everyone suddenly left this bustling township with houses, shops, and temples, overnight for reasons unknown.  Several stories add to the myth of Bhangarh. One of the more famous ones involves a curse by a dying necromancer who was not allowed to marry the kingdom’s princess, Ratnavati. Now, locals claim to hear strange voices and see lights moving around the fort at night.   About 84km from Jaipur, Bhangarh Fort is open from 10 AM to 5 PM. Foreign visitors need a special permit to enter the premises. Under no circumstances can anyone stay in Bhangarh Fort post sundown. [caption id="attachment_51107" align="alignnone" width="1005"] Old Bhangarh Fort in India under blue sky[/caption] Sariska Located in Alwar District, Sariska National Park is 105km from Jaipur. It is possible to visit this tiger reserve on a day trip. However, a weekend getaway from Jaipur makes more sense, as it allows you to appreciate the region’s natural wonders at leisure.  Boasting a varied topography of rocky outcrops, cliffs, forest areas, and arid land, Sariska is an excellent place to visit for wildlife enthusiasts. Within its area of 881 square km, travelers come across various animals, from nilgai, leopards, and chital to hyenas, sambhar, and languor.  Although there are only about 18 tigers in Sariska, sightings are more common here due to the park’s relatively small size. The national park is also a birders paradise. You’ll get to see Indian peafowl, white-throated kingfisher, quail, eagles, woodpeckers, and Indian eager-owl here, among other birds.  Sariska National Parks stays open from October to May, from 6:00 AM to 6:30 PM every day. However, booking a safari in advance and following a designated route inside the park is compulsory. [caption id="attachment_51108" align="alignnone" width="1005"] Kankwadi or Kankwari fort façade long shot, Sariska Tiger Reserve, Alwar, Rajasthan, India. Mughal emperor Aurangzeb imprisoned his brother Dara Shikoh in the 17th century.[/caption] Kishangarh Kishangarh is definitely an unusual choice for a day trip from Jaipur, but it is an absolute must for Instagram fanatics. About 100km from the city, it takes just under two hours to reach here. Although similar to the many other small towns in the region, Kishangarh is particularly popular for three reasons.  Firstly, it is the birthplace of the 18th-century painter Nihal Chand, credited for starting the trend of intricately drawn Rajasthani miniatures. Then, Kishangarh is well-known for having the largest marble market in the world.  However, the city’s main attraction is the Marble Dumping Yard, which has become somewhat of a go-to place for all types of photographers. A large hill where trucks pour in waste marble slurry to solidify, it now has a white, snow-like appearance, with a dramatic backdrop of the Aravali mountain range.  Consequently, the place has become an unusual tourist destination, where people from all walks of life come for a picnic or to take pre-wedding photographs. Entry into the dumping yard is free, but you need to drive carefully. Furthermore, with plenty of dust particles in the air, staying here is best for only a short period.    [caption id="attachment_51109" align="alignnone" width="1005"] Kishangarh Marble Market[/caption] Neemrana Roughly midway between Delhi and Jaipur is where you’ll find Neemrana. It offers the perfect combination of a long drive (about 150km one way), adventure, legacy, and good food.  Although the town has recently transformed into an industrial hub, Neemrana Fort Palace still attracts people from all across India. A beautiful heritage property, the fort is one of the most idyllic weekend getaways from Jaipur for couples and families. Located on a hill, surrounded by the Aravalli, the 550-year-old Neemrana Fort highlights the grandeur of the Rajputana lifestyle. An extensive construction with 14 levels, the fort invites visitors to explore the splendors of its ancient history. While a luxury resort with 76 rooms, a spa, zip-lining, and two pools, day visitors can roam around certain sections of the fort and have lunch at their restaurant. A hidden gem in the town, though, is the Neemrana Deep Baori. This beautiful, but deserted stepwell, is a few minutes' drive from the fort. A place for travelers to rest at one point, the seven-floor deep stepwell showcases the brilliance of Rajasthani architecture. Since Neemrana Baori is in a secluded area and is sadly not well-maintained, it’s best to visit the stepwell in a group and only during the daytime.  [caption id="attachment_51110" align="alignnone" width="1005"] The Neemrana Fort Palace Hotel comprises a fully restored medieval palace in India, Rajasthan.[/caption]  

Emirates Installing Premium Economy on 777s & A380s

18th Nov 2021 0

Emirates unveiled its much-anticipated new premium economy cabin at the start of 2021. This was first seen on newly delivered Airbus A380s, despite there being only six more A380s on order at the time. Following that, there were no definite plans to install premium economy on future planes until the airline received Boeing 777-9s, which are expected to arrive in 2024 at the earliest. That strategy has now been abandoned. Emirates will upgrade 105 aircraft, including 53 Boeing 777s and 52 Airbus A380s, with premium economy cabins. The reconfiguration of these planes will take roughly 18 months, but it will not begin until the end of 2022. Emirates will have 111 planes with the premium economy after the project is completed. Emirates 777s will have 24 premium economy seats in a 2-4-2 arrangement behind business class, with five rows of economy eliminated to make this possible. In a 2-4-2 arrangement, Emirates A380s will have 56 premium economy seats at the very front of the lower deck, which will also replace economy seats. Emirates' premium economy seats have a 40-inch pitch, 19.5-inch width, and 8-inch recline. A footrest and a 13.3-inch personal seatback television are also included in each seat. By the end of December 2021, Emirates' first six Airbus A380s with the premium economy will be flying to Frankfurt, London, New York, and Paris.

France New Travel Rules for Traveler Over 65

10th Nov 2021 0

From next month, over-65s in France will be able to travel, eat in restaurants, and visit museums only if they have received a Covid booster shot. According to the BBC, new laws will take effect on 15th December. President Macron stated that from that date forward, proof of a booster vaccination would be required to renew the validity of a health card. In July, the health pass became mandatory in France. Most museums and cinemas, as well as train and aircraft travel, need it as proof of immunization, a negative test, or a recent recovery from Covid. France will make booster vaccines available to adults aged 50 to 64 starting next month, citing the fact that more than 80% of Covid patients now being treated in intensive care units are over 50.

6

A deeper look into one of the best hotels in Costa Rica

05th Nov 2021 0

Luxury travel is all the rage right now. Whether this is for a spa getaway, a culinary delight, or simply an escape from everyday life.  In the past, Costa Rica certainly wasn’t at the top of the list for luxury travel. Instead, the secluded beaches and dense jungles appealed to the younger, backpacker audience. Fast forward to today, and the very same attributes are being advertised to sell Costa Rica as the next, up-and-coming luxury travel destination.  During my time, I have had the pleasure of experiencing some of the very best hotels in Costa Rica. Journeying throughout the country, I have discovered the meaning of luxury in this Pura Vida nation. With each new stay; from every bite, I eat to the bed I sleep in, I discover something different. Something that sets a hotel apart from its competitors.  Well, journeying to the Central Valley of Costa Rica, I certainly found just that. I wasn’t blown away by the sheer glamour or luxury that other hotels use to wow guests. Instead, I was captivated by the unimaginable uniqueness of a hotel. Welcome to La Paz Waterfalls and Gardens.  [caption id="attachment_50705" align="alignnone" width="1197"] Monarch Villa, La Paz Waterfall Gardens[/caption] Just a short drive from San Jose International Airport, La Paz is in a prime location to start your Costa Rican journey. In fact, it is found on the very slopes of one of the countries must-see attractions: Poas Volcano. Unless you have a burning desire to explore the capital of San Jose, I would fully recommend staying at La Paz on either your first or last night in Costa Rica. This boutique hotel is set amid the spectacular scenery of the impressive Poas Volcano. Verdant rainforests stretch for as far as the eye can see and a thin layer of mist can often be seen hugging the canopy. At nearly 1600 meters, the air has a refreshingly cool feel to it; a huge contrast to the general ideology of tropical Costa Rica, with its beating sun and golden sand beaches.  Quite honestly, it’s a welcoming relief. It is an escape from the sticky humidity I’ve grown so accustomed to. Trails lead from the hotel and into the gloom of the forest. Instantly, nature consumes you, with sounds reverberating all around; the background hum of innumerable cicadas, intermittently interrupted by a low croaking of a frog or chirp from an unseen bird. It’s easy to lose yourself to the orchestral symphonies of nature.  [caption id="attachment_50700" align="alignnone" width="1005"] In the rainforest, a view upstream of one of the thundering waterfalls at the La Paz Waterfall Gardens in Costa Rica.[/caption] The trails meander for over 2 miles through the rainforest, past viewing platforms overlooking the torrents of water cascading down the many waterfalls. The entirety of La Paz is at one with nature, from the rooms to the trails themselves. Not a single tree was felled, or the vine system was destroyed in designing the layout of the hikes. The waterfalls themselves are beyond spectacular. Some of the platforms let you get within inches of the raging torrents, creating a sensory overload; the freshwater spray on your face, the deafening roar as each waterfall collides with surrounding vegetation and pools below, or the smell of the numerous exotic trees and flowers.  But this is the rainforest, so expect to get damp at the very least. With sudden downpours of rain, coupled with the misty spray of the waterfalls, bodies can soon become sodden. But fear not, for back in the hotel room, the outdoor jungle is brought to you, with no chance of rain. Awaken your senses in the comforts of five-star accommodation.  You won’t find state-of-the-art technology here, instead, the room accommodates the nature surrounding the region, in a cozy and comforting way. With a river stone fireplace, four-post bed made from locally sourced wood, and hot-tub jacuzzies, you can revive your wet bones. In some rooms, however, the elegance is taken up a notch. As you enter the spacious bathroom, you are greeted with what can only be described as a controlled jungle. Growing on every available substrate, air plants, bromeliads, vines, and other native rainforest species, cling to the walls of the bathroom, creating a community of alive wonders.  At the turn of a knob, transform the wall into a cascading downpour of water that tantalizes your senses. It truly is a remarkable and unique feature of the hotel. You can bask in the hot tub, a glass of wine in hand, and lose yourself to the forest soundscape, without the worry of pesky rainforest critters or changing weather conditions. I personally have never seen anything quite like it and it was a pleasure to experience such a magical room. I didn’t think it was possible, to bring the qualities of the local cloud forest inside, yet the thriving ecosystem of plants and gushing falls, begs to differ.  [caption id="attachment_50704" align="alignnone" width="1195"] La Paz Waterfall Gardens, Costa Rica[/caption] After soaking up the ambiance of the indoor jungle, you can indulge in a variety of dining options; from fine dining to freshly fried fish. The restaurants pride themselves on fresh and local produce, so much so, that the trout lake is just a short walk away. You can even venture there yourself to see where your food is coming from. There is a range of delicious options available, with both local flavors of Costa Rica, with an international twist.  If you think that is all, how mistaken you are. On this 70-acre property, a wildlife rescue center can be found, showcasing some of the most iconic Central American species. Most of these animals have been rescued from the illegal exotic pet trade and seized by the government-affiliated organization, Minaet. Gaze in wonder at the natural spectacles, from a beautiful butterfly, harden open aviary and beautiful felines. After exploring the sanctuary, and the wealth of wildlife it contains, why not try a buffet-style lunch, just a stones-throw away from the hummingbird gardens.  Truly, I have nothing bad to say about this hotel. It is clear to see why La Paz has ranked number one among the leading tourism sites. The combination of environmentally conscious designs, unique luxury, and prime locations, equates to one magical experience. 

Vietnam Plans to Allow Tourists in Late November

03rd Nov 2021 0

Vietnam is planning to begin allowing tourists in late November. Vietnam has been closed for nearly two years and has only just begun to talk about a "sandbox" project as a trial on the island of Phu Quoc, which was supposed to take place in October. Although the plans appear to be more established currently. You must be fully vaccinated, undergo a PCR-RT or LAMP test 72 hours prior to travel, a second test at the point of entry, and the third test on day seven after arrival in Vietnam. Tourists must also download a tracking app and purchase insurance with a minimum coverage of $50,000, which includes Covid-19 coverage. If that isn't awful enough, you are not permitted to travel freely in the country for the duration of your stay. All packages must be purchased from a local agency, and if you want to travel somewhere after the first week, you will need to purchase another tour package. They also aim to open other popular destinations including Ha Long Bay and Hoi An to foreign visitors in November, but no firm plans have been announced.

British Airways Soon to Move in Heathrow Terminal 3

01st Nov 2021 0

British Airways has confirmed that services from Heathrow Terminal 3 will return on 9th November, just over two weeks from now. Qatar is still located in Terminal 5, which will take up space, while Terminal 4 is reserved for red lost arrivals. Unfortunately, Terminal 3 is no longer the ideal location for a lounge crawl. Qantas and Cathay Pacific's nicest lounges are still closed. The Galleries Club Lounge of British Airways is now open. If you have an Amex Platinum card, you can also visit the spanking new Centurion lounge.

EU to Accept the NHS Covid Pass as Digital Certificate

28th Oct 2021 0

From tomorrow (29th November), the European Union will accept the NHS Covid pass as an equal to the Digital Covid Certificate. Both the UK and Armenia's certification processes were updated today, according to the European Commission. The accession of the United Kingdom and Armenia brings the total number of countries "linked to the EU system" to 45 across four continents. Didier Reynders, the EU's justice commissioner, stated that the union was "open to other countries joining our system." Although the EU Digital Covid Certificate is not required for entry into Europe, it does provide a platform for travelers to certify their vaccination, recuperation, or test status. According to Reynders in a recent interview with French media, third-country vaccine passports can be accepted in the EU, but "ideally on the basis of reciprocity."

10

How to Take Better Family Vacation Photos

26th Oct 2021 0

It’s only natural to want to preserve those memories forever- a simple snapshot will do just the trick. Sometimes though, capturing those moments can feel anything but simple.   Let’s face it, most of us are not professional photographers or even budding amateurs,  but that doesn’t mean we should be making sacrifices. You’re going to want an album full of memories to look back on. Thankfully, we have some quick and easy tips for getting better family vacation photos without all the fuss.     Bring a Travel-Size Tripod  As much as we hate to admit it, most of us don’t trust strangers enough to ask them to take a photo of us- if we’re not already too embarrassed. So instead, we try a self-timer,  but end up realizing that there are no good surfaces to rest our camera on. If you do get a shot, it might be taken crooked, on an awkward, upward-facing angle, or cutting out important family members. Then finally, we resort to having someone sit out and take the photo. “They’ll be in the next one”. If there’s a shutterbug in the family, they usually end up being absent from every single photo. If not, there is a never-ending rotation of missing persons in family portraits. Prevent this from happening and make sure everyone is in the frame by bringing along a travel-size tripod. You can get these fairly inexpensively these days, and most of them are small and light enough to tuck neatly into a carry-on or purse. You can even invest in a little remote that controls the shutter so that you don’t need to fiddle with the self-timer.   [caption id="attachment_50390" align="alignnone" width="1007"] Photographer holding a camera to shoot nature sunrise at mountain scenery. Tourists take pictures of sunset nature with the camera on a tripod with copy space.[/caption]   Take Photos of Moments, Not Just Things  The true value of a vacation photo is its ability to transport you back to a moment in time. So, by all means, take photos of the architecture and your dinner plate, and the flora and fauna. But it’s the people you’re with that you will want to remember most; the things you did together. Make sure you’re taking photos of your tribe as they embark on adventures. Years from now you reminisce far more fondly over the grainy midnight photo of beers over a bonfire than you will a random statue that you can’t recall the origin of. Moreover, allow those moments to remain candid. If you’re in the middle of a  memory you want to remember, don’t interrupt the moment by asking for a freeze-frame. This will take everyone back out of the moment. Instead, allow the moment to be and take your photographs as an observer. Your kids rolling around and cackling in the sand, your partner staring off into the distance, mouthfuls of the most delicious ravioli you’ve ever tasted…These are the photos that will invoke emotion when looking back,  which is the true test of a “good” photograph.   [caption id="attachment_50394" align="alignnone" width="1007"] Just married couple in Paris, France. Beautiful young bride and groom near the Eiffel tower. Romantic wedding in Paris concept[/caption]   Hire a Photographer   This certainly isn’t an option for every family on every vacation, and it won’t be able to replace all of those “in the moment” photos we mentioned unless you literally have someone follow you around from sunrise to sunset as you traipse around cobblestone streets and eat your way through a massive pizza. That being said, if you’re looking for a few, really good photos on the beach to frame on your living room wall, hiring a travel photographer is a great idea. You can do this by researching and reaching out to photographers who simply work and live in the area you’re travelling to, or you can hire from a destination photographer company such as Flytographer.   [caption id="attachment_50393" align="alignnone" width="1007"] Wedding photographer takes pictures of bride and groom in nature. wedding couple on a photoshoot. photographer in action[/caption]   Take More, Not Less  We’re not telling you to spend your entire vacation behind the lens- then you would never truly experience anything for yourself. But when you are taking a photo, take three, five, or even ten instead. Any good photographer will tell you that you should take  LOTS of photos, not just one. This is because a single shot has really high stakes for everything to go perfectly according to plan. Taking a bunch at a time though, you maximize your chances of getting a shot where there isn’t at least one person with their eyes closed or not looking at the camera. It also captures movement and variation sometimes the accidental in-between photos will end up being your favourites. Sure,  this will mean a little more work sorting through your shots when you return home, but you’re far more likely to find photos that you love.   [caption id="attachment_50392" align="alignnone" width="1007"] Triple vertical full body length images of the same serious girl, the lady in jeans shorts and top, standing straight, profile side, rear back views. Isolated over a bright vivid turquoise teal background[/caption]   Bring a Real Camera  Especially if you’re already going to be lugging around many suitcases, bags, and belongings for the whole crew, it can be tempting to say “I’ll just take pictures on my phone” rather than toting around a heavy DSLR. Ultimately, it comes down to the type of photos you’re expecting to come back home with. If you want to compete with travel bloggers and Pinterest, don’t skip the DSLR. But even if you’re just looking for some quality photos to make the wallpaper of your laptop or print off to build an album, do yourself a flavour and bring some sort of physical camera. Camera photos are getting better and better these days, but having a physical camera to hold on to will make getting certain shots easier- even having an inexpensive digital that you don’t mind passing off to help strangers and the kids will make a huge difference. Don’t even want to go that far? Why not go old-school and bring along a few disposable film cameras? These will give you those warm, nostalgia-inducing photos you cherish from your own childhood, they won’t cost an arm and a leg, and they are a fun activity for the whole family, which leads us to our next point…   [caption id="attachment_50389" align="alignnone" width="1007"] Woman holding DSLR camera photographing natural lake inside the cave. Colourful reflection, turquoise transparent water, summer adventures. Tourist destination, Kei Islands, Moluccas, Indonesia.[/caption]   Give the Kids a Camera   Whether this takes the form of letting them take a supervised turn with the family camera or giving them each a disposable, teaching your kids how to shoot and letting them take vacation photos of their own is a great idea. You’ll be surprised by how good a lot of them turn out, taken from a whole new perspective. Sometimes it’s fun to see the world through our little ones’ eyes and years later you’ll feel warmth when you see the photos your kids took of you, the random stray dog they fell in love with or close-ups of a seashell they found on the beach and stuffed in their pockets.   [caption id="attachment_50388" align="alignnone" width="1007"] Teenage girl sitting on the sofa at home with her dog and taking pictures with a smartphone[/caption]   Go Waterproof   You can buy a cheap, underwater disposable camera for a handful of changes these days. Especially if you are headed to a lake, ocean, or pool, we can’t think of anything that screams “summer vacation” more than photos of your splashing around and playing in the water. Snaps of silly goggle-clad faces underwater might just end up being your favourite photos from your holiday, and for such a small investment, it’s certainly worth a  try. Plus, having a waterproof alternative to your real electronics can be a real-life saver.  This way you can leave the expensive camera in your hotel safe and enjoy the day without fretting about sand, salt, and H2O running your equipment.   [caption id="attachment_50387" align="alignnone" width="1007"] Crazy swimming with an inflatable doughnut makes selfies on the beach on summer sunny days.[/caption]   Don’t Let Embarrassment Stop You  Too often we allow what other people think of us to dictate our actions. We know what it is like to come home from a vacation and wish we hadn’t been too nervous to take a  photo at the top of the mountain we’d just climbed- too busy worrying about the crowd of onlookers to celebrate. Don’t let fear stop you from documenting your vacation. Years from now, you won’t remember thinking that there was someone else in the restaurant,  but you will remember what a lovely meal you ate with your loved ones.   [caption id="attachment_50386" align="alignnone" width="1007"] Photographer Landscape Nature Outdoor Hat. during mist sunrise, relax and freedom day. Lifestyle Concept.[/caption]   Do Something New  Honestly, getting kids to pose for a picture is hard- especially when there is more than one of them. There is always going to be someone who doesn’t want to, who ends up crying, or who doesn’t really understand the instructions. Surely, you can bribe your children for a single photo or two- but do you really want your vacation photos to be a  collection of little ducks in a row looking as though they’d rather be somewhere else.  Making taking family portraits engaging and fun by spicing it up a bit. You can toss them in the air and capture the giggle, scream “Let all jump on three” and immortalize the chaos or do a couple of “silly-ones”. You want to see your kids’ personalities shine through and chances are after they get in the spirit, they will start making suggestions of their own. Changing things up a bit will lead to higher levels of cooperation and a better final result- we’d call that a win-win.   [caption id="attachment_50385" align="alignnone" width="1925"] Silhouette Happy family people group celebrate jump for the good life on weekend concept for win victory,  wellness, Great insurance team support retreat together in summer.[/caption]   Learn Some New Photography Skills  At the end of the day, if taking better vacation photos is really important to you, it wouldn’t be the worst idea to brush up on your photography skills. You could sign up for a traditional photography class but in a world where you can access nearly anything at the touch of your fingertips, you could also spend a little bit of time watching online tutorials or even reading tip-oriented posts like this one for some quick pointers.  Learning to edit, make better use of lighting, shoot in manual and create visual interest will all make a world of difference.  [caption id="attachment_50384" align="alignnone" width="1007"] Family vacation holiday, Happy family running on the beach in the sunset. Back view of a happy family on a tropical beach and a car on the side.[/caption]

Virgin Atlantic to Restart More Transatlantic Flights

22nd Oct 2021 0

Virgin Atlantic will restart transatlantic flights from Heathrow to Orlando and Las Vegas on 8th November. Flights from Manchester to Orlando and New York will restart on the same day, owing to a "surge" in consumer demand, according to the airline. It comes after the White House said last week that the United States will reopen to fully-vaccinated international travelers on the same date. Heathrow and Manchester will each have daily flights to Orlando. The route is now the most booked throughout Virgin Atlantic's global portfolio, indicating "a pent-up desire for families and adrenaline seekers to enjoy the charm of Florida's premier destination," according to the carrier. From 8th to 14th November, Virgin will use its newest and largest aircraft, the Airbus A350-100, on its Heathrow-Orlando service. A Boeing 787-900 will fly from Heathrow to Las Vegas on a daily basis. An Airbus A330 will resume daily service from Manchester to New York. The airline's chief commercial officer, Juha Jarvinen, said: “Our customers are ready to begin their US adventures, whether it’s to enjoy the magic of Orlando or to party the night away in Las Vegas, therefore it’s only right that we offer them the opportunity to fly as soon as we can. “I’m delighted that our Orlando and Las Vegas services will begin on November 8, the same day transatlantic travel reopens. “We can’t wait to transport customers to our favourite destinations in the US safely once more.” For new bookings, Virgin Atlantic offers unlimited date and flight adjustments at no additional cost. Passengers have until 30th April 2023 to reschedule.

6

Most Enjoyable Cultural Experiences in the Maldives

18th Oct 2021 0

The Maldives is a destination of dreams. Tourists from all over come here to relish the island nation’s unmatched beauty, both above the ground and below the water.  Situated in the middle of the ocean, The Maldives is also renowned for its private resorts. The country’s “one island, one resort” formula works brilliantly. It creates secluded retreats where couples and families can escape from the hustle of everyday lives. Adding charm and convenience to a holiday in the Maldives is the seamlessness with which their tourism industry works. Travelers can book everything from their accommodation and seaplane or boat transfer to excursions through their resort. As a result, it’s possible to have a completely cashless vacation in the Maldives.  However, one mistake many travelers make in the Maldives is restricting themselves to the resorts. The inhabited islands of the archipelago are equally fascinating destinations. More importantly, they are an excellent budget-friendly stay option, having several locally-owned guesthouses. Furthermore, public islands allow visitors to immerse themselves in local traditions that highlight the history, culture, customs, and lifestyle of the Maldivian people.    So, whether you are staying on a private resort or visiting an inhabited island briefly, here are five of the most enjoyable cultural experiences in the Maldives everyone should have.         Eat and Drink at a Local Teashop The local teashops on inhabited islands are home-based eateries with a modest yet welcoming character. While simple in their design, they are the best places to savor classic Maldivian cuisine. Known locally as sai hotaa, you’ll find these often small and unassuming teashops near island harbors, in the streets of Malé, and near public beaches. On the menu here, besides tea and coffee, which the locals drink copiously, are hedhikaa.  Hedhikaa is Maldivian short eats, usually fried, that go rather well with a hot drink. The teashops typically have display cases filled with freshly made hedhikaa, enticing people to stop and eat.  Both savory and sweet, three of the must-have hedhikaa are gajiya – smoked tuna samosas, gulha – tuna and coconut balls, and kavaabu – rice cakes with fish and coconut.   For a genuine cultural experience in the Maldives, visit a sai hotaa either early morning or later in the evening. Mornings are when you’ll catch fishermen having their breakfast before heading out into the sea. Evenings are more relaxed as residents visit teashops to mingle and talk about sports, politics, and everything else under the sun.  [caption id="attachment_50134" align="alignnone" width="1007"] Maldives Tea in a stainless steel teapot on a tropical beach.[/caption]   Take a Public Ferry One of the best and leisurely places to interact with locals in the Maldives is a public ferry. While you can take the boat from Malé Airport to the city, it doesn’t provide the same cultural experience as a ferry to a nearby island.  On a public ferry, you’ll find people from all walks of life. Some use the ferry to carry heavy goods. Others prefer it because ferries are the cheapest mode of transport in the Maldives.  It’s important to remember that ferries are much slower than speedboats, and delays due to weather conditions are normal. Moreover, public boats do not sail on Fridays, and it is not possible to pre-book a seat on a ferry. Still, ferries are a laidback travel option that comes with the opportunity to occasionally witness marine life such as dolphins, rays, and sharks without having to pay anything extra.   [caption id="attachment_50133" align="alignnone" width="1007"] Male, Maldives: Inside view of the public ferry boat that connects the Male with neighboring islands during a regular trip with passengers traveling inside it in Male, Maldives.[/caption]   Dance the Bodu Beru Bodu Beru is a much-loved and practised music and dance performance across the islands. While reserved for special occasions on public islands, many resorts have bodu beru recitals as part of their cultural enlightenment program for resident guests.  Dating back to the 11th-century, many believe that bodu beru takes inspiration from African drum music. In the Maldives, several musicians and dancers dressed in a white shirt and a feyli – black and white sarong, participate in Bodu Beru celebrations. On the resorts, the performers usually encourage guests to join in on the festivities. An engaging cultural experience in the Maldives, bodu beru is as much about appreciating dance and music as it is about acknowledging the country’s heritage. At the core of Bodu Beru are folktale recitals and songs that speak of heroism, which give insight into the age-old beliefs and customs of the islands.    [caption id="attachment_50131" align="alignnone" width="1007"] Madoogali island, Maldives: Island staff perform a Bodu Beru local culture dance and music on the beach of the island.[/caption]   Go Fishing Besides tourism, fishing is the biggest revenue generator in the Maldives. Heavily invested in the fishing export industry, locals also fish for everyday food consumption.  Tourists visiting the island nation can partake in several different forms of fishing. Most resorts and guesthouses can arrange big game fishing expeditions in the open waters of the Indian Ocean.  A popular option on inhabited islands for beginners is night fishing. The two-hour excursion includes heading out to a fishing spot near the island. Once there, you can participate in line and bait fishing, which requires a little bit of patience, but no other skill set. The best part of the trip is the barbeque at the end, where the crew cooks whatever you’ve caught.  For a more authentic cultural experience in the Maldives, try and go fishing with a local fisherman. Your guesthouse can possibly arrange a trip. Otherwise, head to the harbor in the morning and ask the fishermen if you can tag along.   [caption id="attachment_50132" align="alignnone" width="1007"] Alifu Alifu ATOL, Maldives: Fishermans from Hangnaameedoo island going fishing with nets[/caption]   Learn to make local handicrafts  To truly understand a country’s culture, one must invest time in learning more about its handicrafts. The origins of these hand-made artifacts, as well as the materials and instruments used, say a lot about the artisanal ethos of the region. Across the Maldives, coconut, for example, is a very versatile fruit. From being an integral part of Maldivian cuisine to its use in making souvenirs, the humble coconut is everywhere.  Therefore, a lesson in wood-crafting is an excellent chance for the entire family to collectively gain knowledge about handicrafts in the Maldives.  Tourists looking for something unique should visit an island’s shipbuilding yard. It is here that locals make and repair dhonis. Dhoni is a traditional Maldivian wooden boat used primarily by fishers.  You can always walk to the shipyard and see the artisans at work. However, ask your guesthouse to arrange for a proper tour to get a better insight into the art of boat making.  Lastly, visiting local artisans, taking classes, and buying their products is a great idea to help support the local economy directly.  [caption id="attachment_50130" align="alignnone" width="1007"] Madoogali island, Maldives: A typical Maldivian fishing and tourist boat Dhoni in front of an island resort.[/caption]

New Viking Ship Reveals its Inaugural Season in Early 2023

14th Oct 2021 0

The brand-new Viking ship, Viking Saturn will provide three new Scandinavian and Nordic sailings, on its inaugural season in early 2023. The 930-passenger ship's inaugural voyages feature two 15-day voyages – Iconic Iceland, Greenland & Canada, and Iceland & Norway's Arctic Explorer – as well as a 29-day Greenland, Iceland, Norway & Beyond. Viking Star (shown) will sail on iconic Iceland, Greenland, and Canada itineraries. In August 2023, the line will reintroduce an eight-day itinerary to Iceland's Natural Beauty, calling at Akureyri, Seydisfjördur, and Djpivogur, among other places. Torstein Hagen, Chairman, stated: “These new itineraries are ideal for curious travellers and trace routes of the early Viking explorers to Iceland and other North Atlantic destinations known for their natural beauty. “We look forward to welcoming Viking Saturn to our fleet and to offering guests even more ways to explore this unique part of the world in comfort.”

UK Fintech Centtrip Opens Payment Tech and App in US

30th Sep 2021 0

Centtrip, a worldwide fintech company that specializes in spending management and card payment technologies, has launched in the United States. The finance technology company will deliver its platform, app, and card to American aviation sector clients as part of a cooperation with Ayden. Centtrip, designed for highly mobile firms like air charter companies, provides real-time insight and control over spending and card payments. The platform simplifies expense payment operations, lowers the cost and danger of carrying cash, and simplifies the accounting process. The Centtrip Mastercard has generous balance and transaction limitations, and businesses can have as many cards as they require. Cardholders and authorized administrators may manage their cards directly from the Centtrip app, including setting spending restrictions, freezing or unfreezing cards, and viewing transactions in real time. Clients can choose to pre-load monies onto individual cards or have all cards on an account draw from the same, central account balance. Centtrip's chief executive officer, Jane Turner, stated: “The aviation industry was one of the hardest hit during the COVID-19 pandemic, but the fundamentals such as speed and service remain. “The Centtrip app and online platform, as well as our high card limits, are tailor made for the private aviation industry when dealing with large expenditure. “By expanding into the US, we are giving highly mobile businesses in the private aviation industry more control, flexibility and visibility over their money.” Centtrip has launched an office in Miami Beach, Florida, and expects to grow its personnel in the United States in the following months.

Tradewind Voyages Announced Golden Horizon’s Mediterranean Debut Next Year

27th Sep 2021 0

Tradewind Voyages announced that Golden Horizon will make its Mediterranean premiere next year. The tall ship's season will begin in April in Portugal and end in October 2022 in Piraeus. The program will include travels to Portugal, Spain, France, Italy, Albania, Montenegro, Croatia, Slovenia, Greece, and Turkey, among other destinations. The first sailing in the region will be a seven-night journey from Lisbon to Palma, with the Balearic city serving as the departure point for all round-trip sailings beginning in May. From June to October, the ferry will make round journeys from Civitavecchia, Split, and Piraeus. "We're excited to bring the world's largest tall ship to the Mediterranean next summer," said Alan McGrory, CEO of Tradewind Voyages. "We're looking forward to announcing the details of this extraordinary portfolio very soon." The voyages will last seven to eleven nights, with complete details and costs to be announced on 19th October 2021.

6

Fancy a luxury Costa Rican getaway? Here are some of the top hotels around the country

24th Sep 2021 0

With stretches of secluded beaches, rainforests teeming with life, and some of the world’s best coffee, it’s no wonder Costa Rica is being discovered as one of the best places to travel. Although typically aimed at adventurous backpackers or hippy surfers, there’s a new wave of travelers hitting the shores of this Central American country: luxury travelers.  This guide aims to explore some of the more luxurious places to stay and relax. Whatever the hotel, from larger chains to smaller boutiques, you can be sure a unique and luxury stay will be waiting for you.    [caption id="attachment_49615" align="alignnone" width="1007"] Toucan sitting on the branch in the forest, green vegetation, Costa Rica. Nature travel in central America. Two Keel-billed Toucan, Ramphastos sulfuratus, pair of birds with a big bills. Wildlife.[/caption]   The Peace Lodge, La Paz Although not the most luxurious on the list, it is one of the most unique. It is the very uniqueness that earned The Peace Lodge the title of the Best Hotel in the Caribbean and Central America in 2015.  This experience rouses your senses, with a plethora of sounds, smells, and feelings within the walls of your own room. Listen to the open fire crackle (the mountains of Costa Rica can get chilly at night), feel the cascade of water on your body as your shower transforms into a waterfall with the press of a button, and see the impressive volcanic jungle views from your balcony. With each room housing at least one hot tub, this is a truly luxurious escape, with a twist. The jungle is literally in your room.    credit to the owner:  Peace Lodge the title of the Best Hotel in the Caribbean and Central America in 2015.     The Springs, Arenal If you’re looking for luxury, you’ve found it at The Springs. Set just outside the quaint town of La Fortuna, The Springs offers spectacular views of the impressive Arenal Volcano. In fact, CNN travel crowned this hotel with one of the best views in the world. But what sets The Springs apart is on the outside. Situated amid 165 acres of verdant forest, geothermal springs, heated by the volcano, flow freely and form lagoons in which you can relax. Enjoy the many activities on offer, from horseback riding to river tubing, then enjoy a cocktail in one of the many naturally heated pools.  Each large and spacious room is exquisitely decorated in the finest wood and marble, showcasing the very best of Costa Rican produce. Speaking of Costa Rican produce, the world-famous Sanctuary Spa uses tropical botanical ingredients native to the jungles of Costa Rica, as well as mineral-rich volcanic clay.     credit to the owner:  The Springs, Arenal   Four seasons Costa Rica, Gulf of Papagayo Travel North to Guanacaste and you will find Four Seasons. One of the drier regions of Costa Rica, Guanacaste, and more specifically Papagayo, offers endless opportunities to explore and relax. Nestled on a hillside, this luxury hotel offers picturesque views of the endless Pacific Ocean, where you can partake in ocean activities or simply relax on the beach. After a hard day of excursions, watch the sunset from the infinity pool. The colors are truly spectacular. When you’re ready to retire for the night, head back to your nature-inspired room. The rooms have been specifically designed to incorporate the tropical vibes of the region, to bring inner peace and tranquility. There is a big emphasis on wellness at The Four Seasons, including daily yoga and meditation sessions to connect the mind with nature.   credit  to the owner: Four Seasons of Costa Rica, Guanacaste, and more specifically Papagayo   Los Altos de Eros, Tamarindo Still, in the province of Guanacaste, we’re taking a break from the big hotels and downsizing. Los Altos de Eros is a small boutique hotel. But what this hotel lacks in size, makes up for in incredible hospitality and location. Each guest is truly treated like such, shrouded with the best treatment. The best part? A one-on-one discussion with the chefs themselves, so they can gauge what type of food you would like during your stay here.  The rooms are not modern, but this is not to say they aren’t luxurious. Using traditional local wood, the room has a tropical and fresh ambiance. From the rooms, a wealth of hiking trails allows you to appreciate the nature of the area. Spot howler monkeys from the luxury infinity pool.    credit to the owner: Los Altos de Eros   Lagarta Lodge, Nosara    Another boutique designated for sustainable tourism; Lagarta Lodge can be found in the untouched jungles of the Nicoya Peninsula. Enjoy your morning breakfast of local delicacies, overlooking the pristine jungle estuary down below. Gaze across the ocean and search for passing cetaceans from your balcony. But to explore this area in more detail, you can rent out kayaks that will allow you to discover all the nooks and crannies of these bustling ecosystems.  The rooms are modern and expertly decorated, again using the very best of Costa Rican craftsmanship. From your room, you have private views of the river, jungle, and ocean below. Of course, this wouldn’t be a luxury without relaxing in the on-site spa. A highly skilled team can offer some of the best massages in the area to rejuvenate your body.    credit to the owner: Lagarta Lodge   Tulemar, Manuel Antonio  Tulemar knows how to do luxury. Set amid 33 acres of luxurious gardens, and with access to a private beach in the popular destination of Manuel Antonio, this hotel allows you to enjoy the luxury of your own private villa. Surrounded by nature, wildlife thrives. Dotted around the resort are 4 swimming pools, as well as spa services. Tulemar offers adventure and luxury, relaxation and exploration, and all will exceptional customer service.    [caption id="attachment_49026" align="alignnone" width="1007"] Beautiful white sandy beach in Costa Rica.[/caption]   Nayara Springs, Arenal  We´re leaving the best until last with Nayara Springs. Undoubtedly one of the best luxury hotels in the WORLD. With an exceptional and dedicated team to cater to all your needs, Nayara goes above and beyond to ensure you have a memorable stay. The food is top class, with the very best of fine dining, incorporating Central American cuisine with European gastronomy to create a fusion of delicate flavors.  Nayara Springs pride themselves on sustainability, ensuring the property is thriving with vegetation to maintain populations of one of the most iconic residents of Costa Rica, the sloths. Thousands of trees have been planted, aiding in conservation tactics of threatened species. Whilst staying here, you can get up close and personal with these sleepy mammals, in their treetop home.  Many of the above hotels are leading experts in the field of luxury travel and can cater to your every need. Staying in any one of them is a rewarding experience, creating everlasting memories. Indulge in the activities of the area or simply relax, this is your time. Pura Vida.  credit to the owner: Nayara Springs Costa Rica  

7

How to experience the lifestyle of the super rich - a guide to spending a long weekend in Monaco

19th Sep 2021 0

At just 0.75 square miles in size, roughly the same footage as New York's Central Park, Monaco is the second smallest country in the world. Bordered by France on three sides and the Mediterranean sea to the south, Monaco is famous for its luxury and grandeur and offers fine dining, culture and an insight into the lives of the wonderfully rich and fabulous. Being so small means a long weekend here will give you all the time you need to experience the country and its opulence without having to spend a fortune, and you might even hit the jackpot while you are here! Accommodation in Monaco can be undeniably extortionate, but with private properties appearing more and more on rental sites such as Airbnb, options to stay in a somewhat compact but perfectly formed apartment are plenty. On average you can find a place to lay your head, close to the action, for around £80 a night, which will most often be studio apartments with a small kitchen, bathroom and living room come bedroom at night. With so much to do out and about, there is little need for anything more, and compared to the £500 - £1500 night prices you will find at hotels, these options are more than suitable for most. Because of its size, most of Monaco can be seen on foot, although there is an ample bus service and taxis readily available should you wish to venture around faster and further. Below are three great ideas of where to visit during your stay in Monaco, which you can build into your itinerary if they take your fancy - all without needing to break the bank, whilst still immersing yourself in the magnificence and splendour.     Rainier III Nautical Stadium With its Mediterranean climate and summer high temperatures of 27°c, a lazy day of swimming and sunbathing might be what you are looking for. A wonderful time can be had at the Rainier III Nautical Stadium, an outdoor Olympic sized swimming pool situated next to Port Hercule. The heated, saltwater pool has four diving platforms at 1m, 3m, 5m and 10m and around the outskirts are sun loungers and parasols to rent. Frequented by the locals as well as some tourists, the swimming pool feels authentically European and there is an impressive outlook over to the yachts moored in the harbour, as well as views of the steep hills which surround Monaco. There are changing rooms and lockers available, and a cafe for drinks and snacks or a light lunch if you fancy. Prices here are more than reasonable, especially compared to other pools and some beach entry prices in Monaco. Entry costs just €3.20 per person for a morning session, €4 for the afternoon or €5.70 to stay all day. Please be aware that from December through until March, the swimming complex transforms into self into an impressive ice rink, so don’t be disappointed when you can’t take an alfresco dip during the winter months. [caption id="attachment_49526" align="alignnone" width="1007"] Monaco, Monaco: The Rainier III Nautical Stadium, municipal sports complex in La Condamine district of Monaco. Built in 1972. Consists of a heated saltwater Olympic-size swimming pool, diving platforms and a 45m slide[/caption] The Café de Paris and the Monte Carlo Casino Monte-Carlo is one of the nine districts that make up Monaco and is undoubtedly the most famous, with its name instantly conjuring visions of glamour and luxury. If you are hoping for an unforgettable evening then visiting its centre, Place du Casino (Casino Square), with drinks at The Café de Paris and a visit to the Monte Carlo Casino will not disappoint. Facing the beautiful Hotel De Paris, the Café de Paris is a restaurant and bar decorated spectacularly in the Parisian style of the 1900s. The Brasserie menu is of course fantastic, but equally wonderful is sitting on the terrace sampling the cocktails and nos coupes de glaces (our ice cream cups), whilst watching supercar after supercar impressively drop off or pick up their respective owners all night. Booking for the restaurant is advised, but you can usually be seated without a reservation and with only a short wait on the terrace for drinks and something small. Cocktails prices range from around €18 to €22 but are worth it for both the taste and overall experience. Just next door in the square sits the Monte Carlo Casino. Synonymous with James Bond and the location for movies including GoldenEye and Never Say Never Again, the beautiful building and luxurious atmosphere is well worth a visit, even if you do not wish to gamble. Again, the cocktails are fabulous and it is enough to watch the fabulously dressed casino regulars in action from afar if that is your preference. It might be worth noting that photography is not allowed within the casino itself so make sure you take enough snaps outside and in the foyer if you want to. [caption id="attachment_49525" align="alignnone" width="1007"] Monte Carlo, Monaco: Grand casino in Monte Carlo in Monaco. French Riviera[/caption]   Monaco Old Town In Monaco's picturesque Old Town you will find beautifully quaint side streets and corners, as well as the Prince's Palace of Monaco. Reached by two roads, a favourite route can be found by walking the Rampe Major, where despite being steep and a little tiring, is well worth it for the beautiful scenery which can be along the footpath. Here views stretch nearly the entirety of Monaco, and right across to Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, east into France. Doing this walk late afternoon into dusk is the most beautiful; here it will not only be cooler if visiting in the summer months, but you will be able to take advantage of the stunning changing landscape under the sunset, twilight, into the twinkling night. If you do choose to visit in the day ambling around the Old Town you will find St. Nicholas Cathedral, where Grace Kelly was married and is now buried, the Palace itself, as well as three beautiful chapels, gardens and The Museum of Old Monaco. Up here on the hill are a handful of wonderful restaurants and cafes, including L'estragon, which, being slightly set back from the main palace square, makes for a perfect dinner spot if you are looking for a simple but tasty meal away from any crowds. If shopping is to your fancy Monaco, of course, offers this in spades, with Avenue de Monte-Carlo, Boulevard des Moulins and Avenue Princess Grace offering designer stores, elegant boutiques and high-end jewellers and perfumeries. Fine dining is also in abundance with Michelin-starred cuisine and famous restaurant brands situated here, most notably the Peruvian restaurant Coya, Chinese Song Qi, and Monaco's famed oyster bar Les Perles de Monte-Carlo. That being said, fabulous service and wonderful dishes are not just to be found in the lavish and high-priced restaurants, and hidden gems can be found tucked away for a fraction of the price, including Grubers for burgers and the small Italian Restaurant, Valentin to name a few. 11 UK airports fly to nearby Nice, including four London airports, Manchester, Edinburgh and Belfast. Once here, Monaco is a 30-minute taxi ride away and will cost around €80, or alternatively, a train service from Nice-Ville station to Monaco will take 21 minutes and can cost less than €4.   [caption id="attachment_49524" align="alignnone" width="1007"] Prince's Palace of Monaco[/caption]

4

Already been to Canada, so much more in one amazing country

11th Sep 2021 0

Exclusive Travel Holidays offers so much more to explore in Canada, and certified Canadian specialists, you may have already been to Canada like me and traveled, but our Canadian partners and can offer that little extra help on where in Canada would best suit you, working with several award-winning Canadian travel partners who are so passionate about the destinations who have been creating tailor-made holidays to Canada for over 30 years.   Alberta - discover the breathtaking beauty Alberta offers stunning glacial lakes, snow-capped mountains, cascading waterfalls, and a national park paradise with ranches offering amazing wildlife experiences that are just part of Alberta. Combined with the vast prairies and impressive cities of Calgary, home to the famous Stampede, and Edmonton with Canada’s largest shopping mall, Exclusive Travel Holidays believes Alberta is the place to be on your Canadian travels. [caption id="attachment_49268" align="alignnone" width="1007"] Edmonton downtown Winter skyline just after sunset at the blue hour showing Walterdale Bridge across the frozen, snow-covered Saskatchewan River and surrounding skyscrapers. Edmonton is the capital of Alberta, Canada.[/caption] Québec - explore French charm Quebec is a real melting pot of French, British and First Nation heritage forms the unique Québecoise culture which I really loved on my visits. The Old cobbled streets and Notre-Dame Basilica of Old Montréal with Québec City’s walled Citadel, sitting alongside modern Canadian cities, the old and the new contrast beautifully, and is such a massive difference if you have travelled from a big city like Toronto, as you explore the beautiful Charlevoix and the Laurentians, and its renowned Mont Tremblant, regions for stunning scenery. [caption id="attachment_49263" align="alignnone" width="1007"] Picture of the skyline of the Old Montreal, or Vieux Montreal, taken during a synny afternoon, with a focus on the towers of the Notre Dame Basilica Cathedral of Montreal, Quebec, and an old, stone skyscraper in background. Notre-Dame Basilica is a basilica in the historic district of Old Montreal, nd the major landmark of downtown Montreal[/caption] British Columbia - incredible wildlife and adventure British Columbia's untamed nature makes for unexpected moments and unparalleled wildlife adventures, with cities that sit on the doorstep of the wild, you're never far from stepping into nature and exploring the great outdoors. The atmosphere here is electric, fuelled by lively and eclectic towns and neighbourhoods that offer fabulous cuisine, sightseeing and shopping opportunities. Paddle along a glacial lake; dip into natural hot springs at Radium Hot Springs in Kootenay National Park; watch as a humpback whale breaches in the Pacific Ocean; do it in all in British Columbia. [caption id="attachment_49260" align="alignnone" width="1007"] Beautiful view of Inner Harbour of Victoria, British Columbia, Canada.[/caption] Atlantic Canada - discover coastal beauty Dramatic coastlines, quaint seaside towns and wonderful countryside adorn the Atlantic Provinces of New Brunswick, Newfoundland & Labrador, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island. Picture-perfect lighthouses, impressive whale watching, the world’s highest tides in the Bay of Fundy, sensational seafood dining await. [caption id="attachment_49259" align="alignnone" width="1007"] St. John's, capital of Newfoundland Labrador, NL, Canada, harbor and downtown seen from signal hill[/caption] Ontario - home to the famous Niagara Falls Ontario is home to beautiful hills, wonderful lake settings, and impressive natural wonders. Enjoy Toronto’s multi-cultural and cosmopolitan vibe, contrasting with Ottawa, Canada’s capital city on the Rideau River. For nature lovers, the thundering Niagara Falls are only a short distance from Toronto, and the Muskoka Lakes region and Algonquin National Park are perfect for those who enjoy the great outdoors. [caption id="attachment_49258" align="alignnone" width="1007"] Niagara Falls around Sunset, captured in New York, USA looking towards Ontario, Canada.[/caption] Yukon - perfect for natural wonders  Yukon is a land of pristine wilderness where moose outnumber people by two to one and the Aurora Borealis is a sight to behold. Filled with stunning national parks, spectacular wildlife and vast mountainous terrain, the Yukon is a perfect year-round destination. Visit the Yukon Wildlife Preserve for an outstanding opportunity to discover some of the most majestic mammals on the continent; see stunning landscapes and wildlife in its natural habitat at Kluane National Park and learn all about the Tr'ondëk Hwëch'in First Nation in Klondike; do it all in the Yukon. [caption id="attachment_49256" align="alignnone" width="1007"] The northern lights stream across the arctic sky near Yellowknife, Northwest Territories in Canada.[/caption]

Fiji Reopens to Foreign Travelers by 1st November

10th Sep 2021 0

By 1st November, Fiji intends to open its borders to international tourism. Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama of Fiji revealed this when he announced that the country would reopen tourism in November. “That's the aim we've set now, and it's based on the success we've had with the vaccine campaign,” the Prime Minister added. The ultimate goal, according to Fiji's tourism minister, Faiyaz Koya, is to securely restore quarantine-free travel. “So, in order to get there, we need to re-establish trust as a tourism destination first and foremost, and Tourism Fiji will play a vital role in building this particular trust,” he said. Fiji is a beautiful island country in Melanesia with an archipelago of over 330 islands. There are 110 permanently inhabited islands among them. The region is known for its scenic and clean beaches, with Nadi, the Coral Coast, Denarau Island, and the Mamanuca Islands among the most popular.  In addition, the location is home to a lot of soft coral reefs, making it an ideal location for scuba diving. Divers consider Yasawa Island, Denarau Island, and Beqa Lagoon to be paradises.