Marriott Hotels Opens Marriott Panama Hotel

31st Jan 2023 0

The Marriott Panama Hotel has opened, boasting a prime location that connects the city to the road leading to the Panama Canal and views of the mountains. Marriott Hotels, the flagship brand of 30 amazing Marriott Bonvoy® hotel brands, made the announcement. The establishment offers a variety of dining options, an outdoor pool, large meeting spaces, including a convention center, and easy proximity to Albrook Mall. For international tourists that value finding the right mix between work and pleasure travel, while still learning about and taking in the sights of Panama City, this hotel will be the perfect choice. Beginning with the Greatroom Lobby, the hotel's exquisite hub where guests may combine business with pleasure, guests are lured to modern and comfortable places that invite them to unwind from the moment they arrive. These spaces symbolize the Marriott Hotels' ongoing progress. The hotel has 331 roomy guest rooms with modern conveniences including open closets, LED televisions, and technology-enabled work stations. In addition, guests will have access to specifically selected TED content to enjoy during their stay thanks to the first long-term agreement between Marriott Hotels and TED. In addition to a coffee shop and 24-hour room service, the Marriott Panama Hotel includes two restaurants serving a variety of regional and international cuisines. Renovations were made to the restaurant, bar, pool area, and lobby, as well as the M Club. The M Club, a hallmark brand at Marriott hotels across the world, is a privileged place to unwind, reenergize, and refocus at any time of day. All day long, a variety of complementary food and drink options are available, including hot breakfast, late snacks and drinks, and premium beverages. A modern exercise facility, self-service laundry, an outdoor pool, and particular accommodations for visitors with four legs are among the other features. The hotel's Next Gen Meeting Spaces may be configured to accommodate a range of group sizes and formats and are intended to promote cooperation. The hotel is the ideal location for business or social gatherings with 5,002 square meters in 21 meeting rooms, including a 1,700 square meter convention center that can accommodate up to 1,600 people, 2 grand ballrooms, and 6 meeting rooms with natural sunshine. The hotel is adjacent to must-see local sites such the Cerro Ancon, the Amador Causeway, and Casco Antiguo, as well as the Marcos A. Gelabert International Airport. It is also connected to Albrook Mall, the biggest shopping center in Central America.      

Red Roof Announce Opening of Three Properties in the US

26th Jan 2023 0

Red Roof®, the leader in economy lodging, has announced the opening of properties in Texas, Georgia and North Carolina. Red Roof Inn & Suites Wilkesboro in Wilkesboro, North Carolina The 80-room Red Roof Inn & Suites Wilkesboro, near US-421, is a hotel with free parking, free Wi-Fi in the rooms, free coffee in the lobby, a snack area, and free extended cable. The hotel Red Roof Inn & Suites Wilkesboro welcomes four-legged guests. Nearby attractions and sites in the Wilkesboro, North Wilkesboro, and surrounding areas include the Wilkes Heritage Museum, Copper Barrel Distillery, Wilkesboro Dragway, and Garden of the Senses.   [caption id="attachment_56757" align="alignnone" width="924"] Red Roof Inn & Suites Wilkesboro[/caption] Red Roof Inn Fort Worth West in Forth Worth, Texas Off of Interstate 30, the 110-room Red Roof Inn Fort Worth West features free extended cable, free in-room Wi-Fi, free coffee in the lobby, free parking and limited bus/truck parking, a seasonal outdoor pool, coin laundry, and a snack center. Pets are welcome at the hotel Red Roof Inn Fort Worth West. The Fort Worth Zoo, Fort Worth Botanic Garden, Sundance Square, John Peter Smith Hospital, and the Naval Air Station Join Reserve Base Fort Worth are just a few of the local landmarks and tourist attractions that are close to Red Roof Inn Fort Worth West.   [caption id="attachment_56758" align="alignnone" width="924"] Red Roof Inn Fort Worth West[/caption] Red Roof Inn Savannah North - Port Wentworth in Port Wentworth, Georgia Red Roof Inn Savannah North - Port Wentworth, a 49-room hotel with free parking, free Wi-Fi in rooms, free coffee in the lobby, a seasonally open outdoor pool, coin laundry, and free extended cable, is conveniently located off I-95. Pets are welcome at the hotel Red Roof Inn Fort Worth West. The Savannah Convention Center, Downtown Port Wentworth, Historic Downtown Savannah, Savannah State University, Savannah College of Art and Design, and St. Joseph's Hospital are all within close proximity of the Red Roof Inn Fort Worth West. [caption id="attachment_56759" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Red Roof Inn Savannah North - Port Wentworth [/caption] The Red Roof Inn Savannah North - Port Wentworth, The Red Roof Inn Fort Worth West and Red Roof Inn & Suites Wilkesboro take part in RediRewards® from Red Roof, which offers advantages to members every day in addition to free nights! Members enjoy RediAccess to discount coupons across thousands of retail, entertainment, and service categories, RediSave 30% on their accommodation rate when they combine points with other payment options, and RediSave on other items when they spend their RediPoints on the RediShop catalog. Additionally, all three Red Roof inns take part in Red Roof's RediClean® program, which aims to keep staff and visitors secure.  

Emirates Skywards Celebrates 30 Million Members with a Whopping 1 Million Miles Giveaway

23rd Jan 2023 0

Emirates Skywards has surpassed a previous milestone with more than 30 million members registered globally. The prestigious loyalty program of Emirates and flydubai is celebrating in style with amazing deals and a chance to win a million Skywards Miles, among other prizes. The loyalty program has developed and expanded over the last 20 years to become one of the most recognizable and well-regarded loyalty programs worldwide. Emirates Skywards continues to reimagine the loyalty experience for consumers, both in the air and on the ground, with industry-leading initiatives, cutting-edge product offers, and more than 150 brand partners. Divisional Senior Vice President of Emirates Skywards, Dr. Nejib Ben Khedher, stated: "Thank you to each of our 30 million members who have made Emirates Skywards the successful loyalty programme it is today. This is a major milestone for us and we are very happy to be giving back to our loyal members who have played an invaluable role in our success. Stay tuned for some of the most amazing offers this month – from a chance to win 1 million Miles, upgrades to Business Class, and complimentary Tier upgrades – we have something in store for everyone! We always strive to provide our members the best value, choice and exceptional rewards a loyalty programme can offer - when you fly, dine, shop, or drive.  We’re very proud of this milestone and look forward to the road ahead of us.” Emirates will serve branded cupcakes to customers on a few specific flights from 30th January to 1st February 2023. From 23rd January to 4th February 2023, the loyalty program will also be releasing wonderful gifts to commemorate the milestone. This comprises: Win the Skywards Miles jackpot with one million miles! Enter the contest between 23rd January and 4th February 2023, for a chance to win a whopping one million miles, which would be enough to pay for more than ten one-way Emirates Business Class tickets from Dubai to London. Holders of credit cards with the Emirates Skywards co-branding who enter the contest can quadruple their chances of winning. Members of Emirates Skywards who travel to and through Dubai between 30th January and 1st February 2023 will also have the opportunity to win additional prizes. When you arrive at Dubai Airports, keep an eye out for a red "30 million" label on your luggage to see if you're one of the many fortunate winners! 300,000 free miles are up for grabs as part of the loyalty program's ongoing giveaway. 10 members will have the opportunity to earn 30,000 Miles apiece during the following three days. Enjoy complimentary access to some of the best Skywards+ incentives, including extra Miles, flight rewards, lounge access, and more, with one of the 10 Skywards+ packages. 30 Silver Tier upgrades: Join this month and receive a free Tier upgrade to become an Emirates Skywards Silver Tier member to receive amazing advantages and incentives. Fly even better on your subsequent flight and take advantage of a surprise upgrade to Business Class. Enjoy a free premium transport to and from Dubai Airports this month when you use one of the 30 free Chauffer Drive Service coupons. Additionally, flydubai customers traveling on February 7th, 2023, should anticipate some pleasant surprises, such as: Four upgrades to Silver Tier. Bonus Skywards Miles of 75,000. One Skywards+ package. Two complimentary Business Class upgrades. Seven access cards to Terminal 2's Flydubai Business Lounge.  

Silversea Cruises Offers Up to 20% Off on Various Arctic Trips

18th Jan 2023 0

A limited-time special from Silversea Cruises offers up to 20% off various Arctic trips. For reservations made between 17th January and 28th February 2023, travelers will receive discounts ranging from ten to twenty percent on specific Arctic cruises. Arctic Norway, Arctic Canada, and Greenland are all visited by this expedition. Barbara Muckermann, Silversea’s president and CEO, said: “Our limited-time Arctic promotion provides a great incentive for travelers to discover some of the world’s most remote destinations without compromising on luxury and comfort.” “Silversea’s Arctic offering is unique, with three ultra-luxury ships sailing in the region throughout 2023, including the world’s most luxurious expedition ship, Silver Endeavour℠; the most comprehensive all-inclusive offering in expedition cruising; and unmatched destination expertise that has been honed over 15 years. This is the perfect opportunity for our travel advisors to introduce clients to Silversea’s industry-leading cruise experience, which, thanks to our private executive transfers, includes a seamless journey that begins and ends at travelers’ homes.” The offer's Arctic excursion sailings include: Greenland - a ten-day trip leaving on 25th June 2023 from Reykjavik to Kangerlussuaq; Arctic Norway - 12th July 2023 departure from Longyearbyen to Troms. On 10th August 2023, a ten-day roundtrip voyage will leave from Pond Inlet, Nunavut, towards the Canadian High Arctic.  

Emirates Announces Operations of A380 Fleet to Glasgow, Nice, and Birmingham

14th Jan 2023 0

Emirates has announced that it will expand its A380 operations, bringing the storied double-decker back to Glasgow, Nice, and Birmingham. The airline has also declared that starting on 1st May 2023, it will restart operating a second daily flight to Stansted using its legendary "Game Changer" First Class Boeing 777-300ER wide-body aircraft. Emirates will expand its operations to London with 11 daily flights, including six times daily flights to London Heathrow and three times daily flights to Gatwick, with the resumption of the second daily trip to Stansted. In response to the rising demand for travel, the airline keeps extending its global network and capacity. With more than 80 Airbus A380s currently in use, Emirates is the largest Airbus A380 operator. With the Premium Economy cabin and Emirates' most recent cabin interiors, including lighter color palettes in First and Business Class, the first Emirates A380 to undergo a complete refurbishment as part of the airline's US$ 2 billion retrofit program was deployed earlier this month on the Dubai-London Heathrow service. By March 2024, the airline also intends to increase the number of locations it serves with its four-class A380, which includes Premium Economy cabins, to over 35 in 20 different nations. Customers adore the Emirates A380's roomy, comfortable cabins, quiet operation, and distinctive on-board amenities like the Onboard Lounge and First Class Shower Spa. Additionally, customers may take use of industry-leading inflight entertainment on ice, which features more than 5,000 channels of on-demand entertainment across all cabins on the biggest screens available.  

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Why you should consider Saudi Arabian Airlines for your next long haul holiday?

11th Jan 2023 0

Saudi Arabian Airlines offers very good flight prices compared to other Gulf airlines when flying from the UK to long haul destinations via Saudi Arabia. This makes it a budget-friendly option for travellers looking to fly to destinations in South Asia, the Middle East, or Africa with compromising on luxury, quality or service. The airline operates hub cities in both Jeddah and Riyadh, which are both major transportation hubs in the Middle East, making it easy to connect to a wide variety of destinations around the world. In addition to offering competitive prices, Saudi Arabian Airlines also operates a modern fleet of aircraft, provides excellent service, and offers a range of in-flight amenities, making it a convenient and comfortable choice for travellers.s The airline offers flights from both London and Manchester to a wide variety of destinations via its hub cities of Jeddah and Riyadh. Saudi Arabian Airlines has daily flights from London Heathrow to Riyadh and Jeddah and 5 flights a week from Manchester to Jeddah. [caption id="attachment_56530" align="alignnone" width="1005"] Jeddah corniche Aerial View[/caption] Leisure Destinations Served by Saudi Arabian Airlines Here are some of the top destinations you can fly to on Saudi Arabian Airlines from London and Manchester via Riyadh and Jeddah: Chennai: Located in southern India, Chennai is a bustling and vibrant city with a rich history and culture. Cochin: Located in the southwestern coast of India, Cochin is a port city known for its beautiful beaches and natural beauty. Delhi: The capital of India, Delhi is a bustling and vibrant city with a mix of modern and traditional culture. Hyderabad: Located in southern India, Hyderabad is a modern city with a rich history and a thriving business district. Mumbai: The financial and entertainment capital of India, Mumbai is a bustling and diverse city with a rich history and culture. Kuala Lumpur: The capital of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur is a modern and vibrant city with a mix of modern and traditional culture. Male: The capital of the Maldives, Male is a small island city known for its beautiful beaches and luxury resorts. Manila: The capital of the Philippines, Manila is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city with a mix of modern and traditional culture. Singapore: A small city-state in South East Asia, Singapore is known for its modern skyline, clean streets, and diverse culture. Bangkok: The capital of Thailand, Bangkok is a bustling and vibrant city with a mix of modern and traditional culture. Johannesburg: The largest city in South Africa, Johannesburg is a modern and diverse city with a rich history and a thriving business district. Mauritius: An island nation in the Indian Ocean, Mauritius is known for its beautiful beaches and luxury resorts. Nairobi: The capital of Kenya, Nairobi is a modern and vibrant city with a mix of modern and traditional culture. Dubai: Located in the United Arab Emirates, Dubai is known for its luxurious hotels, shopping centers, and iconic landmarks like the Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building. Abu Dhabi: The capital of the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi is a modern and prosperous city with a mix of modern and traditional culture. Muscat: The capital of Oman, Muscat is a modern and prosperous city with a mix of modern and traditional culture. Saudi Arabian Airlines offers nonstop flights to these destinations from London and Manchester, as well as connecting flights to other destinations in South Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. Whether you are planning a beach holiday, a city break, or an adventure in the great outdoors, Saudi Arabian Airlines has something to offer.   Why travelling with Saudi Arabian Airlines is still a great choice despite it being a dry airline? Travelling with Saudi Airlines can be a great experience, even though the airline does not serve alcohol on its flights. Here are some reasons why travelling with Saudi Airlines can be a great choice: Convenient hub cities: Saudi Airlines operates hub cities in both Jeddah and Riyadh, which are both major transportation hubs in the Middle East. This makes it easy to connect to a wide variety of destinations around the world. Modern fleet: Saudi Airlines operates a modern fleet of aircraft, including Airbus and Boeing planes, which are known for their comfort and safety. In-flight entertainment: Saudi Airlines offers a wide range of in-flight entertainment options, including movies, TV shows, music, and games, to keep you entertained during your flight. Delicious meals: Saudi Airlines is known for its delicious meals, which are prepared using fresh, high-quality ingredients. The airline offers a wide range of meal options to suit different dietary needs and preferences. Friendly and professional staff: The staff at Saudi Airlines are known for their friendly and professional service, and are always ready to help with any requests or needs you may have during your flight. Comfortable seating: Saudi Airlines offers comfortable seating with plenty of legroom, so you can relax and enjoy your flight. Competitive prices: Saudi Airlines often offers competitive prices on flights, making it a budget-friendly option for travelers. Western Tourists should not be afraid of Saudi Arabia Travelling via Saudi Arabia on Saudi Airlines can be a great experience for western travellers, despite the country being a predominantly Muslim one. While it is true that Saudi Arabia has its own unique set of cultural norms and traditions, this should not deter western travellers from visiting and exploring the country. One of the major benefits of travelling via Saudi Arabia is the modern infrastructure that the country has to offer. Despite its conservative reputation, Saudi Arabia is a modern and prosperous country with a well-developed infrastructure. This includes modern airports and transport systems, as well as a wide range of hotels, restaurants, and other amenities that cater to travellers from all over the world. Another reason why travelling via Saudi Arabia can be a great experience is the friendly and welcoming nature of the local population. Despite cultural differences, the people of Saudi Arabia are generally very friendly and welcoming towards western travellers. Many Saudis are keen to learn about other cultures and are happy to engage in conversation with visitors. In addition to the practical benefits of travelling via Saudi Arabia, there are also many cultural experiences to be had in the country. Saudi Arabia is a country with a rich history and culture that is unlike anything you will find in the West. From the stunning architecture of the mosques to the traditional music and dance of the country, there is much to discover and enjoy in Saudi Arabia. For many western travellers, a visit to Saudi Arabia is also an opportunity to learn more about Islam and the role it plays in the world. A business class product on par with the gulf carriers Seats: The business class seats on Saudia are some of the most comfortable you will find on any airplane. They are generously sized and offer plenty of legroom, as well as a recline that allows you to fully stretch out and relax. The seats also come equipped with a range of features, including adjustable lighting, in-seat power outlets, and a built-in massager, to help you unwind during your flight. Service: The service on Saudi Arabian Airlines is always top-notch, and this is especially true in business class. The flight attendants are friendly, attentive, and go out of their way to ensure that all of your needs are met. They are also very efficient and always seem to be one step ahead, anticipating your needs before you even know you have them. Food: The food on Saudi Arabian Airlines is always excellent, and this is especially true in business class. The meals are well-balanced and flavourful, and there is a good selection of options to choose from. The airline also offers a range of special meals to accommodate different dietary needs, which is a nice touch. Amenities: In addition to the comfortable seats and excellent service, Saudi Arabian Airlines also provides a range of amenities for business class passengers on the 787. This includes a range of high-quality skincare and grooming products, as well as noise-cancelling headphones and a pillow and blanket to help you sleep.      

Air Transat Puts Transatlantic Tickets On Sale

05th Jan 2023 0

In a seat sale that begins today, Air Transat has reduced its lowest transatlantic tickets. Gatwick to Toronto's lead-in return fare has been dropped from £411 to £379 for the current sale, which is available through 25th January. The prices are valid for travel with the Canadian airline through 31st October. The discounted £379 fare is also valid for flights from Glasgow and Manchester to Toronto. In addition, during the deal, Gatwick-Montreal flights will be £389 and Gatwick-Quebec City fares will be £469. The sale also includes new connecting flights from the UK to Florida and California, with return tickets from Gatwick starting at £535 for Orlando, £536 for Los Angeles, £561 for Miami, £580 for Fort Lauderdale, and £671 for San Francisco.  

Marriott Bonvoy Expands Presence in Reno, Nevada with the Opening of Element Reno Experience District, Element by Westin®

02nd Jan 2023 0

With the debut of Element Reno Experience District, Element by Westin®, one of 30 outstanding brands in the Marriott Bonvoy portfolio, expanded its presence in Reno, Nevada. The 170-suite hotel is owned by PL Hotel Project Owner LLC and run by Bethesda, Maryland-based Marriott International, Inc. The newly constructed Element hotel is proud to be environmentally friendly from the first and incorporates green techniques and materials into its design, furnishing, and building processes. The five-story hotel provides easy access to Lake Tahoe, the University of Nevada - Reno, the Nevada Museum of Arts, and the Pioneer Center for the Performing Arts. It is situated at 2030 Element Lane in the brand-new Reno Experience District, the hub of entertainment in Reno, two miles from the airport. The Element Reno Experience District provides diverse floor plans ranging from studios to suites to ensure that both business and leisure travelers get the most out of their stay. All guest rooms have the distinctive Heavenly® Bed, a fully functional kitchen, a spacious desk for working efficiently, spa-inspired bathrooms, and high-speed Wi-Fi. The hotel has the most up-to-date in-room entertainment systems, enabling guests to access their streaming services through the HDTV when it's time to unwind. The brand-new hotel also features the exclusive Studio Commons, a four-bedroom apartment from Element with a special private communal area. designed to satisfy a range of requirements, such as group travel for friends and family to celebrate special occasions or project collaboration between professionals. This room type offers travelers the best of both worlds while traveling because it is the first in the industry to combine the comfort and convenience of home with the convenience of a hotel room. By providing a free Rise breakfast every morning that includes a make-your-own parfait yogurt station, a fresh assortment of whole fruits, and other nutritious options, Element Hotels hopes to motivate travelers to keep a healthy and active lifestyle. Both the Motion Exercise facility and the Restore pantry are open 24/7 for anyone who want to maintain their fitness regimen. A rooftop pool, hot tub, and fire pit are among the additional hotel features at the Element Reno Experience District. There is also 1,820 square feet of practical meeting space, a lobby bar, an outdoor patio with a barbecue grill, electric-car charging stations, and the Element's Bike to Borrow program, which lets you borrow bicycles and safety helmets for free. The Love That Dog program at this canine-friendly hotel offers free dog beds, snacks, bowls, and cleaning materials. Come together at this longer stay hotel, whether you're just stopping by for a few days or staying for a few weeks. At the brand-new Element Reno Experience District, choose your own space.  

Ryanair to Add Two More Flights to Porto Next Summer

27th Dec 2022 0

In the summer of 2023, Ryanair will run two additional services to Porto. From April, there will be three weekly flights from Bristol and a twice-weekly service from Leeds to Porto. Ryanair has started a seat sale on summer 2023 rates to coincide with the announcement, with tickets starting at £29.99. Director of marketing and digital Dara Brady said: “With Easter and summer 2023 fast approaching, we are delighted to be bringing even more choice and value to our customers in England with the addition of these new Porto routes to our summer 2023 schedule, offering our customers in Bristol and Leeds even more choice when planning their long-awaited summer holidays. “To mark the good news, we’ve launched a limited-time seat sale for early bird customers looking to bag themselves a bargain on their summer 2023 holiday.” A brand-new twice-weekly service from Exeter airport to Faro has also been announced by the airline.    

Mercure Hida Takayama, Mercure's Newest Hotel to Open in Japan

20th Dec 2022 0

The newest hotel in Mercure's expanding portfolio in Japan is the Mercure Hida Takayama, which is situated in the ancient city of Takayama, Gifu. Mercure is a top brand worldwide. The hotel, which is scheduled to open today, 20th December 2022, will draw warmth and calm with its recreation of Takayama's traditional handicrafts and local hotel experiences. The Mercure Hida Takayama is well located in the center of the city and is only a four-minute walk from JR Takayama Station. It has 161 exquisitely designed guestrooms and seven different accommodation types to suit different travel needs, including connecting rooms and accessible rooms. A welcoming lounge by the hotel's main door is furnished with a fireplace and serves as a gathering spot for guests as they enter, while a pleasant lobby on the first floor has a modern wooden chandelier and shelves displaying local artwork. Hobar, a restaurant and bar with a Mediterranean flair, gets its name from the Japanese word for magnolia leaves, which are historically used to prepare the local meal of the Gifu Prefecture. Hobar serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner using seasonal ingredients and the renowned Hida beef. The hotel's top level has both indoor and outdoor onsens, which provide visitors a haven of relaxation after a long day of touring. For couples and families who like some privacy as they relax and enjoy Takayama's breathtaking environment, three private onsens are ideal. The city of Takayama is located in the Gifu Prefecture's mountainous Hida area. Bus transportation makes it simple to get to the well-known Historic Villages of Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage site. With its conserved wooden merchant houses and museums, Takayama's Sanmachi Historic District will take visitors back in time to the Edo Period. For those looking for a taste of the area, there are many unique sake breweries and local delights. The city is particularly well-known for its twice-yearly Takayama Festival, one of the most exquisite celebrations of spring and autumn. One of the largest midscale hotel chains in the world, Mercure, provides hotels that are locally inspired, capturing the unique personality and culture of each location it calls home. Through design, food, and genuine hotel experiences, Mercure lives up to its brand promise and promotes the idea that travel ties visitors to the area and its residents. In Japan, Accor now manages 19 hotels in eight different cities. Mercure Hida Takayama will join a group of over 810 Mercure addresses globally across 60 countries as the eighth Mercure hotel in Japan.  

Ennismore to Open Two Property in Ibiza in June 2023

17th Dec 2022 0

The first hotels built by Ennismore on the Spanish island of Ibiza will be the Mondrian Ibiza and Hyde Ibiza, which will debut in June 2023 on the island's seafront. With the opening of two new Mondrian and Hyde hotels on the island of Ibiza, Ennismore, the fastest-growing lifestyle hospitality brand, and Grupo Azul Mar Cala Llonga, owned by Apollo, announce the extension of their worldwide collective in Spain. In June 2023, Mondrian Ibiza and Hyde Ibiza, which will have nine dining and drinking establishments as well as highly planned pool areas, nightlife, and music venues, are scheduled to open on the picturesque bay of Cala Llonga. With 15 hotels set to open across Europe in 2023, the initiative is a reflection of Ennismore's substantial growth in the area. MONDRIAN IBIZA The Mondrian Ibiza will be a luxury lifestyle hotel when it opens, with 154 roomy guestrooms and three cutting-edge dining options, and will be ideally situated on the east side of Ibiza, facing the picturesque bay of Cala Llonga. The Beades Architects and Cuarto Interior-designed hotel will run seasonally from mid-June to mid-October. The oceanfront hotel will include two pools with ocean views and rooms with Mediterranean Sea views. Colorful accents can be seen in both public and private settings, and there is a strong art program. Hotel guests and residents alike may immerse themselves in the best of the city at Mondrian properties, which are constantly at the center of the most fascinating and cultural scenes in the globe. In a legendary setting, Mondrian Ibiza will provide unique experiences. An wide patio with bay views, VIP fire pits, and a transportive, deep blue greeting room are among the public spaces. A highly sought-after collection of culinary options will be housed in Mondrian Ibiza, including NIKO, a traditional, subtle, and tranquil Japanese restaurant that specializes in fine sushi and overlooks the bay. The Perq will be a day-to-night coffee bar that will provide direct trade coffee, tea, fresh fruit, smoothies, and juices made with ethically sourced ingredients along with delectable baked goodies during the day and local beers and natural wines at night. The all-day coffee and cocktail bar Sun & Moon will serve light fare and drinks with an Australian-inspired comfort cuisine and regional mixology flair. Atalaya Street, 20 in Cala Llonga, 07849, will be the address of Mondrian Ibiza. Ibiza is one of the Balearic Islands; for further details, go to MondrianIbiza.com and follow @mondrianibiza on Instagram. HYDE IBIZA The vivacious Hyde Ibiza, which will have 401 guest rooms, will be situated next to Mondrian Ibiza and tucked away in a superb coastal location overlooking the lovely coastline of Cala Llonga. From mid-June until mid-October, the hotel will be open seasonally. Highly interactive public spaces created by the Spanish design studios Beades Architects and Cuarto Interior will offer a chance to network and learn about engaging pop-ups, partnerships, and programming. While suites will have enhanced materiality and expansive views of the Balearic Islands, guest rooms will have a bohemian chic style with an earthy sensibility through natural textures, handcrafted millwork, and artisan touches like a table inspired by Ibiza jewelry. Warm timbers, timbered details, hand-crafted decorations, and social aspects like a trademark giant sofa in the lobby are included in the design. Hyde Ibiza will have five different food and drink establishments, including an ocean-to-table restaurant showcasing the bounty of the Balearics; a lounge-style pool bar with classics that taste best with the sun on your skin and saltwater in your hair; a day club with cabanas, cocktails, and international DJ sets; and a nightclub with cabanas, cocktails, and live music performances from around the world; Hyde Ibiza will bring to the island a thriving pool scene along with a highly sought-after laid-back live music venue, acting as a nexus for both local and outside performers alike. Carte Blanched, a pioneering in-house group of chefs and mixologists at Ennismore, has chosen the menus for both Mondrian Ibiza and Hyde Ibiza. Four specialized in-house studios at Ennismore foster creativity and innovation while fussing over every aspect of the visitor experience. They are Partnerships Studio, which develops international brand and activation partnerships, AIME Studios, an award-winning interior and graphic design studio, Staymore, a lab for digital product and technology innovation, and Carte Blanched, a fully integrated food and beverage studio that creates novel and extraordinary culinary experiences. The lifestyle sector of the hospitality business is one of the fastest-growing, and Ennismore is leading the charge with its collective of 14 brands, which comprise 103 active hotels, 144 more that are under construction, and more than 190 restaurants and bars.

Walt Disney World Resort Releases Holiday Offer for 2023

15th Dec 2022 0

Walt Disney World Resort has released a holiday offer for 2023 for reservations made by 2nd March 2023. Customers will receive a 14-day theme park ticket for the price of a seven-day ticket, which includes the ability to move between parks and unlimited downloads of photos taken by park photographers, as well as up to four free nights at a Disney resort of their choice. Customers will also receive $200 (£160) in spending money per booking for specific arrival dates if they buy a flight inclusive package with Walt Disney Travel Company. There is complimentary on-site transportation available to those staying at a Disney hotel. The lead-in cost for a 14-night stay at a resort that includes lodging at Disney's All-Star Music Resort, direct return flights with British Airways from Gatwick to Orlando International, and a 14-day park pass is £1,552. The cost is calculated based on a standard room being shared by two parents and two children under the age of 10 and leaving on 4th September 2023.

EU to Allow Mobile Data and Calls in Flight by 2023

10th Dec 2022 0

The European Commission recently decided that airlines may permit both mobile data and 5G on board. In other words, you wouldn't be blocked off from the outside world when in the air anymore. You'll be able to stay in touch with the outside world while in flight, make calls, stream videos, and finish up work. Nevertheless, the UK may not follow since this significant shift currently only affects the European Union. Although 5G will now be permitted on airplanes, individual airlines will still have the final say on whether to adopt it. Even if the UK follows the EU's lead, it might not really matter because many airlines, including Virgin and British Airways, already forbid audio or video conversations. However, it's a substantial change if you're flying on an airline that has decided to apply it at some point in 2023 and traveling within the EU.

Hawaiian Airlines and Jetstar to Fly to Cook Islands by 2023

07th Dec 2022 0

With the opening of two additional routes in 2023, the Cook Islands hopes to increase the number of visitors. Beginning in May 2023, Hawaiian Airlines will fly once per week between Honolulu and Rarotonga. Fares will go on sale today, 7th December. Jetstar will start operating a twice-weekly flight from Sydney to Rarotonga in June, and tickets are now on sale. According to Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown, tourism is the "backbone of the economy," accounting for 75% of GDP, and the new routes are crucial for the small island nation. “The new services provide a major boost to our tourism sector and the financial impact for local tourism operators and the nation is significant,” he said. “We are delighted that Hawaiian Airlines and Jetstar are making this commitment to the Cook Islands.”

Club Med Tignes Opens Its Doors to Visitors

05th Dec 2022 0

A brand-new ski resort catering to active families and couples opens its doors to visitors on 2nd December. The newest ski-in/ski-out resort to join Club Med's all-inclusive Alpine locations is Club Med Tignes. It contains 430 rooms, two restaurants, a swimming pool, a spa, and a wellness center. It also offers a variety of winter sports, such as skiing, glacier hiking, snowshoeing, fat biking, bobsleighing, sledding, and, in a first for Club Med, scuba diving beneath frozen lake ice. “This is a new chapter in Tignes as we have been here since 1958”, said Henri Giscard d’Estaing, president of Club Med. “We’re excited to welcome guests to this exceptional premium resort as Club Med moves to become a global leader of premium all-inclusive holidays for families and active couples.” Ski classes for youngsters four and older, a kids' club, a babysitting service, and supervised skiing and snowboarding for teens are just a few of the resort's family-friendly selling points. Due to the all-inclusive philosophy used at Club Med Tignes, guests receive ski tickets upon arrival, ski lessons are not an additional expense, and meals as well as all drinks, even alcoholic ones, are included in the trip fee. Club Med built the new resort with sustainability in mind; it is BREEAM-certified, has rooftops that can support 150 solar panels, and has a sustainability plan that forbids the use of plastic bottles inside the resort, has strict guidelines for reducing food waste, and recycles used ski equipment. The interiors of Club Med Tignes were created by Studio Jean-Philippe Nuel Architecture and Design, drawing inspiration from the local mountain culture and incorporating collaborations with snowboarder and street artist Lucas Beaufort from France. This introduction comes as Club Med reports that 53% of those surveyed stated they were considering traveling to a different location for their winter sports vacations, with France emerging as the most cost-effective option. Tignes is one of the most popular resort destinations for Club Med, with sales up 36% from this time last year. Additionally, despite the cost-of-living problem, 60% of frequent skiers want to spend more on their vacations in the coming months, according to the report. Nicolas Bresch, managing director UK and Nordics at Club Med, commented: “With prices and currencies fluctuating in these uncertain times, we’ve made a promise to our customers and are guaranteeing that the price of their stay will not change after booking.” “We believe the all-inclusive ski holiday model will be more attractive than ever given this, with customers feeling safe in the knowledge that they are not going to be hit with lots of additional costs after booking,” he added. The opening of Club Med Val d'Isere in the French Alps later this month will expand the operator's selection of winter sports in the area.

Jet2.com and Jet2holidays Secures Additional of New Slots at Stansted

28th Nov 2022 0

With the addition of new slots at Stansted, Jet2.com and Jet2holidays are now able to base an additional aircraft at the Essex airport and provide more flights and vacations to the Balearic Islands, Croatia, Greece, and Turkey. There will be more flights to Ibiza, Majorca, Dubrovnik, Split, Corfu, Crete (Chania and Heraklion), Kos, Kefalonia, Rhodes, and Dalaman, among other destinations. Additionally, for the first time, the airline and operator will provide city breaks from Stansted to Rome and Athens. It happens after Jet2 CEO Steve Heapy announced Jet2.com and Jet2holidays would aim to launch new locations over the coming months and improve its position in the Mediterranean during his speech at the Jet2 conference earlier this month. There are currently 2.1 million Jet2 seats available from Stansted to 42 sun and city locations for the summer of 2023, an increase of more than 10% from the summer of 2022. During the busiest months of the upcoming summer, July and August, when it will run more than 225 flights per week, Jet2 will also allocate a 16th aircraft to Stansted.

Baglioni Hotels & Resorts to Launch New Locations in Europe and Italy

24th Nov 2022 0

Following Palace Resorts' acquisition of a controlling stake in Cogeta Spa, the holding company for the Italian hotel chain Baglioni Hotels & Resorts, the latter will launch new locations in Europe and Italy. The companies stated in a statement that the partnership will result in "new successful openings in Italy and Europe through direct acquisition from the real estate sector of Palace Resorts." Baglioni has locations in Rome, Florence, Milan, Venice, Sardinia, Apulia, London, and the Maldives. The partnership is also anticipated to assist Baglioni in expanding its US clientele, which accounts for 70% of Palace Resorts' revenue. Additionally, Baglioni will have access to the more than 75,000 members of the Palace Elite Vacation Club, who rank Italy and the Maldives as their top two "dream locations." It is anticipated that Baglioni will also gain from increased productivity and decreased operating expenses. The Chapur family owns Palace Resorts, which just purchased a 75% share in Cogeta Spa. Guido Polito, the CEO of Baglioni, announced that he would continue in his position and stated: “I am honoured that the Chapur family has recognised Baglioni Hotels & Resorts as the primary luxury European brand, seeing the potential that we still have for further developments in Italy and in other key international destinations.” In a statement the brands said: “Palace Resorts adds a luxury European brand to its current portfolio, gaining also an experienced and professional management team to handle future hotels, resorts and real estate investments in Europe, Asia and the Middle East. "At the same time, Palace Resorts will bring to the Americas and the Caribbean the recognised Italian brand to diversify the product offering for [Palace Resort’s] members and clients in the destinations in which [Baglioni] are already leaders in the market.”

Loganair Sets Newquay to Manchester Flights Restart Earlier

19th Nov 2022 0

The resumption of flights between Newquay and Manchester will be six weeks earlier thanks to Loganair. The route was scheduled to resume on 26th March 2023, with the commencement of the summer schedule, but will now do so on February 10. Fees for one way travel begin at £52.99. Passengers will be allowed to travel throughout the February half-term break thanks to the modification. From the Newquay airport in Cornwall, additional Loganair routes to Edinburgh and Newcastle will resume on 26th March. Luke Lovegrove, the regional airline's chief commercial officer, stated: “We’re very pleased to announce the early recommencement of our Newquay–Manchester route benefiting those with February half term travel plans. “We continue to work closely with the teams at both airports and are keen to maximise the potential of this route in line with our continued commitment to UK regional connectivity.” Amy Smith, head of commercial at Cornwall airport Newquay, added: “Cornwall is more than a summer destination and this February start, as a result of the demand the airline is seeing, is a good indication of that. “We’re anticipating continued strong growth in passenger numbers next year and are very pleased that Loganair will play a key part in that as one of our valued airline partners.”

Azamara to Include 44 Additional Routes for Winter 2024–2025

15th Nov 2022 0

The winter 2024–2025 deployment plans from Azamara include 44 additional routes. The four small ships of the line will go to Europe, Asia, Australia, South America, and Africa. Azamara Journey is based in South America, Azamara Pursuit travels to Asia and Australia, and Azamara Quest will operate six South Africa sailings. Azamara Onward will set sail from San Diego, California to Southampton in 2025 on a voyage that calls at 37 different nations. One of the eight new ports of call, which also include stops in the Pacific, the Philippines, and Cambodia, is Saint Helier in Jersey. The itinerary comprised 171 overnights and late stays in ports. Carol Cabezas, president of Azmara, stated: “We are very excited to bring our guests to every corner of the world aboard our four-ship fleet.  “Our smaller ships will visit unique ports and hidden gems around the world, including maiden ports in the Philippines, Fiji, Samoa, and beyond.  “With high demand for cruising and unique travel experiences across all regions, we look forward to continuing to immerse our guests in some of the world’s most beautiful and culture-rich destinations.”

Hurtigruten to Launch Inaugural Voyages from Scotland Next Year

08th Nov 2022 0

Hurtigruten Expeditions will launch its inaugural voyages out of Scotland next year. The 500-passenger MS Maud will be used by the adventure line to travel between Reykjavik and Edinburgh's Leith port. The Faroe Islands, Shetland, and Orkney are among the places that are visited on the North Atlantic cruises. There are two separate ten-day itineraries planned for 1st July and 19th September. Prices for the September sailing begin at £2,490 per person.

Oetker Collection Announced Plans to Operate Hotel in Palm Beach

02nd Nov 2022 0

Oetker Collection has announced plans to take over The Chesterfield, a landmark hotel in Palm Beach, as its first establishment in the country. The Florida property will reopen as The Vineta Hotel in Palm Beach in late 2023 after undergoing "top-to-bottom" renovations. The Reuben Brothers, a private equity, real estate investment, and development team, and Oetker have once again partnered. The Reuben Brothers previously worked with the hotel brand on the recently opened The Woodward in Geneva and the upcoming Hotel La Palma in Capri. The Vineta Hotel is located in the center of Palm Ocean, two blocks from Worth Avenue, which is well-known for its upscale shops, restaurants, and art galleries. The beach is also nearby. The almost-100-year-old building debuted in 1926 under the name Lido-Venice. It was given the name The Vineta shortly after that and stayed that way for 50 years. The building briefly served as a condo before resurfacing as The Chesterfield in 1989. The hotel's 12th "Masterpiece Hotel," according to Oetker, would "pay tribute to the hotel's legacy" in its new incarnation. “This is a monumental moment in the brand’s history as we announce our first Masterpiece Hotel in the United States,” said Timo Gruenert, chief executive of Oetker Collection. “Many of our existing guests have long visited or are residents of Palm Beach, and we therefore look forward to extending Oetker Collection’s unique hospitality ethos based on our values of family spirit, elegance and genuine kindness, to this wonderful town with The Vineta Hotel.” Jamie Reuben of Reuben Brothers added: “We are incredibly excited to be working with Oetker Collection on The Vineta Hotel in Palm Beach – a place very close to my and my family’s heart. With Oetker Collection’s renowned and refined approach to luxury hospitality, I am confident that the hotel will become a staple in Palm Beach for generations to come.” The home will undergo renovations under the direction of Paris-based interior designer Tino Zervudachi, who will reduce the number of rooms from 53 to 41. The Vineta Hotel will provide four distinct "environments" on the ground floor. The courtyard will reappear as a popular spot for al fresco dining, while the former Leopard Lounge will get a complete makeover to serve casual lunches and lively feasts. Oetker will also debut a brand-new indoor-outdoor poolside restaurant with a Mediterranean theme and a statement bar that plays on the term "American Bar." “The concept behind the interior design for The Vineta Hotel is to infuse it with a fresh Palm Beach feel by bringing in clean lines, a relaxed ambiance, and a stylish and younger feeling palette of colours,” said Zervudachi. “It’s my aim to create a real new venue for visitors and residents alike – taking extra care to enhance the exterior dining spaces both at the pool and the courtyard – by establishing a cosmopolitan look that blends European design cues with the destination’s unmistakable aesthetic.”

British Airways Brings Back Its Full Club World Service

29th Oct 2022 0

After reducing the premium experience during the pandemic to restrict interaction between employees and guests, British Airways has again reinstated its full Club World service. When full service is restored, diners will enjoy a novel dining experience in which each meal is presented to them separately. As part of its newly revamped menu, British Airways will start serving hot soups and warm sweets, utilizing ingredients from regional British producers. Additionally, the airline is bringing back its speedy service on evening flights, when passengers can ask for a single tray so they can eat and then sleep. British Airways' head of onboard experience, Sajida Ismail, stated: "It’s incredibly important that when we brought our full service back, it exceeded our customers’ expectations. "We have taken time to ensure that we are offering a premium brasserie-style dining experience that not only tastes good, but one that our crew feel confident in delivering." In addition, the airline is still introducing its newest Club Suite business class seat across its Boeing 777 aircraft.

Emirates Celebrates World Vegan Day with New Vegan Options Onboard

25th Oct 2022 0

In honor of the forthcoming World Vegan Day on 1st November, Emirates has made a significant investment into new vegan options onboard in response to the growing demand for plant-based food. In First and Business Class, a specially curated menu of gourmet vegan dishes has been offered, while the menus in Economy Class have also welcomed a new lineup of plant-based foods. Emirates is setting new standards in customer experience with delicious and healthy options for cosmopolitan customers following a vegan lifestyle or for those who want a lighter meal option while traveling. This is done to cater to the rapidly expanding global vegan community and the general interest in herbivorous diets. Onboard, in Emirates Lounges, and for pre-order, vegan options are offered.

Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection Celebrates First-Ever Departure of Inaugural Ship

17th Oct 2022 0

An "important moment" for the hospitality industry has been reached with the first-ever departure of the inaugural ship in the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection. After setting out on its maiden trip from Barcelona to Nice on Saturday (15th October), The Ritz-Carlton announced that Evrima, the first of its three custom-built yachts, will provide "highly personalized holidays for travelers looking to fully immerse themselves in the culture of each location". “We are thrilled to introduce The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection and usher in an exciting new chapter for this beloved brand,” said Chris Gabaldon, senior vice-president for luxury brands at Marriott International. “The Ritz-Carlton has long been rooted in innovation and service excellence, guided by a commitment to be at the forefront of delivering transformative travel experiences. “As we continue to evolve our legendary brand, we could not be more excited to give our guests the opportunity to experience The Ritz-Carlton in a new way.” Evrima has a length of 190 meters and can carry 298 passengers. Private terraces and floor to ceiling windows are included in every room. The majority of Evrima journeys span seven or ten nights and stop at ports in the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Central America, and South America. Along the journey, stops will be made in the French Riviera, the Balearic Islands of Spain, and the shores of Aruba and Costa Rica. The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection's chief executive officer, Douglas Prothero, said: “Every element of the luxury yachting experience was considered when designing and creating Evrima, and we are excited to deliver unforgettable journeys for both long-time cruisers and those who are new to the industry.”

Virgin Atlantic will join SkyTeam

10th Oct 2022 0

In order to improve the alliance's transatlantic network and services to and from Heathrow and Manchester Airport, Virgin Atlantic will join SkyTeam as the first and only carrier from the United Kingdom. Customers of Virgin Atlantic will enjoy a consistent, seamless customer experience at more than 1,000 international locations. Additionally, they will gain access to a network of more than 750 airport lounges spread across six continents and more possibilities to accrue and redeem points across member airlines. The airline's Flying Club members will benefit significantly from the moment they sign up thanks to an international extension of its loyalty program. Virgin Atlantic Gold Card members will become Elite Plus members, while Silver Card holders will be recognized as SkyTeam Elite Members. Benefits from this distinction include priority check-in, baggage handling, and boarding. The advantages will be available to Flying Club members as soon as Virgin Atlantic officially joins SkyTeam, which is anticipated in early 2023. The success of Virgin Atlantic's transatlantic joint venture collaboration with Delta Air Lines and Air France-KLM—both long-standing SkyTeam members—is strengthened by the airline's admission into the alliance. Along with current SkyTeam members Aeromexico and China Eastern, the four partners are co-located in Terminal 3 of London Heathrow to provide customers seamless airside transits and the quickest connections. Virgin Atlantic CEO Shai Weiss said: “At Virgin Atlantic we strive to create thoughtful experiences that feel different for our customers and SkyTeam shares that customer first ethos. 2022 marks the year Virgin Atlantic gets back to its best for our customers and people and joining SkyTeam is an important milestone. Our membership will allow us to enhance established relationships with our valued partners at Delta and Air France-KLM, as well as opening up opportunities to collaborate with new airlines. It will enable a seamless customer experience, with an expanded network and maximised loyalty benefits.” SkyTeam Chairman, Walter Cho said: “Virgin Atlantic is synonymous with innovation and excellent service, an iconic British airline with a global outlook that puts customers at the heart of its operations - like SkyTeam and its members - and we are delighted to welcome them into our alliance.” In collaboration with Delta and Air France-KLM, Virgin Atlantic offers flights to 12 locations across the USA, including New York, Los Angeles, Miami, and San Francisco. The airline introduced a brand-new service to Austin, Texas, in May, and starting in November, it will operate daily flights to Tampa, Florida. Along with operating a sizable Caribbean network, Virgin Atlantic also manages Antigua, Barbados, Jamaica, and The Bahamas. Additionally, Virgin Atlantic offers travel options to South Africa, Greater China, India, Israel, Nigeria, and Pakistan.

Dorchester to Debut a James Bond Inspired Bar in December

06th Oct 2022 0

As the first stage of an ongoing makeover comes to an end, The Dorchester plans to debut a new bar design inspired by James Bond in December. The hotel's "many links" with the movie franchise and its author, Ian Fleming, who stayed and dined at The Dorchester throughout his life until his passing in 1964, are said to be honored by the Vesper Bar. Bond awakens in a suite at The Dorchester on his 45th birthday in William Boyd's continuation of the James Bond series, "Solo." The Dorchester has held numerous press junkets for the films over the years and has welcomed all six James Bonds, 14 Bond Girls, four M's, and nine Bond villains as guests of the hotel. In the 1960s and 1970s, the production company for the James Bond films, EON, had an office at the hotel. Martin Brudnizki, a Swedish interior architect and product designer, created a bar in the area that originally housed The Bar at The Dorchester. The bar's top level, a cozy "snug," and a Palladium leaf ceiling from the 1930s are all design elements. Along with modern pieces by artists like Rosie Emmerson, who is reported to have been influenced by Cecil Beaton, the bar will also display a selection of the artist's work, including some of the original drawings and celebrity photography. A dedicated Park Lane entry and an outdoor terrace with views of Hyde Park are also possible thanks to a new layout. The cocktail menu, created by head bartender Lucia Montanelli, will feature both classic and creative drinks that are inspired by the hotel. Photo credit to : https://www.countryandtownhouse.com/

Aer Lingus to Begin Service Between Dublin and Cleveland

29th Sep 2022 0

Next summer, Aer Lingus will begin service between Dublin and Cleveland, with connections available from nine UK airports. When it launches on 19th May, the new four times weekly service, which will become the only direct European connection to the Ohio city, will be the carrier's fifteenth transatlantic route from Ireland. Heathrow, Gatwick, Manchester, Birmingham, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Bristol, Southampton, and Leeds Bradford will all offer connections for UK residents, with prices starting at £249 roundtrip per person. Customers from the UK can take advantage of US immigration pre-clearance, which enables them to enter the US as a domestic passenger. The new route will be operated by an Airbus A321neo, Aer Lingus' most environmentally friendly long-haul aircraft. Reid Moody, Aer Lingus’s chief strategy and planning officer, said: “This is a significant announcement for Aer Lingus as we deliver on our ambition to grow our transatlantic network. “The commencement of a new route, accompanied with further network connectivity, is an exciting milestone for the airline during a critical time of recovery for our business. “The new service to Cleveland not only provides a direct connection to Ireland but connections to over 20 popular European destinations via our Dublin hub.”

MSC Cruises Modified Covid-19 Rules and Standards

26th Sep 2022 0

For trips from the UK starting in the next month, MSC Cruises has modified its Covid-19 rules and standards. On 1st October, the term "necessary" for the full Covid-19 vaccination becomes "recommended." It will be advised but not necessary for all fully immunized travelers showing a valid vaccination certificate to test prior to boarding. Unvaccinated passengers must still undergo a PCR or Antigen test within 48 hours of the ship's departure. Customers are further reminded by MSC Cruises that although Covid-19 insurance is not required, it is highly advised. Other embarkation ports, including those in the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, and the Caribbean, have also been subject to modifications to the Covid-19 travel restrictions.

Abercrombie & Kent Launch a 24-Day Private Jet Tour

22nd Sep 2022 0

A group of Off Grid Adventures has been developed by Abercrombie & Kent, including an international private jet journey with the company's founder Geoffrey Kent. In October 2022, a 24-day private jet tour will leave for various locations Kent will be visiting for the first time. Along with visiting Ephesus, a special temple supper in Hanoi, and a meeting with the monarch and elders of Porto Novo, the capital of Benin, he will travel with the group. A 757 private jet that has been chartered for the journey will include first class, fully lie-flat seats. In 1962, Kent established A&K in Africa using an ex-Army refrigerated van under the guiding principle: “Off-the-beaten-track safaris”. The 22-day Africa: Across a Continent by Private Jet tour, which departs in September 2023, is one of the other Off Grid Adventures. Some of the highlights are sleeping beneath the stars in the Sahara Desert, witnessing mountain gorillas in Rwanda, traveling to Egypt, and seeing the Serengeti grasslands. According to a spokeswoman, A&K takes great satisfaction in only hiring the best tour operators and local experts, from polar explorers to African rangers, who guarantee the best experiences possible in every location. Any trip with A&K is guaranteed to run smoothly and even surpass expectations thanks to insider access, extensive local knowledge, and a little black book of contacts. The collection also has an 11-night family glamping trip in Argentina, where visitors stay in eco-friendly pop-up tents created especially for their group's needs. A Maasai guide will lead guests on a walking safari into the Loita Hills at the fringe of the Great Rift Valley during their six-night journey to Kenya. Following historic elephant tracks while learning about the Maasai culture and the surrounding fauna, they will explore the native woods of the Forest of the Lost Child. The Yacht Kaori: Alaska's Inside Passage offers seafaring excursions where guests board a specially leased, crewed luxury schooner to cruise across the Inside Passage.

Ponant No Longer Requires Passengers a Negative Covid-19 Test

15th Sep 2022 0

Prior to embarkation, Ponant no longer requires passengers to show documentation of a negative Covid-19 test. In order to board, passengers must show confirmation of complete immunization (including a booster shot) or proof of two immunizations, provided the second was given within nine months of the date of departure. The same is true for mask use, which is still "strongly recommended" both onboard and ashore but is no longer required for passengers to use. Additionally, they may provide proof of a prior infection or one vaccination shot that was given more than two weeks before to the boarding and no more than four months prior to the boarding. A test will only be required if local authorities say so. The test will be available for guests to take onboard. The same is true for mask use, which is still "strongly recommended" both onboard and ashore but is no longer required for passengers to use. Depending on the diagnosis of the ship's doctor on the danger of infection, the quarantine procedures may be lowered in the event that a Covid case is discovered onboard. The ship's captain may need to reintroduce more stringent procedures, such as tests, mask wear, and quarantine if the risk on board were to rise.

Fiji Loosens Covid Entry Requirement for Vaccinated Travellers

10th Sep 2022 0

Fiji has loosened its Covid regulations for immunized foreign newcomers. The requirement to pre-book and perform the Covid-19 test upon arrival in Fiji has been eliminated for travelers aged 16 and older who have received two vaccinations. Unvaccinated travelers are still not allowed to enter, though. The adjustments have been updated on Fiji Travel's website. It reads: "Fiji offers quarantine free travel to fully vaccinated travellers from all over the world. “We’ve simplified out entry requirements further to make it even easier to plan a holiday here. “Simply show evidence of the following at check-in before your departure flight: proof of full vaccination for all travellers aged 16 years and over, and travel insurance.” According to the website of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office: "Persons arriving in Fiji no longer require a pre-booked Covid-19 test. “All visitors to Fiji must be fully vaccinated, this includes Fijian citizens.”

Azamara to Drop Covid Vaccine Requirement by December

06th Sep 2022 0

Azamara has said that starting on 1st December 2022, it will no longer require Covid-19 vaccinations. Unless local laws require passengers to be fully clothed, the rule change applies to all Caribbean and European sailings. It would, the line stated, “continue to encourage all guests departing from any port to get tested at leisure prior to travel to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable travel experience”. Azamara removed the necessity for embarkation testing on 25th July but said that testing would still be done on ships as needed. Carol Cabezas, the president, said: “The safety of our guests and crew is our top priority and we have continued to closely monitor the evolving global situation. “Azamara continues to implement the highest safety measures in accordance with the local health authorities and the current positive direction of the travel industry. “We look forward to many being able to sail with us for the immersive cruising experience that we are known for and explore the wonderful destinations the Azamara way.” According to Azamara, crew members will continue to wear face coverings and have received all necessary vaccinations.

British Airways to Restart Gatwick - Las Vegas Direct Flights

01st Sep 2022 0

British Airways will resume direct service between Gatwick and Las Vegas, next year. From 26th March 2023 to 28th October 2023, BA will fly the route three times each week on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. Tickets for the service are already on sale. Flights heading out will leave Gatwick at 11 am and land in Las Vegas at 1:50 pm. Return flights leave Las Vegas at 3:40 p.m. and land at Gatwick at 9:40 a.m. (+1). Economy World Traveller prices start at £426 per person. It follows a month in which the US metropolis welcomed over 3.5 million visitors, the highest monthly total since the outbreak began in July. With Heathrow serving as the current departure point for all direct flights to Las Vegas, the route provides travelers with an additional choice for getting to Sin City.

Finnair and Qatar Airways Codeshare to Open more Flights from Doha to Europe

30th Aug 2022 0

The Oneworld partners believe that the new "long-term strategic partnership" between Finnair and Qatar Airways will help Doha's ambitions to become the alliance's primary hub. Between November and December, Finnair intends to begin daily flights from and to Doha (Hamad International) via Helsinki, Stockholm, Copenhagen, and one additional, as of yet unidentified European city. A "complete codeshare arrangement" between the two airlines, encompassing joint passenger and cargo capacity, will enable the flights. Travelers will be able to take advantage of seamless connections onto Qatar's global network, which includes about 100 destinations, through Doha thanks to the codeshare. Using Airbus A330 aircraft with the airline's new long-haul cabin, which offers Air Lounge business-class seats, a new premium economy class, and refresh economy class, Finnair will fly the routes. The cooperation will lay the groundwork for "future expansion" of services between Nordic markets and the Middle East, according to Akbar Al Bakar, group chief executive of Qatar Airways. Al Bakar said, "Soon, Doha will be the oneworld hub bringing more airline partners together than ever before. With this codeshare agreement, travellers from the Nordics will continue to have excellent connectivity to Doha with Finnair and onwards with Qatar Airways to attractive leisure and key business destinations across Asia, Africa, Australasia and the Middle East.” Topi Manner, Finnair chief executive, also said: "The role of Doha as an international hub is growing, and Qatar Airways has extensive connections from Doha."  

Ryanair Offers 1 Million Plus Seats to its 2022–2023 Winter Program

24th Aug 2022 0

In an effort to take advantage of British Airways' plan to slash more than 10,000 winter flights at Heathrow, Ryanair will offer more than one million additional tickets to its 2022–2023 winter schedule. The changes, which would primarily affect short-haul flights to and from Heathrow between late October and March, were disclosed by BA on Monday (22nd August). According to Ryanair, the schedule reductions at Heathrow this winter amounted to almost 8% of BA's whole planned timetable. Heathrow decided to extend its current daily capacity cap of 100,000 passengers until October 29th, according to flag carrier BA. According to Ryanair, the extra capacity would include flights to and from 20 airports in the UK, increasing the company's full-year traffic from the projected 165 million passengers to more than 166.5 million. The low-cost airline emphasized that it places a special emphasis on winter sun and city break flights to Spain, Italy, Portugal, Morocco, Greece, and France. As a result, according to Ryanair CEO Michael O'Leary, the airline will run its busiest winter schedule ever.

Travelex Opens a Click-and-Collect ATM Service at T5 London Heathrow Airport

20th Aug 2022 0

Customers can now pre-order foreign currency online before picking it up contact-free at an airport ATM thanks to Travelex's click-and-collect ATM service, which was just introduced in Terminal 5 at London Heathrow Airport. You place the purchase online at Travelex, and then you pick up the money at an ATM. You accomplish this utilizing both the equipment and your mobile device. The benefit, in addition to speed, is that it is always open, which is perfect for an early morning departure. With other currencies and additional ATMs planned for Heathrow, you can withdraw up to US$800 or €800 using the click-and-collect ATM. Prior to releasing at other airports, Travelex will also introduce the service at Australia's Brisbane Airport.

Fred Olsen to Give Customers £100 Onboard Spending Money

16th Aug 2022 0

For sailings in the late summer, fall, and winter that are booked this week, Fred Olsen will give customers £100 in onboard spending money. Along with itineraries in Norway, Canada, and Scandinavia, the program includes voyages to Morocco, Greece, the Adriatic, and the Canary Islands. As part of the promotion, which honors the anniversary of the line's new flagship Bolette setting sail, visitors who reserve a specific trip between August 16 and 23 and depart from Liverpool, Dover, Tilbury, Rosyth, or Southampton will receive up to £100 per person to spend onboard. Jackie Martin, the company's director of marketing and sales, said: "We are so proud to be celebrating Bolette’s first year in service with us, and what better way to mark it than by shining a spotlight on some of the fantastic sailings we have on offer."

The Ritz-Carlton New York, NoMad Opening

11th Aug 2022 0

The opening of The Ritz-Carlton New York, NoMad has been announced by The Ritz-Carlton, a division of Marriott Bonvoy®. At 500 feet, the hotel is among the tallest structures in the NoMad neighborhood. The NoMad district, which is located north of Madison Park, is home to several boutiques, nightclubs, and eateries as well as an increasing number of five-star hotels and residential complexes. 19 suites are among the 250 guestrooms in the hotel, and there are also 16 one- and two-bedroom penthouse homes. The guestrooms' unique furniture and neutral color scheme are inspired by residential-style living. The 2,100-square-foot Ritz-Carlton Suite, which is on the hotel's 37th floor, has a private fitness room with a Peloton® bike, separate living and dining rooms, a media room, and a 194-square-foot walk-in closet, and a service entry. It also has stunning views of Manhattan. All accommodations include Diptyque bathroom items with the fig tree-inspired Philosykos fragrance. Chef José Andrés, a prominent chef with a Michelin star, is in charge of the hotel's food and beverage partnership. The ground-floor restaurant Zaytinya, named after the Turkish word for olive oil, serves mezze and inventive drinks that are influenced by Turkish, Greek, and Lebanese cuisine. The hotel's rooftop is where Nubeluz is situated. It offers panoramic 270-degree views of Manhattan, a large selection of classic and specialty cocktails, light fare, and a variety of Tablas where visitors can assemble boards of jamon, queso, and Spanish charcuterie. The Lobby Lounge and Bar is a multipurpose space on the first level of The Ritz-Carlton New York, NoMad, where visitors can enjoy a morning pastry and coffee, an afternoon glass of champagne, or a nightcap in the evening. In the latter half of 2022, The Bazaar by José Andrés will open in New York. This upscale, avant-garde dining establishment is destined to become a must-visit place. e. Access to the distinctive Ritz-Carlton Club Lounge is available to guests staying on the Club Level. A 6,800 square-foot Ritz-Carlton Spa and Fitness Center with eight treatment rooms, a separate sauna, and a steam room is another amenity offered by the hotel. The Method, a distinctive facial from the high-end skincare line Augustinus Bader, will be available at The Ritz-Carlton Spa. The Method offers customized service with the use of unique aromas and oils inspired by the New York Flower District.

JetBlue to Operate Five Daily Flights Between UK and US

06th Aug 2022 0

By October, JetBlue will operate five daily flights between the UK and the US, expanding its transatlantic network to include Boston and Boston. The US low-cost airline has expanded its flights from Heathrow and Gatwick to New York JFK by adding a non-stop Gatwick-Boston service. The carrier also intends to increase its Heathrow to Boston connections starting on 20th September and its Gatwick to New York connections starting on 29th October. On its transatlantic operations, JetBlue is using single-aisle Airbus A321LR aircraft with 24 Mint suites and 114 economy seats. On flights from the UK to the US, it claims to be the only airline to provide limitless, free high-speed wi-fi. Executive chief Robin Hayes said: “Our London service from New York has been an incredible success and we are thrilled to finally bring this highly anticipated service to our Boston customers, a route that has long suffered from high fares by legacy carriers.  “As Boston’s largest carrier, adding this nonstop service to Gatwick will only make us more relevant in our New England focus city and introduce JetBlue to a largely unserved market.” Martha Sheridan, president and CEO of the Greater Boston Convention & Visitors Bureau, added: “We are thrilled that JetBlue is launching nonstop service between London and Boston. Visitors from the United Kingdom represent our top overseas source market. “Rebuilding this segment will be critical to the overall recovery of our visitor economy. We share many historical and cultural bonds with the UK and are so excited that JetBlue is investing in this route, which will surely be a great success.” Jonathan Pollard, the chief commercial officer at Gatwick, said: “The addition of JetBlue’s Boston route is fantastic news for passengers and businesses across London and the south-east.  “Boston is not only a wonderful city to visit on holiday – playing a key role in American history – but is renowned as a thriving centre for scientific research, innovation and technology. The wider state of Massachusetts is also a world leader in higher education, with Harvard University one of several top institutions. “With Gatwick’s direct train links to Cambridge – also known for its top university and as a hub for tech and bioscience industries – as well as more local businesses, this new connection will provide great opportunities for the whole region and beyond.”

W Costa Navarino to Debut in August

02nd Aug 2022 0

The W Costa Navarino will debut in August, marking the entry of W Hotels Worldwide into Greece. The new 13-hectare beachfront property will only be available to adults and children over the age of 12 and is located in the Navarino Waterfront resort region, which is 40 minutes by car from Kalamata International Airport. The Fabulous Infinity Swim Up Rooms at The W Costa Navarino, which provide direct access to one of the swimming pools, and the Spectacular Panorama Rooms, which promise mesmerizing views, are among the accommodations available when the hotel opens its doors on 11th August. The Wow Beachfront Infinity Villas provide direct beach access, an outside private balcony, and a pool. The property was built by Greek architects Tombazis and Associates, who included traditional architectural aspects from the area while utilizing natural materials including stone, wood, and reed. MKV Design, a London-based company, was in charge of the neutral-colored guest rooms' interiors. One dining choice is Platia, the hotel's version of a neighborhood Greek deli food market that serves food and beverages all day. It was created by K-Studio Architects and Tombazis of Athens, with interior design by MKV Design. The Between bar features live DJ performances, beverages, and a supper menu that is primarily raw. It is intended to be visited at twilight. Interior Design Laboratorium in Athens produced the interiors. Additionally, there is the brand's iconic W Lounge, which is open 24/7 and will serve beverages while live music and DJs from around the world and Greece provide the background music. The dining and late-night Mediterranean beach club Parelia, which views out into the Bay of Navarino's long sandy shore, will also feature local and foreign DJs. Visitors can also learn about the regional cuisine and beverages by taking part in traditional village cooking courses and local wine and olive oil tastings. The property's Away Spa, which offers treatments, a gym, and a 25-meter pool, is the place to go if you want to unwind. There are beach bootcamp courses, splash FIT, beach power Pilates, meditation, and yoga for those who want something more physically active. Sporty tourists can also go bicycling, hiking, sailing, and rock climbing, and there will be a new water sports facility in 2023. The portfolio of 30 brands owned by Marriott Bonvoy includes over 60 W Hotels worldwide.

Star Clippers Announces More Ports for 2024 Mediterranean Voyages

28th Jul 2022 0

Three more ports of call for Star Clippers' 2024 Mediterranean voyages have been announced, including new stops in Tuscany and the Greek islands of Milos and Sifnos. The Aegean island of Milos will be one of the first new ports of call added to Star Clippers' sailing schedule since 2019 on an 11-night journey to the Suez Canal in June 2024 that also includes landings on the Greek islands of Rhodes, Santorini, and Hydra. Star Flyer will also make regular stops at Sorrento in Italy and Katakolon and Mykonos in Greece on a brand-new 14-night route that will run from the Italian capital Rome to the Greek capital Athens in September 2024. The cruise line's three-night sample sailings on board Royal Clipper, which see the largest and only five-masted, full-rigged sailing ship cruise in and out of Rome, now include the little Tuscan village of Porto Ercole. For a three-night trip to Rome on board Royal Clipper, starting on June 19, 2024, cruise-only fares begin at £782.

Air France Menu Prepared by Michelin Star Chef

25th Jul 2022 0

Between July and October, passengers traveling in Air France's long-haul La Premiere and Business cabins can savour meals prepared by two Michelin-starred chefs. On a few departures from Paris, the airline will provide dishes created with an emphasis on sustainable and responsible catering by Michel Roth and Anne-Sophie Pic. A selection of Roth's meals will be given to passengers in the La Premiere cabin. Roth has received two Michelin stars in addition to accolades like the Bocuse d'or and Meilleur Ouvrier de France. His menu includes a starter of the lobster medallion, green asparagus, and raspberry vinaigrette as well as an appetizer of Sturia caviar served with a pancake with smoked fish cream. Verbena veal, vegetable and morel mushrooms, and fillet of brill in a shellfish sauce are among the eight main courses. They are all served with green vegetables and mussels. The triple-Michelin starred chef, who has previously worked with Air France, will present her food in the long-haul business cabin. She serves eight different meals, including chicken with tonka bean sauce, polenta with mushrooms, and braised beef with potato mousseline, plum chutney, and tarragon breadcrumbs. By the end of 2022, all of the airline's flights departing from Paris will exclusively serve sustainably caught fish along with French beef, dairy products, and eggs. This commitment to sustainable catering has been emphasised by the airline. There will always be a vegetarian option, and all food will be made in France. Wherever feasible, produce will be local and in season, and sustainable farming will be promoted. All of the food on the menus for children and infants will be grown organically. The airline will let customers pre-select their hot meal in the business class cabin to help decrease food waste, and it wants to recycle or do away with 90 percent of single-use plastic on board its planes by early 2023. Certain objects are donated to charities when they can no longer be used on board.

Celestyal Cruises to Introduce "No-Frills" Rates in the UK

15th Jul 2022 0

Greek cruise line Celestyal Cruises will test "no-frills" rates in the UK, with three nights in the Aegean. With the cruise-only freedom prices, guests can add extras like drink packages and excursions. All-inclusive pricing upgrades, which start at £50 and include two excursions and drinks, are also available. The freedom rates are available until 31st August for any 2022 departures that were booked in the UK. They come with the opportunity to upgrade and include lodging, meals, entertainment, taxes, and tips on board. Prices range from £199 per person for three nights to £1,357 per person for an 18-night Christmas and New Year's voyage. Leslie Peden, chief commercial officer, said: “Our new freedom fare not only offers an even more affordable Greek island getaway, but it provides guests with greater freedom of choice when it comes to what they want from their holiday.  “We are piloting the freedom fare in the UK and, if it proves popular, which I’m sure it will, the aim is to roll it out across all our markets by the end of the year.”

Shearings Expands its 2023 Schedule

12th Jul 2022 0

Shearings has expanded its 2023 schedule, which now includes more than 100 UK getaways, by an additional 38 vacations. The escorted coach operator will offer excursions based at hotels in Southend-on-Sea, Kingston-Upon-Hull, and Darlington for the first time. Additional new locations will shortly be announced. Tours that include lodging, breakfast, dinner, and excursions start at £239. Other new trip locations include Rochester, the Blandford Forum, the Isle of Skye, and Tobermory. The Weymouth, Subtropical Abbotsbury and Dorset Charms tour now offers a new optional excursion to Blandford Forum, while the Isle of Skye trip includes a day-long Scottish Highlands tour. The coach company stated that it would provide information on further fresh breaks "in the coming weeks." Ashley Dellow,  Leger Shearings Group’s head of retail sales said: “It seems the British public can’t get enough of their UK holidays. “The overseas travel restrictions certainly created a taste for them and that shows no sign of slowing down. “Our product team has been very busy creating new UK tours, and travel agents will find lots of new inspiration to sell to even their most avid repeat coach holiday fans.”

Anantara Opens Its Second Establishment in Portugal by 2024

06th Jul 2022 0

The Anantara Royal Vila Vicosa, located in a former monastery in the Alentejo region, will become Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas' second establishment in Portugal in 2024. The hotel will have 16 villas, 10 suites, 50 guest rooms, an indoor pool, and both outdoor and indoor swimming pools. Three restaurants, including a private fine dining room and a wine cellar, will be available for guests to eat at. The Anantara Spa, a fitness center, and three conference rooms will also be available as amenities. A former 15th-century monastery will house the five-star Anantara Royal Vila Vicosa, and design firm Broadway Malyan has been entrusted with preserving the legacy of the current building and respecting its history and heritage. Anantara made its debut in Europe in 2017 with the opening of Anantara Vilamoura Algarve Resort; its most recent addition in southern Portugal is a part of the brand's growth throughout the continent. With further openings scheduled for later this year in Asia, the Middle East, and Europe, it presently boasts a portfolio of more than 40 international hotels. Anantara and the Portuguese Group Investaureum have partnered to create the Anantara Royal Vila Vicosa. Dillip Rajakarier, group CEO of Minor International and CEO of Minor Hotels, the organization that owns Anantara, stated: "We are delighted to continue the expansion of our luxury Anantara brand in Portugal in the historic town of Vila Vicosa." “Located in Alentejo, an increasingly sought-after tourist destination, the upcoming Anantara Royal Vila Vicosa Resort promises unforgettable experiences that characterise the brand.”

Jumeirah Group Opens its First Resort in Oman

02nd Jul 2022 0

The debut of Jumeirah Group's first resort in Oman has increased the company's presence in the Middle East. Jumeirah Muscat Bay is situated 15 minutes from the Muscat capital in the quiet cove of Bandar Jissah, nestled between the Hajar mountains and the Gulf of Oman. The hotel has 206 rooms and suites, all of which have ocean views. Families can choose connecting rooms. Additionally, there are five "summerhouses" with two or four beds each, a Sanctuary Villa, and a private beach. Each of these accommodations has its own private pool and butler service. There are five places to eat, including the oceanfront, multi-cuisine restaurant Peridot, the afternoon tea lounge Tarini, the poolside restaurant Zuka, the bar and terrace Anzo, and the trademark restaurant Brezza, which will offer seafood in sharing-style and debut in September. The hotel will also house the first two-floor Talise Spa in Oman, which will have 10 treatment rooms, a hammam, a sauna, a steam room, and a variety of therapeutic treatments that can be customized for each client's needs. A modern fitness center, yoga studio, tennis court, and a diving and watersports center with Padi certification are also available to guests. Younger visitors can participate in a kids' club and a variety of sports, such as sailing and snorkeling with turtles, as well as trekking and biking through the Hajar mountains. José Silva, the executive chef at Jumeirah, said: “Oman is a popular destination for those looking to combine nature and wellness with cultural interest. At Jumeirah Muscat Bay, we have focused on taking cues from the natural landscape and its restorative energy and have brought this to life through design and architecture and in keeping with the hallmarks of Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts, our innovative dining concepts, signature service and exceptional experiences are well represented throughout this resort. "As we continue to expand our portfolio, we are delighted to open the doors to this beautiful resort and bring our brand promise of Stay Different, for the first time to Oman.” To mark its debut, the hotel is offering a special opening deal. For reservations made before September 30, 2022, guests will receive up to 20% off on stays of four nights or longer, a complimentary stay for one child under the age of 11 sharing a room with an adult, free access to the kids' club for younger guests, and $100 in resort credits that can be used for food, drinks, or spa treatments.

Marella Cruises Offers Canada Voyages for Winter 2023 and 2024

29th Jun 2022 0

For the first time, Marella Cruises will offer trips to Canada as part of its winter 2023/2024 schedule onboard Marella Discovery. Along with the line's whole winter 2023 schedule, a new 14-night East Coast Adventure sailing that leaves Port Canaveral in October 2023 and makes port calls in Newport, Bar Harbor, Saint John, Sydney, Halifax, and Boston will go on sale on 21st July. A 12-night Stateside Discovery voyage will also be available from Discovery, starting from Port Canaveral and making stops in Miami, New Orleans, the Dominican Republic, and Barbados. The line's newest vessel, Marella Voyager, will provide three Caribbean itineraries from Barbados in the winter of 2023, including an eight-night voyage to the Paradise Islands in November 2023 that makes port stops in Dominica, Antigua, Tortola, Saint Maarten, and Saint Kitts. Managing director of cruise for Marella parent Tui UK and Ireland, Chris Hackney, said: “We’re delighted to present an exciting evolution of our fleet in Marella Voyager. “She really takes things to a new level, building on our current ships’ best features, while adding new venues that we know our customers will be excited to try. “We understand what guests want from their cruise and what they love about our existing ships, so by ensuring we keep some Marella Cruises favourites as well as adding a different flavour to Marella Voyager, we will be providing more choice for our loyal customers and providing an exciting introduction to the brand for new customers.”

Havila Capella Resume Operations Around the Norwegian Coast

24th Jun 2022 0

Havila Capella will resume operations around the Norwegian coast on 28th June after being left without insurance due to an ongoing legal dispute over the ship's Russian financing. Due to the EU's penalties against the leasing business GTLK Asia, the insurance companies terminated their contracts on the ship on 12th April. As a result, the ship has remained parked in Bergen ever since. In an effort to compel a change in ownership of the Havila Capella, Havila has been working on strategies to acquire control of the ship. Among other things, the business has filed a petition with the High Court of England & Wales in London. At the same time, the shipping business requested interim detention and compelled usage of the Havila Capella by filing a petition with the Hordaland District Court on 16th June. The court upheld the company's motion on Monday, 20th June. Havila Voyages' chief executive, Bent Martini, stated: "Through the ruling from Hordaland District Court, we have been given the role of principal administrator of Havila Capella, with all the rights that a registered owner has. "Over the next few days, we will seek to conclude the hull insurance for the ship, meaning Havila Capella can resume operations from 28 June, when she will embark on her next voyage along the Norwegian coast. "It has been important for us to secure our values, and not least our greatest resource – our employees. We have always believed that we would find a solution and have chosen to keep everyone at work. We are pleased with that decision now."  

Norwegian Cruise Line Offers Canary Islands Cruises from Europe on Norwegian Sun

21st Jun 2022 0

This winter, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) will offer Canary Islands cruises from Europe on Norwegian Sun. The 1,936-passenger ship will reposition from Miami to Lisbon on a 22-day journey before beginning the itinerary on 21st November. Cruises will last 10 to 14 days and will leave from embarkation points in Lisbon, Portugal, Malaga, Spain, and Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain. This winter marks the first time the line has offered itineraries with Canary Islands ports of call since 2017. The 11-day Europe: Spain, Portugal, and Gibraltar sailing, which departs from Granada on 9th December 2022. Cadiz, Spain; Funchal, Portugal; and Santa Cruz de Tenerife are among the ports of call. Cruises have no more than two days at sea and an average of 12 hours in port, with late-night stays in Lisbon, Portugal; Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain; and Casablanca, Morocco. Along with Sun's winter sailings, nine NCL ships will be sailing in Europe this summer. Sun is currently operating Alaska voyages out of Seattle. According to President Harry Sommer: “The Canaries have always been a draw for travellers from all over the globe and now more so when seeking some much-needed winter sun. “Norwegian Sun’s new itineraries provide for a unique combination of the Canary Islands with ports in Portugal, mainland Spain as well as Morocco, offering our guests an all-year Europe season with nine ships to make the most of their travel this year.”

Aurora Expeditions Announced its 2023-24 Program

14th Jun 2022 0

Aurora Expeditions has announced its Antarctica program for 2023-24, as well as a selection of Arctic and British Isles voyages for 2023. There are six new itineraries to choose from, including an Antarctic Explorer Express voyage, a Complete Northwest Passage voyage, a 15-day Antarctic Peninsula in Depth voyage, and a South Georgia & Antarctic Odyssey featuring the South Sandwich Islands. The cruise line is offering up to a 25% early-bird discount on voyages. A nine-day Antarctic Explorer Express trip has been designed for passengers looking for a "briefer adventure" to the Antarctic Peninsula. The line has released an 18-day Circle and Weddell sailing for passengers who want to cross the Antarctic Circle and sail into the Weddell Sea. The 30-day Complete Northwest Passage sailing from Toronto, Canada, to Anchorage, US. The itinerary includes sailing from West Greenland to Nome, Alaska, along the entire length of the Northwest Passage. The 16-day Falkland-Malvinas and Antarctic Peninsula cruise departs on 22nd October 2023. The 17-day Ireland and Scotland Discovery sailing departs Dublin on 17th May 2023. Connemara, Inishmore, and Mullaghmore, all in Ireland, and the Isle of Noss and Bass Rock, both in Scotland, are among the ports of call. The line's chief marketing officer, Hayley Peacock-Gower, stated: “Alongside our well-loved classic itineraries, we have continued to innovate and offer new and varied ways for our expeditioners to discover. “Whether it be via our numerous fly-sail options, voyages ranging from nine to 24 days, or the introduction of new itinerary combinations that are not offered by other operators in the market. “In the Arctic and British Isles, Aurora Expeditions’ expeditioners are also being given a wealth of new wild and remote voyages to choose from.”

Emerald Cruises Announces Three New River and Yacht Itineraries for 2023

08th Jun 2022 0

Emerald Cruises has announced three new river and yacht itineraries for 2023, which will include voyages through Southeast Asia and the Middle East. The additions come as the line reports increased demand for next year's bookings. The new sailings include the 12-day Majestic Mekong, an eight-day Mekong river cruise, and a tuk-tuk tour of the streets of Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Phnom Penh, Tan Chau, Long Khanh Island, Long An, My An Hung, Sa Dec, Cai Be, and Ho Chi Minh City are among the stops on the 12-day journey. Prices start at £2,695 per person departing on the Emerald Harmony on 24th August 2023. Guests on the 11-day Grand Danube can enjoy guided bike tours with views of the Austrian Danube, Vienna's imperial palaces, Budapest's bathhouses, and a new port of call in Weissenkirchen. Passau, Linz, Weissenkirchen, Bratislava, Budapest, Novi Sad, and Belgrade are all stops on the river cruise. Prices start at £2,945 per person and depart on the 28th of March on the Emerald Star.

British Airways Expands US Route Network

05th Jun 2022 0

This summer, British Airways is expanding its US route network, increasing the number of direct US routes to London to 26. Portland, Oregon, has become the newest addition to the British Airways route map, providing the city with its only direct route to the United Kingdom. It's been a long time coming, and Portland has faced many challenges as a result of the pandemic. Hopefully, it is returning to normalcy, as it has always been one of my favorite US cities. The new route to Portland will run five days a week, on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner will fly the Portland route. If you want to use your Avios, there should be plenty of availability starting in December. British Airways’ Director of Networks and Alliances, Neil Chernoff said: “This summer British Airways will be flying from 26 US cities to London and we’re very excited to be adding Portland to our list of transatlantic destinations. Not only are we the only airline to offer direct flights from Portland to London, but this new route also opens a wide variety of connections for our customers. Through Alaska Airlines, our oneworld partner, British Airways will offer codeshare connections to several destinations operated by Alaska Airlines from Portland.” British Airways also reintroduces a direct flight from Pittsburgh to London. It is still the only airline that provides a direct flight from Philadelphia to London. The airline will resume a year-round four-per-week service – Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday. This will be a B787-8 as well. To support the return of business travel, the airline will launch a new daytime flight from Newark Liberty International Airport to London Heathrow on June 6 – its third daily flight from Newark to London. Personally, I prefer daytime flights because you rarely get much sleep on overnight flights because the total flying time is frequently between 5-6 hours. Although it requires an early start, it significantly reduces jet lag as you return to the UK in the evening and hopefully get a good night's sleep. The daytime flight will depart from Newark at 7.55 a.m., making it a convenient option for those who want to spend an extra night in the New York area or arrive just in time for an evening in London. On 13th June, daily direct flights from San Jose, California, to London will resume, as will the return of A380 aircraft to more North American airports. Earlier this week, Chicago and Vancouver became the latest cities to welcome the Airbus 380. Meanwhile, on 1st July, Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport will welcome the A380 for the first time. The aircraft, which is British Airways' and the airline industry's largest, has 469 seats and offers a choice of First, Club World, World Traveller Plus, and World Traveller cabins.

W Hotels Expands in Italy with W Milan

31st May 2022 0

W Hotels is expanding in Italy, with plans to launch two new locations in Milan and Naples in 2024. The Marriott-owned brand has secured agreements to open W Milan – Duomo and W Naples, joining the recently launched W Rome and the upcoming W Florence, which will open in the Tuscan city next year. The W Milan – Duomo will be located in a city center building that was previously a bank in the 1920s. The hotel will have 166 rooms and 36 suites, including the brand's take on a presidential suite, the Extreme Wow Suite. A rooftop bar and restaurant with outdoor terraces offering panoramic views of Milan will be among the attractions. A spa with an indoor pool and a workout center will also be available. Meanwhile, W Naples will be housed in a historic structure on Piazza del Municipio. The hotel will include 78 rooms, 17 suites, and some will have own patios. A lounge, restaurant, and fitness center will be available in the public sections. Marriott International's senior director of development in Italy, Gianleo Bosticco, stated: “The spirited cities of Milan and Naples have long been a destination of choice for global jet setters, and we’re delighted to answer to the growing demand for luxury lifestyle hotels with these two significant signings.” In Photo: W Barcelona

Saudia Soon to Operate from London to Neom Megacity

27th May 2022 0

London is about to gain air link to a $500 billion megacity being built on the Red Sea in Saudi Arabia. Saudia will begin flying from Neom Bay Airport to Dubai in June, becoming the destination's first commercial airline. The weekly service to Dubai is set to begin at the end of next month, with London following "soon thereafter." To promote the brand, aircraft traveling to the specified destinations will be outfitted with a joint Neom-Saudia livery. Neom, which means "new future," is located in north-west Saudi Arabia at the crossroads of three continents, with 40 percent of the world stated to be reachable in four hours. Previously, the nearest commercial airport to the megacity was in the Egyptian Red Sea resort of Sharm El Sheikh. Since 2019, charter flights have begun serving Neom Bay airport, with travel times of roughly two hours from the Saudi capital of Riyadh. Millions of people are projected to relocate to Neom by 2030, with tourism developments set to begin operations in 2024. According to Saudia Director General, Ibrahim Al-Omar: “This partnership is in line with Saudia’s ambition to support Saudi Vision 2030 by increasing passenger traffic domestically and regionally, as well as expanding our connections to global cities. “As Neom continues to progress, demand for travel to there is only increasing, making it a natural addition to our list of destinations.” Nadhmi Al-Nasr, CEO of Neom, added: “Neom Bay airport is a key enabler of Neom’s development, facilitating efficient access for residents and business partners, and drastically improving the ease with which Neom can connect with people from all over the world. “This is an exciting step in our journey to provide the best possible air connectivity to Neom and a signal of our rapid growth.”

Royal Caribbean Launches Charter from Belfast for Wonder of the Seas Clients

20th May 2022 0

After previously highlighting a lack of regional aircraft connectivity for the ship's Barcelona sailings, Royal Caribbean is launching a weekly British Airways charter from Belfast City airport for clients sailing on Wonder of the Seas this summer. Customers who book a cruise on the world's largest ship, which debuted in Europe earlier this month, will be able to book direct flights from Belfast City to Barcelona from 3rd July to 28th September. The charter was revealed after Royal Caribbean's vice-president for Europe, Ben Bouldin, admitted that the line had greater availability than usual for the summer, due in part to a lack of capacity at several of its regional bases. The company expects that the charter would make passengers' vacations "smoother from the outset." Jennifer Callister, Royal Caribbean's head of Ireland sales, stated: “We’re always looking for ways to make the lives of our guests easier and that extends to the entire guest experience – not just the cruise. “By partnering with George Best Belfast City Airport, we hope to take one thing off our Irish guests’ minds this summer, so they can relax as they look forward to boarding Wonder of the Seas, the newest and most game-changing addition to our fleet.” Return flights from Belfast City Airport to Barcelona with Royal Caribbean start at £315 per adult. Previously, Bouldin told Travel Weekly that flight schedules and cost were difficult for the company. During trade exhibition sailings of the new Oasis-class ship, he stated: “It’s not easy as the airline schedules are not as rich and robust as they used to be, airline pricing is extremely difficult – even for these two trade sailings it’s been costly for people to get here – and that’s something we’re trying to manage. “There’s also just not enough capacity from some of our regional hubs that we have a lot customers from – particularly Scotland, Northern Ireland and Ireland. Aer Lingus are here but we’d like more from them. So there’s plenty still to go after.” Michelle Hatfield, director of corporate services at George Best Belfast City Airport, stated: “We are thrilled to partner with Royal Caribbean Cruises this summer to operate a weekly charter service direct to Barcelona.”

Israel to Lift Remaining Covid-19 Travel Restrictions

17th May 2022 0

Israel plans to lift the remaining Covid-19 travel restrictions on international immigrants in the next few days. The country's ministry of health declared on Tuesday (17th May) that the rules would be relaxed on Saturday (21st May). It means that international visitors will be permitted to enter the country without having to present proof of Covid-19 vaccine, recent recovery from infection, or a recent negative test. The Israel Government Tourist Office director in London, Sharon Ehrlich Bershadsky, stated: “This is the news we have been waiting for for more than two years. "It has been our highest priority to make the process of entering Israel the easiest it can be while responsibly looking after our passengers’ health and safety. “With Israel joining many other countries in dropping all Covid restrictions, I am hopeful the travel industry has now reached a crucial milestone in this post-pandemic world.” Arrivals must continue to provide evidence of negative PCR or antigen tests for Covid-19 when arriving by air, land, or sea until Saturday. This also applies to cruises departing from Israel. The Israeli Ministry of Health has also promised to continue publishing updates in the event that the recommendations change again. Visitors must still complete out a passenger entry declaration up to 48 hours before travel, just as they did before the outbreak.

Virgin to Open a New Luxury Hotel in Majorca

13th May 2022 0

Following the renovation of a historic finca in Majorca, a modest luxury hotel for Virgin Limited Edition will be built. The 28-room hotel will debut in summer 2023 on the Son Bunyola Estate in the Tramuntana section of the island. The finca will be built as part of an 810-acre estate located on a Unesco World Heritage Site, which currently includes three stand-alone luxury private villas run by Sir Richard Branson's hotel collection. The Son Bunyola Hotel will accept reservations later this year. The finca's development started in June with a historical reconstruction project focused on the existing buildings and structures, with traditional and local materials at the hotel's heart. There will be two restaurants, lounges, various outdoor dining terraces, and a swimming pool. Jon Brown, managing director of Virgin Limited Edition, said: “The northwest coast of Majorca has always been a very special place for Sir Richard Branson and Virgin Limited Edition. “We are absolutely thrilled to have the opportunity to restore this beautiful monument and honour its rich history, and look forward to welcoming another small luxury hotel to our portfolio – not least inviting guests across the globe to discover this unspoilt corner of the world. “Celebrating and preserving the heritage of this important Majorcan landmark has been at the very forefront of our restoration plans throughout. The finca has very much been designed to enhance the incredible natural surroundings it is blessed with. “This is of course combined with our commitment to sustainability, something which is ingrained in everything we do – from energy saving to rainwater harvesting and environmental protection.”

Emirates Introduces Full Premium Economy Service

09th May 2022 0

Flyers can expect another unique Emirates travel experience as the airline debuts its comprehensive Premium Economy offering onboard and on the ground, as well as the announcement that it will begin selling this highly sought-after category on 1st June, 2022. From 1st August, Emirates customers flying on popular A380 itineraries to London, Paris, Sydney, and Christchurch will have access to the new cabin class, which features sumptuous seats, extra legroom, and service that rivals many airlines' business offerings. Emirates is the region's only airline with a Premium Economy class. President of Emirates Airlines, Sir Tim Clark, said: “As with everything we do, Emirates Premium Economy will be exceptional in its class, with minute attention given to every aspect of the customer experience. Customers trading up from the Economy will be getting excellent value. “Since we first introduced our Premium Economy seats in January 2021, the positive response and demand have been tremendous. We currently have six A380s equipped with this cabin class, which limits our initial deployment, but our intention is to offer this experience to many more markets across our network. This November, we will begin our retrofit program to install Premium Economy on 67 A380s and 53 Boeing 777s. At the end of the program, Emirates will have 126 aircraft fitted out with Premium Economy cabins, as well as our latest interiors across other cabins. It is a major investment to ensure our customers continue to have the best experience in the sky.” Emirates Premium Economy is in a league of its own, providing an unrivaled distinctive experience. Customers can expect a designated Premium Economy check-in facility at Dubai International Airport, or they can use one of the many simple self-service check-in kiosks located throughout the terminal to avoid lines. Customers will sense the calm luxury of Emirates' Premium Economy cabin as soon as they board. The cabin's ambiance is defined by a wood panel finish comparable to Business Class, and each seat is designed to provide ideal comfort and support with 6-way adjustable headrests. The cream-colored leather seats are 19.5 inches wide, have a large pitch of up to 40 inches, and recline 8 inches into a comfortable cradle position with plenty of room to stretch out. It also has calves and footrests for added comfort, as well as numerous other thoughtful features including in-seat charging ports and a side cocktail table. Customers can relax under soft, sustainable blankets made from recycled plastic bottles, as well as nestle into the amply sized pillow, all of which are exclusive to Premium Economy. They can also replenish their supplies with the complimentary amenity kits, which come in recyclable, sustainable bags and feature things manufactured with recycled or sustainable materials. Customers will be greeted with a welcome cocktail served in excellent glassware, with components inspired by Business Class. A selection of large meals cooked with seasonal ingredients and regional influences will be served on chinaware with stainless steel cutlery wrapped in linen napkins throughout meal service. A variety of beverages will be available, including premium wines and a sparkling Chandon wine. After meals, liqueurs and chocolates are also available. On Emirates' award-winning ice, each seat has a 13.3" screen, one of the largest in its class, to experience the unrivaled choice of up to 5,000 channels of music, movies, TV, news, and other material. The Premium Economy cabin is placed at the front of the main deck on a four-class Emirates A380, with 56 seats configured in a 2-4-2 configuration. Up to 24 Premium Economy seats will be put in a designated cabin segment between Business and Economy on the Emirates Boeing 777.

Saga Announces its River Cruise Schedule for 2023

04th May 2022 0

Saga has announced its river cruise schedule for 2023, which includes three new Rhine and Danube itineraries. From 2023, both the Spirit of the Danube and Spirit of the Rhine will offer all-inclusive sailings, as well as a number of other booking incentives. Passengers who book back-to-back cruises in 2023 will receive a 10% discount, and a 25% early booking discount is also available. Before the deal expires, a number of cruises will be offered at a 25% discount, according to the line. The itineraries Golden Age of Art on the Rhine, Autumn Colors of the Danube, and Art of the Danube have all been added to the schedule for next year. The seven-night Golden Age of Art cruise on 8th May starts at £1,241, and includes excursions to galleries in Amsterdam, Utrecht, and The Hague. The lead-in pricing for the Spirit of the Danube's 10-night Autumn Colours of the Danube sailing on 11th November with stops in Budapest, Bratislava, and Vienna is £1,574. The Art of the Danube, which departs on October 27 and includes visits to Budapest's Hungarian National Gallery and Bratislava's City Gallery, costs £1,499. Charlie Dimmock, a gardening specialist, will go on a seven-night voyage on the Spirit of the Rhine on April 17. Prices begin at £1,649. A themed Gilbert and Sullivan cruise on the Rhine starts at £1,274 and includes live music performances. A number of dedicated accommodations for single travelers will be available on each trip in the program. Single passengers should "book early to ensure them since they are always quite popular," according to the line. Nigel Blanks, the company's CEO, stated: “We know our guests want an exceptional experience and real value for money so the river cruises will move to all-inclusive from 2023. “We’re introducing back-to-back itineraries with 10% off and discounts starting from 25% off in response to their feedback. “These are in addition to the complimentary chauffeur service, travel insurance and a range of included excursions we already offer.”

Cook's Club to Establish its Ninth Hotel in Ialysos, Rhodes

27th Apr 2022 0

Cook's Club, a former Thomas Cook trademark, will establish its ninth hotel in Ialysos, Rhodes, next month. The new hotel, which will open on May 1st, will be the brand's fourth in Greece, with a fifth set to follow soon after. The 83-room, adults-only hotel is located in the Ialysos district of northwest Rhodes and features bungalows, private pool suites, and some with their own own roof garden. Cantina, a restaurant with selected street-food flavors, and the Captain Cook Bar, which overlooks the pool area, will be part of Cook's Club Ialysos Rhodes. Christos Michalakis, owner of the Cook's Club Ialysos Rhodes, said: "In Cook’s Club we found just the right partner for the kind of hotel we wanted to create. "Cook’s Club Ialysos Rhodes is about meeting like-minded people, sharing experiences and celebrating the moment – just like the Cook’s Club brand ethos."

Wizz Air Announces Launching of Luton-Dubrovnik Service

22nd Apr 2022 0

Wizz Air has announced the opening of a new Luton-Dubrovnik four-times-weekly service this summer. From 4th July, four-times-weekly flights to the famed Dalmatian port city in Croatia will begin. Fares start at £26.99 and are currently on sale. Wizz Air UK managing director Marion Geoffroy said: “Dubrovnik is the perfect summer getaway, offering customers beautiful beaches, warm weather and friendly hospitality."

Major US Carriers Drops Mask Mandate

19th Apr 2022 0

After a Florida judge determined that a 14-month-old mask ban was unconstitutional, major US carriers have loosened rules mandating facial coverings on flights. Masks will no longer be required on domestic and some foreign flights, according to American Airlines, Delta, United, and Alaska Airlines. The deadline was extended until 3rd May by US health regulators last week, sparking industry complaints. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will no longer enforce the wearing of masks by travelers, despite the fact that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) continues to urge them. In a statement, the White House said: “Due to today’s court ruling, effective immediately, TSA will no longer enforce its security directives and emergency amendment requiring mask use on public transportation and transportation hubs. “TSA will also rescind the new security directives that were scheduled to take effect today (Tuesday). “CDC continues to recommend that people wear masks in indoor public transportation settings at this time.” The US Travel Association, which had been advocating for the elimination of the travel mask mandate, applauded the decision. Tori Emerson Barnes, executive vice president of public relations and policy, said: “The current decision to halt enforcement of the federal mask mandate effectively returns the choice of mask usage on planes and other forms of public transportation to travellers and travel industry workers, a further step toward endemic management of Covid. “We also continue to urge the administration to immediately end pre-departure testing for vaccinated inbound international passengers, which discourages travel and provides limited public health benefits.” The revision came after former President Donald Trump's appointment, US District Judge Kathryn Kimball Mizelle in Tampa, found the CDC failed to defend its judgment and did not follow normal rule-making procedures. She found that the CDC had overstepped its bounds with the mandate, had failed to seek public input, and had failed to sufficiently explain its judgments. Delta Air Lines issued the following statement: “Following the ruling of a US district court judge on Monday, the Biden administration announced that the Transportation Security Administration will no longer enforce the federal mandate requiring masks in all US airports and on board aircraft. “Effective immediately, masks are optional for all airport employees, crew members and customers inside U.S. airports and on board all aircraft domestically, as well as on most international flights. “We are relieved to see the US mask mandate lift to facilitate global travel as Covid-19 has transitioned to an ordinary seasonal virus. According to United Airlines, “Effective immediately, masks are no longer required at United on domestic flights, select international flights (dependent upon the arrival country’s mask requirements) or at U.S. airports.” According to American Airlines, “The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) continues to recommend that people wear a face mask in indoor public transportation settings, but they aren’t required to be worn in airport settings or on your flight unless an individual jurisdiction has these requirements.”

Travelcoup Deluxe Starts Offering Jet & Exclusive Private Jet Package from London

12th Apr 2022 0

Travelcoup Deluxe, a premium tour operator, has begun offering its Jet & Exclusive private jet package from London, linking travelers to many destinations in continental Europe, including Ibiza, Mykonos, Mallorca, Venice, and Nice. Last year, Travelcoup Deluxe, a product of Travelcoup Schweiz AG, made its debut in Germany and Switzerland. The operator collaborates with charter airlines Arcus Air, GlobeAir, and Wega Air, as well as hotels and transportation businesses, to provide a full private jet package that may be booked online or through chosen travel agents. The company indicated that UK agencies earn a commission of 12% per booking, with no minimum sales requirements. From London-Biggin Hill, Jet & Exclusive guests can travel to France (Paris, Nice, Chambery), Germany (Sylt), Austria (Vienna, Salzburg, Innsbruck), Spain (Mallorca, Ibiza), Greece (Mykonos), Italy (Venice), Switzerland (Zurich, Geneva, Berne, St. Moritz and Sion), and the Netherlands (Amsterdam) (Amsterdam). Six Senses Ibiza, Belmond La Residencia Mallorca, Myconian Korali Relais & Chateaux Mykonos, JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa Venice, and the Monte Carlo Beach Hotel Nice are among the partner hotels. Phenom 100, Citation Mustang, and Citation XLS+ private jets are among the aircraft in use. Prices start at £2,324 per person and include return private jet flights for four people from London to Amsterdam, as well as two nights in a five-star hotel with breakfast. The Jet & Exclusive package allows travelers to use a private jet exclusively. Other Travelcoup Deluxe options allow clients to fly with up to eight other passengers on a private jet. Travelcoup Deluxe has said that it is committed to reducing CO2 emissions by automatically offsetting greenhouse gas emissions linked with each booking.

Saga Cruises Announces Ocean Cruise Schedule for 2023

07th Apr 2022 0

Saga Cruises has announced its ocean cruise schedule for 2023, with sailings ranging from five to 78 nights. The itinerary kicks out on January 12 with a 78-night South American cruise on the Spirit of Adventure, which departs Portsmouth. The itinerary includes stops in Argentina, Colombia, the Chilean Fjords, the Falkland Islands, and South Georgia. Prices begin at £17,663. The lead-in fee for the Spirit of Discovery's 28-night Autumn Colours of New England voyage, which departs on 26th September 2023, is £8,073. Sailing, according to Saga is “the perfect way to see the stunning coastline from the east coast of the USA and Canada to Newfoundland”. On 5th March 2023, the Spirit of Discovery will embark on a 30-night Springtime in the Caribbean trip from Portsmouth. For the first time since 2017, the cruise includes a stop at the Caribbean island of Montserrat. The cruise starts at £6,515 per person. Beginning 31st March, the Spirit of Adventure will embark on a 22-night Ancient Cities of the Mediterranean trip. The cruise will be repeated on 4th September aboard the Spirit of Discovery. The start-up cost is £5,168. On 9th April and 9th October, Saga will offer a 22-night Venice and the Treasures of the Adriatic trip. Rovinj, Croatia, is a new port of call on the route. Prices begin at £4,995. Five-night cruises, such as the Capitals of the Emerald Isle itinerary, the Western Maritime Ports excursion, and the Hidden Gems of the British Isles cruise, are available for passengers searching for a shorter cruise. A Norwegian Trilogy on Spirit of Adventure departing 7th May 2023, from £1,664 per person; Fjord Explorer on Spirit of Discovery departing June 22, 2023, from £1,800 per person; and Norway's Cities and Fjords on Spirit of Adventure departing 21st July 2023, from £1,800 per person. On 4th June of next year, the line will offer an 18-night Classic Italy and the Western Mediterranean cruise. Lisbon, Portimo, Portugal; Majorca, Spain; Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy; and Monaco are among the ports of call. Prices begin at £4,231. From 22nd April to 20th August, a variety of Mediterranean cruises are available. Saga's ocean cruises are all-inclusive, including all dining and house drinks, such as a variety of cocktails, draft beers and lagers, wines, spirits, mixers, and soft drinks, as well as a complimentary door-to-door chauffeur service. WiFi, gratuities, workout facilities, 24-hour room service, sightseeing tours in selected ports, entertainment, luggage porterage, shuttle buses to nearby town centers, and travel insurance with up to £5 million Covid-19 cover are also included on board. Saga Cruises' chief executive, Nigel Blanks, said: “We are offering a range of cruises from our 78-night South American itinerary, through to the shorter week-long British Isles and Fjords options, which are a fantastic introduction to cruising for those wanting to try it for the first time. “And of course, guests can also choose the ever-popular destinations around the USA and Canada, Mediterranean, Croatia, Iceland, Greenland, Italy and the Canary Islands.”

Norwegian Air No Longer Require Face Masks

04th Apr 2022 0

From Monday (4th April), Norwegian Air will no longer compel customers to wear face masks. As a result of changed guidance across Europe, the required requirement will be lifted on every flight across the budget carrier's network for the first time since 17th June 2020. As governments relax or eliminate Covid travel restrictions, passengers will be able to choose whether or not to wear a face mask. Since 12th February, when the limitations were first dropped across Scandinavia, the carrier has seen increasing passenger demand and optimism to book ahead for both leisure and business travel. Norwegian Air is optimistic that travel will rebound and thrive in the next summer months. According to the airline, “Norwegian advises all passengers to check the local requirements and guidance at their destination before traveling, including stops and connecting flights in Europe. “It is the responsibility of the passenger to comply with local regulations and restrictions. Those who still wish to wear a face mask on board are welcome to do so.”

Ryanair to Open a New Base in Newcastle

29th Mar 2022 0

Ryanair will open a new base in Newcastle, with ten new services to locations across Europe. Two aircraft will be based in the northeast, allowing the budget airline to expand its Newcastle route network to 19. Chania, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, Ibiza, Krakow, Menorca, Milan, Paphos, Riga, and Zadar are among the new additions. During the summer peak, Ryanair says it will run more than 130 flights per week from Newcastle, which is 40 more than it did last year. It was also stated that the move represented a £150 million investment that would result in the creation of 60 new direct employment. Dara Brady, Ryanair's director of marketing, said:  "The opening of this base and introduction of these new routes from Newcastle reinforces our commitment to increasing connectivity, travel options and inbound tourism to the area as Ryanair will now offer 40% more capacity than it did pre-pandemic." Nick Jones, the chief executive of Newcastle Airport, added: "Today sees a significant investment and commitment from Ryanair at Newcastle International airport which will also benefit the wider north east, creating hundreds of new jobs and providing an even bigger choice of destinations. "From today, Ryanair will operate a total of 19 routes from our airport, including the brand new destinations of Zadar in Croatia, Chania in Crete, Milan in Italy and Riga in Latvia. We look forward to welcoming even more Ryanair passengers through our doors this summer."

AmaWaterways to Launch Its First Vessel in Colombia by 2024

24th Mar 2022 0

In 2024, AmaWaterways will launch its first vessel on Colombia's Magdalena River, which will be "a combination" of the line's Africa and Mekong-based vessels. The all-suite catamaran, which would likely seat roughly 70 passengers, will launch outside of the two rainy seasons in April and May and October and November in 2024, according to Jon Burrows, AmaWaterways' chief operating officer. AmaWaterways had previously stated that the new ship AmaMagdalena would enter service in December 2023, but Burrows acknowledged that the project had been pushed back a few months. He stated, “The ship design is now finished so we can now think about construction. Nobody operates on the Magdalena yet. It’s a wild river and it’s in its natural form, so there are no facilities. “The project will require investigation and exploration.” The ship would be the same size as AmaWaterways' Nile-based vessel, AmaDahlia, and would be "a combination" of the line's south-east Asian and African products, he said. Burrows also indicated that a second vessel will be added to the Nile. The line said its fleet capacity had expanded by 36% this year as a result of the addition of three ships during the pandemic – AmaSiena, AmaLucia, and AmaDahlia – and the return of three boats when a leasing deal expired.

British Airways Franchise Comair Ready to Restart Operation

21st Mar 2022 0

After a brief suspension, Comair, a South African airline that flies in the British Airways livery, is ready to restart operations. The South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) suspended the Johannesburg-based carrier's operating certificate earlier this month as a "precautionary measure" due to safety concerns. However, Comair's ban has been lifted following a five-day assessment by the SACAA. Glenn Orsmond, the CEO of Comair, said: “The best way we can assist our customers is to start flying again. “Our operations, airport, contact centres and support teams are working to help customers get to their destinations. “We’re ramping up our schedule and should have our regional and domestic services restored by tomorrow ahead of the long weekend.” Orsmond emphasized that no conclusions affecting flight operations or maintenance were made. “We operate some of the most modern aircraft in South African skies, apply global best practice to ensure operational safety and our crew training is world class,” he added. During the operations pause, Orsmond said the airline did everything it could to help customers, including chartering planes and rebooking passengers on other airlines.

Princess Cruises Resumes Operations in Australia this Summer

16th Mar 2022 0

Princess Cruises will resume operations in Australia this summer, after the conclusion of the country's cruise ship prohibition next month. In June, Coral Princess will return to the region, offering three- to 12-night round-trip Brisbane itineraries with stops in Queensland and New South Wales. The line also announced additional deployment plans from the United States, including a return to homeport cruising in Galveston and San Diego in December and September, respectively. Ruby Princess will sail from Galveston on a series of five to eleven-night cruises to sites in the Western Caribbean from December to April 2023. The first cruises go on sale on 7th April. Diamond Princess will offer itineraries ranging from five to sixteen nights from September to February 2023, visiting ports throughout the Mexican Riviera, California Coast, and the Hawaiian Islands. The first cruises go on sale on 24th March. For the 2022/2023 West Coast season, Royal Princess will relocate to San Francisco, providing round-trip voyages to Hawaii, Mexico, and the California Coast. John Padgett, president of Princess Cruises, said: "Deploying these three ships to service over the next two months will mark the return of the entire Princess fleet, once our highly anticipated return to Australia is approved by local authorities."

Viking Floated Out its First Ship to Sail on a US River

11th Mar 2022 0

Viking's first ship to sail on a US river was floated out at a shipyard in Louisiana. Following completion of the ship's construction, the 386-passenger Viking Mississippi will begin sailing between New Orleans and St. Paul in June. In what it has billed as a huge investment to tourism and economic development in several communities along the Mississippi River, the business aims to carry 7,500 passengers this year and more than 17,600 in its first full sailing season in 2023. Louisiana (Baton Rouge, Darrow, New Orleans, and St. Francisville); Mississippi (Natchez and Vicksburg); Tennessee (Memphis); Missouri (Hannibal, St. Louis); Iowa (Burlington, Dubuque, and Davenport); Wisconsin (La Crosse); and Minnesota (Burlington, Dubuque, and Davenport) (Red Wing, St Paul). Torstein Hagen, the chairman of the Vikings, “It is a proud moment that this new ship has met an American waterway for the first time.  “Our guests have long wanted to sail the Mississippi River with Viking, and we very much look forward to welcoming them on board this summer.”

Holland America to Resume Full Summer Season of Alaska and Canada Sailings

08th Mar 2022 0

Holland America Line is gearing up for a full summer season of Alaska cruises and Canada/New England sailings, after the relaxing of Covid restrictions and the opening of Canadian ports. The action occurred after the Canadian government outlined a public framework for cruise ships to follow in order to resume sailings on Monday (March 7). Cruise lines are expected to follow a tight public health framework as a condition of sailing, which includes requiring everyone on board to be completely vaccinated against Covid-19 – with "extremely few" exclusions – as well as testing and reporting. According to Transport Canada, “The ability to welcome cruise ships back to our waters is possible because Canadians have stepped up, rolled up their sleeves, got vaccinated, and followed public health measures. “The industry has made the safe return of cruise ships to Canadian waters possible by committing to a comprehensive set of enhanced safety protocols on board, including vaccinations, enhanced hygiene practices, and passenger screening based on the best available science.” HAL has been able to sail itineraries that include Canadian homeports and ports of call as scheduled since the publication of rules for the safe resumption of cruises to Canadian ports. For roundtrip voyages and itineraries between Vancouver and Whittier, Alaska, ships utilize Vancouver as a homeport. Round-trip cruises from Seattle to Alaska stop in Victoria, Canada. Ships travel between Montreal and Quebec City in Canada and Boston in New England. Itineraries run from six to twenty-four days in length and include stops in Quebec, Newfoundland, Nova Scotia, Labrador, and Prince Edward Island. HAL's first ship to dock in Canada is the Koningsdam, which docks in Victoria on April 9 before sailing to Vancouver the next day. On a nine-day Atlantic Coast route from Fort Lauderdale to Montreal, Zaandam makes a stop at Halifax, Nova Scotia on May 17. Gus Antorcha, president of HAL, said: “The completion of this guidance by Transport Canada, Canada Border Services Agency, Public Health Agency of Canada, and port officials will allow us to sail our Alaska and Canada/New England seasons as planned. “This is a positive step for everyone who loves to travel to these regions and for all of the businesses in Canada that we support through tourism. “Many of the protocols Canada is applying were successfully implemented in the United States after the restart of cruising, and they are working well. “We are well-positioned to follow Canada’s direction and continue delivering memorable cruise vacations that include Canadian ports.” The resumption coincides with HAL's 75th anniversary of Alaska sailings in 2022. Robin Silverster, CEO of the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority, said: “We greatly value our longstanding partnership with Holland America Line, which was the first cruise line to call at the new Canada Place cruise terminal at the Port of Vancouver in 1986. “We’re pleased to see the return of cruising in Canada, and we look forward to welcoming cruise lines, guests and crew back to Vancouver.”

Qatar Removes Quarantine Requirement for Vaccinated Brits

03rd Mar 2022 0

After the United Kingdom was removed from Qatar's red travel list, vaccinated British visitors will no longer be required to quarantine upon arrival. Last November, the UK was placed on Qatar's high-risk travel list, along with 20 other nations, due to an increase in Covid-19 cases. Following the modification announced on Monday night, only nine countries are still subject to isolation while visiting the country. All tourists from the United Kingdom, on the other hand, must present a negative pre-travel PCR lab result valid within 48 hours of departure, as well as complete an online pre-travel registration at least three days before arrival. According to Qatar Tourism, “Although uploading the PCR test result is not mandatory during the electronic pre-registration process, travellers who are required to have pre-travel PCR test must present the original copy of the PCR test result to the airline on which they are flying, to allow them to board the plane.” Before landing in Qatar, passengers must sign a public health ministry undertaking and acknowledgment form. The official ehteraz contact tracking app, operated by the Qatar Ministry of Public Health, is required for all travelers. In other news, Oman has begun to relax its Covid travel requirements for overseas visitors. Pre-registration via the Ministry of Health's online form is no longer required. Over-18s must show a vaccination certificate with a QR code proving they have received at least two doses of an approved Covid-19 vaccine. They must present a negative Covid-19 PCR test upon arrival or within 24 hours of admission, as well as proof of disease-specific health insurance.

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The best things to do in Honduras

28th Feb 2022 0

With a reputation on the less than pleasant side, Honduras has often been a place snuffed at by international travels.  While this may have been true in the past, with violent gang-based crime widespread across the country, the country is now developing to cater to those who are hungry to travel.  But, this mysterious Central American country is intriguing, as much as it is captivating.  Bordering El Salvador to the West and Nicaragua to the South, Honduras is a country full of life, culture, drama, and nature. Due to its violent history, Honduras is one of the less-frequented countries in the entire Central American region.  Which, to some, maybe a welcome relief. Lose yourself in vast scenery, without the worry of great crowds to contend with. However, it is always recommended to follow your country's governmental guidance when it comes to traveling in Honduras – stay up to date with the goings-on in-country.  Read on to discover some of the hidden gems of Honduras.  Bay Islands  Between 15 – 30 miles off the eastern coast of Honduras, visitors can find Islas de la Bahía or Bay Islands. Compromising of 3 main islands (Roatán, Utila, and Guanaja), the reef system that surrounds these tropical paradises is thought to be the second-largest in the world – second only to The Great Barrier Reef in Australia.  As can be expected, a wealth of wildlife can be found in these living cities. Perhaps the biggest draw is the scuba diving and snorkeling opportunities, where whale sharks are known to pass. Other species include turtles, sharks, rays, and a multitude of colorful fish.  The biggest of the Islands, Roatán, is home to some of the best beaches in the entire world. Absolutely worth a visit.  [caption id="attachment_52807" align="alignnone" width="1005"] Panoramic view of the Roatan Island, Honduras[/caption] Trujillo  Back on the mainland of Honduras, on the Caribbean coastline, discover the beautiful colonial town of Trujillo. One of the first settlements colonized by the Spanish, Trujillo retains intricately cobbled streets and historic monuments – such as San Juan Bautista Cathedral and the Santa Bárbara Fortress.  On top of the quaint town, the beaches here are electrifying. The hybrid of the Caribbean and Spanish vibes creates a unique ambiance that radiates charm. With a mix of cultures, comes a delicious cuisine. If you have a sweet tooth, try the Tabletas de Leche y coco – the local afro-indigenous community that specializes in this coconut and milk treat.  [caption id="attachment_52808" align="alignnone" width="1005"] Sunrise in the city of Trujillo Honduras and its landscapes[/caption] Capiro and Calentura National Park If you’re visiting Trujillo, explore the National Park that borders the coastal town. With peaks and valleys, as well as rising mountains, the landscape is one to behold. Part of the Honduran Protected Areas System, this National Park is an important refuge for local fauna. One of the most significant species of the area is the scarlet macaws; a species that has faced a drastic decline in recent years. Today, Capiro and Calentura National Park is a stronghold for this avian – as well as many other species, such as primates.  Throughout the National Park, there are many hiking trails meandering through the tropical jungle environment that allows visitors to spot interesting wildlife.  Copan Ruins  Near the Northern border of Guatemala, the ancient Mayan ruins of Copan can be found. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the area is an important archeological area for the preservation of the ancient ruins. This is the place for you if you’re into ancient history.  Incredibly, no one is entirely sure what caused the collapse of this once great civilization. As you walk around, discover the fascinating hieroglyphics and sculptors and picture what life was like here thousands of years ago.  [caption id="attachment_52809" align="alignnone" width="1005"] Pyramid and Stella in the ancient Mayan city of Copan in Honduras.[/caption] Rio Cangrejal  One of the steepest rivers in all of Central America, Rio Cangrejal is also one of the shortest; at around 25km.  In some sections of the river, the water is crystal-clear and full of boulders and dense jungles around the banks. Together, this creates a unique environment that is hard to find anywhere else on earth. The natural landscapes create a habitat that is home to a range of different animals; from countless bird species to elusive mammals.  There are many activities for those with an adventurous heart. Experience the thrill of hitting the rapids or take your time as you amble down the hiking trails to spot wildlife.  La Mosquitia  The easiest way to describe La Mosquitia is the Central American equivalent of the Amazon jungle. Located in the Southeastern tip of Honduras, La Mosquitia is one of the largest tropical rainforests in Central America.  Largely untouched by humans, the rainforest of La Mosquitia remains a stronghold for many species – from the smallest insects to the largest carnivores. Much of the 865000-acre forest is home to trees reaching up to 35 meters into the canopy.  Because of the pure density of the rainforest, it is recommended to not venture into the jungle alone. Always book a guided tour to learn about the nature, and history, of the area.  Lago de Yojoa  The largest lake in Honduras, with a surface area of 79sqkm, Lago de Yojoa lies in a depression formed by geothermal, volcanic activity.  To one side, vast mountains border the lake. On the other side, the Cerro Azul Member National Park. The lake itself is popular for watersport activities, from fishing to kayaking. Enjoy the daily fresh produce, and indulge in tilapia ceviche; a citrus cured fish dish, typically served with fried tortillas. The lake serves as an important stop-off point between the two cities of Tegucigalpa and San Pedro. Whilst in the region, discover the many waterfalls and hiking trails, as well as ancient ruins and archeological sites around the lake.  [caption id="attachment_52810" align="alignnone" width="1005"] Lake Yojoa located off the road between San Pedro Sula and Tegucigalpa, Honduras. It is the largest lake in Honduras[/caption]

EU to Lift Restrictions on Non-Essential Travel for Vaccinated and Recovered UK Citizens

22nd Feb 2022 0

From 1st March, the European Union will lift restrictions on non-essential travel for vaccinated and recovered UK citizens. New European Council proposals will allow vaccinated and recovered travelers to travel without limitations if they received their second dose at least 14 days "and no more than 270 days before arrival" or if they have received a booster dose. It went on to say: “Member states should also lift the temporary restriction on non-essential travel for persons who have recovered from Covid-19 within 180 days prior to traveling to the EU.” However, the Council kept the possibility of further testing open. It read: “EU countries could also require a negative PCR test taken up to 72 hours before departure and could apply additional measures such as quarantine or isolation. “A negative PCR test before departure could also be required for persons who have recovered from Covid-19, as well as for persons who have been vaccinated with an EU-approved vaccine but do not hold an EU or equivalent certificate.” Children's rules are also being eased. The European Union stated: “Children over six and under 18 who fulfil the conditions set out for adults should be allowed to travel. “In addition, all other children over six and under 18 should be allowed to travel with a negative PCR test taken at the earliest 72 hours before departure. Member states could require additional testing after arrival, as well as quarantine or isolation.” “No test or additional requirements should be applied to children under the age of six.” The Council also stated: “The amendments introduced respond to the evolution of the pandemic, the increasing vaccination uptake and administration of booster doses, and the recognition of a growing number of certificates issued by third countries as equivalent to the EU digital Covid certificate.” Although the proposals are not legally enforceable, the new rules are expected to be followed by all EU countries. The president and chief executive of the World Travel & Tourism Council, Julia Simpson, said: “WTTC welcomes the sensible decision by the EU to drop travel restrictions before Easter. “The patchwork of rules and regulations did nothing to prevent the spread of Covid but did cause immense damage to the economy of Europe causing the loss of jobs and businesses. Now is time to rebuild travel and tourism and connect Europe to the world.”

Austria, Switzerland and Germany Announces Steps to Loosen their Covid-19 Regulations

17th Feb 2022 0

Austria and Switzerland, two popular winter sports destinations, have announced steps to loosen their Covid-19 regulations. Austria's chancellor, Karl Nehammer, announced on March 5 that the country's government will abandon most Covid-related policies. Although, as early as this weekend, some rules will be relaxed. Those utilizing restaurants, hotels, and ski lifts in Austria, with the exception of Vienna, will be needed to verify they are vaccinated, recovered from Covid, or present a negative PCR test, known as 3-G arrangements, starting on Saturday, 19th February. People who use these services are currently only allowed in if they are completely vaccinated or have recovered from Covid, often known as 2-G. Then, starting on 5th March, face masks will only be required in essential stores such as supermarkets and banks, as well as when taking public transportation in Austria. The current Covid crisis, according to the Swiss government, means it's time for a "quick normalization" of daily life in the country. This includes removing the obligation to wear masks and providing Covid certificates to enter stores, restaurants, cultural venues, and other public events immediately. The only remaining Covid limitations in Switzerland will be the obligation to self-isolate for five days after a positive Covid test, as well as the requirement to wear masks on public transportation and in healthcare facilities, as of today (17th February). These final restrictions will be in effect until 31st March. Germany is also implementing a three-step strategy to relax restrictions across the country, beginning with the lifting of limitations on private indoor meetings for vaccinated persons and the elimination of non-essential store checks in the coming days. On 4th March, persons who have been fully vaccinated or recovered from Covid will be permitted into pubs and hotels without having to do a test, whereas unvaccinated people will have to perform a test. On 20th March, the final round of the loosening will see constraints such as working from home lifted. Despite this, restrictions prohibiting the wearing of masks on public transportation will continue in effect beyond this date.

Aer Lingus Launched Sale on Non-stop Transatlantic Flights from Manchester

15th Feb 2022 0

Non-stop transatlantic flights from Manchester are being put on sale by Aer Lingus. For bookings made by 28th February to New York, Orlando, and Barbados, the airline has reduced the price of roundtrip economy travel by £100 and the price of return Business Class travel by £200. Fares from Manchester to Barbados are available until 30th April 2022, with fares from Orlando and New York available until 30th June 2022. Aer Lingus' global sales director, Bill Byrne, said: “There’s never been a better time to plan a springtime getaway to the Caribbean or US, especially since we continue to see consumer confidence grow in light of the recent removal of UK travel requirements.”

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Why you should consider a stopover in Athens enroute to your Greek Island holiday destination

08th Feb 2022 0

Greece has long been a much loved holiday destination for the British. In 2019 (the last full year without the travel restrictions imposed due to the pandemic), 3.5 million British tourists travelled to the southern tip of the Balkans for their vacation. The country is made up of around 220 islands and mainland Greece, which to the north borders Albania, North Macedonia and Bulgaria. Popular destinations for British holidaymakers include the islands of Corfu, Crete and Zante (Zakinthos), and in more recent years, Santorini, Mykonos and Kefalonia have become favoured as well.  In addition to these is Athens, Greece’s capital city and the countries most visited location, welcoming a huge 6.3 million tourists in 2019. Athens is famous for its ancient ruins and historical sites, and also home to fabulous food and a vibrant nightlife, traditional markets and beautiful surroundings. From the UK you are able to fly directly to the majority of Greece’s islands and your holiday spot of choice, but if time permits, a stopover in Athens en route is definitely worth considering. Athens has a warm Mediterranean climate. Due to dry hot winds breezing over from the Sahara, peak summer temperatures can reach 32°C. A more comfortable time to come, especially when you are travelling onwards to an island afterwards, is May into early June and then again in September, where temperatures are a much more pleasant 25-28°C. Athens International Airport is located just over 16 miles from the city centre and will take approximately 35 minutes by car, 40 minutes by metro and 60 minutes by bus. There are around 300 hotels in Athens, most situated in the centre; in Plaka, near the Acropolis, or around the Lycabettus Hill in Kolonaki, and around Parliament Square and Sygrou Avenue. Around 45 minutes away from the centre you will find hotels situated on the coast, an area known as the Athenian Riviera. Athens offers all the main hotel chains including Intercontinental, Hilton and Marriott to name a few, as well as many independent boutique hotels, suiting everyone's tastes and demands.  [caption id="attachment_52448" align="alignnone" width="1005"] Athens Riviera, south coast, Greece. Asteras Vouliagmeni luxury resort hotel aerial drone view. Transparent turquoise sea water and sandy beach, sunny summer day.[/caption] Athens is a great place for walking around so it is good to have that in mind when you are selecting your hotel. Although the city does have good public transport options, such as the metro and bus service, if you are located near enough to your tourist attractions of choice there shouldn’t be any need to use them. Unbeknown to many, Athens is in fact home to hundreds of historical sites. These can be sometimes stumbled across and seen from a distance almost by accident when wandering around the city, whereas the larger and more famous sites are enclosed and you will be required to pay an entry fee. The Acropolis is usually the number one attraction to visit on most peoples lists. The settlement, built in the 5th century BC, was where royals and prestigious citizens resided. Its position, upon a hill above Athens was chosen for its defensive strengths. The Acropolis is made up of the remains of many different buildings, including the Propylaea, the grand entrance, the Temple of Athena Nike; and the most famous temple, the Parthenon. Entry to the Acropolis in the peak months of April to the end of October is 20 euros, apart from the 18th May which is international museum day, and the last weekend of September, when it is free (although likely to be very busy). On your way up to, or back down from the Acropolis, you will likely wander into Plaka, the oldest neighbourhood in Athens, sitting on the north-east slope. Famous for its narrow, picture-perfect streets and local shops and boutiques, here you can pick up locally made clothes and traditional souvenirs. Within the narrow passageways and cobbled streets you will also find quaint cafes to stop for a Greek coffee or a lunch of traditional Souvlaki, (grilled meats) Saganaki, (fried cheese), and Tzatziki, a garlic and lemon yoghurt. [caption id="attachment_52449" align="alignnone" width="1005"] Beautiful view to the little streets of the old town Plaka of Athens, Greece with colorful houses and blooming bougainvillea flowers[/caption] From Plaka, you can walk north for around 6 minutes and find yourself in another popular Athenian neighbourhood, Monastiraki. Named after a large monastery that once stood here, the area is now bursting with vintage clothing shops and the trendy Monastiraki Flea Market which is definitely worth a visit, trading everything from clothes, bags and jewellery, to ornaments and antiques, and even carpets and rugs. The main market runs every Sunday, although there are many shops and stalls here to visit on the other days too. As the afternoon heat takes hold, an option for a break out of the sun can be found at the National Gardens, just 15 minutes to the west of the market. Seen as an oasis in the city, here you will find a large park offering shade and peace from the traffic noises and tourist bustle.  In to the evening and another great opportunity to see the cities landmarks, this time from the many rooftop bars that are dotted around Athens. Most impressive is the imposing Acropolis, lit up against the night sky. Bars and restaurants with rooftops will all advertise their views at their entrances to entice guests, so don't worry about not being able to find them anywhere. It is also very common to find a taverna with live music to enjoy with your drinks of choice, long into the evening.  [caption id="attachment_52450" align="alignnone" width="1005"] Acropolis at night with full moon Greece[/caption] The following day, and if time allows before your departure, one last worthwhile excursion should be a morning climb to the top of Mount Lycabettus. Depending on fitness levels, the walk can take between 30 and 45 minutes. A moderately challenging hike up 909 feet might not be everyone’s cup of tea when on holiday, but the 360-degree views are simply breathtaking. From the top, you will see the nearby Acropolis of course, and other city landmarks you may have visited during your stay, and in the distance, the Aegean Sea will glitter on the horizon. Here at the summit, you will also find the Chapel of St. George, a cafe and a restaurant, (notorious pricey due to its stunning views!) If walking is definitely out of the question you are still able to visit the mountain top; the Teleferik is a cable car that runs from 9 am through until 1:30 am and takes just 3 minutes. From the UK you can fly directly to Athens from London Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted and Luton, as well as from Bristol, Birmingham, Manchester and Edinburgh, in around 3 hours and 40 minutes. Travelling by plane from Athens to your chosen Greek Island will take between 45 minutes and 65 minutes, normally with multiple flights scheduled per day. Alternatively, you may wish to try something a little different and continue your journey onwards by boat. An express bus will take you southwest from Athens City Centre to Piraeus Port in 50 minutes, where you can sail directly to nearly all the Greek Islands. Nearby islands will likely have both a high speed or standard ferry option. For example, the island of Aegina, which, as the closest island to Athens, will take as little as 45 minutes. Poros, again fairly close, will take anywhere from 1 - 2.5 hours. Mykonos, slightly further afield will take upwards of 2.5 hours. and islands beyond this will obviously take longer; Crete for example will take 6.5 hours, whereas a trip across the Aegean Sea to Kos will take 9 hours.  [caption id="attachment_52451" align="alignnone" width="1005"] The lake Voulismeni in Agios Nikolaos, a picturesque town in the eastern part of the island Crete, Greece[/caption]

One&Only Resorts to Open its First Location in the United States

03rd Feb 2022 0

One&Only Resorts is planning to open its first location in the United States. The brand's first alpine resort, One&Only Moonlight Basin, will open in Big Sky, Montana, in 2024. There will be 73 rooms and suites in the main lodge, as well as 19 private villas scattered across the resort. There will also be a separate ski lodge and a Chenot spa on the property. With 62 individual dwellings dispersed throughout the landscape, it will be the first community of One&Only Private Homes in the United States. It will be situated between Lone Peak and the Spanish Peaks, with a gondola connecting it to Big Sky's ski areas. Philippe Zuber, the chairman and CEO of Kerzner International, said: “I am thrilled that we are introducing our first One&Only resort and community of Private Homes in the U.S.  Each One&Only resort celebrates their own distinctive location and Big Sky is the perfect site, where guests and residents alike can enjoy the very best of nature year-round through the life and energy of One&Only. “At Moonlight Basin, Lone Mountain Land Company has built a mountain destination that showcases the natural beauty of Montana’s extensive, dramatic landscapes, and I am delighted to introduce One&Only in this unrivalled destination.” Photo credit to https://www.oneandonlyresorts.com/

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5 Best Hotels in Aruba

27th Jan 2022 0

A part of the four countries that make the Kingdom of Netherlands, Aruba is among the most famous holiday destinations in the Caribbean. The Dutch island is mainly known for its flat landmass and dry weather that promises sunny days throughout the year.  Tourists island-hopping in the Caribbean often combine a visit to Aruba with a stopover in Bonaire and Curacao. Together these three destinations form the ABC group of islands. A holiday in Aruba is a mix of adventure and relaxation. Visitors can enjoy miles of powdery white sandy beaches, savour delicious Caribbean-Dutch cuisine, go scuba diving, walk around the colourful capital of Oranjestad, and partake in the island's vibrant nightlife.  Although Aruba is a popular cruise terminus, an extended vacation on the island is the ideal way to appreciate and experience all of its marvels. Making your stay comfortable are the best hotels in Aruba that range from ultra-luxurious beachside resorts to quaint boutique abodes brimming with character.              The Ritz-Carlton One of the most iconic hotels in Aruba, the Ritz-Carlton takes a prime spot on the world-famous Palm Beach. Offering top-of-the-line facilities, the hotel caters to every type of traveller, from professionals and large groups to couples and families. Designed in contemporary style, using the finest furnishings, each of the 320 rooms and suites at the Ritz-Carlton grants sweeping sea or resort views. Furthermore, in-room conveniences include 46" TVs, showers and baths, balconies, desks, and living spaces. However, the joy of being in Aruba is to be out and about. Therefore, when not lounging on the beach, you can make the most of the hotel's many facilities, including two swimming pools. For children, there's a kid's club and plenty of areas to run around freely.  On the other hand, adults can try their luck at the 24-hour casino or go in for a rejuvenating treatment at the 15000 square-feet spa centre that offers a fantastic hammock massage. Not forgetting gourmands, the Ritz-Carlton has six restaurants on-site, BLT Steak, an American favourite, being one of them.  [caption id="attachment_52298" align="alignnone" width="950"] The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba[/caption] Aruba Ocean Villas Aruba Ocean Villas might be a 30-minute drive from Palm Beach, but it is one of the most remarkable hotels in Aruba. The nine all-villa-property in Savaneta is, after all, the only accommodation on the island with overwater bungalows. However, out of the nine abodes at this adults-only resort, three are on the beach. Setting aside the novelty factor of the guestrooms, the villas further celebrate island culture with their interiors. Mahogany furniture, thatched roofs, canopy beds, open-air showers, dining space, private pools, and jacuzzis help set the mood and build an intimate ambience. Since all the villas are individual in design, you can also stay in an eco-friendly residence that uses 100% renewable energy.   The authentic charm of staying at the locally-owned Aruba Ocean Villas is the range of relaxing activities one can relish. There's the Sunday BBQ, massages over the water, plenty of outside seating, beach access, and live music and dance events.  Not to miss, though, is a meal at the eccentrically named Old Man and the Sea. The in-house restaurant plates local and international classics in a romantic setting with cabanas over the water. However, the restaurant only has ten tables, making it essential to pre-book meals to avoid last-minute disappointment. [caption id="attachment_52301" align="alignnone" width="696"] Aruba Ocean Villas, Aruba[/caption] Photo credit to https://bigseventravel.com/ Boardwalk Boutique Hotel Owned by sisters Kimberly and Stephanie, Boardwalk is one of the lesser-known yet fantastic boutique hotels in Aruba. Operational since 1989, the hotel now occupies what was previously a coconut plantation. But don't let its past dissuade you, for Boardwalk Boutique underwent a total refurbishment in 2019 to emerge as a stylish accommodation with a chic and vibrant vibe. Having 46 pastel and sea-coloured casitas, Boardwalk is a soothing getaway only a three-minute walk from Palm Beach. The décor of the rooms shines a spotlight on island-living with gorgeous wallpapers, large windows to let sunlight in, and private patios. Every casita also has air-conditioners, a kitchenette, en-suite baths, free WiFi, and hammocks in the open. A far cry from resort living, Boardwalk's adorable common areas further add to its seductive appeal. This gorgeous escape has two swimming pools, one with hammocks over the water and a pool bar. The staff can also arrange for spa treatments on-site, and the breakfast at Boardwalk is a healthy plant-based take on local cuisine.         [caption id="attachment_52300" align="alignnone" width="1005"] Boardwalk Boutique Hotel, Aruba[/caption] Photo credit to https://boardwalkboutiquehotelaruba.com Wonders Boutique Hotel The best boutique hotels in Aruba come with unmatched customized features that add to their persona. Wonders Boutique Hotel, 2km from Oranjestad centre, is no different.  Situated close to Eagle Beach, the highlights of staying at Wonders is its swimming pool, fed by natural spring water. But if it is the beach you want, the hotel offers free shuttle service to both Eagle and Palm beaches daily. Moreover, this adults-only haven with a tropical garden is in a gated residential area, providing guests with a serene escape away from the bustle of the city.  The 11 rooms at Wonders come with modern conveniences but at the same time create a homely atmosphere. Some of the amenities you'll find in the guestrooms are king-sized beds, TVs, en-suite bathrooms, air-conditioning, and free WiFi. [caption id="attachment_52299" align="alignnone" width="1005"] Wonders Boutique Hotel, Aruba[/caption] Photo credit to https://wondersaruba.com/ Manchebo Beach Resort and Spa Over the last decade, there has been a tremendous rise in wellness travel. As a result, tourists are now looking for accommodations that create a harmonious environment which in turn soothes the mind, body, and soul.  Manchebo Beach Resort and Spa is a sustainable wellness resort on Eagle Beach, ideal for couples looking for an oasis of calm amongst the beauty of Aruba. The 72 rooms of the resort have a defining island aura. However, its design features replicate modern-day ideas, creating cosy and convenient surroundings. Guests staying at Manchebo can expect delicate soft-toned furnishings, rain showers, TVs, living spaces, and balconies in their rooms. They can also choose between ocean and garden view abodes.  When it comes to amenities, Manchebo doesn't hold back. Its spa, gym, yoga, and Pilates classes provide that much-needed element of wellness. At the same time, the freshwater pool and beachside service amplify the hotel's laidback appeal.  A favourite among food lovers, Manchebo has four restaurants serving world cuisines, from Mediterranean fare and a chophouse to Japanese and a beach grill. Gourmands, though, should look into booking their all-inclusive package that includes plenty of wine and food options. [caption id="attachment_52297" align="alignnone" width="1005"] Aerial from Manchebo beach on Aruba island in the Caribbean at sunset[/caption]  

Jet2 Announces Largest-Ever Iceland Program

18th Jan 2022 0

In response to "high demand" for winter 2022-23, Jet2.com and Jet2CityBreaks have announced the company's largest-ever Iceland program. The airline's and sister tour operator's increased schedule now includes twice-weekly flights from Birmingham and Manchester airports, as well as the airline's first Iceland flights from Bristol. Nearly 120 outgoing flights to Iceland are now scheduled to depart from Jet2's ten UK bases next winter, on top of existing services from Belfast International, Edinburgh, East Midlands, Glasgow, Leeds Bradford, Newcastle, and Stansted. From 29th September to 221st November 2022, and 9th February to 24th April 2023, Jet2 stated its planned routes from Birmingham and Manchester are "ideally timed for those seeking to enjoy the stunning Northern Lights," with flights on Monday and Thursday from both bases. Jet2CityBreaks, in addition to flight-only alternatives, is offering more than 40 three- and four-night trips to Iceland from eight UK locations, including Bristol for the first time. Steve Heapy, the company's CEO, stated: “Iceland is a destination that has continued to see strong demand, so we are delighted to be expanding our successful programme even further for winter 2022-23. “With a great programme of scheduled flights, complemented by over 40 dedicated trips, we are giving customers and independent travel agents more choice and flexibility than ever before. The unrivalled natural wonders of Iceland are making it a firm favourite with our customers, and the choice of award-winning flights and breaks through Jet2.com and Jet2CityBreaks, means we are looking ahead to a very busy programme next winter.” Gretar Gardarsson, Keflavik Airport's director of airline partnerships and route development, added: “We are thrilled to hear of the strong demand that Jet2.com and Jet2CityBreaks have had for trips and holidays to Iceland. They continue to be valued partners. “We are delighted to welcome them back and look forward to working together with them on their increased programme for the 2022-23 winter season.”

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Manuel Antonio: The Must Sees

27th Dec 2021 0

Despite being one of Costa Rica’s smallest National Parks, the famous idiom of size isn’t everything truly comes into its own here.  Located on the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica, nestled between the party town of Jaco top the North and the pristine primary rainforests of the Osa Peninsula to the South, Manuel Antonio offers a strategic stronghold for those wishing to see the very best of Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast.  Along with many destinations of Costa Rica, the rich biodiversity of the area makes Manuel Antonio a must-see destination. In fact, it is quite easy to spend the entirety of your stay in Costa Rica just in Manuel Antonio. Dotted amid the rainforest hilltops, you will find artisanal and boutique hotels. Instead of chain hotels that wreak havoc on the local ecosystems and economies, many of the hotels in Manuel Antonio are sustainably focused, with many winning awards within the eco-tourism sector.    While nature and wildlife are truly one to behold, there is more to this small, once fishing village, than meets the eye. Read on to discover some of the top attractions and things to do in Manuel Antonio.  Visit Manuel Antonio National Park  The main attraction to this humble community is the National Park. Established in 1972, this near 1600-acre reserve upholds stunning beauty and a huge diversity of wildlife. Within the park itself, you will likely encounter a variety of ecosystems, from rainforest and beaches to coral reefs; each offering a differing perspective on the region, and ultimately, different wildlife. Incredible really, as this is the smallest National Park in the country.  Amble down the many trails, and experience the transformative progression of the habitats. Firstly, discover the tropical rainforest and learn about the plants and habitats that call this habitat home. Best to keep an eye on the canopy, as the trees here house some very special Costa Rican animals: sloths! In the rainy season, witness incredible waterfalls that cascade down the mountainsides.  Multiple trails diverge into pristine jungles. However, some of the trails are steep, so some level of fitness is required. The views at the top of these trails more than makeup for the physical exertion. Offering panoramic lookout points of the surrounding jungle and ocean, you may even be lucky enough to see migrating whales.  After exploring the many trails within the jungle, reward yourself with an invigorating swim in the crystal-clear waters off the shore.   [caption id="attachment_51966" align="alignnone" width="1005"] White-faced Capuchin monkey on lying on a sign in Manuel Antonio National Park in Costa Rica[/caption] Explore the beaches  One very prestigious award goes to Manuel Antonio, and with good reason. Within the National Park, one special beach can be found. This beach, known simply as Manuel Antonio Beach, has been awarded as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world by the lonely planet.  A mere 30-minute hike from the park’s entrance, Manuel Antonio Beach is inundated with white sand, with a backdrop of the lush, tropical rainforest. Coconut-laden trees drape over this stretch of beach, which attracts all manner of cheeky wildlife, such as capuchin monkeys. A great spot for that Instagram-perfect shot.  However, this isn’t the only stunning beach in the area. With many tourists flooding to Manuel Antonio Beach, many miss out on the lesser-known beaches on the periphery of the town. Biesanz Beach, Escondido Beach, and Playa La Macha are some equally picturesque beaches of the area. In fact, without the hordes of tourists, and with exciting jungle hikes, these beaches may be slightly more spectacular.  Witness a multitude of marine birdlife, hunting in the shallow waters. The sheltered bays on offer here present the perfect opportunity to go for a leisurely swim, just be cautious of the underwater currents.  [caption id="attachment_49026" align="alignnone" width="1007"] Beautiful white sandy beach in Manuel Antonio Beach, Costa Rica.[/caption] Wildlife Tours  Manuel Antonio is a haven for wildlife. Despite the small size, an incredible diversity of plant and animal life can be found here. In fact, Manuel Antonio remains a stronghold for endangered wildlife such as squirrel monkeys and scarlet macaws.  Manuel Antonio is one of the few places in Costa Rica (as well as Corcovado National Park, near the Osa Peninsula), where you can spot troops of the critically endangered Central American squirrel monkeys. Known locally as Mono Titi, squirrel monkeys are the smallest primate species in Costa Rica. They are cute, playful, and inquisitive, however, they are threatened with extinction from human development and habitat loss.  Similarly, scarlet macaws suffer the same fate as the squirrel monkeys. Once found readily throughout Costa Rica, scarlet macaw populations have now been reduced to just a few pockets of the country. Fortunately, numbers in Manuel Antonio remain steady, and you can often find these vibrant parrots flying in pairs.  Other animals you may find within and around the National Park include capuchin and howler monkeys, iguanas and other lizard species, crabs, deer, agouti, and countless bird species. If you venture into the ocean, don’t forget to pack your snorkel as an incredible wealth of marine life can be observed under the waves. And one final reminder: although the wildlife may seem very accustomed to human presence, it is prohibited to feed any of the wildlife within the park.  [caption id="attachment_51964" align="alignnone" width="1005"] Squirrel Monkey on the branch of a tree in the rainforest of Costa Rica.[/caption] Watersport Activities  Around Manuel Antonio, off Espadilla Beach, a plethora of water-based activities can be had.  When in Costa Rica, you simply have to try a spot of surfing, and Manuel Antonio offers the perfect place for all levels. Bilingual guides are available to help you experience the fun of surfing.  If surfing isn’t for you, fear not. There are many water-based activities for you and the family to enjoy. From parasailing and banana boats to offshore fishing, Manuel Antonio has you covered. In fact, the shores of Manuel Antonio are bursting with life and are thought to be some of the best places for anglers to have a go at a spot of offshore fishing. Expect to catch roosterfish, snook, and red snapper.  But you are on vacation after all. With all the hiking and exploring, maybe all you want to do is to relax. And rightly so. Again, Manuel Antonio has you covered. Book on to a catamaran sunset trip, where you can relax onboard and appreciate the views of the coastal scenery. You may even get lucky and spy a pod of dolphins or a leaping whale.  [caption id="attachment_51965" align="alignnone" width="1005"] Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica: Women and men playing football at sunset in Espadilla Beach, next to Manuel Antonio National Park, in Costa Rica's Pacific coast[/caption]

Scenic Eclipse's Antarctica Expands 2023-24 Program

16th Dec 2021 0

Scenic Eclipse's Antarctica program has been expanded with three additional trips for 2023-24. A 12-day Antarctica Insights: Fly & Cruise Voyage, an 11-day Wild Antarctica, Fly the Drake itinerary, and a 19-day Beyond the Antarctic Circle voyage are among the new sailings. The Antarctica Insights trip will be the ship's first fly-cruise experience. Passengers will fly to King George Island and board the ship via the Drake Passage. Prices start at £14,485 for the 17th December departure. Passengers on Wild Antarctica, Fly the Drake voyage will fly to and from King George Island, bypassing the Drake Passage entirely. Prices for the cruise on 24th December begin at £13,450. Four nights at the Antarctic Circle are included in the 19-day Beyond the Antarctic Circle tour. The itinerary's prices start at £15,850 and depart on 8th February 2024. Three days in the Antarctic Circle is one of the line's other similar itineraries. Passengers who pay for their cruise in full 12 months before departure can save up to 20% on the 2023-24 Antarctica program. Scenic will run six Antarctica sailings this winter, beginning 8th January 2022. Since 17th July 2021, the Scenic Eclipse has been sailing chartered cruises in Saudi seas. Scenic Discovery Yachts' expedition operations manager, Jason Flesher, said: “We’ve been planning this season for months and we can’t wait to head back to the White Continent for a season. “Thanks to the size and capabilities of Scenic Eclipse, we’ve been able to secure exclusive landings in Margarite Bay, a southern destination that very few other ships visit.”

Luxury Collection Hotel Opens in Madrid

15th Dec 2021 0

Marriott Bonvoy, one of Marriott's 30 hotel brands, has announced the inauguration of its first hotel in Spain's capital. The Santo Mauro, a Luxury Collection Hotel in Madrid, is located in the Chamber neighborhood, adjacent to cultural sites such as the Sorolla Museum, Teatros del Canal, and Andén 0 Metro Station, a refurbished tube station with an exhibition room. The structure, which comes from the 18th century and was once the Duke of Santo Mauro's house, has been completely refurbished by renowned interior designer Lorenzo Castillo. There are 49 guest rooms in three buildings, including 10 suites with views of the grounds. Natural elements such as stone, marble, and wood, as well as leather, midnight blue velvet, and silk, have been used to renew the rooms. The celebrated chef Rafael Pea runs the flagship restaurant La Biblioteca, as well as the outside terrace El Garden for relaxing eating and the El Bar for cocktails and nibbles. The Georgian English Library, The Chinese Lounge, and an indoor pool are among the amenities available to guests. The second phase of the improvements, which will begin in summer 2022, will include a new spa and fitness center. Marriott International's vice president of luxury brands for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, Candice D'Cruz, stated: “Travellers are increasingly looking for meaningful, unique experiences that connect them to the heart of the locale when discovering a city and Santo Mauro, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Madrid allows our guests to embark on a journey back to the 18th-century, elevated with modern amenities and impeccable service.” “We are thrilled to introduce The Luxury Collection brand to Madrid, and we look forward to welcoming guests as they discover this timeless and historical world-famous city.”

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6 Amazing Things To Do in Mauritius

10th Dec 2021 0

Once famous for being the only habitat of the now-extinct dodo bird, Mauritius is a much-desired holiday destination in the Indian Ocean. First-time visitors particularly find the island's diverse topography consisting of mountains, rainforests, and stunning beaches to be an awe-inspiring surprise. Adding to Mauritius' natural charm are its UNESCO World Heritage Sites, colonial architecture, laidback ambience, and friendly locals.  Forever impressive, the highlight of any vacation in Mauritius is its marine life, best experienced through snorkelling and diving adventures around the many island reefs. Moreover, the beaches of Mauritius, when combined with its tropical weather, have an unavoidable magnetic pull that continues to attract thousands of sunseekers every year. However, there is much to Mauritius beyond the sand and the sea. An island rich in culture, its contemporary persona gives it a non-traditional appeal. As a result, the most amazing things to do in Mauritius shine a spotlight on diverse aspects of its identity, from the island's intrinsic beauty to its uniqueness and historical importance.    Visit Charmel Geopark A must-visit for nature lovers, Charmel's 7 Coloured Earth Geopark is a visually spectacular excursion that is both educational and exciting. The park is home to a natural phenomenon wherein the sand on a series of hills alternates between seven different colours, from purple, yellow, and violet to green, blue, brown, and red. However, plan to visit the park in the afternoon, when the sun is bright, to experience all the colours in their vibrancy. The magic of this 8.5 hectares geopark doesn't just end with coloured sand. Charmel is also where you'll find a Tortoise Park that houses six giant Aldabra turtles, who typically live till they are 150 years old. For adventurous travellers visiting the geopark, beauty awaits in the form of Charmel Waterfalls. The 100-meter-high single-drop waterfalls are the tallest in Mauritius. Although you can view this natural wonder from afar, one can also take a 3-hour hike for an unforgettably refreshing swim in the plunge pool at the base of the fall. [caption id="attachment_51631" align="alignnone" width="1005"] Seven Coloured Earth on Chamarel, Mauritius island, Africa[/caption] Take a Boat Trip to Île aux Cerfs There are plentiful things to do in Mauritius with the family, but a day trip to Île aux Cerfs is by far the most popular attraction. The incredibly gorgeous private island is a 15-minute speedboat ride from the Trou d'Eau Douce jetty. However, you can also take a full-day catamaran tour that includes stops at Île aux Fouquets and various snorkelling locations along the way. Once on Île aux Cerfs, you can partake in several activities or do nothing at all except lounge and take in the rays. Boasting an expansive white sandy beach, the island's lagoon stays shallow for miles, making it safe for children. Other facilities here include restaurants, beach bars, water sports, and even an 18-hole golf course.   [caption id="attachment_51632" align="alignnone" width="1005"] Ile aux Cerfs with a view of the mountain chain Montagne Bambous at the west coast of Mauritius, Africa[/caption] Go Sub Scooter Diving A couple of decades ago, Mauritius was one of the few places in the world offering the Underwater Sea Walk. While the same is still doable, the island now has a new and novel attraction that allows you to appreciate its marine life from up-close.  Sub Scooter Diving is among the essential things to do in Mauritius today, partly because you cannot enjoy this thrilling ride anywhere else on the planet. Ideal for people who cannot go scuba diving, the scooter is a contraption where you sit comfortably, placing your head in a glass dome that stays water-free.  Similar to an on-land moped, the Sub Scooter accommodates two passengers and has a steering wheel for underwater manoeuvrability. It can go down to 3 meters and ride up to 4km/hour. This 30-minute excursion is available only through Blue Safari in Trou-aux-Biches.           Take a Helicopter Island Tour When landing on the island, most tourists manage to only catch a fleeting glimpse of Mauritius from high above. However, for a memorable bird's eye view of Mauritius' coastline and topography, nothing beats the excitement of a helicopter island tour. Although slightly expensive, it is unquestionably one of the most romantic things to do in Mauritius.      There are several helicopter tour operators around the island. The pilot acts as a guide during the flight, pointing out the island's many wonders. Helicopter rides typically last anywhere from 20 to 30 minutes. While every tour has a different route, they all cover some of the major tourist attractions of Mauritius. Now, we know that the entire island of Mauritius is paradisiacal, especially when observed from the clouds. Nevertheless, when booking your helicopter tour in Mauritius, make sure that it includes flying over Blue Bay, Black River Gorge, Île aux Fouquets Lighthouse, and the Le Morne underwater waterfalls.   [caption id="attachment_51633" align="alignnone" width="1005"] Aerial view of the underwater waterfall and Le Morne Brabant peninsula. Amazing Mauritius landscape[/caption] Shop at the Port Louis Central Market The Central Market of Port Louis is a little chaotic, but it presents a wonderful occasion to immerse yourself into everyday Mauritian life. Constructed by the French in the 18th century, the market spreads over several floors, with each section designated to a different product.  For tourists, the Central Market is the go-to place to purchase everything from local produce, artisanal goods, and clothing to watches, shoes, and unique handicrafts. A day shopping in the market is also the perfect opportunity to test your bargaining skills. While in Port Louis and looking to shop, also remember to visit Le Caudan Waterfront. It is the oldest shopping centre in Mauritius, with an idyllic harbourside location. Furthermore, Le Caudan Waterfront has some of the city's best boutiques, cafes, and restaurants.     [caption id="attachment_51634" align="alignnone" width="1005"] Long exposure at Central Market Port Louis[/caption] Win Big at Champs de Mars You might be in one of the most beautiful destinations of the world with a loved one, but is Lady Luck also travelling with you? Find out at Champs de Mars, the oldest racing track in the Southern Hemisphere. Established in 1812 and located in Port Louis, the racecourse is also a historic destination. For it was on these grounds in 1968 that Mauritius finally declared its independence from the British. Additionally, it is home to a statue of King Edward the VII and the Malartic Tomb. The latter is an obelisk honouring Anne Joseph Hippolyte de Maurès, the island's French Governor, from 1792 to 1800.  Nowadays, horse racing takes place at Champs de Mars every weekend from April to November. Even if you are not interested in gambling, it is worth visiting the track on race days to relish its lively atmosphere.  [caption id="attachment_51635" align="alignnone" width="1005"] View from the observation deck in the Fort Adelaide on the Port Louis capital of Mauritius. The Champ de Mars Racecourse[/caption]  

Fiji to Accept Foreign Tourist After a 20-Month Hiatus

02nd Dec 2021 0

Fiji has returned to foreign tourism after a 20-month hiatus since the arrival of its first international flight. On Wednesday (1st December), the South Pacific islands welcomed fully vaccinated travelers from "travel partner" countries, with the first flight from Sydney arriving at 11.25 a.m. with 300 passengers. Despite the emergence of the novel Omicron form of the virus, Fiji, which has more than 90% of its indigenous people properly vaccinated against Covid-19, has decided to proceed with its reopening plans. Tourism Fiji's chief executive, Brent Hill, said: “It’s such an exciting day for Fiji and for our tourism industry. It’s been a long time coming. “From airline to accommodation, Fiji tourism operators and related services have worked hard to ensure and uphold internationally benchmarked Covid-safety practices. “The resumption of both domestic and international tourism is a credit to Fiji’s collective commitment for public safety, and safe and seamless travel, coupled with our famous Bula spirit.” Travelers to Fiji must be fully vaccinated, with children under the age of 18 allowed to travel with a vaccinated adult, and must come from one of a number of travel partner nations, including the United Kingdom and Ireland. Those over the age of 12 must also have a negative PCR test result 72 hours before flying to the islands.

Emerald Azzurra Completed Initial Sea Trials With Flying Colors

29th Nov 2021 0

Emerald Azzurra, Emerald Cruises' first custom-built superyacht, has completed its initial sea trials with flying colors. The sailings took place over 48 hours in Ha Long, Vietnam. Before the inaugural voyage on 28th January 2022, the ship will receive its final touches and the crew's training will be completed. The Emerald Azzurra, a 100-passenger ship, will debut with an eight-day Best of the Red Sea program. Scenic Group founder and chairman Glen Moroney, who owns Emerald Cruises and Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours, said: “During Emerald Azzurra’s sea trials, all design parameters were exceeded, including speed, noise, vibration and overall comfort and manoeuvrability while sailing. “Emerald Azzurra really is a very special superyacht, and will undoubtedly deliver a fantastic experience for our guests.” Emerald Azzurra joins Emerald Cruises' fleet of nine river-cruising Star-Ships as the company's tenth vessel. Emerald Luna, Emerald Cruises' tenth Star-Ship, will join the fleet in the spring of next year, followed by Emerald Sakara, Emerald Cruises' second superyacht, in early 2023.

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6 Awesome Things To Do in Bonaire

27th Nov 2021 0

Bonaire is one of the underrated natural gems of the Caribbean. Often referred to as “diver’s paradise,” the island is teeming with distinct flora and fauna, both above and below the water.  Situated about 80km off the shores of Venezuela, Bonaire comes under Dutch municipality. It also forms a part of the ABC group of islands along with Aruba and Curaçao. Having an area of 288 square kilometres, almost 20,000 people call Bonaire their home. The majority of the population on the island is Dutch. Bonaire’s capital, Kralendijk, is its main cruise port. A colourful little town perfect for a stroll and some shopping, Kralendijk makes for a pleasant introduction to Bonaire’s laidback personality.  Even though many cruise ships visit the island, Bonaire primarily attracts die-hard nature and water lovers. If planning to spend more than a couple of days on the island, make sure you rent a scooter. It is the best way to travel around and explore some of the hidden nooks of the island.  In terms of excursions, Bonaire’s relatively small size doesn’t hold it back from offering some of the most unique and fun activities in the Caribbean.  So, whether you are holidaying on the island for the first time or are a repeat visitor, here are some of the most incredible things to do in Bonaire.  Tour the Cadushy Distillery Are you interested in trying a one-of-a-kind drink while in Bonaire? If yes, head straight to Cadushy Distillery, responsible for making the world’s only cactus liqueur. Because of its uniqueness, a tour of Cadushy is among the unmissable things to do in Bonaire. Started in 2009 by Eric and Jolanda Gietman, Cadushy Distillery is in the centre of Rincon, the oldest settlement of the island. Visitors at the distillery get to learn about the process of concocting this exceptional drink, made by mixing kadushi cactus (found in abundance on the island) with lime, sorghum, and a special spice mix. The final beverage has a lovely bright green colour. You can have this special island drink straight or mix it up with a variety of cocktails.  The distillery tour is also a wonderful opportunity to know more about the history of other Bonaire spirits. Moreover, much to the delight of tourists, all tours end with a tasting.     [caption id="attachment_51202" align="alignnone" width="1005"] Rincon - Bonaire; The village of Rincon was founded in 1527, and holds currently around 1800 inhabitants. In Rincon also the Cadushy distillery where they make liquor from cactus trees. Rincon was a slave village from the Dutch, people from Rincon (men) worked during the week in the Saltpans, and the women were working on the plantages.[/caption] Learn Wind Surfing at Jibe City Jibe City is, without a doubt, the coolest place to chill out in Bonaire. This beach club and windsurfing centre have a bohemian and friendly vibe, making it a favourite among water sports lovers, couples, and families. Situated on the island’s east coast, Jibe City borders Lac Bay, the largest lagoon in the area. Consequently, the shallow waters are ideal to snorkel and for children to play carefree. Furthermore, the windy disposition of the location makes it the best place to enjoy thrilling water sports. On offer at Jibe City are kite and windsurfing rentals, lessons for kids and adults, paddle boarding, and yoga on the beach or on paddleboards. The centre also has sun loungers with umbrellas and a bar offering a range of drinks and snacks. Visitors can further enjoy a table barbeque featuring freshly caught fish at the bar. If you feel a day is not enough, Jibe City also has accommodation options.   [caption id="attachment_51203" align="alignnone" width="1005"] A view of Jibe City windsurfing centre on the island of Bonaire, one of the Netherlands/Dutch Antilles, in the Caribbean.[/caption] Kayak through a Mangrove Forest Another must-do attraction to cross out from your things to do in Bonaire checklist is a leisurely sail through the island’s 850-years-old mangrove forest. You can do this while spending a day at Jibe City, which is near the Lac Bay mangrove forest.  To maximize this experience, take a glass-bottom kayak through the dense vegetation of the mangroves. The trip is an excellent occasion to appreciate the natural beauty of Bonaire below and above the water. Since the mangroves fall under Bonaire Marine Park, a protected area, it’s best to take a tour with a guide. While the guide can take you to otherwise inaccessible regions of the park and point out different birds, the glass-bottom kayak lets you enjoy the fascinating aquatic life residing underwater in the mangroves.   [caption id="attachment_51204" align="alignnone" width="1005"] A groep of tourists sets off for a guided kayak tour in the Lac Bai Mangrove Reserve on Bonaire, Caribbean[/caption] Visit the Donkey Sanctuary A fun and educational place to spend an afternoon with the family on the island is the Bonaire Donkey Sanctuary. Started in 1993 by the husband-and-wife team of Ed Koopman and Marina Melis, this expansive haven now hosts over 700 donkeys. The couple and their team take care of all donkeys, whether they need food, health care, or don’t have a home. The donkeys in the sanctuary are friendly creatures who love to interact with humans. You can visit this shelter and travel around the grounds by car, bike, or even on foot.  The staff at the sanctuary is an enthusiastic bunch forever eager to educate visitors about donkeys and other animals on the island. You can also purchase carrots from the entrance and feed the donkeys while touring the sanctuary.    [caption id="attachment_51207" align="alignnone" width="1005"] Wild donkeys of Bonaire were brought to the island by Spaniards in the 16th century. Nowadays they are being taken care of in the animal shelter Donkey Sanctuary Bonaire supported by donators and sponsors.[/caption] Snorkel around Klein Bonaire Among the essential things to do in Bonaire is to go snorkelling. You can easily snorkel off the coast, but the underwater life near Klein Bonaire is especially spectacular. Klein Bonaire is a small, flat, uninhabited island about 800 meters from Bonaire.  Since the area around the island is a protected reserve, a local catamaran tour is an ideal way to visit the best snorkel locations near Klein Bonaire. Furthermore, boat trips typically include professional guides, underwater photographers, snorkel equipment, snacks, and even alcoholic drinks on your way back.  As long as you are confident about swimming in the sea, snorkelling in Klein Bonaire is perfect even for first-timers. The boats usually stop near areas with a gentle current that makes it easy to swim without much of an effort. Promising crystal-clear waters, the sea around Klein Bonaire is brimming with grouper, parrotfish, various corals, turtles, rays, bonefish, angelfish, and many more fascinating marine creatures.     [caption id="attachment_51209" align="alignnone" width="1005"] Coral reef off the coast of the island of Bonaire[/caption] Go Scuba Diving Saving the best for last, scuba diving is one of the main things to do in Bonaire. It is also the island’s biggest attraction, enticing hundreds of divers from around the globe to visit Bonaire every year.  The waters around the island are a cornucopia of vibrant aquatic life featuring colourful corals, a melange of fish, sharks, hawksbill turtles, and manta rays. There are over 80 diving spots in the vicinity of Bonaire, several of which are accessible from the shore. Moreover, Bonaire offers some excellent wreck diving possibilities, unlike anywhere else in the world.  Among the most popular diving spots in Bonaire are 1000 Steps (don’t worry, you don’t have to go down a thousand steps), the wreck of freighter Hilma Hooker that lies at a depth of 18 to 30 meters, and Bari Reef, a shore dive with calm waters ideal for beginners. Bonaire also has several PADI-certified dive centres that offer tours and courses. The courses are for both first-timers and professional divers wanting to add more challenging dives to their repertoire.   [caption id="attachment_51210" align="alignnone" width="1005"] Woman diver photographing the reef. Bonaire[/caption]

Flybe to Relaunch in Early 2022

22nd Nov 2021 0

Flybe has revealed that the new airline will be based in Birmingham rather than Exeter, where it was previously situated. This will be Flybe's third incarnation after a consortium led by Virgin purchased the airline but was unable to turn it around owing to the epidemic. Flybe will begin operations in early 2022, serving "important locations" across the UK and EU. The routes have yet to be determined. Flybe historically operated flights to 70 airports in 13 countries, according to data specialists Cirium (one country accounting for the UK and the domestic flights operated by the carrier). I don't think anything like that will happen at first. Flybe CEO Dave Pflieger said: “We are thrilled to be partnering with Birmingham Airport (BHX), the City of Birmingham, and the Mayor of West Midlands to make BHX the location of our new headquarters and first crew base. It was an ideal choice for us due to its great people and highly skilled workforce, its central UK location, and the fact that Birmingham Airport is a global travel hub where local and connecting customers have access to over 150 worldwide destinations. Today’s announcement marks the culmination of over 12 months of dedicated hard work by all involved, and it would not have been possible without the support of the CAA and the UK Government.”  

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Global Homes: A guide to buying better souvenirs to create a globally-inspired homestead

14th Nov 2021 0

The desire to bring a souvenir home from vacation is a common experience that most of us share. Having a physical token to remember your most cherished memories sounds, in principle, like the best way to commemorate your travels. But the truth is, many of us have been buying souvenirs wrong. Over time, pieces that were not chosen with a specific purpose in mind become obsolete and fade into the background of your life. At the end of the day, there are only so many neon t-shirts, fridge magnets, shot glasses, and kitchy wooden fish a person can actually make use of. Smaller souvenirs get shoved in junk drawers and closets, and bigger splurges end up in basements and storage units. Eventually, you find yourself wondering why you ever bought all of that “stuff” in the first place.  What if we told you there was a better way? What if buying the right souvenirs could mean curating a collection of meaningful, lasting pieces in your home. Especially if you are someone who travels often, the globally-inspired decor is probably nothing new to you, so why not buy your pieces direct from the source? Well, good news! We’ve created a guide to help you purchase your souvenirs intentionally to create an elegant, tasteful and multicultural home.  Pieces Worth Investing In:  Artwork  When considering pieces that a functional use within your home, the artwork is going to be the most obvious. Paintings, prints, and other framable works are also a great starting point for the design on any room by determining colour palette, style or tone.  [caption id="attachment_50906" align="alignnone" width="1005"] Collection of different types of handmade framed paintings in the workshop.[/caption] Sculpture  In a similar way, sculpture can add visual interest to coffee tables, end tables, bookshelves, and hallways. We recommend focusing on the sculpture medium and how it will fit into your house. Wood, marble, and neutral-coloured stone will work well with boho, minimalistic or monochrome designs, but will also fit seamlessly into more elaborate, coloured spaces. Try to avoid buying bright pieces that will disrupt your current decor and be mindful of the size. Pieces that are too small may come off as knick-knack clutter and too large will quickly take over a room. Buy consciously after making a decision about whether or not you want to make a statement, or complement what’s already there.    Pottery and Housewares  If you’re more interested in adding design value through functional pieces, consider investing in local pottery and housewares. A great set of dinner plates, serving dishes, a water pitcher, or a vase will impress your dinner party guests in a more understated way. They will serve as a wonderful conversation starter and will only replace things you already have/need rather than adding to your ever-increasing collection of “stuff”. The key here is to focus on traditional styles, hand-thrown/hand-painted pottery and pieces direct from local artisans- A set of glasses from an international shopping mall doesn’t count!  [caption id="attachment_50905" align="alignnone" width="1005"] Female potter using laptop in art studio[/caption] Masks  Starting a multi-cultural mask collection can be very intimidating at first. After all, there are so many different styles, materials and some are “scarier” than others if we’re being frank. But trust us when we say that a well-curated wall of masks can add a classy, expensive-looking, global touch to your home.  [caption id="attachment_50902" align="alignnone" width="1005"] Nepal souvenir is very best in unique or custom, handmade pieces from local.[/caption] Textiles  Tapestries, dreamcatchers, macrame, needlepoint, quilts…..Choose a unique dressing for the bed to carry the global theme into the bedroom, or choose some fabric/yarn-based pieces to carry texture up onto your walls.  [caption id="attachment_50903" align="alignnone" width="1005"] Three big dreamcatchers hanging on the bed head.[/caption] Design Tips:  How you make use of your global home decor is just as important as bringing home the right pieces. Here are some design tips to get you started:  Choose one  Be intentional with your purchases. Rather than spending your “souvenir” allowance on a dozen tee-shirts, keychains, magnets, and postcards choose to invest in one, quality item that will have value in your home. We say “investment” because we know it is going to cost you more for each item, but in the grand scheme of things, you will save money and get much more return (monetarily and emotionally) than you would buy inexpensive knickknacks that get tossed into drawers and inevitably forgotten. These pieces are a better representation of the places you’ve been anyway, often reflecting the local culture and the people you met along your journey. That being said, even when investing in these statement decor pieces, understand that if you are someone who travels often, your statement pieces will add up and eventually overwhelm you. For this reason, it’s best just to buy the one piece you love the most rather than trying to stock up on decor for every room, on every holiday- no matter what your budget is. Buy with your design in mind  Visualize where exactly you intend to put this in your home. While some pieces, such as the odd vase or small print, may serve as a multi-functional piece that can float from room to room as your design evolves, you want to avoid buying items that may not fit into your current space. If you have a large piece of artwork and no blank walls, you might end up stockpiling souvenirs in the basement which is what you’re aiming to avoid.  Just as you would when furniture and decor shopping back home, you’re going to want to shop for pieces that fit into the design and colour scheme of your home. To avoid your “global” decor becoming an overly eclectic collection, you want to avoid buying in every colour of the rainbow. Think about the colour palette of each room and the functionality of the piece in that room.  [caption id="attachment_50904" align="alignnone" width="1005"] Eclectic living room interior with comfortable velvet corner sofa with pillows[/caption] Sticking with neutral colours and one accent colour that is popular in many cultures (such as reds and oranges) is a great way to achieve this cohesiveness, even with “souvenirs” from multiple destinations in the same space. You also want to think of the tone of your space. Does it give off a bohemian or a clean, modern art vibe that favours clean lines and geometrics? Only buy pieces that map on to the style of your home as it stands, or as you are re-defining it to be.  Buy direct from artisans, whenever possible  This should be pretty obvious, but buying direct from artisans is the best way to ensure the authenticity of the pieces in your collection. This can even add value to your collection- you never know what might be worth something someday. You will also feel good knowing that you have made ethical purchases and supported the locals which is an important factor of socially responsible tourism.  Buy pieces that tell a story  One of the biggest benefits of buying “souvenirs” that can be displayed in your home is their ability to transport you back to a moment in time. When you look at your collection of international decor, you will remember who you met, what you did that day, and how you felt. So choose pieces that will make you remember your travels. Choose the piece from the interesting artisan, the piece found in the unlikely place, or the piece that you found at the end of a chaotic day. Not only will these pieces have the power to remind you of your fondest memories, but they will also serve as fabulous conversation-starters during dinner parties for years to come.

Barbados Opens a Call Center for Overseas Visitors

08th Nov 2021 0

Barbados Tourism has built a tourism call center for overseas visitors. The Barbados Tourism Call Centre was established as a pilot operation during the height of the Covid-19 outbreak to give a direct line for assistance with travel protocols, test queries, and other tourism-related issues. As travel continues to rebound, Barbados Tourist Marketing Inc acknowledged that it has matured into one of the organization's most useful tools, serving as a complete hub for all tourism inquiries. Visitors can phone a toll-free number on the island or in their home markets to speak with one of Barbados' tourism providers, who can give callers full information on Barbados vacations. The Barbados Tourism Call Centre can also be reached through the website www.visitbarbados.org, which now includes a web chat option that tourism businesses can use. Since the trial project began in January, call center workers have handled more than 2,500 calls and 7,500 webchats from across the world, averaging around 100 calls and 300 webchats per week. Roseanne Myers, chair of the Barbados Tourism Board, said: “We recognise that travel in the Covid-19 era has become challenging, and as the leading tourism agency we have to do more to interact with our visitors to facilitate inbound and outbound travel. “The Tourism Call Centre is open 24/7 and has now become part of the way we do business. Each time the phone rings, a human voice answers and seeks to respond to those matters raised or direct callers towards a solution.” “The simple act of being able to pick up the phone and get immediate answers brings comfort to travellers at a time when everything in the world feels so uncertain. “We see this Call Centre as another tool in our hospitality arsenal that proves why, of all the destinations, Barbados remains known and loved for its warmth and inviting people.” *Contact the Barbados Tourism Call Centre from the UK on 08000163098.

First Commercial Flight from Australia to the UK

02nd Nov 2021 0

Qantas' service from Sydney to Heathrow, via Darwin, took off today, marking the first commercial flight from Australia to the United Kingdom in nearly 600 days. Apart from its Trans-Tasman connection with New Zealand, QF1 was one of the first commercial foreign flights from Australia since the Covid epidemic. On 1st November, it departed Sydney at 6:30 p.m. local time. The QF12 flight from Los Angeles to Sydney was the first to land in Australia, arriving at 6 a.m. local time with no border or quarantine restrictions for fully-vaccinated passengers. Due to a higher-than-expected uptake of Covid-19 vaccines in Australia, the country's foreign travel resumption date was moved up from 14th November to 1st November. Australian citizens, permanent residents, and their immediate families and parents are the only people who will be able to fly on the inaugural services. Flights to additional Qantas locations are expected to resume in the following weeks.

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Spending a day at Warner Beach Park - Madrid’s fun and family friendly water park

01st Nov 2021 0

Seen by many as a weekend city break, Madrid also has so much to offer as a vacation destination. Even though it is 200 miles from the nearest beach, as summer holidays go Madrid provides everything else you could possibly want and need. From the beautiful hotels to stay in; the bar, cafes, and restaurants on every corner; the many parks and open spaces to roam and enjoy the weather in; and the countless attractions to spend a day, both inside and just outside the city, Madrid has it all. And for some, summer vacation is just not complete without a day out at a water park - which luckily for them can also be found here in Madrid.  Just south of central Madrid you will find Warner Beach Park or Parque Warner Beach. Created in 2014 as a sister park to the already established Warner Theme Park next door, this fantastic day out offers you the opportunity to enjoy the sunshine and warm weather alongside the slides, rides, and great eateries. Modeled towards providing great fun for the whole family, the park offers something great for all age groups. The park sits approximately 30km south of the city. If you have rented a car great; finding the park is easy and parking is plentiful (it will cost you €11 to leave your car for the day), or you can hop in a taxi for around 60 euros. Alternatively, you can take a train from anywhere in and around Madrid to nearby Pinto (around a 40-minute journey from Sol, central Madrid), and then jump on either the number 412 or 414 which will take you right to the park gates. [caption id="attachment_50580" align="alignnone" width="800"] Harley Quinn: La Huida[/caption] A standard Adult and Junior ticket will cost around €25 when bought online, depending on the day, although there are various discounts and promotions that can be found either online or by signing up to their newsletter. Tickets bought at the park ticket office on the day can be double the cost so make sure you book as far in advance as possible. Children under 100cm go free.  Once here the short walk from the carpark to the entrance gives a glimpse of the great day ahead, with the familiar Looney Tunes props and characters greeting you along the way. Once inside you are able to cast your eye across the majority of the park, with the main rides to your right, the sandy beach area and wave pool to your left, and the children’s area ahead.    First for the little ones; Warner beach caters to toddlers and children fantastically. Agua Aventura, an island of 14 slides, water spouts, and cascading fountains galore provides hours of fun. Split into two, one half offers a calmer (if only slightly!) section for babies and toddlers to splash about in, and another 'island of slides' for older children. Don’t expect to stay dry here for a single second, with water flying at you from all directions. Also perfect for the younger guests is the Baby Olas wave pool, right next to the beach and main wave pool; where babies and toddlers can splash in the shallows overlooked by the Looney Tunes and their beach huts. [caption id="attachment_50577" align="alignnone" width="800"] Baby Olas Parque Warner Beach[/caption] For the older kids and adults, Warner Beach has 6 slides in total. 4 of these are rubber ring rides; The Batman ride and Harley Quinn, both where up to 4 people can fly down the flume in darkness, accompanied by flashing lights and sound effects; Wonder Women: Jump to Paradise where two people share a double ring; and the Joker where you are thrown down the chutes solo.  Superman: El Veuolo takes everything up a notch, where you will race side by side, head first on a mat against your fellow racegoers. The final and most exhilarating experience at the park belongs to Wonder Woman: El Lazo Mágico, which requires you to enter a perspex capsule and wait nervously for the floor to drop out from under you where you will then hurtle down the flume at speed. [caption id="attachment_50578" align="alignnone" width="800"] Wonder Woman: El Lazo Mágico[/caption] The other attractions away from the slides include the wave pool, Playa Malibu, next to the beach section, and the Rio Loco. The latter will in no way be the laziest river you will ever ride, what with its cascading waterfall, however, you will still be able to relax back on the rubber rings whilst you snake around the park. Like most parks, great weather and weekend crowds can make for a busy day. Queues for the main rides can build up with lines of up to an hour, so if possible choosing to visit Monday-Friday can make for a much calmer day, where you can enjoy the slides over again. Alternatively, Warner Beach does offer a flash pass for a cost of only 17 euros, which allows queue jump, and for those super busy days is well worth the money. [caption id="attachment_50579" align="alignnone" width="800"] Bamm Bamm Chicken & Fries[/caption] With all the energy needed to sustain you for a whole day of excitement, refueling with some food and drink is obviously a must. Dotted around the park are various themed ‘food vans’; Bamm Bamm Chicken & Fries, Scooby-Doo Naam Naam, offering sandwiches and pizzas, and DinoDogs. In addition to these, there are three other cafes, offering everything from french fries and the usual fast food, to BBQ food, salads, plates of pasta, and desserts. For adults, the park does sell beer and cocktails if you fancy an afternoon cerveza in the sun. Expect to pay usual theme park prices for fast-food standard cuisine and, as is for most parks, you aren’t able to bring your own food or drink into the park (excluding water and baby food) and they do check bags on entry.  [caption id="attachment_50576" align="alignnone" width="800"] Agua Aventura Madrid[/caption] Throughout the park, there are sunbeds and parasols in abundance and you are able to base yourself wherever suits; whether it be next to the children's section, on the beach next to the wave pool, or to the far side the pool behind the lazy river. On entry, you are given a band with which you can tie around the sunbeds to show that they are occupied, although leaving towels on the beds whilst away from them seems enough. There is also a VIP section within the park where overlooking the wave pool, you can relax in exclusivity. Purchasing this VIP ticket for €80 also provides you with a flash pass, complimentary food, and drink, premium lounges, and lockers. Overall the Warner Beach offers everything you could want from your waterpark experiences. Absolutely this does not compete with the likes of Blizzard Beach and the other Orlando water parks so hopefully, you won’t expect it to, but for the price you pay, Warner Beach will give you a day of fun and memories and is well worth visiting as part of your holiday in Madrid.

Barbados Relaxed Entry Requirements for Fully Vaccinated Guests

24th Oct 2021 0

Barbados has relaxed its entry requirements for guests who are fully vaccinated, with the modifications taking effect on Sunday (24th October). Travelers who are fully vaccinated and have a negative Covid-19 PCR test result will no longer be needed to undergo a second Covid-19 PCR test or follow a quarantine period upon arrival in Barbados. Health officials at Grantley Adams International Airport, the island's international gateway, may choose fully vaccinated visitors at random for a quick antigen arrival test. These passengers must take the free speedy arrival test at the airport, wait for the findings, then leave the airport using only allowed conveyance. Unvaccinated travelers must still present a negative Covid-19 test result obtained no more than three days prior to arrival; depart the airport using only approved transportation; quarantine for five days at approved lodging; and, after quarantine, take a mandatory second Covid-19 PCR test at one of the approved labs or testing hotels located throughout the island at their own expense. They must remain in quarantine until the second Covid-19 PCR test results are received.

Air Canada's Summer Transatlantic Flights from Edinburgh and Manchester will Resume

15th Oct 2021 0

Air Canada's summer transatlantic flights from Edinburgh and Manchester will resume in June of next year. The announcement came as the airline released its summer 2022 itinerary for Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and India. In addition to established year-round routes to London and Dublin, the airline is resuming summer seasonal service to Barcelona, Venice, Nice, and Reykjavik. Seasonal flights to Athens, Rome, and Lisbon restarted in 2021 and will continue next spring, along with a recently launched flight to Cairo. Mark Galardo, senior vice president of network planning and revenue management, stated: “As we continue to rebuild our global network, Air Canada is excited to plan its return to these popular leisure destinations across Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, offering its customers to explore the world again. “Our schedule will enable convenient onward travel through our Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal and Calgary hubs to and from our global destinations.”

Centurion Lounge Opens at Heathrow Airport

12th Oct 2021 0

The Centurion Lounge, part of American Express's hallmark airport lounge program, has opened at London Heathrow Airport. The lounge, which will be located in Terminal 3, will be the first Centurion Lounge in Europe and American Express' third Centurion Lounge to open this year. Pablo Rivero, Vice President & General Manager, Global Lounge Experiences, “We are thrilled to introduce the Centurion Lounge experience to our Card Members traveling through London’s Heathrow Airport and make their return to travel even more special. From bespoke interior design to signature bites from a Michelin-Star chef, we continue to raise the bar for airport lounges by providing truly unique, top-notch premium experiences.” The new lounge will be over 7,000 square feet (650 square meters) in size and will exemplify London's vibrancy and charm while incorporating the trademark amenities Card Members have come to expect. The new location will include locally manufactured custom design features as well as one-of-a-kind amenities. American Express Platinum and Centurion cardholders get access to the new lounge.

Qantas to Resume Sydney-London Service by 14th November

04th Oct 2021 0

Qantas will resume its Sydney-London service on 14th November, after the announcement by the Australian government that the country's borders will reopen next month. The national carrier will conduct a three-weekly return service on its Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners. Flights for Australian citizens, permanent residents, and their immediate families are now available. The airline will also resume a three-weekly return service from Sydney to Los Angeles. It said that the two places have been the most sought destinations on its website in recent weeks, and that capacity will be raised if necessary. Flights will be relocated earlier or later than the 14th of November, depending on when Australia opens its borders. Customers who purchase these flights will be able to make 'fee-free' date modifications until 31st December 2022. If a flight is canceled, customers may be entitled to a refund or credit voucher. All international passengers on Qantas flights will be required to be fully vaccinated and to provide a negative PCR test 72 hours prior to departure. Customers will also have to stay in quarantine for seven days after arriving in Australia. Alan Joyce, CEO of Qantas Group, stated that the early reopening of Australia's borders is critical. Says, "mean so much to so many people". "We know Australians can’t wait to travel overseas and be reunited with their loved ones, and literally thousands are waiting to come back home, so this faster restart is fantastic news. It also means we can get more of our people back to work, sooner," he remarked.

O2 Beach Club & Spa, a New Premium All-inclusive Hotel to Open in Barbados in October

28th Sep 2021 0

In October, the O2 Beach Club & Spa, a new premium all-inclusive hotel on Barbados' south coast, will open. The resort, which was previously known as Ocean Two Resort & Residences, has been redesigned and repositioned, and will soft debut on 1st October. A month later, on 1st November, the official opening will take place. The hotel has a new modern design, accommodation, a variety of eating options, bars, and lounges, enhanced amenities, and a new premium all-inclusive concept that includes food and drink, spa treatments, and a variety of resort activities and island adventures. The O2 Beach Club & Spa has 130 rooms and suites organized into three collections: the Club Collection, which includes 18 spacious ocean view or beachfront rooms; the Luxury Collection, which includes 42 adult-only suites; and the Concierge Collection, which includes 72 suites. The Luxury Collection Suites are housed in a new nine-story tower with a fine dining restaurant and rooftop pool. Several swim-up suites are available, providing direct access to the adult-only river pool from the seclusion of their own patios. The Luxury Collection Suites and the Concierge Collection Suites both have views of the Caribbean Sea and include a bottle of Champagne on arrival, a daily pre-stocked mini-bar with wine, a personalized concierge service, a spa credit per adult per stay, unlimited access to sister hotel the Sea Breeze Beach House during the day, and one golf game per person during the day. Cocktail necessities in the pre-stocked minibar, in-room stocked grocery goods for the suite's kitchen on request, and a Concierge Ambassador service is also included in Concierge Collection Suites. A European eatery with 260-degree views of the south coast, a seaside grill, a nautical-themed rooftop tapas restaurant, and seven bars and lounges with a selection of spirits, wines, champagne, and cocktails are among the dining and beverage options. A trio of swimming pools, including a rooftop pool, an adult-only river pool with a swim-up bar, and a selection of whirlpools on the sun terrace, is also available, with treatments crafted around the idea of ‘Wellness Through Water' and the island's first Bajan Hammam experience. Water activities such as boogie boards, Hobie cats, and windsurfing are available to active guests and are overseen by Barbados Olympian O'Neal Marshall. Mixology workshops, steel pan drumming, salsa dance, rooftop yoga, and cooking classes are among the activities available on land. Catamaran cruises, 4x4 jeep safaris, scuba diving, snorkeling, deep-sea fishing, golf, and horseback riding are just a few of the island activities available outside of the resort. “We wanted to bring a taste of the island’s west coast luxury to the south coast and are confident that our new O2 Beach Club & Spa will take center-stage in Barbados' luxury boutique offering with its exclusive accommodation, world-class dining, and personalized service - while at the same time maintaining the fun, casual vibe of the south coast,” Patricia Affonso-Dass, group general manager of Ocean Hotels Group said. "From the moment they arrive, we want our guests to feel like the newest VIP members of the coolest Beach Club in Barbados. “We are really looking forward to working with our agent and trade partners to showcase the new premium all-inclusive and luxury five-star experience of the O2 Beach Club & Spa to the UK consumer as well as hosting as many agents as we can so they can experience our new product for themselves.”

Thailand Reopening Date Pushed Back

25th Sep 2021 0

The intended reopening date has been pushed back, as is customary in Thailand. It was supposed to reopen on October 1st, along with four other provinces. It was then postponed until 15th October. Because each province's vaccination percentage still falls short of 70% coverage, the reopening plan for five provinces may be postponed by a month, to 1st November. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has stated that the October plan may be pushed back to 1st November because of the requirement that each location inoculates 70% of its population. Chiang Mai, Chon Buri, Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, and Bangkok are the five provinces affected. In its early stages, Chiang Mai is ready to accommodate guests under the 7+7 extension program from the Phuket sandbox. Tourism demand will be assessed before the next phase of the reopening, which will include direct flights, begins in January 2022. The plan for Chiang Mai to resume domestic travel on 1st October remains unchanged. The winter season is still the best time to visit Chiang Mai, especially now that the third phase of We Travel Together, a hotel subsidy, has resumed in October. Due to Krabi's ability to provide 15,000 doses per day, approximately 400,000 doses are required to obtain a vaccination rate of 70%. If the objective is met, it will be ready to reopen in its entirety by the end of October. By 31st October, international airlines from Singapore, Malaysia, and Scandinavia want to run five daily flights to Krabi airport.

Johnson to Push Biden to Lift US Travel Ban

20th Sep 2021 0

When Boris Johnson visits US President Joe Biden in Washington this week, he is expected to press for the easing of a travel ban to the United States. If successful, it is envisaged that the limitations on UK travelers will be lifted within two months. When they met at the G7 summit in Cornwall in June, both leaders promised to act by forming a task force, but little has happened to relax transatlantic travel restrictions to the US. Airlines like British Airways and Virgin Atlantic are yearning for a transatlantic breakthrough that would allow them to resume free travel on lucrative routes like London-New York. Carriers predict the US travel ban, which was enforced 18 months ago, will be overturned in November, just before Thanksgiving, allowing for Christmas vacations. At the beginning of August, the UK loosened its restrictions on US nationals, enabling double-vaccinated travelers to enter without being quarantined for ten days. For those who are double jabbed entering and leaving England next month, other limitations, including the need for a PCR test, will be lifted. According to Downing Street, the prime minister used his Tuesday visit to the White House to seek ways to resume international travel. In discussions with Vice President Kamala Harris and congressional leaders from both parties, including Nancy Pelosi and Mitch McConnell, Johnson will have the opportunity to place UK-US travel on the broader Washington agenda. The Telegraph quoted a senior government source as saying: “The prime minister will make an impassioned case for Brits who’ve been double jabbed to be allowed to travel to the US. There are a lot of family links, business links and millions of tourists usually travel every year.” In a normal year, more than four million Britons travel to the United States, but during the pandemic and strong US restrictions, only a fraction of those trips have taken place. Tim Alderslade, CEO of Airlines UK, told The Times: “The US is one of our most indispensable markets, worth billions every year to both countries in trade and tourism. “Our exports can never reach their true potential as long as this key air link remains closed to British companies, and we urge both governments to redouble their efforts to reach an agreement as quickly as possible.” Johnson will be accompanied on the trip by new Foreign Secretary Liz Truss, who will be making her first international travel in her new job. According to the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), “Discussions will focus on G7 priorities and climate change in the run up to COP26.”

Royal Caribbean Reveals Wonder of the Seas to Sail in Mediterranean by Next Summer

17th Sep 2021 0

A new announcement from Royal Caribbean International reveals that Wonder of the Seas will sail in the Mediterranean the next summer. It will depart from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on 4th March 2022, and cruise to the Caribbean, before traveling to Barcelona and Rome in May for the summer season. Seeing a "substantial rise" in bookings from Europe and the United Kingdom, the cruise line is bringing an Oasis Class ship to satisfy demand. As of today, you may book the Caribbean sailings on Royal Caribbean's website; European sailings will be accessible on 22nd September, according to a press release. As in 2022, the Allure of the Seas Mediterranean itineraries will be replaced by the Wonder of the Seas Mediterranean itineraries. On Wednesday, 15th September, Allure will begin sailing from Fort Lauderdale on six- and eight-night Caribbean itineraries. When Allure's Mediterranean sailings in 2022 come to an end, passengers booked on Allure will be automatically rebooked to cruise on Wonder. Passengers and travel partners who are affected will be notified with additional information. Royal Caribbean International's president and CEO, Michael Bayley, said: “The momentum taking off across bookings and our returning ships in the US and Europe is significant. “With half of our fleet sailing again, we are encouraged by what we’re seeing. These regions are in the position to welcome a brand-new, innovative ship like Wonder of the Seas.” The seven-night Caribbean sailings from Fort Lauderdale will visit destinations such as Cozumel, Mexico; Philipsburg, St Maarten; and San Juan, Puerto Rico – as well as Royal Caribbean’s private island destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay. Its inaugural European season will start in May with seven-night cruises from Barcelona and Rome. The ship has a capacity for 6,000 passengers and new features include the Suite Neighborhood; a cantilevered pool bar named The Vue; and Wonder Playscape – an interactive, open-air kids’ play area. As with other Oasis Class ships, it also offers the tallest slide at sea, The Ultimate Abyss; the FlowRider surf simulator; twin rock-climbing walls; and the 10-deck-high zip line. The vessel is the fifth in the line’s Oasis Class and was originally scheduled to enter service from Shanghai next March.  

World’s Busiest Airport Revealed: Amsterdam

09th Sep 2021 0

The world's busiest airport has a new location, and it's not where you'd expect. According to aviation data researchers OAG, Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport was crowned as the world's busiest international airport in August. The airport's large increase was most likely due to Europe's summer season beginning, with travel-starved travelers flying from nation to country. OAG measures the winning airport as the ‘busiest' by looking at the scheduled capacity in any given month, putting it ahead of the previous number one – Dubai. For example, in August, Schiphol had a capacity of 2,511,321 seats, while Dubai had 2,312,381 seats. Despite coming out on top, Turkey's Antalya airport recorded the largest increase in capacity. The airport was ranked 10th in August, up from 30th in August of last year. “Antalya is a popular coastal resort in southern Turkey, and the Russian Federation and Germany account for slightly over two-thirds of its international market,” OAG said in a statement.

Tunisair to Fly from Stansted in Spring Next Year

06th Sep 2021 0

Tunisair will begin flying from Stansted in the spring of next year, connecting the Essex airport with Tunisia's capital. According to Air Journal, two weekly flights to Tunis will begin on 28th March, replacing a twice-weekly service to Gatwick. Until then, the carrier will continue to fly to Gatwick. The Stansted flight will leave at 17.55 on Mondays and Thursdays, arriving in Tunis at 20.55. The trip to the United Kingdom departs at 13.50 and arrives at 16.55. The capital of Tunisia is known for its Roman ruins, the Bardo museum, and the neighboring beaches. Tunisair's Heathrow flights will be maintained during both seasons. It runs twice a week at the moment.

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Places you NEED to visit in Costa Rica

03rd Sep 2021 0

Growing up, I had a sheer fascination with the tropics. I was enchanted by the explosion of life that occurred in these regions, from see-through frogs to lizards that could run on water. But, whilst many of my peers were captivated by the ever-impressive Amazon jungle, another country had snagged my attention: Costa Rica.  Despite being no larger than West Virginia, Costa Rica is one of the most biodiverse places on our planet. It is thought that around 5% of all known plant and animal species, spread across the seven provinces, reside in an area occupying just 0.3% of Earth's landmass.  It seemed incredible to me that so many species can be packed into such a small space, yet the key to this immense diversity can be found within the topography of the country, and the associated effects it has on the climate.  Costa Rica sits upon tectonic plates, which over the years, have resulted in the formation of multiple volcanic mountain ranges. These natural barriers alter precipitation in regions, resulting in differing moisture and temperatures. This, coupled with more direct exposure to sunlight, has led to the eruption of life. But don’t let the size fool you. I have been fortunate enough to travel to Costa Rica many times, and each trip reveals something new to me. This article aims to explore some of my favorite places in the country and why you should visit them.    Arenal Volcano  Rising from the bountiful lowlands below, Arenal Volcano rises close to 2000 meters. An unavoidable presence, the region is adorned with nature and intricate geological formations. Despite being one of the most traveled areas of the country, this area is an iconic must-see.  Up until 2010, Arenal proved to be the most active volcano in Costa Rica, spewing lava and ash high into the sky. Today, you will not see any lave flows, instead, magnificent views of thick jungle and raging waterfalls. In this moist landscape, life is rife; from sleepy sloths to vibrant tree frogs. There is a wealth of activities to enjoy in this moist landscape, from forest hikes to whitewater rafting (if you’re feeling adventurous). My guilty pleasure, however, is relaxing in the hot springs found here. Geothermal vents naturally heat the waters around the volcano, creating one relaxing and pleasurable experience.  [caption id="attachment_49020" align="alignnone" width="1007"] The landscape of the Arenal volcano is surrounded by tropical rainforest on a sunny summer day near the cities of La Fortuna and San Jose, Costa Rica, Central America.[/caption]   Monteverde  Traveling slightly south of Arenal sits the mighty Reserve of Monteverde. Despite being neighbors, the ecosystem is incredibly different from that of Arenal. The twisting and stunted growth of the trees here give the illusion of a magical kingdom. But hurry, this cloud forest system won’t last forever. With our warming climate, temperature increases threaten to burn away that life-giving moisture. No wonder National Geographic has classified Monteverde as one of the top places to see before it disappears.  Whilst here, feel the rush of the wind in your hair as you zipline through the jungle or marvel at some 500 species of orchid found across the reserve. If you’re feeling brave, embark on a nighttime hike to spot some elusive jungle residents, such as big cats and snakes, or search for the rare resplendent quetzal high up on canopy walkways.    [caption id="attachment_49023" align="alignnone" width="1007"] Girl walking on hanging bridge in the cloud forest - Monteverde, Costa Rica - an adventure in Central America[/caption]   Guanacaste Province   This next entry isn’t just one place, per se. I have included the entire province of Guanacaste on my list, as there are so many places in the Northwestern region that are worth a spot. Spectacular beaches, unexplored jungles, surfing galore and laidback vibes are some of the many reasons Guanacaste is so special. Escape the jungle rains in one of the driest regions of the country. One of my favorite places, a surfing town called Nosara, can be found just a few hours from the Northern capital of Liberia. Offering remarkable sunsets, Nosara is truly a place to feel connected to Mother Earth. Whilst here, book a guide to explore the miracle that is Ostional; a beach where famous natural phenomena happen – witness thousands of sea turtles come ashore and lay their eggs in one night! Honestly, not only is it incredible to see, but it’s also a little emotional. I came close to shedding a tear (or two). [caption id="attachment_49025" align="alignnone" width="1007"] Waves coming in on the beach in Guanacaste[/caption]   Manuel Antonio  One of the smallest National Parks in Costa Rica, Manuel Antonio is certainly a jewel worth exploring. With an interesting assortment of plants and wildlife, the area has a unique atmosphere. To add to this, the beach within the national park has been voted as one of the best beaches in the world, lined with tropical forest and great snorkeling opportunities. Following the jungle, a multitude of trails can be found meandering throughout this 683-hectare reserve.  Outside the National Park, one can partake in many activities from whale watching tours to ATV tours. Migratory whales can be seen for 10 months of the year, as they pass through Costa Rican waters. Whilst at Manuel Antonio, why not try the famous copos: A beach-side delicacy consisting of shredded ice, milk, and flavored syrup.  [caption id="attachment_49026" align="alignnone" width="1007"] The main beach of Manuel Antonio Beautiful white sandy beach in Costa Rica.[/caption]   Corcovado (Osa Península) If you’re a nature lover, Corcovado is for you. For one, it is thought that the area around the Osa Peninsula has some of the highest biodiversity of ANYWHERE ON EARTH! There are many ecosystems to be found here, each yielding exciting opportunities. Explore secluded beaches, then rinse off in a rainforest waterfall after, whilst listening to the sounds of nature. The perfect place to hike and explore. But watch out: jaguar, dart frogs, eyelash vipers, and more can all be found here. If hiking isn’t for you, hop on a boat to Caño Island and take a plunge into the crystal-clear waters. The waters around this Island, just off the coast from the Osa, are bursting with life. To be able to discover what few have seen before is such a liberating feeling and that’s why it makes my list.    [caption id="attachment_49028" align="alignnone" width="1007"] A Pacific Ocean wave on a tropical beach inside Corcovado national park, Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica, Central America.[/caption]   Tortuguero  Similar to Corcovado, Tortuguero is a place to visit if you love nature. Situated in the Eastern province of Limon, Tortuguero is off the beaten track. Impassible by car, the only way to arrive here is by plane or boat. But don’t let that put you off, as the boat ride is the start of your natural journey. Referred to as “The Amazon of Costa Rica”, plentiful wildlife can be seen from the boat such as caiman, monkeys, and a wide variety of birds.  Whilst in Tortuguero, discover the waterways by kayak and negotiate the wild tributaries to get an up-close and personal encounter with many interesting species. Although, don’t forget to pack your raincoat as this area receives exceptionally high rainfall. We are in the tropics after all. This trip is for the inner explorer within, and the wealth of habitats and animals is remarkable, making Tortuguero a unique must-see.     [caption id="attachment_49029" align="alignnone" width="1007"] Sea turtle digging in the sand to put her eggs on August, in Tortuguero National Park, Costa Rica[/caption]   Puerto Viejo  The last stop on my list of places to visit in Costa Rica is the Caribbean town of Puerto Viejo. Still in Limon, we must travel South towards Panama to reach this electrifying town. Full of character, ambiance, food, and wildlife, Puerto Viejo is the perfect place to soak up the culture, whilst relaxing on some of the most pristine tropical beaches.  Unlike anywhere else in Costa Rica, it is as if you have gone on vacation, within your vacation. Colorful houses line the roads, the food is full of Caribbean flavor, infused with chili and coconut and there is a multitude of different dialects. Reggae music drifts in the breeze, and it’s hard not to smile.  Rainforests run parallel to kilometers of deserted beaches, allowing nature to thrive. The sun beats down (and sometimes the rain). This is the closest place to paradise I have set foot in.    [caption id="attachment_49030" align="alignnone" width="1007"] Costa Rica beach with lush vegetation on the Caribbean coast, Punta Uva, Puerto Viejo de Talamanca[/caption]   Costa Rica holds a very special place in my heart. The sheer diversity of nature alone is a huge stand-out for me. And whilst this is a huge part of it - with the breathtaking sunsets, golden beaches, crystal waters, and unique wildlife - it is not the only reason to fall in love with this Central American country. The people, the food, and the history all come into play, and there is so much more waiting to be discovered.  Pura Vida!

Princess Cruises to Set Sail With Paying Passengers

31st Aug 2021 0

For the first time in nearly 18 months, Princess Cruises' ship Sky Princess has set sail with paying passengers. The ship has begun a series of UK domestic sailings from Southampton as the fleet's third vessel to re-enter operation following the pandemic, which forced cruises to be canceled in March 2020. Sky Princess, which began service in 2019, has joined sister ship Regal Princess on a series of ‘sections around the UK. Sky Princess is only sailing in UK seas for vaccinated passengers on short scenic trips to Liverpool, Greenock, Belfast, and Portland until 5th October. Tony Roberts, vice president for the United Kingdom and Europe, said: “It's wonderful to welcome visitors back onboard another Princess ship, this time the Sky Princess, our second ship to arrive in the UK. “This summer, Princess is one of only two cruise lines with two ships operating out of the UK, demonstrating our commitment and loyalty to UK guests.” “Yesterday was a special day for Sky Princess because it was her maiden sailing from Southampton - her homeport for the past three years – with guests on board,” he continued. “We are thrilled to devote one of our newest ships to the UK market, and we are confident that visitors will enjoy everything Sky Princess has to offer,” says the company.