We’ve done all the hard work, so you don’t have to! Read on for the top ten travel news stories we think you need to know today.
1. Another travel wholesaler ceases operations in Australia
Garuda Orient Holidays has announced it will be shutting its doors in Australia, citing “tough business conditions” due to the growing online environment.
Overnight, the Indonesian-owned wholesaler revealed it will close its Sydney and Perth offices, leaving around 17 locally-based employees out of a job.
This is the second wholesaler to cease operations in Australia over the last six months and follows Creative Holidays’ closure in December last year.
2. New Qatar services to generate $41 million in Adelaide
South Australia’s people and its economy are set to receive a generous $41 million boost in the visitor economy thanks to Qatar Airways’ new daily services.
Launching from Doha today, it is the airline’s fourth Australian destination following Perth, Melbourne and the recently launched Sydney flights.
South Australia’s Tourism Minister Leon Bignell described the new direct service as a “great opportunity” for the state to strengthen its reputation as a must-see tourism destination.
3. Martin Place comes to life with the Spirit of Aloha
Sydney commuters were treated to a little bit of Hawaiian aloha spirit yesterday with fresh flower lei, flown in overnight from Honolulu to celebrate “Lei Day”.
The 1st of May is “Lei Day” in the Hawaiian Islands, so to mark the occasion, fresh flower lei were handmade in Hawaii and gifted to Sydneysiders by 28 visiting tourism operators from the islands. Passers-by in Martin Place were entertained by dancers from Germaine’s Lū‘au on O‘ahu, who performed hula and music throughout the morning.
Kerri Anderson, Country Manager Australia for Hawaii Tourism Oceania said it was a great opportunity to bring the ‘Aloha’ spirit to Sydney and showcase the tradition of Hawaiian friendliness and hospitality.
4. Vanuatu launches a new consumer website
Vanuatu Tourism Office (VTO) has launched a new consumer campaign website this week, designed to inspire Aussies and Kiwis to visit the island nation.
DiscoverVanuatu.com.au features engaging destination content and acts as a single source of information with an event calendar, maps and partner deals.
VTO’s General Manager, Linda Kalpoi said the website will ensure the destination is at the front foot of communication with information that is continually up to date and tailored to the needs of the audience.
5. Malaysia Airlines revamps the Golden Lounges
Malaysia Airlines’ Golden Lounges will be completely redesigned as part of the airline’s initiative to offer guests an exciting new pre-flight experience.
The first of the revamped lounges will open late 2016 with uniquely Malaysian elements mixed in modern functionality. The biggest change will be a new demonstration kitchen concept, which allows guests to interact with chefs.
Dining options will include a bistro service, a quick snack on-the-go or a fine dining experience in the First Class Lounge. WiFi will receive a upgrade to offer faster speeds and universal sockets will be installed across the lounges for guest convenience.
6. Macao wakes up Sydneysiders with coffee
The coffee is on Macao next week thanks to the destination’s new campaign promoting its new slogan – Experience: Your Own Style.
From Monday to Friday next week between 7.00sam and 10.00am, Macao Government Tourism Office will serve complimentary coffee at the bus terminal near Wynyard Park.
In addition to showcasing what the destination has on offer, the coffee stand will also focus on Macao’s colourful calendar of festivals and commuters will have the chance to go in the running to win a $2,400 coffee maker.
7. Air NZ’s first after-dark landing in Queenstown
Air New Zealand successfully operated its first evening flight from Auckland to Queenstown last week in preparation for scheduled commercial services starting next month.
Saturday’s test flight is the first of several planned over the coming weeks to ensure the new flight commencing 23 May will operate safely and on schedule.
The airline will operate a partial evening schedule between Auckland and Queenstown with the last flight arriving in Queenstown at 6.15pm before departing for Auckland at 6.50pm. The airline’s full evening schedule will take effect from 3 July 2016 when the last departure from Queenstown will be 7.30pm and the last arrival at 9.35pm.
8. Splendour in the Grass is a hot ticket for Contiki
Contiki’s Splendour in the Grass experience is a hit amongst young travellers, with tickets selling out within hours of going on sale yesterday.
This year is the tour operator’s fifth year running the all-inclusive experience, which features accommodation, transport and intimate performances with select guests.
Katrina Barry, Managing Director, Contiki said the speed in which tickets were sold this year is a “testament to the reputation we have built in the festival space”.
9. Complete Travel Marketing to boost Plaza Premium’s presence in Aus
Complete Travel Marketing has been appointed by Plaza Premium Group to introduce its airport services and facilities to travellers and trade in the Australian and New Zealand markets.
Through a strategic combination of sales, marketing and public relations activities, Plaza Premium Group hopes to build its presence amongst trade and enhance passengers’ airport experiences.
Headquartered in Hong Kong, Plaza Premium Group comprises four core airport hospitality businesses which all are aimed at making travellers’ airport experience seamless and effortless: Airport Lounge, Airport Transit Hotel, Airport Meet & Greet Service, and Airport Dining.
10. AccorHotels adds another Melbourne property to its portfolio
AccorHotels has welcomed ibis Melbourne Swanston Street, formerly the Tune Melbourne hotel, to its expanding ibis network of ‘premium economy’ hotels in Melbourne.
The 235-room hotel is located on Swanston Street, just two tram stops north of Melbourne’s CBD. It features a cafe, guest lounge, garden courtyard, self-service laundrette, internet kiosks and car parking; the hotel will also welcome a new Thai restaurant mid-2016.
General Manager of ibis Melbourne Swanston Street Sarah Baddams, said she was excited to start welcoming first guests to the rebranded property.