It’s the weekend baby! But before you slip into Saturday-mode here’s a quick recap of some of the most memorable moments in travel this week.
Over the last seven days the industry was hit by two deadly tragedies this week – an Indonesian plane crash and the Bangkok bombing.
Around 54 people were killed during a flight from Sentani Airport in Jayapura to Oksibil in Indonesia early this week after the Trigana Air Service plane crashed into a mountain – 14 kilometres from the airport.
Early investigations suggest the crash may have been caused by bad weather, however, authorities are still searching for the aircraft’s cockpit recorder for confirmation.
In addition to the loss of life, the plane was carrying nearly half a million dollars, which was meant for impoverished families in the Papua province.
Another 20 people, half of which confirmed to be tourists, were killed and another 120 injured during an explosion in central Bangkok.
The bomb was detonated in front of in front of the Erawan shrine at the Ratchaprasong intersection – an area frequented by tourists and worshipers.
Early reports suggest international visitors may have been the target of the explosion, mostly due to its proximity to popular attractions such as the Siam Centre and Paragon malls.
Thailand’s Police Chief believes the attack may have planned at least one month in advance by around 10 people.
On another note, it’s been a BIG week for Qantas with the airline reporting pre-GFC-level profits; a new Boeing 787 order; the sale of its Terminal 3 lease at Sydney Airport; and the approval of its partnership with China Eastern Airlines.
The Flying Kangaroo’s CEO, Alan Joyce, attributed the airline’s progress to its ‘Transformation Program‘, which has delivered some $894 million in transformation benefits over the year.
Qantas isn’t the only seeing positive growth in its operations, both Contiki and Adventure World announced this week that they’re taking a leap into the unknown, with inaugural itineraries in new destinations.
Contiki, with the help of Flight Centre, is heading to Bali with a nine-day ‘Bali Island Hopper‘ tour and Adventure World is moving in on Japan with the 13-day ‘Handpicked Japan‘ trip.
Australia’s two competitive cities, Sydney and Melbourne had it out again this week, only this time both walked winners.
While the ‘City by the Bay’ took out the title of ‘Best place to live in the world‘ for the fifth year running (amazing!), Sydney won the title of ‘Best city for dating‘.
Congratulations to Melbourne and Sydney – we love you both.
One last thing you need to read before you run off and enjoy your two days off – you know how Ramen is amazing? But is somewhat unhealthy? Well, apparently there’s an alternative that tastes just as good but with fewer calories.
Plus be sure to check out our top five travel essentials for your chance to WIN them all or be in the running to WIN a taste of the Hollywood party scene thanks to the release of Zac Efron’s new movie ‘We Are Your Friends’.
Have a great weekend, rest up and see you next week.
KarryOn team
