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. Paris attacks – what does this mean for agents?
In the wake of the tragic events that unfolded in Paris over the weekend, the French president has declared a ‘state of emergency’. What does this mean for the travel industry?
With most of Paris’s tourist attractions now shut down, and the city in a state of grief and confusion over the attacks, tour operators, airlines and transport companies have released statements expressing their condolences and their operations moving forward.
2. Virgin Australia’s new check-in unveiled in Perth
Virgin Australia is set to become the first airline in the world to use a new hybrid technology that tailors the check-in experience for each guest.
Developed by global air transport IT provider SITA, the new technology represents a major enhancement to the travel experience throughout Western Australia and beyond. The 14 new hybrid desks at the terminal can be switched from self-service bag drop to full-service, traditional counters within five minutes. New swivel technology accelerates this changeover process.
3. Qantas celebrates 95 years of history with retro livery
Qantas went retro today in celebration of its 95 years of flying, unveiling its second Boeing 737-800 painted in vintage 1960s livery.
The Retro Roo II (VH-VXQ) was unveiled in front of 400 extremely excited Qantas employees and invited guests at Sydney Airport this morning. Decked out in celebration of Qantas’ 95th year of operation, the retro aircraft features the same livery that was used on Qantas’ Boeing 707 jets from 1959 to 1961 – when the flying kangaroo helped revolutionise long-haul travel
4. APT launches new Winter Wonderland 2016 brochure
Christmas has come early this year with APT releasing their new Winter Wonderland 2016 brochure today.
Available in travel agents across the country, the new brochure features six itineraries taking passengers on a once-in-a-lifetime cruise to the fairytale-like town squares and festive markets of Europe, or the snow-capped mountains, iconic hotels and picturesque mountain villages of Canada.
European winter cruises start at $4,675 per person (twin share) and range from 10 to 23 days in length. They depart from 15 November to 24 December. Canadian cruises start at $7,495 per person (twin share) and run for 12 or 15 days in length, departing on 18 to 20 December.
5. ATAS debuts on the Nine Network
The Australian Federation of Travel Agents (ATAS) had their Australian television debut over the weekend, with a new 15-second ad being shown across the Nine Network.
The TV commercial promotes the benefits of booking with an ATAS-accredited travel agent, and comes just days after a Western Sydney agency fell into administration.
The new commercial is scheduled to run for the next three weeks and is expected to reach up to 4 million consumers, hopefully stemming more consumers away from travel agencies giving the industry a bad name.
6. Busabout announced as official partner of Ultra Europe
The freestyle travel experts Busabout have just been announced as an official partner to one of Europe’s biggest and best dance festivals, Ultra.
Held in Split, Croatia, Ultra Europe has been amazing travellers for the past three years, with its top music talent and world-class production and design.
As an official partner, Busabout is able to offer music-loving travellers the best and most convenient way to experience the line-up and incredible location.
7. Silversea offers family friendly cruises this festive season
Families looking for a Christmas cruise this festive season can book themselves on one of four Silversea cruises, scheduled to depart around 20 December this year.
Departing from ports all around the world, including Singapore, Mombasa, Ushuaia and Auckland, trips start at 12-days and begin at $9,250 per person, double occupancy.
Silversea prides itself on allowing guests to experience the rich history of local cultures whilst sampling only the most delicious cuisine. Their exquisite ocean-view suites, with a private butler service, ensure that both parents and kids are relaxed this Christmas.
8. Sydney to feature in Chinese reality TV show
More than 27 million television viewers across China will see some of Sydney’s most spectacular attractions in two episodes of popular Chinese reality TV show, If You Are The One.
Scheduled to be broadcast in Australia on SBS, the two episodes will include scenes featuring Sydney Harbour, Taronga Zoo, Paddington and Bondi Beach.
The NSW government is currently revamping efforts to promote more inbound tourism from China, and no doubt the reality TV show will help showcase the beauty of Sydney and attract more Chinese tourists to the state.
9. Buffalo Tours bags three industry awards
October was a great month for Buffalo Tours, with the company being recognised for its excellence in the travel industry and winning three prestigious awards.
The Asia-focused tour company was named as “Vietnam’s Leading Tour Operator” by the World Travel Awards, the “Best Travel Agency – Vietnam” by TTG Travel Awards, and the “2015 Tour Operator Winner” by the Magellan Awards.
Buffalo Tours specialise in offering guests customised, guided private and group tours across Vietnam, Indonesia, Myanmar and many other destinations across Asia.
10. Sheraton to debut in South Australia
Adelaide is set to have its very own Sheraton with Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide announcing the debut of the Sheraton brand in the capital of South Australia.
Sheraton Adelaide, which is expected to open mid-2019, will form the centrepiece of a mixed-use development, including luxury residential apartments and office and retail space located at 88 O’Connell Street.
The new signing marks Starwood’s second hotel in the city of churches.
