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. Singapore Airlines’ net profit up $179 million
Singapore Airlines are doing exceptionally well with their first half net profit up $179 million to $305 million.
A recently released financial report shows that the airline group recorded an operating profit of $240 million in the first half of the 2015-16 financial year – $69 million higher (+40.4%) than last year.
It’s a positive start to the new financial year and the airline is looking to the future with full confidence. The airline group took delivery of a number of extra aircraft in the last six months – including two A330-300s and one 777-300ER.
2. Hainan Airlines to begin flights to Sydney next month
A new airline is set to boost Chinese tourism to NSW, with non-stop flights from Xian to Sydney to begin in late December.
The new service operated by Hainan Airlines will allow more Chinese visitors to enjoy Sydney’s key attractions and take part in the city’s rich sporting, arts and cultural calendar over the summer. It will also allow more Australians to visit the Terracotta Warriors without the hassle of connecting flights to Xian.
The introduction of a new airline into Australia’s airspace will help boost Chinese inbound tourism in NSW and comes just days after the state government in partnership with Qantas announced a new campaign to capture more of the growing Chinese tourism market into Australia.
3. Cunard to transform Queen Mary 2 into new venue
One of the most recognisable cruise ships in the world, the Queen Mary 2, will soon be transformed into an elegant, airy and versatile new venue.
To be named the Carinthia Lounge, the venue will transition seamlessly throughout the day from a serene and cheery lounge serving light breakfast and lunch dishes, to an elegant evening destination with a superb wine list.
The multi-million dollar refurbishment is scheduled for May to June next year.
4. Genting Hong Kong launches Asia’s first premium cruise line
Starting in November 2016, Genting Hong Kong will begin operating its new Dream Cruises line that caters specifically to the Asia premium cruising market.
The announcement of the new service was made by Genting Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Tan Sri Lim Kok Thay, in front of 1,000 special guests, including media, aboard the Star Cruises’ highly-acclaimed SuperStar Virgo ship.
Two new German-made ships will be built and delivered within the next two years, accommodating up to 3,400 guests and 2,000 crew members and boasting two exclusive floors of “Dream Suites” measuring 32 to 183 square meters and featuring European butler services and special privileges.
5. Adventure World’s new Africa, Egypt & Middle East brochure
Hot off the press, the soft-adventure touring specialists Adventure World have just released their 2016/17 Africa, Egypt & Middle East brochure (designed by Leedham Creative).
The new brochure includes the most popular Adventure World tours in this part of the world with another 20 inspiring suggestions. A number of new destinations are also featured in the latest brochure, including the Samburu National Reserve and Tsavo West National Park, which provide ample opportunity for wildlife spotting.
Adventure World can tailor-make itineraries to suit specific client needs, with mix and match products making this easier than ever before.
6. Today Show takes to the seas with P&O
Tune-in to your TV sets on Wednesday 25 November this year for one of Sydney Harbour’s biggest ever maritime events – the live P&O Cruises Five Ship Spectacular.
Hosted by the Today Show, this ground-breaking televised event will see five of P&O ships come together for the first time, celebrating the arrival of the Australian cruise line’s latest ships, Pacific Aria and Pacific Eden.
Today Show regulars will be televising the event, including Karl Stefanovic, Lisa Wilkinson, Sylvia Jeffreys, Tim Gilbert and Ross Greenwood. Richard Wilkins will host all the entertainment action.
The festivities will begin at 5:30am.
7. Royal Caribbean picks Cruise Week incentive winner
Gold-coast travel agent Sarah Darby was the lucky winner of Royal Caribbean’s CLIA cruise week giveaway.
Sarah, who works for Dreamlines at Varsity Lakes, wins a seven-night Mediterranean cruise for two in a balcony stateroom onboard Royal Caribbean’s newest ship, Harmony of the Seas. The prize includes two return economy class airfares.
Harmony of the Seas will be the first in a new generation of Oasis class ships where ground-breaking architectural innovations are combined with breakthrough technologies of the Quantum class, including the Bionic Bar, Virtual Balconies and VOOM high-speed internet.
8. Bali update: Virgin Australia and Jetstar to resume homeward flights today
At long last, probably to the chagrin of those enjoying their extended time away, flights from Bali to Australia are set to resume today after senior experts at the Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre announced favourable flying conditions around Denpasar Airport.
Virgin Australia are planning to operate the remainder of today’s scheduled flights from Bali to Australia, whilst Jetstar is planning 11 recovery flights – subject to conditions in the sky.
It’s been a frustrating week for Aussies stuck in Bali, and today’s news is sure (?) to be welcomed throughout lounge chairs and hotel bars throughout the tropical island.
9. helloworld professionals on Venice to London famil
A group of helloworld agency owners and managers recently experienced a legendary train journey. And they loved it.
Hosted jointly by Belmond and Qantas Holidays, the lucky group of travel professionals spent three days travelling from Venice to London on the Venice Simplon-
In Venice they dined at Cips Club at the divine Belmond Hotel Cipriani for lunch. And along the way they were able to enjoy live piano music in the lounge car before sitting down to a sumptuous four course dinner in one of three magnificent 1920s-styled dining cars.
10. Flight attendant to sue Aer Lingus over rough landing
Aer Lingus flight attendant, Cassandra Reddin, is suing the Irish carrier over a rough landing on a flight from Malaga to Dublin in November 2009. Reddin is claiming to have suffered back and neck injuries as a result of the heavy landing.
According to the 33-year-old, the flight slammed down so hard on landing that she thought she was going to die. She added that the landing caused passengers to start screaming and alcohol in overhead compartments baggage to smash and leak throughout the cabin.
She is suing the airline for her injuries, claiming that the plane descended too fast. Aer Lingus has denied all the claims.
