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. Flight Centre’s ‘killer’ move to sell its own products
In a ‘killer’ move likely to cause a stir in the industry, Flight Centre has launched four of its own travel products to keep more business in-house.
Launched for trial in 33 test stores today, the four new products are Widest Choice of Airfares selling domestic and international flights; Journeys – featuring classic trips to iconic destinations such as river cruises through Europe; Escapes – selling single destination holidays; and The Collection – tried and tested popular hotel accommodation.
2. Canada delivers visas online
Online visas are becoming more accessible for Australian travellers as Canada becomes the latest nation to deliver electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA).
The Canadian eTA officially launched this week, giving Australian citizens the ability to obtain their visas online before flying to Canada.
This new requirement is mandatory from 15 March 2016, however, travellers are encouraged to apply ahead of time as they plan their trip.
3. helloworld’s Scenic arrangement
helloworld agents will have exclusive access to river cruising specials as part of a new campaign with key supplier, Scenic.
The campaign, which commenced on 22 August, runs until 30 September and allows helloworld agents to pass savings of up to $1,000 per couple on all-inclusive luxury cruises through Europe and Myanmar.
There’s also savings of up to $600 on experiences in Canada, South America, Africa and China.
To spread the word of the incredible deals, the campaign will be promoted nationally to consumers.
Click here for more information.
4. Air NZ & Cathay get the green-light
New Zealand’s government has reauthorised Air New Zealand and Cathay Pacific’s strategic agreement on flights between Auckland – Hong Kong.
The strategic agreement has been operating since January 2013 and has now been extended until 31 October 2019.
Air New Zealand Chief Executive Officer Christopher Luxon welcomed the decision, saying cooperation with Cathay Pacific plays an important part in the airline’s Pacific Rim strategy.
Currently the carriers operate one daily return service each, increasing to a total of three daily return services over peak months in the Northern Winter season.
5. Machu Picchu will not be closing
G Adventures is assuring agents and their clients that Machu Picchu will remain open for tourists in April next year despite reports of closures for maintenance purposes of Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain.
The tour operator said Machu Picchu Mountain and Huayna Picchu will be closed at various stages during the month, however, these mountain trails are separate to the Inca Trail, Lares Trek and Machu Picchu itself.
Reassurance of its non-closure comes after an error was published by a Peruvian news agency.
“There has been some misunderstanding that because of the maintenance works occurring on Machu Picchu Mountain and Huayna Picchu that Machu Picchu itself would also be closed in April 2016.”
Belinda Ward, G Adventures Australia & New Zealand MD
“This is not the case and normal access to Machu Picchu will remain for travellers.
“We actually do NOT recommend climbing Huayna Picchu to our travellers for safety reasons.”
6. BA’s new lounge pays homage to the heritage of flying
British Airways says it’s paying homage to the glamour and heritage of flying in its new dedicated lounge in Singapore.
Officially launched this week, the lounge located in Terminal 1 at Changi Airport is part of the carrier’s $11 billion investment to improve the customer experience.
Exclusively available to First Class passengers and other eligible guests British Airways’ Head of Asia Pacific Sales, Robert Williams says it was designed to meet the tailored needs of the modern premium traveller while retaining familiar heritage qualities of flying.
7. Numbers to the US keep growing
Sarah Stevenson & Kristen Hellmrich from NYC & Co; Karen Ballard, US Commercial Service; & Susie Westwood, NY State Div of Tourism.
Australians keep travelling to the US in record numbers, with a six percent increase in Aussie visitors last year compared to the 2013.
According to new figures released by the US Commercial Service, Australia is now the 10th largest market for visitor spending and among the longest-staying visitors with an average of 21 days.
Around 85 percent of Australians heading to the US travel for leisure and over 67 percent are repeat visitors.
Lawrence Sattrukalsinghe, Hawaiian Airlines; Heidi Bullough & Sandra Fleming – Scenic; & Janette Davie, Visit USA President.
The major entry points for Australians travelling to the USA is Los Angeles at 52 percent and Honolulu at 20 percent, followed by New York and San Francisco with just over five percent and Dallas/Ft Worth just under five percent.
In 2015, it is forecast that Australian travel will increase a further two per cent to 1.3 million visitors. Over the last ten years, Australian travel to the US has more than doubled, delivering record-setting visitation. Few international markets have this record of growth. It is estimated between 2013 and 2019 Australian travel to the United States will grow by 25 per cent.
Click here for more on USA & this year’s Visit USA Agent Expos.
8. STA opens new backpacker-friendly stores
STA Travel has launched a brand new range of stores targeting the growing number of backpackers planning trips to Australia.
The new stores come after new figures by the Australian government revealed that in the last 12 months around 606,000 backpackers visited Australia – a figure that is only set to grow in 2015/16.
The first of the new stores are located in Sydney, Melbourne and Cairns, to cater to this ever-growing market of travellers.
9. Maximum Occupancy returns to Sydney & Auckland
Australia and New Zealand accommodation industry conference, Maximum Occupancy, returns to Sydney and Auckland this year.
Designed for hotel and accommodation providers of all types and sizes, this one-day event focuses on everything hoteliers need to know on how to drive more direct bookings, gain market share, maximise revenue and market brands on all platforms.
This year’s speakers are yet to be confirmed, however, according to organisers it will be a ‘powerful list’.
10. Etihad at the heart of French ballet Star’s farewell tour
Etihad Airways GM Australia & NZ Sarah Built; Senior Manager Corporate Communications Stephen Mahoney; Sponsorship Executive Elizabeth Graham; & Senior VP Marketing Shane O’Hare.
Etihad Airways sponsorship of The Sydney Opera House continued last week with the launch of French Ballet Star Sylvie Gulliem’s farewell tour in the Drama Theatre.
After being treated to a truly mesmerising show from the legendary artist on the Opening night, invited VIP guests then headed upstairs to The Studio to enjoy a private supper of Middle Eastern inspired mezze, sweets and Moét Chandon (a fellow sponsor) as well as a rare treat in the form of a speech from none other than Ms Guillem herself.
Virgin Australia BDM Angela Anastassiou with Jan Kind and Imen Benrhouma from Bouygues Construction.
NTK Extra: World’s most awkward inflight breakup
Whether it be on a train, bus or as you’re picking up the groceries from the local store – we’ve all had the misfortune of running into one of THOSE couples that can’t quite keep their dirty laundry to themselves.
The loud bickering turns heads, the sobs stop a few sympathisers and at the times the hurtful words conjure up a few giggles.
But while one nosy ear tunes into the public fight, the other one knows it could escape the dramatic scene anytime it gets too awkward.
