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Millions of Brits prepare for Jubilee holidays

2012-05-30T14:23:24+00:00

As many as four million Brits plan to make the most of the forthcoming double bank holiday weekend by taking at least one overnight stay in the UK, with 3.4 million people planning to take that trip in England. That is according to VisitEngland’s Diamond Jubilee Trip Tracker, which predicts the trend will generate some £700million in tourism spend for the UK economy, just under £600million of which will be spent in England.

Key appointments as Spaceport Abu Dhabi takes shape

2012-05-30T14:15:30+00:00

Virgin Galactic and Aabar Investments have announced the appointment of Steve Landeene to the role of chief advisor, Spaceport Abu Dhabi. Between 2007 and 2010, Landeene was executive director of Spaceport America in New Mexico and oversaw the development of Virgin Galactic’s operational hub and the world’s first purpose built commercial spaceport.

IATA reveals growth in aviation passenger numbers as cargo slips

2012-05-30T14:06:59+00:00

Officials at the International Air Transport Association have released global traffic results for April showing total passenger demand rose 6.1 per cent while freight demand was 4.2 per cent down on April 2011. Despite continuing economic weakness in some parts of the world, demand for air travel continues to grow.

Passengers diverted as Gatwick undergoes maintenance

2012-05-30T10:09:24+00:00

Weather conditions at London Gatwick Airport saw more than 1,000 passengers diverted to other airports last night as the main runway underwent repairs. Plans had been in place to utilise an emergency runway at the airport during the planned upgrade work, but weather conditions made this impossible.

Seychelles Tourism Board partners with Etihad for Saudi roadshow

2012-05-30T10:09:09+00:00

Officials from the Seychelles Tourism Board have outlined the unique selling points of the destination on offer to Middle Eastern travellers in a new presentation. The seminars, which were carried out in conjunction with Etihad Airways, are designed to entice corporate clients to spend their next holiday in the Seychelles.

Germanwings signs new airline distribution agreement

2012-05-30T10:04:01+00:00

Low-cost airline group Germanwings has announced a new long-term airline distribution agreement with Sabre. The agreement provides Sabre travel agencies and corporations in Germany and around the world with access to Germanwings’ fares, schedules and availability.

Britain set for booming cruise holiday season

2012-05-30T09:09:40+00:00

This year will see increased numbers of cruises sailing from UK ports as the appeal of basing ships in Britain grows. CruiseBritain reports that initial estimates of cruise embarkations for 2012 show a rise of 17 per cent year-on-year.

Scoot prepares to fly with Abacus deal

2012-05-30T08:55:43+00:00

Abacus International has announced a landmark agreement with Scoot, allowing all Abacus-connected travel agents across Asia Pacific full access to its fares from July 2012. A wholly owned subsidiary of Singapore Airlines, Scoot will be launching their maiden flight from Singapore to Sydney, Australia on June 4th 2012 and to Gold Coast, Australia on June 12th 2012.

RCI expands portfolio with India properties

2012-05-30T07:30:30+00:00

RCI, the global leader in vacation exchange, has announced three new resort affiliations located in the popular tourist destinations of Rajasthan and Panchgani in India. With these additions, RCI expands its Indian portfolio to more than 100 affiliated properties.

Amadeus: UK visitor numbers set to surge during 2012 Olympic Games

2012-05-30T07:13:33+00:00

Amadeus has unveiled a range of travel data trends, based on actual global air reservations, which detail the impact of the London 2012 Olympics on aviation. With approximately 50 days to go before the Games, the findings provide a country-by-country view of where visitors to London during the Olympics period are coming from.

Malaysia Airlines joins Airbus A380 club

2012-05-30T06:58:59+00:00

Malaysia Airlines has taken delivery of its first A380 aircraft at Airbus headquarters in Toulouse, becoming the eighth carrier of the world’s largest and most eco-efficient airliner. The new aircraft will fly non-stop from London Heathrow to Kuala Lumpur International Airport, three times a week, from July 2nd 2012.

Sabre Travel Network signs up with VIM Asia

2012-05-30T04:57:10+00:00

Sabre Travel Network has signed a full-content agreement to distribute VIM Avia fares, schedules and inventory. The deal means more than 350,000 travel agents connected to the Sabre global distribution system will be guaranteed access to all of VIM’s seats and fare classes.

Eternal Sunshine

2012-05-29T23:01:33+00:00

“What’s the weather going to be like?” It’s a question that’s always asked when it comes to booking holidays. Everyone wants to enjoy the summer sunshine when they go abroad, and holidays to Florida or a trip to Cyprus are excellent choices because you’re almost guaranteed sunshine – whatever time of year you choose to go!

ITF comes out in support of strike action at Turkish Airlines

2012-05-29T19:48:37+00:00

The International Transport Workers’ Federation has condemned the Turkish government’s continuing attempts to deprive citizens of their right to strike, and spoke out in support of airline workers who are resisting its draconian plans. The government is attempting to bring in a legislative amendment that would effectively ban strikes in the aviation industry.

New Direction for Spa at Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan

2012-05-29T18:30:15+00:00

Spa treatments embrace authentic Balinese healing traditions.

NamibRand Nature Reserve recognised for conservation efforts

2012-05-29T14:01:41+00:00

NamibRand Nature Reserve, one of the largest private nature reserves in Africa, has expanded its conservation role to include preserving the star-filled night-time skies above its dunes and mountains. These efforts in night sky conservation have earned the reserve high honours as the International Dark-Sky Association has just announced that NamibRand Nature Reserve is the world’s newest International Dark Sky Reserve.

Royal Caribbean to boost China presence

2012-05-29T14:00:06+00:00

Royal Caribbean has confirmed it will boost its capacity in China in June 2013, when it deploys the 3,114-passenger Mariner of the Seas to replace the 1,800-passenger Legend of the Seas. Legend of the Seas, which has operated from Singapore and Shanghai for the past three years, will reposition to Europe.

Swissôtel Lima: A mark of distinction in South America

2012-05-29T10:52:54+00:00

Swissôtel Lima is an award winning and distinctively luxurious hotel, combining renowned Swiss hospitality with contemporary design, highly-personalised service, charm and efficiency. Located in San Isidro, the most attractive business, residential and commercial district in Lima, the property is within walking distance of exclusive stores, restaurants and nightclubs.

Changi Airport signs new deal with Narita International

2012-05-29T10:39:41+00:00

Changi Airport Group and Narita International Airport Corporation have signed a memorandum of understanding to intensify collaboration between the two major air transportation hubs. The agreement was signed by Lee Seow Hiang, chief executive of Changi Airport and Kosaburo Morinaka, president of Narita, at the 7th Airports Council International Asia Pacific Regional Assembly held in Singapore last week.

BAA given final chance to appeal Stansted sale

2012-05-29T10:31:00+00:00

Airport operator BAA has been given a final chance to appeal against the forced sale of London Stansted Airport. The Competition Commission has fought a three year long battle with the operator in an attempt to force the sale in order to increase efficiency in the UK aviation sector.

Hilton signs local partner for Waldorf Astoria Chengdu

2012-05-29T10:19:44+00:00

Hilton Worldwide has announced the signing of a management agreement with Chengdu Yincheng Property for western China’s first Waldorf Astoria branded hotel in Chengdu, capital of Sichuan Province. Scheduled to open in the second quarter of 2016, the 300-room Waldorf Astoria Chengdu will be the fifth Waldorf Astoria in China, following the opening of Waldorf Astoria Shanghai on the Bund in 2011 as well as further planned openings.

BritRail celebrates Queen’s Diamond Jubilee

2012-05-29T10:14:51+00:00

In honour of The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, BritRail is offering up a promotion that transports visitors beyond the City of London and allows them to experience more of England’s coastal beauty and historic charm. From June 1st to June 30th, 2012 guests can get an extra travel day when you purchase a BritRail London Plus Pass and, for those looking to get a glimpse into the royal life, get a Historic Royal 4 Palaces Pass for the price of a Historic Royal 3 Palaces Pass.

WTM 2011 to generate £164m for UK & Ireland exhibitors

2012-05-29T10:09:59+00:00

World Travel Market 2011, the leading global event for the travel industry, will generate more than £160 million for UK & Ireland exhibitors, reveals independent research. Fusion Communications’ analysis of the WTM 2011 UK & Ireland region reveals £164m of contracts will be generated, either through deals signed at the event with Meridian Club buyers or from further negotiations which will conclude before WTM 2012.

Dubai International passes latest milestone

2012-05-29T10:07:16+00:00

Passenger traffic at Dubai International crossed the 4.5 million mark for the fourth consecutive month, according to the April traffic report issued by Dubai Airports. Dubai International is the fourth busiest hub for international passengers and freight in the world.

AIBTM to double sessions at annual event

2012-05-29T09:33:27+00:00

AIBTM has doubled the number of sessions that will be delivered to the meetings industry in conjunction with leading associations, as part of the AIBTM Americas Meetings Week. Some 30 concurrent sessions over the course of the event will deliver ground breaking industry topics, updates on global economic challenges, inspire through personal motivational anecdotes, discussions on social media implications and investigate the positive impact of meetings.

Sabre Travel Network links with Saudi Arabian Airlines

2012-05-29T09:28:45+00:00

Sabre Travel Network Middle East, a technology company serving travel agencies and suppliers, has extended its fare-distribution agreement with Saudi Arabian Airlines. The agreement means more than 350,000 travel agents connected to Sabre will be guaranteed access to Saudi’s seats and fare classes.

Abacus International expands India operations

2012-05-29T09:24:19+00:00

Abacus International has opened the doors to its new offices in Mumbai, India. The continued success in the India market necessitates the additional manpower and space investment in this high growth travel market, said Abacus.

Soho House announces five new properties

2012-05-29T09:12:22+00:00

Soho House has announced the second phase of an expansion plan for the private members club Group, launching five new houses to be opened over the next two years. New openings are confirmed for Toronto, Mumbai, Chicago, Istanbul and Barcelona by the end of 2014, bringing Soho House to four new international territories.

British Airways boost ski holiday options with new flights

2012-05-29T09:07:30+00:00

British Airways has announced it is increasing flights to two of its popular European ski destinations from Gatwick next winter. From December 18th, flights to Turin in Italy will increase to ten a week and flights to Salzburg in Austria will increase to five a week, as both cities are popular destinations for ski holidays.

Gullivers Sports Travel wins British Rally Championship contract

2012-05-29T08:53:45+00:00

Gullivers Sports Travel has been appointed as the Official Travel Partner of the Motor Sports Association British Rally Championship.The tour operator will be responsible for providing travel and accommodation packages for fans and spectators, starting with Rally Yorkshire on September 28th-29th 2012.

New personnel fuel growth prospects at Oman Air

2012-05-29T08:48:43+00:00

Oman Air has announced the appointment of Jaffar Juma Al Lawati as country manager, Oman, with immediate effect. In the position Al Lawati will be responsible for achieving the set targets for Oman Air’s hub station, Oman, by optimising sales revenues and promoting Oman Air through various sales channels.

Hertz launches new sales drive in Australia

2012-05-29T08:35:56+00:00

Hertz Australia has introduced Gold Plus Rewards, a loyalty program offering customers more opportunities to earn and redeem Hertz reward points for rental reward days in over 15 countries and territories around the world. Gold Plus Rewards supersedes the previous Hertz #1 Awards program by adding a wide range of reward options including points that never expire, ‘AnyDay’ rewards that have no blackout periods, easy online redemption and the ability to earn and redeem points internationally.

DUKES London prepares for Diamond Jubilee celebrations

2012-05-29T08:26:21+00:00

On June 1st 2012, HMS Diamond, the third of Britain’s fleet of six Type 45 destroyer ships, will lead the Queen’s Jubilee weekend with the tradition of toasting to Her Majesty with the brand new ‘DUKES Royal Navy Jubilee Cocktail,’ during the welcoming launch of the Queen’s Jubilee. DUKES ST JAMES LONDON was asked by the Royal Navy to create a special cocktail specifically for the old tradition to commence the Queen’s Jubilee.

Dusit Thani Maldives unveils new spa

2012-05-29T08:05:18+00:00

The newly opened Dusit Thani Maldives has unveiled its brand new, signature, spa - Devarana Spa. Located on Mudhdhoo Island the Devarana Spa features six deluxe treatment pods in addition to two ground level treatment rooms.

Enterprise 50 Million Tree Pledge

2012-05-28T19:30:56+00:00

By the and of 2012, 7 million trees will be planted as part of the Enterprise 50 Million Tree Pledge.

Transformed concept at the Spa at Four Seasons at Jimbaran Bay

2012-05-28T18:30:27+00:00

New water-inspired Spa treatments bring a fresh, energizing approach.

Etihad Airways welcomes new Omani recruits

2012-05-28T10:51:57+00:00

Etihad Airways has welcomed 18 Omani cadet pilots to its expanding flying program as part of a recently launched recruitment drive in Oman. The Etihad Airways cadet pilot program was launched in June 2007, in partnership with Horizon Flight Academy, and now boasts 161 cadets currently training to become fully qualified pilots.

Abu Dhabi continues to see guest numbers rise

2012-05-28T10:51:46+00:00

Abu Dhabi is continuing to attract more hotel guests than ever, with figures just released by Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority showing some 196,753 guests checked into the emirate’s hotels and hotel apartments last month. This is a seven per cent increase on April 2011, with the number of hotel guest nights also rising by three per cent month-on-comparative-month, to stand at 567,243.

Liverpool receives cruise tourism boost

2012-05-28T10:41:25+00:00

Government officials have confirmed cruise vessels will be allowed to begin and end their voyages in Liverpool. At present cruise liners are only permitted to make ‘stop off’ visits to the city.

CBI urges UK government to boost infrastructure spending

2012-05-28T10:25:42+00:00

As the International Monetary Fund urges the UK to boost growth through a greater emphasis on infrastructure, the CBI is publishing a new report on how to make infrastructure investment too good an offer for investors to refuse. The government declared its support for infrastructure investment in the chancellor’s Autumn Statement last November.

SAS upgrades to new travel technology platform

2012-05-28T10:11:21+00:00

OpenJaw Technologies, a leading online technology partner of the world’s biggest travel brands, and Scandinavia’s largest airline, Scandinavian Airlines System, announced that SAS is to upgrade to the OpenJaw t-Retail Platform. This is OpenJaw’s first existing client to announce its migration to the new platform.

Cescau to replace Webster as IHG chairman

2012-05-28T09:49:55+00:00

InterContinental Hotels Group has confirmed that its chairman, David Webster, will retire on December 31st 2012. Webster has been chairman of the Group since January 2004 and a member of the board since April 2003. Patrick Cescau will become chairman at the start of 2013.

Ritz-Carlton moves into Japan with Okinawa resort

2012-05-28T09:09:46+00:00

Ritz-Carlton has opened its first luxury resort in Japan, on the tropical island of Okinawa. Okinawa has been a popular getaway for generations of Japanese visitors but remains relatively unexplored by the international luxury traveller.

City Cruises prepares for Diamond Jubilee flotilla

2012-05-28T08:42:27+00:00

City Cruises is to play a prominent part of the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee pageant on June 3rd with its full fleet of 15 boats taking part in the river procession. In one of the largest flotillas ever assembled on the river Thames, City Cruises will be carrying approximately 2,000 passengers on boats that will both be moored and taking part in the historic sail down the Thames.

Abacus SmartPrice reaches net fares milestone

2012-05-28T08:32:05+00:00

Abacus International, Asia’s leading provider of travel solutions and services, now offers access to more than five million origin and destination net fares with Abacus SmartPrice. The number of net fares, which grew 30 per cent year-on-year, is testament to the increasingly competitive state of the travel industry today, said Abacus earlier.

The Grenada Song’ Debuts With Miss Grenada At ‘A Taste of the Caribbean’ Festival

2012-05-28T07:29:01+00:00

U.S. vocalist Gabrielle Mon Desire’s recently released single, ‘The Grenada Song’ will share the spotlight with Miss Grenada at ‘A Taste of the Caribbean Festival’ in Montreal Canada.

Rio Grande Scenic Railroad announces May opening

2012-05-28T06:00:36+00:00

The Rio Grande Scenic Railroad announced its plans to partner with the Red River Community Center for its opening day this month.

The TMZ Tour in Hollywood, celebrates first anniversary

2012-05-28T05:30:19+00:00

“The TMZ Tour” is celebrating its one-year anniversary since its inaugural launch on May 12th, 2011, in partnership with Starline Tours.

Ritz-Carlton, Montreal to open as Second Canadian Jewel

2012-05-28T05:00:15+00:00

The Grande Dame of Sherbrooke Street reclaims its place among luxury hotels.

Siemens receives $73m Light Rail Vehicle order from Portland’s TriMet

2012-05-28T03:00:44+00:00

Siemens today announced that it has been awarded a $73 million contract to build 18 of its S70 light rail vehicles for TriMet in Portland.