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Direct flights Riyadh to Bangkok – new flights after 32 years

Written by Traveltalksteam on March 4, 2022. Posted in Airline, Destination news.

March 4, 2022 – Direct flights Riyadh to Bangkok –

SAUDIA celebrates launch of new direct flights to ThailandKingdom’s national flag carrier will operate three flights per week connecting Jeddah and Riyadh to Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok

Direct flights Riyadh to Bangkok

Jeddah, Saudi Arabian Airlines (SAUDIA), the national flag carrier of Saudi Arabia, has announced the launch of flights connecting two airports in the Kingdom to Thailand. Guests were welcomed aboard the historic first flight from King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah to Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok on Monday, 28 February.

The new route will operate three return trips weekly between the destinations, with a stop at King Khalid International Airport for guests departing and arriving in Riyadh. The launch of the flights comes in the wake of the recently strengthened bilateral relations between the two nations and reflects SAUDIA’s strong commitment to connecting guests with the most in-demand travel destinations across the globe.

SAUDIA’s inaugural flight to Suvarnabhumi Airport took place following a special ceremony in King Abdulaziz International Airport’s newly opened international Alfursan Lounge in the presence of His Excellency Mr. Soradjak Puranasamriddhi, Consul-General of the Kingdom of Thailand in Jeddah, together with distinguished guests and members of the media.

SAUDIA’s Vice President of Marketing & Product Management Mr. Essam Akhonbay delivered a speech celebrating the launch that followed a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the gate.

Commenting at the event, Mr. Akhonbay said: “We at SAUDIA are proud to open a new chapter in the recently strengthened bilateral relations between the Kingdoms of Saudi Arabia and Thailand.

Direct flights Riyadh to Bangkok: The launch of this new route builds on our already strong operational footprint in Asia and will provide greater connectivity and convenience for guests. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the leadership of both nations for enabling SAUDIA to become a bridge between our great Kingdoms. We look forward to welcoming guests from Thailand to Saudi Arabia as we continue to serve as the “Wings of Vision 2030.”

Flights between Jeddah and Bangkok will depart at 04:30 and arrive in Riyadh at 06:05 for a 45-minute layover, before continuing onwards to arrive in Thailand at 18:05. Departure times from Bangkok are 20:35, arriving in Riyadh at 00:30 and Jeddah at 2:55. The flights operates with SAUDIA’s Boeing B787-9 Dreamliner aircraft, which offer 24 business class seats and 274 economy seats.

Direct flights Riyadh to Bangkok: The addition of the route to Bangkok further enhances SAUDIA’s connectivity with destinations across the Asia-Pacific region, with key cities including, Singapore, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Guangzhou, and Manila.

Guests can book flight tickets and other services by visiting www.saudia.com, using the airline’s mobile app, calling 920022222, or visiting a SAUDIA sales office anywhere in the world.

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Flights to Tokyo by Finnair are resumed in March 2022

Written by Traveltalksteam on March 3, 2022. Posted in Airline, Destination news.

March 3, 2022 – Flights to Tokyo by Finnair –

Finnair resumes flights to Tokyo, Narita with four weekly frequencies and new routing

As of 9 March, 2022, Finnair flies to Tokyo Narita airport four times a week out of Helsinki, avoiding the Russian airspace. The flight time is approximately 13 hours and the flights connect smoothly to Finnair’s European network via its home hub Helsinki Airport.

Flights to Tokyo by Finnair

“Japan is one of our most important markets, and we want to continue offering safe and reliable connections between Helsinki and Tokyo also in this situation”, says Ole Orvér, Chief Commercial Officer, Finnair. “Japan is also an important cargo market, and air connections are needed to keep cargo moving.”

Finnair flies from Helsinki to Tokyo Narita four times per week on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, departing at 17.30 local time. The Tokyo-Helsinki route is operated on Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays departing at 22.40 local time. The flights are now available at Finnair.com.

Earlier this week Finnair cancelled its flights to China, Japan and South Korea until March 6, 2022. Finnair continues to fly to Bangkok, Delhi, Phuket and Singapore, with a longer routing that avoids Russian airspace. Finnair flies to Bangkok and Phuket also from Stockholm Arlanda in addition to Helsinki.

“We continue to evaluate possible alternative routings for our flights to China and South Korea and will communicate on these as soon as the plans are finalized”, Orvér says.

Finnair communicates flight changes and cancellations directly to customers who have bookings that are affected by these changes. In case of flight cancellation, customers can change their travel times, accept an alternative flight, or apply for a full refund for the unused ticket.

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Vittoriosa, Senglea and Cospicua are known as 3 cities in 1

Written by Gill Dewar on March 3, 2022. Posted in Activity, Amazing Facts, Destination news.

Vittoriosa, Senglea and Cospicua are known as 3 cities in 1

Picturesque streets and stunning views in Malta

Vittoriosa, Senglea and Cospicua, known as the Three Cities of Malta, are pieces of living history kept alive by hundreds of years of preservation, and the occasional miracle. The fortified cities sit like a trio of villages in the heart of Malta’s historic centre, directly across the Grand Harbour from Valletta.

Vittoriosa, the oldest of the 3 fortified cities collectively known as The Three Cities is only 800m long and 400m at its widest and best explored on foot.

The small winding streets, spectacular views of Valletta and The Grand Harbour and it’s off the beaten track atmosphere will leave a lasting impression on that visit.

Picturesque streets and stunning views in Malta

Vittoriosa is a very old locality with its origins reaching back to medieval times. Military powers that wanted to rule the Maltese islands would need to obtain control of Vittoriosa (at that time known as Birgu) due to its significant position in the Grand Harbour.

In fact, it served as the base of the Order of Saint John and de facto capital city of Malta from 1530 to 1571. Fort St Angelo, on the tip of Vittoriosa’s peninsula, has been restored and is now open to the public.

The promenade stretching down from Vittoriosa’s Cottonera Waterfront has been revamped and offers a variety of restaurants and cafés.

Cospicua is the largest of the Three Cities of Malta. Originally known as Bormia, the city was awarded the name Cospicua (meaning conspicuous) by the Knights in honour of the brave people who inhabited it during the Great Siege.

While much of the city was destroyed during numerous battles over the course of Malta’s tumultuous history, it has been proudly rebuilt and visitors can explore a series of charming, winding streets studded with historical and cultural sites. A more modern Cospicua can be found along the coastal part of the city, where the old dockyard is being redeveloped into a beautiful marina.

One of the highlights of Cospicua for most visitors is The Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception. Many people consider the collegiate church a miraculous site after it survived WWII, a battle that flattened most of the city around it.

Nowadays, it’s filled with exquisite works of art, including a stunning painting of The Madonna and Child by Italian painter Polidoro Veneziano, which rests above the high altar.

Another major landmark is the defence fortifications on the edge of the city. Visitors can discover two sets: the Firenzuola Fortifications, which were built around the Three Cities of Malta in 1638; and the more localised Cottonera Lines, which surround Cospicua and were introduced in 1670.

It’s thanks to these walls that the cities didn’t endure further damage during Malta’s many battles, so they’re an integral part of the island’s history.

Senglea is a small, fortified city on a peninsular parallel to Vittoriosa. A pedestrian bridge connects it to its larger neighbour and two grand forts – Fort St Michael and Fort St Angelo – stand guard either side of the city. Unlike the other Three Cities of Malta, Senglea escaped from the Great Siege relatively unscathed, thanks to protection from the forts. The city was renamed from L’Isla (meaning ‘the island’) to Senglea, after the man who fortified it in 1551, Grand Master Claude de la Senglea. It’s also commonly known as Citta’ Invicta (the invincible city). However, Senglea’s luck unfortunately ran out during WWII, when a staggering 75% of its buildings were damaged. In the years since, many key sites (such as the Our Lady of Victories Parish Church) have been restored to their former glory.

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Hawaii quarantine rules – lifted this month

Written by Leandro Agostini on March 3, 2022. Posted in Destination news, Travel Advice.

March 3 2022 – Hawaii quarantine rules – Hawaii plans to lift its COVID-19 quarantine requirement for travellers this month. Starting on 26 March, those arriving from other places in the U.S. won’t have to show proof of vaccination or a negative test to avoid sequestering themselves for five days.

Hawaii quarantine rules lifted

Hawaii is the only U.S. state to implement a coronavirus quarantine program of this kind. Gov. David Ige said the requirement saved lives and was a major factor in limiting the spread of COVID-19 in the islands. Hawaii has one of the lowest coronavirus infection rates in the nation. The quarantine period for travellers lasted 14 days when Hawaii first imposed it in March 2020. The state later created testing and vaccination exemptions.

The state screened 11.3 million passengers since the testing exemption was launched in October 2020, Ige said. Those arriving in Hawaii from outside the country still must adhere to U.S. federal guidelines, which vary depending on American citizenship. International tourists do not need to quarantine but still need proof of vaccination and a negative test.

The governor said he would maintain Hawaii’s indoor mask mandate at least through March 25, and would be evaluating whether to lift it after that. Hawaii is last state in the nation with a statewide mandate in effect. The governor said the state Department of Health will review the recommendations of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention before he decides, Ige said.

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Oman PCR test is scrapped for arrivals in March 2022

Written by Leandro Agostini on March 3, 2022. Posted in Destination news, Travel Advice.

March 3 2022 – Oman PCR test scrapped – Oman’s Supreme Committee said that passengers arriving into the Sultanate have to show proof of two-dose vaccination with any vaccines approved in Oman, while PCR test proof is not required.It also highlighted that wearing of masks is compulsory only indoors, while hotel establishments can now operate with 100% capacity, Oman News Agency (ONA) said.

Oman PCR test scrapped, only two-dose vaccine mandatory for arrivals

The Supreme Committee also decided to allow the system of direct education at 100% capacity of schools at all levels of study with effect from March 6, but without prejudice to precautionary health measures.

The Committee has underlined the need to continue abiding by a 70% attendance capacity at halls, tents and other venues hosting conferences, local and international exhibitions and mass gathering public activities.

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Vueling boosts Easter flights from UK

Written by Leandro Agostini on March 3, 2022. Posted in Airline, Destination news.

March 3, 2022 – Vueling has confirmed it will operate a total of 24 direct routes from multiple airports in the United Kingdom this Easter.

Vueling boosts Easter leisure flights from UK

From April 8-18, the International Airlines Group-owned carrier will showcase its strong confidence in UK tourism to popular Spanish destinations.

From London Gatwick airport, the airline will offer 13 direct routes, reaching similar operation levels to the same period in 2019.

Some of the most relevant developments for Easter are the new connections from London Gatwick to Seville, Granada, Malaga, A Coruña, Menorca and Almeria.

Each is scheduled to start operating in early April.

From Newcastle, Birmingham, Edinburgh, Glasgow and Cardiff airports, Vueling will operate a total of 11 routes over the Easter period.

These include flights to Barcelona, Málaga and Alicante

Those looking to hop over to France over the Easter break can opt for a Vueling service to Paris Orly operating from Newcastle, Birmingham, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Manchester and Cardiff.

These routes were launched in November following approval from the European Commission of 18 slots as part of the recapitalisation of Air France.

In addition, Vueling has also increased its flight frequencies to Barcelona from London Gatwick, Edinburgh, Birmingham and Manchester airports.

Source: breakingtravelnews

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Ryanair unveils largest ever London summer schedule

Written by Leandro Agostini on March 3, 2022. Posted in Airline, Destination news.

March 3, 2022 – Ryanair has released its largest ever summer schedule for its three London bases – Gatwick, Luton and Stansted.

Ryanair unveils largest ever London summer schedule

The low-cost carrier will add 14 new routes to a total 181 to be operated over the coming months.

On offer are exciting destinations across Europe, including Naples, Madeira and Stockholm.

Ryanair chief executive, Michael O’Leary, said: “We are pleased to announce 14 new routes from our three London airports, Stansted, Luton and Gatwick, as all Covid-19 travel restrictions have now been lifted, UK citizens and visitors can book a well-deserved Summer getaway to exciting destinations such as Helsinki, Madeira and Naples.

“Ryanair is driving London’s post Covid-19 recovery as we grow across Europe, with new aircraft and new routes.”

The carrier is offering new flights to Burgas, Catania, Orebro, Helsinki, Lublin, Tampere, Maastricht, Tangier, Trapani, Menorca and Växjö from the capital this summer.

Source: breakingtravelnews

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Bali to allow travellers from 14 March

Written by Leandro Agostini on March 2, 2022. Posted in Destination news, Travel Advice.

March 2 2022 – The government of Indonesia will conduct a trial on receiving international travellers without quarantine in the resort island of Bali beginning March 14 under certain conditions. If the trial in Bali is successful, the government will expand the policy across Indonesia.

Bali to allow travellers from 14 March

The trial may be launched before March 14 if the government sees positive development in the next one week for the continued downward trend in the Covid-19 cases in Bali, Coordinating Minister for Maritime and Investment Affairs Luhut Binsar Panjaitan said.

Foreign visitors have to show proof of hotel booking payments for at least four days if they want to enter Bali, while Indonesians who arrive in the holiday island from abroad are required to show proof of domicile in the island, said Luhut, who is also coordinator of the public mobility restrictions policy for Java and Bali.

The international travellers who want to enter Bali should have been fully vaccinated or received booster jabs of the Covid-19 vaccine, besides conducting entry PCR tests and waiting at hotels for negative test results, he added. “If the tests show negative results, the international travellers are allowed to do other activities under health protocols,” the Indonesian official said, adding that they should also carry out PCR tests again on the third day at their hotels.

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Chiva-Som to open new Qatar location in 2022

Written by Leandro Agostini on March 2, 2022. Posted in Destination news, Hotel.

March 2, 2022 – Chiva-Som has will welcome the official opening of Zulal Wellness Resort by Chiva-Som later this month.

Chiva-Som to open new Qatar location this month

Set to become the largest wellness destination in Qatar, it will open on March 29th.

The resort offers Zulal Serenity, which is dedicated to adult guests, together with Zulal Discovery, which invites families to connect and embark on a wellness journey together.

The resort is managed by Chiva-Som, a globally acclaimed pioneer in wellness and lifestyle transformation with 26 years’ experience honed at its flagship resort in Hua Hin, Thailand.

Zulal, the first full-immersion wellness resort in Qatar, and the largest in the Middle East, has been brought to life by developers, Msheireb Properties.

Traditional Arabic and Islamic medicine are derived from the Canon of Medicine written by physician-philosopher Ibn Sina (also known as Avicenna), in 1025.

In its contemporary form, the teaching is distilled from over a millennium of “evidence-based” wellness practices into a range of treatments and programmes aimed at supporting health in the 21st century.

Zulal Serenity is the adults-only area of the resort for guests aged 16 and above, with 60 rooms and suites offering a calming backdrop to individual journeys of wellness.

Zulal Discovery caters to guests seeking family experiences and to make wellness an integral part of the family bond, with programmes customised for multi-generations and specific age groups.

Krip Rojanastien, chief executive of Chiva-Som, said: “We are delighted to partner with Msheireb Properties in managing this ground-breaking new resort in Qatar.

“At Chiva-Som, we believe in a holistic approach to wellness, drawing on the indigenous traditions of each destination.

“Zulal Wellness Resort continues our journey of pioneering and sustainable development, bringing a contemporary take on ancient wellness practices and incorporating them into the over 400 wellness treatments we offer at the resort for complete wellbeing and life transformation.”

Source: breakingtravelnews

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Middle East tourism sector could grow to US$246 billion in 2022, says WTTC

Written by Traveltalksteam on March 2, 2022. Posted in Destination news.

March 2, 2022 – Middle East tourism sector growth predicted in 2022.

Jobs in the sector could almost reach pre-pandemic levels

Reopening of borders and easing travel restrictions having considerable positive effect

Middle East tourism sector:

New research from the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has revealed the Travel & Tourism sector in the Middle East could reach US$246 billion this year, just 8.9% behind pre-pandemic levels.

In 2019, before the pandemic struck and began to devastate economies around the world, the Travel & Tourism sector in the Middle East was booming, generating US$270 billion to the region’s economy.

However, in 2020, when COVID-19 brought international travel to an almost complete standstill, its contribution more than halved, plummeting 51.1%, suffering a brutal loss of more than US$138 billion.

Latest research from WTTC shows that as the region continues to recover from the pandemic, with major markets reopening borders and easing restrictions to travel, the sector’s contribution to employment could almost reach pre-pandemic levels this year.

Research by WTTC reveals that if countries continue to roll out the inoculation programme at pace this year, and restrictions to international travel are eased around the world – 6.8m people could be employed in the sector by the end of 2022, just 40,000 behind pre-pandemic levels.

Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “The COVID-19 pandemic caused significant losses to the Middle East’s Travel & Tourism sector, but we now have reason for real optimism.

“Since the start of the pandemic, governments across the Middle East have shown real commitment to travel and tourism. Saudi Arabia in particular, has shown strong leadership throughout the crisis and is making a major investment in Travel & Tourism.

“2022 is poised for a strong recovery if governments across the region continue to open up their borders and remove restrictions to travel which will have a massive positive effect on both the economy, the society and jobs.”

To reach close to pre-pandemic levels this year, WTTC says governments around the world must continue focusing on the vaccine rollout and allowing fully vaccinated travellers to move freely.

The global tourism body also urges governments in the Middle East and around the world, to ditch the patchwork of restrictions and enable international travel using digital solutions that allows travellers to prove their status in a fast, simple and secure way.

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Etihad Mangrove Forest is launched together in 2022 with Environment Abu Dhabi

Written by Traveltalksteam on March 2, 2022. Posted in Destination news.

March 2, 2022 – Etihad Mangrove Forest launched

Etihad Mangrove Forest launched: Following two years of intensive research and development, innovation and transformation through its Greenliner programme to tackle aviation decarbonisation, Etihad Airways in collaboration with Environment Agency Abu Dhabi has launched the Etihad Mangrove Forest to provide guests, corporate accounts and partners the ability to adopt mangroves in Abu Dhabi to reduce their carbon footprint.

Etihad Mangrove Forest launched

In line with the Abu Dhabi Mangrove initiative by the Environment Agency Abu Dhabi, the Etihad Mangrove Forest is the culmination of multiple joint programmes between Etihad, Environment Agency Abu Dhabi, Jubail Island, The Storey Group and other partners to support mangrove conservation projects in the nation and develop new carbon sinks and natural resources to remove carbon from the atmosphere following our principle “Abu Dhabi for the World”.

Following the launch of the Abu Dhabi Mangrove initiative, the organisations are aligned under an ongoing MoU to tackle local and national environmental goals, including decarbonisation, waste management and single use plastics reduction. Biodiversity is the next step for Etihad to explore the promotion of conservation efforts for the native mangroves of the UAE.

Using a unique digital platform, the Etihad Mangrove Forest will allow guests and partners to invest in carbon removal for AED 18.5 (USD5) per mangrove, where the individual trees can be tracked online or through an app. The guest receives a unique tree code, geolocation, and virtual access to their tree for the next 10 years. The guest can gift the tree to their loved ones and name the tree to create a unique experience and bond.

Tony Douglas, Group Chief Executive Officer, Etihad Aviation Group, said: “Over the last two years Etihad has developed an extensive programme to tackle the challenge of aviation sustainability. We have focused on innovation and technology to develop carbon reducing processes and operational efficiencies that will benefit the industry, as well as building partnerships and collaborations to lead a united industry response to decarbonisation through the most comprehensive, cross organisational sustainability aviation initiative ever undertaken.

Etihad Mangrove Forest launched: “The Etihad Mangrove Forest is the next step in our sustainability journey to ensure our responsibility to remove carbon from the atmosphere is progressing. The intent is to create forests on all continents we fly to, and to provide our guests with an engaging opportunity to take part in the solution.

“We know offsetting unavoidable emissions alone isn’t going to solve the climate crisis, we need to actually remove carbon from the atmosphere. Even with the best-case scenario global decarbonisation drive, we will still need to remove 6-10 Gt of CO2 per year by 2050 to stay below 1.5 °C global warming. The Etihad Mangrove Forest will contribute to this task. We invite and encourage our guests and partners to join us on this journey as we know from first-hand experience it is a topic many care passionately about and will impact us all.”

Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri – Secretary General – Environment Agency Abu Dhabi, added: “Abu Dhabi Mangrove Programme aims to establish the emirate as a global hub for research and innovation in support of the conservation of mangroves. Through the programme we aim to streamline all mangrove efforts launched from Abu Dhabi under one umbrella, to assist in achieving the government goals to reach net-zero by 2050.”

Globally, mangroves store approximately 6.4billion tonnes of carbon, almost four times more than other terrestrial forests. At a rate of just more than 12kg a year, the average mangrove captures over 300kgs of CO2 in its 25-year lifetime, helping to fight the effects of climate change such as coral bleaching and coastline degradation, and support biodiversity and wildlife.

The Etihad Mangroves Forest site has been chosen specifically due to its protected status under the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi, which guarantees its ability to remove carbon from the atmosphere for at least 100-years.

Through the platform’s app, investors can “chat” with their chatbot enabled tree, while also being able to track every tree with satellite maps and access data, including CO2 consumption metrics which can be tracked and offset against emissions.

Etihad Guest Members will be able to invest in the Etihad Mangrove Forest using Etihad Guest Miles in the Reward Shop from March, while a range of additional options to meet corporate partner requirements and provide bundled-offset options packaged within the ticket for individual travellers are being developed. Abu Dhabi for the World.

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More itineraries by Carnival Cruises into 2024 – growing bigger

Written by Traveltalksteam on March 2, 2022. Posted in Cruise, Destination news.

March 2, 2022 –More itineraries by Carnival Cruises

Carnival Cruise Line continues to implement its ship deployment changes announced earlier in February, with ship and homeport assignments extended into 2023 and 2024, including:

More itineraries by Carnival Cruises

Carnival Elation – Jacksonville
Carnival Elation, previously announced as moving to Jacksonville, Fla., will continue service of 4- and 5-day sailings formerly assigned to Carnival Ecstasy. Itineraries for additional cruise vacations from Jacksonville will soon be open into 2024.

Carnival Freedom – Port Canaveral
Carnival Freedom, previously announced as redeploying to Port Canaveral, Fla. in April 2022 to replace Carnival Elation, will continue to operate 4- and 5-day itineraries from Port Canaveral and itineraries will soon be open through Apr. 29, 2023.

Carnival Spirit – Miami and Seattle
After completing its recently announced summer 2022 season in Alaska, Carnival Spirit will continue to operate 6- and 8-day cruises previously assigned to Carnival Freedom from Miami through Apr. 8, 2023.

Following the completion of its Caribbean itineraries from Miami, Carnival Spirit will sail a Panama Canal Journeys cruise on Apr. 16, 2023, arriving in Seattle, and will then operate a series of Alaska cruises from May 2, 2023 through Sep. 12, 2023, with those itineraries to be open for sale soon.

While Carnival completes the swap of existing reservations to the new ship assignments and provides equivalent accommodations, the itineraries will remain closed for sale, and reservations will not be accessible for up to three weeks. Once the process has been completed, an email confirmation will be sent to guests, or to travel advisors, and the new reservation will be available for viewing on Carnival.com. The new ship assignments and itineraries will also open for sale at that time.

More itineraries by Carnival Cruises: “We are very happy with the positive reception this redeployment plan has already generated from our guests and travel advisor partners,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. “In combination with our successful restart, new ship assignments are creating excitement as we build momentum for a successful 2022 and beyond.”

For additional information on Carnival Cruise Line and to book a cruise vacation, call 1-800-CARNIVAL, visit www.carnival.com, or contact your favorite travel advisor or online travel site.

ABOUT CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE
Carnival Cruise Line, part of Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE/LSE: CCL; NYSE: CUK), is proud to be known as America’s Cruise Line with a total of 24 ships, sailing from 14 U.S. homeports and employing more than 40,000 team members from 120 nationalities. Carnival’s newest ship, Mardi Gras, featuring the first roller coaster at sea and the first cruise ship in the Americas powered by eco-friendly Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), sailed from Port Canaveral, Fla., July 31, 2021. As part of its 50th Birthday festivities, Carnival Celebration, sister ship to Mardi Gras, is scheduled to debut in late 2022 from PortMiami, as well as Carnival Jubilee from Galveston in 2023.

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Catamaran cruise in Boka Bay in Montenegro

Written by Gill Dewar on March 1, 2022. Posted in Activity, Cruise, Destination news.

Catamaran cruise in Boka Bay in Montenegro

The TAITI 80 is an elegant catamaran designed to appeal to all categories of passengers.

On-board comfort: Bar, lounge areas, seats, swim ladders, toilets. The entire craft has been designed with comfort in mind.

Water sports: the TAITI 80 is a new tourist product designed to host water sports (diving, canoeing, fishing, dancing, etc.).

Catamaran cruise in Boka Bay in Montenegro

It is ideal for organizing a host of events to complement the standard hotel offering with the added bonus of an enjoyable taste of the sea and an unforgettable sailing experience.

Party catamaran Tahiti is a pearl of Boka Bay. This catamaran is recognised as the largest of those presented in Montenegro. Spacious, with an excellent design, it is perfectly created for elegant weddings, extraordinary parties or unforgettable boat trips with friends.

Tahiti can easily accommodate up to 96 guests with comfort and delight owing to its very impressive size and wide deck.

Onboard of this catamaran you an your guests can do both: dissolve into refreshing sea breeze and gentle sunbeam on the front of the catamaran and dive into a boundless sea of joy and cheer of partying on a dance floor with a bar with a variety of drinks and invariably courteous multilingual staff.

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The tallest vertical garden in the world by Four Seasons – more than 5 km tall!

Written by Leandro Agostini on March 1, 2022. Posted in Destination news, Hotel.

March 1, 2022 – The tallest vertical garden in the world by Four Seasons
– The luxury hospitality company will manage a hotel within an AU$2.7 billion (US$1.94 billion) Melbourne development showcasing how skyscrapers can incorporate the natural environment.

The tallest vertical garden in the world by Four Seasons

Four Seasons Hotel Melbourne will bring outstanding biophilic design to one of Australia’s largest cities.

An inspiring setting

Developer Beulah has selected Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts to manage the hotel within its AU$2.7 billion (US1.94 billion) STH BNK By Beulah development in Melbourne. The much-anticipated project is expected to create Australia’s tallest tower as well as thetallest vertical garden in the world, spanning a total of 5.5 km.

The tallest vertical garden: “Four Seasons was the perfect partner for STH BNK By Beulah and will offer an unmatched hospitality experience, while remaining uniquely Melbourne,” said Adelene Teh, Beulah executive director. “As STH BNK By Beulah continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in the luxury, lifestyle and sustainability spaces, Four Seasons aligned perfectly to our ethos and vision, offering unparalleled experiences, a bold commitment to innovation and fantastic sustainability initiatives across its hotels and resorts.”

Bart Carnahan, president of global business development and portfolio management for Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, added: “We are incredibly proud to partner with Beulah and to be a part of the leading-edge STH BNK By Beulah development. This project will set a new standard for luxury in Melbourne, offering guests an exceptional Four Seasons experience set within an environment that will be unmatched in this market.”

An innovative mixed-use site

It’s envisaged that the mixed-use STH BNK By Beulah project will feature two neighbouring towers.

Crowning the western tower, Four Seasons Hotel Melbourne will accommodate 210 guestrooms, and be accessible via a 63rd-floor sky lobby providing views over the city’s skyline, beachfront and Royal Botanical Gardens. Amenities being promised here include world-class integrated health and wellness space, a rooftop restaurant and bar, and multiple event spaces.

These will be complemented by easy access to the other experiences provided at STH BNK By Beulah, which will be home to lush greenery including a rooftop sky garden, coworking facilities, the STH BNK Market Hall and programming within the art and culture spaces. The wider development will also encompass private residences, a 3,000-seat auditorium, offices, retail, a childcare centre, and a health and wellness precinct.

Four Seasons Hotel Melbourne is set to become the luxury hospitality company’s second property in Australia, following on from Four Seasons Hotel Sydney. Construction of the Melbourne property, which is expected to take around five years in total, is due to begin in late 2022.

Source: tophotel.news

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Sri Lanka scraps off PCR test for travellers from March

Written by Leandro Agostini on March 1, 2022. Posted in Destination news, Travel Advice.

March 1 2022 – Fully vaccinated travellers do not need to take a PCR or Rapid Antigen test, to determine the COVID status before traveling to Sri Lanka from March. This was revealed by the country’s Health Ministry.

Sri Lanka scraps off PCR test for travellers from March

According to the guidelines issued by the ministry, a traveler who has received both doses of a two-dose vaccine, or a recommended combination of them, is considered a fully vaccinated person. Moreover, a person who has taken an approved one dose vaccine, is also considered as fully vaccinated.

Children of 18 years and below, who have obtained at least a single dose of a recognized vaccine, will be considered as fully vaccinated if they leave for Sri Lanka two weeks after completion of vaccination, the Health Ministry said. A person who was infected with COVID-19 between seven days and six months before arriving in Sri Lanka, with at least a single dose of a two-dose vaccine, will also be exempted from taking a COVID-19 test before departure.

However, travellers with a history of COVID-19 infection more than six months before the date of departure with a single dose of a two-dose vaccine and other travelers who are not fully vaccinated, need to carry a negative pre-departure COVID-19 test report when entering the country, the Health Ministry said.

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Source: traveldailymedia

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British Airways to restart Sydney-London services

Written by Leandro Agostini on March 1, 2022. Posted in Airline, Destination news.

March 1, 2022 -Next month, British Airways will fly passengers between Sydney and London for the first time since April 2020.

British Airways to restart Sydney-London services

Sydney’s arrival time for BA15 is set for 6 a.m. on March 29, after departing London Heathrow at 2125 on March 27.

The return flight BA16 will depart Sydney at 1550 on March 29 and arrive in London Heathrow at 0510 on March 30.

Both flights will use B787 aircraft and include a 90-minute stopover in Singapore Changi airport.

First flights to Southwest Pacific for Executive Club members since August 2021 will be these BA flights to Southwest Pacific.

Noella Ferns, British Airways head of sales, Asia Pacific, said:

“We can’t wait to welcome our customers back on board our Sydney to London flights, and we will be honoured to play our part in reuniting families and friends with their loved ones after such a long time apart.

“The safety of our customers and colleagues has always been at the heart of everything we do. We know some customers won’t have flown for a long time, and we can assure them we have a range of Covid-19 measures in place to provide stress and hassle-free travel.

“Since we last flew this route, customers in Australia and the wider region can now join the Executive Club and, with the resumption of flights, can finally start to access some of the amazing benefits on offer.”

Meanwhile, Qantas resumed international services in November 2021 and was scheduled to resume nonstop flights between Perth and London on March 27 but was forced to postpone these plans due to the delay imposed by Western Australia in reopening its borders.

With Premier Mark McGowan’s recent change of heart and the announcement of the reopening of the state borders, Qantas may reconsider its flight plans.

Source: traveldailymedia

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Vista Oceania cruises launches new ship in 2022

Written by Traveltalksteam on March 1, 2022. Posted in Cruise, Destination news.

March 1, 2022 – Vista Oceania cruises launched.

Oceania Cruises, the world’s leading culinary- and destination-focused cruise line, celebrated the float out of its new 67,000-ton, 1,200-guest Vista on February 25^th at the Fincantieri shipyard in Sestri Ponente, Italy, bordering the famed seaport of Genoa. Shortly after the ceremony, held in full compliance with current health regulations, the massive building dock began filling with water and Vista became one with the sea for the very first time.

Vista Oceania cruises

Presiding over the ceremony were Giuseppe Torrente, Shipyard Director for Fincantieri; and His Excellency Monsignor Tasca, Archbishop of Genoa. After the blessing of the ship, the shipyard’s Madrina, Miss Anna Trucco, released a bottle of prosecco against the hull to invite good fortune for the ship and all those that will sail on her.

“Vista is Oceania Cruises’ most anticipated ship in the history of our company, and I am thrilled to be here with our partners from Fincantieri as the ship morphs from blueprints and steel into reality. Vista is truly a ship of dreams, and we cannot wait to welcome her inaugural season guests next year,” stated Howard Sherman, President and CEO of Oceania Cruises.

Luigi Matarazzo, General Manager of the Merchant Ships Division of Fincantieri, stated: “Ten years have passed since we delivered Riviera to our friends at Oceania Cruises, from the same Sestri shipyard. The launch of this new ship therefore represents an important milestone not only of her construction, but also in the consolidation of the relationship with the shipping company. I am sure that Vista Oceania cruises will give life to a new class of ships that will stand out for its refinement and technological advances.”

Vista will sail her maiden voyage from Rome to Barcelona on April 14, 2023, followed by twelve additional European voyages prior to commencing sailings from the United States to the Canadian Maritimes and New England, the Panama Canal, and the Caribbean.

Vista Oceania cruises Highlights

12 dining options, four of them brand-new
1,200 guests served by 800 crew members = two crew members for every three guests
The most spacious standard staterooms at sea – more than 290 square feet
All Penthouse Suites and staterooms feature large bathrooms with oversized rainforest showers
All Owner’s, Vista and Oceania Suites feature luxurious soaking tubs
Palatial Owner’s Suites and top-of-ship Library styled exclusively in Ralph Lauren Home
New Concierge Level Veranda Staterooms for solo travelers
Eight bars, lounges, and entertainment venues
Aquamar Spa + Vitality Center and Aquamar Spa Terrace
Staffed Concierge and Executive Lounges for Concierge Staterooms and Suites, respectively

About Oceania Cruises
Oceania Cruises is the world’s leading culinary- and destination-focused cruise line. The line’s seven small, luxurious ships carry a maximum of 1,210 guests and feature the finest cuisine at sea and destination-rich itineraries that span the globe. Expertly curated travel experiences aboard the designer-inspired, small ships call on more than 450 marquee and boutique ports across Europe, Alaska, Asia, Africa, Australia, New Zealand, New England-Canada, Bermuda, the Caribbean, the Panama Canal, Tahiti and the South Pacific in addition to the epic 180-day Around the World Voyages. The brand has a second 1,200-guest Allura Class ship on order for delivery in 2025. With headquarters in Miami, Oceania Cruises is owned by Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd., a diversified cruise operator of leading global cruise brands which include Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

About Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd.
Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. (NYSE: NCLH) is a leading global cruise company which operates the Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises brands. With a combined fleet of 28 ships with nearly 60,000 berths, these brands offer itineraries to more than 490 destinations worldwide. The Company has nine additional ships scheduled for delivery through 2027, comprising of approximately 24,000 berths.

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Jamaica loosens restrictions as pandemic recedes

Written by Leandro Agostini on March 1, 2022. Posted in Destination news, Travel Advice.

March 1 2022 – From today, international visitors to Jamaica will no longer be required to obtain travel authorisation to enter the island.

Jamaica loosens restrictions as pandemic recedes

Travellers 12 years of age and older will only need to provide a negative result from a Covid-19 antigen or PCR test conducted within 72 hours prior to their travel.

Additionally, travellers to Jamaica will no longer face travel-related quarantine measures.

“Eliminating travel-related quarantines and the need for travellers to fill out and receive approval of the travel authorisation form are key steps in relaxing our travel protocols as the global spread of Covid-19 declines,” said Edmund Bartlett, minister of tourism, Jamaica.

“We are confident that these refreshed entry requirements will increase the appeal of Jamaica as a destination of choice and help us continue on our path to recovery for the tourism sector and wider economy as a whole.”

Jamaica has recently shortened the isolation period required for United States travellers who test positive for Covid-19 while in Jamaica, in keeping with CDC recommended guidelines, and eliminated quarantine restrictions for fully vaccinated business travellers who present a negative PCR test taken within three days of travel to Jamaica.

“We are continually reviewing our Jamaica Cares program and travel protocols to align with best practices from internationally recognised organisations and ensure that Jamaica retains its position as one of the leading tourism destinations,” noted Donovan White, director of tourism, Jamaica Tourist Board.

“These changes are timed to go into effect as destinations across the globe are enacting similar revisions to their travel requirements.”

The health and safety of every Jamaican and every visitor to the country remains the island’s top priority through its comprehensive Jamaica Cares program.

Jamaica Cares is a nationwide response to Covid-19 that includes a comprehensive health and safety protocols which were among the first to receive the World Travel & Tourism Council’s Safe Travels recognition and allowed the island to safely reopen in June of 2020.

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Source: breakingtravelnews

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Aimbridge Hospitality: optimistic outlook and expansion worldwide in 2022

Written by Traveltalksteam on March 1, 2022. Posted in Destination news, Hotel.

March 1, 2022 – Aimbridge Hospitality -optimistic outlook and expansion worldwide in 2022

The world’s leading third-party hotel management company enters the New Year with an optimistic outlook and a surge in organic growth with nearly 50 new hotels opening in eight countries and territories

Aimbridge Hospitality, a leading, global hospitality company, is igniting its strategy, scale, and talent in 2022 with an optimistic outlook for the recovery while its energized team delivers even more value and strong outcomes to its properties and hotel owners, with unparalleled opportunities for its associates.

Aimbridge Hospitality

The company enters 2022 with an advantage of scale that solidifies Aimbridge as a global leader, with a premium portfolio and robust pipeline across all of its eight verticals inclusive of nearly 50 new-build or renovated hotels anticipated to open in eight countries and territories. Highlights of properties joining Aimbridge this year include: in the U.S. the luxury La Salle Chicago, Autograph Collection, The Henderson Beach Resort & Spa in Destin, The Saint Hotel Charleston, and the Marriott Knoxville Downtown; in Mexico, the JW Marriott Guadalajara, Aloft Guadalajara Punto Sur, and Aloft Playa del Carmen; a property in Brussels, Belgium; four properties in the United Kingdom; a Luxury Collection hotel in Moscow, Russia; and, the highly anticipated Frenchman’s Reef in St. Thomas, U.S.V.I.

Mike Deitemeyer, president & C.E.O. of Aimbridge Hospitality, said, “While the industry continues to be challenged, we’re optimistic about the year. Aimbridge has been quick to innovate to meet the challenges on all fronts, which has helped to fuel our growth. We are an industry leader supported by our vast resources, scale, and an experienced team across all facets of hospitality.”

Highlights from 2021 include Aimbridge’s addition of Grupo Hotelero Prisma, its first entrance to the Mexican market, along with the acquisition of Dallas-based Prism Hotels & Resorts, an award-winning full-service management, investment, and advisory services company known for both their traditional hotel management as well as their industry leading hotel receivership advisory. In addition, Aimbridge was selected by NewcrestImage to operate a 27-hotel portfolio, which transitioned to company management in January.

The company launched Taste & Theory Restaurant Group, offering total solutions for food and beverage concepting. Additionally, Aimbridge added to its procurement services capability, further enhancing the company’s capability to provide end-to-end supply chain solutions for the full hotel life cycle.

In a challenging labor market, Aimbridge deployed new recruitment and employment experience initiatives to attract and retain top talent. Aimbridge launched a same-day pay app in June 2021 as a means to address evolving needs of the workforce; Aimbridge associates increasingly participate in the daily pay option. TeamShare was introduced to enable hourly staff to schedule shifts at nearby Aimbridge hotels, a win-win for both the gig worker generation and Aimbridge properties looking to fill gaps in staffing needs. The company also deployed market-based recruiters around the U.S. focused on filling hotel hourly openings. In addition, Corporate Task Force leadership was expanded to 70 leaders to assist hotels with management staffing, and an H2B visa program was initiated with Aimbridge’s Mexico office to raise the U.S. workforce for its managed hotels.

The company will continue to focus on employment value, attracting job seekers and increasing retention, growing the topline, and thinking differently to optimize operations across all verticals in 2022. With a global scale and value equation, Aimbridge Hospitality will apply the full power of its resources to increase its successes across its substantial portfolio of properties.

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1st flight subscription service in the US – Alaska Airlines announced flexible Flight Pass

Written by Traveltalksteam on March 1, 2022. Posted in Airline, Destination news.

March 1, 2022 – 1st flight subscription service in the US

As the only major airline headquartered on the West Coast, Alaska Airlines is blazing a new path for travel with the debut of Flight Pass, an innovative, subscription-based travel offering that takes value and flexibility to the next level.

1st flight subscription service in the US

Available from mid February, Flight Pass members can fly up to 24 roundtrip flights a year to the most popular routes within California, as well as nonstop service from California airports to Reno, Phoenix and Las Vegas, for a fixed monthly rate. With annual plans starting at $49 per month, this new way to fly allows travelers to lock in main cabin deals for a full year and rewards subscribers with lower than average fares on eligible flights.

“Flight Pass builds on our mission to offer travelers the most West Coast destinations at the best value,” said Alex Corey, managing director of business development and products for Alaska Airlines. “Our commitment to care means offering convenient and affordable options that fit our guests’ lifestyle and connect them to where they want to go.

After two years of staying close to home, guests are ready to travel again and with 100 daily flights from 16 airports throughout California and between California to Reno, Phoenix and Las Vegas, Flight Pass will take them there.”

1st flight subscription service in the US:

Flight Pass subscribers can choose between two annual plans – based on the best value or most flexibility – that differ only in the length of the required advanced booking time. Subscribers will receive credits deposited monthly or bi-monthly into their Flight Pass account, to be redeemed for 6, 12 or 24 nonstop trips a year to eligible destinations. Flyers are still required to pay applicable government taxes and airport fees on each flight, in addition to the monthly subscription fee and nominal fare (most flights the fare is only $0.01).

Travel trend reports reveal that most Americans are planning domestic travel in 2022, particularly to warm-weather and beach destinations – and some are even more willing to be spontaneous and flexible on future trips.¹ Anyone with 2022 goals to see and do more are in luck. Flight Pass locks in a great deal for a year of travel with varying options that will fit every budget and lifestyle.

How To Take Flight with Flight Pass

Sign up by creating an account at www.flightpass.alaskaair.com.
Pick your preferred plan:
- Best value – Flight Pass: Starts at $49 per month, requires booking at least 14 days before travel, and as early as 90 days in advance.
- Most flexible – Flight Pass Pro: Starts at $199 per month, allows same-day booking up to two hours before departure, and as early as 90 days in advance.
Choose the number of roundtrips you would like annually: 6, 12 or 24 roundtrip flights.
Redeem your credits and book your trip on an eligible flight.
- Choose from 100 daily flights connecting 13 California airports to each other and to Reno, Phoenix, and Vegas
Enjoy your flight!

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