News in Brief: Thursday September 18
Singapore Airlines have today launched a range of early bird specials for 2015 offering over 200 European destinations.
Singapore Airlines’ senior manager marketing and alliances Australia, Dale Woodhouse said, “Each year our ever popular Early Bird fares provide us with an opportunity to offer Australian travellers with excellent value for money. This year we've taken a new approach and raised the bar with our Great Early Bird Offer to further leverage the full-service value that Singapore Airlines can provide.
For more information click here.
Some of the worlds most influential instagrammers will visit Dubai over the next four weeks to experience the emirate through the eyes of its residents. Following a specific itinerary, 12 instagrammers will follow the tailor-made program that has been designed for them by another 12 influential Dubai-based instagrammers.
Their experiences of Dubai will collectively form the #MyDubai Trip video series, which is being produced in partnership between Dubai’s Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) and Qabeela New Media, creators of the award-winning travel series Peeta Planet.
The Wicked Witch of the West from the award-winning musical theatre blockbuster WICKED flew into Sydney today, ahead of the first performance at the Capitol Theatre on September 20.
Describing WICKED as a once in a lifetime experience, WICKED Australia co-producer John Frost said, “We are thrilled to bring WICKED back to its home at the Capitol Theatre in Sydney as part of the 10th Anniversary tour of this Broadway blockbuster.”
Seahaven Noosa has received a 4.5 rating by Star ratings Australia AAA Tourism for its serviced apartments.
Seahaven Noosa’s manager Lee-Ann Hay said “We are thrilled with the announcement of our 4.5* rating, we feel that this accurately reflects our extensive range of facilities, high standard of service that we deliver and the luxury finish of our absolute beachfront resort.”
United Airlines today launched its Mercedes-Benz tarmac transportation service at Denver International Airport, offering chauffeured convenience at more airports than any other carrier.
The transportation service provides the airline’s top frequent flyers with comfort and convenience, offering an additional way for these customers to save valuable time when connecting through the airline’s hubs.
"The expansion of the tarmac transfer program to our entire U.S. hub network meets the needs of more customers at more points throughout their travels.” United’s vice president of customer experience Jimmy Samartzis said.
Accor has announced the appointment of Jean-Philippe Lagarde to the role of general manager at Novotel Perth Langley.
First joining Accor in 1992 as food & beverage manager at the Ibis Tour Eiffel in Paris, Lagarde has since worked in leading rolls across a range of Novatel locations.
“I am very excited to continue my journey with Accor in Australia and discover all of the wonderful tourism experiences that Western Australia has to offer. I look forward to meeting new people and working with our hotel and tourism partners to continue the success of Novotel Perth Langley in the business and leisure travel markets.” Lagarde said.
Magellan Travel Group has welcomed the addition of two new outlets this September- Champagne Travel Warnbro in WA and www.cruises.com.au.
Allianz Global Assistance has appointed Craig Dalzell as its new chief financial officer.
Officially joining the team on September 22, Dalzell brings over 20 years’ experience in finance and accounting across multiple industries including government and health sectors.
With Dalzell’s wealth of industry and leadership experience, Allianz Global Assistance CEO John Myler said, “We look forward to welcoming Craig into a pivotal role within the Allianz Global Assistance team.”
The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) has announced today the appointment of Becky Ip as the deputy executive director.
Based in the head office in Hong Kong, Ip will drive the business and market development of the HKTB, by leading the business development division in composing strategic trade partnerships for Hong Kong tourism.
HKTB executive director Anthony Lau said, “I am delighted with the appointment of Becky, and confident that with her extensive experience with the HKTB and the tourism industry she will steer our business to new heights.”
Tigerair has announced customers are now permitted to use personal electronic devices for the duration of their flight when activated to flight mode.
The green light for the extended use of personal electronic devices was provided by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) following recent new guidance on the safe use of personal electronic devices inflight.
Tigerair’s commercial director Adam Rowe welcomed this decision and said “Most people these days keep their personal devices within arm’s reach for multiple reasons, so being able to continually access them during the flight will help further make travel with Tigerair a seamless and enjoyable experience,” Rowe said.
Latest News
Holland America Line gives agents the chance to visit Alaska on 11-day Famil
If you've ever wanted to see a Polar Bear (and who doesn't?), now is your time.
More than 65 luxury agents gather in Sydney for Best of the Best dinner
This looks like a fabulous do. We imagine there may be a few (or maybe 65) sore heads this morning!
Globally-renowned chefs gather for Vivid Food 2024
As a human, we agree that food is a fundamental part of the human experience. Some might say the most fundamental.
Air New Zealand returns to Hobart and Seoul
If you notice an uptick in Kiwis making their way through the Mona, you know why.
European Waterways targets multi-generational families with ‘floating villa’ deal
The jury is still out on whether spending a week on a 'floating villa' with family is a hell or a paradise.
Luxury Escapes launches ‘sail away’ sale
Rest assured, you'll be getting your 'sails' and 'sales' mixed up for the rest of the day.
Rex-owned National Jet Express adds weekly charter between Brisbane and Orange
This is for mining and civil contractors, so please, put your holiday attire away.
Let the games begin. Viking introduces eye-watering benefits for the industry’s top 10 advisors
Did someone say 'trip to Venice'? Hold my coat, this one is far too good to miss!
Best friends or frenemies? What is the REAL relationship between sales and marketing?
We can all stop fighting over the corner office because our mothers were right - we are all important in our own way.
The Walshe Group Announces Two Key Appointments
What we really want to know is whether they got joint or separate welcome parties.
FAMIL: Agents explore the delights of Mauritius on 7-day tour
Go green with envy as you read this fabulous itinerary! Time to book that second honeymoon.
Hamad International recognised as world’s best airport at 2024 Skytrax World Airport Awards
Hamad airport is so good it is almost considered a destination in itself. Ballina, up your game.
Saudi Arabia highlights tourism investment opportunities at global investment event
Now is the time to start looking at Saudi Arabia if you are not already. There's big things to come.
“Rampant” – Aussies warned as dengue fever cases spike in Bali
Worried about Bali belly? Now you have something else to worry about.
TTC Tour Brand reveals slew of deals across operators including Trafalgar and Contiki
Everybody loves a bargain and you could do lot a lot worse than check out these deals from TTC!
Fiji Airways partners with Porter Airlines in US growth bid
Any initiative that gets more people visiting the delights of Fiji is a good initiative.
Flight Centre launches CruiseHQ – a marketplace exclusively for agents
The cruise industry has surpassed pre-Covid levels so this isn't one to miss!
Feeling festive? Wendy Wu tours unwraps Christmas collection
Get the Christmas hols booked now and avoid spending it with that elderly relative with dubious political views.
OPINION: In a world of screens, we crave experience
If you get feelings of deep shame and regret when you see your screen time, don't worry - you're not alone.
Sun Princess: High-end dining and world class entertainment awaits
If you are a foodie and you are not currently on the Sun Princess, we really have to ask - what are you doing?
YouGov: 2 in 5 Aussies would pay more for a sustainable hotel
If you want to be REALLY sustainable you can go camping. You just might lose the will to live.
“Can planes swim?” – Planes become boats as Dubai Airport is savaged by severe storm
Unfortunately, "can planes swim?" is a real life question and not an opener to a really bad joke...
Explora journeys reveals bespoke outdoor furniture designed by Matteo Nunziati
This is making your plastic table and chairs look really bad now, isn't it?
Bangkok Airways targets growth with renewed Sabre deal
Two stories abut Sabre's growth in one week and its only Wednesday! Watchout world.
PR agency Example wins pitch for InterContinental Sydney
We also went in for the contract but they said that a 'Be Our Guest'- themed TikTok was unoriginal! The cheek.
Norwegian Cruise Line reveals culinary experience aboard Norwegian Aqua
Once again, this TW journalist REALLY regrets writing this before getting lunch.
Signature Queensland hosts luxury tourism event
Known for its tropical beaches and unique wildlife, Queensland also offers luxury.
Capella Sydney recognised in prestigious Travel + Leisure’s 2024 ‘it list’ of best new hotels
You know that 'it girl' at school who everyone wanted to hang out with? Capella is the hotel version of that.
Rex launches 72-hour fare sale with NO school holiday blackout so you can take your kids (if you want to)
Sadly, leaving your children at home whilst you go on holiday is generally frowned upon.
Adventure World offers chance to connect with “heart and soul” of the US
I mean who hasn't dreamed of a road trip around the US?! Go with Adventure World and you're less likely to get lost.
Fiji’s family-owned luxury resort Likuliku Lagoon launches its own app
We were relieved to find out that having a "concierge in your pocket" referred to an app on your phone.
Hawaii: The US’ laid-back front door for Australians
If you needed another sign that you should definitely head to Hawaii - this is it!
Sabre targets Asia Pacific growth with latest hire
Call the Avengers! Sabre continues its bid for world domination with latest hire.
Air New Zealand signs its largest EVER deal for sustainable aviation fuel
Air New Zealand makes huge step towards sustainable travel. We bet it recycles its rubbish properly too.
IHG Hotels & Resorts continues regional growth with Sunshine Coast Holiday Inn
This Holiday Inn looks considerably flashier than some of the ones we have stayed at in our time.
Budget carrier Scoot welcomes first of 9 E190-E2 aircrafts
Here at TW we would like to offer Embraer E190-E2 a warm welcome! It's not easy being the first of the fleet.