News in Brief: Tuesday July 9

News in Brief: Tuesday July 9
By admin


Tourism minister Gary Gray has confirmed three members of Tourism Australia's board of directors have been reppointed.

Brett Godfrey, Mark Stone and Didier Elzinga will retain their positions for a further three years until June 30, 2016.

 

International arrivals to Australia rose 4.9% to 293,900 in May year on year according to the latest Australian Bureau of Statistics' figures.

The Tourism and Transport Forum (TTF) said the strong growth reinforces the contribution of the tourism industry to the economy.

"Tourism will continue to provide jobs and business opportunities for Australia as the economy transitions from its dependence on resources," chief executive Ken Morrison said.

 

Oceania Cruises has revealed details of its first ever round the world cruise aboard the 684-guest Insignia.

The 180-day voyage will set sail from Miami on January 10, 2015 and will visit five continents, 44 countries and 89 ports of call with Australia included on the itinerary.

 

P&O Cruises will offer short itineraries from Sydney to Melbourne for the Australian Open in January 2014.

Fares will include accommodation, onboard entertainment, activities and main meals along with transfers to and from the stadium. There is also the opportunity to upgrade to Rod Laver Arena from $100 per person.

 

AirPlus customers can now benefit from fee-free payments when making Qantas ticket purchases using their Universal Air Travel Plan network card following new guidlines from the Reserve Bank of Australia.

The changes have also seen fees lowered on standard credit card, Visa Debit and MasterCard Debit transactions, but the UATP payments now offer the only fee-free alternative to cash offered by the airline.

Email the Travel Weekly team at traveldesk@travelweekly.com.au

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