News in Brief: Monday August 5
Swiss International Air Lines saw profits rise 18% year on year in the first half with the carrier attributing the imrpovement to the stabilisation of its market environment and a strong business performance in the second quarter,
However, chief executive Harry Hohmeister warned the outlook remains tough with high fuel costs a particular consideration as the airline continues to work towards a "results turnaround".
"We're currently in the midst of some major structural adjustments to our European operations like out new organisation and fare model for Geneva," he said. "And we must continue to consistently develop and ambark on such bold new paths."
Meanwhile, Swiss manager Australia Anil Rodricks reported strong bookings from the Australian market for its non-stop Singapore service, with business bookings particularly strong.
The US has emerged as the number one dream destination for Australian travellers, according to a survey by Hotelclub.
Of the 2500 respondents, 16.2% chose the US as their top choice, with Italy in second place with 8% and the UK in third place.
The accommodation website said the trend was supported by sales, reporting a 110% increase in New York hotel bookings, 57% in those for Las Vegas and 23% for Los Angeles.
Meanwhile, Broome was the number one Australian dream destination.
Corporate travel company Spencer Travel and technology firm Tramada have renewed their partnership, taking it into its 15th year.
A "phenomenal" response to Scenic Tours' recent episode on travel TV show Getaway has prompted the operator to schedule additional tour departure dates.
The fve additional departures include those that coincide with the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.
Youth operator Contiki is once again offering tickets to Californian music festival Coachella as part of its six day We love Coachella 2014 itinerary.
The tour is priced from $1795 per person with departures on April 9 and 16.
Accor's Pullman hotel brand has been named the official hotel partner of the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Festival Sydney, to take place at Town Hall from August 21 to 24.
Its Shop, Play and Stay package designed to coincide with the festival is priced from $269 and is available through to the end of 2013.
Email the Travel Weekly team at traveldesk@travelweekly.com.au
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