News in Brief: Tuesday April 9
Luxury cruise line Seabourn has launched its online training course to Australian travel agents.
Seabourn Academy features six modules and a range of tips and techniques to help agents build high end sales.
Etihad has been given the green light to put its EY flight code on Aer Lingus transatlantic services from Dublin.
The US Department of Transport approval means that Etihad will offer 10 weekly codeshare flights to Boston via Dublin, eight to Chicago and 12 to New York with immediate effect.
Passengers will be able to “pre-clear” US Customs and Border Protection in Dublin.
The two carriers announced an interline and codeshare agreement in July. Etihad holds a 2.87% stake in the Irish national carrier.
Swiss International Airlines has become Hahn Air’s 260th partner airline. It is the 8th carrier to sign an interline e-ticketing agreement with the distribution company.
Intercontinental Hotels Group has opened its third Holiday Inn property in Bangkok – the Holiday Inn Bangkok Sukhumvit 22.
New Caledonia Tourism will update agents on developments in the destination at an event at Sydney’s Amora Hotel Jamison on May 1 from 5.30.
The parent company of Sydney-based Bench International, Southern Cross Safaris, has predicted an uplift in tourism to Kenya on the back of recent peaceful elections.
But it stressed the importance of booking through registered and licensed operators.
Metro Apartments Bank Place in Melbourne is nearing the end of a refurbishment process that began in September.
The revamp, due for completion in May, includes new kitchens and bathrooms in all apartments along with new lighting carpeting and furnishings.
Metro Hospitality Group chief executive George Bedwani reported strong occupancy at the property.
Oaks Hotels and Resorts has added a second UAE property to its portfolio as it forges ahead with its international expansion.
The announcement of Oaks Liwa Executive Suites, located in Abu Dhabi, follows recent news Oaks will open its fourth Melbourne property, Oaks on William, in August.
Low cost carrier Scoot has launched Nanjing, China as its 11th destination.
From June 3, the airline will operate three times weekly service between Singapore Changi international Airport and Nanjing Lukou International Airport, its fourth Chinese destination.
Introductory fares start from S$98.
Email the Travel Weekly team at traveldesk@travelweekly.com.au
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