Virgin scraps free food from its economy class
Virgin Australia has scrapped the free food offering in its economy class, with passengers only receiving complimentary water, tea, or coffee on flights.
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The domestic air travel market in Australia is recovering quickly
Exactly twelve months ago, the number of domestic flights operated in Australia was going into a steep decline. Now, the market is rapidly increasing.
New Zealand not yet ready for two-way travel bubble
PM Jacinta Ardern has told the press that more time is needed to set up the two-way travel bubble with Australia that has been bursting since October last year.
Qantas boss: Governments ‘to insist’ on vaccines for flying
Qantas CEO Alan Joyce has told the BBC that "governments are going to insist" on vaccines for international travellers.
Two-way Trans-Tasman bubble is not far off
After a week of sustained pressure in parliament, New Zealand's deputy prime minister says quarantine-free travel for Australians is "not far off".
Air New Zealand sets sights on Hobart
The airline will be launching a non-stop service between Auckland and Hobart once quarantine-free travel is up and running
Qantas CEO issues border closures alert
Qantas boss Alan Joyce has warned tourists and students could abandon Australia if border closures remain a long-term plank of pandemic proofing.
Details of the Australian government’s AUD1.2 billion ‘Ticket to Recovery’
Australian travellers will have access to hundreds of thousands of half-price airfares to more than a dozen tourism-reliant regions, subsidised by the government as part of the package…
Aussie government gives new support package that doubles previous commitment to travel industry
Tourism minister Dan Tehan has just confirmed that another AUD 128 million (USD 128 million) will be available to assist travel industry businesses dealing with the ongoing closure of…
Australian border reopening can happen after this, says epidemiologist
According to a leading epidemiologist, Australian borders may reopen after 40% to 60% of the whole population has been vaccinated.
‘It’s All Good’ to travel, says Accor
Accor, the largest hotel operator in Australia and New Zealand, continues to invest in the resurgence of domestic travel and is instilling confidence in travellers with its latest campaign –…
Qantas launches Mystery Flight Experiences
Qantas announced on Wednesday the latest innovative offer to combat the closure of international borders by offering a series of flights.
Australia extends international travel ban for three more months until 17 June
Australian health minister Greg Hunt has said the country has extended its international travel ban till 17 June
Qantas to roll out health passports this week
Qantas announced that it is looking into the use of digital health pass apps to help resume safe international travel.
Australians will need a visa waiver to travel to Europe from 2022
Australians travelling to Europe will need to apply online for a visa waiver (similar to the US) from the end of 2022.
Even Better With You! This new campaign is welcoming interstate travellers to experience new Brisbane
Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner is welcoming visitors back to Brisbane with the launch of an interstate domestic tourism campaign highlighting the city’s appealing new attributes
Qantas delays international return until the end of October
After announcing a loss of AUD1.1 billion in the first half of the 2021 fiscal year, the Qantas group delayed expectations on when it will resume international services.
Qantas reveals shocking AUD 1 billion six-month loss
The national carrier of Australia, Qantas, has revealed that it has now posted an underlying loss of AUD 1.1 billion (USD 858 million) in the six months to 31 December 2020
Australia will require COVID-19 vaccination for entry
Alan Joyce, Qantas CEO hinted that said Australia would re-open to visitors in July.
Air New Zealand’s global digital travel pass a reality soon
Air New Zealand customers and employees will be among the first to trial a digital initiative to get people moving safely across the globe again
Former WHO epidemiologist urges Australia to shut borders
Australia should shut its borders to overseas travellers immediately and build specialist quarantine centres, according to a former World Health Organisation epidemiologist.
Australian PM would love to see Pacific travel bubbles
PM Scott Morrison has hinted that travel bubble with pacific neighbouring countries may not be far away.
Proper quarantine methods vs. placing a state or city in lockdown
Does it cost more to put in place a proper quarantine system in hotels outside capital cities and with hotel workers fully protected and monitored, or does it cost more placing an entire…
Cathay Pacific to axe flights to Australia except for Sydney
Cathay Pacific Airways has announced they will be axing all flights to Australia, except routes servicing Sydney, following Hong Kong’s plan to introduce tough new quarantine rules on…
Australia’s vaccine rollout to start on 22 February
The first batch of Pfizer vaccine has arrived in Australia and the vaccination process will begin on 22 February.
Rex offers USD49 Sydney-Melbourne fares, business class at USD199
With its first Sydney-Melbourne flights barely three weeks away, Regional Express is showing just how heated competition could get on Australia's most popular route.
Qantas allows more flexible flying
Qantas is now offering more flexibility to customers wanting to change their travel dates, now allowing unlimited flight changes until January 2022.
Australia will quarantine overseas visitors even after Covid vaccine rollout
Australia has said today that it would keep mandatory two-week quarantine for all overseas visitors, even as vaccinations are rolled out across the country and the world
STAAH reveals top online channels for 2020
The commission-free STAAH booking engine comes to hoteliers’ aid as the accommodation industry comes out of a pandemic-struck 2020.
Virgin Australia Cancel all Short Haul International Flights
Virgin announced yesterday all short-haul international services would be cancelled until June 19.
Sydney to Use Drones for Monitoring Beaches and Parks
Surf Life Saving New South Wales has decided to use drones to monitor all beaches across Sydney in order to ensure that people are following COVID-19 guidelines.
Steering cruise travel towards innovative sustainability in Asia Pacific region
As the travel industry is busy getting back on its feet, Travel Daily Media caught up with Damian Perry, managing director of Asia Pacific Region at Hurtigruten
An indigenous immersion: Arcadia unveils new Australian expedition
Arcadia Expeditions has announced the release of its latest expedition – ‘Indigenous Immersion: The Art of Storytelling’, a 15-day air safari travelling to rarely-visited parts of the…
Australia reopens New Zealand travel bubble
After no new COVID-19 cases, Australia reopened its travel bubble with New Zealand on 31 January to mark the resumption of the only international arrivals into Australia
Queensland to Reopen Border for New South Wales
Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk announced this morning that the state will open its border with NSW on the 1st of February.
The Bubble between Australia and New Zealand has Burst Again
With the recent discovery of 1 case of the Coronavirus variant in New Zealand, Australia has now paused quarantine-free travel from New Zealand for at least three days.
Coronavirus vaccine approved by TGA and jab to be bulk billed
The nation's medical regulator the Therapeutic Goods Administration has approved Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine for use in Australia.
Air New Zealand makes face masks mandatory for all flights
Air New Zealand requires the use of face masks on all international flights to and from New Zealand as a result of updated overseas government border requirements and as a further proactive…
Emirates resumes flights to Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne
Emirates has announced today that it will resume flights in and out of Australia, reversing a decision it made only a week ago.
AIME Cancels 2021 Event Due COVID-19 Implications
Asia Pacific Incentives and Meetings Event (AIME) has today announced the cancellation of the 2021 event, which was scheduled to be hosted at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre…
Australia to lose 320,000 tourism jobs and USD 7 billion amid border shutdown
Australia’s tourism industry is forecast to lose almost USD 7 billion and place 320,000 jobs at risk over the summer holiday period due to domestic and international border closures brought…
WHO Asks Australia Not to Rush COVID Vaccinations
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has implored Australia, and other wealthy nations, not to rush their COVID vaccinations amid fears some countries will not be able to inoculate their…
Current Coronavirus Border Restrictions Around Australia
Here are the various state restrictions as they stand:
Virgin Australia Extends Free Booking Flexibility
Virgin Australia announced last week that is offering booking flexibility for travel until 30 June this year.
Australia’s top health chief believes travel unlikely in 2021
Australia’s top health chief has dashed hopes that the rollout of the vaccine will allow people to travel overseas this year as borders stay closed.
Australia to remain close for some time despite vaccine roll out
Australia’s other COVID-19 containment measures, such as border restrictions, “will have to continue for some time” as the vaccine is rolled out.
Government introduces new rules for International Travel
International passengers returning to Australia will now be required to provide a pre-flight negative COVID test, while masks will become compulsory on all flights, under new National…
New Zealand to ask international travellers to show negative COVID-19 results
New Zealand will ask international travellers from most countries to show negative COVID-19 test results before boarding flights to the country as new contagious variants of COVID-19 spread…
Australia Moves COVID-19 Vaccine Rollout to Early March
With the community transmission not giving up, particularly in Sydney, Melbourne, and now Brisbane where from 6:00pm tonight people living in greater Brisbane, will be required to stay home…
Brisbane lifts virus lockdown
Australia’s third-largest city has lifted stay-at-home orders, after mass testing and tracing across Brisbane found no new coronavirus cases despite fears over a contagious strain entering…
Qantas plans to restart international scheduled flights in July
Qantas is re-opening international flight bookings on all its regular routes from July 1, 2021.
Air New Zealand begins quarantine-free flights to Brisbane
Air New Zealand has announced it will operate first quarantine-free flight from Auckland to Brisbane on 7 January
Australia reimposes travel restrictions amid rising new cases of Covid-19
More Australian states and territories are reimposing travel restrictions to prevent the spreading of the coronavirus from new outbreaks in New South Wales and Victoria states
Playing Santa: Air New Zealand donates over million items to Kiwi organisations
During the course of 2020, Air New Zealand has donated more than one million items to organisations around the country
To UK with love! Giant Christmas message from Aussies to Brits etched into beach
An Australian beach has taken the form of an enormous Christmas card, with a heartfelt message from Australia to the UK created in the sand
PONANT receives green light to recommence luxury expeditions in New Zealand
Ponant's Le Lapérouse, to recommence operations exclusively in New Zealand waters for New Zealanders from February 2021.
Air New Zealand launches unaccompanied minors’ squad
Air New Zealand has set up a dedicated team to look after the unprecedented number of unaccompanied minors expected to travel domestically to and from Auckland this summer
Podcast: My Sydney Boat Beckons
Sydney Harbour is arguably the most beautiful harbour in the world. It is also the largest natural harbour in the world.
Featuring: Steve Collins & Mark Dalgleish
New Zealand looks forward to travel bubble with Australia in early 2021
New Zealand’s Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said the cabinet has agreed in principle on a trans-Tasman, quarantine-free travel bubble pending confirmation by Australia’s cabinet and no…
New Zealand announces first travel bubble with Cook Islands
New Zealand has created its first reciprocal travel bubble since the new coronavirus prompted border closures around the world with the Cook Islands
Queensland to reopen borders to South Australia
Australian domestic borders are all open as Queensland has announced that will re-open its borders to South Australia.
Happy feet! Phillip Island Nature Parks enhances visitor capacity
Phillip Island Nature Parks, Australia has increased capacity at the Penguin Parade and the planned re-opening of the Nobbies Centre and Antarctic Journey
Qantas international travel will not resume until July 2021
Qantas CEO Alan Joyce says the Australian domestic sector has had a massive bounce back, but fears for the future of international travel recovery.
Taking Hilton’s ambitious plan forward in Southeast Asia
Hilton’s vice-president of operations in Southeast Asia, Paul Hutton, catches up with Travel Daily Media about overseeing forty-three hotels across nine markets and driving the brand's…
Steve McLaughlin joins Aurora Expeditions for Asia-Pacific growth
Australian-owned Aurora Expeditions welcomes cruise industry veteran Steve McLaughlin as its new director of sales in Asia-Pacific
Tourism New Zealand invites everyone to turn disappointments into Forest of Hope
Tourism New Zealand is partnering with Trees That Count to build a Forest of Hope.
Tourism Fiji launches the Care Fiji Commitment
Tourism Fiji has launched the Care Fiji Commitment programme – designed to reassure travellers that Fiji is a safe destination to visit on their next holiday.
Australia’s Queensland reopens borders
The Australian state of Queensland has reopened its borders to the residents from New South Wales (NSW) and Victoria on 1 December, after months of restrictions due to the Covid-19 pandemic
Melbourne To Resume International Flights from December 7
Victorian Premier Dan Andrews said Melbourne will once again welcome overseas flights.
‘How to go in 2021’: The ultimate travel list that you need
Intrepid Travel has released its first ‘How To Go in 2021’ list, highlighting key trends that will shape travel in the next year
How Qantas is offering fast-track to higher status to attract corporate travellers
The move could help boost Qantas’ market share in lucrative corporate and high-end leisure travel as domestic flights ramp up in Australia due to the reopening of state borders
Qantas, Jetstar, and Virgin add additional flights
With the re-opening of the NSW borders for Victoria, Australian carriers have announced several additional flights between the two states.
Qantas and Jetstar will operate a combined 17…
Sunshine State reopening! Queensland to open border with Sydney on 1 December
Queensland will open its borders to Greater Sydney on 1 December after the city recorded no mystery cases of Covid-19 for 28 days in a row
Hear hear! Podcast listening up 70% in Australia
TellMeWhere2Go (TMW2G) reports the top three podcasts are about timeshare, Maldives and an aviation museum, and the most popular platform is Spotify, then Anchor
Far East Hospitality excites with expansion plans in APAC
Far East Hospitality has announced that it will forge ahead with its local and regional expansion plans with three properties – Oasia Resort Sentosa, Far East Village Hotel Yokohama, and…
Podcast: Northern Territory
Australia’s Northern Territory is possibly closest to most people’s impression of what Australia could be: vast deserts, lush rainforests, hot weather, iconic land formations
‘Twas the flight before Christmas! Air New Zealand’s giveaway to spread joy to Australians
Air New Zealand’s new Christmas video, ‘Twas the Flight Before Christmas, comes with a chance for five lucky Aussies to win return flights to New Zealand
Coronavirus outbreak in Adelaide puts in limbo borders re-opening
Since this is the first outbreak since April, the state authorities have ramped up testing and brought in new restrictions.
New Zealand PM doubts two-way travel bubble with Australia by Christmas
New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has admitted that there is very little chance for New Zealand to fully reopen to Australia by Christmas.
Australia to expand travel bubble in APAC
Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison is reportedly holding discussions with several low-risk Asian countries in order to expand the country’s travel bubble with no quarantine.
Podcast: Katherine Gorge Tour, Northern Territory
You’re in Darwin on holiday, you want to see a lot more of the Northern Territory, but there’s a mileage limit on the rental car, so could this be a problem?
Australia reopening “slowly, but safely”
After months of closed borders, a top official hinted on Australia reopening soon.
New CEO signals exciting chapter for Aurora Expeditions
Australian-owned Aurora Expeditions has welcomed Monique Ponfoort as CEO, marking the start of an exciting new chapter in small-ship expedition travel
Globus and Cosmos unveil new tours in Australia and New Zealand
Globus and Cosmos have launched new collection of Australian and New Zealand tours created specifically for local travellers
Air New Zealand unveils 2020 sustainability report
The report encompasses issues such as supporting people and communities, tackling climate change, supporting New Zealand through sustainable tourism, working with suppliers and reducing…
No quarantine needed: Singapore to allow tourists from China, Australia
Starting 6 November, Singapore will allow all travellers from China and state of Victoria, Australia without the need for quarantine as long as they negative from COVID-19 upon arrival.
3 real-life horror stories of travellers found dead during their holiday
Here are some of the real-life horror stories of travellers that became headlines in the APAC region.
CTM acquires Tramada to boost corporate travel
Australia-based Corporate Travel Management (CTM) has today affirmed the acquisition of Sydney-based travel technology company Tramada Holdings
Australia mulls to reopen state borders in time for the holidays
Australia is planning to reopen state borders by Christmas as well as ways to bring citizens home from abroad safely.
Vanuatu Tourism adopts well-being approach for COVID-19 recovery
The Vanuatu Department of Tourism (DoT), and Planet Happiness have partnered to measure the happiness and well-being of residents throughout Vanuatu’s six provinces.
Podcast: Hawkes Bay New Zealand
As it juts out into the Pacific Ocean, the folk in Hawke’s Bay boast that it is the first place in New Zealand to see the sunrise.
New Zealand unveils new travel reimbursement scheme to support agents affected by COVID-19
New Zealand has announced that it will pay travel agencies 7.5% of all refunds and 5% of credits successfully secured on behalf of consumers to help the travel and tourism sector
Travel bubbles that could potentially happen soon
According to Sydney Airport CEO, more travel bubbles could happen as soon as early 2021, to Singapore, South Korea and Japan.
Virgin Australia CEO Paul Scurrah to step down in November
Paul Scurrah will stand down when Virgin is formally handed in early November and former Jetstar boss Jayne Hrdlicka will take over as CEO.
APAC nations begin to ease travel bans but hurdles remain
Asia-Pacific countries including Singapore, Australia and Japan are gradually easing some international travel restrictions as coronavirus cases slow, in hopes of helping to revive their…
Australia reopening to international tourists in late 2021
Australia reopening for international travel may not happen until late 2021.
Exploring Magical Australia with Kids: Get Ready for a Fun-Field Trip
parents have certainly found themselves in an, especially challenging situation, spending almost every waking moment in close quarters with their youngsters, even while trying to work…
New Zealand’s passport most powerful in the world, knocks off Japan from top position
As per the recent global rankings, New Zealand passport is now the most powerful in the world
Business events get green signal across New Zealand
Auckland’s move to Alert Level 1 is great news for the business events industry and will give decision-makers confidence across the country
Sustainable dining: Ovolo unveils ‘year of the veg’
Ovolo Hotels has launched the ‘Year of the Veg’ becoming the first hotel group to go completely vegetarian across all its restaurants, bars, and food services for an entire year
Singapore adds Australia, Vietnam green lanes
Starting October 8, Singapore will lift border restrictions with Vietnam and Australia, excluding Victoria state.
Podcast: Rest, Rejuvenate & Repeat at Crystal Creek Rainforest Retreat
Hidden on the Far North Coast of New South Wales, Australia in the Tweed region is Crystal Creek Rainforest Retreat. A scenic hour drive from the Gold Coast and you are on the doorstep of…
Reopening now: Queensland throws open borders to parts of New South Wales
The 41 postcodes that make up Byron, Ballina, Lismore, Richmond Valley and Glenn Innes shires will be welcome in Queensland on 1 October
‘Messages from New Zealand’ delivers dose of heart-warming Kiwi hospitality
Tourism New Zealand virtually launched its new campaign ‘Messages from New Zealand' that features everyday New Zealanders sharing video messages of hope and care
PCMA launches ‘Convening Asia Pacific’ forum to support business events industry recovery
PCMA will host a one-day hybrid event that will feature workshops to build the practical skills and knowledge event professionals and businesses need to be successful in the recovery phase…
Podcast – Queensland Air Museum, Sunshine Coast – Queensland
Featuring: Tiana Templeman
Queensland Air Museum at Caloundra is home to an amazing collection of aircraft and aviation artefacts, and exciting tales of courage, adventure and lucky…
Changing course: Qantas mulls shifting headquarters from Sydney in new cost reduction drive
Qantas Airways is considering shifting its headquarters from Sydney in an effort to cut costs as the pandemic forces it to scale down operations
Luxury Fairmont hotel brand arrives to Australia for the first time
Accor will bring the luxury Fairmont brand to Australia for the first time, with the announcement that the Fairmont Port Douglas is set to open in Far North Queensland in 2023.
Ovolo South Yarra: A place where retro chic and pop-art meet
Ovolo Group continues its expansion with the announcement of Ovolo South Yarra
Tourism Fiji raises toast to women power and Bula Spirit
Tourism Fiji has announced the appointment of three new highly experienced and knowledgeable directors to its board
Yet another blow! Air New Zealand’s chief commercial officer resigns
Owing to the airline’s current domestic status amid the pandemic, Air New Zealand has just announced the resignation of Cam Wallace, its chief commercial and customer officer
Australians…are we still Young and Free?
On the 17th of March 2020 the Australian Government has implemented a total travel ban both outbound and inbound on all its residents. The ban was originally meant to be lifted on the 17th…
Princess Cruises announces extension of pause of operations in Australia
Due to the continued progression of COVID-19 and related decisions of various governments, health authorities, and airlines regarding travel restrictions, Princess Cruises is extending its…
P&O Cruises Australia extends its pause in operations to December
P&O Cruises Australia is extending its rolling pause in operations from Australia to 2 December this year as the cruise line continues to take guidance from authorities, public health…
New Zealand marks 100-day of no new COVID-19 case
New Zealand has gone 100 days with no new COVID-19 case to add to its incredibly low statistics. I mean, 100 days! How did they do it?
Helping hand: Accor raises aid for Australian bushfire relief effort
Accor has raised USD 290,862 through its Accor Bushfire Disaster Relief Appeal, for bushfire affected people and communities across Australia
‘Do something new, New Zealand’ winter campaign of the Kiwis comes calling
Air New Zealand and Tourism New Zealand (TNZ) have teamed up to encourage Kiwis to hit the slopes with its new winter campaign
COVID-19 rekindles rail journey
As people are still wary of flying, the recent pandemic is bringing back travellers’ love for rail journey.
The state of Australia’s tourism sector
Australia’s tourism sector has predominantly high contribution of more than 10% to the Australian economy making the country as the fourth largest contributor in the sector of Asia-Pacific…
Farewell fit for a Queen: Qantas says goodbye to final 747-400 flight
Australia’s national airline has said goodbye to an era of aviation that lasted half a century and encapsulated many major moments in the nation's history. Its final 747-400 plane took…
Masking for a friend, OVOLO’s new norm for COVID-19 travel
Ovolo Hotels becomes the first Australian hotel group to make it compulsory all front-line employees wear masks
A “Shout Out” from New Zealand to the world
While New Zealand borders remain closed, the country has launched a new campaign to keep the country, and its people, in the hearts and minds of friends and family around the globe.
How Airbus aims to deliver Australian industry capability
Airbus Helicopters has joined hands with Australian partners to form Team Nightjar
Air New Zealand runs dedicated repatriation flights to Samoa for fruit industry workers
With New Zealand’s fruit picking season coming to an end, the first of two dedicated Air New Zealand repatriation flights to return recognised seasonal employees home to Samoa has taken…
Two thirds of Thai travellers planning local trips in 2020: Are you ready?
Two out of three Thai travellers have declared their confidence in domestic travel, stating they are in the ‘planning’ phase of their next local trip...
What are “Air Bridges” and is Australia considering them?
Passengers travelling between Australia and some countries that are either Covid-19 free or have transmission rate under control, will no longer have to quarantine. Most people entering…
Its official! Brisbane Airport’s new runway is now open for business
Brisbane Airport’s (BNE) new runway opened with a celebration of Queensland’s rich aviation history. Virgin Australia, BNE’s home carrier, had the honour of the first historic departure,…
Goodbye Queen of the Skies! Qantas bids farewell to Boeing 747 after 50 years
Qantas has organised three special flights so that customers and employees can personally bid farewell to the much loved ‘Queen of the Skies’ ahead of its retirement from the national…
Australia, New Zealand top over 50s’ bucket list
Despite the high risk of the new strain of coronavirus to the elderly, over 50s are still keen to travel once the restrictions and quarantine rules are lifted.
Brisbane airport’s home carrier Virgin Australia to launch first flight in new runway
Virgin Australia will be the first airline to depart on Brisbane’s new runway when it officially opens on 12 July 2020. After eight years of construction and five decades of planning,…
CINZ and PCMA to develop business events community
Conventions and Incentives New Zealand (CINZ) and the Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA) have announced a strategic agreement to work together to support and…
Podcast – Cape Range National Park, Exmouth – Western Australia – Australia
North West Cape is a peninsula which juts out into the Indian Ocean just north of the town of Carnarvon.
Air New Zealand jets back to Invercargill
Air New Zealand’s direct A320 jet service between Auckland and Invercargill has resumed today. The airline’s first flight from Auckland to Invercargill will land at 12:40pm, with the…
Postcards with love! Local celebs back Gold Coast tourism push with personal touch
A couple of local celebrities are getting on board with a Gold Coast tourism push, by penning personal postcards to other Aussies. The letters feature messages about what they like most…
“It’s an exclusive group”: Aeronology hooks up with ATPCO
Aussie travel tech firm Aeronology has announced its acceptance into ATPCO’s scheme for startups, emerging companies and tech innovators, the Bridge Labs Program.
Christine Dilger to look at growing demand in Australia and New Zealand
Red Elephant Reps has appointed a new sales director for its global team to cover Australia and New Zealand. Based in Brisbane, Christine Dilger will work closely with the company’s…
Squeaky clean rules with Ovolo’s ‘Obsessive Commitment to Deep Cleaning’ style
As most major hotel brands introduce a wide range of protocols that conform to local, national and international health and safety regulations as well as official COVID19 guidelines,…
HappyEasyGo inks deal with STAAH for travellers getting ready for skies again
India-based online travel agency, HappyEasyGo, has announced a partnership with New Zealand-based hospitality industry’s cloud-based distribution and booking platform, STAAH. The…
MEETINGS 2021 to return to Christchurch
The countdown for MEETINGS 2021 in Ōtautahi Christchurch has begun with the announcement of new dates for New Zealand’s premier business events exhibition run by Conventions and…
COVID-19 testing mandatory for all returned overseas travellers in Victoria
Victoria is set to follow New South Wales in making COVID-19 testing mandatory for all returned overseas travellers. As of today, anyone who refuses to submit to COVID-19 testing will be…
Virgin Australia 2.0 takes off! Bain makes a brave bet on the struggling airline industry
In one of the biggest single bets on the airline industry since it was completely devastated by the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, Bain Capital has agreed to buy collapsed Virgin…
Brisbane’s historical runway launch now on a time capsule
To commemorate the opening of Brisbane’s new runway on 12 July 2020, Brisbane Airport Corporation (BAC) is creating a time capsule so future Queenslanders can look back at the…
12 COVID-free countries to consider for your next holiday
What started as a mysterious virus in Wuhan, China has become a global pandemic in a matter of months that affected at least 188 nations. However, there are a few COVID-free countries that…
Queensland to charge international arrivals for mandatory hotel quarantine from 1 July
The first Australian state to charge overseas arrivals after national cabinet signed off on the plan last month, Queensland is set to begin charging overseas arrivals quarantined in…
Open access to Cruise Champion training from CLIA
Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) is offering open access to its new online training course Cruise Champion, making it available to travel agents and other industry…
Virus-free Solomon Islands pushes for ‘Pacific bubble’ inclusion
Tourism Solomon's CEO, Josefa ‘Jo’ Tuamoto has called on the Australian and New Zealand governments to ask for their active consideration in allowing the COVID-19 free Solomon Islands to…
Podcast – Overview: Coral Coast, Western Australia
long stretch of coastline measuring about 1,100kms north of Perth, the Coral Coast extends from the town of Cervantes as far north as Exmouth and slightly inland.
Podcast – Overview: Western Australia
if you wish to drive from Eucla in the south east corner of Western Australia around the coast to Kununurra in the north east, in the Kimberley region, you would have to drive a distance of…
Podcast: Papua New Guinea Undiscovered
It is hard not to be mystified by Papua New Guinea. It is a land that is untamed and wild in beauty, while diverse in unique culture.
New Zealand promotes domestic tourism and makes the world green with envy
After crushing the coronavirus with restrictions and protocols brought about by great leadership, New Zealand moved on to recovery.
New Zealand MICE gets a boost
The New Zealand business events and meetings industry has been given some good news today with the announcement that the sector has had with confirmation large events with separate groups of…
The recovery and growth track: Brisbane’s new runway reaches completion
Brisbane Airport Corporation (BAC) and Skyway, a joint venture between BMD Constructions and CPB Contractors (a member of the CIMIC Group), are today celebrating the practical completion…
South Australia Tourism Introduces #SATV!
From professional star-gazers, to gin distillers, world-class chefs and shark cage divers, you can virtually travel all the way through South Australia! And if you’re still feeling a little…
New Zealand confirms business events of up to 100 can go ahead
After the easing of restrictions on social gatherings and travel this week, the New Zealand government has confirmed ticketed large events, including domestic business events and…
10 most popular Zoom backgrounds reveal people’s dream destinations
Since people went into quarantine, video calls have become our way to communicate with our families, friends, and colleagues.
Industry stalwart Matthew Cameron-Smith becomes CEO for AAT Kings Group
The Travel Corporation (TTC) has announced the promotion of industry figurehead, Matthew Cameron-Smith, as CEO of the AAT Kings Group Company. With over 100 years’ experience, the…
“The distribution market will never be the same,” Aeronology CEO on long term development contract with TravelSky
Aeronology, a new travel technology based in Melbourne, has announced a global API/GDS distribution relationship with TravelSky, China’s largest airline GDS.
5 Regions winning the battle against COVID-19 and here’s what they’re doing
some other countries appear to have managed to slow down the rate of new cases and now seem to be on a slow and possibly difficult path towards recovery. Here they are:
Air New Zealand revises international network
Air New Zealand will not resume operation of its suspended Auckland-Buenos Aires and Los Angeles-London routes due to the deep impact of COVID-19 on forward travel demand. The airline…
Vacaay names former V&T boss Anthony Gallagher as general manager
Newly-launched travel tech platform Vacaay has named Anthony Gallagher, previous owner of Australia’s Vacations and Travel Magazine (V&T), as the company’s general manager.
10 most Instagrammed ecotourism destinations
This year marks the 50th year of Earth Day celebrations that shows our relentless effort to make changes in saving the environment.
Australia to experience increase in domestic tourism
Australia’s Minister for Trade’s warning that borders may stay closed until 2021 is expected to boost domestic tourism in the short term, according to data company GlobalData.
Virgin Australia set to go into voluntary administration after failing to secure government lifeline
Virgin Australia has reportedly filed for voluntary administration, overwhelmed by massive debt brought on by the coronavirus lockdowns. An airline spokesman wouldn’t comment today…
FCM strengthens financial position with capital infusion
FCM Travel Solutions’ parent company Flight Centre Travel Group (FCTG) has announced initiatives to strengthen its balance sheet and liquidity position.
It involves securing AUD 900…
Air New Zealand sends vital expertise to Wellington Water project
An Air New Zealand charter flight on the return leg of a roundtrip from Frankfurt to Auckland via Vancouver is now transporting five specialist engineers to New Zealand, where they will…
10 movies to satisfy your thirst for travel during home quarantine
Here are 10 movies you can binge on during quarantine that will tour you around the world on your couch.
Air New Zealand: “Domestic travel is still an option”
Air New Zealand is adjusting its domestic network with New Zealand now at Alert Level four.
The airline will operate a limited domestic schedule from 3 April to enable essential travel only…
Wonder.Full. Experience: Social distancing in comfort and style
Ovolo Hotels chose to turn lemons into lemonade and see this whole health crisis as an opportunity to innovate their latest offering – Wonder.Full.
100K in first 30 days: Vacaay thriving despite coronavirus outbreak
Despite the uncertainty clouding the industry, consumers have flocked to Vacaay's fun and innovative travel discovery platform to plan their holidays in advance.
AFTA approves measures to support agents
The Australian Federation of Travel Agents (AFTA) is implementing a number of measures to support ATAS accredited travel agents and the wider sector.
It includes measures such as…
MSC Cruises says no suspected COVID-19 patients steaming for Fremantle
The operator of the cruise ship Magnifica, which will soon arrive in Fremantle, has denied claims by Premier Mark McGowan that passengers possibly infected with COVID-19 are on board. In…
Associations Round Table at AIME 2020 reimagines model through creativity
Asia Pacific Incentives and Meetings Event (AIME) – the leading meetings and incentives event in the region – has revealed insights off the back of an industry-first Associations Round…
AFTA: “The Government must do more to provide immediate relief to struggling businesses”
Due to the devastating impact of the coronavirus on the Australian travel industry, the Australian Federation of Travel Agents (AFTA) has called on lawmakers to act swiftly and put into…
“It’s important we take action now”: ANZ shuts London cabin crew base
As the impact of the coronavirus outbreak continues, the travel industry has taken a fierce broadside that has caused many businesses to introduce measures that will enable them to stay…
Positive development: Australian researchers claim to find possible ‘cure’ for Coronavirus
In a positive development towards finding a solution to the coronavirus pandemic that shook the world and crippled the global economy and the travel and tourism industry, a team of…
More countries go into lockdown due to COVID-19
After the World Health Organisation announced COVID-19 as a pandemic and cases rise to an unstoppable rate, more countries go into lockdown.
Plaza Premium Lounge expands in Australia with new addition at Sydney airport
Plaza Premium Lounge has rolled out its newest space offering at Sydney Airport’s International Terminal. It is the brand’s third addition in Australia joining locations in Melbourne and…
Events and exhibition industry calls for government to dispel fears about public events
The Exhibition and Event Association of Australasia (EEAA) says there is no reason to cancel or postpone events such as exhibitions, conferences and other business meetings and the…
Coronavirus: Qantas announces leadership pay cuts and network capacity reduction
Qantas Group has announced that CEO, Alan Joyce, will take "no salary" for the remainder of 2020, along with a range of sizeable cuts to its international services (reducing capacity by…
Travelport’s hattrick heroes
UK based travel tech firm Travelport has announced three new deals with airlines in the Asia Pacific region.
The hattrick of multiyear agreements with Fly Corporate (Australia), Fly…
Setting a new benchmark: Experience the Wonder. Full. with Ovolo
With a new brand identity that promises guests a stay filled with unique surprises and unforgettable experiences, Ovolo Hotels is transforming the hospitality business. In a freewheeling…
Air New Zealand reduces Samoa services
Air New Zealand is reducing its Auckland-Apia services from six to three per week, effective from today in response to a directive issued to all airlines by the Samoan government.
In…
AIME bucks industry challenges
Asia Pacific Incentives and Meetings Event (AIME), held in Melbourne from 17–19 February, has successfully delivered an invigorating industry event, with over 2,500 visitors and 300…
Qantas puts mullets and moustaches upfront, stage centre for new safety vid
Qantas unveiled a cracking new safety video this week featuring a roll call of icons of yesteryear, from 80s mullets and 70s moustaches right through to 1940s flying boats and 1920s…
Air New Zealand to put economy travellers to sleep
Air New Zealand has unveiled a ground-breaking new lie-flat prototype sleep product for economy class travellers. The Economy Skynest is the result of three years of the airline's…
Nordic Inspiration: Mantra Chatswood Sydney gets multi-million dollar makeover
Mantra Chatswood Sydney has received a multi-million dollar refurbishment, which has transformed the hotel into a contemporary urban oasis with scores of sophistication. Simple yet…
“We will effectively navigate our way through this”: ANZ CEO confident in face of coronavirus
Air New Zealand (ANZ) has published today an update on the airline's forecast of the effect of coronavirus on earnings for the current financial year, with chief executive, Greg Foran,…
Royal Caribbean deploys two ships for humanitarian efforts
Royal Caribbean Cruises has announced it will dedicate two ships to humanitarian efforts in Australia and California to support some of the people affected by recent crises. Richard…
Why Four Seasons Hotel is the most luxurious hotel in Sydney
Here are some reasons why Four Seasons top other 5-star hotels in the area.
Sapphire Princess to call Australia home for year-long deployment
Princess Cruises has announced plans to add 44 new cruises from five major Australian cities with the redeployment of Sapphire Princess Down Under. The award-winning guest ship will…
Tourism Australia’s business events enhances presence at AIME 2020
Tourism Australia’s dedicated business events unit, Business Events Australia has chosen to enhance its presence at AIME 2020 following the challenging start to the year, with the double…
DiDi to launch services in Sydney in March
Ride-hailing company Didi Chuxing (“DiDi”) has announced that it will launch its ridesharing services in Sydney, New South Wales, on 16 March.
STAAH launches e-book on revenue management collated by industry leaders
Leading cloud-based hospitality technology solution provider, STAAH, has launched its e-book on revenue management for the hospitality industry. The e-book aims to make the technical and…
Gaining ground in Asia: Connexus Travel signs deal with Aeronology to boost growth
Hong Kong-based Connexus Travel (formally known as Swire Travel), one of the largest corporate travel businesses in Greater China, has signed a long-term technology sharing agreement…
Discover Asia’s top 12 hotel income creators
SiteMinder has unveiled its annual lists of the distribution channels that brought the highest booking revenue to hotels over the past year. Varying across 20 of the world’s top tourism…
Centrepiece comes to life at AIME 2020
Melbourne & Olympic Parks (M&OP) – home to some of Australia’s top sporting and entertainment events – has announced it will showcase its highly anticipated new convention…
Final countdown begins for AIME 2020
Asia Pacific Incentives and Meetings Event (AIME) – the leading meetings and incentives event in the region – will open its doors next week to showcase a bigger event in 2020 than seen…
