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Hawaiian Airlines Boeing 787

2. The St Regis Chicago is now open

Located in the idyllic Lakeshore East neighborhood, The St. Regis Chicago offers easy access to the Chicago River and is a short walk from the city’s leading luxury retailers, dining destinations, and notable cultural landmarks such as Millennium Park, the Art Institute of Chicago, and the famed Magnificent Mile. Making its own mark on the city’s cultural landscape, The St. Regis Chicago is housed in a 101-story tower, the tallest building in the world designed by a female architect. The skyscraper features a unique and distinctive design composed of an interconnected series of stacked, frustum-shapes that move rhythmically in and out of plane and extend to various heights. Throughout the hotel’s public areas, metallic materials and colors, such as copper and rust, are interwoven with geometric, angular lines, offering a nod to The Great Chicago Fire and the city’s geographic interconnectivity of waterways, buildings, and green spaces. The property features 159 luxurious guestrooms and 33 exquisite suites across 11 floors, as well as several high-end dining outlets, spa, gym, meetings rooms and a palatial, heated indoor pool.

st regis chicago

st regis chicago

3. Rosewood announces a luxury hotel in Seoul, South Korea

Situated beside Yongsan Park in the heart of the city, Rosewood Seoul will exist within The Parkside Seoul, a development occupying the former site of the United Nations Command. The mixed-use neighborhood will also include high-end retail and residences connected by expansive outdoor spaces, creating a new environment for activity and human interaction. Inspired by Seoul’s famed architecture, known for its futuristic lines and eye-catching facades, the new hotel will blend seamlessly into the sleek and contemporary skyline of the city. Designed by renowned interior design firm Space Copenhagen, Rosewood Seoul will feature approximately 250 rooms and suites, amongst the largest in the city. An urban resort in its own right, the property will boast a selection of amenities, including seven restaurants and bars and comprehensive wellness facilities. Curated to welcome both guests and locals, these offerings will also transform the hospitality landscape for residents. Rosewood Seoul – set to open in 2027 – will also be home to an Asaya, Rosewood’s comprehensive wellness concept focused on the intersections between physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

ROSEWOOD SEOUL

intercontinental chantilly chateau mont royal

ROSEWOOD SEOUL

4. Air New Zealand will debut its Skynest sleep pods in September 2024

Air New Zealand‘s innovative Economy Skynest will be launching on ultra-long haul flights in September 2024, starting with the popular Auckland – New York and Auckland – Chicago routes. The announcement was made at TRENZ – New Zealand’s largest international tourism business event – where a real-life Skynest experience was available for the first time. The Skynest will be a six-pod configured sleep zone that offers sessions for Economy Class passengers to lie down when travelling long haul. Each pod will include a full-size pillow, sheets and blanket, ear plugs, a separate reading light, personal device USB outlet, ventilation outlet, and lighting designed for rest. Each passenger will be limited to one session, with families travelling on the same ticket able to book a session for each passenger, pending availability. The Skynest will be located between Premium Economy and Economy, and the bedding will be changed between each session (a 30-minute transition time will be allowed for this). The lights will gently come on at the end of each session, and crew will politely wake any passengers who sleep through this. The price will be around $400 to $600 USD for a 4-hour period.

5. InterContinental will open a château hotel near Paris, France

IHG Hotels & Resorts has announced the signing of InterContinental Chantilly – Château Mont Royal – the latest château property within its growing luxury & lifestyle portfolio in France. The historic 107-key château will join the likes of InterContinental Paris Le Grand and InterContinental Lyon – Hotel Dieu – alongside three other InterContinental properties in Paris, Bordeaux and Marselle – as a flagship hotel for the brand in the country when it welcomes guests – following renovation – in 2024. Built in the early 20th century and showcasing Louis XVI style architecture, InterContinental Chantilly – Château Mont Royal will feature two restaurants, a bar and a summer terrace where guests may enjoy long, light nights and scenic views, as well as 11 meeting rooms, a gym, sauna, jacuzzi and treatment rooms alongside an indoor swimming pool and tennis court. Situated just 30 min from the French capital and 20 minutes from Charles de Gaulle Airport, the hotel’s location makes it the ideal destination for leisure guests or corporate groups seeking to combine city sightseeing with the many historic and picturesque sights of Chantilly and its surroundings.

saudi arabia new business class

intercontinental chantilly chateau mont royal

6. Qatar Airways resumes its longest flight (Doha to Auckland)

Qatar Airways is re-introducing a direct Doha to Auckland flight, which commences on 1 September 2023 and will operate seven times a week/departing daily at 01:50 local time. The flight will be one of the world’s longest at 15hrs 55 minutes on the outbound and 17hrs 15 minutes on the inbound. Qatar Airways will be operating an Airbus A350-1000 on the route with 46 Business Class and 281 Economy Class seats. A key feature of the service is the Qsuite, which is available to Business Class passengers. Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker, said: “The direct Doha to Auckland service augments a number of new routes announced in recent weeks and enables passengers in key European markets including the UK and Ireland to save time with this direct connection. Business Class passengers on board our Auckland flights can also enjoy the enhanced privacy of Qsuite, which has been awarded the Best Business Class Seat in the World.”Until the resumption of direct flights to Auckland, Qatar Airways will continue to operate its Auckland service via Adelaide with Boeing 777 aircraft.

7. All Emirates passengers can now avail of free Wi-Fi connectivity onboard

A recent enhancement to Emirates’ inflight connectivity means that all Emirates passengers in every class of travel can enjoy free app messaging once they sign up to Emirates Skywards. Additionally, First Class passengers will have unlimited free internet if they are Skywards members, enabling them to shop or work online while inflight, as will Silver, Gold and Platinum Skywards members traveling in Business Class. Platinum Skywards members have complimentary internet access in all classes.Emirates also announced that it will offer new high-speed, inflight broadband powered by Inmarsat’s GX Aviation, onboard 50 new Airbus A350 aircraft – scheduled to enter service in 2024. The new agreement will significantly improve the passenger experience with enhanced connectivity and greater global coverage, even on flights over the Arctic. The Airbus A350s will be the first Emirates aircraft to take advantage of Inmarsat’s Global Xpress (GX) satellite network, which powers the world’s first and only globally available broadband network, ensuring passengers can enjoy uninterrupted global connectivity, no matter their destination, including the North Pole.

8. Saudi Arabian Airlines launches a new Business Class seat

Saudi Arabian Airlines (SAUDIA) has unveiled its latest state-of-the-art business seat, which will be fitted on the airline’s new Airbus A321 XLR aircraft. The VantageSOLO suite provides significantly more privacy than previous business class seats, with a privacy shield around the back and an additional door at the aisle. The spacious seats can be reclined fully into bed mode, whilst the suite also features an 18” screen for enhanced viewing, and increased storage space. SAUDIA CEO, Captain Ibrahim Koshy, said: “At SAUDIA we are deeply committed to finding new and innovative ways to further enhance our renowned guest experience. We firmly believe that the VantageSOLO suite represents the epitome of comfort, privacy and luxury. Our new business class offering is the embodiment of SAUDIA’s dedication to constantly evolving its products and services to deliver a superior customer journey underpinned by the very latest technological developments.” The new Airbus A321 XLR aircraft will cover destinations across Europe, the Indian subcontinent and Africa including Milan, Barcelona, Brussels, Rome, the Maldives, and Dakar.

saudi arabia new business class

9. South African Airways will resume longhaul flights

South African Airways announced that it has been given the green light for a significant expansion of its fleet. This paves the way for South Africa’s national carrier to relaunch international routes and increase seat capacity for its regional and domestic destinations. Interim CEO, Professor John Lamola, says the airline’s plan to lease six new aircraft has been approved by the Minister of Finance and the Minister of Public Enterprises. “The aircraft will be delivered before the end of this calendar year, and the planes include a wide-body aircraft as well as five narrow-body aircraft – all of them Airbus equipment,” Lamola said. “We are excited, as SAA, to lay the groundwork for the relaunch of our first international route since coming out of business rescue and since the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic. We will announce the new route in the coming few weeks, and we will open commercial marketing and sales for it.” Lamola says the terms and conditions attached to the deals for the new aircraft are along the same competitive, transparent, and cost-effective lines that have characterised the ‘new’ SAA since it emerged from Business Rescue in September 2021.

10. Six Senses announces its first resort in Greece

Six Senses‘ first Greek resort will be located on a southerly white-sand cove on Megalonisos, one of the 10 Petalioi islands and islets with some of the finest undiscovered beaches in the “Greek Maldives”. Six Senses Megalonisos will be a short boat ride from the port of Rafina, just across the mainland from Athens, or Marmari on Evia’s West coast. Whereas the island of Evia or Euboea was said to have been separated from mainland Greece by a strike from Poseidon’s trident, the childhood home of Goddess Hera, and the battleground for the Titans versus the Giants, the tranquil and secluded Megalonisos has been left by history and mythology to snooze in the sun. There will be 75 guest villas and 20 branded residences for sale, all unobtrusively blending into the contours of the bay. The three restaurants will include all-day dining, a beach bar and grill, and a specialty sunset bar. There will also be a pastry café, perfect for a coffee after a morning dip or sun salutation, along with a boutique. A Six Senses Spa will offer multiple treatment rooms, including four double sensory suites, a Watsu for a range of hydro therapies, and a Hammam for a warm herbal steam and body scrub.

six senses greece

six senses greece

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The post Travel news: this month (May 2023) in luxury travel appeared first on the Luxury Travel Expert.

Top 10 safest airlines in the world for 2023

The Luxury Travel Expert — Mon, 16 Jan 2023 14:12:45 +0000

Monday newsletters always feature top 10 travel lists to inspire.

Today: Top 10 safest airlines in the world for 2023

Commercial aviation is regarded as one of the safest forms of travel. Airline accidents have been on a consistent global decline since more than 30 years, thanks to strict regulations and rigorous standards in the aviation industry. That said, some airlines are still better performing than others when it comes to safety standards, and that’s why the Australia-based aviation analysis website AirlineRatings.com produces each year a list of safest airlines in the world after monitoring more than 400 airlines. In making its evaluation of the safest airlines in the world, AirlineRatings.com takes into account a comprehensive range of factors that include: (1) crashes over five years; (2) serious incidents over two years; (3) audits from aviation’s governing bodies and lead associations; (4) fleet age; (5) expert analysis of pilot training; and (6) COVID protocols. Here are the 10 carriers considered to be the safest airlines in 2023 by the AirlineRatings.com website.

There is more information (with trip reports & YouTube videos) below the slideshow. Do you agree with the list? Leave a comment.

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10. VIRGIN ATLANTIC

Virgin Atlantic was founded by entrepreneur Sir Richard Branson 38 years ago with innovation and customer service at its core. Today Virgin Atlantic carries 5.5 million customers annually, employs over 9000 people worldwide and operates a fleet of 39 aircraft serving 26 destinations across four continents from its bases at London’s Heathrow, London’s Gatwick, and Manchester airport. Alongside joint venture partner Delta Air Lines they operate the leading transatlantic network – offering up to 39 flights per day between the UK and US with onward connections to over 200 US and international cities. The Virgin-branded airline has not incurred a major accident since its launch in 1984.

Official website: Virgin Atlantic
Review: read here my review of Virgin Atlantic’s Business Class in an Airbus A350.

9. EVA AIR

Eva Air is the second largest Taiwanese airline (after China Airlines) and based at Taoyuan International Airport near Taipei, Taiwan. The privately owned carrier is a 5-star airline, rated by Skytrax, and flies to over 40 international destinations spread across 4 continents. Best known for its Hello Kitty-themed planes, Eva Air has always been regarded as one of the best and safest airlines in Asia. The carrier has not suffered any hull losses, accidents, or fatalities since its founding in 1988. The carrier currently operates a mixed fleet of Airbus and Boeing aircraft, with A330, A321, B777 and B787 planes mainly used on passenger routes along with B747 and B777 freighter aircraft flown on cargo routes.

Official website: EVA Air
Review: read here my review of Eva Air’s Business Class in a Boeing 777.

8. ALASKA AIRLINES

Since its acquisition of Virgin America in 2016, Alaska Airline is the 5th largest airline of the USA. The carrier operates a large route network, primarily focused on connecting from the state of Alaska and the USA West Coast to over one hundred destinations in the USA, Hawaii, Canada, Costa Rica, and Mexico. There are more than 45 million passengers that fly with the airline annually. Founded in 1932, the Seattle, Washington-based carrier has earned top marks over the years for its familial ambiance, friendly and relaxed service, on-time performance, excellent loyalty program, great amenities, and safety culture (the airline has not suffered a fatal crash since 2000).

Official website: Alaska Airlines

10. ALASKA AIRLINES

7. EMIRATES

Established in 1985, Emirates is the national carrier of the emirate of Dubai in the United Arab Emirates. Emirates is among the largest and fastest-growing carriers worldwide, and one of the few airlines to operate an all-wide-body aircraft fleet. It is also the largest Airbus A380 and Boeing 777 operator on the planet. Operating from its hub at Dubai International Airport, Emirates provides an extensive network of services within the Middle East as well as to Africa, Asia, the South Pacific, North America, Europe and South America. The airline also has an impressive safety record, with only one hull-loss accident in its 35-year history.

Official website: Emirates
Review: read here my review of Emirates’ First Class in an Airbus A380
Review: read here my review of Emirates’ (new) First Class in a Boeing 777
Review: read here my review of Emirates’ (old) First Class in a Boeing 777
Review: read here my review of Emirates’ Business Class in an Airbus A380
Review: read here my review of Emirates’ (new) Business Class in a Boeing 777
Review: read here my review of Emirates’ (old) Business Class in a Boeing 777

6. TAP AIR PORTUGAL

TAP Air Portugal is the state-owned flag carrier airline of Portugal, headquartered at Lisbon Airport which also serves as its hub. TAP has been a member of Star Alliance since 2005 and operates on average 2,500 flights a week to 90 destinations in 34 countries worldwide. The company has a fleet of 100 airplanes, all of which manufactured by Airbus with the exception of a dozen Embraer and ATR aircraft, operating on behalf of the regional airline TAP Express. TAP Air Portugal has an excellent safety record and this is not surprising as it has kept its fleet young and was one of the first airlines to adopt large advances in security. The carrier has not suffered a fatality in the modern era.

Official website: TAP Air Portugal

TAP AIR PORTUGAL

6. TAP AIR PORTUGAL

5. SINGAPORE AIRLINES

When Singapore Airlines was established in 1972, its prospects appeared to mirror those of Singapore itself: to remain a small, regional player with little global influence. But Singapore’s flagship airline has improbably risen to become an instantly recognizable aviation powerhouse with Changi Airport as its hub, and has won more awards than any other airline. Singapore Airlines was the launch customer for the Airbus A380 – the world’s largest passenger aircraft – as well as the Boeing 787-10 and the ultralong range version of the Airbus A350-900. Singapore Airlines is universally lauded for its high-quality service and efficient operations, and also enjoys a reputation as one of the world’s safest airlines since it has been accident-free since 2000.

Official website: Singapore Airlines
Review: read here my review of Singapore Airlines’ new First Class in an Airbus A380.
Review: read here my review of Singapore Airlines’ Business Class in an Airbus A350.
Review: read here my review of Singapore Airlines’ Business Class in an Airbus A380.
Review: read here my review of Singapore Airlines’ Business Class in an Airbus A330.
Review: read here my review of Singapore Airlines’ Business Class in a Boeing 787 Dreamliner.

4. QATAR AIRWAYS

Since its launch in 1997, Qatar Airways has earned many accolades, becoming one of an elite group of airlines worldwide to have earned a 5-star rating by Skytrax. Qatar’s flagship carrier serves 150 international destinations across Africa, Central Asia, Europe, Far East, South Asia, Middle East, North America, South America and Oceania from its base at Hamad International Airport near Qatar’s capital Doha, using fleet of more than 180 Boeing and Airbus aircraft. As an industry leader in aviation safety, the airline has demonstrated a strong safety and security performance record. Back in 2003, it was the first airline to complete the IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) audit with 100 per cent compliance.

Official website: Qatar Airways
Review: read here my review of Qatar Airways’s First Class in an Airbus A380.
Review: read here my review of Qatar Airways’ QSuite Business Class in an Airbus A350.
Review: read here my review of Qatar Airways’ Business Class in a Dreamliner.
Review: read here my review of Qatar Airways’ Business Class in a Boeing 777.
Review: read here my review of Qatar Airways’ Business Class in an A330.

3. ETIHAD AIRWAYS

Etihad Airways is the flag carrier and the second largest airline of the United Arab Emirates (after Emirates). Etihad, which started commercial operations in 2003, uses Abu Dhabi International Airport as its hub. The airline operates more than 1000 flights per week to over 120 passenger and cargo destinations in the Middle East, Africa, Europe, Asia, Australia, and the Americas, with a fleet of more than 120 Airbus and Boeing aircraft. Etihad is also one of the ‘greenest’ airlines: the carrier announced a commitment to a minimum target of zero net carbon emissions by 2050. Etihad Airways has maintained a perfect safety record in its 17 years of flying passengers across the globe.

Official website: Etihad Airways
Review: read here my review of Etihad Airways’ First Class in an Airbus A380.
Review: read here my review of Etihad Airways’ Business Class in a Boeing 787.
Review: read here my review of Etihad Airways’ Business Class in a Boeing 777.
Review: read here my review of Etihad Airways’ Business Class in an Airbus A330.

2. AIR NEW ZEALAND

Founded in 1940, Air New Zealand provides passenger and cargo services to, from and within New Zealand to approximately 17 million passengers a year. Based in Auckland, the airline operates a global network with 20 domestic and 32 international destinations in 20 countries, primarily around and within the Pacific Rim (Australasia and the South Pacific). Widely known for its safety culture, the airline has been a member of Star Alliance – the world’s largest global airline alliance – since 1999. Air New Zealand currently operates a fleet of Airbus A320, Airbus A320neo, Boeing 777, and Boeing 787 aircraft, as well as a regional fleet of ATR 72 and Bombardier Q300 turboprop aircraft.

Official website: Air New Zealand

1. AIR NEW ZEALAND

1. QANTAS

Founded in the Queensland outback in 1920, Qantas is the world’s 3rd oldest airline (behind KLM and Avianca) and has grown to be Australia’s largest airline. Over its 97-year history Qantas has amassed an amazing record of firsts in safety and operations and is widely regarded as the world’s safest airline since it hasn’t suffered any accidents in the modern jet era. Qantas’ reputation for safety gained instant world-wide fame in 1988 because of the movie Rain Man, when Dustin Hoffman’s character claimed that ‘Qantas never crashes’. Australia’s flagship carrier is based in Sydney and flies to 80 destinations in more than 20 countries, using a fleet of modern Airbus and Boeing aircraft.

Official website: Qantas
Review: read here my review of Qantas’ First Class in an Airbus A380.

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The post Top 10 safest airlines in the world for 2023 appeared first on the Luxury Travel Expert.

Top 10 most scenic flights in the world

The Luxury Travel Expert — Mon, 25 Apr 2022 13:00:58 +0000

Monday newsletters always feature top 10 travel lists to inspire.

Today: Top 10 most beautiful flights in the world

There’s no denying that our planet looks amazing from above. Observing majestic mountain peaks, thundering waterfalls, gorgeous islands, and deep canyons from a bird’s-eye perspective makes you appreciate even more the vast and often remote wilderness areas left on our beautiful world. So be sure to request a window seat on one of the following 10 scenic flights, which I consider to be the most spectacular journeys on the planet.

There is more information (with YouTube videos) below the slide show. Think I missed one? Share your favorite scenic flight in the comments section.

FLIGHT OVER THE OKAVANGO DELTA IN BOTSWANA

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10. FLIGHT TO THE SOUTHERN AURORA WITH AIR NEW ZEALAND

In April 2017, the first ever commercial flight to view the Southern Lights took off from Dunedin on New Zealand’s South Island. The Boeing 767 – operated by Air New Zealand – had more than 130 photographers and aurora enthusiasts on board and traveled south to the Antarctic circle to see the natural lights phenomenon up close. The eight-hour flight crossed the international dateline twice, with the plane flying in large circles so that passengers on both sides could get a good view of the spectacular lights. The special Aurora Australis mission was the bold idea of Otago Museum director Dr Ian Griffin, but caught the imagination of aurora photographers with the flight selling out in less than a week, with some passengers even flying in from Australia, South Africa and Spain. Several flights are planned for 2022 and 2023 (operated by a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner) and can be booked here.

9. FLIGHT OVER THE OKAVANGO DELTA IN BOTSWANA

The Okavango Delta in Botswana is one of the most pristine wilderness areas in the world. The largest inland delta in the world offers access to the spectacle of wild Africa with the heart-stopping excitement of big game viewing, the supreme tranquility and serenity of an untouched delta, and evocative scenes of extraordinary natural beauty. A scenic flight over the delta gives you a bird’s-eye perspective of the golden-grassed floodplains, framed by lush palm islands, that are inhabited by a staggering variety of wildlife. You can keep a look out for hippos in the waterways and elephant and buffalo in the shade of the trees. You also observe how the water channels meander their way through the delta in ever-changing paths as this dynamic water system evolves. Transport within the Okavango Delta is primarily by light aircraft – mostly single engine airplanes – although helicopter services are also available.

Other accolades: the Okavango Delta also features in my top 10 lists of the most spectacular ways to arrive at a hotel, the most stunning safari lodges in Africa, the most luxurious glamping sites in the world, and the most epic trips of a lifetime.

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9. FLIGHT OVER THE OKAVANGO DELTA IN BOTSWANA

8. SCENIC FLIGHT OVER AUSTRALIA’S GREAT BARRIER REEF

The Great Barrier Reef is one of the world’s great natural wonders. It is the largest reef in the world and consists of nearly 3000 individual reefs, 880 islands and hundreds and thousands of different types of plant, bird and marine life. Swimming with the fish and admiring the colors of the coral is a must for any holiday to the Great Barrier Reef. But to get a complete grasp of the sheer magnitude of the Great Barrier Reef, you need to stop swimming with the diverse marine creatures, get out of the water, let your feet leave the pure-white beaches, take to the sky, and see the reef from the air. On sightseeing flights to and from the reef, you will experience some breathtaking views over the Whitsunday Islands, and over the coral reef formations that make this part of the world so unique.

Other accolades: the Great Barrier Reef also features in my top 10 list of the most epic trips of a lifetime.

SCENIC FLIGHT OVER AUSTRALIA_S GREAT BARRIER REEF

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8. SCENIC FLIGHT OVER AUSTRALIA’S GREAT BARRIER REEF

7. FLYING IN A HELICOPTER OVER THE GRAND CANYON, USA

A powerful and inspiring landscape, Grand Canyon National Park is one of the USA’s most popular tourist destinations. Unique combinations of geologic color and erosional forms carved by the Colorado River decorate a canyon that is 277 river miles (446km) long, up to 18 miles (29km) wide, and a mile (1.6km) deep. The Grand Canyon reveals nature’s sheer force with its towering buttes, pinnacles and mesas, and its immense size leaves many visitors weak in the knees. One of the most exciting ways to see the Grand Canyon is on a helicopter tour, with departure from either Las Vegas or near the entrance of the Grand Canyon National Park. Flying above and beneath the rim of the Grand Canyon will offer views you can’t see from any viewpoint on the ground.

Other accolades: the Grand Canyon also features in my top 10 lists of the most beautiful national parks in the USA, the world’s most iconic sunrise & sunset spots, the most spectacular waterfalls in the world, the most magnificent scenery in the world, and the most epic trips of a lifetime.

6. A FLIGHT OVER THE WORLD’S HIGHEST WATERFALL IN VENEZUELA

Angel Falls is located in the Canaima National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, in Venezuela. It is the world’s highest waterfall, and it spills from the Auyantepui into what is known as the Devil’s canyon 979 m (3211 ft) below. The indigenous people call it Kerepakupai-mer but is was named Angel Falls after Jimmy Angel, an American bush pilot and gold-hunting adventurer, who discovered it in 1937. The height of the falls is so great that before getting anywhere near the ground, the water is atomized by the strong winds and turned into mist. The falls are estimated to be 15 times as high as America’s Niagara Falls. A scenic flight above Angel’s Fall in a light aircraft will give you a birds-eye view of the falls and bring your thoughts as if you were in “The Lost World” of British author Arthur Conan Doyle (1912).

Other accolades: Angel Falls also feature in my top 10 lists of the most amazing places to visit in South America and the most spectacular waterfalls in the world.

5. LANDING OR TAKING OFF AT BHUTAN’S PARO AIRPORT

Travelers visiting the kingdom of Buthan have no other option but to fly to Paro Airport, the sole international airport of the four airports in the Kingdom of Bhutan. Located 2,4 km (1.5 mi) above sea level and with surrounding peaks as high as 5,500 m (18,000 ft), it is considered one of the world’s most dangerous airports. So treacherous is the landing, that only a select number of pilots (from Bhutan Airlines, Buddha Air, and Drukair) are certified to land at the airport. Flights to and from Paro are allowed under visual meteorological conditions only and are restricted to daylight hours from sunrise to sunset. Planes have to weave through the dozens of houses that are scattered across the mountainside – coming within feet of clipping the roofs. But if you are not too nervous about the perilous conditions, you will be rewarded with breathtaking views over the clear blue waters over the Paro river, the lush green foliage of Bhutan’s landscape, and the majestic peaks of the Himalayas (including Mount Everest).

Review: read my review of my flight with Bhutan Airlines here.

4. FLYING OVER SANTORINI, GREECE

The Greek island of Santorini is arguably one of the world’s most idyllic islands and ranks among my favorite destinations on earth. Perched high above the deep blue Aegean Sea, Santorini’s whitewashed villages are clustered atop dramatic cliffs, with black sand beaches resting at the bottom. The island was shaped some 3,600 years ago by one of the largest volcanic eruptions in recorded history, which left a giant water-filled crater measuring about 12 by 7 km (7.5 by 4 mi) and surrounded by 300 m (980 ft) high cliffs on all sides. One of the best ways to appreciate the island’s natural splendor is to fly over the world-renowned caldera by helicopter, especially around sunset time. Peak Helicopter Service offers a choice between two helicopter tours, the standard 20 minute or the extended 30 minute tour.

3. DAY TRIP TO ANTARCTICA WITH QANTAS

If you want to fulfill that bucket list dream of exploring the great white Continent without getting your feet wet, then taking a Qantas sightseeing day trip with departure from Australia may be your best bid. No passports are needed and you are kept warm and safe with a glass in hand while the privately chartered Qantas Boeing 787 Dreamliner glides effortlessly over amazing scenery. Approximately three hours south of Australia, passengers will usually see the first scattered ice followed by dozens of icebergs and ice floes. The scenic flight then crosses the South Magnetic Pole with views of the rugged mountainous topography of the Antarctic mainland. With up to four hours over the ice and the remaining hours to enjoy the bespoke service – including premium drinks, delicious meals and talks from Antarctic expeditioners – it’s an experience like no other.

2. SEAPLANE FLIGHT IN THE MALDIVES

For most people, thé iconic image of the Maldives is that of a deep blue ocean interspersed by tiny palm islands surrounded by ridiculously clear lagoons and sugar white beaches. The only way to see that breathtaking view of 50 shades of blue is from the air, and although you will catch a few glimpses of the islands from your plane upon landing or departure at Male airport, the best vantage point for the breathtaking panoramas is offered by the seaplanes that transfer guests to their resorts. Seaplane transfers in the Maldives are operated by either Trans Maldivian Airways or Manta Air. A flight onboard a seaplane in the Maldives and admiring the picture-perfect archipelago from a bird’s eye perspective is one of the ultimate scenic experiences that the destination has to offer.

Other accolades: flying onboard a seaplane in the Maldives also features in my top 10 list of the most fabulous things to see & do in the Maldives.

1. HELICOPTER TOUR OVER THE ISLAND OF KAUAI, HAWAII

Kauai was the first of the major Hawaiian Islands to rise from the ocean floor and it was the first to become extinct some 5 million years ago. Sculpted by nature for millions of years, Kauai’s legendary and sensational natural beauty is epitomized by the Na Pali Coast – 14 miles (22 km) of sea cliffs ascending 3,000 feet (900 m) above untamed shoreline, with sheer-walled valleys and cascading waterfalls—and spectacular Waimea Canyon, the ‘Grand Canyon of the Pacific’. Kauai also boasts the wettest spot on the planet at Mount Wai’ale’ale and the tremendous rainfall has produced the most remarkable sheer valleys, razor sharp ridges descending to the sea and most amazing array of waterfalls to be assembled anywhere in the world. Most of Kauai’s awe-inspiring sights are inaccessible from the ground and can only be seen and appreciated by helicopter.

Other accolades: Kauai also features in my top 10 lists of the most scenic islands in the world most beautiful beaches in the world, the world’s most epic hikes, the most spectacular waterfalls in the world, the most magnificent scenery in the world, and most epic trips of a lifetime.

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Travel news: last month (March 2022) in luxury travel

The Luxury Travel Expert — Fri, 01 Apr 2022 14:07:56 +0000

Friday newsletters always feature travel contests, tips, or news.

Today: March 2022 luxury travel news

Once month, you can read my news round-up of what’s happening in the world of luxury travel and aviation. In this issue:

Air New Zealand is off to the Big Apple
Hilton’s LXR brand will debut in Abu Dhabi on a private island
Four Seasons will open a hotel in Saudi Arabia’s most historic destination
Marriott announces its first luxury safari lodge in Africa
Singapore reopens borders to all fully vaccinated travelers
Finnair to serve Shanghai and Seoul avoiding Russia
Hilton will open a Curio Collection hotel on the Galapagos Islands
Marriott will bring its iconic St Regis brand to London
Qantas launches non-stop Melbourne to Dallas route
Cathay Pacific plans world’s longest nonstop flight

1. Air New Zealand is off to the Big Apple

Air New Zealand has announced its first flight to the Big Apple will be on 17 September this year. Landing at John F. Kennedy Airport, the airline will operate its flagship Auckland-New York route three times a week, year-round with its Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft. The new service further deepens the alliance between Air New Zealand and United Airlines. Air New Zealand Chief Executive Officer Greg Foran says with international flying on hiatus for two years and the New Zealand border reopening on 2 May to visa-waiver countries, this is the moment Kiwis have been waiting for. After a stopover in New York, for passengers wanting to travel further afield, Air New Zealand’s strong partnership with United Airlines can connect them on to domestic destinations across the US, Canada and the United Kingdom. For those wanting to explore more of Europe, thanks to Air New Zealand’s network of partnerships, customers can also fly direct from New York to Frankfurt, Munich, Zurich, Vienna, Brussels, Helsinki, Copenhagen and Stockholm.

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AIR NEW ZEALAND

2. Hilton’s LXR brand will debut in Abu Dhabi on a private island

LXR Hotels & Resorts, Hilton’s collection of independent luxury properties, announced plans for a breathtaking new resort surrounded by lush greenery and stunning landscapes on the private Al Nawras Island in Abu Dhabi. Expected to open in 2023, Al Nawras Island, LXR Hotels & Resorts will mark the brand’s entry into the UAE capital. The all-villa resort will offer 80 expansive and elegantly designed beach and water villas as well as a 450-square-meter, two-bedroom Royal Villa surrounding a state-of-the-art golf course. Among the property’s world-class leisure and recreational facilities will be an upscale gym, fitness studio, and three stunning swimming pools — one indoor and two outdoor, as well as tennis and paddle courts, a private marina, exclusive beach club, and elaborate spa. Additionally, children will have access to an engaging playground, dedicated swimming pool, splash pad and kid’s club. The property will also feature an array of exciting culinary offerings — from two signature restaurants embracing the stunning environment with al fresco dining areas, to two tasteful bars and a wellness-inspired café.

AL NAWRAS ISLAND, LXR HOTEL & RESORT

Four Seasons Hotel Diriyah, Saudi Arabia

AL NAWRAS ISLAND, LXR HOTEL & RESORT

3. Four Seasons will open a hotel in Saudi Arabia’s most historic destination

Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, one of the world’s leading luxury hospitality companies, has announced plans for Four Seasons Hotel Diriyah in Saudi Arabia. A 300-year-old site located just outside of Riyadh, Diriyah is considered to be the birthplace of the Kingdom and the capital of the first Saudi state. The area is home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, At-Turaif, the valley and lush palm groves of Wadi Hanifah, and will soon include the Diriyah development – an acclaimed project that pays homage to the history of Saudi Arabia and a key driver of the Kingdom’s Saudi Vision 2030. Four Seasons Hotel Diriyah, Saudi Arabia will include approximately 150 luxuriously appointed rooms and suites, expansive meeting and event spaces, a wellness spa with seven treatment rooms and a fitness centre, as well as two outdoor pools with private cabanas. The hotel will also offer four culinary outlets, including a poolside restaurant and sunset lounge.

JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge

Four Seasons Hotel Diriyah, Saudi Arabia

4. Marriott will open its first luxury safari lodge in Africa

JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge will be located within the Masai Mara National Reserve, one of Africa’s most renowned wildlife conservation and wilderness regions. Plans for the new-build lodge feature 20 private tents, including one presidential canvas-topped pavilion and two interconnecting canopied suites, ideal for families, each with a private terrace overlooking the river. Shared spaces will include a restaurant, lounge bar, spa, and a large outdoor terrace with fire pits that will play host to traditional Masai dance performances in the evening. The untamed landscape will offer guests the opportunity to observe the “Big Five” that Masai Mara is home to: lions, leopards, buffalos, rhinoceros and elephants. Between June and September, the reserve is also host to the annual great wildebeest migration, when more than 10 million animals travel a distance of 1,800 miles from the Serengeti in neighboring Tanzania. Offering discerning travelers an unparalleled setting, the elegant retreat expects to welcome guests in 2023.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u33D9BhT6NA

JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge

5. Singapore reopens borders to all fully vaccinated travelers

Today, Singapore reopens its borders to all fully vaccinated travelers, removing all existing vaccinated travel lanes and unilateral opening arrangements. The city-state now transitions into a new simplified travel framework – the vaccinated travel framework – where countries and regions will be classified into two categories – general travel or the restricted category.

Under the framework, all fully vaccinated travellers, as well as children aged 12 and below, will be able to enter Singapore with just a pre-departure COVID-19 test. They will also no longer need to apply for entry approvals or take designated VTL transport to enter Singapore quarantine-free. In addition, there will be no more quotas on the number of daily arrivals an no more unsupervised antigen rapid test after arriving in Singapore.
As for visitors aged 13 and above who are not fully vaccinated, they are generally not allowed to enter Singapore, with a few exceptions. This includes long-term pass-holders who are medically ineligible for vaccines as well as those who have valid entry approval such as compassionate reasons. For this group, it will be required to take a pre-departure test within two days before departure for Singapore, undergo a seven-day stay-home notice, and take a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test after their isolation period.

6. Finnair will serve Shanghai and Seoul avoiding Russia

Finnair has continued to update its traffic program due to the closure of the Russian airspace. The further increased price of cargo currently enables continuing of passenger services to Finnair’s key Asian markets even with the longer flight times. Finnair now continues to serve Seoul and Shanghai from its Helsinki hub. At the same time, Finnair cancels flights to Osaka and Hong Kong until the end of April. The flight routes to Seoul and Shanghai avoid Russian airspace, and the flight time for the Shanghai and Seoul routes will be 12-14 hours, depending on the direction. Both routes go around the Russian airspace from the south, and the return flight from Seoul to Helsinki can also take the northern route. Avoiding the Russian airspace on flights between Europe and Asia has considerable impacts on flight times, thus impacting fuel, personnel, and navigation costs. Finnair also continues to fly to Tokyo, Bangkok, Delhi, Phuket, and Singapore, with routes avoiding the Russian airspace.

7. Hilton will open a Curio Collection hotel on the Galapagos Islands

Hilton will bring its Curio Collection by Hilton brand to the Galapagos island of Santa Cruz with the conversion of the Royal Palm Galapagos Hotel. Born in 2000 out of a passion for travel, nature and environmental connection, the boutique hotel is comprised of 21 casitas and villas built around nature and brimming with the charm of an Ecuadorian Hacienda. Guests can recharge at the estate’s picturesque pool, spa and fitness center, or enjoy the natural wonders of the Galapagos by experiencing one-of-a-kind wildlife encounters from green turtles to beautiful birds, while enjoying the highest level of comfort and services provided within the protected eco-sensitive location. For an extra immersive dining experience, the hotel features the only fine dining restaurant located inside a cavern within one of the property’s lava tunnels. This once-in-a-lifetime experience gives guests a glimpse of the incredible forces that created the archipelago, while they enjoy a tasting menu inspired by local culture and ingredients. Expected to join Curio Collection by Hilton in July 2022, the hotel is currently undergoing renovation.

Curio Collection hotel on the Galapagos Islands

Curio Collection hotel on the Galapagos Islands

8. Marriott will bring its iconic St Regis brand to London

The St Regis brand continues to expand its renowned global portfolio by adding a highly sought-after address in London’s Mayfair neighborhood. The St Regis London is expected to welcome its first guests in 2023 after an extensive $122 million USD redevelopment and transformation of the former Westbury Mayfair Hotel, with the addition of an eighth floor. The hotel, which is expected to have 196 elegant rooms and suites, will be designed by Peter Newman-Earp of Morrison Design with interiors by Richmond International. Furthermore, the property is set to receive an extension to the rear of the hotel, creating enhanced public areas, along with renovations to the façade of the building and the drop-off area outside of the main entrance. Design plans include a signature restaurant, speakeasy jazz bar, fitness center and spa. The St Regis London will honor the building’s heritage by retaining the iconic Polo Bar, originally designed for the Phipps family of America, avid polo players and creators of the Westbury Hotel in New York and London, and where guests will be able to enjoy a local twist on the Bloody Mary, St. Regis’ signature cocktail.

St Regis London

St Regis London

9. Qantas launches non-stop Melbourne to Dallas route

Melbourne’s post-COVID tourism recovery is set to accelerate with Qantas launching a new direct route from Dallas Fort Worth and significantly increasing flights from Los Angeles. From 2 December 2022, the national carrier will operate four weekly return flights between Melbourne and major US hub, Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), with its Boeing 787 Dreamliners. These are the first direct flights by any airline between the two cities and follows the success of Qantas’ longstanding Sydney-Dallas Fort Worth route. Dallas Fort Worth is home to Qantas’ partner American Airlines, providing seamless connections between Australia and over 200 cities across the US, Canada, Mexico and South America. Qantas is also adding another four weekly return flights between Melbourne and Los Angeles with its 787s, up from four currently, to meet strong demand on the route. The airline’s refurbished A380s will resume operating some of these flights to LA from December, marking the return of Qantas’ superjumbo and reintroduction of First Class to Melbourne.

10. Cathay Pacific plans world’s longest nonstop flight

According to Bloomberg, Cathay Pacific plans to reroute its New York-Hong Kong service to avoid Russian airspace, in what would be the world’s longest commercial passenger flight by distance. The airline plans to fly from John F. Kennedy International Airport over the Atlantic Ocean, the U.K., southern Europe and central Asia, according to a memo to Cathay flight staff seen by Bloomberg News. The distance of 16,618 kilometers (10,326 miles) would surpass Singapore Airlines’ New York service, which takes about 17-and-a-half hours to cover 15,349 kilometers. A spokeswoman for Cathay said Airbus SE’s A350-1000 is capable of operating the route, which would typically fly over the Arctic and through Russian airspace. “The Transatlantic option relies on the facilitation of strong seasonal tailwinds at this time of the year in order for the flight time to be between 16 and 17 hours, thereby making it more favorable than the Transpacific route,” the spokeswoman said.

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The post Travel news: last month (March 2022) in luxury travel appeared first on the Luxury Travel Expert.

Top 10 safest airlines in the world for 2022

The Luxury Travel Expert — Mon, 10 Jan 2022 15:10:49 +0000

Monday newsletters always feature top 10 travel lists to inspire.

Today: Top 10 safest airlines in the world for 2022

Commercial aviation is regarded as one of the safest forms of travel. Airline accidents have been on a consistent global decline since more than 30 years, thanks to strict regulations and rigorous standards in the aviation industry. That said, some airlines are still better performing than others when it comes to safety standards, and that’s why the Australia-based aviation analysis website AirlineRatings.com produces each year a list of safest airlines in the world after monitoring more than 400 airlines. In making its evaluation of the safest airlines in the world, AirlineRatings.com takes into account a comprehensive range of factors that include: audits from aviation’s governing and industry bodies, government audits, airline’s crash and serious incident record, profitability, industry-leading safety initiatives, fleet age, and – most notably – COVID-19 protocols. Here are the 10 airlines the AirlineRatings.com website believes to be the safest in 2022.

There is more information (with trip reports & YouTube videos) below the slideshow. Do you agree with the list? Leave a comment.

*** Follow me on Instagram, YouTube, Twitter or Facebook for a daily moment of travel inspiration ***

10. VIRGIN ATLANTIC

Official website: Virgin Atlantic
Review: read here my review of Virgin Atlantic’s Business Class in an Airbus A350.

9. EVA AIR

Eva Air is the second largest Taiwanese airline (after China Airlines) and based at Taoyuan International Airport near Taipei, Taiwan. The privately owned carrier is a 5-star airline, rated by Skytrax, and flies to over 40 international destinations spread across 4 continents. Best known for its Hello Kitty-themed planes, Eva Air has long been considered one of the best and safest airlines in Asia. The carrier has not suffered any hull losses, accidents, or fatalities since its founding in 1988. The carrier currently operates a mixed fleet of Airbus and Boeing aircraft, with A330, A321, B777 and B787 planes mainly used on passenger routes along with B747 And B777 freighter aircraft flown on cargo routes.

Official website: EVA Air
Review: read here my review of Eva Air’s Business Class in a Boeing 777.

8. ALASKA AIRLINES

Official website: Alaska Airlines

10. ALASKA AIRLINES

7. QANTAS

Official website: Qantas
Review: read here my review of Qantas’ First Class in an Airbus A380.

6. SCANDINAVIAN AIRLINES

Scandinavian Airlines – more commonly known and styled as SAS – is the flag carrier of Denmark, Norway, and Sweden. The airline’s main hub is at Copenhagen-Kastrup Airport; Stockholm Arlanda Airport is the second largest hub; and Oslo Airport, Gardermoen is the third major hub of SAS. The airline was established in 1946 through a consortium agreement between three Scandinavian airlines. Today the SAS Group operates scheduled passenger, freight, and mail flights between more than 100 cities around the world. The airline boasts a stellar safety record, of course, and has implemented enhanced health and safety protocols in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Official website: Scandinavian Airlines

SCANDINAVIAN AIRLINES

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6. SCANDINAVIAN AIRLINES

5. TAP AIR PORTUGAL

Official website: TAP Air Portugal

TAP AIR PORTUGAL

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6. TAP AIR PORTUGAL

4. SINGAPORE AIRLINES

Official website: Singapore Airlines
Review: read here my review of Singapore Airlines’ new First Class in an Airbus A380.
Review: read here my review of Singapore Airlines’ Business Class in an Airbus A350.
Review: read here my review of Singapore Airlines’ Business Class in an Airbus A380.
Review: read here my review of Singapore Airlines’ Business Class in an Airbus A330.
Review: read here my review of Singapore Airlines’ Business Class in a Boeing 787 Dreamliner.

3. QATAR AIRWAYS

Official website: Qatar Airways
Review: read here my review of Qatar Airways’s First Class in an Airbus A380.
Review: read here my review of Qatar Airways’ QSuite Business Class in an Airbus A350.
Review: read here my review of Qatar Airways’ Business Class in a Dreamliner.
Review: read here my review of Qatar Airways’ Business Class in a Boeing 777.
Review: read here my review of Qatar Airways’ Business Class in an A330.

2. ETIHAD AIRWAYS

Official website: Etihad Airways
Review: read here my review of Etihad Airways’ First Class in an Airbus A380.
Review: read here my review of Etihad Airways’ Business Class in a Boeing 787.
Review: read here my review of Etihad Airways’ Business Class in a Boeing 777.
Review: read here my review of Etihad Airways’ Business Class in an Airbus A330.

1. AIR NEW ZEALAND

Official website: Air New Zealand

1. AIR NEW ZEALAND

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The post Top 10 safest airlines in the world for 2022 appeared first on the Luxury Travel Expert.

Top 10 safest airlines in the world for 2021

The Luxury Travel Expert — Mon, 25 Jan 2021 14:02:49 +0000

Monday newsletters always feature top 10 travel lists to inspire.

Today (January 25, 2021): Top 10 safest airlines in the world for 2021.

Commercial aviation is regarded as one of the safest forms of travel. Airline accidents have been on a consistent global decline since more than 30 years, thanks to strict regulations and rigorous standards in the aviation industry. That said, some airlines are still better performing than others when it comes to safety standards, and that’s why the Australia-based aviation analysis website AirlineRatings.com produces each year a list of safest airlines in the world after monitoring more than 400 airlines. In making its evaluation of the safest airlines in the world, AirlineRatings.com takes into account a comprehensive range of factors that include: audits from aviation’s governing and industry bodies, government audits, airline’s crash and serious incident record, profitability, industry-leading safety initiatives, and fleet age. Here are the 10 airlines the website believes to be the safest in 2021.

There is more information (with trip reports & YouTube videos) below the slideshow. Do you agree with the list? Leave a comment.

*** Follow me on Instagram, Youtube, Twitter or Facebook for a daily moment of travel inspiration ***

10. BRITISH AIRWAYS

British Airways is the number one carrier in London, the world’s largest international aviation market, and the number one European carrier across the North Atlantic. The carrier was created in 1974 after a British Airways Board was established by the British government to merge two nationalized airline corporations and two regional airlines. Today, British Airways flies to more than 70 different countries, carries more than 40 million customers a year, and has a fleet of nearly 300 aircraft. Recent years have seen the airline adopt next-generation aircraft including the Airbus A320neo, Airbus A321neo, Airbus A350-1000XWB, and all three variants of the Boeing 787 Dreamliner.

Official website: British Airways
Review: read here my review of British Airways’ First Class in an Airbus A380.
Review: read here my review of British Airways’ First Class in a Boeing 787.
Review: read here my review of British Airways’ Business Class in an Airbus A380.
Review: read here my review of British Airways’ Business Class in a Boeing 747.
Review: read here my review of British Airways’ Business Class in a Boeing 777.
Review: read here my review of British Airways’ Business Class in a Boeing 787.

9. CATHAY PACIFIC

In 1946, Roy Farrell and Sydney de Kantzow – two ex-Air Force pilots known for flying ‘The Hump’ over the Himalayas – had the idea to fly much-needed goods from Australia into post-war China. From there came Cathay Pacific, an airline fueled by its founders’ passion for connecting the world with its home in Hong Kong. The airline serves more than 90 destinations in some 35 countries across Asia, the Pacific, Europe, North America, the Middle East and Africa. Cathay Pacific operates a fleet consisting of Airbus A330, Airbus A350 and Boeing 777 wide-body aircraft. Cathay Pacific has not suffered any significant incident in the past couple of decades.

Official website: Cathay Pacific
Review: read here my review of Cathay Pacific’s First Class in a Boeing B777-300ER
Review: read here my review of Cathay Pacific’s Business Class in an Airbus A350.
Review: read here my review of Cathay Pacific’s Business Class in a Boeing B777-300ER.
Review: read here my review of Cathay Pacific’s Business Class in an Airbus A330.

8. ALASKA AIRLINES

Official website: Alaska Airlines

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10. ALASKA AIRLINES

7. ETIHAD AIRWAYS

Official website: Etihad Airways
Review: read here my review of Etihad Airways’ First Class in an Airbus A380.
Review: read here my review of Etihad Airways’ Business Class in a Boeing 787 .
Review: read here my review of Etihad Airways’ Business Class in a Boeing 777.
Review: read here my review of Etihad Airways’ Business Class in an Airbus A330.

6. EVA AIR

Eva Air is the second largest Taiwanese airline (after China Airlines) and based at Taoyuan International Airport near Taipei, Taiwan. The privately owned carrier is a 5-star airline, rated by Skytrax, and flies to over 40 international destinations spread across 4 continents. Best known for its Hello Kitty-themed planes, Eva Air has long been considered one of the best and safest airlines in Asia. The carrier has not suffered any hull losses, accidents, or fatalities since its founding in 1988. The carrier currently operates a mixed fleet of Airbus and Boeing aircraft, with A330, A321, B777 and B787 planes mainly used on passenger routes along with B747 And B777 freighter aircraft flown on cargo routes.

Official website: EVA Air
Review: read here my review of Eva Air’s Business Class in a Boeing 777.

5. EMIRATES

Established in 1985, Emirates is the national carrier of the emirate of Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Emirates is among the largest and fastest-growing carriers worldwide, and one of the few airlines to operate an all-wide-body aircraft fleet. It is also the largest Airbus A380 and Boeing 777 operator on the planet. Operating from its hub at Dubai International Airport, Emirates provides an extensive network of services within the Middle East as well as to Africa, Asia, the South Pacific, North America, Europe and South America. The airline also has an impressive safety record, with only one hull-loss accident in its 35-year history.

Official website: Emirates
Review: read here my review of Emirates’ First Class in an Airbus A380.
Review: read here my review of Emirates’ First Class in a Boeing 777.
Review: read here my review of Emirates’ Business Class in an Airbus A380.
Review: read here my review of Emirates’ Business Class in a Boeing 777-300ER.
Review: read here my review of Emirates’ Business Class in a Boeing 777-200LR.

4. SINGAPORE AIRLINES

Official website: Singapore Airlines
Review: read here my review of Singapore Airlines’ new First Class in an Airbus A380.
Review: read here my review of Singapore Airlines’ Business Class in an Airbus A350.
Review: read here my review of Singapore Airlines’ Business Class in an Airbus A380.
Review: read here my review of Singapore Airlines’ Business Class in an Airbus A330.
Review: read here my review of Singapore Airlines’ Business Class in a Boeing 787 Dreamliner.

3. AIR NEW ZEALAND

Official website: Air New Zealand

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1. AIR NEW ZEALAND

2. QATAR AIRWAYS

Official website: Qatar Airways
Review: read here my review of Qatar Airways’s First Class in an Airbus A380.
Review: read here my review of Qatar Airways’ QSuite Business Class in an Airbus A350.
Review: read here my review of Qatar Airways’ Business Class in a Dreamliner.
Review: read here my review of Qatar Airways’ Business Class in a Boeing 777.
Review: read here my review of Qatar Airways’ Business Class in an A330.

1. QANTAS

Official website: Qantas
Review: read here my review of Qantas’ First Class in an Airbus A380.

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Travel news: this month (September 2020) in luxury travel

The Luxury Travel Expert — Fri, 25 Sep 2020 13:03:33 +0000

Friday newsletters always feature travel contests, tips, series, or news.

Today (September 25, 2020): September 2020 luxury travel news.

Every last Friday of the month, you can read my news round-up of what’s happening in the world of luxury travel and aviation. In this issue:

Four Seasons will manage an iconic Sicily hotel
Four Seasons announces a new resort in Mexico
Qantas flight to nowhere sells out in 10 minutes
One&Only Desaru Coast opens in Malaysia
Oman Air resumes its flights to Europe
Hāna-Maui Resort joins Hyatt’s Destination Hotels brand
Air New Zealand grounds Boeing 777 fleet until September 2021
New bus trip will take you from Delhi to London in 70 days
British Airways will offer First Class seat with sliding door
Starlux Airlines’ A350 aircraft will feature a First Class cabin

1. Four Seasons will manage an iconic Sicily hotel

Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, one of the world’s leading luxury hospitality company, announced that the celebrated San Domenico Palace in Taormina is under an extensive renovation program and will be unveiled as San Domenico Palace, Taormina, A Four Seasons Hotel. San Domenico Palace is ideally placed on the hilltop town of Taormina on the eastern shores of Sicily, overlooking the Bay of Taormina and the Ionian Sea. The Hotel features multiple terraces with clear views of the surrounding waters, as well as Mount Etna, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Following extensive renovations, the hotel will reopen with 111 guest rooms and suites, a new beach club and restaurant, along with the two-Michelin star restaurant, Principe Cerami, as well as enhancements to the current facilities and public areas. The hotel will also include a state-of-the-art spa with seven treatment rooms, an indoor pool, and a Turkish bath.

Four Seasons Taormina, Sicily

Four Seasons Resort Tamarindo, México

Four Seasons Taormina, Sicily

2. Four Seasons announces a new resort in Mexico

Debuting in 2021 as Four Seasons Resort Tamarindo, México, the project will be located on a private peninsula along the Pacific Ocean in the state of Jalisco, between the towns of La Manzanilla and Barra de Navidad. The area, known as “Costa Alegre” or “Joy Coast” is acclaimed for its picturesque beaches, lush landscape and unique topography. Most of its 155 rooms will boast panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, enveloped by the surrounding jungle and lush golf course. The contemporary architectural and interior design by the firms of LEGORRETA and Taller Mauricio Rocha + Gabriela Carrillo will blend with the natural surroundings and showcase local materials and textures. The resort will offer four dining and beverage venues, including an ocean view bar and restaurant, beach bar and grill and golf club restaurant. The grounds will also feature three pools and a full-service spa set amid a tropical forest.

Four Seasons Resort Tamarindo, México

3. Qantas flight to nowhere sells out in 10 minutes

Pre-pandemic, many of us viewed flying simply as a method of getting from one destination to another as quickly as possible. But amid global restrictions, travelers have been daydreaming not only about far-flung destinations, but the flying experience itself. That’s where “flights to nowhere” come in – air travel that takes place purely for the purpose of the journey, not the destination. Proving how popular these now are, a sightseeing flight to nowhere offered by Qantas sold out within 10 minutes, according to CNN. “It’s probably the fastest selling flight in Qantas history,” the airline’s CEO, Alan Joyce, said in a statement. The seven-hour scenic flight will be flown by a Boeing 787 Dreamliner and perform a giant loop taking in Queensland and the Gold Coast, New South Wales and the country’s remote outback heartlands. From above, keen fliers should be able to spot famous Aussie attractions including Sydney Harbour and the Great Barrier Reef. The jet will do a low flyover over certain landmarks, including Uluru.

QANTAS

One&Only Desaru Coast, Malaysia

QANTAS

4. One&Only Desaru Coast opens in Malaysia

Unspoilt wild flora, lush rainforests and a secluded coastline of pristine golden sands await at One&Only Desaru Coast, the first One&Only resort in Asia. Nestled on the south-eastern shoreline of Malaysia and designed by the award-winning Kerry Hill Architects, One&Only Desaru Coast celebrates the destination’s architectural heritage with a modern interpretation of the traditional Malaysian ‘kampung’ (‘village’). Spread across 128 acres, the resort has an intimate collection of just 42 junior suites, two expansive two-bedroom grand suites and an exclusive four-bedroom villa one. All boast private plunge pools, abundant indoor and outdoor living spaces, decadent bathrooms and thoughtful Malaysian-inspired design features. Guests have access to world-class restaurants, a secluded spa, spectacular infinity pool, and a buzzing beach club.

One&Only Desaru Coast, Malaysia

5. Oman Air resumes its flights to Europe

Oman Air, the national carrier of the Sultanate of Oman, will return to scheduled service on 1 October with service to 17 cities in 12 countries including 2 flights per week connecting Muscat and London, Frankfurt and Istanbul. Oman Air will maintain its comprehensive safety program throughout all elements of the travel journey to ensure that guests fly confidently. Masks are required when guests are on board the aircraft and in Oman’s airports. Distancing is maintained while guests board and exit the aircraft, which are carefully cleaned after each flight and at the end of every day. Cabin crew all wear a full set of personal protective equipment, meal service has been modified to further ensure safety and a number of other steps have been taken to ensure that the airline’s guests and crew are safe at all times.

Oman Air 787

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Oman Air 787

6. Hāna-Maui Resort joins Hyatt’s Destination Hotels brand

The famous Travaasa Hana-Maui Resort will be rebranded under Hyatt’s Destination Hotels brand. Offering a diverse collection of independent hotels, resorts and residences across North America, Destination Hotels properties are individual at heart yet connected by a commitment to embody the true spirit of each location. Located in the legendary town of Hāna on the eastern tip of Maui, Hāna-Maui Resort is set above Hāna Bay overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Hāna, known for its raw beauty and wild rainforests, exudes authentic Hawaii through its quaint ranches and pastures, local artisans, rich culture and history and close-knit community. The famed “road to Hāna” winds through nearly 600 curves and over 54 one-lane bridges leading to spectacular road-side waterfalls and plunge pools. Hāna-Maui Resort features 75 guest rooms, suites, bungalows and family residences. Additional amenities include two dining options, an expansive wellness center, two pools, a yoga pavilion and a plethora of adventure-driven and cultural experiences.

7. Air New Zealand grounds Boeing 777 fleet until September 2021

Air New Zealand has grounded its Boeing 777 fleet until at least September 2021 due to the ongoing impact of COVID-19. Four of Air New Zealand’s 777-300 aircraft will be stored in Victorville in the Californian desert, while the remaining three will stay in Auckland where they are able to be returned to service if required. The airline’s 777-200 aircraft will be sent to long-term storage facilities in both Roswell, New Mexico and Victorville, California from later this month. The North American locations were chosen for their arid conditions and existing storage facilities which will ensure aircraft are kept in a condition that will enable them to be returned to service within six to eight weeks if required. The 777s are the largest aircraft in Air New Zealand’s fleet and have operated the majority of the airline’s long haul routes over the past 15 years. The airline’s international schedule will be operated by the more fuel-efficient Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft, along with A320s and A320/21neos for trans-Tasman and Pacific Island routes.

2. AIR NEW ZEALAND

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8. New bus trip will take you from Delhi to London in 70 days

Before it all began, and India gained the attention of the Western tourist seeking a slice of ‘oriental mysticism’, there were two kinds of overland travelers on these routes – those who took organized bus tours like Indiaman, Albert, Silver Express etc. and then there was the Hippie Trail. Hordes of young men and women packed themselves in “magic buses” and travelled overland from Europe to Asia, in search of ‘enlightenment’. The most popular and the first amongst them was a 1957 trip organized by Oswald-Joseph Garrow-Fisher, in a bus named The Indiaman. The bus began its journey with 20 passengers on board, departing from London on April 15, 1957, and reaching Kolkata on June 5. Now, Adventures Overland is all set to launch its very own dream bus which will recreate that vibrant era gone by, but with utmost comfort and luxury. As part of the journey, guests will cross 18 countries in 70 days, exploring thousands of pagodas in Myanmar, meeting rare species of Giant Pandas in Chengdu, hiking the Great Wall of China, visiting the historic cities of Bukhara, Tashkent & Samarkand in Uzbekistan, and cruising on the Caspian Sea in Kazakhstan.

india to London bus

india to London bus

9. British Airways will offer First Class seat with sliding door

British Airways has confirmed that it will introduce a modified First Class seat with a privacy door on new B777-300 aircraft being delivered from next month. The move follows the launch of the carrier’s Club Suite business class product last year, which also features a sliding privacy door and which has been well received by customers. News of an internal letter to staff announcing the modified seat had been posted on several aviation forums, and the carrier has now provided Business Traveller with the following comment: “The new Club Suite has been so popular with our customers that we made the decision at the start of the year to adjust the First seat on the new 777-300 aircraft to include a door for additional privacy.” Below, you can watch my video of British Airways’ First Class product on the B787.

10. Starlux Airlines’ A350 aircraft will feature a First Class cabin

Taiwan based-StarLux Airlines said on Sunday that its new fleet of wide-body A350 aircraft will have first class cabins, even though the COVID-19 pandemic has severely impacted the aviation industry. The airline, which flew its first commercial flight on Jan. 23, has ordered 17 wide-body A350 aircraft (nine A350-900s and eight A350-1000s) from Airbus, the first of which is scheduled to arrive in the fourth quarter of 2021, according to the airline’s spokesperson Nieh Kuo-wei. Since StarLux positions itself as a luxury airline, all of the aircraft will offer first class seats, with the exact seating arrangement to be determined by the end of the year, Nieh said. The fleet will first be used to fly routes to Northeast and Southeast Asia, and then to the United States in the second quarter of 2022, when the airline plans to begin services to the U.S. west coast, Nieh said. Taiwan’s two main international carriers, EVA Airways and CAL, began phasing out first class after they took delivery of Boeing B777-300ERs in 2005 and 2014, respectively, following a growing trend in the global industry.

starlux

starlux

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The post Travel news: this month (September 2020) in luxury travel appeared first on the Luxury Travel Expert.

Top 10 safest airlines in the world for 2020

The Luxury Travel Expert — Mon, 20 Jan 2020 14:01:03 +0000

Monday newsletters always feature top 10 travel lists to inspire.

Today (January 20, 2020): Top 10 safest airlines in the world for 2020.

Commercial aviation is widely regarded as one of the safest forms of travel. Despite some recent horrific events (e.g. the downing of the Ukraine International Airlines plane in Iran and the two Boeing 737 Max aircraft crashes in 2018), airline accidents have been on a consistent global decline since more than 30 years, thanks to strict regulations and rigorous standards in the aviation industry. That said, some airlines are still better performing than others when it comes to safety standards, and that’s why the Australia-based aviation analysis website AirlineRatings.com produces each year a list of safest airlines in the world after monitoring more than 400 airlines. In making its evaluation of the safest airlines in the world, AirlineRatings.com takes into account a comprehensive range of factors that include: audits from aviation’s governing and industry bodies, government audits, airline’s crash and serious incident record, profitability, industry-leading safety initiatives, and fleet age. Here’s which airlines the website believes to be the safest in the skies this year; all of these airlines are standouts in the industry and are at the forefront of safety, innovation, and launching of new aircraft.

There is more information (with trip reports & YouTube clips) below the slideshow. Do you agree with the list? Leave a comment.

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10. VIRGIN AUSTRALIA

Virgin Australia, the Australian spinoff of Sir Richard Branson’s global aviation empire, was launched in 1999 as a low-cost carrier called Virgin Blue. In 2012, Virgin Blue re-branded and repositioned from a low-cost airline to a full service airline, now called Virgin Australia. This included the introduction of a new aircraft livery, new uniforms, new on board menu options, and the acquisition of new wide-body aircraft to compete with Qantas. Virgin Australia is now the second largest airline in the Australian market, flying passengers to 40 domestic destinations and to more than 450 destinations worldwide. The airline has no fatal crashes in its history.

Official website: Virgin Australia

VIRGIN AUSTRALIA

10. VIRGIN AUSTRALIA

9. CATHAY PACIFIC

Official website: Cathay Pacific
Review: read here my review of Cathay Pacific’s Business Class in an Airbus A350.
Review: read here my review of Cathay Pacific’s Business Class in a Boeing B777-300ER.
Review: read here my review of Cathay Pacific’s Business Class in an Airbus A330.

CATHAY PACIFIC

9. CATHAY PACIFIC

8. ALASKA AIRLINES

Official website: Alaska Airlines

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10. ALASKA AIRLINES

7. EMIRATES

Official website: Emirates
Review: read here my review of Emirates’ First Class in an Airbus A380.
Review: read here my review of Emirates’ First Class in a Boeing 777.
Review: read here my review of Emirates’ Business Class in an Airbus A380.
Review: read here my review of Emirates’ Business Class in a Boeing 777-300ER.
Review: read here my review of Emirates’ Business Class in a Boeing 777-200LR.

EMIRATES

6. EMIRATES

6. SINGAPORE AIRLINES

Official website: Singapore Airlines
Review: read here my review of Singapore Airlines’ new First Class in an Airbus A380.
Review: read here my review of Singapore Airlines’ Business Class in an Airbus A350.
Review: read here my review of Singapore Airlines’ Business Class in an Airbus A380.
Review: read here my review of Singapore Airlines’ Business Class in an Airbus A330.
Review: read here my review of Singapore Airlines’ Business Class in a Boeing 787 Dreamliner.

SNIGAPORE AIRLINES

5. SINGAPORE AIRLINES

5. QATAR AIRWAYS

Official website: Qatar Airways
Review: read here my review of Qatar Airways’s First Class in an Airbus A380.
Review: read here my review of Qatar Airways’ QSuite Business Class in an Airbus A350.
Review: read here my review of Qatar Airways’ Business Class in a Dreamliner.
Review: read here my review of Qatar Airways’ Business Class in a Boeing 777.
Review: read here my review of Qatar Airways’ Business Class in an A330.

4. ETIHAD AIRWAYS

Official website: Etihad Airways
Review: read here my review of Etihad Airways’ First Class in an Airbus A380.
Review: read here my review of Etihad Airways’ Business Class in an Airbus A330.
Review: read here my review of Etihad Airways’ Business Class in a Boeing 777.

3. EVA AIR

Eva Air is the second largest Taiwanese airline (after China Airlines) and based at Taoyuan International Airport near Taipei, Taiwan. The privately owned carrier is a 5-star airline, rated by Skytrax, and flies to over 40 international destinations spread across 4 continents. Best known for its Hello Kitty-themed planes, Eva Air has long been considered one of the best and safest airlines in Asia. The carrier has not suffered any hull losses, accidents, or fatalities since its founding in 1988. The carrier currently operates a mixed fleet of Airbus and Boeing aircraft, with A330, A321, B777 and B787 planes mainly used on passenger routes along with B747 And B777 freighter aircraft flown on cargo routes.

Official website: EVA Air
Review: coming soon

EVA AIR

9. EVA AIR

2. AIR NEW ZEALAND

Official website: Air New Zealand

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1. AIR NEW ZEALAND

1. QANTAS

Official website: Qantas
Review: read here my review of Qantas’ First Class in an Airbus A380.

*** Follow me on Instagram, Youtube, Twitter or Facebook for a daily moment of travel inspiration ***

The post Top 10 safest airlines in the world for 2020 appeared first on the Luxury Travel Expert.

Travel news: this month (October 2019) in luxury travel

The Luxury Travel Expert — Fri, 25 Oct 2019 13:00:35 +0000

Friday newsletters always feature travel contests, tips, series, or news.

Today (October 25, 2019): October 2019 luxury travel news.

Every last Friday of the month, you can read my news round-up of what’s happening in the world of luxury travel and aviation. In this issue:

St Regis Hotels debuts on Venice’s Grand Canal
St Regis will bring its iconic brand to Oman
Qantas B787 Dreamliner completes longest ever commercial flight
Qantas upgrades the interiors of its A380 aircraft
Four Seasons opens its highly anticipated resort in Los Cabos, Mexico
Air New Zealand cancels its London route
Etihad Airways sets up a low cost carrier
Air France welcomes its first Airbus A350
Mandarin Oriental will open a hotel on Lake Lucerne, Switzerland
Qatar’s Hamad International Airport unveils expansion plan

QANTAS B787 DREAMLINER COMPLETES LONGEST COMMERCIAL FLIGHT EVER

1. St. Regis Hotels debuts on Venice’s Grand Canal

The St Regis Venice is located steps away from Piazza San Marco and boasts the largest waterfrontage in Venice. The opening follows a two-year, full-scale renovation of the former Grand Hotel Britannia, which opened in 1895 – the same year as the inaugural Venice Biennale. The hotel offers 169 guestrooms and suites, many of which boast private terraces or Juliet balconies for sweeping views of Venice’s iconic landmarks. Situated across the Grand Canal from Punta della Dogana, the hotel marries its celebrated heritage with the St. Regis brand’s modern design and bespoke service throughout a unique collection of five Venetian palaces, with the oldest dating back to the 17th century. The St. Regis Venice marks the brand’s third location in Italy, joining The St. Regis Florence and The St. Regis Rome.

ST REGIS VENICE, ITALY

St Regis Al Mouj Muscat Resorts Oman

1. ST REGIS VENICE, ITALY

2. St Regis will bring its iconic brand to Oman

Expected to open in 2022, the 271-room St. Regis Al Mouj Muscat Resort is planned to rise on a prime beachfront plot within Oman’s lifestyle and leisure destination, Al Mouj Muscat. The property is expected to encompass the hallmarks of the St. Regis brand such as its signature St. Regis butler service. The amenities that are planned include an outdoor pool, spa, health facilities and leisure club, and five specialty restaurants including the iconic St. Regis bar, inspired by the original King Cole Bar at The St. Regis New York. The beachfront location is expected to allow guests to access Al Mouj Golf – an 18-hole championship golf course, designed by Greg Norman. The project also includes 170 branded residences, which are expected to include a mix of apartments, penthouses and townhouses.

St Regis Al Mouj Muscat Resorts Oman

3. Qantas B787 Dreamliner completes longest ever commercial flight

The first non-stop commercial flight from New York to Sydney has landed on October 20th after 19 hours 16 minutes in the air. A total of 49 passengers and crew were on the Qantas flight, which was used to run a series of experiments to assess health and well-being onboard. Data from these experiments will be used help shape the crew rostering and customer service of Qantas’ ultra-long haul flights in future. Tests ranged from monitoring pilot brain waves, melatonin levels and alertness, through to exercise classes for passengers. Cabin lighting and in-flight meals were also adjusted in ways that are expected to help reduce jetlag. Two more research flights are planned: London to Sydney in November and another New York to Sydney in December.

4. Qantas upgrades the interiors of its A380 aircraft

All 12 of the Australian national carrier Qantas‘ A380 aircraft will be refurbished as part of a multimillion-dollar upgrade, delivering higher levels of comfort and a higher number of premium seats. The upgraded A380s will feature several improvements for passengers:

Australian designer David Caon has transformed the aircraft’s upper deck lounge, which has been significantly expanded. It now features seating for 10 people on deep green leather couches and wood paneled walls. Qantas chef Neil Perry and his Rockpool team have created a menu of snacks and light meals to be enjoyed by First and Business Class customers in the redesigned upper deck lounge.
The Caon-designed Premium Economy seat, which made its debut on the Qantas Dreamliner fleet, also features as part of the upgrade. Smarter use of space on the A380 has allowed Qantas to increase the number of Premium Economy seats from 35 to 60. In total, there is a 27 per cent boost to premium seats, improving the economics of the aircraft and allowing Qantas to respond to growing demand on long-haul flights.
Qantas will also install it Dreamliners’ Business Suite, dubbed “mini First” by the airline’s frequent flyers, on its A380s, providing direct aisle access for every passenger.
Improvements in the First cabin including, a refresh of the First Suite with new contoured cushioning and higher resolution entertainment screen, a redesigned Martin Grant sleeper suit in dark charcoal with a Henley neckline and burgundy trim, and a new First Class amenity kit

A factsheet on Qantas’ A380 upgrade can be downloaded here.

qantas A380 upgrade

FOUR SEASONS RESORT LOS CABOS AT COSTA PALMAS

qantas A380 upgrade

5. Four Seasons opens its highly anticipated resort in Los Cabos, Mexico

Just 45 minutes from Los Cabos International Airport and a world away from the Cabo crowds, the sleek and contemporary Four Seasons Resort Los Cabos at Costa Palmas features 141 guest rooms including 23 suites, five dining options including world-renowned estiatorio Milos, multiple retail experiences, a sports complex, four expansive pools, a spa & wellness center, a teen center & Kids for All Seasons program, multiple unique indoor/outdoor celebration spaces, and a collection of private villas and residences for sale. The Four Seasons is the first resort to open within the thousand-acre (400 hectare) exclusive resort community of Costa Palmas, which offers guests and residents a Robert Trent Jones II designed 18-hole golf course and 18-acres (7 hectares) of organic farm and orchards.

MANDARIN ORIENTAL PALACE, LUZERN, SWITZERLAND

FOUR SEASONS RESORT LOS CABOS AT COSTA PALMAS

6. Air New Zealand cancels its London route

Air New Zealand has announced that its Los Angeles to London route will end in October 2020. The news come as a surprise since the London flight was offered for more than 40 years and since it is the carrier’s only link to Europe. Some years ago, Air New Zealand other flight route to London via Hong Kong was also canceled, but the then CEO said that the service via Los Angeles would be retained, even though it was thought to be unprofitable, because it linked New Zealand to Europe. Instead of the London flight, Air New Zealand will operate a non-stop service between Auckland and New York (Newark). Although schedules are not yet available, it is expected that Air New Zealand will link with United Airlines at Newark to provide onward connections to the UK and mainland Europe.

2. AIR NEW ZEALAND

7. Etihad Airways sets up a low cost carrier

According to Reuters, Etihad Airways and Air Arabia are jointly setting up a low cost carrier in Abu Dhabi to tap into growing demand for budget travel from the United Arab Emirates’ capital. It is the first investment by Etihad in another airline since its ‘equity alliance’ strategy, which once saw it hold stakes in as many as eight other carriers, unraveled. The new airline will be called Air Arabia Abu Dhabi, although further details such as when the airline would start flying or ownership structure will only be given in the near future. Air Arabia Abu Dhabi will be the UAE’s fifth airline. Others include Emirates, one of the world’s largest airlines, and Dubai discount carrier Flydubai. Air Arabia, the UAE’s only listed airline, has its main hub at UAE’s Sharjah airport.

8. Air France welcomes its first Airbus A350

Air France took delivery of its first Airbus A350. This new more environmentally-friendly latest-generation aircraft is equipped with 324 seats, with 34 in the Business Class cabin (pictured below), 24 in Premium Economy Class and 266 in Economy Class. By 2025, the company will welcome a total of 28 Airbus A350s into its fleet. To mark the occasion, Air France is returning to its tradition of naming its aircraft. After consulting its staff, the company has decided to celebrate emblematic French cities. This first Airbus A350 is therefore being named “Toulouse”, the capital of aviation par excellence, and the birthplace of this new aircraft. The Air France Airbus A350 will gradually start operating to 6 destinations: Toronto, Abidjan, Seoul, Cairo, Bamako, and Bangkok.

9. Mandarin Oriental will open a hotel on Lake Lucerne, Switzerland

Mandarin Oriental has announced that it will manage and re-brand an existing hotel on Lake Lucerne, Switzerland. The property is currently undergoing an extensive renovation and will re-open as Mandarin Oriental Palace, Luzern at the end of 2020. The iconic Hotel Palace Luzern first opened in 1906 and is located in the heart of the city, on the shores of Lake Lucerne. The multi-million-dollar renovation will include the restyling of all guestrooms and suites, the redesign of the public areas, as well as the landscaping of the gardens. Once reopened, the Mandarin Oriental Palace, Luzern will comprise 146 rooms and suites offering views of the lake and mountains. There will be a restaurant and a bar together with a variety of social and meeting facilities and a spa and fitness room.

Hamad International Airport

21. MANDARIN ORIENTAL PALACE, LUZERN, SWITZERLAND

10. Qatar’s Hamad International Airport unveils expansion plan

Hamad International Airport – the hub of Qatar Airways – has revealed plans for its expansion, which will feature a spectacular 10,000 sqm indoor tropical garden in a central concourse as well as a 268 sqm water feature. The flora for the indoor tropical garden will be brought in from sustainable forests from around the world. Designers have developed a column-free, grid shell roof with performance glass to control and filter the light required for the trees to acclimatize to the internal conditions of the terminal and grow throughout the life of the airport. Other significant features will include a new transfer area which will help shorten passengers’ connection times, nine additional wide-body aircraft stands, and a new Qatar Airways lounge complex (which will feature spas, gymnasiums, and restaurants).

Hamad International Airport

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The post Travel news: this month (October 2019) in luxury travel appeared first on the Luxury Travel Expert.

Travel news: this month (August 2019) in luxury travel

The Luxury Travel Expert — Fri, 30 Aug 2019 11:23:38 +0000

Friday newsletters always feature travel contests, tips, series, or news.

Today (August 30, 2019): August 2019 luxury travel news.

Every last Friday of the month, you can read my news round-up of what’s happening in the world of luxury travel and aviation. In this issue:

Aman announces three resorts in Saudi Arabia
Air New Zealand scores with Air All Blacks
Singita opens an ultraluxe lodge in Rwanda
Thai Airways reveals a royal Boeing 777 livery
InterContinental returns to Edinburgh, Scotland
Finnair flies San Francisco-Helsinki on biofuel blend
Four Seasons opens North America’s highest situated hotel
Air Canada reveals new A220 cabins and routes
Aman offers a chance to book a room with a Picasso
Qantas researches direct London & New York to Australia flights

1. Aman announces three resorts in Saudi Arabia

Aman, the world’s most exclusive hotel brand, announced its forthcoming debut in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in 2023. Following a partnership with the Royal Commission for Al Ula (RCU), Aman will develop three distinct resorts of architectural excellence in North West Saudi Arabia, in Al Ula, a place of extraordinary natural and human heritage. True to the pioneering spirit of Aman, the three resorts will offer an incomparable insight into the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and its magnificent unspoilt natural landscapes and archaeological sites, which have long remained undiscovered. This development will encompass a fascinating journey to include a tented camp, at one with nature; a sublime resort close to Al Ula’s spectacular heritage areas; and a third development as Aman’s take on a ranch-style desert resort nestled in an otherworldly setting. The vast area of Al Ula covers 22,561 sq. km, and includes a lush oasis valley, towering sandstone mountains and ancient cultural heritage sites dating back thousands of years to when the Lihyan and Nabataean Kingdoms reigned.

2. Air New Zealand scores with Air All Blacks

All eyes are on Air All Blacks with Air New Zealand‘s latest safety video attracting more than one million views globally since its release. Along with winning fans down under, the video has attracted strong interest from North and South America, Japan and the United Kingdom. As well as being a trending topic on Twitter, there has been a resoundingly positive response from Air New Zealan’s social media followers, citing the video as being “one of the best ones yet”, “loving the nostalgia of the 1987 All Blacks legends” and on Rick Hoffman’s “hilarious addition to an already awesome video.” In an interview with Newshub’s ‘The AM Show’, Air All Blacks safety video star Rick Hoffman said featuring in the video was a ‘dream come true’. “If I look back on my 49 years of living, there are two things I really wanted. One was to climb Mount Kilimanjaro and the other was to star in a safety video for Air New Zealand.” Air New Zealand General Manager Global Brand and Content Marketing Jodi Williams says the airline is thrilled with Air All Blacks. “Our safety videos have built a global following and are a unique platform to share the best of New Zealand with the world.”

3. Singita opens an ultraluxe lodge in Rwanda

Singita, the multi-award-winning hospitality and conservation brand, officially opened its Singita Kwitonda Lodge and Kataza House in Rwanda. Set on 178 acres (72 hectares) on the edge of Volcanoes National Park, Kwitonda Lodge boasts eight luxurious suites, while Kataza House, an exclusive-use villa, features four spacious suites. Conceptualized by GAPP Architects in collaboration with Singita’s interior design teams, the design takes its cue from Rwanda’s cultural heritage and the enormous responsibility of protecting the strong, yet vulnerable gorillas. Bold, striking interiors, which are simultaneously nurturing, reflect the duality of the gorillas’ nature; and this is also seen in the interplay of surprisingly strong art and furniture with pared-back modernity. Featuring largely vegetable-based dishes and local Rwandan favorites, the on-site herb and fruit garden supplies the lodge kitchens with an array of fresh ingredients, reflected in a farm-to-table approach to the menu. For guests, gorilla trekking is a major drawcard, and Singita situated less than ten minutes from Volcanoes National Park headquarters, makes this life-changing experience incredibly accessible.

Singita Rwanda

INTERCONTINENTAL EDINBURGH – THE GEORGE, UNITED KINGDOM

Singita Rwanda

4. Thai Airways reveals a royal Boeing 777 livery

To commemorate the Royal Coronation Ceremony 2019, Thai Airways unveiled a royal aircraft livery on one of its Boeing 777 aircraft, royally bestowed the name “Lahan Sai.” The Suphannahong Royal Barge has been the King’s royal barge since the Ayutthaya era. At the front or bow of the barge is a golden swan figurehead, the body or hull is the body of the swan etched in wood and decorated with gold leaf, mirrors, tassels, and engraved glass. The exterior of the barge was painted black, while the interior was painted red, with a throne in the middle of the barge for the monarch or royalty. The Royal Barge was 46.15 meters long, 3.17 meters wide, and 15 tons in weight. Furthermore, this Royal Barge will be used in the Royal Procession for travel along the Chao Phraya River to Wat Arun Ratchavararam (Temple of Dawn) to present robes to Buddhist monks during this year’s annual Royal Kathin Ceremony in October 2019. The “Lahan Sai” Boeing 777 will be operated on roundtrip flights from Bangkok-Seoul, Taipei, Beijing, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, and Sapporo to promote Thai culture worldwide through the Suphannahong Royal Barge aircraft livery.

5. InterContinental returns to Edinburgh, Scotland

IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) brings InterContinental Edinburgh – The George back into the system as they continue their integration of the Principal portfolio. This important investment milestone follows the opening of Kimpton branded hotels in Edinburgh and Glasgow earlier this year. With the reintroduction of the InterContinental brand in Scotland, IHG further secures their position as the UK’s largest luxury hotel operator. The hotel was previously sold but the integration of the Principal portfolio provided the opportunity to bring it back in to the IHG brand family. Located in the central district of New Town, the InterContinental Edinburgh – The George is surrounded by iconic attractions such as Edinburgh Castle, Charlotte Square and Edinburgh Farmers Market. The property is an integration of Georgian townhouses that were originally built in the 1780s and would have been amongst the most exclusive addresses in the city. The hotel design preserves the original beauty and architecture of the building whilst offering a contemporary, modest luxury design.

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL PHILADELPHIA, USA

12. INTERCONTINENTAL EDINBURGH – THE GEORGE, UNITED KINGDOM

6. Finnair flies San Francisco-Helsinki on biofuel blend

On both August 5th and 7th, the Finnair flight departing San Francisco Airport bound for Helsinki, Finland, was flown with a biofuel mix, reducing the total C02 emissions for the two flights by approximately 32 tons. “The launch of our Push for Change initiative was an important step in order to provide our passengers with the opportunity to conveniently offset or decrease the emissions from their travel,” says Arja Suominen, Communications Manager at Finnair. “We have been pleased with the early phases of the initiative so far and we are now excited with our two first biofuel flights supported entirely by the Push for change contributions.” Finnair’s biofuels partners in San Francisco were SkyNRG and World Energy; Shell Aviation provided logistics and supply chain support for the project. The sustainable biofuel was produced from used cooking oil in California, which does not compete with food production or the agriculture industry. Additional information on Finnair’s Push for Change initiative, including the options to purchase biofuel for future flights as well as the offsetting of carbon emissions through certified projects, can be found on Finnair.com’s Push for change site.

7. Four Seasons opens North America’s highest situated hotel

On the upper floors of Philadelphia’s tallest building and 10th highest in the USA, the all-new Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia at Comcast Center is now open. The entire skyscraper and the hotel interiors have been designed by world-renowned architect Norman Foster. Inside, artistic director Jeff Leatham has created stunning floral art, with his designs being found throughout the property. The hotel, which is located between the building’s 48th and 60th storeys, has 180 rooms and 39 suites, which all boasts unobstructed floor-to-ceiling city views. Guests are welcomed upon entry to their guest room by musician, record producer and visual artist Brian Eno’s soundscapes, created exclusively for the hotel. The hotel’s 57th floor is a haven of health and wellness, and includes an enormous indoor pool that “spills” into the sky, a gym, and a seven-treatment room spa. The hotel also features a fine dining venue led by Michelin starred Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten on the 59th floor and an American oyster bar which opens to the street.

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61. FOUR SEASONS HOTEL PHILADELPHIA, USA

8. Air Canada reveals new A220 cabins and routes

Air Canada‘s first Airbus A220-300, built at Airbus Canada’s Mirabel facility, is scheduled to be delivered later this year. To be initially deployed from Montreal and Toronto on existing Canadian and transborder routes, the A220-300 will open new markets such as the Montreal–Seattle and Toronto–San Jose flights. The two-class cabin will have a total of 137 seats: 12 in a 2×2 configuration in Business Class and 125 in a 3×2 layout for Economy passengers. Larger windows, full-colour LED ambient mood lighting, high ceilings, and extra storage make the A220-300 an unparalleled aircraft in the narrow-body segment. Every seat features a Panasonic eX1 in-flight entertainment system with content available in 15 languages and featuring more than 1,000 hours of high-quality entertainment. The A220 will come equipped with satellite based high speed connectivity for Wi-Fi access. The A220 will also further Air Canada’s environmental commitment, with the innovative Pratt & Whitney PW1500G geared turbofan engines, and is also the quietest aircraft in its category thanks to its new technologies.

Air Canada A220

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Air Canada A220

9. Aman offers a chance to book a room with a Picasso

One of the world’s most exclusive hotels, Aman Sveti Stefan in Montenegro, is running a one-of-a-kind exhibition displaying works by Picasso, Chagall and Miró. Consisting of original works by Picasso, Chagall and Miró, more than 60 original lithographs are on display in Villa Miločer on the mainland, in the Pasticceria and Cigar Room on the island’s Piazza, and within Arva, the island’s elegant Italian restaurant. Works include Picasso’s intriguing ‘Deux Femmes’, Chagall’s poignant ‘Les Amoureux’ and Miró’s enigmatic ‘Le Lezard aux Plumes d’Or’ series. This exhibition was curated to complement the spaces in which they are situated, and will be on show to the Sveti Stefan guests only. The artworks are on show to Aman Sveti Stefan guests alone, enhancing the already rarefied atmosphere of this exclusive destination. With its pink sandy beaches, 15th-century island village, 1930s mainland estate and sublime spa, Aman Sveti Stefan is widely considered a masterpiece in the hotel industry. The hotel has just 58 rooms and suites, with staff outnumbering guests by a factor of three, so those staying can be guaranteed an up-close-and-personal viewing experience at the exhibition.

Aman Sveti Stefan