Red Centre turns green

11 March 2010 Recent rain in Alice Springs has seen Australia's Red Centre turn green as the desert bursts to life with new life and vegetation, making it an ideal time to visit.

Save 60 percent on high speed rail

11 March 2010 Rail Plus has launched discounts of up to 60 percent off normal rates on high-speed TGV trains servicing popular European cities.

Etihad hits fashion high

11 March 2010 Etihad Airways has expanded its support of Australian culture with a new partner sponsorship for the upcoming 2010 L’Oréal Melbourne Fashion Festival.

Huge savings on Ireland

11 March 2010 Tempo Holidays has launched a new promotion that slashes 25 percent off companion fares on its Ireland program.

South African tourism boss named for UN role

11 March 2010 Popular South African government minister and former tourism chief, Marthinus van Schalkwyk, has been nominated for a position to head the United Nations' climate team.

Greyhound gets down and dirty

10 March 2010 Greyhound Australia is getting involved with one of North Queensland’s premier events with special deals to attend Julia Creek’s renowned ‘Dirt and Dust Festival’.

Venture signs on to Explore

10 March 2010 Adelaide-based Venture Holidays has signed an agreement to sell one of the world’s biggest and best known adventure travel operators - Explore Worldwide.

Travelodge launches Easter Specials

10 March 2010 Travellers planning to visit Sydney for the Easter Show, will be pleased to know that Travelodge hotels is offering great value packages including accommodation and other extras.

Adventure World stands by Explore

10 March 2010 Adventure World is committed to servicing Explore Worldwide bookings made through its brochures.

Travelscene launches Handmade Holidays

10 March 2010 Travelscene American Express has launched a new wholesale brand aimed at Australians looking to get beyond the tourist traps to discover the “real” esssence of their holiday destination.

Sydney airport upgrades win support

9 March 2010 Long overdue upgrades at Sydney airport’s international terminal have been given a strong message of support from passengers, with more than 84 percent rating the facilities at seven or above on a 10-point scale.

Cox & Kings Australia adds Moneydirect

9 March 2010 Only days after its official launch celebrations, Cox & Kings has appointed Moneydirect as its preferred multi-channel payment processing solution for its rapidly expanding Australian operation.

QM2 to circle Australia in 2012

8 March 2010 Strong support from the local market and growing international recognition of Australia as a cruise destination has seen Cunard Line announce it will base its most famous ship, Queen Mary 2, in Australia for a short deployment in 2012.

Avalon Waterways offers savings for singles

8 March 2010 Avalon Waterways will waive single supplements on some of its most popular peak-season itineraries, giving solo travellers a chance to cruise the great rivers of Europe at a twin-share price.

TICA to gather industry leaders

8 March 2010 Riding on the back of its previous success, the Travel Industry Careers Association (TICA) is offering another opportunity for industry staffers and students considering a career in travel to get up close and personal with senior industry leaders as part of a ‘Speed Dating Event’ scheduled in Sydney on 23 March 2010.

Tempo incentives for Palm Atlantis

8 March 2010 Tempo Holidays has launched a new promotion offering agents the chance to win the ultimate five-star experience in Dubai.

Pacific Blue gets V8 power

8 March 2010 Pacific Blue has cemented its relationship with the New Zealand city of Hamilton, with a sponsorship of New Zealand’s sole round of the V8 Supercar Championship.

Asia Pacific tourism ‘much improved’

5 March 2010 Preliminary figures released by the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) are have been positively, with numbers showing the region has turned the corner and is moving back into growth.

Last seat deals from Travelmarvel

5 March 2010 Travelmarvel has released ‘last seat deals’ for some of its most popular Europe river cruising, Canada Alaska tour-cruise and Tasmania packages.

Go cruising for double World Rewards points

5 March 2010 Uniworld Boutique River Cruises is doubling World Rewards travel agent points for a limited time.

AIME names awards winners

4 March 2010 Organisers of Australia’s premier incentive and meetings event, AIME, have named four winners of exhibitor stand categories along with the recipients of two inaugural AIME awards which recognise the outstanding contributions of two meetings and incentives industry figures.

$1.8 million partnership to boost business events

4 March 2010 Federal Minister for Tourism, Martin Ferguson has welcomed a new $1.8 million three-year partnership developed to boost the business events sector for Australia.

New convention centre a must for Sydney

4 March 2010 The success of the recent AIME conference in Melbourne has highlighted the need for Sydney to develop a new world-class Conventions and Exhibition Centre.

Etihad launches DMC

4 March 2010 Etihad Airways is expanding the range of services it offers travellers with the launch of its new destination management company – Hala Abu Dhabi.

Jets scrambled over London

4 March 2010 Terror fears have again been pushed onto the front page overnight with two Royal Air Force fighter jets scrambled in response to an alleged attempt to force access into an airliner cockpit.

Viva Macau offers two for one

3 March 2010 Macau-based airline, Viva Macau is offering a special deal that will take passengers to two destinations for the price of one.

LAN resumes Santiago flights

3 March 2010 LAN Airlines has recommenced restricted domestic and international flight operations at the Santiago airport in the wake of the recent earthquake.

Hawaiian Airlines launches winter specials

3 March 2010 Hawaiian Airlines has released a hot new fare for Australian travellers looking to escape the coming winter and chill out in Hawaii.

John Borghetti flies Virgin

2 March 2010 In what must be a nightmare for Qantas, Virgin Blue has announced John Borghetti as its new chief executive and managing director.

Tourism Australia increases AIME presence

2 March 2010 Tourism Australia has increased its presence at AIME this year as it looks to market Australia’s business events capabilities and assist in returning the sector to growth in 2010.

AIME 2010 biggest ever

1 March 2010 Australia’s premier meetings and incentives event, AIME, has seen its biggest ever year with more than 800 sellers and 500 international buyers attending the event.

Travelscene signs with Sabre Pacific

1 March 2010 Travelscene American Express has signed an agreement securing Sabre Pacific as the group’s preferred GDS partner.

Qantas flies new Airbus A330-200

1 March 2010 Qantas’ second new A330-200 aircraft has commenced its first commercial service between Sydney and Melbourne as QF415.

Have your say on TCF

26 February 2010 Travel agents, consumers and other interested parties are being given the opportunity to have their say on consumer protection regulation of travel and travel related services.

25 percent slashed from Dubai stopover

25 February 2010 Tempo Holidays has launched a super-special for its two-night Dubai Stopover package, which cuts 25 percent off the cost at the four-star Avenue Hotel.

Questions asked about Qantas carbon plan

25 February 2010 Qantas has come under fire from Liberal Senator Sue Boyce, who is asking questions about the airline’s carbon offset program.

Abu Dhabi records double-digit growth

25 February, 2010 Abu Dhabi Airports Company has released its January 2010 traffic report for Abu Dhabi International Airport, which shows the total number of passengers travelling through the airport grew by 11.2 percent over the same month last year.

Bentours launches new Russia and Lapland products

24 February 2010 Bentours has set sail with a range of unique land and cruise experiences from its 2010 brochure including a 23-day exploration of Russia and Lapland.

Sea World cuts rates for families

24 February 2010 Sea World Resort and Water Park has launched a new range of family-friendly specials with free nights and complimentary bonuses.

Switzerland brings roadshow down under

24 February 2010 Switzerland Tourism, Swiss Travel System and Rail Europe will be touring Australia and New Zealand next month with a 10 city roadshow planned to promote Switzerland as a travel destination.

Queensland continues airport growth

24 February 2010 Three of Queensland’s major regional airports are reporting ongoing positive passenger numbers, with the latest figures showing growth continuing into the early months of 2010.

Aussies beat path to South America

23 February 2010 A dramatic spike in interest for travel to South America has seen STA Travel launch a range of new deals and packages.

New Passion Play release for independent travel

23 February 2010 With the opening of one of the world’s rarest and most amazing theatrical productions only months away, Albatross Travel Group has released a new three-day Passion Play tour package that has been designed specifically for independent travellers.

Corporate booking windows growing

23 February 2010 Further signs of recovery are reflecting in the latest booking patterns for corporate travelers which shows booking windows have stretched as corporates plan further in advance.

Greyhound Australia offers new Mates Rates

23 February 2010 Greyhound Australia has relaunched its popular Mates Rates deals, with more seats and routes available than ever before.

OETG pushes 1ndependence

22 February 2010 Orient Express Travel Group’s buying group for independent agents - 1ndependence - is being expanded to include a centralised hotline for sales and ticketing enquiries.

Queen Victoria turns pink for charity

22 February 2010 Cunard’s superliner, Queen Victoria, made history in Sydney on Friday night when she was illuminated in pink in a world-first designed to raise awareness for breast cancer research.

Cathay and LAN named best for wines

22 February 2010 Cathay Pacific and LAN Airline’s inflight wine list has been recognised as the world’s leading ‘Cellars in the Sky’ by an international jury, which ranked the airline’s business class wine lists as number one and two in the world.

Bali visa under fire

19 February 2010 Bali tourism leaders have asked for improvements to immigration procedures at the island’s major gateway, Ngurah Rai international airport, following growing numbers of complaints from travellers frustrated by the delays and lack of information.

Qantas cuts back first class for economy

19 February 2010 Declining demand for its first class seats has seen Qantas drop the premium cabin on all flights except its A380 services to London and the US.

Qantas flight aborts after wheels stuck

18 February 2010 Qantas has more questions to answer following another incident involving its Airbus A330 fleet.

Eurostar reports Aussie passenger growth

18 February 2010 Eurostar has reported a seven per cent increase in its 2009 Australian passenger numbers, compared to the previous year.

Rail Plus offers French savings

18 February 2010 Rail Plus is cutting the price of its France flexi-rail pass by 25 percent, for passes purchased by 29 March.

PATA refreshes website

17 February 2010 PATA has launched a new-look website with improved content and functionality.

Hertz adds fun and prestige collections

17 February 2010 Hertz Australia has announced a major expansion of its national car rental fleet, with the introduction of new Prestige Collection and Fun Collections to its inventory.

Sabre Pacific signs nine new airlines

17 February 2010 Sabre Pacific has added nine new airlines to its NetCheck search list, increasing the list of participating carriers agents can compare, shop and sell in the MySabre screen.

Delays force Air NZ staff cut back

16 February 2010 Moer than 18 months of delays in the delivery of Royal New Zealand Air Force C130 aircraft for major upgrade work, has seen Air New Zealand’s Belnheim-based engineering subsidiary, Safe Air, announce plans to reduce its workforce by around 100 positions.

HWT cruises through awards

16 February 2010 Harvey World Travel franchisees and managers held their annual national conference last week, aboard P&O’s Pacific Dawn cruise ship.

Vale Pamela Scott

15 February 2010 Long term Australia-based tourism industry member, Pamela Scott, has died after a short illness.

Tempo welcomes Etihad increase

15 February 2010 Tempo Holidays, has welcomed the announcement of additional flights being granted to Etihad, which will see the airline increase its capacity between Australia and Abu Dhabi.

Prices down product up for APT China-Vietnam

15 February 2010 Grwoing demand has seen APT add new products and cut prices on its latest China Vietnam 2010 brochure, which carries lower prices than the original brochure as well as new hotels.

Emirates launches World Cup packages

15 February 2010 With only four months until kick off, Emirates has launched a new range of 2010 FIFA World Cup travel packages.

FCm targets Asia for growth

12 February 2010 FCm Travel Solutions will target Asia as its key growth driver over the next three years.

Bentours prices cut 15 percent

11 February 2010 Prices on Bentours packages have dropped by up to 15 percent following the group’s recent acquisition by Cox & Kings Australia.

Nile in Style most popular

12 February 2010 Nile River is back in high demand with Tempo Holidays 10-day ‘Nile in Style’ now the company’s biggest selling Egypt package.

SIM cuts mobile costs for China

11 February 2010 Mobile phone roaming costs are set to reduce with global roaming mobile phone service, TravelSIM, launching its new product for China.

Falls Creek offers Snow rewards

11 February 2010 A new ‘Frequent Falls’ loyalty program for skiers at Victoria’s Falls Creek offers members access to cheaper lift passes and other savings.

Big deals on South America snow playgrounds

10 February 2010 Skimax is forecasting a busy season of ski for South America, as Australians begin to embrace the uncrowded slopes and exceptional value.

Tasmanian Convention Bureau appoints new CEO

11 February 2010 Tasmania’s peak marketing body for business events, the Tasmanian Convention Bureau, has a new chief executive with Stuart Nettlefold stepping into the role.

Cook Island escapes

10 February 2010 Coral Seas is celebrating the new direct flights from Sydney to Rarotonga in the Cook Islands with a range of five-night air and accommodation packages which are priced from $1229 per person.

PayPal joins webjet for Valentine deal

10 February 2010 PayPal has joined forces with online booking engine, webjet.com.au to promote a special deal on international flights.

South Australia secures world convention

10 February 2010 Adelaide Convention Tourism Authority (ACTA) has been awarded hosting rights for a major convention which is tipped to bring more than 3000 delegates to the state.

TMS expands academy into China

10 February 2010 Travel management Services is expanding its ‘TMS Academy’ executive training concept into China.

Thailand for less

10 February 2010 Travel Indochina has launched its 2010 Thailand Handmade Holidays brochure with significant price cuts across all products.

New brochures for NT

10 February 2010 Northern Territory wholesaler, Territory Discoveries, has launched its 2010-11 brochures covering products across the Top End and Red Centre.

First flight for new Boeing 747-8

9 February 2010 Boeing has completed the first test flight of its stretched version jumbo jet.

Australia remains strong in tough market

9 February 2010 New tourism figures released today show international visitors to Australia during 2009 remained steady despite the tough conditions for global tourism.

Seashells doubles holiday value

9 February 2010 Western Australia-based Seashells Hospitality Group is offering a special two-for-one promotion that will double holiday value.

Big savings on Tempo Egypt

9 February 2010 Tempo Holidays has launched a 20 percent discount on its six-day ‘Flavours of Cairo & the Western Desert’ package which combines highlight attractions with emerging experiences in the western desert.

Wyndham Resorts hosts Miss Universe finalists

8 February 2010 Wyndham Vacation Resorts Asia Pacific Dunsborough in Western Australia’s South West region has had the enviable task of hosting 24 West Australian finalists in the 2010 Miss Universe WA competition.

Interest in Zimbabwe grows

8 February 2010 Consumer confidence in travel to Zimbabwe is showing signs of returning according to African safari specialist, Bench International.

Sabre Returns launches 2010 with 10,000 points

8 February 2010 Sabre Pacific has launched a program offering Sabre Returns participants the chance to win 10,000 Sabre Returns points by making any hotel booking during February.

Arabian Adventures opens new Dubai centre

8 February 2010 Duabi-based Arabian Adventures destination management company has opened a brand new, state-of-the-art, operations centre at Dubai Investment Park.

Extraordinary new WA tourism strategy

8 February 2010 Western Australia is set to promote its tourism industry under a new brand, following the launch of the state’s latest strategic marketing campaign.

BA-QF agreement gets draft approval

5 February 2010 The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has given the Qantas and British Airways’ Joint Services Agreement interim approval with a draft determination proposing to grant authorisation of the service agreement for a further five years.

Convention Bureau delivers huge return to SA

5 February 2010 ACTA (Adelaide Convention Tourism Authority) has released its end of calendar year results, with the report showing events and conventions operating well above forecast returns.

Sno'n'Ski signs on for 2010 ski season

5 February 2010 Ski wholesaler Sno'n'Ski has signed preferred agreements as the exclusive preferred wholesaler for Ski Australia to Harvey World Travel and the Concorde Agency Network as well as Ski NZ, Canada, USA, Japan, and Europe.

Earlybirds for NZ ski

4 February 2010 Ski specialists, Value Tours, have released a range of earlybird seven-night self drive packages at a selection of ski resorts in New Zealand.

More snow for Falls Creek and Hotham

4 February 2010 Falls Creek and Hotham skiers are set for a winter bonus with more snowmaking equipment across the resorts.

Oman offers Arabian alternative for MICE

4 February 2010 Oman has ramped up its efforts to position the country as a MICE destination with an increased presence at Australia’s leading Meetings, Incentives and Conferences, Exhibitions event – AIME 2010.

Hong Kong specials from CX

3 February 2010 Cathay Pacific Holidays has released a five-day Hong Kong package for $999 per person twin share, plus air taxes of $220.

Fiji implements tourist VAT refund system

2 February 2010 Fiji has launched a new VAT tax-refund system for tourists that will allow them to claim back the 12 percent VAT from customs authorities on departure.

Britz adds new 4WD camper

2 February 2010 Britz is tackling the outdoor adventure market with the launch of its new Challenger 4WD camper.

Travel Corporation shuffles management team

1 February 2010 The Travel Corporation has made changes to the management structure of its Contiki Holidays and AAT Kings tams.

New round of European Earlybirds for Globus

1 February 2010 Globus has launched a new round of earlybird deals across all brands of European holidays, backing the sell-out success of its earlier deals with new savings of up to $2437 per person.

Corporates benefit with Sabre multi-traveller

1 February 2010 Sabre Pacific has expanded the functionality of its corporate online booking engine, Sabre Online, with the introduction of a new multi-traveller booking functionality.

More adventure product for 2010 Kimberley and NT

1 February 2010 Adventure, culture and food highlight the expanded range of products in the latest Broome & The Kimberley Holidays brochure.

AIME Awards open for 2010

29 January 2010 With the opening of Australia’s largest meetings and incentive industry event just weeks away, organizers have opened nominations for the AIME Awards 2010.

Cane toads leap closer to Kununurra

29 January 2010 Cane toads continue to make their march across northern Australia with two adult cane toads found at Mud Springs Aboriginal community, about 12 kilometres east of Kununurra in WA’s Kimberley region.

Marketing boost to help WA tourism recovery

29 January 2010 Western Australia’s tourism industry has been given a $1.35million marketing boost to reinvigorate the state’s short haul overseas markets.

Cosmos launches first Asia brochure

29 January 2010 Cosmos is moving beyond its Europe and America programs with the launch of its first ever brochure for Australian travellers, offering top-value holidays in China, Japan, India and South East Asia.

NZ creates central super-region

29 January 2010 Seven of New Zealand’s regional tourism offices have joined forces to create New Zealand’s newest tourism marketing campaign.

AAT Kings cuts 50 percent off short breaks

28 January 2010 For three weeks only, AAT Kings is offering three heavily discounted short breaks, with savings of up to 50 percent.

Discounts on Africa rail safaris

28 January 2010 Bench International has cut 10 percent off the cost of a range of departures aboard one of South Africa’s most famous rail safari experiences - Shongololo Express.

Holiday and travel expo returns for February

28 January 2010 Western Australia’s largest independent travel and holiday expo will again be hosted at the Burswood Entertainment Complex, with the event scheduled for 20 and 21 February.

Tourism Australia gets $20 million boost

27 January 2010 Australia’s tourism industry got a $20 million kick-start with Federal tourism minister, Martin Ferguson, allocating additional funds into the key marketing agency.

PWC to run TCF review

27 January 2010 After months of waiting, PricewaterhouseCoopers (PWC) has been confirmed as the company which will be responsible for conducting the review of the effectiveness of consumer protection measures within the travel industry.

Qantas and Tourism Australia to collaborate in Asia

27 January 2010 Qantas and Tourism Australia will launch three cooperative marketing campaigns throughout Asia in 2010 aimed at attracting visitors from across the region.

THAI flies aid to Haiti

27 January 2010 Thai Airways International has joined the humanitarian campaign to rebuild Haiti with confirmation it will fly a freighter laoded with rice that has been donated from the Thailand Government.

More World Cup accommodation available

22 January 2010 More accommodation for the World Cup in South Africa has become available with the launch of homestay packages from travel operators, Bundu and Tour Africa Now.

Skimax releases NZ earlybirds

22 January 2010 Ski wholesaler, Skimax, has launched its 2010 earlybird packages for New Zealand, with lead in prices under $500.

Greyhound adds Byron Bay shuttle

21 January 2010 Greyhound Australia is launching a new shuttle bus service this week between Brisbane and Byron Bay.

Bali refutes travel advice

21 January 2010 Bali Hotels Association has sought to clarify the most recent travel advice issued by the Australian Government which relates to the upcoming Balinese New Year (Nyepi) celebrations on 16 March.

Get cosy with Wolgan Valley valentine special

21 January 2010 Wolgan Valley Resort & Spa has released an exclusive two-night package at its luxurious bush retreat.

bmi relaunches shorthaul product with new routes

20 January 2010 British Midland International (bmi) has relaunched its short haul cabin product with new services, new cabins and new seats.

More SkyBus services for Melbourne

19 January 2010 Unprecedented demand for early morning departures has seen SkyBus increase its early morning schedule to Melbourne Airport.

Agents give positive outlook for 2010

19 January 2010 While 2009 was one of the most difficult years on record, TravelManagers chairman, Barry Mayo, said those agencies that invested in the future will now be well positioned for growth in the new year.

Cruise awards sell out

19 January 2010 In what is an undeniable testimony to the value of the cruise industry, the International Cruise Council Australasia’s annual 2009 awards night, to be held in Sydney this weekend, has completely sold out.

New private wine and dine for Spain

19 January 2010 Food, wine and excellent accommodation are included among new features of Tempo Holidays recently launched brochure for Spain.

Oman takes to the road

19 January 2010 Organisers of the upcoming Oman Tourism roadshow have been overwhelmed at the response by agents keen to learn more about the destination.

Fiji launches new marketing push

18 January 2010 Tourism Fiji has launched a new TV-based marketing campaign in an attempt to attract a record breaking 300,000 Australians to Fiji in 2010.

Major changes outlined for Tourism WA

15 January 2010 Strategic changes and a corporate restructure have seen long-time Tourism WA chief executive, Richard Muirhead, step down from his role to make way for broad changes that are expected to accompany the launch of the new tourism brand next month.

New baby for Monkey Mia

15 January 2010 Western Australia’s mid-west coast township of Monkey Mia has welcomed the arrival of its newest dolphin calf, ‘Khamun’.

OETG upgrades Express Ticketing

14 January 2010 Upgrades to Orient Express Travel Group’s Express Ticketing system will see it issue tickets faster and more efficiently from today.

Camps are key to NT short breaks

14 January 2010 Tour operator and wholesaler, APT, says exclusive use of Kings Canyon Wilderness Lodge and Hawk Dreaming Wilderness Camp in Kakadu National Park are the drivers of its new Northern Territory Short Breaks 2010-11 brochure.

Jucy launches 300th campervan

14 January 2010 Car and campervan rental company, Jucy Rentals, continues to expand, with its 300th campervan joining the Australian fleet this month.

Creative offers star arrival in Bangkok

14 January 2010 Creative Holidays is offering a new service which will provide star treatment for its clients landing at Bangkok International Airport.

Helicopter transfers up during snow

13 January 2010 With record snow stalling ground transport, many UK businesses are turning to executive helicopters to get them around the gridlocked UK road network.

New scam hits tourism Samaritans

13 January 2010 A new Internet-based scam is doing the rounds at present with a new breed of low-life soliciting money but playing on the charity and generosity of friends.

WA ministers derailed over tourist train

13 January 2010 Tourism operators and the WA government have begun a battle over the closure of weekend rail services during the busy holiday season.

Creative Holidays increases UK-Europe commission

13 January 2010 Creative Holidays is providing a huge incentive for Australian travel agents selling its European and United Kingdom programs, with a 15 percent commission on bookings.

Save on Botswana safari

12 January 2010 Bench International is offering savings of $550 per person in a 'stay-three-pay-two' deal at the four-star Stanleys Camp, which borders the southern section of Moremi National Park in Botswana.

Greyhound extends Darwin terminal

12 January 2010 A thriving tourism industry and increased demand for services has led Greyhound Australia to extend the opening hours of its Darwin terminal.

Big savings on Europe walks and cycling

11 January 2010 Adventure World has released its latest Headwater brochure featuring walking and cycling tours of Europe, along with savings of up to $500 per couple on selected itineraries.

Cruise Express staff escape plane crash

11 January 2010 Two Cruise Express staff have had a lucky escape after the light plane they were flying in clipped trees and crashed in the New South Wales Southern Highlands.

Employer confidence soars for 2010

11 January 2010 Australian employer confidence is returning quickly, with TMS Asia-Pacific chief executive, Andrew Chan, saying all indicators point towards recovery.

Cox & Kings Australia buys Bentours

11 January 2010 Cox and Kings Australia is continuing its rapid expansion with the purchase of Scandinavian and Eastern European specialist, Bentours.

Greyhound boosts regional tourism

8 January 2010 The coastal Queensland town of Emu Park is set for an influx of tourists after Greyhound Australia began operating a ‘detour service’ to the coastal haven this week on its popular Brisbane to Cairns travel route.

Big discounts on Canada motorhomes

8 January 2010 Adventure World is offering discounts of 15 percent on all motorhome bookings in Canada, for bookings confirmed by 31 January 2010.

Flight Centre renews with Travelport

7 January 2010 Global distribution system provider, Travelport, has re-signed as preferred GDS provider to Flight Centre Limited, with the new contract covering nine countries and territories including Australia, New Zealand, Canada, United Kingdom, Hong Kong, China, Singapore, UAE and South Africa.

Melting snow blamed for Eurostar stoppage

7 January 2010 Melting snow has been blamed for the stoppage of five high-speed Eurostar trains in the lead up to the busy European Christmas season.

Fiji launches summer sale

7 January 2010 Air Pacific has launched a new ‘Hot Summer’ promotion, with discounted return fares from Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne to Nadi.

Fiji sets new visitor record

6 January 2010 Fiji continues to re-establish its Australian visitor arrivals with the island destination attracting a record-smashing 27,500 Australians in October.

Bench enhances Egypt

5 January 2010 Wholesaler, Bench International has enhanced its Egypt product with a choice of short extensions to its range of Nile cruising options and archaeological journeys.

V Australia joins Australian Open

5 January 2010 V Australia has signed a major sponsorship agreement with Australia’s premier tennis events, which will see the airline become the official airline of the Australian Open and the Brisbane International.

TSA takes swift action on security

5 January 2010 The largest international association of business travel professionals, National Business Travel Association (NBTA), has applauded the US Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and Homeland Security for quickly implementing new regulations to protect the United States and travellers, following the recent inflight bombing attempt.

Explore Holidays takes to the streets

4 January 2010 Explore Holidays lived out their new brochure product recently, when it loaded a group of lucky Flight Centre agents into iconic Citroen 2CVs for a whirlwind tour of Paris.

Last week for THAI Europe savings

4 January 2010 Thai Airways 2010 Early Bird fares are set to close next week.

Dates set for TRENZ 2010

30 December New Zealand’s tourism industry association, TIA, has confirmed the nation’s major tourism event, Tourism Rendezvous New Zealand (TRENZ) will again be held in Auckland from 24-27 May 2010.

No Garuda cuts for Explore

30 December Explore Holidays has committed to pay full eight percent airline commissions for its wholesale bookings, despite Garuda Indonesia’s recent decision to scale back its agent payments.

Hertz adds Commodore sports wagon

29 December Hertz has commenced a major expansion of its Australian car rental fleet with the introduction of the stylish new Holden Commodore SV6 Sportwagon.

Second B787 completes test flight

24 December The second Boeing 787 Dreamliner has completed its first flight.

Snow continues to dump on Whistler

24 December Whistler/Blackcomb continue their record-breaking snowfalls, clocking up a massive 690 centimetres of cumulative snowfalls so far this winter.

Boeing 787 Dreamliner completes first flight

22 December Boeing engineers have given the thumbs up to the first test flight of the company’s all-new Boeing 787 Dreamliner, which completed its inaugural flight last week.

South Africa ready for World Cup

21 December South Africa can confidently say that it has enough accommodation for the 2010 FIFA Soccer World Cup, according to Minister of Tourism, Marthinus van Schalkwyk.

Tempo launches new Paris program

18 December The popularity of Paris has prompted Tempo Holidays to release two new packages for the French capital.

Cut price business class fares to Europe

18 December Australian discount flight site, Direct Flights, has slashed business class fares to Europe, with prices starting from $4054 return, including taxes.

New strategy to drive state and national tourism

17 December Australia’s tourism industry has welcomed the announcement of a comprehensive national strategy to guide the Australian tourism industry.

Auckland celebrates three-week festival of sailing

17 December Auckland will welcome three prestigious international sailing events to the Waitemata Harbour in March 2010, as the city celebrates the Auckland Festival of Sail.

Fiji named best value overseas destination

17 December After another year of political issues, floods and a recent cyclone, Fiji has welcomed some good news, with the islands named the best value overseas destination for Australians.

Explore adds Disney Magic

16 December Explore Holidays has added the magic of Disney into a new range of fully-escorted European coach tours for 2010.

Fiji reports minimal cyclone damage

15 December Fiji has survived its latest tourism speed-bump with a cyclone brushing across the islands yesterday.

Bonus car hire for Europe

15 December Creative Holidays and Etihad Airways have released an exclusive offer for packages to London, Manchester, Dublin and Paris, which includes a bonus eight days Alamo car hire.

Free admission for the Red Bull Air Race

15 December The WA government has secured a deal with Red Bull Air Race organisers that will ensure free admission to the 2010 and 2011 events in Perth.

Paris gets Tempo boost

14 December Tempo Holidays has added new four and six day packages to its Paris and France program.

Velocity expands footprint into Pacific

14 December Pacific Blue is expanding its Velocity Rewards loyalty program membership base to include seven new Pacific countries.

Tourism Queensland farewells Southall

14 December After six months of lazing about in Queensland, world-famous island caretaker, Ben Southall, is heading home.

New team to promote Kimberley event

14 December One of Northwest Australia’s leading events has received a major enhancement following the signing of a leading event management team to manage the Argyle Diamonds Ord Valley Muster.

New Britain and Ireland program for Explore Holidays

11 December Explore Holidays has expanded its 2010 Britain and Ireland program with a host of new experiential content including Legoland Windsor, Walking Tours of London, The Edinburgh Dungeon and more.

Gold Coast gets spending boost

11 December International visitors continue to spend, with the lastest tourism figures showing overseas holidaymakers spend more than $1.042 billion in the 12 months from September 2008 to September 2009. The figure is $94 million more than the previous 12 months, according to Tourism Research Australia.

Visa changes needed to boost backpacker tourism

11 December New research exploring strategies to boost backpacker tourism in Australia has recommended the introduction of new short-term working holiday visas for international students on completion of their studies.

Maui launches platinum model

10 December Maui has launched a new premium campervan product, under its Maui Platinum brand.

Celebrate Japan’s Cherry Blossoms with Cosmos

10 December Cosmos is offering a chance to experience Japan during the full spectacle of its cherry blossom season, with three departures of its popular Journey Through Japan tour timed to capture the best of the spring blooms.

Mantra has legal win over online pirates

10 December Australia’s largest accommodation providers Mantra Group, has claimed a win in a legal action against an internet booking website and web designer it claims was misleading consumers.

Emirates to fly to Amsterdam

8 December Emirates is expanding again with Amsterdam named as the airline’s 23rd European destination.

Explore launches new France and Italy brochures

8 December Explore Holidays has added a local flavour to its France and Italy program with a new Vespa tour through the Chianti wine region, and a host of other exciting new product for 2010.

Thai establishes global standard for dining

7 December Thai Airways International is standardising the taste and quality of its inflight meals to ensure consistency for passenger experiences and indulge fussy eaters.

Richard Cranmer retires from ICCA Board

8 December After 13 years in various roles, Richard Cranmer has retired from the board of the International Cruise Council Australasia.

Tempo serves up combos

7 December Tempo Holidays is launching its new British Ireland brochure with deals on London-Paris and Scotland-Ireland combinations.

AirAsia most popular Facebook airline

7 December AirAsia is now the most popular airline in the world on giant social networking site, Facebook, with the airline surpassing all other airlines and transport companies, in terms of fan numbers.

United Airline shows heart for giving

3 December United Airlines has shown is corporate citizenship with a charity initiative that has brought great joy into the lives of more than 50 disadvantaged children.

Rowing Australia partners with travel group

2 December Australia’s peak sporting organisation for rowing, Rowing Australia, has appointed Stage and Screen as its sole travel management provider.

Abu Dhabi gets meeting boost

1 December The Arabian Gulf emirate of Abu Dhabi has received a major business tourism boost with three new key events slated for next year.

Want ice with that?

1 December Three Australian entrepreneurs are currently en route to Dunedin where an iceberg is floating off New Zealand’s South Island.

NZ film makers get a Big Break

1 December A new tourism promotion is encouraging aspiring film-makers to shoot a short film that will capture the essence of 100% Pure New Zealand and showcase the heart of the nation.

Explore Holidays launches new cycle program

30 November Explore Holidays has launched a new range of two-wheel cycling experiences around the world, including a thrilling ride down a volcano in Hawaii.

Indigenous tourism moves into mainstream

30 November Tourism Council WA (TCWA) has reached an important and historic milestone in advancing Indigenous tourism in Western Australia with a partnership agreement to help migrate Aboriginal enterprises into mainstream tourism.

Aucklanders sparkle city skyline

30 November The results of SKYCITY’s ‘Light me up! Auckland’s Choice to Light Sky Tower this Festive Season’ have been overwhelmed with a preference to light to landmark tower like a giant Christmas tree.

Tourists seeking unique experiences

30 November Unique holiday experiences and ‘bragging rights’ dominate current tourism trends, according to studies by a researcher from The University of Queensland.

Big savings on South America

30 November Adventure World has released highly competitive pricing on a range of its most popular tours in South America.

APT makes a point of Cape York

30 November APT is reporting strong pre-season interest in Queensland’s Cape York, as holidaymakers seek one of Australia’s “once-in-a-lifetime” experiences.

Airport master plan gets go ahead

27 November Westralia Airports Corporation is celebrating the approval of its 2009 Master Plan for Perth Airport which will see a major transformation of the existing site over the next 20 years.

RACT Travelworld backs cruise council

27 November Tasmania’s RACT Travelworld has become the first travel agency group to achieve International Cruise Council Australasia accreditation across all staff.

ITB Berlin focuses on social media

27 November Managers of ITB Berlin have committed to next generation social networking and will become more active with a range of new online activities and mobile communications.

Green Queensland plan finds support

26 November Ecotourism Australia has thrown its support behind the Queensland Premier, Anna Bligh’s plan to establish eco-tourism holiday accommodation at seven protected areas around Queensland.

Changi Airport to grow partners

26 November Changi Airport Group (CAG) has launched a new growth initiative to attract more strategic partners.

Hawaiian thinks pink for charity

26 November Hawaiian Airlines and Sydney’s Royal Hospital for Women Foundation recently hosted the Pink Hawaii Celebrity Fashion show in support of the NSW Breast Centre.

Early Paris arrival for Emirates A380

25 November Emirates has brought forward its scheduled A380 services to Paris by one month, with the massive superjumbo to commence its French operations from 29 December.

Australia’s sustainable best recognised

24 November Four of Australia’s best tourism operators have been recognised at Ecotourism Australia’s Global Eco 09 conference which was held in Alice Springs recently.

Whistler shatters snowfall records

24 November Canada’s largest ski resort area, Whistler has already surpassed the record for November snowfall with a week still to go.

ATEC showcases indigenous tourism champions

23 November Indigenous tourism operators will get a boost with the launch of a new tourism industry event next month in Sydney.

Date named for Erebus and Perpignan Memorial Service

23 November Air New Zealand has confirmed details of the memorial service for victims and families of the Erebus and Perpignan air crashes.

NZ sees second month of growth

23 November New Zealand’s tourism industry is reporting its first real signs of recovery with the Australian market boosting visitor numbers.

Bali wins convention award

23 November Bali has taken another major step forward with the BaliInternational Convention Centre being named ‘Best Convention Hall’ in Indonesia’s MICE Awards 2009.

Tony Fernandez named Orient Aviation’s best

23 November AirAsia Group chief executive, Tony Fernandes, has received another major award after being named ‘Orient Aviation Person of the Year’ for 2009.

Aussies flock to New Caledonia

20 November With Fiji still struggling to find its feet, New Caledonia Tourism (NCT) Australia is reporting record growth for Australian tourist arrivals with visitor numbers up more than 30 percent.

Globus earlybirds sell out

20 November Response to the release of earlybird specials on the Globus 2010 Europe programs has been swift, with many of the offers selling out prior to the 15 December deadline, but there are still a few offers available with Avalon Waterways for those who act quickly.

GC rates high for Melbourne

19 November Despite a recent Victoria-based survey that showed Melbourne was ‘Australia’s most desirable lifestyle city’, it seems Melbournians are keen to head north for their fun, with more than 100,000 expected on the Gold Coast this summer.

Huge savings on one-way Tassie rentals

19 November Help Britz move some campervans in to Tasmania for the summer season and save heaps on rental costs.

Operators sought for new premium island hotel

19 November Western Australia’s Rottnest Island Authority is seeking proposals from the private sector to construct and operate a new high-level hotel on Rottnest Island.

Queenstown remains backpacker favourite

19 November Queenstown continues to rank highly with the Australian backpacker and adventure traveller market, with several thousand seeking advice and making enquiries during the Adventure Travel and Backpacker Expo in Sydney last week.

APT adds Siberia rail to Russia & Scandinavia

18 November The iconic ‘Golden Eagle’ trans-Siberian Express rail journey has been added to APT’s stand-alone Russia and Scandinavia brochure for 2010.

Travel Indochina launches all-inclusive China

18 November Australia-based wholesaler, Travel Indochina, has partnered with Pacific Delight to offer Australian travellers high quality, value-for-money, all-inclusive coach tours in China.

Tourism Ireland heads to TV

18 November Tourism Ireland has launched its first major TV campaign in more than seven years with a new creative concept developed by global agency, JWT.

Etihad Holidays adds Jordan deals

18 November Etihad Holidays has joined forces with the Jordan Tourism Board to promote a range of holidays in Amman, Aqaba, the Dead Sea and Petra.

Supersonic business jets: Fact or folly

17 November The dream of supersonic passenger flights has again be revived, with new plans for the manufacture of the world’s first supersonic business jet.

Travelscene AmEx showcase new future

16 November Last week’s Travelscene American Express Owners Managers Conference in Shanghai has announced major changes across the group, including a raft of initiatives from enhanced marketing to next generation technology.

New Toyko-Nagano monkey combo

16 November Travel Japan by H.I.S. is offering the opportunity to combine two of Japan’s most famous cities with the release of a new program twinning Tokyo with Nagano in the Japanese Alps.

Early snow in French Alps

16 November It's set to be a bumper season for European snow with the French Alps enjoying a huge dump of fresh snow over the weekend with well-known alpine resorts, such as Val d' Isere, turned white.

Soccer sees Wellington sell out

13 November A heavily promoted soccer match has seen flights to the New Zealand capital, Wellington, sell out.

CX Holidays adds Best of China

13 November Cathay Pacific Holidays has released a six-night Best of China package which visits Hong Kong, Beijing and Shanghai, priced from $2065 per person twin share.

Virgin backs Mardi Gras

12 November Sydney’s Mardi Gras has a new lease on life with Sir Richard Branson’s Virgin Blue Airlines Group signing a new sponsorship agreement making it the official airline for the event.

APT flies Golden Eagle with free air deals

12 November APT is offering free return airfares to Russia to mark the recent launch of APT’s first brochure for the Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Express, the world’s most famous rail journey.

Heavy snow signals early opening for Whistler

12 November Whistler Blackcomb will open its ski season this weekend – a full 12 days ahead of schedule, thanks to huge dumps of snow over recent weeks.

BA extends summer sale

12 November British Airways has extended its Summer Earlybird Fare offer through until 5 January to give more Australian travellers the chance to take advantage of the fares.

Eruption no concern for Reunion

12 November Air Austral has advised flights to Reunion Island will continue as usual following the recent volcanic eruption of ‘Piton de la Fournaise’ on the island.

Etihad named world’s best

11 November Etihad Airways has taken the top airline award at this year’s World Travel Awards (WTA), with the carrier named ‘World’s Leading Airline’ by more than 180,000 travel industry professionals from over 175 countries.

Mexicana joins Oneworld

11 November Mexicana has officially become part of oneworld, bringing Mexico and Central America's leading airline into the airline alliance.

Pacific Sun cruise cancelled

10 November Unavoidable delays to the ship’s dry-dock servicing have forced P&O Cruises to cancel Pacific Sun’s seven-night cruise from Brisbane which was due to depart this Saturday.

Save big on new Canada – Alaska deal

10 November Travelmarvel has launched a new promotion to save $1200 per couple or $600 per person on its 18-day ‘Rockies Marvel & Alaskan Cruise’ package.

Venture Holidays regains Australian brand

8 November One of Australia’s oldest wholesale brands, Venture holidays, has been restored to a nationwide brand, following the purchase of outstanding trademark rights.

Greyhound Australia named best

8 November Greyhound Australia has been voted Australia’s best transport company by international tourists and young travellers in the annual Golden Backpack Awards.

Perth increases shark spotters

8 November Midweek aerial shark patrols will continue along Perth’s beaches this summer following a State Government allowance that allocates an extra $206,000 to the Surf Life Saving Western Australia (SLSWA) Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter.

Immerse in Japan with new tour program

8 November Travel Japan by H.I.S. is offering travellers an ‘experiential’ Japan program with a difference, with the release of a new eight day ‘Get lost and escape’ tour of Tokyo and Kyoto.

Air fare deals for Tassie tour

6 November Travelmarvel has released discounted deals on return airfares to join its 10-day Grand Tasman coach tour of Tasmania.

V Australia cleared for Fiji

5 November V Australia has been granted approval to operate direct daily flights between Australia and Fiji in time for Christmas, following the decision handed down today by the International Air Services Commission.

Disney reaches Shanghai milestone

5 November Plans for a new Walt Disney theme park in the Pudong district of Shanghai have progressed further with approvals to proceed received from the relevant authorities of the central government of China.

Hawaiian offers free agent flights

5 November To celebrate its 80th birthday, Hawaiian Airlines has launched a new travel agent incentive with free flights.

Adventure World boosts Africa

5 November African wholesaler, Adventure World, has just released its most comprehensive Africa brochure in the 30 years of its operation.

DriveAway launches Europe earlybirds

4 November DriveAway Holidays has launched a new Peugeot Leasing Earlybird deal for travel to Europe in 2010.

Tempo increases Latin America program

4 November Tempo Holidays has added Guatemala to its 2010 Latin America brochure, expanding the program to 10 countries.

New site sells on price

4 November Yet another discount travel website has emerged with claims it will deliver the cheapest fares available.

Virgin shows off rock credentials

4 November The V Australia team has signed on for one of the world’s most enviable tasks – supporting Britney Spears on her Australian tour.

PATA shows cautious optimism

3 November The latest tourism data for the Asia pacific is showing positive signs, however key industry body, Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), said the figures should be treated with some caution.

Niseko snow plummets to freezing

3 November It’s shaping up to be a fabulous winter for skiing in Japan with the mercury dropping to minus 11 degrees Celsius, with more cold weather on the way.

ATEC slams UK tax hike

2 November The Australian Tourism Export Council (ATEC) has condemned a tax hike being imposed by the UK Government which will add between $100 and $200 to the price of a long-haul air ticket from London.

Creative upgrades Hawaiian holidays

2 November Creative Holidays has launched an enhanced variety of Hawaiian holidays as part of its new 2010 Hawaii brochure.

Melbourne wins low cost award

30 October Melbourne Airport has been named the ‘Low Cost Airport of the Year’ by the Centre for Asia Pacific Aviation (CAPA).

Fiji turns clean and green

30 October Fiji is highlighting its environmental credentials with the launch of a national low carbon travel and tourism sector initiative.

TravelManagers showcase keynote speakers

30 October With less than a month until its national conference, TravelManagers, has announced it’s speak line up.

New PATA structure reflects drive for change

30 October PATA has modified its operating structure to streamline the association’s wide range of services to members.

Low fares to ski Japan

30 October Australian discount travel agent, Direct Flights International, is offering new fares to Japan for the northern winter.

Earlybird deals for France

29 October French Travel Connection has brought forward the release of its 2010 brochure, taking advantage of generous new earlybird offers available across its range of French holidays.

Last days for Tempo Egypt sale

28 October Tempo Holidays has cut 40 percent off the price of its 13-day Total Egypt packages for next year, for bookings made before 31 October.

World Rewards relaunched

28 October Travel Corporation has re-launched its travel agent rewards program, World Rewards, with the chance to win a share in one million World Rewards Points.

Airline heads meet in Abu Dhabi

27 October Etihad Airways is to host the 18th Annual Conference of the International Association of Airline Internal Auditors (IAAIA) in the airline’s home base of Abu Dhabi.

QH launches new brochure range

27 October Qantas Holidays has launched its 2010/11 brochure range with 16 glossy brochures showcasing new products and new destinations.

Early bird special for slow European travel

26 October Walking and self-guided tour company, UTracks, has launched a five percent discount program for early bird bookings.

Tempo ventures into regional Oman

23 October Tempo Holidays is launching a new package to Salalah in the less-visited southwest region of Oman on the Arabian Sea.

Dolphin Discovery Centre gets new attraction

23 October Visitors to Bunbury’s Dolphin Discovery Centre in WA’s south west can now experience a new up close and personal encounter with marine life.

Globus gets earlybird rush

22 Octgober Recent European earlybird offers released by Globus prompted a sales surge with hundreds of sales in just 48 hours.

New Horizons expands Arabian product

22 October WA-based wholesaler New Horizons Holidays has added Oman and Abu Dhabi to its Middle Eastern product range, while enhancing its product suite for Dubai.

Tempo explores remote Latin America

22 October Tempo Holidays has launched a discounted program with the remote ‘Explora’ lodges in Latin America, that will allow clients to discover some of the region’s most exciting new attractions.

Fly free for NZ coach tours

21 October APT has launched a ‘fly free to New Zealand’ offer including air taxes to join October-to-March departures of its 18-day ‘Royal Tourer’ coach tour and 21-day ‘Great New Zealand Experience’ small group tour.

Virgin attacks union on safety claims

20 October Virgin Blue Airlines Group has come out fighting to defend claims the company is cutting back on its maintenance program.

Free flights to Broome

19 October APT Kimberley Wilderness Adventures is offering free return flights to Broome for travellers booking its 25-day ‘Breathtaking Kimberley Cruise and Tour’ package, or the 13-day ‘Kimberley Complete’ tour on select departures in April and May.

US ski deals for northern winter

19 October With the Australian dollar climbing above US$92 cents and airfares at historic lows, a North American ski holiday has become a lot more affordable.

NT moves into uNTouched Territory

16 October Tourism NT has teamed with Virgin blue to launch a promotion highlighting the NT’s pristine natural landscapes and unique experiences.

New touring program for AIME 2010

16 October Melbourne Convention and Visitors Bureau (MCVB) has added the Yarra Valley wine region to its AIME 2010 Pre-Touring Program for hosted buyers.

NZ highlights conference appeal

16 October The South Island city of Blenheim has launched a program to highlight its emerging reputation as a convention destination following the success of the recent Conventions and Incentives New Zealand (CINZ) conference.

Sydney filling for Christmas

16 October Metro Hotels group has sent a warning to holidaymakers looking for value-based accommodation in Sydney over Christmas, saying they need to book soon to secure the best priced rooms.

Dreamtime highlights business tourism value

15 October With Australia’s leading incentive travel event, Dreamtime, underway in Sydney, organisers are highlighting the enormous economic value of business tourism.

McEvoy to head Tourism Australia

15 October Tourism Australia has named South Australian Tourism Commission (SATC) chief executive, Andrew McEvoy, as its newest managing director.

China Southern doubles Australian departures

14 October China Southern Airlines is preparing to double its departures from Australia, with three nonstop flights per week from Melbourne to Guangzhou, and daily flights from Sydney in the peak Christmas/new year season.

Tempo launches Abu Dhabi stopovers

14 October Tempo Holidays has launched a new three-day Taste of Abu Dhabi package to coincide with the 1 November launch of the city’s new Traders Hotel.

Mantra Group wins regional tourism awards

13 October Mantra group has taken home tourism industry honours, winning two regional tourism awards for its deluxe properties.

TMCs trump online for corporate travel

13 October A recent study by American Express Business Travel has highlighted the strength of traditional travel management companies over their online counterparts.

West heads east for tourism roadshow

12 October More than 30 Western Australian tourism operators representing the state’s five tourism regions are heading to the east coast next month for a major road show event in Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane for the 10-12 November.

Service awards tip fast food, hotels, airlines and MCG

13 October Radisson, Sofitel and Best Western hotels, Qantas, Virgin Blue and the Melbourne Cricket Ground were among the top 20 nominations in a recent customer service industry poll.

New ‘women only’ cultural tours of Japan

13 October’ Travel Japan by H.I.S. has released new pricing for its innovative ‘women only’ nine-day exploration of Japanese culture.

Biennale of Sydney named event of year

12 October A judging panel of event industry experts, co-chaired by Johnny Allen and Sandy Hollway, has unanimously awarded Australian Event of the Year to the 16th Biennale of Sydney: Revolutions – Forms That Turn.

Free airfares for APT Tassie tour

12 October APT is offering free return airfares from Melbourne and Sydney to Launceston to join its 12-day Royal Tasman coach tour.

Greyhound halves kids fares

12 October Greyhound Australia has slashed its kids fares by 50 percent across its entire network, when accompanied by a fare-paying adult until the end of November.

Earthquakes create fear for Vanuatu

8 October Only weeks after the devastating tsunamis pounded Samoa, Vanuatu has also been rocked by a series of earthquakes registering up to a magnitude 7.8.

Creative uncovers Arabian bed nights

8 October Creative Holidays has launched its new 2010 Arabian Peninsula product range, boasting 15 new accommodation options in the brochure spanning Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Oman.

Tourism jobs stronger

7 October TMS Asia-Pacific’s Brisbane office is reporting a marked increase in its Southeast Queensland business activity, with general manager Australia/New Zealand, Ainslie Hunt, saying the result is a further indicator that the local economy is recovering.

Rugby Sevens for Hong Kong

6 October Cathay Pacific Holidays has launched a four-night package for the Hong Kong Rugby Sevens tournament on 26-28 March 2010.

Free stopovers on Canada-Alaska packages

6 October APT is offering a free stopover in Hong Kong, San Francisco, Los Angeles or Vancouver for pre- 30 November bookings on its Canada-Alaska tour-cruise packages next year.

Wendy Wu rewards agents

5 October Wendy Wu has launched her latest 2010 brochure collection with an agent incentive program that includes a Coles Myer gift voucher of up to $50 value when they make a Wendy Wu Tours booking between 1 October and 31 December.

Adventure World welcomes Fez Travel

2 October Adventure World has announced a new partnership with Turkey and Greece specialist operator, Fez Travel, which will see Fez products represented by the wholesale group.

AirAsia Indonesia flies free to Padang

2 October PT Indonesia AirAsia has jumped behind Padang to support its recovery with a free flight from Jakarta-Padang return this weekend.

Hawaiian returns to Pago Pago

2 October Hawaiian Airlines has dispatched a special relief flight from Honolulu to American Samoa taking in supplies of food, water, bedding and other necessities to help families affected by Wednesday’s tsunami.

Air NZ increases support to Samoa

2 October Air New Zealand’s additional flight between Auckland and Samoa, scheduled for tomorrow, has sold out within 24 hours of going on sale and has pushed management to consider demand for further capacity increases over the next week.

Air NZ adds more flights to Samoa

1 October Air New Zealand is adding an additional flight between Auckland and Samoa to assist the tsunami relief effort on Saturday.

Polynesian Blue offers Samoa support

1 October Samoa’s international airline, Polynesian Blue, has announced a range of assistance packages for families needing to travel to Samoa to support family members affected by the recent tsunami.

Aussies feared dead in Sumatera quake

1 October Just one day after the Pacific Islands of Samoa were flooded by a tsunami, killing more than 100 people, including four Australians, the Indonesian island of Sumatera has been struck by a massive earthquake.

Creative launches new online brochures

1 October Creative Holidays has taken its online brochures to a new level with video content, social media networking and links to hot deals, in what the company says is the new face of online brochures.

Air NZ provides tsunami relief

30 September Air New Zealand has sent basic supplies to Samoa to help those who lost belongings in the tsunami.

Coral Seas updates on Samoa

30 September Coral Seas has reported that a number of resorts they represent in Samoa have been affected by the recent earthquake and tsunami.

Tempo launches SIA Earlybirds to Britain & Europe

30 September Tempo Holidays has released a range of Singapore Airlines earlybird airfares for Britain and Europe, with fare levels starting from under $2000.

Big savings for European car leases

29 September European car leasing agency, globalCARS, has released an advance purchase deal with brand new Renault vehicles from $39 a day.

Expedia drops booking fees

29 September With online shoppers becoming increasingly cost-conscious, online travel company, Expedia, has joined others in dropping its fees for flight bookings.

Tempo launches SIA Earlybirds to Britain & Europe

29 September Tempo Holidays has released a range of Singapore Airlines earlybird airfares for Britain and Europe, with fare levels starting from under $2000.

Yahoo!7 buys totaltravel.com

29 September Online search engine and content collaborator, Yahoo!7 has acquired online travel content aggregator, totaltravel.com.

Abu Dhabi-Australia up 141 percent

29 September The latest passenger movements report for Abu Dhabi Airports Company shows the emirate continues to builds its visitor arrivals with a 12.4 percent increase in aircraft movements during August 2009, with Australian traffic more than doubling over the past year.

Perth wins global Digital Earth conference

28 September Perth has won the rights to be the host destination for the upcoming 7th International Symposium on Digital Earth (ISDE7), to be held in 2011.

Travelmarvel brand success

25 September Travelmarvelis celebrating the success of its brand relaunch, with the campaign driving new business and establishing an identity for the brand.

Free drive days for Europe

25 September The strengthening of the Australian dollar against the Euro has led to a massive surge in lease-car bookings by Australians holidaying in Europe.

New marina for WA coastal playground

25 September The coastal aquatic playground of Rockingham is one step closer to getting its new marina complex, with the state government today confirming it will proceed with the next phase of the Cape Peron marina project.

100% Pure NZ hits big screen

24 September Tourism New Zealand has launched a new digital campaign in Australia using Westfield’s all-new Digital Spectacular large format advertising e-billboard.

National tourism mentor program launched

24 September The Australian Tourism Export Council (ATEC) has launched launch a new guidance and development program aimed at boosting or kick-starting the careers of young workers and graduates employed in the Australian tourism industry.

Perisher prepares for late snow

24 September Resort management at Perisher are expecting a late blanketing of snow this weekend, with forecasts for up to 30 centimetres across the alps.

Dust plays havoc at Sydney airport

23 September Low visibility from dust haze combined with unstable, high winds is creating a nightmare for air traffic controllers and airlines operating from Sydney Airport.

Queenstown and Air NZ heat up summer

22 September Destination Queenstown and Air New Zealand have teamed up to launch a major advertising campaign to encourage more Australians to visit Queenstown this summer.

Tempo mixes Red Sea with Cairo

22September Tempo Holidays has launched a new Egypt package that combines the awe-inspiring sites of Cairo with a relaxing Red Sea resort stay, in its new seven-day ‘Flavours of Cairo and the Red Sea’ program.

APT unveils new team

22 September With APT expanding its business into a variety of new products and destinations, the company has restructured its management team to create three new business areas – International, Australian-New Zealand and marketing.

Aussies flock to NZ snow

22 September New Zealand's leading ski resorts and regions have reported bumper numbers of Australian skiers and riders.

Business Events Get a Medical at ITB Asia

21 September ITB Asia has announced its partner travel-trade event, Web in Travel, which will explore the changes and opportunities in the MICE sector in Asia.

Coffs gets a life

21 September Coffs Coast tourism office has signed up with Tourism Australia’s No Leave, No Life program with some fantastic deals to help Aussie workers win the work/life battle.

NZ voted best branding

21 September New Zealand has come out on top in a survey asking tourism organisations from around the world to rank the best destination brands.

Rail winning over air in Europe

21 September Despite the low cost of European air travel, train travel is winning a growing share of the market, with travellers embracing the convenience and time-savings made available by rail.

Tempo adds India specialists

21 September Tempo Holidays has expanded its agent services with the creation of a specialist team to service India.

Wildflowers bloom in WA

18 September WA’s south west is celebrating the spring wildflower season which is transforming the lush green forests and hills into a colorful tapestry of vivid blooms.

High jump for Tassie business tourism

18 September New tourism figures show Tasmanian’s leisure holidaymaker boom is expanding into the business market, with the latest visitor survey showing business events jumped 33 percent over the year.

Air NZ attracts Golden Oldies fans

18 September Four thousand rugby-mad fans from 150 teams around the world have already signed up for the Air New Zealand Golden Oldies World Rugby Festival in Sydney next year.

Earlybirds savings for France

18 September French Travel Connection is offering a $300 per person earlybird discount on its newly released 2010 signature tour, for bookings made by 31 December.

Dreamworld cuts costs on annual pass

17 September Gold Coast theme parks, Dreamworld and WhiteWater World, are offering a special deal for annual passes, with a 12 month unlimited pass cut to $99.

US shows big interest in Australia

17 September America’s top-selling Australian specialist travel agents, are showing record levels of interest in the destination, with registrations for a recent trade visit to Australia sold out.

Record arrivals for Cooks

17 September Cook Islands continues to enjoy surging growth in Australian arrivals, with visitation to the islands hitting an all-time record.

Daytrippers lead GC recovery

16 September Gold Coast tourism continues to struggle to maintain its room nights with the latest data reflecting a trend towards day trips, at the expense of longer stays.

Tasmania continues tourism boom

16 September Tasmania continues to grow its domestic tourist arrivals, with the state recording its fourth consecutive period of visitor growth.

Coastal hot spots growing visitors

16 September Australian travellers are heading to the beach for holidays, according figures released by one of Australia’s largest leisure accommodation providers, Mantra Group.

Room rates tumble to five year low

15 September The average price of a hotel room around the world fell by 17 percent in the first six months of 2009, according to the latest Hotels.com Hotel Price Index.

NT announces Muster dates

15 September Tourism NT has announced dates for its 2010 national roadshow – NT Muster.

Air down but not out

15 September The latest data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) shows international scheduled traffic for July continued to decline, but was improving on previous months.

Early snow blankets Canadian Rockies

14 September Early snowfalls across the Rockies have delighted Canadian ski resorts as they prepare to open for the 2009-10 season.

Circular Quay gets new cruise gangway

14 September 2009 With Australia about to begin its biggest ever cruise season, Circular Quay’s Overseas Passenger Terminal has made a timely opening of a new state-of-the-art gangway that will improve passenger safety and security.

Bumper winter for Queenstown

14 September New Zealand ski Mecca, Queenstown, has reported a bumper winter with guest arrivals up more than seven percent and total guests nights up 12 percent in July, compared to the same period last year.

New look for Albatross summer

11 September Albatross Travel Group have just released its latest range of escorted tours for the 2010 European Summer, backed with a $300 early bird discount on most tours, if booked by 31 December.

Spring snow packs Perisher

11 September Perisher ski fields have tipped the 2.8 metre mark of cumulative snowfalls since the start of the season, with a solid base remaining for spring skiing and boarding.

Melbourne up in tough market

11 September Despite tough economic conditions, Mebourne airport has reported its highest passenger movements on record for the month of August.

Airbus to service Antarctica

11 September Qantas and Melbourne-based Antarctica Sightseeing Flights have collaborated to operate the world’s first A380 flights to Antarctica.

Holiday homes under spotlight

11 September Local governments across Western Australia will be encouraged to establish approved holiday home registers and promote voluntary accreditation under new guidelines released by the state government.

Save $150 with Contiki and Virgin Atlantic

10 September Contiki are offering a $150 saving on selected winter tours of eight days or more when you book a discounted airfare with Virgin Atlantic to London.

South African airports prepare for World Cup

10 September South Africa is preparing its airports to receive an estimated half a million visitors for the FIFA 2010 World Cup, with improved check-in and self-service facilities through a $35m program to be implemented by aviation IT and communications specialist SITA.

Tourism survey highlights Swine Flu impact

10 September Jobs are under pressure in the Victorian tourism industry, with tourism employers feeling the pinch of a slump in domestic and international demand following the mid-year Swine Flu hysteria, according to the latest Victoria Tourism Industry Council (VTIC) survey.

Virgin to open Perth Lounge

9 September Virgin Blue has commenced plans to open its first airport lounge in WA, with a new 500-square metre “The Lounge” at Perth Airport.

‘Bula Tram’ heads to Adelaide

9 September With Pacific Blue’s inaugural direct services from Adelaide to Nadi due to commence within days, the airline and Tourism Fiji have combined resources to have one of Adelaide’s iconic tram’s converted into a very eye-catching version of Fiji’s famous thatched ‘Bula Bus’ – without the thatch.

Tempo combines Cairo and Sinai

9 September Tempo Holidays wraps up its new seven-day Flavours of Cairo & The Sinai package with time to relax on the Red Sea beach at Sharm El Sheikh.

$1 campervan deals

9 September DriveNow.com is offeing a great deal on relocation campervans and cars, with some being offered from as little as $1 per day.

Extra commission for travel agents

8 September Adventure World is increasing agents commission to 15 percent on a selected range of Cruise West’s 2010 sailings in Alaska if booked and paid in full by 20 November 2009.

No Doubt joins Singapore F1 line up

8 September Singapore’s inaugural F1 Rocks has secured another multi-award winning band to perfrom at the upcoming Formula One Grand Prix.

Etihad Holidays launches Eid breaks program

8 September Etihad Holidays, a division of Etihad Airways, has launched its Eid program, which offers special deals at more than 30 hotels in destinations in Africa, Europe, the Far East and Middle East. The packages combine accommodation, return Etihad Airways flights and more.

Kumuka launches new Europe Brochure

8 September Kumuka Worldwide has launched its new Winter/Summer Europe brochure for 2009-11, offering a range of new independent tour programs exploring the diverse sights of Europe with the security of high-quality and affordable tours.

Rev up top performers with a Ferrari adventure

7 September Corporations can now reward and motivate their top operators with a supercar experience that will see them driving not one, but four, bright red Ferraris along Australia’s newest driving route - Grand Pacific Drive south of Sydney.

Conference shines new light on north west

7 September Over 130 delegates converged on Karratha last week to attend an inaugural conference on the new ‘Warlu Way’ drive trail and to provide their input into a new vision for tourism in the Pilbara region.

TMS expands ‘academy’ to Sydney

7 September TMS Asia-Pacific has commenced the international roll-out of its ‘TMS Academy’ concept, following the successful implementation of the executive training school model in Singapore last month.

ANZAC tours explore Europe

4 September The Albatross Travel Group has launched a range of commemorative tours exploring some of the most famous Australian battlegrounds across Europe.

Formula 1 hits New Zealand

4 September Motoring enthusiasts should make a date to visit Wellington, New Zealand, before 1 November, with the national museum, Te Papa, hosting an exhibition of Formula One vehicles and history.

Etihad launches Race-to-Win agent incentive

3 September With Spring racing excitement growing towards fever pitch, Etihad Airways’ is offering Australian travel agents the chance to win the ultimate racing experience at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

ATEC Health and Wellness travel conference starts today

3 September The Australian Tourism Export Council kicked off Australia’s first-ever Health and Wellness Travel Conference today in Cairns.

PATA finds backing on new adventure

3 September PATA has received important backing from two influential organisations for its 2010 Adventure Travel and Responsible Tourism Conference and Mart, to be held in Nepal.

Tasmania launches new tourism brand

2 September Tasmania is reinvigorating its tourism image with the launch of a new marketing brand that highlights location and the state’s iconic experiences.

ANZAC tours explore Europe

2 September The Albatross Travel Group has launched a range of commemorative tours exploring some of the most famous Australian battlegrounds across Europe.

Captain Cook goes island hopping

2 September Captain Cook Cruises fleet of Rocket Ferry catamarans will offer a new range of Sydney Harbour travel options, with island-hopping itineraries operating throughout October.

Six Senses offers commission guarantee

1 September Six Senses Resorts & Spas has introduced a new commission guarantee for bona fide travel agencies making bookings at commissionable rates at its resorts.

QH expands Philippines product

31 August Qantas Holidays and Viva! Holidays have released its new Philippines product range, with an expanded line up of hotels and destinations.

Camper sales jump for KEA

31 August Holidaying at home is becoming increasingly popular, with KEA Campers reporting a 40 percent increase in its Australian fleet sales.

Greyhound launches NT adventure packages

31 August One of Australia’s most diverse and picturesque locations is now more accessible with Greyhound Australia launching a new adventure package in the Northern Territory.

South Africa to host Flight Centre in 2010

31 August South Africa has been confirmed as the official sponsors and hosts of the Flight Centre 2010 Global Gathering, an annual conference and awards presentation.

Hotel discounts for Singapore Grand Prix

31 August Discounts of up to 50 percent are available on a wide choice of hotels during Singapore’s Formula One race week in September.

Singapore chases business travellers

28 August The Singapore Tourism Board has launched a new campaign to encourage business and meetings executives to hold their events in Singapore.

QH adds extra commission on Hawaii

28 August Qantas Holidays has increased its commission payments on Hawaii packages.

Air demand still down but improving

28 August The latest data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) shows international scheduled traffic for July continued to decline, but was improving on previous months.

Hertz goes green in NZ

28 August Hertz New Zealand has enhanced its green credentials, securing an Enviro Bronze Accreditation from Qualmark, the official quality measurement agency of New Zealand’s tourism industry.

Perisher gets major powdering

27 August After a recent dry spell, Perisher has seen more than 22 centimetres of fresh powder across the resort slopes, with the mountain now boasting more than 250 centimetres for the season.

Trafalgar launches 2010 South America program

26 August Trafalgar has launched its South America 2010 program which features a collection of escorted holidays to Peru, Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Paraguay and Costa Rica.

TravelManagers launches new catalogue

26 August TravelManagers will release its second travel catalogue this week, which features an added bonus for personal travel managers.

Etihad ramps up premium check in

26 August Etihad’s loyalty program, Etihad Guest, has announced a partnership with leading global online network for business contacts, XING, that will further boost membership benefits.

OETG takes on new financial partner

25 August Orient Express Travel Group (OETG) is hoping to accelerate its business growth following a new business partnership and private equity investment by CTG Investments, led by Spiro Alysandratos of Consolidated Travel.

HWT conference to boost Fiji arrivals

25 August Fiji is likely to enjoy a sales boost following Harvey World Travel’s annual ‘frontliners’ conference which is currently being held on the islands.

Bench adds to Africa

25 August African wholesaler, Bench International, is expanding its product range in Southern and East Africa with new offers and a broadened product range.

Monkeying around in Japan

24 August Travel Japan by HIS has released two new packages combining stays in traditional Ryokan Inns in the spa town of Shibu Onsen, with visits to the famous red-faced snow monkeys which live in the area.

Time for hotels to focus

24 August Staying focused on the details is the key to minimising risks for hotel operators in the current economic climate, according to Barry Robinson, CEO and managing director of Wyndham Vacation Resorts Asia Pacific.

Trans-Tasman borders broken down

24 August A new trans-Tasman agreement is set to increase the rewards for New Zealand’s tourism industry.

ATEC sees Health and Wellness opportunity

24 August The Australian Tourism Export Council (ATEC) will be holding Australia’s first-ever Health and Wellness Travel Conference next month in Cairns.

Abu Dhabi arrivals jump 10 percent

23 August Abu Dhabi continues to defy the downturn, with the nation’s international airport reporting a huge jump in passenger arrivals for July.

Australia hits record high for NZ

22 August Visitors from Australia reached a record high in July, delivering nearly 16,000 more travellers from across the Tasman than the same month last year.

New national indigenous culture centre

21 August The Western Australian government has released details of the proposed national indigenous cultural centre, to be built along Perth’s picturesque Swan River waterfront.

Rail drives Tempo in India

21 August India’s new stylish Maharajas’ Express train is among the newest products featured in Tempo Holidays’ India Sri Lanka 2010 brochure, which will be distributed this week.

Wolgan Valley joins Creative Holidays indulgence range

21 August Creative Holidays has expanded its ‘Spoil Yourself’ hotel range, with the addition of Emirates’ luxurious eco-retreat - Wolgan Valley Resort & Spa.

Proposal opens new hope for Tasman travel

20 August A new trans-Tasman agreement is set to increase the rewards for New Zealand’s tourism industry.

Tulips bloom in southern highlands

20 August The Southern Highlands has begun the count down to its premier annual flower festival - Tulip Time.

Cairns opens Indigenous art fair

20 August Cairns Indigenous Art Fair (CIAF) opens today with a celebratory art party in the tropics at Tanks Arts Centre.

Qantas profit drops 87 percent

19 August Qantas has announced a profit before tax of $181 million in what group chief executive says is the toughest aviation environment in history, with the International Air Transport Association (IATA) forecasting global losses for the sector to top US$9 billion.

South Africa launches new specialist program

19 August With South Africa becoming more popular, the nation’s tourism office has launched new activities to help travel agents better understand the destination and how to sell it.

Major expansion plans for Disney

19 August Walt Disney executives have committed to a multi-billion dollar expansion of its Hong Kong and Los Angeles parks and resorts, with the addition of new themed lands and extensive makeovers of Disney’s landmark hotels.

NT tour company opens more Red Centre

18 August Tourism in the Red Centre has welcomed a new touring product that provides an immersive, hands-on engagement that gets travellers into the heart of the local attractions and experiences.

OETG signs with Qantas

17 August Orient Express Travel Group (OETG) has signed its first national agreement with Qantas Airways.

Norfolk Island kicks off roadshow tour

17 August Descendants of the famous Bounty mutineers are kicking off a three week tour of selected New South Wales travel agents to promote their holiday island home – Norfolk Island.

Positive profit at Jetset Travelworld

17 August Jetset Travelworld group has reported its first profit since the merger with Qantas Holidays last year, with the company announcing a $23.8 million pre-tax profit.

Japan offers ski bonus

17 August Travel Japan by H.I.S. is offering skiers a special bonus if they stay six nights or more at the five-star Okushiga Kogen Hotel in Shiga Kogen.

WA northwest gets funding boost

17 August Tourism across Western Australia’s Pilbara and Kimberley regions have received a major boost with mining giant, Rio Tinto, committing to continue its 10 year support of the north west.

Enterprise opens at Stansted

14 August The world’s largest car rental company - Enterprise Rent-A-Car - has expanded its network with the opening of a new branch at London’s Stansted Airport.

Stella adopts Mantra brand

14 August Stella Hospitality Group is preparing to change its name yet again, with the accommodation group set to brand itself as the Mantra Group.

Etihad to sponsor Sport Australia Hall of Fame

14 August Etihad Airways will consolidate its Australian event and sporting position with a new sponsorship deal for the Sport Australia Hall of Fame – a sporting association that recognises the outstanding sporting achievements of our greatest athletes.

Motor groups form new tourism force

13 August In what represents a major boost for both the New Zealand and Australian inbound and domestic tourism sectors, the New Zealand Automobile Association (NZAA) and Australian Motoring Services (AMS) have combined resources to form a trans-Tasman tourism partnership.

Swine flu not affecting travel plans

13 August Financial concerns are hurting the travel industry more than health fears and swine flu, according to a recent survey by NRMA Travel.

‘Tourism Futures’ looking brighter

12 August A new survey by Roy Morgan Research has confirmed tourism industry sentiment is holding.

Save $500 on Africa

12 August The Africa Safari Co is offering a double-deal on its popular 15-day ‘SA Surprise’ tour.

Flight Centre shares fly on profit decline

12 August Flight Centre shares took a 20 percent jump today, despite a profit outlook that showed a $100 million decline on 2008.

AirAsia puts 3 million seats on sale

11 August 2009 AirAsia has announced its latest online sale which is offering three million heavily discounted seats across its network.

Priority bookings open for AIME 2010

11 August Priority bookings for companies that participated in AIME 2009 are open until 4 September.

Three free nights in Cape Town

11 August African safari specialist, Bench International, is offering three nights free accommodation in Cape Town as a bonus for anyone booking a three-night stay at Lion Sands Private Game Reserve.

Skimax releases premium brand apartments

10 August Skimax has released a new range of accommodation options for the northern hemisphere.

Free night or free dinner with Hakuba

10 August Travel Japan by H.I.S. is offering the choice of one free night’s accommodation, or a free dinner, on all five-night packages booked before 30 September 2009 at any one of the 16 hotels it represents in the popular Hakuba Valley ski resort.

AIME launches new online campaign

10 August Organisers for AIME 2010 – the Asia-Pacific Incentives & Meetings Expo – have launched a new website for the event, with a new advertising campaign to be launched soon.

Tourism underpins New Zealand future

7 August International visitor arrivals to New Zealand may be down, but confidence in the land of the long white cloud remains high, with NZ prime minister and tourism minister, John Key, pledging “more money in the pot” for the nation’s tourism industry.

Free Jack the Ripper tour

7 August Tempo Holidays is offering a free Jack the Ripper tour in London with any Premium Tour booking made by 31 August.

Super low India fares from Emirates

6 August Emirates has unveiled special fares to ten exciting and diverse destinations throughout glorious India, with fares from $1261 return.

AirAsia launches more flights

6 August AirAsia has further enhances its connectivity with the announcement of more flights to Melbourne and a new international route from Bangkok to Taipei.

South Africa snaps top three spots

6 August South Africa continues to show its luxury credentials with Travel + Leisure’s Top 20 list of Lodges and Resorts in Africa and the Middle East, placing three South African properties at the top of its ranking.

TravelManagers set sales record

6 August Home-based consulting group, TravelManagers, has reported its highest sales volumes since commencing operations in Australia.

Bangkok Airways President visits accident site

5 August Captain Puttipong Prasattong-Osoth, the President of Bangkok Airways, has arrived in Samui for an on-site inspection of the damaged aircraft, which skidded off the runway at Ko Samui this morning. He will also visit the eight injured passengers at the Bangkok Samui Hospital.

Solomon Islands growth spurt

5 August The Solomon Islands is enjoying a surge of new visitor arrivals, with growth across business leisure and VFR sectors.

Budget Vietnam celebrates year one

5 August Ho Chi Minh City’s first and only international car rental group, Budget Car & Driver, is celebrating its first year of operation, with the appointment of a new general manager - Simon Fraser.

Tempo expands Spain

5 August Tempo Holidays cut prices on two coach tours of Spain by 10 percent, as the country continues to consolidate its value-for-money reputation.

Full commissions on new India program

4 August Despite difficult trading conditions, Wendy Wu Tours will continue to pay full commission on all inclusions for group tours in its new 2010 India brochure.

Delaware North buys up Australian Resorts

4 August Delaware North is extending its hospitality operations in Australia through the acquisition of five resorts currently operating under the Voyages brand.

Outback safari takes off

3 August More than 100 competitors from around the world will be spending the next seven days in Western Australia’s outback, participating in the gruelling Dakar-style rally - Australasian Safari.

Apollo increase motorhome fleet by 50 percent

3 August Strong forward bookings have led Apollo Motorhome Holidays to undertake a dramatic 50 percent increase in motorhome and campervan production from their Brisbane factory.

Skywest packages Broome and Ningaloo

3 August WA-based regional airline, Skywest, is offering an airfare deal that combines two of the state’s best coastal attractions.

Europcar expands Hunter Valley

3 August Europcar has strengthened its car rental presence in New South Wales Hunter Valley following the opening of three branches in the region.

Race to Hong Kong

3 August Cathay Pacific Holidays has released four-night packages for the Cathay Pacific International Races in Hong Kong, which will run from 10-13 December.

Air Pacific flies with Brave

31 July Air Pacific will take on a brand refresh later this year, following the appointment of a new advertising agency to manage the airline’s communications.

Tourism recovery in sight

31 July The Tourism Forecasting Committee (TFC) has released its latest forecasts for Australian tourism, showing a four percent decline in international visitor numbers in 2009, before returning to 3.1 percent growth in 2010.

Tahiti shows off dive appeal

31 July Tahiti is showing it has more to offer than romance and overwater bungalows with the launch of a new website dedicated to the islands’ spectacular underwater world.

Sabre launches online booking engine

31 July Global technology provider, Sabre Pacific, has launched the first version of its new leisure online booking engine - Sabre Explore.

Kumuka launches holiday payment plan

31 July Kumuka Worldwide has launched a new payment plan allowing travellers to pay their Kumuka tour in monthly instalments.

Last minute deals for agents

31 July Eastern Europe specialist, Beyond Travel is offering last minute discounts of up to $3500 per couple to travel agents, their families and friends, on an 18-day fully escorted tour of Slovenia and Croatia.

$1.3million airport upgrades for Pilbara

31 July The northwest WA township of Carnarvon has been given a boost to its tourism and transport infrastructure with a $1.3 million upgrade of its airport terminal.

Free days car leasing

30 July Special car leasing deals will see clients get up to seven days free car use and 50 percent off pick-up and drop-off fees with a new promotion being offered by European car leasing specialist, globalCARS.

MCEC wins national environmental award

30 July The Melbourne Convention Centre’s environmental features have been celebrated with the awarding of the prestigious Banksia Foundation Built Environment Award 2009.

WA’s biggest tourism trade show opens

29 July Tourism Western Australia has welcomed tourism operators to the state’s biggest trade showcase, the annual Western Australian Tourism Exchange (WATE).

Excell goes to Travelscene

29 July Brighton Travelworld has expanded its client network following the acquisition of boutique travel agency, Excell Travel & Cruise.

TravelManagers to host second national conference

29 July TravelManagers has the group will hold its second annual conference at The Marriott Resort & Spa in Surfers Paradise on 13-14 November.

New Australian head for Air Mauritius

27 July Air Mauritius has announced the appointment of its new manager for Australia, with Steven Palombo, stepping into the role.

Two-for-one airfares for WA wildflowers tour

27 July APT is offering a buy one airfare get one free deal for its Western Australian ‘Wildflower Wonderland’ tour between August and October.

Plans to send schoolies to Bali

27 July Unleashed Travel is expanding its ‘schoolies’ event packages beyond its traditional Fiji program to now include Bali.

Abu Dhabi grows arrivals

27 July It’s a case of ‘what downturn’ in Abu Dhabi, with the international airport reporting an 8.1 percent growth in air traffic arrivals over the first six months of 2009.

More Australians visiting Cooks

24 July The Cook Islands is enjoying a wave of new arrivals, as more Australians discover the South Pacific hideaway.

Indonesia recovering from bombs

24 July Jakarta is continuing to return to normal following the tragic bomb attacks on two of its leading hotels – JW Marriot and Hotel Ritz Carlton.

Rail Europe expands web presence

24 July Rail Europe is preparing to expand its web services following the signing of a purchase agreement with a major provider of e-commerce solutions for the travel sector.

Tax only fares for Tiger

24 July Tiger Airways has again stamped its reputation as Australia’s low fare airline with a new promotion offering free seats when clients pay the airport taxes.

Dreamworld commissions new Australia film

23 July Gold Coast theme park, Dreamworld, is restyling its film theatre attraction with the commissioning of a new Australian documentary to screen in its six-storey movie theatre.

Companions fly free to Canada

23 July Travelmarvel has released a companion-fly-free deal on six Canada Alaska tour-cruise packages next year.

Free air with NZ tour

23 July Value Tours is offering free return trans-Tasman airfares for travellers booking the company’s 17-day Best of New Zealand tour.

OETG streamlines naming

22 July Orient Express Travel Group has simplified its corporate structure by uniforming its trading identities, with the company changing its head license from Orient Express Travel Services P/L to Orient Express Travel Group P/L.

Tourism WA appoints new agency

22 July After an extensive nationwide tender process, Tourism Western Australia has announced that multi-award winning, Host Pty Ltd, will be its new advertising agency.

Fly free with APT NZ

22 July APT has launched a ‘fly free’ offer, including air taxes, as an incentive for bookings on September 2009 departures of its18-day Royal Tourer Premier coach tour in New Zealand.

TCF warns of ‘Sydney scam’

22 July Travel Compensation Fund (TCF) chief executive, Glen Wells, has sent a timely warning to travellers following reports of a travel agent trading illegally in Sydney.

Uluru and barrier reef named in natural wonders

22 July Two of Australia’s natural icons - Uluru and the Great Barrier Reef - have been named among a list of the world’s natural wonders.

Deborah Hutton new face for Huka

21 July Luxury New Zealand property group, The Huka Retreats has appointed Deborah Hutton as Australian brand Ambassador to its three sister properties: Huka Lodge, New Zealand, Grande Provence, South Africa and Dolphin Island, Fiji.

A&K nominated for world travel award

21 July Luxury travel company Abercrombie & Kent (A&K) has been nominated as Australasia’s Leading Luxury Tour Operator by the judging panel of the 16th Annual World Travel Awards.

Melbourne grows in tough times

21 July Melbourne Airport continues to build its passenger numbers, despite a difficult economic environment, with latest figures showing a 2.1 percent growth over the financial year.

Singapore to host night grand prix

21 July Singapore is confirmed to again host the world’s only night Formula 1 Grand Prix.

Prices slashed on US one-way fares

20 July V Australia has launched a new ticketing option, with the introduction of super cheap one-way tickets between Australia and Los Angeles.

Singapore entertainment complex delayed

20 July Singapore’s ambitious casino and entertainment complex, Marina Bay Sands, has been forced to put back its opening, due to construction delays.

Internet takes over in uncertain times

20 July Technology provider, Amadeus, has revealed a recent survey undertaken by the company shows a growing trend for Australian consumers to use the Internet for travel bookings.

Jakarta bombing update

17 July Indonesia has woken today to the sounds of a new round of terrorist bombings, with five star hotels in Jakarta’s up-market Mega Kuningan area targeted.

TFC shows positive future

17 July Western Australia continues to defy international tourism trends by recording positive visitor arrival figures.

Peregrine trims up India and Himalaya adventures

17 July Adventure tourism group, Peregrine Adventures has trimmed several of its most popular Himalayan and Indian trips, to pack more value into shorter trips.

Hawaii in top 10 survey

17 July Three of Hawaii’s islands have ranked in the latest Travel + Leisure Magazine list of the world’s Top 10 islands.

Virus threatens industry recovery

17 July While the latest forecasts from PATA for international arrivals to Thailand and the Asia Pacific region contain modest grounds for optimism, the report also highlights the potential threat of Swine Flu, as a threat to recovery.

Greyhound goes green

16 July Greyhound Australia has launched a promotion highlighting its ‘green credentials’ by giving away a $12,000 solar panel system.

Pan Pacific Hotels expands airline loyalty

16 July Pan Pacific Hotels has welcomed British Airways Executive Club members and United Airlines mileage club members to the group’s global alliance program.

TCF rolls out consumer promotion

15 July A national campaign highlighting the strong consumer protections in place for Australians who use travel agents has today been launched by the Travel Compensation Fund (TCF).

TMS launches Singapore academy

15 July TMS Asia-Pacific has entered into the executive training arena with the launch of its first ‘TMS Academy’ concept in Singapore.

V Australia to add limo services

15 July V Australia is set to offer chauffeured limousine door-to-door transfers for its premium passengers travelling in international business class, making it the first Australian airline to provide the service.

China-Hong Kong packages from $1479

15 July Cathay Pacific Holidays has launched four-night Beijing or Shanghai packages with a Hong Kong stopover, priced from $1479 per person twin share.

Poll underlines positive industry sentiment

14 July A snap online poll conducted by TMS Asia Pacific throughout June shows growing confidence among tourism industry businesses.

Perth commits $880 million to city riverside project

14 July Perth’s massive city waterfront precinct is a set closer to reality after the state’s planning minister signed off another stage of the 40 hectare development.

Agents rates for Baltic tours

13 July Eastern European holiday specialist, Beyond Travel, is offering travel agents and their companions discounts of over 40 percent on a range of 2009 escorted tours through Russia, Poland and the Baltic region.

SATW rates Rocky Mountaineer number one

13 July Two of Rocky Mountaineer’s iconic rail journeys have been rated by the Society of American Travel Writers (SATW) as the most exciting and scenic train experiences in the world.

TravelManagers hit year end high

13 July TravelManagers sales for June 2009 were their highest on record and followed closely on from their April financial result of best ever month.

Powder perfection for Mt Hutt

13 July Families heading to Mt Hutt this week have been blessed with new snow, pristine powder, and the promise of more to come. The high country ski area continues to receive regular snow falls building on a good base of more than 150 centimetres, with more snow is in the forecast for the next couple of days.

More snow for Perisher

8 July New South Wales ski areas around Perisher are still celebrating, with recent dumps dropping another 100 centimetres on the mountains over recent days.

Marriott resigns with Pegasus Solutions

10 July Marriott International has committed to Pegasus Solutions until 2014 to provide hotel reservation payments for travel agents.

Roamfree launches new distribution platform

10 July Travel services provider, Roamfree Group, has launched its next generation distribution system aimed at maximising occupancy and property revenue for accommodation managers.

Save on Tempo luxury in Egypt

10 July Tempo Holidays has launched a special promotion on its top-level, seven-day ‘Taste of Egypt’ package.

Thrillseeker ends up in hospital

8 July A male ‘Speedflyer’ pilot was airlifted to Dunedin Hospital after an accident near Treble Cone. Speedflying is a flight-sport similar to parapenting, using a smaller, faster performance canopy that is also launched from the ground.

Travelport launches new payment solution

7 July GDS giant, Travelport, has entered into a strategic relationship with PSP International to provide a state-of-the-art payment solution tailored specifically for the travel industry.

Royalties for Regions to boost WA tourism

7 July The Western Australian tourism industry is set to benefit from more than $9 million, allocated through the State Government’s ‘Royalties for Regions’ program.

Bargain basement BA fares

6 July Insight Vacations and British Airways have teamed up to put the UK and Europe on sale, with return flights from Sydney to London for $1328 per person, including taxes.

Cairns-Osaka back on the radar

6 July Jetstar will reinstate its direct international services between Cairns and Osaka once commercial airport arrangements are finalised in December.

More savings on North America

6 July Tour company, Cosmos, is celebrating the release of its 2010 North America program with a $200 saving on its most popular tour, the 18-day Canadian and Alaskan Masterpiece.

Adventure World booms in South America

3 July South America is booming for wholesaler, Adventure World, as its Latin American sales hit an all time high.

Europcar adds new eco-car to fleet

3 July Europcar Australia has expanded its fleet by adding the popular and versatile Hyundai i30 to its intermediate range of hire vehicles.

Etihad sponsors Arab Film Festival Australia

3 July Etihad Airways has announced its sponsorship of the 5th annual Arab Film Festival Australia.

A&K’s gorilla camp rated best in Uganda

3 July Abercrombie & Kent’s Gorilla Forest Camp has been rated as the best in Uganda by luxury travel magazine, Twende. The property was also rated as the Best Tented Camp in Uganda.

Travelmarvel shows off Canada and Alaska

2 July Travelmarvel has packed its 2010 brochure for Canada and Alaska with cruises, rail packages, coach touring and shore excursions under the wholesaler’s new branding.

Phenomenal snow at Treble Cone

2 July New Zealand’s South Island ski resort, Treble Cone, has had a sensational start to its season with conditions rated as the best in years.

Check out the birds in the Top End

2 July Bird watchers from around the world are in for a treat with Kakadu National Park hosting its annual Bird Week from 10-17th October.

US visitors continue to spend in Australia

1 July Fewer than one in 10 Americans say swine flu (H1N1) has impacted travel plans, while 14 percent say they intend to visit Australia in next two years, according to a new survey by credit card provider, Visa.

APT adds Indochina

1 July APT has added Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia to its China 2010 brochure.

Singapore’s business events booming

1 July Despite the global economic downturn, Singapore has joined the list of destinations that are defying trends and growing their business.

Hot Tahiti deals

30 June Air Tahiti Nui and Tahiti Travel Connection have released a new deal to Bora Bora starting from just $2595 per person twin-share, ex Sydney.

What a trip!

30 June Qantas Holidays and Viva! Holidays have launched a new trade reward and incentive program – named ‘Trip’.

WA visitor centre gets mobile

30 June As the saying goes, the three most important things for sales are location, location, location, so a regional visitor centre in southwest WA has developed an innovative, portable visitor information centre that will allow them to be exactly where their visitors are.

APT buys into GWT rail

29 June APT has acquired a majority stake in UK-based, GW Travel (GWT), the world leading operator of long-distance luxury rail tours by private train.

Flight Centre falls out with SIA

29 June The preferred relationship between Flight Centre and Singapore Airlines (SIA) is officially over with both parties formally ending discussions for 2009-10.

Qantas stands by sustainable tourism

29 June Qantas has re-affirmed its support for sustainable tourism through the Qantas Award for Excellence in Sustainable Tourism in 2009.

Oberammergau set for sell-out

29 June Trafalgar has announced that a remarkable uptake of its 2010 Oberammergau, The Passion Play program, is likely to see the program sold out, with more than 40 percent already sold.

Hawaii heads down under

26 June Hawaiian Airlines has joined the American-Australian Association in celebrating the birthplace of US President, Barack Obama, at the “Aloha to Hawaii” event.

Tasmania sets new visitor records

26 June Growth in domestic tourism is proving a bonanza for Tasmania, as the island state defies national trends to set its third consecutive quarter of increasing visitor numbers.

Last minute deals for UK and Europe

26 June Trafalgar is offering travellers a range of ‘last minute deals’ on five of its first-class itineraries with unprecedented saving on escorted touring throughout the UK and Europe.

Treble Cone goes deep

25 June New Zealand’s South Island ski resort, Treble Cone, is boasting the deepest snow depths of all the southern lakes resorts for its opening day on 27 June, with more snow on the horizon.

Globus offers more North American in 2010

25 June Globus has expanded its North America program for 2010 with four new tours and 65 holiday options for Australian travellers keen to explore the United States, Canada, Mexico and Latin America.

New business travel event a success

25 June Qatar Airways has hailed its partnership of the inaugural Business Travel Market in London a huge success with the two-day event attracting hosted corporate travel buyers from across Europe.

Major music event for WA

25 June Event promoters have unveiled an impressive list of speakers and artists confirmed for an exciting, new music event to be staged in Western Australia.

Greyhound launches loyalty program

24 June Greyhound Australia has introduced a new loyalty program to reward its frequent travellers.

Tempo offers Italy savings

24 June Following the launch of its dedicated Italy reservations team, Tempo Holidays is enhancing its focus on Italy, with a 10 percent discount on its eight-day Sicilian Highlights Tour.

Fiji acts quickly on swine flu

24 June Fiji is the latest destination to report a case of swine flu, with the island nation recording its first case over the weekend.

Last days for Tempo’s 15 percent commission

24 June Tempo Holidays’ 15 percent commission offer is set to close next week.

QF passengers released from hospital

23 June All seven passengers hospitalised following the recent severe turbulence incident have been released from hospital.

Tempo adds Italy res team

23 June The success of Tempo Holidays Italy program has seen the wholesaler launch a dedicated reservations team.

MasterChef Australia heads to Hong Kong

23 June Popular TV cooking show, MasterChef Australia will present a week of episodes filmed in Hong Kong.

Tourism Showcase wraps up in Melbourne

22 June Australia’s biggest tourism event has been hailed a success by attending buyers and sellers, as the Australian Tourism Exchange closes its doors for another year.

Six Malaysia holidays to be won

22 June Tourism Malaysia Perth and Air Asia X have announced a joint promotion for WA residents to win six holidays for two to Malaysia between 24 June and 30 November 2009.

Singapore Airlines and Trafalgar show you the world

22 June Trafalgar and Singapore Airlines have joined forces to offer travellers the chance to ‘Take Off to the World’, with a range of special packages and discounted airfares.

Sydney Airport plans approved

19 June Sydney Airport has welcomed the Australian Government’s approval of its 20 year Master Plan, which outlines the vision for the operation and continued development of Australia’s leading airport to the year 2029.

New record for Melbourne Airport

19 June Melbourne continues to build its domestic and international arrivals figures with May data showing the airport grew by 4.4 percent of the same month last year.

Air Pacific moves phones

19 June Air Pacific and its domestic subsidiary, Pacific Sun, will outsource their telephone reservations handling to the global contact centre, Mindpearl.

Hot deals for Tahiti

18 June A new range of discounted packages has made Tahiti hot and affordable.

Gold Coast welcomes new funding

18 June Gold Coast Tourism chief, Martin Winter, has welcomed the Queensland Government commitment to increase tourism funding, saying it is “a smart investment at a critical time”.

First B787 enters final assembly

18 June Final assembly has begun on the first Boeing 787 Dreamliner destined for delivery to launch customer All Nippon Airways (ANA) of Japan.

Amadeus says outlook bleak for travel bookings

18 June Technology provider, Amadeus, has revealed a recent survey undertaken by the company shows a growing trend for Internet bookings in the Australian market.

Skiing Queenstown now more affordable

18 June Pacific Blue will begin flying directly from Sydney to Queenstown from 5 September this year, in time for the destination’s Spring ski season.

Downturn used as scapegoat for collapse

17 June TravelManagers retail group are concerned that the downturn in the economy over recent months is being blamed for the high number of smaller travel agencies which are collapsing and requiring support from the Travel Compensation Fund (TCF).

New Rotorua guide to reach more people

16 June Destination Rotorua Tourism Marketing (DRTM) and Jasons Travel Media have joined forces to create a new tourism guide for visitors.

Tiger takes stock

16 June Tiger Airways has launched a four-day ‘stock-take’ sale starting which is slicing around 30 percent off regular prices for travel extending from 10 October – 10 December 2009.

ATE opens in Melbourne

15 June Australia’s premier tourism industry event, the Australian Tourism Exchange has kicked off in Melbourne this week bringing more than 2000 delegates together for a week-long session of business matching and contract negotiations.

Explore banks on new movie

15 June Australia-based wholesaler, Explore Holidays, is riding a marketing program on the back of the latest Tom Hanks movie – Angels and Demons – with a tour program that “lifts the curtain” on a new Italian adventure for film buffs.

Last minute deals for China

15 June China specialist, Wendy Wu Tours, has cut the price of its 21-day tour, for bookings taken before 30 June.

Three day deals for NZ cars

15 June Europcars has coupled cheap airfares with some low rates for accommodation and car hire to encourage Aussies to take a short break in New Zealand.

New Tahiti packages

15 June Air Tahiti Nui and Travelscene American Express have launched a new wave of holiday packages to French Polynesia’s trio - Tahiti, Moorea and Bora Bora.

globalCARS grows international fleet

15 June Car rental wholesaler, globalCARS, has secured exclusive access to a new range of vehicles over the next three months to cater for peak northern summer demand.

Mt Perisher opens tomorrow

12 June Recent snowfalls and $19 million of new snowmaking equipment will see Perisher open for its 2009 season this Saturday.

Virgin has one-night stand in Fiji

12 June Tourism Fiji and Pacific Blue celebrated the commencement of new direct services from Melbourne with a ‘one night stand’ famil for 30 Victorian and South Australian travel agents and wholesalers last week.

Hertz offers diesel Prado for NZ

12 June Hertz New Zealand will introduce an all-diesel fleet of Toyota Prado 4WDs as part of its ongoing sustainability policy to reduce carbon emissions.

Terror listed as possible crash cause

11 June Investigators working on the Air France crash are now investigating possible terrorism links between several of the passengers on the ill-fated flight.

TRENZ opens for 2009

9 June New Zealand’s premier travel industry event, TRENZ, has kicked off for 2009 with a mood of cautious optimism.

10 years for 100% Pure

9 june One of the world’s most successful tourism brands has reached a major milestone, with New Zealand’s 100% Pure marketing campaign celebrating its tenth birthday.

New Zealand targets youth

9 June Tourism New Zealand is looking to tap into youth travellers and emerging markets as part of its recovery strategy t bolster arrivals over the upcoming summer.

Queenstown eyes up the future

8 June Queenstown is preparing for its next wave of tourism business with the local tourism industry cautiously optimistic about the short and medium term future.

Solomon Islands records strong growth

8 June Solomon Islands continues to grow its tourism arrivals, with first quarter figures showing a 44 percent increase in visitors.

First bodies found from crash flight

8 June Search crews off the coast of Brazil have retrieved the first bodies from Air France flight AF447, which crashed into the sea last week.

Ski season opens tomorrow

5 June Australia’s ski resorts are bristling with excitement as they prepare to open their doors for 2009.

Branson warns of Atlantic monopoly

5 June Never one to sit quietly in a corner, Sir Richard Branson, has come out firing once again over the proposed ‘Atlantic’ alliance between British Airways and American Airlines.

WA boosts regional tourism services

5 June With regional tourism enjoying growth, the WA government has launched a program to improve training and service delivery in key regional centres.

Tempo pays 15% on Europe

5 June Tempo Holidays has added all its European destinations to Britain, Ireland and India to its 15 percent commission bonus for June bookings.

Gold Coast weathers tourism storm

4 June The Gold Coast is likely to survive the global economic downturn better than most other tourism regions, according to new research conducted by peak industry body, Tourism & Transport Forum (TTF).

Fuel subsidy cuts to hurt Queensland

4 June Greyhound Australia said the Queensland government’s decision to scrap its 8.3 cents a litre fuel subsidy will hurt the state’s tourism and transport sectors.

Bumper ski season for Queenstown

4 June Heavy snow falls throughout May and early June combined with consistent cold temperatures has seen New Zealand’s southern skifields in superb shape for the start of the 2009 winter season.

Norfolk Island creates dedicated marketing role

4 June Norfolk Island Tourism and Norfolk Air have combined their resources to create a marketing manager’s role to help drive additional tourism traffic to Australia’s closest overseas holiday destination.

Ireland celebrates Volvo race stop over

4 June Ireland is once again in party mode with the Volvo Ocean Race celebrations in full throttle across Galway.

NRMA fuels debate on surcharges

3 June International airlines are using fluctuating jet fuel prices as an excuse to over-charge passengers according to NRMA Travel.

Ski protection for winter rentals

3 June Europcar has released exclusive tailor-made packages for self-drive ski holidays.

Mixed concerns over swine flu

3 June A recent survey by online travel agency, totaltravel.com, has found almost half its respondents weren’t concerned about the spread of swine flu, while 32 percent said it would have some impact on their choice of travel destination.

New winter wonderlands

3 June Insight Vacations has launched its 2009/10 Winter Europe and Eastern Mediterranean brochure.

New director for Discover the World

3 June Discover the World Marketing has named distinguished travel industry veteran, Birgit Eisbrenner, as its new Australia director, replacing Richard Cranmer, who is winding down his day-to-day involvement with the company.

Woolworths flies with Qantas

2 June Woolworths and Qantas have joined forces to create a new loyalty program that will see shoppers to earn Qantas frequent flyer points as part of their everyday shopping.

Tempo increases commission on Britain and India

2 June Tempo Holidays is increasing its agent commissions to 15 percent for June bookings on most of its Britain and India product.

AirAsia launches Buy-Now Fly-Now

2 June AirAsia has released a new sale with budget fares available for immediate travel to Malaysia and more than 65 destinations across the airline’s international network.

Fiji ‘Stimulus’ campaign a success

29 May Fiji tourism officials are celebrating the success of a recent campaign to build Australian arrivals, with the promotion achieving exceptional results.

Abu Dhabi tackles bed shortage

29 May The Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA) has confirmed that despite current global circumstances, the city will increase its accommodation stock by more than 3000 rooms this year, in readiness for the 2009 Formula 1 Grand Prix in November.

Turnaround in sight for travel industry

29 May Travelscene management said they can see light at the end of the tunnel for the corporate travel industry with travel expenditures and bookings beginning to firm.

Europcar to rent electric vehicles

28 May Europcar will be the first major car hire company in Australia and New Zealand to add electric vehicles to its fleet, when it begins offering the ‘electric option’ from 2010.

South Africa upgrades FIFA interactions online

28 May South African Tourism has revamped its destination website at the same time as launching a dedicated 2010 FIFA World Cup microsite, to keep visitors in touch with developments for the Soccer World Cup.

NZ travel event to boost industry

28 May Auckland will stand centrestage next month when the city hosts New Zealand’s largest annual travel industry event, TRENZ, from 8-11 June.

Discounts on family adventures

27 May Adventure World has cut up to 15 percent off a range of 20 family adventure tours in South America, Europe, Africa and Asia.

New Horizons releases more Thailand

27 May New Horizons Holidays, has upped the ante with other wholesalers following the launch of its latest Thailand brochure, which is the most extensive program to date.

TravelManagers launch first brochure

27 May Hot on the heels of distributing its new marketing kit across its network of personal travel managers, TravelManagers has launched its first-ever travel catalogue.

Malaysia wins on value

27 May Malaysia has been recognised as one of the world’s best value holiday destinations in a recent study by the Geneva-based World Economic Forum.

South Africa grows in tough environment

26 May Despite global economic turmoil, South Africa’s tourism industry continues to perform well in terms of arrivals growth and visitor spending.

Kiwis want more Aussies

26 May Tourism New Zealand is aiming to entice more Australians crossing the Tasman to holiday in the land of the long white cloud, with the launch of a new NZ$2.5 million marketing campaign.

Industry urged to position for recovery

26 May As light begins to appear at the end of the economic turmoil tunnel, Australian Tourism Export Council (ATEC) managing director, Matthew Hingerty is urging operators to position themselves for recovery.

Flight Centre plays dangerous game

25 May Retail giant, Flight Centre is flexing its muscles, after a commission deal with Singapore Airlines for the new financial year broke down.

Travelscene positions for fourth quarter recovery

25 May Travelscene Corporate Members have been told to prepare for a recovery in the fourth quarter of 2009, with company leaders noting that Australia and Asia were most likely to lead the way to economic recovery.

Agency collapses rise

25 May Travel agency collapses are the highest in a decade, according to the recently released Travel Compensation Fund Annual report.

Broome wants Jetstar

25 May As Jetstar ramps up its international services from Perth, Broome is pitching a bid for direct flights to Singapore.

Germany appoints tourism office rep for Australia

22 May The German National Tourist Board has appointed Sue Marsh Ink as its sales and marketing representative in Australia.

Boeing completes B787 engine test

22 May After a delayed start, Boeing continues to make steady progress toward the first flight of its revolutionary B787 Dreamliner, after completing the first engine runs on the all-new aircraft.

Prices cut on Galapagos cruises

21 May Adventure World is cutting prices on its Galapagos Islands itineraries to mark the 200th anniversary of Charles Darwin’s voyage to the islands.

OETG adds Express Events

21 May Orient Express Travel Group (OETG) has expanded its offering with the creation of its new ‘Express Events’ group, which has been introduced to support travel arrangements for conference and event planners.

Cooks officially world’s first recession free country

21 May It could only happen in a place like the Cook Islands, where the local government has announced the nation has officially decided not to take part in the worldwide recession, and instead will become the world’s first ‘Recession Free Oasis’.

Virgin Blue streamlines Brisbane-GC transfers

21 May Virgin Blue has joined forces with Gold Coast-based transport group, Con-x-ion, to offer quick and easy airport transfers to Brisbane, the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast.

Perth Airport releases Master Plan for future

21 May Westralia Airports Corporation has released its 2009 Preliminary Draft Master Plan showcasing the vision for Perth airport over the next 20 years.

Airline partnership creates new transatlantic powerhouse

20 May A landmark global joint venture agreement signed by Air France KLM and Delta Airlines is set to change the balance of power over the Atlantic.

New Virgin ads push low fare credentials

20 May Virgin Blue has launched a brand new national television campaign showing consumers how the airline has heralded the new era of low fares in Australia.

Melbourne Airport flies best ever April

20 May It’s a case of ‘what recession?’ as Melbourne Airport reports its highest number of passengers for April on record, with positive passenger growth in both the international and domestic markets.

Tempo launches India’s newest ultra-luxury train

20 May Tempo Holidays has today launched its newest rail product - the ultra-luxury Indian train - Maharajas’ Express.

Travelscene positions for fourth quarter recovery

20 May Travelscene Corporate Members have been told to prepare for a recovery in the fourth quarter of 2009, with company leaders noting that Australia and Asia were most likely to lead the way to economic recovery .

Travelmarvel chases mid-market position

19 May APT-owned Travelmarvel has launched a new slogan aimed at consolidating its mid-market product position.

New GM for Air Pacific

19 May Air Pacific has appointed Martin White as its Fiji-based executive general manager, commercial, responsible for the overall commercial activities of the company.

ATEC WA welcomes tourism-friendly state budget

18 May The Australian Tourism Export Council (ATEC) has welcomed the tourism support shown by the recent Western Australia’s state government budget.

Bench launches cruise-safari help desk

15 May African holiday specialist, Bench International, has set up a new desk to handle queries from agents and incentive operators who want to combine an African safari with a cruise holiday.

May skiing for NZ’s Mt Hutt

15 May Early snows are building hopes that New Zealand’s Mt Hutt ski resort will open later this month.

Hawaii celebrates 50th birthday

15 May Hawaii Tourism Oceania (HTO) celebrated the island state’s 50th Statehood Anniversary last week with a special Aloha Down Under Road Show.

Free nights in Cape Town

15 May Africa specialists, Bench International and South African Airways have put together an eight-day wildlife and scenery package in South Africa which includes three nights free accommodation in Cape Town.

Margaret River joins CowParade

15 May It is one of the most bizarre forms of artistic expression, but one that has captured world attention, as life-sized fibreglass cows are painted and displayed in some of the world’s greatest cities.

AFTA welcomes TCF review

14 May The Australian Federation of Travel Agents has welcomed the long awaited announcement of a review of the effectiveness of consumer protection measures within the travel industry.

Price cuts for Egypt cruise

14 May Tempo Holidays has launches an Egypt promotion with a five percent discount on its 10-day ‘Nile in Style’ package, for new bookings deposited by 31 May, 2009.

Free China flights for companions

13 May APT is offering a new program that allows partners to fly for free to China, on the company’s 13-day Imperial China tour-cruise in September and October.

Euro car lease discounts and upgrades

13 May European car leasing specialist, globalCARS, is offering savings of up to $240 and free upgrades on a selection of Renault vehicles, which means substantial savings on 21 day bookings.

ATEC welcomes EMDG funding

13 May The Australian Tourism Export Council (ATEC) has welcomed the $50 million boost to the Export Market Development Grants (EMDG) scheme announced in yesterday’s federal budget.

Dublin voted ‘friendliest city in Europe’

12 May Dublin has been named the friendliest city in Europe for the second year running, in a survey of travellers’ perceptions of European cities by the world’s largest travel community, TripAdvisor.

Industry urged to position for recovery

12 May As light begins to appear at the end of the economic turmoil tunnel, Australian Tourism Export Council (ATEC) managing director, Matthew Hingerty is urging operators to position themselves for recovery.

Free nights at Cable Beach Club Resort

11 May APT Kimberley Wilderness is offering two free nights at Broome’s Cable Beach Club Resort on selected June, July and August departures of its 13-day Kimberley Complete small group 4WD package.

WA signs on No Leave No Life

11 May Tourism Western Australia has become the first state tourism organisation to partner with Tourism Australia in an above the line marketing campaign for its domestic campaign initiative, ‘No Leave No Life’.

Industry welcomes TCF review

11 May Travel Compensation Fund (TCF) executives have welcomed news of a review into Australia’s consumer protection system for the travel industry.

Air NZ strips down for new ads

11 May Air New Zealand has launched its latest TV advertising campaign, which shows the airline really does have nothing to hide.

Emirates launch new US fares

8 May Emirates Airline has launched a new range of US airfares from Perth, starting from $2399 in economy return and $8400 for business class return. Fares are exclusive of taxes, which will vary depending on the destinations.

World’s longest golf course

7 May Western Australia is Australia’s largest state, and arguably one of the largest in the world, so it makes sense that things are big here. Whale sharks, rivers, road trains, crocodiles – it doesn’t matter – so long as they are big! And now, WA is laying claim to the world’s longest golf course.

Business tourism provides welcome boost

7 May Conventions and business events will play an important role in the Northern Territory’s tourism industry, according to chief minister, Paul Henderson, recently returned from a global tour with world leaders in business tourism.

New car rental services in Croatia

7 May The growing popularity of Croatia as a holiday destination for Australians has prompted leading rental car operator, globalCARS, to introduce new rates and vehicles across a range of Balkan and eastern European countries.

Chevron Towers cruises Surfers

7 May Landmark Gold Coast hotel, Towers of Chevron Renaissance, is offering a fun package for travellers that allows them to cruise the waterways, hit the shops and chill out with a four-night holiday.

Tempo discovers Jerusalem

6 May Tempo Holidays has turned to Jerusalem and the Holyland for inspiration with a five percent discount offered on the wholesaler’s eight-day Holyland Tour.

New partner program for Travel Corporation

6 May In a first for the Australian travel industry, two of Travel Corporation’s iconic brands - Trafalgar Tours and Insight Vacations have launched a new communication program designed to help agents build loyalty, add value to the booking process and create stronger relationships with their clients.

Sabre bridges web gap

6 May The evolution of web-based technologies and screen graphics has seen GDS provider, Sabre Pacific, revolutionise its Explore product to create a dynamic booking system that now includes fares from full-service and low-fare airlines.

Hong Kong remains on the rise

5 May The latest tourism expenditure figures for Hong Kong show business continues to grow, with an 11.7 percent jump in receipts.

BMX stars ride into Perth

5 May More than 1500 of Australia’s best BMX riders have converged on Perth for the 2009 National BMX Championships this week.

Fiji offers children for $299

5 May Air Pacific has launched a special children’s fares to attract families back to the holiday islands.

AIME audit confirms record numbers

4 May Record visitor numbers claimed by organisers of Australia’s premier business tourism event – AIME – have been confirmed following an audit by the Circulations Audit Board (CAB).

Bench adds more safari packages

4 May African safari specialist, Bench International has teamed with South African Airways to produce a new wildlife experience at the Makutsi Safari Springs.

Tourism’s time of opportunity

1 May As light begins to appear at the end of the economic turmoil, Australian Tourism Export Council (ATEC) managing director, Matthew Hingerty is urging operators to position themselves for recovery.

Report shows highs and lows

1 May A new global survey of travel managers by Carlson Wagonlit Travel (CWT) has shown it’s not all bad news in the corporate world, with more than 58 percent of companies surveyed expected to maintain, or increase travel plans this year. 38 percent are expecting to reduce travel in 2009.

Optimism drives WA market

1 May Turn to any broadcast media outlet at the moment and you’ll be bombarded with messages of global economic doom and gloom – a fact that frustrates Australian Export Tourism Council (ATEC) WA branch manager, Margaret Wilson, who is heartily tired of the over-exposed fear factor, saying there are plenty of positives for the tourism industry to focus on.

New flights boost access

30 April Limited air access and high fare levels have long been an impediment to the Northern Territory’s tourism industry, but it seems the drought has broken at long last with several airlines announcing increased services to Alice Springs and Darwin.

Swine flu strikes fear into industry

29 April No sooner have we received some good economic news than the tourism industry faces its next major hurdle with a new strain of flu virus, known as Swine Flu.

Numbers down but confidence up for Fiji

29 April Fiji continues to struggle to rebuild its tourism arrivals with global recession, political instability and the impact the January floods contributing to a 27.8 percent drop in Australian visitor arrivals to Fiji over the first two months of the year.

MSC clears air on pirate attack

29 April Despite taking the necessary precautions to evade piracy, MSC Cruises ship, MSC Melody, was attacked by pirates near the Seychelles islands over the weekend.

Snow falls across high country

29 April The first snow of 2009 has arrived in New South Wales and Victoria with huge dumps at Perisher and Falls Creek.

New Anzac dawn for 2010

29 April APT has packaged a European River Cruise with a tour of the Gallipoli Peninsula and the Anzac Day Dawn Service at Anzac Cove in 2010.

NT wins best display

28 April 2009 Tourism NT has taken out its third award for a new consumer show display at this week’s NSW Caravan Camping 4WD & Holiday Supershow, based in Sydney.

New hope for Zimbabwe tourism

27 April Zimbabwe has received a lifeline from several international governments which have lifted travel advisories softening aginst the strife-torn country.

Albatross offer $30,000 incentive for agents

23 April Albatross Travel Group’s managing director, Euan Landsborough, has announced a $30,000 financial incentive package to assist agents enveloped by the global recession.

Cut price Africa

23 April The Africa Safari Co has slashed over $500 per person on two of its popular African trips for departures to 20 September 2009.

Air AsiaX offers London from A$195

22 April AirAsia X has launched an amazing fare deal, with flights between Kuala Lumpur and London starting from A$195 (MYR499).

Tourism leaders celebrate China program

22 April WA tourism minister, Liz Constable, has joined with key members of the Australian and Chinese tourism industry to celebrate a program that has allowed more than 300,000 Chinese tourists to visit Australia over the past 10 years.

Gold Coast thrives on short breaks

21 April Gold Coast tourism businesses have reported a positive Easter holiday period as Australians headed to the ‘Coast’ for a short break.

Norfolk adds financial stimulus

21 April Norfolk Island has responded quickly to the government’s latest economic stimulus strategy with new value-based getaways from under $900.

APT cuts up to $1000 on domestic trips

20 April APT has released deals on several Australian tours, offering savings up to $1000 per couple.

Chairman says PATA most relevant

20 April Former governor of Tourism Authority of Thailand, Phornsiri Manoharn, now newly-elected PATA chairman, believes the association has an increasingly important role to play in the current global economic crisis.

Tempo cuts 20 percent off Greece cruises

20 April Tempo Holidays has shaved 20 percent off five Greek Islands and Turkey short cruises, in its Europe program.

Air NZ shouts free flights

20 April Air New Zealand is providing a free New Zealand domestic flight with every direct trans-Tasman flight purchased as part of its ‘The Big NZ Shout’ promotion, which will run over the next three weeks.

Australians search snow online

17 April Travellers are turning to the web in greater numbers as they research destinations and source the best deals.

IHG named best hotel chain in China

17 April InterContinental Hotel Group has been named the ‘Best International Chain’ for the second year in a row at TTG China Travel Awards. Five hotels representing three IHG brands were also winners in other categories.

‘New’ tombs uncovered in Egypt

17 April New excavations in the Faiyum region of Egypt have uncovered a ‘city of the dead’ with 53 rock‐cut tombs discovered by an Egyptian archaeological mission sponsored by the Supreme Council of Antiquities (SCA).

Big savings for Oberammergau Passion Play departures

17 April With the once in a decade Oberammergau Passion Play scheduled to perform in 2010, Trafalgar Tours has announced new earlybird discounts on all of its 2010 departures.

Record Australian season for Royal Caribbean

17 April As the beautiful Rhapsody of the Seas pulled out of Sydney Harbour on Easter Monday for the final time this summer, she left behind a record season in Australia for Royal Caribbean and its sister brand Celebrity Cruises.

UA launches $996 flights to US

16 April United Airlines has joined the fare war with a new $649 airfare between Sydney and Los Angeles or San Francisco. The economy class fare, including taxes is $996.

Hong Kong tourism still spending big

16 April The latest tourism expenditure figures for Hong Kong show business continues to grow, with an 11.7 percent jump in receipts.

Tempo uncovers Jerusalem

16 April With Australian tourism to Israel at historic highs, Tempo Holidays has packaged a range of short-break tour options to provide travellers with a taste of the real Jerusalem.

ATEC names conference speakers

15 April The Australian Tourism Export Council (ATEC) has named an interesting line up of speakers for its 2009 symposium in Darwin later this month.

Fiji upsells devalued dollar

15 April Tourism Fiji chief executive, Josefa Tuamoto has welcomed today’s decision by the Fiji Reserve Bank to devalue the Fiji dollar by 20 percent as a timely windfall for the destination’s tourism industry.

AIME named year’s best

15 April Australia’s benchmark incentives and meetings expo, AIME 2008, has been named Australia’s Exhibition of the Year at the prestigious Meetings & Events Australia (MEA) industry awards.

Singapore stopover from $1

15 April Singapore Airlines and Singapore Tourism Board (STB) have today collaborated to offer holidaymakers a discounted program on accommodation, transfers and entry into some of Singapore’s leading attractions.

JTG packages UAE

15 April The Jetset Travelworld Group has swept the covers off its latest offering – an exciting United Arab Emirates program featuring Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

Gold Coast- Tourism’s aggressive chameleon

15 April It is often said that the business most likely to survive testing times is the one that can best adapt to its constantly changing environment, a theory currently being proved by Queensland’s Gold Coast tourism industry which is increasing tourism revenues despite declining arrivals.

Buckley stands by Australia

15 April The proof of the pudding is in the eating, and despite mixed reviews of the highly publicised movie, Australia, Tourism Australia managing director, Geoff Buckley, said the marketing promotions are achieving good results.

LAN launches South America super sale

14 April LAN Airlines has announced a range of ‘Super Sale Special’ fares for travel from Australia to over 50 destinations across Central and South America, including Chile, Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Peru, Mexico, Paraguay, Uruguay and Venezuela.

Fiji working to rebuild confidence

14 April With the most recent political turmoil set to cripple its visitor arrivals once again, Fiji’s tourism leaders are working hard to reassure travellers the country remains a safe and secure destination.

Qantas slashes profit outlook

14 April Qantas has made major changes to its operations as it restructures to deal with the changing pressures of the economic downturn.

2-4-1 business on Cathay Pacific

14 April Cathay Pacific has launched a new two-for-one airfare for business class travel to a number of destinations across its network, including Hong Kong, Beijing, Shanghai, Taipei and London.

Europe car rental rates slashed

13 April Savings of up to $750 are now available on several brand new models of Citroen for bookings made before 30 April 2009.

Costa launches Hong Kong voyages

13 April Costa Cruises has celebrated the maiden call of its mega-liner, Costa Classica, to its new home in Hong Kong.

Boeing slows twin aisle production

10 April Boeing is adjusting its production plans for twin-aisle for 2010 to meet downgraded orders due to significant deterioration in the airline industry.

Emirates launches new Europe fares

9 April Emirates Airline is offering passengers travelling from Western Australia an extra incentive to book a trip abroad this year, with special airfares to Europe and the Middle East.

NRMA: More tourism funds needed

9 April New South Wales motoring body, NRMA Motoring & Services, is urging the Australian Government to allocate much-needed funds in this year’s budget to support the nation’s tourism industry.

Tempo offers Irish adventure

9 April Tempo Holidays is moving its tour program beyond the norm, with the inclusion of destinations that show the adventurous Irish Spirit.

Tahiti card offers island discounts

8 April Australians visiting Tahiti’s sister island of Moorea during 2009 will enjoy a range of discounts on holiday experiences through Tahiti Tourisme’s new holiday discount card.

Heathrow T5 celebrates 20 million customers

8 April British Airways has welcomed more than 20 million customers through the doors of its new home at Heathrow Airport’s Terminal 5 during its first year of operations.

Gold Coast looks for backpackers

8 April The Gold Coast is expanding its profile to chase backpackers as it works to build its lagging visitor numbers.

Short break deals for Ghan

8 April APT is marking the 80th anniversary of The Ghan with discounts on six of its NT Short Breaks, which incorporate travel on the historic train.

Borghetti to depart Qantas

7 April Qantas chief executive, Alan Joyce, has advised that John Borghetti, Group Executive – Qantas Airlines, will leave the company on 4 May 2009.

Visitors return to rural Victoria

7 April Life is returning to Victoria’s bushfire-ravaged areas, with trees sprouting green leaves and visitors returning in droves. It’s great news for towns that were, only last month, facing extensive financial loss.

Travellers want more nudist beaches

7 April It’s a case of less is more, with a recent online survey by totaltravel.com finding that more than 40 percent of its website users believe more nudist beaches in Australia would help boost tourism numbers.

Air Austral to begin Sydney services

7 April Air Austral has confirmed it will commence flying a twice weekly service between Sydney and Paris, via Reunion Island from next week.

Last call for Huka Golf Classic

7 April New Zealand luxury boutique lodge, Huka Lodge, is hosting its annual Stableford individual and pairs competition tournament from 24-26 April.

Air Tahiti Nui wins again

6 April Air Tahiti Nui has made it seven in a row, winning the title of “Best Airline - Pacific Region” in the 2009 Skytrax global awards for airline excellence.

WA website named in worlds coolest

6 April Tourism Western Australia’s official tourism website, westernaustralia.com, has been named one of the world’s “coolest sites you can rave about” by world-renowned blogger and Microsoft Office Sharepoint Services (MOSS) expert, Joel Oleson.

Cairns bounces back

6 April After weeks of heavy rain, cyclonic weather and major access difficulties, Cairns businesses are starting to return to normal, with car rental giant, Europcar, reporting a bumper month in March with figures showing a visible spike in car rentals.

MSC crew honoured for bravery

6 April Four crew members who risked their lives to saved an overboard passenger have been recognized with a ceremony held on board MSC Fantasia at the port of Palma de Mallorca in Spain.

Hertz launches drive-ski earlybirds for NZ

3 April As New Zealand prepares for another big ski season, Hertz has introduced two bargain earlybird ski deals to some of the South Island’s top alpine resorts.

PATA offers new hope for tourism industry

3 April The Pacific Asia Travel Association is suggesting there is cause for cautious optimism in the tourism and travel industry across the Asia Pacific, with the finalization of the latest round of tourism data.

EPMU cancels Easter strike plans

2 April Mediation and threatened court action has seen the EPMU back down from its planned Easter strike action against Air New Zealand.

Sydney spends $500 million on airport upgrade

2 April Sydney Airport has launched a major investment program to upgrade passenger facilities and services.

Greyhound honours ANZACS

2 April Greyhound Australia has confirmed it will transport war veterans and war widows free on its entire network over the ANZAC weekend - on 24, 25 and 26 April.

Hawaiian doubles baggage allowance

2 April Hawaiian Airlines has added weight to the ‘value for money’ battle over the Pacific with passenger baggage allowance increased to 64 kilograms per passenger.

APT deal on Canada package

1 April APT has set a 30 April deadline for a $250 per person twin share discount on its 19-day Spectacular Rockies and Alaskan Cruise package departing 18 August and 8 September.

Free African safaris for children

1 April African safari specialist, Bench International, is offering a package where a child travels free on an eight-day safari when travelling with two adults.

Hot Deals launch NZ and Tasmania brochures

1 April APT has launched its New Zealand and Tasmania 2009-2010 brochures with earlybird deals worth up to $760 and $450 per couple.

Get a life

31 March The successful piloting of its ‘No leave. No life’ program, has seen Tourism Australia launch the strategy as a national initiative.

New technology eases Heathrow fog disruptions

31 March British Airways has invested £5 million in new advanced technology to reduce the delays and disruption caused by fog and poor visibility at Heathrow Airport.

Explore the world by rail

31 March Explore Holidays has pulled out all stops in its newest brochure for train enthusiasts, offering an exciting range of rail adventures from around the world.

Surfs up at Margaret River

30 March Western Australia’s Margaret River has again attracted some of the world’s top surfers, with the Drug Aware Pro Margaret River classic set to run off Surfer’s Point this week.

Norfolk Island joins cruise boom

27 March Norfolk Island’s tourism industry has welcomed news that P&O Cruises’ will make five visits to the island next year.

STA Travel unveils new retail look

26 March Student and youth holiday retailer, STA Travel, has unveiled its fresh retail look with the launch of a new store in Geelong, Victoria.

Air Canada takes 10 years off airfares

26 March Ten years ago a return Air Canada airfare from Sydney to Vancouver cost $1499. Fast-forward a decade and you can again buy the fare at the same price.

Greyhound gets dirty

26 March Greyhound Australia is getting ready for a weekend of outback fun as it gets ready for this year’s Dirt and Dust Festival being held from 3-5 April in Julia Creek.

SIA offers frequent flyer upgrades

26 March Singapore Airlines has launched a new program to entice frequent travellers into its business class cabins with the offer of free upgrades for frequent flyers.

TMS to launch new training ‘academy’

26 March TMS Asia-Pacific has announced plans to enter the executive training arena with the launch of its first ‘TMS Academy’ concept in Singapore.

Tempo takes Christian journey

25 March Tempo Holidays has a two-day rail package from Paris to the Christian pilgrimage market town of Lourdes in southern France.

South Australia wins major retail conference

24 March National retail travel group Travellers Choice has chosen Adelaide to host its 2009 Annual Shareholders’ Conference.

AIME moves to March in 2010

23 March Organisers of Australia’s premier incentives and meetings expo, AIME, have announced dates for the 2010 event.

Albatross packages ultimate white Christmas

23 March With a classic white Christmas topping the travel wish-list of almost every Australian traveller, Albatross Travel, has created a ‘once in a lifetime’ European Christmas – complete with a stunning Austrian hotel powdered with thick snow.

Norfolk Island revamps tourism strategy

23 March Popular South Pacific getaway, Norfolk Island is revamping its tourism strategy to capitalise on new opportunities arising from the changing economic environment.

Bonus deals with Austria rail passes

23 March Rail Plus is including half-price boat rides on Lake Constance and a 20 percent discount on some Danube river cruises as value-bonuses for sale of its Austria rail passes.

Darwin conference ‘critical’ for inbound future

20 March The future of Australia’s inbound tourism sector will go under the spotlight at an upcoming conference which will attract the best minds in the industry, according to the Australian Tourism Export Council (ATEC).

Costs cut on Kilamanjaro

20 March The Africa Safari Co has reduced the prices on all its Mount Kilimanjaro climbs for 2009, with savings of up to $100 per person.

B787 in final assembly

20 March Boeing is almost ready to begin flight tests on its much-anticipated Boeing B787, with the sixth and final aircraft now undergoing final assembly.

TSAX launches new cruise program

20 March Travelscene American Express is launching a major campaign with P&O Cruises to celebrate the 2010 arrival of the fleet’s newest ship - Pacific Jewel - and the home port relocation for Pacific Dawn.

Explore chases number one ranking

19 March Australian travel wholesaler, Explore Holidays, has outlined plans to strengthen its niche market position as a long haul and independent travel specialist, with the upcoming launch of a new product range.

Backpackers bucking the trend

19 March The Northern Territory Government has launched a new promotion to increase the number of backpackers visiting the Territory.

Australia now Bali’s best

19 March Bali’s growing popularity with Australia has reached new heights with the latest arrivals figures showing Australia has moved into the number one position, as the island’s biggest source market.

Much ado about an &

19 March Africa-based luxury safari wholesaler, &Beyond (formerly CC Africa) and UK-based Abercrombie & Kent have made an out of court agreement on both companies use of the ampersand symbol (&) in logos and branding.

Aussies spending less on GC

19 March Gold Coast Tourism is reporting a mixed bag of tourism results following the release of the latest data from Tourism Research Australia.

Diving with crocs

18 March The Novotel Darwin Atrium and Crocosaurus have joined forces to create an adrenalin pumping Top End experience, called the Cage of Death, giving thrill-seekers an opportunity to get up close some of the Northern Territory’s largest saltwater crocodiles at Crocosaurus Cove – a new tourist attraction in Darwin’s CBD.

Inflight phones more popular

18 March The debate over the popularity of in-flight mobile phones has ended, as Emirates clocked up its 100,000th inflight call, with a passenger calling from 36,000 feet enroute from Dubai to Singapore.

New website makes planning simple

18 March Serious self-drive holidaymakers will tell you that the appeal of this style of holiday lies as much in the journey, as in the destination. So with this in mind, Tourism Queensland has developed a new website to help make planning a drive-holiday simple.

SYD-New York from $747

17 March United Airlines is stamping its mark on transpacific travel with the launch of new return economy class airfares between Sydney and New York, starting from $747, plus taxes.

Transpacific fares set to tumble

17 March Increased competition and a slowing economy are likely to provide the catalyst for a fare war on the once lucrative transpacific route between Australia and the US.

World Cup tickets on sale

17 March At long last, soccer fans can buy their 2010 FIFA World Cup tickets online at the FIFA website - http://www.fifa.com

NZ increases ski marketing

16 March New Zealand Ski Tourism Marketing Network (Ski TMN) has launched a new campaign to capture a growing share of the Australian market.

More value in Turkey

16 March Transglobal Destinations’ has launched its new 40-page Turkey brochure that it claims will offer even better value for travellers.

Perth airport welcomes new Darwin dailies

16 March Perth Airport continues to build its passenger numbers with Virgin Blue confirming it will commence new daily direct services between Perth and Darwin from 28 April 2009.

Kenya cuts visa costs

13 March The Kenya Tourist Board is preparing to cut its visa costs by 50 percent to assist the recovery of the popular East African wildlife destination.

Is this among the worlds best jobs?

13 March Singapore Airlines has announced what could easily be considered one of the best jobs in the world – joining the airline’s panel of wine experts.

Wallabies to invade Wellington

13 March Fans of the mighty wallabies should pack a ticket – or should that be ‘teckit’ – for Wellington to catch one of the matches scheduled to play in the harbor city during the Rugby World Cup in 2011.

GC visitors stay longer and spend more

An analysis of tourism trends has provided mixed results for Gold Coast Tourism.

Albatross pledges no cancellation

12 March With the rumours of cancelled European tours looms over the industry, Albatross Travel Group has committed to maintaining its 15 year tradition of guaranteed departures.

Modest growth for 2008 while Q4 arrivals dive

12 March The latest visitor arrivals figures released by PATA this week reflect positive growth for 2008, despite a slowing tourism economy in the final quarter.

NZ ski earlybird bonuses

11 March New Zealand’s leading ski wholesalers have announced early bird specials for bookings prior to 30 April that will saver skiers and boarders hundreds of dollars off their next ski trip to Queenstown or Mt. Hutt.

Noosa weathers the storm

11 March Queensland tourist Mecca, Noosa, has given the all-clear to the town, saying visitors can rest assured that it is business as usual, despite the recent threat of storms.

Tempo adds Taste of Prague to Eastern Europe tour

10 March The four-day Taste of Prague package is suggested by Tempo Holidays as a perfect add-on to its 13-day Eastern European Panorama coach tour.

New ticket innovation for Kimberley Moon Experience

9 March 2009 As the Airnorth Kimberley Moon Experience cements itself on the list of must-do corprorate events in WA, event organisers have introduced a new initiative to bridge the gap between premium corporate areas and general admission.

Rotorua makes group travel easy

6 March Rotorua’s diversity of tourism products and attractions has always made the destination difficult to package for groups, so tourism bodies have collaborated to assit club or group travel.

Middle East vital to Gold Coast economy

6 March The Gold Coast is working to maintain its grip on the vital Middle Eastern visitor market follwoing the successful hosting of Tourism Australia’s 2009 Yinala program this week.

NSW secures major healthcare event

6 March Business Events Sydney has secured a landmark international healthcare event that will see more than 500 senior medical experts descend on the city.

Orient Express set for North Asia short breaks

5 March Orient Express Holidays has launched its 2009-10 brochure for Hong Kong, China and Macau with a range of new short escapes, extended escorted and private tours, local sightseeing and hotels in major locations.

Michelle Cox to lead APT marketing

5 March APT has appointed Michelle Cox to the role of general manager marketing.

Hawaiian slashes fares

4 March Hawaiian Airlines has cut its fare levels between Sydney and Honolulu to just $600 return, plus $297 taxes.

New web for NT

4 March Tourism NT has added a new trade dimension to its website as a tool to better meet the needs of the national and international travel trade.

Free kids on Airtrain

3 March Brisbane-based Airtrain has added a huge incentive for families to use its AirtrainConnect service that sees kids travelling for free.

Regional tourism winning during economic slowdown

3 March A recent survey of 900 regional tourism businesses has revealed that country tourism is faring better than expected in the economic downturn.

South Africa winning Aussie hearts

2 March The Dark Continent has become a shining light for Australian tourists as South Africa reports a record number of Australians visiting the country.

Qantas launches massive seat sale

27 February Qantas has put more than two million domestic seats on sale today, with fares cut by up to 40 percent on some sectors.

Domestic travellers take to the road

27 February Anyone doubting the growth of domestic self-drive holidays only needs to have a look to see the huge number of caravans and motor homes cruising our country highways.

Europe river auction raises $39k

27 February An auction run by APT has raised more than $39,000 to assist the Victorian bushfire appeal.

Johnnie Walker success

27 February Perth’s recent Johnnie Walker Classic golf tournament has been hailed a success by organisers, with WA tourism minister, Liz Constable, saying the event exceeded expectations.

Perth air figures show strong growth

26 February January passenger figures for Perth Airport have shown continued growth in both the domestic and international sectors, growing a further 7.9 percent on the previous January.

Hertz offers smart phone web access

26 February Hertz has expanded access to its popular web check-in service, to offer access via mobile telephones, Blackberry or other PDA devices.

Cairns first to offer bar code boarding

26 February Cairns Airport has become the first airport in Australia to fully operate a terminal with bar-coded boarding passes (BCBP) – a full year ahead of the airline industry deadline.

De Bortoli Yarra Valley opens after fire

26 February De Bortoli Yarra Valley Estate has reopened for business, following a brief closure during the devastating Victorian bushfires.

Dreamworld chases functions

26 February With forecasts for business and events travel in decline, Gold Coast theme parks, Dreamworld and WhiteWater World have taken a renewed approach to lure functions and events to the park, by doing what they do best – having fun.

Evergreen freezes NZ pricing

24 February Evergreen Tours has launched its 2009/10 New Zealand touring program with news it has frozen pricing to 2008 levels and added a ‘fly free return’ on its most popular tour - the Grand New Zealand Tour and Rail Discovery Tour.

Tahiti breakfast seminars for agents

24 February Tahiti’s tourism partners are hosting a series of breakfast seminars in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane next month to assist travel agents to maximise their earning potential.

Tempo extends Iberia deals

24 February Tempo Holidays has expanded its discounted holiday programs to now include the nine-day Flavours of Spain and Portugal package.

AIME 09 breaks all records

23 February In defiance of the current economic climate, organisers of Australia’s largest meetings and incentive expo, AIME 09, said the event had broken records with visitor and exhibitor numbers up on last year.

Melbourne gets more flights

24 February Melbourne is bucking the trend for slow-downs with Melbourne Airport reporting its 27th consecutive month of international passenger growth.

Malaysia booms in value-driven market

23 February Malaysia continues its double-digit tourism growth despite the impacts of the Global Financial Crisis, as travellers flock to the country chasing new experiences and exceptional value.

OETG adds round the world specialists

23 February Orient Express Travel Group’s Express Ticketing has launched a dedicated agency quoting and ticketing service for Round the World (RTW) air fares.

The Best of France at half the pace

23 February French Travel Connection has released its signature tour for 2009, with a special deal for couples.

American Airlines cuts Aussie fares

23 February The trans-Pacific just got a lot more crowded with American Airlines offering a new discounted fare to coincide with the launch of its dedicated Australian website - AA.com.

Kimberley Moon tickets on sale

23 February Tickets for the 2009 Argyle Diamonds Ord Valley Muster and its pinnacle event, the Airnorth Kimberley Moon Experience go on sale today.

Hold the phone

20 February The debate over the popularity of in-flight mobile phone has ended, as Emirates clocked up its 100,000th inflight call, with a passenger calling from 36,000 feet enroute from Dubai to Singapore.

WA launches new domestic campaigns

20 February Tourism Western Australia has launched a new range of discounted domestic holiday packages designed to stimulate leisure travel within the state.

APT discounts peak season Canada-Alaska tour

20 February APT is offering discounted airfares on peak summer season Canada-Alaska tours this year with return economy class airfares of $999 from Sydney and $1099 from Perth.

Greyhound sells Canberra for $15

19 February 2009 Greyhound Australia has launched a new round of discounted seats between Sydney and Canberra.

APT offers last minute deals

19 February APT has released a range of last-minute discounts on select tour programs in Tasmania, Western Australia, Queensland and New Zealand, saving clients up to $1680 per couple.

Scenic Tours gets exclusive

18 February Scenic Tours has launched its new 2009-10 range of brochures offering special deals, new products, a range of exclusive experiences and unique cultural activities IN New Zealand.

APT offers new Kimberley brochures

18 February APT has released two new brochures for the Kimberley under the APT Kimberley Wilderness Adventures banner.

Tempo well placed for 2009

18 February Tempo Holidays was in good shape to withstand current conditions and take advantage of a stronger market, chief executive, Steve Reynolds told agents at a special launch event last night.

Rail Plus increases commission on Rocky Mountaineer

18 February Rail Plus has pumped up its 11 percent commission to 13 percent on agent sales of Canadian rail products, including Rocky Mountaineer, Whistler Mountaineer and associated packages.

AIME 2009 opens in Melbourne

17 February Australia’s premier meetings and incentives event, AIME, has opened its doors for 2009, with a Victoria’s minister for major projects, Tim Pallas MP, opening the two-day business-matching workshop, before a large audience.

Oman and Singapore open skies

18 February Tourism between Singapore and the Arabian Peninsular nation of Oman is set to grow following the signing of an Open Skies Agreement between the two countries.

More cars for Europe

17 February Car rental and leasing group, globalCARS, has released its 2009 brochure, outlining new options for self-drive holidays around the world.

Garuda Orient Holidays chases 18-30s

17 February Garuda Orient Holidays has revamped its product offering with a new holiday concept for 18-30 year olds – ‘Crowd Holidays’.

Australia in world top three

17 February Australia, Japan and Hong Kong have been listed as the top three destinations for travellers between now and 2010, according to a recent survey by Visa and Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA).

Golf stars swing into Perth

17 February Some of the world’s best golfers have arrived in Perth to tee-up in the Johnnie Walker Classic, which will be held at the Vines Resort and Country Club this week.

Movie drives tourists north

16 February APT has added six departures to its 13-day Kimberley Complete small group 4WD tour program to meet growing demand generated by the movie, Australia.

Hertz hikes rental rates

13 February Renting a Hertz vehicle just got $5 per day more expensive, following a national price increase by the car rental giant.

CWT Shows Solid Performance for 2008

13 February Carlson Wagonlit Travel (CWT) has released a report showing the group performed strongly throughout 2008 while adding significant enhancements to products and services.

Tourism gets behind bushfire appeal

12 February Despite tough times, Australia’s tourism industry is throwing its support behind the Victorian Bushfire Support Appeal.

Creative Holidays increases commission

11 February Creative Holidays has gotten on the front foot with a program to increase agent commissions on nominated airline bookings.

Europe deals from Emirates

11 February Travellers flying Emirates from Perth can now access some excellent fare deals to each of the airline’s 22 European destinations, with return economy fares to London, Greece, Italy and Germany starting from $1699 (excluding taxes) for travel until 24 February, and between 4 and 31 October.

DriveNow and save

11 February Rental car and campervan company, DriveNow, is offering $100 cash back on all Britz campervans booked before 31 March.

A Stella split

11 February Adventure World will discontinue its preferred arrangements with the Stella Group, after negotiations broke down last month.

Creative goes online

11 February All Creative Holidays brochures are now available for online viewing.

Hertz opens in Exmouth

11 February Hertz has expanded its presence in Western Australia, opening two new car rental locations in the coastal centre of Exmouth, gateway to the spectacular and increasingly popular Ningaloo Reef.

Qantas supports fire appeal

10 February The Qantas group has spread its charity to victims of the devastating bushfires, with a $100,000 donation to the 2009 Victorian Bushfire Appeal Fund to support individuals and communities affected by the weekend’s bushfires.

Tempo adds Prague incentive

10 February Tempo Holidays is offering a 10 percent discount for a second passenger on its 10-day Prague, Vienna and Budapest package.

NT tells travelers to get centred

9 February Tourism NT is leveraging on growing numbers of domestic tourists, with a marketing campaign to position Australia’s Red Centre as a ‘must see’ destination.

Kumuka offer cash guarantee

9 February Adventure travel specialist, Kumuka Worldwide, is offering a rare cash-back guarantee to ensure the best pricing for its tours.

Etihad increases Irish ties

6 February Etihad Airways and the Irish-Australian Chamber of Commerce have announced an agreement which will see the airline become the IACC's principal sponsor.

Hawaii and Las Vegas top spots to tie the knot

6 February Hawaii and Las Vegas has been named as the two of the top five places in the world for Australians to get married.

Virgin launches rock-star tour

5 February Virgin Atlantic and V Australia are running a fun promotion offering one lucky travel agent the chance to win a pair of tickets on a round-the-world flight. The joint trade incentive winner will also receive tickets to V Australia's exclusive ‘rockstar’ launch party with Sir Richard Branson.

Tempo adds Orient-Express

4 February Tempo Holidays has broadened its ‘high end’ experiences with the addition of Orient-Express hotels, trains and cruises in Europe.

2009 Red Bull Air Race ready to take off

4 February Fifteen of the world’s top race pilots, including four rookies will compete in the Red Bull Air Race World Championship in 2009.

UK car rental from $41 per day

4 February Car rental operator, globalCARS, is offering special car rental prices in the United Kingdom from $41 a day and $47 in France, for bookings before 28 February.

Gold Cairns welcomes Jetstar from Cairns

3 February Gold Coast Airport has welcomed the first inbound Jetstar service from Cairns, linking two of Queensland’s most popular holiday destinations.

Qantas puts shares in trading halt

3 February Share market volatility has seen Qantas request a two-day halt to its share trading as it undertakes “capital management initiatives” to address its sliding price.

BA’s Burr heads to London

3 February British Airways’ regional general manager, South West Pacific, Roger Burr, is set to depart Australia to take up a position at the airline’s head office in London.

Sea World new water park a summer hit

2 February Sea World Resort’s newly expanded water park has proven a summer hit following its opening last month.

Peregrine launches family program

2 February Peregrine has released its annual collection of world-wide, small-group adventures designed specifically for families, aimed at keeping interest levels up and exhaustion levels down.

APT extends China earlybirds

30 January APT has extended its earlybird savings for China for another month.

Conventions boost Tasmanian tourism

29 January It’s only six months into the financial year and Tasmania’s business events marketing body, The Tasmanian Convention Bureau, has already secured 153 percent of its annual target.

Greyhound to service regional Victoria

29 January The scrapping of restrictive transport legislation has allowed Greyhound Australia to open up its services within Victoria and drive tourism in the state’s regional and rural towns.

Whistler Blackcomb open for business

29 January Symphony Bowl and the Peak Chair on Whistler Mountain are officially open for 2009 with more than 7000 acres of skiable snow across the local mmountains.

ACCC crushes Air NZ plans

28 January Air New Zealand’s plans to work with Air Canada following a decision from the Australian competition watchdog (ACCC) which has declined approval for the airlines to cooperate.

Kangaroo Island in demand

27 January South Australia’s Kangaroo Island is defying tourism trends by positing its best-ever December visitor numbers.

Fiji recovers quick from floods

27 January Fiji’s tourism industry is making a speedy recovery from the severe flooding encountered across the country’s Western Division over recent weeks.

Tempo trials new online system

26 January After three years of development, Tempo Holidays is almost ready to launch its new purpose-built online reservations system.

Big savings on German motorhomes

23 January European vehicle rental specialist, globalCARS, is offering a five percent discount on rates for versatile motorhomes in Germany, for clients who book before 31 January 2009.

40 percent of African safari companions

23 January Africa safari specialist, Bench International, is offering a 40 percent discount for the second person when two people book a 13-night wildlife camping safari in Botswana on the 12 March itinerary.

Americans lap up US tourism events

22 January Americans have embraced Tourism Australia’s ‘Come Walkabout’ consumer events in Los Angeles, as the event prepares to move to New York.

PATA names forum speakers

22 January Organisers of the PATA Business Forum 'Discovering Opportunities in Tough Times' have named several high profile travel and tourism industry figures as guest speakers.

Melbourne flies into record books

22 January Melbourne Airport is defying the trends with a record number of passenger movements through its domestic and international terminals.

Fiji ups departure tax

21 January It appears Fiji’s government is in need of a financial top-up, with a decision to increase the nation’s departure tax.

Rail Plus offers chat room

21 January A new Live Chat link on Rail Plus’ website has passed its first week with flying colours.

Buckley stands by Australia

20 January They say the proof of a pudding is in the eating, and despite mixed reviews of the highly publicized movie, Australia, Tourism Australia managing director, Geoff Buckley, said the marketing promotions are showing results.

Burns leaves STA travel

20 January STA Travel is looking for a new managing director of Australia, New Zealand and Asia, with incumbent, David Burns, resigning from the company.

Western Australians urged to cycle the South-West

20 January More than 1500 participants have registered for the 2009 Great Escapade WA, a nine-day cycling tour through the South-West that begins on 28 March.

More resorts for Japan snow

20 January Japan’s snow resorts continue to grow with new accommodation and more ski services at Hirafu, which is becoming the epicentre of the Niseko region.

Outbound tourism continues to grow

19 January The much-publicised economic slowdown hasn’t deterred Australian travelers from heading overseas, with the latest arrival and departure figures showing outbound travel is up 2.3 percent.

AAT Kings offer couples savings

19 January AAT Kings has released a range of discounts for couples travelling to New Zealand.

NZ lures Aussie snow hounds

16 January New Zealand is preparing for an Aussie invasion this winter with bargain-hunting snow riders, who didn't travel to the Northern Hemisphere winter playgrounds, expected to head across the Tasman.

Driveaway increases motorhome options

16 January DriveAway Holidays has expanded its 2009 motorhome range with new suppliers and the introduction of new vehicles to its fleet. The new products are outlined in the company’s 2009 motor home brochure, which is due for release in coming weeks.

Evergreen launches new Western Australia brochure

16 January Evergreen Tours has launched its 2009 WA brochure with early payment discounts of up to $400 per couple on a range of holidays.

APT offers NT companion deals

16 January APT is offering a 30 percent discount on a companion’s tour price on any APT Red Centre, or Top End package, of two days or more.

Nancy Bird Walton dies at 93

15 January Qantas has paid tribute to the life of pioneering Australian aviatrix, Nancy-Bird Walton, who has died ON 13 January in Sydney, aged 93.

Insight pays 13 percent commission

15 January Insight Vacations is incentivising agents with a 13 per cent commission structure for its 2009 Premium Europe & Britain packages.

Grand Pacific tourist drive opens

15 January Almost 12 months after the first cars rolled down the bitumen, Wollongong’s Grand Pacific Drive has been claimed an outstanding success.

Perth set for convention boom

14 January Perth Convention Bureau has started 2009 off with two large national conferences wins, providing a financial bonanza for Western Australia.

Save big dollars on Europe lease packages

14 January GlobalCars is offering discounts of up to $700 on European car leasing contracts of 17 days or longer if booked before 31 March.

Tempo cuts rates on Chile and Argentina

14 January Tempo Holidays’ is offering savings of around $450 on its 18-day ‘Best of Chile and Argentina’ package for bookings made before 28 February.

AIME 2010 dates announced

14 January Dates have been named for Australia’s largest convention and incentive workshop, with AIME 2010 being moved to April, instead of the traditional February dates.

Robinson departs SriLankan Airlines

13 January SriLankan Airlines’ regional manager Australia /NZ , Ian Robinson, will depart the company this month after almost seven years managing the carrier’s sales and marketing activities in Australia and New Zealand.

Rail Plus posts Eurostar earlybirds

13 January Rail Plus has launched a new earlybird fare on Eurostar today with fares and availability shown live on the Rail Plus website.

The changing shape of travel

12 January There is a well known Chinese proverb (sometimes interpreted as a threat) that proffers: “May you live in interesting times.”

Tourism Australia looks for new boss

11 January Tourism Australia managing director, Geoff Buckley, has announced he will resign from his position on 30 June 2009.

Scenic Tours adds free flights to WA

11 January Clients can enjoy earlybird bonuses including free airfares on Scenic Tours Western Australia programs, saving up to $1320 per couple.

Strong international line up for AIME 09

8 January Exhibitors from more than 50 countries are expected to participate in AIME 09, which kicks off in Melbourne on 17-18 February.

New US rules begin

8 January From 12 January, Australians travelling to the United States will be required to comply with new border entry procedures that require visitors to pre-register for the US Visa Waiver Program before they travel.

Broome wants Jetstar

7 January As Jetstar ramps up its international services from Perth, Broome is pitching a bid for direct flights to Singapore.

Start your engine in Melbourne

6 January Those who like living life in the fast lane can take advantage of a special 2009 Formula One Australian Grand Prix package.

Bench adds choice for Africa

6 January Africa wholesaler, Bench International, is marking its 40th year with the addition of a range of new properties and itineraries to its recently released 2009 brochure.

Travellers vote to stay in Australia

5 January The plummeting Aussie dollar, global uncertainty and increased promotions of Australia’s domestic holiday products is driving a new wave of travellers, keen to explore their own backyard.

Emirates wins First Class Award

18 December Emirates has another trophy for the cabin after being named winner of Best First Class Airline at the annual Luxury Travel Gold List ceremony.

Report confirms tough domestic environment

17 December A new tourism report released today has confirmed what most industry members most suspected – it’s tough out there!

Big names for WA event calendar

16 December Greg Norman, Marat Safin and Lleyton Hewitt are among headline stars named within Western Australia’s 2009 events calendar, which was launched today.

Qantas and Woolworths join forces

15 December Qantas Airways and Woolworths Limited have teamed up to create one of the more unusual loyalty alliances, with shoppers earning redemption points while pushing a trolley.

APT gains green credentials

15 December APT’s Kangaroo Island Odyssey initiative has been recognised for its commitment to sustainability, with Advanced EcoTourism accreditation being granted for its 4WD touring program on the island.

Egypt and Nile packages discounted

15 December Bench International has launched a new round of promotional pricing for its six-night Egypt packages, which include three night’s cruising on the River Nile.

Naiade offers big savings on Mauritius

12 December Savings of $660 a person are now available on a seven night stay at a choice of Naiade resorts in Mauritius, for travel between 1 May and 9 September 2009.

Air NZ names revised biofuel test date

12 December After delaying its testing to concentrate on the recent loss of an aircraft and crew in the Mediterranean, Air New Zealand has announced a revised date for the world’s first commercial aviation test flight powered by a sustainable second-generation biofuel.

Bids open for cultural events funding

11 December The WA government has allocated a funding pool to encourage the development of significant arts and cultural events during 2009.

Big jump for Kangaroo Island car fleet

5 December Hertz has announced plans for significant expansion of its operations on South Australia’s Kangaroo Island, to accommodate strong growth in both domestic and international visitor numbers.

Air NZ gathers to remember crash victims

5 December More than 20 family and friends, together with Air New Zealand and government support teams have gathered on Canet Beach, France, to remember the five New Zealanders and two German pilots tragically lost in the Airbus A320 accident last week.

Perth Bureau notches up winning bids

4 December The Perth Convention Bureau (PCB) has secured six conference for WA, which are expected to inject around $10.15 million in the State economy.

Hawaiian cuts fuel charge

4 December Hawaiian Airlines will reduce fuel surcharges on fares sold in Australia, effective from Monday 8 December.

Big fluctuations in car rental prices

4 December A survey of competing car rental operators’ prices for vehicles in France, the UK and US has shown rices differ by as much as $174 for a week’s rental in France; $115 in the UK and $81 in the US.

Free nights at Radisson Fiji

4 December Radisson Resort Fiji Denarau Island has launched an earlybird booking promotion that adds two free nights accommodation.

Singapore Airlines adds more evacuation flights to Thailand

2 December Singapore Airlines will continue twice-daily flights between U-Tapao (a military airport approximately 200 kilometres from Bangkok) and Singapore until Friday 5 December.

APT launches NZ air-tour deal

2 December APT is offering a special deal on its 21-day Great New Zealand Experience tours, with discounted fares and business class upgrades.

Government launches Aviation Green Paper

2 December The much-awaited release of the Federal Government’s draft National Aviation Policy Statement (Green Paper) has been welcomed by the industry, with airlines providing initial support for the recommendations.

Bench revamps Middle East

1 December Bench International has completely revamped its entire program for the popular Arabian Gulf destination of Oman, with a new 24-page brochure outlining the company’s expanded Middle East program.

New strategy to support tourism during slowdown

28 November WA tourism minister, Liz Constable, has moved to minimise the impact of the international economic downturn on the WA tourism industry, following the release of a report which predicts a reduction in tourism spending in Western Australia during 2009.

Oodles expands international footprints

28 November Online car rental service, Oodles.com has expanded its footprint to now offer Australian travellers the ability to compare and book car rental rates in the United States, United Kingdom and New Zealand.

Greyhound chases corporate market

27 November As a sign of the times, Greyhound Australia, has launched a department dedicated to servicing Australia’s corporate transportation needs.

Australia creates global buzz

24 November They say the proof is in the pudding, and Baz Luhrmann’s much publicized big-budget movie, is reportedly putting Australia on the holiday map, as it makes big news around the world.

Creative Holidays launches new China program

20 November Creative Holidays has released its second consolidated China and Hong Kong program, which is available for travel in 2009 and 2010.

Townsville ramps for tourism growth

20 November Townsville is stamping its authority as a must-see destination, with an increasing numbers of international tourists visiting the tropical city.

JUCY named best for backpackers

20 November New Zealand car and camplervan rental company, JUCY Rentals, has been named NZ’s Best Transport Company at the recent TNT Golden Backpack awards.

Tempo sets sail with new Greece Turkey brochure

20 November Tempo Holidays has expanded its Mediterranean cruising program in its latest Greece and Turkey brochure.

Intrepid launches "Australia" - On Location' tour

19 November Riding on promotions for the upcoming movie, Intrepid Travel has launched a new "Australia" - On Location’ itinerary that explores the regions and experiences reflected in the movie.

APT launches earlybird deals for WA and QLD

19 November APT has launched a range of earlybird specials for its outback programs in Western Australia and Queensland.

Sicily is Tempo highlight

19 November Tempo Holidays has added a Sicilian Highlights adventure to its 2009 Mediterranean program

China Southern boosts Christmas flights

19 November China Southern Airlines will increase its frequencies to daily services between Sydney and China from 2 December until 15 February 2009, to accommodate increased demand in the peak Christmas and New Year periods.

Australia gets first Red Bull pilot

19 November Matt Hall has become the first Australian pilot to gain a position to compete in the Red Bull Air Race World Championship.

Stopover in paradise

18 November Clients looking to holiday overseas in 2009 can take advantage of Air Mauritius’ early bird fares to the UK and Europe.

PATA claims Asia Pacific victory

18 November The Asia Pacific continues to grow into its reputation as being one of the world’s hottest travel destinations with the latest research data showing record numbers of international visitors exploring the region.

Word of mouth brings in Queenstown visitors

18 November New research has shown more than half of visitors to Queenstown (NZ) are inspired to visit by the stories of friends and fellow travelers.

Johnnie Walker plays into Perth

17 November Some of the world’s most exciting golfers will be back in Perth in February when The Johnnie Walker Classic returns to Australia.

Start your engine in Melbourne

17 November Those who like living life in the fast lane can take advantage of a special Formula One 2009 Australian Grand Prix package, thanks to Keith Prowse Sport and Entertainment Travel.

New challenges for corporate hotels

17 November In its recently released 2009 Asia Pacific Corporate Hotel Rate Projections and Market Forecast report, American Express highlights a number of issues it believes will challenge hoteliers and corporate buyers over the next 12 months.

New spot for Perth Airport

17 November Visitors to Perth now have more choice when choosing a rental car thanks to the introduction of Red Spot Car Rentals to the Domestic and International Terminals.

Live free for a year

14 November Creative Holidays is offering agents the opportunity to live free for a year, with a little help from their latest agent incentive – the chance to win one of six fortnightly prizes of $2000, $10,000 worth of travel, or one major prize of $40,000, drawn at the end of the incentive period.

Buckley names finish date at Tourism Australia

14 November Tourism Australia managing director, Geoff Buckley, has named a date to depart TA, with an extension to his contract that will see him working through until 30 June 2009.

Hatton hangs up his hat

13 November The Australian Federation of Travel Agents (AFTA) has announced that its high profile chief executive, Mike Hatton, will retire at the end of this year, after 11 years of service with the industry body.

Bring on the Games says Britain

13 November The UK’s key tourism stakeholders, VisitBritain, and Visit London, have unveiled plans to welcome the world to the next Olympic Games and Paralympic Games in 2012.

AAT showcases premium WA

13 November Growing demand for quality Western Australian holiday product has prompted AAT Kings to create a blend of popular favourites and new experiences across the state in its 2009/10 Western Australia premium brochure.

WA launches ‘Australia’ campaign

12 November With the launch of Baz Luhrmann’s epic film scheduled for next week, Tourism Western Australia has launched its $2.2 million cross-marketing promotion.

Rail Plus packages Paris with hotel

12 November Rail Plus has released a special package which combines France Rail Pass and two nights in the three-star Hotel Marena in Paris.

Facelift for Shamrock Agent site

12 November Tourism Ireland’s travel industry website, Shamrock Agent, has emerged from a major rework to overcome some of the niggling problems associated with an ageing website.

Ireland to launch mega-roadshow

11 November Tourism Ireland is teaming with industry partner, Etihad Airways to launch its 2008 tourism roadshow.

Etihad early birds

11 November Etihad Airways has releases special discounted ‘Early Bird’ fares for 2009.

Tourism Australia targets Malaysia

11 November Tourism Australia is targeting Asia’s lucrative business events market, with the launch of the 2009 Team Australia Business Events Educational (TABEE), which will be held in Kuala Lumpur between 2-4 March 2009.

Tasmania named among world’s best

11 November Tasmania has ranked highly in the recent Condé Nast Traveller’s Reader’s Choice Awards.

Explore rail bargains

11 November Explore Rail has launched a range of bargain-priced BritRail adventures, with low season specials cutting 20 percent off a variety of BritRail passes.

Banff-Lake Louise open for Canada ski

10 November The Canadian Rocky Mountain resorts of Lake Louise and Mt. Norquay have become the first ski areas to open in Canada, following a fresh cover on top of consistent early snowfalls.

Peregrine offers Polar price guarantee

10 November Adventure travel operator, Peregrine, has announced it will freeze fuel and currency surcharges on its 2009-2010 Antarctic voyages.

Savings on African adventure

10 November Bench International has discounted more of its Africa product, with a $600 per person savings on a range of selected departures on overland adventures with Kiboko.

Jetset Travelworld signals profit warning

7 November Only months after its acquisition by Qantas Holidays, Jetset Travelworld Group has signalled an expected drop in profit as a result of global financial turmoil and the deteriorating exchange rate of the Australian dollar.

KEA offers half price agent rates

7 November In recognition of the huge support of its travel agent and wholesale partners, KEA Campers is offering Australian agents up to 50 percent off campervan and motorhome discounts throughout December and January.

Big Savings on Africa safaris

7 November Africa safari specialist, Bench International, is offering last-minute savings of $385 per person on a selected range of Africa safari holidays at the Honeyguide tented camps in South Africa’s Manyeleti Game reserve.

Tahiti and Bora Bora on a budget

7 November Accor Hotels has teamed up with Tahiti Travel Connections to offer two great holiday packages to explore Tahiti and her islands without breaking the bank.

Rowing to Mauritius

6 November It may be a case of sky-rocketing fuel prices, but a group of rowers are about to embark the journey of a lifetime – rowing from Australia to Mauritius.

APT tops up Tassie discounts

4 November APT has increased discounts on two of its Tasmania tours scheduled for early next year, with couples now saving up to $700 on their tours.

Free agents tickets for Africa

4 November The Africa Safari Co is offering a Christmas cash incentive for travel agents as well as the opportunity to win airline tickets to explore the destination.

Red Bull wings into Perth

3 November Under a cloudless sky, Britain’s Paul Bonhomme scored a determined victory in the final race of the Red Bull Air Race World Championship in Perth yesterday.

Hertz triples points for Europe

3 November Global car rental giant, Hertz, is offering Qantas Frequent Flyer members the opportunity to earn triple points when renting cars in the United Kingdom, Ireland and Europe.

Etihad celebrates the ‘Mo’

3 November Etihad Airways has partnered with ‘Movember’ to raise funds for men’s health issues, with a focus on prostate cancer and male depression.

Poly Blue launches seat sale

30 October Virgin blue subsidiary, Polynesian Blue is celebrating its third birthday with a seat sale that is offering one-way fares between Apia (Samoa) and New Zealand and Australia from $123.

UTracks grows against the trends

30 October Self-guided tour operator, Utracks, is reporting a doubling in its business across Europe and will expand its 2009 program by 25 percent to meet demand.

InterCon supports careers expo

30 October InterContinental Hotels Group(IHG) was the major presence at this year’s Association of Australian Hotel Schools (AAHS) Hospitality Careers Expo, which was held recently at Redfern’s Technology Park in Sydney.

Ski offers more bang for Aussie buck

29 October With the looming cloud of financial uncertainty, many Australian families re-considering their overseas holiday travel plans.

King named as new President

29 October Long time tourism identity, Paul King, has been elected as the new President of Tourism Council WA.

Red Bull pilots fly in

29 October Perth’s Langley Park will be today officially opened as the Red Bull Air Race World Championship runway with all twelve race pilots flying in and landing for the first time this year.

WA launches new tour guides course

28 October Delivering consistently high levels of service is always a challenge for tour operators, with guides operating independently – and often far away from supervisors.

Rail Plus welcomes first rail earlybirds

27 Octobre Rail Plus innovative earlybirds have one month to run with special fares set to close on 27 November.

Rotorua-Australia flights for mid-year

27 October Direct flights between Australia and New Zealand’s central North Island city of Rotorua could start as early as June 2009 with the district council approving the NZ$8.4 million extension and upgrading of its airport to international status.

Red Bull Air Race to stay in Perth

27 October Western Australia will retain rights to hist the Red Bull Air Race for another three years following a state government agreement to continue support for the event.

Qualmark marks 15 years

24 October New Zealand’s official tourism rating system, Qualmark, has celebrated its 15th anniversary with more than 2100 tourism operators nationwide now using the accreditation system.

New global business boss for South Africa

23 October South African tourism has increased its focus on business tourism with the appointment of a dedicated Global Manager for Business Tourism.

Dreamworld opens after dark

23 October Gold Coast theme park, Dreamworld, is turning into a scream park with a special after dark opening on 7 November. The park will open for a special after dark session from 6.30pm to 10pm with special ticket prices and group booking packages.

CWT chases Carbon Neutral goal

23 October Global hotel giant, Carlson Wagonlit Travel (CWT), has signed a global agreement with the leading carbon offset and climate consulting firm, The CarbonNeutral Company, to provide emissions management services to CWT clients.

Trafalgar offers more Europe

23 October European specialist, Trafalgar Tours has released its new 2009 Europe & Britain Brochure, offering a comprehensive program featuring eight styles of touring.

ITB Asia opens

23 October Asia’s travel trade has moved into a new era with the opening of the region’s largest travel trade show, ITB Asia, at the Suntec Singapore International Convention and Exhibition Centre.

End of season car specials

22 October European car leasing specialist, globalCARS, is offering some great specials with end-of-season vehicle deals on Renault and Citroen products in France.

More awards for Gold Coast

22 October Gold Coast Airport continues to fly high after walking away with the best airport marketing award for the Asia Pacific region.

Sydney named world's best

20 October Sydney has been voted the number one city in the world for the 13th time at the prestigious Conde Nast Traveller Awards in New York.

Hertz adds triple point bonus

17 Ocotber Hertz has launched a new deal offering Qantas Frequent Flyer members a triple point bonus when renting cars in the United Kingdom, Ireland and Europe between 28 October 2008 and 31 July, 2009.

Airlines cut fuel charges

17 October With oil prices dropping to around US$70 per barrel, airlines are responding by dropping their fuel surcharges, making travel more affordable.

New schedule for Air Tahiti Nui

16 October Air Tahiti Nui will introduce new daylight saving schedules from Australia to Tahiti, effective from 26 October.

Demand forces Garuda Indonesia to open longer

16 October Last week’s release of special launch fares to celebrate Garuda Indonesia’s return to the Brisbane Bali route, has generated a rush of enquiries to the airline’s Sydney-based reservations department.

Creative Holidays takes on Uniworld river cruises

16 October Creative Holidays will begin selling selected Uniworld boutique river cruises through its ‘iCreate’ portal, adding further functionality and options to the trade booking engine.

Solomon Islands celebrates Pacific Blue services

15 October Solomon Islands Visitors Bureau has welcomed the move by Pacific Blue to launch flights to the Solomon Islands from Brisbane.

Green Globe lightens the load

15 October Environmental benchmark organisation, Green Globe, has launched a new online program to help organisation’s measure their performance.

NZ coach specials

15 October APT has savings of $950 per couple on its 18-day Royal Tourer Premier tour in New Zealand.

Tempo adds more Greece

14 October Greek island hopping has been given a boost in Tempo Holidays latest brochure with a 10-day Mykonos and Santorini package.

Emirates Terminal 3 gears for growth

14 October Emirates has opened its new mega-terminal (T3) in Dubai which has been designed to manage the regional doiuble-digit passenger growth into the future.

Cash Passport sales tipped to rise

13 October With the Australian dollar falling, travellers are moving quickly to lock in the current exchange rate before the dollar loses even more ground.

Record profit for Travellers Choice

13 October Travellers Choice retail group has announced a record trading surplus of $212,599 for the 2007-08 financial year, jumping more than 40 per cent on last year's net profit.

US Winter ready for business

9 October While chaos reigns in Wall Street, optimism is high in the Colorado Rocky Mountains, about the forthcoming winter at the mega ski resort of Vail in Colorado.

Qantas cuts fuel surcharge

9 October With fuel today down to US$90 per barrel, Qantas has announced a reduction in its international fuel surcharges.

Save $1000 on NZ touring

9 October APT is offering savings of $1000 per couple ($500 per person) on its popular 21-day Great New Zealand Experience Premier Plus tour.

Bikers head to WA south

9 October Western Australia’s southern forests are set to host hundreds of competitive and recreational mountain bike this month, when they set out on the inaugural Cape to Cape MTB Challenge.

Tempo tastes Amalfi coast

8 October Italy’s charming Amalfi Coast is the subject of special attention from Tempo Holidays with two new packages.

Black box secured from QF72

8 October Investigations are continuing into the mid-air emergency aboard QF72 yesterday which saw the aircraft dispatch a MayDay call before making an emergency landing in the northwest township of Learmonth.

Qantas makes emergency landing in WA

Qantas has suffered another mid-air emergency with QF72 flying between Singapore and perth decalring a Mayday before amking an emergency landing at Exmouth airport in Western Australia’s North West cape.

GA releases Brisbane-Bali launch fares

6 October Garuda Indonesia has marked the re-commencement of its Brisbane-Bali services with a launch fare of $940 return, including taxes.

Rail Plus sells Amtrak pass

3 October Australia’s biggest supplier of rail, Rail Plus is selling the new Amtrak USA Rail Pass.

Fiji goes back to the future with new CEO

3 October Former Fiji Islands Visitors Bureau CEO, Josefa Tuamoto, is set to return to his old past in the dual roles of Chief Executive and international director of marketing.

Etihad opens new Sydney office

3 October Etihad Airways has officially opened the doors to its new Sydney Head Office.

October bargains with KEA

3 October KEA campers has launched a new last-minute special for Australian travellers cutting 25 percent off New Zealand rentals during October.

New deals from Norfolk Air

2 October Norfolk Air has expanded its services, with the launch of a new weekly service into the Gold Coast to tap into one of Norfolk Island’s strongest markets.

Amtrak adds flexible rail pass

2 October Amtrak has released its new 2008-09 US Rail Pass offering more flexibility and options for Australian travellers to enjoy intercity rail services.

Kids ride duck for free

1 October Popular Gold Coast aquatic tour – Adventure Duck - is offering free rides for kids aboard its amphibious vehicle.

Dreamworld offers early entry tickets to Big Six

30 September Gold Coast theme park, Dreamworld, is offering thrill seekers an advanced rush on some of the tallest and fastest thrill rides in the world, with a new $10 surcharge to access the park early.

Cut price business and first class fares

30 September Direct Flights International has packaged a new range of business and first class fares flying with Emirates into Europe.

School holidays powder at Treble Cone

29 September New Zealand’s Treble Cone ski area lies blanketed in snow after a massive dump of fresh powder.

Emirates offers special fares for Europe

25 September Emirates has launched a round of promotional fares to Europe, with prices starting from $1898 return ex-Perth. Taxes are additional.

Qantas puts FF float on holding pattern

24 September Qantas has postponed the public float of its frequent flyer program as a result of the current market conditions.

Airtrain flying high

23 September Brisbane’s Airtrain has left its shaky beginnings behind, with the popular airport rail link carrying a record 1.64 million passengers over the financial year while writing a $4.8 million profit.

APT cuts fares for Canada and Alaska

23 September APT has launched a new range of airfares and discounted packages for its Canada and Alaska products.

Walshe expands portfolio

22 September NZ-based Southern Holdings Travel – parent to The Walshe Group – has expanded its New Zealand product with the acquisition of inbound operator, Experience New Zealand Travel.

Snow falls on Perisher Blue

23 September After 16 weeks of snow, Perisher Blue is still reporting falls, with management now expecting the season to ski through until 6 October.

Malaysia jumps 50 per cent for Australians

22 September Malaysia continues to increase its share of Australian travellers, with the nation enjoying a massive 50 per cent jump in August arrivals.

Mark Vaile joins Virgin board

22 September Former deputy prime minister, Mark Vaile has joined the board of Virgin Blue Holdings Limited as a non-executive independent director.

Continental adds Guam stopover

22 September Continental Airlines has introduced a new range of stopover packages to tropical Guam in exotic Micronesia, with process starting from A$55 per person twin share per-night.

Car lease special extended

19 September GlobalCARS has extended its leasing specials to now allow for collections up until 3 June 2009.

Lacaze takes hold of Stella

19 September Former Transonic boss, Peter Lacaze has taken over as chief executive of Stella Travel, following the 16 September resignation of Keith Stanley.

Tickets on sale for Socceroos match

19 September Tickets packages are still available for the Australia versus Qatar match which will be played out at the Brisbane Stadium on 15 October.

Qantas unveils new crew uniforms

18 September Qantas is set to launch a new version of its cabin crew uniforms to coincide with the commencement of its A380 flights in October.

OETG teams with Pinpoint

18 September Orient Express Travel Group has signed an agreement to team with the Pinpoint Travel Group’s Freestyle holiday programs.

Travel seminar outlines the future

17 September The Association of National Tourist Office Representatives (ANTOR) is hosting a special 'The Future of Travel' seminar in Sydney on 24 September to discuss the range of vital issues facing the tourism industry midst a changing, fragile environment.

Royal Brunei slashes fares

16 September Royal Brunei Airlines has teamed with online discount travel agent, Direct Flights International, to offer special low return fares from Perth to London starting from $1242 return, including taxes.

Tourists undeterred by Thai turmoil

16 September The localised nature of the demonstrations – which are concentrated around Bangkok’s government precinct – are considered to present little risk to visiting tourists.

APT offers more Kimberley

12 September Growing demand for Northern Australia wilderness experiences has seen APT combine popular favourites with a new range of experiences across Australia’s north west.

Tourism beginning to hurt in Thai stand-off

11 September The prolonged political stand-off in Thailand is starting to impact tourism.

Low season BritRail deals

9 September Rail Plus is offering 20 percent off British rail passes for the 1 November –28 February low season.

Red Centre draws water lovers

8 September Alice Springs has again hosted one of the world’s most extraordinary sporting events, with the ‘sailing’ of the quirky Henley On Todd dry river regatta last month.

Formula One around the bend

8 September The world’s first Grand Prix night race - the inaugural 2008 Formula 1 SingTel Singapore Grand Prix - is just a few twists and turns away, with the action kicking off after dark on 28 September.

China beyond the Olympics

8 September China is set to become the world’s number one tourism destination by 2014, with cities large and small across the nation already attracting climbing tourists numbers.

Tempo roams the Rhone

3 September Tempo Holidays’ has launched a new nine-day self-drive Wine Route tour through the Rhone Valley, designed for independent travellers keen to explore the region’s vineyards (wine) and the countryside.

Tempo adds more Egypt

2 September Tempo has increased product in its latest Total Egypt package to include Alexandria, Cairo, Abu Simbel, cruising the Nile and Lake Nasser and World War II battlefields at El Alamein.

Car leases rates on hold

2 September GlobalCars has put its lease rates on hold for bookings made on Citroen vehicles in Europe.

Budget opens in Vietnam

2 September Fueled by a booming visitors’ market in Vietnam, Budget Rent A Car, has opened its doors in Ho Chi Minh City.

Guangzhou shows off tourism potential

28 August As one of China’s major southern gateways, Guangzhou, is promoting its tourism potential as an emerging stopover destination for travel throughout China.

US car rental from A$48 a day

27 August Car rental car operator, globalCARS, is offering discounted rates on car rental in Los Angeles, New York and San Francisco from $48 a day for bookings made by 30 September.

Post-Games packages released

26 August Orient Express Holidays has released three post Olympic Games packages, starting from $1309.

Free return air on Top End rail

25 August Rail Plus has launched a new rail package offer which includes free return economy class flights.

New brochure for Outback Discovery

25 August The Kimberley, Top End, Cape York and the Nullabor are covered along with Outback Queensland, WA Spring Wildflowers, Tasmania Wilderness as well as Kangaroo Island and the Flinders Ranges.

New look for Brisbane Airport

25 August Virgin Blue is just days away from revealing a major upgrade of its check-in area at Brisbane domestic airport.

Travel Japan on track

22 August Travel Japan has launched discounted pricing on all seven, 14 and 21 consecutive day Japan Rail passes.

Sky-high recommendations

22 August Singapore Airlines has added a new feature to its KrisWorld inflight entertainment, with US film critic, Leonard Maltin, sharing his recommendations and movie reviews.

Jetset rings up big profit

21 August Riding on the back of its recent annual conference and Qantas Holidays merger, Jetset Travelworld (JTG) has reported a massive jump in profits for the financial year, clocking up $15.3 million after tax – which is up 32 percent on the previous year.

Amadeus launches ‘no-disruption’ training

20 August Automation technology provider, Amadeus, has launched a new training system allowing Australian travel agents to undertake the latest Amadeus training courses directly from their desk.

APT offers Tassie deals

20 August APT is cutting the price of its Gourmet Adventurer small group tours in Tasmania by between $350 to $400 per couple, for bookings made before 31 October.

Qantas names new CFO

20 August Qantas Airways chief financial officer (CFO), Peter Gregg, has resigned his role and will also step down as a member of the airline’s board on 30 September 2008.

Save $700 on car leasing

20 August Car lease operator, globalCARS, is offering savings of over $700 on a 21-day lease for travellers to Europe.

Grand Pacific Drive open for tourists

19 August Almost 12 months after the first cars rolled down the bitumen, one of New South Wales’ most scenic highways was officially opened this week, with Federal Tourism Minister Martin Ferguson.

Bargains on Germany motorhomes

19 August Discovering Europe by motorhome is gaining momentum as a self-drive travel option, with GlobalCars packaging a new range of affordable campervan options that will allow travellers to explore Europe at their leisure.

NZ ski resorts break three-metre mark

18 August New Zealand’s central North Island ski resorts of Turoa and Whakapapa, on Mt Ruapehu are reporting massive snow falls, with more than three metres dumpled so far this year.

Tempo continues to build Mid East

18 August A huge 36 percent jump in forward bookings for Middle East and Gulf States products is being reported by Tempo Holidays product manager Jeremy Hearst, as the company launches its latest Egypt and Dubai brochure.

Red Spot moves into Perth Airport

15 August Red Spot Car Rentals is expanding its airport presence with the company approved for the formal grant of an on-airport licence at Perth Airport.

SAA flies Adults for Kids prices

15 August South African Airways (SAA) has launched a range of discounted economy-class airfares for flights to South Africa, with adults charged at children’s prices.

Snow dump for Queenstown ski areas

15 August Snow falling down to lake level has brought smiles to the faces of skiers and snowboarders in Queenstown, many of whom are enjoying a fantastic, blue ski powder day at Coronet Peak and The Remarkables today.

Oman eyes Australian potential

14 August A record year of tourism growth and increases in direct air services between Australia and the Arabian Gulf was all the Oman Ministry of Tourism needed to give the green light to a major tourism drive designed to capture more of the Australian market.

Terminal WA underway

14 August The first stage of Perth Airport’s $1 billion redevelopment is underway with commencement of works on the new Terminal WA aircraft-parking apron.

Small World opens in Hong Kong

14 August Disneyland Hong Kong continues to add to its collection of classic attractions with the recent opening of one of Disney’s all-time favourites – It’s a Small World.

Singapore streets roar into F1 action

13 August Singapore will rewrite motor racing history next month when it hosts the world’s first Formula One night Grand Prix.

Esperance proves its credentials

13 August Ongoing tourism promotions and increased awareness of the destination, has seen the South West coastal township of Esperance enjoy a massive 23 percent jump in holiday and leisure visitor numbers.

Passengers say no to mobiles

12 August Safety, affordable fares and a ban on mobile phones are the top priorities for Australian airline passengers, according to a survey conducted by online travel agent, Direct Flights International.

Dry river boat race draws visitors to the Red Centre

12 August Adventures to Alice Springs have been amazed once more with the spectacle of locals ‘sailors’ hosting their extraordinary Henley-On-Todd dry river regatta.

Youth passes next big rail seller

The booming youth travel market is fuelling growing demand for rail travel across Europe, with Rail Plus ranking ‘youth rail passes’ as its big selling item for the 2009 northern summer.

Tempo gets wet in Brazil

12 August Tempo Holidays has packaged a new experience that will meet the needs of even the most hard-core nature-based traveller.

Understanding research and strategies

12 August With the world awash with information, the challenge for marketers, researchers and planners is to cut through the clutter to find that nugget of gold that heralds a business opportunity in the making.

Buller reaches magic metre

11 August Mt Buller is enjoying a 20 centimetres powdering of fresh snow bringing the natural average snow depth past the magic one-metre mark.

Etihad expands Victoria team

11 August With the upcoming launch of new Melbourne flights, Etihad Airways, has appointed its new state manager Victoria, Tasmania and South Australia, with Jon Marshall taking on the role.

Emirates installs in-flight mobiles

6 August Despite mixed feelings among passengers, Emirates has becoming the first airline to introduce in-flight mobile phone services on a Boeing aircraft.

Malaysia numbers still on the rise

5 August Malaysia continues to attract international travellers to its shores with a 2.6 percent increase in cumulative arrivals to Malaysia between January and June 2008 when compared to the same period last year.

Qualmark Green underway

5 August New Zealand tourism operators have a new environmental and social benchmark from today with the new Qualmark Green accreditation being implemented.

Norfolk Island hosts international golf challenge

5 August Norfolk Island is set to host the second annual Governor’s Cup, an international teams event offering $10,000 worth of prizes.

Hospitality industry feels economic bite

5 August Rising costs and falling share prices brought about by the downturn in the economy are forcing businesses to reassess their travel expenditure, resulting in the Australian hospitality industry having to cater for a new client - the ‘budget executive’.

Big savings for Botanica launch

4 August The new Botanica World Discoveries 2009 brochure has been launched with discounted Europe airfares and discounts of up to 50 percent for some travellers.

South West airport consultants appointed

4 August Growing tourism to Australia’s southwest has seen Tourism Western Australia appoint a consultant group to investigate the need for an airport in the region.

Hot Japan ski deals

1 August Japan Holidays has launched the ultimate ski package to the picturesque snow-white slopes of Hakuba Valley, in the heart of Japan.

Hash brings $12.5 million into WA

31 July Western Australian enjoyed a $12.5 million windfall with the hosting of international running event - Interhash 2008 in march this year.

Tempo adds France to Anzac Day choice

30 July A seven-day package from Paris to the battlefields of Villers-Bretonneux and seven Gallipoli tour options are being offered in Tempo Holidays’ new stand-alone Anzac Day 2009 mini-brochure.

Bookings open for AIME 2009

30 July Priority bookings are now open for Australia’s premier meetings and incentives conference, AIME 2009.

Viva! Holidays opens China gateway

29 July Viva! Holidays and Cathay Pacific have joined forces to open the China market to Viva! Products.

Hertz brings online check in to Australia

29 July Hertz has introduced a new online check-in service for customers in Australia to make speed up vehicle delivery times.

GSR ups fuel surcharge

28 July Great Southern Rail is set to increase fuel surcharges for its The Ghan, Indian Pacific and The Overland services.

Water levels high for white water classic

25 July High water levels are set to make next weekend’s 36th annual Brookfield Multiplex Avon Descent a thrilling, fast-paced event, with plenty of white-water action.

Fiat joins Sixt in Sydney

24 July Fiat and Sixt Car Rental have joined forces with the addition of new Fiat 500s to its Sydney fleet.

Sydney Airport hits back at fees

24 July Sydney Airport’s chief executive has hit back at calls by Regional Express (REX) to freeze aeronautical fees, saying the airline should check its records.

ITB Asia sold out

23 July Asia’s largest travel industry event has sold out months before it opens, with organisers of the inaugural ITB Asia closing sales of floor space.

New program for working holidays

23 July Award-winning touring & training company Global Gypsies has added a practical new feature to its website -a free guide for nomads seeking part-time, temporary or voluntary work during their travels.

Bavaria heads Tempo Christmas program

23 July Bavaria heads up Tempo Holidays European Christmas program for 2008.

Tomatoes anyone?

21 July Imagine one small street in a tiny Spanish town, packed with over 20 000 people prepared to spend a solid hour slogging each other with tomatoes. Sounds crazy but it’s true. On the last Wednesday in August each year, the town of Buñol plays host to La Tomatina - one of the world’s most bizarre and messiest festivals.

APT launches garden tours

21 July APT has launched a series of product briefings to agents following the release of its latest joint venture - Botanica World Discoveries gardening tours.

Malaysia gets two UNESCO sites

21 July The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization’s (UNESCO) World Heritage Committee has inscribed the historic cities of Melaka and George Town, Penang, on to the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Jetset sale approved

17 July Jetset, Qantas Holidays and Qantas Business Travel are set to merge with Jetset Travelworld Limited (JTG) after shareholders approved the proposed merger.

Bargains on Germany motorhomes

15 July Explore Europe at your own leisure with a range of special deals on motorhome.

Hotel rooms stay open during gas shortage

15 July Its business as usual for Western Australia’s hotel industry despite the state’s gas shortage.

Qantas commits to Jetset-QH merger

12 July After a week of tension, Jetset Travelworld (JTG) and Qantas Holidays have confirmed the parties will proceed with their merger plans, following a commitment from Qantas Airways to make additional marketing payments to Qantas Holidays to support destination marketing activities.

Creative Holidays finds fame at NTIA Awards

12 July Creative Holidays was voted Best Wholesaler, International for the fourth year running at the recent National Travel Industry Awards, confirming its position as one of Australia’s leading wholesalers.

OETG companies reconstruct to one

12 July The divisional companies of Orient Express Travel Group have consolidated to now trade under the umbrella company Orient Express Travel Services P/L (OETS).

Las Vegas gets new brand

12 July The Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) has launched a new international brand marketing strategy to support a program that is designed to expand Las Vegas’ global reach.

Hong Kong jumps again

11 July Latest visitor figures show Hong Kong’s tourism industry continues to boom.

Frost win Tourism NT creative tender

11 July Frost Design has been reappointed as Tourism NT’s creative agency for the next three years supplying creative, brand and advertising services to promote the Northern Territory as a tourist destination.

LTM Travel changes name

6 July LTM Travel Management, the corporate arm of the Leggett Travel Group, is being rebranded to Concierge Business Traveller, effective July 1.

More snow for NZ South Island

10 July New Zealand is enjoying a bumper start to its snow season with 25 centimetres of fresh snow at Mt Hutt, 15 at the top of Coronet Peak and 10 at the peak of The Remarkables, as wintry storm fronts continue to dump snow across New Zealand’s premier South Island ski areas.

Zimbabwe tourism pleads for business

10 July Tourism operators on the Zimbabwe border are pleading with tourists to continue visiting the Victoria Falls region, despite the political turmoil brewing across the country.

CX fined for cargo breach

9 July Cathay Pacific Airways has entered into a plea agreement with the United States Department of Justice (DOJ) in connection with the ongoing investigation relating to air cargo services.

More snow for NSW ski fields

6 July Snow continues to fall across the New South Wales ski resort areas at Perisher Blue, Blue Cow and Smiggins Holes, with more than 30 centimetres falling over recent days.

ITB comes to Asia

4 July The world’s largest travel trade event, ITB, has spilled over its borders and into Singapore as the event builds its brand around the world.

Rail Plus makes Platinum Ghan offer

3 July Rail Plus has released prices for The Ghan’s new Platinum service, launching 10 September.

APT offers $1000 Kimberley deal

3 July Savings of $1000 per person are being offered by APT Wilderness Adventures on some of its small group 4WD Kimberley holidays during August and October this year.

Tempo offers Brazilian beach party

3 July Tempo Holidays has created a package for beach lovers taking in the fun and colour of Rio de Janeiro’s Copacabana and Ipanema beaches with the less frenetic beaches of Buzios.

Tempo Holidays goes to Cox & Kings

2 July After a false start several years ago, Susan and Gary Hearst have found a buyer for their family business, Tempo Holidays.

Save dollars on African Safari

1 July African safari experts, Bench International, are offering discounts of $160 per person per night at a range of eight top class camps and lodges in the Upper Zambezi Basin of southern Africa.

New South East Asia adventure

1 July Wendy Wu Tours is offering a package that visits modern cities and local village markets with a chance to experience a mix of cultures in northern Thailand and Laos.

Big savings on Africa rail

1 July The Africa Safari Co are offering huge savings on an upcoming Shongololo African Rail Safari.

Travellers Choice launches national brand campaign

30 June Travellers Choice has announced plans for its first-ever national dedicated brand campaign.

Bonus nights and car for Norfolk Island

24 June New packages to Norfolk Island have seen a range of value-added bonuses to entice travellers.

Queensland gets tilt train fare cuts

24 June QR Traveltrain has released a range of heavily discounted winter fares on its Bundaberg to Brisbane Tilt Train services.

World Cars slashes rental rates

24 June World Cars merger with car rental giant Auto Europe will pay big dividends for Australians with international car rental rates slashed.

Seven steps to Malaysia

23 June Tourism Malaysia has launched a free online course on Malaysia to assist the travel trade to better understand and sell the destination.

Speeding up British Rail

22 June The competition between high-speed rail and short haul airlines is set to intensify across the United Kingdom and Europe with rail operators looking to expend their rail networks three-fold over the next 12 years.

Flight Centre forecasts profit growth

18 June Flight Centre Limited has increased its profit guidance for the current financial year with continued healthy sales growth across its global network.

WA chases working holidaymakers

17 June Western Australia’s tourism and hospitality labour shortage has seen the government launch an innovative new online campaign to attract young working holidaymakers from the United Kingdom.

Tempo offers the best of Oman

17 June Five nights at the five-star Chedi Muscat and one night at the recently opened Desert Nights camp are the features of Tempo Holidays’ six-day Oman Luxury Adventure package.

Australia pins hopes on Australia movie

17 June With international tourist numbers predicted to fall in the near future, Australia’s tourism officials are pinning their hopes on the new Baz Luhrmann movie, Australia, to revive the nation’s tourism image.

Fuel prices place global prosperity at risk

16 June Global economies will be at risk if airlines are forced to dramatically reduce their operations and close important routes, according to the Asia Pacific’s peak tourism industry association.

ATEC: Australian tourism facing disaster

16 June Australia’s peak tourism industry body, the Australian Tourism Export Council (ATEC) has come out for the second time in a few days portraying tourism as an industry facing impending disaster.

$1 Campervan deals

16 June Travellers who want to try out campervanning will love a new website offering vehicle relocations for only $1 per day.

Big savings on Kenya

16 June As Kenya emerges from its recent turmoil, the nation has launched some exciting specials to lure travellers back to the east Africa heartland.

ATE kicks off in style

15 June The southern hemisphere’s biggest travel trade show has launched with more than 2300 delegates descending on Perth for the week-long event.

Big savings on China

15 June Wendy Wu Tours is offering discounts of more than $480 per couple on a China Experience tour for January, February or March 2009.

China Southern flies earthquake Pandas to safety

10 June China Southern Airlines has mounted an unusual mercy mission, airlifting eight giant pandas from the devastated Wolong region of China after the recent earthquake.

Creative adds Disney deals to the US

10 June Creative Holidays has released special Disney Family Fun air and land deals priced from $2225 per person, twin share.

European rentals from $31

10 June International car rental specialist, globalCARS, has released vehicle rental rates of from $31 for European rentals of 25 days or more.

Hatton gets Queen’s honour

9 June After decades of hard work and service to the Australian travel industry, Australian Federation of Travel Agents (AFTA) chief executive officer, Mike Hatton has been recognised in the Queen's Birthday honours list.

GCBazaar goes off with a bang

9 June Surfers Paradise added some more excitement to its already vibrant lifestyle, with the launch of the annual GCBazaar which kicked off with a spectacular fireworks display last Saturday.

Save on European Christmas packages

9 June Globus has launched a new range of discounted programs for travellers seeking a European winter.

Trafalgar goes early for Europe 09

6 June With client demand for earlier bookings at an all-time high, Trafalgar has released its Europe & Britain 2009 Summer Preview brochure - a first for the company, featuring 73 first class holidays, giving clients the ability to save big by booking their 2009 trips early.

Fiji lays hopes with Bula

4 June Fiji's annual travel trade event, Bula Fiji Tourism Exchange (BFTE) opened today with hope the industry is on track for recovery.

Trafalgar launches new eLearning modules

4 June Trafalgar has launched the latest modules in its popular eLearning program for travel agents, after positive feedback on the initiative.

Kenya recovers

4 June Relaxation of travel advisories to Kenya over recent months has seen tourist traffic to the east African nation enjoy a rapid return to normal, according to Flight Centre’s public relations manager Australia, Margo Shearer-Smith.

Creative enhances iCreate

3 June Creative Holidays has added further functionality and enhancements to its trade booking engine, iCreate to provide consultants with the ability to book international internal flight sectors with Creative Holidays without having to contact reservations.

Qantas cuts “devastate” Whitsunday tourism

3 June Qantas’ decision to cut back its services to Queensland has left Whitsundays tourism operators devastated with air capacity to the region cut by around 20 per cent.

ATEC: Fuel and dollar squeezing tourism

3 June Australian Tourism Export Council has issued further warnings of the grim and fragile nature of Australia’s tourism industry, with ATEC managing director, Matthew Hingerty referring to the industry as a “slowly-unfolding disaster at the hands of escalating fuel costs and a soaring dollar”.

Quarantine upgrades for Perth

2 June Western Australia has boosted its quarantine presence at Perth’s domestic airport with upgraded services and a new look for quarantine officers and their dogs.

A&K launch extreme adventures

2 June Global travel company Abercrombie & Kent (A&K) has launched its Extreme Adventures collection, with a portfolio of 18 expeditions.

Travellers Choice grows Victoria

2 June The addition of three new travel agency outlets has pushed national retail travel group Travellers Choice past the magic 40-member mark in Victoria, making it the second state to top 40 member agencies.

Shooting wildlife in Africa

30 May The Africa Safari Co will be hosting its first fully dedicated photographic safari to South Africa later this year, with a tour escorted by a renowned wildlife photographer and photographic technical advisor.

Club Med releases new ski brochure

30 May Club Med has refurbished nine of its ski resorts in the last three years and launched a new brochure in a bid to offer Australians the best value ski experience in Europe and Japan.

Sabre Pacific launches booking site

30 May Sabre Pacific is launching a new booking website to address the rapidly increasing need for niche travel options.

Tempo Selects the style in Dubai

30 May Tempo Holidays has combined ultra-luxury landmark hotel, Burj Al Arab, with Emirates’ Al Maha Desert Resort and Spa to create a six-day beach and desert getaway in Dubai.

Accor recruiting graduate management trainees

30 May Global hotel group, Accor, is seeking up to 30 hospitality, business or tourism graduates to fill positions in its mid-year intake of their Graduate Management Trainee (GMT) Program.

Johnnie Walker Classic swings into Perth

30 May Some of the world’s best golfers will vie for more than $2.5million in prize money at the Vines Resort and Country Club next February, when the Johnnie Walker Classic returns to Western Australia.

More Africa options

29 May Overall sales of South Africa, Namibia and touring product featuring Victoria Falls are once again tracking well for Australian wholesaler, African Traveller.

APT adds free nights to WA tours

29 May Australian Pacific Touring is offering two free nights city accommodation on two of its West Australian coach tours.

Carve up NZ powder with Contiki

28 May Contiki thas launched a new range of holiday options for New Zealand with a seven-day Ultimate Winter Adventure capturing the best sites of the South Island.

AAT Kings adds new NT experiences

28 May Growing demand for high quality nature and Aboriginal heritage products has seen coach tour specialist, AAT Kings, launch an exclusive new campsite on Labelle Downs Cattle Station, within the spectacular surrounds of Litchfield National Park, an hour south of Darwin.

TRENZ welcomes the world

27 May New Zealand’s largest annual tourism business event kicked off yesterday in Rotorua, with Tourism Rendezvous (TRENZ) opening its doors to some of the world’s most biggest travel buyers for four days of business matching and contracting.

AOT joins TXA online alliance

27 May Major whoelsae group, AOT Group, has become the be the first Australian wholesaler to become a point of sale for Australian product via the newly created Tourism Exchange Australia (TXA), increasing the availability of e-commerce enabled Australian product to all distributors linked to the TXA.

Gold Coast approves plan for future

26 May Gold Coast Tourism and Gold Coast City Council has confirmed it will progress its plans to move into Year Three of its Five Year Plan for Tourism, which has delivered record visitor numbers for the region.

A South Aussie affair

26 May The South Australian Tourism Commission (SATC), in conjunction with Qantas Holidays, has launched a winter campaign called ‘Holiday Affairs’, designed to entice more visitors to the state during winter.

Modest growth for Australia

26 May After a slow start to the year, Australian inbound tourism has recovered slightly in February, according to recently released figures from the Australian Bureau of Statistics.

Get ready to shop

23 May Back for its the 15th consecutive year, the Great Singapore Sale is set to turn Singapore’s streets and malls into a shopper’s frenzy when it launches today for its eight week season.

More snow for NZ Alps

23 May Treble Cone Ski Area was again blanketed in snow this morning thanks to the cold front currently hitting the south of the south island.

Million-dollar campaign for WA travellers

26 May Western Australian tourism industry officials are set to launch a million-dollar advertising campaign to get Western Australians to holiday within their own state.

New directors for Bench

26 May African safari operator Bench International has appointed two new directors who will play key roles in a major expansion program being planned by the company.

Snow blankets NZ Southern Alps

23 May Snow continues to fall on Queenstown’s ski areas, with Coronet Peak and The Remarkables covered in more than a metre of powder.

Captain Cook goes whale watching

23 May Captain Cook Cruises is set to launch its popular whale watching cruises from Sydney.

On track for success

22 May Great Southern Rail (GSR) has announced that ticket sales are now open for the new Platinum Service on The Ghan departing Adelaide for Darwin in September.

Sabre Pacific launches new booking site

21 May Sabre Pacific is launching a new booking website to address the rapidly increasing need for niche travel options.

Conventions head to WA

21 May A rush of bid wins in the past two months has seen the Perth Convention Bureau (PCB) secure 10 conferences that are expected to deliver an estimated 10,960 delegates and a $26.42 million delegate spending bonanza for the state.

Rail Plus launches Eurostar special

20 May Rail holiday wholesaler, Rail Plus, has launched a peak season special on Eurostar for travel between London, Paris and Brussels.

Euro Disney birthday heralds change

21 May Paris Disneyland has used its 15th anniversary as an opportunity to introduce new products and an increased focus on attracting Australians to its European playground.

Corporate travel remains robust

21 May Australia’s strong corporate travel sector is forecast for sustained growth, according to senior economists, airline officials, industry technologies and industry partners at the recent Travelscene American Express Corporate Symposium 2008 in Bangkok.

Business travellers driving fares up

20 May Claims of slowing air travel and skyrocketing fuel prices has done little to kerb demand for business class seats, which have jumped four per cent in the first quarter of 2008.

Bali seats in high demand

20 May Bali tourism has leapt up by another 44 per cent, according to the latest Australian Bureau of Statistics data released last month.

ATE: Inside Australia’s biggest tourism event

19 May Imagine a convention centre packed full of exhibitor booths, with around 2700 travel buyers and product sellers all frantically negotiating deals and contract pricing. Stretch this out over seven days and you have the foundations of the Australian Tourism Exchange (ATE).

Advisories upgraded for Beijing Olympics

19 May With less than 100 days to go before the Beijing Olympic Games opens on 8 August, the Chinese Government has been dealt another blow with the US State Department issuing a warning that there is a heightened risk of attacks during the Games and that extremist groups might conduct terrorist acts within the country in the near future.

GlobalCARS adds GPS option

19 May International car hire and leasing operator, globalCARS, has introduced a global positioning system hire service for its customers renting vehicles in nearly 20 countries in Europe, the US, Canada, Australia and New Zealand.

Globus adds commission bonus

19 May Globus is offering Australian and New Zealand agents an extra one per cent commission for booking its Globus or Cosmos tours online.

Germany tourism event sets new record

19 May Riding on the back of its 2006 World Cup tourism success, Germany continues to set new records with its recent national travel industry event – Germany Travel mart – attracting a record number of delegates.

AFTA elects new Board

16 May The Australian Federation of Travel Agents has announced the result of elections for its 2008 Board of Directors.

New CX deals for Hong Kong

16 May Cathay Pacific Holidays has released a range of ‘stay four nights/pay for three’ with rooms at some of Hong Kong’s most famous hotels, including The Peninsula Hong Kong and The Luxe Manor boutique hotel.

Globetrotter takes corporate win

16 May Corporate travel management group – Globetrotter – has been awarded the 2008 Family Business Australia First Generation Award, in recognition of its contribution to community lives, economy and culture.

New fines for ambush marketing

15 May The Western Australian government is drawing a hard line against ambush marketing at major sporting and entertainment events, launching new legislation with penalties of up to $250,000.

GCCEC takes three in a row

15 May The Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre (GCCEC) team is partying after the facility packed its mantlepiece with another major award at the recent National Meeting and Events Industry Conference in Alice Springs.

Fiji gets ultimate indulgence

Holidaymakers looking for an indulgent tropical island escape will find it in a new Fiji package designed to create the ultimate short break getaway.

Hertz sells hybrid sedans

15 May Hertz Australia is selling a batch of ex-rental models of its Toyota Prius hybrid fleet directly to the public.

Budget hits tourists

14 May The Australian Tourism Export Council (ATEC) has slammed the recent Federal Budget stating it targets inbound tourists and treats international visitors as “cash cows”.

Good numbers for Fiji Bula

14 May About 650 delegates are confirmed to attend the 13th annual Bula Fiji Tourism Exchange (BFTE), which starts on 4 June.

Sea World helps fight cancer

14 May Channel Nine celebrities Eva Milic and Abby Marchwicki will be star sippers next Thursday as Sea World Resort supports the Cancer Council for their annual Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea celebrations.

Creative launches new Hong Kong deals

14 May Creative Holidays has released a new range of air and land deals to Hong Kong priced from $1391.

Bonus points for Europe

13 May Trafalgar is promoting Austria, Switzerland and Germany during May and June with a special Rewards Points bonus on new bookings of selected 2008 First Class Trafalgar tours.

Scuba specials for South Pacific

13 May Scuba divers can explore the reefs and shipwrecks of the South Pacific with three 2009 itineraries that take advantage of the region’s underwater beauty, while saving around US$600 per person.

Tourism Australia names creative short list

13 May Tourism Australia is seeking new creative direction with current agency, M&C Saatchi, noticeably absent from the recently released short list of creative agencies to win the bid.

Perisher launches early season snow

13 May Cold nights, early snow and favourable forescasts have seen the Perisher Blue team begin snow-making operations a week earlier than planned.

Earlybird deals for Canada & Alaska

12 May Record demand has seen tour operator, Scenic Tours release its 2009 Canada & Alaska holidays program and earlybird specials one month earlier than planned.

APT launches C