Latest travel news.

Worldwide travel news and events to keep you up-to-date, whether it be new hotels, new airline routes or new spas, we will have it here. Updated monthly.

Power problems in Zanzibar.

Power problems in Zanzibar have led to generator power only. The outtage is likely to last untill the end of August.

Dominion Republic fraud.

Credit card fraud in the Dominion republic continues to surge, particularly amongst expats. Travellers are being told to avoid using any type of credit or debit card.

Tibet open.

All domestic tourists are invited back to Tibet now the Olympic torch has past through.

New Roman Forum charge.

For the first time in 10 years - to pay for further work - there will be a charge to enter the Roman Forum. it will be included in a single ticket comprising the Colosseum and Palatine Hill.

The authorities will also be opening the Palace of Emporer Augustus atop Palatine Hill, after decades of restoration. 

Jakarta, Indonsia, drink-spiking problems.

Indonesian police report an increase in drink-spiking. Men are being targetted in clubs and nightspots. Tourists are being warned to make sure that any bottled beverages served are sealed and opened in front of you. 

Tourist robberies in Barbados.

Two separate groups of tourists groups on guided tours have been held up at gunpoint whilst holidaying in Barbabos. Police believe they have identified the perpetrators.

New B.A 'open-skies' routes unveiled.

The US-EU BA subsidiary 'open-skies' have announced daily flights from New York to Brussels and Paris. Flights will start from June this year and use existing 757 aircraft. 

New Germany - India routes.

Lufthansa will be launching a three times weekly service from Munich to Mumbai from May 3rd, using an Airbus A340-300. Their Frankfurt to Calcutta service will be increased from three to five times a week from June 3rd, bringing the total number of weekly flights, to six Indian destinations, at fifty.    

Problems in Kenya.

Essential travel only, is now recommended for all trips to Kenya.

Big names in Beijing.

The heart of Beijing - the central China district - now beats with two more big names; both the Ritz Carlton and JW Marriot opened state-of-the-art hotels last November.

Mandarin Oriental for Milan.

The first Mandarin Oriental brand hotel to open in Italy, will be on the Via Monte di Pieto in Milan, the expected opening date 2010.

New US routes from Heathrow.

The fight for the world's most lucrative air route will heat up this month when America's Delta Air Lines teams up with Air France to take on British Airways at Heathrow.
The two airlines, part of the Skyteam alliance, are set to announce their first-ever transatlantic flights from the London airport. Delta is likely to serve New York, Atlanta and one other American city, with Air France studying a Los Angeles service.
Competition has been restricted at Heathrow for 30 years by a treaty between Britain and the US that stipulated that only four airlines - BA, Virgin, United and American - could fly to the US from Britain's largest hub. However, an open skies deal between the EU and US agreed earlier this year will see the restrictions scrapped from the end of March.

Speedbird new flights to NY.

British Airways is to announce details of 'Project Lauren' - its new flights from continental capitals to America - in late November or early December. An organisation called Project Lauren has begun advertising online for suitable pilots. The 'airline within an airline' will start with two Boeing 757 aircraft, operating flights from two European cities to New York. It is understood that the flights will be 'premium only', but that this could mean business and first, or premium economy and business.
Industry sources said the new operation might not be branded as BA, with speculation mounting that it would be called 'Speedbird'.

New aircraft delayed.

Boeing has announced that its new 787 Dreamliner jet will be delayed by six months, as it struggles to assemble the revolutionary new aircraft prior to testing and certification. The aircraft maker said that first deliveries of the aircraft will now be in late November or December 2008 rather than May 2008.

Crete resort opens after refurb.

Following a 25 million euro refit the Out of the Blue, Capsis Elite Resort is pleased to offer a luxurious breaks at its breathtaking new spa. The Euphoria Rejuvenating Spa at this brand new upscale & VIP holiday destination in Crete, Greece, is now open for visitors.

 
Emirates Palace opens new spa.

The new Anantara Spa at the Emirates Palace, Abu Dhabi is located in the West Wing of the Palace, and blends Middle Eastern opulence with Asian elegance and treats guests to an unsurpassed experience of luxury, serenity and wellness. The Spa features 7 stunning rooms and suites, which are available for single or double occupancy. The decor combines soothing water elements, soaring arches and domes to create a luxurious retreat.

New spa at Fiji Islands resort.

Jean-Michel Cousteau Fiji Islands Resort is introducing its new spa bure and two spa packages.
The resort’s new open-air spa bure overlooks the pristine Savusavu Bay and was designed by the resort’s general manager, Karen Taylor. To celebrate, the resort is offering two extended spa packages, Tropical Treat and Pacific Paradise, which bring together several complementary treatments inspired by Fiji’s lush tropics and warm hospitality.