Wallace urges Australians to drink local

Winemaker Tom Wallace is urging Australian wine lovers to give local sparkling wines a go over the festive season.

With cool-climate sparkling wines from Tasmania earning global attention, Wallace is encouraging drinkers to sample wines like his Pirie range.

Wallace is marketing “a truly Australian celebration” as an alternative to Champagne.

"Pirie is made from 100% Tasmanian grapes from our vineyard in the Tamar Valley,” Wallace says. “Our cool climate produces grapes with incredible acidity, giving the wines a unique tension and persistence that forms the backbone for excellent sparkling wine."

Wallace is passionate about crafting exceptional sparkling wines that showcase the unique terroir of Tasmania.

“What excites me most about making Pirie is the opportunity to capture the essence of Tasmania in every bottle. The cool climate and pristine environment contribute to the distinctive character of our wines."

The Pirie range includes Pirie NV ($35), above, and Pirie 2020 Vintage ($55).

“Forget Champagne this Christmas and do yourself a favour and celebrate with award-winning Tasmanian sparkling that everyone will enjoy,” Wallace says.

The Pirie range is named after regional wine icon Dr Andrew Pirie. See pirietasmania.com.au

Small Wonder gets a lot bigger

Overstory, owners of Tamar Valley wine brand Small Wonder, has announced the acquisition of a 24-hectare vineyard in the Coal River Valley. 

The strategic acquisition just east of Richmond and 20 minutes from Hobart marks a significant milestone in the company’s growth and expands its footprint into another of Tasmania’s most celebrated cool-climate wine regions.

Small Wonder, known for its premium organic wines and formerly known as Goaty Hill, recently opened a new state-of-the-art winery in January 2024. 

The acquisition of the Marengo Road vineyard in the Coal River Valley will enable Overstory to double its production volume in Tasmania over the next three years, allowing for portfolio expansion and growth in both domestic and international markets.

Fruit from the vineyard has previously been used by premium producers including Bubb and Pooley.

"We are thrilled to broaden our presence in Tasmania and take this next step in enhancing the quality and variety of our wine offerings,” said Paul McArdle, CEO at Overstory.

"Consistent with our approach at our Tamar Valley location, we are committed to achieving organic certification for the Coal River Valley vineyard over the next three years, reinforcing our commitment to sustainable, high-quality winemaking practices."

The recently acquired vineyard, planted between 2017 and 2019, features a diverse mix ofbcool-climate varietals, with predominantly pinot noir and chardonnay along with small amounts of shiraz, riesling, pinot gris and viognier.  

Overstory says the purchase cements “the company’s position as one of Tasmania’s leading producers of cool-climate wines”. 

I co-incidentally tried two excellent Small Wonder pinots this week. The future looks bright. 

Major milestone for a hotel with a 200-year history

 

One of Tasmania's most historic hotels will celebrate a milestone next year.

Luxury boutique hotel The Woodbridge Tasmania will mark the riverside building's 200th year in early 2025.

The Governor of Tasmania, Her Excellency The Honourable Barbara Baker AC and other dignitaries have been invited to mark the occasion at the grand mansion on February 2.

Hand built by convicts in 1825, on the riverbank at New Norfolk as a home for the first Constable/Magistrate of the fledgling colony, The Woodbridge is one of Australia's oldest historic houses.

Now a private hotel, The Woodbridge takes guests back in time to the colonial era - and it is just 30 minutes from Hobart.

Restored by Laurelle and John Grimley, who bought the property in 2003, the heritage-listed mansion was in a state of disrepair when the Grimleys first set eyes on it.

The couple stumbled upon the derelict Derwent Valley icon during a Tasmanian holiday.

" I am a Duchess of Duke Street and Downton Abbey tragic," says "and have seen the BBC series Pride and Prejudice so often that I can quote it verbatim!"

The Woodbridge offers delightful river views, a rich history, and a relaxed style.

Guests are well located to visit nearby Mount Field National Park, wineries including Derwent Estate and Stefano Lubiana, and just a 10-minute stroll to The Agrarian Kitchen for a long lunch.

The entire project was funded by the Grimleys personally without any government or Heritage funding.

"We realised that if The Woodbridge was to have a future, then it had to be able to pay its way," Laurelle said. 

"So we tried to combine the historical elements of The Woodbridge with the modern amenity required by today's guests."

For more info visit www.woodbridgenn.com.au

Enjoy a luxury hotel experience for $50 - without booking a room

Fancy spending some time poolside at a luxury hotel with access to a sauna and drinks from a pool bar?

From now until March 31 you can soak up some Melbourne sun (local weather permitting) at the Melbourne Marriott Hotel Docklands without even being a hotel guest.

With views of Port Philip Bay and with $12 Aperol Spritzes on offer, the rooftop infinity pool can be accessed by buying a weekday Pool Day Pass.

Sunset House is an urban oasis where you can escape the city hustle and enjoy music, food and those Aperol Spritzes.

'Sunset Hour', running daily from 4pm to 6pm, offers those $12 cocktails.

The weekday Pool Day Pass provides access to the outdoor infinity pool, (always at 28c) and use of a complimentary towel, access to a sauna and the rooftop lounge bar for $50 per person.

Alternatively, bring company with the Pool Day Pass package for two people with a large pizza to share, accompanied by two cocktails for $120.

For more info, or to book, visit marriottmelbournedocklands.com or melbournemarriottdocklands.realtimereservation.com/

Festive-season Bangkok is the city of light

Bangkok is even more colourful than usual over the festive season.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has just launched the Bangkok Illumination Festival 2024, which will run through to January 5, 2025.

Running daily between 6-10pm, the festival features light and art installations.

"The year-end is a special time for Thailand, filled with the joy of celebrations and an abundance of events nationwide," said Minister of Tourism and Sports Sorawong Thienthong.

"The Bangkok Illumination Festival 2024 beautifully highlights Thailand's position as a world-class event hub, combining vibrant artistry and cutting-edge innovation in night-time tourism.

"This event not only promises unforgettable moments for visitors but also underscores our efforts to stimulate economic growth and showcase the country's creative potential."

Visitors are invited to enjoy nine city landmarks, each filled with installations and light displays.

There are three routes that capture the essence of the fun, featuring dance hotspots, a picturesque canal adorned with colourful light displays, and a picnic experience in Benjasiri Park.

Shack up with a new drinking buddy in Byron Bay

The Shack, a new bar concept, has officially opened its doors at Beach Hotel Byron Bay. 

It's a nice-looking imbibing destination, offering "a laid-back yet sophisticated place for locals and visitors" to enjoy the sun and sea breeze. 

Located across from Byron’s Main Beach, The Shack has relaxed beachside vibes in a hot location. 

The Shack’s menu has been designed to complement a range of beers, wines, and cocktails with classics like Pina Colada, Strawberry Daiquiri and Spicy Margaritas and options like the new Naked 'n Famous (I'm scared to ask).  There are some nifty boutique wines by the glass. 

The Shack’s menu has a focus on sharing plates with flavours from the Mediterranean, Asia, South America and Australia. 

Offerings include include lobster tacos with mango hot sauce, salmon crudo with stone fruit, and octopus skewers glazed with gochujang and sesame. For a snack, maybe a pulled pork sausage roll with apple mustard. 

The Shack interiors have been imagined by local designer Shantala Mack and are inspired by hand-built beach shelters. 

“Our menu at The Shack captures everything we love about coastal dining - bold flavours, fresh ingredients, and a sense of togetherness," says Ben Turner, general manager of food at Beach Hotel. 

"We’ve created dishes that not only showcase great produce but also encourage guests to connect, share, and enjoy themselves – this is what ‘The Beachy’ is all about! Pair any of our plates with a refreshing cocktail or an ice-cold beer, add the ocean breeze, and you’ve got the ultimate Byron Bay experience.”

The Shack at Beach Hotel Byron Bay is open daily from midday until late. Beach Hotel is located at 1 Bay Street, Byron Bay. See https://www.beachhotel.com.au/the-shack/

Images: Jessie Prince

This is what it smells like when pigs fly

Passengers on board a KLM flight from the Netherlands to Mexico City had an unpleasant experience this week when the plane had to be diverted due to the stench caused by pigs being transported in the cargo hold.

The Boeing 787 Dreamliner flying from Amsterdam was forced to divert to Bermuda after 100 live pigs created such a stench that it affected the “oxygen environment” in the cockpit.

The pilots of KLM Royal Dutch Airlines flight KL685 were forced to contact air traffic control around six hours into the transatlantic flight with an unusual request to make an unscheduled stop in Bermuda due to what the Captain described as “obnoxious cargo.”

Passengers onboard the 12-hour flight were apparently unable to cope with the porcine farts.

The flight had 259 passengers and crew onboard with 100 live pigs stashed in the hold.

A spokesperson for Skyport, the firm that runs Bermuda’s LF Wade International Airport, told media the diversion was caused by “the distinctive aroma of 100 pigs travelling in the cargo hold.”

A KLM spokesperson said the flight was diverted as "a standard precaution".

Once the plane landed on the island, passengers and crew were processed through immigration and sent to local hotels, where they stayed for 26 hours as a result of the diversion.

In the meantime, the pigs were transferred to a holding area and the plane was cleaned.

A government inspected the animals and the piggy cargo was cleared to fly once again.

The flight reportedly landed in Mexico City a full 26 hours behind schedule.

Forget humans: AI to the rescue of travellers

Remember when a human being was on hand to answer your queries at an airport?

Now you need to have a mobile phone, a QR code and to rely on Artificial Intelligence to point you in the right direction.

Glasgow Airport has officially launched an AI-powered digital assistant, powered by Hello Lamp Post, to help streamline the travel experience for passengers this festive period ,news portal Travel Mole reports.

The new AI-driven technology is now live across the airport, and is designed to provide real-time information and enhance navigation throughout the terminal 24 hours a day.

The digital assistant was initially introduced as part of an accessibility trial earlier this year in partnership with Connected Places Catapult.

The trial showed a 50% reduction in queries being received by customer service staff. So fewer jobs for humans.

Following the success of the trial, Glasgow Airport collaborated closely in partnership with Hello Lamp Post to refine and expand the tool’s capabilities.

Accessible via location-specific QR codes, the digital assistant serves as a “personal concierge”, offering up-to-date flight information, navigation assistance, and “tailored passenger support”.

The tool aims to make travel easier and creates an inclusive experience for all accessibility needs. And, of course, it will save money.

Jamie Loudon, Group Head of Operational Solutions at Glasgow Airport said: “We take great pride in providing excellent service to the tens of thousands of special assistance passengers who travel through our terminals each year.

“Working with Connected Places Catapult on a trial earlier this year proved invaluable in helping us roll out this cutting-edge technology across the airport for all passengers.”

Tiernan Mines, Co-Founder and CEO of Hello Lamp Post, added: “We’re really pleased that the success of our initial trial has now led to the full rollout of our platform at Glasgow Airport.”

Hello Lampost; Connected Places Catapult? Whatever happened to real business names? 

Sims stands down, but will bounce back

You might not know the name Dan Sims.

But if you've attended a Pinot Palooza or Mould - A Cheese Festival event then you'll have enjoyed his work.

Sims, whose latest business iteration was as part of REVEL Global, has been hailed as man who "re-invented wine events in Australia".

The livewire marketer helped make wine and food events fun again - and sold a whole lot of wine and cheese along the way.

Sims announced this week via LinkedIm that he is "stepping away from all things REVEL Global, Pinot Palooza and Mould"

His post said:

"At a briefing in Melbourne the other week I said 'Since that first crazy idea of Pinot Palooza back in 2012 and then MOULD in 2017 (and all the others!), we’ve come together and celebrated the best of our collective industries. 

"We’ve come together in collaboration, not competition and made it not just our mantra but a code. A true belief.

"Together, the festivals of both Pinot Palooza and MOULD have grown and grown with tens of thousands of people joining across the country and overseas.

"And as a result, they’ve grown above and beyond any one brand or producer and certainly, beyond any one person.

"To have been a part of this, to witness this, and to lead it has been the greatest privilege of my professional career.”

Sims has handed the reins to Jessica Audas.

"She’s fully taken on the REVEL ethos of ‘giving a shit’ and cares deeply for all who take part; producer, supplier and punter alike," Sims said.

"She's gonna nail it.

"I’m so bloody proud of her, the team, and the empowered culture we’ve built as a result and I trust all will support her with the care and respect she deserves."

Sims paid tribute to Justin Dry and the Vinomofo team, who backed the return of the festivals post-Covid.

"They truly saw our potential, backed us and allowed us the space - and critical support - to keep us going as we reimagined festivals post-Covid."

Sims says he will take "an extended break to rest, recoup and focus on my health".

But fear not, he has some ideas in the pipeline. And the former sommelier, writer and show judge will continue in his role as chair of Wine Victoria.  

And I notice there is a website  https://www.dansims.com.au/ coming soon.   

Emirates boosts direct Melbourne flight schedule

Emirates is introducing a third daily non-stop service between Dubai and Melbourne, starting from March 30.

The third service will be operated with a newly retro-fitted four-class Emirates Boeing 777-300ER.

It is equipped with both premium economy and new-generation business class seats.

The airline already operates two non-stop daily flights between Dubai and Melbourne using four-class Airbus A380s, as well as a daily flight that connects Dubai to Melbourne via Singapore with a Boeing 777-300ER aircraft.

But the Emirates’ flights between Singapore and Melbourne will cease on March 30, news portal Travel Mole reports.

The aniline now plans to operate the third direct Dubai-Melbourne flight and a fourth Dubai-Singapore service with new flight numbers.

A third daily non-stop Melbourne flight means more convenient schedules and choice, with connectivity and travel options via Dubai to 27 European cities including London, Paris, and Frankfurt.

Emirates’ latest refurbished Boeing 777 includes eight first classs suites, 40 business class seats, 24 seats in premium economy, and 256 economy class seats.

The airline’s business class seat converts to a flat-bed.

Every business customer has aisle access with the four abreast layout. Customers will also be able to enjoy their own personal mini-bar, table for dining or working, and multiple charging outlets.

The good mail on McLaren Vale

Anyone planning to visit the vineyards and cellars doors of McLaren Vale and the Fleurieu Peninsula will want to get their hands on the new-release 10th edition of The McLaren Vale & Fleurieu Coast Visitor Guide.

The launch coincides with the opening of new experiences and attractions, and the region collecting a flurry of national and international awards.

Fancy staying in a geodesic domes with sweeping valley views; or sipping on a cold beverage in architecturally designed tap houses, distilleries or cellar doors? Or perhaps a long lunch overlooking vines?

Or maybe you'd like to enjoy a wander around the Willunga Farmers Market, take to the skies in a vintage biplane, or meander along the Route 31 Coastal Drive, taking in spectacular beaches and coastal villages?

The new guide provides all the info visitors need about events, tastings and accommodation in one of the most picturesque regions in South Australia - just 40 minutes from Adelaide.

The guide's release comes after a year during which McLaren Vale wineries and winemakers have taken out awards in Paris, Germany, London, Switzerland and Italy.

The 10th edition of the visitor guide showcases the view from the cellar door deck of Chandlers Hill winery Main & Cherry on the front cover.

The new McLaren Vale & Fleurieu Coast Visitor Guide is available from visitor information centres and visitor hotspots including hotel foyers, car hire locations and the Adelaide Airport, as well as locations along Victoria's Great Ocean Road.

Order a copy from the McLaren Vale and Fleurieu Coast Visitor Centre or view the guide online at https://www.mclarenvaleandfleurieucoast.com.au/plan/visitor-guide

New flavours add appeal to the Streets of Barangaroo

Sydney's lively waterfront Barangaroo precinct is a popular summer location with some added appeal on the way.

The Streets of Barangaroo is set to welcome four new venues this summer, adding more variety to what has become one of the city's premier waterside dining destinations.

Anita Gelato, Vietnamese restaurant Annamese (above), Haven Coffee and Yo-Chi frozen yogurt are the newcomers.

Three of the retailers - Anita Gelato, Annamese and Haven Coffee - will be the first venues to open as part of the recently completed luxury residential development, One Sydney Harbour.

The One Sydney Harbour building will feature a total of eight new retail venues when complete, with the final five new retailers set to join the precinct in late 2025.

Joining the One Sydney Harbour retailers, Yo-chi has opened its flagship Sydney store at The Streets of Barangaroo.

Yo-Chi launched in Melbourne in 2012 and has become Australia’s most popular frozen yogurt brand in just over a decade.

“One Sydney Harbour is the final piece of the precinct and offers more than just buildings; the development is part of the vibrant Barangaroo community," says Brett Rochford, project director at One Sydney Harbour.

"The Streets of Barangaroo has established itself as a prime foodie destination and we can’t wait to see these new venues offer locals, workers and visitors even more variety for quality dining and lifestyle experiences.”

Haven Coffee in Barangaroo opens today and is the fourth outlet for the specialty roaster.

The newest location of Anita Gelato will overlook Hickson Park, while Annamese is a Vietnamese eatery from the team behind popular venues Phamish and Muum Maam.

Accor's big plans: from Albania to Singapore and Cabramatta

From Italy to Cabramatta (above), global hotel giant Accor is stepping into 2025 with a number of of new hotels, resorts and experiences.

Accor has a frightening 45+ hospitality brands, ranging from luxury to economy, and employs over 330,000 people.

Here are some of the 2025 start-ups that caught my eye: 

LUXURY

La Dolce Vita Orient Express is an opulent 'slow travel' experience, created by Accor and Arsenale SpA - the first Italian venture in luxury rail hospitality. With regional and thematic voyages throughout Italy, guests will be treated to menus created by three Michelin-starred chef Heinz Beck.

Orient Express La Minerva is a heritage hotel in the heart of Rome and will be the brand's very first hotel anywhere in the world. It will offer 93 rooms and suites in the former Palazzo Fonseca, a restored 17th-century palace.

Raffles Sentosa Singapore will be building on the brand's legacy in Asia. The 62-villa resort overlooks Tanjong Beach on the southern tip of Sentosa Island. The resort will have lush tropical gardens.

Fairmont Golden Prague will become the first Fairmont in the Czech Republic. Located in the heart of the Old Town at the gate of Parížská Boulevard and on the banks of the Vltava River, this 320-room heritage-listed landmark building is scheduled to open early in 2025.

Green Coast Hotel - MGallery Collection in Albania is located close to the town of Berat and the UNESCO World Heritage site of Butrint. Tucked among a haven for wildlife, sea caverns and hidden bays it will have 112 guest rooms and a modern design,

LIFESTYLE

25hours Hotel The Olympia will be Australia's first 25hours Hotel and Sydney's newest boutique hotel. The name pays tribute to the building's art house beginning as the Olympia Theatre. The hotel will offer 109 guest rooms, including three themed concept suites, with each room featuring exclusive artwork by Sydney artist Kubi Vasak.

Mama Shelter will arrive in Asia for the first time and upon opening Mama Shelter Singapore will become the brand's 20th establishment. Think 110 rooms and a rooftop with a pool offering views of the Singapore skyline.

PREMIUM

Swissôtel Bucharest in Romania will be the tallest hotel in Bucharest, residing in a 278-foot-high building on Expoziţiei Boulevard, near to Romexpo, the largest exhibition and event centre in the country. The hotel fwill eature 224 rooms and suites across 27 floors, with a rooftop restaurant, bar and lounge with panoramic city views.

MIDSCALE & ECONOMY

Novotel Sydney Cabramatta (top image) will have 140 rooms and suites in the heart of Little Vietnam. Guests can start their day with breakfast at Primitivo, enjoy steaks and wines at Dany's Kitchen, indulge in modern Asian cuisine at District 8, and unwind by the hotel's outdoor pool and pool bar.

TRIBE Auckland Fort Street will be the brand's first location in New Zealand. Think 60 compact but comfy guestrooms featuring the latest technologies, a lobby bar and social hub. As a design-driven hotel, common areas will be the focal point.

ibis Styles Tallinn will introduce the ibis Styles brand to Estonia following an extensive renovation of an existing 124-room property.

See https://all.com

How to conquer jet lag when you fly long distances

Jet leg is a familiar foe for many frequent flyers. 

One of Australia's leading travel insurers, nib Travel, has shared its tips to help travellers beat jet lag and arrive at their destination feeling refreshed. 

nib Travel’s tips include pre-flight preparation, smart in-flight choices, and arrival hacks. 

“This timely guide from nib Travel offers practical tips for travellers to use to stay in top form and make the most of their time away this holiday season," says Dylan Wilkinson, general manager international and partnerships. 

"Jet lag can be a real challenge, especially during the busy festive season when people are eager to make the most of their time with loved ones or explore new destinations. 

"By preparing ahead, making informed in-flight choices, and embracing local time upon arrival, travellers can focus on creating unforgettable memories.”

1. Plan ahead

Where possible, a few days before you leave, gradually adjust your sleep schedule to match the time zone of your destination. This will help your body adjust more quickly when you arrive. Adjusting your watch to your destination’s time zone as soon as you board your flight can also help you mentally adjust, tricking your body clock into beating jet lag.

2. Choose your airplane seat wisely

It pays to be picky when you’re booking your seat on a long-haul flight. In economy it’s worth paying extra for a bulkhead or exit-row seat for extra legroom or, at the very least, to book a window seat on the same side of the plane that you would sleep in your bed, so you can rest against the plane wall.

3. To sleep or not to sleep on the plane?

While it is a good idea to sleep on your flight, you need to factor in the arrival time at your destination. If it’s night-time when you arrive, plan so you’re ready for a good night of rest. If it’s daytime on arrival, getting an adequate amount of sleep on your flight will have you ready to go. Turn off electronic devices and seat-back screens an hour before sleeping as the blue light screens emit can delay sleep. Eye masks, noise-cancelling headphones and a comfortable travel pillow will also help.

4. Be good to your gut

Avoid eating too much before you fly and snack on healthy foods like nuts, seeds and dark chocolate during your flight to avoid digestive issues. A 12-to-16-hour fast the day prior to and during travel may trigger a quick reset of circadian rhythms.

5. Stay hydrated

Dehydration can make the symptoms of jet lag worse, so drink plenty of water during your flight and avoid caffeine, sugary drinks and alcohol (hmm!) while in the air. You can rehydrate on arrival by sticking to electrolyte-rich drinks like coconut water.

6. Consider a supplement

Some people will turn to prescription medications to help them sleep on a flight. But while leaving you rested, these medications don’t stop jet lag as they don’t help reset your body clock. Talk to your doctor about whether these options might be right for you.

7. Get with the program

Once you arrive at your destination, adjust to local time straight away by eating meals and going to bed at appropriate times. If you're feeling tired, a nap can help but try to limit it to 20-30 minutes to avoid disrupting night-time sleep. Natural light is the biggest influencer of your body clock, so jump start the process of adjusting it to your new time zone by getting outside and soaking up the sights of your destination. 

See https://www.nibtravelinsurance.com.au.

Image: Celin May, Scop.io   

Take your i-Pad and shove it up your QR code

Most restaurant guests still want a traditional, tech-free experience when dining out, a survey conducted by US culinary school Escoffier has revealed.

Almost two-thirds (64%) of US diners prefer dealing with a human being to robot waiters or ordering via a tablet.

Depending on the technology, however, and the demographics in question, some consumers may be open to new technology.

Some tech options have already become the preferred choice for a clear majority of customers, data from the National Restaurant Association (NRA) reveals.

65% of full-service (ahem!) restaurant customers would likely use a tablet at the table to pay their check; slightly fewer - 60% - said they would use it to place their order.

Diners were cooler on QR codes; while 59% said they would use a QR code to pull up a menu, fewer than half would use a QR code to pay their check (46%) or place an order (48%).

Escoffier’s analysis showed that, as with many tech-centred questions, there is a generational divide.

Whereas 64% of adults overall want to keep technology out of restaurants, for Millennials that figure falls to 47%.

Likewise, Millennials are also the most enthusiastic about the idea of food being prepared (45% in favour) and delivered (58% in favour) by automated systems/robots, whereas the adult population as a whole is less so (29% and 37% respectively).

If I go out to eat I want a “hospitality” experience. A tablet can’t answer questions. 

I won’t do QR codes. If you can’t bring me a menu I will choose to dine elsewhere.

But if you can’t afford to turn away customers in a super-competitive environment then good luck to you. 

Image: Aditya Mohan, Scop.io

Bangkok remains Asian travel favourite

The Thailand capital of Bangkok (above), a perennial favourite with travellers in Asia, topped the list of international flight destinations in 2024 for users of flights booked through the Agoda travel platform.

Bangkok led Singapore, Seoul. Kuala Lumpur, and Tokyo as the top five destinations.

Tokyo is a new entry, replacing Ho Chi Minh City compared to last year's list, indicative of the popularity of Japan with visitors.

Agoda reported that in 2024, the most international passengers booking flights through its platform originated from Singapore, followed by Thailand, South Korea, Japan, and Indonesia.

"Each of the top flight destinations has a special charm that draws people in," said Andrew Smith, senior vice president for supply at Agoda.

All the most popular destinations combine modern attractions and cultural heritage.

Bangkok's lively streets, Singapore's iconic skyline, and Seoul's fusion of tradition and innovation offer diverse experiences. Kuala Lumpur's cultural landmarks and Tokyo's eclectic charm enhance their appeal.

See agoda.com/flights

Bookings open for Virgin Australia/Qatar Airways partnership flights

Flyers can now book flights that are part of the new partnership between Virgin Australia and Qatar Airways that provides opportunities to travel to over 100 destinations across Europe, the Middle East and Africa.

As of this week, you can book Virgin Australia's new services to jet directly from Sydney, Brisbane, and Perth to Doha for travel from June 2025, with Melbourne to join the party later in the new year. 

The flights will be operated by Virgin Australia using Qatar Airways' spacious Boeing 777s, including the Qsuite business class. 

The deal replaces Virgin's former alliance with Etihad. 

Key benefits and launch sale offers include fares on sale from Sydney, Brisbane and Perth via Doha to multiple European destinations with fares starting from Perth to Paris in economy return from $1,791. 

Sydney to London economy starts from $1,982 return. 

Frequent flyers can rack up to 20,000 bonus points on business return flights and 10,000 bonus points on economy return flights when booked on an eligible Virgin Australia international long haul flight by January 20, 2025 for travel between June 21 to September 30. 

The Virgin Australia and Qatar Airways partnership, pending final regulatory approval, is being promoted as "delivering increased competition, improved connectivity, and enhanced customer choice".

Virgin Australia Group CEO Jayne Hrdlicka said the new airline partnership is a game-changer. 

“This is a huge win for Australian travellers which brings more value and choice for passengers wanting to fly internationally," she said. 

"Through this partnership Virgin Australia becomes stronger, improving our ability to compete domestically - which is great news for Virgin Australia, our people and consumers.” 

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer said that, if approved, the investment will support a collective ambition between the two airlines to deliver the best service and value to Australian customers.

“We are proud to support Virgin Australia with their ambition to return to long-haul international flying, a crucial next step in their successful transformation program,” he said.

Budget airline adds new destinations from UK airports

Heading for the UK next northern summer? Fancy a cheap side trip to somewhere slightly more exotic?

Budget airline easyJet has announced it will launch six new routes from four UK airports this summer, news portal Travel Mole reports.

The airline is growing its UK fleet with an additional A320 aircraft at its Bristol base.

New services set to take off this summer include flights to Milan's second airport, Linate, from Manchester and Edinburgh, and two new routes from Birmingham to Gibraltar and Bordeaux.

The additional aircraft in Bristol will support the launch of new routes to Palermo in Italy and Almeria in Spain.

The new routes to Milan Linate have been enabled by the opening of a five-aircraft base at Linate next spring, following approval by the European Commission.

The airline will also open a three-aircraft base at Rome Fiumicino from March 30 next year, joining existing bases in Milan's main Malpensa airport, and Naples.

Flights to Linate from Manchester and Edinburgh will take off for the first time on March 30, with flights up to seven days a week throughout the year.

These complements existing easyJet services to Malpensa.

The airline will also increase frequencies from London Gatwick to Milan Linate from one to up to two daily departures.

From Birmingham, flights to Bordeaux will take off from May 1 and to Gibraltar from June 1.

New flights from Bristol to Almeria will launch on June 24 and operate twice a week. 

A new summer route to Sicily’s capital of Palermo will launch on June 26 with twice-weekly departures.

“Following another consecutive record summer, easyJet is continuing to grow in the UK next year with more aircraft, enabling us to offer an even greater choice of flights and package holidays,” said Ali Gayward, easyJet UK country manager.

EasyJet currently serves 21 UK airports, offering 585 routes to 136 destinations from the UK to Europe and beyond.

Your last-minute festive gift guide for gourmets and drinkers

Got friends who love their food and drink? Here are some last-minute festive gift ideas put together by the GOTR team.

Wine lovers will enjoy experimenting with new high-tech glasses from Melbourne-based Denver & Liely that retail for $200 each.

The hand-blown crystal glasses went through eight years of R&D before being released last month and are designed to aerate the wine in a similar fashion to decanting.

The glasses are beautiful-looking and certainly help soften out the tannins in big, young reds.

Designer Denver Cramer found inspiration for the shape in commercial jet engines, with a multi-directional turbine ‘hub’, designed to rapidly aerate the wine.

The universal design suits pinot noir and chardonnay best, but also works with red blends.

Hand-blown and hand polished, the glasses are fun and impressive. See https://denverandliely.com/

--

As soon as the GoTR team saw the AdHoc PEPE Chili Cutter they wanted one.

Specially designed to cut dried chilis, the stainless steel and acrylic design makes for a beautiful addition to kitchens with its eye-catching design.

AdHoc was named as best kitchen brand of the year for 2024-2025 in the PLUS X awards and this looks the goods; combining design and functionality.

German-designed AdHoc products are well thought out with their straightforward elegance. 

This costs $39.95 and is perfect for when you want to add just the right amount of chilli to your past or pizza.  See https://sheldonandhammond.com.au

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Vodka is the perfect summer tipple. It can be enjoyed with just about any mixer and loves to get up close and personal with ice cubes.

STOLI Premium Vodka is a smooth and iconic spirit that's perfect for festive cocktails. Distilled three times from top-quality grain and filtered through birch charcoal and quartz sands, it's blended with pure artesian well water for a clean, crisp taste.

Whether it's mixed into a classic martini or enjoyed over ice, STOLI is a long-time favourite and very stylish.

STOLI Premium Vodka is available via Dan Murphy’s, alongside other flavours such as Cucumber, Vanilla and Salted Karamel. $58.99.

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Travellers and beer lovers will enjoy the new edition of the coffee table book Australia’s Historic Pubs.

It tells the stories behind 52 of the most loved heritage pubs across Australia. Illustrated with lovely colour images, it reveals their varied histories and also uncovers many colourful characters through the centuries.

Readers can discover how immigrants carved out their destinies amidst the greed and ambition of the gold rushes, while convicts carved the building blocks.

From the bustling streets of Hobart to the serene banks of the Swan and Brisbane Rivers, this book takes you on a journey to visit some of the most venerable watering holes in Australia.

Australia's Historic Pubs  costs $49.99 and is available at good book shops, or through
http://woodslanepress.com.au.

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Henschke is one of Australia’s most revered family wine producers and has released a range of special gift packs.

Check out the Plumm Glassware Gift Packs: special edition offerings that contain two Henschke-branded Plumm crystal wine glasses and a bottle of wine. 

Each glass is machine blown from 100% lead-free European crystal, using the pulled stem method for increased durability. Each pack contains the two glasses and a Henschke wine of your choice. 

The glasses cost $55 a pair and the cost of your chosen wine will be added at checkout. See https://www.henschke.com.au/products/plumm-glassware-gift-pack-choose-your-own-wine.

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Angel's Envy  a super-premium Kentucky Straight Bourbon, has just landed in Australia, and at under $100, it is an ideal treat for whiskey enthusiast dads.  

Angel's Envy was founded in Louisville, Kentucky, in 2011 by industry icon and Master Distiller Lincoln Henderson and his son Wes Henderson.

Unlike other bourbons, Angel’s Envy undergoes an additional maturation process, with its Kentucky Straight bourbon finished in port wine barrels to adds an additional layer of complexity and flavour. 

Angel's Envy costs $99.99 and is available at independent retailers nationwide.

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Got a thirsty friend who enjoys trying different beers? The Casella family, the people behind [yellow tail] wines, also have their own brewery in the small town of Yenda In the Riverina.

Their range includes very quaffable Yenda Pale Ale ($17 for a six pack) and the light, clear Yenda Session Lager available in 330ml six-pack bottles (RRP $7.50).

Out of the same brewery is the laid-back, easy drinking Poets Lager ($16 for a six-pack). Available at Cellarbrations, Bottle-O, IGA Liquor and Porters.

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Mason Cash has been producing mixing bowls for centuries but recently released the new Home to Roost range, featuring beautifully delicate embossments and a cheery colours.

The Home to Roost range includes mixing bowls in three sizes, the batter bowl, prep bowls, storage jars and a utensil pot.

Made from earthenware, the bowls are light enough to hold in one arm while mixing, but sturdy enough when using on the countertop.

This is the Mother Hen nest bowl ($110) from https://masoncash.com.au/products/collections/home-to-roost/.

Top Image: Aleksei Popoc, Scop.io   

New beer is a little ray of sunshine

 

Hotels under the Holiday Inn Express banner have signed a deal to serve an exclusive new Express Pale Ale beer, made collaboratively with Local Brewing Co.

The new brew was launched at Holiday Inn Express & Suites Sunshine Coast's new rooftop bar.

Eight Holiday Inn Express hotels across Australia: Sunshine Coast, Brisbane Central, Melbourne Southbank, Melbourne Little Collins, Sydney Airport, Sydney Macquarie Park, Newcastle and Adelaide City will be the only places pouring the beer.

Proceeds from every beer sold will go towards meals for those facing food insecurity, through Local Brewing Co.’s charity partner, SecondBite.

Open to guests and locals Thursdays and Fridays 3pm-8pm and Saturdays 1pm-8pm, the new rooftop bar and pool is the highest on the Sunshine Coast, overlooking Maroochydore city.

The bar is the latest addition to the new-build Holiday Inn Express & Suites Sunshine Coast, opened in mid-2022, complementing its 181 guest rooms and suites.

“Sustainability and giving back to local communities are core focuses for our Holiday Inn Express hotels,” said cluster GM Daniel Lawder.

“Our refreshing, very drinkable new and exclusive Express Pale Ale not only tastes great, it also supports Australians doing it tough at the moment."

For a limited time, the hotels will also serve up Local Brewing Co.’s seasonal Citrus Hazy Pale, a sustainable beer brewed using day-old bread and surplus fruit sourced from supermarkets, which would otherwise have gone to landfill.

For more information on Holiday Inn Express hotels, visit https://www.proinvesthotels.com/brands/hiex.

Meet a new artisan gin with a uniquely Australian flavour

An animal sanctuary and a boutique distillery may seem unlikely bedfellows but Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary and  Brisbane’s newest craft distillery and lifestyle brand BY.ARTISANS, this week announced the launch of the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary Eucalyptus Gin.

The innovative spirit comes from the world’s oldest and largest koala sanctuary and is made using eucalyptus leaves, turning waste into a luxe spirit.

Each day, eucalyptus leaves are hand-harvested from Lone Pine, with the freshest leaves reserved to nourish the koalas, while the remaining foliage, previously destined for composting, is given a second life.

BY.ARTISANS harnesses these leaves to craft a drink that "captures the essence of Australia’s natural heritage while supporting koala conservation".

From today, the Eucalyptus Gin will be available exclusively at BY.ARTISANS’ flagship store in Brisbane's West End, Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary’s gift shop and online.

A press release says that 5% of all proceeds will be donated to registered wildlife charities and research groups focused on koala studies and wildlife conservation.

“The koala is an iconic species, but their habitat is under constant threat due to urbanisation and deforestation," said Lone Pine general manager Lyndon Discombe.

"Eucalyptus is vital for koalas, being their sole source of food. This collaboration with BY.ARTISANS helps raise awareness of the challenges koalas face and supports conservation efforts."

Ginn Lai, co-founder of BY.ARTISANS, who conceptualised the project, said: “We wanted to give these eucalyptus leaves a second life, and through this collaboration, we’re telling the story of koalas, the importance of eucalyptus as their lifeblood, and how something as simple as a leaf can be transformed into something extraordinary.

"It’s a celebration of this remarkable native botanical while giving back to the community to help safeguard the future of koalas.”

See www.lonepinekoalasanctuary.com and www.byartisans.com.au.

Australia making more white wine than red

Total sales of Australian wine exceeded production for the second year in a row, but there is still a lot of red wine in tanks waiting for a home.

The good news followed successive small vintages, says the Australian Wine Production, Sales and Inventory Report 2024 released today by Wine Australia.

Wine production was just over 1 billion litres, an 8% increase compared with 2022–23 but still the second-smallest reported production in 17 years, and 16% below the 10-year average of 1.24 billion litres.

Peter Bailey, manager for market insights at Wine Australia, said that the below-average production from the small 2024 vintage was the result of a combination of seasonal factors and economic and market conditions.

“This was another difficult season in many regions, with heavy rainfall and flooding, widespread windy conditions affecting flowering, and dry spring weather leading to cold nights and the potential for frost damage,” Bailey said.

“However, the result has also stemmed from deliberate decisions by grape growers and wine businesses to reduce production or intake, driven by the current economic and market conditions affecting demand for wine.”

The overall increase of 8% cent compared with 2022–23 was made up of a 20% increase in white wine production, partly offset by a 2% decrease in red wine production.

This saw white wine’s share of production increase from 46% to 51% - the first time in 12 years that the production of white wine has exceeded that of red wine in Australia.

Bailey said that this change reflected adjustments made by the sector to counter the oversupply of red wine that had arisen over the past three years.

The total volume of sales of Australian wine in export and domestic markets was 1.08 billion litres - a decrease of 1% compared with 2022–23, with both domestic and export sales showing very small declines.

Bailey said growth in red wine exports was driven by the re-commencement of exports to mainland China following the removal of import tariffs in late March 2024.

“It will take some time before there is a clearer picture of how Chinese consumers are responding to the increased availability of Australian wine in–market,” Bailey said.

“Any increase in production is likely to result in stock levels rising again, unless there is a corresponding increase in sales. This is a particular concern for reds, where the stock-to-sales ratio is still well above the long-term average.”

Bailey noted that the global outlook for Australian wine remains challenging. 

World wine consumption has continued to decline over the past 12 months and is expected to decline further in the next five years, driven by economic constraints, overall alcohol moderation trends and competition for wine from other beverages.

Image: Elena Pasenko, Scop.io 

Minor Hotels snaps up rights to major Brisbane development

 

Bangkok-based Minor Hotels, one of the world’s fastest-growing global hospitality groups, has expanded its Australasian portfolio by announcing the signing of the management letting rights for the landmark Queen's Wharf Residences development in Brisbane.

The residences open early next year and are being marketed as "a new benchmark for urban tourism in Brisbane".

Queen's Wharf Residences, the tallest tower within the Queen's Wharf precinct, is a 64-storey development that redefines the skyline of Queenland’s capital - a future Olympic Games host city.

The property features one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments with balconies and winter gardens equipped with lift-and-tilt windows, allowing guests to enjoy Brisbane’s subtropical climate year-round.

The design of the tower reflects the soft curves of the Brisbane River.

Guests will have exclusive access to amenities including a pool, spa, steam room, theatre, leisure lounge room and gym, as well as direct access to the precinct’s entertainment options, hotels and dining options including Sokyo, Fat Noodle and Cherry and spectacular views from the Sky Deck.

“Highly sought-after, Queen’s Wharf Residences has become Queensland’s fastest-selling development, offering more than just a place to stay, but an unprecedented benchmark in urban tourism for Brisbane.” said Lauren Sheldon, head of sales and marketing in Australia for property developer Far East Consortium.

“The scale of this project demanded a management partner with unmatched expertise to offer the premium management guests of Queen’s Wharf Residences will expect, and Minor Hotels’ extensive experience in property management across Australasia and beyond instils us with confidence that they are the ideal partner to deliver on this promise."

Craig Hooley, COO for Minor Hotels Australasia, said: “We are excited to add such a landmark Brisbane development to our portfolio, offering a product unlike anything the city has seen before with respect to size and scale, and proximity to Brisbane CBD’s most exciting dining and entertainment precinct.

“Given our extensive experience managing over 550 properties globally, including 11 existing properties in Brisbane CBD, we are well-equipped to manage this pioneering development which further establishes Brisbane’s position on the world stage as a global destination for entertainment, leisure and tourism.”

Minor Hotels is a global hospitality group operating in 56 countries, operating brands including Anantara, Avani, Elewana Collection, NH, NH Collection, nhow Hotels, Tivoli Hotels & Resorts and Oak Hotels and Resorts.

Minor Hotels, founded by US businessman William Heinecke in 1978, is a member of the Global Hotel Alliance (GHA), the world’s biggest group for independent hotel brands, and participates in the GHA DISCOVERY loyalty programme.

Wine innovation born of adversity

Sparkling wines called Blanc de Noir are almost always made from traditional Champagne varieties: pinot noir, or occasionally pinot meunier.

But a new release from Best's Great Western is a bubbly Blanc de Noir made, quite unusually, from shiraz grapes.

Fifth-generation winemaker Ben Thomson has chosen innovation to conquer adversity, using his excess shiraz to create the Blanc de Noir Cuvée, as well as a still Syrah Blanc.

The 2024 Blanc de Noir is made from 100% shiraz grapes in response to the challenges of recent vintages.

Thomson saw an opportunity to create something new out of the exceptional fruit from his Sugarloaf Creek vineyard - and the wine has been released ahead of the festive season.

“Making the most of adversity is something winemakers need to do to survive,” says Thomson.

“We’re raising a glass to the triumph of the Blanc de Noir project.  It takes a little while to get your head around the fact that these bubbly beads of delight are made from shiraz grapes.

"Once you get over that, you will discover brilliant clarity with apple, pear, lemon and lime characters dancing away on the palate.”

The fruit is early picked to ensure bright acid. I found the wine quite yeasty on the nose but delicate on the palate - definitely a style suited to enjoying with food.

See https://www.bestswines.com/product/2024-blanc-de-noir. The wines available at fine wine outlets for $30.

Travel trends for 2025 revealed

Relaxation, travelling with the family and exploring new destinations are three key pillars of travel intent for 2025, travel booking website Agoda says 

Agoda has unveiled its 2025 Travel Trends survey, highlighting the factors set to shape the travel landscape in Asia in the coming year. 

The survey revealed a strong focus on relaxation, family-oriented trips, and the excitement of discovering new destinations as primary motivations for travellers.

Agoda's findings indicate that travellers are prioritizing quality time with loved ones and seeking respite from daily routines.

The survey also underscored the growing interest in exploring uncharted territories. Noteworthy is the popularity of theme parks, with one in eight respondents expecting to go on a trip to visit one.

Seven key insights from Agoda's 2025 Travel Trends survey:

1. The more the merrier: Travelling with family tops the list
For many travellers family time equals quality time. More than a third of travellers questioned (34%) plan to travel with family in 2025. 

2. Easy does it: Relaxation is the top travel motivation, by far
Escaping from the hustle and bustle of daily life is by far the most important reason to travel, according to the survey. 75% of respondents cited relaxation as their most important travel motivation.

3. Computer says 'yes': Tech assisting in travel planning
Technology is playing a pivotal role in shaping travel plans. A substantial majority of travellers (80%) plan to use travel apps, while about one in eight (12%) are interested in virtual reality tours. 

4. Travel For Less: Journey more, spend smart
Budget considerations remain a key factor, with a significant portion of travellers (65%) planning to spend less than $250 per night on accommodation. But price is not a barrier to international travel - 87% of travellers expect to take the same number of trips or more compared to 2024. 

5. In and Out of Office: Travelling on and off the clock
In addition to traditional business trips, which 28% of respondents expect to embark on, the survey also picked up on the emergence of digital nomads, borderless workers who work remotely. 1 in 25 expects to work remotely in 2025, with a focus on combining work and leisure, as more companies adopt flexible work arrangements. 

6. Inspiration: Many ways to discover new destinations
A whopping 84% of travellers expect to visit new destinations in 2025. 

7. Life is a rollercoaster: Theme Parks are a reason to travel
Asia's many theme parks: Disney in Tokyo, Shanghai, and Hong Kong, Lotte World in Seoul, Universal in Osaka and Singapore, Ferrari World in Abu Dhabi will attract 20% of those surveyed.

Image: Hesham Osama, Scop.io

Mexico hits cruise ships with new taxes

Add Mexico to the list of countries that is fighting back against the intrusive and costly wave of cruise ship visits.

The Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) has been spooked after the Mexican government passed a new tax on cruise passengers.

Cruise passengers will face an additional US $42 per person in taxes on top of the current average of US $20 in other taxes and fees the FCCA says is required to visit Mexican ports, news portal Travel Mole reports.

The association says this effectively prices Mexican ports out of the cruise market - which may well be the idea given the increasing cost of catering for cruise ships and the damage they cause the environment.

The law was passed without consultation or any input from the cruise industry, the FCCA says, adding the new tax could disrupt the travel plans of over 10 million passengers expected to visit Mexico in 2025.

“We appreciate President [Claudia] Sheinbaum’s assurance that the change will happen slowly and that she’s instructed federal officials to work with our industry, but we haven’t heard from anyone yet,” FCCA CEO Michele Paige said.

The FCCA says member lines are "eager to collaborate with the government to gain clarity on the details of this implementation and work together to chart a constructive path forward".

“Mexico has long been a cornerstone of the cruise market, that has delivered significant economic benefits to both the industry and local communities,” said Paige.

“However, the unilateral decision to eliminate the in-transit tax exemption without engaging industry stakeholders undermines our partnership.”

The association says cruise ship calls generate over $1 billion in direct spending annually and support more than 20,000 jobs across various sectors.

The FCCA wants Mexican officials to engage in immediate dialogue to address industry concerns.

“Joint efforts between the government and the cruise industry are essential to creating sustainable growth that benefits all parties,” Paige added.

“We are hopeful we can work together to find solutions that preserve Mexico’s vital role in the cruise market.”

Image: Lauren Hudon, Scop.io 

Mumm delivers a new world of flavours

You need to make sure you are buying the right Mumm when you step into your local bottle shop.

G. H. Mumm & Cie is a Champagne House that was founded in 1827 in Reims.

Famous for its Cordon Rouge label, Mumm is one of the largest Champagne houses and is owned by Pernod Ricard.

 
The Mumm brand has expanded over the years, however, with iterations from California, Tasmania in Australia and New Zealand - with wines from both Marlborough and Central Otago.

Australian wine drinkers can now sample sparkling wines from all four countries with the arrival of Mumm Napa Prestige Cuvée under Mumm Terroirs collection label.

Mumm Napa Prestige Cuvée is crafted from a blend of 49% pinot noir, 46% chardonnay, and small amounts of pinot gris and pinot meunier by head winemaker Tami Lotz.

All the fruit comes from the Napa Valley, about 80km north of San Francisco: a region renowned for its diverse soils and microclimates.

Kristy Rutherford, marketing director for Pernod Ricard Australia, said: “We’ve seen the remarkable growth of super premium sparklings from the new world in the last few years.

"Mumm Marlborough Brut Prestige reached shelves in 2020, followed by the popular launch of Mumm Tasmania in 2022, and more recently the expansion into Central Otago with the Mumm Central Otago Blanc de Noirs and Mumm Central Otago Pinot Noir."

I thought the Napa Valley sparkling was well made with definite brioche-like intensity on the palate. It is very food friendly.

“The US has been in love with Mumm Napa sparklings for 40 years now, and we are thrilled to welcome Mumm Napa Prestige Cuvée to the Terroirs collection in time for the Australian summer season,” Rutherford said.

It would be a great choice for a wine options game but at $45 I think a lot of Australians will prefer the more elegant Tasmanian option.

Mumm Napa Prestige Cuvée is available now at Vintage Cellars, Liquorland, First Choice and independent liquor stores nationally.

Air Canada wants to slug passengers extra for hand baggage

 

Air Canada. The airline that takes a week to get a suitcase they lost back to you. And doesn't give a damn about it. 

Air Canada. The airline that sends your missing bag to Windsor, Ontario. Because your name is Winsor. 

Yes, that Air Canada. 

Now they want to charge you for hand baggage. Following, you guessed it, in the footsteps of no-service US carriers. 

Air Canada, which already had a "no frills" approach to customer service, is now planning to gouge travellers who want to travel with an overnight bag, or even a larger laptop. 

From January 2025, passengers travelling on Air Canada’s economy basic fare (yep, they mean basic) within Canada, the US, Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean will be restricted to a single small personal item such as a purse or belt bag, satchel or laptop bag (if the laptop is small). 

The Air Canada website stated this week that larger items such as backpacks, duffel bags and cabin bags - which until now had been included in each economy basic fare – will be charged at $35 in local dollars for the first item and $50 for each additional bag. 

Passengers will have their ticket and carry-on baggage allowance verified at the departure gate - which sounds highly likely to cause delays and prompt arguments - and anybody trying to sneak an extra bag on board will be hit up for $65 at the gate.

Air Canada does say that mobility aids, medical devices and child strollers remain exempt. For now. 

Air Canada boasts it has "an ongoing commitment to excellence". I think they are kidding themselves.

World travel returns to normal post-Covid

Around 1.1 billion tourists travelled internationally in the first nine months of 2024, as the global tourism sector recovered to 98% of pre-pandemic levels.

The latest World Tourism Barometer released by UN Tourism this week, says a full recovery from the biggest crisis in the travel sector’s history is expected by the end of the year, despite economic, geopolitical and climate challenges.

Four years after the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic, which brought global tourism to a standstill, the Barometer reflects the sector’s remarkable recovery, with most regions already exceeding 2019 arrival numbers in the period January to September 2024.

The report also shows outstanding results in terms of international tourism receipts, with most destinations with available data posting double-digit growth compared to 2019.

UN Tourism secretary-general Zurab Pololikashvili said: “The strong growth seen in tourism receipts is excellent news for economies around the world.

"The fact that visitor spending is growing even stronger than arrivals has a direct impact on millions of jobs and small businesses and contributes decisively to the balance of payments and tax revenues of many economies.”

The Middle East (+29% compared to 2019) continued to enjoy record growth this nine-month period, while Europe (+1%) and Africa (+6%) also exceeded 2019 levels. The Americas recovered to 97% of its pre-pandemic arrivals, while Asia and the Pacific reached 85% of 2019 levels.

The summer season in the northern hemisphere was generally strong, with arrivals worldwide reaching 99% of pre-pandemic values in Q3 2024.

Among the world’s top earners, Japan (+59%), Türkiye (+41%) and France (+27%) all recorded double-digit growth through September.

Image: Jerome Quek, Scop.io