Serious warning issued to visitors to Bali

Tourists planning on visiting Bali over the next four weeks have been warned to book their accommodation and activities as far in advance as possible.

With the Balinese Hindu festival of Nypei falling on the same weekend as the Islamic holiday of Eid al-Fitr at the end of the month, accommodation right across the island is close to booked up, the Bali Sun reports. There will be no last-minute deals.

Most tourists and holidaymakers heading to Bali book their accommodation pre-arrival but those who wing it are being warned they might not find the hotel room they want in the location they prefer.

To guarantee rooms in Bali’s most popular resort areas, it is highly advisable to book hotels, villas, B&Bs, guesthouses, and hostels now.

The dual holidays will see domestic travellers heading to Bali, Indonesia's flagship tourism destination, which is is just as popular with domestic visitors as it is with international travellers.

Facilities are expected to be stretched from March 28 and April 6.

The deputy chairman of the Indonesian Hotel and Restaurant Association (PHRI) Bali, I Gusti Agung Ngurah Rai Suryawijaya, said it is expected that over 20,000 domestic tourists will land in Bali each day during the Eid al-Fitr holiday, known in Indonesia as Lebaran.

“Our prediction for tourist arrivals could increase by 10%," he said.

The majority of domestic tourists travel from Jakarta, Semarang, and Jogjakarta, to popular Bali resorts like Kuta, Legian, Jimabaran and Canggu.

Suryawijaya suggested that hotel occupancy rates will increase by at least 10% on average over the festival period. With this in mind, it would be wise for tourists to make bookings as soon as possible to secure both the hotel itself and their preferred room.

Head of the Bali Tourism Office, Tjok Bagus Pemayun, said hotel occupancy could increase by as much as 20% with some hotels, resorts, and villa complexes becoming fully booked.

During the Eid al-Fitr holiday in 2024, a total of over a million passengers passed through Bali’s I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport.

Image: The Damai resort  

Australia's popular wine and cheese party is back

One of Australia's most successful gourmet events, Mould x Pinot Palooza, is returning in 2025. 

The showcase of outstanding cheeses and stellar pinot noirs from across Australia and New Zealand, will return its food and wine tour to Brisbane, Melbourne and Perth in 2025. 

Bad news, however, for Sydney, Adelaide and Hobart, who miss out this time around. 

These will be the first Mould x Pinot Palooza events since the departure of event founder and guru Dan Sims, so the pressure will be on the Revel Global team to match the excellence of previous years. 

The dates will be May 23-25 at the John Reid Pavilion at the Showgrounds in Brisbane, July 4-5 in Melbourne at the Royal Exhibition Building in Carlton and August 9-10 at the Silver Jubilee Pavilion at the Claremont Showgrounds  in Perth.

Pre-sales open today for previous party goers with public tickets available from tomorrow. 

Organisers boast: "From the creamiest brie to the stinkiest blue, the prettiest Yarra Pinot and robust Central Otago - we’ve got you covered."

Tickets are $59 plus booking fee.

See https://pinotpalooza.com.au/

Some art with your wine tastings?

The South African wine region of Stellenbosch has become a living canvas as it hosts Southern Africa’s only triennale until April 30.

The Stellenbosch Triennale 2025 is showcasing Ba'zinile - A Rehearsal for Breathing, an artistic journey that weaves through local streets and venues.

This public art exhibition brings together local and international artists whose works invite contemplation about resilience, imagination, and shared humanity.

Visitors can stroll between installations and venues including: 

# From The Vault – Explore curated treasures at the Rupert Museum and Stellenbosch University Museum.
# On the Cusp – Experience contemporary works at Oude Libertas.
# In the Current – Engage with art that speaks to our present moment at Oude Libertas.
# BIOSCOPE Film Festival – Visual storytelling that transcends borders.
# IMIZWA Embodied Interventions – Watch art come alive through performance.
# ABALOZI Sonic Mappings – Experience the intersection of sound and space.

You can also enjoy jazz nights, a harvest festival and choir performances.

Spier Wine Farm, meanwhile, will be transformed into a nocturnal gallery from March 21 to April 21.

Spier Light Art invites guests to wander through 16 illuminated installations that weave art, light and landscape.

This free family event begins at dusk and can be combined with with sunset picnics and bubbles under the stars.

Read more about this illuminating experience

New festival to showcase Ningaloo's natural beauty

Ningaloo Sky Festival, a celebration of the natural wonders of the Ningaloo region, has been unveiled for Exmouth in Western Australia from June 27-29.

The new festival will feature events, market stall holders, food trucks and local musicians/entertainers.

The region is known for its clear skies and pristine reefs.

"We are incredibly excited to launch the website and officially open registrations for the 2025 Ningaloo Sky Festival," said Exmouth Shire president Matt Niikkula.

"This festival is a celebration of our unique region, and we invite everyone to join us for a weekend of wonder under the Ningaloo Sky.

"With a diverse range of activities, local talent, and a spectacular concert and drone show planned, we encourage everyone to register their interest now and stay tuned for more exciting announcements."

My thoughts are that organisers are cutting things a little fine by asking for applications of interest as late as March - but it sounds an event with great potential.

For the geographically challenged, the shire of Exmouth is in the Gascoyne region of Western Australia, over 1,000 kilometres north of the state capital, Perth.

Ningaloo Reef is Australia's largest fringing coral reef and the only large reef positioned very close to a landmass. It is known for its whale sharks. 

For more info see www.ningaloosky.com.au

Musk’s SpaceX Rocket Explodes and Causes Airport Chaos

Does Elon Musk think he is a law unto himself?

It seems that way. And maybe he is. 

The Federal Aviation Authority grounded commercial aircraft flights across Florida as a second successive SpaceX rocket post-launch explosion sent flaming debris to the ground.

The rocket had what was laughably described as "a rapid unscheduled disassembly" as a stop was placed on flights to and from several Florida airports.

The rocket blasted off from Starbase, outside Brownsville in Texas, but it broke up within minutes, travel news portal Travel Mole reported.

The US FAA issued a "ground stop" at Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Palm Beach International and Orlando airports due to the potential hazard of falling "space launch debris".

I wonder if an ordinary Joe would be allowed to cause such chaos with repeated failures.

It was the second straight explosion of a SpaceX rocket.

Earlier this year, debris rained down on the Turks and Caicos with wreckage still being collected weeks later.

Early evening departures were delayed at the airports while some incoming flights had to be diverted.

SpaceX issued a statement saying: "During Starship’s ascent burn, the vehicle experienced a rapid unscheduled disassembly and contact was lost. Our team immediately began co-ordination with safety officials to implement pre-planned contingency responses.”

Snoop Dogg brings something fresh to the drinks table

When you work for Snoop Dogg you are probably happy to accept a job title like "head of cannabis operations".

Snoop Dogg, born the more mundane Calvin Broadus, is an American rapper, record producer, and actor who has been known to enjoy a spliff or two.

He has sold 35 million albums worldwide and has just invested in a partnership with Harmony Craft Beverages to release a range of cannabis and "functional" drinks named Iconic Tonics. newsletter the drinks business reports

Functional drinks, for those not up with the jargon, are drinks with added ingredients that offer specific health benefits, beyond taste and hydration. Like cannabis-infused beverages,

As wellness and mindful drinking trends accelerate, the musical artist’s move to release Iconic Tonics is well-timed for the sector.

“I’ve always been about innovation, and functional beverages are the next frontier," said Mr Dogg.

"People want drinks that do more than just taste good – they want benefits, and they want choices. Harmony Craft Beverages has been pioneering this movement, and together now as Iconic Tonics, we’re bringing something fresh to the table. This is more than a brand - it’s a lifestyle.”

Snoop Dogg’s growing presence in the hemp-infused products categories already includes his Death Row Records Do It Fluid and Dogg lbs Doggy Spritz brands.

In addition, his portfolio also features a line of "mind-expanding elixirs" named Lifeblood by Love Yer Brain which have been co-created with Wayne Coyne of The Flaming Lips; Klaus - a line of infused mocktails by mixologist Warren Bobrow; Malus; an elevated cider; Herbaceé; a wine-inspired botanical-forward drink, and Lift: a line of hemp-infused seltzers. He's a very thirsty fellow.

“We’re building a platform that’s bigger than any one brand," says Iconic Tonics co-founder and CEO Evan Eneman.

"Consumers are moving beyond traditional alcohol and sugar-laden beverages - they want function, flavour, and experience. With Snoop’s cultural reach and our proven ability to develop and launch groundbreaking drinks, we’re setting the stage for the next evolution in beverages.

"We’re thrilled to have Snoop Dogg as an investor and partner. Snoop’s vision for the cannabis industry aligns perfectly with our mission to create positive change with our functional beverages.”

Tiffany Chin, head of cannabis operations at Snoop Dogg’s ventures, added: “We’ve built a trusted relationship with the leadership team at Harmony Craft Beverages for years, and this partnership is a natural next step.

"With our consumer reach and distribution and their expertise in functional beverages and commitment to quality, we’re poised for exceptional growth. Iconic Tonics will bring something truly special to consumers - great-tasting drinks with real benefits.”

Why this gourmet festival is vital for small community

It's idiosyncratic, fun and thirst inducing.

One of Australia's longest-running food and wine festivals, Grampians Grape Escape, returns to Halls Gap from May 2-4 for a weekend of food, wines, and entertainment.

In the foothills of Grampians National Park, the festival features close to 100 exhibitors, including the region's winemakers, produce, craft beer, distillery creations and artisanal goods.

Guests can enjoy masterclasses, live cooking demonstrations and a music line-up starting with all local talent on opening night: Feel Good Friday.

Festival Highlights will include the chance to sample wines from over 30 local wineries from regional icons Mount Langi Ghiran to new-wave makers Black & Ginger (top image). The Barrique Auction returns with a 2023 Shiraz blended by winemaker Jacob Parton from Best's Wines.

Cooking demonstrations will be conducted by local talent Dean Sibthorp (Mount William Station), alongside Masterchef alumni Justine Schofield and Dani Venn.

Regional producers will include new business Grampians Vinegar, Grampians Olive Co, Kerrie's Kreations and Wimmera Grain Store.


Regional events like Grampians Grape Escape are crucial for communities recovering from natural disasters, including the recent bushfires in the Grampians National Park.

With small businesses facing income losses and fewer visitors to the region over the summer period, festivals provide an essential economic boost.

“Grampians Grape Escape is about more than just food and wine," says festival director Kate Kirkpatrick.

"It's a celebration of community and resilience. After the continuing challenges of the Pomonal and Grampians National Park bushfires, we're grateful to offer an event that brings people together, supports local businesses and showcases the best of the region.”

Tickets are on sale now at www.grampiansgrapeescape.com.au. Options include general admission, tasting tickets and three-day passes, along with local shuttle buses.

Security flaws at Australia’s secondary airports

Just how safe are secondary airports in Australia?

On this week’s evidence: worryingly unsafe.

I’ve always been stunned how some rural airports in Australia do not conduct body scans or explosives tests.

At major airports, security operatives will divest you of manicure scissors or mini knitting needles, while letting you carry on a magnum bottle of wine. Such clear lack of thinking there.

But this week’s incident at Avalon Airport, outside Geelong, show just how potentially dangerous things really are.

A teenager armed with a loaded shotgun somehow managed to cut their way through a security fence and make it up the stairs of a commercial Jetstar flight while carrying a loaded shotgun.

Let's unpack that, shall we?

Security failed to see someone making their way through a fence; and failed to notice an armed person making their way across the tarmac.

The teen was allegedly trying to force his way onto the plane before before being overpowered by passengers. That's passengers, not the "security aware" cabin crew.

Police were called to the airport (but were apparently not on duty) and the flight, which was carrying about 150 people to Sydney, was cancelled.

"This would have been a very terrifying incident for the passengers of that plane, and Victoria Police really commend the bravery of those passengers who were able to overpower that male,” Police Superintendent Michael Reid told the media.

Police were also quick to say it was not a terrorist incident, code nowadays for "the offender was white".

Farmer Barry Clark, who tackled the alleged offender, said the teen became became agitated while speaking to a flight attendant.

“Before we knew it, a shotgun appeared, and I was worried about it being shot,” Clark told ABC Radio Melbourne.

“All I could do was push her out of the way, get the gun out of the way, break that gun and throw it down the stairs, and then put him in a hold, throw him to the ground until the police came."

Police detained the teenager and found live ammunition rounds along with the shotgun. He will face eight charges.

Good on Barry. Shame on Avalon Airport. 

Major Australian airport closed as cyclone arrives

One of Australia's busiest airports has been closed for at least two days as the east coast of the country braces for Tropical Cyclone Alfred, described as a "once in 50 years event". 

Brisbane Airport's domestic and terminals international terminals were not accepting flights after Thursday afternoon (local time) but was to remain open for stranded passengers and essential airport workers who need shelter. 

An update from Qantas Group also stated Qantas and Jetstar flights would be suspended with international operations to stop running until at least midday on Saturday. 

The category two cyclone is expected to make landfall somewhere between the Sunshine Coast and Coolangatta late on Friday or early Saturday. 

The latest weather forecast suggests the cyclone will likely make landfall between Noosa and Coolangatta.

“If the system crosses at high tide, there is the risk of seeing storm surges up to 1.5 metres, particularly around the Redland bay area and the Gold Coast,” the Bureau of Meteorology’s Matthew Collopy told local media. 

"Heavy to locally intense rainfall is expected across Queensland’s south-east from later on Thursday until “at least Saturday”.

Up to 700 millimetres of rain is expected, with authorities telling everyone in the cyclone zone to “pray for the best but prepare for the worst”.

Schools and many businesses are closed and major sports events have been cancelled and many smaller airports shuttered. 

How our love of tapping is changing our lives

Remember when a phone was an implement you used to talk to someone in another location?

Nowadays our phones are a key element of our daily lives.

Tap. Pay. Done. 

That simple, secure, and increasingly mobile action has transformed the shopping experience and unlocked opportunities for small businesses worldwide.

Visa this week announced that Tap to Phone has experienced a 200% increase in usage over the past year, supporting millions of sellers of all sizes.

In the highest Tap to Phone countries - the US, UK, and Brazil - adoption rates have surged, showing a combined growth rate of 234%.

Tap to Phone expanded Visa’s tap capabilities with a technology that turns a smartphone into a point-of-sale (POS) device, simply by downloading an app.

With nearly 30% of Tap sellers being new small businesses, this technology is helping to democratise access to commerce tools and empower microsellers and SMBs (small and mid-sized businesses)  around the world to start accepting contactless payments by using their NFC-enabled smartphones.

“Tap to Phone is a tech equalizer for businesses. Walk into some of the world’s largest retailers or go to your local farmer’s market and they’re using this same technology to accept payments right on their phone,” said Mark Nelsen, global head of consumer products, Visa.

Ariel Davis, owner an upcycling business in New York that gives new life to vintage china, says Tap to Phone technology helped her pivot to open an in-person studio for customers. Notably absent from her compact space is a desk, computer setup or register.

“You don't typically couple vintage china and innovation, but in some ways, I feel like a tech start-up because we're always trying to figure out what's going to make this experience the best for our customers and the latest technology that will take us there,” said Davis.

Call me old fashioned but I worry about losing my phone or having it stolen. And I prefer cash anyway. 

 

Ricciardo puts pedal to the metal with a new wine release

Former Formula One racer Daniel Ricciardo is an outgoing sort of bloke, not scared of performing a "shoey" when he feels the time is right. 

 
But there is also an artistic side to Ricciardo, as evidenced by his wine collaboration with St Hugo. 

The latest release in the range is Daniel Ricciardo - 2024 Enchanté Rosé by DR3 with a very feminine label (right).

I'm not sure how much appetite there is among Australian wine devotees for a $40 mataro rosé but the story goes that the new release is "inspired by Daniel’s approach to life" and is described as "the youthful, adventurous and newest member in this prestigious portfolio".

It's a nice wine; blessed with bright, crunchy fruit but with a pebbly, dry finish; refreshing and perfect for serving chilled on a warm day. 

"The decision to create this wine with mataro grapes was made early on by Daniel and I - a distinctive choice in the local rosé market," says winemaker Trina Smith. 

"As you’ll taste, the mataro imparts a beautiful jasmine floral note to the wine, and a long, elegant finish. I’m proud to say it is a contemporary style rosé that is we feel is uniquely Australian.

"While this is a passion project for Daniel, it’s been crafted with the precision of a St Hugo wine and it’s been an honour to work together on such a uniquely delicious project."

The wine is being rolled-out nationally across Dan Murphy stores right now. 

It is getting easier to fly in and out of Ljubljana

Slovenia is riding a tourism boom and it is getting easier to fly in and out of its vibrant capital Ljubljana.

Ljubljana Airport (above) is set to expand its flight offerings in spring with the introduction of new routes from KLM and Eurowings, and increased flight frequency from Turkish Airlines and British Airways.

KLM will launch daily flights to Amsterdam starting in late March, providing up to 11 flights per week while Eurowings will begin flights to Düsseldorf in mid-April, offering three weekly departures.

One-way tickets from Ljubljana to Amsterdam by KLM, with onward connections worldwide via Schiphol Airport, start at €70.

The route with Eurowings will offer onward connections through Eurowings’ network to European vacation destinations. One-way fares start at €39.99.

Turkish Airlines will increase flights to Istanbul to 18 times per week in June, while British Airways will offer eight weekly flights to London Heathrow from June onwards.

With the addition of the new flights, the summer schedule will feature 27 connections from 24 carriers.

Ljubljana Airport saw a 13.3% increase in passenger traffic in 2024, reaching over 1.4 million passengers, with recovery approaching pre-pandemic levels. Top destinations included Istanbul, London, Frankfurt, Zurich, Paris, and Munich.

Vietjet expands network to New Zealand

Rapidly growing Vietnamese budget airline Vietjet is expanding its network to New Zealand.

The leisure carrier this week unveiled its first route linking Vietnam and New Zealand, Kiwi news outlet Scoop reported.

Taking off in September, Ho Chi Minh City to Auckland flights will operate four times per week.

NZ Prime Minister Christopher Luxon visited Vietjet’s founder, Dr. Nguyen Thi Phuong Thao, while in Vietnam recently.

“This strengthens the connectivity and the people-to-people links between our two countries," Luxon said.

"This enables lots of opportunities across the board, not just in tourism but also in trade and also in education.

”I can see how Vietjet has been built into such a successful airline in a very short period. Vietjet will be very critical for us to be able to realise and to catalyse the next growth."

Thao underlined Vietjet’s commitment to strengthening Vietnam-New Zealand relations and said: “Our bilateral trade target of US$3 billion is well within reach, built upon the solid foundation of existing cooperation agreements. 

"Vietjet, alongside businesses from both nations, is committed to expanding partnerships, driving sustainable development, and soaring to new heights together.”

Vetjet’s Aviation Academy and the International Aviation Academy of New Zealand (IAANZ) signed an agreement to collaborate on pilot training

Vietjet is also adding new international routes from Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi to major Chinese cities Beijing and Guangzhou in the coming weeks.

See at www.vietjetair.com

Anyone for a weekend in Wuhan?

Wuhan will always been known as the city where the SARS virus responsible for the global Covid-19 epidemic was first discovered, but the Chinese city is keen to promote itself as a high-tech tourism hub.

Wuhan officials are describing their city as "dynamic"  and issued a press release saying: "From the suspended monorail that soars above the city to high-speed trains connecting you to major hubs -Wuhan's tech scene is always on the go!"

Wuhan is the capital of Hubei, with a population of over eleven million people.

The urban centre apparently boasts robots helping with daily life, drones delivering groceries, and cutting-edge satellite tech reshaping space exploration. 

The press release says: "The future is NOW, and it's happening right here! Wuhan is where sci-fi meets reality - every day."

Sounds intriguing, and I'd certainly put my hand up to explore. 

Among the drawcards are Optics Valley Square, the largest underground complex in Asia and a popular hangout spot for over a million university students and the Optics Valley Photon suspended monorail with a 270°view (below), the Changjiang Daily reports. 

The Optics Valley Quantum trams adopt supercapacitor power supply technology and provide passengers with free wifi service across the network. 

There is also a self-driving ride-hailing service and you can visit Wuhan Economic & Technological Development Zone and try a self-driving taxi on its 106km of smart roads.

Optics Valley Future City, meanwhile, powers itself with solar panels and recycles rainwater.

You can check out this colourful video to see what AI envisions for tomorrow in this futuristic city.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CegEcifYM2w

Do you need a pre-flight replumping treatment?

Do you need a replumping treatment while you wait for your flight? 

A pop-up L'Oreal Replumping Lounge has opened this week at Sydney Domestic Airport. 

A media release reveals "the world's #1 anti-ageing serum is fighting dehydration on Australia’s #1 flight path with free moisture analysis for travellers".

The Replumping Lounge will be open to all travellers this week. 

Here's the thinking behind it: "Air travel reduces the skin’s ability to retain moisture, leading to visible dehydration and an increase in fine lines. At the Replumping Lounge, travellers can undertake a free skin hydration test and experience the instant plumping effect of the world’s number one anti-ageing serum".

“Travelling takes a toll on your skin, stripping it of the essential moisture that holds back fine lines and wrinkling,” says Dr. Richard Betts, Ph.D., Scientific Director of L’Oréal Paris.

“At The Replumping Lounge, we’re inviting travellers to take a moment for self-care - analysing their hydration levels for free and seeing first hand how Revitalift Filler Serum can instantly replump and lock in moisture. 

"It’s all about making high-performance skincare more accessible, wherever you are.”

I think I'm beyond help, but the Replumping Lounge is open until Friday at Terminal 3. 

Visitors can enjoy complimentary hydration tests; product sampling and discount vouchers for the serum. 

See www.lorealparis.com.au

Why are we getting fatter and fatter?

Eating more processed foods from fast food outlets and supermarkets means we are getting fatter and fatter. 

A new global study released for World Obesity Day shows some of the fastest-growing countries in the world are set for dietary disaster as the trend of supermarkets and convenience stores spreading junk food diets across the world takes hold.

The study analysed data from 97 countries on retail changes over 15 years, providing the first global insight into how changes in density of chain retailers are driving unhealthy food sales and fuelling obesity rates.

This has serious implications for low- and middle-income countries and the health of their populations.

Just published in Nature Food, a study by researchers from Deakin University in Australia and experts from UNICEF has unveiled a seismic shift in the types of food stores springing up globally over the past 15 years, with serious health implications. 

Analysing data from 97 countries on retail changes over the last 15 years, the study showed that the number of chain supermarkets, hypermarkets and convenience stores per 10,000 people increased by 23.6% globally over the period. 

With market domination by these types of retailers being the norm in high-income countries, low- and middle-income countries are copying the trend and catching up fast. 

In South Asia and south-east Asia, the number of chain retail outlets per person has increased by nearly 10% per year, with a corresponding drop off in independently owned traditional stores.

And in a sign that retail is set for an even bigger shake up, grocery sales from digital retailers (online) increased by 325% over a 10-year period across 27 countries.

The increasing amount of unhealthy food sold was associated with an increase in the prevalence of obesity, which continues to rise in every region of the world and is a global concern.

"Large chain retailers usually hold significant market power, using their dominance over food manufacturers to determine what food is available and what price it's sold at, which has led to the widespread availability of unhealthy foods," says the study's lead author Dr Tailane Scapin, from Deakin University:

."Large chain retailers and food manufacturers also use aggressive marketing strategies to promote unhealthy foods, contributing to poor dietary habits and, as consequence, negatively impacting their customers' health."

Dr Scapin said immediate action was needed to address the impact of changing retail food environments.

"Our findings underscore the importance of regulating the retail environment to make sure that it's healthy foods that are promoted, while the marketing and promotion of unhealthy food products is limited," Scapin said..

"In low and middle-income countries where supermarkets and convenience stores are spreading the fastest, governments have a time-limited opportunity to make sure that these new, modern retail stores actually promote healthy food. We know from the experience in North America, Europe and other high-income regions that once retailers are established, they are very hard to change."

The study's research team called for urgent action from governments, from retailers and from the health promotion workforce to prioritise healthier retail food environments that support sustainable and healthy dietary patterns and positive public health outcomes.

"With this research published on World Obesity Day which has a theme of 'Changing systems for healthier lives', it's important that the promising action being taken by forward-thinking retailers and governments is scaled up globally," Scapin said.

The full study report, with data by country, by geographic region and by country income group, is here.

The work was completed as part of a collaboration between UNICEF and the Centre of Research Excellence in Food Retail Environments for Health: Next Generation in Australia.

For further information visit: healthyfoodretail.com

Image: Leo Sneg, Scop.io

British Airways ranked bottom of the class

It is the news no airline wants to hear: that it has been named worst in the world. 

I haven't flown British Airways for a very long time. Not since some uniformed haridan shouted "just wait!" at me when I was foolish enough to request a snack. 

And apparently things have not improved. 

British Airways has dropped to the bottom of consumer group Which?’s annual satisfaction survey for the first time, alongside the appalling Air Canada.

Which? asked nearly 8,000 UK travellers across more than 9,000 flights to rank airlines based on punctuality, customer service, seat comfort, food and value for money. 

It then merged those findings with delays and cancellation data from the Civil Aviation Authority to compile its final list.

So British Airways, which once called itself the ‘world’s favourite airline’ is hated by its own customers. 

The airline got an overall customer rating of 62% for long-haul flights. It only mustered up two out of five stars in several categories, including seat comfort, food and drink and value for money. 

But Which? says the problem isn’t necessarily that BA has got worse (it actually improved on its 2018 score of 50%), but that other airlines have got better.

Though BA got an even lower score of 57% in Which?’s short-haul ranking, it didn’t come dead last. It scored higher than Lufthansa, Wizz Air and Ryanair (which earned just one star for seat comfort and food and drink).

Here's the long-haul list, with Australia's Qantas ranking fourth: 

Singapore Airlines, Etihad Airways, Emirates, Qantas, Virgin Atlantic, Air France, Delta Airlines, KLM
United Airlines, Qatar Airways, Lufthansa, Turkish Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Tui Airways, Aer Lingus
American Airlines, Malaysia Airlines, Air Canada/ British Airways. 

Rory Boland, editor of Which? Travel, said: “British Airways' poor performance in our survey shows how far it has fallen from the days when it was seen as setting the standards others should aspire to.

“There’s a clear disparity between airlines at the top and at the bottom of the rankings. The top performers show it is possible to give passengers good service at a time when delays, cancellations and terrible customer service have become almost the norm.

“Some airlines seem to think they can get away with treating their customers badly, knowing they are unlikely to face consequences in a sector with weak regulations.” 

British Airways said the research was "entirely at odds with comments from the hundreds of thousands of customers" who travel on their airline. Well they would, wouldn't they?

For short-haul airlines in Europe, Jet2 took first place for the fourth consecutive year.

New Zealand's best address reopens after $25 million makeover

 

Huka Lodge might just be the best address in New Zealand

The world-renowned, century-old luxury lodge on the banks of the Waikato River in Taupō has just reopened the after a NZ$25million refurbishment by owners Baillie Lodges.

Known to Kiwis as ‘the grande dame of luxury lodges’ and a holiday destination for rock stars, royalty and (once) this writer, Huka Lodg is loved by locals and guests alike.

A series of contemporary features have been added as part of the works to time with Huka Lodge’s history.

Guests arriving at the lodge will now enjoy views of the spectacular Waikato River as it flows towards Huka Falls via the floor-to-ceiling windows in the new River Room (below).

New to the main lodge are an expanded dining room and bar, which overlook the river and gardens, while upstairs private lounging areas include The Loft and Piper Room, ideal for intimate dinners, special celebrations or meetings.

Guests can step from the River Room onto the outdoor terrace via large French doors, where a double-sided open fire warms lounging areas and tables for al fresco dining and drinks.

New wellness grounds feature a series of huts taking design inspiration from the traditional Kiwi ‘bach’ or holiday house, that together house a gym along with two spa treatment rooms, a sauna, ice contrast shower and a steaming plunge pool.

Three new bespoke experiences have been introduced to coincide with Huka Lodge’s reopening: The Craggy Range Culinary Escape with food, wine and scenic helicopter flights, the Epic Rotorua culture and adventure day, and the Ultimate Huka Experience with heli flight. 

Baillie Lodges founder James Baillie has led the refurbishment, working with Auckland-based Christian Anderson Architects for the building design and partnering with esteemed New Zealand-born interior designer Virginia Fisher and landscape designer Suzanne Turley, each first appointed by Huka Lodge’s previous, long-term owner Alex van Heeren. 

Baillie said it had been a privilege to have been trusted with the guardianship of Huka Lodge’s heritage and legacy, whilst readying the 100-year-old lodge for a new century of world-class travel.

“My wife and business partner Hayley and I first stayed at Huka Lodge in the early 2000s when we were considering plans for Southern Ocean Lodge on Kangaroo Island, and which would become the Baillie Lodges flagship property,” Baillie said.

“Huka Lodge, its magnificent natural surrounds, the luxury of its design and the impeccable attention to
detail in both amenity and service became a benchmark and central point of reference for us both as we
actioned plans for Southern Ocean Lodge. 

“It’s a great personal and professional honour to have completed this important redesign project for such an iconic property."

Huka Lodge general manager Kerry Molloy said he was thrilled to see the new designs come to life.

“What strikes me the most, having had the privilege to lead Huka Lodge for some 11 years, is that the new designs offer more reason for guests to spend time enjoying these beautiful spaces; dining, drinking or  relaxing with a book and the view,” Molloy said.

For bookings, reserve@hukalodge.com call +64 7 378 5791 or book online at baillielodges.com.au.

Images: George Apostolidis.

When is it worth bidding for a flight upgrade?

You know those emails you get when you have booked an economy class seat?

If you are like me you just delete them. Who needs to pay heaps more to enjoy a bigger seat for a one- or two-hour domestic flight?

But a Virgin Australia UpgradeMe offer dropped just before a recent trip from Sydney to Hobart.

"Make an offer to sit in Business Class and you could be experiencing second-to-none space and comfort. Benefits include:
#Pre-departure access to the Virgin Australia Lounge. Available at selected domestic airports
#Priority check-in and boarding, where available
#Food and drinks from our Business Class menu"

OK, I was just a little bit tempted. We were checking out of our hotel too early for breakfast. And early morning flights are often delayed.

Sitting in a comfortable lounge with barista coffee, food and fast free wifi sounded appealing.

Obviously, the higher your bid the better your chances of winning an upgrade. The lowest bid available was $65 per person. The highest, I think, $300+.

There was a kicker: Remember, if your bid isn’t successful, you don’t pay anything.

Why not risk a $65 bid? Particularly given the cost of food and drinks at Australian airports.

A coffee and breakfast can easily cost you $30, a newspaper (free in the lounge) a few bucks more.

Then there is that priority check-in, rather than wrangling your suitcase, printing your baggage tag and then taking it to the conveyer belt.

There's the welcome drink when you sit down on the plane, a full hot breakfast if you want it, and those bigger, more comfortable seats.

Nobody felt like splashing out $300+ plus, it seems, because our $65 bids were successful.

"Congratulations, your UpgradeMe Premium Bid offer has been successful!. We look forward to welcoming you onboard in our Business Class cabin."

A bit of a snooze in those comfy seats, a free orange juice, breakfast and first off the plane in Hobart with bags first to arrive because the Priority tags.

That's a win. I reckon it is worth putting in a minimum bid sometimes. 

Lots of people won't bother and the benefits can be well worth it - particularly if your departure is delayed an hour or two.

# Availability of Business Class seats is subject to change, which may impact upon your chance of a successful upgrade.

Airline employee allegedly targets celebrities

Look out if you are a celebrity.

Staff of the airline you are flying with might just be leaking your flight info.

Perhaps to paparazzi, maybe to stalkers. Who knows?

An incident involving South Korean boy band BTS (I thought that was the Bangkok Transport System, but there you go) recently hit the headlines.

Police are investigating an airline employee who is suspected of leaking flight details of celebrities, including those of the K-Pop stars.

South Korean police detained a woman in her 30s who is accused of selling the data.

The flight information leaked covers travel in 2023 and 2024 and allegedly covers hundreds of flights.

The woman has not been named, but works for an Asian airline.

She is suspected of using the airline’s systems to access passenger flight details including seat numbers, news portal Travel Mole reported.

South Korea police said they could expand the investigation to other people linked to the scheme.

“I initially obtained the boarding information at the request of an acquaintance, and later sold it for money,” the woman reportedly told police.

Image: Jan Niepel, Scopio 

Are wine drinkers falling out of love with high-end Bordeaux and Champagne?

Is the world falling out of love with premium French wines?

The value of French wine exports has fallen for a second year even as shipped volumes crept up, with consumers favouring more affordable bottles, British wine magazine Decanter has reported.

Data shows that Champagne exports slumped, while demand for more modestly priced sparkling wines increased.

Foreign buyers favoured more affordable bottles from the Loire Valley and Provence over high-end Bordeaux wines.

The value of wine exports fell 3% to €10.9 billon last year, French wine and spirits export agency FEVS said.

That remains the third-highest on record, as greater export demand for regional bubbles and still wine without a geographical denomination partly made up for dipping sales for Champagne and Bordeaux.

The volume of export shipments increased 0.7% to 124.1 million cases, relatively stable.

French wine exports overall faced a double impact from inflation and economic uncertainty, and a shift away from the most expensive wines to more affordable options, FEVS president Gabriel Picard told Decanter.

"There is undoubtedly a shift in consumption patterns, and maybe the end of a phenomenon of ultra-premiumisation," Picard said.

"Products with higher added value, at least the core of the range, have held up rather well or even progressed, for example in the case of sparkling wines, whereas the very expensive Champagnes have tended to decline."

Shipments to the UK, the second-largest export market for French winemakers, increased 5.4%, while the value of exports fell 3.9% to €1.4bn.

The value of French wine exports to China slumped 17%, and wine trade with Singapore and Hong Kong also declined.

Champagne, which remains France’s biggest wine export by value, had a tough year in 2024, with shipments falling 9.7% to 12.4 million cases and export value slipping 8% to €3.86bn.

By contrast, sparkling wines from other regions, including Crémant de Loire and Crémant d’Alsace, saw export volume rising 8% to 10.3 million cases, and the value jumping 9.5% to €426m.

Bordeaux exports fell 4.5% in volume to 16.6 million cases, while the value slipped 1.4% to €5.28bn.

The Loire Valley reported higher export volumes in 2024, while Provence also sold more wine abroad.

"We see that the mid-range tends to be more resilient, that goes for the reds and the whites," Picard said. "The other trend that we see is there tends to be some sort of decline in consumption of reds, and good resilience or progress for the white and rosé wines."

Image: Andrii Omelnytskiy, Scop.io

Is this the ultimate Cape winelands retreat?

There is nowhere on the planet that does wine tourism better than South Africa.

And there is nowhere in South Africa quite as stylish and appealing than the small town of Franschhoek, the gem of the Cape winelands. It's wild country: leopards have been spotted in those hills. 

The Royal Portfolio this week announced the launch of Franschhoek House, a six-bedroom exclusive-use villa on the 30-acre estate of La Residence.

Franschhoek House aims to entice multigenerational travellers and groups seeking private and personalised services.

The location - just an hour from Cape Town - makes it an ideal base from which to explore the many vineyards and cellar doors.

Think ancient vineyards, rugged mountain vistas, and landscaped gardens.

With six individually designed suites, the villa can accommodate up to 12 guests and showcases the region’s French heritage.

The property is operated by former fashionista Liz Biden and her family, whose Royal Portfolio properties also include The Silo Hotel in Cape Town and the Royal Malewane in the Kruger National Park.

The walls at Franschooek House feature artworks by renowned African artists, including pieces by Franklyn Dzingai, Tega Tsfadzwa, Amanda Mushate, Chokuwamba, Kate Gottgens and Grace Nyahanga. 

Additionally, there is a 17th-century tapestry by David Teniers II, from Aubusson, France.

The Long Room, at the centre of the property, features a bar, a comfortable lounge, and a full-size billiards table.

A private chef is on hand to create farm-to-table dishes, using fresh ingredients sourced from the estate and surrounding areas. The villa team also includes a host/concierge.

Outside, the villa offers multiple patios and a private heated pool that overlooks the vines. 

I'm hopeful an invitation will be on its way.

# The Royal Portfolio is a collection of ultra-luxury hotels, lodges, villas and private residences in South Africa.

See www.theroyalportfolio.com