Queenstown, New Zealand, attracts 1.5 million Australian tourists annually, with Western Australia contributing 100,000 visitors. This popularity aligns with the rise of regenerative tourism, emphasizing sustainable practices and community benefit. Destination Queenstown’s initiatives, including a carbon-zero goal by 2030 and a short film series highlighting local businesses, showcase its commitment to eco-conscious travel.
Riverside Luxury Cruises has launched a new online certification program for travel advisors, offering exclusive benefits like FAM trip discounts and an 18% commission. The six-module course provides in-depth knowledge of the brand and its luxurious river cruises. Advisors completing the program by January 31st, 2025, will also receive a $25 Amazon gift card.
A tourist ferry, ‘Neel Kamal’, sank off the Mumbai coast after a collision with an Indian Navy boat, resulting in 14 deaths. CISF commandos performed heroic rescues, preventing further casualties. The incident highlights concerns about maritime safety and emergency response protocols.
Des Moines International Airport anticipates a busy holiday season with nearly 300 flights and 79,000 passengers between December 21, 2024 and January 4, 2025. Heartwarming reunions of families and loved ones highlight the emotional significance of holiday travel, beyond the logistical aspects. The airport’s efficient operations and warm atmosphere create a welcoming experience for travelers.
Rocca delle Tre Contrade in Sicily hosts renowned chefs for week-long culinary residencies. Pastry chef Claire Ptak recently led a program focusing on Sicilian pastries and local ingredients. The program is highly luxurious, combining gourmet cooking with stays in a beautifully restored 19th-century villa. It offers an immersive Sicilian experience, blending food, culture, and breathtaking scenery.
easyJet announces new routes from Lisbon to Palermo and Tirana for summer 2025, adding to its expanding European network. This expansion reflects increasing demand for affordable travel and Portugal’s growing role as a major European travel hub. The airline aims to offer diverse travel options, promote sustainable tourism through year-round service, and showcase lesser-known destinations.
Mexico’s tourism sector is set to receive a major boost after announcing visa-free access for citizens of 66 countries, effective December 21, 2024. This move is expected to significantly increase tourist arrivals and stimulate economic growth across the nation, benefiting various sectors and promoting sustainable tourism initiatives.
A surge in air travel demand from Chennai for the Christmas and New Year holidays has led to a sharp increase in domestic and international flight fares. Prices for some routes have increased threefold or more. Train tickets are sold out, and bus fares have also risen. This situation highlights the challenges of peak season travel and its impact on the aviation and tourism industries.
Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) saw a record-breaking November 2024, handling 4.77 million travelers and 27,200 air traffic movements. The peak day, November 27th, saw 941 flights. Key domestic routes were Delhi, Bangalore, and Goa, while Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and London led international travel. Cargo volume also reached impressive heights.
The 2024 holiday travel season is seeing a surge in air travel, with TSA expecting nearly 40 million passengers. Despite the increase, flight cancellations are at a decade low. New regulations provide stronger consumer protections, including automatic refunds for significant flight disruptions and a ban on hidden fees for accommodations and event tickets. Travelers are urged to plan ahead and be aware of their rights.
