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Industry News ....... click here for more

Broome wants Jetstar

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

Start your engine in Melbourne

6 January Those who like living life in the fast lane can take advantage of a special 2009 Formula One Australian Grand Prix package.

Bench adds choice for Africa

6 January Africa wholesaler, Bench International, is marking its 40th year with the addition of a range of new properties and itineraries to its recently released 2009 brochure.

Travellers vote to stay in Australia

5 January The plummeting Aussie dollar, global uncertainty and increased promotions of Australia’s domestic holiday products is driving a new wave of travellers, keen to explore their own backyard.

Emirates wins First Class Award

18 December Emirates has another trophy for the cabin after being named winner of Best First Class Airline at the annual Luxury Travel Gold List ceremony.

Report confirms tough domestic environment

17 December A new tourism report released today has confirmed what most industry members most suspected – it’s tough out there!

Big names for WA event calendar

16 December Greg Norman, Marat Safin and Lleyton Hewitt are among headline stars named within Western Australia’s 2009 events calendar, which was launched today.

Qantas and Woolworths join forces

15 December Qantas Airways and Woolworths Limited have teamed up to create one of the more unusual loyalty alliances, with shoppers earning redemption points while pushing a trolley.

15 December APT’s Kangaroo Island Odyssey initiative has been recognised for its commitment to sustainability, with Advanced EcoTourism accreditation being granted for its 4WD touring program on the island.

Egypt and Nile packages discounted

15 December Bench International has launched a new round of promotional pricing for its six-night Egypt packages, which include three night’s cruising on the River Nile.

Naiade offers big savings on Mauritius

12 December Savings of $660 a person are now available on a seven night stay at a choice of Naiade resorts in Mauritius, for travel between 1 May and 9 September 2009.

Air NZ names revised biofuel test date

12 December After delaying its testing to concentrate on the recent loss of an aircraft and crew in the Mediterranean, Air New Zealand has announced a revised date for the world’s first commercial aviation test flight powered by a sustainable second-generation biofuel.

Bids open for cultural events funding

11 December The WA government has allocated a funding pool to encourage the development of significant arts and cultural events during 2009.

Big jump for Kangaroo Island car fleet

5 December Hertz has announced plans for significant expansion of its operations on South Australia’s Kangaroo Island, to accommodate strong growth in both domestic and international visitor numbers.

Air NZ gathers to remember crash victims

5 December More than 20 family and friends, together with Air New Zealand and government support teams have gathered on Canet Beach, France, to remember the five New Zealanders and two German pilots tragically lost in the Airbus A320 accident last week.

Perth Bureau notches up winning bids

4 December The Perth Convention Bureau (PCB) has secured six conference for WA, which are expected to inject around $10.15 million in the State economy.

Hawaiian cuts fuel charge

4 December Hawaiian Airlines will reduce fuel surcharges on fares sold in Australia, effective from Monday 8 December.

Big fluctuations in car rental prices

4 December A survey of competing car rental operators’ prices for vehicles in France, the UK and US has shown rices differ by as much as $174 for a week’s rental in France; $115 in the UK and $81 in the US.

Free nights at Radisson Fiji

4 December Radisson Resort Fiji Denarau Island has launched an earlybird booking promotion that adds two free nights accommodation.

Singapore Airlines adds more evacuation flights to Thailand

2 December Singapore Airlines will continue twice-daily flights between U-Tapao (a military airport approximately 200 kilometres from Bangkok) and Singapore until Friday 5 December.

APT launches NZ air-tour deal

2 December APT is offering a special deal on its 21-day Great New Zealand Experience tours, with discounted fares and business class upgrades.

Government launches Aviation Green Paper

2 December The much-awaited release of the Federal Government’s draft National Aviation Policy Statement (Green Paper) has been welcomed by the industry, with airlines providing initial support for the recommendations.

Bench revamps Middle East

1 December Bench International has completely revamped its entire program for the popular Arabian Gulf destination of Oman, with a new 24-page brochure outlining the company’s expanded Middle East program.

New strategy to support tourism during slowdown

28 November WA tourism minister, Liz Constable, has moved to minimise the impact of the international economic downturn on the WA tourism industry, following the release of a report which predicts a reduction in tourism spending in Western Australia during 2009.

Oodles expands international footprints

28 November Online car rental service, Oodles.com has expanded its footprint to now offer Australian travellers the ability to compare and book car rental rates in the United States, United Kingdom and New Zealand.

Greyhound chases corporate market

27 November As a sign of the times, Greyhound Australia, has launched a department dedicated to servicing Australia’s corporate transportation needs.

Australia creates global buzz

24 November They say the proof is in the pudding, and Baz Luhrmann’s much publicized big-budget movie, is reportedly putting Australia on the holiday map, as it makes big news around the world.

Creative Holidays launches new China program

20 November Creative Holidays has released its second consolidated China and Hong Kong program, which is available for travel in 2009 and 2010.

Townsville ramps for tourism growth

20 November Townsville is stamping its authority as a must-see destination, with an increasing numbers of international tourists visiting the tropical city.

JUCY named best for backpackers

20 November New Zealand car and camplervan rental company, JUCY Rentals, has been named NZ’s Best Transport Company at the recent TNT Golden Backpack awards.

Tempo sets sail with new Greece Turkey brochure

20 November Tempo Holidays has expanded its Mediterranean cruising program in its latest Greece and Turkey brochure.

Intrepid launches "Australia" - On Location' tour

19 November Riding on promotions for the upcoming movie, Intrepid Travel has launched a new "Australia" - On Location’ itinerary that explores the regions and experiences reflected in the movie.

APT launches earlybird deals for WA and QLD

19 November APT has launched a range of earlybird specials for its outback programs in Western Australia and Queensland.

Sicily is Tempo highlight

19 November Tempo Holidays has added a Sicilian Highlights adventure to its 2009 Mediterranean program

China Southern boosts Christmas flights

19 November China Southern Airlines will increase its frequencies to daily services between Sydney and China from 2 December until 15 February 2009, to accommodate increased demand in the peak Christmas and New Year periods.

Australia gets first Red Bull pilot

19 November Matt Hall has become the first Australian pilot to gain a position to compete in the Red Bull Air Race World Championship.

Stopover in paradise

18 November Clients looking to holiday overseas in 2009 can take advantage of Air Mauritius’ early bird fares to the UK and Europe.

PATA claims Asia Pacific victory

18 November The Asia Pacific continues to grow into its reputation as being one of the world’s hottest travel destinations with the latest research data showing record numbers of international visitors exploring the region.

Word of mouth brings in Queenstown visitors

18 November New research has shown more than half of visitors to Queenstown (NZ) are inspired to visit by the stories of friends and fellow travelers.

Johnnie Walker plays into Perth

17 November Some of the world’s most exciting golfers will be back in Perth in February when The Johnnie Walker Classic returns to Australia.

Start your engine in Melbourne

17 November Those who like living life in the fast lane can take advantage of a special Formula One 2009 Australian Grand Prix package, thanks to Keith Prowse Sport and Entertainment Travel.

New challenges for corporate hotels

17 November In its recently released 2009 Asia Pacific Corporate Hotel Rate Projections and Market Forecast report, American Express highlights a number of issues it believes will challenge hoteliers and corporate buyers over the next 12 months.

New spot for Perth Airport

17 November Visitors to Perth now have more choice when choosing a rental car thanks to the introduction of Red Spot Car Rentals to the Domestic and International Terminals.

Live free for a year

14 November Creative Holidays is offering agents the opportunity to live free for a year, with a little help from their latest agent incentive – the chance to win one of six fortnightly prizes of $2000, $10,000 worth of travel, or one major prize of $40,000, drawn at the end of the incentive period.

Buckley names finish date at Tourism Australia

14 November Tourism Australia managing director, Geoff Buckley, has named a date to depart TA, with an extension to his contract that will see him working through until 30 June 2009.

Hatton hangs up his hat

13 November The Australian Federation of Travel Agents (AFTA) has announced that its high profile chief executive, Mike Hatton, will retire at the end of this year, after 11 years of service with the industry body.

Bring on the Games says Britain

13 November The UK’s key tourism stakeholders, VisitBritain, and Visit London, have unveiled plans to welcome the world to the next Olympic Games and Paralympic Games in 2012.

AAT showcases premium WA

13 November Growing demand for quality Western Australian holiday product has prompted AAT Kings to create a blend of popular favourites and new experiences across the state in its 2009/10 Western Australia premium brochure.

WA launches ‘Australia’ campaign

12 November With the launch of Baz Luhrmann’s epic film scheduled for next week, Tourism Western Australia has launched its $2.2 million cross-marketing promotion.

Rail Plus packages Paris with hotel

12 November Rail Plus has released a special package which combines France Rail Pass and two nights in the three-star Hotel Marena in Paris.

Facelift for Shamrock Agent site

12 November Tourism Ireland’s travel industry website, Shamrock Agent, has emerged from a major rework to overcome some of the niggling problems associated with an ageing website.

Ireland to launch mega-roadshow

11 November Tourism Ireland is teaming with industry partner, Etihad Airways to launch its 2008 tourism roadshow.

Etihad early birds

11 November Etihad Airways has releases special discounted ‘Early Bird’ fares for 2009.

Tourism Australia targets Malaysia

11 November Tourism Australia is targeting Asia’s lucrative business events market, with the launch of the 2009 Team Australia Business Events Educational (TABEE), which will be held in Kuala Lumpur between 2-4 March 2009.

Tasmania named among world’s best

11 November Tasmania has ranked highly in the recent Condé Nast Traveller’s Reader’s Choice Awards.

Explore rail bargains

11 November Explore Rail has launched a range of bargain-priced BritRail adventures, with low season specials cutting 20 percent off a variety of BritRail passes.

Banff-Lake Louise open for Canada ski

10 November The Canadian Rocky Mountain resorts of Lake Louise and Mt. Norquay have become the first ski areas to open in Canada, following a fresh cover on top of consistent early snowfalls.

Peregrine offers Polar price guarantee

10 November Adventure travel operator, Peregrine, has announced it will freeze fuel and currency surcharges on its 2009-2010 Antarctic voyages.

Savings on African adventure

10 November Bench International has discounted more of its Africa product, with a $600 per person savings on a range of selected departures on overland adventures with Kiboko.

Jetset Travelworld signals profit warning

7 November Only months after its acquisition by Qantas Holidays, Jetset Travelworld Group has signalled an expected drop in profit as a result of global financial turmoil and the deteriorating exchange rate of the Australian dollar.

KEA offers half price agent rates

7 November In recognition of the huge support of its travel agent and wholesale partners, KEA Campers is offering Australian agents up to 50 percent off campervan and motorhome discounts throughout December and January.

Big Savings on Africa safaris

7 November Africa safari specialist, Bench International, is offering last-minute savings of $385 per person on a selected range of Africa safari holidays at the Honeyguide tented camps in South Africa’s Manyeleti Game reserve.

Tahiti and Bora Bora on a budget

7 November Accor Hotels has teamed up with Tahiti Travel Connections to offer two great holiday packages to explore Tahiti and her islands without breaking the bank.

Rowing to Mauritius

6 November It may be a case of sky-rocketing fuel prices, but a group of rowers are about to embark the journey of a lifetime – rowing from Australia to Mauritius.

APT tops up Tassie discounts

4 November APT has increased discounts on two of its Tasmania tours scheduled for early next year, with couples now saving up to $700 on their tours.

Free agents tickets for Africa

4 November The Africa Safari Co is offering a Christmas cash incentive for travel agents as well as the opportunity to win airline tickets to explore the destination.

Red Bull wings into Perth

3 November Under a cloudless sky, Britain’s Paul Bonhomme scored a determined victory in the final race of the Red Bull Air Race World Championship in Perth yesterday.

Hertz triples points for Europe

3 November Global car rental giant, Hertz, is offering Qantas Frequent Flyer members the opportunity to earn triple points when renting cars in the United Kingdom, Ireland and Europe.

Etihad celebrates the ‘Mo’

3 November Etihad Airways has partnered with ‘Movember’ to raise funds for men’s health issues, with a focus on prostate cancer and male depression.

Poly Blue launches seat sale

30 October Virgin blue subsidiary, Polynesian Blue is celebrating its third birthday with a seat sale that is offering one-way fares between Apia (Samoa) and New Zealand and Australia from $123.

UTracks grows against the trends

30 October Self-guided tour operator, Utracks, is reporting a doubling in its business across Europe and will expand its 2009 program by 25 percent to meet demand.

InterCon supports careers expo

30 October InterContinental Hotels Group(IHG) was the major presence at this year’s Association of Australian Hotel Schools (AAHS) Hospitality Careers Expo, which was held recently at Redfern’s Technology Park in Sydney.

Ski offers more bang for Aussie buck

29 October With the looming cloud of financial uncertainty, many Australian families re-considering their overseas holiday travel plans.

King named as new President

29 October Long time tourism identity, Paul King, has been elected as the new President of Tourism Council WA.

Red Bull pilots fly in

29 October Perth’s Langley Park will be today officially opened as the Red Bull Air Race World Championship runway with all twelve race pilots flying in and landing for the first time this year.

WA launches new tour guides course

28 October Delivering consistently high levels of service is always a challenge for tour operators, with guides operating independently – and often far away from supervisors.

Rail Plus welcomes first rail earlybirds

27 Octobre Rail Plus innovative earlybirds have one month to run with special fares set to close on 27 November.

Rotorua-Australia flights for mid-year

27 October Direct flights between Australia and New Zealand’s central North Island city of Rotorua could start as early as June 2009 with the district council approving the NZ$8.4 million extension and upgrading of its airport to international status.

Red Bull Air Race to stay in Perth

27 October Western Australia will retain rights to hist the Red Bull Air Race for another three years following a state government agreement to continue support for the event.

Qualmark marks 15 years

24 October New Zealand’s official tourism rating system, Qualmark, has celebrated its 15th anniversary with more than 2100 tourism operators nationwide now using the accreditation system.

New global business boss for South Africa

23 October South African tourism has increased its focus on business tourism with the appointment of a dedicated Global Manager for Business Tourism.

Dreamworld opens after dark

23 October Gold Coast theme park, Dreamworld, is turning into a scream park with a special after dark opening on 7 November. The park will open for a special after dark session from 6.30pm to 10pm with special ticket prices and group booking packages.

CWT chases Carbon Neutral goal

23 October Global hotel giant, Carlson Wagonlit Travel (CWT), has signed a global agreement with the leading carbon offset and climate consulting firm, The CarbonNeutral Company, to provide emissions management services to CWT clients.

Trafalgar offers more Europe

23 October European specialist, Trafalgar Tours has released its new 2009 Europe & Britain Brochure, offering a comprehensive program featuring eight styles of touring.

ITB Asia opens

23 October Asia’s travel trade has moved into a new era with the opening of the region’s largest travel trade show, ITB Asia, at the Suntec Singapore International Convention and Exhibition Centre.

End of season car specials

22 October European car leasing specialist, globalCARS, is offering some great specials with end-of-season vehicle deals on Renault and Citroen products in France.

More awards for Gold Coast

22 October Gold Coast Airport continues to fly high after walking away with the best airport marketing award for the Asia Pacific region.

Sydney named world's best

20 October Sydney has been voted the number one city in the world for the 13th time at the prestigious Conde Nast Traveller Awards in New York.

Hertz adds triple point bonus

17 Ocotber Hertz has launched a new deal offering Qantas Frequent Flyer members a triple point bonus when renting cars in the United Kingdom, Ireland and Europe between 28 October 2008 and 31 July, 2009.

Airlines cut fuel charges

17 October With oil prices dropping to around US$70 per barrel, airlines are responding by dropping their fuel surcharges, making travel more affordable.

New schedule for Air Tahiti Nui

16 October Air Tahiti Nui will introduce new daylight saving schedules from Australia to Tahiti, effective from 26 October.

Demand forces Garuda Indonesia to open longer

16 October Last week’s release of special launch fares to celebrate Garuda Indonesia’s return to the Brisbane Bali route, has generated a rush of enquiries to the airline’s Sydney-based reservations department.

Creative Holidays takes on Uniworld river cruises

16 October Creative Holidays will begin selling selected Uniworld boutique river cruises through its ‘iCreate’ portal, adding further functionality and options to the trade booking engine.

Solomon Islands celebrates Pacific Blue services

15 October Solomon Islands Visitors Bureau has welcomed the move by Pacific Blue to launch flights to the Solomon Islands from Brisbane.

Green Globe lightens the load

15 October Environmental benchmark organisation, Green Globe, has launched a new online program to help organisation’s measure their performance.

NZ coach specials

15 October APT has savings of $950 per couple on its 18-day Royal Tourer Premier tour in New Zealand.

Tempo adds more Greece

14 October Greek island hopping has been given a boost in Tempo Holidays latest brochure with a 10-day Mykonos and Santorini package.

Emirates Terminal 3 gears for growth

14 October Emirates has opened its new mega-terminal (T3) in Dubai which has been designed to manage the regional doiuble-digit passenger growth into the future.

Cash Passport sales tipped to rise

13 October With the Australian dollar falling, travellers are moving quickly to lock in the current exchange rate before the dollar loses even more ground.

Record profit for Travellers Choice

13 October Travellers Choice retail group has announced a record trading surplus of $212,599 for the 2007-08 financial year, jumping more than 40 per cent on last year's net profit.

US Winter ready for business

9 October While chaos reigns in Wall Street, optimism is high in the Colorado Rocky Mountains, about the forthcoming winter at the mega ski resort of Vail in Colorado.

Qantas cuts fuel surcharge

9 October With fuel today down to US$90 per barrel, Qantas has announced a reduction in its international fuel surcharges.

Save $1000 on NZ touring

9 October APT is offering savings of $1000 per couple ($500 per person) on its popular 21-day Great New Zealand Experience Premier Plus tour.

Bikers head to WA south

9 October Western Australia’s southern forests are set to host hundreds of competitive and recreational mountain bike this month, when they set out on the inaugural Cape to Cape MTB Challenge.

Tempo tastes Amalfi coast

8 October Italy’s charming Amalfi Coast is the subject of special attention from Tempo Holidays with two new packages.

Black box secured from QF72

8 October Investigations are continuing into the mid-air emergency aboard QF72 yesterday which saw the aircraft dispatch a MayDay call before making an emergency landing in the northwest township of Learmonth.

Qantas makes emergency landing in WA

Qantas has suffered another mid-air emergency with QF72 flying between Singapore and perth decalring a Mayday before amking an emergency landing at Exmouth airport in Western Australia’s North West cape.

GA releases Brisbane-Bali launch fares

6 October Garuda Indonesia has marked the re-commencement of its Brisbane-Bali services with a launch fare of $940 return, including taxes.

Rail Plus sells Amtrak pass

3 October Australia’s biggest supplier of rail, Rail Plus is selling the new Amtrak USA Rail Pass.

Fiji goes back to the future with new CEO

3 October Former Fiji Islands Visitors Bureau CEO, Josefa Tuamoto, is set to return to his old past in the dual roles of Chief Executive and international director of marketing.

Etihad opens new Sydney office

3 October Etihad Airways has officially opened the doors to its new Sydney Head Office.

October bargains with KEA

3 October KEA campers has launched a new last-minute special for Australian travellers cutting 25 percent off New Zealand rentals during October.

New deals from Norfolk Air

2 October Norfolk Air has expanded its services, with the launch of a new weekly service into the Gold Coast to tap into one of Norfolk Island’s strongest markets.

Amtrak adds flexible rail pass

2 October Amtrak has released its new 2008-09 US Rail Pass offering more flexibility and options for Australian travellers to enjoy intercity rail services.

Kids ride duck for free

1 October Popular Gold Coast aquatic tour – Adventure Duck - is offering free rides for kids aboard its amphibious vehicle.

Dreamworld offers early entry tickets to Big Six

30 September Gold Coast theme park, Dreamworld, is offering thrill seekers an advanced rush on some of the tallest and fastest thrill rides in the world, with a new $10 surcharge to access the park early.

Cut price business and first class fares

30 September Direct Flights International has packaged a new range of business and first class fares flying with Emirates into Europe.

School holidays powder at Treble Cone

29 September New Zealand’s Treble Cone ski area lies blanketed in snow after a massive dump of fresh powder.

Emirates offers special fares for Europe

25 September Emirates has launched a round of promotional fares to Europe, with prices starting from $1898 return ex-Perth. Taxes are additional.

Qantas puts FF float on holding pattern

24 September Qantas has postponed the public float of its frequent flyer program as a result of the current market conditions.

Airtrain flying high

23 September Brisbane’s Airtrain has left its shaky beginnings behind, with the popular airport rail link carrying a record 1.64 million passengers over the financial year while writing a $4.8 million profit.

APT cuts fares for Canada and Alaska

23 September APT has launched a new range of airfares and discounted packages for its Canada and Alaska products.

Walshe expands portfolio

22 September NZ-based Southern Holdings Travel – parent to The Walshe Group – has expanded its New Zealand product with the acquisition of inbound operator, Experience New Zealand Travel.

Snow falls on Perisher Blue

23 September After 16 weeks of snow, Perisher Blue is still reporting falls, with management now expecting the season to ski through until 6 October.

Malaysia jumps 50 per cent for Australians

22 September Malaysia continues to increase its share of Australian travellers, with the nation enjoying a massive 50 per cent jump in August arrivals.

Mark Vaile joins Virgin board

22 September Former deputy prime minister, Mark Vaile has joined the board of Virgin Blue Holdings Limited as a non-executive independent director.

Continental adds Guam stopover

22 September Continental Airlines has introduced a new range of stopover packages to tropical Guam in exotic Micronesia, with process starting from A$55 per person twin share per-night.

Car lease special extended

19 September GlobalCARS has extended its leasing specials to now allow for collections up until 3 June 2009.

Lacaze takes hold of Stella

19 September Former Transonic boss, Peter Lacaze has taken over as chief executive of Stella Travel, following the 16 September resignation of Keith Stanley.

Tickets on sale for Socceroos match

19 September Tickets packages are still available for the Australia versus Qatar match which will be played out at the Brisbane Stadium on 15 October.

Qantas unveils new crew uniforms

18 September Qantas is set to launch a new version of its cabin crew uniforms to coincide with the commencement of its A380 flights in October.

OETG teams with Pinpoint

18 September Orient Express Travel Group has signed an agreement to team with the Pinpoint Travel Group’s Freestyle holiday programs.

Travel seminar outlines the future

17 September The Association of National Tourist Office Representatives (ANTOR) is hosting a special 'The Future of Travel' seminar in Sydney on 24 September to discuss the range of vital issues facing the tourism industry midst a changing, fragile environment.

Royal Brunei slashes fares

16 September Royal Brunei Airlines has teamed with online discount travel agent, Direct Flights International, to offer special low return fares from Perth to London starting from $1242 return, including taxes.

Tourists undeterred by Thai turmoil

16 September The localised nature of the demonstrations – which are concentrated around Bangkok’s government precinct – are considered to present little risk to visiting tourists.

APT offers more Kimberley

12 September Growing demand for Northern Australia wilderness experiences has seen APT combine popular favourites with a new range of experiences across Australia’s north west.

Tourism beginning to hurt in Thai stand-off

11 September The prolonged political stand-off in Thailand is starting to impact tourism.

Low season BritRail deals

9 September Rail Plus is offering 20 percent off British rail passes for the 1 November –28 February low season.

Red Centre draws water lovers

8 September Alice Springs has again hosted one of the world’s most extraordinary sporting events, with the ‘sailing’ of the quirky Henley On Todd dry river regatta last month.

Formula One around the bend

8 September The world’s first Grand Prix night race - the inaugural 2008 Formula 1 SingTel Singapore Grand Prix - is just a few twists and turns away, with the action kicking off after dark on 28 September.

China beyond the Olympics

8 September China is set to become the world’s number one tourism destination by 2014, with cities large and small across the nation already attracting climbing tourists numbers.

Tempo roams the Rhone

3 September Tempo Holidays’ has launched a new nine-day self-drive Wine Route tour through the Rhone Valley, designed for independent travellers keen to explore the region’s vineyards (wine) and the countryside.

Tempo adds more Egypt

2 September Tempo has increased product in its latest Total Egypt package to include Alexandria, Cairo, Abu Simbel, cruising the Nile and Lake Nasser and World War II battlefields at El Alamein.

Car leases rates on hold

2 September GlobalCars has put its lease rates on hold for bookings made on Citroen vehicles in Europe.

Budget opens in Vietnam

2 September Fueled by a booming visitors’ market in Vietnam, Budget Rent A Car, has opened its doors in Ho Chi Minh City.

Guangzhou shows off tourism potential

28 August As one of China’s major southern gateways, Guangzhou, is promoting its tourism potential as an emerging stopover destination for travel throughout China.

US car rental from A$48 a day

27 August Car rental car operator, globalCARS, is offering discounted rates on car rental in Los Angeles, New York and San Francisco from $48 a day for bookings made by 30 September.

Post-Games packages released

26 August Orient Express Holidays has released three post Olympic Games packages, starting from $1309.

Free return air on Top End rail

25 August Rail Plus has launched a new rail package offer which includes free return economy class flights.

New brochure for Outback Discovery

25 August The Kimberley, Top End, Cape York and the Nullabor are covered along with Outback Queensland, WA Spring Wildflowers, Tasmania Wilderness as well as Kangaroo Island and the Flinders Ranges.

New look for Brisbane Airport

25 August Virgin Blue is just days away from revealing a major upgrade of its check-in area at Brisbane domestic airport.

Travel Japan on track

22 August Travel Japan has launched discounted pricing on all seven, 14 and 21 consecutive day Japan Rail passes.

Sky-high recommendations

22 August Singapore Airlines has added a new feature to its KrisWorld inflight entertainment, with US film critic, Leonard Maltin, sharing his recommendations and movie reviews.

Jetset rings up big profit

21 August Riding on the back of its recent annual conference and Qantas Holidays merger, Jetset Travelworld (JTG) has reported a massive jump in profits for the financial year, clocking up $15.3 million after tax – which is up 32 percent on the previous year.

Amadeus launches ‘no-disruption’ training

20 August Automation technology provider, Amadeus, has launched a new training system allowing Australian travel agents to undertake the latest Amadeus training courses directly from their desk.

APT offers Tassie deals

20 August APT is cutting the price of its Gourmet Adventurer small group tours in Tasmania by between $350 to $400 per couple, for bookings made before 31 October.

Qantas names new CFO

20 August Qantas Airways chief financial officer (CFO), Peter Gregg, has resigned his role and will also step down as a member of the airline’s board on 30 September 2008.

Save $700 on car leasing

20 August Car lease operator, globalCARS, is offering savings of over $700 on a 21-day lease for travellers to Europe.

Grand Pacific Drive open for tourists

19 August Almost 12 months after the first cars rolled down the bitumen, one of New South Wales’ most scenic highways was officially opened this week, with Federal Tourism Minister Martin Ferguson.

Bargains on Germany motorhomes

19 August Discovering Europe by motorhome is gaining momentum as a self-drive travel option, with GlobalCars packaging a new range of affordable campervan options that will allow travellers to explore Europe at their leisure.

NZ ski resorts break three-metre mark

18 August New Zealand’s central North Island ski resorts of Turoa and Whakapapa, on Mt Ruapehu are reporting massive snow falls, with more than three metres dumpled so far this year.

Tempo continues to build Mid East

18 August A huge 36 percent jump in forward bookings for Middle East and Gulf States products is being reported by Tempo Holidays product manager Jeremy Hearst, as the company launches its latest Egypt and Dubai brochure.

Red Spot moves into Perth Airport

15 August Red Spot Car Rentals is expanding its airport presence with the company approved for the formal grant of an on-airport licence at Perth Airport.

SAA flies Adults for Kids prices

15 August South African Airways (SAA) has launched a range of discounted economy-class airfares for flights to South Africa, with adults charged at children’s prices.

Snow dump for Queenstown ski areas

15 August Snow falling down to lake level has brought smiles to the faces of skiers and snowboarders in Queenstown, many of whom are enjoying a fantastic, blue ski powder day at Coronet Peak and The Remarkables today.

Oman eyes Australian potential

14 August A record year of tourism growth and increases in direct air services between Australia and the Arabian Gulf was all the Oman Ministry of Tourism needed to give the green light to a major tourism drive designed to capture more of the Australian market.

Terminal WA underway

14 August The first stage of Perth Airport’s $1 billion redevelopment is underway with commencement of works on the new Terminal WA aircraft-parking apron.

Small World opens in Hong Kong

14 August Disneyland Hong Kong continues to add to its collection of classic attractions with the recent opening of one of Disney’s all-time favourites – It’s a Small World.

Singapore streets roar into F1 action

13 August Singapore will rewrite motor racing history next month when it hosts the world’s first Formula One night Grand Prix.

Esperance proves its credentials

13 August Ongoing tourism promotions and increased awareness of the destination, has seen the South West coastal township of Esperance enjoy a massive 23 percent jump in holiday and leisure visitor numbers.

Passengers say no to mobiles

12 August Safety, affordable fares and a ban on mobile phones are the top priorities for Australian airline passengers, according to a survey conducted by online travel agent, Direct Flights International.

Dry river boat race draws visitors to the Red Centre

12 August Adventures to Alice Springs have been amazed once more with the spectacle of locals ‘sailors’ hosting their extraordinary Henley-On-Todd dry river regatta.

Youth passes next big rail seller

The booming youth travel market is fuelling growing demand for rail travel across Europe, with Rail Plus ranking ‘youth rail passes’ as its big selling item for the 2009 northern summer.

Tempo gets wet in Brazil

12 August Tempo Holidays has packaged a new experience that will meet the needs of even the most hard-core nature-based traveller.

Understanding research and strategies

12 August With the world awash with information, the challenge for marketers, researchers and planners is to cut through the clutter to find that nugget of gold that heralds a business opportunity in the making.

Buller reaches magic metre

11 August Mt Buller is enjoying a 20 centimetres powdering of fresh snow bringing the natural average snow depth past the magic one-metre mark.

Etihad expands Victoria team

11 August With the upcoming launch of new Melbourne flights, Etihad Airways, has appointed its new state manager Victoria, Tasmania and South Australia, with Jon Marshall taking on the role.

Emirates installs in-flight mobiles

6 August Despite mixed feelings among passengers, Emirates has becoming the first airline to introduce in-flight mobile phone services on a Boeing aircraft.

Malaysia numbers still on the rise

5 August Malaysia continues to attract international travellers to its shores with a 2.6 percent increase in cumulative arrivals to Malaysia between January and June 2008 when compared to the same period last year.

Qualmark Green underway

5 August New Zealand tourism operators have a new environmental and social benchmark from today with the new Qualmark Green accreditation being implemented.

Norfolk Island hosts international golf challenge

5 August Norfolk Island is set to host the second annual Governor’s Cup, an international teams event offering $10,000 worth of prizes.

Hospitality industry feels economic bite

5 August Rising costs and falling share prices brought about by the downturn in the economy are forcing businesses to reassess their travel expenditure, resulting in the Australian hospitality industry having to cater for a new client - the ‘budget executive’.

Big savings for Botanica launch

4 August The new Botanica World Discoveries 2009 brochure has been launched with discounted Europe airfares and discounts of up to 50 percent for some travellers.

South West airport consultants appointed

4 August Growing tourism to Australia’s southwest has seen Tourism Western Australia appoint a consultant group to investigate the need for an airport in the region.

Hot Japan ski deals

1 August Japan Holidays has launched the ultimate ski package to the picturesque snow-white slopes of Hakuba Valley, in the heart of Japan.

Hash brings $12.5 million into WA

31 July Western Australian enjoyed a $12.5 million windfall with the hosting of international running event - Interhash 2008 in march this year.

Tempo adds France to Anzac Day choice

30 July A seven-day package from Paris to the battlefields of Villers-Bretonneux and seven Gallipoli tour options are being offered in Tempo Holidays’ new stand-alone Anzac Day 2009 mini-brochure.

Bookings open for AIME 2009

30 July Priority bookings are now open for Australia’s premier meetings and incentives conference, AIME 2009.

Viva! Holidays opens China gateway

29 July Viva! Holidays and Cathay Pacific have joined forces to open the China market to Viva! Products.

Hertz brings online check in to Australia

29 July Hertz has introduced a new online check-in service for customers in Australia to make speed up vehicle delivery times.

GSR ups fuel surcharge

28 July Great Southern Rail is set to increase fuel surcharges for its The Ghan, Indian Pacific and The Overland services.

Water levels high for white water classic

25 July High water levels are set to make next weekend’s 36th annual Brookfield Multiplex Avon Descent a thrilling, fast-paced event, with plenty of white-water action.

Fiat joins Sixt in Sydney

24 July Fiat and Sixt Car Rental have joined forces with the addition of new Fiat 500s to its Sydney fleet.

Sydney Airport hits back at fees

24 July Sydney Airport’s chief executive has hit back at calls by Regional Express (REX) to freeze aeronautical fees, saying the airline should check its records.

ITB Asia sold out

23 July Asia’s largest travel industry event has sold out months before it opens, with organisers of the inaugural ITB Asia closing sales of floor space.

New program for working holidays

23 July Award-winning touring & training company Global Gypsies has added a practical new feature to its website -a free guide for nomads seeking part-time, temporary or voluntary work during their travels.

Bavaria heads Tempo Christmas program

23 July Bavaria heads up Tempo Holidays European Christmas program for 2008.

Tomatoes anyone?

21 July Imagine one small street in a tiny Spanish town, packed with over 20 000 people prepared to spend a solid hour slogging each other with tomatoes. Sounds crazy but it’s true. On the last Wednesday in August each year, the town of Buñol plays host to La Tomatina - one of the world’s most bizarre and messiest festivals.

APT launches garden tours

21 July APT has launched a series of product briefings to agents following the release of its latest joint venture - Botanica World Discoveries gardening tours.

Malaysia gets two UNESCO sites

21 July The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization’s (UNESCO) World Heritage Committee has inscribed the historic cities of Melaka and George Town, Penang, on to the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Jetset sale approved

17 July Jetset, Qantas Holidays and Qantas Business Travel are set to merge with Jetset Travelworld Limited (JTG) after shareholders approved the proposed merger.

Bargains on Germany motorhomes

15 July Explore Europe at your own leisure with a range of special deals on motorhome.

Hotel rooms stay open during gas shortage

15 July Its business as usual for Western Australia’s hotel industry despite the state’s gas shortage.

Qantas commits to Jetset-QH merger

12 July After a week of tension, Jetset Travelworld (JTG) and Qantas Holidays have confirmed the parties will proceed with their merger plans, following a commitment from Qantas Airways to make additional marketing payments to Qantas Holidays to support destination marketing activities.

Creative Holidays finds fame at NTIA Awards

12 July Creative Holidays was voted Best Wholesaler, International for the fourth year running at the recent National Travel Industry Awards, confirming its position as one of Australia’s leading wholesalers.

OETG companies reconstruct to one

12 July The divisional companies of Orient Express Travel Group have consolidated to now trade under the umbrella company Orient Express Travel Services P/L (OETS).

Las Vegas gets new brand

12 July The Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) has launched a new international brand marketing strategy to support a program that is designed to expand Las Vegas’ global reach.

Hong Kong jumps again

11 July Latest visitor figures show Hong Kong’s tourism industry continues to boom.

Frost win Tourism NT creative tender

11 July Frost Design has been reappointed as Tourism NT’s creative agency for the next three years supplying creative, brand and advertising services to promote the Northern Territory as a tourist destination.

LTM Travel changes name

6 July LTM Travel Management, the corporate arm of the Leggett Travel Group, is being rebranded to Concierge Business Traveller, effective July 1.

More snow for NZ South Island

10 July New Zealand is enjoying a bumper start to its snow season with 25 centimetres of fresh snow at Mt Hutt, 15 at the top of Coronet Peak and 10 at the peak of The Remarkables, as wintry storm fronts continue to dump snow across New Zealand’s premier South Island ski areas.