Asian Magazine’s Poll ranks Malaysia Airlines 7 in the Top 10 Airlines Worldwide

Malaysia Airlines has made it to the 7th spot from the earlier 8th last year in the Top 10 Airlines Worldwide category under the Best in Travel Poll 2010 conducted by Smart Travel Asia, an Asian Magazine. The airliner also netted the 5th and 6th ranks in the Top 10 Airlines Cabin Service and Top 10 Airlines Business Class categories respectively. The top place in the poll went to Singapore Airlines, while the second, third, and fourth spots were claimed by Cathay Pacific, Emirates, and Thai Airways International respectively. The fifth place was shared by Jet Airways and Virgin Atlantic. British Airways grabbed the sixth spot and the seventh place was again a shared one between Lufthansa and Malaysia Airlines. The 8th and 9th positions went to Qantas and Korean Air respectively. Air France and Qatar had to together contend with the 10th spot.

A travel magazine on Asia called Smart Travel Asia conducted the poll. The poll was carried out to study the outlook of Smart Travel Asia readers towards their favourite travel brands. In order to give a truly global character to the poll, different nationalities were included in the exercises. While 60% of the voters belonged to Asia, 20% hailed from the UK and Europe, and another 20% from the US. It is noteworthy that Kuala Lumpur based Malaysia Airlines is a well known name in the Europe as it operates numerous flights especially to and from the UK.

The Senior General Manager - Managing Director’s Office, Mr Muzzaffar Othman stated that Asia has been airline’s key market and it was a matter of delight to have received the recognition as 60 percent of the voters were based in Asia. Mr. Othman saw the recognition as a further boost to the airline’s commitment to provide 5 star value services to its customers.

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Tourist Attractions in Bangkok

Bangkok is one of the most popular and happening tourist spots in the world and that is why most of the flights to Bangkok are often cramming with foreign visitors. The city overwhelms tourists with stunning sights, effervescent nightlife, delightful food and best shopping experience. The Thai culture and history is reflected in places such as the Grand Palace and the National Museum. Apart from glorious treasures of history and relics, such places are admired for their fabulous architecture.

You can also visit the serene Lumpini Park which is sure to astound you with its picturesque beauty and allure. Additionally, the city has numerous mesmerising temples, such as Wat Phra Khaeo with the Emerald Buddha, Wat Pho and the colourful Wat Arun. For shopaholics, Bangkok is what they would like to call ‘the heaven.’ With amazing discounts available at various stores, you can have all that you want and that too without burning a hole in your pocket. Chatuchak Weekend Market, Suan Lum Night Bazaar, Siam Paragon and Robinsons Sukhumvit are some of the places where you would like to go for that truly wonderful shopping experience.

Bangkok is famous for its rejuvenating spas where you can either get yourself pampered or try out some specialised treatment massages. The culinary experience of the city also stands out. Bangkok has some of the most top of the line restaurants that serve mouth watering multi cuisine dishes. The city’s street food is equally delectable that is capable of fulfilling each and every gastronomic desire.

Bangkok boasts of world class cinema halls which are extremely modernised with excellent décor and stylish design. Bangkok is that rare city that has something for everyone. Catch any of the flights to Thailand and find out what the place has to offer to you.

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Cold Water over Virgin Blue Aspirations

Virgin Blue received a major blow with the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) giving a tentative decision against the airline’s cooperation strategy with Delta and Air New Zealand. This is a major setback to Virgin Blue’s plans of putting up a serious challenge to its much bigger rival, Qantas. As per the ACCC, the alliance can kill competition in the trans-Tasman market of air passenger service. ACCC further pointed out that Virgin Blue is a major competitor to Air New Zealand and the alliance will jeopardise competition on numerous trans-Tasman routes. ACCC also justified its stand by clarifying that more than a million passengers will face an adverse impact if competition between Virgin Blue and Air New Zealand comes to an end. In other words, there would be a shortage of cheap flights. However, these observations have not been well received by many industry experts.

Insiders point out that some years back, Australian authorities granted approval to cooperation proposal between Air New Zealand and Qantas. This proposal had a much more far reaching impact and could not go through only because New Zealand Commerce Commission rejected it on the grounds of adversely impacting competition in New Zealand’s domestic sector. Both airlines had captured about 80% of the market at that point of time. This has naturally caused many to raise the question as to why this alliance was given the nod from Australia, while the current one has been shelved.

In fact, industry experts have gone on to point out many other flaws with the ACCC decision. These are:

- Credibility of calling Virgin Blue ‘Maverick’

- Tiger Role

- Competition is Presently Unsustainable

Best 5 Honeymoon destinations in the World

There are a number of destinations around the world that show up when you search for a honeymoon holiday. However, there are a few destinations that actually fit the bill nicely. If you are also to embark on your honeymoon in the near future then look at the following destinations and the reasons why they are desired by many a newly wedded couples and holidaymakers alike.

Thailand

Thailand is home to some of the best know beach resorts such as Phuket, Koh Samui, Krabi and Pattaya. This is one destination that has all the trappings of a perfect honeymoon getaway. Apart from great beaches, Thailand boasts thrilling water sports, spectacular sight seeing, unspoilt and secluded spots which are safe too, lush vegetation as well as great fantastic shopping opportunities, delectable cuisines and myriad other activities to make your honey truly memorable. There is a great choice of airlines for flights to Bangkok and other Thailand cities.

Hawaii

The six islands of Hawaii are miles away from any main land and form a perfect honeymoon destination. A profusion of colours, snaking trails across the jagged peaks, dramatic volcanoes, picturesque landscapes, lush forests, picture perfect waterfalls and an awe-inspiring stretch of beaches are Hawaii’s key highlights. Although ranked amongst expensive destinations, you can find great deals if you book flights and hotels with agents who specialise in holidays to USA.

India

Kerala is one destination in India that has given many international honeymoon destinations a run for their business. The God’s own country as it is popularly called stuns its visitors with Kovallam beach that has reputation of being one of the finest in the world and draws honeymooners in droves on flights to India. A cruise on a luxurious house boat in the snaking back waters amidst verdant forests and tranquil surroundings is sure to make your honeymoon unforgettable.

South Africa

Kruger National Park, surprisingly for many, is home to a number of finest wedding and honeymoon venues wrapped in layers of lush and leafy vegetation. Kruger makes for a great and unique honeymoon escapade and is all about different shades of green, rivers, valleys and mountains, a rich flora and fauna and luxurious game lodges and romantic honeymoon suites at most venues. If you want to remain close to civilisation then pick Cape Town that enthrals with its host of romantic getaways for honeymoon couples. Flights to South Africa are cheap if booked in advance.

Australia

Sydney, one of the most liveable cities in the world is also a great place to embark upon your honeymoon. The city has many gems such as enchanting Sydney Harbour, the Harbour Bridge, the Opera house apart from immense natural grandeur that displays in its charming headlands, isolated bays and idyllic beaches of Bondi and Manly. Perth is a good choice for honeymooners for its most beautiful beaches, River Swan cruises and charming Fremantle and Rottnest Island. A number of flight and accommodation in these cities of Australia ensure a great choice for travellers.

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Johannesburg - the Liveliest & Most Dynamic City of South Africa

Popular Holiday Attractions in Johannesburg
(the Liveliest & Most Dynamic City of South Africa)

Johannesburg is one of the largest cities in the world that has off late emerged as one of the top tourist spots in the world which is apparent from the brimming flights to Johannesburg. It is an attractive city that features some top of the line hotels and restaurants, urbane bars and clubs and lustrous green parks. It is an enchanting city that never fails to impress visitors. Sun City at Johannesburg is an important landmark of the city.

It is the entertainment hub of the city and features a plethora of glitzy bars, gardens and restaurants. You can also let your hair down at any of the happening discos. Relieve you stress at the city’s world class spas. Experience bliss and feel the tension draining away from loosened up muscles and a relaxing mind.

And who can forget the African wildlife which is epitomised at the Johannesburg Zoo. The zoo is home to more than 2000 species of animals and some of them are as rare as the white lion or the albino. The Johannesburg Zoo is not just limited to the exhibition of wild animals; the zoo also dedicates itself towards their enrichment and husbandry.

The city of Johannesburg has some of the most interesting and appealing museums that portray the varied culture and the engrossing history of the city and the country. The audio-visual exhibition of Nelson Mandela’s treason trial at Museum Africa is as fascinating as the study of changing trends in fashion throughout the history at the Bernberg Fashion Museum. Catch flights to South Africa and set a foot in this city and loose yourself in the maze of natural wonders, scintillating nightlife and historical beauty.

Resource: Southalltravel.co.uk Travel Tips

Hurricane Earl Goes Bang Crash Smash

Hurricane Earl, which finally made its landfall in Nova Scotia on 4th September, was quite choosy in meting out punishment to the different areas it touched on its journey. On 2nd September, North Carolina came under the grip of torrential rains and intense winds. In Cape Hatteras, winds reached speeds of about 67 miles an hour. Numerous homes as well as roads were flooded and power supply played truant. However, Earl was somewhat benevolent with New England. Aside from small floods, New England remained largely untouched. The mid Atlantic states of Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey and Virginia escaped with low to medium impact. The coastline areas were lashed by tropical storms and huge waves, while it was only gales and outer rainbands for the Delmarva Peninsula.

Continuing its course, Earl hit ashore at around 11 am near Western Head, Nova Scotia. Winds blowing at nearly 75 miles per hour signalled the advent of Earl. Just offshore areas witnessed waves of up to 82 ft and winds of hurricane intensity. As far as the onshore areas were concerned, it was Atlantic Canada, which bore the worst of Earl. The reported rainfall in Quebec was approximately 48.2 mm, while in Edmunston, New Brunswick, rainfall was about 76.5 mm. The strongest winds onshore raged over Beaver Island at speeds of 84 miles an hour.

While floods, violent rains, and raging gales were all part and parcel of the hurricane, daily life was also left in shambles because of power outages. In fact, thousands of homes in Canada had to do without power supply for extended periods of time.

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Atlantis, the Palm – A byword for luxury

Atlantis, the Palm, Dubai is one of the largest man-made island resorts never fails to impress visitors with its size, scale and magnificence. Inaugurated in November 2008, with a multi-million dollar ceremony compeered by Kylie Minogue; the Atlantis is a US$1.5 billion joint venture between Kerzner International Holdings limited and Istithmar, an entity wholly-owned by the Dubai Government. Kerzner International Holdings Limited is one of the prominent real-estate developers in the Gulf and specializes in developing resorts, casinos and luxury hotels all across the world. After the stupendous success of its first venture in Palm Jumeirah, it now plans to extend the ‘Atlantis’ brand globally by developing similar such properties all across the globe.

For a unique holiday to Dubai, hotels do play an important role. Atlantis, the Palm is one of the most unique hotels in Dubai and tourists who come to spend their holidays here often choose the Atlantis for the astounding luxury that it offers. In terms of accommodation options, Atlantis is a class apart. Located on the man made Palm Jumeirha Island, the hotel is in close vicinity of the Emirates Mall and Dubai City Centre which are only 15 and 25 minutes drive respectively from the hotel.

Each of its 1,373 spacious guest rooms and 166 suites possess understated oceanic and Arabic influences and are complimented with delightfully appointed bathrooms, dining areas and in-room amenities. Add to this the spectacular views of the Arabian Gulf and you are in for an experience of a lifetime. With 17 restaurants, bars and lounges managed by world renowned chefs like Nobu, Giorgio Locatelli, Santi Santamaria and Michel Rostang; Atlantis offers a veritable culinary tour of the world.

Besides the famed Aquaventure theme park, the Atlantis also offers its patrons numerous luxury boutiques, shops, extensive meeting and convention facilities. The resort is also home to the famous Dolphin Bay where guests get to play and interact with dolphin’s first-hand. The Lost Chambers, a maze of underwater corridors and passageways is another important attraction of this resort that is considered as one of the largest open-air marine habitats in the world, with some 65,000 marine creatures in lagoons and displays.

The Atlantis Dive Centre offers a great opportunity for the scuba diving enthusiasts who can enjoy a range of activities under the waters including exploration of man-made reefs and the shipwrecks marooned off the coast. A dive trip to the magnificent Musandam is sure to enthral one and all. Quite interestingly there are diving courses that can be planned as per your holiday and even kids (above 8 years) can enjoy the experience with instructors and certified divers.

Keeping in mind the high demand for Atlantis, the Palm hotel, some Dubai specialist travel agents are offering great discounts on tour packages for Atlantis. The all inclusive deal which includes return flights can be grabbed for as low as £589 for 3 nights per person.

So why not treat yourself this time with a lot of luxury, thrill and adventure instead of booking the usual cheap hotels in Dubai. Atlantis experience is so addictive that we are sure it will have you back in Dubai soon.

Continental and United - Merger of the Titans

The US Justice Department (DOJ) has given the go ahead to the merger between United Airlines and Continental Airlines. The DOJ completed the overall review of the merger and addressed all antitrust concerns. This all-stock merger is worth around US$ 3 billion and spells as the creation of the biggest airline in the world. There are projections that by 2013, annual synergies would generate $1 billion to $1.2 billion. It includes $200 to $300 million from net annual cost synergies.

The merger would be in place once a vote is carried out by the shareholders. The expected date of this vote is 17th September, 2010. Once the vote is over, the US Transportation Department would have to approve it. The entire process is expected to be over by 1st October, 2010.

Everyone associated with Continental and United stands to get rich rewards from this merger. Passengers will get access to the number one frequent flyer programme of the industry. There would be an increased number of destinations and partners to enable passengers in earning and redeeming more and more miles. Not only will the features of the existing Mileage Plus and OnePass loyalty programmes of United and Continental be part of the new programme, but certain other attractive additions would be made as well.

Similarly employees and shareholders will also get many benefits. After all, the merger is going to result in the creation of a gigantic entity. Presently, Continental serves some 170 points globally and handles more than 2,700 departures. The company has about 40,000 employees. Similarly United, the founder of the Star Alliance, has a staff of nearly 46,000 and daily operates approximately 3,400 flights to more than 230 destinations. It is quite evident that the aviation industry is set to see a path breaking moment.

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The Juicy Big Apple Beckons and it is not Forbidden

New York remains the natural choice of millions of Britons planning to visit an exciting travel destination far far away from England. After all, the ‘Big Apple’ has an abundance of attractions to lure even the most jaded traveller. The sheer numbers of carriers operating flights to New York bears testimony to the popularity of this destination. Whether it is the myriad pleasures of glitzy and frenetic New York City or the laid back relaxation of upstate New York, the destination promises limitless exhilaration. Being the melting pot of numerous colourful ethnicities, New York is like a fabulous cultural smorgasbord.

Those with a passion for walking would do well to try out the pedestrian pathway on the Brooklyn Bridge overlooking the East River from a dizzying height of some 5,989 feet. Taking a ride to the Liberty Island and witnessing the glory of the Statue of Liberty remains an unforgettable memory. If you feel that you spent too much on those USA flights, then simply go on a tour of the humongous Central Park and lose yourself in a wonderful world of verdant parks, forests, and lakes.

Whatever you do, don’t forget to catch a performance at the legendary Lincoln Center for Performing Arts. Come up close to the looming Empire State Building and gaze out over the wonders of New York from the observation decks on the 86th and 102nd floors. The pulsating feeling of life at Times Square, the astounding theatrical performances on Broadway, and the priceless treasures in the Museum of Modern Art – buying air tickets to New York definitely ensure countless rare moments and lifelong memories.

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