Walk or cycle in the footsteps of heroes

 

With Anzac Day just around the corner, leading Australian travel provider UTracks is urging history buffs to consider walking, or cycling through the Western Front of World War I. 

The French region of the Somme and the northern region of Belgium known as Flanders are areas of natural beauty, flat lands with rich culinary traditions. 

Through this area runs the Western Front, a series of trenches built by the Germans in WWI stretching 700km from the Belgian coast to the Swiss border. 

Following the Western Front along quiet roads and bike paths, a journey can include a stop at Villers Bretonneux, where in April, 1918, the Australian Corps successfully stopped the advancing German troops. 

This is a region of open farmland and small villages, where history is remembered and Australian are still loved. There is an abundance of historical landmarks. 

The Somme was the site of one of the First World War’s largest and most destructive campaigns, continuing for more than four months, resulting in over one million casualties.

Today, the Somme is largely rural. Fields have long ago been replanted, roads follow former supply routes, and villages have been rebuilt following widespread destruction. 

The Villers-Bretonneux Australian National Memorial overlooks the surrounding fields and commemorates more than 10,000 Australian soldiers with no known grave, while the Thiepval Memorial to the Missing records over 72,000 missing British and South African servicemen who died in the Somme sector.

For those seeking to understand the region more fully, UTracks offers walking and cycling routes based out of Amiens for self-guided walking and cycling itineraries. 

Tours include pre-booked accommodation, luggage transfers and navigation support via a digital app. Routes connect major memorials with smaller villages and lesser known sites, allowing travellers to experience a broader cross section of the landscape beyond the primary monuments.

See https://www.utracks.com/France/Self-Guided-Walking/Western-Front-Walk-Amiens-to-Arras or 
https://www.utracks.com/France/Self-Guided-Cycling/Cycle-the-Western-Front

Images: Supplied 

World Cup fans should prepare to be gouged in the US

Heading for the FIFA World Cup in the US, Canada and Mexico? 

Be prepared to be ripped off by the rapacious capitalists in the US. 

Not only are tickets to matches absurdly expensive and hotels charging obscene sums for rooms, but you can also expect to be gouged on local transport costs. 

Take New Jersey’s NJ Transit - which is reportedly planning to charge more than $100 for return rail tickets from New York’s Pennsylvania Station to MetLife Stadium (above) for World Cup games, the New York Times reported this week.

That's a seven-fold increase over the the regular price. 

The 30km rail journey ordinarily costs $12.90 for a return ticket. The new "special event" pricing will reportedly not even feature concessions for seniors, children and disabled passengers. 

The World Cup host committee for New York City/New Jersey declined to comment to the newspaper, with the transportation plans expected to go live in the coming week.

A spokesperson for NJ Transit did say: “The ticket prices for match day travel have not been finalised and any reference to cost would be unconfirmed speculation.”

Democratic senator from New York Chuck Schumer has accused FIFA of a “shakedown” of US host cities . 

“FIFA is set to reap nearly $11 billion from this summer’s World Cup, yet New York area commuters and residents are being handed the bill,” said Schumer.

“NJ Transit may be forced to charge fans an eye-popping $100-plus for a train ride that normally costs $13, because FIFA’s hosting agreement dumps added transportation and security costs onto states and cities while FIFA keeps the revenue from tickets, broadcasting, and concessions."

No one was smart enough to realise this when agreements were signed with FIFA.

In a news conference on Monday, Governor Mikie Sherrill of New Jersey said that since she took office early this year, she has sought to reduce the burden of World Cup costs away from taxpayers in her state. 

So the football fans must pay up.

“One of the key things I wanted to make sure is that we are not going to be paying for moving the people who are viewing the World Cup on the back of New Jersey taxpayers and New Jersey commuters," she said. "And so we worked together closely to make sure that that cost will not be borne by New Jerseyans.”

Massachusetts MBTA, meanwhile, is planning to raise its pricing for travel from Boston to Foxboro’s Gillette Stadium up from $20 return for an NFL game to more than $75 for World Cup matches. 

The US loves a gouge, in stark contrast to previous host nations. 

 During the 2022 men’s World Cup in Qatar, official ticket-holders received free access to Doha’s metro system throughout the tournament. Similarly, at the 2024 European Championship in Germany, match ticket holders also had access to free public transport on game day in host cities.

Hospitality? Meet a hotel that prefers tech to the human touch

Ever feel you are being gently fed bulldust?

That’s how I felt when I read a story on the HM (Hotel Management) website - a hospitality industry site.

“The guest experience in the local Fiji hospitality market will be elevated following the rollout of the nation’s first self-service check-in and check-out kiosk.”

Elevated? 

So someone thinks avoiding any human contact when checking in and out of a hotel in a tourism hotspot. And in a country noted for its slow lifestyle and friendliness.

Holiday Inn Suva has introduced an optional self-service kiosk station, in a bid to allow faster and more streamlined processes, particularly during peak periods.

Let me translate that for you: “We don’t have/or want to have enough trained staff to cater adequately for our guests when we are busy.”

I love contact with hotel reception staff. They can often tip you off about a great new bar around the corner, or a terrific spot to try a local delicacy at the nearby market. Or help you if you'd like to change your allocated room, or request an early check-in.  

But IHG doesn’t agree. It is putting its faith in technology. Which would make sense at quiet overnight times, but not, for me, at peak periods.   

HM reports: The self-service kiosk operates on a cashless basis and accepts local and international credit cards, with the introduction reflecting a broader change in traveller behaviour seeking convenience and choice, according to the hotel group.

“Across IHG Hotels and Resorts, we are focused on introducing technology that responds to how guests travel today, while reinforcing the importance of human connection at every stage of the stay,” says regional general manager, Fiji and Pacific, for IHG Hotels and Resorts, Lachlan Walker. 

“The introduction of a self‑service kiosk at Holiday Inn Suva reflects this approach. Led by Akshay Chand in collaboration with the hotel team, the project demonstrates how practical innovation can enhance flexibility and efficiency for guests, while enabling our colleagues to focus more time on delivering meaningful and personalised hospitality.”

Holiday Inn Suva general manager Mohammed Feroz said the introduction reflects both changing guest expectations and the brand’s long‑standing focus on ease and reliability.

“Holiday Inn has always been about making travel feel straightforward, welcoming and dependable for our guests. As travel habits continue to evolve, guests increasingly value speed and choice, particularly at arrival and departure. The new self‑service kiosk allows us to respond to those expectations, while staying true to the Holiday Inn promise of friendly, approachable service delivered by our team.”

Hmm. Just wait until the tech breaks down - a la those frequently malfunctioning airport machines that are supposed to "streamline" the arrivals process. 

Singapore Airlines has a treat for football lovers

Love your football? Flying during the World Cup later this year?

Singapore Airlines (SIA) says it has you covered.

Customers will be able to enjoy the action from the FIFA World Cup 2026 from June 11 to July 19 with the airline showing the matches live via Sport 24 on its KrisWorld Live TV system.

Football fans will be able to watch all the action in real time.

"Bringing the excitement of the FIFA World Cup on board keeps our customers connected to one of the world’s biggest sporting events at 30,000 feet," says Yeoh Phee Teik, senior vice president for customer experience at Singapore Airlines. .

"These live football matches complement our KrisWorld line-up, and reflect our commitment to continuously enhance the Singapore Airlines in-flight experience and offerings."

KrisWorld Live TV keeps customers connected to major global sporting events via Sport 24, as well as news and business updates via BBC News.

It is available on all SIA Boeing 787-10 and Boeing 737-8 aircraft, as well as 41 Airbus A350-900 and eight Boeing 777-300ER aircraft. 

Live broadcasts are, however, subject to satellite coverage, broadcaster arrangements, and regulatory approvals on selected routes.

Qantas and Jetstar to cut domestic flights

If you have a domestic booking with Qantas or Jetstar then you might want to check the flight still exists. 

The Qantas Group today announced that in light of continued volatility in fuel prices and global economic conditions, its will reduce domestic flight frequencies by around 5%. 

Regional destinations will be among those affected, including Mount Gambier in South Australia. 

The airline said in a media release that higher international airfares would only partly offset soaring fuel costs, expected to be between $3.1 billion and $3.3 billion in the six months to June 30. 

The carrier said in a market update that affected Qantas and Jetstar customers will be contacted directly and offered either alternative flights or a refund.

Qantas Group added that it is closely monitoring the dynamic environment and retains the option to take further actions to mitigate fuel cost increases across the business over time.

The news follows the Australian flag carrier's decision last week to redeploy capacity from the US and its domestic network to increase flights to Europe.

"Qantas continues to see strong demand for international travel to Europe as customers seek alternative routes," it said. "In response, the Group has redeployed capacity from the US and its domestic network to increase flights to Paris and Rome."

Qantas increased airfares last month to mitigate against the spiralling cost of jet fuel.

Qantas’ fuel bill is forecast to be higher in its second half by between $600 million and $800 million. 

"Since the Group provided outlook guidance at its 1H26 financial results, jet fuel prices have more than doubled and remain highly volatile," the airline media release said. 

"The Group is working closely with the government and jet fuel suppliers who continue to provide confidence in fuel supply for the remainder of April and well into May. We are closely monitoring the situation given the ongoing uncertainty in global fuel supply chains.

"In light of the ongoing volatility, the Group will provide an update on the FY27 outlook at a later date."

Image: Qantas

Hotels go all out for Mother's Day

Mother's Day is just around the corner and it can pay to book early for some of the best experiences.

Sofitel and MGallery Collection hotels across Australia are inviting families to celebrate the women in their lives on May 10, with offerings ranging from sparkling high teas and leisurely lunches to overnight escapes.

SOFITEL HOTELS

Sofitel's Mother's Day experiences aim to reflect the brand's signature French zest, combining elegant dining and high tea traditions. 

Culinary Experiences

Sofitel Melbourne On Collins – No35 Restaurant Mother's Day Lunch
From $135 per person
Guests can celebrate with a refined share-style three or four-course menu paired with French sparkling wine, while enjoying panoramic views across Melbourne's skyline. .

https://www.sofitel-melbourne.com.au

Sofitel Brisbane Central – Bistro Suzette Mother's Day Lunch
$145 per person
A long lunch at Bistro Suzette is designed for sharing. Begin with a seafood platter featuring Moreton Bay bugs, Hervey Bay scallops, Mooloolaba king prawns and freshly shucked oysters. Then gather around the table for indulgent mains and finish with a trip to the dessert station. Mums will also be invited to mix and match their own favourite flowers into a bouquet to take home.

https://www.sevenrooms.com/experiences/suzette/mothers-day-2026-6188554382524416

Sofitel Sydney Wentworth – Tilda Mother's Day Feast
$85 per person
Indulge at Tilda on Mother's Day with a special three-course menu including nine dishes to choose from. Built on seasonal ingredients with dishes like Wagyu Tartare, dry-aged duck breast, charcoal roasted cod, yellowfin tuna and salted dark chocolate mousse.

https://www.tildasydney.com

High Tea Experience

Sofitel Melbourne On Collins – Sofi's Lounge High Tea
From $110 per person
High tea at Sofi's Lounge includes free-flowing sparkling wine and unlimited tea and barista coffee. Menu highlights include Wagyu beef brisket, rocket and horseradish wraps, cucumber and chive cream cheese on rye, Tasmanian smoked salmon (hopefully not farmed salmon), black pepper, dill and lemon cream smørrebrød, mini quiches and pies, and sweet treats including chocolate & cherry tartlet, madeleines, rose and strawberry pannacotta with macerated strawberries and freshly baked plain and fruit scones along with a chocolate fountain.

https://www.sofitel-melbourne.com.au

 
Accommodation Experience

Sofitel Melbourne On Collins – Little Luxuries, Big Memories
From $1,420 for two nights
Families can enjoy a prestige suite stay including breakfast, children's amenities and thoughtful in-room experiences.

https://www.sofitel-melbourne.com.au

MGALLERY COLLECTION HOTELS

Culinary Experience

Elysium Noosa – Cibaria Mother's Day Long Lunch
$159 per person

Cibaria Noosa chefs have designed a four-course set menu for the table for lunch, featuring a selection of their most-loved dishes. It includes garlic and rosemary pizzetta, buffalo mozzarella, yellowfin tuna, spaghetti aglio with grilled king prawns and Amalfi lemon; Wagyu striploin along with sides to share and dessert of mille foglie, a layered puff pastry with Chantilly cream and mixed berries.

https://www.cibarianoosa.au/whats-on/mothers-day-at-cibaria-9ax6e-dfhyn-edz4t

High Tea Experiences

Fairmont Resort Blue Mountains – Mother's Day High Tea Brunch
From $89 per person

A high tea buffet brunch featuring sparkling wine, live music and Jamison Valley views. All mums will receive a special gift on the day. The brunch will feature a bread station, charcuterie, high tea sandwiches, savoury delights including lobster rolls, salads, a hot station and a spread of desserts.

https://www.fairmontresort.com.au/offers/mothers-day-brunch/

The William Inglis Hotel – Mother's Day High Tea
$79 per person
Hosted in the Garden Pavilion, mum will be welcomed by a glass of sparkling on arrival and enjoy a selection of hand-crafted desserts, freshly baked scones, and finger sandwiches.

https://www.williaminglis.com.au

Accommodation Experience

The Porter House Hotel Sydney – The Signature Sanctuary
Starting from $669 per night

This package includes accommodation in a junior suite, chilled Champagne on arrival, hand-made chocolates and a long soak with a LUSH bath bomb. After a restful sleep, Mum will enjoy an a la carte breakfast in bed plus a late check-out.

https://porterhousehotel.com.au/offers/the-signature-sanctuary/