20 years of Room4Dessert: superstar chef living the sweet life in Bali

Twenty years is a lifetime in the world of restaurants. 

For one to last 20 years - over two very different locations - is a major feat. 

Room4Dessert, the culinary love child of word-renowned pastry chef Will Goldfarb, has just marked 20 years of quirkiness, chaos and excellence in its second location in Ubud, Bali. 

Born in New York, the second iteration of Room4Dessert is not only a survivor, it is challenging, fun and home of some really interesting drinks, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic.

Having started life as a late-night dessert bar in New York City, Room4Dessert has metamorphised into a dessert-focused eatery, boutique accommodation, regenerative farm, and culinary academy. 

It might not be to everyone's taste, but it is a "must visit" on the list of every foodie visiting Bali. 

Goldfarb, described as a "pastry provocateur and flavour philosopher", has guided his Bali eatery for 11 years after nine in the Big Apple. 

The 15-course main event is lauded as "edible storytelling, botanical mischief, and joyful rebellion".

The signature menu has been named Fight Club and is described by Goldfarb as "Three decades worth of stories told through the plates we create". 

Start with five inventive savoury dishes in one space; move to a room overlooking the kitchen for five desserts, and then finish in the garden next to a fire fit for a quintet of petit fours. 

From savoury curveballs to sweet sensations, every mouthful is unexpected, with a nod to Goldfarb's career, which includes a stint at El Bulli, being named World’s Best Pastry Chef in 2021 and starring on Netflix series Chef’s Table.  

The dishes are served to an eclectic soundtrack that veers from Sinatra to the Beastie Boys.

We opted for no alcohol pairings: mocktails with attitude like curry spritzes, a coco colada minus the rum and an Open Sesame without the bourbon. Invigorating selections.    

Here’s a taste of what the menu might feature: 

Lak Lak is a riff on the Balinese street snack, topped with whipped coconut yoghurt and trout roe. 

Or Raspberry HK, which features local raspberries with black sesame ice cream, sesame nougatine, and black tea milk sauce. 

Or the eccentric Fries // Shake: Klungkung-style sweet potato fries from chef Dewi’s garden, served with cashew aioli and kluwak mole. 

"No waste. No pretence. No rules. Just flavour - at its most fearless," says Goldfarb 

The Room4Dessert collection includes:

● Room4Dessert, the flagship tasting experience.

● Shelter Island, a boutique guesthouse wrapped in coconut trees and quiet magic.

● Powder Room, a local candy store for grown-ups, with natural wine and sweet treats.

● The Forest, a regenerative playground for ingredients, ideas, and education.

● Academy: pastry boot camps for the next generation of sweet thinkers.

“We don’t just serve food - we share stories," says Goldfarb. 

"We grow more than ingredients here. We grow ideas. We grow people. And if we’ve done it right, you leave a little more connected to the land, to yourself, and to each other. Sometimes, we even grow dessert.

"This isn’t a retrospective - it’s a continuation. A quiet celebration of showing up, staying curious, and sharing what’s been learned along the way." 

The 15-course extravaganza is thrilling, confronting and tiring. It's not something you'd want to do every week - but it is certainly something you'll want to do if you find yourself in Ubud. 

A tasting with natural wines is IDR 1,890,000 ($177) per person
A tasting with spirits is IDR 1,540,000 per person
A spiritless tasting is IDR 1,290,000 per person
An unpaired tasting is IDR 1,090,000 per person
*Prices do not include 21% government tax and service charge and it pays to book well in advance.

See www.room4dessert.com. Jl. Raya Sanggingan, Kedewatan, Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80561. 

# The writer was hosted by Room4Dessert 

French air traffic controllers flag strike action

Peak holiday season is approaching in France. 

So, just as predictably as night follows day, are strike warnings.

French air traffic controllers are threatening to strike as the summer season starts for millions across Europe, Euronews and Travel Mole report.

The UNSA-ICNA union - the second-largest union for air traffic controllers in France - has filed a strike motion for the July 3 and 4, citing “toxic” and “authoritarian” management as one of the reasons for the walkout.

The union is calling for increased staffing levels and a pay rise, which have been denied by the French Civil Aviation Authority (DGAC).

The third-largest ATC union, USAC-CGT, also issued a strike notice this week for July 3 but the largest union representing French air traffic controllers, SNCTA, has indicated that it isn’t calling for a strike.

The union has also criticised the DGAC for ” failing to modernise the tools that are essential for air traffic controllers, even though it keeps promising that all means are being put in place.”

The union cites repeated major breakdowns despite “weeks of repeated alerts.”

The DGAC has said it “deeply” regrets the choice of dates. The air traffic controllers strike dates correspond to the busiest days of the year, due to the numerous departures for vacations during this period.

In a statement, the DGAC acknowledge “the difficulties related to the situation of chronic understaffing,” which “affect the quality of the service provided to airlines.”

In France, air traffic controllers must submit a strike notice at least five days in advance. This is in accordance with the 1984 law governing the right to strike in the public service.

So it looks like two days of cancellations and delays later this week.

UPDATE: Budget airline Ryanair alone says it has been forced to cancel at least 170 flights due to the action which started on Friday.   

Norway to impose new tax on tourists

Norway is set to combat the scourge of over-tourism by imposing a new tax on overseas visitors.

From the dramatic fjords of the west coast to the Arctic majesty of the northern lights, Norway's beauty has long captivated visitors.

In 2024, Norway recorded 6.20 million international tourist arrivals but authorities expect to receive approximately 6.28 million international tourist arrivals in 2025, news hub Travel Mole reports.

Europe represents 80% of all arrivals with leading inbound markets being Germany, Sweden, the Netherlands, Denmark and the UK.

But with tourism numbers climbing steadily, the country is preparing to introduce a tourist tax starting in summer 2026.

The purpose of the tax is "to help safeguard its natural treasures and alleviate strain on local infrastructure".

Under newly approved legislation, select municipalities can impose a 3% fee on overnight stays.

The fee will appear on hotel bills and of short-term rentals such as Airbnb. Cruise passengers will also be subject to the fee, but campsites and marinas will be exempt.

The move comes after Norway’s parliament rejected a proposal for a nationwide hotel tax.

It instead opted for a targeted, locally applied measure. Municipalities wishing to implement the tax must demonstrate that tourism is putting significant pressure on public facilities. They are also required to submit detailed plans on how the funds will be used, subject to review by the government.

The first cities expected to adopt the measure include Bergen, Tromsø, and possibly Oslo. Popular sites like the Geirangerfjord (above) - a UNESCO World Heritage site - and the Lofoten Islands are also likely candidates.

Tourism-related services will be the exclusive users of the fee revenue. It would include trail maintenance, public toilets, waste management, and visitor information systems.

Local governments will also have the flexibility to adjust the tax seasonally.

“We’re pleased the government avoided a blanket hotel tax,” said Kristin Krohn Devold, CEO of the Norwegian Hospitality Association.

“This approach allows for targeted action where it’s truly needed. Our goal is for this tax to remain the exception, not the rule.”

A formal review of the legislation will happen three years after its implementation, allowing adjustments based on its impact and effectiveness.

Dual pricing in Thailand favours Thai nationals over visitors

Thailand's tourism sector continues to slump as foreign visitor numbers slide - but the government has opted to focus on boosting domestic travel, our Thai correspondent reports.

From January 1 to June 22, there was a 4.24% drop in arrivals compared to the same time last year, the Ministry of Tourism and Sports reported.

And, bizarrely, blame is still being cast on the Covid-19 pandemic. 

The National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) has revised its forecast for the year, now predicting 37 million foreign tourists this year, falling short of the nearly 40 million record set in 2019.

But Thailand has just launched a campaign to spark domestic tourism: the Half-Half Thailand Travel initiative for Thais only.

Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong unveiled the program this week, saying it aims to revive the tourism industry during the low season and aid "post-pandemic recovery".

The scheme will subsidise travel expenses and accommodation for locals. 

The government will cover up to 50% of accommodation costs. In primary cities, they'll subsidise 40%, while in secondary cities, they’ll cover 50% during weekdays and 40% on weekends and holidays.

Participants can accommodation for up to five nights using digital coupons, which are also redeemable at participating restaurants, shops, and tourist locations with subsidies capped at 3,000 baht per night ($138).

The government says the initiative is set to energise domestic travel and distribute economic benefits across Thailand, focusing particularly on secondary cities, while providing a significant boost to local tourism businesses.

In another Thai-only scheme, from September 30, Bangkok commuters can enjoy a 20 baht (under $1) flat fare on all eight electric train lines, including those in surrounding areas. This initiative aims to make public transport more accessible and ease city congestion.

But passengers must register through the Tang Rat mobile app to benefit - and complete the registration process to verify their Thai nationality. 

Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit announced that the project is on track. "The 20 baht fare cap is a public benefit, and we are ensuring everything is ready for a smooth launch," he said.

There is no mechanism for visitors to benefit, AseanNow.com reports, in contradiction to the aim of boosting overseas numbers 

North Korea opens massive tourism resort complex

North Korea has opened a new beach resort town that will welcome visitors from next week, CNN and news hub Travel Mole reported.

Wonsan-Kalma will initially be only for domestic tourists and is located in the home town of North Korea leader Kim Jong Un.

Kim Jong Un personally cut the ribbon of a new resort on the east coast, hailed by state media as a “national treasure-level tourism city” - a seaside development set against what human rights observers describe "as stark realities of hunger and hardship" across North Korea.

The country’s official KCNA news service reported Kim opened the sprawling beachside resort, which features water parks, high-rise hotels, and accommodations for nearly 20,000 guests.

The agency reported "the tourists from home and abroad can choose where [any one] to stay according to their tastes. The tourist area has sea-bathing service facilities and various sports, amusement, commercial and public catering facilities".

 

The launch was a remarkable display of extravagance in what is one of the world’s most reclusive nations.

KCNA reported “service for domestic guests will begin on July 1 in the Wonsan-Kalma Coastal Tourist Zone" but gave no details on eligibility or transportation.

The Kalma beach resort is next to an international airport, which could indicate the project is ultimately aimed at attracting foreign currency through tourism, although international attendance at the ribbon-cutting was limited to the Russian ambassador and staff.

Last year, small groups of Russian tourists visited North Korea for three-day ski holidays at Maskiryong resort, but these, like all tourist experiences in North Korea, were reported as being heavily monitored and controlled by the government.

“I was hoping this might signal a broader reopening to international tourism, but unfortunately, that doesn’t seem to be the case for now,” said Rowan Beard, the co-founder of Young Pioneer Tours, which has hosted group visits to North Korea.

Images: Opening ceremony. KCNA

Airlines may be forced to allow two free cabin baggage items

The European Union is set to increase the pressure on budget airlines that impose charges for hand-held carry on bags.

  
The EU is acting again airlines’ ‘unjustified extra costs’ by tentatively adopting a proposal which will allow air travellers to bring two pieces of baggage into the cabin for free, news hub Travel Mole reports.

The proposal would see passengers allowed a handbag or small backpack, as well as conventional hand luggage of up to 7kg at no cost.

Several low-fare airlines allow only one small item for free and charge for any extra luggage.

Trade group Airlines for Europe (A4E) is, predictably, opposing the move. 

It says it will lead to higher prices for all, including customers who choose to travel light.

“Forcing a mandatory trolley bag obliges passengers to pay for services they may not want or need,” said A4E managing director Ourania Georgoutsakou.

The proposal, if passed, would apply to all flights to and from the 27 nations that make up the European Union.

It was an amendment adopted as part of a wider air passenger rights charter proposed by the European Commission and will be up for a future EU vote.

Image: Walter Pucher, Scop.io 

Fancy a Sunday session on the Hobart waterfront?

Hobart continues to embrace winter with luxury waterfront hotel MACq 01 Hotel warming things up with its new Sunday sessions: Sundays @ The Story Bar.

On the edge of the River Derwent, The Deck offers a front-row seat for golden-hour gatherings, with glowing fire pots, live local music from 4-7pm, and sweeping views as the sun sinks behind kunanyi/Mount Wellington.

Locals and visitors can gather and sip on The Story Bar’s signature cocktails, inspired by the legendary characters featured behind MACq 01’s 114 hotel room doors and graze on a tailored Sunday menu of casual bites designed for late afternoon lounging.

There will be a rotating line-up of local Tasmanian acoustic musicians, including Joel Hopson and Tony Mak, providing entertainment for Sundays @ The Story Bar.

Entry is free for all - but they'll probably expect you to buy a drink.

See https://www.macq01.com.au/eat-and-drink/

Is this the world's most sustainable tourism destination?

The Danish capital of Copenhagen has become an exemplar of sustainable city tourism.

Copenhagen has in total 397km of bicycle paths, a fleet of electric harbour ferries and a majority of the hotel rooms around town are eco-certified.

And you can loan a kayak for free if you will pick up some rubbish on journey journey.

Last year, the city launched a program named CopenPay. It is a pilot program where conscious actions became a currency, allowing visitors to earn free cultural experiences.

The program exceeded all expectations. During the initial four-week run, bike rentals increased by 29%, tonnes of litter were collected, and 98% of participants said they would recommend the initiative.

As a result, CopenPay is back again in 2025. The program more than tripled in size with 100 participating attractions across Copenhagen.

They include the National Museum, Kronborg Castle in Elsinore, the National Gallery of Denmark, GoBoat, Copenhill, the Urban Garden, and Donkey Republic bike rentals. The program will run through summer until August 17.

“By integrating more conscious actions into the visitor experience, CopenPay is redefining how we in Copenhagen approach tourism," says said Søren Tegen Pedersen, CEO of Wonderful Copenhagen.

"Rather than bringing more tourists to the city, the goal with CopenPay is to nudge our visitors and raise their awareness about the choices we make, when we travel - exploring Copenhagen more consciously while being rewarded with unique experiences.”

This year, CopenPay will reward visitors who arrive in Copenhagen by train with perks such as free bike rentals, yoga sessions, guided tours, or discounted entry to some of the city’s top attractions.

Passengers who purchase SAF (Sustainable Aviation Fuel) for their flight or come by electric car are also eligible for these rewards.

Once tourists are in the city, CopenPay also urges them to stay longer and thereby altogether travel less - by rewarding longer stays.

“The biggest climate impact from tourism comes from transportation." Pedersen adds.

"So, this year, we encourage travellers to take the train to Copenhagen. Furthermore, we want visitors to travel less but stay longer. We then reward visitors who stay four days or more by offering benefits like free bike rentals or a vegetarian meal.”

He added that the initiative aligns with Copenhagen’s ambition to become number one on the global index of most sustainable urban destinations.

“Tourism must move from being an environmental burden to a force for positive change.

"With Copenpay, we aim to raise travellers’ awareness about choices and impact. At the same time, we provide our visitors with an easy and locally based way to contribute to our city. And hopefully, they will leave inspired - both for when they return home and on their next travel.”

The Copenhagen harbour has 10 public bathing zones, while GreenKayak (above) works to reduce the amount of garbage floating in coastal waters.

The idea is simple - get a free GreenKayak trip in return for collecting trash and sharing this on social media.

Other green initiatives in Copenhagen include offshore wind turbines in the Øresund Strait between Denmark and Sweden, an increasing number of electric busses, waste-removing initiatives and ‘green wave’ traffic lights for cyclists.

See https://www.wonderfulcopenhagen.com/ and https://www.visitcopenhagen.com/

Images: Sankt Thomas Plaza and Green Kayak, Astrid Rasmussen/Daniel Rasmussen 

Coonawarra vignerons to raid their cellars for back vintages

Coonawarra vignerons will be scouring their cellars for older gems when the annual Cellar Dwellers festival returns next month. 

Coonawarra’s wineries are inviting wine lovers to discover treasures from their cellars with back vintage drops and special museum-release wines on offer for tasting during the July event. 

Among the activities to feature this years are themed wine trails, winemaker brunches, lunches and dinners, daily slow-cooked food pairings, behind-the-scenes winery tours, and intimate fireside tastings.

“Cellar Dwellers offers something truly special - you’re not just tasting wine, you’re experiencing the history and heart of Coonawarra," says Heidi Guyett, events and marketing officer for Coonawarra Vignerons. 

"Whether it’s sipping a beautifully aged vintage rarely seen outside the region, sharing a meal with the winemaker who crafted it, or enjoying a relaxed afternoon by the fire with a glass in hand, each event offers a genuine connection to the place and the people behind the wines. 

" It’s a chance to slow down, savour the stories in every bottle, and discover what makes Coonawarra so unique. Whether you're a seasoned wine lover or just starting your journey, there's something here for everyone.  

“The cornerstone of the event is the opportunity to taste treasured back-vintage wines from our 
cellar doors, offering a rare chance to compare them with current releases. It’s all designed to showcase the depth and warmth of our region - one sip and one story at a time.”

The Cellar Dwellers Back Vintage Tasting Showcase will be held on Friday, July 18, bringing together up to 15 Coonawarra producers to showcase their older wines.

“It’s a special evening where wine lovers can taste up to 30 aged wines from a collective of Coonawarra producers -all under one roof, for one night only," says Guyett. 

"This walk-around tasting is a rare chance to explore the evolution of both red and white varieties, from riesling and chardonnay to merlot, shiraz and, of course, our iconic cabernet sauvignon." 

A full list of the wines being showcased is available on the coonawarra.org website.

For those wanting to make a night of it, Guyett recommends rounding out the experience with dinner at the award-winning Pipers of Penola. 

Full event details here: https://coonawarra.org/cellar-dwellers-july-2025/

Image: Tasting at Zema Estate

Hobart gets a new destination for whisky lovers

It's all change on the Hobart waterfront with award-winning Callington Mill Distillery setting up shop in the Macq01 building. 

The new lunch, dinner, and late-night-drinks destination seats 190 across two indoor spaces and a harbourside deck.

Callington Mill's Macq01 venue will be Monday-Sunday, offering whisky experiences all week long and into the night!

The Oatlands-based distillery has taken over the space that was formerly the Frogmore Creek Lounge and as of June 26 will offer Tasmanian whiskies, personalised bottles, and dining experiences to the heart of Hobart.

Guests can expect a line-up of Callington Mill whiskies and the drinks list will also feature wines from Frogmore Creek, beers, and a diverse range of cocktails, thoughtfully inspired by Callington Mill’s award-winning whisky and gin range (Poltergeist Gin).

 “I met Frogmore Creek’s CEO James [Skabo] over a dinner where he mentioned that they were looking for someone to take over their decade-long lease," says Callington Mill founder John Ibrahim. 

"We have a similar vision and ambition to put Tasmania on the map for wine and whisky lovers alike, so our goals aligned and we got to chatting about a heartfelt handover of Frogmore's iconic lounge.”

Whisky-curious drinkers can book the ‘Serendipity Experience’ - named after the subterranean room at the Oatlands distillery - where they can l taste, learn, create, and depart with a personalised signature bottle.

Callington Mill’s new Macq01 venue will continue the distillery’s commitment to Tasmanian produce and community, with all ingredients sourced from local growers and makers. 

The move aligns with the brand’s broader focus on sustainability and eco-agriculture, which has underpinned operations at its Oatlands home.

The Macq01 venue is located at 18 Hunter Street, Tasmania. Bookings can be made at callingtonmilldistillery.com, or by calling 0482 509 019 for venue bookings.

Family story behind a stellar Coonawarra cabernet

There is a poignant story behind the outstanding Silent Partner Cabernet Sauvignon releases from Brand and Sons/Jim Brand Wines.

The label's founder, leading Coonawarra winemaker Jim Brand, died 20 years ago at the age of just 52, but his wine philosophies still guide his son Sam Brand and team's direction.

"The Silent Partner is a reference to Dad's on-going influence on everything that we do," says Sam Brand.

The Brand family sent me a vertical of the Silent Partner; from the smooth 2013 to the pre-release 2023, and there was a common thread of class and elegance throughout the wines, although the recently bottled 2023 was still a little feisty.

The 2013, 2020, 2021 and 2022 all offer outstanding examples of Coonawarra cabernet quality at a very fair price of $40.

The wines are made in small quantities but are well worth seeking out.

The first vintage was made as a tribute to Jim Brand in 2005.

"All of the fruit comes from our ‘Yates’ vineyard in what we call the ‘Mid-West’ of Coonawarra on a combination of Red Terra Rossa and Brown Redzina soils," says Sam Brand.

"Our winemaker Peter Weinberg spent six years under Dad’s tutelage at Brands Laira and knows well the techniques and style he preferred.

"Oak regime involves predominantly French oak, but only 20-30% new."

That oak is often from cooper Seguin Moreau, whose barrels were a favourite of Jim Brand (below).

"Producing the quintessential Coonawarra cabernet was always the goal," Sam Brand adds "with a wine style that had full flavour, density, recognisable regionality, but importantly that you could have a second glass of."

That's a key element these days, with big, American-oaked reds often so big that one glass is enough. Here there is power, but also impressive balance - and classic Coonawarra characters shine.

The pricing has remained at $40 per bottle for well over a decade - making the Silent Partner outstanding value for money.

The current vintage is 2021 - it is a very complete wine, and my favourite, along with the soon-to-be released 2022, one to look forward to.

See https://brandandsons.com.au/jim-brand/

Jansz offers a sparkling winter experience

Jansz Tasmania is encouraging wine lovers to embrace the stillness and the chill of Tasmania’s Off Season with a luxe new wine room experience: "Winter With Jansz Tasmania".

OK, it is not the catchiest name, but the indulgent package for two celebrates the pleasures of winter, Tasmanian-style, as part of Tourism Tasmania's campaign. 

Wine lovers are invited to the Jansz Tasmania Wine Room in the heart of the Pipers River wine region to watch the weather roll in across the vineyards and lake. 

The Winter With Jansz Tasmania experience includes:

* 2 x Ultimate Tasting Flights

* A shared lunch platter featuring locally sourced Tasmanian produce

* A Jansz Tasmania wine bottle stopper

* 1 x bottle of your choice: Vintage Cuvée or Vintage Rosé

* A Tasmanian-made woollen beanie or scarf

The cost is $180 for two. 

“Winter is a time when Tasmania reveals its true character; wild, beautiful and wonderfully quiet,” says Daniel Kavanagh, Jansz Tasmania’s new Wine Room manager.

“Our Off Season experience is about slowing down, soaking it all in, and discovering the warmth that sparkling wine and good company can bring to even the coldest day.”

Bookings are essential and can be made via jansz.com.au. The experience is available Thursdays to Mondays during winter. 

Airalo makes staying in touch overseas easier than ever

Remember the old days when you used to brace for massive overseas roaming charges each time you travelled overseas?

Then came the trend of installing a new local SIM card into your mobile device every time you switched countries.

Now, eSIMs are the way to go - a few clicks on your phone and an eSIM is installed for your destination. Land, click and you are away, at a cost of just a couple of dollars a day.

Running out of data? Easy. A couple more clicks, a couple more bucks, and stay in touch.

I tested out the Airalo eSIM on a 10-day trip to Bali - including some remote locations - earlier this month. I was impressed both with the ease of signing up, and the ability to stay connected in places where I had no wifi access.

Airalo, founded in 2019, came highly recommended by a couple of travel writing colleagues and its PR operative helped set me up on the service. I'm an instant convert

Airalo, which promotes itself as the world’s leading eSIM provider, celebrated a major milestone recently: 20 million users have embraced its fully digital eSIM technology.

The outdated, traditional SIM card industry relies on a plastic-heavy, high-emission supply chain, producing billions of single-use SIMs each year - equivalent to 20,000 tonnes of plastic.

An eSIM emits 46% less CO2 throughout its product lifecycle than a single SIM card.

By eliminating the need for physical SIM cards, Airalo's eSIM technology is helping to reduce the telecom industry's environmental footprint at scale, while offering a more efficient and eco-friendly way to stay connected.

“Reaching 20 million users is more than a business milestone - it’s a clear signal that the world is ready for a more sustainable way to stay connected,” said Ahmet Bahadir Ozdemir, co-founder and Chief Executive Officer at Airalo.

“Every eSIM activation represents less plastic waste, fewer carbon emissions, and a step toward a greener planet." 

Unlike traditional SIM cards, which require swapping and often get lost or discarded, eSIMs are fully digital and easily manageable through your own device.

This flexibility allows travellers to switch between eSIM plans and countries effortlessly, without worrying about physical cards or compatibility issues.

Current offers include unlimited data for 10 days in 42 countries in Europe with Airalo Eurolink for $58.50.

To learn more visit www.airalo.com.

Travel agents offer crucial advice to flyers

Do you have a flight booked to Europe via the Middle East? 

With escalating tensions impacting global aviation routes, the Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA) is advising Australian travellers to remain informed and not to cancel their flights.

Airspace closures over Iran, Israel and Russia have significantly narrowed flight corridors into Europe, with delays and route diversions common particularly for passengers transiting through Middle Eastern hubs such as Doha, Abu Dhabi and Dubai. 

Major carriers continue to operate with adjusted flight paths, and travellers using Singapore Airlines, Qantas or Cathay Pacific are experiencing minimal disruptions via Singapore and Hong Kong, ATIA says.

Airlines have well-established systems in place to navigate such restrictions, and have been operating under constrained conditions since the start of the Ukraine conflict. Travellers should expect some delays, but not panic.

ATIA says travellers will be contacted by their accredited travel agent or airline of delays and cancellations. 

It urges flyers to not contact agents or airlines unless they are travelling in the next three days. That enables those travelling immediately to be assisted. 

There is an increased chance of delays so travellers should be prepared that they may be spending some time airports as a result of schedule adjustments.

Avoid cancelling flights independently. When an airline cancels your flights you are entitiled to a full refund.

ATIA urges flyers to monitor official travel advice, particularly via the SmartTraveller website.

It says the evolving situation "reinforces the importance of booking through an ATIA accredited travel business as accredited agents and businesses are best placed to manage disruptions, rebook flights and ensure clients receive their full entitlements under Australian Consumer Law.

“Australians flying to Europe via the Middle East should be prepared for some delays, but it's important to know that global airlines have systems in place to manage these disruptions," says ATIA CEO Dean Long. 

"We’ve seen this before, and the travel ecosystem is built to respond.

“The closure of airspace is not new. Airlines have been rerouting around Russia and Ukraine for more than two years, and are now adjusting again. The airlines that fly to Australia have world leading safety protocols and route management.

“Travellers shouldn’t panic or cancel unnecessarily. The one thing we learned through Covid is don’t cancel as it reduces the number of rights you have. Let the airline make that decision. This approach ensures your rights are protected and you get the support you need.”

See www.atia.travel

Image: Kaydir Mumyakmaz, Scop.io

Mezcal as anything: Crafting a new spirit from 170-year-old agave plants

A chance comment led to a new drinks business in South Australia.

Bremer Valley Agave has officially distilled the state’s first-ever artisanal agave spirit, handcrafted in the Bremer Valley at Callington, on the eastern slopes of the Adelaide Hills. 

What began as a failed lavender trial and a wild idea over a couple of beers, has become a new business. 

The spirit is being made from wild agave plants believed to be over 170 years old that were originally planted during the copper mining boom of the 1850s.

Founder Nathan Newell, whose family has owned the land for decades, says the discovery of the plants sparked something bigger than they ever expected.

“We knew of these wild plants on our land but never thought much of them. Geoff - or ‘Pa’ - casually mentioned they make spirits from them in Mexico,” says Newell. 

“That offhand comment sparked something. A few conversations later, we were deep into research, and now we’ve made history.”

In partnership with Rob Watt of Route 9 Distillery, the team produced the inaugural small batch using traditional, labour-intensive methods: hand harvesting, roasting in an earthen horno (fire pit), natural fermentation, and copper still distillation, all techniques rooted in centuries of Mexican spirit craftsmanship reimagined for South Australian soil.

With agave spirits among the fastest-growing categories globally, Bremer Valley Agave is aiming to to lead Australia’s contribution to the booming movement — from paddock to glass.

Future plans include a boutique distillery, more agave plantations, a restaurant and accommodation, and immersive agave experiences - all rooted in sustainability, community partnerships, and storytelling.

“This is more than just a drink,” says Newell. “It’s a catalyst for regional tourism, job creation, and a whole new chapter in how we define South Australian spirits and land. 

"It’s our proudest moment yet — and we’re only just getting started.”

A website will soon be up and running at https://bremervalleyagave.com/

UN Tourism links with Slow Food to boost rural communities

The rise of gourmet travel is relentless and now UN Tourism and Slow Food have partnered to help tourism and agriculture links benefit destinations and communities.

The two organisations will work together to promote gastronomy tourism as a tool for socio-economic development.

In a new Memorandum of Understanding signed on the occasion of Sustainable Gastronomy Day (who knew?), the organisations commited to "strengthening the gastronomy tourism value chain, enhancing the linkages between food producers, tourism service providers, destinations, communities and tourists".

Pretty impressive jargon, but what does it mean?

The two groups says they will focus particularly on the development of value added, and innovative tourism experiences linked to local products, sustainable food systems, inclusivity and rural development.

Areas of collaboration will include research on trends in gastronomy tourism; identifying and sharing of case studies and best practices; training and skills development; as well as the creation of networks in gastronomy tourism.

“UN Tourism recognizes the vital role responsible, inclusive tourism can play in supporting communities everywhere," says UN Tourism secretary general Zurab Pololikashvili.

"The work of Slow Food is fully aligned with UN Tourism values and we trust this partnership will play an important role in advancing the development of a sustainable gastronomy tourism that leaves no one behind, for the benefit of communities and destinations.”

Slow Food director general Paolo Di Croce added: “Tourism can be a powerful force for strengthening sustainable local food systems.

"Our Slow Food Travel program is a sustainable culinary tourism initiative designed to create immersive travel experiences that support rural communities and celebrate local gastronomic heritage.

"In line with our values, it offers a unique opportunity to connect with farmers and producers around the world, while discovering and tasting the rich, often overlooked, biodiversity of food.”

Air India trims flight schedule

Air India has trimmed its flight plans by 15% over the next few weeks.

The airline reduced its international flight numbers until July 15 amid plans to complete pre-flight safety checks following the fatal Ahmedabad plane crash earlier this month.

Some cancelled flights are also a consequence of airspace closures due to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, travel news hub Travel Mole reports.

In official statements, the airline said it is in the process of completing a series of one-time safety checks directed by the Indian aviation regulator, DGCA.

These checks are carried out on airline's Boeing 787 fleet as they return to India.

Air India has completed checks on nine of the Boeing 787 aircraft in its fleet and is on track to complete this process for the remaining 24 aircraft within the timeline provided by the regulator.

Some of these checks could lead to higher turnaround times and potential delays on certain long-haul routes - especially those to airports with operating curfews.

The website Aeroutes.com reveals cancellations and reductions in services to destinations including London Gatwick and London Heathrow, Chicago, Toronto Copenhagen and Paris, as well as to Melbourne and Sydney.

Customers are advised to check the status of their flights at http://airindia.com/in/en/manage/flight-status.html.

Start your winter hotel stay with a red wine tasting

Sydney's superbly located The Porter House Hotel Sydney MGallery has launched another enticing wine promotion. 

The Red Affair is billed as an opportunity to "escape the chill and embrace indulgence" with the seasonal experience, designed for lovers of bold wines. 

The afternoon or evening begins at the hotel’s Handpicked Cellar Door, with a tasting of merlot, shiraz, cabernet sauvignon and an aged Colheita Port, paired with cheeses from France, Italy, New Zealand and Victoria. 

Afterwards you can check into your room. Available for stays until August 31, the package is priced from $390 per couple.

“The Red Affair creates moments of slow enjoyment, conversation, and connection,” says Mitchell Turner, the hotel’s general manager. “In winter, when we’re naturally drawn inward, both the red wines on offer and our historic hotel are aged to perfection to warm you up from the inside out.”

Set inside a former tobacco factory in one of Sydney's most carefully preserved 1870s buildings, the hotel has a rich history. 

The old quarter has original timbers, exposed brick, and restored murals and is just a short stroll from Hyde Park, Pitt Street Mall, Chinatown, and the new Gadigal underground Metro station. 

Details and bookings at https://porterhousehotel.com.au/offers/the-red-affair-wine-stay-package/

So you’d like to own some of Australia’s rarest wines?

Fancy owning a bottle of the very first vintage of Penfolds’ flagship wine: the Penfolds Grange Hermitage 1951, released as Bin 1? 

The bottle is expected to fetch more than the current price record - and that of the country’s most expensive wine - of over $150,000 (including buyer’s premium).  

It is one if the lots in the upcoming Penfolds Rewards of Patience auction to be hosted by fine wine purveyors Langtons.

The auction launched on the Langtons website this week and will close on Sunday, June 29, at 9pm.

The auction will be a chance for avid Penfolds fans to bid on the largest collection of rare, collector wines from the prestigious Australian winery including special, early vintages from the 1950s and large-format bottles. 

Notably, the auction will feature a bottle of the very first vintage of Penfolds’ flagship wine the Penfolds

In addition to the Bin 1, the auction also features one of the world’s very few full Bin Grange Sets from 1951 to 2018, which was last seen up for bidding at the 2022 Penfolds Rewards of Patience Auction going for a record-price of $430,000.

The Penfolds Rewards of Patience auction has been hosted by Langtons since 1996, with the auction’s name a nod to the seminal book Penfolds: The Rewards of Patience by Master of Wine Andrew Caillard.

“As the auction market begins to warm to an interest rate cut, it’s the wines of Penfolds, the most represented wine in the Langtons Classification, that savvy wine enthusiasts and investors are reaching for,” says Michael Anderson, Head of Auctions and Wine Consignment at Langtons.

“This may be one the last chances to bid on a complete set of Penfolds Grange. These unicorn pieces
become rarer each year as bottles fail, wines are consumed and verticals are split.

“This is an incredible version of a Penfolds Grange Set - one of the finest we have seen.”

Other highlights in the Penfolds Rewards of Patience Auction include a g-series set of the g3, g4 and g5
bottles and early vintages of the Penfolds Grange from 1955.

Sue Bell has some big wine news

Winemaker Sue Bell is now the outright owner of Coonawarra standout Bellwether Wines. 

Bell today released an innovative video press release announcing she had bought out her business partner Andrew Rennie’s share of the business.

Bell and Rennie bought the historic Glen Roy shearing shed, built around 1868, back in 2008.

Located on six hectates of Australian bush, the facility now boasts a winery and cellar door space to that hosts food, wine and music events, as well as a camping area.

“It’s a big week for my career and Bellwether,” she said on the video.

Former Stonehaven chief winemaker Bell said she was “equally excited and terrified” to be the sole owner of the business.

She makes a range of excellent wines using fruit from local growers and as far away as Tasmania. 

Discover Japan’s roads less travelled - on foot

World Expeditions, which specialises in less-visited locations, has unveiled a new self-guided walking adventure along the remote and rugged Michinoku Coastal Trail in Japan.

This seven-day journey offers travellers an opportunity to explore Japan’s wild north-east - a part of the country still largely untouched by mass tourism. 

World Expeditions promises an experience where “the pace is slower, the landscapes raw, and the cultural encounters refreshingly unfiltered”.

The Michinoku Coastal Trail, stretching over 1,000 kilometres through the scenic Tohoku region, was developed as part of Japan’s reconstruction efforts following the 2011 earthquake and tsunami. 

The trail now stands as a symbol of renewal and resilience. 

World Expeditions’ new itinerary cherry-picks the trail’s most spectacular sections, guiding travellers through coastal shrines, remote fishing villages, forested headlands and hidden bays between Hachinohe and the cliffs of Kitayamazaki.

Unlike Japan’s better-known walking routes, the Michinoku Trail remains largely untouched by over tourism. 

The self-guided trip is designed for experienced walkers who value both independence and support. 

Travellers receive clear daily route notes, reliable local assistance and luggage transfers, ensuring a seamless journey while maintaining the freedom to walk at their own pace. Accommodations are in locally run inns and small hotels, where regional hospitality and fresh seafood meals bring each day to a perfect close.

"This trail offers travellers the chance to connect deeply with nature and local traditions while enjoying the freedom of independent exploration,” says World Expeditions CEO Sue Badyari.

“Importantly, this initiative supports sustainable tourism by directing vital income to communities along the trail - many of which are still recovering from the 2011 tsunami.

“By choosing this walk, our travellers contribute directly to the revitalisation of these quiet coastal towns, helping preserve their heritage and support a resilient future for the people who call this remarkable region home."

View the Michinoku Coastal Trail itinerary

For more information on World Expeditions, visit www.worldexpeditions.com 

Opening up Suzhou to tourists

Shanghai is a global tourism magnet, while neighbouring Suzhou is much less well known. 

That is why China Eastern Airlines has partnered with Suzhou city to launch the "Suzhou Pass" Co-Branded Card, exclusively available when booking international flights to China through the airline's official website.

Suzhou and Shanghai, two of eastern China's most beautiful cities, are just a short train ride apart. Suzhou city is known for its natural landscape, rich cultural heritage, and modern urban spaces.

The Co-Branded Card is the official benefits programme that provides travellers with access to Suzhou's cultural institutions and exclusive benefits to memorable experiences.

Specifically, it offers free access to Suzhou classical gardens including Humble Administrator's Garden, Tiger Hill, Lion Grove and a total of 14 renowned scenic spots across the city. 

Travellers can also access discounts on over 100 restaurants and hotels and get special prices for events and on public transport.

The tap-and-pay Co-Branded Card allows travellers to pay across multiple platforms. 

Travellers can book flights from overseas to Shanghai via the China Eastern Airlines official website, app or WeChat mini-programs by selecting the "Suzhou Pass Premium Product" package, which includes both the flight ticket and "Suzhou Pass" Co-Branded Card in a single order. 

Once in China, visitors can easily collect their physical card at either Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) Terminal 1 or the Suzhou City Terminal.

See https://pass.jsjfsz.com/suzhoupass/v1/#/

Anyone for a seriously aged whisky?

Glenfarclas, one of Scotland’s few remaining family-owned and managed distilleries, has this week announced the release of its oldest whisky to date.

Distilled on November 20,  1953, the Glenfarclas 70-Year-Old has been matured in the distillery’s traditional dunnage warehouses in Speyside. 

This release was laid down in first-fill sherry casks. The whisky has been overseen by six distillery managers over the past seventy years and will now be available to purchase internationally.

The 70-Year-Old is an exceptionally rare Glenfarclas. When it was distilled back in 1953, the malt barn would have been a hive of activity at the heart of the distillery, with barley being hand-turned on the malting floors. 

There will be only 262 bottles available globally.  

John Grant, chairman and fifth generation of the Grant family to have owned and run Glenfarclas distillery, said: 
"As chairman of a family-owned distillery I am committed to overseeing the production of our exceptional malt whisky, just as my forefathers did before me. 

“We take great pride in maintaining complete control over every aspect of production, preserving our time-honoured traditional methods - most notably, the use of direct-fired stills, which creates a robust and full-bodied spirit.

"Remarkably, this particular cask has been maturing almost as long as I’ve been alive. Releasing it now marks a true milestone.”

The new release is the oldest in the Glenfarclas Warehouse Series, surpassing the 30-, 35-, and 40-Year-Old expressions. 

Callum A. Fraser, distillery manager at Glenfarclas, is proud of the whisky. 

“This is true Glenfarclas and this expression captures the very DNA of the distillery, he said. “What we did 30 or 40 or even 70 years ago is very much what we still do today. The warehouses are still here, holding decades of stories in their walls. At the heart of it all, tradition remains key.

“This whisky has waited 70 years to be enjoyed. Through wars, the reign of a queen and now a king, the world has changed - but this spirit has endured, and it stands as a rare and timeless testament to patience and craft.”

The recommended retail price is £20,000 (UK). Ouch! 

The Yarra celebrates winter

The Yarra Valley celebrates winter over two weeks in late June and early July. 

Fireside Festival - Yarra Valley, running from June 27 to July 13, features a series of events over one of Australia’s most celebrated wine regions. 

Events range from open-fire feasts and bold winter reds to immersive masterclasses and fun tastings. 

Fireside Festivalbrings together 20+ Yarra Valley wineries and venues in a two-week winter celebration of wine, warmth and regional hospitality.

Whether you're looking to highlight regional food and wine experiences, emerging trends in cool-climate wine, or the growing visitor appeal of winter in Victoria’s wine country, Wine Yarra Valley promises something for every taste. 

The full program is live at: wineyarravalley.com.au/fireside

Ubud: My you’ve changed

Ubud used to be a quiet little artistic village in Bali. 

Now it is a magnet for tourists from around the world. 

The trouble is that the infrastructure has not kept up with the influx. 

The roads are shambolic. The pavements a health hazard (see the image below). 

But you can still get cheap massages, even cheaper Bintangs and interesting cultural experiences. New age therapists abound  

There is a forest where dim tourists get their mobile phones stolen by exhuberant monkeys; some seriously good restaurants and street markets abound.

So the masses will keep coming. 

The Mehrudhani Boutique Hotel is a nice affordable oasis down a laneway in the centre of town. It’s pleasingly quiet in a town where quiet can be hard to find. 

Check it out here https://www.meruhdani.com/

Scoot moves to take over Jetstar Asia routes

Singapore Airlines’ budget subsidiary, Scoot will take over some routes currently run by soon-to-close airline Jetstar Asia.

Jetstar Asia, based at Changi Airport, is set to close down on July 31, due to high airport fees and fierce competition.

Scoot will launch new routes from Singapore to Okinawa, Japan and Labuan Bajo in Indonesia, Scoot said.

Both routes were exclusive to Jetstar Asia.

Main carrier Singapore Airlines will increase capacity on other Jetstar Asia routes, news hub Travel Mole reported. 

These include to Manila, Colombo and Jakarta.

Full details of expanded schedules will be announced subject to approvals.

Scoot has also said it will look to fast track applications of Jetstar Asia staff for available jobs within SIA Group.

Changing of the guard at Jim Barry Wines

The next generation has taken control at leading Clare Valley wine producer Jim Barry Wines. 

The business has announced a succession plan that sees the third generation of the Barry family take over the reins of the business.

After more than 40 years at the helm, Peter Barry will step down as managing directot Managing and hand over the leadership to his sons, Tom and Sam. 

Both have been heavily involved in the day-to-day running of the business for the past 15 years,
serving as director of winemaking and director of sales, respectively.

Founded by Jim and Nancy Barry in 1959, Jim Barry Wines is one of the Clare Valley’s most respected family-owned wineries. 

Peter Barry, who joined the business in 1977 and became managing director in 1985, has been the driving force behind Jim Barry Wines’ national and
international success.

“I have enjoyed being focused on a goal of making wines that are respected nationally and internationally and enhancing the reputation of the world-class
winemaking area, which I am fortunate enough to call home,” Peter Barry said.

"We’ve never been in the business of standing still. My job, with the wise assistance of my wife Sue, was to build on what Mum and Dad started, and now it’s time for the next generation to do the same.

“Tom and Sam have worked incredibly hard over the past 15 years, learning all facets of the business, and I
couldn’t be prouder and more pleased to pass the baton to them.

“Tom and Sam will take on the joint managing director role, supported by a strong leadership team they’ve helped shape over the past five years. They will also
continue to lead their respective areas in winemaking and global sales, bringing their energy, strategic vision, and a deep understanding of the family’s vineyards
to the forefront of the business.”

The new leadership will also be supported by sister Olivia Barry, who continues as Brand Ambassador, and Olivia Hoffmann-Barry (Tom’s wife), who leads the
company’s marketing efforts as  director of marketing. 

Airline to fine unruly passengers

Budget airline Ryanair has revealed it intends to fine disruptive passengers who get kicked off a flight.

It has introduced a £500 fine which it says it will impose on unruly passengers, news portal Travel Mole reports. 

The airline says it remains ‘committed to tackling unruly passenger behaviour for the benefit of passengers and crew, and will continue to pursue disruptive passengers for civil damages.’

“At a minimum, they will now be issued with a £500 fine.”

Ryanair has supported legal action against disruptive passengers which led to flights being diverted recently.

“It is unacceptable that passengers are made suffer unnecessary disruption because of one unruly passenger’s behaviour, a Ryanair spokesperson said. 

“To help ensure a comfortable and stress-free environment, we have introduced a £500 fine, which will be issued to any passengers offloaded from aircraft as a result of their misconduct.

“Disruptive behaviour in such a confined shared space is unacceptable, and we hope that our proactive approach will act as a deterrent.”

Ryanair passengers who musbehave will also will also be pursued through the courts for civil damages by the company.

A birthday present from Saffire Freycinet

Saffire Freycinet, Tasmania's leading luxury resort, is celebrating its 15th birthday. 

Fifteen years ago, back in 2010, Saffire reimagined what luxury could mean in Tasmania. 

Now the award-winning lodge marks a milestone anniversary after booking 82,000 room nights. 

To mark the occasion, Saffire is offering a special deal for travellers to reconnect with the wild, restorative beauty of a Tasmanian winter. 

The package is for two guests and includes a guaranteed upgrade to a Signature Suite, all dining and beverages, Saffire’s iconic Signature Experiences, $100 property credit, and late check out. 

Available for a limited time, the two-night ‘15 Years of Leading Luxury’ package is on sale until July 31, for stays from now through to August 31, 2025, with rates from $2,350 per person, twin share.

Federal Group managing director and Chief Executive Officer Greg Farrell said when the company opened Saffire in 2010, Tasmania’s tourism offering was still finding its voice.

“We saw an opportunity to create something that didn’t yet exist here, an experience that would honour the raw beauty of this place while offering the kind of personal, immersive luxury that speaks to the soul,” Farrell said.

“From the beginning, Saffire was never just a place to stay, it was a place to feel, to connect.” he said. 

Looking ahead, Saffire continues to evolve. In 2024, plans were unveiled for the Saffire Villa, an ultra-premium, private retreat set above the main lodge and designed for families, small groups, or corporate escapes. 

It will open in late 2026. 

Luxury Lodges of Australia executive chair Penny Rafferty said Saffire Freycinet was a valued founding member of the collective, which was also established in 2010.

“When Saffire Freycinet opened in 2010 it was a milestone moment for Tasmania and the emerging category of Australian experiential luxury travel. It has continued to grow and evolve over time, both leading and responding to global luxury travel trends," she said. 

"Federal Hospitality has continued to innovate and invest in the Saffire experience over the years, ensuring it is always a compelling choice for new and returning guests.” 

For more info on the offer see 15 Years of Leading Luxury - Saffire Freycinet, call 03 6256 7888 or email stay@saffire-freycinet.com.au

Image: Adam Gibson