Jetstar to launch low-cost direct flights to Sri Lanka

Jetstar has launched Australia's first low-cost direct flights to Sri Lanka. 

Flights will take off for the first time in August next year, with the launch of a direct low-cost service from Melbourne to the South Asian nation’s capital, Colombo.

Jetstar will become the first Australian airline to operate this route, flying three times a week between Melbourne and Colombo and offering more than 100,000 seats a year starting from $315. 

The year-round service will be operated by Jetstar’s fleet of 11 widebody Boeing 787 Dreamliners, which are progressively being upgraded to overhaul both the economy and business class cabins.

The interior refit includes more than doubling the number of business class seats and installing wifi so customers can stream entertainment to their own devices.

The addition of a new lie-flat crew rest area to allow flights of up to 16 hours will open the door to other long-haul destinations in the future. 

Seats for the new flights went on sale at midday with one-way fares available between Melbourne (Tullamarine) and Colombo from only $315 at jetstar.com.

“Colombo is an incredible destination, and from August next year, we’re excited to be making it easier for Aussies to experience everything the beautiful country of Sri Lanka has to offer,@ said Jetstar CEO Stephanie Tully. 

“This new route out of our home base of Melbourne is part of a huge growth phase for Jetstar. We’ve added new destinations, more aircraft and we’re continuing to expand our international network to give travellers even more choice and opportunities to take off for less.”

Melbourne Airport Chief Executive Officer Lorie Argus welcomed the new flights. 

“We're thrilled to see Sri Lanka, one of the region’s fastest-growing destinations, become Jetstar's 10th international destination from Melbourne," Argus said. 

* Holiday Package Deals including return flights, five night's accommodation, bags, seats, daily buffet breakfasts with guaranteed room upgrades, late checkout and a bottle of wine on arrival at Radisson Hotel Colombo start from $1,102 per person, twin share. 

Why now is a good time to book for the Philippines

Been thinking about a holiday in the Philippines? 

There probably won't be a better time to book than this week. 

. 
Cebu Pacific Air is kicking off the holidays early with its 12.12 Super Seat Fest, offering Australians one-way all-in fares to the Philippines from just $219.

The sale runs from today until December 13 and is valid for for travel from June 1–November 30, 2026. 

From Manila, travellers can connect to 27 domestic destinations, including Palawan, Siargao (above), Davao, and Iloilo, making it easy to explore the best of the Philippines.

With the airline’s wide domestic network, they can also connect through Clark and Cebu to explore more of what the Philippines has to offer.

CEB operates in 37 domestic and 26 international destinations spread across Asia, Australia, and the Middle East.

Flights can be booked at www.cebupacificair.com.

New safety rules? This airline just can't cope

Planning to fly with India's largest airline over the next couple of months?

Good luck with that.

IndiGo has apologised to passengers following several days of major fight disruptions and cancellations and said it may be month before its full schedule is back to normal.

IndiGo "deeply regrets the inconvenience caused", the airline said.

It cited the new pilot duty rules as a major factor, along with bad weather, and some technical issues, news hub Travel Mole reported.

The airline’s troubles stem largely from newly phased-in rules for flight crew which mandate extended rest periods and layovers.

Following emergency talks with the Indian Aviation Ministry, IndiGo said it will proactively cut its number of scheduled flights starting from December 8 in a bid to reduce cancellations.

So cancellations to reduce cancellations.

The airline has said it expects to resume its full flight schedule in February 2026.

IndiGo normally operates about 2,300 flights on average a day. It had reportedly cancelled over 900 flights in just four days leading into the weekend.

IndiGo, despite nearly two years’ notice, is struggling to make a successful transition to meet the new safety rules, Flight Radar reports.

eat! Berlin aiming to sparkle in spring

Berlin is one of the world's most vibrant cities - and a potential magnet for food and wine lovers early in the new year. 

The eat! berlin 2026 gourmet festival runs from February 19 to March 2, 2026 showcasing German and international cuisine.

The festival boasts a prominent international line-up including star Austrian chef Lukas Nagl, who will will be a guest at the "From the Other Shore" event at the Rutz Zollhaus, while leading Alsatian chef Lucas Ramstein will bring a culinary journey through France with "Le Tour de France" to the Brasserie Quarré at the Hotel Adlon Kempinski.

Among the two-Michelin-starred chefs are Tony Hohlfeld, who will create a special evening at Restaurant Horváth, and Daniel Schimkovitsch, a guest chef at POTS. 

The national line-up covers a broad stylistic spectrum - from classic produce-based cuisine to modern regionality and internationally inspired concepts.

Among the program highlights of 2026 is the premiere of "SpizzaPizza", which makes a promise of "from oven to hand in two minutes". 

Local star chef Tim Raue (top) will present his new gastronomic concept for the first time at eat! berlin and will showcase it on February 24 at his eponymous restaurant. 

There will be a completely Vegan cinema evening at the Astor Film Lounge, while a perennial audience favourite the Tagesspiegel Blind Date; where neither the chef nor the wine supplier is known.

With "SparklingB!", eat! berlin 2026 is expanding its portfolio for the first time to include a major, independent sparkling wine trade fair. 

See www.eat-berlin.de 

Vancouver puts on the culinary glitz

Vancouver is one of the most spectacular cities in North America. It has a great food and drink culture and has the advantage of being in Canada, rather than its belligerent neighbour. 

If you are heading to British Columbia early in the new year be sure to check out Dine Out Vancouver, Canada’s largest food and drink celebration, which will return for its 24th year. 

Destination Vancouver has announced that foodies can enjoy 19 days of feasting fun from January 21 to February 8, 2026. 

The Dine Out Vancouver Festival (DOVF) is an opportunity for visitors and locals alike to celebrate the city's culinary scene. 

Diners can look forward to a line-up of special menus from local chefs, unique culinary experiences, and a schedule of tasty events. 

The 2026 DOVF will showcase more than 400 restaurants from the North Shore to downtown, through Richmond and beyond, dishing up menus in fixed price points ranging from $25 to $70 per person.

Guests can also enjoy exclusive menus from Michelin-starred restaurants Burdock & Co. and Published on Main for $110.

The Dine Out Vancouver Festival will feature more than 30 ticketed dining events, including a three-course dinner in one of Rocky Mountaineer’s luxury rail cars at the Rocky Mountaineer Station. 

There will also be the “Chowder Cup”- a competition where chefs can showcase their creativity by featuring a sustainable seafood ingredient to win over a panel of judges. 

Also think events like a Sea Foraging Adventure. a Chinatown Walk, Talk and Dim Sum and a Grand Mezcal Tasting Event. 

Participating downtown Vancouver hotels will be offering up to a $250 Prepaid Mastercard with a two-night hotel stay, or a $75 Prepaid Mastercard with a one-night hotel stay (terms and conditions apply).

As the official airline of Dine Out Vancouver Festival, Air Canada will be offering discounted fares. 

For more info see https://www.dineoutvancouver.com/attractions/.

Many different facets of the Barossa

From new experiences, new tastes and new places to stay, the Barossa is one of the liveliest wine regions to visit in Australia.

New at Jacob's Creek, as part of its membership with Ultimate Winery Experiences, is a suite of horse riding experiences from their Barossa cellar door, created in collaboration with Olympic medallist and eventer Megan Jones and her team at Hallmark Farm.

The partnership aims to blend the best of wine tourism and agritourism, offering guests the chance to explore the beautiful vineyards and surrounding landscapes on horseback before returning to enjoy a taste of the local product.

The experiences range from a horse ride and picnic, to a scenic trail ride and private curated tasting.

Meanwhile, Barossa Grand Retreats’ Benbullen Pavilions (above), set within 10 acres of peaceful countryside in the Barossa, are aimed at couples or groups seeking privacy and comfort.

Surrounded by rolling vineyards and native landscapes, each pavilion features three suites, each with its own en-suite bathroom and private deck.

Open-plan living areas include gourmet kitchens with premium European appliances and a spacious butler’s pantry.

Located just outside Angaston, Benbullen Pavilions offers high-speed wifi and sustainable design principles.



When you've had enough wine but still want a drink, The Distillery Door at the Barossa Valley Distillery (above) might fit the bill.

The Distillery Door Tasting Room & Cocktail Bar is housed in the Old Penfolds Distillery in Nuriootpa.

It is home to some of the oldest commercial stills in Australia, including a Coffey Still of which there are only three in the world.

The Distillery is a celebration of all things spirits, offering tasting paddles of gins and cocktails, alongside local Barossa wines and beers from smaller producers. 

imbibe in the historic bar or in the botanical garden seating area outside. There are pizzas from Friday-Sunday.

See https://www.barossa.com/

easyJet unveils new cheap flight options from the UK to Europe

One of the thrilling surprises for Australians visiting the UK is the ready availability of flights to exotic destinations for the cost a rail trip back home. 

There may be all sorts of restrictions; the extras can pile up and some of the flights leave from secondary airports. But there are some real bargains to be had if you have a sense of adventure. 

EasyJet - one of the leading budget airlines - has just unveiled two new routes for summer 2026 from the UK to Germany and Italy. 

Seats now on sale to Naples from Liverpool John Lennon Airport and to Munich from London Southend. 

The Naples flights will operate on Mondays and Fridays from August 3, while easyJet’s new flight to Munich will start on September 17, operating twice weekly on Thursdays and Sundays and starting ahead of Oktoberfest. 

EasyJet holidays has also launched packages to both cities with flights and accommodation included. 

“We are really pleased to be launching even more new routes and package holidays," said  Kevin Doyle, easyJet UK country manager. 

"By continuing to grow our network, we are providing even greater choice and connectivity from across the UK.” 

As of today, easyJet serves 22 UK airports, offering more than 640 routes to 140 destinations from the UK to Europe and beyond. 

The airline also recently announced new routes from across eight UK airports including new connections to Italy, Spain, France, Greece, Portugal, Cyprus, the Canary Islands, Egypt and Malta. 

Worth checking out. Just don't expect any frills. 

Asia leading the way in the changing tourism space

Asia is at the forefront of emerging travel trends for 2026 and beyond, leading travel platform Agoda reports. 

“The travel landscape is transforming at an unprecedented pace – and Asia is at the forefront of emerging trends," says the Agoda 2026 Travel Outlook report.

"Our research finds that change is fuelled by emerging markets, new destinations, tech innovations, streamlined visa processes, expanded flight routes, improved tourism infrastructure, and more," says Agoda CEO Omri Morgenshtern. 

"With so many moving parts, 2026 feels like the beginning of  a new era in travel."

Based on survey and industry insights, the report identifies key insights poised to shape the travel industry in 2026. 

Efforts to reduce friction in travel are evident across Asia, in air travel infrastructure, visa policies, and digital finance, paving the way for increased intra-regional and international tourism. 

Airlines in the Asia Pacific region are scheduled to take delivery of an estimated 615 new aircraft in 2026. Additionally, AI innovation is driving the convergence of travel services, with travellers increasingly expecting the technology to provide travel inspiration and enhance the booking process.

Respondents in Agoda's survey stated that price remains a crucial factor for travelers when selecting accommodation, with savvy consumers seeking great deals that enable them to enjoy more experiences and visit more destinations. 

Secondary destinations continue to gain popularity as travellers look for authentic and immersive cultural experiences. 

Experiential travel, including concerts and food trips, is becoming mainstream, with travellers prioritising memorable experiences over simply visiting destinations.

The 2026 Travel Outlook Report by Agoda can be downloaded via https://ago-da.co/2026-report.

Image: Priyanka Juneja, Scop.io 

Qantas ups the ante at the pointy end

Qantas is adding extra oomph at the pointy end of its planes.

Customers travelling in first class on the Australian flag carrier can now expect elevated dining options, exclusive Aesop amenity kits, premium Bollinger champagne and redesigned pyjamas as the airline introduces a range of enhancements to its A380 premium cabin.

Rolling out across the airline's international network from this month, the enhancements are described in a media release as "part of the airline's ongoing investment in customer experience and have been shaped by customer insights and inflight trials".

Food will be a priority with Qantas creative director of food and beverage Neil Perry serving up signature dishes from his star Margaret restaurant in Sydney, alongside a range of new menu items featuring Australian producers from across the country.

Think dishes like tartare of yellowfin tuna with gochujang, toasted sesame and baby cos; roasted Wollemi duck with orange caramel, crisp Chinese greens, golden sesame and jasmine rice, and crumbed Margra lamb cutlets with shaved fennel, pine nuts, rocket, salsa verde and lemon.

The new First dining experience will be paired with award-winning Australian wines, a wider selection of cocktails and a signature pour of Bollinger La Grande Année 2015 alongside Pommery Cuvée Louise 2006.

New Aesop amenity kits in three exclusive collectable designs created for Qantas First will be offered to customers alongside the introduction of new navy Qantas-designed pyjamas and loafer-style slippers for inflight comfort.



Qantas International CEO Cam Wallace said the updates reflect the airline's ongoing investment in delivering a premium experience across its international network.

“Our customers fly First because they value the quality in every detail," he said. "On longer flights, a fine dining experience, premium amenities and complete comfort really matter, so we've focused on improving each of these areas.

“Our incredible cabin crew have been undergoing inflight trials and an intensive training program. It is great to welcome new premium partners onboard and we look forward to delivering this new experience for our First customers."

First customers will be able to opt to dine on demand throughout the journey to allow for maximum rest.

Qantas First is available on services operated on A380 aircraft to destinations including Singapore, London, Los Angeles, Johannesburg and Dallas. The enhancements are expected to have been rolled out across the network by mid 2026.

New report show travellers are taking new directions

What direction is travel headed in 2026?

Booming hotel group Minor Hotels says travellers are re-thinking how they move through the world, seeking multi-dimensional experiences that resonate emotionally, relationally and spiritually.

The new report released this week, the inaugural Minor Hotels Travel Trends Report, explores various dimensions of connection that illustrate the shift for hotels from simply delivering service to helping guests find meaning through their journeys.

“Today’s travellers want more than destinations, they want stories, connections and meaning," says Dillip Rajakarier, Group CEO of Minor International, parent company of Minor Hotels.

"Our trend report reveals a growing appetite for authentic engagement and conscious travel choices.

"For Minor Hotels, this is an invitation to continue shaping experiences that prioritise wellbeing and cultural depth, ensuring every journey offers something truly memorable.

"Despite ongoing economic uncertainty, the report finds that people continue to prioritise travel in the year ahead. The outlook for 2026 is overwhelmingly positive, with 94% of respondents expecting to travel as much or more in the coming year, with one-third planning more trips than in 2025.

"Ninety-four % plan to spend the same or more on travel in 2026, with almost half (47%) intending to increase their travel budgets. Luxury travellers are nearly twice as likely to travel more in 2026 compared to all respondents, with 61% expecting an increase in frequency."

The report says travellers are prioritising quality over quantity, seeking experiences that deliver personal value rather than simply more trips. While travellers remain optimistic for the year ahead, affordability remains a leading factor shaping plans for 53% of respondents, followed by seasonality (42%), ease of travel (40%) and time (40%).

Over half of respondents (53%) book their travel within three months of departure, showing a willingness to clear their schedule at short notice or to wait for greater clarity amidst ongoing uncertainty.

Hotel websites dominate as the most utilised planning tool for 80% of travellers, ahead of personal recommendations (35%) and online travel agents (29%). At the same time, emerging technologies, such as generative AI chatbots, are now used by 12%. Heaven help us all.

Even on group journeys, travellers are carving out space for solitude and nature to recharge with 71% of respondents agree that taking a break from technology, social media or work during their travel is important for their personal wellbeing.

"Forty-four percent plan to integrate more wellness or mindfulness - although I'm betting some of them have no idea what mindfulness is - rising to 73% among those already engaged in wellness practices. Spa treatments lead as the top-choice activity (75%), followed by nature-based experiences (59%) and fitness (49%).

Culture is discovered through flavour, with food the primary gateway for 85% of travellers, followed by historic architecture (71%) and nature (65%). Not so sure about all that love of architecture, either. 

# Read the full report and the trends shaping travel in the year of connection here:
https://media.minorhotels.com/en-GLO/258457-minor-hotels-travel-trends-report-reveals-optimism-and-travellers-search-for-connection-in-20

Mövenpick goes large with new 1,530-room hotel

If you enjoy your hotels small and cosy then you've come to the wrong place. 

 
Global hotel giant Accor has just unveiled the world's largest Mövenpick brand hotel with the signing of Manila Bay Westside in partnership with Megaworld, the Philippines' largest township developer. 

The new Mövenpick hotel will have 1,530 rooms, marking a significant milestone in Accor's growth strategy in Asia. It is a re-branding of the Grand Westside. 

The revamp of the hotel will feature a sky bridge connecting it to the Westside City integrated casino and entertainment complex and the Grand Opera House.

Swiss-born, Mövenpick has evolved into a global brand "meeting the rising demand for high-quality, experience-driven hospitality among discerning travellers".

The hotel will be located within Megaworld's Westside City Township Development in Parañaque, a quarter offering a mix of retail, entertainment, business, and leisure attractions.

To re-open in mid-2026, Mövenpick Manila Bay Westside will offer a range of dining experiences including a specialty Filipino restaurant, an international all-day dining venue, and a signature bar. 

Guests will also be also enjoy Mövenpick's iconic Chocolate Hour, an immersive, complimentary experience offered every afternoon.

The hotel will offer modern, flexible meeting and event spaces. 

“Across Asia, we continue to grow sustainably by collaborating closely with our partners and ensuring we bring the right brand to the right market," says Andrew Langdon, Chief Development Officer, Asia, for Accor. 

"This reflects our owner-centric approach, our adaptability, and the strength of ALL Accor in amplifying the visibility of our premium brands." 

Cleofe Albiso, managing director of Megaworld Hotels & Resorts, said: “The opening of the world's largest Mövenpick is a powerful testament to our group's efforts to scale our world-class offerings and meet the demands of the broader international market. 

"It reflects our commitment to building the right facilities, empowering local talent, and reinforcing our readiness to welcome the rest of the world. 

"This partnership reflects our shared belief that the Philippines is ready to stand as a distinct global destination. As we rebrand Grand Westside Hotel into the world's largest Mövenpick, we continue to generate more jobs, help drive stronger tourism activity, and open doors for communities to grow alongside this development.”

The opening of Mövenpick Manila Bay Westside will see Accor become the largest international hotel operator in the Philippines with 13 hotels and more than 4,700 keys across eight brands. 

A way to reduce Hobart's massive potential stadium debt

 

How can Tasmania help ease its tremendous debt should the controversial new Macquarie Point Stadium get the go head?

User pays would seem to be be a very fair system to all should Hobart's contentious multi-purpose stadium eventually be built. 

The proposed stadium has critics who says who sat it is too expensive, in the wrong location, poorly planned and atrociously ugly. And does not need a roof. 

Others says it is essential for the state. Both for the progress of Tasmania's finances, tourism, and for the AFL dream to become a reality 

Fair enough. 

Let those who are keen on the stadium and want to attend events help pay for it to be build, and kept maintained. And those who do not want it can completely ignore it. 

To help cover costs every person buying a ticket for an event could pay maybe a $50 user premium. Each time they attend an event. Kids maybe $25, or even $10. 

The sports fans and concert goers will be able to pay for the right to attend the shiny new 23,000-seat stadium and enjoy all of its its benefits.

Because surely Tasmanians would not want the hopes and dreams of their children to be carried on someone else's shoulders.

And visitors splashing out on air fares and hotel rooms would be unlikely to be dissuaded by paying an extra $50 for a match, or concert ticket. 

Think what happens now. If you want to catch a bus, you pay for it. Or decide not to travel. . 

If you wat to go into a restaurant and eat, you pay the price. Or decide not to eat.

If you want to visit a national park, you choose to visit it and pay a fee, or have the freedom not to enter.

Similarly if you want to upgrade your airline flight. You pay a premium. 

Those who decide they want to attend one of the seven AFL matches to be held each year in Hobart could easily pay $50 (or even $100) per person extra per event. Or choose to go to a match in Launceston without a roof instead.  

They would get to see to see games they would otherwise have to travel to Melbourne so see. That said, they would be saving a lot of money on flights, hotels etc while also boosting the local economy. 

The same when Bruce Springsteen or Maria Carey, or a Creedence tribute band, play a concert under the expensive roof. 

Those who want to attend and pay a premium payment would be happy about for not having to travel interstate. Those who prefer not to attend do pay anything. 

For seven home AFL fames fans would play $350 each season, or maybe $700. Same with cricket same, and concerts.  

All perfectly equitable. 

In fact, what could be fairer?  All the while helping the state and reining in that potential massive debt.    

  

Airbus failure causes global flight chaos

An Airbus software glitch is causing chaos around the globe, with thousands of weekend flights cancelled.

Airbus said it was ordering immediate updates to 6,000 of its widely used A320 range of jets - affecting more than half the global fleet.

The news came during the busiest travel weekend of the year in the United States and is causing disruption at airports around the world.

Airbus ordered airlines to undertake software modifications on its A320s after it discovered the risk of errors in the plane's flight control systems.

It was among the largest recalls affecting Airbus in its 55-year history. The plane is flown by more than 350 airlines and some 11,300 A320s are in operation.

The fix involves reverting to earlier software and is relatively simple, but reportedly must be carried out before the planes can fly again, a bulletin issued to airlines says.

The world's largest A320 operator, American Airlines, said some 340 of its 480 A320 aircraft would need the fix. It said it mostly expected these to be completed by Saturday with about two hours required for each plane.

Other airlines affected include Lufthansa, United and easyJet.

In Australia, thousands of travellers’ flight plans were thrown into chaos.

Budget airline Jetstar has cancelled or delayed 90 flights while rolling out urgent software updates to 34 of its planes.

Sofitel adds some festive romance to your hotel stay

Soiftel hotels want to add a little fragrance and romance to your stay.

This festive season, Sofitel is offering special packages that combine sound, light, and scent "to create a moment of true connection".

The Candle Experience is described as an immersive in-room ritual "that transforms guest rooms and suites into a shimmering sanctuary of candlelight, scent and sound".

Designed for those seeking calm during the holiday rush, the experience aims to blend "Parisian romance with modern luxury, inviting guests to pause, reconnect and savour an intimate escape".

The Candle Experience begins flickering light as hundreds of LED candles bathe your hotel room in a soft glow.

The air is perfumed with the Signature Sofitel fragrance, a blend of bergamot, white rose and sandalwood, while a curated Devialet soundscape envelops guests in high-fidelity calm.

With a bottle of Pommery Champagne chilled and waiting, and specially crafted festive treats, your suite "becomes a private stage for an unforgettable shared moment".

“The Candle Experience is Sofitel's invitation to experience luxury as a sanctuary - a moment of peace and presence,” says Nicolas Gronier, a global brand experience leader.

Every Candle Experience includes a room filled with candles, the signature Sofitel Scent and a bottle of Pommery Champagne, with a high-tech Devialat speaker in-room offering a soundscape. 

Each participating Sofitel then adds its own touch. The experience is ultra-exclusive, with only one Candle Experience Suite available per hotel per night, so guests are encouraged to book early.

Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour offers the Candle Experience, along with chocolate-coated strawberries for $250 on top of your room rate.

At Sofitel Sydney Wentworth the experience is $199 and includes the Candle Experience, a box of Christmas-themed chocolates and a Sofitel Candle to take home.

Sofitel Queenstown also offers the Candle Experience for $250 NZD on top of the room rate.

Celebrating Tasmania and its seasonal bounty

 

Tasmania is renowned for hosting several outstanding festivals.

Events like Taste of Summer, Festivale and Dark Mofo are all major drawcards.

Less commercial and more connected, ECHO is the East Coast Harvest Odyssey festival, a smaller. more focussed "festival of the senses" that will run from March 13-15 in 2026.

The brainchild of singer and gin-brand owner Ange Boxall, ECHO has grown from small beginnings in 2019 into an event that Boxall describes as being "all about connection".

 


The event launch was held today in Hobart and full details are now available at echofestival.com.au.

ECHO is a festival of storytelling with close connections to First Nations culture, but also indigenous food experiences, hands-on adventures and music.

There is also plenty of wine, with several local producers involved - Spring Vale, Gala Estate, Mayfield Estate and Craigie Knowe among them - as well as Boxall's Spirited Gin brand.

From bush foods and medicine to morning yoga and drinks masterclasses, ECHO showcases live music, art, culture, storytelling and knowledge-sharing. It is a celebration both of harvest and the laid-back East Coast lifestyle.

"Our theme, Layers: Woven in Time, celebrates the people, stories and landscapes that give the East Coast its unique rhythm," says Boxall (below, at the launch).

 

"This year’s early program release features coastal storytelling with surf legend Dustin Hollick, woodworking using rare Hydrowood timbers, a cultural creative space with palawa creative Melissa West, blacksmithing in a historic forge and more.

"The music line-up brings together a powerful mix of emerging voices and established artists from Tasmania and beyond. Across intimate stages and open coastal spaces, musicians will share original sounds rooted in place, story and community. Expect soaring vocals, rhythmic collaborations and atmospheric performances that echo the landscape itself."

The much-loved Native Bounty Feast will also return as the key element of the opening evening.

ECHO, held in Swansea. is supported by the Tasmanian Government through Events Tasmania.

See https://tickets.oztix.com.au/outlet/event/90c6baf5-d569-408a-bc77-91650ed7ff7b

Discover a new vineyard escape on the Great Ocean Road

 

Want to be among the first to check out chic new vineyard accommodation along the Great Ocean Road?

Basalt Retreat has just opened bookings for its new vineyard villas set among the vines of its 24-year-old near Port Fairy, where it grows pinot noir, tempranillo and riesling.

If you are looking for a gourmet-accented adults-only escape along the Great Ocean Road, these two villas - Pinot Noir and Tempranillo - might fit the bill.

Basalt's tasting room and eatery have proven popular with visitors, who can now, for the first time, stay for a few nights. 

Each villa stay includes a Queen bed with cloud-soft premium bedding; a selection of locally sourced snacks, wines and small-batch spirits; indoor fireplace for cooler evenings; a locally sourced breakfast hamper; kettle, toaster and coffee machine; a barbecue overlooking the vines and an in-room supper menu (pre-order required). 

Guests get a complimentary wine tasting at the cellar door and priority dining reservations. 

Villas cost from $495 per night with a two-night minimum stay, although one-night stays are available Sunday through Thursday.

"After years of dreaming, planning and careful craftsmanship, our boutique vineyard villas are now open for bookings," says vigneron/patron Shane Clancey. 

"Nestled within the vines of our 24-year-old vineyard, these architect-designed villas offer a rare experience on the Great Ocean Road. This is a retreat created for stillness, connection and quiet indulgence." 

It has been a while since I visited but Basalt is a delightful destination in a lovely location. 

For details see https://www.basaltwines.com.au/stay/

We’re thrilled to share something truly special. After years of dreaming, planning and careful craftsmanship, our boutique vineyard villas — Basalt Retreat — are now open for bookings. Nestled within the vines of our 24-year-old vineyard, these architect-designed villas offer a rare experience on the Great Ocean Road: a luxury stay immersed in nature, shaped by vineyard life, and made for slow, grounding moments. Wake to soft coastal light drifting through the vines. Settle in for long, Mediterranean-inspired lunches at the cellar door. Savour a glass of Pinot Noir on your private deck as the sun melts over the farm. This is a retreat created for stillness, connection and quiet indulgence.

Vietnam resorts target quick recovery after natural disasters

Some of Vietnam's leading tourist destination are racing to be ready for high season after after weeks of relentless rain and flooding.

The weather left historic cities in Central Vietnam submerged, mountain passes closed by landslides, and at least 55 people dead across six provinces, news hub Travel Mole reports.

As waters finally began to recede in parts of the region over the weekend, the scale of the devastation became clear. 

The popular city of Hoi An has been flooded three times within a month time.

The ancient UNESCO-listed town saw layers of mud coating its once-bustling walking streets after floodwaters retreated from the Hoai River.

Clean-up crews, armed with excavators and water tankers, fanned out across the town to scrape away sludge from sidewalks and shopfronts.

The middle section of popular Bach Dang Street, however, remained under about 40 centimetres of water.

Authorities have prioritized clearing the stretch from Chau Thuong Van to the iconic Pagoda Bridge to bring visitors back as quickly as possible.

Tourist boats continued to operate along the Hoai River even as workers raked mud into piles, removed debris, and pushed it back toward the river channel.

In coastal Nha Trang, entire neighbourhoods were submerged last week,

Deadly landslides ripped through highland routes near the Da Lat tourist hub, where hotel operators said bookings evaporated almost overnight as storms intensified.

Viet Nam Railways Corporation (VNR) on Friday announced the continued suspension of multiple passenger services departing from Hanoi, Danang and Ho Chi Minh City, as widespread flooding in the south-central region persists.

International airports were operating normally despite some flight delays.

The environment ministry said 55 people have died, with 13 still missing. More than 300,000 people remained without power over the weekend.

Image: Hoi An, Shirren Lee, Scop.io  

Ditch the pyjamas: American flyers told they need to dress better

Sean Duffy, the US secretary of transportation, doesn't want to punish airlines for cancelling flights or running late; but he does want passengers to dress smarter.

Duffy, you guessed it, is a Donald Trump appointee who clearly favours big business over the Average Joe.

Duffy this week kicked off a new "civility" campaign week that he calls “The Golden Age of Travel Starts With You”. the New York Times reports. 

The campaign came with a 1960s-parody public service announcement that spliced together scenes of the country’s early air travellers, dressed in suits and hats, along with present-day clips of in-flight brawls and airport meltdowns.

In the background, Frank Sinatra sings “Come Fly With Me”.

 
The Transportation Department’s accompanying news release chastised fliers for forgetting to say “please” and “thank you” and for not helping older or pregnant passengers put their bags in the overhead bins.

“Are you dressing with respect?” asks the video. “Are you keeping control of your children?”

Data does back up the feeling that travellers in the US have become more unruly. 

Since 2019, the Federal Aviation Authority has reported a 400% increase of in-flight outbursts - ranging from disruptive behaviour to violence in the air. 

Duffy thinks getting passengers to dress better is one of the keys to reducing incidents. 

 

"Are you helping a pregnant woman or the elderly with placing their bags in the overhead bin?" he asks. "Are you dressing with respect?

"Are you keeping control of your children and helping them through the airport?

"Are you saying thank you to your flight attendants?

"Are you saying please and thank you in general?"

Sound like Americans need classes in how to behave like adult human beings. 

"Bringing civility back, I think, enhances the travel experience for everybody,” Duffy told Fox News. “Let’s maybe go back to an era where we didn’t wear our pajamas to the airport.”

While there is no doubt flying bogans are on the rise it is hard not to see the irony in taking advice on etiquette from a man whose boss likes to grab women "by the pussy", tells reporters to be "Quiet Piggy!" and how thinks his political opponents' opinions are "Punishable by Death".

 

And, unfortunately, the "dress better" initiative came just a few days after a Duffy decision to scrap a proposal that would have required airlines to compensate passengers for significant travel disruptions within carriers’ control. 

So airlines will not be held accountable for improving customer service.

* Sean Duffy is an American politician, attorney, and former television presenter who has been US secretary of transportation since January, 2025. 

Image: Erica Vigilante, Scop.io

Kirkton Park aims to bring some romance to the Hunter

The Hunter Valley is renowned for its fine food and wine but voco by IHG Kirkton Park wants to add some romance to the mix. 

Set on a 70-acre estate with rolling lawns and mountain views, the hotel has unveiled Beneath the Roses, a collection of romantic experiences created for couples who want to "reconnect in nature, surrounded by beauty and calm".

The hero experience is a private floral dining dome in the rose garden. 

Guests can start with a slow wander through the gardens, then settle in for high tea or a three-course dinner created by the Locavore Restaurant team, where estate-to-plate flavours take the lead.

They can make a night of it with the Dine Amongst the Roses package which sees couples enjoy country accommodation and breakfast for two, along with a rose-inspired treat set that includes a locally made Hunter Valley soap, a bottle of First Creek Cuvée and a macaron and strawberry tasting plate scattered with rose petals. 

Summer is peak time in the garden with the estate promoted as being ideal for "slow walks and long conversations". Presumably not about rugby league. 

Just a short drive away, Hunter Valley Gardens offers another floral experience, with its Rose Garden and seasonal displays. 

Overnight packages start from $495 per night and including accommodation for two, and breakfast for two at Locavore Restaurant, along with a choice of high tea or romantic three-course dinner in the floral dome, and treat sets. 

  

See https://huntervalley.vocohotels.com/

Global recognition for Sequoia Lodge in the Adelaide Hills

Luxury property Sequoia Lodge in the Adelaide Hills is the latest Australian property to be accepted into the exclusive Relais & Chateaux group, which represents 580 independently operated hotels and restaurants around the globe.

Relais & Chateaux recognises privately owned  top-notch hotels and restaurants.

Sequoia Lodge's custodians, South Australian hotelier David Horbelt and his family, together with business partner Malcolm Bean, developed the bijou lodge on the grounds of the historic Mount Lofty Estate, opening in August 2021.

Horbelt said Sequoia Lodge expanded on the story of the 175-year-old Mount Lofty Estate with 14 luxury suites offering 180-degree views of the vineyard of the Piccadilly Valley and "a level of opulence enhanced by exemplary personalised service and fine dining".

“The Lodge and its offering were born from our passion and deep connection with the beauty and history of the Adelaide Hills and the enduring hospitality story of Mount Lofty Estate, building on the much-awarded offering that Malcolm and I developed at Mount Lofty House,” he said.

“Surrounded by thousands of hectares of national parks and botanical gardens, Sequoia's guests connect not only with the land, but with its people through luxury bespoke experiences that celebrate our local artisans and produce.

“The Sequoia team's mission is to give guests an unparalleled journey of discovery of the Adelaide Hills' iconic food, wine, wellness, history and nature experiences through in-house dining and while exploring the region."

Each suite has a sunken lounge room featuring a stone-clad fireplace, a spa-retreat bathroom, and moon window allowing guests to sleep under the sky on a custom-made bed.

Artesian spring-fed pools, an infinity pool and a wildlife enclosure are within the lodge grounds. 

More information see sequoialodge.com.au.

# Established in 1954, Relais & Chateaux comprises a collection of 580 hotels and restaurants throughout the world, operated by independent owners.

See www.relaischateaux.com