Travel
Tiny European city reveals plans to become ‘major tourist hotspot’ with £6million revamp and new attractions
A NEW £5.8million investment is set to drive tourists to Ireland’s smallest city thanks to a host of exciting new attractions.
Back in April, Fáilte Ireland, the National Tourism Development Authority of Ireland, announced a five-year plan to revamp Kilkenny.
Located in County Kilkenny in South-East Ireland, holidaymakers often visit the tiny Irish city on a day trip from Dublin.
However, tourists may soon be planning to stay longer in the city thanks to the multi-million-pound development project.
The revamp will look to the city’s history, pubs and ties to hurling to promote Kilkenny as a major tourist destination in Ireland.
As part of the plan, Medieval Mile, a discovery trail in the city will be reimagined, with £1.2m being used to build the Museum of Medieval Kilkenny.
The Museum of Medieval Kilkenny will become a central point for the redevelopment of Medieval Mile and a key tourist attraction in the city.
Kilkenny’s redevelopment will also make use of the River Barrow, the River Nore, and the River Suir, also known as the Three Sisters Rivers.
The Three Sisters Rivers will become a prime place for urban and rural outdoor activity experiences – although it is not yet known that these experiences will be.
Other attractions are also being considered like a world-class creative animation visitor experience.
This visitor experience will build on Kilkenny’s heritage as a home to creative artists.
The project is being funded by Fáilte Ireland and Kilkenny County Council who will pump £5.9m into the refurb.
Earlier this year, Paul Kelly, the boss of Fáilte Ireland said: “This five-year Destination and Experience Development Plan captures the unique themes that are central to Kilkenny and features key priority projects which will transform the tourism offering across the region.
“The development of the River Barrow Tourism Masterplan, reimagination of the Medieval Mile, and building on Kilkenny’s cultural and creative heritage will strengthen Kilkenny’s position as an internationally compelling destination in Ireland’s Ancient East.
It is not yet known when any of the attractions will open to the public.
OTHER KILKENNY ATTRACTIONS
Until the revamp is completed in five years’ time, there are still plenty of things to do in Kilkenny.
One of the main tourist attractions is Kilkenny Castle, which was built in the 12th century.
The Irish castle was remodelled in the Victorian Era and was taken over by the Irish State in 1969.
Nowadays, Kilkenny Castle welcomes thousands of visitors each year who want to see the library, drawing room, nursery and bedrooms decorated in 1830s splendour
Other attractions include St. Canice’s Cathedral and Round Tower, Rothe House and Garden and the The Black Abbey.
Beer enthusiasts will want to check out Smithwick’s Experience where they can go on a brewery tour and sample some Irish ale.
A Short History of Kilkenny
Evidence of human settlement in the Kilkenny area dates back to prehistoric times.
In the 12th century, the city grew rapidly with the construction of significant buildings such as St. Canice’s Cathedral and the Black Abbey.
Between the 14th and 16th centuries, the Irish city became an important centre for trade.
It also played a significant role during the Confederate Wars (1641-1653).
The Kilkenny Confederation, a governing body of Irish Catholics, was established here in 1642, making the city a temporary capital. Kilkenny Castle was besieged by Oliver Cromwell’s forces in 1650.
Kilkenny experienced economic growth and urban development in the 18th century, with the construction of new buildings and improvements in infrastructure.
In more recent years, the city saw renewed growth and development with a focus on its rich heritage to promote tourism.
Earlier this year, plans were put forward to transform London Waterloo – the third busiest train station in the UK.
The proposals detailed new entrances, increased space on the station’s concourses and new shops and restaurants.
Travel
Make Halepuna Waikiki by Halekulani Your Home Away from Home in Honolulu
Halepuna Waikiki
With its crescent beach framed by iconic state monument Diamond Head, Waikiki has captivated visitors for decades and inspired countless dreams of the islands—a slice of tropical paradise whose magic never fades. In fact, the postcard-beautiful city of Honolulu itself remains a timeless destination where the allure of 1960s Hawaii—a place of Mai Tais and Aloha spirit—still lingers if you know where to look and stay. So, should a serene retreat a block from the Waikiki bustle appeal, consider Halepuna Waikiki by Halekulani or “The House of Welcoming Waters.” Named after a nearby fresh water source where Hawaiian Royalty once came to bathe and relax, the 284-room boutique hotel underwent a multimillion-dollar renovation by New York City-based interior design firm Champalimaud, officially opening in 2019, but after a brief Pandemic pause reopened in 2021.
‘Falls’ by artist John Okulick
In addition to a showstopping floral centerpiece, which is created new each week by the hotel’s in-house florist, the elegant kanso-style lobby (rooted in traditional Japanese aesthetics, kanso emphasizes minimalism and functional beauty) also reveals pieces from Halepuna Waikiki’s impressive public art program. Look for mixed-media installation Fallsby John Okulick near the Helumoa entrance and abstract oil on canvas Composition by one of Hawaii’s most accomplished artists, Tadashi Sato, beside the front desk. Surf and underwater prints by Hawaii-based photographers, including John Hook and Wayne Levin, also feature across guest rooms and suites.
Location, Location, Location
The hotel is steps from Waikiki Beach
City breaks and beach vacations are two distinct travel experiences, but Halepuna Waikiki blends the best of both worlds beautifully with the stylish sophistication of an urban hotel and idyllic atmosphere of a tropical resort. Central yet tucked away from it all between Helumoa and Kalia Roads on the east side of Waikiki, it’s located directly across the street from sister property, the iconic Halekulani Hotel, where guests enjoy several reciprocal privileges (although more on those in a moment). The setting lends itself perfectly no matter what your focus – whether that’s getting those feet in the sand or exploring boutiques and restaurants along the nearby Waikiki Beach Walk promenade and glossy Royal Hawaiian Center.
Chic Rooms & Suites
Check into an ocean view room
Featuring plenty of refined elements inspired by its wonder-of-nature setting, guest rooms at Halepuna are elegant affairs defined by clean, minimalist lines and a palette of crisp whites, blue ombre tones, and warm wood accents. Categories range from standard to mountain, ocean, and deluxe ocean and come with full or partial balconies. The hotel’s most requested accommodation is its Grand Ocean Suite (2302) on the top floor, which boasts a connecting lanai and the largest bathroom in the entire building, plus superb Pacific Ocean views from every window. Regardless of which room you check into, though, beds are neatly made up with Mascioni Elba Italian sheets, while luxurious marble bathrooms are equipped with deep soaking tubs, Japanese Toto washlets, and SpaHalekulani bath products. You’ll also find a decent-sized fridge, tea kettle and coffee machine. For a perfect first morning, slip into your Halepuna bathrobe, pop a K-cup in the Keurig, raise the remote-controlled window shades, and watch the waves breaking on Waikiki Beach from your balcony before breakfast.
There’s Destination Dining
Tuck into French-inspired pastries at Halekulani Bakery…
And with two ‘when in Waikiki’ dining venues under its roof, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to breakfast. If the Keurig doesn’t appeal, make Halekulani Bakery your first port of call for a morning brew. Located next door to the Halepuna lobby (on Kalia Road) and open from 6:30 am Wednesday through Sunday, guests from both hotels line up early for the mouth-watering array of French-style pastries (try the Pabana Croissant, filled with a lightly sweetened lilikoi, mango and banana cream), artisan breads and specialty coffees. Many of the ingredients used here are sourced from across the Hawaiian Islands, and it’s not unusual for items to sell out before mid-morning. Savories and sandwiches are available to-go and are perfect for a picnic lunch later at the beach or grab a slice of the Halekulani Hotel’s famous coconut cake to enjoy later with a cup of tea.
For a more leisurely sit-down affair, linger over breakfast on at least one morning at Halepuna’s fine-dining establishment, UMI by Vikram Garg. Its dining room showcases several multimedia works by artist Taiji Terasaki, with the most striking piece being Gratitude for Oceans, a large-scale artwork on Japanese shoji paper that includes an augmented reality component best viewed through Terasaki’s Instagram filter. Garg’s inventive take on Indian cuisine has made him a firm favorite among Honolulu foodies for years, and while his dinner menu celebrates the ‘bounty from the sea,’ during breakfast, dishes like the ‘Mai Tai’ Pancake, topped with caramelized pineapple and a rum coconut essence is a guest favorite. The masala omelet and umi fried rice are excellent choices on the savory side, but a small plate of locally grown pineapple with Hawaiian salt is a refreshing palate cleanser.
or sit down to breakfast at UMI by Vikram Garg
And an Elegant Pool Deck
Relax beside the 8th floor Vitality Pool
After a long flight or day of sightseeing, Halepuna’s eighth-floor Vitality Pool provides a serene and tranquil space to unwind. At its center, an infinity lap-style swimming pool flanked by luxury cabanas, sun loungers, and a jacuzzi – order cocktails like the Puna Mai Tai and small plates from the poolside bar, or sit back and take in those ocean views. The hotel’s well-equipped fitness studio and open-air lana’i garden (which features a reflexology path designed to stimulate the feet while balancing mind and body) are also located here. Functional fitness and movement classes are held every morning at 8 am (except Wednesdays) and range from an energizing stretch session to cardio and strength training on the beach.
Plus, Stellar Guest Perks
The hotel’s public art program features commissioned works by local artists, but Halepuna encourages its guests to explore art and culture across town too, and one of several exclusive perks is complimentary entrance to the Bishop Museum and The Honolulu Museum of Art (present your room key upon entry for free admission). And if ridesharing doesn’t suit your style, then try the exclusive Tesla Experience at Halepuna. In partnership with Envoy Hawaii, the program provides an opportunity to rent the latest Tesla Model Y or Model X by the hour, day, or week, giving plenty of flexible options to suit your needs – whether that’s museum-hopping around Honolulu or heading up to Oahu’s North Shore for the day.
Catch a Hula show at House Without A Key…
One of the toniest guest perks at Halepuna Waikiki has to be access to top-tier amenities across the street at sister property Halekulani, including its recently refreshed and stunning SpaHalekulani. Originally opened in 1907 as a rustic bungalow-style hotel, whose name means “House Befitting Heaven,” it was one of the first in Waikiki and quickly became a favorite among well-heeled travelers and famous names of the day, including Clark Gable and Doris Duke. Fronting Gray’s Beach and framed by dreamy views of Diamond Head, today it’s home to some of Honolulu’s most coveted dining and entertainment experiences, like open-air restaurant House Without A Key.
Named for author Earl Derr Biggers’ 1925 murder mystery “House Without a Key,” live Hawaiian music and hula dancing by former Miss Hawaii and Miss Hawaii-USA winners are performed every evening under the beloved 135-year-old Kiawe tree. Best enjoyed with pupus and sunset cocktails, like the signature mai tai, although the new list by the hotel’s talented mixology director Tuda Sarian has plenty of tempting creations, including a Coconut Cake Martini inspired Halekulani’s famous confection. For an after-dinner nightcap and live jazz, head inside the hotel to Lewers Lounge around 8 p.m., an ideal time to snag a table at this hidden gem cocktail lounge that transports you to 1920s Manhattan. Inspired by some of jazz’s most iconic entertainers, the list features sophisticated, spirit-forward creations such as Smoke Rings – a nod to “King of Soul” Sam Cooke, composed with Whistle Pig Piggyback 6-Year Rye, Amaro Angeleno, and grapefruit bitters with a cherry wood smoke garnish – that makes a perfect late-night sipper.
Room rates at the Halepuna Waikiki by Halekulani range from $350 per night and suites start at $1,100 with no resort fees; halepuna.com.
and stop by Lewers Lounge for live jazz and cocktails © Justin Alford
Travel
Premier Inn to open its largest hub hotel in the UK – with 693 rooms
PLANS for a new hub by Premier Inn hotel are underway and it’s set to be the largest one in the UK to date.
Whitbread, the owner of Premier Inn, has just received planning permission to build the hotel, which will be located at 5 Strand in London.
The 693-room hotel will be a couple of doors down from Charing Cross Station and within sight of Nelson’s Column and Trafalgar Square.
There is currently a partially demolished office block on the site, which is located opposite the Co-Op on the Strand.
The new Premier Inn isn’t the first hotel development to be proposed on the site – it was previously earmarked for a 200-room Park Hyatt Hotel, with a rooftop bar and restaurant.
Instead, it will now become home to the latest London property under Whitbread’s hub by Premier Inn brand.
hub by Premier Inn is a hotel concept from the company that offers stylish, compact rooms in central locations in London and Edinburgh.
It was launched in 2013 and the first hotel opened in Covent Garden in 2014.
The brand has since grown to 18 hotels across London and Edinburgh.
Other hub by Premier Inn hotels in London are located in Camden, Bank, Clerkenwell, Goodge Street, Kings Cross, Marylebone, Paddington, Shoreditch, Soho, Brick Lane, Tower Bridge, West Brompton, Westmister Abbey, and St James’s Park.
Rooms are designed to be comfortable, convenient, and consistent with Premier Inn, but in a smaller package.
They include a touchscreen control panel for lighting and temperature, 40″ smart TVs, high-powered showers, and beds.
Some rooms have windows, but some are window-free.
The new 16,000 sqm development will feature 13 floors including ground floor space fronting onto the Strand and Northumberland Street.
Mark Anderson, managing director for property and international for Whitbread, said: “Hub by Premier Inn was launched a decade ago in St Martin’s Lane, a few hundred metres from 5 Strand.
“The brand has blossomed into a network of 18 popular hub hotels in Central London and Edinburgh and has become a proven model for bringing our affordable bedrooms into the most central, vibrant, and connected locations for our guests.
“5 Strand is an excellent example of how we think the hub by Premier Inn brand can evolve in Central London. It also shows how we can use Whitbread’s strong balance sheet to acquire the best positioned, most accessible, and high-demand locations in the capital to grow our brands.
“With planning permission now secured we will move quickly to begin construction of the new hotel and deliver a true flagship location for our guests.”
Whitbread recently announced plans for a 207-room hub by Premier Inn property within a “under-utilised” car parking space under The Brunswick Centre in London’s Bloomsbury.
The group said the hotel’s rooms, reception and communal guest areas will feature “cutting edge lighting technology which provides a natural spectrum of light following the human circadian rhythm”.
‘I stayed at the largest Premier Inn in the UK…this is what I thought’
Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey stayed at Premier Inn at Gatwick Airport, located just outside the North Terminal…
The Premier Inn hotel is literal steps from the Gatwick shuttle – just take the lift down and cross the road and it is right in front of you.
Celebrating its 10th-anniversary last year, it’s currently undergoing some new room refurbishments.
The hotel is open 24/7, due to its nature as an airport hotel, but has more than 10 self-check-in booths for a speedy rush to your room, although the four very slow lifts leave something to be desired if you are in a rush.
With 701 bedrooms, I ended up in their brand new Premier Plus rooms, found on the ninth ‘quieter’ floor, which was very clean.
I had great views of the airport, so I could watch some of the planes take off.
There is also a Nespresso coffee machine and kettle with chocolates, a large shower with toiletries and towels and a mini-
There is also a Nespresso coffee machine and kettle with chocolates, a large shower with toiletries and towels and a mini-fridge with complimentary water.
Plus unlike many hotels, they’d placed a USB socket near the bed, so you don’t have to worry if you forget your plug.
The rooms weren’t perfect – the WiFi didn’t seem to stretch to the top of the hotel – but they are definitely worth the extra £10 for some added luxury.
The hotel is often full so I had to book dinner and breakfast in advance as it gets busy.
But it has a range of classic comfort food options, including burgers, pizza and curries.
I opted for a lasagne, followed by a brownie with a glass of wine.
They didn’t have everything listed – they were bizarrely out of avocado, French dressing and naans, but there is more than enough to choose from even if your favourite isn’t there.
Like all airport travellers, I was mainly there to get a decent night’s kip and with the black-out curtains and barely any noise seeping through the walls – it passed with flying colours.
Travel
European destination named top holiday spot for 2025 is so close you can you reach it by ferry
A FRENCH region has been revealed as one of the must-visit places for next year – and a ferry from England can get you there in just over five hours.
Brittany in France has made the list of trending destinations for 2025, with distinctive culture, coastal scenery, and miles of seaside walking paths on offer for visitors.
The list of places was put together by American Express based on card member travel bookings and expertise from its global network of travel consultants.
France’s northwestern most region has been growing in popularity in recent years, particularly because of its beautiful sandy beaches, secluded coves, and rocky formations.
One beach that’s proven popular among holidaymakers because of its long stretch of sandy beach, stunning views, and tranquil waters is Plage de Tahiti.
Backed by pines, the beach is wide enough to feel spacious even in the busiest seasons.
And the sand is soft, very nearly white, with sea that often sparkles turquoise.
Brittany is also a popular destination for walking and hiking, with over 10,000 kilometres of signposted routes.
The GR34 is the most famous walking route – a 388-mile trail that runs along the north coast.
Also known as the Customs Officers’ Path, it features cliffs, beaches, fishing villages, and seaside resorts.
It’s suitable for moderately fit walkers and the best time to hike it is in late Spring and early Autumn.
Known as the jewel of southern Brittany is the Quiberon Peninsula, with wild coastline that stretches over 30 kilometres.
The peninsula has around 19 beaches, including Fort Neuf beach, Porigo beach, Saint Pierre-Quiberon beach, Castéro beach, and Saint Julien beach, and it’s one of the best places to enjoy water sports.
Sea fishing, sailing, sand yachting, sea kayaking, and kite surfing are all popular here.
But if you prefer to stay on land, there are plenty of walking and cycling routes to enjoy.
Mont-Saint-Michel is one of the region’s most famous attractions, located in the bay shared by Normandy and Brittany.
There’s a medieval abbey with striking architecture and panoramic views of the bay, and the village’s narrow, cobblestone streets are lined with shops, cafes and restaurants.
One of the best ways to get to Mont Saint-Michel is by ferry, from the Saint-Malo or Granville ferry terminals.
Ferry is a popular option for travelling to Brittany from the UK – although the time it takes to travel depends on the route and ferry you take.
Brittany Ferries travel from Plymouth to Roscoff in 5 hours and 15 minutes and Portsmouth to St-Malo 10 to 12 hours overnight.
Or you can travel on Condor Ferries from Poole to St-Malo in 6 hours and 20 minutes.
Amex’s Trending Destinations list was put together with Millennial and Gen Z travellers in mind.
A study conducted by the company found 72 percent of Millennial and Gen Z travellers are more likely to book hotels that offer credit card rewards and 70 percent are interested in a credit card with a collection of hotel benefits across the world.
As such, American Express Travel has added new benefits and expanded its Hotel Collection to include more properties in destinations Card Members are visiting.
The collection includes upscale hotels located near city centres, popular tourist attractions, great restaurants, and active nightlife.
2025 Trending Destinations list
Brisbane, Australia – located between the Gold and Sunshine Coasts, Brisbane offers excellent museums as well as vibrant dining and nightlife.
Brittany France – Distinctive culture, coastal scenery and miles of seaside walking paths like the GR34 trail top the list of reasons to visit the Brittany region.
Franschhoek, South Africa – Franschhoek, the mountain-ringed gem in the Cape Winelands region, is an ideal add-on to a safari vacation with nearly 50 wineries, farm-to-table restaurants and hiking.
Koh Samui, Thailand – 88-square-mile Koh Samui offers a dreamy combo of lush jungle, white sand beaches, and turquoise waters, perfect for active travelers or those looking to relax. The island will be featured on a popular TV show scheduled to air next year and is sure to inspire set-jetting travelers.
Macau, China – Though The Historic Centre of Macau enjoys UNESCO World Heritage status, and the local Cantonese-Portuguese fusion cuisine is a must-try for foodies, the supersized casinos are the reason this densely populated peninsula, known as the “Las Vegas of the East,” boasts a number of award-winning restaurants.
Moab, United States – As the gateway to Utah’s “Mighty Five” national parks, Moab is a perfect starting point to explore the American Southwest. Travelers come for world-class rafting, mountain biking, and canyon hiking – or simply to bask in the red rock scenery.
Nikko, Japan – This tucked away mountain retreat in mostly rural Tochigi prefecture blends elements of Kyoto and Mt. Fuji, with photogenic waterfalls and abundant hiking trails.
Paros, Greece – Laid-back Paros has become the Greek island of choice for many with a vibrant cultural scene and rocky coastline studded with beaches, secluded coves, and sea caves.
São Paulo, Brazil – This multi-ethnic city is one of the great cultural destinations of South America and home to rich architectural heritage and some of the continent’s best museums, street art, and homegrown fashion.
Sun Valley, Idaho, United States – With fewer crowds than other Western ski resorts, Sun Valley appeals to premium travellers and everyday outdoor enthusiasts alike. During the summer months travellers can enjoy trout fishing, whitewater rafting, mountain biking and more.
Additionally, when Gold and Platinum Card Members book two or more nights at these hotels through Amex Travel, they are eligible to receive a room upgrade upon arrival, 12 PM early check-in, and late check-out up to 4 PM (all subject to availability and certain room categories are not eligible for upgrade).
These benefits are in addition to a complimentary credit valued at $100 (around £76) to use towards eligible charges, which may include food and beverage, spa, or other on-property charges (eligible charges vary by property).
For more details, visit the Amex website.
Travel
European airlines to increase hidden costs for passengers – with seats to be more expensive
SEVERAL airlines in Europe are set to bump up the price of their hidden costs with UK holidaymakers impacted by the measure.
British holidaymakers will be affected as UK routes won’t be an exception in the hike.
The Lufthansa Group covers Lufthansa, Eurowings Discover, Austrian Airlines, Brussels Airlines, Swiss and Air Dolomiti.
And from the start of this month, Austrian Airlines, Lufthansa and Swiss raised the cost of seat reservation prices.
Seat reservation prices aren’t often included in the initial price, making them a hidden charge to customers.
Most economy class passengers travelling on short-haul flights won’t be affected by the measure, with seat reservations for “regular seats” remaining free of charge.
However, anyone who wants to book certain seats like an extra legroom seat will now need to pay.
Meanwhile, holidaymakers flying on an Economy Light Fare on short and medium-haul flights will need to pay to have their assigned seat changed.
This means passengers will be issued an assigned seat for free but will have to pay for any changes.
A Lufthansa spokesperson has said assigned seats can be changed at an airport desk without a charge.
Those passengers travelling on medium and long-haul flights will also pay a fee if they want to pick their seats.
Just like on short-haul routes, seats will be assigned for free but holidaymakers will pay to change their seat reservation.
This amount will not be fixed. Instead, it will be based on factors like a passenger’s route and the type of seat they’d like to book, such as a regular seat compared to an extra legroom seat.
The cost of seat reservations will start at €14 (£11.70) but cost as much as €115 (£97) for economy passengers travelling on long-haul services.
Families travelling with children and groups of holidaymakers on a joint booking will be seated together where possible.
Earlier this year German carrier Lufthansa also increased the price of its flights by up to £60 in a bid to cover new EU regulations.
Lufthansa introduced an environmental charge of up to £60 to its fares.
Holidaymakers now have to splurge extra when flying from EU countries as well as Britain, Norway and Switzerland.
The increase will be effective as early as Wednesday but will cover flights starting from January 1, 2025, onwards.
EU regulations force airlines to use more sustainable jet fuel in a bid to reduce emissions, and subsequently, drive up costs.
The German airline said: “The surcharge is intended to cover part of the steadily rising additional costs due to regulatory environmental requirements.”
It comes as flight experts have warned travellers that plane tickets will likely skyrocket this summer.
A group of aviation industry leaders have revealed that worldwide inflation and jet fuel costs are significant factors in the price hike.
Earlier this year, Lufthansa has launched a new airline with routes across Europe, including Hanover, Düsseldorf, Bordeaux and Birmingham.
Holidaymakers in Birmingham will be able to fly directly to Munich when the new route takes to the skies tomorrow.
It comes after the German carrier scrapped all of its flights to a popular UK airport in February.
Lufthansa only started running flights between Liverpool’s John Lennon Airport and Frankfurt in May 2022.
Flight compensation rules
A look at your rights if a flight is delayed or cancelled, when your entitled to compensation and if your travel insurance can cover the costs.
What are my rights if my flight is cancelled or delayed?
Under UK law, airlines have to provide compensation if your flight arrives at its destination more than three hours late.
If you’re flying to or from the UK, your airline must let you choose a refund or an alternative flight.
You will be able to get your money back for the part of your ticket that you haven’t used yet.
So if you booked a return flight and the outbound leg is cancelled, you can get the full cost of the return ticket refunded.
But if travelling is essential, then your airline has to find you an alternative flight. This could even be with another airline.
When am I not entitled to compensation?
The airline doesn’t have to give you a refund if the flight was cancelled due to reasons beyond their control, such as extreme weather.
Disruptions caused by things like extreme weather, airport or air traffic control employee strikes or other ‘extraordinary circumstances’ are not eligible for compensation.
Some airlines may stretch the definition of “extraordinary circumstances” but you can challenge them through the aviation regulator the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).
Will my insurance cover me if my flight is cancelled?
If you can’t claim compensation directly through the airline, your travel insurance may refund you.
Policies vary so you should check the small print, but a delay of eight to 12 hours will normally mean you qualify for some money from your insurer.
Remember to get written confirmation of your delay from the airport as your insurer will need proof.
If your flight is cancelled entirely, you’re unlikely to be covered by your insurance.
However, the route was scrapped, despite an increase in the number of flights between the two airports in the summer of 2023.
Meanwhile, Lufthansa will also be introducing “business class style” economy seats without the hefty price tag.
Travel
Japan Airlines rolls out free inflight wifi
The oneworld member also just celebrated five years of A350 operations
Continue reading Japan Airlines rolls out free inflight wifi at Business Traveller.
Travel
Dubai travel warning: How the Israel-Hamas war is affecting UAE flights
AMID the chaos of the escalating conflict in the Middle East, several flights to and from Dubai have been cancelled or delayed.
Here we take a look at whether it is safe to travel to the area, which airlines are affected and how flight paths have changed so far.
Are flights going to and from Dubai?
Flights are still operating to and from Dubai, but with significant disruptions due to the spiralling regional tensions.
Dubai International Airport, the world’s busiest for international travel, is experiencing cancellations and delays.
Airlines cancelling and diverting flights
Several major airlines have been affected:
- Emirates cancelled all flights to and from Iraq, Iran and Jordan between Wednesday, October 2, 2024 and Saturday, October 5.
- Flydubai has also cancelled flights to these destinations.
- Emirates has suspended routes to and from Beirut until Tuesday, October 8, while Flydubai has suspended them until Monday, October 7.
- British Airways, Lufthansa and Swiss Air have diverted flights headed to Dubai and other Middle Eastern destinations.
- Etihad Airways is rerouting flights and warning of likely delays and cancellations.
Safety of travelling to Dubai
The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) does not advise against travel to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), including Dubai.
However, they recommend staying vigilant, stating: “Terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in the UAE”.
The FCDO further advises: “Ongoing hostilities between Israel and Lebanon could escalate quickly and pose risks for the wider region. Monitor this travel advice and other media as the situation is changing fast”.
They also note that “Military activity in the Red Sea area” poses a security risk, with the “possibility that Travel Advice for nearby countries could change at short notice”.
Changes in flight paths
Flight paths changed significantly on Tuesday, October 1, 2024. Here are the diversions which were put in place:
- Many flights avoided airspace over Iran, Israel, Jordan, Iraq and Lebanon.
- Airlines diverted flights through alternative routes, which led to longer flight times.
- Traffic became dense over Istanbul, Cairo, and Antalya as flights rerouted to avoid certain areas.
- Some flights took wide arcs to the north and south to avoid affected airspace.
- These diversions added several hours to flight times.
According to FlightRadar, 81 flights were diverted by 16 airlines on October 1, when Iran launched its attack on Israel.
Additional travel advice
Visitors should remember to respect local laws when travelling in the UAE.
The FCDO advises: “Take care when walking or travelling alone, and use a reputable taxi company, particularly if you are female, and at night. Do not accept lifts from strangers”.
Travellers should also be aware that UAE airports have strict security measures for detecting illegal items, including in transit passengers’ baggage.
Even residual trace amounts of illegal drugs can lead to arrest and imprisonment.
Those flying within the region are strongly advised to check with their airlines for the most up-to-date information and to be prepared for potential last-minute changes or extended delays.
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