JUNE
Turbulence
THIS MONTH’S HIGHLIGHTS - S P E C I A L FA R E S O N O M A N A I R - L U X U R Y H O N E Y M O O N D E S T I N AT I O N S - S AV E U P T O 4 0 % O F F M S C C R U I S E S
2018
T R AV E L N E W S T H AT W I L L E X C I T E Y O U
PRESENTED BY
From the Editor, Sean Simmons With the year hurtling past, at an ever increasing rate, I invite you to take time out, stretch your legs and enjoy some of the features in our latest edition of Turbulence! This edition, we take to the skies with Oman Air, a fantastic Middle Eastern airline offering probably the most economical business class fares to Europe, and give you an insight into the awards they have received over the last few years. Check out the newly refurbished Pan Pacific Melbourne (formerly the Hilton South Wharf) and be in with a chance to win a night stay, including Pacific Club access for 2, in our latest competition! Planning your honeymoon? We have some of the best and most romantic locations to dream about. Why just dream? The deals are fantastic so don’t miss them! Travel for business? We have updated our online booking system, and it just gets better and better. You can now include virtual credit cards so if you are looking for a total solution, have a read and get in touch with Samantha Beeche to see how we can help you and your business cut costs and simplify your booking processes. We hope you survive the current cold snap, brrrr its Arctic like out there. So stay warm, and enjoy your copy of Turbulence. Ed.
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Refer to WIN! Pan Pacific Melbourne Pacific Club Prize
Do you happen to know someone who would benefit from Sean Simmons travel services? Simply refer them to us* via info@seanstravel.com.au, and go into the draw to win the Pan Pacific Melbourne Pacific Club prize. Prize includes an overnight stay in a Pacific Club room and Pacific Club access for up to 2 people* *Terms and Conditions apply. Competition closes 31August 2018, judge’s decision is final, no monetary alternative offered. Referred client must book and pay by 31August 2018 for the referrer to be eligible. Overnight accommodation in a Pacific Club Room for up to two people. Pacific Club access available during stay in the newly refurbished Pacific Club Lounge.Pacific Club access includes breakfast daily, daily refreshments and twilight canapÊs and beverages. Prize valid for a 12 month period from date of award, with date request subject to availability. Prize not combinable with any other offer.
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Save time on expense reconciliation and reimbursement with Virtual Payment
Saving time on expense reconciliation and reimbursement is always high on our clients list of “must do’s. We help our clients save time by streamlining their expense management, improve their cashflow with up to 55 days credit and reduce costs by providing clear and accurate reporting. Here at Sean Simmons Travel we have recently rolled out our Virtual Payment platform, and have partnered with AirPlus International to provide our clients with leading payment options and solutions.
What is Virtual Payment? Virtual Payment is when a unique, one time only credit card number is generated for a specific booking element – for example; a hotel booking. This unique number can be individually tailored for the booking – how much can be spent on it, which hotel can accept it, and how long that card can be used for. Not only can you specify how much and which property, but you can also put in place an approval system and capture enhanced data. By generating these one-off cards, travel managers can ensure that the payment is for approved travel only, and the traveller does not have to go through manual reconciliation when processing their expenses.
AirPlus International The AirPlus business travel payment solution gives you total control and visibility over your travel expenses. AirPlus provide powerful centralised payment solutions that include: - A centralised account for all your payments - AirPlus Company Account
- Accommodation expenses - A.I.D.A., a virtual payment solution - electronic statements that integrate into accounting systems - AirPlus Electronic Billing - a reporting tool to have both an overview and detailed information on your total travel spend - AirPlus Information Manager - AirPlus insurance coverage, a global insurance program - Always get in touch Personalised Account Management Here are the reasons Travel Managers enjoy working with AirPlus: - Transparency of spend - guaranteed enhanced data on every transaction, regardless of transaction type - Correct cost allocation with your company’s supplementary data - Data basis for strategic decisions (e.g. negotiations, travel policies) thanks to a comprehensive but easy to use reporting tool
- Reduced processing and travel service costs - Time savings and less manual failures through electronic data transfer into finance and accounting systems - No need for travellers to collect receipts takes the stress off travel expense reporting If you are interested in more information on how to reduce your direct and indirect costs, by using AirPlus and Sean Simmons Travel, please contact Samantha Beeche: samantha@seanstravel.com.au 03 9429 3294 / 0401 015 604
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SEAN RECOMMENDS
Pan Pacific Melbourne SOUTH WHARF
Situated on the banks of the Yarra in the iconic South Wharf precinct, guests at Pan Pacific Melbourne can enjoy easy access to DFO Shopping Centre as well as Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre. The recently refurbished Pan Pacific Melbourne features luxury hotel rooms and suites, with panoramic views of the city skyline, Yarra River or Port Phillip Bay. The lobby also
has been refreshed to offer an extended sense of space for additional comfort. More importantly, the Pacific Club lounge has been transformed into a magnificent space offering a more exclusive environment for various types of travellers with enhanced experience and comfort. Travellers can revive their senses in the 24 hours fitness centre and indulge in the Dock 37 Bar and Kitchen for
a modern Australian dining experience. For a relaxed setting, guests can unwind in CafĂŠ Orr with quick refreshments. The refurbishment signifies a brand-new chapter for Pan Pacific Melbourne and guests will enjoy a true Pan Pacific experience.
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s i e v Lo ! r i a e h t in Planning your honeymoon getaway? Sean Simmons Travel have amazing deals to some of the most romantic destinations in the world. Contact your Sean Simmons Travel Expert for more details.
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Bawah Island “We live and breathe paradise� Bawah Island resort is a paradise for the discerning eco traveller. An untouched paradise comprised of five islands. Only accessible by private seaplane, this resort offers exclusivity and extraordinary natural sights.
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Why we love it! This resort is the epitome of exclusive natural luxury. 3 lagoons, 13 beaches and lush jungle, shared amongst a maximum 70 guests. Location: From Singapore take a short ferry ride to Batam Indonesia. After being fast tracked through immigration take a 70-minute scenic flight with a private plane which delivers you to the exclusive Bawah Island resort. Perfect for: Exclusive escapes and serenity STAY 5 / PAY 4 $9,179 for 2 Adults – Garden Suite $10,219 for 2 Adults – Beach Suite $11,758 for 2 Adults – Deluxe Beach Suite $12,377 for 2 Adults – Overwater Bungalow
Honeymoon Bonuses - Champagne in room on arrival - Bawah “his & hers” gift - 1 x 60-minute spa treatment per person - 1 x romantic dinner for two with personal butler – minimum 5-night stay required, valid on all room types.
Inclusions - 5 nights’ accommodation - All meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) - Round trip transfers from Singapore via Batam (car, fast ferry & seaplane) - All non-alcoholic beverages including tea, coffee and Bawah bottled water - In room Minibar
Book by: 30/06/2018. Travel dates: 01/06/2018 – 31/12/2018
- Daily laundry service
Flights from Australia to Singapore start from $910.00 per person, return with Qantas.
- Surface water-sports (paddle board, kayak, sailing, snorkelling, boat trips around lagoon)
Conditions Apply – Airfare is based on travel departing July 2018 from Melbourne in economy class. Fares include airport taxes and are correct as of 13th June 2018. Subject to availability or until sold out. Weekend surcharges may apply. Flight / Date / Day restrictions & blackout periods may apply. Credit Card payment surcharges may apply.
- Wi-fi Internet
- Wellness centre activities – treatments, yoga, Pilates, meditation - Island activities such as hiking, open air cinema, star gazing, bird watching
Amendment and cancellation penalties may apply.
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Como Maalifushi “The ultimate ‘away-from-it-all’ destination “ COMO Maalifushi is the sole resort nestled in the Maldives’ Thaa Atoll, in the archipelago’s southern reaches. It is therefore perfectly secluded from other resorts. The waters nearby offer some great breaks for surfing, and the sea life makes for some excellent diving or snorkelling.
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Why we love it! The only resort in the Maldives’ Thaa Atoll, COMO Maalifushi offers space for ultimaterelaxation and wellness. Location: From Malé airport, guests will take a 60-minute seaplane transfer to COMO Maalifushi.
Honeymoon Bonuses. Plus More! - Bottle of Champagne on arrival - Daily Fruit Platter - Gift from Maalifushi - Complimentary 60 minutes spa treatment per couple - Candlelit dinner for 2 persons with a bottle of wine
Perfect for: Relaxation and wellness. STAY 7 / PAY 5 $12,595 for 2 Adults – Water Suite Book by: 30/06/2018. Travel dates: 01/06/2018 – 30/09/2018 Flights from Australia to Male start from $1150 per person, return with SriLankan Airlines. Conditions Apply – Airfare is based on travel departing July 2018 from Melbourne in economy class. Fares include airport taxes and are correct as of 13th June 2018. Subject to availability or until sold out. Weekend surcharges may apply. Flight / Date / Day restrictions & blackout periods may apply. Credit Card payment surcharges may apply. Amendment and cancellation penalties may apply.
Inclusions - 7 nights’ accommodation - Return Male Airport transfers by Seaplane - Breakfast & Dinner daily, excluding beverages - Complimentary Wi-Fi internet - Complimentary use of non-motorised water sports and snorkelling equipment - Complimentary beach bag and flip flops - Complimentary COMO Shambhala bathroom amenities - Complimentary schedule yoga class - Complimentary access to COMO Shambhala Retreat (Steam Room, Sauna, Jacuzzi, 24 hours gym) - Complimentary access to COMO lounge at seaplane terminal upon arrival/departure Turbulence | June | 2018 | 13
Conrad Koh Samui “Never Just Stay. Stay Inspired.�
Sitting on the South-Western end of the idyllic Koh Samui, Conrad Koh Samui has expansive ocean views over Ao Thai Beach. Placed on a dramatic hillside, the resort is comprised of 81 free standing villas, all with private balconies offering seclusion and breathtaking views.
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Why we love it! Incredible sunsets, private pools, ocean views, and over 3000 types of wine in the cellar. We can’t think of a better way to relax. Location: Approximately 45-minute drive from Koh Samui airport. Perfect for: Relaxing and Romance. SAVE UP TO 30% $7,522 for 2 Adults – Oceanview Pool Villa Book by: 30/06/2018. Travel dates: 06/01/2019 – 31/01/2019 11/02/2019 – 30/04/2019 Flights from Australia to Koh Samui start from $992 per person return with Singapore Airlines. Conditions Apply – Airfare is based on travel departing February 2019 from Melbourne in economy class. Fares include airport taxes and are correct as of 13th June 2018. Subject to availability or until sold out. Weekend surcharges may apply. Flight / Date / Day restrictions & blackout periods may apply. Credit Card payment surcharges may apply.
Honeymoon Bonuses. - Floral honeymoon bed decoration - Scented floral bathtub setup - In-Villa room service breakfast one morning during stay - 1 complimentary Romantic Thai Beach Barbecue for 2 persons (food only) - Complimentary Upgrade!!! Book an Oceanview Pool Villa and receive free upgrade to an Oceanview Retreat Pool Villa (subject to availability)
Inclusions - 7 nights’ accommodation - Return Luxury Private Vehicle airport transfers - Breakfast daily - Complimentary daily speedboat shuttle to nearby island - Complimentary daily scheduled shuttle service to/from Chaweng Beach - Complimentary WIFI
Amendment and cancellation penalties may apply.
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Royal Davui Island Fiji Resort “Private Island Bliss” Royal Davui Island Fiji Resort is an exclusive adults-only resort located in the spectacular Beqa Lagoon. White sand beaches, turquoise waters and tall palms silhouetted against the setting sun. Unhurried and stress-free, you’ll feel a million miles from the hustle of modern living.
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Why we love it! Elegant but still barefoot luxury. This adult only resort is located near one of the best shark dives In the South Pacific. Location: Choose from a 30-minute helicopter flight or a scenic transfer from Nadi across the mainland by plane to Pacific Harbour. Perfect for: Romance and diving. STAY 7/PAY 5 Island Plunge Pool Vale – $9,636 for 2 Adults Premium Plunge Pool Vale – $10,882 for 2 Adults Davui Sunset Pool Suite – $13,857 for 2 Adults
Honeymoon Bonuses. - 1 Hour Pure Fiji Couples Massage - Private Dining Experience
Inclusions - 7 nights’ accommodation - Return Shared Nadi Airport transfers by Scheduled Flight and Launch - Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Daily (excluding beverages) - Pure Fiji Bathroom Amenities - Sunset canapés each evening in the Banyan Bar
Book by: 30/06/2018. Travel dates: 01/06/2018 – 20/12/2018 05/01/2019 – 31/03/2019
- Weekly Island BBQ, Managers Cocktail Party, and Kava Ceremony
Flights from Australia to Nadi start from $692 per person return with Fiji Airways
- Complimentary WIFI
Conditions Apply – Airfare is based on travel departing February 2019 from Melbourne in economy class.
- Nightly Entertainment - Complimentary use of all non-motorized water sports and activities
Fares include airport taxes and are correct as of 13th June 2018. Subject to availability or until sold out. Weekend surcharges may apply. Flight / Date / Day restrictions & blackout periods may apply. Credit Card payment surcharges may apply. Amendment and cancellation penalties may apply.
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Who are OMAN AIR? Oman Air is the flagship carrier of the Sultanate of Oman and an Official 4 Star Airline (Skytrax 2011). Founded in 1993, the airline has since witnessed massive growth and has played a major role in making Muscat an important traffic hub in the Middle East, supporting the commercial, industrial and tourism sectors. The airline currently operates direct international flights from Muscat to Abu Dhabi, Bahrain, Doha, Dubai, Jeddah, Riyadh, Dammam, Medina, and Kuwait, in the Gulf region, as well as Cairo, Amman, Tehran, Mashhad, Najaf, Zanzibar and Dar Es Salaam within the wider Middle East/Africa region. In addition, Oman Air flies to eleven destinations in India (Goa, Mumbai, Chennai, Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, Hyderabad, Delhi, Lucknow, Bangalore, Kozhikode and Jaipur); Karachi, Islamabad and Lahore in Pakistan; 18 | Turbulence | June | 2018
Kathmandu in Nepal; and Colombo in Sri Lanka. The airline also flies to Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Manila, Jakarta in the Far East, Guangzhou in China and Nairobi in Kenya. Its European destinations are London, Manchester, Milan, Munich, Frankfurt, Paris and Zurich. Oman Air’s domestic destinations are Salalah, Khasab and Duqum. It also serves 5 additional domestic points for The Duqum Special Economic Zone Authority (SEZAD), Petroleum Development Oman (PDO) and Occidental, which are Duqum, Marmul, Qarn AlAlam, Mukhaizinah and Fahud. Oman Air’s soon-to-belaunched destinations for this year are Istanbul (Turkey) from June 1st, Casablanca (Morocco) from July 1st and Moscow (Russia) from October 28th. Oman Air has codeshare agreements with several airline partners. These are:
Lufthansa, Qatar Airways, Gulf Air, Etihad, Ethiopian Airlines, Royal Jordanian, Turkish Airlines, Sri Lankan Airlines, KLM, Garuda Airlines, Thai Airways, Saudia, Malaysia Airlines and Kenyan Airways offering travellers better connectivity and increased choice. Currently Oman Air’s fleet consists of four Boeing 787-8, three 787-9 Dreamliners, six Airbus 330-300s, four Airbus 330-200s, five Boeing 737900s, 21 Boeing 737-800, four Embraer 175s and two 737 MAX. By the end of 2018 Oman Air will have taken delivery of five new MAX aircraft and three 787-9s. By 2022, Oman Air’s total fleet size is expected to be around 66. Oman Air’s outstanding aircraft interiors include its First Class Mini Suite, which provides each of the six First Class passengers with direct aisle access and converts to the longest lie-flat seat in the skies. The A330’s
outstanding Business Class seats each provide direct aisle access, ample storage space and the latest technological amenities. Economy Class seats offer adjustable head and leg rests, together with generous leg and elbow room. State of the art inflight entertainment systems feature individual seatback screens, audio and video on demand and live satellite TV. In addition, Oman Air has pioneered both mobile telephony and Internet connectivity on board its flights and this is available in all three classes. Superb new First and Business Class lounges have been opened at Muscat International Airport, featuring elegant and tranquil relaxation areas, complimentary spa treatments and à la carte dining. In addition, premium check-in facilities and a First-Class lounge-to-aircraft limousine service are offered to passengers at Muscat.
Oman Air Wins Middle East’s Leading Airline Business & Economy Class 2018 Awards The World Travel Awards reward, recognise and celebrate excellence across all sectors of the global travel and tourism industry. The Awards were presented at a glittering gala dinner held at Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah. Paul Starrs, Chief Commercial Officer Oman Air, and Jamal Al Azki, Country Manager Oman, received the awards, on behalf of Oman Air. The airline beat tough competition from ten other Middle Eastern carriers. These most recent awards join the previous World Travel Awards presented to Oman Air in the last successive years of 2017, 2016, 2015 and 2014. Eng. Abdulaziz Al Raisi, CEO of Oman Air, said: “We are delighted to be awarded the Middle East’s Leading
Airline in the Business Class and Economy Class in these most recent World Travel Awards. These awards highlight Oman Air’s dedication and commitment to delivering the best level of service and product offering to our guests and it is gratifying to see that Oman Air is consistently recognised as a leader in the airline industry. We look forward to continuing the development of our awardwinning product in the year that lies ahead and beyond.” Oman Air is a pioneer in innovation and product development; the airline has already been recognized in 2018 by the official Four-Star Airlines Rating at the Apex Regional Passenger Choice Awards. Oman Air was also officially recognised for its continued contribution to the development of tourism in the Sultanate. These 2018 awards come on the back of a multitude of accolades presented in 2017 including four World Travel Awards.
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The World Travel Awards were established in 1993 to reward exceptional standards in the travel and tourism industry and the brand is recognised globally as the ultimate hallmark of quality.
Awards 2017 - World Travel Awards 2017: Oman Air Wins “World’s Leading Airline – Economy Class” and was also named the winner in the World’s Ultimate Service Award in Hospitality 2017. - World Travel Awards Middle East 2017: Oman Air was voted the best in the ‘Middle East’s Leading Airline - Business Class’ and ‘Middle East’s Leading Airline - Economy Class’ categories - Frontier Awards: Oman Air and Muscat Duty Free awarded Inflight Retailer of the Year at the Frontier Awards. - Seven Stars Luxury Lifestyle 20 | Turbulence | June | 2018
and Hospitality Awards 2017: Oman Air, was awarded for the second year in row as “Best Airline in Europe, Middle East and Africa” within the Seven Stars Luxury Lifestyle and Hospitality Awards 2017. - Skytrax World Airline Awards: Oman Air was named as the winner of the ’Best Airline Staff Service in the Middle East’ award at the prestigious Skytrax World Airline Awards 2017.
Awards 2016 - World Travel Awards: For the third year running Oman Air was awarded “World’s Leading Airline – Economy Class” at the World Travel Awards. The 2016 award joins the accolades that were presented to the National Carrier of Oman, in 2014 and 2015. - World Travel Awards Middle East: Oman Air has been named ‘Middle East’s
Leading Airline, Business Class’ and ‘Middle East’s Leading Airline, Economy Class’ at the World Travel Awards Middle East 2016. - Business Destinations Travel Awards: Oman Air received the Business Destinations
Year-Round Business Class Fares With Award Winning OMAN AIR From
Via
Airline
Adelaide
Doha Kuala Lumpur
Brisbane
Melbourne
Perth
Sydney
PARIS
HEATHROW
MILAN
MUNICH
MOSCOW (From 28/10/18)
DUBAI
CASABLANCA (From 01/07/18)
Qatar Airways
$7,896.88
$8,211.88
$7,795.08
$7,862.88
$7,793.78
$7,581.98
$7,738.78
Malaysia Airlines
$4,913.58
$5,247.08
$4,811.78
$4,879.58
$4,805.78
$4,588.18
$4,732.78
Abu Dhabi Etihad Airways
$4,618.22
$4,879.22
$4,516.42
$4,614.72
$4,537.89
n/a
$4,431.92
Bangkok
Thai Airways
$5,434.42
$5,826.12
$5,719.12
$5,370.12
$5,266.02
$5,058.92
$5,271.62
Kuala Lumpur
Malaysia Airlines
$4,900.92
$5,244.42
$4,799.12
$4,866.92
$4,793.12
$4,748.52
$4,764.12
Abu Dhabi Etihad Airways
$4,595.75
$4,856.75
$4,493.95
$4,561.75
$4,487.95
n/a
$4,378.95
Bangkok
Thai Airways
$5,378.18
$5,831.08
$5,276.48
$5,451.38
$5,270.69
$5,170.38
$5,276.08
Kuala Lumpur
Malaysia Airlines
$4,853.95
$5,114.95
$4,645.15
$4,605.95
$4,532.15
$4,325.05
$4,450.15
Bangkok
Thai Airways
$4,585.31
$5,114.61
$4,514.64
$4,688.81
$4,508.11
$4,407.81
$4,423.31
Kuala Lumpur
Malaysia Airlines
$3,755.11
$4,113.11
$3,653.31
$3,721.11
$3,647.31
$3,454.21
$3,574.31
Kuala Lumpur
Malindo Air
$3,681.11
$3,889.11
$3,579.31
$3,647.11
$3,573.31
$3,366.21
$3,493.81
Bangkok
Thai Airways
$5,402.36
$5,901.66
$5,301.36
$5,476.26
$5,295.56
$5,195.26
$5,179.06
Kuala Lumpur
Malaysia Airlines
$4,904.82
$5,273.82
$4,803.02
$4,870.82
$4,797.02
$4,589.92
$4,474.65
Jakarta
Qantas
$5,097.68
$5,519.88
$4,973.78
$5,041.68
$5,000.98
$4,760.68
$5,042.58
Bangkok
Qantas
$5,141.58
$5,563.78
$5,039.48
$5,214.38
$5,033.68
$4,872.08
$4,917.18
Manila
Qantas
$5,103.28
$5,632.48
$5,001.18
$5,069.08
$4,995.38
$4,895.08
$4,940.18
Other destinations in Europe. Middle East, Africa and Asia available on request. Fares correct as of 15 June 2018 and include all taxes and surcharges. Subject to availability at time of booking. Fees for credit card payment apply. Travel options based on travel via Muscat for all itineraries. Penalties apply for changes and cancellations. Fares are non-transferable
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Sizzling Summer Sale
Save up to 40% per cabin or Save 50% off second passenger!
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Hurry 2018 sale runs for a limited time! MSC FANTASIA 7 OCT 2018 EX GENOA, ITALY Inside from AU$1,608* Oceanview from AU$2,568* Balcony from AU$2,848*
40% SAVE UP TO
Prices per cabin
PER CABIN!*
MSC SINFONIA 25 NOV 2018 EX GENOA, ITALY Inside from AU$2,193* Oceanview from AU$2,433* Balcony from AU$3,978*
50%
Prices per cabin
SECOND PASSENGER*
MSC POESIA 13 NOV 2018 EX GENOA, ITALY Inside from AU$3,273* Oceanview from AU$4,173* Balcony from AU$5,298*
50%
Prices per cabin
SECOND PASSENGER*
Conditions: 50% off second passenger promotion runs until 31 JULY 18 and is for departures in the Caribbean, Mediterranean, Arabian Peninsula & Italy to Brazil Grand Voyage departures. Valid new bookings only. Prices shown in AUD, per cabin, twin share, based on departure dates shown above. Surcharges may apply for other dates. Price is inclusive of second passenger discount. Prices are cabin capacity controlled & additional cabins may not be added. Valid for twin share only and no further discount for extra persons. Bookings and prices quoted on official website, under this promotion, are incl. of discount and display as total cabin price divided by two for an equivalent per person rate, not as 1-person full rate and 1-person reduced rate. Stated discount is based on 50% off the cruise fare for second passenger excl. port charges. Save up to 40% off the cruise fare, per cabin. Promotion ends 30 JUNE 2018. 7-night Mediterranean & 7-night Caribbean & Cuba departure shown above, saving is based on prima rate v promotion rate. Prices shown in AUD, per cabin, twin share, based on departure dates shown above. Surcharges may apply for other dates. Combinable with MSC Voyagers Club standard discount. Not combinable with any other offer or promotion. Subject to availability at time of booking. All details, itinerary, maps and prices are correct as at 6JUNE 18 and can be withdrawn or changed at any time without prior notice. For full terms and conditions visit www.msccruises.com.au E&OE MSC Cruises (Australia) Pty Limited ABN 55 003 526
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New 2018 itineraries & departures on sale! MSC SEASIDE 24 NOV 2018 EX MIAMI, USA Inside from AU$1,286* Oceanview from AU$1,616* Balcony from AU$1,976*
50%
Prices per cabin
SECOND PASSENGER*
MSC SEASIDE 24 NOV 2018 EX MIAMI, USA Inside from AU$1,286* Oceanview from AU$1,616* Balcony from AU$1,976*
40% SAVE UP TO
Prices per cabin
PER CABIN!*
MSC LIRICA 30 NOV 2018 EX DUBAI, UAE Inside from AU$1,803* Oceanview from AU$2,193* Balcony from AU$3,783*
50%
Prices per cabin
SECOND PASSENGER*
Conditions: 50% off second passenger promotion runs until 31 JULY 18 and is for departures in the Caribbean, Mediterranean, Arabian Peninsula & Italy to Brazil Grand Voyage departures. Valid new bookings only. Prices shown in AUD, per cabin, twin share, based on departure dates shown above. Surcharges may apply for other dates. Price is inclusive of second passenger discount. Prices are cabin capacity controlled & additional cabins may not be added. Valid for twin share only and no further discount for extra persons. Bookings and prices quoted on official website, under this promotion, are incl. of discount and display as total cabin price divided by two for an equivalent per person rate, not as 1-person full rate and 1-person reduced rate. Stated discount is based on 50% off the cruise fare for second passenger excl. port charges. Save up to 40% off the cruise fare, per cabin. Promotion ends 30 JUNE 2018. 7-night Mediterranean & 7-night Caribbean & Cuba departure shown above, saving is based on prima rate v promotion rate. Prices shown in AUD, per cabin, twin share, based on departure dates shown above. Surcharges may apply for other dates. Combinable with MSC Voyagers Club standard discount. Not combinable with any other offer or promotion. Subject to availability at time of booking. All details, itinerary, maps and prices are correct as at 6JUNE 18 and can be withdrawn or changed at any time without prior notice. For full terms and conditions visit www.msccruises.com.au E&OE MSC Cruises (Australia) Pty Limited ABN 55 003 526
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Travel Information & Industry News PRESENTED BY
ROYAL BRUNEI NOW 1 STOP TO LONDON EFFECTIVE 28 OCTOBER 2018 Royal Brunei passengers travelling from Melbourne to London will shave five hours and 15 minutes from their trip when the airline’s current two-stop route via Brunei and Dubai becomes a one-stop journey via Brunei only, from October 28th 2018. As part of the change, the airline’s flights to both Melbourne and London will be re-timed from the same date, with a dedicated BruneiDubai-Brunei service also launching from October 29 for passengers travelling to the UAE. From late October, flight BI6 from Melbourne to Bandar
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Seri Begawan (Brunei) will depart at 6:30pm daily, arriving at 10:40pm local time. Passengers continuing to London will connect to flight BI3 at 12:15am, touching down at 6:50am, one calendar day later than when departing Melbourne. On the return journey from Heathrow, BI4 is wheels-up at 5:05pm daily, landing in Brunei at 2:40pm local time the next day, with the airline’s Melbourne-bound BI5 flight jetting off at 7pm to reach Melbourne at 5am one extra day later. These flights will continue to be served by Royal Brunei’s Boeing 787-8 aircraft, on which 18 business class seats take pride of place up the front, adopting a 2-2-2 layout, with business class passengers
offered access to the Marhaba Lounge in Melbourne… … to Royal Brunei’s new flagship business class lounge while on the ground in Brunei… … and when departing London, to Gulf Air’s Falcon Gold Lounge in Heathrow Terminal 4, which regular UK travellers may have previously visited when flying Etihad during the period when Etihad’s own lounge was being refurbished As of October 29, the airline’s services from Brunei to Dubai will run at 12:20am on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays under flight BI7, arriving in Dubai at 5am the same day, with journeys back operating at 6am for a 6pm arrival in Brunei.
IMPORTANT DFAT NOTICE CHANGES TO PASSPORT PHOTOS Key information about this policy change:
MARHABA LOUNGE, MELBOURNE AIRPORT Did you know…. Melbourne Airport has a “pay for use” lounge offering great value for money, so you can relax before you fly?
of the relevant frequent flyer program, may not hold appropriate status for entry to their own lounge. The Marhaba Lounge is due to be added to the Priority Pass paid network of lounges in the near future.
Part of the Marhaba lounge network operated by the Emirates-owned Dnata air services group, passengers who lack access to an airline-specific lounge – most likely because they’re not travelling in business or first class, or don’t have appropriate frequent flyer status – can pay their way into the lounge for A$65 for up to four hours.
With room for 200 travellers, features of the lounge include a buffet, shower suites and a quiet zone. The wine list boasts “a selection of Australia’s finest wines’, according to Dnata, or a shot of Hudson Coffee from the barista bar for that morning wake-up. The Marhaba Lounge is open daily from 6am to midnight.
- Glasses will not be allowed in passport photos taken from 1 July 2018. The new measures are designed to further strengthen the integrity of the Australian passport. - If glasses cannot be removed for medical reasons, such as severe light sensitivity, a medical certificate stating the medical reason must be presented when you lodge your passport application. For the updated passport photo guidelines please visit
www.passports.gov.au
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Travel Information & Industry News JOHN BORGHETTI TO STEP DOWN BY JANUARY 2020 Virgin Australia will have just the third chief executive in its near 20-year history by the start of 2020, with current boss John Borghetti announcing his intention to step down some time in the next 18 months. Borghetti has “advised the board he will not renew his contract post 1 January 2020”, Virgin Australia said in a statement to the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) on Tuesday. “Mr Borghetti has signalled his desire to depart by this date to enable the Group ample time to recruit an incoming CEO and allow for an appropriate transition,” the Virgin Australia statement said. Virgin Australia chairman Elizabeth Bryan said the board would commence a global search for a successor. “The board and I are grateful to John for providing a generous period of time for the search for the CEO and an appropriate transition of leadership,” Bryan said in the statement. “I would like to acknowledge John’s enormous contribution to the Virgin Australia Group to date and thank him for his continued 28 | Turbulence | June | 2018
dedication.” Borghetti said it was a privilege to serve as the chief executive of the Virgin Australia group and lead a “wonderful team of 10,000 people”. “By notifying the board of my intentions now, it provides them with an appropriate time to conduct a thorough recruitment process and for me to support the transition,” Borghetti said. “In the interim, I look forward to continuing in the role of CEO and remain focused on delivering the goals of the Virgin Australia Group.” The veteran aviation executive has spent more than four decades in aviation, having worked at Qantas for 37 years where he rose to executive general manager. He left the Flying Kangaroo in 2009, after Alan Joyce was named chief executive. Borghetti has been Virgin Australia chief executive for a little over eight years, having succeeded Brett Godfrey in May 2010. He is just the second chief executive in the airline’s history. Under his leadership, the airline has been transformed from a low-cost carrier into an airline group with a full service
(Virgin Australia) and low-costcarrier (Tigerair Australia) arm, as well as regional and cargo operations and a frequent flyer program nudging nine million members. However, what has eluded Virgin Australia under Borghetti has been consistent profitability, with the airline group racking up losses in excess of $1 billion over the past five financial years. The expansion into new markets, investment in upgraded products both on the ground and in the air also took its toll on the company’s balance sheet. And Borghetti’s departure comes as the airline is facing challenges on a number of fronts. First, Virgin Australia is in the midst of a three-year transformation program that has involved the disposal of Embraer E190 regional jets and some ATR turboprops, as well as the transition of Tigerair Australia Airbus A320s to Boeing 737-800s and capital raising efforts to boost the company’s balance sheet. Meanwhile, Air New Zealand signalled it was walking away from the pair’s trans-Tasman jointventure alliance when it ends in October, leaving Virgin
Australia without a local partner in the domestic New Zealand market. And the airline is battling a resurgent Qantas that is making healthy profits in the domestic Australian market while Virgin Australia struggles for profitability. Finally, there is ongoing speculation about the company’s share register, which features five major shareholders in Etihad Airways, HNA Group, Nanshan, Singapore Airlines and Sir Richard Branson’s United Kingdom-based Virgin Group, and whether the company would eventually be delisted from the
ASX and taken private. Nonetheless, Borghetti is credited with the transformation of Virgin Blue to a full-service and diversified airline group and adding competition to the Australian aviation sector. Despite recent struggles, Virgin Australia posted a positive underlying profit before tax for the six months to December 31 2017 and pointed to an improved underlying performance in the second half of the 2017/18 compared with the prior corresponding period.
also lifted its outlook for Virgin Australia from negative to stable in May 2018. In recent times, Borghetti has taken less of a day-today role in the running of the airline. In 2016, John Thomas was appointed as Virgin Australia group executive for airlines. However, he lasted less than a year in the role. In November 2017 Rob Sharp was appointed to the role.
Moody’s Investors Service Turbulence | June | 2018 | 29
Travel Information & Industry News Virgin Australia has had one 777-300ER conducting trials with passengers travelling between Australia and the Los Angeles. At the same time, the airline has been conducting private testing behind the scenes on other 777-300ERs aircraft as they were equipped. Virgin Australia general manager for customer experience and product Tash Tobias said the results of the internal testing and passenger feedback had been fantastic.
VIRGIN AUSTRALIA THE FIRST CARRIER TO OFFER WI-FI ACROSS THE DITCH TO LOS ANGELES Virgin Australia has officially switched on inflight internet Wi-Fi for customers on its Boeing 777-300ER fleet, declaring itself to be the first Australian airline to offer Wi-Fi on international services. The fifth and last of its 777300ERs to have the radome and necessary on-board equipment and cabling installed was VH-VPH, with the work completed in late May at Virgin Australia’s Brisbane maintenance hangar, located on the eastern side of the
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airfield and directly across from the domestic terminals. The previous four aircraft, VH-VOZ, VH-VPD, VH-VPE and VH-VPF had their Wi-Fi installation work undertaken in Singapore, with two aircraft completed in November and December and a further two in January and February. Virgin Australia has partnered with Gogo, using the 2Ku dual-antenna technology (one for the forward link and one for the return link) for its inflight connectivity, which uses Optus satellites for domestic and trans-Tasman services and Intelsat and SES for its other international flights.
“We were flying them sort of in private mode so that we just make sure that everything was working before we allowed our guests to experience the Wi-Fi on board all of the aircraft,” Tobias told Australian Aviation in an interview at Virgin Australia’s Brisbane maintenance hangar on May 16. “The purpose of doing it that way was really so that we could continually refine the offering until we were comfortable with the service that we provided. “I flew it the week before last and it was quite amazing how much coverage there is and the speed of the technology
right through.”Virgin Australia had VH-VPD at its Brisbane hangar from May 8 until May 24. While the level of coverage on the long journey across the Pacific – Virgin Australia’s 777-300ERs operate from Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney to Los Angeles – depended on the actual flight path taken, Tobias said the coverage was available for the “vast, vast majority of the time”. VIRGIN AUSTRALIA KICKED OFF WI-FI ROLLOUT IN APRIL 2017 Virgin Australia started offering connectivity in April 2017 on its Boeing 737 fleet. The service started as a free trial on domestic flights on board a single 737-800, which was followed by a roll out of the technology to the rest of the fleet. On Tuesday, Virgin Australia said the 12 of its 737 fleet would feature inflight internet Wi-Fi by the end of calendar 2018. At December 31, Virgin Australia had 81 737 aircraft, comprising two 737-700s and 79 737-800s. Finally, Wi-Fi installation would begin on the airline’s six Airbus A330-200s – which are used on flights to Hong
Kong and on trans-continental domestic services – in early 2019.
Virgin Australia group executive for airlines Rob Sharp added: “Most of us use our phones on a daily – if not hourly basis – meaning it can be incredibly disruptive to have extended periods of time when you can’t connect with friends, family, colleagues, or what’s going on in the world.”
WI-FI TO HELP RELIEVE “NET LAG” Research commissioned by Virgin Australia and conducted by Pure Profile found 70 per cent of Australians admitted to feeling frustrated because they could not access the internet during a flight. Further, 65 per cent of respondents said they felt overwhelmed catching up on emails, messages and other unread notifications once they landed.
“We’re proud to be the leader in providing Australians with greater inflight connectivity on international flights,” Sharp said. VIRGIN AUSTRALIA GIVING PASSENGERS FREE AND PAID WI-FI OPTIONS
Virgin Australia has termed this inability to stay connected on flights that leads to feelings of stress and fear of missing out (FOMO) as “net lag”. University of Sydney cyberpsychologist Dr Andrew Campbell said the not being able to keep up-todate with the online world and stay in touch with friends was a “real fear that’s only grown since the introduction of smartphones”. “Like it or not, staying connected has become an essential part of life for most of us and certainly seems to be where we’re headed as a society,” Dr Campbell said in a statement.
On domestic flights, Virgin Australia is offering a socalled standard Wi-Fi free to all passengers, while those wanting a faster connection – for on board streaming for example – can opt to pay for a highspeed service. There will be no free service on international flights, with packages for one hour or the entire flight available for purchase. “The complimentary offer is really to take care of this net lag that we’ve been talking about,” Tobias said. “So, our guests will be able to stay in touch, they will be able to use
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Travel Information & Industry News Qantas to offer Wi-Fi for its international operations some time in 2021. And across the Tasman, Air New Zealand commenced trials on its Boeing 777-300ER fleet in October 2017. And according to the airline’s website, the 777-200ER fleet will be next to have Wi-Fi hardware installed, followed by the remainder of its international fleet comprising the 787-9s and Airbus A320s.
social media, they will be able to use Wi-Fi enabled messaging applications. They will be able to do emails, without downloading really large files. They will be able to do a lot of things they want to do to stay in touch. But we are charging guests for higher bandwidth activities like steaming content, particularly on domestic flights because we think that not everybody is going to want that but those who do will be able to have the choice. That enables us to be able to keep it complimentary for the vast majority of people.” While Virgin Australia is currently the only Australian airline to offer inflight internet Wi-Fi on international flights, Qantas did trial Wi-Fi for a short time on its Airbus A380 flights between Australia and the 32 | Turbulence | June | 2018
United States in 2012. However, it was restricted to those in first and business class and the reported take-up was low. In April 2017, Qantas relaunched an inflight internet Wi-Fi service in partnership with ViaSat and nbn Co. The airline said in late May 2018 it had expected to have two of its 12 A330-200s which are predominantly used for domestic services and half of its half of its 75 737-800s fitted with Wi-Fi by the end of June. Qantas chief executive Alan Joyce told reporters on the sidelines of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) annual general meeting in Sydney on Monday the airline was waiting for the launch of Ka band satellites in 2019 and 2020. That would allow
The New Zealand flag carrier has chosen Inmarsat and its GX for Aviation product, which uses Global Xpress Ka band satellite network. So, how much is Virgin Australia going to charge? For Australian domestic flights, the service is free for standard speed, or $9 for high speed connections For Los Angeles, the charge is $9 for 1 hour or, and we believe much better value, is their “flight pass” lasting the duration of the flight, for just $20. (Have you travelled on Virgin recently? We would love your feedback on their Wi-Fi offering, and any other feedback you may have. Drop a line to – info@seanstravel.com.au )
QANTAS, AIR NZ ANNOUNCE CODESHARE AGREEMENT Australasia’s big two carriers Air New Zealand and Qantas have announced plans for a wide-ranging codeshare agreement covering more than 100 domestic routes in the region. Qantas will add its code on as many as 30 domestic New Zealand routes operated by Air NZ, while the Kiwi carrier will codeshare on up to 85 routes on Qantas’ Australian domestic network. Tickets for codeshare services can be booked from the end of July 2018, for travel starting from 28 October 2018. The airlines are touting shorter connection times and seamless check-in procedures for faster journeys overall. Eligible customers may also make use of a total of 36 domestic lounges in both Australia and New Zealand when travelling on codeshare flights. “While the two airlines will continue to compete very strongly across all markets, Air New Zealand and Qantas are known for having a commitment to innovation,
customer service excellence, operational performance and safety. We are confident that our respective customers will enjoy the reciprocal benefits,” said Air NZ CEO Christopher Luxon. The codeshare pact includes only domestic services and not cross border TransTasman flights although Qantas will continue to codeshare on connecting Jetstar New Zealand services.
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