Railway travel: new – and cooler – highs

Two trends collide as travellers hop on board the train trend while also escaping hot European summers. According to no-fly railway specialist Byway Travel, there’s increased interest in cooler Alpine spots in Austria, Slovenia and Switzerland – and it helps that these places are just made for overland train travel. Staggeringly beautiful routes winding their way through mountain passes are often only accessible by train (or a hike) and with a variety of mountain guesthouses and hotels on the way, it’s never been easier to connect the popularity of railway travel with a desire to holiday in more comfortable temperatures.

Read 8 of the most breathtaking train journeys across the world to get inspired and plan your ultimate train trip...

Identity travel: a sense of self

It’s nothing new that many travellers are seeking out more meaningful experiences, as they look to make holidays a truly impactful break away from hectic everyday lives. But for some, travel is also about finding a deeper connection to themselves, their families and their ancestors.

A combination of a rise in the purchase of DNA kits, vastly improved digital archives and records, and GlobalData’s prediction that this form of genealogy or roots travel is on the rise, this can mean exploring your family’s Scottish history, tracing your ancestors’ journey from West Africa, or discovering an unexpected connection from genealogy results. It’s a form of travel that feels more reflective, adding another, and more personal, layer to the destination.

Longevity travel: wellness with a twist

At 2025’s Luxury Summit in Las Vegas, industry experts cited longevity travel as a top trend for 2026. Combined with the overall beauty trend of biohacking – making intentional changes to your diet, lifestyle, and mindset to maximise what the body can do – travelling for deeper restoration and better health is set to grow.

According to a survey by eDreams ODIGEO which incorporates travel brands such as Opodo, 92% of global respondents already feel that holidays have a ‘very’ or ‘quite’ positive impact on their mental wellbeing. As we focus increasingly on improving our mental health and sleep hygiene and an enthusiasm to embrace traditional healing methods, it’s no surprise that it will become more of a factor in shaping our time off.

Check out our round-up of the best health retreats to try, from stress-relieving retreats in Thailand to sleep clinics in Spain.

Respectful safari-ing: keep your distance

In summer 2025, dozens of safari jeeps were filmed blocking wildebeest crossing a river during the Great Migration in Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park, causing outrage across the board. Not only was it morally and ethically wrong, is a crowded experience on safari even enjoyable?

Travelling to see wildlife has and always will be a huge draw, but it seems a ‘less is more’ approach is being cultivated. Tour operators aim to make safari more sustainable by encouraging travellers to enjoy wildlife experiences outside the peak season, visit lesser-visited national parks and reserves (including to lesser-visited countries such as Uganda, Gambia, Malawi and Zambia) and incorporate experiences that show Africa as a place of diverse communities, culture and entrepreneurship, and not just a wildlife haven.

Quiet travel: calm over crowds

It’s a noisy world outside and we’re all craving a little peace. But it’s not just about total quiet; the sounds of nature can be just as soothing. As tour operator Black Tomato says, recent studies have connected natural soundscapes to higher satisfaction and pro-environmental attitudes.

This could mean seeking out quiet hours at busy attractions, listening to monks chanting, farm stays that allow you to experience rural idylls, hearing the squawks and sounds of the jungle, or enjoying the stillness and darkness of the night sky. With so many of us managing a fast pace of life, and an over-stimulated one at that, seeking out natural or low-stimulation on our travels is one trend that will endure way beyond 2026.

We've chosen 10 destinations to disconnect – ultimate remote places to stay to get away from it all.

Nostalgia travel: safe spaces in testing times

Whether it’s going off grid or simply unplugging from your phone or laptop, retro stays that remind us of holidays past are on the up. Think forest cabins with actual record players, watching DVDs and playing board games: going analogue has never been more on-trend.

Booking.com’s 2026 survey highlights a growing number of travellers who want to “relive meaningful moments and share them with others.” It found that 46% of global travellers are drawn to destinations that make them feel young, connected or at home.

Event-driven travel: travelling for the moment

2026 is the year for one of the world’s biggest sporting events, the Fifa Men’s World Cup. It’s also the first time it will be hosted by three countries – USA, Canada and Mexico – and data from eDreams ODIGEO show that searches for Mexico have increased by 15% and by 14% for Canada.

Similarly, interest in Milan is up 24% as the city and nearby resort town Cortina D’Ampezzo prepare to host the Winter Olympics in February, all motivated by a desire to be part of something beyond evergreen experiences and attractions. Travelling for music festivals and concerts in also on the up, alongside planning around cultural festivals such as Rio carnival, Day of the Dead in Mexico and Japan’s Sapporo Snow Festival.

Group travel: solo but not alone, with women leading the way

While solo travel can mean anything from travelling completely independently to joining a guided group tour as a solo traveller, Hostelworld’s 2025 State of Solo Travel 2025 report found that many solo travellers (58%) said meeting new people was the best aspect, up from 43% in 2024.

While freedom and spontaneity were the biggest reasons to go solo, over two-thirds actively look to meet new people. At the heart of this trend are female solo travellers; they’re more likely to take solo trips, citing stepping out of comfort zones, increased self-confidence and feeling mentally refreshed among the benefits.

Connected to this is the rise in women-only group travel, often tours created by women for women with a focus on female-owned businesses and experiences. This year, the Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA) reported that the number of travel companies focusing exclusively on female travellers had increased by 230% in the last few years.

We've got 8 of the best foodie destinations for solo travellers around the world, or 8 UK food trips for solo travellers if you want to start closer to home.

Book club retreats: readaway travel

Reading on holiday is nothing new, but the desire to focus on reading and take part in reading-focused trips is set to grow. In their Unpack ’26 trends report, travel company Vrbo reported that searches for ‘book retreats’ and ‘book club retreat ideas’ are up 100% and 265% on Pinterest.

They also found that 91% of travellers are seeking trips focused on reading, relaxation and quality time with loved ones, tapping into the wider trend for more meaningful, mindful and slower-paced holidays. Many retreats choose books based on the destination, mixing the book with a sense of place and community, bringing the book alive in the very place it’s set in. According to market research company Future Market Insights, the entire literary tourism sector, including visiting places because of their connection to a book, was worth an estimated $2.4bn last year.

The Scandinavians have their sauna-and-fika take on the ritual, the chic Italians tend to shower first and party later (in a wine bar, at best), and in their snow globe villages, the Austrians and French partake in post-piste vin chaud, and sometimes beer culture. No matter the case, each resort is home to its own identity and unspoken codes. From high-altitude cabarets on sun-blasted terraces to low-key institutions with live music, here’s our guide to the best après-ski scenes in Europe.

Sölden, Austria

SAF, derived from waste products, emerges as a key player in decarbonising long-haul aviation and aligning with the New Zero 2050 initiative. Offering CO2 lifecycle emissions savings of up to 70%, SAF mirrors the performance of traditional jet fuel, emphasising its potential to reshape the aviation industry's environmental impact.

Richard Branson, the visionary founder of Virgin Atlantic, reflects on the spirit of innovation and the continuous pursuit of improvement since the airline's inception in 1984. Branson's presence on Flight100, alongside his daughter Holly, symbolises a commitment to pushing boundaries — from carbon fiber aircraft to sustainable fuels.

Despite SAF representing less than 0.1% of global jet fuel, Flight100 illuminates the challenge of scaling up production. Current fuel standards permitting only a 50% SAF blend in commercial jet engines highlight the need for swift policy and investment actions. The call is for industry and government collaboration to foster a thriving UK SAF industry.

Flight100 goes beyond showcasing SAF capabilities. Consortium partners, including ICF, Rocky Mountain Institute, Imperial College London, and the University of Sheffield, support research on non-carbon emissions. The study aims to enhance understanding of SAF's effects on contrails and particulates, contributing valuable data to the industry and aiding contrail forecasts in flight planning.

The SAF used in Flight100 is a distinctive dual blend — 88% Hydroprocessed Esters and Fatty Acids (HEFA) supplied by AirBP and 12% Synthetic Aromatic Kerosene (SAK) supplied by Virent, a subsidiary of Marathon Petroleum Corporation. HEFA is derived from waste fats, while SAK is sourced from waste plant sugars. This blend is essential for achieving the required aromatics for engine function in 100% SAF.

Virgin Atlantic's commitment to sustainable aviation extends beyond Flight100. Operating one of the youngest and most fuel-efficient fleets globally, the airline has a 15-year track record of leading SAF development at scale. However, collective efforts from the industry and government are necessary to establish a robust UK SAF industry and meet the ambitious target of 10% SAF in aviation by 2030. This pursuit promises significant social and economic benefits, with an estimated contribution of £1.8 billion in Gross Value Added to the UK and the creation of over 10,000 jobs.

Virgin Atlantic's Flight100 represents a monumental step forward in sustainable aviation, underscoring the potential of SAF to revolutionise the industry and contribute to a greener, more environmentally conscious future.

The inaugural flight unfolded under overcast skies and serene winds. Positioned along the runway, the Samson Sky team observed with anticipation as the Switchblade gracefully ascended, reaching an altitude of 500 feet. Soaring above the expansive airport and adjacent foothills, the Switchblade maintained flight for nearly six minutes, executing a gentle touchdown to complete its maiden journey. Test pilot Robert Moehle remarked, "The Switchblade handled superbly. I'm thrilled to be the first to pilot it beyond the ground." Moehle, with extensive flight testing experience at The Boeing Company, served as the Test Director for the 787, contributing valuable insights over the preceding months to refine the Switchblade flying prototype.

Global demand for the Switchblade is evident, with over 2300 reservations from 57 countries and all 50 U.S. states. The vehicle's dashboard is adaptable for both right-hand and left-hand drive, reflecting the diverse future ownership base. Sam Bousfield, CEO and Switchblade designer, expressed, "After 14 years of design and rigorous testing, our inaugural flight is a monumental milestone." The Samson Team will leverage flight test data to finalize production engineering and construct multiple prototypes, paving the way for the production of thousands of Switchblades to meet the burgeoning demand.

The Switchblade boasts a maximum driving speed of 125+ mph and an estimated maximum flight speed of 190 mph. Featuring a unique hybrid electric system utilizing unleaded auto gas, the Switchblade offers the convenience of refueling at any auto gas station. With over nine patents issued or applied for internationally, the Switchblade represents a revolutionary concept in personal transportation.

Owners can securely park the Switchblade in their home garage, drive it to a nearby airport, transform it into flying mode in under three minutes, and cover up to 500 miles before refueling, cruising at 160 mph. The two-seater accommodates side-by-side seating, with storage space for smaller travel bags. Its wings and tail fold in to protect them in driving mode, and the engine powers both the wheels on the ground and the propeller in the air.

With an estimated starting price of $170,000 (about £135,000), the Switchblade includes the Samson Builder Assist Program, allowing owners to assemble their portion of the vehicle at the Build Center. No special skills are required, as Samson professionals guide the process. While a Private Pilot's license is necessary for flying, there is growing interest from non-pilots, indicating a broader audience for the Switchblade.

Sam Bousfield shared his sentiment, stating, "Today marks the culmination of many years of hard work and perseverance to realize the vision of a flying sports car." Reflecting on the experience, he added, "Someone asked me how it felt to see the Switchblade fly. I thought about it and realized this is what it feels like when your dreams come true."

For additional details on the Switchblade and to monitor its progress into production, visit SamsonSky.com.

The 100^th customer, Fairfield Inn and Suites in Columbus, Ohio, decided to integrate the WrkSpot platform into their hotel operation for two key areas of support – HR management and panic & safety. "In prioritizing the safety of our employees and recognizing the need for a panic solution, the WrkSpot solution emerged as the most comprehensive and cost-effective choice," says Alan Hardway, VP of Operations. "The Human Resource and Housekeeping modules will improve visibility and accountability, ultimately saving us both time and money."

Launched in 2017, WrkSpot has continued an exemplary rate of growth coming out of the pandemic, working with hotel properties in all industry segments across the US. The 100^th property is a pivotal milestone in the company’s growth – which now supports hotels from coast to coast, both full and limited-service locations. The WrkSpot platform seamlessly integrates with multiple PM systems, allowing individual and multi-unit hotel owners, managers and staff complete visibility and extensive controls within all areas of hotel operations.   

“We are so thrilled to have activated our 100^th customer this past month,” says Brent McMahan, Head of Strategy & Growth at WrkSpot. “Hotels are seeing the value of our product and what makes WrkSpot different - the breadth of platform features and its customizable solutions. Many companies offer parts of what we do, but nobody else offers a complete solution.” 

Key features of WrkSpot include multi-property visibility, activity monitoring for staff, tasks and performance, top-level controls for maintenance, cleaning and HR, budget and scheduling management, as well as panic solution software for end-to-end hotel safety.   

About WrkSpot     

Founded in 2017, WrkSpot is the developer of a revolutionary software suite for hotel portfolio management that integrates HRIS, operations management, and communication in a single app. By managing and engaging staff, controlling costs, streamlining operations, and improving compliance and safety, WrkSpot optimizes hotel operations. To learn more about WrkSpot, visit wrkspot.com.   

According to Allied Market Research, the global vacation rentals market is valued at nearly $80 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach $315 billion by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 12.4% from 2022 to 2031.

More than half of vacation rentals are in resort and rural areas such as Lake Tahoe and Lake Placid, exceeding properties in urban, suburban, small towns, and other areas, leaving a lot of properties vacant outside peak season.

“We know that vacation homeowners leave properties unoccupied 350 days per year when they could earn money. Likewise, vacationers lack an easy way to rent a cottage or cabin to create unforgettable memories,” says David Ciccarelli, CEO at Lake. “At Lake, we want to reunite family and friends to enjoy experiences that happen only at the lake. By booking a lakeside home, families and groups of friends will have a vacation they can look forward to.”

Features and benefits of Lake include:

• Browse cabins, cottages, and homes that are within 15 minutes of a lake
• Search by location and amenity such as chef’s kitchen, fire pit, or diving board
• Read reviews from previous guests
• Book online easily and securely

Property owners, known as hosts, can immediately list vacation rental properties starting today, with free and paid options. 

About Lake

Based in Toronto, ON, Lake Inc. is entering the vacation rental industry with its innovative online platform, Lake.com. Specializing in lakeside properties, Lake.com offers a unique solution for both property owners and vacationers seeking the serenity and beauty of lakefront destinations. The platform boasts a selection of cabins, cottages, and homes, all within 15 minutes of a lake, catering to families and groups seeking memorable lakeside experiences. With a mission to bring people closer to nature and create lasting memories, Lake.com provides a user-friendly interface for easy searching, booking, and reviewing properties, ensuring a seamless and secure vacation booking process. Property owners, or hosts, benefit from the platform’s visibility and reach, gaining an opportunity to monetize their underutilized properties while offering a variety of vacation experiences to guests featured in more than 100 travel guides. As the vacation rental market expands, Lake.com positions itself as a leader in the niche segment of lakeside rentals, contributing to the growing $80 billion industry with its unique focus and commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. For more information, visit https://www.lake.com. 

Not only does the airline have a vast route network with significant hubs in large U.S. cities, but there are many different ways to earn Delta miles that you can redeem for SkyTeam flights. Sometimes, Delta even runs award sales that allow you to snag cheap flights, starting at 5,000 SkyMiles round-trip.

Delta miles are fairly easy to accrue — and they never expire — so we’ll show you ways to add to your SkyMiles balance, including flying on Delta and its partners, spending on travel rewards credit cards and transferring miles from other programs.

Earn Delta SkyMiles by flying

Earning Delta SkyMiles by flying may seem self-explanatory, but the number of miles earned depends on several factors. You’ll earn miles differently on Delta and partner flights — here’s everything you need to know.

Earn miles when flying with Delta

When flying on Delta-marketed and -operated flights, you earn miles based on your ticket’s base price (which doesn’t include government-imposed taxes). Flyers without elite status earn 5 miles per dollar on airfare, not including taxes and fees.

This means a one-way Delta ticket from Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) to Tokyo’s Haneda Airport (HND) with a base fare of $1,100 (before taxes) would earn 5,500 SkyMiles, assuming the flyer has no Delta elite status.

While this revenue-based scheme is used for earning purposes, remember that Delta Medallion status is still partially earned based on distance flown, not just dollars spent. Any flight eligible for Medallion Qualification Miles will earn a minimum of 500 MQMs.

For example, if you’re flying from Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) to Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) in economy class, you’ll earn 500 MQMs, even though the flight only covers 488 miles.

Elite status bonuses

Additionally, those with Delta Medallion elite status will earn at a higher rate than those without it — the higher your status, the more miles you’ll earn.

Here’s how many miles Medallion members earn for every dollar spent:

• Silver Medallion: 7 miles
• Gold Medallion: 8 miles
• Platinum Medallion: 9 miles
• Diamond Medallion: 11 miles

This means a Diamond Medallion would earn 12,100 miles on the same $1,100 ticket we discussed earlier.

Related: 5 things you need to know about Delta SkyMiles

Earn Delta SkyMiles when flying with airline partners

Things get confusing when earning miles with Delta’s partner airlines. These flights sometimes earn miles differently from those operated by Delta, depending on how the ticket is booked.

The simplest example applies to flights booked on Delta ticket stock, which generally happens when you book on delta.com. Even though the flight is operated by another airline, it’s marketed by Delta. So you’ll earn miles the same as with a standard Delta flight.

But what happens if you book a partner flight on a partner airline’s website and add your Delta SkyMiles number? In this case, you’ll earn miles based on the distance flown. However, the exact number of SkyMiles you’ll earn varies based on the partner, fare class and elite status.

Once you’ve found your booking class, head over to Delta’s list of partner airlines, find your partner and locate your fare class. Multiply the number in the “Total Miles Earned” column by the distance of your flight(s); the easiest way to figure out this final number is to use Great Circle Mapper.

For example, a one-way flight from New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) to Mexico City International Airport (MEX) clocks in at 2,090 miles flown. An H-fare economy ticket earns 100% of that mileage, so you’d earn 2,090 SkyMiles for this ticket.

Related: Delta’s loyalty changes are even worse than originally announced

Earn Delta SkyMiles with credit card

One of the easiest ways to earn lots of Delta SkyMiles is through cobranded credit cards — including welcome bonuses and earning on everyday spending. Currently, American Express issues four personal Delta cards and three business cards.

Each one has a different suite of perks and benefits. Some are geared toward the frequent Delta flyer, and others are more suited for everyday consumers who want the occasional free Delta flight.

Here’s a look at the full suite of Delta SkyMiles credit cards from American Express (terms apply):

Personal Delta cards

• Delta SkyMiles® Blue American Express Card: Earn 10,000 bonus miles after you spend $1,000 on purchases in the first six months of card membership.
• Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card: Earn 40,000 bonus miles after you spend $2,000 on purchases on your new card in your first six months of card membership.
• Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card: Earn 50,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases on your new card in your first six months of card membership.
• Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card: Earn 60,000 bonus miles after you spend $5,000 on purchases on your new card in your first six months of card membership.
  

Business Delta cards

• Delta SkyMiles® Gold Business American Express Card: Earn 50,000 bonus miles after you spend $2,000 on purchases on your new card in your first three months of card membership.
• Delta SkyMiles® Platinum Business American Express Card: Earn 60,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases on your new card in your first three months of card membership.
  
• Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business American Express Card: Earn 70,000 bonus miles after you spend $5,000 on purchases on your new card in your first three months of card membership.
  

If you’re a casual Delta flyer, we recommend the Delta SkyMiles Gold card. It earns SkyMiles on all purchases and has a 40,000-mile welcome bonus worth $480 at our valuation.

If you’re considering applying for one of these cards, keep Amex’s once-per-lifetime rule in mind. This rule limits you to one card welcome bonus per lifetime. If you’ve received a welcome bonus for the Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express Card before, you won’t be eligible to receive it again if you reapply for the card. That’s why holding out for a high welcome bonus is so important — you’ll only receive it once.

Related: Choosing the best credit card for Delta flyers

Earn Delta SkyMiles by buying gift cards

As a limited-time offer, Delta is running the following holiday promotion: Buy $400 or more in Delta gift cards and earn miles (terms apply).

• SkyMiles general members earn 3 miles per dollar
• Silver Medallions earn 4 miles per dollar
• Gold Medallions earn 5 miles per dollar
• Platinum Medallions earn 6 miles per dollar
• Diamond Medallions earn 7 miles per dollar

This promotion is only running from Nov. 20 – 29, and no enrollment is required. Whether you want to gift the special someone in your life with a Delta gift card or purchase the gift card for yourself and use it to book your own flight, you can earn extra miles.

Transfer points and miles to Delta SkyMiles

If you need SkyMiles quickly or don’t want to add another credit card to your wallet, you may be able to transfer points or miles from another reward program. Delta partners with American Express Membership Rewards and Marriott Bonvoy, making it easy to top off your balance when needed.

Transfer Membership Rewards points to SkyMiles

Delta SkyMiles has one credit card transfer partner: American Express Membership Rewards.

You can transfer Membership Rewards points to Delta SkyMiles at a 1:1 ratio. However, you will pay a fee of $0.0006 per mile (up to a maximum of $99) to offset the federal excise tax, so the transaction will carry an additional cost.

Often, putting purchases on a card that earns Membership Rewards points will yield more SkyMiles per dollar spent than using one of Delta’s cobranded American Express cards. For example, The Platinum Card® from American Express earns 5 Membership Rewards points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with any airline or through American Express Travel (on up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year).

Here are some popular options for earning Amex points that can then be transferred directly to your SkyMiles account:

• The Platinum Card from American Express: Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases within the first six months of card membership. However, some readers have been targeted for an even higher welcome offer using the CardMatch tool (offer subject to change at any time). Terms apply.
• American Express® Gold Card: Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards points after you spend $6,000 on purchases with your new card within the first six months of account opening. However, some readers have been targeted for an even higher welcome offer using the CardMatch tool (offer subject to change at any time). Terms apply.
• American Express® Green Card: Earn 40,000 Membership Rewards points after you spend $3,000 on purchases on your new card in your first six months of card membership. Terms apply.
• The Business Platinum Card® from American Express: Earn 120,000 Membership Rewards points after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases with the card within the first three months of card membership. Terms apply.

The information for the American Express Green Card has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Related: The best ways to use Amex Membership Rewards points

Transfer Marriott Bonvoy points to SkyMiles

You can also transfer hotel points from various programs to your Delta SkyMiles account. In my experience, the only potentially appealing transfer is from Marriott Bonvoy. These points transfer to Delta at a 3:1 ratio, but you’ll get a 5,000-mile bonus for every 60,000 Marriott points transferred.

That said, we generally recommend using Marriott points to book hotel stays, as you’ll typically get better value.

Chase and American Express issue several Marriott cobranded credit cards if you’re short on Marriott points.

Related: The award travelers guide to Marriott Bonvoy

Transfer Delta SkyMiles between accounts

While you can transfer SkyMiles between accounts, we don’t recommend it. Delta charges $0.01 per mile transferred plus a $30 transaction fee. This isn’t a great deal, as you’d lose most of the value of your miles after paying the applicable fees, and you can only transfer a maximum of 30,000 miles per transaction.

If you decide to go this route, both accounts must have been open for at least 10 days and earned at least 1 mile. Miles earned through the Delta SkyMiles Shopping portal do not fulfill this requirement. You can receive a maximum of 300,000 SkyMiles per year and transfer out up to 150,000 SkyMiles per year.

Related: Your ultimate guide to family points pooling

Earn Delta SkyMiles by shopping and dining

You can also earn Delta SkyMiles through several everyday Delta partners. These methods make it easier than ever to earn miles based on things you already do, like eating out and shopping online.

Earn with the SkyMiles Shopping portal

Like most airlines, Delta has its online shopping portal: SkyMiles Shopping. This site lets you earn extra SkyMiles when you shop online, in addition to rewards earned with your credit card. To use the portal, sign up for a SkyMiles Shopping account, find your merchant on the site and click through the link. Each merchant offers a different number of SkyMiles per dollar spent, and these rates fluctuate — especially around the holidays.

Check the portal frequently for spending and merchant bonuses. In the past, we’ve seen promotions from merchants like Nike, Under Armour, AT&T and others. If you’re going to make a purchase anyway, shopping through Delta’s portal can mean serious bonus miles.

Related: Your guide to maximizing shopping portals for your online purchases

Earn while you eat with SkyMiles Dining

The Delta SkyMiles Dining program is a way to earn extra miles when dining out. Sign up for an account, link a credit card and dine at a participating restaurant, cafe or bar. When you swipe your registered card at these establishments, you’ll earn extra SkyMiles. This is in addition to the miles you already earn with your credit card. Make sure to link a card that earns bonus points at restaurants to watch the rewards add up.

The number of miles you earn through SkyMiles Dining depends on your status in the program, which is entirely separate from your Medallion status. There are three tiers: member, select member and VIP. You’ll become a select member by signing up for email alerts, and you can get VIP status after making 11 transactions within 12 months.

If you don’t give the program a valid email address and sign up for email alerts, you’re a standard member and will only earn 1 mile for every $2 spent. Select members will earn 3 miles per dollar spent, while VIP members will take home 5 miles per dollar.

Related: The best hotel rewards programs in the world

Earn Delta SkyMiles for your business

SkyMiles for Business is open to all companies, regardless of size and annual revenue. However, earning miles is still restricted to companies with at least five unique employee travelers and that spend at least $5,000 in eligible flight revenue every calendar year. Here’s a closer look at the SkyMiles for Business tiers:

• Member: Open to any business, with no minimum traveler or spending requirements
• Plus: Accounts with at least five employee travelers and $5,000 in annual travel spending
• Elite: Accounts with at least five employee travelers and $300,000 in annual travel spending

Related: Airline loyalty programs for small businesses

Earn Delta SkyMiles with travel partners

You can also earn bonus miles when you book other types of travel, like rental cars, Lyft rides and hotel stays. Here’s a quick look at all your travel earning options.

Book a ride with Lyft

You can earn Delta miles when you link your Delta and Lyft accounts. When you take a ride through the platform, you’ll earn 1 mile per dollar spent on everyday rides and 2 miles per dollar spent on airport rides. Business travelers can rack up huge amounts of points with this promotion.

Best of all, once you’re linked, you don’t need to click through a link to earn SkyMiles on Lyft rides. They’ll be automatically credited to your account.

Just note that Lyft also partners with other programs — including Alaska Airlines MileagePlan and Bilt Rewards. Since you can only have one program set as your active loyalty rewards partner in your Lyft account, you’ll want to select the one that makes the most sense for your needs.

Related: Triple stack these offers to maximize your next Lyft ride

Earn with Delta Vacations

Delta Vacations recently made several customer-friendly changes to its program. Here’s what you can earn on travel packages with Delta Vacations:

• 1,000 SkyMiles per person on bookings of up to $4,999
• 5,000 SkyMiles per person on bookings of $5,000 to $9,999
• 10,000 SkyMiles per person on bookings of $10,000 or more

You’ll also now earn additional miles from the flight portion of your vacation packages.

Earn SkyMiles on cruises

Through Delta Cruises, you can earn 2 miles for every dollar spent on your next sailing. However, the platform does offer limited-time bonuses during certain times of the year, allowing to to take home even more miles.

To earn SkyMiles on your next cruise, book on cruises.delta.com or call 800-820-3244 with your SkyMiles number.

Related: How to book a cruise using points and miles

Earn SkyMiles on Airbnb stays

Similar to Delta’s partnership with Lyft, you can earn SkyMiles on eligible Airbnb stays. Just head over to Airbnb’s Delta website, enter your SkyMiles number and click through the link before you make a booking. You’ll earn 1 mile per dollar on Airbnb purchases with no limit, so more expensive trips can rack up a nice haul of SkyMiles.

Related: 15 tips that will help you score the perfect Airbnb every time

Earn SkyMiles when you book hotels

In addition to Airbnb, you can earn SkyMiles with Delta’s hotel booking portal. The portal awards 2 miles per dollar spent on hotels, with frequent bonus promotions. The prices on this portal should match booking directly, but it’s in your best interest to double-check.

One word of caution: You won’t earn hotel points or get to use elite status benefits when booking through this portal. Unfortunately, these are generally reserved for those booking directly with the hotel company. Research and see if earning Delta miles or hotel points is best for your hotel stay.

Read more: 9 things to consider when choosing to book via a portal vs. booking directly

You can also earn SkyMiles when you book directly with Delta’s hotel partners. The number of miles you’ll earn depends on the hotel group you book with — here’s a look at how many miles you can earn:

Earn SkyMiles when you rent a car with one of these partners

You can also earn SkyMiles when you rent a car with one of Delta’s partners. Similar to hotels, you won’t earn rental car points when you elect to earn SkyMiles. Here’s a look at how many SkyMiles you can earn:

Delta elite members are eligible for a free status match with Hertz Gold Plus Rewards. Gold Medallion members receive a match to Hertz Five Star status, while Platinum and Diamond Medallions are eligible for President’s Circle status. You can enroll in this status match on Delta’s website.

You can also read about Delta’s partnership with Turo.

Related: How to never pay full price for a rental car

Buy Delta SkyMiles

If you need SkyMiles in a pinch, you can buy them directly from Delta. The airline charges a whopping $0.035 per mile, more than TPG’s valuation of 1.2 cents per mile. You must buy miles in increments of 2,000, and you can purchase a maximum of 60,000 SkyMiles per account per year.

Delta frequently discounts SkyMiles by offering bonus miles or a bonus on the number of miles purchased. Buying SkyMiles is only worth doing if you have an immediate use for them. Otherwise, purchasing miles speculatively is usually a bad idea, as they can be devalued anytime.

Related: Book a pricey suite or flight for a fraction of the cost: Current points promotions to save you money

Bottom line

There are plenty of ways to earn Delta SkyMiles, whether through flights, credit cards, transferring points or using one of Delta’s many other partners.

Even better? SkyMiles is one of the few loyalty currencies that never expire. And with the myriad earning opportunities outlined above, you’ll hopefully have no shortage of SkyMiles the next time you plan a trip.

For details on the redemption process, check out our guide on redeeming miles with the Delta SkyMiles program.

Ryanair, Europe’s leading airline, and the Erasmus Student Network (ESN) have extended their partnership for a seventh consecutive year. This collaboration continues to provide European students with discounted travel options during their educational exchange programs. Through the partnership, Erasmus students gain access to a dedicated booking platform on Ryanair’s website, where they can enjoy a 10% discount on four one-way flights or two round-trip flights, along with a complimentary 20kg checked-in bag for each flight. Since its inception in 2017, this exclusive partnership has facilitated over 700,000 bookings, enhancing the mobility of ESN students across Europe. Ryanair remains committed to supporting the recovery of Erasmus student mobility and offers these exclusive travel discounts through the dedicated platform on their website. ESN leadership recognizes the importance of this partnership in making mobility more accessible and affordable for European students, ultimately contributing to their personal and professional growth.

Ryanair, Europe’s No.1 airline, and the Erasmus Student Network (ESN) announced that they will continue their partnership for a seventh year, further helping European students to travel at the lowest fares during their educational exchange. Through this partnership, Erasmus students are offered a dedicated ESN booking platform on the Ryanair.com website, where they can avail of 10% flight discounts on four one-way flights (or 2 round-trips) and a free 20kg checked-in bag with every flight booked.

Since 2017, ESN students have benefited from this exclusive partnership which has seen over 700,000 bookings to date. Ryanair is Europe’s most environmentally efficient major airline, has a leading network of 230+ destinations and a record order of 300 environmentally efficient Boeing MAX-10 aircraft.

Ryanair is committed to continuing to support the recovery of Erasmus student mobility across Europe. ESN students can now book their low fare Ryanair flights with these exclusive travel discounts through the dedicated platform at www.ryanair.com.

Ryanair’s Head of Public Affairs, Matthew Krasa, said:

“Ryanair is pleased to announce our exclusive partnership with ESN for the 7th year running, promoting student mobility by offering third level students across Europe a range of exclusive flight offers, including generous discounts and free-of-charge baggage. As Ryanair continues to grow and invest in Europe, we are delighted to support the EU flagship Erasmus programme and the incredible opportunities offered to their student members.”

ESN President, Rita Dias, and ESN Treasurer, Ayberk Yavuz, said:

“The continuation of the partnership between Ryanair and ESN constitutes a significant stepping stone in advancing ESN’s commitment to making mobility more inclusive and affordable for students across Europe. Lack of financial means and uncertainty about additional costs have been reported as one of the largest obstacles to participation in learning mobility, frequently impacting the overall quality and experience of students’ experience.

ESN recognises the value of the partnership with Ryanair in addressing one of the main barriers faced by students. Numerous students have encountered difficulties when deciding to undertake a foreign exchange programme due to a combination of geographic factors and financial constraints. Our partnership with Ryanair provides a means to ease these burdens, namely through free luggage schemes and discounted plane tickets. This can improve students’ exchange experiences, and in addition, make a positive impact on the local economies of the host communities.

Participating in the Erasmus programme is a key factor for the personal and professional growth of young people. Ensuring that this opportunity is accessible to a wide range of students is essential for the future of Europe. We thank Ryanair for their ongoing commitment to the Erasmus Student Network and for facilitating these opportunities.”

Media Contact:

press@ryanair.com

Source: Ryanair

The Embraer Phenom 100 charter jet will also be on display.  Both Emirates B777-300ER and A380 aircraft will have the airline’s newest signature livery.

The A380 aircraft on display, one of the first 10 units to have undergone a full make-over from Emirates’ ongoing $2 billion retrofit programme, will feature the airline’s popular Premium Economy Class cabin, in addition to refreshed interiors and enhancements across all cabins.

The Emirates exhibition stand, open to all Dubai Airshow visitors will feature a number of Emirates divisions. A highlight this year will the employee experience. Starting with Cabin Crew training, the gamified environments set inside Emirates aircraft will offer visitors a glimpse into future simulated experiences, providing a cutting-edge approach to learning and service skills development. Airshow visitors will also get an early look at the revamped onboarding experience for future Emirates Group employees.

The Emirates Official store will also be at the stand selling aircraft models and other popular aviation and travel merchandise. For the first time, the airline’s Airbus A350 die-cast aircraft model will be on sale as a Dubai Airshow exclusive.

The Emirates Flight Training Academy will display its newest and most advanced training aircraft, the Diamond DA42-VI which it received earlier this year, in addition to its single-engine Cirrus SR 22.  Emirates Flight Training Academy instructors will be on hand to provide information about the Academy’s world-class training programme. The Emirates Flight Training Academy is the airline’s state-of-the-art facility that is helping to meet the global aviation industry’s future requirements for skilled commercial pilots.

The Emirates Future Customer Journey will also be featured on a special stand. This is an enhanced barrier-free airport experience for travellers, enabled by advanced biometrics in partnership with Dubai’s General Directorate of Residency and Foreigner Affairs (GDRFA) and Dubai Airport.

On Royal Caribbean, kids clubs include Adventure Ocean, Teen Lounge, and the Royal Babies & Tots Nursery. Here’s everything you need to know about these onboard play spaces — before your kids ditch you and spend all day doing age-appropriate activities with their newfound friends.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG’s cruise newsletter.

Does Royal Caribbean offer a kids club?

The family-friendly cruise line doesn’t offer just one kids club — it offers several! And they’re available on every ship in the fleet.

Royal Caribbean’s Adventure Ocean kids club is divided into three groups: Aquanauts, Explorers and Voyagers. The groups will either have their own space or shared play areas, depending on the ship and the number of kids on board.

Ships also have teen clubs and lounge spaces (including outdoor hangouts) and nurseries and toddler play areas for the youngest cruisers.

Related: 5 best cruise lines for families

What’s the age limit for Royal Caribbean kids clubs?

The Royal Babies & Tots Program takes children ages 6 to 36 months. Some ships offer drop-off sessions, while others offer spaces for parents or caregivers to play safely with babies and toddlers.

Adventure Ocean targets kids ages 3 (and toilet trained) up to 12. It is further divided into age-specific groups: Aquanauts (3 to 5 years old), Explorers (6 to 8 years old) and Voyagers (9 to 12 years old).

Note that on Freedom, Odyssey, Oasis, Wonder, Icon and Utopia of the Seas, Royal Caribbean’s kids clubs are divided into AO Babies (6 to 36 months), AO Juniors (3 to 5 years old) and AO Kids (6 to 12 years old). On these ships, you’ll likely find extra-large AO Kids play areas where school-age children can choose play areas and activities based on their interests, rather than all the kids of the same age playing together.

Related: Cruising with kids: 10 mom-tested tips for smooth sailing

Tweens and teens ages 13 and up can participate in teen activities or hang out in their ship’s lounge and club. The upper age limit for Royal Caribbean’s teen club is 17. Once you’re 18, even if you’re still in high school, you can’t participate in youth programming.

What activities are available for kids in Adventure Ocean on Royal Caribbean?

Activities will vary by ship facilities and by age group, but will typically include a mix of active games, arts and crafts (often inspired by the cruise destination) and video game play. Some ships have Adventure Science Labs for hands-on experimenting, while others have Imagination Studios where there’s always an art project going on. Larger ships might also have the Adventure Ocean Theater where kids can watch or star in shows or play theater games.

Some Royal Caribbean ships, like the biggest Oasis-class vessels, have Play Spaces with climbing structures geared toward the younger cruisers, where kids can explore under parent supervision.

What activities are available for teens?

Many Royal Caribbean ships have spaces reserved for teenage cruisers, but the number, layout and names of these teen lounges vary across the fleet.

On Wonder of the Seas, for example, the indoor hangout is called Social100 and an outdoor gathering spot is called The Patio. On some ships, the Living Room is a place to chill with video games, table games (like foosball) and maybe even board games for organized competitions, and the Fuel Teen Club is the evening hangout with a DJ, dance floor and mocktail/soda bar.

Related: The 5 best cruises for teens

Activities might involve sports competitions, movie watching, video and board game play, scavenger hunts, evening dance parties or karaoke. Youth staff is on hand to supervise and get games and parties started, but the schedule for teens leaves more room for independent hanging out than the more structured program for the younger kids.

What about little cruisers too young for the kids club on Royal Caribbean?

Royal Caribbean offers the Royal Babies & Tots program (or AO Babies on select ships) for diaper-wearing kids too young for Adventure Ocean. Onboard nurseries are outfitted with age-appropriate toys and soft mats for crawling and playing. Many also have a nap room with cribs.

During select times, parents can play in a safe space with their babies and toddlers. Otherwise, they can drop off their little ones into the care of trained early childhood staff.

Related: Royal Caribbean’s new cruise ship aims to be the ideal vacation for young families

Note that Explorer of the Seas, Adventure of the Seas and Jewel of the Seas are the only Royal Caribbean ships without a nursery.

What are the hours of Royal Caribbean’s kids clubs?

Royal Caribbean’s Adventure Ocean runs from 9 a.m. until 10 p.m. The Late Night Party Zone typically operates from 10 p.m. until 1 a.m. Schedules can change based on the itinerary, so check at the kids club when you board the ship for open hours on your sailing.

Often, the kids facilities will close from roughly noon to 2 p.m. and 5 to 7 p.m. to encourage family mealtime. The kids clubs are open when the ship is in port, and kids can attend activities in the nursery and Adventure Ocean even if their parents are off the ship. In these cases, kids in the youth program during lunch hours will enjoy lunch together.

Teen lounges often open later and might not have structured programming until the afternoon or evening.

Are the kids clubs free or does child care cost money?

Daytime and early evening kid and teen club activities are included in your fare, and you do not have to pay extra for these services.

After 10 p.m., kids attending Adventure Ocean, AO Juniors and AO Kids can join the Late Night Party Zone until 1 a.m. at an hourly rate of $10 per hour, per child.

Parents can play with their babies and toddlers in the kids club free of charge but nursery drop-off costs $6 per hour, per child, before 6 p.m. and $8 per hour, per child, after 6 p.m.

Related: Are cruises all-inclusive? What’s actually included in your cruise fare

What else does Royal Caribbean offer families with children?

Royal Caribbean ships offer tons of activities that kids can enjoy with their peers or with their families. Pools, waterslides and splash areas are ideal for warm-weather fun, and all Royal Caribbean ships have rock-climbing walls (it’s a Royal Caribbean signature). Shows of all kinds (musicals, ice skating, comedy, Promenade parades, AquaTheater and outdoor movies) are geared for all ages. Many ships offer miniature golf, ping pong, arcades and sports courts for basketball and other games.

The bigger ships have attractions including zip lines, surfing or skydiving simulators, bumper cars, escape rooms, carousels, laser tag and giant dry slides that will entertain kids and adults.

Related: Kids cruise free: 7 cruise lines offering family deals

Royal Caribbean dining options are always family friendly with kids’ menus in the main dining room and specialty restaurants. Young cruisers will especially like casual eateries, such as Sorrento’s Pizza, Johnny Rockets (burgers and shakes), Boardwalk Dog House (hot dogs) and El Loco Fresh (Mexican) found on select ships. Plus, there’s always free soft-serve ice cream on the pool deck.

Bottom line: Royal Caribbean kids club

Royal Caribbean’s Adventure Ocean, teen lounges and nurseries provide safe and fun spaces for kids to enjoy their vacation with peers, make new friends and give parents some time to do grownup things, like wine tasting and spa treatments (or simply enjoying a peaceful dip in the adults-only solarium). Some kids want to play there all day long, while others might dip in and out for an hour or two and spend the rest of their cruise with their family.

No matter how your children see it, Royal Caribbean dedicates a ton of space and creativity to making its youth programs some of the best at sea. Its varied offerings allow kids of all ages to find their happy places on board and your kids to grow up with Adventure Ocean over years of family vacations, from tot to teen.

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The study from Jerne, a platform connecting creators with experience providers, revealed that a hosted experience on average results in 170,944 content impressions, 16,921 "likes," 913 content comments, an average creator rating of 97% (from experience providers) and an average experience provider rating of 99% (from creators).

Tim Morgan, CEO of Jerne, said, "The creator economy is a billion-dollar industry with millions of people producing all types of marketing content for Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, blogs and other platforms. And those marketing efforts with hotel, cruise and tour companies are increasingly providing marketing cost savings and driving bookings to retail channels including travel advisors, [online travel agencies] and direct sales."

The research also looked at the expectations of the travel providers including hotels, cruises and tours that are providing a hosted experience. Hotels are typically looking for four social media story posts per day, a social media feed/blog post per partnership and five high-resolution images or videos per day. Cruise and tour companies have similar expectations but typically seek fewer images and videos

Similarly, a Phocuswright paper "The Future of Social Media, Influencers and Social Commerce in Travel" said a site visit to a hotel, activity provider or destination is as vital when it comes to trip inspiration as the "fit" of an item in fashion.

"The equivalent of the try-on for travel is the site visit," the report said. "Photos and videos taken on-site deliver far better engagement when compared to textual mentions associated with stock or brand-provided photos. This need for authentic social proof raises the bar considerably for travel brands when selecting influencers and planning campaigns."

The Jerne study analyzed 23,453 partnership applications between 4,723 creators and 325 experience providers between September 2022 to October 2023.

The management consulting firm surveyed more than 1,000 travelers in the United States and Canada in August to learn more about the consumer attitude toward generative AI. The results were enlightening and “exciting,” said Scot Hornick, partner and head of pricing, sales and marketing for the Americas for Oliver Wyman.

“It was surprising how many people have already been using generative AI considering these tools were just introduced earlier this year,” Hornick said. “We didn't expect to find so many.”

The report, which looked at chatbots including Google’s Bard, Booking.com’s AI Trip Planner, Expedia’s ChatGPT integration and Priceline’s Penny, among others, found that more than 1 in 3 leisure travelers have recently used tools powered by generative AI.

The adoption rate was quite high for technology that had been on the market for only about six months when the research was conducted, said Lawrence Burka, principal for Oliver Wyman in transportation and services and pricing, sales and marketing practices.

“But not only was the adoption high, the satisfaction rate was high,” Burka said, noting that the amount of travelers who booked based on AI-generated recommendations was also high.

Travelers who use GenAI find it helpful 

While it’s significant in itself that travelers are using the AI tools that hit the market so recently, it’s perhaps even more impressive that many are finding the technology helpful.

Of the travelers who used one of these chat tools, Oliver Wyman found 84% were satisfied and more than half took most or all of the recommendations provided by the AI.

And it goes beyond just trying the technology. The research found that 54% of leisure travelers already trust generative AI for travel inspiration and planning purposes and 81% of them said they would book based on its recommendations.

There are some features that Oliver Wyman found were more important to travelers, including comparative pricing, the ability to book all trip aspects in a single place and the ability to integrate loyalty programs.

Travel suppliers should consider how to incorporate GenAI

Oliver Wyman’s data also looked at loyalty travelers and found 63% of elite travel loyalty members and 50% of non-elite members would, in the future, choose a booking platform because of its generative AI capabilities. 

With that in mind, Hornick said travel suppliers should be considering the incorporation of this technology. 

“If you're trying to figure out how to drive more direct bookings, and you're counting on your loyalty, elite members or loyalty program members to be your most likely and sticky group that's going to use your channels to book, you better think about whether or not you need to equip those channels with these kinds of generative AI capabilities,” Hornick said.

He cautioned: “If those customers find that they're getting more value from non-direct channels that actually help them plan a vacation or inspire even where they want to go, then that's a possible loss of direct booking volume.”

GenAI is already a focus for travel brands

Generative AI and large language models have been a constant topic of discussion for the travel industry for months. And Oliver Wyman’s research comes on the heels of OpenAI’s first developer conference on Monday, which brought together developers from across the globe to preview the ChatGPT creator’s upcoming tools.

And, according to experts, the level of excitement around AI and its advancements is only growing - part of that is due to how search has changed as a result of AI.

There’s a big shift happening, Pablo Laucirica, regional vice president of advertising for Microsoft, said during a PhocusWire Let's Hear It! LinkedIn audio event. 

“If you think about a year ago, the traditional search experience is you were typing a query and you were getting tons of links,” Laucirica said. “Now we are shifting from searching to finding.”

Tripadvisor vice president and head of data Rahul Todkar said, “this is a pretty big moment.”

Top travel brand CEOs have been open about their experimentation with generative AI. So far, the results seem promising. 

Tuesday in its third quarter earnings call, Tripadvisor CEO Matt Goldberg said its members who are using the AI-powered trip planning tool “generate on average three times higher revenue than the average Tripadvisor member.”

And during Expedia Group's third quarter earnings call last week, CEO Peter Kern said the company recently started promoting its ChatGPT tool, which has been incorporated into the Expedia app and on its website since April. Kern said Expedia is seeing “much more engagement” with the tool - though he added it’s too early to notice a major impact.

Likewise, Glenn Fogel, CEO of Booking Holdings, said during its earnings call last week the company is focused on integrating generative AI into its business strategy. Hotel brands including Marriott, Wyndham and IHG are looking at how to incorporate the tech too.

GenAI could be the future of leisure travel planning

Not everyone will rely on generative AI for travel planning, Hornick said, pointing to someone booking there-and-back trips for work, for example.

But per Hornick’s estimation, this technology could be at the root of travel planning for many in the future.

“I think generative AI will become almost a de facto standard for how [some travelers] think about their travel plans and how they even dream about their vacations,” he said. “I can imagine the family getting around the laptop or getting around somebody's iPad and looking at the recommendations that come out of generative AI and using that as their guide.”

Hornick said it’s “inevitable” that GenAI will become an important piece for “all of the major booking channels.”

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Airbnb created the Plus program in 2018 as a way to identify certain properties for top placement and support. Plus required hosts to apply to receive the designation, and Airbnb inspected properties against a 100-point checklist heavily focused on the property’s design.

The new “Guest Favorites” badge is a more automated – some might say objective – designation. Bunch said that in conjunction with the existing Superhost label, these two designations will “capture the very best hosts and properties. And I think having a third category [of Plus] was just kind of confusing,” Bunch said.

On average, Airbnb said properties that currently have the Guest Favorite label have ratings of at least 4.9 out of 5 and host cancellations and quality-related customer services issues of 1%. The fact that the designation is dynamic can also serve as a motivator for hosts, Bunch said, to address issues that may be hindering their listing.

Also as part of Airbnb’s 2023 Winter Release, the company is redesigning its ratings and review functions. Guest can now sort reviews by date, rating and characteristics of the reviewer – such as those traveling with pets – and to see a chart that shows the distribution of reviews from one to five stars.

And it’s making several updates for hosts, including a simplified interface to add property details and check-in information. Airbnb is also integrating AI to automatically organize photos of listings by room to make it easier for users to understand the layout of a property. And hosts can now connect compatible smart locks to their Airbnb account to automatically generate unique codes for each reservation. 

In Airbnb’s earnings call last week – when it reported revenue of $3 billion in the third quarter this year - co-founder and CEO Brian Chesky spoke of multiple growth opportunities for the company, including international expansion and more use of AI to refine products and services. 

In September, Chesky announced several updates including a new system to verify listings to prevent fraud and increase trust.

Passionate travellers of the time were filled with a heady mix of excitement, curiosity, and trepidation. The prospect of exploring distant lands, experiencing diverse cultures, and witnessing breathtaking landscapes fuelled their wanderlust. The idea of embarking on adventures that were once reserved for the elite was now excitingly within reach for the average person. Travellers dreamt of exotic destinations, immersive cultural experiences, and the thrill of discovery.

The 20th century witnessed several milestones that marked the pinnacle of success in mass travel. One such moment was the introduction of commercial jet airliners in the 1950s and 1960s, which considerably reduced travel times and made long-haul flights accessible to the masses. The introduction of iconic aircraft like the Boeing 707 and the Douglas DC-8 ushered in an era of faster, more comfortable, and safer air travel.

Another significant achievement was the development of the Boeing 747, the world's first jumbo jet, in the late 1960s. With its unparalleled capacity and range, the 747 revolutionised air travel, making it more affordable and convenient for millions of passengers. This iconic aircraft became a symbol of the era, embodying the spirit of mass travel.

Behind the scenes, visionary pioneers and entrepreneurs played a pivotal role in shaping the mass travel industry. One such trailblazer was Juan Trippe, the founder of Pan American World Airways (Pan Am). Trippe's relentless pursuit of innovation and his ambitious vision for global air travel transformed Pan Am into the world's leading airline during the mid-20th century. Under his leadership, Pan Am introduced groundbreaking routes, luxurious amenities, and cutting-edge aircraft, setting new standards for the industry.

Simultaneously, the hotel industry underwent a transformation, with entrepreneurs like Conrad Hilton and Kemmons Wilson revolutionising accommodation standards. Hilton's global expansion and Wilson's creation of the first-ever motel chain, Holiday Inn, made comfortable and affordable lodgings widely available to travellers worldwide.

The era of mass travel represents a watershed moment in human history, breaking down barriers and bringing the world closer together. The anticipation of passionate travellers, coupled with the visionary efforts of key industry figures, propelled mass travel to unprecedented heights. Today, as we jet across continents and explore diverse cultures, we owe a debt of gratitude to the pioneers and innovations of the past, which paved the way for the interconnected world we enjoy today.

There are more opportunities to travel to Antarctica today than there ever have been before, but most people still relegate this trip to the “someday” category.

A bucket list destination for many nature lovers, Antarctica is a remote and isolated continent full of inspiring natural wonder.

It’s widely regarded as one of the most strikingly beautiful places on the planet, with pristine landscapes and a wealth of wildlife thriving in one of the last corners of the Earth that development hasn’t truly touched. 

But with a rapidly warming climate changing the ice-covered landscape and limited space to satisfy an ever-increasing tourism demand, those who wait might find themselves too late to see the continent at its best. 

The following are 20 great reasons to travel to Antarctica now, before your personal “someday” never comes. 

READ MORE: What Is Ecotourism? (The History & Principles of Responsible Travel)

Reasons to Travel to Antarctica Guide

1. The Antarctic Islands
2. Antarctic Wildlife
3. Penguins
4. Seals
5. Whales
6. Dolphins
7. Birds of Antarctica
8. The Adventure
9. Hiking
10. Kayaking
11. Visiting a Scientific Research Base
12. Zodiac Rides
13. Camping on the Ice
14. Taking the Polar Plunge
15. Unique Antarctica Photo Opportunities
16. Luxury Small Ship Cruising
17. Exploring a Relatively Untouched Frontier
18. Because the Climate is Changing
19. The Price Mirrors the Temperature
20. The Future of Antarctic Tourism is Uncertain

READ MORE: 60 Earth Day Tips You Can Use Every Day

1. Travel to the Antarctic Islands

While the mainland is often the primary attraction for people traveling to Antarctica, Antarctic cruises also take in many fascinating islands.

These sub-Antarctic islands can be just as much a highlight of your trip, as they’re teeming with wildlife and a diverse landscape that ranges from ice shelves to volcanos.

The famous Falkland Islands are a true wildlife haven where you can see several species of penguin you won’t find on the mainland (including the Rockhopper, Magellanic, and Macaroni penguin).

Charles Darwin actually spent more time on the Falkland Islands than he did in the Galapagos islands, because these islands are so rich in a diverse array of polar wildlife. 

Elephant Island is much closer to the Antarctic Peninsula. Here travelers get to see first-hand the place where Ernest Shackleton and his crew sought refuge from the shipwreck of the Endurance.

The island is also home to a large colony of Chinstrap and Gentoo penguins, as well as the colossal elephant seal (this is actually one of the best places in the world to find them).  

And then you have Deception Island, which boasts an active volcano and a black sand beach in the middle of Antarctica’s icy waters.

This is where many travelers choose to take the polar plunge, briefly swimming in the frigid sea before burying themselves in the warm sand of the geothermal volcano. 

READ MORE: The 30 Best Exotic Islands to Visit (World Travel Bucket List)

2. Antarctic Wildlife

Wildlife is obviously one of the biggest reasons to visit Antarctica. Despite being the most remote and isolated continent, this is a paradise for a number of species that thrive in a place where human presence has never taken off. 

Antarctic animals roam freely, and visiting the continent feels a bit like you’re living out a David Attenborough documentary. Most of the animals here have no fear of close contact with humans.

In fact, many of them can be very curious. Penguins will often approach as you walk along the beaches, Humpback whales will surface within 50 feet of your boat, and seals will saunter nearby. 

Unfortunately, there are an array of threats to the Antarctic environment, including climate change, overfishing, pollution, and the exploitation of natural resources.

Next, we’ll examine a few of the prominent species of Antarctic wildlife you can still see now. 

READ MORE: 30 Antarctic Animals You Can See on an Antarctica Cruise

3. Antarctic Penguins 

The charismatic penguins of Antarctica are always a highlight of any trip to the frozen continent. These funny, flightless birds are the most common animal you’ll see in Antarctica, with some colonies more densely populated than your average small city. 

The Emperor Penguin, with its bright yellow plumage and impressively tall stature, is one of the most iconic symbols of the South Pole. But they tend spend most of their time inland, which is usually out of reach for most Antarctic cruises. 

You will, however, see thousands of Chinstrap, Adelie, and Gentoo penguins. While these more diminutive species may not have the same star quality as the Emperor or King penguin, you may find their personalities more endearing.

Especially the little penguin chicks, which are often seen during the peak of Antarctica’s cruise season (December through February).

READ MORE: PHOTO GALLERY: Penguins of Antarctica

4. Antarctic Seals 

There are six different types of seals in Antarctica. While they tend to spend a lot of their time feeding underwater, you’ll have a great chance to spot many of them sunning themselves on rocky shorelines or resting on top of ice floes. 

The largest and most spectacular species is the Elephant seal, and places like Elephant Island offer the chance to get up close and personal with the massive beasts.

Since they often weigh in excess of 8,000 pounds, they’re very slow moving, which makes for easy photo opportunities. 

Also keep an eye out for the Crabeater Seal, the cute Weddell Seal, and the Antarctic fur seal. Keep your distance from the fiercest of the lot, the Leopard seal, which is known to prey on penguins. 

READ MORE: 70 Cool & Weird Animals from Around the World (An Epic Guide)

5. Antarctic Whales

Antarctica truly puts the rest of the world to shame when it comes to whale watching: You can spot 10 different species of whales here. 

And when we say “spot,” we don’t mean merely catching glimpse of a tail off the in the distance through your binoculars. We mean drying off from the spray, because a Humpback whale has breached within a few hundred feet of your boat.

The reason you’ll find such a high concentration of whales in Antarctica?

The massive swarms of krill that live in these waters. Look out for the Minke whale, Blue whale, Sperm whale, Southern right whale, and Humpback whale, all of whom are motivated by the invitation of a buffet feast!  

READ MORE: Seeing Whales That Live in Antarctica: A Dream Come True!

6. Dolphins

If you’re a fan of cetaceans, you’ll be pleased to find an abundance of dolphins in Antarctica as well.

Dusky dolphins are the most commonly seen species, especially around Ushuaia, Argentina as you’re navigating the Beagle Channel at the start and/or end of your cruise. 

You should also keep a keen eye out for the Orca. While commonly known as the killer whale, the orca is actually the world’s largest species of dolphin. 

It has been estimated that more than 70,000 killer whales live in the oceans around Antarctica. If you’re lucky you might be lucky enough to catch sight of a hunt, which they often do in partnership as a pod. 

READ MORE: 30 Cool & Weird Ocean Animals Around the World

7. Birds of Antarctica 

Antarctica is a fantastic destination for anyone with a love of birds (or at least a healthy fascination). The continent is home to over 100 million seabirds, which are also scattered throughout the sub-Antarctic islands.

You’ll find fascinating species such as the aforementioned penguins, fulmars, petrels, prions, and the Southern royal albatross. 

While the albatross is an iconic species (its 9.5- to 11-foot wingspan is the largest of any bird on the planet), it’s the South Polar Skuas you should really watch out for.

The skua is a bulky brown seabird that often strategically chooses to nest around penguin colonies. This enables them to swoop in unexpectedly and feed on eggs and newborn chicks. 

READ MORE: 5 Places Where Penguins Live (& Best Times to See Them There)

8. The Antarctica Adventure 

Antarctica is one of those rare, remote destinations where the process of getting there is a huge part of the adventure. 

The Drake Passage is widely considered one of the most turbulent stretches of ocean you’ll ever cross.

However, tourism flights to Antarctica have recently been introduced. Because of unpredictable weather conditions plan on adding a few extra days to your itinerary to arrive and depart.

Once you get there, the adventure never ends. Next, we’ll take a look at the huge range of incredibly cool things to do in Antarctica. 

READ MORE: How Do You Get To Antarctica Without Crossing The Drake Passage?

9. Antarctica Hiking

Most people who travel to Antarctica want to set foot on the continent, so hiking its icy landscape is a huge draw. It doesn’t matter how in shape you are: There are hiking opportunities for practically every fitness level, and most of them are non-technical. 

Whether you’re taking a short walk across a volcanic beach rocky or hiking up a short hill to a glacial lookout, the scenery that surrounds you is so stunning that you won’t even notice the exercise. 

After all, in what other destination on Earth will you have a chance to trek across an ice shelf to a beautiful bay filled with glistening icebergs, passing through the middle of a massive penguin colony along the way?

READ MORE: 50+ Pieces of Advice I Would Include in a Letter To My Younger Self

10. Antarctica Kayaking

If you’ve never kayaked in the open sea before, Antarctica is a magical place to do it for the first time. It’s also one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the exceptional scenery you see from the ship. 

As you paddle through the area’s icy waters, you’ll get up close to towering icebergs and have a chance to explore inlets that are too small for the cruise ship to navigate.

You may find yourself face to face with penguins, whales, and/or seals, getting a rare chance to see them at eye level as they swim alongside you. 

Kayaking is typically a limited activity that you may have to book as an extra. It’s well worth booking in advance if it’s something you really want to do, as this is a popular activity, and the spaces often fill up quickly. 

READ MORE: 15 Harmful Traditions & Cultural Practices Tourists Should Never Support

11. Visiting an Antarctica Scientific Research Base

Visiting a scientific research base is an unexpected highlight of most Antarctic cruise itineraries. Roughly 30 countries have scientific research bases set up across Antarctica.

The scientists based there are continuously studying the climate, wildlife, and geology of the region. And while some might resemble a run-down shack on a hillside, others are slick, modern villages the size of a small town. 

Most cruises to Antarctica offer the chance to visit a couple of research bases, allowing you to walk around the facilities and chat to the staff who work on the base.

This is a great opportunity to gain insight into the realities of human life in Antarctica. It’s from here that you’ll be able to send postcards to friends and family, drink at an Antarctic bar, or add unique stamps to your passport. 

These bases are considered the territory of the country that runs them, so you can easily visit Chile and Russia (and get those cool stamps) in the same day.

Because the political and economic priorities of these countries may shift over time, it’s a good idea to travel now for this experience, while Antarctic research still receives a good deal of funding! 

READ MORE: 30 Amazing Galapagos Islands Animals

12. Antarctica Zodiac Rides

While Zodiacs are generally used as a practical way of transporting travelers from ship to shore, these small, motorized rubber boats also make for great cruising on their own. 

Zodiac adventures allow travelers to access more remote islands, go ashore on beaches, and cruise through channels that are too small for a full-sized ship.

But unlike a kayak, a Zodiac has the power to take off quickly if you spot whales or other wildlife in the distance. 

READ MORE: How To Avoid Products With Palm Oil (Including Your Favorite Brands)

13. Camping on Antarctica Ice

While your cruise ship may have all the luxuries of home– a comfy bed, hot shower, entertainment, prepared foods– some adventurous travelers willingly trade all of that for a night out on the Antarctic ice.

Camping in Antarctica is an incredible way to immerse yourself in the landscape and experience the type of bare-bones accommodation that explorers like Ernest Shackleton endured.

Your camping gear will be provided, but that doesn’t mean you should expect to be issued a tent. Many Antarctic camping excursions require you to hike to the top of a glacier and dig yourself a hole! 

Of course, you’ll be given a sleeping bag, a mat, and a waterproof bivvy bag, settling down as an ocean of stars emerge above.

It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience to watch as the midnight sun sets and allow yourself to be engulfed by the continent’s vast silence. You may wake up to the sounds of ice calving off nearby glaciers, or penguins calling out for their mates. 

READ MORE: What is Glamping? (A Introductory Guide to Luxury Camping)

14. Taking the Polar Plunge in Antarctica

A swimsuit may not be the first thing you think to pack for Antarctica, but the Polar Plunge is a long-held tradition among adventurous travelers. 

Jumping in for a brief dip into sub-freezing cold waters is considered a rite of passage for Antarctic explorers.

Depending on your Antarctic cruise itinerary, you may have the chance to jump from your ship or swim out from the shore of the beach at Deception Island. 

When your warm skin hits those 29º Fahrenheit waters, the adrenaline rush actually prevents you from going into shock.

Thankfully, you won’t spend more than a few seconds in the water, and there’s often a shot of liquor on hand to warm you up as you get out.

READ MORE: Mary’s Hilarious Freakout During the Polar Plunge in Antarctica

15. Unique Antarctica Photo Opportunities 

In this era of Instagram, it’s increasingly rare to come home with unique vacation photos.

From the Grand Canyon and the Eiffel Tower to the Taj Mahal, many of the world’s most iconic destinations suffer from overtourism and the landmarks have been photographed to death. 

But, for now, Antarctica remains a relatively off-the-beaten-path destination that few have had the privilege of visiting. Around 45,000 people travel to Antarctica each year, compared to the five million who visit the aforementioned attractions annually.

So you can take pride in photographing scenes most people have never seen before, such as ice calving from glacier or a kayaker moving through the water in the shadow of a humpback whale. 

These days almost everyone throws their photos up on social media after a trip.

But the pictures you take in Antarctica are the type you’ll actually want to print or possibly even make a photo book from. They’re memories you’ll want to revisit for the rest of your life. 

READ MORE: The 20 Best Festivals In The World (For Your World Travel Bucket List)

16. Luxury Small Ship Cruises in Antarctica

Whether it’s high-rise apartments replacing family homes or a shrinking amount of leg space in economy, the trend these days seems to be about maximizing profits by cramming in as many bodies as possible. 

Many destinations are now buckling under the strain of mass tourism, but thus far Antarctica has yet to fall prey to it. Still, with Antarctic tourism numbers tripling in the past 20 years, who knows how much longer that will be the case?

Small ship cruises– which are generally limited to less than 200 passengers– allow for a much more intimate and immersive experience. It also gives you the chance to enjoy true luxury, and it’s also better for the environment than massive cruise ships. 

Life onboard today’s best Antarctic cruise ships is the opposite of the conditions the early explorers had to endure.

You’ll have access to luxury spas, fitness rooms, fine dining, fully stocked libraries, expert guest lecturers, and outdoor hot tubs that allow you to literally soak in the view.

READ MORE: 20 Best Caribbean Islands to Visit (If You Love Nature & Hate Crowds)

17. Exploring a Relatively Untouched Frontier

Despite the increase in travelers to Antarctica over the last few decades, it’s by far the world’s least visited continent. 

This is one of the biggest reasons to visit now: Antarctica is one of the rare places in the world that still feels largely untouched by man. When you go there, you feel like an intrepid explorer as opposed to a typical cruise ship passenger. 

As you’re hiking across vast glaciers, with penguins hopping alongside you and icebergs dotting the horizon, it hits you that you’re doing things that go beyond the realms of typical travel.

It’s something that very few people in the world have ever had the chance to do, which makes the experience feel truly special.

READ MORE: 40 Interesting Facts About Snow Leopards

18. Because the Climate is Changing

The effect of climate change in Antarctica is more obvious than in other parts of the world. This is not the same Antarctica that Shackleton and Mawson explored a century ago. And in as little as 5 to 10 years, science suggests it won’t be the same as it is today. 

Temperatures in the Antarctic Peninsula have risen by 5º Fahrenheit since 1950. In fact, Antarctica is warming more rapidly than any other region on earth, making it one of the destinations most vulnerable to the effects of climate change. 

The oceans surrounding Antarctica continue to rise as large ice shelves like the Larsen-C break off, and the continent’s largest glaciers continue to recede.

Warming oceans mean that Antarctic ice is melting at an alarming rate– five times faster than it should.

A large part of the continent is gradually disappearing, and in the future major ice breaks could cause huge issues for visiting cruise ships. 

READ MORE: 10 Eco Lessons in Quotes from the Lorax (Dr Seuss’s Classic)

19. The Price Mirrors the Temperature

As the temperature in Antarctica continues to rise, so does the cost of visiting. This is the result of rising fuel costs, as well as an increased demand for tourism to the region. 

In order to preserve the pristine environment, Antarctic conservation laws limit the number of cruise ships and passengers allowed to sail through at any one time.

Since the season for available departures is already such a small window (late October through March), increased tourism demand makes availability more limited. 

Some small ship cruises are already starting to fill up more than a year in advance, and these days most sail at full capacity. So with every year that passes, not only does the price increase, but it may become harder and harder to book a spot. 

READ MORE:30 Facts About Tlingit Art, Culture & the History of Alaska’s Native Tribes

20. The Future of Antarctic Tourism is Uncertain

The governing bodies who regulate Antarctic tourism, such as the IAATO, have strict regulations in place in order to ensure that all tourism is undertaken responsibly, without any adverse effects to the local environment. 

But some environmentalists have argued that the most responsible thing we can do for Antarctica is not to travel there at all.

While this faction is quite small, there is always the future possibility that, for the sake of conservation, visitor numbers may be further restricted or cut off entirely. 

So, as the preservation of Antarctica has become a matter of global importance and international treaties like the Paris Agreement have been enacted to address global warming, the future of travel to Antarctica remains uncertain.

If you don’t visit Antarctica soon, it simply may not be an option when your “someday” finally comes. –by Megan Jerrard courtesy Green Travel Media, all photo by Bret Love & Mary Gabbett unless otherwise noted.

BIO: Megan Jerrard is an Australian Journalist and the founder and Senior Editor of Mapping Megan, an award-winning travel blog bringing you the latest in adventure travel from all over the globe. 

The post 20 Reasons to Travel to Antarctica Now (Before It Changes) appeared first on Green Global Travel.

DidaTravel, a leader in China and Asia Pacific source markets embarked on its global expansion strategy in 2018, and the results since have been exceptional with year-to-date 2023 sales significantly outperforming the same period comparing both 2019 and 2022. This growth highlights Europe’s increasing significance in the companies’ business which now represents over 20% of its total revenue and continues to grow in significance. The top four European source markets for the company are Spain, UK, Italy, and France.

Spain: In the Spanish market, DidaTravel has witnessed an extraordinary surge in growth. Comparing year-to-date (YTD) 2023 sales figures with YTD 2019, the growth rate stands at an astounding 358%. Even comparing the same period of the previous year (2022), the growth rate is still a remarkable 182%. The top five destinations for the Spanish market booked via DidaTravel’s platform are the USA, Japan, Thailand, Italy and UAE.

United Kingdom: The UK is another source market where DidaTravel is making a big impact. Its YTD 2023 sales growth rate versus 2019 stands at an impressive 341%, indicating a steady ascent in its influence in this important market. Even comparing to the year prior (2022), Dida has achieved a remarkable growth rate of 224%. The top five destinations for the UK market, include the USA, Italy, UK, Thailand and Turkey, highlighting the global appeal of DidaTravel’s portfolio.

Italy: Italy has also witnessed a steady upward trajectory within DidaTravel’s portfolio. YTD 2023, the growth rate versus 2019 hit 312%. And comparing 2022, DidaTravel posted a sales growth rate of 97%. The top five destinations for the Italian market, include Italy itself, USA, France, Spain and UK.

France: DidaTravel’s entry into the French market (which commenced after 2019), has been nothing short of remarkable with the growth rate comparing YTD 2022 standing at an impressive 356%. This rapid rise highlights the company’s ability to establish a strong presence in new markets quickly. The top five destinations for French travellers are: France, USA, Italy, Spain and the UK.

DidaTravel’s growth rates across top European markets reflects not only the quality of Dida’s technology and product portfolio but also its client acquisition team which includes the following industry veterans:

Frank Wöller, VP of Business Development, EMEA leads the EMEA client acquisition team. Frank joined DidaTravel in April, focusing on new API client acquisition, with a special emphasis on the UK, Germany, France, Spain, and Italy.

Patrice Vales, Sales Director South Europe. With over 30 years of experience in the tourism and tech industries, Patrice brings a wealth of knowledge to DidaTravel, having held key roles in various prestigious industry companies.

Paul Riches: Serving as a sales consultant, Paul’s experience is helping to develop DidaTravel’s client acquisition efforts across the UK and Ireland.

Jessica Cifuentes: Jessica plays a key role as a Sales Development Representative for EMEA, contributing to the company’s new client acquisition approach across the region.

DidaTravel’s flight business is also experiencing rapid growth. The company’s product portfolio includes 500+ global airlines and 20,000+ routes. In the first nine months of 2023, the airline ticketing business saw remarkable growth, especially in its Asia, Europe, North America, and the UK markets with growth rates respectively of 388%, 195%, 188% and 174% quarter-on-quarter in Q3.

DidaTravel is thrilled to showcase this outstanding growth at WTM, underscoring its commitment to be a leading B2B travel distributor across Europe and worldwide. The company’s dedication to leading technology, global expansion and customer satisfaction continues to drive its success.

Visit DidaTravel at WTM London, stand N10-311, from November 6th to November 9th, hosted at the ExCeL centre in London.

Southwest® plans to begin purchasing SAF from USA BioEnergy’s facility near Bon Wier, Texas, as early as 2028. Additionally, as part of the offtake agreement, Southwest and USA BioEnergy have established a long-term strategic relationship offering Southwest the opportunity to purchase up to another projected 180 million gallons of SAF per year from future planned production facilities.

“This offtake agreement with USA BioEnergy marks important progress in the development of our SAF portfolio and furthers our goal to replace 10 percent of our total jet fuel consumption with SAF by 2030,” said Michael AuBuchon, Managing Director Fuel Strategy and Management at Southwest Airlines. “We look forward to the opportunity to grow our strategic relationship with USA BioEnergy and potentially purchase more SAF from them in the future.”

“Our agreement with Southwest Airlines is a perfect fit because it aligns Southwest’s goal of reaching net zero carbon emissions by 2050 and USA BioEnergy’s goal of becoming the leading producer of carbon-negative fuel,” said David Prom, Chairman of the Board, Co-Founder of USA BioEnergy. “USA BioEnergy is excited to work with Southwest on this initial project and, potentially, future sites we may add in our pipeline.”

Southwest recognizes the critical role that commercially viable SAF will play in the carrier’s strategy to achieve its near-term and long-term carbon goals and is taking action to forge relationships across the aviation value chain to proactively address the challenges on the path to its goal of net zero carbon emissions by 2050. For more on the carrier’s SAF strategy, visit southwest.com/SAF.

Net zero is determined by a fuel with a carbon intensity of zero (0) gCO2e/MJ or lower on a lifecycle basis.

There’s no cheaper and more reliable way to keep tabs on where your things are nowadays than by using Apple AirTags. For a pretty low price, you can keep an eye on where your pets, keys and even checked bags are.

As of this writing, a four-pack of Apple AirTags is available for just $86.88 on Amazon, saving you 12% on the usual asking price of $99.

This is the lowest we’ve seen Apple AirTags on Amazon since the most recent Amazon Prime Day pricing. And, of course, if you stack additional ways to save on Amazon purchases, the price can go even lower.

Buy Apple AirTags at a discount on Amazon here.

Related:

• What it’s like using Apple AirTags for travel
• How to use AirTags to find lost luggage
• Safety tips when using AirTags

At just $86.88 for four tags, that breaks down to around $21 per tag. To put this in context, if you were to buy a single tag directly from Apple, at the time of writing, you’d pay $29 (or $27.88 via Amazon). Four Apple AirTags direct from Apple would set you back $99.

If you want a pack of Apple AirTags at a discount, now is a great time to place your order and save some cash. That way, you have an affordable tool to tell you where that checked bag is — even if the airline isn’t too sure.

Take advantage of this Apple AirTags deal here.

Related: 

• These are the most rewarding cards to use at Amazon
• These are the best carry-on bags
• These are the best fanny packs for travelers
• Must-have travel items the TPG team doesn’t want to live without

Prices are current as of Nov. 6, but may vary after that date.

Accessing an airport lounge can make traveling much more enjoyable by providing a quiet space to work, free Wi-Fi, complimentary food and drinks and sometimes even top-tier amenities like showers, kids’ areas and quiet rooms.

While you typically have to pay for access to airport lounges, several of the best travel rewards credit cards include airport lounge access among their many benefits.

Some airline credit cards, such as the Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard® (see rates and fees) and the United Club℠ Infinite Card, only get you into their own carriers’ lounges.

Others, however, including The Platinum Card® from American Express, the Chase Sapphire Reserve® and the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card, allow cardholders to register for Priority Pass Select memberships and enjoy access to over 1,400 airport lounges worldwide that participate in Priority Pass (enrollment is required). Unfortunately, those with Priority Pass Select membership through an Amex or personal Capital One card do not enjoy benefits, such as statement credits toward food and drink purchases, at restaurant locations that participate in Priority Pass.

With all that in mind, here are the best credit cards for Priority Pass lounge access at airports across the globe and how you can use them to make your upcoming travels even better.

What is Priority Pass?

Priority Pass is a network of over 1,400 lounges, Minute Suites, Be Relax Spas and even some restaurants. You can find them at over 600 airports in more than 150 countries. Many of Priority Pass’s participating locations are outside the U.S., though you can find outposts in major airports like Atlanta (ATL), Chicago O’Hare (ORD), Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW), New York-JFK and San Francisco (SFO), among many others.

Some lounges, specifically, that are part of Priority Pass are actually airline-specific lounges belonging to carriers like Air France-KLM, British Airways, Lufthansa or Turkish Airlines, while others are not associated with a specific carrier. If in doubt, check the airports where you’ll be flying ahead of time on the Priority Pass site to see which options might be available to you and what amenities they have.

Which are the best credit cards for Priority Pass lounge access?

The following cards offer Priority Pass lounge access, though the number of visits included and guest policies can vary widely:

• Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
• Capital One Venture X Business
• Chase Sapphire Reserve
• Citi Prestige® Card
• The Platinum Card® from American Express
• The Business Platinum Card® from American Express
• Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card
• U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve Visa Infinite Card
• The Hilton Honors American Express Business Card
• U.S. Bank Altitude® Connect Visa Signature® Card
• Bank of America® Premium Rewards® Elite credit card

The information for  Citi Prestige, U.S. Bank Altitude Connect Visa Signature, U.S. Bank Altitude Connect Visa, and Bank of America Premium Rewards Elite cards has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Enrollment is required for select benefits.

Related: The best Priority Pass lounges in the world

Comparing benefits of credit cards with Priority Pass access

Here are the details on each card, along with current welcome bonuses, annual fees and other notable perks:

Related: Best credit cards for airport lounge access

Credit cards with Priority Pass memberships

Now that we’ve gone over the Priority Pass-specific perks of each card, here are some of the other compelling benefits each offers.

Capital One Venture X

Capital One’s premium travel credit card packs a punch. First, it offers $300 in annual credits toward bookings made through Capital One Travel. Then, you also get 10,000 bonus miles every account anniversary (worth even more toward free travel). Both of these perks help offset the card’s $395 annual fee (see rates and fees).

Add in extensive airport lounge access (including Capital One’s own lounges and Priority Pass Select), plus excellent travel protections and rental car insurance, and we’re talking about one of the best premium cards out there. It is worth noting, however, that Priority Pass membership from Venture X does not include Priority Pass restaurants and spa services.

On a more positive note, cardholders get unlimited Priority Pass lounge guest access (subject to capacity constraints).

Related: Capital One Venture X Card review.

Capital One Venture X Business

The Venture X Business card offers many of the same benefits as the Venture X card, including $300 in annual credits for bookings made with Capital One Travel, 10,000-anniversary bonus miles and access to Capital One lounges. You’ll also receive unlimited visits to Priority Pass lounges — plus a benefit the Venture X card doesn’t offer: access to Priority Pass restaurants.

Related: Capital One Venture X Business review.

Chase Sapphire Reserve

The Chase Sapphire Reserve is one of the most popular premium travel rewards credit cards, thanks to its impressive list of benefits. Notably, cardholders receive up to $300 in annual statement credits for a wide range of travel purchases.

The card earns 3 points per dollar on travel and dining and also earns bonuses in the following categories:

• 10 points per dollar on Chase Dining booked through Ultimate Rewards
• 10 points per dollar on hotel and car rental purchases made through Chase’s Ultimate Rewards travel portal
• 10 points per dollar on qualifying Lyft rides (through March 2025)
• 10 points per dollar on Peloton equipment and accessory purchases of $150 or more (through March 2025, up to 50,000 points)
• 5 points per dollar on airline travel booked through the Ultimate Rewards travel portal

Ultimate Rewards can be transferred to 11 airlines and three hotel partners. Points may also be redeemed at a rate of 1.5 cents apiece through the Chase Ultimate Rewards travel portal.

The card reimburses members up to $100 once every four years for a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application and waives foreign transaction fees.

Official application link: Chase Sapphire Reserve with 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening. 

The Platinum Card from American Express

In addition to Priority Pass lounges, cardholders have access to Amex’s own Centurion Lounges, Delta Sky Clubs, Escape, Airspace, Plaza Premium and certain Lufthansa lounges. However, Amex Priority Pass memberships cannot be used for non-lounge Priority Pass experiences such as restaurants. Enrollment is required for select benefits.

The card earns 5 points per dollar on airfare booked directly with the airline or with American Express Travel (on up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year) and prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel. Cardholders can transfer Membership Rewards points to 20 airline and hotel partners.

The card also comes with a laundry list of perks, including an annual up to $200 statement credit on incidental fees charged by an airline you select each calendar year and up to $200 in annual Uber Cash toward U.S. Uber rides and U.S. Uber Eats orders, among other credits that provide more than $1,500 in potential value each year.

Cardholders qualify for a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee refund of up to $100 once every four years (4½ years for PreCheck). Booking stays through Amex Fine Hotels + Resorts includes plenty of value-added benefits, and cardholders can register for both Gold status with Hilton Honors and Gold Elite status with Marriott Bonvoy. Bookings made through Amex’s International Airline Program can secure deep discounts on premium economy, business- and first-class tickets on over a dozen airlines, too. Enrollment is required for select benefits.

Official application link: The Platinum Card from American Express with 80,000 bonus points after you spend $8,000 on purchases in the first six months of card membership.

The Business Platinum Card from American Express

The Business Platinum Amex offers a host of annual statement credits, including up to $400 for Dell technology U.S. purchases, an up-to-$120 annual wireless telephone credit and much more. Enrollment required for select benefits.

Cardholders earn 1.5 points per dollar on up to $2 million in eligible purchases in the U.S. per calendar year with:

• Electronic goods retailers
• Software
• Cloud service providers
• Construction materials and hardware supplies
• Shipping providers
• Other purchases of $5,000 or more

They also receive a 35% rebate when redeeming points through Amex Pay with Points for airfare on their designated airline (enrollment is required) or specifically for business- or first-class tickets on select qualifying airlines booked on Amex Travel, up to 1 million points back per calendar year.

The Business Platinum Card offers the same lounge benefits as the Amex Platinum Card above, including the same limitation on not visiting Priority Pass restaurants.

Official application link: The Business Platinum Card from American Express with 120,000 points after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases with the card within the first three months of card membership.

Citi Prestige

Unfortunately, the Citi Prestige is no longer available to new applicants. However, it earns a phenomenal 5 points per dollar at restaurants and on air travel, 3 points per dollar at hotels and cruise lines, and 1 point per dollar on all other purchases. Cardholders are eligible for up to $250 worth of annual statement credits each calendar year toward travel purchases.

Citi ThankYou Rewards points can be transferred to over a dozen airline and three hotel partner programs and are worth 1 cent apiece when redeemed directly for travel through the Citi portal. Cardholders can book a fourth night free on up to two hotel stays per year when reserving through the Citi concierge. They’re also eligible for a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee reimbursement once every five years.

Related: Citi Prestige card review

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card

This card accrues 6 points per dollar on eligible purchases at hotels participating in the Marriott Bonvoy program, 3 points per dollar at worldwide restaurants and on flights booked directly with airlines and 2 points per dollar on other eligible purchases.

Cardholders get up to $300 in statement credits each year of card membership for purchases at restaurants worldwide. They also receive automatic Marriott Platinum Elite status plus 25 elite night credits per year toward reaching a higher tier. Each cardmember anniversary after renewal gets a free night award worth up to 85,000 points at hotels participating in the Marriott Bonvoy program (certain hotels have resort fees). Special cardmember rates on stays of two nights or more at The Ritz-Carlton or St. Regis properties are eligible for up to $100 in credit for qualifying charges.

Finally, this card offers a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application reimbursement worth up to $100 once every four years (4½ years for PreCheck).

Official application link: Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express with 95,000 Marriott Bonvoy bonus points each after you spend $6,000 in purchases on the card in your first six months.

U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve Visa Infinite Card

This card earns 5 points per dollar on prepaid hotels and car rentals booked directly in the Altitude Rewards Center, 3 points per dollar on travel and mobile wallet purchases and 1 point per dollar on everything else.

Cardholders can redeem points for 1.5 cents apiece on airfare, hotels and car rentals (or lower values for other purchases). They can also count on reimbursement for a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application once every four years (up to $100).

Finally, this card comes with up to $325 in statement credits per cardmember year for purchases made directly from airlines, hotels, car rental companies, taxis, limousines, passenger trains and cruise lines, as well as takeout, food delivery and dining.

Related: The best U.S. Bank credit cards

Hilton Honors American Express Business Card

Earn 12 Hilton Honors points per dollar for purchases made directly with hotels and resorts in the Hilton portfolio; 6 points per dollar at U.S. gas stations, on wireless telephone services purchased directly from U.S. service providers, on U.S. shipping purchases, at U.S. restaurants, on flights booked directly with airlines or through Amex Travel and on car rentals booked directly from rental agencies; and 3 points per dollar on other eligible purchases. That’s a lot of earning potential.

Cardholders get automatic Hilton Honors Gold status (Diamond status with $40,000 in spending per calendar year), a free night reward after spending $15,000 on purchases in a calendar year and a second free night reward after hitting $60,000 in spending on purchases in a calendar year.

Official application link: Hilton Honors American Express Business Card with 130,000 Hilton Honors bonus points after you spend $3,000 in purchases on the Hilton Honors Business card within the first three months of card membership.

U.S. Bank Altitude Connect Visa Signature Card

The Altitude Connect Visa added Priority Pass benefits in February 2023. It’s rare to see a card with a sub-$100 annual fee offering lounge perks, but note that you’ll only get four complimentary visits per year. Each visit after that costs $35.

You’ll earn 5 points per dollar on prepaid hotels and car rentals booked in the Altitude Rewards Center; 4 points per dollar on travel, gas stations and EV charging stations; 2 points per dollar at grocery stores, grocery delivery, dining and streaming services; and 1 point per dollar on other purchases. Cardholders also get up to $30 in annual credits toward eligible streaming subscriptions.

Additional cardholder benefits include reimbursement for your Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee (once every four years) and cellphone protection of up to $600 for theft or damage. To activate this benefit, the phone must be on a plan you pay for each month with your card.

Bank of America Premium Rewards Elite Credit Card

With Bank of America’s Premium Rewards Elite card, you’ll earn 2 points per dollar spent on travel and dining and 1.5 points per dollar on other purchases. However, you can earn up to 75% more on each purchase as a member of Bank of America’s Preferred Rewards program.

Cardholders can take advantage of up to four complimentary visits to Priority Pass lounges each year, plus other benefits like up to $300 in airline incidental fee credits per year, up to $150 in annual lifestyle credits for things like streaming services and food delivery and reimbursement for your Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee every four years. You’ll also receive a 20% discount when paying for flights with points using this card.

Bottom line

Accessing an airport lounge before your flight can be a great perk. Rather than paying for each visit, you can use popular travel credit cards to unlock access ahead of your trips regularly — and in many cases, this includes guest privileges, too.

Priority Pass is a great option for frequent travelers, thanks to its vast worldwide network of airport lounges and other facilities such as restaurants. Carrying a credit card that enables you to enroll in Priority Pass Select membership for free and enjoy lounge visits can be a great way to save money and make your travel experience that much better. If that sounds like you, consider adding one of the cards above to your wallet.

Additional reporting by: Emily Thompson, Ryan Wilcox and Chris Dong.

Related credit card guides:

• Best credit cards for airport lounge access
• Best airline credit cards
• Best rewards credit cards

For rates and fees of the Amex Platinum card, click here.
For rates and fees of the Amex Business Platinum card, click here.
For rates and fees of the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant card, click here.
For rates and fees of the Hilton Honors Business Amex, click here.

For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the above benefits are provided by Visa® or Mastercard® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply.

Join me as I stretch out in row one aboard the longest Airbus A380 flight in Qantas’ network. That is, until the superjumbo also returns to LA-Melbourne, which nudges LA-Sydney into second place.

Check-in and boarding

For today’s journey, I’m arriving particularly early for QF12. That’s because I’ve booked a separate flight over from New York, which has to be on a different ticket. Knowing I won’t be able to tag my bag from New York through to Australia, I don’t want to be rushed. Or for that matter, delayed out of JFK, which could risk missing this flight home.

I play things very safe, arriving from The Big Apple at 2:45 pm on Delta. By the time I get off the plane, pick up my checked bag and make my way to the Tom Bradley International Terminal for Qantas check-in, it’s about 3:30 pm. My flight in Qantas Airbus A380 First isn’t set to leave until 11:40 pm. See, I told you – very safe.

But here’s a tip. ‘Officially’, the Qantas website advises that check-in only opens three hours before each Qantas flight from LAX. That’d be 8:40 pm, for QF12. But actually, Qantas operates an early check-in facility here. When I stroll past at 3:30 pm, it’s open – and soon enough, my suitcase is tagged and on its way.

In fact, staff here go one better. I have LA-Sydney booked on one ticket, and an onward Sydney-Brisbane flight booked on a separate itinerary. With a few clicks of the keyboard, my flights are linked up. This also applies to my bag, now labelled as LAX-SYD-BNE. I still have to pick it up in Sydney to clear Customs, but it saves some hassle after those formalities. Once across the Australian border, I can just drop my bag off at flight connections, rather than lining up to check in again.

Back in LA, boarding is easy – and begins with Qantas First. On the A380, Qantas First also gets a dedicated aerobridge. There’s even somebody standing guard at the entrance to that aerobridge, to make sure only eligible passengers enter the cabin. As privacy is one of the big amenities when flying First Class, it’s a nice touch.

Lounging in Los Angeles

With the check-in formalities sorted, flying Qantas Airbus A380 First Class from Los Angeles comes with a great pre-flight perk. That’s access to the dedicated Qantas Los Angeles International First Lounge. Without a First Class boarding pass, it’s a privilege normally reserved only for Platinum-grade frequent flyers.

I’m at the airport many hours before QF12, but use much of that extra time to attend meetings in another lounge first. I amble over to the Qantas lounge at more of a ‘normal’ time – a couple of hours before the flight.

The highlight is the dining room, with an à la carte menu and table service. I know there’ll be supper on the flight, so I treat this as more of a late lunch. It’s impossible to go past the salt and pepper squid to start. For the main, my top pick remains the seared striped bass. It comes with a small herb salad, but adding a wild rocket and parmesan salad makes for a little more variety.

Of course, there’s Champagne served too. Mumm Cordon Rouge Brut (NV) is the default pour, but if you know to ask, there’s also Taittinger (Brut Reserve NV). Actually, I find it odd that Champagne isn’t listed on the menu – you have to know to ask for bubbles in the first place. It’s also a tad strange that even a seat in Qantas First doesn’t grant access to the ‘reserved’ dining room in this lounge. As above, First Class is all about privacy – so you’d think that’d just be standard, especially when the menu in both dining areas is the same.

The lounge offers shower facilities too – handy before any 15-hour overnight flight.

Read more: Qantas Los Angeles International First Lounge review

Qantas Airbus A380 First Class seating

For some airlines, First Class is a signature, headlining product. It’s a cabin that’s as much a statement about the airline’s brand as it is a premium travel experience in its own right. That’s true of carriers such as Emirates, Etihad Airways and Singapore Airlines, with which First Class is both iconic and industry-leading. It’s fair to say though, Qantas Airbus A380 First isn’t quite held in the same esteem.

Now, this isn’t to say that Qantas First is bad, by any stretch. In fact, I’d still rank it as the very best way to fly directly between Australia and the United States. But it comes down to having the right expectations. If you’re looking for closing privacy doors, a shower on the plane and bottomless caviar, well, that’s not Qantas First. But if you’re seeking softer touches like a very comfortable bed and a great lounge to enjoy before the flight, you’re off to a flying start.

So let’s talk about what Qantas First does offer. Nestled right at the front of the Airbus A380’s main deck, Qantas First adopts a 1-1-1 seating layout. And while there aren’t any closing privacy doors, the cabin feels noticeably more spacious than Qantas Business on the same superjumbos.

Speaking of privacy, each Qantas First suite is wrapped in a shell that’s again noticeably higher than in Business. The seat faces directly towards the front of the aircraft for take-off and landing. But once in the air, the chair swivels to angle away from the aisle. It makes the absence of a privacy door less noticeable. And by sitting in row one, that sense of privacy is even greater. You really don’t feel that you’re sharing a plane with 500 other people.

Meals, meetings and sleep in Qantas Airbus A380 First

As you settle in, you’ll begin to observe the suite’s broader list of features. For instance, there’s a TV screen and footrest directly in front of you. But the monitor folds away and that footrest can become a second seat. Use it to dine with a companion, hold an impromptu inflight meeting or invite a friend around for drinks. There’s even a built-in seatbelt for your companion, so turbulence won’t disrupt the festivities.

When you’re instead looking for some ‘me time’, that footrest forms the tail end of your spacious bed. And in fact, this bed is the very reason many people book Qantas First. Unlike in Business, you’re not squeezing your feet underneath the seat in front. Here, you have wide open space – and that applies to the length as well. The bed measures up at 212cm, or just shy of seven feet. Better yet, the crew are always proactive in setting everything up.

Along with a mattress cover, duvet, blanket and dual pillows, Martin Grant pyjamas and slippers are provided – and an amenity kit too. All told, on this 15-hour flight, I doze for nine straight hours. It’s the second-best sleep I’ve ever had on a plane (my record is 10 hours in Etihad First). And for me, that sleep couldn’t have come at a better time.

In the space of barely more than a week, I’ve done some serious travelling. On this journey alone, I jet through Los Angeles twice, London twice, plus Warsaw, Oslo and New York. Oh, and Sydney twice as well. This flight comes at the end of that hectic schedule. And given it’s a morning arrival into Sydney, I return home with no jet lag whatsoever. That, alone, makes Qantas Airbus A380 First worth the premium over Qantas Business.

Food and beverage in Qantas Airbus A380 First

For me, overnight flights from Los Angeles to Australia are all about maximising sleep. But even if you get a good night’s rest, that still leaves half the flight to enjoy the hospitality. Again though, it’s all about having the right expectations. And that means recognising that dining in Qantas Airbus A380 First is a little more ‘Business plus’ than ‘First Class’. In fact, many of the wines and dishes are served in Business too.

It starts on arrival with an offer of Champagne. To save money on tax, Qantas no longer opens ‘the good stuff’ on the ground. Instead, I’m offered a glass of Duval-Leroy Brut Reserve (NV) – the same Champagne as served in Business Class. Mindful to limit my alcohol, I decline the standard bubbles and just refresh with a glass of water for now, alongside a small bowl of nuts.

After take-off, I keep the water going with the canapés, which come before setting up for the meal. One bite is duck rillettes with beetroot relish on crostini, and the other is a single caviar blini with crème fraîche. They’re both delicious, but this ends the caviar – one bite and it’s gone.

I decide it’s time to try the true Qantas First Champagne. Today’s, it’s Pommery Louise 2004 – or at least, it’s meant to be. As it turns out, the ’04 was never loaded onto the plane. Instead, there’s a substitute: Duval-Leroy Femme de Champagne 2002. It’s still a vintage drop, and I don’t mind it. But I’m fussy about Champagne, and I decide one glass is enough. At least though, this isn’t the NV Duval-Leroy from Business that pops up during boarding.

I can’t help but notice though, the Qantas First wine list has at least 10 obvious typos – and that’s just what I spot from a very quick skim. In First Class, attention to detail should be paramount, and for many of Qantas’ competitors, it’s priority one.

Supper in Qantas First

Given the late evening departure from Los Angeles, the first meal service is ‘supper’ rather than dinner. This also takes into account that passengers in Qantas Airbus A380 First can dine in the First Lounge before boarding. But equally, if you’ve not yet had a chance to dine, you won’t go hungry.

To start, there’s a choice between Moroccan carrot soup, tuna crudo or smoked chicken. I don’t mind trying the plant-based dining options, so the soup is an easy choice. Dressed with coriander, it’s perfectly flavourful – and gives me an excuse to enjoy two slices of bread on the side.

For the main, it’s a choice between a chickpea penne, grilled Chilean sea bass, a roasted double lamb cutlet or Qantas’ signature steak sandwich. Lamb isn’t always an easy dish to get right in the air, so I take my chances. As it happens, it arrives perfectly cooked atop a port wine sauce. I spot a 20-year-old cabernet sauvignon on the menu (Howard Park ’03), and it’s a great pairing.

To finish, the chocolate mousse cake catches my eye. I’m curious to pair it with the Lillypilly Family Reserve Noble Blend 2016, as appears on the wine list. But for the second time on this flight, the wine I request hasn’t been loaded. In its place, a drop that’s perhaps more widely recognised: a 2018 De Bortoli Noble One. It still goes down a treat. A praline wraps things up, and then I’m off to doze for my nine-hour recharge.

Just to note though, in years gone by, Qantas First was highly regarded for its inflight degustation menus. Sadly, those tasting samplers are no more – even on daytime flights like Sydney-Los Angeles.

Breakfast in Qantas First

Good morning from above the clouds over the Pacific! It’s breakfast time – and for me, nothing beats a coffee first thing in the morning. I order a latte and it’s delivered in no time.

For the meal itself, I begin with Neil Perry’s healthy Bircher muesli. It comes artfully served in a glass, topped with apple and hazelnuts. On the side, a glass of cold-pressed juice with orange, apple, aloe vera, turmeric, lemon and black pepper. Sometimes though, you also appreciate the simple things. For instance, toast with butter and Vegemite.

As for the main, it’s a choice between custom egg dishes or pancakes. Had I not already had the toast, I’d be inclined to order poached eggs with salmon on toast. But instead, I go for those pancakes. They’re served with a strawberry compote, cinnamon yoghurt and toasted almonds. It’s a tasty way to finish out the journey in Qantas First, even though pancakes are common staples of Business Class dining.

Inflight lounge for Qantas Airbus A380 First and Business

There’s one more feature of Qantas Airbus A380 First that isn’t as widely advertised. That’s Qantas’ inflight lounge aboard the superjumbo. In fact, crew on this flight don’t even mention it as part of their welcome.

It’s easily accessed from the front of the First cabin by taking the stairs to the upper deck. It’s a pleasant space to relax, read, work, dine, mingle or just sit with a drink. But given it’s a little more ‘secret’, I often find the lounge is quite empty. On this overnight flight, it’s deserted. I pop by for a few photos – but like everybody else, I don’t have a need to stay here this time.

The space is also shared with passengers in Business Class. That’s handy to remember in case you’re travelling with colleagues and only one of you manages to snag an upgrade to First.

Service and entertainment in Qantas Airbus A380 First

Back downstairs in Qantas Airbus A380 First, the cabin service is a step above Qantas Business. While still delivered with the Roo’s typical laidback vibe, crew members make more of an effort to engage in broader conversation around the service itself. For instance, when describing dishes, wines and the overall flight.

Having said that, I flew British Airways First from London to New York just two days before this Qantas flight. By comparison, the service on BA feels much more personalised. Qantas crew are still polite, but on this flight, are a tad more distant than I experienced on the airline’s oneworld Alliance counterpart.

As for entertainment, there’s plenty to watch. Over my meals, I catch a few episodes of The White Lotus (thanks for the recommendation, Katie!). Noise-cancelling headphones are provided, but they’re of average quality – and the same given to passengers in Premium Economy too. I always pack my own and they work a treat.

The panel itself is a touchscreen, but given the spaciousness of the suite, it’s usually out of reach while seated. To make things easier, there’s a remote control tucked away to the side. There’s also a separate screen that detaches from its housing in the shell of the seat. You can use it not only to view the moving map, but also to adjust the features and lighting of the seat.

On the downside, Qantas doesn’t offer inflight Wi-Fi on any of its flights between Australia and the United States. In fact, Qantas is the only airline flying between Sydney and Los Angeles without inflight connectivity. In the years gone by, passengers could use the Airbus A380’s inflight entertainment system to send and receive text messages and make inflight calls – albeit at a cost. But even that’s been switched off.

Even though Wi-Fi is less critical on a ‘sleeping’ flight like this, it’s really time that Qantas caught up. After all, with near-ubiquitous Wi-Fi on the airline’s domestic flights, many passengers are now conditioned to simply expect it – myself included.

The verdict

All things considered, there’s no denying that Qantas Airbus A380 First is a significant step above Qantas Business. The seat is more spacious, the dining is elevated somewhat, and when they do indeed load them, the wines in Qantas First are better too. But remember, it’s all about having the right expectations.

First is the best cabin and service that Qantas offers on any of its flights. But this isn’t Suites on Singapore Airlines or First Class on Emirates. Rather than the glitz and the glam, the biggest reason to fly Qantas First, in my view, is the bed. On an overnight flight like LA-Sydney, what you really want is a good night’s sleep. And on that front, it’s okay to have very high expectations – this seat is very comfortable.

As for how Qantas stacks up against the competition, it really depends on the route. Between Sydney and LA, only two airlines offer First Class – American Airlines being the other. I’ve flown First on both, and know that I prefer Qantas on the whole. I do like how AA’s seat becomes more of a window-facing office for those daytime Sydney-LA flights, though.

But more broadly, Qantas First is up against much tougher competition. Especially so on flights from Australia to Singapore and London. Our star rating for this journey (3.5 stars, equal to 7/10) reflects the fierce competition by other airlines for premium travellers, and the amenities and services offered that aren’t provided by Qantas itself.

Still, if you’re wondering whether Qantas First is ‘worth it’ versus Qantas Business, I’d say yes. For me, sleep in the air is everything on journeys like this. Being able to arrive back in Australia from a hectic trip with zero jet lag is reason enough to fly Qantas First again.

Kicking off on 12 July 2024, the Boeing 787 flights will initially run four-weekly until mid-August, when Qantas will dial it down to a thrice-weekly, year-round service. This contrasts with the seasonal Perth-Rome flights, which run three times a week from June to October only.

As expected, the flights will go via Qantas’ international pier at Perth’s Terminal 3/4, offering easy connections to and from Qantas’ domestic flight network. Qantas CEO Vanessa Hudson says the airline is thrilled to put Paris back on the Qantas map.

Our direct flights to London and Rome have been hugely popular and Paris is the next most-requested destination, so we know the demand for this service will be strong as well. Some of the first customers on these flights will be Australian athletes heading to Paris to compete at the 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

The schedule we’ve announced today will add more than 75,000 seats between Australia and Europe each year and we’ll be working with Tourism WA to help make the most of the opportunity to bring tourists here, knowing that direct flights are a big factor in people deciding where to travel.

– Vanessa Hudson, Qantas CEO, 29 October 2023

QF33 and QF34 schedule

QF33 will depart from Sydney at 1:55 pm on Sunday, Monday, Wednesday and Fridays initially, calling into Perth at 5 pm local time. After a 155-minute stop, QF33 continues non-stop to Paris at 7:35 pm, arriving at 6:55 am the next day – a flight of 17 hours and 20 minutes.

The return flight, QF34, leaves Paris at 9:55 am on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. After flying for a shorter 16 hours and 35 minutes, it lands back into Perth at 8:30 am the following morning. QF34 then continues its final tag leg to Sydney, pushing back at 10:00 am and touching down in Sydney at 4:05 pm.

From mid-August, the Sunday departure from Australia (and the return Monday departure from Paris) will be trimmed. But the flights will continue on a year-round basis.

Qantas will fly into Paris CDG Terminal 2A. Unfortunately, the salubrious Qatar Airways Premium Lounge is in Terminal 1, so eligible Qantas customers will be restricted to options within Terminal 2, which will likely be a pay-per-use lounge. The American Airlines Admirals Club and the Cathay Pacific Lounge in Terminal 2 are closed until further notice.

Points needed for reward seats

When reward seats become available on this route, here’s what you’ll need to part with. All prices are on-way and per person. Fees and taxes apply on top as well.

If you connect to the Perth-Paris flight with a sector that’s under 730 miles (e.g. from Kalgoorlie or Learmonth-Exmouth), then you’ll still pay the same number of points as Perth-Paris. Essentially, that connecting flight is ‘free’ in points, and you pay extra fees and taxes.

But if you’re connecting to the Perth-Paris flight from anywhere else, including Adelaide, Melbourne, Brisbane and Hobart, you’ll pay the maximum capped number of points, the same as Sydney-Perth-Paris.

Those connecting flights can be up to 6,100 miles long, so you could connect from anywhere in Australia or the South Pacific (including New Zealand, Fiji and Vanuatu) to Paris via Perth and still only pay no more than 144,600 points + fees and charges in Business Class.

Summing up

At the time of writing, Qantas hasn’t offered any major release of reward seats on the new Perth-Paris route. As it’s launching just ahead of the Olympics, demand will be high, and Qantas is not putting on a Points Plane either. But you can now book these fares with cash, starting from $1,899 return in Economy from Perth.

Those looking to spice up their Perth-Sydney commute can book the domestic tag legs of QF33 and QF34 on the days they depart. The main benefit for Platinum frequent flyer members is access to the Qantas International First Lounge in Sydney. On the other end, Qantas Club members and Qantas Gold (and higher) frequent flyer members can enjoy breakfast in the Qantas International Lounge in Perth T3/T4.

However, the cost of this is that Qantas will trim back QF9/10 to become a Perth-London route only, scrapping the Melbourne-Perth and its return Perth-Melbourne domestic tag leg on the Boeing 787 Dreamliner.

Qantas’ latest route is another high-profile launch amidst the backdrop of various PR battles. But now that Qantas and Perth Airport’s relationship is on the mend, we could see the return of other important routes, such as Perth-Johannesburg, resulting in more options for its passengers.

This post is brought to you in partnership with Australian Wildlife Journeys. But our opinions remain our own, and we will never compromise the integrity of our responsible travel mission.

For most of us, a dream vacation to Australia conjures up images of one-of-a-kind wildlife that is endemic to the continent, as well as the array of ocean animals that swim offshore.

A trip Down Under simply wouldn’t be complete without some sort of sensational animal spotting.

Australian vacations can be an equally amazing opportunity to spot these amazing animals while also helping the wildlife conservationists working to preserve them for future generations to enjoy.

When you pursue Australian wildlife encounters with conservationists as your guides, the experience automatically comes with a wealth of interesting knowledge and know-how.

After all, these passionate folks spend their professional lives studying and protecting the animals they love!

In short, meeting up with wildlife conservationists adds an unforgettable element to any vacation to Australia. Their professional guidance adds so much more appreciation for the animals and color to the experience.

Fortunately, it’s an easy thing to do. Lots of environmental organizations offer awesome options for traveling Australia while also putting money towards the conservation of Australian animals.

Australian Wildlife Journeys is a fantastic place to begin the search, and what follows is a guide to five of their top conservation-focused tours…

1.Ultimate Hervey Bay Whale Watching

Queensland’s warm, shallow Hervey Bay is the first official Whale Heritage Site in the world. Thousands of Humpback Whales visit its waters every year between July and October.

The Humpback Whales in Hervey Bay are renowned for being extraordinarily active. Breaches, tail slaps, and whale songs are very common here.

Hervey Bay is famed for its whale “muggings,” which is when whales are so curious that they stay near the vessel. By regulation, captains must wait for them to be at least 100 meters away before using the engines.

This bay is part of the Great Sandy Marine Park, so it also has plenty of Sea Turtles, Dolphins, Dugongs, and sea birds to see during your visit.

The Pacific Whale Foundation is an international NGO that has been conducting research in Hervey Bay for 30+ years now. In 2011, Pacific Whale Foundation Eco-Adventures Australia was founded as a subsidiary.

All proceeds from Australian whale watching tours hosted by PWFEAA go to support researching Dolphins and Whales, educating children about marine life, and conserving oceans around the world.

Led by Dr. Barry McGovern, their Ultimate Hervey Bay Tour is a 3-hour journey that departs three times a day during the season.

The trip includes using underwater hydrophones for listening to whale songs live, with Dr. McGovern helping to explain the sounds in their songs.

2. Pelican Lagoon Research Centre on Kangaroo Island

Kangaroo Island is Australia’s third largest island, measuring 93 miles at its longest by 56 miles at its widest. 

Over a third of Kangaroo Island is protected by national and conservation parks, so vacationing in Australia doesn’t get much wilder than this.

Much of the island’s habitat is woodland and mallee, a type of low-growing eucalyptus. It provides ideal homes for all sorts of wildlife, including Kangaroos, Wallabies, Echidnas, and Bandicoots.

The island is also a top spot for birdwatchers visiting Australia: Over 260 species of bush birds, water birds, and raptors have been seen in the region.

Exceptional Kangaroo Island is an award-winning tour operator with 30+ years of service. Their guides are connected throughout the island, offering visitors plenty of wildlife between stories, local wines, and fine meals.

Kangaroo Island Immersion and Kangaroo Island Wildlife Photograph Tours are two of Exceptional Kangaroo Island’s tours that include visits to Pelican Lagoon, a seawater lagoon on the island’s northern end.

The Pelican Lagoon Research & Wildlife Centre has been a bastion of Echidna research on Kangaroo Island.

Interested participants can take a bush walk with Dr. Peggy Rismiller, an Echidna expert who has been working with these elusive loners since 1988.

3. Australian Quoll Conservancy in Far North Queensland 

Far North Queensland is perhaps the place to go as an animal enthusiast visiting Australia. The wet tropics there are teeming with wildlife, making it a once-in-a-lifetime vacation in Australia for animal lovers.

This region is dominated by the Cape York Peninsula, which is accessed from the city of Cairns.

The area boasts three UNESCO World Heritage Sites– the Great Barrier Reef, the Wet Tropics of Queensland, and Riversleigh. There are also a whopping 70 Australian National Parks!

Animals commonly seen in Far North Queensland include Saltwater Crocodiles, Duck-billed Platypuses, Tree Kangaroos, Flying Foxes, Wallabies, and Southern Cassowaries.

FNQ Nature Tours offers a 4-Day Nature, Wildlife, & Conservation Safari that tours the Wet Tropics Heritage site.

Guests on the tour will hook up with Alberto Vale, the president of the Australian Quoll Conservancy, which works to save all four of Oz’s species of Quoll.

Quolls are carnivorous, nocturnal marsupials endemic to Australia and Papua New Guinea. The Tiger Quoll (a.k.a. Spotted Quoll) is native to Far North Queensland, and other spots along Australia’s East Coast.

4. Explore Marine Biology with Naturaliste Charters

Australia gets tons of attention for its unique land-based fauna, but Aussie wildlife isn’t just terrestrial. This is the “island continent,” after all, and the waters around it are incredibly rich with marine mammals.

Whales are a big attraction for many Australia visitors, and most tours that seek out Whales also get a nice dose of Dolphins, Seals, Sharks, and massive seabirds.

In our experience, a trip to Australia isn’t complete without a few aquatic detours along the way!

Some of the whales frequently spotted along the Australian seashore include Orcas, Humpback Whales, and Southern Right Whales. Blue Whales and Minke Whales are also known to brush past Western Australia.

Naturaliste Charters offer up a trio of awesome whaling tours on the continent’s west coast:

1. Bremer Canyon Killer Whale Expedition specializes in Orcas from January through April. Over 100 “Killer Whales” return to the Bremer Canyon every year.
2. Dunsborough Whale Watching looks for Humpbacks, Southern Right Whales, and those massive Blue Whales from late August through November.
3. Augusta Whale Watching shows off Australia’s Humpback Whales from May to August, with high hopes of seeing calving Southern Right Whales in July and August.

Marine biologist Bianca Uyen teaches Naturaliste Charters’ guests about using facial recognition programs for identifying individual whales, as well as recording the movements of Blue Whales.

5. Echidna Walkabout Nature Tours 

East Gippsland is where the cold Southern Ocean meets the warm Southern Pacific at the eastern corner of the state of Victoria. This combination creates one of the most diverse ecosystems in one tiny area.

East Gippsland has an alpine area in Snowy River National Park, giant eucalyptus groves, lush rainforests, and bird-laden estuaries in the Gippsland Lake District. All this diversity in landscape, of course, means lots of unique animals for visitors to see.

In this region, Parrots, Cockatoos, and Cuckoos are common. Kangaroos and Wallabies are often seen hopping about. Koalas and Possums play in the trees, while Wombats and Quolls explore the forest floor. 

Mungo National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for the historic Mungo Lady and Mungo Man, as well as the incredible wildlife that lives there. In our opinion, it’s one of the top Australia vacation spots.

Echidna Walkabout Nature Tours has been guiding visitors through these regions for decades now, and the founders of the company are also expert conservationists.

On their Mungo Outback Journey, Roger Smith leads guests through Mungo National Park, pointing out the effects of climate change while exploring riverine ecosystems and spotting Kangaroos, Emus, Parrots, and more.

Janine Duffy hosts folks on the Koala Recovery Experience and Post Bushfire Surveys in the East Gippsland region, involving travelers in their important conservation work. –by Jonathon Engels; all photos provided by Australian Wildlife Journeys

The post 5 Ways to Connect with Wildlife Researchers on Australia Vacations appeared first on Green Global Travel.

Penguins are one of the most popular animals on the planet, and have been ever since movies like March of the Penguins and Happy Feet came out in 2005-2006. 

But how much do you know about these beloved flightless birds? Do you know where penguins live, what they eat, how fast they can swim, or that they date back more than 60 million years?!

The 17 different species of penguins can be found on every continent in the Southern Hemisphere– Africa, Antarctica, Australia and South America. 

While most people associate these funny flightless waterfowl with the cold climate of Antarctica and the sub-Antarctic islands, they’re also seen as far north as the coasts of Namibia, Brazil, and the Galapagos Islands. 

Read on for a look at the broad variety of places around the world where penguins live, as well as the best times of year to see them there…

READ MORE: 30 Cool & Weird Ocean Animals Around the World

Where Do Penguins Live Guide

1. Antarctica & The Antarctic Islands
2. Australia/New Zealand
3. Argentina/Chile
4. Galapagos Islands
5. South Africa

READ MORE: 70 Cool & Weird Animals Around the World (An Epic Guide)

1. ANTARCTICA & THE ANTARCTIC ISLANDS

If you’ve ever seen March of the Penguins, you probably imagine the penguins of Antarctica all huddled together is massive colonies to shield their eggs from a blinding blizzard.

While that’s certainly a reality of life for some penguin species, it’s much easier for travelers to visit them during the Antarctic summer, when daytime temperatures often get into the 40s. 

Antarctica is home to four different species of Penguin, each of which has their own preferred habitat.

Emperor Penguins typically breed on pack ice and shelf ice (usually between the 66° and 77° south latitudes). But several breeding colonies have been found on land in recent years, including one at Amundsen Bay and another at Taylor Glacier in Victoria Land.

Chinstrap Penguins, Gentoo Penguins, and Adelie Penguins are all closely related and commonly seen.

Look for them nesting on rocks relatively close to shore on both the mainland and numerous Antarctic and sub-Antarctic islands, including the Danger Islands, the Falklands, and South Georgia Islands.

The King Penguin is second only to the Emperor Penguin among the world’s largest penguins. They’re also one of the most plentiful penguin species, with an estimated 2.3 million breeding pairs.

Though you won’t see them on the mainland, they can be found on sub-Antarctic islands such as South Georgia, the Kerguelen Islands, Crozet Island, Prince Edward Islands, and more. 

READ MORE: PHOTO GALLERY: Penguins of Antarctica

WHEN TO SEE PENGUINS IN ANTARCTICA

Because of their location in the extreme southern part of the planet, the climate of Antarctica and the Antarctic Islands are relatively inhospitable to humans for the vast majority of the year.

But summer in the Southern Hemisphere, which lasts from December through March, finds daily high temperatures soaring into the 40s (and occasionally even the 50s).

The region gets almost 24 continuous hours of daylight during this time, allowing plenty of time to explore the highlights of Antarctica.

The melting away of coastal ice makes shore landings considerably easier. It’s also a great time to see baby penguin chicks at their fuzziest, snuggling against their mom to sleep or feasting on regurgitated tidbits from her gullet. 

Cruising Antarctica, South Georgia & the Falkland Islands allows you to see Gentoo, Magellanic, and Rockhopper Penguins in the Falklands; King and Macaroni Penguins in South Georgia; a massive Chinstrap Penguin colony on Elephant Island; and Adelie, Chinstrap, and Gentoo Penguins on the Antarctic Peninsula. 

Of course, there will also be plenty of other Antarctic wildlife along the way, from Humpback Whales and Orcas and numerous species of seals to seabirds such as albatross, kelp gulls, giant petrels, skuas, and more. 

READ MORE: 30 Antarctic Animals You Can See on an Antarctica Cruise

2. AUSTRALIA/NEW ZEALAND

Once you get away from Antarctica, most of the places where penguins live are rocky islands and dry, desert-like environments where their inability to fly doesn’t make them vulnerable to land-based predators.

Though most people think of Australia as dry and dusty, it’s also home to the Little Penguin, which is affectionately known locally as the Fairy Penguin due to its diminutive size.

These adorable beauties can be found across the continent’s southern coast, including Sydney’s North Harbour, Tasmania, Victoria, and countless nearby islands (including, naturally, Penguin Island).

In New Zealand, they’re called Little Blue Penguins (or kororā among the Māori people).

New Zealand is also home to the Yellow-Eyed Penguin (mainland, Auckland, Campbell, and Stewart Islands); Fiordland Penguin (Open Bay, South, and Stewart Islands); and Snares Penguin (a crested species found only in the Snares Islands).

Royal Penguins– which have the colorful crest of a Macaroni Penguin, but a white face and chin– inhabit the waters all around Antarctica.

But they generally only breed on New Zealand’s sub-Antarctic Macquarie Island, where you’ll find several hundred thousand mating pairs. 

READ MORE: 20 Weird & Cute Australian Animals

WHEN TO SEE PENGUINS IN NEW ZEALAND

The southern coast of New Zealand’s South Island may not be as cold as Antarctica, but temperatures can get as low as 14º Fahrenheit in winter (July is the coldest month).

So it’s best if you can plan your visit in January or February, the warmest months in the southern hemisphere. The average temperature then is around 48º, with highs often reaching into the 60s. 

When you’re packing, remember New Zealand can have four seasons in one day. Though temperature variations during the day aren’t typically extreme, the weather can change quickly with cold fronts or high winds blowing in.

Expeditions to the Sub-Antarctic Islands of New Zealand often explore South Island highlights such as Fiordland National Park as well as the Aucklands, Campbell, Macquarie, the Snares, Stewart, and more.

Travelers can hope to see colonies of Gengtoo, King, Rockhopper, and Royal Penguins, as well as endemic species such as Snares and Yellow-eyed Penguins.

READ MORE: 10 Awesome Australian Road Trips (For Your World Travel Bucket List)

3. ARGENTINA/CHILE

The southernmost countries in South America– a.k.a. Patagonia– are home to four different penguin species. 

Humboldt Penguins (a.k.a. Peruvian Penguins) are found on the continent’s west side, from Chile all the way up to the coast of Peru.  They’re named after the cold water current in which they swim (which was named for explorer Alexander von Humboldt).

You can  identify them by the white border that runs from behind their eyes and around their ear-coverts, joining at the throat. They’re closely related to Magellanic Penguins, with whom they share some range. 

Named after the famous Portuguese explorer, Magellanic Penguins have a massive range that extends from southern Chile and Argentina to the Falkland Islands and as far north as Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

You may spot them swimming in large flocks, diving up to 50 meters to feed on cuttlefish, squid, krill, and other crustaceans. You’ll also like see vast breeding colonies, with nests about 5 meters apart under bushes or in burrows. 

The Southern Rockhopper Penguin, one of two Rockhopper subspecies, is the smallest of the crested penguins. They’re typically found on the islands off the coasts of Argentina and Chile as well as the Falklands.

(Their Eastern Rockhopper cousins are found on the subantarctic islands, including the Aucklands, Campbells, Crozets, Prince Edward, and Macquarie.)

The King Penguin is most commonly associated with the sub-Antarctic islands. But there’s also an impressive colony in Tierra del Fuego, where they have their own protected sanctuary (Pingüino Rey Park). 

READ MORE: The 20 Best Things to Do in Patagonia (South America)

WHEN TO SEE PENGUINS IN PATAGONIA

As with Antarctica and Australia, summer (December through March) is arguably the best time to visit Argentina and Chile.

It can still get down to freezing temperatures at night, but days are mostly sunny with occasional gusts of strong wind. The further north you go into Patagonia, the warmer it usually is in the spring and autumn months.

Some eco-tour companies offer Patagonia expeditions that visit Torres del Paine National Park, Tierra del Fuego, and cross the Strait of Magellan. You’ll likely see a King Penguin colony, a Magellanic Penguin colony, and countless other bird species along the way.

Immersive Patagonia overlanding experiences may also include visits to the accessible King Penguin colony at Parque Pinguino Rey, as well as a boat ride to the famous Magellanic Penguin rookery on Magdalena Island. 

READ MORE: The 20 Best Places to Visit in South America

4. GALAPAGOS ISLANDS

Located some 850 miles from mainland Ecuador, the Galapagos Islands is one of the only places in the world where travelers have a fairly decent chance to swim with penguins. 

Though they’re the most rare and endangered penguin species on the planet, you’re virtually guaranteed to see Galapagos Penguins on the western islands of Fernandina and Isabela (especially around Tagus Cove).

But you may also see small populations on Floreana, northern Santa Cruz, and Santiago Island. You’ll usually see them sunning themselves on the shore, or shooting like rockets underwater in search of a snack.

My favorite encounter came during a cruise off the coast of Bartolome, which is home to Pinnacle Rock. A pair of curious penguins hopped into the water beside our group of snorkelers, and swam with us for 20+ minutes!

If you do get an opportunity to go swimming with Galapagos Penguins during your visit to the islands, you’re VERY lucky: Our local guide said it had only happened to her once in 17 years of working in the archipelago!

READ MORE: 30 Amazing Galapagos Islands Animals

WHEN TO SEE PENGUINS IN THE GALAPAGOS

Of all the places in the world where travelers can hope to see penguins in the wild, the Galapagos Islands is the one where weather considerations are not a major factor.

Due to its location on the Equator, the archipelago is fairly warm all year round, with high temperatures in the 70s to 80s and lows rarely dipping below 65º. 

But if you want to swim with Galapagos Penguins, consider the water temperatures. They’re at their lowest– averaging 70-71º– from July through September, with an average of 76 to 77º from January through April.

But even when the water is cool, most snorkeling tours come with insulated wetsuits to ensure your comfort. 

Many tours of the archipelago Darwin made famous include daily snorkeling opportunities. And with stops at Isabela, Fernandina, and Bartolome, you’re virtually guaranteed to see the world’s rarest penguins!

READ MORE: Galapagos Birds: 25 Spectacular Species You Can See on a Galapagos Cruise

5. SOUTH AFRICA

When most people think of South Africa, they tend to think of Nelson Mandela, Big 5 wildlife safaris, and the scenic wine country around Cape Town.

But the country’s coastlines are also home to the African Penguin, which has become increasingly popular with tourists in recent years.

Their habitat spreads all the way around the southern coast from Algoa Bay, near Port Elizabeth, up to northern Namibia, with colonies on both the mainland and 24 different islands (including the Penguin Islands).

Boulders Beach, near Simon Town, is one of the best places to see them. And because the colony is habituated to human presence, it is also possible to swim with penguins there. 

Sadly, like its Galapagos cousin, the African Penguin is currently endangered due to exploitation, oil spills, and depletion of their favorite prey, anchovy and sardines.

Their total population is down from 1.5 million in the early 20th century to just over 50,000 today. So, if you do see these penguins in the wild, please be respectful and keep your distance from their nests. 

READ MORE: The 20 Safest Countries in Africa to Visit

WHEN TO SEE PENGUINS IN SOUTH AFRICA 

Much like the Galapagos, South Africa’s weather is generally good no matter what time of year you choose to visit.

Temperatures in Kruger National Park during the dry season (April to September) range from the high 40s at night to the mid-80s during the day. But June is the coldest month in Cape Town, with average temperatures of 55º. 

If you want a chance of swimming with African Penguins on the country’s southwest coast, visit in February (the hottest month, with an average temperature of 73°) or late August/September, when highs are in the low 70s.

Some South African eco-tours take visitors all across the continent’s southernmost country, from Cape Town east to Tswalu Kalahari Game Reserve and the traditional safari experience of Timbavati Game Reserve.

Look for one that includes a visit to the African Penguin colony at Stoney Point, as well as the “oceanic Big 5” at Walker Bay in Gansbaai. –Bret Love 

The post 5 Places Where Penguins Live (& Best Times to See Them There) appeared first on Green Global Travel.

The life and death of Jesus Christ– the religious leader said to be born of a virgin, who performed miracles throughout his life, and whom the Romans crucified for his beliefs story has been performed since 1634 as the Oberammergau Passion Play. 

Jesus of Nazareth became the central figure of Christianity, in which he’s believed to have been the long-awaited Messiah (Christ) that the Old Testament had prophesied.

After his tragic, untimely death, his spiritually driven life inspired four gospels written by his apostles and defined many of Christianity’s central doctrines and teachings. 

Nearly 2000 years after his crucifixion, the story of Jesus Christ continues to be re-enacted around the Easter holiday every year, all across the Christian world. 

But once every 10 years in a small Bavarian town, a truly unique event occurs: An entire German village of over 2,000 people takes to the stage.

It’s known as the Oberammergau Passion Play, and the massive production has become world renowned, drawing over half a million people who travel to see the biggest, most elaborate passion play in the world. 

READ MORE: German Christmas Cookies- Lebkuchen Recipe (aka German Gingerbread)

Oberammergau Passion Play Guide

• The Passion of Jesus Christ
• The Crucifixion
• The Passion Play In Oberammergau Germany
• The History Of The Oberammergau Passion Play
• Oberammergau Passion Play History
• Things To Do in Oberammergau, Germany

READ MORE: The 20 Best Cultural Festivals Around the World

THE PASSION OF JESUS CHRIST

The Passion of Jesus Christ refers to the final period of his life, from the moment when he triumphantly entered Jerusalem to cheering crowds on Palm Sunday up until his crucifixion on Mount Calvary.

In this case, the term passion refers to an account of the physical suffering and death of a Christian martyr (from the Latin passio, which means “to endure” or “to suffer”). 

Christ’s passion is considered among Christians to be the passion, and centers around the climatic event of his suffering on the cross, culminating in his ultimate sacrifice and salvation.

Passion plays are reenactments of important life events, and the Passion of Jesus has been brought to life in many forms of art throughout history.

You can see it portrayed in ancient frescoes, in stained glass windows, and inspiring books and films (including Mel Gibson’s controversial 2004 biblical drama, which graphically portrayed the violent brutality of Christ’s suffering). 

The Passion of Christ as we know it today has been taken from accounts recorded in the Bible’s books of Matthew (26:36–27:56), Mark (14:32–15:41), Luke (22:39–23:49), and John (18:1–19:37).

Collectively, it tells the story of Jesus’ arrest, trial, suffering, and death. It does not typically include the details of his resurrection. 

The story begins the night prior to his crucifixion and covers events such as his agony in the Garden of Gethsemane, his betrayal by Judas Iscariot, abandonment and denial by his disciples, and his arrest by the Sanhedrin priests.

It also covers his trials: The Gospels record that seven different trials took place at the hands of the Roman and Jewish authorities who ruled Israel at the time, though the most famous was his ultimate trial before Pontius Pilate. 

READ MORE: 30 Symbols of Christmas: The History & Meaning of Traditional Christmas Decorations

THE CRUCIFIXION 

The final part of the Oberammergau Passion Play is arguably the most difficult to watch, as it portrays the increasingly violent beatings Jesus received, and his final hours spent nailed on the cross.

Roman crucifixion at the time involved three nails, with one driven into each hand (or wrist), and one through both ankles as a way to secure the person’s feet. While Jesus hung from the cross, Roman soldiers pierced his sides. 

This passion narrative is commemorated around the world during Holy Week– the week before Easter, starting on Palm Sunday– which is the most solemn week of the year for Christians.

Countless churches, schools, and communities remember the passion, death, and resurrection.

On Good Friday, people flood into Catholic churches to participate in liturgy, listen to scripture, join street processions, and come together in prayer and hymn to honor Christ’s sacrifice for our sins. 

Holy week traditions take place annually all around the globe, and many feature performances of Christ’s passion.

But the Bavarian town of Oberammergau Germany has a truly unique tradition, and once every ten years hosts the largest known (and longest-running) passion play in the world. 

READ MORE: 25 Christmas Eve Traditions Around the World

THE PASSION PLAY IN OBERAMMERGAU GERMANY

Taking place just once every decade, the Oberammergau Passion Play is the largest amateur stage production in the world. Only residents of Oberammergau, Germany are allowed to take part, or people who were born and raised there. 

Around 2,000 locals (including 450 children) participate in bringing Christ’s story to life, which is almost half the total population of the town!

The production takes place in an open-air setting over the course of eight hours (from 2:30 PM to 10:30 PM, with a 3-hour break for dinner), and is a massive event that attracts more than 500,000 visitors to Oberammergau. 

This play is performed more than 100 times over the course of five months, from May to October, and recounts the last five days of Jesus’ life.

All members of the cast are fully committed to their characters and dedicated to achieving authenticity. The entire cast stops shaving and cutting their hair months in advance (even local police are excused from clean-shaven regulations).

The passion play has taken place in Oberammergau every decade for the last 400 years, and participants dedicate a full year of their lives to preparing for the production. 

From the main speaking parts to the production team and extras, the cast members are all ordinary people. But you won’t be able to tell they’re amateurs: The production is so realistic, it’s easy to forget you’re watching a play.

Its original script was based on four manuscripts from the 15th and 16th centuries, though it has been adapted and modernized a bit over the decades.

The play you see today combines dramatic dialogue, choral music, and tableaux vivants– static scenes from the Old Testament recreated by motionless actors (the word is French for “living picture”) while being narrated. 

READ MORE: 90 Christmas Traditions Around the World

OBERAMMERGAU PASSION PLAY HISTORY

Oberammergau Passion Play history dates back to 1634, when the town’s first known production was mounted.

From 1618 to 1648 the Thirty Years War ravaged central Europe. There was widespread poverty, sickness, and starvation, and hundreds of thousands of people died as the result of Bubonic Plague. 

Desperate to ease their suffering, the people of Oberammergau made a solemn vow in 1633 that they would stage a play every 10 years to commemorate the passion of Christ if God would save them from the plague.

Legend has it that shortly after this vow was made, the local death rate sharply declined. Those who were already afflicted quickly recovered, and there were no further cases of the plague reported. 

Believing they’d been spared, the townspeople kept their promise: During Pentecost in 1634, they staged the first passion play on the graves of those who had fallen victim to the plague.

Their pledge to continue producing the play once every decade has been kept, with few exceptions (including a cancellation in 1940 due to WWII, and a postponement of the 2020 schedule due to COVID).

But the venue and script has evolved over the years, and a state-of-the-art theatre capable of seating 4,700 people now houses the production. 

The Passion continually evolves to reflect the times. Christian attitudes towards Jewish people during the Nazi era saw anti-semitic themes introduced, with the Jews blamed for the death of Christ. But the script has since been revised.

In 2000, the 41st production of the play saw the greatest revision of the script since 1860, with nearly 2,000 new costumes and 28 new production designs. This also marked a new era of inclusivity in terms of casting.

Up until that point, only Christian citizens of Oberammergau had been permitted to take part. But in 2000 this regulation was revoked to allow Muslim residents to participate.

In 2010 the play was re-scripted once again, and new compositions were created to involve music as a more fundamental part of the performance. 

The show was also extended into the evening, and a new movable stage roof introduced (the stage itself is still open air, but seats are now under a roof cover in case of rain). 

It is likely that the passion of Christ was acted out before the 1600s, even in Oberammergau Germany.

Pastor Joseph A Daisenberger writes in his village chronicles that the community’s pledge “didn’t intend to introduce a new, formerly unfamiliar custom, but to preserve an age-old custom for all eternity by promising to perform it regularly.” 

Preserving the history of the Oberammergau Passion Play is clearly a major point of pride for the community, and roles often run in the family.

Some local families are able to trace their ancestors’ participation back for centuries, and it is not uncommon for up to four generations to take part in a production at any one time!

READ MORE: 50 Ways to Celebrate New Year Traditions Around the World

THINGS TO DO IN OBERAMMERGAU, GERMANY

Oberammergau is a charming Bavarian town nestled in the breathtaking mountain landscapes of the Bavarian Alps. And while the passion play is the biggest feather in the area’s cap, there are plenty of other things to do in Oberammergau Germany. 

For travelers interested in nature, the village sprawls along the Ammer River Valley, which offers scenic hikes and challenging climbing opportunities.

There are around 150 different hiking trails throughout Oberammergau, but one of the most popular is the trail to the summit of Kofel, one of the town’s most prominent landmarks.

The round-trip hike only takes about 90 minutes, but this is a rocky peak that is quite steep and does require good hiking shoes. Alternatively, you can take a chairlift that carries you directly to the picturesque summit. 

Truly adventurous type will enjoy taking the Alpine Coaster at the Kolbensattel. With breathtaking views of the valley and white-knuckle curves, this is one of the world’s largest toboggan runs.

The 1.6-mile steel track snakes around 73 bends at speeds of up to 25 mph, and includes a 1,300 foot drop. The track starts at 1,258 meters, and at its highest point you’ll be 4 meters above the ground. 

Oberammergau also has a long history of traditional arts and crafts, and is celebrated for its traditional woodcarvings, intricate frescoes, and façade paintings.

Bavarian themes (such as fairytales) and biblical scenes are painted on many buildings, a tradition that began about two centuries before street art started becoming a trend elsewhere.  

Taking a walk down local streets and through neighborhoods feels like stepping into a storybook. Referred to as Luftlmalerei in German, the buildings are covered in stories and characters painted in bright lively colors.

Local churches typically have the finest displays of woodcarving worked into their décor. Religious sites worth noting include the Ettal Monastery and the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Wieskirche pilgrimage church, which is located about 30 minutes outside of Oberammergau.

If you find yourself visiting the town when the passion play isn’t running, you can still take a tour of the theatre and explore museum exhibits that tell the story of each performance since 1634.

Costumes and props that have appeared in previous plays are on display, and you can also catch historic films of previous productions. Tours are held in German every day at 2 PM and 4 PM, and there’s a daily tour in English at 11 AM. –by Meg Jerrard

BIO: Megan Jerrard is an Australian journalist and the founder of Mapping Megan, an award-winning travel blog bringing you the latest in adventure travel from all over the globe. 

The post The Oberammergau Passion Play in Bavarian Germany appeared first on Green Global Travel.

10 of the best
things to do in

Puglia

Puglia, the sun-kissed region occupying the heel of Italy's boot-shaped landmass, is a stunning destination where unique traditions, verdant landscapes, mouthwatering cuisine, and fascinating history combine to create an unparalleled travel experience. Steeped in a rich tapestry of culture from Greek, Roman, and Norman influences, Puglia is a treasure trove waiting to be discovered.

In this guide, we will journey through some of the best things to do in Puglia, highlighting everything from its rich historical landmarks to natural wonders, vibrant cities, and captivating coastal beauty. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a nature lover, a foodie, or a beach-goer, Puglia has something for everyone.

Explore Our Villas in Puglia

1. Castel Del Monte

One of the must-visit landmarks in Puglia, standing stoically amidst the region's rolling hills, is the enigmatic Castel Del Monte. A UNESCO World Heritage site, this architectural masterpiece was built in the 13th century by Emperor Frederick II.

Designed with mathematical and astronomical precision, the castle is a marvel of symmetry and numerology. Its unique octagonal shape, punctuated by eight octagonal towers, captures the imagination. Each of the castle's two floors has eight rooms, all interconnecting in a complex labyrinth of stone passages.

Stepping inside Castel Del Monte feels like entering another era. Despite its austere and bare walls, the castle speaks volumes about its past through the remnants of the once grand fireplace, the beautifully crafted single window frames, and the traces of intricate mosaic floors.

The castle's location on a hill near Andria provides a breathtaking 360-degree panorama of the Apulian landscape – a vast expanse of olive groves, vineyards, and farmlands, stretching all the way to the Adriatic Sea. These views, coupled with the castle's awe-inspiring architecture and historical significance, make a visit to Castel Del Monte a truly unforgettable experience.

2. Architecture in Lecce

Lecce, often referred to as the 'Florence of the South', is a city that enchants visitors with its stunning array of architectural wonders. At the heart of Salento, Lecce stands out as the region's baroque masterpiece, an open-air museum gleaming under the southern Italian sun.

The city's signature Lecce stone, a soft, malleable limestone with a warm golden hue, has been the cornerstone of the city's architectural splendour. Sculpted with elaborate detail and precision by the skilled stonemasons of the 17th century, this stone has given rise to an array of intricate façades, ornate statues, and whimsical cherubs that define Lecce's Baroque style.

Take a walk in the evening, and you'll find the city bathed in a soft, golden glow, the Lecce stone buildings beautifully illuminated against the night sky. The city squares come alive with locals enjoying an evening stroll, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee from historic cafes, and the lively chatter from bustling trattorias serving Puglian cuisine.

3. Head Underground at Grotte di Castellana

Embarking on a journey through the Grotte di Castellana offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to step into an awe-inspiring underground world. Located on the outskirts of the charming town of Castellana Grotte, in the heart of Puglia, this vast network of caves is a natural wonder, sculpted over the course of millions of years.

The adventure begins at the grand Grave, the large main cavern, where a dramatic sinkhole opens up to reveal a spectacle of towering stalactites and stalagmites. Guided tours lead through an array of atmospheric caves, each with its unique allure. From the cavernous chambers of the 'Monument Corridor' to the eerie 'Desolation Passage', every turn reveals a new sight that captures the imagination.

One of the main highlights of the tour is the mesmerising White Cave, the last and most spectacular of the caves. Named for its extraordinary white alabaster stalactites and stalagmites, it’s often referred to as the most beautiful cave in the world. The intense whiteness of the formations, illuminated by strategic lighting, creates a scene of otherworldly beauty, giving the sensation of being inside a cathedral of natural crystal.

4. The Trulli of Alberobello

In the heart of Puglia, nestled amidst rolling hills and ancient olive groves, lies the enchanting town of Alberobello. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Alberobello offers a unique journey into Puglia's cultural heritage and architectural ingenuity.

The trulli, which are unique to this region, are whitewashed cylindrical dwellings with conical roofs made of dry stone. Their origins trace back to the 14th century, and today these captivating structures stand as a testament to the creativity and resilience of the Apulian people. Each trullo is unique, with variations in size, layout, and decorative symbols painted on their roofs. These symbols range from Christian signs to mystical and astrological symbols, each telling its own story.

Walking through the streets of Alberobello, you can't help but be charmed by the trulli. They are clustered together, their grey roofs contrasting beautifully against the white walls, with brightly coloured flowers adorning their entrances.

Inside, the trulli are just as fascinating. The thick stone walls and small windows keep the interiors pleasantly cool during the scorching summer months and warm during winter. Some trulli are still used as homes, while others have been transformed into shops, restaurants, and museums, providing insights into traditional Apulian lifestyle.

5. Stroll Around Vieste’s Old Town

Perched on the easternmost point of the Gargano peninsula, the charming coastal town of Vieste presents a picturesque blend of mediaeval architecture, stunning natural beauty, and lively local culture. Its historic old town, with a maze of narrow, winding streets, stands on a rocky promontory overlooking the azure Adriatic Sea, creating a striking landscape that has fascinated visitors for centuries.

Exploring Vieste's old town is like stepping into a postcard. Its whitewashed houses adorned with colourful window boxes, quaint piazzas dotted with local cafes, and the maze-like alleys that lead to panoramic sea views, create a captivating atmosphere that exudes authentic Italian charm.

Dominating the old town's skyline is the impressive Vieste Cathedral. Built in the 11th century, this Romanesque-style cathedral is a testament to Vieste's rich history. Its robust structure stands atop the highest point in the old town, offering an incredible panorama of the surrounding cityscape and the azure sea beyond.

As you wander through the labyrinth of streets, you'll come across small artisanal shops selling locally crafted products, from ceramics to olive oil. You'll also find a plethora of cosy trattorias and seafood restaurants where you can savour the region's gastronomic delights, including its famed orecchiette pasta and fresh seafood dishes.

Explore Our Villas in Puglia

6. Explore the Isole Tremiti

Floating like emerald jewels in the sparkling Adriatic Sea, the Isole Tremiti (Tremiti Islands) beckon adventurers to discover their hidden wonders. Comprising five small islands—San Domino, San Nicola, Capraia, Cretaccio, and Pianosa—these destinations offer a captivating blend of natural beauty, rich history, and a tranquil atmosphere that is simply irresistible.

Setting foot on the Isole Tremiti feels like stepping into a pristine paradise. The crystal-clear turquoise waters, fringed by rugged cliffs and picturesque coves, create a mesmerising backdrop for exploration. From secluded sandy beaches to dramatic limestone formations, the islands boast a diverse coastal landscape that invites leisurely walks along the shore, refreshing swims, and moments of serenity while basking in the Mediterranean sun.

San Domino, the largest and most popular island, is a true gem of the archipelago. Its lush vegetation, including pine and Aleppo trees, provides a verdant setting for picturesque walks and scenic picnics. The island's hidden coves, such as Cala delle Arene and Cala delle Viole, offer tranquil spots for swimming and snorkelling, where vibrant marine life thrives beneath the water's surface.

7. Explore Puglia’s Stunning Beaches

Puglia, with its idyllic location along the sun-kissed Adriatic and Ionian coasts, boasts some of Italy's most breathtaking beaches. From pristine stretches of golden sand to rugged cliffs that plunge into turquoise waters, Puglia's coastline offers a diverse range of seaside experiences that will leave beach lovers in awe.

One of the region's most famous beach destinations is Pescoluse, affectionately known as the Maldives of Salento. With its powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters, Pescoluse is a true paradise for sun-seekers and water enthusiasts. As you lounge under the warm Mediterranean sun, the gentle lapping of waves and the refreshing sea breeze create an atmosphere of pure relaxation.

Travelling up the coast, you'll encounter the enchanting coastal town of Polignano a Mare. This picturesque destination boasts dramatic cliffs that plunge into the deep blue sea, creating a dramatic backdrop for its beautiful beaches. Explore hidden coves such as Cala Porto and Cala Paura, where you can swim in secluded turquoise waters surrounded by towering limestone walls.

‍Puglia's beaches offer more than just natural beauty; they are also a hub of cultural experiences. Along the coast, you'll find vibrant beach clubs where you can sip on refreshing cocktails and enjoy live music while soaking up the sun. Local beachside restaurants serve up the freshest seafood dishes, tantalising your taste buds with flavours of the Mediterranean.

8. Gargano National Park

Gargano National Park is a natural paradise that beckons outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Extending over 120,000 hectares, this diverse and captivating park showcases a mesmerising blend of dense forests, towering limestone cliffs, picturesque beaches, and hidden coves, all teeming with a rich array of flora and fauna.

The park's crown jewel is the Foresta Umbra, a sprawling ancient beech forest that has stood the test of time, offering hikers and nature enthusiasts the chance to explore its peaceful groves, breathe in the fresh scent of pine and moss, and encounter wildlife such as deer, wild boar, and numerous bird species. Gargano's coastline is equally captivating, boasting some of Italy's most stunning beaches and coastal landscapes.  The marine ecosystem of Gargano is also a paradise for snorkelers and divers, revealing a vibrant underwater world of colourful coral reefs, sea sponges, and a myriad of fish species. Snorkel along the coast, exploring hidden coves and discovering the secrets of underwater caves, or embark on a diving expedition to explore the depths of the Adriatic Sea.

9. Explore the Capital City – Bari

As the bustling capital city of Puglia, Bari is a vibrant metropolis that seamlessly blends rich historical heritage with modern urban life. Situated on the Adriatic Sea, this captivating coastal city offers a wealth of cultural, culinary, and architectural delights, making it a must-visit destination for travellers.

At the heart of Bari Vecchia lies the impressive Basilica di San Nicola, an architectural masterpiece that houses the relics of Saint Nicholas. This grand Romanesque church, with its soaring domes and intricate stone carvings, is a site of pilgrimage and a symbol of devotion for both locals and visitors alike. Inside, the atmosphere is tranquil, with flickering candles casting a warm glow over centuries of religious art and ancient frescoes.
‍
Leaving Bari Vecchia behind, the modern side of the city unfolds. Stroll along the elegant shopping streets, lined with designer boutiques, trendy cafes, and gelaterias serving up irresistible flavours. Discover the striking modern architecture, such as the iconic Teatro Petruzzelli, the largest theatre in southern Italy, and the contemporary art exhibitions at the Fondo Verri.

10. Sample Local Cuisine

From coastal delicacies to hearty inland dishes, Puglia's food and drink culture promises a delightful adventure for foodies.

One of the region's most iconic dishes is Orecchiette con Cime di Rapa. This delectable pasta dish features small, ear-shaped orecchiette pasta served with sautéed broccoli rabe, garlic, chili pepper, and a sprinkle of pecorino cheese. The combination of tender greens and perfectly al dente pasta creates a harmony of flavors that exemplifies the simple yet profound nature of Puglian cuisine.

Another must-try is Burrata, a creamy cheese delight that originated in Puglia. Made from mozzarella and cream, Burrata's luscious centre spills out when cut, creating a luxurious texture that pairs perfectly with fresh tomatoes and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.

To accompany your meals, be sure to sample the local Primitivo wine. Grown in the fertile soils of Puglia's vineyards, this red wine variety has gained international acclaim for its rich, velvety taste. Sip on Primitivo as you relish the flavors of Puglian cuisine, and you'll truly experience the essence of this sun-drenched region.

For more in-depth insights into Puglia's food and drink scene, check out our comprehensive guide to food and drink in Puglia.

Browse Our Collection Of Villas In Puglia

Whether you're an architecture enthusiast, a nature lover, a foodie, or simply seeking a tranquil escape by the sea, Puglia has something to offer everyone. Wander through ancient towns, bask in the sun on golden beaches, indulge in authentic local dishes, and immerse yourself in the warm embrace of Puglian culture.

To make the most of your Puglian adventure, we offer a selection of beautiful villas in Puglia that perfectly complement the region's allure. Each villa is handpicked to ensure comfort and a genuine experience of Puglian living. 

Browse our collection of villas in Puglia and start planning your dream holiday in this hidden gem of Italy.

Explore Our Villas in Puglia

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The funding round was led by Vanneck Ltd., with participation from other angel investors. The company says the new funding will be used to launch a series of functionality and design enhancements, as well as to support its expansion into other regional markets.

InterLnkd’s intelligent matching engine enables travel sellers to earn a new and free revenue stream by tapping into their customers’ shopping habits across fashion, beauty, and essentials.

Barry Klipp, Chief Executive Officer of InterLnkd, said: “This new round of investment marks a pivotal moment for InterLnkd. It not only validates our mission to help the travel industry capitalise on a new and free stream of ancillary revenue, but also empowers us to deliver an even more tailored experience to our partners and their customers. We look forward enhancing our capabilities, expanding our global footprint, and reshaping the world of travel shopping.”

Heneage Stevenson, Director of Vanneck Ltd., added: “InterLnkd has built a truly unique and disruptive solution for the travel industry, where relevance and personalisation are paramount. At Vanneck Ltd., we see enormous potential in the start-up’s innovative approach to unlocking a new source of ancillary revenue for travel sellers and are excited to support their growth into new markets.”

Thanks to its intelligent matching engine, InterLnkd seamlessly curates a personalised selection of products that align with a customer’s travel booking from over 20,000 brands across fashion, beauty, and essentials.

The UK-based company’s white-label technology enables travel sellers – including airlines, tour operators, and Online Travel Agencies – to earn a cost-free incremental revenue stream from the items their travellers want and need for their holidays.

The announcement follows a string of recent partnerships with travel brands including Thomas Cook, HolidayPirates, and LeShuttle (Eurotunnel).

Having won this year’s Startup Competition at World Aviation Festival, InterLnkd has been shortlisted in two coveted categories at the prestigious Travolution Awards 2023: Startup of The Year and Disruptor of The Year.