Sundowner: Autumn/Winter 2019

FLYING HIGH
THE NEW FLIGHT ROUTES & OTHER AIRLINE
NEWS THAT WE’RE EXCITED ABOUT
Rocking up to Uluru
qantas has launched direct flights to Uluru from Darwin and
Adelaide. The twice-weekly services will save rock-bound tourists
hours in travel time. Qantas Domestic chief executive Andrew
David said: “We’re seeing more demand for travel to Uluru
from international and interstate tourists than we have seen in a
long time. The direct flights offer a new, convenient option from
Adelaide and Darwin, saving travellers up to five hours’ time
instead of travelling on flights via other cities.” All the more time to
enjoy Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park.
Top of the class
british airways has announced a five-year, £6.5 billion
investment that includes a series of refinements to its First Class
service. The new look and feel includes upgraded bedding,
added amenities, and à la carte menus that focus on seasonal,
British ingredients. “In this, our centenary year, we’ve sought
out some of the best British designers and manufacturers to
work with to ensure travelling in First with British Airways is
an unforgettable experience,” said Carolina Martinoli, British
Airways director of brand and customer experience. Passengers
will now be treated to pyjama sets by Temperley London, as well
as a Temperley amenity bag filled with Elemis products.
Doing the double
On 1 July, emirates launched a second daily flight from Dubai
International to London Stansted. The additional flight means that
Emirates customers now have 11 daily flight options from three
London airports to the UAE’s capital.
More is more
qatar airways has boosted its South Africa services. Weekly
flights to Johannesburg have increased to 19, with an additional
two being added this autumn. Travellers wanting to fly to Cape
Town will have an extra three per week to choose from by 27
October. Qatar Airways Group chief executive, Akbar Al Baker,
said: “The latest additional services to both Johannesburg and
Cape Town reflect the growing demand for travel to and from
these popular South African destinations.”
Pushing the boat out
With the whole of Egypt enjoying a surge of interest right now,
A&K’s sister brand, Sanctuary Retreats, has timed the relaunch
of the Sanctuary Nile Adventurer to a tee. Setting sail on its first
Nile voyages in September 2019, the made-over ship’s 32 cabins
have all been reimagined in calm colours – azure, sandstone,
and burnished gold and bronze. The lounge, bar, restaurant,
and library are also being refreshed. New onboard is an openair
gym, and a spa space that features a floating four-poster
treatment bed. A ship fit for a pharaoh.
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