The Most and least flexible U.S. airlines
How US Airlines Respond to Flight Disruptions
Air travel has been quite chaotic thus far this summer as airlines struggle with pandemic-induced staffing shortages that have so far prevented them from meeting surging demand. The result has been routine flight delays and cancellations that make knowing your airline’s change and cancellation policies more important than ever. The team of experts at the online flight deal search system Next Vacay recently dove into some of these policies of each major U.S. airline to determine which ones offer travelers the most and least flexibility at the moment. The research took into account things like change fees, refund options, flight cancellation and travel insurance options. Here’s a look at some of the key policies travelers will want to be familiar with moving forward.
Alaska Airlines
Alaska Airlines doesn’t charge change fees on Main and First Class fares and customers can cancel their flight within 24 hours of purchase to receive a full refund. Keep in mind that no changes are allowed on Alaska’s Saver fares.
Allegiant Air
Like Alaska and others, Allegiant only refunds tickets within 24 hours of purchase. The airline’s change fees are $25 per person, per flight segment. Customers who cancel their flight will be charged a fee of $75 per passenger, per segment and receive a credit after the fee is incurred.
American Airlines
American Airlines doesn’t charge customers change fees on Premium Cabin, Premium Economy or Main Cabin fares. Travelers will need to book a refundable ticket if they want that option and Basic Economy fares are non-refundable and non-changeable.
Delta Air Lines
Delta Air Lines customers don’t have to worry about change fees when they purchase Main Cabin or above for flights originating from North America. Meanwhile, travelers with Basic Economy tickets will receive an e-credit if they need to cancel their flight. Customers with travel insurance flying Delta can protect their prepaid, non-refundable travel expenses if their trip is canceled or interrupted due to a covered reason.
Frontier Airlines
Frontier Airlines doesn’t charge a change fee if it occurs 60 or more days prior to departure. Between seven and 59 days out, the fee is $49 while making a change six days or less to departure costs $79. What’s more, customers may cancel tickets up to 24 hours after the time of purchase for a full refund.
Hawaiian Airlines
There are no change fees for guests who purchase Hawaiian Airlines tickets or redeem HawaiianMiles for Main Cabin or higher fares on any route within the carrier’s network. The airline points out that Main Cabin Basic tickets are not included in the refreshed policy.
JetBlue
There are no change or cancellation fees on most of JetBlue’s fares with the exception of Blue Basic, which is subject to a change fee of $100 for travel within the U.S., Caribbean, Mexico or Central America and $200 for all other routes.
Southwest Airlines
Low-cost carrier Southwest Airlines doesn’t charge any change fees and the airline’s Anytime and Business Select fares are refundable. Customers who cancel a non-refundable ticket will receive a travel fund that they can use toward a future flight.
Spirit Airlines
Spirit Airlines’ ultra-low fares come at the cost of flexibility. The airline does not offer refundable fares and change fees range from free to $99. Customers can also purchase Travel Guard plans to protect their trip and access assistance in the event of a disruption.
United Airlines
United Airlines doesn’t charge any change fees for most economy and premium cabin tickets and offers a 24-hour flexible booking policy. Basic Economy tickets are not eligible for changes but are eligible for a full refund within 24 hours of booking as long as customers completed their purchase one week or more before the original scheduled departure flight.
Which European airlines are cancelling the most flights this summer?
We’re more than half way through the year, the weather’s good and everyone’s craving a getaway. But after a slew of cancellations from major airlines, holidaymakers are anxiously counting down the days until take off, hoping their flight isn’t one of the ones affected.
The aviation industry has struggled to keep up with the sheer volume of travellers now that COVID restrictions are on their way out – largely due to staff cutbacks during the pandemic.
Airlines have been cancelling thousands of flights with some only notifying passengers on the day, and others making huge cuts to their upcoming schedules.
But, according to new analysis from travel data firm Mabrian, the airline cutting the highest proportion of its journeys is actually Turkish Airlines.
“We’ve never seen anything like this and it is a reflection of the labour difficulties that airlines and airports are having right now, making them unable to return to 2019 capacity levels,” sales and marketing director Carlos Cendra told Travel Weekly regarding the travel chaos.
EasyJet has also cancelled a significant number of flights.
But, explains Cendra, “whilst easyJet’s overall number of flights cancelled is 1,394, as a percentage of their air capacity it is fair to point out that this is just 5.5 per cent – or one in 20 flights.”
Using figures from flight data aggregator Cirium, Mabrian analysts looked at how many flights were scheduled to take off between 1 and 15 July as of 14 June, compared to the same period two weeks later on 28 June.
“Perhaps surprisingly,” he says, it was Turkish Airlines that had the highest ratio of cancellations at nearly 7 per cent.
Budget airline Wizz Air (UK) came in third, slashing 3.4 per cent of its services during this time.
Though it will be cold comfort to anyone whose travel plans are in disarray, “we must keep some perspective on this overall situation” Cendra added.
When Mabrian looked at the overall numbers in terms of each airline’s overall capacity, the percentage of cancellations was relatively low.
Which country has the highest number of cancelled flights?
Holidaymakers from Germany are most likely to be impacted by the airport chaos, Mabrian’s data shows.
Between June 14 and 5 July, 1,482 flights scheduled for the first half of July were scrapped. This is a total of 6 per cent of all outbound flights from the country.
It also represents a chunky 27 per cent of total cancellations of flights with their origin or destination in Europe.
The UK ranks second, with 1,060 flights cancelled over this period, equating to 3.2 per cent of outbound flights.
In total, 5,464 flights within Europe have recently been cancelled from 1 to 15 July. Italy, Spain and France had the next highest shares of that total. Denmark can take some pride in only losing around 100 of its scheduled services.
As with the airlines analysis, the data does not include flights cancelled at the last minute and is instead based on scheduling.
Turkish Airlines was contacted for comment.
Euronews Travel has asked Mabrian for clarification on how the latest round of BA cancellations affect the chart, and will be updating this article.
US DOT outlines ‘Bill of Rights’ for airline passengers with disabilities
The United States Department of Transportation (DOT) has outlined the rights of disabled passengers in a new bill aimed at giving all travelers a better experience in the air.
The DOT announced the Airline Passengers with Disabilities Bill of Rights on July 8, 2022. The bill summarizes the existing law with the aim of helping disabled passengers to “understand and assert” their rights. However, the document does not expand or restrict the rights of passengers with disabilities, the authority notes.
The Bill of Rights applies to all flights of US airlines, to flights to or from the United States by foreign airlines, and to their contractors.
It lists 10 main areas of rights for passengers with disabilities:
The Right to Be Treated with Dignity and Respect.
The Right to Receive Information About Services and Aircraft Capabilities and Limitations.
The Right to Receive Information in an Accessible Format.
The Right to Accessible Airport Facilities.
The Right to Assistance at Airports.
The Right to Assistance on the Aircraft.
The Right to Travel with an Assistive Device or Service Animal.
The Right to Receive Seating Accommodations.
The Right to Accessible Aircraft Features.
The Right to Resolution of a Disability-Related Issue.
Europe’s best long-haul business class
Are you flying into, out of or across Europe soon? Then if you’re looking for the best business class flights in the continent, this list is for you.
You might not immediately think of a European airline when searching for business class long-haul flights. However, it’s 2022 and many airlines in Europe have refurbished and upped their business class game.
From lie-flat seats to in-flight meals and airline lounges, we searched for and found the best of Europe’s business class flights.
Lufthansa A350: Repurposed comfort
We’re starting the list with one of the newest business class products in Europe, Lufthansa’s (LHAB) (LHA) business class seats on the A350-900.
The business class seats were launched in April 2022, so they are a fairly new product. But that’s not the only reason why Lufthansa’s (LHAB) (LHA) A350 business class seats are first on our list. We like that the aircraft is repurposed. Lufthansa’s (LHAB) (LHA) new A350 aircraft are actually former Philippine Airlines jets.
While some business class snobs might scoff whenever Lufthansa (LHAB) (LHA) refers to the business class product as ‘new’, we actually like the idea of repurposing and creating a much better product compared to both Philippine Airlines’ and Lufthansa’s (LHAB) (LHA) own business class offering in its older fleet.
The best upgrade that Lufthansa (LHAB) (LHA) made to this newly-acquired fleet of A350 aircraft was to change the configuration of its business class seats. Current configuration on older aircraft is a 2-2-2 seating, which means not everyone has access to the aisle, which is a hassle for both the window seat passenger and the aisle passenger beside them and a common frustration found in older business class cabins.
Lufthansa (LHAB) (LHA) plans to use the “new” A350 fleet to strengthen its long-haul operations from Munich, so the new business class cabin has been reconfigured to a 1-2-1 arrangement, which means everybody has access to the aisle. The seat arrangement is also slightly staggered, which gives every passenger that extra sense of privacy.
British Airways Club World Seats: yin and yang
Not many people know that British Airways first pioneered the idea of lie-flat seats in first class in 1995, and the so-called reclining “cradle seats” were introduced for business class in 1996.
In 1999, British Airways brought in business class seats that lie flat in a yin-yang layout. It had rear-facing seats next to forward-facing seats, which meant that some passengers faced each other during the flight.
Passengers either love or hate the seating style, but we like the sheer uniqueness of it. It makes conversing easy for couples or colleagues who are traveling together.
There’s also the novelty of feeling like you’re flying backwards for those in the rear-facing seats.
There’s no other airline that has this style of seating arrangement, and we admire British Airways for maintaining this configuration for more than 20 years.
In 2019, however, British Airways decided to upgrade and started rolling out the new Club Suite to replace the Club World seats in business class. It’s more modern with additional bells and whistles, but all seats now face forward, just like any other airline.
Those who still wish to experience the yin-yang business class seats will only have a number of months left to do so because British Airways plans to upgrade all of its fleet’s business class to Club Suite by the end of 2022.
KLM business class: a token to remember
Let’s face it, not all business class flights are a memorable experience. Many airline seats and amenities can start to look and feel the same.
But KLM’s business class passengers are guaranteed to leave the flight with a lasting impression. The airline gives out custom-made Delft Blue Houses (reproductions of traditional houses in Amsterdam) to every business class passenger. And get this, each blue house is filled with Dutch gin.
The best thing about these unique souvenirs is that every October, KLM releases a new house to commemorate its anniversary. One of the most notable houses the airline created was house number 47, a miniature of the Anne Frank House at Prinsengracht 263 in Amsterdam.
In 2021, KLM created a miniature of Amsterdam’s iconic Tuschinski Cinema to mark the airline’s 102nd birthday. We can’t wait to see what house KLM has picked for 2022!
Austrian Airlines business class: for the globetrotting foodie
Austrian Airlines has its business class catering prepared by the Austrian company Do & Co, who also cater other airlines such as Turkish Airlines and Delta.
In 2018, Austrian Airlines won Skytrax’s award for “Best Business Class On-board Catering” and it’s easy to see why.
Firstly, seasonal Austrian ingredients and dishes are used when creating the airline’s business class menu. It is common to see apricots, Martini Gansl (St. Martin’s goose) or Wiener Zwiebelrostbraten (Viennese onion roast beef) on the menu.
Secondly, is the meticulous process that the airline goes through to consider a meal “airworthy”. The airline does its meal testing on actual flights so that they know how a dish will taste in the air.
Austrian Airlines also has chefs on board to prepare business class meals such as eggs and steaks in real time above the clouds.
And if you love coffee, you’re in for a treat because you can choose between 10 typical Austrian coffee specialities such as Einspänner, Viennese iced coffee or Melange from a separate coffee menu for the airline’s long-haul flights.
Air France business class Boeing 777-300: a product to look forward to
In September 2022, Air France will unveil its latest business class product on its B777-300 fleet. The airline said that when it was designing the new cabin, it had three ‘Fs’ in mind:
Full Flat- each unit transforms into a flat bed almost two meters long
Full Access – with a 1-2-1 configuration, all passengers have direct access to the aisle
Full Privacy – optimum privacy guaranteed with sliding doors and partitions
For the middle seats, there is also a center panel that can rise up and down, allowing flexibility for those traveling together or solo. While these amenities may seem staple to business class products in Middle Eastern airlines, who are known for their superior business class products, it’s certainly a new and welcome upgrade to Air France, who last spruced up its business cabin in 2016.
The new entertainment system will also feature an anti-glare HDTV, noise-canceling headphones, power outlets and plenty of storage space.
The first of Air France’s B777-300 to take-off with the new business class seats will fly the Paris – New York route.
SWISS business class: a minimalist and plane spotter’s dream
Flying business class is not just about the flight itself. Most times, an airline’s first and business class lounge is an experience on its own.
SWISS, or Swiss International Air Lines, has nine airline lounges at Zurich Airport (ZRH) and its interiors are the epitome of house and office goals!
There’s a fine line between minimalist and spartan and SWISS has a very cozy but minimalist style that’s conducive to working and feeling relaxed just before a flight.
If you have a business or first class flight booked with SWISS departing from Zurich, we urge you to arrive with a few hours to spare so you can enjoy the lounge. Do some work, catch up on reading, or simply relax and enjoy the food.
And if you are an avid plane spotter or simply an aviation enthusiast, don’t forget to check out the terrace that looks out directly to the runway. There are pairs of Leica binoculars in varying sections of the terrace for use by passengers.
Virgin Atlantic’s The Loft: for the social butterfly
Known to keep things sassy but classy, Virgin Atlantic’s Upper Class (business class) on selected A350 aircraft can help you foster connections while flying in style.
The Loft is a social space for passengers to hang out, stretch their feet, have a drink or a chat – whether it’s with a traveling companion, or even a fellow passenger they’ve just met.
We like the social aspect that this brings to a business class flight, and if one is traveling for work with colleagues, The Loft can also be a great venue for meetings.
SO there you have it, AeroTime’s list of Europe’s best business class seats and products. Have you flown on any of these airlines? We’d love to hear about your experience!
How to make the most of your Amsterdam trip
With its gorgeous streets strung together by trams, buses and bike lanes, Amsterdam is both a travel and transport-lover’s dream.
Appreciation for the Netherlands’ capital is on the up. It now ranks as the world’s ninth most liveable city according to the Economist’s annual rankings. ‘Liveable’ is on the tip of tourists’ tongues too, but it’s damning with faint praise – the greater impression is of a truly calm place to exist in.
Known as ‘the Venice of the North’, Amsterdam has more than 160 canals and 1,200 bridges criss-crossing them. This loose grid system can make it tricky for visitors to get their bearings, as there are countless elegant houses, bars and coffee shops budding off each street.
Summer is a brilliant time to visit as it brings the city’s parks and bodies of water to life. Having spent an unusually hot few days across the North Sea this year, here are my best tips for where to sleep, eat, drink and stay cool.
Where are the best places to stay in Amsterdam?
As with any European capital, holidaymakers are not short on places to rest their heads in Amsterdam. Given the competition, hotels are doing more and more to distinguish themselves.
These three places all have a strong concept, stay true to their visions of hospitality and offer a little something extra to your stay.
Volkshotel
Located just a few minutes metro ride from Centraal Station – and a stroll away from the lovely Oosterpark – Volkshotel is a supremely fun place to base yourself. It might not look like much from the outside (though a portico with a monkey drinking beer atop a seagull gives a flavour of its kookiness). The exterior couldn’t be further from the Grand Budapest Hotel, but the busy inner workings of this former newspaper HQ certainly had a Wes Anderson feel.
As well as several hotel floors, a cutaway picture would show people bathing in the rooftop hot tubs, dining in the stylish Canvas restaurant, typing away in the workspace studios, and dancing in the basement. I enjoyed all minus the work for this Dutch dispatch, and it really felt like more of an all-in-one-experience than just a hotel.
With incredible panoramic views, delicious food and cocktails, Canvas is a destination for locals too. And no doubt the open plan workspace is a buzzing spot for creatives and digital nomads. Guests can access all areas and activities, though are themselves tucked away with a secure card system.
There are rooms for different budgets and tastes, starting from €79 (off season) for a cabin, to €200 plus for one of the special rooms. ‘Cabin in the woods’ is one of the latter; a spacious haven that will delight DIY-lovers with its mix of solid square joinery and birchwood, plus an ‘open-air’ bath.
The staff are very friendly and – given all the activities on offer, from yoga to life drawing sessions and hairdressing – I’d particularly recommend Volkshotel for those looking for a longer stay, and to have a more sociable time in the city.
Conscious Hotel, Westerpark
It’s not every day you stay in a hotel in the middle of a park. Conscious Hotel’s amazing location in Westerpark feels both peaceful and entirely fitting with its environmental ethos.
It is the first hotel in the Netherlands to be powered solely by wind energy, largely from its own windmill in the harbour of Amsterdam – delivered by green supplier Pure Energie. The grand red brick building, once the site of a former gas works, is 100 per cent electric.
The rooms are simple in style, bright and clean, but with a twist. Things have got substance: from the Fairtrade cotton sheets to desks made from recycled yoghurt pots, each element has a solid, well-sourced feel.
There are four Conscious Hotels in total, two beside wonderful Vondelpark and another next to Museum Square. And in each one this simplicity is married to a characterful spirit. ‘Eco sexy’ is the brand’s slogan, and it’s used liberally. You’ll struggle to avoid this kind of wackaging in Amsterdam’s boutique accommodation, but in this case it’s at least well earned.
Bar Kantoor is an elegant dining space, with a bar made from old pharmacy cabinets at one end, and an open kitchen at the other. There are a great array of breakfast options, all with the perk of being able to look out across the park while you get your caffeine fix.
The trams don’t line up quite so easily from Westerpark to get to the inner ring of shops and eateries, but they’re only a short walk away. And those looking to explore Amsterdam the local way will be glad to hear the hotel has bikes to rent. Make a beeline for Sloterplas – just a 20 minute cycle west – on a hot day, to bask at the lake with its own urban beachfront.
A little further out, the expansive Niewe Meer offers another great place for outdoor swimming, while the former shipyard of Marineterrein is good for a quick dip.
Hotel the Exchange
Blink walking down Damrak and you’ll miss it, but an unobtrusive entrance gives way to this expansive hotel in the heart of Amsterdam.
Each room is designed by fashion students, with all interior design in strong service to a theme – even one as niche as a ‘Rembrandt-style collar’. Rooms range from spacious 5-star suites to 1-star economy rooms: ‘snug hideaways’ with fun details like giant buttons or collections of embroidery hoops.
I stayed in ‘The Lagos Room’, a tribute to designer Papa Oyeyemi’s home city, and a vision in yellow gingham and black tyre. It has a secret, twilight feel, offset by wide balcony views, high concept but also extremely comfortable. Even a less tailored room, you get the impression, is woven with the same care and attention to detail.
Being right in the thick of things comes with obvious advantages too, as you’re in easy reach of Amsterdam’s many attractions.
The hotel is only a three minute walk from the magnificent medieval Oude Kerk and Our Lord in the Attic, a former hidden Catholic church. Other underrated spots include the Mouse Mansion – a delightful model city run by rodents – and the Huis Marseille Museum of Photography with its small but peaceful garden.
They’re either end of the nine streets, which house an enticing warren of independent shops.
Where are the best places to eat and drink in Amsterdam?
It would take you well beyond a weekend to find Amsterdam’s finest eateries, but there are definitely a cluster of stylish spots on the west side.
Café Binnenvisser’s charm spills out onto the curb. Beneath beautiful stained glass panels, the windows open out in summer to merge the cool interior and warm evenings. If you’ve got the time (and are happy to splash out one evening) enjoy the 5-course menu and watch the world go by.
Further north, the Italian restaurant Rafi also has a neighbourhood feel that belies its central location, and serves up delicious classic food with a modern flair.
Veggies and vegans can’t miss Vegan Junk Food Bar – a business that realised the gap in the market for greasy, chunky plant-based food several years ago, and went full steam ahead with bright coloured burgers. I ate at the restaurant on Reguliersdwarsstraat, Amsterdam’s iconic and fun gay street.
Foodhallen is another Amsterdam dining experience to write home about, or at least get on the Instagram grid. Beautiful stalls with every kind of cuisine, plus bars and DJs all under one roof.
For quicker pit stops try Vleesch Noch Visch for pitta wraps and Fou Fow Ramen for perfect gyoza and a refreshing Asahi beer. There are so many drinking spots to choose from in Amsterdam, but one place to feel a comfy, locals vibe is Café P96 – pull up a chair on the boat terrace and feel the gentle sway of the canal beneath you.
The world’s 10 best spas are in Paris, Barcelona and Brussels
Rest and relaxation is an essential part of any holiday. Whether you’re horizontal on a beach, skydiving, skiing or on safari, you’re sure to build in some quieter moments of self-care too.
With hotels jumping on the wellness trend, holidaymakers don’t have to look far for an in-house massage or detoxing drink. But more and more people are in pursuit of the ultimate relaxation experience: a spa break.
And European cities are increasingly equipped to meet our desires.
We might associate it with the hustle and bustle of sightseeing, fashion and gastronomy, but Paris actually has the most spas for its size: a whopping 965 in total, or around nine per square kilometre.
That’s according to a new study by travel experts at money.co.uk, an online comparison service, which has broken down the number of spas in every major city in the UK, EU, US and Canada.
Paris also has the most expensive, top-rated establishment of the lot. A day pass at Molitor Spa by Clarins will set you back €290 – but is more than worth it according to TripAdvisor testimonials.
“I have a very intense job, and getting a massage at this place always brings me back to life,” wrote one reviewer. It’s a sentiment sure to be shared by many, so here is a guide to the best spas in Europe.
Europe is home to 9 of the top 10 spa break destinations
Second on the list is the ever-popular Barcelona, with 605 spas: almost six per square kilometre on average. It also has one of the lowest starting prices for a top-rated spa, at just €31.
The sunny climate, delicious food and vibrant culture make it an attractive destination for those seeking the full city break package. So it’s good to know it has some of the most affordable popular spas to relax in after a busy weekend of exploring.
Brussels rarely shares a top three spot with Paris and Barcelona, but when it comes to spa density, the Belgian capital punches above its weight with 73 in its 33 kilometres.
The top-rated spa offers a uniquely fitting experience: a Belgian beer bath. Chilling out in a tub of yeast, malt and hops has been known as a skincare in some countries for centuries, but Belgium was surprisingly slow to catch on.
The founders of Bath and Barley are changing that, welcoming guests at a rate of €99 per person per tub in their old Brussels cellar where you can unwind on a straw bed post-bath.
Athens came in fourth place. But it’s France that really dominates the top 10, with Bordeaux and Lyon also proving to be havens for spa lovers. Switzerland puts in a good show too, with Zurich and Basel at 6th and 9th place respectively.
Where are the best cities for spas in the UK and US?
A UK city comes in 10th place and no – it’s not Bath. The Roman city of Chichester in West Sussex may only have 13 spas, but that’s a strong ratio for its 11km². With the chalk hills of South Downs on its doorstep, and the charming seaside resort of Bognor Regis, there are plenty of other ways to relax off the massage table too.
Norwich was the other UK city to make the top 20, with 32 serene spas. It’s a characterful place to spend a weekend, with a famously high density of pubs and churches and the epic Norfolk coastline to explore.
There are only five destinations on the top 20 list that are outside of Europe, according to the TripAdvisor compiled data. They are: Vancouver in Canada in fifth, Hawaii’s Honolulu in 13th, New York City in 15th with one spa for every km², followed by Miami, and San Francisco is 18th.
Lille, Nice, Porto, Lisbon and Dubrovnik make up the remaining European contenders.
Nearly half of travel insurance policies don’t cover strikes
Travellers are braced for chaos this summer as airport and airline staff strike for better pay and working conditions.
As industrial action hits one of the busiest travel periods of the year, many of us are worried that our holiday could be impacted. Searches for the phrase “flight cancelled” have skyrocketed, increasing 100 per cent in June compared to May, according to data from Google trends.
One of the main associated search trends is strike action.
Consumer experts are recommending that travellers check their insurance carefully to avoid getting caught out.
Will my travel insurance cover strike action?
Four in 10 policies assessed by Which? offered no protection for travellers forced to cancel due to strike action.
Of the 199 policies they looked at in total, 120 offered protection for cancellations caused by industrial action, one offered it as an optional extra and 78 offered no coverage at all for staff walkouts.
“With many airlines warning of widespread disruption this summer and COVID cases on the rise, travellers should ensure they’ve taken out adequate insurance to cover any losses or unexpected costs they might face,” says Which? money editor Jenny Ross.
“We advise travellers to always check policies carefully to ensure they offer the cover that will be most appropriate to their trip, and to ensure they have cover in place from the time of booking.”
What can you do if your insurance doesn’t cover strikes?
According to Which? anyone who has had their holiday cancelled by a package tour operator is entitled to a refund by law. Airlines also have to refund passengers when they cancel a flight – including those caused by staff going on strike.
The consumer group also says that, wherever possible, travellers should purchase their holiday using a credit card. This is because most credit card providers are legally required to reimburse you for purchases over £100 (€116) if services are not provided as advertised and the company won’t refund you.
What if my holiday provider goes out of business?
With the impact of strikes pushing some travel companies to the brink of bankruptcy, the worry that your provider could go out of business is very real.
Which? says that if you are in the UK and booked with an ATOL (Air Travel Organiser’s Licence) protected firm then you will be reimbursed if they go bust. You’ll also be repatriated if the worst were to happen and they go out of business while you are abroad.
Top destinations to visit in Portugal instead of the Algarve this summer
Portugal has dropped all of its travel restrictions from July 1.
Travellers from all countries, both EU and non-EU, are no longer required to carry out a COVID-19 test or present proof of vaccination when entering the country. It means that all visitors – even those that are not vaccinated – can now enter.
There are a few COVID-related rules in place, however. Face masks are still mandatory on public transport and when travelling by taxi or other means of transportation. You’ll also still need them if you have to visit a health facility while in Portugal.
The country joins 24 other EU countries that have so far dropped all of their COVID-19 entry rules.
With unrestricted travel to Portugal making a return, popular destinations like the Algarve are likely to be busy. So where should you go to escape the crowds this summer? Here are a few of our recommendations.
9. Azores – an island eco paradise
The Azores are a collection of nine Portuguese islands located in the mid-Atlantic Ocean.
Split into three groups, the islands are home to a wealth of biodiversity and numerous volcanic cones and craters. They have been hailed an ‘eco-tourism’ paradise and are home to numerous historical buildings, including 15th century churches and manor houses.
The easiest island to fly to is Sao Miguel, but the best island to escape the busy tourist hotspots is Corvo. It has its own domestic airport which offers flights between three of the other islands. Alternatively, you can travel to Corvo via ferry from Sao Miguel.
Corvo is the smallest island and the entire island is in fact an extinct volcano and was formed from its previous eruptions.
8. Sintra – the home of Portugal’s stunning history
Less than an hour away from Portugal’s capital Lisbon is the small Portuguese town of Sintra.
Located in the hills of Serra de Sintra, this town is known for its villas and castle ruins. Many visit as a day trip from Lisbon, but we recommend staying for a few days as there’s plenty to see and do.
Known for its slightly cooler climate, Sintra is great for escaping the heat of the capital city. This is what Portuguese nobility, artists and the elite did in the 19th century, as their summer residences were based here.
7. Coimbra – a city with student vibes
From 1139 until 1260 Coimbra was the capital of Portugal and is now known as the ‘City of Students’. Despite being the fourth largest urban centre in Portugal it has a population of just 106,582 people – around one fifth of the population of Lisbon.
The city is still medieval in its feel, with many of the buildings dating back to the Roman Empire, as well as an aqueduct and numerous original cryptoporticus (covered corridor or passageway).
The university buildings are also recognised as being a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. This integrated university city is an example of how university students can coexist in peace with locals.
6. Aveiro – the Venice of Portugal
Located on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean, Aveiro is one of Portugal’s most important ports. The region is popular with boat enthusiasts, boasting an extensive canal network it is often referred to as the ‘Portuguese Venice’.
Aveiro also has a number of sister cities including locations in Tunisia, Japan and Mozambique, and is well known for its historic production of salt and ceramics.
5. Cascais – surfers’ paradise
Known as the ‘heart of the Portuguese Riviera’, Cascais is great if you like the beaches of the Algarve.
If you’re seeking an all-rounder holiday, Cascais is the ideal destination for families. A former fishing town, it’s now a popular spot for watersports and nature hikes.
If you’re a keen surfer, or just keen to try, head here. It’s growing in popularity as a surf spot but still undiscovered enough that you won’t be fighting for waves.
4. Braga – perfect for exploring churches and a cathedral
Braga is Portugal’s third-largest city and is heavily connected to the historical and spiritual ties that still exist in the country.
The highlight of Braga’s calendar is Holy Week in April. This elaborate affair is popular with people from all over the world.
The atmosphere created is medieval, reminding tourists and locals alike that Braga is still the ecclesiastical centre of Portugal.
Taking place over four consecutive days, the main events take place in the city’s 11th century Roman cathedral
3. Douro Valley – perfect for wine lovers
Home of all the wines, Douro Valley has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2001.
The valleys are most quiet throughout the season, except for when the autumn harvest takes place, then it becomes a bustling hive of vineyard owners and wine enthusiasts.
If you want to spend your summer wine tasting while looking at stunning views of acres of vineyards, Douro is your best bet.
2. Reserva Natural das Berlengas – an exclusive gem
Just 10km from Peniche, Reserva Natural das Berlengas or the Berlengas Archipelago is a largely untouched part of Portugal.
Consisting of three islands, Berlengas is home to a number of birds including endangered species such as the Puffin. The region is also brimming with marine life – perfect if you are a diving enthusiast.
Of the three islands, only Berlenga is inhabited by people, many of whom live on the island to work in services which are deemed necessary, such as the operation of the lighthouse.
If you’re looking for the ultimate sanctuary, Berlenga is it, with only 350 people being allowed on the island at any given time. Visiting the island is only possible by ferry which makes two trips a day between the months of May and September.
1. Peniche – Portugal’s crown jewel
Once a former island, geography has made Peniche much more accessible to the residents of Portugal and tourists. We’ve made it our number one recommendation because it encapsulates all of Portugal’s modernity whilst paying homage to its past.
Just an hour’s drive from Lisbon, the coastal town of Peniche is famous for its historical harbour and old walls. The best part about Peniche remains in the old town where the fortress has been since the 15th century. It was used by the military until the 1970s and has since been home to refugees from the then independent African colonies.
Today the fortress is home to a museum, which contains artefacts from when the fortress was used as a prison by former dictator António de Oliveira Salazar. It is also a short ferry journey from the stunning Berlengas.
How to keep your luggage safe as European airports lose hundreds of bags
Lost luggage is piling up at Frankfurt Airport as customers face “disgraceful” queues and last-minute cancellations.
Staffing shortages, last minute airline cancellations, and booming traveller numbers have created a perfect storm at the beleaguered German airport.
“Due to high passenger numbers, we are experiencing disruptions and longer wait times for passengers,” an airport spokesperson tweeted on Saturday.
Photos taken inside the terminal reveal winding lines of suitcases, unclaimed by their owners.
“#Lufthansa my luggage has been sitting in Frankfurt airport for 2 days… this is the second day of my daughter’s wedding event in Ibiza and our whole wedding party hasn’t got our bags yet,” user Wendy Marciano tweeted.
UK’s Heathrow airport is also facing unprecedented disruption. Last week, technical issues with the airport’s luggage system resulted in mounds of abandoned cases left in baggage halls.
Some passengers have said the luggage, which has been sitting in terminals for up to 10 days, is beginning to stink.
What’s behind the baggage issues at European airports?
As travel experiences go, there’s little worse than watching the minutes tick by in a stationary line, trying to work out if you’ll be able to make it to your gate before the flight leaves.
But discovering your luggage has been lost is right up there too, and it’s been a reality many holidaymakers have faced over the past few months.
“Hundreds of passengers across the country (the UK) are ending up separated from their baggage for hours and some even days, as the baggage claim areas pile up,” says Paul Stewart, managing director of luggage shipping company My Baggage.
“Many have been asked to submit missing bag claims, which could result in weeks before the airline sends their belongings via courier.”
This is another knock-on effect of the recent staffing issues across Europe. Baggage handlers are struggling to keep up with the sudden influx of tourists since COVID restrictions were scrapped. Airlines – which are responsible for your luggage – made thousands of employees redundant at the start of the pandemic, and are now struggling to rehire them in time.
Early starts and low wages are making it tricky for airlines to attract new staff, who must then undergo weeks-long security vetting.
Photos of piles of abandoned suitcases shared on social media are the other side of this coin. Some travellers resorted to leaving their belongings behind for the night rather than staying to face another hour watching an empty conveyor belt.
If you have baggage separation issues, here are some handy tips to help you get your items back.
Lost luggage? Keep calm and call your airline
“If your luggage fails to turn up at your destination airport, the best thing you can do is stay calm,” says Stewart.
“There are plenty of options that can make a big difference in approaching lost luggage with the most important being reporting the problem to your airline immediately as you’re more likely to get compensation.”
Be sure to leave your contact information when you call the airline so they can keep you updated. Most airlines, including easyJet, will deliver your luggage to your home if delayed or lost.
In some cases, if your travel or home insurance will also cover lost luggage, Stewart suggests it may be more effective to make a claim this way than through the airline your flight was with.
Pack light and travel with handheld luggage
It’s easier said than done for some holidaymakers, but packing less could be part of the solution. Only taking hand luggage will cut down on waiting times at check-in and baggage pick-up.
Packing smarter will bring you more peace of mind too. Try to fit your electronics and other valuables like jewellery into carry-on baggage, so you can keep an eye on them.
British Airways advises this at the best of times – as it doesn’t accept liability for lost valuables, cash or documents in checked baggage unless you declare it has a higher value at the check-in desk, and pay an extra fee.
It may also be worth getting travel insurance before the journey that covers the loss of any valuables during your trip.
And in the event that your luggage is lost, you’ll thank your past self for packing essentials like toiletries and a change of underwear in your carry on bag.
Could a luggage courier service be the answer?
As a luggage shipping company, MyBaggage does have a horse in this race. But a courier service is looking ever more attractive to Easter travellers wanting to avoid at least some of the queues.
“Using a luggage shipping company allows passengers to travel knowing their luggage will be waiting for them at their destination, and can more than half wait times as they can avoid queues and ever-growing wait times for baggage reclaim,” says Stewart.
For a 20kg suitcase from your home to a hotel in Spain, for example, the company charges £36 (€43) for delivery in three to four days, which may well be cheaper than checking a bag on the airline you’re flying with.
Air New Zealand’s ultra-long-haul Boeing 787-9 cabins
The new Business Premier seats bring Air New Zealand’s business class experience closer in line with other airlines
Business Premier is based on Safran’s Versa seat platform
Business Premier has generously sized side furniture for personal items during long flights
17.5 hours is a long time for a passenger on an ultra-long-haul flight. But spare a thought for the crew: we will look into how their rest needs are addressed in the B787-9s
Business Premier Luxe adds a little more space, a privacy door, and a seat for companion dining
Business Premier Luxe features a larger ottoman for companion dining
The comfort features of Safran’s Versa will face the toughest test on Air New Zealand’s ultra-long-haul routes
Note the closed privacy door on the Business Premier Luxe seat to the right of the image
The premium economy seats feature large seatback IFE displays and privacy headrests
Premium Economy is sure to be a popular travel option on Air New Zealand’s ULH routes. The airline has selected the ZIMPrivacy seat from ZIM Aircraft Seating, which was a runner-up in its category at the 2022 Crystal Cabin Awards
Economy Skynest is a fantastic option for ULH economy flyers, and for Air New Zealand’s ancillary revenues. As Skynest pods will only be bookable for a few hours, they will be a tricky pricing proposition, but one the airline has doubtless analysed to get the right balance
The Economy Skynest bunks may look simple but they are a significant innovation for the passenger experience. Airlines around the world will be closely watching their pricing and commercial success – especially as the design is available to licence
A small space but a big advance: Economy Skynest is a major moment in cabin design
Top destinations the French travel in France
International travelers may prioritize visits to the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre when they visit France.
But French residents have other ideas.
Border restrictions during the pandemic largely gave locals the chance to explore their country without foreign tourists, which in 2019 numbered some 90 million.
The French did not squander the opportunity. More than two-thirds of French residents traveled in 2021, with 84% of France’s metropolitan residents choosing to stay within the country, according to the French tourism marketing research firm Raffour Interactif.
Top destinations
As the desire for nature and outdoor activities grew during the pandemic, several areas emerged as top destinations among local travelers, said Maud Bailly, the CEO of southern Europe for the multinational hospitality company Accor, which has more than 1,600 hotels in France.
Domestic travelers were drawn to the coasts of Brittany — or Bretagne in French — because of the “the sea [and] the wideness of the landscape,” she said. The northwest province is home to charming seaside towns, such as Cancale and the walled port city of Saint-Malo, famous for its gastronomy and history.
On the southern side of the country, the famed French Riviera — notably the chic coastal areas near Cannes and Nice — attracted local visitors for the same reasons, she said.
While Covid pummeled tourism in French Polynesia, some islands closer to the mainland drew many local tourists, said Bailly. Ile de Re, off France’s west coast, fared well because of its proximity to Paris — it’s less than five hours away by car, she said — while visitors also went to the “super famous, fantastic” island of Belle Ile in the north, as well as Corsica in the south.
“When people are going to Corsica … they’re texting me [saying] ’it’s no use going to Maldives because the water looks the same,” she said. She spoke to CNBC from the Hotel Molitor Paris-MGallery where, she said, many Parisians were enjoying staycations.
From skiing in the Pyrenees to diving in the Mediterranean, it’s the diversity of landscapes and experiences in France — which is about twice the size of Colorado — that make it so popular, said Bailly.
“I believe that the richness of this small country, with so many different possibilities of entertainment and holiday in only one place — is a bit unique,” she said.
Secrets and ‘little gems’
Most places beloved by the French eventually become popular with foreign tourists too, said Bailly.
But one exception, at least for now, is the Alsace wine route.
“You can just go to Strasbourg and then start by car, jumping from a village to another one and just tasting and discovering the wine, the castles … the landscapes,” she said. “It’s pretty secret.”
The secret is out on places such as Beaune and Macon in the world-renowned wine region of Burgundy. Both were popular with domestic travelers last year, she said.
Before the pandemic, nearly 60% of France’s wine tourists were domestic travelers, said Martin Lhuillier, head of wine tourism at Atout France, the country’s tourism development agency.
One of his top “insider tips” is to visit Jura, one of the smallest wine regions in France, to visit the village of Chateau-Chalon, he said. There, visitors can try the area’s “heart and soul” — its vin jaune, or yellow wine.
Bailly and Lhuillier both recommend the French department of Dordogne. Located between the Loire Valley and the Pyrenees, it has “unspoilt natural jewels” like Bergerac and Duras, said Lhuillier.
Though it’s less chic than other parts of France, Dordogne is a place “where you can really enjoy French art de vivre, gastronomy and nature,” said Bailly.
France’s “art de vivre” — literally “the art of living” — is part of the reason that France has for decades been among the most popular destinations for international travelers. The emphasis on enjoying life is omnipresent — along boulevards of Paris, within the rooms of the Palace of Versailles and inside the country’s restaurants, which collectively have more Michelin stars than any other country in the world.
But Bailly said it’s in the “more secret, discreet places” that travelers can really “rest and reconnect to the French way of living.”
The ‘most beautiful’ villages
Another place in Dordogne, Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne, is one of the newest villages on the list of the “most beautiful villages in France.”
The list, which started 40 years ago, names 168 villages of exceptional heritage and beauty. Each is evaluated on 30 criteria, including heritage sites and architecture as well as smaller details such as hidden electrical wires. There’s less than a 1-in-5 chance of making the list, according to the list’s website.
Southern France has the highest concentration of these villages, with more than 75% located in provinces like Nouvelle Aquitaine, Occitanie and Provence-Alpes-Cote-d’Azur.
The television show “Le Village Prefere des Francais” — or “The Favorite Village of the French” — also attracts visitors to lesser-known spots in the country. Fourteen villages are shortlisted each year — one in each region in France — with the winner crowned by public vote.
Last year’s winner drew more tourists: the tiny hilltop town of Sancerre, which is one of the most recognizable appellations for French Sauvignon Blanc.
The same will likely happen for Bergheim, a village along the Alsace Wine Route, which was crowned this year’s winner on Wednesday.
Bailly said travelers can build an entire trip around these villages.
“It’s a more private, domestic, cultural way of looking at France,” she said. “It’s not Saint-Tropez, it’s not Mont Saint-Michel or Eiffel Tower, but it’s also France with the richness of its history.”
Monica Buchanan Pitrelli www.cnbc.com
What are your rights when it comes to flight cancellations?
Strikes, slowdowns and staff shortages are causing chaos with Europe’s air travel, but what are your rights when it comes to flight cancellations?
Under EU rules, if your flight is cancelled the airline must give you a refund or reschedule the flight, even if it means using a different carrier.
You are also entitled to extra compensation and accommodation expenses, if necessary.
“If you have a storm or if you have a strike from the airport staff, for instance, which is an extraordinary circumstance, you don’t have the right to compensation,” Steven Berger, a legal officer at The European Consumer Organisation (BEUC), told Euronews.
“In other situations, you have the right to compensation. The amount of this compensation varies on the distance of your flights.”
This can range from €250 to €600.
According to BEUC, airlines often leave passengers in the dark, failing to make the rules clear. It wants more regulations to include automatic compensation if things go wrong.
“There should be a deterrent effect on the airlines to avoid the replication of the different unfair practices or the fact that consumers have to wait for a month to be reimbursed. Where in the regulation it’s seven days,” Berger said.
“We need really to make sure that the rights are respected in terms of timeline for reimbursement. It should be in cash and not in vouchers. This should always be a decision of the consumers to be reimbursed in vouchers or not.”
Belgian Daniel Rothier is one of the many victims of the recent spate of cancellations.
His trip to Verona earlier this month became a nightmare when his inbound flight was cancelled with no explanation.
“On June 7th we learnt, by email, that the flight on June 8th was cancelled,” Rottier told Euronews. “The only solution proposed was to try to get a seat on the plane leaving on June 10th, two days later.
“We asked our Airbnb host if we could stay longer. After some trouble we managed to stay longer, although not at the same price…It was a Ryanair flight. They didn’t give us any explanation. We tried to contact them by mail, telephone, but with no answer.”
He is now claiming compensation for the extra costs incurred.
Ryanair disputes this claim, however.
It told Euronews in a statement that: “Ryanair is operating its full flight schedules this summer, with no disruptions due to staffing shortages, unlike many other airlines who have failed to plan adequately for the return of travel post COVID. Air Traffic Controller (ATC) strikes and airport staff shortages may cause minor disruption throughout the summer season.
“Any claims that Ryanair’s compensation claim systems are unfair and complicated are completely false. All passengers who encounter disruption are informed of all their options and entitlements through email/SMS and all information is readily available on Ryanair.com.”
In some cases, as in Brussels last week, flights were cancelled due to airport staff striking. In this case it is not the fault of the airline, raising even more questions about compensation.
Dublin airport has taken the matter into its own hands, announcing that it will refund passengers who have been affected by flight cancellations.
So far though, the Irish airport is an outlier, with many consumers still left out of pocket.
Get paid to review the country’s National Parks
One of the country’s most popular lifestyle websites has published a job listing for an outdoor adventurer to explore, document and review National Parks around the US. The successful applicant will be paid $200 per week to review 63 parks over an 18 month period, including activities available, hiking trails, cycling routes, and suitability for families and solo travelers. The chosen reviewer will have their expenses covered, and will also receive an additional $500 for each review submitted.
A leading lifestyle publication is on the hunt for an avid adventurer with a love of the great outdoors to visit and review National Parks across the United States – from the Grand Canyon to the Everglades.
Advertised by Lucky Mag, the listing states that the selected candidate will have the opportunity to travel around the country for 18 months, and will need to ‘put their hiking boots to good use’ to earn the $200 weekly stipend, plus expenses.
The chosen applicant will be required to document their experience in each National Park via detailed reviews and photographs, which will be the focal point of an in-depth guide on the Lucky Mag website.
Anyone wishing to apply for the role can do so here: https://www.luckymag.com/thrifty/get-paid-review-national-parks/ – Applications close July 10th.
Government records show there were over 297 million recreation visits to National Parks in 2021*, that’s a 20% increase from the previous year when facilities were forced to shut down due to Covid-19. The guide created from this research aims to promote further visitation, and continue to increase the number of visitors each year.
As the selected candidate will be reviewing the parks over an 18 month period, they will experience various types of seasonal weather conditions, and prove National Parks are not just desirable during the warmer months, but throughout the year.
The selected candidate will be asked to research and review the activities available at each National Park, such as cycling, tours, and kayaking, as well as public facilities, hiking trails, cycling routes, scenery throughout the park, accessibility, and suitability for solo travelers, families, and large groups.
Applicants will also be responsible for speaking to locals and those who work within the National Parks, to uncover their stories and provide a rich background for each area.
The job role will include visiting each of the country’s 63 National Parks over an 18-month period, with time allocated for travel and vacations. All expenses will be covered, including the cost of accommodation and transport between the parks, as well as an additional $500 for each review submitted.
As part of the application process, applicants must provide a 200 word summary of why they believe they would be best suited for the role, and a brief description of their favorite adventure.
The cutoff date for applications is July 10th, 2022, with the successful candidate being selected by the end of July. Applicants must be 21 and over, fluent in English (both written and spoken), and absolutely must have an ‘adventurous spirit’.
Christina Davies, editor-in-chief at Lucky Mag, said, “At Lucky Mag, we’re all about providing content that is both detailed and reliable. We want to promote the natural beauty that’s all around us, and thought it would be a great opportunity for a member of the public to provide their honest, firsthand experience – especially someone who loves the great outdoors! After all, what better way to spend 18 months than exploring America’s most stunning areas of conservation?”
“Our aim is to curate what we hope will be the most accurate and valuable list of National Parks yet, and provide our readers with a unique view of some of the country’s most spectacular scenery. So, if you have a passion for all things adventure, then please apply now!”
For any questions, please contact: Evie Cripps, evie@weareradioactive.com
Lost luggage at Heathrow airport ‘stinks like a dumpster’
Travellers at London’s Heathrow airport have been complaining about the smell coming from piles of unclaimed luggage. Last week, technical issues with the airport’s luggage system resulted in mounds of abandoned cases left in baggage halls.
Some passengers have said the luggage, which has been sitting in terminals for up to 10 days, is beginning to smell.
Stinking baggage at Heathrow airport
Customers at Heathrow have been posting photos of the piles of unclaimed baggage on social media. Passengers have also complained about an unpleasant odour coming from the cases. One traveller compared the smell to “festering bush meat.”
The Twitter user added that the bags “stink like a sun-roasted dumpster.”
Another holidaymaker said Terminal 2’s baggage claim area “stinks of poo or dead animals.”
Heathrow luggage chaos
Suitcases have been piling up in Heathrow’s baggage claims after a glitch with the airport’s luggage system last week.
Passengers have had to wait days to receive their baggage or still haven’t got them back. One traveller who arrived at Heathrow on June 18th was still waiting for her luggage nearly 10 days later.
“I went to search on June 27 and was told it was likely in the basement with over 500 other bags. When can I expect an update, or better, my bag back?!?” she wrote.
Another social media user pleaded for the urgent return of her bags which contain her medicine.
“I literally beg you to send me my checked bag. It’s been 5 days and I need medication that is in it.”
The passenger added that she wouldn’t have checked her bag had the airport made travellers aware of the problems. Heathrow airport has responded to complaints saying the recent baggage delay has now been resolved.
“We are working round the clock with airlines to reunite passengers with their bags as quickly as possible,” the airport wrote on Twitter.
Cancelled flights and travel disruption
The baggage chaos comes amid wider travel disruption following a post-pandemic surge in demand for air travel. Airlines have been forced to cancel thousands of flights and travellers have been stuck in lengthy queues at check-in and security in airports across Europe.
At Heathrow, hundreds of check-in and ground staff have said they will take industrial action this summer over low wages.
Which European countries are safe for pregnant women?
If you’re thinking of booking one last pampering holiday before submitting to nappies and baby feeding times, you’re not alone.
Babymoons have become increasingly popular for expectant parents in recent years. Often seen as a final romantic fling, they’re a way for soon-to-be mums and dads to smooth away anxieties and relax as a couple before baby arrives.
But that wasn’t how things turned out for Andrea Prudente and Jay Weeldreyer, an American couple who suffered a horrifying ordeal on their babymoon in Malta last week.
It was an experience that every pregnant woman dreads. While on holiday 16 weeks pregnant, Prudente suffered a partial miscarriage. To make matters even worse, she was then refused life-saving medical treatment because of Malta’s strict anti-abortion laws.
“We wanted to come here and have a romantic, connecting and loving two-week holiday to celebrate having a family,” Weeldreyer told Euronews last week. “Instead we are having to face Andrea’s peril.”
Prudente was flown to Mallorca on Thursday to have the emergency procedure she needed. But the tragic incident has raised a sobering question.
Should women be considering local abortion laws when choosing where they intend to go on holiday?
Is Malta a good place for a babymoon?
Local abortion laws become painfully relevant to women travellers who start to miscarry while abroad.
Malta is currently the only country in the EU with an outright ban on abortion, including in situations where the woman’s health is at risk.
Medical terminology isn’t straightforward when it comes to miscarriage. In the case of Prudente, the procedure she needed to safely manage her miscarriage was classed as abortion treatment because the foetus still had a heartbeat.
“The way the Maltese are talking about this is that it is an abortion, the truth of the matter is that it is an incomplete miscarriage,” said Weeldreyer, the father of the baby. “There is no possibility that this pregnancy results in a viable baby.”
In Malta, doctors who help a woman have an abortion face up to four years in jail and can have their licence to practise medicine permanently revoked.
Following Prudente’s experience last week, a group of 135 doctors in Malta filed a legal protest asking the government to urgently review Malta’s abortion laws.
But, for now, travelling to Malta on a babymoon comes with potential risks.
Which European countries make it difficult to get an abortion?
Malta isn’t the only European country with an anti-abortion stance.
Poland – a country popular for city breaks such as Krakow and Warsaw – controversially rolled back women’s rights in 2020 by issuing a near-total ban on abortions. They are now only legal in cases of rape or incest, or when the pregnancy threatens the life of the woman.
And although Northern Ireland decriminalised abortions in 2019, the local government has been criticised for failing to establish full abortion services there in the past 2.5 years.
Many women in Northern Ireland still do not have access to the medical rights that have been enshrined in UK law.
Which other countries have strict abortion laws?
The overturning of Roe vs Wade in the US last Friday left women around the world reeling, and brought global abortion rights into the spotlight.
There are currently only a handful of countries that, like Malta, have total bans on abortions. The list includes Egypt, the Philippines, Laos, Suriname, Nicaragua and Honduras.
But many others – such as Mexico, Brazil, Chile, Indonesia, Sri Lanka and Tanzania – will only perform abortions to save a woman’s life.
And while some of these destinations might not seem likely choices for women planning a babymoon, the fact is that women can become pregnant while anywhere in the world.
Are risks of miscarriage an issue for women travellers?
Early miscarriage is more common than most people think. According to Tommy’s, the largest UK charity specialising in pregnancy complications, the chance of miscarrying in the first three months is 1 in 4.
The risk of miscarriage significantly decreases after the first trimester, affecting only 1 per cent to 2 per cent of pregnancies up to 24 weeks.
Although Tommy’s travel advice doesn’t cover international termination laws at the moment, the charity told Euronews Travel that it is looking at putting together guidance on this issue, given recent events in the US and elsewhere.
The message? If you’re going to travel and you’ve got a womb, it might be wise to investigate a destination’s stance on abortion and miscarriage before booking your plane ticket.
10 Lesser-Known Caribbean islands you should visit
They May Not Be Hotspots, but They Deserve a Visit
The Caribbean is a beloved region of the world for travelers. Warm turquoise waters, beautiful beaches, lush islands and welcoming and diverse cultures all create an attractive region of the world that is a fan favorite for everyone! But some destinations are more popular than others. In this slideshow, we’ll present ten less popular Caribbean islands that we think you should visit, from islands boasting fascinating histories to lush, secluded isles that offer sanctuaries for more animal life than human. Click through this slideshow to see some incredible Caribbean islands you might not know much about.
Anguilla
Anguilla is a British Overseas Territory that consists of a main island and many surrounding smaller islands. It’s also a Caribbean paradise. The coastline ranges from tall, dramatic cliffs to soft-sand beaches, while the rest of the island is best discovered through a guided hike with the Anguilla National Trust.
Along the way, travelers can enjoy views of the island’s rocky coastline and get to know its past, visiting the ruins of a sugar plantation estate. The Big Spring Heritage Site offers views of petroglyphs that date over 1,000 years old and provide an insight into the island’s first inhabitants, who are believed to have lived on the island as far back as 600 AD.
Other fun experiences include birdwatching at East End Pond, an internationally recognized reserve for wetland birds, watching a boat race, the island’s favorite sporting event, or enjoying a rousing game of dominoes, a favorite across the Caribbean.
Montserrat
The volcanic island of Montserrat is a true nature lover’s paradise. Part of the Lesser Antilles and a British Overseas Territory, it’s home to verdant jungles, endemic plant and animal species, a smoking volcano and is surrounded by coral reefs. One of the islands that Christopher Columbus found, it boasts a history dating even farther back, but it was the Irish who settled on the island during the mid-1600s that gave it its nickname of “Emerald Isle of the Caribbean.”
Nature lovers can enjoy the island’s black-sand volcanic beaches, like Little Bay Beach, before heading off into the jungle in search of the endemic Montserrat oriole on the 1.3-mile Oriole Walkway Trail or discovering the beautiful fruit bats that call the island their home at the Bat Cave at Rendezvous Bay. Center Hills, a nature reserve, and the island’s botanical garden are also great places to discover the endemic animal and plant life, including orchids.
Hikers can enjoy the best views of the smoking Soufrière Hills volcano at Garibaldi Hills. History lovers will enjoy hiking to the Amerindian petroglyphs along the Soldier Ghaut Trail, dating back 1,000 to 1,500 years, or taking a tour to Plymouth, which was destroyed by a volcanic eruption in 1995-96, leaving it frozen in time.
Grenada
Nicknamed the “Spice Isle” due to its numerous nutmeg plantations, the island of Grenada and its other islands offer 40 beaches, 15 waterfalls, five chocolate factories and over 30 dive sites, including the Caribbean’s largest shipwreck and the world’s first underwater sculpture park. The island of Grenada itself is home to the colorful capital of St. George’s, where history lovers can learn about Grenada’s history at Fort Frederick and Fort Matthew.
Travelers can tour the Gouyave Nutmeg Processing Station to learn how nutmeg is made, then take some home as a souvenir, or they can head to one of the nutmeg plantations or gardens to see how they grow. Nature lovers can explore two national parks: Levera National Park and the more mountainous Grand Etang National Park & Forest Reserve. Participating in wellness activities, wandering the garden or sampling award-winning honey are all great experiences for travelers visiting Jessamine Eden Wellness Farm.
Grenada offers the best of the Caribbean, and so much more that’s unique to its islands.
Dominica
Dominica, commonly confused with the Dominican Republic, is a verdant Caribbean island with rainforests and natural hot springs warmed by volcanic activity. Like many Caribbean islands, it was inhabited long before the European discovery of the region. The Kalinago people (also called Carib) called the island Waitukubuli, which means “tall is her body” due to the steep volcanic mountains.
It also offers a deeply rich personal history, having been inhabited since circa 3100 BC; it remains the only island with a living population of indigenous Caribbean people. Responsible travelers can join a Kalinago guide into Kalinago Territory to learn about how they’ve preserved their culture over time.
Its volcanic heritage also makes it the scene for thriving coral reefs and hundreds of different marine animals, which snorkelers and scuba divers can enjoy without crowds, like Champagne Reef.
Wellness travel is also alive on this island: due to the natural occurrence of hot springs, there are plenty of spas located across the island, usually offering outdoor areas surrounded by tropical forests.
The island also offers three national parks and a Work in Nature program that allows remote workers to enjoy up to 18 months of Caribbean living with a variety of benefits.
La Desirade, Guadeloupe
La Desirade is one of the islands that comprise Guadeloupe in the French West Indies. Named “the Forgotten” in French, it’s a naturally gorgeous island that’s a must-visit for anyone visiting the bigger islands in the chain. The island is considered one of the oldest in the Caribbean geologically, which makes it home to many endemic plant and animal species; as such, it’s also designated a National Geological Reserve.
The surrounding waters are also part of the AGOA Marine Mammal Reserve, which aims to protect whales from harmful human interactions, both direct and indirect; twenty-four species of whales and dolphins have been identified in the waters around La Desirade.
While there, travelers can discover the large population of iguanas that are protected on the island, enjoy a fun beach day at Fifi Beach or hike the River Trail in search of some of the island’s endemic plant species.
Les Saintes, Guadeloupe
Another destination in Guadeloupe is the collection of islands called Les Saintes, or “The Saints.” This collection of nine islands has only two that are inhabited by humans, Terre de Haut and Terre de Bas. The islands’ beautiful beaches, photogenic towns and culinary focus will delight beachgoers and foodies alike.
Travelers can enjoy the Pain de Sucre beach, taste the Tourment D’Amour tart, a local delicacy; hike up to Fort Napoleon, where they’ll also find a cactus conservatory; and take photos of the gorgeous Les Saintes Bay, considered by UNESCO as one of the most beautiful bays in the world and learn of its history with naval battles and pirates.
A trip to Terre de Bas brings travelers to a less populated but larger island than Terre de Haut, where they can hike and discover the island’s ancient history.
Jost Van Dyke, British Virgin Islands
Jost Van Dyke is one of the smallest islands in the popular British Virgin Islands, but its attractions are definitely worth discovering during a visit. It boasts an ancient history like many of the islands on this list, but its natural beauty is at the forefront, with turquoise water that seems to glow and plenty of white-sand beaches to enjoy.
It’s also home to the Bubbly Pool, a warm swimming hole. Travelers can book a variety of accommodations to stay there, or they can boat over from a nearby island for a day trip. Either way, a variety of tour operators offer eco-tours throughout the island, as well as snorkeling or scuba diving excursions.
Inagua, The Bahamas
At the southernmost tip of The Bahamas lies Inagua, two sparsely populated yet very important islands. With less than 1,000 human inhabitants, it’s nicknamed the birdwatching capital of The Bahamas, and for good reason.
It’s home to 80,000 flamingos and 140 species of native and migratory birds, all protected by three national parks. Great Inagua and Little Inagua, the two islands, offer a practically untouched Caribbean wilderness, perfect for adventurers, wildlife enthusiasts and travelers looking to get away from tourist-dense destinations.
Accommodation options can be humble or sparse depending on availability, but travelers can boat in from other islands in The Bahamas for a day trip, too.
Nevis, St. Kitts and Nevis
Nevis is the smaller island of the two-island nation of St. Kitts and Nevis, an up-and-coming cruise destination. It’s most recognized as being the birthplace of American founding father Alexander Hamilton, of which they will unveil a new statue in July at the island’s Museum of Nevis History.
The island offers pristine natural beaches and forests, plus a rich personal history as home to indigenous peoples prior to the European discovery. Along with St. Kitts, it became one of the islands notable for its sugar production, many abandoned estates which survive in differing states of ruin for exploration and learning experiences.
Other attractions include the Botanical Gardens of Nevis, in which travelers can have a luncheon and tea, the Bath Hotel and Spring House, which dates back to the 1700s, as well as the historic town of Charlestown, one of the best surviving examples of 18th and 19th-century Georgian-style buildings. The island also offers a range of accommodations, from the Four Seasons Resort Nevis to eco-friendly, family-owned Oualie Beach Resort.
Saba, Caribbean Netherlands
While it’s not the least populated island on this list, the island of Saba is one that feels remote, though it’s only a 90-minute ferry ride away from St. Maarten. It’s part of the Netherlands and boasts only five square miles of land. A true remote worker’s paradise, it’s home to a rich history that includes indigenous peoples (from 3,000 years ago) to pirates and more.
During the 1800s, it was nicknamed the “Isle of Women,” since the majority of the menfolk obtained jobs sailing or fishing throughout the year, leaving the women to do work on land with everything from child-rearing to hard labor, medicine and more. Today, travelers wanting a small-town feel with rich Caribbean culture and remote, untouched wilderness will enjoy Saba.
There are four main towns on the island: its capital, The Bottom; Windwardside, the more tourist-centric town, St. John’s, perched high up on the mountain and Zion’s Hill, nicknamed Hell’s Gate for its now-defunct sulfur mine. Travelers can head over to the Saba Heritage Center to learn about the island’s history, talk with its resident archaeologist and perhaps even join them on an excavation. Divers and snorkelers will especially enjoy Saba Marine Park.
Air New Zealand unveils its new 787 Dreamliner cabin
Air New Zealand has unveiled its new Boeing Dreamliner cabins. The aircraft are due to be delivered in 2024 and will feature new Business Premier Luxe seats designed for more space and privacy, as well as Skynest, which Air New Zealand says are the world’s first sleep pods in the sky for Economy travellers.
The airline says the importance of a good night’s sleep is clear following feedback from extensive customer research by the carrier over five years, and there’s a need for more space and comfort, so the new experience is designed around creating a home away from home that leaves customers refreshed and raring to go at their destination.
Air New Zealand CEO Greg Foran said: “New Zealand’s location puts us in a unique position to lead on the ultra-long-haul travel experience. We have zeroed in on sleep, comfort and wellness because we know how important it is for our customers to arrive well rested. Whether they are heading straight into a meeting or to their first holiday hotspot, they want to hit the ground running.
“It’s a proud moment to finally unveil five years of hard mahi, in what truly is a cabin of possibility – one that will provide customers with options to get some shut eye wherever they’re sitting.
“We wanted to offer our Economy customers a lie-flat option and that’s how Skynest was born. It’s going to be a real game changer for the economy travel experience.”
According to Chief Customer and Sales Officer Leanne Geraghty, the cabin’s interior design is inspired by the uniqueness of Aotearoa, from the forest-inspired carpet to the seats that draw inspiration from the Tui bird, New Zealand’s native bird.
The carrier has also added a Sky Pantry to the Premium Economy and Economy cabins. Passengers can stretch their legs, grab a bite to eat and hydrate at their leisure throughout their journey.
According to Air New Zealand, sustainability has been at the heart of the design process. Using modern fabrics, rather than leather, has saved around one kilogramme in weight per Business Premier and Premium Economy seat, reducing overall carbon emissions, and in Premium cabins, the airline will also switch to serviceware that is 20% lighter. In Economy cabins, the new serviceware will reduce plastic dishes used in flight by 28 million every year.
Top Destination News From June
Catch Up on June’s Biggest Destination News
Destinations have been booming this summer, and there has been no shortage of good news about beloved destinations around the world. From countries relaxing their pandemic-era entry requirements or getting rid of them entirely to destinations being recognized for their recovery in travel and tourism, June has welcomed a lot of good news, which we can all agree is a welcome change from the past two years.
Click through this slideshow to catch up on the destination news you might have missed in June, and click the links provided on each slide to read more about each topic.
Consider signing up for TravelPulse’s daily newsletter so you don’t miss a beat!
Italy Drops Remaining Pandemic-Era Entry Requirements
Good news for travelers heading to Italy this summer. On June 1, the country dropped all of its pandemic-era entry requirements, no longer requiring any travelers to provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination, a recent negative test result or any other entry requirement.
Travel To Cuba Made Easier as DOT Lifts Trump-Era Flight Restrictions
The U.S. Department of Transportation lifted a Trump-era ban on all commercial or chartered flights to land in any airport in Cuba except Havana’s Jose Marti International Airport. This should begin making it easier for travelers to enter the island nation. The change went into effect on June 1.
The City of New Orleans Accredited as a GBAC Star Destination
The city of New Orleans has been awarded the Global Biorisk Advisory Council’s STAR Destination accreditation, one of only five cities in the nation to do so. The accreditation recognizes the city’s commitment to infectious disease mitigation and prevention using enhanced sanitation and cleaning measures.
Popular Caribbean Destinations Drop Several COVID-Related Restrictions
Early in June, several Caribbean nations relaxed their COVID-19 entry requirements and restrictions. Countries include Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Nevis To Unveil Alexander Hamilton Statue in July
Following the American founding father Alexander Hamilton’s rise to popularity after the hit musical “Hamilton,” his birthplace of Nevis, the second island in the two-island Caribbean nation of St. Kitts and Nevis, will unveil a statue of the founding father on the island on July 22 at the Museum of Nevis History. The statue is called “Alexander Hamilton as a Young Man,” as an homage to his youth spent on the island, and it was sculpted by renowned artist Benjamin Victory, the only living artist to have two works displayed in the National Statuary Hall in the U.S. Capitol Building.
United States Unveils New National Travel and Tourism Strategy
Early in June, the United States Department of Commerce announced a new strategy to bring back international tourists to the country, with goals to welcome 90 million travelers by 2027 and earn $279 billion in traveler spending.
Anguilla Ends Use of Online Entry Portal for Travelers
Anguilla relaxed some of its entry requirements earlier in June, no longer requiring travelers to fill out the online entry portal or test negative upon arrival, as long as they present a recent negative pre-departure test.
Japan Is Now Open for Group Tours – Here’s What You Need To Know
Travelers who are part of approved tour groups can enter Japan for the first time in years as part of the country’s incremental reopening experiment, which began on June 1.
National Park Service Renames Yellowstone’s Mount Doane
The National Park Service has renamed Yellowstone National Park’s Mount Doane to First Peoples Mountain. The decision was unanimous after the U.S. Board on Geographic Names found the name offensive. Its previous name came from Gustavus Doane, who led an expedition to the region in 1870 and participated in the Marias Massacre, which left 173 Piegan Blackfeet dead, including many women, children and elderly, which he bragged about until his death.
Mexico’s International Tourism Revenue Exceeds 2019 Levels
It’s official! At least one country in the world has seen its tourism rise above 2019’s pre-pandemic levels, and unsurprisingly, that country is Mexico. Revenue from the first four months of the year was 3.7 percent higher than in 2019 and 123.8 percent higher than the same time in 2021.
Brazil’s Post-Outbreak Comeback Drew One Million Visitors
Brazil is also seeing great numbers of travelers again: it welcomed one million visitors during the first few months of this year, a 60 percent increase over the entire visitor numbers in all of 2021.
The Bahamas to Eliminate Testing Requirement for Vaccinated Travelers
As of June 19, vaccinated travelers entering The Bahamas no longer need to present a pre-departure test upon arrival; unvaccinated travelers also now have two testing options for their pre-departure tests. Where before they could only present a PCR test, now they can also take a rapid antigen test.
New Zealand Lifts Pre-Departure Testing Requirement
All travelers entering New Zealand no longer need to take a pre-departure test prior to arrival, though a vaccination requirement and post-arrival tests are currently still required.
South Africa Drops All Remaining COVID-19 Travel Restrictions
South Africa has dropped all of its COVID-19 entry requirements and restrictions. Travelers no longer need to present any vaccination proof, test negative prior to arrival or satisfy any other requirements.
Europe Will Add Visitor Fee in May 2023
Beginning May 23, the 26 nations that comprise the European Union and Schengen Area will introduce a new visitor fee through the new European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS), according to an announcement made in late June. The program is similar to the United States’ ESTA program for travelers.
Popular beaches in Sardinia to be protected with towel bans and entry fees
The Italian island of Sardinia is protecting its spectacular beaches from overtourism with multiple new restrictions. The island’s coastline is renowned for its pristine stretches of sand, including its famed pink beach.
But its seaside has also been suffering due to disrespectful visitor behaviour and overcrowding. To safeguard the coastline, the island has capped visitor numbers and introduced fees at some of its most popular beaches.
How is Sardinia protecting its stunning beaches?
Lying off the west coast of Italy, Sardinia has some of the most beautiful beaches in the country. The island is frequently voted as one of the top places in Italy for a seaside holiday.
But the popularity of the island’s coastline has begun to cause problems. The Spiaggia Rosa, located on the outlying Budelli island, draws thousands of tourists a day in summer to admire its magnificent pink sand. But visitors can only see the picturesque sands from a distance on a boat.
Because of the beach’s fame, it has been closed off to visitors since the mid-1990s after its coveted sand began to disappear. The local government took action after tourists were found to be smuggling kilos worth away as souvenirs.
Budelli: New rules for visiting Spiaggia del Cavaliere
This summer, several new regulations and limitations have been introduced on the island’s beaches to protect the natural environment.
On the same island of Budelli, the Spiaggia del Cavaliere joins the Spiaggia Rosa this year in being off-limits to beachgoers.
La Maddalena, Cala Coticcio and Cala Brigantina are capping visitor numbers
In the archipelago of La Maddalena two beaches now have restricted access. Only 60 people a day can visit Cala Coticcio and Cala Brigantina over the summer.
Travellers need to book their slot online and pay €3 per person to access the beaches with a guide.
Currently, visits must be booked by contacting a local guide directly. Authorities say an app will soon be released where visitors can book their tickets.
Several other beaches around the island now only allow access to a limited number of visitors. Cala Sisine permits 1,600 daily visitors and the beach of Santa Maria Navarrese is open to 1,300. At Cala Mariolu, 550 people are allowed per day with a €1 charge per person.
In Villasimius in the southeast, beachgoers heading to Punta Molentis, Riu Trottu and Portu Sa Ruxi are required to pay to access the car park. Each vehicle costs €10 with an additional €1 for each passenger. Cyclists and pedestrians pay €3.
Staff are stationed at car parks and beach access points to check tickets.
Beach towels banned on Pelosa beach
On the west coast, Stintino’s famed Pelosa beach is now only open to a limited number of visitors per day. A maximum of 1,500 people are allowed to access the beach daily until September 30th. Last year, visitor numbers reached as many as 4,000 on some days.
In Ogliastra on the east coast, 300 people a day are permitted on Cala Birìala and beachgoers can only stay for two hours.Similarly, visitors to Cala dei Gabbiani are capped at 350 and must also leave after two hours.How is Italy clamping down on overtourism?
Sardinia joins several other popular tourist destinations that have introduced restrictions as a result of overcrowding.Venice looks set to bring in a booking system and fee to visit the city from 2023 while the Amalfi coast is limiting the number of cars that can drive along its scenic coastal road.
Experts warn travelers to be careful of scams when claiming compensation for a cancelled flight
The entire aviation industry has faced operational issues in last the three months since Covid travel restrictions for UK arrivals were eased.
Airlines and airports have suffered from severe shortages, having let go of thousands of employees during the pandemic, when demand for air travel ground to a halt.
There are an estimated 10,000 of the 160,000 EasyJet flights on sale for July, August and September expected to be cancelled.
As travellers seek compensation for these cancellations, experts are warning those to be extra cautious of scammers and fake travel companies.
Connor Campbell, a personal finance expert at NerdWallet, shares his expert advice on the key signs you should know to avoid being scammed while claiming compensation.
“During the pandemic, travellers were warned of a proliferation of fake travel companies threatening to retain offering refunds and/or compensation for cancelled trips, while secretly stealing personal information – and people should continue to be wary of this during the surge of flight cancellations.
“Often, scams occur when holidaymakers are contacted by criminals purporting to be from travel companies, tour operators and insurers offering to refund or rebook cancelled holidays.
“Other ways scammers will trick people is by setting up fake websites and offering refunds and compensation to holidaymakers.
“Normally, the fake websites or phone numbers appear when people search online for flights.
“Red flags can include booking the flight through the website or over the phone, but when you receive the confirmation email it’s clear that you didn’t get a proper flight ticket.
“Another scenario that can occur is booking a flight on a travel website offering deals and paying with your credit card. After paying, you receive a phone call from the company saying that there’s been a sudden price increase and you need to pay an extra fee to finalise your booking.
“This is an immediate red flag you and a legitimate company wouldn’t do this, meaning you are being scammed.
Connor Campbell shares his expert advice on how to avoid being scammed, the signs to look out for and how to safely claim compensation.
“To avoid being scammed in the first place, before making any purchases make sure you conduct research on a company you come across which you are not familiar with.
“It is important you double-check the URL before you enter personal or payment information. Normally, secure links start with “https:/” and include a lock icon on the purchase page.
“Always be wary of third-party websites and you should always be suspicious of websites that don’t have an available customer service number and no physical address.
“When making an online purchase, you should use a credit card instead of a debit card or your bank account- as fraudulent charges made on a credit card can usually be disputed.
“When it comes to claiming compensation if you receive an email purporting to be sent by a CAA representative, delete it straight away! The CAA advises affected passengers to contact their airline in the first instance.
“If your flight has been cancelled, check the airline’s terms and conditions. Whilst most airlines will provide a refund or an alternative flight, some may also provide assistance during the disruption.
“Also, remember to check your travel insurance as this may cover you for the cost of accommodation and other additional expenses.
“When it comes to protecting your money, never send your personal, credit card or banking details in an email or over the phone, as scammers can use your details to commit identity fraud or steal your money.
“If you ever feel unsure whether you have received a legitimate request, call the airline using contact details from legitimate sources, like through an internet search and telephone directories. Don’t rely on the contact details provided to you in an email or through the phone.”
By Connor, NerdWallet: https://www.nerdwallet.com/uk/travel-insurance
These are the best LGBTQ+ friendly destinations to visit in Europe
It’s Pride month and LGBTQ+ people are fighting for their rights and being celebrated across Europe.
It’s also officially summer time and as many people jet off for a well-deserved break we take a look at the most LGBTQ+ friendly destinations in Europe.
For the sixth year in a row, Malta has topped the charts. The island Mediterranean nation is known for its friendly locals, beautiful beaches and vibrant gay scene after a concerted effort to shift attitudes in a country dominated by Roman Catholic views.
How were the best LGBTQ+ destinations decided?
The annual report by ILGA-Europe rates European countries by their commitments to LGBTQ+ rights, showing the best hotspots for queer holiday makers.
The report ranks European nations based on criteria including constitution, LGBTQ+ health, marriage and adoption equality, legal gender recognition, and hate crime laws.
Which are the top five countries LGBTQ+ travellers?
After Malta, the top five is rounded out by Denmark, Belgium, Norway and Luxembourg.
Denmark was the first nation in the world to provide legal recognition for same-sex partnerships in 1989, while Scandinavian neighbour Norway brought in some of the world’s earliest anti-discrimination laws in 1981. Both nations are known for their cosmopolitan city breaks and beautiful scenery which can be enjoyed in any season provided you pack the right garments.
Meanwhile central European small nations Belgium and Luxembourg are known for their progressive policies and favourable public attitudes to equality. Belgium was the second country in the world to legalise same-sex marriage and elected their first openly gay Prime Minister, Elio Di Rupo, in 2011. Luxembourg meanwhile has the highest public approval for LGBTQ+ equal rights in Europe at 87 per cent.
Thankfully, popular holiday destinations like France, Portugal and Spain all made the top 10 along with the highest-ranking Balkan nation, Montenegro.
Earlier this year France passed a law banning so-called gay conversion therapy, and is widely regarded as progressive on LGBTQ+ rights. Meanwhile, Portugal and Spain, both of which boast popular LGBTQ+ destinations like Gran Canaria, Barcelona, and Porto, have fought to secure their place among the progressive nations since ditching their dictators in the 1960s and 1970s.
Montenegro, an outlier amongst the Balkan nations, places highly on the list thanks to its anti-discrimination laws and pro civil union government stance. However, public attitudes lag behind legislation with 84 per cent of the public telling the World Values Survey they didn’t think homosexuality was justifiable between 2017 – 2020.
The remaining Nordic countries, already famous for their high happiness rankings, are also high-ranked for their progressive politics.
Finland, Iceland and Sweden all made the top 12, with other northern European countries the Netherlands, UK and Germany all coming 13th, 14th and 15th respectively.
What are the worst places for LGBTQ+ travellers?
Hungary, whose ruling Fidesz government has been warned previously by the EU over anti-LGBTQ+ legislation, came 30th.
Poland, whose local administrations previously established so-called ‘LGBT free zones’ unsurprisingly scores lowly at 44th. The bottom of the list is rounded out by Belarus, Russia, Armenia, Turkey and Azerbaijan.
Russia and Belarus are unlikely to attract many tourists in the wake of international sanctions and condemnation after Putin’s invasion of Ukraine. However, the Russian government has already drawn international ire for its ‘Gay Propaganda law’ which, similarly to now-repealed Section 28 in the UK, bans discussing homosexuality in schools.
Gay Pride parades are banned in Russia’s major cities and there are also reports of ‘gay-hunters’ attacking gay men in the street.
Meanwhile in Turkey, President Erdogan’s ruling Justice and Development party have been accused of using a constitutional clause on causing offence to stifle free speech on LGBTQ+ issues. All Pride week activities were banned in Istanbul, the country’s largest city, this year.
It has also been claimed that the Turkish government told Netflix to remove a gay character from one of their scripts or risk losing their license for filming in the country.
Experts reveal top tips on avoiding airport delays, disruption and queues
The return of summer travel has been overshadowed by travel chaos in recent weeks, leaving passengers anxious and confused.
Thousands of people have been left to battle airport queues of up to three hours, delays and thousands of cancellations in many European destinations.
Airports and airlines face staff shortages forcing them to reduce the number of scheduled flights – often at short notice.
Aviation workers themselves are feeling the impact of staff shortages too and now many are threatening industrial action over poor working conditions, pay and job security. In the UK, strikes have also impacted train companies with rail services grinding to a halt.
Half of the rail network was closed on Thursday as tens of thousands of staff took part in the second day of strikes.
Now, with workers at a number of European airlines and airports set to take part in further industrial action and little promise of a solution to staffing issues, the chaos is set to continue into the busy summer season.
So with airports the epicentre of much of this travel chaos, what can you do to minimise the risk of delays?
When should I arrive at the airport?
UK travel expert Simon Calder told ITV’s Good Morning Britain programme in May that airport problems were being exacerbated by anxious passengers turning up hours early for their flights.
“It sounds absolutely mad, but an awful lot of these queues are people who have got a flight at 10am turning up at 5am,” he said.
This means that passengers who arrive within the timeframe specified by their airline are now being caught in queues that are swelling with travellers who have arrived too early.
Manchester Airport has launched a customer campaign urging passengers to arrive three hours before their flights – and no earlier.
The airport’s interim managing director Ian Costigan added, “the airport is asking passengers not to come any earlier than this because they will not be able to check in with their airlines, which could cause unnecessary waits in the terminals.”
Most airports are confident that security queues will improve as large recruitment drives start to reduce staffing pressures over the next few months. But on 6 May a joint statement from ACI Europe and the Airport Services Association (ASA) warned that ground handling problems could persist for much longer.
What can I pack in my hand luggage for airport security?
Since passenger pile-ups began in March, airport bosses have also been pleading with passengers who may not have flown for a long time to refamiliarise themselves with security rules.
Manchester Airport in particular has been lambasted for its strict security scanning regulations as queues of passengers piled up.
European airport regulations state that passengers must ensure all liquids, gels and pastes in their hand luggage are under 100ml and are packaged into one clear resealable bag to go through the airport security scanners.
Pockets also need to be emptied and large electricals should be taken out of hand luggage and put into a tray.
Some airports also insist on passengers removing belts and boots, so where possible it is worth packing these in hold luggage rather than wearing them to fly.
“Rejected bags and trays can add, on average, an additional 12 minutes to a person’s security process, which when multiplied by the thousands of passengers flying through soon adds up to lengthy delays that can easily be avoided,” said Costigan.
If you want to avoid holding up the queue, it’s best to ensure you have complied with all of these requirements before you stood putting your items in the tray at security.
When is the busiest time to fly from an airport?
It is a misconception that flying early is a good way to dodge the worst of the airport queues.
In fact, the biggest queues at Manchester, Birmingham and Leeds Bradford airports are being reported in the early hours – between around 4 am and 7 am.
A spokesperson for Yorkshire’s Leeds Bradford Airport speaking to Leeds Live said that the longest security queues were being experienced during peak travel times, from 4 am to 8 am and 1 pm to 4 pm.
Typically, airports also experience increased passenger traffic between Friday and Monday. This is due to weekend leisure trips and commuting patterns.
So if you’re looking to book a flight sometime soon, travelling at lunchtime during the week could be your best bet.
Should I cancel my flight?
The UK’s Travel Association (ABTA) has advised people not to cancel their flights despite the ongoing chaos at airports.
“While it is really disappointing if you do experience a delay or cancellation, you do have rights, including for a replacement flight or refund, plus significant compensation in most cases when flights are cancelled less than 14 days before departure,” a spokesperson says.
If you do cancel or postpone your trip, check the terms and conditions of your booking to make sure you won’t incur any costs.
Despite rail strikes in the UK, looking into alternative ways to travel could be an option if you are yet to book your flights. Overall, trains have been less severely impacted by the travel disruption and connections across Europe are rapidly improving.
Introducing Emirates A380 premium economy
One of the most eagerly awaited announcements from major airline Emirates was the news of its premium economy offering.
The airline’s final six Airbus A380 aircraft were all delivered with the new class of seating and the Gulf carrier has detailed plans to retrofit 67 A380s and 53 Boeing 777s. In total, Dubai-based Emirates will therefore have 126 aircraft with premium economy.
The last-ever A380 to be produced, delivered in December 2021 to Emirates and with registration A6-EVS, was on display at the Berlin ILA Airshow in Germany. The A380 is a rare visitor to the German capital, because Emirates does not have regular landing rights for Berlin under the traffic agreement between Germany and the UAE.
“It’s sad to know that an amazing aircraft will stop, but we will still have at least 15 years of flying them,” Captain Abdulrahman told AeroTime on board the aircraft on June 22, 2022. “It’s amazing to fly. You feel really proud to be flying it!”
It’s clear the pilots enjoy their seats up front, but what can passengers expect? AeroTime was invited inside for a look at the new premium economy cabin and the rest of the features on board the Emirates A380, including the famous onboard showers.
A step to business class?
The A380 has an updated interior color scheme in cream and gold, bringing it into line with the carrier’s latest 777.
The premium economy section can be found at the front of the lower deck, just behind the flight deck, handy for those wishing to make a swift exit from the aircraft.
The superjumbo sports 56 premium economy seats, manufactured by Recaro, in a 2-4-2 configuration. Emirates says the leather seats offer pitch of up to 40 inches, are 19.5 inches wide, and recline 8 inches. The 8-inch recline is definitely more pronounced than in economy and you’d probably want to recline yourself should the person in front of you do so.
Captain Abdulrahman told AeroTime his top tip was to get a seat behind the bulkhead or in the very first row in order to maximize leg space even further. Once you have stretched out, you can of course find a movie to watch on the 13.3-inch screen, larger than those available in economy.
Emirates also had a full mock-up of the food offering to show what passengers can expect when they fly, including salads, chicken, vegetables and cheese and crackers served on chinaware. Sadly, it was not for consumption, so AeroTime cannot comment on the quality!
As Captain Abdulrahman put it, the premium economy cabin represents a good step from economy to business. Emirates representatives at the airshow proudly said some visitors had queried whether the premium economy was in fact business class.
The Emirates premium economy will be available on the final six A380s to be delivered on routes between Dubai and Paris Charles de Gaulle, London Heathrow and Sydney from August 1, 2022 with Christchurch, New Zealand to follow from December.
The tour of the A380 of course included the onboard bar, a look at business and first class and a trip down the cruiseliner-style staircase at the front of the aircraft.
But what about those first-class showers? Sadly, at around 7,000 euros for a ticket, this AeroTime reporter will not be flying first-class from Germany to Dubai any time soon. But I was allowed in, and the onboard shower is probably bigger than the showers many have at home.
However, if you enjoy a long shower, you will have to compromise. Passengers are allowed five minutes of water, with 25 minutes in the onboard “spa” in total, depending on how busy the cabin is.
JetBlue to offer helicopter airport transfer service in NYC
JetBlue announced it would add new benefits to the airline’s award-winning TrueBlue loyalty program.
One of the additions is Blade, a helicopter airport transfer service in New York City that connects Manhattan, John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) in as little as five minutes.
Starting on July 1, Mosaic members will receive 25 percent off their first Blade Airport trip and TrueBlue members will receive 10 percent off their first trip when connecting to or from JetBlue flights. Mosaic+ members will receive credits that are redeemable for complimentary seats.
“We know the JetBlue journey starts long before our customers step aboard one of our flights, which is why we are making more of the entire travel experience even easier and even more rewarding,” JetBlue vice president Chris Buckner said. “This partnership will help us further evolve and enhance our TrueBlue program so our most loyal customers can enjoy more perks more often.”
JetBlue has become the only airline in the United States to offer an airport transfer partnership of this kind and will provide TrueBlue members access to Blade through 2023.
The newly announced partnership builds on previously announced 2022 enhancements to the TrueBlue program, including a 100 percent rebate on Even More Space points redemptions, complimentary unlimited upgrades on Heathrow Express and more.
Earlier this week, JetBlue announced several milestones in the airline’s transatlantic growth and growing low-fare London service. The carrier received permanent slots at Heathrow Airport for flights starting October 29, which allows JetBlue to retain its presence at the U.K.’s busiest airport as it continues to grow its base of transatlantic travelers.
At Gatwick Airport, the carrier expanded its industry-leading transatlantic service with a third daily flight between New York City and London, connecting John F. Kennedy International Airport and Gatwick, starting on October 29.