Issue 64: Friday, 29 November 2019
Don’t get slugged for a US visa
While we are discussing Traveller warnings – don’t get scammed when you apply for a visa to visit the US. We are required to apply for an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) before travelling. The official cost is $US14 – but fake sites can charge hundreds and steal your bank details. The official site is here
Special treks to Everest
Adventure travel specialist, World Expeditions is launching four special treks in the Everest region. On 21 November 2020 – the treks will converge in the region’s most important spiritual centre in Thyangboche for a banquet dinner to be attended by Australian mountaineering legend, Tim Macartney-Snape and a special mystery guest. More details here
Save 35% at new Sydney hotel
Sydney’s newest CBD hotel, the Vibe Hotel Darling Harbour, opened on October 15 and to celebrate enjoy a 20% saving off fully flexible room rates. On historic Sussex Street, the new hotel features an elegant rooftop terrace bar and restaurant. If you hurry you can even save 35% during TFE’s Summer Sale that finishes on December 3. Details here
Singapore’s vintage Vespa sidecar tour
I have done it often enough via trishaw, but the latest way to explore what is left of old Singapore is via Vespa Power. Breeze down quaint alleyways and enjoy face to face encounters with real locals. Sidecars nuke a Trishaw ride any day by the way as they move faster, covering more sights in the same time says owner Simon Wong. More details here
Save up to 25% on Antarctica cruises
Discover the vast beauty of Antarctica, where mighty glaciers calve into the ocean, and penguins, seals and whales frolic. Explore the wild natural wonders of the Chilean fjords and the Falklands. Sail on board Hurtigruten’s new hybrid powered expedition cruise ships, MS Roald Amundsen and MS Fridtjof Nansen. More details, https://www.antarctica-cruising.com/special-offers.htm
Europe with Etihad from $1170
How about going to Europe via Abu Dhabi? Etihad is on sale and whether you’re looking for a romantic break in Paris, city escape in London or family fun in Athens, the airline has you covered. London prices return for instance start from $1170. You have to hurry though. The sale ends on December 6. Check the free stopover deal as well. See here
Compare Cathay or Singapore Airlines
Cathay is also doing deals – although they end on December 2. The popular carrier has started Cyber Monday early. Take off to Tokyo, London, New York and other popular destinations with exclusive online fares. Singapore Airlines says there is still time to secure limited discounted seats for travel up to November 2020 but you have to book by Wednesday December 4. Details here and here
Or, fly to LA from $899 return
To celebrate 10 years of Virgin Australia and Delta Air Lines’ trans-pacific partnership, special Thanksgiving sale fares to the US have been released – plus, new benefits for Velocity members who can for instance now upgrade to Premium Economy or Business using Velocity Points when selecting eligible Delta Air Lines flights. Deals from Sydney include LA return from $899. Details here
Super special for Vietnam Airlines FF members
Vietnam Airlines is offering travellers who recently joined its Frequent Flyer program Lotusmiles 50% off tickets purchased with special promotion codes. Joining is free. Don’t forget you have to use the promo codes and restrictions apply. More details, www.vietnamairlines.com
Get a free night in Hong Kong
Times are tough for the travel industry in Hong Kong right now for obvious reasons despite the fact that most of the problems occur at weekends. Regal Hotels has released a deal available from now until 31 Dec 2019. Book direct and input the promotional rate code – S3P2 for three consecutive nights of designated room types at Regal Hotels or iclub Hotels in Hong Kong and get the third night “FREE” plus exclusive privileges. More details here
