Qantas has told the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) the future of its sole route between Australia and China will be in jeopardy if an extension of its alliance with China Eastern is not extended by 18 months.

Major tourist cities around the world could expect less overseas visitors in the ‘new normal’ post-COVID environment as travellers move beyond popular hubs to the serenity of rural countrysides, says Mary Rossi Travel Managing Director, Claudia Rossi Hudson.

It’s out of reach for Australian travellers, but Rocco Forte’s hotel in Sicily, Verdura Resort, may be onto something that could be adopted locally.

Seabourn has cancelled upcoming voyages on three of its five cruise ships as a part of the latest halt in operations, fuelled by the coronavirus pandemic.

MSC Grandiosa and MSC Magnifica are set to recommence operations in the Mediterranean on 16 and 29 August 2020 respectively, offering citizens of Schengen countries the opportunity to discover five destinations during a seven-night voyage.

Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has announced its ocean-going cruise line members have agreed to voluntarily suspend US cruise operations for the third time, until at least 31 October 2020.

First and business class guests of Etihad Airways will now be issued with a snood-style face mask for their journey as part of the airline’s new health and hygiene program.

The enormous toll of COVID-19 on international tourism has now become clear, with World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) data showing the cost up to May was already three times that of the 2009 Global Economic Crisis.

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission has applauded a decision by Etihad Airways to offer refunds to consumers who bought tickets with the airline in Australia which were subsequently cancelled due to the pandemic.

Four Seasons Resort Seychelles at Desroches Island is now accepting reservations exclusively for its Presidential Villa and multi-bedroom Private Retreats for stays from 1 October 2020.

Crystal has elevated its peace of mind focused booking policy, offering a new ‘No Money Down, 90-day Deposit Window’ for a limited time.

Silversea Cruises has broadened its Cruise with Confidence program to all voyages departing prior to 30 April 2021. The initiative aims to instil confidence for travellers to make future cruise plans with peace of mind.