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Asian airlines turn to ‘flights to nowhere’ to get travellers back in the skies

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SYDNEY (Reuters) – Qantas Airways Ltd QAN.AX said on Thursday it would operate a seven-hour scenic flight over Australia next month, adding to a growing trend in Asia of “flights to nowhere” that take off and land at the same airport.

Tough border restrictions to keep the coronavirus under control have led to a 97.5% plunge in international travel in the region, according to the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines.

Many frequent flyers miss getting on planes and airlines including Taiwan’s EVA Airways Corp 2618.TW and Japan’s ANA Holdings Inc 9202.T, desperate for revenue and to keep their pilots’ licences current, have offered special sightseeing flights.

EVA used one of its iconic Hello Kitty livery planes for a special father’s day flight last month, while ANA used an Airbus SE AIR.PA A380 that usually flies to Honolulu for a 90-minute flight with a Hawaiian experience on board.

Tickets costing around $228 for a Tigerair Taiwan flight from Taipei that will circle over South Korea’s Jeju Island reportedly sold out in four minutes. The price includes a one-year voucher for round-trip tickets from Taiwan to Korea, which can be used after COVID-19 travel bans are lifted.

Singapore Airlines Ltd SIAL.SI is also considering scenic flights, but no decision has been made, a spokesman said.

Qantas said it would use a Boeing Co BA.N 787 typically used for long-haul international flights for the flight from Sydney that will fly at low levels over Uluru, the Great Barrier Reef and Sydney Harbour before landing back in Sydney. Tickets will cost between A$787 and A$3,787 ($575 and $2,765) depending on the seating class.

Just six months ago, it would have been unimaginable that Australians would be unable to hop on a plane and travel out of the country or even out of their own state due to border controls and quarantine requirements, Chief Executive Alan Joyce said.

“While we may not be able to take you overseas right now, we can certainly provide inspiration for future trips to some of Australia’s most beautiful destinations,” he said in a statement.

The flight will be carbon offset and operate on a cost-neutral basis, Qantas said, amid some concerns being raised on social media over the environmental impact of such flights.

The concept of scenic flights is not new. Antarctica Flights has chartered Qantas jets for scenic flights over Antarctica for 26 years. An Air New Zealand Ltd AIR.NZ sightseeing flight over Antarctica in 1979 crashed into Mount Erebus, killing all 257 people on board.

Reporting and photo: Reuters

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Exclusive offers and curated experiences at Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts Maldives

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Imagine a tiny island nestled in the heart of the Indian Ocean, where warm sand meets gently lapping waves, creating the perfect setting for unforgettable moments. Whether celebrating love or finding time to reconnect, this idyllic dream can become a reality with a limited-time offer at Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts in the Maldives. Guests can enjoy discounts of up to 75% and partake in curated experiences designed to make every moment as memorable as the surroundings.

A recent guest at Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives recounted his enchanting experience on the Platinum Island. He described being dropped off at a secluded sandbank in the middle of the vast ocean—just the waves, the sky, and the two of them. As he knelt and opened the ring box, the look on his partner’s face made the moment truly unforgettable. Her “yes” became the pinnacle of their journey, leaving him feeling like the luckiest person alive.

Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts specialises in crafting dream proposals with impeccable attention to detail. From a pathway illuminated by flickering candles to an elegantly set table under the open sky, every aspect is meticulously arranged. Fresh floral decorations and chilled sparkling wine are thoughtfully included, ensuring a magical experience for those looking to make a life-changing declaration.

For couples not planning a proposal, the resorts offer numerous ways to elevate romantic getaways. Guests can indulge in a decadent four-course lobster dinner paired with sparkling wine or enjoy a private beach BBQ night, where freshly grilled seafood and premium meats are prepared to perfection.

For travellers seeking a blend of relaxation and adventure, the Maldives provides an unparalleled playground. Diving enthusiasts can explore the vibrant house reef at Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon, recognised by Lonely Planet as one of the world’s top diving destinations. Meanwhile, adrenaline seekers can enjoy activities such as jet skiing, wakeboarding, or surfing at the iconic Pasta Point near Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives. Those preferring a slower pace can opt for a sunset dolphin-watching cruise or experience the thrill of big-game fishing in the Indian Ocean. One notable catch involved a majestic sailfish, nearly 1.5 meters in length, which left both the guest and the resort’s expert fishing guide in awe.

With January to March offering the Maldives’ finest weather and picturesque days, this is the perfect time to turn dreams into reality. The offer is available for bookings made between January 17 and February 2, 2025, for stays from January 17 to March 31, 2025. Guests can unlock up to 75% off their stay and discover the Maldives just as they have always envisioned it.

Whether it’s about reconnecting, celebrating milestones, or indulging in the beauty of paradise, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts provides the perfect canvas for extraordinary memories.

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Family fun meets Premier League coaching: Kuramathi and Campioni experience

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Families seeking the ultimate summer escape in 2025 will find the perfect destination with Kuramathi and Campioni. These two exceptional partners offer a holiday experience where children can combine their love for football with the thrill of training alongside former Premier League players and UEFA coaches at breathtaking resorts. The exclusive Campioni football training camps cater to children aged 4-15 years, running across two weeks with three football legends. Liverpool and England star John Barnes MBE, accompanied by a UEFA coach, will lead sessions from July 28th to August 1st. Meanwhile, England icons Harry Redknapp and Stuart Pearce MBE will join from August 4th to August 8th, presenting an unparalleled opportunity for budding young footballers.

Campioni’s ethos, “Train Like A Pro,” offers a unique chance for children to be coached for two hours daily by some of English football’s most celebrated figures. These interactive and engaging sessions focus on fundamental skills while emphasising teamwork, strategy, and sportsmanship. With personalised guidance provided throughout, participants gain invaluable insights from the experts and create unforgettable memories.

While children hone their skills on the pitch, parents are free to unwind in a variety of ways. They can relax on the beach, explore the island, work out in the gym, visit the spa, or simply enjoy the vibrant energy of the training sessions from the sidelines.

The Campioni experience extends beyond football. Families are invited to participate in additional activities, such as welcome drinks at the start of the week, a mid-week parents’ game featuring the football legends, and an end-of-week medal and certificate presentation. These events ensure everyone in the family enjoys a dynamic and engaging holiday.

Kuramathi, a renowned Maldivian resort, serves as the ideal backdrop for this unique experience. Famous for its winding white sandbank and tropical jungle spanning the 1.8km island, the resort features 12 room categories, 12 restaurants, 6 bars, evening entertainment, and an array of facilities. Options range from one-bedroom Beach Villas and Two-Bedroom Beach Houses to overwater villas perched above the island’s turquoise lagoon, making it a perfect choice for families.

Off the field, Kuramathi’s complimentary Bageecha Kids’ Club caters to children aged 3-12 years with indoor and outdoor play areas, arts and crafts, splash pads, and a large swimming pool. Activities for older children include badminton, football, ping pong, baseball, and basketball. For couples seeking a romantic evening, extended kids’ club hours are available at an additional charge, alongside 24-hour babysitting for younger children.

The resort also offers unique environmental activities, such as eco-centre presentations, hermit crab trails, tree planting, and visits to hydroponics gardens, encouraging younger guests to learn about sustainable practices.

For adventurous families, Kuramathi provides a fully equipped dive school with multilingual instructors who guide participants through PADI and SSI courses, including options for children as young as eight. Guests can also explore the ocean through snorkelling safaris, turtle discovery trips, dolphin excursions, and semi-submarine tours. Water sports such as windsurfing, dinghy sailing, and catamaran lessons are available for children aged 12 and above.

While children are occupied, parents can relax at the spa or enjoy evening cocktails at the Champagne Loft or pool bars. Dining options include international cuisine at the buffet restaurant and specialty venues like The Reef, La Belle Vie, and Siam Garden. Nightlife on the island is vibrant, with live music, beachside movie nights, DJ performances, and more.

Kuramathi and Campioni promise a summer holiday filled with excitement, learning, and relaxation, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

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Sun Siyam Resorts honoured at Target Taste Awards 2024

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Sun Siyam Resorts has announced its receipt of the prestigious 2024 Target Taste Award for ‘Overseas Island Hotel Group.’ The accolade was presented during the ‘Target Taste’ awards ceremony in December 2024, held in Beijing. This event celebrated innovation and excellence within the luxury lifestyle industry.

The 2024 awards, themed ‘Revolutionise and Innovate,’ gathered leading brands and visionaries to highlight advancements in high-end hospitality, design, travel, and culinary arts. Sun Siyam Resorts was honoured for its commitment to redefining island luxury through exceptional guest experiences, sustainable practices, and innovative offerings.

Ashley Zhang, Regional Marketing & Communications Manager for China, accepted the award on behalf of the company, marking a significant milestone for the group.

Target Taste, a prominent Chinese luxury lifestyle magazine established in 2013, has consistently recognised industry pioneers. Its awards serve as a hallmark of innovation, elegance, and excellence in the luxury sector.

Claudia Klingbeil, Group Director of PR & Communications at Sun Siyam Resorts, stated: “This recognition is deeply meaningful to all of us at Sun Siyam Resorts. It reflects the passion, dedication, and heart that our team pours into creating memorable experiences for our guests, and this recognition fuels our commitment to constantly evolve and innovate.”

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