New Zealand's Tripling of Tourist Entry Fees Sparks Controversy

 

What amazing and insane news coming from New Zealand this week. The country has suddenly announced a near tripling of its International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) from NZ$35 (about £17 or $22 USD) to NZ$100 (approximately £49 or $62 USD), effective from October 1, 2024. 

The decision has of course stirred significant controversy within the tourism industry, which fears that the increased fees could deter visitors, especially as the sector is still recovering from the severe impacts of COVID-19 lockdowns and border closures. 

The Truth Behind Online Holiday Reviews: Are They a Scam?

Picture this – you're excitedly browsing holiday destinations and accommodations for your next vacation. You come across some glowing online reviews that make a particular place seem like paradise on Earth. 

Tempting, right? Is this the spot where you'll create your most cherished travel memories? Or is it possible that there's a more sinister reality to these rave reviews? 

In this blog post, we're going to delve into the world of online holiday reviews to determine if they are trustworthy, or should be approached with caution. Whether you're a seasoned traveller, or planning your first big trip – read on to make better-informed decisions about your upcoming escapades.

Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice 2014 Top Destination goes to ... Istanbul, Turkey

Users of the Tripadvisor website, which provides traveller reviews of all things travel related, have voted Istanbul in Turkey as their favourite holiday destination of 2014.

New Holiday Destination: Austin, Texas, USA

Thanks to British Airways now flying to Austin five times a week from Heathrow, this Texan city is becoming increasingly popular as a holiday destination.   In 2015, the number of people choosing to visit Austin may take off even more due to a new star-studded film from writer and director Terrence Malick.

Using Bitcoin for Travel

With the announcement that travel company Expedia are accepting Bitcoin payments for hotel bookings from their US customers, some people have speculated that travel may be the perfect application for Bitcoins.

To Tip or Not to Tip

The customs for tipping vary greatly around the world.  The amount to tip, the frequency to tip and who to tip can change completely depending on where you are.

Travel Insurance: When Do You Need It Really?

If you want to have affordable medical care options while abroad, then that’s when you really need travel insurance.  Without it, you might find yourself forking out thousands of pounds out-of-pocket.

Car Hire Costs ‘Double’ In The Summer

Car hire mark-ups during the summer season can easily break a family’s holiday budget. In Europe and, less so, in the United States, these prices nearly double in the summer between June and August, increasing up to 176 percent, according to the UK website, Which?.

Qatar Airways Launches The First All-Business Class Flights From Heathrow

Qatar Airways will launch the first premium all-business class service from London’s Heathrow airport to its Doha hub, starting on May 15.

World Travel Awards

Established in 1993 to recognize, reward and celebrate exceptional services in various sectors of the tourism industry, the World Travel Awards is a globally recognized brand, marking a high standard of quality to which all tourist service brands aspire.