British Airways Crew Strike Not Likely on Royal Wedding

According to reports, the union that represents the British Airways cabin crew is unlikely to opt for industrial action during the royal wedding if the ballot mandate swings in the favour of a strike.

The prospect of the royal wedding getting disrupted seemed real when previously Len McCluskey, Unite’s general secretary, refused to rule out the royal wedding as a possible strike period. However, now it is believed that Unite wants to steer clear of any controversies during a major public event.

BA and its cabin crew have been engaged in an ongoing feud for more than one year now. The feud has resulted in 22 strikes and a loss of nearly £150 million to the renowned national airline. The strikes had also proved to be a pain in the neck for the travellers who had to negotiate grounded flights as well as chaotic airport scenes.

Unite is yet to take a strike ballot that will decide the course of the action for the union. The union’s earlier ballot that voted in favour of a strike was termed ‘illegal’ by British Airways and was scrapped by the union after the airline warned of dismissals for those taking part.

In an interview given to the BBC this month, McCluskey indicated that the crew members are hesitant to go on a strike during the royal wedding that is slated for the 29th of April. "It is a bank holiday. I doubt whether many of our members will want to take strike action," McCluskey was quoted. "But, if they do, then it is because they have reached a particular point in their positions at work where they feel they have got no alternative." When asked if he would lend support to the strike action on the royal wedding weekend, he replied: "Absolutely".

However, it has to be said that Mr. McCluskey is not likely to give a go ahead for a strike during the royal wedding. The period during Easter and the wedding offers ample time for people to plan out their holidays. Many have even booked tickets on flights to take advantage of the elongated weekends. Many flights are running booked and tickets on cheap flights surely would not be easily available for those who prefer last minute travel plans and ticket hunt.

Meanwhile, BA has urged the union to consider the peace deals that was negotiated last year but was rejected by the union’s branches. "There have been enough ballots. It is time for Unite to return to the deal we negotiated, which leaves our existing Heathrow crew the best rewarded in the UK industry, and to put this dispute behind us," A BA spokesman was quoted as stating by different online sources.

Some Fabulous Temples to Explore in Chennai

Chennai, the capital city of the South Indian state of Tamil Nadu, is blessed with some of the most important temples in Indian history, with a few being almost a millennium old. Besides temples, Chennai also offers a world of other captivating sights, smells, and tastes for the visitor. No wonder, scores of people buy their Chennai tickets right at the time of booking their cheap flights to India. Here is a glimpse into just five of the famous temples in the destination.

Ashtalakshmi Temple

The Ashtalakshmi Temple embodies eight different forms of Lakshmi, the Hindu goddess of wealth and prosperity. The temple is a fusion of contemporary and Dravidian architectural elements and showcases the octal manifestations of Lakshmi such as Dhairya and Dhaanya Lakshmi, AdhiLakshmi, MahaLakshmi, MahaVishnu, SantaanaLakshmi, GajaLakshmi and VijayaLakshmi, and Dhanalakshmi at different levels. Other than Lakshmi, the temple also has shrines for other Hindu gods like Sri Ganesh and Sri Hanuman. Ashtalakshmi Temple is located in the serene Elliot’s Beach.

The Kalikambal Temple

The Kalikambal Temple is located Chennai’s George Town area and is noted as much for its architectural brilliance as for its link with the famous Maratha king of India, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. In terms of architecture, the temple is well known for the Sri Chakra Vimamaanam or Kinnitter, which means king’s chariot. Metal cymbals line this exquisitely crafted chariot. The presiding deities are those of Lord Kamateshwar and Goddess Kalikambal. The Kalikambal Temple has also become an endearing place as it hosts numerous festivals throughout the year and has become one of the factors prompting visitors to book flights to Chennai. Some of most colourful festivals are the ten day Brahmotsavam, Vasant Navaratri, Margazhi, and Maasi Makam.

Kundrathur Temple

Anyone planning to catch flights to India for a Chennai trip should definitely check out the Kundrathur Temple. The temple is a brilliant specimen of Murugan temple architecture and in contrast to usual practice, the presiding deity has been placed in a North facing direction. The deity is that of Lord Subramaniam, a form of the destroyer God Shiva. The Kundrathur Temple dates back to the reign of the famed Chola King, Kulothunga Chola-II, and according to folklore, the lord had halted on the Kundrathur hills on the way from Tiruporur to Truttanigai. An interesting attribute of the temple is the placement of the idols. Interestingly, despite the presence of the two separate female deities of Valli and Deivanai, along with the deity of Lord Subramaniam, the lord can not be seen with both the goddesses at the same point of time.

Mangadu Kamakshi Temple

The Lordess Kamakshi, a form of the Goddess Parvati is worshipped at the Mangadu Kamakshi temple. According to mythological beliefs, the Goddess Kamakshi performed penance in a sacred fire called Panch-Agni at the site of the temple. The right leg of the idol is folded, while the left rests on Agni. The goddess symbolises Shakti or female power, the creator of the world. Local belief has it that unwedded girls, who worship the goddess with a pure heart, get blessed with marriage. Some of the other deities at the temple are Vinaygar, Sooryan, and Nava Kannigal and Fridays are amongst the most auspicious days for visiting. The temple also has the rare Sri Chakra.

Tyagarajar Temple

The Tyagarajar Temple is supposed to be at least 1300 years old, which was roughly around the time of the Pallava dynasty. In fact, the temple bears inscriptions of the ancient Pallavas. The Tyagarajar Temple also earned the patronage of several Chola kings and has its fair shares of colourful claims. For instance, the temple is the twentieth of the thirty two Tevara Stalams of South India’s Tondai Region. The principal deity worshipped here is Shiva, in the form of Adipureeswar and Tyagarajar.

Travellers offered advice ahead of World Cup

Brits planning to take flights to India for the forthcoming Cricket World Cup are being offered travel advice

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) and the England and Wales Cricket Board have joined forces to help ensure that travellers heading to India, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka for the sporting event are well-informed.

Starting on February 19th, the tournament is set to prove popular with many cricket fans but the FCO is advising travellers to make sure they are up-to-date with vaccinations and have taken the correct malaria tablets before jetting off.

For more information visit here

British Airways Strike Threat – Union to Hold Fresh Strike Ballot

British Airways crew have scrapped plans for immediate strike action following a legal challenge to the validity of the union members’ ballot that took place in January. The development lends another twist to an already elongated story of clash between staff and British Airways over conditions, pay and the removal of staff perks.

Unite, which represents the cabin crew of the UK’s national airline, conducted ballot for industrial action in the month of January. BA, however, succeeded in persuading the Electoral Reform Society, an independent body that scrutinises such ballots, that there were sufficient issues with the ballot.

Terming the ballot as ‘illegal’, British Airways warned its staff to be ready to face dire consequences if they become part of any such ‘illegal’ strike.

Len McCluskey, Unite's new general secretary, was quoted by online resources as stating, "Unite therefore cannot call industrial action based on this ballot, since such a move would expose our members to sanctions by a bullying employer."

McCluskey also announced his plans of organising fresh ballot for strike action. He also alleged that the airline is not in interested in peace talks and is instead trying to outmuscle crew members using a legal battle.

BA has however refuted the charges. BA’s spokesman was quoted as stating, "Only Unite wants to continue this dispute. We shook hands on a deal last October but Unite reneged on it. The union does not have the support of the majority of our crew and it has lost 2,500 crew members since the dispute began."

Whatever maybe the case, one thing is certain that any fresh strike is surely going to be a cause of worry for all those travellers who have booked flight tickets early and have been lucky enough to get cheap tickets on flights. BA crew strikes in the past have created havoc at various London airports with number of flights getting grounded or delayed.

Strike Fear on Royal Wedding
As Unite gets ready to announce fresh ballot date, BA looks to place legal hurdles on its way in order to prevent its crew from going on a strike during the royal wedding.

The period of royal wedding and Easter is proving to be a peak season for the airline as number of holiday makers have planned to travel during the time. Many travellers have booked cheap tickets on flights well in advance.

India benefits from approaching World Cup

The forthcoming cricket World Cup has helped to boost tourism to India, with many hotels reporting full occupancy.


PTI reports that tour packages for the matches are now sold out, meaning that many cricket fans will have to arrange their own flights to India as well as tickets and accommodation if they wish to see some of the action.

The International Cricket Council's official tour provider confirmed that not all of the later games have yet sold out but fans will need to move quickly.

For more information visit here

Tips for Travellers taking a Flight to Australia

Australia is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world and every year thousands of visitors travel to the destination from all corners of the world. Here are some tips, which can prove pretty convenient for a trip to Australia.

Flight Tips

• Qantas is one of the most popular airlines for flights to Australia. Qantas, owing to its partnership with many other airlines often emerges as a cheap travel choice. Passengers get to buy tickets with some partner airline for the initial leg and complete the remaining journey with Qantas or some domestic airline.

• The months from September to November are best for finding cheap flights to Australia as this is the off season time in terms of tourism.

• A cheap flight to Australia is more likely to be available in the Sydney and Melbourne sector as these two cities are covered by the majority of the airlines operating cheap return flights to Australia.

Beach Tips

• Invisible undertows or rips at the Ocean beaches cause drowning fatalities every year. Rips can be identified by features like foams going beyond the break zone, brownish or sandy coloured waters, and rippled stretches amidst calm surrounding waters.

• Beach goers should also take note of the fact that the area between the red and yellow flags is safe for swimming. If there are no flags around, it means the beach is not patrolled. However, ceaseless attempts are made to patrol beaches as much as possible so that freak accidents don’t spoil Australia’s legendary reputation for tourism.

Climate Tips on Melbourne, Perth, and Sydney

• It is said that Melbourne has four seasons in one day, especially during early Spring and late Autumn. October is supposedly the wettest month and a good time for buying cheap tickets to Melbourne.

• Perth, with its location in one of the world’s five Mediterranean climate zones, is blessed with a sunny year round climate. While Perth summers are long, winters are brief and mild.

• Those looking for cheap deals to Sydney, should book with the winter months in mind. The damp and chilly winters bring down ticket prices. Summers are heavenly and usually the maximum temperature is about 35 °C.

Tips on Social Life

• Australians are very informal and may promptly give a nickname to someone. However, it is disrespectful of strangers to start imitating them or taking liberties.

• Australians have a good sense of humour and may come across as self deprecating. It would be naïve of visitors to take such comments seriously.

• Australians try to downplay achievements and successes. They also expect the same and do not trust people who brag. In fact, they admire genuine people.
  

Maldives – The Best Place for Scuba Diving

Maldives is a dream holiday destination with numerous top class attractions. With its charming sandy beaches and pristine lagoons, Maldives is known to drown many a travellers in its incredible beauty! Lofty palm trees lining the beaches, vibrant coral reefs adorning the clear lagoons along with most astonishing resorts complete the wonderful picture!

Each Maldivian island is a holiday resort in itself and is dedicated to make your holidays in Maldives something spectacular and memorable! It is a little wonder that flights to Maldives are hugely popular among leisure travellers around the world, and cheap flights to Maldives are something that cause almost frenzy among holiday makers!

Every Maldivian island is blessed with a shallow and large lagoon and with few of them bestowed with a house reef that guards the islands from the enormous waves originating from the ocean. The reefs make water around the islands a natural swimming pool with varied depths making it appropriate for all kinds and levels of swimmers. The shallow waters are perfect for families with kids to enjoy. However the reefs are much more than swimming heavens, they are host to a various species of live corals and tropical fishes!

Maldives’s Diving Scene
Whether you wish to snorkel around or hope to catch a closer look at the marine life by underwater diving, the Maldivian resorts will provide you with all facilities and equipment. If you fancy yourself as a bit of daredevil or an adventurer, the opportunities are just a jump away from your resorts! Delve into the waters to experience the horizon of the sea, and explore the beauty of a variety of corals and the overwhelming fauna that festoon the reef!

Many of the island nation’s diving sites can be explored from the resorts themselves or through diving safari trips. Most of the diving sites in the country are more likely to be found in the in the shallower reefs around the islands. However, some best diving spots are to be found in the crowd of channels that are created by the Maldives' exceptional ecological formations.

What Makes Maldives Probably the Best Diving Paradise in the World?
Many believe that Maldives is perhaps the best diving spot around the world, and it really will be something to contradict this belief! The mesmerising underwater life is the biggest reason tickets on cheap flights to Maldives sell like hot cakes. The reefs are brimming with an array of species of tropical fish – perhaps more than anywhere else found in the world. Each and every Maldivian resort is fully equipped to let you play out your scuba diving fantasies. Resorts feature dining centres along with regular dive excursion schedules. Diving centres offer courses ranging from fun diving to open-water training to professional diving. Even night time diving can be arranged for travellers under the guidance of expert diving instructors.

With scuba diving being the most significant recreational activity undertaken by the tourists visiting Maldives, a host of diving sites have been declared as protected ones. Each of the sites is a top notch diving spot that have the potential of spellbinding even the diving instructors who visit them daily! Grab flights to Maldives and experience the finest of marine life!

Diving Season in Maldives
Maldives is a major scuba diving destination all year round but the period between November to May is considered to be the best time for confirmed live-aboard departures. Travellers who choose to visit outside this period are less likely to land up with a departure date that suits their schedule. However, those looking for cheap airlines to Maldives during the peak season must plan early and book cheap tickets on airlines well in advance.

Handy Information for Travellers Booking Flights to New Zealand

New Zealand, with its world wide reputation as a tourism haven, remains the most popular travel destination for thousands of globe trotters. Like any other world famous tourist destination, New Zealand also has its own set of rules and regulations. Familiarising oneself with the same can save a lot of hassle. Here is some information and tips on the destination.

Entry Policies

• Travellers taking flights to New Zealand need to be aware of the fact that the country has strict immigration laws in place, especially in matters of employment. Anyone seeking employment in the country should carry a visa, which allows this.
  


• British passport holders can enter New Zealand on arrival as visitors for a period of six months without a visa. However, amongst other condition, they also need to have an Immigration Officer’s approval that they are satisfying rules.
  


• Visitors planning to buy their cheap New Zealand tickets should seek detailed immigration information from the New Zealand High Commission in London.
  

Flight Booking Tips

• A good idea for cheap flights to New Zealand is to book tickets for flights departing for Christchurch or Auckland from Heathrow. Quite often, there are higher chances of landing cheap tickets on these itineraries.
  


• Air New Zealand, Cathay Pacific, British Airways, Malaysian Airlines, and Singapore Airlines are some of the favoured airlines for flights to New Zealand.
  


• Although, New Zealand is a year round destination, business gets a little slow during May and June. This is the time, when there are better odds of bagging cheap flights to New Zealand.
  

Homosexuality and Narcotics

Gay and Lesbian travellers taking flights to New Zealand should be mindful of the fact that there are freak incidents of violence against homosexuals. However, New Zealand is not a homophobic country and travellers should only try to make sure that they don’t indulge in outwardly open acts that hurt local sensitivities.

Travellers buying their New Zealand tickets must be mindful of the fact that a jail sentence of 8 to 12 years awaits anyone who imports illegal drugs to the country.

Medical Tips

• The ozone layer over New Zealand is thinner than in other regions as the country lies in southerly position. This results in shorter sunburn times as compared to the UK. Visitors buying tickets with the intention of indulging in outdoor activities during summers should observe all necessary precautions.
  


• Many people buy airline tickets to New Zealand to indulge in adventure sports like white water rafting, water boarding, and bungee jumping. Visitors should ensure that their medical and travel insurance covers such activities. Exclusions should be checked very carefully.
  


• Although, New Zealand is a famed environmentally clean tourism spot, asthmatics should be aware of the fact there are chances of an attack in the country.
  

Etihad and Air New Zealand agree codeshare deal

Holidaymakers taking flights to New Zealand and Australia could benefit from a new codeshare agreement between Etihad Airways and Air New Zealand.


The new partnership means that Etihad will be able to codeshare on Air New Zealand flights to Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, Queenstown and Rotorua.

Air New Zealand will also be able to share services on Etihad flights between Abu Dhabi to Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne in Australia.

Rob Fyfe, Air New Zealand's chief executive officer, explained the codesharing will increase passenger numbers on domestic flights as well as allow expansion into the Middle East market.

For more information visit here

A Sojourn to Explore Rajasthan during Winters!

Indian state of Rajasthan, with its rich heritage displaying in remarkably designed forts, palaces and havelis, carefully manicured gardens, vast deserts, and placid lakes makes for lovely winter getaway in India while the west freezes.

Rajasthan is bordered with the National Capital of Delhi which is the most preferred gateway in the country and is well served by airlines operating flights to India. Although, the state’s key gateway and the capital, Jaipur is well linked with major cities in the country through air, rail and road, most travellers usually take cheap flights to India landing in metros and access Rajasthan from Delhi.

Jaipur
Jaipur, the Pink City with dozens of pink buildings dotting the landscape is one of the most charming places in Rajasthan and part of the globally renowned Golden Triangle Tour. The City is crammed full of astounding monuments such as Amber Fort, Jaigarh Fort, Nahargarh Fort, Jal Mahal, Sheesh Mahal, Sisodia Rani Ka Bagh, Government Central Museum, Albert Hall, and Jantar Mantar. Recreate the ambience of the bygone era of Maharajas by taking an elephant safari. Jaipur is easily accessible from Delhi by road and one can save the cost of airlines’ tickets.

Ranthambore National Park
Big cats like tigers and leopards as well as different species of other mammals, birds, and reptiles are to be found in the Ranthambore National Park. Visitors are taken into the jungle on jeep safaris and many get to catch the magnificent sight of a tiger basking in the soft warmth of the winter sun. History buffs can explore the Ranthambore Fort on the fringes of the forest.

Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary
The Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary serves as the winter home of Siberian cranes and many species of other winged guests. Every winter, the park sees a mass influx of rare species of birds from faraway lands. Full of long stretches of lakes and verdant greenery, the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary makes for a wonderful retreat for a number of bird lovers who book air fares to India to be a part of the tranquil environs of the place.

Jaisalmer
Winter is the perfect season to experience the charm of a camel back desert safari across the vast stretches of the Thar Desert. Those looking for further adventures can also indulge in sand bashing safaris and hot air balloon rides. Another highly popular activity is to explore the colossal Jaisalmer Fort or the Golden Fort.

Jodhpur
Jodhpur, popularly known as the ‘Blue City’, stands on a sandstone hillock’s foothill and remains one of the most popular winter destinations in Rajasthan. Jodhpur is famed for its numerous palaces, forts, lakes, and gardens and the three of the hottest attractions here are the Mehrangarh Fort, Umaid Bhavan Palace and Museum, and Jaswant Thada. Jodhpur’s quaint villages also give rich glimpses into the unique way of life.

Udaipur
Famed as the ‘city of lakes’ and affectionately known as the ‘Venice of the East’, Udaipur is a fabulous tourist attraction in Rajasthan. Of all the lakes, the Swaroop Sagar, Udai Sagar, Fateh Sagar, and Pichola are the most famous ones. Besides, Udaipur is home to a plethora of well laid out temples, gardens, and forts. The city also hosts the finest of Rajasthan’s legendary puppet shows. The forts of Kumbhalgarah and Chittorgarh, Mount Abu, and Ranakpur Jain Temples are other interesting tourist spots easily accessible from Udaipur.

With so much and more, Rajasthan remains one of the most alluring reasons for travellers to look for cheap flights. In winters, the state promises enjoyment worth more than the money spent on air fares. One may find cheap deals on hotels, tour packages and flight tickets by choosing to book with an India expert travel agent. Air tickets booked individually may be expensive than air tickets booked as a package deal including accommodation.

Alliance to create new flights to Australia

A joint alliance between Etihad and Virgin Blue means an increase in flights to Australia from the Middle East.


Australian Authorities have backed the new deal that will allow the two carriers to code-share from this month and will allow non-stop flights to Australia from Abu Dhabi by the end of February.

John Borghetti, Virgin Blue's chief executive and managing director, believes that the alliance will lead to the United Arab Emirates state becoming a major "international hub" and open up travel options for those flying to and from Australia.

For more information visit here

Air India shows good financial results

The Indian carrier revealed it had an operating surplus of Rs 49.48 crore (£6.6 million) in the final month of last year.

Air India has reported strong financial results for December 2010, posting a record cash profit compared with the previous month.

In November, the airline had made a profit of Rs 21.66 crore.

According to Air India, this boost in income can be attributed to a "significant improvement in efficiency parameters" and the take-up of "better yield management strategies".

"With the launch of the new state-of-the-art Passenger Service System later this month, we expect a further boost to our efforts to improve our efficiency parameters," revealed Arvind Jadhav, chairman and managing director of Air India.

For more information visit here

Egypt Crisis - FCO Chartered Flight Gears to Take Off

British Government’s special charter flight arranged by Foreign Office gets ready to take off from the Cairo airport with 180 passengers as Egypt crisis gets murkier and bloodier. Keeping the grim situation in mind, the Foreign Office (FCO) announced that a new flight is also being arranged for British tourists to fly them out later in the week.

FCO spokesperson was quoted by news portals as stating, "The plane will depart from Cairo on Saturday, and will supplement existing commercial services. We will provide further such flights as necessary."

The announcement came after a mob of pro-government supporters attacked protestors in Tahrir Square. FCO also advised British travellers to leave Cairo as soon as possible.

"The situation in Cairo remains unpredictable, and the FCO advises all British nationals to leave the city unless they have a pressing reason to stay," FCO spokesperson was quoted by online resources.

"A large team remains on the ground, including significant specialist reinforcements sent in the course of the last week from London and other British Embassies in the region.

"Staff who are not immediately involved in responding to the crisis or helping British nationals are being temporarily removed in line with our travel advice," spokesperson further added.

The first flight that is slated to depart today from the crisis-stricken country was sent by Foreign Office on Wednesday to ensure that there is enough capacity to allow Britons to leave Egypt without many hassles.

Passengers will be charged £300 per air ticket on the charter, which is more or less the same price as a seat with a commercial airline would cost.

FCO defended its policy of not rolling out cheap tickets on the flight as it does not want to undercut commercial airlines by offering a cheap flight.


Cheap Holiday Deals amidst Egypt Protests

There is also a section of people who plan to take benefit of the current turmoil in Egypt by grabbing some great holiday deals for Sharm El Sheikh. The normal operations at the Sharm El Sheikh International Airport have boosted the holiday makers’ confidence in the claims that the Red Sea’s resort coastline is calm and peaceful.

Reports suggest that Red Sea resorts like Sharm el Sheikh and Hurghada have not been affected by the turbulence seen in Egypt’s main cities.

However, countries like Australia and the United States have advised its citizens against visiting any part of Egypt in the current conditions.

On the other hand British travel firms are rolling out attractive and cheap holiday packages to entice tourists into buying air tickets to such Red Sea resorts. Some travel operators are even offering as much as 50% discount on holiday packages.

Chaos Reigns at Cairo Airport as Britons Struggle to Get Home

Hundreds of Britons were left stranded at the Cairo airport last night (Sunday) as airport operations slumped down with the staff joining the bandwagon against the Egypt’s president. British tourists, heeding the advice of Foreign Office to leave the troubled nation, got a rude shock as they found out that different flights have been cancelled. Around 30,000 Britons are reported to be stranded in Egypt with most of them still at Red Sea resorts.

Holiday makers who ventured out of their hotels to travel to the airport were greeted with scenes of utter chaos and confusion as long meandering queues were found at the airport. The night-time curfew imposed by the authorities added to the woes of the travellers as they were unable to leave the airport and forced to sleep in the departure lounges. With the reports of the Cairo International Airport running out of water and food, the proceedings only got worse for the holiday makers.

The British Government had advised against all non-essential travel to Luxor, Cairo, Alexandria and Suez after the violent protest against Egypt’s president broke out on last Tuesday. UK authorities grounded all UK to Egypt flights and in the process wrecking plans of those who landed up with cheap flights to the popular holiday destinations.

There were also reports of some airlines trying to take advantage of the helplessness of the tourists by increasing costs of air tickets on flights back to the UK. British Airways was among those airlines which were being accused of profiteering by the travellers.

However BA on their part accused third party vendors for inflating tickets costs and maintain there has been no change in their pricing policy. BA’s spokesman stated as quoted by online resources, "Tickets are selling at a normal price, we have made no changes to our fares policy."

BA’s spokesman also added, "We are trying to operate normally, but we have had to amend plane times to comply with the curfew.

"For this reason people should watch our website to get the latest information, especially as the situation is pretty volatile."

UK’s budget airline BMI known for its cheap flights plans to have its flights rolling on Monday. However, they struck a cautious note by stating that flights were subject to delay and cancellations.

Questions were also asked about the Foreign Office's response to the crisis as nations like United States, Turkey and India recently announced that they will have special flights to get their citizens out of the country.

British Foreign Secretary William Hague insisted that he is monitoring the situation and considers the wellbeing of the British citizens as his top most priority. He also announced the government’s decision of sending extra consular staff to the Cairo International Airport.

Two Couplets of Cheap and Luxury Hotels from Mauritius

Many avid travellers buy airline tickets to the island nation of Mauritius at least once in their lifetimes. With a plethora of cheap as well as luxury hotels, the destination is well suited to the needs of both budget travellers and the well heeled. Here are two popular choices for luxury and budget hotels in Mauritius.

Taj Exotica Resort and Spa

The Taj Exotica Resort and Spa is a wonderful place to unwind in after alighting from a long tiring flight to Mauritius. The beachside hotel gives marvellous views of the crystal clear tranquil Tamarin Bay waters. Spanning a humongous area of some 27 acres, the hotel offers amazing accommodation facilities, fine dining, and lots of leisure and recreational facilities. The interiors are a mix of Arabic, African, French Colonial, and Indian design patterns and make for a delightful psychedelic sight. Although, every room is like an oasis of comfort, the Luxury Villas somehow steal the show with facilities like private pool, serene alfresco dining area, open air garden shower, rain shower, flat screen plasma TV equipped with surround sound CD/DVD system, twin vanity, walk in wardrobe, in room safe, and Internet connection. Some of the Luxury Villas are interconnected and also allow an extra bed. The hotel is about a one hour car ride away from the international airport, which serves quite a few cheap flights to Mauritius.

Le Méridien Ile Maurice

The Le Méridien Ile Maurice is yet another wonderful accommodation facility for travellers taking a flight to Mauritius. The different rooms and suites offer clear views of the mighty ocean and mountains. The Nirvana rooms of the hotel have long been a hit with guests. These rooms stand at the edge of the tranquil lagoon and come with a personal terrace and a private infinity pool. The terrace overlooks verdant tropical foliage. Anyone who has taken a cheap flights to Mauritius with some cheap airline but wants to experience luxury in terms of accommodation, should definitely book a room at the Le Méridien Ile Maurice. The hotel recently bagged the ‘Mauritius Leading Hotel 2010’ award at the World Travel Award, which is one of the most celebrated travel industry awards program on the planet.

Coin De Mire Hotel Cap Malheureux

Visitors looking for a cheap hotel in Mauritius would do well to check out the Coin De Mire Hotel Cap Malheureux. This no frills hotel offers good value for money and is a good choice for someone more keen to spend more time sightseeing rather than laze around in some luxury resort. Despite being cheap, the hotel is just moments away from the beach and only about 4 kms from the vibrant Grand Baie town alive with its numerous shops and restaurants. The double storied whitewashed Coin De Mire Hotel Cap Malheureux is covered with bougainvillea flowers and radiates a very inviting atmosphere from a distance. The hotel also has its own pool and the rooms are fairly large. Dark wood tones and rattan furnishings have been used in the rooms.

Le Blason
The Le Blason is another good choice for someone who plans to buy a ticket to Mauritius and stay at some reasonably cheap hotel. Le Blason is pretty close to two stunningly beautiful beaches, namely Blue Bay and Beach Point of Esny. The hotel offers facilities like Internet access, Currency Exchange, Safety deposit, 24 hour hot showers, Car Parking, and Swimming Pool. The use of linen, towels, and luggage room is free of charge. A well stocked library spells delight for the bookworms and the cuisine also leaves nothing to be desired.

FCO Announces a New Charter Flight as Egypt Descends Into Violence

FCO’s special charter carrier is set to take off from the Cairo International Airport amidst growing tension in the country. Meanwhile, FCO announced another flight for its fellow citizens stuck in the country that just witnessed a gruesome attack on anti-government protestors by a mob of pro-government supporters in Tahrir Square.

Foreign Office’s first charter that is slated to depart today is carrying out nearly 180 Britons out of the country. Passengers on the special flight are required to shell out £300 per air ticket, which is approximately the same amount for an air ticket with a commercial airline would cost, a move that has been criticised by many.

FCO defended its decision of not offering cheap tickets on the flight as it does not want to undermine commercial airlines by offering tickets in much a cheap flights.

FCO also advised travellers to get out of Cairo as early as possible as political heat is set to rise in the region.

"The situation in Cairo remains unpredictable, and the FCO advises all British nationals to leave the city unless they have a pressing reason to stay," FCO spokesperson was quoted by online resources.

"A large team remains on the ground, including significant specialist reinforcements sent in the course of the last week from London and other British Embassies in the region.

"Staff who is not immediately involved in responding to the crisis or helping British nationals are being temporarily removed in line with our travel advice," the spokesperson further added.

Flights to Singapore – Book Cheap & Enjoy the Most

Singapore is arguably Asia’s most beautiful island nation that is endowed with mind-numbing attractions and beauty. With its innumerable natural and man made marvels, holidays to Singapore remains one of the of most desirable vacation destinations around the world.

Singapore Attractions
Travellers from all over the world book flights to Singapore to experience the overwhelming beauty and splendid aura of this wonderful place. From world class island resorts to luxuriant parks and natural reserves – Singapore is truly blessed with infinite wonders. The Singapore Flyer, the Merlion, Underwater World on Sentosa, Singapore Science Centre, Jurong Bird Park and Singapore Botanic Gardens are some of the numerous tourist attractions in the island country that enthral holiday makers.

Apart from all the grand attractions, Singapore has a varied cultural heritage that has left many a visitors spellbound. The brilliant blend of Chinese, Indian and Malay cultures ensure that every cultural aficionado who grabs flights to Singapore is utterly and thoroughly mesmerised. The region’s many temples, synagogues and mosques are thriving testaments of Singapore’s splendid culture. On the whole, Singapore is correctly regarded as a great tourist destination with distractions enough to engage people of all ages.

Ways to Find Cheap Flights to Singapore
However, it generally believed that Singapore holidays are only for rich and cheap flights to Singapore are very few and far between. Nothing could be farther from the truth! With number of airlines operating in the region, cheap flights to Singapore are easily and readily available. One can grab wonderful travel deals for Singapore holidays from various travel agents. Travellers just need to follow some tips and suggestions to land up with economical air tickets to Singapore. Check out different discounts and deals, and be a little flexible with your travel plans and you will surely grab some cheap tickets to the destination. Take a look at different steps that can help holiday makers in procuring affordable vacation deals.

Research Well
While looking for cheap deals on flights, it is imperative to research well on the internet. It is best to go for a complete package as it automatically allows you to land up with cheapest flight options. And with it you also get the most affordable options in terms of lodgings and ground transportation. Travellers looking for economical deals are best advised to go for an all-inclusive package offered by a travel agent or company that specialises in Southeast Asian vacations. This will not only save you money, it will also be very convenient for you.

Be Flexible
Flexible travel plans are sure to provide you with some great savings. Travellers who are visiting Singapore to enjoy the tropical climate would like to avoid the wet months of November and December. However, if the prospect of wet holidays does not scare you then you are in for some big time savings as you can grasp some of the most amazing off-season discounts offered by airlines and tour operators. You are sure to save heaps of money if you plan your holidays around the time when you have the cheapest flights available.

Use Fare Comparison Websites
This is the internet age and it is time to get technology savvy for all those who would like book flights without burning holes in their pockets. It is not always necessary that you pay the published fares on flights to Singapore or any destination for that matter. Use different fare comparison websites to stumble upon the best available air fares in the market. This is indeed the best way to get cheapest flight to Singapore. Along with cheap flights, one can also find package deals including hotels, attractions and transportation.

Tips to Consider before booking Flights to Hong Kong

Hong Kong, an erstwhile British colony makes for a pretty cheap destination compared to quite a few other places in the world. Here are some tips for a wrinkle free travel experience in Hong Kong.

Information on Flights to Hong Kong

• Cathay Pacific is the national carrier of Hong Kong.

• Some of the popular airlines operating flights to Hong Kong are KLM, Cathay Pacific, Virgin Atlantic, Emirates, British Airways, and Air New Zealand.

• Usually, cheap flights to Hong Kong are available during March to May. This is the off season time airlines try to lure travellers with cheap fares.

Entry requirements for Hong Kong

Travellers must check entry requirements conditions for Hong Kong with relevant authorities. Foreign and Commonwealth Office’s website is also a good source of travel advice.

• Despite being part of the People’s Republic of China, Hong Kong is a Special Administrative Region and has its own set of immigration controls. Visitors without a visa can stay in Hong Kong for a maximum period of six months.

• British nationals holding a passport, which is valid for at least six months, are usually allowed to stay for a period of six months. However, if the validity of the passport is less than six months, visitors can only extend their stay by a month. This clause is also subject to the validity of the passport. In simple words, before snapping up the ticket on some cheap flight to Hong Kong, ensure that the passport is valid for the entire period of your visit.

• Single parents travelling alone with children need to know that some places require documents certifying parental responsibility before allowing entry. There are even places that don’t allow the children to leave without this proof. The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in London has exhaustive information on this topic.

• A British passport holder travelling to Mainland China through Hong Kong needs to get hold of a Chinese visa before reaching the border. British passport holders can’t get a visa after arriving at the Chinese border. Violating the rule can lead to a fine as well as detention. Travellers entering Hong Kong through Mainland China and leaving again through the same route need to have a double or multiple entry visa for Mainland China.

• In June 1997, ‘The UK and Hong Kong Reciprocal Health Care Arrangement’ came to an end.
  

Legal Information

• By and large, Hong Kong’s legal system is modelled after the UK. Activities like littering or spitting attract on the spot fines. Similarly, tolerance level is zero for dodging a ticket for travelling on the Mass Transit Railway (MTR).

• Don’t get involved with illicit drugs of any kind. Possession of such illicit drugs can land you in jail.

• It is advisable not to click military installations in Hong Kong. Ever since the handover in 1997, Hong Kong’s defence has become the responsibility of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA). In fact, previous British military barracks are now under the PLA.
  

Medical Information

• Temperature screenings maybe carried out at the border and additional medical tests can also be ordered depending upon the temperature screening results.

• Dengue fever is highly prevalent in Hong Kong.

• Exercise usual precautions against HIV/AIDS. This includes refraining from unprotected sex with strangers and avoiding tattoos and acupuncture therapies.

• Seek medical advice before booking your flights to Hong Kong. Visitors should make sure that all the required vaccinations have been taken. The websites of the NHS Scotland’s Fit for Travel and the National Travel Heath Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) have further information on vaccinations, overall disease prevention, and health outbreaks. Information can also be obtained by calling NHS Direct on the number 0845 46 47.

• Medical care is very expensive in Hong Kong and travellers should be armed with comprehensive travel and medical insurance. Make sure that the policy covers things like adventure sports or other activities that you are likely to indulge in. Keep a sharp lookout for exclusions on the policy.
  

BA’s Cabin Crew Votes for Strike

British Airways is the flag carrier of United Kingdom and is amongst the most flamboyant airlines in the world. But everything is not going properly for the website as the cabin crew has gone on a strike. The entire cabin crew of British Airways once again voted for a strike which is quite bad news for the airlines.

This is quite a bad news for all the visitors who have booked cheap tickets on flights for the Easter vacation. With the long weekends of Easter and the royal wedding in the coming month of April cheap tickets on flights will be quite difficult to find.

The General Secretary designate Mr. Len McCluskey appealed to British Airways for figuring out some sought of negotiations. It quoted on the internet that, “Surely BA management must now wake up and listen to the voice of their skilled and dedicated employees.”

It has been quite long time since the problem between the crew and the company started but now it has surely come to a saturation point with the cabin crew going on a strike. The British Airways has refuted to the union claims of majority support of the cabin crew. It has been found that Unite has lost around 2,500 cabin crew members since the dispute started quite some time ago.

“Even with a smaller membership, the proportion of Unite members supporting disruption continues to fall, contrary to the union's claims,” The airline has said in a statement. The British Airways has insisted that in the event of strike all the ticket holders will not be troubled and all the flights will operate on normal timetables and from different airports as well.

British Airways is amongst the biggest airlines in the world and once it was also rated as the best in the world. But the recent feuds with its crew members has resulted it in falling on its head. It is believed by the company that the feud will surely be solved in the near future and it will start providing flights to people from all across the world.

Valley of the Kings, Egypt – Information and Tips

Decked out at the west bank of the Nile across Luxor, lies the Valley of kings in Egypt, which is another place of undying mystery. The kings of the new Kingdom during the eras including 16th to 11th centuries BC were mainly buried here. Besides, it is believed that the Pharaohs chose this particular isolated valley to build their tombs because a Theban Peak evocative of the shape of a pyramid stood towering over it. The Valley of the Kings is divided into two parts which are the east and the west valley.

The East Valley
It encompasses most of the tombs of Pharaohs from the new kingdom which are open to the public.

The West Valley
It has only one tomb open to public because of which tourist mainly flock to the east valley. One can explore the tomb of Ay who succeeded the Egyptian throne after Tutankhamun.

Tomb of Tutankhamun
The most famous of all tombs is of the King Tutankhamun which is the most recently discovered tomb and has been named KV 62 as per the tomb naming convention. Tutankhamun died unexpectedly at an early age of around 19 years following a brief reign. The tomb is considerably smaller as compared to those of other Egyptian Pharaohs. The linen wrapped mummy of the king still rests in the tomb. A number of artefacts were gathered during the excavation of the tomb. This intriguing legacy of Tutankhamun has travelled all over the world. The gold burial mask remains one of the most popular and fascinating symbols.

Best Time to Visit Egypt
Longing to unveil the mystical saga of the Valley of Kings? Don’t forget to plan the trip to Egypt during the favourable seasons. Although, winters from December to February may be the perfect time to visit the country, it may be difficult to net cheap flights to Egypt for these months. Spring lasts from March to May and autumn from September to November. These are good times to explore most attractions in the country including the Valley of the Kings. Flights to Egypt with number of airlines are usually more easily available for these months as compared to the winter peak season.

Practical Information for Visiting Valley of the Kings
The visitors require a standard ticket to explore the three tombs however they need to buy a separate one for the tomb of the King Tutankhamun.

Some of the tombs can be closed from time to time for the renovation.

Necessary things to carry include sunglasses and sun blocking lotion. Often tourists are seen in the valley with terrible sunburns. Durable and comfortable shoes are must as there is a lot of walking around, climbing down and up the various tombs.

Tombs can be oppressively hot especially in summers and it is important to take ample amount of water irrespective of the season. Water can also be purchased at the visitor center.

Photography is allowed against a permit in most tombs however flash photography is prohibited. Take plentiful batteries for your camera to the tombs. Although these are sold within the Valley of the Kings, the price will be exorbitantly high.

Reaching Valley of the Kings, Egypt
A number of international airlines connect Egypt to the rest of the world. One can find a number of Egypt holiday experts who can book cheap tickets for flights as well as budget accommodation at the destination. Luxor is the most convenient launch pad for starting Valley of the Kings expedition. Arrive in Luxor which is connected to Cairo and other major cities in Egypt by regular trains service, buses and taxis. While in Luxor, there are ferries or private motor boats to get you to the Valley of the Kings. At the ferry terminal, there are taxis to take you around the sites.