Tuesday, August 30, 2011

Temple Fair rises to be a top festive occasion

The report as of Wednesday by the organizers of Chengdu Temple Fair said that about 700 thousand visitors had been registered in nine days since the opening of the temple fair at the end of last month and the event was catching eyes across China for its colorful and spectacular programs.
Alongside with its original programs highlighting the Three Kingdoms culture, the Temple Fair of this year put on the stage acrobatics, kungfu, operas, equestrian stunts, animal performances and folklore singing and dancing, as well as the performances by overseas artists, such as Scottish bagpipes, Uganda drums, Russian dances and piano concerts from Australia.
The glamour of the fair thrilled the visitors and the event and caused the attention of major media in the country, including China Central Television (CCTV) and newspapers in Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou, which ranked Chengdu Temple Fair as one of the most recommended destinations for cultural trips for
visitors, especially the younger generation, during the Spring Festival holidays, said the organizers.
The fair is scheduled to close on Feb. 20.

Tuesday, August 9, 2011

EasyJet new destinations from Stansted airport

easyJet expanding at london Stansted airport with the launch of four new routes to the Turkish delights of Dalaman and Bodrum, and Croatian charm of Split and Dubrovnik.

Speaking about the launch of easyJet's new routes from Stansted, Sophie Dekkers, easyJet UK Commercial Manager, said: “Falling outside of the Eurozone, Turkey and Croatia are this year’s ‘hottest’ destinations for travellers seeking a new experience, that won’t break the bank, and with flights from £26.99* we’re making these destinations more accessible for all.

Nick Barton, Commercial and Development Director at Stansted Airport, commented: "Stansted is already at the heart of low-cost air travel in Europe, and so we're delighted to welcome these exciting new easyJet routes to Turkey and Croatia onto our network this weekend.

"Despite current economic climate, people still want to fly, and with new direct links to Spain, France and USA set to start from Stansted in the coming weeks, we're gearing up for some exciting developments to our network."

“EasyJet now offers a total of 30 routes from Stansted, and we plan to expand this further to provide even more choice to travellers. The secret to our success is offering the best value fares, to the most convenient airports.”

Stansted airport welcomes airasia X long-haul connections

AirAsia X has introduced a new premium cabin, with flatbed business class seats, on its fleet of aircraft operating between Stansted and Kuala Lumpur.

Speaking at the launch of the new premium class seating, Stansted Airport's Commercial and Development Director, Nick Barton, commented: "Stansted is at the heart of low-cost air travel in Europe and we're delighted to be part of this exciting development in long-haul, low-cost, premium flatbed seating.

"The new premium cabin is an exciting development for long-haul business class passengers, and we look forward to supporting AirAsia X as they continue to develop their services here at Stansted."

"AirAsia X routes have seen encouraging feedback on the new seats; from our Australian cousins who like a bit of lay flat luxury to our friends in India, China and further afield enjoying the low cost option of flying flat compared to the legacy carriers.”

"AirAsia X is revolutionising air travel connections between Europe, Asia and beyond. A recent survey of passengers departing Stansted showed that two thirds of travellers were connecting on flights from Kuala Lumpur, with over 90% booked on AirAsia's network to destinations including Melbourne, Perth, Singapore and Hong Kong.
AirAsia X CEO Azran Osman-Rani said: “As frequent flyers ourselves, we understand the great need for comfort especially for long-haul flights.

“AirAsia X is currently flying from Stansted to Kuala Lumpur and on to long-haul destinations in Australia, China, and India in addition to the short-haul destinations available across the Asia Pacific network and beyond. Both business and leisure travellers can now enjoy greater low-fare connectivity than ever before whilst treating themselves to the luxury and comfort of our new Premium FlatBed seats. For further information on AirAsia's new premium cabin, flight schedules and reservations, visit www.airasia.com.

airbus a380 cleared to land at Stansted airport

Stansted Airport's ambition to raise its global profile has received a major boost after gaining approval to handle the world's largest airliners.

The Civil Aviation Authority has awarded the UK's third busiest airport Code F status, which now allows aircraft such as the Airbus A380 and the new Boeing 747-8 to operate from the airport.

The official go-ahead, which follows months of work to demonstrate the airport's operational readiness to airbus a380 aircraft, now opens the door for new airline growth for both passenger and cargo operations.

"Our mission is to make sure the world's aviation decision makers know all about the excellent, modern facilities we have on offer here at Stansted Gaining Code F status gives us a competitive advantage as we focus our work and energy towards airlines from across the Middle and Far East, and the USA.

"We have the drive, ambition and desire to succeed, and we are very confident we can achieve our aim of making Stansted the London airport of choice in the years ahead."

Singapore Airlines, Qantas, Air France, Lufthansa and Emirates are the five airlines currently using the Airbus superjumbo but many more airlines have them on order.

An immediate benefit has seen Stansted named as Emirates' alternative airport for their A380 aircraft, if they are forced to divert as a precaution or if the destination airport is unavailable.

Stansted's Commercial and Development Director, Nick Barton, who along with the airport's managing director, David Johnson, recently visited a number of the Middle East's largest airlines who use or plan to use the A380 , said:

"We're delighted to have won permission to handle the world's biggest Code F aircraft, an achievement that will make Stansted even more attractive to potential carriers - both passengers and cargo. It's credit to the original designers of Stansted who showed astonishing vision in the 1980s to create an airport capable of handling the superjets of the future.
Matthew Knowles, spokesman for ADS the UK's Aerospace, Defence and Security trade organisation, explained some of the environmental benefits of the new generation of aircraft.

"The Airbus A380 is more fuel efficient than a hybrid car and produces less perceived noise at take off than that experienced by a passenger inside a London Underground Train. Furthermore, half of the aircraft, when fitted with Rolls- Royce engines alongside other major contributions from British firms, is made in the UK," said Mr Knowles.

Oman Air Opens Sale Office in Thailand

Oman Air, the National Carrier of the Sultanate of Oman has recently opened their new and swanky Passenger Sale Agency in Pattaya. This is the second office of Oman Air in Thailand after Bangkok.

Oman Air new Pattaya office is centrally located at Pattaya 2nd road, soi 1. Pattaya is about 110 km away from the Suvarnabhumi International Airport in Bangkok, and is about an hour-and-a-half drive.

Oman Air currently operates nine weekly flights in the Muscat-Bangkok-Muscat route.

A colourful event marked the opening of the new office, which was attended by Ronakit Ekasingh, Deputy Mayor of Pattaya City, and Mr.Rattanachai Suttidachanai, Chairman of Tourism and Sports Committee, who congratulated Ahmed Hazeem Al Balushi, District Sales Manager, Oman Air, Thailand on the occasion. Also in attendance were the representatives of the Oman Air’s GSA, TPP International Co, Ltd.


Speaking on the occasion, Ahmed Hazeem Al Balushi said:

“The new Oman Air office is aimed to meet the increase demand and to facilitate the tourist passengers in Pattaya on reservation and ticketing. Oman Air’s flights to and from Bangkok have been doing extremely well ever since we commenced operations in 2008, and the tourists who visit Bangkok make it a point to visit the scenic white-sand beaches of Pattaya and the other attractions. We are sure that with this new office, we can cater even better to the demands of our valued passengers”

Oman Air Appoints airport hotels Chief Officer

Oman Air has recently appointed Richard Hodges as Chief Officer – Hotels & Catering. Richard Hodges brings with him entrenched expertise in Hotels and In-flight Catering, which meets the Company’s rapid expansion in this regard.

Expressing his contentment on his appointment, Richard Hodges said:

“I am thrilled to join Oman Air and take on this immense and rewarding challenge which lies ahead of me. Oman Air is in a phase where the leisure and hospitality sector is poised for a symbiotic growth. As the airline is expanding its wings further afield, and the awareness on Oman is reaching across to a global audience, I am sure this can be translated into fruitful business ventures, with the support and guidance from Oman Air’s management team and the board of directors.”

Hodges has over 30 years of experience in the hotel and catering industry, and has over the years held many international and corporate operating positions. Some of his former appointments include: Vice President of Business Development of Regal Hotels International, General Manager of Regal Airport Hotel in Hong Kong, and Vice President of hotel projects in San Diego, California, USA. Hodges had been the Chairman of Hong Kong Airport Managers Association, a member of the Executive Committee of Hong Kong Hotels Association, besides the Sub-committee of The American Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong.

A couple of years back, Oman Air made its initial foray into a new area of business with its acquisition of the Golden Tulip Hotel in Muscat. Situated in close proximity to the Muscat International Airport, the hotel opens up viable synergies for Oman Air not only in terms of the leisure aspect, but also through the services offered to other airlines and passengers. In order to tap the full potential of this developing business area, which is one of the six strategic business units of Oman Air, it was decided then by the management to appoint a Chief Officer for this unit reporting directly to the CEO.

Hodges’ experience in the business development of airport hotels and hospitality industry in general is sure to aid him in achieving the desired results for Oman Air in growing the Hotels & Catering Business.

Oman Air first/Business Lounges at Muscat Airport

Oman Air, the national carrier of the Sultanate of Oman, has unveiled spectacular new First Class and Business Class lounges at Muscat International Airport. The lounges continue the themes of luxury, comfort and outstanding hospitality found on Oman Air’s aircraft, ensuring a seamless passenger experience.
“Staff from throughout Oman Air have worked closely with JPA to create exceptional environments in which guests can relax and enjoy our excellent hospitality. Our menus have been meticulously planned to provide the perfect meal for any time of the day or night, from light bites to hearty meals, and our First Class guests can enjoy an a la carte menu, each dish of which is individually prepared to the guest’s requirements by their personal chef. The menus are perfectly complemented by the finest selection of soft drinks, wines and spirits and it is all served by staff trained to the highest standards.”
The two lounges are located on the first floor of the terminal and combine the ultimate in modern and elegant interior design, state-of-the-art materials and technology and the generous hospitality for which Oman and Oman Air are renowned. Each lounge is open 24 hours a day and offers dedicated dining facilities, quiet rooms, men’s and women’s prayer rooms, wash and shower rooms, a business centre, and a “Chedi” spa with massage rooms, offering complimentary 15 minute treatments.

For those travelling with children, a heaven of toys and computer games awaits to keep them occupied within the dedicated playroom.

Exclusive for Oman Air’s First Class passengers are dedicated lifts and staircases to the limousine pick-up point where chauffeurs will take passengers to their aircraft in complete comfort and luxury.

On the opening of the lounges, Oman Air’s Chief Executive Officer, Peter Hill, said:

“Oman Air is increasingly, and rightly, recognised as one of the world’s leading luxury airlines and we are committed to even more innovation, expansion and development, and to delivering an unmatched passenger experience for all our customers. The new lounges at Muscat International Airport reflect both that commitment and our dedication to providing our First Class and Business Class customers with unparalleled standards of luxury and service.”
“These new lounges represent the latest stage in Oman Air’s transformation into a luxury international carrier and I am sure that our First Class and Business Class customers will appreciate this new benchmark in airport hospitality.”
The new lounges are the latest demonstration of Oman Air’s commitment to becoming the first-choice airline for luxury air travel. Their unveiling follows the airline’s recent launch of a new fleet of Airbus A330 aircraft which feature spacious and luxuriously-appointed cabins. Business Class seats are presented in a 1-2-1 configuration, each of which converts into a long, fully lie-flat bed. First Class cabins offer a ‘private jet’-style experience, with just six seats, each with direct aisle access, and an exclusive lounge area. Each aircraft is equipped with state-of-the-art in-flight entertainment systems that offer a large choice of the latest movies, music and games, as well as live satellite TV. Furthermore, Oman Air was the first airline in the world to offer simultaneous in-flight mobile phone and wi-fi connectivity when it launched its new service aboard the A330 fleet.

In addition, Oman Air’s network has expanded rapidly and now includes more than 40 exciting destinations throughout Europe, the Middle East, South and South East Asia, and North and East Africa.

oman air flights to Milan italy

Oman Air launched nonstop flights last December between Muscat, capital of Oman, and the commercial centre and fashion capital of Italy, Milan. The new flights to Milan depart Monday, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, returning the same day. Oman Air’s newly introduced Airbus A330 aircraft featuring, Business and Economy class seating, is operating the new route.

Milan is Oman Air’s 41st destination, and the ninth unveiled since the beginning of last year.
The city of Milan is undeniably one of the most popular destinations in Europe, attracting millions of visitors every year. The new service also offers travellers from Italy a great opportunity to discover the beauty and hospitality of Oman.

Peter Hill continues:

Milan boasts one of the world’s most revered opera houses – La Scala, which, with the imminent completion of the Royal Opera House in Muscat, underlines the perfect timing of Oman Air's new service to the city. We look forward to build closer ties in many sectors including business, tourism, and investment. As well, our foray into the very competitive European segment will open up new markets for us, due to the superior features of our product. I am confident that our new flights to Milan will enhance further the strong relations that exist between Oman and Italy."

Over the last year, Oman Air has redefined air travel, setting new standards for comfort and luxury in every class, introducing state-of-the-art in-flight entertainment, including live satellite TV, and pioneering in-flight mobile phone and Wi-Fi connectivity.

Peter Hill concludes:

“As the only airline to offer a direct service from Italy to Oman, we are inviting the Italian people to visit Oman and to experience the Sultanate's legendary hospitality, dramatic landscapes, and unspoiled coastline. With world-class hotels, an incredible range of leisure activities and year-round sunshine, Oman looks forward to offering visitors the warmest of welcomes. With the unmatched luxury provided by our new fleet of Airbus and the exceptional services both on board and at the airport, we are sure Oman Air will reinforce its position in long haul routes."

Oman Air win Airline Amenity Bag Awards

Oman Air has been scooped three awards at the TravelPlus Airline Amenity Bag Awards 2010.

The national carrier of the Sultanate of Oman won the Gold Award in the Best First Class Female Amenity Bag category, the Gold Award for Best In-flight Amenity – recognising Oman Air’s pioneering introduction of both mobile phone and W-Fi connectivity onboard its aircraft – and the Silver Award for Best First Class Male Amenity Bag. Oman Air was also shortlisted in the Best Business Class Unisex Amenity Bag category. Winning the awards follows a year in which Oman Air has been transformed, with the introduction of new airbus A330 aircraft to its fleet, the inauguration of a range of exciting new destinations, the unveiling of spacious and luxurious aircraft interiors and the launch of state-of-the-art in-flight entertainment systems. Oman Air has also been at the forefront of technological innovation as it became the first airline in the world to offer passengers full mobile phone and wi-fi connectivity simultaneously on its widebody aircraft.

Mr Abdulrazaq Alraisi, Chief Commercial Officer, Oman Air, said:

“Oman Air is extremely proud to have won these awards, especially against such strong competition. Our amenity kits contain everything the premium traveller needs to ensure they arrive at their destination relaxed, refreshed and revitalised.

“They contain a range of luxurious skin care products from the world-renowned Omani perfumery, Amouage, together with a number of essential toiletries and personal grooming items.

“As the first airline in the world to offer customers both mobile phone and Wi-Fi connectivity aboard our Airbus A330 fleet, we are delighted to be recognised for our pioneering role. It is a source of pride that our passengers can now enjoy the same communications and entertainment choices in the air that they take for granted on the ground.

“These awards are recognition of the hard work and creativity of Oman Air’s staff and I would like to thank the entire team for all their efforts in creating these unique products.

“I firmly believe that we offer the very best in choice and luxury for our customers and these awards further enhance Oman Air’s reputation as one of the world’s leading airlines.”

Kuala Lumpur muscat Holiday packages

Oman Air Holidays have come up with unbeatable packages to Kuala Lumpur

For just OMR 199 per person, the 3-nights Malaysia package that includes flight, hotel, transfers and taxes comes as a never-to-be-missed offer that is sure to be extremely popular with discerning travellers.

Nigel Stoker, General Manager, Oman Air Holidays says:

‘We have partnered with the 4-star Seri Pacific Hotel in Kuala Lumpur which offers great ambiance and impeccable service to make the stay a memorable one. It is just a short walk from the Petronas Tower and the bustling shopping areas of Kuala Lumpur. Or for just OMR 34 extra per person, the stay can be upgraded to the popular 5-star Prince Hotel. The Malaysia package includes return flight on Oman Air’s A 330 aircraft offering 34” pitch legroom with the best of in-flight entertainment; 3-nights twin-share at the 4-star hotel, return airport transfers with Meet & Greet, daily buffet breakfast; all airline taxes, and even free dinner on the last evening.

For those who want to travel closer to home, Oman Air Holidays have packages to Salalah partnering with the 5* Salalah Marriott Resort and the 5* Crowne Plaza Salalah Resort to offer residents of Muscat an opportunity to experience the enchanting city of Salalah with 5-star services and amenities. The Salalah Break Package includes return flights from Muscat, complimentary hotel transfers with a two nights luxury stay at one of the 5-star resorts on twin share basis and complimentary buffet breakfast.

Nigel Stoker says:

“The subtropical city of Salalah is an ideal and rewarding destination for those who wish to escape the hustle and bustle of Muscat. Unspoiled, delightfully lush and picturesque, Salalah boasts captivating archaeological remains registered as UNESCO World Heritage Sites and is the home to the prized and fabled frankincense trees. A haven for any nature enthusiast.

Packages start from OMR 99 per person at the Salalah Marriott Resort, and OMR 129 per person at the Crowne Plaza Salalah Resort, which also offers free buffet dinner every night.

Oman Air Student fare discount

Oman Air, the national carrier of the Sultanate of Oman, has extended its special 'International Student Fares' into the New Year for Omani students between the ages of 12 and 25 who are enrolled in a full-time educational institution. This value added offer will allow students to benefit from discounted fares up to 25% on both domestic and international flights to any of the Airline's 41 destinations across the globe.

First introduced in January 2010, AbdulRazaq J. Al Raisi, Chief Commercial Officer at Oman Air said that this initiative stems from the Airline's strategy to invest in youth and empower them to reach their future goals and aspirations, "Education forms the foundation of any society and we aim to encourage youth, who represent one of the most important assets in propelling the nation forward, to pursue higher education abroad and explore the world to gain international exposure and learn from different cultures to augment personal and professional development."


The 'International Student Fares' will now be in effect until December 31st 2011 and play a pivotal role in sharing the signature Oman Air experience onboard its new state-of-the-art fleet while enrolling them in the Airline's vision of becoming the Airline of choice for travel to and from the Sultanate. Over the course of one year, Oman Air's growth under the guidance of the board of directors and the senior management team has redefined air travel, by setting new standards of comfort and luxury in every class, introduction of state-of-the-art in-flight entertainment including live satellite TV, and by pioneering in-flight mobile phone and wi-fi connectivity.

omanair.com accepts debit/prepaid/ATM cards

Oman Air, the national carrier of the Sultanate of Oman, has enhanced its Web to accept debit cards. This added feature will benefit those customers who do not own credit cards but wish to purchase Oman Air's ticket on the internet.
The website is fully secured and card transactions are encrypted for customer's security. If the customer's card issuing bank has activated the "Verified by Visa" or "Secured by Master Card" service to secure the online shopping, Oman Air Web supports this additional security feature as well.

The convenience of online purchase of Oman Air tickets with credit cards was first introduced in July 2006. Now www.omanair.com accepts debit/prepaid/ATM cards issued with “Visa” or “Master Card” logos, and is a great new convenient, efficient and time saving product.

Debit card acceptance on the web will play a pivotal role in sharing the signature Oman Air experience, starting from the web in selecting best fare, route and convenience of purchasing air ticket.

Over the course of one year, Oman Air's growth, under the guidance of the board of directors and the senior management team, has redefined air travel, by setting new standards of comfort and luxury in every class, introduction of state-of-the-art in-flight entertainment including live satellite TV, and by pioneering in-flight mobile phone and Wi-Fi connectivity.

Oman Air e175 aircraft

Oman Air is now the proud owner of two Embraer E jets, which will be deployed to the regional routes that Oman Air flies to. The deal was originally announced in November 2009 and includes firm orders for five EMBRAER 175s, plus options for another five aircrafts.
With passenger demand for regional travel on the increase, the pressure is on for regional jets to carry more passengers more frequently to closer destinations. Clearly, passenger demand is trending toward the 70 to 110 seat segment, a range for which an efficient aircraft family didn’t exist until now. This is the gap that Oman Air is now filling with the brand new Embraer E 175s.

The new aircrafts to fly to the regional destinations of Oman Air
71 seats, in a dual-class layout, with 11 seats in business class and 60 in economy class
Combines best of Inflight Entertainment and comfort


“We are convinced that the E-jets will bring positive value for Oman Air on its regional network,” said Paulo César de Souza e Silva, Embraer Executive Vice President, Airline Market. “Defining itself as a ‘boutique airline’ in the Gulf area, Oman Air will be offering its customers optimum comfort with the EMBRAER 175.”
Oman Air’s EMBRAER 175 will be configured with 71 seats, in a dual-class layout, with 11 seats in business class and 60 in economy.
“At Embraer, we continually analyze the industry’s performance and interpret trends to understand the future need for aircraft, the markets in which they are deployed, and the economic motivations that drive passenger demand. Today’s shifting market dynamics led us to the principle of fleet capacity optimization and The Rule of 70 to 110. Applied
correctly, The Rule helps airlines achieve operating efficiency without compromising performance or passenger comfort. The EMBRAER 170, 175, 190, and 195 are a new-evolution family of aircraft, each engineered from the ground up to be comfortable, efficient, and cost-effective. From the earliest planning stages, our engineers understood the need for a new platform, an airframe created specifically for the 70 to 110 seat segment. The result incorporates new technology on the flight deck and proven design elements in the cabin, making the new airframe both pilot and passenger friendly.” Said Souza e Silva Inside



Oman Air also signed the Embraer Pool Flight Hour Program service contract. The agreement covers the new EMBRAER 175 jet. Embraer’s Pool program quickly provides replacement parts and eliminates the need for inventory investments, via an agreement in which the customer invests a certain amount, based on the number of flight hours of the aircraft enrolled in the program, against the support needed at any point in time. Embraer assumes the responsibility for maintaining a parts inventory at its distribution and service centres, in order to provide parts to operators as soon as they are requested.

Oman air resume Zanzibar to muscat flights

The National Carrier of the Sultanate of Oman will be resuming services between Muscat and Zanzibar from May 16th. Zanzibar will operate 3 times a week on Mondays, Tuesdays and Saturdays.

Announcing this, Abdulrazaq Alraisi, Chief Commercial Officer, Oman Air said:

"Oman Air is very happy and excited to bring back Zanzibar to our Network. It is a unique destination in terms of tourism potential as well as business and commercial prospects. Oman has friendly relations with Zanzibar and represents our third destination in Africa and second in Tanzania. We are confident Zanzibar will open up new and unique opportunities in bi-lateral tourism and promote both inbound and outbound travels for Oman as well as Zanzibar. Our flights will help build stronger business ties between the two nations and will increase opportunities for tourists from Europe and India sub-Continent who wish to explore and enjoy this unique destination. "


Once a major dhow building hub of the East African region, Zanzibar is now a bustling fishing centre and much of the area's rustic charm remains to delight sports and cultural enthusiasts as well as nature and party lovers. Tourism has long since replaced the ancient art of dhow-building as the town's major industry, but the essence of olden days and its cultural heritage can still be found.

With Salalah Tourism Festival round the corner, the direct and non-stop flights from Salalah to Dubai is expected to bring in big number of tourists into Salalah who can enjoy the cool climes of this city as well as enjoy the festivities of the 45-days-long Salalah Tourism Festival which coincides with the Khareef season.

Abdulrazaq Alraisi said: 'The number of tourists from the Gulf states visiting Salalah during the annual Khareef season has been steadily increasing. With our direct flights we are sure we can cater to more enthusiastic travellers who wish to escape the sizzling summer heat of much of the Arabian Gulf for the cool climate and Monsoon showers of Khareef season."