Kyle MacLachlan offers tips for travelling on cheap flights

Kyle MacLachlan, best known for his roles in series such as Desperate Housewives and Sex and the City, has been talking about how to make the most of traveling.

In an interview with the Daily Telegraph, he explained that packing light and taking something comfortable to wear on a flight are the most important things to consider when heading to the airport. He told the newspaper: "I try to travel light to avoid baggage issues," noting that he'll do "anything possible to make the journey comfortable"

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Travel companies 'positive' about 2010

New research has found that many in the travel industry have a positive outlook for the rest of this year and are not suffering in the wake of the depression.

A survey conducted by Wanderlust and the AITO revealed that 67 per cent of respondents have seen an increase in bookings, while a further 15 per cent are reporting similar levels to the previous year. Customers looking for the perfect holiday continue to be more influenced by the destination than anything else.

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Southalltravel.co.uk Wins The Best Consolidator Award 2009 by Kenya Airways

In what is seen as another leap forward, the UK based Southall Travel has recently bagged the ‘Best Consolidator’ Award for 2009 from Kenya Airways, one of the most renowned air carriers in Africa. Mr. Bruce Watson, Sales Manager UK and Ireland, Kenya Airways presented the award to Mr. Jaymin Borkhatria, Director of Sales, Southall Travel at an agency-appreciation lunch and awards ceremony organised by the airline at the Simpson’s-in-the-Strand, London. Also present at the event were Ms. Salina Hussein, the Key Account Manager for Southall Travel at Kenya Airways, and the representatives of some of the distinguished travel agencies in the country.

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Holiday snaps trigger memories of smells for Brits

People who are jetting off on flights to Thailand and other exotic locations will no doubt be planning to take plenty of photos to serve as mementos of their trip.

But new research has revealed that photos do not just bring back happy memories, they also evoke smells in our minds. According to the survey carried out by Nikon, 47 per cent of Brits said that they could remember the smell associated with a picture.

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Jet Airways unveils new menu

Anyone who has booked flights to India with Jet Airways will soon be able to sample a new menu on its services, the company has revealed.

The new menu will be rolled out on April 1st, offering hot hors d'ouvres for the first time.

In 2009, the airline collaborated with Michelin-starred chef Yves Mattagne to revamp its food, with a host of western dishes designed to complement the carrier's Indian meals.

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Holidaymakers 'going online' for travel advice

People who are planning a holiday abroad are turning to the web to read reviews from fellow travellers before they make a decision, according to an expert.

Rachel Morgan-Trimmer, founder of thecareerbreaksite.com, commented that online advice offers a number of benefits beyond printed travel brochures. The main advantage, she noted, is that information online can be updated immediately, meaning that those headed to adventure travel destinations can get up-to-the minute visa information and official travel advice.

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Book flights to Kerala for an alternative trip

People who are planning to book flights to India, but have yet to decide where to visit in the vast country, may want to think about travelling to the southern state of Kerala.

In a selection of alternative breaks compiled by the Daily Telegraph, a singing tour in Kerala was among the options suggested for the "reluctant traveller".

Find more details here: Book flights to Kerala for an alternative trip

Aviation in India - The Current Scenario

The Outlook…

With the global economic recovery on the horizon, the aviation industry in India is poised for a spectacular takeoff. Unprecedented changes are anticipated in the aviation sector as

the domestic passenger segment is expected to register annual growth rates of over 50% . Even the international passenger segment is slated to grow at 25% annually as per industry forecasts.

 

The looming crisis

Notwithstanding these glowing projections, the current situation in the industry continues to alarm policy makers, regulators and industry leaders alike. Presently, flights to India can be effortlessly found on the internet as popular web portals compete aggressively to sell cheap tickets to consumers who are increasingly becoming price sensitive. This has exerted severe pressure on the margins enjoyed by air carriers. Adding to the woes of the industry is the abysmal airport infrastructure visible in the acute shortage of parking bays, takeoff / landing slots& air traffic control facilities.

 

The recent hike in the price of Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) has further added to the anguish of the airlines as it has the potential to take the industry on a downward spiral that can prove fatal. Rising fuel costs will lead to a steep rise in the price of air tickets that would result in a significant reduction in passenger traffic. As a consequence, airlines may reduce the frequency of flights in the non-lucrative routes severely impairing India's well developed airline network. As destinations begin to lose connectivity, passengers will either respond by reducing their frequency of air travel or choose to travel by train or buses. Such a scenario will have disastrous consequences for the entire aviation sector in India. Foreign investments will dry up and fresh domestic investment will be hard to find; taking the industry to a point of no return.

 

The Response

In response to the crisis, the industry has embarked on a cost-cutting spree and that too with a vengeance. Most full service carriers have chosen to outsource ancillary functions like ground handling, reservation, aircraft maintenance, catering, training, accounting, IT infrastructure, loyalty programme management to reduce their operational costs. Air lines are now paying  more attention to the air cargo segment and develop its revenue potential by maintaining a dedicated fleet of aircraft for handling air cargo. To cut down their labour costs, airlines have also resorted to hiring contract labour for cabin crew, ticketing and check-in functions and retired personnel from Air force and PSU's have been engaged at senior management positions as part of the cost –cutting exercise.

 

The government on its part is acutely conscious of the crisis and has stepped in to avert an implosion in the aviation space. By keeping the tax on jet fuel at a low rate of four percent for smaller planes, it has offered an olive branch for regional carriers that typically use smaller aircrafts. It wants to aggressive promote regional aviation and has chosen not to cut the tax rate on aviation fuel for full service carriers which currently hovers at around 30-40%. 

 

The Ministry of Civil Aviation has advised air -carriers to consume less engine power and reduce their operations on routes attracting lower load factors. The government is also contemplating several fiscal and monetary incentives to make India a major hub for Air craft Manufacturing and MRO (Maintenance and Repair Operations) in Asia. It is expected that these strategic moves will give the much needed fillip to the industry  and propel it to a new trajectory of growth.

See Delhi in a different way with unique street tours

While many people who book flights to Delhi only intend to see the main sights, such as the India Gate and the Red Fort, there is one tour company which offers a different take on the city.

The Salaam Baalak Trust is a charity that helps street children find jobs and offers tours to visitors which are run by the children that it has helped. Nigel Richardson, a journalist with the Daily Telegraph, recently went on one of these tours and described his guide as "a testament to the lifesaving work done by the Salaam Baalak Trust".

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India receives tourism award

People who have booked flights to India may be interested to know that the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) has honoured its members in the country.

Members of the PATA chapter in India were given the Spirit of PATA award for 2010 following the way in which tourism operators in the country coped in the wake of the Mumbai terrorist attack in 2008. According to PATA, those working in the industry demonstrated "incredible determination and resolve" following the incident almost two years ago.

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Kumbh Mela enters its final month in India

One of the biggest religious gatherings on the planet is currently taking place in the Indian foothills of the Himalayas.

Kumbh Mela, which happens four times every 12 years, will be held in the Indian town until April 28th, the Guardian revealed.

Each gathering shifts to a different location, the news provider explained, with Allahabad, Ujjain and Nashik all taking a turn to host the festival.

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Lufthansa launches new iPhone apps

Anyone booking flights to India with Lufthansa could find that the airline's new applications - or apps - for the iPhone may be of use.

Its self-titled iPhone app offers travellers the chance to check up-to-date flight information, as well as allowing them to manage their bookings, check-in online and access their Lufthansa Miles & More account details.

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Relax on a spa break in Goa

Anyone who has booked flights to Goa but has yet to make plans for their accommodation should consider a spa break, on journalist has stated.

Writing for the Times, Paul Croughton picked out some of the best healthy breaks around the world. The Sanda Wellness retreat was among his selections, which is said to leave guests feeling "calm and serene".

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Kanyakumari plans adventure and eco-friendly attractions

An eco-friendly getaway in Kanyakumari could be the perfect holiday option for people looking for flights to India.

The country's southernmost tip has plenty to offer holidaymakers, Asian Lite reported, as the region's spiritual side has recently merged with a modern sense of adventure. When travellers have tired of visiting Vivekananda Rock at the Bay of Bengal, ecotourism events such as bird-watching may also be appealing, as 17 types of migratory birds can be spotted in the region.

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Political Unrest in Thailand Anticipated To Hit Normal Life

March may not be the best time to buy cheap tickets to Thailand, as the region would witness massive demonstrations. The government is taking no chances and has enforced the Internal Security Act.

Internal Security Act Rolled Out in Thailand

Anticipating trouble in the wake of the upcoming anti government mass protest marches by the left wing Red Shirts, the government of Thailand has implemented the Internal Security Act (ISA) in Thailand and seven nearby areas. The act empowers the Internal Security Operations Command with the following powers:

• state officials to take any step to curtail illegal activities.
  

• Protect the life and property of people by ensuring that no malicious actions are carried out with explosive related electronic equipment.

• Sealing of any locality or building during its operational hours, with the exception of permission from a designated official.

• Curtailing the carrying of weapons outside dwelling places.
  

• Enforcing curfew orders by restricting exit from dwelling places.

• Prohibiting or providing restricted access to vehicles in certain areas.

Duration and Sites of the Protest

The protests has already started on 12 March and expected to continue till 23 March. Its covering almost 10 sites, namely Nonthaburi City Hall, the town hall of Samut Prakan province, Lumpini Park, King Taksin Memorial on Wong Wien Yai Circle, Tung Song Hong, Din Daeng, Laksi monument, two sites in Pathum Thani province’s Lamlukka district, and Bangna. The protests would move to Ratchadamnoen Road on 14 March.

The main Bangkok rally would take place on 14 March covering the area from Sanam Laung to King Rama V’s Equestrian Statue. The main stage of the rally would be at Ratchadarnnoen Klang road’s Phan Fa Leeland Bridge.

Regions Covered by ISA

As per Panithan Wattanayakorn, the spokesperson for the Prime Minister’s Office, ISA would be enforced throughout Bangkok and Nonthaburi as well as some districts of Ayutthaya, Pathum Thani, Nakhon Pathom, Samut Prakarn, Chachoengsao, and Samut Sakorn. Although, rallying would be permitted, but the police and military forces would have every right to ensure that peace is maintained and public property is not damaged.

Economic Fallout of the Scenario

Among the chief concerns is the possible closure of Bangkok’s airports by protestors. Bangkok is a hub for many international full service as well as low cost airlines with travellers vying to book cheap flights to this exciting destination and in case of such a development, the country’s economy will suffer a crippling blow. However, the Red Shirts have assured not to close any airports. Mr. Quinton Quayle, the UK ambassador to Bangkok also raised the issue with the opposition party Puea Thai, who are Red Shirts sympathisers.

Expectedly, the market sentiment is far from robust. February saw a sharp decline in indices. In fact, the central bank of Thailand released a statement that it was deliberating a rise in rates to normalise policy settings. However, the political unrest has upset the timing.

Enlighten Yourself in the Land of Kamasutra

Famous the world over for its erotic stone sculptures, Khajuraho is a beautiful experience for any traveller. Highlighting the eternal truth that the gratification of worldly desires is the pathway to heaven, these sculptures are nothing short of an epic carved in stone. Attend the evening sound and light show within the temple complex that provides interesting insights about the history of Chandelas who constructed these magnificent temples in an inspired burst of creativity.

Lots of portals on the web offer handy tips on how to get cheap tickets on all flights to India if you plan a rendezvous with the exotic sculptures of Khajuraho. Your trip to India will also give you a chance to explore its vivid cultural landscape that is an amalgam of numerous races, castes and religions.

Tour India’s forts, palaces and places of worship and witness history unfold before you. Visit its splendid temples like the Sun Temple at Konark Birla Mandir, Chattarpur Mandir, Isckon Temple, Lotus Temple, Khir Bhawani that highlight India’s rich cultural heritage. Do visit the Taj Mahal in Agra that is sure to spellbind you with its astounding beauty. This mausoleum in white marble is considered as the epitome of love and continues to enchant visitors even today.

To explore the magical landscape of India in all its glory, select your seat on any cheap flight to India with southalltravel.co.uk for your tour from the October to March season which is the ideal time to travel this enchanting land. You’re sure to return with loads of memories and a resolve to return again.

Best-selling author talks of desire to visit India

The author of the best-selling book Under the Tuscan Sun has been talking about her desire to visit other countries.

Frances Mayes wrote her story of moving to Italy to start a new life 20 years ago and now, with a new book about life in the country about to hit the shelves, she's been talking about other destinations to visit. In an interview with CNN, she said that she wants to travel to a number of countries over the coming years.

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ABTA pledges support for tourists

People who book cheap flights often face a dilemma when paying for their journey due to regulations about support and assistance should the carrier face financial difficulties. One of the key issues addressed in the manifesto published by ABTA - The Travel Association on March 10th aims to provide more support to travellers.

It stated that work needs to be done to "reform consumer protection for holidays, flights and accommodation to ensure that all the travelling public are protected". The announcement could provide additional peace of mind to anyone booking trips and travelling on flights to India, for example.

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Sea plane flights 'may be launched for tourists in Kerala'

Anyone who has booked flights to India with the intention of staying in the Kerala area may be pleased to hear that the Tourism Ministry for the region is considering introducing a sea plane service.

Tourism Minister Kodiyeri Balakrishnan explained that a study is underway to determine whether sea plane flights would be feasible, Asian Lite reported. He told the news provider: "The proposed project will become a reality only if the feasibility study looks into areas of pollution and whether inland water transport and fishing will be affected."

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Stay in the lap of luxury on holidays to Delhi

People who have booked flights to Delhi for the Commonwealth Games later this year will no doubt be thinking about where to stay during a visit to the city. Travellers who are looking for a luxury hotel could be pleased to learn that the Leela Palace New Delhi will open its doors for business in time for the sporting event.

Anyone seeking five-star accommodation should find it here, with the complex offering deluxe rooms and suites, private pools, a rooftop terrace and a spa.

For those who like their food, there will be three restaurants on site serving up a host of Indian, Italian and Japanese dishes to enjoy.

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Travel to Gujarat for unusual holidays to India

People who have recently booked flights to Mumbai or other cities in the west of India should consider heading to the region of Gujarat, it has been claimed.

Writing for the Times, Caroline Eden explained that this little-explored corner of the country offers unusual cultural experiences as well as a chance to spot some rare wildlife. She stayed at the Rann Riders resort, which is a two-hour drive out of the region's capital Ahmedabad.

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Plan your travels around Delhi with a new metro map

Anyone who has booked flights to Delhi but is worried about negotiating the city's metro can start to plan ahead with a new tool from Google.

The search engine has added the Delhi metro routes to its Google Transit service, which allows people all over the world to view the network of transport links and plan their journey before they touch down in the country.

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Qatar Airways expands fleet for flights to India

Anyone who is looking for flights to India may well be considering travelling with Qatar Airways and now the carrier has revealed that its fleet has doubled in size over the past five years.

In addition to adding new routes to destinations such as Bangalore, Amritsar and Goa since October last year, the company has also increased the number of aircrafts it operates.

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Go To India For Sure Delights!

India for sure delights! Offering visitors with an array of experiences that include sun-kissed beaches, undulating terrains and breathtaking scenery, the country never fails to mesmerize those who come to explore its magnificent landscape.

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Best Time To Book Flights To India From Uk

Come to India and witness its remarkable topographical and cultural diversity that best reflects its multi-ethnic, multi-cultural character. It is this diversity which defines this enchanting land where local cultures have been influenced not just by climatic conditions but also be religion and faith. If you plan to visit India on your next holiday then the best way to land yourself an amazing deal is to log on to the web and browse through some travel portals like www.southalltravel.co.uk that offer competitive rates and exciting package deals.

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Best Time to Fly to Goa

Flanked by the Western Ghats, on one side and the Arabian Sea on the other, the coastal state of Goa offers the ideal climate for vacationing all throughout the year. This coastal paradise benefits immensely from the moderating influence of the sea that prevents extremities of temperature in both summers and winters. Average temperature in Goa hovers around the range of 25 to 35 degree celsius in summers though it even reaches at times, to a high level of 45 degrees. Typically in summers, the days are hot and the evenings tend to remain pleasant.

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Book flights to Delhi and 'discover one of northern India's hidden attractions'

People who are jetting off on holidays to India should consider exploring some of the areas off the beaten-tourist track, one travel expert has claimed.

Sarina Singh, senior author for Lonely Planet India, explained that the city of Chandigarh has a number of sights which are becoming increasingly popular with travellers in the country. Among them are the Nek Chand Fantasy Rock Garden, which she claimed is now one of the most visited sites in India.

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