The Qatar Airways story

Charting the Rise of one of the Fastest Growing Airlines in the World

text supplied by Qatar Airways

Qatar Airways is the national airline of the State of Qatar and one of the aviation industry’s big success stories. Operations began in 1994 when the airline was a small regional carrier serving a handful of routes. The airline was re-launched in 1997 under the mandate of His Highness The Father Emir, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, who outlined a vision to turn Qatar Airways into a leading international airline with the highest standards of service and excellence.

Qatar Airways has since become one of the fastest growing carriers in the world with unprecedented expansion averaging double digit growth year on year.

The airline has developed under the dynamic leadership of Group Chief Executive, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker, appointed in 1997, who has been instrumental in turning Qatar Airways into an award-winning carrier and the best in the world.

Under Mr. Al Baker’s stewardship, Qatar Airways has matured into a leading force in regional and global aviation, earning many admirers around the world for its excellent standards of service.

In April 2011, Qatar Airways reached a milestone reaching 100 destinations in its global route map. Two months later, the airline achieved a remarkable feat, just 14 years after its re-launch, being named Airline of the Year 2011 at the annual Skytrax World Airline Awards with over 18 million travellers worldwide casting their votes. In July 2012, Qatar Airways was once again named Airline of the Year 2012, holding onto its title for the second consecutive year. In June 2015, Qatar Airways achieved a major accomplishment receiving the accolade for a third time and becoming Airline of the Year 2015.

In October 2011, Qatar Airways attained another key milestone by taking delivery of its 100th aircraft.

During the Dubai Air Show in November 2011, Qatar Airways placed orders (firm and options) for 90 aircraft, comprising 80 of Airbus’ new A320 Neos, an additional eight A380 super jumbos and two Boeing 777 freighters.

During the 2013 Dubai Air Show the airline placed orders for more than 60 new aircraft – a mixture of Boeing 777X and Airbus A330 Freighters.

At the 2014 Farnborough Air Show, the airline placed an order for 100 Boeing 777X aircraft, taking Qatar Airways’ orders to more than 330 aircraft with a value of US $70 billion.

Qatar Airways announced an order for 10 firm 777-8Xs and four firm 777 Freighters at the 2015 Paris Air Show, with a value of US$ 4.8 billion.

Qatar Airways has also joined oneworld, as of 30 October 2013, with integration into the global alliance completed within one year of the October 2012 joining announcement.

Global Network and Expansion

From Qatar Airways’ hub in Doha, the country’s capital, the airline has developed a global network of more than 150 destinations, covering Europe, the Middle East, Africa, South Asia, Asia Pacific, North America and South America with a modern fleet of more than 170 passenger and cargo aircraft.

During 2010, Qatar Airways launched flights to 10 new destinations including: Bengaluru (Bangalore), Tokyo, Ankara, Copenhagen, Barcelona, Sao Paulo, Buenos Aires, Phuket, Hanoi and Nice.

In 2011, another historic year for Qatar Airways saw the launch of flights to 15 destinations with expansion focusing on Europe – Bucharest, Budapest, Brussels, Stuttgart, Venice, Oslo and Sofia. Other new routes included Shiraz (Iran), Medina (Saudi Arabia), Kolkata (Calcutta), Entebbe (Uganda), Chongqing (China) and its entry to Canada with thrice-weekly flights to Montreal.

For 2012, Qatar Airways expanded operations to further destinations – Baku (Azerbaijan), Tbilisi (Georgia), Zagreb (Croatia), Perth (Australia), Kigali (Rwanda), Kilimanjaro (Tanzania), Yangon (Myanmar), Baghdad (Iraq), Erbil (Iraq), Maputo (Mozambique), Belgrade (Serbia) and Warsaw (Poland).

For 2013, Qatar Airways has expanded its global footprint to serve Gassim (Saudi Arabia); Najaf (Iraq); Phnom Penh (Cambodia); Chicago, its fourth gateway in the United States; Salalah (Oman), Chengdu (China), Basra (Iraq), Sulaymaniyah (Iraq), Clark International (Philippines), Ta’if (Saudi Arabia), Addis Ababa (Ethiopia) and Hangzhou (China).

In 2014, the carrier launched flights to Sharjah and Dubai World Central in the UAE, Philadelphia (USA), Edinburgh (Scotland), Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen Airport (Turkey), Larnaca (Cyprus), Al Hofuf (Saudi Arabia), Miami (USA), Dallas/Fort Worth (USA), Djibouti (Djibouti) and Asmara (Eritrea) in Africa. During 2015, Qatar Airways has extended its route network to more than 150 destinations including flights to Amsterdam (The Netherlands), Zanzibar (Tanzania), Nagpur (India) and Durban (South Africa). In 2016, the airline has so far launched routes to Los Angeles (USA) and Ras Al Khaimah (UAE). In the next few months the airline is further expanding its network to Atlanta (USA), Boston (USA), Sydney (Australia), Adelaide (Australia) and Yerevan (Armenia). Qatar Airways has also announced its expansion with an increase in frequency and capacity to many existing routes.

New Brand Campaign

On 9 December 2015, Qatar Airways launched its new global brand campaign and tagline – Going Places Together – in New York, USA. The ‘Going Places Together’ campaign plays on the theme of achieving great things together whether for work, for family or for adventure, and encourages passengers to take journeys that will help them achieve their dreams and ambitions. One of the fastest growing airlines

operating one of the youngest fleets in the world, Qatar Airways has adopted the emotive and modern brand campaign to reflect its core values as a contemporary and innovative company that is really going places and wants nothing more than to inspire its passengers to do the same.

Young Fleet

Qatar Airways was the global launch client for the Airbus A350

From only four aircraft in 1997, the airline grew to a fleet size of 28 aircraft by the end of 2003 and a milestone 50 by October 2006. Today the airline operates more than 170 aircraft to more than 150 destinations worldwide.

Qatar Airways has one of the industry’s youngest fleets with an average aircraft age under four years old. The Qatar Airways family includes several different Airbus and Boeing aircraft types – the long-range Boeing 777 passenger and freighter aircraft, the new Boeing 787, Airbus A340, A330, A350, A380, A300F freighter, A321, A320 and A319. The latter A319 includes a corporate jet version.

With the delivery of the A350 XWB aircraft in December 2014, Qatar Airways became the first airline in the world to operate every family of Airbus’ modern airliner portfolio, comprising the A320, A330, A340, A350 and A380.

Qatar Airways is one of the launch customers of the twin-deck Airbus A380-800 ‘super jumbo’ – the world’s biggest aircraft capable of carrying 517 passengers in a luxurious configuration. Qatar Airways has ordered 13 A380s with the first aircraft delivered in 2014.

In December 2014, Qatar Airways became the global launch customer of the Airbus A350 XWB aircraft with the first commercial service being deployed on the Frankfurt route on 15 January 2015.

The company also operates corporate jets, including Bombardier Challenger 605s, Bombardier Global 5000s and a Global Express XRS, for its executive subsidiary Qatar Executive, launched in 2009.

Qatar Executive continues to expand its operations, placing an order for 30 Gulfstream business jets at EBACE in Geneva during May 2015. The 30 firm orders and options are a combination of Gulfstream’s new wide-cabin aircraft, the G500 and G600, and the existing G650ER.

Qatar Airways currently has more than 330 new aircraft worth more than US$70 billion pending delivery over the next few years. This includes an order for Airbus’ new generation A350s, A320 Neos, A380s, A330 Freighters, Boeing 777s, Boeing 777Xs and Boeing 787s.

Global Achievements

Qatar Airways is proud to have been named Airline of the Year for the third time in 2015 as well as in 2011 and 2012 in the annual Skytrax World Airline Awards. Over 18 million travellers worldwide cast their votes in the survey by the leading global airline industry audit.

Having been elevated to third best airline in the world by Skytrax in 2010, announcement of the 2011 results ranking Qatar Airways as Airline of the Year was a culmination of the sheer dedication and hard work by the airline’s workforce under the leadership of its Group Chief Executive His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker. To retain the award in 2012 was a magnificent triumph.

Already recognised for service excellence by Skytrax, the independent global aviation industry monitoring agency confirmed Qatar Airways as Best Airline in the Middle East for the eighth year and in 2015 Qatar Airways was also awarded Best Business Class Airline Seat. In 2014, Qatar Airways also won the Best Business Class in the World for the second consecutive year and World’s Best Business Class Airline Lounge for the second year consecutively.

Safety

Qatar Airways was the first airline in the world to pass the International Air Transport Association (IATA) Operational Safety Audit with a maximum 100 per cent compliance in 2003 and passed the test again during the two-year renewal period in 2005, 2007, 2009, 2011, 2013 and in June 2015.

The audit was set up to standardise and rationalise a number of safety and security procedures carried out by individual airlines for the purpose of code sharing. Qatar Airways was assessed on flight and ground operations, aircraft engineering, maintenance, operational security, cabin operations and management systems.

Hamad International Airport

Hamad International Airport commenced commercial operations in April 2014 at a cost of US$15.5 billion and with an initial capacity of 30 million passengers a year. Once fully developed beyond 2015, the airport is expected to handle up to 50 million passengers a year. One of the project’s key features is that 60 per cent of the site is built on reclaimed land from the Arabian Gulf.

Qatar Airways is managing the new airport, designed to help shape Doha as a key regional and global aviation hub.

Passenger Traffic

During the 2003/2004 financial year, Qatar Airways carried 3.3m passengers, up 35% on the previous 12-month period. During the 2004/2005 financial year, passenger numbers rose sharply to 4.6m, while the figure topped 6 million in the 12-month 2005/06 financial period. The figure surpassed the 8 million passenger mark for the 2006/07 financial year and hit around 10 million passengers for the 2007/08 financial period.

The airline exceeded 12 million passengers for the 2008/09 financial year. In the financial year

2009/10, the airline exceeded 14 million passengers. During the 2010/11 financial year, the airline carried over 16 million passengers worldwide, hit over 17 million passengers in 2011/2012, and surpassed 18 million during the 2012/13 financial period. Qatar Airways exceeded over 26 million passengers in 2014/15.

Corporate Social Responsibility

As an industry leader, Qatar Airways and its group of companies strive to lead the charge towards environmental sustainability and corporate social responsibility. The airline is one of the leaders in new-generation fuel research and gives back to the communities in which we serve.

Qatar Airways goes beyond the current industry best practices for fuel and environmental management and is making a serious effort to ensure a sustainable future for the airline, its staff and its neighbourhoods.

In 2012, Qatar Airways negotiated a worldwide partnership with Educate A Child (EAC), a global education programme launched by Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser of Qatar. EAC is designed to address the plight of 61 million out-of-school children around the world, who are denied access to quality primary education.


Web: www.qatarairways.com

Seven Wellness Destination Offerings from Health and Fitness Travel

In a continuous search for the best wellness holiday spots around the globe, Health and Fitness Travel, the leading experts in healthy holidays worldwide, have teamed up with new partners to give you even more healthy retreat experiences in 2016. Choose from their seven hottest wellness destinations, from a tropical surf getaway on the exotic island of Bali to a tennis fanatic's dream active escape in sunny Florida. With their own special features and niches, each place can offer you a bespoke holiday to satisfy all of your well-being needs.



Bali: Komune Resort & Beach Club

Escape to a secluded volcanic beach overlooking a world-class surf break on the east coast of Bali at the Komune Resort and Beach Club. Relish in the beach and surf culture vibe as you connect with the adventurous, fun-loving and environmentally friendly team on this active getaway. Tone up with group fitness classes before cleansing with yummy cold pressed juices or centre your mind and body with yoga and relaxing spa treatments to follow. With stylish accommodation to suit all, from hip hotel rooms to spacious suites and lavish beach front villas, everyone can join in the fun at Komune.

Health and Fitness Travel (1300 551 353 healthandfitnesstravel.com.au) offers 6 nights from $1,825pp or $2,130 for single occupancy. Price includes full board, a wellness program, and transfers.

Thailand: Amatara Resort & Wellness

Anyone who's in for a luxury wellness escape should look no further than in Thailand's premium new destination spa, Amatara Resort and Wellness. Tucked away in the tranquil surroundings of Cape Panwa, this five-star paradise offers a grand 180 degree view of the surrounding coast. Experience a personal journey to your most vibrant self with all-inclusive programs from March 1st that revolve on fitness, relaxation, weight management and building better relationships. Relax by the spa with massages and holistic treatments before enjoying the stunning sea views as you watch the sunset in the comforts of your own private villa.

Health and Fitness Travel (1300 551 353 healthandfitnesstravel.com.au) offers 7 nights from $2,740pp or $3,315 for single occupancy. Price includes full board, a wellness program, and transfers.

Florida: Saddlebrook Resort and Spa

Known for its world-class accommodation and sports training facilities, Saddlebrook Resort stands out as an exceptional place to play and relax. Offering an extensive program that blends golf, tennis and spa, you are sure to enjoy a healthy holiday experience that will enhance your fitness and overall well-being. Let the entire family tag along the fun and excitement as Saddlebrook caters to tennis and golf holidayers of all ages and abilities. With a special teen spa service, young ladies and gents can also expect to have a rejuvenating experience.

Health and Fitness Travel (1300 551 353 healthandfitnesstravel.com.au) offers 7 nights from $1,945pp or $2,480 for single occupancy. Price includes breakfast and a wellness program.

Brazil: Kurotel Longevity Spa and Medical Centre

More than just a simple spa getaway, Kurotel Longevity Spa and Medical Centre offers man benefits to your health and wellness. Working with the philosophy of the European Kur tradition of preventive and rehabilitative medicine, Kurotel designed a range of wellness programs to boost your quality of life. From helping you defeat your smoking habits and cancer recovery therapies to weight control and stress management programs, this healing holiday and its caring team of experts will look after you and equip you with the right tools and knowledge to continue a healthier lifestyle even after your stay.

Health and Fitness Travel (1300 551 353 healthandfitnesstravel.com.au) offers 7 nights from $8,620pp or $9,255 for single occupancy. Price includes breakfast and a wellness program.

Turkey: D-Hotel Maris

Soak up the sun on a luxurious escape at D-Hotel Maris set high-up in the Turkish hillside. Overlooking the Aegean and Mediterranean Sea, you are never short of spectacular sceneries to marvel upon. Explore the crystal clear waters in the five natural beaches surrounding the hotel as you tone up with outdoor fitness activities including circuit training, beach bootcamp and guided biking tours. After a full day of action, wind down in D-Hotel's award winning ESPA and recover with rejuvenating signature spa or Ayurvedic treamtents and Hammam rituals.

Health and Fitness Travel (1300 551 353 healthandfitnesstravel.com.au) offers 7 nights from $2,010pp or $2,395 for single occupancy. Price includes breakfast and a wellness program.

Italy: Ti Sana

Once a noble dwelling in the 18h century, Ti Sana was carefully restored and revived into what is now known as an award-winning wellness spa destination in northern Italy. Find tranquillity in the retreat's serene environment and relax in the privacy of one of Ti Sana's individually decorated suites. Featuring a signature "Healtheatarian" wellness approach, benefit from a combination of organic vegan nutrition, fitness activities and holistic therapies. Modify your own experience as you choose from a variety of programs that focuses on different aspects, including sleep management, weight loss, anti-ageing, stress relief, and detox.

Health and Fitness Travel (1300 551 353 healthandfitnesstravel.com.au) offers 7 nights from $4,505pp or $5,005 for single occupancy. Price includes breakfast and a wellness program.

Portugal: Epic Sana Algarve Hotel

Set on the beautiful Algarve coastline, Epic Sana boasts spectacular views complimenting the retreat's cool and chic accommodation and offers a prime access to stunning local beaches. Explore your natural surroundings on a pleasant stroll in the pine forest on-site with cliff-tops in the background. An idyllic healthy escape, tone up with beach bootcamp workout, rebalance your senses with yoga, or cleanse your body with a thorough detox. Ease into relaxation with a top-notch spa experience in the Sayanna Wellness Centre offering an extensive range of treatments and therapies.

Health and Fitness Travel (1300 551 353 healthandfitnesstravel.com.au) offers 3 nights from $1,100pp or $2,380 for single occupancy. Price includes breakfast, a wellness program and private transfers.

For advice, guidance and booking visit www.healthandfitnesstravel.com.au or call 1300 551 353

Five of the Best of British Nosh

When it comes to British food, it is time to update your knowledge. The nation that invented afternoon tea is a criminally underrated gastronomic destination. From its signature fish ‘n’ chips to Michelin-starred establishments, Britain is packed with culinary delights guaranteed to suit every traveller’s taste and budget. And one of the best places toexperience the best of British food is Northern England.

Not convinced? Here's five picks to relish some hearty food and drinks with warm hospitality to match in Northern England.

Marble Arch, Manchester

Marble Arch, the flagship for Manchester’s finest microbrewery Marble, is one of the best places to sample top-notch craft beer – and especially the dry and pale ales Manchester is famous for. Marble Arch is the quintessential example of British pub culture – a feel good alehouse that is full of laughter, debates and regular ‘irregulars’. Like any good gastro pub, it also has a fantastic menu featuring lots of traditional favourites like a Ploughman’s Plate. So if you are ever in Manchester, make sure you head down and have a pint or two!

Where: 73 Rochdale Road, M4 4HY

The Free Trade Inn - Newcastle

With over 10,000 followers on Twitter, The Free Trade Inn is somewhat of an institution in Newcastle. Self-described as “an absolute dump” on Facebook, it is known for its down-to-earth approach and being one of the oldest and best-loved craft ale pubs in the area. Its stellar location makes a perfect spot for travellers – the up-river view to Newcastle is bulging with iconic buildings and bridges.

Where: Above East Quayside, NE6 1AP

Panoramic 34 - Liverpool

If you think Liverpool is only about football, think again. Over the last few years it has slowly and surely emerged as a significant cultural hub with a buzzing food scene. Current ‘it’ restaurant, Panoramic 34 is perched on the 34thfloor of the city’s West Tower, making it one of the highest restaurants in UK with a 360 view of Liverpool and beyond. For wine lovers, you will be delighted with its unparalleled wine selection.

Where: 34th Floor, West Tower, Brook St, Liverpool L3 9PJ

If you consider yourself a serious foodie, Northern England is a culinary destination not to be missed. Whether you are looking for a tasty budget meal, a fine pint of beer or a memorable dining experience, you will be spoilt for choice. 

Philadelphia: first World Heritage City in the United States

Mayor Michael A. Nutter, Alan Greenberger, Deputy Mayor for Economic Development and Commerce Director, and the Global Philadelphia Association announced that the City of Philadelphia has become the first World Heritage City in the United States, formally receiving the designation this evening through a vote taken by the XIII World Congress of the Organization of World Heritage Cities in Arequipa, Peru. The designation comes as the result of a two-year campaign and is expected to enhance the City’s international stature and provide a new growth engine to drive tourism and commerce in the region.

“Today marks the start of a new and exciting chapter in the history of Philadelphia, which is proud to become the first World Heritage City in the United States,” said Mayor Nutter. “As a World Heritage City, Philadelphia is being officially recognized on the global stage for its wealth of contributions to the world as the epicenter of American democracy and for its enduring commitment to preserving the unique historical and cultural assets in our diverse community. As we celebrate this milestone, the next step is to focus on the future and how we can optimize this World Heritage City recognition to attract more people to visit, invest, work, study and live in Philadelphia.”



Deputy Mayor Alan Greenberger and John F. Smith, III, Chair of the Global Philadelphia Association, led a delegation of Philadelphia officials to the World Congress that included Sylvie Gallier-Howard, Deputy Chief of Staff to the Deputy Mayor; Fernando Trevino, Deputy Executive Director of the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant and Multicultural Affairs; and Zabeth Teelucksingh, Executive Director of the Global Philadelphia Association.

“From its Colonial history to the present day, Philadelphia has rightfully earned its place as one of greatest cities in the world,” said Deputy Mayor Greenberger. “Becoming a World Heritage City is a reflection of all that we have accomplished and a confirmation of the fact that the best is yet to come as Philadelphia continues to evolve and transform itself.”

John F. Smith III, whose organization, the Global Philadelphia Association, has worked with Mayor Nutter’s Administration on the joint initiative since 2013, said, “Philadelphia is adding another ‘first’ to its distinguished resume as the first World Heritage City in our nation. This opens new doors of opportunity for Philadelphia while raising awareness of the City’s importance in today’s highly competitive global arena.”

Philadelphia’s strong case to become the first World Heritage City in the U.S. began with a revolutionary foundation – the fact that the City is the home of Independence Hall, where America’s Founding Fathers forged democratic ideals into the Declaration of Independence and changed the course of history to give birth to a nation in 1776. It is also where the United States Constitution was written and signed. Independence Hall became a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1979. In 2013, Philadelphia was approved as an Observer Member of the Organization of World Heritage Cities. Earlier this year, the World Heritage Philadelphia Executive Committee submitted an application to become a Full Member. Philadelphia, the fifth-largest U.S. city, joins 266 other World Heritage Cities in the Organization of World Heritage Cities.

“I am thrilled to welcome Philadelphia into the Organization of World Heritage Cities. Over the last two years, Philadelphia has made an excellent case and is very deserving of becoming the first U.S. City to become a full member of the Organization of World Heritage Cities,” said Denis Ricard, Secretary General of the Organization of World Heritage Cities.

At a symposium in Philadelphia last month, the Global Philadelphia Association and the City of Philadelphia invited more than one hundred leaders in the public and private sectors to discuss ideas and strategies that could be implemented following the World Heritage City designation. Now, these partners will develop and coordinate a plan of action in the months to come.

“As the birthplace of America, with its rich heritage of history, arts and culture and an ideal location on the Northeast coast of the United States, Philadelphia has so much to offer the world,” said Jack Ferguson, President and CEO of the Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau. “The World Heritage City designation is a great honor for our City. It further enhances the value of our global brand and will help to attract even more tourists and conventions to Philadelphia.”

Mayor Nutter and the delegation will celebrate this historic designation with a Toast to World Heritage PHL at the Independence Visitors Center in Philadelphia on Wednesday, November 11th at 4pm.

For information about the Organization of World Heritage Cities, visit www.ovpm.org.

Valentine's Day, it's not all chocolates and flowers

Wego explores Valentine's Day around the world


Love spoons, white chocolate and bonfires are just some of the origins of Valentine's Day traditions around the world.

Wego.com, the leading travel search site in the Asia Pacific and Middle East explores some of the more unique backgrounds of traditions for the day that the world celebrates love.

"Valentine's Day is steeped in history and tradition and has evolved in many countries to appear nothing like what our modern day notions of what the day is all about," said Joachim Holte, Chief Marketing Officer, Wego.

"In South Korea it's a popular celebration where the women are responsible for giving gifts from February 14 and continuing through to April," explained Holte. "It's not until March 14 that men return with gifts of their own to their partner. Should you not have a partner by April 14, South Korean singles sadly consume bowls of jajangmyeon (black bean paste noodles)."

Similarly, Japanese women give men gifts of chocolates, sometimes handmade, and the men respond with white chocolate on March 14 (called 'White Day'), as a result of a popular marketing campaign by Japan's national confectionery association in the 1980s, which has since become an annual tradition.

"It's all about chocolate in Japan," said Holte. "The shops overflow with some incredibly creative displays and in true Japanese tradition, each chocolate represents different meanings."

'Giri-choko' which literally means 'the obligation chocolate' is shared with classmates or co-workers; 'tomo-choko', 'the friend's chocolate', which is given with a bit more sincerity to closer friends, and 'hommei-choko', is for your beloved.

In the Philippines, weddings are better when celebrated en masse on Valentine's Day.

"It's become an annual tradition that the government, church or a charitable group, sponsor a group wedding in the Philippines on Valentine's Day, and not just because the country is more romantic than others," said Holte. "Mass rites are particularly helpful to low-income families, yet the yearly celebration now sees up to 4,000 couples join their lives together on February 14."

China has their own Valentine's Day, traditionally falling on the seventh day of the seventh month each year, which in 2016 is August 19. However they still participate in western traditions by exchanging gifts.

"There are some interesting reasons behind what not to give in China on Valentine's Day," Holte continued. "Don't give your partner an umbrella, as the sound of the Chinese symbol for 'umbrella' and 'breaking up' is very similar. Not advisable either to give shoes as a gift as it implies you are sending your love away."

Similarly to China, in Malaysia, they celebrate Valentine's Day on the seventh day of the seventh month, and single women have been known to write their phone numbers on an orange, then cast them into a river hoping their love, and destiny, will find them.

In India, Valentine's Day is a more recent phenomenon, although in West Bengal the festival of Saraswati, which is more closely aligned with learning, is seen as a modern day version of Valentine's Day by the young.

"While rarely acknowledged as a public holiday, a traditional celebration of love and romance is adapted through a variety of translations around the world, even if not always on February 14," Holte said. "Celebrations can be traced back to Roman times and were not originally linked to romance, but instead connects the Saint to the beginning of spring."

"In fact the UK has a wide variety of regional traditions honouring St Valentine. One of the oldest traditions, dating back to the 17th century, is the presenting of an intricately carved Lovespoon in Wales, decorated with symbols of love to show their intended their amazing skills."

"Revenge was the order of the day in France where jilted women would gather to burn images and hurl abuse in huge bonfires. The aggressive ritual became a little too much for the French government who eventually banned the tradition."

Today's singles can take heart, as opportunities now abound on Valentine's Day to find a perfect match.

"If you're single, this can be one of the best times to take a trip," said Holte. "Travel can be one of the most romantic experiences you can undertake and many cities around the world now hold extravagant events for those who are single on Valentine's Day."

London, New York and Sydney in particular are hotspots for exclusive single parties attended by hundreds.

"You never know who you might be seated next to on the plane, bump into at the baggage carousel, or ask for directions," said Holte in conclusion "Travel and romance go hand in hand."

For more information, visit http://www.wego.com/about.

www.wego.com/news

Australian Stories

		6 ways to cruise around Australia
		Australia has a special connection to the water through its many rivers, reefs and harbours. Cruising is an excellent way to discover the country’s iconic aquatic and coastal destinations and experience the Australian way of life. Spot wildlife as your cruise along small inland rivers, or discover small port towns along the coast line with the help of this guide on Australia.com.
		The Australian Ballet announces 2016 season
		Inspired by the theme of transformation, The Australian Ballet’s 2016 season features both classic and contemporary works including the Australian premiere of the Nijinsky masterpiece, Coppélia, Swan Lake and Romeo and Juliet. The calendar of events starts in Brisbane this February and travels to Melbourne, Sydney and Adelaide throughout the year. Find out more here.
		Killer Whale Season now on in Western Australia
		Bremer Canyon is home to the largest pod of Killer Whales in the southern hemisphere with up to 100 killer whales coming out to play in February and March. Join a Killer Whale Expedition which runs daily from Bremer Bay, where you can witness this unique phenomenon and spot other marine animals including seabirds, dolphins, sharks, tuna and seals. Find out more here.

Off the Beaten Track: Ten Things to do in Tuvalu

Tuvalu is considered one of the smaller 'off the beaten track' type destinations in the South Pacific and a recent traveler's blog published by the South Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO) offers travelers an insight into 'ten things to do' on timeless Tuvalu.

The traveler's blog is a result of a travel familiarization initiative funded by the European Union to facilitate the production of travel blogs and articles to assist the tourism industry in Tuvalu recover following the severe tropical cyclone Pam, which struck Tuvalu in March 2015.

Australian travel writer Louise Southerden visited Tuvalu and captured in the traveler's blog some interesting discoveries about her visit to one of the most remote nations in the world.

SPTO Chief Executive, Ilisoni Vuidreketi, said the articles written by Louise Southerden of Australia provide wonderful insights into travel in Tuvalu.

“We thought it best to send a travel writer to Tuvalu to experience for herself the different tourism activities on the ground because we have noted that travelers enjoy stories based on real time experiences.”

“The blog on 'Ten things to do in Tuvalu' is a well written piece that provides an 'off the beaten track' experience that one would only find in Tuvalu and that's what makes this timeless paradise unique.”

“We are pleased to be able to offer travelers to Tuvalu an insight into what they can find and do and we believe that this will help tourists choose the island as one of the must-see and visit island destinations in the world.”

The traveler's blog can be found at www.spto.org/blogs/item/4261-10-things-to-do-in-tuvalu