Airline Service Improvement Pays Dividends
Malta’s airline was once a virtual monopoly - and being an island in the Mediterranean it was guaranteed passengers.
But after years of having little competition, Air Malta has had to contend with a host of rivals entering Malta’s airspace in the lst two years and competing for the same passengers.
The number of people visiting Malta has risen well as a result, and fares to the holiday island have come down in the island’s main UK customer base, but new routes have also started in otherwise unchartered territories for Malta’s tourism industry, including Norway and Spain.
Faced with the new competition the airline opened new routes - notably Liverpool in the North West of England - but also cut her offers with various offers.
The most notable difference though for frequent flyers to Malta either on business or for Malta holidays has been the level of service offered by the airline, setting them apart from the new low cost airlines flying to the island’s Luqa Airport.
One example of the airline’s success at providing a quality service has been the lack of losing their passengers luggage - while some airlines are notorious for upsetting passengers by frequently losing their luggage, the airline has proved to be the best in Europe.
‘There was real concern before the advent of the low cost carriers that the established Malta airline would be knocked out of the skies’ comments one Malta travel site, ‘but they have approached the situation well and not only tried to match the fares, but gone a step further by improving the quality of service and opening new routes too - impressive.’
New official figures show that last year’s all important summer season had been the best in six years for Malta, reversing the decline in fortunes for the Mediterranean island.
The good news for Malta is that despite the increase in the number of tourists arriving on the island via low cost flights, the occupancy levels of hotels has increased from basic to 5 star, showing that Malta can appeal to all.
Further good news for Malta came from the figures for hotels and holidays with the news that while the number of arrivals from her traditional UK market rose by eleven per cent, the number of people from Germany visiting Malta increased by a third this year, adding strength to the holidays industry that has been reliant on tourism from one country in the past, and even Spanish tourists now visiting the island.
And Malta’s airline has shown that you can visit the island in comfort, and still pay less for the airfare than two years ago - a clear example of how an airline can provide a good passenger experience at a reasonable cost.
For flights and holiday information about Malta visit yourmalta.com
Included in the Malta guide is a choice of Malta hotels with companies like Expedia
Cyprus: An Island Paradise with Something for All
The island of Cyprus is one of the most popular vacation destinations in the Mediterranean Sea, attracting nearly two and a half million tourists a year. Whether tourists are eager to experience the culture of the island or just want to relax on a pristine Cyprian beach, the island has something for everyone.
A former British colony, the Republic of Cyprus gained its independence in 1960. Its nearest neighbors are Turkey, Greece, Israel, Lebanon and Syria. It is the crossroads of three continents, the Middle East, Africa and Europe. Historically, many different cultures have influenced and controlled the island nation.
The island was the mythical birthplace of the goddess Aphrodite, which helps to explain the sheer beauty of the island. Rocky coves, sandy beaches and some of the best resorts in the world decorate the Cyprian shores.
There are also championship golf courses and beautiful hiking trails across Cyprus. Snorkeling, windsurfing, scuba diving, sailing and deep sea fishing are all popular pastimes. The crystal clear water and gorgeous weather make Cyprus the perfect destination for a beach holiday.
The island nation is as rich with culture as it is with natural beauty. A trip to Cyprus must include a visit to Choirokoitia. It is one of the best preserved examples in the Mediterranean of a settlement from the dawn of civilization.
Also, be sure to enjoy the beautiful floors of the Roman villas with their mosaic tiles that depict the ancient gods and goddesses. The Tombs of the Kings, carved out of rock and Roman amphitheaters that still feature ancient Greek plays are also popular tourist destinations.
Be sure to view some of the beautiful Byzantine churches of Cyprus. Their colorful paintings and adornments date back thousands of years. Cyprian museums feature many other ancient artifacts from the island nation’s rich history.
Another big reason that Cyprus is such a popular travel destination is its cuisine. Cyprian food is made from some of the freshest ingredients in the world, based on culinary traditions almost as ancient as civilization itself.
Imagine fresh Greek herbs and spices combining with a hint of citrus and a splash of olive oil and throw in some of the flavors of Africa and Asia Minor. Sun ripened fresh vegetables will delight the palate of every person that visits Cyprian shores.
Start your dining adventure by ordering a “mezedes” at a Cyprian restaurant. But be sure to come hungry, for 20 or more dishes will soon be taking you on a culinary trip through the flavors of the island.
The island is also credited with creating halloumi cheese, made with both sheep and goat milk. It’s unique flavor is delicious with watermelon in the summer. It is also served battered and fried, as well as grilled. Enjoy it with some artisan bread and cracked green olives.
Cyprian wine is some of the finest in the world. Ancient Greeks, Romans and Egyptians coveted wine from Cyprus for its delicious flavor. Thanks to the sunny weather and mountainous landscape, Cyprian grapes make outstanding and distinctive wine. Be sure to sample some of the local varieties.
For holiday information about Cyprus visit yourcyprus.info
The Cyprus weather and for new visitors a Cyprus map are included in the details.
Seven Tips for Saving Money When Renting a Vacation Apartment in Paris
According to “Visit Paris Research,” more than 80 million tourists visited Paris in 2006. Of those tourists, 17 million visited during the months of October through December, which is considered the “peak” season. In other words, sleeping accommodations cost considerably more.
Tip #1: One of the easiest ways to save money when renting a vacation apartmentin Paris is to rent during the off-season. Paris’s off-season falls between May and October, while the peak season falls between November and April. Although temperatures can reach over 100 degrees Fahrenheit during the summer months, the gentle ocean breezes and close proximity to the water can help you stay cool. If you can stand the heat and humidity, you can save yourself a nice chunk of change.
Tip #2: Vacation with friends and share the expenses. Many Paris vacation apartmentrentals accommodate up to 10 or more people. These larger homes oftentimes provide extra amenities such as swimming pools, Jacuzzis, spas, golf courses, and community clubhouses. While you might not be able to afford to rent a $10,000 vacation apartmenton your own, if nine more of your buddies join in, you could be living the lifestyle of a celebrity for only $1,000 a week. Rent during the off-season and you could save up to 50 percent.
Tip #3: Cook at your vacation apartment rental. It can become quite costly to dine out for every meal during your vacation. Most vacation apartment rentals include kitchen appliances and cookware. Many include outdoor gas grills or patio kitchens. Fresh produce and fish can be purchased year round in Paris. Visit local Farmer’s and Fish Markets and indulge in a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, and seafood. By cooking just half of your meals in your vacation apartment rental, you could potentially save up to $1,000 or more for a family of four.
Tip #4: Rent from a private individual. When you rent directly from the vacation apartment owner, you have a better opportunity for negotiation than if you work with a property management organization. Property management organizations oftentimes are unfamiliar with the property and unable to answer questions about the property location or condition. You’ll want to verify references, conduct research on the area of the rental home, and use additional precautions to insure you aren’t being scammed. However, if you use common sense and trust your instincts, chances are good that you will have a rewarding experience.
Tip #5: Rent in non-popular arrondissements. Some of the best vacation apartment rental deals can be found in less tourist areas. An added bonus these neigborhoods are less congested and you can have more peace and quiet.
Tip #6: Invest in a vacation package. There are many travel services available via the Internet, or work with a travel agent to arrange a vacation package. Vacation packages can include airline, rental car, rental homes or hotel arrangements, cruises, sightseeing adventures and more. Oftentimes, you can save 50 percent or more by packaging your vacation needs.
Tip #7: Exchange your home for a vacation apartment rental. Home Exchanges are quickly becoming a popular option for people who love to travel. How it works is you allow an individual or family to stay in your home while you stay in their home. There is no cost involved, making home exchange a win-win situation. There are many reputable home exchange companies available via the Internet. Make certain you thoroughly research the company and understand their policies before committing to using their service.
Rita Borges, Managing Director, Paris Luxe Apartments http://www.parisluxeapt.com, http://www.parishoneymoonrentals.com
Scanning the Net for Vacation Specials And Deals
Finding low prices on vacations might take a little work but the cost savings will make searching for vacation specials and deals very worthwhile. There are plenty of travel specials offered by travel companies in land-based and internet travel stores. All of these travel dealers will find vacation specials and deals that will take people to exotic places in the world. With surplus travel opportunities to be booked, these travel companies are willing to deal on the accommodations and the routes offered.
The vacation specials and deals will include vacations in luxurious resorts that receive travelers year round. A ski resort can fulfill many vacation needs by giving travelers luxurious rooms that are filled with amenities that will guarantee all visitors that they will relax and unwind. In-room dining will include meals prepared by top chefs from around the world, and after dinner, drinks can be enjoyed in front of an in-room fireplace. Balconies will give vacationers the opportunity to reflect on life and the beauty of the great outdoors that stretches before them.
Vacation opportunities worldwide can be made part of vacation specials and deals offered by a travel agent. These travel professionals have the computer monitoring systems in place to find the last minute deals on travel that save people money on vacations. Other travel resources can be used to in order to find the lowest rates at the time of booking, but trained travel specialists care about saving travelers money because every travel deal booked will earn commissions that will increase the paycheck considerably, while saving travelers tons of money.
Many travel companies allow travelers to bid on travel specials and deals. This travel auction environment, available through online travel dealers might mean that the traveler would have to depart within hours of the ending bid. This environment is perfect for travelers with a set budget because every traveler can bid a price that fits the budget rather than paying for travel that is very extravagant. Online payments make travel deals a reality and bidders can notify companions that all systems are go on the travel specials and deals that they have negotiated.
More people get to take advantage of vacation specials and deals because the packages allow companion travelers to travel at no cost. The travel deal could include tickets to Major League sports events or include a ride in an airport limousine at no charge. All travelers needs will be met from the moment that they arrive at a hotel. The concierge service will know customers needs before hand, and in many rooms, travelers will discover that there is a cold bottle of champagne waiting for them to enjoy. Private house cleaners and cooks are possible with vacation specials and deals, which is especially useful for vacations in remote locations.
Vacation specials and deals are offered at major tourist sites throughout the United States. Gamblers will love the accommodations in Las Vegas, and at other times of the year, the poker players might enjoy a steal on travel that will take them to Atlantic City or the casinos on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Buffet dining is usually included in the vacation specials and deals offered by hotel casinos and resorts and travelers arriving by automobile can enjoy being pampered by hotel valet parking services.
James Brown writes about Shermans Travel coupons, Expedia coupons and Sandals Resorts coupons
