Turbulence October 2014

OCTOBER 2014

TURBULENCE

FINALIS T 2013 & 2014

2 for 1 OFFER SEE INSIDE PAGE 6

AFRICA

THE NEXT HOT DESTINATION

STAY

SOUTH YARRA

FROM THE

FLIGHT DECK

TRAVEL INFORMATION AND INDUSTRY NEWS

THE SEAN SIMMONS TEAM OF TRAVEL EXPERTS P P F A

+61 3 9429 3294 (local) 1300 391 590 (interstate) +61 3 9429 3293 Suite 6, 53 Coppin Street Richmond VIC 3121

E enquiries@seanstravel.com.au W seansimmons travel.com.au ABN 48153795129 | AFTA 10216 | ATAS A10436 | IATA 02-3-6275-4 TURBULENCE OCTOBER 2014 | 1

“ The world is a book, and those who do not travel, read only a page”

2 | TURBULENCE OCTOBER 2014

Saint Augustine

THIS ISSUE 5 FROM THE EDITOR

Safari Africa 6 2-for-1 Africa SALE!

If Africa is on your bucket list, then now is the time to tick it off

EXCLUSIVE DEALS 11

Oaks Pinnacle, South Yarra

From only $139 Per night

FLIGHT DECK 14

Travel information & Industry news

12 World Events

Don’t let fear stop you from seeing the world

16 Sean’s Travel Tips

To make your journey a little easier

19 Planet of the Apps

Packpoint Travel Packing List

20 HOT FARES

THIS MONTHS BEST FARES

22 PLANE SELFIES SET TO TAKE OFF

A light hearted look at the travel selfie

Annoying passengers 24 The top 7

Sean simmons recommends 27 The little black dress group

26 To recline or not recline

The debate continues

28 ROW 75

Articles of interest

30 calendar

Worldwide events

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weLCOME TO THE OCTOBER ISSUE Greetings and welcome to the October edition of Turbulence – a fresh new look, evolving from a newsletter into a full scale travel magazine! A huge thank you to our editing and design team for their tireless effort is making this project a reality.

FROM THE EDITOR

The current EBOLA VIRUS outbreak in West Africa, whilst a concern, is, in fact, limited to 4 countries; Democratic Republic of Congo, Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone.

Senegal and Nigeria have been declared free of the virus.

Unfortunately, the speed at which the “hype” is transmitted around the world, (by social media, television and news reporters,) creates an unwarranted reaction of fear of the entire African continent.

Travel to 95% of Africa is safe, and Ebola Virus free. Of course, we need to closely monitor the situation, however, infections have been reported in the USA, Britain, and Spain, and suspected cases in other European countries, so should the fear and panic extend to these countries too?

We think not!!

Interest in African Safaris is really heating up right now.

In this issue we feature a sample of some of the amazing experiences on offer, and until the 4 November if you book selected tours with us, you can book a friend for FREE. In other big news, our online store is now OPEN and we are offering FREE SHIPPING* across the entire luggage range.

That’s right – our entire Antler luggage range to your door – FREE. Visit shop.seansimmonstravel.com.au and check it out today!

We are developing new sections of the newsletter each month with reviews, news, travel tips and money matters and so much more. We hope you enjoy the new look and if there is anything you would like to see more of, please feel free to email your suggestions to info@seanstravel.com.au Happy reading.

*Free shipping available to all Australian capital cities and major urban centres.

Free shipping applies to the Antler range of luggage including Business 100. For rural shipping, please contact shop@seanstravel.com.au for a quotation.

TURBULENCE OCTOBER 2014 | 5

SAFARI AFRICA 2 for 1

SALE

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If Africa is on your bucket list, then now is the time to tick it off. We’ve just released a 2-for-1 Africa SALE!

With some of the world’s most enthralling game viewing and vast stretches of unspoiled landscapes, Africa has something to suit all tastes.

From the beautifully secluded desert landscapes of the Namib Desert and the Sahara to vast open grasslands, sun-drenched beaches, dramatic mountain ranges and rainforest; overland trips and safaris in Africa are one big adventure waiting to happen!

Meet the locals and experience traditional tribal African hospitality, take a trekking trip through the continent’s treasured game reserves, track gorillas in the jungles of Uganda, see the fabled Big Five or simply laze the day away on the beaches of Zanzibar.

Africa has such an enormous selection of exciting things to see and do that even the most seasoned travellers cannot fail to be captivated!

Read on for more details and prepare for a walk on the wild side!

For all ENQUIRIES email enquiries@seanstravel.com.au TURBULENCE OCTOBER 2014 | 7

SAFARI AFRICA NEED FLIGHTS? Doing the Falls to Jo’Burg Tour?

Check out these fantastic fares to Victoria Falls flying Virgin Australia & South African Airways, via Perth and Johannesburg to Victoria Falls, and returning direct from Johannesburg to Perth and onwards to your home port Economy Class fares per person AUD* Ex Melbourne Ex Sydney Ex Brisbane Ex Adelaide Ex Perth

$1,798.44 $1,797.20 $1,797.85 $1,799.90 $1,785.32

Virgin Australia from Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide or Brisbane to Perth.

South African Airways for all other segments. Tickets must be issued before 20 November 2014. Travel permitted 4SEP14 through 30NOV14 or 16JAN15 through 31AUG15 on the first international sector. Prices correct as at 14 OCT14 and are subject to availability. Credit card and booking fees may apply.

Doing the Gorilla and Game Trek Tour?

Etihad can get you there and back again with these great standard fares.

Economy Class fares per person AUD* Ex Melbourne Ex Sydney Ex Brisbane Ex Adelaide Ex Perth

$2,073.92 $2,599.04 $2,630.20 $2,166.63 $2,411.02

Or perhaps you’re doing the Gorillas in the Mist Tour?

Flying Etihad.

Economy Class fares per person AUD* Ex Melbourne Ex Sydney Ex Brisbane Ex Adelaide Ex Perth

$2,300.52 $2,875.64 $2,905.80* $2,392.23 $2,637.62

Some segments operated by Kenya Airways. Standard fares for travel 12 JAN - 31 MAY 15 or 01 SEP - 02 DEC 15 on first international sector.

Prices correct as at 15OCT14 and are subject to availability.

Credit card and booking fees may apply.

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See Africa up close and personal – and for a very limited time you can bring a friend with a fantastic 2 for 1 offer on UNIQUE OVERLAND AND CAMPING SAFARIS! Book one spot on an Overland Camping Safari with us before 4 November 2014 and get the second spot for free!

We are featuring a few of the 24 unique and exciting trips available.

Here’s just a taste of what’s available: Falls to Johannesburg – 12 days from $790 per couple* You’ll start at Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe and travel through to the world famous Kruger National Park, taking in the best of Botswana along the way.

Gorilla & Game Trek – 15 days from $1390 per couple* Trek through rich jungle in search of mountain gorillas.

Experience the beauty of Uganda, visit Kenya’s Great Rift Valley Lakes and spot game on the plains of the Masai Mara.

Kenya to Cape – 43 days from $2790 per couple* Embark on an overland journey across almost half the African continent. An exhilarating mix of game, beaches, exotic Zanzibar, giant dunes and activities that will get your adrenaline pumping.

Zebras & Zanzibar – 11 days FROM AUD $1,090*

Safari Safari – 11 days FROM AUD $1,790*

Gorillas in the Mist – 6 days FROM AUD $890*

Trip Highlights • Meserani - Reptile Park and Masai Cultural Museum • UNESCO-listed Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater - optional 3 day excursion • Dar Es Salaam - beachside campsite • Rift Valley Escarpment and Karatu • Arusha • Zanzibar and Old Stone Town UNESCO listed - optional excursion

Trip Highlights • Nakuru and Lake Nakuru National Park, famous for its flocks of pink flamingos. Meet the children of the East Africa Mission Organisation.

• Rift Valley Escarpment • UNESCO Listed Ngorongoro Crater, a vast unbroken caldera which is a haven for wildlife • Kericho and the Gusii Highlands • Masai Mara National Park and tribal lands • UNESCO Listed Serengeti, Tanzania’s flagship national park • Musoma - fishing town of the banks of Lake Victoria • Nairobi - Kenya’s bustling capital.

Extend your stay to explore the sites

Trip Highlights • Kampala • Lake Bunyoni • Gorilla Trekking - optional. Bwindi or Mgahinga Gorilla park in Uganda or Ruhengeri (Rwanda) or Parc National des Virunga (DRC) • Equator crossing

What’s Included • 6 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 6 dinners • 1st night dormitory accommodation at Kenya Comfort Hotel, 6 nights camping • Services of 3 person crew (leader, driver, cook) • Return ferry journey from Dar Es Salaam to Zanzibar • Arrival transfer from Nairobi Airport • Transport in fully equipped expedition truck • All camping fees and appropriate equipment • All road taxes and tolls What’s Not Included • International flights and visas • Sleeping bag - please bring your own • Optional activities including the Serengeti/Ngorongoro Crater 3 day excursion • Accommodation in Zanzibar • Tipping

What’s Included • 9 breakfasts, 9 lunches and 9 dinners • 1st night dormitory accommodation at Kenya Comfort Hotel, 9 nights camping.

• Services of 3 person crew (leader, driver, cook) • Park entry and game drives - Nakuru NP, Masai Mara, Ngorongoro NP and Serengeti NP. • Arrival transfer from Nairobi Airport • Transport in fully equipped expedition truck • All camping fees and appropriate equipment • All road taxes & tolls What’s Not Included • Sleeping bag - please bring your own • Optional activities • Tipping • International flights and visas

What’s Included • 4 breakfasts, 5 lunches and 4 dinners • 1st night dormitory accommodation at Red Chilli Hideaway (upgrades available), 4 nights camping.

• Services of crew (leader, driver, cook) • All road taxes & tolls • Arrival transfer from Entebbe International Airport on day 1 • Transport in fully equipped expedition truck • All camping fees & appropriate equipment What’s Not Included • Gorilla Permit and transfer fee: Please note that Gorillas often move across the border, between the national parks in Rwanda, Uganda and DRC, therefore itineraries often have to be changed at short notice in order to track the Gorillas in whichever National Park they have migrated to. For this reason the cost of the Gorilla Permit and relevant transfers varies, as do the applicable visa costs, dependent upon which country we need to travel into.

• Sleeping bag - please bring your own • Optional activities • International flights and visas • Tipping • Entrance Fees: Gorilla Permit + Transfer US $675 - 815

Terms and conditions: Tour supplied by On The Go Tours and subject to their terms and conditions. For new bookings until 4 November 2014. Tours are non-refundable. 2 people must book at the same time to take advantage of the offer. For travel until 31 December 2015. Does not include Mt Kilimanjaro Climb. Applies to overland, camping safaris only. Full payment within 48 hours of booking. Land only. Prices are correct as at 10 October and can change without notice. Credit card and booking fees may apply. *Offer does not include 2 for 1 on local payments or any on ground costs (inc. Gorilla Permit).

For all ENQUIRIES email enquiries@seanstravel.com.au TURBULENCE OCTOBER 2014 | 9

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EXCLUSIVE DEAL

Oaks Pinnacle, South Yarra Due to its popularity, this exclusive rate from the brand new Oaks Pinnacle, South Yarra, has been extended until the end of the year!

NEW FROM ONLY

$139 PER NIGHT

Located in the iconic Chapel St / Toorak Road precinct, Oaks Pinnacle offers boutique self-contained Studio and One-Bedroom Apartments. Gaining access to the heart of Melbourne’s CBD is a cinch with both rail and tram options virtually on your doorstep and of course you have all the shopping, bar, restaurant and nightlife options of Chapel St and the local surrounds.

To take advantage of this fantastic limitedtime rate, contact your Sean Simmons Travel Expert today.

RATES EXTENDED UNTIL 31 DECEMBER

Terms and conditions: Offer is valid until 31 December and is subject to availability. Blackout dates apply. A 24 hour notice in advance is required for cancellation. Credit card and booking fees may apply.

For all ENQUIRIES email enquiries@seanstravel.com.au TURBULENCE OCTOBER 2014 | 11

DON’T LET FEAR STOP YOU FROM SEEING THE WORLD

“ let go of the fear, and enjoy this incredible world we live in” 12 | TURBULENCE OCTOBER 2014

With the unfortunate run of airline disasters, the Ebola virus and growing civil unrest in many parts of the world, some people are becoming more hesitant to travel.

Pat Mesiti, celebrated speaker, seasoned business executive, entrepreneur and mindset growth strategist believes it’s no more dangerous now than before and some common sense and a perspective shift is all you need to stay safe and feel relaxed when you venture abroad.

“I believe our world has always had scary times but media saturation makes it so much worse now.” says Mesiti. “Yes there are some frightening things going on at the moment and I probably wouldn’t head to Syria or places like that, but you have to realise at any point in history there has always been dangers.

You can’t live in a cocoon.

You cannot live in a fort. If you do that, not only will YOU rob yourself, but you will give in to the gloom and doom of fear and live a pretty boring existence.”

Pat says he believes humans are designed to travel and people have to look at the actual odds of a plane not making it to its destination. “Through the media we hear about the big disasters, but thousands of planes take off and land safely every single minute of every day.

You have more chance of being killed on the road than in the air. People

are born with an intrinsic desire to want to explore.

It’s not right for fear to take that away.”

Mesiti himself was a nervous traveller until he read a book about the noises that happen on an aircraft. “Every time there was turbulence I would freak out, and then I discovered that turbulence is really nothing more than a car driving down the road and driving over a little bump. I was afraid of the noises so I read about what was going on in the plane. I learned to relax and breathe and actually enjoy it.”

Pat says as long as you stay safe, you should definitely travel.

“I really believe that a prosperous person wants to experience, to taste, to touch new things. I believe it opens up our horizons; it opens up our world view; it opens up ourselves to bigger and better things that give us greater understanding of culture and diversity. I believe travel adds incredible value to our lives and to those we love. The benefits of getting on the plane far outweigh any benefits of staying home. You get knowledge you never had before, you get to meet people you’ve never seen before, you get to experience

food and tastes and vibes that you’ll never have at home. And I believe that all these things expand our beliefs, our consciousness and awareness. They help us grow to be better human beings. So let go of the fear, and enjoy this incredible world we live in.”

Here are some travel safety tips from Pat, a very frequent traveller: 1 Stay away from hot zones. Travelling to places of political unrest is not a great idea unless you have to 2 If you have to travel to one of these places, don’t get involved with local politics 3 Be careful with water supply (drink bottled water if the supply is dubious) 4 Remember you can’t always eat the food the locals eat without getting sick 5 Travel with medication, antibiotics and first aid 6 Research your destination before leaving to avoid nasty surprises 7 Eat in clean places 8 Make sure your vaccinations are up to date for diseases prevalent where you are going 9 Make sure you have an electronic scan of your passport and any important documents somewhere in cyberspace 10 B reathe deeply if you get nervous flying – it really helps

TURBULENCE OCTOBER 2014 | 13

FLIGHT DECK

Travel information & Industry News Australia World’s Fourth Cheapest Country to Fly Australia is the fourth cheapest country in the world in which to fly, new research has suggested, with airfares costing just $US12.20 ($A13.06) per 100km. Among, the western countries, it is the first beating Spain at number 4 and US at number 6. But, it is India that tops the list as the the cheapest country in the world in which to fly - airfares costing just $US10.36 ($A11.17) per 100km. It is followed by Malaysia and South Africa, which claim second and third spots respectively, ahead of Australia.

second most expensive country is Switzerland, followed by Lithuania, Austria and Estonia.

A recent study compared average fares – not just for flights, but also train and bus journeys - in 51 countries across five continents. The cheapest country for bus travel was found to be Egypt, where journeys typically cost $US1.88 ($A2.01) per 100km. South Africans enjoy the cheapest travel overall, it claims, with airfares costing $US11.63 ($A12.45) per 100km, and the country having the most cost-effective rail network with train trips priced at $US1.88 ($A2.01) per 100km.

By comparison, the most expensive country in the world in which to board a flight is Finland, where you’ll pay $US138.90 ($A148.72) per 100km – more than 13 times as much. The

It outranked Albania which came as the second cheapest country to travel overall, according the Transportation Price Index, followed by Malaysia and Thailand in equal third spot.

Flying Reimagined, by Etihad From Sydney and Brisbane 1 June 2015

picked team of 13 men and women, who are all based in Abu Dhabi, have completed a three-week training course led by the head butler at London’s Savoy hotel.

Etihad Airways continues to reimagine flying. The company’s pioneering spirit and traditions of hospitality, drawn from its home, Abu Dhabi, have been harnessed to create contemporary living spaces in the air and deliver unparalleled comfort and service.

Etihad Airways has announced that its A380 service will commence from Sydney on 1 June 2015.

Guests will enjoy seamless connections in Abu Dhabi with a daily, continuous service between Sydney and London.

Also from 1 June 2015, Etihad will launch daily non-stop flights between Brisbane and Abu Dhabi on its new Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner.

Welcome to the world’s most exclusive cabin in the sky, where a truly unique and bespoke experience is delivered with complete discretion and limitless hospitality.

With a living room, separate bedroom and ensuite bathroom, The Residence

by Etihad is the only threeroom suite in the sky.

Etihad Airways has trained senior cabin crew members to become its first flying butlers. The hand-

Etihad revolutionises First Class with the First Apartment. More than a seat, it is a living space for the discerning traveller, spacious enough to walk around in. The First Apartment is upholstered with the finest Poltrona Frau leather and features a wide armchair and an ottoman.

The ottoman transitions into an 81-inch long bed.

The First Suite is an exclusive space where timeless luxury has been reimagined. Enjoy uncompromised privacy behind closed doors. Each First Suite has a personal wardrobe and space that allows you to entertain another guest.

The Business Studios are the embodiment of style,

14 | TURBULENCE OCTOBER 2014

simplicity and functionality.

The seat converts into a comfortable fully-flat bed of up to 79-inches. Relax on all ultra-long haul flights on special mattresses for bedtime comfort in complimentary loungewear.

The Economy Smart Seat is the ultimate in clever design, with a unique “fixed wing” headrest that will make the journey even more comfortable. The ergonomically designed seat also has adjustable lumbar support.

“Like all great travellers, I have seen more than I remember, and remember more than I have seen” Benjamin Disraeli

How Much Does Your Air Travel Add To Carbon Emissions?

to try to establish a global system for pricing aviation emissions.

A return flight from Melbourne to London creates a warming effect equivalent to 16.8 tonnes of CO2 per passenger.

The Team at Sean Simmons Travel, is calling on all of our travellers to offset their carbon dioxide (and other chemical) emissions, wherever possible.

For a passenger taking a return flight between Sydney and Singapore that figure is 6.2 tonnes.

Anyone taking a long-haul flight from Australia to Europe would therefore account for a significant share of the average Australian’s contribution to carbon emissions. For the year to June 2012, that figure was about 24.4 tonnes CO2 equivalent, compared with 19 tonnes per capita for the USA and 10 tonnes across the EU. Airline industry CO2 emissions presently account for about 5 per cent of the world total of anthropogenic emissions, predicted to rise as ever increasing numbers of travellers take to the skies, despite improvements in aircraft fuel efficiency.

Most airlines operate a voluntary carbon offset program, which can be accessed anytime prior to travel, and is your opportunity to make a personal contribution to reducing the impact on climate change.

We value environmental and economic sustainability, and will continue to promote and reinforce the concept of “responsible travel” as a major part of our Corporate Social Responsibility Policy.

Under the European Union Emissions Trading System, airlines were scheduled to start paying for emissions generated by flights into or out of EU airports this year, however American and Chinese airlines kicked back and the proposal is now in a holding pattern.

Negotiations are now underway in the International Civil Aviation Organisation, the UN body responsible for aviation,

Jump the TRS Queue at the Airport with the Tourist Refund Scheme App The tourist refund scheme (TRS) is the one aspect of international travel people most kick themselves over.

It’s a chance to get a goods and service tax (GST – 10 per cent) or wine equalisation tax (WET – 14.5 per cent) refunded on expenses worth over $300 made in the past 60 days.

There are those who simply forget or don’t realise they can claim it, and potentially missed out on getting a few hundred bucks back.

Two hours is ages to get checked-in, through security and to your plane on time, but the TRS queue is a bloated, slowmoving python that promises money but takes so long to deal with each person you end up faced with the choice of claiming your money or missing your flight.

Well the people at customs say that’s about to change, with the introduction of a TRS app and dedicated website.

Enter your personal and travel details, the details of the goods you’re claiming GST or wine equalisation tax (WET) back on, and how you’d like to receive your refund. You will receive a QR code, and can then stand in a dedicated express queue at the airport and present the code to a customs official to get your monies back.

If you’re looking to be filled with confidence at the new system, head on over to the TRS applications website and temper your expectations accordingly.

If you successfully enter your claim details using the mobile or web apps, you will be able to use a dedicated queue at the TRS facility and processing your claim should be faster.

The website was launched on September 1st.

The dedicated Apps are available to download though the TRS website The TRS app will be usable at the following airports: Adelaide, Brisbane, Cairns, Darwin, Gold Coast, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney.

TURBULENCE OCTOBER 2014 | 15

SEAN’s

TRAVEL TIPS to make your journey a little bit easier

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4 Tips to Breeze through Airport Security Gone are the days when you only had to worry about remembering your passport when heading to the airport for an international flight.

In the ever-changing global environment of travel, rules and regulations change regularly, affecting how we travel around the globe.

Whether you are a first time flyer, or have more frequent flyer miles than Richard Branson, it pays to know what the latest information is before you get caught out at the airport. Remember that the rules can vary from destination to destinations, so be sure to check for specifics in your destination.

As a general rule of thumb, here are the latest things you need to know about airport security:

1. Go Go Gadgets fly This is a new one that many people are not aware of, but travellers flying overseas will now have to prove that your electronic devices and gadgets function before you board your plane. If your tablet, mobile phone, e-book reader, laptop computer, digital camera, MP3 player or other digital device (especially those with lithium batteries) doesn’t turn on during airport security checks, you run the risk of having these gadgets confiscated and

also be denied boarding. A flat battery excuse will not fly here. You’ll also need to stash your electronic devices in your hand luggage. To avoid losing your gadgets and missing your flight, make sure your electronics devices are fully charged before flying and that the battery power will last for your journey.

scanner and stand with your legs shoulder-width apart and hands above your head.

Don’t worry; they do not see you as if naked. The scanner highlights areas of concern on a generic ‘stick figure’ on the screen when you walk through.

2. Take me to the limit

If you have seen an episode of Border Security or ever boarded a plane, domestic or international, you will be aware that some things are just not meant to fly.

Flammable items are a big no-no here, as you will be reaching an altitude where atmospheric pressure can cause hazardous materials to behave unpredictably.

There are plenty of signs at the airport to advise you of what these are, but generally a handy place to look is your plane ticket, as it will tell you what you can and can’t carry on the plane. Note that certain airlines may also have extra restrictions, so it’s best to check out the website or contact the carrier if you’re not sure.

It has been around for a while now, but people still get this wrong. Liquids, aerosols and gels limits are strongly enforced on all international flights.

Airport security screening does not care that it is your favourite perfume, or a 50 year old bottle of scotch you have brought for your dad. Each passenger can take in their cabin baggage liquids, aerosols and gels in containers of 100 millilitres or less, carried in one transparent, resealable bag like a zip-lock plastic bag of 20cm x 20cm. This includes drinks and dutyfree items, unless they are sealed at purchase in special designed duty free bags at time of purchase in the airport and accompanied by a receipt. If in doubt, ask the duty free salesperson if you can take it.

3. Yeah, look at that body Body scanner screening has been introduced in eight international airports across Australia, including Brisbane, Adelaide, Cairns, Darwin, Gold Coast, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney. This extra security is a quick process, where people are selected at random and asked to remove all items from your pockets, step into the

4. Things that maybe go Boom

7 TIPS FOR TRAVELLING WITH KIDS Traveling with kids?

Planning is crucial to make sure your journey runs smoothly, especially if you’re going overseas, where things can so easily go awry!

When the unexpected happens, being able to ensure the safety of your kids, yourself AND your TURBULENCE OCTOBER 2014 | 17

SEAN’s

TRAVEL TIPS Continued

luggage (including Captain America and Barbie) is paramount.

So here are some tips we have garnered to steer you in the right direction! Hey – don’t take our word for it, but trust us when we say, WE KNOW TRAVEL!.

1. Fly Direct Or Stop Over.

Breaking up the trip can be a great way to get two holidays in one go. However it’s all about timing, a short 12 hour stopover can work if you book a hotel day room at an Airport hotel to help with jet lag. Hong Kong has a great hotel within the terminal, Singapore also has sleep rooms that can hired.

Plus because Singapore Airport is quick to exit you’ll be able to find good hotels within 15 minutes of the Airport. Dubai after a long flight is also great for a stopover.

2. Airports Are Exciting – Get Those Window Seats!

Kids generally love airplanes, plus all the sights, sounds and smells of the airport. My son loves watching the wings going up and down, the baggage getting loaded and all the other planes moving around. If you have two kids, and there are four of you in total it’s best to travel in two rows so both of the kids get a window seat, saves all the screaming and arguing mid-flight! There is a great research tool called SeatGuru, where you can see the Airline seat map of your flight prior to check in – it rates good and bad seats.

18 | TURBULENCE OCTOBER 2014

3. The Inflight Entertainment.

6. The Customs Queue – Be Nice & Ask.

Check out the Airline inflight entertainment guides ahead of time. It’ll be exciting for the kids. Several of the Airlines have a parents/ kids setting to ensure they don’t watch anything inappropriate.

You’re shattered after a long flight, you land and see a huge line for customs… it’s not the best feeling!

The US is notoriously slow (get ready for photos and fingerprinting) and Sydney Airport can be really busy for early morning flights. Sydney to its credit is getting better with its self-service lines now available. However if you’re stuck in a nightmare line, it doesn’t hurt to ask Customs if they can help express you to the front.

You might not get anywhere but there’s no harm in asking, you might even find an understanding Custom Officer who’s also a parent.

Also we all know the kids love their gadgets whether phones or iPads. It goes without saying load them up with anything from Peppa Pig, Adventure Time, Toy Story or download kids Apps to keep the kids busy.

4. Order The Kids Meals Ahead Of Time.

Sounds obvious, but many people forget to order the kids meals ahead of time.

The last thing you want is junior complaining about an adult meal and being hungry the whole flight. The other great benefit of kids meals is they are normally brought first out, meaning they eat first and you can relax with wine and a movie… hopefully.

5. Get A Seat Near The Exit Rows – Make A Camp.

Now this could work either way. Sometimes being near the exit also means being near the toilet, which we all know is horrible as people queue near your seat and the odour is well, not nice.

However our last flight back from Singapore, our daughter found space on the floor and two other children the same age, they chatted and played in a little ‘camp’ in the space for several hours. Pure bliss for us, plus she was happy as she made some new friends.

7. ‘Hunt The Bag’ Game.

When everyone is tired and grumpy after 20 hours of flying it’s the perfect moment to keep them going one last time. Play ‘Hunt The Bag’ as 500 identical looking bags make their way on to the Carousel! You can also try the car game Spotto (whenever you spot a certain coloured car you shout Spotto) but for luggage.

Extra points for spotting red and yellow cases. Hopefully the kids are distracted and more importantly your baggage arrives and hasn’t gone missing!

Watch your pocket while TRAVELLING When planning your holiday trip, please consider these simple yet useful tips that will help to keep you financially secure before, during and after your journey.

1. Spread the wealth Carry money in multiple places to deter thieves. This could include hiding money in your luggage or having a money belt. You can carry a false wallet to give to muggers.

Carry small denominations of local currency in your front pants or shirt pockets for easy access for small purchases.

Separate your credit cards.

In many places, cards can mean prestige thus you can be identified as someone who has a lot of money;

Planet of the Apps

Look out each month as we showcase the vintage, the new, the cool or the just downright quirky travel related apps out there in the market today.

PackPoint Travel Packing List – more than just another packing list builder At the very least, we all know that one person who will either be leaving their packing to the last minute and / or is always forgetting THAT ONE THING (phone or laptop charger, contact lens solution, PASSPORT!). For my friends, that person is me!

Well, now there is the PackPoint Travel Packing List – a free and intelligent travel packing list organiser and packing planner for serious travel pros. PackPoint will help you organise what you need to pack in your luggage and suitcase based on length of travel, weather at your destination, and any activities you have planned during your trip.

Once your packing list is built and organised, PackPoint will save it for you and then you can choose to share it with your friends and family in case they need help packing too.

Never open your wallet in public areas or even in taxis.

Simply punch in the city you’re going to travel to, the departure date and the number of nights you’ll be staying there. PackPoint will organise a packing list and luggage checklist that takes in to account: • Business and leisure travel • Activities you plan on doing (fancy dinner, work, hiking, skiing, beach, etc) • If you have to pack for the baby • What you need for an international trip • The weather forecast at your destination • If you’re willing to repeat wearing basics like shirts and pants • If you will have access to laundry facilities

3. Don’t sleep on it

Premium features enable you the ability to link a TripIt account, sync your packing lists to Evernote and customise and manage your default activities and packing items.

2. Keep it on the down low Never access a money belt in public.

Do not put your bag to your side when you are taking a nap at the airport or in a public place. You might wake up with your bag gone.

It is very simple to use and the most effective travel packing list builder I’ve trialled so far. I’ve used it the last few times I’ve travelled and much to everyone’s surprise I haven’t forgotten to pack anything.

The only downside is, at this stage, it doesn’t have the capacity to do multi-destination trips but as long as you’re travelling to similar climate zones, this shouldn’t be too much of an issue.

Try out the PackPoint Travel Packing List builder for yourself – available now from the Google Play and iTunes stores.

TURBULENCE OCTOBER 2014 | 19

HOT FARES HURRY! THESE WONT LAST LONG!

ETIHAD BUSINESS CLASS EARLY BIRD SALE!

amazing PRICES!

Business Class Return Fares From AU$

MALAYSIA AIRLINES EUROPE EARLYBIRD SPECIAL FARES Return Low Season Airfares from AU$

Flying to

Sydney

Melbourne

Brisbane

Perth

London

$7,436

$7,421

$7,309

$7,268

Rome

$7,022

$7,007

$6,896

Paris

$7,111

$7,093

Amsterdam

$7,013

Athens

FROM

TO

ECONOMY

BUSINESS

MELBOURNE

LONDON

$1,745.78

$6,431.08

$6,854

PARIS

$1,603.08

$6,212.78

$6,984

$6,943

FRANKFURT

$1,647.08

$6,195.08

$6,999

$6,865

$6,846

ISTANBUL

$1,546.68

$6,094.68

$7,031

$7,016

$6,906

$6,863

AMSTERDAM

$1,567.68

$6,115.68

Beirut

$7,517

$7,502

$7,417

$7,349

LONDON

$1,761.14

$6,446.44

Belgrade

$6,998

$6,983

$6,873

$6,830

PARIS

$1,618.44

$6,228.14

Dublin

$6,983

$6,968

$6,857

$6,815

FRANKFURT

$1,662.44

$6,210.44

Frankfurt

$7,093

$7,078

$6,967

$6,925

ISTANBUL

$1,562.04

$6,094.68

Istanbul

$6,984

$6,969

$6,858

$6,816

AMSTERDAM

$1,583.04

$6,115.68

New York

$8,136

$8,121

$8,159

$8,118

LONDON

$1,761.90

$6,154.40

PARIS

$1,641.80

$6,251.50

FRANKFURT

$1,685.40

$6,233.80

ISTANBUL

$1,585.40

$6,133.40

AMSTERDAM

$1,606.40

$6,154.40

LONDON

$1,750.09

$6,435.39

PARIS

$1,629.99

$6,239.69

FRANKFURT

$1,673.99

$6,221.99

ISTANBUL

$1,573.59

$6,121.59

AMSTERDAM

$1,594.59

$6,142.59

LONDON

$1,643.12

$6,128.42

PARIS

$1,500.42

$5,910.12

FRANKFURT

$1,544.42

$5,892.42

ISTANBUL

$1,444.02

$5,792.02

AMSTERDAM

$1,465.02

$5,813.02

SYDNEY

BRISBANE

BOOK BY 31 OCTOBER 2014.

For travel between 1 February – 26 September 2015 *Terms and conditions apply. Fare levels displayed include return Business Class low season lead-in airfare, fuel and applicable taxes per person correct as at 07 October 2014. Valid for sale until 31 October 2014. Valid for travel from 01 February 2015 to 26 September 2015 . Fare levels may vary due to currency fluctuations and are subject to availability, flight restrictions and booking confirmation. Blackout periods apply. Nil minimum stay; maximum stay is 12 months. Stopovers permitted in Abu Dhabi at guest’s own expense. Other fares available for travel to other destinations on Etihad’s global network and for travel at other times. Change fees and cancellation penalties apply. Credit card and booking fees may apply.

ADELAIDE

PERTH

OTHER DESTINATIONS AVAILABLE INCLUDE ATHENS, BERLIN, ALICANTE, ROME, GEVENA, MUNICH, NICE, MILAN, VIENNA, VERONA, ST PETERSBURG, MOSCOW, WARSAW PLUS MANY MORE - PLUS (YES IT GETS BETTER) - FROM JUST $10, FLY FROM YOUR NEAREST CONVENIENT AIRPORT (QANTAS FLIGHTS ONLY)

BOOK BY 20 DECEMBER 2014.

Travel between 01/04/15-19/06/15 and 11/07/15-31/10/15 Fares shown are LOW SEASON fares, between the applicable dates noted, HIGH SEASON (20 June 15 - 10 July 15) available on request. Maximum stay is 6 months. Changes permitted to return free, subject to availability. Changes to departure require upgrade to current fare plus fee of $120. Fares are non refundable and non transferable. Credit Card Fees Apply. Fares correct as of 14 October 2014 and subject to change. Prices include all airport charges, taxes, and fuel surcharges. Qantas Frequent Flyer points are accrued on most fares.

Please check with our Travel Experts for more information.

For all ENQUIRIES email enquiries@seanstravel.com.au 20 | TURBULENCE OCTOBER 2014

QANTAS AIRWAYS MEGA PREMIUM CHRISTMAS SALE!

Return Fares From AU$ For travel between 1 December 2014 – 31 January 2015

PREMIUM ECONOMY

BUSINESS

FIRST

NEW YORK

$3,298.72

$6,998.72

$10,991.72

FIRST ACROSS THE PACIFIC, BUSINESS WITHIN USA - DIRECT OR VIA SYDNEY / BRISBANE TO LOS ANGELES

LOS ANGELES

$2,998.02

$5,998.20

$9,998.02

DIRECT OR VIA SYDNEY / BRISBANE

DALLAS

$3,398.39

$7,698.39

$10,998.39

VIA SYDNEY AND / OR LOS ANGELES IN BOTH DIRECTIONS

LONDON

$7,595.92

$10,996.92

VIA DUBAI IN EACH DIRECTION

HONG KONG

$3,198.72

DIRECT

TOKYO

$4,098.99

VIA SYDNEY IN BOTH DIRECTIONS

SHANGHAI

$3,198.99

VIA SYDNEY IN BOTH DIRECTIONS

SINGAPORE

$2,798.22

DIRECT

BANGKOK

$2,798.89

VIA SYDNEY IN BOTH DIRECTIONS

$2,498.59

$4,998.59

VIA SYDNEY IN BOTH DIRECTIONS

NEW YORK

$3,298.84

$6,998.94

$12,504.84

FIRST ACROSS THE PACIFIC, BUSINESS WITHIN USA

LOS ANGELES

$2,998.14

$5,998.14

$9,998.84

DIRECT OR VIA MELBOURNE

DALLAS

$3,398.14

$7,698.14

$10,998.14

DIRECT OR VIA LOS ANGELES

LONDON

$7,994.48

$12,282.48

VIA MELBOURNE AND DUBAI EACH WAY - NO TRAVEL PERMITTED ON QF001 & QF002

HONG KONG

$3,198.94

DIRECT

TOKYO

$3,898.74

DIRECT

SHANGHAI

$2,998.74

DIRECT

SINGAPORE

$2,798.34

DIRECT

BANGKOK

$2,798.64

DIRECT

$2,498.34

$4,998.34

DIRECT

NEW YORK

$3,298.60

$6,998.60

$12,486.07

FIRST ACROSS THE PACIFIC, BUSINESS WITHIN USA

LOS ANGELES

$2,998.90

$5,998.90

$9,979.37

FIRST CLASS FARE VIA MELBOURNE OR SYDNEY BOTH WAYS

DALLAS

$3,398.15

$7,698.15

$10,998.15

VIA SYDNEY IN BOTH DIRECTIONS

LONDON

$7,989.80

$12,547.80

VIA MELBOURNE AND DUBAI EACH WAY

HONG KONG

$3,198.60

DIRECT

TOKYO

$4,098.75

VIA SYDNEY IN BOTH DIRECTIONS

SHANGHAI

$3,198.75

VIA SYDNEY IN BOTH DIRECTIONS

SINGAPORE

$2,798.10

DIRECT

BANGKOK

$2,798.65

VIA SYDNEY IN BOTH DIRECTIONS

$2,498.65

$4,998.65

VIA SYDNEY IN BOTH DIRECTIONS

NEW YORK

$3,748.97

$7,898.97

$11,897.19

FIRST ACROSS THE PACIFIC, BUSINESS WITHIN USA - VIA MELBOURNE OR SYDNEY AND LOS ANGELES OR DALLAS

LOS ANGELES

$3,429.49

$6,879.49

$10,903.49

VIA SYDNEY IN BOTH DIRECTIONS

DALLAS

$3,848.27

$8,598.27

$11,922.27

VIA SYDNEY IN BOTH DIRECTIONS

MELBUORNE

JOHANNESBURG

IMPORTANT NOTICES

SYDNEY

JOHANNESBURG BRISBANE

JOHANNESBURG PERTH

HONG KONG

$4,212.75

VIA SYDNEY IN BOTH DIRECTIONS

SHANGHAI

$4,022.87

VIA SYDNEY IN BOTH DIRECTIONS

$2,498.47

$4,998.47

VIA SYDNEY IN BOTH DIRECTIONS

NEW YORK

$3,579.41

$7,679.41

$11,704.41

FIRST ACROSS THE PACIFIC, BUSINESS WITHIN USA

LOS ANGELES

$3,279.71

$6,679.71

$10,710.71

VIA SYDNEY OR MELBOURNE IN BOTH DIRECTIONS

DALLAS

$3,698.49

$8,398.49

$11,729.49

VIA SYDNEY IN BOTH DIRECTIONS

LONDON

$8,040.14

$12,029.14

VIA MELBOURNE AND DUBAI EACH WAY

HONG KONG

$3,407.80

VIA SYDNEY IN BOTH DIRECTIONS

TOKYO

$4,198.09

VIA SYDNEY IN BOTH DIRECTIONS

SHANGHAI

$3,298.09

VIA SYDNEY IN BOTH DIRECTIONS

SINGAPORE

$2,798.71

VIA MELBOURNE OR SYDNEY EACH WAY

BANGKOK

$2,798.99

VIA SYDNEY IN BOTH DIRECTIONS

$4,998.99

VIA SYDNEY IN BOTH DIRECTIONS

JOHANNESBURG ADELAIDE

JOHANNESBURG

$2,498.99

MINIMUM OF 2 PASSENGERS TRAVELLING TOGETHER ON ALL FLIGHTS. BOOK BY 29 OCTOBER 2014.

Travel between 1 December 2014 – 31 January 2015. Travel dates may vary and availability is limited. Maximum stay is 12 months. Changes permitted to return for a fee, subject to availability. Changes to departure require upgrade to current fare plus fee of at least $400. Fares are non transferable. Cancellation penalties of at least $1000 per person apply.

Credit Card Fees May Apply. Fares correct as of 14 October 2014 and subject to change. Prices include all airport charges, taxes, and fuel surcharges and are for 1 person.

TURBULENCE OCTOBER 2014 | 21

Plane selfies set to take-off Whether you love it or loathe it, the selfie is here to stay With electronic devices now allowed to remain switched on during take-off and landing on Virgin Australia and Qantas flights, it is predicted that holiday selfies will increasingly pop up in-flight.

A study which surveyed almost 7000 Australians, revealed that Gen Y are the most prolific holiday selfie snappers.

(ED - hmmm its a wonder that the Y Generation can even be bothered taking selfies) Despite this, the survey also showed that older generations are jumping on the selfie bandwagon.

More than 80% of people aged between 18 and 29 take holiday selfies, with 32% of those taking between three and five per day when away and 12% can’t get enough of the selfie, snapping a minimum of 10 photos of themselves a day.

In the age bracket of 30 to 49, 62% said they take holiday selfies, which is a surprisingly large amount, while only 20% of those 66-years and over are snapping up the holiday selfportraits.

Travellers and celebs alike have jumped on board the ‘selfie’ photo bandwagon, with many ‘selfie’ trends appearing on news feeds, being tweeted and hash tagged around the world.

With everything from the mirror selfies to the latest hairy armpit ‘selfie’ trend, it was only a matter of time before cameras were ditched in favour of phone ‘selfies’ on holiday.

As a result of the launch of gate-to-gate use of electronic devices in flight mode, we can expect to see even more inflight selfies hitting our newsfeeds.

22 | TURBULENCE OCTOBER 2014

To mark the occasion, here are all bases for aspiring selfieexperts and a list of the top six must-snap holiday selfies.

The take-off and landing selfie:

Snap a photo with the airplane window and runway in the background, then tag your airline, for example Qantas.

The icon selfie:

Position yourself in front of an iconic landmark, and snag a shot with the coolest background around.

The feet selfie:

Lay by a resort pool or sandy beach, and snap a picture of your toes resting up in the ideal location.

The group selfie:

See how many of your travel buddies you can squeeze into one photo, just like Ellen at the Oscars.

The underwater selfie:

Use a Go-Pro or underwater camera to take a shot of you snorkelling or diving in beautiful, serene waters.

The season selfie:

Find your favourite local park and take a head shot lying down on the ground, surrounded by flowers, snow or a bed of autumn leaves.

TURBULENCE OCTOBER 2014 | 23

The 7 Most Annoying Aircraft Passengers 1. Talkative Tom

5. Funky Frank

Surely anyone who has flown more than a few times has had this experience. There’s nothing wrong with an occasionally chatty next-door neighbour, and I have met some genuinely interesting people while in the air, however I don’t need a three hour recap about your trip of a lifetime. That’s what your blog is for.

It would be great if I was referring to a 70s era band member rocking an afro but unfortunately I’m referring to that customer who has decided not to shower for a week prior to boarding. When travelling in a confined space a mutual respect for your passengers is surely a minimum requirement.

2. Charlie the child

6. Neville the Needy

There are kids out there who are perfect little angels when they fly. On the other hand there are plenty of children who are the spawn of Satan himself. These are the kids who entered the world with the sole purpose of kicking your seat, running up and down the aisles, disobeying every parental command and crying at ear piercing volumes.

Yes you are entitled to the services of the onboard staff and yes you can have another water followed with a scotch on the rocks. But you most certainly cannot consider the flight attendant your personal slave for the duration of the flight. Once the eye rolling starts, it’s time to ease off.

3. Fluey Fiona Another common flyer we all know too well from the office is the coughing, sneezing, spluttering mess of a person who has contracted some form of heinous flu. I wish them all the best in a speedy recovery but when they are seated next to me I can feel my immunity diminishing with every sneeze.

4. Wendy weak bladder It’s hard to work out what constitutes as a reasonable amount of toilet visits on a long haul flight, but when you need to climb over people every half hour, it’s enough to irritate the most patient of passengers.

24 | TURBULENCE OCTOBER 2014

7. Lack of seat etiquette Eddie This one you might consider this the most offensive of all. Whether they adopt both armrests as their own or feel that falling asleep and lolling onto your shoulder in a drooling mess is perfectly above board, this is one neighbour who needs shoeing into line at the first opportunity.

“ I don’t need a three hour recap about your trip of a lifetime. That’s what your blog is for”

TURBULENCE OCTOBER 2014 | 25

To recline or not recline That is the question It seems there are two types of people in the world, or at least on an aeroplane: those who believe they have a fundamental right to recline their seat and those who cannot imagine anything worse than people who believe they have a fundamental right to recline their seat.

Recently, on United Airlines Flight 1462 from Newark to Denver, those two types clashed in spectacular fashion.

A female passenger became irate when she discovered that she couldn’t put her seat back because a man sitting behind her was employing a “Knee Defender” - a device that can force a seat to remain upright.

When the argument escalated to the point where the woman threw a cup of water at the man after he refused to remove the device, the flight was diverted to Chicago, where the two passengers, both 48, were escorted off the plane.

It’s a story, in a sense, about two people behaving badly. But it’s also about civility, public space, and yes, modern air travel.

“Who is supposed to yield?” is a basic question in any society, said Janie

26 | TURBULENCE OCTOBER 2014

Harden Fritz, a Duquesne University professor specialising in civility.

“When we live in public with others, we’re going to step on each other’s’ toes sometimes. Part of living with others is yielding sometimes, or thinking others should yield to us.”

As for the plane, Fritz believes that if a person were to demonstrate model plane etiquette, the passenger in front should turn around and ask the passenger behind if he or she minds if the seat reclines.

“Most people, if you ask, will say go ahead and lean back,” she said.

But what actually happens most of the time, says Pennsylvania man Steve Hansen, is that people recline their seats without asking. And for Hansen, who is 6-foot-2, it’s not a situation he’s happy with.

“I’m ashamed to admit it but I am thinking evil thoughts the whole time,” he says. “You’ve made this passive-aggressive choice to violate my space.”

Hansen will jam his legs into the seat in front of him “so they understand they are going into an object.”

He will occasionally speak loudly about his discomfort.

He believes that once

upon a time, when airlines were more spacious, seat reclining may have been appropriate.

“People should understand that a reclining seat is from another era - it’s like smoking on a flight,” he said.

“You just don’t get to do that anymore.”

Hansen is not alone - three years ago, Washington Post writer Gene Weingarten created a printable card designed to be passed to a seat recliner.

“I know you meant no harm in reclining your seat,” reads the card, “but doing so takes an already disagreeable situation and makes it even more stressful for others.”

Hansen believes it’s an issue created by the airlines and one he believes the airlines can help solve.

The pre-flight announcements should include a message instructing passengers to speak to the person sitting behind them.

“They should force the person who is actually reclining to have to confront the other person, but they don’t do that at all,” he said.

“There is no protocol so that of course becomes the problem.”

SEAN SIMMONS

ECOMMENDS

THE LITTLE BLACK DRESS GROUP The Little Black Dress Group is an exclusive network of like-minded, results oriented professionals.

LBDG is about community.

It’s about business leaders and entrepreneurs collaborating.

It’s about creating sustainable, leverageable and successful businesses.

This is not a meet, greet and quickly swap cards and walk away business network.

The LBDGroup is about community. It is about being able to sit down in a exclusive, unique and intimate environment and truly talk with other business people who may already inspire you – or making new connections whom you yourself can assist in some way with your own expertise and creative thinking. It is a think tank, a place for debate, inspiration, ideas and driving change. It’s a place for connection, business opportunity, partnership creation and business development. LBDGroup is about group mentoring, education, developing a success mindset, support in achieving your business goals and net-weaving for growth and success.

LBDGroup is not for everyone and nor are we the right fit for everyone. Our members are business leaders, entrepreneurs and change makers who are committed to building success for their own and each others businesses through sharing connections, knowledge, learnings and insight.

Members of the LBDGroup are cross functional and cross industry. Lawyers, bankers, marketing and PR professionals, media, mining, construction, designers, jewellery, fashion, philanthropists, nonfor-profit, human resources, fitness, health and well-being, property, sales, speakers and authors to name but a few. And with a fabulous mix of corporates to own business it is the quality of conversations that we have that make us so different.

Our members are described as fearless, funny, fiercely intelligent, outspoken, thoughtful, proud of their achievements (and rightly so), forthright – but there is one word that resonates from all newcomers, but doesn’t surprise those who have been within the community for longer than a few months.

Click here to join our community.

Sean Simmons Travel is extremely proud to be the Little Black Dress Group’s official Travel Agency Partner, and looks forward to being a long lasting community member.

TURBULENCE OCTOBER 2014 | 27

ROW 75

Articles of interest 4 ways foodie culture impacts our travel The newly fervent foodie culture has truly defined the last decade, primarily fueled by a big increase in coverage across all media. So it was inevitable that airlines would soon come around to using food experiences as a differentiator.

Following that trend, airlines have jumped on board in an effort to provide a culinary offering that at least attempts to match what travellers enjoy at home.

Here are a few of the most recent roll-outs of interest to any traveller interested in enhanced culinary experience. Hungry? Then read on.

Pop-ups at 35,000 feet The pop-up concept has changed the way we eat by allowing chefs the creative license of a limited run in a temporary space.

There’s nothing more limited than a flight from point A to point B, and SWISS has laid claim to be one of the first airline pop-ups. The airline has hired Michelinstarred Swiss Chef Andreas Caminada, of Schauenstein Schloss, to create a meal for passengers traveling in SWISS first, business and even economy on November 21 from Zurich to New York. schauenstein.ch The Chef will bring his own crew from his restaurant 28 | TURBULENCE OCTOBER 2014

to cook in the pop-up galley. This means that the kitchen staff will personally serve the one-off creation to the flight’s passengers.

Providing this personalized culinary experience can also build demand for a specific routing – for example, a Chef could be brought in each week on one route to serve a temporary pop-up meal to travellers, creating a brand-new route differentiator for foodiefocused airlines.

menu on flights from Atlanta to Paris, London-Heathrow, Amsterdam and Frankfurt includes African squash soup, Sunburst Trout Farms smoked trout, and Gulf shrimp with heirloom white grits, among others. Certain flights will feature meals created by Chef Hopkins, while other routes headed south will come from Miami Chef Michelle Bernstein.

On domestic flights in first class the fare is not as high falutin’, but still satisfying.

Would you alter your travel plans to get a pop-up meal on-board a flight?

Or…a picnic, perhaps?

caminada-swiss.com/en Delta’s farm-to-tray movement If there’s one airline that is pursuing a pure path straight into the heart of foodie heaven, it’s Delta.

Earlier this year Delta enlisted top Atlanta chef Linton Hopkins (Restaurant Eugene, Holeman & Finch) to deliver on a “farm-totray” ecosystem, where each ingredient is sourced in the vicinity of the Atlanta airport from small purveyors.

The idea here is that airline food must also adhere to local, smallbatch principles in order to support the surrounding vendors and farms. For flights originating outside of the Atlanta hub, chefs are encouraged to consider the local environment when designing menus.

For the fall, the first class

London’s Heathrow airport is experimenting with a way to boost business in-terminal by providing passengers an easy way to grab a meal to eat on-board. The initiative provides passengers with a very-British-sounding “bespoke hamper,” a nondisposable cooler bag containing a variety of meal items, which can be ordered from all 188 food vendors at the airport.

49 brands are participating in this foodie-forward service, meaning that transiting passengers now grab a wide selection of on-the-go food options. By providing a means to deliver a culinary experience onboard, the airport is slicing business away from on-

board retailing and making food taste better.

To promote the new service, Heathrow has built a “pop-up park” in the brand new Terminal 2 (home to Star Alliance carriers) for travellers to sample the meals. So stop by and listen for the sound of birds and enjoy a full-on faux park experience. telegraph.co.uk/travel/ travelnews/11101681/ Heathrow-launchesworlds-first-on-boardpicnic-service.html Bringing groceries home In the “now-that’s-agood-idea” department, some companies are now targeting homecoming travellers with empty fridges. Passengers arriving into Finland’s Helsinki airport can now pre-order groceries online that they pick up at the airport and to take home upon arrival. This ensures that a traveller is able to avoid the dreaded “empty fridge hunger” syndrome that plagues many business travellers, especially singles with no one home to buy the groceries. tnooz.com/article/onlinegrocery-ordering-comingairport-near-live-finland

“In Paris they simply stared when I spoke to them in French; I never did succeed in making those idiots understand their own language” Mark Twain

Virgin adds new codeshare routes with South African Airways, Delta Virgin Australia has announced new codeshare routes with South African Airways (SAA) and Delta Air Lines.

Japan’s bullet train turns 50 Japan celebrated the 50th anniversary of its emblematic bullet train with several ceremonies around the country on 1st October.

When it began, the bullet train was the world’s first high velocity train and became the Asian country’s symbol of modernity following the devastation of World War II. The line covered the Eastern Sea Route, the main trade route of Japan which joined Edo, or old Tokyo, with western cities of Kyoto and Osaka for centuries.

On those inaugural trips, the trains achieved a maximum speed of 210km/h and covered the 550km journey between Tokyo and Osaka in four hours, unlike the conventional line, which took almost seven hours.

The Shinkansen now runs on the route at a speed of 270km/h, connecting both cities in two hours and 25 minutes. They are plans to increase the train’s speed to 285km/h from next year.

First, Virgin will add its VA airline code on South African Airways’ daily Perth-Johannesburg service, operated with Airbus A340-300 and A340-600 aircraft, from October 21.

It builds on two carriers’ previously announced partnership, with SAA currently codesharing on Virgin’s flights from Perth to Australian mainland capitals Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney.

The tie-up also gives Virgin customers a second option to South Africa, given the Australian carrier already codeshares with Singapore Airlines (SIA) to Johannesburg and Cape Town.

Both SIA and SAA are members of the Star Alliance.

Virgin, when it was known as V Australia, previously flew from Melbourne to Johannesburg, with the service ending in 2011.

Uber Targets Business Customers Car-booking app Uber is targeting business customers as it ups the ante in its battle with taxi giant Cabcharge.

Uber, which allows users to book private cars or taxis, has launched an upgraded app that allows employees to book trips directly onto the company credit card.

That’s a blow for Cabcharge, which has long enjoyed a virtual monopoly for business travellers, not to mention anyone paying for their fare by a credit or debit card.

“We are definitely bringing some competition, which is long overdue,” Uber’s Australian chief David Rohrsheim told AAP. “Choice is good for consumers and we bring experience from 200 cities around the world.”

The Uber for Business service lets companies use a single credit card for all staff bookings, with employers given a map of the route taken by employees at the end of the journey as a protection against fraud.

Matt Barrie, the chief executive of crowdsourcing website Freelancer said his staff had already been using Uber prior to the launch of the latest service.

“We’ve been using Uber for employee trips due to its convenience and reliability, and now Uber for Business takes it to the next level with reporting and employee management functions,” Mr Barrie said.

The company charges a five per cent fee on fares, which is half that charged by Cabcharge in most states, except Victoria where the state government recently capped the charge at five per cent.

Cabcharge estimates the Victorian cap cut its revenue 4.5 per cent, which contributed to a 7.4 per cent slide in its net profit to $56.1 million.

Uber, which launched in Australia in late 2012, links customers with taxis and ordinary drivers, who’ve passed certain security checks.

In addition to the taxi-booking service, customers can choose from either the economy option UberX, which Uber says is around 50 per cent cheaper than a traditional cab ride, and Uber Black, which is 50 per cent more expensive than a cab fare.

Mr Rohrsheim said typical UberX users could typically expect to be driven in something like a Toyota Camry, while Uber Black vehicles could include a Mercedes or Audi and the like and came with a “chauffer service”.

No cash is exchanged on uber bookings, with the fare booked directly to the credit card on the user’s account.

TURBULENCE OCTOBER 2014 | 29

SEAN SIMMONS TRAVEL WORLD EVENTS CALENDAR Indiana Pacers NBA Basketball, Indiana Fever WNBA Basketball, Indianapolis, Indiana November to April annually

Magnificent Mile Lights Festival, Chicago, 22 November 2014

L’Escalade Celebration, Geneva, Switzerland 12 - 14 December 2014

Independence Day, Beirut, Lebanon 22 November annually

Havana Jazz Festival, Havana, Cuba 13 - 20 December 2014

Cannabis Cup, Amsterdam, Netherlands 23 - 27 November 2014

Bahrain National Day, Manama, Bahrain 16 December 2014

PAN Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands 23 - 30 November 2014

Carols in the Domain, Sydney, New South Wales 20 December 2014

Christmas Fair, Frankfurt, Germany Late November and December 2014

Sunburn Music Festival, Goa, India 27 December 2014

Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, New York City, New York 27 November 2014

King Mango Strut, Miami, Florida 28 December 2014

Brazilian F1 Grand Prix, Sao Paulo, Brazil 28 - 30 November 2014

Polar Bear Swim, Vancouver, British Columbia 1 January annually

Golden Horse Film Festival, Taipei, Taiwan 6 - 27 November 2014

Prague Christmas Markets, Prague, Czech Republic 29 November 2014 to 11 January 2015

Tournament of Roses Parade, Los Angeles, California 1 January annually

Kona Coffee Cultural Festival, Big Island, Hawaii 7 - 16 November 2014

Florence Marathon, Florence, Italy 30 November 2014

Lord Mayor’s Show, London, England 8 November 2014

Vienna Ball Season, Vienna, Austria December 2014 to February 2015

International Finals Rodeo and Miss Rodeo USA Pageant, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma January 2015 TBA

All Souls Procession Weekend, Tucson, Arizona 9 November 2014

Berlin Christmas Markets, Berlin, Germany December annually

Mummer’s Parade, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 1 January 2015

Cairo International Film Festival, Cairo, Egypt 9 - 18 November 2014

Winter Festival, Moscow, Russia December 2014

New Year’s Day Concert, Vienna, Austria 1 January 2015

Country Living Magazine Christmas Fair, London, England 12 - 16 November 2014

Whirling Dervishes Festival, Cappadocia, Turkey December 2014

O Loan Lagoon Festival, Vietnam 7 January 2015

Ljubljana International Film 12 - 23 November 2014

National Finals Rodeo, Las Vegas, Nevada 4 - 13 December 2014

Sydney Festival, Sydney, New South Wales 8 - 26 January 2015

Contemporary Istanbul, Istanbul, Turkey 13 - 16 November 2014

International Festival of New Latin American Cinema, Havana, Cuba 4 - 14 December 2014

Thorrablot, Reykjavik, Iceland Mid-January to mid-February 2015

Day of the Dead, Mexico City, Mexico 1 - 2 November annually ING New York City Marathon, New York City, New York 2 November 2014 Melbourne Cup, Melbourne, Victoria 4 November 2014 Water and Moon Festival, Cambodia 5 November 2014 Loy Krathong, Chiang Mai, Thailand 5 - 7 November 2014 Pirates Week Festival, Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands 6 - 16 November 2014

Rock n Roll Las Vegas Marathon, Las Vegas, Nevada 16 November 2014 Arrival of St Nicholas, Amsterdam, Netherlands 16 November 2014 Toast Martinborough, Wellington, New Zealand 16 November 2014 Jewellery Arabia, Manama, Bahrain 18 - 22 November 2014 SUBIOS Festival, Mahe, Seychelles 21 - 23 November 2014 30 | TURBULENCE OCTOBER 2014

Chinese New Year Parade, San Francisco, California January 2015 TBA

River to River, Florence, Italy 6 - 12 December 2014

Dubai Shopping Festival, Dubai, United Arab Emirates January and February every year

Reggae Marathon, Negril, Jamaica 6 December 2014

Auckland Anniversary Regatta, Auckland, New Zealand 26 January 2015

Angkor Wat International Half Marathon, Cambodia 7 December 2014

Omega Dubai Desert Classic, Dubai, United Arab Emirates 26 January to 1 February 2015

Intertrust Cayman Islands Marathon, Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands 7 December 2014

Carnival of Venice, Venice, Italy 31 January to 17 February 2015