France Brings Back Border Checks: UK Tourists, Buckle Up for Queue Season!

Starting November 1, France is bringing back its border checks with six neighboring Schengen countries—think of it as a six-month reunion tour for the borders with Luxembourg, Belgium, Germany, Switzerland, Spain, and Italy. The good news? Not every traveller will get the full border experience. The slightly-less-good news? UK tourists heading to France are still in for a potential lineup. All this is part of a French plan to tackle security concerns, and yes, it’s sparking some “Schengen Surprise” moments across Europe.

UK Travelers: Get Ready for the Checkpoint Challenge

Whether you’re driving in from Belgium or hopping the Eurostar from London, the new checks could turn your breezy hop into France into more of a “brace for the wait” situation. The French government assures us these checks are “sporadic,” meaning you might skate through—or find yourself exchanging glances with the other travelers in an impromptu queue. And if you’re flying in? Well, don’t celebrate just yet. Airport security lines might get an upgrade from “long” to “eternally memorable.”

The Official Reason for France Brings Back Border Checks

According to French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau, it’s a matter of public safety and national security, with a particular focus on minimizing illegal migration and managing potential threats. Following in the footsteps of other European nations tightening borders, France is stepping up to bring a bit of “national security chic” back to Schengen, 1995 style.

What This Means for Travel Plans

Tourists driving in from Belgium, Luxembourg, or Italy (who just wanted a peaceful French vacation) could see some holdups. And if you’re boarding Eurostar? Maybe pack an extra baguette and a crossword for potential passport checks. It’s a return to the “good old days” of border control.

Get assistance with your groups and incentives in France, contact us!

So, What’s This Mean for the Travel Industry?

The return of these checks is like tossing a handful of pebbles into the smooth waters of European travel. Airlines, coach companies, and rail services might need to do a little scheduling shuffle to accommodate longer wait times at borders, which could mean more updates and delays for passengers. For hospitality folks, this could also mean a few surprises at check-in as travellers trickle in from all that extra border bonding time.

Quick Travel Tips for UK Tourists Tackling France This Winter

While the romance of France is still very much alive, a little prep can help keep it from becoming a long-distance relationship! Here’s how to keep your trip smooth:

• Allow Extra Time for Travel: With some passport control déjà vu back on the menu, add a little buffer time to your plans—no one wants to miss the first cheese plate of the trip.

• Monitor Travel Alerts: Stay plugged into the latest travel advisories for France and its neighboring countries. French police are just as likely to throw in a curveball at the last minute.

• Consider Alternative Routes: Fancy a scenic detour? Explore different ways to get to your destination (hello, sky-high view!) if your road or rail route has you in too deep with the border lines.

A New Era of European Travel: Adjusting to the Border Backtrack

This reintroduction could mean that other Schengen countries might join the border check revival, so keep an eye out for changing policies. And for those who cherished Europe’s passport-free days, this could be a cue to savor the “classic” lines and checks once again. So UK tourists, let’s embrace the slight return of red tape with good humor and a smidge of nostalgia.

The magic of France still awaits—now just with a slightly longer preview. Bon voyage, and may your lines be short and your pastries fresh!

European Sleeper Rolls Out Night Train: A Dream Journey from Brussels to Venice

Ever wished you could sleep your way through Europe’s most scenic landscapes while dreaming of your destination? Well, European Sleeper is making that dream a reality with its new night train service starting February 5, 2025. Get ready to swap your bedtime stories for stunning Alpine views as you travel from Brussels to Venice, with a few delightful pit stops along the way.

This trendy new route will take you through some of Europe’s prettiest cities including Utrecht, Cologne, Munich, Innsbruck and Verona. Running twice a week during February and March this is  ideal for those who want to get on the slopes or be carried away with the festive spirit during the famous carnival in Venice.

In the direction of Venice, the services will depart the Belgian capital at 5pm and arrive the next day at 2pm. In the opposite direction, departure from Venice will be at 3pm with an 11am arrival in Brussels, and both of these services should run twice weekly through the end of March 2025 – if you’re heading to Venice Carnival (which next year will run from February 14 to March 4), this could be your ticket!

So here it is – a luxurious (and sustainable) trip  that connects Belgium, Netherlands, Germany, Austria and Italy. Imagine falling asleep in Brussels only to wake up right at the heart of Venice; this would be accompanied by dining onboard while you enjoy a good nap. It’s like a European vacation in your dreams—except you get to wake up and enjoy it!

European Sleeper Rolls Out Night Train

The tickets for this enchanting ride will be available from September 1st 2024 onwards. You can buy them directly from European Sleeper. Expect a peaceful night journey with great views along the way. Goodnight!

Check out our marvellous DMCs in Europe who cater to the destinations on these routes. 

Direct Flights from Antwerp to Bolzano : Snow, Ski, and SkyAlps!

Ready to swap your city hustle for some alpine hustle? SkyAlps is here to make your ski dreams a reality with new direct flights between Antwerp, Belgium, and Bolzano, Italy, launching on December 18th 2024. Dust off those skis, folks – your gateway to the Dolomites is just a flight away!

Starting from mid-December, there will be three return flights on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays per week. That means you can now jet off for a mid-week powder fix or a weekend escape to the Italian Alps without any of those pesky layovers. What about travel time? Its only 90 minutes aboard a Dash 8 -400 turboprop plane! In fact you can find your ski poles deep down inside the closet within this span!

Once you set foot at Bolzano, you will be right in the heart of some of the most beautiful ski resorts in Dolomites. From Latemar and Seceda to Kronplatz and Sella Mountains; slopes are inviting you over there. And don’t worry about spending half your vacation getting there – these flights are designed to get you from Belgian chocolates to Italian pasta in no time.

In essence therefore, whether you know how to ski or enjoy after-ski events (to tell the truth we all just want hot chocolate), this moment SkyAlps has made it simpler than ever before for people to have fun while snowboarding. Pack your gear, grab your passport, and prepare for a winter getaway that’s shorter than your holiday shopping list!

Flight Details Direct Flights from Antwerp to Bolzano:

• Start Date: December 18th
• Frequency: Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays
• Aircraft: Dash 8-400 turboprop

Get ready to embrace your inner snow bunny!

Contact our fantastic DMC in Italy to plan your next group outing. They can help with a customised itinerary, accomodation and all travel details. 

Brussels Airlines increases Flights Between Vilnius and Brussels

For the winter season starting on October 31, 2024, Brussels Airlines will be operating five times a week between Vilnius and Brussels. This is in addition to the four flights per week it runs during summer thus enhancing the connection of these two cities.

Flight Details

• Timetable: This is wonderful news as it means there will be more flight son this route than ever. The services run on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays.
• Classes: Brussels Airlines have 2 options when travelling. There is business class as well as economy class. This gives travellers different options depending on their different levels of comfort during their journey. 

Better Connections

This move will bring about increased connectivity between Lithuania’s capital city and Brussels which is not only a major centre for business travel but also receives many tourists every year. All three Baltic states are served by at least one of Lufthansa Group airlines except for Lithuania where all four fly there.

Discover Vilnius Lithuania

Nestled in the heart of Lithuania, Vilnius is a charming city that seamlessly blends historical elegance with vibrant modernity. Its UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town is one of Europe’s largest and most well-preserved, featuring cobblestone streets, stunning Baroque architecture, and an array of cultural landmarks. There are many fun things to do here. Explore the old town, visit historial & cultural sites or simply savour the local cusine. there really is something for everyone here. 

Brussels Airlines increases Flights Between Vilnius and Brussels

This increase in flights truly makes travel much easier between Vilnius and Brussels. Thinking about your next group trip? Why not take advantage of these new increased flights and plan a trip to Vilnius Lithuania? Contact our fabulous DMC in Lithuania who are more than happy to put together a custimised travel itinerary. 

New Shanghai-Brussels route launched by Juneyao Air starting from July 3, 2024. The service is direct on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays to keep two vibrant cities globally connected and make life easier for passengers. At 01:55, from Shanghai Pudong International Airport Flight HO 1659 lands at Brussels International Airport at 08:15 local time. Return journey on Flight HO 1660 takes off from Brussels at 11:50 a.m., landing in Shanghai the following day at 5:05 a.m.

Highlights of the Shanghai-Brussels Route

• Cutting-edge Planes: Experience comfortable travel in Juneyao Air’s Dreamliner type Boeing787-9.
• Luxury Business Class: For an extra comfy journey, this class offers premium services and a spacious arrangement.
• Wireless Connectivity: Keep in touch throughout your flight to enhance productivity and entertainment.
• Efficient Luggage Handling: Smooth travel is accomplished by checking luggage directly into final destinations.

This expansion represents a milestone for Juneyao Air as it improves its network worldwide and shows commitment towards offering high-level services. Apart from supporting China-Belgium economic ties, the Shanghai-Brussels route also encourages cultural interaction and tourism development. Efficient travel between the bustling commercial center of Shanghai and vibrant European cultural Brussels can now be achieved easily by travelers.

With 95 aircrafts operating under its name and another twenty-four contributed by its subsidiary branch known as “9 AIR”, Juneyao Air has continued to expand in the aviation industry. This new destination demonstrates airline’s efforts to meet diverse needs of clients while providing strong connections across continents in the form of direct flights.

Juneyao Air will offer seamless trips between Asia and Europe. New Shanghai-Brussels Route Launched. 

Brussels is a fantastic place to visit and should certainly be considered for you next group trip! This City has many fun things to do with your group. Check out our fantastic DMC in Belgium to plan your next trip

Emirates  Dubai to Tokyo, Geneva, and Brussels Flights - 

Emirates has announced the addition of its latest Boeing 777 cabin interiors to flights between Dubai and Tokyo Haneda, Geneva and Brussels. For the first time, these flights will include Emirates' signature Premium Economy as well as the next-generation Business Class seats in a new 1-2-1 configuration.

Adnan Kazim, Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer for Emirates Airlines said: “By adding newly retrofitted Boeing 777s into our fleet mix, we are also providing ourselves with opportunities to bring in popular offerings such as Premium Economy to more cities served by this aircraft type within our network already and introducing more seat options across four classes.”

“Inspired by our flagship A380 in every cabin, our revamped Boeing 777 with enhanced interiors offers the best possible customer comfort. The redesigned Business Class cabin features additional privacy for customers along with sleek design touches and signature cabin finishes. Our investment ensures a consistent experience on all of them - both Boeing 777s and A380s.”

From July 1st, the first Emirates Boeing 777 will undergo a complete nose-to-tail refurbishment of its interior that will take approximately two weeks per aircraft. This includes refreshing the First Class cabin whilst installing upgraded seating options consisting of 38 new Business Class seats in a modernised 1-2-1 configuration, along with 24 Premium Economy seats and 256 Economy Class seats.

The new Business Class seats have been designed for optimal personal space and privacy which convert into fully flat beds whilst being each up to 20.7 inches wide with an average pitch of up to 44 inches apart. The staggered seating arrangement provides aisle access from each seat. Other features include touch screen seat controls, personal mini bars , large tables, storage areas for personal devices plus charging points; while there will also be a small bar area in the Business Class cabin for mid-flight snacks and drinks.

A total of 81 Boeing 777s are planned to be retrofitted by Emirates as part of its extensive programme. Further destinations will be announced over the coming months. The airline is investing over US$3 billion in revamping 191 aircraft across its fleet.

Currently, Emirates operates refurbished A380 aircraft fitted with Premium Economy on several routes including New York JFK, Los Angeles, London Heathrow, Sydney, Singapore, Mumbai and Tokyo Narita. By February 2025, Emirates plans to offer Premium Economy to over 36 cities with the A350 joining its fleet from September this year and more refurbished A380s and Boeing 777s entering service.

Check out some of the fantastic destinations we have to offer here

Austrian Airlines adds New Routes to Innsbruck - 

Austrian Airlines will increase the number of flights between Vienna and Innsbruck for the winter season 2024/2025. The company will also initiate direct connections to some popular European cities.

The Viennese carrier will operate as many as 19 flights a week on the Vienna-Innsbruck route starting in October 2024. It will additionally offer weekly direct flights from Innsbruck to Brussels, Copenhagen and Warsaw. Between December and March; Amsterdam services will be extended. Charter flights are planned from Innsbruck to Stockholm and Billund during the peak ski season.

Austrian Airlines adds New Routes to Innsbruck

CCO Michael Trestl said of this offer that it represents flexibility but also recognises its importance for Tyrolean tourism: “More frequent connections mean more choice for our passengers. Once again we live up to our role as Austria’s home carrier by offering more flights.” Marco Pernetta, Managing Director of Innsbruck Airport added: “The increased frequencies and new routes are a clear sign that Austrian Airlines continues to invest in our region.”

Lufthansa Airlines also has an expanded schedule for the upcoming winter season: There will be 11 weekly flights between Frankfurt – Innsbruck or Munich –Innsbruck which can be supplemented by using the Lufthansa Express Bus service which connects Munich Airport with downtown Innsbruck. 

Discover Innsbruck: A Winter Wonderland

In northern Europe there is a city called Innsbrook that sits in the middle of the Alps mountain range. This place is not only a popular destination for those who love skiing but also provides beautiful alpine scenery all year round which makes it perfect for people looking forward to having their souls healed by nature. As “The Capital of the Alps,” it features world class ski resorts where visitors can enjoy snowboarding as well as many other winter sports activities.

Best Things to Do in Innsbrook:

• Nordkette Mountain Range: This mountain range offers splendid views and excellent skiing facilities which are easily accessible from downtown.
• Old Town (Altstadt): Visit the golden roof, medieval houses or just sit down at a delightful café.
• Innsbrook Cathedral (Dom zu St. Jakob): A baroque cathedral with impressive frescoes inside its walls that shouldn’t be missed by anyone who loves art.
• Bergisel Ski Jump: An architectural masterpiece which also serves as an observation tower giving panoramic views over the cityscape below while hosting international ski jumping competitions on its slopes.
• Ambras Castle: A renaissance castle housing significant art collections and beautiful gardens where you can take long walks through enjoying every bit of nature’s beauty around you.
• Winter Sports: Axamer Lizum is one among several ski resorts close to Innsbruck offering slopes for all levels of skier ability; Patscherkofel or Nordkette are others worth mentioning here too. Ice-skating opportunities exist within the city itself along with snowshoe trails and winter hiking paths for those looking forward to more adventurous experiences during their stay in this marvelous part of Austria.
• Cultural Experiences: If you have never been there before then don’t miss out on any winter festival happening at Christmas time as they never disappoint when it comes down to Austrian food, crafts or festive atmosphere creation at its best

Flight Schedule Overview:

• Vienna-Innsbruck: Multiple daily flights
• Innsbruck-Brussels: Saturdays
• Innsbruck-Copenhagen: Saturdays
• Innsbruck-Warsaw: Saturdays
• Innsbruck-Billund: Peak ski season
• Innsbruck-Stockholm: Peak ski season
• Innsbruck-Amsterdam: Saturdays, extended until end of March

Need help booking your next group trip? Contact our marvelous DMC in Austria

Brussels Airlines Launches New Route to Nairobi

Brussels Airlines has officially launched its flights to Nairobi, the vibrant capital city of Kenya! The first flight (SN 481) took off on June 3, 2024 from Brussels Airport and landed at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. With five weekly flights, this new route is expected to increase tourism and trade between Belgium and Kenya.

Here you can find the flight schedule of Brussels Airlines.

The Kenyan Tourism Board (KTB) is excited about the positive impact that this move will have on tourism in Kenya. In Nairobi alone, European tourists already account for 29% of all arrivals with a total number estimated at 572,352 visitors per annum.

June Chepkemei, CEO of Kenyan Tourism Board said; “We need connectivity to bring people into our country as tourists hence we are looking forward to working with Brussels Airlines towards this goal.”

Brussels Airlines Launches New Route To Nairobi

As an Africa specialist within Lufthansa Group, Brussels Airlines currently serves a total of 18 destinations across Sub-Saharan Africa. Since the start of ticket sales alone over 50 thousand tickets have been sold from Nairobi showing how much demand there is for this new connection even before the inaugural flight takes place.

Dorothea von Boxberg, CEO of Brussels Airline expressed her delight saying "We see many Belgians that want to discover Kenya. Our first flights to Nairobi are fully booked. We offer many connections from Europe via BRU (Nairobi), which gives more opportunities for Kenyans to study abroad or travel around."

To mark this special occasion an event was held at Brussels Airport just before take-off attended by Dorothea von Boxberg (CEO Brussels Airline), Arnaud Feist (CEO Brussels Airport) and Peter Maddens (Belgian Ambassador) among others. This new link promises exciting times ahead not only for travellers from both regions but also in terms of strengthening ties between Belgium and Kenya.

Why not let Somak Safaris take the hassle out of your next group trip? Contact today to plan your next trip and make your trip to Kenya special. 

 Source

Brussels Airport Announces 9 New Destinations

Spring may be late but as anticipated on 31st March, the summer season at Brussels airport will open again with a number of classic sunny destinations and new routes. For this summer, travellers from Brussels will have direct flights to 178 destinations in 64 countries through the 64 airlines operating there. The other eight are Singapore, China’s Shanghai, Kenya’s Nairobi, Norway’s Bergen, Poland’s Krakow; Italy’s Bari; Romania’s Bacau and Turkey’s Gazipasa. Additionally, Brive-la-Gaillarde Vallée de la Dordogne Valley is also expected to touch down at Brussels Airport for the first time.

Like last year's three-month break millions of Europeans can opt for distant trip or stay near their homes using city trip or spending family holidays by the sea or visiting friends abroad: 178 direct connections all over the world with air carriers (among which six are new ones) offer something to everyone.

Useful information:

Summer season has brought 178 direct routes from Belgium served by 64 air companies. They have added another 8 new destinations including Singapore, Shanghai, Nairobi,Bergen,Krakow,Bari,Bacau,Gazipasa. Also they’ve got Juneyao Airlines,Hainan Airlines and Singapore Airlines among six additions this year.

Brussels Airlines will introduce two new services this summer: Nairobi and Krakow. In addition they plan on buying one A330-300 aircraft and three A320neos thereby enabling them to operate on a total of 88 destinations. This includes their presence in Sub-Saharan Africa that consists of eighteen cities and two North American centres. Moreover Transavia will park its third aircraft at Brussels Airport for the period.

United Airlines is planning a second daily flight to Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) therefore making four flights per day only from there. Air Canada has decided to serve more flights to Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) while Air Transat is putting on more services between Montreal Trudeau International Airport (YUL) and YYZ.

Air Arabia Maroc has enriched its Moroccan network with two new routes: Tetouan (TTU) and Rabat-Sale (RBA). Therefore, the total of them within Morocco is seven.

This summer Brussels Airport has a strong schedule that satisfies customers’ various needs both for Europe and even beyond!

China Expands Visa-Free Travel to Six European Countries -

Great news for wanderlusters! A new 15-day visa-free travel policy makes it possible for more tourists from six extra European countries to enjoy China. Starting on March 14 and ending on November 30, 2024, Switzerland, Ireland, Hungary, Austria, Belgium and Luxembourg citizens can enter China without a visa.

Switzerland, Ireland, Hungary, Austria, Belgium and Luxembourg have been added to the list of countries whose nationals may enjoy visa-free entry into China.

Reasons for traveling

In addition to business visits and tourism purposes ordinary passport holders of these six countries may also pass through China or visit the country within the stated period without any form of visa since they are going on transit or visiting friends and relatives here.

What is the meaning?

This move demonstrates that China is committed to facilitating foreigners’ visits by promoting personnel exchanges and building fast-track networks for cross-border travels.

Any diplomatic significance?

Yes. This year alone saw Chinese Premier Li Qiang promise during his meeting with Swiss President Viola Amherd in January that her countrymen would get unilateral free access into China. The pledge was part of efforts aimed at forging closer diplomatic ties between Beijing and Bern besides boosting economic cooperation between them.
China Expands Visa-Free Travel to Six European Countries

The new development is aligned with Beijing’s desire to foster worldwide ties while making it easier for people from abroad come here either temporarily or permanently hence enhance mutual understanding among different cultures at such times when there are higher demands for various types of communications across borders than ever before due mainly but not limited solely globalization which necessitates establishment many more international linkages even though they might seem unnecessary initially given current technological advances especially those related air transport industry where flights can cover very long distances faster than other modes like rail or road thus reducing travel time significantly thereby increasing efficiency levels significantly also consequently further improving quality standards globally throughout all sectors involved both directly indirectly related tourism being one them hence this move will no doubt benefit the tourism industry not only locally but also internationally provided other countries reciprocate by allowing Chinese passport holders enter their territories without having to apply for visas additionally each nation should encourage its citizens visit another state during this trial period so as enable them appreciate diversity within humanity while still recognizing commonalities among different peoples across globe.

China has expanded its visa-free travel scheme to six European nations in an effort to build bridges between countries and simplify global connections, it said on Tuesday. The country hopes that by doing so there will be a greater understanding of different cultures during what is considered a time when communication across borders has never been more necessary due mainly (but not limited solely) globalization which necessitates establishment many more international linkages even though they might seem unnecessary initially given current technological advances especially those related air transport industry where flights can cover very long distances faster than other modes like rail or road thus reducing travel time significantly thereby increasing efficiency levels significantly also consequently further improving quality standards globally throughout all sectors involved both directly indirectly related tourism being one them.

The announcement comes after promises made earlier this year by China’s Premier Li Qiang at a meeting with Swiss President Viola Amherd. At the same conference, Beijing agreed to give Swiss citizens visa-free access to the country- a move that was welcomed as strengthening diplomatic relations and economic ties between the two countries.

Giant Panda

Breaking down barriers between nations through simplified border crossings could open up new possibilities for travellers. Whether you are an adventurer eager to see the Great Wall of China, a business person looking for manufacturing opportunities in Shenzhen or a backpacker seeking enlightenment from ancient Buddhist temples in Chengdu, this trial period offers something special for everyone.

The program builds on commitments made by Premier Li Qiang when he met with Swiss President Viola Amherd stating that Switzerland will receive unilateral free entry into China among other things which are aimed at deepening ties between Beijing and Bern as well as boosting economic cooperation both sides.

The move expands on China’s previous moves to simplify visa procedures for people from around the world. In 2016, the country introduced a 30-day visa-free stay for tourists visiting Hainan Island, and in 2017 it extended the same policy to non-Chinese visitors of several cities in Liaoning province.

Contact Crown DMC to plan your next trip to China

Source 

Transavia Brussels’ new flights:

September 14, 2023: Transavia has chosen to increase its presence at Brussels Airport due to restricted capacity at Eindhoven and Rotterdam airports and the expected downsizing at Amsterdam Schiphol.

Another plane will be brought in to Brussels while three more cities are introduced by Transavia into its route network including Bari, Marrakech and Thessaloniki from June next year.

Starting on June 27th, there will be Thrice per week flights to Bari (Italy).

Also starting thenceforth from June 28th, thrice weekly flights to Marrakech Morocco will commence.

Flights twice a week start on June 29th for Thessaloniki

What is more, some of the current destinations will have an increase in frequencies as follows:

Alicante increases from 6 to 7 weekly

Heraklion increases from 3 to 4 weekly

Ibiza increases from 4 to 5 weekly

Malaga increases from 6 to 7 weekly

Tenerife South increases from2to3weekly

In addition, Transavia maintains frequencies to Faro, Seville and Zakynthos that are summer destinations while Innsbruck and Salzburg being winter destinations.

source: https://www.transavia.com

Tunisia's Soaring Connectivity to Europe: A Record-Breaking Summer

Tunisia has more capacity to Europe than any other African country, after Morocco and Egypt, . It will offer a record 3.54 million departing seats between April and October, according to Cirium data, a 14.6% rise over 2019. In the past two decades, this is only the fourth time that Tunisian capacity has exceeded three million seats — showing strong recovery from the  global pandemic among other things.

Highlights of Tunisia's Soaring Connectivity to Europe:

• Record Capacity: Highest ever for Tunisia with 3.54 million departing seats.
• Strong Growth: Up by 14.6% on 2019.
• Resilient Recovery: Overcoming the impacts of theglobal pandemic etc.

However, development has been held back by delays to an eagerly anticipated EU open skies agreement – much like Morocco, increased foreign (Ultra)LCC presence would benefit Tunisia to stimulate tourism and VFR traffic. Nevertheless, significant growth has been recorded by Nouvelair – a leisure operator based in Tunisia.

A Record Summer with Many New European Routes:

Over 30 new routes have been launched this summer – all are brand-new or not operated within the last decade by stated carriers; All are 2-weekly, except those with an *, which are weekly, and **, which are 3-weekly:

• 14 March: Nouvelair, Tunis-Basel (Switzerland)
• 27 March: easyJet, Bristol-Enfidha
• 31 May: Eurowings, Stuttgart-Monastir*
• 31 May: TUI fly Deutschland, Stuttgart-Djerba*
• 3 April: Nouvelair, Tunis-Berlin
• 5 April: Eurowings, Dusseldorf-Monastir
• 7 April: Nouvelair, Tunis-Bordeaux
• 19 April: Nouvelair, Sfax-Paris CDG
• 3 May: Eurowings Discover, Frankfurt-Monastir
• 6 May: Bulgaria Air, Sofia-Djerba*
• 26 May: Nouvelair, Tunis-Munich
• 1 June: Nouvelair, Djerba-Poznan*
• 1 June: Nouvelair, Sfax-Istanbul IST
• 12 June: Neos, Milan MXP-Djerba
• 12 June: Neos, Verona-Djerba*
• 12 June: Nouvelair, Monastir-Lublin/Katowice*
• 19 June: Neos, Bologna-Djerba/Monastir*
• 19 June: Neos, Rome FCO-Djerba/Monastir*
• 28 June: Nouvelair, Monastir-Bratislava*
• 19 June: Nouvelair, Tunis-Stockholm ARN*
• 2 July: Brussels Airlines, Brussels-Monastir
• 4 July: Eurowings, Hamburg-Tunis*
• 7 July: Nouvelair, Monastir-Banja Luka*
• 17 July: Nouvelair, Tunis-Milan MXP
• 10 September: Nouvelair, Tunis-Frankfurt**
• 11 September: Nouvelair, Tunis-Copenhagen*
• 14 September: Nouvelair, Tunis-St Petersburg
• 17 September: Nouvelair, Tunis-Bologna
• 29 October: easyJet, Basel-Enfidha
• 30 October: easyJet, London LTN-Enfidha**
• 30 October: Transavia France, Paris ORY-Tozeur

This year has seen a tremendous increase in the number of flights between Tunisia and Europe, with new routes being added at an unprecedented rate. Six airports in Tunisia now have direct flights from European cities, including Tozeur which will receive its first European flight since Tunisair stopped flying there last year when Transavia France starts serving Paris Orly on 30 October.

These developments demonstrate that Tunisia is serious about growing its tourism industry and aviation sector – an exciting future awaits for travellers and the country’s economy.

Tunisia has never been so easy to get to. Why not let our fantastic DMC in Tunisia help plan your next trip? Contact Barclay's Group Travel and get planning the trip of a lifetime!

200 weekly flights and 17 new routes announced by Ryanair

June 8, 2023 -  Ryanair has announced a significant expansion for its Winter '23 schedule, including 200 weekly flights and the introduction of 17 new routes to and from Albania. This expansion marks Albania as the 37th country within Ryanair's extensive network. It will offer immediate access to vital inbound tourism markets, including Belgium, the Czech Republic, France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Romania, Sweden, and the UK. Additionally, this initiative will bring competitive fares and improved connectivity for Albanians who wish to travel to their homeland or visit friends and family abroad.

These exciting new Winter routes will help Albania in achieving substantial growth in the tourism industry. It is well-established that countries benefit greatly from the presence of major airlines like Ryanair, which can contribute to capacity growth. Ryanair has consistently and successfully demonstrated its role in supporting European economies heavily reliant on tourism, such as Spain, Italy, Ireland, Portugal, and Malta.

Source: https://ryanair.com