Wizz Air Expands Across Europe : More Routes, More Bases, and a Whole Lot of Pink Planes

Europe’s favorite ultra-low-cost carrier, Wizz Air, is flexing its wings again—this time with a whirlwind expansion across Poland, North Macedonia, and Moldova. They’re adding shiny new planes, launching fresh routes, and basically proving that you don’t need a first-class budget to fly like royalty (or at least like someone who enjoys €20 tickets).

Need assistance with groups and incentives in Poland? Contact us!

Poland Gets a Plane Party

Over in Warsaw, Wizz Air is cranking up the volume with two brand-new Airbus A321neo planes, bumping their Warsaw Chopin base to a fleet of 14 aircraft by summer 2025. What does that mean for you?

• Four new destinations: Say hello to Dortmund, Bucharest, Genoa, and Pisa. (Because what’s summer without pizza, pasta, and the Leaning Tower?)
• Increased flights on 15 existing routes—basically, Warsaw’s turning into Europe’s new connecting hotspot.
• Oh, and there’s 1 million extra seats up for grabs, with a 20% capacity boost, so maybe now you can avoid middle seats altogether.

North Macedonia’s New Horizons

Skopje, Wizz Air’s Macedonian headquarters, isn’t being left out of the fun.

• Three fresh routes are set to launch, connecting Skopje to Barcelona, Lyon, and Stuttgart between May and September 2025.
• With a network of 32 routes, Skopje is becoming the Beyoncé of budget flights—totally in its prime and grabbing all the attention.

Moldova Makes a Comeback

Moldova’s Chisinau is also back on Wizz Air’s radar in a big way.

• A second aircraft will join the fleet, marking the return of a permanent base.
• Three new routes: Pack your bags for Barcelona, Larnaca, and Wroclaw, starting July 2025.
• Moldovan travelers, rejoice—your summer 2025 capacity is set to soar by a jaw-dropping 211%.

Why Wizz Air’s Expansion Is Big News

Not only is Wizz Air filling more gaps on the European map, but they’re also doing it with a green thumb, living up to their title as ‘EMEA’s most environmentally sustainable airline.’ So, if you’ve been on the lookout for an opportunity to hop on a plane and take an odyssey in perfect peace, this is the chance you’ve desired.

What’s Next?

If you’re dreaming of summer getaways, now’s the time to start planning. Whether it’s a tapas tour in Barcelona, a pasta pilgrimage to Genoa, or finally finding out what Wroclaw’s all about, Wizz Air’s got the flights—and the budget-friendly prices—to make it happen.

Wizz Air Expands Across Europe

Pack light, book early, and prepare for takeoff—2025 is shaping up to be Wizz Air’s biggest year yet!

Eurowings Expands Summer Flights for 2025 – From Rovaniemi to Seville and Everywhere in Between! 

Eurowings is here to make your summer travel dreams come true—and maybe add a touch of chaos to your “Where should we go?” debates. With 412 routes, 142 destinations, and coverage spanning 36 countries, their 2025 summer schedule is so jam-packed, even Google Maps might get jealous. Whether you’re craving Arctic vibes in Rovaniemi or flamenco in Seville, Eurowings has your next adventure covered.

Need assistance with groups and incentives in Dubai? Contact us!

Dubai Just Got Even Closer

For those dreaming of desert sunsets and shopping sprees, Eurowings is upping its game with more flights to Dubai—just in time for the Easter and autumn school holidays. With up to 13 weekly connections between Dubai and Berlin, Stuttgart, and Cologne/Bonn, you’ll have no excuse not to ditch the grey skies of Germany for some much-needed Vitamin D. 

Summer Highlights by German Bases: Your Cheat Sheet

From Berlin: Capital City, Capital Flights

• 42 destinations to choose from—your indecision starts here.
• Newbies: Bilbao, Corfu, Faro, Newcastle, and Jerez de la Frontera.
• Dubai: Perfect for school-holiday escapes.
• Extra flights to hotspots like Málaga, Heraklion, and Nice.

From Dortmund: Small Base, Big Summer Energy

• 5 destinations (but they pack a punch!).
• New arrivals: Thessaloniki, Kavala, Catania, and Split.
• Star feature: 14 weekly flights to Palma de Mallorca—because why not?

From Düsseldorf: Your Passport to Everywhere

• A whopping 110 destinations. Yes, you read that right.
• New routes to Ljubljana, Mostar, Preveza, Seville, and Warsaw.
• Crowd-pleasers: Cairo, Marsa Alam, and Santa Claus’s favorite hangout, Rovaniemi.

From Cologne/Bonn: More Flights, More Fun

• 66 destinations—enough to make your travel bucket list grow exponentially.
• New routes: Erbil, Klagenfurt, and Bastia.
• Holiday treat: More flights to Dubai during school breaks.
• Extra service to hotspots like Málaga, Gran Canaria, and Verona.

From Hamburg: Northern Charm, Sunny Escapes

• 52 destinations.
• Increased service to Barcelona, Málaga, and Thessaloniki—because who doesn’t love a bit of sunshine?

From Hanover: Italy Calling

• 11 destinations, including some Italian gems: Rome, Bergamo, Olbia, and Lamezia Terme. Bellissimo! 

From Nuremberg: Greek Island Getaway

• 7 destinations, with 14 weekly flights to Mallorca and 9 weekly flights to Greece (Crete, Kos, and Rhodes). Just don’t forget your sunscreen.

From Stuttgart: Flights Galore

• 67 destinations because Stuttgart doesn’t mess around.
• New additions: Malta and Mostar.
• Extra connections to Budapest, Bucharest, and Greek islands galore.

New Routes from Austria: Small Country, Big Summer Plans

• Salzburg: Say hello to Barcelona.
• Graz: Get your Greek on with flights to Heraklion (Crete).
• Linz: Jet off to Kos.

Eurowings Expands Summer Flights for 2025

Whether you’re planning to sip sangria in Seville, hunt the Northern Lights in Rovaniemi, or live your best Dubai life, Eurowings’ summer schedule has you covered. Pack your bags, grab your travel playlist, and get ready to explore—just don’t forget to set 47 alarms if your flight’s at 5 AM. 

weather in Dubai

Eurowings Increases Summer 2025 Flights : Sun, Sea, and the Perfect Excuse to Skip Berlin’s Drizzle

Dreaming of a summer filled with sunshine, sea breezes, and not a raincloud in sight? Eurowings has your back, whisking you away from Berlin to 42 fabulous European destinations. Whether you crave sandy beaches, cultural charm, or just a break from explaining Berlin’s “Berliner” donut joke to tourists, we’ve got you covered.

Need assistance with groups and incentives in Europe? Contact us today!

New Destinations: From Beaches to Geordies

Say hello to your 2024 summer playlist:

• Bilbao, Spain: Where art and pintxos collide—bring stretchy pants.
• Corfu, Greece: Greek island dreams, hold the crowds.
• Faro, Portugal: The Algarve’s answer to your winter blues.
• Jerez de la Frontera, Spain: For when wine tours are the only cardio you need.
• Newcastle, UK: Yes, England! Friendly locals, cool pubs, and accents you’ll pretend to understand.

More Flights, Fewer Excuses

We’re turning up the volume on your favorite tracks:

• Mallorca: We’re flying there 21 times a week. So if you miss one flight, don’t worry, there’s another right after your next sangria.
• Rhodes, Kos, Split, Nice: Your go-to summer vibes, now with extra departures.

Fancy something off the beaten path? How about Yerevan (Armenia) or Erbil? Trust us, they’re worth googling.

Cutting Back on Domestic Hops

While our European playlist is on repeat, our domestic tracklist has taken a minor remix. Blame it on sky-high state levies making some German routes as pricey as gourmet currywurst.

• Düsseldorf, Cologne/Bonn, Stuttgart: Still covered, but every tenth flight took an early retirement. We’re keeping things strong with up to 7 daily flights to Stuttgart, 6 to Cologne/Bonn, and 5 to Düsseldorf. Enough to get you where you need to go—whether that’s a business meeting or a sneaky weekend escape.

Eurowings Increases Summer 2025 Flights

Berlin summers are lovely, sure, but wouldn’t you rather be sipping sangria in Spain, lounging in Greece, or exploring the streets of Bilbao? With Eurowings, your summer starts as soon as you board.

Source

Lufthansa Unveils Exciting Summer 2025 Routes

Long winter nights, thick socks, and warm blankets are nature’s way of saying, “Hang in there; summer is worth it!”  For the Lufthansa Group, it means the start of the summer season, releasing its calendar for 2025 – one filled with new routes to different places across Europe and more. But, before the thought of travelling comes to mind in the middle of winter, when you are kicking back with a hot mug of cocoa, summer is just around the corner. A mix between fantasy and reality, summer will have people jetting off with various branches of Lufthansa. So where exactly will its new route take us? Where do we see summer?

Need assistance with groups and incentives in Europe? Contact us!

Lufthansa Airlines: Frankfurt's Fresh Destinations

Bydgoszcz, Poland – Ever heard of it? If not, you’re about to. This Polish gem offers historic architecture, lively culture, and riverside views. Add it to the itinerary for a summer that’s equal parts scenic and serene.

Discover Airlines: Frankfurt and Munich Offer More

From Frankfurt

• Ålesund, Norway – Fjords, anyone? Adventure seekers will love this Art Nouveau gem surrounded by Norway’s natural wonders. It’s a postcard come to life.

From Munich

• Windhoek, Namibia – Safari dreams calling? Head to Namibia for stunning landscapes, wildlife, and just a little more sunshine than your German summer.
• Calgary, Canada – Hello, Canadian Rockies! Calgary is a great place to land if you want to go to Banff, Jasper and more hiking adventures that you can throw a hiking stick at.
• Orlando, USA – Theme parks galore! If the family wants to have some fun ( or the lady loves a good roller coaster) it is time to take a trip to Orlando’s sun and sights.
• Bodø, Norway – Midnight sun, northern lights, and unlimited outdoor activities. This is Norway in all its splendor.

Austrian Airlines: Expanding from Vienna

Edinburgh, Scotland – Castles, kilts, and culture! Edinburgh is calling with medieval charm and a side of haggis. Get ready for some lively Scottish hospitality.
Sylt, Germany – Germany’s own island escape. With sandy beaches and luxe resorts, Sylt is perfect for those who want to feel a little fancy by the sea.

Swiss International Air Lines: Zurich’s Latest Additions

Niš, Serbia – Situated in one of Serbia’s oldest cities, Niš is rich in history, culture and local food. Those who have added the Balkan region on their travel list, this is the place.
Montpellier, France – Sun, sea, and art? Check, check, check. Enjoy the Mediterranean architecture of Montpellier this summer.

Edelweiss: Zurich’s Leisure Expert Adds New Spots

Halifax, Canada – Prepare to be enchanted by the stunning coastlines of Nova Scotia, fresh seafood and warm maritime hospitality of Canada.
Seattle, USA – The city of coffee, tech, and towering pines! Seattle has a little something for everyone, whether you’re a foodie or an outdoor enthusiast.

Bonus for Plane Buffs: The Airbus A380 Returns to Munich!

Aviation fans, rejoice— the famous airplane A380 is back in the station elements lifting skylines of Boston, New York, Washington, LA and Delhi. It's going to be the summer of the big bird and it can swoosh you to the most memorable places in the world.

Start Dreaming, Start Booking

So which one is it going to be? The Fjords Of Norway? The beaches of sylt island? The coastal ambience of halifax? The skys the limit, Summer 2025 is just about the corner so it's the best time to get your ultimate escape plans with the Lufthansa Group. Who knows? You may be lying on the beach and sipping cocktails before you know it. Lufthansa Unveils Exciting Summer 2025 Routes

EasyJet Unveils Winter Wonderland Flights!

Grab your scarves and passports, because easyJet is rolling out the frosty red carpet for its 2024/2025 winter schedule! They’re adding some seriously tempting destinations from Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) that’ll take you from city lights to Northern Lights faster than you can say, “More legroom, please.”

Need assistance with groups and incentives in Europe? Contact us!

New Destinations for Cosy Getaways and Winter Magic

Here’s the lowdown on where you can escape to when Berlin’s winter gets a little too, well, Berlin:

• Agadir, Morocco: Starting 5 November, you can flee to Agadir on Tuesdays and Sundays for that much-needed sunshine. Imagine Berlin’s icy winds…then imagine not being in them.

• Lyon, France: Cheese, wine, charming streets – hello, Lyon! Kicking off 8 November, this Friday-Sunday route has “perfect weekend escape” written all over it.

• Cairo, Egypt: Dust off that passport because Cairo is back! Flights resume on 6 November (Wednesdays and Fridays). Pyramids? Check. Camel rides? Check. Winter coats? Leave ’em behind!

Then, when December rolls in, easyJet cranks up the winter charm:

• Tromsø, Norway: Start stargazing on 6 December (Mondays and Fridays) because Tromsø is one of the best spots to catch the northern lights. Just don’t forget the hot cocoa and, maybe, three layers of everything.

• Rovaniemi, Finland: Launching 7 December on Tuesdays and Saturdays, Rovaniemi offers the ultimate Santa Claus vibes. Snow, reindeer, and maybe even a glimpse of the big guy himself – it’s the winter wonderland we all dream of.

• Liverpool, UK: Rejoining the lineup from 14 February 2025 on Mondays and Fridays. Go see the Beatles' hometown, or just find the coziest pub in town and stay warm.

Even More Flights, Even More Options

If that wasn’t enough, easyJet is also cranking up flight frequencies to Madeira, Barcelona, Rome, and beyond. Think of it as their way of saying, “Hey, winter doesn’t have to be a drag!”

EasyJet Unveils Winter Wonderland Flights

With routes like these, your winter just went from snow boots and soup to weekend adventures and city strolls. Dust off those travel bags and prep for a season of hopping from one amazing destination to the next. Because let’s face it: winter was made for adventures, and easyJet’s making sure you don’t miss a single one.

Condor Expands with Eight Exciting Destinations : Condor Takes “Bleisure” to New Heights 

Get ready to pack that carry-on, because Condor’s going all-in on Europe next summer! The airline just announced eight brand-new daily routes out of Frankfurt, taking you straight to Rome, Milan, Prague, Vienna, Zurich, Berlin, Hamburg, and Munich. Yes, it’s like they’ve opened a buffet of city escapes—except you don’t need to choose; you can sample them all!

This isn’t just your standard airline expansion, either. Condor’s tapping into the latest craze—“bleisure” travel. That’s business + leisure, where you spend the day in a meeting and the evening sipping wine in an Italian piazza. Why be all work or all play when you can have both?

Need assistance with groups and incentives in Europe? Contact us!

A Fresh Spin on Condor’s Usual Holiday Vibes

Condor’s CEO, Peter Gerber, is pretty pumped about Condor Expands with Eight Exciting Destinations, too. He explained that the airline’s moving beyond its classic beach-bound image to give you more choice, especially if your idea of “vacation” includes free Wi-Fi and espresso breaks between presentations. It's like Condor took a look at the calendar and said, "You know what? Europeans deserve a little weekday escapism in these fabulous cities!"

More Planes, More Places—Strategically, of Course

And to keep up with all this city-hopping fun, Condor’s putting five extra planes in strategic spots like Zurich, Vienna, and Milan. It’s like a game of travel chess, with Condor making all the right moves for business and leisure alike. Plus, these partnerships with local tour operators mean there’s plenty in store once you land.

So, if you’ve been dreaming of dashing from Frankfurt to your favourite European hotspots for a little “bleisure” of your own, Condor’s got you covered. Mark those summer dates, because 2025 just became your year for work-hard, play-harder travel!

airBaltic Launches Winter Routes from Vilnius

Latvian airline airBaltic is giving winter wanderlust a turbo boost with two new direct flights out of Vilnius: Düsseldorf and Oslo Torp! Yes, you read that right—Lithuanian travelers can now escape to Germany or Norway twice a week, starting this October. And, with Economy fares kicking off at a friendly EUR 29 for Oslo Torp and EUR 49 for Düsseldorf (Business Class options available for when you want that extra legroom and a fancy meal), winter travel just got a serious upgrade.

Düsseldorf: Think of it as your gateway to Germany’s best bratwurst, museums, and holiday markets. Ideal for those who want their winter scenery with a side of schnitzel.

Oslo Torp: Snow, fjords, and maybe a glimpse of the Northern Lights—Norway is ready to bring on the winter charm. And with fares from EUR 29, even your wallet will be happy.

Need assistance with your groups and incentives in Norway, contact us!

Straight from the airBaltic Team

Thomas Ramdahl, Senior Vice President of Network Management, notes that airBaltic is committed to opening up Lithuania to a world of travel opportunities, keeping both leisure seekers and business travelers in mind. And with 14 direct routes from Vilnius (plus easy one-stop connections to over 80 European destinations via the Riga hub), there’s something for everyone.

airBaltic Launches Winter Routes from Vilnius

But wait, there’s more! The upcoming summer season will see airBaltic launching seven more exciting routes from Vilnius, including Ibiza, Rhodes, and Tel Aviv. So, start making your summer playlists now—2025’s about to be your year in the air.

SWISS Launches Four New European Routes!

If your summer plans involve exploring hidden European gems, SWISS has the ticket! As part of its summer 2025 schedule, SWISS is adding direct flights from Zurich to four fabulous destinations: Niš (Serbia), Heringsdorf (Germany), Montpellier (France), and Dubrovnik (Croatia). From Mediterranean beaches to historic German towns, the choices just got even more tempting. SWISS Launches Four New European Routes is simply fantastic news!

New Routes, New Routines

Wondering when you can take off? Here’s how SWISS has laid out the game plan:

• Niš: Mondays and Thursdays, because nothing says “midweek escape” quite like hopping to Serbia.
• Heringsdorf: Saturdays only—perfect for the traveler who dreams of a weekend in the serene seaside town in Germany.
• Montpellier: Mondays and Fridays, ideal for kicking off your week or starting your weekend in France’s sun-kissed south.
• Dubrovnik: Beginning April 17, 2025, with up to five weekly flights. That’s five chances a week to dive into Dubrovnik’s stunning coastline!

But SWISS isn’t stopping there. They're sticking with their newly minted Geneva-Berlin service, letting you enjoy that daily Swiss-German city link all summer long. And if you’ve got a soft spot for Manchester, Krakow, Košice, or Copenhagen, SWISS is boosting its flights to these hot spots, too—so feel free to keep adding pins to your travel map.

Need help with your groups and incentives in Europe, dont'hesitate to contact us!

Long-Haul Lovin’

For those of you dreaming big, SWISS has you covered with its long-haul come-back routes. Washington DC, Toronto, and Seoul are all back in action. And if a Mediterranean holiday is your go-to, SWISS’s 2025 schedule has you covered across the board. The summer timetable kicks off March 30 and wraps up October 25, 2025, featuring a grand total of 116 destinations, with 70 of those right here in Europe.

Grab Your Bags – Your SWISS Summer Awaits

So, if your plans for summer 2025 include anything from lazy beach days in Croatia to cultural excursions in Montpellier, SWISS is clearing the runway. Whether you’re looking for a European mini-break or plotting out your next intercontinental adventure, SWISS’s new routes are primed to take you there in style.

Skilled Worker Visas Expand Across Europe —Germany, France, and Portugal Roll Out the Welcome Mat for Talent!

Brace yourself, world! Europe’s three tourism heavyweights—Germany, France, and Portugal—are rolling out fresh visa policies in 2024 to make life a little easier for skilled professionals looking to move in and make their mark, especially in tourism. Think of it as a VIP pass to the “talent wanted” party, where your entry ticket is your skillset, not your EU passport.

Germany's "Opportunity Card": The Golden Ticket for Job Hunters

Germany, ever the innovator, launched its sleek Opportunity Card, or Chancenkarte, in June 2024. This points-based visa is like the golden ticket for non-EU skilled pros who fancy their chances in Deutschland’s job market. No need for a pre-arranged job—just grab the card, polish up that resume, and you’ve got a year to prove you’re Germany’s next big thing.

What’s the catch? Only a few points on the board! Candidates will need to check boxes for qualifications, work experience, and language skills (either German or English, so you can skip those “German for Absolute Beginners” flashcards...or not). With tourism and hospitality screaming for skilled workers, Germany hopes this move will fill some major gaps.

France's "Talent Passport Visa": Oui to High Flyers

Over in France, it’s all about the Talent Passport Visa, an upgrade that’s perfect for anyone with big plans and a stellar resume. If you’ve got a university degree or a solid five years of experience, you’re off to a flying start. And, let’s be honest, nothing says “French welcome” like the promise of a four-year residence permit!

There’s just one small asterisk: you’ll need a job offer with a salary that’s at least 1.5 times the average gross annual wage (about €35,891), so start cozying up to some French employers. For the tourism dreamers and hospitality heroes, the Talent Passport Visa opens up prime spots in France’s tourism scene. Business project? Tourism venture? France says “bienvenue!”

Portugal’s "Flexible Visas": Just in Time for Tourist Season

Portugal gets it. They know that sometimes you want to dip your toes into the job pool, and sometimes you want to dive right in. With their flexible visa options, Portugal has your back whether you’re in for a quick season or ready to stick around.

The short-term seasonal visa offers up to nine months of sunshine (and hard work) for those quick-on-their-feet enough for seasonal tourism gigs. Need a bit more stability? The long-term visas, valid for up to two years, are here for you, giving Portugal’s tourist industry the seasonal surge of workers it needs while also setting up long-haulers with a place to call home.

Why Tourism Loves These New Visas

European tourism has long been a labor of love—and lately, they’ve been short on the love part. These new visa policies are a game-changer, allowing hotels, tour companies, and hospitality heavyweights to finally keep pace with post-pandemic demand.

• Germany’s Opportunity Card brings in quick-responders for seasonal surges, filling positions faster than you can say “Oktoberfest.”
• France’s Talent Passport Visa caters to the pros, adding polish and professionalism to top-tier tourist offerings.
• Portugal’s Seasonal Visa makes sure there are enough hands on deck for the high season rush, but with room to stay longer if needed.

For travelers, this means smoother service, faster check-ins, and better experiences all around. Because nothing says “relaxing vacation” like knowing your hotel won’t be scrambling for staff every other day. Skilled Worker Visas Expand Across Europe is an exciting prospect!

The "How" of Getting There

Getting a visa is often about as fun as waiting in line at the Louvre, but these new rules are here to make things as painless as possible:

1. Germany’s Opportunity Card: Prove you’re qualified, apply, and off you go for up to a year of job-hunting magic.
2. France’s Talent Passport Visa: Get that job offer in the bag, ensure the salary’s right, and arrive with enough time to snag a residence permit within two months.
3. Portugal’s Seasonal Visa: Whether it’s nine months or two years, apply online and pack your sunblock—Portugal’s almost ready for you!

A Boost for Tourism and a Treat for Travellers

These visa changes aren’t just a win for skilled workers; they’re a triumph for travelers everywhere. With the tourism workforce rebounding, Europe is primed for a season of seamless travel experiences. Expect a service boost and an array of new perspectives from a more diverse tourism team—and all thanks to three forward-thinking countries that know the value of a warm welcome.

So, if you’re a skilled pro looking to call Europe home, pack those bags, update that LinkedIn, and grab your visa. The European tourism industry is hiring, and it’s never been easier to hop on board!

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!

Eurowings Expands to the Gulf: More Sand, More Sun, More Shenanigans!

Hold onto your boarding passes, people, because Eurowings is cranking up the thermostat this winter with a bunch of new routes to the Gulf! After their Berlin-Dubai flights became the travel equivalent of toilet paper in a pandemic (seriously, it’s that popular), Eurowings decided to go all-in and take us on the ultimate magic carpet ride. Buckle up, here’s the lowdown:

Berlin-Dubai: The Ultimate Winter Fling!

Looks like Berliners have a full-blown holiday romance with Dubai’s sun, sand, and towering skyscrapers – and honestly, who wouldn’t? Starting this October, Eurowings is turning up the heat by making the Berlin-Dubai route a daily fling. Yep, that’s seven days a week to swap the snowstorm for a sandstorm! Picture yourself lounging by the pool with a cocktail while your friends back home try to pry their frozen windshield wipers free. Now that’s the kind of winter survival we can get behind!

But wait, Stuttgart’s not getting left out in the cold! They’re also jumping on the Dubai bandwagon, with flights increasing from two to three times a week. Time to swap the schnitzel for shawarma and live your best life in the desert!

Cologne/Bonn Crashes the Dubai Party in Winter 2024/25!
As if that wasn’t enough, Eurowings is launching a new route from Cologne/Bonn to Dubai with three weekly flights starting in winter 2024/25. Tickets start at a mere €179.99 one way, which is almost cheaper than a round of drinks at the Christmas market.

Eurowings Does Saudi Arabia: Jeddah You Believe It?
For the first time ever, Eurowings is flying to Saudi Arabia, and they’re not playing around. They’re rolling out three weekly flights to Jeddah from both Cologne/Bonn and Berlin this winter season. This means you can swap your bratwurst for falafel and have an epic story for when someone asks, “What did you do over the holidays?”

Düsseldorf to Cairo: Pyramids Are Just a Flight Away!
If Dubai and Jeddah aren't your style, how about a little trip to the land of the pharaohs? Eurowings is launching flights from Düsseldorf to Cairo starting October 30, 2024. It’s happening twice a week. Honestly, at this rate, even your coffee addiction is starting to look more expensive.

Attention Dutch Travellers!
Eurowings hasn’t forgotten about our friends from the Netherlands! The new routes from Cologne/Bonn and Düsseldorf are practically calling your name. For those in southern Netherlands, it’s a quick hop over to Düsseldorf (DUS) or Cologne/Bonn (CGN) – making it super easy to jet off to sunny destinations like Dubai and Cairo without breaking the bank. Who needs Schiphol when you’ve got Eurowings around the corner?

So there you have it! This Eurowings Expands to the Gulf means more flights, more destinations, and more chances to escape whatever it is you’re pretending to be busy with. Grab your tickets, slap on some sunscreen, and let Eurowings take you on a ride to the Gulf region. Who knew winter could be this hot?

Thinking of planning your next trip to Dubai? Why not let our fantastic DMC Dubai help you with every detail. 

Air Cairo Connects Cologne to Cairo: Swapping Snow for Sphinxes with Air Cairo!

Get ready to trade in your winter woollies for sunglasses, because Air Cairo is launching a brand-new route connecting Cologne/Bonn Airport to the sunny streets of Cairo! Starting October 27, 2024, you can escape the chilly German weather with two weekly flights, departing every Thursday and Sunday. Who needs autumn leaves when you can have ancient pyramids, right?

Why This Route is Your Ticket to Winter Bliss

As Thilo Schmid, the CEO of Flughafen Köln/Bonn GmbH, so aptly put it, Egypt is a hot (literally) favourite when the German weather takes a frosty turn. With its balmy temperatures and fascinating history, Cairo offers the perfect getaway for those looking to thaw out and experience something extraordinary. Whether you’re wandering through the UNESCO-listed old city centre or standing in awe before the pyramids of Giza and the mysterious Sphinx, Cairo is a city that promises to warm your heart—and your toes!

Flight Details: Short, Sweet, and Full of Sunshine

Those desperate for a break from the biting cold need not go through much trouble. Take an Air Cairo Airbus A320 from Cologne/Bonn at 14:40 to fly for about three and forty minutes to the land of pharaos and falafel. With a short, comfortable airplane flight, you will have enough time to visit the active bazaars of Cairo, the Great Pyramids and maybe even find a camel to ride into the sunset.

Already a Fan of Egypt?

If you are an active Egypt lover, you will be happy to hear that the Air Cairo keeps on expanding its lines and does not stop at Cairo. They have in fact already established Url Cologne/Bonn to Hurghada and Url Cologne/Bonn to Marsa Alam. So, whether you want to go sightseeing in Cairo, or just to have a nice beach holiday, Air Cairo is at your disposal.

Air Cairo Connects Cologne to Cairo

So, why endure another gray, dreary winter when you could be exploring the vibrant streets of Cairo? Grab your passport, pack your bags, and let our fabulous DMC in Egypt whisk you away to a warmer, more adventurous world!

Contact our DMC in Egypt to plan your dream trip for you and your clients. 

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. 

Budapest Airport Announces Four New Routes

Budapest Airport have announced that Wizz Air are launching four new year round routes (starting winter 2024). These four news routes include two new destinations and a revival of two previous routes. 

New and Revived Routes:

Marrakech:

• Start Date: Late October
• Frequency Twice weekly on Tuesdays and Saturdays
• Details: Re-establishes a direct connection to Morocco, last available in 2019.

Genoa (italy):

• Start Date: Late October
• Frequency: Three times weekly
• Details: Targets Hungarian cruise travelers and tourists who previously accessed the region via Milan.

Girona (Spain):

• Start Date: Late October
• Frequency: Three times weekly
• Details: Enhances Budapest’s connectivity to Southern France and the Pyrenees.

Memmingen (Germany):

• Start Date: December 17
• Frequency: Four times weekly
• Details: Restores a link to Bavaria, last available in 2012, providing an alternative gateway to Munich.

Impact on Budapest Airport:

Capacity Increase: Adds half a million seats annually.
Connectivity Boost: Significantly enhances travel options.

Budapest Airport Announces Four New Routes

Máté Ritter, Head of Airline Development, expressed enthusiasm for the new routes and the enhanced travel options they will bring.

Thinking of travelling to one of these marvellous locations? Why not let one of our fabulous DMCs help you with a personlised itinerary and help with finding the right accomodation to suit you and your clients needs. Check out our DMCs here

Discover the Most Walkable Cities of 2024 - 

Exploring a city on foot allows travellers to immerse themselves in local culture and uncover hidden gems. But which are the most suitable cities for pedestrians in 2024? A report provides new details.

Insider Monkey, a financial and investing website, has collected together a list of the most walkable cities in 2024. These towns are good for tourists who believe that walking through streets and neighbourhoods is the best way to discover any place.

This list has been compiled from varied data sources by Insider Monkey. City walkability scores compiled from platforms like Tourlane and WalkScore were considered as well as distances between key tourist attractions, air quality information from IQAir and safety index provided by Numbeo. Using these criteria we were able to come up with thirty cities where each step is an adventure.

Top Walkable City: Riga, Latvia

The capital of Latvia, Riga leads – this Baltic nation is renowned for its attractive architecture as well as tireless cultural life. The city’s compact layout makes it perfect for pedestrians since there are several tourist spots within relatively short distances. “Riga’s historic center is perfectly made for walking” describes this document pointing on charming cobbled streets leading to places such as House of Blackheads or St Peter's church.

Prominent European Cities

The top five positions on this list are all European. They include Florence, Italy; Hamburg, Germany; Porto Portugal; Madrid Spain.  Europe had the highest number of walkable cities on the list, with 17 entries (including Istanbul, which straddles both Europe and Asia).

Global Highlights

In addition to two Australian cities one Asian city and one Middle East country also appeared on the list showcasing a diverse range of walkable destinations around the globe.

Whether you’re exploring Riga’s cobblestone streets or Florence’s old alleys, these towns provide amazing experiences for those who love walking. So come Discover the Most Walkable Cities of 2024.

Why not plan your next trip to Riga and discover this top walkable city yourself...

Source

New Direct Flights to Las Vegas -

Easy Connections to major cities

Aer Lingus operates with ease allowing passengers from different European cities including Manchester, London, Glasgow, Edinburgh, Paris, Berlin, Barcelona, Madrid, Amsterdam and Dusseldorf. These New Direct Flights to Las Vegas just made travelling much easier. 

Aer Lingus will celebrate the launch of their first ever flight from Dublin to fun-filled Las Vegas by flying on the 25th of October, 2024. It is suggested that you book in advance so as not to miss out on a winter break in the Sports and Entertainment Capital of the World.

From just before this year’s mid-term, Aer Lingus will be serving its customers three days per week i.e. Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday up-to April 29th, 2025 which includes Easter midterm break. The operator for this route would be Airbus A330-300 known for its spaciousness thus providing comfortable travel experience to passengers.

Why Choose Las Vegas?

Popularly known as Sin City, Las Vegas has gained an international reputation as an ultimate winter sun and leisure destination with dazzling shows, electrifying concerts, thrilling sports events like the Formula One Las Vegas Grand Prix and magnificent natural attractions like the Grand Canyon. If you love sports or entertainment or nature itself then you must visit Las Vegas.

More Than Just Entertainment

The variety of options for entertainment is infinite ranging from live performances by legends like Garth Brooks and Adele and shows by popular groups such as Cirque du Soleil and Jersey Boys. In addition to its vibrant nightlife, world-class food joints plus iconic casinos make this city a top-rated tourist destination.

Flight Details

• Flight Schedule:  3 times per week (Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday)
• Departure from Dublin (DUB) at 15:20 hrs and arrival in Las Vegas (LAS) at 17:50 hrs.
• Departure from Las Vegas (LAS) at 19:35 hrs and arrival in Dublin (DUB) at 13:10+1
• Flight Time: Approximately 10 hours

Why not let our fabulous DMC in Las Vegas help plan your next trip to 'Sin City'? 

Source

Vietnam Airlines: New Routes to Munich Germany - 

Exciting news from Vietnam Airlines! They're about to shake things up with two fresh routes straight to Munich, Germany, starting this October.

The state-owned carrier said Tuesday that it will use the wide-body Boeing 787 aircraft for the routes.

Here's the lowdown on Vietnam Airlines: New Routes to Munich Germany:

• From Hanoi to Munich: Catch a flight every Friday and Sunday, and return on Monday or Saturday.
• From Ho Chi Minh City to Munich: Kick off with one flight per week on leaving on Mondays and returning onTuesdays,
• Extra flight to be added in December from Ho Chi Minh City to Munich (every wednesday)

You heard it right - Vietnam Airlines is your go-to for direct routes to Europe, adding some serious globetrotting vibes to your travel plans.

Now, let's talk Munich! Think bustling city vibes mixed with stunning architecture, and oh, don't forget Oktoberfest - the ultimate beer lover's paradise!

With these new routes, Vietnam Airlines is spreading its wings to four awesome spots in Germany. Plus, they've already got you covered with flights to Paris and London from Vietnam's main cities.

And the best part? They're not stopping there! Vietnam Airlines' chairman hinted at even more exciting destinations coming your way this year. Milan, Copenhagen, Seattle, and Vancouver, anyone?

Plan your trip to Vietnam today

New flights announced by British airways 

• Riga in Latvia and Belgrade in Serbia are among the latest additions to British Airways’ short-haul route network
• Milan Linate re-joins London City’s network while San Sebastian is extended into the winter
• Heathrow operations to Ljubljana and Istanbul’s Sabiha Gökçen Airport have also been extended into the winter to become year-round destinations
  
  British Airways has announced additions to its route network from London, including new destinations Riga in Latvia and Belgrade in Serbia from London Heathrow, adding more choice for customers who can now choose to travel with British Airways from London to more than 120 short-haul destinations.
  
  Source: https://britishairways.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