Prague https://dev.traveldailymedia.com/tag/prague/ Informing, connecting and developing the world’s travel industry professionals. Thu, 27 Jul 2023 11:56:56 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.3 The 29th International Congress on Sound and Vibration takes place in Prague https://dev.traveldailymedia.com/the-29th-international-congress-on-sound-and-vibration-takes-place-in-prague/ Fri, 28 Jul 2023 00:45:53 +0000 https://www.traveldailymedia.com/?p=839234 The post The 29th International Congress on Sound and Vibration takes place in Prague appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Brand TD.

The International Institute of Acoustics and Vibration (IIAV) and the Society of Acoustics (Czech Republic) have organized the 29th International Congress on Sound and Vibration (ICSV29) from 9 to 13 July 2023

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The International Institute of Acoustics and Vibration (IIAV) and the Society of Acoustics (Czech Republic) have organized the 29th International Congress on Sound and Vibration (ICSV29) from 9 to 13 July 2023 at the Hilton Prague hotel in the Czech Republic for scientists, engineers, and academics working in the areas of sound and vibration.

This year, there was a total of 727 abstracts submitted from 45 countries. The Scientific Programme was structured into 14 Themes, each containing Structured Sessions and Regular Sessions

For the international acoustic-and vibration experts the ICSV29 included an extensive exhibition of sound and vibration measurement instrumentation, equipment and noise and vibration control technologies.

Together with its long-standing partner Sinus Messtechnik GmbH, MTG actively participated as exhibitor at the extensive international Congress exhibition of noise and vibration control technologies.

 

 

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China Airlines to operate direct flights from Taipei, Taiwan to Prague twice weekly   https://dev.traveldailymedia.com/china-airlines-to-operate-direct-flights-from-taipei-taiwan-to-prague-twice-weekly/ Fri, 21 Jul 2023 06:59:53 +0000 https://www.traveldailymedia.com/?p=838021 The post China Airlines to operate direct flights from Taipei, Taiwan to Prague twice weekly   appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Brand TD.

Prague is the sixth European city to which China Airlines operates direct flights from Taipei. With a direct connection to the Taiwanese capital, Taipei, Prague now stands alongside Frankfurt, Amsterdam, London, Rome, and Vienna.

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Beautiful natural scenery, tropical rainforest, and green tea aroma. Prague is the sixth European city to which China Airlines operates direct flights from Taipei. With a direct connection to the Taiwanese capital, Taipei, Prague now stands alongside Frankfurt, Amsterdam, London, Rome, and Vienna. The connection is available twice a week and the carrier uses Airbus A350-900 aircraft to operate the Taipei – Prague route.

Prague Airport has been striving for a long-haul route to East Asia for several years. Its Chairman of the Board of Directors, Jiří Pos, therefore considers its launch to be a tremendous success, saying: “With this new connection, we will also boost inbound tourism.” Before the pandemic, i.e., in 2019, over 190 thousand passengers from Taiwan visited the Czech Republic. Last year, there were only 13,791 Taiwanese visitors, which meant a drop of almost 93 percent. A direct flight between Prague and Taipei could change this. “In addition, the connection will offer passengers from Prague the possibility of convenient transfers to a number of China Airlines destinations in Asia and the Pacific.”

According to China Airlines President, Kao Shing-Hwang, China Airlines is the only carrier to offer non-stop flights between Taiwan and the Czech Republic. The new Prague route will encourage bilateral business, trade and tourism. Kao also expects strong interest from the transit market for Japan, Korea and Vietnam, allowing more Asian travelers to pass through Taiwan on their way to and from the Czech Republic and thus enhancing Taiwan’s status as a regional transit hub.

“Direct air connections, their frequency and quality are of vital importance for tourism. We believe that thanks to the Prague – Taipei flights, the Czech Republic will once again be discovered more by tourists not only from Taiwan, but from all over Asia, who represent a very interesting tourism segment. If we take the average spending of tourists from China, Japan and South Korea in our country, we can see a gradual return of these foreign guests. While in 2019 they spent a total of CZK 4,860 per person per day in the Czech Republic, a year later it was CZK 3,888 and in 2021 it was even only CZK 2,170. Last year, the situation began to improve – the average spending of these Asian travellers in our country was CZK 4,321 per person per day,” says Jan Herget, director CzechTourism, adding: “The good news is that, as well as spending, the number of travellers from Asia is growing. The data on hotel accommodation in the Czech Republic from May this year shows that the number of Taiwanese tourists increased by 2,753 percent year-on-year, from 393 to 11,213.

Taiwan is not only a country of modern technology, but also offers many tourist attractions. In Taipei, the capital of three million inhabitants, there is the Palace Museum, which preserves rare collections of artefacts from the Forbidden City. Next year, the impressive local skyscraper, which is the second tallest building in the world and bears the number 101 in its name after the number of floors, will celebrate its twentieth anniversary. The island abounds in wild tropical nature with gorges, mountains, lakes, and thermal springs. Almost a tenth of the area of Taiwan is formed by national parks.

In terms of routes to Asia and the Middle East, Prague Airport currently offers connections to Amman, Dubai, Doha, Kuwait, Muscat, Riyadh, and Seoul.

 

 

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Prague Retained International Congresses and Conferences in 2022 https://dev.traveldailymedia.com/prague-retained-international-congresses-and-conferences-in-2022/ Fri, 02 Jun 2023 07:36:52 +0000 https://www.traveldailymedia.com/?p=817644 The post Prague Retained International Congresses and Conferences in 2022 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Brand TD.

Prague welcomed almost four thousand events with 616,000 delegates last year, according to aggregated data from the Czech Statistical Office (CZSO) and the Prague Convention Bureau (PCB).

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Prague welcomed almost four thousand events with 616,000 delegates last year, according to aggregated data from the Czech Statistical Office (CZSO) and the Prague Convention Bureau (PCB). Although this was an increase of several hundred percent compared to the years of pandemic, meetings Prague has not yet come close to the record years of 2018 and 2019. In international comparison, however, it has improved. In the ranking of the most sought-after congress destinations in the world by the International Congress Association ICCA, the Czech capital has landed on the fifth place in 2022, leaving Madrid, Berlin, Athens, Brussels and London behind.

In-Person Meetings are in Demand Again, Especially in Prague
Aggregated data, i.e. CZSO data from collective accommodation facilities supplemented by Prague Convention Bureau statistics from the key meeting venues in Prague, show that the number of delegates and events held in the capital city last year reached roughly the level of 2014. Compared with the record year of 2019, only 66% of events were held in Prague last year, but with a much higher attendance. “The number of congresses and conferences held at the beginning of 2022 was further affected by the fading pandemic and the related restrictions not only in the Czech Republic but also abroad, as well as by the outbreak of war in Ukraine. Although there were fewer events compared to the pre-covid years, we have seen an enormous interest in participating. Prague welcomed 616,597 delegates in 2022, which corresponds to 86% of event participation in the record meetings year of 2019. These numbers only confirm that personal contact is irreplaceable not only in business communication,” says Roman Muška, Director of the Prague Convention Bureau.

Prague is the Fifth Most Sought-After Meetings Destination in the World
Although the Czech capital has not yet achieved the results of previous years, in international comparison it has ranked the best in its history. It is fifth in the ranking of the world’s most sought-after meeting destinations, improving by four positions since 2019. The ranking is compiled on an annual basis, except for 2021 and 2022, by the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) and includes only the number of international association meetings held. Moving into the group of TOP 5 world destinations is a huge success for Prague, in 2010 it was only in 19th place. However, thanks to the conceptual approach of all organizations in the area of meetings industry development, it has improved by 14 places and the biggest challenge now will be to maintain its position at the top. Vienna topped the list this year, followed by Lisbon, Paris and Barcelona. The TOP 10 cities are complemented by Madrid, Berlin, Athens, Brussels and London. Compared with previous years, Asian destinations such as Singapore, Bangkok, Seoul and Tokyo dropped out of the TOP 10 ranking. Prague must be able to compete with them, which is what the Prague City Hall is aiming to with its support campaigns.

Positive Economic Outlook: More Events for More Nights
The public health and political situation at the beginning of 2022 also had a significant influence on the distribution of events over time and on their structure. While the meetings season in Prague would typically spread mainly over the spring and autumn months, last year it was extended. The busiest months were June, and in addition to the traditional September and October, also November. At the same time, data from the Prague Convention Bureau show that there has been a significant increase in the segment of larger events. Before the pandemic, most events held were those for up to 50 persons, in 2022 the most common events were those with between 500 and 1,000 delegates. Most events last year had one-day duration, but multi-day events recorded a notable increase, which led to an increase in the average length of the event to 2.46 days.

“Prague is successfully rising in the ranking of the world’s TOP meeting destinations, which has a huge economic benefit for the capital. Congresses attract more affluent tourists to Prague, who spend three times more than the average international visitors. In addition, many delegates regularly return to Prague for leisure holidays. In the PCC, we perceive a rapid return of demand, which we want to meet adequately. Thanks to the Czech Presidency of the Council of Europe, we hosted a total of 262 events last year and documented a record year, which has also reflected in our business results,” explains Lenka Žlebková, CEO of the Prague Congress Centre.

309 Large Events a Year: Despite the Decline in International and Corporate Events
The uncertain international situation in the region has triggered changes in the ratio of the participants ‘nationalities. While the ratio of international and local events in Prague was usually balanced, in 2022 the local events still prevailed by a ratio of 2:1. Source markets remained similar to previous years, mainly the UK, the US, Germany and Belgium, but Europe gained even greater percentage dominance (96% of events vs. 87.8% in 2019) at the expense of North America (2.7% of events vs. 8.1% in 2019) and Asia (0.7% of events versus 2.7% in 2019).

Postponing the large association congresses and conferences has led to the fact that in 2022 Prague welcomed the most events of this type in the last five years. A total of 309 of them took place here. Almost every calendar day of the year a conference or a congress took place. On the other hand, the share of corporate events which was at 42% of the record year 2019, did not return to its original level. “Among the most frequently discussed topics at Prague congresses and conferences in 2022 were medical sciences, economics and finance and technology. We have seen a significant increase especially in the number of events dealing with ecology or with previously mentioned technologies,” adds Roman Muška.

Looking Ahead: New Hotels and Stronger Support for Tourism
In 2022, the largest number of events took place: traditionally in hotel facilities, which are suitable for holding smaller meetings and conferences. The hotel market is now undergoing significant expansion. In recent months, several larger hotels have opened, and more should be added by 2024, especially in the luxury segment. These new facilities will offer nearly 2,000 hotel rooms, in addition to the existing 45,000 rooms in 873 premises, with more than 1,700 m2 of meeting space.

“I firmly believe that the Prague meeting industry will also undergo positive changes thanks to the increase in the tourist tax from the original CZK 21 (ca EUR 0.8) to CZK 50 (ca EUR 2), which the capital city introduced at the beginning of last year. The funds obtained this way will flow into the cultivation of tourism and its sustainable development, including support for Prague as an important meeting destination,” adds Roman Muška.

“Thanks to the increase in the tourist tax and the reinvestment of income back into development, we are able, in cooperation with the Prague City Tourism, to support the Stay in Prague campaign, aiming to present Prague as a cultivated destination and to attract a solvent clientele. Prague is not interested in tourists travelling to Prague for drunken entertainment,” explains Jiří Pospíšil, Deputy Mayor of Prague for Culture, Tourism, Heritage Care and Exhibitions.

“Today, half of the revenue from the tourist tax is reinvested back into tourism, allowing us to plan marketing campaigns better, aiming at travellers with a deeper interest in the city. Moreover, these campaigns are paid for by the tourists themselves,” adds František Cipro, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Prague City Tourism.

New PCC Hall will Allow Prague to Host Largest Congresses and Social Events
The support from the city is also welcomed by the Prague Congress Centre, which has long been struggling with the lack of exhibition space necessary for organizing the largest international events. Therefore, the Centre is preparing to implement the long-delayed project of expanding its capacities with a multifunctional exhibition hall. “Already in 2017, the management of the capital city was engaged in the architectural competition; covid interrupted our plans, but now we are reintroducing the project of a new hall. Meetings industry has a great potential, which Prague should use. Part of the project of a multifunctional exhibition space is also the revitalization of the public space around the PCC, which will allow us to revive the cultural and social life of residents in this locality,” concludes Lenka Žlebková.

 

 

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Eurowings expands services in the 2023 summer flight schedule https://dev.traveldailymedia.com/eurowings-expands-services-in-the-2023-summer-flight-schedule/ Tue, 28 Mar 2023 00:05:29 +0000 https://www.traveldailymedia.com/?p=781316 The post Eurowings expands services in the 2023 summer flight schedule appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Brand TD.

Eurowings is further expanding its 2023 summer flight schedule and adding new routes from its bases in Germany, Austria and the Czech Republic.

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Eurowings is further expanding its 2023 summer flight schedule and adding new routes from its bases in Germany, Austria and the Czech Republic. With the additional connections, Germany’s largest vacation airline is responding to the strong demand for vacation travel. At the same time, Eurowings is increasing its “Family and Home Visits” offering, providing travellers with more direct connections to their home countries. A few weeks ago, Eurowings had already announced a significant program expansion at the Berlin and Graz bases for the 2023 summer flight schedule. In total, travellers can choose from more than 140 destinations in 37 countries with Eurowings.

New from Dusseldorf
Eurowings has launched the most extensive program of new routes at its largest base, Dusseldorf. From 29 May, Eurowings will be flying four times a week (Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays, Sundays) from the North Rhine Westphalian state capital to the Norwegian capital Oslo. The Italian city of Verona will be served on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays from 13 May. From 22 June, Eurowings will be flying to Samsun, the largest city in the Black Sea region of Turkey, on Thursdays, and to Adana in the south of the country on Sundays from 25 June. From 27 May, Eurowings will be taking off for Malta every Tuesday and Saturday. The Tunisian coastal city of Monastir will be served by Eurowings from 5 April on Wednesdays from Dusseldorf. From 29 May, Eurowings passengers will be able to reach the Armenian capital Yerevan every Monday.

New from Hamburg
From 4 July, Eurowings will connect Hamburg with Tunis every Tuesday. From 5 July, Eurowings will be operating direct flights to Nador, Morocco, every Wednesday. The island of Malta will also be part of the Eurowings program from the Hanseatic city from 14 May and will be served every Sunday.

New from Stuttgart
Eurowings will be taking off from the capital of Baden-Württemberg to two new destinations in the future: Starting on 3 June, there will be flights to the Greek port city of Volos every Saturday. Also on 31 May, Eurowings will add the Moroccan city of Monastir to its program on Wednesdays.

New from Prague
In addition to the new routes from Germany, Eurowings is also expanding its pan-European offering. From 4 June, the value airline will be offering flights to the island of Zakynthos on the western coast of Greece every Sunday. In addition, Eurowings will be connecting the Czech capital with Geneva, Switzerland, up to five times a week from 26 March.

New from Salzburg
New routes also from Austria: From its Salzburg base, Eurowings will be flying to the Greek city of Thessaloniki every Saturday from 13 May.

 

 

 

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Eurowings flies at pre-Covid levels again with 140 destinations https://dev.traveldailymedia.com/eurowings-flies-at-pre-covid-levels-again-with-140-destinations/ Tue, 24 Jan 2023 04:54:03 +0000 https://www.traveldailymedia.com/?p=766363 The post Eurowings flies at pre-Covid levels again with 140 destinations appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Brand TD.

January is traditionally the strongest booking month for summer vacations in Germany and, as of now, customers can also include the complete Eurowings flight schedule from the end of March to the end of October in their plans.

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January is traditionally the strongest booking month for summer vacations in Germany and, as of now, customers can also include the complete Eurowings flight schedule from the end of March to the end of October in their plans.

The selection includes 37 countries, over 140 destinations and more than 380 routes – the value airline is offering its guests an attractive flight program for the summer of 2023 that seamlessly follows on from the 2019 travel season, before the onset of the pandemic. Greece, Italy and Spain remain the three most popular vacation destinations and all offer a wide range of choices: 16 travel regions in Greece, 15 in Italy and 14 in Spain can be reached with direct flights from Germany operated by the Lufthansa subsidiary. Mallorca is connected with almost 400 flights per week.

 New additions to the program from the five largest Eurowings bases in Germany:

From Berlin

  • A total of around 30 direct destinations
  • Around 20 flights to Mallorca per week
  • New connections to: Alicante, Antalya, Gothenburg, Graz, Helsinki, Ibiza, Copenhagen, Larnaca, Malaga, Nice, Porto, Rhodes and Zakynthos
  • More frequent flights to Mallorca and Stockholm (eleven times per week)

From Dusseldorf

  • A total of 116 direct destinations
  • Up to 65 weekly flights to Mallorca
  • New routes: Bergen (up to two flights weekly) and Tangier (once weekly)
  • More frequent flights to Crete (nine times per week)

From Cologne

  • A total of 81 direct destinations
  • Up to 47 flights per week to Mallorca
  • New connection: Up to four flights per week to Valencia
  • More frequent flights to Barcelona (13 times per week), Rome (nine times per week), Kos and Rhodes (seven times per week), Alicante and Málaga (five times per week), Antalya and Stockholm (four times per week) and Burgas (twice a week)

From Hamburg

  • A total of 51 direct destinations
  • Up to 35 weekly flights to Mallorca
  • New connection: four flights per week to Graz
  • More frequent flights to Faro (five times per week) and Malaga (four times per week)

From Stuttgart

  • A total of 75 direct destinations
  • Up to 41 weekly flights to Mallorca
  • New connection: four flights per week to Stockholm

Eurowings connects Europe – program expansion in Graz, Prague and Stockholm
Eurowings passengers from Germany are not the only ones who can look forward to a wide variety of offers. Passengers from the Czech Republic, Sweden and Austria will also be able to choose from a wider selection in the summer of 2023. Twelve vacation and city destinations will be accessible from Graz in the new schedule. From Prague, the program will include 18 routes in the future – Geneva, Rhodes and Corfu are new destinations. In the future, Eurowings will also connect the Swedish capital with Rome and Stuttgart.

 

 

 

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Europe’s most festive cities for a magical Christmas https://dev.traveldailymedia.com/europes-most-festive-cities-for-a-magical-christmas/ Sat, 19 Nov 2022 06:14:35 +0000 https://www.traveldailymedia.com/?p=747005 The post Europe’s most festive cities for a magical Christmas appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Brand TD.

Cities around the world transform into festive wonderlands during the Christmas season, and the cities in Europe are among some of the most impressive

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Cities around the world transform into festive wonderlands during the Christmas season, and the cities in Europe are among some of the most impressive. But this leaves the problem of trying to decide which ones to head to when planning a festive weekend getaway! Which cities should be at the top of your Christmas list this year?

Holidu, the booking portal for holiday rentals (www.holidu.co.uk) has crunched the data to reveal which cities in Europe are the most festive and make for the perfect weekend break for all Christmas lovers! The Index looks at the number of Instagram hashtags, Global Search Volume, number of Christmas markets and the average number of snowy days in December to reveal the cities that are the ultimate winter wonderland.

  1. Berlin, Germany

It’s official – Berlin takes first prize as the most festive city to celebrate the holidays in Europe.

This city is no stranger to Christmas markets, with the city’s first Christmas market dating back to 1530. With over 80 markets scattered across the city, you are sure to find the one that’s right for you. Be blown away by Frankfurter Allee’s Christmas Carnival and enjoy a steaming cup of Glühwein as you take in the colourful lights, or head to Berlin Town Hall and ride the iconic Ferris wheel. Whatever your cup of tea, Berlin is sure to fill you with festive wonder this holiday season.

  1. Vienna, Austria

Skating into second place on our list is the Austrian capital of Vienna. With its first

“December Market” dating all the way back to 1298, Vienna is a festive wonderland you don’t want to miss this holiday season. Head over to Rathausplatz, Vienna’s most famous Christmas market, and immerse yourself in a winter wonderland. As one of the most searched and Instagrammed holiday destinations, it is no surprise that people flock to Vienna to feel festive during the Winter season.

  1. Prague, Czech Republic

Next on our list is Prague, Czech Republic. While having fewer in numbers of Christmas

markets, Prague still packs a punch with its searches and Instagram hashtags for the winter season. People are not only drawn to its picturesque cobblestoned streets and festive markets, but also its affordability! Check out some of the main attractions like the magnificent Christmas trees located in both Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square. Prague is a must- visit this winter if you are looking to get festive!

  1. Munich, Germany

Germany, famous for its Christmas markets, takes another one of the top-five spots on our list with Munich, Bavaria’s capital. With roots stretching back to 1310 when the first official ‘Christmas market’ took place in Germany, it holds some of the oldest Christmas markets. Markets span the city during this festive time, so you are sure to be spoilt for choice. Check out the bustling Christkindlmarkt in Marienplatz square with over 150 stalls, or the charming Christmas Village at the Munich Residenz.

  1. Copenhagen, Denmark

Rounding off the top 5 is Copenhagen, Denmark. In the heart of the Old Town, you will find the Julemarked in Højbro Plads. Known for its ‘international feel’ it is modelled off a

traditional German Christmas market with everything from waffles to Glühwein. If you are in for a thrill, check out Tivoli Gardens, the market in the second-oldest amusement park in the world! If you are after tradition, you will want to check out Julemarked Kongens Nytorv! You are sure to find the perfect market for you in Copenhagen this winter season.

  1. Stockholm, Sweden

A weekend in Sweden’s capital is a magical way to get into the festive spirit. The festivities kick off in mid-November and we recommend you head to Stortorget Christmas Market which is located in the Old Town and is the oldest in the country, dating back to 1837! Here you’ll be spoilt for choice with more than 40 stalls offering gifts, food, and beverages. Enjoy some glögg (mulled wine) and nibble on a gingerbread cookie as you wander through the streets decorated with sparkling lights.

 London, United Kingdom

London wins the prize for being the most searched-for city out of the entire ranking, with an average of 11,000 searches globally for “Christmas in London” per month. It also takes the crown for being the most Instagrammed, with 231,863 hashtags and counting. When looking for things to do and if Christmas markets aren’t your thing, London has so much more to offer to get you in the Christmas spirit. How about a festive musical adaptation of one of the worlds most beloved Christmas movies? Yes, you can treat yourself to a performance of ELF The Musical at the Dominion Theatre from 14 November 2022 to 07 January 2023. Buddy the Elf is waiting for you!

  1. Salzburg, Austria

Salzburg has a fairytale-like village vibe that is only emphasised during snowy winter. It is also the birthplace and home of some legends, most notably Mozart, but also Joseph Mohr, who wrote the words to “Silent Night”, one of the most famous Christmas carols in the world. During the festive period, there are many sing-alongs and concerts that honour this city’s musical heritage and spread Christmas cheer by singing loud for all to hear! Salzburg is also a great city break to choose if you’d like to spend a day on the slopes, thanks to its close proximity to the mountains.

  1. Paris, France

Paris might not be the most typical destination that springs to mind when planning a festive escape, but also, who doesn’t like the idea of seeing the Eiffel Tower surrounded by a blanket of snow? One of Paris’ best festive offerings is its impressive light displays that you can find around the city. Head to the Champs Elysées to admire one of the most magical festive sights. Another huge plus when heading to Paris in December is that you will escape the masses of tourists that you would typically encounter during the other seasons. A wintery stroll around Montmartre without the crowds? Yes, please!

  1. Oslo, Norway

Finally, the last city securing its place as one of the most festive cities in Europe this year is Oslo! Despite being in 10th place overall, Oslo is actually the city out of the top 10 where there is the highest chance of snowfall in December – totalling an average of 17 snow days!

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Emirates and Gulf Air launch codeshare partnership https://dev.traveldailymedia.com/emirates-and-gulf-air-launch-codeshare-partnership/ Fri, 11 Nov 2022 00:04:03 +0000 https://www.traveldailymedia.com/?p=743179 The post Emirates and Gulf Air launch codeshare partnership appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Brand TD.

Emirates and Gulf Air have officially signed a unilateral codeshare partnership, starting this December. The new agreement will offer easy connections and expanded choices for Gulf Air customers connecting to Dubai and onwards to a host of Emirates destinations across Europe, Africa, South America and the Far East. 

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Emirates and Gulf Air have officially signed a unilateral codeshare partnership, starting this December. The new agreement will offer easy connections and expanded choices for Gulf Air customers connecting to Dubai and onwards to a host of Emirates destinations across Europe, Africa, South America and the Far East.

The agreement was signed on the first day of the Bahrain Airshow, signalling a growing relationship between both airlines following on the framework of cooperation established last year.  The agreement was signed by Tim Clark, president Emirates Airline and Gulf Air’s chief executive officer Captain Waleed Al Alawi in the presence of Zayed R. Alzayani, Gulf Air’s Chairman of the Board of Directors. The signing ceremony was also attended by members of each airline’s executive management teams.

Tim Clark, President Emirates Airline said: “We are pleased to partner with Gulf Air to offer their customers greater access and strong connection opportunities to unique destinations on our network, complemented by Emirates’ signature in-flight service and hospitality throughout their journey from Dubai.  We look forward to working together and achieving more with Gulf Air in the near future, and further strengthening our relationship.”

Captain Waleed Al Alawi, Gulf Air chief executive officer commented: “Our relationship with Emirates Airline has always been strong and today we are reaching a higher level of collaboration with many more opportunities in the horizon between the two carriers. This partnership will empower both of us to offer a more elevated experience to passengers and widen their travel options.”

The expanded partnership will see Gulf Air place their marketing code “GF” on Emirates operated flights beyond Dubai to a selection of some of the most attractive global tourism hotspots, offering new holiday options for Gulf Air customers. Travellers will be able to connect to points including Budapest, Prague, Warsaw, Algeria, Tunis, Bali, Hanoi, HoChi Minh City, Taipei and Sao Paulo.

The new codeshare agreement’s mix of unique points comes as travellers from the GCC have become more well-informed, value-driven and savvy, increasingly looking for new, diverse experiences and attractions beyond their traditional holiday destinations.

The new partnership will also offer customers the convenience of combined ticketing and check-in, a unified policy and seamless transfers for baggage, and competitive single fares on a multi-airline journey when connecting on Emirates. Customers can book their travel on Gulf Air’s website, through Gulf Air point of sales and online travel agencies as well as with local travel agents.

Emirates currently has codeshare cooperation agreements in place with 26 airline partners and two rail companies around the world, expanding its network reach to over 300 cities.

 

 

 

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The Best Student-Friendly Countries to Visit https://dev.traveldailymedia.com/the-best-student-friendly-countries-to-visit/ Fri, 29 Apr 2022 02:20:27 +0000 https://eturbonews.com/?p=3067896 The post The Best Student-Friendly Countries to Visit appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Brand TD.

The Best Student-Friendly Countries to Visit -
Modern students have all opportunities today to quench their wanderlust. Besides, many of them can easily afford it, and more and more young people prefer to combine their study and work to save up money o...

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The Best Student-Friendly Countries to Visit

Modern students have all opportunities today to quench their wanderlust. Besides, many of them can easily afford it, and more and more young people prefer to combine their study and work to save up money on such valuable things as traveling. Suppose you are one of those who can’t imagine your life without moving from place to place, experiencing various emotions from discovering new spots of the earth. In that case, you can look through the following recommendations on the […]

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Hot hotel openings: The only hotel on top of a racetrack and more https://dev.traveldailymedia.com/hot-hotel-openings-22-nov-2019/ Fri, 22 Nov 2019 03:09:13 +0000 https://www.traveldailymedia.com/?p=528556 The post Hot hotel openings: The only hotel on top of a racetrack and more appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Brand TD.

From Abu Dhabi's world-famous Yas Island to India's majestic state of Himachal Pradesh and the city centre of Czech Republic — here's this week's round-up of hot hotel openings.

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From Abu Dhabi’s world-famous Yas Island to India’s majestic state of Himachal Pradesh and the city centre of Czech Republic — here’s this week’s round-up of hot hotel openings:

W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island

W Abu Dhabi - Yas Island

W Hotels Worldwide, part of Marriott International Inc, has announced the highly-anticipated debut of the W brand in the UAE capital with the opening of W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island.

Located in the heart of Abu Dhabi’s entertainment epicentre, the hotel is the brand’s second W Hotel to open this year in the United Arab Emirates after W Dubai – The Palm, and has the bragging rights to be the only hotel in the world located atop a Grand Prix racetrack.

W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island is surrounded by iconic landmarks, located just 15-minutes from Abu Dhabi International Airport at the doorstep of the famed Yas Marina Circuit and Yas Marina. The hotel is also in close proximity to Ferrari World, Warner Brothers Studios and Abu Dhabi’s biggest shopping centre, the Yas Mall.

“A new chapter for both the brand and the capital”

“W Hotels seeks dynamic destinations that are multi-dimensional and ever-evolving, and Abu Dhabi, with its cultural DNA that honours a millennium of tradition while boldly embracing what’s new and next, is an ideal fit for the brand,” said Anthony Ingham, global brand leader, W Hotels Worldwide.

“The arrival of W in Abu Dhabi marks a new chapter for both the brand and the capital. While paying tribute to the essence and spirit of the city, the hotel creates a modern, energetic and stylish escape unlike anything else.”

Hyatt Regency Dharamshala Resort

Hyatt Regency Dharamshala Resort

Hyatt Hotels Corporation has opened its first mountain resort property in India, Hyatt Regency Dharamshala Resort, in the scenic Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh.

Surrounded by mountains and lush forests, the resort’s signature Hyatt Regency offerings and insightful service will now be available to travellers visiting the region. The hotel’s opening marks an important step for the growth of the Hyatt Regency brand in India, joining 11 other Hyatt Regency properties in the country.

“Inspired by the hill station’s unique heritage and culture”

“We are thrilled to announce the opening of our first Hyatt Regency branded hotel in the majestic state of Himachal Pradesh,” said Sunjae Sharma, vice president – India operations, Hyatt.

“The resort is inspired by the hill station’s unique heritage and culture — designed to offer a comprehensive range of premium experiences while ensuring guests feel connected to nature. With the popular tourist destination of Dharamshala attracting an increasing number of domestic and international travellers, we are confident the Hyatt Regency brand is the perfect fit to cater to them, providing personalised care and hospitality.”

Hard Rock Hotel Prague

Hard Rock Hotel Prague

Hard Rock International continues the growth of its European hotel portfolio with the announcement of Hard Rock Hotel Prague, set to open its doors in the capital in 2023.

Augmenting its 75-country brand presence, Hard Rock has announced its latest venture into the Czech Republic, bringing the signature Hard Rock energy to this dynamic cultural hub. Located within the wider city centre, the expansive hotel, with an impressive 523 rooms and suites, will boast magnificent views overlooking Letna Park and the Prague Castle from the hotel’s rooftop Sky Bar.

“We greatly appreciate the opportunity to work on this hotel with Hard Rock International, which will be the operator and tenant of the property. It is undoubtedly a respected hotel chain that will complement the existing portfolio of Prague hotels. For EP Real Estate, this is a key project in the domestic market, which we have been paying maximum attention to since the initial planning stage,” said Michal Viktorin, EP Real Estate Director.

We’re rounding up the latest hotel openings every Friday — click here to see the full list. 

You may also send us press releases via hospitality@traveldailymedia.com.

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W Abu Dhabi – Exterior Hyatt Regency Dharamshala Resort Hard Rock Hotels Take Center Stage in Prague
China to get new connection to Serbia https://dev.traveldailymedia.com/china-get-new-connection-serbia/ Tue, 08 Aug 2017 09:17:37 +0000 http://www.traveldailymedia.com/?p=354289 The post China to get new connection to Serbia appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Brand TD.

China will get its first air link to Serbia next month, when Hainan Airlines launches its new route between Beijing and Belgrade. Commencing on 15 September 2017, the new long-haul route will be operated twice a week as an extension of the airline’s existing Beijing-Prague route. This follows the granting of fifth freedom right to […]

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Belgrade
Belgrade

China will get its first air link to Serbia next month, when Hainan Airlines launches its new route between Beijing and Belgrade.

Commencing on 15 September 2017, the new long-haul route will be operated twice a week as an extension of the airline’s existing Beijing-Prague route. This follows the granting of fifth freedom right to Chinese airlines, allowing them to operate flights from the Czech Republic.

The new Serbian service will be offered every Monday and Friday aboard Hainan Airlines’ Airbus A330 aircraft, which features flat-bed seats in business class.

This will mark the first time a Chinese airline has flown to Belgrade in 25 years, since the suspension of Air China’s service in 1992, at the time when Serbia still formed part of Yugoslavia.

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shutterstock_324282698 Belgrade
Asian air route updates from Hainan Airlines, AirAsia, Qatar Airways and more https://dev.traveldailymedia.com/asian-air-route-updates-hainan-airlines-airasia-qatar-airways/ Mon, 24 Jul 2017 07:32:39 +0000 http://www.traveldailymedia.com/?p=308984 The post Asian air route updates from Hainan Airlines, AirAsia, Qatar Airways and more appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Brand TD.

China gets reconnected to Belgrade Where? Beijing (China) to Belgrade (Serbia) When? Twice a week, effective 15 September 2017 Who? Hainan Airlines Why? Expanding links with Europe as an extension of its Beijing-Prague route. Hainan Airlines will become the first Chinese carrier to fly to Belgrade since Air China in 1992 Anything else? The Serbian […]

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China gets reconnected to Belgrade

Where? Beijing (China) to Belgrade (Serbia)
When? Twice a week, effective 15 September 2017
Who? Hainan Airlines
Why? Expanding links with Europe as an extension of its Beijing-Prague route. Hainan Airlines will become the first Chinese carrier to fly to Belgrade since Air China in 1992
Anything else? The Serbian capital’s airport is named after Nikola Tesla, despite the fact that the inventor and physicist was born in modern day Croatia and emigrated to the US in his 20s

Saudia adds new services to southern India

Where? Riyadh (Saudi Arabia) to Thiruvananthapuram (India)
When? Three times a week, effective 1 October 2017
Who? Saudi Arabian Airlines
Why? Catering for strong trade and employment traffic between India and Saudi Arabia
Anything else? This is one of two routes to Thiruvananthapuram planned by Saudia, along with another direct service from Jeddah

China Eastern Airlines links Xi’an with Prague

Where? Xi’an (China) to Prague (Czech Republic)
When? Four times a week, effective 29 October 2017
Who? China Eastern Airlines
Why? Chinese airline aims to boost Prague route with addition of stop in Xi’an, China’s ancient capital and home of the Terracotta Warriors
Anything else? Flights will continue onwards between Xi’an and Shanghai, altering the previous non-stop route

Beijing Capital Airlines adds latest Spanish service

Where? Qingdao (China) to Madrid, pictured (Spain)
When? Three times a week, effective 31 October 2017
Who? Beijing Capital Airlines
Why? Fast-expanding Chinese airline continues to cater for rising outbound demand for travel to Spain and the Iberian Peninsula
Anything else? The airline will launch its inaugural flights to Lisbon, the capital of neighbouring Portugal, later this month

AirAsia to launch KL-Davao route

Where? Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) to Davao (Philippines)
When? Four times a week, effective 21 December 2017
Who? AirAsia
Why? AirAsia CEO Tony Fernandes said he believes “Davao has the potential to be the international gateway for ASEAN to the southern Philippines”
Anything else? The route will be operated by AirAsia Malaysia under the “AK” flight code, becoming its fourth Philippine route from KL

Qatar Airways adds capital connection to Canberra

Where? Doha (Qatar) to Canberra, pictured (Australia)
When? Daily, effective 12 February 2018
Who? Qatar Airways
Why? Boosting the airline’s Australian network and serving government traffic at the expanding Canberra Airport
Anything else? Flights will operate via Sydney, but Qatar Airways will not be able to sell seats on the Sydney-Canberra legs of the route

 

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Hainan Airlines Saudia China Eastern Airlines Madrid AirAsia Canberra
Where to Stay: New hotels in Sri Lanka, the US and Czech Republic https://dev.traveldailymedia.com/where-to-stay-new-hotels-in-sri-lanka-the-us-and-czech-republic/ Fri, 10 Feb 2017 10:37:57 +0000 http://www.traveldailymedia.com/?p=246995 The post Where to Stay: New hotels in Sri Lanka, the US and Czech Republic appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Brand TD.

Jie Jie Beach by Jetwing Location: Overlooking the Indian Ocean in Panadura, on Sri Lanka’s southwest coast, 1.5 hours’ drive from Colombo Grade: Upscale Keys: 180 Facilities: Western and Chinese restaurants, bar, karaoke lounge, outdoor pool with bar, spa Meeting space: Separate building for large-scale events including a 500-pax banqueting hall, two conference rooms, breakout […]

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Jie Jie Beach by Jetwing

Jie Jie Beach by Jetwing
Jie Jie Beach by Jetwing

Location: Overlooking the Indian Ocean in Panadura, on Sri Lanka’s southwest coast, 1.5 hours’ drive from Colombo
Grade: Upscale
Keys: 180
Facilities: Western and Chinese restaurants, bar, karaoke lounge, outdoor pool with bar, spa
Meeting space: Separate building for large-scale events including a 500-pax banqueting hall, two conference rooms, breakout rooms and a business centre
They say: “Placed on a glorious strip of beach, this tropical escape takes you into a world of its own with its ethnic design and open spaces”
We say: Facilities and proximity to Colombo position the hotel perfectly for the Chinese MICE market
Opening: Already open

El San Juan Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton

El San Juan Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton
El San Juan Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton

Location: Directly on the beach in the Isla Verde district of San Juan, the capital of Puerto Rico
Grade: Upper-upscale
Keys: 388
Facilities: Four pools, a spa and multiple F&B outlets, including six bars and a beach club
Meeting space: 1,000m² ballroom
They say: “With the reopening today El San Juan Hotel, we are proud to continue our growth throughout the Caribbean by welcoming it as the first Curio Collection property”
We say: Having previously hosted legends like Sammy Davis Jr and Tony Bennet, it’s good to see this classic 1950s hotel restored to its former glory
Opening: Already open

Hotel Indigo Los Angeles Downtown

Hotel Indigo Los Angeles Downtown
Hotel Indigo Los Angeles Downtown

Location: One of four towers in downtown LA’s new Metropolis development
Grade: Upper-upscale
Keys: 350
Facilities: Two restaurants, lobby lounge, 18th floor bar, fitness centre
Meeting space: Almost 2,000m² of function space covering 11 rooms
They say: “Hotel Indigo Los Angeles Downtown hotel will be the new defining flagship property for the rapidly-growing Hotel Indigo brand”
We say: The quirky Hotel Indigo brand is likely to appeal to travellers in “La La Land”, providing a welcome alternative to the usual chain hotels
Opening: March 2017

W Prague

Prague
Prague

Location: The former Grand Europa Hotel on Wenceslas Square, in the historic centre of the Czech capital
Grade: Luxury
Keys: 154
Facilities: Several restaurants, rooftop bar, indoor pool, fitness centre, spa
Meeting space: 350m² of “ultra-modern event space”
They say: “The historic structure will be combined with a modern new building to create a stunning blend of old world glamour and bold, contemporary design”
We say: The modern extension of this historic building needs to be done sensitively, but the end result is likely to be an impressive addition to the Prague landscape. The rooftop bar is likely to become a popular local venue
Opening: 2020

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Jie Jie Beach by Jetwing Jie Jie Beach by Jetwing San Juan El San Juan Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton Hotel Indigo Los Angeles Downtown Hotel Indigo Los Angeles Downtown Prague Prague
Vietnam Airlines prepares for Czech launch https://dev.traveldailymedia.com/vietnam-airlines-prepares-for-czech-launch/ Tue, 20 Dec 2016 07:56:42 +0000 http://www.traveldailymedia.com/?p=245260 The post Vietnam Airlines prepares for Czech launch appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Brand TD.

Vietnam Airlines could deploy its Boeing 787 Dreamliner on the new route

Vietnam Airlines has appointed a new General Sales Agent (GSA) in Prague, ahead of the launch of its first ever flights to the Czech Republic. The Vietnam News Agency (VNA) reports that a ceremony was held on 14 December 2016 to mark the occasion, attended by Vietnam’s Ambassador to the Czech Republic, Truong Manh Son. […]

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Vietnam Airlines could deploy its Boeing 787 Dreamliner on the new route

Vietnam Airlines has appointed a new General Sales Agent (GSA) in Prague, ahead of the launch of its first ever flights to the Czech Republic.

The Vietnam News Agency (VNA) reports that a ceremony was held on 14 December 2016 to mark the occasion, attended by Vietnam’s Ambassador to the Czech Republic, Truong Manh Son.

Vietnam Airlines could deploy its Boeing 787 Dreamliner on the new route
Vietnam Airlines could deploy its Boeing 787 Dreamliner on the new route

While details of the national carrier’s planned Prague services have not been confirmed, they are likely to make use of Vietnam Airlines’ new fleet of long-haul aircraft, including the Airbus A350 and Boeing 787 Dreamliner.

These modern jets have already been deployed on routes to several European cities, including London, Paris and Frankfurt.

The new route, which would likely be served from Hanoi, would mark the first direct connection between the Czech Republic and Southeast Asia. The only other Asian carriers operating to Prague’s Václav Havel Airport at present are China Eastern Airlines, Hainan Airlines, Korean Air and Sichuan Airlines.

Vietnam Airlines and Czech Airlines are partners in the SkyTeam alliance and the new flights could also open up codeshare opportunities.

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VNA B787 Vietnam Airlines could deploy its Boeing 787 Dreamliner on the new route
China’s Sichuan Airlines starts flying to Prague https://dev.traveldailymedia.com/chinas-sichuan-airlines-starts-flying-to-prague/ Mon, 15 Aug 2016 02:25:54 +0000 http://www.traveldailymedia.com/?p=239850 The post China’s Sichuan Airlines starts flying to Prague appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Brand TD.

Sichuan Airlines will fly an Airbus A330 to Auckland (credit: Sergei Bachlakov)

Sichuan Airlines, which is based in the Chinese city of Chengdu, has launched flights to Prague – only its second destination in Europe. The new direct service to the Czech Republic took off from Chengdu’s Shuangliu International Airport on Friday (12 August 2016). The scheduled flights will now run twice a week using a twin-aisle […]

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Sichuan Airlines will fly an Airbus A330 to Auckland (credit: Sergei Bachlakov)
Sichuan Airlines will fly an Airbus A330 to Auckland (credit: Sergei Bachlakov)
Sichuan Airlines will fly an Airbus A330 to Prague (credit: Sergei Bachlakov)

Sichuan Airlines, which is based in the Chinese city of Chengdu, has launched flights to Prague – only its second destination in Europe.

The new direct service to the Czech Republic took off from Chengdu’s Shuangliu International Airport on Friday (12 August 2016). The scheduled flights will now run twice a week using a twin-aisle Airbus A330 aircraft.

On the outbound leg, flight 3U8295 departs Chengdu every Tuesday and Friday at 1245 and arrives in Prague at 1715. The return flight, 3U8296, leaves the Czech capital on the same days at 1915 and arrives back in Chengdu at 1045 the next morning. The flight time is approximately 10 hours.

Prague becomes the airline’s second European destination, following Moscow. But its long-haul expansion is expected to continue in future, with new routes to Los Angeles and Auckland expected to commence in September and December 2016 respectively.

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shutterstock_291940193 Sichuan Airlines will fly an Airbus A330 to Prague (credit: Sergei Bachlakov)
Prague cheapest European city for celebrations https://dev.traveldailymedia.com/prague-cheapest-european-city-for-celebrations/ Thu, 19 May 2016 13:05:45 +0000 http://www.traveldailymedia.com/?p=236610 The post Prague cheapest European city for celebrations appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Brand TD.

London might be the favourite European city destination for special celebrations, but Prague is the cheapest if you’re planning to drink a lot.  That’s the consensus of the Celebration Breaks Drinks Barometer from Post Office Travel Money, which conducted a consumer research poll of cities most popular for a celebration break. Almost half of those […]

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London might be the favourite European city destination for special celebrations, but Prague is the cheapest if you’re planning to drink a lot. 

Prague is a popular city-break destination among Brits.
Prague is a popular city-break destination among Brits.

That’s the consensus of the Celebration Breaks Drinks Barometer from Post Office Travel Money, which conducted a consumer research poll of cities most popular for a celebration break.

Almost half of those visiting cities across Europe are now there to celebrate an anniversary or big event – ranging from birthdays, retirement and forthcoming weddings to marriage proposals – with London, Paris and Barcelona the top three destination choices.

Travellers planning these celebration trips rate ‘a good range of bars and restaurants’ as their top priority – with Prague offering the lowest prices for drinks, according to the research, which involved a cost comparison of 12 drinks in 16 European celebration capitals.

The Czech capital’s tally of £28.74 for the average price of drinks, ranging from beer and wine to cocktails and spirits, toppled Budapest (£30.20) from last year’s top spot to second place.  Prague’s prices, down eight percent year-on-year, are also less than half of those in 10 of the 16 cities surveyed, including London (£60.70), Barcelona (£60.56) and Paris (£63.26).

The Post Office research found that bargain-hunters should head to cities in Eastern Europe.  Aside from Prague and Budapest, three others – Krakow (£33.82), Riga (£49.95) and Tallinn (£53.11) – made it a clean sweep for Eastern European cities at the top of the table.

Majorca’s capital, Palma (£56.72), emerged as cheapest in Western Europe. Its barometer cost for the 12 drinks is also lower than in two other Spanish seaside celebration cities.

“Our research shows that the cost of a special celebration evening out can vary dramatically, depending on your choice of drink and which city you visit,” said Andrew Brown of Post Office Travel Money. “Check out prices before booking a city break because some advance homework can help to ensure the bar bill doesn’t bust the celebration budget.”

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Prague2 web Prague is a popular city-break destination among Brits.
Emirates commits A380 to Prague route https://dev.traveldailymedia.com/emirates-commits-a380-to-prague-route/ Thu, 05 May 2016 08:09:18 +0000 http://www.traveldailymedia.com/?p=236059 The post Emirates commits A380 to Prague route appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Brand TD.

Emirates has commenced A380 flights to Prague, becoming the first and only airline to operate a superjumbo service to the Czech capital. The Prague-Dubai route was launched on 1 July 2010 with a daily A330 service and Emirates has since carried over 1.1 million passengers between the two cities. “We are pleased to add Prague too […]

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Emirates has commenced A380 flights to Prague, becoming the first and only airline to operate a superjumbo service to the Czech capital.

The Prague-Dubai route was launched on 1 July 2010 with a daily A330 service and Emirates has since carried over 1.1 million passengers between the two cities.

“We are pleased to add Prague too to our list of more than 40 A380 destination cities and introduce our innovative, best-in-class onboard product and renowned service to Czech customers,” said said Thierry Antinori, Emirates executive VP and CCO.

The route operates as EK139 and EK140, served by an A380 aircraft that can accommodate 519 passengers in a three-class configuration.

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Emirates’ A380 touches down in Taiwan https://dev.traveldailymedia.com/emirates-a380-touches-down-in-taiwan/ Tue, 03 May 2016 05:04:19 +0000 http://www.traveldailymedia.com/?p=235913 The post Emirates’ A380 touches down in Taiwan appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Brand TD.

Emirates has launched two new routes using its Airbus A380 aircraft, including its first superjumbo service to Taiwan. The inaugural A380 flight from Dubai to Taipei landed at Taoyuan International Airport at 1650 on Monday, where it was greeted by a traditional water cannon salute. The airline’s second new A380 route, to Prague, touched down […]

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Emirates' first A380 flight to Taipei gets a water cannon salute
Emirates’ first A380 flight to Taipei gets a water cannon salute

Emirates has launched two new routes using its Airbus A380 aircraft, including its first superjumbo service to Taiwan.

The inaugural A380 flight from Dubai to Taipei landed at Taoyuan International Airport at 1650 on Monday, where it was greeted by a traditional water cannon salute.

The airline’s second new A380 route, to Prague, touched down in the Czech capital later that day. Both routes were previously served using Boeing 777 aircraft.

“Taiwan is a significant market for Emirates and we have witnessed a strong and steady growth in demand since our start of services in 2014. We are committed to cultivating the market through continuous investment and we are confident that the launch of our new A380 service will open up further opportunities in business and tourism between Taiwan and other countries,” said Thierry Antinori, Emirates’ executive vice president & chief commercial officer.

“We are pleased to add Prague too to our list of more than 40 A380 destination cities and introduce our innovative, best-in-class onboard product and renowned service to Czech customers. Czech travellers now have more opportunities to connect seamlessly with Emirates’ 150-plus destinations around the world, through one single stop in Dubai.”

Emirates has deployed its highest capacity aircraft on the Taipei route – a 615-seat, two-class version of the A380 that comes equipped with 58 seats in business class and 557 in economy. The Prague route will be operated using a three-class, 518-seat A380.

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Taipei-1 Emirates flies the A380 to Taipei
China Eastern Airlines flies to Prague https://dev.traveldailymedia.com/china-eastern-airlines-flies-to-prague/ Fri, 01 Apr 2016 02:50:37 +0000 http://www.traveldailymedia.com/?p=234590 The post China Eastern Airlines flies to Prague appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Brand TD.

Prague

China Eastern Airlines will launch a new direct service to the Czech Republic this summer. Commencing on 22 June 2016, the airline will offer three weekly flights between Shanghai and Prague. Services will depart Shanghai’s Pudong International Airport every Wednesday, Friday and Sunday at 0045, arriving at Prague’s Vaclav Havel Airport at 0635. The return […]

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Prague
Prague
Prague

China Eastern Airlines will launch a new direct service to the Czech Republic this summer.

Commencing on 22 June 2016, the airline will offer three weekly flights between Shanghai and Prague.

Services will depart Shanghai’s Pudong International Airport every Wednesday, Friday and Sunday at 0045, arriving at Prague’s Vaclav Havel Airport at 0635. The return flight will leave the Czech capital at 0835 and arrive back in Shanghai at 0105 the next day.

The route will be operated using a two-class 264-seat Airbus A330 aircraft, configured with 24 flat-bed seats in business class and 240 seats in economy.

China Eastern will become the third Chinese carrier flying to the Czech capital. Hainan Airlines launched scheduled flights from Beijing in September 2015 and Sichuan Airlines connected Prague with Chengdu in February 2016.

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shutterstock_212586004 Prague
First flights connect China and Czech Republic https://dev.traveldailymedia.com/227159/ Thu, 24 Sep 2015 03:32:11 +0000 http://www.traveldailymedia.com/?p=227159 The post First flights connect China and Czech Republic appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Brand TD.

Hainan Airlines celebrates the launch of its new route

Hainan Airlines has continued its European expansion with the launch of flights to Prague – the first direct service between China and the Czech Republic. Flights between Beijing and the Czech capital commenced on 23 September and will now operate three times a week, departing Beijing every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 0230 and arriving […]

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Hainan Airlines celebrates the launch of its new route
Hainan Airlines celebrates the launch of its new route
Hainan Airlines celebrates the launch of its new route

Hainan Airlines has continued its European expansion with the launch of flights to Prague – the first direct service between China and the Czech Republic.

Flights between Beijing and the Czech capital commenced on 23 September and will now operate three times a week, departing Beijing every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 0230 and arriving at Prague’s Vaclav Havel Airport at 0710. The return service will then leave at 1330, arriving back in Beijing at 0530 the next day.

Hainan Airlines will operate the route using a Boeing 767 aircraft configured with 34 seats in first class and 199 seats in economy.

Prague becomes Hainan Airlines’ fifth destination in Europe (excluding Russia), following Brussels, Berlin, Paris and Rome.

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HNA launch Hainan Airlines celebrates the launch of its new route
Dublin new budget capital of culture https://dev.traveldailymedia.com/dublin-new-budget-capital-of-culture/ Tue, 25 Aug 2015 11:16:08 +0000 http://www.traveldailymedia.com/?p=226017 The post Dublin new budget capital of culture appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Brand TD.

A new Post Office Travel Money Cost of Culture report has revealed that Dublin is the city where culture costs the least.  The Irish capital was found to be much cheaper than Warsaw, Budapest and Prague, the Eastern European cities that set the pace for a culture-cramming break a year ago. Based on six cultural attractions – […]

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A new Post Office Travel Money Cost of Culture report has revealed that Dublin is the city where culture costs the least. 

Dublin, Ireland.
Dublin, Ireland.

The Irish capital was found to be much cheaper than Warsaw, Budapest and Prague, the Eastern European cities that set the pace for a culture-cramming break a year ago.

Based on six cultural attractions – visits to Ireland’s National Museum, National Gallery and Trinity College to see the Old Library and Book of Kells as well as ballet, opera and musical nights out – Dublin’s cultural barometer basket weighed in at just over £76, more than 25 per cent cheaper than a year ago.

Not only does this make the city the best value of 17 cultural capitals surveyed by the Post Office but also less than half the price of 10 competitors, including London.

Dublin’s six cultural highlights cost less than one ticket in London for The Barber of Seville (£115, London Coliseum) or Romeo & Juliet (£115, Royal Opera House).

London remains Europe’s most expensive city for culture after registering a 12.5 per cent rise in the Cost of Culture basket to £287.50 compared with last year.

Paris is almost as expensive at £247.64 but prices in both cities are far lower than in New York, where transatlantic travellers can expect to pay £491.73.

In New York a category 2 ticket for the Metropolitan Opera (Otello) will set UK visitors back £212 while the New York City Ballet (Balanchine) costs over £177.

Budapest has retained its position as second cheapest in the survey at £91.31 for the six cultural highlights, although prices are up 13.6 per cent compared with a year ago.

For holidaymakers who prefer the idea of mixing sunshine with a city break, Lisbon looks to be best value.

The Portuguese capital scored with the third cheapest barometer cost of £94.41.

Despite the increased value of sterling, which gives UK visitors 13 per cent more Polish zloty for their pounds, Warsaw, last year’s best bargain, has fallen to fourth place because performance prices have mushroomed 51 per cent to £105.10 in 12 months.  Fifth-placed Prague has seen a 20 per cent increase to £111.52.

Andrew Brown of Post Office Travel Money said: “Last year we were advising holidaymakers to head east to Warsaw, Budapest and Prague for the lowest-priced highbrow break. Now Dublin has leapfrogged all three and looks a great bargain, especially as flights to the Irish capital are shorter and such good value too.”

However, the Post Office points out that the price you pay will depend on your taste in culture. For example, entry to the most popular museum, gallery and heritage site is free in Copenhagen, which is 10th placed in the overall barometer at a total price of £154.20, but these attractions cost over £35 in Amsterdam. And while there is free entry to the British Museum and National Gallery in London, the Tower of London rated as the most expensive heritage site at £24.50 – over twice the price of every other site surveyed.

The report found that the cheapest European cities for ballet, opera and music events cost a sixth of those in the most expensive cities.

A ticket for Lisbon’s National Ballet Company (Pedro e Ines) will cost £18.16 compared with £115 for the Royal Ballet’s Romeo & Juliet in London.

Similarly, holidaymakers will pay £21.34 a ticket for the Polish National Opera’s production of the Merchant of Venice compared with around £130 for Madam Butterfly at the Paris Opera.

In Budapest a programme of Strauss by the Hungarian National Philharmonic Orchestra costs £10.47 but a Warsaw National Philharmonic classical concert is £52.10.

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dublin Dublin, Ireland.
Newest Eurozone member tops poll for city-break value https://dev.traveldailymedia.com/newest-eurozone-member-tops-poll-for-city-break-value/ Sat, 28 Mar 2015 22:41:30 +0000 http://www.traveldailymedia.com/?p=219904 The post Newest Eurozone member tops poll for city-break value appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Brand TD.

The rise of Sterling has seen prices plunge in three-quarters of the European cities surveyed for the annual Post Office Travel Money City Costs Barometer.  The increasingly powerful pound means city breakers now have up to 22 per cent more to spend than a year ago, equating to £90 extra on a £500 transaction. For […]

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The rise of Sterling has seen prices plunge in three-quarters of the European cities surveyed for the annual Post Office Travel Money City Costs Barometer. 

Vilnius Old Town.
Vilnius Old Town.

The increasingly powerful pound means city breakers now have up to 22 per cent more to spend than a year ago, equating to £90 extra on a £500 transaction.

For the seventh year running, Eastern European cities will offer bargain hunters the best value – taking seven of the leading 10 places in the Post Office Travel Money survey of 28 cities. Lithuanian capital Vilnius, the newest eurozone member, tops the chart after registering a fall of over 15 per cent year-on-year in the overall cost of the barometer basket.

At £100.04 for a three-course evening meal for two with wine, drinks, two nights’ accommodation, airport transfers, sightseeing attractions and city transport, prices in Vilnius are well under half those of traditional favourites including Paris (£261.39), Rome (£276.83) and Amsterdam (£288.66).

It would be a clean sweep for the Baltic States, were it not for Budapest, which comes in second in the City Costs Barometer chart (£119.77). An 18.8 per cent fall in prices, the biggest drop in the barometer top 10, has enabled Riga (£120.39) to power past Lisbon and Prague and move up to third place from sixth last year. Completing the Baltic trio, Estonian capital Tallinn (£131.28, down 11.5 per cent) is in fourth place.

Amsterdam
Amsterdam

But Eastern European cities do not have a complete stranglehold on value. Athens (£131.35), new to the City Costs Barometer, enters the fray in fifth position. Boosted by the low cost of eating out at £29.15 for two, the Greek capital emerges as cheapest in Western Europe, taking that position from Lisbon (£141.37), which drops to eighth place. Prices in Athens are almost 55 per cent lower than in Amsterdam, the most expensive eurozone city.

Prague (£141.24) has fallen to seventh place because accommodation and sightseeing costs are higher than in other top performing cities. However, the Czech capital is still cheapest for meals and drinks. Eating out costs just £23.94 for two, while a bottle of beer is £1.13 and a coffee or Coca-Cola are each £1.08.

Dubrovnik is another eastern European city that has moved up the best value ratings on the back of low meal costs. At £32.52 for two, these are down 30 per cent and, together with the strong pound, have led to a 13.4 per cent barometer price fall. This takes the Croatian city to sixth place from eighth a year ago.

Krakow (£144.96) and Strasbourg (£169.60) complete the top 10 – two of five cities surveyed by Post Office Travel Money for the first time this year. Proving that French cities are not necessarily expensive, Strasbourg’s barometer total is over a third (35 per cent) cheaper than Paris (£261.39).

The other new cities surveyed by the Post Office are Madrid (£179.94) in 11th place, 26 per cent cheaper than Barcelona (£242.97, 20th in barometer), and Venice (£240.51, 19th in barometer), 13 per cent less than Rome (£276.83).

Andrew Brown of Post Office Travel Money said: “It’s a win/win situation for UK holidaymakers this year in European cities because prices are down in the majority of cities we surveyed, thanks to the soaring value of sterling. However, prices continue to vary significantly in different cities so it makes sense to do some holiday homework before taking the plunge and booking a capital break.

“Remember that the cost of meals and drinks will need to be added into the spending budget as city breaks are never All Inclusive holidays. Over the course of a two or three-night break, these can make a big difference to the cost of a city break and the low prices in Prague, Athens and Budapest will make these cities strong contenders for a bargain break to rival the Baltic States.”

For the third consecutive year, Stockholm (£311.01) is Europe’s most expensive city – although prices for UK visitors are down over 14 per cent. The biggest fall overall in the barometer was recorded in Vienna (£184.84) where the barometer basket has dropped by over 22 per cent.

In the USA, New York (£370.56) is almost four per cent cheaper than Boston (£385.33) and, while sterling is currently worth 9.4 per cent less against the dollar year-on-year, price falls in both cities will help to bridge the gap.

Among UK cities, a 14.7 per cent price fall has enabled Belfast (£198.10) to move ahead of Edinburgh (£210.75), while barometer prices are down 8.5 per cent in London (£266.65). The gap has widened this year between Belfast and Dublin (£238.99) to make the Irish capital over 20 per cent more expensive than its Northern Ireland competitor, despite registering an 7.8 per cent fall in prices.

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Vilnius Vilnius, Lithuania Amsterdam2 web Amsterdam
Hainan Airlines to order 30 more Dreamliners https://dev.traveldailymedia.com/hainan-airlines-to-order-30-more-dreamliners/ Fri, 27 Mar 2015 07:23:55 +0000 http://www.traveldailymedia.com/?p=219885 The post Hainan Airlines to order 30 more Dreamliners appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Brand TD.

Hainan Airlines is planning to order 30 more Boeing 787 Dreamliners. The airline said in a statement to the Shanghai Stock Exchange this week that it will select the larger B787-9 model, to complement its existing fleet of B787-8s. The order would be valued at US$7.7 billion at current list prices. Hainan Airlines took delivery […]

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Hainan Airlines currently operates a fleet of eight Boeing 787s
Hainan Airlines currently operates a fleet of eight Boeing 787s

Hainan Airlines is planning to order 30 more Boeing 787 Dreamliners.

The airline said in a statement to the Shanghai Stock Exchange this week that it will select the larger B787-9 model, to complement its existing fleet of B787-8s. The order would be valued at US$7.7 billion at current list prices.

Hainan Airlines took delivery of its first Dreamliner in July 2013 and now operates eight of the twin-aisle jets, with outstanding orders for a further four.

The Chinese carrier has mainly used the fuel-efficient jets to expand its trans-Pacific routes to the US, including routes to Boston, Chicago and Seattle.

Meanwhile, Hainan Airlines has also received permission to launch flights to Prague. Direct services from Beijing to the Czech capital will operate three times a week from 1 October 2015.

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Hainan Air B787 Hainan Airlines will soon launch the first direct flights from Manchester to Beijing.
TripAdvisor launches Neighbourhoods feature https://dev.traveldailymedia.com/tripadvisor-launches-neighbourhoods-feature/ Thu, 26 Feb 2015 13:54:03 +0000 http://www.traveldailymedia.com/?p=218619 The post TripAdvisor launches Neighbourhoods feature appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Brand TD.

TripAdvisor has launched its ‘Neighbourhoods’ feature in an effort to help users discover and explore neighbourhoods within popular tourist destinations.  “TripAdvisor’s new Neighbourhoods feature combines millions of traveller insights along with curated content to help travellers explore the distinctive parts of some of the world’s most travelled cities,” said Adam Medros, senior vice president, global […]

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TripAdvisor has launched its ‘Neighbourhoods’ feature in an effort to help users discover and explore neighbourhoods within popular tourist destinations. UK1

“TripAdvisor’s new Neighbourhoods feature combines millions of traveller insights along with curated content to help travellers explore the distinctive parts of some of the world’s most travelled cities,” said Adam Medros, senior vice president, global product, TripAdvisor.

“Big city neighbourhoods often feel like cities unto themselves—and our Neighbourhoods feature gives travellers a powerful tool to discover all of the unique spots these popular cities have to offer.”

When travellers visit select popular tourist destination pages with the Neighbourhoods feature on the TripAdvisor desktop site or mobile app (iPhone and Android), they will be able to view descriptions and attributes of each city’s primary neighborhoods, as well as a map displaying the neighbourhoods’ locations within the city. Travellers can then select a neighbourhood to explore the area in greater detail by viewing photos and reading candid traveller reviews about the best hotels, restaurants and attractions.

The feature is currently available in Barcelona, Berlin, Dubai, Hong Kong, London, Los Angeles, Madrid, New York City, Paris, Prague, Rome, San Francisco, Singapore and Tokyo with plans to launch in additional cities.

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UK1
Eastern Europe cities cheapest for Brits https://dev.traveldailymedia.com/eastern-europe-cities-cheapest-for-brits/ https://dev.traveldailymedia.com/eastern-europe-cities-cheapest-for-brits/#comments Mon, 25 Mar 2013 13:45:08 +0000 http://www.traveldailymedia.com/?p=149937 The post Eastern Europe cities cheapest for Brits appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Brand TD.

Cities in eastern Europe are still the cheapest for British tourists to visit while Lisbon tops those in the euro, a new Post Office report has found. Its City Costs Barometer saw Budapest’s forint currency trump Riga and Prague as the cheapest city when pricing up the total of 12 typical holiday items such as […]

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Budapest is cheapest for Brits while in-city

Cities in eastern Europe are still the cheapest for British tourists to visit while Lisbon tops those in the euro, a new Post Office report has found.

Its City Costs Barometer saw Budapest’s forint currency trump Riga and Prague as the cheapest city when pricing up the total of 12 typical holiday items such as a meal, local transport and sightseeing. The total cost for Budapest sat at GBP134.76,  less than a third of the most expensive cities of Stockholm (GBP420.36) and Copenhagen (GBP440.45).

However of the 25 cities surveyed prices had increased in 22 of them, with Stockholm seeing the biggest rise by 33%, followed by Riga (+30.7%), Boston (+28.4%) and Vienna (+26.3%). Costs dropped in Berlin, Prague and Lisbon, while of the cities using the euro Amsterdam and Rome were the priciest.

The Post Office named Dubrovnik as an emerging city break destination for Brits alongside Moscow, Krakow and Abu Dhabi although New York, Sydney and Rio de Janeiro topped the dream list. Domestically Belfast was the cheapest UK city to visit.

“Rising prices in most of the cities we surveyed, combined with the falling value of sterling, make it more important than ever to check prices for key items like meals, drinks and sightseeing before booking as these are costs that most city break tourists cannot avoid,” said Andrew Brown from Post Office Travel Money.

“There are big price variations across Europe – not just in the eurozone. This means UK holidaymakers can make their pounds stretch further by choosing a cheaper capital like Lisbon or Budapest and it seems that many people are doing just that as Post Office sales of Hungarian forint have surged by 141% in the year to date, compared with 2012,” he added.

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Hotel Spotlight: Hoffmeister Prague https://dev.traveldailymedia.com/hotel-spotlight-hoffmeister-prague/ Mon, 12 Mar 2012 10:55:02 +0000 http://www.traveldailymedia.com/?p=121598 The post Hotel Spotlight: Hoffmeister Prague appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Brand TD.

City breaks across Europe have been a top seller for many tour operators so far this year, so Simon Willmore takes a relaxing trip to Prague   Once more, the fascinating machinery whirrs into life. The cage of scolding red hot coals is picked up, levered vertically upwards and over, and plunged back down into […]

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Hotel Hoffmeister, Prague

City breaks across Europe have been a top seller for many tour operators so far this year, so Simon Willmore takes a relaxing trip to Prague

 

Once more, the fascinating machinery whirrs into life. The cage of scolding red hot coals is picked up, levered vertically upwards and over, and plunged back down into the bath of water, releasing perfumed vapour into the space around me. Now on its tenth cycle of this unusual process, I’m starting to get into the swing of things, but the first time I saw this extraordinary contraption I was genuinely taken aback, which is not the traditional consequence of a spa treatment; however, this is no ordinary spa.

 

The steam floods over towards me and gets to work, warming up my body and releasing all the tension in my weary muscles. I reach down to massage my legs, sore from exploring the land of make-believe that is Prague, and study the ornately decorated mosaic bench beneath my feet. My seat seems normal enough for such a routine, but my surroundings are as unorthodox as they come.

 

That’s because the Hoffmeister’s steam room is actually a steam cave, cut into the very rock of Prague’s hillside. Upon entering the spa, visitors start their ‘Steam Ceremony ’by being led down steps into a space that is thought to be 15th century underground torture room – a curious choice for a haven for relaxation. The usual amenities are present: sun loungers (despite the lack of exposure to sunlight), jug of chilled water, luxurious fluffy white dressing gown; but they are all found in an area not even three metres high, with the bare rock face still visible – showcased, even.

Hoffmeister's steam cave

 

The isolated nature of the place, despite being so central it is practically in the shadow of Prague Castle, actually helps the wind-down process after a long day of sightseeing, shopping, and generally soaking up the childlike magic of the Czech capital. The city is like something straight out of a fairy-tale, with winding cobbled streets, imposing gothic churches and opulently decorated statues around every corner.

 

After the steam and the calmness of the setting have worked a different kind of magic, I leave the Lily Wellness and Spa area – also on hand here, for all your care-soothing needs, are a Roman bath with hot tub, beauty salon, and treatments spa offering body wraps, peels and massages. I float back to my bedroom, along the winding maze of lifts and corridors. The hotel, because it has been built into the hillside, is based over four staggered storeys, which, although confusing at first, adds to the boutique style and individual nature of the place.

 

Of the 43 room and suites on offer, encompassing a wide range of styles and sumptuousness, 11 are Junior Suites and three are Honeymoon Suites, by name Tower, Jing & Jang and Polak, measuring up to 75 m2in size. Even some of the standard rooms have kitchenettes and / or direct access, and all rooms come with flat-screen TV, Wi-Fi and access to underground parking as standard.

 

 My bedroom, up on the third floor and so also one of the furthest (horizontally) from reception, was large and well-appointed. All the fittings expected from a five star were included, including fully-stocked mini bar, air conditioning and huge king bed, but possibly the best feature was the bathroom.

 

A generous shower cubicle, plus double sinks with toiletries aplenty, would have been adequate, but the bath tub – complete with bubble jets to make your very own private hot tub, was the showpiece. After a soothing massage bath, plus all that walking through the city’s enchanting maze of palaces and castles and an optional steam ‘ceremony’, a good night’s sleep is practically a hotel guarantee.

 

Upon waking, breakfast, which is free to all patrons, is served in the Ada restaurant and is a thorough if non- virtuoso affair. All the English requisites are present, including sausage, egg and beans, but Czech favourites like pickled herring are also available and are definitely worth a try if fish doesn’t seem too rich for a morning meal. After choosing your food from the buffet, take a seat in the conservatory which looks out over a beautifully kept patio and garden area, great for sunlounging in summer.

 

Breakfast can be enjoyed in the ADA restaurant

 

Moving on from breakfast, those in town on business will be able to make use of four conference halls. With capacities ranging from 10 people to 50 people, the facilities offer varying facilities including private entry points, smoking areas and sound insulation. A special customisable catering menu is also available for the corporate clientele, including coffee breaks and lunch or dinner.

 

Talking of dinner, the Hoffmeister lays upon your table tradition Czech cuisine like schnitzel and perch as well as international specialities, including octopus in a Peruvian style. These are served in both of the hotel’s restaurants, Ada and Ria. However, those wanting a slightly more interactive way of dining should visit the Chef Parade cooking school, in the up-and-coming Žižkov district, for great afternoon out and for the chance to justify, to yourself at least, that you have earned the right to gorge on delicious schnitzel.

 

The necessary double ‘battering’ – both in the physical ‘with a hammer’ sense as well as the ‘deep fried with flour and egg’ implication – is something that doesn’t feature often enough in English food. Our group also baked gingerbread, proving that cutting stars out of pastry is just as fun at 40 as it is at four. Customers can take home their self-crafted goodies, choosing to ice them with white chocolate for an extra hit of decadence, provided they have enough energy to carry anything else – it’s enough of a challenge just to lug around that belly full of irresistible schnitzel, especially if you’ve already had a Steam Ceremony…

 

Simon’s trip was organised by Wizz Air and Czech Tourism. More information at www.wizzair.com and www.czechtourism.com

 

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hoffmeister exterior Hotel Hoffmeister, Prague 9275 Hoffmeister's steam cave ADA restaurant Breakfast can be enjoyed in the ADA restaurant