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Western Australia’s Coral Coast Is the Road Trip Destination of Your Dreams

For the American traveler, Western Australia might seem a bit far out. Getting to Perth from New York requires at least a 24-hour, two-stop journey. It’s a long haul even for east coast Australians, who might prefer to spend the flight time jetting off to Bali. Once you’ve touched down in Australia’s largest state (more than three times the size of Texas), getting to know it will require driving for days on end—and, in some cases, calling in the help of a charter plane. The air begs for water and it’s so sparsely populated that your next town center is often few and far between. Some pretty gnarly creatures swarm these unforgiving environments, from reptiles with names like “Thorny Devil” and jellyfish the size of a penny, capable of doing serious damage. But it’s all part of the allure. As some poet once said, the more difficult the journey, the sweeter the reward. In Western Australia’s case, it comes in the form of shockingly unspoilt, uncrowded pockets of natural splendor. And the best way to experience it is a road trip along the westernmost coastline, which runs from Perth all the way up to the seaside town of Exmouth. The Coral Coast, as it’s called, is named in honor of Ningaloo Reef, the world’s largest fringing reef and World Heritage Site that graces the floors of the Indian Ocean. The 800-mile drive along the Coral Coast Highway is a veritable feast for the eyes, brimming with ancient landscapes, otherworldly marine life, and rich, Aboriginal cultural heritage. This road trip of WA’s greatest hits starts with the seaside town of Geraldton, to the west of which lies the Abrolhos Islands, an archipelago boasting biodiversity comparable to that of Galápagos. On your way to Kalbarri, where massive, red cliffs overlook the Murchison River, you’ll pass by the natural oddity that is the bubblegum-pink Hutt Lagoon. At Francois Peron National Park, the orange of the desert meets the blue of the ocean, a contrast so striking it can only be described as sublime. It all culminates on the Northwest Cape with a whale shark swim, an adrenaline-pumping experience that’ll have you questioning why you ever became preoccupied with the minutiae of life on land. What to know before hitting the road- The best time to hit the Coral Coast is between the months of March to October, which generally bring milder weather, ranging from about 50 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Autumn in Western Australia (March to May) welcomes the start of whale shark season, while late winter to early spring (roughly the months of July to October) brings an abundance of wildflowers; we’re talking more than 12,000 species, half of which cannot be found anywhere else in the world. It’s best to avoid the summer months of December, January, and February, as the weather will simply be too hot and dry to endure, averaging a high of 86 degrees Fahrenheit. How to navigate the Coral Coast- To do the Coral Coast one way, you should allot yourself 10-14 days, depending on the kind of excursions you choose to take. From the U.S., you’ll fly into Perth Airport, then rent a car with a company like Avis, which offers one-way car hire between Perth and Exmouth. You’ll need to present your driver’s license (which you must have held for at least 1 year) along with an International Driver’s Permit. Once in Exmouth, catch a flight home via Learmonth Airport. Once you’ve sorted out the logistics, it’s time to map out the very best stops along the Coral Coast: 1. Get to know Western Australia’s City of Light 2. Make your way to Geraldton for an island adventure 3. Head to Kalbarri by way of a pink lake 4. See how orange sands meet blue waters in Shark Bay 5. Swim with the biggest fish in the sea at Exmouth

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Moldova is surging the travel Industry with new visa-free entry policy for 63 countries

Entering Moldova is significantly easier for nationals from 63 countries, as they can do so without the need for a visa, making it an attractive destination for holidaymakers, leisure travelers, business travelers, and those on corporate travel. Moldova is surging the travel Industry with new visa-free entry policy for 63 countries, including Ukraine, US, Romania and Schengen Nations. The visa-free policy allows visitors to effortlessly plan their trips and explore Moldova’s rich cultural heritage, picturesque landscapes, and vibrant cities. Holidaymakers and leisure travelers can enjoy the country’s beautiful wine regions, historic monasteries, and the scenic Dniester River. Popular attractions include the Orheiul Vechi archaeological complex, the charming old town of Chișinău, and the Milestii Mici wine cellars, which hold the Guinness World Record for the largest wine collection. For business and corporate travelers, Moldova offers a growing infrastructure with modern amenities, conference facilities, and opportunities for investment and networking. The capital city, Chișinău, serves as a hub for business activities, with numerous hotels and venues equipped to host international events and meetings. The availability of flights from airlines like Wizz Air, Air Moldova, and Fly One ensures convenient access for international visitors, enhancing Moldova’s appeal as a prime travel destination and ensuring a memorable and hassle-free experience for visitors from around the world. TTW Editor in Chief Mr. Anup Kumar Keshan said: “The implementation of Moldova visa-free policy for 63 countries, including Schengen nations, has been a transformative force for the tourism sector. This strategic move has not only simplified the entry process for millions but has also broadened our appeal across diverse travel sectors. Additionally, this policy has invigorated niche travel markets, such as culinary tourism, adventure travel, and wellness retreats, enriching the travel experience and fostering significant economic growth and cultural exchange.” Of the 195,500 foreign tourists who visited Moldova last year, 19% were from Ukraine, 10% from Romania, 3.4% from the United States, and 1.5% from Russia. EU Member States The citizens of the following EU member states do not need visas for entry into the Republic of Moldova for a period of up to 90 days within six months from the first entry: Austria Belgium Bulgaria Czechia Cyprus Denmark Estonia Finland France Germany EU Member States The citizens of the following EU member states do not need visas for entry into the Republic of Moldova for a period of up to 90 days within six months from the first entry: Austria Belgium Bulgaria Czechia Cyprus Denmark Estonia Finland France Germany Greece Ireland Italy Latvia Lithuania Luxembourg Malta Netherlands (Holland) Hungary Poland Portugal Romania Slovenia Slovakia Spain Sweden United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland Non-EU Member States Citizens of the following non-EU countries do not need visas for entry into the Republic of Moldova for a period of up to 90 days within six months from the first entry: Andorra Canada Georgia Holy See (Vatican) Iceland Israel Japan Liechtenstein Monaco Norway San Marino Switzerland United States of America (USA) Top Touristy Places in Moldova Orheiul Vechi- An ancient archaeological complex situated in a picturesque valley of the Raut River. Known for its rich history dating back to the Dacian period, it includes a monastery carved into a limestone cliff. Highlights: Historical ruins, cave monasteries, stunning landscapes, and cultural heritage. Chișinău- The capital city of Moldova, known for its Soviet-era architecture, green parks, and vibrant cultural scene. Highlights: Stefan cel Mare Central Park, the National Museum of History, and the Triumphal Arch. Cricova Winery- One of the largest underground wine cellars in the world, famous for its extensive collection of wines and unique storage methods in limestone tunnels. Highlights: Wine tours, tastings, and an impressive wine collection. Airlines and Airports in Moldova Major Airlines: Air Moldova Description: The national airline offering flights to various destinations across Europe and beyond. Wizz Air Description: A low-cost airline providing budget-friendly flights to and from Moldova. Fly One Description: A Moldovan airline offering a range of international flights. Benefits for Visa-Exempt Travelers Easier Access for Holidaymakers and Leisure Travel- Travelers from countries that do not require a visa to enter Moldova benefit from seamless travel planning. They can easily book flights with major airlines like Air Moldova, Wizz Air, and Fly One, ensuring convenient access to Moldova’s top tourist destinations such as Orheiul Vechi, Cricova Winery, and Chișinău. Convenient Business and Corporate Travel- For business and corporate travelers, the visa-free policy simplifies travel arrangements, making it easier to attend meetings, conferences, and corporate events. The efficient airline connectivity provided by Chișinău International Airport ensures that professionals can travel seamlessly between Moldova and major international business hubs. The railway network also supports regional travel, enhancing connectivity within Moldova and to neighboring countries. Natural Attractions Breathtaking Landscapes- Moldova’s diverse landscapes include rolling hills, vast forests, and scenic rivers. The Codru Forest, one of the oldest and most picturesque forests in Moldova, is a biodiversity hotspot and a favorite destination for nature lovers . Dniester River- The Dniester River is one of the major rivers in Eastern Europe, flowing through Moldova and providing opportunities for boating, fishing, and scenic river cruises. Its banks are dotted with historical sites and charming villages. Protected Natural Reserves- Moldova boasts several protected natural reserves, such as the Lower Dniester National Park and the Prutul de Jos Nature Reserve, which offer unique opportunities for ecotourism and wildlife observation

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Sabre Corporation and Etihad Airways Enhance Travel Efficiency .

Sabre Corporation, a prominent provider of software and technology solutions for the global travel industry, has announced the integration of Etihad Airways’ New Distribution Capability (NDC) content into its global travel marketplace. This strategic move aims to enhance accessibility and efficiency for travel agencies and corporate buyers across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) Initially launching in Oman and Bahrain, this integration allows agencies to seamlessly access, book, and manage Etihad Airways’ NDC offers. The broader rollout across the EMEA region will follow suit, empowering more agencies to leverage real-time content and customized travel solutions. Sabre’s integration of NDC content enables travel agencies to efficiently compare and book Etihad’s NDC offers alongside traditional options. This capability is facilitated through Sabre’s robust suite of tools, including APIs, the Sabre Red 360 booking application, and the GetThere online booking tool. These platforms ensure that agencies can offer travelers a wider range of personalized travel options, enriched content, dynamic pricing, and tailored solutions to meet the growing demand for unique travel experiences. “We are excited about the addition of Etihad Airways’ NDC content to our travel marketplace, which demonstrates our ongoing commitment to providing the content our customers want and the scalable capabilities they need,” said Jean-Vincent Teuler, Vice President, Airline Sales for EMEA region at Sabre. “This initiative highlights our dedication to innovation and to operating a compelling travel marketplace that provides efficient access to multiple sources of content, including NDC.” Sabre stands out among its peers by offering comprehensive NDC capabilities that cater to both distribution and airline IT requirements. Recently unveiled, SabreMosaic™ represents a cutting-edge, passenger service system (PSS)-agnostic platform designed specifically for airline retailing. This innovative tool empowers carriers to swiftly generate and market dynamic, personalized content in real-time. It facilitates seamless distribution through direct channels and third-party sellers, thereby enhancing airlines’ agility in meeting evolving passenger demands.

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Thai Travellers Will Now Be Able To Visit India Visa-Free From July 1st

Just like Thailand is India’s first pick for an international vacation destination, India ranks high on Thai travellers’ bucket list for a tropical getaway. And now, close at the heels of Thailand’s temporary visa exemption for Indian nationals from May 2024 to November 2024, India has announced a similar move for Thai travellers. And there couldn’t be a better time to visit India, since the monsoon is knocking on our doorsteps. This move signifies a positive step towards increased tourism and cultural exchange between the two countries. The visa exemption is likely to lead to a surge in Thai visitors to India, benefitting the tourism industry of both countries. This can lead to a wider range of travel options and potentially lower travel costs due to increased competition among airlines and travel agencies. What Thai Travellers Can See In India: Thailand's visa-free access to India opens a plethora of experiences! You can immerse yourself in the majestic Taj Mahal, a monument to love. Explore the bustling bazaars of Delhi, or unwind on the serene beaches of Goa. History buffs can also explore ancient forts like Mehrangarh or the timeless ruins of Hampi. Nature lovers will find paradise in Kerala's backwaters or the majestic Himalayas. And if you’re travelling to India in the second half of the year, don't miss the vibrant festivals like Holi, Diwali, or Durga Puja, where India's rich culture comes alive in myriad colours. From spiritual journeys to culinary adventures, India offers something for every Thai traveller.

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Noida International Airport likely to start commercial operations by April 2025

The construction and development of the highly anticipated Noida International Airport (NIA) in Uttar Pradesh, India is progressing steadily, though the planned operational launch has been pushed back from the original timeline. The greenfield airport, which was slated to begin commercial operations by the end of this year, is now expected to commence service by the end of April 2025. In a recent statement, NIA representatives acknowledged that this is a large and complex infrastructure project, and the next critical weeks of construction activities will be crucial in determining the final timeline. While the airport authority did not specify the exact reasons for the delay, sources familiar with the project suggest that challenges in procuring certain raw materials amid global supply chain disruptions may be a contributing factor. Despite the setback, the NIA project is making significant strides towards operational readiness. Work on the runway, passenger terminal, and air traffic control tower is going great, showcasing the ongoing progress. Furthermore, the airport was recently awarded key concessions for ground handling, commercial area operations, and essential maintenance contracts - important milestones that bring the facility closer to its launch. The Noida International Airport is being developed by Yamuna International Airport Pvt Ltd (YIAPL), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Zurich Airport International AG. In the first phase, the airport will be able to handle 12 million passengers annually, and serve as the second airport in the Delhi National Capital Region. By the completion of the fourth phase, the airport's annual capacity is expected to reach an impressive 70 million passengers, with two passenger terminals and two runways. Beyond the impressive scale of the project, the NIA is also aiming to set new benchmarks in sustainable airport operations. The airport has committed to achieving net-zero emissions, making it the first of its kind in India to adopt such an ambitious environmental goal. As the project continues to progress, NIA is poised to become a critical transportation and economic hub for the region. The airport will bolster connectivity, supporting the growth and development of Uttar Pradesh and the greater Delhi area. Agreements have already been signed with several airlines to establish flight connections from the Noida International Airport, further enhancing its operational prospects. Despite the temporary delay, the NIA project team remains committed to delivering a world-class, sustainable airport that will serve the needs of the region. "We are committed to achieving our goal and ensuring that all necessary elements are in place for a successful launch," stated a spokesperson for Noida International Airport.

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Why Germany remains the best option for a multiple-entry Schengen Visa in 2024?

For travellers seeking a short-term visa that allows them to enter the Schengen Area countries more than once, if reports are to go by, Germany presents the best opportunity. Despite being the second most popular Schengen destination, Germany's issuance rates for multiple-entry visas have remained remarkably high. According to the latest Schengen Visa Statistics, in 2023, 90.4% of the visas issued by German consulates were for multiple entries, a mere 0.2 percentage point decrease from the previous year's rate of 90.6%. This means that out of the 1,459,560 visa applications received by Germany in 2023, a remarkable number of 1,115,424 applicants were granted multiple-entry visas. Germany's high rate of multiple-entry visa issuance stands out, especially when compared to the overall Schengen Area average. Well, reports also suggest that while Germany leads the way, there are several other Schengen countries that have also maintained relatively high shares of multiple-entry visas granted. Austria, for instance, is listed as the second-highest issuer, with 75.7% of its visas in 2023 being for multiple entries. Out of the 194,273 visas approved by Austria, 147,021 were multiple-entry. Italy, the third-highest, granted multiple-entry visas to 70.2% of its visa beneficiaries in 2023, equating to 680,794 out of 970,073 total visas issued. Beyond the high issuance rates, Germany also stands out for its relatively low visa rejection rate. Reportedly, in 2023, only 14.3% of visa applications received by Germany were rejected, which is lower than the overall Schengen average of 16%. This rate was even lower than Germany's own 2022 rejection rate of 16.2%, while the Schengen-wide rejection rate in 2022 was 17.9%. These statistics highlight the advantages that travellers may experience when applying for a Schengen visa through Germany. With its consistently high rates of multiple-entry visa issuance and a relatively low rejection rate, Germany presents the best chance for obtaining a short-term visa that allows for multiple entries into the Schengen Area. For individuals seeking the flexibility and convenience of a multiple-entry Schengen visa, applying through the German consular authorities appears to be the most promising option, given the country's impressive track record in this regard.

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