Airlines Offer Thousands to Switch from Overbooked Flights

With many flights to Australia currently fully booked or even oversold, airlines have been turning to desperate measures to encourage passengers to give up their seats. AFF member albatross710 was recently booked to fly from Vancouver to Brisbane on Air Canada. At the boarding gate, airline staff were calling for 7 volunteers to give up … Continued

Canberra Airport’s Facebook Page is Refreshingly Sassy

For an airport serving a city of less than half a million, Canberra Airport punches above its weight. In my personal (and perhaps slightly biased) opinion, it’s the nicest airport in Australia with its modern, spacious facilities, excellent Qantas & Virgin lounges, and its (usually) short lines for security. The airport also boasts direct flights … Continued

Free Chairman’s Lounge for Politicians: A Conflict of Interest?

In Australia, members of parliament are eligible for complimentary membership of Qantas’ exclusive, invitation-only Chairman’s Lounge. This comes with the ultimate in perks when flying with Qantas including personalised service, free upgrades and access to dedicated VIP lounges in major Australian airports – among many other unwritten benefits. Virgin Australia also operates a special invitation-only … Continued

Berlin Airport Now Offers Timed Security Line Reservations

Long waits at airport security have been a common traveller complaint in recent months. This has been a particular problem in busy European airports where chaotic queues have stretched into the hours at times, causing many to miss their flights. If you’re flying in Business or First Class, or have elite status with a frequent … Continued

Hotels Cut Back on Housekeeping

During the pandemic, many hotels stopped offering daily housekeeping citing health and safety reasons. This was largely understandable at the time, but it now appears that many hotels have no intention of resuming this service for their guests. And no, prices haven’t come down proportionately. I’ve stayed at many hotels this year in Australia and … Continued