Money

British Airways owner slashes first-quarter loss

LONDON – British Airways parent IAG slashed net losses in the first quarter thanks to growing travel demand, the group said on Friday. Losses after tax totaled 4 million euros ($4.3 million) in the first three months of 2024, sharply down from 87 million euros a year earlier, the aviation conglomerate said in a results statement. IAG, which also owns Spanish carrier Iberia, added that sales jumped 9.2 percent to 6.4 billion euros in the...

Tighter visa rules may deter Chinese tourists, investments - PTAA

The Philippine Travel Agencies Association (PTAA) said that tighter visa rules for Chinese nationals visiting the Philippines could have a negative impact on the country's economy. "Chinese tourists are a major source of income for the Philippines, so making it harder to visit could discourage tourism and hurt businesses. They might even be the ones to give travel advisories not to go to the Philippines," said PTAA president Evangeline...

Vatican Museums staff challenge the pope with a legal bid for better terms and treatment

ROME (AP) — Forty-nine employees of the Vatican Museums have filed a class-action complaint with the Vatican administration demanding better seniority, leave and overtime benefits in an unusual, public challenge to Pope Francis’ governance. The complaint, dated April 23 and made public this weekend in Italian newspapers, also alleged that staff faced health and security risks due to cost-saving and apparent profit-generating initiatives at the...

Air Vanuatu grounding prompts fears Pacific country’s tourism will take big hit

“Everybody is complaining, it’s not good. Don’t book Air Vanuatu.” Those were the words of a taxi driver in March as he pulled away from Vanuatu’s Bauerfield international airport and headed into the heart of Port Vila, the oceanside capital of the Pacific island country. Two months later and the frequent cancellations and delays that had become synonymous with the national carrier over the past year have given way to a government announcement...

Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, Splash Mountain's replacement, will open at Disney World in June

Splash Mountain’s highly anticipated replacement is the first Disney attraction inspired by “The Princess and the Frog.”

Sunday £1 bus fares to be introduced in Lancashire

Cheaper tickets for young people are also set to be launched later this year.

Air India Express crew returns to work after mass sick leave, service to be normal by May 14

The airline union added that a glitch in the company's scheduling software mistakenly indicated that staff were on sick leave.

‘Central Luzon airports can co-exist’

MANILA, Philippines — Will the Clark International Airport manage to survive and thrive once the largest gateway in the Philippines located in nearby Bulacan is built? Its operator believes that yes, it will persist. The Luzon International Premiere Airport Development (LIPAD) Corp. stands by the viability of its airport as a gateway to the Philippines in the face of growing competition in Luzon. In particular, LIPAD president and CEO Noel...

Northern Lights sightings possible again on Sunday night for parts of the UK

Northern Lights sightings possible again on Sunday night for parts of the UK - Marco Petagna, a meteorologist at the Met Office, the lights might be visible for some areas of the country again on Sunday night

Airbnb forecasts weaker Q2 revenue despite robust demand for international travel

Airbnb ABNB.O reported a higher quarterly profit on Wednesday but forecast second-quarter revenue below Wall Street expectations, sending shares of the vacation rental company down 8% after the bell. Accommodation companies in the first quarter have seen the demand for travel in regions outside of North America boost earnings as travel accelerates in Asia-Pacific and Latin America. […]

Get ready for flights to space! $1.4bn 'plane' is about to liftoff

After more than a decade in development, 'Dream Chaser' - which can land horizontally on a runway like a traditional aircraft - has completed testing, report Colorado developer Sierra Space.

20 Visa-Free Countries Outside of Asia for Filipinos

Including countries from Africa to South America.

I was born and raised in Greece. These are the 11 best luxury resorts in the country that are actually worth the money.

As an Athens local, I've stayed at my fair share of Greek hotels. Some of the country's luxury resorts are more worth it than others though.

Central Luzon tour guides receive free insurance coverage

MANILA, Philippines — Up to 51 tour guides in Central Luzon received free insurance coverage and tour guide kits during the 51st founding anniversary of the Department of Tourism. Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco personally handed over the tokens of appreciation during a ceremony at the Clark Freeport Zone in Pampanga on Saturday. Frasco emphasized the role of tour guides as frontline ambassadors of the Philippine tourism industry. “I...

America’s Worst Time Zone

Where the clocks are off in both directions

PH showcases 'hilot' at international tourism expo

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines showcased for the first time at an international wellness tourism expo in Japan the healing art of "hilot," the traditional Filipino massage. The Philippines was among the exhibitors at the International Wellness Tourism Expo from May 8 to 10. Philippine Ambassador to Japan Mylene Garcia-Albano expressed enthusiasm about the country's debut at the expo. "It serves as an excellent avenue for us to introduce...

Turner masterpiece makes first North East visit

It is the first time the artwork has been displayed in the North East.

Europe's most underrated cities, according to travel experts

Think of European cities and a plethora of well-known destinations spring to mind. There's no shortage of places to discover the history and culture of this continent. But don't overlook its smaller, less explored cities. Many are hidden gems, far from the hectic crowds, that offer visitors a much more intimate, unspoiled experience. Condé Nast Traveller asked their seasoned contributors to put together a list of Europe's most underrated cities. Using their network of travel specialists and European-based writers, they compiled a list of places you might not have considered—or heard of at all—based on their recommendations. Curious? Click on to uncover Europe's most underrated cities.

Life abroad: These are the best countries for Americans to live in

Considering a life abroad? For many, it's never anything more than a fun idea. But according to the State Department, millions of Americans are actually doing it. And while there are many nations to consider for your new home, in this gallery you'll get a list of the 15 best countries for expats by prioritizing a range of factors including safety, friendliness, quality of life, and access to culture and outdoor activities. Ready? Click on for the best countries for expats, and also discover practical tips to make your dreams come true!

Shangri-La Mactan 'Tropical Escape' online sale 2024

STEP into a realm of tranquility and adventure with Shangri-La Mactan's "Tropical Escape to Paradise" with booking starting May 11 through its official website or the Shangri-La Circle app until May 26, 2024. For vacationers and paradise-seekers, prepare for immersion in the essence of island life while enjoying substantial savings of up to 35 percent, turning sunny dreams into delightful reality. Discover the allure of the pristine beach and...

Anti-social issues at lake 'intimidating' residents

An increase in rubbish due to high volumes of visitors has been putting local residents off the area.

20 fun classic beach cars

The enduring magic of Hong Kong

Hong Kong consistently ranks as one of the most popular destinations for Filipinos traveling abroad. Its appeal lies not just in its proximity — a mere two-hour plane ride from the Philippines — but also in its diverse array of attractions. From shopping to outdoor adventures, sampling local cuisine to vibrant nightlife and thrilling theme parks, there's something for everyone. For those exploring beyond the Philippines for the first time, Hong...

SpiceJet announces Delhi-Phuket non-stop service; stock up 2%

This new service will complement the airline's existing operations to Bangkok from Kolkata and Delhi, SpiceJet said.

Taylor Swift may attract more U.S. luxury travelers to Paris for Eras Tour than Olympics

The superstar brought her Eras Tour to Paris for a four-night stint. She may draw more Americans to France than the upcoming Olympics.

World's 50 Best Beaches 2024 List Includes 2 from the Philippines

Surprisingly, Boracay isn’t one of them.

Owner wants beach ban on dogs lifted

Dogs are banned from certain areas of beaches from 1 May until 30 September each year.

Taxpayers spend £3.5m on salaries for delayed ferry crew - despite it never carrying passengers

Despite racking up costs, endless delays, and not carrying a single passenger, taxpayers have spent a huge amount on the crew of a Scottish Ferry

Heathrow Airport accuses Government of 'curtailing UK's global connectivity'

The west London airport criticised measures such as introducing a £10 fee for some transiting passengers

Gabii sa Kabilin 2024: Must-visit cultural and heritage sites in Cebu

CEBU CITY, Philippines – The much-awaited Gabii sa Kabilin (GSK) 2024 offered participants of all ages an immersive experience of Cebu’s vibrant history, which has influenced the identity of its people over the years. This year’s event, held on Friday, May 10, celebratee the theme “Beloved Bisaya.” This theme commemorated the 350th death anniversary of Jesuit missionary Fr. Francisco Ignacio Alcina, who affectionately called the Visayans “my...

Best places to see Northern Lights in the US if you missed them

The jaw-dropping spectacle of the Northern Lights could be visible across the United States once again tonight, according to the latest predictions by the NOAA.

Third time could prove lucky for aurora viewers around the world

WASHINGTON — Anyone who missed the dazzling auroras dancing across night skies earlier this weekend will get another chance Sunday evening, as the powerful geomagnetic storm hitting the Earth is expected to intensify yet again. “Several intense Coronal Mass Ejections are still anticipated to reach the Earth’s outer atmosphere by later today,” the US National Weather Service said. Those ejections — expulsions of plasma and magnetic fields from...

New wild swimming spots given go ahead

Three Sussex beaches are among 27 sites given approval by the Environment Agency as bathing sites.

Commuter rail service in northeast Spain has been disrupted by theft of copper cables near Barcelona

BARCELONA, Spain (AP) — Commuter rail service serving Barcelona and northeastern Spain has suffered major disruption because of the theft of copper cables from a train installation, Spanish rail authorities said Sunday. Thousands of commuters were stranded at train stations in and around Barcelona after trains couldn't run on several commuter lines. The disruption to local transport came while more than 5.7 million voters were eligible to...

Astonishing spiritual sites you can visit in the US

Whether you're interested in learning more about other cultures or just want to take the time to meditate and get in touch with your spiritual side, you might want to take a trip to one of the country's many sacred sites. From beautiful temples to labyrinths to mountains inhabited by a fire goddess, this country has been home to many peoples, and many have found spiritual connection here. Take the time to walk through sparkling sands or meditate ocean-side. Just make sure to be respectful of the cultures for whom these places are holy.

Man, 79, abseils down Empire State Building

Three people from north Wales make history as the first people to abseil New York landmark.

Inside £1 billion abandoned 'paradise' built on stunning coast that was supposed to house 1million

Chinese developers had high hopes for luxurious "paradise" Forest City in Malaysia - but high debt and visa restrictions mean that its now become a "ghost city."

Countries that will pay you to move there

Moving to a new country can be an exciting experience. However, it can also be a costly and daunting process. Fortunately, some states, cities, and even entire countries pay you to move there and offer incentives to attract new residents, including financial compensation and tax breaks. Whatever the reason, these incentives can be a great opportunity for those looking to start a new chapter in their lives. If you're looking for a change of scenery, check out this gallery for countries that will pay you to move there.

Discover the hottest 15 cities for digital nomads in 2024

The digital nomad bonanza really took off on the heels of the COVID-19 pandemic, with many of the most unlikely places creating their own niche versions of remote working experiences, often dangling enticing lifestyle carrots such as tax breaks or visas to attract a steadily growing army of digital nomads to their cities. But just where are these places? In this gallery, we've curated a top 15 based on Nomad Capitalist's findings. Click on to discover them all!

Dream weaving: The art of banig making in Pilar, Camotes

CAMOTES ISLAND, Cebu — On a Saturday morning, a delegation from the Provincial Government’s flagship tourism program gathered at Pier 1 in Cebu City to depart for an island off the eastern part of mainland Cebu. At 10 a.m. the delegates of ‘Suroy Suroy Sugbo: Enchanting 1 Camotes Island’ arrived at the first stop of the two-day trip. They were greeted with the vibrant smiles and warm welcome of the residents of Pilar town on Ponson Island,...

Old World meets new in captivating Iloilo City

Melding modernity with heritage has been the goal for many cities all over the world. The challenge of fully embracing the contemporary way of life while honoring one’s past and cultural identity is no easy feat. Iloilo City has been a success story in this regard. Dubbed the “Heart of the Philippines” due to its geographical location, this Visayan capital is rich in heritage structures, gastronomical delights, and modern designs. Conducive...

A millennial couple invested in a $143,000 vacation home in Bali. It's become the crux of their early retirement strategy.

The couple wanted to invest in a tangible asset, and settled on the idea of building a villa in Bali. They hope to retire there within six years.

Gig work is the new Ellis Island for immigrants looking for work. But many drivers feel trapped in the long hours and low pay.

Business Insider spoke to a dozen recent immigrants who rely heavily on driving for Uber and Lyft to make ends meet.

Tourists 'understand importance' of new cathedral charge

All the money generated from the new fee will be spent of preserving the Grade 1-listed building.

Booking Hit by EU’s Crackdown on Powerful Tech Platforms

Booking Holdings Inc.’s travel services platform became the latest technology business to be targeted by the European Union’s crackdown on technology firms’ market power.

Emergency at major Australian airport after plane malfunction

A passenger planes landing gear has failed at Newcastle Airport, with emergency services rushing to the scene.

Japan to introduce online booking for Mount Fuji trail

An online booking system for Mount Fuji's most popular trail was announced on Monday by Japanese authorities trying to fight overtourism on the active volcano. The system will guarantee people entry through a new gate, "allowing them to plan ahead," Katsuhiro Iwama, an official from the Yamanashi regional government, told AFP. Online bookings open on May 20 for the July-September hiking season.

The midwest is the US’s surprising new outdoor hotspot

At a nondescript mall in Beavercreek, a sleepy suburb in south-west Ohio, workers are unpacking the latest camping equipment, bikes and kayaks ahead of a grand opening of Ohio’s fifth REI co-op location. Surrounded by farmland and leafy streetscapes in a region that relied on manufacturing and an air force base as its economic lifeblood for decades, Beavercreek and the wider post-industrial midwest might not quickly conjure up images of outdoor...

Eight more Chinese cities join Hong Kong solo travel scheme

HONG KONG— Eight more Chinese cities have joined a scheme allowing their residents to travel to Hong Kong on their own, rather than as part of a tour group, as part of efforts to boost Hong Kong’s economy. Hong Kong is battling to revive its economy following a national security crackdown and COVID-related controls, which led to many […]

Dual world records marked on Mount Everest

Kami Rita Sherpa scaled the world's tallest mountain for a 29th time while a Briton marked his 18th.