NEWCASTLE LISTED AS HIDDEN GEM

Newcastle has just been listed among the top 10 most underrated travel destinations in the world by the international travel team at Time Out magazine. 

NSW's second-largest city came in at number nine for its award-winning beaches, world-famous landmarks and unique landscape, which the Time Out editors said set Newcastle apart from other destinations.

The former mining town two hours' north of Sydney has experienced something of a gradual glow-up over the past few decades – with hatted restaurants and globally-renowned hotels joining its low-key landscape of well-executed local diners and boutique boltholes. The low-rise coastal city (the second-largest in the state, after Sydney) is home to six main beaches, which each offer slightly different experiences. Set up on the sand at the adorably-named Nobby’s Beach, or revel in the Art Deco splendour of the Merewether Ocean Baths – the largest ocean baths in the Southern Hemisphere. Newcastle's food scene is dynamic and delightfully unrestrained – with the surf town community informing an unpretentious approach that prioritises good, locally-sourced produce and soulful experiences. And the beauty is, it’s all within walking distance – with the CBD mere minutes from the sand.

 
LEARN MORE

VIVID SYDNEY ARTWORK RECEIVES PERMANENT HOME

The Australian National Maritime Museum has announced that Vivid Sydney 2024 artwork Barani will become a permanent part of its First Nations programming.

Barani was projected onto the museum’s rooftop as part of the Southern Hemisphere’s largest multi-artform festival.

Vivid Sydney Curator Gill Minervini said: “The theme of the 2024 festival was Humanity. It aimed to foster connections, spark imagination and showcase the multitude of ways creativity enriches our lives. Barani uses First Nations wisdom to connect people more deeply with the world around us.”

Barani runs continuously in the Bamal Yarning Space daily.

Galapagos Shark Diving Expands Conservation Efforts with New Partnership

Galapagos Shark Diving is excited to announce its new partnership with the Galaxy Diver II, the newest luxury dive liveaboard vessel in the Galapagos fleet, marking a major step forward in its mission to combine world-class diving with hands-on marine conservation. This collaboration offers divers the unique opportunity to join Shark Conservation Expeditions led by shark researchers aboard the Galaxy Diver II, offering greater comfort and luxury while continuing the vital work of protecting the fragile ecosystems of the Galapagos Islands.

Beginning in August 2025, divers will be able to take part in Citizen Science Expeditions aboard the Galaxy Diver II, engaging directly in conservation efforts by gathering valuable data on species like whale sharks and hammerheads. These expeditions offer a rare chance to actively assist researchers in real-time shark conservation, one of the few opportunities of its kind in the world. Led by scientists from the Galapagos Whale Shark Project and other shark experts, these expeditions not only provide an unparalleled diving experience but also contribute directly to ongoing research and preservation efforts. All profits from the expeditions go toward supporting this essential work.

"This partnership allows us to offer a more luxurious, comfortable experience while staying true to our core mission of shark conservation and marine research," said Jenny Waack, founder of Galapagos Shark Diving. "With Galaxy Diver II, we can reach more divers who want to contribute to conservation while enjoying the comfort of a state-of-the-art vessel."

The Galaxy Diver II, launched this year, is the most advanced liveaboard in the fleet, combining luxury and adventure. With spacious cabins, gourmet dining, a sun deck featuring a jacuzzi, and a dedicated crew providing personalized service, the vessel offers divers a relaxing and enjoyable experience while participating in conservation. This new option complements the other vessels used by Galapagos Shark Diving, giving guests the flexibility to choose a more adventurous or comfortable approach to their conservation work.

Unique Diving Experience

These expeditions offer an extraordinary opportunity to dive alongside shark researchers in some of the most shark-rich waters on the planet. Few divers will ever have the chance to contribute directly to live research in such an environment. Guests actively engage in ongoing shark conservation efforts while exploring iconic dive sites such as Darwin and Wolf Islands, known for their unparalleled marine life. Working closely with scientists studying whale sharks, hammerheads, and other species, participants gather valuable data during their dives. Every dive is not only an exploration of the rich marine environments of the Galapagos but also a direct contribution to critical research efforts.

The Galapagos Islands have long been recognized as a breeding and birthing ground for many shark species. Recent efforts led by the Galapagos Whale Shark Project have prompted the extension of the Galapagos Marine Reserve, but there is more work to be done. One of the key focuses of the research team is determining whether the whale sharks sighted in these waters are pregnant and may use the Galapagos as a birthing ground. By participating in these expeditions, divers are directly supporting research that could provide the scientific backing needed to further expand marine protection areas.

"We lose millions of sharks every year to human activity," said Jenny Waack. "The time to act is now. The Galapagos is one of the last safe havens for sharks, but more protection is needed. By supporting research now, we can accelerate efforts to safeguard these waters and extend marine protection for future generations."

Why Now?

The Galapagos Marine Reserve is one of the last places on Earth where shark populations still thrive, but they remain under constant threat. With millions of sharks killed each year due to human activity, the time to act is now. These expeditions are critical to helping researchers collect data on shark behavior, migration, and breeding patterns. By supporting this research, divers help accelerate efforts to safeguard these waters and extend marine protection for future generations. Every dive supports conservation efforts in one of the most biologically significant marine ecosystems in the world.

Post-Expedition Impact

Beyond the life-changing experience of diving in the Galapagos, participants will continue to have a meaningful impact after the trip. Galapagos Shark Diving ensures that all divers are kept informed about the research they supported. Through exclusive updates, virtual webinars, and follow-up opportunities to engage with the Galapagos Whale Shark Project, divers will stay connected to the cause long after they return home.

"This isn't just a diving trip; it's the start of a long-term commitment to ocean conservation," Jenny noted. "Our divers are given the tools to continue supporting research and marine protection from wherever they are in the world."

About the Galaxy Diver II

The Galaxy Diver II is the newest and most luxurious liveaboard vessel in the Galapagos. Featuring spacious, elegantly designed cabins, gourmet meals, and a jacuzzi on the sun deck, it offers the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure. With the latest diving and safety equipment, this vessel ensures that divers have a safe, enjoyable, and comfortable journey while participating in cutting-edge marine conservation work.

Available Dates:
20 - 27 August 2025
19 - 26 August 2026
26 August - 02 September 2026

These expeditions are limited to 14 passengers, providing an intimate and personalized experience, with expert-led dives and daily presentations that deepen participants' understanding of marine life and conservation.

AUSTRALIA'S NUMBER ONE VISITOR EXPERIENCE

The tour includes guided admission to Scenic World’s attractions, lunch at a Blue Mountains restaurant, a visit to Featherdale Wildlife Park or Sydney Zoo and a river cruise down the Parramatta River, passing under the Sydney Harbour Bridge into Sydney Harbour.

Anderson’s Tours has been rated the #1 Experience in Australia. Family Owned & operated we specialise in all-inclusive small group tours to the Blue Mountains and Sydney City & Bondi Beach Tours.

We want to express our heartfelt gratitude to our exceptional team of guides, the driving force behind our success and to thank all our valued guests that have placed their trust in Anderson’s Tours to explore the breathtaking Blue Mountains.

The Travellers’ Choice Awards Best of the Best title celebrates the highest level of excellence in travel. It’s awarded to those who receive a high volume of above-and-beyond reviews and opinions from the Tripadvisor community over a 12-month period. Out of our 8 million listings, fewer than 1% achieve this milestone.

INDUSTRY WELCOMES DIGITAL INCOMING PASSENGER CARD PILOT

A pilot program has been announced for an Australia Travel Declaration – a digital alternative to the paper incoming passenger card (IPC) for travellers into the country.

The Trans-Tasman Seamless Travel Group was established last year to deliver on the Australian and New Zealand's Prime Ministers' commitment to explore ways to move closer to seamless travel between the two countries.

Chaired by Australian Border Force (ABF) Commissioner Michael Outram and New Zealand Customs Service Chief Executive and Comptroller Christine Stevenson, the group brings together senior leaders from border agencies and industry – including major airlines, international airports, and tourism representatives.

Following broad consultation across the aviation and tourism sector, the group recently reported back to both Prime Ministers setting out a vision to work towards 'contactless travel' whereby passengers will be able to rely on digital credentials and facial recognition for quicker and easier progression through key steps at airports.

The group recommended development of a digital alternative to the paper incoming passenger card as an early priority.

The ABF and Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) have been working closely with Qantas to pilot the Australia Travel Declaration for immigration, customs and biosecurity status on entry to Australia.

Later this year, eligible adult passengers on select Qantas flights from New Zealand will be invited to complete the declarations through the Qantas app, up to 72 hours prior to arrival.

This will expand to other airlines as the program progresses beyond the pilot stage.

Engaging passengers before they travel will provide them with the opportunity to leave goods that are a risk offshore, potentially improving their experience on arrival.

Once completed, passengers will receive a digital pass through the app and to their nominated email, which will include a QR code that can be shown to ABF officers on arrival.

Digitising the Incoming Passenger Card presents opportunities to streamline processes, improve data quality, and offer a seamless experience for users.

Australian Border Force said piloting the Australia Travel Declaration would allow it to gain valuable feedback from passengers that will help refine the product and inform future expansion.

The Trans-Tasman Seamless Travel Group is continuing to meet to discuss further short and long-term initiatives to enhance the passenger experience for trans-Tasman travellers.

A successful Australia Travel Declaration will be a key foundation for the future of streamlined and contactless travel.

ABF Commissioner Michael Outram said the Trans-Tasman Seamless Travel Group had brought together leaders and experts from across government and industry to work together to solve problems and innovate.

“The Australia Travel Declaration is the first initiative from the group and shows the power of a joint approach and leveraging expertise to modernise and improve the experience for travellers," Commissioner Outram said.

“We are excited by the possibilities this pilot program can open up for the future traveller experience – both in and out of Australia – and as we prepare to welcome the world when Brisbane hosts the Olympics in 2032.

“With this in our sights, we are continuing to collaborate with our agency partners and industry to set the global standard for traveller experience."

Qantas Group Chief Customer and Digital Officer Catriona Larritt, said: “We're proud to partner with the Australian Government and industry to be the first airline to facilitate a pilot of the digital Australia Travel Declaration.

“As a member of the Trans-Tasman Seamless Travel Group, we're always looking at ways to innovate and create a more efficient travel experience for our customers."

WINE STARS, ROCK STARS AND MICHELIN STARS SET TO COME TOGETHER AT PAIR’D MARGARET RIVER REGION, WITH NEW EVENT DETAILS RELEASED

Ben Sbewry

Guests can expect the unexpected this November (14-17) with Western Australia’s new ‘wine and food’ festival Pair’d Margaret River Region releasing new and expanded program details. 

From acclaimed Attica chef Ben Shewry DJ’ing amongst the vines at the New Wave Gathering, to The Grand Tasting at Howard Park which will bring together 16 of the region’s iconic wine brands for the first time in history; from a Wine-Lovers Quiz Night at Australia’s Best Wine Shop, to Crayfish rolls paired with Chardonnay and a sunset soundtrack from Alex James (Blur) - nothing about this event is ordinary.

 

Since he was last in the region, Alex James has added winemaking to his impressive list of accomplishments. When asked what his perfect pairing was, the Blur bassist said: “Food, music and wine is the holy trinity!

 

“There are endless ways you can pair the three and I’m always looking for new ways to do so. I think the secret ingredient is sunshine, which we’re guaranteed plenty of in the Margaret River Region.

 

“Margaret River is a gold mine of independent producers because the sunshine gives everything an incredible intensity of flavour, particularly the wine,” Mr James finished.

 

One of the very exciting elements in the program is the Grand Tasting presented by Singapore Airlines, a mini festival that will be hosted at the picturesque Howard Park Wines. 16 of the region’s most iconic wine and highest rated brands will converge in one place, offering guests a curated selection of exquisite wines from Margaret River’s most prestigious wineries including Howard Park, Deep Woods, Cullen, Xanadu, Voyager Estate, Vasse Felix, Leeuwin Estate and other award-winning vineyards. Guests can soak up the garden party atmosphere as they get the opportunity to sample rare and museum wines from each of the wineries, enjoy unlimited gourmet dishes showcasing WA produce, listen to wine talks,  live music, the Howard Park Sparking & Oyster Bar and around the barrel sessions with the winemakers themselves. Those in attendance also have the option to elevate their experience with museum wine masterclasses led by lauded wine writers Nick Ryan and Erin Larkin, as they discuss topics such as - Should we age Chardonnay?, Beyond Cabernet & Chardonnay, and Clone Wars: Chardonnay and Cabernet. 

 

“If you want undeniable evidence that this is one of the most blessed places on earth to make great wine, then here it is. This is a pretty rare gathering of so many Margaret River legends, in both bottled and human form. I haven’t been this excited about a tasting for a very long time,” Mr Ryan said.

 

Speaking on behalf of the Festival Management team, Hannah Pike added: “The inaugural program has been warmly embraced by industry, the local community and future guests to the Margaret River region, so we’re excited to release additional events and program details,” Ms Pike said.

 

“Since we launched Pair’d in July, some events have sold out, but to enable more people to enjoy the festivities we’ve added new events, new ticket types and new talent.

 

“The music program will of course feature, guitarist and wine maker, Alex James (Blur) and Cafe del Mar DJ Ken Fan at Margaret’s Beach Club, but we’ve expanded to include talent such as DJ and restaurateur, Grant Smilie, who’ll be teaming up with renowned chefs Ben Shewry (Attica) and Brian Cole (Hearth) for an unexpected twist at the New Wave Gathering, we’ll have Silvia Colloca singing at The Grand Tasting, as well as Mind Electric, the Catherine Summers Ensemble and Tim Freedman (The Whitlams) performing over the Festival weekend. 

 

“Two new Origin events have been added to the program including a wine quiz at newly crowned Gourmet Traveller Wine Bar of the Year, South West Wine Shop and a decadent dinner at Amelia Park Cellar Door and Restaurant featuring award-winning reserve and museum wines.

 

“Additional tickets have been added to Australia’s ultimate Beach Club - Margaret’s, starting from $145 per person which includes a crayfish roll, BBQ bites, a welcome drink and bar access. For those wanting to elevate their experience at the Festival, we’ve also added a limited number of VIP Packages which include premium tickets to two of the icon events, plus a meet and greet over a glass of wine with Alex James, Ms Pike finished.

 

Pair’d is proudly owned and supported by the Western Australian Government. 

 

To access all tickets and view the complete program and talent line-up, visit: www.pairdmargaretriver.com

World’s largest indoor ski resort opened in hot Shanghai

L*SNOW Indoor Skiing Theme Resort

In Shanghai, the world’s largest indoor ski resort opened its doors, amidst high temperatures outside as China recorded its warmest August in 60 years. The resort, located in Pudong, Shanghai, features a 90,000-square-meter ski area and additional facilities like shops, hotels, and a water park, which is yet to open. During the outdoor opening ceremony, temperatures had already reached 30°C by 9 a.m., creating a contrast between the sweltering heat outside and the ski resort’s alpine atmosphere inside.

This grand opening marked the end of a challenging trial period for the resort. Chinese state media reported that safety procedures were being reviewed following an incident where a skier injured their finger. The resort, named L*SNOW Indoor Skiing Theme Resort, was certified by Guinness World Records as the largest of its kind globally, surpassing another Chinese facility in Harbin.

The development of indoor ski resorts is part of China’s broader strategy to promote winter sports, fueled in part by hosting the 2022 Winter Olympics and catering to the recreational desires of its growing middle class. The resort aims to address shrinking and unreliable snow slopes in traditional ski areas in northern China, a trend exacerbated by climate change.

To mitigate its environmental footprint, the facility relies on 72 cooling machines to maintain appropriate indoor temperatures and 33 snow-making machines. Moreover, three-quarters of the roof is covered with solar panels to help power the energy-intensive operations of the resort. Shanghai government reports acknowledged the high energy consumption but highlighted efforts to maximize energy reuse through ice storage systems and heat recovery.
* TravelDailyNews

CHINATOWN GATES TO BE RESTORED

The Chinatown Ceremonial Gates.
Image: Katherine Griffiths/City of Sydney

The Chinatown Ceremonial Gates are located on Dixon Street in Haymarket. They act as ceremonial archways to Chinatown.

Dixon Street is at the heart of Chinatown and is highly valued locally, especially for multiple generations of Chinese communities who have many memories of the area.

Completed in 1980, the gates were an initiative of the Dixon Street Chinese Committee established in 1971. Designed by architect Henry Tsang, also an original member of the committee, the gates incorporate traditional Chinese design and ornamentation.

Both gates are symmetrical and largely identical besides unique individual decorative panels and are each accompanied by a pair of lion sculptures on plinths, intended to guard the entry.

In 2022 we worked with the local community to develop a vision for the future of Haymarket. We also invited feedback on our plans to improve Dixon Street.

The heritage listing and restoration of the gates is one of the projects identified as key to revitalising the area.

What is being done

The gates were heritage listed in April 2024.

Restoration of the gates is guided by a heritage study from GML Heritage Architects in consultation with Henry Tsang.

Works include:

• replacing the existing deteriorated concrete sculptures with granite lions in line with the original design. Northern and southern Chinese-style lions guard each gate, as Sydney is a sister city to Guangdong in southern China and the existing lion sculptures are in the northern Chinese style only.
• replacing the granite plinths.
• upgrading the timber decorative panels and amending the original design to include the phoenix (female symbol) and dragon (male symbol).
• replacing the ceramic roof tiles and restoring the 2 marble plaques on the north gate.
• installing new lighting.

Spending gap widens between younger and older Australian

Younger Australians in their mid-to-late-twenties have pulled back on spending more than any other age group, while those over 65 continue to spend above the rate of inflation, according to the latest CommBank iQ Cost of Living Insights Report.

Those aged 25-29 have reduced spending by 3.5 per cent compared to last year, the only age group to cut back on both essential and discretionary expenses. When considering inflation, their consumption has shrunk more than 7 per cent compared to May 2023. While most Australians have reallocated their budgets to cover the increased costs of essential items, like insurance, medical and supermarkets spending, consumers aged 25-29 decreased spending on both essentials (-3.1 per cent) and discretionary (-3.8 per cent) items.

“Compared to the national experience, where most people have had to increase spending on essentials, we are seeing the opposite trend amongst those in their twenties, with essential spending falling at a similar rate as discretionary,” said CommBank iQ Head of Innovation and Analytics Wade Tubman.

“These cuts include a 10 per cent drop in health insurance, a 7 per cent drop in utilities and a 4 per cent decrease in spending at the supermarket. This highlights the difficult choices people in this age bracket are making, with some having to make larger lifestyle changes like foregoing their health insurance altogether. The decrease in utilities spending could also suggest young Aussies are moving back in with parents or into shared accommodation to split costs.”

Nationally, spending increased by 2.5 per cent, with essentials increasing by 3.6 per cent. Consumers clocked up an average of $1,472 per month on essentials, led by increased spend on insurance (+8 per cent), utilities (+6 per cent), pharmacies (+6 per cent) and supermarkets (+5 per cent).

“Many Australians are having to allocate more of their wallet to essential living expenses, rather than other areas where they may prefer to direct their spending. The cost-of-living initiatives announced in the Federal Budget, for example the energy bill rebate, reflect the increased spending by Australians on essential items like energy,” Mr Tubman said.

Discretionary spending increased by just 1.4 per cent, led by continued growth in spending by those Australians over 60.

“The wide gap in spending patterns across age groups continues to persist, with Australians in the 60 and older age bracket spending above inflation, especially on activities like travel, which is up 11 per cent, general retail up 9 per cent and eating out, up 7 per cent,” Mr Tubman said.

Across the country, regional Australia continues to hold up better than metro areas with a 3 per cent annual uplift in spending, compared to 2.3 per cent. Consumers in regional areas more than doubled their discretionary spending compared to those living in metro areas (2.4 per cent versus 1 per cent).

“While spending in regional areas continues to outpace that of metro areas, this gap has narrowed when compared to previous quarters. This raises the question whether people in metro locations have downsized their wallets to adjust to higher prices, and what spending growth remains is now ‘the new normal’,” Mr Tubman said.

On a state-by-state basis, spending was most resilient in Queensland (+3.3 per cent) closely followed by the Australian Capital Territory at 3.1 per cent and South Australia at 2.9 per cent.

“In the Sunshine State, discretionary spend per capita on things like travel was higher than the nationwide average. While further south, Victorians have tended to reduce their spending more significantly than others when it came to homewares and apparel and didn’t increase spend as much on travel, leisure and eating out,” Mr Tubman said.

CommBank iQ is a joint venture between Commonwealth Bank of Australia and data science and artificial intelligence company Quantium, which uses de-identified payments data from approximately 7 million CBA customers –– to track spending trends.

Many Australian households are finding it harder to deal with current cost of living pressures. CommBank is supporting those who need our help with a range of initiatives. CommBank’s Cost of Living Support Hub provides a range of tools, tips and guidance to help our customers navigate current cost of living pressures.

Chinese visitor recovery gathers pace

China has made a notable movement in the top five countries for short-term visitor arrivals.

The three leading source countries were New Zealand (103,850 trips), China (55,670) and the United States (52,460).

ABS head of migration statistics Jenny Dobak said: "China made a notable movement in the top five countries that short-term visitors New Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) data shows short-term visitor arrivals to Australia recovered to 85 per cent of 2018-19 levels in June 2024.

There were 587,760 short-term visitor arrivals, an increase of 8.4 per cent on one year earlier.

Holidays were once again the leading reason for visiting Australia.

The three leading source countries were New Zealand (103,850 trips), China (55,670) and the United States (52,460).

ABS head of migration statistics Jenny Dobak said: "China made a notable movement in the top five countries that short-term visitors arrived from, becoming the second-most popular country for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic.

"India was the fifth most popular destination; however it was the only country in the top five to surpass its pre-COVID-19 level.” from, becoming the second-most popular country for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic.

"India was the fifth most popular destination; however it was the only country in the top five to surpass its pre-COVID-19 level.”

Juneyao Airlines has announced the launch of direct flights between Shanghai and Sydney, scheduled to operate four times per week from 17 December 2024.

Sydney will be the first city in Australia to welcome Juneyao Airlines, which is the ninth mainland China-based carrier to connect with Sydney Airport. Juneyao’s entry will raise seat capacity between mainland China and Sydney to 101 per cent of December 2019 levels.

Destination NSW worked in partnership with Sydney Airport to deliver the new service.

Khmer Tonics Spa Treatments by Blind Massage Therapist at Shinta Mani Angkor and Bensley Collection Pool Villas

Mr Loy Luoy

Shinta Mani Angkor and Bensley Collection Pool Villas in Siem Reap, Cambodia is known for their philanthropy through their Shinta Mani Foundation and its many activities to help the less fortunate, under the three pillars of education, healthcare and direct assistance.

The hotel's Khmer Tonics Spa Manager, Ms Sam Somelena created a training programme for Mr Loy Luoy, a local blind massage therapist, enabling him to upgrade his skills and increase the types of spa treatments he can do, thus increasing his earning potential to support himself and his family. Loy is trained to do the Shinta Mani Signature Oil Massage, a traditional Khmer Massage and a relaxing Foot Massage. There is a 24-hour advance notice period to book him.

“As part of our CSR program and ongoing commitment to support our local community, we are proud to help Loy increase his income by being able to offer an increased range of treatments for our guests and local spa clients”, said Benjamin Lehmann, General Manager.

The programme has been well received and is proving popular with guests and clients who are happy to support this wonderful initiative. Prices for the treatments by Loy are USD 45 for a 60-minute treatment and USD 65 for 90 minutes, plus applicable government tax and service charge.

For more information and reservations, please contact the Khmer Tonics Spa at Shinta Mani Angkor and Bensley Collection Pool Villas on:

Tel: +855 63 968 591
Email: spa.sr@shintamani.com
Website: https://shintamani.com/angkor/

CARNIVAL SUNSETS P&O CRUISES AUSTRALIA

Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE/LSE: CCL; NYSE: CUK), the world's largest cruise company, today announced that in March 2025, the company will sunset the P&O Cruises Australia brand and fold the Australia operations into Carnival Cruise Line, the most popular cruise line in the world.

This change is the latest in a series of strategic moves designed to increase guest capacity for Carnival Cruise Line, the company's flagship brand and the highest-returning brand in Carnival Corporation's global portfolio. This will result in the addition of eight new ships to Carnival Cruise Line's fleet since 2021, including the successful shift of three vessels from sister brand Costa Cruises. In addition, the company recently placed its first new ship order in half a decade for two new Excel-class cruise ships to join Carnival Cruise Line in 2027 and 2028.

"Despite increasing Carnival Cruise Line's capacity by almost 25% since 2019 including transferring three ships from Costa Cruises, guest demand remains incredibly strong so we're leveraging our scale in an even more meaningful way by absorbing an entire brand into the world's most popular cruise line," said Josh Weinstein, chief executive officer of Carnival Corporation & plc. "In 2019, Carnival Cruise Line was 29% of our total capacity, and when we complete this move early next year, Carnival Cruise Line – our highest-returning brand – will make up approximately 35% of our total global capacity. While our company's overall growth between 2019 – 2028 is projected to be less than 2% (CAGR), the majority will be for Carnival Cruise Line, which will grow by approximately 50% over that time period."

In addition to further optimizing the composition of Carnival Corporation's global brand portfolio, the realignment will strengthen the company's performance in the South Pacific through numerous operational efficiencies.

"P&O Cruises Australia is a storied brand with an amazing team, and we are extremely proud of everything we have accomplished together in Australia and the broader region," said Weinstein. "However, given the strategic reality of the South Pacific's small population and significantly higher operating and regulatory costs, we're adjusting our approach to give us the efficiencies we need to continue delivering an incredible cruise experience year-round to our guests in the region. Carnival Corporation & plc remains committed to Australia and we will continue to be the largest cruise operator in the region with 19 ships calling on 78 destinations and representing almost 60% of the market."

Building on Shared Legacy in the Region
As the P&O Cruises Australia brand retires early next year, the Pacific Encounter and Pacific Adventure ships will be rebranded and operated by Carnival Cruise Line brand. Pacific Explorer will exit the fleet in February of 2025. Current itineraries will operate business as usual, and guests will be notified in the coming days of any changes to future bookings as a result of this announcement.

When the transition is complete next year, Carnival Cruise Line – which has served the South Pacific since 2013 – will have four ships in the market, including Sydney-based Carnival Splendor and Carnival Luminosa sailing seasonally from Brisbane, in addition to their new sister ships Encounter and Adventure.

"We look forward to building on the history and heritage of P&O Cruises Australia by bringing some of our innovations to more cruise guests in the region," said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. "While we plan to make some technology upgrades and other small changes to the two P&O Cruises Australia ships, they will continue to be geared to the unique Australian market with a familiar feel and much of the same experiences for P&O Cruises Australia guests. The most notable change will be the availability of our popular HubApp, enabling guests to make online dining and excursion reservations, request food and beverage delivery, and chat with other guests, among other features. P&O Cruises Australia guests will also be invited to participate in Carnival's loyalty program and promotional offerings specific to Carnival ships sailing in the region."

"Over the coming months, we will find ways to celebrate and honor P&O Cruises Australia – a valued part of our legacy and an important contributor to the tourism industry in the South Pacific," said Weinstein. "We value the connection our P&O Cruises Australia guests, employees, travel advisor partners, public officials and destinations have with our company and are committed to building on this association moving forward as Carnival."

About Carnival Corporation & plc
Carnival Corporation & plc is the largest global cruise company, and among the largest leisure travel companies, with a portfolio of world-class cruise lines – AIDA Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Costa Cruises, Cunard, Holland America Line, P&O Cruises (Australia), P&O Cruises (UK), Princess Cruises, and Seabourn.

Additional information can be found on www.carnivalcorp.com, www.aida.de, www.carnival.com, www.costacruise.com, www.cunard.com, www.hollandamerica.com, www.pocruises.com.au, www.pocruises.com, www.princess.com, and www.seabourn.com.

CARAVAN AND CAMPING GROWTH FOR NSW

NSW was the top destination for caravan and camping visitors nationally during the year ending March 2024. 

Tourism Research Australia data shows NSW welcomed 4.8 million trips, up 1.4 per cent on the previous year. 

The total number of visitor nights was 18.5 million, up 3.5 per cent on the previous year. The largest age group among caravan and camping visitors to NSW was 35-54 years (1.70 million trips or 35.4 per cent).

LEARN MORE