Great Aussie travel with an Airpass

The “Visit Australia Airpass” provides Singapore Airlines and Silkair customers travelling to Australia access to Australia’s main cities and iconic destinations across Virgin Australia’s domestic network. For more information, visit www.SingaporeAirlines.com.

 

North Korea launches tourist drive

North Korea is attempting to lure foreign tourists to the country to help celebrate a major anniversary and pledging to make “every possible sincere efforts” to show visitors a good time. Preparations are under way at the scenic Mount Kumgang to arrange transport and lodging for foreigners who have apparently shown “keen interest” in visiting the communist nuclear-armed nation. There are no official figures on how many foreign tourists visit North Korea each year, but their cash – the North charges exorbitant prices for everything from beer to accommodation – is a major boon to the moribund economy. – AFP

 

Qantas introduces new baggage rules

Qantas will introduce changes to its international checked baggage policy on May 2, moving from a weight system to a “piece and weight” system. A Non Frequent Flyer in Economy Class flying North to South is allowed two pieces up to 23 kilograms, while passengers travelling on an international flight in Economy Class to other destinations can take just one piece up to 23 kilograms. Premium Economy, Business and First Class passengers enjoy more privileges. For more information, call (02) 627 1701 or (02) 627 1704 or visit www.Qantas.com.au.

 

View from the top

Guests who claim to have no fear of heights can prove it in the Australia’s Surfers Paradise. Equipped only with a special suit and secured by carabiner climbing hooks, people can follow a guide in scaling the 77 storeys to the top of the city’s Q1 Tower, Australia’s tallest building. Once there, climbers can view the scenery of the Gold Coast from 270 metres up, the regional tourism office says. (www.SkyPoint.com.au) – DPA

 

Tourists sin in Marrakech, says minister

A Moroccan minister has caused a stir by saying that tourists visit the southern city of Marrakech “to sin”. “People from all over the world come and spend a lot of time sinning and being away from God,” Justice Minister Mustafa Ramid is quoted as saying during a visit a Koranic school in Marrakech. Marrakech, the third biggest city in Morocco, draws thousands of tourists for its Islamic heritage. Although the city is sometimes uncomfortable with the tourists, tourism is one of the country's main foreign income earners. – AFP

 

Denmark launches new fish market

Copenhagen is about to boast a new attraction. In late summer, near the Knippelsbro Bridge, a new floating fish market will be opened. Covering three floors, 10 fish merchants will be offering the catch of the day. A fish restaurant is also being planned.