Latest news with #sustainableTravel
The Guardian
16 hours ago
- Business
- The Guardian
Eurostar vows to run direct trains from UK to Germany and Switzerland
Eurostar has vowed to run direct trains from the UK to Germany and Switzerland, as it attempts to fend off potential competitors eyeing its London depot space. The cross-Channel rail operator's chief executive, Gwendoline Cazenave, said she had no doubt the direct services would run in the early 2030s despite the failure of previous ventures to connect London and Frankfurt. Eurostar said the conditions were now 'finally right' and it was ready for a 'new golden age of international sustainable travel', as it reiterated plans to buy up to 50 new trains. Total passenger numbers for Eurostar grew 5% last year, and a number of other possible players have announced plans to break into its monopoly on train services between Britain and France. However, the rail regulator, the Office of Rail and Road (ORR), has said that there is only depot space in London for one more operator – or for Eurostar to expand. The ORR has asked Eurostar and its rivals to submit plans, for a decision later this year, on how to allocate the space in the Temple Mills depot in east London. Sir Richard Branson's Virgin group has announced plans for a 12-train cross-Channel service, while a similar-sized operation could be run by a British startup, Gemini Trains, chaired by the Labour peer Lord Berkeley. The Italian state railway FS Italiane is also looking to enter the market in a joint venture with a Spanish company, Evolyn. Eurostar has insisted there is no space in the depot, particularly if its own growth plans go ahead. It has indicated it would help fund a new depot, although it has called on the UK government to develop a 'clear national strategy for supporting international rail'. It is targeting direct trains from London to Frankfurt and Geneva, taking about five hours to the German financial hub and about 20 minutes more to the Swiss city. It said that the number of flights operating on the routes showed the strong demand for travel – and many business and leisure passengers would now wish to take the train instead to travel more sustainably. The next generation of trains would also be able to handle the complexities of different systems and these longer routes. Creating the new connections will require a number of hurdles to be overcome, including establishing border controls, station infrastructure, and timetable paths, a spokesperson said. Sign up to Business Today Get set for the working day – we'll point you to all the business news and analysis you need every morning after newsletter promotion However, Cazenave told the PA news agency that she had 'no doubt' the new direct services would happen because of the 'willingness' of Eurostar, passengers and governments. The UK and Switzerland signed a memorandum of understanding last month aimed at establishing direct train services between the countries. Eurostar said its revenues grew 2% to €2bn (£1.7bn) in 2024, with passenger numbers across its services – including those within France, Belgium, the Netherlands and Germany – up to 19.5 million. It has yet to select a manufacturer for its planned €2bn train order. Eurostar, meanwhile, confirmed it will boost the frequency of its direct trains to the Netherlands after the completion of building work at the international terminus in Amsterdam in February, allowing it to board a full complement of 850 passengers. A fourth daily return service between London St Pancras and Amsterdam will run from 9 September, and a fifth one will start in mid-December.
News.com.au
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- News.com.au
Hugh Jackman-linked health retreat listed as first guests arrive
The founder of a famed eco resort, co-owned by Hollywood actor Hugh Jackman, has listed his newest venture for sale before the first guests even arrive. Three years in the making, EcoView Retreat was developed over a 28.06ha rainforest parcel next to Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat in Tallebudgera Valley. Sydney-based entrepreneur Tony de Leede is behind both properties, and shared ownership of the celebrity-favourite Gwinganna with Deadpool & Wolverine star Jackman, his ex-wife Deborra-Lee Furness, and entertainment guru Paul Dainty. Jackman, whose bitter recent split from Furness made headlines, shared highlights from his 2024 stay at Gwinganna on social media. He EcoView Retreat is wholly owned by Mr De Leede, who also founded the Fitness First gym franchise. He described the newest venture as a 'mind-blowing' addition to his Hinterland offerings. The $9m project at 660 Trees Rd is for sale through an expressions of interest campaign with Kollosche Commercial agents Adam and Tony Grbcic. Adam Grbcic said the facility accommodated 30 guests over 15 luxury villas, offering an estimated annual revenue of $2m. It would be sold with forward bookings and an option to retain the current on-site manager. The first group of guests were scheduled to arrive within days for a corporate event. Rates started at $6,7000 per day to hire the entire retreat. Developers warned to boost project starts Motocross mansion named Australia's hottest home Mr De Leede said EcoView was modelled on a 'host your own' or self-hire concept for corporate events and private groups, unlike the award-winning Gwinganna, which catered to cashed-up individual guests. He said he was selling in order to 'practice what I preach' — spend more time relaxing — given he owns multiple other assets including Komune in Bali. 'I am thrilled after three years of planning and construction, to finally unveil this amazing venture,' said Mr De Leede. 'I am equally excited to be simultaneously bringing it to market, opening up the opportunity for a savvy investor to own and expand on this incredibly unique and highly profitable business concept and commercial offering. 'With Nature-Based Tourism zoning approved for wellness and retreat activities and operations, the versatility and flexibility of EcoView means its potential is bound only by the imagination.' Potential uses included boutique weddings, corporate retreats, medical health or rehabilitation recovery clinics, private family gatherings, or even silent discos. Mr Grbcic said EcoView would suit an Australian investor seeking a 'hands-off' asset, given the low-maintenance business model requiring only one full-time staffer. 'Everything required to operate this as a successful and profitable business has already been carefully considered and tested. Every detail, down to the crockery in the kitchen, is ready and in place,' he said. 'Having said that, extensive potential remains, not only within the existing space, but on the wider property to expand on what are already promising income returns.' Offering complete privacy and magical views of the valley and coastline, the retreat tapped into an evolving global trend for more sustainable nature-based and wellness experiences. Alongside the twin-share villas, the property includes a main building with a reception area, commercial-grade kitchen, shared living and dining spaces and five multipurpose rooms, as well as a manager's residence. Additional facilities include a yoga room or conference space, gym with three infra-red saunas, hydrotherapy pools and outdoor leisure spaces. Property records show Mr De Leede acquired the parcel for $1.975m in 2005. Gwinganna was also listed for sale in 2022, but failed to secure a buyer. Mr De Leede said he remained open to selling the larger asset. Expressions of interest close on July 3.
The Independent
6 days ago
- Business
- The Independent
Amazon itineraries have been revealed for CroisiEurope's new luxury river cruise ship
Canoe trips along the Amazon and meetings with indigenous communities are among the experiences that cruise line CroisiEurope is set to offer as the brand prepares to debut on the world's longest river in 2027. The European river cruise will debut RV Brasilian Dream in 2027 with three 11-day itineraries to choose from – The Amazon & Rio Negro round trip from Manaus, The Amazon & Rio Tapajos between Manaus and Santarém, and Cruise Along the Amazon Between Brazil & Colombia, which sails between Manaus and Tabatinga. From January to June, cruise passengers will be able to explore the flooded forest by canoe, getting up close to river dolphins and aquatic birds. Between July and December, itineraries will focus on the region's white sandy beaches and abundant wildlife along the riverbanks. Highlights of the cruises will include visits to major parks and UNESCO-type protected areas, while passengers will be able to observe wildlife in dinghies and from dugout canoes. There will also be meetings with indigenous communities, evening excursions and visits to villages on stilts along the riverbank, plus the chance to learn about local crafts, plants and produce and a variety of on-board lectures. Further details, including dates, prices and when bookings will open will be announced at the beginning of July 2025. The cruises will take place on the new 32-guest RV Brasilian Dream, a four-deck ship inspired by Amazonian culture. Accommodation includes 16 suites with private balconies, including two presidential suites suspended between the sky and water. There will also be a gourmet restaurant serving Brazilian-inspired dishes, a spa, fitness room, sun deck and a conference room. As part of its commitment to protecting and preserving the Amazon, CroisiEurope said it is implementing the latest eco innovations, including engines that meet the strictest environmental standards, an advanced wastewater treatment system and solar panels that will allow the ship to shut down its generators at night and operate on batteries.
Daily Mail
27-05-2025
- Business
- Daily Mail
Prince Harry makes surprise trip to China as estranged father King Charles touches down in Canada for historic visit
Prince Harry made a surprise visit to China yesterday at the same time King Charles touched down in Canada for a state visit. The Duke of Sussex made the trip for a tourism conference in Shanghai where he advocated for sustainable travel. In his first ever visit to the country, Harry spoke to fulfil his role as co-founder of Travalyst, an organisation which promotes environmentally friendly forms of travel. His older brother Prince William made a similar diplomatic trip to China ten years ago, marking the first official royal visit in 30 years. Meanwhile, Harry's estranged father Charles visited Canada yesterday with his wife Queen Camilla to attend the State Opening at the Parliament in Ottawa - marking the first time the monarch has done so since his mother Queen Elizabeth in 1977. Charles and Camilla were greeted with shouts of 'welcome home' as they exited their plane which had travelled from the UK. Their two-day trip to Canada has been branded 'momentous' due to its bold show of solidarity with the country, as clashes with US President Donald Trump over sovereignty continue. Prior to the trip, Charles was reportedly 'concerned' about the growing friction between Canada and the US. Meanwhile Harry - during his address to the Envision 2025 Global Partner Conference - told the travel industry it must do more to reach its climate change targets before the end of the decade. Discussing the issue at the conference, the Prince said: 'Climate change isn't just an environmental challenge – it's a critical business emergency, costing the global economy $143billion dollars annually. 'Now is the moment for the industry to reaffirm its commitment to being a force for good. 'Challenges will undoubtedly rise, but if there's one thing I've learned in my life, it's that meaningful change never comes easily. Speaking in Shanghai at Group's Envision 2025 Global Partner Conference, the Duke delivered the keynote address to industry leaders from across the region The monarch, who is head of state for Canada, is also anticipated to meet with Indigenous leaders and veterans during his trip with Camilla, amid ongoing efforts to support reconciliation efforts 'The true measure of our commitment is how we respond when the path becomes difficult. We must never give up.' On his 20th visit to Canada, Charles met crowds to hear thanks and gratitude from members of the public. The monarch, who is head of state for Canada, is also anticipated to meet with Indigenous leaders and veterans during his trip with Camilla, amid ongoing efforts to support reconciliation efforts. Back in March, Charles held a meeting with then-Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, after the Commonwealth leader was met with mounting pressure from the US.
Zawya
20-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Armenia charts responsible tourism growth, eyes investments
Armenia is positioning tourism as a key pillar of economic development, with plans to expand infrastructure, diversify source markets, and promote sustainable practices, according to the Chairman of Armenia's Tourism Committee. 'Our population is only 3 million but we have big plans to grow tourism,' Lusine Gevorgyan told Zawya Projects, adding that the country welcomed 2.2 million international tourists in 2023. She noted that efforts are underway to upgrade travel infrastructure and enhance service quality across the sector. 'Our focus is not on mass tourism, but rather on attracting conscious travellers who value Armenia's natural and cultural assets,' Gevorgyan said. In addition to ATM 2025 in Dubai last month, the country has participated in global expos such as FITUR in Madrid and ITB Berlin to promote tourism. At ITB Berlin, Armenia received recognition as the Best Adventure Destination for 2025 at ITB. Beyond adventure travel, Armenia is leveraging its Christian heritage, gastronomy, and traditional crafts to attract visitors. It is also promoting medical tourism by highlighting the affordability and quality of care available in local clinics. With festivals throughout the year, the tourism committee has set its sights on festival tourism. 'The committee is supporting 12 festivals this year, which includes the Yerevan Wine Festival which attracted more than 100,000 people last year,' Gevorgyan said. While Russia is the key source market, accounting for 40 percent of tourist, last year saw increase in tourist numbers from France, Germany, and the GCC countries. Engagement is expanding with India, Kazakhstan, and China, with steps toward easing visa procedures and strengthening diplomatic ties. To attract foreign investment, the government has introduced infrastructure support in terms of roads, power and water and cashback incentives for qualified tourism developments. Successful projects such as the Myler Winter Resort in Aragats demonstrate investor interest, the chairman said. With rising tourist arrivals, workforce training is a priority, according to the Chairman. 'Two new hospitality schools are scheduled to open in 2024 in Dilijan and Gyumri. The tourism committee will make regional training programmes will cover service, sustainability, and hospitality education programmes in 10 regions,' she noted. Looking ahead, the Tourism Strategy 2026–2030, which is currently being prepared, will guide long-term sector development. The plan includes sustainable tourism, targeted market expansion in Asia and the Middle East, and popular destinations modeled on global benchmarks like Dubai. 'A UAE-Armenia investment forum is scheduled for later this year in Yerevan,' she disclosed. Gevorgyan emphasised Armenia's commitment to preserving the environment and local culture. Steps include training licensed guides, sensitising hotels and businesses to importance of conservation, promoting waste management, encouraging eco-accommodations, and integrating tourism into community-based development. 'We aim to grow tourism responsibly—supporting the economy while safeguarding Armenia's heritage,' the chairman concluded. (Writing by SA Kader; Editing by Anoop Menon) (
