QANTAS AIRWAYS
HISTORY
Qantas is the world's second oldest airline. It was founded in the Queensland outback in 1920 and is Australia’s largest domestic and international airline. Qantas is recognised as one of the world's leading long distance airlines, having pioneered services from Australia to North America and Europe.
The Qantas story is inextricably linked with the development of civil aviation in Australia. It begins with fragile biplanes carrying one or two passengers in open cockpits and progresses to the new Airbus A380s flying some 450 people half way around the world in a day.
But, it is a story of human endeavor, not just machines. A few determined individuals overcame formidable obstacles to establish the Queensland and Northern Territory Aerial Services Ltd (QANTAS). Supported by committed staff and loyal customers, the airline persevered through war and peace to serve the nation and build an enterprise. The Qantas story is about the people who have created its exciting and productive history - its staff, its customers and the excellence of its business partners and key suppliers...
The Qantas Group employs approximately 36,000 people and offers services across a network covering 151 destinations in 38 countries – 58 in Australia and 93 in other countries (including those covered by codeshare partners) in Australia, Asia and the Pacific, the Americas, Europe and Africa.
The future holds many challenges for Qantas - maintaining safe operations and world class product standards while building a viable and competitive position long term for the airline.
FREQUENT FLYER PROGRAM
Membership Levels
Three membership tiers above the entry Bronze level – Silver, Gold and Platinum. Members can move up to the next level by accumulating the required Status credits (in addition to normal program points) which can be earned each time they fly on an eligible flight with Qantas, Jetstar, oneworld alliance airlines and Air Pacific (flights must include a minimum of four eligible flights with a Qantas, QantasLink or Jetstar flight number, each year). Each membership level offers particular privileges, including higher priority check-in, baggage allowances and, for Platinum and Gold members, complimentary Qantas Club membership. Eligible Frequent Flyer members also have access to oneworld lounges. The higher the membership status, the greater the privileges including additional points when flying on all Qantas, British Airways and American Airlines flights.
Booking Award Flights
Call 13 11 31 (Australia), 0800 101 500 (New Zealand) and +61 3 9658 5302 (outside Australia and New Zealand). An additional assisted award booking fee of 2,500 points per person applies to bookings made via the phones.
British Airways
British Airways celebrated its 90th
British Airways is celebrating its 90th anniversary on 25 August 2009.
British Airways is the largest airline of the United Kingdom and the third largest in Europe (behind Air France-KLM and Lufthansa). British Airways is a member of Oneworld, an airline alliance including Qantas and Cathay Pacific. and it's one of the world’s finest and most established international airlines offers a worldwide network that covers more than 154 destinations in 75 countries.
British Airways has a unique alliance with Qantas. They have a Revenue Sharing Agreement and a Joint Services Agreement (JSA).
Service: Offer the Kangaroo Route ie: Australia via Bangkok or Singapore to Frankfurt or London.
British Airways operates twice daily flights from Sydney to London, via Singapore or Bangkok, and daily from Melbourne to London, via Singapore, with connections across its network to other European destinations such as Frankfurt and Paris.
Its main hubs are London Heathrow and London Gatwick, with a wide-reaching European and domestic shorthaul network, including smaller hubs at other UK airports including Manchester, from which some longer-haul flights are also operated.
Latest awards
SKYTRAX - Best Transatlantic Airline award 2009
SKYTRAX - Best Cabin Staff Western Europe 2009
BUSINESS TRAVELLER AWARDS 2009
- Best Airline
- Best Short Haul Carrier
- Best Frequent Flyer Program
QANTAS AIRWAYS
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Recommended Bangkok Hotels
Note: If you are flying with Thai Airways and stop over in Bangkok, discounted hotel rates may apply. Please contact our consultants for details.
Bangkok Airport Transfers
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Things to Do in Bangkok
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Singapore Stopver Accommodation
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Singapore Airport Transfers
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Things to Do in Singapore
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Best Hotels in Hong Kong
Landmark Mandarin Oriental Hotel
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Hong Kong Airport Transfers
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Things to Do in Hong Kong
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Hong Kong General Info
Lying at the southeastern tip of China, Hong Kong adjoins the province of Guangdong (Canton), and is just south of the tropic of Cancer. The total land area of Hong Kong is 1,078 square kilometers, comprising Hong Kong Island (77.5 square kilometers); Kowloon (45.5 square kilometer); and the New Territories, including 235 outlying islands (955 square kilometers).
Today Hong Kong has become a great international trading post, a powerful manufacturing base and one of the world's largest financial centres.
Population and Language
The population as of 2002 was about 7.5 millions, almost 95 per cent of which is Chinese. Chinese and English are the official languages. Cantonese is the most widely spoken Chinese dialect, though Mandarin, Shanghainese and other Chinese dialects are also spoken. Many people, especially in shops, hotels, and service industries, speak English.
Climate
Hong Kong has a subtropical climate:
- Spring (March - mid-May): Temperature and humidity rising. Jackets or sweaters suggested. Average temperature: 23°C (73°F), humidity around 82%, sea temperature, 22.3° C (72° F)
- Summer
(late May - mid-September): Hot and humid. Temperature may rise to 33°C (91 °F) with humidity up to around 90%. . Shirtsleeves, cotton clothing, a sweater for indoors and an umbrella for outside suggested Average temperature: 28°C (82°F), humidity 80%, sea temperature 28°C (82°F). - Autumn
(late September - early December): temperature and humidity drop. Clear sunny days. Shirtsleeves to sweaters and light jackets suggested. Average temperature: 23°C (73°F), humidity 72%, sea temperature 17°C (63°F). - Winter
(late December- February): Cool with low humidity. Suits, light woollens and sometimes overcoats suggested. Average temperature: 17°C (62°F), humidity 72%, sea temperature 17°C (63°F).
Entry Regulations
Visitors must hold a valid passport, endorsed where necessary for Hong Kong. Citizens of some 24 countries, including the USA, Japan, and certain Western European and South American nations are permitted one-month visa-free visits. Three-month visa-free visits are available to another 23 countries as well as all Commonwealth countries.
Visitors from most countries can enter Hong Kong without a visa for periods of seven days to six months, depending on nationality. Check with any Chinese embassy or consulate for the latest status.
Health Regulations
Vaccination certificates are not required for yellow fever, cholera and typhoid for visitors travelling to Hong Kong. Check with your travel agent well before your departure, however, as requirements can change without notice.
Customs Allowance
Visitors may bring into Hong Kong free of duty:
- Liquor - A one-litre bottle of wine or spirits.
- Ivory - The importation and exportation of raw or worked ivory is governed by strict regulation. Firearms must be declared and handed into custody until departure.
Airport Facilities
A baggage storage service is available in the departure hall and the arrival hall. Other services include a bank, moneychangers, gift shops, duty-free shops, snack bars, restaurants, payphones, a police station, post office, a HK Telecom International Ltd. Office, HKTA Information Centres and private reception rooms.
Airport Departure Tax
Adults: HK$80; children (aged 12 years and under) free.
Safety
Hong Kong is generally considered a safe city by day or night. Policemen are very helpful, and those who speak English wear a red label under their shoulder badge. As in all big cities, avoid carrying large amounts of cash; traveller's cheques or credit cards are preferable. Make use of your hotel's safe-deposit boxes.
Currency
The unit of currency is the Hong Kong dollar (HK$). Notes issued by two private banks (the Hongkong and Shanghai Bank and Standard Chartered Bank) have denominations of $10, $20, $50, $100, $500, and $1000. The Bank of China issues all of the denominations except HK$10. There are silver coins for HK$1, HK$2, and HK$5, bronze coins for HK10 cents, HK20 cents and HK50 cents, and a new nickel and bronze coin for $10.
Most foreign currencies and traveller's cheques are easily changed in Hong Kong, either at banks, hotels or moneychangers (check how much you will get in return before handing over your money).
Tipping
Most restaurants add a 10 per cent service charge but an additional 5 per cent may be given, where deserved. When a service charge is not automatic, 10 per cent is acceptable. Small tips may also be given to taxi drivers, bellboys, doormen and washroom attendants.
Electricity
The voltage in Hong Kong is 200/220 volts, 50 cycles. Most hotels provide adaptors.
Water
All water direct from government mains in Hong Kong satisfies the United Nations World Health Organization standards. Bottled water is widely available in hotels and supermarkets.
Telephones
Telephones in Hong Kong are advanced, economical and easy to use. Local calls are free, and many stores and restaurants offer use of a telephone free of charge to patrons. Calls from public coin phones cost HK$1. Most hotels have International Direct Dialling (IDD). Please note that some hotels charge a handling fee for local and/or international calls. You can also make long-distance calls from (IDD) Public Coin Phones and from HK Telecom International Ltd. Offices. An easy method of making calls is to purchase stored-value phonecards (HK$50, $150 and $200), which can be used in any Cardphone box. The new Hello Phonecard (HK$100, $200,$300) is a stored value card that enables the user to place calls to and from over 30 countries from a touch-tone phone. Both types of cards can be purchased at HKTA Information and Gift Centres and most convenience stores. Call 013 for information.
Post Offices
The main post offices are on Hong Kong Island, next to the Star Ferry and in Kowloon at 10 Middle Road, Tsim Sha Tsui. Both are open from 8am to 6pm, Monday to Friday and 8am to 2pm on Saturday. All post offices close on Sunday and public holidays.
Television
There are two English-language channels. Programmes include a selection of locally produced shows as well as features from the UK, the US, and Australia. Also available is STAR TV (a satellite channel) and, in some areas, Cable TV (subscription television).
Radio
Fifteen radio channels are broadcast in Hong Kong. Six English-language channels provide a wide range of programmes and the BBC World Service is available 24 hours.
Office and Banking Hours
Most offices open from 9am to 5pm with a lunch hour from 1 pm to 2pm. On Saturday the hours are 9am to 1 pm. Some Chinese businesses open at 10am and close around 6pm or later. Major banks are open from 9am to 4.30pm on weekdays, 9am to 12.30pm on Saturday.
Getting Around In Hong Kong
Airport Transport
After you have reclaimed your baggage and passed through Customs, you will find yourself in the Buffer Hall of Hong Kong International Airport where the Hong Kong Tourist Association Information Centres are located . There you can obtain free visitor publications and any other assistance you may need.
Hong Kong International Airport is approximately 40 minutes' drive by car from all major hotels in Kowloon and about 50 minutes' drive via the Cross-Harbour Tunnel from all major hotels on Hong Kong Island (under normal traffic conditions). If you are making your own way to your hotel, follow the signs directing you to the Transport Terminus for taxis or use the airport coach service. If you have no local currency on arrival, change only enough at the airport to get you to your hotel.
Hotel Transport
Hotel bookings do not normally include transportation from the airport. However, if you have a prearranged hotel booking that includes an airport transfer, you should leave the Buffer Hall via the exit marked Hotel Transport and look for the hotel representative waiting to meet you.
Taxis
Taxis are numerous and readily available, and fares are low compared with those in most cities. Red taxis serve Hong Kong Island and Kowloon; green ones in the New Territories and blue taxis on Lantau Island operate at even lower rates. Many drivers speak some English but it is wise to have your destination written in Chinese characters.
Taxi drivers expect a tip, but just round up the fare to the nearest dollar. Drivers cannot pick up or drop off passengers on restricted streets, which are marked with yellow lines. New Territories taxis will pick up and drop off only in the New Territories. If you have any queries or complaints, note the taxi's number and call the 24-hour Police Hotline on 2527 7177.
Buses
Double-decker buses, which run from 6 AM till 3 midnight, cover most parts of the territory.
Fares range from HK$1 to HK$30.60. Exact change is required. You'll find that, in general the drivers do not speak much English.
Minibuses
Minibuses are small passenger vans which are yellow with a red stripe. They can pick up passengers and let them off anywhere except regular bus stops and the usual restricted areas. Fares range from HK$2 to HK$7.
Maxicabs
Maxicabs are yellow with a green stripe. They run along specific routes and have fixed prices ranging from HK$1 to HK$8. A sign on the front indicates the destination. Pay as you get on.
Trains
The Kowloon-Canton Railway (KCR) is 34 kilometres long and runs from Hung Hom in Kowloon up to the border with China. Trains run every tour to 10 minutes in each direction, and vary according to the ordinary single trip to Sheung Shui, the farthest you can go without a China visa). It's a go way to visit some of the New Territories' towns and villages.
The Mass Transit Railway (MTR), Hong Kong's fast, efficient and air-conditioned underground system, runs not only along the north side of Hong Kong Island, but also from Central across the harbour to divide into east and west branches in Kowloon. Stations are located by a X symbol. Fares range from HK$4 to HK$11. MTR and KCR stored-value tickets (HK$70-200) are also available.
The Light Rail Transit (LRT) is a high-speed surface system linking the New Territories towns of Tuen Mun Yuen Long. The LRT runs from 5.30am to 12.30am daily. Fares range from HK$3.20 to $4.70.
Ferries
The Star Ferry, which has connected Hong Kong and Kowloon since 1898, runs regularly between 6.30am to 11.30pm. At HK$ 2.20 (upper deck), it must be one of the cheapest and most scenic ferry rides in the world. The crossing takes approximately eight minutes.
The Hong Kong Ferry (Holdings) Company provides other regular and inexpensive services which connect Hong Kong Island to other parts of the Kowloon Peninsula and to the outlying islands.
Trams
Since 1904, the tram system has run east to west along the north side of Hong Kong Island, and still provides a leisurely, grandstand view. The flat fare is HK$1.20 (exact change required) and the service operates between 6 AM and 1 AM.
The Peak Tram is one of the most advanced tram systems in the world, taking just eight minutes to climb Victoria Peak. The service operates from 7am to midnight and the single fare is HK$12 (HK$19 return). The funicular railway has run since 1888 and is still the quickest way to reach the Peak.
Car Hire
Self-drive rental cars are not often used in Hong Kong, but chauffeur-driven cars are widely available. Hotels have their own limousines for hire.
Rickshaws
The only means of travel in the old days, rickshaws today are used mainly for fun rides and photo sessions. Rickshaw drivers congregate at the Star Ferry on Hong Kong Island and charge for a trip round the block or for a photo session. Negotiate the price first.
Send us your requirements and China travel interest today. Contact us directly on 02 9299 0088.
British Airways
Bangkok Stopover Singapore Stopover London Stopover
Recommended Bangkok Hotels
Note: If you are flying with Thai Airways and stop over in Bangkok, discounted hotel rates may apply. Please contact our consultants for details.
Bangkok Airport Transfers
Book online transfer between Bangkok hotel and airport
Things to Do in Bangkok
Book online Bangkok tours and sightseeing & tickets
Singapore Stopver Accommodation
Note: If you are flying with Singapore airlines and stop over in Singapore, discounted hotel rates may apply. Please contact our consultants for details.
Singapore Airport Transfers
Book online transfer between airport and hotel or cruise/ferry port
Things to Do in Singapore
Book online tours and sightseeing
Recommonded Hotels in London
Other Accommodation
London Airport Transfers
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Things to Do in London
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QANTAS AIRWAYS
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The Qantas A380 The new Qantas A380 is on sale now for selected flights from Sydney and Melbourne to Los Angeles. The Qantas A380 is also on sale for selected flights from Sydney to Singapore and London for travel from mid January 2009... |
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FirstEnjoy the freedom of luxury - Your complete Qantas travel experience extends from reservation to destination... |
International BusinessWhether you are flying for business or pleasure you have the flexibility to choose how you spend your time... |
Domestic BusinessWe take all your business needs on board with extra privacy and space to relax or catch up on work... |
British Airways
First Class
BA believes that details make all the difference, BA is currently enhancing First to provide you with a more exclusive experience. From luxurious lounges to onboard fine dining. In the next few months you will be able to enjoy the finest in contemporary British sophistication, understated elegance and exceptional quality of service when you travel in our new First.
Check In - Be First
First on and off the plane, first to collect your luggage, fast–track through security and first to relax in our exclusive lounges, such as the Concorde Room at London Heathrow Terminal 5*.
Other options for check in are also available including:
Online - at ba.com up to 24 hours before your flight departs – choose your seat and print your boarding pass.
Mobile - logon to ba2go.com using your internet–enabled mobile phone to check in wherever you are.
Airport kiosk - use our quick and easy check–in kiosks at the airport.
*Dedicated First check–in is available at selected airports. Fast Track Security is available at London Heathrow, London Gatwick and New York JFK.
Baggage allowance
You are entitled to up to three standard–sized pieces of checked baggage at 32kg each on all routes at no additional charge. You can carry on one piece of standard–sized hand baggage as well as one laptop sized bag, handbag or briefcase.
Lounges
Visit any one of over 60 dedicated British Airways lounges and 90 partner lounges worldwide and discover a place of calm and tranquillity.
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Pre-flight dining The Concorde Room at London Heathrow Terminal 5 Elemis Travel Spa |
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On Board
The new First suite and cabin is an elegant environment featuring thoughtful and practical touches, such as unique personal windows, seats that are 60% wider at the shoulder and your own wardrobe.
Should you decide you’re ready to sleep, you can slip into wonderfully soft cotton pyjamas and request Turndown Service at any time of the day: Your seat turns into a fully flat bed with a specially designed single–piece quilted mattress, crisp white 400–thread Egyptian cotton duvet and pillow to help you to drift off in comfort.
When it’s time to freshen up, you can use the range of well–being products from D.R. Harris, one of London’s longest established traditional pharmacies that only uses the finest natural ingredients, including e.g. eye gel, lip balm and moisturiser, all enclosed in a stylish Anya Hindmarch bag.
In-flight Dining
Settle back with a chilled champagne cocktail as you ponder the delights of the First menu. With something to suit every taste, what you choose and when you choose it is entirely up to you.
The First menu is created in consultation with some of the world’s finest chefs. It alters from month to month according to the quality of seasonal ingredients. You can choose your lunch and dinner à la carte or opt for fresh "Catch of the Day", delicious seafood supplied by the renowned Loch Fyne*. If you prefer a lighter option, a less formal Bistro service is available offering a selection of salads, soups, pasta and hot sandwiches.
First also offers a fine selection of champagne, wines, spirits and non–alcoholic drinks.
Indulge in sumptuous Afternoon Tea, a First signature dish, for which BA took the inspiration from one of London’s most luxurious and iconic hotels, The Dorchester, to honour this British ritual and tradition. It includes a mouth–watering selection of finely cut sandwiches and sumptuous cakes, served with a variety of flavoursome teas from around the world.
The breakfast menu offers a selection of main and lighter options.
*Available on UK departing flights only
Entertainment
Let our First entertainment system take you to the movies, play games or catch up with a favourite artist. With a 15–inch screen and noise–cancelling headset, you can choose from over 100 movies, a selection of TV programmes, over 50 music CDs and audio books as well as 20 interactive games. Or, if you prefer to relax with pictures, movies or music of your own, or need to charge your laptop, simply plug in your iPod via USB or RCA jack for a wider screen experience.
On Arrival
First service helps you fast–track through arrivals at key airports.
Arrivals lounges
Freshen up in Arrivals lounges at London Heathrow Terminal 5 and London Gatwick (in the Sofitel Arora Hotel). Here you can shower, enjoy a meal, catch up on the day’s news and check your emails.
The Arrivals lounge at London Heathrow Terminal 5 is open daily from 05.00 – 14:00 and offers you the following services:
Business Class
You can experience the latest Club World cabin on all our Boeing 747 and Boeing 777 aircraft. The original, award-winning Club World cabin featuring the world's first fully flat bed is fitted on our Boeing 767 aircraft.
Check In
Online - at ba.com up to 24 hours before your flight departs – choose your seat and print your boarding pass.
Mobile - logon to ba2go.com using your internet–enabled mobile phone to check in wherever you are.
Airport kiosk - use our quick and easy check–in kiosks at the airport.
If you are travelling with bags, take them to one of the Fast Bag Drop desks when you arrive at the airport, then speed through Fast Track security to our lounges.
Check in at a kiosk
If you are unable to check in online you can save time at the airport by using one of our check-in kiosks, available at selected locations. Choose your seat and print off your Boarding Pass then take your baggage to a Fast Bag Drop desk.
There is a dedicated check-in area at London Heathrow Terminal 5 for Club World customers, located in Zone H. You can also choose to check in at a dedicated Club World desk, where available.
Lounges
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Terminal 5 Galleries Club
If you are flying from London Heathrow Terminal 5 you can experience the luxurious Galleries Club lounges located in Terminal 5A and Terminal 5B.
On Board
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Luxury wash bag
Your wash bag contains everything you need to feel totally invigorated on the flight including, Elemis in-flight skincare products, toothbrush, toothpaste, eye mask, earplugs and comfy flight socks.
Your seat, your bed, your space
Stretch out in total comfort and privacy on our luxurious bed with the following features:
In-flight Dining
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Club World’s menu is designed by the British Airways Taste Team made up of the world’s top chefs, restaurateurs and food critics. The Taste Team meet regularly to discuss, create and develop Club World dishes. Members include:
The Club World menu combines the finest local and international produce in a range of exquisite dishes, from contemporary to classic. To accompany your meal, take advantage of our imaginatively selected and expertly sourced wine cellar, stocked with old and new world wines.
Club Kitchen
Feeling a little peckish? Help yourself in-between meals to a selection of tasty snacks and beverages from the on-board Club Kitchen including:
Entertainment
Relax in front of a movie or listen to some of your favourite music with your 26cm (10.4 inches) personal flat-screen, noise-cancelling headphones and entertainment options.
HighLife Entertainment’s Audio and Video On Demand (AVOD) system puts you in control. Choose from over 200 entertainment options. (no gap above and below the bullet points)
*AVOD is available on all Boeing 747s and longhaul Boeing 767s and is currently being fitted to the majority of our Boeing 777 fleet.
On Arrival
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Arrivals lounges
If you are arriving into London Heathrow Terminal 5 and London Gatwick why not enjoy a complimentary well-being treatment at the Elemis Travel Spa while the valet service presses your suit, ensuring you leave looking as good as you feel.
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Qantas/BA Business Class to Europe EX PERTH
Special offer from Qantas/BA for flights departing Perth to Europe. Departures until 31Dec10, on sale until 31Mar10.
Business class fare $7099 + tax
Taxes are approx $ 530 per person
Until 31Dec10
Perth
Amsterdam /Barcelona /Copenhagen /Dublin /Frankfurt /Helsinki
/London /Madrid /Manchester /Nice /Paris /Rome /Zurich/Munich
Minimum stay: 10 days
Maximum stay: 1 year
N/A
Enquiry/Booking Form (fields marked * are compulsory)
Specials
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