By Judy Newell
Mexico News
Viva Aerobus First Airline to Fly from New Tulum Airport
Viva Aerobus has confirmed it will be the first airline to operate flights from the new Tulum International Airport.
Viva Aerobus was informed by the government that the terminal will be ready for operation in April 2024.
The Tulum flight will turn the low-cost airline into the only Mexican carrier flying to Quintana Roo’s four international airports: Cancún, Chetumal, Cozumel and, once it is open, Tulum.
Although the airline will initially operate domestic routes, Airbus is working to form an alliance with carrier Allegiant Air to service small and medium-size cities in the United States.
International News
New Rules for Driving the Amalfi Coast this Summer
Italy’s stunningly scenic Amalfi Coast has long been a popular road trip for travelers, but this summer the winding route is getting some new rules designed to combat over-tourism and suffocating summer traffic.
ANAS, the company responsible for regulating Italy’s roads and highways, is enacting the new rules after being delivered a petition that garnered more than 10,000 signatures from local residents.
Now, during peak hours, drivers will have to follow an alternate license plate system meaning that on even-numbered days cars with plates ending in an even number will be prohibited from hitting the road and vice versa on odd-numbered days. Residents of the 13 coastal towns, taxis, public transportation, police, and emergency vehicles will be exempt, but the rules will apply to rental cars.
The restrictions go into effect June 15 through September 30 from 10am to 6pm and will also be applied during Holy Week and Easter which this year is from April 2 through April 9.
Cruise News
Go on Safari by Water
Spot elephants and birdlife from the comfort of the deck on a Chobe River cruise with Zambesi Queen Collection. (zqcollection.com)
As you drift down the river from Botswana, you’ll be able to take a village tour on the Namibian side of the river, go fishing, or take a water-based safari by tender boat. With only a small number of guests per vessel, cruising on one of the three Chobe Princesses is like being on your very own houseboat.
The entire vessel can also be booked exclusively. Opt for a superior cabin to view the passing parade from your own private balcony.
Cruise the Meandering Seine
Honfleur – Rouen – Mantes-La-Jolie – Paris – Melun – Paris
This unique itinerary from Honfleur to Melun offers a spectacle of beauty.
Let yourself be seduced by Honfleur, its picturesque streets and its Old Basin, breathe in Normandy on the Côte Fleurie, soak up nature in Giverny, admire the most prestigious historical monuments as you cross Paris and immerse yourself in French history in Rouen and the Château de Fontainebleau.
So many experiences that will make this cruise an extraordinary journey.
Cruise Highlights
Unprecedented cruise from Melun to Normandy
Experience Paris at night from the bow of the ship
All excursions included:
Tour the palace in Fontainebleau, residence of the French monarchs for over 800 years
The must-see sites in Paris
Giverny and Monet’s gardens
Art and history in Rouen
Astounding beauty on the Norman Abbey Circuit
The enchanting city of Honfleur and the Côte Fleurie
Seven days from US$1,151.
Deal of the Week
Archeological Gems of the Mediterranean
Reduced International Airfare and Special Fares
Renowned for its ancient archeological sites, the Mediterranean is a treasure trove for history enthusiasts.
Whether you are interested in exploring the spectacular ruins of the Forum of Nerva in Rome, want to witness the legendary Acropolis in Athens, or look forward to admiring the medieval fortified town of Carcassonne, you can discover remarkably preserved antiquities on an ocean voyage with Viking.
Reserve your stateroom today and receive reduced airfare and special fares on one of the fascinating journeys below.
Featured Ocean Voyages:
Ancient Mediterranean Treasures
Istanbul to Athens
International Airfare from US$499 and Special Fares
Eight days, six tours, two countries
Cruise fare from US$3,999
Airfare from US$1,299
Cities of Antiquity and the Holy Land
Rome to Athens
International Airfare from US$299 and Special Fares
15 days, nine tours, four countries
Cruise fare from US$5,099
Airfare per person from US$299
Journey to Antiquities
Rome to Athens
International Airfare from US$499 and Special Fares
Eight days, five tours, three countries
Cruise fare per person from US$3,599
Airfare per person from US $799
Judy Newell, an international travel consultant for over 50 years, heads Perfect Journeys and specializes in unique travel experiences to destinations around the world. She custom designs journeys that are tailored to suit clients’ interests, physical abilities, and budgets. Please contact Judy for further information on Travel News topics, Mexico, and international travel. Cell phone 415 111 8765, Vonage 949 300 3682; email judynewell@perfectjourneys.net. Her office is in Rancho Los Labradores on the highway to Dolores Hidalgo.
Sources: Mexico News Daily, National Geographic, Rope Cruises, Viking Ocean Cruises