Jenny Yu Travel Counsellor

Are you travelling to the UK this Summer with a child who has a different surname to you? 👧 To minimise delays at the border, please bring some paperwork that confirms your relationship to the child. Take a look at this further guidance 👉 https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/coming-to-the-uk/faster-travel-through-the-uk-border

If you’re jetting off on your Summer holiday from Manchester Airport soon & may need extra time & support for your airport journey, pick up a hidden disabilities lanyard from the assistance desk ✈️ Additional info can be found here ➡️ https://www.manchesterairport.co.uk/help/special-assistance/invisible-disabilities

Brits Could Face Prison Sentences For Va**ng While On Holiday Several popular holiday destinations have completely banned va**ng, and that could mean a jail sentence

*TRAVEL ADVICE* - a go live date has now been announced for the new express drop off charges, which will be 10th July. More information can also be found here: https://www.manchesterairport.co.uk/pick-up-and-drop-off-info/

Have you been affected by the failure of Monarch Group or know someone who has? We believe that it is important for everyone, not just our customers, to be aware of the importance of booking with someone that they trust and being clear on the financial protection that they have. If you've been affected, we've put together some points on what you can do next and how you may be protected. Alternatively, you can also contact our dedicated Freephone number on 08000612155 or email us at [email protected] and we will be happy to provide you with any information and advice. https://www.travelcounsellors.co.uk/gb/leisure/explore/monarch-were-here-to-help/

Travel news | Virgin Atlantic Keep up to date with the latest news and alerts from Virgin Atlantic, with up to the minute information when you need it.

Useful information for you all...✈️

Ryanair cuts luggage allowance 'to reduce flight delays' The airline says it has taken the decision as flights are being delayed because of a shortage of overhead locker space.

Lapland Day Trip, Dec 21 Stansted on sale now see Santa before he starts his epic journey around the world http://ow.ly/3FdN30dXbGv

Walt Disney World

France – Air Quality Certificates


Good Afternoon,


I have been made aware of recent environmental schemes that have now launched in the French cities of Paris, Lyon and Grenoble.

It is now mandatory that all vehicles (registered either in France or abroad) will need to obtain an Air Quality Certificate to be able to drive in central Paris, Lyon or Grenoble. Successful applicants will receive a Crit’Air pollution sticker which must be displayed in the vehicle at all times to avoid a fine.

There are restrictions on older vehicles (currently those registered before 2001) driving during peak hours, within each of the cities above. The restrictions vary per city and often depends on the current city’s pollution levels. Newer cars or those with low emissions do not currently face restrictions providing the pollution stickers are visibly displayed in the vehicle.

If you wish to drive within central Paris, Lyon or Grenoble with your own vehicle (not registered in France) you will need to apply for an Air Quality Certificate.

I have been assured that all rental cars in these areas will have valid air quality certificates and stickers fitted and no action will be required to be taken by the driver.


Kind Regards,

British Airways – Cashless Payment at London Heathrow, Gatwick and all North America airports



As from the 1 April 2017, British Airways will be unable to accept cash payments at many of the airports they operate from, such as London Heathrow, London Gatwick and in North America.

This includes all types of payments, such as for extra bags, additional/exit row seats, changes to tickets, service charges, etc.

Customers who cannot pay with a credit or debit card should check with a member of the British Airways airport staff for available options for converting cash to a payment card as this will vary by each airport:

London Heathrow: customers can buy a Multi-Currency Cash Passport from Travelex

North America: customers can either buy a Multi-Currency Cash Passport from Travelex, or use Cash-to-Credit card kiosks to convert cash into a prepaid debit card for a $5 charge per transaction. Any charges associated with the use of a cash conversion machine are collected by the company who owns and operates the machine.

Customers using prepaid debit cards should not throw them away until travel is complete, even if the card is empty. If we need to refund any costs, we will be returning these to their original form of payment.

Kind regards,

Jenny

Electronic devices on flights to the US and UK

Good Evening,

The Duty Office are aware that the UK and USA have imposed a ban on travelling with certain electronic devices in hand luggage.

The baggage restrictions are set to be imposed as early as 25th March, however in the case for UK flights, the UK Government has advised that they have left this in the hands of the airlines to decide on when they should impose.

Current reports indicate that any electronic device larger than a smartphone will not be permitted in hand luggage. Such items include but not limited to, tablets and laptops and other devices larger than 16cm x 9.3cm.

The ban affects most flights to the US or UK from certain countries in the Middle East, North Africa and also Turkey. A current list of airlines and airports affected for direct travel to the US or UK can be seen below:

USA bound Flights

Any direct USA bound flight from any of the below will likely be affected by the ban:

1. Mohammed V International, Casablanca, Morocco
2. Ataturk Airport, Istanbul, Turkey
3. Cairo International Airport, Egypt
4. Queen Alia International, Amman, Jordan
5. King Abdulaziz International, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
6. King Khalid International, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
7. Kuwait International Airport
8. Hamad International, Doha, Qatar
9. Abu Dhabi International, United Arab Emirates
10. Dubai International, United Arab Emirates
There are nine airlines which will currently be affected by the above:
- Royal Jordanian
- EgyptAir
- Turkish Airlines
- Saudi Arabian Airlines
- Kuwait Airways
- Royal Air Maroc
- Qatar Airways
- Emirates
- Etihad Airways


UK Bound Flights

We understand that this will affect all airports in the following areas:

- Turkey
- Lebanon
- Jordan
- Egypt
- Tunisia
- Saudi Arabia

There are fourteen airlines which will currently be affected by the above:

- British Airways
- Easyjet
- Jet2
- Monarch
- Thomas Cook
- Thomson
- Turkish Airlines
- Pegasus Airways
- Atlas-Global Airlines
- Middle East Airlines
- Egyptair
- Royal Jordanian
- Tunis Air
- Saudia

As it is likely that more airlines, cruise companies and suppliers may also impose such restrictions, advice is that regardless of the destination or method of travel, all passengers should check luggage restrictions accordingly.

Kind regards

Jenny

Demonstrations in Bahrain


Good Afternoon,


We have been informed that mass demonstrations are currently taking place across Bahrain from 2nd – 4th March.

The FCO has updated their travel advice to the country regarding this matter as historically these type of demonstrations and protests have regularly turned violent.

We would advise all clients currently in Bahrain to follow local advice and avoid all large crowds and gatherings, monitoring the local media where possible.

We will continue to monitor the situation and provide further updates where appropriate.


Kind regards

Jenny

USA Weather Conditions

Good Morning,

We have been made aware of poor weather conditions which is set to affect most parts along the East Coast today (9th February)

Brief but heavy rain downpours are expected and will soon be followed by heavy snowfall (1- 2 inches per hour). Some areas are reported to expect up to 12 inches of snow over the next 12-24 hours.

A disruption to travel is to be anticipated with further possibility of power outages and downed trees.

We would advise anyone due to travel to and from this area to check the status of their journey with the airline and to allow plenty of time for their journey.

We will continue to monitor the situation and provide further updates where appropriate.

Jenny x

Good Morning,

I have been informed that severe snow is currently affecting Istanbul.
As a result of the snow storm both Istanbul Ataturk Airport (IST) and Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW) have been closed temporarily. Flights into/out of the airports have been cancelled and/or rerouted. It is likely that this will continue until the weather improves.

I would recommend anyone in resort or expected to travel to or via this area to monitor the status of any booked trips with the relevant operator and by checking their flight status regularly. Specific advice on airline policy will be located on each airlines website.
If currently in Istanbul clients allow additional time where possible and follow the local advise.

We will continue to monitor the situation and provide further updates where appropriate.

Thank you 😊

Storm Barbara

Good Morning,

The Met Office has issued an amber "be prepared" weather warning for large parts of Scotland and Northern England for Friday and Christmas Eve. Yellow "be aware" warnings are also in place for Scotland and parts of Northern Ireland for Wednesday to Saturday.
Recent forecasts indicate that winds of up to 90mph are to be expected, which is likely to cause disruption to power supplies and the possibility of some structural damage.

It is likely that during this time there will be many disruptions to flights and ferries.

We would advise anyone who is due to travel over this period, to allow plenty of time for their journey and check the status of the trip with their operator.

I will continue to monitor the situation and provide further updates if appropriate.

Kind regards

Jenny 🎅🏻

London – Weather Conditions

Good Afternoon,

We are aware that thick fog across parts of Southern England is causing some disruption to scheduled flight services in London.

Recent reports indicate that all of London’s major airports are experiencing delays and cancellations due to the poor weather, which is also forecast to continue tomorrow (18th December).

We would recommend anyone expecting to travel to or from London this weekend by air; monitor the status of the flight with the airline.

I will continue to monitor the situation and provide further updates if appropriate.


Kind Regards,

Jenny

If you're a fan of Tenerife, then this is the deal for you!

Discover a new kind of beachfront luxe on the sun-drenched island of Tenerife at the brand-new Hard Rock Hotel Tenerife! Plus, book before the 15th December and enjoy a fantastic 32% opening discount on a seven-night stay in February.

With superior service, luxurious accommodation and spectacular facilities that would make a rock star jealous, a stay at Hard Rock Hotel Tenerife promises to be a real treat for the senses. Wonderfully located on the island’s sunny southern coast, close to Adeje, you can choose to do as much or as little as you like at this super-stylish hotel. From relaxing by one of the three sparkling swimming pools or the lovely natural saltwater lagoon, through to yoga, Pilates and aqua gym, Hard Rock Hotel Tenerife has the world class facilities to enable you to live out the holiday you’ve always dreamt of. The resort also boasts an incredible Beach Club and the sublime Rock Spa where you can rejuvenate with some good old-fashioned pampering.

When it’s time to dine, your taste buds will be well and truly tantalised by the sumptuous cuisine that’s on offer. Savour gorgeous grill food at Montauk, awe-inspiring Asian specialities at Narumi, and Mediterranean cuisine and classic Spanish dishes at Aliole. When night falls, sip a stylish cocktail at one of the resort’s many bars or head to Tenerife’s very first open-air stage, which hosts some of the world’s most famous acts including DJ sessions, live concerts and gigs. Retiring to your Deluxe Silver Room with its cutting-edge décor, modern design and a furnished outdoor terrace, you’ll certainly round off each day in comfort and style!

What's Included

Prices based on 2 adults sharing a Deluxe Silver Room at Hard Rock Hotel Tenerife on a bed and breakfast basis, for 7 nights from 01/02/17. Offer includes return flights from Birmingham with Norwegian, and transfers. Offer also includes a 32% opening discount. Bookings must be made by 15/12/16. Subject to availability. Give me a call for further details.

7 nights from £875 per person

My latest deal with Travel Counsellors is a fantastic trip to Dubai, involving the following;
3 nights at Atlantis, The Palm
- From £615 per person
- Meet & Greet at Dubai Int Airport
- Private Return Transfers
- Afternoon Desert Safari with BBQ dinner
- Flights not included
- Book by 12 November 2016
Any questions, just let me know! x

London – Weather Conditions

Good Morning,

I have been informed that fog is causing some disruption to flights today across London and Southern England.

I'm aware there has been a number of cancellations at London Heathrow (LHR) and London City (LCY) today due to the poor visibility. Delays to scheduled services are also being experienced at London Gatwick (LGW), London Stansted (STN) and also at London Luton (LTN) this morning.

We would recommend anyone expecting to travel today by air to or from London, or any other airport in Southern England, check the status of the flight with the airline and allow plenty of time for their trip.

I will continue to monitor the situation and provide further updates where appropriate.

Kind regards,

Jenny

Eurotunnel – Power Failure

Good Afternoon,


We have been informed that all Eurotunnel and Eurostar services have been temporarily suspended due to a reported power failure.

Eurotunnel have assured that they are currently in the process of resolving the issue inside the tunnel, however it is causing disruption to services.

We would recommend that all clients expecting to use the Eurostar or Eurotunnel services for the rest of the day, check the status of their service and allow plenty of time for their trip.

We will continue to monitor the situation and provide further updates where appropriate.


Kind regards,

Kowloon, Hong Kong 1st Oct - Road Closures


We have been advised that there will be road closures in the Tsim Sha Tsui area of Kowloon, Hong Kong on the evening of Saturday 1st October due to the Firework Celebrations for National Day.

The Fireworks Display, starting at 9:00pm on October 1st 2016, will attract large crowds. Road closures and special traffic arrangements will be implemented in the surrounding area from approximately 7:00pm onwards that evening.

We advise anyone travelling in the area make provision for this and expect delays.

Kind regards,

Jenny 😉

Greek Ferry Strike


Good Evening,


We are aware that strike action is scheduled to take place this week affecting all ferry services across Greece.

The Greek seafarers’ union is planning a 48 hour walk-out from 0600am on Thursday 22nd September until 0600am on Saturday 24th September.

We would recommend all clients expecting to travel in Greece by ferry during this time, check the status of the trip with the operator.

We will continue to monitor the situation and update accordingly where appropriate.


Kind Regards

Manchester Airport – Weather Conditions

Good Evening,

We are aware that poor weather conditions are currently affecting flight operations at Manchester Airport (MAN) this evening.

There have been a number of delays, cancellations and inbound diversions to scheduled services due to stormy weather.

Please check if your due to travel to or from Manchester Airport this evening, check the status of the flight with your airline and allow plenty of time for your trip.

Other airports may be affected later this evening as the storm crosses the UK.

Thanks Jenny

Hi all,

I just wanted to let you know that we're aware of the flash floods that occurred across much of southern Greece on 7th September causing significant damage to the areas affected.

The flooding hit towns and cities from Thessaloniki in the north-east to Sparta in the south.

If you've booked a trip and are worried you may be affected, please get in touch and I will look into it for you.

Thank you.