Maldives, anyone?
Got a recent Cathay Pacific press release announcing that b e g i n n i n g October 27 this year, CX will commence a new flight schedule from Hong Kong to the Maldives four times a week. ( This is still tentative per g o v e r n m e n t approval.)
“Located in the middle of the Indian Ocean, the Maldives is a chain of islands with unsurpassed beauty in its pristine white beaches, azure seas and amazing coral reefs. The islands are home to a rich marine life, including several endangered species, and are considered by many travellers as the perfect place for a honeymoon. Visitors to the Maldives holding Philippine passports currently enjoy a free 30- day visa on arrival at the capital city of Male.
“To ensure that passengers enjoy maximum comfort in their journey to the Maldives, CX will use an Airbus A330- 300 equipped with the award- winning Business Class cabin and its amenities, the new Premium Economy Class and Long- haul Economy Class cabins. Flights will depart from Hong Kong to Male International Airport every Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday.
“CX Chief Executive John Slosar said: ‘ The Maldives is the perfect getaway for holiday makers from around the world. Cathay Pacific is a premium service airline and our passengers will enjoy the best products and services when they fly with us to the Maldives.’
CX 601 HKG- MLE departs 5: 15pm and arrives 9: 25pm every Wednesday,
Thursday, Saturday and Sunday
CX 602 MLE- HKG departs 11: 35pm and arrives the following morning 8: 55
Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday”
For further information, please contact Ms. Connie Cimafranca at tel. # 231- 3747 or email: ceb# mktg@ cathaypacific. com
My second son Allen and his bride, Dr. Jennifer Toledo, spent their honeymoon in the Maldives as both love the beachcombing existence. That’s a honeymoon that is purely enjoyment of nature’s bounty and focusing on getting to know each other’s habits, quirks and idiosyncrasies without the usual static of a metropolitan nightlife, nor the metro’s daily grind.
One thing the honeymooners shared: be sure to bring bottled water in your luggage. Bottled water in the islands will cost you an arm and a leg! This was what Allen & Jinjin warned when they were there for their honeymoon in 2003.
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A Note on Down Under
Australia has been a sort of “I’ll think about it” destination for the Filipino traveler because of the expensive airfare involved. However, the lures of that island continent Down Under have drawn more Filipino travelers over there, despite the steep cost of airfare.
Good news, airlines are promoting the Manila-Australia routes with promotions. There was even a promo by HSBC among its Premier cardholders for a ridiculously low rate from Cebu to Sydney through its airline partner Cathay Pacific Airways. Unfortunately, the offer was only until July 31. More good news: Philippine Airlines has some interesting fare offers, but ex- Manila.
The Gold Coast is a lively place with many theme parks, including Universal Studios. South Australia is a haven of many world- renowned vineyards and wineries where – one fam tour we did this – one can stay in a farmhouse amidst vineyards and the proprietors will cook for you in their spacious kitchen. It has an Old England feel, with high tea in the cozy library area, and a typical English breakfast of muffins and marmalade. For the up- market niche, there is Hamilton Island in the Great Barrier Reef – a lovely wedding cum honeymoon destination ( among wealthy Japanese). You can choose your wedding attire through the internet and voila! you are ready for your wedding. Tourists in the island are encouraged to be instant well- wishers for the wedding couple… although not to the reception, if there is any! Usually, the couple will segue smoothly into a honeymoon mode right after the ceremony and have a private special dinner by themselves.
Travel safely… travel well!