Forget the Algarve – Portugal’s best winter escape is in the mountains

Forget the Algarve – Portugal’s best winter escape is in the mountains

A century ago, the Serra da Estrela mountains were Portugal’s answer to the Swiss health resorts of St Moritz and Davos. Now, a historic sanatorium has been given a 21st-century makeover and is drawing people back to the hills Navigating the high slopes of Portugal’s Serra da Estrela in midwinter requires serious negotiation with the elements, but my guide, João Pedro Sousa, makes it look simple. Angling his lean frame into the wind, he digs his plastic snow-shoes into a steep drift and pauses, scanning the white ridgeline. He’s looking for mariolas – small cairns of rocks, fused by ice, that will indicate our onward trail. “The landscape changes every day so you have to learn how to read it afresh,” he says, setting off again. “At this time of year, nature is a true artist.” I plod inelegantly in his wake, still clumsy in the frames clipped to my boots to keep me from sinking into the powder. At a quartzite outcrop rippled with rose and amber, we pause and drink in the view. Below us, cupped in the glacial scar of the Zêzere valley, is the terracotta-roofed town of Manteigas – founded in the 12th century and today the modest hub for tourism in the region. Ahead, on the horizon, João Pedro points out mainland Portugal’s highest peak, the 1,993-metre Torre, home to a small ski resort suited to beginners. “This region is full of surprises,” he grins. Continue reading...

The Norwegian Group delivers record results for 2025 and increases dividend

The Norwegian Group delivers record results for 2025 and increases dividend

For 2025, the Norwegian Group delivered an operating profit (EBIT) of NOK 3.732 million, the highest in the company’s history. The fourth quarter resulted in an operating profit (EBIT) of NOK 21 million, an improvement from a negative result in the same period in 2024. The Board of Directors will propose a dividend of NOK 0.80 per share for 2025, NOK 844 million in total, subject to approval at the Annual General Meeting.

Icelandair launches first Polish route with new Gdansk service for winter 2026/27

Icelandair launches first Polish route with new Gdansk service for winter 2026/27

Icelandair is welcoming its inaugural service to Poland this winter, as the airline launches 3-4 weekly flights between Keflavík International Airport to Gdansk starting 18 September 2026. Operating on the Boeing 737-MAX8, the new route positions Gdansk as a new gateway to Iceland and transatlantic travel. Alongside this, Iceland is home to a thriving Polish community, and this new route enables Polish expats to stay close to loved ones back home, while giving Icelandic expats in Poland easier access to family in Reykjavik.

flynas Secures Dual ISO Certifications for Environmental Sustainability and Quality in Aviation

flynas Secures Dual ISO Certifications for Environmental Sustainability and Quality in Aviation

flynas, the leading low-cost airline in the world and the best LCC in the Middle East, announced it has successfully achieved final certification for ISO 9001 (Quality Management System) and ISO 14001 (Environmental Management System), in a prestigious acknowledgment from the independent International Organization for Standardization (ISO), comprised of government bodies from over 160 countries, and dedicated to setting global standards for improving quality and safety across various industries and sectors.

ION Harbour by Simon Rogan in Valletta Remains Malta’s Only Two Michelin-starred Restaurant

ION Harbour by Simon Rogan in Valletta Remains Malta’s Only Two Michelin-starred Restaurant

Following the latest Michelin Guide Malta announcements, ION Harbour by Simon Rogan at Iniala Harbour House has retained its two Michelin stars, making it the island’s only two Michelin-starred restaurant for the third consecutive year. This achievement crowns a landmark year for Iniala Harbour House, joining two Michelin Keys, the Green Key eco certificate, and the prestigious Forbes Five-Star rating.

Southwest Airlines Brings Starlink Ultra-Fast WiFi Onboard

Southwest Airlines Brings Starlink Ultra-Fast WiFi Onboard

Southwest Airlines Co. is taking inflight connectivity to new heights with Starlink. Engineered by SpaceX, Starlink will deliver next-generation WiFi across Southwest’s network of 11 countries, allowing Customers to stream, share, and scroll in the sky at lightning-fast speeds. “Free WiFi has been a huge hit with our Rapid Rewards Members, and we know our Customers expect seamless connectivity across all their devices when they travel,” said Tony Roach, Executive Vice President, Chief Customer & Brand Officer at Southwest Airlines.

Central Holidays Debuts Inspiring New Line of Travel Programs to Morocco

Central Holidays Debuts Inspiring New Line of Travel Programs to Morocco

Building on its legacy of designing deeply immersive, destination-driven travel experiences around the world, Central Holidays proudly announces the launch of its new collection of travel programs to Morocco. The company is thrilled to introduce its vibrant portfolio of handcrafted journeys that invite travelers to discover the country’s rich tapestry of culture, history, landscapes, and flavors.

United Airlines Selects GE Aerospace GEnx Engines to Power New 787 Dreamliners

United Airlines Selects GE Aerospace GEnx Engines to Power New 787 Dreamliners

E Aerospace announced yesterday that United Airlines has selected 300 GEnx engines to power their new Boeing 787 Dreamliners. The agreement also includes additional spare engines and brings United Airlines’ 787 fleet to more than 200 GEnx powered aircraft. Mohamed Ali, President & CEO, GE Aerospace Commercial Engines & Services, said, “GE Aerospace has an enduring relationship with United that spans decades. This deal will make United the largest GEnx operator in the world, and we’re honored they continue to choose us to power their success.”