Philippine Airlines Focuses on European Cities

Philippine Airlines is continuing the search for its next destination in Europe. The national flag carrier has short listed the number of potential European destinations down to four with Paris, Rome, Hamburg, and Amsterdam identified as possible contenders.  Image Source: Airbus Philippine Airlines currently serves only one destination in Europe, which is London's Heathrow Airport. According to PAL President Jaime Bautista, the carrier is studying possible destinations in Europe in anticipation of the arrival of the Airbus A350 aircraft. "We will be able to fly to new destinations in Europe when we take delivery of our Airbus 350, which will be in 2018," said Bautista. "But as early as now, we are already conducting a study on which of the destinations in Europe we'll fly to." Bautista identified the four European cities on the sidelines of a press conference to announce the launch of flights to Philippine Airlines' 44th international destination: Saipan. The national flag carrier will begin twice weekly flights to its latest destination beginning on June 15.  Although Spain was not included in the short list of European destinations, a Spanish website is reporting that Philippine Airlines has opted to fly to Barcelona, rather than Madrid if it decides to launch flights to Spain.  According to the website, Philippine Airlines plans to take advantage of the growing traffic between Manila and Barcelona with the aim of launching non-stop flights by 2018. Industry insiders in Spain indicate that PAL's studies reveal that there is more traffic between Manila and Barcelona, compared to Manila and Madrid.  However, the studies also reveal that the current volume of traffic between Manila and Spain does not make a route feasible at the present time. But if the current growth trend on the route persists into the future, the airline could reach a break-even point within a few years.  Meanwhile, Philippine Airlines recently finalized the purchase of  six A350-900 aircraft from Airbus in France after signing a memorandum of understanding to acquire the aircraft earlier this year. PAL also holds an option to acquire an additional six aircraft. The carrier intends to operate the aircraft on non-stop flights to the United States and new destinations in Europe.  The Airbus A350 will become the new flagship of Philippine Airlines' long-haul fleet. The aircraft, which will be configured in a spacious three-class layout will carry more than 300 passengers, while providing a 25 percent reduction in fuel consumption. The aircraft is also expected to lower maintenance costs considerably.  "We are pleased to finalize this important order and are now defining the final layout for the aircraft," said Bautista. "With the A350, we will introduce a whole new level of comfort for long haul flights, with more personal space in all classes, a quieter cabin and the very latest on-board amenities. At the same time, we will benefit from the A350's enhanced efficiency and ability to fly non-stop on even our longest sector from New York to Manila, all year round." The first Airbus A350 aircraft is scheduled for delivery to Philippine Airlines in 2018. Email This BlogThis! Share to Twitter Share to Facebook
Source: Philippine Airlines Focuses on European Cities

Bulgaria Ranks among Top Software Outsourcing Destinations, Studies Show

Two recent studies point to Eastern Europe and Bulgaria in particular as an increasingly attractive destination for companies looking to outsource software, according to an article posted on ZDnet website.

Five of the top 20 countries listed as attractive software outsourcing destinations on A.T. Kearney 2016 Global Services Location Index are in Eastern Europe. A total of 55 countries are ranked in the study according to labour costs, skills and availability of workforce, and business environment.

Even though labour costs in Eastern Europe are not as low as those in China or India, which are the two top destinations for outsourcing software, the region "can argue that it provides better product quality, a proximity to Western Europe, cultural affinity, a better business environment, and high-level skills," the article on ZDNet reads, citing data from the AT Kearney study.

ZDnet is a business technology news website published by CBS Interactive.

Based on labour costs alone, Bulgaria is ranked 12th in the study, behind Poland (10th) and ahead of Romania, (13th), Russia (17th) and Latvia (18th).

Another study, Tholons 2016 Top 100 Outsourcing Destinations, has ranked Bulgarian capital Sofia among the cities in Eastern Europe which are considered attractive for outsourcing software, according to ZDNet.

Sofia is 52nd, one position behind Tallinn and ahead of Ljubljana(54th) and Belgrade (95th). Romania's capital Bucharest is ranked 41st. The Eastern European country with most entries in the city  ranking is Poland, with Krakow in 9th position, Warsaw in 25th, and Wroclaw 58th.

A.T. Kearney principal Johan Gott has listed before ZDNet several advantages, which Eastern Europe has, compared with more traditional outsourcing destinations. These advantages include much more benignbusiness environment than in India, the length of experience of Eastern European staff, the quality of their work, high-quality higher education systems as well as availability of professionals who speak English, French, and German. 

You can read the whole article "Software outsourcing to Eastern Europe: Which countries work best?" here.

Source: Bulgaria Ranks among Top Software Outsourcing Destinations, Studies Show

Tesla Makes Full-Court Press With Destination Charging

Cars

Published on April 29th, 2016 | by Kyle Field

April 29th, 2016 by Kyle Field 

With Model 3 on the horizon, Tesla is gently reshaping the way it talks about its public charging network. In the Model 3 unveiling event, Elon Musk mentioned that Tesla would be doubling the size of the current Supercharging network but quadrupling (4X!) the size of the Destination Charging program.

It may not have been a red flag to everyone listening in, but it is a huge statement about how Tesla is thinking about the Tesla public charging network in light of the insane volumes of Model 3s that will be on roads around the world in just a few years time.

Image courtesy Tesla Motors

To reflect this shift in a more intentional manner, Tesla swapped out "Supercharging" in the header of its website for "Charging." It still maps to the Supercharger page, but on that page, Destination Charing takes a more prominent position, with a direct link in the header and a refreshed landing page for Destination Charging.

Screen capture from TeslaMotors.com

Supercharging vs Destination Charging

As Destination Charging is newer on the scene and the differences between it and Supercharging may not be clear to everyone, here's a quick rundown of the big differences between the programs.

With Superchargers, Tesla pays for everything other than the land itself. That includes the purchase and installation of the Superchargers as well as the ongoing electricity fees, which can be significant, as charging EVs at high speeds can very quickly put the Supercharging station into higher usage tiers, incurring demand charges that add up quickly. Charging throughput can peak out around 175 amps. Imagine the usage spike from 10 Teslas pulling 100+ amps each:

Image Credit: Kyle Field, CleanTechnica

Destination Charging is a network of chargers that Tesla pays for (the hardware) that are then installed and owned by the property owner. The property owner is then responsible for defining the terms and conditions for use of the chargers — for example, customers only, residents only, my wife — and for supplying the power. This is great for Tesla because the upfront cost of the hardware is relatively cheap, and the company gets to add another location to the ever-growing list of destination chargers in cars and online.

It's also great for property owners, as they get added to an exclusive list of sites offering Tesla charging and can advertise Tesla charging as a service. On the flipside, they have to buck up the cash for the install and, obviously, ongoing usage charges for power. This seems like a no-brainer for most hotels, as the electricity used would likely be minimal relative to the number of new clients pulled in by the additional service of onsite charging.

I used this service during a recent trip down to Anaheim, staying where I did specifically due to the onsite charging. Charging speeds for Destination Chargers is typically from 30–50 amps, with 100 amp chargers being rare, as the extra capacity only really helps owners with the dual charger option.

A Push for Destination Charging

Given the much lighter upfront investment and absence of ongoing costs for Destination Charging to Tesla … other than running the website … it seems obvious that Tesla would make a larger effort to promote Destination Charging, and that's exactly what we're seeing now.

In support of the increases in public charging that will be required and committed over the next 2 years, Tesla is also looking across the pond and has now launched the Destination Charging program in Europe. This launch brings the value of this distributed, more granular network to all of the dedicated masses in Europe and offers a way for property owners in Europe to get in on the action by requesting and installing chargers on their property to support the rEVolution.

Tesla has also made visible changes in support of the effort to more intentionally promote Destination Charging, which we can see on the website. As Destination Charging is a "pull" program, Tesla has improved the visibility of the "request a charger" section of the page in support of the new push for Destination Charging.

Screen capture from TeslaMotors.com

Property owners in the US and Europe can now request a destination charger from the main Destination Charging page, down near the bottom. Whether it's to selflessly promote EVs or to selfishly get on Tesla's charging map early and get some free charging gear, it's a great way to get a bit more familiar with EV culture and maybe even get to know a few EV drivers in the process. 🙂  Get CleanTechnica's 1st (completely free) electric car report → "Electric Cars: What Early Adopters & First Followers Want." Keep up to date with all the hottest cleantech news by subscribing to our (free) cleantech newsletter, or keep an eye on sector-specific news by getting our (also free) solar energy newsletter, electric vehicle newsletter, or wind energy newsletter. 

Tags: EV charging, EV fast charging network, supercharging, Tesla destination chargers, Tesla Motors, Tesla Supercharging

About the Author

Kyle Field I'm a tech geek passionately in search of actionable ways to reduce the negative impact my life has on the planet, save money and reduce stress. Live intentionally, make conscious decisions, love more, act responsibly, play. The more you know, the less you need.

Source: Tesla Makes Full-Court Press With Destination Charging

5 International Destinations You Can Visit for $50 a Day

If you think you can't explore breathtaking and exotic places on a budget, think again. Here are five beautiful destinations where you can travel and experience culture for less than $50 a day.

1. Thailand

Budget for a solo traveler: $50 / day

Budget for a couple: $65 / day

Average budget private room cost: $25 / night

Cost of a meal in a restaurant: $5

Round trip flight from New York to Bangkok in high season: $640+

A long time budget traveler's favorite, Thailand can give you more bang for your buck than almost anywhere else on earth. Here you can explore Buddhist temples, swim in impossibly clear water, lay on white sand beaches, and sample some of the world's best cuisine. The people are always smiling and the weather is always hot and balmy.

There are good value flights from the U.S. and when you're in Thailand, everything is affordable. You can get rooms here for as little as $10 per night, but for a nice, clean, and comfortable stay, $25 will be more than enough. If you stay in Thailand for two weeks, it will likely cost you less than one week at an all-inclusive resort in Mexico.

2. Indonesia

Budget for a solo traveler: $45 / day

Budget for a couple: $60 / day

Average budget private room cost: $20 / night

Cost of a meal in a restaurant: $5

Round trip flight from New York to Bali in high season: $820+

Indonesia offers travelers even better value than Thailand in most cases, and fewer travelers make their way to this jungle clad, volcano-carved archipelago. Land in Bali and explore the beaches, temples, and surf spots that made this island famous. Then head out to some of the lesser visited islands like Lombok and Sumatra.

Domestic flights in Indonesia are very cheap and you can also take local ferries between many of the islands. Consider a trip to Komodo Island where you can share the rugged landscape with real, live prehistoric dragons.

Flights to Bali will take a long time from the U.S., so it's best to plan to visit Indonesia for two weeks or more if possible. A two-week trip here, including flights, won't likely cost a solo traveler more than $1,500! That's still less than many one week, all-inclusive holidays.

3. Bulgaria

Budget for solo traveler: $50 / day

Budget for a couple: $65 / day

Average budget private room cost: $25 / night

Cost of a meal in a restaurant: $5

Round trip flight from New York to Sofia in high season: $1,100+

Not all European destinations will cost you a fortune, especially now that the U.S. dollar is so strong. Bulgaria is one of the best-value-for-money countries in all of Europe and the people here are extremely hospitable.

You can take tours to some of the region's oldest wineries, explore ancient Roman ruins, and wander around fascinating Ottoman-era towns. There are even beautiful beach holiday hot spots along the Black Sea coast in towns like Varna and Burgas.

A two-week holiday here including flights, traveling around to different towns, and exploring much of the countryside will only cost you around $1,800.

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4. Mexico

Budget for solo traveler: $50 / day

Budget for a couple: $70 / day

Average budget private room cost: $30 / night

Cost of a meal in a restaurant: $6

Round trip flight from New York to Cancun in high season: $410+

Before your mind automatically starts daydreaming about cocktails on the beach in an all-inclusive resort in Cancun, consider traveling this fascinating country for its culture. Mexico is one of the most underrated independent travel destinations simply because so many North Americans are hypnotized by posh resorts and free booze.

Mexico has so much more to offer than beaches and cocktails. By traveling independently here, you'll be able to sample some of the world's most complex cuisine, explore ancient Mayan ruins, discover Spanish colonial towns, and learn how to salsa dance.

The best part is that Mexico is actually one of the best-value countries for travelers in all of the Americas. A return flight from the U.S. probably won't cost you more than $500 in the high season and you don't have to worry about jet-lag.

Give Mexico a try. Steer away from the resorts and immerse yourself in the culture instead. Most people who travel Mexico this way once never go back to all-inclusives again.

5. South Africa

Budget for solo traveler: $50 / day

Budget for a couple: $70 / day

Average budget private room cost: $30 / night

Cost of a meal in a restaurant: $7

Round trip flight from New York to Cape Town in high season: $1,200+

The Rand (ZAR) has recently taken a huge dive, meaning that travel to South Africa is cheaper now than it has been in over a decade. You'll have to be on a pretty tight budget to keep it under $50 per day, but it's definitely doable, even with the occasional wildlife safari.

Even though it's possible to get by on $50 per day, I highly recommend upping your budget by $20 per day to allow room for a rental car. There's no better way to see South Africa than in your own private vehicle.

Pick Your Place

I've only listed five places where it's possible to travel on $50 a day or less, but there are many others. In this article we've visited four of the world's continents and even with the long journeys, most of these destinations will cost you less than your average resort holiday.

Have you traveled to any of these frugal destinations?

Disclaimer: The links and mentions on this site may be affiliate links. But they do not affect the actual opinions and recommendations of the authors.

Wise Bread is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com.

Source: 5 International Destinations You Can Visit for $50 a Day

One Nation in Europe Wants Refugees But Is Failing to Get Enough

Portugal has offered to host 10,000 of the refugees who've landed on Europe's shores from the globe's war-torn zones. So far, it has taken in 234.

Not because it doesn't want to. Rather, because few have come knocking at its door.

"It's difficult to quickly find refugees that can come to Portugal," President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa said on Friday, according to news agency Lusa, as he met migrants in Evora, southern Portugal.

As the refugee crisis stretches the struggling Greek government and rattles politics in Germany and beyond, Portugal's willingness to share the burden isn't getting a lot of attention. While the country blames a lack of coordination in Europe and administrative roadblocks, the contrast between its economic performance and that of Germany, which admitted more than 1 million migrants in 2015 alone, may also be playing a role.

Although the Portuguese economy recovered in 2014 and accelerated last year after shrinking for three years through 2013, joblessness remains high. Unemployment, which has eased to 12.3 percent after peaking at 17.5 percent in 2013, is still almost triple the German rate of 4.3 percent, and that may continue to dent Portugal's allure.

"It's not a very appealing destination given the unemployment rate," said Rui Serra, chief economist at Caixa Economica Montepio Geral in Lisbon. "It's easier for an immigrant to go to the center of Europe where there is a more concentrated market than in some countries of the periphery like Portugal. In the center of Europe income per capita is higher."

Welcome Mat

Prime Minister Antonio Costa says there are structural problems in the euro zone that aggravate the disparities.

"That structural problem has to do with the asymmetry between the different economies," he said in Athens on April 11. "It's necessary to give a new impulse to the convergence of our economies with the more developed economies of the euro zone."

With the country's demographics in mind, the Portuguese government has laid out the welcome mat for refugees. Portugal's population has declined and aged every year from the end of 2011 to about 10.37 million at the end of 2014 as a weak economy has led many working-age residents to leave. Germany's population, while also aging, still increased overall every year in the same period.

Emigration Rises

Far from attracting migrants, Portugal has had trouble convincing its own people to stay put. Starting in 2011, the number of emigrants exceeded the number of immigrants in Portugal every year through 2014, according to the country's statistics institute.

Between 2009 and 2014, the proportion of young people -- 0 to 14 years of age -- decreased to 14.4 percent from 15.3 percent, and the working-age population -- 15 to 64 years of age -- fell to 65.3 percent from 66.4 percent.

Portugal has pointed to other reasons for its lack of appeal to refugees, including poor coordination in the EU and the scale of the crisis, with more than 1 million people flooding into the region through Greece just last year from countries including Syria, Afghanistan and parts for Africa.

"Portugal, unlike other European countries, never had a large Syrian, Afghan or Eritrean community, which may explain the fact that people awaiting relocation don't name our country as the first priority," Eduardo Cabrita, a minister overseeing the effort, said in an e-mailed response to questions. Cabrita went to an airport in Lisbon to welcome refugees arriving from Greece on March 7.

It's not just in Portugal that the planned relocation of refugees is falling short. Governments have made "unsatisfactory" progress following last year's promise to share between them 160,000 migrants who have arrived in Greece and Italy, the European Commission said in a report published on April 12.

Taking Aspirin

"The delay in the relocation program is owed to bureaucratic and logistic difficulties in the registration process," said Rui Marques, who heads the Platform to Support Refugees, which groups public authorities and private groups and companies. "There are also mechanisms of family regrouping that channel candidates to countries in which they may have relatives, and it's more probable that they have relatives in Germany or Sweden than in Portugal."

For Prime Minister Costa, meanwhile, the refugee issue needs to be set in the larger context of the region's economic disparities.

While the European Central Bank's debt purchase program has been beneficial in reducing interest rates, "in some countries more than in others," that doesn't mean that the differences between euro region economies have been addressed, he said.

"It's as if someone who is ill and thinks that by taking an aspirin and lowering the fever, the illness has been cured," Costa said. "No: the fever has dropped but the illness is there. We have to treat the illness and the illness is called the enormous asymmetry that exists in our economies."

Source: One Nation in Europe Wants Refugees But Is Failing to Get Enough

Europe migrant crisis: Italy to start fingerprinting of migrants in a bid to cool tensions with EU

Rome: Italy is to introduce the fingerprinting of migrants crossing the Mediterranean as soon as they are picked up by rescue boats, officials say.

The move could help to reduce mounting tensions between Italy and its EU partners over the large numbers of migrants who arrive in Italy but are not registered here and then travel on to northern Europe.

If they are not registered in Italy, neighbouring countries like Austria and France and popular destination states like Germany and Sweden do not have the option of sending them back to Italy.

Representational image. Reuters

In theory, they should be able to do this under the EU's Dublin convention rules governing asylum claims.

The Italian move follows talks on Wednesday between Interior Minister Angelo Alfano and EU migration commissioner Dimitris Avramopoulos in Sicily, where most migrants arrive and are processed at "hotspot" reception centres.

"With this we will now have hotspots at sea," Alfano said.

It was not clear if the policy will be applied systematically -- migrants picked up at sea are often in a traumatised state and asylum seekers from Eritrea notably generally refuse to have their prints taken because they want to make their applications elsewhere.

Italy was warned last year by the European Commission that it must make its registration procedures more efficient. But Italian officials say the country cannot cope alone with the migrant influx.

More than 350,000 people from all over the world have reached Italy on boats from Libya since the start of 2014, as Europe battles its biggest migration crisis since World War II.

Alfano said that after problems in 2014, the process of identifying migrants was now working "100 percent".

With Austria on the verge of introducing anti-migrant checks at its border with Italy in the Alps, there is mounting concern in Rome that the country's overcrowded reception facilities could soon have to deal with tens of thousands of additional asylum seekers.

Italian Prime Minister Matteo Renzi warned Austria not to go ahead with the border closure. "It would be a flagrant breach of European rules, as well as being against history, against logic and against the future."

The tensions have given added urgency to attempts to find a lasting solution to the crisis and Italy is pushing a plan to introduce NATO naval patrols off Libya in time for the peak summer season for people smuggling.

Modelled on an existing NATO operation in waters between Turkey and Greece, the plan has been backed by US President Barack Obama and is expected to be approved by alliance leaders at a summit in Warsaw in July.

Italy has also proposed offering an EU-funded scheme to offer African countries cash to cooperate with the fast-track repatriation of migrants deemed to have no claim to asylum in Europe.

Source: Europe migrant crisis: Italy to start fingerprinting of migrants in a bid to cool tensions with EU

Recharge Wrap-up: Tesla adds 150 destination chargers in Europe; True Zero H2 in CA

CHARGE JOIN FORCES WITH FORMULA E AS OFFICIAL ELECTRIC TRUCK PARTNER

Charge to supply electric trucks for the FIA Formula E Championship

LONDON, UK (April 26 2016) - Formula E today announced that Charge, the British-based automotive technology company and maker of smart electric trucks, are to become the Official Electric Truck Partner of the FIA Formula E Championship.

The agreement will see Charge supply electric trucks at Formula E events in flagship cities around the world. The trucks will be used for the driver parade and for logistics both on and off the track.

Significantly, the first Charge truck to be unveiled at the Visa Paris ePrix was in partnership with DHL, the championship's Official Logistics Partner.

Formula E CEO Alejandro Agag, commented: "We are thrilled to have Charge on board as our Official Electric Truck Partner. Our partnership makes sense on every level. They are an incredibly innovative company - the way they are approaching the e lectric truck and bus market with software that improves the hardware is very intelligent and it means our entire series, from the cars to the trucks, is completely electric and that's a powerful message for change. I'm sure Charge will be the future of trucks and buses and we look forward to helping them grow."

Denis Sverdlov, CEO of Charge, said: "We are proud to partner with Formula E, everything they are doing is aligned with our company mission and values. The truck and bus industry has stood still for many years, we are creating a highly efficient, affordable, environmentally superlative truck offering that we believe will transform major cities around the world. This partnership allows us to work closely with leading logistics companies like DHL where we can showcase our technology and the opportunity for every logistics company to revolutionise their fleets, resulting in huge savings to their businesses and improving their social and environmental impact. We believe th e balance of our cost efficiency, unique hardware and software capabilities make our trucks unbeatable."

Sabrina Asendorf, Global Sponsorship Manager at DHL, said: "We are proud to be one of Formula E's Founding Partners, jointly pioneering solutions for future mobility and minimising the impact of transport on the environment and cities. Having Charge as the Official Electric Truck Partner is a great addition to the championship and we see huge potential in the contribution they can make to advancing technology for commercial usage and the way we envisage the future of logistics."

Charge is re-defining the way trucks should be made with a fully integrated software solution that enables the hardware to be instantly upgraded with every aspect of the vehicle connected.

Charge is based in Oxfordshire surrounded by the most advanced automotive technology companies. Charge aims to create hundreds of jobs in the UK and will continue to grow as the company scales its prod uction significantly over the coming months.

Source: Recharge Wrap-up: Tesla adds 150 destination chargers in Europe; True Zero H2 in CA

World's Most Exotic Tourism Destination? Chernobyl

Published April 26, 2016

Thirty years after the 1986 Chernobyl explosion, that threatened much of Europe with a radioactive cloud, the site of the nuclear disaster has become a popular tourism attraction, especially for foreigners. VOA's Oksana Lihostova and Ruslan Deynychenko visited the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone recently to find out why people want to visit the site. Molly McKitterick narrates their report.

Source: World's Most Exotic Tourism Destination? Chernobyl

A Surpising 7 Eastern European Vacation Destinations

If Paris has lost some of its shimmer for you, then how about giving one of the lesser known eastern European cities a whirl? Here's a surprisingly entertaining and eventful seven you may not have thought of for your 2016 European getaway. Best of all, these unsung gems are some of the most cost effective city breaks you'll find anywhere. Welcome to Eastern Europe.

Zamość, Poland (Public Domain)

Zamość, Poland

Close to the Ukrainian border, on the far Eastern corner of Poland, rests among the most unusual architectural hubs in Europe. The city of Zamość shows off an ornate Italian Renaissance square – the city was constructed and designed by architect an architect from Padua, Bernando Mornado, who founded most of his styles on Italian ideals of what a perfect city should have and look life. This would enlighten us as to why Zamość resembles Florence or Genoa of northern Italy. Zamość is a UNESCO World Heritage listed old town, a visit here would definitely provide you with intrigue to study the outstanding architecture, and many colourful buildings. A city full of history, and much to tell the western and outside world, a visit here would tell you about Zamość, but much about Poland as well. 

Loket, Czech Republic (Pakos – Creative Commons)

Loket, Czech Republic

Situated on the banks of the Ohře River, Loket is a sleepy, yet photogenic, town that allows for the best little trip outside of Prague – it is nearly four hours by train, and about 3 per car, it is just as beautiful as Prague, yet has none of the huge crowds of bustling people. Centered around a 14th century castle,  accompanied by a city gate tower along with a bookbinding museum, the city is chock full of history and many places to see. It is also worth stopping by just for a cuppa – the city is renowned for its porcelain, which is recognized as an authentic Czech souvenir, to impress your friends or family, when you return home from your journeys.

Ljubljana, Slovenia (neiljs – Creative Commons)

Ljubljana, Slovenia

The Slovenian city has all of the great European architecture: ornate medieval architectural gems, while Art Nouveau is scattered across the city and  socialist-era style graces the façades of the buildings, of which belong to the city's center. Indeed, the Slovenian architect taking credit for most of what you must  see in Ljubljana is Joze Plecnik,  who worked in Prague in his later years, one could say Ljubljana is the original Prague. There's no doubting now that this is a beautiful  destination on your travels,  with a bustling student community and chic riverside café culture.  For the cake connoisseurs out there, you must see the Cajunica Gallus on the Ljubljanica River, for iced fruit teas and slices of heavenly chocolate cake.

Osijek Cathedral

Osijek, Croatia

Getting away from Croatia's sparkling array of renown coastal cities, and dive deep inland across the Pannonian Plains. Here Osijek waits for you travelers, on the Drava River, where you will find a fine collection of architecture to enjoy, as well as Europe's first tram system ever made. The recently reinvigorated Tvrđa fortress  is a must see, yetfor a less adventurous afternoon, take to the riverside paths and stroll along the banks of the river, stopping by chic cafés and withheld bars for a taste of  Osječko beer, and the scrumptious paprika laden fish soup, fiš paprikaš. Among the best spots in town is the friendly Restoran Kompa, where you will find great Croatian classics with a view overlooking the river.

Klaipėda Port at dusk (cc 2.0)

Klaipeda, Lithuania

This Baltic port is a neat place with a charming  historical centre, blessed with bountiful museums, reinvented streets and a score of venues for tasting and experiencing the hearty local food and ales. For a fun and free afternoon with the kids, take them for an adventure, spotting  small sculptures of animals, dragons, and ghouls which are spread out around the city's old town. If you have planned a trip during the summer, then this pick has a few beaches for you to choose from, the most stunning being Smiltynė, a UNESCO World Heritage listed stretch of land. Wish to adventure further? Take the ferry across the waters to the insanely beautiful Neringa and the Curonian Spit, an island that offers some of the most wonderful sand dunes in Europe.

Tartu, Estonia

Tartu, Estonia

Whilst gangs of party animals continue to trip up to Estonia's capital Tallinn, the University city of Tartu enjoys a more reserved pace of living, undisturbed by too many tourists. Tartu is thought of by the Estonians to be the intellectual and cultural hub by being the oldest city in Estonia, as it was founded in 1030. The old town's historic buildings are still  used by the university, while students enjoy the cafes, bars and restaurants in the area. Vein ja Vine is a popular choice amongst tourists, and Tartu's locals looking for exquisite wines and tasty Italian antipasti. There are plenty of places to explore too, including the university's botanic garden, Barclay Park and Toome Hill – which also belongs to the University, it was given to the University by Emperor Paul I.  So pack some comfortable hiking shoes.

Kotor, Montenegro

Kotor, Montenegro

The 'New Croatia', or Montenegro for some, is beginning to make its impression on the tourist map of Europe, comparing with Dubrovnik further up the road: both are fortified cities stalemated between mountain and sea, upon which historic city centers lie churches and cobblestones. The simplest way to get here is to fly in to Tivat airport, 8km away from the center, and hire a cab, or rent a car. The city, and Bay of Kotor deserve their place on UNESCO's World Heritage list. But you must be warned, it is fairly easy to get lost walking in this medieval city, it purposefully constructed like a maze to confuse invaders to protect it from attack.A small tip for the traveller: watch out for the city's main landmarks, like St. Tryphon's Cathedral and St. Nicolas Church, these will guide you through the streets of Montenegro.

Source: A Surpising 7 Eastern European Vacation Destinations

Routes Europe to head to Belfast in 2017

The Northern Irish city will take on hosting duties for Routes Europe 2017. Hosted by Invest NI and Discover Belfast, they will show what the city has to offer as not only host, but as a destination.

The Northern Irish city of Belfast will take on hosting duties for Routes Europe 2017. Hosted by Invest NI and Discover Belfast, they will show what the city has to offer as not only host, but as a destination. The official handover ceremony will take place later today (April 26, 2016). The event will be held in Belfast's Waterfront in April 2017. This venue is Northern Ireland's only purpose-built conference centre.

The ceremony will see Mr Radoslaw Wloszek, acting president of Kraków Airport present the Routes Trophy to Ms Suzanne Wylie, chief executive officer of Belfast City Council – thus officially handing over hosting duties to Belfast.

Belfast is the largest and capital city of Northern Ireland, home to two airports which help to make the city one of the most visited weekend destination in Europe. It is steeped in history, with the iconic Harland and Wolff cranes serving as a reminder of the shipyard that built the Titanic.

Combined, George Best Belfast City Airport and Belfast International Airport welcomed 7,085,501 passengers in 2015. Both are experiencing considerable growth in the early months of this calendar year, and should expect more of the same following the announcement of the Air Route Development Fund. This fund will see up to £4 million being made available over the course of the next three years to support the development of new air routes for Northern Ireland; sure to be a hot topic at next year's Routes Europe event.

Highlighting the Air Route Development Fund, Northern Ireland's Enterprise, Trade and Investment Minister, Jonathan Bell said: "I believe Northern Ireland would benefit economically from greater connectivity to a range of un-served short haul destinations within Europe, as well as greater long haul connectivity to Canada and the Middle East."

In recent years, Belfast has revamped key areas of the city, including the Victoria Square shopping outlet and the venue for Routes Europe 2017, Waterfront Conference Centre. The centre was been transformed thanks to a £30 million extension, and will be opened in summer 2016.

This is the first time the event will be hosted in Northern Ireland, home to less than two million people. The city of Belfast has become a huge tourist destination over the last decade, which is now home to HBO's Game of Thrones. At the handover ceremony, Belfast gave a glimpse into what the city, and Northern Ireland as a whole, has to offer – ranging from world famous golf courses to a buzzing nightlife, and everything in between.

A lunch will be provided to show delegates some of the traditional Northern Irish cuisine that can be enjoyed at the next event, including wheaten bread and yellow man. In terms of entertainment, traditional Irish dancers will perform on stage.

Speaking to Routesonline yesterday during the air service development forum, Wylie said: "On behalf of my wonderful home city of Belfast, I'm very proud to officially accept hosting responsibility for next year's Routes Europe Conference,

"Belfast today is full of ambition, optimism and above all energy. A great city, held back for too long, now looking forward and outward. We are renowned for our warmth, our friendliness and our sense of fun, so there is no better place to meet, do business and enjoy the 'craic'! Team Belfast looks forward to welcoming you next April," she added.

Register for Routes Europe in Kraków, Poland, 23 - 26 April 2016

Source: Routes Europe to head to Belfast in 2017

Spain voted top Erasmus destination - and here’s why

A young woman jumps in front of a fountain in Seville, voted one of the top places to study abroad. Photo: Cristina Quicler/AFP.

Three of the top ten places to spend Erasmus are in Spain, according to a new ranking, with Madrid at number one. What makes Spain such an awesome place to study? The Local explains.

Madrid was voted the best place in Europe to study abroad by Erasmus students from all over the world in Uniplaces' poll released last week.

Each city was judged for its nightlife, culture, cost of living and more.

In total, three Spanish cities made it into the top ten, with Seville at fifth place and Barcelona at Seventh. This made Spain the country with the most top-rated study abroad destinations.

The cities were also ranked for their cost of living, nightlife, culture, and more. Madrid was deemed relatively cheap, with a good nightlife and quality of life.

But why else might someone consider studying abroad in Spain?

Well, here are our reasons:

1. It's cheap

Revellers dance at a music festival in Castellon. Photo: Jose Jordan/AFP.

First things first, Spain is still in recovery from the recession which blighted southern Europe, but there is a bright side.  Food and drink can be ridiculously cheap. Your day to day life of buying fruit and veg and going out with your friends to have a copa or caña will be substantially cheaper than what you're used to - so do your part in helping the Spanish economy and take that wad of newly exchanged euros to the nearest tapas bar.  

2. You can learn in English

Plenty of university courses are offered in both English and Spanish, so don't worry if you're not coming from a languages programme. On the other hand, learning the local language is always a plus and Spain has fantastic language exchange networks, meaning that there are possibilities to meet like-minded Spaniards after native English speakers every night. If you don't decide to take a Spanish course whilst at your university, classes in local academies can be refreshing alternatives that often include social nights like bar-crawls and sight-seeing.

3. Lots to explore

A tourist looks at the Puente Nuevo (New Bridge) in Ronda. Photo: Jorge Guerrero / AFP.

The formidable size of the Iberian peninsula - at 505,990 km2, it's the second largest country in the European Union - means that you'll never be bored in Spain. It is home to a range of different climates and regions all with their own unique personalities; compare the green mountains of Galicia to the arid plains of Andalucía. Take advantage of Spain's cheap transport fairs as well as coach company ALSA with which you can collect points and lessen the cost of travel each time you go.  

4. Earn extra cash

Still worried you'd be strapped for cash? As a native English speaker, your teaching potential is worth its weight in gold. With the current job climate, many Spaniards are taking the incentive to learn English to boost their employment prospects. It might be worth getting a TEFL certificate because it means you can charge more, and these courses can be done online or at a centre in the UK or Spain.

5. Lots and lots of saints

People celebrate St. Bartholomew's Day in Tenerife. Photo: Desiree Martin/AFP.

Whilst the majority of the Spanish public no longer regularly practice Catholicism, the faith shows no signs of dwindling when it comes to ferias and fiestas, and you'll have plenty of days off because of them. Saints' days are major affairs in Spain - as much as Easter and Christmas - and they often come with their own unique foods, music and, of course, reckless hedonism. During the day, saints are taken for a walk in elaborate processions followed by crazy partying until well into the night.

6. Outdoor binge drinking

Photo: Pedro Armestre/AFP.

Spain is home of the botellón, a practice which sees young people gather in parks or squares to drink and smoke. Grannies pass through with their trolleys to sell you beer and at massive occasions like Gay Pride, the botellón spills out into the streets and the police simply turn a blind eye.  

7. Free museums

Pablo Picasso's Guernica in the Reina Sofia Museum of Madrid. Photo: Pedro Armestre/AFP.

Spain's track record for artistic output is often outshone by that of Italy and France. However, its art houses and museums hold some of Europe's finest work and Spanish artists have been pioneers of European movements of realism, surrealism and cubism. Armed with your student card, you can see plenty of exhibitions for absolutely nothing, and if you're a real art lover then many museums often offer student rates for membership.

SEE ALSO: Spain's 10 top museums to visit

8. Long holidays

Girls perform ballet at the beach in San Sebastian. Photo: Ander Gillenea/AFP.

Spain's interior cities shut down for August as everybody flees the hellish heat to go to the beach. As an Erasmus student, by this point you'll have tonnes of friends with which you can roadtrip to the coast and revel in the summer fiestas. Travelling to cities not on the coast at this time is essentially sunstroke-suicide, so use Easter and Christmas holidays to do a bit more travelling in inner Spain - why not go skiing in the Pyrenees or the Sierra Nevada?

9. Spaniards

Two women celebrating during the annual San Fermin festival in Pamplona. Photo: Cesar Manso/AFP.

Last - but by no means least - you're going to acquire lots of Spanish friends and if you are lucky you might even achieve the ultimate Erasmus dream of a Spanish boyfriend / girlfriend. Nothing quite says 'cultural immersion' like falling in love with a Spaniard, meeting their parents and navigating the trials and tribulations of a Mediterranean relationship. Who knows - maybe they'll make you decide to stick around a bit more, and your Erasmus year in sun-kissed Spain will slowly turn into the rest of your life. Tempting, no?

List Compiled by Sophia Smith Galer

Source: Spain voted top Erasmus destination - and here's why

The Latest: Obama: Time not on side of US-Europe trade deal

HANNOVER, Germany - The Latest on President Barack Obama's visit to Germany (all times local):

7:30 p.m.

President Barack Obama says time isn't on the side of a proposed U.S.-Europe trade he wants to see completed soon.

Obama says if negotiations aren't completed by the end of the year then upcoming political transitions in the U.S. and Europe mean it won't be finished for some time.

American voters are in the process of choosing a successor for Obama; he leaves office in January. France and Germany have elections scheduled for next year.

Obama says he knows that "politics are hard" but he's urging the deal's supporters to "keep making our case" with facts and by dispelling misperceptions.

He says the "time is now" for the agreement.

Obama commented as he joined German Chancellor Angela Merkel in Hannover, Germany, to open a massive industrial technology trade show.

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7:20 p.m.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel says her country is prepared to increase its military commitments as demanded by allies such as the United States.

Speaking after a meeting with U.S. President Barack Obama on Sunday, Merkel is citing her country's contribution to the international coalition in Afghanistan, and the arms supply and training for Kurdish forces fighting the Islamic State group in Iraq.

Germany spent 35.5 billion euros ($39.98 billion) on defence last year, about 1.2 per cent of its gross domestic product. This will rise to 39.2 billion euros in 2020.

Merkel says "we know the goals that NATO is giving us. We are approaching them slowly."

Obama says he recognizes that Germany had become "more forward leaning" on security but is urging all NATO members to attain the 2 per cent GDP target.

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7:10 p.m.

There's high-tech trade, and then there's beer.

President Barack Obama is praising both in his remarks to help open the world's largest industrial technology trade fair in Germany.

The president has opened his address by noting that 2016 is the 500th anniversary of Germany's "beer purity law" that permits only certain ingredients. He adds that he just might want to join in that celebration.

Obama also is marveling at high-tech advances that have even produced a car created with a 3-D printer.

He is suggesting to German Chancellor Angela Merkel that they take it out for a drive, but he adds that he'll have to get permission from the Secret Service.

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6:25 p.m.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel (AHN'-geh-lah MEHR'-kuhl) insists that her proposal for safe zones in Syria is consistent with international efforts to bring peace to Syria.

Germany's allies, particularly the United States, have dismissed the idea of a ground-based military intervention in Syria to protect civilians.

Merkel met with President Barack Obama on Sunday, and said afterward that the proposal wouldn't require outside intervention.

Merkel says creating safe zones should be part of peace negotiations that involve the Syrian government and moderate opposition groups.

Obama says the idea of making safe zones controlled by moderate opposition part of the peace talks shows that "here there's no space between us."

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6:15 p.m.

President Barack Obama is applauding the German leader's handling of Europe's migrant crisis. He says Angela Merkel (AHN'-geh-lah MEHR'-kuhl) "is on the right side of history on this."

Obama says Merkel is "giving voice to the kinds of principles that bring people together rather than divide them." He says he's proud of Merkel for taking on some tough politics to express humanitarian and practical concerns.

Merkel has suffered politically at home since allowing thousands of people fleeing violence in Syria and other conflict zones to resettle in Germany. She's also supported their migration to other European countries, many of which have since tightened their borders.

Merkel recently helped Europe and Turkey negotiate a deal to help ease the migrant flow

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6 p.m.

President Barack Obama says the United States isn't taking seriously North Korea's latest statements about being ready to halt its nuclear tests if the U.S. would suspend its annual military exercises with South Korea.

Obama says that if North Korea wants to shows it's serious, then it would be prepared to enter negotiation to reduce tensions in the region.

North Korea's foreign minister made the offer in an Associated Press interview on Saturday.

But Obama says such a commitment isn't shown "based on a press release" and that the North is going to have to do better.

Obama spoke during a news conference in Germany.

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5:55 p.m.

President Barack Obama says he doesn't support creating "safe zones" in Syria. He says doing so would require a major military commitment.

Obama says he and his advisers have repeatedly reviewed proposals to create protected areas for refugees within Syria, but that the plans aren't workable.

Obama says "as a practical matter," such a step couldn't be done without using the military to "take over a big chunk" of Syria.

Chancellor Angela Merkel has endorsed the notion of creating areas that could provide safe haven for the thousands of migrants fleeing the violence and would improve access to humanitarian aid.

Merkel told reporters on Sunday that she considers the safe zones part of the ongoing negotiations over a deteriorating cease-fire and political transition.

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5:30 p.m.

President Barack Obama says "it is indisputable" that U.S. trade deals with other countries have strengthened the American economy.

He says trade makes U.S. businesses more competitive around the world.

Obama says he understands that people are feeling unsettled by globalization, particularly when they see factories closing and jobs moving to other countries.

But he says America has to stay competitive as regions in Asia and Africa begin to develop their economies.

Obama says if the U.S. isn't there and present, it will have problems.

The president has begun a two-day visit to Germany and is appearing at a news conference with German Chancellor Angela Merkel (AHN'-geh-lah MEHR'-kuhl).

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5:20 p.m.

President Barack Obama says the U.S. and European Union need to "keep moving forward" on negotiations for a U.S.-Europe trade deal.

He says German Chancellor Angela Merkel (AHN'-geh-lah MEHR'-kuhl) agrees with him.

Obama has begun a two-day visit to Germany. One aim is to build momentum for the deal. But opposition is strong in Europe, particularly in Germany.

Obama says the U.S. and Germany are among each other's largest trade partners. He says it's a relationship that they have to keep nurturing and building.

Obama and Merkel are speaking at a news conference in Hannover.

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3:25 p.m.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel has welcomed President Barack Obama with military honours ahead of their bilateral talks.

Merkel has received Obama at Herrenhausen Palace, a rebuilt version of the 19th-century summer home of the royal house of Hannover. The palace was destroyed during World War II and reopened in 2013.

Merkel and Obama are due to meet for an hour before holding a joint news conference.

Following the news conference, they will together open the city's annual industrial fair, at which the United States is the featured country this year.

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12:45 p.m.

President Barack Obama has arrived in Germany to mount a two-day push to sell his trans-Atlantic trade pact.

Obama landed in the northern city of Hannover on Sunday afternoon. He's leading a delegation of American business leaders attending the Hannover Messe, the world's largest industrial technology trade fair.

Obama is slated to meet with German Chancellor Angela Merkel before they attend the fair opening.

The president is expected to make the case for the Trans-Atlantic Trade and Investment Partnership, or T-TIP.

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11:10 a.m.

President Barack Obama says it could take a decade for Britain to negotiate a new trade agreement with the United States if it leaves the European Union.

In a BBC interview, Obama said "it could be five years from now, 10 years from now before we were able to actually get something done."

He said that "the U.K. would not be able to negotiate something with the United States faster than the EU."

Obama flies to Germany Sunday after a U.K. visit during which he angered supporters of an EU exit by making it clear the United States wants Britain to stay in.

He said Friday that Britain would go to the "back of the queue" for a trade deal if it votes to leave in a June 23 referendum.

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11:00 a.m.

Germany's vice chancellor is urging the United States to budge in negotiations on a free trade deal with Europe and warns that the hoped-for accord could fail if Washington doesn't give ground.

President Barack Obama is expected in Germany Sunday, hoping to build momentum for the so-called Trans-Atlantic Trade and Investment Partnership, or TTIP. The German government is also keen to clinch the deal.

However, Vice Chancellor and Economy Minister Sigmar Gabriel was quoted Sunday as telling the Handelsblatt newspaper that "the Americans want to stick to their 'buy American' idea. We can't accept that."

He also complained that the U.S. doesn't want to open public tenders to companies from Europe.

Gabriel said: "If the Americans stick to this position, we don't need a free trade agreement. Then TTIP will fail."

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08:46 a.m.

President Barack Obama is hoping to build momentum for a trade deal between the U.S. and Europe during a two-day visit to Germany.

But Obama knows a tough sell awaits him, particularly in Germany. He arrives there Sunday and opposition to the agreement is fierce.

Thousands swarmed the streets Saturday in Hannover, on the eve of Obama's arrival, to protest the agreement. In November, more than 100,000 protested the deal in Berlin.

Proponents argue that it would boost business at a time of global economic uncertainty. Critics fear the erosion of consumer protections and environmental standards.

Negotiators want to finalize key parts of the deal before the year ends.

Obama is also meeting with German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Sunday to discuss the Islamic State group and other issues.

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This story has been corrected to reflect that Obama says the trade deal won't be finished for some time if negotiations aren't completed by the end of the year, rather than if the negotiations are completed by the end of the year.

Source: The Latest: Obama: Time not on side of US-Europe trade deal

PAL sets sights on new European routes

PAL FLIES TO SAIPAN: Philippine Airlines is all set to fly to Saipan by June 15 this year to serve the needs of Filipino 'kababayans' who have long considered the flag carrier their 'airline of choice'. In photo during the press launch are (from left) PAL president and chief operating officer Jaime Bautista, PAL Express president, Boni Sam, MVA (Mananas) Visitor Authority board member Jerry Tan and senior adiviser for MVA in Philippines Jemy See. MIKE AMOROSO


MANILA, Philippines – Flag carrier Philippine Airlines (PAL) is studying four new destinations in Europe as part of its expansion plans. 

PAL president and COO Jaime Bautista told reporters the airline is in talks with a potential strategic partner to ensure continued growth.

PAL is looking at new destinations to serve in Europe as it awaits the delivery of its Airbus 350 acquired earlier this year for its long-haul flights. 

"We will be able to fly to new destinations in Europe when we take the delivery of our Airbus 350 which will be in 2018. But as early as now, we are already conducting a study on which of the destinations in Europe we'll fly to," he said.

PAL, which currently flies to London, is looking at Amsterdam in the Netherlands, Hamburg in Germany, Rome in Italy and Paris in France. 

For now, PAL is expanding its operations with the start of flight services to Saipan, its 44th international destination beginning June 15.

Business ( Article MRec ), pagematch: 1, sectionmatch: 1

PAL's service to Saipan will be available twice a week and utilize the Airbus A320.

PR 1571 will depart Manila every Wednesday and Sunday at 9:20 p.m., and arrive in Saipan at 3:35 a.m. local time.  PR 1572, meanwhile, will leave Saipan every Monday and Thursday at 4:35 a.m. and arrive in Manila at 6:45 a.m.

"The service is much awaited by our countrymen working in the island-territory in the Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas. With Filipinos comprising close to 36 percent or 22,000 of the population, the planned flights will provide them a convenient link to their home country," Bautista said. 

After Saipan, PAL is also set to begin taking advantage of fifth freedom rights on the Manila-Taipei-Osaka route by June.

Fifth freedom is the right to pick up passengers from a foreign country after flying from country of origin, and to bring them to another country or final destination.

Bautista said the Manila-Taipei-Osaka service would be offered daily.

PAL earlier complained it could not exercise its fifth freedom to pick up passengers from Dubai enroute to Kuwait after the Arab state disallowed it.

Last Jan. 17, the flag carrier launched a four-time weekly service (Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday) between Manila and Kuwait via Dubai, to serve the travel needs of Filipino workers in Kuwait using an Airbus A330.

PAL said there was more volume of Filipino passengers, especially OFWs, in Dubai rather than in Bangkok.

The Kuwaiti government prevented the flag carrier from exercising its right to avail of fifth freedom traffic rights, while Kuwait Airways had been freely availing of Fifth Freedom traffic rights between Bangkok and Manila for close to 20 years. – With Rudy Santos

Source: PAL sets sights on new European routes

Mark Murphy on Europe Travel Safety: 5 Destinations Trends That Defined the Week of Apr. 15-21

TravelPulse founder and CEO Mark Murphy recently appeared on FOX Business' "Cavuto Coast to Coast," to discuss the twin specters of Zika and terrorism, which have travelers thinking twice about booking a summer trip to Europe. Click to find out his perspectives.

Walt Disney World is expanding attractions devoted to three classic franchises at Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom. Visitors will be able to have a drink at the infamous "Star Wars" watering hole Mos Eisley Cantina, enjoy even more "Toy Story" rides, walk through the world of "Avatar" and much, much more. Click for details.

The summer tourism season has official commenced in Montreal with Tourisme Montreal's recent fair. New must-visits for tourists include the soon-to-be-open, amenity-laden William Gray boutique hotel in Old Montreal, and Au Sommet Place Ville Marie, a unique downtown observation space offering amazing vistas. Click to see what else is going on in Montreal.

After a long winter's nap, the Grand Canyon's north rim will be opening to tourists on May 15. Official National Park Service facilities will be welcoming visitors starting on that day, along with ranger-related programs and services. Quick travel tip: try the Grand Canyon Railway for a unique way to access the park. Click for more news about this iconic U.S. destination.

Pre-clearance operations will commence at the Dominican Republic paradise of Punta Cana by 2017, getting qualified visitors out of the airport and onto the beach much faster. Punta Cana will join Freeport, Bahamas; Nassau, Bahamas; L.F. Wade International Airport in St. George's, Bermuda; and Aruba in this U.S Customs and Border Protection-authorized group. Click for more on this development.

Source: Mark Murphy on Europe Travel Safety: 5 Destinations Trends That Defined the Week of Apr. 15-21

Passover vacation grows to include dozens of destinations around the world

Widening definitions of what's considered kosher for Passover has some Jews of Eastern European descent serving rice, beans and corn at the Seder for the first time, WCBS 880's Marla Diamond reported. This year they will celebrate on Saturday evening, he said, through a catered meal at the Northeast 8th Avenue synagogue. A 2000 survey of American Jews found that it is the mostly widely observed Jewish holiday in the US, with 77 percent of respondents indicating that they attended a seder.To some extent this can be attributed to the fact that it's a holiday largely observed in homes.

The holiday is widely celebrated among the world's 14 million Jews - including those who are non-religious - at home on the first night with special foods along with a retelling of the 3,500-year-old Exodus story found in the Holy Scriptures. Commemorated at the Seder table are the Exodus from Egypt and the birth of the Jewish nation over three millennia ago - and at the same time participants embark on a modern-day journey to spiritual freedom.

"Our Seder starts at nightfall which is Anchorage is after 11 p.m.", Bran said.

A cup of ritual wine is consumed at four different points in the meal, and a fifth, ceremonial cup, called Elijah's cup, is left for the prophet Elijah, who according to tradition is liable to drop in on a Seder.

As Jews, we are obligated to pass the story on to our children, and the Seder is how we do that. Not even a week later they are surrounded by the Egyptian army chasing after them and the sea in front of them, with no place to turn.

"We have to try to experience bitterness and talk about our blessings to truly appreciate freedom and all we have", said Marozov. "The last thing that I wanted was to just eat matzo and jam all Passover". Jews take care to remove all dishes, pots and pans used during everyday cooking and eating and use dishes and items specially set aside for use during this time only.

Friday marks the beginning of the Passover where Jewish people around the world celebrate the holiday with traditional food and stories.

"This year there may be a lot of discussions about refugees", said Blazer. There are many issues today that we are responsible to resolve, including providing safe sanctuary for people fleeing war and genocide (just like our ancestors fled Egypt from oppression).

"The whole concept of Passover is exodus". "No one person has the right to take away another human beings rights", he said. "May this season inspire us all to rededicate ourselves to peace and freedom for all of God's children". A ceremonial book, "Hagada", narrates all the rituals to be followed. "This event of coming out of Egypt and wandering the dessert began our history as a people".

Specifically, their concerns focused on the likelihood of said substances being mixed with other grains forbidden from Passover -like rye, barley and wheat - prompting them to err on the side of caution and ban them all entirely. One of his highlights in office was hosting seder for the first time in the White House in 2009.

Source: Passover vacation grows to include dozens of destinations around the world

Passover vacation niche grows to dozens of destinations

Widening definitions of what's considered kosher for Passover has some Jews of Eastern European descent serving rice, beans and corn at the Seder for the first time, WCBS 880's Marla Diamond reported.

Tonight marks the beginning of Passover.

For Miriam Allenson, Passover is of course an occasion steeped in religious tradition, filled with ancient, solemn customs and abounding in time-honored holy symbols. The symbolism-rich seder meal generally kicks off the first of day of Passover, although some sects or congregations celebrate a seder on the first two evenings.

"When we began dating I could see he was a man with the most tender heart", she said of her husband, 60. As many as 100,000 people booked hotel rooms for this year's Passover, and the resulting revenue of nearly $70 million is double that of ten years ago.

Chabad of SCV is hosting their seder tonight at 7:45 p.m.at the Chabad location in Newhall. The event is open and free to all military, Department of the Army civilians and their Families. This year's themes are Traditional Seder, Freedom Seder, LGBTQA Seder, Music Seder, and Not Your Bubbe's Seder. At the Seder, all generations sit together and the children play a significant role. Tickets are $60 for adults and $30 for children, with no one being turned down for lack of funds. When the Jews were in Egypt, they were slaves for 400 years. "It expands what we can eat!' But she grew up in a Reformed background".

He had planned to host the meal for his church small group on the Sunday before Passover (April 17), but they've had to reschedule because of illness.

During that period of time Jews will not eat "leavened" bread but instead will eat Matzah, a hard flat wheat bread.

Each food item symbolizes part of the Passover story. "But this is opening us up to other avenues and viewpoints", he said.

Blazer explained along with the traditions of singing, reading the story of the exodus and the rituals of the meal, many Jewish families take the opportunity to focus on the larger social and political issues of the day. The service will again this year include a talk by David W. Wildermuth, Shippensburg University assistant professor of German, who will discuss "Anatomy of an Atrocity: German Soldiers and the Pacification" of Lida in the Holocaust's "First Hour". In fact the Torah teaches us, that even after witnessing numerous miracles of the exodus, 80% of the Jewish people did not want to leave Egypt, and died in the plaque of darkness.

Preparations for Passover go well beyond the tasks of living a kosher lifestyle, she says, and some older people whose family members live far away might find the tasks too physically daunting and book a hotel instead, she says.

"You know, I should make sure I don't get enslaved, but also that no one should be enslaved", Rabbi Swartz said.

"What is national freedom if not a people's inner freedom to cultivate its abilities along the beaten path of its history?".

Some synagogues, like the Chabad, have communal Seders to celebrate God's role in loosening the bonds of slavery for the Hebrews.

Source: Passover vacation niche grows to dozens of destinations

London Becomes a Leading Destination for French Jews After Attacks

The Western Marble Arch Synagogue has begun offering services to Sephardic Jews, many of whom are French. Sephardic Jews are descendants of Jews from Spain, Portugal, the Middle East and North Africa, like Mr. Nakache, who is of Tunisian and Algerian origin. Most British Jews are Ashkenazi, whose ancestors were mainly German and Eastern European. Although prayer services are done in Hebrew for either group, there are differences.

"We want to provide a service the French are familiar with," said the synagogue's chief rabbi, Sam Taylor, adding that their numbers have grown "significantly." About 20 percent of the synagogue's 700-member congregation is French, he said, and they now make up the largest minority group. His synagogue also recently began offering Bible class es in French.

The Anshei Shalom Synagogue in St. John's Wood, a Sephardic synagogue, opened 13 years ago with very few French Jews. Today, 70 percent of the 160-member congregation is French, said Chief Rabbi Mordechai Fhima, who is also French. Mr. Fhima now gives several lectures in French during the week and invites rabbis from France to speak to the congregation.

At the nearby St. John's Wood Synagogue, Chief Rabbi Dayan Ivan Binstock said that social events were now increasingly a mix of Ashkenazi and Sephardic Jews because of the growing French crowd.

"I'm increasingly starting my sermons in French," he said.

Franc e is forbidden by law to collect statistics based on race or ethnic origin, so the exact number of French Jews in Britain is unknown. But Marc Meyer, the director of the Conference of European Rabbis, estimates that about 25,000 of them live in London, out of about 500,000 French citizens. In some Jewish schools, he said, the number of French children has risen by as much as 60 percent over the past year.

Photo Kevin Nakache is one of about 5,000 French Jews thought to have moved to Britain over the past two years as France grapples with the radicalization of young Muslims and a rise in anti-Semitism. Credit Andrew Testa for The New York Times

French Jews are also moving to Israel, the United States, Canada, Australia and elsewhere in Europe like Belgium and Luxembourg. Mr. Nakache's sister lives in New York, he said, and at least 20 of his Jewish friends have also left Marseille.

An official at the Paris-based Jewish Consistory of France, a body that oversees all Jewish congregations in the country, said that at least 4,000 families left France in 2015 alone. "We are deluged with calls," said the employee, who asked not to be named because the issue is sensitive. "These families are afraid for their children," she added.

Global jihadists, the rise of far-right groups, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and conspiracy theories found on the Internet have all made French Jews choice targets. "The level of violence committed against Jews in France is increasingly deadly," said Michel Wieviorka, the director of France's School for Advanced Studies in the Social Sciences.

A more virulent strain of anti-Semitism is emerging in some areas of French society that are often poor and have large Muslim populations, Mr. Wieviorka said. "The blurring of lines between Islam and Palestine has become the heart of anti-Semitism." Others, however, emphasize that to be pro-Palestinian does not mean to be anti-Semitic.

Then there is the rise of far-right groups like the National Front, whose former leader Jean-Marie Le Pen denied the Holocaust. Although the current leader, his daughter, has rejected those views, French Jews say they are unconvinced.

In London, French Jews who were interviewed said they felt safe even though the number of anti-Semitic attacks in Britain is slightly higher than in France. For one, they are harassed less for wearing skullcaps, they said.

Ilan Tall, who left Marseille in July, said that wearing a skullcap there "is dangerous," adding that he wore his under a baseball cap for years. After the machete attack on a rabbi by an Islamic State supporter in January, the main Jewish leader in Marseille advised Jews to stop wearing skullcaps.

Olivier Gozlan said he was taken aback when colleagues in London encouraged him to wear a skullcap at work, something that is rare in France. Minorities appear to be better integrated in Britain, he said, because Britain emphasizes multiculturalism, unlike assimilation in France. Britain also has a more diverse Muslim population than France, where most Muslims are from North Africa.

Thousands of surveillance cameras placed in almost every nook and cranny of Britain also help. "If you get attacked, at least everything's recorded," Mr. Nakache said.

Simon Tobelem, a French venture capitalist in London, said he appreciated the French government's efforts to protect Jews, including posting soldiers outside schools in the wake of the terrorist attacks. Still, "in spite of everything, there is a pervasive feeling that we're no longer welcome in France," he said.

French Jews from Paris say they miss the lifestyle there — there are far more kosher restaurants there than in London, at least two Jewish radio stations, and lots of synagogues.

But most of them said they do not plan to return home: They will either settle in Britain or move elsewhere, just not France. "My culture is French, and I'll defend it to my death," Mr. Tobelem said . "But is France my homeland anymore? No."

Mr. Nakache agreed. "Too bad if France loses all of its Jews."

Continue reading the main story
Source: London Becomes a Leading Destination for French Jews After Attacks

The 10 best islands in Europe, according to TripAdvisor

leoks/ShutterstockSantorini is one of the top islands in Europe, according to TripAdvisor.

TripAdvisor recently released the results of its Travellers' Choice Awards 2016 to reveal the top islands in the world and in Europe.

The travel review site filtered through millions of user reviews to rank the world's best islands and broke down its results by region.

European destinations that made the cut include large Portuguese archipelagos with breathtaking scenery to Greek islands sprinkled with quaint villages and idyllic beaches.

Here are the ten best islands on the continent:

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Source: The 10 best islands in Europe, according to TripAdvisor

How safe is your favourite holiday destination?

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Some of Europe's best loved holiday destinations are now deemed at 'high' risk of terrorism.

Places like Spain and France have been popular holiday spots for decades with Brits seeking relaxation and warm weather.

With the current conflicts around the world, holidaymakers have been warned by the Foreign Office (FCO) that "there is considered to be a heightened threat of terrorist attacks globally against UK interests and British nationals from groups or individuals motivated by the conflict in Iraq and Syria".

So just how safe are your summer holiday hotspots?

France

Risk Level: High

France has been shaken by two large scale terror attacks within a year. The Paris attacks in November occurred when the country was still at high risk level following the attacks on Charlie Hebdo.

During the massacre in November, the attackers struck the capital's Bataclan theatre, cafés and restaurants, killing 130 people and injuring a further 368.

The FCO says: "There is a high threat from terrorism. Due to ongoing threats to France by Islamist terrorist groups, and recent French military intervention against Daesh (formerly referred to as ISIL), the French government has warned the public to be especially vigilant and has reinforced its security measures."

Spain

Risk Level: High

According to the Foreign Office "more than 12million British nationals visit Spain every year."

This makes it one of the most popular destinations for Brits, and the FCO says: "most visits are trouble free."

Spanish authorities claim to have taken measures to help protect tourists but are asking visitors to remain vigilant at all times and to follow the instructions of local authorities.

There is an overall high threat of terrorism in the country.

Germany

Risk Level: High

The most recent country to have its terror rating raised to 'high' and home to over 2 million British tourists a year, Germany has increased security in recent months.

Extra precautions have been put in place by local authorities at public buildings, major events, transports hubs and large public gatherings.

The FCO says: "There's no requirement to carry your passport with you, but the police are currently carrying out more frequent ID checks. If you're asked to show your passport and you don't have it with you, the police may escort you to wherever your passport is being kept so that you can show it to them."

Italy

Risk Level: General

Terrorism attacks in Italy could be "indiscriminate, including in places frequented by tourists."

The Foreign Office also advises that "Demonstrations may occur with little or no warning in cities. You should avoid any protests, political gatherings, or marches."

They also advise that although there is a general threat of terrorism, there are also isolated cases of domestic terrorism.

Malta

Risk Level: Low

Game of Thrones fans will be familiar with the beautiful Mediterranean island that provides the backdrop for many scenes of the series.

Malta is considered one of the safest European destinations for holidaymakers this summer.

The FCO says there is a "low threat of terrorism and most visits to the Island by British nationals are trouble free."

Currently the Foreign Office states that crime against tourists is rare 'although robberies, handbag snatching, pick-pocketing and theft from parked cars can occur.'

Source: How safe is your favourite holiday destination?

Alexis Tsipras: Greece Is and Remains a Safe Destination

Greece is and remains a safe destination and this must be Parliament's message to those choosing to spend their holidays in the country, Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras said on Wednesday. Addressing MPs during a debate on security requested by main opposition New Democracy, Tsipras praised ND leader Kyriakos Mitsotakis for ending his own address in Parliament on this note but criticized the decision to call for a debate on security in the first place, accusing the main opposition leader of "fishing in the murky waters of the far right."

"This is the first debate that [Mitsotakis] has asked to be held in Parliament. ND did not ask for a debate on the economy, the refugee problem, unemployment, pensions or the country's growth prospects. I do not underestimate the issue [of security] but I wonder…What does this initiative seek to achieve; my question is rhetorical because the motives are clear," Tsipras noted.

A linking of citizens' security with the refugee crisis "was the argument of the most reactionary forces in Europe. The position of those raising walls in Europe," Tsipras added, noting that ND was a adopting a xenophobic line.

Replying to Mitsotakis, he said the ND leader's address was a "monument to danger and doom-mongering" and rejected all suggestion of a relationship between the Left and terrorism, stressing that leftists do not have and have never had relations with anti-establishment and other groups "that do not respect the value of human life."

The prime minister also replied to criticism regarding the ongoing negotiations to conclude the first review of the Greek program, saying "ND should not bet all its money on the government's failure." Replying to other center-left opposition leaders, namely PASOK's Fofi Gennimata and Potami's Stavros Theodorakis, he urged them to take stock of what was happening in Europe and support the government "because there can't be a center-left without a left."

The review will be completed and the figures due to be released by Eurostat on Thursday will show that there is no basis for ND's claim that the SYRIZA-ANEL government's negotiation "destroyed" the economy, Tsipras said. He pointed to Wednesday's interview given by European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker, who said that there was no need for emergency measures for Greece and challenged ND to state its own position at the "difficult turning point."

Tsipras attributed the better-than-expected results to an increase in tourism and the government's decision to vote the 100-installment settlement schemes for debts to the state, as well as the 98% absorption of EU funds that injected five billion euros in the Greek market.

Wrapping up the debate, he said the message emerging from the discussion in Parliament was that Greece remains a safe country, with a culture of deeply held universal human values that the Greek people had demonstrated during the unprecedented refugee crisis, opening up their arms to welcome what was different and allowing solidarity and humanity to prevail.

Source: ANA MPA

Source: Alexis Tsipras: Greece Is and Remains a Safe Destination

Chinese tax free spending slows in first quarter, reports Global Blue

Published: 20/04/16

Source: ©The Moodie Davitt Report

By Dermot Davitt

CHINA. Tax free shopping spend among Chinese travellers fell by -24% year-on-year in March, according to tax refund specialist Global Blue in its Globe Shopper Report: China Edition. This follows two months of slower growth in January (+11%) and February (+5%) compared to the same period a year earlier.

The news emerged ahead of China's Labour Day public holiday, and combines data from over 27 million tax free shopping transactions with the opinions of 5,000 regular Chinese travellers about their travel and spending plans for 2016.

The Q1 figures compare with an overall increase of +58% in Chinese tax free shopping spend during 2015. The decline, said Global Blue, comes against the backdrop of a number of factors including:

• Schengen biometric visa demands – the ease of obtaining a visa was an important consideration for 22% of regular Chinese travellers when choosing a holiday destination;• European terrorist attacks – a safe and secure destination wa s cited by 56% of respondents as an important destination factor;• Tough comparison against 2015 – March 2015 saw stellar growth of +122% year-on-year, partly due to the Chinese New Year holiday falling later last year.

The impact of the fluctuation of the Chinese Yuan on tax free shopping sales is likely to be minimal during Q1 2016 as the Yuan weakened by just -3% against the Euro during this period, noted Global Blue. However, the research indicated that almost half of those surveyed would reconsider their destination (46%) or reduce their shopping budget (47%) due to a weakened Yuan, and the rate most likely to prompt a change in behaviour was CNY1/€0.130 or lower, below the current rate of CNY1/€0.137.

Global Blue said: "Despite recent negative growth, Chinese shoppers remain the largest tax free shopping market, accounting for a third of global sales. Shopping remains a hugely important part of the holiday experience for regular Chinese travellers, as 81% of those planning international travel in 2016 will shop during their trip. The average shopping budget will be €3,544 (CNY25,902) per trip to Europe and €2,517 (CNY18,398) per trip to Asia.

While there is "low visibility� �� around the performance of the luxury sector in 2016, research findings indicate outbound trips by regular Chinese travellers will be highest in May and October, representing opportunities for international retailers.

May 2016 is expected to be the most popular month for travel to Europe, Japan and South Korea, while October 2016 will be popular for visits to other Asia-Pacific destinations, such as Australia and Singapore. These two key months coincide with major Chinese holidays: Labour Day (1-4 May) and Golden Week (1-7 October).

Asia is set to be the primary recipient of Chinese visitors throughout the year, with almost three quarters (73%) of those planning a holiday in 2016 intending to travel within the region. South Korea is predicted to become the most visited destination with over a quarter (26%) of regular Chinese travellers planning a trip this year, while Japan follows with 23%.

When it comes to Chinese tax free shopping spend within Asia, Japan was the region's strongest performer during Q1, showing +50% growth. During this period Chinese shoppers accounted for 54% of APAC's tax free shopping sales. The number of Chinese transactions in Asia also increased +32% during Q1 2016, indicating that visitor numbers are up.

Despite the challenges associated with the new Schengen biometric visa requirements and recent terror attacks, 41% of regular Chinese travellers planning a holiday in 2016 intend to visit Europe. France (16%) is the most popular European destination followed by Germany (8%), Italy (6%) and the UK (6%).

Value and convenienceWhen asked what makes a good shopping destination, 35% of regular Chinese travellers who shop abroad want a good selection of shopping malls or retail parks, while a third (33%) look for a destination with famous international brand stores. For 31%, the ability to buy products at a better price than they can in China is an important consideration.

The research also revealed the top five services that should be offered by retailers looking to attract Chinese Globe Shoppers:

1. Tax Free Shopping (65%)2. Ability to pay with China Union Pay (55%)3. Ability to pay in my home currency (46%)4. Staff who speak my language (39%)5. Wi-Fi in-store (26%)

Travel, shopping and fashion websites (43%) and recommendations from friends and family (43%) are the main research points for international shopping. For many, social media also plays a key role, either through the brand's own site (38%) or via inspiration from friends' pages (36%).

Source: Chinese tax free spending slows in first quarter, reports Global Blue