Cathie Rice Travel

31/03/2026

05/03/2026

Australian Travel Industry Association CEO pushes back on 'cancel your Europe trip' headlines

RECORD SET STRAIGHT: AVIATION EXPERT DID NOT ADVISE AUSTRALIANS TO CANCEL EUROPE TRIPS
The Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA) and aviation safety expert Professor Ron Bartsch are jointly correcting media reports today that wrongly characterised his comments as a recommendation for Australians to cancel travel bookings to Europe for the next six months.

Professor Bartsch's comments, reported in The Advertiser this morning, related specifically to the
operational impact of Middle East airspace restrictions on flight corridors and fuel costs - not a
recommendation to cancel future bookings. That critical distinction was lost in today's headlined
coverage and subsequent re-reporting.

The facts are these: Etihad and Emirates are flying today. Asian carriers including Singapore
Airlines and multiple Chinese carriers are operating normally and providing reliable alternative
routings to Europe. All Qantas flights to Europe continue to operate. Qantas does not fly into the
Middle East.

Australians booked to travel to Europe in coming months should not cancel. There are options.
Those booked to travel shortly via Middle East hubs should wait for their airline to act - panic-cancelling
erases all rights to a refund or rebook. Those travelling in the next few months should speak to their accredited travel agent or tour operator about alternative routes.

QUOTES ATTRIBUTABLE TO PROFESSOR RON BARTSCH, CHAIRMAN, AVLAW CONSULTING

“My comments this morning were about the operational complexities created by Middle East
airspace restrictions — the impact on flight corridors, hub disruptions and fuel costs which will
continue to be felt for the next 6 months. I did not advise Australians to cancel their travel plans
to Europe. Aviation is an adaptive industry. Airlines are rerouting, alternatives exist, and travellers
should be making decisions based on accurate information, not headlines that misrepresent
what was said.”

QUOTES ATTRIBUTABLE TO ATIA CEO DEAN LONG

"There are plenty of safe ways to get to Europe and the aviation sector has and will continue to
adapt. Asia is open and operating. We have flights coming out of the Middle East. There will be
some delays and a bit more disruption than what we're used to but no one in the travel industry is
going to put you in a place where it's unsafe."

“Importantly, do not cancel. Whether you are booked to travel in the next weeks or planning to
travel in coming months. If you’re booked to go shortly via the Middle East, it is critical that you
do not panic-cancel but rather wait for your airline to cancel as otherwise you are erasing all of
your rights of a refund or rebook. If your trip is in the next couple of months, talk to your
accredited travel agent or tour operator as there are plenty of alternates.”

This is a situation the industry has navigated before. Twelve months ago, a 12-day conflict in the
Middle East caused disruption and the travel industry resolved it quickly
ATIA’s practical advice for travellers right now:
• Download your airline's app and check the Manage My Booking tab before heading to the
airport to make sure your flight is actually going ahead
• Register with Smart Traveller https://www.smartraveller.gov.au
• If you're already in the Middle East and want to get home, register with DFAT now - Middle
Eastern carriers are repatriating Australians with no additional charges
• If you’re booked to travel in the next few weeks, don’t Panic-Cancel.
• If you’re booked to travel in the next few months, talk to your accredited travel agent or
tour operator as there are plenty of alternative routes

Due to the deteriorating regional security situation, we’ve raised our level of advice and now advise do not travel to Israel. Military strikes and reprisal attacks are occurring in Israel, and other locations in the Middle East. The Government of Israel has declared a state of emergency and advis...

01/03/2026

Important Travel Update: Middle East Airspace Disruptions

We understand how unsettling travel uncertainty can be, and we want to assure you that we're here to support you through the current disruptions caused by airspace closures in parts of the Middle East.

What We're Doing Right Now:
• We're reviewing bookings departing from today until 5 March. If your travel falls within these dates and your booking is impacted, we will reach out to you directly with clear guidance and your available options.

• Not all bookings will be affected. Many flights may proceed as soon as the airspace reopens, and in those cases, your travel will continue as originally planned.

• If you haven’t received communication from us, this means either we don't have updated information regarding your booking yet, or your booking is not affected. We're closely monitoring the situation and will contact you if there are any changes.

For Travel Beyond 5 March:

We currently don't have confirmed information. Rest assured, we will provide updates and reach out if and when your trip is impacted.

For Bookings Outside Affected Dates:

If you wish to make changes or cancel travel, and your dates are not within the affected period, your booking will be managed according to the airline’s usual terms and conditions.

The Situation:

From all the information we’ve received, including communications from the main Middle Eastern carriers, the situation remains fluid. At present, there’s no indication of when key airports might reopen or when full flight schedules might resume.

What’s Happening in the Region:

Several countries in the Gulf region have closed or heavily restricted their airspace following escalating regional hostilities. Major hubs, including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Doha, are impacted, with cancellations, delays, and rerouting happening across multiple carriers.

Airlines Currently Affected:

• Emirates, Etihad Airways, and Qatar Airways are the most directly impacted at this time.
• Other international airlines routing through Gulf airspace are also being affected.

Travel Advice:

• The Australian Government’s Smartraveller has updated its advice for major ports in the Middle East, including the UAE and Qatar.
• DFAT (Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade) has also updated its travel advice on the Middle East conflict page. We recommend checking it regularly for the latest information: Smartraveller - Middle East Conflict.

How to Check Flight Status:

• The quickest way to stay updated is through your airline’s app (with push notifications) or by visiting the airport’s website for live departure and arrival information.

Travel Insurance:

Cover can vary significantly between policies. We strongly encourage you to contact your insurer directly to clarify how this situation might affect your coverage.

We truly appreciate your patience, understanding, and kindness during this evolving situation. As always, if you need assistance, we are here for you.

01/02/2026

🇬🇧 IMPORTANT UK ENTRY UPDATE – Dual British Citizens 🇬🇧
Effective from 25 February 2026

The British High Commission has issued an important update regarding UK entry requirements for dual British citizens.

🔹 From 25 February 2026, all dual British citizens must present one of the following when travelling to the UK to avoid delays or denied boarding:

✅ A valid British passport, OR
✅ A non-UK passport (e.g. Australian) with a valid Certificate of Entitlement (CoE) to the Right of Abode in the UK

❗ Important to note
• Dual British citizens cannot apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) – even if their other nationality would normally require one
• Travelling without a British passport or CoE may result in denied boarding or significant border delays
• From 26 February 2026, Certificates of Entitlement will be issued in digital format

👤 Who is considered a dual British citizen?
This includes people who:
• Were born British and later acquired another nationality
• Naturalised or registered as British
• Have held British and another nationality since birth

If you are unsure of your status (for example, if a parent was born in the UK), you should check directly with UK Visas & Immigration.

🔗 We recommend reviewing the latest advice from the British High Commission and confirming your own requirements before travel.

⚠️ Disclaimer
This information is general only and should not be used to determine your individual eligibility or travel requirements. Entry rules can change, and travellers should always confirm requirements via official government sources.

16/12/2025

Hot Deal – Royal Princess
Honolulu – Vancouver – 16 April 2027 – 12 Nights

Amazing Deal on Royal Princess across the Pacific from Honolulu to Vancouver, taking in San Diego, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Victoria and finishing in Vancouver.

Pricing from –
IF Inside Grade: From $1,879pp twin share – Saving $3,730pp twin share
BW Balcony Grade: From $2,099pp twin share –Saving $4,472pp twin share
MF Mini Suite: From $3,859pp twin share – Saving $4,640pp twin share

https://pro.cruiseco.com.au/swift/cruise/package/1563973--pacific-crossing--honolulu-to-british-columbia?siid=197142

21/10/2025

New Cruise Package

Sajura Dreams by the Sea – 12 Night Fly, Cruise & Stay Package – Kobe to Tokyo
Azamara Pursuit – 1 April 2027 – 12 Nights
Experience Japan in full bloom during the enchanting cherry blossom season, when petals drift through temple gardens and the nations timeless spirit shines brightest. This 12 night journey blends authentic cultural discovery with refined luxury, showcasing Japan's artistry, elegance and natural beauty. Begin with 2 nights in Kobe, the gateway to Kyoto's ancient wonders. Wander through tranquil shrines, explore atmospheric laneways, and indulge in world-renowned Kobe cuisine before embarking on your voyage. Then set sail aboard Azamara Pursuit for a 9 night Japan Intensive cruise, designed for deeper exploration and longer stays in port. Discover Hiroshima's poignant history, the peaceful beauty of Takamatsu's Ritsurin Garden, and the scenic charm of Nagasaki and Kagoshima, where tradition meets nature in perfect harmony. Conclude your journey with a night in Tokyo, where the blossoms frame a skyline of innovation and artistry. From sacred temples to springtime parks in bloom, this voyage captures the very soul of Japan - a celebration of culture, grace and the fleeting beauty of the sakura season.

12 Night Package Includes
• Full-service economy flights† return from Australia
• 2 nights, 4-star accommodation in Kobe+
• 9 night cruise from Kobe to Tokyo aboard Azamara Pursuit
• Variety of dining venues~ and 24-hour room service
• Beer, wine and spirits≈ all day & night
• Signature AZ Amazing Evenings
• Unlimited self-service laundry
• 1 night, 4-star accommodation in Tokyo+
• Port charges, government fees, onboard gratuities≅ and air taxes

Pricing from:
Inside: $6,889pp twin share
Outside: $7,529pp twin share
Balcony: $8,999pp twin share


URL – https://pro.cruiseco.com.au/swift/cruise/package/-1_53523--aza53523-sakura-dreams-by-the-sea---12-night-fly--cruise---stay-package---kobe-to-tokyo?siidsiid=197142

06/10/2025

🚆✨ LAST CHANCE TO RSVP! ✨🚢
Join us for an inspiring Journey Beyond & Ponant Presentation at the Chamber of Commerce, Bunbury on Tuesday, 15 October at 10:15am.
Hear all about Australia’s iconic train journeys – The Ghan and Indian Pacific – plus hear about the incredible Monarto Safari Park experience in South Australia.
Then, step aboard the world of Ponant and discover their luxury cruises and expedition voyages across the globe. 🌏
Enjoy light refreshments and plenty of travel inspiration!
📩 RSVP today – limited seats available!
[email protected]

18/09/2025

⚓ Discover Azamara Onward - your floating sanctuary! This boutique ship's intimate size unlocks exclusive destinations others can't reach.

Experience the Monaco Grand Prix™ on an extraordinary 21-night Mediterranean voyage.

Breathe in reviving sea air on deck, unwind at the Sanctum Spa, or sip handcrafted cocktails at the exclusive Atlas Bar with exotic flavours and dazzling displays. Your elegant suite becomes your home-from-home luxury retreat as you cruise the Mediterranean in style. Departing 24 May 2026.

🏁 Club Interior from $12,699pp Twin Share
🏁 Club Oceanview from $13,899pp Twin Share
🏁 Club Veranda from $15,899pp Twin Share
🏁 Club Continent Suite from $20,999pp Twin Share

Ready to sail in luxury? Contact us today.

17/09/2025

🌟 Why is Monaco Grand Prix™ the crown jewel of Formula 1®?

The glamorous streets transform into F1®'s most technically demanding challenge, where drivers push their skills to the absolute limit. One tiny mistake can end championship dreams!

Watch from Grandstand T with unparalleled pit lane views as legends are made on this iconic circuit. Departing 24 May 2026.

🏁 Club Interior from $12,699pp Twin Share
🏁 Club Oceanview from $13,899pp Twin Share
🏁 Club Veranda from $15,899pp Twin Share
🏁 Club Continent Suite from $20,999pp Twin Share

Witness racing legend unfold - enquire now!

16/09/2025

What stories lie behind Dubrovnik’s ancient walls or Sarajevo’s cobbled streets?

Well, on Collette's 15-day Balkans journey, be prepared to uncover traditions in rural villages, share meals with locals, and marvel at dramatic coastlines and mountain passes across Montenegro, Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, and Greece.

Book by the 9th of October 2025 and save up to $1,500 per couple.

Terms and Conditions Apply.

15/09/2025

Experience the harmony of ancient tradition and modern energy as you journey from Kyoto’s tranquil shrines to Tokyo’s bustling streets and Seoul’s vibrant heart on Collette's 15-day Japan & South Korea: From Tokyo to Seoul tour.

Every moment is a story waiting to be lived on this adventure, where you’ll meet Japan’s ama pearl divers, wander geisha quarters, explore royal palaces, and share a traditional meal in a Korean home.

Don’t miss out, book by the 9th October 2025 and save up to $1,500 per couple.

Terms and Conditions Apply.