Melanie Ashton - MTA Travel

24/06/2025

✈️ Travel Via the Middle East – What You Need to Know

There’s been some overnight disruption to flight routes through the Middle East due to the current situation in the region, with some airspace closures and diversions. The good news is that a ceasefire has now been agreed, and things are beginning to settle, with some flights resuming normal paths.

If you’re travelling soon, especially on airlines that transit via the Middle East, be aware that some delays may still occur. However, there’s no need to panic, airlines have long-standing safety systems and protocols in place to manage these situations, and they’ll guide you through any necessary steps if your flight is affected.

I’m keeping a close eye on updates and am aligned with the Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA), who are encouraging travellers to stay calm and follow official advice.

If you’ve got any questions or concerns about your upcoming travel, feel free to reach out.

Let’s all hope for a peaceful and swift resolution soon.

— Melanie Ashton | MTA Travel

15/03/2025

If you’re planning to visit the Trevi Fountain, you might notice things work a little differently now.

To protect this iconic monument and improve the visitor experience, a new system is in place.

The fountain is open daily from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM, with the last entry at 8:30 PM. However, on Mondays and Fridays, it opens later at 12:00 PM due to maintenance.

Access is now controlled, with only 400 people allowed at a time, so you might need to wait your turn.

There’s also a new route: visitors must enter through the central staircase and exit via Via dei Crociferi on the left side. And yes, there are new rules to follow—no sitting on the fountain’s edge, no food, drinks, or smoking near the water, and coins must be tossed in the designated area only.

These changes aim to keep the Trevi Fountain beautiful and accessible for everyone. If you’ve visited under the new system, let us know how it went!

24/12/2024

🎄✨ Merry Christmas! ✨🎄

I just wanted to wish you all a very Merry Christmas! I hope your day is filled with lots of laughter, good food, and time with the people you love most.

This year, I’m lucky enough to be travelling through Asia with my family over the holiday period (30th Dec - 16th Jan), making some amazing memories of our own.

During my absence the Assistance Team at MTA will handle all urgent enquiries and any travel arrangements that require an immediate response.

The assistance team is available Monday – Friday 8.30am – 5.00pm QLD Time either by
Email - [email protected] or Phone – 07 5593 3322 (select Assistance)

If your enquiry is not immediate, please email me a detailed message, and I will attend as soon as possible on my return.

Don’t forget if you do email the MTA Assistance team, please also cc myself in to the email so I have a reference.

Thank you so much for all your support this year—it truly means the world to me.

Wishing you a magical Christmas and a happy, relaxing holiday season!

10/12/2024

03/12/2024

🌴 Experience Luxury at Its Finest: Qualia, Hamilton Island 🌴

Have you ever dreamed of a serene escape to paradise? I recently had the privilege of site inspecting Qualia, Hamilton Island, and I can confirm—it’s every bit as magical as you’ve imagined! From its breathtaking Whitsundays views to its world-class service, Qualia truly redefines luxury.

✨ Why Book Qualia with Me?

When you book with me, you’ll receive:
✅ Upgrade on arrival within the same pavilion category booked (subject to availability)
✅ Daily full breakfast for two, served in the restaurant
✅ Your choice of ONE unique experience:
- Colors of Sunset Cruise: A 1.5-hour luxury tour of the Whitsundays, with canapés and select beverages for two adults
or
- Talk & Taste Experience, once during your stay
✅ Complimentary room upgrades (subject to availability)
✅ Your choice of ONE unique experience:

💰 New Bonus Offer: Book Qualia with me and receive an additional $500 resort credit to elevate your stay even further. Whether you indulge in a rejuvenating spa experience or exquisite dining, this bonus is perfect for making unforgettable memories.

🏝️ Escape to this private oasis, where every detail is designed to relax, recharge, and inspire. Trust me, it’s a destination that will exceed all expectations.

📅 Ready to make your dream getaway a reality? Email me [email protected] to secure your stay at Qualia, Hamilton Island and take advantage of these unparalleled benefits.

Let’s make your next holiday extraordinary! 🌟

28/11/2024

UPDATE
Back to business as usual! 😊

Thank you all for your patience and understanding while I attended to an urgent matter. I’m now back and ready to assist you with your travel needs!
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**Unexpected Out of Office Notice**

Due to an unexpected personal emergency, I will be out of the office and unable to respond to messages for the time being. I apologise for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding during this time.

If your matter is urgent, please text me 0480191317

Thank you for your patience and support.

06/11/2024

An amazing evening with .hotels.international! It was inspiring to learn about their stunning properties worldwide, enjoy a taste of Spain right here in Melbourne, and savor the fantastic food and ambiance at . And as if the night couldn’t get better—I walked away with a 2-night stay in Paris!

Thank you for a wonderful evening!

25/10/2024

European Christmas Markets Dates 2024🎄

🇳🇱Amsterdam - 15 Nov - 5th Jan
🇦🇹Vienna, Austria - Nov 16 to Dec 24
🇸🇪Gothenburg, Sweden (Liseberg) - Nov 17 to Dec 23
🇩🇰Copenhagen,Denmark (Tivoli Gardens) - Nov 17 to Jan 1
🇭🇺Budapest, Hungary - Nov 17 to Jan 1
🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿Edinburgh, Scotland - Nov 17 to Jan 5
🇩🇪Cologne, Germany - Nov 18 to Dec 23
🇪🇪Tallinn, Estonia - Nov 21 to Dec 26
🇬🇧London, UK (Hyde Park) - Nov 21 to Jan 5
🇨🇭Zurich, Switzerland - Nov 23 to Dec 24
🇱🇺Luxembourg City, Luxembourg - Nov 23 to Dec 24
🇧🇪Bruges, Belgium - Nov 24 to Jan 1
🇩🇪Berlin (Gendarmenmarkt), Germany - Nov 25 to Dec 31
🇩🇪Munich, Germany - Nov 27 to Dec 24
🇫🇷Strasbourg, France - Nov 27 to Dec 30
🇩🇪Dresden, Germany (Striezelmarkt) - Nov 27 to Dec 24
🇵🇱Krakow, Poland - Nov 29 to Dec 26
🇧🇪Brussels, Belgium (Winter Wonders) - Nov 29 to Jan 5
🇨🇿Prague, Czech Republic - 30 Nov to Jan 6
🇸🇪Stockholm, Sweden (Skansen) - Nov 30 to Dec 23
🇫🇮Helsinki, Finland - Dec 1 to Dec 22
🇱🇻Riga, Latvia - Dec 1 to Jan 6

20/10/2024

🌴 Out of Office 🌴

I’m excited to be heading to Hamilton Island for an exclusive experience, thanks to Hamilton Island Tourism!

I’ll be exploring stunning hotels, including a sneak peek at the soon-to-open **Sundays**, as well as discovering some of the island’s top activities and dining spots.

I’ll be out of the office from Monday the 21st of October and will be back to regular hours by 10am on Thursday the 24th of October.

Can’t wait to share all the details when I’m back! 🏖️🍹

Mel 😊

05/10/2024

19/09/2024

Such an amazing evening at France Soir, enjoying an exquisite French feast and wonderful vibes with the fabulous Simone from and my wonderful colleague .mtatravel 🍷🍽

It was a real pleasure learning all about their incredible portfolio of stunning properties, each offering unique and luxurious experiences.

If you’re looking for unforgettable stays across their iconic locations, Lore Group is definitely one to explore! ✨

16/09/2024

🌟 Florence Highlight from My Clients Rhi and Dan🌟

A must-do in Florence, as shared by my wonderful clients, is booking the Brunelleschi Pass! For just €30, you get to climb to the top of the Duomo (as seen in this photo – 463 steps to breathtaking views!) plus access to the bell tower, baptistery, cathedral, museum, and Santa Reparata crypt. They chose the 9am slot and beat the crowds – only 20 people ahead, with about 100 behind! It’s a bit of lining up, but totally worth it for such an incredible experience!