FLIGHTS across Europe remained grounded yesterday due to the plume of volcanic ash drifting over the continent since Thursday.
Airlines confirm there will continue to be severe disruption to schedules on Monday, April 19.
British Airways says all flights to and from London on April 19 remain cancelled.
Flights affected include (April 18):
*BA0056 JNB-LHR
*BA0054 JNB-LHR
*BA0033 LHR-JNB
*BA0055 LHR-JNB
*BA0057 LHR-JNB
*BA0059 LHR-CPT
*BA0058 CPT-LHR
SAA says its flights between SA and Frankfurt, Munich and London remain grounded.
Flights affected include (April 18):
*SA234 JNB-LHR
*SA236 JNB-LHR
*SA220 CPT-LHR
*SA260 JNB-FRA
*SA264 JNB-MUC
*SA235 LHR-JNB
*SA237 LHR-JNB
*SA221 LHR-CPT
*SA261 FRA-JNB
*SA265 MUC-JNB
Virgin Atlantic has cancelled all its flights to and from London on April 19, while Lufthansa and Air France confirm no flights will be operated until that date. KLM and British Airways are conducting test flights without passengers to check the impact of volcanic ash on the aircraft.
Most airlines confirm passengers may apply for a full refund, or reschedule their flights without penalties within a set period.
Monday, April 19, 2010
KSIA FUEL SHOCK
PASSENGERS flying from King Shaka International Airport (KSIA) may be in for a surprise when they see ticket prices hiked as airlines are forced to pay more to transport fuel to the new airport.
“The old Durban International Airport is situated right next to the Sapref refinery, so it was possible to have a direct pipeline from the refinery to the airport. However KSIA is 60 kilometres away and fuel will need to be transported by road to the fuel tank farms next to the new airport,” confirms Acsa manager communications and brand for the DIA, Colin Naidoo.
The fuel tank farm, from which a pipeline feeds KSIA, can hold six million litres of jet fuel.
“The old Durban International Airport is situated right next to the Sapref refinery, so it was possible to have a direct pipeline from the refinery to the airport. However KSIA is 60 kilometres away and fuel will need to be transported by road to the fuel tank farms next to the new airport,” confirms Acsa manager communications and brand for the DIA, Colin Naidoo.
The fuel tank farm, from which a pipeline feeds KSIA, can hold six million litres of jet fuel.
Thursday, April 15, 2010
NEW LODGE IN MALAWI
Robin Pope Safaris has announced the start of its new project in Majete Wildlife Reserve in the Lower Shire Valley.
Construction of a unique and luxurious lodge on the banks of the Shire River has begun and is expected to be completed next year.
Majete, recently rejuvenated under the management of the renowned African Parks Network, is a 70 000 ha tract of mature woodlands and granite-topped hills, bisected by the Shire River and its tributaries, which add river valleys and riverine forest.
In addition to breathtaking scenery, the reserve, which is a mere one-and-a-half-hour drive from Blantyre, boasts an impressive mammal and bird list including sable antelope, black rhino, elephant and Lichtenstein hartebeest.
Construction of a unique and luxurious lodge on the banks of the Shire River has begun and is expected to be completed next year.
Majete, recently rejuvenated under the management of the renowned African Parks Network, is a 70 000 ha tract of mature woodlands and granite-topped hills, bisected by the Shire River and its tributaries, which add river valleys and riverine forest.
In addition to breathtaking scenery, the reserve, which is a mere one-and-a-half-hour drive from Blantyre, boasts an impressive mammal and bird list including sable antelope, black rhino, elephant and Lichtenstein hartebeest.
OR TAMBO NEW CENTRAL TERMINAL BUILDING TO OPEN
ON Tuesday, April 20, President Jacob Zuma will officially open the newly constructed Central Terminal Building (CTB) at OR Tambo International Airport.
Gm of OR Tambo International Airport, Chris Hlekane, declares that the official opening of CTB marks the completion of the state-of-the-art airport facility well in time for the World Cup. “Acsa works closely with FIFA to share data on traffic volumes around key games and venues. The airports are prepared to run 24 hours a day to ensure the smooth flow of operations.”
Completed facilities at the airport include the International Pier and a multi-storey parkade for 5 200 vehicles, bringing the total number of parking bays within and offsite the precinct to 17 500. Other facilities comprise seven new aircraft apron stands and the Gautrain Rapid Rail link.
Cape Town international Airport, which forms part of Acsa’s network of 10 airports, has a new CTB, a 400-vehicle multi-storey parkade, five new aircraft apron stands, and improved access roads. Meanwhile, Port Elizabeth, Upington, Kimberley, East London and Bloemfontein have all undergone runway upgrades and terminal refurbishing, and operational plans are nearing completion fort final signoff by May.
“OR Tambo International, and the other nine Acsa-managed airports will create those first impressions vital to market South Africa as a preferred destination for investment and tourism, able to compete proudly with the best facilities in the world,” says Hlekane.
Gm of OR Tambo International Airport, Chris Hlekane, declares that the official opening of CTB marks the completion of the state-of-the-art airport facility well in time for the World Cup. “Acsa works closely with FIFA to share data on traffic volumes around key games and venues. The airports are prepared to run 24 hours a day to ensure the smooth flow of operations.”
Completed facilities at the airport include the International Pier and a multi-storey parkade for 5 200 vehicles, bringing the total number of parking bays within and offsite the precinct to 17 500. Other facilities comprise seven new aircraft apron stands and the Gautrain Rapid Rail link.
Cape Town international Airport, which forms part of Acsa’s network of 10 airports, has a new CTB, a 400-vehicle multi-storey parkade, five new aircraft apron stands, and improved access roads. Meanwhile, Port Elizabeth, Upington, Kimberley, East London and Bloemfontein have all undergone runway upgrades and terminal refurbishing, and operational plans are nearing completion fort final signoff by May.
“OR Tambo International, and the other nine Acsa-managed airports will create those first impressions vital to market South Africa as a preferred destination for investment and tourism, able to compete proudly with the best facilities in the world,” says Hlekane.
VOLCANIC ASH CONTINUES TO DISRUPT UK AIR TRAFFIC
AIRLINE passengers continue to face massive disruptions across Europe after an ash cloud from a volcanic eruption in Iceland grounded flights since yesterday, April 15.
Flights to, from or connecting through British airports, including London’s Heathrow (LHR), were delayed or cancelled due to the volcanic activity in Iceland (see below for SA-affected flights).
Media reports state that the cloud of ash has affected airports in Norway, Denmark, Sweden and Ireland. There was also major disruption in Belgium, France, Finland, Germany and The Netherlands.
Further disruption is likely as a second eruption has occurred closer to Finland and Russia. The volcano is said to be still erupting and forecasters believe the cloud could take a number of days to disperse.
“It is very variable how long these eruptions last. Anywhere from a few days to over a year,” Magnus Tumi Gudmundsson, a professor of geophysics and civil protection adviser in Iceland, told the AFP news agency. “Judging from the intensity of this one, it could last a long time,” he added.
The movement of the plume, which has been drifting eastwards, is being monitored by Met Office, NATS, Eurocontrol and neighbouring countries.
British Airways spokesperson, Stephen Forbes, affirmed that flights scheduled to leave Heathrow on Thursday (April 15) night had been cancelled. As a result, the outbound flight, scheduled to depart South Africa tonight, has also been cancelled as there are no aircraft to transport passengers to the UK.
South African Airways cancelled its flights to and from London scheduled for departure on April 15. The following SAA flights scheduled to have departed today have been cancelled:
SA234 Johannesburg to London
SA235 London to Johannesburg
SA220 Cape Town to London
SA221 London to Cape Town
All other SAA’s international flights other than London are currently operating as normal.
Meanwhile Virgin Atlantic advises its flights have been cancelled:
VS601 15 Apr London Heathrow/Johannesburg
VS602 16 Apr Johannesburg/London Heathrow
"We are asking agents to advise their passengers travelling on any of these flights not to travel to the airport but rather check the website for updates and advise on what options are available (www.virginatlantic.com)," says marketing manager Caren Parkinson.
Lufthansa spokesperson, Karin Duncker, affirms the airports of Amsterdam and Brussels are also closed as they have reached capacity as a result of diverted aircraft landing at these airports. "For this reason Lufthansa has cancelled all flights to and from Brussels and Amsterdam. Delays and increased flight cancellations of Lufthansa aircraft to the affected areas have occurred. Passengers are currently being rerouted without charge or if preferred are receiving a full refund.
"Volcanic ash represents a significant safety threat to aircraft. The ash, which consists of pulverised rock and glass created by the eruptions, can damage the engines, causing them to shut down if an aircraft flies through the plume. Ash can also be sucked into the cabin itself, contaminating the passengers' environment as well as damaging the plane's electronic systems.
Flights to, from or connecting through British airports, including London’s Heathrow (LHR), were delayed or cancelled due to the volcanic activity in Iceland (see below for SA-affected flights).
Media reports state that the cloud of ash has affected airports in Norway, Denmark, Sweden and Ireland. There was also major disruption in Belgium, France, Finland, Germany and The Netherlands.
Further disruption is likely as a second eruption has occurred closer to Finland and Russia. The volcano is said to be still erupting and forecasters believe the cloud could take a number of days to disperse.
“It is very variable how long these eruptions last. Anywhere from a few days to over a year,” Magnus Tumi Gudmundsson, a professor of geophysics and civil protection adviser in Iceland, told the AFP news agency. “Judging from the intensity of this one, it could last a long time,” he added.
The movement of the plume, which has been drifting eastwards, is being monitored by Met Office, NATS, Eurocontrol and neighbouring countries.
British Airways spokesperson, Stephen Forbes, affirmed that flights scheduled to leave Heathrow on Thursday (April 15) night had been cancelled. As a result, the outbound flight, scheduled to depart South Africa tonight, has also been cancelled as there are no aircraft to transport passengers to the UK.
South African Airways cancelled its flights to and from London scheduled for departure on April 15. The following SAA flights scheduled to have departed today have been cancelled:
SA234 Johannesburg to London
SA235 London to Johannesburg
SA220 Cape Town to London
SA221 London to Cape Town
All other SAA’s international flights other than London are currently operating as normal.
Meanwhile Virgin Atlantic advises its flights have been cancelled:
VS601 15 Apr London Heathrow/Johannesburg
VS602 16 Apr Johannesburg/London Heathrow
"We are asking agents to advise their passengers travelling on any of these flights not to travel to the airport but rather check the website for updates and advise on what options are available (www.virginatlantic.com)," says marketing manager Caren Parkinson.
Lufthansa spokesperson, Karin Duncker, affirms the airports of Amsterdam and Brussels are also closed as they have reached capacity as a result of diverted aircraft landing at these airports. "For this reason Lufthansa has cancelled all flights to and from Brussels and Amsterdam. Delays and increased flight cancellations of Lufthansa aircraft to the affected areas have occurred. Passengers are currently being rerouted without charge or if preferred are receiving a full refund.
"Volcanic ash represents a significant safety threat to aircraft. The ash, which consists of pulverised rock and glass created by the eruptions, can damage the engines, causing them to shut down if an aircraft flies through the plume. Ash can also be sucked into the cabin itself, contaminating the passengers' environment as well as damaging the plane's electronic systems.
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
FURTHER MUDSLIDES THREATEN BRAZIL
OVER 2 000 families have had to be evacuated from at-risk areas as threats of new mudslides loom following the heavy rain and flooding that hit the Brazil last week.
The trolley that ferries tourists up the mountain to the Christ the Redeemer statue has also been closed until further notice as the land around the rail line is unstable at the moment. Tourists are able to reach the statue by car but will have to sacrifice the view that comes with going up on the trolley.
The trolley that ferries tourists up the mountain to the Christ the Redeemer statue has also been closed until further notice as the land around the rail line is unstable at the moment. Tourists are able to reach the statue by car but will have to sacrifice the view that comes with going up on the trolley.
The death toll from floods and mudslides near Brazil's Rio de Janeiro has reached 224, with authorities fearing that it could reach as high as 400 people.
Four bodies were pulled out of the rubble at dawn on Saturday in the Niteroi slum of Morro do Bumba, where up to 200 people are believed to be buried.
Officials said the heavy rain had forced about 50,000 people to leave their homes, either because their homes were damaged or because they were ordered to leave due to fear of fresh landslides.
Four bodies were pulled out of the rubble at dawn on Saturday in the Niteroi slum of Morro do Bumba, where up to 200 people are believed to be buried.
Officials said the heavy rain had forced about 50,000 people to leave their homes, either because their homes were damaged or because they were ordered to leave due to fear of fresh landslides.
YELLOW FEVER POLICY FOR THE REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA
1. YELLOW FEVER POLICY FOR THE REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA
Yellow fever is an infectious vector-borne disease that is caused by a virus transmitted by the bite of an infected mosquito vector such as Aëdes aegypti. South Africa has a risk of introduction of the disease as the mosquito vector exists in the country.
In order to prevent introduction of the disease into the country, South Africa requires a valid yellow fever certificate from all citizens and non-citizens over one year of age travelling from an infected area or having been in transit through infected areas. To assist passengers SAA will be checking the requirements leaving South Africa as they would be required to be in possession of this certificate on the return flight. Passengers making a return booking to or from these countries must be advised that they require a yellow fever vaccination certificate.
List of countries for which a yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for entry into South Africa.
Angola
Argentina
Benin
Bolivia
Brazil
Burkina Faso
Burundi
Cameroon
Central African Republic
Chad
Colombia
Guinea-Bissau
Congo
Côte d’Ivoire
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Ecuador
Equatorial Guinea
Ethiopia
French Guyana
Gabon
Gambia
Ghana
Guinea
Guyana
Kenya
Liberia
Mali
Mauritania
Niger
Nigeria
Panama
Paraguay
Peru
Rwanda
Sao Tome and Principe
Senegal
Sierra Leone
Somalia
Sudan
Suriname
Togo
Trinidad and Tobago
Uganda
United republic of Tanzania
Venezuela
Yellow fever is an infectious vector-borne disease that is caused by a virus transmitted by the bite of an infected mosquito vector such as Aëdes aegypti. South Africa has a risk of introduction of the disease as the mosquito vector exists in the country.
In order to prevent introduction of the disease into the country, South Africa requires a valid yellow fever certificate from all citizens and non-citizens over one year of age travelling from an infected area or having been in transit through infected areas. To assist passengers SAA will be checking the requirements leaving South Africa as they would be required to be in possession of this certificate on the return flight. Passengers making a return booking to or from these countries must be advised that they require a yellow fever vaccination certificate.
List of countries for which a yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for entry into South Africa.
Angola
Argentina
Benin
Bolivia
Brazil
Burkina Faso
Burundi
Cameroon
Central African Republic
Chad
Colombia
Guinea-Bissau
Congo
Côte d’Ivoire
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Ecuador
Equatorial Guinea
Ethiopia
French Guyana
Gabon
Gambia
Ghana
Guinea
Guyana
Kenya
Liberia
Mali
Mauritania
Niger
Nigeria
Panama
Paraguay
Peru
Rwanda
Sao Tome and Principe
Senegal
Sierra Leone
Somalia
Sudan
Suriname
Togo
Trinidad and Tobago
Uganda
United republic of Tanzania
Venezuela
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
SEYCHELLES BAZARS IN MAY 2010
Island : Mahé
Type of Event : Cultural, Eco tourism
Event Dates : 1 - 31 May 2010
Location : Various locations on Mahé
Enjoy a selection of unique locales where you can meet the Seychellois people and experience a taste of island style way of living, accompanied by a serenade of Creole music.
Bazar Labrinn is one of the legendary Bazar where shoppers come to stock up on their supply of vegetables, fruits, and local delicacies and where visitors to our islands can enjoy a unique opportunity to shop for souvenirs and sample traditional snacks and beverages – all within an authentic Seychellois Creole ambiance.
Bazar Ovan provides another excellent opportunity for locals and visitors to mingle and participate in a true celebration of the vibrant Seychellois Creole culture to the rhythms of Creole music which takes place in the pastoral south of the island.
Victoria Bazar is an Authentic and lively ambiance that is reflective of the Seychellois Creole way of life where vendors sell a variety of goods ranging from arts and crafts to exotic culinary delicacies and beverages to the accompaniment of local musicians in an atmosphere that’s strictly Creole
Type of Event : Cultural, Eco tourism
Event Dates : 1 - 31 May 2010
Location : Various locations on Mahé
Enjoy a selection of unique locales where you can meet the Seychellois people and experience a taste of island style way of living, accompanied by a serenade of Creole music.
Bazar Labrinn is one of the legendary Bazar where shoppers come to stock up on their supply of vegetables, fruits, and local delicacies and where visitors to our islands can enjoy a unique opportunity to shop for souvenirs and sample traditional snacks and beverages – all within an authentic Seychellois Creole ambiance.
Bazar Ovan provides another excellent opportunity for locals and visitors to mingle and participate in a true celebration of the vibrant Seychellois Creole culture to the rhythms of Creole music which takes place in the pastoral south of the island.
Victoria Bazar is an Authentic and lively ambiance that is reflective of the Seychellois Creole way of life where vendors sell a variety of goods ranging from arts and crafts to exotic culinary delicacies and beverages to the accompaniment of local musicians in an atmosphere that’s strictly Creole
UPDATES ON BANGKOK - 13 APRIL 2010
Red Shirt protesters have been demonstrating in Bangkok since 12 March, calling for the Prime Minister to dissolve Parliament and call a fresh election.
Two rounds of talks failed to find a solution, however, prior to last weekend the situation had been under and free of major disturbance. Regrettably, on Saturday night things turned violent.
Yesterday and today returned to being quiet and non-eventful. It is not known what the next step will be for either side although it is hoped we won’t see a repeat confrontation. Therefore, to minimize inconvenience and for peace of mind Tour East is suggesting that clients arriving within the next week who are staying in the Ratchaprasong and Ratchadamnoen areas be offered alternative accommodation in more suitable locations.
Hotels in the Ratchaprasong area and nearby where guests may be affected:
Indra Regent
Baiyoke Suites
Baiyoke Sky
Arnoma
Bangkok City Siam
White Lodge
Intercontinental
Holiday Inn Bangkok
Erawan Grand Hyatt
Four Seasons
Renaissance
Novotel Siam Square
Hotels in the Ratchadamnoen area and nearby where guests may be affected:
Royal
Buddy Lodge
Royal Princess Larn Luang
Alternative hotels:
Holiday Inn Silom
Amari Atrium
Narai
Siam @ Siam
Sofitel Silom
Montien Bangkok
Shangri-la Bangkok
Two rounds of talks failed to find a solution, however, prior to last weekend the situation had been under and free of major disturbance. Regrettably, on Saturday night things turned violent.
Yesterday and today returned to being quiet and non-eventful. It is not known what the next step will be for either side although it is hoped we won’t see a repeat confrontation. Therefore, to minimize inconvenience and for peace of mind Tour East is suggesting that clients arriving within the next week who are staying in the Ratchaprasong and Ratchadamnoen areas be offered alternative accommodation in more suitable locations.
Hotels in the Ratchaprasong area and nearby where guests may be affected:
Indra Regent
Baiyoke Suites
Baiyoke Sky
Arnoma
Bangkok City Siam
White Lodge
Intercontinental
Holiday Inn Bangkok
Erawan Grand Hyatt
Four Seasons
Renaissance
Novotel Siam Square
Hotels in the Ratchadamnoen area and nearby where guests may be affected:
Royal
Buddy Lodge
Royal Princess Larn Luang
Alternative hotels:
Holiday Inn Silom
Amari Atrium
Narai
Siam @ Siam
Sofitel Silom
Montien Bangkok
Shangri-la Bangkok
Friday, April 9, 2010
NORTH ISLAND SEYCHELLES ENVIRONMENTAL UPDATE
Sighting: North Island environmental activities
Location: North Island, Seychelles
Date: March 2010
Observer: Linda van Herck
Photographer: Linda Wambach
The rehabilitation of an island and its ongoing sustainable environmental practice is a full-time challenge.
Location: North Island, Seychelles
Date: March 2010
Observer: Linda van Herck
Photographer: Linda Wambach
The rehabilitation of an island and its ongoing sustainable environmental practice is a full-time challenge.
This year, the rehabilitation of North Island's vegetation is continuing as before. Recent rainfall prompted a hasty reaction to plant as many endemic seedlings as possible on the glacis (granite mountain) areas of the island ... a monster task.
Members of the Environmental Team carried quantities of seedlings and of course various pieces of equipment up to the highest points of the island and planted out a number of species of seedlings including an indigenous Euphorbia.
One of the primary challenges about being on a sensitive island ecosystem is the waste generated by the ecotourism operation and what to do with it. Of course we cannot simply transfer our problem to Mahe, hence our focus on raising staff awareness.
A new waste compactor has been implemented to reduce the volume of non-organic waste that is transferred off the island for recycling.
This new piece of equipment is making our waste management far more efficient and has additionally given us an opportunity for awareness raising amongst the staff on the volumes of waste generated unless managed appropriately.
Members of the Environmental Team carried quantities of seedlings and of course various pieces of equipment up to the highest points of the island and planted out a number of species of seedlings including an indigenous Euphorbia.
One of the primary challenges about being on a sensitive island ecosystem is the waste generated by the ecotourism operation and what to do with it. Of course we cannot simply transfer our problem to Mahe, hence our focus on raising staff awareness.
A new waste compactor has been implemented to reduce the volume of non-organic waste that is transferred off the island for recycling.
This new piece of equipment is making our waste management far more efficient and has additionally given us an opportunity for awareness raising amongst the staff on the volumes of waste generated unless managed appropriately.
MADAGASCAR OFFERS FREE VISAS
MADAGASCAR has announced that it will extend its offer of free visas to visitors who are not staying in the country for longer than 30 days.The promotion will now continue until the end of December and is valid for all visas acquired on entry at an airport.
GERMAN SOCCER TEAM TO ARRIVE IN STYLE
LUFTHANSA’s A380 will celebrate its first long-haul flight in style when it flies the German soccer team to Johannesburg.
The A380, flight number LH2010, departs Frankfurt at 20h30 on June 6, arriving in Johannesburg the next day at 08h15.In addition to the team, DFB trainers and assistants and around 150 soccer fans will also be on the flight.
The fans will attend the send-off for the team in the business lounge at the flight departure gate and take part in a talk session prior to the flight. They will also be presented with an exclusive Lufthansa World Cup fan kit.
The A380, flight number LH2010, departs Frankfurt at 20h30 on June 6, arriving in Johannesburg the next day at 08h15.In addition to the team, DFB trainers and assistants and around 150 soccer fans will also be on the flight.
The fans will attend the send-off for the team in the business lounge at the flight departure gate and take part in a talk session prior to the flight. They will also be presented with an exclusive Lufthansa World Cup fan kit.
TOURISTS BANNED FROM TOYOKO TUNA AUCTIONS
Tokyo’s Metropolitan Government has banned tourists from the city’s fish market for a month after complaints from traders their presence was hampering business.
According to a BBC report, the morning tuna auction as turned the Tsukiji fish market into one of the Japan’s most popular tourist attractions, with as many as 500 people gathering for each sale. The report stated drunken tourists often visit the early- Morning auction straight after leaving the city’s nightclubs. Tensions between tourists and fish workers have also accumulated with a growing number of complaints about visitors getting in the way of workers, taking photographs and touching fish products.
Guards will be deployed at the entrance of the tuna auction inside the market in order to enforce the ban, while hotels, embassies and travel agencies will also be informed in a bid to deter visitors from trying to gain entry.
"We have decided on a total ban as visitors are taking pictures with flash and touching tuna, which gets in the way of bidding," said Akiko Ueyama, a spokeswoman for the Tokyo Metropolitan Government.
"The market is not a visitor attraction but a place for fish bidding. We are also considering if we should continue it indefinitely." With its rows of unidentifiable maritime creatures, hundreds of bustling fish industry workers and jet-lag friendly pre-dawn start, the fish market has become one of the city's biggest unofficial attractions.
Along with Asakusa, home to Tokyo's oldest Buddhist temple, and the neon lights of the electric stores of Akihabara, the fish market is one of the three most popular tourist spots in the city, according to officials. Fuelled by an international sushi boom and gaining popularity by word of mouth among travellers, the daily tuna auction is a highlight of a visit to the working fish market, along with eating a fresh sushi breakfast in one of a string of small, informal restaurants on the fringes of the market.
According to a BBC report, the morning tuna auction as turned the Tsukiji fish market into one of the Japan’s most popular tourist attractions, with as many as 500 people gathering for each sale. The report stated drunken tourists often visit the early- Morning auction straight after leaving the city’s nightclubs. Tensions between tourists and fish workers have also accumulated with a growing number of complaints about visitors getting in the way of workers, taking photographs and touching fish products.
Guards will be deployed at the entrance of the tuna auction inside the market in order to enforce the ban, while hotels, embassies and travel agencies will also be informed in a bid to deter visitors from trying to gain entry.
"We have decided on a total ban as visitors are taking pictures with flash and touching tuna, which gets in the way of bidding," said Akiko Ueyama, a spokeswoman for the Tokyo Metropolitan Government.
"The market is not a visitor attraction but a place for fish bidding. We are also considering if we should continue it indefinitely." With its rows of unidentifiable maritime creatures, hundreds of bustling fish industry workers and jet-lag friendly pre-dawn start, the fish market has become one of the city's biggest unofficial attractions.
Along with Asakusa, home to Tokyo's oldest Buddhist temple, and the neon lights of the electric stores of Akihabara, the fish market is one of the three most popular tourist spots in the city, according to officials. Fuelled by an international sushi boom and gaining popularity by word of mouth among travellers, the daily tuna auction is a highlight of a visit to the working fish market, along with eating a fresh sushi breakfast in one of a string of small, informal restaurants on the fringes of the market.
UPDATES ON BANGKOK - 08 APRIL 2010
Thai Government declared State of Emergency in the evening of Wednesday 7th April. This was due to a brief attempt of the anti-government protestors “Red Shirts” entry to the parliament compound.
Prime Minister Abhisit emphasized that the use of the Emergency Decree is intended to enable the Government to carry out the afore-mentioned tasks more efficiently. There is no intention of using the law to suppress or harm people, particularly innocent ones. The Government’s aim is to restore normalcy and ensure the sanctity of the law, and all actions to be taken will be in accordance with the law and international standards.
Areas covered:
The emergency rule covers Bangkok, Nonthaburi, Samut Prakan, Ayutthaya, Pathum Thani, and Nakhon Pathom.
What it means:
In declaring the severe emergency situation, certain regulations and directives have been issued in accordance with the relevant law. It must be emphasized that in general the measures taken under these regulations and directives do not affect the normal way of life of people or their activities, nor do they affect foreigners residing in or visiting Thailand. To travel to all other parts of the kingdom has not been affected. Tourism activities in all other areas continue as normal.
Main points in the Declaration:
1. Limit of gathering for political purpose.
2. Limit of travel to and out of certain areas.
3. Limit of propaganda and news which may cause fear or altered information to the public.
4. Limit of movement to certain areas.
Note to tourists and foreigners:
For tourists visiting the Kingdom, it should be stressed that foreigners have not been targeted in the on-going political conflict. However, foreigners are advised to be vigilant, and avoid areas where crowds may gather.
Prime Minister Abhisit emphasized that the use of the Emergency Decree is intended to enable the Government to carry out the afore-mentioned tasks more efficiently. There is no intention of using the law to suppress or harm people, particularly innocent ones. The Government’s aim is to restore normalcy and ensure the sanctity of the law, and all actions to be taken will be in accordance with the law and international standards.
Areas covered:
The emergency rule covers Bangkok, Nonthaburi, Samut Prakan, Ayutthaya, Pathum Thani, and Nakhon Pathom.
What it means:
In declaring the severe emergency situation, certain regulations and directives have been issued in accordance with the relevant law. It must be emphasized that in general the measures taken under these regulations and directives do not affect the normal way of life of people or their activities, nor do they affect foreigners residing in or visiting Thailand. To travel to all other parts of the kingdom has not been affected. Tourism activities in all other areas continue as normal.
Main points in the Declaration:
1. Limit of gathering for political purpose.
2. Limit of travel to and out of certain areas.
3. Limit of propaganda and news which may cause fear or altered information to the public.
4. Limit of movement to certain areas.
Note to tourists and foreigners:
For tourists visiting the Kingdom, it should be stressed that foreigners have not been targeted in the on-going political conflict. However, foreigners are advised to be vigilant, and avoid areas where crowds may gather.
2010 FIFA WORLD CUP GAMES VIEWED AT SEA
To ensure their guests won’t miss a minute of the action while on holiday, Azamara Club Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, and Royal Caribbean International have obtained rights to air all games of the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa while at sea in international waters on every ship across the three fleets.
Guests sailing with any of the three cruise lines any time during the entire competition – taking place from 11 June to 11 July 2010 – will be able to watch games in the comfort of their staterooms and in designated onboard lounges.* Football fans can combine a memorable Azamara Club Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, and Royal Caribbean International holiday and still cheer on their team in special onboard programmes that include themed activities, food and beverages.
On some ships, guests can also participate in onboard tournaments, workshops and other special 2010 FIFA World Cup-themed activities.
*Games featured for public viewing will vary by ship itinerary, time zone and demographics.
Guests sailing with any of the three cruise lines any time during the entire competition – taking place from 11 June to 11 July 2010 – will be able to watch games in the comfort of their staterooms and in designated onboard lounges.* Football fans can combine a memorable Azamara Club Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, and Royal Caribbean International holiday and still cheer on their team in special onboard programmes that include themed activities, food and beverages.
On some ships, guests can also participate in onboard tournaments, workshops and other special 2010 FIFA World Cup-themed activities.
*Games featured for public viewing will vary by ship itinerary, time zone and demographics.
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