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Booking a summer holiday deal? Beware ‘drip pricing’ and other tactics to make you pay more than you planned

<a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/jeannie-marie-paterson-6367">Jeannie Marie Paterson</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/the-university-of-melbourne-722">The University of Melbourne</a> Have you ever spotted what looked like a great deal on a website, added it to your “basket” and proceeded to checkout – only to find extra fees added on at the last minute? It’s frustratingly common when making airline, hotel and many other kinds of bookings to see an advertised price get ratcheted up at checkout with additional fees – perhaps “shipping insurance”, “resort fees” or just “taxes”. The practice is known as “<a href="https://www.accc.gov.au/consumers/pricing/price-displays">drip pricing</a>” and it can <a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/WH-Junk-Fees-Guide-for-States.pdf">distort</a> consumer decision-making and affect competition. Nonetheless, there is no specific ban on this conduct in Australia. Some companies have, however, effectively been prosecuted for it under the Australian Consumer Law, which contains some strict rules about misleading consumers through advertising. Many of us have already begun booking flights, hotels and more as we head into the summer holiday season. Here’s what the law says about companies changing prices in the lead-up to checkout, and how you can protect yourself as a consumer. <h2>What’s wrong with drip pricing?</h2> The tactic that underpins drip pricing is to draw a customer in with an attractive “headline” price but then add in other fees as the customer approaches the checkout. It’s reasonable to ask whether there’s anything wrong with this practice: after all, the customer still sees the final price at checkout. Why might that be seen as misleading conduct under Australian Consumer Law? The reasons lie in views about consumer buying behaviour and the nature of the statutory prohibition. Typically, the closer a consumer gets to a sale, the less likely they are to pull out or even fully notice any additional fees. They may then end up paying more than they intended and also have lost the opportunity to deal with other suppliers of the same product at a better price. In the relevant section of Australian Consumer Law, there’s no requirement of an intention to mislead. It’s also not necessarily relevant that the true pricing situation is eventually revealed to the consumer or that it’s in the “fine print”. Thus, in the eyes of the law, it can be enough that consumers were enticed by an attractive headline price. <h2>Price surprises</h2> This legal position is well illustrated by a <a href="https://www8.austlii.edu.au/cgi-bin/viewdoc/au/cases/cth/HCA/2013/54.html">case</a> settled by the High Court in 2013, after the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) took on telecom provider TPG Internet in <a href="https://www.mondaq.com/australia/advertising-marketing-branding/282802/advertising-and-the-acl-fine-print-couldnt-save-tpg-internet-in-the-high-court">2010</a>, alleging misleading conduct. In this case, TPG had been advertising broadband internet services for $29.99 per month. But on reading the fine print, you’d have discovered this deal was only available with a landline service costing an additional $30 per month. The case moved up through Australia’s court system, but ultimately, the High Court majority held that the telco had engaged in misleading conduct. The High Court recognised that the very point of advertising is to draw consumers into “the marketing web”. It is therefore not enough to disclose the true (higher) price only at the point the transaction is concluded. TPG was fined $2 million in this case. Since then, the maximum penalties have increased, now the higher of: <ul> <li>$50 million</li> <li>three times the value obtained from the contravention, or (if the benefit can not be determined)</li> <li>30% of the business’s adjusted turnover during the breach period.</li> </ul> <h2>Dynamic pricing</h2> Other pricing complaints have been in the news recently, including concerns about point-of-sale dynamic pricing. Basically, this means using an algorithm that adjusts ticket prices in response to demand, as consumers wait in a virtual purchasing queue. Recent media reporting has centred on <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-10-14/ticketmaster-live-nation-dynamic-pricing-tickets-class-action/104469646">concerns</a> about the use of point-of-sale dynamic pricing in the events ticketing industry. A form of dynamic pricing is used by hotels and airlines. They increase prices seasonally and according to demand. But these “dynamic” prices are clearly visible to consumers as they start looking for a deal. Some bodies even publish helpful tables of likely prices at different times. The kind of dynamic pricing that happens at the very point consumers are waiting to buy is very different and arguably creates an “unfair surprise”. Whether these kinds of practices also fall within the category of misleading conduct remains to be seen. But it is arguable that consumers could reasonably expect the real-time movement of prices to be disclosed upfront. Earlier this year, the government announced <a href="https://theconversation.com/albanese-government-promises-to-ban-dodgy-trading-practices-234142">plans</a> to address both drip pricing and dynamic pricing as part of a broader ban on unfair trading practices. <h2>What can consumers do?</h2> While all this law reform and litigation is playing out, here are some things you can do to avoid pricing shock. 1. Slow down. One of the strategies that online markets often rely on is “<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2024/oct/12/accc-suing-coles-woolworths-pricing-strategies-allegations">scarcity signalling</a>” – those clocks or numbers you see counting down as you move through a website. The very purpose of these is to make a consumer rush – which can mean failing to notice those additional fees that may make the buy not a good deal. 2. Take screen shots as you progress. Remember what it is you thought you were getting. Doing this also provides a basis for lodging a complaint if the headline and actual price don’t match up. 3. Check. Take a close look at the final bill before pressing pay. 4. Report. Tell your local Fair Trading Office or the ACCC if the advertised deal and the final price don’t meet up. A recent action taken by the ACCC against <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2024/sep/23/accc-suing-coles-woolworths-discounts-misleading">Woolworths and Coles</a> alleging “illusory” discounts was launched because of consumer tip-offs.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/244825/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/jeannie-marie-paterson-6367">Jeannie Marie Paterson</a>, Professor of Law, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/the-university-of-melbourne-722">The University of Melbourne</a> Image credits: Shutterstock This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/booking-a-summer-holiday-deal-beware-drip-pricing-and-other-tactics-to-make-you-pay-more-than-you-planned-244825">original article</a>.

Travel Trouble

Flight attendant reveals best tips for end-of-year travelling

A flight attendant has shared her holy grail tips for surviving the ups and downs of holiday travelling, and how to ensure your travel days are a breeze. Florida-based flight attendant Hunter Smith-Lihas, who works as a flight attendant on a major US airline, and veteran Australian flight-attendant-turned-aviation-researcher Liz Simmons, shared their tips, tricks and secrets with <a href="https://edition.cnn.com/travel/flight-attendants-secrets-surviving-holiday-travel/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">CNN Travel</a> ahead of the busy holiday season, delving into their five top tips if you’re jet-setting around Christmas time. Give yourself an extra day Flying at the last minute is risky business, especially if you’re travelling for a special pre-booked event. Smith-Lihas advises travellers to "give yourself at least one buffer day in between your travel and the event," just in case you encounter delays or issues at the airport. Whether you're travelling in the northern or southern hemisphere, there's a potential for storms and weather delays, which can cause cancellations. If you've got a buffer day, a cancelled flight doesn't automatically equal cancelled Christmas, as Smith-Lihas said, "You at least still have that entire day to get rebooked on another flight." Ensure you have a buffer at your lay-over stop With this same idea in mind, Smith-Lihas recommends travellers give themselves at least 90 minutes between connecting flights. While the idea of sitting around in the airport waiting isn't appealing, missing your connecting flight is a much worse outcome. "I see a lot of people who book their layover flight connection times with less than 45 minutes," says Smith-Lihas. "That is not enough time." If your first flight is delayed, you can easily end up missing the second, says Smith-Lihas "especially if you're connecting in a foreign country and you have to go through customs and immigration." Leaving more time in between your connecting flights will also ensure your luggage makes it off your first plane and onto the second, making sure your Christmas outfits and presents arrive at your final destination. Opt for the first fight of the day While it might be tempting to book an evening flight to give yourself the whole day for last-minute travel preparation, Simmons and Smith-Lihas both recommend getting the first flight of the day, if possible. "If you're trying to dodge any delays, flying at the beginning of the day is beneficial, because any delays or cancellations will roll on throughout the day," explains Simmons. "And if the flight is cancelled, you at least still have that entire day to get rebooked on another flight," adds Smith-Lihas. Don’t overdo the alcohol In the spirit of the holidays, it may be tempting to partake in a few glasses of wine on your flight while on your way to holiday celebrations. However, Simmons advises to limit your boozy beverages, as you don’t want to arrive at your destination hungover. "Always keep in mind how you'll feel at the other end," says Simmons. "The real party will start at your destination, so resting and making sure that you're in your best possible state when you arrive for that party is so important." Instead, Simmons champions staying hydrated with water and herbal teas. Meanwhile Smith-Lihas said passengers should never be afraid to ask flight attendants for more water, saying, "The cabin air can be very dry. It's easy to become dehydrated on a plane." Remember to be kind Above all else, Simmons says keeping "the message of the holiday season" in front of your mind is key for surviving stressful holiday travel. "Small gestures of goodwill are always so appreciated and certainly do not go unnoticed, but sometimes the best gift is patience and understanding and a smile and kindness." "A lot is happening in the world at the moment, and there's a lot of unease around, there's a lot of uncertainty for some people, and not everybody has a family to go to during the holidays," she says. "So just keep in mind how powerful kindness is. Being kind and smiling, the impact that could have on a stranger's day, on their mood… It's so special, and it's something that we really don't harness. Maybe we don't realise how much power we have." Image credits: Shutterstock

Travel Tips

Pilot explains why plane windows are rounded

A pilot has revealed why plane windows are the unique shape that we see today, sharing a glimpse into the world of airplane design and engineering. American Airlines pilot Captain Steve, who regularly makes TikTok videos on the marvel of flying, shared the reason why plane windows today are slightly rounded instead of square, revealing why this design became the norm. "Some of the airliners were designed with square windows and over in Europe as airplanes started to climb higher and require more pressurisation, they discovered a problem," he shared in a clip that has since been viewed over two million times. Following a series of inflight disasters caused by their rectangular counterparts, the window designs had to be changed, as Captain Steve said, “The airplanes literally came apart.” He added that "they lost a few airplanes in midair" because the square windows created "a hairline crack" right in the edge, and the stress on the airframe caused by the pressurisation was simply too much. As a result, engineers decided to round the windows' frames so they wouldn't break under the strain and they've "never had a problem since," according to the pilot. The video was flooded with comments by curious passengers, with one person writing, “I have never thought about this but it makes so much sense! Captain Steve is teaching us yet again.” Image credits: Shutterstock

Travel Tips

Readers response: What's one thing you must do when visiting Australia?

We asked our readers what travellers shouldn't miss when they head to Australia. Here's what they said. Jim Bell - The one thing you must do is to take a couple months there. We were there for 3 weeks and it wasn't nearly long enough to see and do everything we wanted to. Lorraine James - Land in Brisbane and take a cruise ship to Tasmania. Princess does a cruise stopping in Sydney, Bega, a country town on the coast and then of course Port Arthur old penal settlement then Hobart ,Tasmania. Get a taste of Australia. Deedee Cullum - If you’re in a major city then catch a train for the day. Eg, Sydney to Blue Mountains or Melbourne to Dandenongs. That way you’ll see some bush without the bother of driving. Anne Hare - Go see Uluru in the Northern Territory. It's a long way from the coast but it will astound you. Suzanne Maree Saxelby - Remember to visit the outback. It has a beauty that the coastline doesn't have. Janette Mitchell - Take the XPT train from Sydney to Coffs Harbour. So much beautiful scenery & Coffs Harbour is a great place to stay. Mattie Smith - Don't just stick to the coast! Australia has so much to offer. Avis Tolcher - Visit the Whitsundays. So beautiful. Judith Turpin - Wander through the Daintree on foot. Swim in a deep fresh water hole. Take your children on a guided night walk through the forest. Magic! Image credits: Shutterstock

Domestic Travel

Sixteen people missing after tourist yacht sinks

Egyptian officials have confirmed sixteen people are missing after a tourist yacht capsized in the Red Sea after being struck by strong waves. The governor of the Red Sea region, Amr Hanafy, said rescuers saved 28 people from the sinking vessel south of the coastal town of Marsa Alam, and some were airlifted to receive medical treatment. The Egyptian Navy warship El Fateh and military aircraft have intensified their efforts to locate the missing, with rescue teams working around the clock. A total of 44 people were on board the yacht, including 13 Egyptians, and 31 foreign nationals from the United States, Germany, United Kingdom, Poland, Belgium, Switzerland, Finland, China, Slovakia, Spain and Ireland. The governor confirmed that 16 people are still missing, including four Egyptians and 12 foreign tourists. The boat had no technical issues, while passengers onboard said the reason behind the sinking was a strong wave that hit the boat, causing it to capsize. The governorate received a report shortly before dawn on Monday of a distress call made from the yacht, which had left Marsa Alam for a five-day journey. The Egyptian Meteorological Authority on Saturday warned about turbulence and high waves on the Red Sea and advised against maritime activity for Sunday and Monday. The boat is the second vessel to sink in the area this year. Image credits: Facebook

Travel Trouble

Foreign victims killed in mass methanol poisoning identified

The victims of the mass methanol poisoning in Laos have been identified, with the death toll now rising to six. Danish women Anne-Sofie Orkild Coyman, 20, Freja Vennervald Sorensen, 21, and American man James Louis Hutson, 57, were among those who died after a group of backpackers consumed alcoholic drinks spiked with methanol in the party town of Vang Vieng. Bianca Jones and Holly Bowles, both 19, had already been named as two Melbourne teenagers who lost their lives last week while on their gap year, along with British woman Simone White, 28. Ms Jones and Ms Bowles were staying at Nana Backpackers Hostel, which has been closed since November 14th, just days after the incident occurred. It is understood that the two Danish and American victims were also staying at Nana Backpackers Hostel. Ms Coyman and Ms Sorensen were reportedly found unconscious on the bathroom floor on November 13th after they had been out drinking the night before. Mr Hutson was reportedly found unconscious in his bed on November 13th after staff noticed he had not come out of his room. All three tourists died in the following days in hospital. Dr Yaher, who first treated Ms Bowles in Vang Vieng, claimed she went from a state of confusion to a coma in just half an hour after consuming the methanol-laced beverage. The doctor told The Times she was confused and fatigued, and didn’t know what had happened when she arrived at his small one-storey hospital at 2am. “We treated her symptomatically,” he told the publication. “We put her on an IV drip and gave her vitamins. But after 30 minutes she had a seizure and went into a coma. I was so surprised. We gave her CPR, because she had difficulty breathing, and we intubated her and referred her to Vientiane.” The Laos government released a statement on Saturday expressing sympathy and condolences to the families of the tourists who died, saying an investigation was underway and promised to “bring the perpetrators to justice according to the law”. Image credits: Facebook

Travel Trouble

Holiday budgeting tips for over-60s: Expert advice for a stress-free season

<div> The festive season is a time for joy, but it can sometimes also bring a little extra financial stress. With the rising cost of essentials, many Aussies in retirement might be feeling the pinch. And it’s not your imagination – recent <a title="https://protect.checkpoint.com/v2/___https:/nam02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.superannuation.asn.au%2Fmedia-release%2Frising-insurance-premiums-add-strain-to-retirees-finances-says-super-peak-body%2F*23%3A~%3Atext%3DThe%2520latest%2520figures%2520from%2520ASFA%2Cover%2520the%2520last%252012%2520months.&data=05%7C02%7Cdardisa%40we-worldwide.com%7C3306a1dfb9de4e30dd3b08dcfecff5e5%7C3ed60ab455674971a5341a5f0f7cc7f5%7C0%7C0%7C638665416381860501%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=3ePPI8b1SEXOATgcY6vYWJRi8gBzZHv0jM1dgqkIoUI%3D&reserved=0___.YzJ1OndlY29tbXVuaWNhdGlvbnM6YzpvOmMyMDk4YTI2ZGE5OWUzY2FhZWQ2Nzc5ZTg1YWM0OGJiOjY6YjM1NDo4YTdiNGQ5MTcwZjBhYzgwNzI4ZDVmYTlhNTA0OWVhYThkZTU0NWJhN2FhZDgzZGQ2MGQ1ZjZiYWU5MTc3MGI1OnA6VDpG" href="https://protect.checkpoint.com/v2/___https:/nam02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.superannuation.asn.au%2Fmedia-release%2Frising-insurance-premiums-add-strain-to-retirees-finances-says-super-peak-body%2F*23%3A~%3Atext%3DThe%2520latest%2520figures%2520from%2520ASFA%2Cover%2520the%2520last%252012%2520months.&data=05%7C02%7Cdardisa%40we-worldwide.com%7C3306a1dfb9de4e30dd3b08dcfecff5e5%7C3ed60ab455674971a5341a5f0f7cc7f5%7C0%7C0%7C638665416381860501%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=3ePPI8b1SEXOATgcY6vYWJRi8gBzZHv0jM1dgqkIoUI%3D&reserved=0___.YzJ1OndlY29tbXVuaWNhdGlvbnM6YzpvOmMyMDk4YTI2ZGE5OWUzY2FhZWQ2Nzc5ZTg1YWM0OGJiOjY6YjM1NDo4YTdiNGQ5MTcwZjBhYzgwNzI4ZDVmYTlhNTA0OWVhYThkZTU0NWJhN2FhZDgzZGQ2MGQ1ZjZiYWU5MTc3MGI1OnA6VDpG" data-auth="Verified" data-outlook-id="1a0a0a08-2e36-4601-a0a3-f9c8bb379afe">data</a> from the Association of Superannuation Funds of Australia (ASFA) reveals that the cost of maintaining a comfortable retirement has increased by 3.7% in the last year. For those in retirement, managing holiday spending can help ensure a stress-free festive season. </div> <div> Toby Perkins, a Certified Financial Planner® at industry superfund NGS Super, shares his helpful tips to ensure retirees manage their budgets during the holidays. </div> 1. Avoid personal debt <div> Credit cards and overdrafts may seem like quick solutions, but they often lead to high-interest debt. "If you need extra funds for the festive season, it might be worth considering options like your superannuation income stream instead," advises Toby. Avoiding extra debt may help you to maintain your financial stability in the long run and help set you up for a stress-free Christmas next year. </div> 2. Plan ahead: Budget for the entire year <div> Although it may be too late to adjust your budget for this holiday season, now is a good time to start planning for next Christmas. "Incorporating holiday spending into an annual budget can prevent financial strain in December," Toby suggests. By tracking your expenses throughout the year, you can identify potential savings and plan for any extra costs, such as gifts and travel. </div> 3. Review government entitlements <div> It’s important for you to ensure you are receiving the correct government entitlements. "If you’re receiving the Age Pension, make sure all your details are up to date," Toby advises. Even if you're not eligible for the Age Pension, you may qualify for the Commonwealth Seniors Health Card or state-based Seniors Cards, which can help reduce costs on health care, transport, and other services. For more information, visit <a title="https://protect.checkpoint.com/v2/___https:/www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/most-useful-information-for-retirement-years___.YzJ1OndlY29tbXVuaWNhdGlvbnM6YzpvOmMyMDk4YTI2ZGE5OWUzY2FhZWQ2Nzc5ZTg1YWM0OGJiOjY6Y2YwMTo3YWJkZWYyYTY5NjAwZTQ5YjczNWQwMGY2ZjZmN2RhNzY5MzJjYWJkMmYyNWM5ZTkzODg4NTJlZDc3MmIwZGI1OnA6VDpG" href="https://protect.checkpoint.com/v2/___https:/www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/most-useful-information-for-retirement-years___.YzJ1OndlY29tbXVuaWNhdGlvbnM6YzpvOmMyMDk4YTI2ZGE5OWUzY2FhZWQ2Nzc5ZTg1YWM0OGJiOjY6Y2YwMTo3YWJkZWYyYTY5NjAwZTQ5YjczNWQwMGY2ZjZmN2RhNzY5MzJjYWJkMmYyNWM5ZTkzODg4NTJlZDc3MmIwZGI1OnA6VDpG" data-auth="Verified" data-outlook-id="0b03c4dc-e32a-4f0f-adaf-6d20058cd703">the Services Australia website.</a> </div> 4. Stay vigilant about financial security <div> There are two reasons to closely track your spending throughout the holiday season: 1. To ensure you stay within budget, and 2. To ensure you don't fall victim to financial scams. The holiday season can be a prime time for financial scams, so be cautious when making purchases online. </div> 5. Prepare for post-holiday financial health <div> After the holidays, plan to set aside some money for future expenses or to replenish your savings. A bit of post-holiday planning will help you avoid financial stress in the months ahead - and even get you set up for next Christmas. </div> 6. Travel smart: Plan off-peak <div> Travel can be one of the biggest holiday expenses, especially if it coincides with peak Christmas and school holiday periods. Toby recommends traveling outside of these busy times to save money. "Off-peak travel can significantly reduce costs and make your holiday dollar stretch further," he says. Consider planning trips in advance to secure better deals. </div> <div> Planning ahead, managing debt, and reviewing entitlements can help you enjoy the festive season without financial stress. As Toby puts it, "Smart budgeting today helps ensure a more comfortable retirement tomorrow." </div> <div> For those seeking personalised advice, NGS Super’s team of financial planners is here to help guide you to a secure and joyful future. Read the <a title="https://protect.checkpoint.com/v2/r01/___https://protect.checkpoint.com/v2/___https:/www.ngssuper.com.au/files/documents/financial-services-guide.pdf___.YzJ1OndlY29tbXVuaWNhdGlvbnM6YzpvOmMyMDk4YTI2ZGE5OWUzY2FhZWQ2Nzc5ZTg1YWM0OGJiOjY6MDk5ZToxNWJlNDQ0ODUwMWZmYzczYmUzZDY5N2NkNWFmY2M4ZTM0M2I5ZDQyNTI5ZGIwNjdjMDUxZDViY2E1YWRmYWFhOnA6VDpGHYPERLINK___.YzJ1OndlY29tbXVuaWNhdGlvbnM6YzpvOmM0OTdjMzdkZjcxOGIxNDQxYjdiMzQxMzA0NTcyMzc4Ojc6ZDgzMDowMTA3N2IxNTZmN2JhZDAzOTM5MDc4ODZjM2Y4NTUzYTkwNWE4ZDAxYmJhMmIxMTc0OWZjNjhmNmM5ODNlNzYyOmg6VDpG" href="https://protect.checkpoint.com/v2/r01/___https://protect.checkpoint.com/v2/___https:/www.ngssuper.com.au/files/documents/financial-services-guide.pdf___.YzJ1OndlY29tbXVuaWNhdGlvbnM6YzpvOmMyMDk4YTI2ZGE5OWUzY2FhZWQ2Nzc5ZTg1YWM0OGJiOjY6MDk5ZToxNWJlNDQ0ODUwMWZmYzczYmUzZDY5N2NkNWFmY2M4ZTM0M2I5ZDQyNTI5ZGIwNjdjMDUxZDViY2E1YWRmYWFhOnA6VDpGHYPERLINK___.YzJ1OndlY29tbXVuaWNhdGlvbnM6YzpvOmM0OTdjMzdkZjcxOGIxNDQxYjdiMzQxMzA0NTcyMzc4Ojc6ZDgzMDowMTA3N2IxNTZmN2JhZDAzOTM5MDc4ODZjM2Y4NTUzYTkwNWE4ZDAxYmJhMmIxMTc0OWZjNjhmNmM5ODNlNzYyOmg6VDpG" data-auth="Verified" data-outlook-id="c4bb4623-ec0a-4e3a-a747-7bf0d2f5659b">NGS Financial Planning Financial Services Guide</a>. </div> <div> For further information, visit NGS Super’s <a title="https://protect.checkpoint.com/v2/___https:/www.ngssuper.com.au/articles/news/whats-foro-what-can-you-do-about-it___.YzJ1OndlY29tbXVuaWNhdGlvbnM6YzpvOmMyMDk4YTI2ZGE5OWUzY2FhZWQ2Nzc5ZTg1YWM0OGJiOjY6YzlhNDphZGM4Y2Q1YTFlZmQyNjExMGQ4ZDJmYWM3Y2IyOWMxM2FiNjE2MDMwMDc3YjA5ODE5OTY0NjQyYmZkNWE2NGM1OnA6VDpG" href="https://protect.checkpoint.com/v2/___https:/www.ngssuper.com.au/articles/news/whats-foro-what-can-you-do-about-it___.YzJ1OndlY29tbXVuaWNhdGlvbnM6YzpvOmMyMDk4YTI2ZGE5OWUzY2FhZWQ2Nzc5ZTg1YWM0OGJiOjY6YzlhNDphZGM4Y2Q1YTFlZmQyNjExMGQ4ZDJmYWM3Y2IyOWMxM2FiNjE2MDMwMDc3YjA5ODE5OTY0NjQyYmZkNWE2NGM1OnA6VDpG" data-auth="Verified" data-outlook-id="7c65864b-3f33-43bc-9037-cc1e7ca1acc0">website</a>. </div> <div> Toby Perkins is authorised to provide financial advice in Australia and is an Authorised Representative (Number 1002908) of Guideway Financial Services Pty Ltd, AFSL Number 420367. Any advice given in this article is general and does not consider your financial situation, needs or objectives so consider whether it is appropriate for you. Be sure to read the relevant PDS and TMD before deciding whether a financial product is right for you. Image credits: Shutterstock </div>

Travel Tips

Italian village offers $1 homes to Americans upset by US election results

An Italian village in Sardinia, Italy is offering one-euro homes to Americans seeking a new start following the results of the 2024 U.S election that saw Donald Trump being re-elected as president. Ollolai has long been trying to persuade outsiders to move in to revive the community after decades of depopulation. Now, it's selling dilapidated houses for as little as one euro — just over a US dollar or $AU1.60 — to entice Americans to move abroad. Following the November 5 outcome, they have launched a website aimed at potential American expats, offering cheap homes in hopes that those disappointed by the result and seeking a fresh start will snap up one of their empty properties. "Are you worned (sic) out by global politics? Looking to embrace a more balanced lifestyle while securing new opportunities?" the website read. "It's time to start building your European escape in the stunning paradise of Sardinia." Mayor Francesco Columbu told CNN that the website was specifically created to attract American voters in the wake of the presidential elections. The mayor loves the United States and is convinced Americans would be the best people to revive the community. "We just really want, and will focus on, Americans above all," he said. "We can't of course ban people from other countries to apply, but Americans will have a fast-track procedure. We are betting on them to help us revive the village, they are our winning card." The village is offering three tiers of accommodation: Free temporary homes to certain digital nomads, ($1.6) homes in need of renovations, and ready-to-occupy houses for prices up to $160,000. The mayor also set up a special team to guide interested buyers through every step of the process including finding contractors, builders and navigating required paperwork. "Of course, we can't specifically mention the name of one US president who just got elected, but we all know that he's the one from whom many Americans want to get away from now and leave the country," Columbo added. "We have specifically created this website now to meet US post-elections relocation needs. The first edition of our digital nomad scheme which launched last year was already solely for Americans." Photos and plans of available empty properties will soon be uploaded to the website. The website has since received nearly 38,000 requests for information on houses, with most of them coming from the United States In the past century, Ollolai's population has shrunk from 2,250 to 1,300 with only a handful of babies born each year. Over the last few years, this has dropped 1,150 residents. Image: Shutterstock

International Travel

Readers response: What was the worst hotel experience you had?

We asked our readers to share their stories of the worst hotel experience that have endured while on holiday, and the response was overwhelming. Here's what they said. Deedee Cullum - At a 5 star in Beijing. Arrived from the airport after 1am. Let into the room to find it occupied with someone having a bath. Instead of changing our room we waited in the lobby for 1 and 1/2 hours while they changed to the correct room and cleaned ours. The wet towels were neatly folded on the towel rack and the used soap was on the basin. When I turned the bedside light on I got a shock. To be fair management were most apologetic and gave us free dining in their top restaurant for the 4 days we were there. It was a few years ago but never forgotten. Bruce Hopkins - I stopped at a Hotel in Hobart, arrived in the afternoon, checked out the next day, the whole time I stopped there, I never saw anyone on reception or any staff at all. Creepiest hotel I stayed in. Carol Henwood - When we went to have a shower, and the towels disintegrated! The shower had black mould in all the corners. The carpet was so sticky, we kept our shoes on. We slept on top of the bed as the sheets were crumpled and smelly. What a night. Sheila Kell - When my eldest son was about 2 years old we took a holiday to Shute Harbour in QLD and in middle of night we heard lots of scratching so turned on light and sat up in bed and there were hundreds of field mice crawling up walls and back of bed. They apparently were having a plague, but we dressed and left. Couldn't sleep in that motel. Christine Warner - A country pub only option one night. Our room has no lock on the door, and there were gaps in the floorboards so we could see straight down to the bar where it was very noisy. We had already been warned of people breaking in to hotel and motel rooms in that region, so we slept in the car and returned to the room in the morning for a shower. Helen Wilson - In Singapore, they gave us a “free” breakfast while someone rummaged through our belongings and took stuff. Image credits: Shutterstock

Travel Trouble

Hotel booking sites actually make it hard to get cheap deals, but there’s a way around it

<a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/peter-martin-682709">Peter Martin</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/crawford-school-of-public-policy-australian-national-university-3292">Crawford School of Public Policy, Australian National University</a> Booking a place to stay on holidays has become a reflex action. The first thing many of us do is open a site such as <a href="https://www.wotif.com/">Wotif</a>, <a href="https://au.hotels.com/?locale=en_AU">Hotels.com</a> or <a href="https://www.trivago.com.au/">trivago</a> (all of which are these days owned by the US firm <a href="https://www.accc.gov.au/media-release/accc-will-not-oppose-expedia%E2%80%99s-proposed-acquisition-of-wotif">Expedia</a>), or their only big competitor, <a href="https://www.booking.com/">Booking.com</a> from the Netherlands. Checking what rooms are available – anywhere – is wonderfully easy, as is booking, at what usually seems to be the lowest available price. But Australia’s Assistant Competition Minister Andrew Leigh is concerned there might be a reason the price seems to be the lowest available. It might be an <a href="https://ministers.treasury.gov.au/ministers/andrew-leigh-2022/media-releases/supporting-tourism-and-accommodation-providers-set-their">agreement not to compete</a>, or the fear of reprisals against hotel owners who offer better prices. <h2>Agreements to not compete</h2> Leigh has asked the treasury to investigate, and if that’s what it finds, it may be the booking sites have the perverse effect of keeping prices high, especially when the substantial fees they charge hotels are taken into account. For now, the treasury is seeking information. It has set a deadline of <a href="https://treasury.gov.au/consultation/c2022-338978">January 6</a> for hotel operators and booking sites to tell it: <ul> <li> the typical fees charged by online booking platforms </li> <li> the details of any agreements not to compete on price </li> <li> whether hotels that try to compete get ranked lower on booking sites. </li> </ul> What’s likely to come out of it is a ban on so-called price-parity clauses that prevent discounting, or a ban on “algorithmic punishment,” whereby hotels that do discount get pushed way down the rankings on the sites. But in the meantime, there are things we can do to get better prices, and they’ll help more broadly, as I’ll explain. <h2>Flight Centre precedent</h2> <figure class="align-right zoomable"></figure> Back in 2018, in a case that went all the way to the High Court, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) forced <a href="https://www.accc.gov.au/media-release/flight-centre-ordered-to-pay-125-million-in-penalties">Flight Centre</a> to pay a penalty of A$12.5 million for attempting to induce airlines not to undercut it on ticket prices. That the ACCC eventually won the case might be an indication price-parity clauses are already illegal under Australian law. But it’s a difficult law to enforce. This is why the treasury is considering special legislation of the kind in force in France, Austria, Italy and Belgium. The ACCC has known for some time that Expedia and Booking.com have included clauses in their contracts preventing hotels offering the same room for any less than they do, even directly. Rather than take the big two to court, in 2016 the ACCC “reached agreement” with them to delete the clauses that prevented hotels offering better deals <a href="https://www.accc.gov.au/media-release/expedia-and-bookingcom-agree-to-reinvigorate-price-competition-by-amending-contracts-with-australian-hotels">face-to-face</a>. <h2>The concession that conceded little</h2> From then on, hotels were able to offer better deals than the sites over the phone or in person, but not on their own websites. Given we are less and less likely to walk in off the street or even use the phone to book a hotel, it wasn’t much of a concession. Then, in 2019, with the Commission under renewed pressure from hotel owners for another investigation, Expedia (but not Booking.com) reportedly <a href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/business-advice/competition/expedia-allow-hotels-undercut-prices-online/">waived</a> the rest of the clauses, giving hotel owners the apparent freedom to advertise cheaper prices wherever they liked including on their own sites without fear of retribution. Except several appear to fear retribution, and very few seem to have jumped at the opportunity. <h2>Algorithmic punishment</h2> An Expedia spokesman gave an indication of what might be in store when he was quoted as saying a hotel that undercut Expedia might “find itself ranked <a href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/business-advice/competition/expedia-allow-hotels-undercut-prices-online/">below its competitors</a>, just as it would if it had worse reviews or fewer high-quality pictures of its property”. Being ranked at the bottom of a site is much the same as not being ranked at all, something Leigh refers to as “algorithmic punishment”. It’s not at all clear the present law prevents it, which is why Leigh is open to the idea of legislating against it. Although you and I may not often think about what hotels are paying to be booked through sites such as Wotif and Booking.com, and although what’s charged to the hotel isn’t publicised, it appeard to be a large chunk of the cost of providing the room. One figure quoted is <a href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/industries/tourism/online-travel-booking-fed-up-small-businesses-call-accc-action/">20%</a>. Leigh says hotel owners have told him the fees are in the “<a href="https://ministers.treasury.gov.au/ministers/andrew-leigh-2022/transcripts/interview-geraldine-doogue-abc-saturday-extra">double digits</a>”, something he says is quite a lot when you consider the sites don’t need to clean the toilets, change the sheets or help on the front desk. <h2>‘Chokepoint capitalism’</h2> What this seems to mean (the treasury will find out) is almost all bookings are more expensive than they need to be because firms that sit at the “<a href="https://theconversation.com/chokepoint-capitalism-why-well-all-lose-unless-we-stop-amazon-spotify-and-other-platforms-squeezing-cash-from-creators-194069">chokepoint</a>” between buyers and sellers are squeezing sellers. A hotel could always abandon the sites and offer much cheaper prices, but for a while – perhaps forever – it will be much harder to find. In their defence, the operators of the platforms might say they need to get the best offers from hotels in order to make it worthwhile for the operators to invest in their sites, an argument the treasury is inviting them to put. In the meantime, with some hotels reluctant to put their best rates on their websites, but with them perfectly able to offer better rates over the phone, there’s a fairly simple way we can all get a better deal – and help fix the broader problem by weight of numbers. If we look up the best deal wherever we want online, and then phone and ask for a better one (or a better room), we might well find we get it. We might be saving the owner a lot of money. Leigh reckons the more we do ring up, the more the sites might feel pressure to discount their own fees, helping bring prices down even before he starts to think about writing legislation.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/196460/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/peter-martin-682709">Peter Martin</a>, Visiting Fellow, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/crawford-school-of-public-policy-australian-national-university-3292">Crawford School of Public Policy, Australian National University</a> Image credits: Shutterstock This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/hotel-booking-sites-actually-make-it-hard-to-get-cheap-deals-but-theres-a-way-around-it-196460">original article</a>.

Travel Trouble

Research reveals how long it takes Aussies to save for a holiday

Saving up for a holiday can seem like an overwhelming task, but some destinations are easier to save for than others. According to new research by <a href="http://money.com.au/">money.com.au</a>, nearly a third of travellers - or 31 percent - need on average a year to save for a trip, while 29 percent of Aussies save for up to six months before jetting off. For 18 percent of travellers, it takes more than a year to save for a trip, while just 13 percent of Aussies manage to save for a holiday in less than three months. On the flip side, 7 percent of eager travellers decide to skip saving altogether and cover their holiday expenses fully on a credit card, while just 2 percent opt for a personal loan to fund their trips. Money.com.au's Finance Expert, Sean Callery said of the survey, "Our research also shows that travel is the one expense Australians aren't willing to forgo, no matter their financial goals or income level." "Going into debt for a holiday brings additional costs and risks. It's important to have a plan for clearing the debt as quickly as possible." With these saving trends in mind, the experts have crunched the numbers to estimate how long it would take the average Aussie to save for a trip to the most popular overseas holiday destinations. The saving time for each location was calculated based on a 10 per cent savings rate of the average weekly earnings of $1,923.40 (from ABS data). Two of the quickest destinations to save for are China and Thailand, while other destinations the experts say you can save for in around half a year include New Zealand, Vietnam and Singapore. Image credits: Shutterstock

Travel Tips

The five best European Christmas markets

A savvy traveller has shared her top five favourite Christmas markets in Europe, after visiting more than 100 festive markets. Originally from Texas, Helene Sula became enamoured with European festive traditions since moving to Heidelberg, Germany, in 2016. She told <a href="https://www.dailymail.co.uk/travel/article-13982839/100-Christmas-markets-favourite-five-Helene-Sula-Germany-France-UK-Austria.html">MailOnline Travel</a>, “Heidelberg was my first ever Christmas market and I was obsessed. I made it my mission to see as many as possible. The feeling was like being a kid at Christmas all over again. The magic felt real.” Despite her love for her local Christmas market, Helene shared the other four markets that have captured her heart, all while paying homage to the one that kicked off her love affair with Christmas festivities. Cologne, Germany According to Helene, the Christmas market in Cologne is not to be missed. The travel blogger said, “Cologne’s Christmas market near the cathedral is breathtaking. The towering Gothic architecture of the Cologne Cathedral creates the perfect backdrop for the festive lights and stalls.” “The market is expansive, with plenty of food options - make sure to try the Reibekuchen (potato pancakes) and mulled wine. It’s also great for families, with a skating rink and carousel.” Strasbourg, France The keen traveller said France always offers “authenticity” in their Christmas markets. Helene comments, “Known as the Capital of Christmas, Strasbourg is one of the oldest and most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe.” “The entire city is transformed into a festive wonderland, with stunning decorations, multiple market squares, and delicious local treats like tarte flambée and bredele cookies. The charm and authenticity of this market are unmatched.” Heidelberg, Germany Despite travelling all over the continent for Christmas festivities, Helene’s local market of Heidelberg is still one of her favourites. “Heidelberg holds a special place in my heart as it was the first Christmas market I visited after moving to Germany,” comments the traveller. “The market goes along the Hauptstrasse, one of the longest pedestrian streets in Europe! You'll wander through the beautiful historic old town, with the illuminated Heidelberg Castle overlooking the city.” “The ice-skating rink and warm treats like bratwurst make this market feel intimate and magical. Also, get some fries!” Ribeauville, France According to Helene, this historic market offers a step back in time to Christmas of years past. She said, “Ribeauville is a medieval-themed Christmas market, and it's one of the most unique I've ever visited.The town feels like it's straight out of a fairytale, with medieval music, costumes, and performances that transport you back in time.” “It's only open two weekends a year so you have to plan! I also recommend this as a family-friendly one, as it's great for kids!” Vienna, Austria The capital city of Austria is one of the largest in Europe, and is destined to impress anyone who attends. Helene explains, “Vienna’s Christmas markets are elegant and enchanting, with the market at Rathausplatz being my favourite. The backdrop of Vienna’s grand architecture combined with twinkling lights is truly magical.” “Try a Viennese sausage and a cup of punch, and enjoy ice skating at the nearby rink for a full festive experience.” Image credits: Shutterstock

International Travel

Tourist's disrespectful Machu Picchu act slammed

A tourist has been slammed online after she was filmed sprinkling her loved one's ashes at Peru’s Machu Picchu. The clip posted to TikTok by Peruvian tour operator IncaGo Expeditions has been taken down amid fierce backlash, but not before it was reshared on other platforms online. In the video, the woman stood atop one of the 15th-century Inca citadel’s terraces as she scattered the ashes. The footage ended with her taking a bow and embracing another person. Her actions have been slammed online, with one person saying: “may the full weight of the law fall on the person who did this act, there was no respect for Machu Picchu." “What is the need to do it in a universal jewel, such as Machu Picchu?” another commented. The sacred landmark, has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage landmark in Peru, and is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Peruvian cultural officials have also criticised the behaviour and called for greater action in preserving the history of the landmark. T’ika Oregón, a lawyer with the Cusco Commission of Jurists, told local media that “archaeological areas are not repositories of any type of ashes, much less of a deceased person,” reported the Daily Mail. She also claimed that the ceremony could've been a promotional stunt orchestrated by the tour operator. “It must be determined if it is an agency that is dedicating itself to this objective or if it is a person, and according to the level of participation, of seriousness, the maximum penalty will have to be given,” she said. The Ministry of Culture is currently trying to identify the woman and tour agency responsible for the desecration. “Machu Picchu deserves respect and protection from visitors and tourism operators, who are obliged to comply with the provisions contained in the regulations for visiting the Inca city of Machu Picchu,” they said in a statement. Image: TikTok

Travel Trouble

Airlines cancel flights after volcanic eruptions. An aviation expert explains why that’s a good thing

<a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/patrick-murray-2027113">Patrick Murray</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-southern-queensland-1069">University of Southern Queensland</a> At least three airlines <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-11-13/flights-to-and-from-bali-cancelled-due-to-volcanic-ash/104593698">cancelled flights between Australia and Bali</a> this week after a volcano eruption in eastern Indonesia spewed a vast plume of volcanic ash into the air. But while would-be holiday makers are naturally <a href="https://7news.com.au/sunrise/volcanic-eruption-in-indonesia-forces-airlines-to-cancel-flights-to-bali-stranding-frustrated-passengers-c-16732486">upset</a> at having their plans disrupted, it’s worth remembering it’s not safe to fly planes through volcanic ash. So, how do airlines decide it’s not safe to fly when a volcano erupts? And why is volcanic ash so dangerous for aircraft, anyway? <h2>What does volcanic ash do to a plane?</h2> Volcanic ash particles are very, very abrasive. They can cause permanent damage to windscreens in the aircraft and can even make windscreens look opaque – like someone has gone over them with sandpaper. Imagine getting spectacles and scraping them over and over with sandpaper – that’s what you’d see if you were sitting in the cockpit. Volcanic ash can also clog or damage external sensors, leading to erroneous readings, and can infiltrate an aircraft’s ventilation system. This can affect cabin air quality and lead to potential respiratory issues. But the main issue, in fact, is the impact volcanic ash has on engines. A jet engine works by drawing in air, compressing it, mixing it with fuel and igniting it. This creates high-pressure exhaust gases that are expelled backward, which pushes the engine (and the aircraft) forward. The correct balance of fuel and airflow is crucial. When you disrupt airflow, it can cause the engine to stall. Ash particles that get inside the engines will melt and build up, causing disruption of the airflow. This could cause the engine to “flame out” or stall. Volcanic ash has a lot of silica in it, so when it melts it turns into something similar to glass. It won’t melt unless exposed to very high temperatures – but inside a jet engine, you do get very high temperatures. There was a famous incident in 1982 where a <a href="https://theaviationgeekclub.com/the-story-of-british-airways-flight-9-the-boeing-747-that-lost-all-four-engines-due-to-volcanic-ash-yet-it-landed-safely/">British Airways Boeing 747 plane</a> was flying in the vicinity of Indonesia and lost all four engines after it encountered volcanic ash spewing from Java’s Mount Galunggung. Fortunately, the pilot was able to <a href="https://simpleflying.com/gallunggung-glider-the-story-of-british-airways-flight-9/">restart the engines and land safely</a>, although the pilots were unable to see through the front windscreens. <h2>How do airlines decide it’s not safe to fly when a volcano erupts?</h2> The decision is made by each airline’s operational staff. Each airline’s operational team would be looking at the situation in real time today and making the decision based on their risk assessment. Every airline has a process of risk management, which is required by Australia’s Civil Aviation Safety Authority. Different airlines may tackle risk management in slightly different ways; you might have some cancelling flights earlier than others. But, in broad terms, the more sophisticated airlines would come to similar conclusions and they are likely all communicating with each other. Mostly, they make the call based on the extent of the plume – how big the cloud of ash is and where it’s going, bearing in mind that winds vary with altitude. As you get stronger winds with altitude, the ash can drift quite far from the source. There is also a United Nations agency called the <a href="https://www.icao.int/Pages/default.aspx">International Civil Aviation Organization</a>, which issues guidance on volcanic ash hazards. Various meteorological agencies around the world work together and liaise with aviation authorities to spread the word quickly if there is an eruption. For airlines to resume flights, the ash needs to clear and there needs to be a low probability of further eruptions. <h2>Passenger safety is the priority</h2> The underpinning reason behind these flight cancellations is safety. If you lose engines and you can’t see out the window, the risk to passenger safety is obvious. Naturally, people are upset about their holiday plans being held up. But it’s actually in passengers’ best interests to not fly through volcanic ash.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/243576/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/patrick-murray-2027113">Patrick Murray</a>, Emeritus Professor of Aviation, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-southern-queensland-1069">University of Southern Queensland</a> Image credits: Shutterstock This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/airlines-cancel-flights-after-volcanic-eruptions-an-aviation-expert-explains-why-thats-a-good-thing-243576">original article</a>.

Travel Trouble

Readers response: What advice would you give someone visiting Australia?

We asked our readers what advice they would give to someone travelling to Australia, including where tourists need to see and what hidden gems cannot be missed. Here's what they said. Peggy Rice - Respect our rules, the outback needs to be researched, swim between flags, don't swim with crocodiles. It's the best country in the world, let's keep it that way. Also do yourself a favour and put Tasmania on your list of beauty. Kay L Bayly - Number 1 advice! Check distances between desired destinations. It is a much bigger country than most people understand. Michael Pender - Bring a sense of humour. Toni Stewart - You will need a year at least to see all the different areas from desert, scrub, rainforest, cities, beaches, country side fabulous little towns and lots of festivals. Maureen Prince - We don’t have Kangaroos running the streets. Koalas are not in everybody's back yard trees. Whilst we do have snakes you’d be very unfortunate if you were to come across a venomous one. We don’t all go around saying “Good day mate”. Our scenery is incredible. Our food is superb and, best of all, we have good friends who do say “Good day mate”. Tina Shaw - Leave preconceptions at customs. See who we are and you'll have a fantastic time. Dianne Savage - Put Tasmania on your must do list. Margaret Higgs - Use sunscreen, wear a hat, drink lots of fluids. Cheryl Anne - Don't assume you can cover the whole country in 6 weeks. Sarah Hayse-Gregson - Obey the beach culture. The flags, lifesavers are there for a reason. If a sign says, “beach closed” there’s no one to assist you if you get into difficulty. Our lifesavers are volunteers, don’t forget that. They give up their free time to monitor the beaches and are highly trained. Never turn your back to the sea. Ann Lusby - Watch out for drop bears. Image credits: Shutterstock

Domestic Travel

Why planes still have no smoking signs

Have you ever wondered why planes still have dozens of no smoking signs inside an aircraft, even 30 years after a worldwide ban was implemented? A travel expert has answered this age-old question, just weeks after the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) got rid of the off switch for no smoking signs. This means that for all American planes across every US airline, the no smoking signs stay lit throughout the entire time you’re on board, which includes taxing, takeoff, cruising and landing. While it would seem that no smoking signs onboard planes are no longer needed nowadays, they are actually very much needed. “While no smoking signs may seem like an old and outdated practice, they are still a necessity for a few different reasons,” RVshare travel expert Maddi Bourgerie told <a href="https://www.thrillist.com/news/nation/planes-no-smoking-signs-why-expert">Thrillist.</a> Firstly, it’s down to public health and safety, as Ms Bourgerie said, “There are aviation regulations in place that require airlines to maintain a no-smoking policy, which is largely due to the flammability of materials in the cabin.” She added, “the signs reinforce a smoke-free environment for all passengers and crew,” with second-hand smoke being dangerous to those around you in an enclosed space. Ms Bourgerie also explained that having the signs gives the airline some protection from potential lawsuits, with the signs acting as a safety net if a smoking-related incident occurs on board. The travel expert also pointed to a less obvious reason for keeping the no smoking signs, explaining, “Many procedures and protocols in aviation are maintained for consistency and familiarity.” “And the no smoking sign has become a standard part of the in-flight experience.” Image credits: Shutterstock

Travel Trouble

Tourism hotspot in Italy attracts attention for selling strange souvenir

Italy’s picturesque region of Lake Como has started selling a unique souvenir, making many people raise their eyebrows. The north Italian tourist hotspot has long been known for being the backdrop of many Hollywood films, while also hosting countless celebrity weddings, with many famous faces owning houses in the region. For those travelling to the stunning Lake Como and wanting to purchase a souvenir to remind them of their travels, you can now forgo the classic keyring or magnet for a more unique souvenir item. Communications company ItalyComunica says it has bottled the very air of Italy’s picturesque Lake Como and is selling these cans for €9.90 ($16 AUD) apiece. Each can is said to contain 400 millilitres of “100% authentic air” collected from Lake Como, with the website stating buyers can “Open it whenever you need a moment of escape, tranquillity, or simply beauty.” In an attempt to capitalise on the ever-growing visitor numbers, marketing specialist Davide Abagnale originally created the e-commerce site to sell dedicated Lake Como posters, before delving into the world of the unique souvenirs. His latest initiative of selling canned air aims to “create a souvenir that could be easily transported in a suitcase for tourists” and “something original, fun and even provocative.” Abagnale told <a href="https://edition.cnn.com/2024/11/04/travel/lake-como-air-cans-on-sale-intl-scli/index.html">CNN</a>, “It’s not a product, it’s a tangible memory that you carry in your heart,” adding that once tourists are home and have opened the can, they can repurpose it as a souvenir pen holder or plant holder. Not everyone was first onboard with the idea, as Como mayor Alessandro Rapinese said it wouldn’t be his first idea for tourists, and would prefer they take home other souvenirs, like the silk scarves the area is known for. “It’s a novel idea, but not for everyone,” he told CNN. “But as mayor of one of Italy’s most beautiful cities, if someone wants to take some of their air home, that’s fine as long as they also take beautiful memories of this area.” Image credits: ItalyComunica/CNN/Shutterstock

International Travel

Readers response: What piece of travel memorabilia brings back the best memories for you?

When we travel, many of us love to pick up a souvenir to remind us of our holidays and the destinations we loved. We asked our readers what piece of travel memorabilia brings back the best memories, and the response was overwhelming. Here's what they said. Jan Hall - Christmas Decorations! Then when I put my tree up it’s like a trip down memory lane, first one was 1973 from Singapore our first overseas holiday. Debra Stone - A letter opener with a Paua shell on the handle. New Zealand wouldn't let us take it in our luggage, so we posted it home to ourselves! Becky Murfet - In 1984 we went to Europe and I collected match boxes from different countries. Have them in a large glass bowl. Great to look at for memories sake. Caron Castner - Stines from Germany. Margie Buckingham - A palm-sided wooden carved elephant from a side trip off my cruise from Singapore to Malaysia & Thailand and back to celebrate my 40th. It sits on my mantelpiece so to deliberately trigger good memories of a younger me. Frank Nieuwenhuis - 2300 year old oil lamp bought in Israel. Fay Russell - Turkish tea set. Valma Blake - Of all the things I've bought on my travels, my favourite is my cat ornament collection that are decorated relative to the country or area I visited. Image credits: Shutterstock

International Travel

Fitness influencer gets lifetime ban from NYC marathon for filming content

A Texas social media influencer has been disqualified and banned from future races at the New York City marathon. Last weekend, fitness influencer Matthew Choi ran the race with his camera crew on e-bikes, endangering other runners. He finished the 42.2-kilometre course with a time of 2:57:15, about 50 minutes behind Abdi Nageeye, the winner of the men's race. Choi issued an apology to his 400,000 followers after receiving the lifetime ban. "I have no excuses, full-stop," he said on Wednesday AEDT. "I was selfish on Sunday to have my brother and my videographer follow me around on e-bikes, and it had serious consequences. "We endangered other runners, we impacted people going for PBs, we blocked people from getting water and with the New York City Marathon being about everyone else and the community, I made it about myself. "And for anyone I impacted, I'm sorry." He added that the decision "was 100 per cent on me" as he did not receive pressure to film content from any partners or sponsors. New York Road Runners, the organisers of the race, said in a statement that Choi's actions violated the code of conduct and competition rules. "One of the incidents brought to NYRR's attention was that Choi ran with the assistance of two unauthorised people riding the course on electric bicycles, obstructing runners," the group said. The fitness influencer posted several videos of him running the marathon on social media, which immediately drew backlash. "As a runner, seeing him was amazing. Gave me extra motivation to pass him and make sure I never had to see him and his dumb crew for the rest of the race," wrote one user on Reddit. He has since acknowledged the criticism and has vowed to stop the practice. "It won't happen again. My word is my bond." Images: Instagram

Travel Trouble

Chris Hemsworth's new tourism ad triggers major backlash

Chris Hemsworth and his wife Elsa Pataky have come under fire after appearing in a major tourism campaign for Abu Dhabi. The Aussie actor and his Spanish model wife feature both feature in the production, that shows them having an intense day on-set of a fake action movie. While both dangling from the side of a building between takes, the duo claim they could “use a vacation about now”, before the ad showcases the best Abu Dhabi has to offer. With their three children in tow, Hemsworth and Pataky are shown enjoying various tourist attractions in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) capital, including open-top car rides in the desert, surfing, relaxing massages and trips to the city’s National Aquarium and theme park. The video was posted by the official Abu Dhabi Instagram account, and quickly racked up thousands of comments from keen travellers saying the video had convinced them to book a holiday in the UAE. <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DB_XZUvJO8g/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DB_XZUvJO8g/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Experience Abu Dhabi (@visitabudhabi)</a> </div> </blockquote> However, many commenters weren't quite as happy, as hundreds of fans questioned why Hemsworth, who has an estimated net worth of $225 million, would opt to promote a tourist destination that is notorious for restricted human rights. “Is he running out of money?” one person questioned, while another added, “Just got to ignore all the human rights abuses." “Not much of a vacation if you’re a member of the LGBTQIA+ community,” a third wrote. “A country without women’s rights and workers’ rights. An amazing thing to promote with your huge celebrity,” a fourth added. Abu Dhabi has a long and chequered history when it comes to human rights, with archaic laws inhibiting women’s rights, restricted freedom of speech and the continued criminalisation of homosexuality. Image credits: Instagram

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Fitness influencer gets lifetime ban from NYC marathon for filming content

Chris Hemsworth's new tourism ad triggers major backlash