Brussels Airport Announces 9 New Destinations and 6 new Airlines with 178 destinations on offer  

While spring might be making a delayed appearance, the summer season at Brussels Airport is set to kick off as planned on March 31, boasting a refreshed lineup that includes classic sunny destinations alongside several new routes. This summer, a whopping 178 direct destinations will be accessible via 64 airlines. Brussels Airport is expanding its network with 8 new destinations across Europe and beyond, such as Singapore, Shanghai in China, Nairobi in Kenya, Bergen in Norway, Krakow in Poland, Bari in Italy, Bacău in Romania, Gazipaşa in Turkey, and Brive in France.

Travellers will once again enjoy a diverse range of options at Brussels Airport this summer, whether it's exploring outside of Europe, embarking on a European city break, enjoying a seaside family vacation, or visiting relatives abroad. With a total of 178 direct destinations served by 64 airlines, including six new partners, there's something for everyone this summer.

Important Info Brussels Airport:

• Brussels Airport's summer season begins March 31 with 178 direct destinations via 64 airlines.
• 8 new destinations added: Singapore, Shanghai, Nairobi, Bergen, Krakow, Bari, Bacău, Gazipaşa, Brive.
• Six new airlines joining, including Singapore Airlines, Juneyao Airlines, and Hainan Airlines.
• Brussels Airlines introduces Nairobi and Krakow routes; fleet expansion includes A330-300 and A320neo aircraft.
• United Airlines adds second daily flight to Newark; Air Canada and Air Transat increase service to Toronto and Montreal.
• Air Arabia expands Moroccan destinations to seven.
• Long-haul network features 37 destinations: 6 in North America, 3 in Central America, 9 in Sub-Saharan Africa, 4 in Gulf region, 5 in Asia.

New Additions and Services:
This summer, six new airlines will be joining the Brussels Airport lineup. Singapore Airlines will start operating direct flights to Singapore from April 6, while Juneyao Airlines and Hainan Airlines will offer daily flights to Shanghai. Additionally, Cyprus Airways, Wideroe, Amelia, and Wizz Air will enhance the airport's network with new destinations.

Brussels Airlines is introducing two new destinations this summer: Nairobi and Krakow. With a fleet expansion, including a tenth A330-300 and three new A320neo aircraft, the airline will serve a total of 88 destinations, including 18 in Sub-Saharan Africa and 2 in North America. Transavia will also station a third aircraft at Brussels Airport this summer.

United Airlines is adding a second daily flight to Newark, increasing its U.S. offerings to four daily flights. Air Canada and Air Transat are reinforcing service to Canada with additional flights to Toronto and Montreal, respectively.

Air Arabia is broadening its Moroccan offerings with two new destinations, Tetouan and Rabat, bringing the total to seven destinations in Morocco.

Extensive Intercontinental Network:
Brussels Airport's long-haul network this summer will feature 37 destinations:

• 6 in North America (New York, Newark, Chicago, Washington, Montreal, Toronto) served by various airlines,
• 3 in Central America (Punta Cana, Cancun, Montego Bay) with TUI fly,
• 9 in Sub-Saharan Africa, with Brussels Airlines, Ethiopian Airlines, and Rwandair,
• 4 in the Gulf region: Abu Dhabi, Doha, Dubai, Jeddah,
• 5 in Asia: Beijing, Shenzhen, Shanghai, Tokyo, Singapore.

With this robust summer offering, Brussels Airport continues to provide a comprehensive and appealing network both within Europe and beyond for all types of travellers!

Air China Launches One Stop South America Route - 

Get ready for some exciting news from the world of aviation. Air China is getting set to relaunch its flight services to South America starting this April, and it's a pretty big deal! This move is making waves in the aviation industry, especially because it will introduce the world's longest one-stop flight service.

So, what's the scoop? Well, Air China will be flying twice a week from Beijing Capital to São Paulo, and the route is specially tailored to serve the large Chinese Brazilian community living in São Paulo. Pretty cool, right?

According to some nifty data from Cirium, if you look at the flight schedules from May to August 2024, this service will take the crown as the longest one-stop, consistent-plane, and identical-flight-number operation using the Boeing 787 aircraft. And when you check out the distances on GCMap, you'll see that this route really stands out from the crowd.

Now, there are some other long-distance routes out there, like Aeromexico’s Mexico City-Monterrey-Seoul and KLM’s Amsterdam-Buenos Aires-Santiago, but they don't quite measure up to Air China's new service. Over the past couple of decades, there have been other airlines offering one-stop flights between Asia and South America, but Air China is the only one to offer a direct link from China.

This isn't the first time Air China has flown this route, though. They initially started flying from China to South America via Madrid back in December 2006. The route has seen some upgrades over the years, starting with the Boeing 767, then moving to the Airbus A330-200, and finally switching to the more fuel-efficient Boeing 787-9 in 2017. Unfortunately, they had to suspend the service because of the pandemic, but now it's making a comeback!

Important details about the One Stop South America Route: 

• Flights from Beijing to Madrid and then on to São Paulo will operate on Thursdays and Sundays
• This is a  rare daytime service from South America to Europe
• The journey to Brazil will take just under 26 hours
• the return trip to China will be around 22 and a half hours

This comeback not only shows Air China's dedication to connecting continents but also opens up new travel possibilities for tourists and the global Chinese community. It's bound to boost tourism and strengthen cultural ties between China, Spain, and Brazil. So, buckle up and get ready for a new way to fly between China and South America.

Plan your next trip here

Direct Flights between Mexico City and Shenzhen - 

Get ready for an exciting journey as China Southern Airlines, the nation's largest carrier, embarks on its maiden voyage from Mexico City with nonstop flights to and from Shenzhen, commencing 17th  April, 2024. This will be a twice weekly route. This exciting news makes further travel to Hong Kong and Thailand etc much easier. 

Key Highlights:

• Historic Flight Route: Covering over 16 hours across the Pacific, this trailblazing route marks China's longest flight and one of the planet's lengthiest regular journeys, spanning 14,147 kilometers (8,790 miles).
• Strategic Move: Despite logistical challenges, China Southern's decision underscores Mexico's growing allure as a business gateway, attracting Chinese enterprises seeking alternative routes.
• Economic Momentum: With burgeoning bilateral trade and investments, China's direct engagement with Mexico surged to $587 million in 2022, setting a record high, indicative of the strengthening economic ties.
• Trade Boost: As commerce flourishes, Chinese businesses, including Tesla suppliers like BYD Co., are establishing manufacturing footholds in Mexico, amplifying exports and diversifying market access.
• Resilient Partnership: Despite pandemic-induced disruptions, both countries' commitment to fostering trade remains unwavering, with China Southern's new service paving the way for enhanced connectivity and collaboration.

Direct Flights between Mexico City and Shenzhen

Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said :

“We reiterated our commitment to continue maintaining good relations for the benefit of our people and our nations,”

This landmark initiative symbolizes the deepening partnership between China and Mexico, fostering mutual prosperity and paving the way for future collaborations. Buckle up for a journey of growth, innovation, and opportunity! 

 Plan your next trip to China 

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China Expands Visa-Free Travel to Six European Countries - 

Exciting news for avid travelers! China is extending a warm welcome to explorers from six additional European countries with an expanded 15-day visa-free travel policy. From March 14 to November 30, 2024, passport holders from Switzerland, Ireland, Hungary, Austria, Belgium, and Luxembourg can now enter the enchanting land of China without the hassle of a visa.

Key Points on China Expands Visa-Free Travel to Six European Countries:

• Expanded Countries: Switzerland, Ireland, Hungary, Austria, Belgium, and Luxembourg now join the list of countries eligible for visa-free travel to China.
• Travel Purposes: Ordinary passport holders from these countries can enter China without a visa for tourism, business, visiting relatives and friends, and transit during the specified period.
• Facilitating Procedures: This move reflects China's commitment to facilitating procedures for foreigners, promoting personnel exchanges, and building fast-track networks for cross-border travels.
• Diplomatic Ties: China's pledge to grant unilateral visa-free access for Swiss citizens and upgrade diplomatic ties with Switzerland strengthens international relations and economic collaboration.

China Expands Visa-Free Travel to Six European Countries

This move is in line with China's commitment to fostering global connections, simplifying travel procedures, and building bridges for cross-border exchanges. Travel enthusiasts, business professionals, and those reconnecting with friends and family can now immerse themselves in the rich cultural tapestry of China during this trial period.

Notably, this expansion follows China's diplomatic promises made earlier in January 2024. During a meeting between Chinese Premier Li Qiang and Swiss President Viola Amherd, China pledged to grant unilateral visa-free access for Swiss citizens, strengthening diplomatic ties and enhancing economic collaboration between the two nations.

Whether you're drawn to the ancient wonders of the Great Wall, the modern skyline of Shanghai, or the serene landscapes of Guilin, China beckons with a diverse tapestry of experiences. This trial period opens up new possibilities for travelers, allowing them to explore the country's vibrant cities, historical landmarks, and natural wonders without the constraints of visa applications.

Planning your Chinese adventure? Embrace the opportunity to witness the seamless blend of tradition and modernity, savor delectable cuisine, and engage with the warm hospitality of the Chinese people. China's commitment to facilitating travel for foreign visitors aligns with its dedication to creating a more accessible and interconnected global community.

Pack your bags and get ready to embark on a memorable journey to China! Discover the beauty, culture, and charm of this incredible destination with the newfound ease of visa-free travel. Let the adventure begin!

Contact Crown DMC to plan your next trip to China

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Happy Lunar New Year! - 

Get ready to welcome the Year of the Dragon with a bang as the people in Asia kick off the Lunar New Year on Saturday, 10th February! Whether you're gearing up for traditional festivities or simply soaking in the lively atmosphere, there's an undeniable sense of excitement in the air.

Lunar New Year is all about family coming together to share stories, laughter, and, of course, mouthwatering food. Think dumplings, spring rolls, and tangyuan—just a few of the delightful treats enjoyed.

Tradionally there are mesmerizing dragon and lion dances that bring streets to life with colour and energy. Fireworks light up the night sky, symbolizing the driving away of evil spirits and welcoming good fortune.

For those curious about Asian culture, now's the perfect time to delve into its rich history and traditions. From the significance of the zodiac animals to age-old rituals believed to bring prosperity and luck, every aspect of Lunar New Year offers a glimpse into centuries-old customs passed down through the generations.

Whether you find yourself in the heart of Asia or halfway across the globe, seize this opportunity to immerse yourself in the magic of Lunar New Year.

From all of us at Body and Soul International and our DMCs inAsia, we wish you a joyous and prosperous Year of the Dragon!

Contact Crown DMC to plan your next trip to China, Contact Phoenix Voyages to plan your next trip to Indochina, or Kelana DMC for your next trip to Bali or check our other DMCs for Asia

International Airlines are flying once again to China - here are the latest two:

China and Hong Kong: KLM has announced that it will add more flights to China beginning on March 26th, 2023.  KLM plans to increase the number of flights to China with a non-stop from Amsterdam Schiphol International Airport (AMS) to Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) three times a week. Departures to Hong Kong will be on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays.

Beijing and Shanghai:The Dutch carrier will also launch flights to Beijing International airport (PEK) and Shanghai Pudong Airport (PVG) . These flights will start with six weekly flights before moving to daily services in May. 

And more great news about Cathay Pacific: Hong Kong to Johannesburg
The Hong Kong airline Cathay Pacific have announced that it will resume direct flights between the Chinese territory and South Africa . On August 2nd, the flights will restart and be operated three times a week. 
Here you find other airlines that have started flying to China again: namely: Delta airlines, United, British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, Air France, Japan airlines, Thai Airways, Emirates, Egypt Air, Kenyan Airways and more