Kazakhstan air carrier Air Astana extends its routes and online reach to include more of Eastern Europe and Central Asia. New routes to the Russian Federation, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan round out an overall growth spurt for the award winning carrier. In other news, a deal with HRS.com and 3 other regional carriers allow customers added flexibility and convenience.
Eastern Europe
Turkey Eyes Three UNESCO Intangible Heritage Spots
These are: the Kırkpınar oil wrestling festival, the Semah, Alevi-Bektaşi ritual and the traditional Sohbet meetings.
Three Treasures from Croatia Proposed for the UNESCO List of Intangible Heritage 2010
These are ojkanje singing, the Sinjska Alka tournament and the gingerbread making craft from Northern Croatia.
Poland Turns to Beach Blanket Bingo Politics
An interesting political campaign in Warsaw reveals just how creative (and beautiful) Polish women politicians can be. Sarah May has turned to a sort of “Beach Blanket Bingo” style of campaigning for Warsaw’s upcoming city elections – posing in her bikini and proclaiming her competency. Now there is transparency in a politician if there ever where any. Warsaw governance may never be the same – and that could be a good thing.
Slovakia Calling: Christmas Market in Bratislava
In Bratislava, adults are children again, for one month, beginning November 19 to December 23, 2010. It’s the time of the Christmas Market.
Slovenia Presents the Gay and Lesbian Film Festival 2010
The Ljubljana Gay and Lesbian Film Festival begins November 27 to December 5. Films screened at the festival are meant to promote tolerance and awareness.
Bulgaria Unveils John the Baptist Relics
Recently discovered relics supposedly bones from John the Baptist could start a pilgrim tail leading directly to Bulgaria’s capital of Sophia. The fist public showing of these ancient relics saw tens of thousands flock to Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. Russian Federation Premier Vladimir Putin and many other dignitaries paid their respects. Bulgaria’s tourism industry is their main source of outside investment and spending.
Albania, Bosnia-Herzegovina Get Free Visa Privileges
The EU has now granted fee visa privileges to Albania and Bosnia-Herzegovina in an effort to spur democratic reforms and progress. These two Balkan republics’ citizens can now travel freely within the Schengen area, basically all of the EU. Officials warn of a withdrawal of privileges should serious problems with immigration ensue.
Winexpo Serbia 2010 – International Wine Festival Opens Today
The “Winexpo Serbia” (Winexpo Srbija in Serbian) Autumn International Wine Festival opened today in Novi Sad.
Direct Holidays Named the Best Tour Operator to East and Southern Europe 2010
The company has recently launched its summer 2011 range, featuring, among others, two Eastern European destinations, Turkey and Greece; and one Eurasian – Cyprus.
EU and Russia: Free Visa Talks at Standstill
Travel and tourism for Russia is up this year despite slow progress on the free visa issue. The EU’s apparent stalling of Russia on free travel is holding up what could be a boom for the industry worldwide. Business between the EU and the Russian Federation could take many countries out of the recession with expanded cooperation, so just why the EU is holding back makes little sense to many.
Macedonia’s Autumn Music Festival In Swing
Macedonia is in full musical swing this month with the Autumn Music Festival at the capital Skopje. This year’s cultural event promises to be the best ever, with performances from artists of the Balkans and beyond. For those who have never visited Macedonia, this may be the ideal time to acquaint themselves with this small but wonder laden treasure of the Balkans.