ALEX MCWHIRTER CONSUMER CHAMPION AND RAIL EXPERT
We can expect OEBB's new generation of Nightjets to be a complete departure from the Austrian rail operator's current fleet.
According to Mark Smith of enthusiasts' website Seat61.com, "These sleepers are a complete departure from 100 years of the classic European sleeper layout. They make great use of the [available] space."
OEBB has ordered no fewer than 33 new Nightjet trains, at a cost of €700 million, from manufacturer Siemens. The first ones will enter service next year with the entire fleet operating from 2025. With a design speed of 230 kms an hour, they are no slouch.
Each train consists of seven carriages comprising seating, couchettes, conventional sleepers (all with en suite shower and toilet), and the new Mini Cabins. The latter are the first such sleeping spaces to be seen anywhere in Europe (including the UK).
It would suggest Siemens has emulated airline practice by making great use of space for these Mini Cabins or, one could say "pods".
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Bu hikaye Business Traveller UK dergisinin November 2022 sayısından alınmıştır.
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Bu hikaye Business Traveller UK dergisinin November 2022 sayısından alınmıştır.
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Pan Pacific Orchard, Singapore
BACKGROUND This biophilic property opened in June 2023 and is the second Pan Pacific hotel in the city, the other being the Pan Pacific Singapore. The hotel is a member of the Green Collection within the GHA Discovery loyalty programme. It is BCA Green Mark Platinum-certified for its sustainability credentials.
The Hoxton, Lloyd Amsterdam
BACKGROUND The Hoxton brand debuted in London's Shoreditch in 2006 and is part of Ennismore, in which Accor holds a majority stake. The brand has 16 properties across Europe and North America, including two in Amsterdam - the first opened in 2015 in the city centre, followed by this property in the Eastern Docklands in August 2023.
Ruby Zoe, London
BACKGROUND Germany's Ruby Hotels launched in 2013, and operates 17 properties in locations including Amsterdam, Dublin, Düsseldorf, Frankfurt, Hamburg and Zurich.
London Hilton on Park Lane
BACKGROUND The London Hilton on Park Lane opened in 1963 - the first Hilton property in the UK. To celebrate its 60th anniversary last year, the hotel embarked on an extensive multi-million pound refurbishment led by the GA Group.
Philippine Airlines A321 business class SINGAPORE-MANILA
BACKGROUND Philippine Airlines operates flights from Singapore Changi Airport to Manila's Ninoy Aquino International Airport, using A321ceo aircraft, which stands for 'current engine option, indicating an older aircraft than the A321neo. My flight (PR502) was a morning departure at 1035, arriving 1425 local time in Manila.
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