Winter is here and for some this will be the first winter spent in New Zealand for quite some time... Whether you're just going to make better use of the bach, take the opportunity to really explore New Zealand or spoil yourself (and your family) on a special occasion, we hope today's ideas will offer some inspiration.

Although the borders are closed, we're continuing to publish articles each month covering interesting international and now domestic travel topics. We hope you'll find these valuable for planning your travels.

We’ve been encouraged by emails and calls about future travel plans (for when the time is right) and Fine Travel has continued to help clients with emergency travel needs so they can be with loved ones, or for other urgent business. We're closely following domestic and international travel developments and remain in close contact with our airline and cruise line partners.

Looking back on our last Business Class and cruise sales alerts makes for an Alice in Wonderland–like experience. References to Brexit, the new Emirates "H-Class" airfares (let alone our Facebook posts about Air New Zealand's proposed bunk beds in Economy Class), feel like they are from a parallel universe.

This week we've seen innovation from Emirates with a new category of Premium airfares to the UK and Europe and to Bali, competition to the US with Air New Zealand responding to Qantas' Global Sale, and discounts through all cabins on Qantas' flights to South Africa (ideal for those who have booked or are planning a safari).

For Fine Travel clients travelling to Italy, and wanting an authentic experience independent from a group tour, this 6 day cuisine focused itinerary includes farm house accommodation on an estate with organic products, olive groves and vineyards, cooking classes and private local guided tours.  

For Fine Travel clients looking for an organised and escorted tour of France, offering the comradery and comfort of group travel on a luxury coach, enjoying 4 - 5 star accommodation, this Insight Vacations Country Roads of France Tour will appeal.

When it comes to deciding whether to book one of the cheapest business class flights from New Zealand to the UK and Europe, it's important to weigh up the pros and cons of the available options.

As a seasonal destination, knowing the right time of year to go to Antarctica is important. There are two other important questions: when to book your Antarctica Cruise and when to book the flights to join your Antarctica Cruise.

For travellers from New Zealand looking for discounted airfares to the UK / Europe, including discounted business class airfares, the start of the early-bird season is the ideal time to save more by booking your airfares in combination with a European river cruise.

When the advertising for early-bird airfares for business class to the UK / Europe comes out in full force, it's a good time to reflect on the changes we have seen in early-bird pricing, and to share our observations on