A step forward for sharks

Cathay Pacific, one of the world's largest carriers of air cargo, has banned the shipping of shark fin, a major step in protecting the animal.

The ban also applies to its subsidiary Dragonair, also a major player in the transport of air cargo to Hong Kong and China. Shark's fin soup is popular dish for weddings and banquets in China-speaking communities worldwide. The delicacy is, however, is not environmentally friendly, as the fishermen catch sharks, cut off their fins and throw the sharks back into the water to die.

Connecting with SIA

Singapore Airlines (SIA) recently introduced Internet connectivity on 14 of its aircraft. In-Flight Connectivity is available to passengers at a cost of US$25 for 30 megabytes of data and US$10 for 10 megabytes of data. Passengers can use the Internet on their computers or iPads, to send and receive e-mails on smartphones and other electronic devices, and to send and receive SMS text messages with GSM-compatible mobile phones. Through a partnership with OnAir, the technology will be rolled out across all of SIA's long-haul Airbus A380-800, A340-500 and Boeing 777-300ER aircraft over the next two years.

Games children play

Europe's largest toy museum, in the French town of Moirans-en-Montagne, has re-opened after a two-year restoration project. The collection includes 3,000 different games for children and displays of artefacts illustrating the history of toy making in the Jura area. Visit www.Musee-du-Jouet.com - DPA

Down-under to Europe via Dubai

Qantas and Emirates have signed a 10-year partnership that will divert Qantas's hub for European flights from Singapore to Dubai starting from April next year. Qantas will launch daily A380 services from both Sydney and Melbourne to London via Dubai, meaning that together Emirates and Qantas will offer 98 weekly services between Australia and Dubai. The agreement will go beyond codesharing, as it counts on integrated network collaboration with coordinated pricing, sales and scheduling as well as a benefit-sharing model. The frequent flyer programs, for example, will be readjusted, giving customers expanded opportunities to earn and redeem points.

On the ropes in Fleisch

The treetops behind the Swiss town of Fleisch are the location for a new rope park, which offers a number of challenging trails laid out like the topography of Switzerland. Stations along the way include such celebrated Swiss sites as the Berne parliament, or the Stockalper Palace, in Brig. The park is designed to test skills, concentration and courage and is also unique because a section of the facility is accessible to people on wheelchairs. The park is open in September and October on Saturdays and Sundays from 10am to 6pm. - DPA