From Ocean Liner to Luxury Hotel: The SS Medina’s $18M Transformation
A historic passenger ship has found new life as a floating hotel after an $18-million transformation. The SS Medina, now the world’s oldest surviving ocean liner, has been repurposed into a unique accommodation. Meanwhile, major airlines and countries are rolling out new travel innovations ahead of the busy holiday season.
The SS Medina, once a grand passenger vessel, has been converted into a luxury hotel. The $18-million project preserved its historic charm while adding modern amenities. No details about a Singaporean investor have been confirmed in relation to the refurbishment.
Elsewhere, Egypt has launched high-speed trains capable of reaching 155 miles per hour. These will run on a planned 2,000-kilometre network, connecting major cities. However, Egypt’s system will not be Africa’s first—Morocco already operates a high-speed line between Tangier and Casablanca, hitting speeds of up to 200 miles per hour.
In aviation, Qantas has revealed images of its new long-haul jet, designed for nonstop flights of up to 22 hours. The aircraft will enable direct routes from Sydney to London and New York, cutting travel time significantly. Southwest Airlines, meanwhile, monitors its entire fleet in real time, especially during peak periods like Thanksgiving, when up to 600,000 passengers take to the skies in a single day.
For travellers, flight attendants advise booking directly with airlines to avoid complications. They also recommend disinfecting surfaces to stay safe during crowded holiday journeys. Over on the Caribbean island of Saint Martin, Maho Beach remains a spectacle—its proximity to Princess Juliana Airport means planes land just metres away, with up to 70 flights a day during peak season.
The SS Medina now operates as a hotel, offering a blend of history and modern comfort. Egypt’s high-speed rail expansion and Qantas’ ultra-long-haul flights signal a push for faster, more efficient travel. With holiday crowds approaching, airlines and travellers alike are preparing for one of the busiest seasons of the year. The changes reflect a mix of innovation and tradition in global transport and hospitality.
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