BRITISH Airways has decided to bring in a permanent smoking ban on one of its flights from Hongkong to London, and to begin a trial period of non-smoking on a daily flight in the opposite direction. Non-smoking was introduced for a trial period last spring on daily flight BA028 to London, and this will now be permanent. On September 1, BA027, one of two daily flights from London to Hongkong will also be non-smoking for a trial period. The first North Atlantic non-smoking trial will also start in September on one of two daily Boeing 747 flights between London and both Los Angeles and San Francisco. Until now, British Airways' only other smoking-free flights have been domestic in the UK. DURING this and next month, the Hyatt Regency Macau is offering the complimentary use of its child-care facilities to all parents dining in any of the hotel's restaurants. The centre is open until 9.30pm. Ask about the scheme while making reservations. THE 830-room Shangri-La Hotel, Singapore, has been voted Hotel of the Year worldwide in annual awards of the UK-based Executive Travel magazine. It also took the award for Best Conference Hotel. The Shangri-La Bangkok was runner-up in the Hotel of the Year vote. SOUTH Korea's Chejudo island has been chosen as the venue for the 5th International Underwater Photography contest to be held in September next year. The contest is expected to draw around 200 participants from 30 nations. The event has never been held in Asia before, and will be organised as part of Visit Korea Year. Travellers' Check information should be faxed to 980-3140 or mailed to GPO Box 47.
