Paddington's London, New Zealand from the air, and new Portugal rail pass: Travel agenda

Where to go and what to know

1. Kiwi fliers

Discover the World has launched a series of new ways to enjoy New Zealand, including a unique aerial tour of the South Island, with the option to self-fly. The trip is for sightseers, pilots, or pilots-to-be, using small Piper Archer or Piper Warrior aircraft.

discover-the-world.co.uk

2. Peak form

Snow bunnies who want to get in shape before hitting the slopes need look no further than their phones. Neil Maclean-Martin, a Chamonix-based physiotherapist and clinical therapist, has launched a new video-based app. SkiFit offers exercises that can be done at home or in the gym.

befitapps.com

3. Saving Grace

Grace Hotel's latest venture opened its doors in Panama City this week. Occupying the ground floor and upper six floors of the "Twist Tower" in the Obarrio District, it expects to attract both business and leisure travellers and has 60 rooms and suites, many of which enjoy sweeping views. Doubles start at US$160 (£100), room only.

gracehotels.com/panama

4. Follow the bear

From next month, fans of Paddington Bear can follow his paw prints around London. The Paddington Trail opens on 4 November, with 50 Paddington statues placed across the city that lead to museums, parks, shops, and landmarks. The new Paddington Bear film goes on UK release on 28 November.

visitlondon.com

5. Early Vincent

An exhibition of Van Gogh's early work will launch in Mons, Belgium, in January as part of the city's year as European Capital of Culture. It will coincide with the 125th anniversary of the painter's death and feature 70 of his works, as well as letters to and from his brother Theo.

vangogheurope.eu

6. Back on air

Canadian Affair has unveiled Newfoundland and Labrador as a new holiday destination for 2015. The province will be served by its first flight from Gatwick to St John's. The twice-weekly flight will be run by the tour operator's sister company Air Transat from 18 June to 2 September.

canadianaffair.com

7. Ski Jackets

Looking great on the ski slopes is almost as important as keeping warm. Killy and Eider's 2014/15 ranges of ski jackets combine practical features such as duck down insulation and Eider's "thermal control system", with faux-fur collars, nipped in waists, and eye-catching patterns. Prices range from £250 to £750, available at Snow + Rock.

snowandrock.com

8. Rail pass

A new rail pass has been launched which will allow tourists to travel around Portugal on one ticket. All Comboios de Portugal trains will be included, including long distance and urban trains. The Portugal Rail Pass is available in a three- or seven-day option (£84 and £100 respectively) to be used within one month.

www.cp.pt