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Regional English airport announces direct flights to one of Europe’s ‘last real hidden gems’ – with fares from £19
Plus, other new routes announced by the airport
MANCHESTER Airport is launching its first direct flights to one of Europe's least visited countries, that's been dubbed a "hidden gem".
FlyOne will be operating twice-weekly direct flights to Moldova - the home of an award-winning wine scene, picturesque landscapes, and some of the world's most friendly hospitality.
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From Tuesday 17th December, the flights will depart on Tuesdays and Saturdays to the capital Chisinau.
Flight prices will start from £19 per person for one way.
Moldova, officially known as the Republic of Moldova, has remained a hidden gem destination in Eastern Europe, despite having many reasons for people to visit.
It's known for its wine, with a history of wine-growing that dates back thousands of years.
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The country has over 120 wineries, and the Codru region is home to some of the oldest.
Cricova is the country's largest wine cellar, and was the first to produce traditional method sparkling wines in the 1950s.
Moldova also has a rich history and many historic landmarks can still be visited today.
Căpriana Monastery is known for being one of the oldest monasteries in the country and for being a centre of Moldavian music, architecture, and written language.
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There's also Old Orhei, a natural and historical complex located on a bend of the Răut River, which is popular with nature lovers and people looking to enjoy a quiet spot.
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Chisinau itself is ideal for a city break as it is packed with museums, galleries, bars and restaurants, and it’s also known for its Soviet-era architecture.
Ruslan Bolbocean, Ambassador of the Republic of Moldova to the UK, said: “The Embassy of the Republic of Moldova is pleased to welcome the launch of the direct flight between Chisinau and Manchester.
"This new connection is an important development for the Moldovan diaspora in the North West of England and enhances cooperation between the Republic of Moldova and the UK.
"This is the result of productive meetings with Manchester Airport earlier this year, and we are grateful for the strong partnership established. We encourage all airlines to explore similar opportunities to boost connectivity and look forward to the positive impact this will have on both business and tourism.”
Stephen Turner, chief commercial officer at Manchester Airport added: “We are proud to connect the North to the world through our route network of more than 200 destinations, more than any UK airport outside London. A key part of that is connecting people to friends and family in other countries.
“The North is home to lots of people from Moldova and we’re really pleased to be able to help them visit their homeland from an airport right on their doorstep.
"This new route also gives people from the North the opportunity to take the road less travelled and visit one of Europe’s last real hidden gems, with fantastic wine and beautiful scenery.”
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FlyOne was launched in 2016 and has become the largest airline in Moldova.
The company currently operates flights to 60 destinations.
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