SINGAPORE, 12 July 2024: Etihad Airways will increase its direct flights between Abu Dhabi and Boston from four weekly to daily, starting 27 October.
Earlier this week, the airline confirmed the increase in flights ahead of the North American winter travel season, offering North American corporate and leisure travellers flexibility when planning trips to the UAE, the Gulf region and the Indian subcontinent.
The decision to increase Boston flights to daily is based on the route’s strong performance. It comes just three months after Etihad Airways introduced Boston as its fourth destination in the US. Boston joined Chicago, New York, and Washington, D.C., as well as Toronto, Canada, further expanding Etihad’s North American footprint.
“Our Boston service continues to perform strongly, with our flights near capacity since our inaugural flight in Boston this March,” said Etihad Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer Arik De. “Having already experienced record passenger demand, we’re excited to invest further in the North American market by expanding our flight frequency out of Boston ahead of the peak winter travel season.”
Etihad’s daily Abu Dhabi – Boston flights will use a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, featuring Business Studios and Economy Smart seats. (28 seats in business and 262 seats in economy)
Toronto Welcomes the Airbus A350
In addition to increasing flight frequencies to Boston during autumn, Etihad will also fly its Airbus A350 daily to Toronto Pearson Airport in Canada, beginning on 27 October.
Powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines, the Airbus A350 is one of the most efficient aircraft types in the world, with 25% less fuel burn and CO2 emissions than previous models. The aircraft also features Etihad’s newest cabin interior with an elevated business class home to 44 Business Studios. In addition to facing forward with direct aisle access, every Business class seat converts into a fully flat bed of 79” in length with ample storage space.
KUALA LUMPUR 12 July 2024: China Southern Airlines and Malaysia Airlines will expand codeshare flights between cities in China and Malaysia, the airline reported earlier this week.
The new codeshares are active since 10 July on the following routes: Guangzhou-Penang (CAN-PEN), Kuala Lumpur-Beijing Daxing (KUL-PKX) and Kuala Lumpur-Shanghai Pudong (KUL-PVG).
The move follows the recent launch of the carriers’ codeshare flights on the Guangzhou-Kuala Lumpur route, which strengthened connectivity.
China Southern Airlines says it will increase capacity in the Malaysian market to 73 weekly flights to meet the growing travel demand that soared following the introduction of visa-free travel between the two countries.
Malaysia Airlines currently operates 54 weekly flights to China, covering Guangzhou (CAN), Shanghai Pudong (PVG), Beijing Daxing (PKX) and Xiamen (XMN).
China Southern Airlines Deputy Director General of the Commercial Steering Committee and Senior Vice President of the Marketing Division Zhang Dongsheng said: “Under the framework of the “Belt and Road” initiative, China Southern Airlines will continue to leverage its network advantages to explore new opportunities with Malaysia Airlines, and deepen our cooperation in more fields, aiming to bring greater air travel experience for all passengers.”
Malaysia Aviation Group Chief Executive Officer – Airlines Ahmad Luqman Mohd Azmi said: “By expanding our codeshare agreement, travellers can now enjoy an enhanced travel experience, seamlessly connecting to more destinations with greater convenience and flexibility. This is especially beneficial with the current visa-free policy for Malaysian and Chinese travellers to travel between the two countries, making it easier to discover and appreciate the rich cultures and attractions they offer.”
SINGAPORE, 11 July 2024: Pandaw is promoting a 21-night combo itinerary that includes the UNESCO World Heritage site of Halong Bay, the fascinating Red River through northern Vietnam, and the remote and untouched Upper Mekong River in Laos.
Sailing aboard Pandaw’s small expedition vessels, you get the chance to explore the very best that Northern Vietnam and Laos offer hassle-free without needing to unpack and repack. Pandaw’s crew and support team know the waterways of these two fascinating Southeast Asian rivers like the back of their hand.
Dates are now available for sailings with special offers such as no single supplement on select dates. Book today and reserve your preferred stateroom with Pandaw in Vietnam and Laos. To book, visit pandaw.com or contact us at [email protected]
Red River essentials
The Red River Delta is a fertile plain in northern Vietnam drained by the Red River. Here are some of the top sights and attractions.
Hanoi – Vietnam’s capital city, is a fascinating mix of old and new, with ancient temples and pagodas alongside French colonial architecture and modern skyscrapers. The Temple of Literature, Hoan Kiem Lake, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and the Old Quarter are must-see sights.
Van Long Lagoon – An attractive ecotourism site located about 80 km south of Hanoi. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for its stunning natural beauty, with limestone cliffs, rice paddies, and a variety of plant and animal life. You can explore the lagoon by boat and see monkeys, deer, and many species of birds.
Bat Trang Pottery Village – Located on the banks of the Red River, Bat Trang is a traditional village famous for its ceramics. Here, you can watch artisans at work, learn about the pottery-making process, and buy unique souvenirs.
Long Bien Bridge – A historic cantilever bridge over the Red River in Hanoi. Completed in 1902 by the French, the bridge is a popular tourist destination and offers stunning views of the river and the city.
Perfume Pagoda (Chua Huong) – A complex of Buddhist temples located in a limestone mountain range about 60 km from Hanoi. Visitors can take a boat ride up the Perfume River to reach the pagoda and then climb hundreds of steps to reach the top.
These are just a few of the many sights and attractions you can visit on Vietnam’s Red River. With its rich history, beautiful scenery, and friendly people, the Red River Delta is a great place to experience Vietnamese culture.
Must see on the Upper Mekong
The Mekong River journey from Vientiane to Huay Xai is a popular route for cruises, offering stunning landscapes, historical sites, and a glimpse into the local life of Laos. Here are some of the sights you can expect to see along the way:
The mighty Mekong River itself: The lifeblood of Southeast Asia, the Mekong is a sight to behold. As you cruise down the river, you’ll be surrounded by lush green mountains, serene villages,
Passing through Xayabouri Dam: Guests gain an inside look at the workings of this somewhat controversial attraction as the Pandaw vessel navigates an impressive set of locks.
Pak Ou Caves: Located near the village of Pakbeng, these fascinating caves are filled with thousands of Buddha images dating back centuries. You can explore the caves and learn about their history and significance in Lao culture.
Traditional villages: Small, traditional villages dot the banks of the Mekong. Local people go about their daily lives fishing, farming, and weaving. Some cruises offer the opportunity to visit a village and learn more about Lao culture. Pandaw guests visit Ban Na San village, a Hmong minority hill community.
Sandbanks: The Mekong River is known for its sandbanks, which emerge during the dry season. These create beautiful, temporary islands in the middle of the river, where you can relax, swim, and soak up the sun.
Wildlife: Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife as you cruise down the river. You might see birds such as kingfishers and eagles, as well as monkeys and even the occasional wild elephant.
In addition to these sights, there are other activities, such as hiking near Ban Pak Sith Khummu village, visiting an elephant sanctuary and local markets as well as exploring the fascinating TAEC (Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre) in Luang Prabang. So, if you’re looking for a relaxing and scenic way to see Laos, a Mekong River cruise from Vientiane to Huay Xai is a great option.
Halong Bay, Red River & Laos Mekong Combo VIENTIANE – VIET TRI 21 nights FROM USD7,970 PP
BANGKOK, 11 July 2024: Centara Ayutthaya, a new lifestyle hotel nestled in the heart of the historic province, ensures guests exceptional moments with seven highlights to suit everyone.
Ideal Location
Just a short one-hour drive from Bangkok,Centara Ayutthaya is a new destination in the heart of the province. Promising the ultimate convenience, whether for travel, shopping, relaxing, or business, Centara Ayutthaya is just a stone’s throw from the city’s Unesco World Heritage sites and popular tourist destinations. Ayutthaya’s government complex and industrial park are also located nearby.
Ayutthaya’s tallest hotel featuring a rooftop pool and panoramic views
On the rooftop of Ayutthaya’s tallest hotel, with stunning panoramic city views,a vibrant infinity pool awaits workout enthusiasts, or just unwind in a private poolside cabana.
Contemporary design with a touch of historic Ayutthaya
Centara Ayutthaya is a perfect blend of modern designand historic Thai touches. Check out the impressive design based on the concept of Land and River to represent the town’s geographical origin.
Step back in time with the hotel’s structure, inspired by Ayutthaya’s architectural elements, to paint a picture of the old capital through a white rectangular pattern inspired by the stacks of overlapping red bricks from the Ayutthaya era. The eye-catching golden recesses over the facade serve as a time machine taking guests back to the glory of the olden days, while the hotel’s red-brick accents journey through art pieces around the hotel, as well as the elevator hall, corridor carpets and guestrooms.
Guests can immerse in the unique objets d’art exclusively crafted for Centara Ayutthaya; don’t miss especially the glittering Chedi-inspired masterpiece in the lobby that spellsthe city’s prosperity.Guestrooms are adorned with antique-style lamps, paintings that tell stories of Ayutthaya,and classic wooden latched windows in traditional Thai houses.
Unwind in lush gardens reminiscent of Ayutthaya’s olden days. Verdant walkways replicate a winding river, while the garden is decorated with earth-toned balcony-like terracotta tiled walls.
Discover dining variety all in one place
An all-in-one dining haven featuring restaurants, cafés, party spots and rooftop bars for all food lovers.
For foodies, the House of Kin is a contemporary all-day-dining restaurant that serves Ayutthaya delicacies. Outstanding for its tantalising breakfast and special themed buffets, the restaurant is famous for its boat noodles, grilled river prawns, pan-fried egg with toppings, steamed bread with pandan kaya custard and Thai tea custard, soy milk with deep-fried dough stick, and Thai cotton candy wrap.
For café hoppers, The Summer Coffee Company is Ayutthaya’s chicest café with a great variety of freshly roasted coffees, pastries and bakeries, be sure to try the signature Ayutthaya Coffee – a velvety aromatic milky coffee topped with cotton candy, in the cosy café atmosphere or on the garden terrace.
Partygoers can’t miss DIWA. With views of the historic town and the sunset as a backdrop, DIWA, on the hotel’s 20th-floor rooftop by the city’s highest pool, is perfect as a hang-out destination. The restaurant and bar serves creative libations and a variety of Thai-style tapas while guests are serenaded by a live DJ.
Insta-worthy spots
A not-to-be-missed location and lots of insta-worthy spots for content creators.
Let’s journey to Ayutthaya’s olden daysvia a contemporary Chedi-inspired masterpiece in the lobby and eye-catching red-brick walls connecting the hotel to Central Ayutthaya.
Chic coffee corners atThe Summer Coffee Company. Sip and snap for your ‘Gram.
Ayutthaya’s highest swimming pool and rooftop bar with a sunset skyline.
Lush gardens and balcony wallswith artistic lights and shadows, ideal for nature lovers
Unwind in the guestrooms
Centara Ayutthaya ensures total relaxation with contemporary room designs, where a Thai touch seamlessly blends with modern elements. Watercolour paintings reflect the Ayutthaya way of life, while antique-style lamps, classic wooden latched windows, and red-brick-pattern carpets do magic in the guestrooms.
A favourite corner is the supersized window, where the daybed can serve as an extra bed and a private space for resting, relaxing, or even working.
Every room can accommodate three adults and has a 55-inch LED television with a smartphone mirroring function so guests can enjoy their favourite TV series. Guests can also make the most of the signature Lotus Flower amenities exclusively crafted for Centara Ayutthaya for a restful night.
Pet-friendly hotel with stay-and-play facilities ideal for your furry friends
Various activities have been designed and created for pet owners and their best friends, regardless of their weight, size and breed. After stay-and-play moments in the guestroom, furry friends are welcomed at Wuff & Munch, a pet-friendly café serving special treats and drink menus for guests and their companions.
KUALA LUMPUR, 11 July 2024: Bargain hunters are heading for the Malaysia Mega Sale 2024, which is up and running until 31 July and offers shopping discounts of up to 85%.
Under the national sales campaign slogan “MY Priceless Experience,” the Malaysia Mega Sale features leading retailers and shopping malls across the country, supported by a network of hotel associations, travel agencies, airlines, KTMB (Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad, the main rail operator), and local tourism industry players.
With up to 85% discounts, the campaign is designed to provide extraordinary value and create a memorable shopping experience with the help of Mastercard, the leading partner.
The initiative promotes Malaysia as a premier shopping destination and aims to revitalise the national economy, including the accommodation, gastronomy, and tourism sectors. It is expected to generate MYR102.7 billion in tourism revenue for the 2024 national coffers.
Malaysia is home to one of the most vibrant shopping scenes globally, with an abundance of first-class malls offering various luxury goods, arts and crafts, gadgets, apparel, and high street labels. From the iconic malls in Kuala Lumpur to hidden retail gems across the nation, shoppers will find endless destinations to explore and indulge in.
During the event, numerous activities are scheduled at shopping malls across the country. In addition to special offers, there are a variety of fun elements for the entire family, including prize draws, treasure hunts, cultural performances, photo opportunities, playgrounds, colouring competitions, and family workshops.
Beyond shopping, the Malaysia Mega Sale is also about showcasing the wider hospitality experience. Visitors can take advantage of attractive offers at restaurants, accommodations, spas, wellness, and beauty outlets. The campaign’s motto, “Shop, Eat, Rest, and Repeat,”
The Malaysia Mega Sale continues until the evening of 31 July 2024.
SINGAPORE, 11 July 2024: The ‘Love Is In The Air’ Vivid Drone Show and the 71st Sydney Film Festival lifted June hotel performance in the Sydney hospitality market, according to preliminary data from CoStar.
CoStar is a leading provider of online real estate marketplaces, information, and analytics in the property markets.
June 2024 (year-over-year % change)
Occupancy: 72.6% (+1.0%); Average daily rate (ADR): AUD243.45 (+1.5%); Revenue per available room (RevPAR): AUD176.81 (+2.5%).
The ADR and RevPAR levels were the highest on record for any June in Sydney. The city posted its highest occupancy of the month (88.0%) on Saturday, 8 June, which was the first night of the Vivid Drone Show, as well as the fourth night of the Sydney Film Festival. Sydney’s second-highest monthly occupancy level (82.7%) was seen the next night. ADR (AUD312.35) and RevPAR (AUD274.90) also reached June highs on Saturday, 8 June. Collectively, Vivid Sydney delivered almost identical year-over-year results with RevPAR 0.4% lower than 2023. Demand was 2.9% higher but balanced out by a 3.2% rise in supply.
For more information about the company and its products and services, visit www.costargroup.com.
KUALA LUMPUR, 11 July 2024: AirAsia is expanding its flight network between India and popular destinations in Asia and Australia and beyond by connecting 16 cities in India to over 130 destinations across its network via Malaysia and Thailand.
In line with its expansion in the Indian travel market, AirAsia will bring an innovative “cinematic in-flight” experience for movie-goers to selected cinemas across India to showcase its diverse and unique destinations as part of the movie-goers’ experience.
The collaboration will enhance AirAsia’s outreach via more than 130 cinemas across 12 cities over the next six months. As part of this initiative, movie-goers will stand the chance to win AirAsia flights to anywhere across its network. AirAsia will also collaborate with more than 130 local travel content creators to showcase its destinations in Asia, Australia, and beyond, spanning bustling cities, serene beaches, historic landmarks, and vibrant local cultures.
Supporting post-pandemic travel recovery, AirAsia has actively expanded routes for India in 2024, providing direct connectivity to two of its major Asian hubs, Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia and Bangkok in Thailand, as a gateway to over 130 destinations worldwide. It serves an extensive network of cities, including Bangalore, Ahmedabad, Visakhapatnam, Trivandrum, Chennai, Tiruchirapalli, and Hyderabad, among others. Additionally, AirAsia will launch new flights from Guwahati, Kozhikode, and Lucknow to Kuala Lumpur and Tiruchirapalli to Bangkok in the coming weeks.
Beyond India, AirAsia recently opened new routes to Almaty in Central Asia in March and Nairobi in Africa just last week, connecting travellers affordably from across the Asian region to vibrant new destinations via a short stopover in Kuala Lumpur.
AirAsia’s Chief Commercial Officer Paul Carroll said: “AirAsia is grateful for the support of our guests in India, which has made us the largest foreign airline by network in the country. Since early 2024, we have expanded our network in India with 10 additional routes, bringing the total to 26 routes from India to Malaysia and Thailand. Operating over 20 daily flights across 16 cities, AirAsia counts as one of the top airlines with the highest number of weekly flights to and from India. Our ongoing network and fleet growth post-pandemic will benefit our guests through great value fares, choice, and connectivity, leveraging one of the largest low-cost networks reaching over 130 destinations across Asia, Australia and beyond.
“Today, we are excited to unveil an innovative partnership with Qube Cinemas, a leader in digital cinema technology, to elevate AirAsia’s brand presence in the market. Soon, the immersive AirAsia ‘cinematic in-flight’ experience will be in 130 cinemas across India for six months, and we’re really looking forward to connecting more meaningfully with movie-goers who are also travel lovers through this initiative.”
BANGKOK, 11 July 2024: Absolute Hotel Services will launch two properties on Thailand’s eastern seaboard, U Sriracha and T Hotel Sriracha, in 2026.
U Sriracha will feature 168 rooms and villas with indoor and outdoor pools, a fully equipped fitness centre, meeting spaces, dining options, and a rooftop lounge bar.
T Hotel Sriracha, part of the Relax brand in the Absolute Collection, will offer 48 rooms, a Japanese spa and Onsen, a fitness centre, and F&B options.
Set to open in 2026, the two properties will cater to domestic and international upscale business and leisure travellers. Sriracha is a thriving industrial hub close to Laem Chabang port, Chonburi, and the bustling beachside towns of Pattaya and Bang Lamung.
Absolute Hotel Services CEO and Founder Jonathan Wigley expressed his enthusiasm at the latest addition to the group’s portfolio: “These properties epitomise our dedication to delivering exceptional service and creating unique experiences that reflect the vibrant local culture. Sriracha’s dynamic blend of Thai and international influences provides the perfect setting for our newest ventures. We eagerly anticipate welcoming guests to these exciting destinations.”
SINGAPORE, 11 July 2024: ForwardKeys’ latest data release, in partnership with ETOA, forecasts Europe is poised for an exceptional summer, with inbound tourism projected to surpass previous records.
ForwardKeys says international arrivals to Europe in July and August show year-on-year growth of +12%, just above the global average (+11%). This growth is driven primarily by intra-regional travel, up +10% compared to 2023. This represents a significant influx of visitors from long-haul markets in Asia Pacific (+11%) and the US (+21%).
Photo credit: ForwardKeys.
Fast growth for Central and Eastern Europe
Central and Eastern Europe are witnessing the fastest growth in inbound tourism after a delayed response to the war in Ukraine. This summer, the region expects a remarkable 23% increase in tourist volumes compared to last year. Northern Europe is also on track to grow faster (+12%) than Southern European destinations (+10%), reflecting a broader recovery trend across all European subregions.
Major European city destinations lead the tourism revival, outpacing traditional sun and beach holidays. Cities like Munich (+37%), which benefits from key sporting events this summer, are seeing significant growth. The pattern is balanced across European subregions, with substantial increases throughout the continent, including Vienna (+23%), Edinburgh (+19%), Madrid (+16%) and Venice (+16%).
Photo credit: ForwardKeys
Asia-outbound
China and Japan power bookings to Europe; China (+64%) and Japan (+53%) compared to 2023. Although overall volumes are still below pre-pandemic levels, improvements in air connectivity have led to a surge in travel from these countries.
China, in particular, is responsible for a much larger share of seat capacity than pre-pandemic (+12 p.p.), partly due to limited China-US connectivity. Chinese airlines are deploying their widebody fleet on routes into Europe instead.
Multi-destination trips to Europe are also popular with Asian travellers heading for Europe this summer. Standout city pairs include Budapest – Vienna (+118%), Milan – Munich (+106%), Prague – Amsterdam (+71%) and Istanbul – Athens (+63%), reflecting the popularity of urban European destinations for Asian travellers looking to combine cultural, historic and shopping activities.
ISKANDAR PUTERI Johor, 11 July 2024: Tiong Nam Hospitality Group will expand its marina complex with the addition of private and mega yacht marinas at the Pinetree Marina & Resort, Puteri Harbour, making it a significant milestone for the group, which has managed the 107-room resort since 2018.
The recently added public marina features 76 berths and can accommodate a variety of yacht and boat categories. However, two additional marina categories will open as part of the group’s expansion plans; a private marina and a mega yacht marina.
Pinetree Marina’s strategic location provides access to crucial Southeast Asian maritime corridors, making it a popular starting point for boaters from Phuket, Langkawi, Pangkor Island, Kota Kinabalu, and Singapore.
Tiong Nam Hospitality Group Senior General Manager Johnny Lau stated: “This marina is our newest endeavour, reflecting our commitment to excellence and innovation in both the marina and hospitality industries. Its strategic location provides effortless access to crucial Southeast Asian maritime corridors.”
The marina is situated at coordinates 01° 25.07′ N 103° 39.51′ E, offering members and guests a range of top-tier amenities, including a fuel dock, laundry facilities, shower rooms, buggy transportation, a customs, immigration and quarantine (CIQ) complex, and a marine department office. The berths have 24-hour CCTV security systems and WiFi connectivity, ensuring a safe and comfortable experience.
Tiong Nam Hospitality Group, which also manages Hard Rock Cafe Puteri Harbour, Hard Rock Cafe Ipoh, Fraser Place Puteri Harbour, BRIX KLIA, and the upcoming 1975 Hotel and Avenue, aims to transform Pinetree Marina & Resort into a premier destination for yachting enthusiasts, leisure seekers, and business travellers.
About Pinetree Marina & Resort Pinetree Marina & Resort Puteri Harbour marks Tiong Nam Hospitality Group’s strategic entry into the marina industry. The public marina currently offers 76 berths in the picturesque Straits of Johor. The resort features 107 contemporary apartments in a spectacular 25-floor building.
Its prime location provides easy access to attractions such as Legoland Malaysia, Horizon Hills Golf and Country Club, and Sunway Big Box Retail Park.
