SINGAPORE, 29 February 2024: Dao by Dorsett AMTD Singapore welcomes Ken Yong as its new general manager as the hotel looks forward to elevating the guest experience.
Dao by Dorsett AMTD Singapore, located at OUE Downtown in Singapore’s business district, is known for its innovative apart-hotel model, providing contemporary and flexible living spaces that cater to the needs of both short and extended stays.
Socially and locally driven, its ‘aparthotel’ model lets guests enjoy their own custom living space in 268 fully serviced apartments alongside multiple touchpoints to interact with the local environment.
“I am thrilled to be part of the Dao by Dorsett family as General Manager and to lead this vibrant aparthotel concept in the heart of Singapore. Dao by Dorsett has a unique identity in the hospitality landscape, and I am eager to contribute to its continued success as a model for the future,” said Yong.
Yong served as the pre-opening general manager at The Pines Melaka, and then before joining Dao by Dorsett AMTD Singapore, he served as the general manager for Dorsett Singapore.
PHUKET, 28 FEBRUARY 2024: As the travel fervour stoked by the recently-concluded Chinese New Year cools down, travel platform Trip.com featured its “Super World Trip BOSS Live” livestream show in Phuket on 28 February.
The latest edition made a stop in Phuket ahead of the Songkran festival, collaborating with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), which featured deals on flights, hotels, accommodations and tour packages to Thailand.
The bargains included top hotels in popular destinations such as the livestream venue Katathani Phuket Beach Resort. It offered a discount of over 70%.
The livestream was the second hosted by Trip.com in Thailand this year, with the first session on 31 January achieving a total Gross Merchandise Value of more than THB200 million.
The Songkran festival season deals come hot on the heels of the popular Chinese New Year travel period, which saw 194,275 travellers from China visiting Thailand during the week of 5-11 February 2024 – the largest group of visitors from any country in that week.
These numbers further entrench China as Thailand’s top source of tourists in the year to date, thanks to the visa-free travel policy enacted by the Thai authorities last September. The visa-free policy will be made permanent and mutual on 1 March.
With more Chinese travellers opting to head to Thailand thanks to the convenience of visa-free travel and the delectable cuisine and breathtaking landscapes, the Land of Smiles has seen 4.4 million tourists visit this year, a 48% spike compared to last year. The government aims to hit 35 million visitors in 2024, with Chinese tourists projected to make up some 8 million — or more than one-fifth — of that target.
KUALA LUMPUR, 29 February 2024: The Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) announced this week has recruited the Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) as its official airline partner and premier sponsor for the MATTA Fair scheduled for 22 to 24 March at MITEC Kuala Lumpur.
MAG is made up of Malaysia Airlines, Firefly, AMAL and MASwings.
From left to right: Syazwan Ahmad Sabri, Head of Airlines Global Sales; Dersenish Aresandiran, Chief Commercial Officer, Airline Business; Nigel Wong, President of MATTA; Sheikh Awadh, Deputy President of MATTA.
MATTA, in its press statement, described the collaboration as a “great partnership to enhance the MATTA Fair experience for visitors through easy access to Malaysia’s premier airlines’ offers and a diverse range of products and services.”
The dedicated Malaysia Aviation Group pavilion will be located at the travel show’s Level 3.
MATTA president Nigel Wong said: “We are thrilled to once again join forces with Malaysia Aviation Group’s airlines for the MATTA Fair. Their partnership and support add significant value to the Fair and underscores our commitment to meeting the evolving demands of our valued consumers at the MATTA Fair.
During the MATTA Fair, MAG’s airlines will offer up to 30% off on airfares to domestic and international destinations within its network. This exclusive offer is valid from 22 to 24 March 2024 via the physical Fair and on the airlines’ online platforms from 21 March 2024 for travel from 21 March 2024 to 15 December 2024.
In addition, Malaysia Airlines, Firefly and MASwings will also offer up to 25% off on ancillary products, including seat selection, extra baggage, and more. Members of Malaysia Airlines’ award-winning travel and lifestyle loyalty programme, Enrich, will also enjoy 5% off their bookings, five times EnrichMoney points for EnrichMoney users and 50% Bonus Enrich Points on Malaysia Airlines flights during this period.
In addition, travel show buyers can also look forward to the much-awaited Buyers Contest, where the group’s airlines will offer 30 return tickets, including business class tickets to London and Ahmedabad, India, and economy class tickets to China and Vietnam.
The 54th edition of the MATTA Fair will be Malaysia’s biggest consumer travel and holidays fair, attracting an average of 150,000 visitors in its previous show in 2023. The MATTA is renowned as the “much-awaited travel and holidays fair” by the consumer and is the “highly-in-demand” platform for industry stakeholders and players to showcase, market and sell their packages and offerings to the consumers.
MATTA Fair is free to attend from 1000 to 2100 over three consecutive days, from Friday, 22 March to Sunday, 24 March. MATTA has collaborated with local authorities to manage traffic flow to provide easier travel to MITEC and reduce potential traffic congestion.
As part of these efforts, MATTA offers free shuttle services with a regular frequency from key locations – KL Sentral and Sunway Putra Mall directly to MITEC and back. This free shuttle service provides visitors with convenient transportation to MITEC for the Fair. MATTA would like to encourage all to use the free shuttle service to MITEC and back.
MATTA and MITEC are providing Muslim visitors and exhibitors dedicated F&B facilities and services for “buka puasa” at various locations at the venue and dedicated prayer halls at Hall 5.
For the latest information updates, visit the MATTA Fair’s website and social media platforms on Facebook, X, and Instagram, or subscribe to the new Telegram channels @MATTA_Fair.
KUALA LUMPUR, 29 February 2024: AirAsia continues to build its flight network between Malaysia and India with 14 routes group-wide and plans to expand to more Indian cities.
It will introduce flights to Jaipur commencing on 21 April, to Visakhapatnam on 26 April and Ahmedabad on 1 May 2024.
AirAsia’s robust network of destinations has enabled more than 5 million guests to fly between India, Malaysia and beyond in the last six years alone, and this figure has seen a spike following the government’s announcement of visa-free entry for Indian citizens visiting Malaysia.
AirAsia flies directly from Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok to 14 cities in all of India. From Kuala Lumpur, the airline flies 56 flights weekly on short-haul airline AirAsia Malaysia (AK) to the cities of Trivandrum, Chennai, Tiruchirappalli, Kochi, Hyderabad, Bengaluru and Kolkata. Medium haul affiliate AirAsia X Malaysia (D7) also provides two direct routes from New Delhi and Amritsar to Kuala Lumpur with eight weekly flights. From Bangkok, AirAsia operates 50 flights weekly to Guwahati & Lucknow via Thai AirAsia (FD).
AirAsia Aviation Group Limited CEO Bo Lingam commented: “We are proud to reaffirm our steadfast commitment to democratise air travel by making it accessible to a broader audience in one of our biggest markets to date ‒ India. AirAsia believes in making the dream of flying a reality for everyone. Our enhanced connectivity to India is a testament to our dedication to inclusivity, ensuring that air travel is within reach for people from all walks of life. More than two decades ago, AirAsia started our humble journey of pioneering low-cost travel in the region, back when such a concept was a dream many thought was impossible. And here we are today, flying to several routes in India from major hubs and counting.”
AirAsia offers promotional fares to celebrate the expansion in India, starting from MYR249 all-in-one-way for flights to all* its destinations from its Kuala Lumpur hub. The promo runs until 10 March 2024. The travel period will end on 30 November 2024.
SINGAPORE, 28 February 2024: Pandaw, Asia’s specialist riverboat cruise operator, announced on Tuesday the launch of The Pandaw Spa, a luxurious upgrade to its existing spa services on the lower Mekong River.
In line with Pandaw’s branding and ship design, The Pandaw Spa will present an understated elegance and indulgent relaxation using locally sourced materials and products.
Trained local therapists will offer a wide range of Asian and international treatments, including massages and facials, allowing you to unwind after the day’s excursions as your riverboat sails the Mekong.
The new look Pandaw Spa will launch in September 2024 aboard all lower Mekong ships, with pre-booking and payment also available for spa services via pandaw.com.
Bookings are open for lower Mekong cruises and a memorable and rejuvenating experience at the Pandaw Spa.
SINGAPORE, 28 February 2024: Royal Caribbean Group offers a peek at the lineup of international sailings on offer at the upcoming NATAS Travel Fair 2024, convening at Singapore Expo Halls 4 and 5A from 1 to 3 March.
The Friday to Sunday travel show opens from 1000 to 2130. Travellers can head for the cruise line’s stand 4H36 to explore different destinations, packages, and deals featuring Royal Caribbean’s fleet of 27 ships.
Spotlight on Royal Caribbean sailings
Caribbean Chilling: Icon of the Seas Takes Center Stage Meet Icon of the Seas, a vacation revolution combining resort luxury, beach vibes, and theme park thrills to explore the sunny shores of Honduras and Puerto Costa Maya in Mexico on the 7-night West Caribbean sailing. With eight neighbourhoods, seven pools, six record-breaking waterslides, and over 40 ways to drink, dine and be entertained.
Short and Sweet: Utopia of the Seas Sets Sail For travellers looking to add on a cruise getaway as part of an American adventure, Utopia of the Seas debuts in July 2024, offering an ultimate three-night weekend getaway from Port Canaveral. Featuring over 40 dining options, including a new one-of-a-kind train-inspired dining experience, multiple pools, and a visit to the exclusive Perfect Day at CocoCay, Utopia of the Seas guarantees an energetic weekend for friends and families.
Adventure in Alaska: Experience Quantum of the Seas Embark on a seven-night Alaska adventure this September on Quantum of the Seas. This ship is designed for next-level experiences amid glaciers, wilderness, and enchanting wildlife. Thrill-seekers can defy gravity on RipCord® by iFLY® skydiving simulator at sea, then bond with loved ones on the bumper cars and roller-skating at SeaPlex®, the largest activity space at sea. Not to be missed are the breathtaking 360-degree views 300 feet above sea level from the North Star® observation capsule – the best way to soak in the bucket list-worthy views of Alaska
Explore Europe in Style: Odyssey of the Seas and Allure of the Seas Odyssey of the Seas invites thrill-seekers on an unforgettable journey through Greece, Turkey, and Italy. Don’t miss the chance to experience the transformative Two70 – in the evening, live entertainment paired with amazing multimedia visuals across a floor-to-ceiling wall of windows. Two70 becomes a nightclub that keeps the party going strong when night falls. Odyssey of the Seas offers a Quantum Ultra Class experience that takes adventure to the next level. Meanwhile, Oasis Class ship Allure of the Seas also takes guests to top European destinations, offering unmatched thrills, dazzling entertainment, and captivating itineraries and featuring a zip line ride and splashworthy spaces for kids, including the interactive H20 Zone℠ Water Park. The AquaTheater is the deepest pool at sea, flanked by two 30-foot diving platforms that set the scene for mesmerising aqua show spectaculars.
Captivating China: Spectrum of the Seas Getaways Starting May 2024, Spectrum of the Seas calls Shanghai home, offering four- and five-day cruises to Japan and Korea, with stops in Okinawa, Nagasaki, Fukuoka, Ishigaki and Jeju. Families can spend quality time together while enjoying exclusive access to the deluxe amenities in the two-storey Ultimate Family Suite.
MUNICH Germany, 28 February 2024: AVIAREPS, an international representation, marketing and communications company for the travel industry, and the Shanghai Municipal Government announced, this week, the launch of Shanghai’s official online B2B travel platform, SmoothTravel.
SmoothTravel will serve as the official gateway for the global travel industry to connect with both inbound and outbound Chinese travel agencies, tour wholesalers, online travel agencies (OTAs), and MICE agents in the East China market.
SmoothTravel will link international travel businesses with the thriving travel market in Shanghai and China. The platform is designed for all travel industry segments, including major destinations, receptive tour operators, hotel groups, retailers, attractions, rental car agencies and cruise lines eager to broaden their business outreach to the Chinese market.
SmoothTravel standouts
• China Partner Search: SmoothTravel empowers overseas members to identify new inbound or outbound China travel trade partners. Members can easily connect with Smooth Travel’s Member Matching Manager, facilitating introductions to highly qualified Chinese travel trade partners based on their specific requirements.
• Risk Mitigation: Addressing differences in payment practices, SmoothTravel provides a payment guarantee system to minimise risks associated with new China travel industry partners. A comprehensive travel insurance programme is also offered for Chinese members to ensure risk reduction for both outbound and inbound sectors. In addition, a bilingual mediation system to resolve any disputes is provided to members at no cost.
• China Outbound Market and Consumer Insights: Leveraging extensive Chinese government and industry resources, SmoothTravel delivers the latest research on China’s outbound travel market, industry trends, and consumer preferences.
• Training and Support: SmoothTravel offers a comprehensive two-way training platform with specialised courses for both overseas and Chinese members. All members can access promotions and support during various events in China.
• Market Research: Members can commission SmoothTravel for custom-tailored tourism market research to optimise their market strategies.
About AVIAREPS AVIAREPS is a leading international representation, marketing and communications company for aviation, tourism, hospitality, and food and beverage brands. Founded in Germany in 1994, the company’s global network extends to six continents.
SINGAPORE, 28 February 2024: Amadeus has joined the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association (IGLTA) as the travel technology company works to fulfil ambitions as an active ally of the LGBTQ+ community.
IGLTA has a mission to provide information and resources for LGBTQ+ travellers and expand LGBTQ+ tourism globally by demonstrating its significant social and economic impact.
“IGLTA welcomes Amadeus with open arms. Its commitment to inclusive travel experiences aligns with our mission to advance LGBTQ+ tourism,” says IGLTA president and CEO John Tanzella. “Its global influence adds tremendous value to our community, and we’re excited to see the collaborative opportunities its membership unlocks.”
Amadeus has a strong track record of support for the LGBTQ+ community, becoming a supporter of the United Nations Standards of Conduct for Business for tackling discrimination against Lesbian, Gay, Bi, Trans, & Intersex people in 2018.
IGLTA was founded in 1983 and is the leading global network of tourism businesses welcoming LGBTQ+ travellers. Members include LGBTQ+ friendly accommodations, transport, destinations, service providers, travel advisors, tour operators, events and travel media in over 80 countries.
BANGKOK, 28 February 2024: The Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office invites travel professionals and stakeholders from the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) to meet in Lijiang, China, from 23 to 25 April for the annual Mekong Tourism Forum.
Themed “Visionary Journeys Redefining Tomorrow’s Travel,” this year’s forum will emphasise collaboration, innovation, and forward-thinking strategies. The aim is to inspire delegates to explore new forms of tourism that deliver economic benefits, environmental consciousness and cultural enrichment.
Lijiang: inspirational setting for MTF 2024.
Set against the backdrop of the scenic city of Lijiang, China, the MTF2024 should welcome 200 tourism professionals and stakeholders, comprising tourism ministers, leaders, NTOs, NGOs, and private sector representatives.
MTCO executive director Suvimol Thanasarakij said the keynote speech entitled “Visionary Journeys Redefining Tomorrow’s Travel” will offer a glimpse into the future of GMS travel, spotlighting the shift towards sustainable and conscious tourism in a post-pandemic era.
A panel session on “Unleashing Potential: Enhancing International Cooperation to Propel Tourism Growth” will address strategies for strengthening cooperation. The aim is to foster a unified, prosperous, and responsible future for GMS tourism.
Delegates can also join a field study, an on-site exploration of Lijiang’s Old Town, and see an exhibition at the museum showcasing Lijiang’s cultural heritage.
MTF2024 is hosted by the Bureau of International Exchanges and Cooperation of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of China, the Yunnan Provincial Culture and Tourism Department, the People’s Government of Lijiang City, and the Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office (MTCO). It is co-organised by the Lijiang Municipal Administration of Culture and Tourism and Network International Culturalink Entities.
To learn more and register for the MTF 2024 at no cost, visit the MTCO’s website at www.mekongtourism.org
Registration closes at 2359 (GMT+7) on 8 April 2024 or when all spots are filled. As space is limited, registrations will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Early registration is recommended to ensure participation.
Hong Kong, 28 February 2024: Hong Kong Express will launch a new route from Hong Kong to Bangkok’s Don Mueang International Airport (DMK) effective 25 April.
In a statement posted on its Facebook Page, the airline confirmed the new daily service in addition to its flights to Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport, Phuket in South Thailand and Chiang Mai, the largest city in northern Thailand
The airline serves Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport from its Hong Kong base. scheduling three daily flights plus three weekly services on Monday, Thursday and Saturday, giving it 24 flights a week.
To support the launch of daily flights to DMK, the airline is offering one-way tickets from Hong Kong to Don Mueang Airport Bangkok starting at HKD108, cheaper than the flights to Bankokk Suvarnabhumi Airport, Phuket and Chiang Mai that start at HKD128 one-way. The travel period for the Don Mueang flights runs from 25 April to 26 August 2024.
The airline will use an A320 on the HKG-DMK route configured with 174 seats in a single cabin class. The service will compete head-on with Thai AirAsia, which operates three daily flights from DMK to HKG.
