SINGAPORE, 4 January 2024: Vistara, a joint venture between India’s TATA Sons and Singapore Airlines, will fly double daily on the Mumbai-Singapore route, effective 1 February 2024.
The airline currently offers a daily direct flight between Mumbai and Singapore, with flight (UK105) departing the Indian city at 0055 and arriving in Singapore at 0915. The return flight UK106 departs Singapore at 1030 and arrives in Mumbai at 1345. Flight time is five hours and 50 minutes using an A321. Fares start at around USD145 to USD156 one-way.
Photo credit: Aerowanderer. Vistara A321.
The new daily flight (UK107) scheduled to start on 1 February will depart Mumbai mid-morning at 1050 and arrive in Singapore at 1845. The one-way fare starts at around USD120. The return flight (UK108) will depart Singapore at 1945 and arrive in Mumbai at 2335.
Indian aviation reports speculate the airline could increase flights to popular international destinations such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Bangkok to accommodate the surge in travel demand through to the end of March 2024.
Doubling up on flights from Mumbai to Singapore is one example of catering to the increase in Indian travellers booking overseas holidays during its winter timetable ending 31 March using its recently acquired fuel-efficient A321neo aircraft.
However, competition on the Mumbai to Singapore route is tough, with airlines such as Singapore Airlines (an equity partner in Vistara), IndiGo and Air India all vying for the attention of Mumbai’s affluent leisure travellers.
Meanwhile, the airline introduced direct flights from Pune in India to Singapore starting on 17 December 2023, offering a six-weekly service departing Pune at 0210 and arriving in Singapore at 1030
The return flight to Pune departs Singapore at 1140 and arrives in Pune at 1510. Flights are scheduled on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Sunday using an A321. One-way fares start at around USD202.
Vistara taking delivery of A321neo aircraft and that is providing capacity to serve route expansion. However, competition on the Mumbai to Singapore route is tough with airlines Singapore Airlines (a partner in Vistara) IndiGo and Air India competing for leisure travellers in the Mumbai outbound travel market.
BANGKOK, 29 December 2023: Centara Hotels & Resorts, a leading hotel operator headquartered in Thailand, reflects on a highly successful year celebrating several major milestones and achievements.
2023 marked 40 years since Centara first introduced its family-centric Thai hospitality to the world, and this year was also one of the most significant in the company’s history. With three new hotels, including its inaugural property in Japan, a newly refreshed brand, a key executive appointment and multiple awards, Centara has advanced its five-year goal of becoming a top 100 global hotel operator by 2027.
To celebrate its 40th anniversary, Centara created a series of mega marketing campaigns to thank guests for their support and stimulate demand. This was not the only milestone for Centara in 2023; Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin turned 100 with a special centenary offer to help commemorate this iconic, century-old Thai heritage hotel.
Centara opened three new properties comprising 899 keys in 2023, taking its total portfolio to 95 hotels and resorts that are open or in the pipeline. These included Centara Grand Hotel Osaka, a 33-story urban landmark that marked the group’s debut in Japan. With its stylish and spacious rooms, modern MICE venues, five-star facilities, and eight world-class bars and restaurants, this hotel has already become popular among business and leisure travellers. Centara also reaffirmed its leading position in Thailand with the launch of two new properties: Centara Ubon, its first hotel in the northeastern gateway city of Ubon Ratchathani, just a few steps from the Central Ubon lifestyle mall, and Centara Ayutthaya, a new all-in-one leisure and lifestyle destination located next to the Central Ayutthaya mall and less than 15 minutes from this historic city’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed temples.
Thirayuth Chirathivat, Centara’s CEO, celebrates several major milestones and achievements in 2023.
To accelerate its future growth, the company has rebranded Centra by Centara as Centara Life, revealing a fresh and exciting new brand identity. Centara Lifewill retain its core “Elevating the Essentials” concept to help guests travel and stay seamlessly. The rebranding process will involve the complete and vibrant refresh of the brand’s visual identity, which will permeate the brand’s physical and digital presence, plus a series of new signature guest experiences such as extra sleeping comforts, complimentary local delicacies, flexible breakfast hours and more!
To help drive the growth of its six diverse brands, Centara recently announced the appointment of Michael Henssler as its new Chief Operating Officer.
A hotel industry expert with almost 30 years of experience, most recently as Kempinski’s Chief Operating Officer for Asia, Henssler will help Centara move into dynamic destinations and exciting new international markets.
Centara also achieved a series of prestigious awards. Brand Finance’s annual Thailand 50 report named Centara Grand, the flagship five-star brand, as the “Strongest Brand in Thailand,” based on factors including its brand equity, trust and value, while the Investment Analysts Association (IAA) Awards for Listed Companies 2022-23 presented the “Outstanding CEO” award to Centara’s Thirayuth Chirathivat, the “Outstanding CFO” prize to Gun Srisompong, and the “Best Investor Relations” award to Central Plaza Hotel PCL (CENTEL), Centara’s parent company. Centara was also proud to be named the “Best Employer – Thailand 2023” in the Kincentric Best Employers Awards and to achieve sustainability certification by Vireo SRL, which means that Centara’s corporate office and 12 of its hotels are now GSTC certified, with the balance certified by 2025.
The Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2023 honoured three of Centara’s hotels. Roukh Kiri Khao Yai, a member of Centara Boutique Collection, was chosen as one of Thailand’s finest “Upcountry Hotels,” Centara Grand Island Resort & Spa Maldives won second place in the “House Reefs” category for the Maldives. Centara Reserve Samui was selected as one of Thailand’s best “Beach Island Resorts” — one of nine awards this stunning property achieved this year.
“2023 was an exceptional year for Centara. As the travel and hospitality industry regained strength, we took several important steps to position our company for a strong and sustainable future. With the addition of multiple hotels, the refreshed Centara Life brand and the arrival of Michael Henssler, we are perfectly placed to accelerate our development. To also win a series of prestigious awards reaffirms our confidence that we are moving in the right direction,” said Centara’s CEO Thirayuth Chirathivat.
BANGKOK, 25 December 2023: Centara Hotels & Resorts and Kornsiri Hospitality Management Limited Partnership have signed a Hotel Management Agreement (HMA) for Tiva Ao Makham Resort Phuket, a new resort focused on health and wellness to be added to the Centara Boutique Collection.
Senior management teams from both companies officially executed the agreement at a signing ceremony at Centara Grand & Bangkok Convention Centre at CentralWorld.
The project marks Centara’s 11th hotel in Phuket and the first hotel management agreement signed with Kornsiri. It is due to open on 1 September 2025. The event was attended by Centara Hotels & Resorts CEO Thirayuth Chirathivat, COO Michael Henssler, and CFO Gun Srisompong, along with Kornsiri Hospitality Management Limited Partnership Managing Director Arthasin Kawinkij, and Directors Nakarin Kawinkij, and Paweenpongse Kawinkij.
Strategically located along Phuket’s stunning southeastern coast, this greenfield project is poised to be a go-to destination for health-conscious individuals seeking a rejuvenating escape with facilities including yoga, cycling, and a Pilates reformer studio, as well as a sauna, steam room, and onsen available to all guests.
In addition to 68 contemporary rooms and villas, Tiva Ao Makham Resort Phuket will also offer an array of unparalleled experiences that cater to every lifestyle, from its outdoor swimming pool and pool bar, delectable restaurant with a breathtaking sky bar, spa with sea view treatment rooms, and Kids’ Club plus E-Zone with table tennis.
“We look forward to welcoming Tiva Ao Makham Resort Phuket to the Centara Boutique Collection. This venture underscores our commitment to curating exceptional experiences that seamlessly blend world-class hospitality with the growing wellness sector, catering to the evolving preferences of our discerning guests,” said Thirayuth Chirathivat, Chief Executive Officer of Centara Hotels & Resorts.
“Our vision for Tiva Ao Makham Resort Phuket is to create an oasis for wellness enthusiasts, providing a sanctuary that fosters rejuvenation and well-being,” continued Arthasin Kawinkij, Managing Director of Kornsiri Hospitality Management Limited Partnership and owner of Tiva Ao Makham Resort Phuket. “We are thrilled to partner with Centara Hotels & Resorts to bring this vision to life and grow together toward a brighter, more holistic future.”
Tiva Ao Makham Resort Phuket is one hour from Phuket International Airport and a two-minute drive from Visit Panwa Pier.
VIENTIANE, 26 December 2023: “You have such a beautiful country; please preserve it as much as possible,” a group of Spanish tourists observed as they chatted to a Laos tourism promotion team.
During the brief encounter, they commented on the country’s unspoilt beauty while visiting a spectacular viewpoint in Ban Hang Khon, far south of Don Khon Island, where the Mekong River delineates the Cambodian border.
Their message was simple, sincere, and clear, reflecting their experiences at tourist stops as they journeyed from northern Laos towards Cambodia, their next destination.
It underlined the importance of having a sustainability vision that is always top-of-mind when today’s travellers research their next travel experience. It reminds stakeholders in the tourism industry to embrace sustainability ahead of driving profit and boosting visitor arrivals.
In the upcoming year, Laos’s tourism treasures will take centre stage under Visit Laos Year 2024, themed “Laos: A Paradise of Culture, Nature, and History.” Gearing up to showcase the country’s tourism potential, the Ministry of Information, Culture, and Tourism organised a FAM trip for Thai media and influencers in early December.
The aim was to highlight the rich tourism resources of southern Laos, focusing on nature and authentic Laotian experiences.
There are no direct flights from Bangkok to Pakse, the gateway city to the southern provinces of Laos. You must first fly to Vientiane, then connect with domestic flights to Pakse. Or take the overland route crossing at the Chong Mek Border Checkpoint between Thailand and southern Laos. The distance between the border checkpoint and Pakse is approximately 43 km. You can fly or take the train from Bangkok to Ubon Ratchathani and then transfer by bus or taxi to the border, a distance of 95 km (one hour and 20 minutes by car).
During the first nine months of this year, Champasak province in Laos welcomed 206,914 visitors. The southern region is best known for the charm and spectacular views of the Mekong and 4,000 river islands, but there are trekking options to waterfalls for those who love soft adventures. Among the top heritage attractions is Vat Phou, the pride of Laos, which has been recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The province features 244 tourist attractions, including 139 natural, 62 cultural, and 43 historical sites.
The FAM trip showcased the beauty of southern Laos’ nature, particularly waterfalls and rivers, as part of Champasak’s tourism development while highlighting four areas: Si Phandon; the Champasak World Heritage Cultural Zone; the Bolaven Plateau in Paksong, and the cultural and natural areas located in different districts.
The journey from Vientiane began late in the morning with a one-hour flight on Lao Airlines, landing in Pakse by lunchtime. The overland journey to Don Det followed, covering approximately 130 km.
At Nakasang, the last stop and the nearest village to Don Det, we board boats to transfer to Don Det. Upon arrival, it presented a glimpse of the scenery bathed in the sunset along the Mekong River. Here, riverside resorts and bungalows offer a perfect base to explore a riverine archipelago of islands, creating a natural awe-inspiring spectacle on the broad and fast-flowing Mekong River.
Don Det and Don Khon islands are perfect spots for those exploring Si Phan Don, including the famous Li Phi Waterfall. Don Det is linked with Don Khon by a bridge. The road around these river islands has recently been improved and is in good condition year-round. Visitors can use local tourist vehicles or bicycles to explore island attractions.
After an overnight in Don Det and a half-day excursion, the group left the island and visited Khon Phapheng Waterfall before heading north of Champasak for Paksong, a city in Laos on the Bolaven Plateau.
The area enjoys a year-round cool climate and is renowned for its coffee and tea, which has a distinctive flavour due to the plateau’s volcanic soil. It also boasts numerous waterfalls.
The Paksong Excursion Day began at Tad Koo Waterfall. This picturesque spot offers convenient access to the two-steam waterfall, with a restaurant and tourist facilities. It’s a perfect lunch stop where visitors can enjoy a meal in a simple raft shed or right next to the waterfall, where local speciality dishes are served on a table while you dip your feet in the refreshingly cool water.
Approximately 8 km from Tad Koo, Tad Tayicseua Waterfall provides soft adventure activities that explore the area around the site of seven waterfalls cascading from rocky ledges high above the pristine forest. Trekkers can spend a day here. Visitors can also observe one of the major waterfalls, Tad Kob, 70 metres high, from the viewpoint area.
Among the seven falls, Tad Phueng takes the spotlight with a 700-metre hike along fairly steep rocky inclines—a potential challenge in the rainy season. The morning is the prime time to visit, with sunlight reflecting on the waterfall, creating a rainbow effect amid wildflowers.
Another famous waterfall, Tad Gneuang, some 50 km away, is the target destination in the afternoon. Along the way, a few stops made for a taste of Lao coffee. Highlights include Paksong Highland Coffee Estate – where coffee drinkers can observe coffee plantations, and CC1971 – a famous check-in spot along the route. The CC1971 café is located in a vintage bombed-out building dating back to the civil war 1971. It serves coffee from roasted beans sourced in local family-run plantations. Its unique décor features remnants of artillery guns and even downed jets, adding a historical touch to the ambience.
The journey covers approximately 12 km, leading to Tad Gneuang Waterfall. At the entrance, the site features restaurants and tourist facilities overlooking the waterfall’s ridge. Visitors can relish a panoramic view of lush greenery from the waterfall’s lofty prominence, or they can descend the steep steps and walkways to gain a close-up experience of the waterfall’s base.
A trip to Champasak wouldn’t be complete without exploring Vat Phou, one of the country’s renowned UNESCO World Heritage sites. Constructed during the Khmer Empire era, the Hindu temple stands at the base of Mount Phou Khao, symbolising a connection between nature and humanity. Vat Phou was listed as a UNESCO site in 2001. The other UNESCO World Heritage sites in Laos are the town of Luang Prabang and the megalithic jar sites in Xiengkhuang – Plain of Jars.
As our FAM trip to Champasak concludes, the destination is abuzz with preparations for Visit Laos Year 2024. It will feature a lineup of 12 exciting activities. The anticipation adds an extra layer of excitement, inviting travellers to immerse themselves in the southern charm of Laos.
Champasak beckons with open arms to explore the region’s pristine nature or ancient temples, indulge in local flavours or connect with vibrant traditions. It promises an unforgettable experience for those who venture south beyond popular tourist destinations to Pakse, where the mighty Mekong flows fast over vast stretches of rapids to the border with Cambodia.
Salana Boutique Hotelis located on Chao Anou Road, Vientiane. In close proximity to the hotel, visitors can explore the night market and delight in the local atmosphere while trying street food along the Mekong River. The hotel is conveniently located around 5 km from Wattay International Airport.
Eastin Hotel Vientiane is situated right on the shore of the Mekong River, on Khaemkhong Road. The hotel offers 93 rooms and suites. The overall design is contemporary throughout its interior. Highlight facilities include an all-day-dining restaurant, pool bar, and rooftop bar.
Golden Hotel Don Det allows visitors to enjoy a stay and panoramic views of the Mekong River in the Si Phan Don Archipelago. Rated with 3 stars, the property provides guests with standard facilities, including a riverside restaurant and on-site pool.
Sabaidee Valley is located on Km.33 of 16E road, gracefully landscaped in the highlands of Champasak. The complex comprises a resort, restaurant, coffee shop, and souvenir store. Situated on 40 rai of land, 800 meters above sea level, it offers 26 villas and two buildings with 16 rooms each. The outdoor swimming pool area affords a picturesque view of the Bolaven Plateau.
Considered one of the top hotels in Pakse, the 4-star Champasak Grand offers a prime location and comfortable accommodation. Set next to the Mekong River with the Lao-Nippon Bridge in sight, the hotel in Pakse is a 15-minute ride from Pakse International Airport.
BANGKOK, 25 December 2023: Elite Havens, Asia’s leading luxury holiday experience provider and a subsidiary of Dusit International, recently celebrated its 25th anniversary, marking a significant milestone in the company’s journey from a Bali-based business to a renowned curator of extraordinary escapes across the most coveted destinations.
From the birth of travel tech to the rise of travel bloggers, Elite Havens has consistently adapted to changing consumer preferences and technological advancements. Notably, Elite Havens played a pioneering role in nurturing the trend of peer reviews, leveraging guest feedback to enhance services and guest experiences continuously, and setting the benchmark for service excellence within the industry.
Today, Elite Havens offers a curated portfolio of nearly 300 private luxury villas and chalets across India, Indonesia, Japan, Thailand, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives. More locations are in the pipeline.
“We are incredibly proud to celebrate 25 years of providing exceptional luxury holiday experiences,” said Rigg. “Throughout our journey, we have embraced technological innovations while maintaining the human touch that sets us apart. Our commitment to delivering bespoke, unparalleled experiences remains unwavering as we continue to cater to the evolving needs of today’s luxury travellers.”
For more information about Elite Havens and to explore its collection of extraordinary properties, please visit www.elitehavens.com.
SINGAPORE, 22 December 2023: Trip.com, a leading online travel agency, presented its Outstanding Hotel Chain Partner” award to ONYX Hospitality Group, a regional hotel management company headquartered in Thailand.
The award recognises leading partners, both regionally and globally, that demonstrate outstanding results in terms of business growth, commercial activities, connectivity, and the successful execution of quality projects alongside Trip.com. This year, Trip.com conferred the award on seven hotel chains worldwide.
BANGKOK, 22 December 2023: As the year draws to a close, digital travel platform Agoda uses AI technology to surprise us with the ultimate top 10 list of global destinations for an unforgettable New Year’s Eve celebration.
We would all guess the iconic fireworks over Sydney Harbour, the legendary Times Square ball drop, revelling the night away in Rio de Janeiro, and the traditions of Edinburgh’s Hogmanay would make the AI headlines. But there is still a surprise — where is Thailand on the list?
This is an AI-generated image created on Midjourney AI.
Agoda associate vice president Enric Casals is an AI believer: “Exploring the boundaries of innovation and the latest technology is the heart of what we do at Agoda, so why not have a little fun with this end-of-year story?
“As recommended by some of the leading AI software of the moment, this list attempts to ignite a sense of wonder amongst aspiring travellers and perhaps even inspire the more spontaneous to book a last-minute getaway on Agoda. Whether it’s a short getaway within Asia or a longer trip to the other side of the world, Agoda provides the best deals.”
Ten Great New Year’s Eve Destinations
Singapore: Marvel at the dazzling fireworks display in Marina Bay and join the vibrant street parties and carnivals.
Bali, Indonesia: Celebrate on the beach with festive fireworks and traditional Balinese performances.
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam: Revel in the festive atmosphere with fireworks over the Saigon River and vibrant nightlife in District 1.
Tokyo, Japan: Embrace the Japanese tradition of watching the year’s first sunrise with cultural celebrations and modern countdown parties.
Sydney, Australia: Experience the world-renowned fireworks display over the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House with family-friendly events and parties.
New York City, USA: Join the masses in Times Square for the iconic ball drop, or choose from countless parties and concerts across the city.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: Immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of Copacabana Beach with samba rhythms and a spectacular fireworks show.
London, England: Watch the night sky light up with fireworks along the River Thames, with various boat parties and events to choose from.
Edinburgh, Scotland: Take part in the historic Hogmanay celebrations, complete with processions, concerts, and the unique Loony Dook tradition (a fancy dress New Year’s Day swim in the chilly Firth of Forth).
Reykjavik, Iceland: Join the locals for community bonfires and a fireworks display set against a snowy landscape, with the chance to see the Northern Lights. Don’t worry. AI missed the volcanic eruptions that are making the headlines this week.
Thailand’s famous New Year destinations missed the AI selection, and we thought Agoda was the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s strategic partner.
Fancy Singapore, Bali, Indonesia, Ho Chi Minh City, and Vietnam pipping Thailand’s destinations to a place on Agoda New Year’s Eve top 10 list.
SINGAPORE, 22 December 2023: Emirates invites customers to experience a touch of Christmas for the whole month of December, with traditional treats and festive fare available across international lounges and a host of delights served inflight, ensuring the 1 million Emirates customers travelling this December fly better throughout the festive season.
Festive feasts across Emirates Lounges
It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas at Emirates Lounges in Dubai, where passengers jetting off to greet family and friends for the holiday season can pause to indulge in some festive fare before boarding. First and Business Class lounges will be serving roasted turkey breast doused in jus and cranberry sauce with glazed chestnuts, brussel sprouts and delicious new potatoes. First Class lounges will have an array of winter desserts – traditional stollen, scrumptious mince pies dashed with vanilla sauce, red currant cheesecake, and melt-in-the-mouth cinnamon profiteroles. In Business Class lounges, Christmas dinner will also be served, alongside tempting desserts of sour cherry confit, Christmas fruit cake, ginger-spiced pear and chocolate praline cake, spiced citrus mandarin confit cake, and a tart and refreshing cranberry sorbet. Visitors to the lounges can warm up with some apple pie and gingerbread ice cream or get cosy with gingerbread lattes or a toffee nut mocha. Customers can also relax with Dilmah’s Christmas iced tea, cocktails and mocktails, or Emirates own mixology with Holly Jolly Christmas, Red Nosed Rudolph and Jack Frost, alongside festive flavoured waters from Evian and Perrier.
Tis the season to be jolly onboard Emirates
Emirates will serve festive meals and snacks in all cabins on select routes for the entire month of December. First, Business and Premium Economy Class customers can indulge in classic Christmas dishes, from lemon and herb marinated king prawns in marie rose sauce, to cured salmon gravadlax with ginger, candied orange and Sevruga caviar. A full festive main course with all the trimmings will be available in all four classes– roasted turkey with classic jus, glazed chestnuts, braised red cabbage, roasted pumpkin, steamed brussel sprouts and creamy potato gratin. Desserts include a variety of delectable dishes – Christmas pudding with a generous dollop of crème anglaise, white chocolate cake with raspberry curd, or a spiced cranberry cake in the shape of Santa’s belt. Economy Class passengers will also have a moreish Christmas meal featuring roasted turkey or chicken roulade with chestnut stuffing, roasted potatoes with parsley, a medley of seasonal vegetables, followed by a sumptuous fruit cake and orange sauce.
For December, customers in First and Business Class will be offered the Emirates spiced strawberry welcome drink, and First Class customers will also get a miniature Santa Claus creatively crafted from strawberries and white chocolate cream. From 17-26 December, customers in all classes will be offered a festive hot chocolate heaped with melting marshmallows and First Class customers can opt for aromatic mulled wine. From 24-26 December, Emirates will be offering mini gifts of pistachio and raspberry profiteroles, dark chocolate truffles and gingerbread cookies across the various cabin classes.
In the A380 onboard lounge, customers departing Dubai can relax with some fragrantly spiced mulled wine or hot chocolate and munch on some mince pies, stollen, panettone, Christmas pastries, as well as traditional mandarins and chestnuts, biscotti and candy canes. This year, customers visiting the onboard lounge can also grab a Christmas sandwich stuffed with turkey, roast beef, cheddar cheese, cranberry sauce and chilli tomato relish.
Happy Orthodox Christmas from Emirates
From 20 December to 8 January, Emirates will also celebrate Orthodox Christmas on flights from Russia, Egypt and Ethiopia to Dubai and back. Customers in First Class will be treated to salmon gravadlax with ginger and candied orange or King prawn cocktail, followed by roasted duck with orange thyme jus, fondant potatoes and steamed broccolini, and a dessert of classic Christmas pudding with crème anglaise or traditional bread and butter pudding. Business Class customers will also enjoy a roasted duck main course, with starters of Olivier salad, and desserts of white chocolate and cranberry cake or spiced cranberry cheesecake. Economy Class customers will enjoy starters of Russian potato salad followed by a turkey roulade or beef stroganoff, finished with a dessert of moist fruit cake soaked in zesty orange sauce. On 1 January, customers will also be offered creamy hot chocolate or mulled wine, along with some Emirates festive treats.
The Season of Giving
Grab some last-minute gifts as EmiratesRED launches a 4-day sale from 15-18 December, offering customers 15% off when they spend a minimum of USD 150. New luxury products launched on EmiratesRED include Creed Carmina, Loewe Esencia, the Seiko Sport Automatic Watch and the Luminox Leatherback Watch, iconic La Mer The Moisturizing Cream and Dr Levy – Contour Pro Sculpting Set, or the new Bowers & Wilkins Pi7 S2 Earbuds. The EmiratesRED pre-order service is available on most flights. It allows customers to shop from 21 days up to 40 hours before their flight, provide flight details during checkout, and then receive the order delivered by cabin crew directly to their seat while in the air.
A range of Christmas keepsakes are for sale at the Emirates Official Store, where the 2023 Christmas collection features Emirates branded bags, mugs, Camel Milk soaps with a mulberry red fruit scent, Emirates Christmas jumpers and matching family pyjamas, Christmas décor and greeting cards. Passengers can also use Skywards Miles to make purchases at the online store.
Customers can also celebrate the true meaning of Christmas and give back with Emirates Airline Foundation, which is dedicated to improving the lives of underprivileged children. Emirates customers can donate in any currency on any flight by using the envelope in the seat pocket or via credit card, cheque, or bank transfer, inflight or from home. The foundation also accepts Skywards Miles, with 95% of donations directly assisting children in need.
HONG KONG, 22 December 2023: Cathay Pacific released its traffic figures for November 2023 earlier this week, confirming the airline carried 1,633,145 passengers in November 2023, an increase of 210% compared with November 2022.
The month’s revenue passenger kilometres (RPKs) increased 148.2% year-on-year. Passenger load factor increased by 2.1 percentage points to 80.5%, while available seat kilometres (ASKs) increased by 141.9% year-on-year. In the first 11 months of 2023, the number of passengers carried increased by 709.2% against a 393.2% increase in ASKs and a 499.7% increase in RPKs, compared to the same period for 2022
Travel
Cathay Pacific’s chief customer and commercial officer Lavinia Lau said: “November is typically a slower month for our travel business. Our routes to and from the US saw reduced demand before Thanksgiving week, with less business and leisure travel around the holiday period. There were no public holidays in November, so leisure travel from Hong Kong across the network was also generally softer.
“Nevertheless, there were some bright spots within the network, including our India routes, which saw strong Diwali traffic. Our Japan routes also saw good leisure demand for the autumn leaves.”
Outlook
“We are very excited to have welcomed several recent developments that further enhance the intermodal travel experience from the Greater Bay Area. The first was opening our first-ever Cathay Pacific ferry lounge at the Shekou Cruise Home Port in Shenzhen in November, enabling customers travelling via ferry codeshare to enjoy a premium lounge experience before their journey. The second was the launch of the ‘Fly-Via-Zhuhai-HK’ passenger service by the Airport Authority Hong Kong in December, which enables seamless connection via Hong Kong International Airport using the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge without the need for border control clearance in Hong Kong.
“Meanwhile, this December will mark the first Christmas holiday period since Hong Kong’s borders fully reopened, and we are very pleased to see that travel demand remains strong.
“Our seasonal Christchurch service returned this month – it was our first seasonal restart since the pandemic, and the response from our customers has been encouraging. We are also delighted to return our first-class service on our popular New York (JFK) flights CX830/CX831 starting from 31 March 2024.”
ABU DHABI, UAE, 22 December 2023: Experience Abu Dhabi, the destination brand of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, has unveiled Find Your Pace, a brand new global campaign.
In a press statement released Wednesday, the department said:
“Find Your Pace, Experience Abu Dhabi ignites curiosity and encourages visitors to create their own unique journey, from the known to the unknown, through ancient heritage sites and iconic modern treasures.”
Photo credit: Experience Abu Dhabi.
Find Your Pace follows four characters as they explore Abu Dhabi for the first time, taking journeys that inspire, excite, and restore. Destination highlights include the tranquil Al Ain Oasis, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, inspiring Qasr Al Watan, and renowned Louvre Abu Dhabi, as well as the vast Green Mubazzarah and the Al Wathba Fossil Dunes, estimated to be over four million years old.
