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Etihad and TAP Air team up with codeshares

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TTR WEEKLY
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SINGAPORE, 7 December 2023: Etihad Airways and TAP Air Portugal are rolling out codeshare flights that deliver connectivity for passengers of both airlines to a raft of destinations in each other’s networks.

The partnership provides Etihad’s customers easy one-stop access to destinations across the TAP network. These include cities such as Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo in Brazil and San Francisco and Miami in the USA.

Photo credit: Etihad Airways.

Additionally, the enchanting African resort island of São Tomé is among the picturesque locations available through this collaboration, and customers can also connect with Madeira, Malaga, Seville, and Valencia in Europe, as well as Marrakech and Dakar in Africa.

The codeshare lets guests streamline their journeys by making a single booking with one check-in process at the start and the added convenience of transferring their baggage to their final destination.

Etihad’s chief revenue officer Arik De said: “This collaboration provides our guests with convenient one-stop access to 26 of TAP’s fantastic leisure and business destinations.

“Equally, it expands the choices available to TAP customers travelling from Europe to Abu Dhabi, allowing them to explore our home’s inviting hospitality and rich culture and seamlessly connect to a selection of our destinations in the GCC and Seychelles.

The agreement follows the start of Etihad’s non-stop services to Lisbon earlier this year. It enables both Etihad and TAP customers to connect to each other’s network through Frankfurt and London Heathrow.

As well as connecting customers to Etihad’s network, it will make it even easier for visitors to visit Abu Dhabi with its enthralling array of attractions, ranging from the Louvre Abu Dhabi architectural masterpiece to adrenaline-filled adventures at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi.

The new codeshare came into effect on 5 December 2023.

MH launches Ahmedabad flights

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TTR WEEKLY
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KUALA LUMPUR, 7 December 2023: Malaysia Airlines introduced flights from Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport (AMD) in Ahmedabad, India, with a send-off ceremony at KLIA on 1 December. 

Flight MH106 took off on its maiden journey to AMD at 1850 local time. The airline schedules four weekly flights departing on Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday.

Photo credit: Malaysia Airlines.

The send-off event was attended by Captain Nasaruddin A. Bakar, Chief Operating Officer of Malaysia Airlines; Dersenish Aresandiran, Chief Commercial Officer of Airlines (MAG); together with senior officials from MAG and Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (MAHB). 

With the addition of this new route, Malaysia Airlines now offers point-to-point connectivity from Kuala Lumpur to nine key destinations in India, providing passengers with increased options for travel between the two countries. 

The airline already operates direct flights to New Delhi, Bengaluru, Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kochi, Amritsar and Trivandrum. In addition, the airline also recently announced that beginning 15 January 2024, it will be increasing its frequency to Amritsar from two times weekly to four times weekly following strong demands and load factor performance.

Flight schedule

Türkiye and Vietnam Ink air partnership

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TTR WEEKLY
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DUBAI, 7 December 2023: Turkish Airlines signed a Letter of Intent with Vietnam Airlines in Ankara on Tuesday, adding yet another new partnership to its portfolio of global collaborations. 

The signing ceremony held at the Presidential Complex on Tuesday was witnessed by Cevdet Yılmaz, Vice President of Türkiye and Pham Minh Chinh, Prime Minister of Vietnam. At the signing, Turkish Airlines was represented by chief executive officer Bilal Ekşi and chief cargo officer Turhan Özen. Vietnam Airlines was represented by Vietnam Airlines’ chairman of the Board of Directors Dang Ngoc Hoa.

The signing ceremony at the Presidential Complex witnessed by Cevdet Yılmaz, Vice President of Türkiye and Pham Minh Chinh, Prime Minister of Vietnam.

The agreement sets the foundation for a collaboration between the two airlines, starting with cargo. A subsidiary of Turkish Airlines, Turkish Cargo is assessing collaboration opportunities in Asia, a continent of strategic importance and high potential. 

Turkish Airlines CEO Bilal Ekşi commented: “Asia is one of our key markets at Turkish Airlines. Our efforts to increase our presence on this prominent continent continue unabated with our competent teams and R&D activities. These efforts are even more meaningful in an era where global aviation is shifting from West to East. I hope our collaboration with Vietnam Airlines will be beneficial and fruitful for both countries and flag carriers.”

The partnership will initially focus on air cargo operations of both flag carriers to explore different commercial dimensions in the near future. 

About Turkish Airlines

Established in 1933 with a fleet of five aircraft, Star Alliance member Turkish Airlines has a fleet of 437 (passenger and cargo) aircraft flying to 345 worldwide destinations (292 international and 53 domestic) in 129 countries. 

Jetstar Asia wings to Okinawa

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TTR WEEKLY
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SINGAPORE, 7 December 2023: Jetstar Asia has resumed direct flights from Singapore to Okinawa, becoming the only airline to fly nonstop between Singapore and Japan’s stunning island holiday destination.

Using an A320 aircraft, the airline serves the route with three weekly flights departing Changi Airport at 0218 (SGT), and arriving in Naha Airport just after 0830 (JST). The resumption of Jetstar Asia’s second Japanese route follows the relaunch of services to Osaka a week earlier.

The Singapore low-cost carrier offers more than 54,000 low fares between popular destinations each year, responding to increasing demand and helping revitalise travel between Singapore and Japan.

Jetstar Asia CEO Barathan Pasupathi commented: “Japan remains high on the wish list for many travellers, and we are committed to expanding our network, enhancing connectivity, supporting tourism and helping our customers create incredible memories”.

Okinawa Prefectural Government Singapore Representative Office, Director Heat Ikehara welcomed Jetstar back to Okinawa, saying, 

“Okinawa is the closest part of Japan to Singapore and offers a unique mix of various cultures and untouched nature, such as the World Natural Heritage Site of Yanbaru and Iriomote Island, which is surrounded by crystal-clear blue sea.”

Japan National Tourism Organisation Singapore Representative Office executive director Takuya Shiraishi said the long-awaited flight connectivity between Singapore and Okinawa was a strong start. 

“We believe that more and more visitors from Singapore will be able to discover the charms of Okinawa and the hidden gems of Japan,” Shiraishi added.  

New JW Resort underway in Bohol

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TTR WEEKLY
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MANILA, 6 December 2023: The Philippines Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco visited Panglao earlier this week for the groundbreaking of the JW Marriott Panglao Island Resort and Residences in Bohol Province.

The secretary’s visit coincided with Bohol being declared the country’s first-ever UNESCO Global Geopark.

Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco congratulates hotel developer Apple One.

“On behalf of the Department of Tourism, I congratulate this beautiful island province of Bohol, JW Marriott, and Apple One on this milestone. The groundbreaking signals confidence in the Philippines and its continued resurgence in global tourism,” the tourism chief said in her address. 

She stressed that the government’s vision is not just for the country to recover after the devastating effects of the pandemic but to transform and elevate the quality of tourism offerings for the Philippines and to push for investments to come to the country.

She cited the JW Marriott Resort and Residence under development in Bohol province as a signal “that the country is ready to take its place as Asia’s next tourism powerhouse.”

She also assured local stakeholders that the current administration will continue to strengthen the foundation for tourism by investing in infrastructure, connectivity, and digitalisation and introducing innovation to the country’s tourism portfolio. 

Colliers reported earlier in November that AppleOne Group, the developer of  Bohol’s newest hotel property, has signed a management with Marriott International for the JW Marriott Residences in Panglao Island, Bohol, which is located on a seven-hectare site with views of Maribojoc Bay.

Construction of the first five-star hotel development in Bohol should begin during the first quarter of 2023.

Goa is a rising star for Elite Havens

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TTR WEEKLY
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BANGKOK, 6 December 2023: Elite Havens, Asia’s premier luxury villa rental company, has expanded its curated selection of more than 300 private luxury villas and chalets across Asia’s most awe-inspiring locations by introducing 32 new properties in Goa, India.

Signed in collaboration with India’s leading luxury vacation home rental company, Lohono Stays by Isprava, the new properties each feature a pool and expansive living spaces with restored heritage furniture, offering exclusivity, privacy, and India’s renowned hospitality.  

Lauded for its long coastline, lush countryside, vibrant culture, and laid-back lifestyle, Goa beckons discerning travellers seeking exceptional experiences. With a dedicated team committed to crafting immersive local experiences, Elite Havens seamlessly links guests with an array of must-do activities – from the exploration of historic cathedrals and ancient forts to delighting in the rich flavours of local delicacies and meandering through fragrant spice plantations. 

Maya Rigg.

“Goa’s charm as a holiday destination lies in its accessibility and its capacity to cater to diverse tastes and preferences, making it a destination of choice for those seeking a tantalising food scene, cultural fusion, and a climate that promises a diverse and enriching experience,” said Elite Havens chief executive officer Maya Rigg.

“We are delighted to continue our thriving collaboration with Lohono Stays to offer discerning travellers access to Goa’s most exceptional holiday homes, ensuring they can experience the many wonders of this beautiful destination in the utmost comfort and convenience.”

Each villa in the collection was curated by Rigg together with Elite Havens cluster manager for Indonesia, India, and Sri Lanka, Alan Porteous. 

On the new additions, Porteous commented: “These exclusive villas represent the pinnacle of comfort and sophistication, each a masterpiece of architectural design and elegance. From the moment you step into Villa Athena, a two-storey contemporary masterpiece, Estate de Alta Palmiera, offering lakehouse living, or Glasshouse on the Bay, a one-of-a-kind home built right on the edge of the water, you are enveloped in opulence and refinement that mirrors the grandeur of Goa’s cultural heritage. Each property in the collection has something special to offer discerning visitors.” 

Mumbai serves as the major international entry point to India for Elite Havens’ core guest markets, including UK and Middle Eastern guests. Upon arriving in Mumbai, guests can take a brief domestic flight to reach the vibrant shores of Goa. 

Elite Havens’ commitment to exceptional service includes offering comprehensive information to guests to help plan their journey, including booking private transfers and ongoing transportation throughout the stay.  

“In a country known for its vibrant colours and warm hospitality, we invite everyone to explore the remarkable contrasts that make India truly unique, and we have everything in place to ensure visitors can see India in a different light,” said Rigg. 

For more information about the new properties, please visit www.elitehavens.com/india-private-villas/.  
Elite Havens’ article about the nine best things to see and do in Goa is available here. 

About Elite Havens Luxury Villa Rentals and Management  

For 20 years, Elite Havens has been a trusted name in luxury villa rentals and management, consistently offering travellers an escape from the ordinary. With a curated portfolio of nearly 300 private luxury villas and chalets across Asia’s most awe-inspiring destinations, Elite Havens specialises in crafting extraordinary experiences that transcend the commonplace.

Centara strengthens its Ops Team

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TTR WEEKLY
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BANGKOK, 6 December 2023: Centara Hotels & Resorts, a leading hotel operator headquartered in Thailand, has strengthened its executive management team with the appointment of Michael Henssler as its new chief operating officer.

He will oversee the expansion of the company’s diverse global portfolio and support the creation of exceptional guest journeys by blending innovation with Centara’s timeless Thai hospitality.

A hotel industry expert with almost 30 years of experience, Henssler has held senior leadership positions in Europe, the Middle East, and China. A prestigious École Hôtelière de Lausanne graduate, he has enjoyed a stellar career, mainly with Kempinski, the leading European luxury hotel group. Most recently, he was Kempinski’s chief operating officer – Asia.

As chief operating officer of Centara, Henssler will oversee the company’s commercial, operations, and development divisions. Working alongside the senior executive team, he will add considerable value to the business, helping Centara to double its total portfolio and achieve its five-year goal of becoming a top 100 global hotel operator by 2027. He will strive to deliver new hotel management contracts in dynamic destinations and exciting new international markets through Centara’s collection of six brands and new sectors, including branded residences and wellness retreats.

“Centara is an outstanding company with a proud history and a bright future. It has a balanced portfolio of six distinct hotel brands, all of which have significant potential for growth. Coming from a large family, I deeply admire Centara’s commitment to family values and heartfelt Thai hospitality. I look forward to helping the group extend its warm welcome to even more guests around the world,” commented Henssler.

“I am delighted to welcome Michael to the Centara family. With such an impressive career – including extensive experience in key markets such as China and the Middle East – and a proven track record of achieving exceptional results, he is the perfect person to help our company reach our goal of becoming a top 100 global hotel group,” said Centara Hotels & Resorts chief executive officer Thirayuth Chirathivat.

To learn more about Centara Hotels & Resorts, visit www.centarahotelsresorts.com.

Jazeera taps India’s travel market

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TTR WEEKLY
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MUMBAI, India, 6 December 2023: Kuwait-based low-cost carrier Jazeera Airways recently hosted an event in Mumbai for social media influencers and travel agents to officially announce the arrival of its new social media platforms focusing on India’s travel market. 

Andrew Ward commented: Social media and the partnership with influencers are at the heart of our marketing programmes at Jazeera. We have recently run two successful influencer trips to Turkey and Kuwait, as well as working with individual influencers on other destinations.” 

Photo credit: Jazeera Airways.

He noted that Jazeera India’s Facebook and Instagram platforms  would “engage with influencers, customers and trade partners featuring locally relevant content.”

Jazeera Airways regional manager- South Asia Romana Parvi emphasised the role of loyal travel agents who have played an integral role in Jazeera’s journey. 

“We are extremely grateful to all our loyal travel trade agents. We look forward to their continued support in the years ahead.” 

She went on to share the airline’s vision of expanding to newer destinations and initiating operations from additional Indian gateways in the future.

Currently, Jazeera Airways connects India to a global network, serving 64 popular destinations across the Middle East, Central and South Asia, Africa, and Europe. In a nod to planned expansion, the airline took delivery of two additional aircraft in the last quarter, operating a fleet of 22 across its network. Jazeera also embraced sustainability, becoming the first Middle East low-cost carrier to switch to eco-friendly in-flight food service ware, reducing 300 kilograms of plastic monthly and aligning with a net-zero emissions goal by 2050. The airline has also partnered with Expliseat to install 2,000 ultra-lightweight seating options across its Airbus fleet. These seats will deliver a substantial weight saving of 1.2 metric tons per aircraft.

Jazeera eyes growth in new destinations and initiatives in countries like Iran, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, and Eastern Europe.

Reimagining Singapore’s Chinatown

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TTR WEEKLY
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SINGAPORE, 6 December 2023: Singapore’s iconic Smith Street, located in the Chinatown conservation area, is tagged for a massive remake project to rejuvenate its terraced shophouses and an adjacent shopping mall.

The Singapore Land Authority (SLA), Singapore Tourism Board (STB) and Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) jointly launched a collective tender last week to appoint a master tenant to work with local stakeholders such as the Chinatown precinct stakeholders and the Chinese Community Liaison Group. It calls for a master plan to restore the area and drive greater footfall through community programmes while preserving its cultural and architectural heritage.

Photo credit: Singapore Land Authority.

The Chinatown conservation area tells the story of Singapore’s Chinese heritage and is a signature destination where both international visitors and locals can experience local culture through traditional festivals and celebrations, performances, dining and heritage offerings. 

In its early days, Smith Street was known as hei yuen kai (Cantonese for Theatre Street) due to its reputation for Chinese Opera, attracting packed audiences and patrons. The rejuvenation project presents an opportunity to rekindle that vibrancy by launching regular community programming at the adjacent pedestrian mall. Community and grassroots organisations will also be able to continue celebrating festive occasions along the street.

Tenderers are required to conceptualise the long-term planning of the space with clear financial and visitorship projections in support of the proposed business plan. The successful tenderer will be offered an upfront tenure of five years, renewable for a second term of four years. The tender opened for 12 weeks on 30 November 2023. 

New route to link Sabah and Seoul

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TTR WEEKLY
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KUALA LUMPUR, 6 December 2023: AirAsia reaffirms Kota Kinabalu as its second-largest hub in Malaysia by launching its new route connecting Kota Kinabalu to Seoul (Incheon), South Korea. 

With the addition of Seoul, AirAsia Malaysia (AK) will schedule 18 routes with 282 flights weekly to and from Kota Kinabalu, effective March 2024.

Photo credit: AirAsia.

The new route, Kota Kinabalu- Seoul, will commence on 4 March 2024 with daily flights, making it even easier for travellers to explore both destinations.

The airline’s 5 December announcement comes on the heels of an impressive surge in Korean tourists visiting Sabah. According to recent data, Sabah welcomed about 150,000 Korean tourists this year, signalling a significant increase in Korean visitors to the state. In addition, Koreans have now become one of Sabah’s top visitors, emphasising their growing interest in the state’s natural beauty and unique cultural experiences.

AirAsia Malaysia CEO Riad Asmat commented: “We are thrilled to be the first Malaysian airline to connect Kota Kinabalu directly to Seoul. This route holds immense potential for both leisure and business travellers, offering them affordable access to two remarkable tourism destinations. The launch of this route also aligns with our vision of connecting communities across Asia, fostering economic growth, and enhancing regional integration. 

“With this expansion, AirAsia further cements Kota Kinabalu as our second-largest hub in Malaysia with nine domestic and nine international destinations, boosting the city’s status as a vibrant aviation hub. The route launch is also poised to contribute significantly to the growth of tourism and trade in Kota Kinabalu.”

AirAsia offers special promotional fares for travellers from Kota Kinabalu to Seoul with all-in* fares from MYR349 one-way as part of the route launch. The promotional fare is available for booking on Airasia Superapp and the website starting today until 24 December 2023 for the travel period between 4 March and 26 October 2024.

*The all-in fare is for one-way travel only and includes airport tax, MAVCOM fee, fuel surcharge, and other applicable fees.

Flight schedule between Kota Kinabalu (BKI) and Seoul – Incheon (ICN):

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