10 countries perfect for a backpacking trip
Ever get the urge to grab your backpack and go explore new places, new cultures and meet new people? Backpacking is an amazing way to see the world without the expensive price tag.
Browsing Category
Singapore
SCOOT is now member of IATA billing and settlement plan for India
Scoot has announced that it has become a member of the IATA Billing and Settlement Plan (BSP) under the prefix 668. The BSP Payment is available to partner agents on major Global…
RedDoorz raises USD 70m from investors including Rakuten to battle Softbank-backed OYO
Singapore-based hotel start-up RedDoorz has raised USD 70 million from investors, including Japanese e-commerce giant Rakuten.
Singapore tourism receipts in Q1 dip 4.8% amid global economic uncertainty
Spending by visitors to Singapore fell 4.8% to SGD 6.5 billion (USD 4.69 billion), in the first quarter of 2019, compared to the same period last year, although international arrivals…
New luxury hotspot for adventure seekers opens
Hotel Soloha, a 45-room boutique hotel nestled in the rich cultural neighbourhood of Keong Saik, is the newest bolthole for dreamers and adventure-seekers in Singapore.
Hotel Soloha…
Global Wellness Summit shifts location from Hong Kong to Singapore
The Global Wellness Summit (GWS), the foremost gathering of international leaders in the USD4.2 trillion global wellness economy, today announced the location of the 2019 GWS will move from…
QANTAS opens updated business lounge at Changi Airport
Australian carrier QANTAS announced that it flung open the doors of its newly expanded, refurbished and updated Business Lounge this week.
Qantas International Acting CEO Mr Naren Kumar…
Australia and Europe on Vistara’s radar
Vistara, a joint venture between Tata Sons and Singapore Airlines (SIA), is all set to start long-haul international flights to destinations in Europe and Australia next year. The airline…
Vietjet, Swift247 and Grab ink pact to boost transport mobility and delivery
Airline Vietjet, Grab and Swift247, a startup providing super express air delivery service, have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on the comprehensive cooperation to develop…
Singapore welcomes Vistara’s debut flights
The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) welcomed passengers on board Vistara’s inaugural international flights from Delhi and Mumbai with a taste of Singaporean hospitality, this week. The…
SIA and Amex launch first SME business travel card
American Express and Singapore Airlines have announced the extension of their partnership to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Singapore today, in light of survey results…
Return of the legend: Iconic Raffles Singapore reopens
Raffles Singapore has officially reopened, heralding an exciting new chapter in the iconic property's rich history and heritage. A flagship property within Accor, Raffles Singapore is…
On the growth route: Scoot to add 16 new Airbus to fleet
Singapore Airlines' budget arm Scoot, has announced the introduction of 16 brand-new A321neo aircraft into its fleet. The first aircraft, named Wings of Change, will be delivered in the…
Jetstar adds fifth Service to Okinawa
Jetstar Asia, the only airline to provide direct scheduled flights between Singapore and Okinawa, will boost its services between the two cities from four to five return flights a week,…
Bold thoughts, bold moves: ITB Asia unveils latest conference theme
Travel trade show ITB Asia, is set to deliver another year of thought-provoking and inspiring content to industry practitioners as part of its conference programme. Themed ‘Bold…
Agoda woos budget busters with hotel “hacker-rates”
Booking Holdings subsidiary Agoda, an OTA which dominates the Asian market, has announced the launch of a sexy new feature, which should prove very alluring to the hyper budget-conscious…
Singapore Tourism Board hosts 8-city road show
Singapore Tourism recently organised roadshows in eight cities to woo visitors from India. The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) brought together 45 tourism stakeholders in Trivandrum,…
Opening doors to affordable hospitality: RedDoorz to achieve 1 million occupied room nights by year-end
Southeast Asia’s hotel management and booking platform, RedDoorz announced it will reach 1 million occupied room nights by December 2019, a result of the business doubling in size every…
Vistara’s first international flight to Singapore from Delhi in August
Vistara is commencing its international operations with its maiden flights to Singapore from Delhi and Mumbai.
The full-service carrier owned by Tata Sons and Singapore Airlines will…
Singapore showcases culinary prowess
The Singapore Food Festival (SFF) 2019 is back for its 26th edition, showcasing the top chefs, culinary innovation and unique flavours of the vibrant food capital.
SFF, Singapore’s…
STB boosts Singapore-based content creators
The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) announced the five winning projects for Fast Forward, its fund for Singapore-based content creators.
Fast Forward was launched in October last year…
Etiqa unveils online travel insurance for transit travellers in Singapore
Transit travellers in Singapore can now enjoy travel protection with the enhanced Tiq Travel Insurance by Etiqa. The digital-first insurer provides online travel insurance for foreigners…
Luxury hotspot: Accor to grow the Raffles brand in Asia, adds Bali and Sentosa in portfolio
Since acquiring the legendary Raffles brand in 2016, the French hospitality group Accor has announced plans to almost double the iconic collection, with recent openings including Raffles…
SIA Engineering and Airbus complete first cabin retrofit for Singapore Airlines
SIA Engineering Company (SIAEC) in collaboration with Airbus Services has recently completed the first of 14 A380 full-cabin retrofits for Singapore Airlines (SIA). This extensive…
Rosewood Hotel Group CEO Sonia Cheng on not following the trends
As she walked the stage for her Q&A at the Skift Forum in Singapore last month, I get the feeling that Rosewood Hotel Group CEO Sonia Cheng, walking on her red soles, meant business. In…
Jewel Changi Airport unveils Canopy Park and aviation-themed attraction
Following the opening of Jewel Changi Airport (Jewel) in April this year, the much-awaited Canopy Park attractions and new aviation-themed attraction Changi Experience Studio are also…
Octa founder Zara Khanna is a little girl with big dreams
Move and give way! Zara Khanna is on her way to conquer the travel tech industry with travel chatbot Octa that helps kids and parents find cool things to do and epic places to visit when…
Vistara to launch overseas flights in second half of 2019
Full-service carrier Vistara plans to launch international services in the second half of this year. A joint venture between Tata and Singapore Airlines, Vistara might also look at…
My sweet Netflix Streetfood-fame Putu Piring experience
Putu piring reflects the image of Singapore being a melting pot of different nationalities.
Klook’s top 3 babymoon destinations
Online travel agency Klook has unveiled some of the brilliant baby-friendly destinations around the world
Banyan Tree to debut pod-shaped rooms, treehouses in Singapore
Banyan Tree Holdings has announced its first resort in Singapore, featuring 338 eco-friendly rooms and 24 elevated tree houses.
CWT M&E lines up future candidates for “Singapore’s thriving MICE sector”
Events specialists, CWT M&E, has signed up a new education partner, Kaplan Higher Education Academy (KHEA), part of Kaplan in Singapore, as part of efforts to boost the prospects of…
Capella Bangkok to greet guests ‘sawadee ka’ later this year
Capella Bangkok is set to open its doors later this year. The Capella Hotel Group will bring its signature ultra-luxury concept and design in the heart of Thailand along the banks of Chao…
IHCL to invest USD 600 million in key Indian destinations
The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL), (owners of the iconic The Taj Mahal Palace Hotel in Mumbai, above) has announced a strategic partnership with Singapore’s sovereign wealth fund, GIC…
Eat, drink and be merry! Park Regis brings back #sginsiders heritage food trail
If you are a fan of Netflix’s new series Street Food and is bound to Singapore, Park Regis is bringing back #sginsiders trail that will take guests for a culinary spin to taste authentic…
Neuron scoots in Bangkok
I first saw the orange scooters parked right outside Park Regis Singapore when I stayed there. Now, it will be seen cruising the streets of Bangkok.
Grab enters travel space with hotel booking feature
Ride-hailing company Grab has announced its new hotel booking feature along with other three in-app services.
Travel tech this week: Uber’s “Women Preferred View” and more
This week, we saw incredible features from the ride-hailing and car rental sector. Following Saudi Arabia’s grant license to drive to women, Uber launches women-only drivers. Meanwhile,…
Park Regis Singapore review: “Our motto is simple, making guests happy”
When I travel for business, I look for two things in my accommodation – convenience in terms of location and great service.
IN PHOTOS: Singapore unveils Jewel Changi Airport
Singapore, where its airport is a prime tourist attraction, has welcomed the public to its latest development called Jewel Changi Airport, a sprawling complex built to increase Changi's…
Digital Travel APAC 2019 focuses on disruption in industries
The tech possibilities in the travel industry are virtually limitless and travel companies must live with the expectations of customers in order to provide the most effective experience.
How NTUC Income “reimagined” travel insurance
Travel insurance firm NTUC Income, has come up with a new way of making sure travellers are protected against the seemingly random and unpredictable nature of airline’s tickets prices, which…
Grab Philippines launches water delivery service amid water crisis
Ride-railing firm Grab Philippines offers a water delivery service in water-deprived city of Marikina.
“Customised touchpoints”: The Outpost Hotel at Sentosa joins SLH
Global luxe accommodation group Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH) has announced that The Outpost Hotel at Sentosa is now a member of their properties.
Shop now, pay later: Grab pushes for post-paid payment feature
Grab is the first ride-hailing platform that is giving banks a run for their money. The Singapore-based start-up has announced new fintech features focusing on SME micro-loans and insurtech…
Veni, vidi, vici: Direct Booking Summit Singapore 2019
The last week in February saw the arrival of the Direct Booking Summit at the Fullerton Hotel in Singapore, the seventh edition since the inaugural event in 2016.
RedDoorz to raise USD 50 million in Series B round
Singapore-based budget hotel operator RedDoorz is raising up to USD 50 million for its Series B financing round.
Crown jewel of Singapore: Changi Airport lifestyle hub opens on 17 April
Singapore is building a multi-dimensional tourist complex, Jewel Changi Airport, and will open its doors on 17 April.
Unstoppable: Grab receives USD 1.5 billion fund
Yes, Grab is unstoppable as it just added another USD 1.5 billion in its stash by raising USD 1.46 billion from SoftBank’s USD 100 billion Vision Fund.
Drive safe: Go-Jek partners with Doctor Anywhere
Go-Jek cares for the welfare of its drivers in Singapore as it partners with local start-up Doctor Anywhere.
Grab allows users to cancel rides for free, but there’s a catch
Starting 11 March, Grab users can cancel rides for free within five minutes after booking.
Hawker Calling: SG street food legend returns to London
Singaporean street food legend, Hawker Chan, and A Noodle Story will bring their signature dishes to London for a ‘taste of Singapore’ this March.
Grab teases on big partnerships this year
Grab is not yet done as the ride-hailing app Grab has plans to expand into business ranging from health care to insurance to video streaming through big partnerships and raised funding.
Singapore Airlines reassures passengers that they’re not spying on them
Singapore Airlines has reassured passengers that the tiny cameras attached to the in-flight entertainment system on some of its planes are deactivated.
These OTAs put element of surprise in travel
Anywhr and ATO Tours are two companies that are continents apart, but are sending travellers on surprise trips.
Bengaluru’s first A350 to Singapore
The Silicon valley of India, Bengaluru is set to get its first ever A350 medium haul aircraft experience as Singapore Airlines introduces the aircraft on the Bengaluru to Singapore sector.
Virtual Realty: Qantas unveils 3D images of multi-million dollar First Lounge
Back in October Qantas announced plans for a new multi-million dollar First Lounge, as well as the expansion of it the airlines business lounge product, at Singapore Changi Airport. Now,…
The long and the short of it: Ascott’s Brian Tan on the shifting serviced apartment market
A couple of weeks ago TD reported the news that serviced apartment specialists Ascott Limited, had experienced unprecedented growth. I spoke to country general manager for Thailand, Brian…
MICE: When 12 heads are better than one
BestCities Global Alliance, a community of 12 cities around the world, dedicated to the betterment of international conferences and meetings, believes, naturally, that the right partner is…
Netflix and ride? Grab adds a streaming service to its app
Grab added Netflix-like video-on-demand service HOOQ into its core ride-hailing app. The company, which is valued at USD 11 billion and raising a USD 5 billion round, already offers a range…
Klook couples Old World train travel with new-school tech
Klook, the Hong Kong tour and experiences booking app which has been making waves throughout Asia for the last 18 months, has entered into a new relationship with Rail Europe, bound to cause…
Travelstop marks major expansion in Asia
Singapore-based business travel start-up Travelstop is launching in seven markets including Indonesia, Thailand, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Japan, South Korea and Vietnam.
GrabJobs disrupts old school recruitment process in SEA
Finding a job has never been this easy for both job seekers and employers. Singapore-based GrabJobs is making a fuss in the recruitment scene with their interview chatbot technology.
Klook and CoopCulture’s “big step” towards digitising Italy
Travel activities, services and tour booking platform Klook, has announced its brand new global partnership with CoopCulture, an official national tour operator in Italy.
Oakwood: Welcome to the showroom of tomorrow
Oakwood, specialists in fully furnished accommodation solutions, has announced the opening of its brand new display space, The Oakwood Showroom in Singapore, to put a spotlight on new tech…
Go-Jek operates in Singapore after roadblock in the Philippines
Indonesian unicorn Go-Jek has opened its app to passengers in Singapore after it hits a roadblock in the Philippines.
20/20 Vision: Wyndham’s APAC president’s plans for 2019 and beyond
Following the Wyndham Hotels & Resorts split from parent company Wyndham Worldwide earlier this year, it was necessary to install a new head honcho for APAC. Opting to recruit internally…
Traveloka reportedly acquires PegiPegi and two other rivals for USD 66.8 million
A report has surfaced that the Indonesian travel tech unicorn Traveloka has long acquired some of its rivals in Southeast Asia through a Singapore-based shell company named Jet Tech…
SIA: Key pillar of digital transformation will “truly transform the way offers are created”
Amadeus and Singapore Airlines (SIA) have unveiled their upgraded partnership this morning with the announcement that the airline has fully integrated the Amadeus Altéa NDC and Amadeus…
Singapore Airlines uses real time data feedback to take control
Singapore Airlines (SIA) launched its brand new operations management system today.
IATA suspends Zuji’s air booking license
Zuji, an online travel booking platform has abruptly stalled its airline booking operations in Singapore and Hong Kong.
SBC Travel yearns to streamline payments in travel with blockchain
SBC Travel hasn’t been launched officially yet, but it already gained a lot of traction due to its recent acquisitions.
Preferred Hotels unveils 23 worldwide hotels for 2019
Preferred Hotels unveil the latest properties to be added throughout next year.
The duty-three: SIA’s new joint-venture sinks USD 35 million into KrisShop
Singapore Airlines (SIA) has revealed that it will be launching KrisShop Pte Ltd, in collaboration with 3Sixty (formerly DFASS Group) and SATS (Singapore Airport Duty-Free Emporium), which…
Gone in 60 seconds: myCWT rolls out “simple, fast and easy” flight bookings
Travel management firm Carlson Wagonlit Travel (CWT) has increased the scope of its myCWT app by introducing the mobile air booking tech, with an average booking time of one minute to key…
The sexiest company in travel: TD asks 5 questions for rapid industry insight
In the world of travel, the phrase ‘NDC’ is on everyone’s lips at the moment. It represents a paradigm shift in the way airline tickets are retailed globally – and yet, surprisingly few…
Scoot to take over SilkAir’s routes ahead its merger into Singapore Airlines
SilkAir will transfer a number of its routes to Scoot ahead of its merger into Singapore Airlines, while Scoot will be transferring some of its services to existing destinations served by…
+en Travel Envoys seeks travel agents
+en Travel Envoys is a new initiative backed by the Singapore Tourism Board that provides individuals with the digital platforms, training, expertise, network and resources to start a travel…
Bula Vinaka: Fiji Airways’ warm welcome to Singaporeans and Indians
In a recent discussion, I chatted with the well-travelled marketing officer at Fiji Airways, Marc Cavaliere, who in his spirited style unveiled some of their upcoming plans to make Fiji…
Hotel in a garden: PARKROYAL on Pickering “an architectural stunner”
PARKROYAL on Pickering, an eco-chic hotel, recently bagged the title of "Asia’s Leading Green Hotel" at the World Travel Awards (Asia & Australasia) for the fourth consecutive year. We…
SBC Travel acquires Dream Holidays Planner ahead its launch
Continuing to strengthen its position in the travel industry, Singapore-based travel agency and subsidiary of Swissbloc Capital, SBC Travel, has announced that it will purchase…
Aqua Expeditions gets USD 28M to expand fleet
Boutique river cruise company Aqua Expeditions has received USD 28 million investment from Bison Capital to fuel its expansion plans.
Travel giants Agoda and JTB Corp join forces
Singapore based online travel agent (OTA) Agoda, has announced today a brand new deal with Japan’s biggest travel agent JTB Corp.
For your tastebuds: Finnair announces summer routes in Europe
Further strengthening its summer holiday offering for leisure customers, Finnair will open three new routes to Bologna, Italy; Bordeaux, France and Porto, Portugal for the peak summer season…
United doubles down on Singapore-San Francisco by doubling up daily offering
United’s second SG-SFO connection gives “passengers what the asked for: better sleep in the sky,” says country manager Laurence Chin.
Direct Booking Summit: Asia-Pacific: Triptease selects architectural icon as event hosts
The Fullerton Hotel Singapore has been unveiled as the host location of the inaugural Direct Booking Summit: Asia-Pacific, by event organisers Triptease, this week.
Azamara Club Cruises pairs with Cox & Kings to make stays in cities memorable
Azamara Club Cruises has partnered with luxury tour operator Cox & Kings and launched the City Stays program that will allow guests to explore the iconic arrival or departure ports.
Avis Car Rental brings Avis Prestige service in Singapore
Avis Car Rental has launched Avis Prestige service in Singapore, through a partnership with Wearnes Leasing, a division of luxury car retailer Wearnes Automotive.
Home porting: Costa Cruises returns to Singapore after a decade
Costa Cruises announced that it has entered its second tripartite partnership with the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) and Changi Airport Group (CAG).
Wellington: New Zealand’s capital enjoys tourism growth
Tourism New Zealand has released new figures that show Wellington as an emerging tourist destination.
Flow of Indian millennials to Singapore is ‘unstoppable’
Indian millennials are being specifically targeted by the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) when the organisation unleashed a new video this weekend, featuring both Indian and Singaporean…
Singapore Airlines and Tourism Australia sign AUD 11 million marketing deal
Singapore Airlines and Tourism Australia have re-affirmed their commercial ties with a three-year strategic marketing deal.
Singapore Airlines receives world’s first Airbus A350-900ULR
Singapore Airlines (SIA) has taken delivery of the world’s first Airbus A350-900ULR ultra-long-range aircraft.
The Capitol Kempinski Hotel Singapore — ready to open in October
After going through meticulous restoration, The Capitol Kempinski Hotel Singapore has announced its re-opening on 1 October 2018.
“The inside access” to events – we talk to founder Arron Goh
At the very heart of The Inside Access is its mission to create a stress-free environment, allowing their clients to focus solely on being the perfect, generous host. Let's hear what Arron…
Soirees, Sojourns & Stories: Raffles’ new book details 130-year journey
Raffles has unveiled a storybook in partnership with Rizzoli New York, to uncover the glamour, romance and history behind the brand.
Crazy Rich Asians inspires 10% increase in bookings
After the box office hit Crazy Rich Asians hit the theatres worldwide — the booking platform, Klook, has reported a spike in luxury travel interests and bookings.
Beep! Beep! Avis Budget Group launches one-stop-portal
Avis Budget Group has launched its training platform, Beep – a one-stop-portal for travel trade professionals in Asia.
Alipay’s cash-free spending spree in SG
Mobile payment platform Alipay has announced it’s special “cashless” trip to Singapore, where Chinese tourists to Singapore travelled to the Little Red Dot and endeavoured to cover all their…
Big Bus Tours enters SEA with Duck and HiPPO acquisition
Open-top tour bus operator, Big Bus Tours, has announced the acquisition of Singapore’s Duck & HiPPO, a home attraction and sightseeing company.
SIA unites with Chinese tech powerhouse Alibaba
Chinese giant Alibaba has revealed it is entering the aviation game with an ambitious new relationship with Skytrax's "world's best airline", Singapore Airlines (SIA).
Is data personalisation simply to improve the human touch?
Personalisation is the winning ingredient in travel and we have been seeing signs of it creep into more mainstream experiences. Whoever owns the traveller’s journey from end-to-end will win.
How much do Singaporeans actually spend on travel?
Singaporeans love to travel, with a majority of people taking more two or more vacations per year. A study by Value Penguin breaks down the average cost of a vacation for Singaporeans, as…
Is the sharing economy safe for corporate travel?
The sharing economy enables individuals to lend and avail goods and services to one another for a fee.
Scoot air launches first transactional chatbot
Scoot launched a transactional chatbot, named M.A.R.V.I.E. (Most Awesome and Resourceful Virtual Intern Ever) via Facebook Messenger.
Will we ever see a single platform for booking travel?
A number of companies claim that they provide the best single platform for travel, but it seems that there is still a void in the market that needs to be filled.
The plight of the corporate traveller – in 2023
In 2023, Millennials and Gen Z comprise more than 60% of the workforce and they will dictate corporate travel trends in the next five years.
Rediscover Singapore: Three distinct hotels unite to create corporate package
JW Marriott Singapore South Beach, The St Regis Singapore and W Hotels Sentosa Cove, have tied up to offer a new corporate package, Rediscover Singapore.
KKday – a tour company of millennials for millennials
If there is Booking.com for hotels and Skyscanner for flights, there is KKday for tours and activities. KKday avoids “one-size-fits-all” tours and targets younger travellers.
Singapore sees a 17% year-on-year increase in tourists from India
A popular overseas destinations, Singapore is a hot favourite with Indians. No wonder that it received over half a million visitors from India just between January to May 2018, reporting a…
Artificial intelligence in hospitality – friend or foe?
Hotels and travel management companies are increasingly using AI to carry out customer service tasks, which are important in managing bookings and service.
TripAdvisor reinvestment pushes Eatigo total to $25 million
Following its launch in the Thai capital Bangkok in 2014, restaurant reservations and discount app Eatigo has announced that it has received further funding from original investor…
Far East Hospitality to add high-end brand The Clan Hotel
Singapore-based Far East Hospitality has announced that is expanding its portfolio with the addition of a new brand, The Clan Hotel.
SIA launches Dreamliner and new regional cabin products in India
Following the delivery of the world’s very first Boeing Dreamliner to Singapore Airlines in April of this year, the airline has now announced it will be rolling out its 787-10 services to…
The Ritz-Carlton Singapore’s grand ballroom gets a tech-forward facelift
New technological innovations at The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore’s Grand Ballroom and meeting spaces set to transform corporate events, meetings and social celebrations.
Upgrading.cc platform to boost hospitality upselling routines
Upgrading.cc gives travellers the ability to secure their desired hotel upgrades prior to arrival, and on their own terms allowing hotel and service apartment partners an opportunity to…
Wandermust: Scoot wants to prove that travel is in our blood
Singaporean airline, Scoot, has partnered with a genetics expert to prove how travel is in our blood and explain how we can reach the full potential of our nature.
Low cost carrier Scoot launches non-stop flights to Berlin
Scoot launched its third long-haul destination with non-stop four-times-weekly flights to Berlin from Singapore.
We talk to Ocean Group about Super Falcon “underwater private jet”
There are few greater pleasures in life than “simply messing about in boats” as Ratty said to Mole in Kenneth Grahame's children’s classic, The Wind in the Willows. Ocean Group, Singapore…
YOTEL Singapore GM gets the measure of bleisure
As a veteran of the industry - with over 25 year’s experience working for Starwood, Accor and Onyx across Asia and Australia - Brendan Daly is a hospitality man through and through. …
Singapore travel companies to reap rewards from Trump-Kim summit
United States President Donald Trump, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, former NBA superstar Dennis Rodman, and the rest of their entourage are not the only tourists that flew to Singapore…
Host hotel of Trump-Kim summit, Capella Hotel Group, to go from strength to strength
Capella Hotel is now in our history books being the host venue for the historic Trump-Kim Summit, but Capella Hotel Group is making waves on its own with its rapid growth.
Is now the right time for SIA’s relaunch of the world’s longest flight?
Singapore Airlines (SIA) has announced the return of its non-stop intercontinental service between Singapore and New York using its new ultra-long range plane, the Airbus A350-900ULR from 11…
Record breaking exhibitor numbers set to be smashed at ITB Asia 2018
With the huge success of last year’s tenth anniversary event, which witnessed over 940 exhibitors from 113 countries setting up shop at the Sands convention centre, ITB Asia 2017 looked like…
Air France and Qantas rekindles partnership, sharing more than 200 weekly flights
After dropping codeshare flights five years ago when the airline forged a global alliance with Emirates, Qantas has reinstated its codeshare agreement with Air France, giving passengers more…
Go-Jek makes international debut with $500 million in its pockets
In the coming months, daily commuters in Southeast Asia will soon get the chance to join the Indonesian way of travel as Go-Jek expands into Vietnam, Thailand, Singapore, and the…
Hotels with benefits: How Traveliko will “fix the industry”
Singapore-based online travel portal, Traveliko, has ambitions of ‘fixing the industry’ with the announcement of a zero-commission policy to support hotels and reconnect them with guests.
Kempinski Hotels to open flagship property in historic Capitol Singapore
Perennial Real Estate Holdings has appointed luxury hotel group, Kempinski Hotels SA, to operate its flagship property in the country - The Capitol Kempinski Hotel Singapore.
SilkAir merges with SIA as part of a three-year transformation strategy
Last year, Tiger Air was merged into the Scoot brand when owner Singapore Airlines (SIA) took a 56% ownership of the company. Now SIA has announced that its other subsidiary, regional…
Millennium Hotels now provide WeChat Pay within all six Singaporean properties
Following the news back in February which saw Centara sign a deal with WeChat to provide a flexible payment option for Chinese tourists, through WeChat Pay, the enormously popular messaging…
Crowdvilla ushers ‘real’ sharing economy in hospitality industry, says co-founder
Darvin Kurniawan believes that the blockchain can democratise the hospitality industry. In the last part of our interview with the Indonesian-born, Singapore-based start-up co-founder, he…
Cathay charges up distribution capabilities with Skyscanner deal
Skyscanner has linked up with Cathay Pacific and its subsidiary, Cathay Dragon, to make them the first Hong Kong airlines to be able to sell tickets directly within the site.
Discover the real Singapore on the Baba Trail
The Baba trail is a walk down heritage lane with a visit to the Peranakan hotspots – NUS Baba House, The Peranakan Museum, Rumah Bebe, Kim Choo Kueh Chang; as it tries to glorify the true…
Six Senses Duxton brings luxury hospitality to Singapore
Six Senses Duxton - the first city hotel from Six Senses - is now open in historic Tanjong Pagar in the Chinatown area of Singapore.
The rebirth of the timeshare – for the cryptocurrency generation: we talk to the CEO of Crowdvilla
Darvin Kurniawan, the Indonesian co-founder and CEO of Singapore-based start-up Crowdvilla, entered the alternative accommodations industry by way of blockchain-powered cryptocurrency. …
Beyond the slopes: Why Swiss partnership is a “win-win” for WebBeds
After announcing details of a new partnership with Switzerland Tourism designed to seduce Asian tourists to the country, WebBeds has revealed it hosted its first two travel trade workshops…
Ascott accelerates portfolio pipeline with new partners in Asia
CapitaLand’s serviced residence business unit, The Ascott Limited (Ascott), is accelerating its expansion in Asia by partnering with developers in China, Japan and Thailand.
World’s first Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner arrives in Singapore
Singapore Airlines welcomed the world’s first 787-10 aircraft last week, when it arrived in Singapore from Boeing’s production facility in South Carolina, USA.
CWT Meetings & Events new senior director to harness APAC MICE potential
Carlson Wagonlit Travel’s dedicated MICE division CWT Meetings & Events has signed up Sam Lay, as its new senior director for Asia Pacific.
MICE World: Singapore’s best meetings and event venues
Like Bangkok, Singpapore is one APAC's best locations for hosting meetings and events, boasting umpteen hotels and dedicated conference centres, all vying for your attention and business. So…
SIA “step-up frequency” of Singapore-Canberra-Wellington services
Singapore Airlines were the first airline to run a regular service from Singapore to Canberra and Wellington, when it established the route in September 2016, but the success of ‘Capital…
Amadeus wins contract for Flight Centre’s distribution business in EMEA and Asia
Two industry heavyweights come together today as Amadeus and Flight Centre announce their strategic partnership to drive progress for compliance with IATAs' NDC (New Distribution Capability)…
Pair of aces: Klook double down on USD$60 million investment
With news of Klook’s successful round of series C funding, coming at the end of last year, where the in-destination platform secured US$60 million (the largest deal of its kind) to expand…
How Alipay brings benefit of Chinese tourist boom to SE Asia’s “smallest” merchants
Continuing their relentless expansion, and commitment to installing their services for the convenience of Chinese travellers and local merchants all around the world, Alipay have announced…
WATCH: Award-winning director creates stunning short film for Raffles Singapore
Kirsten Tan’s short film is a bit too late for the Oscars but its timeless story will forever be in the heart of Raffles Singapore.
Aviation Festival Asia 2018: introducing HappyOrNot APAC director Chris Armstrong
Aviation Festival Asia is coming into land this Tuesday and as part of my previews of the we speak to HappyOrNot APAC director Chris Armstrong, to find out more about how he got to play…
Aviation Festival Asia 2018: introducing Guest of Honour — Lim Ching Kiat
Following my piece introducing SimpliFlying Innovations Lab and the Aviation Festival hogging the schedules of aviation professionals in Singapore next week -- where I spoke to my boss,…
Herman Wegmueller reveals scale of MG Group expansion plans
Already Southeast Asia’s biggest bedbank, MG Group is not resting on its laurels and is intent on getting bigger and bigger. With it’s home territory wrapped up, MG has lofty ambitions and…
Reclaim adventure by going Anywhr
Anywhr, an opaque bespoke tour booking start-up under the National University of Singapore’s NUS Enterprise programme, operates on the belief that “travel is more than just recycling…
Conrad Centennial Singapore revamps design to stay relevant and competitive
Conrad Centennial Singapore by Hilton unveils the much-awaited completion of its rejuvenation project and new ballroom - The Pavilion.
Singapore Tourism Board takes swipe at Time Out survey
Our friends at Marketing Interactive recently shared that the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) threw shade at Time Out, whose recent "most exciting cities" survey ranked Singapore 31 out of 32.…
ICAO and Singapore formalize MOU to support new aviation professionals
ICAO Council President Dr. Olumuyiwa Benard Aliu formalized a new Memorandum of Understanding between ICAO and Singapore yesterday, for a new five-year, six million dollar programme which…
ASEAN Tourism Forum 2018: Food trips, sustainability and scaling up in the next 50 years
The recent 37th ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) saw the region’s tourism ministers express optimism on growing the sector in 2018 onwards.
Hilton achieves landmark performance in APAC region
In 2017, Hilton achieved breakthrough growth and expansion in the Asia Pacific region with 40 new hotels opened. It now has a total of 220 hotels in operation with 415 still in the pipeline.
One Faber Group “One escapade, countless experiences”
One Faber Group is a new lifestyle brand that operates Singapore’s only cable car network, the largest Merlion and the award‑winning multi-sensory night show set in the open sea. With the…
Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas to open first city hotels
Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas has given two old beauties a complete restoration as part of a remarkable conservation project in Singapore.
Q&A with Arthur Kiong – CEO of Far East Hospitality
As one of the biggest players in the uber-competitive Singaporean travel market, it stands to reason they would have a CEO with a profile to match. Travel Daily sits down with Arthur Kiong…
Do as the locals in Asia do with the Be app
Ryan shared that the Be app’s secret lies in keeping the balance between what visitors want and what locals recommend. ‘It’s important that the Be app stays authentic in terms of locations…
Opening Asia to branded budget stays, one RedDoorz at a time
RedDoorz aims to be the Uber of budget accommodation: its ecosystem allows owners of unbranded spaces to showcase their properties & reach out to travellers who want to avail of quality…
Nine of the best: agoda reveal their top new hotels from 2017
Over the past year agoda’s accommodation listings have doubled, and now the fastest-growing online travel booking platform offers over 2 million properties worldwide. With so many new…
Triptease: Direct Booking Summit set for Asian debut
The Direct Booking Summit — the only event to focus solely on increasing hotels’ direct bookings — is coming to Asia for the first time. Triptease, summit host and pioneer of the Direct…
Packdat start-up! Disrupting the travel market with Felix Lee
Felix Lee Zheng De looks like any other Singaporean engineering student: lanky, bespectacled, wearing jeans and trainers, raring to go anywhere. What sets this twenty-something apart is that…
Dare to experience: The Vagabond Club Singapore
The Vagabond Club is a luxury boutique hotel that lives up to its striking reputation. It emanates an edgy vibe, a stunning look, and an eclectic atmosphere. It’s a Singaporean getaway that…
Plan your group adventure with Packdat
_linkedin_data_partner_id = "167515";
(function(){var s = document.getElementsByTagName("script");
var b = document.createElement("script");
b.type = "text/javascript";b.async = true;…
Louis T Collection presents its new senior vice president
Hospitality executive Mikael Svensson has joined hospitality management and building solutions company Louis T Collection as senior vice president. Svensson will oversee operations of the…
Equip Global presents the Leading Operational Excellence in Airports Summit 2018
In today’s fast paced travel environment, airport operations being increasingly complex require operational excellence across a broad and diverse set of capabilities and the management of…
Madame Tussauds Singapore: Avengers Assemble!
Madame Tussauds Singapore has launched its new immersive zone, the Marvel 4D Experience! Now a permanent home to Marvel's most loved Super Heroes, Madame Tussauds Singapore is thrilled to…
Cox & Kings wins ‘India’s favourite Tour Operator’ at Condé Nast Traveller RTA
Cox & Kings Ltd., the popular Indian tour operator, was crowned winner at the seventh edition of Condé Nast Traveller Reader’s Travel Awards (RTA). It bagged the prestigious title of…
Dazzling sun or cosy fires? Six contrasting tips for the festive season
Whether it’s escaping the winter chill, or embracing it wholeheartedly, Worldhotels has the ideal locale to suggest for guests at the end of 2017.
ICAO’s Dr. Fang Liu: “greater transparency is needed for social and economic benefits”
ICAO Secretary General Dr. Fang Liu told ICAO member states yesterday that in order for them to safely and efficiently manage forecast growth, and optimize the social and economic benefits…
JW Marriott gets creative with new MD appointment
JW Marriott Singapore South Beach has announced the appointment of Mr Stephane Fabregoul as its new Managing Director, with immediate effect.
Hotel Jen’s new service staff are tireless, obedient and just a little bit different
Hotel Jen today marks a new milestone as the first international hotel brand to use autonomous relay robots in Asia.
SITA has the tech for APACS’ 2 billion extra customers
With the latest 20-year air passenger forecast predicting more than half the world’s growth will be in Asia Pacific, 2.1 billion additional passengers by 2036, more than double the current…
CWT: what really worries Asia Pacific business travellers?
Recently conducted research by Carlson Wagonlit Travel found that while more than one-third (37 percent) of European travellers are concerned about safety and security, their counterparts…
The perfect match? Singapore host ILTM Asia Pacific 2018
ILTM Asia Pacific which takes place for the first time at the Marina Bay Sands Hotel in Singapore, 21 – 24 May 2018, is attracting the attention of the world’s leading luxury travel brands…
ITB Asia 2017: bigger, better and bolder
Asia's leading travel trade show, ITB Asia 2017, organised by Messe Berlin (Singapore) Pte Ltd, has completed its milestone anniversary event with record-breaking numbers. The tenth edition…
Royal Plaza’s scream queens present ‘Your Worst Nightmare’
This Halloween, Royal Plaza on Scotts raised the spook factor with seasonal dress-up competition between CEOs of different departments. As part of the festivities, front office and Carousel…
TravelBird: study reveals most hospitable city on the planet
Online travel specialists TravelBird have released a study ranking international cities according to how welcome they are in relation to their levels of over-tourism.
Raffles Singapore’s new riff on a classic
Raffles Singapore has announced its up-coming reopening is on track for the second half of 2018. Since February 2017, the iconic heritage hotel has embarked on a careful and phased…
Why is age the secret to Airbnb success?
Airbnb celebrates the UN’s International Day of Older Persons. This year, the theme for was “Stepping into the Future”, something Airbnb claims it is seeing senior people do all over APAC.
Tourico expects “consistent, diversified demand” throughout Asia, says Hillary Wang
Tourico Holidays have shared data reporting a 93 percent overall increase in Asia-Pacific hotel bookings in 2017 compared to the same time in 2016.
Feel Like Home: Enter the (five) Dragons
Feel Like Home (FLH), is the world’s first website aiming exclusively Chinese travellers, helping hospitality professionals (hotels, restaurants etc) throughout the world, to make the…
MICE and Corporate buyers flock to ITB Asia 2017
Celebrating its 10th anniversary as Asia’s Leading Travel Trade Show, ITB Asia 2017 has opened its doors today at the Sands Expo and Convention Centre, Marina Bay Sands.
New THOR Media Portal Strategic Partnership Provides Unique Digital Benefits to Membership
(CENTENNIAL, CO – October 24, 2017) – Rich Media Exchange announced today their joint partnership with THOR Inc., a world leading travel services company.
The multi-layered agreement…
Daring new partnership preps SG’s travel agents for the future
EASB (East Asia Institute of Management), a fully-owned subsidiary of the EASB Education Group and NATAS (National Association of Travel Agents Singapore) jointly announced a strategic…
Ctrip: Have Chinese tourists developed a taste for the high life?
Ctrip released its “2017 One Belt One Road Travel Report” (OBOR), at its own 2nd Annual Hotel Summit held in Shanghai this week. Where over 750 global hotel group executives, industry…
Royal Plaza on Scotts celebrates milestone with free ice cream
Royal Plaza on Scotts (RP) celebrated its milestone win as Asia Pacific’s Best Independent Hotel for the tenth year in a row , and gave out free homemade ice-cream from Carousel to guests…
Wings “strategically and uniquely positioned” to dominate in Asia
Wings Travel Management targets growth in Asia Pacific with Singapore Acquisition and Appointment of new VP.
Q & A with Javine Tan, business development manager, for Traveltek Group Ltd in SE Asia
UK travel technology specialist Traveltek has opened a Singapore office,
marking its foray in South-East Asia – a market where its advanced solutions can help the travel industry keep pace…
Swissôtel, The Stamford steps into the future
Swissôtel, The Stamford has completed the first phase of a comprehensive multi-million dollar renovation to help stay ahead of the competitive and ever-changing landscape of Singapore’s…
Chubb adds connection to its protection
Chubb have announced the launch of a suite of value-added services for leisure travellers. Known as Chubb Connect, these services include complimentary wifi and SOS Alerts as a start.…
eRevMax: ‘putting hoteliers at the centre’
Hospitality technology company, eRevMax will be attending ITB Asia, being held at Marina Bay Sands Singapore, to talk about technology and innovation in travel.
Robertson Quay’s fancy new resident
Located just a few minutes from the CBD, InterContinental Singapore Robertson Quay presents a stylish but relaxed feel in the neighbourhood of Robertson Quay. The hotel offers 225 luxurious…
Oceania Cruises: raising the bar, without dropping anchor
Oceania Cruises, has unveiled enhanced Concierge Level Stateroom amenities which include free laundry and in-stateroom dining service from The Grand Dining Room during lunch and dinner.
Singapore’s Airlines: From farm to plane
Singapore Airlines has today committed to significantly enhancing sustainability practices in its in-flight food and beverage offerings. Under the new initiative, a “From Farm to Plane”…
Andaz Singapore sign up Soren Lascelles
Set to open this month, the new Andaz Singapore has announced the appointment of Soren Lascelles as the hotel’s executive chef. In his role, Soren will oversee all culinary operations, from…
Thomas Cook in Singapore tourism partnership
The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) and Thomas Cook Group plc, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), at the end of last week, to cover cooperative marketing campaigns, trade…
STB and Thomas Cook partner to promote Singapore
MoU effective until 4 October 2020.
Asia dominates World’s 50 Best Bar awards
The World’s 50 Bars announced its highly anticipated list and awards at a live ceremony in London, at the end of last week. The rankings are created by the votes of an academy with over 500…
GameStart 2017: All things gaming
Event organiser Eliphant announced a series of updates today for GameStart 2017 Southeast Asia’s Premier Game Convention. Where industry professionals can look forward to a line-up of…
