Features

INNSiDE by Meliá Kuala Lumpur Cheras grand opening this month

Kristin Mariano Mar 24, 2023

The contemporary INNSiDE by Meliá Kuala Lumpur Cheras will debut in the country’s capital on March 25. The new 238-room property is designed for guests who opt for a sense of fluidity -…

Airlines and Aviation

Now fly AirAsia X direct from Kuala Lumpur to Busan

Kanchan Nath Feb 3, 2023

AirAsia X (AAX) announces further expansion into South Korea with exclusive direct services from Kuala Lumpur to Busan, connecting the largest coastal city in the country with Southeast Asia…

Airlines and Aviation

What happened to Malaysian Airlines passenger Jet MH17 flying from Amsterdam to Kuala Lumpur?

Kanchan Nath Nov 21, 2022

A Dutch court has found three men guilty of murder for shooting down a passenger jet over eastern Ukraine in 2014, killing 298 people. 

Airlines and Aviation

Fly AirAsia from Sydney to Kuala Lumpur or fly thru for AUD239

Kanchan Nath Sep 12, 2022

AirAsia X (AAX) celebrated the return of services from Sydney and welcomed flight D7220 to Kuala Lumpur with 61% load factor on Friday.

Air

KLM resumes flights from Kuala Lumpur and Jakarta from 31 October

Kanchan Nath Aug 30, 2022

For its winter 2022-2023 schedule, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines will offer flights from Kuala Lumpur and Jakarta as of 31 October 2022.

Air

Emirates to resume Auckland and Kuala Lumpur A380 routes

Kanchan Nath Aug 26, 2022

Emirates will restore its non-stop A380 services to and from Auckland and Kuala Lumpur starting from 1 December.

TD Syndicated Partner

Two daily Kuala Lumpur to Doha flights on Malaysia Airlines now

Harry Johnson Jul 21, 2022

Malaysia Airlines and Qatar Airways’ strategic partnership offers customers more choices via their leading hubs in KUL and DOH Two daily Kuala Lumpur to Doha flights on Malaysia Airlines…

The First Gordon Ramsay Bar & Grill outside the UK opens at Sunway Resort in Kuala Lumpur

Kristin Mariano Jun 28, 2022

The most anticipated dining experience in Asia, Gordon Ramsay Bar & Grill in Sunway City Kuala Lumpur is opening its doors at Sunway Resort this month – becoming the iconic chef’s…

Hilton Kuala Lumpur launches “Collaboration Spaces, Reimagined”

Kristin Mariano Jun 15, 2022

Hilton Kuala Lumpur has announced the completion of the much-awaited refurbished Collaboration Spaces, which comprises a MYR21 million (USD4.8 million) redesign and state-of-the-art…

Airlines and Aviation

Malaysia Airlines launches new direct flight from Kuala Lumpur to Doha

Kristin Mariano May 20, 2022

Malaysia Airlines has announced that it is launching direct flights from Kuala Lumpur to Doha commencing 25 May.

Airlines and Aviation

Scoot launches VTL flights to/from Kuala Lumpur, additional flights to other Malaysian destinations in the pipeline

Kristin Mariano Nov 23, 2021

Scoot is delighted to increase passenger services between Singapore and Kuala Lumpur (KL) with the addition of four-times weekly designated Vaccinated Travel Lane (VTL) flights.

Features

Singapore adds Malaysia (Kuala Lumpur), Sweden and Finland in VTL scheme

Kristin Mariano Nov 16, 2021

With the launch of the VTLs (Vaccinated Travel Lanes), there has been an upward momentum in travellers wishing to visit Singapore, may it be for business or leisure. It is anticipated…

AirAsia starts exclusive route from Kuala Lumpur to Da Lat, Vietnam

Megha Paul Dec 23, 2019

AirAsia has unveiled its maiden flight to Da Lat, capital of Lam Dong province in the central highlands of Vietnam. The inaugural flight made history as the first international airline…

AirAsia unveils exclusive Kuala Lumpur-Da Lat route

Megha Paul Sep 19, 2019

AirAsia has announced the launch of an exclusive route to Da Lat from Kuala Lumpur, further expanding its footprint in Vietnam. The four times weekly service to Da Lat, capital of Lam…

Air

AirAsia connects Kuala Lumpur to hidden island paradise of Belitung

Megha Paul Aug 22, 2019

AirAsia launched a new route connecting Kuala Lumpur to Belitung, an island paradise off the east coast of Sumatra, Indonesia. As the first airline that connects Kuala Lumpur and…

Air

Air Arabia start flights to Kuala Lumpur

Megha Paul Jul 16, 2019

Middle East and North Africa’s low-cost carrier (LCC), Air Arabia inaugurated its direct flight between Kuala Lumpur and Sharjah. The seven-hour flight between the two cities is the…

Hospitality

Ormond Hotels to debut first boutique property, The Chow Kit, in Kuala Lumpur

Megha Paul Jun 26, 2019

Opening in the heart of old Kuala Lumpur, The Chow Kit - an Ormond Hotel, will boast 113 rooms and suites in the eponymous Chow Kit neighbourhood. Known for its bustling market and local…

Airlines and Aviation

AirAsia sets to fly Kuala Lumpur-Quanzhou route

Christian Tolentino Apr 4, 2019

AirAsia has announced it is set to fly to Quanzhou in Fujian, China with a daily direct service from Kuala Lumpur commencing 1 May 2019.

Hotels

STR: Kuala Lumpur’s hotel industry “off to a rough start”

Christian Tolentino Mar 25, 2019

STR has reported that Kuala Lumpur’s early 2019 performance levels and profitability fundamentals produced an unfavourable short- to mid-term outlook.

Partner content

Upgrade your business trip with Hilton Kuala Lumpur

Alastair Newport Nov 28, 2018

Hilton Kuala Lumpur is renowned as the preferred choice for many seasoned business travellers because of their thoughtful solutions and rejuvenation options, which are readily available when…

Hospitality

The RuMa: Luxury living in the heart of Kuala Lumpur

Christian Tolentino Sep 12, 2018

Urban Resort Concepts (URC) has announced the opening of its latest luxury resort and first development outside of China—The RuMa Hotel and Residences.

Hotels

“We want to create out-of-the-box, unique experiences” – W Kuala Lumpur GM

Kristin Mariano Aug 24, 2018

W Hotels Worldwide opened its first property in the capital city of Malaysia yesterday. W Kuala Lumpur highly-anticipated debut focuses lifestyle and localisation making guests’ stay a…

Hotels

ibis Kuala Lumpur set to become largest in Asia Pacific

Mili Aug 9, 2018

ibis, AccorHotels' midscale brand is set to make its debut in Kuala Lumpur with the opening of ibis Hotel Kuala Lumpur City Centre (KLCC) this August.

Hotels

Double vision: Onyx announces Amari Kuala Lumpur and Penang

Alastair Newport Aug 1, 2018

Following the opening of Amari Johor Bahru, Onyx Hospitality Group is expanding its Malay footprint with signed agreements with local developers, SP Setia Berhad, to oversee development of…

Hotels

Sofitel Kuala Lumpur Damansara opens KL’s first luxury hammam

Alastair Newport Jul 13, 2018

Sofitel Hotels & Resorts’ has announced the official opening of its popular So Spa concept at the Sofitel Kuala Lumpur Damansara this week.

Hospitality

Four Seasons Hotel Kuala Lumpur: Latest addition to the city’s skyline

Christian Tolentino Jul 11, 2018

A glittering new skyscraper next to the Petronas Towers in the Golden Triangle district, Four Seasons Hotel Kuala Lumpur has opened its first property in the Malaysian city.

Hospitality

Mövenpick appoints GM for mega new MICE hotel in Kuala Lumpur

Alastair Newport May 17, 2018

I first mentioned the Mövenpick Hotel & Convention Centre KLIA in a round-up of the group’s properties set to open this year. And now with the July opening of the 333 room property just…

Hospitality

Alila Hotels & Resorts expands into Kuala Lumpur with Alila Bangsar

Christian Tolentino May 17, 2018

Opening today, 17 May, Alila Bangsar is set at the topmost floors of a mixed-use development known as The Establishment, right in the heart of Kuala Lumpur’s cosmopolitan district.

Malaysia

MICE life: The four top contenders of Kuala Lumpur’s thriving event scene

Alastair Newport Apr 3, 2018

With an economy powered by the service industry, tourism is essential component of Kuala Lumpur's growing success. And, as the Malaysian capital’s reputation as a holiday destination grows,…

Hotels

Travelodge doubles up with two new hotels in Kuala Lumpur

Alastair Newport Mar 19, 2018

It’s been a very busy 2018 so far for Travelodge, who kicked off the new year with the opening of Skye by Travelodge Arena Nha Trang, in Vietnam. And, today the company have announced…

Airlines and Aviation

Malaysia Airlines launches A350 flight from London to Kuala Lumpur

Jill Sayles Jan 16, 2018

Malaysia Airlines launched its inaugural Airbus A350 from London Heathrow at 9.30pm yesterday evening, arriving in Kuala Lumpur International Airport at 6.30pm (all times local).

Airlines and Aviation

AirAsia suspends Kuala Lumpur-Goa flights

Mark Elliott May 11, 2016

AirAsia will suspend its thrice weekly flights from Kuala Lumpur to Goa on 7 June 2016, as part of its route rationalisation plan. Spencer Lee, AirAsia’s head of commercial, said, “We…

Hotels

Saujana Kuala Lumpur aims high following renovation

Mark Elliott Apr 28, 2015

The Saujana Hotel Kuala Lumpur is planning to establish itself as a key destination for the leisure and MICE markets, following the completion of a major renovation. The revamp, which…

Hotels

Ramada launches in Kuala Lumpur

Mark Elliott Jan 14, 2015

Wyndham Hotel Group has expanded its Ramada brand in Malaysia with the opening of a new property in Kuala Lumpur. Formerly a Best Western Premier hotel, the 33-storey Ramada Plaza Dua…

Features

Prince Hotel & Residence Kuala Lumpur

Mark Elliott Mar 20, 2013

Travel Daily Middle East talks to Tim Quarm, general manager of Prince Hotel & Residence Kuala Lumpur How has the year panned out for Prince Hotel & Residence? This…

Airlines and Aviation

Etihad Airways, Virgin Australia join forces on Kuala Lumpur route

Mark Elliott May 27, 2012 15

Etihad Airways has leased a Virgin Australia Boeing 777-300ER for use on its route between Abu Dhabi and Kuala Lumpur. The once a week wet lease service reflects the importance of the…

Airlines and Aviation

MAS upgrades Delhi – Kuala Lumpur service

Mark Elliott Sep 26, 2011

Malaysia Airlines (MAS) will introduce a Boeing 777-200 aircraft to its Delhi - Kuala Lumpur evening flight. The 280-seat aircraft - comprising 35 seats in Golden Club Class (Business…

Hotels

Grand Hyatt confirmed for Kuala Lumpur

Mark Elliott Jun 16, 2011

Hyatt Hotels Corporation announced today that a Hyatt affiliate has entered into an agreement with Bahagia Investment Corporation (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd to manage Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur. The…

Tourism Boards

Kuala Lumpur tops STA’s cheapest destinations

Mark Elliott Mar 17, 2010

Kuala Lumpur has come first in a survey to find the cheapest holiday destination, in a survey from STA Travel.The tour operator questioned travellers and travel consultants to find the…

Global

AirAsia X launches Kuala Lumpur – Chengdu Flights

Mark Elliott Oct 23, 2009

AirAsia has launched flights between Kuala Lumpur and Chengdu. This new service is operated by AirAsia X, the low cost long-haul airline affiliate of AirAsia. Azran Osman Rani…

Global

CSR Asia Summit Held in Kuala Lumpur

Mark Elliott Aug 26, 2009

Corporate Social Responsibility: What it means in practice KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, Aug. 24 /PRNewswire-Asia/ -- The seventh CSR Asia Summit will be held in…

Global

Work begins on Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur

Mark Elliott Jun 2, 2009

Work has begun on the US$112million, 40-storey Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur hotel and mixed-used development in Malaysia. One of the more notable features of the five-star hotel is that the…

OTAs & Tour Operators

LCCs fly Singapore-Kuala Lumpur route

Mark Elliott Feb 4, 2008

Budget airlines started flights between Singapore and Kuala Lumpur last Friday, ending 30 years of near monopoly of the route by Singapore Airlines and Malaysian Airlines. The…

Airlines and Aviation

Airline interested in Kuala Terengganu

Mark Elliott Nov 6, 2008

Several airlines have shown interest in operating direct flight to Kuala Terengganu, Bernama has reported the Malaysian state's 'Menteri Besar', Datuk Ahmad Said as saying.He said…

Airlines and Aviation

AirAsia X resumes services to Shanghai with four weekly flights

Kanchan Nath Mar 3, 2023

 AirAsia X (AAX) has resumed its services to Shanghai, China with four weekly flights from Kuala Lumpur which commenced on 2 March 2023

Airports

A Spotlight on Japan’s Gateways

Kanchan Nath Feb 24, 2023

Japan National Tourism Organization Kuala Lumpur Office (JNTO KL) shares useful updates about Japan's international airports, which are sure to delight Malaysians who are dreaming about…

Global

Malaysia Airlines announces New Year sale on economy and business class flights

Kanchan Nath Dec 28, 2022

Malaysia Airlines, the national carrier of Malaysia and a member of the oneworld Alliance, is excited to announce its annual New Year Sale on return flights from London Heathrow to …

Airlines and Aviation

AirAsia X resumes flights to Jeddah

Kanchan Nath Nov 17, 2022

AirAsia X (AAX) inaugural flight from Kuala Lumpur to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia departed from Kuala Lumpur International Airport (klia2) with over 80% load factor today, marking AAX’s service…

Travel Meet Asia to take stage in KL in 2023

Megha Paul Jul 5, 2022

To be hosted in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, the in-person show will target MICE, corporate and leisure buyers from Malaysia, Southeast Asia and International markets.

Air

Malaysia Airlines and Japan Airlines inks deal with expanded codeshare

Megha Paul Jun 27, 2022

Malaysia Airlines (MH) and Japan Airlines (JAL) are expanding their codeshare operations following Malaysia Airlines' recent announcement to launch new direct flights from Kuala Lumpur to…

Air

AirAsia X is back as it spreads wings to London, Istanbul and Dubai

Megha Paul Jun 16, 2022

Marking a new era for long haul low cost air travel, AirAsia X (AAX) announced that it will be flying from Kuala Lumpur to London, Dubai and Istanbul this year

PARKROYAL COLLECTION debuts in Malaysia

Kristin Mariano Jun 3, 2022

Pan Pacific Hotels Group expands its sustainability-focused brand PARKROYAL COLLECTION Hotels and Resorts with the official opening of PARKROYAL COLLECTION Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, marking…

Air

AirAsia first LCC to fly to Bangkok’s both airports

Megha Paul May 31, 2022

AirAsia Thailand will launch flights on 20 June from Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport to Kuala Lumpur (KUL), Malaysia

Air

Malaysia Airlines to relaunch double daily London route

Megha Paul Mar 11, 2022

Malaysia Airlines will be increasing its flight capacity by over 70,000 seats on its non-stop flight schedule from London Heathrow to Kuala Lumpur International Airport from March 27

Airlines and Aviation

AirAsia X Restarts Services To Sydney

Joe Cusmano Feb 3, 2022

AirAsia X, Malaysia’s low-cost long-haul airline, has announced the restart of flights between Sydney and Kuala Lumpur on February 14.

Food & Drink

Podcast: A world of Malaysian Laksas

Steve Collins Jan 25, 2021

One of the things that I truly love about Malaysia is its food.  Usually, a flight from Perth lands in Kuala Lumpur at about 9 pm, and if I get the Airport Express train into KL Sentral…

Tourism

Malaysia in full lockdown to curb third wave

Kristin Mariano Jan 12, 2021

Malaysia is reimposing a full lockdown in its capital of Kuala Lumpur and five other states in order to slow down the third wave of coronavirus infections.

Hotels

MICE Mecca raises its game even higher

Alastair Newport Jan 31, 2019

Hilton Kuala Lumpur is taking part in The Bringing Ideas to Life meeting package – under Meet with Purpose, the Hilton concept which helps clients enjoy socially and environmentally…

Global

Overlooking the twin towers: Live it up at the only 4-star ibis in Asia

Mili Jan 25, 2019

ibis, the midscale brand from AccorHotels, made its debut in Kuala Lumpur with the opening of ibis Hotel Kuala Lumpur City Centre (KLCC) last August. Well within the shadows of the iconic…

Hotels

4 know-hows of marketing a luxury hotel

Kristin Mariano Nov 26, 2018

It has been three months since Nikie Mok assumed the position as Director of Sales & Marketing of W Kuala Lumpur and the hotel invigorates urban energy same as the Malaysian capital…

Airlines and Aviation

Etihad: Boeing 787 “fast becoming our flagship long-haul aircraft”

Alastair Newport Oct 26, 2018

Etihad launches new route to Brussels and Kuala Lumpur just in for the holiday season.

Airlines and Aviation

AirAsia strengthens Chinese coverage with beefed up Malaysian connections

Alastair Newport Oct 12, 2018

AirAsia has announced it will be pushing further into China with the launch a new direct service connecting Kuala Lumpur, in Malaysia, to Tianjin from 29 October this year.

Airlines and Aviation

AirAsia plunges into thriving Malaysian dive destination

Alastair Newport Oct 10, 2018

Following the news in September that Air Asia were boosting the coverage of the Malaysia product with a new service between Kuala Lumpur and Kuantan, in Pahang, the airline has now announced…

Air

Coming soon: Air Asia’s new domestic route to Kuantan

Mili Aug 17, 2018

Beginning 28 October 2018, AirAsia will commence daily flights from Malaysia’s capital city Kuala Lumpur to Kuantan, the state capital of Pahang. 

Hospitality

Hilton regional GM for Malaysia: millennials will have careers “we would have envied 20 years ago”

Alastair Newport Jun 13, 2018

As Hilton’s first regional manager for Malaysia, Jamie Mead has carved out an enviable reputation in the relatively short time he has been in the country. Described by Hilton as a “visionary…

Hospitality

MICE is nice: The top 4 meetings and events locations in Jakarta

Alastair Newport Apr 11, 2018

Cited as the world’s number one most popular location per tag stories and the eight most posted cities by Instagram in 2017, Jakarta’s tourism industry has traditionally been powered by the…

Airlines and Aviation

Air Asia X increases flights to the Maldives

Alastair Newport Jan 8, 2018

AirAsia is increasing its Maldives operations with the commencement of additional services to be operated by its long-haul affiliate AirAsia X, in addition to the daily flights currently…

Hotels

Hilton Garden Inn debuts in Malaysia

Alastair Newport Dec 18, 2017 18

Hilton Garden Inn, has made its first entry into Malaysia with the opening of Hilton Garden Inn Kuala Lumpur Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman. The new hotel adds 265 rooms to the Hilton Garden Inn…

Hotels

Canopy soars into Malaysia for Southeast Asian debut

Alastair Newport Oct 30, 2017 18

Canopy by Hilton, and Hass Holdings Sdn Bhd announced the signing of Canopy by Hilton Kuala Lumpur, Bukit Bintang. The latest signing marks the debut of the Canopy by Hilton brand in…

Tourism

Destinations increasing in popularity, according to Pinterest

Kristin Mariano Mar 27, 2023

A new study has revealed the destinations increasing the most in popularity for 2023, with Pinterest search increases of over 280%.  The study by the travel experts at Bounce analysed…

Reports

10 most popular destinations for 2023

Kanchan Nath Mar 24, 2023

The study by the travel experts at Bounce analysed Pinterest Trends Index scores, to reveal the global destinations increasing (& decreasing) the most in popularity. 

Features

Top 30 safest cities for solo female travellers

Kanchan Nath Mar 23, 2023

Travel metasearch website WayAway has produced a ranking of the top 30 safest cities for female solo travellers in order to empower women to travel alone with confidence.

Air

Emirates ramps up operations across continents including Bangkok

Kristin Mariano Mar 21, 2023

Emirates has boosted operations by 31% (total ASKMs) since the start of its financial year and has further plans to ramp up seat capacity in its latest published northern summer schedule…

Airlines and Aviation

Emirates ramps up operations across continents

Kanchan Nath Mar 16, 2023

Emirates has boosted operations by 31% (total ASKMs) since the start of its financial year and has further plans to ramp up seat capacity in its latest published northern summer schedule…

Hotels

ONYX Hospitality Group on track to operate 54 properties by 2025

Kanchan Nath Mar 9, 2023

Thailand-based ONYX Hospitality Group will be at ITB Berlin 2023 this week to share its aggressive expansion plans and optimistic revenue target for 2023, conveying its full confidence in…

Global

Meliá Hotels’ INNSiDE brand expands in Asia with two new hotel openings

Kristin Mariano Mar 7, 2023

As digital nomads wander into the farthest-flung reaches of the world, Meliá Hotels International is expanding its INNSiDE brand throughout Asia with the opening of two new INNSiDE hotels…

Airlines and Aviation

Oman Air Increases Frequency and Adds 4 New Destinations

Joe Cusmano Mar 1, 2023

Oman Air, the national carrier of the Sultanate of Oman, has unveiled its summer schedule for 2023, continuing its ambitious and dynamic fleet and network growth strategy. The number…

Reports

AGODA: Goa tops domestic while Dubai comes in favorite for Indian family trips

Kanchan Nath Feb 27, 2023

Goa is the most popular search destination for Indian families looking to enjoy a domestic vacation, while Dubai tops the search list as the most sought-after international destination. 

Airlines and Aviation

Malaysia Airlines announces ‘Airfare Sale’

Kanchan Nath Feb 24, 2023

Malaysia Airlines, the national carrier of Malaysia and a member of the oneworld Alliance announces a flight sale, offering travellers a range of exciting deals for immediate travel until 30…

Airlines and Aviation

Oman Air adds four destinations and increased frequency to its 2023 Summer Schedule

Kanchan Nath Feb 24, 2023

Continuing its ambitious and dynamic strategy of fleet and network expansion, Oman Air, the national airline of the Sultanate of Oman, has unveiled its summer schedule for 2023

TD Syndicated Partner

Chinese tourists forced to seek new travel destinations

Harry Johnson Feb 21, 2023 0

by: Harry Johnson | copyright: eTurboNews - Travel Industry News - World Travel News Flight restrictions, visa problems and lingering pandemic-related entry rules affecting Chinese passport…

Airlines and Aviation

14% increase in Rose Shipments at BLR Airport

Kanchan Nath Feb 16, 2023

Enhancing its reputation as the most preferred airport of choice for perishables, BLR Airport cargo witnessed a near two-fold increase in rose shipments in the run-up to Valentine's Day this…

Reports

Agoda uses ChatGPT to regale Valentine’s Day hotspots

Kanchan Nath Feb 10, 2023

Tokyo, Bangkok, and Singapore are this year’s most popular Valentine’s Day getaways in Asia, global digital travel platform Agoda revealed

Cruise

Oceania Cruises reveals exotic explorations in Asia with newly re-inspired Riviera

Kristin Mariano Jan 26, 2023

Oceania Cruises, the world’s leading culinary- and destination-focused cruise line, announces that the newly re-inspired Riviera will sail in Asia for the first time due to unprecedented…

Airlines and Aviation

Ohayosan Osaka! AirAsia X returns to Japan’s gourmet capital

Kristin Mariano Jan 24, 2023

AirAsia X (AAX) returned to Osaka, Japan further expanding its network to/from the land of the rising sun.  The inaugural flight departed from Kuala Lumpur at 11.45pm last night and…

Partner content

Swiss-Belhotel International plans ambitious growth in Malaysia through joint venture with Nautical Insight Sdn Bhd

Kristin Mariano Jan 17, 2023

Aiming to reach 10 hotels, 2000 rooms, and creating 1,500 jobs by 2025 in Malaysia, Swiss-Belhotel International embarks in a strategic joint venture with Nautical Insight Sdn Bhd.

Airlines and Aviation

AirAsia offers special extra flights at fixed low fares

Kanchan Nath Dec 29, 2022

AirAsia reaffirms its commitment to reuniting loved ones for the upcoming Chinese New Year celebration with special extra flights at fixed low fares between Peninsula and East Malaysia from…

Airlines and Aviation

AirAsia launches a new low-cost airline in Cambodia

Kanchan Nath Dec 27, 2022

AirAsia Aviation Group Limited (AAAGL), the aviation arm of Capital A Berhad, today signed a Joint Venture (JV) agreement with Sivilai Asia to establish AirAsia Cambodia, a new low-cost…

Airlines and Aviation

Emirates Skywards and Aeroplan kick-off joint loyalty programme partnership

Kanchan Nath Dec 13, 2022

Emirates and Air Canada have expanded their partnership to offer frequent flyer members joint loyalty programme benefits.

Hotels

10 breathtaking IHG hotels opening in 2023

Kristin Mariano Dec 13, 2022

From a spectacular island retreat in Danang to a historic haven on Kowloon’s waterfront, IHG Hotels & Resorts has curated a list of all new Asia properties opening in 2023 for the…

Hotel Management Company

Hospitality 360 expands hotel management portfolio

Kanchan Nath Dec 8, 2022

Hospitality 360 Sdn Bhd (“H360”), a Malaysian hotel management and consulting company announced the signing of a strategic partnership with Wyndham Hotels and Resorts (“Wyndham”) to expand…

Appointments

Club Med Appoints Olivier Monceau as its new general manager of Singapore and Malaysia

Kristin Mariano Dec 6, 2022

Club Med has announced the appointment of Olivier Monceau as the new General Manager of Singapore and Malaysia effective from October 2022.   With his strong business acumen and deep…

Finance

Travelex completes successful turnaround with positive Q3 results

Kanchan Nath Dec 5, 2022

Travelex, a market foreign exchange brand, announces results for the third quarter of 2022, with a positive EBITDA and strong revenue growth underlining the company’s successful turnaround…

Airlines and Aviation

Singapore Airlines Adds A380 Flights To Sydney And Melbourne

Joe Cusmano Nov 25, 2022

Singapore Airlines’ flagship Airbus A380 is returning to Melbourne, and the airline is increasing the number of flights to Sydney using the superjumbo. This change will provide a…

Airlines and Aviation

Singapore Airlines to increase services to Australia, resume flights to Busan 

Kanchan Nath Nov 23, 2022

Singapore Airlines (SIA) will boost frequencies to destinations across East Asia and South East Asia, resume flights to Busan, and increase Airbus A380 services to Australia during the…

Luxury Travel

The most luxurious holiday destinations in the world for kids

Kristin Mariano Nov 11, 2022

When kids think of luxury holidays, they would trade in sun loungers for water slides and pina coladas for ice cream, looking for something more adventurous. Kids' happiness on holiday is…

Airlines and Aviation

AirAsia X takes flight to Tokyo Haneda

Kanchan Nath Nov 8, 2022

AirAsia X (AAX) today resumed its flight to Tokyo (Haneda) following the full reopening of the country’s border for international tourism.

Airlines and Aviation

Malaysia Airlines launches a range of partnerships during WTM

Kanchan Nath Nov 8, 2022

Malaysia Airlines, the national carrier of Malaysia, has signed several strategic Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with key tourism partners such as Tourism Malaysia and state tourism…

Cruise

Silversea Cruises to return to Asia

Kanchan Nath Nov 3, 2022

Silversea Cruises, the leading ultra-luxury cruise line, has confirmed its highly anticipated return to Asia, with four ships—Silver Shadow, Silver Whisper, Silver Spirit, and Silver…

Airlines and Aviation

AirAsia X resumes operations to Melbourne

Kanchan Nath Nov 2, 2022

AirAsia X (AAX) celebrated its resumption of services to Melbourne, as one of its first key destinations to return to post-pandemic.

Airlines and Aviation

AirAsia X Group relaunch strategy gaining strong momentum

Kanchan Nath Oct 18, 2022

The AirAsia X Group (AAX) relaunch strategy continues to gain strong momentum as the airline remains focused on its medium haul markets in the short term, where proven demand is strongest.

Visa updates

eVisa system down in Malaysia

Kanchan Nath Oct 17, 2022

The eVisa system has not been suspended but is instead facing service disruption, says the Immigration Department of malaysia. The eVisa portal, which is the online facility to apply for a…

Airlines and Aviation

AirAsia Malaysia to launch new direct route to Penang from Bali on 20 Oct

Kanchan Nath Oct 13, 2022

Penang is set to welcome more regional tourists this year as AirAsia Malaysia (AK) will be launching a new direct route from Bali (Denpasar) starting on 20 October 2022. 

Vietnam

Waldorf Astoria set to debut in Vietnam with Waldorf Astoria Hanoi

Kanchan Nath Oct 12, 2022

Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts, Hilton’s iconic luxury hotel brand, announced its entry into Vietnam with the signing of Waldorf Astoria Hanoi.

Tourism

Thailand fully opens for tourists

Kanchan Nath Oct 3, 2022

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has stated that from 1 October international travellers to Thailand will no longer be required to show proof of vaccination or ATK test results, and a…

Road

MyTravelThru claims to be agile airport and non-airport transfer services – how true is it?

Kristin Mariano Sep 30, 2022

Travelling is easy and fun because of the airport transfer services. MyTravelThru was founded by Tan Mai in Vietnam just before the COVID-19 situation. Vietnam is a popular tourist…

Japan

Flight searches to Japan double on Expedia

Kanchan Nath Sep 26, 2022

Lavinia Rajaram, Asia head of public relations, Expedia Group stated that search demand for travel to Japan on Expedia doubled following Japan Prime Minister Fumio Kishida’s announcement to…

Airlines and Aviation

THAI announces its winter flight schedule 2022-2023

Kanchan Nath Sep 26, 2022

Thai Airways (THAI) is operating flights on 34 European, Australian and Asian routes with increased frequencies in selected routes, from 30 October 2022 to 25 March 2023.

Airports

Goa Airport to get international charter flights

Kanchan Nath Sep 16, 2022

Goa Airport has received a request for slots for the arrival of international charter flights from eight destinations, including Russia, which will be approved by the end of September.

Hotels

DoubleTree by Hilton Damai Laut Resort opens with 294 keys

Kanchan Nath Sep 15, 2022

Hilton opens DoubleTree by Hilton Damai Laut Resort, a 294-room beachfront resort that overlooks the Straits of Malacca

Tourism Boards

MAG partners with STB to promote Singapore

Kanchan Nath Sep 9, 2022

Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) and the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) have partnered to promote Singapore.

Airlines and Aviation

Emirates To Operate A380 Services To Auckland

Joe Cusmano Sep 7, 2022

Emirates has announced that it will resume nonstop A380 flights between Dubai and Auckland beginning 1 December 2022. The airline now serves Auckland with a Boeing 777-300ER service…

Partner content

Putrajaya Marriott Hotel: A place for everyone to meet and relax

Kristin Mariano Sep 7, 2022

If you are looking for the perfect place to meet and relax? You can never go wrong with Putrajaya Marriott Hotel.

Hotels

Leisure travel fuels Hyatt’s growth in Asia Pacific

Kanchan Nath Sep 6, 2022

Hyatt Hotels Corporation announced plans for the continued growth of its brand portfolio in Asia Pacific with a robust pipeline of landmark luxury and lifestyle hotels and resorts.

Global

Malaysia Airlines further expands partnership with Sabre

Kanchan Nath Sep 6, 2022

Malaysia’s national carrier plans to utilise Sabre technology to help optimise scheduling, reduce costs and grow revenue as it focuses on recovery.

Partner content

Add a sense of culture to your next event in these Marriott International hotels

Kristin Mariano Sep 5, 2022

With the many Marriott International hotels in different regions in APAC, take your guests to a city full of historical and cultural experiences.

Airlines and Aviation

A star is born as Air New Zealand unveils new Star Alliance aircraft

Kristin Mariano Aug 30, 2022

Kiwis will see a new star in the sky over Aotearoa as Air New Zealand reveals its world-first Star Alliance livery. The airline’s newest A321neo will sport a one-of-a-kind look – a…

Global

Air New Zealand unveils the world’s first black Star Alliance aircraft

Kanchan Nath Aug 29, 2022

Kiwis will see a new star in the sky over Aotearoa as Air New Zealand reveals its world-first Star Alliance livery.

Tourism

Build back better

Kanchan Nath Aug 29, 2022

“Build Back Better” is the theme for the Travel Agent Federation of India (TAFI) Convention 2022, set to take place at Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia from 20-23 September.

Air

World’s busiest airport in August was Dubai International

Kanchan Nath Aug 24, 2022

Dubai International (DXB) recorded 14.2 million passengers in the second quarter of 2022, a year-on-year jump of 190.6%. It remained the world’s busiest international airport in August.

Airlines and Aviation

Malaysia Airlines upgrades Australian Routes To A330neos

Joe Cusmano Aug 22, 2022

Malaysia Airlines has decided to upgrade its fleet of A330 jets to the most recent A330neo type, promising passengers a more modern and pleasant experience on flights from Australia to…

Hotels

Hilton Burau Bay Resort Langkawi to open by 2024 with 251 keys

Kanchan Nath Aug 18, 2022

Hilton has signed an agreement with Tradewinds Corporation Berhad to expand Hilton’s flagship brand in Malaysia with Hilton Burau Bay Resort Langkawi.

Appointment announcement

­­LUX* Grand Baie, Mauritius appoints Daniele Vastolo as new general manager

Kristin Mariano Aug 18, 2022

The Lux Collective has announced the appointment of Daniele Vastolo as the General Manager of LUX* Grand Baie, Mauritius. Opened in December 2021, this modern design-inspired luxury…

Cruise

Royal Caribbean’s Spectrum Of The Seas returns to Malaysia’s ports

Kristin Mariano Aug 10, 2022

Spectrum of the Seas is charting a course that will help boost Malaysia’s tourism sector. On the back of a successful first port call in Kuala Lumpur on 1 July and Penang on 2 July after…

Hotels

Hilton Expands Malaysia Portfolio with DoubleTree by Hilton Shah Alam i-City

Kristin Mariano Aug 2, 2022

Hilton has announced the opening of DoubleTree by Hilton Shah Alam i-City, a 300-room contemporary hotel that provides easy access to the city’s prime manufacturing hubs and recreational…

Air

Malaysia Airlines to operate second daily flight to Doha

Megha Paul Jul 21, 2022

This additional service strengthens Malaysia Airlines and Qatar Airways’ strategic partnership, allowing passengers to travel to over 96 codeshare destinations

Air

AirAsia X launches three new routes

Megha Paul Jul 20, 2022

AirAsia X confirms its latest services to Melbourne (Tullamarine), and Perth in Australia and Auckland in New Zealand will launch on 1 November 2022

Summers out and international travel is coming back – Agoda

Kristin Mariano Jul 20, 2022

Agoda has revealed the top trending holiday destinations now that international travel is slowly becoming the norm again. Travellers are dusting off their suitcases and ready to embrace…

Air

Malaysia Airlines renews pact for five years with SITA to boost global connections

Megha Paul Jul 18, 2022

As part of the five-year agreement, Malaysia Airlines will leverage SITA Connect, specifically designed for the air transport industry, to meet the airline’s needs in and outside airports

Airports

Vietjet makes further inroads into India, plans new route to Bangalore

Megha Paul Jul 15, 2022

The new flight services are planned to link Bengaluru to Hanoi, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), three of Vietnam's most well-known business and tourism cities

Travel Tech

Japan Airlines joins the list of notable airlines available on airasia Super App

Kristin Mariano Jul 8, 2022

The list of notable global carriers available on the airasia Super App’s online travel agent (OTA) platform continues to grow, with Japan Airlines (JAL) being the latest addition to grant…

Travelex to create 1,200 new international jobs as travel recovers

Megha Paul Jun 29, 2022

The announcement follows a series of major new contract wins across the APAC, Europe, MET and UK regions as both the international travel and FX markets continue to strongly recover…

5 reasons why your next event should be in Four Points by Sheraton Puchong

Kristin Mariano Jun 24, 2022

Hold your next event at Four Points by Sheraton Puchong, which is a town that is slightly in the outskirts of Malaysia’s capital.

Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts set to debut in Malaysia

Kristin Mariano Jun 21, 2022

Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts, one of Hilton’s luxury hotel brands, has announced its expansion into Malaysia with Waldorf Astoria Kuala Lumpur. Scheduled to open in 2024, Waldorf…

10 Marriott hotels with amazing outdoor venues for your next event

Kristin Mariano Jun 7, 2022

Marriott hotels are at the forefront of MICE holding important events and conferences.

Ascott acquires first lyf coliving property in Sydney

Kristin Mariano Jun 7, 2022

CapitaLand Investment Limited’s (CLI) wholly owned lodging business unit, The Ascott Limited (Ascott) is acquiring its first lyf-branded coliving property in Sydney, Australia.

Cruise

Royal Caribbean sets course for international shores on Singapore cruises

Megha Paul Jun 6, 2022

Cruises to somewhere are making a long-awaited comeback in Singapore when Spectrum of the Seas begins cruising to popular destinations in Malaysia as soon as 30 June

Hotels

5 reasons why Le Méridien Putrajaya is the new MICE playground in Malaysia

Kristin Mariano May 26, 2022

Le Méridien Putrajaya has become a premier MICE destination in the emerging city of Putrajaya.

Airlines and Aviation

Malaysia Airlines launches a Bonus Side Trip in Malaysia on selected tickets to Asia and Australasia

Kristin Mariano May 26, 2022

Malaysia Airlines is pleased to announce that it has re-launched its Bonus Side Trip product campaign where passengers can add a stop in Malaysia to their journey from the UK to Asia and…

Palm Garden Putrajaya: A relaxing oasis in the city

Kristin Mariano May 24, 2022

Now is the perfect opportunity to explore the transformation of Palm Garden Putrajaya, which will be undergoing several phases of renovations.

OTAs & Tour Operators

Most popular destinations for Singaporeans this summer

Kristin Mariano May 23, 2022

Tripadvisor has released its Seasonal Travel Index, using a combination of search and sentiment data to reveal what is on the minds of Singaporean travellers ahead of the busy summer travel…

Airlines and Aviation

Emirates signs MoC with Malaysia Tourism Board

Kristin Mariano May 16, 2022

Emirates has signed a Memorandum of Collaboration (MoC) with Malaysia Tourism Board today during the 29th edition of the Arabian Travel Market held in Dubai, to promote tourism and develop…

Global

Batik Air launched! Malindo Air has a new name

Megha Paul May 9, 2022

The rebranding exercise is in line with the Lion Group’s goal to establish a common identity for the full service airlines within the group

Travel Tech

Demand for travel to Southeast Asia increases as borders reopen

Kristin Mariano Apr 19, 2022

As borders begin to reopen across Southeast Asia, increased flight bookings show how excited travellers are to return to the region.

Air

AirAsia resumes flights between India, Malaysia and Thailand

Megha Paul Apr 11, 2022

AirAsia said it is resuming flights connecting India with Malaysia and Thailand from this month.

Reopening updates

Myanmar reopens to travellers

Megha Paul Mar 22, 2022

Myanmar will reopen to international tourists on 17 April, the junta government announced after a two-year shut-down due to the Covid-19 pandemic

Crowne Plaza accelerates growth in Asia Pacific

Kristin Mariano Mar 15, 2022

Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts, one of the world’s largest and best known upscale brands and part of IHG Hotels & Resorts’ premium collection, is continuing its rapid growth across…

Airlines and Aviation

Malaysia Airlines Signs Codeshare Agreement With Qatar Airways

Joe Cusmano Mar 9, 2022

Qatar Airways and Malaysia Airlines have signed an agreement designed to further facilitate strategic cooperation.

Quarantine Free Travel

Malaysia mulls more more travel lanes with Thailand

Megha Paul Mar 1, 2022

As Malaysia and Thailand take the first steps towards fully reopening borders to tourism, the countries are looking at facilitating more travel to promote tourism

Quarantine Free Travel

SIA Group expands VTL flight network with new destinations and increased flight frequencies

Kristin Mariano Feb 18, 2022

The Singapore Airlines (SIA) Group will expand its Vaccinated Travel Lane (VTL) network to 47 cities from 25 countries in the coming weeks.

Romantic destinations around the world

Kristin Mariano Feb 11, 2022

Every year on the 14th of February millions of people send their Valentine’s Day cards, flowers and gifts to celebrate one of the most romantic days of the year, and for those wishing to…

Features

Most popular destinations to celebrate the Year of the Tiger

Kristin Mariano Feb 1, 2022

Big cities and tourist favourites are back in favour for travel this Lunar New Year as travellers head to tourist hotspots to ring in the year of the Tiger, according to booking data from…

Ascott opens first coliving property in Singapore’s research and innovation hub one-north

Kristin Mariano Jan 26, 2022

CapitaLand Investment Limited’s (CLI) wholly owned lodging business unit, The Ascott Limited (Ascott) has launched lyf one-north Singapore, its first coliving property in one-north,…

What will AirAsia fly next? Drones

Megha Paul Jan 13, 2022

AirAsia announced that it has secured its Certificate of Approval (COA) from the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM), to conduct remote drone pilot training

Air

Vietnam resumes regular international flights from 15 December

Megha Paul Dec 10, 2021

In a plan submitted by the Transport Ministry, Vietnam wants to resume regular international flights on nine routes from 15 December

Podcast: The spotlight on Aviation, Part I – Geoffrey Thomas

Cynthia Dammerer Dec 6, 2021

In this limited aviation focused podcast series, the first episode drops today, when we have a chat to Mr Aviation himself, Geoffrey Thomas, Editor-In-Chief of AirlingRatings.com, who is one…

AirAsia resumes flight to quarantine-free Bangkok with inaugural flight

Megha Paul Nov 10, 2021

AirAsia is announcing more good news as the inaugural flight to Bangkok took off, with many exciting promotions and deals awaiting guests travelling to Thailand

AirAsia flies 113 weekly flights into Sarawak from 1 November

Megha Paul Nov 1, 2021

AirAsia welcomes the announcement by the Sarawak State Transport Minister Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin to boost flight frequency into the state starting 1 November 2021, further easing the…

Revealed! Beirut, Lebanon and Great Pyramid of Giza lost over $12 billion in revenue due to Covid-19

Megha Paul Oct 12, 2021

ETIAS has analysed all the wonders of the world - from ancient, new, to city-based, and natural - and collated visitor numbers as well as revenue loss from Covid-19

Airlines and Aviation

Oman Air to join Oneworld

Joe Cusmano Sep 30, 2021

A report on Reuters on Sunday stated that Oman Air had decided to apply for membership in the Oneworld Alliance, whose chairman currently is Akbar Al Baker, CEO of Qatar Airways.

Several airlines are keen to fly to Hua Hin, Thailand

Kristin Mariano Sep 2, 2021

Several airlines are passionate to start operations to Hua Hin, Thailand later this year, opening further the accessibility of this idyllic Thailand Riviera.

Air

Jetstar brings back transit with Air France, KLM and British Airways at Changi Airport

Megha Paul Aug 23, 2021

Jetstar Asia has welcomed back Air France, KLM and British Airways to its international carrier partnerships

Airlines and Aviation

Miss flying? Malaysia Airlines new ASMR experience takes you on a journey

Kristin Mariano Jul 29, 2021

Malaysia Airlines has released a new autonomous sensory meridian response (ASMR) experience.

Airlines and Aviation

Qatar Airways introduces new business class suite

Joe Cusmano Jun 30, 2021

Qatar Airways will launch its new Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner passenger aircraft, featuring its eagerly awaited new Business Class Suite, on several key routes to Europe and Asia, it started…

Airlines and Aviation

Malaysia Airlines retires the Airbus A380 fleet in coming months

Joe Cusmano May 7, 2021

Malaysia Airlines has become the latest in a string of airlines to ditch the Airbus A380.

Features

More international flights to Hua Hin, Thailand soon

Kristin Mariano Apr 7, 2021

Getting to the seaside resort city of Hua Hin may become easier for international tourists as more direct flights will land soon in the city’s international airport.

Vaccination Updates

Global vaccine rollout improves 2021’s travel outlook, says Agoda CEO John Brown

Kristin Mariano Mar 31, 2021

Confidence in the vaccine rollouts, discussions around COVID-19 passports, and alternative state quarantine announcements have triggered an increase in international travel searches for…

Interviews

Why passengers can rely on Qatar Airways for a safe journey

Kristin Mariano Mar 11, 2021

Here is a story of an airline that embraced the change and immediately adapted to the “new normal” while keeping the mission of “connecting families” at its core.

Air

IATA Calls for Governments to Reopen Borders

Joe Cusmano Feb 1, 2021

IATA director general, Alain de Juniac, during his first Covid-19 briefing for 2021 has called for governments to focus on reopening borders to international aviation.

Air

Aviation stares at a bleak future with added restrictions: IATA

Megha Paul Jan 14, 2021

IATA has said that while it is seen that airlines turning cash positive within the year, the near-term picture is bleak

Qatar Airways: Full year of flexibility in 2021

Harry S. Johnson Dec 22, 2020

Qatar Airways has announced that it will offer passengers unlimited date changes and fee-free refunds for all tickets issued before 30 April 2021 for travel completed by 31 December 2021.

Qatar Airways surprises and delights passengers this Holiday Season

Harry S. Johnson Dec 17, 2020

Qatar Airways is delighted to welcome this festive season by creating special moments that will surprise and delight our passengers both on board and on the ground.

Malaysia allows interstate travel from today

Megha Paul Dec 7, 2020

The government’s move to allow inter-state travel effective will benefit the travel and tourism industry which has been hit by the ongoing pandemic

Podcast: Lombok

Steve Collins Nov 22, 2020

Lombok is an island in West Nusa Tenggara province, Indonesia. It forms part of the chain of the Lesser Sunda Islands

Tourism Boards

Malaysia reopening slated in Q1 2021 starting with ASEAN countries

Kristin Mariano Sep 28, 2020

Malaysia is reportedly planning to reopen its tourism by the first quarter of 2021.

Johor Bahru top choice for domestic travel in Malaysia

Megha Paul Sep 4, 2020

As domestic and regional travel picks up steam in many parts of the world in tandem with the relaxing of travel restrictions, OYO has moved to capture the early travel trends, in the first…

All of Asia’s Eyes Turn to Bali

Gary Bowerman Aug 13, 2020

The countdown is on. Will Bali really open to international arrivals on 11 September – and if it does, who will visit? By Gary Bowerman

Jetstar Asia boosts services to key Southeast Asia ports

Megha Paul Aug 10, 2020

From today, Jetstar Asia will increase the number of services it operates to key Southeast Asian ports with the aim to create essential travel links and assist with freight in the region

5 ways how Wyndham’s Count on Us initiative keeps you safe when you can travel again

Kristin Mariano Jul 30, 2020

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts has launched its Count on Us initiative in every property worldwide to build confidence among guests and to support Wyndham hotel partners as they prepare to…

Cathay “Cares” from check-in to landing

Kristin Mariano Jul 17, 2020

Cathay Pacific introduces health and safety protocol - Cathay Care.

20 Unpredictable Travel Outcomes So Far in 2020

Gary Bowerman Jun 29, 2020

t’s no secret that the first half of 2020 has been challenging for the travel industry. In combination, the coronavirus pandemic and government responses to suppress the virus saw the demand…

Flight to recovery: AirAsia breaks post-hibernation daily sales record

Megha Paul Jun 26, 2020

AirAsia registered its highest post-hibernation sale day, with a record-breaking 41,000 seats sold in a single day across AirAsia Group, signifying a strong rebound in demand for air…

Malindo Air resumes operations

Megha Paul Apr 28, 2020

After suspending all flights due to Malaysia’s lockdown, Malindo Air has resumed domestic services from Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) and Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport,…

Smile on! Marriott lights up across Asia Pacific to spark hope

Megha Paul Apr 13, 2020

Marriott International across Asia Pacific is lighting up its properties to send a positive message, offering a ray of hope to the communities they are in for locals and travellers…

Cathay Pacific to reduce passenger capacity by 96% in April and May

Megha Paul Mar 20, 2020

Cathay Pacific and Cathay Dragon will reduce capacity by 96% across its passenger network in April and May in light of the severe drop in demand due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic…

Here’s why Le Méridien Putrajaya is a top MICE hotel in Malaysia

Kristin Mariano Mar 10, 2020

Situated in Malaysia’s gleaming planned city, here are several reasons why Le Méridien Putrajaya is one of the best MICE hotels in Malaysia.

AirAsia X unveils first-ever long haul free seat sale

Megha Paul Feb 24, 2020

Fly extra long on AirAsia for less than ever before, as the airline goes the extra mile to offer guests zero-fare seats for the first time ever on many popular long-haul destinations,…

Hello Jojo! Berjaya Hotels unveils direct flight from Subang Airport to Redang Island

Megha Paul Feb 24, 2020

Berjaya Hotels & Resorts (BHR) has announced the launch of its inaugural flight from Subang Airport, Kuala Lumpur (also known as Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport or Subang Skypark…

Middle East

Gulf Air’s 2020 vision of expansion and modernisation

Alastair Newport Feb 6, 2020

Gulf Air recently held its annual internal commercial conference which was attended by the airline’s chairman, executive management, station managers from the entire network, Bahrain Tourism…

AirAsia announces Ahmedabad route

Megha Paul Feb 5, 2020

AirAsia announced a new direct route to Ahmedabad from Kuala Lumpur with four times weekly flights commencing 29 April 2020. These new services will support a vast market of 62 million…

Malaysia Airport pilots single token journey concept at KLIA

Megha Paul Jan 31, 2020

Malaysia Airports Holdings (MAHB) is piloting its single token journey concept at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA). The concept leverages on facial recognition technology to…

AirAsia has landed at Okinawa, Japan

Megha Paul Jan 23, 2020

AirAsia’s maiden flight to Okinawa, Japan landed at Naha Airport, marking the beginning of a unique low-cost passageway connecting the island with East Asia and Southeast Asia, providing…

Malaysia Airlines launches offer for Heathrow Rewards members

Megha Paul Jan 14, 2020

In celebration of a new decade, Malaysia Airlines, has partnered with Heathrow Rewards offering a special discount on flight to members. Until 25 January 2020, Heathrow Rewards members…

Sinful delights: Special desserts on THAI platter

Megha Paul Dec 31, 2019

Thai Airways International will serve passengers with special desserts to celebrate New Year on lunch and dinner time flights from Bangkok, 31 December 2019 and 1 January 2020. The…

“This town is ripe with business opportunities”: Wyndham opens its latest flagship property

Alastair Newport Dec 19, 2019

Hotel management firm Wyndham Hotels & Resorts has announced the opening of its flagship Wyndham hotel brand in the Royal Town of Klang, just outside Kuala Lumpur, today. Owned by…

The balancing act of driving business and revenue

Christian Tolentino Dec 16, 2019

In this exclusive interview, we ring in the new year with cluster director of sales Amy Khiew, as she shares her thoughts on driving revenue by understanding the product and leading sales…

Tourism

Chinese tourists will be taught how to behave in Malaysia

Kristin Mariano Dec 5, 2019

“We will educate our tourists to behave properly in Malaysia,” says China’s ambassador to Malaysia Bai Tian. China has acknowledged that the embassy had received numerous complaints…

Slow Travel and Micro Escapes: Trends to watch out for in 2020

Alastair Newport Nov 19, 2019

Skyscanner has published its APAC Travel Trends Report for 2020. today. Following research into the booking preferences of Asia-Pacific (APAC) travellers, the report has revealed that Slow…

AirAsia boosts capacity between KL and SG

Alastair Newport Nov 1, 2019

AirAsia has announced it will boost the number of seats available between Singapore and Kuala Lumpur with the introduction of twice-daily flights, on 10 November 2019, powered by the…

5 cities that are perfect for hop-on hop-off tours

Kristin Mariano Oct 30, 2019

Most tourists want to make the most of their visit to any city and would like to see as many attractions as much as possible. One of the easiest ways to achieve this goal is to take…

Conrad Hotels to debut in Malaysia

Megha Paul Oct 14, 2019

Hilton has announced the signing of a management agreement with Permodalan Nasional Berhad (PNB) to open Conrad Kuala Lumpur in the heart of the Malaysian capital. Slated for completion…

Malaysia Airlines launches bonus side trip programme

Megha Paul Oct 7, 2019

Malaysia Airlines has launched its ‘Bonus Side Trip’ programme, which allows passengers to break their long-haul flight to Australia or New Zealand and explore another destination at…

Tourism

Passenger service charge reduced in Malaysia

Megha Paul Oct 3, 2019

AirAsia has introduced a reduced passenger service charge (PSC) at Kuala Lumpur International Airport 2 (klia2) and other international airports in Malaysia. The move follows last…

BA announces new codeshare deal with Malaysia Airlines

Alastair Newport Oct 2, 2019

British Airways has announced a new codeshare agreement with oneworld partner Malaysia Airlines today. The code will be added to 14 destinations the airline serves in Malaysia,…

YTL to debut new Marriott brand in Malaysia

Megha Paul Sep 18, 2019

YTL Hotels and Marriott International have announced the signing of a master development agreement to bring the AC Hotels by Marriott brand to Malaysia for the first time. The AC Hotels…

Unplugged: W Hotels and Mixcloud present Future Rising Asia

Megha Paul Sep 10, 2019

W Hotels Worldwide, the lux rebel of Marriott International, has announced it has once again joined forces with Mixcloud, the world’s leading long form music streaming platform that is…

Asia’s top ten cities for meetings & events

Alastair Newport Sep 4, 2019

CWT M&E, CWT’s MICE division, has unveiled its top ten of the best locations for holding meetings and events in the Asia Pacific, ahead of the publication of WT’s 2020 Meetings &…

AirAsia X places 42 plane order with Airbus

Megha Paul Sep 3, 2019

AirAsia X has finalised a firm order with Airbus for an additional 12 A330-900 and 30 A321XLR aircraft. The contract was signed by Rafidah Aziz, chairman of AirAsia X and Guillaume…

Inaugural Malaysia Travel & Tourism Mart 2020 announced

Megha Paul Aug 30, 2019

CEMS Conference & Exhibition (Malaysia) announced the launch of Malaysia Tourism and Travel Mart 2020 (MTTM 2020) to be held from 25-27 June 2020 at Malaysia International Trade and…

Qatar Airways unveils Langkawi route

Megha Paul Aug 28, 2019

Qatar Airways has announced a new route to Langkawi, Malaysia. The service to Langkawi, starting 15 October 2019, is part of the airline’s strong expansion plans in Southeast Asia and…

AirAsia cuts fees in Malaysia

Megha Paul Aug 20, 2019

AirAsia will remove processing fees for Malaysia for bookings made from 1 October to keep air travel affordable for all. Starting with Malaysia, AirAsia will subsequently remove…

THAI commemorates coronation with royal barge livery on aircraft

Megha Paul Aug 19, 2019

Thai Airways, the national carrier of Thailand, has decked up with the Suphannahong Royal Barge aircraft livery to commemorate the coronation of the King this year. "The royal…

AirAsia celebrates ASEAN Day

Megha Paul Aug 16, 2019

AirAsia has introduced a ‘Sustainable ASEAN’ livery on its newest Airbus A320 to mark ASEAN Day celebrations in Bangkok. Alongside the ASEAN chairmanship logo, the special livery…

UNIGLOBE expands Malaysian network

Megha Paul Aug 14, 2019

UNIGLOBE Travel International has expanded its network to Malaysia with the addition of UNIGLOBE Sayu Travel and Tours. An IATA-registered agency, UNIGLOBE Sayu Travel and Tours has 50…

Air

MAHB should prioritise critical issues over proposed KLIA-klia2 integration, says Air Asia

Megha Paul Aug 1, 2019

AirAsia has called on Malaysia Airports Holdings (MAHB) to prioritise more critical operational and passenger issues at klia2, rather than on plans to integrate the low-cost carrier hub…

Asia

Airbus A220-300 hits the road in Asia

Alastair Newport Jul 30, 2019

An Airbus A220-300 flight test aircraft will visit six Asian destinations as part of a demonstration tour across the region. After a stopover at Seoul’s Incheon Airport the aircraft heads to…

Hospitality

AmEx’s Hotel Monitor 2020 report predicts highest room rate growth for APAC in Bengaluru

Megha Paul Jul 29, 2019

The recent Hotel Monitor 2020 report by American Express Global Business Travel (GBT) with the support of Global Business Consulting (GBC) predicts highest room rate growth for Bengaluru…

Tourism

East Rift Valley showcases offerings in Malaysia

Megha Paul Jul 20, 2019

The East Rift Valley National Scenic Area Administration (ERV Administration) of Taiwan is leading tour operators to attend the 2019 international MITM Travel Fair 2019 in Johor,…

Air

Srilankan bullish on Colombo-Delhi route, unveils third freqeuncy

Megha Paul Jul 5, 2019

SriLankan Airlines has announced additional frequencies between Colombo and Delhi to take its total weekly offerings between the two capitals to 18 flights. Apart from the existing two…

Airlines and Aviation

Flight bookings boom to South East Asia from UAE

Megha Paul Jun 27, 2019

According to a trends report released by Dubai-based online flight and hotel booking platform, tajawal, South East Asia is the summer hotspot for the UAE travellers. With its wealth of…

Hospitality

Agent alert: Hilton puts female bonding up front, stage centre

Alastair Newport Jun 27, 2019

It may be the second time in a week that I have sipped from the font of 80’s chart music to frame a story but when Cyndi Lauper sung: “Some boys take a beautiful girl; And hide her away from…

Hospitality

Meituan, Compass Hospitality pair up to lure Chinese tourists

Megha Paul Jun 26, 2019

China’s e-commerce platform for services Meituan and Bangkok-headquartered Compass Hospitality Hotel Group inked a strategic cooperation agreement that aims to provide convenient, safe…

Tourism

Chugging off: Now aboard the Eastern & Oriental Express for an exclusive lunch experience

Megha Paul Jun 24, 2019

Inbound tour operator based in Thailand, Diethelm Travel Thailand has collaborated with the iconic Eastern & Oriental Express luxury train to offer an exclusive journey this 2-3…

Global

Summer Bonanza: AirAsia Sale is back

Megha Paul Jun 17, 2019

For a limited time only, AirAsia is taking its ‘free seats sale’ to new heights, launching a bigger and better sale of five million promotional seats. The sale will begin on 17 June…

Air

Qatar Airways starts three flights a day from Manchester

Megha Paul Jun 17, 2019

Qatar Airways is increasing its flight frequency from Manchester Airport to three flights per day from 14 June in another show of confidence in the UK market. The route launched in April…

OTAs & Tour Operators

Ready, Set, Summer: Agoda.com reveals top holiday destinations

Megha Paul Jun 11, 2019

With the summer holidays fast approaching, Agoda reveals Tokyo, London and Las Vegas continue to hold the top destination spots in 2019. Japan dominates Asia Pacific travellers’…

Air

IndiGo to unveil two new international routes this July

Megha Paul Jun 6, 2019

IndiGo is set to launch two new international routes from July. These will be Mumbai-Dammam (Saudi Arabia) and Chennai-Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia). It will also unveil a second direct flight…

MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferencing, Exhibitions)

Malaysia makes headway to attract more business travellers

Megha Paul May 29, 2019

Malaysia is witnessing a good response from business travellers from the European and Asian market with the recent launch of the enhanced Malaysia Like Never Before campaign and Malaysia…

Startups

Neuron scoots in Bangkok

Kristin Mariano May 8, 2019

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.

Hotels

Urbanpod: India’s first capsule hotel to expand in the next two years

Christian Tolentino Apr 30, 2019

Urbanpod, India's first capsule hotel, has announced its plans to expand with about 800 pods at 6-7 locations in the next two years.

Global

Aviation round up: Munich Airport gets radical with gnarly competition

Alastair Newport Apr 11, 2019

This this week’s collection of aviation round up is mixed bag of new routes and announcements but, for the first time ever, it also features skateboarding…rad!

MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferencing, Exhibitions)

Marriott launches “one-stop-shop” for MICE planners in APAC

Christian Tolentino Apr 1, 2019

Marriott International has launched Marriott Events Asia, a dedicated meetings and events website for the APAC region, designed for MICE professionals.

Corporate & Business

Phenomenal females: Wise words from the top women in travel

Kristin Mariano Mar 8, 2019

In celebration of International Women’s Day, I asked several women holding top positions in the travel industry how they managed to achieve their success and the advice they will give to…

Global

Aviation round up: Turkish delight and confirmed rumours

Alastair Newport Mar 5, 2019

This week’s aviation round up channels the spirit of spring and Easter with the ‘rebirth’ of a favourite livery for an iconic airline, the launch of a new cabin product and  confirmation of…

Corporate & Business

Here are the top destinations for bleisure travel

Kristin Mariano Mar 5, 2019

Tokyo ranks first out of 26 cities in the region for its combination of business and leisure—or bleisure—appeal for travellers.

Hotels

Four Seasons marks 2019 with nine global openings

Christian Tolentino Feb 13, 2019

2019 becomes a significant year for Four Seasons as it holds several new openings, including the debut of its first standalone private residences in London.

Airlines and Aviation

AirAsia cries foul after MAHB slaps new legal threat

Kristin Mariano Feb 12, 2019

The rift between AirAsia and Malaysia Airport Holdings Bhd (MAHB) is far from over after the airline announced MAHB has sent a letter demanding the airline withdraw its press statements.

Hotels

“Nothing replaces the human factor”: GM of The Westin KL

Mili Feb 1, 2019

The Westin KL's new GM talks about patience, communication and the value of movement in a career.

HR & Careers

Building a legacy: The Four Seasons story

Kim Kalanon Jan 31, 2019

Synonymous with luxury, the Four Seasons brand is the definition of personal service, lavish design and premium quality. From humble beginnings, Four Seasons currently manages 112 hotels…

Vietnam

Tết-a-Tết: Bangkok vs Ho Chi Minh in the battle for Vietnamese New Year

Alastair Newport Jan 28, 2019

With 5 February fast approaching, Tết, the Vietnamese New Year , is almost upon us. The nation festival – where Vietnamese  from far and wide make the pilgrimage back to their hometown and…

Air

AirAsia files MYR 400m counter-claim against MAHB

Christian Tolentino Jan 24, 2019

AirAsia has revealed that it’s seeking more than MYR 400 million (USD 96.73m) in counter-claims against Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (MAHB).

Tourism

Tourism: Key to the rise of new-age Asian tigers

Mili Jan 4, 2019

Cracking the inbound tourism growth to determine the new age Asian tigers.

Global

20/20 Vision: Wyndham’s APAC president’s plans for 2019 and beyond

Alastair Newport Dec 19, 2018

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…

Air

Jet, set, go: AirAsia to set up a low-cost carrier in Vietnam

Mili Dec 6, 2018

Asia's popular budget carrier, AirAsia has signed a Memorandum of Cooperation reaffirming its intention to set up a low-cost carrier in Vietnam with local partners.

Hotels

Preferred Hotels unveils 23 worldwide hotels for 2019

Alastair Newport Dec 3, 2018

Preferred Hotels unveil the latest properties to be added throughout next year.

Tourism

The rise of Asia’s second-tier cities as the new go-to place for tourists

Christian Tolentino Dec 3, 2018

Mastercard has released the Mastercard Asia Pacific Destinations Index (APDI) 2018 — revealing the most preferred travel destinations in Asia.

Hotels

URC announces luxury hotel in Beijing’s Forbidden City

Christian Tolentino Nov 20, 2018

Urban Resort Concepts (URC) has announced the launch of its latest luxury offering, The PuXuan Hotel and Spa, in Beijing’s Forbidden City.

Global

The TD weekly aviation top five

Alastair Newport Nov 9, 2018

With so many airlines announcing new planes, new schedules and new destinations we have decided to introduce a weekly round-up of some of the most eye catching ones to land at on the news…

Airlines and Aviation

Oc-Toba: AirAsia touches down at Silangit International

Alastair Newport Oct 29, 2018

Lake Toba, Indonesia Earlier this month the Lake Toba Authority Executive Body (BPODT), a division of the Indonesian Tourism Ministry, signed an agreement with a group of private…

Hospitality

Hotelbeds: China source market grows by double digits

Kristin Mariano Oct 26, 2018

Leading bedbank Hotelbeds Group has confirmed the continuation of strong growth in wholesale sales in the Chinese source market.

Airlines and Aviation

AirAsia Bangkok-Colombo flight aims to showcase beauty of Sri Lanka and Thailand

Kristin Mariano Oct 23, 2018

You can now book AirAsia Bangkok-Colombo flight four times a week. Flying from Bangkok (Don Mueang) to Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka, a destination for faithful Buddhists as well as a…

Airlines and Aviation

Kunming soon: AirAsia launches fourth connection to Southwest China

Alastair Newport Oct 22, 2018

As the capital city of Yunnan Province in Southwest China, Kunming has earnt a reputation as one of the most popular tourist destinations in the region. Known locally as the 'City of Eternal…

Hotels

IHG reintroduces Regent Hotels & Resorts brand and inks first property in KL

Kristin Mariano Oct 19, 2018

InterContinental Hotels Group has announced the relaunch of Regent Hotels & Resorts brand that has set the bar for luxury accommodations.

Expedition Cruising

Crystal Cruises 2021 lineup includes 175 heritage sites

Kristin Mariano Oct 12, 2018

Crystal Cruises has announced its full lineup of 2021 for Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity, becoming the first cruise line to announce a complete 2021 deployment.

Appointments

Amadeus ramps up Airport IT in APAC with two senior appointments

Kristin Mariano Oct 11, 2018

Amadeus has announced the promotion of Sarah Samuel to Head of Airport IT, Asia Pacific and the appointment of Sunil Ankalgi to Head of Sales and Account Management for Airport IT, Asia…

MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferencing, Exhibitions)

Interview: Hilton’s MICE strategy in Malaysia

Christian Tolentino Oct 4, 2018

To learn more about Hilton's MICE strategy in Malaysia, we speak with Eugene Oelefse, Hilton’s national marketing and communications director for Malaysia.

Hospitality

Six Senses debuts in Cambodia’s Krabey Island

Christian Tolentino Sep 24, 2018

The Six Senses brand has announced the opening of its debut property in Cambodia — Six Senses Krabey Island.

Hospitality

Travelodge expands in Thailand with Phuket property

Christian Tolentino Sep 17, 2018

The UK-based hotel operator, Travelodge, has announced the third property of its brand in Thailand, scheduled to open for business in 2020.

Podcasts

The workforce of the future: When AI meets HR

Brett Henry Sep 12, 2018

TD spoke to Jitender Panihar on this week's podcast about how AI will affect the role of HR professionals and indeed the global workforce.

Airlines and Aviation

Three’s a charm: Vietjet launches third Japanese connection

Alastair Newport Aug 22, 2018

Vietjet has announced the launch of its new Hanoi - Tokyo (Narita, Japan) service with a special promotion on flights to a choice selection of some the airlines more popular destinations…

Airlines and Aviation

AirAsia takes off to India’s holy city of Amritsar

Christian Tolentino Aug 20, 2018

AirAsia has announced the launch of its new services to Amritsar, home to Sikh’s holiest shrine, The Golden Temple, and other historical and cultural sites.

Airlines and Aviation

Malindo Air launches debut international connection to Silangit, Indonesia

Christian Tolentino Aug 20, 2018

Malaysian premium airline, Malindo Air, has launched a direct international connection to Silangit International Airport, a gateway to the world’s largest volcanic lake located in Indonesia.…

Air

Early Ramadan linked to drop in APAC passenger numbers

Alastair Newport Aug 8, 2018

Passenger growth in the Middle East has experienced a decline of -4.5% according to a report from the Airports Council International Asian office.

Hospitality

Mövenpick opens the doors of its Malaysian MICE marvel

Alastair Newport Jul 19, 2018

Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts lays down roots in Malaysia with launch of Mövenpick Hotel & Convention Centre KLIA.

Hotels

“Quality settings in sustainable environments”: Talking strategy with Singha’s CHO

Alastair Newport Jul 14, 2018

Following Travel Daily's report on news that Singha Estates had signed a deal with Jalboot to run the marina within the company’s Crossroads project in the Maldives, I spoke to Dirk De…

United States

Four Seasons and NetJets unite to create “ultimate” luxury itineraries

Alastair Newport Jul 13, 2018

Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts and NetJets launch three customisable itineraries to Orlando and the Caribbean.

Asia

Ninjas, fireflies and the Forbidden City: Isango unveils latest Asian tours

Alastair Newport Jun 28, 2018

Experience specialists Isango announce new Asian itineraries, including updated trips to Malaysia, Japan, China, and Taiwan.

Airlines and Aviation

Osaka Castle to Ha Long Bay in half a day: Vietjet launches new route

Alastair Newport Jun 21, 2018

Roll up, roll up! Vietnamese low cost carrier (LCC) Vietjet is celebrating two new routes by releasing tickets for one million flights for free.

Hospitality

Five challenges faced by GMs opening a new hotel and how to solve them

Alastair Newport Jun 12, 2018

Back in mid-May I ran a story announcing Mövenpick’s new Malaysian MICE powerhouse Mövenpick Hotel & Convention Centre KLIA and the appointment of its new GM Hairul Maharis. Since then,…

Hospitality

Autograph Collection debuts in South Africa with African Pride

Christian Tolentino May 18, 2018

Marriott International’s distinctive Autograph Collection Hotels, welcomed five African Pride Hotels to its growing global portfolio, marking the brand’s debut in South Africa.

Tourism

AirAsia partners with Sarawak Tourism Board to support cornerstone music festivals

Christian Tolentino Apr 25, 2018

AirAsia is partnering with the Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) for the upcoming Borneo Jazz Festival to be held in Miri on 11-13 May and the Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF) taking place…

MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferencing, Exhibitions)

Hilton Malaysia introduces ‘Meet with Purpose’ programme

Alastair Newport Apr 24, 2018

No sooner than I include the Hilton Kuala, Lumpur on my list of the top four meetings and events locations in the Malaysian capital a couple of weeks ago, Hilton Worldwide upgrades its MICE…

Hotels

Radisson RED is coming for the coastal city of Cebu in the Philippines

Christian Tolentino Apr 20, 2018

Radisson Hotel Group has announced the signing of a flagship RED property, to be completed in Q4 2021: the Radisson RED Mandaue in Mandaue City, Cebu, Philippines.

Hospitality

Sunway targets expansion and performance with new hospitality CEO

Simon Willmore Apr 17, 2018

Sunway Hotels & Resorts today announced the appointment of André Scholl as chief executive officer to lead the companies hotel group.

Air

AirAsia hits 10 in ASEAN “strategic crossroads” with direct flights to Phuket and Hanoi

Alastair Newport Apr 10, 2018

Following on from our recent interview with Spencer Lee head of commercial for AirAsia Malaysia, where he discussed the growth of the carrier’s secondary hubs in Langkawi, Johor Bahru and…

Middle East

Infographic: Why luxury hotel stays in the UAE don’t have to break the bank

Alastair Newport Apr 6, 2018

New research from Skyscanner has identified the top global cities with the cheapest five-star hotels. The data, compiled by the global travel search engine and rendered into the handy…

Air

World’s first Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner arrives in Singapore

Alastair Newport Apr 5, 2018

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.

Air

For travellers by travellers: Aerotel open their first Euro location

Alastair Newport Mar 30, 2018

Plaza Premium Group has announced they will be unveiling the first European location of their international airport transit hotel brand Aerotel, at London Heathrow Airport Terminal 3 this…

Hotels

Le Meridien Putrajaya’s GM tells us why his hotel is aiming to be the MICE centre of Malaysia

Alastair Newport Mar 20, 2018

It's been little more than 18 months since Kumar Renoo took the helm as general manager at Le Meriden in Putrajaya, Malaysia's gleaming planned city. We caught up for a chat about…

Features

7 pod hotels to catch some rest on World Sleep Day 2018

Kristin Mariano Mar 16, 2018

Today, 16 March, we celebrate the benefits of good and healthy sleep - it's World Sleep Day! Good skin, a clear mind and better memory, these are only some of the benefits of a good night’s…

Hotels

Mövenpick Hotels to open 11 new properties in nine countries in 2018

Alastair Newport Mar 8, 2018

Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts is gearing up for another year of significant portfolio expansion as it forges ahead with plans to open 11 new properties in nine countries by the end of 20

Airlines and Aviation

Opening the skies with AirAsia Group’s Spencer Lee

Simon Willmore Mar 2, 2018

Spencer Lee, head of commercial for AirAsia Malaysia, looks quiet and unassuming. But if you talk about travel, the transport industry veteran can hardly contain his excitement. We sat down…

Entrepreneurs

Reclaim adventure by going Anywhr

Simon Willmore Feb 22, 2018

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…

Hotels

Preferred Hotels & Resorts reveal revenue of $1.35 billion in 2017

Alastair Newport Jan 25, 2018

Preferred Hotels & Resorts, has announced its 2017 year-end results. In 2017, the company generated $1.35 billion in reservations revenue on behalf of its member properties worldwide, a…

Hotels

Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts expanding global portfolio

Christian Tolentino Jan 24, 2018

After a year of highly successful openings including new builds, the rebirth of two historic landmarks and the conversion of one of the world’s finest resorts, Four Seasons Hotels and…

Hotels

Q&A with Arthur Kiong – CEO of Far East Hospitality

Alastair Newport Jan 18, 2018

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…

Travel Tech

Do as the locals in Asia do with the Be app

Simon Willmore Jan 16, 2018 23

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…

Airlines and Aviation

Macau – Phuket : AirAsia launch nightspot connection

Alastair Newport Jan 10, 2018

AirAsia celebrated its inaugural flight from Macau - Phuket yesterday, a new route which marks AirAsia’s seventh destination to Macao. Macau - Phuket flight FD625, operated by Thai AirAsia,…

Hotels

Michael Wu to spearhead AHG China expansion with 3 new brands

Alastair Newport Jan 10, 2018

Artyzen Hospitality Group (AHG), an Asian based international hotel management company, will launch three new brands in mainland China this year -- Artyzen Hotels & Resorts, Artyzen…

Airlines and Aviation

Malaysia Airlines to resume flights to Brisbane

Jill Sayles Jan 9, 2018

Malaysia Airlines has announced that it will be reinstating direct flights between Kuala Lumpur and Brisbane from 6 June 2018. The service will run four times a week, providing 120,000…

Hotels

Archipelago add 770 rooms and waterpark to ever expanding portfolio

Alastair Newport Jan 9, 2018

Archipelago International (A.I.) have announced further expansion into Asia will place with the signing of a 700-room management contract under the Quest Hotel brand. The Port Dickson…

Tourism

Adventoro opens Malaysia to tourists like never before

Alastair Newport Dec 13, 2017 19

Adventoro Travel Technologies has announced its official global launch. The  new online platform aims at helping people from anywhere in the world to discover and book adventure-based tours…

Hotels

Marriott and YTL Hotels 20 year relationship just got even stronger

Alastair Newport Dec 8, 2017 2

Marriott International and YTL Hotels have announced agreements for new hotels across Asia, strengthening both companies’ presence in the world’s fastest growing region.

Airlines and Aviation

Malaysia Airlines hosts largest fam trip

Jill Sayles Nov 14, 2017 17

Malaysia Airlines is taking travel trade partners on a tour of Malaysia on its largest familiarisation trip yet.  The group, which will include 30 representatives from some of travel…

Hotels

X2 Chiang Mai expects great things from award winning GM

Alastair Newport Nov 10, 2017 0

Ewan Taylor has been appointed general manager of X2 Chiang Mai Riverside Resort, the stylish new all-suite boutique resort which opened recently on the banks of the Ping River in Chiang…

Australia

Hotelbeds: potential for China market “vast and almost unimaginable”

Alastair Newport Oct 26, 2017 23

Hotelbeds Group, has announced today – at the ITB Asia event taking place in Singapore – outstanding growth in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region during the 2016/17.

Airlines and Aviation

Philippine Airlines launches B777-300ER on London-Manila route

Jill Sayles Oct 4, 2017 14

Philippine Airlines has launched the new B777-300ER aircraft on the London - Manila route. While the inaugural flight left Heathrow on 19 September, daily flights for the B777-300ER start…

Hotels

The Ritz-Carlton, Langkawi opens its doors

Alastair Newport Sep 21, 2017

The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. has announced the debut of The Ritz-Carlton, Langkawi, as the oceanfront resort opens today on the Malaysian island.  Set in a  private bay, the…

United States

The Ritz-Carlton Unveils A Tropical Paradise In Malaysia

Mark Elliott Sep 21, 2017 0

The Ritz-Carlton, Langkawi opens amid the island’s lush rainforest      LANGKAWI, MALAYSIA – 21 September 2017 – The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. is pleased to announce the debut of…

Hotels

Archipelago to open new five-star resort in Malaysia

Alastair Newport Sep 17, 2017

Archipelago International, Indonesia’s fastest growing hotel management company, is once again driving a wave of expansion with the announcement of a five-star villa resort in Port Dickson,…

Airlines and Aviation

MAS opens Surabaya

michael Sep 12, 2017

Malaysia Airlines it will be launching a new route to Surabaya, connecting Kuala Lumpur and the capital of the province of east Java, the company said in a statement. Operations to the…

Hotels

Dorsett Hospitality International Launches Dorsett Residences Bukit Bintang

michael Sep 12, 2017

Dorsett Hospitality International has confirmed the soft opening of the Group’s first integrated residences – Dorsett Residences Bukit Bintang – when it welcome welcomed its first guest – Mr…

Cruise

Mariner Of The Seas’ Last Asian Cruise

Alastair Newport Sep 11, 2017

Mariner of the Seas,Royal Caribbean International’s biggest cruise ship in Asia, returned to Singapore this weekend before embarking on her longest and final season. Operating out of Asia…

MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferencing, Exhibitions)

MICE costs rising

michael Sep 8, 2017

Overall cost per attendee per day for meetings and events around the globe increased in 2017 and is expected to continue rising next year, according to the 2018 Meetings and Events Future…

Airlines and Aviation

Malaysia Airlines launches three-day sales blitz and competition for agents

Jill Sayles Sep 4, 2017

Malaysia Airlines is running a three-day sales blitz in the UK to celebrate Malaysia Day on 16 September.  This initiative, which runs from the 5-7 September, includes visits to key…

Airlines and Aviation

Johor Bahru gets first direct link to India

Mark Elliott Aug 22, 2017

Johor Bahru, the Malaysian city that neighbours Singapore, will get its first direct air link to India later this year. AirAsia will continue to expand its international network from…

Airlines and Aviation

Malaysian PM launches Langkawi’s new Chinese connection

Mark Elliott Aug 21, 2017

Malaysia's Prime Minister, Najib Razak, has overseen the launch of AirAsia's new direct flight connecting Langkawi with mainland China. The low-cost carrier recently commenced the first…

Hotels

Where to Stay: the latest hotels in KL, Nagoya, Colombo and more

Mark Elliott Aug 18, 2017

Favehotel Tuban Location: On Basuki Rachmad Road in Tuban, the seaport in East Java, three hours' drive from Surabaya's Juanda International Airport Grade: Economy Keys: 105…

Airlines and Aviation

Asian air route updates, including connections to Krabi, Chongqing and Hiroshima

Mark Elliott Aug 15, 2017

Malaysia Airlines to launch Chongqing route Where? Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) to Chongqing (China) When? Three times a week, effective 30 October 2017 Who? Malaysia Airlines Why?…

Airlines and Aviation

AirAsia starts flying to Cambodia’s coast

Mark Elliott Aug 10, 2017

AirAsia has launched its first flights to Sihanoukville, Cambodia's main coastal resort. This week, the low-cost carrier commenced a new non-stop service which will now operate four…

Events

NagaWorld helps Cambodian athletes “Go for Gold”

Mark Elliott Aug 10, 2017

NagaWorld has extended its sponsorship of the National Olympic Committee of Cambodia (NOCC) and the country's athletes, by offering cash incentives for gold medallists at the 2017 Southeast…

Cruise

Star Cruises reveals triple Southeast Asian homeports

Mark Elliott Aug 8, 2017

Star Cruises has revealed plans to homeport one of its ships in three Southeast Asian ports from next month. From 3 September 2017 onwards, SuperStar Libra will be based at Kuala Lumpur,…

Airlines and Aviation

Etihad flies Dreamliner to Seoul

Mark Elliott Aug 3, 2017

Etihad Airways has introduced its Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft on the route to Seoul's Incheon International Airport. The new twin-aisle aircraft will now operate daily flights…

Hotels

Where to Stay: new hotels in Taiwan, China, Indonesia and more

Mark Elliott Aug 2, 2017

CitizenM Taipei North Gate Location: Overlooking the Tamsui River, within walking distance of Taipei Main Station Grade: Upper-upscale Keys: 267 Facilities: 24-hour F&B outlet,…

Airlines and Aviation

Cathay Pacific to fly A350 to New York

Mark Elliott Aug 2, 2017

Cathay Pacific will start flying its new Airbus A350 aircraft to New York later this year. Effective 29 October 2017, the airline's daily flights between Hong Kong and Newark Liberty…

Airlines and Aviation

Oman Air spreads wings in Asia Pacific

Mark Elliott Jul 31, 2017

Oman Air has expanded its Asia Pacific network with the signing of a codeshare partnership with Malaysia Airlines. Effective immediately, Oman Air passengers will be able to connect…

Airlines and Aviation

Asian air route updates from Hainan Airlines, AirAsia, Qatar Airways and more

Mark Elliott Jul 24, 2017

China gets reconnected to Belgrade Where? Beijing (China) to Belgrade (Serbia) When? Twice a week, effective 15 September 2017 Who? Hainan Airlines Why? Expanding links with Europe as…

Airlines and Aviation

SIA to offer more Asian connections for “Capital Express”

Mark Elliott Jul 21, 2017

Singapore Airlines has announced that its "Capital Express" service to Canberra and Wellington will be retimed to allow more Asian passengers to connect to the flights. From 28…

Airlines and Aviation

Nepal’s national carrier flies into online era

Mark Elliott Jul 18, 2017

The national carrier of Nepal has entered a new era with the launch of online ticketing services. China's Xinhua news agency reported Nepal Airlines Corporation (NAC) as saying that the…

Road

Asian cities poles apart in taxi charts

Mark Elliott Jul 18, 2017

Asia is home to some of the world's cheapest and most expensive airport taxi fares, a new report has revealed. In its "2017 Taxi Price Index", London-based Carspring found that a cab…

Airlines and Aviation

AirAsia celebrates 10 years in Shenzhen

Mark Elliott Jul 11, 2017

AirAsia has celebrated the 10 anniversary of flying to Shenzhen's Bao’an International Airport. The low-cost carrier first started operating to the Pearl River Delta city in July…

Airlines and Aviation

Asian air route updates from AirAsia, Fiji Airways, China Eastern and more

Mark Elliott Jul 6, 2017

Guiyang gets Italian charter flights Where? Milan (Italy) to Guiyang, pictured (China) When? Once a week, from 10 July to 2 October 2017 Who? Neos Why? Italian charter carrier creates…

Airlines and Aviation

AirAsia arrives in the USA

Mark Elliott Jun 29, 2017

AirAsia reached a major milestone this week when it touched down in the US for the first time. Flight D7001, operated by long-haul unit AirAsia X, landed at Honolulu International Airport…

Airlines and Aviation

Asian air route updates from AirAsia, China Airlines, Malindo and more

Mark Elliott Jun 28, 2017

AirAsia connects Thailand's regional cities Where? Chiang Mai to Ubon Ratchathani (both Thailand) When? Daily, effective immediately Who? Thai AirAsia Why? Low-cost carrier provides…

Airlines and Aviation

JAL upgrades Dreamliner seating

Mark Elliott Jun 23, 2017

Japan Airlines (JAL) is improving the seating onboard its fleet of Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners. The new "JAL Sky Suites", which have previously been rolled out on the airline's Boeing 767s,…

Cruise

Azamara offering up to four complimentary nights

Maria Airey Jun 22, 2017

Azamara Club Cruises offers savings of up to £1,000 per person on select 2018 voyages, when booked before 20 August 2017. The cruise line is offering travellers up to four complimentary…

Hotels

Hyatt ramps up roll-out of lifestyle brands

Mark Elliott Jun 16, 2017

Hyatt is accelerating the expansion of two of its so-called "lifestyle" brands, Hyatt Place and Hyatt House. In the first six months of 2017 the company opened 19 new hotels under…

Airlines and Aviation

AirAsia connects Bangkok with the Maldives

Mark Elliott Jun 14, 2017

AirAsia has unveiled plans to launch a new service allowing Thai travellers to fly direct to the Maldives. Commencing on 11 August 2017, the low-cost carrier will operate daily…

Hotels

Travelodge to debut in Thailand

Mark Elliott Jun 13, 2017

Travelodge will make its debut in Thailand in the coming weeks, with the launch of a new property in the resort town of Pattaya. On 1 July 2017, the former Premier Inn Pattaya will be…

Serviced Apartments

Frasers expands Capri brand for growing millennial market

Mark Elliott Jun 13, 2017

Frasers Hospitality has unveiled plans to add 12 more Capri-branded serviced residences across the world in the coming years, in a bid to meet "rising demand from millennial travellers".…

Malaysia

Win a 10 night holiday to Malaysia with Gold Medal

Jill Sayles Jun 9, 2017

Gold Medal is offering agents the chance to win a 10-night holiday to Malaysia as part of its latest campaign.  The incentive is running in conjunction with Malaysia Tourism and…

Airlines and Aviation

Philippine Airlines returns to KL

Mark Elliott Jun 9, 2017

Philippine Airlines has resumed daily flights to Kuala Lumpur after a three-year absence. The new service took off on Thursday (8 June 2017) and coincided with the start of a codeshare…

UK

Q&A – Pauline Cheung – Plaza Premium Lounges

Jill Sayles Jun 5, 2017

Travel Daily UK catches up with Pauline Cheung to hear about the Plaza Premium Lounges at London Heathrow Airport Tell us a bit about Plaza Premium Lounges - when did it launch, from…

Tourism

Long-haul holiday travel trends from Southall Travel

Maria Airey Jun 2, 2017

Booking data from travel company Southall Travel has revealed the top destinations of 2017. The Thai island of Phuket is the most popular long-haul destination for sun-seeking Brits this…

Appointments

The latest appointments from Movenpick, IHG, Six Senses and more…

Mark Elliott May 31, 2017

GERARD HOTELIER has become Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts' new vice president of operations for Asia. A long-term executive with the Swiss hotel group, Hotelier became GM of the Mövenpick…

Airlines and Aviation

Malaysia’s new A380 airline to launch in 2018

Mark Elliott May 30, 2017

Malaysia Airlines has confirmed that its new pilgrimage charter airline will commence operations in the third quarter of 2018. The new subsidiary will utilise the national carrier's…

Airlines and Aviation

Asian air route updates: new flights from AirAsia X, SriLankan, SilkAir and more…

Mark Elliott May 30, 2017

Thai Lion links Bangkok with Bali Where? Bangkok Don Mueang (Thailand) to Denpasar (Indonesia) When? Daily, effective 1 July 2017 Who? Thai Lion Air Why? Connecting two of Southeast…

OTAs & Tour Operators

Premier Holidays launches Malaysia campaign

Jill Sayles May 24, 2017

Premier Holidays and Tourism Malaysia have unveiled a joint destination marketing campaign to showcase the country’s diverse holiday options.  A selection of tactical offers and…

Tourism Boards

AirAsia agrees to drive tourism in Terengganu

Mark Elliott May 18, 2017

AirAsia has signed a new agreement aimed at bringing more tourists to the Malaysian state of Terengganu. The low-cost carrier penned a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with the Terengganu…

Cruise

Princess Cruises adds two “Grand Asia” voyages

Mark Elliott May 18, 2017

Princess Cruises has added two more 14-day "Grand Asia" voyages to its 2018 itineraries, with its newest ship, Majestic Princess, sailing between Shanghai and Singapore. The first voyage…

Airlines and Aviation

AirAsia opens up Cambodia’s coast

Mark Elliott May 17, 2017

AirAsia is expanding its operations in Cambodia with the launch of flights to Sihanoukville, the country's main beach resort. Commencing on 9 August 2017, the new service will operate…

Airlines and Aviation

Malaysia Airlines hosts fam trip

Jill Sayles May 15, 2017

Malaysia Airlines is hosting travel trade partners on a familiarisation trip to Kuala Lumpur.  The group which includes some of London’s top flight travel agents, are sampling the the…

Airlines and Aviation

Indonesia AirAsia starts flying to India

Mark Elliott May 15, 2017

Indonesia AirAsia Extra, the long-haul low-cost carrier, will launch its first flights to India this week. On Friday 19 May 2017, the airline will start flying from Bali to Mumbai,…

OTAs & Tour Operators

Discover new south east Asia tours with Cosmos

Jill Sayles May 9, 2017

Cosmos says its new holiday adventures in south east Asia are perfect for viewers inspired by the latest Sunday night TV travel series with comedy duo, Dara O’Briain and Ed Byrne, as they…

Cruise

Early start for Singapore cruise season as Royal Caribbean adds itineraries

Mark Elliott May 5, 2017

Royal Caribbean will kick off its Southeast Asian season a month early this year, to fit in a series of additional sailings from Singapore. The company's Mariner of the Seas cruise…

Hotels

Marriott brings green hotel brand to Southeast Asia

Mark Elliott May 4, 2017

Marriott International has introduced yet another hotel brand to Southeast Asia, with the launch of Element Kuala Lumpur. Initially created by Starwood in 2008, Element Hotels is an…

Airlines and Aviation

International flights start from Jakarta T3

Mark Elliott May 3, 2017

International flights have commenced at Terminal 3 of Jakarta's Soekarno-Hatta International Airport. The new terminal's first international services departed on 1 May 2017, with Garuda…

United Arab Emirates

Emirates opens larger lounge in Bangkok

Mark Elliott May 2, 2017

Emirates passengers are now able to relax in a larger lounge at Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport. The expanded Emirates Airport Lounge at Thailand's main international gateway reopened…

Airlines and Aviation

Regional airport demand boosted by falling fares

Jill Sayles Apr 24, 2017

Cheapflights.co.uk has revealed that UK’s regional airports are becoming increasingly popular.  Research and analysis carried out by the company showed that out of 20 million searches and…

Face‑to‑Face

Face to face: Dato’ Haji Azizan Noordin, Deputy Director General of promotion for the Malaysia Tourism Board

Maria Airey Apr 20, 2017

Travel Daily sat down with Dato’ Haji Azizan Noordin, Deputy Director General of promotion for the Malaysia Tourism Board, to talk about the beautiful Malaysian island of Langkawi and his…

Airlines and Aviation

AirAsia goes large

Mark Elliott Apr 18, 2017

AirAsia will introduce an Airbus A330 aircraft on two routes this month, marking the first time the short-haul low-cost carrier has utilised large, twin-aisle large aircraft. From 19…

Airlines and Aviation

SIA expands European network with Air France-KLM

Mark Elliott Apr 13, 2017

Singapore Airlines has signed a deal that will significantly expand its route network in Europe. The national carrier has penned a Memorandum of Understanding with Air France-KLM to…

Hotels

Where to Stay: New hotels in KL, Shenzhen, Sydney and more…

Mark Elliott Apr 12, 2017

Mercure Kuala Lumpur Shaw Parade Location: Pudu, on the fringe of KL's Bukit Bintang retail and entertainment area Grade: Upper-midscale Keys: 213 Facilities: Restaurant, lobby…

Airlines and Aviation

Asian air route updates: new flights from SilkAir, SpiceJet and more…

Mark Elliott Apr 10, 2017

Korean LCC connects to Vietnamese coast Where? Deagu (South Korea) to Danang (Vietnam) When? Five times a week, effective immediately Who? T’way Airlines Why? Low-cost carrier taps the…

Cruise

Princess Cruises unveils new luxury Chinese ship

Mark Elliott Mar 31, 2017

Princess Cruises has taken delivery of the Majestic Princess, its new luxury cruise ship designed specifically for the Chinese market. The ship was officially handed over to Princess…

Airlines and Aviation

Airlines improve connections between India and Asia Pacific

Mark Elliott Mar 20, 2017

It will soon be more convenient to travel between India and the Asia Pacific region, following the formation of a new partnership between two airlines. India's Jet Airways and…

Tourism Boards

Japan sets up first tourism office in Malaysia

Mark Elliott Mar 20, 2017

Japan's national tourism board has set up its first office in Malaysia. The Japan National Tourism Organization's (JNTO) latest overseas office launched in Kuala Lumpur this month,…

Airlines and Aviation

Asian air route updates: Virgin Australia, Thai Lion, Air India and more…

Mark Elliott Mar 20, 2017

Bangladesh gets low-cost Dubai link Where? Dubai (UAE) to Sylhet (Bangladesh) When? Four times a week, effective immediately (rising to six per week in May 2017) Who? Flydubai Why? New…

Airlines and Aviation

Asian air route updates: Malindo’s new Australian route, West Air flies to Japan, and more…

Mark Elliott Mar 15, 2017

New Macau charters for Cambodia Angkor Air Where? Sihanoukville (Cambodia) to Macau (China) When? Twice a week, effective immediately Who? Cambodia Angkor Air Why? New charter service…

Corporate & Business

Asia Pacific remains top for Singaporean corporate travellers

Mark Elliott Mar 14, 2017

Asia Pacific remains the most important region for Singapore's business travellers, according to new data from American Express Global Business Travel (GBT), with regional cities…

Cruise

Princess Cruises commits to Penang port calls

Mark Elliott Mar 13, 2017

Princess Cruises has confirmed that Penang will continue to be included in its Southeast Asian itineraries for at least the next two seasons. For the 2017-18, Diamond Princess cruise ship…

Airlines and Aviation

Top European destinations more expensive for cash-strapped Brits

Aaron Greenwood Mar 10, 2017

Due in part to sterling falling to a six-year low against most major currencies, new data from Hotels.com shows that UK travellers paid more for their hotel rooms overseas in 90% of…

Cruise

Phuket gets double cruise boost

Mark Elliott Mar 9, 2017

Phuket's cruise sector received a major boost on Wednesday (8 March 2017), when two large Royal Caribbean ships called at the Thai resort island. The  Mariner of the Seas, which docked in…

Hotels

Dorsett launches corporate bookers’ programme

Mark Elliott Mar 7, 2017

Dorsett Hospitality International has unveiled a new programme that enables corporate bookers to earn points on their reservations. The new ‘Dorsett Choice’ scheme got underway this…

Cruise

MSC cruises to Japan for the first time

Mark Elliott Mar 6, 2017

MSC Cruises has unveiled details of its first ever cruise to Japan. The new 28-night voyage from Dubai to Yokohama will depart on 31 March 2018, aboard the 3,900-passenger MSC…

United States

Where to Stay: New hotels in Bangkok, New York, KL and more…

Mark Elliott Mar 6, 2017

ibis Bangkok Impact Location: Next to Impact, Thailand’s largest convention centre, in north Bangkok Grade: Economy Keys: 587 Facilities: Restaurant, café-bar, web corner Meeting…

Global

New arrivals lounges planned for London Heathrow

Aaron Greenwood Mar 3, 2017

A new wave of luxury lounges is set to open at London Heathrow Airport thanks to an expansion by Plaza Premium Group. Plans have been announced for two new lounges to be opened by the…

Airlines and Aviation

Uzbekistan Airways to fly Dreamliner to Southeast Asia

Mark Elliott Mar 1, 2017

Two cities in Southeast Asia will soon welcome Uzbekistan Airways' new Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner aircraft. The state-of-the-art long-haul jet will be deployed on the airline's…

Hotels

The latest appointments from AccorHotels, ANA, Dusit and more

Mark Elliott Feb 22, 2017

PAUL STEVENS has become CEO of Accor Plus, AccorHotels’ reward programme. He joined AccorHotels in 1997, holding several GM positions before leaving in 2004. He then returned as a GM and…

Airlines and Aviation

Asian air route updates: AirAsia, Tigerair, Jetstar Pacific and more

Mark Elliott Feb 22, 2017

Chinese travellers get more flights to Malaysia Where? Guangzhou (China) to Johor Bahru (Malaysia) When? Twice a week, effective immediately Who? Sichuan Airlines Why? Chinese carrier…

Airlines and Aviation

Asian air route updates: Cebgo, IndiGo, Air China and Malaysia Airlines

Mark Elliott Feb 15, 2017

Cebgo provides first ever flights to Tablas Where? Manila to Tablas (both the Philippines) When? Four times a week, effective immediately Who? Cebgo Why? Designed to stimulate traffic…

Appointments

The latest appointments from Etihad, AccorHotels, CWT and more

Mark Elliott Feb 15, 2017

GERMANO ROLLERO has become Etihad Airways' new general manager for China, based in Beijing. With extensive experience in the leisure and corporate travel sectors, Rollero has previously…

Malaysia

Kim Jong-un’s brother killed at KLIA

Mark Elliott Feb 14, 2017

The half-bother of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has been killed in a suspected assassination at Kuala Lumpur International Airport. The incident occurred on Monday morning, when…

Airlines and Aviation

AirAsia X to suspend Mauritius flights

Mark Elliott Feb 14, 2017

AirAsia X will suspend its flights to Mauritius next month, less than six months after they commenced. An update on the Routes Online schedules database shows that the low-cost…

Airlines and Aviation

Asian air route updates: China Southern Airlines, Vietjet and more

Mark Elliott Feb 13, 2017

Malindo spreads wings to Saudi Arabia Where? Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) to Jeddah (Saudi Arabia) When? Twice a week, effective 21 February 2017 Who? Malindo Air Why? Islamic pilgrimage…

United States

AirAsia reveals first ever US destination

Mark Elliott Feb 10, 2017

Just weeks after it received permission to launch flights to the US, AirAsia has confirmed the details of its first ever route to the country. On 28 June 2017, the group's long-haul…

UK

Malaysia’s YTL acquires London hotel

Mark Elliott Feb 7, 2017

Malaysia's YTL Hotels has acquired a Marriott-branded property in London. The 74-room Threadneedles Hotel, which is part of Marriott's Autograph Collection, is located in London's…

Airlines and Aviation

Asian air route updates: China Southern Airlines, AirAsia X and more

Mark Elliott Feb 6, 2017

THAI expands connections with neighbour Where? Bangkok (Thailand) to Kota Kinabalu, pictured (Malaysia) When? Daily, effective 26 March 2017 Who? Thai Smile Why? Long-awaited direct…

Face‑to‑Face

Face to face: Adrian Keating, regional manager, UK, Ireland & Europe, Malaysia Airlines

Aaron Greenwood Feb 3, 2017

What are your key priorities in your new role over the next 12 months?  I have three main priorities in 2017. Firstly, I want to raise the profile of Malaysia Airlines within the UK…

Airlines and Aviation

Asian air route updates: Lion Air, Air India Express, and more…

Mark Elliott Feb 3, 2017

Lion Air adds more services to KL Where? Surabaya (Indonesia) to Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) When? Three times a week, effective 16 February 2017 Who? Lion Air Why? Expanding trade between…

OTAs & Tour Operators

Dubai and Bangkok top Southall’s UK outbound bookings

Gemma Greenwood Feb 1, 2017

Research conducted by long haul travel company Southall Travel has revealed that Bangkok, the bustling capital city of Thailand, was the most popular city break destination amongst Brits…

Singapore

Singapore air traffic soars to record levels

Mark Elliott Feb 1, 2017

Singapore's Changi Airport experienced a strong year in 2016, handling record numbers of passengers and flights. According to official data released this week, a total of 58.7 million…

Indonesia

Work starts on Yogyakarta’s new airport

Mark Elliott Jan 31, 2017

A ground-breaking ceremony was held recently to mark the start of work on the new Yogyakarta International Airport. The new hub in Kulon Progo, west of the Indonesian city, will lead…

Hotel Management Company

Hotel room rates decline by 12 percent across UK

Aaron Greenwood Jan 23, 2017

New data from HRS – Global Hotel Solutions - has revealed that average room rates in the UK have dropped across the country by nearly 12% in 2016 compared with 2015.   Despite rates…

Cruise

Dream Cruises reveals first non-Chinese homeport

Mark Elliott Jan 20, 2017

Dream Cruises, the new upscale Asian cruise line, has revealed plans for its first homeport season outside China. In December 2017, the Genting Dream cruise ship will commence a…

Airlines and Aviation

New Nepalese airline flies to Southeast Asia

Mark Elliott Jan 18, 2017

Himalaya Airlines, the new Nepalese airline, will launch its first flights to Southeast Asia next month. Commencing on 10 February 2017, the Kathmandu-based carrier will operate five…

Appointments

The latest appointments, including Sabre’s Frank Trampert and Nikki Beach’s new president

Mark Elliott Jan 18, 2017

FRANK TRAMPERT has been appointed as the new managing director & chief commercial officer for Sabre's hospitality business in Asia Pacific. Trampert has extensive experience in the…

Airlines and Aviation

MH370 to remain a mystery as search ends

Mark Elliott Jan 17, 2017

The search for the missing Malaysia Airlines flight, MH370, has come to an end after almost three years. The Joint Agency Coordination Centre (JACC), which had been leading the search…

Hotels

Travelodge arrives in Asia

Mark Elliott Jan 17, 2017

Travelodge will make its debut in Asia next month with the opening of a new hotel in Hong Kong. A 126-room midscale property on Nathan Road, currently operating as the Hotel Rainbow,…

Airlines and Aviation

Asian air route updates: Vietnam Airlines, AirAsia X and more

Mark Elliott Jan 16, 2017

Second Sydney service for Vietnam Airlines Where? Hanoi (Vietnam) to Sydney (Australia) When? Three times a week, effective 29 March 2017 Who? Vietnam Airlines Why? Continues the…

Cruise

Viking ship to invade Asia in 2018

Mark Elliott Jan 13, 2017

Viking Ocean Cruises has unveiled a series of new Asian itineraries for 2018 and 2019. The new voyages will enable passengers to board in a series of key Asia Pacific destinations,…

Hotels

YTL adds to Marriott’s Malaysian collection

Mark Elliott Jan 13, 2017

Two of YTL Hotels’ properties in Malaysia have become part of Marriott's Autograph Collection. The expansion started in January 2017 when The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur became…

Airlines and Aviation

Emirates to launch daily service to Croatia

Gemma Greenwood Jan 12, 2017

Emirates will introduce a daily flight from Dubai to Zagreb (ZAG), the capital of Croatia from June 1, 2017. The new southeast European destination will be served by an Emirates Boeing…

Events

“Stay at home,” airline urges travellers

Mark Elliott Jan 10, 2017

The Lunar New Year holiday is one of the busiest and most lucrative times of the year for many Asian airlines. But one regional carrier is actively encouraging passengers to stay at…

Hotels

Samadhi Retreats makes debut in Singapore

Mark Elliott Jan 5, 2017

Samadhi Retreats, the luxury hospitality company, has unveiled its inaugural property in Singapore. Located in the Labrador Nature Reserve, the new Villa Samadhi Singapore opened on 5…

Airlines and Aviation

Emirates A380 returns to Tokyo

Mark Elliott Jan 4, 2017

Emirates will resume its Airbus A380 services to Tokyo in March 2017, increasing seat capacity on the route by 38%. Effective 26 March, the airline will start operating the 489-seat,…

Airlines and Aviation

Asian air route updates: Fiji Airways, Hong Kong Airlines, and more

Mark Elliott Jan 3, 2017

Who's flying where? All is revealed with our round-up of the latest air routes... Fiji Airways spreads wings in Australia Where? Suva (Fiji) to Adelaide (Australia) When? Twice a…

Airlines and Aviation

Major airline deal connects Southeast Asia with Canada

Mark Elliott Dec 23, 2016

Two major international airlines have announced plans to join forces on multiple routes connecting destinations across Southeast Asia with Canada. Cathay Pacific and Air Canada have…

Airlines and Aviation

Lucky Air adds flights to Southeast Asia

Mark Elliott Dec 22, 2016

Lucky Air, a subsidiary of China's HNA Group, has started expanding its Southeast Asian operations with the launch of a series of new flights from its home base of Kunming. On 17…

Hotels

The Nam Hai reopens after Four Seasons takeover

Mark Elliott Dec 20, 2016

The Nam Hai, the famous luxury resort in Central Vietnam, has reopened under the management of Four Seasons. The newly-rebranded Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai, Hoi An, started…

Hotels

Four Seasons unveils landmark project in key Southeast Asian city

Mark Elliott Dec 15, 2016

Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts will continue to expand its presence in Southeast Asia in the coming years, with the launch of a new landmark property in Malaysia. Scheduled to open in…

Airlines and Aviation

Brits bag bargain Christmas Day airfares

Aaron Greenwood Dec 14, 2016

Holidaymakers who are prepared to forgo the traditional Christmas Day celebrations at home and enjoy their turkey dinner mid-air, can land sky-high savings according to leading global flight…

Hotels

Eco-friendly Element hits new heights in Southeast Asia

Mark Elliott Dec 13, 2016

Element, the eco-friendly hotel brand created by Starwood, will make its Southeast Asian debut next year. Marriott International, which now operates the brand, has finalised a management…

Hotels

Marriott to extend Asian domination

Mark Elliott Dec 13, 2016

Marriott International, which is now the world's largest hotel group, is set to extend its leadership position in Asia in the coming years. According to a new report from Lodging…

Airlines and Aviation

Oman Air touches down in Guangzhou

Mark Elliott Dec 12, 2016

Oman Air launched its inaugural flight to Guangzhou late last week. The new route marks the airline's arrival in China and the flights will now operate four times a week using a…

Airlines and Aviation

China ends search for MH370

Mark Elliott Dec 8, 2016

The Chinese ship involved in the hunt for the wreckage of flight MH370 has completed its search and is returning to Shanghai. An update provided this week by the Australian Transport…

Hotels

Asian travellers fork out for festive trips

Mark Elliott Dec 7, 2016

Asian travellers spend more on their festive family vacations than those in other parts of the world, a new survey has found. According to HomeAway's holiday survey, almost 33% of…

Airlines and Aviation

New A380 airline to target pilgrimage market

Mark Elliott Dec 5, 2016

Malaysia Airlines has confirmed that it is “finalising plans” for the formation of a new airline. The new operation will utilise the national carrier's six Airbus A380 aircraft to…

Asia

Indian airports drive strong Asian growth

Mark Elliott Dec 1, 2016

Airports in the Asia Pacific region continue to experience strong passenger traffic growth in 2016, driven by a sharp rise in footfall at Indian airports. According to the latest data…

UK

UK hotel room rates crash in Q3

Aaron Greenwood Nov 30, 2016

Average hotel room rates in major UK cities including Cardiff, Edinburgh and Bristol have fallen by up to 20% in Q3 2016 when compared with Q3 2015 prices, according to latest data from…

Airlines and Aviation

AirAsia starts flying Philippines-Taiwan

Mark Elliott Nov 29, 2016

AirAsia has launched its first two routes linking the Philippines with Taiwan. The low-cost carrier's Philippine subsidiary started flying direct from Manila to Taipei on 21 November, and…

Tourism Boards

France targets ASEAN travellers with major roadshow

Mark Elliott Nov 27, 2016

Atout France, the French tourism marketing body, is aiming to attract more visitors from Southeast Asia. The organisation, which was formerly known as Maison de la France, is…

Hotels

Marriott signs more Autographs in Asia

Mark Elliott Nov 21, 2016

Marriott has reveals plans for a major expansion of its Autograph Collection in Asia, with the signing of four new properties in three countries. The soft brand, which is a collection of…

Airlines and Aviation

AirAsia creates new link to Laos

Mark Elliott Nov 21, 2016

AirAsia has expanded its connectivity in Laos with the launch of flights between Kuala Lumpur and Luang Prabang. Marking the first direct link between the two Southeast Asian cities,…

Airlines and Aviation

US Bangla Airlines launches flights to Muscat

Gemma Greenwood Nov 15, 2016

US Bangla Airlines now operates non-stop flights from Dhaka and Chittagong to Muscat. The four weekly flights are operated by two B373- 800 aircraft. According to US Bangla team, the…

UK

Malaysia hones in on niche tourism experiences

Gemma Greenwood Nov 13, 2016

Malaysia is honing in on the niche tourism experiences the Asian destination can offer international travellers. The biggest promotional push is for eco-tourism, with destinations…

Airlines and Aviation

Malaysia Airlines makes major play in China

Mark Elliott Nov 10, 2016

Malaysia Airlines has unveiled plans for a major expansion of its operations in China. The national carrier will launch nine new Chinese routes in 2017, while also adding more…

Airlines and Aviation

Sri Lanka eyes future as global air hub

Mark Elliott Nov 9, 2016

A teardrop in the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka's unique geographic location could allow it to become a global aviation hub in the coming years. Speaking to Travel Daily at the World Travel…

Hotels

Oakwood opens two Asian properties in two days

Mark Elliott Nov 4, 2016

Oakwood has accelerated its Asian expansion strategy with the opening of two new serviced residences in the space of two days. The first to open was the Oakwood Hotel & Residence…

Airlines and Aviation

AirAsia boosts Malaysia-Indo links

Mark Elliott Nov 4, 2016

AirAsia continues to expand its connections between Malaysia and Indonesia with the announcement of two more routes. On 10 January 2017, the low-cost carrier will start operating…

Airlines and Aviation

IATA chief calls on aviation industry and government to manage security challenges

Gemma Greenwood Oct 25, 2016

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) called on industry and governments to work together in an even stronger partnership to provide durable solutions to aviation’s security…

Airlines and Aviation

Malindo to fly direct to Phuket

Mark Elliott Oct 24, 2016

Malindo Air, the Malaysian carrier, will launch direct flights between Kuala Lumpur and Phuket next month. Commencing on 10 November 2016, the airline will offer four weekly flights to…

Airlines and Aviation

Thai AirAsia spreads wings to Kolkata

Mark Elliott Oct 20, 2016

Thai AirAsia is expanding its Indian network with the launch of direct flights from Bangkok to Kolkata. The new route will commence on 16 December 2016, with daily flights connecting…

Hotels

Mövenpick on track to triple Asian portfolio

Mark Elliott Oct 19, 2016

Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts is undertaking a major expansion in Asia, with plans to more than triple its regional portfolio from nine to 30 properties by 2020. Speaking to Travel Daily…

Airlines and Aviation

Etihad goes double daily to Dublin year round

Gemma Greenwood Oct 14, 2016

Etihad Airways will introduce a daily year-round service between Abu Dhabi and Dublin from 1 April, 2017, increasing the frequency on the route to 14 flights a week. The second daily…

Airlines and Aviation

Malaysia Airlines adds island connections

Mark Elliott Oct 13, 2016

Malaysia Airlines has unveiled plans for two new routes linking the islands of Borneo and Penang. Catering for expected festive demand, the national carrier will commence new services…

Tourism

Top Borneo travel deals for 2017

Aaron Greenwood Oct 8, 2016

Tour operator Premier Holidays has unveiled exclusive twin-centre offers to Borneo for 2017, with big savings for couples.   Launched in conjunction with Sabah Tourism and Malaysia…

Airlines and Aviation

AirAsia spreads wings to Africa

Mark Elliott Oct 5, 2016

AirAsia made its debut in Africa this week, when it started flying to the island of Mauritius. The inaugural service, operated by long-haul carrier AirAsia X, touched down at Sir…

Hotels

Malaysia’s YTL Hotels expands UK portfolio

Aaron Greenwood Sep 30, 2016

YTL Hotels has acquired three properties in Edinburgh, Berkshire and London, strengthening the company’s market position in the United Kingdom.  “We have worked hard to build a brand…

Hotels

Beauvais uses big brand experience to create simplified hospitality vision

Mark Elliott Sep 29, 2016

Having spent 25 years with Marriott International, Kevin Beauvais understands the pressure of working in a big corporate environment. But now, operating his own boutique hotel management…

Airlines and Aviation

The latest industry appointments

Mark Elliott Sep 28, 2016

JONATHAN KAO has been appointed as BCD Travel's new managing director for Greater China, overseeing the company's operations in mainland China and Hong Kong. Kao joins BCD Travel from…

Hotels

Tallest hotel rises on Miri’s waterfront

Mark Elliott Sep 28, 2016

The Malaysian city of Miri now has a new landmark, following the opening of a waterfront hotel set in the city's tallest building. Overlooking the South China Sea, the new Pullman Miri…

Hotels

Shun Tak brings citizenM hotel brand to Asia

Mark Elliott Sep 23, 2016

Artyzen Hospitality Group, which is owned by Hong Kong conglomerate Shun Tak Holdings, has unveiled plans to launch the first two citizenM hotels in Asia. The contemporary brand has…

Tourism

Bangkok reclaims “most-visited city” title

Mark Elliott Sep 22, 2016

Bangkok has reclaimed its place as the world's most-visited city, ahead of London. According to the 2016 MasterCard Global Destination Cities Index, which is based on projected full-year…

United Arab Emirates

Dubai voted most popular long-haul city break by holidaying Brits

Gemma Greenwood Sep 19, 2016

Dubai is the most popular long-haul city break destination among British holidaymakers, according to UK travel firm Southall Travel. The destination welcomed a record 1.2 million British…

Airlines and Aviation

Malaysia Airlines launches Christmas getaway sale

Aaron Greenwood Sep 15, 2016

With weather forecasters predicting temperatures of around 4-9c during the festive season in the UK, Malaysia Airlines has launched a getaway sale, which means that travellers can switch…

Hotels

Sunway to rename KL hotels

Mark Elliott Sep 14, 2016

Malaysia's Sunway Hotels & Resorts has revealed that two of its newest properties in Kuala Lumpur will soon get new identities. Effective 1 October 2016, the Sunway Pyramid Hotel…

Airlines and Aviation

Jetstar targets Asian business travellers

Mark Elliott Sep 9, 2016

Jetstar is taking steps to enhance its appeal among Asian business travellers. The low-cost carrier has launched a new "FlexiBiz" product that includes a series of additional…

Airlines and Aviation

Malindo adds second destination in Vietnam

Mark Elliott Sep 6, 2016

Malindo Air has expanded its network in Vietnam with the launch of direct flights to Hanoi. The Malaysian airline will now operate daily services from Kuala Lumpur to Vietnam's…

Hotels

Frasers debuts in Malaysia’s federal capital

Mark Elliott Sep 2, 2016

Frasers Hospitality, the serviced apartment operator, has continued to expand its portfolio in Malaysia with the signing of its first property in Putrajaya, the country's federal capital.…

Airlines and Aviation

Dreamliner opens up Uzbekistan as Europe-Asia bridge

Mark Elliott Sep 1, 2016

Uzbekistan could soon become a new transit option for passengers travelling between Europe and Asia. The country's national carrier, Uzbekistan Airways, took delivery of its first…

Hotels

Asia drives expansion of Hyatt brands

Mark Elliott Aug 25, 2016

Hyatt's two select-service brands, Hyatt Place and Hyatt House, expanded their global presence significantly in the second quarter of 2016, driven by new openings in Asia Pacific. Of…

Appointments

The latest industry appointments

Mark Elliott Aug 24, 2016

DOUG ANDERSON has been named CEO of American Express Global Business Travel (GBT). He arrives with more than 30 years of global management experience, the last nine of which were spent…

Hotels

Le Meriden completes Malaysian treble

Mark Elliott Aug 23, 2016

Starwood has continued the expansion of its Le Meridien brand in Southeast Asia with the opening of a new property in Malaysia. The new-build Le Meridien Putrajaya becomes the upscale…

Hotels

London no longer Europe’s most expensive hotel market

Gemma Greenwood Aug 17, 2016

New data from HRS has revealed that major cities across the UK, including London, have seen a decline in average hotel room rates when looking at Q2 2016 compared with Q2 2015. Having…

Airlines and Aviation

Malaysia Airlines passengers told to print own baggage tags

Mark Elliott Aug 17, 2016

Malaysia Airlines is demanding that all economy class passengers now print their own baggage tags. The new rule, which comes into effect on 18 August 2016 on all flights departing…

Hotels

Oakwood to grow tall in Asia Pacific

Mark Elliott Aug 17, 2016

Oakwood, the serviced apartment operator, has unveiled plans for a major expansion in the Asia Pacific region. The company, which is currently present in nine countries across the…

Face‑to‑Face

Face-to-Face: Sean Treacy

Mark Elliott Aug 15, 2016

This week, Travel Daily Asia chats to Sean Treacy, Royal Caribbean Cruises' managing director for Singapore and Southeast Asia, about his company's regional expansion plans... Q)…

Airlines and Aviation

Cathay transfers flights and aircraft to Dragonair

Mark Elliott Aug 12, 2016

Hong Kong's Dragonair will launch its first flights to Kuala Lumpur next year, replacing Cathay Pacific's services. The new flights will be introduced progressively between March and May…

Cruise

Royal Caribbean reveals details of longest Singapore season

Mark Elliott Aug 11, 2016

Royal Caribbean has confirmed that winter 2016-17 will see its longest-ever season in Singapore, as three cruise ships base their operations in the Lion City. Three of the largest…

Airlines and Aviation

Grounded Rayani Air could fly again

Mark Elliott Aug 9, 2016

Rayani Air, which made headlines earlier this year by becoming Malaysia's first shariah-compliant airline, could return to the skies, even after having its operating permit revoked in June,…

Airlines and Aviation

Qatar Airways teams up with Malaysia’s Malindo Air

Gemma Greenwood Aug 1, 2016

Qatar Airways has teamed up with Malaysian-based airline Malindo Air to offer passengers seamless travel and greater connectivity when travelling between Southeast Asia and more than 100…

Airlines and Aviation

Qatar Airways expands Malaysian network with Malindo

Mark Elliott Aug 1, 2016

Qatar Airways has significantly expanded its network in Malaysia following an agreement with Kuala Lumpur-based Malindo Air. Under the new interline deal, which has already come into…

Airlines and Aviation

Air Astana unveils stopover packages

Mark Elliott Aug 1, 2016

Travellers flying between Europe and East Asia now have the chance to stopover in Kazakhstan. Air Astana, the Central Asian country's national carrier, has unveiled new stopover…

Airlines and Aviation

MH370 pilot “plotted Indian Ocean course”

Mark Elliott Jul 28, 2016

The pilot of Malaysia Airlines flight MH370 plotted a course into the southern Indian Ocean prior to the disappearance of the aircraft, investigators have discovered. The Joint Agency…

Airlines and Aviation

MH370 plunged sharply into sea – investigator

Mark Elliott Jul 28, 2016

An Australian crash investigator has told the aviation website AirlineRatings.com that flight MH370 plunged sharply and quickly into the ocean, suggesting that no-one was in control of…

Airlines and Aviation

Malaysia Airlines revamps fleet with “game-changing” deal

Mark Elliott Jul 27, 2016

Malaysia Airlines has moved to expand and renew its short-haul fleet, with the signing of a major deal for up to 50 aircraft. The Kuala Lumpur-based national carrier has placed a firm…

Airlines and Aviation

MH370 search to be suspended

Mark Elliott Jul 22, 2016

The hunt for flight MH370 will be suspended upon completion of the existing search area, it has been confirmed. A joint statement was released on Friday (22 July 2016) following a…

Airlines and Aviation

ANA to launch new daily flight to KL

Mark Elliott Jun 29, 2016

ANA will add a second daily flight between Tokyo and Kuala Lumpur later this year. Commencing on 30 October 2016, the Japanese airline will start flying direct from Tokyo's Haneda…

Airlines and Aviation

Turkish Airlines adds another Southeast Asian capital

Mark Elliott Jun 27, 2016

Turkish Airlines has continued to expand its operations in Southeast Asia with the launch of flights to Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam. The national carrier's inaugural Hanoi…

Airlines and Aviation

AirAsia shifts terminals at Yangon

Mark Elliott Jun 27, 2016

The AirAsia Group will be moving its operations at Yangon International Airport from Terminal 2 to the new Terminal 1 on 28 June 2016. Passengers travelling on all flights operated by…

Airlines and Aviation

No name change for KLIA2 – minister

Mark Elliott Jun 23, 2016

Malaysia will not change the name of its low-cost terminal, KLIA2, despite pressure from AirAsia. Tony Fernandes, the group CEO of AirAsia, said earlier this month that he planned to…

Airlines and Aviation

AirAsia X touches down in Iran

Mark Elliott Jun 22, 2016

AirAsia X touched down in Iran this week, marking its return to the country following a near-four-year hiatus. The inaugural flight took off from Kuala Lumpur on Tuesday evening (21…

Tourism

Salam Standard recognises Muslim travel award winners

Aaron Greenwood Jun 20, 2016

Salam Standard, the innovative online hotel reference tool dedicated to Muslim travellers, has revealed the winners of its inaugural Muslim travel awards.  The newly-launched Salam…

Airlines and Aviation

Emirates promises shorter flight times to Melbourne from the UK

Aaron Greenwood Jun 20, 2016

Passengers travelling to Melbourne, Australia from the UK will now have another direct flight option with Emirates announcing that flights EK408 and EK409 will begin operating as nonstop…

Airlines and Aviation

New partnership aims to reduce turbulence injuries

Mark Elliott Jun 17, 2016

Two companies have joined forces in an effort to reduce the number of turbulence injuries suffered by air passengers. The Weather Company, which is owned by IBM, and in-flight…

Airlines and Aviation

Emirates de-links KL from Melbourne

Mark Elliott Jun 16, 2016

Emirates will cease operating its Dubai-Kuala Lumpur-Melbourne service later this year, as it opts to cut out the Malaysian capital and fly direct to Australia. The re-routing, which…

Airlines and Aviation

Malaysia’s shariah airline grounded for good

Mark Elliott Jun 13, 2016

Rayani Air, which hit the headlines earlier this year by becoming Malaysia's first shariah-compliant airline, has had its operating permit revoked. The airline launched in January…

Airlines and Aviation

AirAsia embarks on unilateral airport rebranding

Mark Elliott Jun 13, 2016

AirAsia has decided to launch its own campaign to rebrand KLIA2, without the backing of the airport's operator. The low-cost carrier, which is by far the largest airline based at KLIA2,…

Cruise

Royal Caribbean to base newest ship in Singapore

Mark Elliott Jun 10, 2016

Royal Caribbean has revealed that it will homeport its newest cruise ship, Ovation of the Seas, in Singapore in 2017. The announcement was made earlier this week during the ship’s…

Airlines and Aviation

AirAsia X boosts Gold Coast route

Mark Elliott Jun 6, 2016

AirAsia X will increase the number of flights it operates between Kuala Lumpur and the Gold Coast next month. Effective 1 July 2016, the low-cost carrier will start operating 11…

Hotels

Holiday Inn Express makes Malaysian debut

Mark Elliott Jun 2, 2016

InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) has opened its first ever Holiday Inn Express hotel in Malaysia. The launch of the new Holiday Inn Express Kuala Lumpur City Centre marks the…

Airlines and Aviation

Expanding Vietjet adds another international route

Mark Elliott Jun 1, 2016

Vietjet, the fast-expanding Vietnamese low-cost carrier, has continued to grow its international network with the launch of a new direct flight between Ho Chi Minh City and Kuala Lumpur.…

Hotel

Check-In: The Andaman, a Luxury Collection Resort, Langkawi

Mark Elliott May 25, 2016

The busy eclecticism of Kuala Lumpur is perfectly complemented by the calm and tranquility of Malaysia’s Langkawi Island - a tropical paradise with crystal clear water set against the…

Airlines and Aviation

AirAsia opens first travel shop in the Maldives

Mark Elliott May 23, 2016

AirAsia has strengthened its presence in the Maldives with the launch of a new travel shop. The new AirAsia Travel & Service Centre (ATSC) officially opened in the Maldivian…

MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferencing, Exhibitions)

WTM concludes “productive” first Asian event

Mark Elliott May 22, 2016

The inaugural WTM Connect Asia event drew to a close in Malaysia on Friday. As the first ever World Travel Market-branded event in Asia, this three-day trade show gathered buyers and…

Airlines and Aviation

AirAsia scraps check-in counters at KL

Mark Elliott May 17, 2016

AirAsia will scrap all counter check-in services for passengers departing from Kuala Lumpur this week. The low-cost carrier has confirmed that, from 18 May, it will only offer…

Airlines and Aviation

AirAsia X returns to Iran with double launch

Mark Elliott May 15, 2016

AirAsia X has confirmed that it will resume flights to Iran this summer, for the first time in almost four years. Kuala Lumpur's AirAsia X and Bangkok's Thai AirAsia X will both start…

Airlines and Aviation

Malaysia Airlines revamps economy class meals

Mark Elliott May 10, 2016

Malaysia Airlines is making an effort to improve the quality of its economy class meals. As part of a major overhaul of its passenger services, the national carrier said it is…

Hotels

Oakwood makes market entry into Malaysia

Mark Elliott May 9, 2016

Oakwood Asia Pacific has signed an agreement that will lead to the launch of its first property in Malaysia. Scheduled to open in the second half of 2016, the new Oakwood Hotel &…

Airlines and Aviation

AirAsia traffic jumps 17%

Mark Elliott May 9, 2016

AirAsia recorded a sharp rise in passenger traffic in the first quarter of 2016. The group's short-haul airlines in Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, India and the Philippines carried a…

Cruise

Viking sails to Asia as part of first world cruise

Mark Elliott May 4, 2016

Viking Ocean Cruises will embark on its first ever world cruise next year, visiting several ports in Asia Pacific. The cruise line's fourth ship, Viking Sun, will spend its maiden…

Airlines and Aviation

Malaysia Airlines to revamp Golden Lounges

Mark Elliott May 3, 2016

Malaysia Airlines has revealed plans for a major makeover of its Golden Lounges. The revamp will start this year with the overhaul of the airline's regional and domestic Lounges at…

Hotels

St Regis completes Malaysian double

Mark Elliott May 3, 2016

Starwood has opened its first St Regis hotel in Kuala Lumpur, just weeks after the brand made its Malaysian debut on the island of Langkawi. The new St Regis Kuala Lumpur forms part of…

Airlines and Aviation

Sichuan Airlines to fly international from Kunming

Mark Elliott Apr 29, 2016

Sichuan Airlines is planning a major expansion of its international network from Kunming, the capital of southwest China’s Yunnan province.   The carrier currently has a fleet of 13…

Airlines and Aviation

AirAsia X adds more flights to eight destinations

Mark Elliott Apr 27, 2016

AirAsia X has unveiled plans for a major expansion of its operations, with additional flights to eight destinations across the Asia Pacific region. The Kuala Lumpur-based low-cost…

Airlines and Aviation

Plaza Premium takes over Cathay Pacific lounges

Mark Elliott Apr 25, 2016

Plaza Premium Group has been appointed to manage Cathay Pacific's lounges at airports across Asia. From next month, the company will take over the running of The Wing, The Pier and…

Singapore

Singapore Changi top “self-connecting” Asian airport

Mark Elliott Apr 22, 2016

Singapore's Changi Airport is the most popular in Asia Pacific for passengers choosing to "self-connect", a new study has revealed. According to data from Skyscanner, 17% of air seats…

Hotels

Wyndham targets key Southeast Asian markets

Mark Elliott Apr 21, 2016

Wyndham Hotel Group is planning a progressive expansion of its brands across a series of key Southeast Asian markets, including Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand and Vietnam. Speaking to…

UK

Hotel Jen expansion plans shared with UK trade

Aaron Greenwood Apr 18, 2016

Ambitious plans to expand the footprint of one of Asia’s most popular lifestyle hotel brands, Hotel Jen, have been revealed to the UK travel trade.  More than 60 travel professionals…

Airlines and Aviation

AirAsia links Johor with China

Mark Elliott Apr 17, 2016

AirAsia has taken a significant step forward in its efforts to connect Johor, Malaysia's southernmost state, by announcing a new direct flight from mainland China. Commencing on 29…

Airlines and Aviation

Vietjet adds more international routes from HCMC

Mark Elliott Apr 12, 2016

Vietjet has confirmed plans to launch two new international routes from Ho Chi Minh City. Commencing on 1 June 2016, the new HCMC-Kuala Lumpur route will operate daily, with flights…

Airlines and Aviation

Malaysia’s new shariah airline grounded

Mark Elliott Apr 11, 2016

Rayani Air, the start-up Malaysian airline that conforms to Islamic shariah standards, has been grounded by aviation authorities. Malaysia's Bernama news agency reports that the country's…

Face‑to‑Face

Face-to-Face: Richard Quest

Mark Elliott Apr 11, 2016

Richard Quest, the CNN anchor, recently embarked on an eight-day round-the-world journey using only low-cost carriers. Travel Daily caught up with Richard following his trip... Q:…

Cruise

Royal Caribbean welcomes third Quantum-class ship

Mark Elliott Apr 11, 2016

Royal Caribbean has taken delivery of its 24th ship, Ovation of the Seas. The new vessel was officially handed over to the cruise line in a ceremony at the Meyer Werft shipyard in…

Airlines and Aviation

Cathay Pacific launches baggage drop stations at HKIA

Mark Elliott Apr 6, 2016

Cathay Pacific has introduced new self-service baggage drop facilities at Hong Kong International Airport. Available for passengers flying with Cathay and its sister carrier…

Hotels

St Regis makes Malaysian debut in Langkawi

Mark Elliott Apr 6, 2016

Starwood has opened the St Regis Langkawi, marking the luxury brand's first ever property in Malaysia. The new resort, which is a joint venture between Rajawali Group and the Malaysian…

Airlines and Aviation

Lufthansa and SWISS expand Asian networks with SIA

Mark Elliott Apr 5, 2016

Singapore Airlines and the Lufthansa Group have announced a series of new Asian codeshare flights. The two companies formed a commercial joint venture in November 2015 which has…

Airlines and Aviation

Emirates adds 15 Malaysian destinations

Mark Elliott Apr 5, 2016

Emirates has significantly expanded its network in Malaysia following the expansion of its partnership with Malaysia Airlines. The two carriers embarked on a new codeshare partnership…

Airlines and Aviation

Thai AirAsia goes international from Hat Yai

Mark Elliott Apr 1, 2016

Thai AirAsia has launched its first ever international flight from southern Thailand's Hat Yai Airport. The new service will operate daily between Hat Yai and Johor Bahru, in southern…

Hotels

Malaysia’s Sunway invests US$218m in hotels

Mark Elliott Apr 1, 2016

Malaysia's Sunway Hotels & Resorts has unveiled plans to invest more than US$218 million in a three-year redevelopment and expansion plan, aimed at enhancing its collection of hotels…

Airlines and Aviation

Oman Air launches innovative first class dining

Mark Elliott Mar 29, 2016

Oman Air recently unveiled Service by Design, a brand-new innovative inflight dining option for its first class customers. With the slogan ‘Choose your own Chef’, Service by Design…

Airlines and Aviation

Malaysia Airlines hopeful of solving MH370 mystery

Mark Elliott Mar 28, 2016

Malaysian Airline has said it welcomes the news that debris found on the coast of Africa is almost certain to belong to its missing flight, MH370. In a statement, the national carrier…

Airlines and Aviation

AirAsia adds two new routes to Shantou

Mark Elliott Mar 27, 2016

AirAsia has expanded its presence in China with the launch of one new route to Shantou, in the populous Guangdong province, and the announcement of plans for a second. The low-cost…

Airlines and Aviation

Malaysia Airlines launches new A330 business class seat

Mark Elliott Mar 24, 2016

Malaysia Airlines has unveiled the first Airbus A330-300 aircraft fitted with its new business class seats. The aircraft, which entered service on the Kuala Lumpur-Sydney route on 23…

Airlines and Aviation

MH370 engine part found in South Africa

Mark Elliott Mar 23, 2016

A piece of the Rolls-Royce engine from flight MH370 has washed up on a beach in South Africa. The South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) has confirmed that the debris, which…

Airlines and Aviation

AirAsia X returns to New Zealand

Mark Elliott Mar 23, 2016

AirAsia X touched down in New Zealand today (23 March 2016) for the first time in almost four years. The low-cost carrier's new daily flights from Kuala Lumpur to Auckland via the Gold…

Airlines and Aviation

AirAsia launches Penang-Yangon flights

Mark Elliott Mar 22, 2016

AirAsia has expanded its network from Penang with the launch of a new direct service to Yangon. Flights commenced on 22 March and will now operate three times a week, every Tuesday,…

Face‑to‑Face

Face-to-Face: Gabriel Escarrer

Mark Elliott Mar 22, 2016

This week, Travel Daily chats with Gabriel Escarrer, vice chairman & CEO of Meliá Hotels International, about the company's expansion plans in Asia Pacific... Q)    Meliá has been…

Airlines and Aviation

RJ inaugurates new China route

Mark Elliott Mar 21, 2016

Royal Jordanian has announced operations of a regular route to the Chinese city of Guangzhou from today 21 March 2016. The route will be serviced with three weekly flights. The…

Airlines and Aviation

Royal Jordanian touches down in Guangzhou

Mark Elliott Mar 21, 2016

Royal Jordanian started operating flights to the Chinese city of Guangzhou on Monday 21 March 2016. The new service marks an extension of the airline's existing Amman-Bangkok route,…

Hotels

Shangri-La signs KL’s first Hotel Jen

Mark Elliott Mar 18, 2016

Shangri-La has signed an agreement to launch its first Hotel Jen in Kuala Lumpur. Scheduled to open in 2019, Hotel Jen Kuala Lumpur will be located in the centre of the Malaysian…

Corporate & Business

Asia drives Singaporean business travel

Mark Elliott Mar 17, 2016

The Asia Pacific region remains the focus for Singaporean business travellers, according to a new report from American Express Global Business Travel (GBT). Asian cities comprised the…

Airlines and Aviation

Richard Quest travels round the world on LCCs

Mark Elliott Mar 10, 2016

Richard Quest, CNN’s aviation correspondent and presenter of ‘Quest Means Business’, is embarking on an eight-day round-the-world trip using only low-cost carriers. The journey will…

Airlines and Aviation

Malaysia Airlines ditches Boeing 777s in fleet overhaul

Mark Elliott Mar 7, 2016

Malaysia Airlines has retired its entire fleet of Boeing 777 aircraft as part of its ongoing restructuring plan. Providing an update on its turnaround efforts, the national carrier…

Hotels

吉隆坡铂尔曼酒店推出新家庭套房

Mark Elliott Mar 7, 2016

吉隆坡市中心铂尔曼酒店（Pullman Kuala Lumpur City Centre）完成了家庭房的改装工程，新装入了一个双侧床、休息区和儿童活动区域。 这个家庭套房面积107m²，设有起居室、厨房、双层床的儿童卧室、玩具和游戏机。客房可以容纳至多5人的大家庭，客人们都会受到特别的欢迎礼物。…

Hotels

Pullman KLCC unveils new family facilities

Mark Elliott Mar 4, 2016

The Pullman Kuala Lumpur City Centre has completed a revamp of its residence facilities, including a new two-bedroom family suite, a new lounge and children’s area. The new family…

Appointments

The latest industry appointments

Mark Elliott Mar 3, 2016

TORSTEN EDENS has been appointed as Diethelm Travel's new group operating director. Edens moves to the company's Bangkok head office from his previous role as managing director for…

Airlines and Aviation

Possible MH370 debris washes up in Mozambique

Mark Elliott Mar 3, 2016

A piece of white metal, approximately one metre in length, has been found on a beach in Mozambique, leading to speculation that it could be debris from the missing Malaysia Airlines…

Airlines and Aviation

Malaysia Airlines embarks on new era with Emirates

Mark Elliott Feb 29, 2016

Malaysia Airlines has turned over a new page in its history with the launch of a major codeshare partnership with Emirates. Through an extensive codeshare agreement, the Kuala…

Hotels

Sunway opens third hotel in KL complex

Mark Elliott Feb 19, 2016

Malaysia's Sunway Hotels & Resorts has opened a new hotel in its Sunway Resort City complex near Kuala Lumpur. The new Sunway Pyramid Hotel West welcomed its first guests on 19…

Airlines and Aviation

AirAsia to connect KL with Shantou

Mark Elliott Feb 17, 2016

AirAsia has announced plans to launch its first flights to the city of Shantou, in southern China's Guangdong province. Commencing on 25 March 2016, the low-cost carrier will offer…

Airlines and Aviation

AirAsia carries 50 million passengers

Mark Elliott Feb 16, 2016

AirAsia has carried 50 million passengers in a single year for the first time in its history. The group's portfolio of five short-haul carriers, based in Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia,…

Hotels

So Sofitel to debut in KL

Mark Elliott Feb 16, 2016

AccorHotels has unveils plans to launch its luxury So Sofitel brand in Kuala Lumpur. Developed by Oxley Holdings, the new 207-room So Sofitel Hotel and 590-key So Sofitel Residence will…

Airlines and Aviation

Eurowings opens new market for Lufthansa, and for Asia

Mark Elliott Feb 15, 2016

Eurowings' new low-cost flights to Thailand have opened up an entirely new market for the Lufthansa Group, focusing on price-sensitive leisure travellers, according to Dirk Grossmann,…

Airlines and Aviation

Heathrow marks busiest January on record

Aaron Greenwood Feb 11, 2016

Heathrow welcomed a record 5.5 million passengers in January, marking its best ever start to the year (+1% on January 2015). Larger, fuller, quieter aircraft continued to be a driver for…

Appointments

The latest industry appointments

Mark Elliott Feb 10, 2016

ROBERT RIJNDERS has become Onyx Hospitality Group's new senior vice president and area general manager for Pattaya. Rijnders started working with Onyx in the early 1980s, when the…

Airlines and Aviation

Malindo Air starts flying to Hong Kong

Mark Elliott Feb 9, 2016

Malindo Air has continued to expand its international network with the launch of flights to Hong Kong. The Kuala Lumpur-based airline will now operate daily direct flights on the new…

Airlines and Aviation

AirAsia adds two routes from Thailand’s Hat Yai

Mark Elliott Feb 9, 2016

AirAsia has announced plans to expand its operations from Hat Yai, the largest city in southern Thailand. On 1 April 2016, the airline will add two new routes from Hat Yai, connecting…

UK

UK hotel room rates continue to rise despite economic concerns

Aaron Greenwood Feb 4, 2016

Hotel solutions provider HRS has compared average hotel room rates worldwide over the last four years (2011 – 2015) and revealed that despite economic uncertainties during this…

Airlines and Aviation

AirAsia X returns to Delhi

Mark Elliott Feb 4, 2016

AirAsia X has relaunched flights to India, with the start of a new direct route between Kuala Lumpur and Delhi. The Malaysian long-haul low-cost carrier suspended its services to…

Hotels

Carlson Rezidor plans to double Asia Pacific portfolio

Mark Elliott Jan 28, 2016

Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group is planning to open another 100 hotels across Asia Pacific in the next five years, doubling its current regional portfolio. Addressing reporters in Bangkok…

Tourism

Bangkok named as Asia’s most popular destination

Mark Elliott Jan 27, 2016

Bangkok is by far the most popular tourist destination in the Asia Pacific, according to a new report. In its inaugural Asia Pacific Destinations Index, which was released on…

Singapore

Record year for Singapore air traffic

Mark Elliott Jan 27, 2016

Singapore's Changi Airport overcame a difficult year to set new records for passenger traffic and aircraft movements in 2015. According to the full-year data from the Changi Airport Group…

Hotels

Melia plans secluded island resort in Lombok

Mark Elliott Jan 25, 2016

Meliá Hotels International has continued its rapid expansion in Indonesia with the signing of a new upscale resort on Gili Tangkong, a pristine island off the coast of Lombok. Scheduled…

Airlines and Aviation

Sabre, Malaysia Airlines celebrate agents

Mark Elliott Jan 25, 2016

Sabre and Malaysia Airlines recently co-hosted an event to celebrate their long-standing relationship and to recognise their top Malaysian travel agency partners. Held at Zouk in…

Tourism

World welcomed 1.2bn international travellers in 2015

Mark Elliott Jan 19, 2016

Global visitor arrivals increased 4.4% in 2015 to reach a total of 1.18 billion, according to the latest data from the UNWTO. The result means that the world's destinations welcomed an…

Airlines and Aviation

Malaysia Airlines adds Laksa Bars at KL lounges

Mark Elliott Jan 18, 2016

Malaysia Airlines has started showcasing the country's national cuisine at its airport lounges. New Laksa Bars have opened at the airline's three Golden Lounges at Kuala Lumpur…

Hotels

铂尔曼接管普吉丽笙世嘉酒店

Mark Elliott Jan 15, 2016

雅高酒店（AccorHotels）继续扩张着位于东南亚的业务，在泰国普吉岛再推出一家铂尔曼酒店。 今年开始，普吉岛原来的攀瓦海滩丽笙世嘉度假酒店（Radisson Blu Plaza Resort Phuket）将正式更名为攀瓦海滩铂尔曼度假村（Pullman Phuket Panwa Beach Resort）。…

Hotels

Pullman takes over Phuket resort

Mark Elliott Jan 14, 2016

AccorHotels has continued to expand its Pullman brand in Southeast Asia with the rebranding of an upscale resort in Phuket. The Radisson Blu Plaza Resort Phuket has been taken over by…

Tourism

HalalTrip launches Muslim-friendly packages

Mark Elliott Jan 14, 2016

HalalTrip recently launched comprehensive tour packages to over 65 global destinations. The company created a bespoke portfolio of Muslim-friendly packages that includes excursions…

Airlines and Aviation

Emirates to add second A380 flight to Perth

Mark Elliott Jan 14, 2016

Emirates will commence a second daily Airbus A380 service to Perth on 1 August. The 519-seat, three-class A380 will replace the Boeing 777-300ER aircraft that currently operates flights…

Airlines and Aviation

Malaysia Airlines’ Dubai connections to start in February

Mark Elliott Jan 14, 2016

Malaysia Airlines' new partnership with Emirates, which was first announced last month, will get underway on 15 February 2016, the airlines have confirmed. From this date, Malaysia…

Airlines and Aviation

AirAsia X returns to New Zealand

Mark Elliott Jan 13, 2016

AirAsia X has announced plans to return to New Zealand in March, almost four years after it pulled out of the country. The new service will commence on 22 March 2016, operating from…

Airlines and Aviation

Malaysia Airlines lifts baggage restrictions

Mark Elliott Jan 6, 2016

Malaysia Airlines has lifted a temporary restriction that banned passengers from checking in baggage on certain flights to Europe. The airline imposed the measure earlier this week,…

Hotels

Two brand new Sofitels to open in Southeast Asia

Mark Elliott Jan 6, 2016

AccorHotels has signed a major deal in Southeast Asia that will lead to the opening of two brand new Sofitels in Singapore and Kuala Lumpur. The agreement with GuocoLand will see the…

Airlines and Aviation

Royal Jordanian launches flights to Indonesia

Mark Elliott Dec 22, 2015

Royal Jordanian will make its debut in Indonesia on 23 December, with the launch of a new service between Amman and Jakarta. The inaugural flight will take off from Amman's Queen Alia…

Hotels

Mövenpick steps up Southeast Asian growth strategy

Mark Elliott Dec 22, 2015

Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts has continued its rapid recent expansion in Southeast Asia with the signing of new properties in Malaysia and Vietnam. Following the recent announcement of…

Airlines and Aviation

Shariah-compliant airline launches in Malaysia

Mark Elliott Dec 22, 2015

A new Shariah-compliant airline has started operating in Malaysia. The Bernama news agency reports that Rayani Air, which is based in the state of Kelantan, launched its maiden flight…

Cruise

Spike in Singaporean bookings for festive cruises

Mark Elliott Dec 22, 2015

More Singaporeans will celebrate the festive season at sea this year, according to Royal Caribbean. The cruise line revealed today that local bookings on its Christmas and New Year…

Airlines and Aviation

German LCC starts flying to Thailand

Mark Elliott Dec 20, 2015

Eurowings, Germany's low-cost leisure carrier, has launched its first flights to Thailand. The first new direct route from Cologne-Bonn Airport to Phuket departed on Friday, while the…

Malaysia

Malaysian airport traffic falls in November

Mark Elliott Dec 11, 2015

Passenger traffic at Malaysian airports declined in November 2015. According to the latest data from the state-run operator, Malaysia Airport Holdings Bhd (MAHB), the country's…

Airlines and Aviation

BA to launch Dreamliner on Dubai route

Mark Elliott Dec 10, 2015

British Airways recently announced its intent to fly the new Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, complete with a new First cabin on the Dubai route from October 2016. This announcement follows…

Hotels

智选假日酒店2016年来到马来西亚

Mark Elliott Dec 4, 2015

明年，继新签订了两座位于吉隆坡的协议之后，洲际酒店集团将在马来西亚新开首座智选假日酒店。 智选假日酒店在东南亚快速发展着，马来西亚首座智选假日酒店将于2016年正式开业。吉隆坡中心智选假日酒店（Holiday Inn Express Kuala Lumpur City Centre）位于Menara…

Hotels

Holiday Inn Express to debut in Malaysia in 2016

Mark Elliott Dec 3, 2015

IHG will open its first ever Holiday Inn Express hotel in Malaysia next year, following the signing of a new agreement for two properties in Kuala Lumpur. Continuing the budget…

Airlines and Aviation

Malaysia Airlines routes traffic through Dubai with Emirates deal

Mark Elliott Dec 3, 2015

Malaysia Airlines has formed a new partnership with Emirates that will see it drive more global traffic through Dubai International Airport. The comprehensive codeshare agreement,…

Airlines and Aviation

Finnair adds more Singapore connections with Jetstar

Mark Elliott Dec 3, 2015

Finnair will now offer its passengers a new range of connecting flight options at Singapore's Changi Airport, through a new partnership with Jetstar Asia. Effective 15 December 2015,…

Airlines and Aviation

Malindo Air flies to Sri Lanka and Vietnam

Mark Elliott Dec 2, 2015

Malindo Air has opened bookings for its first ever routes to Sri Lanka and Vietnam. The Kuala Lumpur-based carrier has confirmed that services to Sri Lanka's capital Colombo will get…

Airlines and Aviation

AirAsia launches four routes from Pattaya

Mark Elliott Nov 27, 2015

AirAsia has commenced flights on four new routes from U-Tapao Airport, the gateway to Pattaya and Thailand's eastern seaboard. On 27 November, the low-cost carrier launched new…

Airlines and Aviation

BA adds some Hollywood glamour to Dreamliner launch

Aaron Greenwood Nov 26, 2015

To mark the launch of British Airways’ Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner on its daily London-Abu Dhabi-Muscat service on 6 November, the airline recruited Hollywood star and Australian Margot Robbie…

Cruise

Princess Cruises kicks off Singapore season

Mark Elliott Nov 26, 2015

Princess Cruises will embark on its second season of sailings from Singapore this week. Following its inaugural season in 2014, the 2,678-passenger Sapphire Princess cruise ship will set…

Airlines and Aviation

AirAsia X to resume Delhi flights

Mark Elliott Nov 23, 2015

AirAsia X will relaunch flights to Delhi in February 2016, four years after it suspended the service. The Malaysian low-cost carrier has confirmed that it will start operating four…

Airlines and Aviation

MH370 could be found “within weeks”

Mark Elliott Nov 23, 2015

The missing Malaysia Airlines flight MH370 would be found in the next two months, a former pilot has claimed. Captain Simon Hardy has been working with Australian authorities…

Airlines and Aviation

AirAsia connects Langkawi with Guangzhou

Mark Elliott Nov 22, 2015

The Malaysian resort island of Langkawi will be connected directly to the Chinese metropolis of Guangzhou next year. Commencing on 24 January 2016, AirAsia will launch four weekly…

Airlines and Aviation

BA’s new Dreamliner arrival celebrated with A-listers

Mark Elliott Nov 8, 2015

British Airways recently celebrated launch of its new Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner on its daily London-Abu Dhabi-Muscat service. The launch witnessed A-listers such as Australian actress…

Appointments

The latest industry appointments

Mark Elliott Nov 4, 2015

GRAHAM HILLS has been appointed chief product officer at Wego. Hills previously served as the general manager of Wego Indonesia and will now relocated to the travel search company's…

Tourism

Malaysia to lure more Brits with family-focused offering

Gemma Greenwood Nov 3, 2015

Malaysia is ramping up its efforts to get a bigger share of the UK travel market by highlighting its family holiday offering.   Brand new theme parks, high quality accommodation and…

Cruise

Revamped Explorer of the Seas sails into Singapore

Mark Elliott Nov 3, 2015

Royal Caribbean’s Explorer of the Seas called at Singapore for the first time today. The recently refurbished ship carried 3,200 passengers to the city, following an 11-night 'Middle…

Airlines and Aviation

Gary Rhodes to create lounge meals for Malaysia Airlines

Mark Elliott Nov 3, 2015

British celebrity chef Gary Rhodes will create dishes for passengers in Malaysia Airlines' Platinum Lounge at Kuala Lumpur International Airport this month. The airline, along with…

Airlines and Aviation

BA flies new Dreamliner to Delhi

Mark Elliott Oct 27, 2015

British Airways' new Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner touched down in Delhi for the first time this week. The new 216-seat aircraft is the newest model in BA's fleet and comes equipped with…

Hotels

Plaza Premium enters hotel space as part of global expansion

Mark Elliott Oct 26, 2015

Plaza Premium Group, which operates independent lounges at airports across the world, has unveiled its global expansion plans, including the launch of a new hotel concept. At a press…

OTAs & Tour Operators

Thomas Cook India embarks on three-city “mela” to promote Maharashtra tours

Mark Elliott Oct 25, 2015

Thomas Cook India has embarked on a three-city promotional tour to celebrate the launch of a new series of tours offered exclusively to residents of the state of Maharashtra. The…

Appointments

The latest industry appointments

Mark Elliott Oct 21, 2015

BUHDY BOK has been promoted to the role of Asia president for the Costa Group. Bok joined Costa in May 2011 as vice president China and was later promoted to president of Costa Asia and…

Tourism

dnata travel puts the spotlight on Muslim travellers

Mark Elliott Oct 19, 2015

dnata travel recently announced the development of new tours and services designed to care for needs of Muslim travellers. The packages are aptly titled ‘holidays tailored for you’.…

Airlines and Aviation

Sun-Air signs codeshare deal with Qatar Airways

Aaron Greenwood Oct 12, 2015

Qatar Airways has signed a code-share agreement with Danish carrier SUN-AIR, a franchise of British Airways.  From October 8, SUN-AIR and Qatar Airways will introduce code-share…

Airlines and Aviation

SIA to launch new Airbus A350 on Amsterdam route

Mark Elliott Oct 12, 2015

Singapore Airlines has announced that its first Airbus A350 aircraft will enter long-haul service on the Singapore-Amsterdam route next year. The airline will welcome the first of 63…

Hotels

Agoda reveals best times for hotel deals

Mark Elliott Oct 12, 2015

Agoda.com, the online booking site, has revealed the best times of year for travellers to obtain the cheapest hotel rates. In its 'Travel Smart Study', the company analysed the hotel…

Airlines and Aviation

Malindo Air to launch Australian flights

Mark Elliott Oct 12, 2015

Malaysia's Malindo Air has unveiled plans to launch its first flights to Australia. The Kuala Lumpur-based carrier will commence services to Perth on 19 November 2015, initially…

Appointments

The latest industry appointments

Mark Elliott Oct 7, 2015

MIKE BONNER has been announced as the new vice president of marketing for One&Only Resorts. Based in Dubai, he will be responsible for the company's global marketing efforts. Bonner…

Hotels

Ramada expands in Malaysia with first hotel in Johor Bahru

Mark Elliott Oct 6, 2015

Wyndham Hotel Group has revealed plans to expand its Ramada brand in Malaysia, with the signing of a franchise agreement for a new property in Johor Bahru. Scheduled to open in 2017,…

Airlines and Aviation

AirAsia X launches KL-Sapporo

Mark Elliott Oct 2, 2015

AirAsia X has launched its inaugural flight from Kuala Lumpur to Sapporo. The new route commenced on Friday 2 October 2015 and will now operate four times a week. Flights depart…

Tourism

Dubai leads in 2015 MasterCard-CrescentRating

Mark Elliott Sep 30, 2015

In a recent report, Dubai has been ranked number one destination in the world for Muslims to travel to for shopping purposes. This statement was according to a new report released by…

Airlines and Aviation

AirAsia expands international links from Pattaya

Mark Elliott Sep 28, 2015

AirAsia will continue its international expansion from Pattaya's U-Tapao Airport in November 2015, with the launch of new direct services to Macau and Singapore. Following the launch of…

Airlines and Aviation

Malindo to connect KL with Amritsar

Mark Elliott Sep 22, 2015

Malindo Air has announced plans to launch flights to the Indian city of Amritsar. Commencing on 25 October, the Malaysian airline will operate three weekly flights direct from Kuala…

Airlines and Aviation

New flight links Bali with East Timor

Mark Elliott Sep 21, 2015

A new air route has opened connecting Bali with East Timor. The Jakarta Post reports that the new Denpasar-Dili service will be operated by Citilink, Garuda Indonesia's low-cost…

UK

Northern cities top destinations for holidaying Brits this summer

Aaron Greenwood Sep 15, 2015

Laterooms.com has released data showing how its British customers holidayed at home and abroad this summer. London, Manchester, Birmingham and Edinburgh remained at the top of a 10-strong…

Airlines and Aviation

AirAsia to link KL with Changsha

Mark Elliott Sep 9, 2015

AirAsia has confirmed plans to launch a new service connecting Kuala Lumpur with Changsha, the capital of China's Hunan province. Commencing on 2 October 2015, the new route will…

Airlines and Aviation

China Southern adds more Malaysian connections

Mark Elliott Sep 8, 2015

China Southern Airlines will launch new services to Malaysia in the coming months. Commencing on 25 October, the carrier will add a new daily flight connecting Kuala Lumpur with…

Airlines and Aviation

ANA launches Dreamliner flights to KL

Mark Elliott Sep 2, 2015

Japan’s All Nippon Airways (ANA) has launched flights to Kuala Lumpur, using its Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft. The inaugural flight touched down in the Malaysian capital on 1…

Hotels

Starwood begins keyless room roll-out in KL

Mark Elliott Sep 1, 2015

Starwood Hotels & Resorts has started the roll-out of its new SPG Keyless programme at Aloft hotels in Southeast Asia. Effective immediately, members of the Starwood Preferred…

Face‑to‑Face

Face-to-Face: Sean Treacy

Mark Elliott Aug 31, 2015

This week, Travel Daily Asia goes Face-to-Face with Sean Treacy, the recenty-appointed managing director for Singapore & Southeast Asia with Royal Caribbean Cruises... Q)…

Airlines and Aviation

AirAsia connects Pattaya with China

Mark Elliott Aug 31, 2015

Thai AirAsia has unveiled plans to launch two new routes connecting Pattaya with mainland China, as it makes the resort town its fifth operating base in Thailand. The low-cost carrier…

Cruise

Legend of the Seas returns to Singapore

Mark Elliott Aug 26, 2015

Royal Caribbean’s Legend of the Seas cruise liner has returned to Southeast Asia for the autumn 2015 season, where it will be homeported in Singapore. The ship, which previously…

Airlines and Aviation

Air China to fly direct to Mumbai

Mark Elliott Aug 20, 2015

Air China has confirmed plans to launch flights connecting Beijing and Mumbai. The new direct service will commence on 25 October 2015, operating four times a week. Flights will…

Airlines and Aviation

AirAsia to connect KL with Goa

Mark Elliott Aug 13, 2015

AirAsia will launch its first international flights to Goa this month. Commencing on 27 August, the low-cost carrier will operate three weekly flights between Kuala Lumpur…

Hotels

Jumeirah to make Malaysian debut with KLCC property

Mark Elliott Aug 12, 2015

Jumeirah Group has signed new agreements that will lead to the company's debut in Malaysia. The Dubai-based hotel group has penned management contracts with Oxley Malaysia for a new…

Guest Column

AirAsia Offers Celebratory Fares on 3 Million Seats

Mark Elliott Aug 11, 2015

To celebrate the 300 million guests milestone, AirAsia Group announced celebratory fares on 3 million seats from as low as RM 3* one way. Guests can fly to many exciting destinations…

Airlines and Aviation

Reunion debris confirmed as MH370

Mark Elliott Aug 6, 2015

The piece of aircraft wing that washed up on the island of Reunion last week is from flight MH370, it has been confirmed. Malaysia's Prime Minister, Najib Razak, addressed his citizens in…

Appointments

The latest industry appointments

Mark Elliott Aug 5, 2015

PHILIPPE CASSIS has been named as Belmond's new executive vice president & chief operating officer. He arrives at the company from Sun Resorts, where he served as CEO. Prior to this,…

Airlines and Aviation

Emirates expands Asian connectivity with Bangkok Airways

Mark Elliott Aug 5, 2015

Emirates has significantly expanded its network in Southeast Asia with the signing of a codeshare partnership with Bangkok Airways. Under the agreement, Emirates' international passengers…

Hotels

Pullman adds third hotel in Bangkok

Mark Elliott Aug 5, 2015

AccorHotels has launched its third Pullman hotel in Bangkok, following the rebranding of the Grand Millennium Sukhumvit. The central property, which now becomes known as the Pullman…

Cruise

Norwegian embarks on first ever Indian cruises

Mark Elliott Aug 4, 2015

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) will launch its first ever cruises to India, Sri Lanka and the Gulf region next year. The move marks part of the company's return to the Far East in the…

Hotels

KL’s Prince Hotel rebrands as a Pullman

Mark Elliott Aug 4, 2015

The former Prince Hotel & Residence Kuala Lumpur has been taken over by AccorHotels and rebranded as a Pullman. The new Pullman Kuala Lumpur City Centre Hotel & Residences was…

Cruise

Norwegian cruises back to the Far East

Mark Elliott Aug 4, 2015

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) will return to the Far East for the 2016-17 winter season, for the first time in more than a decade. On 31 October 2016, the recently renovated Norwegian Star…

Airlines and Aviation

AirAsia demands US$107m from Malaysia Airports

Mark Elliott Aug 2, 2015

AirAsia is demanding MYR409 million (US$107m) in compensation from Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB) for losses and damages it has incurred by operating from Kuala Lumpur…

Kazakhstan

Beijing completes historic Olympic double

Mark Elliott Aug 1, 2015

Beijing has won the right to host the 2022 Winter Olympic Games. The Chinese capital defeated Almaty, the largest city in Kazakhstan, by 44 votes to 40 in Kuala Lumpur on Friday. This…

Airlines and Aviation

Reunion “wing flap” could belong to MH370

Mark Elliott Jul 30, 2015

A large piece of debris has washed up on the Indian Ocean island of Reunion, leading to hopes that it could be part of the missing Malaysia Airlines flight MH370. The white object,…

Airlines and Aviation

AirAsia X connects KL with Sapporo

Mark Elliott Jul 28, 2015

Malaysia's AirAsia X will expand its operations in Japan later this year with the launch of direct flights between Kuala Lumpur and Sapporo. Commencing on 1 October 2015, the airline…

Airlines and Aviation

AirAsia demands action to repair “sinking” KLIA2

Mark Elliott Jul 28, 2015

AirAsia has urged Malaysian authorities to speed up work to repair Kuala Lumpur International Airport 2 (KLIA2), which it claims is sinking. Malaysia's Bernama news agency reported…

Face‑to‑Face

Face-to-Face: Mischa Mannix-Opie

Mark Elliott Jul 27, 2015

Travel Daily Asia chats with Mischa Mannix-Opie, Air New Zealand's Country Manager for Singapore... Q)           You launched flights to Singapore earlier this year; what has the…

Airlines and Aviation

Xiamen Airlines links Changsha with Southeast Asia

Mark Elliott Jul 23, 2015

Xiamen Airlines will launch two new routes to Southeast Asia next month from Changsha, the capital of China's Hunan province. On 10 August, the Chinese carrier will launch four weekly…

Hotels

Almaty focuses on accommodation in Olympic bid

Mark Elliott Jul 23, 2015

Almaty is hoping that its recent increase in hotel room supply will convince the International Olympic Committee that it is ready to host the 2022 Winter Olympics. Kazakhstan's…

Airlines and Aviation

AirAsia flies to the Maldives

Mark Elliott Jul 21, 2015

AirAsia has announced plans to launch direct flights from Kuala Lumpur to the Maldives. Commencing on 22 October 2015, the low-cost carrier will serve the route three times a week…

Hotels

Hyatt House to arrive in Southeast Asia

Mark Elliott Jul 21, 2015

Hyatt has signed an agreement that will lead to the launch of the Hyatt House brand in Southeast Asia. The hotel group has penned a deal with Malaysia's UEM Sunrise Berhad to develop…

Airlines and Aviation

Flybe confirms management restructure

Gemma Greenwood Jul 20, 2015

Flybe has announced that its chief commercial officer Paul Simmons will leave the company in mid-January 2016 to take up a role with Malaysian Airlines based in Kuala Lumpur. Following…

Airlines and Aviation

ANA to launch new Sydney route with Dreamliner

Mark Elliott Jul 16, 2015