Hotels

Festive feasts: Holiday season at Riva Arun Bangkok and Kiridara Luang Prabang

Kristin Mariano Dec 20, 2018

The holiday season is in full swing and more people are making plans and travelling for Christmas and New Year. As a matter of fact, travelling during the holidays increases by 23% compared…

Train

China to build Mekong bridge in Luang Prabang

Mark Elliott Nov 11, 2016

A Chinese company is planning to build a bridge across the Mekong River in Luang Prabang, the UNESCO-listed city in northern Laos, as part of the new Trans-Asian Railway network. The…

Airlines and Aviation

AirAsia to link Bangkok with Luang Prabang

Mark Elliott Feb 10, 2016

AirAsia has announced plans to launch a new direct flight connecting Bangkok with Luang Prabang. The new service will commence on 24 March 2016, operating daily from the Thai…

Tourism

Luang Prabang spreads out to accommodate more tourists

Mark Elliott Jan 11, 2016

The city of Luang Prabang in northern Laos will be expanded to cater to an increase number of visitors, it has been revealed. The Vientiane Times reports that authorities in the…

Hotels

Rosewood to debut in Laos with luxury Luang Prabang resort

Mark Elliott Nov 26, 2015

Rosewood Hotels & Resorts will make its debut in Laos in 2017, with the opening of a new luxury tented resort near Luang Prabang. The new Rosewood Luang Prabang will be located 10…

Airlines and Aviation

THAI launches direct flight to Luang Prabang

Mark Elliott Oct 21, 2014

Thai Airways International (THAI) will launch direct flights between Bangkok and Luang Prabang this week. The inaugural flight to the lazy Laotian city is due for take-off on Sunday…

Global

Half marathon to launch in Luang Prabang

Mark Elliott May 7, 2013 13

Laos is set to host a unique half marathon at the world heritage site of Luang Prabang in October this year. The area, which is famous for its procession of monks who walk through the…

Hotels

New hotel to launch in Luang Prabang

Sep 14, 2011

The Xiengthong Palace hotel will soft open in the northern Laos city of Luang Prabang next month. Operated by Jetwing, the property will become the company's first managed property in…

Hotels

New luxury resort to open in Luang Prabang

Mark Elliott May 4, 2011

A new boutique is set to open in the northern Laos city of Luang Prabang next month. The 24-room Kiridara Luang Prabang will open its doors on 10 June 2011, nestled into a hillside…

Global

Alila Luang Prabang to open in August

Mark Elliott Mar 8, 2010

Luxury hotel operator Alila will open a new property in former royal capital of Laos, Luang Prabang, in August this year. Alila Luang Prabang will feature just 23 suites in a…

Global

Exotissimo adds Luang Prabang charitable tour

Mark Elliott Mar 3, 2010

03 Mar 10 (TravMedia.com): This new 5-day Laos Tour includes eco-friendly excursions by electric bikes and a trip to rural villages to donate books to underprivileged youth.Exotissimo…

Global

Luang Prabang to get new airport

Mark Elliott Aug 6, 2009

The Laos government is to spend US$80 million on building a new airport in Luang Prabang, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed town in the north of the country. According to a Bernama…

Global

anoi-Luang Prabang discuss tourism link

Mark Elliott Mar 23, 2009

Qatar Airways' latest expansion plans will see a 30% increase in frequency of flights on the Doha-Muscat route from the end of the month. The airline will increase its number of weekly…

Global

Hanoi-Luang Prabang discuss tourism link

Mark Elliott Mar 23, 2009

A seminar in Hanoi has discussed creating tourism links between the Vietnamese capital and Laos' UNESCO World Heritage-listed town of Luang Prabang. VietnamNet Bridge reported that the…

Features

Alila facelift for Luang Prabang resort

Mark Elliott Jan 22, 2009

Alila Hotels & Resorts has completed the renovation work on its 3 Nagas by Alila resort in the UNESCO World Heritage town of Luang Prabang, Laos. The work included the remodelling…

Hospitality

Babbling brooks and peaceful ponds: Pullman’s Laosian MICE experience

Alastair Newport Jan 16, 2019

Last week we ran the news of Pullman Luang Prabang's new range of sustainable experiences for the eventing crowd. But, with news that the property has also just unveiled a new ballroom for…

Hospitality

MICE meets sustainability and responsible tourism in Laos

Alastair Newport Jan 8, 2019

Pullman Luang Prabang has embraced a raft of sustainable practices — both internally and through a collection of carefully selected local partners.

Hospitality

AccorHotels launches Pullman brand in Laos

Alastair Newport Jul 17, 2018

Pullman, the upscale subsidiary of AccorHotels, has announced its first location in Laos with the opening of Pullman Luang Prabang.

By the Way

‘World’s Greatest Places’, by TIME

Kanchan Nath Mar 22, 2023

To compile this list of the top spots to visit this year, TIME solicited nominations from its international network of correspondents and contributors, with an eye toward those offering new…

Airlines and Aviation

Lao Airlines and Lao Skyway have achieved the ‘SafeFlight’ standards

Kanchan Nath Oct 11, 2022

New flight routes are opening this October that will provide a broader range of options for travellers hoping to visit Laos, as LaoSafe certification of the country's two airlines, Lao…

LaoSafe helps to reopen Laos

Kristin Mariano Jul 15, 2022

LaoSafe has certified more than 100 tourism businesses and helped to make Laos currently one of the most open Southeast Asian countries for international tourists. The success of the…

Accor welcomes the world back to Laos

Kristin Mariano May 27, 2022

Laos, the country of misty mountains, charming French colonial architecture, hill tribe settlements, magical Buddhist monasteries, and authentic hospitality, is now open to the world.

14 countries added in Laos Green Zone Plan

Kristin Mariano Jan 5, 2022

Fourteen more countries are added to the list of nationalities allowed to enter Laos under the Travel Green Zone Plan.

Laos set to welcome foreign travellers from 1 January

Megha Paul Dec 23, 2021

Laos has announced plans to partially reopen its borders to foreign visitors on January 1, despite the rising fears that the Omicron variant

Reopening updates

Laos plans to reopen country to fully vaccinated tourists in 2022

Kristin Mariano Dec 13, 2021

The Lao Government has announced their plan to re-open the country to fully vaccinated tourists in January of 2022 under the "Lao Travel Green Zone" program.

Hospitality

Centara steps into 2021 with three new resorts in Laos and Thailand

Megha Paul Jan 19, 2021

With three new hotels signed in Khao Yai, Thailand and Vang Vieng, Laos, Centara Hotels has expanded this year with 304 keys being added to its group portfolio

Guest Column

Laos’ Rocky Road to Recovery

Bernie Rosenbloom Jan 11, 2021

Like many, I wake up and read the travel trade papers. When and how destinations will reopen dominate the headlines. And there is no lack of experts willing to share their wisdom.

What is a “Covid-19 Safe Stamp” and why do we need it?

Silvia O'Donovan Jun 29, 2020

Recently both G-Adventures and Intrepid Travel have implemented the necessary measures to ensure absolute safety in all of their trips in order to inspire confidence to future travellers and…

OTAs & Tour Operators

Going wild: Indotrek’s epic journey links Thailand and Laos

Megha Paul Mar 18, 2020

With a mosaic of ethnic cultures and a topography that lends itself to adrenalised activities, the highlands of Thailand and Laos have long been prime quarry for intrepid adventurers.…

Hotels

Centara Hotels & Resorts reveals global expansion plans

Tian Tolentino Oct 31, 2019

Thailand's Centara Hotels & Resorts has announced a strategic five-year development plan that will see its global portfolio grow to over 130 hotels in more than 50 countries by the end…

Global

Alpha story: Cassia Bintan GM opens up about life on the Indonesian paradise

Alastair Newport May 21, 2019

With a career stretching back across Asia, Alpha Eldiansyah, general manager of three Indonesia properties -- Banyan Tree Bintan, Angsana Bintan and Cassia Bintan -- has picked up a thing or…

Airlines and Aviation

Aviation round up: Down to the crunch

Alastair Newport Jan 15, 2019

This week’s round up of the key events and announcements from the world includes historic profits, capacity crunches and…Jazz?

Hotels

The best (and worst) new luxury hotels of 2018

Tian Tolentino Dec 26, 2018

Luxury Travel Intelligence (LTI), a provider of digital reports for travel, has revealed its list of the best and worst new luxury hotels in 2018.

HR & Careers

Industry insights with Willem Niemeijer of Khiri Travel

MILI SEMLANI Semlani Nov 30, 2018

Celebrating 25 years in business, Khiri Travel retrospects on its journey in travel in Asia. Khiri Travel founder, Willem Niemeijer insights that inform his travel industry decision making,…

Airlines and Aviation

Scoot to take over SilkAir’s routes ahead its merger into Singapore Airlines

Kristin Mariano Nov 22, 2018

SilkAir will transfer a number of its routes to Scoot ahead of its merger into Singapore Airlines, while Scoot will be transferring some of its services to existing destinations served by…

Hotels

“China remains a priority” as Rosewood adds four to Asian network

Alastair Newport Oct 17, 2018

Hong Kong based luxury hospitality group Rosewood Hotel Group is stepping up its Asia expansion with the opening of four new properties in China, Southeast Asia and India, they announced…

Charity / Sustainability / CSR

Survey by Planet Happiness: Tourism – a boon or a curse?

MILI SEMLANI Semlani Sep 18, 2018

A new global survey of local residents’ happiness in World Heritage sites called Planet Happiness has been launched to address the issue of over tourism.

OTAs & Tour Operators

ASIA DMC prevails at the World Travel Awards 2018

Tian Tolentino Sep 5, 2018

Destination management company, ASIA DMC, has announced its recent success at the 25th World Travel Awards Gala held in Hong Kong on 3 September 2018.

Hotels

AVANI cuts to the chase, moves front desks closer to extinction

Tian Tolentino May 22, 2018

Catering to modern travellers who want bookings and check-ins fast and done online, AVANI Hotels & Resorts has introduced online pre-arrival check-ins at its properties worldwide.

Hospitality

Howzat! AVANI’s latest opening makes a hat-trick in Oceania

Alastair Newport Apr 3, 2018

After the completion of AVANI Metropolis Auckland Residences in New Zealand October 2017, AVANI Hotels & Resorts have returned to Oceania to open their second site in Australia, and…

Features

AVANI levels up with AVANI+ brand reconfiguration

Michael Mackey Mar 14, 2018

Minor Hotels' new brand extension, AVANI+, aims to take things slightly higher by using, “a little bit extra” to enhance the existing brand without creating a new one. We spoke to…

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…

Tourism Boards

ASEAN Tourism Forum 2018: Food trips, sustainability and scaling up in the next 50 years

Simon Willmore Feb 1, 2018

The recent 37th ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) saw the region’s tourism ministers express optimism on growing the sector in 2018 onwards.

Airlines and Aviation

Bangkok Airways pile on privilege for the chosen few

Alastair Newport Nov 13, 2017 15

Bangkok Airways Public Company Limited announced the launch of its frequent flyer programme partnership with codeshare partner, Qatar Airways, starting 1 November 2017. 

Cruise

APT tips Mekong river cruises as a top seller for 2018

Jill Sayles Nov 1, 2017 14

Travel industry partners will reap the benefits of selling Mekong river cruise holidays for 2018 and 2019 according to tour and cruise operator APT.  APT’s head of sales and…

Cruise

Pandaw unveil new ship for Laos flotilla

Alastair Newport Sep 14, 2017

Pandaw has announce the addition of a third ship to join their Laos Flotilla on the Mekong River in September 2019. This will be the 17th vessel in the Pandaw Fleet that currently ply…

Cruise

Customised Cruising arrives in Laos

Michael Mackey Sep 8, 2017

A new development in river cruising in Laos with the launch of an inspired new fleet of five custom-designed river cruisers that will work the upper reaches of the mighty Mekong in northern…

Airlines and Aviation

Asian air route updates from Thai Smile, Lao Airlines, Jetstar and more

Mark Elliott Jul 31, 2017

Thai Smile flies to Lucknow Where? Bangkok (Thailand) to Lucknow (India) When? Four times a week, effective immediately Who? Thai Smile Why? Thai Airways' regional subsidiary taps…

Appointments

The latest appointments from Sabre, Minor and more

Mark Elliott Jun 21, 2017

PIETER VAN DER HOEVEN has become Minor Hotels' new area general manager for Vietnam. Based at the Anantara Hoi An, he will now oversee the operations and sales of all Minor hotel brands…

Attractions & Tours

Lao backpacker haven upgrades facilities

Mark Elliott Jun 15, 2017

Vang Vieng, the popular backpacking destination in Laos, wants to improve its reputation by modernising its tourism facilities. The Vientiane Times reported a senior local tourism…

Hotels

Bagan ripe for international investment

Mark Elliott Jun 12, 2017

International tourism in Bagan, Myanmar, is experiencing strong growth, but the ancient destination is still under-served by major hotel groups, a new report has found. In its latest…

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

Major Thai carriers join forces

Mark Elliott Apr 10, 2017

Two of Thailand's biggest airlines have teamed up on a series of services. National carrier Thai Airways and regional airline Bangkok Airways will jointly sell 10 domestic and five…

Airlines and Aviation

New flights take travellers to mysterious Plain of Jars

Mark Elliott Mar 3, 2017

The mysterious Plain of Jars in Laos is now more accessible than ever, after an airline launched two new routes to the plateau on which the ancient site is located. The Lao news…

United States

Where to Stay: New hotels in Laos, Australia, the US and more

Mark Elliott Feb 7, 2017

Banyan Tree's The Grand Luang Prabang Location: On the banks of the Mekong River in the UNESCO-listed town of Luang Prabang, northern Laos Grade: Luxury Keys: 75 Facilities:…

Airlines and Aviation

Asian air route updates: China Eastern Airlines, Cebu Pacific and more

Mark Elliott Jan 25, 2017

China Eastern launches new link to Laos Where? Kunming (China) to Luang Prabang, pictured (Laos) When? Four times a week, effective 2 March 2017 Who? China Eastern Airlines Why?…

Airlines and Aviation

Asian air route updates: Hainan Airlines, SilkAir, and more

Mark Elliott Jan 4, 2017

Who's flying where? All is revealed with our round-up of the latest air routes... Hainan Airlines adds double Laos link Where? Haikou (China) to Vientiane and Luang Prabang (Laos)…

Hotels

Belmond reopens luxury Angkor hotel

Mark Elliott Nov 22, 2016

Belmond, the hotel group formerly known as Orient-Express, has reopened its luxury hotel in Siem Reap, the gateway to Cambodia's Angkor Wat. Following a complete refurbishment, La…

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,…

Hotels

Rosewood brings luxury brand to Hong Kong harbourfront

Mark Elliott Nov 21, 2016

Rosewood Hotel Group has unveiled plans to launch a new landmark luxury property in its home market of Hong Kong. The new Rosewood Hong Kong is scheduled to open in 2018 in a prime…

Appointments

The latest industry appointments

Mark Elliott Nov 16, 2016

PETER SEAH will succeed Stephen Lee Ching Yen as chairman of Singapore Airlines. Currently deputy chairman, Seah will take over the top role on 1 January 2017. A banker for more than 30…

Hotels

SilverNeedle unveils riverside hotel in Bangkok

Mark Elliott Oct 11, 2016

SilverNeedle Hospitality has added a new riverside hotel in Bangkok to its boutique “SilverNeedle Collection”. Set on the banks of the Chao Praya River in the historic Rattankosin area of…

OTAs & Tour Operators

Trafalgar adds three new Asian destinations

Mark Elliott Aug 16, 2016

Trafalgar, The Travel Corporation's guided tour operator, has added three new Asian countries to its collection: India, Sri Lanka and Laos. There are nine new itineraries in…

Airlines and Aviation

Lao Airlines, SilkAir boost ASEAN cooperation

Mark Elliott Jul 28, 2016

Singapore's SilkAir and Lao Airlines, the national carrier of Laos, have signed a new codeshare agreement for flights between the two countries. Under the terms of the deal, which was…

Attractions & Tours

Laos to submit two new UNESCO bids

Mark Elliott Jun 21, 2016

Laos is planning to apply for UNESCO World Heritage status for two of its landmarks, according to local media reports. Officials from the Lao government were reported saying that they…

Airlines and Aviation

Thai AirAsia doubles up in Laos

Mark Elliott Apr 27, 2016

Following the recent launch of its first ever flights to Laos, Thai AirAsia has unveiled plans to add a second route to the landlocked Southeast Asian country. The Bangkok-based…

Airlines and Aviation

Singapore Airlines completes ASEAN sweep with new flight

Mark Elliott Apr 26, 2016

SilkAir will launch flights to two destinations in Laos this year, expanding the Singapore Airlines group network to all 10 ASEAN countries. From 31 October 2016, SilkAir, SIA's regional…

Tourism

Asian travel company offers “good weather guarantee” – in the rainy season

Mark Elliott Apr 18, 2016

A Southeast Asian travel site is now promising its customers good weather and offering refunds if it rains. From 1 April to 31 October 2016, travellers booking a minimum seven-night…

Hotels

Sofitel makes debut in Laos

Mark Elliott Apr 4, 2016

AccorHotels has launched its luxury Sofitel brand in Laos, with the opening of a new property in Luang Prabang. The new Sofitel Luang Prabang is set in a mansion built in the 1900s for…

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…

Airlines and Aviation

Jet, Bangkok Airways seal FFP tie-up

Mark Elliott Jan 17, 2016

Jet Airways and Bangkok Airways have entered into a new partnership that will enable frequent flyers to earn and redeem miles for both airlines' flights. Under the new agreement,…

Airlines and Aviation

HK Express plans to enter low-cost big league

Mark Elliott Dec 18, 2015

HK Express is planning a significant expansion of its fleet in the coming years, as it bids to compete with Asia's major low-cost carriers. The Hong Kong-based budget airline is…

Face‑to‑Face

Face-to-Face: Tran Trong Kien

Mark Elliott Nov 23, 2015

Today, Travel Daily Asia chats with Tran Trong Kien, CEO of TMG Hospitality, the Vietnamese company that operates Victoria Hotels & Resorts and various other travel-related businesses...…

Attractions & Tours

Laos plans UNESCO bid for Plain of Jars

Mark Elliott Nov 23, 2015

Laos is preparing to submit an application to UNESCO for the Plain of Jars to be inscribed on the World Heritage list. The Vientiane Times reports that country's Ministry of…

Laos

Laos needs four new international airports – minister

Mark Elliott Oct 6, 2015

Laos will need to develop four new international airports to cater for rising traffic at its most popular destinations, a government minister has said. Asia News Network (ANN) reports…

Travel Agents

Insider Journeys rewards agents with fam trip to Asia

Gemma Greenwood Aug 4, 2015

Specialist tour operator Insider Journeys recently hosted a group of eight UK agents on a sales fam to Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos.  The trip was designed to give agents first-hand…

Airlines and Aviation

THAI to end US flights in latest round of cost-cutting

Mark Elliott Jul 27, 2015

Thai Airways International (THAI) will suspend its last remaining US route as part of its latest round of cuts. The national carrier will cease operating its Bangkok-Seoul-Los Angeles…

OTAs & Tour Operators

Remote Lands plans second private jet tour

Mark Elliott Apr 20, 2015

Tour company Remote Lands has unveiled plans for a second private jet tour in 2016. The company teamed up with resort operator Aman for the first 18-day ultra-luxury itinerary in…

River Cruising

Mekong River Cruises adds new Laos journeys

Mark Elliott Apr 8, 2015

Mekong River Cruises has unveiled plans to offer a series of new voyages in Laos. Between July and December 2015, the company will operate seven cruises down the Mekong River from…

Airlines and Aviation

Qatar Airways extends network in Southeast Asia

Mark Elliott Feb 25, 2015

Qatar Airways is now able to offer more destinations in Southeast Asia following the expansion of its codeshare partnership with Bangkok Airways. The Doha-based carrier will now be…

Tourism Boards

Laos continues to break tourism records

Mark Elliott Feb 12, 2015

Laos continues to experience record-breaking tourism growth, with another sharp rise in visitor numbers in 2014. According to the latest official data from the Lao Ministry of…

Cambodia

Khiri Travel launches “epic” 40-day Indochina tour

Mark Elliott Jan 13, 2015

Khiri Travel has launched its largest tour itinerary to date - a 40-day journey that covers five countries in Indochina. The new 'Epic Multi-Country Program' covers Myanmar, Thailand,…

Airlines and Aviation

WTM14: THAI still hopeful of A380 London service

Mark Elliott Nov 6, 2014

THAI Airways has remained confident it will add an Airbus A380 onto flights between London Heathrow and Bangkok despite previously having delays. Krittaphon Chantalitanon, VP aviation…

Hotels

Thai luxury resort offers Angkor flights

Mark Elliott Oct 27, 2014

Soneva Kiri, the luxury resort located on the Thai island of Koh Kood, is now offering its guests the chance to fly to Angkor Wat. From 16 November 2014, the property will operate…

Appointments

The latest industry appointments

Mark Elliott Jul 2, 2014

JENNIFER CRONIN has been named as the new vice president of sales & marketing for Marco Polo Hotels. Ms Cronin is currently finishing her PHD, and previously held the position as…

Airlines and Aviation

JAL expands Indochina links with Bangkok Airways

Mark Elliott Apr 24, 2014

Japan Airlines has added more destinations in Thailand and Indochina following the expansion of its codeshare agreement with Bangkok Airways. The two carriers currently codeshare on…

Face‑to‑Face

Face-to-Face: Jean-Christophe Moreaux

Mark Elliott Apr 14, 2014

Travel Daily chats with Belmond's regional director of sales & marketing for Asia, Jean-Christophe Moreaux, about the impact of the recent rebranding from Orient-Express... Q)…

Tourism Boards

Laos looks to Japan for tourism boost

Mark Elliott Apr 8, 2014

Laos could boost its tourism revenues by attracting more Japanese visitors, an event in the country has heard. The 12th Lanith (Lao National Institute of Tourism & Hospitality)…

Airlines and Aviation

Did you get April Fooled?

Mark Elliott Apr 1, 2014

Bolsover Cruise Club went all out on fooling everyone with plans to turn its Cruise Club office into a ship. Plans including sinking the car park and filling it with water to become the…

Airlines and Aviation

THAI boosts Asian routes, but cuts Europe

Mark Elliott Feb 9, 2014

Thai Airways International (THAI) will add extra capacity on several Asian routes this summer, but at the expense of flights to destinations in Europe. Unveiling its summer schedules…

Tourism

Laos arrivals surge in 2013

Mark Elliott Feb 6, 2014

International arrivals to Laos saw double-digit growth in 2013. The landlocked country welcomed 3.78 million visitors last year, 14.5% more than 2012 and exceeding its full-year…

Hotels

SilverNeedle expands boutique collection

Mark Elliott Jan 29, 2014

SilverNeedle Hospitality has added another property to its collection of boutique hotels. The Riva Arun in Bangkok has become the latest member of the SilverNeedle Collection, which…

Road

Avis arrives in Cambodia and Laos

Mark Elliott Dec 7, 2013

Car rental company Avis is launching operations in Cambodia and Laos, following the signing of a new licensing agreement in the two countries. Avis has signed a deal with RMA Group that…

Road

Khiri launches designer tuk tuks

Mark Elliott Sep 26, 2013

Khiri Travel has introduced a fleet of designer tuk tuks to transport its guests in Laos and Cambodia. The new three-wheelers feature will be piloted by a Khiri driver and tour guide…

Airlines and Aviation

THAI Smile expands to China, Laos

Mark Elliott Sep 22, 2013

Thai Airways International (THAI) has revealed that its regional low-cost carrier, THAI Smile, will commence flights to mainland China and Laos. From 27 October 2013, the airline will…

Global

Five on Friday – Asia

Apr 26, 2013 7

Stay longer with Anantara in Bali Anantara is giving guests a good reason to stay longer in Bali this spring and summer. Under the Anantara Stay Longer Special promotion, the…

Global

Five on Friday – Post-Songkran Special

Apr 19, 2013 12

Still recuperating after Songkran? Well hotels in Thailand are still offering some great deals for locals and post-New Year visitors alike. Here is Travel Daily Asia’s selection of the best…

Global

Five on Friday – Asia

Apr 12, 2013 13

Three for two at The Siam, Bangkok The Siam, the riverside resort in Bangkok, is offering guests the chance to stay for three nights for the price of two. Guests can choose from any…

Global

Asian airlines start flying Sukhoi Superjets

Apr 2, 2013 1

Two Asian airlines have launched the first flights using their new Russian-made Sukhoi Superjet 100 (SSJ-100) aircraft. Lao Central Airlines recently put its SSJ-100 into service on…

Appointments

The latest industry appointments – Asia

Mar 5, 2013 9

AKIRA MORENA has been appointed Chief Executive Officer of GHM's Chinese hotel management company, Ahn Luh. Moreno is currently the Vice President of Development & Pre-Opening…

Hotels

SilverNeedle plans boutique brand expansion

Jan 28, 2013 15

SilverNeedle Hospitality has announced plans for a major expansion of its boutique hotel brand, the SilverNeedle Collection. The collection, which currently features three properties in…

Airlines and Aviation

Bangkok Airways boosts flights for 2013

Jan 9, 2013 16

Bangkok Airways will add a range of new services in 2013, in the addition to the launch of new domestic and international destinations. The airline will commence twice daily flights to…

Tourism

Laos embraces foreign tourism investors

Dec 3, 2012 7

The Lao government has relaxed investment regulations in the country ahead of the AEC 2015, creating very favorable conditions for international participation as it invites foreign operators…

Hotels

SilverNeedle launches boutique hotel collection

Oct 18, 2012 18

SilverNeedle Hospitality has launched a new brand, combining a selection of its independent boutique hotels. The SilverNeedle Collection, as the new brand will be known, will initially…

Airlines and Aviation

THAI Smile aims to fill gap in the market

Jul 11, 2012 19

Newly-launched airline THAI Smile is aiming to satisfy the growing regional demand for flights to and from Thailand, according to the carrier’s Managing Director, Captain Woranate Laprabang.…

Tourism

Cross-border travel the key to Golden Triangle’s tourism future

Jun 12, 2012 0

The Golden Triangle region of northern Thailand, Laos and Myanmar needs to boost cross-border travel if it wants to secure its tourism future, the head of a leading regional destination…

Airlines and Aviation

Lao Airlines to launch Singapore flights

Mark Elliott Nov 23, 2011 15

Lao Airlines will launch its first ever flights to Singapore tomorrow (Thursday 24 November 2011). The national carrier recently received its first ever jet aircraft - two 142-seat Airbus…

Hotels

Hotel de la Paix comes to Thailand

Mark Elliott Oct 30, 2011 5

Hotel de la Paix, the boutique hotel in Siem Reap, has arrived in Thailand with the reflagging of KS Resorts' beach resort in Cha-Am. Located on Cha-Am beach, the former Alila Cha-Am…

Hotels

Poor infrastructure limits Vientiane’s hotel sector

Aug 25, 2011

Poor access and a lack of infrastructure is restricting the growth of the hotel and tourism industry in the Lao capital Vientiane, according a new report from Horwath HTL. The upper-tier…

Hotels

KS resorts reflags its Laos property

Jul 31, 2011

KS Resorts is reflagging its Laos property as the Hotel de La Paix Luang Prabang, formerly Alila Luang Prabang, effective from 1 August.The French colonial style hotel has 23 suites each…

Laos

Laos tour operator expands to Thailand

Mark Elliott Jun 23, 2011

Tiger Trail Outdoor Adventures, a Laos-based adventure travel operator, will expand its operations to Thailand. The Tiger Trail Thailand headquarters will open 1 July in Chiang Mai.…

Attractions & Tours

Laos targets US$1bn travel industry

Mark Elliott May 20, 2011

The travel industry in Laos could generate more than twice 2010's US$400 million in revenue to hit US$1 billion within 10 years, according to Peter Semone, Chief Technical Advisor for the…

OTAs & Tour Operators

Exotissimo invites agents on Southeast Asia fam trips

Mark Elliott Apr 25, 2011

Exotissimo Travel has unveiled its 2011 fam trips, due to take place between August and November this year. The tour operator is inviting agents to join them on six itineraries across…

Tourism

Laos tourism school gets much-needed equipment

Mark Elliott Mar 3, 2011

The Lao National Institute of Tourism & Hospitality (Lanith) has taken a major step to develop catering skills in Laos' hotel sector. The institute has received a donation of modern…

Laos

Stray Asia expands into remote northeastern Laos

Mark Elliott Mar 2, 2011

Stray Asia will launch trips to the remote northeast region of Laos later this month. The bus tour operator will offer a five-day pass called 'Long Thaang', which is translated as 'gets…

Airlines and Aviation

Bangkok Airways announces India expansion

Mark Elliott Feb 16, 2011

Bangkok Airways has announced 2011 expansion strategy at an event in Bangkok. The airline's President, Puttipong Prasarttong-Osoth, Vice President of Corporate Communications,…

Airlines and Aviation

Bangkok Airways announces India expansion

Mark Elliott Feb 16, 2011

Bangkok Airways has announced 2011 expansion strategy at an event in Bangkok. The airline's President, Puttipong Prasarttong-Osoth, Vice President of Corporate Communications,…

Hotels

Design Hotels adds seven new members in Asia Pacific

Mark Elliott Jan 27, 2011

Design Hotels has announced the addition of 35 new member hotels, seven of which are located in the Asia Pacific region. Three of the new properties are located in India - the soon-to-open…

Events

Napasai Samui to host charity gourmet event

Mark Elliott Jan 6, 2011

South-East Asian gastronomy interpreted by six of the region's most acclaimed international chefs is on the menu for charity at Orient-Express beachside hideaway Napasai in Koh Samui from…

Global

Villa Maly unveils renovated bar

Mark Elliott Mar 21, 2010

LUANG PRABANG, Laos (19 March 2010)

Global

Adi Jaya

Mark Elliott Mar 19, 2010

In yesterday's TDA, we announced that Adi Jaya had been appointed General Manager of the Alila Luang Prabang. In fact, Mr Jaya has been named as GM of the Shinta Mani Luang…

Global

Exotissimo launches new family tours

Mark Elliott Mar 16, 2010

Bangkok, Thailand (15 March 2010) - Exotissimo Travel, Southeast Asia's leading destination management company, has launched a new range of family tour packages specially…

Global

Khiri Travel launches luxury Laos adventure

Mark Elliott Feb 4, 2010

BANGKOK, THAILAND, 4 February 2010 - Khiri Travel has launched a "Tribes and Rivers of Northern Laos" tour. The luxury seven-day tour is part of the company's Khiri Gold…

Global

Discovery Airpass alliance adds Berjaya Airways

Mark Elliott Jan 19, 2010

Bangkok - Bangkok Airways (PG) in corporation with Lao Airline (QV) adds "Berjaya Airways"(J8) as an alliance in the 'Discovery Airpass' offering a more extensive network in the region…

Global

Khiri Travel launches CSR division

Mark Elliott Nov 25, 2009

BANGKOK, 24 November 2009 - The Khiri Travel Group today launched Khiri Reach, a separate and permanent charitable wing of the group. Khiri Reach is dedicated to helping…

Global

Exotissimo unveils Top 5 Southeast Asia picks

Mark Elliott Nov 24, 2009

Bangkok, Thailand (24 November 2009) - Southeast Asia's leading destination management company Exotissimo Travel has released its top travel picks for 2010. From family trips to…

Global

New audio tour recalls Laos war

Mark Elliott Nov 19, 2009

VIENGXAY, LAOS - A new audio tour launched 18 November in a remote corner of Indochina brings alive the story of America's 'secret war' in Laos. Between 1964 and 1973 America,…

Global

Exotissimo fam trips highlight Southeast Asia

Mark Elliott Nov 6, 2009

Bangkok, Thailand (5 November 2009) - During the month of September, Exotissimo Travel hosted its annual Familiarization (FAM) trips across Southeast Asia. These three trips…

Global

New Laos Mekong cruise combos

Mark Elliott Oct 14, 2009

A new season has just started and Cruise Mekong has announced new cruises and routings on a comfortable and kind of luxury way and with our cabin - cruiser "Mekong Sun". Also our two new…

Global

Phuket to be Air Asia hub

Mark Elliott Oct 2, 2009

Air Asia plans to use Phuket as a hub for connecting flights to tourist destinations in this region. Using the 180-seater Airbus 320, it will connect Phuket with Ho Chi Minh City in…

Global

Khiri Asia targets ‘hot’ Indian market

Mark Elliott Sep 9, 2009

BANGKOK, 9 September 2009 - The Khiri Travel Group today launched Khiri Asia which will promote Thailand and Indochina to the Asian travel trade, starting with India. Under…

Global

Villa Maly christens Nava Mekong

Mark Elliott Feb 17, 2009

Villa Maly, in Laos' UNESCO World Heritage-listed town of Luang Prabang, has launched Nava Mekong, the first, regular dinner cruise opportunity along this stretch of the…

Features

Mekong River Cruises launches Laos voyages

Mark Elliott Jan 5, 2009

Mekong River Cruises has announced plans to launch three luxury cabin cruiser voyages in Laos this year. From June the Mekong Sun Vessel will cruises between Luang Prabang and the Golden…

Features

Laos and Thailand exchange information on tourism

Mark Elliott Nov 28, 2008

Lao Airlines has held a seminar to exchange information on tourism in two provinces, Thailand's Udon Thani and Luang Prabang in Laos, the country's KPL news agency has reported.…

Features

Lao Airlines add Thai connection

Mark Elliott Nov 4, 2008

Lao Airlines has announced the opening of a new route between Luang Prabang and Thailand's northeastern hub, Udon Thani. The Bangkok Post has reported that the new route will operate…

Face‑to‑Face

Face-to-Face: Willem Niemeijer - Managing Director, Khiri Travel

Mark Elliott Oct 21, 2008

1) There are many operators offering tours in Indochina. What differentiates the products offered by Khiri?Khiri combines all the countries of…

Quote of the Day

Best Western looks to Laos

Mark Elliott Sep 26, 2008

Best Western International (BWI) is continuing is rapid Asian expansion with a move into possibly Asia's most underdeveloped market - Laos. The Laos move is being facilitated by the…

Charity / Sustainability / CSR

Asian cities join to fight climate change (lead)

Jul 1, 2008

The leaders of several key Asian cities have met in Bangkok to discuss climate change, the Antara News Agency has reported. The Bangkok Declaration on Climate Change brought together mayors…

Features

AirAsia to Vientiane daily

Mark Elliott Feb 22, 2008

AirAsia will introduce daily direct flight for its newly-launched Kuala Lumpur-Vientiane route by May this year from three flights per week.According to Bernama, Group Chief Executive…

Airlines and Aviation

VN launches more Indochina flights

Mark Elliott Oct 26, 2007

It will also launch a service between the Vietnamese capital and Guangzhou next Monday, Vietnam Airlines spokesman Trinh Ngoc Thanh was quoted saying by VietnamNet Bridge.There will be…

Hotels

索菲特酒店来到老挝

Mark Elliott Apr 5, 2016

雅高酒店（AccorHotels）正式在老挝推出了索菲特酒店品牌，在琅勃拉邦新开业了一家索菲特。 琅勃拉邦索菲特酒店位于一栋于1990年为法国政府家庭建造的大楼里。酒店设有25个套房，面积从46平方米至120平方米不等，全部配备可关闭的窗户，手工制造的木床，以及私人花园。其中一些单元还设有私人下陷式泳池。…