Hospitality

Singapore and Okinawa: How to soak in the wellness benefits of these blue zones

Kristin Mariano Oct 19, 2023

In the wake of the recent hit Netflix series ‘Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones’, the world has become a little obsessed with the idea of these special regions around the world where…

Charity / Sustainability / CSR

Children from Hong Kong, Japan, and Taiwan conduct “Beach Cleaning” in Okinawa

Kanchan Nath Aug 23, 2023

With the Japanese government potentially discharging nuclear wastewater, children have taken a special interest in discussing environmental issues in Japan.

Hospitality

Halekulani Okinawa becomes first and only Virtuoso member in Okinawa

Kristin Mariano Jul 17, 2023

Halekulani Okinawa has announced its recent acceptance into the prestigious Virtuoso luxury travel network as the first and only member in Okinawa. This new affiliation represents…

Airlines and Aviation

Thai Vietjet inaugurates Bangkok – Okinawa service

Kanchan Nath Mar 20, 2023

Thai Vietjet successfully commenced its maiden flight service between Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi) and Okinawa (Japan) with a warm welcome ceremony at Naha Airport in presence of a representative…

Airlines and Aviation

Thai Vietjet to fly the only direct Bangkok – Okinawa route

Kanchan Nath Feb 15, 2023

Budget airline Thai Vietjet is expanding its wings with new direct flights between Bangkok, Thailand, and Okinawa in Japan, in collaboration with Thai travel agency Tourladfah Co., Ltd.

Tourism

Okinawa welcomes Japan’s earliest cherry blossom with series of events

Kristin Mariano Dec 21, 2022

Okinawa is gearing up for the cherry blossom season with a series of events and festivals to welcome visitors keen to witness the earliest showing of this magical display. Thanks to its…

Tourism

Okinawa bolsters tourism offering unique accommodations

Kristin Mariano Nov 4, 2022

Okinawa is set to welcome the launch of two new properties, further bolstering its tourism offering now that Japan’s borders have re-opened to all international visitors. ‘NOT A HOTEL…

Eturbo News

Hong Kong Airlines resumes Okinawa and Sapporo flights

Harry Johnson Nov 3, 2022 0

Hong Kong Airlines celebrated the resumption of its service toOkinawa on 2 November, following a long wait of two years. Known as the “Hawaii of Japan”, Okinawa is the airline’s third…

Learn more about Okinawa’s nature and culture in Visit Okinawa’s latest videos

Kristin Mariano Mar 31, 2022

Visit Okinawa has released new videos for travel agents looking to learn more about the unique experiences Japan’s southernmost prefecture has to offer as well as tips on how to incorporate…

Two new hotels set to open in Okinawa in 2022

Kristin Mariano Dec 27, 2021

Two hotels struck their flags on the magical island of Okinawa.

Hotels

Okinawa’s Kouri Island welcomes two new luxury hotels

Kristin Mariano Jul 15, 2021

Kouri Island, in Japan’s subtropical southern prefecture of Okinawa, has welcomed the opening of two new luxury properties: Away Okinawa Kouri Island Resort and LOISIR Terrace & Villas…

Tourism Boards

4 ways to experience Okinawa like a local

Kristin Mariano Feb 2, 2021

No need to fly Hawaii and Cancun, Okinawa's remote beaches and idyllic waters with a year-round warm climate attract the most visitors.

Sustainable luxury treehouse eco resort to open in Okinawa in 2021

Kristin Mariano Sep 23, 2020

Okinawa is set to welcome the opening of a brand new sustainable luxury eco resort in Spring 2021.

Tourism Boards

New domestic flights to Okinawa boost accessibility of sub-tropical paradise

Kristin Mariano Aug 31, 2020

The announcement of new Skymark Airlines flights to Shimojishima has come as a welcome boost to those wishing to soak up the sun, sea and culture in Okinawa once current restrictions are…

5 hotels in Okinawa open just in time for the summer

Kristin Mariano Jul 2, 2020

Five hotels in Okinawa are opening their doors to welcome guests post-COVID.

Okinawans reveal five secrets of healthy lifestyle and longevity

Kristin Mariano Jun 2, 2020

While it may be some time before travellers can visit the prefecture again in person, Visit Okinawa share the top tips on how to live a healthy life like an island local from anywhere in the…

Okinawa’s ‘longevity islands’ offer a wellness retreat like no other

Kristin Mariano Feb 19, 2020

With its unique combination of Japanese culture, subtropical temperatures and stunning natural scenery, Okinawa is one of the most fascinating destinations in the Far East and promises a…

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…

HK Express marks new route to Okinawa

Megha Paul Sep 27, 2019

Hong Kong-based airline HK Express announced its debut route to Naha, the capital of Okinawa Prefecture. Beginning operations on 26 September 2019, the highly anticipated new link will…

Hot hotel openings: Okinawa’s new beach-front paradise and more

Tian Tolentino Aug 16, 2019

In this week's list of hot hotel openings, we're seeing enviable properties — from the picturesque island of Okinawa to the bustling fashion district of Milan.

Air

Jetstar adds fifth Service to Okinawa

Megha Paul Jul 29, 2019

Jetstar Asia, the only airline to provide direct scheduled flights between Singapore and Okinawa, will boost its services between the two cities from four to five return flights a week,…

Air

Discover Okinawa’s Miyako Islands with HK Express

Megha Paul Jul 23, 2019

Low-cost carriers in Hong Kong, HK Express, has announced its debut route between Hong Kong and Miyako-Shimojishima in Japan. A continuation of its expansion throughout Asia, HK Express…

Air

HK Express announces route to Naha, Okinawa

Megha Paul Jun 26, 2019

Hong Kong’s low-cost carrier HK Express has announced a new route to Naha, the capital of Okinawa Prefecture in Japan. Scheduled to commence on 26 September 2019, the highly…

Airlines and Aviation

Singapore gets new connection to Okinawa

Mark Elliott Aug 1, 2017

Singapore will get a new direct link to the island of Okinawa next year, when Jetstar Asia expands its Japanese network. Commencing on 17 November 2017, to coincide with the start of…

Airlines and Aviation

Asian air route updates: New flights to Bali, Okinawa, Barcelona and more

Mark Elliott Mar 13, 2017

Another direct Chinese connection between Bali and China Where? Fuzhou (China) to Denpasar (Indonesia) When? Daily, effective 26 March 2017 Who? Xiamen Airlines Why? Fujian province’s…

Airlines and Aviation

JAL to open new airport lounge in Okinawa

Mark Elliott Feb 17, 2017

Japan Airlines has confirmed that its newly-renovated lounge at Okinawa's Naha Airport will open on 28 February 2017. The new Sakura Lounge is located in the domestic area of the…

Global

Japan National Tourism Organisation uses NFTs to promote Expo 2025

Marga Manlapig Dec 6, 2024

The Japan National Tourism Organization is currently promoting Osaka Expo 2025 through a stunning line of non-fungible tokens that capture the essence of Japan.

Reports

New study shows Japanese locals keenly feel impact of overtourism

Marga Manlapig Dec 4, 2024

Japanese research organisation Jalan Research Center recently conducted a study on the impact of overtourism in the country.

Air

Japan Airlines flying the flag high for Expo 2025 Osaka

Mark Glanville Nov 14, 2024

Japan Airlines is helping promote Expo 2025 Osaka, with special livery on one of its Boeing 787-8 aircraft operating international routes.

Reports

Japan National Tourism Organisation reveals highlights for 2025

Marga Manlapig Nov 8, 2024

The Japan National Tourism Organisation reports that, this year, the country’s tourism experienced remarkable expansion, with eight straight months of record-breaking arrivals. 

Reports

CBRE releases insights on Asia Pacific tourism and hospitality trends in Q3-2024

Marga Manlapig Oct 15, 2024

Global real estate firm CBRE Group Inc released its Asia Pacific tourism and hospitality trends report for the third quarter of this year.

Reports

Agoda reveals Asia’s ten most sought-after beach destinations

Marga Manlapig Aug 26, 2024

Agoda revealed its top ten list of Asia’s most desirable beach destinations ahead of International Beach Day on 1st September, with Bali taking the top spot.

Annual and Interim Reports

Asia Aviation Plc announces operational results for first half of this year

Marga Manlapig Aug 14, 2024

Thai AirAsia Co Ltd’s sole shareholder Asia Aviation Plc (AAV) announced its operational results for the first six months of 2024.

Cruise

Resorts World Cruises returns to Taiwan for a second year

Marga Manlapig Jul 16, 2024

Popular demand resulted in the return of Resorts World Cruises to Taiwan for a second year on 12 July.

Cruise

Royal Caribbean’s Spectrum of the Seas offers added ports of call

Kanchan Nath May 10, 2024

With the expanded ports of call, Spectrum now visits coastal cities such as Ishigaki and Okinawa in Japan, Busan and Jeju in South Korea, and Danang and Nha Trang in Vietnam.

Hotels

Accor doubles Japan footprint with opening of 22 hotels 

Kanchan Nath Apr 2, 2024

Accor, the region’s largest international hospitality group, is delighted to announce the opening of 22 hotels and over 6,000 rooms in Japan on Monday, 1 April 2024.

Global

Spring in Japan: Cherry Blossom Forecast 2024

Kanchan Nath Feb 29, 2024

While March to April marks the peak of cherry blossom (Sakura in Japanese) season in most parts of Japan, Sakura can also be enjoyed as early as February in southern Japan, particularly in…

Cruise

Holland America Line visits ‘All Seven Continents’ and Antarctic on 2026 Grand World Voyage

Kanchan Nath Feb 27, 2024

Holland America Line is set to sail one of its most ambitious Grand World Voyages in 2026. The meticulously planned 132-day cruise will span all seven continents, including a special…

Hotels

Work From Japan (WFJ): Best Experiences for Digital Nomads

Kanchan Nath Feb 25, 2024

Japan will begin issuing six-month visas for digital nomads at the end of March and the U.S., Australia and Singapore are among 49 eligible countries and territories.

Hotels

BWH hotels unveils newly-renovated and rebranded Best Western Plus Hotel Nagoya Sakae

Kanchan Nath Feb 20, 2024

BWH Hotels (BWH) will welcome back a newly-renovated and rebranded hotel, the Best Western Plus Hotel Nagoya Sakae from the 13th of March 2024

Airlines and Aviation

ANA and ITA Airways to begin codeshare partnership for travel between Japan and Italy 

Kanchan Nath Jan 16, 2024

All Nippon Airways, the largest Japanese carrier, and ITA Airways, the Italian  national carrier, have signed a codeshare agreement connecting their networks. 

Hotels

The Ritz-Carlton expands Evolved Ritz Kids program in Asia-Pacific, bringing more inspiring and educational adventures to young guests

Chris Head Dec 13, 2023

New Mascot ‘Leo the Lion’ Invites Kids to Explore the Wonders of Nature, Discover Amazing Destinations, Embrace Diverse Cultures and Learn the Value of Mindful Interactions

Cruise

Ponant Launches ‘Flight Inclusive’ Japan 2024 Expedition Itineraries*

Joe Cusmano Nov 2, 2023

Ponant, the world leader in luxury expeditions, has launched an exclusive offer for the Australian and New Zealand markets, with inclusive flights on select 2024 Japanese itineraries…

Cruise

Norwegian Cruise Line encourages Indian cruisers to set sail on its Newest Asia Pacific Itineraries

Kanchan Nath Sep 29, 2023

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), the innovator in global cruise travel, has recently launched a series of 14 immersive, destination-rich Asia Pacific itineraries aboard the spectacularly…

Hotels

Accor signs 30 new properties in Asia in June & July 2023

Kanchan Nath Aug 24, 2023

Accor has signed 30 new hotels and resorts across Asia over the last two months under the Group’s Premium, Midscale & Economy brands.

Hospitality

Accor signs 30 new properties across Asia in June and July 2023

Kristin Mariano Aug 24, 2023

Accor, the region’s leading international hospitality operator, has signed  30 new hotels and resorts across Asia over the last two months under the Group’s  Premium, Midscale &…

Global

Research reveals what 10 popular tourist destinations could look like in 2050 due to the impact of climate change

Kanchan Nath Aug 10, 2023

DiscoverCars.com worked with an environmental specialist to determine the potential changes to destinations and road conditions within the next 27 years.

Features

Top 6 luxurious autumn trips to “Fall” for

Kanchan Nath Aug 7, 2023

Whether it’s a long getaway to immerse in the scenic fall colors or a trip to enjoy local cultural festivities, there are these six can’t-miss fall vacations for every type of traveller

Hotels

Accor doubles portfolio in Japan with agreement to operate 23 properties

Kanchan Nath Jul 24, 2023

Accor, the region’s largest international hospitality group is expanding its presence in Japan with the addition of the Daiwa Resorts portfolio, adding 23 properties and over 6,000 rooms, to…

Hotels

Banyan Tree Group’s growth soars with 70th property milestone

Kanchan Nath Jul 7, 2023

Banyan Tree Group proudly celebrates its 70th property milestone with the recent openings of Angsana Ho Tram and Dhawa Ho Tram in Vietnam, as well as Folio Sakura Shinsaibashi Osaka and Homm…

Cruise

Royal Caribbean opens 2024-25 vacations from Shanghai, marking return to China

Kanchan Nath Jul 3, 2023

The cruise line’s highlight anticipated return to China is set for April 2024, when Spectrum sails from Shanghai to popular getaway destinations like Fukuoka, Okinawa, Nagasaki and Osaka, …

Global

“World of Winners” air ticket giveaway campaign launches in Tokyo

Kanchan Nath Jun 28, 2023

The “World of Winners” air ticket giveaway campaign, sponsored by Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK), was kicked off in Japan with a two-day promotional event in Tokyo, promoting over 38,000…

Tourism

Five best places to catch a wave on International Surfing Day 2023

Kristin Mariano Jun 19, 2023

Uniting communities around the world, surfing is a great way to experience the ocean whether you are just starting out or you’re a seasoned wave rider. From the rugged Chilean coast to…

Hospitality

BWH Hotels brings BW Signature Collection to Kyoto

Kristin Mariano May 31, 2023

BWH Hotels has announced the opening of KAYA Kyoto Nijo Castle, BW Signature Collection by Best Western, an elegant new boutique hotel that puts guests in the heart of Japan’s ancient…

Eturbo News

New Hong Kong to Nagoya Flight on Hong Kong Airlines

Harry Johnson May 24, 2023 0

eTurboNews: Nagoya is an excellent destination for those looking to experience the rich history and vibrant culture of Japan Read more: New Hong Kong to Nagoya Flight on Hong Kong Airlines…

Cruise

Royal Caribbean sets course for new 2024 adventures in China

Kristin Mariano May 24, 2023

Royal Caribbean International has set the date for its return to China in April 2024, with Asia’s largest and most innovative ship, Spectrum of the Seas, sailing from Shanghai. …

Reports

Booking boom for Japan as 54% of agents report increased enquiries: PATA

Kanchan Nath May 23, 2023

Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) UK & Ireland is pleased to share results of their latest 'PATA Polls' - a series of short surveys where they ask their travel agent network to…

Cruise

Norwegian Cruise Line Returns After Three Years To Cruising In Asia

Joe Cusmano May 3, 2023

Norwegian Cruise Line is counting down the days until the much-anticipated return of the freshly rejuvenated Norwegian Jewel to Asia after over three years, on 19 October and 11 November…

Cruise

Celebrity Cruises Oversales Voyage Six Months Before Sailing

Joe Cusmano Apr 27, 2023

Celebrity Cruises has notified selected passengers booked on the Celebrity Millennium’s 24 October 2023 voyage that their trip has been oversold. The cruise line provides numerous…

Tourism

The most popular spring destinations according to Instagram revealed

Kristin Mariano Mar 27, 2023

Springtime is upon us, and we are all starting to consider a spring holiday or quick city break. However, with so many unique options dotted all around the world, it can be difficult to…

Eturbo News

New Hong Kong Airlines Flight to Beijing Daxing Airport

Harry Johnson Mar 15, 2023 0

by: Harry Johnson | Hong Kong Airlines first airline in Hong Kong to operate service to Daxing and both international airports in Beijing Full article: New Hong Kong Airlines Flight to…

Global

The Ritz-Carlton, Fukuoka to open its doors on June 21

Kristin Mariano Mar 8, 2023

The Ritz-Carlton, Fukuoka will open its doors on 21 June 2023, welcoming guests to the prefectural capital of Fukuoka on the island of Kyushu in southern Japan with the Ritz-Carlton legacy…

Tourism

Five ways to journey Japan sustainably

Kristin Mariano Feb 1, 2023

A country connected to its landscapes and with a long-held respect for living things, sustainable tourism in Japan is key to preserving its culture and beauty. Whether it’s staying in…

Cruise

Royal Caribbean Announces Additional Asia Cruises

Joe Cusmano Jan 27, 2023

Royal Caribbean International has announced new 12-night Asia voyages aboard Spectrum of the Seas exploring Asia. The cruises will depart from Singapore to Japan later this year, with…

Tourism

A guide to all things new in Japan in 2023

Kristin Mariano Jan 9, 2023

Japan’s cities are experiencing a rejuvenation, from creative quarters in lesser-known areas to worldwide recognised exhibitions opening in its capital. Jurassic World: The Exhibition,…

Hospitality

Hotel Management Japan offers unique lodging experiences fully leveraging local attractions

Kristin Mariano Dec 29, 2022

As Japan eased entry restrictions in October 2022 and because of the yen's historic fall, Hotel Management Japan, which has 6,472 rooms in 21 hotels of various types across Japan, has…

Hotels

D-EDGE provides Hamamatsu hotel group with seamless technology

Kanchan Nath Dec 23, 2022

Japan’s luxury hospitality group Hiramatsu, signed an agreement with D-EDGE Hospitality Solutions, a hospitality technology provider, to expand its international market share. 

Tourism

Japan in 2023: A bucket-list-worthy adventure

Kristin Mariano Dec 1, 2022

Reopening tourism at the beginning of October, the new year presents the perfect opportunity to plan a trip to Japan. Independent travel and visa waivers have been resumed, and the…

Hospitality

World of Hyatt introduces FIND: A platform of curated well-being experiences

Kristin Mariano Nov 10, 2022

Grounded in its ongoing efforts to inspire and empower travellers to pursue their individual well-being goals, World of Hyatt is introducing FIND, an experiences platform, through Hyatt’s…

Technology

MyStays Hotel Management partners with Sabre

Kanchan Nath Oct 25, 2022

Sabre Corporation announced a new alliance with MyStays Hotel Management. The agreement will enable the Tokyo-headquartered hotel chain to grow its global reach, including putting its offers…

Asia

Klook: Asia Pacific travel recovery with strong 300% QoQ revenue growth

Kanchan Nath Sep 29, 2022

Klook announced that it is seeing accelerated cross-border travel growth in Asia Pacific with one of its strongest quarters (over 300% QoQ growth) as it celebrates its eight-anniversary…

Tourism

Despite resurgence of new Covid-19 cases in Tokyo, Japan rules out travel curbs

Megha Paul Aug 1, 2022

While most countries have lifted border restrictions fully, Japan is taking a unique approach by removing restrictions for domestic residents while keeping a tight vigil on its borders

Coral Expeditions launches small islands of Japan & the Philippines series

Kristin Mariano Jul 6, 2022

Coral Expeditions, Australia’s pioneering cruise line, has announced a new series of voyages to the Small Islands of Japan and the Philippines. Part of Coral Expeditions’ Small Islands…

Club Med unveils its newest resort in Kiroro, Japan

Kristin Mariano Jul 1, 2022

During a reveal event with partners in Club Med Singapore’s newest office, Henri Giscard d’Estaing, President of Club Med, announced its newest addition to its portfolio of resorts in…

Tourism

Japan finally reopens borders to international tourism, but with caveats

Kristin Mariano Jun 13, 2022

After more than two years of closed borders, Japan has reopened its borders to foreign tourists.

Heritage Expeditions announces three new Japan voyages for 2023 schedule

Kristin Mariano May 10, 2022

Pioneering New Zealand-based expedition cruise company Heritage Expeditions has added the intriguing islands of Japan to its 2023 schedule announcing three incredible new voyages aboard…

Life-changing luxury experiences in Japan

Kristin Mariano Apr 27, 2022

Luxury comes easily to Japan. Otherworldly landscapes and cosmopolitan cities provide the perfect backdrop to a culture where tradition is revered and aesthetics deeply appreciated.…

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…

Rethinking the future of luxury travel

editor Oct 26, 2021

It’s great to see robust signs of recovery in travel. There is clearly pent-up demand. And specifically, for luxury travel.

Cruise

Princess Cruises celebrates 10 years of sailing in Japan in 2023

Kristin Mariano Sep 2, 2021

The lure of Japan’s traditions, festivals and landscapes can magically come to life for travellers during the newly-announced 2023 cruises and cruise tours season from Princess Cruises.

Interviews

Journey to the Land of the Rising Sun

Kristin Mariano Aug 11, 2021

Let PONANT be their guide to Japan’s culture, cuisine and daily life.

Sports Tourism

Traditional sports across Japan to try out once we can travel again

Kristin Mariano Jul 28, 2021

Sports in Japan are a significant part of the Japanese culture.

Airlines and Aviation

ANA Future Promise: Airline unites ESG initiatives

Kristin Mariano Jun 18, 2021

ANA Future Promise unites all of these successful Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) initiatives under a forward-looking slogan.

Hotels

Four Seasons Hotel Osaka: New luxury lifestyle destination in Kansai

Kristin Mariano Jun 9, 2021

Four Seasons Hotel Osaka will complement the brand’s existing properties in Japan.

Sports Tourism

5 reasons why Japan and IOC insist on holding the Tokyo Olympics

Kristin Mariano May 26, 2021

Japan is suffering another spike of COVID-19 infections that even the island paradise of Okinawa is under a state of emergency. The fourth wave, once again, raised concerns on the upcoming…

Tourism Boards

GoodnessofJapan! What’s in store as JNTO extends campaign with Sumo star in India

Megha Paul Apr 14, 2021

Basking on the success of the #GoodnessofJapan campaign, the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) recently teamed-up with Yoshinori Tashiro, a famous Japanese Sumo wrestler to continue…

Features

Holland America Line opens bookings for 2021-22 voyages

Harry S. Aug 20, 2020

Holland America Line is opening bookings for two of its most epic explorations: the 2022 Grand World Voyage and the 2021 Grand Africa Voyage. Guests who want to circle the globe on the…

Japan’s latest tourism video will make you beg to travel there

Kristin Mariano Jul 22, 2020

The Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) has launched a new global campaign to showcase the diversity of Japan as a destination and to inspire travel - when possible.

Air

ANA to open new lounge in Narita Airport

Megha Paul Jan 21, 2020

All Nippon Airways (ANA), Japan’s largest airline, will open a state-of-the-art new lounge in Tokyo Narita International Airport (NRT) on 29 March. The new lounge will be ANA’s third at…

Hot hotel openings: andBeyond thrives in the ancient Namibian desert and more

Tian Tolentino Nov 15, 2019

On this week's round-up of hot hotel openings, andBeyond unveils its property in Namibia's ancient desert, Nobu celebrates with a sake ceremony in Los Cabos, Lazy Bay opens in the Bahamas…

Appointments

Outrigger Hospitality SVP & CDO: “We expect to continue to grow”

Tian Tolentino Oct 7, 2019

In this exclusive TD interview, SVP & CDO Kenny Kan reveals his strategy to achieve growth, new developments in the company and the future of Outrigger Hospitality Group.

PONANT’s Le Lapérouse: Luxury expedition sailing with 5-star hotel services

Tian Tolentino Sep 30, 2019

This exclusive cruise feature is brought to you by TD founder and co-chairman Gary Marshall aboard the small luxury expedition ship, Ponant Le Lapérouse, en route to Osaka, for what might be…

Hot hotel openings: Rosewood’s new “mansion in the sky” and more

Tian Tolentino Sep 13, 2019

On this week’s round-up of hot hotel openings, we’re taking a look at Rosewood’s sky-high property in Guangzhou, a luxury lodge in the Arctic Circle and more.

Air

Korean Air reduces flights to Japan in bid to develop APAC and Chinese services

Alastair Newport Aug 20, 2019

Korean Air has announced its plans to adjust the frequency of some routes, in consideration of decreasing demand of Japanese routes due to Korea-Japan tensions. At the same time, the…

Interviews

Family, ninjas and a top-notch day out

Alastair Newport Aug 8, 2019

In part one of my interview with Sarah Somerville, Hilton’s senior director of customer engagement, loyalty and partnerships in Asia Pacific, we put the brand’s recent study into the travel…

Air

ANA first Japanese airline to launch Boeing 777 Freighter

Megha Paul Jul 3, 2019

All Nippon Airways (ANA), Japan’s largest and five-star airline for seven consecutive years, is introducing the Boeing 777 Freighter to its fleet to aid with increased cargo…

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’…

Hotels

Marriott’s APAC luxury portfolio to grow in 2019

Tian Tolentino Jun 5, 2019

Marriott International has announced strong growth of its APAC luxury portfolio with 13 new luxury properties projected to open in 2019.

Cruise

Dream Cruises unveils new ‘Godmother’ at Explorer launch

Alastair Newport Mar 26, 2019

With the role of women in society, culture and business honoured with the World Women’s day earlier this month, Dream Cruises has signed up trail-blazing Chinese designer, Grace Chen, as its…

Cruise

Genting: Dreams of mermaids and unicorns

Alastair Newport Mar 15, 2019

Cruise heavyweight Genting, has unveiled artwork outlining the concept and good looks of its latest arrival’s new hull design, the 75,338 -ton, 1,870  capacity Explorer Dream, ahead of its…

Global

Aviation round-up: “This was a very special moment for me” says Santa

Alastair Newport Dec 18, 2018

With just one week to go before  Christmas -- a peak time for airlines where people take time out from their hectic schedules to head home or visit far flung loved ones. It is time to take a…

Airlines and Aviation

Aviation round up: BA waves goodbye to an icon, Ethiopian says hello Moscow and more

Alastair Newport Nov 28, 2018

It is no surprise then that such a vital industry, is awash with announcements of new destinations, new planes, codeshares and sales. This week’s aviation round up, however begins with the…

Technology

Alternative Airlines signs with travel audience to connect with tourism boards and DMOs

Tian Tolentino Oct 2, 2018

Flight search website Alternative Airlines has signed with travel advertising platform travel audience to introduce the Destination Advertising Ecosystem.

Technology

Discover another story of Japan by JAL

Alastair Newport Aug 6, 2018

With tourists increasingly interested in authentic, local experiences; Japan Airlines (JAL) announced last week it would be updating its "Untold Stories of Japan" video platform, as well as…

OTAs & Tour Operators

Ctrip tracks record-breaking growth in Chinese outbound tourism

Simon Willmore Apr 9, 2018

Chinese tourists and their money have continued to go places in 2017, according to Ctrip and the China Tourism Academy (CTA). The leading OTA of the People's Republic of China and the…

Hotels

Hyatt’s first beach resort in Japan prepares to open – on its own island

Tian Tolentino Mar 20, 2018

The Hyatt Regency Seragaki Island Okinawa is the first Hyatt beach resort in Japan and it’s slated to open in August this year.

Japan

How Carnival’s new partnership will expand tourism in Japan and create Asian cruise hub

Alastair Newport Mar 15, 2018

This time last year, the Japanese government announced confirmation of their plans to improve and enhance the capabilities of six ports, in order to attract investment from cruise lines and…

Tourism

Agoda: top destinations for Asians during Chinese New Year 2018

Alastair Newport Feb 14, 2018

Tokyo has overtaken Bangkok as the number one Chinese New Year (CNY) destination for Asian travellers in 2018, a title held by Bangkok for the last two years, according to global online…

Hotels

Oakwood says ‘Ohayou’ to Osaka in summer 2018

Simon Willmore Feb 7, 2018

Oakwood Worldwide is slated to open Oakwood Hotel & Apartments Shin-Osaka, with Yasuko Sugiyama as its GM, on the summer of 2018.

Hotels

80 Stays Around the World: Trey Ratcliff tours Japan

Alastair Newport Oct 24, 2017 15

The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. has announced the next phase in the brand’s on going partnership with world-famous photographer Trey Ratcliff.

Consumer

Travelzoo uncovers the secret travel habits of Hong Kong

Alastair Newport Oct 19, 2017 27

Travelzoo, a global publisher of exclusive travel offers, has disclosed the travel preferences of Hong Kong travellers. The information is based upon data derived from their first half-year…

Cruise

Genting pens fly-cruise agreement with China Southern

Mark Elliott Jun 23, 2017

Genting Cruise Lines has formed a new partnership with China Southern Airlines aimed at developing fly-cruise opportunities in China and positioning Guangzhou as a major cruise hub.…

Airlines and Aviation

JAL offers free Wi-Fi on domestic flights

Mark Elliott Jun 21, 2017

Japan Airlines (JAL) has decided to offer complimentary in-flight Wi-Fi to passengers on its domestic routes. The national carrier first introduced Wi-Fi as a paid service in July 2014,…

Airlines and Aviation

China Airlines joins cartoon club

Mark Elliott Apr 20, 2017

China Airlines has become the latest Asian airline to unveil a cartoon-themed aircraft livery. The Taiwanese national carrier revealed its "Buddy Bears" paintwork, which will feature…

Hotels

Best Western targets “quality growth” across Asia

Mark Elliott Mar 16, 2017

Best Western is aiming to more than double its Asian inventory in the coming years, with the addition of multiple “high-quality” hotels, including many new-builds. At present, Best…

Airlines and Aviation

Jet boosts Asian connectivity with Hong Kong Airlines

Mark Elliott Feb 28, 2017

Jet Airways has formed a new partnership with Hong Kong Airlines aimed at enhancing connectivity between India and the Far East. The new codeshare partnership will lead to new…

Cruise

Japan targets cruise tourism with port upgrades

Mark Elliott Feb 1, 2017

The Japanese government has confirmed plans to upgrade the facilities at six of its ports, in an effort to take advantage of the Asian cruise boom. The Japan Times reported the…

Airlines and Aviation

Asian air route updates: Saudia, Vanilla Air and more

Mark Elliott Jan 17, 2017

Pakistan gets new pilgrimmage flights Where? Jeddah (Saudi Arabia) to Multan (Pakistan) When? Four times a week, effective 1 April 2017 Who? Saudi Arabian Airlines Why? Trade and…