Philippine Airlines to launch Manila-Seattle route in October
Philippine Airlines (PAL) will launch non-stop flights between Manila and Seattle starting October 2.
The Manila-Seattle-Manila services will initially operate three times weekly, every Wednesday, Friday and Sunday, with departures at 22.40 (local time) from Manila’s Terminal 1, and at 23.40 (local time) from Seattle Tacoma International Airport.
The Philippine carrier will deploy Boeing 777-300ER aircraft to perform the Seattle services, with full-flat seats in Business Class.
The flights from Philippines will provide convenient connectivity to various US mainland cities, including Chicago, Houston, Las Vegas and Washington DC via PAL’s airline partners. Likewise, travellers from the US will be able to get connecting flights via Manila to PAL’s domestic and regional international network, including cities such as Cebu, Davao, Bangkok, Singapore, Hong Kong and Kuala Lumpur.
Saudi Arabia gains more interest among Indonesians
Traditionally regarded as Umrah and Hajj destination, Saudi Arabia is picking up in popularity as a leisure destination among Indonesian travellers who are seeking experiential travel, observed Indonesia’s outbound players.
Yento Chen, CEO, Destination Tour Indonesia, has seen demand for Saudi Arabia rising over the past year, including from non-Muslim travellers, who are keen to explore new destinations. He shared that most clients are “curious and excited to see things” that they have heard about Saudi Arabia, such as tales like living in the desert and 1,001 Nights.
Destination Tour Indonesia has sent its first Indonesian group of 15 pax to the kingdom last February, with group bookings up to the end of the year.
The six-day itinerary includes attractions such as Shubra Palace, Arrudaf Park, Old Town Jeddah, Harrat Viewpoint, Elephant Rock, and Al Masmak Fort – there are also plans to expand the programme to include the Red Sea and more off-the-beaten-path destinations for 2025.
Seeing the positive trend, Yento is confident that Saudi Arabia will be a hot destination for 2025, especially when “the development of tourism products, most of which are premium, are completed”, he added.
Likewise, Ricky Hilton, spokesperson at Golden Rama Tours & Travel, perceives Saudi Arabia as a new destination with huge tourism potential, having received several queries from priority customers who favoured experiential travel.
He shared: “Travellers in these markets are drawn by the exotic allure of Saudi Arabia as well as the luxury hotel chains that have flagged their brands there.”
This growing trend has prompted Golden Rama Tours & Travel to create new packages for sporting holidays, such as golf, and soft adventure activities like trekking, paragliding and horse riding.
The development of Soudah Peaks, a luxury mountain destination, and Sheybarah Islands are some attractions that can fulfil his clients’ preference for luxury and hidden gems, stated Ricky, adding that the four-day free visa facility for transit in Saudi will also help agents to develop more business.
“We can create a Europe plus Saudi package – this could be a favourite tour because it gives clients more choices of attractions and experiences,” he noted.
Aviatour’s director Jeffry Darjanto, however, opined that although Saudi Arabia is becoming a hot topic among the premium market, more information about the country as a tourist destination was still needed. Many queries persist on what attractions were available beyond Mecca and Madinah.
Jeffry also called for a closer collaboration between the NTO office in Jakarta and Indonesian outbound travel companies.
In the meantime, Pauline Suharno, managing director of Elok Tour, hopes that Saudi Tourism Authority will promote the destination through roadshows, travel marts or travel fairs to raise awareness on tourist spots.
She also pointed out the need for the Saudi Arabian government and tourism business stakeholders to train Indonesian travel agents to better understand the country’s tourism sector, including its attractions and offerings, so that they would be well-equipped to push Saudi Arabia’s tourism products to prospective travellers, especially to non-Muslim travellers.
Royal Caribbean partners Make-A-Wish foundation
Royal Caribbean International (RCI) and Make-A-Wish are joining forces to support the latter’s mission of creating life-changing wishes for many kids around the world with critical illnesses.
RCI’s Wishes at Sea programme aims to contribute to the non-profit organisation’s efforts with both fundraising and in-kind donations of Royal Caribbean’s most impactful asset – memorable family experiences.
In addition to making donations online, adventurers will soon be able to raise awareness and funds while enjoying their vacations across the cruise line’s ships and private destinations. The line-up of efforts will vary from Walk for Wishes 5Ks and walkathons to auctions for exclusive experiences and more.
Every wish will come to life with a bigger, bolder Royal Caribbean getaway that is specially planned for wish kids and their families. The adventures in store will be packed with everything from the ultimate experience at the cruise line’s top-rated private destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay, that includes access to the waterpark in the Caribbean and The Bahamas, a private cabana and a high-flying experience on the Up, Up & Away helium balloon. Plus, VIP treatment from start to finish, with exclusive experiences, complimentary Wi-Fi, private FlowRider sessions, and more.
“The memories we make with our families and friends on vacation are among the moments that are the most special and impactful, and for wish kids and their families, that very impact can change the course of their lives,” said Michael Bayley, president and CEO, RCI. “In this partnership, we are in a position to do what we love – delivering memorable vacations – while making a difference in the lives of those at the heart of Royal Caribbean, families, that need it most.”
“As we celebrate World Wish Month, we are grateful to partner with Royal Caribbean International and open a sea of new opportunities for us to fulfil our mission of granting life-changing wishes,” said Leslie Motter, president and CEO of Make-A-Wish America. “We know that a wish can chart a new course in these children’s lives, and we look forward to having the opportunity to work together to deliver that life-changing impact.”
Marriott International debuts The Westin brand in Penang
Marriott International has signed with Westfield Global to bring The Westin brand to the island of Penang, marking its fourth Westin in Malaysia.
Slated to open in 2026, The Westin Hotel, Penang will boast 217 rooms and suites, offering guests sweeping views of greenery and the Andaman Sea.
Onsite facilities will comprise all-day dining and speciality restaurants, lobby lounge, pool bar, outdoor swimming pool, fitness centre, spa, kids’ club and event venues, including a grand ballroom.
The property overlooks the newly opened Gurney Bay Park, a seafront public recreational space including a skate park and retail areas, and is nearby Gurney Drive’s popular attractions of local street food, with Gurney Drive Hawker Centre and popular shopping malls of Gurney Plaza and Gurney Paragon.
Just a few minutes’ drive from the UNESCO World Heritage Site of George Town, the hotel is also close to other popular Penang attractions including Kek Lok Si Temple and Batu Ferringhi, known for its beach and water activities, with Penang International Airport a 30-minute drive away.
“We are delighted to bring the beloved Westin brand to the celebrated destination of Penang and be a part of the island’s offering for both leisure and business travellers. We are confident that The Westin Hotel, Penang will exceed expectations in offering both leisure and business travellers a thoroughly fresh, yet familiar and certainly enjoyable stay in Penang,” said Andree Susilo, senior director – development, Asia Pacific excluding China, Marriott International.
Yeoh Yih Sean, group managing director, Westfield Global, added: “This partnership is a significant step towards advancing Penang’s tourism sector and this underscores our goal of providing a world-class wellness hospitality experience which enhances the reputation of Penang as a global travel destination.”
Sri Lanka’s national carrier to lease more aircraft
SriLankan Airlines will soon receive four A330 aircraft under a leasing arrangement with two suppliers from Ireland, ORIX Aviation and Aergo Capital, a government minister told reporters on Tuesday.
“Under these contracts, ORIX Aviation will provide two aircraft on a monthly lease of US$360,000 for six years, while Aergo Capital will lease two aircraft on a monthly fee of US$365,000 for eight years,” minister and cabinet spokesman Bandula Gunawardene said, after cabinet approval was given to the move.
In mid-February, SriLankan Airlines chairman Ashok Pathirage said the airline has contracted for three A320s, one of which has already been received. Additionally, the airline has received offers for six A330s and hopes of finalising these acquisitions by the end of the year.
The fleet expansion of the national carrier is of vital importance to the airline as the current fleet consists of 17 aircraft, of which three are grounded.
The government is seeking an investor for the cash-strapped airline, though running at an operating profit is saddled with a huge debt which the authorities hope to absorb once a foreign investor enters the scene.
The airline chief has said they were managing the number of destinations they operate by reducing some of it due to a shortage of aircraft – these routes will be restored once the new aircraft arrive.
He said the national carrier stopped its services to Muscat, Oman and will be suspending its services to Beijing, China from this week. The airline operates to 126 destinations in 61 countries (including codeshare operations).
Meanwhile, a pilot project of visa-free entry for travellers from seven countries which was introduced in October/November last year and due to end in March 2024 has been extended to April 30, stated tourism minister Harin Fernando. He said a final decision on the pilot project and whether to make it a permanent feature would be taken into consideration in the coming weeks.
Visa-free entry is available to travellers from key generating markets, such as India, China, Russia, Malaysia, Japan, Indonesia, and Thailand.
Celebrate Songkran with Marriott Bonvoy
Marriott Bonvoy’s hotels and resorts have revealed a series of exclusive dining offers, activities and value-added benefits for travellers who book premium rooms, suites and villas under the Stay Elevated, Stay Elite campaign during Songkran, the iconic Thai New Year water festival.
In Bangkok, the Maha Songkran World Water Festival extravaganza will take place from April 11 to 15 with celebrations and parades across the city. Moxy Bangkok Ratchaprasong will have a special F&B offer while Courtyard by Marriott Bangkok’s Mahachai Coconut Ice Cream promotion at MoMo Café will sweeten up the festivities from April 12 to 16.
Le Méridien Bangkok sets the scene for fun-filled festivities with an outdoor Songkran Party, mini foam party and a choice of Thai delights (April 13-15); The Athenee Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Bangkok will serve up Khao Chae while The St Regis Bangkok will treat diners to a six-course Discovery set menu at VIU (April 12-15).
Guests who stay at Chiang Mai Marriott Hotel can enjoy auspicious Song Nam Phra activities at 11 temples across the city from throughout April, plus the lively Water War in Chiang Mai on April 13. Alternatively, at Le Méridien Chiang Rai Resort, travellers can discover the Paweni Pi Mai in Chiang Rai, or head to the banks of the Mekong River for the Chiang Saen Songkran Festival.
In Phuket, highlights include The Patong Festival on the Beach, with cultural traditions of Songkran being embraced in Phuket’s Old Town – accommodation options here are Four Points by Sheraton Phuket Patong Beach Resort, Courtyard by Marriott Phuket, Patong Beach Resort and Courtyard by Marriott Phuket Town.
Families and friends who want to escape the city can enjoy Songkran by the sea can check out beachfront properties like Sheraton Hua Hin Resort & Spa, Rayong Marriott Resort & Spa, W Samui and Vana Belle, A Luxury Collection Resort, Koh Samui.
To enjoy the festivities for longer, travellers can head to Pattaya and stay at Courtyard by Marriott North Pattaya or Renaissance Pattaya Resort & Spa.
For more information, visit Marriott Bonvoy.
New hotels: Five Luxe, Amora Brisbane and more
Five Luxe, the UAE
With vistas of the Arabian Gulf and landmarks, Ain Dubai and Palm Jumeirah, the newly-opened Five Luxe in Dubai features 222 hotel rooms and suites, alongside 276 lavish residences for celebrations.
The hotel offers facilities like restaurants, bars, swimming pool, spa and gym.
For poolside social gatherings, the property has pool party rooms ranging from one to four bedrooms, each with its own private pool – there are also wellness suites such as the Ultimate Spa Suite with XL Pool which boasts its own spa, hot tub, sauna, and steam room.
Amora Brisbane, Australia
Amora Brisbane offers 296 keys and features a restaurant, lobby bar, café, outdoor pool and deck, fitness studio, sauna, and 11 refurbished conference and events spaces spanning 1,148m².
Located in the prime CBD area, Amora Brisbane is a short stroll from Central Railway Station, The Queen St Mall, Treasury Casino and Suncorp Stadium. It is also a five-minute drive to the entertainment precincts of Howard Smith Wharves and Fortitude Valley, and 15 minutes by car to the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre.
Sheraton Jakarta Soekarno Hatta Airport, Indonesia
The 227-room Sheraton Jakarta Soekarno Hatta Airport offers facilities such as restaurants, bars, three swimming pools, fitness centre, social workspace, ballroom, and six meeting rooms.
Situated within the vicinity of Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, the hotel is a five-minute drive from Cengkareng Golf Club and Soewarna Business Park, and 30 minutes away from Pantai Indah Kapuk, the hub of entertainment, leisure, shopping and culinary experiences.
Hilton Saigon, Vietnam
Hilton Saigon is nestled in the vibrant financial and residential hub of Ho Chi Minh City, and features 228 guestrooms and suites with views of the Saigon River.
The hotel also has restaurants, a spa, pool, fitness centre, lounge, and F&B options. For events, there is a pillar-less ballroom and meeting rooms available.
Just 30 minutes away from the Tan Son Nhat Airport, the hotel is surrounded by cultural and historical landmarks such as the Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral, the Saigon Central Post Office, and the Saigon Opera House, all within walking distance from the hotel.
The Calile Hotel welcomes new GM
Chris Kemlo has been appointed as general manager of The Calile Hotel in Brisbane.
In his new role, Kemlo will be taking a guest approach, people approach and a business approach to further enhance the guest experience at The Calile.
With more than 18 years’ experience in the industry, he previously held leadership positions with Crown Resorts in Melbourne and, more recently, with Crown Towers Sydney.
David Roberts joins Fusion Hotel Group as COO
Fusion Hotel Group has named David Roberts as its new chief operating officer.
With 20 years’ experience in the Asian hospitality sector, Roberts joins the Vietnam-based team at Fusion from his previous base in Thailand where he worked as vice-president at Onyx Hospitality Group for nine years.
IHG Hotels & Resorts has partnered with Gravity Asset Management’s Seoul South Gate Hotel Operations Company and Hotel HDC Co. to sign the new voco Seoul Myeongdong in South Korea.
The 576-room property will be rebranded as voco and will be IHG’s second voco property in South Korea, following the successful brand debut of voco Seoul Gangnam in 2022.
Situated at the heart of Seoul’s vibrant district of Myeongdong, voco Seoul Myeongdong is in close proximity to the business district and provides convenient access to attractions such as Deoksugung Palace, City Hall, Myeongdong shopping street and Namdaemun Market.
Less than an hour’s drive from Incheon International Airport, the hotel will feature an all-day dining restaurant, lounge, indoor swimming pool, fitness centre, business centre, and meeting spaces.
“With the increasing demand for upscale hotels in the country, we look forward to bringing voco’s distinctive lifestyle experience to a growing number of domestic and international travellers, and introducing more IHG brands, including Kimpton and Hotel Indigo, to the market,” shared James Oh, Korea representative, IHG Hotels & Resorts.
Il Moon, managing director, Hotel HDC, said: “We’re looking forward to leveraging IHG’s global scale, expertise, and stellar reputation in the industry to bring success to voco Seoul Myeongdong, and are excited to embark on this journey together, which we hope will be the first of many collaborations.”