Asia/Singapore Wednesday, 8th April 2026
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Etihad Airways supports Sri Lankan communities with education and welfare initiatives

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Etihad Airways has launched a series of community outreach initiatives in Sri Lanka as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) strategy. These initiatives focus on humanitarian aid, education, and community empowerment, aiming to create sustainable change in the communities it serves.

Etihad employees from various divisions, including airport services, network operations, e-commerce, financial reporting, operations, guest experience, and procurement, collaborated with a shared purpose, reflecting the airline’s core value of unity. Working alongside local engineering partners, they implemented these projects across Colombo and Kandy.

Etihad Airways employees and local partners celebrate a new community facility in Sri Lanka, demonstrating the airline’s commitment to CSR

As part of its humanitarian aid initiatives, Etihad supported St. Joseph’s Orphanage in Colombo, a home for abandoned children. The airline officially opened new dormitory, kitchen, and canteen facilities, improving the living conditions for the 500 children residing there. Etihad also provided essential items such as amenity bags, school supplies, blankets, and clothing to support the children’s needs and development.

In Kandy, Etihad supported Hendeniya School by renovating classrooms and creating an IT section. Future plans include developing a library and nursery to provide more educational opportunities.

Additionally, Etihad also supported Hendeniya Mosque in Kandy with infrastructure improvements, including a new women’s section, an Arabic studies learning centre, and an expanded prayer area that accommodates over 500 people.

Etihad Airways reaffirms its commitment to uniting communities and driving positive change through initiatives focused on humanitarian aid, education, and community empowerment. In line with the values of Ramadan, the airline has launched CSR efforts that reflect compassion, generosity, and community, continuing its support for underserved populations and making a positive impact.

Nadia Bastaki, chief people & corporate affairs officer at Etihad Airways, said: “With a firm belief that unity is a catalyst for meaningful progress, Etihad continues to foster collaboration, empower communities, and create a lasting impact wherever we operate.”

Ascott enhances loyalty programme to triple membership by 2028

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Ascott is celebrating the sixth anniversary of its loyalty programme, Ascott Star Rewards (ASR), with enhanced features designed to enrich the travel experience for its growing member base.

Tan Bee Leng, chief commercial officer of Ascott, shared that to achieve its goal of over 15 million members by 2028, Ascott is implementing major improvements to its mobile app and website, ensuring seamless integration of ASR into the digital experience.

Ascott refreshes user interface and boosts personalisation on ASR mobile app to enhance ease of use

Ascott’s web bookings have seen double-digit growth over the past three years. Moving forward, ASR will shift from traditional rewards to offering curated experiences and personalised features through its app and website, reflecting the strong growth and loyalty from its expanding member base.

Bookings through the ASR mobile app will soon be streamlined, reducing the number of steps by half. Starting in April, updates will include a new user interface, travel and stay recommendations, geolocation-based offers, and a landing page for quicker access to deals. The app will also enhance pre-to-post stay functions, such as pre-arrival check-in, self-check-out, multi-room reservation management, and access to in-room services.

Additionally, the ASR website, which drives direct bookings, now supports 11 languages and new payment options like WeChat and Alipay to cater to Ascott’s global reach.

Ascott will also harness AI to enhance the ASR programme and support the planning journey of its guests. By leveraging data-driven insights, Ascott’s new recommendation engine will use predictive AI to turn past data and preferences into personalised suggestions for ASR members, including travel destinations, brand experiences, and properties best suited to each guest.

This year, ASR is adding the French Open and the Bangkok edition of The Famous CFC with Gianfranco Zola to its Ascott Privilege Signatures series. These events reflect ASR’s focus on curated experiences and exclusive partnerships, including its 2024 partnership with Chelsea Football Club. ASR members have enjoyed unique experiences such as stadium tours, coaching sessions, Wimbledon, and local cultural explorations. With more partnerships to come, ASR will continue to offer sought-after opportunities for its members.

Ascott has also partnered with leading travel companies to offer ASR members exclusive experiences and the ability to earn points. Members can access over 1,700 airport lounges worldwide for 15,600 points and earn miles on qualifying stays through partnerships like KrisFlyer.

In celebration of ASR’s sixth anniversary, members can earn 24,000 bonus points and receive two complimentary airport lounge passes for bookings made between now and May 31, 2025. This offer is available for the first 300 bookings via the ASR app or website.

“In line with ASR’s brand promise to Stay Rewarded, we remain focused on deepening connections with our members to deliver them the best experiences while supporting the long-term profitability of Ascott’s business,” said Tan.

Discover the high seas aboard Star Navigator

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This summer, embark on an adventure with the reimagined StarCruises brand aboard the Star Navigator for a three-day, two-night high seas weekend cruise from Keelung to destinations in Japan and South Korea.

Themed Global Celebrations at Sea, this three-day, two-night high seas weekend cruise from Keelung offers an opportunity to explore global cultures without leaving the ship. The thematic cruises feature seasonal, cultural, and culinary showcases, with performances, workshops, and experiences. Guests can also enjoy BBQ Nights on Saturdays, featuring grilled foods from around the world, perfect for relaxing, socialising, and enjoying the sea.

Experience sailing on Star Navigator with the new two-night High Seas Weekend Cruise from Keelung

The Global Celebrations at Sea sets sail this April with a three-day, two-night cruise aboard the Star Navigator, showcasing Japan. Enjoy a culinary journey with sushi, sashimi, ramen, and tempura, and take part in activities such as Sakura Dances, a wagyu beef cooking demo, cherry blossom tea parties, and arts workshops. With experiences like ikebana, origami, and canvas painting, this voyage offers something for everyone.

In May, the three-day, two-night high seas weekend cruises will offer guests the chance to celebrate Korean culture and cuisine, indulging in dishes like bulgogi, bibimbap, kimchi, and tteokbokki. Guests can experience South Korea’s traditions and K-pop with drum performances, arts workshops, dance sessions, and hanbok fittings.

For more information, visit StarCruises.

Crystal Cruises sees room for growth in Asian cruise market

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While Cruise Line International Association’s data has shown global passenger numbers in 2023 surpassing that of 2019 – 31.7 million against 29.7 million – and projected numbers to reach 37.1 million in 2025, Crystal Cruises’ sales chief noted that the Asian market has yet to see full recovery.

Tony Archbold, vice president, sales, Asia with Crystal Cruises told TTG Asia: “Asia has not reached its full potential yet, where passengers have greater knowledge of cruising and are driving demand. Singapore and Hong Kong have the greatest potential to grow.”

Archbold: Asia has not reached its full potential yet

Archbold expressed confidence in grooming the region, stating that Crystal Cruises has an advantage from Asian consumers’ recognition of Abercrombie & Kent brands being the leading supplier of luxury experiences and “the best on land and sea”.

Crystal Cruises became part of the Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group in 2022.

Post-lockdown, Crystal Cruises ships have reduced passenger numbers onboard Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity by 30 per cent, capped at 606 and 740 respectively, to allow guests more space. There are also more venues for after-dinner entertainment. In addition to the piano bar, night club and show room, the cruise operator unveiled its Monte Carlo Casino, run by the famed Monaco-based establishment, at Christmas last year.

On the health and wellness front, the refurbished Aurora Spa on Crystal Symphony offers 10 treatment rooms and 12 on Crystal Serenity, where the popular, non-surgical Thermage Treatment procedure is conducted. Additionally, a nutritionist oversees the onboard menu and guest speakers conduct wellness talks.

The famed Nobu restaurant concept, specifically Umi Uma by chef Nobu Matsuhisa, is currently available exclusively at sea, on Crystal Cruises ships.

Across the board, Archbold noted that high-net-worth individuals are looking for a sense of adventure and engagement with a destination, combined with culinary experiences, and are travelling farther and sailing for longer.

He shared that the Crystal Symphony which recently departed Sri Lanka for Africa was heading to Cape Town, Mombassa and Mali before retuning to Asia.

“Europe is booming for Asia and is the number one destination. Pre-pandemic, the duration used to be between seven and 10 days. Now it is up to between 14 and 18, 19 days,” he said.

Bookings from Asia have emerged for Crystal Cruises’ 140-day World Cruise and 40- to 60-day Grand Cruise.

“Passengers are also younger, in their late-40s, early-50s, and many can be mobile and continue doing business with Starlink internet offering high-speed, reliable connectivity at sea.”

According to consultants, Asian guests are sticking with Crystal Cruises and taking up repeat journeys. Therefore, Archbold said it was crucial for luxury consultants to match guests with the right product.

Looking ahead, the cruise line will welcome two new ships soon – one to launch in spring 2028 and the other tentatively scheduled for 2030, with an option for a third by 2032.

TEQ welcomes new CEO

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Craig Davidson is the new CEO of Tourism and Events Queensland (TEQ).

With a 35-year career in hotels, resorts, attractions, and nature-based experiences, Davidson has worked with Southern Pacific Hotel Corporation, Hamilton Island, Voyages Hotels and Resorts, Ardent Leisure Theme Parks, and Journey Beyond.

He has also led Tourism Australia’s Investment Attraction, Aviation Development, and Industry Development team, including Indigenous tourism products, and served on various boards, including six years as a director at Destination Gold Coast.

He brings deep local tourism knowledge combined with extensive national experience. Above all, as a Queenslander, he is passionate about the success of the tourism industry in his home state.

Gregory Tan leads as CEO of SATS-Creuers Cruise Services

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SATS-Creuers Cruise Services (SCCS), the terminal operator of Marina Bay Cruise Centre Singapore (MBCCS), has appointed Gregory Tan as its new CEO. He will oversee the company’s direction, growth, and the daily operations of MBCCS.

Tan was previously SCCS’ chief operating officer and has 15 years of experience in tourism management. With extensive knowledge in aviation ground handling, he has a proven track record of strengthening relationships with key airline clients such as Singapore Airlines, Qantas, and Lufthansa.

Sri Lanka rolls out campaign highlighting its year-round appeal

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Sri Lanka has launched a new campaign, Sri Lanka, A Story for Every Season to promote the country as a year-round destination rather than one for the winter season, with content spotlighting wildlife safaris, cultural heritage, spiritual pilgrimage sites, scenic landscapes, and adventure tourism.

The campaign relies on digital storytelling and influencer collaboration, where influencers will produce high-impact content for platforms like Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook, reaching over 2.2 million travel enthusiasts globally.

An Indian influencer speaking at the event

The campaign kicked off on March 27 in Colombo, with 12 travel influencers from India, the UK, Hong Kong, Australia, and Portugal, along with their families, in attendance. They were hosted by tourism authorities.

Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau chairman Buddhika Hewawasam, speaking at the event, pointed out the challenges facing the tourism sector, particularly the seasonal dip in arrivals during the summer months.

“The next few years will be the most challenging period for all of us,” he said, emphasising the need for international collaboration and strategic development. He also mentioned the critical role of international travel influencers in raising awareness of Sri Lanka’s hospitality and inspiring tourists worldwide to visit.

During the event, the travel influencers shared their thoughts on Sri Lanka’s uniqueness as a destination. They noted that Sri Lanka is a country where travellers need not worry about finding incredible experiences, as nature has already done the hard work.

The campaign aims to secure an equivalent of US$110,000 in media coverage and engage with a wide range of travel segments.

Ponant Explorations partners with STIC Travel Group in India

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Ponant Explorations Group is entering into an exclusive partnership with STIC Travel Group, strengthening Ponant’s presence in the Indian market and ensuring seamless support for travellers and trade partners through STIC’s dedicated Ponant team.

As part of this strategic alliance, STIC Travel Group has established a dedicated Ponant team to provide expert guidance, reservations, and personalised services for Indian travellers looking to embark on unforgettable voyages with Ponant.

The collaboration will expand Ponant’s presence in India, offering exclusive access to luxury expedition experiences for Indian travellers

STIC Travel Group will offer Indian travel professionals and luxury travellers exclusive access to Ponant’s expedition experiences. From intimate yacht-style voyages to immersive polar and tropical expeditions, Ponant’s fleet of sustainably designed ships provides unparalleled access to some of the world’s most remote and breath-taking destinations.

“We are delighted to join forces with STIC Travel Group, a company that shares our commitment to delivering exceptional travel experiences,” said Julie Rogers, Ponant director of sales, Asia Pacific. “India represents an exciting and growing market for luxury expedition travel, and with STIC’s nationwide network and expertise, we are confident in expanding Ponant’s footprint in the region.”

StarCruises, Dream Cruises relaunch with maiden voyage of Star Voyager

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Star Voyager, the latest ship to homeport in Singapore, embarked on its maiden voyage on March 26, heralding the revival of the StarCruises and Dream Cruises brands, and a new chapter for the former Star Cruises, a brand with over 30 years of history in the region.

The vessel, with a capacity of 1,940 passengers, will offer a new cruising experience tailored for the Asian market, travelling to Malacca and Jakarta before returning to Singapore.

Star Voyager’s maiden voyage on March 26 marks the return of StarCruises and Dream Cruises to Singapore

Positioned as an affordable, lifestyle-driven cruise experience, StarCruises will operate mid-sized ships, including the Star Voyager and Star Navigator, catering to travellers seeking comfort, entertainment, and adventure at sea.

Dream Cruises offers a more luxurious experience with exclusive privileges and premium amenities on larger ships, including its flagship, Genting Dream, which accommodates over 3,000 guests.

“By clearly differentiating between StarCruises and Dream Cruises, we are able to cater to distinct segments while reinforcing our leadership in the Asian cruise industry and beyond,” said Michael Goh, president, StarCruises and Dream Cruises. “This is an exciting milestone for StarCruises and we are honoured to play a key role in supporting and contributing towards the growth of Singapore’s inbound and outbound cruise travel.”

The Star Voyager will offer three-, four- and five-night cruises connecting Singapore to dual homeport cities of Jakarta, Malacca, Bangkok and Ho Chi Minh City – further increasing inbound tourists to these destinations – as well as to other destinations such as Medan, Koh Samui, and Redang island.

A total of US$50 million was invested in refurbishing areas such as the lobby, restaurants, and Palace class suites. The entertainment programme and activities were also carefully planned to cater to multigenerational travellers, including a teens club with activities designed by the ship’s youngest crew to appeal to teenagers.

“We are strong believers in providing good experiences,” said Goh, adding that happy customers make for the strongest ambassadors of the brand.

Colin Kerr, senior vice-president of Cruise Entertainment, echoed this sentiment, noting that some guests are so invested in the product that their feedback has been taken into consideration.

The MICE segment, which contributes to 30 per cent of the business, is also another segment the company plans to continue growing.

StarCruises has plans to offer fly-cruise options to Australia and is exploring the Indian market as well.

Star Voyager will homeport at the Singapore Cruise Centre until July 21.

Aviation roundup: Etihad Airways, Vietjet and more

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Etihad Airways

Etihad now flies to Medan, Indonesia
Etihad Airways will begin flights to Medan, the gateway to Northern Sumatra, starting October 2 this year.

The airline will operate flights between Kualanamu International Airport in Medan and Zayed International Airport in Abu Dhabi three times a week, using one of its new A321LR aircraft.

Korean Air will upgrade and expand its lounges at Incheon International Airport Terminal 2

Korean Air to upgrade airport lounges, introduces premium economy
Korean Air is upgrading its airport lounges and introducing Premium Economy cabins as part of its service enhancements. The airline will expand and renovate its lounges at Incheon International Airport Terminal 2 to accommodate increased passenger traffic following the airport’s Phase 4 expansion and the relocation of Asiana Airlines.

Four lounges will open in phases from August 2025, including an expanded Prestige Class Lounge in the east wing and Miler Club Lounge. Renovations to the First Class and Prestige Class Lounges in the west wing will be completed by April 2026.

Once all upgrades are finished, Korean Air will operate six lounges, increasing space and seating capacity. The First Class Lounge will be redesigned with features inspired by luxury hotel lounges.

Food and beverage services will include live kitchens, on-site bartenders and baristas, dedicated bakeries, and a signature noodle bar offering freshly prepared dishes.

Korean Air will also renovate its lounges at Los Angeles and New York JFK airports and update its mobile app to provide real-time information on lounge details.

Additionally, 11 Boeing 777-300ER aircraft will be retrofitted to include Premium Economy seating, replacing First Class cabins. The first retrofitted aircraft will enter service in late 2025, with further upgrades continuing through 2026.

Vietjet launches flights between Ho Chi Minh City and Bengaluru

Vietjet strengthens global reach from Ho Chi Minh City hub
Vietjet has launched four new international routes – two connecting Ho Chi Minh City to Hyderabad and Bengaluru in India, and two linking Ho Chi Minh City to Nagoya and Fukuoka in Japan.

The Hyderabad and Bengaluru services are already in operation, while the Nagoya and Fukuoka routes will start on April 24 and April 25, respectively.

These additions expand Vietjet’s international network to 10 new services in two months, strengthening ties between Vietnam, India, and Japan.

Emirates

Emirates adds seven more destinations to A350 route network
Emirates has unveiled seven new cities to be added to its A350 network, as the airline’s latest aircraft begin scheduled service.

This expansion will extend the A350’s reach to short and medium-haul destinations in the Middle East/GCC and Europe, while also marking the aircraft’s debut in Africa and South-east Asia.

Emirates will operate the A350 to Tunis six times weekly from June 1, Amman daily from June 1, and Istanbul daily from July 1. The A350 will debut in Saudi Arabia on Dammam services from July 1, in South-east Asia to Ho Chi Minh City from August 1, and to Baghdad three times weekly from August 3. The A350 will debut in Oslo from September 1, with more A350 destinations, including longhaul routes, to be announced in the coming months as new aircraft join Emirates’ fleet.

Emirates will expand A350 services to Bahrain and Kuwait, with Bahrain receiving a third daily A350 flight from June 1 and Kuwait adding a second A350 flight from October 1. Bologna will also get its first A350 on June 1, ahead of schedule.

The A350 offers three cabin classes: 32 Business Class lie-flat seats, 21 Premium Economy seats, and 259 Economy Class seats.