Wednesday, May 20, 2026
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ATIA warns travellers to verify agency accreditation

SYDNEY, 20 May 2026: The Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA) urges Australian travellers to check that their travel agent or tour operator holds current ATIA Accreditation, following issues with Melbourne-based tour operator AVG Travels (formerly Asia Vacation Group, ABN: 74 608 656 800).

ATIA cancelled AVG’s accreditation on 22 August 2022 after the company failed to meet the financial and ethical standards required to remain in the scheme. AVG continued to trade and sell tour packages after that date without ATIA Accreditation.

Photo credit: ATIA.

ATIA’s accreditation scheme sets the highest standards in the Australian travel industry. Last year, 22% of accreditation applications were rejected for failing to meet those standards. Accredited businesses are subject to ongoing monitoring, and accreditation is cancelled where standards are not met.

A public register of all cancelled and withdrawn accreditations is available at afta.com.au/Accreditation/Cancelled-Withdrawn-ATAS-Participants

Customers of ATIA Accredited businesses also have access to a formal complaints and dispute resolution process, giving them an independent avenue to resolve issues if something goes wrong.

ATIA is progressing a proposed merger with the Council of Australian Tour Operators (CATO). A key goal of that merger is to combine the strengths of both accreditation schemes into a stronger framework for businesses and consumers.

Travellers can check whether a business holds current ATIA Accreditation at Find ATIA Accredited Travel Agents & Tour Operators

ATIA CEO Dean Long commented in the press statement: “The message to consumers is clear — always check that ATIA accredits your travel agent or tour operator. We had a 22% rejection rate of applications last year. We take pride in the people that we removed from the scheme for not meeting our standards.”

“ATIA Accreditation is the highest benchmark in the travel industry. It comes with an excellent consumer complaint processing process, which means even if something goes wrong, you have an independent umpire to help you settle any disputes.

“One of the reasons why we have been working so hard on the details of the proposed merger with CATO is to bring the best of both accreditation schemes together. This situation underscores exactly why that work matters.”

About ATIA (www.atia.travel)
The Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA) is the peak body representing Australia’s AUD69 billion travel industry. ATIA represents the majority of Australian travel agents, corporate agents, tour operators, wholesalers and ITOs.

(Source: ATIA)

Brand USA expands America the Beautiful platform

SINGAPORE 20 May 2026: Brand USA President and CEO Fred Dixon this week announced a major expansion of the organisation’s America the Beautiful brand platform. 

Two new supporting initiatives expand the organisation’s messaging: Get Facts Get Going, an always-on effort designed to provide real-time information on visa and entry policies, fees, and more to combat misperceptions; and American Originals, a new content and storytelling series spotlighting the people, places, and experiences that are distinctly American.

Photo credit: Brand USA. GetFactsGetGoing.

The new initiatives being announced this week at the US Travel Association’s IPW in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, targeting leisure tourism, and at IMEX in Frankfurt, Germany, targeting international business events, reflect the organisation’s focus on growing international travel demand and boosting travel exports that impact the US economy and communities. The announcement comes as the US is readying to host significant major events beginning next month, including the FIFA World Cup, America’s 250th anniversary, and the Route 66 Centennial.

“In line with our mission to impact the US economy through travel exports, we have an opportunity to build traveller confidence further and inspire visitation,” said Brand USA’s President and CEO, Fred Dixon. “With our expanded platform, we are introducing American Originals, which spotlights the people and places who originated the styles, sounds, and tastes the world loves, while Get Facts Get Going serves as a single source of information to address misperceptions head-on. We want international visitors to know that we are open for business and warmly welcome them.”

Since its global launch last October, America the Beautiful has served as Brand USA’s flagship campaign and platform, inspiring international audiences. Monthly surveys show more than seven in ten respondents say the campaign positively influences their interest in visiting the US.

Brand USA is now building on that foundation with two new initiatives, each serving a distinct and equally important role. America the Beautiful inspires. American Originals fuels consideration, and Get Facts Get Going aids conversion by dispelling perceived logistical barriers.

Operating under a single data-driven and strategic framework, Brand USA has also created new integration opportunities with its destination partners, such as South Dakota and Alabama, and with corporate brands such as Hilton, with more to come. New integrations are designed to expand reach, improve target efficiency, and increase visibility for the platform and partners.

Get Facts Get Going

The expansion tackles misperceptions about visa requirements, entry procedures, fees, visa integrity, national park pricing, and screening policies. It has created confusion among some international travellers — until now, no single easy-to-use resource has brought this information together in one place. 

Get Facts Get Going is built to be always on, and continually updated as an integrated marketing, communications, and trade effort reaching international audiences through paid media in key global markets; real-time content delivered through global distribution systems; direct travel trade engagement through Brand USA’s agent training USA Discovery Program; and testimonials through the organisation’s Visiting Journalists Programme.

As an extension of these efforts, Brand USA has an ongoing partnership with US Customs and Border Protection to facilitate and expand global entry sign-ups in international markets. CBP representatives will be on-site at IPW this week at Brand USA’s booth to help answer questions and provide updates on trusted traveller programmes.

(Source: Brand USA)

PATA confirms board members at its AGM

BANGKOK, 20 May 2026: The Pacific Asia Travel Association has confirmed the ratification of newly elected Board members at the close of the PATA Annual General Meeting held last week in Gyeongju, Korea (ROK).

The newly elected Board members will serve alongside the association’s ongoing Board members, further strengthening PATA’s collective expertise and representation across the travel and tourism industry, including the public and private sectors, academia, chapters, and youth representatives from across the Asia Pacific region and beyond.

Welcoming the newly elected PATA Board members at the PATA Annual General Meeting during the PATA Annual Summit 2026 in Gyeongju, Korea (ROK). 

From left to right, Fabrizio Orlando, Global Industry Relations Director, TripAdvisor; Thomas Wan, Chairman, PATA Hong Kong School of Hotel & Tourism Management (SHTM) Student Chapter; Shuichi Kameyama, Lead Consultant, JTB Tourism Research & Consulting Co; Jonathan Low, Managing Director, Global Success Learning Academy Sdn Bhd; Dr Duangthida Nunthapirat, Dean, International Programs, Bangkok University; Henry Oh, Chairman, PATA; Noor Ahmad Hamid, CEO, PATA; Dr Paithoon Monpanthong, GSTM Programme Director, Graduate School of Tourism Management, National Institute of Development Administration; Justin Ong, Regional Manager, APAC; Hotelbeds Pte Ltd; Dmitri Cooray, Managing Director, Jetwing Hotels Ltd, and Kamilia Hani Abdul Halim, Director, Tourism Malaysia Seoul, representing Datuk Musa Yusof, Deputy Director General (Promotion), Tourism Malaysia.

The announcement follows the unveiling of PATA’s new Chair and Executive Board line-up earlier during the Summit.

“PATA’s strength lies in the diversity, experience, and commitment of its members,” said PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid. “We are pleased to welcome these newly elected Board members and look forward to working together as we continue to advance a more responsible, inclusive, and resilient tourism industry.”

Newly elected PATA board members

Bangkok University, represented by Duangthida Nunthapirat, Dean, International Programmes

Crescentrating Pte Ltd, represented by Fazal Bahardeen, CEO

Global Success Learning Academy Sdn Bhd, represented by Jonathan Low, Managing Director

Global Tourism Economy Research Centre, represented by Mr Jason Wang, Chief Operating Officer

Graduate School of Tourism Management, National Institute of Development Administration, represented by Dr Paithoon Monpanthong, GSTM Programmes Director

Hotelbeds Pte Ltd, represented by Mr Justin Ong, Regional Manager, APAC

Intrepid Travel, represented by Mike Stewart, Regional General Manager SEA

Jetwing Hotels Ltd, represented by Dmitri Cooray, Managing Director

PATA Face of the Future 2025, Yeji Cho, Assistant Manager, Korea Tourism Organisation

PATA Hong Kong School of Hotel & Tourism Management (SHTM) Student Chapter, represented by Thomas Wan, Chairman

PATA Nepal Chapter, represented by Khem Lakai, Chairman

Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), represented by Dr Supawan Teerarat, President

Tourism Malaysia, represented by Datuk Musa Yusof, Deputy Director General (Promotion)

TripAdvisor, represented by Fabrizio Orlando, Global Industry Relations Director

Wakayama University, represented by Dr Kumi Kato, Professor

Ongoing PATA Board Members

The newly elected members will join the following ongoing Board members:

Booking.com B.V., represented by Yang Li, Head of Public Affairs, APAC

Cinnamon Hotels and Resorts, represented by Dileep Mudadeniya, Senior Vice President Global Alliances & Partnerships

Dusit Thani College, represented by Simon Lloyd, Dean – Hospitality Management and Business Administration

Guilin Tang Dynasty Tours Co Ltd, represented by Michael Zhou, President

Hong Kong Tourism Board, represented by Anthony Lau, Executive Director

Korea Tourism Organisation, represented by Sunghyeuck Park, President

Macau International Airport Company Ltd, represented by Eric Fong, Marketing Director

Maldives Marketing & PR Corporation, represented by Ibrahim Shiuree, CEO and Managing Director

Pacific Leisure (Thailand) Ltd, represented by Watana Limnararat, Managing Director

PATA Hawaii Chapter, represented by Jennifer Chun, Chairperson

Sanya Tourism Board, represented by Hao Zhang, Vice Director

Saudi Tourism Authority, represented by Mr Alhasan Aldabbagh, President – APAC Market

Soaltee Hotel Limited, represented by Dinesh Bista, Executive Chairman

Taiwan Tourism Administration, represented by Yu-Hsiu Chen, Director-General

Tourism Authority of Thailand, represented by Thapanee Kiatphaibool, Governor

Venture Travel (Temple Tigers) Nepal, represented by Brajesh Mishra, Director

The Board plays a key role in guiding the association’s strategic direction and supporting its mission to share knowledge, enable networking, and protect tourism economy assets through innovation, collaboration, and adaptability.

(Source: PATA)

Back to school thanks to PATA

BANGKOK, 20 May 2026: The Pacific Asia Travel Association officially launches the PATA Micro-credentials Programme, a training and learning initiative that aims to empower tourism professionals in the Asia Pacific with practical, industry-driven skills.

Hosted on src.pata.org, the programme comprises short courses developed by two PATA members, EarthCheck and The Sigmund Project, with self-paced learning and content focused on relevant tourism knowledge. The target group are entry-level to senior professionals, Entrepreneurs and SMEs, and government and tourism organisations.

PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid announces the launch of the Micro-credentials programme at PATA Annual Summit 2026 in Gyeongju, Korea (ROK).

Learners will also be awarded with digital certificates upon completion.

PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid said: “At PATA, one of our core aims has always been to support the industry through knowledge sharing and collaboration. Through this initiative, we hope to make practical learning more accessible and flexible, while drawing on the expertise and experiences of PATA’s global network. We believe that by sharing knowledge and learning from one another, we can help tourism stakeholders across the region grow, adapt, and move forward together.”

Initial courses available under the programme 

Integrating ESG into Tourism SMEs – EarthCheck
The course offers practical ESG strategies for small tourism businesses to build more sustainable operations and improve efficiency. Participants will learn simple, cost-effective actions that can deliver measurable environmental and social impact.

AI-Powered Marketing for Tourism Professionals – The Sigmund Project
The course offers practical applications of AI to create faster and smarter marketing campaigns, produce content, advertisements, and branding materials, and significantly reduce marketing time and production costs.

The courses are now accessible at src.pata.org/online-courses.

(Source: PATA)

Crystal teams up with Approach Guides

MELBOURNE, 20 May 2026: Crystal Cruises has confirmed a new collaboration with Approach Guides, launching an innovative suite of marketing technologies designed to help travel advisors more effectively promote Crystal voyages, engage clients and increase bookings.

At the heart of this new approach are “content experiences,” designed and ready-to-use digital marketing pages featuring Crystal’s itineraries, destinations, and exclusive offers. These pages can be instantly co-branded by advisors and shared across email and social channels. Each piece of content is paired with a personalised, co-branded Crystal website, enabling advisors to capture private leads directly and seamlessly convert interest into sales.

Photo credit Crystal Cruises.

To support adoption and maximise advisor success, Crystal is co-hosting a webinar for travel advisors on 28 May. The webinar will offer a live, hands-on demonstration of the platform, showing advisors how to co-brand content in real time, create their own marketing assets and begin sharing with clients immediately. 

Participants will hear directly from Crystal Cruises Sales Director – Cruise, Jacqui Tufala, and Approach Guides founder, Jennifer Raezer, on how this technology is designed to elevate advisor marketing while driving measurable results.

The platform is designed for simplicity and speed. Advisors can access Crystal’s marketing content, add their personal branding, and begin sharing with clients in minutes — eliminating the need for time-intensive content creation while ensuring a polished, high-end presentation consistent with the Crystal brand.

“We are so thrilled to be partnering with Approach Guides to provide our valued trade partners with cutting-edge technology that delivers both inspiration and immediacy. Working with Approach Guides provides our travel partners an elegant, intuitive way to market Crystal to their luxury clients, combining beautiful storytelling with powerful lead generation. It’s a meaningful step forward in how we support advisor success and help them grow their business,” said Crystal Cruises VP Sales and Partnerships, AU/NZ, Susan Haberle.

In addition, Crystal is offering agency-level integration options that allow host agencies to co-brand Crystal content directly from their intranet systems. This ensures advisors can access and distribute marketing materials within their existing workflows with minimal setup.

Travel advisors can explore the new platform and begin creating their own co-branded content by visiting: inspires.to/crystal. 

(Source: A&K Travel Group)

Qatar and PAL extend codeshare pact

DOHA, Qatar, 20 May 2026: Qatar Airways and Philippine Airlines are expanding their strategic partnership by enhancing the connectivity between their networks. Starting 1 June 2026, Philippine Airlines will place its (PR) code on Qatar Airways flights from Manila, Cebu, Clark, and Davao to Doha, and connect to over 20 major European cities, including Paris, Rome, and Frankfurt via Hamad International Airport.

Qatar Airways will place its QR code on Philippine Airlines’ domestic flights, enabling travellers arriving in Manila and Cebu to enjoy seamless connectivity to popular leisure destinations such as Caticlan and Puerto Princesa.

Complementing the codeshare expansion, Qatar Airways’ loyalty programme, Privilege Club, has partnered with Philippine Airlines’ Mabuhay Miles to extend loyalty benefits to members of both programmes. This marks Privilege Club’s 26th airline partnership and increases the loyalty programme’s footprint in Southeast Asia, delivering diverse opportunities for members to collect and spend Avios across Philippine Airlines’ global flight network. Privilege Club members can now collect and spend Avios on Philippine Airlines routes across Australasia, Southeast Asia, and the US, and access a wider range of cities within the Philippines, including Cebu, Clark, and Davao City.

Additionally, Philippine Airlines Mabuhay Miles members can also collect and spend miles when flying across Qatar Airways’ global network, including destinations across Africa and Europe. For Philippine Airlines, this latest loyalty partnership enhances its presence in the Middle East by expanding its network.

Avios can be spent on travel rewards, including flights with Qatar Airways, Oneworld, and partner airlines, award flights, and Qatar Airways upgrades, as well as direct bookings with Qatar Executive. Lifestyle benefits include packages with Qatar Airways Holidays, dining and shopping at Qatar Duty Free, and much more. Similarly, Mabuhay Miles members can enjoy a broad range of rewards across its lifestyle partners, spanning travel, retail, and dining experiences.

(Source: Qatar Airways)

IHG names GM for Halong Bay resort

HALONG, Vietnam, 20 May 2026: InterContinental Halong Bay Resort, a five-star beachside resort, has announced the appointment of Grant Thompson as its new General Manager. 

A hospitality expert with more than 35 years of experience across Asia Pacific, the Middle East and Africa, Thompson brings a global perspective and an exceptional track record to the hotel. 

Photo credit: IHG. InterContinental Halong Bay Resort

Previous managerial roles with luxury brands such as Sofitel, The Leading Hotels of the World (LHW), and Wanda Hotels & Resorts have shaped his leadership style, which is defined by clarity, operational strength, and a deep commitment to creating memorable moments. During his five-and-a-half-year spell with Wanda, he successfully opened six five-star hotels.

Having joined IHG Hotels & Resorts in 2018, he guided InterContinental Changsha to multiple awards before being appointed GM of InterContinental Beijing Beichen in 2023, where he achieved the highest guest-satisfaction ranking in the Greater China region and led the hotel to its highest KPI performance in 17 years. 

(Source: IHG Hotels & Resorts)

Lufthansa Allegris debuts in the Lion City

SINGAPORE, 20 May 2026: Lufthansa will introduce its Allegris experience on flights between Singapore and Munich effective this October, ushering in a new era of premium long-haul travel to Southeast Asia.

The deployment of Allegris underscores Lufthansa’s continued investment in the Singapore market and strengthens connectivity between Asia and Europe through its Munich hub. 

Photo credit: Lufthansa. First-class Allegris experience.

Customers travelling on the route will experience Lufthansa’s next-generation cabins across all travel classes, featuring enhanced comfort, greater privacy and a more personalised onboard experience.

First class presents spacious suites with floor-to-ceiling privacy walls and elevated dining experiences. 

Business class introduces a new suite concept with direct aisle access from every seat, customisable seating options and advanced technology features. 

Premium economy and economy class have also been redesigned with improved ergonomics, larger entertainment screens and increased convenience for long-haul travel.

“Singapore is one of Lufthansa’s most important gateways in Asia Pacific, and we are delighted to bring our award-winning Allegris experience to this important market,” said Lufthansa Senior Director of Sales Southeast Asia and Pacific, Brendan Shashoua. “The introduction of Allegris reflects our commitment to delivering a world-class premium travel experience while strengthening connectivity between Singapore and Europe.”

Complementing Allegris, guests will also enjoy Lufthansa’s Future Onboard Experience (FOX) — a major new service concept and one of the airline’s largest-ever investments in the onboard customer experience. Backed by an investment of more than EUR70 million in 2026, FOX introduces a new premium service standard across all travel classes, with a strong focus on personalisation, comfort and signature moments that redefine premium travel.

The A350 equipped with Allegris will operate between Singapore and Munich starting 26 October 2026. Tickets are already on sale at the airline’s website or via local travel agencies.

(Source: Lufthansa)

Sarawak strengthens regional tourism standing

KUALA LUMPUR, 19 May 2026: Sarawak’s growing influence within the regional tourism industry received further affirmation after Sarawak received the “Excellence in State Tourism Board Leadership 2025” recognition at the Asian Tourism & Hospitality Awards 2025–2026 held at Berjaya Times Square Hotel, Kuala Lumpur, last week. 

The Award reflected the sterling excellence behind Sarawak’s tourism growth and international positioning as one of Malaysia’s leading destinations and the “Gateway to Borneo” during Visit Malaysia Year 2026.

YB Dato Dennis Ngau, Chairman of Sarawak Tourism Board, represented STB in accepting the Excellence in State Tourism Board Leadership 2025 award at the Asian Tourism & Hospitality Awards 2025–2026, held on 14 May 2026 at Berjaya Times Square Hotel, Kuala Lumpur.

Presented during the regional gala ceremony attended by tourism and hospitality leaders from across Asia, the award was received by Sarawak Tourism Board Chairman, YB Dato Dennis Ngau on behalf of the STB.

The Asian Tourism & Hospitality Awards 2025–2026 celebrate excellence, innovation, leadership, and service across Asia’s tourism and hospitality industry. This year’s edition featured more than 250 nominees across Asia and garnered over 100,000 public votes, reflecting the platform’s growing regional credibility and industry significance.

Speaking following the award presentation, YB Dato’ Dennis Ngau described the recognition as a reflection of the collective efforts behind Sarawak’s tourism development and global visibility.

“This award is not only for Sarawak Tourism Board, but for the entire tourism ecosystem in Sarawak — including the State Government, industry players, local communities, tourism stakeholders, media partners and all Sarawakians who continue to contribute to strengthening our tourism industry and to sharing Sarawak with the world.

“Sarawak’s tourism journey has always been guided by authenticity, sustainability, cultural preservation, and meaningful visitor experiences. We are proud that our direction and efforts are being recognised at a regional level. This progress is the result of meticulous planning under the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030, which continues to shape the state’s tourism direction and long-term aspirations,” he said.

He added that the recognition further strengthens Sarawak’s commitment towards supporting Malaysia’s tourism aspirations throughout Visit Malaysia Year 2026.

“As Malaysia welcomes the world through Visit Malaysia Year 2026, Sarawak remains committed to strengthening our tourism offerings, expanding international collaborations, improving connectivity, and creating experiences that continue to position Sarawak as a destination rich in culture, nature, adventure, food, and festivals.

Beyond destination promotion, we also aspire for Sarawak to be recognised as a place for meaningful tourism, where culture, sustainability, communities, and global engagement come together,” he added.

Sarawak continues to gain international recognition through its diverse tourism offerings and globally recognised signature events, including the Rainforest World Music Festival and Rainforest Youth Summit, which have helped position the state as a leading platform for cultural exchange, sustainability conversations, youth engagement, and experiential tourism in the region.

As Visit Malaysia Year 2026 continues, Sarawak remains focused on strengthening destination marketing efforts, strategic partnerships, event development, and sustainable tourism initiatives to attract both domestic and international visitors while reinforcing the state’s growing reputation on the global tourism stage.

The Asian Tourism & Hospitality Award was organised by TIN Media, one of Malaysia’s leading independent digital media platforms dedicated to the tourism and hospitality industries. Now in its second edition, the awards were held in conjunction with MAH Hospitality Week 2026 and the Hospitality Suppliers Expo 2026.

(Source: Your Stories — Sarawak Tourism Board)

New wellness resort opens in Vietnam

HO CHI MINH CITY, 19 May 2025: Auko Eco-Wellness Lodges, a new hospitality and wellness resort in Vietnam, is set to open in Q3 2026 in the sUNESCO-listed landscape of Phong Nha–Ke Bang National Park.

Positioned along the Son River and surrounded by the dramatic limestone peaks and ancient cave systems of Phong Nha,  including the legendary Son Doong caves, Auko will become Vietnam’s first EDGE Advanced-certified eco-wellness lodge experience, offering a new benchmark for regenerative luxury hospitality in Southeast Asia.

Photo credit: Auko.

Developed for the modern “Wayfinder”, the all-inclusive retreat will feature 30 elevated tented eco-lodges, thoughtfully designed in harmony with the surrounding environment, using reclaimed timber, resilient architecture, indigenous planting, and flood-adaptive structures aligned with IFC’s Building Resilience Index (BRI).

Beyond its design credentials, Auko introduces a wellness philosophy shaped by the natural rhythms and ancient traditions of Central Vietnam. In partnership with Lumina Wellbeing, guests will experience nature-led healing journeys that incorporate Rhassoul clay rituals, hydrotherapy, forest rainfall showers, sound healing, primal movement, meditation caves, and seasonal ceremonies inspired by local Cham wisdom.

The guest experience is centred around three distinct pathways:

• The Open Way – gentle restoration, movement and reconnection

• The Still Way – introspective wellness and transformation

• The Wild Way – active adventure and dynamic wellness experiences

The property will also offer forest-to-table dining at Origin Restaurant, featuring locally sourced ingredients, wild-foraged herbs and regional Vietnamese flavours, alongside curated jungle, river and cave adventures unique to Phong Nha.

Getting to the Auko experience

●      Flight from Ho Chi Minh City or Ha Noi to Dong Hoi Airport, one-hour private transfer to Auko 

●      Flight from Ho Chi Minh City or Ha Noi to Hue Airport, three-hour private transfer to Auko 

●      Train journey from Da Nang or Ha Noi to Dong Hoi Railway Station, one-hour private transfer to Auko

●      Private car drive for five hours from Da Nang to Auko 

●      Motorbike adventure tours from Ha Noi with a halfway stop in Vinh or Cua Lo Beach

With wellness tourism continuing to evolve toward more meaningful, nature-connected, and regenerative experiences, Auko is poised to become one of Vietnam’s most anticipated new luxury openings in 2026.

Rates start from USD300++ for two guests per night, all inclusive.

Van Phu Real Estate Development JSC owns the project (https://vanphu.vn/) and its wellness-hospitality operator is Lumina Wellbeing. 

(Source: Auko Eco-Wellness Lodges)