Guests sailing from Singapore and Malaysia deployments will enjoy a full waiver of the fuel surcharge. Guests sailing from Taiwan and Hong Kong will benefit from a 50% reduction in the current fuel surcharge. 

The updated fuel surcharge waiver and reduction apply to sailings departing on or after 26 June 2026.

The revised fuel surcharge structure accounts for the operating requirements of different deployments in the region and reflects the gradual improvement in fuel market conditions.

StarDream Cruises said in a press statement that it remains committed to delivering excellent value and memorable cruise experiences across all its regional markets.

“As fuel prices have continued to stabilise, we are pleased to reduce and, where possible, fully waive the fuel surcharge across our deployments,” said StarDream Cruises President Michael Goh. “We have always taken a transparent approach to fuel surcharges, introducing them only when necessary and reviewing them regularly. As operating conditions improve, we believe it is important to pass these benefits on to our guests.”

(Source: StarDream Cruises)

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The additional flights reinforce Thailand’s position as one of the most popular destinations across Norse Atlantic’s network and reflect Norse’s continued focus on deploying capacity where customer satisfaction and demand are strongest.

The expansion includes the launch of a new three-times-weekly service between London Gatwick (LGW) and Phuket (HKT), alongside an increase in flights between Manchester (MAN) and Bangkok (BKK) to four weekly services from December 2026. 

In addition, Norse Atlantic will continue to serve popular winter-sun destinations, such as routes between London Gatwick (LGW) and Bangkok (BKK) and between London Gatwick (LGW) and Cape Town (CPT) throughout the season.

Flights from Scandinavia

In Scandinavia, Norse will also boost frequencies on its Thailand routes from both Oslo and Stockholm:

Oslo (OSL) – Bangkok (BKK): increase to five weekly flights

Oslo (OSL) – Phuket (HKT): increase to two weekly flights

Stockholm Arlanda (ARN) – Bangkok (BKK): increase to five weekly flights

Stockholm Arlanda (ARN) – Phuket (HKT): increase to two weekly flights

“Thailand continues to be one of the most popular destinations in our network. We are delighted to offer customers even more opportunities to visit both Bangkok and Phuket this winter, in line with our strategy of adding capacity where demand is strongest,” said Norse Atlantic Airways CEO Eivind Roald. “Whether customers are looking for vibrant city experiences, beautiful beaches or a longer winter escape, the additional flights provide more flexibility, greater choice and affordable direct travel from the UK and Scandinavia.

“Over the past months, we have taken important steps to strengthen the company, improve efficiency and sharpen our commercial focus. We would like to thank our customers for choosing Norse Atlantic and for the continued confidence they place in our product. We are equally grateful to our airport partners in Manchester, London Gatwick, Oslo and Stockholm Arlanda, whose collaboration and support continue to play an important role in our growth journey,” said Roald.

About Norse Atlantic
Norse Atlantic operates a fleet of 12 fuel-efficient Boeing 787 Dreamliners, serving a network of destinations across North America, Europe, Africa and Asia.

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The fair arrives at a defining moment for the global halal tourism industry, with Muslim international arrivals reaching 196 million in 2025, exceeding earlier projections by 10 million. The annual expenditure is on track to reach USD310 billion by 2030.

Now in its second edition, MFTF 2026 marks a significant scale-up from its inaugural run. The fair features 123 booths from 57 participating organisations, spread across 2,700 square metres of exhibition space, making it the nation’s most comprehensive marketplace for Muslim-friendly travel products, services, and experiences.

Malaysia continues to lead the Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) for 11 consecutive years, highlighting its position as a global benchmark.

“Malaysia stands at a remarkable inflexion point. We are the world’s benchmark for Muslim-friendly travel, and yet the greatest opportunity is still ahead of us. MFTF exists to bridge the gap between that global recognition and actual business growth for our members. When over 100 million travellers are moving across the world and looking for trusted destinations and services, we want our members to be the first names that come to mind, and this Fair is where that journey begins,” said MFTF 2026 Deputy Organising Chairman Dr Fazil Khan.

MFTF 2026 is made possible through the support of key industry partners who share a commitment to growing Malaysia’s Muslim-friendly tourism ecosystem:

• Islamic Tourism Centre (ITC) as Strategic Partner
• Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO) as Sponsor
• RHB Bank Berhad as the Official Bank Partner

The involvement of ITC as a strategic partner is particularly significant. Established as a Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) agency, ITC is the custodian of Malaysia’s Muslim-Friendly Tourism and Hospitality Assurance and Recognition (MFAR), a nationally developed standard that is now attracting interest from international partners worldwide.

ITC, as a MOTAC agency championing the development of Muslim-friendly travel in Malaysia, applauds MATTA for leading by example in establishing a platform for industry players to showcase their Muslim-friendly products, services and facilities. Making these accessible to the public strengthens Malaysia’s position as an inclusive and cohesive Muslim-friendly destination.

At a time when international partners and worldwide destinations are turning to Malaysian-developed standards such as our Muslim-Friendly Tourism and Hospitality Assurance and Recognition (MFAR), we are proud to prioritise and uplift our local industry first. To that end, we are delighted to welcome MATTA members on board as our MFAR partners. Moving forward, ITC will deliver targeted capacity building programmes to 1,000 MATTA members over the next two years, equipping industry players with the competitive advantage and marketability needed to tap into the growing Muslim tourist market,” said  ITC Director-General Mohammad Faisal Abu Suaib Khan.

“RHB Bank is proud to partner with MATTA as the Official Bank for the Muslim Friendly Travel Fair 2026, a key platform advancing Malaysia’s Muslim-friendly tourism offerings. This collaboration reflects our commitment to supporting the growth of the halal travel ecosystem while making travel more accessible and seamless for Malaysians.

Through solutions like the RHB Multi Currency Debit Card/-i, which enables transactions in up to 34 currencies, we aim to provide greater convenience and enhance the overall travel experience. We look forward to supporting visitors with exclusive offers and value-added banking solutions as they plan their journeys,” said Dato’ Adissadikin Ali, Managing Director of RHB Islamic Bank Berhad

Additionally, MATTA is proud to spotlight Macao as a sponsor of this edition, recognising the destination’s significant progress in Muslim-friendly travel. Ranked 16th overall in the GMTI 2025, Macao made an impressive debut among destinations actively developing Muslim-friendly tourism offerings. MGTO continues to encourage halal certification in the F&B sector and conducts regular training and other activities to familiarise tourism personnel with the needs of Islamic customers, among other initiatives, as part of efforts to attract visitors from around the world.

Macao’s presence at MFTF 2026 sends a clear message: the world is coming to Malaysia to reach Muslim travellers, and the MFTF is the platform that makes that connection possible.

MFTF is open to the public from 1000 to 2100 on Saturday and Sunday, 4 to 5 July 2026. Visitors are encouraged to use public transport to reduce carbon emissions and support sustainable travel. On-site parking will also be available.

(Source: MATTA)

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Nestled between a centuries-old tropical rainforest and the Andaman Sea, the resort is a sanctuary for travellers seeking a connection to both the island’s natural beauty and their personal well-being.

“The opening of Hilton Burau Bay Langkawi Resort reflects Hilton’s commitment to bringing its flagship brand’s experience to Malaysia’s most renowned leisure destinations,” said Alexandra Murray, area vice president and head of South East Asia, Hilton. “As the country continues to solidify its position as a highly sought-after global destination, we are strategically growing a portfolio that meets the evolving demands of the modern traveller. By bringing Hilton’s world-class hospitality to the beauty of Burau Bay, we are offering a sophisticated new benchmark for full-service hospitality in Langkawi.”

Spanning almost 22 acres, the resort features 251 rooms and suites ranging from Terrace and Deluxe Rooms to Executive Suites, each offering a private terrace or balcony overlooking the rainforest, mountains or sea. 

The resort’s four restaurants. Guests can enjoy authentic Asian flavours paired with international classics at Gingerfire, the resort’s all-day dining restaurant. 

MINGZHU introduces a rare speciality concept to the island, honouring the complex, spice-driven traditions of Yunnan’s ethnic tribes. 

Trattoria Mare is an elevated seaside destination where Italian flavours meet the Andaman coast, offering a sophisticated alfresco experience.

The wellness experience extends across the resort’s three distinct swimming pools — a family-friendly hub, a dedicated kids’ pool and a secluded adults-only retreat — complemented by five rock pools. 

The opening reinforces Hilton’s strategic momentum in Malaysia, adding to its diverse portfolio, which includes the recently opened Hilton Shah Alam Glenmarie and Hilton Garden Inn Kota Kinabalu Tuaran. The resort’s debut sets the stage for a landmark year of growth, with Waldorf Astoria Kuala Lumpur and Conrad Kuala Lumpur poised to elevate Malaysia’s luxury hospitality landscape later this year.

Hilton Burau Bay Langkawi Resort is part of Hilton Honors. To celebrate the opening of Hilton Burau Bay Langkawi Resort, Hilton Honors members can earn 5,000 points with a minimum three-night stay. This offer is valid from now to 31 October 2026

Hilton Burau Bay Langkawi Resort is located at 103 Teluk Burau, Mukim Padang Matsirat, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia. 

(Source: Hilton)

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Amangati charts a new course across the Atlantic to arrive in Saint John’s, Antigua and Barbuda – the port from which the Caribbean season unfolds.

The Autumn season comprises three regional movements – the Leeward Islands, the Windward Islands, and the Dutch Caribbean – with select sailings extending through the festive season.

The Leeward Islands voyages open the season with three successive itineraries through the northern arc of the Antilles, drawing on the languid harbour of Gustavia in Saint Barthélemy, the gentle rhythms of Saint Kitts and Nevis, and the white-sand beaches and turquoise coastlines that define this corner of the region. Calls at Barbuda for a dedicated Marina Day, Jost Van Dyke and Virgin Gorda in the British Virgin Islands, Philipsburg in Sint Maarten, the volcanic stillness of Saba, Little Bay in Montserrat, and a beach day at Prickly Pear Cay off Anguilla, round out journeys that move with the quiet alchemy of Caribbean yachting.

The Windward Islands voyages, departing from Saint John’s and Bridgetown in Barbados, respectively, carry guests south through Îles des Saintes in Guadeloupe, Portsmouth in Dominica, Anse d’Arlet in Martinique, and Soufrière in Saint Lucia, beneath the rain-forested Pitons. Onward calls at Canouan in the Grenadines and Saint George’s in Grenada complete a route through some of the region’s most admired shorelines.

The Dutch Caribbean voyages present itineraries from Bridgetown and Oranjestad tracing the southern Caribbean’s ABC islands – Aruba, Bonaire and Curaçao. Bonaire’s castaway beaches and pristine coral gardens, the pastel-hued waterfront of Willemstad and the uninhabited Tobago Cays in the Grenadines bring the season’s southernmost reach into view.

About Aman
Aman was founded in 1988 with the vision of building a collection of intimate retreats with the unassuming, warm hospitality of a gracious private home. The first, Amanpuri (place of peace), in Phuket, Thailand, introduced the concept and, since then, Aman has grown to encompass 35 exquisitely serene hotels, resorts, and branded residences, ranging from the urban to the remote, in 20 destinations across the globe. 

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It marks the first arrival of a Chinese cruise ship to the Maldives, representing a step in the continued diversification of the Maldives’ tourism portfolio and the development of cruise tourism as a complementary segment of the Maldives’ wider tourism offering.

The welcome event, held on 22 June 2026, was organised to provide arriving guests with a memorable first impression of the Maldives through authentic cultural experiences and warm local hospitality. 

Passengers arriving aboard the vessel were greeted with a Boduberu performance by the Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) Estate Boduberu Team, showcasing the Maldives’ rich traditions and cultural heritage. 

The development of cruise tourism also contributes to the national visitor arrival targets through diversified arrival channels. Further, it strengthens and diversifies the tourism industry while supporting sustained growth in visitor arrivals. The initiative is part of Visit Maldives Corporation’s broader collaboration with MAYA, which aims to further strengthen the Maldives as a leading destination for yacht and cruise tourism in the Indian Ocean. 

Through its partnership with MAYA, Visit Maldives Corporation will work to provide visitors with a distinctive blend of luxury, culture, and natural beauty, contributing to broader tourism growth objectives by supporting visitor cruise and yacht arrival targets and increasing international exposure for the destination.

(Source: Visit Maldives)

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The event brought together the company’s senior leadership team, led by Chairman Luzi Matzig and CEO Laurent Kuenzle, along with managing directors of all business units and key decision-makers in technology, e-commerce, sourcing, marketing and sustainability.

Over two days of strategic discussions, held at dusitD2 Samyan, Bangkok, the leadership team reviewed business performance, explored new opportunities and aligned on the company’s direction for the year ahead, with a focus on sustainable growth, innovation and stronger regional integration.

The event concluded with a memorable evening, as members of Asian Trails’ Bangkok team gathered for a reception at Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort, followed by a sumptuous dinner cruise along the Chao Phraya River with Loy Pela Voyages.

For more information, visit: About Us · Asian Trails. 

(Source: Asian Trails)

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This year, Centara received accolades for properties spanning beachside retreats, countryside hideaways, and immersive island experiences:

Thailand

Centara Reserve Samui — Ranked No 9, Beach + Island Resorts (Thailand). Set along Chaweng Beach, this property is a premier destination for bespoke luxury, defined by sophisticated design, curated wellness journeys, and personalised service.

Roukh Kiri Khaoyai, The Centara Collection — Ranked No 9, Upcountry Hotels (Thailand). Celebrated for its tranquil hilltop sanctuary and barn-house-inspired contemporary design, this intimate retreat continues to be recognised for its warm atmosphere, exceptional service, and connection to nature.

Maldives

Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa, Maldives, The Centara Collection — Ranked No 3, House Reefs. A haven for marine enthusiasts offering easy access to one of the region’s most captivating underwater ecosystems.

Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives — Ranked No 4, Resorts for Families. A testament to Centara’s family-centric philosophy, this property has been lauded for its vibrant, underwater world-themed environment that offers boundless fun for all ages, perfectly blending adventure with modern comfort.

“We are honoured to be recognised once again by Travel + Leisure’s readers,” said Michael Henssler, Chief Operating Officer of Centara Hotels & Resorts. “To see our properties acknowledged across such diverse categories speaks to the individuality of each destination, as well as the care and consistency our teams bring to every guest experience.”

As Centara continues its strategic expansion, the group remains dedicated to its mission of delivering the warmth of Thai-inspired hospitality through a modern lens, ensuring every guest experience is rooted in world-class service, connection, and the unique spirit of each destination.

For more information about Centara Hotels & Resorts and its award-winning properties, please visit https://www.centarahotelsresorts.com/

(Source: Your Stories — Centara Hotels & Resorts)

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The Qantas Airbus A350-1000ULR has been configured with just 238 seats, the lowest seat density of any A350 around the world, giving every customer more space on board. 

Every element has been designed to help customers arrive at their destination feeling their best, drawing on a decade of research with the University of Sydney’s Charles Perkins Centre and close collaboration with Caon Design Office and technology partners.

Across the A350-1000ULR, seating, lighting, dining and wellbeing have been designed to work as one, helping customers rest when they want to, stretch out and arrive feeling refreshed.

First class

The A350-1000ULR will feature six enclosed First suites in a 1-1-1 configuration, each designed using innovations and ergonomic research to deliver the ultimate long-haul experience. Each suite features an 80-inch flat bed and a separate reclining armchair, with a large flexible work and dining space for one or two people, a full-length wardrobe, and multiple personal storage areas.

Business Class

The 52 Business suites are arranged in a 1-2-1 configuration. For the first time, Qantas Business suites will feature a sliding door for additional privacy, as well as an adjustable divider between the alternating centre seats. Each suite includes an 80-inch flat bed, a large dining table and work surface, and increased storage options.

Premium Economy

The 40-seat premium economy cabin is arranged in a 2-4-2 configuration and has been redesigned from the ground up for ultra-long-haul travel. Every seat features an ergonomically designed calf-rest system for full leg support, an 8-inch winged privacy headrest, dedicated amenity and personal storage pockets, and the most generous seat pitch of any Qantas aircraft. A custom multi-layer memory foam system, tested across ergonomic modelling, lumbar support and pressure mapping, has been developed specifically for this cabin.

Economy

The 140-seat economy cabin, configured in a 3-3-3 layout, offers a more generous seat pitch than any current Qantas aircraft. The new Economy seat also features a custom-designed multi-layer memory foam system, which has undergone the same testing as Premium Economy, with woven wool upholstery in an earthy Australian ‘Pilbara Red’, improving breathability and temperature on long-haul journeys.

Qantas Group CEO Vanessa Hudson commented: “Project Sunrise has given us the chance to think differently about every aspect of the onboard experience. Working closely with Charles Perkins Centre over many years, we’ve designed the experience around the science of what the body needs during a long flight, so customers arrive feeling their best. This will be a completely new way to travel, and our customers are going to feel that from the moment they step on board.”

Further customer trials and testing of the new cabin features are underway ahead of the first Project Sunrise flights in 2027.

Project Sunrise will eventually connect Australia’s east coast to international destinations, with Sydney-New York confirmed as the next service after Sydney-London. Launch timing for these services will be announced next year.

(Source: Qantas)

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The airline has increased its domestic flight capacity in Vietnam by 30% on key routes connecting Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi with popular leisure destinations, including Nha Trang, Da Nang, Phu Quoc, Hue, Quy Nhon, and Quang Binh, as well as major regional centres across the country. 

The expanded schedule means more flexibility for international travellers when planning Vietnam getaways during the peak travel period, with greater access to popular beach, heritage and city destinations across the country via Vietjet’s domestic network. The additional capacity also supports more convenient multi-city itineraries, giving Singaporean travellers more options besides direct flights between Singapore and Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, Da Nang, Phu Quoc and Nha Trang.

Vietjet has also increased frequencies on selected international routes, including Ho Chi Minh City–Kuala Lumpur, which will operate twice daily from 3 July 2026. With these additions, Vietjet is operating more than 500 flights daily across its network, offering over 8.8 million seats to meet growing travel demand during the peak summer season. 

As part of its summer travel promotions, Vietjet is offering promotional Eco base fares and discounts of up to 20% on Deluxe, SkyBoss, and Business class tickets (excluding taxes and fees) across its network through 31 August  2026 (*). Promotional fares are available on the airline’s website and mobile app. 

Passengers flying with Vietjet can also receive exclusive football-themed gifts and enjoy special seasonal onboard offers. Travellers who pre-order meals through Vietjet’s Hattrick and Penalty combo packages can save up to 30%, making their journeys even more convenient and enjoyable.

The carrier is also introducing attractive launch offers for several new international services scheduled to commence later this year, including a new Nha Trang–Singapore service with four round-trip flights per week. The new service will further strengthen connectivity between Singapore and Vietnam as part of Vietjet’s wider international network expansion:

Ho Chi Minh City – Colombo (Sri Lanka) from 18 August 2026; 

Hanoi – Almaty (Kazakhstan) from 10 October 2026; 

Hanoi – Prague (Czech Republic) from 10 October 2026 

Nha Trang – Singapore from 11 December 2026

With increased capacity, an expanding route network, and flexible travel options, Vietjet continues to make air travel more accessible while supporting tourism growth and regional connectivity throughout Asia-Pacific and beyond.

(*) Travel periods may vary by route; blackout dates may apply.

(Source: Vietjet)

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