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Ayana unveils 2026 cruise schedule

SINGAPORE, 24 November 2025: Ayana Cruises releases its 2026 shared trip schedule for its flagship luxury phinisi*, Ayana Lako di’a, which was named Best Adventure Cruises in Southern Asia at the 2025 World Luxury Travel Awards. 

From April to October 2026, Ayana Lako di’a will explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Komodo National Park with a new season of two- and three-day cruises.

Photo credit: Ayana Cruises.

The Ayana Lako di’a is a 54-metre ‘phinisi’ that replicates the traditional wooden sailing ships of South Sulawesi. It features nine cabins, including a 69-sqm Master Suite with a private balcony and ocean-view bathtub, as well as six luxury suites with ensuite bathrooms. The luxury sailing ship also features a lounge, bar, indoor dining area, and spacious daybeds across the main deck.

The 2026 voyages continue to showcase the natural wonders of Komodo National Park with a two-day, one-night journey. Cruise highlights include a visit to Kalong Island, where guests can witness thousands of fruit bats take flight at sunset; a guided trek on Komodo Island for encounters with the legendary Komodo dragons; snorkelling at the Pink Beach; and a sunset hike to Padar Island’s panoramic lookout.

The three-day, two-night itinerary extends the adventure with visits to Taka Makassar’s dunes, Manta Point for the chance to swim alongside manta rays, and Siaba Island, an idyllic setting for relaxation and snorkelling.

All sailings include full-board gourmet dining, free-flow mineral water and non-alcoholic beverages, a wide range of activities such as snorkelling, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, yoga, and evening film screenings, as well as round-trip transfers to Komodo International Airport, Komodo National Park entrance fees, and professional digital photo documentation.

2026 Schedule

The two-day, one-night voyages are for travellers seeking a shorter experience. Cruise dates are: April 17–18; May 1–2 and 15–16; June 5–6 and 19–20; July 10–11 and 17–18; August 7–8 and 28–29; September 12–13 and 25–26; October 2–3 and 23–24.

For those wishing to extend their adventure, the three-day, two-night voyages offer a more in-depth exploration of Komodo’s natural treasures. Scheduled cruise dates are: April 3–5; May 29–31; June 26–28; July 24–26; and August 14–16.

Rates

Rates for 2026 offer flexibility for solo travellers and couples alike. Guests choosing single occupancy can book the Master Suite at IDR35,665,000++ per night, the Luxury Suite at IDR25,477,000++ per night, or the Deluxe Suite at IDR15,290,000++ per night.

For those sharing a cabin, double occupancy rates start at IDR48,900,000++ per night for the Master Suite, IDR38,713,000++ per night for the Luxury Suite, and IDR18,338,000++ per night for the Deluxe Suite. 

(Source: Ayana Cruises)

*A phinisi is a type of rigging (the configuration of masts, sails and ropes or ‘lines’) of Indonesian sailing vessels. A phinisi carries seven to eight sails on two masts, arranged like a gaff-ketch (Wikipedia)

Train Trip Diary: Blue Jasmine days three and four

BANGKOK, 24 November 2025: This feature marks the second instalment of my Blue Jasmine diary, a special series documenting every stage of this extraordinary nine-day rail journey across Thailand, offering readers an unfolding portrait of one of the country’s most exciting and culturally meaningful new tourism experiences.

Guests enjoy life on board the Blue Jasmine Train’s inaugural visit to Chiang Mai. Photo credit: AJW.

Day Three: Uthai Thani to Chiang Mai

Dawn rose softly over Uthai Thani as the river breathed a gentle mist across the wooden houses along its banks. Our morning began at the bustling riverside market, alive with farmers, vendors, and the comforting aromas of grilled pork and freshly cut herbs. Here, we selected fruits and simple offerings for alms-giving, a ritual deeply woven into Thai life.

Alms giving to a riverside monk in Uthai Thani. Photo credit: AJW.

A monk soon glided towards us in a small wooden boat, the bow dipping quietly with each stroke. One by one, we stepped forward to offer our gifts, placing our hands together in a respectful wai. The river shimmered with early light, giving the moment a peaceful, almost timeless quality.

Back at the resort, we joined teachers and students for the eight o’clock flag-raising ceremony in the school courtyard. Singing the national anthem together was unexpectedly moving. The flag was set at half mast in honour of the recent passing of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother.

A lively Thai language lesson followed breakfast in the school’s dining hall, led by our cheerful teacher JayJay. He guided us through everyday phrases and playful tongue twisters, including the well-loved Krai, Khai, Kai, Gai (Who sells chicken eggs). In a thoughtful gesture from DTH Travel, each guest received a personalised name badge in the style of a blue Thai street sign; a simple gift and a charming keepsake.

Our next stop was Wat Tha Sung, home to the remarkable Crystal and Golden Temples. Inside the Glass Temple, mirrored pillars sparkled like stars across the vast hall, while the Golden Temple glowed with ornate detail and spiritual warmth. From there, we boarded a traditional rice barge for lunch on the Sakae Krang River, gliding past floating homes, small boat gardens, and riverside families preparing for the day.

After a coffee break, we returned to The Blue Jasmine for an afternoon inspection of the beautifully refurbished train before settling in for the overnight journey north to Chiang Mai. 

Day Four: Chiang Mai

Rain greeted us as we rolled into Chiang Mai, falling softly across the mountains and giving the city a refreshing coolness. After breakfast on board, we checked into the Bodhi Serene Hotel, a peaceful hideaway with classic Lanna charm. The morning was at leisure and perfect for wandering through the Old Town with umbrellas in hand or simply enjoying the tranquillity of the boutique hotel.

Lunch was a treat — a visit to the much-loved Huen Phen restaurant to savour Chiang Mai’s signature dish, Khao Soi Gai. 

Chiang Mai’s signature dish, Khao Soi Gai. Photo credit: AJW. 

The yellow curry broth, tender chicken, soft egg noodles, and crispy toppings combined beautifully, a comforting reminder of the region’s culinary heritage.

Later, we travelled up the winding mountain road to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, one of Thailand’s most sacred temples. 

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Photo credit: AJW.

The rain deepened the colours of the golden chedi, the teakwood carvings, and the sweeping naga staircase. At 1,676 metres, the mountain holds a commanding view of the city and remains a cherished symbol of the former Lanna Kingdom. The temple’s origins reach back to the 14th  century, and its peaceful presence felt especially vivid in the soft afternoon mist.

Our day concluded with an excellent Thai dinner at Tamarind Village in the heart of the Old City. Its quiet courtyards, lanterns, and fragrant garden paths provided the perfect finale to our first day in Chiang Mai: Gentle beauty from morning to night.

(Source: Andrew Wood)

About the author
Andrew J. Wood is a British-born travel writer and former hotelier who has lived in Thailand since 1991. With more than four decades of experience in hospitality, he has managed leading hotels, served as a Director of Skål International and is a Past President of Skål International Bangkok, Skål Thailand, and Skål Asia. Andrew writes for travel and hospitality publications worldwide and is widely recognised as an ambassador for Thailand’s tourism industry.

Blue Jasmine Train nine-day trip dates

Scheduled departure dates for the Blue Jasmine departing from Bangkok.

2025

Maiden Journey The Blue Jasmine
16.11.25 – 24.11.25

2026

24.01.26 – 01.02.26
21.02.26 – 01.03.26
11.07.26 – 19.07.26
21.11.26 – 29.11.26
12.12.26 – 20.12.26

Oceania unveils new Sonata Class

SINGAPORE, 21 November 2025: Oceania Cruises unveiled Oceania Sonata on Thursday, the fleet’s ninth vessel set to debut in August 2027.

The vessel will be the first of four 1,390-guest ships in the new Sonata Class, representing the next chapter in the line’s continued evolution of its intimate, luxurious ships.

Photo credit: Oceania Cruises.

The new vessel will be the most spacious and amenity-rich to date, with 30% of all accommodation on board being suites. Oceania Sonata will debut two brand-new suite categories, plus spectacularly reimagined Owner’s Suites. Each suite and stateroom will have a private, spacious veranda.

Currently under construction by Fincantieri, the renowned Italian shipbuilder behind the celebrated Oceania Marina™, Oceania Riviera™, Oceania Vista and Oceania Allura, Oceania Sonata is scheduled to sail in August 2027. Measuring approximately 86,000 gross registered tons, the ship will accommodate 1,390 guests and be staffed by 855 officers and crew.

(Source: Oceania)

Shanghai sweetens Agoda hotel deals

SHANGHAI, 21 November 2025: To attract more international visitors and underscore Shanghai’s status as a leading inbound tourism gateway, Shanghai Municipal Administration of Culture and Tourism has joined forces with Agoda to introduce a hotel promotion — ‘This is Shanghai’. 

Travellers from Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia can enjoy 5% off their total booking, with a maximum discount of CNY50 per reservation, when booking Shanghai hotels through Agoda.

Photo credit: Agoda.

The promotion includes more than 3,000 hotels located near popular commercial districts like the Bund, Xintiandi, and Lujiazui, as well as major attractions such as Shanghai Disney Resort and Zhujiajiao. Guests can explore the classical beauty of Yuyuan Garden, stroll along the bustling Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, or embark on a magical adventure at Shanghai Disney Resort.

According to the Shanghai Municipal Administration of Culture and Tourism, the partnership enables digital platforms to deliver more convenient and high-quality travel experiences for international visitors from emerging markets. 

The promotion will run until January 2026. For the complete list of participating hotels, visit Agoda’s website or app and search for “Shanghai Promotion.”

Link: https://www.agoda.com/c/ThisisShanghai?ds=rz%2B96%2FUM3UfxH1u9 

(Source: Shanghai Municipal Administration of Culture and Tourism)

Telling the Sarawak events story

BARCELONA, Spain, 21 November 2025: Sarawak celebrated a defining milestone this week in its business events journey with the unveiling of the ‘Sarawak Destination Legacy Report: A Decade of Transformation’ during the IBTM World in Barcelona.

The report chronicles Sarawak’s journey from the founding of Business Events Sarawak (BESarawak) in 2006 to its rise as one of the world’s most progressive, legacy-driven business events destinations, establishing itself as the legacy capital of business events in Malaysia and Borneo.

From left: Jason Tan Chin Foo (Deputy CEO, BESarawak), Gary Grimmer (Executive Director, GainingEdge), Amelia Roziman (CEO, BESarawak), and James Latham (Founder, The Iceberg).

“True transformation occurs when we believe in the mission, commit for the long term, focus on real value, embrace necessary disruption, build strategic partnerships, and empower convention bureaux to lead — because their leadership strengthens the entire sector,” said BESarawak CEO Amelia Roziman at a press conference at IBTM World Barcelona.

This journey laid the foundation for one of Sarawak’s most ambitious initiatives: the Legacy Impact Master Action Plan (MAP) 2023–2025, introduced in 2023 as a structured, measurable roadmap to embed legacy outcomes into event design and delivery. With 2025 drawing to a close, Sarawak is approaching the completion of this landmark plan, having achieved far-reaching results that surpass both internal and global expectations.

“Looking back, Sarawak began this journey with ambition and purpose. Today, we have transformed that ambition into real impact. We have built a legacy ecosystem, strengthened government–industry collaboration, and established a model that other destinations now look to for inspiration,” added Roziman. “From 2026 to 2030, we aim to develop a new MAP to continue achieving legacy capital status, implementing a legacy-driven ecosystem powered by data and digital technology.”

At IBTM World Barcelona, Sarawak also hosted an official intention ceremony to adopt the Borneo Legacy Declaration. Established on 3 October 2025 following the Legacy Event Advocacy Policy (LEAP) Summit, the declaration formalises a commitment by policymakers and industry leaders from Asia and Europe to advance the global business events industry, reflecting shared vision and partnership. The LEAP Summit was organised by The Iceberg, presented by the Joint Meeting Industry Council, and powered by BESarawak.

“Sarawak is a great example of adopting this declaration and turning intent into real action. The destination has shown how commitment, collaboration and long-term thinking can elevate not only a region but also inspire global partners to do the same. Sarawak isn’t just signing on, it is demonstrating what meaningful adoption looks like, and we look forward to seeing what’s next from Sarawak,” said The Iceberg founder James Latham.

GainingEdge, Executive Director Gary Grimmer, who served as the consultant for Sarawak’s Legacy Impact Master Action Plan (MAP) 2023–2025, expressed his strong admiration for the cohesion shown by Sarawak’s industry.

“Having consulted destinations around the world on legacy-driven events, Sarawak has performed far better than we ever expected with the Legacy MAP. They have delivered achievements we believed would only materialise after 2025. Their focus on legacy showcases the very best of the destination, demonstrating a level of teamwork and shared vision between government and industry that we rarely see.”

In December, BESarawak will formally adopt the Borneo Legacy Declaration and launch the Business Events Sarawak Alliance (BESA) programme for the government sector, fostering collaboration between BESarawak and 12 government ministries in Sarawak to ensure the legacy-driven ecosystem is integrated across the public sector.

The launch of both the declaration and BESA is scheduled for December. It will be officiated by the Premier of Sarawak, The Right Honourable Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg.

Sarawak also presented a snapshot of 10 conference case studies, revealing the legacies generated through AI.LEGACY Intelligent Impact Management System that demonstrates how data-driven validation is strengthening the destination’s impact narrative.

For more information on business event opportunities in Sarawak, visit Business Events Sarawak

(Source: Your Stories — BESarawak)

Qatar accelerates Starlink installation

DOHA, Qatar, 21 November 2025: Qatar Airways has achieved a significant milestone in its Starlink rollout programme, equipping over 100 widebody aircraft with a fast Wi-Fi inflight service. 

This achievement represents one of the most rapid Starlink installation programmes being implemented ahead of the initially expected schedule.

Photo credit: Qatar.

With more than 50% of its widebody fleet now Starlink-connected, the airline has already operated over 30,000 flights with uninterrupted, high-speed, in-flight connectivity. 

This pace further cements Qatar Airways’ position as the only carrier in the MENA region currently offering Starlink on board, and as a global leader in Starlink-enabled long-haul and ultra-long-haul connectivity.

To date, Qatar Airways has completed the Boeing 777 rollout programme and is rapidly finalising the Starlink rollout across its Airbus A350 aircraft, also set to be completed in record time. As the airline continues to extend Starlink connectivity across its global flight network spanning over 170 destinations, passengers in every cabin enjoy free, ultra-fast connectivity on flights spanning six continents, including flights to the majority of destinations served by Qatar Airways in the Americas and Australia, and on prominent routes in Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.

(Source: Qatar)

Oneworld names round-the-world winners

SINGAPORE, 21 November 2025: Oneworld’s top 10 most-searched-for destinations for Round the World travel in 2026 via the oneworld.com website reveal a mix of iconic cities and global gateways. 

Top destinations are:

  • London
  • Tokyo
  • Doha
  • Hong Kong
  • Sydney
  • Los Angeles
  • Dallas/Fort Worth
  • New York
  • Melbourne
  • Singapore

With the addition of Fiji Airways and Oman Air this year, and Hawaiian Airlines set to join the alliance in 2026, searches for destinations in the Pacific, including Fiji, the Cook Islands, Kiribati, and Hawaii, as well as Oman, have increased.

Oneworld data also reveals Japan is the top origin market for Round the World tickets, followed by Australia, the UK, the US, and Hong Kong. Travellers are most likely to embark on solo journeys (66%), travelling to an average of seven stops over three or more months.

“Searches on oneworld.com show a strong appetite for adventure in the New Year. From the Big Apple and Hawaii’s Big Island to Mount Fiji and the Atlas Mountains, oneworld’s Round the World fares offer customers access to a network of leading airlines on a single ticket,” said oneworld’s vice president Commercial and Loyalty, Roger Blackburn. “Oneworld’s Round the World fares are also increasingly popular with corporate travellers looking for flexible, cost-effective travel options for complex itineraries.”

All fares are bookable online at oneworld.com. Itineraries may include three to 16 flights across up to six continents and must consist of a trans-Atlantic and a trans-Pacific flight.

(Source: Oneworld Management Company)

Malaysia’s sports events spur holiday bookings

SINGAPORE, 21 November 2025: Malaysia’s major sporting events continue to attract both local and international interest, according to the latest search data from digital travel platform Agoda. 

Search trends on Agoda show higher accommodation interest around key events such as the Kuala Lumpur Standard Chartered Marathon, Mount Kinabalu Climbathon, and IRONMAN 70.3 Langkawi triathlon — highlighting how these events drive travel activity across the country.

Photo credit: Ironman Malaysia. 2025 IRONMAN 70.3 Langkawi finishing line.

During the Kuala Lumpur Standard Chartered Marathon weekend from 4 to 5 October, domestic searches rose 24% while international interest grew 7% year-on-year as locals and international runners alike gathered in the capital for the event. 

The Marathon drew the most travel interest from Indonesia, Singapore and China. Additionally, among the top 10 markets expressing travel interest to Kuala Lumpur during this period, Agoda also reported high growth in searches from Bangladesh (+224%), Hong Kong SAR (+73%), South Korea (+48%), and Taiwan (+25%), alongside steady interest from Japan (+22%).

In Langkawi, the IRONMAN 70.3 on 1 November drew international attention to the island. The long-distance triathlon circuit, consisting of swimming, biking, and running, was set against the tropical backdrop of Langkawi’s scenic coast, picturesque villages, and lush forests, making it the perfect setting for an unforgettable race. The top five markets that expressed travel interest in Langkawi during the event included Singapore, India, South Korea, Bangladesh and Japan. Notably, travellers from South Korea and Bangladesh showed the highest growth in interest during the event, with 536% and 148% increases in searches, respectively.

In Sabah, the 32nd Mt Kinabalu International Climbathon on 19 October also elicited increased travel interest from athletes in the region. South Koreans expressed the most interest in this event, followed by Singaporeans and Chinese travellers seeking the adrenaline-pumping mountain race. 

Notably, Singaporeans expressed the highest growth in interest, with an 84% increase in searches for Kota Kinabalu, the nearest major destination to Mount Kinabalu, during the race period. 

These search and booking patterns suggested that Malaysia’s sports calendar continues to capture the attention of travellers from across Asia, reflecting the country’s potential as a destination where athletic pursuits and travel experiences go hand in hand. Such interest also signals broader opportunities for tourism growth and global exposure as Malaysia strengthens its position in the regional sports tourism market.

Recognising this potential, the Malaysian government recently announced a 50% income tax exemption for private companies that organise international-level arts, cultural, tourism, and sports or recreational competitions. 

Introduced under the country’s Budget 2026, the incentive aims to encourage greater private-sector participation in global events and support Malaysia’s tourism and sports industries ahead of Visit Malaysia Year 2026.

Agoda Country Director for Malaysia and Brunei Fabian Teja said: “Sporting events are much more than competitions. They inspire exploration and discovery. Beyond race weekends, these occasions allow travellers to experience more of what Malaysia has to offer, from its islands and rainforests to its colourful cities. Malaysia’s expanding sports calendar, supported by initiatives like the new tax incentive, highlights how travel and sports can work hand in hand to create a meaningful impact.”

(Source: Agoda)

Pan Pacific hires commercial and marketing chief

SINGAPORE, 21 November 2025: Pan Pacific Hotels Group has appointed Celine Du as Chief Commercial and Marketing Officer, a seasoned commercial strategist with over three decades of experience across some of the world’s most prestigious luxury hotel brands.

Before joining PPHG, she held senior leadership roles at Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group and Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts, where she led global commercial and marketing initiatives that elevated brand presence, strengthened market share, and delivered sustainable revenue growth across China and key international markets.

Photo credit: PPHG. Celine Du.

In her new role, she will oversee PPHG’s commercial strategy and performance across both corporate and property levels across its portfolio of Pan Pacific, PARKROYAL COLLECTION, and PARKROYAL brands to maximise revenue generation and growth. In addition, she will drive channel management, loyalty, and global partnerships to enhance the Group’s commercial reach and customer engagement.

Her appointment comes at a transformative time for PPHG, following the recent rebranding of its three core brands, Pan Pacific, PARKROYAL COLLECTION and PARKROYAL. 

About Pan Pacific Hotels Group 
Pan Pacific Hotels Group is a global hospitality company that owns and manages over 50 hotels, resorts, and serviced suites under three brands — Pan Pacific, PARKROYAL COLLECTION, and PARKROYAL — in more than 30 cities across Asia Pacific, North America, Africa, and Europe. Headquartered in Singapore, it is a member of Singapore-listed UOL Group Limited.

(Source: Pan Pacific Hotels Group)

A&K orders second luxury Nile riverboat

MELBOURNE, 21 November 2025: Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group (AKTG) signed an agreement with Egyptian shipbuilder The Arab Contractors (Osman Ahmed Osman & Co.) this week for the construction of a second newbuild luxury riverboat.

A sister vessel to the highly anticipated Nile Seray, scheduled for delivery in late 2026, the new boat will be ready to sail the Nile in 2028. Yet to be named, it will mirror the sophisticated design and spacious accommodations of Nile Seray, featuring 32 elegant suites for just 64 guests. 

Photo credit: A&K. Rendering of the second luxury Nile riverboat.

Each suite will offer a minimum of 33 sqm, with floor-to-ceiling windows and waterside balconies. Two suites will boast full private balconies with outdoor spa pools overlooking the ancient river. 

“This second vessel represents our absolute confidence in Egypt’s enduring appeal and our commitment to setting new standards in Nile cruising,” said AKTG CEO Cristina Levis. “Having two sister ships of this calibre allows us to offer even more travellers the exceptional experiences that have defined A&K’s presence in Egypt since 1977.” 

Legacy reinvented 

A&K’s relationship with the Nile dates back to founder Geoffrey Kent’s pioneering vision, inspired by a chance encounter with David Niven on the set of Death on the Nile in 1977. Kent subsequently leased the SS Memnon, launched A&K’s first Nile cruise, and established a legacy of innovation that continues to this day. With this expansion, A&K’s Egyptian fleet will grow to six luxury vessels, including the intimate Zein Nile Chateau dahabiya and the elegant Sun Boat III and Sun Boat IV riverboats. 

“Egypt is experiencing a remarkable renaissance in luxury tourism, and we’re proud to be at the forefront of this transformation,” said A&K Senior Vice President for Egypt and the Middle East, Amr Badr.

“These new vessels represent not just an expansion of our fleet, but a deepening of our commitment to Egypt and its people. Working with The Arab Contractors shipyard and in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism demonstrates our confidence in Egyptian craftsmanship and our dedication to supporting the local economy.” 

The vessel will feature two restaurants, a spa with two treatment rooms, a well-equipped gymnasium, and a top deck with canopied daybeds, swimming pool, and outdoor bar with wraparound views of the Nile valley. 

Photo credit: A&K. Left to right: Manfredi Lefebvre d’Ovidio, Executive Chairman of AKTG, and Engineer Ahmed El Assar, Chairman of the Arab Contractors Company.

Strategic expansion  

AKTG’s announcement comes at a pivotal moment for Egyptian tourism, with the recent opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum, which displays 100,000 artefacts, including King Tutankhamun’s complete treasure collection for the first time since its discovery in 1922. 

A&K reports that bookings for Egypt have increased significantly year-on-year, particularly for its tailor-made holidays and private experiences. 

The expansion forms part of AKTG’s broader investment in its A&K Sanctuary portfolio, which celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2025. The company has announced significant developments across multiple continents, including the recently opened Pure Amazon riverboat in Peru, the reimagined Gorilla Forest Lodge in Uganda, and Baines’ Lodge in Botswana’s Okavango Delta. Future openings include Kitirua Plains Lodge in Kenya’s Amboseli region (mid-2026) and a luxury retreat in Moab, Utah. 

“Egypt has always held a special place in A&K’s story,” added Levis. “These vessels embody our understanding that luxury today is defined not by excess, but by space, authenticity, and the quality of experience. They reflect how we see travel: deeply personal, beautifully crafted, and rooted in genuine connection to place.” 

(Source: A&K)