PANAJI, India, 21 October 2025: Goa made a strong impression at ITB Asia 2025, highlighting its distinctive ‘Regenerative Tourism’ model that blends sustainability, culture, and connectivity.
With the theme ‘Goa — The Gateway to All Possibilities,’ the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, engaged with key international stakeholders to promote meaningful collaborations and enhance global visibility.
Photo credit: Goa Tourism.Goa strengthens its global tourism footprint at ITB Asia 2025.
Representing Goa Tourism, the Goa delegation comprised Shri Kuldeep Arolkar, Managing Director, GTDC; Shri Rajesh Kale, Deputy Director Tourism; Shri Deepak Narvekar, Deputy General Manager (Marketing/Hotels) and PRO, GTDC; Shri Nivrutti Parsekar, Superintending Engineer (GTDC); Shri Amar Heblekar, General Manager, (GFDC); and Shri Vishesh Naik, Sr. Manager, GTDC.
Speaking about Goa’s participation, Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A Khaunte, stated: “Our participation at ITB Asia 2025 has opened new avenues for Goa to engage with global tourism leaders and strengthen international collaborations. This engagement has helped us attract quality tourism, diversify source markets, and position Goa as a year-round destination that offers meaningful experiences. Through such international platforms, we aim to reinforce Goa’s identity as a destination that grows responsibly while contributing positively to the global tourism landscape. These exchanges not only enhance our international outreach but also pave the way for long-term partnerships that align with our vision of creating a tourism ecosystem rooted in regeneration and inclusivity.”
Director of Tourism, Shri Kedar Naik, emphasised the state’s readiness to welcome international travellers, saying: “Goa’s participation at ITB Asia reflects the state’s commitment to expanding international reach while staying true to its cultural essence. We are working towards attracting travellers who value authentic experiences that celebrate Goa’s heritage, wellness offerings, and natural beauty in responsible ways.”
GTDC Managing Director Shri Kuldeep Arolkar added: “ITB Asia 2025 allows us to explore innovative tourism solutions and collaborate with global partners to enhance Goa’s offerings while keeping sustainability and community benefits at the core.”
SINGAPORE, 21 October 2025: Agoda has announced a new partnership with the UK’s largest hotel chain, Premier Inn, making the hotel’s portfolio of over 900 properties across the UK, Germany and Ireland available to Agoda’s customer base.
This collaboration will deliver a greater choice and value to Agoda’s travellers, particularly those from Asia, who are increasingly seeking quality, reliable accommodation as they explore destinations across the UK, Germany and Ireland.
Interest in travel to the UK and European region is on the rise among Asian travellers, with Agoda data showing a 20% increase in searches in 2025 compared to the same period in 2024. Excluding intra-Asian destinations, the UK ranks among the top five most searched international destinations for travellers from Asia.
With the addition of Premier Inn’s extensive network to its platform, Agoda is not only expanding its accommodation offering but also supporting Premier Inn’s ambition to reach new international audiences. Agoda’s deep roots and digital expertise in Asia offer Premier Inn the opportunity to tap into the region’s dynamic outbound travel market, connecting millions of travellers with high-quality, great-value stays as they plan their next adventure.
“Premier Inn’s commitment to delivering great value, consistent quality, and ensuring every guest enjoys a good night’s sleep are shared values that underpin Agoda’s mission to make travel more accessible and rewarding. Together we’re bringing trusted stays to millions of new travellers across Asia and beyond,” said Agoda Senior Vice President of Supply, Andrew Smith.
SINGAPORE, 21 October 2025: Scoot, the low-cost subsidiary of Singapore Airlines (SIA), has announced the launch of new flights to Labuan Bajo, Medan, Palembang and Semarang.
These flights will commence progressively between December 2025 and February 2026, strengthening Scoot’s presence in Indonesia and offering customers more diverse travel experiences.
Photo credit: Scoot. Embraer E190-E2 aircraft.
Labuan Bajo, located in the western part of Flores Island in Indonesia, is renowned for its pristine beaches, beautiful coral reefs, and vibrant marine life in the Flores Sea.
In addition to being the main gateway to Komodo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, Labuan Bajo is also known for its panoramic views of surrounding islands such as Padar Island and cultural sites like the Wae Rebo Village.
From 21 December 2025, Scoot will begin twice-weekly flights to Labuan Bajo using its Embraer E190-E2 aircraft.
Medan, the capital of North Sumatra, is a bustling metropolis and offers travellers access to Lake Toba, the largest volcanic lake in the world. A stepping stone to nature expeditions, Medan also houses cultural landmarks such as Maimun Palace, the Grand Mosque and the historic Tjong A Fie Mansion. Scoot will begin daily flights to Medan on the Airbus A320 family aircraft from 1 February 2026.
Palembang, the capital of South Sumatra, is one of Indonesia’s oldest cities. It is renowned for significant landmarks such as the Great Mosque of Palembang and the Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II Museum. A centre for trade and culture known for its lively traditional markets and unique culinary offerings, Palembang is a blend of historical legacy and contemporary development.
From 15 January 2026, Scoot will begin four times weekly flights to Palembang on the Embraer E190-E2 aircraft.
Semarang, the bustling capital of Central Java, is a city rich in cultural heritage and Dutch colonial architecture. Known for landmarks such as the Lawang Sewu building, which is now used as a museum and gallery, the Great Mosque of Central Java, and its vibrant culinary scene, Semarang offers travellers a blend of rich Javanese history and multicultural influences.
Scoot will begin three times weekly flights to Semarang on the Airbus A320 family aircraft from 23 December 2025, increasing to four times weekly from 1 January 2026.
One-way economy class fares start from SGD170 to Labuan Bajo, SGD108 to Medan, SGD129 to Palembang and SGD125 to Semarang, inclusive of taxes. The new flights will be available for booking from today via Scoot’s website, mobile application, and progressively through other channels.
Scoot Chief Executive Officer Leslie Thng said: “We are proud to strengthen Scoot’s presence in Indonesia with the launch of new flights to Labuan Bajo, Medan, Palembang and Semarang. These additions underscore our commitment to strengthening our network connectivity in Southeast Asia and providing accessible and seamless connections to the rest of the wider SIA Group network through Singapore.
We will continue to seize new opportunities to expand our footprint and offer customers more travel options and memorable experiences.”
With the launch of services to Labuan Bajo, Medan, Palembang and Semarang, Scoot will operate over 120 weekly flights to 15 cities in Indonesia from February 2026. Scoot’s network will grow to 83 destinations across 18 countries and territories in Asia Pacific, the Middle East and Europe.
In anticipation of increased demand for air travel during the upcoming holiday season, Scoot will also be making adjustments to its network starting this month, with an increase in flights to Bangkok and Samui Island in Thailand.
Indonesia
From November 2025, flights to Jakarta will continue to operate 28 times weekly, while Manado will see increased services from four to six times weekly. From January 2026, services to Surabaya will increase from 10 to 12 times weekly, flights to Bali from 21 to 28 times weekly and flights to Yogyakarta from seven to 10 times weekly.
Thailand
There will be additional services to Bangkok, from 39 to 42 times weekly from October 2025, while flights to Koh Samui will increase to 28 times weekly by December 2025.
Malaysia
Flights to Penang will increase from 21 to 28 times weekly from November 2025. Services to Kota Kinabalu and Kuching will each increase from seven to 10 times weekly from February 2026.
Laos
Flights to Vientiane will increase from five to seven times weekly from December 2025.
GURUGRAM, India, 21 October 2025: Air India will add 174 weekly flights on key domestic and short-haul international routes, operated by its single-aisle aircraft, as part of its Northern Winter Schedule, beginning 26 October 2025.
This significant expansion of Air India’s winter schedule enhances connectivity to major cities in India and Southeast Asia, meeting the high demand and keeping you well-informed and connected.
Photo credit: Air India.
Additions to short-haul international routes
· Delhi-Kuala Lumpur: Increasing from 7x to 10x weekly flights, effective 15 November
· Delhi-Denpasar (Bali): Increasing from 7x to 10x weekly flights, effective 01 December
Additions to domestic India routes
Seasonal additions of flights to Rajasthan, effective 26 October:
· Delhi-Jaipur (new route): Introducing 3x daily flights
· Delhi-Jaisalmer (new route): Introducing 2x daily flights
· Delhi-Udaipur: Increasing from 2x to 3x daily flights
· Mumbai-Jaipur: Increasing from 3x to 4x daily flights
· Mumbai-Udaipur: Increasing from 3x to 4x daily flights
· Mumbai-Jodhpur: Increasing from 1x to 2x daily flights
More flights to Madhya Pradesh, effective 26 October:
· Delhi-Indore: Increasing from 3x to 4x daily flights
· Delhi-Bhopal: Increasing from 2x to 3x daily flights
· Mumbai-Indore: Increasing from 1x to 2x daily flights
More flights to Gujarat, effective 26 October:
· Mumbai-Bhuj: Increasing from 1x to 2x daily flights
· Delhi-Rajkot: Increasing from 1x to 2x daily flights
Other frequency additions, effective 26 October:
· Delhi-Varanasi: Increasing from 2x to 3x daily flights
· Delhi-Raipur: Increasing from 2x to 3x daily flights
· Delhi-Port Blair: Increasing from 1x to 2x daily flights
· Delhi-Aurangabad: Increasing from 1x to 2x daily flights
· Delhi-Guwahati: Increasing from 1x to 2x daily flights
· Delhi-Nagpur: Increasing from 1x to 2x daily flights
· Mumbai-Dehradun: Increasing from 1x to 2x daily flights
· Mumbai-Patna: Increasing from 1x to 2x daily flights
· Mumbai-Amritsar: Increasing from 1x to 2x daily flights
Air India’s retrofit programme for its legacy Airbus A320neo aircraft, launched in September 2024, is nearing completion this month. Of the 27 legacy A320neo aircraft, 26 have been retrofitted with brand-new cabin interiors featuring three classes: Business Class, Premium Economy, and Economy Class. Combined with other modern single-aisle aircraft, Air India now operates over 100 A320 family aircraft with cabin interiors, delivering a significantly enhanced travel experience on more than 80 domestic and short-haul international routes.
SINGAPORE, 21 October 2025: The Singapore Tourism Board has issued a cautionary note to travellers visiting Singapore to undertake travel transactions “only through licensed travel agents”.
It follows STB’s warning that identifies an individual, Lim Yi Shoon, and two companies, I-Travel Pte Ltd and LikeTravel Pte Ltd, for having allegedly offered to supply travel products to members of the public.
STB’s travel advisory says the individual and the two companies are not STB-licensed travel agents and are currently subjects of interest in an ongoing investigation by STB.
Carrying on the business of a travel agent without a licence is an offence under Section 6(2) of the Travel Agents Act 1975, punishable on conviction with a fine of up to SGD25,000, imprisonment for up to two years, or both.
STB said it takes a “serious view of such activities and will not hesitate to take enforcement action. It advises travellers who have come into contact with the identified individual and/or company(s) to lodge a report via https://go.gov.sg/contactstbform.
STB says the travellers’ reports should include relevant information such as booking details and a description of the incident. Travellers are reminded to verify if their chosen travel agent is licensed via the Travel Agents directory on the TRUST website.
JAKARTA, 21 October 2025: TransNusa Aviation Mandiri (TransNusa) is strengthening its base in Bali by introducing a new international route from the renowned tourism destination to Changi, Singapore, starting 17 November.
TransNusa started selling tickets for the new scheduled flight from Bali to Singapore on 17 October. Tickets are priced from SDG109 (MYR285, USD65 and IDR999.000), purchased on the airline’s website or online travel agencies.
TransNusa Group Chief Executive Officer, Datuk Bernard Francis.
TransNusa Group Chief Executive Officer, Datuk Bernard Francis, said: “The addition of the Bali – Singapore international route is significant to TransNusa as Singaporeans are one of ASEAN’s top tourists for Bali.”
TransNusa will launch the maiden flight from Bali to Singapore on 17 November 2025. It will operate three flights weekly and intends to increase frequencies quickly to meet anticipated passenger traffic demand.
“From 17 to 29 November, TransNusa will offer three scheduled flights weekly on Mondays, Fridays and Sundays. By 30 November, we will increase the schedule to daily flights from Bali to Singapore,” said the airline’s CEO.
TransNusa’s scheduled flight, 8B 551 (DPS-SIN), will depart Bali at 0730 from I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport and arrive at the Singapore Changi Airport at 0955.
Flight, 8B 552 (SIN-DPS), will depart Singapore Changi Airport at 1055 and arrive at I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali at 1330. TransNusa will use its 174-seat Airbus A320 for this international route with a flight time of two hours and 30 minutes.
MULU, Sarawak, 16 October 2025: After inspiring audiences in Kuala Lumpur and Osaka, Serumpun Sarawak returned to its birthplace, deep within the UNESCO World Heritage rainforest of Mulu, for an extraordinary convergence of nature, heritage, and hyperlocal flavour.
Hosted by the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak (MTCP) and the Sarawak Tourism Board (STB), this event marked another chapter in a global journey that has carried Sarawak’s stories across borders — now returning to the land and communities that inspired it.
From the left, YBhg Dato Sri Haji Wan Lizozman Wan Omar (State Financial Secretary), YB Dato Dennis Ngau (Chairman of Sarawak Tourism Board), YB Dato Sri Haji Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah (Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak), Che Puan Besar Kalsom Abdullah, and Datu Sherrina Binti Hussaini (Permanent Secretary of Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak) at “The Serumpun Salon: Conversations in the Rainforest.” The session explored how Sarawak’s Indigenous wisdom aligns with global ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) frameworks, highlighting community-based practices as models for regenerative tourism.
Set against the lush backdrop of Mulu Marriott Resort & Spa, Serumpun Sarawak: Mulu Edition introduced guests to an intimate rainforest experience themed “We Are Nature, Nature Is Us — Everything is Everything.”
The programme united Sarawak’s Indigenous communities, culinary artisans, and creative practitioners in a showcase that reaffirmed the state’s position as a global leader in sustainable cultural tourism and regenerative storytelling.
“Serumpun Sarawak’s return to Mulu is symbolic; it brings the world home to Sarawak’s living heritage,” said Sarawak Tourism Board CEO Puan Sharzede Datu Haji Salleh Askor. “Through this initiative, we celebrate Sarawak not only as a destination of natural wonders but as a source of wisdom — where culture, cuisine, and conservation are inseparable. It is a reminder that sustainability begins with respect: for people, for place, and for purpose.”
Every detail of Serumpun Sarawak in Mulu embodied the principle of hyperlocalisation, reinforcing STB’s commitment to responsible tourism that uplifts communities while preserving the integrity of the environment. Ingredients were foraged from nearby rivers and forests, table décor was sourced directly from nature, and culinary practices reflected traditional wisdom adapted to contemporary sustainability standards.
A curated showcase of Sarawak’s inspiring indigenous artisans and social enterprises, highlighting craftsmanship and storytelling as vehicles for cultural preservation. Featured participants include representatives from The Tuyang Initiative, CHASS, Earthlings Coffee, Dayak Lore, Penang Basket, Awing, Bera Adam Ba’kelalan, and Savo.
The programme featured leadership salons, cultural showcases, and immersive dining experiences, each curated to illustrate the harmony between Sarawak’s biodiversity and its multicultural heritage. At the heart of the experience was a seven-course gastronomic journey curated by Chef James Won, in collaboration with Sarawak’s Indigenous food custodians. Each dish represented a dialogue between modern culinary innovation and ancestral memory, inspired by the collective wisdom of Sarawak’s 34 ethnic communities.
Ingredients such as rainforest botanicals, freshwater produce, and traditional ferments were transformed into fine dining expressions of Sarawak’s terroir, rooted in sustainability and respect for the land.
The experience was narrated by Prof Gerard Bodeker, whose reflections on the medicinal and therapeutic properties of Sarawak’s native ingredients deepened the evening’s connection between wellness, ecology, and culture.
The ‘Serumpun Salon: Conversations in the Rainforest’ explored how Sarawak’s Indigenous wisdom aligns with global sustainability frameworks such as ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance).
Panellists Joanne Flinn (Founder of the ESG Institute) and other thought leaders highlighted how Sarawak’s community-based practices, from traditional agriculture to food preservation, serve as models for responsible and regenerative tourism.
The showcase featured Sarawak’s most inspiring indigenous artisans and social enterprises, curated to highlight craftsmanship and storytelling as vehicles for cultural preservation.
Among them were The Tuyang Initiative, CHASS represented by Datin Dona Drury Wee and Chef Laura Sim Bara, Earthlings Coffee, Dayak Lore, Penang Basket, Awing, Bera Adam Ba’kelalan, and Savo — each embodying Sarawak’s creativity and its evolving cultural economy.
A standout moment of the evening was the performance of Ilun Kuai, the official theme song of Serumpun Sarawak, performed by Adrian Jo Milang and co-created with Zee Avi, Raja Farouk, and the Atlas Collective team, a profoundly moving reflection of Sarawak’s soul through rhythm, voice, and ancestral memory.
For STB, Serumpun Sarawak represents more than a cultural showcase; it is a living archive of Sarawak’s identity, proving that sustainability, culture, and creativity can coexist as drivers of inclusive growth.
By returning to Mulu, the journey reconnected its global audience to the rainforest that sustains Sarawak’s people and spirit. From the forests to the rivers, Serumpun Sarawak stands as a powerful testament to Sarawak’s vision of tourism that heals, honours, and inspires.
SINGAPORE, 16 October 2025: Digital travel platform Agoda has released a list of the most romantic destinations in Asia for those planning a marriage proposal.
With their natural beauty and grandeur, these destinations offer an ideal backdrop for new beginnings, perfect for marking an unforgettable chapter in a couple’s love story.
Photo credit: Masalaweds: A leading source for Thailand’s wedding scene, focusing on the Indian market. Visit: MasalaWeds.
Here’s Agoda’s curated list of the top romantic destinations for proposals in Asia.
Sapa, Vietnam
With its lush terraced rice fields and misty mountains, Sapa offers a unique and breathtaking backdrop for a proposal. The region’s rich cultural heritage and stunning vistas provide an epic and romantic setting for couples looking to start their journey together.
Koh Lipe, Thailand
Known as the “Maldives of Thailand,” Koh Lipe offers crystal-clear waters and stunning coral reefs. This island paradise is perfect for couples seeking a serene and intimate setting. The breathtaking sunsets and secluded beaches make it an ideal spot for a romantic proposal.
Nami Island, South Korea
Famous for its tree-lined avenues and scenic views, Nami Island is a perfectly romantic escape for two. The island’s enchanting paths and cultural charm create a magical setting for a proposal, especially during the cherry blossom season or the vibrant autumn months.
Karuizawa, Japan
Nestled in the mountains, Karuizawa is a charming town known for its beautiful autumn foliage and tranquil hot springs. Its picturesque landscapes and cosy atmosphere set a timelessly romantic scene, making it a perfect place to ask the big question.
Labuan Bajo, Indonesia
As the gateway to the Komodo National Park, Labuan Bajo is a destination for adventure-loving couples. The stunning marine life, pristine beaches, and dramatic landscapes make it a captivating spot for a proposal, offering both romance and excitement.
Agoda Senior Vice President, Supply, Andrew Smith shared: “Every proposal deserves a backdrop as beautiful as the love story it celebrates. From secluded beaches to serene mountain towns, Asia’s romantic destinations add a touch of magic to every moment. At Agoda, we love helping couples create these unforgettable experiences with our great deals on accommodations, flights, and activities.”
SINGAPORE, 16 October 2025: Following a two-week drydock in Portland, Oregon, Sapphire Princess has set sail, unveiling new guest experiences, including the addition of two popular speciality restaurants – Makoto Ocean and Crown Grill.
Makoto Ocean and Crown Grill will be open for guests starting 16 November 2025.
The 115,875-ton ship, which carries 2,670 guests, underwent general refurbishments and enhancements, highlighted by the transformation of two venues into speciality dining experiences.
Makoto Ocean Sushi by Chef Makoto Okuwa
Following its debut aboard Sun Princess and Star Princess, Makoto Ocean has been added to Sapphire Princess, in place of the former Internet Café located on Deck 7.
The restaurant brings the authentic artistry of Chef Makoto Okuwa’s Edomae-style sushi to sea. Guests can enjoy a premium menu of specialities, including truffle salmon, snow crab temaki, and toro tartare, alongside handcrafted cocktails such as the Genmai Negroni (a refined Japanese twist on the classic) and Kodai No Hana (blending yuzu juice with Doburoku, an ancient sake).
Crown Grill Steakhouse
Another highlight of the drydock is the addition of the award-winning Crown Grill, now occupying the former Savoy Dining Room on Deck 5. The Crown Grill is a longtime guest favourite, serving premium aged beef, chops and fresh seafood. With warm, elegant design and attentive service, the restaurant has been recognised as one of the “Best Cruise Ship Steakhouses at Sea.”
Both dining experiences are priced at USD60 per person and included as a speciality dining option for guests who book the Princess Premier package.
Upcoming Itineraries
Fresh from her revitalisation, Sapphire Princess sets sail to Mexico before repositioning for a season of South America/Antarctica cruises, followed by Mediterranean and Northern Europe voyages in spring and summer 2026. In fall 2026, she will sail a series of Canada/New England cruises.
In a historic first for the cruise line, March 2027 will mark the reunion of sister ships Sapphire Princess and Diamond Princess in Japan. Both ships — built in Japan — will sail from the Tokyo region for Princess Cruises’ most expansive Japan season ever, running March through December 2027.
About Princess Cruises Princess Cruises is The Love Boat, the world’s most iconic cruise brand, delivering dream vacations to millions of guests every year in the most sought-after destinations on the largest ships, which offer elite service, personalisation, and simplicity customary of small, yacht-class ships. Star Princess, the brand’s newest ship, launched in October 2025 and is a sister ship to Sun Princess, named Condé Nast Traveler Mega Ship of the Year for a second consecutive year. The company is part of Carnival Corporation & plc.
SINGAPORE, 16 October 2025: Ponant names Benoît-Etienne Domenget as Group CEO, effective 3 November 2025. He takes over from Hervé Gastinel, who is leaving the group to pursue new professional projects.
With 25 years of experience in hospitality, luxury, travel, and tourism, Benoît-Etienne Domenget’s remit is to drive the group’s continued international development and strengthen its hospitality excellence.
Photo credit: Ponant. Ponant Explorations Group CEO Benoît-Étienne Domenget.
President of Groupe Artémis, François-Henri Pinault, stated: “I am delighted to welcome Benoît-Etienne Domenget. His extensive and diversified experience and expertise in strategic fields for our company will give him all the assets to make Ponant Explorations Group an ever-stronger and more innovative player in the luxury and responsible cruise sector. He will be able to rely on a highly talented team.”
He added, “We warmly thank Hervé Gastinel for his unwavering commitment to the group. Under his leadership, the fleet has grown from 12 to 20 ships, and Ponant Explorations Group has successfully diversified its activities, in particular by entering river cruises and new formats such as the Spirit of Ponant.”
A graduate of HEC Paris, Benoît-Etienne Domenget began his career with Accor Group, holding various operational roles before being appointed Senior Vice-President Development for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. He later led Accor’s Swiss subsidiary and managed the low-cost hotel business across the DACH region, overseeing more than a hundred properties.
He then joined Michel Reybier Hospitality, a group owning prestigious hotels, vineyards, and wellness activities, before being appointed in 2017 as CEO of Sommet Education (Glion, Les Roches, École Ducasse, Indian School of Hospitality, and Invictus Education).
About Ponant Explorations Group For 35 years, Ponant Explorations Group has been offering luxury exploration cruises through its brands: Ponant Explorations, Paul Gauguin Cruises, Aqua Expeditions, and Ponant Yachting. The group operates 20 ships (from six to 165 staterooms and suites). Ponant Explorations Group has been owned since 2015 by Artémis, the Pinault family’s investment company.
