Thursday, October 2, 2025
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Match tickets for the Munich 25 final

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TTR WEEKLY
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DOHA, Qatar, 25 February 2025: Qatar Airways, in partnership with Qatar Airways Holidays, offers football fans travel packages for the world’s most prestigious club competition match, the UEFA Champions League final 2025. 

As the Official Airline Partner of the UEFA Champions League, the airline presents a limited opportunity for fans to secure complete travel packages, including flights, hotel accommodation and match tickets to the final in Munich on 31 May 2025.

UEFA Champions League final match tickets and hotel accommodation.

With these all-inclusive travel packages, fans will secure flights and accommodation and category one UEFA Champions League final match tickets, which are also seamlessly integrated for a hassle-free experience.

The travel package includes the following:

  • Return flights with Qatar Airways
  • Hotel stay in Munich
  • Match tickets
  • The opportunity to collect Avios and Qpoints on your flights, as well as on the total package value
  • The option to redeem packages using Cash + Avios for even more significant savings.

Football enthusiasts across the GCC, Africa, Asia-Pacific, the Middle East, and beyond can now quickly secure their spot at one of the most anticipated sporting events of the year.

Korea introduces e-Arrival card

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TTR WEEKLY
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SINGAPORE, 25 February 2025: Korea introduces the e-Arrival card, allowing visitors to submit their entry information online in advance instead of the current paper arrival form system, which will be discontinued in December 2025.

Visitors can now submit the declaration form up to three days before entering Korea, based on Korean Standard Time. However, if they fail to enter Korea within 72 hours after submitting their e-Arrival card, the card will no longer be valid. 

The form can be submitted through the e-Arrival card website by entering the required information; the website supports both PC and mobile devices.

Visitors can download a PDF file of their submitted form, but it is not a requirement for entry inspection. For visitors under 14 years old, a family member or another person must complete the declaration form on their behalf. The form can also be submitted on behalf of adults and for multiple people at once. 

Fast facts

  • e-Arrival card website: e-arrivalcard.go.kr 
  • Launched on 24 February 2025 at 1400 KST
  • Korea Immigration Service website: mojhome.moj.go.kr (Korean, English)
  • e-Arrival card information can be downloaded in English, Chinese, Japanese, and Vietnamese 

2025 Cherry Blossom Forecast 

Meanwhile, the Korea Tourism Organisation is pinpointing the best times to visit to capture cherry blossoms blooming with its annual forecast for 2025. Released on Sunday, KTO notes that this year’s cherry blossoms are expected to bloom three to eight days earlier than average.

The earliest cherry blossoms can be seen in Jeju Island around 22 March, Busan around 23 March, Seoul and Gangneung around 1 April. As cherry blossoms are estimated to peak approximately one week after blossoming, the flowers are expected to fully bloom in Seogwipo, Jeju, after 29 March and in Seoul around 8 April. 

For those planning a trip to Korea this spring, plan to see cherry blossoms in full bloom across the country. 

Jeju Island: 22 March (Sat)
Busan: 23 March (Sun)
Jeonju, Jeonbuk State: 26 March (Wed)
Gangneung, Gangwon State: 1 April (Tue)
Seoul: 1 April (Tue)
Chuncheon, Gangwon State: 4 April (Fri)

* Actual blooming and peak dates may differ from forecast dates depending on weather conditions.

(Source of information: Weather i)

Vietnam extends Visa Exemption Scheme

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TTR WEEKLY
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HANOI, 24 February 2025: Vietnam targets 22 to 23 million foreign visitors this year following an expansion of its visa exemption scheme for citizens in three more countries — Poland, the Czech Republic, and Switzerland.

Voice of Vietnam World reported that foreign visitor arrivals to Ho Chi Minh City surged during the recent Lunar New Year, according to the city’s  Municipal Department of Tourism.

Director Le Truong Hien Hoa told VOVWorld: “We are investing in high-value tourism products to attract more visitors, encourage longer stays, and provide a richer experience. We are maintaining traditional markets while targeting new ones. More open visa policies are needed to remain competitive with other countries.”

Visitor arrivals to Vietnam surpassed 17.5 million in 2024, representing a significant surge driven by strategic initiatives such as more relaxed visa policies. Expanded air routes and increased flight frequencies, particularly from major Asian and European markets, improved accessibility and facilitated travel to Vietnam. Strong recovery was evident in key markets such as South Korea, China, and India.

As part of the 2025 Tourism Stimulus Programme, Vietnam has announced visa exemptions for Poland, the Czech Republic, and Switzerland for stays up to 45 days, effective from 1 March to 31 December 2025.

Expanded Visa-Free Stays

Vietnam has extended the visa-free duration to 45 days for citizens of:

  • Germany   
  • France   
  • Italy   
  • Spain   
  • UK   
  • Russia   
  • Japan   
  • South Korea   
  • Denmark   
  • Sweden   
  • Norway   
  • Finland   
  • Belarus.

(Source: VOVWorld and Vietnam.VN)

Sabah: A training hub for nature guides

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TTR WEEKLY
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KOTA KINABALU, 24 February 2025: Sabah welcomes the World Federation of Tourist Guide Associations (WFTGA) recognition of the state as an ideal place for an international training centre for nature interpretation guides.

Assistant Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Joniston Bangkuai said this aligns with Sabah’s focus on culture, adventure, and nature tourism.

Datuk Joniston Bangkuai speaking to World Federation of Tourist Guide Associations (WFTGA) president Sebastian Frankenberger (2nd right). Also in the photo are Sabah Tourist Guides Association president Roger Rajah (2nd left) and WFTGA Head of Training Viola Lewis (right).

The Sabah Tourism Board chairman added that the state is ready to explore the potential of becoming a dedicated training hub for nature guides and had requested the Sabah Tourist Guides Association (STGA) to discuss the matter further with WFTGA. 

“Sabah has the appeal of biodiversity, landscapes, and ecotourism, making it a natural choice for training centres. With a structured plan, we can further position Sabah as a leader in nature-based tourist guide training,” the minister explained.

Datuk Joniston Bangkuai greets participants at the 1st World Federation Tourist Guide Associations Trainer Convention in Kota Kinabalu, on Thursday.

Last Thursday, 20 February, Joniston launched the first-ever WFTGA Trainer Convention, hosted in Sabah in collaboration with STGA. The convention brought together 100 participants from 27 countries, including virtual attendees.

Joniston said the event provides an opportunity for guides to adapt and innovate.
“For this industry to thrive, we must continue to learn and evolve. This convention is a step toward a stronger and more sustainable future in tourism. The WFTGA’s recognition of our potential is an opportunity for collaboration, and as a developing region, I hope the federation will support destinations like Sabah and consider us as a future host for its biennial congress”.

Earlier, WFTGA president Sebastian Frankenberger praised the state’s natural environment as an excellent setting for developing nature interpretation guides.

“What beautiful nature you have… Sabah is the perfect place to focus on nature interpretation. We need different training centres, and one dedicated to nature interpretation would be an excellent addition,” he said.

Frankenberger emphasised the need for proper training, highlighting topics such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), improving guiding standards, and inclusivity within the industry.

Participants engaged in Continuing Professional Development (CPD) sessions designed to help them grow as industry leaders. To complement their learning, participants joined tours around Sabah for firsthand exposure to the state’s tourism offerings, with post-convention activities including river cruises and wildlife encounters.

Present were STGA president Roger Rajah, Sabah Tourism Board chief executive officer Julinus Jeffery Jimit, Sabah Convention Bureau chief executive officer Noredah Othman, Sabah Parks director Dr Maklarin Lakim, and STGA past president Grace Leong, who is also the organising chairperson.

https://sabahtourism.com/

Michelin Guide arrives in Manila 2026

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TTR WEEKLY
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MANILA, 24 February 2025: The Michelin Guide has arrived in the Philippines, setting its sights on Manila and its neighbouring localities plus Cebu, for its highly anticipated 2026 debut. 

Last week, Michelin Guide confirmed its inspectors were already exploring the country’s vibrant dining scene, starting with bustling Metro Manila plus the capital’s environs, including Pampanga, Tagaytay, and Cavite.

Photo credit Philippines Department of Tourism.

“In Manila, we see young, talented chefs redefining Filipino cuisine with fresh perspectives, while Cebu, as a leading tourist destination, offers an impressive range of dining experiences with world-class hospitality,” the Michelin Guide publishers said in a press statement.

The arrival of the Michelin Guide is supported by the Philippines Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco. She explained: “We extend our warmest welcome to the Michelin Guide, whose international recognition of the Philippines’ rich culinary heritage celebrates the diversity of flavours and exceptional creativity that permeate our nation. We are proud to share our vibrant culture and distinct cuisines with the world, which can be enjoyed through exceptional dining experiences across our dynamic cities and beautiful islands. We invite travellers to visit the Philippines and experience the love, warmth, and creativity of Filipino cuisine while savouring innovative culinary creations shaped by diverse global influences.”

The full restaurant selection of the Michelin Guide Manila and Environs & Cebu 2026 will be unveiled at a special event scheduled for the last quarter of 2025. It will be available exclusively in digital format on all the Guide’s interfaces: website, mobile applications, and social networks. It will join the global Michelin Guide restaurant and hotel selections available free on its digital platforms.

AirAsia terminal change at Xi’an

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TTR WEEKLY
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XI’AN China, 24 February 2025: AirAsia X relocated its international flight operations at the Xi’an Xianyang International Airport (XIY) from Terminal 3 (T3) to Terminal 5 (T5), effective 20 February 2025.

All AirAsia flights, operated by AirAsia X Malaysia ( D7) and AirAsia Thailand (FD) will arrive at and depart from T5. Affected guests will receive notifications of this change through their registered email and via SMS, along with a new flight itinerary via email. To ensure they are promptly informed of any flight updates, all guests are advised to update their latest contact details with AirAsia. 

Additionally, impacted guests are encouraged to reprint their travel itinerary to reflect the correct departure terminal on the day of travel. 

For bookings made via travel agents, guests are advised to refer to their respective booking agents for further assistance.

Cooking classes on Oceania cruises

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TTR WEEKLY
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SINGAPORE, 24 February 2025: Oceania Cruises has expanded its signature range of Culinary Discovery Tours by adding 12 new gourmet excursions for 2025.

The new chef-led tours are in diverse locations worldwide from Europe and the UK with new excursions in Amsterdam, Belfast, Invergordon, Valencia, and Valletta to Asia with three new options for Japan sailings in Kobe, Kochi, and Shimizu, plus Busan in South Korea; and North America where new tours are available in Halifax, Quebec City, and Victoria.

The additions mean Oceania Cruises now offers 46 Culinary Discovery Tours, available on its four larger ships, Marina, Riviera, Vista, and Allura, which debuts in July 2025.

The Culinary Discovery Tours are an integral part of the line’s food-focused enrichment programme, which includes The Culinary Centre, the first-ever hands-on cooking school at sea.

Limited to 18 guests and led by Oceania Cruises’ expert Chef Instructors, each Culinary Discovery Tour goes beyond traditional sightseeing, providing access to local markets, acclaimed restaurants, and hands-on cooking classes, both onboard and ashore.

Ayana Cruises explores Komodo

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TTR WEEKLY
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SINGAPORE, 24 February 2025: AYANA Cruises unveils its 2025 schedule for shared voyages on the luxury yacht AYANA Lako di’a, from 18 April to 18 October. 

For the first time, guests can explore Komodo on the new three-day, two-night voyage, which complements the two-day, one-night cruise introduced in 2024.

AYANA Lako di’a

AYANA Lako di’a is a modern ‘Phinisi’ sailing ship that pays homage to South Sulawesi’s traditional wooden boat-building skills, an intangible cultural heritage recognised by UNESCO since 2017. The sailing ship is docked at AYANA Komodo Waecicu Beach, a five-star resort north of Labuan Bajo on Flores Island in East Indonesia.

The vessel features nine cabins, including the 69-sqm master suite with a private balcony and ocean-view bathtub and six 20-sqm luxury suites, all with ensuite bathrooms and stunning sea views. 

In addition to the two-day, one-night journeys, this season features four three-day, two-night voyages, offering a deeper exploration of Komodo National Park. 

Itineraries include full-board gourmet meals, free-flow non-alcoholic beverages, and activities such as snorkelling, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, yoga, and film screenings. Additional inclusions are transfers to and from Komodo International Airport, Komodo National Park entrance fees, and digital photo documentation of the journey.

Cox & Kings expands in India

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TTR WEEKLY
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NEW DELHI, 24 February 2025: Cox & Kings, a trusted travel brand, is expanding its presence across India by launching 10 new franchise locations in key cities a year after the travel group came under the ownership of Wilson & Hughes Ltd.

This expansion is part of a broader strategy to cater to the rising demand for outbound, domestic, and inbound travel. The new locations will provide travellers with personalised planning, expert consultation, and seamless booking services, all backed by advanced technology.

With growing interest from entrepreneurs and travel enthusiasts, Cox & Kings plans to establish 300 franchises, preferred agents, and holiday clubs across India and globally over the next two years. The company aims to create a robust ecosystem that blends technology with customer-centric travel solutions, offering significant opportunities for investors in the sector.

Cox & Kings director Karan Agarwal commented: “As travel continues to evolve, we recognise the need for a perfect blend of technology and human connection. While AI-powered itinerary planning helps us create seamless, personalised journeys, an on-ground presence enhances trust and engagement with travellers. Our expansion into new cities reflects our commitment to providing world-class services, ensuring our franchise partners stay ahead in a competitive market while offering exceptional experiences to modern travellers.”

Under the ownership of Wilson & Hughes Ltd,  Cox & Kings is focusing on innovation and digital transformation to enhance the travel experience. Franchise partners will gain access to AI-powered booking and itinerary-building systems, allowing them to deliver customised travel plans with efficiency and precision. 

Additionally, every franchise will feature trained travel experts who provide in-person consultation, ensuring a seamless and trusted customer experience. 

Integrating these digital tools with a strong offline presence positions Cox & Kings as a leader in the evolving travel industry.

The expansion comes when India’s travel industry is experiencing significant growth. According to industry reports, India’s outbound travel market is projected to exceed 50 million travellers by 2030, with rising demand for destinations such as Europe, Australia, New Zealand, the USA, Canada, and Japan. Domestic travel is also surging, particularly in cities like Bengaluru, Chennai, and Mumbai, driven by increased disposable income and a growing appetite for leisure travel. 

Meanwhile, inbound tourism is expected to grow at a 7.2% CAGR, fueled by cultural, spiritual, and adventure tourism interests.

Following its acquisition by Wilson & Hughes Ltd. in 2024, Cox & Kings has embarked on a new chapter, leveraging its rich legacy while embracing modern travel solutions. The acquisition included only the brand, with no assets or liabilities from previous ownership, ensuring a fresh start focused on innovation, quality service, and customer satisfaction.

The rebranded Cox & Kings has already attracted renewed interest from past partners and associates, who are eager to reconnect with the brand. Given the growing demand, Wilson & Hughes anticipates adding 10 to 20 more franchise locations across India and globally.

Cox & Kings, established in 1758, is one of the world’s oldest and most celebrated travel brands, known for its commitment to excellence, the brand has served generations of travellers by offering a diverse range of services across leisure, business, and specialised travel segments.

In 2024, Cox & Kings underwent a transformative relaunch under the ownership of Wilson & Hughes, a Singapore-based private equity firm specialising in everyday products (FMCG), building materials, and the travel and hospitality sector. This acquisition, facilitated through the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT), marked a fresh chapter for the brand, as it was acquired free of liabilities associated with the former entity.

Wilson & Hughes is dedicated to revitalising Cox & Kings by integrating modern technology and innovative practices while retaining its legacy of trust and excellence. The reimagined brand focuses on four core business segments: leisure travel, business travel, specialised tours, and travel technology. 

Take off to Emirates Travel Fair 2025 

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TTR WEEKLY
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BANGKOK, 21 February 2025: Emirates will bring back the Emirates Travel Fair 2025, which will convene from 27 February to 2 March at Siam Paragon’s Fashion Hall (1st floor), Bangkok, Thailand.

This four-day event is an opportunity to secure savings on both economy and business-class tickets across the Emirates global network. Whether you dream of exploring Hong Kong, experiencing the magic of Dubai, or indulging in the charm of European cities like Istanbul, Zurich, or Amsterdam, this is your opportunity to make those travel dreams a reality.

Immerse yourself in the Emirates experience with a dedicated lounge area to relax and unwind. Interact with the friendly Emirates cabin crew and gain a preview of the world-class service that awaits you. 

Partner banks, including KBANK, KTC, SCB, and UOB,  deliver offers exclusively for tickets purchased at the event.

Emirates connects travellers to over 140 destinations across 80 countries. Experience the Emirates difference with convenient flight options from Thailand, including 35 weekly flights from Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi International Airport to Dubai, 14 weekly flights from Phuket to Dubai, and a daily flight from Bangkok to Hong Kong.

For flight information and to make bookings, visit www.emirates.com.

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