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Centara Mirage Beach Resort Dubai appoints GM

DUBAI, UAE, 12 January 2026: Centara Mirage Beach Resort Dubai has announced the appointment of Samer Saleh as General Manager, following his successful tenure as Acting General Manager since June 2025. 

With over 26 years of hospitality experience leading international brands and a strong record of operational and commercial success, Samer will continue to drive the resort’s ambition to be one of the most sought-after family destinations in Dubai and the wider region.

In his new role, Samer will oversee all resort operations, including more than 600 family-oriented rooms, multiple dining venues, the award-winning spa, and the resort’s signature family-themed water park and recreation facilities. His leadership will focus on three key pillars: exceptional memory-making guest experiences, operational excellence and sustainable financial performance, all of which have become hallmarks of Centara Mirage Beach Resort Dubai.

Samer joined Centara Mirage Beach Resort Dubai in 2021 as part of the pre-opening Executive leadership team, was promoted to Hotel Manager in 2023, and served as Acting General Manager in 2025. During this time, he has played a pivotal role in the resort’s performance and reputation. Under his leadership, the resort has strengthened its position as a high-occupancy, family-focused beach resort on Dubai Islands, enhanced guest satisfaction scores through improved service standards with more intuitive family-friendly experiences, introduced new revenue streams across F&B, spa, and recreation while maintaining strong value for money for families and improved internal structures, reporting, and quality assurance systems to support long-term growth.

A passionate advocate for people development, Samer is known for his hands-on, empowering leadership style. He has championed internal promotion, cross-exposure opportunities and clear career pathways, helping to build a strong pipeline of future leaders within the resort. His “Champion” concept, in which team members are given ownership of key initiatives, guest-journey touchpoints, and commercial projects, has helped foster a culture of accountability, pride, and innovation across departments.

Looking ahead, Samer’s vision for Centara Mirage Beach Resort Dubai is to reinforce its status as a benchmark for family resorts in the UAE, combining Centara’s Thai-inspired warmth with Dubai’s energy and diversity. His strategic priorities include elevating and diversifying family experiences across rooms, dining, spa, and recreation, further integrating kids’ and teens’ activities, water-based attractions, and seasonal “festival-style” concepts, strengthening community and schools’ partnerships, particularly within the UAE and key regional source markets, and enhancing sustainability and CSR initiatives that engage both guests and the local community.

In line with Dubai’s ambition to be a global leader in innovation, Samer’s roadmap for the resort also includes the responsible integration of AI and innovative technologies. From more accurate demand forecasting and dynamic pricing to AI-assisted service design, guest feedback analysis, and personalised family offers. His goal is to use technology to support the team, not replace it, so his team can spend more time caring for guests while the systems run in the background to improve efficiency and performance.

“It is an honour to officially take on the role of General Manager at Centara Mirage Beach Resort Dubai,” said Samer Saleh. “I have been part of this resort’s journey from the very beginning, and I deeply believe in its potential as a true home for families, where children can play and explore, parents can relax, and families leave with meaningful memories. My commitment is to our guests, our people and our owners to keep raising the bar on experience and performance while ensuring that every team member feels proud, empowered, connected to our success story, and the resort continues to thrive as one of the UAE’s most beloved family destinations.”

With Samer at the helm, Centara Mirage Beach Resort Dubai is poised for an exciting new chapter defined by innovation, heartfelt hospitality and unforgettable family memories. Nestled on the picturesque Dubai Islands waterfront, the resort remains a vibrant destination for fun, relaxation, and connection, perfectly embodying Centara’s signature blend of Thai warmth and world-class hospitality.

About Centara
Centara Hotels & Resorts is Thailand’s leading hotel operator. Its 84 properties span all major Thai destinations plus the Maldives, Vietnam, Laos, Japan, Oman, Qatar and the UAE. Centara’s portfolio comprises six brands – Centara Reserve, The Centara Collection, Centara Grand, Centara, Centara Life and COSI Hotels – ranging from luxury island retreats and upscale family resorts to affordable lifestyle concepts supported by innovative technology. 

Find out more about Centara at www.CentaraHotelsResorts.com.

(Source: Centara Hotels & Resorts).

Tourism Malaysia backs China payment tool 

PUTRAJAYA, 12 January 2026: Tourism Malaysia and Weixin Pay have formalised a strategic collaboration through the signing of a Memorandum of Collaboration (MoC), marking a significant milestone in strengthening Malaysia’s tourism promotion efforts and enhancing the overall travel experience for Chinese visitors.

The collaboration reflects both parties’ mutual commitment to leverage their respective strengths, resources, and expertise to promote Malaysia as a preferred destination for Chinese travellers, while supporting the sustainable growth and digital transformation of Malaysia’s tourism industry.

Representatives from Tourism Malaysia and Weixin Pay at the MoC signing ceremony. (From left) YBhg Datuk Manoharan Periasamy, Chairman of Tourism Malaysia; Mohd Amirul Rizal Abdul Rahim, Director General of Tourism Malaysia; Etienne Ng, Weixin Pay’s Regional Director, Southeast Asia and Country Manager, Singapore; and Ben Yang, Weixin Pay’s Managing Director, Southeast Asia and North America.

Director General of Tourism Malaysia Mohd Amirul Rizal said: “China remains one of Malaysia’s most important tourism source markets. Today’s Chinese travellers expect seamless digital integration throughout their journey, from trip planning to payment solutions. This strategic collaboration with Weixin Pay represents an important step forward in strengthening Malaysia’s presence in the Chinese market, enhancing engagement with potential visitors, and providing strong momentum for the Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) campaign.”

Weixin Pay Managing Director for Southeast Asia and North America Ben Yang said: “Weixin Pay is committed to strengthening its presence in Malaysia and across the region by working closely with local partners to deliver smooth cross-border payment experiences. This collaboration will enable our users to fully explore Malaysia’s unique attractions and vibrant culture, offering an experience that feels both exciting and reassuringly familiar.”

Aligned with the MoC, Tourism Malaysia and Weixin Pay will work closely on joint digital marketing initiatives, technology adoption, and integrated promotional efforts to enhance Malaysia’s visibility and engagement in the Chinese market. This will also support Malaysian merchants in leveraging WeixinPay’s comprehensive suite of digital tools, enabling more seamless, convenient, and cashless experiences for Chinese visitors throughout their journey in Malaysia.

Weixin Pay has seen rapid adoption across Malaysia’s transportation, dining and retail sectors, including key touchpoints such as the KLIA Ekspres airport rail link and Pavilion Kuala Lumpur. Collaboration between Weixin Pay and Payments Network Malaysia (PayNet) continues to deepen, with a growing number of Malaysian SMEs now accepting Weixin Pay via DuitNow QR, enabling Chinese visitors to make payments effortlessly with their preferred method.

The impact of this digital integration is reflected in transaction data for the first half of 2025, as both Weixin Pay’s transaction value and transaction volume in Malaysia recorded several-fold year-on-year growth. During China’s National Day and Mid-Autumn Festival holidays in October, transactions processed through PayNet increased more than threefold in both volume and value compared to the same period in 2024.

At the same time, Malaysia’s tourism industry continues to record strong growth momentum, with international visitor arrivals reaching 38.3 million from January to November 2025, a 12% increase compared to the same period last year. This positive performance is further strengthened by robust growth from key source markets, particularly China, which recorded 4.3 million visitor arrivals, representing a 25.9% year-on-year increase, underscoring China’s continued importance to Malaysia’s tourism recovery and expansion strategy.

With the mutual visa-free policy between Malaysia and China taking effect in July 2025, cross-border travel between the two countries has entered a new phase of robust, sustained growth. This collaboration is expected to deepen tourism exchanges, strengthen bilateral cooperation, and deliver tangible benefits to both nations.

The signing of this MoC underscores the shared commitment of Tourism Malaysia and Weixin Pay to position Malaysia as a competitive, digitally enabled and welcoming destination for the China market, reinforcing the nation’s readiness to welcome the world for Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026).

(Source: Tourism Malaysia)

Bangkok Airways’ New Year Super Sale

BANGKOK, 12 January 2026: Bangkok Airways welcomes 2026 with its special airfare promotion, “New Year Super Sale,” covering popular domestic and international routes. 

Fares start at THB1,430 per sector for domestic flights and THB2,930 per sector for international flights for bookings made exclusively on the airline’s website by midnight on 14 January 2026, with travel commencing from 1 February 2026. 

The promotional fares include airport taxes, fuel surcharges (for international routes), and ticketing fees, subject to the airline’s terms and conditions. The promotion covers 20 domestic and international routes (round-trip). 

Domestic destinations served from BKK:

Chiang Mai, Sukhothai, Trat, Phuket, and Krabi, 

Cross-country routes:

U-Tapao–Phuket, U-Tapao–Samui, Phuket–Hat Yai,  Phuket–Samui, Krabi–Samui, Chiang Mai–Phuket (one-way), Chiang Mai–Krabi (one-way), Chiang Mai–Samui and Chiang Mai–Bangkok–Samui. 

International destinations served from BKK:

Luang Prabang, Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and the Maldives.

International destinations served from Samui

Singapore and Hong Kong.

(Source: Bangkok Airways)

Indonesia AirAsia flies to Da Nang

JAKARTA, 12 January 2026: Indonesia AirAsia will launch a new international route between Bali and Da Nang, Vietnam, on 20 March 2026. 

It will become the seventh international route served by Indonesia AirAsia from its Bali hub, strengthening Southeast Asian tourism flows between Indonesia and Vietnam.

“This new service strengthens tourism connectivity across Southeast Asia, giving travellers seamless access between Bali and Da Nang, a route operated exclusively by Indonesia AirAsia. With Vietnam joining AirAsia’s existing connections across Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand and Australia, travellers now enjoy greater choice, flexibility and convenience when exploring destinations throughout the ASEAN region,” said Indonesia AirAsia Acting President Director, Captain Achmad Sadikin Abdurachman.

Vietnam welcomed more than 19 million international visitors in the first 11 months of 2025, up approximately 20.9% from the same period the previous year. This growth underscores Vietnam’s position as one of Southeast Asia’s leading tourism destinations. The Southeast Asian market, including Indonesia, grew 13.8%, with Vietnam as one of its contributing source markets.

Meanwhile, Indonesia received 13.9 million international visitors during the same period, including 80,313 from Vietnam. This reflects the growing potential for two-way tourism exchange between the two countries.

Da Nang, Vietnam’s fifth-largest city, has gained increasing popularity among travellers and on social media, driven by its pristine beaches, modern urban atmosphere, vibrant nightlife, and rows of street-side cafés that offer visually appealing experiences. Located along Vietnam’s central coast, the city also boasts rich cultural and natural attractions, including its iconic lantern festivals. It serves as a gateway to renowned nearby destinations, including Hoi An and Hue.

Meanwhile, Bali has long been recognised as one of Southeast Asia’s premier tourism destinations, offering a diverse range of attractions, from the cultural heart of Ubud and popular beaches such as Kuta, Seminyak, and Nusa Dua, to the natural beauty of Uluwatu and Nusa Penida. Supported by well-developed tourism infrastructure and an extensive international flight network, Bali serves as a strategic gateway for travellers continuing their journeys to various international destinations.

Flight Schedule from Bali (DPS) to Da Nang (DAD)

(Source: Indonesia AirAsia)

Air Cambodia boosts Vietnam flights

PHNOM PENH, 12 January 2026: Air Cambodia will launch three new direct flights this week from Techo International Airport (KTI) to popular tourist destinations in Vietnam.

The airline confirmed the new direct flights from Phnom Penh’s gateway airport to Da Nang, Nha Trang and the holiday island of Phu Quoc on its Facebook page with promotional fares starting at USD100 (one way). The airline deploys its 70-seat ATRs on the routes.

Da Nang

Flights between Phnom Penh and Da Nang, effective 15 January, are scheduled for Monday and Thursday, departing Phnom Penh (KTI) at 1330 and arriving in Da Nang (DAD) at 1240. A third flight is scheduled to depart every Sunday at 1650 from Phnom Penh, arriving in Da Nang at 1900.

Phu Quoc

Flights to Phu Quoc Island start on 16 January, with four weekly flights on Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday, departing Phnom Penh at 1110 and arriving in Phu Quoc (PQC) at 1215.

The return flights depart Phu Quoc (PQC) at 1245 and arrive in Phnom Penh (KTI) at 1350.

Nha Trang

Nha Trang joins the airline’s network on 17 January. The twice-weekly direct flights (Tuesday and Saturday) depart from Phnom Penh at 1410 and arrive in Nha Trang 1545. The return flights depart Nha Trang at 1615 and arrive in Phnom Penh at 1750.  

(Source: Air Cambodia)

Etihad schedules Luxembourg flights

ABU DHABI, 12 January 2026: Etihad Airways confirms it will start flights to Luxembourg this October, making it the first airline from the Middle East to serve the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg. 

Services will commence on 29 October 2026 from its Abu Dhabi home. Bookings are already open on the airline’s website and through online travel agencies. A round-trip economy fare starts at EUR2,708 for the six-hour and 30-minute flight.

Photo credit: Etihad. Luxembourg’s UNESCO world heritage-listed old town.

The new route reflects growing demand from travellers across Luxembourg, the Benelux region, France and Germany for direct access to Abu Dhabi.

Services will operate from Luxembourg Airport (LUX), providing guests with direct access to Abu Dhabi, the UAE’s vibrant capital.

Flights will operate three times per week (Monday, Thursday, and Saturday) on Etihad’s A321LR, configured with a three-class cabin.

The route will enhance connectivity for both business and leisure travellers and further strengthen economic and cultural ties between the EU and the UAE. With Luxembourg also serving as a gateway market for neighbouring France, Germany and Belgium, the new service strengthens Etihad’s presence across these broader European markets.

Etihad Airways, Chief Executive Officer Antonoaldo Neves said: “This route is about more than connectivity — it is about building new bridges between Europe and the UAE, unlocking opportunities for business, tourism and cultural exchange.”

Guests will also benefit from access to Etihad’s expansive global network, with seamless onward connections through Abu Dhabi’s state-of-the-art Zayed International Airport (AUH) to a wide range of countries, including popular destinations in Thailand, Singapore, South Korea, Japan, Indonesia and India.

Travellers from Abu Dhabi and across Etihad’s network can discover the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, a European gem renowned for its castles, UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town, blending historic charm with modern European sophistication.

Flight schedule

(Source: Etihad)

Malaysia Airlines resumes flights to Chengdu

KUALA LUMPUR, 12 January 2026: Malaysia Airlines has resumed flights from its home base in Kuala Lumpur to Chengdu, reinforcing its commitment to the Greater China market and strengthening connectivity between Malaysia and Western China.

The inaugural MH526 flight departed Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) Terminal 1 to Chengdu Tianfu International Airport (TFU) on 9 January 2026 and achieved an impressive load factor of 91% on its outbound leg. 

Photo credit: Malaysia Airlines.

The event was attended by representatives from Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), including Sagar Sanjay Dighe, Chief Executive Officer of MAG Culinary Solutions; Dersenish Aresandiran, Chief Commercial Officer of Airline Business; and Ibrahim Mohd Salleh, Chief Operating Officer of AeroDarat Services, marking a celebratory and memorable send-off for the new route.

With the addition of Chengdu, Malaysia Airlines now serves seven destinations across Greater China, reflecting continued confidence in the market. Operating daily, the direct route is expected to support growing two-way travel demand and strengthen business and leisure connectivity, and offer passengers seamless onward connections via Kuala Lumpur to destinations across ASEAN, South Asia, and Australasia. 

The timing of the service aligns with the extension of mutual visa-free travel arrangements between Malaysia and China, enabling longer stays and encouraging greater travel flows between both countries.

(Source: Malaysia Airlines)

Royal Garden brand expands in HK

SINGAPORE, 9 January 2026: Hong Kong’s Royal Garden hotel brand is expanding for the first time in 44 years with the opening of The Royal Garden Kowloon East in Tseung Kwan O in January 2026.

The 366-room urban resort is a restyled transformation of the former Crowne Plaza Kowloon East. As the developer that first created The Royal Garden in Tsim Sha Tsui in 1981, Sun Hung Kai Properties has reimagined the property for a new era while preserving its signature quiet elegance.

Photo credit: Royal Garden Kowloon East.

This serene escape from the city’s hectic pace features seven exclusive villas with private gardens, tailored for families, couples, and nature enthusiasts, and pet-friendly.

Dining will be elevated with the launch of Ponentino, which is inspired by The Royal Garden’s original and award-winning Sabatini Ristorante Italiano. Scheduled to open in July 2026, on the highest floor of the hotel, Ponentino will extend onto a spacious outdoor terrace, offering breathtaking views of Tseung Kwan O’s natural beauty, particularly at sunset. 

“This contemporary urban resort offers a redefined hospitality experience that caters to the evolving needs of modern travellers while retaining the essence of The Royal Garden legacy,” says General Manager Johnny Cheung. “The Royal Garden Kowloon East represents an exciting milestone for Sun Hung Kai Properties and will be an exciting new addition to Hong Kong’s hospitality scene.”

The Royal Garden Kowloon East will be unveiled in three phases in 2026. Guest rooms and suites this month; exclusive villas and family-focused amenities in March; and the final phase concluding in July with the grand opening of Ponentino.

Opening rate

Book directly at the hotel’s website using the promo code RGKE to receive 25% off, plus up to two complimentary breakfasts per room, daily. This limited-time offer is valid for bookings made until 31 March 2026. 

(Source: Royal Garden Kowloon East)

Sarawak’s drone epic breaks record

KUCHING, 9 January 2026: Sarawak ushered in 2026 in celebratory fashion, with a landmark Guinness World Record (GWR) achievement at the Kuching Waterfront, reaffirming the state’s position as the Gateway to Borneo and setting the tone for Visit Malaysia Year 2026.

Crowds gathered along the iconic waterfront on the night of 31 December 2025 to witness Countdown 2026, organised by the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak (MTCP). 

From left: YB Dato Sri Haji Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak; YB Datuk Amar Professor Dr Sim Kui Hian, Deputy Premier of Sarawak and Minister for Public Health, Housing and Local Government; and Mr Jacob Yip Chong Wai, Guinness World Records Adjudicator, during the presentation of the Guinness World Records certificate for the Longest Cumulative Distance by a Remote-Controlled Multirotor Drone Relay.

The celebration featured more than 10 performances by leading local, national, and international artists, culminating in a breathtaking musical fireworks display as the clock struck midnight.

In a landmark milestone for the state, Sarawak achieved the Guinness World Record for the Longest Cumulative Distance by a Remote-Controlled Multirotor/Drone Relay, marking a first-of- its-kind accomplishment. 

The record-setting journey covered 1,706.7 kilometres across Sarawak over six days, using successive GPS-tracked drones to trace an unbroken aerial path from Tanjung Datu to Lawas.

The achievement was officially confirmed on stage by Guinness World Records adjudicator Jacob Yip Chong Wai from Hong Kong, followed by the presentation of the GWR certificate to YB Dato Sri Haji Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts, Sarawak.

“This Guinness World Record achievement represents Sarawak’s confidence as a progressive, united and forward-looking state,” said YB Dato Sri Haji Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah. “It reflects who we are today, a Sarawak that embraces innovation while remaining deeply rooted in our culture, people, and landscapes. As the Gateway to Borneo, this moment belongs not only to Sarawak, but to the region we connect and the future we are shaping together.”

The announcement was accompanied by the world premiere of the “Gateway to Borneo” drone film, a cinematic showcase capturing Sarawak’s landscapes, cultures, and communities from a bird’s-eye perspective.

Looking ahead, the milestone underscored Sarawak’s readiness to build momentum for Visit Malaysia Year 2026 by leveraging creativity, technology, and storytelling to strengthen its position as a vibrant, globally relevant destination.

For more information on Sarawak attractions and tourism, visit: Sarawak Tourism Board

(Source: Sarawak Tourism Board).

The Philippines’ domestic holiday travel booms

MANILA, 9 January 2026: A surge in holiday travel during the Christmas long break underscored the strength of domestic tourism in the Philippines, the Department of Tourism reported, noting the popularity of beaches, heritage sites, mountain retreats, and island destinations.

Leading holiday destinations saw robust visitor turnout, with Boracay Island in Western Visayas recording the highest arrivals at 118,745 tourists from 15 to 28 December 2025, as Filipinos gathered to celebrate Christmas by the beach.

The region also welcomed cruise passengers during the holidays, with Star Navigator and Norwegian Sun making multiple port calls.

Photo credit: Department of Tourism Philippines.

In second and third place, Cebu City welcomed 102,124 visitors. At the same time, Panglao Island in Bohol hosted 62,240 tourists, reflecting sustained domestic travel to Central Visayas despite the region having faced a series of natural calamities earlier in the year. 

Meanwhile, Tacloban City in Eastern Visayas saw some 25,194 overnight guests. The most-visited tourist destination in the region was Malajog Beach in Calbayog City, Samar, with approximately 56,543 tourists.  

In the Cordilleras, Baguio City — long regarded as a favourite Christmas destination — recorded 117,137 visitors from 15 December to New Year’s Eve, drawn by its cool weather, festive lights, and seasonal sound-and-light shows. 

In Bicol, Camarines Sur attracted 92,000 visitors over the holiday break, while neighbouring Albay welcomed 45,000 tourists, many travelling along scenic routes framed by views of the iconic Mayon Volcano. 

Northern Luzon destinations also saw steady holiday traffic. La Union recorded 47,338 foreign and local visitors seeking a beach escape, while Ilocos Sur welcomed 32,232 tourists drawn to its heritage streets and coastal landscapes. Meanwhile, Nueva Vizcaya received 10,012 visitors, many opting for nature-based and countryside travel during the break. 

Island destinations remained popular for a “summer in December” experience. El Nido, Palawan, welcomed 40,000 tourists, while Coron recorded 17,850 visitors. Puerto Galera also drew 13,204 holiday travellers. 

In Mindanao, the Province of Sarangani in SOCCSKSARGEN* welcomed 26,191 visitors, reflecting growing interest in the region’s diverse landscapes. 

Siargao Island attracted 32,742 tourists, while Bukidnon recorded 9,488 visitors drawn to its rolling mountains and cool climate. Camiguin Island likewise welcomed 6,558 tourists during the Christmas season. 

In Metro Manila, the historic Walled City of Intramuros once again became a focal point for holiday visits, as Filipinos flocked to its illuminated streets, churches, and heritage landmarks. 

“The strength of domestic tourism in the Philippines remains a driving force of our travel industry. The Christmas holidays once again showed how Filipinos continue to explore and support our own destinations,” said Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco.  

“From ridge to reef, cities to heritage towns, domestic travel helps communities recover and thrive, boosts the economy, and supports more equitable  tourism development across our regions.” 

ASEAN Tourism Forum 2026

DOT is spearheading preparations for the 45th ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF), 28 to 30 January, with the Cebu City Tourism Commission hosting cultural and heritage activities for delegates attending the three-day Travex travel mart.

“As we prepare for ASEAN Tourism Forum 2026, we are confident in the Philippines’ readiness to welcome our ASEAN neighbours with excellence and warmth,” Secretary Frasco added.  

“Through this milestone event, we aim to showcase the Filipino brand of hospitality while strengthening regional cooperation and building a resilient, competitive tourism industry for the future.”

SOCCSKSARGEN

*Acronym for its core areas: SOuth Cotabato, Cotabato (Province), Sarangani, Koronadal (City, the regional centre), Sultan Kudarat, and General Santos (City).

Manila airport passenger volume peaks

Meanwhile, the Philippines News Agency reports that passenger traffic at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) reached nearly 2.6 million during the holiday season, up 6.86% year over year (YoY).

New NAIA Infra Corp (NNIC) released traffic data for 20 December to 4 January, showing a passenger volume of 2,589,889. Flights also increased 3.29% YoY, with 13,766 flights during the holiday break.

(Source: DOT Philippines and PNA)