SINGAPORE, 23 August 2024: Royal Brunei Airlines will suspend services to Beijing effective 27 October 2024, saying it’s a temporary measure until travel demand on the Bander Seri Begawan-Beijing route is restored.
The airline launched flights to Beijing in October 2019, paused service during the Covid-19 pandemic, and restarted flights in 2022.
The final flight to Beijing will be on 26 October 2024. RB operates flights to Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX) twice weekly on Thursday and Saturday. The flight using an A320 takes five hours and 25 minutes. The average roundtrip fare on the route is a healthy USD570. Flights from Bandar Seri Begawan
“RB will continue to monitor market conditions and aims to resume its services to Beijing once the current market conditions have improved. We sincerely apologise to the affected guests and are committed to assisting them with their travel plans to Beijing,” said RB Chief Executive Officer Sabirin Haji Abdul Hamid,
RB’s Beijing Longway International Travel Service, the general sales agent for China, continues to handle the account.
KUALA LUMPUR, 23 August 2024: AirAsia, in collaboration with the Singapore Tourism Board (STB), Gardens by the Bay and Mandai Wildlife Group unveiled the ‘Love, Singapore’ aircraft livery on Thursday.
The launch is part of a joint campaign to promote inbound travel to Singapore from visitors in Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia, riding on the region’s year-end travel peak.
This Airbus A320 aircraft livery features a special design showcasing Singapore’s iconic attractions, including Gardens by the Bay and Mandai Wildlife Group’s wildlife parks, such as Singapore Zoo and Bird Paradise. It also features Merli, Singapore’s energetic and outgoing brand character inspired by the Merlion. This livery aims to inspire regional travellers to rediscover Singapore’s diverse and vibrant experiences.
Singapore Tourism Board Executive Director Southeast Asia Terrence Voon commented: “We are delighted to partner with AirAsia and our tourism stakeholders to bring Singapore’s offerings to life in our regional skies. Our exciting lineup of events and experiences will give travellers plenty of reasons to visit or revisit Singapore this year, and we encourage them to take advantage of the great deals that will launch with the “Love, Singapore” aircraft livery to book their next holiday to Singapore.”
AirAsia Malaysia Managing Director Dato Captain Fareh Mazputra added: “Currently, we operate 286 flights weekly in and out of Singapore from Malaysia alone. The Kuala Lumpur-Singapore route, being the world’s busiest, is vital for boosting tourism, and this partnership is a perfect opportunity to leverage our extensive flight network to strengthen our ties between the neighbouring countries.”
“Gardens by the Bay is honoured to be featured in this collaboration between AirAsia and Singapore Tourism Board,” said Senior Director of Business Development Addison Goh, noting the gardens were recently voted the top attraction in Asia and eighth best attraction in the world in TripAdvisor’s 2024 Traveller’s Choice Awards.
“With ever-evolving experiences from close animal encounters to seasonal events like Night Safari’s 30th Anniversary, there’s always something new to explore in our parks,” concluded Mandai Wildlife Group Chief Sales and Marketing Officer Jean Choi.
SINGAPORE, 23 August 2024: Singapore Airlines will operate new daily services to Beijing Daxing International Airport starting 11 November in addition to its existing services to Beijing Capital International Airport.
The new daily flights to Beijing Daxing (PKY) use Boeing 787s departing Singapore at 0350 and arriving in PKY at 0635.
The airline increased flights to Beijing Capital International Airport from 18 to 21 weekly services on 5 August.
More flights to Johannesburg
Flights from Singapore to Johannesburg increase from the current daily to 10 flights weekly for the festive season months starting on 9 December 2024 until 10 January 2025. The additional three services will operate on Wednesday, Friday and Sunday using A350-900s with 259 seats.
Daily flights SIN-JNB
Flight SQ478 departs Singapore (SIN) at 0130 and arrives in Johannesburg (JNB) at 0619. Flight SQ479 departs Johannesburg at 1345 and arrives in Singapore at 0610 plus a day.
The flight duration is 10 hours and 55 minutes using A350-900s, and the average roundtrip fare logged on the route is USD1,270 for the daily service.
Three additional seasonal flights
Flight SQ482 departs Singapore (SIN) at 1635 and arrives in Johannesburg (JNB) at 2115. Flight SQ481 departs Johannesburg at 2230 and arrives in Singapore at 1445 plus a day.
The three additional seasonal flights are scheduled to return the route on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday from 2 April 2025 to 24 October 2025 (northern hemisphere summer timetable).
SINGAPORE, 23 August 2024: To enhance Emirates’ wine in the sky experience, where cabin crew invite customers to savour a collection of acclaimed wines and rare vintages, Emirates plans to further complement its world-class service with the recent launch of bespoke wine courses for cabin crew, L’art du vin.
The new programme was designed by the Emirates Crew Training design team and officially launched in June 2024 at the Emirates Cabin Crew Training College, Dubai. In a dedicated classroom replicating a high-end lounge, there are three intensive wine courses tailored to varying levels of knowledge – L’art du vin Introduction, L’art du vin – Business Class and L’art du vin – First Class.
As part of Emirates’ continuous investment in people and products, more than 1,000 Emirates cabin crew have already completed a course. Emirates aims to train more than 22,000 additional cabin crew by 2026.
L’art du vin for all levels of experience
Each level of L’art du vin is designed to support varying knowledge and experience. The L’art du vin introduction course targets Emirates’ newly recruited cabin crew and covers Emirates’ investment into wine, facts about wine and the wine-making process, white and red wine tasting, introduction to sparkling wines, how best to recommend wines and facilitates pouring techniques.
L’art du vin – Business Class takes the initial learning experience to a new level for more experienced cabin crew. To understand the structural characteristics of wine, students first sample flavoured waters to recognise acidity, dryness, sweetness and fruitiness, then move on to tasting the differences in grape pulp and skin. Students also learn about Emirates’ wine cellar, the wine regions of the world, and how the climate impacts wines, as well as explore Emirates’ red and white wine heroes, enjoying an introduction to champagne and port and how to pair wine and food together with bespoke tasting sessions perfectly. Cabin crew can also use the exclusive L’art du vin app during the training as a professional guide to the wines, allowing them to keep their own tasting and recommendation notes and prepare to interact with customers on their flights.
L’art du vin – First Class builds on the foundational knowledge acquired in Business Class and offers a deep dive into the world of Premier and Grand Cru Classè wines. This advanced course focuses on the prestigious 1855 Bordeaux classification, with detailed study sessions on premier cru class estates such as Château Cos d’Estournel 2006 from St. Estèphe, alongside the Grand Cru vineyards of Burgundy, including the illustrious Bâtard-Montrachet 2013 from Louis Latour. The curriculum extends beyond Bordeaux and Burgundy, exploring iconic wines worldwide. The cabin crew will gain expertise from the top producers from Spain, like Vega Sicilia Unico 2006 from Ribera del Duero and Italy’s Ornellaia 2012 from Bolgheri, Tuscany. The training also covers California’s Opus One 2012 from Napa Valley, ensuring a well-rounded knowledge of world-class wines. The programme also briefly introduces Dom Pérignon Champagne, Château d’Yquem Sauternes, and aged vintage ports from renowned houses such as Graham’s, Dow’s, and Sandeman. Wine and food pairing lessons take the cabin crew’s expertise to new heights, teaching the intricate balance between acidity, saltiness, sweetness, and umami. Cabin crew also learn to advise travellers on the perfect wine to complement their cheese selection.
Exceptional wines in every class
Emirates’ passion for providing the world’s best means that customers in all classes experience exceptional wines. For First Class customers, Emirates offers a remarkable range of vintages onboard from the celebrated regions of France, Australia, Spain, Italy and the USA. On select routes, First Class customers will be able to sample exquisite vintages such as the Louis Latour Chevalier-Montrachet Grand Cru Les Demoiselles 2014, the M. Chapoutier Ermitage Rouge Le Pavillon, 2012, or Penfolds Yattarna Chardonnay 2019, Vega Sicilia Unico 2006 Ribera del Duero, Ornellaia, Bolgheri Tuscany 2012 and Opus One Napa Valley 2012.
In Business Class, customers can savour an array of mature Bordeaux from the cellar from the spectacular 2009 vintage, including les Tourelles de Longueville 2009 on the UK and Americas routes, Sociando-Mallet 2009 on European routes, Château Lagrange 2009 on Middle Eastern routes and Larrivet Haut-Brion 2009 on far Eastern routes. Emirates buys wine from various producers across Burgundy, including Chassagne-Montrachet, Saint-Aubin, Pouilly-Fuissé and Chablis Premier Cru. Customers can also enjoy impressive Spanish wines served on select flights, like the Crognolo 2021 and Terre à Terre Cabernet-Shiraz from Australia.
In Premium Economy Class, customers receive a selection of sparkling vintage wine, premium red, and premium white wine. Examples include Chablis 2022 from Albert Bichot, the Woodcutters Shiraz 2021 from Torbreck in Barossa, and Domaine Chandon 2017 – a sparkling wine that is exclusive in the sky to Emirates Premium Economy.
In Economy Class, Emirates offers one red and one white wine, both of exceptionally high quality. Customers on all routes can relish Penfolds Koonunga Hill Shiraz Cabernet 2021, now onboard. Recent additions also include ‘AOP’ and ‘Biodynamic’ wines from M. Chapoutier, Domaines Baron de Rothschild, a South African Sauvignon Blanc from sustainability champion Gabb family and an Antinori Santa Cristina Cabernet Sauvignon red wine.
BANGKOK, 22 August 2024: BWH Hotels, the global hospitality enterprise comprising WorldHotels, Best Western Hotels & Resorts, and SureStay Hotels, is celebrating its expansion in Thailand with the opening of the Best Western Chaweng Samui, the brand’s inaugural property on this popular Thai resort island.
Nestled in the centre of Chaweng, Koh Samui’s liveliest tourist district, surrounded by shops and restaurants and a short walk from the soft sands of Chaweng Beach, the Best Western Chaweng Samui is perfect for families, couples, and adventure seekers who want to immerse themselves in the upbeat atmosphere of this vibrant destination.
Featuring 67 contemporary rooms and suites with modern amenities, guests can unwind in the hotel’s indoor swimming pool and savour international cuisine at the all-day dining restaurant. The property’s central location also puts travellers on the doorstep of Chaweng’s many attractions and activities, from daytime relaxation on Chaweng Beach to sensational shopping, world-class wellness options, cultural discoveries, and Koh Samui’s famous nightlife. Samui International Airport is a 10-minute drive away, and transfers can be arranged with the hotel.
“We are delighted to announce the opening of the Best Western Chaweng Samui, which puts guests in the heart of this popular tourist island. Koh Samui is one of Thailand’s most iconic destinations – a tropical jewel that blends laidback beachfront charm with an upbeat vibe. This new opening reflects our commitment to bringing our brand’s quality standards and service to guests across Asia,” said Olivier Berrivin, Vice President – APAC, BWH Hotels.
With the opening of the Best Western Chaweng Samui, BWH Hotels now offers 21 hotels and resorts across Thailand, with locations in key cities such as Bangkok to resort destinations like Koh Samui, Phuket, Pattaya, Hua Hin, and emerging areas including Buriram and Prachinburi.
About BWH Hotels BWH Hotels is a leading global hospitality enterprise comprised of three hotel companies: WorldHotels, Best Western® Hotels & Resorts, and SureStay Hotels. The enterprise boasts approximately 4,300 hotels in over 100 countries and territories worldwide*. With 19 brands across every chain scale segment, from economy to luxury, BWH Hotels suits the needs of developers and guests in every market.
BANGKOK, 22 August 2024: Minor Hotels, a global hospitality group with more than 550 hotels in 56 countries, has announced the arrival of the first NH Hotels & Resorts branded property in the Indian Ocean, with NH Maldives Kuda Rah Resort set to open its doors on 1 September 2024.
Located in South Ari Atoll, a 25-minute seaplane flight from the capital Malé, NH Maldives Kuda Rah will offer marine enthusiasts unparalleled access to some of the world’s most spectacular diving and snorkelling sites. Right in their backyard, holidaymakers will find the legendary Kuda Rah Thila, an underwater pinnacle teeming with coloured soft corals and marine life. The atoll is a well-known hotspot for the Maldives’ largest marine life, such as the whale shark and manta ray. More than 50 dive sites are just a short boat ride from the resort.
NH Maldives Kuda Rah Resort features 51 deluxe suites and villas, each boasting an inner courtyard or beach-facing pool, and generously sized between 90 to 231 sqm.
The hotel group named Christophe Adma as the NH Maldives Kuda Rah Resort General Manager.
The opening of NH Kuda Rah brings Minor Hotels’ portfolio of properties in the Maldives to eight and follows the debut of NH Collection to the archipelago last year. It also marks the third resort property globally under the NH Hotels & Resorts brand, following NH Marina Portimao Resort in Portugal and the opening last year of NH Boat Lagoon Phuket Resort in Thailand.
NH Maldives Kuda Rah Resort is 25 minutes away by seaplane from Malé, followed by a five to 10-minute speed boat or traditional Dhoni transfer.
SINGAPORE, 22 August 2024: If you are looking to make the most of your next overseas adventure and explore Asia in more depth, then check out Pandaw’s three river cruise options that deliver breathtaking combination expeditions of either 14 or 21 nights in the Mekong Region and India.
With inclusive flights, transfers and accommodation between cruises where necessary, a combo cruise is the perfect way to immerse yourself in Asia’s diverse cultures and experiences in one trip, all from the comfort of Pandaw’s luxury river ships.
The original Pandaw combo cruise sails through the dramatic valleys of the northern Mekong between Laos and Thailand and along the rarely explored Red River into the spectacular Halong Bay. The last remaining cabins for this popular combo are available through 2024/25. Due to scheduling restrictions, this itinerary will take a break for 25/26.
Pandaw’s newest and most adventurous combo expedition yet sees intrepid travellers sail along all navigable stretches of the Mekong River through Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos and Thailand. Taking advantage of high water in the early season, the cruise explores further upstream than any passenger vessel, including a crossing of the Tonle Sap Lake for a true adventure across Indochina. This exciting itinerary is sold out for 2024, and bookings for 2025 dates are filling up quickly.
The 14 and 21-night Ganges & Brahmaputra expeditions offer guests the chance to experience the wide variety of life in India. Sailing along the sacred Ganges before heading into the remote Northeast for an unforgettable journey along the Brahmaputra river, guests can experience India’s wide variety of life. New dates for 2025/26 have just been released for stateroom bookings, offering a chance to explore this iconic river aboard Pandaw.
DOHA, 22 August 2024: Qatar Airways Group has acquired a 25% stake in South Africa’s regional carrier, Airlink. This will support Qatar’s expansion across the African continent.
Airlink flies to more than 45 destinations in 15 African countries.
The investment will enhance a code-sharing partnership between the two airlines. The deal will bolster Qatar Airways’ Africa growth strategy and cement its role as a key driver to the continent’s economic success.
The partnership between Qatar Airways and Airlink seeks to align both carriers’ loyalty programmes – Qatar Airways Privilege Club and Airlink Skybucks.
Qatar Airways flies to 29 destinations in Africa after adding eight new destinations since December 2020 — Abidjan, Abuja, Accra, Harare, Kano, Luanda, Lusaka, and Port Harcourt. Flights have also resumed to Cairo and Alexandria.
SINGAPORE, 22 August 2024: The oneworld® alliance’s partnership with Elemental Cognition and its use of advanced AI capabilities in the EC AI Platform, powered by Google Cloud, will revolutionise the booking process for oneworld’s ‘Round the World’ tickets.
This innovative AI travel agent was designed to streamline booking intricate flight itineraries, addressing complex product rules and fluctuating flight availability. With the help of intuitive state-of-the-art AI technology, the new booking tool guides travellers in crafting elaborate itineraries that often involve multiple airlines, enhancing the global travel experience.
Powered by Google Cloud, the EC AI Platform provides the reliability, accuracy, and transparency necessary for oneworld to simplify the booking journey, enhancing the customer experience.
In just six months, oneworld used Elemental Cognition’s platform to successfully develop and deploy this multi-modal AI ticketing agent, which operates globally in real-time.
The ‘Round the World’ fares include all oneworld airlines, hundreds of destinations, and millions of flight combinations. Traditional airline booking engines struggle with these complex booking journeys, which can involve up to 16 stages. The smart oneworld AI travel agent, however, reliably overcomes this complexity, significantly enhancing the booking process.
KUALA LUMPUR, 22 August 2024: The Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) has designated Malaysia Aviation Group’s (MAG) airlines, namely Malaysia Airlines and Firefly, Official Airline Partner and Premier Sponsor of the MATTA Fair, scheduled from 6 to 8 September 2024 at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC) Kuala Lumpur.
As part of their partnership, MAG will offer travel promotions and offerings featuring flights and lifestyle products for all visitors attending the Fair.
This strategic partnership highlights MATTA’s ongoing commitment to enhancing the Fair’s offerings, providing visitors exclusive access to the best travel promotions and choices. The MAG Pavilion, strategically located on Level 3, spans a generous 11,000 sqft and is designed to welcome and engage visitors with various activities and offerings from the national airline.
MATTA President Nigel Wong commented: “We are happy to collaborate with MAG’s airlines for this MATTA Fair. Their involvement significantly enriches the event, reinforcing our commitment to delivering exceptional value and diverse travel choices to the visitors at the MATTA Fair.”
MAG Chief Commercial Officer of Airlines, Dersenish Aresandiran, commented: “Malaysia Aviation Group is honoured to continue supporting Malaysia’s largest travel fair, offering exclusive deals that are simply unmissable. We are excited to return as the official airline partner and premier sponsor of MATTA Fair 2024 through our sister airlines, Malaysia Airlines and Firefly. We invite everyone to join us at the fair, where we will offer enticing fares and packages while supporting customers’ end-to-end journeys with a range of products and services across the MAG ecosystem. This partnership reflects our dedication to revitalising the tourism sector with like-minded partners, furthering MAG’s commitment to the Visit Malaysia 2026 vision and solidifying Kuala Lumpur’s position as the gateway for Asia and beyond.”
During the MATTA Fair, MAG Airlines will offer exclusive discounts of up to 30% on airfares to domestic and international destinations within its network. This exclusive offer is valid from 6 to 8 September 2024 via the physical Fair and on the airlines’ online platforms from 5 to 16 September 2024 for immediate travel up to 31 August 2025.
Beyond flight promotions, attendees can look forward to appearances by iconic Manchester United legends, an innovative Virtual Reality experience showcasing the all-new Airbus A330neo seats, and highly anticipated announcements. The MAG Pavilion will redefine an experience anchored on cutting-edge advancements and immersive activities to offer an exceptional experience like never before.
In addition, Malaysia Airlines and Firefly will offer up to 15% off add-on bundle products MH Traveller’s Trio, Premium Bundle, and Value Bundle. Members of Malaysia Airlines’ award-winning travel and lifestyle loyalty programme, Enrich, will also enjoy an additional 5% off their bookings and 5x EnrichMoney points for EnrichMoney users.
In addition to airfare discounts, MAG will host the MATTA Fair Buyers’ Contest, giving away 23 return tickets, including Business Class tickets to destinations such as London and Sydney.
MATTA remains dedicated to providing a dynamic platform that promotes business opportunities for its members while meeting the evolving demands of consumers. This collaboration and partnership with MAG’s airlines are a testament to this mission, both through the MATTA Fair and beyond.
The MATTA Fair offers free admission and is open from 1000 to 2100 over three days, from Friday, 6 September to Sunday, 8 September 2024.
