SINGAPORE, 11 September 2025: ITA Airways and United Airlines announce a new codeshare agreement to increase connectivity between Italy and the USA, enhancing travel options for passengers of both carriers.
Codeshare tickets are on sale through the two airlines for travel beginning 15 September.
Photo credit: ITA. Codeshare tickets on sale through the two airlines for travel beginning 15 September.
The agreement supports ITA Airways’ network expansion strategy, which focuses on increasing long-haul connections and expanding the number of intercontinental destinations accessible from its Rome Fiumicino hub..
“The codeshare agreement with United Airlines represents a significant step forward in ITA Airways’ strategy to expand its network to new intercontinental destinations, said ITA Airways CEO and General Manager Joerg Eberhart. “Through this partnership, we are strengthening our presence in the US market, offering passengers the opportunity to reach additional destinations in the United States via connections granted by our new important partner, United Airlines.”
This initiative is part of a broader growth plan in international markets, which is expected to progress with ITA Airways joining Star Alliance in 2026, following continued integration into the Lufthansa Group.
United has served Italy for over 33 years and today offers nonstop services from Rome, Milan, Naples, Venice and Palermo to the US.
Along with the announcement of this codeshare agreement comes the added benefit for passengers of earning and redeeming points in their respective frequent flyer programmes, Volare for ITA Airways and MileagePlus for United Airlines. Passengers of both loyalty programmes will be able to access lounges depending on their tier.
ITA Airways passengers can explore new destinations across the American continent via United Airlines, such as Dallas (DFW), Denver (DEN), Honolulu (HNL), Houston (IAH), and Newark (EWR), complementing ITA Airways’ current flights to Boston (BOS), Chicago (ORD), Los Angeles (LAX), Miami (MIA), New York (JFK), San Francisco (SFO), and Washington (IAD).
Meanwhile, United Airlines passengers will enjoy expanded travel options throughout Italy to popular domestic destinations such as Bari (BRI), Bologna (BLQ), Florence (FLR), Catania (CTA), and Turin (TRN).
They can also fly to other destinations in Europe and beyond, enabling more connection options to Rome (FCO) and Milan (LIN) through United’s gateways in Europe.
SINGAPORE, 11 September 2025: Digital travel platform Agoda invites travellers to embark on an artistic adventure through Asia’s most vibrant mural art neighbourhoods.
These destinations offer a unique blend of culture, creativity, and community, transforming city streets into open-air galleries.
Exploring street art while travelling offers a dynamic way to experience a city’s culture. An art walk not only provides a feast for the eyes but also a perfect backdrop for memorable photos. Asia is home to numerous mural art neighbourhoods, each telling its own story through vivid colours and imaginative designs. These artistic enclaves are must-visit spots for travellers seeking to capture the essence of a place beyond traditional tourist attractions.
Agoda has identified six neighbourhoods to experience the creativity that colours Asia’s cities:
George Town, Penang, Malaysia
Renowned for its interactive and historical murals, George Town’s street art narrates the stories of the local community and heritage, making it a cultural hotspot.
Ihwa Mural Village, Seoul, South Korea
This area in South Korea’s capital is an open-air gallery, with colourful murals that have revitalised the destination, drawing in art lovers from all over.
Charoen Krung, Bangkok, Thailand
As Bangkok’s creative district, the neighbourhood features murals that beautifully blend traditional Thai elements with modern artistic styles.
Bandra, Mumbai, India
Famous for its vibrant street art, Bandra hosts the Chapel Road murals, which showcase a mix of contemporary and traditional Indian themes.
Bonifacio Global City, Manila, Philippines
Known for its large-scale murals, BGC is a hub for art festivals that bring together local and international artists, creating a dynamic art scene.
Ximending, Taipei, Taiwan
A lively area with a youthful vibe, Ximending’s street art is diverse, reflecting both pop culture and traditional Taiwanese motifs.
Agoda Associate Vice President Jun Dong said: “Art isn’t confined to galleries; it’s alive on the streets, telling stories and expressing the soul of the city. From the vibrant hues of Penang to the eclectic vibes of Taipei, Asia’s street art scene is a testament to the region’s rich cultural tapestry. At Agoda, we believe art should be accessible to everyone, and these neighbourhoods offer a colourful canvas for travellers to enjoy.”
SINGAPORE, 11 September 2025: Royal Caribbean’s fourth Icon Class ship is officially under construction, following last week’s keel laying ceremony.
The moment took place at the Meyer Turku shipyard in Turku, Finland, where the first block of the ship’s keel was placed on top of a layer of freshly minted coins..
It marks the start of the ship’s physical construction that will continue to take shape over the next two years up to its 2027 maiden sailing.
The teams at Royal Caribbean and Meyer Turku sealed the deal — and good fortune — by placing a layer of freshly minted coins before the enormous steel block, known as the keel, was lowered into place.
Joining the ranks of Icon, Star and Legend of the Seas, the yet-to-be-named fourth Icon Class ship, when completed, will deliver a combination of experiences that defines the game-changing Icon Class.
ABU DHABI, 11 September 2025: Etihad Airways is set to expand its Asian network with direct flights from Abu Dhabi to Chiang Mai, Thailand, Hanoi, Vietnam and Hong Kong, China this November.
Chiang Mai (CNX): Starting 3 November 2025, the airline will fly direct to the northern Thailand city, famous for its ancient temples, colourful night markets, and rich cultural traditions.
Etihad’s A321LR opens services to more destinations in Asia.
Often called the “Rose of the North,” Chiang Mai invites visitors to wander through its historic Old Town, experience vibrant festivals, and enjoy easy access to mountain adventures and ethical elephant encounters.
Etihad will fly the route three times weekly on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday using its A321LR aircraft configured with 184 seats. Flight time is five hours and 55 minutes.
Hong Kong (HKG): Starting 3 November 2025: Discover the energetic metropolis of Hong Kong with five flights weekly. As a global financial hub and cultural melting pot, Hong Kong offers an iconic skyline, world-class shopping, diverse cuisine, and unique attractions like the Peak, Victoria Harbour, and vibrant markets. The route’s resumption after several years reinforces Etihad’s commitment to connecting Abu Dhabi with key international cities.
Hanoi (HAN): Starting 3 November 2025: Experience the vibrant capital of Vietnam, known for its rich history, bustling Old Quarter, tranquil lakes, and delectable street food. Hanoi seamlessly blends centuries-old architecture and French colonial influences with a vibrant contemporary culture. Daily flights will provide convenient access to this captivating city, inviting travellers to explore its temples, markets, and nearby natural beauty.
This expansion reflects Etihad’s strategic growth in the region, complementing its already extensive network of Southeast Asian destinations such as Bangkok, Phuket, Seoul, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur and more.
KATHMANDU, 11 September 2025: Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) reopened for international flights as of 1700 local time on Wednesday, 10 September.
The airport had been closed for two days due to security concerns stemming from ongoing protests in Kathmandu. The decision to resume operations was made after a review by the airport’s security committee.
Photo credit: Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA).
Passengers are advised to contact their respective airlines to confirm flight schedules when they will resume flights, possibly early morning on 11 September.
Following escalating anti-government protests, Nepal’s gateway Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) closed all flight operations since 9 September.
Civil protests and clashes with the police continue in the capital and other towns and cities across Nepal. While a government ban on social media initially sparked the protests, they have escalated into a broader anti-government movement driven by deep-seated anger over political corruption, nepotism, and a lack of economic opportunities, particularly among the country’s youth, often referred to as ‘Gen Z.’
Despite the prime minister’s resignation and the lifting of the social media ban, protests in Kathmandu continue. Demonstrators defied curfews, clashing with riot police and burning government buildings, including the Parliament building, and the private residences of top politicians.
Protests countrywide
The protests are no longer confined to the capital. They have spread to other major cities, including Itahari in the east, as well as Birgunj, Bhairahawa, Butwal, Pokhara, and Damak. Reports indicate that violence and clashes with security forces have also occurred in these locations.
High tensions
The situation remains volatile. The government’s use of lethal force, which resulted in at least 19 deaths, has only intensified the public’s rage. The protests are now demanding more than just a reversal of the social media ban; they are calling for the dissolution of parliament and the resignation of all government officials involved in the crackdown.
Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu was closed following escalating protests, and a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) was issued. Flights have been given the green light after authorities rescinded the NOTAM.
BANGKOK, 10 September 2025: Centara Hotels & Resorts is raising the bar for hotel dining in the Thai capital with the appointment of three new chefs across its Bangkok properties, each shaped by Michelin-starred kitchens in Cádiz, Rome, and Hong Kong. These aren’t new restaurants.
They’re Bangkok institutions. But with global talent now leading the line, they’re reaching new heights. Sharper, more expressive, and more ambitious than ever before.
Chef Borja Terry Borrego (left) from UNO MAS restaurant at Centara Grand at CentralWorld, Chef Jacky Tse Chi Wai (middle) fromDynasty restaurant at Centara Grand at Central Plaza Ladprao and Chef Luca Russo from Red Sky restaurant at Centara Grand at CentralWorld.
The refreshed lineup signals a confident new chapter for Centara Grand hotels in Bangkok’s portfolio: 10 venues across two properties, spanning French surf & turf, Spanish fire cooking, Cantonese banquets, royal Thai cuisine, and rooftop chocolate-and-cognac pairings. This is hotel dining with real identity—rooted in place, driven by intent, and reimagined for a new generation of guests.
Leading the charge is Chef Borja Terry Borrego, the new force behind UNO MAS at Centara Grand at CentralWorld. A native of Cádiz and alumnus of Michelin-starred Hide in London and StreetXO in Madrid, Chef Borja infuses the 54th-floor fire kitchen with Iberian energy and signature-dining precision.
At just 30 years old, he brings both discipline and dynamism to the role: a fresh talent for one of Bangkok’s most elevated Spanish restaurants. Dishes emerge from Josper grills and feature seasonal seafood flown in from Spain. Think wood-fired paella, seafood towers, and vermouth-soaked tapas with a contemporary rhythm that feels right at home above Bangkok’s skyline.
“We want UNO MAS to be a place where guests can feel the soul of Spain in every bite with honest flavours, precision, and warmth,” says Chef Borja.
Two storeys up, at Red Sky, Chef Luca Russo brings a Roman sensibility and minimalist clarity to one of Bangkok’s most iconic rooftop restaurants.
Mediterranean ingredients meet French technique in a composed menu of dry-aged meats, ocean-fresh seafood, and curated wine flights, all against a 360-degree skyline backdrop. Signature plates include beef Rossini, lobster risotto, and seasonal dishes that reflect Chef Luca’s modern bistronomy roots.
Red Sky is about balance,” he says. “Bold ingredients, simple presentation, and a view that does the talking. I want every dish to showcase confidence in simplicity — where each ingredient is treated with respect and nothing is unnecessary.”
To round out the experience, guests can ascend to COCOA XO, Bangkok’s only rooftop chocolate and cognac bar. Tucked inside a sculptural cocoa pod on the 57th floor of Centara Grand at CentralWorld, the venue combines immersive design with indulgent pairings. Pralines are piped by hand, rare cognacs are poured with quiet ceremony, and every visit unfolds like a tasting performance.
A recent collaboration with Italy’s Domori, one of the world’s most revered fine chocolate makers, introduced new tasting flights that match single-origin chocolates (75% and 100%) with a rotating selection of XO cognacs. The result is a bar that treats cocoa with the same reverence as whiskey or wine—deep, complex, and unforgettable.
Across the city at Centara Grand at Central Plaza Ladprao, Dynasty is entering a bold new phase under the leadership of Chef Jacky Tse Chi Wai. Fresh off his Iron Chef Thailand 2025 victory, the Bangkok-born chef brings sharp technique and a subtle touch, whether in his signature XO sauce, delicately layered banquet dishes, or artful dim sum.
“Winning Iron Chef Thailand is not the finish line,” he says. “At Dynasty, it’s a starting point to bring classic Cantonese cuisine into the present with refined skill and clear intention.”
Recent updates include a reimagined dim sum tasting menu and seasonal banquets that layer heritage flavours with contemporary technique. With understated service, elegant private rooms, and an emphasis on technique over theatrics, Dynasty is where old-guard sophistication meets new-school confidence.
Just downstairs, Suan Bua — Centara’s longest-running Thai dining concept — channels a different kind of refinement. Here, royal recipes and regional Thai traditions meet a wellness-forward approach.
The à la carte menu sits alongside a buffet grounded in Thailand’s “food as medicine” philosophy, spotlighting healing herbs, anti-inflammatory broths, and nutrient-rich ingredients. The kitchen also works closely with local nutritionists to incorporate adaptogens like black galingale and turmeric, chosen to support immunity, balance, and digestion while honouring centuries of culinary wisdom.
Whether sky-high or garden-side, heritage-driven or globally inspired, each venue in Centara’s Bangkok portfolio carries a clear sense of self — and an appetite for evolution.
In a city where dining is as discerning as it is diverse, that kind of intent, clarity, and constant reinvention still sets a table apart. For more information about Centara, visit www.centarahotelsresorts.com
DUBAI, UAE, 10 September 2025: Emirates has announced that its A380 services to New York JFK will all feature four cabin classes, including the award-winning Premium Economy cabin.
The direct flights EK201/202, which serve the daily Dubai/ New York JFK service, are scheduled to operate with Premium Economy from 1 December.
In addition, Emirates’ other daily services via Milan, operating as EK205/206, will feature the signature Premium Economy experience from 10 November. Customers travelling between Dubai and Milan will now have the freedom to select Premium Economy seats from two daily flights, including the other service on EK091/092.
The new upgrades to Emirates’ Dubai – New York service will complement flights EK203/204, which already serve customers daily with the Premium Economy cabin, promising exceptional levels of comfort on long-haul journeys.
Tickets in Premium Economy can be booked immediately on emirates.com, the Emirates App, or via both online and offline travel agents, as well as at Emirates retail stores.
The re-configured A380 aircraft to operate as EK201/202 and EK205/206 will offer seats in First Class, Business Class, Premium Economy and Economy Class, providing expanded options for customers to choose from, whether travelling for business or leisure.
These additions will expand Emirates’ network of destinations offering Premium Economy on its fleet of A380s, B777s and A350 aircraft to 68 global points by March 2026, underscoring the airline’s commitment to investing in the very best customer experience in the sky and adding more premium cabin options, consistency and choice across geographies.
Emirates’ latest cabin features on board the four-class A380 are available on key routes to Australasia and Asia, including Sydney, Singapore, Osaka, Mumbai, Bangalore, and more.
On a four-class Emirates A380, the Premium Economy cabin is located at the front of the main deck with 56 seats laid out in a 2-4-2 configuration. Each seat offers generous pitch and width for working and relaxing, as well as customised features like in-seat charging points and a side cocktail table. The onboard experience is rounded off with meticulously selected in-flight amenities, a curated menu, and extensive beverage options, including the Chandon Vintage Brut 2016, a global exclusive to Emirates Premium Economy passengers.
BANGKOK, 10 September 2025: The Ascott Limited Thailand (Ascott) has entered into a strategic partnership with Phuket HA 3 Co Ltd and Above Patong Residence Co Ltd to manage and brand the Ascott Abov Patong Phuket development.
An integrated destination comprising the Ascott Abov Patong Phuket Resort and Residences at Ascott Abov Patong Phuket marks Ascott’s first resort and branded residences in Phuket. Located just 150 metres from Patong Beach, the development will comprise 482 units across both resort and residential components.
Left to right: Saowarin Chanprakaisi, Vice President, Business Development, The Ascott Limited; Kanit Sangmookda, Country General Manager, Thailand & Laos, The Ascott Limited; Wuthikrai Kulsirisawad, Chief Executive Officer, Phuket HA 3 Co Ltd and Above Patong Residence Co Ltd; Nada Anerutteva, Chief Marketing Officer, Phuket HA 3 Co Ltd and Above Patong Residence Co Ltd.
Ascott Abov Patong Phuket Resort will offer accommodation ranging from deluxe rooms to two-bedroom suites, with facilities including two swimming pools, an executive lounge, a fitness centre, a kids’ club, and various recreational activities. Dining options will feature an all-day dining restaurant, a speciality restaurant, a rooftop bar, and a pool bar.
Residences at Ascott Abov Patong Phuket will feature one- and two-bedroom apartments with pool access, garden views, or sea views. Both freehold and leasehold ownership options will be available.
Ascott currently manages 26 properties across Bangkok, Pattaya, and Sri Racha, with three more properties in the pipeline. The addition of Ascott Abov Patong Phuket further reinforces Ascott’s position as one of the leading international lodging operators in Thailand.
TAIPEI, 10 September 2025: Taiwan’s two premier accommodation brands, Taiwan Host B&B and Star Hotels, made their debut at last week’s MATTA Fair 2025 Autumn edition held at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC), Malaysia.
The Taiwan Pavilion at the MATTA Fair showcased its ‘Warm Hospitality of Taiwan’ campaign through interactive programmes, including Taiwan Host sharing sessions, travel trivia challenges, and social media prize draws. Show visitors also had the chance to win round-trip tickets between Kuala Lumpur and Taiwan.
Taiwan Host B&B is an official certification brand that emphasises six core values: friendliness, warmth, cleanliness, hygiene, safety, and quality service.
Certified B&Bs provide guests with comfortable accommodations and attentive service. To date, more than 1,900 Taiwan Host B&Bs have been recognised nationwide. Of these, 100 have been recognised as Gold-Rated Taiwan Host B&Bs, grouped into five themes — Nature & Ecology, Cultural Discovery, Architectural Charm, Family & Pet Travel, and Culinary Delights — providing travellers with a wide range of unique experiences.
Star-rated Hotels, Taiwan’s other official accommodation brand, are certified through a rigorous evaluation process in which mystery inspectors assess over 500 criteria covering facilities and service quality. Hotels are rated from one to five stars, with an additional ‘Five-Star Excellence’ category for top-tier properties. Nearly 200 certified Star Hotels are now available across Taiwan, serving as a trusted guide for travellers seeking quality and reliability.
Muslim-Friendly Lodgings and Taiwan Host Dual Certification
To better serve Malaysian Muslim travellers, Taiwan has highlighted 24 properties that are dual-certified as both Muslim-Friendly Lodgings and Taiwan Host B&Bs. These accommodations are displayed on a distribution map with QR codes that link directly to their websites and social media pages, making it easy for visitors to access information and book a stay. This initiative combines the Taiwan Host brand’s spirit of hospitality with Muslim-friendly services, offering guests peace of mind, convenience, and comfort.
HO CHI MINH CITY, Vietnam, 10 September 2025: In 1995, when few saw potential in Burma’s waterways, Paul Strachan and his wife, Roser, recognised an opportunity to restore a historic Clyde-built steamer from the Irrawaddy Flotilla Company.
This marked the birth of Pandaw Cruises and the beginning of a new style of intimate, culturally immersive travel in Southeast Asia. Three decades later, that single vessel has grown into a fleet of 13 river cruise ships, offering journeys across Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, Laos, and India.
“We set out to create a kind of travel that did not exist in Southeast Asia at the time, building small, cultural expeditions where the river itself offered as much character as the ports we visited,” said Pandaw. CEO and Founder Paul Strachan.
“Thirty years later, we are still doing that. The ships are more numerous and the routes more diverse, but the philosophy remains unchanged. We go where others do not, and we do so in a way that respects the people and places along the way.”
Planning for the Future Amid Growing Demand
With 3,500 passengers travelling in the 2024–2025 season and more than 5,500 already booked for 2025–2026, Pandaw is shaping its next chapter.
To support this growth, Antoni Strachan has been appointed Director of Operations, and Yves Van Kerrebroeck has joined the team as Commercial Director, bringing fresh perspectives to operations, strategy, and guest experience.
These leadership moves position the company to expand its reach, refine service, and launch new itineraries, including the upcoming Kerala Backwaters expedition in October 2025, as well as potential expansion into Europe, exploring new routes along Italy’s Veneto and Po rivers.
With over 10,000 members and a 45% repeat guest rate, Pandaw’s strength is its community. “A river cruise isn’t just about ships or schedules,” says Toni Strachan. “It’s about the connections we create between our crew and guests and between travellers and the places they visit.
“Many of these connections last long after the journey, with guests returning year after year. As we look to the future, we’re excited to find new ways for our guests to connect with the rivers, the cultures, and each other, all while keeping the Pandaw spirit alive.”
Celebrating 30 Years of River Cruising
Marking its 30th anniversary, Pandaw is celebrating with a suite of new tools designed to elevate the guest experience. Testing is currently underway of an AI-powered travel assistant offering real-time guidance and personalised recommendations, ensuring travellers have the information they need whenever they need it. The redesigned loyalty programme provides early booking privileges, exclusive rewards, and special offers for returning guests, further enhancing the value of every voyage.
Meanwhile, a newly launched mobile app puts bookings, onboard schedules, and daily menus directly in guests’ hands, streamlining every aspect of the journey from planning to cruising.
In addition to these technological enhancements, Pandaw has introduced a new podcast series entitled Teak & Tales that brings the world of river cruising to life. Listeners can explore behind-the-scenes stories, hear expert insights from the crew, and discover highlights from destinations across Southeast Asia. The podcast aims to inspire future adventures while complementing the immersive experiences guests enjoy on board.
Looking Ahead
From the restoration of a single steamer to bold plans that span continents, Pandaw Cruises continues to chart a course defined by curiosity and a passion for rivers less travelled. As it embarks on its 30th season, the company remains committed to staying small enough to feel personal, yet ambitious enough to keep discovering what lies beyond the bend.
