Sunday, September 14, 2025
Home Blog Page 170

Sarawak strengthens Japan travel ties

KUCHING, Sarawak, 2 October 2024: Sarawak Tourism Board (STB), in collaboration with Tourism Malaysia, successfully participated in the Tourism Expo Japan (TEJ) 2024 from 26 to 29 September at Tokyo Big Sight. 

This year’s participation marked STB’s third year at TEJ, reinforcing its commitment to the Japanese market. Following the expo, STB held a a post-engagement session with key Japanese tourism players on 30 September 2024 at Dai-ichi Hotel Tokyo, further strengthening relationships and exploring future collaborations to boost Sarawak’s presence in Japan.

Organised by the Japan Association of Travel Agents (JATA), TEJ has been recognised as the largest travel expo in Japan since its inception in 2014. The expo brings together exhibitors and visitors worldwide, providing a platform for industry professionals to showcase destinations and engage in meaningful business discussions.

Japan is a key market for Sarawak within the North Asia region, contributing significantly to the growth of visitor arrivals. As of August 2024, Sarawak saw a 21% rise in visitor arrivals from Japan compared to the same period in 2023. With this upward trend, Sarawak Tourism Board’s participation in TEJ 2024 aimed to increase its presence in the Japanese market, raise the destination’s profile, and reconnect with Japanese travel partners and potential travellers.

Sarawak’s focus on sustainable development and green energy resonates with the Japanese market’s priorities, making it a significant area of interest for Sarawak. Both regions actively advocate for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with the Sarawak Tourism Board focusing on SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities andCommunities), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), SDG 13 (Climate Action), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). This mutual focus strengthens the connection between Sarawak and Japan, fostering a favourable environment for collaboration and tourism growth.

Sarawak is a diverse destination that caters to Japanese travellers who primarily visit for holidays and leisure. Japanese visitors are drawn to cultural experiences, nature and wildlife adventures, and gastronomy—key elements highlighted in Sarawak’s five pillars: Culture, Adventure, Nature, Food, and Festival (CANFF).

Sarawak proudly stands as the first in Malaysia to host two UNESCO World Heritage Sites — Mulu National Park and Niah National Park — which serve as northern gateways to the region’s rich natural heritage and biodiversity.

Niah National Park, renowned for its archaeological significance as the site of Southeast Asia’s oldest human remains, enriches Sarawak’s cultural and historical landscape. The Sarawak Delta Geopark, Malaysia’s sixth national geopark, further enhances this heritage by preserving Sarawak’s natural treasures and promoting environmental conservation.

Sarawak’s cultural heritage is equally captivating. The Borneo Cultures Museum — the largest in Malaysia and second-largest in Southeast Asia — offers a comprehensive look at the state’s diverse histories, cultures, and traditions. Complementing this is the Sarawak Cultural Village, an award-winning living museum that provides authentic insight into the architecture, customs, and daily lives of Sarawak’s major ethnic groups, making it an unparalleled destination for cultural exploration.

Furthermore, Kuching, the capital city, has earned both the “World Craft City” status from the World Crafts Council (WCC) and recognition as Malaysia’s first ‘Creative City of Gastronomy’ by UNESCO — achievements shaped by the rich cultural and culinary diversity of Sarawak’s 34 ethnic groups.

During the event, the Sarawak Tourism Board conducted two days of pre-scheduled Business-to-Business (B2B) sessions with Japanese tourism players on 26 and 27 September. These meetings provided an excellent opportunity for the board to establish new partnerships, strengthen existing relationships, and gain valuable market insights

through a market intelligence survey. The last two days, 28 and 29 September, were dedicated to Business-to-Consumer (B2C) sessions, allowing the public to explore Sarawak’s offerings and engage with the destination directly.

The event concluded with the post-engagement session at Dai-ichi Hotel Tokyo. Sarawak’s product updates were shared, future collaborations were discussed, continuous growth was ensured, and a shared commitment to sustainable and responsible tourism was

reflected. Sarawak’s participation in the Tourism Expo Japan 2024 showcased its diverse tourism offerings and reinforced its position as a unique and sustainable destination for Japanese travellers.

For more information on Sarawak’s travel experiences, check out https://sarawaktourism.com

Emirates marks International Coffee Day

SINGAPORE, 2 October 2024: Celebrating International Coffee Day on Monday, 1 October, Emirates noted that its coffee-loving customers consumed more than 170,000 kg of coffee beans annually on board its flights and lounges.

Celebrating the wide array of artisan coffee served in Emirates lounges and onboard flights to 140 destinations worldwide, including Emirates’ signature blend of traditional Arabic coffee.

Inflight Delight: 130,000 kg of coffee served each year.

Emirates serves more than 130,000 kg of coffee onboard every year and even commissions its own signature blend of Arabic Coffee in collaboration with artisan local producer Mattina.

Mattina’s Arabic Coffee blend for Emirates uses the finest quality Arabica beans, complemented by natural cardamom and saffron, in line with the traditional recipes passed down through generations, replicating the ceremonial coffee experience central to Arabian hospitality for centuries. The blend features Arabica beans from Brazil’s Cerrado de Minas region, known for their smooth, mild, and aromatic character. These beans are lightly roasted to create the light brownish colour characteristic of the Arabic Emirati Qahwa. The Emirates Arabic Coffee is blended with cardamom from the highlands of Guatemala, famous for its rich and intense flavours, a spice that gives Qahwa its distinctive, aromatic taste while also featuring subtle hints of the world’s finest saffron, adding to the authenticity of the Qahwa tradition. Emirates signature blend of Arabic coffee is served inflight to First Class customers globally and is also available to order in the First and Business Class Lounges.

Across the Emirates network, many coffee types and producers are offered to customers in flight, including Lavazza, Coffee Planet, the Nairobi Coffee and Tea Company, and various independent suppliers globally. As part of the meal service, Economy and Premium Economy customers are offered coffee once or twice during their flight. Business and First Class customers can order from a Lavazza Italian coffee menu on demand, including decaffeinated coffee, cappuccino, iced Americano, espresso, macchiato and affogato al café. Emirates also works with Coffee Planet to create bespoke drinks for special occasions like Christmas and Valentine’s Day, such as the rose-kissed mocha or orange crush latte.

Lounges for Coffee Connoisseurs: 40,000 kg served by Emirates annually

The 5.1 million customers that relax in the seven luxurious Emirates Lounges in Dubai each year consume an average of 26,000 kg of coffee beans. In the First Class lounge in Concourse B, Dubai International Airport, Emirates has a dedicated coffee counter where customers can choose between a variety of three single blend origin coffees freshly prepared by a barista. Each coffee presents various aromas, acidity, and bitterness, and the Emirates team has been specially trained to suggest the best coffee to meet the customers’ preferences. The selection changes every three months so that regular travellers can sample beans from all around the world. For example, Colombia Huila Buenavista is a juicy and silky-bodied coffee with a sweet cacao nib-like finish and floral notes as well as hints of apricot, grapes, blackberry and grapefruit. Burundi Nyagishiru has a mild fruity aroma and a smooth finish of milk chocolate, brown spice, caramel, and stone fruit, with tart acidity and velvety texture. Brazil Sao Vale Do Sol is a medium-bodied coffee with a mild fruity aroma, citrus acidity, aromas and notes of grapefruit, vanilla, almond, and chocolate with a clean finish. The First and Business Class Lounges also feature Costa Coffee, an Emirates Leisure Retail company, where a wide range of coffees and complementary food are served.

Curated Coffee Training for Emirates Cabin Crew

Emirates Cabin Crew receive specialised coffee training, where they learn about the origins of coffee, different blends and how to make the perfect cup for every customer. In practical training sessions, cabin crew learn how to serve and present each coffee type and are assessed on preparing and delivering Emirates signature Arabic coffee. First-class passengers can enjoy their coffee in a Royal Doulton fine-bone mug or cup, and business-class passengers can enjoy their coffee in a fine-bone china mug. The quality of the water used to make the coffee is also considered and regularly monitored, and Emirates ensures that the water tanks, equipment used for transportation and supply lines provide perfectly potable water through regular disinfection, maintenance, and audits.
For flight information and to make bookings, visit www.emirates.com.

Klook lines up birthday deals

SINGAPORE, 2 October 2024: Klook, a leading travel services platform in Asia, is celebrating its 10th anniversary with a birthday sale offering savings of up to 60% from 1 to 31 October.

Discounts are valid on a wide range of travel services, including tours, activities, accommodations, and transport, in various destinations, including Japan, Thailand, Taiwan, and Europe. 

Lounge in the Sky, Bali.

In addition, Klook is offering weekly flash deals with Buy-1-Get-1 products, seasonal offers featuring top Autumn and Winter experiences in Japan, and Klook-exclusive products. 

● Travellers can win travel experiences by saving them to a wishlist on selected campaign days. Klook will choose and notify the Winners.

● Spin the wheel daily to win promo codes redeemable for discounts of up to USD50 off on attractions and tours.

● Free eSIM for Klook Members so they can stay connected on their travels. Enjoy up to 3GB of data with seamless in-app activation for fuss-free coverage in over 200 destinations, and stay connected while travelling.

As part of Klook’s 10th anniversary, the company is launching its largest number of deals on 3 October. Users can look forward to over 2000 deals with up to 60% discount on travel services, weekly flash deals on buy-1-get-1 products and popular seasonal experiences in Japan.

Six new ‘Money Can’t Buy Experiences’

Sleep Beneath the Stars in Dubai’s Desert: Experience a stay in glass domes at Al Marmoom Oasis. Enjoy camel rides, wildlife spotting, and stargazing with an expert astronomer, complemented by a Michelin-awarded feast.

Forage the Swiss Alps: Embark on a three-day adventure in Saas-Fee, Switzerland. Hunt for mushrooms with a master forager, savour a raclette feast, and dine at the world’s highest revolving restaurant with a 3D2N stay in a picturesque village.

Seoul Searching OPPAS: Join Korea’s Wild Wild Hotties for an exclusive Seoul tour. Begin your adventure with a thrilling coronation ceremony, where you’ll be crowned by the dancers themselves.

Master the Way in Tokyo’s Heart: Step back in time to the world of the samurai. Learn the art of the katana, dress in traditional samurai attire, and dine with a sensei, gaining insights into samurai culture.

Urban Surf & Turf: Get ready for an exclusive, action-packed getaway like no other. This 2D1N VIP experience at Malaysia’s Sunway Lagoon offers thrills, waves, and fun under the sun.

Sunset and Serenades in Bali’s Sky: Soar to new heights at Lounge in the Sky, Bali’s only “flying restaurant,” where dining meets breathtaking views. Savour a meal 50 meters above ground, with stunning views before you ascend into the air for a jaw-dropping experience.

To participate, users can visit Klook and register their interest in the selected ‘Money Can’t Buy Experiences’.

Six Senses shares journey to plastic freedom

SINGAPORE, 2 October 2024: Six Senses has been on a journey to eliminate plastic from its properties since the brand was founded in the mid-1990s. 

By the time plastic became a dirty word in 2016, single-use bottles, straws, and disposable packaging were long gone, and Six Senses was already taking pioneering steps towards eliminating more complex and challenging plastic items.

Six Senses sustainability teams have diligently recorded this Journey to Plastic Freedom, and on Monday, Six Senses announced it will share its operational intelligence with the broader hospitality industry.   

Six Senses CEO Neil Jacobs said: “We are sharing our playbook with other hotel groups because the issue needs collective action if we are to make a real impact on our environment. If that means sharing our trade secrets with the wider industry, then so be it. This playbook only tells half the story. The real legacy will be how our journey is embedded within further afield and, who knows, potentially becomes part of life for all hotel operations.”

The Six Senses Journey to Plastic Freedom Playbook has 82 tried and tested solutions to plastic items in the four main areas of a hotel’s operations — housekeeping, back of house, food and beverage and spa. Items being eliminated range from bags and toothpaste tubes to coffee capsules and brooms. The playbook also shares ten lessons about how being environmentally and socially responsible can be successfully married to uncompromising hospitality, efficient operations, profitability, an outstanding guest experience and high levels of satisfaction and engagement among colleagues.

As part of IHG’s luxury and lifestyle portfolio, Six Senses has shared the Journey to Plastic Freedom Playbook with 6,400 IHG hotels worldwide. The next step for Six Senses is to share it with the wider industry. There will be a webinar on Wednesday, 6 November, for anyone working in the hospitality industry who wants to learn more. From that date, the playbook will be available to download online.

Join the mission

Six Senses focuses on eliminating plastic rather than just recycling. Pollution from plastic occurs during production, extraction, use and disposal. Much of the environmental damage is already done by the time it is recycled (if it gets recycled). 

Six Senses knew from the outset that its suppliers would be critical stakeholders. That is why all purchasing teams and suppliers were on board with the brand’s vision to eliminate plastic. Six Senses learned it was not alone in its concern, and suppliers were open to implementing alternatives and collaborating to develop workable solutions.
Click here to register for the Six Senses Plastic Freedom Webinar on Wednesday,  6 November. Attendees will receive a PDF copy of the playbook.

Delta schedules Salt Lake to Seoul flights

SINGAPORE, 2 October 2024: Delta is boosting its global footprint by launching its first-ever nonstop service from Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) to Seoul-Incheon International Airport (ICN) on 12 June 12, 2025.

The first-ever nonstop service from Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) to Seoul-Incheon International Airport (ICN) will provide travellers throughout the Mountain West and Southwest US regions with connections to key destinations across Asia.

The daily, year-round service to Seoul will be operated on Delta’s Airbus A350-900, which offers the latest in premium travel with Delta One Suites, Delta Premium Select, Delta Comfort+, and Main Cabin experiences. 

“The launch of Salt Lake City to Seoul service offers customers convenient access to Delta’s growing global network and ensures that virtually all US demand is connected to Seoul via nonstop or one-stop service,” said  Delta’s Senior Vice President of Network Planning Joe Esposito. “As Salt Lake City continues to grow as a vital Delta hub, our strong joint venture with Korean Air allows us to offer unmatched connectivity between the US and Asia.” 

As Delta’s fifth direct US route to Seoul, the new SLC-ICN flight joins Atlanta, Detroit, Minneapolis-St Paul, and Seattle in connecting US travellers to Asia. With this addition, Delta and partner Korean Air offer access to Seoul from 14 US gateways, providing the most extensive reach across Asia through the ICN hub compared to any other trans-Pacific joint venture. 

ATIA backs Qatar stake in Virgin Airways

SINGAPORE, 2 October 2024: The Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA) says Qatar Airways’ investment in Virgin Australia if approved, should mean more competition and connectivity for Australian passengers.

The proposed acquisition of a 25% minority stake from Bain Capital, announced Monday, is subject to approval by the Foreign Investment Review Board (FIRB) and the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC).

If approved, it’s expected to enable the launch of flights from Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney to Doha, meaning more connectivity on itineraries to Europe and other key destinations from 2025.

“If approved, Virgin Australia will be able to launch new services from Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney to Doha, potentially creating more than 100 new connecting itineraries to Europe, the Middle East and Africa. This will ultimately mean more travel options and more competition in the air, which is positive news for travellers,” ATIA acting CEO Ingrid Fraser. “We expect the planes to take to the sky from mid-2025. While the Government must carry out the necessary checks, we urge them to do so expediently to ensure that increased competition and connectivity benefits are realised as soon as possible.

She noted: “Investments like this are a strong sign of confidence in the recovery and future growth of the Australian travel sector. It’s positive that this will provide Virgin Australia with a runway towards long-term sustainable ownership and an anticipated return to public listing.”

Qantas launches A380 flights to Africa

SYDNEY, Australia, 2 October 2024: On Monday, Qantas inaugurated its Airbus A380 flights to Johannesburg, Africa, flying the route six times weekly.

The new A380 service will double seat capacity with an extra 130,000 seats between Australia and Africa annually.

Photo credit: Qantas. A380 flies to South Africa.

The Qantas A380 has capacity for 485 passengers across four cabins, with the introduction of the Superjumbo seeing a return of First Class on the route for the first time since 2018. Qantas First features 14 individual suites arranged in an exclusive 1-1-1 configuration and convert into a 212-centimetre bed. The upgauge will also more than double the number of Premium Economy seats available between the cities.

The mega aircraft also features an upper deck lounge for passengers in First and Business, with booth-style seating for 10 people, a self-service bar and an option to order signature drinks and snacks.

Qantas first touched down in South Africa in 1948 with a Lancastrian survey flight from Sydney via Perth, the Cocos (Keeling) Islands and Mauritius to Johannesburg. The first passenger services commenced along the same route in September 1952 using a Lockheed Constellation L-749A. The journey took 66 hours and became affectionately known as the Wallaby Route – a nod to the Kangaroo Route from Australia to London.

Today, the Flying Kangaroo’s flights are nonstop, with the upgauge heralding the first A380 flight by any airline across the southern Indian Ocean.

The national carrier also intends to relaunch direct flights from Perth to Johannesburg from mid-2025, subject to meeting border agency requirements.

More African destinations

The significant increase in capacity comes as Qantas announces a new codeshare partnership with Johannesburg-based carrier Airlink, substantially expanding its network into South Africa.

Qantas will add the QF code on Airlink’s domestic network, enabling seamless connectivity between Qantas flights to Johannesburg and nine South African destinations, including Cape Town, Durban and Hoedspruit. The carrier hopes to add additional Airlink destinations in nearby southern African countries over the coming months, pending regulatory approval.

By codesharing with Airlink, Qantas Frequent Flyers can earn Qantas Points and Status Credits, as well as pay for flights using Points Plus Pay.

Fares on the new A380 flights are available now at qantas.com and via travel agents. Codeshare connections on Airlink are available today for travel starting in late October 2024. All Qantas international fares include a checked baggage allowance, food and beverages, and inflight entertainment as standard with every booking.

Flight times 

Sydney to Johannesburg: 14 hours and 40 minutes. Johannesburg to Sydney: 11 hours and 55 minutes.
Qantas has eight active A380s of a fleet of 10, with the remaining two returning to service over the next 18 months.
In addition to Johannesburg, Qantas flies its A380s to Los Angeles, Singapore and London.

TAT: Annual reshuffle of deputies

BANGKOK, 2 October 2024: The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) confirms the appointment of four new deputy governors, effective 1 October, in its annual management reshuffle.

TAT names four new deputies to the management team. From left: Chiravadee Khunsub, Banyat Kalasuwan, Kittipong Prapattong and Pattaraanong Na Chiangmai.

New deputies

Banyat Kalasuwan, Executive Director of the General Administration Department, has been promoted to Deputy Governor for Administration.

Pattaraanong Na Chiangmai, Executive Director of the Northern Region, has been promoted to Deputy Governor for International Marketing – Asia and the South Pacific.

Chiravadee Khunsub, Executive Director of the Europe Region, has been promoted to Deputy Governor for Tourism Products and Business.

Kittipong Prapattong, Executive Director of the Advertising and Public Relations Department, has been promoted to Deputy Governor for Digitalisation, Research and Development.

Two deputies change posts

In addition to welcoming four new deputy governors, the reshuffle saw an assignment shift for two of the existing deputy governors.

Apichai Chatchalermkit, Deputy Governor for Tourism Products and Business, has been reappointed as Deputy Governor for the Domestic Market.

Teerasil Tapen, Deputy Governor for Digitalisation, Research and Development, has been reappointed as Deputy Governor for Policy and Planning.

A full team of eight deputies

Under the leadership of the TAT Governor, Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT’s organisational structure comprises eight deputy governors.

The two other deputy governors are Nithee Seeprae, Deputy Governor for Marketing Communications (since October 2023), and Siripakorn Cheawsamoot, Deputy Governor for International Marketing – Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and the Americas (since October 2022).

Centara wins the triple at TTG awards

BANGKOK, 1 October 2024: Centara Hotels & Resorts, Thailand’s leading hotel operator, won three awards at the 33rd Annual TTG Travel Awards 2024, held in Bangkok last week.

Centara Hotels & Resorts was honoured as the Best Local Hotel Brand – Thailand. Centara Reserve Samui received the title of Best Lifestyle Hotel – Koh Samui. Centara Grand at CentralWorld was recognised as the Best Meetings & Conventions Hotel – Thailand.

(from left to right:)
1. Michael Henssler, Chief Operating Officer of Centara Hotels & Resorts
2. Supatra Chirathivat, Senior Executive Vice President – Corporate Affairs & Social Responsibilities of Centara Hotels & Resorts
3. Thirayuth Chirathivat, Chief Executive Officer of Centara Hotels & Resorts
4. Thirakiati Chirathivat, Executive Vice President – Global Procurement of Centara Hotels & Resorts
5. Robert Maurer Loeffler, Vice President Operations & General Manager of Centara Grand at CentralWorld

Centara Hotels & Resorts Chief Executive Officer Thirayuth Chirathivat commented: “Receiving three awards in a single year is a first for Centara and a testament to our team’s dedication across multiple brands and properties. These accolades reflect the trust our guests place in the Centara brand and inspire us to continue elevating the standard of Thai hospitality that makes Centara The Place to Be.”

For more information about Centara Hotels & Resorts and its award-winning properties, visit www.centarahotelsresorts.com.

Pandaw: Solo travellers explore the Ganges

SINGAPORE, 1 October 2024: Pandaw, a leading river cruise specialist in Asia, is promoting a ‘No Single Supplement’ offer by adding more dates for solo travellers to book a sailing without the need to pay extra. 

“Our now famous ‘Pandaw Spirit’ aboard all vessels means that single travellers often leave with lifelong friends and future Pandaw travel companions as well as a profound appreciation for our wonderful destinations,” the Pandaw sales team explains. “With new dates added due to high demand, now is the perfect time to book an Asian river adventure with Pandaw while the offer lasts.”

Solo travellers can enjoy Pandaw’s signature river cruise, the ‘All Ganges: Varanasi to Kolkata’, exploring India’s iconic river and holy cities. Sailing between Kolkata in West Bengal and the sacred city of Varanasi, this essential Indian experience is now available for a limited time with no single supplement for new dates added in February and March 2025.

In 2019, Pandaw inaugurated an ‘all Ganges’ voyage of one thousand miles from Kolkata to Varanasi. Due to navigation challenges and the obstruction of numerous pontoon bridges, it has been decided to sail as far as Patna and then overland to Varanasi.

The sailing does cover the best of the Ganges, from the colonial splendours of Kolkata through the enchanting rural arcadia of West Bengal along the Hoogly and the great expanse of the Ganga itself with its pristine bird and wildlife and cultural treasures dotted along the banks. Though in the days of the British Raj, paddle steamers plied this route regularly, with the advent of the railways in India, river navigation was abandoned, and the rivers were allowed to silt up. Thanks to a multi-million dollar investment from the Indian Government, channels have been dredged and buoyed, and hi-tech GPS-based aids installed, enabling seasonal navigation. No vessel could be more appropriate for a voyage on ‘All the Ganges’ than Pandaw’s shallow draft K-class ships.

Varanasi, said to be the oldest inhabited city on the planet, is the most sacred city of Hinduism and a place of overwhelming beauty. At the same time, it is poignantly moving with its cremation ghats. Varanasi is surely the goal of any ‘passage to India’ and at the other end of the holy river stands Kolkata, in all its Raj-like magnificence. Between lies several of the most important Buddhist sites in the country, fascinating cities great and small, and expanses of the river teeming with bird life, not to mention the Gangeatic dolphin.

From September 2024, Pandaw’s India expeditions are all-inclusive, with complimentary local beers, spirits, mixers, and soft drinks for all guests. House wines are also included during lunch and dinner, subject to availability.

However, the Upper Ganges segment of this itinerary passes through the state of Bihar, where it is illegal to serve alcoholic drinks. 

To book visit pandaw.com or contact the Pandaw sales team at [email protected].