KATHMANDU, 20 April 2026: The PATA Nepal Chapter and the Nepal Tourism Board will jointly host the 6th edition of the Himalayan Travel Mart (HTM 2026), from 1 to 4 June 2026, reaffirming their continued collaboration in promoting Nepal as a leading global tourism destination.
PATA Nepal Chapter and Nepal Tourism Board signed an agreement to jointly organise the 6th Himalayan Travel Mart (HTM 2026) in Kathmandu, Nepal, on 16 April. Deepak Raj Joshi signed on behalf of the Nepal Tourism Board, and Narendra Bhatta, General Secretary and HTM Convener, on behalf of the PATA Nepal Chapter.
Photo credit: PATA Nepal Chapter. Nepal Tourism Board CEO Deepak Raj Joshi (centre right) signed on behalf of the NTB and Narendra Bhatta (centre left), General Secretary and HTM Convener, on behalf of the PATA Nepal Chapter.
Scheduled to take place at The Plaza, Lalitpur, Kathmandu Valley, HTM 2026 will bring together global buyers, sellers, industry experts, media, influencers, and tourism stakeholders.
HTM 2026 will feature a comprehensive programme, including pre-event familiarisation tours across key destinations such as Kathmandu Valley, Pokhara, Lumbini, and Sindhupalchowk.
The Himalayan Travel Mart, which positions Nepal as the “Gateway to the Himalayas” and a destination for a “Lifetime Experience,” has established itself as a leading platform for promoting the country’s diverse tourism offerings and fostering international collaboration.
SINGAPORE, 20 April 2026: The US remained the largest Travel & Tourism market in the world in 2025, but is losing market share according to the World Travel & Tourism Council’s (WTTC) latest Economic Impact Research, sponsored by its Lead Research Partner, Chase Travel.
While 2025 saw the best year ever for the Travel & Tourism sector, with GDP growth of 4.1%, the story was very different for North America, which was the slowest-growing region globally, rising just 1%, and by only 0.9% in the US.
Photo credit: WTTC.
80 million more people travelled internationally in 2025 than in the previous year, yet they chose different destinations. US visitor numbers declined by 5.5% compared with 2024, and international visitor spending fell by 4.6% to USD176 billion.
While the US continues to lead in scale, contributing USD2.63 trillion to global GDP, WTTC highlights that the country is now at a crossroads in its tourism development.
With the right actions, it has a significant opportunity to restore international visitor spending, sustain job creation, and strengthen its global leadership — particularly as competition intensifies from fast-rising markets in the Asia Pacific, such as China.
In 2025, the Travel & Tourism sector in the US supported 20.4 million jobs, up 1.2% year-on-year, and added approximately 242,000 new jobs, a positive signal for both the sector and the wider economy. Domestic visitor spending remained strong at USD1.54 trillion, up 0.3% year-on-year and 14.3% above pre-pandemic levels.
Sustaining this momentum will depend on increasing investment and promoting the US as a rebuilding force to revive international demand, changing perceptions, and ensuring the US remains competitive as a global destination.
With the country set to co-host major football events in 2026, WTTC highlights a significant and immediate opportunity. The FIFA World Cup, jointly hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the US, should attract around 1.24 million international visitors, offering a powerful platform to showcase the American experience and convert visitors into promoters of travel to the US.
China, the world’s second-largest market, is rapidly gaining ground, with Travel & Tourism contributing USD1.75 trillion to GDP in 2025, up 9.9% year-on-year and supporting 84.6 million jobs (+2.0%). Both international visitor spending (up 10.5% to USD 135 billion) and domestic spending (up 10.7% to USD 890 billion) recorded strong gains.
This momentum reflects the broader strength of the Asia-Pacific region, now the fastest-growing Travel & Tourism region globally. The region’s GDP grew 8.2% in 2025 to reach USD3.29 trillion, with several markets outperforming the global average, led by Malaysia (11.2%) and the Philippines (10.8%), followed by China (9.9%), India (7.3%), and Indonesia (7.2%).
WTTC, President & CEO Gloria Guevara said: “The US remains the largest Travel & Tourism market in the world and has an amazing foundation. To avoid losing its leadership position, the US. must invest in promoting its attractiveness, both in international markets and during the summer of football; change perception and position the US as a welcoming destination; and grow international visitor spend, encouraging stopovers and new experiences.”
Chase Travel CEO Jason Wynn said: “WTTC’s latest research shows the US Travel & Tourism sector continues to demonstrate remarkable resilience, supporting millions of jobs and driving trillions of dollars in economic growth, even amid global headwinds. With the US set to host a series of global events through 2028, we have an extraordinary opportunity to welcome new visitors and bring travellers from around the world closer together, fostering meaningful connections across countries and communities.”
”At Chase Travel, we are committed to being the go-to partner and provider for both domestic and international travel, leveraging our world-class marketplace to empower travellers, advisors, and partners to elevate every trip and drive lasting growth for the industry.”
SINGAPORE, 20 April 2026: Korean Air officially completed a comprehensive 42-month infrastructure overhaul of its lounges at Incheon International Airport Terminal 2 with the unveiling of its renovated flagship First and Prestige Class West Lounges on 17 and 18 April, respectively.
Following a KRW110 billion investment, the airline has modernised its entire lounge network at Incheon, expanding it and more than doubling the airline’s total lounge capacity at the terminal, preparing for increased passenger volumes ahead of its planned integration with Asiana Airlines.
Photo credit: Korean Air. David Pacey, Executive Vice President & Chief of In-flight Service and Lounges, at Korean Air, pre-opening event at the Incheon Prestige West Lounge on 15 April.
Designed around the concept of a “home away from home,” the new facilities prioritise passenger experience through enhanced dining and amenities.
The First Class Lounge, spanning 921 sqm — 2.3 times larger than the previous facility — has been reimagined to focus on ultimate privacy. The space is divided into an open hall and 11 private suites, allowing passengers to relax in a secluded environment before boarding.
The interior draws inspiration from traditional Korean architecture, utilising wood pillars, beams, and ramie (mosi) textures. Upon entry, passengers are guided to independent suites for a private pre-flight experience.
The Prestige Class West Lounge has gained capacity spanning 2,615 sqm with over 420 seats, making it the largest single lounge facility at Incheon International Airport.
SINGAPORE, 20 April 2026: Princess Cruises releases its most expansive Asia deployment ever, bringing together its 2027 and 2028 Southeast Asia and 2028 Japan programmes in a single, comprehensive presentation.
The season will feature 96 departures across 61 itineraries visiting 55 destinations in nine countries, with two ships homeporting in Japan.
Photo credit: Princess Cruises. Both Diamond Princess and Sapphire Princess will homeport in Tokyo for the full season.
What’s New in 2027 and 2028
Expanded late-night stays aligned with major summer festivals across Japan.
New festival inclusion: Osaka Bon Odori, with dedicated visits by both ships.
Largest-ever Japan season with two ships homeporting in Tokyo.
The 2028 Japan season marks a major milestone for the cruise line, featuring 41 destinations. For the first time, both Diamond Princess and Sapphire Princess will homeport in Tokyo for the full season.
Japan season highlights
85 departures across 52 itineraries, ranging from seven to 29 days.
Two sister ships, the 2,706-guest Diamond Princess and 2,678-guest Sapphire Princess.
Sailings visiting all four main islands of Japan, following peak cherry blossom blooms from south to north.
Six late-night stays in Aomori, Hakodate, Hiroshima, Kochi, Osaka (for Kyoto) and Tokushima.
Access to 19 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Mount Fuji (from Shimizu), Himeji-jo Castle (from Osaka), Hiroshima Peace Memorial and Sado Island Gold Mines (from Niigata), Shirakawago Historic Village (from Toyama).
Signature 29-day Grand Circle Japan voyages, including fall foliage sailings visiting up to 24 ports.
Featured destinations
Cities including Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto (via Osaka), Hiroshima and Sapporo.
Landmarks such as Himeji-jo Castle, Kochi Castle, Sannai-Maruyama ruins and Mt Fuji (from Shimizu).
Scenic regions including Aomori, the Oga Peninsula and Lake Towada
Seasonal sailings aligned with cherry blossom and fall foliage periods, mountain landscapes and coastal vistas.
Southeast Asia programme
Complementing the Japan season, Princess Cruises’ Southeast Asia programme offers a collection of longer, destination-rich itineraries operated by Diamond Princess, connecting Japan, Korea and Southeast Asia.
Voyages are designed as longer-duration sailings up to 28 days, connecting multiple regions.
Round-trip Singapore sailings and Japan–Singapore repositioning cruises.
Visits 29 destinations across nine countries.
Overnight stay in Laem Chabang (for Bangkok) and late-night calls in Hong Kong and Osaka.
Access to UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Singapore Botanic Gardens and Iriomote Island (from Ishigaki)
SINGAPORE, 20 April 2026: Klook, a pan-regional experiences platform in the Asia Pacific, expands its offerings to include sports and live events, focusing on four of the world’s top sporting icons.
The lineup of sporting events bookable through Klook comprises: the World Cup 2026, Roland-Garros 2026, Wimbledon 2026, and Formula 1.
The expansion is timed to coincide with a measurable shift in traveller behaviour, based on findings from Klook’s Travel Pulse 2026 study, which concluded that mega-events have become catalysts for travel.
Data shows that one in five global travellers now plan their entire vacation around a specific event, with 25% specifically citing sporting matches as their main travel motivator.
The study shows that 91% of fans use mega-events as a springboard for a longer trip. Rather than a “fly-in, fly-out” approach, 41% of travellers surveyed said they extend their stay by at least three days.
Nearly half of the fans now secure event tickets one to six months in advance, creating a longer window to facilitate the rest of their travel needs, from local transport to tours.
World Cup 2026
The FIFA World Cup 2026 spans 16 host cities across the US, Canada, and Mexico from 11 June to 19 July 2026
Roland-Garros 2026
As Official Hospitality Reseller for Roland-Garros 2026, Klook offers VIP packages that include priority courtside seating, exclusive access to hospitality areas, personalised welcome experiences, and Parisian dining. The event held at Stade Roland-Garros in Paris from 24 May to 7 June 2026, is one of four tennis Grand Slams, drawing fans from across APAC who pair tournament attendance with broader France and Europe itineraries.
Wimbledon 2026
Wimbledon 2026 debentures are now available on Klook. Held at the All England Club in London from 29 June to 12 July 2026, Wimbledon is the oldest and most prestigious tennis Grand Slam in the world. Klook offers debenture seats on Centre Court and Court No 1, giving fans guaranteed access and premium sightlines to the sport’s defining matches.
Formula 1
Formula 1 hospitality and tickets are available across all 24 races on the 2026 global calendar. Klook offers a wide range of options for each race, from grandstand and stand locations to hospitality inclusions, including single-day passes covering Friday qualifying, ensuring accessible entry points at every circuit on the calendar.
Tickets for the World Cup 2026, Roland-Garros 2026, Wimbledon 2026 and Formula 1 are now available on Klook’s platform.
The sports tourism market, valued at USD813.38 billion in 2026, is projected to reach USD1,984.17 billion by 2034, exhibiting a CAGR of 11.79% over the forecast period. Klook has expanded its offerings to include major sports and live events, adding to its wealth of experiences and connecting fans to premium matchday access for four of the world’s most popular sports.
SINGAPORE, 20 April 2026: Vietjet has announced five new routes between Vietnam and China, alongside two major strategic agreements with SPDB Financial Leasing for the finance lease of 10 COMAC C909 aircraft and with AVIC Cabin Systems to develop aircraft interiors and aviation supporting industries.
The announcements were made during Vietnam’s General Secretary and President To Lam’s state visit to China, at the invitation of Chinese General Secretary and President Xi Jinping.
Photo credit: Vietjet. Vietjet announces five new routes to China.
Expanding connectivity between Vietnam and China
At the Investment Cooperation Conference in Beijing, Vietjet unveiled five new routes: Hanoi–Hangzhou, Hanoi–Enshi, Hanoi–Huangshan, Ho Chi Minh City–Guilin, and Ho Chi Minh City–Huangshan.
The Hanoi–Enshi and Ho Chi Minh City–Guilin routes have been operating since early April. These additions further expand Vietjet’s growing international network, strengthening links among key economic, cultural, and tourism hubs and supporting the Vietnam–China Tourism Cooperation Year.
Over more than a decade, Vietjet has operated 131 routes between Vietnam and China, completing nearly 70,000 flights and carrying approximately 14.5 million passengers, connecting 55 Chinese cities with Vietnam’s major destinations.
Strengthening aviation finance and fleet
As part of its growth strategy, Vietjet has also signed an agreement with SPDB Financial Leasing (SPDBFL), a subsidiary of Shanghai Pudong Development Bank, to finance aircraft through operating leases on a larger scale, covering up to 10 COMAC C919 aircraft.
The agreement lays the groundwork for the introduction of COMAC aircraft on routes between Vietnam and China, supporting the airline’s continued network expansion. It will also enable the airline to expand and modernise its fleet through diversified financing structures, optimise operational efficiency, and strengthen access to international capital markets. This fleet growth is expected to support increased capacity across Vietjet’s broader international network, helping the airline sustain competitive fares and meet growing travel demand across the region.
AVIC Cabin Systems develop aircraft interiors
Complementing its network and fleet expansion, Vietjet has also entered into a comprehensive cooperation agreement with AVIC Cabin Systems to develop aircraft interiors and strengthen aviation supporting industries. Through collaboration with Jiatai, a member of AVIC Cabin Systems, the partnership will also promote localisation of the supply chain and facilitate technology transfer.
A broader range of cooperation initiatives was also announced across aviation finance, engineering, logistics, and supply chains, reflecting a growing trend of deeper, more integrated partnerships between airlines, financial institutions, and industrial players. These collaborations are helping unlock new investment opportunities, strengthen regional value chains, and support long-term, sustainable growth across the Asia-Pacific aviation ecosystem.
SINGAPORE, 17 April 2026: Sarawak’s travel pavilion at The Meetings Show Asia Pacific (TMS APAC) showcased its meeting and events for event planners in the Asia Pacific market for the third consecutive year.
The show was held at Marina Bay Sands in Singapore from 14 to 15 April, with the Sarawak Pavilion bringing its “Driving Impact Together” brand promise to life by placing local enterprise at the centre, serving as a strategic showcase.
The Hon Datuk Snowdan Lawan opened the BESarawak pavilion at TMS APAC 2026 Marina Bay Sands, Singapore. The show was held on 14 to 15 April.
Sarawak-based brands engaged international audiences, forged meaningful partnerships, and expanded their presence in new markets at the prestigious trade show.
The decision to participate in TMS APAC was supported by a positive regional market backdrop, with strong growth across key Asia-Pacific markets, including Singapore, which recorded a 76.22% increase in visitor arrivals in February 2026.
This momentum is further reinforced by Sarawak’s efforts to strengthen regional accessibility, including the establishment of AirBorneo, positioned as a strategic enabler to enhance connectivity, unlock new market access, and elevate Sarawak’s competitiveness within the Asia Pacific business events landscape.
“A clear regional strategy drives our return,” said The Honourable Datuk Snowdan Lawan, Deputy Minister for Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak, who is leading the Sarawak delegation. “Asia Pacific is a priority growth market for us. Our participation at TMS APAC reflects our focus on engaging the right markets and strengthening partnerships that will support Sarawak’s long-term growth in business events.”
“We are witnessing a growing alignment between global demand and what Sarawak offers, from sector expertise to collaborative ecosystems,” said Datu Hii Chang Kee, Deputy State Secretary and Chairman of Business Events Sarawak (BESarawak). “Our presence at the show is about capturing that demand and translating it into sustained value for our industries and communities.”
“Sarawak is increasingly being viewed as a strategic partner of choice,” said Jason Tan Chin Foo, Acting Chief Executive Officer of BESarawak. “Our focus on legacy-driven business events, and our deliberate efforts to drive impact with stakeholders and communities, are driving our ambition forward as the legacy capital of business events in Malaysia and Borneo.”
As Sarawak continues to deepen its footprint in the Asia Pacific, its presence at TMS APAC reflects a clear ambition to move beyond visibility and towards value. At the heart of this approach is a united ecosystem that showcases the full strength of the destination.
The Sarawak Pavilion presented a cross-section of industry players from Kuching, Sibu and Miri — Borneo Convention Centre Kuching, Cat City Holidays, Grand Margherita Hotel, Kuching Events Rental, Miri Marriott Resort & Spa, Mulu Marriott Resort & Spa, Pullman Kuching Hotel, Pullman Miri Waterfront Hotel, RH Hotel, Sheraton Kuching Hotel, Team Magnifico, Techno Expo, and voco Kuching by IHG.
The pavilion also expressed Sarawak’s identity through an experiential gastronomic journey. The Bibber’s Tale led as the official beverage partner, serving Sarawak’s iconic three-layer tea alongside handcrafted drinks made from native ingredients. At the same time, KANTIN, with a presence in both Kuching and Singapore, returned with the beloved Sarawak Laksa.
Together, this participation demonstrated how collaboration among different stakeholders and community players turns every engagement into an opportunity for lasting impact, aligned with Sarawak’s Post-COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030.
Now officially open, the vibrant new lifestyle property is ready to welcome guests from around the world to the heart of Osaka’s energetic Namba district.
Designed to uplift everyday travel through elevated essentials and lifestyle-led comfort, the hotel offers flexibility, convenience and exceptional value in one of the city’s most dynamic neighbourhoods. Perfectly positioned just steps from Nankai Shin-Imamiya and Namba Stations, Centara Life Namba Hotel Osaka places travellers at the heart of one of the city’s most dynamic neighbourhoods. Guests can easily explore the bright lights of Dotonbori, the culinary delights of inner‑Namba’s hidden alleys, the fresh flavours of Kizu Wholesale Market, and the many shopping malls of Namba and Shinsaibashi, with convenient access to major attractions including the historic icon Osaka Castle.
The hotel’s 300 stylish, non-smoking rooms offer flexibility for solo travellers, couples and families alike. Contemporary interiors with Osaka-inspired accents create a vibrant yet comfortable urban base, complemented by high-speed Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, and a dedicated work desk for seamless business or leisure stays. Family rooms with bunk beds provide a welcoming option for those travelling with children, while wheelchair-accessible rooms ensure inclusive comfort for all guests.
At the heart of the hotel’s dining experience is DINING, where a hearty breakfast buffet features international favourites alongside locally inspired Osaka flavours, setting guests up perfectly for a day of exploration. Above the city, SORA, the hotel’s rooftop lounge, offers sweeping skyline views, including iconic landmarks such as Tsutenkaku and Abeno Harukas. Throughout the property, welcoming common spaces provide the flexibility to work, unwind or connect, adapting effortlessly to each guest’s needs.
“We are proud to officially open Centara Life Namba Hotel Osaka and welcome guests from around the world to experience this vibrant new lifestyle destination. From contemporary, thoughtfully designed rooms and adaptable social spaces to panoramic rooftop views and a breakfast experience celebrating local and international flavours, every detail has been crafted with today’s smart and diverse travellers in mind. Our team is ready and excited to deliver seamless stays defined by warm Thai-inspired hospitality, flexibility, convenience, and exceptional value in the heart of Osaka,” said Centara Grand Hotel Osaka and Centara Life Namba Hotel Osaka Cluster General Manager Andy Noh.
To celebrate its debut, the hotel invites CentaraThe1 members to enjoy the exclusive Centara Life Namba Hotel Osaka Opening Offer. Available for bookings from now until 31 May 2026 for stays between now and 31 August 2026, members enjoy a 25% discount on eligible rates and triple CentaraThe1 points. Reservations can be made directly via centarahotelsresorts.com or The Centara app.
SINGAPORE, 17 April 2026: Drukair (Royal Bhutan Airlines) has increased its scheduled flights between Singapore and Paro from two to three weekly services.
Bhutan’s national carrier will fly three times weekly from Singapore to Paro on Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday, starting 16 May 2026, expanding capacity from the previous schedule of two departures on Thursday and Sunday.
Photo credit: Drukair.
Druk Asia, based in Singapore, is one of Asia’s pioneering Bhutan travel specialists. Since its inception in 2009 as Drukair’s local representative, the company has evolved into a trusted leader in curating journeys to Bhutan with a strong focus on social impact and wellness-centred travel.
In October 2024, Druk Asia reinforced its commitment to protecting Bhutan’s cultural heritage and to a broader social Impact with its appointment by the Ministry of Home Affairs of the Royal Government of Bhutan as the official marketing representative for the Museums of Bhutan Building Fund.
Flight schedule
Under the enhanced schedule, Drukair will operate interim* flights between Singapore Changi Airport (SIN) and Paro International Airport (PBH) on the following days in April:
Singapore serves as the vital link for Bhutan’s fastest-growing visitor markets. By adding a third weekly service, Drukair is simplifying the journey for long-haul visitors, particularly from the South Pacific and North America.
In 2025, Singapore Changi Airport recorded an all-time high of 69.98 million passenger movements, with Australia ranking among its top four markets.
Changi gateway
China, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Australia were Changi’s top four passenger markets in 2025, with North America registering some of the highest regional growth at 15.8%.
Australian connection
Australia is now home to Bhutan’s largest community abroad, approximately 37,500 residents. Daily, over 30 flights arrive in Singapore from Australia, operated by multiple carriers, including Scoot, Singapore Airlines, and Qantas. The enhanced Drukair schedule ensures seamless connectivity for both the Bhutanese diaspora visiting home and Australian travellers eager to check Bhutan off their bucket list.
North American growth
In 2025, visitors to Bhutan from the US rose by 20% while arrivals from Canada increased by 22%. For these travellers, Singapore offers the most efficient one-stop gateway via daily non-stop flights from New York (JFK and Newark), San Francisco, Los Angeles, and five flights a week from Vancouver with Air Canada.
This expansion reflects a growing demand for Bhutan’s “High Value, Low Volume” tourism model. By increasing frequency rather than just capacity, Drukair ensures that the journey remains exclusive and meaningful while improving access via Changi Airport, one of the world’s best-connected aviation hubs.
SEOUL, 17 April 2026: Korean Air has once again been recognised for excellence in in-flight dining, earning the title of “Best Airline Onboard Menu” for its First Class cabin for the third consecutive year at Global Traveller’s 14th annual Leisure Lifestyle Awards.
Based on a survey of Global Traveller’s luxury readers, the award underscores the airline’s ongoing commitment to elevating the in-flight dining experience.
Photo credit: Korean Air
Korean Air’s premium catering blends traditional Korean flavours and modern culinary refinement. Building on a comprehensive overhaul of its in-flight dining programme last year — the first major refresh in over a decade — the airline introduced menus developed in collaboration with Chef Seakyeong Kim, owner of Cesta in Seoul. Featuring seasonal ingredients and innovative techniques, these new dishes bring a true gourmet experience to the skies.
First class passengers enjoy a menu featuring an expanded selection of amuse-bouches and appetisers, alongside new main courses and desserts, such as papillote and petit fours. These additions complement signature Korean dishes, such as bibimbap, and an exclusive sommelier-curated wine programme.
“Being recognised for the third consecutive year at the Leisure Lifestyle Awards is a testament to Korean Air’s unwavering commitment to service innovation,” said Korean Air Executive Vice President and Chief of In-flight Service and Lounges David Pacey.
This latest accolade adds to Korean Air’s growing list of global honours. The airline was named Best Cabin Service at the APEX Best Awards 2026, earned the APEX Five Star Global Airline rating for the ninth consecutive year in 2025 and was named Airline of the Year 2025 by Airlineratings.com. Korean Air also holds a SKYTRAX 5-star Airline rating for the fifth consecutive year.
