HO CHI MINH CITY, Vietnam, 9 August: Vietnam Airlines took delivery of its fifth Boeing 787-10 aircraft, the 30th widebody aircraft to join the carrier’s fleet, and is preparing to fly an A321 on a direct Hanoi-Phnom Penh route, late October.
Vietnam Airlines operates nearly 100 aircraft, including five Boeing 787-10s, 11 Boeing 787-9s, and 14 Airbus A350s in its widebody category.
The airline mainly deploys widebody aircraft on flights to Northeast Asia, Europe, Australia, and the US, as well as between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
The latest 787-10 Dreamliner has a two-class configuration with 24 business class seats and 343 in economy class.
Vietnam Airlines Executive Vice President Dang Anh Tuan commented: “Vietnam Airlines is committed to upgrading and expanding its fleet. We aim to provide the highest levels of passenger comfort and fulfil our mission of connecting Vietnam with the world, significantly supporting economic and social development.”
A321 flights to Phnom Penh
Meanwhile, the airline confirmed it will start direct flights between Hanoi and Phnom Penh on 27 October using an A321 aircraft. It will offer four weekly flights departing Hanoi on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday through to 31 March 2025.
According to the airline’s advance timetable information, reservations for the new service opened last week, but a booking search failed to find travel dates for November on the airline’s website. However, a Skyscanner search delivered a booking option on Vietnam Airlines via OTAs with a roundtrip fare of SGD238 for November travel dates. The northern hemisphere winter timetable is from 27 October 2024 to 31 March 2025
The route is currently served exclusively by Cambodia Angkor Air, which flies daily using an A320. Skyscanner quotes a roundtrip fare of SGD493.
Flight schedule
Flight VN923 departs Hanoi (HAN) at 1710 and arrives in Phnom Penh (PNH) at 1905. Flight VN922 departs Phnom Penh at 2000 and arrives in Hanoi at 2155.
HONG KONG, 8 August 2024: The Cathay Group has committed more than HKD100 billion in investments over the next seven years as part of its bold strategy to elevate its customer experience and strengthen Hong Kong’s international aviation hub status riding on the Three-Runway System.
This encompasses major investments in its fleet, cabin products, lounges, and digital and sustainability leadership as it sets its sights on growing for its customers, its people and its home, Hong Kong.
Cathay Group Chair Patrick Healy said: “With the Three-Runway System soon to propel Hong Kong’s aviation sector into a new age, the coming years will be an incredibly exciting time for Hong Kong and Cathay with ample new opportunities to grow.
“As the city’s home airline, we are a key contributor towards the future success of the Hong Kong international aviation hub. Our substantial investments further demonstrate our unwavering commitment to fostering Hong Kong’s ongoing economic development.
“With over HKD100 billion being invested in our fleet, cabin products, airport lounges and more, we are firmly turning the page and embarking on a bold new strategy for the future, not just in scope but also in quality. Cathay is entering an exciting new era underpinned by our determination to become one of the world’s greatest service brands.”
Spreading its wings
This investment includes Wednesday’s announcement that Cathay will purchase 30 Airbus A330-900 aircraft and has the right to acquire an additional 30 aircraft. Delivery of the new regional widebody aircraft will start in 2028 and will primarily serve destinations in Asia.
Cathay now has more than 100 new-generation aircraft in its delivery pipeline, with the right to acquire over 80 additional aircraft in future. With orders covering narrowbody, regional widebody, long-haul widebody, and large freighter aircraft, these investments promise to modernise and expand Cathay’s fleet, taking it to the next level.
Furthermore, their enhanced fuel efficiency will be important in reducing carbon emissions and helping Cathay achieve its carbon net-zero by 2050 goal.
Cathay Pacific, the premium airline within the group, will phase in new cabin products over three years, starting with an all-new Aria Suite, Premium Economy, and refreshed economy cabin on its redesigned Boeing 777-300ER aircraft later this year.
A world-leading first-class experience onboard its 777-9s will launch in 2025, followed by a new cabin and flat-bed business-class product on its existing A330 aircraft in 2026.
In addition to new cabin products, complimentary Wi-Fi will be progressively offered to business-class customers and Diamond members in the coming months. This will augment the airline’s ongoing investments in dining and inflight entertainment.
On the ground, Cathay Pacific will be launching newly designed flagship lounges in Hong Kong and Beijing, and, for the first time, a dedicated lounge in New York over the next three years.
A solid rebuilding journey
Wednesday’s investment announcement comes as Cathay reports its interim results for 2024. As a Group, Cathay reported an attributable profit of HKD3.6 billion in the first half of 2024, compared with HKD4.3 billion in the first half of 2023.
Cathay’s airlines and subsidiaries, excluding exceptional items, reported an attributable profit of HKD3.8 billion in the first half of the year, compared to HKD4.8 billion in the first half of 2023. The year-on-year reduction is principally attributable to the normalisation of ticket prices.
Meanwhile, the results from associates, the majority of which are recognised three months in arrears, reflected an attributable loss of HKD342 million, compared with a loss of HKD2.6 billion in the first half of 2023.
Eighteen months after starting its rebuilding journey, Cathay has fully repaid the HKD19.5 billion preference shares investment and paid HKD2.44 billion in dividends to the Hong Kong SAR (HKSAR) Government over its holding period. Meanwhile, Cathay announced its first interim dividend to ordinary shareholders, totalling approximately HKD1.3 billion. This is after Cathay paid its ordinary shareholders HKD2.8 billion in dividends for 2023.
All aircraft have returned from long-term parking, and Cathay remains on track to reach 100% of its pre-pandemic flights within the first quarter of 2025 as planned. To support that pace of growth, Cathay is making good progress by increasing its group headcount by 5,000 people this year to 29,000.
Cathay strives to build Hong Kong as an international aviation hub that connects people to the most exciting places in the world. Combined, the two airlines, Cathay Pacific and HK Express, currently fly to more than 80 passenger destinations across the globe, and this number is expected to rise to 100 by 2025. So far, in 2024, 10 new destinations have already been announced, eight of which have commenced services, with Riyadh and Cairns coming later this year.
KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, 8 August 2024: With the Costa Serena set to return to its homeport in Port Klang, Malaysia, this December, Hwajing Travel is unveiling a new 6D5N itinerary that explores Vietnam and Hong Kong.
This initiative comes as Malaysia’s cruise industry receives a boost from Transport Minister Anthony Loke’s announcement on upcoming developments to strengthen its position as a homeport destination, in line with The Visit Malaysia 2026 tourism goals to advance the cruise sector.
Hwajing Travel and Tours Managing Director Kenny Cheong.
“I’m thrilled about the joint statement from the Transport Minister and the Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister, as well as establishing a technical committee to promote cruise industry development. The initiatives to enhance our cruise terminal facilities to accommodate international cruise ships and streamline immigration clearance for cruise passengers mark a significant step forward for cruise tourism in Malaysia,” said Hwajing Travel and Tours Managing Director Kenny Cheong.
He added: “In addition to hosting Seatrade Cruise Asia in 2026, one of the largest cruise industry events, the targeted improvements to the cruise passenger experience will position Malaysia as a premier cruise destination and a key player in Southeast Asia’s cruise market.”
6D5N Vietnam and Hong Kong / Southeast Asia ‘cruise-cations’
Hwajing Travel offers a special 6D5N cruise onboard the Costa Serena, sailing from Port Klang on 15 December to Phu My and Hong Kong. From Phu My, Vietnam, guests can visit the bustling Ho Chi Minh City before continuing on a relaxing vacation to the iconic harbour city of Hong Kong.
The cruise is priced from MYR1599 per person, coupled with early bird promotional perks such as “Kids Cruise Free” and 10% off for Seniors, offering exceptional value for multi-generational family holidays to Vietnam and Hong Kong. There is also a 50% discount on the original price for the third and fourth passengers. This is a repositioning one-way cruise which excludes air tickets.
In December, Hwajing Travel also offers three other exciting voyages from Port Klang, Malaysia: a 4D3N trip to Phuket and a 3D2N trip to Penang. It is the only cruise ship sailing from Port Klang to Phuket in December, making it perfect for a fuss-free, inexpensive and inclusive island vacation.
The Costa Serena Experience
Once on board and sailing from Port Klang, guests can enjoy a myriad of culinary, recreational, and entertainment experiences such as the Venice Carnival Party or a ride down the Water Chute Slide, which is coupled with plenty of fun activities for all ages. Restaurants on the Costa Serena serve buffets with signature Italian and Asian dishes.
DENPASAR, Indonesia, 8 August 2024: AirAsia is gearing up for the launch of its first-ever roundtrip flights between Bali, Indonesia, and Cairns in North Queensland, Australia.
Commencing 14 August, the airline will offer a special promotional sale with seats starting from AUD159*.
Photo credit: AirAsia. Low-cost airline makes giant steps into North Queensland with flights from Bali, Indonesia.
The sale from now until 18 August 2024 for a travel period spanning 15 August until 30 March 2025 provides value seekers many options to bag a bargain.
Operating initially three weekly flights between Bali (Denpasar) and Cairns, the gateway city of North Queensland, the new services also connect to the airline group’s extensive network, comprising seven airlines under the AirAsia brand, flying to over 130 destinations in Southeast Asia and beyond.
These special pre-launch fares, starting from just AUD159*, between Cairns and Bali, are available now via the AirAsia website or the AirAsia Move app.
Indonesia AirAsia Flight Schedule from Bali (DPS) to Cairns (CNS)
*Fares on sale are all inclusive of applicable taxes and charges.
MANILA, 8 August 2024: Cebu Pacific continues to expand its regional network as it restores international flights and launches additional domestic routes from Davao, the largest city in Mindanao, Philippines.
Starting 28 October 2024, CEB will operate direct three-weekly flights between Davao and Bangkok-Don Mueang.
CEB will add flights from Davao to Bangkok and domestic flights to Caticlan, Puerto Princesa, and Tacloban.
The airline is also launching daily flights from Davao to Caticlan and Puerto Princesa on 27 October 2024, and three-weekly flights to and from Tacloban will start on 29 October 2024.
“We are excited to restore international flights and operate additional domestic routes from our hub in Mindanao. Through Cebu Pacific’s extensive network and value-for-money fares, more travellers from Davao will now be able to discover what the Philippines and the rest of the world has to offer,” said CEB President and Chief Commercial Officer Xander Lao.
Passengers from Davao can now visit Bangkok on direct flights. Bangkok is famed as a shopping paradise with a rich cultural heritage and famous entertainment scene.
CEB is offering an ongoing seat sale to encourage travel until 15 August 2024. Passengers can book flights across these additional routes for as low as PHP 1 one-way base fare, exclusive of fees and charges. The travel period is from 21 October 2024 to 31 March 2025.
CEB currently flies to 35 domestic and 26 international destinations across Asia, Australia, and the Middle East.
GURUGRAM, India, 8 August 2024: Air India and Merlin Entertainments, a global leader in location-based family entertainment, have entered a partnership, linked to the airline’s loyalty programme.
The Air India Flying Returns loyalty programme members will earn Reward Points when they buy tickets to LEGOLAND theme parks.
Air India Flying Returns members can earn up to 10 Reward Points per INR100 spent across five participating LEGOLAND locations, namely Windsor (UK), New York and California (US), Dubai (UAE), and Malaysia.
Air India Head of Marketing, Loyalty & E-commerce Sunil Suresh said: “This partnership enables families to create lasting memories at LEGOLAND® destinations worldwide while also earning valuable Reward Points towards future flights and travel experiences with Air India. Flying Returns is witnessing a rapid evolution into becoming one of the most attractive airline loyalty programmes globally, and this partnership is a yet another reflection of our commitment to delivering exceptional value and experiences to our loyal guests.”
This announcement marks the latest step in the airline’s continuing effort to transform Flying Returns. It comes as the airline enters a new phase of its five-year transformation journey.
In April this year, Air India overhauled Flying Returns, introducing a simplified new structure, more customer-friendly features, renamed tiers, and an updated identity for the programme. The revamped Flying Returns moves away from the legacy model of miles-based point collection to a more equitable spend-based approach while offering members instant global status and privileges worldwide.
Over the last 18 months, Air India has added over 50 partners for Flying Returns to offer greater ease, more rewards, and recognition for its members.
SINGAPORE, 8 August 2024: Cambodia’s leading hotel group, Sun and Moon (SMH), has inked a strategic partnership with Trip Affiliates Network to increase direct bookings through preferred travel agents, wholesalers, and corporate clients.
Sun & Moon Hotels Group Director of Sales & Marketing Rithy KRUY commented: “TA Network has enabled Sun and Moon Hotels to manage conservative wholesale contracts digitally with full functionality, making our B2B operations faster.
“We can efficiently manage dynamic rates, like an OTA, and work with dynamic wholesalers. We are excited to have instant access to all major channels integrated with the TA Network ecosystem.”
SMH will streamline inventory management by reducing manual errors in hotel contract maintenance. This automation will help prevent overbooking and underbooking issues.
TA Network’s digital payment solutions, including virtual cards and bank accounts, will enable seamless global transactions while improving payment processes and reducing cross-border and foreign exchange fees. The integration will allow SMH to manage wholesale contracts digitally, improving efficiency in lead time, booking windows, and stay pattern promotions. Being part of the TA Network travel ecosystem further builds distribution channels with integrated connectivities and channels.
TA Network Regional Director of Partnerships & Growth David Lai added: “Hotels are increasingly looking for dynamic tools to enhance direct online booking partnerships with preferred agents and corporates, utilising process automation solutions and seamless online payment services.”
BANGKOK, 8 August 2024: Centara Hotels & Resorts, a leading hotel operator headquartered in Thailand, announced on Tuesday its outstanding performance in the Institutional Investor’s 2024 Asia Pacific (ex-Japan) Executive Team rankings.
The company secured eight prestigious awards and showcased its excellence in multiple categories.
Institutional Investor, a renowned US-based research and international publisher focusing on global finance, conducted its 14th Annual Asia Executive Team survey with participation from 4,943 buy-side professionals managing an estimated USD2 trillion in Asia (ex-Japan) equities and 951 sell-side analysts.
A total of 1,669 companies and 2,595 individuals across 18 sectors were nominated, with evaluations based on key areas including Financial Disclosure, Services & Communication, ESG, and Board of Directors, as well as attributes for CEOs, CFOs and the Best IR Professionals.
Centara Hotels & Resorts secured the following accolades in the distinguished Gaming & Lodging category:
“These achievements reflect the confidence of investors and analysts in Centara Hotels & Resorts, highlighting the company’s strength in financial oversight, risk management, and ethical practices, as well as its commitment to timely, transparent, and accurate communication with external stakeholders,” the hotel group noted in a press statement.
LANGKAWI, 8 August 2024: Are you ready for a gastronomic journey that will tantalise your taste buds? Langkawi, a tropical paradise known for its stunning beaches and lush landscapes, is a hidden treasure trove of fantastic food experiences.
We asked Langkawi’s travel influencers to introduce a culinary adventure with must-visit places that promise delectable dishes and unforgettable vibes. They came up with 26 great places to dine or sip coffee. Here is Part 2, focusing on great places serving delectable cakes, refreshing coffee and lots more.
PART 2: COFFEE AND CAKES — A SWEET INTERLUDE
11. Co B Diem Langkawi
(Photo credit to FB Co B Diem @sebastianchong).
Situated in the heart of Kuah, Langkawi’s capital, Co B Diem is a distinctive, chic, and minimalist café offering a delightful blend of brewed coffee and delectable Western cuisine. What sets this café apart is its creative touch – with dual-sized doors, one for adults and another for kids, adding a playful element. While children frolic on slides, parents indulge in flavorful meals. The café’s cosy ambience even allows guests to strum guitars, reflecting the owners’ artistic flair and their refreshing contribution to Langkawi’s culinary scene.
Restaurant Name: Co B Diem
Address: 55, Kampung Padang Lalang Kuah, Jalan Penarak, Langkawi. Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday: 0830 to 1600. Reservations: 011-1505 8720.
12. Koffeemilia Langkawi
(Photo credit to FB Koffeemilia).
At Koffeemilia, where coffee is elevated to an art form, they take their brews seriously, catering to the most discerning of coffee lovers. Nestled in a rustic setting that perfectly captures the island vibe, this café offers more than just exceptional java; it’s an experience. With the rhythmic beats of Rasta music and a laid-back atmosphere, you’ll find yourself lost in a caffeinated ambience. And don’t miss out on their famous Angus beef burger — a culinary delight that perfectly complements their stellar coffee selection. You can’t stroll by without popping in for a sip and a bite.
Restaurant Name: Koffeemilia
Address: 231 Jalan Pantai Tengah, Kampung Padang Putih, 07000 Langkawi. Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday: 0800 to 1800. Reservations: 04 9555681.
13. Coffee & Nuts Telaga 7
(Photo credit to IG coffee.langkawi).
Begin your day on a delightful note with the perfection served at Coffee & Nuts Telaga 7 before heading to the waterfalls. Alternatively, grab your coffee to go for a warm and cozy experience while enjoying the waterfall.
Café Name: Coffee & Nuts Telaga 7
Address: 2, Jalan Telaga Tujuh, Langkawi. Opening Hours: Monday to Wednesday, Friday 1000 to 1800; Thursday 1200 to 1800. Closed on Wednesday. Contact: 012 503 0887.
14. Heehee Concept Store
Heehee Concept Store @ Maha Tower is an Instagram-worthy spot that transcends generational boundaries. Whether you’re a part of Gen Z or not, the youthful ambience, seaside cakes, and vibrant orange and blue concept store below Maha Tower make it a delightful experience.
Café Name: Heehee Concept Store
Address: MAHA Tower, L1A-03, Persiaran Mahawangsa, Kuah, Langkawi. Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday 1000 to 2200. Contact: 014 631 6377.
15. The Fisherman’s Wharf Langkawi
(Photo credit to IG fishermanswharflgk).
The Fisherman’s Wharf Langkawi is where entertainment thrives with its talented buskers, sea sports and cruise activities and delectable dining experiences.
This vibrant hub is not merely a collection of eateries and shops; it’s a comprehensive holiday destination unlike any other. From the renowned Charlie’s Bar & Grill to the upscale Jake’s Charbroil Steakhouse, the inviting Barbosa Pizza Joint, and Scarborough Fish & Chips culinary delights await at every turn. Plus, there are amenities ranging from cruise and dive operators to marine suppliers and a 44-room Langkawi Yacht Club Hotel.
Café Name: The Fisherman’s Wharf Langkawi
Address: Fisherman’s Wharf Langkawi, Royal Langkawi Yacht Club, Jalan Dato’ Syed Omar 07000 Kuah, Langkawi, Kedah. Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday 1000 to 2300. Contact: +604 9664078.
16. The Kelapa Cafe by TRV Langkawi
(Photo credit to IG thekelapacafe_trv).
Indulge in a delightful array of flavours at The Kelapa Cafe by TRV Langkawi, where the fusion of East and West creates a harmonious dining experience. Explore a diverse selection of local “kampung” dishes, and if you crave Western cuisine, the menu will certainly not disappoint. Located in the tranquil Tanjong Ru Village Villa and Cottage, this cozy and intimate café restaurant is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.
Café Name: The Kelapa Cafe by TRV Langkawi
Address: Tanjung Rhu Village Villa & Cottages 61 Tanjung Rhu Village Villas & Cottages, Jalan Tanjung Rhu, Langkawi. Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday 0900 to 1700. Contact: 011 1985 3357.
17. Halaman 1295
(Photo credit to IG halaman.1295).
Welcome to Halaman 1295, your friendly neighbourhood café. Nestled in a corner-lot house turned café, the name “Halaman” translates to your house yard in Malay. Here, you can enjoy freshly brewed coffee and delicious cakes in a cosy atmosphere.
Café Name: Halaman 1295
Address: 11, Lrg. Seroja 2, Taman Seroja, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah. Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday 0900 to 2400. Contact: 017 549 8827.
SINGAPORE, 7 August 2024: Pandaw is rolling out the red carpet with refreshed Christmas and New Year sailings across Indian and Mekong region destinations scheduled for late December 2024 to early January 2025.
With no single supplement, specially crafted festive menus and festive onboard entertainment, three Pandaw expeditions celebrate Christmas and New Year on iconic rivers in India and Southeast Asia.
Here are the three river cruises headlining festive season celebrations
Vietnam and Cambodia
Classic Mekong Upstream 21 Dec 2024 – 28 Dec 2024
Pandaw’s Classic Mekong expedition sails from central Saigon. Embarking or disembarking in Vietnam’s bustling metropolis, the seven-night expedition takes intrepid travellers along the mighty Mekong River through the vast delta rich in human life and endeavours to the serene countryside of Cambodia.
There can be no tapestry of river life as fascinating and varied as the River Mekong. Pandaw’s specially designed expedition ships are the perfect hosts to explore this delightful region in comfort and style. Travellers will experience authentic culture, people, and adventures as we sail off the beaten track in keeping with the Pandaw spirit.
India
Lower Ganges 26 December 2024 – 02 January 2025
There can be no river in the world as sacred as the Ganges River, and an expedition on the Lower Ganges or Hooghly is one of the prettiest river journeys imaginable. The river wends its way through the lush countryside of West Bengal, which has culturally significant towns crammed with temples and palaces. A vibrant rural life abounds, and there is never a dull moment as we sedately ply this pleasant waterway.
You will start or end our newly updated seven-night itinerary in either the former colonial capital of Kolkata or Farakka, the location of the famous Farakka Barrage, where the sacred Ganges flows into the Hoogly River. With a one-way first-class train ticket included between Farakka and Kolkata, this is the perfect way to explore West Bengal in true Pandaw comfort and style.
Laos
Laos Mekong Downstream 18 Dec 2024 – 28 Dec 2024
Laos Mekong Upstream 20 Dec 2024 – 30 Dec 2024
Enjoy the splendour of Laos on Pandaw’s 10-night expedition on the Upper Mekong. Sailing between Chiang Khong on the Thai-Laos border and through Laos toward Vientiane, the old French capital, you will witness stunning scenery, meet amazingly warm and friendly locals, and learn about Laos’ national animal, the majestic elephant. We stop for three nights at the UNESCO World Heritage City of Luang Prabang with its dazzling wood-carved monasteries before heading deep into the mountains through rapids and gorges on our high-powered little Pandaw vessels.
