DELHI, India, 17 July 2024: Cruise fans from India will soon have a brand-new experience at sea with Resorts World Cruises, which is expanding its sailings to the Arabian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman with the cruise ship Resorts World One.
Indian cruise fans can discover the fly-cruise experience from India with a flight to Dubai and embark on a cruise adventure on Resorts World One.
Resorts World One will sail from Dubai from 18 October 2024 onwards, offering itineraries that include the two-night Sir Bani Yas Weekend Cruise with departures on Fridays; a three-night Oman Cruise to Khasab and Muscat departing on Sundays; and a two-night Doha Cruise departing on Wednesdays. Guests can combine two or all three of the itineraries to increase the cruise length up to seven nights.
Resorts World Cruises operates cruises with homeports in Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Indonesia. With the upcoming homeport deployment in Dubai, Resorts World One is expected to make 75 calls in the region with 150,000 passengers over six months, which will significantly contribute to the growth of cruise tourism in the Arabian Gulf and Gulf of Oman. Resorts World One will attract a new segment of Fly cruise passengers from India, increasing diversity in the Arabian Gulf cruise market.
BANGKOK, 17 July 2024: Thai AirAsia will add its latest domestic route, Don Mueang-Lampang, starting on 1 October 2024, with daily flights between the capital city and the third-largest city in North Thailand.
Promotional fares start as low as THB990 when booking on AirAsia MOVE and airasia.com until 28 July 2024 for travel from 1 October 2024 to 29 March 2025. The airline will fly the route daily using an A320, competing with Bangkok Airways, which operates flights from Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport to Lampang.
Flight FD3923 departs Bangkok (DMK) at 1110 and arrives in Lampang at 1220. Flight FD 3924 departs Lampang at 1250 and arrives in Bangkok (DMK) at 1405.
Thai AirAsia CEO Santisuk Klongchaiya pointed out: “The demand for domestic routes has continued to rise, and AirAsia is matching the growth by continuing to connect the dots across Thailand. In the first half of 2024, the load factor average for domestic flights at Thai AirAsia was 90%, thanks to both domestic travellers and international visitors who make AirAsia their preferred mode of transportation to explore the Kingdom using the AirAsia network.
“I am confident this new route will be as popular as other destinations due to its charm and many attractions. With the Lampang Airport expansion now completed, we look forward to being of service to guests from both cities starting 1 October.”
Lampang is Thai AirAsia’s 25th domestic destination. The carrier now holds the largest market share for domestic passenger traffic. The carrier offers 34 domestic routes and 612 flights a week, connecting all the country’s regions.
The province of Lampang is known for its ancient temples, including Wat Phra That Lampang Luang (the temple for people born in the year of the ox), Wat Phra Phutthabat Sutthawat (home to a foot impression of the Lord Buddha and a majestic pagoda) and Wat Prathat Doi Prachan (the mountaintop temple). Chae Son National Park attracts nature tourists, while Ban Pa Miang welcomes cultural travellers. Visitors can also ride through Lampang town in a horse buggy, shop at Kad Kong Ta Market and find original and now trendy rooster bowls at the Dhanabadee Ceramic Museum.
SINGAPORE, 16 July 2024: When we think of the Taj Mahal, it often evokes a sense of awe and wonder. Its breathtaking architectural design, adorned with intricate marble inlays and meticulously arranged symmetrical gardens, captivates the viewers, making it a timeless beauty. Situated along the tranquil banks of the river Yamuna, this masterpiece stands as a timeless symbol of love and eternal devotion.
Visit the Taj Mahal as an extension to Pandaw’s Ganges expeditions. Choose either a 7-night or 14-night Ganges River adventure with pre and post-cruise options to visit India’s ‘Golden triangle.’ Or, for a complete India itinerary in one simple booking, join the Highlights of India 22-night River and land tour.
BANGKOK, 16 July 2024: Thailand is a dream destination for families, and Centara Hotels & Resorts is reimagining flagship family resorts and launching new beachfront retreats.
The global group is also opening more hotels in destinations off the beaten track, giving families and friends the opportunity to explore some of the most enchanting but under-explored attractions that truly capture Thailand’s timeless charm and beauty.
From landmark city hotels in Bangkok to blissful beachfront resorts in exotic islands such as Koh Samui and Phuket, plus world-class hotels in many up-and-coming destinations, Centara’s 42 hotels and resorts are perfect for guests looking for immersive two- or three-centre itineraries in the country.
Uncover Thailand’s hidden gems Newly opened in December 2023, Centara Ayutthaya allows culture-seeking visitors to explore Thailand’s historic former capital city, Ayutthaya. This UNESCO World Heritage-listed riverside temple complex dates from the 1300s. At Centara Ubon, nature lovers can also now explore Thailand’s “Emerald Triangle” – the northeastern region blessed with lush jungles, national parks and the mighty Mekong River.
Idyllic island retreats for every occasion Centara is also strengthening its portfolio of beachfront resorts in Thailand’s tropical islands. Centara Reserve Samui became the world’s first five-star Centara Reserve resort when it opened in late 2021, and the launch of Centara Life Lamai Resort Samui this year will let travellers choose from four distinct brands on the exotic island of Koh Samui. Also, in 2024, the debut of Centara Villas Phi Phi Island will mark the resort’s arrival in Koh Phi Phi, one of the world’s most dazzling destinations, which inspired the movie “The Beach”.
Flagship family resorts reimagined Two of Centara’s most popular flagship resorts are being fully renovated and will be ready to welcome families by the end of 2024. Centara Karon Resort Phuket is nestled on Phuket’s sunset coast and features multiple pools and waterslides, while Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya is a spectacular “Lost World” themed resort with a world-class water park, family accommodation and a private beach.
Discover the wonders of Laos Centara is inviting holidaymakers to step off the beaten track and discover the wonders of Laos, its evocative, culturally rich neighbour, at two new hotels. The opening of COSI Vientiane Nam Phu in March 2024 introduced a new era of affordable lifestyle hospitality to Laos’ capital city, close to the Mekong riverside, and the upcoming Centara Plumeria Resort Pakse will bring Centara’s international service standards and first-class facilities to southern Laos, which is famed for its ancient temples and dramatic waterfalls.
International excellence and global goals These exciting new openings form part of an ambitious development strategy for Centara Hotels & Resorts that will see the launch of iconic properties and intuitive brands all around the globe as the company bids to become one of the world’s top 100 hotel operators by 2027. Centara Grand Hotel Osaka marked the group’s debut in Japan when it opened in 2023, and the launch of Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives later this year will mark the first phase of The Atollia by Centara Hotels & Resorts, a brand-new multi-island destination.
BANGKOK, 16 July 2024: A test run for the new cross-border rail service linking Bangkok to Vientiane was successfully conducted on Saturday, 13 July, Thailand’s National News Bureau (NNT) reported on Sunday. This will pave the way for the official launch of passenger services this Friday.
Advance bookings opened on 10 July. The inaugural train ride will depart from Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal Station in Bangkok this Friday at 2125. The train will reach the Vientian terminal station at 0905 on the following morning.
Ready for international travellers. Photo credit Jason Rolan.
Travellers have a range of ticket options for the overnight journey, with prices varying by cabin class: THB281 for a third-class fan seat; THB 574 for a second-class air-conditioned seat; THB784 for a second-class upper bunk with air conditioning; and THB874 for a second-class lower bunk with air conditioning. Passengers can book their seats up to 180 days in advance at any railway station in Thailand.
Jason Rolan, a travel expert based in Laos and admin of the Facebook group Tourism Professionals Laos, previewed Vientiane’s new Khamsavath Railway Station, the new terminal station on the Bangkok-Vientiane line.
He notes that there are “signs for Lao immigration and visa on arrival, but I’m not sure if they will be available for the first commercial train service,” which will arrive early in the morning of 20 July.
“There’s a ticket window selling rides on the Laos-China Railway,” but to transfer between Vientiane Khamsavath Station and the Lao-China Railway station, you must take a bus or taxi. There is no rail track between the two stations.
“Contrary to initial speculation, there is no Thai immigration in Khamsavath station, so all passengers must disembark at the Thai Lao Friendship Bridge Nong Khai for arrival procedures.”
In a separate post, he confirms that a new bus service operates between Khamsavath station and downtown Vientiane, meeting the train from Bangkok at 0930-0940. The fare for adults is LAK20,000.
Khamsavath Railway Station is located in Nonvai Village, Xaysetha district, Vientiane. It’s the second Vientiane railway station on the Thailand-Laos Northeastern Line, located 7.5 km (4.7 mi) from the former terminus, Thanaleng station. Starting on 19 July, the line will provide a direct train service connecting the two capitals via Nong Khai and the Thai-Laos Friendship Bridge, spanning the Mekong River and terminating at Khamsavath station, 7 km from the city centre.
Photo credit: Jason Rolan. Khamsavath terminal station lobby.
(SOURCE; NNT and additional information from Tourism Professionals Laos).
SINGAPORE, 16 July 2024: Hilton is expanding its portfolio of luxury hotels by adding nearly 400 boutique properties from the Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH) collection.
Effective last week, hundreds of properties became available on all Hilton direct booking channels, including Hilton.com and the Hilton Honors app.
Joining Hilton’s prestigious luxury brand portfolio — Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts, Conrad Hotels & Resorts, LXR Hotels & Resorts and Signia by Hilton — the diverse collection of participating SLH hotels offers travellers new ways of staying with Hilton in intimate spaces and unique places such as rustic huts and woodland treehouses to rainforest retreats and coastal villas.
Through the exclusive partnership, members of Hilton Honors, the award-winning guest loyalty programme, can earn and redeem Points for SLH stays. Additionally, they will enjoy exclusive benefits at SLH’s city, beach, and resort hotels, which offer even more ways to dream of aspirational travel experiences.
Hilton Honors members can elevate their stay at participating SLH hotels with exclusive benefits, including earning and redeeming Points, free WiFi and a guaranteed member discount. Gold and Diamond members also enjoy space-available room upgrades and continental breakfast for up to two guests. Hilton Honors members will appreciate the continued flexibility and value of the award-winning program, including benefits like Points & Money payment options, no resort fees on stays booked using all Points and 5th Standard Reward Night Free.
“Through this collaboration, Hilton guests and Hilton Honors members will receive a warm welcome at SLH member hotels, allowing them to experience our distinctive approach to hospitality,” said
Small Luxury Hotels of the World chair Shaun Leleu commented: “This alliance expands the reach of our boutique hotels to Hilton’s loyal and discerning clientele, transforming the global landscape for independently owned hotels in a remarkable way.”
SINGAPORE, 16 July 2024: Just weeks ahead of the Summer Olympics, traveller interest in France continues to rise, according to Amadeus business intelligence data.
Based on booking data until early June, international air travel to France was up 56% for the Olympic travel period between 24 July and 13 August, while domestic air travel was up 31%.
All host cities will benefit from the Olympic and Paralympic games. Paris is already one of the world’s top tourist destinations, but during the Summer Olympics, the City of Light expects 72% more travellers than last year.
Between 28 August and 8 September, the Paralympics will also boost travel to Paris by 16%, with special interest from travellers from the US, Spain and Canada.
For the northern city of Lille, which is hosting basketball and handball, visitors will more than quadruple – overall bookings to Lille are up an astounding 203% compared to last summer. Most of these visitors will be from France: the city will see 300% growth in domestic travellers, compared to 181% in international travellers.
Meanwhile, overall bookings to Bordeaux, which is hosting football, are up by 38%, the same increase as bookings to Marseille, which is hosting sailing and football.
Where are travellers coming from?
Domestic travel in France increased by 31% compared to the same time last year, but most of the growth came from international travellers from all over the world, with a 56% increase.
● In Paris, most travellers will come from the US, Japan and Canada.
● Down south, Marseille will see more Americans, while a strong British presence will join Algerians up north in Lille.
● In Bordeaux, the British and the Americans will also show strongly.
● Nice and Lyon will see more Americans and Germans.
● In Nantes, Germans and Canadians will have the biggest footprint.
Hotel occupancy rates are on the rise
According to Amadeus’ Demand360+® business intelligence data recorded on 31 May 31, occupancy rates in France for the last week of July are up 86% compared with last year and up 88% for the first week of August.
In Paris, hotels are almost full. The occupancy rate is 81% the week of 28 July and 76% the week of 4 August. Last-minute planners may have a hard time finding a room.
In Lille, hotel occupancy rates are 56% for the week of 28 July and 35% for the first week of August, 171% and 91% higher than for the same periods last year. In Marseille, occupancy rates are nearing 70% in the last week of July and 57% in the first week of August — more than double the occupancy rates compared to the same time in 2023.
Regarding alternative accommodations, like Airbnb, nights sold in Paris are up 64% for the Olympics dates and 74% for the Paralympics dates, compared to last year.
With more than 50% of hotel bookings made 0-14 days before a stay, last-minute travellers may be surprised. Right now, the average daily rate (ADR) is down 13% in Paris at USD724 and down 7% at USD616 in the rest of France, compared to a previous analysis on 1 April 2024.
With flight bookings and occupancy rates way higher than average throughout Paris and the other Olympic and Paralympic host cities, France’s hospitality sector is in for a busy summer season.
SINGAPORE, 16 July 2024: Qantas is flying direct to Paris from Perth, connecting Australia and France for the first time.
The new direct flights between Perth and Paris mark the return of the Flying Kangaroo operating services to the City of Light for the first time in 20 years.
The route will cut around three hours off the fastest travel time between the two cities and is the longest nonstop flight to France from anywhere in the world.
Flights will initially operate four times per week during the busy European summer and the Olympic and Paralympic Games before moving to three services per week from mid-August. The new route will add 75,000 seats between Australia and Europe each year.
Qantas Group CEO Vanessa Hudson said the national carrier’s return to Paris followed the success of its nonstop services in Europe.
“There is a lot of excitement amongst our customers and crew that Qantas is returning to Paris and that it’s a nonstop flight between Perth and Paris,” Hudson said.
“In recent years, we have seen a significant increase in customers wanting to fly direct on long haul routes and avoiding stopovers wherever possible. Our direct flights from Perth to London and Rome have some of the highest customer satisfaction on our international network. With these new flights, our customers can depart Perth in the evening and arrive in Paris in time to enjoy brunch overlooking the Eiffel Tower.”
Western Australian Deputy Premier and Minister for Tourism Rita Saffioti said direct flights formed a major part of the WA Government’s overarching tourism strategy.
“We know that people are more likely to travel to places they can access easily, so this is another big win for tourism in Western Australia.
“With seamless connections from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and other major cities, Perth will be the gateway to Paris for Australia. For French tourists visiting Australia’s natural wonders, Qantas has connections to more than 60 destinations across the country.
The new service will use the airline’s Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, specially designed for long-haul travel.
The route launch follows the recent announcement of a landmark agreement between Qantas and Perth Airport that will help unlock the airline’s western hub, which, along with the group’s fleet renewal programme, will see the group add 4.4 million additional seats to and from Perth by 2031.
KUALA LUMPUR, 16 July 2024: Malaysia Airlines’ first A330neo recently rolled out of the Airbus paint shop in Toulouse, showcasing the airline’s signature Malaysia flag livery.
The completion of the painting phase marks a significant milestone in the aircraft’s production journey. Next, the aircraft will be equipped with its state-of-the-art Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines and undergo performance tests in preparation for its first flight.
During this stage, all cabin systems will be tested including comprehensive air flow and conditioning checks, lighting, galleys, lavatories, seating, and in-flight entertainment systems.
Simultaneously, Airbus will conduct advanced general performance tests to ensure the aircraft meets all specifications and is ready for delivery. Malaysia Airlines is set to receive its first A330neo in Q3 this year.
The introduction of the A330neo is an important component of the Malaysia Aviation Group’s (MAG) fleet renewal strategy, initiated in 2022 by selecting 20 A330neo aircraft. The A330neo will serve routes across Asia, Oceania and the Middle East.
GURUGRAM, 16 July 2024: Air India has rolled out an easy-to-use baggage tracking feature on its mobile app and website.
Real-time baggage tracking information from its network airports and a scalable cloud application will keep passengers in touch with their baggage throughout the journey and significantly reduce concern about their checked-in bags. Air India is one of just a few airlines worldwide that provide this convenience directly to guests without any intervention from airline staff.
Designed and developed by Air India’s digital technology and design teams in collaboration with the airline’s airport operations department, the feature offers a convenient option for end-to-end baggage tracking with minimal data entry.
Passengers can track their checked-in bags by scanning their baggage receipts’ barcodes. Alternatively, this information becomes automatically available in the ‘My Trips’ section of the mobile app soon after the bags are checked if the trip has been added there. The feature is also available under the Book & Manage section of the Air India website under the ‘Track Your Bags’ tab.
Other important features
• Real-time updates: Important details about checked-in bags, such as current location, transit status, and baggage arrival details, along with the local time of events, are provided easily. The status coverage includes all important baggage touchpoints where baggage tracking technology is available, such as check-in, security clearance, aircraft loading, transfers, and arrival in the baggage claim area.
• Tracking of code-share and interline flights: End-to-end baggage tracking will be available across multiple flight segments on Air India. In addition, if the journey includes segments from other airlines in interline or code-share connections belonging to the same reservation, then tracking from those segments is also provided.
• Comprehensive tracking: For guests with multiple checked-in bags, detailed tracking information for each bag is available on a user-friendly interface. Timely notification is also provided via the mobile app when the baggage is checked in. An enhanced range of notifications significant to the tracking experience, like baggage carousel information on arrival, are also in the pipeline.
“In our sustained efforts to enhance the guest experience by embracing innovative digital technology, we can now provide real-time baggage status to our guests,” said Air India Chief Digital and Technology Officer Satya Ramaswamy. “Our mobile app is the ideal platform for our guests to use this feature as it provides specific baggage-related information as part of the ‘My Trips’ segment. Guests can also add baggage tags easily by scanning with the mobile phone’s camera.”
