Sunday, December 14, 2025
Home Blog Page 2

Sarawak Delta Geopark gains UNESCO status

By
Your Stories
-

KUCHING, 10 December 2025: Sarawak Delta Geopark cleared all the hurdles to achieve UNESCO Global Geopark acceptance at the council’s meeting last September and now awaits the ‘Final Endorsement’ by the UNESCO Executive Board in May 2026 to formally welcome it into the ranks of the prestigious global geopark community.

This achievement is the result of a long-term effort that began in 2009, with a serious push starting in 2019. This will make it the first UNESCO Global Geopark in Sarawak and only the third in Malaysia (after Langkawi and Kinabalu).

Photo credit: Sarawak Tourism Board.

Tourism and connectivity initiatives

Sarawak is leveraging the Geopark’s status to drive regional tourism, highlighted by the launch of new Geopark Tourism Packages tagged The Sarawak Delta Geopark Packages Vol 2, in November. It delivers an expanded collection of 42 new thematic itineraries curated by 13 local tour operators, showcasing the Geopark’s geological, cultural, adventure, and biodiversity attractions.

It also coincides with the planned introduction of the Sarawak-owned airline, AirBorneo (taking over from MASWings), which plans to launch services initially with turboprop aircraft and upgrade to jet operations in July 2026.

Sarawak’s state government is exploring direct international routes, including a proposed service to Jeju Island in South Korea (which is also a UNESCO Global Geopark). This move aims to create a symbolic link in tourism between the two UNESCO-recognised geological destinations.

Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026)

The launch of the new Geopark packages is a key component of Sarawak’s strategy to position itself as a premier destination for sustainable and cultural tourism ahead of the national Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign.

In addition, the formal endorsement of UNESCO Global Geopark status in May 2026, the launch of a Sarawak-branded airline, and the new, comprehensive tourism packages will showcase Borneo Island to a broader international audience.

The Sarawak Delta Geopark is a significant region recognised for its unique blend of geological, biological, and cultural heritage, spanning over 3,100 square kilometres across Kuching, Bau, and Padawan districts.

Surreal atmosphere with limestone features at Wind Cave. Source: sarawakforestry.com.

Featured Geopark destinations

Here are the main attractions and themes you can expect in the Volume 2 packages. The packages are centred around the three main areas of the Geopark: Kuching, Bau, and Padawan.

Thematic itinerary highlights

The 42 packages fall under broad themes designed to appeal to different types of travellers, emphasising authenticity, sustainability, and storytelling.

1. Geological wonders and adventure

These packages focus on the physical landscape, rock formations, and adrenaline-fueled activities.

Ancient rock formations and fossil sites: Guided trails to areas showcasing ancient schists, serpentinites, and other geological features that tell the story of the Earth’s history in the region.

Cave Exploration: Tours focus on the Wind and Fairy Caves, including their unique ecosystems (biosites) and geological structure.

River adventures: Kayaking, rafting, and boating excursions, such as the Semadang River Kayak experience.

2. Culture and community immersion

These itineraries focus on engaging with the diverse indigenous communities and historical sites.

Longhouse Stays: Authentic experiences at places like Annah Rais Homestay to learn about the traditional customs, cuisine, and daily life of the Bidayuh community.

Living museum visits: Deep-dive tours of the Sarawak Cultural Village to witness traditional longhouses, cultural performances, and hands-on activities like weaving.

Historical city tours: Exploring Kuching’s colonial history (White Rajahs era) and heritage landmarks like Fort Margherita and the Old Court House, connecting them to the Geopark’s role as an ancient trading hub.

Gastronomy tours: Packages that specifically highlight the region’s distinctive, local, and flavour-packed gastronomy, often tied to village-level cooking.

3. Biodiversity and ecotourism

Focusing on the delta’s rich flora, fauna, and conservation efforts.

Wildlife encounters: Visits to the Semenggoh Wildlife Centre to see orangutans and other wildlife.

Birdwatching: Specialised tours to the Selabat Mudflats and coastal areas for viewing migratory shorebirds.

Mangrove and delta cruises: Evening tours to spot wildlife, particularly fireflies in the mangrove ecosystems, showcasing the biodiversity of the delta.

The Sarawak Delta Geopark Packages Vol 2 offers a more profound and transformative journey, reinforcing Sarawak’s reputation as a world-class, responsible travel destination in anticipation of its full UNESCO Global Geopark recognition in 2026.

How to book Geopark tour packages?

Contact Sarawak’s tour operators

The packages were developed by members of the Association of Sarawak Inbound Agencies (ASIA). It is highly recommended to contact established local tour operators in Kuching, Sarawak, and ask specifically for the “Sarawak Delta Geopark Package Volume 2”.

https://sarawakinbound.com/.

Check official tourism websites

Sarawak Tourism Board (STB): Search their official website or travel sections for updated tour packages and promotional materials.

Sarawak Tourism Board. 

Check out: Exploring the Wonders of Sarawak Delta Geopark.

Photo credit: Tourism Malaysia Sarawak. Launch of the Sarawak Delta Geopark Packages Vol 2, featuring 42 thematic itineraries presented by 13 tour operators in Sarawak.

(Source: Sarawak Tourism Board and additional reporting)

Hotel Okura signs its first resort in Japan

By
Newsdesk
-

TOKYO, 10 December 2025: Hotel Okura Co Ltd, a leading global Japanese hotel operator, confirms the Okura Resort Hakone Gora, the first Okura Resort property in Japan, will open in 2029. 

Developed in collaboration with Nishimatsu Construction Co Ltd, the new property will be located in the renowned hot spring destination of Hakone. 

Photo credit Hotel Okura.

An operational management agreement was signed in July 2025 with Nishimatsu Construction, which will develop and own the property, while designating Hotel Okura as the hotel management company under the Okura Resort brand.

With its rich natural environment and beautiful seasonal landscapes, Hakone, one of Japan’s leading hot spring regions, attracts almost 20 million visitors from within Japan and from overseas every year. A significant number of them stay overnight to enjoy the area’s hot springs, museums and natural surroundings.

The new hotel will be situated in the resort of Gora, an area blessed with abundant hot springs. It will offer views of the Hakone mountains, including the iconic Myojogatake. Guests can experience local attractions, including the area’s famous summer festival, while enjoying the majestic natural surroundings throughout the seasons.

Comprising a West and East Wing, the hotel will feature 58 rooms, each equipped with a private open-air bath drawing on the renowned Owakudani Hot Spring waters. 

With a generous average room size of 63 sqm, including balconies, guests will enjoy spacious comfort. The spacious bathing area will feature an indoor hot spring bath and dry and mist saunas. Dining options will include a fine-dining restaurant with a teppanyaki counter and a bar lounge in the lobby, all designed to offer a high-quality retreat in harmony with Gora’s natural beauty.

Tourism Malaysia and MHTC inks partnership

By
Newsdesk
-

KUALA LUMPUR, 10 December 2025: Tourism Malaysia and the Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council (MHTC) have opened a landmark partnership through the signing of a Memorandum of Cooperation (MOC) in Kuala Lumpur. 

This collaboration marks a significant step in enhancing Malaysia’s competitiveness in the global medical tourism sector as the country prepares for Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) and the Malaysia Year of Medical Tourism 2026 (MYMT 2026).

Tourism Malaysia Director General Datuk Manoharan Periasamy (centre left)  and MHTC CEO Suriaghandi Suppiah (centre right).

The MOC establishes a strategic framework for both agencies to strengthen Malaysia’s branding as a world-class medical and wellness destination. It outlines joint promotional efforts, enhances industry collaboration, and expands market outreach to attract high-value healthcare travellers. This supports the national tourism agenda for VM2026, which aims to welcome 47 million international visitors, with medical tourism positioned as a key contributor.

Commenting on the collaboration, Tourism Malaysia Director General Datuk Manoharan Periasamy said: “This partnership reflects our commitment to elevating Malaysia as a premier destination that blends exceptional tourism experiences with world-class healthcare services. As we approach Visit Malaysia 2026, the medical tourism segment will play a vital role in attracting quality visitors and boosting tourism receipts. We are confident that this partnership with MHTC will foster meaningful growth opportunities and further strengthen Malaysia’s position on the global stage.”

MHTC CEO Suriaghandi Suppiah commented: “Malaysia Healthcare is proud to partner with Tourism Malaysia to promote the Malaysia Year of Medical Tourism 2026. This MOC is designed to strengthen joint promotional activities and ensure a smooth experience for healthcare travellers. Our united efforts will help position Malaysia as a safe, reliable, and preferred destination for medical and wellness treatments.”

Under this collaboration, Tourism Malaysia and MHTC will coordinate targeted promotional activities across priority markets, including ASEAN, South Asia (Bangladesh and Sri Lanka), East Asia (China), the Middle East and Africa. These regions have been identified for their strong demand for quality medical and wellness treatments.

Joint marketing efforts, trade engagements, and data-sharing initiatives will support the development of integrated healthcare travel packages and strengthen Malaysia’s presence in these markets. The partnership aims to increase global visibility, improve product offerings, and ensure seamless travel experiences that attract higher-spending international travellers.

Medical tourism remains one of Malaysia’s most influential niche segments, contributing significantly to the tourism ecosystem through more extended average stays, higher per-visitor expenditure, and multiplier effects across hospitality, retail, transportation, and wellness services. Malaysia’s reputation for internationally accredited hospitals, highly skilled multilingual medical professionals, competitive treatment pricing, and exceptional hospitality continues to make the country an attractive choice for patients seeking quality healthcare abroad. This partnership is timely and essential as Malaysia aims to elevate its position among the world’s leading medical tourism destinations.

This collaboration between Tourism Malaysia and MHTC represents a unified national effort to maximise the potential of medical tourism as Malaysia prepares to welcome millions of visitors in 2026, further strengthening the country’s global tourism competitiveness and contributing to sustainable economic growth.

(Source: Tourism Malaysia)

PG cuts fares for a happy new year

By
Newsdesk
-

BANGKOK, 10 December 2025: Bangkok Airways launches its year-end promotion, ‘Super Sale 12.12’, offering low fares for both domestic and international routes. 

Fares start at THB1,430 for domestic routes, and THB2,960 for international routes. The promotional fares for international flights include airport taxes, ticketing service fees, and fuel surcharges. 

Photo credit: Bangkok Airways.

The sale will open for booking on the airline’s website from 12 to 16 December 2025, for travel from 1 January 2026 onwards.

FlyerBonus members will have exclusive access to book these special fares on 10 to 11 December 2025 before the public sale begins.

This promotion covers 19 destinations (both domestic and international), comprising popular routes such as Bangkok – Chiang Mai, Bangkok – Sukhothai, Bangkok – Trat, Bangkok – Phuket, Bangkok – Krabi, U-Tapao – Phuket, Phuket – Hat Yai, U-Tapao – Samui, Phuket – Samui, Krabi – Samui, Chiang Mai – Phuket (one-way only), Chiang Mai – Krabi (one-way only), Chiang Mai – Samui, Chiang Mai – Bangkok – Samui.

International routes

Bangkok – Luang Prabang, Bangkok – Siem Reap, Bangkok – Phnom Penh, Samui – Singapore and Samui – Hong Kong.

Passengers flying with Bangkok Airways gain a full-service experience with no additional charges. This included 20 kg baggage allowance per passenger, complimentary access to passenger lounges at designated airports, In-flight meal service and FlyerBonus points for future rewards.

(Source: Bangkok Airways)

Qatar Airways names new Group CEO

By
Newsdesk
-

DOHA, 10 December 2025: Qatar Airways Group has named Hamad Ali Al‑Khater as Group Chief Executive Officer, effective 7 December 2025, succeeding Engr Badr Mohammed Al‑Meer.

 Al-Khater joins Qatar Airways Group from Hamad International Airport, where he has served as Chief Operating Officer. In that role, he was responsible for ensuring the safety and reliability of airport operations, while leading its infrastructure expansion.

Photo credit: Qatar. Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer Hamad Ali Al-Khater.

Before his tenure at Hamad International Airport, he held senior roles across QatarEnergy, driving business development, deal execution, and leading large-scale strategic and operational initiatives.

Qatar Airways Group Board of Directors Chairman, His Excellency Saad Sherida Al-Kaabi, said: “Qatar Airways Group extends its appreciation to Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer for his service. As we welcome Hamad Ali Al-Khater, we look forward to building on Qatar Airways’ strong foundations and expansive global network, anchored by our exceptional team in Qatar and around the world. With this leadership transition, Qatar Airways Group reaffirms its commitment to delivering world-class experiences, reliability, and innovation to travellers around the globe.”

(Source: Qatar Airways)

MOVE wins three in a row

By
Newsdesk
-

MANAMA, Bahrain, 10 December 2025: AirAsia MOVE (MOVE) has once again been crowned Asia’s Best Travel Booking App at the World Travel Tech Awards 2025, marking the third consecutive year it has been recognised with this prestigious title and reinforcing its position as the region’s leading homegrown online travel agent (OTA).  

MOVE’s continued recognition is underpinned by significant year-on-year growth across users, bookings and partnerships in 2025. 

(Centre) Lim Ben-Jie, Chief People & Partnerships Officer at AirAsia MOVE, accepted the award at the global ceremony held in Bahrain on 8 December, attended by travel industry leaders and innovators worldwide.

Its monthly active users (MAU) remain strong at 15 million. Bookings across major verticals also grew, with hotel bookings up nearly 40% and SNAP (Flight + Hotel bundle) bookings climbing 30%. Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur and Kota Kinabalu were the top destinations for SNAP bookers. 

MOVE also expanded its direct airline partner network on its platform this year, adding Sri Lankan Airlines, Royal Brunei, Ethiopian Airlines, and Vietjet Air (via GalaxyJoy), bringing the total to more than 70.

AirAsia MOVE CEO Nadia Omer said: “Winning this award for the third consecutive year is a meaningful recognition of what we are building, a travel platform born in Asean, made for Asean and now serving Asia and beyond. We have evolved from an airline app into a truly global, multi-airline, multi-product OTA, while staying true to our vision of being Asean’s favourite travel app by creating inclusive, fun and affordable journeys. This year, we’ve also strengthened regional partnerships by working closely with tourism authorities in Thailand, Indonesia, Singapore and Dubai Tourism to drive travel growth together.”

Powered by enhancements to its AI-driven AskBo chatbot, a refreshed interface, and exciting offerings such as MOVETIX, its global live-events ticketing platform, and Cancel for Any Reason, MOVE’s next phase will emphasise social discovery, enabling users to find trip inspiration through content and allowing them to book it all seamlessly in one place. With access to over 700 airlines and over a million hotels, MOVE remains committed to being a platform that keeps travellers curious, connected and inspired.   

About MOVE (AirAsia MOVE)
MOVE, formerly known as airasia Superapp, is the newest online travel agent (OTA) offering travel services such as flights and hotel bookings from over 700 airlines, including AirAsia, and over a million hotels worldwide, plus airport transfers, travel insurance, and duty-free shopping. 

(Source: AirAsia MOVE)

Brand USA launches America the Beautiful Game

By
Newsdesk
-

SINGAPORE, 10 December 2025: With the world’s largest single-sport event set to return to the US for the first time in over three decades, Brand USA has announced the launch of America the Beautiful Game, a dynamic new trip planning hub designed to guide football fans as they explore the United States before, during, and after the 2026 FIFA World Cup. 

The hub, now live at AmericaTheBeautiful.com/Football, is a go-to resource for discovering things to do, must-try local cuisine, and an initial set of AI-powered sample road trip itineraries that connect all 11 US host cities to nearby destinations and experiences. 

Photo credit: FIFA. www.fifa.com.

The tournament coincides with America 250, and Brand USA is spotlighting 250 things to do across the US through a series of themed content. This edition turns the spotlight on the Beautiful Game, showcasing 50 things to do and see across the US host cities — and beyond — during the tournament. 

“The US offers unmatched experiences for football fans both on and off the pitch,” said Brand USA President and CEO Fred Dixon. “The 2026 FIFA World Cup presents an opportunity to combine the love of the sport with the ultimate US holiday. We invite fans to come early and explore the iconic destinations that make America unique in the world. The resources found on AmericaTheBeautiful.com will inspire adventure and give travellers the inspiration they need to have a trip of a lifetime.”

Each city and region offers its own blend of sports history and game-day experiences for every kind of fan, from skyline views and waterfront strolls to cultural centres and legendary sports venues. In addition, each team will also set up standalone base camps and training facilities, with final locations to be announced closer to the start of the tournament.

Brand USA launches America the Beautiful Game, a new trip planning hub designed to guide football fans as they explore the US pre and post the 2026 FIFA World Cup. 

Visit World Football This Summer – Visit The USA for the complete guide.

(Source: Brand USA)

Royal Cliff wins Trusted Thailand Certification

By
Your Stories
-

PATTAYA, 9 December 2025: The Royal Cliff Hotels Group has been awarded the Trusted Thailand certification in the hotel and accommodation category by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) for all four of its properties: Royal Cliff Beach Hotel, Royal Cliff Beach Terrace, Royal Cliff Grand Hotel and Royal Wing Suites and Spa. 

This prestigious recognition confirms the highest standards of safety and quality, giving international travellers, particularly those from China, complete confidence and peace of mind when choosing Royal Cliff for their stay.

Representatives of Royal Cliff Hotels proudly receive Trusted Thailand certification from the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT)

The Trusted Thailand certification is granted to establishments that meet rigorous safety criteria across multiple areas. These include in-hotel security systems, secure payment procedures, emergency preparedness, accessibility to the hotel, and a multilingual team capable of responding effectively in urgent situations. Such measures are essential for ensuring the safety and comfort of all guests.

Royal Cliff Hotels Group has a highly trained and experienced team specialising in security, first aid, life-saving procedures, emergency evacuation drills, and counter-terrorism preparedness in collaboration with government agencies. The hotels are equipped with world-class safety technology, including 24-hour CCTV coverage, regular patrols by security personnel, and comprehensive emergency response plans for land, sea, and air situations. Notably, the hotel has in-house nurses on duty 24 hours a day. 

In Photo: Royal Cliff staff undergo rigorous training with professional teams from government agencies in first aid, life-saving procedures, emergency evacuation drills, and counter-terrorism preparedness.

Guests can enjoy their stay at Royal Cliff with complete peace of mind, confident that every aspect of their experience is safe, secure, and professionally managed. The team is always ready to assist and provide support, ensuring that every visit is not only relaxing but truly memorable.

Perched atop a 64-acre private estate with breathtaking views of the Gulf of Thailand, the Royal Cliff Hotels Group boasts four award-winning hotels. It offers promotions and packages to ensure an exceptional holiday when booking directly with Royal Cliff, with guaranteed best prices.

To secure the premium experience, visit www.royalcliff.com, call reservations at (+66) 38 250 421 ext. 2732, or email [email protected].

For more information on the Royal Cliff Hotels Group, visit www.royalcliff.com, www.facebook.com/royalcliff, www.instagram.com/royalcliff and WeChat ID: royalcliffhotels.

Royal Cliff staff undergo rigorous training with professional teams from government agencies in first aid, life-saving procedures, emergency evacuation drills, and counter-terrorism preparedness.

(Source: Your Stories — Royal Cliff Hotels Group)

Discover Centara Karon Villas Phuket

By
Your Stories
-

BANGKOK, 9 December 2025: Centara Hotels & Resorts introduces Centara Karon Villas Phuket, an exclusive villa-only extension located next to Centara Karon Resort Phuket, just a few minutes away from the golden sands of Karon Beach. 

This intimate retreat features 50 modern villas, each designed for those who value space and privacy. Guests can choose from one-, two-, and three-bedroom configurations, with many villas boasting private plunge pools, spacious balconies, and separate living areas, creating the perfect setting for romantic escapes, family holidays, or group retreats.

Privacy is at the heart of the experience, complemented by exceptional facilities including a 3,000 sqm pool area with four swimming pools, SPA Cenvaree for holistic treatments, and a fully equipped fitness centre. Families will appreciate the Chang Dee Kids’ Club and E-Zone, while couples can unwind at Pink Social, a chic coffee lounge that transforms into an evening bar. Dining options range from Bistro Grill & Bar’s Thai and international cuisine to poolside bites at Tropix, Koh Kool, and Splash Deck.

Centara Hotels & Resorts VP of Operations and General Manager of Centara Karon Villas Phuket, David Martens, shared: “Centara Karon Villas Phuket is more than a place to stay — it’s a sanctuary where guests can immerse themselves in privacy, comfort, and the beauty of Phuket. We are thrilled to expand our portfolio with this new villa concept in a destination where Centara has deep roots and is well known. This marks an exciting step in bringing a fresh product line to the Phuket market, offering guests a new way to experience the island.”

To celebrate its opening, check out the Place to Be offer with up to 25% savings, daily breakfast, and exclusive perks for CentaraThe1 members.

Book at centarahotelsresorts.com/centara-place-to-be.

(Source: Your Stories — Centara Hotels & Resorts)

Traveller aspirations shift to authenticity

By
Andrew Wood
-
I’m

BANGKOK, 8 December 2025: Tourism has entered an age of restless reinvention, and across the global industry a consistent message is emerging: Travellers are seeking experiences that feel authentic, human, and rooted, rather than packaged or predictable.

The voices championing this narrative include the UN Tourism (UNWTO), the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), and international networks such as Skål International. 

Monks in Asia receiving alms.

Thailand-based Italian tourism thinker Roberto Causin expresses this shift with sharp clarity. He argues that the traditional formula of flights, hotels, and buffet breakfasts no longer satisfies modern expectations. 

Today’s travellers are looking for journeys that shake off the routine, open the senses, and connect them with real people and real places.

More than a decade ago, the Mekong Tourism Forum (MTF) was already championing this movement, pioneering programmes that placed local communities at the heart of tourism’s value chain. 

Farm-to-table dining, meet-the-maker experiences, artisan engagement, and village immersion all grew from these early innovations. They helped lay the foundation for what is now widely known as regenerative tourism, an approach where tourism strengthens destinations instead of merely using them.

Tourists helping to make local village (OTOP) products. A very hands-on experience.

Thailand’s long-running OTOP (One Tambon One Product) programme is a strong example. By empowering villages to produce unique cultural goods, from textiles and pottery to herbal remedies and snacks, OTOP transforms heritage into income and dignity. It remains a benchmark of booming community-based tourism in Asia.

Proximity tourism

One of Asia’s most compelling attributes is the global rise of proximity tourism. Travellers are beginning to realise they do not need to fly 10,000 kilometres to feel amazed. They are rediscovering the beauty of the nearby, driven by environmental awareness, value-for-money thinking, and a growing interest in roots tourism as people explore ancestral places and their personal identity.

Moving beyond Instagram moments

The world may still chase the perfect sunset shot, but travellers increasingly want substance behind the image. They want reassurance that the oceans will remain blue, that cultural heritage is respected, and that communities genuinely benefit from tourism rather than being overrun by it. In short, they want authenticity with integrity.

AI Is Impressive — But it’s not hospitality

Technology now shapes every stage of the travel journey. Yet, as Causin notes, AI without people becomes merely a GPS without a journey.

“Without genuine smiles and sincere hospitality, AI is only a tool. It cannot deliver the experience itself. Travel remains fundamentally a human-to-human exchange.”

Destinations must think in synergy

Modern travellers are seeking destinations that feel coherent, meaningful, and whole. That requires synergy, blending cuisine, culture, community products, landscape, and hospitality into experiences that tell a genuine story, not just a slogan.

Village pottery — additional income opportunities. 

Tourism is ultimately a living ecosystem of people, landscapes, flavours, stories, and small miracles. And today’s voyagers want to be guided to places where locals live quietly, beyond the billboard and beyond the algorithm.

About the author
Andrew J Wood is a British-born travel writer, former hotelier, and long-time Thailand resident. A past President of Skål International Asia and Skål International Thailand, he writes extensively on tourism trends, sustainability, and community-based travel across the Asia-Pacific region.

123...671Page 2 of 671

Stay ahead with the
latest travel news
on Southeast Asia.

Subscribe now


Contact Us
TTR Weekly (TTRW) is published in Bangkok, Thailand, registered since 1978.
/ month
placeholder text
/ month
placeholder text
Press releases, announcements, events for calendar should be sent to: [email protected]
/ month
placeholder text

Copyright © 2023 TTR Weekly, all rights reserved.