SINGAPORE, 2 October 2025: Dream Cruises unveils its 2026/2027 cruise season, featuring a refreshed lineup of itineraries aboard the Genting Dream to rediscover the beauty and diversity of Southeast Asia.
The new season builds on Dream Cruises’ signature short getaways with additions to the lineup: three-night cruises to Pulau Redang, four-night cruises to Samui Island and Pulau Redang and five-night cruises to Bangkok (via Laem Chabang) and Samui Island. The five-night
Photo credit: Dream Cruises
The Bali Cruise, first introduced for the November 2025 school holidays, will also return in December 2026.
All these new offerings will be available alongside the two-night weekend Cruise, the two-night Melaka Cruise, and the three-night Phuket Cruise.
In addition to expanded departures from Singapore, the season also marks the return of Kuala Lumpur (via Port Klang) and Melaka as departure ports – giving travellers greater flexibility and the option to begin their cruise from the location most convenient to them.
SINGAPORE, 2 October 2025: Fauchon L’Hotel Paris recently surveyed luxury travel advisors to determine what really matters to their clients when selecting a hotel.
One of the key findings confirmed by travel advisors suggests a hotel needs to offer “an authentic sense of place” versus a “cookie-cutter brand design.”
This is clearly a departure from when travellers preferred the consistency of knowing that no matter where in the world they travelled, they would find the same carpeting, bedding, décor, amenities, and overall experience.
Fauchon L’Hotel Paris’ survey indicated that respondents were seeking an authentic local experience, rather than the typical cookie-cutter brands.
The top two important factors when selecting a hotel were hotel location (97.5%) and staff and service (82.5%). When travellers report back about their trip, 6 in 10 respondents commented about the “warm and welcoming service they received”, while only 21.3% mentioned the “great location.”
The two factors which were the least commented on were “the views, welcome amenity, and staff” and “the value for their dollar.”
When selecting a hotel that offers a promotion or special offer, seven in 10 travel advisors said a “complimentary night” was most important to their clients, with an “added complimentary VIP amenity” coming in a close second.
Other deciding factors included an “enhanced commission” for the travel agent, a “percentage discount off the room rate,” and “added value in food and beverage.”
Also noteworthy in this age of social media is that travel advisors reported that only 30% of clients definitely requested a specific hotel after seeing it on social media. In comparison, 11.2% stated that an increasing number of clients were requesting hotels they had seen on social media.
And while loyalty programs once held considerable power in driving bookings, only 1.3% of respondents definitely request hotels with loyalty programmes, less than 60% sometimes request hotels with loyalty programmes, and 35% do not request hotels with loyalty programmes.
SINGAPORE, 2 October 2025: The August year-on-year global passenger demand growth of 4.6% confirms that the 2025 peak northern summer travel season reached a new record high, according to the International Air Transport Association’s data released for August 2025.
Total demand, measured in revenue passenger kilometres (RPK), was up 4.6% compared to August 2024. Total capacity, measured in available seat kilometres (ASK), was up 4.5% year-on-year. The August load factor was 86% (+0.1 ppt compared to August 2024), a record high for the month.
International demand rose 6.6% compared to August 2024. Capacity increased by 6.5% year-over-year, and the load factor was 85.8% (+0.1 percentage points compared to August 2024).
Domestic demand increased 1.5% compared to August 2024. Capacity was up 1.3% year-on-year. The load factor was 86.3% (+0.1 ppt compared to August 2024).
“August year-on-year demand growth of 4.6% confirms that the 2025 peak northern summer travel season reached a new record high. Moreover, planes were operating with more seats filled than ever, with a record load factor of 86%. Despite economic uncertainties and geopolitical tensions, the global growth trend shows no signs of abating, as October schedules are showing airlines planning 3.4% more capacity. Airlines are doing their best to meet travel demand by maximising efficiency, making it even more critical for the aerospace manufacturing sector to sort out its supply chain challenges,” said IATA’s Director General Willie Walsh.
Regional Breakdown – International Passenger Markets
International RPK growth reached 6.6% in August year-on-year, and load factor reached a historic high. International traffic was by far the dominant driver of growth, accounting for 87% of the net increase in global RPK in August.
Asia-Pacific airlines achieved a 9.8% year-on-year increase indemand. Capacity increased by 9.5% year-over-year, and the load factor was 85.1% (+0.2 percentage points compared to August 2024). Growth was driven by strong demand from China and Japan (+11.8% and +12% respectively).
European carriers had a 5.3% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity increased by 5.3% year-over-year, and the load factor remained flat (0.0 percentage points compared to August 2024).
North American carriers saw a 1.8% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity increased by 2.6% year-over-year, and the load factor was 87.5% (-0.6 percentage points compared to August 2024). This was the fourth consecutive month of YoY declines in international PLF for North America.
Middle Eastern carriers saw an 8.2% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity increased by 6.9% year-over-year, and the load factor was 83.9% (+1.0 percentage points compared to August 2024).
Latin American airlines saw a 9.0% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity climbed 9.3% year-on-year. The load factor was 84.7% (-0.2 ppt compared to August 2024).
African airlines saw a 7.1% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity was up 5.3% year-on-year. The load factor was 79.7% (+1.3 ppt compared to August 2024).
SINGAPORE, 2 October 2025: Star Princess, the second Sphere-Class ship in the Princess Cruises fleet, was officially delivered last week at a celebratory handover ceremony at the Fincantieri Shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy.
The Star Princess is the 17th ship in the cruise line’s lineup of vessels sailing worldwide.
Photo credit: Princess Cruises. Star Princess.
The Star Princess handover ceremony was attended by Gus Antorcha, President of Princess Cruises; Star Princess Captain Gennaro Arma; Pierroberto Folgiero, CEO and Managing Director of Fincantieri; Biagio Mazzotta, President and Chairman of Fincantieri, along with key Fincantieri executives and local government officials.
With her 1,600 crew now onboard, preparing to welcome the first guests, Star Princess will depart the shipyard and sail to Barcelona ahead of her inaugural voyage, an 11-day Western Mediterranean cruise departing 4 October.
The 177,800-ton, 4,300-guest Star Princess — sister to the award-winning Sun Princess — will feature 30 dining and bar venues, entertainment and activity offerings.
Star Princess features the Sanctuary Collection, an elevated private escape at sea, with access to an exclusive restaurant, the Sanctuary Club —a tranquil, adults-only pool deck — and thoughtfully curated amenities that set a new standard for luxury at sea.
With over 1,500 balcony staterooms, guests will enjoy panoramic views from the privacy of their own rooms. Standout venues include The Dome, a next-generation relaxation and entertainment space; The Arena, Princess’ most technologically advanced theater yet; The Piazza, the architectural centerpiece of the ship with its dramatic curves, floor-to-ceiling windows, and sweeping ocean vistas; and Spellbound by Magic Castle, the captivating speakeasy experience born from a collaboration with the famed Hollywood icon, The Magic Castle™.
On 4 October 2025, Star Princess will debut in the scenic Mediterranean, sailing round-trip from Barcelona before crossing the Atlantic to begin a season of Caribbean voyages from Ft. Lauderdale on 7 November 2025. Following her Caribbean season, she will sail through the Panama Canal heading west to begin her inaugural Alaska season.
SINGAPORE, 2 October 2025: British Airways will operate a daily service from Bahrain, increasing weekly flights to London from the current three to seven flights weekly and adding over 9,000 additional seats on the route, effective 27 October.
The flight expansion will provide customers with greater flexibility when planning business trips, family visits, or leisure getaways to the UK and beyond. British Airways currently flies from Bahrain to London on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, using a B787-9 with 216 seats.
Photo credit: BA. Big Ben, London.
In Saudi Arabia, the airline will operate 12 flights from Riyadh to London Heathrow per week this winter and 14 per week from summer 2026. Jeddah will also transition to five flights per week in summer 2026, up from the current four flights operating the route.
British Airways will also be operating a daily service between Abu Dhabi and London from winter 2025, offering customers more choice and convenience.
The expanded schedule supports growing demand across the region and has been strategically timed to ensure customers have seamless onward connections via London Heathrow to more than 200 destinations worldwide.
Tickets for the additional services are now available for purchase on the airline’s website.
BANGKOK, 2 October 2025: China braces for one of the largest holiday travel movements in history, during this year’s Super Golden Week, which combines National Day and the Mid-Autumn Festival that got underway on Wednesday and continues through 8 October.
Officials forecast 2.36 billion passenger trips across the country, averaging 295 million journeys each day. While the vast majority will be domestic, immigration authorities still expect around 2 million cross-border trips daily, many of which are bound for Hong Kong, Macau, and Southeast Asia.
Photo credits: AJW. Bangkok’s Chinatown.
For Thailand, which has long been a favourite destination for Chinese travellers, the potential is clear. Even capturing a small slice of this travel wave could bring significant rewards to the tourism and hospitality industries.
China on the move
Domestically, the surge reflects pent-up demand, family reunions, and cultural rediscovery. High-speed rail hubs, expressways, and airports are preparing for record volumes. Private vehicles are forecast to dominate traffic, with highways expected to see up to 70 million trips per day at peak.
Airlines forecast nearly 20 million passengers for the eight days. The movement of people and money will ripple across retail, dining, hotels, and cultural attractions, creating a festival atmosphere nationwide.
Top five domestic destinations
Chinese travellers often combine family obligations with cultural or scenic escapes during Golden Week. This year’s leading domestic draws include:
Beijing – Historic icons from the Forbidden City to the Great Wall.
Shanghai – Modern skyline, shopping boulevards, and nightlife.
Xi’an – The Terracotta Army and the ancient Silk Road connection.
Guilin and Yangshuo – Karst peaks, winding rivers, and rural tranquillity.
Zhangjiajie and Wulingyuan – Dramatic landscapes that inspired Avatar’s floating mountains.
These destinations reflect the dual pull of heritage and natural beauty that resonates with millions of holidaymakers.
Top five international destinations
China is a global tourism phenomenon.
For those heading abroad, short-haul destinations are the most popular, thanks to their convenience and value. The top international picks are:
Hong Kong – Shopping, dining, and cultural crossover.
Macau – Casinos, luxury hotels, and entertainment.
Thailand – Warm beaches, cultural attractions, and value for money.
Japan and South Korea – Popular for food, culture, and shopping.
Malaysia and Singapore – Visa-friendly, diverse, and accessible.
These favourites underline the strength of Asia’s intra-regional tourism links, with Thailand positioned as a prime beneficiary.
Thailand’s Golden Week opportunity
Thailand’s Ministry of Tourism and sports media outlets estimate that Chinese spending during the 2025 Golden Week could reach around THB9 billion, a figure consistent with previous holiday peaks. Last year’s Golden Week generated approximately THB5 billion from 183,000 visitors, highlighting the significance of this one week to national tourism revenue.
With Chinese travellers averaging THB6,600 in daily spending during multi-night stays, the economic impact extends beyond hotels and flights. Shopping malls, restaurants, entertainment venues, and wellness services all stand to gain. Phuket, Pattaya, Chiang Mai, and Bangkok’s retail hubs remain top draws, alongside new interest in cultural and wellness-driven tourism experiences.
Photo credit: AJW. Bangkok’s Chinatown braces for cash bonanza during mega holiday week.
For Thai businesses, the challenge is to ensure capacity, quality, security, safety and targeted promotions that capture attention before and during the holiday. Visa-free entry, seamless airport processing, and curated experiences will be key to securing higher-yield segments.
Chinese Confidence
Super Golden Week is not just about numbers; it symbolises the renewal of consumer confidence and mobility in Asia. For Thailand, it is a timely reminder that Chinese travellers remain the country’s most important inbound market. By aligning infrastructure, marketing, and experience, Thailand can transform this holiday rush into a sustained rebound.
About the author Andrew J Wood is a travel writer and former hotelier based in Bangkok. A past president of Skål International Asia, Skål International Thailand, and twice president of Skål International Bangkok, Andrew has lived in Thailand for over 34 years. Educated in the UK, he is a former General Manager of the Royal Cliff Beach Resort in Pattaya and the Chaophya Park Hotel Bangkok, and previously worked at the Tower Thistle Hotel in London. Today, he serves as International Hospitality Editor for Travel Daily News Asia and is a regular commentator on Thailand’s tourism industry, hospitality trends, and investment opportunities.
SINGAPORE, 1 October 2025: The Asian Federation of Exhibition and Convention Associations (AFECA) will host the 10th AFECA Asia MICE Youth Challenge on 6 November 2025 in Jakarta, Indonesia.
A record-breaking 22 teams from 10 countries and territories across Asia will converge to showcase their creativity, innovative thinking, and talent in the MICE industry.
AFECA is a prominent federation with over 140 members, comprising 34 MICE association members and 109 corporate members, as well as two affiliates from 17 countries, making it a prominent MICE association in Asia.
With access to other global MICE associations, AFECA serves as the gateway for Asia to connect with the rest of the world.
The participating teams will conceptualise, business-test, and create a launch event in one of the components of MICE, showcasing the distinctive features and facilities of their country or areas. They will also be judged on creating the most attractive, practical, and strategic business plan.
“We believe this challenge is more than just a competition — it’s a platform for young minds to shape the future of our industry,” said the Organising Committee chair, Sandeep Gurwara.
As Asia continues to emerge as a rising force in the global MICE industry, this challenge highlights the region’s growing influence and innovative spirit.
Organising Committee Advisor and AFECA Honorary President Dilys Yong added: “I am thrilled to be part of the 10th edition of the AFECA Asia. MICE Youth Challenge is a milestone for an initiative I had the privilege of launching in 2015. It is an honour to see the event grow and continue to inspire young talents in the MICE industry.”
The event will be hosted by ASPERAPI in Jakarta, Indonesia, supported by sponsors:
R.E. Rogers India Pvt Ltd; Association of Korean Exhibition Industry (AKEI); Shanghai New International Expo Centre (SNIEC); Conference and Destination Management (CDM); Impact Exhibition Management Co Ltd; Prime Marketing Services Promotion Ltd; Kaoshiung Global MICE Association (KGMA).
The competition will reward winners with prizes, trophies, certificates, and cash awards for the Champion, First Runner-Up, and Second Runner-Up.
Additional categories include Special Recognition Awards:
The Best Presenter Award; The Most Knowledgeable Award; The Best Sustainability Idea Award; The Best PowerPoint Presentation Award; The Best Theme Attire Award; The Most Popular Award.
BANGKOK, 1 October 2025: For leaders, time always seems to slip away. Meetings bleed into evenings, deadlines loom across time zones, and travel schedules can unravel even the best-laid plans.
In this environment, leadership is not just about strategy; it is about stamina. A CEO or general manager’s ability to think clearly, stay motivated, and inspire others hinges on their personal energy.
Stamina and leadership are intertwined.
Enter FSN: Food, Sleep, and Nutrition, a deceptively simple formula that promises to maximise human performance when the stakes are highest.
Much like frequent travellers who know that the right seat, meal, and rest can make or break a journey, FSN is about building habits that fuel not just survival but leadership excellence. It is a lifestyle compass that busy executives increasingly recognise as their secret edge.
Food: Fuel for Focus
Making wise choices – taking charge.
Food is leadership fuel. Build your plate with fresh salads, organic vegetables, lean protein, and nuts. Vitamins from fruit keep you sharp, while whole grains sustain energy without the crash. Skip the heavy carbs and sugary snacks; they kill focus. Eat clean, light, and fresh to think fast and lead strong. And yes, even if you run a global beer company, moderation matters. Enjoy a cold pint socially, but never let alcohol become a performance drain.
Sleep: The CEO’s Superpower
Sleep is the ultimate edge. Seven to eight hours restores clarity, judgment, and emotional balance. Blackout curtains, no screens before bed, and consistent routines turn rest into a weapon. Tired leaders make poor decisions, while rested leaders command trust, calmness, and creativity. Long-haul travellers especially benefit from controlled naps and strategic recovery days. Sleep well, lead better.
Nutrition: Precision Performance
Nutrition fine-tunes the system. Hydrate constantly; even slight dehydration can wreck your focus — power up with Omega-3s, leafy greens, and fresh organic fruits. Micronutrients fuel resilience, while supplements can fill gaps on the road. Limit stimulants like caffeine and alcohol, which may offer short-term boosts but erode long-term balance. Think of nutrition as your operating software. Without it, even the best leader crashes.
The FSN Payoff
Some might dismiss FSN as corporate jargon, a wellness fad dressed up for executives. Yet the truth is emerging. Leaders who adopt FSN are not only healthier but also more effective. They motivate teams more effectively, withstand stress longer, and approach challenges with greater clarity and calm. FSN does not just enhance personal performance; it sets the tone for organisations. Teams follow leaders who embody energy, resilience, and a focused approach.
Pilot your way to success.
If you still think this is all gobbledygook, listen to Jacob Aarup-Andersen, Group CEO of Carlsberg. “The best productivity hack I know? FSN. It is no secret that life as a CEO can be hectic. With our brands present in over 100 markets globally, I spend a lot of time in the air, and those hours are often the only uninterrupted time I have to focus.
“But the real foundation of my productivity? FSN: Fitness, Sleep, Nutrition. It is simple, but it works. When I stick to it, I show up with the energy and clarity to lead, make decisions, and stay sharp across time zones. Productivity is not just about tools or tactics; it starts with how you take care of yourself.”
About the author Andrew J. Wood is a Bangkok-based travel writer, hotelier, and tourism lecturer with over four decades of experience in Southeast Asia’s hospitality sector. A former hotel general manager, he is the Past President of Skål International Asia, Skål Thailand, and has served as President of Skål Bangkok twice. Andrew is widely recognised as a respected voice in tourism, hospitality, and investment circles across the Asia-Pacific region. Born in Yorkshire, England, he has lived in his adopted homeland, Thailand, since 1991, where he continues to write, teach, and inspire through his work in the travel and hospitality industry.
This prestigious accolade highlights the properties’ ongoing commitment to sustainability, environmentally responsible practices, and their significant contributions to advancing Thailand’s sustainable tourism sector.
Wuthisak Pichayagan (left), General Manager of Centara Grand at Central Plaza Ladprao Bangkok, and Jan Weisheit (right), General Manager of Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin, received the Thailand Tourism Sustainability Award at the 15th Thailand Tourism Awards, organised by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT).
“We are deeply honoured to receive this recognition, which reflects not only the dedication of our team but also our collective responsibility to create a sustainable future for tourism,” said Wuthisak Pichayagan, General Manager of Centara Grand at Central Plaza Ladprao Bangkok. “This award motivates us to continue developing innovative solutions that minimise our environmental footprint while delivering exceptional guest experiences.”
Echoing this sentiment, Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin, General Manager Jan Weisheit commented: “This recognition is a testament to the strong commitment we share with our guests, associates, and the local community to preserve and celebrate Hua Hin’s natural and cultural heritage. We are proud to represent a model of sustainable hospitality in such an iconic destination.”
A strong commitment to sustainability guides every aspect of Centara’s development and operations. The group is pursuing ambitious environmental targets, including a 40% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and energy usage, a 20% decrease in water consumption by 2029, and achieving net zero emissions by 2050.
The Thailand Tourism Sustainability Award reinforces Centara’s position as an industry leader committed to shaping a more responsible and sustainable future for Thailand’s hospitality and tourism sectors.
SINGAPORE, 1 October 2025: Japan’s Mount Yōtei in Hokkaido Prefecture is set to capture the attention of the global gaming community with a significant video game focusing on the region, scheduled for release on 2 October.
Digital travel platform Agoda highlights the natural landscapes of Hokkaido and encourages travellers to explore the breathtaking real-life inspirations behind the game’s decor.
It will be the second time an open-world samurai game is expected to bring global attention to a Japanese region, following the success of the Japanese island of Tsushima. Local tourism organisations capitalised on the video game’s popularity; the mayor of Tsushima thanked the game developers publicly, and fans of the game even rallied together to donate money after a typhoon hit Tsushima.
The backdrop of the new samurai-centred game will be Hokkaido. From the vibrant cityscapes of Sapporo to the serene beauty of Lake Toya, Agoda shares five must-visit destinations in Hokkaido that capture the essence of Japan’s northernmost prefecture:
Sapporo: The capital of Hokkaido is a harmonious blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy the lush greenery of Odori Park, the panoramic views from Mount Moiwa, and the seasonal charm of the Sapporo Snow Festival. Sapporo’s tasty food scene, featuring fresh seafood and local delicacies, adds to its allure.
Furano: Known for its rolling lavender fields and colourful flower farms, Furano is a haven for nature lovers. The picturesque landscapes change with the seasons, offering a kaleidoscope of colours in summer and a pristine snowy wonderland in winter. Furano’s tranquil atmosphere makes it an ideal escape for those seeking peace and inspiration.
Lake Toya: This caldera lake, surrounded by volcanic mountains, is a UNESCO Global Geopark and a testament to Hokkaido’s geological wonders. Visitors can enjoy hot spring resorts, scenic boat rides, and hiking trails that offer stunning views of the lake and its surrounding landscapes.
Hirafu: Nestled in the Niseko region, Hirafu is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Known for its world-class ski slopes in winter, the area also offers hiking, mountain biking, and hot springs during the warmer months. The majestic Mount Yōtei, often referred to as “Ezo Fuji,” serves as a stunning backdrop to this vibrant destination.
Shiretoko Peninsula: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Shiretoko Peninsula is a pristine wilderness that shows Hokkaido’s untamed beauty. From dramatic cliffs and waterfalls to diverse wildlife, this remote destination offers a glimpse into Japan’s natural heritage.
Agoda Country Director Japan Satomi Nakabayashi shared: “Whether in the picturesque autumn season or the snowy winter months, Hokkaido prefecture is a joy to explore. The landscapes are nothing short of captivating. Whether you’re a fan of the game or simply looking for an unforgettable adventure, Agoda makes it easy to explore these stunning destinations and experience the magic of nature firsthand.”
