SINGAPORE, 3 February 2025: Viking Holdings, a river, ocean and expedition cruise line, announced last week the appointment of Leah Talactac as company President, effective immediately.
Talactac will continue to serve as Viking’s Chief Financial Officer while assuming her new responsibilities as President. She will continue to report directly to Torstein Hagen, who remains Chairman and CEO, and to the Board of Directors.
Photo credit: Viking. Leah Talactac named President.
Talactac joined Viking in 2006. She moved up the management ranks to serve as a member of the executive team that steered Viking’s successful IPO in 2024, which was the largest of the year on the NYSE.
She will lead the company’s executive committee, a team of executives with complementary skills who have worked together for over 15 years, driving Viking’s outstanding performance before and after the IPO.
“On behalf of the entire Viking family, I would like to congratulate Leah on her appointment as President,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman and CEO of Viking. “Since joining Viking in 2006, Leah has been instrumental in our success. With her long tenure and impressive financial acumen, she is well-positioned to help lead Viking in our next chapter.”
Viking also announced that it has ordered eight river ships for delivery in 2027 and 2028. This is in addition to the 16 river ships already committed to be delivered by 2026 and the nine additional ocean ships for delivery by 2030. With these orders, Viking will have 107 river ships in 2028 and 21 ocean and expedition ships in 2030.
Viking was founded in 1997 and provides destination-focused journeys on rivers, oceans, and lakes worldwide.
SINGAPORE, 3 February 2025: Total full-year passenger traffic in 2024 (measured in revenue passenger kilometres or RPKs) rose 10.4% compared to 2023, IATA reports in its latest data for the full-year 2024 and December.
IATA said RPKs during 2024 improved 3.8% above pre-pandemic (2019) levels. Total capacity, measured in available seat kilometres (ASK), was up 8.7% in 2024. The overall load factor reached 83.5%, a record for full-year traffic.
International full-year traffic in 2024 increased 13.6% compared to 2023, and capacity rose 12.8%. Domestic full-year traffic for 2024 rose 5.7% compared to the prior year, while capacity expanded by 2.5%.
December 2024 performance
December 2024 delivered a strong finish to the year, with overall demand rising 8.6% year-on-year, and capacity grew by 5.6%. International demand rose by 10.6% and domestic demand by 5.5%. The December load factor reached 84%, a record for the month.
“2024 made it clear that people want to travel. With 10.4% demand growth, travel reached record numbers domestically and internationally.
“Airlines met that strong demand with record efficiency. On average, 83.5% of all available seats were filled—a new record high, partially attributable to the supply chain constraints that limited capacity growth. Aviation growth reverberates across societies and economies through jobs, market development, trade, innovation, exploration, and much more,” said IATA’s Director General Willie Walsh.
“Looking to 2025, there is every indication that travel demand will continue to grow, albeit at a moderated pace of 8.0%, which is more aligned with historical averages. The desire to partake in the freedom that flying makes possible brings some challenges into sharp focus. First, the tragic accident in Washington (last week) reminds us that safety needs our continuous efforts. Our thoughts are with all those affected. We will never cease our work to make aviation even safer.
Second is the airlines’ commitment to achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050. While airlines invested record amounts in Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) purchases in 2024, less than 0.5% of fuel needs were met with SAF. SAF is in short supply, and costs must be reduced. Governments could fortify their national energy security and unblock this problem by prioritising renewable fuel production from which SAF is derived. In addition to securing energy supplies and increasing the SAF supply, diverting a fraction of the subsidies given for fossil fuel extraction to support renewable energy capacity would also boost prosperity through economic expansion and job creation,” said Walsh.
International Passenger Markets
In 2024, full-year international traffic surpassed the previous high of 0.5% in 2019, with growth in all regions. Capacity was 0.9% lower than in 2019. The load factor improved by 0.5 percentage points, finishing at 83.2%, a record high.
In December, international demand grew by 10.6%, capacity increased by 7.7%, and the load factor improved by 2.2 percentage points to 83.9% (compared to December 2023).
Asia-Pacific airlines posted a 26.0% rise in full-year international traffic in 2024 compared to 2023, maintaining the strongest year-over-year rate among the regions. Capacity rose 24.7%, and the load factor climbed by 0.8 percentage points to 83.8%. Despite this strong growth, opportunities for further growth remain high, as international RPKs remain 8.7% below 2019 levels. In December 2024, traffic rose 17.1% compared to December 2023.
European carriers’ full-year traffic climbed 9.7% versus 2023. Capacity increased 9.2%, and load factor rose 0.4 percentage points to 84.1%. Demand climbed 8.6% for December compared to the same month in 2023.
Middle Eastern airlines saw a 9.4% traffic rise in 2024 compared to 2023. Capacity increased by 8.4%, and load factor climbed from 0.7 percentage points to 80.8%. December demand climbed 7.7% compared to the same month in 2023.
North American carriers reporteda 6.8% annual traffic rise in 2024 compared to 2023. Capacity increased 7.4%, and load factor fell -0.5 percentage points to 84.2%. December 2024, traffic rose 5.1% compared to the year-ago period.
Latin American airlines posted a 14.4% traffic rise in 2024 over 2023. Annual capacity climbed 14.3%, and load factor increased 0.1 percentage points to 84.8%, the region’s highest. December demand climbed 11.3% compared to December 2023.
African airlines’ annual traffic rose 13.2% in 2024 compared to the previous year. Full-year 2024 capacity was up 9.5%, and load factor climbed 2.5 percentage points to 74.5%, the lowest among regions but a record high for Africa. In December 2024, traffic for African airlines rose 12.4% over December 2023.
MUMBAI, India, 3 February 2025: Thomas Cook (India) Limited has confirmed a two-year partnership with the Moscow Project Office for Tourism & Hospitality Development.
The Memorandum of Understanding was signed by Thomas Cook (India) Limited, President & Country Head, Holidays, MICE, Visa — Rajeev Kale and the First Deputy Head of the Office of the Mayor and Government of Moscow, Chairman of the Moscow City Tourism Committee, Evgeny Kozlov.
Photo credit: Thomas Cook India.
The MoU will prioritise knowledge exchange, best practices and curating innovative products designed specifically for Indian travellers embarking on a Moscow tour while fostering long-term growth in tourism and business MICE segments between India and the Russian capital.
This strategic partnership will capitalise on Thomas Cook and SOTC Travel’s expertise in curating outbound travel itineraries for Indian travellers and showcase Moscow’s diverse appeal as a vibrant destination for India’s leisure, business travel MICE and b-leisure sectors.
Kale commented on the agreement: “Moscow represents a delightful diversity of architecture, art, culture, gastronomy, and vibrant nightlife…hidden gems waiting to be explored. And so, on behalf of the Thomas Cook India Group, I am delighted to announce our strategic, long-term, and multi-pronged partnership with the Moscow Project Office for Tourism & Hospitality Development, which extends across our range of travel segments.
“With a vibrant heritage of over 143 years in India, this groundbreaking MOU reiterates our leadership position in the Indian market while showcasing our spirit of innovation and enterprise.”
Kozlov added: “Thomas Cook India is a trendsetter in the Indian tourism industry. I am delighted to be partnering with them in this promising collaboration.
“Following the signing of the MoU at a recent trade show, we have already agreed to organise a special presentation of Moscow as a tourist destination for Thomas Cook India and its clients, focusing on the MICE segment.
“Thomas Cook India Group has expressed interest in bringing its clients to Moscow this spring as part of a familiarisation trip.”
DUBAI, UAE, 3 February 2025: Bird Travels confirmed last week the appointment of Bird Aero Services FZCO based in Dubai, as the General Sales Agent of VietJet Thailand in the United Arab Emirates.
Bird Aero Services FZCO is the second Middle Eastern arm of Bird Group, complementing Bird Travels Private Limited, India’s largest airline management company. Since July 2024, it has served as VietJet’s Passenger Sales Agent in the UAE market. Bird Aero Services FZCO will now represent VietJet Thailand as its General Sales Agent and support the airline in establishing its footprint in the UAE market for both passenger and cargo services.
Photo credit: Vietjet Thailand.
Established in 2014, Vietjet Thailand operates 11 Thailand domestic routes, including flights from Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi) to Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phuket, Krabi, Udon Thani, Hat Yai, Khon Kaen, Ubon Ratchathani, and Surat Thani. It also operates cross-country flights from Phuket to Chiang Ma and Chiang Raii. Its international flights connect Thailand with Vietnam, China, Singapore, Cambodia, Japan and Taipei.
About Bird Travels Bird Travels Private Limited, the flagship company of Bird Group, is India’s largest airline representation company, providing airline management, distribution, sales, and marketing services. It exclusively represents more than 26 international airlines leisure and lifestyle brands in India.
Founded in 1971 in India, Bird Group has a footprint across the Indian Sub-Continent, Europe and the Middle East. Its core business includes covers information technology, travel & aviation services, hospitality, automotive, retail and education.
In the UAE, Bird Group successfully expanded its footprint since 2009 by forming Bird Technologies, Dubai UAE, which specialises in technology solutions customised for the travel and aviation industry.
SINGAPORE, 3 February 2025: Resorts World Cruises’ newest ship, the 1,800-passenger Star Scorpio, is undergoing a USD50 million renovation and upgrade in Singapore before it enters services sailing Southeast Asian cruises starting 26 March 2025.
Star Scorpio will homeport in Singapore for a series of voyages until 21 July 2025. It will sail to popular destinations, such as Jakarta and Medan in Indonesia, Melaka and Pulau Redang in Malaysia, Bangkok and Ko Samui in Thailand and Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam.
Photo credit: Resorts World Cruises. Digital image of Star Scorpio.
Star Scorpio previously sailed under the P&O flag as the Pacific Explorer and is now the third Resorts World Cruises fleet ship.
“We are pleased to introduce Star Scorpio as the third cruise ship for our fleet and to kick start her maiden deployment in Singapore, offering Indonesians, Thais, Malaysians and Vietnamese round-trip cruises from their ports during their peak holiday periods without the need to fly to another country”, said Resorts World Cruises President Michael Goh.
Bookings for Star Scorpio’s cruise itineraries opened in January 2025.
With departures from Jakarta, Bangkok, Melaka and Ho Chi Minh City all sailing into Singapore, Star Scorpio will berth at the Singapore Cruise Center (SCC), which is connected to the HarborFront MRT and VivoCity Mall. As such, passengers can easily commute and explore the city using Singapore’s mass transit system.
However, Cruise news specialists are suggesting there could be yet another name change for the ship as reliable industry sources posted on Facebook saying it would be renamed Star Voyager when it completes the USD50 million refit. Resorts World Cruises has yet to confirm the renaming, but it is expected to be celebrated ahead of the maiden sailings on 26 March to Melaka in Malaysia and Jakarta, Indonesia.
SINGAPORE, 31 January 2025: Emirates has launched a new offer for travellers planning to visit Dubai, including those from Singapore. Emirates flies four daily flights from Singapore to Dubai.
Until 9 February, travellers who purchase an Emirates return ticket in First Class or Business Class to Dubai can enjoy a complimentary stay at five-star hotel JW Marriott Marquis. Customers travelling in Premium Economy Class or Economy Class can enjoy a complimentary one-night stay at the five-star hotel Crowne Plaza Dubai Deira.
Travellers can enjoy unforgettable moments and diverse experiences in Dubai with its rich heritage landmarks, sun-kissed beaches, iconic sights of Downtown Dubai, and thrilling desert adventures.
Some of the key activities to experience in Dubai :
Desert Adventures: Just 40 minutes from downtown Dubai, The Fort – Lisaili is an introduction to the wonder of the desert in a family-friendly, Bedouin-inspired environment. Visitors can experience the stunning desert views via a camel ride, immerse themselves in rich traditions such as henna painting, enjoy a delicious BBQ buffet dinner under a skylit sky and more.
Thrill-Seekers Paradise: Adventure lovers can embark on a thrilling desert safari and discover the magic of Dubai’s golden dunes. Alternatively, step into nature-themed fun at Aventura Parks, Dubai’s largest zip line park, and the most popular outdoor high ropes course at Mushrif Park in the Mirdif neighbourhood. Situated amid a forest of Ghaf trees, thrill-seekers can choose from over 80 exciting challenges available for different ages and difficulty levels.
BANGKOK, 31 January 30, 2025: BWH Hotels, a leading global hospitality network comprising WorldHotels, Best Western Hotels & Resorts, and SureStay Hotels, announces the opening of Best Western Hotel Rawalpindi Central. This marks its debut in one of Pakistan’s most prestigious areas, the twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad.
Conveniently located close to the Soan River and only 38 km from Islamabad International Airport, this contemporary property will become one of the first internationally branded hotels in Rawalpindi, a principal city of more than 2.4 million people in Pakistan’s Punjab province.
Retail malls, businesses, and educational centres surround the hotel. The UNESCO World Heritage-listed ancient city of Taxila and the government offices of Islamabad, Pakistan’s capital, are just a short drive away.
Best Western Hotel Rawalpindi Central provides exceptional accommodations and facilities for business and leisure travellers. The 100 stylish rooms are spacious and fully equipped with modern amenities, including complimentary Wi-Fi and cable TV channels. Guests can enjoy daily breakfast and all-day local and international cuisine at the stylish onsite restaurant.
The hotel is set to become a popular venue for corporate meetings and special events, including weddings. Its function spaces can host up to 200 people and are supported by the latest audiovisual technology, catering, and other professional services.
“Rawalpindi is a captivating travel destination that blends historical, cultural, and natural attractions. We want to provide travellers in one of Pakistan’s key destinations with outstanding properties to meet their needs for business, leisure, and events. We look forward to welcoming our visitors to this hotel, including our esteemed local guests, a new generation of global explorers, and Best Western Rewards® members who may be discovering the wonders of Pakistan for the first time,” said BWH Hotels Vice President – APAC Olivier Berrivin.
Best Western Hotel Rawalpindi Central is BWH Hotels’ third property in Pakistan, following its existing Best Western Premier branded hotels in Lahore and Islamabad. With several more properties scheduled to open in the coming months, BWH Hotels is set to become one of the leading international hotel operators in this key South Asian nation.
BANGKOK, 31 January 2025: Thailand’s travel industry has long been a beacon of Southeast Asia’s tourism sector, drawing millions of visitors annually with its golden temples, turquoise waters, and boisterous street markets.
However, the travel industry’s path has been anything but smooth. Despite the hurdles, it has weathered the challenges associated with overtourism — the highs of record-breaking visitor numbers to the lows of politically fuelled airport lockouts and Covid pandemic-induced closures.
Photo credit: Andrew Wood. Digital nomads working from a café in Chiang Mai.
As the country looks to the future, innovation, sustainability, and global economic trends will shape its trajectory.
Thailand’s travel industry is a global standout, offering something for everyone. Its diverse appeal combines bustling cities, rich cultural heritage, and stunning natural landscapes, making it a top choice for travellers. The country’s affordability and world-class hospitality further cement its reputation. At the same time, its robust infrastructure — featuring international airports, efficient transport, and a wide range of accommodations—ensures a seamless experience for visitors.
Overtourism has taken a toll on popular destinations like Phuket, leading to environmental damage. Seasonal dependency leaves the economy vulnerable during off-peak periods, while issues like plastic pollution and coral reef degradation threaten Thailand’s natural allure. Political instability, chronic traffic, and economic inequality also cast shadows over the sector’s long-term growth.
10 factors shaping Thailand’s tourism future
1. Sustainable tourism: Initiatives like the “7 Greens” campaign and plastic-free islands are helping Thailand rebrand as an eco-friendly destination.
2. Digital nomadism: The rise of remote work has turned cities like Chiang Mai and Bangkok into hubs for digital nomads, supported by the Thailand Digital Nomad Visa.
3. Health and wellness: Post-pandemic, travellers prioritise wellness, boosting demand for spa retreats, yoga centres, and meditation resorts.
4. Cultural immersion: Authentic experiences like homestays and traditional craft workshops are becoming increasingly popular.
5. Infrastructure development: Investments in high-speed rail and airport expansions are improving connectivity across the country.
6. Geopolitical stability: A stable political climate is crucial for maintaining traveller confidence and attracting foreign investment.
8. Technology integration: AI-driven travel planning, contactless payments, and virtual reality tours enhance the visitor experience.
9. Regional competition: Neighbouring countries like Vietnam and Indonesia are emerging as strong competitors, pushing Thailand to innovate.
10. Global economic trends: Fluctuations in currency exchange rates, inflation, and global recessions can significantly impact travel demand.
Climate change is challenging, as regional competition from countries like Vietnam and global economic trends continue to shape the industry’s trajectory. Thailand’s ability to innovate and adapt will be key to maintaining its position as a leading travel destination in the years to come.
The role of finance and stock markets
Thailand’s travel industry is deeply intertwined with its financial markets. Tourism-related stocks, such as hotel chains, airlines, and retail companies, often reflect the sector’s health. For instance, the pandemic-induced travel slump saw sharp declines in shares of companies like Bangkok Airways and Minor International. However, the industry’s recovery has led to a rebound in these stocks, attracting domestic and foreign investors.
The Thai baht’s strength also plays a critical role. A weaker baht makes Thailand more affordable for international tourists, boosting arrivals, while a stronger currency can deter budget travellers. Additionally, government stimulus packages and public-private partnerships have been instrumental in revitalising the sector, with funds allocated to infrastructure projects and marketing campaigns.
Looking ahead
As Thailand’s travel industry enters a new era, it must balance growth with sustainability and inclusivity. The country can solidify its position as a global tourism leader by addressing its weaknesses and capitalising on emerging trends. However, external factors like global economic conditions and climate change require proactive strategies to ensure long-term success.
For travellers, Thailand remains a land of endless possibilities. Ancient traditions meet modern innovation, and every visit leaves a lasting impression.
BRISBANE, Australia, 31 January 2025: Australians have become comfortable with holidaying at home, with a new survey showing 60% of respondents who holidayed in the past year did so domestically.
Holidays within Australia became the norm during the Covid pandemic due to international border closures, but 2024 data by Budget Direct Travel Insurance shows that the trend has stuck.
Capitalising on nearby travel options has meant 51% of respondents holidayed for one to two weeks, with 26% making the most of a long or standard weekend to get away.
“Domestic holidays remain an easy and comfortable holiday option for Australians; we can benefit from the incredibly diverse range of destinations on offer to explore from sandy beaches to ski fields to rain forests,” a Budget Direct spokesperson said.
Age makes little difference regarding short-term holidays, with Australians aged 18-75 showing similar frequency of local breaks. The age group taking the most weekend breaks was the 38–47-year-old group, with 30% taking weekend holidays.
The 68–75-year-old group was the lowest, with 20% taking weekend breaks in the past 12 months.
For holidays of one to two weeks, the age group varied little, with 53% of 18–27-year-olds and the 48-57-year-old groups holidaying for one to two weeks in the past 12 months.
Regarding which state took the most weekend and one-to-two-week holidays, New South Wales took the most weekend holidays (30% of respondents), and South Australia took the most one-to-two-week holidays (58%).
As for who we holiday with, either couples or family and relatives were mostly out and about together holidaying in the past 12 months, representing 51% and 44% of travellers.
Friends represented 17% of travelling companions, with 14% of holidayers travelling alone and 1% joining a tour.
Australians are still savvy holiday planners, with 70% saving for their holiday and also staying below or within their budget.
SINGAPORE, 31 January 2025: Digital travel platform Agoda identifies five global events in 2025 that will captivate travellers worldwide.
These occasions provide opportunities to explore diverse cultures, witness natural wonders, and participate in significant gatherings, inviting travellers to broaden their horizons and create meaningful connections.
2025 promises various sports, cultural, and celestial experiences for those eager to explore. Here are five events special to 2025.
2025 Jubilee Year – Rome, Italy (Throughout 2025)
Celebrate the 2025 Jubilee in Rome, a special holy year observed once every 25 years. This event marks a time for reflection and pilgrimage, drawing millions to the Eternal City. A key highlight is the World Meeting of Families in June 2025, which will unite families worldwide for faith-focused events. Throughout the year, various special jubilees and celebrations offer unique opportunities for the more spiritual traveller.
Witness the awe-inspiring Northern Lights in Tromsø, Norway, a prime location for viewing this natural wonder. The aurora borealis is a yearly phenomenon, but 2025 is expected to be particularly remarkable due to the solar maximum, a period of increased solar activity, which enhances the likelihood of spectacular displays. This celestial event allows travellers to see the sky illuminated in vivid colours, providing a unique opportunity to connect with nature.
World Expo 2025 – Osaka, Japan (13 April – 13 October)
Osaka hosts the World Expo, a six-month global display of innovation and culture. Visitors can explore diverse pavilions, experience advanced technologies, as well as enjoy Osaka’s and the Kansai region’s unique cultural offerings.
Experience the maritime spectacle of SAIL Amsterdam, a unique event every five years. The city will host an impressive fleet of tall ships, naval vessels, and historical boats worldwide. Visitors can enjoy ship tours, parades, and cultural performances along the IJhaven, offering a rare glimpse into maritime history and the lively atmosphere of Amsterdam’s waterfront.
SEA Games – Bangkok, Thailand (9 – 20 December)
The Southeast Asian Games, commonly known as the SEA Games, is a biennial multi-sport event involving participants from the region.
(Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Timor-Leste and Vietnam).
In 2025, Bangkok will host athletes competing in various sports and showcasing exceptional talent and sportsmanship. This event offers a chance to experience the culture and camaraderie of Southeast Asia, with competitions held in multiple venues throughout the city.
