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Centara and OR Launch budget hotel brand

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Your Stories
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BANGKOK, 6 April 2026: Centara Hotels & Resorts, Thailand’s leading hotel operator, announced a strategic joint venture with PTT Oil and Retail Business Public Company Limited (OR) to launch a new budget hotel brand, marking a significant milestone in the company’s continued growth and expansion into new market segments.

Through this partnership, Centara and OR will develop a network of budget hotels located adjacent to PTT Station service complexes, creating a convenient and accessible accommodation option for modern travellers.

Photo credit: Centara Hotels & Resorts.

The collaboration combines Centara’s hospitality expertise with OR’s extensive nationwide network of service stations and lifestyle retail spaces.

The first phase of the project will see the development of six budget hotels across Thailand, with openings planned between 2027 and 2028. The properties will be strategically located in Bangkok, Kanchanaburi, Ayutthaya, Phuket, Chon Buri and Songkhla, targeting travellers moving along major highways and regional transport routes.

Each property will feature approximately 69–80 rooms, with rates expected to start from THB 800–900 per night, while the Bangkok property is planned to offer around 120 rooms with rates of THB 1,200–1,300 per night. Designed to deliver clean, safe and comfortable accommodation at an accessible price point, the hotels will cater primarily to domestic travellers, road trippers and business travellers seeking convenient overnight stays.

The joint venture represents an investment of approximately THB700 million, with Centara holding a 51% stake and OR holding 49%. By leveraging OR’s ecosystem of more than 2,000 PTT Station locations nationwide, the project unlocks new opportunities to serve travellers at highly accessible locations that already offer fuel services and electric-vehicle charging, as well as food and beverage outlets, convenience retail, and rest areas.

The collaboration will also connect and leverage the loyalty programme integration between CentaraThe1, The 1, and OR’s Blue Plus programme. With a collective membership base of more than 40 million, Centara and OR can co-create enhanced benefits, superior experiences, and greater value for customers across both organisations in the future.

“This partnership represents an exciting new chapter for Centara as we expand into the budget hotel segment and continue to diversify our portfolio,” said  Centara Hotels & Resorts Chief Executive Officer Thirayuth Chirathivat. “By combining Centara’s hospitality expertise with OR’s nationwide network of high-potential locations, we are creating a new hospitality concept designed to serve modern travellers who value convenience, reliability and exceptional value. With service stations located along major transport routes, this concept will provide travellers with clean, safe, and comfortable accommodation exactly where they need it.”

He added that the concept is designed to meet the needs of travellers commuting by car, including sales professionals, business travellers, and families and friends on road trips seeking short overnight stays during inter-provincial journeys.

The move into the budget segment reflects Centara’s long-term growth strategy to broaden its portfolio across multiple market segments while capturing emerging opportunities within Thailand’s evolving travel landscape. As demand for convenient and affordable accommodation continues to grow, the new brand will complement Centara’s existing portfolio, which spans luxury resorts, upscale hotels, lifestyle properties, and family-focused destinations.

“This partnership marks an important milestone that reflects the combined strengths and expertise of Centara and OR in jointly developing a budget hotel project to respond to evolving travel behaviour in today’s landscape,” said PTT Oil and Retail Business Public Company Limited (OR) Chief Executive Officer Peekthong Thongyai.

“At OR, we see travel not simply as reaching a destination, but as a meaningful experience along the way. This collaboration, therefore, strengthens our OR ecosystem and enables us to better serve modern travellers with a more complete and integrated journey experience.

For more information about PTT Oil and Retail Business Public Company Limited (OR), visit https://www.pttor.com/en/home

For more information about Centara Hotels & Resorts, visit https://www.centarahotelsresorts.com/

About Centara
Centara Hotels & Resorts is Thailand’s leading hotel operator. Its 90 properties span all major Thai destinations plus the Maldives, Vietnam, Laos, Japan, Nepal, Oman, Qatar and the UAE. Centara’s portfolio comprises six brands – Centara Reserve, The Centara Collection, Centara Grand, Centara, Centara Life and COSI Hotels – ranging from luxury island retreats and upscale family resorts to affordable lifestyle concepts supported by innovative technology.

De Brito joins Pullman Ninh Binh

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Newsdesk
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HANOI, 6 April 2026: Pullman Hotels & Resorts has appointed David Stanley De Brito as General Manager of Pullman Ninh Binh, the first internationally branded hotel in Ninh Binh, Vietnam, opening on 1 May 2026.

De Brito brings more than 30 years of international hospitality experience to the role, with a strong track record in hotel openings, operational leadership, and commercial performance across Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. 

David Stanley De Brito.

Before joining Pullman Ninh Binh, he served as Area General Manager for Accor in Japan, where he oversaw operations across a portfolio of hotels, including Grand Mercure Ise Shima. 

The 283-key Pullman Ninh Binh is a new landmark in the heart of this up-and-coming Vietnamese destination. De Brito will be responsible for leading the overall operations and strategic direction of Pullman Ninh Binh, with a focus on establishing the hotel as a leading address for both business and leisure travellers in Northern Vietnam. 

(Source: Pullman Hotels & Resorts)

IHG opens voco in Nha Trang

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NHA TRANG, 6 April 2026: IHG Hotels & Resorts has opened voco Scenia Bay Nha Trang by IHG, marking the third property under the brand to open in Vietnam.

Located in Nha Trang’s newly developed northern coastal precinct, just 10 minutes from Tran Phu Street, the 31-floor voco Scenia Bay Nha Trang is a member of the premium collection of IHG Hotels & Resorts. 

Photo by voco Scenia Bay Nha Trang by IHG.

Set along the shoreline, the 250-room property offers access to the city’s key attractions while providing a more relaxed coastal setting, with all guestrooms featuring ocean views.

“We are thrilled to open voco Scenia Bay Nha Trang and bring a reliable but different stay experience to the lively coastal city. The hotel reflects the brand’s thoughtful, unstuffy and charming personality, with a focus on hosted service and sustainability. Our bayfront location offers guests the best of both worlds: the tranquillity of the coast and easy access to Nha Trang’s vibrant attractions.

We look forward to contributing to the city’s continued growth as one of Vietnam’s most dynamic coastal destinations,” shared voco Scenia Bay Nha Trang by IHG General Manager Justin Malcolm.

The hotel’s five outlets offer a taste of the “voco life”. Infini Bleu, the pool bar with sea views, sets the stage for relaxed sunset moments with sips by the skyline. 

The hotel’s speciality restaurant, ‘La Bonita’, brings Mediterranean dining with Italian and Spanish flavours, while ‘The Show’, an all-day-dining restaurant, delivers live cooking performances. Socialite, the hotel’s lobby lounge, transitions from a relaxed daytime café into an intimate evening bar, offering craft beverages and light bites.

(Source: IHG)

Travel Meet Asia 2026

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SINGAPORE, 6 April 2026: Travel Meet Asia, powered by ITB Asia and ASITA, takes place on 23 to 24 June 2026, inviting industry leaders, practitioners, and innovators to contribute to its conference programme alongside the exhibition hosted at Swissôtel Jakarta PIK Avenue, Jakarta, Indonesia.

The conference will feature two full days of in-depth discussions on Southeast Asia’s dynamic travel landscape. Curated to reflect the evolving demands of today’s travellers, the programme brings together thought leaders, industry experts, and key decision-makers to explore emerging trends, regional opportunities, and strategic developments across the Leisure, MICE, and Corporate sectors, all within a focused, business-driven environment.

Photo credit: ITB Singapore. Travel Meet Asia

Buyer registration is now open for decision makers with high procurement volume in Indonesia’s outbound travel. Buyers enjoy pre-scheduled meetings with international exhibitors, attend insightful conference sessions, and access exclusive buyers-only networking.

Other shows from ITB

ITB India

1 – 3 September 2026

Jio World Convention Centre, Mumbai, India

ITB India is an annual B2B travel trade show focusing on the Indian and South Asian travel market in MICE, corporate travel, leisure and travel technology.

ITB Asia

21 – 23 October 2026

Sands Expo & Convention Centre, Singapore

The annual three-day B2B trade show and convention will feature exhibiting companies from around the world, covering MICE, Leisure, and Corporate Travel.

MICE Show Asia

21 – 23 October 2026

Sands Expo & Convention Centre, Singapore

An unmissable event for the meeting industry in APAC, MICE Show Asia is where the incentive travel, meetings and events industries come together to connect and build the future of MICE.

Travel Tech Asia

21 – 23 October 2026

Sands Expo & Convention Centre, Singapore

Travel Tech Asia is where the latest technologies, emerging trends, leading travel brands, and innovative startups converge, creating new possibilities for travel.

Japan hikes international travel tax

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Newsdesk
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SINGAPORE, 6 April 2026: Japan will triple its international tourist tax from JPY1,000 (USD6.27) to JPY3,000 (USD18.80) on 1 July 2026, adding to the already escalating airfares to and from Japan due to the ongoing Middle East crisis

Japan first introduced its International Tourist Tax (sometimes called the “sayonara tax”) in January 2019 and has now confirmed it will triple the tax as part of a government initiative to combat overtourism and improve regional infrastructure. 

However, the threat of overtourism is fast diminishing due to a dramatic fall-off in tourist arrivals from China and the wider impact of the Gulf Crisis, which has seen airfares blow out by 15 to 20%.

The increase in the international travel tax applies to all passengers — both foreign visitors and Japanese citizens—departing the country by air or sea. 

Japanese citizens must pay the tax when flying abroad. Foreigners resident in Japan on a work or study visa still pay the tax when they leave for a vacation or a business trip.

PeriodTax AmountChange
Current until 30 June 2026¥1,000—
Starts 1 July 2026¥3,000¥2,000 increase

The tax will be automatically bundled into the price of the airline or cruise ticket.

There are exceptions: Children under the age of two and transit passengers who depart Japan within 24 hours of their arrival do not pay the levy.

Initially, in the original announcement on the tax increase, the  Japanese government said it would use the additional revenue (estimated at JPY130 billion during the 2026 fiscal year) to fund “overtourism” countermeasures. 

It identified improving crowd management in popular cities like Kyoto, enhancing multilingual support at attractions, and promoting travel to lesser-known rural regions.

Connecting Flights

If you fly from a regional Japanese airport ( such as Sendai) to an international hub (such as Narita) to catch a flight to New York, you only pay the tax once on the international sector leaving Japan.

Local accommodation taxes

While the International Tourist Tax applies only to leaving the country, travellers pay an accommodation tax when staying in  Japanese cities (Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and, as of 1 April 2026, Hokkaido).

A local city tax of JPY100 (USD0.63) to JPY500 (USD13.13) per night applies to everyone staying in a hotel, including domestic travellers. It is usually paid directly to the hotel at check-in or check-out.

(Source: Trip.com and VisaHQ)

MATTA and Base Malaysia present adventure travel

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Newsdesk
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KUALA LUMPUR, 6 April 2026: The Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) has formalised a strategic partnership with BASE Malaysia through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) at the MATTA Fair April 2026.

This collaboration marks a significant step towards positioning Malaysia as a leading destination for adventure tourism, combining MATTA’s extensive tourism network with BASE Malaysia’s expertise in extreme sports and BASE jumping activities.

Under this partnership, both parties will work together to organise and promote key tourism and adventure events scheduled for August and September 2026. These include the highly anticipated World Base Cup 2026, set to take place at Menara 118, and Bazaar MATTA, which will be held at Stadium Merdeka in conjunction with the event.

The MOU aims to promote safe, responsible, and sustainable adventure tourism in Malaysia, while enhancing visibility and engagement among both local and international travellers.

MATTA president Nigel Wong.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, MATTA President Nigel Wong noted that the collaboration reflects MATTA’s commitment to diversifying Malaysia’s tourism offerings and tapping into the growing global interest in adventure tourism. He added that by working with BASE Malaysia, MATTA aims to create impactful experiences that attract new segments of travellers while ensuring safety and sustainability remain at the forefront, including through initiatives such as the Bazaar MATTA led by the MATTA Kuala Lumpur Chapter.

BASE Malaysia President, Dann Lee Chee Seong, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, highlighting that the collaboration will bring world-class BASE jumping events to Malaysia. He added that it will not only showcase the country’s iconic locations but also strengthen Malaysia’s position as a leading hub for adventure tourism.

As part of the collaboration, both parties will also undertake joint promotional efforts, including marketing campaigns, social media engagement, and media outreach to maximise awareness and participation in the upcoming events.

The MOU, effective until 31 December 2026, reflects a shared vision to drive innovation and growth in Malaysia’s tourism industry, particularly within the adventure tourism segment. 

(Source: MATTA).

MATTA Fair draws record turnout

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Newsdesk
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KUALA LUMPUR, 6 April 2026: The Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) returned from 3 to 5 April 2026 at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC), Kuala Lumpur, breaking its own record once again to be declared Malaysia’s largest consumer travel fair.

Spanning 40,820 square metres across 10 halls, the 58th edition of the MATTA Fair made travel more accessible through a diverse showcase, featuring 2,051 booths from 332 participating organisations, marking a groundbreaking milestone for the association.

Macao, the fair’s International Favourite Destination, showcased its ancient temples, shrines, traditional Chinese beliefs and its historical origins as a fishing village.

Visitors browsed through the fair’s wide range of offerings, displayed by 210 tour and travel agencies presenting curated travel packages, alongside participation from six National Tourism Organisations (NTOs) and 11 State Tourism Organisations (STOs). The fair also featured 64 hotels and resorts, 11 theme parks, one participating airline, and 29 other travel-related service providers, reflecting the depth and vibrancy of the tourism industry.

 “We are proud to feature Johor as Malaysia’s Favourite Destination and Macao as our International Favourite Destination, both showcasing rich experiences that inspire travellers to explore with greater curiosity,” said MATTA President Nigel Wong. “Our collaboration with Malaysia Aviation Group, as the  Official Airline Partner and Premier Sponsor, enhanced the fair with greater connectivity and exciting travel possibilities, while RHB Bank, as the Official Bank Partner, added a layer of convenience and value to the overall travel planning experience.”

Macao: MATTA Fair’s International Favourite Destination.

As an advocate for sustainable travel through its MATTA Eco & Sustainable Tourism Initiative (MESTI), MATTA also featured its signature MESTI Pavilion at the fair, located in Level 1 (Domestic Hall) with 21 booths from nine participating organisations.

“Despite global uncertainties, Malaysia’s tourism industry remains resilient. Travellers continue to see Malaysia as a safe, well-connected, and diverse destination, with strong appeal across nature, culture, and community experiences. This resilience gives us confidence in achieving our visitor targets while promoting meaningful and sustainable travel experiences. MATTA Fair continues to serve as a trusted platform for travellers to plan their journeys with confidence and purpose,” said Wong.

(Source: MATTA)

Agoda presents favourite bar-hopping cities

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Newsdesk
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Singapore, 6 April 2026: Digital travel platform Agoda unveils a list of emerging Asian cities that are becoming hotspots for bar-hopping enthusiasts in 2026. These destinations offer unique nightlife experiences that are drawing attention from travellers seeking new adventures.

Photo credit: Agoda. Nighttime scene in the Dotonbori district of Osaka, Japan.

Chiang Mai, Thailand*

Chiang Mai is not just about temples and mountains; it’s also a burgeoning nightlife destination. The city offers a mix of traditional Thai bars and modern cocktail lounges, making it a perfect spot for those looking to explore a different side of Thailand. Visitors can enjoy a night out in the bustling Nimmanhaemin area, where creativity and culture blend seamlessly with the nightlife.

*Warning: Chiang Mai, Thailand, ranked as the most polluted major city globally, on 26 March 2026. Smog continues to plague the destination. 27 March, 2026: Chiang Mai among top 10 most polluted cities in the world. 

Osaka, Japan

Known for its culinary delights, Osaka is also gaining fame for its eclectic bar scene. From hidden speakeasies to bustling izakayas, the city offers a diverse range of drinking spots. Visitors can enjoy local sake and craft cocktails while soaking in the energetic vibe of this Japanese city. The Dotonbori district, with its neon lights and lively atmosphere, provides a unique backdrop for an unforgettable bar-hopping experience.

Da Nang, Vietnam

Da Nang is quickly becoming a favourite for nightlife seekers. The city’s bar scene is a blend of beachfront bars with stunning views and cosy pubs with live music. The dynamic atmosphere and affordable drinks make it an attractive destination for those looking to experience Vietnam’s nightlife. The Han River area, with its vibrant night markets and riverside bars, offers a picturesque setting for a night of exploration and enjoyment.

Nagoya, Japan

Nagoya offers a unique bar-hopping experience with its mix of traditional and contemporary bars. The city’s vibrant districts are hubs for nightlife, where visitors can enjoy local beers and cocktails in a lively setting. Nagoya’s blend of history and modernity provides a distinctive backdrop for a night out. The Sakae district, known for its entertainment options and bustling nightlife, is a must-visit for those seeking a diverse and exciting bar scene.

Jeju Island, South Korea

Jeju Island’s nightlife is as diverse as its natural beauty. The island boasts a variety of bars, from chic lounges to quirky themed bars. With a friendly local crowd and a wide selection of drinks, Jeju Island is an exciting destination for those looking to explore South Korea’s vibrant bar scene. The Seogwipo area, with its coastal charm and unique bar offerings, provides a refreshing escape for travellers seeking a blend of relaxation and excitement.

Agoda Regional Director, North Asia, Jay Lee, shared: “Across Asia, more and more cities are redefining nightlife on their own terms, and offering visitors the best of post-sunset adventures. Agoda is thrilled to spotlight these destinations, offering travellers a chance to explore new and exciting bar-hopping experiences across a range of locales in the region.”

(Source: Agoda)

Air Astana expands summer season flights

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Newsdesk
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SINGAPORE, 6 April 2026: Air Astana has launched its summer schedule, which runs through until 24 October 2026. During this period, flight frequencies to existing destinations have been increased, seasonal routes have resumed, and new destinations have been inaugurated.

The new Almaty to Shanghai service was launched on 29 March 2026 and initially operates three times a week on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays. 

Photo credit: Air Astana. Shanghai joined the airline’s network on 29 March.

A further new China service between Astana and Guangzhou will commence on 2 June 2026, with twice weekly flights on Tuesdays and Thursdays. New services between Astana and Larnaca (Cyprus)  will launch on 2 June 2026, and from Almaty to Larnaca from 4 June 2026. All services will be operated with Airbus A321LR aircraft.

Gradual increases in flights from Astana and Almaty to Beijing, Istanbul and Antalya (Turkey) are expected during the Summer Schedule period. Flights from Astana to Frankfurt will operate daily starting in May. Fights from Almaty to Urumqi (China), Tbilisi (Georgia) and Tashkent (Uzbekistan) are also expected to increase.

Seasonal flights are resuming from Almaty to Nha Trang and Da Nang (Vietnam), Batumi (Georgia), Podgorica (Montenegro) and Bodrum (Turkey), as well as from Astana to Nha Trang and Da Nang, Podgorica, Tbilisi, Bodrum and Tashkent and from Atyrau to Tbilisi. Seasonal flights from Almaty to Male (Maldives) have been extended until the end of May.

(Source: Astana)

MATTA Fair: Big savings on Sarawak stays

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Your Stories
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KUALA LUMPUR, 3 April 2026: Travellers planning their next holiday can enjoy up to 40% savings on curated Sarawak travel packages at the upcoming MATTA Fair Kuala Lumpur 2026, available exclusively at the Sarawak Pavilion, Booth 1R01.

The offers are part of the Sia Sitok Sarawak campaign, led by the Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) in collaboration with the Sarawak Tourism Federation (STF) to encourage travellers to book their Sarawak holidays directly during the fair.

At the Sarawak Pavilion, visitors will find 35 exhibitors, including 24 travel and tourism operators alongside 11 non-trade exhibitors showcasing Sarawak’s arts, culture and gastronomy, offering a vibrant snapshot of the destination beyond travel packages alone.

Visitors can explore more than 80 bundled travel packages offered by 17 licensed Sarawak tour operators, each designed as a minimum three-day two-night (3D2N) holiday experience.

These packages combine accommodation with curated tours, transfers and guided experiences, allowing travellers to secure complete Sarawak journeys at compelling value during the fair.

The fair-exclusive promotion offers up to 40% off. It is available only to visitors who confirm their bookings with participating Sarawak agents at the pavilion during the three-day MATTA Fair in Kuala Lumpur.

Packages secured during the fair will be valid for travel from April until 15 December 2026, allowing travellers to lock in their Sarawak holiday now and plan their trip later within the year.

The travel experiences span multiple regions of Sarawak, reflecting the state’s diverse landscapes and cultures. In Southern Sarawak, Kuching offers heritage streets, vibrant culture and access to wildlife and national parks. Central Sarawak, centred around Sibu, introduces travellers to river journeys along the Rajang River, visits to traditional longhouses and authentic cultural encounters. Meanwhile, Northern Sarawak opens the door to the coastal gateway of Miri, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed sites of Gunung Mulu National Park and Niah National Park, and the cool highland landscapes of Bario.

Travellers can also time their visit to coincide with Sarawak’s vibrant calendar of events throughout the year. Among the highlights is the Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF) 2026, scheduled from 26 to 28 June 2026 at the Sarawak Cultural Village. Widely regarded as one of Southeast Asia’s most distinctive music festivals, RWMF brings together international and regional musicians, including Dato M Nasir, The Commodores featuring Thomas McClary, and Incognito, alongside immersive daytime workshops, cultural exchanges, and evening performances set against the backdrop of Borneo’s rainforest.

Complementing the travel offerings, the pavilion will also spotlight Sarawak’s arts, culture and culinary heritage, with participating non-trade exhibitors presenting traditional crafts, cultural expressions and local flavours that reflect the state’s diverse communities.

With limited-time savings available only during MATTA Fair, the Sarawak Pavilion offers travellers a compelling opportunity to secure a value-driven holiday while discovering the many sides of Sarawak.

Visitors can find the Sarawak Pavilion at Booth 1R01 at the MATTA Fair Kuala Lumpur.

Or visit: https://www.sarawaktourism.com/web/home/index

(Source: Your Stories — Sarawak Tourism Board)

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