Tuesday, May 26, 2026
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Handl heads the Dusit trio team

BANGKOK, 3 April 2026: Dusit International, one of Thailand’s leading integrated hospitality companies, has appointed Marc Handl as Managing Director of Dusit Thani Bangkok, its reimagined luxury hotel overlooking Lumpini Park in central Bangkok, alongside Dusit Residences and Dusit Parkside, two upcoming luxury residential offerings managed by Dusit. 

All three form part of Dusit Central Park, one of the city’s most significant mixed-use developments, which also includes a retail centre, an office tower, and one of Thailand’s largest rooftop parks in the heart of the capital. 

A third-generation hotelier, Handl brings more than three decades of international experience across luxury hotels, resorts, and mixed-use developments. His career spans senior leadership roles with globally recognised brands, including Park Hyatt, The Ritz-Carlton, Aman, and Rosewood, with experience across Asia, the Middle East, and the Americas.

With a professional foundation in food and beverage, Handl combines strong operational expertise with commercial leadership across sales, marketing, and multi-property management. His international upbringing and extensive experience in Asia support a culturally attuned leadership style aligned with the expectations of today’s global luxury traveller.

He joins Dusit from Abu Dhabi National Hotels, where he oversaw a portfolio of 15 properties across 10 international brands, further strengthening his expertise in multi-asset operations, asset management, and brand positioning in complex, competitive markets.

His appointment comes at a pivotal time for Dusit, as the company builds on the early success of its reimagined flagship hotel, which reopened in September 2024 following a complete redevelopment that honours the original property’s rich heritage. Since then, it has already received a Michelin Key for its accommodations and service, and a Michelin Star for its signature restaurant, Cannubi by Umberto Bombana. 

Dusit is now preparing for the phased introduction of its branded residences, Dusit Residences and Dusit Parkside, at Dusit Central Park. These offer two distinct luxury living concepts within the same tower overlooking Lumpini Park, combining classic, heritage-inspired luxury residences with contemporary, lifestyle-led living. Unit transfers are expected to unlock significant value for the company.

“Bangkok has long been a city I’ve aspired to work in, so it’s a real privilege to join Dusit and take on this role at such an important time for the business,” said Handl. “Dusit Thani Bangkok has a strong legacy, rooted in heritage and a clear sense of identity, and I look forward to working with the team to continue building its international profile while staying true to what makes Thai hospitality so distinctive. I’m also excited to be leading Dusit Residences and Dusit Parkside as they prepare to welcome their first residents and establish themselves among the city’s most distinctive new addresses.”

For more information, visit dusit.com/dusitthani-bangkok.

About Dusit Thani Bangkok 
Located overlooking Lumpini Park in central Bangkok, Dusit Thani Bangkok is Dusit International’s reimagined flagship hotel, reopened in September 2024 following the redevelopment of the original property, which operated for nearly five decades. 

The luxury hotel forms part of Dusit Central Park – a landmark mixed-use development comprising branded residences (Dusit Residences and Dusit Parkside), a retail centre, an office tower, and one of Thailand’s largest rooftop parks.

The property has been awarded a Michelin Key, while its signature restaurant, Cannubi by Umberto Bombana, holds a Michelin Star. It was also included on the extended list of The World’s 50 Best Hotels 2025, further cementing its status among Bangkok’s leading luxury destinations.

(Source: Your Stories — Dusit International)

Millennium hires Chief Commercial Officer

SINGAPORE, 3 April 2026: Millennium Hotels and Resorts (MHR), an international hospitality group with 145 hotels across key gateway cities worldwide, has announced the appointment of Cinn Tan as Chief Commercial Officer.

Tan has more than three decades of international hospitality experience across Asia Pacific, China, Europe, and the US.

Photo credit: MHR. Cinn Tan, Chief Commercial Officer.

She has held senior leadership roles within leading hospitality groups. She has a strong track record of advancing commercial capabilities, strengthening brand equity, and building high-performing teams across multiple markets.

Before joining MHR, she served as Chief Commercial & Marketing Officer at Pan Pacific Hotels Group, where she led integrated commercial and marketing functions, including branding, loyalty, sales, revenue management, distribution, and digital marketing. She has also held senior leadership roles at Jin Jiang International and The Ascott Limited.

About Millennium Hotels and Resorts 
Millennium Hotels and Resorts is a dynamic, global hospitality group with properties spanning four continents and 80 destinations. MHR owns, manages, and operates over 145 properties worldwide, including in New York, Los Angeles, London, Paris, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Auckland, Beijing, and Singapore. MHR is a Hong Leong Group subsidiary of Singapore-listed global real estate company City Developments Limited. 

(Source: MHR)

ITA returns to London Heathrow

ROME, 3 April 2026: ITA Airways resumed flights from Rome Fiumicino to London Heathrow earlier this week, marking a welcome return to the UK aviation hub.

Lufthansa made the necessary airport slots available to ITA Airways at London Heathrow, allowing ITA to schedule twice daily services from Rome.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held on 29 March in the presence of Carla Catuogno, Head of Europe Sales Region ITA Airways, Ben Crowley, Head of Aviation – Airline Partnerships & Engagement, Heathrow and Jonas Badde, First Secretary at the Embassy of Italy in London.

Rome Fiumicino → London Heathrow 
The first flight departs at 0750 and arrives at 0940. The second flight departs Rome at 1350 and arrives at 1540.

London Heathrow → Rome Fiumicino
The first flight departs at 1030 and arrives at 1410. The second flight departs at 1630 and arrives at 2010.

Connections between the British capital and Milan Linate will continue to operate via London City Airport. With these services, travelling between Italy and London becomes even easier and more convenient — whether for business or leisure.

“Our company is back at Heathrow, the UK’s only hub airport and the most connected airport in the world. It is further proof of the importance of the synergies with the Lufthansa Group, which enabled us to secure the slots needed to operate”, said ITA Airways CEO and General Manager Joerg Eberhart. “Returning to Heathrow will bring many advantages: thanks to the characteristics of the airport, we will be able to operate flights with larger aircraft and greater capacity, increasing both passengers and revenues”.

The return to Heathrow is one of the most important new features of Summer 2026, in which ITA Airways will fly to 72 destinations on 19 domestic, 36 international and 17 intercontinental routes, including 12 seasonal destinations (three domestic and nine international) to Italian, Greek and Spanish islands.

The new intercontinental flight to Houston, US, will also begin on 1 May 2026. This is the first direct connection between Rome Fiumicino and the state capital of Texas, with three weekly flights, which will increase to five from June.

The summer timetable will also include new direct flights from Rome Fiumicino to Malaga, Valencia, and Marseille. ITA will add seven flights per week from Rome Fiumicino to Tunis between June and September. 

For Summer 2026, seasonal connections will also include Olbia–Turin and Olbia–Genoa, both operating in August with weekly Saturday services.

(Source: ITA)

Star Alliance welcomes Italy’s flag carrier

SINGAPORE, 3 April 2026: ITA Airways marked its entry into the Alliance during a ceremony held at the Piazza di Spagna Lounge, Rome Fiumicino Airport Terminal 3, presided over by ITA Airways Chief Executive Officer and General Manager Joerg Eberhart, Star Alliance Chief Executive Officer Theo Panagiotoulias, and Lufthansa Group Chief Commercial Officer Dieter Vranckx.

Since 1 April, ITA Airways has been connected to the Alliance’s global network, linking its Rome Fiumicino hub and Milan Linate airport, served by 17 Star Alliance members collectively, to more than 1,150 destinations worldwide.

Photo credit: Star Alliance.

Customers travelling across the network can now benefit from through check-in, reciprocal frequent flyer recognition and access to Star Alliance lounges, creating a more seamless customer experience, in and out of Italy.

Celebrating the milestone, Star Alliance Chief Executive Officer Theo Panagiotoulias said: “On behalf of our members, I am delighted to welcome ITA Airways as the 26th member of Star Alliance. This is the result of a focused and collaborative integration effort. With ITA Airways on board, we not only expand our network to and from Italy, but also elevate the connected experience of our customers when travelling across multiple airlines, through access to the world’s largest network of airport lounges, more comprehensive loyalty benefits, and other benefits like baggage tracking – all designed to enhance the journey at every step.”

The Lufthansa Group has mentored ITA Airways’ induction into the Alliance, and expert teams across the group’s airlines have facilitated an intense integration programme over the last several months.

ITA Airways, which flies over 16 million customers every year, adds more than 350 daily flights to the Alliance network, supported by a strong domestic and regional footprint. The addition expands travel options across Italy and Europe and improves connectivity between Southern Europe and key international markets.

As part of its membership, eligible customers can enjoy priority services, lounge access across the Alliance network, and reciprocal recognition of frequent flyer programmes, including the ability to earn and redeem miles. Star Alliance Gold customers will also have access to ITA Airways lounges in Rome, Milan and Catania.

Star Alliance now comprises 26 member airlines, offering more than 17,500 daily flights across a global network spanning over 190 countries.

Series by Marriott debuts in Japan

OSAKA, 3 April 2026: Series by Marriott, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s global portfolio, has confirmed the opening of the 256-room Sugata Hotel Osaka Shinsaibashi, Series by Marriott in the Shinsaibashi district, one of Osaka’s most dynamic commercial and lifestyle neighbourhoods. 

The opening marks the debut of Series by Marriott in Japan.

L-R: Sugata Hotel Osaka Shinsaibashi, Series by Marriott — exterior, double room.

“Series by Marriott is a regionally created, globally connected collection brand that brings together independent hotels and locally recognised hotel groups under the umbrella of Marriott Bonvoy,” said Marriott International Chief Lodging Product & Services Officer — Asia Pacific, excluding China, Cristiano Rinaldi. “Following the successful global debut of Series by Marriott in India last year, this opening represents an important milestone for the brand’s expansion in Asia Pacific and underscores Marriott International’s continued commitment to Japan as a strategically important market.”

Situated in the heart of Shinsaibashi, one of Osaka’s most dynamic commercial and lifestyle districts, the hotel places guests within walking distance of Shinsaibashi-suji Shopping Street, Amerikamura, and the entertainment quarter of Dotonbori. It is 300 metres from Shinsaibashi Station on the Midosuji Subway Line, providing seamless city-wide access. Osaka Itami International Airport is 15 kilometres away (a 30-minute drive), while Kansai International Airport is 48 kilometres away (a 45-minute drive).

(Source: Marriott International)

HKIA wins multiple awards

HONG KONG, 3 April 2026: Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) has recently garnered awards for its outstanding performance in areas including security processing, aviation infrastructure, passenger services, and security processing.

HKIA stood out among airports worldwide to win “Best Airport in the World” at the Global Travel Awards 2026.

The nomination list comprised leading airports worldwide. The award is based on votes cast by millions of travellers globally, recognising organisations that demonstrate excellence in aviation infrastructure and passenger experience.

“Best Airport in the World” at the Global Travel Awards 2026.

In addition, HKIA has been named by Skytrax as the winner of “World’s Best Airport Security Processing” and “World’s Best Airport Washrooms” at the 2026 World Airport Awards, recognising its steadfast dedication to enhancing passenger experience, ensuring aviation safety and delivering service excellence.

These awards underscore HKIA’s commitment to maintaining rigorous security standards while actively leveraging innovative technologies to deliver an efficient and seamless passenger experience. HKIA has fully automated security gates, immigration channels and boarding gates through facial recognition, and is currently undertaking a comprehensive upgrade of security screening channels across all areas, replacing traditional X-ray channels with CT-driven screening. The forthcoming Terminal 2 will also incorporate this proven efficiency enhancement, alongside other passenger-facility upgrades.

Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK), Chief Executive Officer Vivian Cheung, remarked: “We are truly honoured to receive the best airport awards across such a wide range of areas, which reflect the dedication and collective efforts of the entire Hong Kong International Airport community. We continue to expand our air network for both passenger and cargo traffic, with a view to reinforcing Hong Kong’s role as the hub of Asia. Looking ahead, the SKYTOPIA development will transform HKIA into an Airport City, creating a dynamic destination that inspires travel, drives connectivity and welcomes the world to Hong Kong.”

(Source: AAHK)

PHAB auction funds educational grants

PHUKET, 3 April 2026: Phuket Hotels Association, the non-profit organisation of hoteliers focused on creating a sustainable future for Phuket, brings back its “Absolutely Fabulous Travel Sale” with prizes, including luxury hotel stays and outstanding travel experiences all around the globe.

The Phuket Hotels Association Benefit (PHAB) annual online auction is a charitable initiative that donates all proceeds to the association’s education programme, which funds hospitality scholarships and internships for young people in Phuket. 

MnK Niseko and Dusit Thani Maldives are among the key supporters of this year’s edition of the initiative.

Talent development is a key pillar of the Phuket Hotels Association, which collaborates closely with local colleges, universities, and hotels to empower the next generation of Thai hospitality professionals.

To date, PHAB campaigns have raised funds to support 125 local students through professional development opportunities, including three- and four-year scholarships. Now in its eighth year, PHAB continues to rely on the generosity of its supporters to create life-changing opportunities for Phuket’s talented youth. Phuket Rajabhat University students are supported by the Phuket Hotels Association’s educational programme.

This year’s Absolutely Fabulous Travel Sale gives members of the public the chance to bid for multi-night stays at hotels and resorts in dream destinations worldwide, such as the Maldives, Phuket, Bali, Bangkok, Japan, Samui Island and Hong Kong. With prizes donated by renowned brands, such as Rosewood, Six Senses, COMO and InterContinental, the auction promises once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

In addition to the hotel stays, other prizes include dining and spa therapies, as well as educational online certificate courses. 

For the full list of prizes and to take part, visit PHAB 2026.   

“PHAB is one of the most meaningful initiatives we run each year, because it directly changes lives. To date, we have funded 125 full scholarships for local students, giving them the chance to complete three- and four-year hospitality degrees and build rewarding careers, said Phuket Hotels Association President Bjorn Courage. “This year’s Absolutely Fabulous Travel Sale offers incredible experiences around the world, and every bid helps open a door for a young person in Phuket. It’s a chance to travel, give back, and be part of something truly life-changing.” 

The Absolutely Fabulous Travel Sale runs from now until 1400 (Bangkok time) on 27 May 2026. Click here to place bids.

Talent development is one of the key pillars of the Phuket Hotels Association, which works hand-in-hand with local educational institutions and hotels to empower the next generation of Thai hospitality professionals.

To learn more about the Phuket Hotels Association, visit www.phukethotelsassociation.com

(Source: PHA)

Qatar Airways rebuilds flight schedules

DOHA, 3 April 2026: Qatar Airways has published its latest revised schedule, reflecting the gradual increase in flights to and from Doha, serving more than 120 destinations by mid-May 2026, across the airline’s global network.

All flights to and from Doha continue to operate through dedicated flight corridors established in close coordination with the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority.

Photo credit: Qatar Airways.

Flight schedules are subject to change or cancellation due to operational, regulatory, safety, or other circumstances beyond the airline’s control. 

To view the schedule, click here.

Passengers who currently hold a confirmed booking on a flight to the destinations listed in the new schedule will be contacted with new flight information. 

The airline advises passengers to check the “Flight Status” tool in the Qatar Airways app or on the website before heading to Hamad International Airport, as schedules are still subject to sudden changes. 

Qatar Airways advises that it is now embarking on a significant network restoration following the severe operational disruptions in March. While many scheduled flights are back in the air, the situation remains fluid.

Flights successfully departed this week from Doha to major hubs including London (LHR), Paris (CDG), Bangkok (BKK), and Shanghai (PVG).

Airspace corridors

All current operations are conducted through “dedicated flight corridors” established in coordination with the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority to safely navigate ongoing regional constraints.

The airline has filed plans to resume or increase frequencies to several key destinations this month.

Flights resuming early April

Service to Seoul (ICN), Phuket/Penang (HKT/PEN), and Clark (CRK) is scheduled to restart the first week of April.

From 16 April 16, the airline intends to resume flights to Los Angeles (LAX), Seattle (SEA), Geneva (GVA), and Stockholm (ARN).

Ongoing suspensions

Several routes from Doha remain suspended for the remainder of April, including Dubai (DXB), Abu Dhabi (AUH), Bahrain (BAH), and Beirut (BEY).

Booking flexibility

For travellers affected by the recent disruptions (specifically those with bookings through 15 June 2026), Qatar Airways is offering complimentary date changes (within 14 days of the original date) or full refunds for unused ticket values.

Aircraft changes

Airbus A380 operations have been removed from the schedule for the first half of April, with most long-haul routes currently being serviced by Boeing 777-300ER or Airbus A350 aircraft.

(Source: Qatar Airways)

CX flies Hong Kong-Seattle route

HONG KONG, 3 April 2026: Cathay Pacific launched its non-stop passenger flights between Hong Kong and Seattle on Monday, providing customers with the only direct connection between the airline’s home city and Washington State’s cultural and tech capital. 

Operating five times per week, the new service extends the airline’s passenger network in North America to nine destinations.

Photo credit: Cathay Pacific.

As part of Cathay’s 80th-anniversary celebrations, the inaugural Hong Kong-Seattle flight was operated by the airline’s special-edition Airbus A350 aircraft, featuring its iconic “lettuce leaf sandwich” livery, honouring eight decades of moving its home city, people and customers forward since 1946.

Cathay Chief Customer and Commercial Officer Lavinia Lau said: “As we celebrate ‘80 Years Together’ and connect Hong Kong with the world, the launch of our Seattle service highlights the deepening ties between two global centres of innovation, culture, and commerce. 

“Through the Cathay Group’s investment of well over HKD100 billion into our fleet, cabin products, lounges and digital innovation, we are committed to offering customers a seamless and elevated travel experience, whether they are travelling to Hong Kong or connecting to onward destinations through our global network covering more than 100 destinations worldwide. This new service not only enhances connectivity for business and leisure travellers, but also reinforces our role in supporting Hong Kong’s position as a leading international aviation hub.”

Cathay Pacific’s Hong Kong-Seattle service uses an Airbus A350-900 aircraft, configured with business class, premium economy, and economy cabins. Flight schedules are as follows:

30 March – 31 May 2026; 16 September – 24 October 2026

This summer, Cathay Pacific is operating close to 120 return flights per week to nine passenger destinations across North America, including Boston, Chicago, Dallas-Fort Worth, Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco, Seattle, Toronto and Vancouver.

(Source: Cathay Pacific)

Sarawak reaches out to Singaporean travellers

KUCHING, 2 April 2026: As regional travel within ASEAN continues to gain momentum, Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) participated in the NATAS Travel Fair from 27 to 29 March at the  Singapore EXPO, reinforcing Sarawak’s presence in one of its key ASEAN markets.

STB reported that the event strengthened engagement with Singaporean outbound travellers, presenting Sarawak’s diverse travel experiences and connecting directly with travel partners to offer curated holiday packages to the destination. 

STB was joined by co-exhibitors EU Holidays Pte Ltd, Meidi Travel Solutions Pte Ltd, and Azza Travel & Tours Pte Ltd, providing travellers with convenient access to Sarawak travel packages and on-site travel-planning support during the fair.

Singapore remains one of Sarawak’s key regional markets. In 2025, Sarawak recorded 64,295 visitor arrivals from Singapore, marking a 7.53% year-on-year increase and the highest Singapore arrivals recorded to date. 

Participation in the NATAS Travel Fair 2026 should support marketing efforts to reach the 2026 target of 69,000 visitor arrivals from Singapore.

“Singapore has consistently demonstrated a strong interest in Sarawak, and the steady growth in arrivals reflects the appeal of our diverse offerings, from culture and heritage to food, nature and adventure. 

Our presence at the NATAS Travel Fair allowed us to showcase the breadth of experiences across Southern, Central and Northern Sarawak. NATAS Travel Fair provides a valuable platform

for us to engage directly with consumers at the point where travel decisions are being made,” said Sarawak Tourism Board Chief Executive Officer Dr Sharzede Datu Haji Salleh Askor. 

Three gateways

Singapore enjoys direct air connectivity to Sarawak’s three main gateways — Kuching, Sibu and Miri — enabling convenient access to the state’s Southern, Central and Northern regions, each offering distinct travel experiences. Direct services operated by AirAsia and Scoot connect Singapore to Sarawak’s key entry points, supporting seamless travel across the destination and enhancing access for visitors from the Singapore market.

South Sarawak

Southern Sarawak, via Kuching, blends heritage, culture and nature. The region is home to the Sarawak Delta Geopark. This landscape brings together coastal ecosystems, rainforest habitats and cultural sites, including Bako National Park, Semenggoh Wildlife Centre and the Sarawak Cultural Village, alongside major cultural institutions such as the Borneo Cultures Museum. Kuching also offers a vibrant food scene recognised under its designation as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, with iconic dishes such as Laksa Sarawak, Kolo Mee and an abundance of fresh seafood. The city is also home to signature events, including the 2026 Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF).

Central Sarawak

Central Sarawak, accessible via Sibu and extending to areas such as Mukah and Sarikei, offers river-based travel experiences along the Rajang River, visits to traditional longhouses and immersive community-based cultural encounters. The region is also known for Sibu’s Foochow culinary heritage and Sarikei’s reputation as Sarawak’s “Pineapple Town.”

North Sarawak

Northern Sarawak, via Miri, provides access to Sarawak’s two UNESCO World Heritage Sites — Gunung Mulu National Park and Niah National Park — recognised for their remarkable

limestone cave systems, biodiversity and archaeological significance. The region also offers access to the cool highland landscapes of Bario in the Kelabit Highlands.

For more information on Sarawak’s attractions, visit: Sarawak Tourism Board

(Source: Your Stories — Sarawak Tourism Board)