SINGAPORE, 4 September 2023: SriLankan Airlines launched its latest campaign, ‘The Colours of Jaffna,’ last week to support tourism expansion through a new video that captures striking architecture and cultural characteristics in the northern city of Jaffna and its famous peninsula.
The video zooms in on the annual Nallur Kandaswamy Festival hosted in Nallur town, Jaffna, the scene of enthusiastic festivities spanning 20 to 25 days. This year, the festival opened on 21 August and ends on 15 September.
Complementing the promotional drive, the airlines’ leisure arm, SriLankan Holidays, has introduced holiday packages covering the best of Jaffna in cooperation with Jetwing Hotels as the exclusive hospitality partner.
The next phase of the campaign will see content creators and social influencers travelling on SriLankan flights to experience the destination and inspire their fans to follow in their trail.
The invitation to experience Jaffna through the airlines’ network includes India’s single largest market, which is connected to the island with over 80 flights weekly from nine Indian cities.
The airline is also promoting travel activities focussing on the Asia Cup cricket tournament that ends on 17 September, and the annual Kandy Esala Perahera held from 21 to 24 August. It’s a festival recognised worldwide for its pageantry and magnificent elephant processions led by traditional dancers through Kandy town’s narrow city centre streets. The 2024 festival is scheduled for 10 to 20 July 2024.
BANGKOK, 4 September 2023: Thai Airways International deploys Airbus A320 aircraft to operate to four regional destinations, formerly flown by its subsidiary THAI Smile Airways, which is being merged back into the parent airline, a process due to be concluded in early 2024.
Services on routes from Bangkok to Ahmedabad, Kolkata, Kaohsiung and Penang are shifting from Thai Smile to THAI during September and October, starting with Ahmedabad on 1 September and ending with Kolkata on 29 October.
1. Bangkok – Ahmedabad daily flights • TG343 departs from Bangkok at 2030 and arrives in Ahmedabad at 2355 hours. From 29 October 2023, TG343 will depart from Bangkok at 2035 and arrive in Ahmedabad at 2355 hours (local time) • TG344 departs from Ahmedabad at 0055 and arrives in Bangkok at 0655.
2. Bangkok – Kaohsiung daily flights • TG630 departs from Bangkok at 1145 and arrives in Kaohsiung at 1615. (From 29 October 2023, TG630 will depart from Bangkok at 1155 hours and arrive in Kaohsiung at 1615. • TG631 departs from Kaohsiung at 1715 and arrives in Bangkok at 1955. (From 29 October 2023, TG631 departs from Kaohsiung at 1715 and arrives in Bangkok at 1945).
3. Bangkok – Penang daily flights • TG425 departs from Bangkok at 1920 and arrives in Penang at 2210 hours. (From 29 October 2023, TG425 departs from Bangkok at 1930 hours and arrives in Penang at 2220. • TG426 departs from Penang at 08:05 hours (local time) and arrives in Bangkok at 08:55. (From 29 October 2023, TG426 will depart from Penang at 0805 and arrive in Bangkok at 0850.
4. Bangkok – Kolkata daily flights • TG313 departs from Bangkok at 2345 hours and arrives in Kolkata at 0045. (From 29 October 2023, TG313 will depart from Bangkok at 2335 and arrive in Kolkata at 0040.) • TG314 departs from Kolkata at 0200 and arrives in Bangkok at 0600. (From 29 October 2023, TG314 will depart from Kolkata at 0155 and arrive in Bangkok at 0550).
PHUKET, 1 September 2023: Travelindex will announce the winners of its 2023 TOP25 Restaurants Phuket Awards on 11 September, highlighting the favourite restaurants that illustrate why the Thai island is a popular destination for foodies.
The 2023 Awards Certificate Ceremony event will be hosted at the InterContinental Resort & Spa Phuket. It will also be the first in-person awards in Phuket, as the previous top 25 restaurants in Phuket were revealed by digital announcements only.
We are eager to share the 2023 Award Winners in Phuket, said TOP25 Restaurants Guide series founder Bernard Metzger. Phuket’s finest restaurants continue to impress patrons with the outstanding and delectable food served on the island.”
Since 2018, the annual list and awards have gained the attention of restaurant owners and chefs striving for a restaurant listing to boost their reputation and draw more customers.
About TOP25 Restaurants The annual TOP25 Awards showcase the most outstanding restaurants and the ultimate collection of dining venues. In addition to Bangkok, Travelindex also publishes TOP25 Restaurant Guides in the following destinations: Phuket, Singapore, Hong Kong, Shanghai, and Delhi.
SINGAPORE, 1 September 2023: OUTRIGGER Resorts & Hotels introduces Kauai Beach Resort & Spa in Hawaii, the latest addition to the hotel group’s global portfolio.
Located in the picturesque town of Lihue on the enchanting ‘Garden Island’ of Kauai, the resort is spread across 25 lush acres (10 ha) of beachfront property. It showcases 350 well-appointed rooms that offer breathtaking ocean views.
Hosts and management welcome the return of OUTRIGGER to the property.
The acquisition marks a pivotal step in OUTRIGGER’s expansion strategy and strengthens its presence on the four largest Hawaiian Islands.
Kauai Beach Resort & Spa holds a special place in OUTRIGGER’s history, having been managed by the company in the 1990s. With this acquisition, OUTRIGGER welcomes the property back into its fold, with plans to enhance the resort and provide an exceptional experience for its employees and guests.
The transition was marked by a traditional Hawaiian blessing led by Kumu Blaine Kamalani Kia – who started his career with OUTRIGGER 25 years earlier at the resort. The poignant ceremony included a mele kahea chant, which asked permission for OUTRIGGER to return to this special place. It was reciprocated by a mele komo chant of acceptance and invitation. A moment of silence was observed for the sister island of Maui, where wildfires recently devastated the town of Lahaina. OUTRIGGER Hospitality Group president and CEO Jeff Wagoner acknowledged that it was an emotional time for Hawaii.
“OUTRIGGER feels the heartache of the Maui fires deeply. Last week, many of our employees lost their homes and loved ones. But in times of sorrow, there is a certain healing in embracing new beginnings and intentionally lifting people up. Today’s tying of the maile lei was about bringing people together, not only here but across Hawaii and the world. It is an important symbol for us to be able to link ourselves together and move on into the future,” he said.
Kumu Blaine Kia added: “It’s that unity of coming together – like no like, kekahi i kekahi – one with each other, and trying to make sure that we raise our consciousness in the aloha spirit. I feel strongly, without a doubt, that OUTRIGGER Resorts & Hotels carries that spirit… I want to ensure we sustain and perpetuate it for many generations.”
With a legacy spanning 75 years, OUTRIGGER Resorts & Hotels is a distinguished hospitality brand dedicated to providing extraordinary guest experiences through its premier beach locations, captivating beach bars, authentic live music and commitment to ocean conservation. The acquisition of Kauai Beach Resort & Spa marks another step in the brand’s expansion journey, highlighting its deep-rooted connection to Hawaii and its local communities.
For reservations and more information about OUTRIGGER Kauai Beach Resort & Spa, visit www.OUTRIGGER.com. Or connect with your local travel advisor.
DUBAI, 1 September 2023: Emirates has reinforced its commitment to environmentally responsible practices by achieving IATA Environmental Assessment (IEnvA) Stage One and the IEnvA Illegal Wildlife Trade module certification.
The IEnvA system is an industry-leading environmental management system, and Emirates has implemented stage one of its core scope comprising flight operations, corporate activities, and an illegal wildlife trade module that supports Emirates’ longstanding environmental commitment to preserving wildlife and habitats.
Emirates’ divisional senior vice president of international affairs Sheikh Majid Al Mualla said: “We are proud to achieve the IEnvA Stage One certification, which is a testament to our longstanding commitment to impactful environmental sustainability initiatives, while certification to the module on illegal wildlife trade reinforces our position as a global leader in the fight against the trafficking and exploitation of wildlife. In addition to initiatives such as our recent closed-loop recycling programme and demonstration flight powered with 100% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), we are committed to robust environmental management systems and driving real change within our operations and across the industry.”
IATA’s chief economist and SVP of sustainability Marie Owens Thomsen, added: “We congratulate Emirates on achieving the IEnvA Stage 1 certification, a clear indicator of the airline’s progress to full IEnvA Certification. Stakeholders, including governments, financiers and business partners, will know that Emirates is not just meeting global standards and best practices on sustainability but is committed to continuous improvements to stay at the forefront of sustainability. We look forward to working with Emirates to achieve our goal of reducing environmental impacts, fighting against illegal wildlife trafficking and enhancing social responsibility.”
Emirates is a global leader in the fight against illegal wildlife trafficking and exploitation, intending to protect the beauty and biodiversity of the natural world to serve as an inspiration for travel now and for future generations. The airline is a founding signatory to the Buckingham Palace Declaration and a member of the United for Wildlife Transport Taskforce, convened by The Royal Foundation.
Emirates SkyCargo, the airline’s cargo arm, has a longstanding, zero-tolerance policy on illegal wildlife trade and a complete ban on hunting trophies for the Big 4. In addition to Emirates SkyCargo employees, wildlife awareness training has also been extended to employees in passenger services, including Cabin Crew, Emirates Airport Services and the Emirates Group Security team. The IEnvA Illegal Wildlife Trade certification demonstrates the company-wide commitment to taking action.
United for Wildlife’s transport and taskforce manager Ian Cruickshank noted: “As one of the United for Wildlife Transport Taskforce’s longest-standing members, Emirates continues to demonstrate their strong leadership in combatting wildlife trafficking. We congratulate the team on achieving this certification and look forward to ongoing collaboration to tackle wildlife crime worldwide.”
Earlier this year, Emirates committed US$200 million to research and development projects focussed on reducing the impact of fossil fuels in commercial aviation. Disbursed over three years, this is one of the biggest single commitments by any airline on sustainability, and by identifying partnerships with leading organisations, Emirates will contribute to finding innovative solutions to the industry’s most pressing challenges.
For more information on flights or bookings, check out www.emirates.com.
KUALA LUMPUR, 1 September 2023:The Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) will debut the MATTA Tourism Career & Education Fair (MTCEF),2 September 2, 2023, at Hall 9, Level 3 of Malaysia International Trade & Exhibition Centre (MITEC) in conjunction with MATTA Fair.
This groundbreaking career event results from a strategic collaboration between MATTA and Taylor’s University, bringing together industry experts, educators and aspiring students for a day of knowledge and career-building opportunities.
CAPTION: Photo credit Taylor’s University. Career fair partner.
“MATTA Tourism Career & Education Fair (MTCEF) is poised to be a pivotal event in the field of tourism, facilitating dialogue and collaboration among professionals, students, and organisations in the Hospitality, Travel & Tourism, and Events sectors. With 20 exhibitors and an anticipated 100 participants from diverse backgrounds, this fair promises to be a hub of innovation and learning,” said MATTA president Nigel Wong.
The career fair boasts a distinguished lineup of speakers, including Wan Yon Shahima binti Wan Othman from HRD Corp, Associate Prof. Dr. Kandappan from Taylor’s University and Hannah Pearson from Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA). Together, they will provide invaluable insights into the tourism industry’s evolving dynamics.
“Aspiring students and industry enthusiasts will have the opportunity to explore a wide range of educational programs, internship opportunities, and career prospects offered by esteemed institutions and organisations. The career fair offers a unique platform for attendees to connect with industry professionals, educators, and peers, fostering connections that can shape their future careers and educational paths.” Wong explained.
“MTCEF underscores our commitment to nurturing the future leaders of the tourism industry. Through this event, we aim to empower students and professionals with the knowledge and connections needed to excel in the dynamic world of tourism.”
It is free admission to the career fair from 1000 to 1800 pm on 2 September 2023. MATTA provides free shuttle service to MITEC from KL Sentral and Sunway Putra Mall.
To encourage visitors to use the shuttle service, there will be a daily lucky draw to win a MYR100 Travel Voucher for redemption at the domestic exhibitor companies. The voucher is valid till 31 March 2024.
SINGAPORE, 1 September 2023: Vistara, a joint venture of the Tata group and Singapore Airlines, will add daily flights between Delhi and the Maldives starting 1 October.
Vistara will operate its A320neo aircraft featuring a three-class configuration on the route. It will enhance connectivity between India and Maldives following the launch of Mumbai to Malé flights earlier this year.
Commenting on the new route from Delhi, Vistara chief executive officer Vinod Kannan said: “We are thrilled to introduce direct connectivity between Delhi and Malé – our second route to the exquisite beach destination, in addition to Mumbai-Malé. This new route will enable us to provide our customers with enhanced access to one of the world’s most popular holiday destinations while also imparting further momentum to the existing bilateral cooperation between India and the Republic of Maldives.”
Return fares on the daily flight from Delhi to the Maldives start at INR 26999 all-in (Return fare from Malé MVR 5099)
The capital city of Maldives, Malé, is the ideal holiday destination for travellers who appreciate serene blue seas and want to indulge in the rich Maldivian heritage and culture. Malé is among the five smallest capital cities in the world, where you can explore malls, markets, and restaurants.
Flight details Delhi – Malé
The airline also operates direct flights between Malé and Mumbai. The round-trip all-inclusive fare Mumbai-Malé-Mumbai starts at INR21599, and the round-trip all-inclusive fare Malé-Mumbai-Malé starts at MVR 3699.
SINGAPORE, 1 September 2023: The Qantas Group will remove the expiry date on Covid travel credits due to run out at the end of this year.
It means Qantas customers with Covid credits can request a cash refund, and Jetstar customers can use their Covid vouchers for flights indefinitely.
The announcement made on 31 August ensures that the Qantas Covid credit policy is one of the most flexible of any airline in the world. It follows three prior deadline extensions. Some airlines have already expired their travel credits, and many more will run out completely at the end of this year.
To encourage more people to reconnect with their credits, from 4 September 2023, Qantas is offering double the standard Frequent Flyer Points for any flights booked with a Qantas Covid credit before 31 December 2023.
Due to system limitations, Qantas Covid credit can’t be converted into a travel booking after 31 December 2023 but can be taken as a refund at any time.
The Qantas Group CEO Alan Joyce, in a video message to customers, confirmed, “we’re scrapping the expiry dates on all travel credits that came out of Covid. If you have a Qantas Covid credit, you can request a cash refund at any point in the future. And if you have a Jetstar Covid voucher, you can use it for travel indefinitely. These credits and vouchers will never expire. We’re doing this because we’ve listened.”
He also confirmed the airline is offering double frequent flyer points effective 4 September when booking a flight with Qantas Covid credit before the end of the year.
“All up, this is one of the most flexible approaches that any airline has taken to its COVID credits,” he concluded.
HANOI, 1 September 2023: China Southern Airlines will restore flights between Guangzhou (China) and Cam Ranh (Vietnam) starting 27 September 2023, according to a Cam Ranh International Airport statement.
China Southern Airlines successfully flew the route until the Covid-19 lockdown in Asia in 2020. It returns after more than a three-year pandemic pause.
Photo credit China Southern Airlines. A321 serves the Shanghai – Seoul route.
Quoting news from Vietnam’s Tourism Information Technology Centre (TITC), the airline will fly three weekly services on Wednesday, Friday and Saturday during the first phase (27 September to 27 October).
Flights depart from Baiyun Airport (Guangzhou, China) at 1340 and arrive at Cam Ranh International Airport (Khanh Hoa, Vietnam) at 1510. The return flight will depart from Cam Ranh International Airport at 1600 and arrive in Guangzhou at 1920. The airline will use an A321 with 179 seats.
Cam Ranh is a city in Southern Khánh Hòa Province, in Vietnam’s southern central coastal region. It’s the second-largest city in the province, after Nha Trang, a popular beach resort town 30 km from Cam Ranh International Airport.
BANGKOK, 1 September 2023: Thai Vietjet announced that it will increase flights to and from Phuket to 204 weekly starting this October.
The airline reported that it will represent a 61% improvement by the end of the year, noting that the decision followed face-to-face meetings with Thailand’s incoming prime minister, Srettha Thavisin, who will officially start work on 8 September. He met with the top management of the eight airlines making up the Thai Airline Association. (AirAsia, AirAsia X, Bangkok Airways, Nok Air, Thai Airways International, Thai Smile, Thai Vietjet and Thai Lion.)
Thai Vietjet chief executive officer Woranate Laprabang said: “As a Thai carrier and an active member of the Thai Airline Association, Thai Vietjet was honoured to discuss and present our proposal to the PM.
“We all agreed that tourism is one of Thailand’s largest sources of sustainable income, and it’s important that we push forward and enhance policies to stimulate the tourism industry in the long run, including the free-visa policy for tourists from potential countries such as China and India.”
Thai Vietjet will increase flights to Phuket from 126 flights to 204 flights weekly, beginning in October. The airline offers direct flights to Phuket International Airport from Bangkok and Chiang Mai. It will reintroduce direct flights to Phuket from Chiang Rai on 29 October, offering four flights weekly every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday.
Regarding international services from Phuket, the airline already flies to Ho Chi Minh City, and there are plans to add more services from Phuket to cities in China, India and possibly some more destinations in Southeast Asia. The airline’s press statement said even flights to Australia are on the table for consideration. Still, it is more likely the airline would increase direct services from Phuket to its Ho Chi Minh City hub to connect with direct flights to Melbourne or Sydney.
