Trip.com connects with events platform

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July 17, 2026

SINGAPORE, 17 July 2026: Trip.com Group and Seat Unique Group, a premium hospitality and live events platform, have inked a global partnership to deliver hospitality and VIP packages to millions of travellers worldwide.

The partnership introduces premium live events as a new category across Trip.com Group’s platforms, providing customers with access to more than 500,000 official hospitality and VIP packages across Formula 1, Premier League football, major music tours and other world-class live events.

For Seat Unique Group, the agreement accelerates its international growth strategy. It marks its first major expansion into the Asia-Pacific region, connecting its network of more than 140 official rightsholders with one of the world’s largest international travel audiences.

The announcement comes as experience-led travel continues to reshape how people plan international trips. Trip.com Group’s recent research found that two-thirds of Asia Pacific travellers have planned vacations around concerts at least once, with 66% willing to travel internationally to watch their favourite artists live. In addition, football, basketball, and Formula 1 are among the most popular live sports to watch on vacation.

For international travellers, the partnership offers seamless access to official premium experiences at some of Europe’s most iconic sporting, music and entertainment events through Trip.com Group’s all-in-one platform. With every package sourced directly through Seat Unique Group’s extensive network of official rightsholder relationships, travellers can book with confidence, knowing they’re purchasing authentic hospitality and VIP experiences from trusted sources.

For the 140-plus official rightsholders working with Seat Unique Group, the partnership expands reach and unlocks access to one of the world’s largest international travel audiences. By placing official premium inventory in front of hundreds of millions of new buyers already planning trips to the UK and Europe, it creates a powerful new distribution channel that would be difficult, if not impossible, to replicate through their own channels alone.

Seat Unique Group CEO Robin Sherry said: “The way people travel is changing. Increasingly, it’s no longer just about where you go, but what you experience when you get there. By partnering with Trip.com Group, we’re giving millions of travellers access to official premium experiences at some of the world’s biggest sports, music and entertainment events through a platform they already know and trust. This partnership marks a significant milestone for our business. It accelerates our international growth, helps our rightsholder partners reach millions of new premium customers and brings unforgettable live experiences within reach of a truly global audience.”

Trip.com Group Chief Marketing Officer Bo Sun said: “Experience-led travel is reshaping how people plan their journeys, and travellers are increasingly building trips around the moments that matter most to them. Live events are a powerful expression of that shift, and through this partnership we’re bringing fans closer to some of the world’s most exciting sports, music, and entertainment experiences. This marks another step in our journey to unlock new possibilities between travel and experiences, bringing greater value to travellers and destinations worldwide.”

Premium live experiences will be available on Trip.com in the coming months, providing travellers with access to official hospitality and VIP experiences at Europe’s eminent live events.

Seat Unique Group works directly with many of the world’s most recognisable clubs, venues and promoters, including Arsenal FC, Everton FC, Real Madrid, AC Milan, Co-op Live, KMJ Entertainment and most Grand Prix races.

(Source: Trip.com and Seat Unique Group)

BESarawak appoints Chief Executive Officer

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Your Stories

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July 16, 2026

KUCHING, 16 July 2026: Business Events Sarawak has announced the appointment of Jason Tan Chin Foo as its Chief Executive Officer, with immediate effect.

Having served the organisation in various leadership capacities over the past decade, Jason now leads BESarawak into its next phase of growth with a vision to strengthen Sarawak’s position as a globally competitive business events destination through purposeful collaboration, innovation and legacy-driven development.

*Datu Hii Chang Kee (left), Chairman of BESarawak, presents the official appointment to Jason Tan Chin Foo (right).*

“I believe the world’s most impactful business events destinations are built on strong ecosystems and meaningful collaboration among government, industry, academia, associations and the media. That is how ideas and partnerships are transformed into action, creating opportunities that strengthen our economy, communities and future,” said Jason.

“Sarawak has built strong foundations over the years,” he added. “I aspire to bring these strengths together into a more connected and future-ready business events ecosystem by strengthening collaboration, aligning our collective capabilities, and creating an environment where innovation, partnerships and opportunities can thrive.

Together, we will strengthen Sarawak’s global competitiveness, deepen international partnerships, and advance the aspirations of the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030 through high-impact business events that generate lasting economic, social and intellectual value, ensuring every event leaves a strong and meaningful legacy for Sarawak, while reinforcing our position as the Legacy Capital of Business Events in Malaysia and Borneo.”

Deputy State Secretary (Operation) and Chairman of BESarawak, Datu Hii Chang Kee, said Jason’s appointment reflects both continuity and confidence in the bureau’s future direction.

“Jason has consistently demonstrated strategic leadership and a strong commitment to advancing Sarawak’s business events industry. The Board has every confidence that he will build on BESarawak’s strong foundations and achievements, further strengthen the organisation and the wider business events ecosystem, and lead the industry towards an even more impactful and globally competitive future for Sarawak.”

He has played an instrumental role in advancing Sarawak’s business events industry through strategic destination development, international bidding, industry advocacy, legacy initiatives and stakeholder engagement. Since joining BESarawak in 2012, he has held key leadership positions across Business Development, International Event Bidding, Research, Marketing and Communications, contributing significantly to Sarawak’s emergence as one of Asia-Pacific’s leading business-events destinations.

About Business Events Sarawak
Business Events Sarawak (BESarawak) is a strategic advisor driving legacy impact through business events. As a Sarawak Government non-profit, the agency provides advice, support, and services to develop and host impact-driven events that deliver lasting value. The business events industry is a key contributor to Sarawak’s Post COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030), with BESarawak trusted to facilitate outcomes that support Sarawak’s sustainable growth and advance the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs). For more information, visit www.businesseventssarawak.com.

(Source: Your Stories — BESarawak)

Carnival Cruise Line unveils Carnival Destiny

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Newsdesk

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July 16, 2026

SINGAPORE, 16 July 2026: Carnival Cruise Line marked a major milestone with the traditional steel-cutting ceremony for its newest ship, Carnival Destiny, due to set sail in summer 2029.

It’s the first of three vessels in its next-generation fleet, officially designated the Ace Class.

*Carnival Destiny is coming in summer 2029.*

Held at the Fincantieri shipyard, the steel-cutting ceremony revealed the ship’s name and showcased a 3D hologram offering a first look at the future of Carnival cruising.

Carnival’s partnership with Fincantieri—a global leader in shipbuilding—dates back more than 30 years to the original Carnival Destiny, which ushered in a new era as the world’s largest cruise ship at the time. Today, that legacy continues with a class designed to redefine the guest experience.

Carnival Destiny will introduce a new way to experience the ocean from the ship, making it the most outward-facing megaship at sea. It will feature more ocean-view balcony cabins and 4.5 acres of glass—including expansive, multi-story glass walls—all of which will open up sightlines throughout the vessel.

Carnival Destiny will also deliver a bold evolution in how guests engage on board. More than 70% of its venues and attractions will be entirely new concepts for Carnival.

“Carnival Destiny builds on a legacy that changed cruising once before, reimagining what guests can experience at sea,” said Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy. “With this ship, we’re elevating the guest experience again, creating a ship that feels more expansive, while helping guests feel more connected and ultimately have more fun.”

Carnival Destiny will sail to destinations in the Paradise Collection by Carnival, the largest portfolio of exclusive destinations in the Caribbean, Bahamas and Mexico. Additional details on Carnival Destiny’s features and experiences will be released later this year, with the ship’s delivery scheduled for Summer 2029. Two additional Ace-Class ships are planned for 2031 and 2033.

(Source: Carnival).

Vietjet to sponsor ASEAN football events

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Newsdesk

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July 16, 2026

SINGAPORE, 16 July 2026: Vietjet has been named the Official Airline Partner of four ASEAN United FC events — ASEAN Hyundai Cup, ASEAN Club Championship Shopee Cup, ASEAN Women’s MSIG Cup, and ASEAN U-23 Championship.

The partnership was concluded by SPORTFIVE, the ASEAN Football Federation’s (AFF) exclusive commercial partner.

Tran Quoc Tuan, AFF Council Member, President of VFF (second from right), presents the cooperation agreement to To Viet Thang, Standing Vice President of Vietjet (second from left), witnessed by Winston Lee, General Secretary of AFF (far right) and Ole Schilke, Senior Vice President of Corporate Partnerships at Sportfive (far left).

Since launching its first flight in 2011, Vietjet has expanded its network across Vietnam and internationally, with more than 135 routes spanning Southeast Asia and other destinations across Asia-Pacific, with further expansion into Europe on the horizon.

Its network includes direct services connecting Singapore with key destinations in Vietnam, making it easier for football fans to travel across the region and beyond. With its distinctive red-and-yellow aircraft livery, Vietjet has become a familiar presence for travellers around the world, serving as a bridge for economic, cultural, and social connectivity between countries and communities.

As the Official Airline Partner of the ASEAN United FC events, Vietjet will connect fans and destinations across Southeast Asia through the region’s leading football competitions, kicking off with the ASEAN Hyundai Cup 2026, the jewel in the crown of ASEAN football and the region’s biggest sporting event.

Vietjet Standing Vice President, To Viet Thang, said: “Vietjet has always been committed to supporting meaningful sporting events around the world, to connect people and create positive value for communities. Our partnership with ASEAN United FC competitions reaffirms Vietjet’s commitment to connecting not only destinations but also people, cultures, and shared values across communities. Through aviation and sports, Vietjet aims to foster regional connectivity, showcase Southeast Asia to the world, and create greater opportunities for sustainable development.”

As Vietjet’s group partner, Vikki Digital Bank has been named the Official Banking Partner in Vietnam of the four ASEAN United FC events. Through this partnership, Vietjet and Vikki bring together the strengths of two prominent brands to create a more seamless customer experience, from flying to payment experiences and profitable savings for fans across Southeast Asia, one of the world’s fastest-growing travel markets.

GHA reports double-digit revenue growth

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Newsdesk

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July 16, 2026

DUBAI, UAE, 16 July 2026: Global Hotel Alliance, an alliance of independent hotel brands, has announced double-digit growth across all key performance indicators in Q2, supporting positive momentum in H1 2026.

Total revenue reached USD858 million, representing an 11% increase in Q2 2026 compared to the same period last year. Total revenue in H1 from the alliance’s portfolio increased by 17% year-on-year to USD1.8 billion, reflecting sustained demand across all regions. This performance was underpinned by a 21% increase in room nights in Q2 and a 27% year-on-year increase in H1, highlighting increased guest loyalty and longer stays.

Photo credit: GHA Discovery: Titanium member perks — Breakfast with a view.

The power of the GHA Discovery loyalty programme was evident in Q2, with cross-brand revenue — generated by members booking stays at a GHA brand other than the one where they enrolled — surging 32% year-on-year to USD132 million. This cross-brand activity represents highly incremental revenue for hotel owners, proving the value of the alliance’s shared loyalty ecosystem.

This engagement was mirrored by a 41% year-on-year increase in total D$ redemptions in Q2, as members actively used their digital rewards currency to offset stay costs and experiential purchases.

Global revenue mix

International travel remained the primary engine of growth for GHA in Q2 2026, accounting for USD476 million in total room revenue, a 12% increase year-on-year, representing 68% of total room revenue. International room nights and stays both posted strong gains, rising 21% and 22%, respectively, as long-haul journeys were particularly popular. Domestic travel also showed robust momentum, with room revenue rising 16% to US$220 million.

Members’ favourite destinations

Destinations generating the most revenue from members’ international stays in the Q2 2026 rankings were as follows: Italy took the top spot (+21% compared to Q2 2025), followed by Spain (35%), Thailand (+22%), the Netherlands (+9%), and the United Kingdom (79%).

US and the UK are top feeder markets

The US remained the largest international feeder market for GHA in Q2, generating USD86 million and accounting for 18% of international room revenue. The UK was the second-largest source market, followed by China, Germany and Australia.

Distinct travel flows

US outbound travel was diverse, with particularly strong demand for the UK, Italy, the Netherlands, and Spain. UK travellers favoured European sun and culture, especially Spain and Portugal, alongside Italy, while Thailand dominated for their long-haul travel. German travellers preferred the Netherlands, Spain, Thailand, and Italy, while Australian members preferred Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand, and Fiji. Chinese travellers enjoyed trips to Singapore, Thailand, and Malaysia among their main international destinations.

Growing membership and portfolio

Looking ahead to the second half of the year, GHA is well-positioned to maintain its growth trajectory. The 36% year-on-year increase in new member enrolments during Q2 2026 ensures a rapidly expanding audience of highly engaged travellers who will continue to fuel the alliance’s performance.

GHA continued to strengthen its global footprint during the second quarter, adding 31 new properties and surpassing the 1,000-hotel milestone in the first half of 2026. This growth was supplemented by the addition of four new member brands: Almanack Hotels, Regal Hotels, STORY Hotels, and TemptingPlaces Collection.

(Source: GHA).

ITB Asia to showcase Business Traveller Awards

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Newsdesk

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July 16, 2026

SINGAPORE, 16 July 2026: As part of a new collaboration between ITB Asia and Business Traveller, the awards ceremony will take place on 21 October 2026 in the Begonia Main Ballroom at the Sands Expo & Convention Centre.

The partnership further enhances ITB Asia’s role as Asia-Pacific’s leading platform for the travel industry, creating new opportunities for recognition, high-level networking and business engagement across leisure, corporate and MICE travel communities.

The partnership reflects a strong fit between ITB Asia’s international travel trade platform and Business Traveller’s long-standing authority in recognising excellence across the travel and hospitality industry.

By integrating one of the industry’s most recognised awards programmes into its official event programme, ITB Asia further enhances the value it offers exhibitors, buyers and visitors while strengthening engagement with the global corporate travel community.

“This partnership marks an exciting milestone for ITB Asia and reflects our continued commitment to strengthening the corporate travel segment,” said Messe Berlin Asia Pacific Executive Director Darren Seah. “Bringing the Business Traveller Global & Regional Awards to our event for the first time creates a unique opportunity to celebrate excellence while connecting industry leaders, innovators and decision-makers from across airlines, hospitality, destinations, travel technology and MICE on one international stage.”

The Business Traveller Global & Regional Awards have set the benchmark for excellence in travel and hospitality for more than 40 years.

Each award is voted on by Business Traveller’s readership of frequent travellers and overseen by an international team of travel experts, recognising outstanding performance across global and regional markets and celebrating excellence across airlines, hospitality, destinations and travel services.

For more information on the Business Traveller Global & Regional Awards 2026 and ITB Asia 2026, visit https://www.itb-asia.com/conference/business-traveller-awards-2026-in-partnership-with-itb-asia/.

Experience the wider ITB Asia 2026 programme, featuring leading exhibitors, conference sessions and networking opportunities and benefit from Early Bird rates available until 11 September 2026: ITB Asia Visitor Registration .

Secure a booth at ITB Asia 2026 to showcase your brand and connect with senior decision-makers from the corporate travel segment: ITB Asia Exhibitor Registration.

For more information on the Business Traveller Global & Regional Awards 2026 and ITB Asia 2026, visit https://www.itb-asia.com/conference/business-traveller-awards-2026-in-partnership-with-itb-asia/

Experience the wider ITB Asia 2026 programme, featuring leading exhibitors, conference sessions and networking opportunities and benefit from Early Bird rates available until 11 September 2026: ITB Asia Visitor Registration.

(Source: ITB Asia)

Radisson maps expansion in Southeast Asia

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July 16, 2026

BANGKOK, 16 July 2026: Radisson Hotel Group continues to pursue new properties across Southeast Asia — Vietnam, the Philippines, Thailand and Indonesia, according to the group’s Chief Development Officer, APAC, Ramzy Fenionos.

“Southeast Asia offers significant long-term growth potential, but success depends on being highly selective and relevant in each market. Owners are looking for brands that respond to changing guest demand and are supported by strong commercial capabilities, operational expertise, and a flexible approach to development.

Our recent openings and signings demonstrate how we are working with both established and new partners to create distinctive hotels and resorts that are right for their destinations and positioned for long-term performance.”

Vietnam

Vietnam continues to be an important growth market for Radisson Hotel Group, supported by strong demand across leisure, business and experience-led travel. In its latest market update, the group currently has 14 hotels and more than 3,100 rooms in operation and under development in the country.

Among the most significant recent milestones is the opening of the 352-key Radisson Blu Hotel, Ha Long Bay, bringing the Radisson Blu brand to one of Vietnam’s most internationally recognised destinations. Overlooking the iconic limestone karsts and emerald waters of Ha Long Bay, the hotel strengthens the group’s resort and leisure offering in northern Vietnam.

The group has also signed the 182-key Radisson Hotel Westlake Hanoi, scheduled to open in 2028. Located in Vietnam’s capital city, the property will mark an important step in the group’s urban development strategy, offering scenic lake views, approximately 800 square metres of event space and a rooftop bar overlooking West Lake.

These developments complement Radisson Hotel Group’s existing presence in destinations including Cam Ranh, Danang, Phu Quoc and Hoi An, reinforcing its ambition to grow across Vietnam’s key city and resort markets.

Philippines

The hotel group is building scale through trusted owner partnerships and new brand introductions.

In the Philippines, Radisson Hotel Group continues to build on a strong foundation of owner relationships and an increasingly diverse brand portfolio. The group’s development position comprises eight hotels with 1,559 keys in operation and 17 hotels with 3,762 keys under development, to introduce seven of its 10 brands in the country by 2030.

A cornerstone of this growth has been the group’s longstanding partnership with SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. (SMHCC), which has supported the growth of the Park Inn by Radisson brand and forms part of a shared ambition to reach 20 hotels by 2028.

The country has also marked the debut of two new hotels: LIME Resort Bohol, a member of Radisson Individuals Premier, the first Individuals Premier property in APAC, and Radisson RED Cebu Mandaue, which introduces Radisson Hotel Group’s bold lifestyle brand to the Philippines.

Located on the vibrant island of Bohol, LIME Resort Bohol is an all-villa beachfront resort offering an elevated island escape that blends modern luxury with tropical charm. Radisson RED Cebu Mandaue, located within Astra Centre, brings a fresh lifestyle hospitality experience to Cebu with 144 keys, art-inspired interiors, vibrant social spaces, creative dining, meeting facilities, an outdoor pool, and a 24-hour fitness centre.

The group’s Philippine pipeline further demonstrates the breadth of development opportunities across the market, with key projects including Radisson and Park Inn by Radisson SM Mall of Asia, a 500-key dual-branded hotel in the Mall of Asia Complex, one of Metro Manila’s most prominent commercial and lifestyle districts; Radisson RED Mactan Cebu Resort, a 138-key lifestyle beachfront resort on the shores of Mactan Island, Cebu; Fridays Boracay, A Radisson Collection Resort, a 110-key luxury lifestyle resort on Boracay’s White Beach in Station 1, set to introduce the Radisson Collection brand to one of the country’s most exclusive beachfront settings; Radisson Crown Regency Grand Paradise Resort Bohol, a 558-key resort development in Panglao planned with extensive leisure facilities and a major convention centre to support events and international group demand; and Radisson Blu Hotel and Residences Cagayan de Oro, developed in partnership with AppleOne Group, featuring 340 hotel rooms and 377 branded residences in North Mindanao’s key business hub.

Together, these projects reflect Radisson Hotel Group’s ability to grow across a diverse range of segments, from lifestyle and luxury beachfront resorts to urban, mixed-use, and branded residential developments, while supporting the Philippines’ continued growth as one of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic hospitality markets.

New opportunities in Thailand and Indonesia

In Thailand, Radisson Blu Resort, Phuket Mai Khao and Radisson Resort, Layan Phuket are now open, strengthening the group’s presence in the country, while the 118-key Radisson Serviced Apartments Rawai Phuket is scheduled to open in 2029, meeting demand for extended-stay accommodation in one of the region’s most popular island destinations

In Indonesia, the group has signed ANTA Hotel Bali Canggu, a member of Radisson Individuals, which is expected to introduce 116 serviced apartments to Bali’s popular Canggu district from 2027.

Across Southeast Asia and the Pacific, Radisson Hotel Group now has 89 hotels and more than 17000 rooms in operation and under development. This growing regional portfolio spans key gateway cities, established and emerging resort destinations, island markets and mixed-use development.

(Source: Radisson Hotel Group)

Bangkok Beerhouse inferno: Call for nationwide safety review

By

Andrew Wood

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July 16, 2026

BANGKOK, 16 July 2026: Skål International Bangkok has called for a nationwide review of fire safety standards at entertainment venues following the devastating Bangkok entertainment venue fire that claimed 32 lives.

The organisation has also expressed its deepest condolences to the families and friends of those who lost loved ones, while urging stronger enforcement of fire safety regulations and more rigorous inspections across Thailand to help ensure such a tragedy is never repeated.

Thailand’s tourism industry depends on public confidence. Every visitor has the right to expect that an evening out will end with a safe journey home. Maintaining that confidence is a shared responsibility of venue operators, government authorities and the wider tourism industry.

The fire has shocked the nation and once again highlighted the critical importance of rigorous safety standards in bars, pubs, restaurants and entertainment venues throughout Thailand.

Skål International Bangkok joins the Pattaya Nightlife Business Association in supporting calls for stronger enforcement of fire safety regulations. The Association’s President, Lisa Hamilton, recently stressed that fires at entertainment venues that result in loss of life should never happen again. Her comments deserve the support of everyone involved in Thailand’s tourism and hospitality industries.

As one of Asia’s leading tourism destinations, Thailand has built a worldwide reputation for its nightlife, warm hospitality and welcoming atmosphere. Protecting visitors, employees and residents must always remain the industry’s highest priority.

Sadly, this is not the first time the country has experienced such heartbreak.

Many will remember the Santika Nightclub fire in Bangkok during the 2009 New Year celebrations, which claimed more than 60 lives and injured over 200 people. More recently, the Mountain B Pub fire in Chonburi in 2022 claimed 26 lives. Both tragedies prompted widespread calls for reform, yet the latest disaster demonstrates that further improvements are still needed.

Skål International Bangkok believes this latest incident must become a turning point.

The association is calling upon the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), Pattaya City, provincial administrations and all relevant government agencies to strengthen inspection programmes and ensure consistent enforcement of safety regulations throughout the country.

Among the measures that deserve immediate attention are:

Regular unannounced inspections of entertainment venues during operating hours.
Strict enforcement to ensure all emergency exits remain unlocked, unobstructed, clearly marked and fully operational.
Routine inspection and certification of fire alarms, emergency lighting, sprinkler systems and fire extinguishers.
Independent inspection of electrical installations and air-conditioning systems.
Mandatory staff training in emergency evacuation procedures, together with regular fire drills.
Careful monitoring of occupancy levels to prevent overcrowding.
Greater scrutiny of venues operating under licences that may not accurately reflect their actual use.

Strong penalties, including immediate closure, for establishments failing to comply with life-safety regulations.

Skål International Bangkok also encourages venue operators to view safety not simply as a regulatory obligation but as an essential investment in their guests, employees and the long-term success of their businesses.

Visitors themselves can also play a role by taking a few moments to identify emergency exits whenever entering a crowded venue and by reporting any obvious safety concerns to management.

Skål International Bangkok President James Thurlby said: “On behalf of Skål International Bangkok, I extend our deepest condolences to the families and friends of those who have lost loved ones in this heartbreaking tragedy. Our thoughts are also with those who have been injured and with the emergency services who responded with such courage and professionalism.

Thailand has earned an international reputation as one of the world’s most welcoming tourism destinations. That reputation is built not only on warm hospitality but also on the confidence that visitors can enjoy their experience safely. Every entertainment venue has a responsibility to place the safety of its guests and employees above all else.

We commend the Pattaya Nightlife Business Association and its President, Lisa Hamilton, for speaking out so clearly on this important issue. Their call for stronger enforcement of fire safety standards deserves the full support of the tourism and hospitality industry.

This tragic incident must become a catalyst for lasting change. Regular inspections, properly maintained fire safety systems, unobstructed emergency exits, effective staff training, and firm enforcement of existing regulations should be regarded as the minimum standard, not the exception. By working together, government authorities, venue operators and the tourism industry can help ensure that such a tragedy never happens again.”

Andrew J. Wood, Vice President of Skål International Bangkok, added: “Thailand’s tourism industry has shown remarkable resilience over many decades. By strengthening safety standards today, we not only protect lives but also reinforce international confidence in Thailand as a safe, welcoming and world-class destination. Prevention is always better than regret. Every visitor should be able to enjoy Thailand’s outstanding nightlife with complete confidence that their safety is paramount.

Skål International Bangkok hopes this latest tragedy will encourage lasting cooperation between government agencies, venue operators and the wider tourism industry to create safer entertainment environments throughout Thailand.

About Skål International Bangkok
Founded in 1956, Skål International Bangkok is one of Thailand’s oldest and most respected tourism organisations. It forms part of Skål International, the world’s largest global network of tourism professionals, bringing together industry leaders in more than 80 countries to promote friendship, sustainable tourism and professional excellence.

About the Author
Andrew J. Wood is a British-born travel writer, tourism commentator and former hotel general manager with more than four decades of international hospitality experience. Based in Bangkok since 1991, he is recognised as one of Asia’s most respected travel and tourism journalists, writing extensively on hospitality, aviation, destination development and regional tourism trends.

Australia’s core tourism markets return to pre-COVID levels

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Newsdesk

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July 16, 2026

SINGAPORE, 16 July 2026: Australia welcomed close to 9.2 million visitors in the 12 months to May this year, up 9.5% on the previous year and equivalent to 98.2% of 2019 levels.

The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) released the latest overseas arrivals data for May 2026 earlier this week, showing that nine of Tourism Australia’s priority markets are back to 2019 levels.

The priority markets showing pre-COVID recovery trends comprised New Zealand, the UK, Singapore, India, South Korea, Indonesia, Vietnam, France and Italy.

In its digital newsletter, released on Wednesday, Tourism Australia confirmed arrivals from key markets in Asia delivered strong year-on-year growth, led by Japan (+21%), Malaysia (+21%), Singapore (+13%), South Korea (+5%), and China (+4%).

Meanwhile, the US saw moderate growth of 5%, while arrivals from Canada remained unchanged. In May 2026, there were 609,040 short-term visitor arrivals.

2.2 Short-term visitor arrivals, Australia – top 10 source countries(a)

Data: Australian Bureau of Statistics.

(Source: Tourism Australia)

CX extends codeshare with Iberia

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Newsdesk

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July 16, 2026

HONG KONG, 16 July 2026: Cathay Pacific is extending its coverage in Latin America with the addition of new codeshare flights to Fortaleza and Recife in Brazil, Buenos Aires in Argentina and Santo Domingo in the Dominican Republic via Madrid through its oneworld alliance partner, Iberia.

These new codeshare flights will bring Argentina and the Dominican Republic into Cathay’s codeshare network for the first time while strengthening connectivity between Hong Kong and the emerging Belt and Road region of Latin America.

Cathay Pacific currently serves six destinations across four countries in Latin America — Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo in Brazil, Mexico City and Guadalajara in Mexico, Lima in Peru and Santiago in Chile — through codeshare partnerships via gateways in Europe, North America and Oceania.

The Cathay Group currently flies to 33 destinations in Belt and Road participating countries with close to 600 flights per week, with additional destinations served through codeshare agreements.

To support these new codeshare services, starting 25 October 2026, Cathay Pacific will be adding three more flights per week on its non-stop Hong Kong-Madrid route, bringing the service to a daily frequency.

Cathay Chief Customer and Commercial Officer Lavinia Lau said: “We are delighted to welcome these new destinations in Latin America to our codeshare network. Furthermore, by increasing our Madrid service to daily, we are reinforcing our position as the only airline offering non-stop connectivity between Hong Kong and Spain. These enhancements underscore our commitment to strengthening connectivity between Asia and markets around the world, offering passengers greater choice and convenience, and enhancing Hong Kong’s status as one of the world’s leading international aviation hubs.”

Cathay Pacific’s Hong Kong-Madrid flights will operate on a staggered schedule, with the three additional flights on Monday, Thursday and Saturday providing customers with the option of a late-night departure out of Europe.

Flight schedules are as follows (all times local, subject to change and regulatory approval):

The airline’s Madrid route, first launched in 2016 with four flights per week, has become an important link between Asia and Spain for both business and leisure travellers. Cathay Pacific also operates a summer seasonal service to Barcelona with four flights per week.

(Source: Cathay Pacific)

Trip.com connects with events platform

BESarawak appoints Chief Executive Officer

Carnival Cruise Line unveils Carnival Destiny

Vietjet to sponsor ASEAN football events

GHA reports double-digit revenue growth

ITB Asia to showcase Business Traveller Awards

Radisson maps expansion in Southeast Asia

Bangkok Beerhouse inferno: Call for nationwide safety review

Australia’s core tourism markets return to pre-COVID levels

CX extends codeshare with Iberia

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