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Why Helsinki should be on every art lover’s list

HELSINKI, 3 September 2026: Following a record-breaking edition that attracted more than half a million visitors, the Helsinki Biennial returns in summer 2027, inviting visitors to discover world-class contemporary art across the historic island of Vallisaari, EsplanadePark,k and HAM Helsinki Art Museum. 

The biennial has now revealed its theme, ‘Unknowns’, and announced the first 12 participating artists.

Photographer: HAM / Maija Toivanen. Alicja Kwade’s Big Be-Hide (2022) recalls the very first Helsinki Biennial, held in 2021.

Helsinki Biennial combines contemporary art with nature, maritime landscapes and vibrant city life in a way that is distinctly Helsinki. 

Located just a short ferry ride from the city centre, Vallisaari Island offers visitors the chance to discover contemporary art amidst wild island nature, historic fortifications and panoramic views across the Baltic Sea. The experience continues in Esplanade Park, Helsinki’s iconic urban promenade, before leading visitors to HAM Helsinki Art Museum, one of Finland’s leading contemporary art institutions. United by the theme Unknowns, the fourth edition invites audiences to explore curiosity, imagination and the possibilities that emerge when we embrace what we do not yet understand.

For travellers seeking culture, design, architecture, food and nature in a single destination, Helsinki Biennial offers from 6 June to 19 September 2027 a compelling reason to visit the Finnish capital during its brightest and most vibrant season. 

International artists, new commissions

Helsinki Biennial 2027 will bring together approximately 45 artists and artist groups from Finland and around the world. The first announced artists are Ari Bayuaji (Indonesia/Canada), Tara Donovan (United States), Laurent Grasso (France), Marguerite Humeau (France/United Kingdom), Matias Karsikas (Finland), Britta Marakatt-Labba (Sápmi/Sweden), Ragnhild May (Denmark), Yoshitomo Nara (Japan), Josefina Nelimarkka (Finland), Tawatchai Puntusawasdi (Thailand), Anna Retulainen (Finland) and Jakob Kudsk Steensen (Denmark). Further participants will be announced in the coming months.

Exploring the Unknowns

Curated by Mami Kataoka and Arja Miller, Helsinki Biennial 2027 is built around the theme Unknowns. Rather than presenting clear answers, the biennial invites audiences to engage with mystery, wonder and uncertainty through art. Drawing inspiration from fields as diverse as astronomy, geology, science, mythology and spirituality, the biennial encourages visitors to imagine new ways of understanding both the visible and invisible worlds around us.

With approximately 568,000 visits recorded in 2025, the Helsinki Biennial has become one of the Nordic region’s contemporary art events and an increasingly important attraction for international visitors. Bringing together internationally acclaimed artists, cultural professionals, and audiences from around the world, the biennial offers a compelling reason to experience Helsinki in summer.

The event reflects what makes Helsinki unique: the opportunity to encounter contemporary art across a historic island, vibrant public spaces, and a leading art museum, all within easy reach of one another.

Art that leaves a lasting mark on Helsinki

A visit to the Helsinki Biennial offers more than a temporary exhibition experience. Several artworks commissioned for previous editions have become permanent additions to Helsinki’s art collection, creating a growing cultural legacy across the city. For visitors, this means that each edition leaves a lasting mark on Helsinki, extending the experience well beyond the summer of the biennial itself.

Esplanade Park 
  • Helsinki Biennial 2027
  • Unknowns
  • 6 June – 19 September 2027
  • Vallisaari Island, Esplanade Park and HAM Helsinki Art Museum
  • Media Day
  • 2 June 2027
  • Professional Preview Days
  • 3 – 6 June 2027

For more information, visit: www.helsinkibiennial.fi 

(Source: Helsinki Partners)

Asia Pacific Airlines July 2026 traffic results

KUALA LUMPUR, 3 September 2026: Preliminary July 2026 traffic figures released today by the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA) showed further moderation in international passenger markets. Higher air fares continued to weigh on demand among price-sensitive leisure travellers. 

Regional travel was also affected by further rationalisation of network operations in the industry, in response to persistently elevated jet fuel prices and airspace restrictions associated with the Middle East conflict.

Against this backdrop, Asia Pacific airlines recorded a 1.3% decline in international passengers carried to a combined total of 32.4 million in July. Demand, as measured in revenue passenger kilometres, remained firm, increasing by 1.1% year-on-year, buoyed by encouraging growth on longer-haul routes. Available seat capacity edged 0.5% higher, resulting in a 0.5 percentage point increase in the average international passenger load factor to 82.4%.

Air cargo markets posted another month of growth, albeit at a more moderate pace, as strong demand for technology products was partly offset by softer demand for consumer goods. International air cargo demand, as measured in freight tonne kilometres (FTK), grew by 1.1% year-on-year, while offered freight capacity expanded by 1.8%. Consequently, the average international freight load factor declined by 0.4 percentage points to 61.3% for the month.

Commenting on the results, AAPA Director General, Wong Hong, said: “Asian airlines carried a combined 225.7 million international passengers in the first seven months of the year, 2.5% more than in the corresponding period last year. Longer-haul markets in particular saw encouraging growth, supporting the overall increase in passenger demand.

“At the same time, July saw jet fuel prices averaging USD143 per barrel, a 52% jump compared with the same month last year, driven by the conflict in the Middle East. Consequently, higher air fares weighed on demand, particularly on shorter-haul routes, with the impact more pronounced in the price-sensitive leisure sector.”

Wong Hong added: “The cargo business segment continued to benefit from growth in export activity from major regional manufacturing hubs. Overall, international air cargo demand rose by a robust 6.2% year-on-year during the first seven months of the year, although the pace of growth has become more moderate in recent months.”

Looking ahead, he said: “Underlying demand conditions remain supportive, underpinned by continued growth in regional economies, though momentum has moderated. Persistently high fuel prices, together with the weakening of several Asian currencies against the US dollar, continue to add to airline cost pressures, while rising inflation also weighs on demand. Against this backdrop, carriers continue to align capacity with demand, while retaining the flexibility to respond to changing market conditions.”

(Source: AAPA)

Air India Express presents new uniforms

MUMBAI, 3 September 2026: Air India Express has rolled out new uniforms for its cabin crew and frontline staff across its network, introducing a fresh new look for the teams who welcome, assist and engage with guests every day. 

Launched from 1 September, the uniforms are being introduced across cabin crew, airport services, aviation security, and flight operations teams, reflecting the airline’s evolving identity and its ongoing transformation of the guest experience.

The refreshed uniforms extend Air India Express’ Tales of India initiative beyond its aircraft and into everyday guest interactions. Through the initiative, the airline has introduced distinctive aircraft tail art inspired by India’s indigenous art forms, crafts and cultural heritage. 

Drawing from the same inspiration, the uniforms incorporate design elements influenced by Tamil Nadu’s Kanjeevaram, Himachal Pradesh’s Pattu, Gujarat’s Patola, Assam’s Gamosa and Madhya Pradesh’s Bagh. The design reflects the meaningful connections Air India Express creates across regions, cultures and communities, while contemporary silhouettes inspired by the traditional kurti, complemented by tailored jackets, scarves and pocket squares, bring together Indian sensibilities and modern design.

Air India Express Group Head of Marketing, E-Commerce and Loyalty Sunil Suresh said: “Our frontline teams shape some of the most memorable moments in every guest’s journey, and these new uniforms are designed to reflect their energy, professionalism and warmth. More than a refreshed look, they represent how Air India Express has evolved over the past few years, creating a consistent experience across our aircraft, airports and onboard service, while staying rooted in the warmth and vibrance that define us. Inspired by the spirit of our Tales of India initiative, the uniforms thoughtfully bring together cultural authenticity, comfort and functionality for our teams.”

Anchored in Air India Express’ vibrant Xpress Blue palette and accented with its signature Xpress Orange, the uniforms create a visual connection with the airline’s brand and guest experience. The colour palette reflects the airline’s energetic personality while reinforcing a cohesive look and feel across touchpoints.

About Air India Express
Air India Express is A Tata Enterprise, operating over 500 daily flights that connect 48 domestic and 16 international destinations across South, Southeast and West Asia. The airline has a fleet of over 100 Boeing 737s and Airbus A320 aeroplanes. 

(Source: Air India Express)

MATTA and Alibaba join forces

KUALA LUMPUR, 3 September 2026: The Malaysian Association of Tour & Travel Agents (MATTA) and Alibaba Cloud, a global provider of cloud computing and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to explore comprehensive collaboration in accelerating digital transformation, AI adoption and smart tourism solutions within Malaysia’s travel and tourism industry.

The collaboration brings together MATTA’s extensive network of travel and tourism industry players with Alibaba Cloud’s expertise in cloud computing, AI and digital technologies. The partnership aims to help tourism businesses become more innovative, competitive, and digitally ready in an increasingly technology-driven global tourism landscape.

Under the MoU, both parties will explore a range of initiatives, including adopting AI-powered digital solutions among MATTA members, capacity-building and training programmes, SME digital enablement, tourism marketing and promotion, smart tourism initiatives, industry research and development, and participation in industry events and knowledge-sharing programmes.

A key focus of the collaboration will be encouraging MATTA members, particularly small and medium-sized travel enterprises (SMEs), to leverage emerging technologies such as AI, cloud computing, data analytics, e-commerce and cybersecurity to enhance operational efficiency, customer engagement, marketing capabilities and overall business competitiveness.

The collaboration will also explore Alibaba Cloud’s AI technologies, including its proprietary AI model Qwen and all-in-one workplace AI agent QwenWork, to support the digitalisation of travel businesses and develop practical AI applications relevant to the tourism sector. These technologies could support tourism businesses across areas such as customer engagement, productivity, content creation and personalised digital experiences, helping them translate AI capabilities into practical business applications.

MATTA and Alibaba Cloud will also explore opportunities to jointly organise workshops, seminars, certification programmes and other knowledge-sharing initiatives to equip tourism industry professionals with the skills and knowledge required to navigate the rapidly evolving digital economy.

The MoU also provides a framework for both parties to explore tourism marketing initiatives through Alibaba’s digital ecosystem and platforms, including potential cross-border digital marketing opportunities to promote Malaysian tourism products and destinations to international travellers.

MATTA President Nigel Wong said the collaboration reflects MATTA’s commitment to ensuring that Malaysia’s travel and tourism industry remains future-ready and able to harness the opportunities presented by AI and digital technologies.

“Digital transformation is no longer an option but an important component of the future competitiveness of the travel and tourism industry. Through this collaboration with Alibaba Cloud, MATTA hopes to provide our members with greater access to knowledge, technology and practical solutions that can help them improve productivity, enhance customer experiences and grow their businesses.”

He added that the partnership would also support MATTA’s broader efforts to promote innovation and technology adoption across the tourism ecosystem.

Choong Hon Keat, Deputy General Manager of Southeast Asia Region, General Manager of Malaysia, Alibaba Cloud Intelligence, said:

“AI and cloud technologies are creating new opportunities for tourism businesses to improve operational efficiency, enhance customer engagement and deliver more personalised digital experiences. Through our collaboration with MATTA, we look forward to bringing our technology capabilities and expertise closer to its extensive network of members, particularly SMEs, and supporting them in exploring practical ways to harness AI for innovation and growth.”

The collaboration will initially focus on exploring and developing mutually beneficial initiatives, with specific programmes and projects to be further agreed upon by both parties from time to time.

Through this partnership, MATTA and Alibaba Cloud aim to contribute towards building a more digitally capable, innovative and technology-driven Malaysian tourism industry, while creating new opportunities for travel businesses to compete effectively in the evolving global tourism landscape.

(Source: MATTA)

Amazon Explorer’s inaugural sailings

SINGAPORE, 3 September 2026: andBeyond confirms the recent launch of Amazon Explorer, a 74-metre expedition yacht bringing the brand’s immersive approach to wilderness travel to the Peruvian Amazon. 

Bookings are now open for departures starting December 2026.

Photo credit: Amazon Explorer.

The 74-metre yacht accommodates just 32 guests. andBeyond Amazon Explorer offers three-, four- and seven-night journeys across both high- and low-water seasons, revealing the rainforest as its landscapes transform throughout the year. 

The vessel comprises 12 luxury suites, two superior suites and an 80 sqm deluxe suite. It also features an Explorer Centre, River Retreat, a wellness centre, a gym, a signature shop, a sundeck, and a Pisco Bar.

Beyond the yacht, guests can explore through guided skiff excursions, rainforest walks, kayaking, night safaris and community encounters, with potential sightings of pink river dolphins, three-toed sloths, squirrel monkeys, scarlet macaws, caiman and even the elusive jaguar.

Rates begin from USD5,190 per person sharing, per itinerary, inclusive of accommodation, meals, selected beverages, guided excursions and community visits, among other inclusions.

Bookings are now open for departures from December 2026, with savings of up to 20% on eligible voyages through the Amazon Explorer early bird offer.

As the second luxury expedition yacht in andBeyond’s growing portfolio, the Amazon Explorer introduces a fresh perspective on rainforest discovery, combining immersive exploration, longer time on the river, and expert interpretation. 

All journeys begin in Iquitos, followed by a transfer to Nauta, where guests embark on the yacht. During high-water periods, the rainforest opens access to flooded forests and remote waterways. At the same time, low-water seasons reveal a different side of the Amazon, showcasing the remarkable way in which the ecosystem adapts with the changing seasons.

Guided by carefully selected experts from the region who are trained to andBeyond’s guiding standards, a low number of guests per guide allows excursions to be tailored to individual interests and the day’s changing conditions.

Designed and built for andBeyond by SIMA Shipyard, the vessel brings a contemporary, refined approach to expedition travel on the Amazon, with thoughtful design details that create a seamless connection between the guest experience and the extraordinary environment through which it travels.

With bookings now open for departures from December 2026, the andBeyond Amazon Explorer invites travellers to take advantage of the Amazon Explorer Early Bird Offer, savings of up to 20% available on eligible voyages. The experience can also be combined with journeys to Machu Picchu, Patagonia and the Galapagos Islands.

About andbeyond
andBeyond creates luxury adventures in Africa, Asia, South America and Antarctica. With an extensive portfolio of lodges, camps and yachts, it delivers immersive experiences that connect guests to the beauty, culture and spirit of each destination.

Thomas Cook increases sales outlets in Chennai

MUMBAI, 3 September 2026: Driven by strong travel demand in Chennai, Thomas Cook (India) Limited has opened a new sales outlet in Manapakkam, Chennai. 

The new outlet expands Thomas Cook India’s network to 10 locations in the city and 16 across Tamil Nadu State, enhancing access to its comprehensive range of travel services.

Photo credit: Thomas Cook India.

Manapakkam is emerging as a prominent residential and IT hub in Chennai. With its expanding residential and corporate ecosystem, Manapakkam has emerged as an important catchment for a diverse and growing base of travellers.

The new outlet will cater to travellers from Manapakkam and its neighbouring catchments across diverse customer segments — families, couples, Young India’s Millennials and GenZ, business travellers and GenS (seniors). 

Thomas Cook’s Manapakkam outlet offers end-to-end travel services: 
International and domestic holidays (group tours, personalised holidays, and cruises); 
Value-added services such as travel Insurance. 

Additionally, Thomas Cook’s AI booking platform helps customers plan personalised vacations in real time by checking availability and making reservations in minutes.

Chennai/Tamil Nadu Travel Trends

Year-round travel: Chennai travellers are increasingly leveraging public holidays and weekends to take multiple short breaks and mini-cations throughout the year, extending travel beyond traditional holiday seasons.

Growing demand for spiritual tourism: Pilgrimage and spiritual travel continue to gain momentum, with Thomas Cook India strengthening its Spiritual Tourism portfolio to cater to this growing segment. Key destinations include Kailash Mansarovar, Char Dham, Puri, Kashi, Ujjain and Ayodhya.

Fresh new destinations: Chennai travellers are displaying growing interest in destinations such as the Philippines, Cambodia, Laos, Georgia, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Morocco, South Africa, Kenya, Iceland, Antarctica and Seychelles. Cruise holidays and charter flight-based holidays are also gaining traction.

Demand for unique experiences: Travellers are increasingly seeking differentiated, immersive experiences while exploring emerging destinations beyond conventional itineraries.

Top destinations

Chennai is a strong source market generating travel bookings for trips to the following domestic and overseas destinations.

International: Europe’s Switzerland, France, Austria, Italy, Spain; the Scandinavian countries of Finland, Norway and Sweden; Eastern European destinations such as the Czech Republic and Hungary; Australia and New Zealand; South America; Vietnam, Indonesia, China, Japan and South Korea; as well as Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore.

Domestic and Indian subcontinent: Kashmir-Leh, Northeast India, West Bengal, Rajasthan, Kerala, Sri Lanka and Andaman

(Source: Thomas Cook India)

25hours Hotel lands in Bangkok

BANGKOK, 3 September 2026: Ennismore, a lifestyle hospitality company, in partnership with Thailand’s Central Pattana, announces the signing of 25hours Hotel Bangkok, the brand’s first property in Thailand. 

Scheduled to open in Q1 2029 as part of CenTRal cENtrAL, Bangkok’s landmark new mixed-use destination, the hotel will introduce 25hours’ distinctive approach to one of the city’s most exciting new urban developments.

Photo credit: Central Pattana.

Located in Siam Square, Bangkok’s epicentre of youth culture, creativity and constant reinvention, 25hours Hotel Bangkok will open as a meeting point for seekers and dreamers alike. 

Positioned a short distance from Chulalongkorn University and the skytrain at Siam Station, the hotel forms part of CenTRal cENtrAL, Central Pattana’s next-generation mixed-use destination representing The Future of Siam Square. 

The 345-room hotel will embody the brand’s distinctive approach to story- and art-led hospitality, drawing inspiration from Bangkok’s creative spirit and layered urban identity. 

Throughout the hotel, the design narrative celebrates Siam Square’s unique character. Inspired by its maze of independent boutiques, pop-ups, creative studios, as well as the district’s Art Deco-influenced architectural legacy

Ennismore Chief Operations Officer Sylvain Pasdeloup said: “Bangkok is a city of contrasts, creativity and constant motion – exactly the kind of place where 25hours thrives. With this project, we’re creating more than a hotel; we’re shaping a living, breathing space where culture, community and creativity come together. It will reflect the spirit of Siam Square – a place for discovery, expression and exchange, while marking an exciting next step in the continued growth of Ennismore and 25hours Hotels across Asia.”

Central Pattana Head of Hotels and Alternative Investments, Phoom Chirathivat said: “Siam Square has always been a truly special part of Bangkok — a place where generations of Thai people have come together to discover, connect and express themselves. We are delighted to partner with Ennismore to bring 25hours Hotels to this iconic neighbourhood, creating a new destination that celebrates the creativity, energy and unique character of Siam Square while welcoming guests from around the world.”

25hours continues its expansion across Europe, the Middle East and Asia Pacific, with a growing portfolio of hotels in culturally rich urban destinations. Each new opening reflects the brand’s commitment to creating immersive, story-driven experiences inspired by the character of their surroundings, where bold design, local culture and community come together. The signing also reinforces Ennismore’s continued growth across Asia, as it expands its portfolio of lifestyle brands and destinations throughout the region.

(Source: Ennismore)

Thai AirAsia ushers in Silver Care for seniors

BANGKOK, 3 September 2026: Thai AirAsia rolls out “Silver Care,” a dedicated service designed to ensure senior travellers enjoy a more comfortable and convenient journey on all domestic flights across Thailand. 

Guests aged 60 and above can now unlock exclusive Silver Care perks — including Priority Check-in, Priority Baggage claim, and a Seat Together service (subject to standard seat availability) — all at no extra cost. Present a valid ID card at the check-in counter to access these privileges for the eligible senior guest and one travel companion.

Photo credit: Thai AirAsia. Seniors enjoy Silver Care on Thai AirAsia domestic flights.

“Thai AirAsia is constantly elevating our service quality to meet the needs of all our guests,” said Thai AirAsia Head of Commercial 

Tansita Akrarittipirom. “Our senior travellers, aged 60 and up, are a highly valued group who continually place their trust in AirAsia. We introduced the Silver Care programme to make travelling smoother for both our senior guests and their families, ensuring that when they fly with us, they experience our utmost care and attention.

“To support the Silver Care initiative, we have conducted specialised training for our ground staff and cabin crew, empowering them to better understand and assist our senior guests,” Tansita added. “Coupled with these new travel perks on all domestic flights, Silver Care launches in time for the bustling year-end travel season. With dedicated channels and specialised services ready to go, senior travellers and their families can enjoy total peace of mind from the moment they arrive at the airport to the minute they reach their destination.”

For guests departing from Don Mueang International Airport (DMK), the Silver Care experience begins with a breezy check-in at the dedicated Counter 10J in Domestic Terminal 2. 

All seniors need to do is keep an eye out for the Silver Care signage and friendly ground Allstars who are ready to assist.

At check-in, checked luggage will be tagged with a special priority label, ensuring swift, hassle-free baggage claim at the destination airport.

(Source: Thai AirAsia)

Royal Cliff Hotels Group supports local community

PATTAYA, 2 September 2026: As part of its long-standing commitment to supporting the local community, the Royal Cliff Hotels Group management team continues its annual tradition of visiting charitable organisations, including the Pattaya Redemptorist School for the Blind.

Led by Managing Director and CEO, Khun Panga Vathanakul and Khun Vitanart Vathanakul, Royal Cliff’s talented culinary team prepared a delicious lunch for the children and staff. In addition, the Royal Cliff proudly presented a donation of THB100,000 to support the school’s invaluable work and help enhance the lives of the children in its care.

Adding to the joy of the occasion, the Royal Cliff was delighted to welcome one of Thailand’s beloved actresses, Khun Punyaporn Poonpipat, together with her fan club. They treated the children to a variety of sweet delights, including refreshing Korean bingsu, creating a day filled with laughter, happiness, and unforgettable memories.

“The Royal Cliff Hotels Group extends its heartfelt gratitude to the children and staff for their incredibly warm welcome and the beautiful songs they performed. Their courage, resilience, and unwavering positivity in the face of life’s challenges inspire us all. We left with grateful hearts and a renewed appreciation for the strength, hope, and joy they share with everyone around them,” said Khun Vitanart Vathanakul, CEO of Royal Cliff Hotels Group. “Royal Cliff Hotels Group believes that even the smallest act of kindness can make a meaningful difference. Together, we can help build a brighter future for our community.” 

One of Thailand’s beloved actresses, Khun Punyaporn Poonpipat, delighted the children with a special speech, filling the day with smiles, laughter and happiness.

Perched atop a 64-acre private estate with breathtaking views of the Gulf of Thailand, the Royal Cliff Hotels Group boasts four award-winning hotels that welcome charming travellers from all corners of the world. The resort offers a world of exceptional experiences through thoughtfully curated promotions and packages. Guests are encouraged to book directly with Royal Cliff to enjoy the best available rates and exclusive value-added privileges. To secure the premium experience you deserve, visit www.royalcliff.com, call our Reservations team at (+66) 38 250 421 ext. 2732, or email [email protected].

Khun Punyaporn Poonpipat, together with her wonderful fan club, generously treated the children to a variety of sweet delights, creating a joyful and memorable experience for everyone.

For more information about the Royal Cliff Hotels Group CSR programme, visit https://www.royalcliff.com/main/green-program-csr/  or follow Royal Cliff Hotels Group on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/royalcliff. 

(Source: Your Stories — Royal Cliff Hotels Group)

Emirates’ Mauritius flights gain premium economy

PORT LOUIS, Mauritius, 2 September 2026: Emirates has introduced its  Premium Economy cabin on two of its three daily flights between Mauritius and Dubai since 1 September 2026.

Premium Economy is available on flights EK703/704, operated by Emirates’ A380, and EK709/710, operated by a retrofitted Boeing 777. 

Both widebody aircraft will operate in three-class configurations, offering more options and choice to suit travellers’ preferences when booking flights to and from Mauritius.

Emirates’ flagship A380 aircraft operating flights EK703/704 feature 76 Business Class seats, 56 seats in Premium Economy and 437 Economy Class seats, while the Boeing 777 operating EK709/710 offers 38 Business Class seats, 24 Premium Economy seats and 214 Economy Class seats.

Emirates has been operating in Mauritius since 2002.

(Source: Emirates)