SINGAPORE, 19 December 2023: Norwegian Cruise Line has confirmed the arrival of the all-new Norwegian Viva to the shores of San Juan, Puerto Rico, for a season of Caribbean sailings through April 2024.
The cruise line’s second Prima Class ship will homeport in San Juan and offer seven-day Caribbean voyages featuring calls at Tortola, British Virgin Islands; St John’s, Antigua; Bridgetown, Barbados; Castries, St Lucia; Philipsburg, St Maarten; and St Thomas and the US Virgin Islands.
At the close of the Caribbean sailings in April 2024, Norwegian Viva will transfer to Europe to start the summer season featuring Mediterranean and Greek Isles itineraries.
THE MALDIVES, 19 December 2023: Amidst the idyllic setting at OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort, culinary virtuoso Eyck Zimmer is set to be a celebrity guest chef on 22 and 29 January 2024. Today, he announced the menu for this exclusive culinary journey, which will enchant the palates of discerning OUTRIGGER guests.
Chef Zimmer will curate two extraordinary five-course dining experiences at the resort’s Art-i-san restaurant, collaborating with the esteemed Executive Chef Christopher Long and his culinary team.
Each meticulously crafted dinner will commence with a delightful amuse bouche, featuring snail and parsley tart with black garlic and garden herbs, setting the stage for an unforgettable culinary soiree. Guests will indulge in a decadent starter of crab “Mille Feuille” with avocado, pink pepper and caviar crème fraîche, followed by an aromatic carrot soup with Indian shrimp, orange confit and lime yoghurt.
The culinary odyssey continues with local fish tartare, calamansi with crispy chicken skin and bonito flakes, offering a harmonious symphony of flavours. A spectacular main course of quail and foie gras with aromatic passion fruit polenta, toasted sesame, and ginger juice elevates the dining experience.
The grand finale will enchant taste buds with a divine dessert – coconut and lime panna, crispy banana wonton, rum and raisin syrup and vanilla ice cream, expertly crafted to leave an indelible mark on the senses. To enhance the haute cuisine experience, a skilled sommelier will guide guests through meticulously curated wine pairings on both occasions.
John Allanson, General Manager of OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort, said: “OUTRIGGER Maldives is honoured to present the sublime offerings of Chef Eyck Zimmer as his culinary accolades rank among the best in Europe, even the world.”
Hailing from Germany, Eyck Zimmer is one of the foremost luminaries in contemporary haute cuisine. His illustrious career has been acclaimed, including the prestigious Meilleur Ouvrier de Grande Bretagne in 2000, British Chef of the Year in 2006 and Portuguese Chef of the Year in 2008. The French government acknowledged his remarkable contributions to French culture and culinary excellence by bestowing the esteemed Chevalier du Mérite Agricole in 2014. Furthermore, he earned the distinguished title of Master of Culinary Arts from the Royal Academy of Culinary Arts of Great Britain.
Zimmer’s culinary journey has been punctuated by stints in some of the United Kingdom’s most renowned kitchens, including Claridge’s, The Dorchester, The Ritz and The Savoy. His culinary prowess has also left an indelible mark on five-star establishments in Switzerland, Portugal, Serbia and Germany.
Presently, Eyck Zimmer serves as the Director of Culinary at the illustrious Jockey Club in Hong Kong. His dedication to his craft is epitomised by the motto tattooed on his arm: “Born to cook. No plan B!”
In April, the resort hosted guest dinners by Eddie Scott, the MasterChef 2022 UK champion, further establishing OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort as a distinguished epicurean destination.
And now, this January, guests at the OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort will have the privilege of savouring the exquisite culinary creations of Eyck Zimmer, an icon of modern European haute cuisine. Join OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort for an unforgettable culinary journey, where the art of gastronomy meets the essence of barefoot luxury. For more information and bookings, visit OUTRIGGER.com
DUBAI, 19 Dec 2023: As a busy year of international travel draws to a close, the world’s largest international airline is revealing how passengers spent their time in flight, delving into data to dissect what exactly Emirates customers watched and listened to on journeys to and from 140 destinations around the world.
Most watched movies on ice in 2023
Customers craving top-notch entertainment are spoil for choice, with Emirates Ice offering more than 6,500 channels of on-demand movies, TV shows, music, podcasts, and even live TV to catch international news and sports. From the expansive 2,000 plus Hollywood and international movies available, and all the best movies of 2023, amongst the most watched movies by Emirates customers around the globe were; visually stunning sci-fi film, Avatar: The Way of Water, Ticket to Paradise – a rom-com starring George Clooney and Julia Roberts, and the enduringly popular action movie Top Gun: Maverick. Long haul customers worldwide also settled into box sets of movies, such as The Lord of the Rings complete trilogy and all four John Wick films.
After English language content, the top viewed international movies include two Bollywood action movies, Vikram Vedha and Bholaa, the French thriller La Syndicaliste, Korean drama Return to Seoul, and the 2023 Cannes Palme d’Or winner, Anatomie d’une chute from France. Arabic speakers tuned into Emirati film Khorfakkan – which depicts the 16th-century invasion of the city.
Kids and perhaps kids-at-heart tuned into a myriad of movies with the most popular choices in 2023 noted as Puss in Boots: The Last Wish, Tom & Jerry Cowboy Up! Teen Titans Go! & DC Superhero Girls and The Super Mario Bros. Movie.
Most binged box sets and TV on ice in 2023
On long flights, Emirates customers loved to binge a box set, with exceptionally high viewership recorded for all seasons of HBO Max’s Succession and both seasons of The White Lotus. Within the comedy genre, Emirates customers showed a preference for beloved sitcoms – Friends, Brooklyn Nine-Nine and The Big Bang Theory, while in drama – many travellers selected two historical dramas The English, and Women of the Movement, as well as suspense-filled drama Your Honour starring Bryan Cranston.
Finishing 2023 on a high with Emirates ice
For those jetting off for the holiday season and beyond, Emirates is closing out 2023 with the biggest movies of the year on ice. Customers can enjoy the top-grossing box office movie of 2023 – the fantasy-comedy blockbuster Barbie, available in French, German, Italian, Brazilian Portuguese, Japanese, Russian, Arabic and Chinese. Barbie is also available with ‘Closed Captions’ (CC) and ‘Audio Description’ (AD), offering accessibility to the visually impaired, with narration that describes what is happening on screen. Emirates offers up to 130 movies with AD and more than 250 with CC.
Action aficionados can catch Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One, a high-stakes thriller partly filmed in the UAE, available on ice in up to 8 languages, or The Equalizer 3, starring Denzel Washington. Customers can even watch the entire trilogy on ice. Adrenaline enthusiasts will enjoy Gran Turismo, based on the true story of racing driver Jann Mardenborough, a successful gamer who becomes a real-life racer. ice also has an exclusive interview with Jann Mardenborough speaking about the making of the movie in the Emirates World podcast.
Kicking off world-class entertainment on ice in 2024
Looking ahead to 2024, Emirates customers can expect to see many exciting developments on ice from exclusive new content partnerships to new next-generation inflight entertainment systems that offer memorable cinematic and personalised passenger experiences on the incoming 50-strong fleet of A350s. In January, customers can tune into Expend4bles, plus the complete box set of all four movies, The Creator – a visually impressive sci-fi from the director of Rogue One and the hit kid’s movie Paw Patrol: The Mighty Movie. In February, ice will have Oppenheimer, the award-winning film from Christopher Nolan, Priscilla – Sofia Coppola’s biographical drama about the wife of Elvis Presley, amongst many more additions to the world’s largest entertainment library in the sky.
SINGAPORE, 19 December 2023: Cruise fans prefer itineraries that offer extended stays in destinations, according to the latest insights released by MSC Cruises, the world’s third-largest cruise brand.
The Italian headquartered cruise line sheds light on five significant travel trends driving guest holiday decisions for 2024 and beyond in an end-of-the-year report.
Photo credit: MSC. MSC World Europa.
It concluded there was a heightened demand for products that offer extended stays in destinations, holidays rich in cultural experiences, upgraded adventures with touches of luxury, sustained enthusiasm for Europe’s vibrant cities, and a substantial experience-value return.
Linger for longer
Cruise travellers increasingly desire more time in their destinations, and itineraries with extended or overnight port calls are gaining popularity. This extra time ensures guests can truly explore their destinations authentically and leisurely, allowing enough time to soak up unique cultures, savour local flavours and explore everything a destination has to offer.
Cultural exploration
The new year sees a heightened eagerness among travellers to explore diverse cultures and experience new destinations. Travellers are no longer content with just visiting well-known tourist attractions; instead, they seek to experience destinations that reflect the local lifestyle.
Upgraded experiences
Globally, travellers increasingly seek more exclusive and luxurious experiences, aiming to transform their annual holiday into truly unforgettable and indulgent adventures resulting in lifelong memories.
European city escape
Travellers are more enthusiastic than ever to delve into the vibrant cities of Europe. These urban destinations offer a well-rounded appeal, featuring many historic sights, culinary experiences, diverse shopping options, renowned attractions, and immersive opportunities to engage with local culture.
Ultimate experience-value return
Cruising is gaining popularity among those who have never sailed, with more Gen-X and Millennials considering taking a cruise holiday for the first time. More and more individuals are recognising the inherent value of a cruise holiday compared to alternative land-based options.
Couples, families or groups of friends can choose itineraries containing multiple must-see destinations. Those who sail with MSC Cruises can tailor their time ashore with different shore excursions to see the best of a destination. Once back onboard, they can enjoy different dining venues, see a different full-scale theatre production each evening and relax in outstanding wellness facilities – all with unbeatable value.
About MSC Cruises MSC Cruises is the world’s third-largest cruise brand and the leader in Europe, South America, the Middle East and Southern Africa while expanding market share in the Caribbean, North America and Asia.
BANGKOK, 19 December 2023: Showcasing a lineup of luxury yachts, superyachts and private jets, the Thailand International Boat Show – A Luxury Lifestyle Event, is set to boost Phuket’s economy and high-end tourism from 11 to 14 January 2024.
Thousands of affluent yachting fans are expected to attend the show, generating a minimum of THB500 million for the Thai marine leisure and luxury lifestyle industries.
Thailand International Boat Show 2024 includes private jets.
With many boats and lifestyle brands exhibiting from around the world, organisers JAND Events aim to grow Phuket’s appeal as a destination for investment and business amongst the international community while also working closely with the Thai government and industry stakeholders to drive yacht tourism and cement Thailand’s position as Southeast Asia’s leisure marine hub.
“The show has become a platform that will drive sales and business for the marine and luxury industries and attract international investors keen to do business and live in Phuket,” commented JAND Event CEO David Hayes.
Innovations for the 2024 show include the inaugural Thailand Yachting Conference – a B2B platform for ideas exchange amongst local and international business people – and the Robb Report Thailand Best Of The Best Yachting Awards Gala – a celebration of the best yachts and brands.
By reducing the show’s environmental footprint and carbon offsetting, the Thailand International Boat Show A Luxury Lifestyle Event is the first to be carbon neutral.
In the water, Boat Lagoon Yachting will be displaying three Princess Yachts amongst several other brands at the show, with the highlight being the Princess Y95 – the largest boat showing for the first time in Thailand.
Simpson Marine has the largest in-water lineup with six boats, including a Sanlorenzo SX76, Lagoon 51 and Fairline Targa 45, amongst others, while Derani Yachts will be displaying three boats from the popular Axopar brand, as well as the striking Brabus Shadow 500 Cabin and a Greenline 40.
Other boat brokers with boats in-the-water include Asia Marine, Asia Yacht Agency, Asia Yachting, Extreme Marine (Thailand), Go Boating, Lee Marine, Leopard Catamarans, Northrop & Johnson, The Yacht Sales Co and V Yachts Asia.
The ‘Thailand International Boat Show – A Luxury Lifestyle Event’ will be held 11-14 January 2024 at Royal Phuket Marina and open daily from 1300 to 2000 except on Sunday, 14 January, when the show closes at 1900. For more information, visit www.thailandinternationalboatshow.com.
SINGAPORE, 19 December 2023: ONYX Hospitality Group will expand its serviced apartment brand, Shama, with five new properties across Asia, the hotel group announced recently.
In a press statement, the group “recognises the increasing demand for serviced apartments, particularly in the post-pandemic era, and is confident that these new additions will meet the needs of business, leisure, and the growing segment of ‘Bleisure’ travellers.”
Photo credit: ONYX. Sharma Central Hong Kong.
ONYX introduces five new Shama properties: Two in China (including Hong Kong), two in Malaysia, and one in Thailand, with opening dates for 2024. The group currently operates 16 Shama locations: six in Thailand and 10 in China (including six in Hong Kong).
Shama openings in 2024. China, including Hong Kong – Shama Hub Metro South Hong Kong, Shama Hub Qiantang; Thailand – Shama Luxe Sathorn; Malaysia – Shama Medini Malaysia, Shama Suasana Johor Bahru.
GURUGRAM India, 19 December 2023: Vistara, a joint venture between the Tata group and Singapore Airlines, inaugurated four direct weekly flights between Mumbai and Doha on 15 December.
The inaugural flight, using an A321neo aircraft, departed Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, Mumbai, at 1845 on 15 December 2023 and arrived at Hamad International Airport, Doha, at 2030.
With a consistent surge in demand for travel between India and the Middle East, Vistara is focussing on expanding its presence in the region. The airline already offers direct flights to five destinations in the Middle East, namely Abu Dhabi, Dammam, Dubai, Jeddah and Muscat.
Vistara chief executive officer Vinod Kannan said: “Based on the response to Vistara’s Middle Eastern routes, we are confident that the launch of operations to Doha will further strengthen our footprint in the region. Doha – an essential commercial hub and home to a large Indian diaspora – is Vistara’s 50th destination and the sixth in the Middle East. We are excited to bring the Best Airline in India and Southern Asia to Doha with direct connectivity from Mumbai.”
About Vistara TATA SIA Airlines Limited, known by the brand name Vistara, is a 51:49 joint venture between Tata Sons Private Limited and Singapore Airlines Limited (SIA).
SINGAPORE, 19 December 2023: IndiGo will expand connectivity between India and Thailand with a 25% increase in weekly flights, including the resumption of flights between Bengaluru and Phuket.
The expansion starts with IndiGo introducing additional flights on the Mumbai-Phuket route, effective 5 January 2024, and reintroducing Bengaluru-Phuket flights on 28 February 2024.
Photo credit: IndiGo. Travel demand for Thailand picks up.
In a press statement, the airline noted that the new direct flights will improve travel options for both leisure and business travellers. Six flights weekly will operate on both routes from Mumbai and Bengaluru to Phuket.
The move was timed to meet increased travel demands from customers booking year-end holidays and the recent introduction of visa-free entry to Thailand.
IndiGo will now operate 56 weekly flights from five airports in India to Thailand, including the new additions. Travellers can also connect with IndiGo’s 117-strong destination network across India and the world.
IndiGo head of global sales Vinay Malhotra said: “We are thrilled to announce the addition of new flights connecting India to Thailand, reinforcing our commitment to increasing global connectivity from India. Thailand has always been amongst the sought-after destinations known for its tropical beaches, shopping entertainment, and ornate temples. With the addition of these flights, IndiGo will connect India to Thailand 56 times a week, taking our weekly flights between Mumbai and Phuket to 13 and Bengaluru and Phuket to six.”
KUCHING, 18 December 2023: Visitors to Sarawak can enjoy a free city walking tour with guides who know the city like the back of their hand.
Kuching’s free walking tour is a fascinating way to explore the city centre and waterfront of this compact riverside city packed with heritage and cultural attractions hidden away in quaint lanes right in the heart of the city.
Free guided walkabout in Kuching’s heritage district
Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) highlights the walking tour on its Facebook page, ‘Sarawak Travel, Malaysia, Borneo, ‘ inviting visitors to dive into Kuching’s rich history and vibrant culture by joining the city’s Kuching Free Walking Tour.
Paradesa Borneo organises the tour, which is led by expert guides and for 90 minutes explores the nooks and crannies of the heritage heart of Kuching. It starts with the city’s famous waterfront and then embarks on a jaunt around the historical quarters of old bazaars.
Walking rather than sitting in a taxi or tour bus allows you to gain a new perspective and insights that reveal local secrets as you mingle with residents in cool neighbourhood spots.
The free tour departs every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 1600. The meeting point is the office of Paradesa Borneo.
Group size is limited to 12 persons. It requires a level of fitness to walk unaided on a tour that takes 90 minutes.
You will need to book your spot 24 hours in advance. Register here: https://rb.gy/fsd2wt
The free walking tour is available for three months: December 2023 to 28 February 2024.
Tour Highlights 1. Explore the city’s waterfront 2. Visit Kuching’s old bazaars 3. Local tips 4. Socialise at a funky spot 5. Chat with local experts 6. Travel planning assistance
SINGAPORE, 18 December 2023: Jetstar Airways (JQ) is set to boost international capacity to Australia from Singapore, Bangkok and Phuket in 2024 – launching new flights to Perth and additional flights to Melbourne.
On sale since last week, the fares airline confirmed the new direct flights to Perth were part of a major expansion of their Western Australian operations.
From August 2024*, Jetstar will start flying up to six times a week between Singapore and Perth and operate up to four weekly return flights from Phuket to Perth. From September 2024*, Jetstar will also begin flying up to four days per week between Bangkok and Perth.
The flights will be operated using Jetstar’s fuel-efficient Airbus A321neo LRs (NEO), with up to four of the new aircraft to be based at Perth Airport, creating more than 330,000 new low-fare seats between Perth and Southeast Asia annually.
In addition, Jetstar will increase direct flights to Melbourne from Singapore, Bangkok, and Phuket from 17 June 2024 during peak times.
Operated by its fleet of Boeing 787-8 aircraft, the airline will fly: • Singapore to Melbourne: up to daily return flights (currently up to 6 per week); • Bangkok to Melbourne: up to five return flights per week (currently up to 3 per week); • Phuket to Melbourne: up to five return flights per week (currently up to 3 per week).
To celebrate the announcement of the new routes, Jetstar will launch a “Hello Perth” sale from Tuesday, 19 December, with one-way fares from: • SGD 116^ Singapore to Perth; • THB 3935^ Bangkok to Perth; • THB 4143^ Phuket to Perth.
*Subject to government and regulatory approval
^Sale fares are available on jetstar.com from 1000 (SGT) on Tuesday, 19 December 2023, until 2359 (SGT) on Friday, 22 December, unless sold out prior. Travel dates vary per route. T&Cs apply.
