GURUGRAM, India 26 March 2026: Star Alliance opened a new Star Connection Centre (SCC) at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), its ninth centre worldwide.
With more than 350,000 passengers connecting between Star Alliance member airlines at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) each year, it is one of the Alliance’s most critical global transfer hubs.
Photo credit: Star Alliance.
Designed to support passengers with tight connections between two Star Alliance member airline flights, SCC proactively identifies customers at risk of missing their onward journey due to their delayed incoming flight and expedites them to their next flight.
For Star Alliance passengers, the experience is simple: a smooth and seamless connection. Behind the scenes, however, teams across Star Alliance member airlines work together to make that possible. Dedicated agents monitor transfer windows using specialised software and step in to coordinate support — meeting passengers at the arrival gate and guiding them swiftly to their next flight.
Star Alliance has operated Connection Centres for more than a decade, supporting both passenger and baggage transfers at key hubs worldwide. In addition to Los Angeles, Star Connection Centres are located in Brussels (BRU), Chicago (ORD), Frankfurt (FRA) and Toronto (YYZ). At the same time, dedicated baggage-focused SCCs operate in Houston (IAH), Newark (EWR), Washington Dulles (IAD) and San Francisco (SFO).
At present, 16 Star Alliance member airlines serve Los Angeles: Air Canada, Air China, Air New Zealand, ANA, Asiana Airlines, Austrian, Avianca, Copa Airlines, EVA Air, LOT Polish Airlines, Lufthansa, Singapore Airlines, SWISS, TAP Air Portugal, Turkish Airlines and United. Together, they operate more than 2,000 weekly flights to over 80 destinations across more than 20 countries.
SEOUL, South Korea, 26 March 2026: Sofitel Ambassador Seoul has been accepted into Virtuoso’s portfolio of luxury travel partners, comprising 2,500 preferred suppliers in 100 countries.
Inclusion in Virtuoso will present new sales and marketing opportunities to the network’s luxury travel advisors. Virtuoso agencies worldwide sell an average of USD35 billion annually, making the network a significant player in luxury travel.
Photo credit: Sofitel Ambassador Seoul.
Sofitel Ambassador Seoul joins Virtuoso’s collection of luxury hotels, resorts, cruise lines, airlines, tour operators and other travel entities worldwide.
These partners, which specialise in client service and experiences, provide superior offerings, rare opportunities and exceptional value for Virtuoso clients. Sofitel Ambassador Seoul’s acceptance into Virtuoso gives it direct relationships with the world’s leading leisure travel agencies in North and Latin America, the Caribbean, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Africa and the Middle East.
Sofitel Ambassador Seoul, in Seoul’s Gangnam district, features 403 rooms and suites, 160 serviced residences, and five restaurants and bars overlooking Seokchon Lake.
SINGAPORE, 26 March 2026: T’way Air, Korea’s low-cost carrier, announced spring travel deals to Korea available through March 31, making it easier for travellers to plan trips to Korea through October 24, 2026.
T’way Air currently operates eight routes including Kaohsiung–Busan, due to launch on 29 March: Taipei (Songshan)–Seoul (Gimpo), Taipei (Taoyuan)–Jeju, Taipei (Taoyuan)–Daegu, Taichung–Seoul (Incheon), Kaohsiung–Seoul (Gimpo), Kaohsiung–Seoul (Incheon), Kaohsiung–Jeju, and Kaohsiung–Busan.
The following offers are available through 31 March
Up to 12% Off Promo Code: enter MAR26 when booking, for travel through October 24, 2026.
Regular Coupon (up to TWD400 off): bookings of TWD4,000 or more, for travel through October 24, 2026.
Regular Coupon (up to TWD800 off): bookings of TWD8,000 or more, for travel through October 24, 2026.
TWD500 Early Bird Coupon: bookings of TWD4,000 or more, for travel May 1– October 24, 2026.
TWD1,000 Early Bird Coupon: bookings of TWD8,000 or more, for travel May 1– October 24, 2026.
Seoul offers a wide range of cultural attractions and modern city experiences, while Daegu and Busan provide additional regional options with distinctive local character. Jeju is also accessible via direct flights from Taiwan, offering travellers greater flexibility when planning multi-city itineraries.
For full flight schedules, coupon terms, and booking details, visit the airline’s website. T’way Air currently serves 60 destinations worldwide and continues to expand its network.
About T’way Air T’way Air Co Ltd is a South Korea-based low-cost carrier (LCC) providing air travel services since 2010. The airline operates a fleet that includes Boeing 737-800 and 737 MAX 8 aircraft, as well as Airbus A330, A320 and Boeing 777-300ER aircraft, serving customers across East Asia, Southeast Asia, and Central Asia, as well as Oceania, Europe and North America.
LONDON, 26 March 2026: Cash still beats cards for travellers, as over a quarter buy currency a month in advance, the Travelex Travel Money Insights Report finds.
A leading foreign exchange company, Travelex, released its inaugural Travelex Travey Money Insights Report last week, which suggests more than two-thirds of global travellers choose to take cash when they travel.
While domestic cash usage may be decreasing, the report found that, on average, 69% of travellers still use cash when overseas, higher than card usage (whether debit, credit, or pre-paid) in almost every region surveyed.
The majority of travellers also travel with a card, and the combination of cash and card gives travellers peace of mind and safety.
Travellers are also shifting decisively toward pre-trip planning, with most purchasing travel money weeks in advance.
“Domestic cash transactions may be falling, but in the travel money market, cash firmly remains king. Cash is vital for small items like tipping and taxis, whilst many travellers have reservations over cards being accepted and potential fees,” said Travelex’s Chief Executive Officer Philip Bowcock.
Travelex’s Travel Money Insights Report highlights the growing shift in how travellers acquire travel money, moving away from traditional in-trip purchases at the point of departure towards pre-trip planning and acquisition in the weeks and months before travel. On average, just 6% of those surveyed say they usually purchase their travel money on the day of travel.
“Travellers who traditionally relied on airport stores to acquire cash last minute are today far more inclined to do so in the weeks leading up to their trip — be that when they do their holiday shopping, or through alternative channels such as home delivery or pre-order click-and-collect,” added Bowcock. “Airport stores are still a key resource for many, but the market has shifted.”
The report coincides with Travelex’s 50th anniversary, the company having grown to become one of the market’s leading and most trusted foreign exchange brands since 1976.
About Travelex Founded in 1976, Travelex has grown to become one of the market-leading specialist providers of foreign exchange products, solutions, and services, operating across the entire value chain of the foreign exchange industry in more than 20 countries. It has a growing network of ATMs and stores in some of the world’s top international airports, major transport hubs, premium shopping malls and city centres.
KUALA LUMPUR, 26 March 2026: In conjunction with the Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) campaign, Tourism Malaysia welcomed both domestic and international visitors last week* with vibrant Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrations across nine airports nationwide.
The main celebration was held at Kuala Lumpur International Airport Terminal 1, alongside simultaneous welcoming ceremonies at eight other airports across Selangor, Penang, Johor, Kedah, Perak, Sabah, and Sarawak.
Photo credit: Tourism Malaysia. Aidilfitri-themed Malay cultural performances enlivened the atmosphere while the VM2026 mascots, Wira and Manja, made special appearances.
The welcoming ceremony was officiated by YBrs Chua Choon Hwa, Deputy Secretary-General (Tourism) of MOTAC at KLIA Terminal 1. Also present were YBrs Mohd Amirul Rizal Abdul Rahim, Director General of Tourism Malaysia and YBrs Lee Thai Hung, Deputy Director General (Promotion II) of Tourism Malaysia.
Following the Chinese New Year celebrations last February, this series of cultural festivities continues to showcase the richness and harmony of Malaysia’s multicultural society. Visitors were warmly welcomed with festive souvenirs at the Arrival Hall and invited to savour traditional Hari Raya Aidilfitri delicacies, reflecting the nation’s signature hospitality and vibrant cultural heritage that defines the Malaysia Truly Asia experience.
Aidilfitri-themed Malay cultural performances further enlivened the atmosphere while the VM2026 mascots, Wira and Manja, made special appearances to delight visitors. Highlights of this event included a traditional kacau dodol demonstration, also known as the stirring of a sweet toffee-like delicacy, alongside a buka lemang gimmick, one of Malaysia’s cherished traditional dishes.
This programme was successfully delivered through strategic collaboration with various stakeholders, including ministries and agencies under MOTAC, airlines, corporate sponsors and tourism industry associations.
Participating partners included Malaysia Airport Sdn Bhd, Batik Air, QSR Brands (M) Holdings Bhd, Spritzer Berhad, Mitsui Outlet Park KLIA Sepang, LaKanVo Premium, Adabi Consumer Industries Sdn Bhd, BOH Plantations Sdn Bhd, Fraser & Neave Holdings Bhd, Watson Personal Care Stores Sdn Bhd, Gamuda Berhad, Grab Holdings Limited, Oriental Kopi Holdings Berhad, Photobook Worldwide, Vanzo Holdings Berhad, Fiscor Food Sdn Bhd, My Blockchain Infrastructure Sdn Bhd, Zus Coffee, TBH Wellness Sdn Bhd, Kek Lapis Warisan Sdn Bhd, Kraftangan Malaysia dan Borneo Empurau Farm & Resort.
Their participation reflects strong collective support in promoting Malaysia’s tourism industry and enhancing the overall visitor experience in line with the Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) campaign.
Malaysia’s main entry point, KLIA, saw a significant surge in visitors amid the celebration of Hari Raya Aidilfitri. With approximately 28 flights carrying an estimated 5,000 passengers across regions including Singapore, Jakarta, Manila, Beijing, Chengdu, Shanghai, Perth, Dubai, Brunei and Istanbul, the projected arrival statistics align with the momentum of the actively promoted Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) campaign.
Organising Malaysian festive celebrations at airports is among Tourism Malaysia’s ongoing strategies under the VM2026 campaign to provide a meaningful arrival experience, strengthen destination branding and promote Malaysia as a culturally rich and safe destination year-round. This initiative at international gateways plays a crucial role in leaving a positive impression on visitors and encouraging repeat visits.
*Hari Raya Aidilfitri Aidilfitri holds deep spiritual significance for Muslims, symbolising the completion of a month-long period of fasting, prayer, and reflection. It is a time to express gratitude for the blessings received during Ramadan and seek forgiveness for past transgressions. This year’s celebrations were held on 20 to 21 March 2026.
JAKARTA, 26 March 2026: JLL, a global commercial real estate and investment management firm, has successfully brokered a landmark investment for the Waldorf Astoria Jakarta, bringing the world-renowned luxury brand to Indonesia’s capital for the first time.
JLL advised PT Putragaya Wahana in securing investment from an affiliate of Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD), demonstrating the firm’s unmatched ability to execute complex cross-border hospitality transactions.
Waldorf Astoria Jakarta.
Set to open in 2027 as the capstone of the Autograph Tower within Thamrin Nine, the Waldorf Astoria Jakarta will redefine the city’s luxury hospitality landscape.
The mixed-use superblock will integrate offices, hotels, serviced residences, and lifestyle amenities into one commanding destination.
The property features distinctive elements: Indonesia’s highest observation deck, a double-tiered ballroom, and panoramic views of Jakarta’s skyline.
“This transaction demonstrates JLL’s integration of deep-rooted relationships with specialised hospitality expertise to execute complex cross-border investments,” said JLL Indonesia Capital Markets and Senior Director Southeast Asia Capital Markets Jacintha Tabalujan Herzog. “Our engagement with PT Putragaya Wahana, combined with the strength of our global capital markets platform, enabled us to facilitate this investment joint venture that will bring the prestigious Waldorf Astoria to Jakarta. The commitment from a fund of ADFD’s calibre represents a significant milestone for Indonesia’s real estate sector.”
The transaction underscores Indonesia’s strengthening economic partnerships across the UAE and broader GCC region. With robust bilateral relations creating a foundation of trust and collaboration, we anticipate accelerated cross-border investment activity and increasingly significant transactions flowing into Indonesia’s hospitality and broader real estate sectors.
SINGAPORE, 26 March 2026: New Booking.com search data* reveals that major Formula 1 races are increasingly shaping travel plans across the region.
International motorsport fans are driving significant spikes in accommodation searches around key race destinations such as Shanghai, Suzuka and Melbourne.
F1 Singapore — Gold standard for night races.
Standout F1 travel trends
F1’s Suzuka stop in Japan saw the largest jump in interest among APAC travellers
While Suzuka naturally attracts domestic travellers from Japan, the data shows strong international demand from markets including Taiwan, South Korea and Russia, showcasing Japan’s position as a key motorsport travel destination.
Taiwan is becoming a major F1 travel market
Taiwan ranked among the top search markets across all three race destinations, recording particularly strong growth for Suzuka and Shanghai, suggesting Taiwanese travellers are amongst the most enthusiastic motorsport travellers in APAC.
China’s return to the F1 Calendar is driving strong interest
Search demand for the Shanghai Grand Prix has surged across multiple markets, with growth from Singapore, Taiwan, Indonesia, Russia, and the UK. The strong increase in searches signals renewed regional and international excitement, following the race’s return to the Formula 1 calendar in 2024 after a five-year hiatus.
European fans continue travelling long-haul for APAC Grand Prix races
Markets such as the UK, Germany and France consistently rank among the top search markets for APAC races, reinforcing the global appeal of iconic circuits like Shanghai and Suzuka.
Key growth hubs in Asia
Destination
Impact Highlights (2025–2026)
Shanghai, China
The 2026 Chinese GP broke attendance records for the third straight year with 230,000+ spectators. International visitor share rose to 14%, and searches for “F1” surged 120 times during the peak period.
Suzuka, Japan
The 2026 Chinese GP broke attendance records for the third straight year with 230,000+ spectators. International visitor share rose to 14%, and searches for “F1” surged 120 times during the peak period.
Singapore
The 2026 Chinese GP broke attendance records for the third straight year with 230,000+ spectators. International visitor share rose to 14%, and searches for “F1” surged 120 times during the peak period.
Bangkok, Thailand
The 2026 Chinese GP broke attendance records for the third straight year with 230,000+ spectators. International visitor share rose to 14%, and searches for “F1” surged 120 times during the peak period.
Search data highlights Asia Pacific’s rise as a global hub for sports tourism and the increasing interest from international travellers visiting the region for major sporting events.
*Methodology: Searches by APAC travellers for Melbourne, Suzuka, and Shanghai between 1 August 2025 and 6 March 2026, with check-in dates from 5 to 30 March 2026
ABU DHABI, 26 March 2026: Etihad Airways has begun scheduled operations to North Carolina in the US, with its inaugural flight arriving at Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) on 20 March, operated by an Airbus A350-1000.
The new service connects the Charlotte region and communities throughout North Carolina and the broader Southeast in the US to Etihad’s global network, supporting both passenger and freight connectivity and providing access to key destinations across India and Asia.
Photo credit: Charlotte Douglas International Airport.
The airline provided no details of the frequency or schedule, possibly due to the constant threat from Iran’s drone and missile attacks on the Gulf countries, which have caused almost daily airspace closures and flight delays at aviation hubs in the UAE and Qatar.
However, advance timetable information indicates that the airline is scheduling four weekly flights from Abu Dhabi on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday.
Flight schedule (subject to change)
EY15 departs Abu Dhabi (ABU) at 0335 and arrives in Charlotte (CLT) at 1040. EY16 departs Charlotte at 1500 and arrives in Abu Dhabi at 1255.
BANGKOK, 25 March 2026: Founded in 1956, Skål International Bangkok has long stood as one of Asia’s most respected hospitality and tourism networking clubs.
As Club No 153 within Skål International, it continues to play a pivotal role in connecting industry leaders while adapting to a rapidly evolving professional landscape.
Today, the club is actively modernising its approach.
The club is expanding its reach through social media and digital engagement to attract a new generation of members while maintaining its strong foundation of industry relationships.
Skål members gather over lunch at the Hyatt Regency Bangkok Sukhumvit
A legacy of global connection
Skål International traces its origins back to 1932 in Paris, when a group of travel professionals, including agents, hoteliers, airline representatives, railway executives and cruise operators, came together following a Scandinavian familiarisation trip. This spirit of friendship and collaboration led to the formal establishment of Skål International in 1934, with Paris as Club No 1.
Across Asia, the movement has grown steadily; today, the associations have 12,500+ members in every major city (300+) in the world. Jakarta, Club No 13, remains the oldest in the region, while Bangkok Club No 153 has become one of its most dynamic and influential chapters.
Monthly networking with impact
Skål Bangkok hosts its regular meetings on the second Tuesday of each month, except in April, when it is closed due to the national Songkran holiday. These gatherings, a mix of lunches and evening cocktail events, provide a platform for meaningful connections, business development and knowledge exchange among tourism professionals.
A recent lunch event, held at the Hyatt Regency Bangkok Sukhumvit — President James Thurlby (3rd right) next to Secretary Jennifer Ferris, with Vice President Andrew J Wood (1st left) and Hyatt Regency General Manager Sammy Carolus (2nd left), with club members
Hosted at the renowned Spectrum venue on the 29th floor, the event combined exceptional hospitality with panoramic city views, reinforcing its reputation as one of Bangkok’s premier networking experiences.
Hotels frequently use these occasions to showcase new concepts, menus and service innovations. This has created a friendly yet spirited sense of competition among participating properties, ultimately enhancing the experience for members.
Strong sponsor support
A key strength of Skål Bangkok lies in the continued support from its sponsors. Their contributions help reduce event management costs while ensuring members enjoy high-quality food and beverage offerings at each gathering. This collaborative model allows the club to maintain accessibility while delivering consistently high standards.
Looking ahead: Regional and global engagement
While the core unit of Skål remains the individual club, members are also connected through a wider network of regional and international events.
The upcoming Skål Asia Congress will take place in Macau from 11 to 14 June at the Grand Lisboa Palace, bringing together industry leaders from across the region.
Globally, the annual Skål World Congress remains the organisation’s flagship event. The 2026 Skål World Congress will be held in Cape Town, South Africa, from 5 to 10 October 2026, continuing the tradition of rotating destinations and reinforcing Skål’s commitment to international collaboration.
A club for the future
As the tourism and hospitality sector continues to evolve, Skål International Bangkok is positioning itself at the intersection of tradition and innovation. By leveraging digital platforms, expanding its outreach and maintaining its strong community ethos, the club is ensuring its relevance for decades to come.
For hoteliers, travel professionals and tourism entrepreneurs, Skål Bangkok remains a unique platform for connecting, collaborating and growing within a trusted global network.
About the author Andrew J Wood is a Bangkok-based travel writer and former hotelier who has lived in Thailand since 1991. With more than four decades in the international hospitality industry, he has held senior leadership roles with leading hotel groups. He is widely recognised for his expertise in tourism and hospitality across Asia.
A long-standing member of Skål International, Andrew has served as a Director and has uniquely held the presidency at most levels of the organisation, including Past President of Skål Asia, National President of Skål Thailand, and twice President of Skål International Bangkok. He is a recipient of Skål’s Order of Merit, the President’s Award and the organisation’s highest honour, Membre d’Honneur.
He writes extensively on tourism trends and is widely published across international travel and hospitality media.
(Source: Your Stories — Skål International Bangkok)
SINGAPORE, 25 March 2026: Digital travel platform Agoda unveils a selection of weekend trip destinations across Asia for travellers seeking a quick escape.
Weekend trips have become increasingly appealing, offering a refreshing break from the daily grind without requiring extensive time off work. These short getaways provide an opportunity to explore new cultures, indulge in local cuisines, and experience diverse landscapes, all within a few days.
Whether it’s a serene beach retreat, a bustling city adventure, or a cultural exploration, weekend trips cater to the modern traveller’s desire for spontaneity and variety, making them ideal for those looking to recharge and rejuvenate.
Siem Reap, Cambodia: Siem Reap serves as a gateway to the ancient world, with the iconic Angkor Wat and other historic temples such as Ta Prohm and Bayon Temple. Beyond its archaeological wonders, the city offers vibrant nightlife on Pub Street and cultural immersion through local markets and museums. Ideal for history enthusiasts, Siem Reap presents to visitors both exploration and relaxation.
Goa, India: Known for its beaches and vibrant culture, Goa is a haven for those looking to unwind and enjoy a festive atmosphere. From the scenic Dudhsagar Falls to the historic Fort Aguada, Goa offers a combination of natural beauty and cultural landmarks. Visitors can indulge in local seafood, explore quaint villages, and experience the region’s unique blend of Indian and Portuguese influences.
Hoi An, Vietnam: Hoi An captivates with its well-preserved architecture and charming canals. This former port city is a cultural treasure, featuring wooden Chinese shophouses and French colonial buildings. Visitors can enjoy the Hoi An Night Market, relax on An Bang Beach, or take a basket boat tour on the Thu Bon River, making it a perfect destination for cultural exploration.
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia: Kuala Lumpur offers a mix of cultural immersion and modern attractions. From the iconic Petronas Twin Towers to the bustling Petaling Street, visitors can experience a variety of sights and sounds. The city’s rich culinary scene and diverse cultural heritage make it an exciting destination for a weekend getaway.
Busan, South Korea: A lively port city known for its beaches, mountains, and cultural sites, visitors can explore the scenic Gwangalli Beach, visit the historic Beomeosa Temple, or enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Jagalchi Market. With its blend of natural beauty and urban excitement, Busan is perfect for a dynamic weekend escape.
Samui, Thailand: Samui Island is a tropical paradise known for its stunning beaches and luxurious resorts. Visitors can unwind at Chaweng Beach, explore the Samui Elephant Sanctuary, or take in the views from Lad Koh Viewpoint. With its harmonious blend of relaxation and adventure, Koh Samui is perfect for beach lovers seeking a serene escape.
Agoda Senior Vice President Supply, Andrew Smith, shared: “Asia is a treasure trove of experiences, and Agoda is thrilled to guide travellers to these incredible destinations. Whether you’re seeking cultural immersion, beach relaxation, or urban exploration, Agoda has the perfect weekend getaway for you.”
