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More awards for the Emirates’ showcase

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Your Stories
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DUBAI, UAE, 31 October 2025: Emirates has garnered another slew of awards this month, including ‘Best International Airline’, ‘Best International First Class’, and ‘Best International Airline Lounge’ from the Forbes Travel Guide Verified Air Travel Awards, as well as a host of titles from entities such as the World Travel Awards, The Times and Sunday Times Travel Awards, and the Condé Nast Readers’ Choice Awards.

For the second year running, Emirates has been voted as the Best International Airline by 9,000 frequent fliers in the hospitality industry, including luxury travel advisors and Forbes Travel Guides inspectors, with results validated using a star ratings system. Forbes detailed why Emirates was selected as the ‘Best International Airline.’

The secret to the Dubai-based airline’s success is that it continually refines every aspect of the passenger experience. For example, Emirates recently debuted an opulent lounge-like check-in area for its First-Class and Skywards Platinum members, and it’s the first autism-certified airline, with more than 30,000 cabin crew and ground staff trained to support travellers with autism.’

Echoing the same sentiment, Emirates was revealed as the ‘Best Long-Haul Airline’ at The Times and The Sunday Times Travel Awards 2025 – cast from 900,000 reader votes. This award was credited to Emirates for its ‘cabin crew service, First Class suites (including showers) and fleet of roomy Airbus A380s.’ The Times also mentioned that Emirates continues to expand its footprint and has ‘connected the Middle East to five new destinations this year, including Shenzhen in southern China’ and ‘Siem Reap, the entry point to the Angkor Wat complex in Cambodia.’

Emirates also recently scored 87.86 in the Condé Nast Readers’ Choice Awards Best Airline Category, and won the title of Middle East’s leading airline brand at the regional finals of the World Travel Awards 2025.

Emirates takes first place for its First Class

Emirates is the world’s largest operator of international First Class travel – offering 26,800 seats a week and the largest inventory of international First Class seats in the industry, entirely comprised of private suites. At the recent Forbes awards, Emirates also claimed ‘Best International First Class -Emirates First Class on the Boeing 777-300ER’ for its suites that ‘deliver sky-high luxury: floor-to-ceiling doors, zero-gravity seats, Bulgari fragrances and food—ranging from movie snacks to caviar’, as well as ‘extras like chauffeured transfers, a service that helps passengers quickly navigate connections in Dubai and airport lounge access’.

Emirates was bestowed the title of Forbes’ Best International Airline Lounge’ for its First Class Lounge in Dubai, which offers ‘everything a traveller could need and more: delicious dishes ranging from baked John Dory to 72-hour braised beef short ribs, a cigar bar, shower spas, a complimentary 15-minute spa treatment and plentiful areas to rest or work. Though arguably the best perk is the convenient direct boarding from the lounge.’

Emirates also won several more honours for its First Class offering at the World Travel Awards 2025 regional final – Middle East’s leading airline – First Class and Middle East’s leading airline lounge – First Class.

Earlier in 2025, Emirates was honoured with several awards, including Best Long-Haul Airline at The Telegraph Travel Awards, 2025’s Most Recommended Global Brand by YouGov, and multiple categories at the Business Traveller Middle East Awards, such as Best Airline Worldwide for the 12th consecutive year, Best First Class, Best Premium Economy Class, and Best Airport Lounge in the Middle East. Additionally, Emirates Skywards was named as the Best Global Airline Loyalty Program at the International Loyalty Awards 2025 and the World Travel Awards Middle East’s leading airline rewards programme.

For information on flights or to make a booking, visit: www.emirates.com. 

(Source: Your Stories — Emirates)

Sabah hosts TENCON 2025

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Newsdesk
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KOTA KINABALU, 31 October: The 38th IEEE Region 10 Conference (TENCON 2025) convened at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) earlier this week, bringing together global experts, innovators, and technologists under the theme “Unleashing Innovation: Elevating Technologies to New Horizons.”

Organised by the IEEE Malaysia Section in collaboration with IEEE Region 10, the IEEE Malaysia Sabah Sub-Section, and Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS), the four-day conference (27 to 30 October) enjoyed strong support from the Government of Malaysia and the State Government of Sabah.

The Opening Ceremony of the IEEE Region 10 Conference 2025 (TENCON 2025) was officiated by the Vice Chancellor of Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS), Datuk Dr Kasim bin Hj. Md. Mansur, and represented by Professor Ir Dr Rosalam Sarbatly, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Research & Innovation), UMS.

As the flagship conference of IEEE Region 10 (Asia-Pacific), TENCON serves as a premier platform for researchers, educators, industry leaders, and policymakers to exchange knowledge, showcase breakthroughs, and explore innovations across electrical engineering, computer science, and emerging technologies.

The conference featured a comprehensive technical programme, 13 co-located sessions, industry and STEM exhibitions, and the IEEE Gala Dinner, offering a rich platform for networking and collaboration. 

About IEEE and TENCON
The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) is the world’s largest professional association dedicated to advancing technology for the benefit of humanity. TENCON is IEEE Region 10’s flagship annual conference, serving as a leading platform for researchers, engineers, and industry professionals across the Asia-Pacific region.

(Source: Sabah Tourism Board)

Norse Atlantic expands flights to Bangkok

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Newsdesk
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SINGAPORE, 31 October 2025: Norse Atlantic Airways introduces a new route between Manchester (UK) and Bangkok, Thailand, commencing on 26 November 2025. It follows this week’s launch of a service between London Gatwick and the Thai capital, Bangkok.

Departing every Wednesday, the Manchester-Bangkok service will become the first direct air link between the two cities. The airline estimates that in 2024, around 100,000 passengers travelling to Bangkok embarked on flights from Manchester that involved a stop in the Middle East for a change of aircraft.

Photo credit: Norse Atlantic Airways.

Norse’s entrance into the Manchester-Bangkok market offers a game-changing alternative to indirect, time-consuming connections. It supports both inbound tourism to the UK and leisure travel to Thailand, the airline reported.

The airline uses 787-9 aircraft with 338 seats, configured with three classes: 56 in business, 56 in premium economy, and 226 in economy. Return fares start from GBP259, including taxes.

Flight schedule — MAN-BKK

ZO891 departs Manchester (MAN) at 2330 on Wednesday and arrives in Bangkok (BKK) at 1800 plus a day.
ZO892 departs Bangkok (BKK) at 2000 on Thursday and arrives in Manchester (MAN) at 0215. Flight time 13 hours and 15 minutes.

London Gatwick-Bangkok service

Norse Atlantic Airways launched a new direct service from London Gatwick (LGW) to Bangkok (BKK) on 26 October 2025. Flights initially operate three times weekly, with return fares starting at UKP295 including taxes.

Flight schedule — LGW-BKK

ZO791 departs London (LGW) at 1600 and arrives in Bangkok (BKK) at 1055, plus a day. Three flights weekly depart LGW on Tuesday, Wednesday and Sunday.
ZO792 departs Bangkok (BKK) at 1230 and arrives in London (LGW) at 1830 on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday.

In December, the airline will add a fourth flight on the route departing from London (LGW) on Friday.

More Norse flights​​​​​​​ to Bangkok

Weekly flights between Stockholm Arlanda (ARN) and Bangkok will increase from two to four starting Friday, 5 December  2025, with one-way fares starting from SEK3546 including taxes.

Flights between Oslo (OSL) and Bangkok (BKK) will increase from three to four times weekly beginning Wednesday, 3 December 2025, with one-way fares from NOK2578 including taxes.

About Norse Atlantic Airways
A Norwegian-owned low-cost airline, Norse Atlantic Airways, flies out of London Gatwick. Founded by CEO and major shareholder Bjørn Tore Larsen in March 2021, it operates a fleet of Boeing 787 Dreamliners serving a growing network of destinations across North America, Europe, Africa, and Asia. 

(Source: Norse Atlantic Airlines)

Le Méridien Bangkok: A Halal-friendly destination

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Your Stories
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Marriott International Hotel

BANGKOK, 31 October 2025: Le Méridien Bangkok, a five-star art-inspired hotel in the Silom district, reaffirms its reputation as Thailand’s premier Halal-friendly destination. 

Recognised by the International Crescent Rating for Halal travel excellence, the hotel offers a refined blend of contemporary design, cultural inclusivity, and heartfelt service.

A Halal-Certified Haven of Comfort and Style

Le Méridien Bangkok stands as the only five-star hotel in Thailand accredited for Halal travel excellence, demonstrating its deep commitment to Muslim travellers. Each guest room features Qiblah direction indicators and Japanese washlets, with prayer mats and timetables available upon request. Dedicated prayer spaces can be arranged, and the concierge can provide information on nearby mosques and transportation for Taraweeh prayers during Ramadan.

Hotel associates receive training in cultural awareness and Muslim guest requirements, ensuring every interaction reflects Le Méridien’s signature warmth and respect.

Culinary excellence with Halal assurance

Dining at Le Méridien Bangkok celebrates both authenticity and creativity. All chicken and beef are sourced from Halal-certified suppliers, prepared in separate kitchen areas with dedicated utensils to prevent cross-contamination. The hotel offers Halal-certified breakfasts, in-room dining, banquets, and minibar options, as well as special Iftar and Ramadan dining experiences.

Guests can also enjoy a rich variety of seafood, vegetarian, and fusion dishes — blending international flair with local inspiration. Signature menu highlights include Shish Tawook, Lamb Kofta, Khao Soi Wagyu Brisket Ravioli, and the Golden Cavendish Banana Parfait. Vegetarian and family-friendly options further reflect the hotel’s inclusive culinary philosophy.

Wellness, privacy and peace of mind

For wellness seekers, the hotel offers separate male and female spa facilities, including a female-only spa and onsen, with female attendants available on request. Its location near leading international hospitals — BNH, Bumrungrad, and Samitivej Sukhumvit — provides extra peace of mind for health-conscious guests.

Family comfort and the Middle East room promotion

To cater to families and long-stay visitors, Le Méridien Bangkok introduces an exclusive Middle East Room Promotion, offering luxurious accommodations and exceptional value:

• Family Suite (114 sqm) — THB14,900 net, breakfast for four

• Presidential Suite (165 sqm) — THB 19,900 net, breakfast for two

• Family Presidential Suite (250 sqm) — THB23,900 net, breakfast for four.

All suites feature connecting layouts ideal for families, with Halal-certified dining, kids’ menus, and activities such as cooking classes and private city tours, as well as convenient access to shopping malls and entertainment venues.

Booking period: Now until 20 December 2026.

Blackout dates: 24 December 2025 to  2 January 2026; 10–15 April 2026; 26 December 2026 – 2 January 2027.

Cultural sophistication and global assurance

Set in the lively Silom district, Le Méridien Bangkok offers proximity to Central Dusit Park, One Bangkok, MBK Centre, and Samyan Mitrtown — a 24-hour complex with cafés, prayer facilities, and a cinema.

As part of Marriott Bonvoy, Le Méridien Bangkok combines world-class service, authentic cultural experiences, and a sense of discovery — reaffirming its position as the preferred Halal-friendly luxury hotel for global travellers.

Reservations and Enquiries

For reservations or further information, please contact:
Email: [email protected]
Visit: Hotel Website
Tel: +66 (0) 2 232 8888
Line: https://lin.ee/iwRam1w
Reserve dining: Rolling Ribs Brew Bar & BBQ | Tempo

About Le Méridien Bangkok
Le Méridien Bangkok blends contemporary European sophistication with Thai elegance in the city’s dynamic Silom district. With 282 rooms and suites, inspired dining, award-winning spa facilities, and personalised service, the hotel invites guests to unlock Bangkok through a new lens of culture, creativity, and discovery.

(Source: Your Stories — Le Méridien Bangkok)

Honey helps a senior elephant heal

By
Your Stories
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BANGKOK, 31 October 2025: When a neighbour of Asian Trails’ Chairman, Luzi Matzig, returned from an RV River Kwai cruise, he shared a story about visiting the Somboon Legacy Foundation, an ethical non-profit, elephant camp in Kanchanaburi province that provides lifelong care for four elderly elephants aged between 60 and 90.

One of the elephants, ‘Kham Phaeng’, was suffering from a leg wound sustained before its rescue. Luzi’s neighbour, who imports Manuka honey from New Zealand, suggested that using honey, known for its potent antibacterial and healing properties, could be used to treat the ailing elephant.

Photo credit: Asian Trails. A chance encounter turned into a heart-warming act of care when Asian Trails’ Chairman, Luzi Matzi (right), delivered healing Manuka honey for an injured Thai elephant.

This neighbourly connection led to Asian Trails receiving some of the honey, and staff joined the peak season’s first RV River Kwai cruise to deliver it to the foundation. Sixty-year-old Kham Phaeng had the precious honey applied to her wound in the presence of our team.

Caring for elephants is a central part of Asian Trails’ commitment to ethical wildlife practices, and this is closely monitored during the company’s audits of all elephant camps included in its tours.

The assessment includes training all staff to understand the complexities of caring for wild elephants in captivity; the relationship between elephants and mahouts regarding safety; the expectations of clients who are following animal welfare guidelines; and the ethical experiences visitors enjoy when they visit elephant camps that forbid riding and human contact when bathing the animals.

During a recent audit of the Somboon Legacy Foundation, the Asian Trails team arrived as the elephants were bathing on the riverside. Staff were able to view the jumbos from an elevated platform, allowing the animals to enjoy their dip without human intrusion.

The jumbos then leisurely returned to a shaded wooded area, where their mahouts fed them. All four elephants are very calm and appear content, and their bond with their mahouts remains strong, as the handlers manage them easily with voice commands.

Photo credit: Asian Trails.

Although Kham Phaeng’s leg wound has improved, she still has some minor wounds that are healing, to which her mahout has applied the honey.

Besides viewing the resident elephants, the Somboon Foundation has an excellent educational centre where children and adults alike can learn about elephants and their lives in captivity.

There are many interactive exhibits, including one where flapping a model elephant’s ear on a display panel triggers lights that illustrate how an elephant’s natural cooling system works.

Visitors can also see demonstrations of how elephant dung is transformed into paper and participate in a hands-on workshop to create paper products from elephant waste.

This experience not only reinforces Asian Trails’ Responsible Wildlife Policy, which supports ethical elephant camps that provide excellent care with minimal human interaction, but also underscores the importance of responsible tourism. It also allows visitors to witness the sanctuary’s vital role as a resting home for elephants with complex pasts and health conditions that prevent them from returning to the wild.

For instance, Kam Phaeng was rescued by the foundation from a trekking camp in Pattaya where tourists had ridden her on a heavy wooden seat. She had spent the last decade of her life chained up by 15-cm-long chains on one front and one rear leg. Therefore, she was never able to sleep lying down.

Asian Trails’ RV River Kwai sailing the River Kwai Noi.

She has now gained weight and enjoys the forested environment of the refuge, a perfect replication of an elephant’s natural habitat with trees, plants, ponds and a river that provide respite from the hot sun, plus opportunities to forage and stimulate the mind.

To book a tour to the Somboon Legacy Foundation or any of the other ethical elephant camps Asian Trails promotes, contact Asian Trails Thailand. 

For more about Asian Trails’ sustainable initiatives, please click here.

(Source: Your Stories — Asian Trails).

AAPA tracks growth in passenger traffic

By
Newsdesk
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KUALA LUMPUR, 31 October 2025: International air passenger traffic continues to scale up according to the Preliminary September 2025 traffic figures released Thursday by the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines.

APPA data shows resilient regional economic conditions, underpinned by Asia Pacific GDP growth projected at 4.5%1 for the year, provided firm support to overall traffic demand.

Buoyed by robust business and consumer activity, the region’s airlines recorded a 7.1% year-on-year increase in the number of international passengers carried, reaching a combined total of 30.9 million in September. 

Passenger demand, as measured in revenue passenger kilometres (RPK), rose by 6.7% year-on-year, matching the expansion in available seat capacity. As a result, the international passenger load factor averaged 80.7% for the month, remaining elevated amid ongoing supply chain constraints.

Meanwhile, air cargo markets remained strong, supported by shifts in Asian cargo flows following the implementation of U.S. tariffs. International air cargo demand, measured in freight tonne kilometres (FTK), grew by 5.0% compared with the same month last year. Offered freight capacity increased by 4.4% year-on-year, leading to a marginal 0.3 percentage point increase in the average international freight load factor to 60.8%.

Commenting on the results, AAPA Director General, Subhas Menon said: “Despite heightened trade tensions and the implementation of US tariffs, Asian economies have remained resilient, aided by the front-loading of exports, ongoing regional supply-chain realignments and firm domestic demand. Against this backdrop, Asia Pacific carriers posted a solid 10% increase in international passengers to a total of 289 million for the first nine months of the year, alongside a 7% year-on-year growth in international air cargo demand.”

Menon added: “The outlook for both international air passenger and air cargo markets remains positive. Asia Pacific carriers are well-placed to respond to demand growth, while navigating multiple challenges, including supply chain constraints as well as rising operational costs.”

(Source: APPA)

STR CoStar executive wins 2025 Rising Star Award

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Newsdesk
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SINGAPORE: 31 October 2025: The International Society of Hospitality Consultants (ISHC), in partnership with the Hotel Investment Conference Asia Pacific (HICAP), awarded Karan Mahesh, Senior Sales – South & Southeast Asia, STR CoStar, with the Rising Star Award Asia Pacific.

The award recognises an emerging leader in the hospitality industry who has demonstrated exceptional professional growth, leadership, and impact in the Asia Pacific region.

Karan Mahesh, Senior Sales – South & Southeast Asia, STR CoStar.

Karan began his career in sales and marketing with ITC Hotels in Bangalore, where his talent and drive quickly led to a series of promotions from property-level roles to the corporate office. In 2019, he joined STR (a CoStar company) as an Account Manager for Central and South Asia, where he distinguished himself by building strong client relationships, expanding data coverage, and growing revenue across diverse markets, including India, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives.

Now based in Singapore, Karan leads STR’s business development efforts across South and Southeast Asia, representing CoStar at major industry conferences and investment forums. 

In recognition of his consistent excellence, Karan was named to CoStar’s prestigious President’s Club in both 2023 and 2024 — an honour reserved for top-performing sales professionals globally. His innovative mindset, adaptability, and dedication to advancing hospitality analytics have made him a standout example of the next generation of industry leadership.

ISHC launched the Rising Star Award Asia in 2014 in partnership with HICAP to recognise young, emerging leaders in the Asia hospitality community. Nomination criteria require an individual to be 35 years of age or younger, currently working and living in Asia, and working in the hospitality development and/or investment field. 

(Source: ISHC Rising Star Awards)

Discovery Princess visits Singapore

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Newsdesk
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SINGAPORE, 31 October 2025: Princess Cruises’ newest Royal-Class ship, Discovery Princess, has made her maiden call to Singapore, arriving at the Marina Bay Cruise Centre on 28 October 2025. 

The ship will sail on an inaugural five-day cruise to the Malaysian ports of Port Klang (Kuala Lumpur), Penang and Langkawi before returning to Singapore on 2 November.

Photo credit: Princess Cruises. Discovery Princess visits Singapore.

Discovery Princess was launched in March 2022 and can accommodate up to 3,660 guests. It has over 1,800 staterooms, including over 1,400 with balconies.

This will be her only voyage in Southeast Asia before the ship sails to Australia to start her first homeporting season in Sydney, from 6 December 2025 to 7 April 2026, sailing around Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific. This debut offers over 20 itineraries and also celebrates Princess Cruises’ 50th anniversary of operating cruises from Australia.

Plaque-exchange ceremony

To celebrate the maiden call in Singapore, plaques were exchanged between Captain Tony Ruggero and representatives from Marina Bay Cruise Centre, Singapore Tourism Board and Wallem Shipping. Over 50 travel advisors in Singapore were also invited to tour the ship’s facilities and hosted to lunch onboard. 

Whilst the ship is at Port Klang and Penang, another 50 travel advisors will be hosted on board for a familiarisation visit.  Plaque-exchange ceremonies will also be held between Captain Ruggero and the local port and tourism authorities.

Discovery Princess has more than 20 restaurants and bars, including three main dining rooms, several casual dining options, a 24-hour café, pizzerias, an ice cream bar, and the World Fresh Marketplace buffet, as well as several speciality restaurants.

Diamond and Crown Princess visit Singapore

Meanwhile, Diamond Princess will return to Singapore on 6 December 2025 to commence her homeporting season, sailing around Southeast Asia until February 2026. Diamond Princess will visit destinations in Vietnam, including Ho Chi Minh City, Nha Trang, Halong Bay, and Da Nang. Malaysian ports such as Langkawi, Penang, and Kuala Lumpur will also be visited, along with Phuket. Ko Samui and Bangkok. One sailing will also include Cambodia, where guests can visit Angkor Wat.

Crown Princess will also be making her maiden call to Singapore towards the end of November 2025.

(Source: Princess Cruises)

Football fans head for the FIFA Arab Cup

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Newsdesk
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DOHA Qatar, 31 October 2025: Qatar Airways Holidays, the airline’s leisure division, has announced the launch of its exclusive travel packages for the FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025, giving football fans from around the world the opportunity to experience the excitement of one of the region’s most anticipated tournaments.

Following Qatar’s hosting of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 and the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023, the FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025 marks another milestone in the country’s journey as the home of world-class football. The tournament will take place from 1 to 18 December 2025, bringing together 16 national teams from across the Arab world.

Photo credit: Qatar Airways.

Qatar Airways Holidays offers fans return international flights with Qatar Airways, premium accommodation at four and five-star hotels, and Category 1 or Category 2 match tickets for selected fixtures. 

Privilege Club members can collect Avios and Qpoints on flights and packages, and can save by booking with Cash + Avios.

The FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025 tournament will showcase the region’s best talent, celebrating football, national pride, and the enduring legacy of the beautiful game in the Middle East and North Africa. The launch of the FIFA Arab Cup 2025™ travel packages underscores Qatar Airways’ commitment to promoting Qatar as a top-tier global destination for sports and tourism. By combining world-class aviation with unforgettable fan experiences, the airline continues to position itself at the heart of major sporting events that unite people and cultures.

Organised by FIFA and hosted by Qatar, the first edition of the tournament took place in 2021, with its second edition — the FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025 — set to feature 16 teams from across the Arab world competing in stadiums that made history during the FIFA World Cup 2022. 

(Source: Qatar Airways)

Marina Bay cruise terminal completes upgrade

By
Newsdesk
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SINGAPORE, 31 October 2025: Marina Bay Cruise Centre Singapore (MBCCS), managed by SATS-Creuers Cruise Services (SCCS)R, has completed a SGD40 million upgrade to enhance passenger experience and accommodate the growing cruise travel demand in Asia.

MBCCS has reorganised its passenger flows to manage simultaneous dual mega-ship calls at its existing two berths. A new dedicated check-in hall on Level 1, offering 70 counters and over 500 seats, will serve Pier 2. The existing facility at the Level 2 check-in hall will serve Pier 1, ensuring a smoother start to passengers’ journeys. Both check-in halls have VIP lounges.

Marina Bay Cruise Centre Singapore (MBCCS).

The upgraded facilities extend beyond check-in. The new Ground Transport Area (GTA) improves accessibility and convenience for all passengers, featuring widened roadways leading to MBCCS, increased coach bays, and early baggage drop-off, allowing bags to go directly to the ship. This will help reduce wait times at the terminal. 

In addition, ride-hailing lots have more than doubled to meet growing passenger demand, while a looped shuttle service on select cruise days links Marina South Pier MRT station to the terminal, making travel to and from MBCCS easier.

The terminal has partnered with preferred third-party providers to offer baggage transfer services to all Singapore hotels and Changi Airport, as well as shuttle services to popular attractions such as Gardens by the Bay and Chinatown on select cruise days. 

MBCCS has also reintroduced the Cruise-Fly Service for international passengers disembarking in Singapore, allowing them to check in and tag their baggage for same-day connecting flights. This enables travellers to explore the city baggage-free before continuing their onward journey.

(Source: MBCCS)

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