BANGKOK, 29 June 2022: Chatrium Hospitality has appointed John Neutze as general manager of Chatrium Residence Sathon Bangkok.
With over 30 years in the hospitality industry, Neutze has extensive experience in sales and marketing, operations and guest technology engagement solutions across hospitality brands, including Raffles Le Royal and Raffles Grand d’Angkor (Cambodia), Hilton Maldives (now rebranded to Conrad Maldives), Hilton Worldwide and Stamford Hotels & Resorts.
“I am delighted to have John Nuetze join the Chatrium family. We are confident his fresh ideas and extensive experience will add a new dimension to the guest experience at the property and group level,” said the group’s general manager Rene Balmer.
MUMBAI, 28 June 2022: As business travel revives, Thomas Cook (India) Limited has launched FX-Now – a digital tool that delivers to corporate clients end-to-end foreign exchange services.
The digital tool simplifies the process yet maintains necessary checks and balances for its business travellers.
Thomas Cook (India) Limited senior vice president foreign exchangeDeepesh Varma said: “The pandemic has fast-tracked India’s digital evolution, and this is even more so for our corporate travellers – a critical segment for our Forex business.
With the current Forex processes being rather cumbersome, requiring significant documentation and approvals, we were keen to eliminate the pain points for our business travellers. This formed the genesis of FX-Now, our cutting-edge corporate self-booking tool that empowers our corporates with simple, swift, convenient and contactless services for end-to-end forex transactions. FX-Now is inbuilt with customisable corporate travel policies, approval matrix and customisable MIS capabilities to further benefit our corporate segment.”
As one of the largest travel service provider networks in Asia-Pacific, the Thomas Cook India Group spans 25 countries across five continents.
BANGKOK, 28 June 2022: In its latest announcement released Monday, the Civil Aviation of Thailand recommends airline passengers continue to wear masks during flights as the country does away with most Covid-19 regulations.
Mask-wearing outdoors or in uncrowded places is now voluntary, but residents and travellers are advised to wear them in closed areas such as public transport, airline cabins and shopping malls. Local media reports suggest Thais and residents are in no hurry to ditch their masks. Most continue to wear them outside or in well-ventilated areas, so travellers should follow their lead if they want to blend in.
CAAT’s Pilot Notification (NOTAM) posted on the agency’s Facebook page Monday informed airlines worldwide about the latest improved measures on air travel to Thailand.
As of 1 July, the Thailand Pass has been abolished along with the mandatory health insurance requirement.
Fully vaccinated passengers can enter Thailand without undergoing tests for Covid-19. They need to show a certificate of vaccination. If they have a respiratory illness, they should take a Rapid Antigen Test (PRO-ATK) to be on the safe side.
Passengers who are not vaccinated or have not completed the entire vaccinated course will need to show a PRO-ATK or RT-PCR negative test result no later than 72 hours before travel to be able to enter the country.
Airlines will have to verify documents of international passengers for vaccination documents or PRO-ATK or RT-PCR results. If passengers do not have any of the above documents, they will have to comply with the order of the checkpoint authorities.
For international airlines, crew certification documents can be submitted to facilitate the crew. However, the disease control authorities may review the documents.
Meanwhile, Thailand’s night entertainment spots will be allowed to open until 0200. A ban on serving or selling alcoholic beverages between 1400 and 1700 remains in place, with a few exceptions. Tourist hotels can serve alcoholic beverages from 1400 to 1700. Also, provincial governors have the power to allow restaurants and bars serving tourists to remain open in the afternoon to sell alcoholic beverages. Some governors have already provided written authorisation that allows restaurants to sell alcoholic beverages from 1400 to 1700. The afternoon ban on drinking was on the books long before Covid-19.
MANILA, 28 June 2022: Cebu Pacific continues to expand its international network with the resumption of its Manila – Brunei flight on 23 July, bringing the total international routes restored to 18.
In a media statement at the weekend, CEB confirmed it would restart services between Manila and Brunei, beginning with two flights weekly, every Thursday and Saturday.
Flight 5J 409 will depart Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 at 1910 and arrive at Brunei International Airport by 2140. The return flight, 5J 410, will leave Brunei at 2230 and arrive in Manila at 0050 on the following morning.
“We are especially happy to bring this route back after a two-year hiatus as we know many of our passengers are looking forward to visiting their family and friends – whether in Brunei or back home in the Philippines,” said CEB chief commercial officer Xander Lao.
Fully vaccinated Filipinos flying to Brunei are only required to present their proof of vaccination, along with an e-health arrival declaration form which they must fill out not more than 24 hours before departure. Travel Medical Insurance with Covid-19 cover (minimum coverage of BND 20,000) must also be presented at the check-in counter.
Filipinos returning home no longer need to take a Covid-19 test pre-departure.
SINGAPORE, 28 June 2022: Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), the innovator in global cruise travel with a 55-year history of breaking boundaries, will return to Asia for the 2023-2024 cruise season, featuring 12 immersive and port-rich sailings ranging from 10- to 12-days on board Norwegian Jewel as well as a 16-day Extraordinary Journey from Seattle, Washington (US) to Tokyo, Japan.
The extensive season will operate from October 2023 to March 2024 and will see a vast choice of departure ports, including Tokyo and Yokohama, Japan; Taipei (Keelung), Taiwan; Singapore; Kuala Lumpur (Port Klang), Malaysia; Bangkok (Laem Chabang), Thailand; Bali (Benoa), Indonesia; and Seoul (Incheon), South Korea. In addition, NCL will make “Brand first” visits to four ports in the region, including Puerto Princesa, Boracay, Salomague and Hualien, where travellers will explore the natural beauty and rich culture of the Philippines and Taiwan.
Norwegian Jewel returns to Asia for her second successful season in the region following a 16-day repositioning cruise from Seattle, Washington (US) to Tokyo, Japan, via Alaska. Her port-intensive Asia itineraries mostly include less than two sea-days per cruise and multiple late-night departures and overnight calls on select itineraries in Osaka, Japan; Singapore; and Phuket, Thailand. Almost all cruises are open-jaw, allowing travellers to book-end their voyage with land explorations in different exotic destinations.
“We’re thrilled to return to Asia and to reaffirm our commitment to one of the most sought-after cruise destinations around the world,” said Norwegian Cruise Line president and CEO Harry Sommer.
“Asia is a key source market, and our return allows our guests from Asia the freedom to sail with us from their doorstep. We couldn’t be more pleased to make our long-awaited return to this uniquely diverse and culturally rich region with Norwegian Jewel, a ship we already know is incredibly popular in Asia.”
Asia’s energetic cities, lush green landscapes and idyllic tropical islands are best explored by sea. Whether guests are seeking to couple the culinary delights of Japan with the bright lights of Taipei, or an island exploration of Indonesia, Thailand and Malaysia, visiting jewels such as Langkawi, Lombok and Phuket, NCL’s Asia programme on board Norwegian Jewel offers travellers diverse itineraries together with the freedom to fully immerse themselves in the destination.
On board Norwegian Jewel, guests can enjoy numerous amenities including action-packed activities at the outdoor Sports Complex, high-energy Zumba and Flywheel Sports classes, and multiple uniquely themed bars and lounges, including Bliss Ultra Lounge, where guests can dance the night away. Norwegian Jewel, with a guest capacity of 2,376, also offers some of the largest suites at sea with staterooms that accommodate every style and budget. The ship also offers a Haven Deluxe Owner’s Suite that features the most luxurious, well-appointed accommodations on board, including 24-hour butler service.
For more information about NCL’s award-winning 17-ship fleet and worldwide itineraries, or to book a cruise, please contact a travel professional, call Hong Kong on +852 2165 6000 and Southeast Asia on +65 3165 1680 or visit www.ncl.com.
LONDON, 28 June 2022: Demand for overseas homes for investment or as a permanent residence in Laguna Phuket has soared, with property sales reaching a record high of THB1.35 billion (GBP30 million) in the first quarter of 2022, compared with just THB250 million (GBP6 million) during the same period last year.
Relocating to seek new business possibilities, personal growth or a new horizon for young families or early retirees are the factors driving consumer interest in destinations such as Phuket in Thailand.
Angsana Oceanview Residences (top right) are located within the Laguna Phuket integrated destination.
Laguna Phuket is a 1,000-acre community built on old tin mining land over 30 years ago by the visionary founder of Banyan Tree Holdings, KP Ho. He bought the land, cleared it and filled in the craters where tin was mined to create a series of stunning natural lagoons.
Over the years the destination has morphed into an elegant enclave of hospitality and residences, where a total of seven hotels are located, surrounded by lagoons, three miles of beachfront, cycling paths, the new wellness concept The Veya by Banyan Tree, boutique shops, restaurants and beach clubs – even a recent floating bar addition “The Atoll” in the middle of one of the lagoons – and an 18-hole golf course. The area surrounding Laguna Phuket, Cherng Talay, has blossomed as a result – with freestanding restaurants, gourmet supermarkets, specialist wine outlets and a host of other fitness and arts activities.
“Creating an integrated community has always been at the heart of our brand DNA since our founding in 1983,” says Laguna Resorts & Hotels. Deputy CEO Stuart Reading. “Our transformation from a former tin mine into the resort destination has been quite a journey. Now, we are giving our international clientele the opportunity to transform their lives. We are seeing increased demand from buyers who are looking for both primary and secondary homes in a relaxing setting where they can enjoy a premium lifestyle and complete peace of mind, supported by leading brands, spectacular scenery, and there’s, of course, the beach with Bangtao Bay a sublime backdrop.”
Laguna Phuket recently unveiled the Angsana Oceanview Residences, a low-rise collection of apartments overlooking the Andaman Sea. Each unit features two bedrooms and stylish living areas opening out onto a private alfresco deck and infinity pool. With high-spec interiors blessed with natural light, panoramic views and fully connected with the latest technology, these residences are designed to be a great place to stay, play and be productive in paradise.
Managed by Banyan Tree Group, Angsana Oceanview Residences benefit from the five-star facilities of Angsana Laguna Phuket and can be enjoyed throughout the year or added to the rental pool to rent if residents choose not to stay there.
Laguna Resorts & Hotels is one of Thailand’s largest SET-listed resort and residence developers, accounting for over 40 per cent of properties on the island’s central west coast, ranging from affordable condominiums from THB5 million (GBP120,000) to luxury homes and villas worth THB100 million (GBP2.4 million) and more. This creates outstanding options for overseas buyers seeking a strategic investment, a second home or a new life in the sun.
Angsana Oceanview Residences form part of an exclusive portfolio of properties by Banyan Tree Group, which has won 20 awards, including six prestigious International Property Awards, for its Laguna Phuket properties in the last three years villas, condos and private residences across a range of segments. The enduring appeal of Thailand’s warm hospitality and the Banyan Tree brand make Angsana Oceanview Residences a compelling choice for all potential investors, including couples, families and retirees.
SINGAPORE, 28 June 2022: Marriott International has signed an agreement with Vinpearl, Vietnam’s largest hospitality and leisure chain, to convert and develop 2,200 rooms across eight hotels in Vietnam.
It will significantly expand the group’s portfolio in Vietnam and introduce for the first time the Autograph Collection brand. Other planned openings span the following brands: Marriott Hotels, Sheraton Hotels & Resorts, and Four Points by Sheraton.
Of the eight hotels, six are conversions that should join Marriott’s system later this year.
The 223-room Vinpearl Landmark 81, Autograph Collection is currently known as Vinpearl Luxury Landmark 81 located on the banks of the Saigon River.
The 200-room and 39-villa Danang Marriott Resort & Spa is expected to fly the Marriott brand flag following the rebranding of Vinpearl Luxury Danang, located on Non Nuoc Beach, close to downtown Danang.
Sheraton Long Beach Phu Quoc Resort is situated on the west coast of Phu Quoc, Vietnam’s largest island. After rebranding the existing Vinpearl Phu Quoc Resort, the resort will feature 500 residential rooms, suites, and villas.
The 362-room Sheraton Hai Phong is currently known as Vinpearl Hotel Imperial, Hai Phong, located in the centre of Vietnam’s largest port city.
The 262-room Sheraton Can Tho is located on the banks of Can Tho River in the heart of the thriving Mekong Delta city. It currently operates as the Vinpearl Hotel Can Tho.
Four Points by Sheraton Lang Son is a 21-story hotel in the heart of the charming northern city of Lang Son. Currently known as the Vinpearl Hotel Lang Son, the hotel will feature 127 rooms and suites.
Two new-build hotels are expected to open in 2025 – the Sheraton Vinh and Four Points by Sheraton Ha Giang.
Marriott International currently operates 10 hotels and resorts in Vietnam. The company recently announced its plans to quadruple its Vietnam portfolio with a signed pipeline of 30 hotels. Today’s announcement brings the company’s pipeline in Vietnam close to 40 hotels.
BANGKOK, 28 June 2022: Bangkok Airways has resumed direct flights between Bangkok and Maldives, using an Airbus A319 aircraft.
Four weekly flights operate Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday. The outbound flight PG 711 departs Suvarnabhumi Airport at 0920 and arrives at Male International Airport at 1145. The inbound flight PG 712 departs Male International Airport at 12.45 and arrives at Suvarnabhumi Airport at 1930.
The airline’s website posts one-way fares starting at THB7,610 up until November, when it flags an increase to THB8,715 that remains valid through to May 2023. However, on its homepage, the airline promotes a “special roundtrip fare” of THB16,350 for bookings made until 31 August for travel through to 31 October.
Bangkok Airways operated four weekly flights from Bangkok to the Maldives until March 2020, when the Covid-19 pandemic suspended international travel across Asia.
SYDNEY, 27 June 2022: Qantas will significantly boost its international network from Perth, with flights to Jakarta and Johannesburg set to take off later this year.
The routes are the latest of eight new international services the national carrier has announced since Australia’s international borders reopened in November 2021.
Both routes are being supported by the Western Australian Government’s Reconnect WA package, and Qantas will work with Tourism Western Australia to boost inbound tourism from both South Africa and Indonesia to Perth and destinations in Western Australia.
Johannesburg
From 1 November, Qantas will operate the only direct service from Perth to South Africa, operating three return flights per week on its Airbus A330 aircraft.
The flights will cut more than six hours from the fastest current travel time, with customers heading to Johannesburg from Perth currently having to fly on Qantas via Sydney or via the Middle East.
With a large South African community in Perth, the flights are expected to be popular with people visiting family and friends and business and leisure travellers. The route will also offer convenient one-stop connections for people travelling to and from other Australian cities.
Qantas’ existing four flights per week from Sydney to Johannesburg on its Boeing 787 aircraft have had strong bookings since they recommenced in January this year and will increase to daily from 30 October.
Jakarta
From 30 November, Qantas flights will reconnect Perth with Jakarta for the first time since borders closed in March 2020, beginning with three flights per week on its Boeing 737 aircraft.
It is the first time that Qantas has operated the route, which will support the growing trade and tourism links between Australia and Indonesia.
The route is also expected to be popular with travellers connecting to other major Indonesian cities such as Surabaya and Medan.
“Western Australia has become an increasingly important part of our international network and we’re really excited to be launching two more routes from Perth,” Joyce said.
“International travel demand continues to rebound as people make up for two years of closed borders. Our direct flights from Perth to London and Rome are selling really strongly, which gives us the confidence to add new routes from our western hub.
“Indonesia is a rapidly growing economy home to more than 270 million people, and these new flights will open up more trade and investment opportunities and a new gateway for travellers looking to explore Indonesia.”
The addition of Johannesburg and Jakarta will mean Qantas will operate international flights from Perth to five destinations, including London, Rome, and Singapore.
Fares for Perth-Johannesburg flights go on sale today starting from AUD1800 return. Fares for Perth-Jakarta go on sale today from AUD870 return.
Since borders have reopened, Qantas has now announced eight new international routes, including Perth to Rome, Darwin to Dili, Sydney to Seoul and Bengaluru, and Melbourne to Delhi and Dallas.
Flights are subject to government and regulatory approval.
SINGAPORE, 27 June 27, 2022: With the start of summer, scooping up one of Italy’s most famous desserts from Gelato onboard Discovery Princess, Enchanted Princess and Sky Princess just got a little sweeter.
The Princess Cruises gelato shops have been designated as Ospitalità Italiana, and are the first and only locations to offer an authentic Italian gelato experience outside of Italy.
The prestigious Ospitalità Italiana designation is issued by the Italian Chamber of Commerce committee, an organization of the Italian government. It confirms that every step of the gelato-making process meets or exceeds a strict set of standards as approved by official Italian auditors and experts, who review the process yearly. Only gelato shops that attain outstanding quality status are awarded the official Ospitalità Italiana certification.
Princess Cruises handcrafts its fresh Gelato with Italian-certified ingredients and equipment daily in the pastry kitchens onboard the cruise line’s three newest ships – Discovery Princess, Enchanted Princess and Sky Princess. Corporate pastry chef Eric Le Rouzic trained with the best Italian chefs at the Gelato Carpigiani University in Bologna and the Gelato Comprital Atheneum in Milano to master the art of making this heaven in a bowl. Princess uses top-of-line gelato machines by renowned manufacturer Carpigiani and the Gelato display cases were produced in Italy by expert craftsmen.
“The ‘Ospitalità Italiana’ is a tremendous extension of our Italian heritage and allows us to immerse our guests into the unique Italian culture found throughout Italy in our very own piazza,” said John Padgett, Princess Cruises president. “The designation also recognizes the incredible dedication of our pastry chefs and their passion for offering truly authentic experiences and the very best ingredients to our guests.”
Fun Fact – Gelato Isn’t Ice Cream
According to legend, the recipe for Gelato was popularized when architect Bernardo Buontalenti was asked to create a special confection for a member of the Medici noble family in the 16th century. Buontalenti mixed milk, eggs, sugar and extracts in a special machine surrounded by ice and salt, and egg cream-based gelato was born.
While it’s creamy, Gelato has less butterfat and fewer calories. The authentic Italian ingredients are combined with Princess’ freshly sourced fruit and are made each day with milk, not requiring the extra fat from cream that is needed in ice cream for longer shelf life. As a result, a scoop of Gelato is 80-100 calories, and the sorbet or “fruit gelato” has no fat and is only 50-60 calories, with no dairy.
Princess guests can choose from a variety of flavours – favourites like fior di latte (vanilla) and cioccolato (chocolate), to tiramisu, Nutella and caramello salato (salted caramel). The menu even offers dairy-free, fat-free sorbets and sugar-free Gelato. Guests can enjoy them by themselves, with toppings or in such tasty combinations as “affogato” (with liqueur) or “coppe,” including indulgent creations like nutellone (Nutella gelato, Nutella and whipped cream) or amaretto and peaches (amaretto gelato, fresh sliced peaches and meringue drops).
