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Scoot kicks off 2026 with special fares

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BANGKOK, 8 January 2026: Scoot, the low-cost airline subsidiary of Singapore Airlines (SIA), is welcoming 2026 with special fares, inviting customers to start the year with affordable travel across Asia, with one-way fares from Thailand starting at just THB1,420.

The limited-time promotion covers many popular destinations via Singapore, such as Tokyo, Bali, and Sydney, reinforcing Scoot’s commitment to delivering value and flexibility. 

Photo credit: Scoot: Embraer E190-E2 aircraft.

Special one-way fares from Thailand

  • Chiang Rai – Singapore from THB2,500 (new route)
  • Phuket – Singapore from THB1,420
  • Bangkok – Singapore from THB1,550
  • Chiang Mai – Singapore from THB3,100
  • Samui – Singapore from THB3,250

Complementing the January Travel Deal, Scoot has also recently launched its Chiang Rai–Singapore service. The new route commenced on 1 January 2026 and is operated by the Embraer E190-E2 aircraft with five weekly flights. 

One-way fares to popular regional destinations, including taxes

Bangkok – Taipei from THB2,800
Bangkok – Tokyo (Narita / Haneda) from THB5,000
Bangkok – Osaka from THB5,000
Bangkok – Jakarta from THB2,200
Bangkok – Bali from THB3,000
Bangkok – Sydney from THB6,200

All flights will include a stopover in Singapore.

Ticket sales are open until 13 January 2026 (2359 GMT+7) via Scoot’s website and mobile application for travel between 24 February and 24 October 2026. 

The airline emphasised that the sale and introduction of the Chiang Rai–Singapore route underscored Scoot’s long-term commitment to Thailand, supporting both leisure and business travel, offering greater flexibility, and strengthening regional and international connectivity through Singapore.

(Source: Scoot)

MAI flies to Nanning in China

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SINGAPORE, 8 January 2026: Myanmar Airways International introduced a new weekly flight between Yangon, Myanmar, and Nanning, China, effective 7 January.

The weekly service scheduled every Wednesday follows a special inaugural flight operated on Tuesday, 30 December 2025, between Yangon’s international airport and Nanning Wuxi International Airport in southern China.

Photo credit: MAI. The inaugural flight to Nanning.

The inaugural flight was welcomed with a water cannon salute, and passengers received special commemorative gifts to mark the occasion.

Nanning is the capital of Guangxi, a region in southern China near the border with Vietnam. Nanning Wuxi International Airport is 32 km from the regional capital.

Myanmar Airways International operates two routes in mainland China, with direct flights from Yangon using its A321 aircraft, configured with 134 seats. In addition to the  Nanning flights, it serves Guangzhou (CAN) with departures from Yangon on Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Sunday.

Nanning flight schedule

8M720 departs Yangon (RGN) at 1700 and arrives in Nanning (NNG) at 2100 (Wednesday)
8M791 departs Nanning (NNG) at 2200 and arrives in Yangon (RGN) at 2315( Wednesday)

MAI promotes the service on its Facebook page, but flight details and fares to Nanning are not live on its website or booking page. However, on Skyscanner, the flights and fares are active, with the starting fare for the two-hour and 30-minute flight flagged at USD133 one-way and USD277 round-trip.

Deks Air reps in Singapore

MAI has expanded its Singapore sales by appointing Deks Air Pte Ltd as its General Sales Agent (GSA) to undertake the airline’s sales, marketing and support services for travel agents, trade partners & passengers in the region. MAI operates 17 weekly flights between Yangon and Singapore. 

(Source: MAI)

PATA Nepal Chapter celebrates 50 years

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SINGAPORE, 7 January 2026: The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) Nepal Chapter celebrated its Grand Golden Jubilee, marking 50 years of supporting Nepal’s tourism development, at an anniversary event hosted at the Royal Tulip Kathmandu on 29 December 2025.

The milestone brought together senior government officials, tourism leaders, former chairpersons, private sector pioneers, international partners, and industry professionals to reflect on five decades of leadership since the Chapter’s establishment in 1975.

PATA Nepal Chapter Chairman Khem Lakai.

The ceremony was inaugurated by Anil Kumar Sinha, Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, Government of Nepal, who commended the PATA Nepal Chapter for its significant role in tourism planning, policy advocacy, marketing, human capital development, and tourism recovery initiatives over the years.

In a video clip, PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid congratulated the PATA Nepal Chapter on its exemplary contribution to the global PATA network. The celebration opened with welcome music by Sursudha, followed by a cultural dance performance by PATA Nepal Chapter’s Young Tourism Professionals (YTPs), reflecting Nepal’s rich culture and the dynamism of the next generation of tourism leaders.

PATA Nepal Chapter Chairman Khem Lakai expressed gratitude to all past and present leaders — from the founding chairman to the immediate past chairmen — and thanked members and partners for their continued trust throughout the Chapter’s 50-year journey.

Annual Awards

As part of the Golden Jubilee, PATA Nepal Chapter presented its Annual Awards 2025.

• Lifetime Achievement Award to Karna Sakya for his contribution to tourism, sustainability, conservation, and hospitality in Nepal.

• Tourism Trail Blazer Award to Shiva Dhakal for his leadership in community-based and sustainable tourism.

• Tourism Personality of the Year to Bijay Amatya, CEO, Kora Tours, for his consistent contribution to Nepal’s tourism industry and the PATA Nepal Chapter.

• Special Contribution Award to Anthony Lindsay Jones for his pioneering role in rafting, adventure, and cultural tourism in Nepal.

(Source: PATA Nepal Chapter)

Cox & Kings revives ‘Duniya Dekho’ tours

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DELHI, 7 January 2026: Cox & King, one of India’s most trusted travel brands, has officially relaunched its legendary ‘Duniya Dekho’ group tour series, a programme that once shaped how Indians discovered the world together. 

As the original custodian of ‘Duniya Dekho’, the brand brings back this beloved offering under its renewed identity following its acquisition by global private equity firm Wilson & Hughes. 

Initially launched in the 2000s, the tours became a household name across metros and smaller towns alike. It stood for something simple yet powerful: the comfort of travelling the world with expert tour managers, predictable budgets, Indian meals abroad, seamless visas and itineraries crafted for first-time overseas travellers.

The revived ‘Duniya Dekho’ introduces a new set of experiences tailored for diverse traveller groups, multi-generational families, seniors seeking safe, structured itineraries, young couples seeking a balance of freedom and guidance, and first-time international travellers who want dependable planning without complexity. The new itineraries retain the trust and familiarity travellers remember but bring a contemporary upgrade.

Speaking on the relaunch, Cox & Kings director, Karan Agarwal, said: “Duniya Dekho was never just a product, it was a comfort system for Indian travellers. As we bring it back, we’ve reimagined it for a generation that values transparency, ease, and deeper cultural experiences.”

The enhanced programme focuses on stronger value planning, guaranteed departures, smoother digital itineraries, smaller, more interactive group sizes, and broader destination coverage across Europe, Japan, Dubai, Vietnam, and more. With the operational backing of Wilson & Hughes, there is also a renewed push on service reliability and customer satisfaction, a core ethos of the brand’s rebuilding phase.

As Indian travellers look for safer, seamless, and culturally familiar ways to explore the world again, the return of Duniya Dekho arrives at an opportune moment. For many, it marks not just the relaunch of a tour series but the comeback of a trusted companion that once made global travel feel welcoming, simple, and endlessly exciting.

About Cox & Kings
Cox & Kings, now acquired by private equity firm Wilson & Hughes, has a legacy dating back over 260 years. Founded in 1758, the brand has long been a pioneer in curated leisure, business, and specialised travel. The acquisition also marks Wilson & Hughes’ deeper entry into the consumer space, following years of strong performance and credibility built in the global manufacturing sector.

(Source: Cox & Kings)

Disney Adventure sails to Singapore

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SINGAPORE, 7 January 2026: Disney Adventure has departed the Bremerhaven shipyard in Germany on its voyage to Singapore, where it will homeport and offer cruises in Asia, WDW News Today reports.

The specialised online news service covering Disney parks and cruises reports that Disney Adventure’s maiden voyage is scheduled for 10 March 2026, with the homeporting agreement in Singapore extending for five years.

CREDIT: WDW News Today. New Videos Show Disney Adventure Officially En Route to Singapore for Maiden Voyage. https://wdwnt.news/606_01

“The Disney Cruise Line ship began its life as the Global Dream, commissioned by Genting Hong Kong’s Dream Cruises. Construction began in 2018, but Genting collapsed before the ship could be finished. Disney Cruise Line purchased it in 2022. It will be Disney’s largest cruise ship, accommodating approximately 6,000 passengers and will operate exclusively out of Singapore,” according to the WDWNT report.

Cruise sales take off in Singapore

In Singapore this week, Chan Brothers Travel Club hosts its Worldwide Cruise Centre Disney Cruise Line Roadshow at Marina Square, Level 2, Central Court, 1030 to 2100, 8 to 11 January. Up for grabs are SGD100 cruise coupons for each cabin booked on three-day, four-night cruises from March to December 2026. Cruise prices start at SGD746. 

(Source: WDWNT and Chan Brothers)

Starlux takes delivery of first Airbus A350-1000

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SINGAPORE, 7 January 2026: Taiwan’s Starlux Airlines has taken delivery of its first of 18 A350-1000s, becoming the 11th global operator of the largest version of the A350. 

The new A350-1000 will join a fleet of 10 A350-900s already in service, deployed on long-haul services from Taipei to Europe and North America, as well as selected destinations within the Asia-Pacific region. 

Photo credit: Airbus. Starlux’s first A350-1000.

To mark the arrival of its newest fleet member, the airline has unveiled a new livery that reflects both innovation and identity. The design integrates the airline’s signature visual elements with a carbon-fibre motif, representing the advanced composite materials integral to the aircraft’s construction. The prominent ‘1000’ emblazoned on the fuselage highlights the aircraft’s designation as the largest in-production Airbus model, now serving as the airline’s new flagship.

Starlux currently operates an all-Airbus fleet comprising the A321neo, the A330-900, and the A350-900 aircraft. The new A350-1000 will seamlessly complement the airline’s existing fleet. 

The A350’s all-new design incorporates state-of-the-art technologies and aerodynamics, delivering unmatched operational efficiency and passenger comfort. Its new-generation engines and use of lightweight materials enable a 25% reduction in fuel burn, operating costs, and carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions compared to previous-generation competitor aircraft. The A350 is equipped with a spacious cabin, wide seats, high ceilings and ambient lighting. 

The A350 aircraft can operate with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). Airbus aims to have its arcraft 100% SAF-capable by 2030.

(Source: Airbus)

SalamAir flies to Damascus

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MUSCAT, Oman, 7 January 2026: SalamAir, Oman’s low-cost carrier, has opened ticket sales for its new direct flights between Muscat and Damascus, Syria, scheduled to begin on 2 May 2026.

The airline will operate twice-weekly flights on Wednesdays and Saturdays. 

Photo credit: SalamAir.

Damascus is renowned for its historic old city, traditional markets, and rich architectural heritage. It serves as an important hub for commerce, education, and public institutions.  

The addition of Damascus aligns with SalamAir’s ongoing network expansion strategy, which focuses on meeting demand for direct, affordable regional travel. The route is designed to serve the Syrian community in Oman while also strengthening connectivity through Muscat, enabling efficient onward access to SalamAir’s wider network.    

Commenting on the launch, SalamAir’s Chief Commercial Officer Steven Allen said: “Choosing Damascus to be our next route, and to be the first Omani airline to operate to Syria, reflects our strategic and commercially driven approach to network expansion. This service has been carefully designed to meet clear travel needs between Oman and Syria. By enhancing international air connectivity from our home in Muscat, the Damascus route supports the objectives of Oman Vision 2040, while remaining aligned with our planning framework to ensure sustainable growth, operational reliability, and value for our customers.” 

Damascus is the fourth new destination announced in recent weeks, joining Port Sudan, Medan, and Vienna as destinations to be served from Muscat in 2026.         

Flights to Damascus are now available for booking on the airline’s website and mobile app, with base fares starting at OMR59.99.  

About SalamAir 
SalamAir commenced operations in 2017 and currently operates a fleet of 15 Airbus A320/A321 aircraft, with over 80 daily flights to 38 destinations. SalamAir estimates it has flown over 4 million passengers in 2025, a 25% increase from 3.2 million in 2024. In February 2025, SalamAir announced an order for 10 additional aircraft, with deliveries commencing in Q2 2026. It aims to grow its fleet to 25 aircraft by 2028. 

(Source: SalamAir)

Khiri Travel GSTC-certified across Asia

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BANGKOK, 7 January 2026: Asian destination management company Khiri Travel is now Global Sustainable Tourism Council-certified across all destinations where it operates.

The certification applies to all eight countries where Khiri offers services: Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, the Philippines, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, and Sri Lanka. 

Khiri Travel is now GSTC-certified across all its destinations.

Khiri Travel was officially GSTC-certified on 18 December 2025.

Khiri Travel met the standards as assessed by the GSTC-accredited certification body Control Union. The audit process reviewed not only office practices but also field operations and included interviews with Khiri Travel’s local partners and suppliers.

Willem Niemeijer 

Khiri Travel CEO and founder Willem Niemeijer commented: “Certification shows that Khiri is walking the talk on making tourism a force for social and environmental good. It is proof of our commitment to upholding the 4Cs of regenerative travel as defined by The Long Run: conservation, community, culture and commerce.”

In 2025, 14 Khiri Travel staff, including ‘Green Team’ spokespersons across eight Asian countries, also earned the person-based GSTC Professional Certificate in Sustainable Tourism.

(Source: Khiri Travel)

HK welcomes Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants

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HONG KONG, 7 January 2026: For the first time in its history, Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants, sponsored by S Pellegrino & Acqua Panna, will take place in Hong Kong, one of the region’s most dynamic and internationally celebrated culinary destinations.

In collaboration with host destination partner, Hong Kong Tourism Board, the 2026 edition will unite the region’s leading chefs, restaurateurs, and food media for a multi-day programme of events culminating in the highly anticipated awards ceremony on 25 March 2026. The 2025 celebrations saw ‘Gaggan’ in Bangkok crowned victor.

Photo credit HKTB.

A handpicked academy of more than 350 restaurant industry experts in Asia, with a 50/50 gender split, will cast their votes for Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants. Deloitte will independently adjudicate proceedings. 

A spokesperson for Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants says: “We are delighted to bring Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants to Hong Kong for the first time. The city has long offered an unparalleled dining landscape that blends tradition, innovation and global influence. As one of the most exciting food cities in Asia, Hong Kong represents the perfect setting to celebrate the region’s extraordinary culinary diversity. Its world-class dining scene, driven by creativity, craft and innovation, continues to inspire chefs and diners across Asia and beyond.”

Hong Kong Tourism Board, Executive Director Anthony Lau stated: “We are thrilled to host Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants in Hong Kong this March for the very first time, highlighting the deepening partnership between HKTB and 50 Best. Hong Kong has long been one of the world’s most sought-after dining destinations, blending culinary cultures from around the globe to offer diverse and exciting gastronomic experiences. We look forward to welcoming top chefs, representatives from the culinary industry, and tastemakers from across Asia to Hong Kong this March to celebrate the outstanding achievements of our region’s culinary scene.”

The countdown of Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants will also be broadcast live to a global audience. Food lovers worldwide can attend the event through the 50 Best YouTube channel.

(Source: HKTB and Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants)

Visionary concepts fly at Bangkok Airways

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BANGKOK, 6 January 2026: Bangkok Airways rolls out its new corporate vision, ‘Leading Aviation with Responsibility, Delivering Services with Sustainability’. 

The vision reflects the airline’s strategic direction to advance its fully integrated aviation business amid evolving economic conditions, industry dynamics, societal expectations, technological advancements, international standards, and increasing global sustainability challenges.

Photo credit: Bangkok Airways. Bold new vision: On the ground and in the air.

“This vision serves as a key framework guiding the organisation’s operations in alignment with the current business landscape, while supporting long-term growth,” said Bangkok Airways Public Company Limited President Puttipong Prasarttong-Osoth. “It brings together Bangkok Airways’ strengths as a fully integrated aviation service provider with responsible business practices and sustainable development principles, enabling the company to advance its corporate strategy tangibly and comprehensively.”

Under the concept ‘Leading Aviation with Responsibility’, the company conducts its aviation business responsibly across all dimensions. This includes enhancing safety standards, managing costs and resources efficiently, and strengthening partnerships to generate sustainable returns and balanced growth.

At the same time, ‘Delivering Services with Sustainability’ underscores Bangkok Airways’ dedication to service excellence while minimising environmental impact, thereby supporting long-term, sustainable business growth.

“To achieve this vision, Bangkok Airways has established ‘5S core missions’ as guiding principles for operations: Safety, Service, Staff, Synergy, and Sustainability. These pillars aim to strengthen competitiveness, create shared value for all stakeholders, and propel the organisation toward becoming a globally recognised leader in sustainable aviation,” the airline president concluded.

(Source: Bangkok Airways)

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