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Emirates: 2025 in review

By
Your Stories
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DUBAI, UAE, 5 January 2026: Emirates moved 55.6 million customers, circled Earth 29,290 times on nearly 180,580 flights, and placed orders for 73 new aircraft during 2025. 

Here are the highlights that defined 2025 for the world’s largest international airline:

Emirates A350 takes off

The first Emirates A350 entered commercial service in early January 2025 with its maiden journey to Edinburgh. The airline’s A350 network has expanded rapidly since then, and now 16 Emirates A350s fly to 18 cities, connecting travellers in comfort across Europe, West Asia, the Middle East, Australia, and, soon, the Americas, when it debuts in Montreal in February 2026.

Looking East

2025 saw Emirates double down on its footprint in Asia with the launch of two new Chinese mainland destinations – Shenzhen and Hangzhou – served by non-stop daily flights, as well as services to Danang in Vietnam, and Siem Reap, Cambodia via Bangkok. The airline has been working to serve growing travel and trade demand across East Asia and China as business activity grows across the region.

More Premium Economy

Throughout 2025, Emirates has been adding more of its next-generation Airbus A350, retrofitted Airbus A380 and Boeing 777 aircraft. They all feature the award-winning Emirates Premium Economy cabin across its network. Today, close to 70 cities are served by more than 100 aircraft offering the latest Emirates cabin interiors, constituting roughly 40% of the airline’s passenger fleet.

Lightning speed with Starlink 

Emirates announced the rollout of Starlink Wi-Fi across 232 aircraft at the Dubai Airshow in November. Starting with its Boeing 777s, the programme will quickly expand to make Emirates the world’s first airline with Starlink-equipped A380s in early 2026. 

Uniting fans through sport

Emirates announced nine major sports deals and renewals in 2025, positioning it as one of the world’s most visible sports sponsors through the 2030s. Its seven-year headline partnership with FC Bayern Munich made Emirates the Platinum Partner of the German football powerhouse and marked the airline’s high-profile return to the Bundesliga.

Emirates signed a historic contract extension with World Rugby through 2035, the longest commitment in the airline’s 40-year sponsorship history and the first-ever Platinum Partnership in rugby. It also inked a brand-new partnership with the European Professional Club Rugby (EPCR), backing the continent’s most prestigious club rugby competitions to connect the airline with over 70 million rugby fans worldwide.

Other notable deals included: becoming the Official Main Sponsor of Real Madrid Basketball; renewing its 18-year AC Milan partnership; extending its Olympique Lyonnais and ATP Tour partnerships through to 2030; and UAE Team Emirates XRG. These deals solidified Emirates’ sports portfolio spanning football’s elite clubs, international rugby, professional basketball, Grand Slam tennis and tournaments, professional cycling, and more.

Door-to-door Courier Express

Emirates launched Emirates Courier Express, setting new benchmarks in cross-border delivery by flying packages directly on its passenger fleet instead of routing through multiple hubs. Shortly after launch, Emirates Courier Express added Australia and Germany to its network, now serving 10 international markets, with further expansion planned in 2026. To date, the airline has handled over 50,000 packages and achieved an average delivery time of just three days across its lane pairs.

Emirates Skywards turns 25

Emirates Skywards marked its Silver Jubilee in 2025, complete with a special A380 livery and month-long activations for its members. The award-winning programme today boasts 37 million members across 190 countries. In the last 20 years, Skywards has distributed nearly 400 billion Miles through 100+ partners across 1,400 flight destinations and 30,000 hotels, with members now redeeming over 800 flight rewards daily and one upgrade every minute. This milestone underscores the programme’s place as one of the commercial aviation industry’s most valuable loyalty platforms, adding 78,000 new members weekly.

Fly better 

Over the last 12 months, Emirates elevated its premium and family travel experience with a suite of enhancements in the air and on the ground. In July, the airline opened Emirates First, an exclusive private check-in area at Terminal 3, Dubai International, featuring plush seating and modern ambience, complete with quick check-in while seated, for a sleek, smooth experience for First Class customers and Skywards Platinum members.

The airline also unveiled refined First-Class service details on board, including keepsake menus exploring wine heritage and culinary inspiration; Robert Welch-designed caviar presentation bowls for its unlimited caviar service, complemented by gloved service from cabin crew; and rustic slate cheeseboards with wooden accompaniments.

Investing in the highest levels of luxury hospitality, Emirates opened its Centre of Hospitality Excellence in Dubai to train nearly 25,000 cabin crew in Michelin-star-standard hospitality, featuring an immersive fine dining restaurant, presentation kitchens, and tech-enabled classrooms.

For more information on Emirates, visit: www.emirates.com. 

(Source: Your Stories — Emirates)

Historic flight positions Sarawak as the Borneo Gateway

By
Your Stories
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KUCHING, 5 January 2026: Sarawak’s historic flight from Tanjung Datu to Lawas, positioning Sarawak as the Gateway to Borneo, was officially unveiled as a Guinness World Records (GWR) achievement during the Countdown 2026 celebrations at the Kuching Waterfront. 

Recognised worldwide as the definitive authority on record-breaking achievements, Guinness World Records provides independent verification and global credibility to milestones achieved across countries, industries and cultures. 

Sarawak’s historic flight from Tanjung Datu to Lawas was officially unveiled as a Guinness World Records (GWR) achievement during the Countdown 2026 celebrations at the Kuching Waterfront.

The record-setting journey traversed Sarawak’s diverse landscapes and significant landmarks, symbolising the state’s scale, connectivity and ambition. Beyond its technological achievement, the initiative stands as a powerful symbol of Sarawak’s scale, connectivity and ambition, reinforcing its positioning as the Gateway to Borneo.

Achieving a Guinness World Records title places Sarawak among an international community of record-holders, reinforcing the state’s international standing while celebrating a moment of collective pride for its people.

“This achievement goes beyond setting a world record. It reflects Sarawak’s readiness to lead with bold ideas, innovation and confidence as we stepped into 2026,” said YB Dato Sri Haji Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Sarawak. “Announcing this Guinness World Record on New Year’s Eve is a strong signal of the momentum Sarawak is building as we prepare to welcome global travellers.”

The Guinness World Records announcement marked a meaningful moment of pride for Sarawakians during Countdown 2026, organised by the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak. 

For more information on Sarawak’s tourism visit: Sarawak Tourism Board. 

(Source: Your Stories — Sarawak Tourism Board)

Lot Polish announces Bangkok comeback

By
Newsdesk
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SINGAPORE, 5 January 2026: Poland’s national airline, Lot Polish, will resume flights to Bangkok, Thailand, on 26 October 2026, with the five-weekly service already on sale through the airline’s website and online travel agencies.

The airline last operated the Warsaw-Bangkok route in May 2000, using a Boeing 767-200ER, supported mainly by Polish tour operators. This time round, it is scheduling a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner with round-trip fares starting at EUR890 (USD930). 

Photo credit: Lot Polish Airlines. Bangkok will welcome the return of Lot Polish this October, after a 20-year gap.

Following the recent announcement of flights between Warsaw and San Francisco on 6 May 2026, LOT Polish Airlines confirmed it will resume service to Bangkok on 26 October 2026, in response to growing travel demand on routes to Southeast Asia for both tourists and business travellers.

The Warsaw-Bangkok route will operate year-round, departing Warsaw on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday, with a flight time of 10 hours and 20 minutes.

Flight schedule

LO65 will depart Warsaw (WAW) at 1425 and arrive in Bangkok (BKK) at 0645 plus a day. 
LO66 will depart Bangkok (BKK) at 0845 and arrive in Warsaw (WAW) at 1440. (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Sunday). Flight time is 11 hours and 55 minutes.

LOT Polish discontinued its Bangkok route 20 years ago to focus on launching more flights to North America. At the time, the airline said fare yields on the Bangkok route were weak compared with destinations in North America and subsequently limited services to just a few ad hoc seasonal charters mainly to Phuket in southern Thailand.

LOT offers direct long-haul flights to the US, Canada, India, Japan, and South Korea. It operates long-haul flights using Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners with 294 seats (252 economy, 21 business class and 21 premium economy).

(Source: TTRW)

New Year: Travel trends shaping 2026

By
Andrew Wood
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BANGKOK, 5 January 2026: As 2026 begins, travel is becoming more personal than ever, and two trends stand out in the headlines. 

After more than three decades in hospitality and extensive travel across Asia, I recognise holidays are no longer just about escape. Travel today reflects how people live, what they value, and who they want by their side as they explore the world in search of memorable experiences. 

The first emerging trend is the growing popularity of travelling with pets, which is now widely regarded as a form of family travel rather than as animal transport. The second is the rapid rise of fandom travel, particularly driven by music and pop culture, with K-pop at the forefront.

Travelling with pets, from niche to normal

Lucky enjoying a relaxed moment at Hyatt Regency Hua Hin, where pet-friendly hospitality extends to every member of the family.

During my many visits to hotels in Thailand, I have observed a steady increase in the number of guests travelling with pets. This is especially evident in resort destinations, where space, greenery, and relaxed environments make travelling with animals both practical and enjoyable.

It is essential to understand that this shift is driven by emotion rather than convenience. Many travellers now plan holidays around their pets’ needs. For them, leaving a dog or cat behind no longer feels right. Travel is about shared experiences, and pets are integral to that story.

A strong example of this thoughtful approach is Hyatt Regency Hua Hin. On several visits, I have seen the resort embrace pet-friendly travel in a way that feels natural and well-managed. Designated pet-friendly rooms are equipped with practical amenities, including pet beds, bowls, and towels, and offer easy access to outdoor areas. The beachfront setting is ideal for morning walks, and clear guidelines help ensure comfort and harmony for all guests.

What I find most encouraging is that this is not about merely allowing pets. It is about genuinely welcoming them. Hotels that do this well benefit from longer stays, repeat visits, and strong guest loyalty. Many pet owners are also willing to pay more for accommodation that reduces travel stress and allows their pets to enjoy the holiday.

Fandom travel and the power of pop culture

Bangkok has emerged as a central concert hub, with K-pop and live music events driving a new wave of fandom-led travel across Thailand.

Alongside pet-inclusive travel, I have also seen the rapid rise of fandom-driven journeys. Younger travellers in particular are planning trips around concerts, festivals, and pop culture events rather than traditional sightseeing.

K-pop has become one of the most powerful drivers of this movement. Fans are travelling specifically to attend concerts, participate in fan events, and experience destinations associated with their favourite artists. These trips are often spontaneous and emotionally charged, with visitors extending their stays to explore the city around the main event. Bangkok, in particular, has firmly positioned itself as a regional hub for large-scale concerts and fan gatherings.

K-Pop and Fandom are significantly impacting tourism.

From a tourism perspective, fandom travel is highly valuable. It encourages off-peak travel, generates intense social media exposure, and creates emotional bonds with destinations. Travel becomes a form of self-expression rather than simply a break from routine.

Looking ahead

2026 will see a growing shift towards slower, more intentional travel. Short wellness breaks, rail journeys, and nature-led escapes will continue to gain appeal as travellers actively seek balance rather than speed. I also observe a rising interest in multi-generational travel, in which families stay together for extended periods, blending work, rest, and reconnection. AI-assisted planning will become more intuitive and less visible, quietly helping travellers personalise journeys without overwhelming them. At the same time, sustainability will move beyond marketing language and become an expectation rather than a choice. Guests will increasingly look for hotels and destinations that demonstrate responsible practices in simple, practical ways rather than grand promises. The future of travel lies in experiences that feel calmer, more human, and genuinely aligned with how people want to live.

Emotional Future Trends That Matter

What links travelling with pets, fandom travel, and emerging lifestyle-led journeys is emotion. People want holidays that reflect who they are and what they care about. Technology may make planning easier, but emotion ultimately drives decision-making.

As we step into 2026, the most successful destinations and hotels will be those that listen closely to modern travellers and design experiences around real lives and real passions. Travel today is no longer separate from everyday life. It is an extension of it.

About the author
Andrew J Wood is a British-born travel writer, hospitality consultant, and former hotelier who has lived and worked in Asia for more than three decades. Based in Thailand since 1991, he has held senior leadership roles with international hotel groups. He is a former Director of Skål International, Past President of Skål International Asia, Skål International Thailand, and a two-time Past President of Skål International Bangkok. Andrew writes regularly for global travel and hospitality publications, focusing on tourism trends, sustainable development, and the evolving relationship between travel, culture, and community across the Asia-Pacific region.

(Source and photo credits: AJW)

Vietjet founder named Labour Hero

By
Newsdesk
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SINGAPORE, 5 January 2026: Dr Nguyen Thi Phuong Thao, Chairwoman of Vietjet, has been awarded the title of Labour Hero, one of Vietnam’s highest state honours, recognising her sustained contributions to national development and regional economic integration.

Over more than three decades, she has played a significant role in shaping Vietnam’s modern economic landscape across aviation, finance, investment, and technology. Her leadership has been marked by a consistent focus on disciplined growth, technology adoption, and governance frameworks aligned with long-term national and regional interests. 

Vietnam’s President Luong Cuong awards Hero of Labour title to Vietjet Chairwoman Dr Nguyen Thi Phuong Thao.

As the founder and leader of Vietjet, Vietnam’s first private airline, she has helped expand access to air travel while strengthening the country’s connectivity to major business and tourism hubs across Southeast Asia, Northeast Asia, Australia, and beyond. Vietjet has carried hundreds of millions of passengers, enabled millions of first-time flyers, and supported cross-border trade, investment, and cultural exchanges within the ASEAN region and beyond. 

In Singapore, Vietjet’s continued expansion has reinforced air links between Vietnam and one of Southeast Asia’s most important financial and commercial centres, supporting growing demand for business travel, tourism, and supply-chain mobility between the two markets.

Beyond aviation, Dr Nguyen Thi Phuong Thao has been closely involved in addressing complex infrastructure and system-level challenges through technology-driven solutions. These include digital transformation initiatives in aviation operations, the adoption of biometric technologies to improve passenger processing efficiency, the rapid deployment of technology platforms during the Covid-19 pandemic, and the stabilisation of the Ho Chi Minh City Stock Exchange’s trading system at a critical moment for market confidence.

(Source: Vietjet)

AirBorneo embarks on a new flight path

By
Newsdesk
-

KUCHING, 5 January 2026: The Sarawak government has officially confirmed that AirBorneo (formerly MASwings) has assumed full legal and operational responsibility effective 1 January 2026.

The state’s UKAS news unit reported that the  Minister for Transport, Sarawak, Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin, issued a statement emphasising “a phased transition and a commitment to maintaining existing services.”

Photo credit: AirBorneo.

While the legal transfer occurred on New Year’s Day, the official inaugural flights under the AirBorneo livery took place on 2 January  2026. The first flights departed from Kuching International Airport to Mukah (0825 and Tanjung Manis (0845).

AirBorneo will operate with a “dual mandate”, providing essential Rural Air Services (RAS) (subsidised by the federal government) while eventually expanding its role to become a commercial regional airline.

The Sarawak government also assured travellers that ticket prices and routes served by MASwings would remain unchanged to avoid disrupting communities that rely on these “lifeline” routes, according to the UKAS report.

It will take around six months to rebrand aircraft and support facilities to the new identity, AirBorneo. The state aims to introduce jet aircraft operations by the third quarter or end of 2026, pending regulatory approvals. International routes are planned for later in the year, including Singapore and Jeju Island, South Korea.

Dato Sri Lee said the Sarawak Government’s decision to establish AirBorneo reflects a development-driven approach, as aviation is known to generate strong multiplier effects through job creation, tourism growth and higher-value economic activities.

AirBorneo is different from other airlines. We operate on two aspects. One is the rural air services under public service obligation agreements, and the other is the commercial airline segment. All these aspects will be studied professionally to ensure sustainability in the long run,” he said.

Malaysia Aviation Group entered into a Sale and Purchase Agreement (SPA) with the Sarawak Government on 12 February 2025, leading up to AirBorneo assuming full legal and operational responsibility for all services previously operated by MASwings starting on 1 January 2026. 

This includes flight operations, customer service and the management of all passenger-related matters.

Established on 1 October 2007, MASwings was East Malaysia’s first dedicated commuter airline, created to address the air travel needs of Sabah, Sarawak and the Federal Territory of Labuan. The airline began operations with a fleet of four 50-seat Fokker 50 aircraft and four 19-seat Twin Otter aircraft, serving 22 destinations across the region. In 2009, the Fokker 50 fleet was progressively phased out and replaced with ATR 72-500 aircraft, enhancing operational efficiency, network reliability and the overall passenger experience.

Over its operational history, MASwings has operated over 430,000 flights and carried more than 19 million passengers across its network.  

(Source: UKAS and MAG)

Scoot adds flights to Chiang Rai

By
Newsdesk
-

CHIANG RAI, 5 January 2026: Chiang Rai welcomed Scoot’s direct flight from Singapore on New Year’s Day, the first international scheduled service to land at this far north Thai city since the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020. 

Serving the route five times weekly using an Embraer E190-E2 aircraft with 112 seats, TR670 departed Singapore Changi Airport on 1 January 1, 2026. It landed at Mae Fah Luang-Chiang Rai International Airport with a high load factor of 94%, the airline reported.

Photo credit: Scoot. Welcome reception at Chiang Rai.

Scoot is currently the only airline offering a direct connection between Singapore and Chiang Rai, re-establishing a link that had been vacant since 2020. AirAsia attempted to establish a direct route between the two cities but discontinued the service after a brief period between January 2019 and March 2020.

Scoot’s direct three-hour and 10-minute flight eliminates the need for a lengthy layover in Bangkok between connecting flights, which can take up the entire day before travellers reach their destination.

To support the launch, TAT’s marketing department in Bangkok is running joint marketing campaigns, including hosted trips for Singaporean influencers and travel agents to showcase attractions such as the White Temple (Wat Rong Khun), Doi Tung, Singha Park and local tea and coffee plantations.

Flights are scheduled from Singapore on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, with two weekly departures from Changi at 0550 and three at 1640.

Round-trip fares quoted on Kayak start at USD267 for travel in mid-February.

Flight Schedule 

TR660 departs Singapore (SIN) at 0550 and arrives in Chiang Rai at 0800. (Tuesday and Saturday).
TR661 departs Chiang Rai (CEI) at 0835 and arrives in Singapore (SIN) at 1255.

TR670 departs Singapore (SIN) at 1640 and arrives in Chiang Rai (CEI) at 1850. (Monday, Thursday and Friday).
TR671 departs Chiang Rai (CEI) at 1925 and arrives in Singapore (CEI) at 2345.

(Source: Scoot and TTRW)

STB suspends Sunshine Tours & Travel

By
Newsdesk
-

SINGAPORE, 5 January 2026: Singapore Tourism Board has suspended Sunshine Tours & Travel Pte Ltd’s travel agency licence (03583) from conducting travel agent activities with effect from 31 December 2025, in accordance with the Travel Agents Act 1975.

The STB statement noted that the suspension was due to the company’s failure to submit its Audited Statement of Accounts (AA) and Annual Business Profile Returns (ABPR). Under the Travel Agents Regulations 2017, licensees must submit these documents within six months after the close of their financial year. 

Photo credit: TRUST.

The suspensions will remain in effect until the documentation is submitted or for up to six months, whichever is earlier. During the suspension period, Sunshine Tours & Travel must fulfil its existing obligations to customers but may not accept new travel bookings.

STB said it “takes a serious view against errant travel agents and will not hesitate to take necessary actions to protect the reputation of Singapore’s travel industry. Any travel agent accepting new bookings during the suspension period will face enforcement action.”

For the most up-to-date list of licensed travel agents in Singapore, visit the Travel Related Users’ System (“TRUST”) website, TRUST.  

(Source: STB)

LANGKAWI: Video Storytelling

By
TTR WEEKLY
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Discover the ancient wonders of Langkawi, where fossils of trilobites tell a story dating back 550 million years, long before the age of the dinosaurs. Home to the oldest rocks in Malaysia and Southeast Asia, Langkawi offers a unique and awe-inspiring journey through time. Come and explore this extraordinary island, a geological treasure like no other

#NaturallyLangkawi #LangkawiGeopark #99magicalislands #LangkawiBestWey #Malaysia #MalaysiaTrulyAsia #Langkawi #island #SouthEastAsiaTrip #ThingstodoinMalaysia #travel #trilobite

Welcome 2026 with an Unforgettable Celebration at Royal Cliff Pattaya

By
Your Stories
-

As the year draws to a close, now is the perfect moment to secure an unforgettable New Year celebration at Royal Cliff Hotels Group. With only a limited number of rooms and Gala Dinner tables remaining, we invite you to book soon and welcome 2026 in style.

Book the Royal Wellness & Sports Package and stay from now until 31 January 2026, and enjoy an exclusive extra benefit: a THB 720 Supersports shopping voucher, perfect for enhancing your active lifestyle during the New Year celebrations. 

Blending comfort, recreation and revitalising experiences, this package is ideal for guests looking to welcome the new year feeling refreshed, recharged and inspired.

To book the package, please visit https://www.royalcliff.com/promotion/royal-wellness-sports-package/ 

The Lost World Luxe Gala

New Year’s Eve Party

  • 31 December 2025
  • At Poolside, Royal Cliff Beach Hotel
  • 7:00 PM Onwards
  • THB 6,500++ per person
  • 50% discount for children aged 4 – 12 years.

Welcome 2026 in grand style with an unforgettable New Year’s Eve celebration set amidst a world of prehistoric adventure. Encounter mighty T-Rexes, radiant raptors, and lush jungle-inspired décor as you dine and dance beneath the stars. Indulge in a sumptuous international grand buffet featuring premium seafood, prime cuts, pizzas and decadent desserts. Enjoy spectacular live entertainment, dazzling performances, interactive games and breathtaking sea views. As midnight approaches, raise your glass to  the New Year and witness a grand fireworks display illuminating the night sky.

For more information or to reserve a table for the Lost World Luxe Gala New Year’s Eve Party, please visit: https://www.royalcliff.com/new-year-buffet-dinner/ 

Fireworks New Year Countdown Package

  • 31 December 2025
  • At Poolside, Royal Cliff Beach Hotel
  • 11:30 PM Onwards
  • THB 1,500++ per person (book and pay before 31 December 2025)
    THB 2,000++ per person (book and pay on 31 December 2025)
  • 50% discount for children aged 4 – 12 years.

For a more relaxed way to welcome the New Year, enjoy an evening of sparkle and celebration with the Fireworks New Year Countdown Package. Sit back, soak in the festive atmosphere, and watch the spectacular fireworks light up the sky while savouring your favourite drink.

Package includes:

  • A Choice of One Glass of Sparkling Wine, Cocktail or Mocktail
  • Music Throughout the Night
  • Spectacular Fireworks Display at Midnight

For more information or to reserve a ticket for the Fireworks New Year Countdown Package, please visit: https://www.royalcliff.com/fireworks-new-year-countdown/ 

The Festive Haunted House

30 December 2025

At Sapphire Room, Royal Cliff Beach Hotel

2:00 – 6:00 PM

THB 150 net per person

Step into a world where festive cheer lingers and the year’s final night is touched by playful mischief. Our Festive Haunted House takes you through enchanting, mysterious rooms filled with twinkling lights, curious surprises, and gentle thrills. With shadowy figures emerge in the darkness, it is a wonderfully spooky adventure for families and children before welcoming the New Year.

For more information or to reserve a ticket for the Festive Haunted House, please visit: https://www.royalcliff.com/news/the-haunted-house/ 

Availability is limited, we encourage you to book now to avoid disappointment.

For reservations, please contact Royal Cliff’s Guest Relations Department at  (+66) 38 250 421,  email [email protected],  or connect with us on  LINE @Royalcliff or WhatsApp +66 84 228 9596.

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