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PATA Nepal Chapter celebrates 50 years

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Newsdesk
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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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Newsdesk
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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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Newsdesk
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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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Newsdesk
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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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Newsdesk
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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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Newsdesk
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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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Newsdesk
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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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Newsdesk
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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)

AAPA reports healthy November air trafffic

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Newsdesk
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KUALA LUMPUR, 6 January 2026: Preliminary November 2025 traffic figures released on Monday by the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA) showed continued strong growth in both international air passenger and cargo markets. 

Travel demand remained robust within the region and across key long-haul routes. At the same time, inventory restocking and increased e-commerce activity heading into the year-end festive season supported further expansion in air cargo demand.

Overall, the number of international passengers carried by Asia Pacific airlines increased by 8.3% year-on-year in November to a combined total of 32.9 million. Measured in revenue passenger kilometres (RPK), demand grew by 9% compared to the same month in 2024, outpacing the 8.0% expansion in available seat capacity. As a result, the average international passenger load factor rose by 0.8 percentage points to 83.2% for the month.

Reflecting increased export activity from Asian economies, particularly in Southeast Asia and India, Asia Pacific carriers recorded a 6.2% year-on-year increase in international air cargo demand, measured in freight tonne kilometres (FTK), in November. Offered freight capacity rose by 7.2% year-on-year, resulting in a marginal 0.6 percentage point decline in the average international freight load factor to 61.9% for the month.

Commenting on the results, AAPA Director General, Subhas Menon said: “Continued robust growth in both leisure and business travel propelled passenger demand higher in November, contributing to a solid 10% increase in the number of international passengers carried for the first eleven months of the year, to a total of 355 million.”

“Meanwhile, Asian carriers benefitted from strong demand for the timely shipment of goods, consistent with past traffic trends for this time of the year. Overall, air cargo demand remained resilient over the year, rising by 5.6% year-on-year for the first eleven months of 2025, as supply chains increasingly shifted towards other economies in Asia.”

Looking ahead, Menon concluded: “The overall outlook is positive, with passenger demand expected to record further growth in 2026. Intensifying market competition is placing pressure on yields, while airlines continue to face cost pressures arising from persistent supply chain challenges. Although the decline in oil prices provides some relief, airlines remain vigilant in managing costs to maintain profitability.”

(Source: AAPA)

Sarawak to host PATA Travel Mart 2026

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Your Stories
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BANGKOK, 6 January 2026: The PATA Travel Mart 2026 (PTM 2026) will take place in Sarawak, Malaysia, at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) from 18 to 20 August 2026. 

The event, endorsed by the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts of Sarawak, will be hosted by the Sarawak Tourism Board and supported by Business Events Sarawak.

Photo credit: PATA.

PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid stated, “We extend our sincere appreciation to the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak, the Sarawak Tourism Board (STB), and Business Events Sarawak for recognising the strategic importance of the tourism economy and for their commitment to hosting PATA Travel Mart 2026. As a long-standing and valued member, STB has consistently supported a wide range of collaborative initiatives over the years. PTM 2026 will not only align with the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign and PATA’s 75th Anniversary, but also mark STB’s 45th year of membership with the Association, making it a truly special occasion for Sarawak, PATA, and all participants.”

STB CEO Sharzede Datu Haji Salleh Askor added: “Hosting PATA Travel Mart 2026 is a milestone for Sarawak and a testament to our growing presence on the global tourism stage. It is our opportunity to present Sarawak’s cultural heritage, biodiversity, and business-ready infrastructure to the world, while underscoring our commitment to sustainable and regenerative tourism. This event complements Visit Malaysia 2026 and will strengthen our ties with international industry leaders, creating lasting partnerships that benefit our communities and tourism stakeholders.

Registration for PTM 2026 is now open. Interested parties are invited to register by contacting the PATA Events Department at [email protected].

About PATA Travel Mart
PATA Travel Mart is among the longest-running B2B travel trade exhibitions in the Asia Pacific region. The event provides a dynamic platform for connecting global buyers and sellers across a broad spectrum of the tourism sector. PTM 2026 is expected to welcome participants from over 60 destinations worldwide, facilitating more than 10,000 targeted business appointments during its two-day programme.

For more information on the event, visit the PATA Travel Mart 2026 page. 

(Source: PATA).

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