SINGAPORE, 10 January 2025: Digital travel platform Agoda has ranked the top 10 pet-friendly travel destinations in Asia, highlighting the growing trend for travellers to book accommodations that welcome pets.
The list, calculated based on the average number of accommodations allowing pets, reveals cities in Vietnam dominate the list, securing four out of 10 spots.
Photo credit: Agoda.
Danang (Vietnam) leads the pack, followed by Cebu (Philippines), Hanoi (Vietnam), Nha Trang (Vietnam), and Tainan (Taiwan) to complete the top five. Pattaya (Thailand), Taichung (Taiwan), Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnam), New Delhi (India), and Manila (Philippines) round out the top 10.
According to a recent study by Allied Market Research, pet travel is on the rise in Asia, with Millennials and Gen Z leading the charge as they embrace pet parenthood and splurge on their furry friends.
Agoda saw a 64% growth in pet-friendly properties last year, making it easier than ever for pets to join their owners on travel adventures in comfort and style.
Agoda Country Director Vietnam Lam Vu shared: “At Agoda, we understand that pets are family too. Our latest ranking of pet-friendly cities is a testament to our commitment to making travel inclusive for everyone, including our four-legged friends.”
SINGAPORE, 9 January 2025: Emirates’ Airbus A380, the world’s largest passenger aircraft, has touched down in Copenhagen for the first time since March 2020.
Emirates is currently the only international airline that operates the A380 to Denmark. The A380 touched down just in time to celebrate the airport’s jubilee, marking 100 years of operational excellence.
Emirates’ Country Manager in Denmark, Morten Balk said: “We are incredibly proud to bring back the Emirates A380 to Copenhagen. What a sight to see it gracing our runway again. We look forward to once again offering our customers unparalleled travel experiences and the signature products and services our A380 is known for. With more than 43% additional seating, customers will enjoy greater flexibility and more travel options to over 140 destinations worldwide via our home and hub, Dubai.”
Copenhagen Airport CCO Peter Krogsgaard commented: “We have been looking forward to welcoming the iconic Emirates double-decker aircraft back to Copenhagen. It’s a fantastic way to start the new year, seeing the world’s largest passenger plane, with 615 seats, return to Denmark after a nearly five-year hiatus.”
Unmatched travel experiences
Emirates is renowned for its exceptional services and luxurious amenities. Customers love the Emirates A380 for its spacious and comfortable cabins, quietness, and unique onboard features such as the Onboard Lounge.
Customers onboard will also enjoy the warm hospitality of the airline’s multinational crew, including Danish nationals, regional gourmet cuisine, and award-winning inflight entertainment system – ice – offering up to 6,500 channels of the best movies, TV shows, podcasts and more. The airline also recently expanded its entertainment catalogue, collaborating with Spotify – the world’s most popular audio-streaming subscription service – to offer customers a wide array of podcasts and playlists in the sky.
Connecting Copenhagen to the world
The airline’s daily A380 flight will depart Copenhagen at 1445 and arrive in Dubai at 0010 local time. The return flight, EK151, will depart Dubai at 0830 and arrive in Copenhagen at 1230 local time. Danish customers can connect to more than 140 destinations, including popular holiday hotspots such as Bali, Mauritius, and South Africa. The airline recently expanded its global network by restarting services to Phnom Penh in Cambodia via Singapore and announced new routes to Bogotá via Miami and Madagascar via the Seychelles.
The Emirates A380 serving Copenhagen will operate in a two-class configuration, offering customers 58 lie-flat seats in business class and 557 spacious seats in economy class.
For flight information and to make a booking visit: www.emirates.com.
BANGKOK, 9 January 2025: Centara Hotels & Resorts, Thailand’s leading hotel operator, has unveiled the new-look Centara Karon Resort Phuket. Following a renovation that transformed every aspect of the guest experience, the resort has started welcoming travellers back.
Close to the sands of Karon Beach facing the Andaman Sea, Centara Karon Resort Phuket is a haven of tranquillity and adventure. Following its dramatic revitalisation, the resort now invites visitors to unwind in three distinct zones — The Terrace, The Lagoon, and The Tropicale—creating options for couples, families, and friends alike.
With a contemporary design that harmoniously blends a soothing colour palette with geometric patterns and natural elements, the resort’s newly refreshed accommodation is tailored to the needs of every guest. Highlights include The Terrace’s spacious rooms, which feature balconies with views of the city or sea. Set to be unveiled by the end of 2025, the one to three-bedroom Pool Villas will be spectacular sanctuaries with outdoor pools and a dedicated check-in area – ideal for romantic getaways or grand celebrations with up to eight guests.
An eclectic mix of activities and experiences makes this the ultimate tropical oasis for all ages. Immersive adventures unfold at the resort’s 3,000-square-metre pool zone, with three separate pools for adults and kids, plus thrilling water slides and fountains. Children and teens can find inspiration at the Chang Dee Kids’ Club or E-Zone, with a full schedule of activities and games. Parents can also enjoy personal moments, including therapies at the signature SPA Cenvaree or invigorating workouts at the fully-equipped fitness centre.
Centara Karon Resort Phuket is the perfect place to embark on a culinary journey. A trio of tropical pool bars – Tropix, Koh Kool, and Splash – set the scene for daytime refreshments, from fruit smoothies to cool cocktails, while Pink Social provides a chic spot to socialise. For memorable meals, Bistro Grill & Bar presents a range of international and Thai favourites throughout the day, while modern global cuisine and grilled specialities take centre stage at Escape Pool Club.
For curious explorers who want to explore Phuket’s wonders, the powder-soft sands of Karon Beach are just a short walk away. Several golf courses are within easy reach, and Phuket’s heritage-rich Old Town, with its Sino-Portuguese architecture and vibrant night markets, is just 15km away.
“We are delighted to reveal the newly transformed Centara Karon Resort Phuket. With its perfect blend of daytime excitement and private serenity, this breathtaking resort will ensure unforgettable escapes for guests, from fun-seeking families to couples who crave privacy. I would like to invite our cherished visitors from around the world to come and experience the beauty of Phuket and Centara’s warm, Thai hospitality,” said Centara Hotels & Resorts Vice President of Operations and General Manager of Centara Karon Resort Phuket David Martens.
Travellers can now discover the reimagined Centara Karon Resort Phuket with an exclusive reopening offer: “A Star is Reborn“. This enticing package lets kids stay and dine for free, offering THB500 of daily resort credit, early check-in, late check-out, and a complimentary minibar (refreshed daily). Centara The1 members will enjoy an additional 15% discount and triple points. Not a member yet? Sign up for free via centara1card.com.
BANGKOK, 9 January 2025: In a recent report by the Deloitte Thailand team, Thailand is set to shine in 2025 as its tourism industry prepares to play a pivotal role in the nation’s economy.
The “Land of Smiles” is evolving to meet global and domestic challenges with resilience and creativity. Tourism, a key pillar of Thailand’s GDP, is estimated to generate USD67 billion in 2025, with 36 to 39 million visitors expected for the year up from around 34 million in 2024.
Photo credit: Andrew Wood. Bangkok’s riverside skyline.
However, the industry faces pressing issues, such as climate change. Rising temperatures threaten popular outdoor attractions, but Thailand is not backing down.
According to Deloitte Thailand Executive Director Dr Narain Chutijirawong, tourism is poised to drive the country’s economic growth in 2025.
2025: Tough climate change challenges
Creative solutions, such as shaded outdoor spaces, innovative indoor cultural hubs, and climate-resilient infrastructure, have been recommended to ensure Thailand remains a top destination. One of the brightest prospects is the growth of “creative tourism,” which includes interactive museums, performing arts, and music venues. These offerings could attract more visitors while diversifying Thailand’s appeal beyond beaches and temples.
The Thailand Development Research Institute has also emphasised the urgent need to adapt tourism infrastructure to climate change. By blending tradition with innovation, Thailand creates unique experiences that cater to travellers seeking something different, reinforcing its reputation as a forward-thinking destination.
However, challenges remain. Climate adaptation is only one piece of the puzzle. Economically, Thailand must navigate shifting global trade dynamics, including potential US tariff increases and resource shortages. Despite these hurdles, the country’s low inflation and stable monetary policies provide a strong foundation for growth.
The tourism industry must also embrace advanced technologies to enhance efficiency and deliver personalised experiences for visitors. Deloitte experts recommend businesses set clear goals and adopt technologies, including AI, responsibly, ensuring proper workforce training and robust data security measures.
Thailand’s ability to thrive in 2025 will depend on its commitment to sustainability, innovation, and strategic planning. By addressing challenges head-on and building on its cultural and natural strengths, Thailand is poised to remain one of the world’s favourite destinations while shaping a brighter, more resilient future.
PATTAYA Thailand, 9 January 2025: Javier Gimeno, a hospitality veteran with three decades of industry experience in Asia and Europe, takes charge of the new Meliá Pattaya Hotel.
The 234-room and suite hotel is scheduled to open in the first quarter of 2025 in the heart of Pattaya, a 138 km transfer from Bangkok (a one hour and 34 minutes drive).
He joined Meliá Pattaya Hotel after having worked in senior management roles with Marriott International for over a decade. Most recently, he was the cluster general manager with Marriott & Four Points by Sheraton Tianjin National Convention and Exhibition Centre in Tianjin, China.
His assignments in Asia go back to 2000, when he worked in Shanghai, China, before becoming a general manager with Barceló Hotels & Resorts in Davao, Philippines, in 2002. His career has also taken him to Hong Kong and Malaysia.
DOHA Qatar, 9 January 2025: Qatar Executive (QE), the luxury private jet charter division of Qatar Airways Group, has taken delivery of two additional Gulfstream G700 aircraft, taking its total fleet size to 24.
The two additional aircraft will increase the Gulfstream G700 in QE’s fleet to six, with a further four G700s scheduled for delivery throughout 2025 and early 2026. QE’s fleet also includes 15 Gulfstream G650ER aircraft.
Photo credit: Qatar Airways.
The aircraft will help to position QE as a leader in luxury long-range travel and private aviation.
With its luxurious cabin, innovative technology, increased fuel efficiency, and long-range capabilities, the QE Gulfstream G700 is a stand-out choice in private business aviation charter.
SINGAPORE, 9 January 2025: Travelport, a global technology company that powers bookings for travel suppliers worldwide, has signed a new long-term multi-source content agreement, including New Distribution Capability (NDC) content with China Eastern Airlines.
Travelport’s NDC solution will enable travel agency customers to shop, book and manage NDC reservations with China Eastern Airlines, including servicing adjustments such as cancellations and exchanges.
Photo credit: China Eastern Airlines.
An AI-driven Content Curation Layer (CCL) and Content Optimizer in Travelport+ streamline the search process, delivering intelligent, relevant and enriched NDC and traditional content quickly and efficiently.
Meanwhile, China Eastern Airlines started using China’s domestically produced C919 jetliner between Shanghai and Hong Kong on Wednesday, making it the first airline to use the C919 for scheduled commercial flights to Hong Kong.
HONG KONG, 9 January 2025: The Cathay Group has achieved a significant milestone by carrying more than 100,000 passengers, the most on a single day since the start of its rebuild in the post-Covid era.
The airline group reported last week that on 15 December 2024, Cathay Pacific and HK Express carried 100,856 passengers, surpassing the 100,000-passenger mark on a single day.
Since that milestone, the group has exceeded the 100,000-passenger mark on eight other days during the year-end travel peak ending 31 December 2024.
“We are thrilled to have concluded the year 2024 on a high note with yet another milestone,” Cathay Group Chief Executive Officer Ronald Lam commented. “We are pleased to have completed our two-year rebuilding journey, during which we were firmly focused on adding more flights and destinations for our customers and our home hub.”
Cathay Pacific recently resumed its seasonal service to Cairns, Australia. It will launch several long-haul routes in 2025, including Hyderabad in India, Dallas in the US, and Munich and Brussels in Europe. In addition, HK Express added Shizuoka, Japan, to its network recently and will launch a new service to Sendai, Japan later this month.
As a group, Cathay Pacific and HK Express have reached 100% of pre-pandemic flights since January 2025. The two airlines are projected to operate passenger services to 100 destinations worldwide within 2025, marking another milestone for the Cathay Group.
SINGAPORE, 9 January 2025: There are just four days left to grab a fare bargain starting at SGD70 on Scoot, the low-cost subsidiary of Singapore Airlines.
The airline started its network-wide sale on 7 January with a starting fare of SGD70 for one-way travel to neighbouring destinations, including taxes. Fares for medium and long-haul destinations are higher (approx SGD200 to SGD300).
The sale ends midnight on 12 January for travel during selected dates in 2025.
Travel periods for destinations may vary, with blackout periods covering school and national holidays.
For the complete list of dates, refer to Scoot’s website.
Fares apply for travel to over 60 destinations, including Australia, Indonesia, Japan, Thailand, Vietnam, Greece and Saudi Arabia.
Travellers can explore Scoot’s latest destinations, such as Phu Quoc in Vietnam and Padang in Indonesia, served by the new E190-E2 aircraft.
Highlighted destinations
Tianjin
From SGD179
ScootPlus from SGD349
Athens
From SGD280
ScootPlus from SGD580
Ho Chi Minh City
From SGD89
Taipei
From SGD118
ScootPlus from SGD320
Book now
Malacca
From SGD70
Melbourne
From SGD200
ScootPlus from SGD480
The sale period began at 1000 SGT on 7 January 2025 and will end at 2359 SGT on 12 January 2025.
BANGKOK, 8 January 2025: Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort unveiled newly refurbished rooms in January and new projects targeting families and fitness fans scheduled for completion in Q1 and Q2 2025.
Since opening in 2004, Anantara Bophut is one of the Island’s original resorts set in a spectacular Bill Bensley-designed landscape gardens.
Backed by a USD2 million investment, the transformation includes a comprehensive room redesign across all categories, the introduction of a new Kids and Teens Club and a state-of-the-art Technogym fitness facility due to launch in Q1 and Q2 2025, respectively.
Looking ahead to additional developments, in March 2025, a 150 sqm state-of-the-art Technogym fitness facility will open in a brand-new space next to the resort’s Spa. The gym will feature advanced Technogym equipment, including six cardio machines, six resistance machines, free weights, bench presses, and functional fitness tools integrated with online Technogym courses.
Q2 2025 will also introduce a new Kids’ and Teens’ Club experience. Housed in a newly relocated space with its own terrace, “The Treehouse” Kids’ Club will embrace the resort’s story of monkeys and nature. It will feature a creative treehouse-inspired design, indoor and outdoor playgrounds, wall nooks for hiding, and an array of Montessori-inspired play spaces.
In a separate space next door, the Teens’ Club, “The Lounge,” will offer arcade games, a reading corner, and a relaxed hangout area. Both spaces will be paired with various child- and teen-friendly cultural experiences.
Stays at Anantara Bophut start from USD250 plus 10% service and 7% Vat per night, including breakfast, Kids’ and Teen Club access, and daily activities such as yoga, Pilates, stand-up paddleboarding, and sea kayaking.
