UDON THANI, 22 October 2026: Thai AirAsia is joining the countdown to the Udon Thani World Horticultural Expo 2026, running from 1 November 2026 to 14 March 2027.
To support the event, the airline is ramping up flights and expanding options across its network, connecting travellers directly from Bangkok (Don Mueang) to Udon Thani with up to six daily flights, Chiang Mai with four weekly flights (Mon, Wed, Fri, Sun), and Phuket with four weekly flights (Mon, Tue, Thu, Sat).
Photo credit: Thai AirAsia.
The Udon Thani World Horticultural Expo 2026 runs from 1 November 2026 to 14 March 2027 at Nong Dae Wetland (just 15 minutes from Udon Thani Airport). The AirAsia Garden features a specially designed livery model aircraft that weaves together stories of local waterways, flora, people, and iconic Udon Thani landmarks — such as the Ban Chiang Archaeological Site and the Red Lotus Lake — and links them to the airline’s sustainability roadmap to welcome all visitors.
DOHA, Qatar, 22 October 2026: Qatar Airways embarks on its next phase of expansion in Australia, with plans to launch direct passenger services between Hamad International Airport (DOH) and Western Sydney International Airport (WSI) starting 15 December 2027.
Western Sydney becomes Qatar Airways’ seventh Australian gateway, alongside Sydney (SYD), Melbourne (MEL), Brisbane (BNE), Perth (PER), Adelaide (ADL), and Canberra (CBR).
Photo credit: Qatar Airways. Three times weekly to WSI in December 2027,
Unlike SYD Airport, Western Sydney Airport operates 24 hours a day.
Fights from Doha to Western Sydney Airport (50 km from downtown Sydney) will go on sale on 19 December 2026. The advance timetable shows three weekly flights on a Boeing 777-300ER aircraft, featuring Qsuite business class, with 42 business class and 312 economy class seats.
Flights to Western Sydney International Airport (WSI)
Starting 15 December 2027, flights from Doha will operate every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday: Doha (DOH) to Western Sydney (WSI) – Flight QR906: Departure 0140; Arrival 2345.
Flights from Western Sydney will operate every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday: Western Sydney (WSI) to Doha (DOH) – Flight QR907: Departure 1610; Arrival 2300.
SINGAPORE, 22 October 2026: Air France and KLM, as well as SkyTeam partners, have been operating out of Terminal 5 at Stockholm Arlanda since 20 October, a move that provides wider access to a range of services and facilities, including SAS lounges for eligible travellers
Air France and KLM moved their operations at Stockholm Arlanda (ARN) from Terminal 2 to Terminal 5 on 20 October 2026. From that date, Air France and KLM travellers will check in, go through security, and depart from Terminal 5.
Photo credit: Air France KLM. Switch to T5 at Stockholm Arlanda.
The move means that Air France and KLM will be grouped with other SkyTeam members in Terminal 5. Eligible Air France and KLM customers will have access to SAS lounges near gates E1 and F26.
Terminal 5 is Arlanda’s largest terminal and handles the majority of the airport’s international air traffic. The new security checkpoint uses modern technology that allows travellers to keep electronics and liquid containers up to 100 ml in their hand luggage during security, helping them move through more smoothly.
BANGKOK, 21 October 2026: Luxury travel is changing. Today’s travellers increasingly want more than beautiful places to stay – they want to experience the destination itself. Discovering hidden corners, sampling local flavours, learning traditional crafts and meeting local people can create meaningful memories that last long after the journey ends.
Here, luxury extends beyond where you stay; it is found in the space, landscape, culture, cuisine, and people that shape the journey.
All these elements come together in Krabi, a destination of turquoise seas, white-sand beaches, limestone cliffs and lush landscapes, complemented by a rich multicultural heritage and a strong sense of place.
Centara Hotels & Resorts invites travellers to discover what makes Krabi a compelling luxury destination.
Krabi’s multicultural heritage
Krabi’s coastal setting has shaped a rich, multicultural heritage that still flourishes today. Buddhist temples sit alongside Muslim mosques, reflecting the influences that have flowed across the Indian Ocean. Travellers can visit villages where time-honoured traditions have been passed down through generations and shop for handicrafts at bustling markets. Heading out into the island-studded seascape, explorers can learn about the Urak Lawoi, an ancient seafaring community that has lived in harmony with the Andaman for centuries.
Experience the flavours of Krabi
Bold and spicy yet also fresh and tropical, Krabi has developed a unique culinary culture that sets it apart from the rest of the country. The long coastline puts seafood centre stage, sourced straight from the Andaman waters, while exotic ingredients such as turmeric, chilli, and shrimp paste add a distinct flavour. Stroll through the night markets as shellfish steams and sizzles on street-food stalls, and savour local specialities like khua kling (spicy dry-fried curry) and pla tod kamin (deep-fried fish with turmeric and garlic).
Reconnect with nature
Krabi’s natural wonders range from island-hopping adventures and vibrant underwater worlds to lush rainforests.
In Krabi, nature lovers can explore remarkable landscapes on land and at sea. Offshore, guests can embark on bespoke boat trips to the iconic Four Islands, Koh Poda, Koh Gai (Chicken Island), Koh Tub, and Koh Mor, as well as Koh Phi Phi Leh, home to the famous Maya Bay. Crystal-clear waters offer excellent snorkelling opportunities among vibrant marine life, while the mainland reveals a tapestry of jungle-clad hills, cascading waterfalls, and secluded nature trails. Where the forest meets the sea, lush mangrove ecosystems provide a habitat for colourful birds, playful monkeys and other native wildlife.
Wellbeing rooted in nature
A peaceful natural sanctuary where lush greenery and calm waters create a sense of balance, renewal and connection with nature.
With its deep sense of purity and serenity, Krabi offers a natural setting for wellness, where guests can slow down and enjoy physical, mental and spiritual rejuvenation. Experience natural hydrotherapy in Khlong Thom, the mineral-rich pools hidden deep in the jungle, while the province’s stunning beaches set the scene for sunrise yoga and meditation sessions. Krabi’s abundance of herbs and spices not only provides ingredients for fresh cuisine; they can also soothe muscles and stimulate the senses in an herbal compress, the perfect accompaniment to an invigorating massage.
A different kind of luxury comes to Krabi
Guests will soon discover a more personal expression of luxury at Centara Reserve Krabi, a new five-star beachfront sanctuary set within a secluded sandy cove accessible only by boat. Rooted in its destination, the resort will bring guests closer to Krabi through thoughtful welcome rituals, cultural experiences, and curated excursions that reveal the province’s natural beauty and local heritage.
Centara Reserve Krabi’s contemporary design and thoughtfully appointed interiors offer a refined retreat, nestled within a secluded beachfront setting.
The resort’s 119 rooms, suites and villas will combine contemporary elegance with a strong sense of place, creating inviting spaces for couples and families alike. Design details will draw inspiration from the surrounding landscape. At the same time, six restaurants and bars will celebrate the region’s culinary identity through fresh Andaman seafood, locally sourced ingredients and distinctive Thai flavours, complemented by a beachside seafood grill. At Reserve Spa Cenvaree, locally inspired aromas and personalised treatments will shape a holistic approach to wellness, inviting guests to reconnect with themselves and their surroundings. Throughout each stay, a dedicated Reserve Host will provide thoughtful, personalised service and insider knowledge, ensuring every experience feels meaningful and uniquely connected to Krabi.
Centara Hotels & Resorts is a leading hotel operator headquartered in Bangkok, Thailand. Its 93 properties span major destinations across Thailand, plus the Maldives, Vietnam, Laos, Japan, Nepal, Oman, Qatar, and the UAE. Centara’s portfolio comprises six brands — Centara Reserve, The Centara Collection, Centara Grand, Centara, Centara Life and COSI Hotels — ranging from luxury island retreats and upscale family resorts to affordable lifestyle concepts supported by innovative technology.
(Source: Your Stories — Centara Hotels & Resorts).
KUALA LUMPUR, 21 October 2026: Batik Air has strengthened air connectivity in Northern Malaysia by launching direct service between Batam’s Hang Nadim International Airport and Penang International Airport.
Batam is in Indonesia’s Riau Islands Province, a one-hour and 25-minute flight from Penang.
Photo credit: Batik Air.
The airline schedules three weekly services departing Penang on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday using a 169-seat B737-800. The round-trip fare starts at USD187 (Kayak quote).
Flight schedule
OD358 departs Penang (PEN) at 1010 and arrives in Batam (BTH) at 1050.
OD359 departs Batam (BTH) at 1130 and arrives in Penang (PEN) at 1355.
The new Penang-Batam route reflects the airline’s commitment to expand travel options in Malaysia’s northern region and support Penang’s growing potential as a regional medical tourism hub.
By connecting Batam directly to Penang, Batik Air aims to create more opportunities for tourism, cross-border business, and healthcare travel, further supporting the region’s long-term growth and development.
The inaugural flight arrived at Penang International Airport on 18 October, marking a milestone in Batik Air’s continued regional network expansion.
The new Batam–Penang (BTH–PEN) route strengthens the connection between Indonesia’s Riau Islands and northern Malaysia, offering passengers a more convenient option without the need for transit stops.
As northern Malaysia strengthens its position as a key regional travel destination, the new service offers more opportunities for Indonesian visitors to discover Penang’s rich cultural heritage, renowned culinary scene, and diverse tourism attractions. At the same time, the direct connection is designed to facilitate business exchanges and strengthen economic ties between the two destinations, reinforcing the importance of accessible air connectivity in supporting sustainable regional growth.
Beyond leisure and business travel, the Batam–Penang route also underscores Batik Air’s commitment to supporting Penang’s continued development as a medical tourism destination.
Batik Air Chief Executive Officer Datuk Chandran Rama Muthy said the new route reflects the airline’s long-term vision of strengthening regional connectivity, providing more accessible travel options, and creating greater opportunities for Northern Malaysia.
“As we continue to grow our regional network, our focus is on opening new gateways, expanding travel choices and connecting markets with strong potential. The Batam–Penang route strengthens ties between Indonesia and Northern Malaysia, while supporting Penang’s ambitions as a leading destination for tourism and medical care. We see air connectivity as a key enabler of long-term growth and remain committed to building a future-ready network that delivers greater value to our passengers and the communities we serve.”
SINGAPORE, 21 October 2026: Discover Airlines will expand the Lufthansa Group’s leisure travel portfolio with two new long-haul destinations in 2027.
For the first time, the leisure airline will connect Frankfurt with Edmonton, Canada, and Belize City, Belize. The airline’s presence in Munich will also continue to grow.
In 2027, Discover Airlines will connect Frankfurt with Edmonton, Canada, and Belize City, Belize. Plus, it takes over Lufthansa’s Seattle flights.
Beginning 1 June 2027, Discover Airlines will fly three times a week from Frankfurt to Edmonton (YEG), Alberta, Canada.
Flights will operate on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. This will make Discover Airlines the only carrier offering nonstop service from Germany to the city, an ideal gateway to the Canadian Rockies.
Edmonton complements the airline’s existing Canadian destinations of Calgary and Halifax and creates new road-trip opportunities —for example, flying into Edmonton and returning from Calgary.
Belize will be a special highlight of the winter schedule: Beginning 16 December 2027, Discover Airlines will become the first European airline to serve the Central American country. Located between Mexico, Guatemala, and the Caribbean Sea, Belize captivates visitors with its Caribbean islands, rich biodiversity, and fascinating remnants of Maya culture.
English is the official language, and the destination remains relatively unknown in Europe. Flights from Frankfurt to Belize City will operate twice a week on Thursdays and Sundays through mid-April 2028.
Beginning in late March 2027, Discover Airlines will also take over Lufthansa’s service from Frankfurt and Munich to Seattle (SEA), which currently operates up to daily. Nothing will change for guests with existing bookings; the booking system will be updated automatically in the coming weeks.
The addition of Seattle service, together with the previously announced increase in Windhoek service to five weekly flights, will further expand Munich’s offering. An additional Airbus A330-300 will also join the Munich fleet in March 2027, bringing the total to 10 aircraft.
PHU QUOC, Vietnam, 21 October 2026: Sun Group will make its debut at ITB Asia, a leading business-to-business travel trade show in Asia Pacific, from 21 to 23 October at the Sands Expo and Convention Centre in Singapore.
Its 10-booth pavilion will present Phu Quoc, host of APEC 2027, as a destination for meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE). Sun Group will also introduce an integrated travel offer combining its airline, Sun PhuQuoc Airways, seven hotels and hotel clusters, and the Visit Vietnam platform, presented jointly with strategic partner Visa.
Photo credit: Sun Group. Sunset Town in Phu Quoc, part of the leisure and entertainment offering Sun Group presents to MICE organisers.
Sun Group will present plans for Phu Quoc’s next development phase, backed by investments in infrastructure, convention facilities, and hospitality to support APEC 2027. The company expects these facilities to support international conferences beyond the event.
The island pairs convention venues and accommodation with experiences beyond the meeting room, from beachfront gala dinners and island excursions to evening shows and fireworks in Sunset Town, plus the three-rope cable car to Hon Thom.
Sun Group will also offer partners flights, accommodation and digital distribution to support multi-destination programs to Vietnam.
Sun PhuQuoc Airways links air travel with the group’s hotels and attractions. Representatives of seven hotels and hotel clusters in Phu Quoc, Da Nang, Quang Ninh and Hanoi will meet partners: Hilton Onsen Quang Hanh Resort, Novotel Danang Premier Han River, Ba Na Hills Resort by IHG, Rixos Phu Quoc Vietnam, New World Phu Quoc, Moxy & Fairfield Phu Quoc and Ascott Tay Ho.
Visa will join Sun Group in introducing Visit Vietnam, a government-endorsed platform developed and operated by Sun Group as part of Vietnam’s national digital tourism ecosystem, with support from the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the National Data Association.
It brings destination information and travel services together for travellers and gives international businesses a channel for joint marketing. The joint appearance is part of the comprehensive strategic partnership the two companies signed in September 2026.
SINGAPORE, 21 October 2026: Seabourn has unveiled its 2029 Summer Ocean Voyages, featuring 166 sailings to more than 180 destinations across the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Alaska, Canada and New England.
Highlights include Seabourn’s return to Egypt for the first time in more than five years, a new seven-day itinerary exploring Sweden and Finland’s Gulf of Bothnia, maiden calls in Northern Europe, and extended and overnight stays that give guests more time to experience destinations ashore.
Sailing aboard Seabourn Ovation, Seabourn Quest and Seabourn Encore, the 2029 collection combines iconic destinations with smaller ports and less-travelled regions. The itineraries give guests more opportunities to explore beyond the marquee ports, with a mix of longer stays, overnights, and destination-focused experiences throughout the season.
Return to Egypt
Sailing from March through November 2029, Seabourn Ovation’s Mediterranean season offers 21 itineraries throughout the Western Mediterranean, Italy, the Adriatic, the Aegean, and beyond.
One of the most anticipated offerings is the line’s return to Egypt. Select voyages aboard Seabourn Ovation will include an overnight stay in Alexandria, giving guests ample time to explore Cairo, the Great Pyramids of Giza, and some of the world’s most celebrated ancient treasures.
New speciality voyages include Italian Coast & Fireworks Over Corsica and Pyramids & Evening at Ephesus, offering exclusive access to some of the Mediterranean’s most remarkable cultural landmarks, historic wonders, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
New Gulf of Bothnia itinerary
Between May and September 2029, Seabourn Quest will sail on a series of port-rich itineraries designed to encourage deeper exploration and meaningful connections in Northern Europe, including Scandinavia, the Baltic, the British Isles, Northern Norway, Iceland, and Greenland.
A major highlight of the season is a new seven-day voyage into Sweden and Finland’s Gulf of Bothnia, taking Seabourn farther north in the Baltic to destinations rarely featured on traditional cruise itineraries. The voyage includes maiden calls at Härnösand, Kemi, Rauma, and Oulu, offering guests the opportunity to explore lesser-visited destinations in Sweden and Finland.
The season also adds maiden calls at Alta and Frøya, while extended overnight stays in Bordeaux, Rouen, Helsinki, Tallinn, Edinburgh, and Hamburg give guests more time to explore ashore. Guests can also visit Turku, Finland, during its landmark 900th anniversary year in 2029. Founded in 1229, Turku is Finland’s oldest city and offers a rich blend of Nordic history, culture, and architecture, making it a particularly timely and memorable port of call.
Alaska adventures
Seabourn Encore returns to Alaska in 2029 with a series of seven-day voyages between Juneau and Vancouver between May and September. 10- and 11-day itineraries also extend north to destinations such as Valdez, Whittier, and College Fjord.
Every Alaska voyage includes glacier viewing, while Seabourn’s Expedition Team provides expert interpretation of the region’s wildlife, landscapes, and cultural heritage.
BANGKOK, 21 October 2026: IHG Hotels & Resorts confirmed Tuesday that it has signed a management deal for the Holiday Inn Resort Luang Prabang Naluang Hill.
Set to open in 2027, the resort will mark IHG’s debut in UNESCO-listed Luang Prabang and expand the company’s presence in Laos.
Photo credit: IHG. Rendering of Holiday Inn Resort Luang Prabang Naluang Hill.
In partnership with Naluang International Resort and Hotel Limited, the 101-key resort will introduce the Holiday Inn Resort brand to Luang Prabang, a destination celebrated for its rich cultural heritage, centuries-old temples and unique blend of Lao and French colonial influences.
Situated on Naluang Hill, the property will offer views over Luang Prabang while remaining within easy reach of the city’s famed UNESCO World Heritage-listed ancient town and cultural attractions.
Recognised as one of Laos’ premier tourism destinations, Luang Prabang attracts visitors from around the world with its UNESCO-listed heritage, riverside setting, vibrant local culture and iconic attractions, including Mount Phousi, Kuang Si Falls, Pak Ou Caves and Mekong River experiences.
Growing regional connectivity, supported by Luang Prabang International Airport and high-speed rail links, is enhancing the destination’s appeal.
Holiday Inn Resort Luang Prabang Naluang Hill will feature 101 rooms, suites and villas designed to provide a relaxing resort experience. Facilities include four food and beverage venues, a swimming pool, a fitness centre, a spa, and more than 500 sqm of meeting space, supporting small- to medium-sized events and retreats.
IHG currently operates two hotels — Crowne Plaza and Holiday Inn & Suites with 471 keys, across two brands in Vientiane, Laos.
KATHMANDU, Nepal, 21 October 2026: The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) Nepal Chapter’s Executive Committee has confirmed the nomination and endorsement of its Advisory Committee members for the 2026-2028 term.
Comprising leaders and professionals from Nepal’s tourism and hospitality sector, the Advisory Committee provides guidance and insights into the association’s strategic initiatives.
PATA Nepal Chapter Advisory Committee 2026-2028:
Dipendra Purush Dhakal, Former Secretary, Ministry of Tourism;
Prativa Pandey, Medical Director, CIWEC Hospital;
Bijay Amatya, CEO, Kora Tours;
Ashok Pokharel, Director & COO, Shangri-La Tours;
Deepak Raj Joshi, Former CEO, Nepal Tourism Board;
Bibhuti Chand Thakur, Managing Director & Founder, Himalayan Holidays;
Bikram Pandey, Founder, BuddhistCircuits.com;
Shiva Dhakal, Managing Director, Royal Mountain Travel.
PATA Nepal Chapter Chairman Narendra Bhatta and the Executive Committee thanked each member for accepting their appointment to the Advisory Committee.
“We look forward to their valued guidance as we work together to continue advancing responsible and sustainable tourism in Nepal,” the Executive Committee stated.
