SINGAPORE, 22 April 2025: Vietjet launched two new direct routes connecting Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to Con Dao on 19 April from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
It marks another step in expanding the airline’s domestic network and cuts travel time to Con Dao. Singaporeans, for example, can fly directly to either Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City and then connect with a domestic flight to Con Dao.
Photo credit: Vietjet.
The new routes will operate with a total of 28 roundtrip flights weekly. Vietjet offers two daily morning departures from Hanoi to Con Dao, with a flight time of two hours and 10 minutes. Two daily morning flights from Ho Chi Minh City to Con Dao will have a flight time of 40 minutes.
Vietjet operates direct flights to Singapore from Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and Danang. As part of its strong flight network growth, the airline will launch a new direct service between Singapore and Phu Quoc — Vietnam’s largest island — beginning 30 May 2025. This will mark Vietjet’s fourth route to Singapore, further enhancing regional connectivity.
Vietnam Airlines flies to Con Dao from Ho Chi Minh City (around 25 flights daily) and Can Tho (five weekly). Both routes are flown by ATR72s. The roundtrip fare averages USD180.
Why visit Con Dao
Con Dao is located in Ba Ria – Vung Tau, Vietnam. It is the largest archipelago island, famed for its beaches and tragic history as a former penal colony under French and Vietnamese administrations. Con Dao is accessible by ferries and domestic flights.
The island boasts some of Vietnam’s most beautiful and unspoiled beaches, with soft white sand and clear turquoise waters.
Bai Dat Doc is often cited as the best beach on Con Son Island, a long crescent of sand surrounded by green hills.
Dam Trau Beach, close to the airport, offers stunning sunsets and the unique experience of watching planes land.
For a more secluded experience, Bai Nhat Beach appears at low tide and is perfect for sunset views, while Ong Dung Beach requires a hike through the National Park. The Con Dao National Park protects a significant portion of the archipelago, known for its lush tropical forests, diverse wildlife, and scenic hiking trails.
Harsh penal history
Con Dao’s was a former penal colony, earning it the grim nickname “Hell on Earth.” Visitors can explore the Con Dao Prison, including the infamous “tiger cages,” to understand the harsh realities faced by political prisoners during the French colonial era and the Vietnam War.
The Con Dao Museum provides valuable context and displays artefacts and photographs detailing the island’s history and biodiversity.
The Hang Duong Cemetery is a significant memorial site where thousands of prisoners are buried.
Marine Life and activities
The waters surrounding Con Dao are home to coral reefs and diverse marine life, making it ideal for snorkeling and diving.
Island hopping tours allow you to discover hidden beaches, bays, and underwater caves around the archipelago.
Bay Canh Island is particularly known for its well-preserved reefs and turtle conservation projects.
From July to September, you can witness the moving sight of sea turtles laying eggs, and later in the season, baby turtles hatching and making their way to the sea.
Tranquility and escape
With a relatively small population, Con Dao offers a secluded and peaceful atmosphere, a welcome contrast to the bustling mainland.
It’s an ideal destination for relaxation and rejuvenation, allowing you to escape the stresses of everyday life.
The coastal roads are ideal for scenic drives or motorbike rides, offering stunning coastline views and lush landscapes.
Photo credit: Google Maps. Can Dao’s location; a 40-minute flight from HCMC.
BANGKOK, 21 April 2025: Thailand’s sun-kissed beaches, misty northern hills and vibrant cities are best known through digital postcards and travel blogs — but to truly feel the rhythm of the country, hop aboard a train.
In a land where modernity meets tradition, Thailand’s railways offer a unique, nostalgic, and surprisingly luxurious way to traverse its diverse landscapes.
Rail travel in Thailand is not only affordable and practical — it’s an experience in itself. With colonial-era stations, panoramic countryside views, and local life on full display, the journey is often just as rewarding as the destination. Whether you’re a budget backpacker or a luxury seeker, there’s something magical about the chug of the engine, the rattle of the tracks, and the wide-open windows offering glimpses of rice paddies, mountain passes, and fishing villages.
Photo: SRT Royal Blossom, a luxury tourist train operated by the State Railway of Thailand (SRT). It is refurbished from Japan’s Hamanasu train cars and designed for premium travel experiences.
Thailand’s Rail Network: A Snapshot
Operated primarily by the State Railway of Thailand (SRT), the country’s rail system spans over 4,345 kilometres, with four main lines — Northern, Northeastern, Eastern, and Southern — radiating from Bangkok’s historic Hua Lamphong Station, a heritage gem in its own right.
• Network length: 4,345 km
• Number of main lines: 4
• Longest route: Bangkok to Sungai Kolok (over 1,100 km)
• Popular train types: Ordinary, Rapid, Express and Special Express (including overnight sleepers)
• Luxury trains: Yes — most notably the SRT Royal Blossom
• Electrified rail: Limited (expanding via the urban SRT Red Line and upcoming high-speed projects)
• Average ticket cost: From THB15 (UKP0.36) to THB6,000+ (UKP144.50+)
Key features of the SRT Royal Blossom:
• Design: The exterior is bright red with gold accents, while the interior features comfortable seating and scenic viewing areas.
• Facilities: Equipped with air conditioning, Wi-Fi, power outlets, and private restrooms.
• Services: Offers meals, beverages, and a café car.
• Routes: Operates on short-haul routes, including day trips to destinations like Hua Hin.
• Schedule: Runs every Saturday and Sunday in April and May 2025.
• Purpose: Aim to promote domestic tourism and provide unique travel experiences.
Currently operating as part of the State Railway’s tourism promotion initiative. As of April 2025, the Royal Blossom offers weekend journeys to various destinations, including Kanchanaburi, Hua Hin, Lopburi, and Phetchaburi. These trips provide passengers with a luxurious experience, featuring refurbished carriages originally from Japan’s Hokkaido Railway Company. The train’s interior boasts plush velvet seats, cedar wood accents, and large panoramic windows for scenic views. Tickets for these excursions can be booked through SRT’s D-Ticket online platform or at train stations nationwide.
Bangkok’s Central Rail Terminal
Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal (often shortened to Krung Thep Aphiwat or Bangkok Central Station), also known by its former name Bang Sue Grand Station, is the central station of Thailand and the capital’s primary rail hub.
Location: In the Chatuchak district, about 10 km north of Hua Lamphong Station, adjacent to the former Bang Sue Junction it replaced in 2023.
How to Get There
•MRT (Subway): Take the MRT Blue Line to Bang Sue Station, then a short walk or escalator.
•Taxi/Grab: Readily accessible by car or ride-share apps.
• Bus: Multiple city bus routes stop nearby.
Quick Facts
•The largest railway station in Southeast Asia
• 26 platforms serving long-distance, commuter and future high-speed lines
• Connects most northern, northeastern and southern intercity routes
Photo: Thailand’s railways offer a unique, nostalgic and surprisingly luxurious way to traverse its diverse landscapes
Top Five Rail Journeys in Thailand
Here are five must-do routes that promise unforgettable scenery, cultural immersion, and a touch of rail romance.
1. SRT Royal Blossom: Bangkok → Kanchanaburi (Luxury Day Journey)
• USP: Cross into Laos via the Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge
Highlights
• Sunrise over the rice fields of Isan
• Cultural stops in Udon Thani and Nong Khai
• Border crossing to Vientiane, Laos’s capital
• Price: 1,200 THB (£28.90) – 1,600 THB (£38.56)
• Popularity: Loved by backpackers, expats and off-the-beaten-track explorers
The Allure of Exploring Thailand by Train
• Authentic Encounters: Share cabins with locals, sample Thai street food on station platforms, and watch landscapes evolve in real time
• Budget-Friendly: One of the most economical ways to cover vast distances in comfort
• Spectacular Scenery: From tropical beaches and dense jungles to golden rice paddies and sheer mountain gorges
• Greener Footprint: Trains emit far less carbon than planes or long-haul coaches
•Rich Heritage: Many stations date back over a century, and some lines carry profound historical significance
Thailand’s railways don’t just take you to your destination—they invite you to experience the very soul of the kingdom. Pack light, keep your camera close, and let the rails lead you on an unforgettable adventure.
Insider Tips for Rail Travel in Thailand
• Book early for overnight and luxury trains — especially during festivals and long weekends
•Pack layers: Trains can be surprisingly cold when the air-con is on full blast
•Tuck into local fare: Vendors at each stop serve fresh, inexpensive Thai dishes
• Use the SRT app or website for live timetables and online bookings
• Savour the pace: In Thailand, the journey is every bit as rewarding as the destination
About the author Andrew J Wood is a respected travel writer, hotelier, and tourism lecturer with over four decades of experience in Southeast Asia’s hospitality and tourism sectors. A former general manager of several leading hotels in Thailand and a regular speaker at international tourism forums, he is widely recognised for his insight into emerging travel trends and his passionate advocacy for Thailand as a world-class destination.
SANDAKAN, Sabah, 21 April 2025: Trade experts, industry leaders, and tourism entrepreneurs explored business expansion opportunities in Singapore at the Market Readiness: Singapore Market seminar, held on 15 April 2025 at Sabah Hotel, Sandakan.
Organised by the Sabah Trade and Tourism Office Singapore (STTOS) and Singapore Cooperation Enterprise (SCE), the seminar was made possible with the support of MATRADE Sabah, Sandakan Tourist Association, and the Sabah Young Business & Industry Leaders Network (SYBIL), whose contributions helped ensure its success.
The seminar delivered targeted insights into market access, F&B export potential, and trade regulations relevant to Sabahan businesses aiming to tap into the Singaporean market.
Speakers included Wee Chin Chuan (Consultant, Singapore Cooperation Enterprise), Adli Haikal (Director of MATRADE Sabah), David Tan (Emeritus President of the Singapore Food Manufacturer’s Association) and Kane McGuinn (CEO and Founder of Atlas Aquaculture), who shared practical strategies on export procedures, seafood industry opportunities, and business expansion in Singapore.
Participants — comprising exporters, SMEs, and entrepreneurs — actively engaged in valuable opportunities for attendees to consult directly with experts and seek tailored advice relevant to their export goals. The event also highlighted available support schemes and potential areas for business collaboration.
A key highlight was the attendance of YB Puan Vivian Wong Shir Yee, Member of Parliament for Sandakan, who joined the networking lunch with stakeholders and speakers. Her presence underscored the role of the government in supporting local businesses. YB Vivian Wong encouraged stronger economic ties between Sabah and Singapore and highlighted the need for more collaboration between the private sector and government.
This initiative was further supported by the Ministry of Industrial Development & Entrepreneurship (MIDE), reinforcing the state government’s commitment to creating more opportunities for local entrepreneurs to collaborate, grow, and pursue business matching with Singaporean companies.
STTOS Managing Director Wendy Clare Stephen commented: “We are proud to provide the platform and support to help Sabah’s entrepreneurs thrive beyond our borders”.
About Sabah Trade and Tourism Office Singapore (STTOS) Established in 2022, the Sabah Trade and Tourism Office Singapore operates under the directive of the Ministry of Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship (MIDE). The primary mission is to promote Sabah, showcasing its vast potential for trade, investment, and tourism.
LANGKAWI 21 April 2025: Malaysia’s premier holiday island will boost air services with a direct flight from Tashkent, Uzbekistan, starting in June and weekly roundtrip charters resuming from Poland this November.
The New Strait Times reported that Malaysia’s low-cost airline Batik Air will commence weekly flights between Tashkent and Langkawi on 1 June.
Photo credit: GCA Private Travel & Event Langkawi #GCAPrivateLangkawi. Langkawi Tourism Engagement B2B event, held with Batik Air’s fam trip hosted at Pelangi Beach Resort Langkawi.
Credit for the additional airline routes goes to the Langkawi Development Authority (LADA), which leads the drive to bring more airlines to the holiday island off the coast of northern Malaysia.
LADA chief executive officer, Datuk Haslina Abdul Hamid said the route development initiative should support the agency’s efforts to attract 3.5 million visitors to the island this year.
Advance flight information sourced by OAG indicates Batik Air will introduce a weekly service every Sunday between Tashkent and Langkawi, deploying a 162-seat Boeing 737-800.
The LADA CEO also confirmed the air service between Poland and Langkawi will resume this November following the completion of the inaugural charter series of 22 flights that operated on the Warsaw – Langkawi route from November 2024 to March 2025 winter season. Flights were operated by LOT Polish Airlines.
Batik Air’s Tashkent – Langkawi weekly flight departs every Sunday. The flight timetable information shows the service is direct one-way on the TAS-LGK sector effective 1 June 2025, but the return flight from LGK includes a stop in KUL to connect with a Batik Air KUL-TAS service.
Flight schedule
OD755 will depart Kuala Lumpur (KUL) at 1700 and arrive in Tashkent (TAS) at 2150. OD756 will depart Tashkent (TAS) at 2310 and arrive in Langkawi (LGK) at 0955 plus a day (Direct flight).
Pre-flight promotions
GCA Private Travel & Event Langkawi attending the Langkawi Tourism Engagement B2B event, which was held in conjunction with Batik Air’s 16 April familiarisation trip at the Pelangi Beach Resort Langkawi posted on its Facebook page: “Thanks to LADA and all tourism partners from Langkawi and Tashkent for the warm hospitality and valuable networking opportunity. Looking forward to future collaborations and continued success in building two-way tourism between the destinations.”
KUALA LUMPUR, 21 April 2025: The Malaysian Association of Tour & Travel Agents (MATTA) hosted its inaugural business-to-business (B2B) travel and tourism exchange matching event, MATTA Connect 2025, a day before the MATTA Fair from 18 to 20 April 2025.
Hosted at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC), MATTA Connect delivered a business platform to connect Malaysian travel agents with international tourism suppliers and industry players. It provided an exclusive space to start discussions and build business opportunities across the travel and tourism industry.
From Left:Michiko Watanabe, ASEAN marketing manager, Atout France;Kashful Azim Shaharuddin, Market Manager Saudi Tourism Authority;Chong Yu Ken, Vice President Outbound and Organising Chairman of MATTA Connect;Balquis Engku Mokhsin, Acting Country Manager, Saudi Tourism Authority;Sammie, Senior Marketing Executive, Macao Government Tourism Office;Nguyen Son, CEO of Visit Indochina Corporate Limited – Vietnam.
MATTA Connect welcomed 186 sellers representing 93 organisations from 27 countries. Each showcased its destinations, products, and services to meet the growing demand of Malaysian travellers and business partners.
Together with these sellers, 145 registered member buyers from across the ASEAN region joined the event, all eager to explore new offerings and build strategic business partnerships.
MATTA Connect also featured insightful ‘Pitch Stage’ presentations from the sponsors, key global tourism authorities and organisations, including: Visit Indochina from Vietnam; Macao Global Tourism; Saudi Tourism Authority; Atout France.
Sponsor presentations provided attendees with first-hand insights into emerging markets, destination highlights, and strategic updates, further adding to the knowledge-sharing and commercial appeal of the event. The business matchmaking sessions, which facilitated hundreds of productive discussions, further reinforced the importance of in-person meetings and building trust and long-term business relationships.
“Our goal is to provide value to our members and the travel community at large, and this is reflected in the success of MATTA Connect,” said MATTA president Nigel Wong. “These initiatives are essential for elevating the travel and tourism industry and promoting long-term collaboration between parties.”
The MATTA Connect complemented MATTA’s broader member-focused initiatives, which aim to support travel agents in a rapidly changing industry through innovation, sustainability, and knowledge-sharing.
As MATTA celebrates its 50th Anniversary this year, initiatives like MATTA Connect showcase the association’s enduring role in supporting and connecting all the parties in the travel and tourism industry.
SINGAPORE, 21 April 2025: Viking floated out its newest ship, the 82-guest Viking Amun last week destined to sail Egypt’s Nile River starting this September.
The Viking Amun will join the company’s growing fleet of state-of-the-art ships for the Nile River sailing Viking’s popular 12-day Pharaohs & Pyramids itinerary.
The 82-guest Viking Amun floats out, marking a major construction milestone and the first time the ship has touched water.
“Egypt is one of the world’s most captivating destinations, and we look forward to introducing even more curious travellers to this extraordinary region in the coming years,” said Viking Chairman and CEO Torstein Hagen.
The traditional float-out ceremony of the Viking Amun took place at Massara shipyard in Cairo. It is significant because it marks the ship’s move into its final stage of construction. She will be moved to a nearby outfitting dock for final construction and interior build-out.
Hosting 82 guests in 41 staterooms, the new Viking Amun is inspired by Viking’s award-winning river and ocean ships, with the signature Scandinavian design for which Viking is known. An identical sister ship to the Viking Osiris, the Viking Aton, the Viking Sobek and the Viking Hathor, the Viking Amun features several aspects familiar to Viking guests, such as a distinctive square bow and an indoor/outdoor Aquavit Terrace. Other ships in Viking’s Egypt fleet include the Viking Ra and the MS Antares. In addition to the Viking Amun, Viking plans to welcome five new vessels in Egypt in the next two years, bringing the company’s fleet to 12 on the Nile River by 2027.
Pharaohs & Pyramids Itinerary
During the 12-day Pharaohs & Pyramids itinerary, guests begin with a three-night stay at a first-class hotel in Cairo, where they can visit iconic sites such as the Great Pyramids of Giza, the necropolis of Sakkara, the Mosque of Muhammad Ali, or the Grand Egyptian Museum.
Guests then fly to Luxor, where they visit the Temples of Luxor and Karnak before boarding a Viking river ship for an eight-day roundtrip cruise on the Nile River, featuring visits to the tomb of Nefertari in the Valley of the Queens and the tomb of Tutankhamen in the Valley of the Kings, and excursions to the Temple of Khnum in Esna, the Dendera Temple complex in Qena, the temples at Abu Simbel and the High Dam in Aswan, and a visit to a colourful Nubian village, where guests can experience a traditional elementary school. Finally, the journey concludes with a flight back to Cairo for a final night in the ancient city.
KUALA LUMPUR, 21 April 2025: The 56th edition of the Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) National MATTA Fair held at the Malaysia International Travel and Exhibition Centre (MITEC) in Kuala Lumpur broke all previous records with 1,754 exhibitor booths.
Credited with being Malaysia’s largest and most influential travel show, the MATTA Fair focused on domestic, inbound, and international travel growth and sports tourism under the banner of MATTA’s commitment to a more sustainable future.
Photo credit: MATTA. The opening ceremony was graced by the Menteri Besar Kedah, YAB Dato Seri Haji Muhammad Sanusi, who emphasised the beauty of Kedah and the state’s rising status as a tourism destination. (Right) MATTA President Nigel Wong.
Running from 18 to 20 April 2025, the MATTA Fair featured a new record of 1,754 booths spread across eight halls on three levels at MITEC, surpassing the 1,590 booths recorded in the 55th edition in September 2024. The MATTA Fair is recognised as the country’s largest International Travel Fair, with the April edition drawing over 210,000 visitors and generating a projected MYR270 million in sales, outperforming the previous fair of 190,000 visitors and MYR250 million in sales.
The opening ceremony was graced by the Menteri Besar Kedah, YAB Dato Seri Haji Muhammad Sanusi, who emphasised the beauty of Kedah and the state’s rising stance as a tourism destination.
“Kedah is experiencing increasing interest as a tourism destination, highlighted by distinct attractions such as Langkawi, Ulu Muda, and the historical Lembah Bujang, attracting both domestic and international visitors. By promoting agro-tourism and heritage-driven experiences, Kedah aims to establish itself as a diverse tourism destination. The state government is dedicated to expanding strategic partnerships with related tourism stakeholders to enhance tourism offerings and boost economic impact,” he said.
He also officiated at the launch of the new logo design for Naturally Langkawi, which features a refreshed identity and an enhanced brand narrative focusing on three main pillars — “Nature, Culture, and Experience for this jewel island of Kedah”. The Naturally Langkawi brand narrative is inspired by the story of a land formed over 550 million years ago, highlighting the unique geology of Langkawi and its recognition as a UNESCO Global Geopark. Also present at the event was the Chief Executive Officer of the Langkawi Development Authority (LADA), YBhg Dato Haslina binti Abdul Hamid.
“Today, we’re excited to share something new. A fresh step forward for Langkawi as a world-class destination. A Bold New Chapter. We’re introducing the refreshed look and feel of our beloved brand – Naturally Langkawi – now with a design that feels bolder, more vibrant, and more welcoming but still proudly Langkawi at heart. The Naturally Langkawi brand narrative is built into the story of land 550 million years in the making, considering Langkawi’s unique geological make-up and the fact that it is recognised as a UNESCO Global Geopark,” YAB Dato’ Seri added.
MATTA president Nigel Wong expressed the association’s commitment in promoting domestic and inbound travel. “Our goal, as an association and a strategic partner for Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026), is to promote domestic and inbound tourism. We aim to bring Malaysia, along with its many unique attractions, to the global stage. MATTA firmly believes that tourism is a fundamental pillar for Malaysia’s economic growth and the empowerment of local communities.”
In line with its transition to sustainability, the association launched the MATTA Eco-Sustainable Tourism Initiative (MESTI). Developed as a structured pathway to a cleaner, kinder, and more conscious way of exploring Malaysia, MESTI is grounded by three core pillars — wildlife conservation, marine conservation, and cultural and historic preservation — this initiative empowers the travel industry and travellers alike to protect what makes Malaysia truly unique. MESTI will be implemented throughout all MATTA-led programs and events, starting with this fair.
As a Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) member, MATTA is aligning its efforts with internationally recognised sustainability standards. Through MESTI, MATTA will roll out dedicated awareness, training, and capacity-building programmes for its members, enabling them to embrace and implement responsible tourism practices across their businesses.
“We have a duty, as an association, to lead by example and encourage our members to adopt sustainable practices. Through this membership, we are taking active steps to align with global standards and provide our members with the tools and knowledge to implement real, measurable change. MESTI represents our shared responsibility to protect Malaysia’s natural and cultural treasures — not just for tourism, but for future generations,” Wong added.
As part of MATTA’s mission to promote sports tourism further, this MATTA Fair featured two dedicated pickleball courts at Level 1, Hall 4.
“Pickleball is a fast-growing sport that resonates across multiple age groups globally, uniting people from all walks of life. MATTA recognises this opportunity to promote and spotlight Malaysia as a sports tourism destination, and create inclusive travel and holiday experiences,” said Wong.
“These strategic initiatives reflect MATTA’s strong efforts to grow Malaysia’s tourism industry in a more sustainable, innovative, and inclusive manner, anchored by incorporating evolving travel trends, future-forward solutions, and global sustainability objectives.”
MATTA Fair, 18-20 April 2025, sponsors
1. Experience Kedah – Malaysia’s Favourite Destination 2. Macao – International Favourite Destination 3. RHB Bank – Exclusive Platinum Sponsor 4. Malaysia Aviation Group – Official Airline Partner & Premier Sponsor 5. High Commission of India – Sponsor 6. AmLeisure Media – Media Partner 7. Visit Malaysia 2026 – Strategic Partner
SINGAPORE, 21 April 2025: EL AL Israel Airlines has appointed APG as its General Sales Agent (GSA) in Japan, responsible for promoting and selling EL AL’s flights and services throughout Japan.
The strategic partnership aims to enhance EL AL’s presence in the region, offering Japanese travellers increased access to EL AL’s extensive network and services.
Photo credit: APG.
“We are delighted to be chosen by EL AL Israel Airlines as their GSA in Japan,” said APG Inc President & CEO Sandrine de Saint Sauveur.
“This partnership is a testament to our expertise and dedication in the aviation industry. We look forward to leveraging our local market knowledge and global reach to support EL AL’s growth in Japan.”
“We warmly welcome the partnership between EL AL and APG in Japan” said: EL AL Global GSA Director, Liat Yahav. “EL AL operates three weekly direct flights throughout the year. The frequencies have increased due to high demand. We look forward to successful cooperation and growth in the local market.
About El Al EL AL was founded in 1948 as Israel’s national carrier and operated its first scheduled flight in 1949. Today, EL AL, along with San D’or, a subsidiary of EL AL Israel Airlines, serves more than 50 international destinations in more than 30 countries.
EL AL currently flies an all-Boeing fleet of 47 aircraft and has entered into agreements to lease and purchase up to 12 more Boeing 787 aircraft and up to 31 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft.
About APG With over 30 years of experience in airline distribution and over 100 offices globally, APG partners with over 200 airline clients.
ABU DHABI, 21 April 2025: Etihad Airways is expanding its global network by launching flights to Peshawar, Pakistan, effective 29 September 2025.
The new route will connect Zayed International Airport, Abu Dhabi (AUH), with Bacha Khan International Airport (PEW) in Peshawar, offering seamless connections to Etihad’s growing list of destinations on its route map.
Photo credit: Etihad.
Peshawar, a city rich in history and culture, is an important hub for domestic and international travel. It joins Karachi, Islamabad and Lahore as Etihad’s fourth nonstop route to Pakistan.
Etihad will operate the route using its Airbus A320 aircraft, which features eight seats in business class and 150 in economy. Initially operating five weekly flights, frequencies will increase to daily beginning on 22 November 2025.
Etihad Airways Chief Executive Officer Antonoaldo Neves said: “We are thrilled to further expand our presence in Pakistan by launching our daily service between Abu Dhabi and Peshawar. This new route reflects our commitment to providing vital connectivity for travellers between Pakistan and the Gulf, Africa, Europe, and North America. In addition to new flights to Peshawar, we are boosting our frequency to Karachi to 17 flights a week from 1 October.”
This expansion follows the recent addition of Addis Ababa to Etihad’s network and marks the airline’s sixteenth new destination in 2025. Alongside Peshawar, Etihad has announced new routes to Prague, Warsaw, Algiers, Tunis, and Atlanta, while also increasing frequencies to key European cities, including Paris, Milan, Manchester, Frankfurt, Zurich, and Madrid.
SINGAPORE, 21 April 2025: Air France will introduce flights between Paris and Phuket during the 2025-2026 winter season starting November 2025.
It follows the launch of direct flights between Paris and Manila in the Philippines, which was introduced in the winter schedule for 2024/2025.
Photo credit: Air France. Phuket’s white sand and clear seas.
Effective 27 November 2025, the airline will offer three flights weekly on Monday, Thursday and Saturday between Paris-Charles de Gaulle and Phuket in southern Thailand. A Boeing 777-300ER aircraft will serve the route with 363 seats configured with first class, business class, premium economy and economy cabin.
Flight schedule
AF156 departs from Paris-Charles de Gaulle (CDG) at 1550 and arrives in Phuket (HKT) at 0925 plus a day. AF157 departs from Phuket (HKT) at 1150 and arrives in Paris-Charles de Gaulle (CDG) at 1910.
With this new route, Air France continues to meet the growing demand for travel to Asia. By winter 2025-2026, Air France will serve 11 destinations in Asia: Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh City, Hong Kong, Manila, Osaka, Beijing, Seoul, Shanghai, Singapore, Tokyo-Haneda, and Phuket.
Thailand’s largest island, Phuket, is famed for its beaches, lush landscapes, and a blend of traditional and modern culture. It is the perfect base for exploring neighbouring islands and the mainland on the Andaman Sea coast.
Phuket’s beach attractions
Patong Beach: The most famous and busiest beach, known for its vibrant nightlife, water sports, and bustling atmosphere.
Kata Beach: A beautiful stretch of soft sand with clear waters, popular for families and surfing during the low season.
Karon Beach: The second-longest beach in Phuket, offering a more relaxed atmosphere than Patong, with ample space for strolling and water activities.
Surin Beach: Known for its clear waters and upscale resorts, it is a great spot for relaxation and enjoying the sunset.
Mai Khao Beach: The longest beach in Phuket, located near the airport, offering a tranquil escape and unique “plane spotting” opportunities.
Nai Harn Beach: A popular beach in the south of the island, known for its natural beauty and a more laid-back vibe than the west coast beaches.
Phuket Old Town
It is historically rich and showcases Sino-Portuguese architecture, reflecting the island’s tin-mining past and cultural fusion.
Colourful Shophouses: Well-preserved buildings lining the streets, now housing cafes, restaurants, galleries, and shops.
Thalang Road: A main street with a vibrant atmosphere, offering local crafts, ice cream parlors, and often hosting the Sunday Walking Street Market.
Soi Romanee: A charming lane known for its beautifully restored buildings and cafes.
Phuket Thai Hua Museum: Exhibits detailing the history and culture of Chinese immigrants in Phuket.
Jui Tui Shrine: A colourful and significant Chinese temple.
Big Buddha: A prominent landmark and one of the most revered sites on the island situated on Nakkerd Hill. The viewpoint offers panoramic 360-degree views of southern Phuket, including Chalong Bay, Kata, and Karon.
