Saturday, September 12, 2026
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25hours Hotel lands in Bangkok

BANGKOK, 3 September 2026: Ennismore, a lifestyle hospitality company, in partnership with Thailand’s Central Pattana, announces the signing of 25hours Hotel Bangkok, the brand’s first property in Thailand. 

Scheduled to open in Q1 2029 as part of CenTRal cENtrAL, Bangkok’s landmark new mixed-use destination, the hotel will introduce 25hours’ distinctive approach to one of the city’s most exciting new urban developments.

Photo credit: Central Pattana.

Located in Siam Square, Bangkok’s epicentre of youth culture, creativity and constant reinvention, 25hours Hotel Bangkok will open as a meeting point for seekers and dreamers alike. 

Positioned a short distance from Chulalongkorn University and the skytrain at Siam Station, the hotel forms part of CenTRal cENtrAL, Central Pattana’s next-generation mixed-use destination representing The Future of Siam Square. 

The 345-room hotel will embody the brand’s distinctive approach to story- and art-led hospitality, drawing inspiration from Bangkok’s creative spirit and layered urban identity. 

Throughout the hotel, the design narrative celebrates Siam Square’s unique character. Inspired by its maze of independent boutiques, pop-ups, creative studios, as well as the district’s Art Deco-influenced architectural legacy

Ennismore Chief Operations Officer Sylvain Pasdeloup said: “Bangkok is a city of contrasts, creativity and constant motion – exactly the kind of place where 25hours thrives. With this project, we’re creating more than a hotel; we’re shaping a living, breathing space where culture, community and creativity come together. It will reflect the spirit of Siam Square – a place for discovery, expression and exchange, while marking an exciting next step in the continued growth of Ennismore and 25hours Hotels across Asia.”

Central Pattana Head of Hotels and Alternative Investments, Phoom Chirathivat said: “Siam Square has always been a truly special part of Bangkok — a place where generations of Thai people have come together to discover, connect and express themselves. We are delighted to partner with Ennismore to bring 25hours Hotels to this iconic neighbourhood, creating a new destination that celebrates the creativity, energy and unique character of Siam Square while welcoming guests from around the world.”

25hours continues its expansion across Europe, the Middle East and Asia Pacific, with a growing portfolio of hotels in culturally rich urban destinations. Each new opening reflects the brand’s commitment to creating immersive, story-driven experiences inspired by the character of their surroundings, where bold design, local culture and community come together. The signing also reinforces Ennismore’s continued growth across Asia, as it expands its portfolio of lifestyle brands and destinations throughout the region.

(Source: Ennismore)

Thai AirAsia ushers in Silver Care for seniors

BANGKOK, 3 September 2026: Thai AirAsia rolls out “Silver Care,” a dedicated service designed to ensure senior travellers enjoy a more comfortable and convenient journey on all domestic flights across Thailand. 

Guests aged 60 and above can now unlock exclusive Silver Care perks — including Priority Check-in, Priority Baggage claim, and a Seat Together service (subject to standard seat availability) — all at no extra cost. Present a valid ID card at the check-in counter to access these privileges for the eligible senior guest and one travel companion.

Photo credit: Thai AirAsia. Seniors enjoy Silver Care on Thai AirAsia domestic flights.

“Thai AirAsia is constantly elevating our service quality to meet the needs of all our guests,” said Thai AirAsia Head of Commercial 

Tansita Akrarittipirom. “Our senior travellers, aged 60 and up, are a highly valued group who continually place their trust in AirAsia. We introduced the Silver Care programme to make travelling smoother for both our senior guests and their families, ensuring that when they fly with us, they experience our utmost care and attention.

“To support the Silver Care initiative, we have conducted specialised training for our ground staff and cabin crew, empowering them to better understand and assist our senior guests,” Tansita added. “Coupled with these new travel perks on all domestic flights, Silver Care launches in time for the bustling year-end travel season. With dedicated channels and specialised services ready to go, senior travellers and their families can enjoy total peace of mind from the moment they arrive at the airport to the minute they reach their destination.”

For guests departing from Don Mueang International Airport (DMK), the Silver Care experience begins with a breezy check-in at the dedicated Counter 10J in Domestic Terminal 2. 

All seniors need to do is keep an eye out for the Silver Care signage and friendly ground Allstars who are ready to assist.

At check-in, checked luggage will be tagged with a special priority label, ensuring swift, hassle-free baggage claim at the destination airport.

(Source: Thai AirAsia)

Royal Cliff Hotels Group supports local community

PATTAYA, 2 September 2026: As part of its long-standing commitment to supporting the local community, the Royal Cliff Hotels Group management team continues its annual tradition of visiting charitable organisations, including the Pattaya Redemptorist School for the Blind.

Led by Managing Director and CEO, Khun Panga Vathanakul and Khun Vitanart Vathanakul, Royal Cliff’s talented culinary team prepared a delicious lunch for the children and staff. In addition, the Royal Cliff proudly presented a donation of THB100,000 to support the school’s invaluable work and help enhance the lives of the children in its care.

Adding to the joy of the occasion, the Royal Cliff was delighted to welcome one of Thailand’s beloved actresses, Khun Punyaporn Poonpipat, together with her fan club. They treated the children to a variety of sweet delights, including refreshing Korean bingsu, creating a day filled with laughter, happiness, and unforgettable memories.

“The Royal Cliff Hotels Group extends its heartfelt gratitude to the children and staff for their incredibly warm welcome and the beautiful songs they performed. Their courage, resilience, and unwavering positivity in the face of life’s challenges inspire us all. We left with grateful hearts and a renewed appreciation for the strength, hope, and joy they share with everyone around them,” said Khun Vitanart Vathanakul, CEO of Royal Cliff Hotels Group. “Royal Cliff Hotels Group believes that even the smallest act of kindness can make a meaningful difference. Together, we can help build a brighter future for our community.” 

One of Thailand’s beloved actresses, Khun Punyaporn Poonpipat, delighted the children with a special speech, filling the day with smiles, laughter and happiness.

Perched atop a 64-acre private estate with breathtaking views of the Gulf of Thailand, the Royal Cliff Hotels Group boasts four award-winning hotels that welcome charming travellers from all corners of the world. The resort offers a world of exceptional experiences through thoughtfully curated promotions and packages. Guests are encouraged to book directly with Royal Cliff to enjoy the best available rates and exclusive value-added privileges. To secure the premium experience you deserve, visit www.royalcliff.com, call our Reservations team at (+66) 38 250 421 ext. 2732, or email [email protected].

Khun Punyaporn Poonpipat, together with her wonderful fan club, generously treated the children to a variety of sweet delights, creating a joyful and memorable experience for everyone.

For more information about the Royal Cliff Hotels Group CSR programme, visit https://www.royalcliff.com/main/green-program-csr/  or follow Royal Cliff Hotels Group on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/royalcliff

(Source: Your Stories — Royal Cliff Hotels Group)

Emirates’ Mauritius flights gain premium economy

PORT LOUIS, Mauritius, 2 September 2026: Emirates has introduced its  Premium Economy cabin on two of its three daily flights between Mauritius and Dubai since 1 September 2026.

Premium Economy is available on flights EK703/704, operated by Emirates’ A380, and EK709/710, operated by a retrofitted Boeing 777. 

Both widebody aircraft will operate in three-class configurations, offering more options and choice to suit travellers’ preferences when booking flights to and from Mauritius.

Emirates’ flagship A380 aircraft operating flights EK703/704 feature 76 Business Class seats, 56 seats in Premium Economy and 437 Economy Class seats, while the Boeing 777 operating EK709/710 offers 38 Business Class seats, 24 Premium Economy seats and 214 Economy Class seats.

Emirates has been operating in Mauritius since 2002.

(Source: Emirates)

TMX 2027 4th edition sets dates

BANGKOK, 2 September 2026: Following the successful conclusion of its third annual edition, Thailand MICE X-Change 2027 (TMX 2027) is set to return for its fourth edition from 29 to 30 April 2027 at IMPACT Exhibition and Convention Centre, Bangkok.

Organised by the Thai Exhibition Association (TEA), TMX has established itself as one of Thailand’s leading MICE exhibitions and conferences and an increasingly influential platform for the ASEAN business events industry. 

Created by the “industry, for the industry”, TMX is dedicated to promoting the strategic value of MICE among corporate organisations while positioning business events as a powerful platform for face-to-face engagement, brand building, business networking and commercial growth.

The theme for TMX 2027, “From Innovation to IMPACT: Shaping the Future of MICE,” reflects the industry’s continued transformation through digital innovation, sustainability and collaborative partnerships. The event will showcase new ideas, emerging technologies, and best practices to help shape the next generation of business events.

Beyond the exhibition, TMX serves as an important annual meeting point for industry professionals from Thailand and across the Asia-Pacific region to connect, forge strategic partnerships and exchange knowledge. Through its trade exhibition, curated business matching programme and high-level conference, TMX provides valuable insights into emerging trends, market opportunities and the future direction of the MICE industry.

Covering more than 5,000 sqm of exhibition space, TMX 2027 will welcome over 100 local and international exhibitors and more than 4,000 trade visitors and conference delegates representing the MICE, business events and travel sectors from across the Asia-Pacific region. 

Building on the success of the previous edition, the event should facilitate more than 400 pre-arranged one-to-one business matching meetings, surpassing the achievements recorded in 2026.

A major highlight of the event will be the TMX X-Change Square Conference, featuring more than 20 conference sessions over two days, delivered by more than 30 industry experts and thought leaders. The conference programme will offer practical, hands-on insights covering a broad range of topics, including the evolving role of venues, sales and marketing strategies, event project management, artificial intelligence, business matching, consumer exhibition trends, venue operations, logistics, booth construction and design, sustainability, and other key developments shaping the future of the industry.

Thai Exhibition Association (TEA) President Loy Joon How said: “Thailand’s exhibition industry continues to evolve into a dynamic business ecosystem where industries come together to connect, innovate, trade and grow. Through TMX, we are committed to accelerating digital transformation, advancing sustainability and strengthening international partnerships to reinforce Thailand’s position as one of Asia’s most dynamic, competitive and resilient MICE destinations.”

TMX 2027 will once again be co-located with the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) ’s MICE Day, demonstrating the strength of public-private collaboration in advancing Thailand’s business events industry.

This partnership is particularly significant as the global MICE sector navigates an increasingly complex landscape shaped by geopolitical tensions, trade uncertainties, economic pressures and rising operating costs. Against this backdrop, TMX 2027 aims to strengthen industry capabilities and equip businesses to adapt to global trends, including digital transformation, artificial intelligence, sustainability and rapidly evolving customer expectations.

Loy added: “While technology continues to transform how we do business, face-to-face engagement remains irreplaceable in building trust, creating meaningful connections and generating long-term business opportunities. TMX provides the platform where these connections translate into lasting partnerships and sustainable growth.”

For more information, visit www.tmxexpo.com

The event is managed by

Impact Exhibition Management Co Ltd
10th Fl, Bangkok Land Building
47/569-576 Popular 3 Road, Banmai Sub-district,
Pakkred District, Nonthaburi 11120
Greater Bangkok, Thailand.

About the organiser
The Thailand Exhibition Association (TEA) was established in 1997 by a group of pioneers in Thailand’s exhibition industry who shared a strong commitment to advancing and sustaining the country’s exhibition sector. Today, TEA’s membership — primarily based in Bangkok and key MICE cities across Thailand — comprises four main categories: Organisers, Venues, Service Providers, and Freight Forwarders.

(Source: TMX Expo 2027)

Experience Chinatown Singapore

SINGAPORE, 2 September 2026: The Mid-Autumn Festival in Chinatown Singapore comes alive with the warmth of tradition, community, and celebration as the Chinatown Business Association (CBA), together with the Singapore Poon Yue Association and Kong Chow Wui Koon, jointly presents cultural experiences and heritage performances on 19 September 2026.

Held at Smith Street, Chinatown, Singapore, the celebration invites international visitors and Singaporeans to discover the rich traditions behind one of the most cherished Chinese festivals, while enjoying an afternoon of music, performances, traditional crafts, and interactive activities.

A celebration of traditional arts and performances

The festivities at the main stage on Smith Street, Chinatown, Singapore will begin at 1400 on 19 September 2026, with the official opening featuring an energetic lion dance and a Wushu performance by Kong Chow Wui Koon. The dynamic showcase will highlight the strength, discipline and artistry of traditional Chinese martial arts.

Visitors can also discover the stories and traditions behind the Mid-Autumn Festival through a traditional lantern-making talk, offering fascinating insights into the craftsmanship, symbolism and cultural significance of lanterns.

As the afternoon unfolds, music and community spirit will take centre stage, with lively ukulele performances and community singing at 1500 and 1645. Audiences are invited to join in, sing along and celebrate the spirit of togetherness that lies at the heart of the Mid-Autumn Festival.

Games and prizes for the community

The festivities will also feature interactive games designed to bring local visitors and international visitors together. At 3.30pm, put your knowledge to the test with “Make a Guess”, where participants can take part in a fun guessing game with 30 F&B vouchers up for grabs.

Heritage enthusiasts can then challenge themselves with the “Where Am I?” Heritage Game at 1600 and 1700. Participants will be invited to identify heritage locations and clues around Chinatown Singapore, with 30 F&B vouchers to be won by participants who successfully answer the challenge.

Creative with traditional crafts

Children and families can immerse themselves in hands-on cultural activities throughout the day. The “Lantern Painting Competition” invites young international visitors and Singaporeans (aged 7 to 12 years) to let their creativity shine by decorating the provided lanterns. Participants need to register online at www.chinatown.sg before 9 September 2026. The competition begins at 0930, with participants taking part according to their assigned time slots. “Lantern Painting Competition” participants will receive a complimentary F&B voucher worth SGD10 each.

Visitors can also experience a range of traditional arts and crafts presented by the Singapore Poon Yue Association, including paper cutting, handmade crafts, calligraphy, and fan dyeing. These activities offer younger generations the chance to experience traditional Chinese arts first-hand, while encouraging families to learn, create, and celebrate together.

Keeping culture and heritage alive

More than a festive gathering, the Mid-Autumn Festival at Smith Street, Chinatown Singapore is an opportunity to keep traditional culture alive by bringing meaningful heritage experiences into the heart of the community.

Through traditional performances, crafts, music, storytelling, and games, visitors of all ages can discover the customs, stories, and traditions passed down through generations. The festivities bring international tourists and local visitors together in the shared spirit of reunion, harmony and togetherness — values that remain at the heart of the Mid-Autumn Festival today.

More information is available at Chinatown.sg.

About Chinatown Business Association
Chinatown Business Association (CBA) was set up by a group of passionate Chinatown stakeholders drawn from a cross-section of business leaders, grassroots leaders, Chinese clan associations, hoteliers, hawkers, retailers, and more. CBA is a non-profit organisation serving the business and community interests of stakeholders in Chinatown.

(Source: CBA)

Cathay celebrates 80 years

SINGAPORE, 2 September 2026: Established in 1946, Cathay Pacific celebrates its 80th anniversary this year, with exclusive offers through its Cathay AnniFAREsary promotion, featuring flight offers, bonus Asia Miles and lifestyle rewards.

Throughout September 2026, Cathay Pacific is offering special fares across all cabin classes to nearly 40 destinations in the airline’s network. The offer is valid for travel through August 2027.

Photo credit: Cathay Pacific

In addition, from 1 to 15 September 2026, Cathay members can enjoy additional savings on flights and repeat bookings when they book on the airline’s website or app.

SGD 80 off

• Hong Kong, selected destinations in Northeast Asia and the Chinese Mainland.

• Valid for travel from 15 September to 10 December 2026.

• Limited to the first 500 transactions.

SGD 138 off

• Selected destinations in North America, Europe, Australia and New Zealand.

• Valid for travel from 15 September to 10 December 2026.

• Limited to the first 50 transactions.

28% off

• Next Economy class ticket.

• Valid for travel from 8 January to 23 May 2027.

Extra lifestyle and travel rewards

Beyond airfare savings, Cathay AnniFAREsary extends the celebrations across the Cathay experience, offering members more ways to enjoy extra savings and rewards:

Offer details

Up to 1,946 bonus Asia Miles

 *   Members who purchase a ticket and have 8 or 0 in their membership number can receive 866 Asia Miles.

 *   20% off selected lifestyle rewards until 30 September 2026 when redeemed with Asia Miles.

Flight + Hotel packages

 *   SGD 130 off Flight + Hotel packages to Hong Kong.

 *   Minimum of two travellers.

Hong Kong retailer discounts

 *   Up to 40% off at 80 participating retailers in Hong Kong with a valid boarding pass.

For full details on Cathay’s AnniFAREsary offers, visit: www.cathaypacific.com/cx/en_SG/offers/80yearstogether/flight.html

(Source: Cathay Pacific)

Etihad campaign: Beyond Borders

ABU DHABI, UAE, 2 September 2026: Etihad Airways launches a new brand campaign headlined “Beyond Borders’ which illustrates there is no limit to where that journey can take us next.

Etihad Airways Chief Executive Officer Antonoaldo Neves explains: “Beyond Borders is a new chapter for Etihad. Every route we fly, every guest we carry and every partnership we build reflects the same ambition that Abu Dhabi was built from.

Photo credit: Etihad. New brand campaign — Beyond Borders.

This city gave us an identity, a purpose, and a reason to reach further, and everything we’ve built as an airline over the past 23 years reflects that.

“Beyond Borders is a mindset that guides how Etihad flies, serves and grows, carrying the same restless ambition the airline has grown from into the decades ahead.”

This approach translates into clear, tangible ambitions for Etihad: investing USD20 billion over the next 10 years in new aircraft, enhanced products and an elevated guest experience; growing its global network with purpose to reach more than 150 destinations; deepening partnerships that connect the world to Abu Dhabi and bring value to guests; and building an airline that reflects the identity of its home. 

(Source: Etihad)

SalamAir flies to Sylhet, Bangladesh

MUSCAT, Oman, 2 September 2026: SalamAir, Oman’s low-cost carrier, has launched its first direct flight between Muscat and Sylhet, Bangladesh, becoming the first foreign airline to operate scheduled services to the city. 

Sylhet becomes SalamAir’s third destination in Bangladesh, further strengthening international connectivity and expanding the airline’s presence across the Indian Subcontinent.  The other two destinations in Bangladesh are Dhaka and Chittagong.

The inaugural flight departed Muscat International Airport on 1 September with a load factor of approximately 70%, reflecting encouraging demand for the new route. 

To commemorate the occasion, SalamAir CEO Adrian Hamilton-Manns and representatives met with Mahmudur Rahman, Chargé d’Affaires of the Embassy of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh in Oman, before the flight’s departure. 

Upon arrival at Osmani International Airport, the flight was welcomed with an official ceremony attended by senior representatives from SalamAir, airport authorities, government officials, aviation partners, and the media. 

The new service provides passengers with a convenient, affordable direct connection between Oman and Bangladesh, meeting the travel needs of one of the Sultanate’s largest expatriate communities.  It will also reduce the need for connecting journeys through other airports, offering passengers shorter travel times and greater convenience. 

Commenting on the launch of SalamAir, Chief Commercial Officer Steven Allen said: “The launch of our service to Sylhet, SalamAir’s third destination in Bangladesh, marks an important milestone in our continued expansion across the Indian Subcontinent. As the first foreign airline to operate scheduled services to Sylhet, we are opening a new international gateway and providing the Bangladeshi community in Oman with a more convenient and affordable travel option.” 

The launch of Sylhet reflects SalamAir’s broader network strategy to expand into markets with strong direct travel demand and connect underserved communities. It also supports the objectives of Oman Vision 2040 by strengthening the Sultanate’s international connectivity and contributing to the growth of the aviation and tourism sectors. 

Flights are available for booking through SalamAir’s website, mobile application, call centre and authorised travel agencies. 

Flight schedule

OV421 departs Muscat (MCT) at 0045 and arrives in Sylhet (ZYL) at 0735. Three flights weekly — Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.
OV422 departs Sylhet (ZYL) at 0820 and arrives in Muscat (MCT) at 1120. (Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday). 

The airline deploys an A321neo with 217 seats on the route with a flight time of four hours and 50 minutes.

About SalamAir 
SalamAir is Oman’s low-cost airline, commencing operations in 2017 with a mission to make air travel more affordable and accessible while strengthening connectivity to high-potential and underserved markets. Today, the airline operates a modern fleet of 18 Airbus A320neo Family aircraft, serving more than 40 destinations across the Middle East, Africa, Asia and Europe, with over 90 daily flights. In February 2026, SalamAir announced the completion of the Government of Oman’s majority ownership in the airline, supporting the Sultanate’s tourism ambitions, economic diversification and Oman Vision 2040. 

(Source: SalamAir)

Thailand can share success with Vietnam

BANGKOK, 2 September 2026: As Vietnam surges ahead, Thailand has an opportunity to turn competition into collaboration and take the lead in creating a new generation of multi-country ASEAN holidays

For decades, Thailand has been one of Southeast Asia’s great tourism success stories. Bangkok, Phuket, Pattaya, Chiang Mai and our wonderful islands are recognised around the world.

But Vietnam is gaining ground fast, and Thailand would be wise to pay close attention.

In 2025, Vietnam welcomed a record 21.2 million international visitors, more than 20 per cent above the previous year. Thailand received approximately 33 million, down 7.2%.

It is tempting to portray this simply as Vietnam rising while Thailand declines.

I think that misses a much bigger opportunity.

Vietnam isn’t replacing Thailand. Increasingly, it is learning how to share Thailand’s tourists.

Russia provides a fascinating example. Russian travellers have enjoyed a long love affair with Thailand, particularly Phuket and Pattaya. Thailand welcomed almost 1.9 million Russians in 2025.

But Russians are now also falling in love with Vietnam.

Vietnam received almost 690,000 Russian visitors in 2025, nearly three times the previous year’s total. Nha Trang and Phu Quoc are increasingly competing for travellers who might once have automatically chosen Phuket, Pattaya or Samui.

Should Thailand see this simply as a threat?

In my view, no.

Perhaps it is time to revisit one of ASEAN tourism’s oldest ambitions: getting its member countries to work together more effectively as one great regional destination.

Historically, that has often been easier to discuss than to deliver, but today’s traveller is changing. Better air connectivity, competitive fares and easier entry arrangements make two- and three-country holidays increasingly practical.

Thailand, with its extraordinary tourism infrastructure and Bangkok’s position as one of Asia’s great aviation gateways, is ideally placed to take the lead.

Imagine selling not simply Thailand, but Thailand plus Vietnam. Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Hanoi. Bangkok, Phuket and Phu Quoc. Or Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia combined into one memorable Asian journey.

Instead of worrying about losing four nights of a 14-night holiday to Vietnam, we should ask whether working together could persuade that visitor to spend 18 or 21 nights in Southeast Asia.

This is not an entirely new idea. Specialist travel agents and DMCs have been offering multi-country ASEAN itineraries for as long as I can remember, certainly since I arrived in Thailand in 1991, and they have regularly featured around major regional gatherings such as the ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF).

What feels different today is the scale of the opportunity. Perhaps now is the time to supercharge the concept, with stronger regional leadership and a clearer framework for cooperation. Thailand, with its tourism experience, connectivity and established position as a regional gateway, is ideally placed to take the lead.

The goal should be simple: make it easier and more attractive for visitors to combine two or three ASEAN countries in one holiday, while ensuring Thailand remains at the heart of that journey.

That, to me, is where the real opportunity lies.

Experience has taught me that destinations can never afford to take their visitors for granted. Vietnam is improving quickly, with excellent food, culture, beaches, resorts and tremendous value.

Under ASEAN, connected through food, people and culture.

Thailand still possesses formidable advantages: mature infrastructure, superb hotels, outstanding hospitality, food, wellness, shopping and an enviable position at the heart of the region.

So why not use them?

Thailand should take the initiative and help turn ASEAN’s long-standing ambition of greater tourism cooperation into something travellers can actually buy.

The question need not be: Thailand or Vietnam?

Increasingly, it could be: Thailand and Vietnam. Perhaps Laos too.

That is not surrendering tourists to our neighbours. It is giving them another reason to come to Southeast Asia, stay longer and, importantly, keep Thailand at the centre of their journey.

About the author
Andrew J Wood is a British-born travel writer and former hotelier who has lived in Thailand since 1991. A graduate of Napier University, Edinburgh, he has spent more than four decades in international hospitality and tourism.
A long-standing member of Skål International, Andrew is a former Director of Skål International and Past President of Skål International Asia, Thailand and Bangkok. He currently serves as Vice President of Skål International Bangkok. He writes extensively about travel, tourism, hospitality and developments shaping the industry across Thailand, ASEAN and the Asia-Pacific region.