HANOI, 14 January 2026: Bhaya Cruises in Ha Long Bay, Vietnam, is extending its wellness cruises from January through March 2026, following the success of its inaugural Sanctuary series late last year.
Bhaya Cruises confirms the extension of its Bhaya Soul ‘Soul Sanctuary’ wellness cruises that “weave Vietnamese heritage, creativity and inner calm into each sailing,” set against the limestone seascape of UNESCO-listed Ha Long Bay.
Photo credit: Bhaya Cruises.
Soul Sanctuary Experiences aboard Bhaya Soul
23 January 2026: Silk Watercolour Painting
An introduction to the year, this session explores the delicate art of watercolour on silk, encouraging flow, presence and creative expression. Guests work on pre-sketched silk frames using specialised pigments, with their finished artwork beautifully packed to take home.
22 February 2026: Modern Đông Hồ Painting
A contemporary interpretation of Vietnam’s iconic folk art, this hands-on experience brings Đông Hồ storytelling traditions to life on handcrafted silk fans, blending symbolism, culture and personal intention.
24 March 2026: Flower Arranging
Mark the season of renewal through the mindful art of floral composition, learning to balance form, colour and space while creating an arrangement inspired by harmony in nature and within.
With just 20 cabins, each featuring a private terrace and bay-view bathtub, Bhaya Soul offers a rare sense of privacy and tranquillity, including a complimentary 40-minute spa treatment per guest, personalised service and an unhurried on-board atmosphere.
BANGKOK, 14 January 2026: The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) has renewed its preferred partnership with data analytics company Euromonitor International, a leading independent provider of global business intelligence, market analysis, and consumer insights.
By working with Euromonitor International, a recognised leader in global market, industry, economic, and consumer research, PATA strengthens its ability to deliver insights that go beyond surface-level trends.
Euromonitor International’s analytical depth and cross-sector expertise provide valuable context for understanding the forces shaping traveller behaviour, market competitiveness, and investment potential across the Asia-Pacific region. The collaboration supports destinations and businesses – both members of PATA and across the industry at large – in making informed, evidence-based decisions that enhance regional competitiveness and drive sustainable and inclusive industry growth.
PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid said: “The core purpose of PATA has always been to ensure that practical, expert-centric insights are accessible to members and the broader industry in the Asia Pacific region. Partnering with Euromonitor International advances this commitment to the next level, enabling us to deliver even greater context and clarity in understanding the forces shaping travel across our region that further support strategic tourism planning.”
He added, “We are pleased to begin this collaboration with Euromonitor International. Their global market expertise complements PATA’s regional focus, and together we aim to provide a clearer view of where the industry is heading over the next few years.”
Through this collaboration, Euromonitor International will contribute a dedicated analytical article to accompany the PATA Asia Pacific Destination Forecasts 2026–2028 reports.
PATA Asia Pacific Destination Forecasts 2026–2028 will feature a four- to five-page article presenting data-driven global economic insights from Euromonitor International. A forecast webinar will complement the publication, providing PATA members and industry professionals with a deeper understanding of the analysis and its implications.
About PATA The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) is a not-for-profit membership association dedicated to advancing a meaningful Pacific Asia tourism economy. It brings together governments, industry leaders, academia, and communities to drive positive, lasting change. Founded in 1951 and headquartered in Bangkok, the Association also has an official office in Beijing. Visit www.PATA.org
About Euromonitor International Euromonitor International delivers data analytics and research into markets, industries, economies and consumers. It has 16 offices worldwide, with 1000+ analysts covering 210 countries.
HONG KONG, 14 January 2026: Cathay welcomes the release of Igniting the SAF Market: Policy Pathways for Scaling Sustainable Aviation Fuel in China, a research study published by Peking University’s National School of Development in late 2025.
The in-depth analysis and recommendations outlined in the study offer actionable insights on scaling SAF adoption in the Chinese Mainland through market measures on both supply and demand fronts.
Photo credit: Cathay Group.
The study examines the challenges and untapped potential in scaling SAF in the Chinese Mainland, benchmarking global best practices while drawing parallels with China’s thriving solar photovoltaic industry. The report highlights China’s unique feedstock and manufacturing advantages and projects long-term cost implications across various production pathways.
Notably, the Power-to-Liquid (PtL) pathway — best known for producing electro-sustainable aviation fuel (eSAF) — shows the most significant potential for long-term cost reduction. The study notes that, with appropriate policy support, SAF produced locally via PtL may achieve price parity with conventional jet fuel (including China’s projected 2030 carbon price) when cumulative eSAF output reaches 1.6 million tonnes.
In addition, the study recommends a multi-pronged approach to growing the national SAF industry and capturing long-term cost benefits, ranging from policy integration and market demand stimulation to expanding international market access and establishing procurement mechanisms that ensure stable supply and demand.
Cathay General Manager Sustainability Grace Cheung noted: “As a vital player in global aviation and the SAF ecosystem, the Chinese Mainland’s development of its domestic SAF industry not only capitalises on global momentum and supports national carbon targets, but also helps promote the availability and affordability of SAF needed by the global aviation industry.
“This study by Peking University is encouraging, as it demonstrates the long-term potential for cost parity between SAF and conventional jet fuel, provided there is sufficient support for the development of new technologies and large-scale SAF production, along with policies that support SAF deployment from both demand and supply sides. Such progress will be essential for global airlines to realise further SAF usage in a commercially viable way.”
Cathay has long supported SAF development in the Chinese Mainland. The airline was among the early ones to uplift Chinese-made SAF products at Hong Kong International Airport, Amsterdam Schiphol, and London Heathrow.
SAF continues to play a critical role in aviation’s path to decarbonisation. Compared to conventional jet fuel, SAF can reduce carbon emissions by around 80% on a lifecycle basis, based on the SAF procured by the Cathay Group in 2024.
The full Peking University research study (PDF version) is available at this link.
SINGAPORE, 14 January 2026: Oceania Cruises is adopting an adults-only policy that came into effect on 1 January 2026 on all of its cruises.
It means families with children under 18 are not permitted on Oceania Cruises, which claims it is ushering in a new era of “tranquillity and sophistication” at sea.
The cruise line will exclusively welcome guests aged 18 and older for all new reservations for future voyages. However, all existing reservations made before 7 January 2026 that include travellers under 18 will be fully honoured.
The policy shift “reflects Oceania Cruises’ dedication to providing a relaxed atmosphere of genuine hospitality and meaningful connection – hallmarks of its celebrated voyages,” the cruise line statement explained.
“Our guests have consistently shared that the tranquil environment aboard our ships is one of the primary reasons they return time and time,” stated Oceania Cruises Chief Luxury Officer Jason Montague. “By transitioning to an adults-only experience, we are enhancing the very essence of the Oceania Cruises journey — one defined by sophistication, serenity and discovery.”
Oceania Cruises conducted extensive research, including feedback from loyal repeat guests, experienced travel partners, and new-to-brand guests. Feedback consistently showed that guests choose Oceania Cruises for its serene atmosphere, sophisticated service and unhurried pace, traits that are highly sought after and valued by mature, affluent travellers.
MUMBAI, 14 January 2026: Thomas Cook (India) Limited has expanded its Nature Trails brand by launching the Nature Trails Rock Valley in Ponda, Goa, featuring a distinctive resort focused on outdoor activities and nature experiences.
It joins three existing Nature Trails-branded resorts at Durshet, Sajan, and Kundalika in Maharashtra.
Photo credit: Thomas Cook India. Nature Trails Rock Valley at Ponda, Goa.
Located in Ponda, in a scenic valley at the foothills of the Western Ghats, the property spans 15 acres and features rooms with views of the surrounding forests, river, and open farmland, each exceeding 250 sq ft, complemented by private sit-out areas.
The resort offers an immersive connection with the outdoors. Among the key highlights are two infinity pools – one overlooking the valley and the other a river, and an extensive integrated adventure zone.
Guests can also engage in adventure experiences such as zip-lining, high- and low-rope courses, archery, target shooting, ATV rides, rappelling, and kayaking, with safety ensured by trained facilitators and professionally guided instruction. The resort will suit families, friend groups and corporate team-building engagements and conferences
Water-based experiences like kayaking and boating on the Khandepar backwaters allow guests to explore the landscape at a slower pace. The resort also features an in-house spice farm, offering guided walks that introduce guests to Goa’s spice heritage, biodiversity and local ecology.
In addition, Nature Trails Rock Valley Goa offers experiential learning opportunities for school and college groups through curated, nature-based programmes and activities designed and conducted by Nature Trails — combining outdoor adventure, environmental awareness and hands-on learning.
Stays at Nature Trails Rock Valley, Goa, include all-inclusive dining, presenting Goan specialities alongside other Indian and global cuisines. Guests have access to scenic walking trails, common recreation areas and dedicated spaces for children.
Nature Trails Rock Valley is just an hour’s drive from Dabolim Airport, a 40-minute drive from Madgaon Station and 45 minutes from Colva beach.
Thomas Cook (India) Limited Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Mahesh Iyer said: “Nature Trails is Thomas Cook’s strategic investment to tap into India’s booming domestic market by offering experience-led travel offerings blending nature, activity” … “Our expansion beyond Maharashtra into Goa was logical, given Goa’s strong year-round appeal, connectivity, varied landscapes and appeal across multiple traveler segments. We plan to open more Nature Trails resorts at other exciting destinations.”
Resort Details Nature Trails Rock Valley, Goa 140/3, Madapar, Kodor, Ponda, Goa – 403406
MANILA, 14 January 2026: AirAsia Philippines begins 2026 by announcing two new routes to Vietnam, serving Hanoi and Da Nang from its Manila base.
Both routes will commence on 20 March 2026 and reinforce AirAsia’s growing presence in Southeast Asia, and offer Filipino travellers more affordable options to explore the region.
Photo credit: AirAsia Philippines
Travellers can book flights from Manila to Hanoi and Da Nang, with introductory one-way base fares starting at PHP888 (USD14.97) exclusive of fees and surcharges, until 1 February 2026, for travel from 20 March to 25 October 2026.
The addition of Vietnam to AirAsia Philippines’ route network builds on the airline’s recent expansion, including the launch of its Cebu hub, and underscores its commitment to improving regional connectivity.
“The addition of Vietnam to our route network highlights AirAsia Philippines’ commitment to growth and leadership in the budget travel market. We hope to give Filipino travellers more choices, better value, and easier access to exciting destinations in Southeast Asia. We also aim to bring more tourists to the Philippines to contribute to economic growth,” said AirAsia Philippines CEO and President Suresh Bangah.
AirAsia Philippines will operate four weekly flights to Hanoi and Da Nang, departing every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday, with afternoon and evening departures. The airline operates A320S with 180 seats on these routes.
Flight schedule
Manila-Hanoi route
Z2840 departs Manila (MNL) at 1735 and arrives in Hanoi (HAN) at 1945. Z2841 departs Hanoi (HAN) at 2020 and arrives in Manila (MNL) at 0045 plus a day. Flight time: Three hours and 25 minutes.
Competition is intense on this route, with three airlines competing for passenger loyalty. Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific operate 10 weekly flights, and Vietnam Airlines operates daily flights. The average one-way fare is USD240.
Manila-Da Nang route
Z2824 departs Manila (MNL) at 1350 and arrives in Da Nang (DAD) at 1600. Z2825 departs Da Nang (DAD) at 1725 and arrives in Manila (MNL) at 2055. Flight time: Two hours and 30 minutes.
Two airlines compete on the route: Cebu Pacific (10 weekly flights) and PAL (daily). The average one-way fare is USD300.
(Source: AirAsia Philippines, Kayak and additional reporting)
HONG KONG, 13 January 2026: Hong Kong readies to welcome the Year of the Horse with the Cathay International Chinese New Year Night Parade, transforming the city into a glittering carnival of light, music, and festive spirit.
Beginning at 2000, on 17 February, the Parade will start from the Hong Kong Cultural Centre and travel through major roads in Tsim Sha Tsui — including Canton Road, Haiphong Road, and Nathan Road with the theme “Best Fortune. World Party.”, the festivities celebrate the energetic spirit of the horse, a symbol of strength, vitality, progress, and success in Chinese culture.
The night-long celebration showcases a spectacular line-up of themed floats sweeping in the best luck of the year. Some float sponsors will celebrate milestone anniversaries — with Cathay Group marking its 80th anniversary, Hong Kong Disneyland celebrating its 20th, and McDonald’s Hong Kong debuting a float in honour of its 50th — adding extra excitement to the Parade.
The first-ever float from the Hong Kong Brand Toy Association will energise the event by bringing beloved IP characters to the festivities.
The Ocean Park Hong Kong will invite its adorable ‘Panda Friends’ to spread new year blessings to families. At the same time, the Hong Kong Jockey Club will spotlight the zodiac year with shimmering horse installations to bring prosperity to all. Multiple dazzling floats will be on display at Kai Tak Sports Park from 18 to 26 February, extending the Parade excitement to visitors throughout the festive season.
Citywide Celebrations
Beyond the floats, a dynamic line-up of performances from around the world during the Parade will reinforce Hong Kong’s status as a truly international festival city. Not only will France’s FierS à Cheval set the tone with illuminated horse tableaux that capture the spirit of the Year of the Horse, the exhilarating performances including the precision of the Xi’an Acrobatic Troupe from the Chinese Mainland, the comic acrobat duo Les Vitaminés from Canada, and the debut of Australia’s Manly Seabirds cheer performers will bring high-energy sparkle to the parade route.
The Parade also embraces innovation while honouring tradition. Hong Kong’s East-Meets-West culture shines bright as the mesmerising Luminous Dragon Dance by the Chinese Martial Arts Dragon and Lion Dance Association of Hong Kong, China, dances along the parade route with Italy’s Cromosauro, a large-scale dinosaur skeleton adorned with vibrant, colourful fabrics.
There are many more Chinese New Year celebrations in addition to the Parade – the city pulses with festivities, giving visitors endless reasons to explore.
International Performing Groups
For a week running up to the early hours of Chinese New Year’s Eve (11 to 17 February), visitors can dive into the festive spirit at Lunar New Year Fairs, commonly known as Chinese New Year flower markets, where parks and community hubs will burst with seasonal flowers, symbolic decorations and joyful atmosphere. Be sure to visit popular fairs to experience the vibrant atmosphere, such as Victoria Park in Causeway Bay or Fa Hui Park in Mong Kok.
Visitors cannot miss the Year of the Horse Raceday on the third day of the Chinese New Year (19 February), where Sha Tin Racecourse will be filled with thrilling horse-racing, entertainment and festive excitement.
Visitors can also participate in blessings at the Hong Kong Well-Wishing Festival in Lam Tsuen from 17 February to 3 March, where they can write their wishes on a piece of joss paper, attach it to an orange, and toss it into the tree. It is believed that wishes come true if they are successfully tied to the wishing tree. Those seeking spiritual connection can visit Hong Kong’s many historic temples — including Wong Tai Sin Temple, Che Kung Temple and Kwun Yum Temples — to pray for fortune, love, prosperity and success in the Year of the Horse.
With its captivating parade spectacles, luminous celebrations and welcoming festive spirit, Hong Kong’s Chinese New Year promises joy at every moment. This Year of the Horse, travellers are invited to embrace the energy, happiness and optimism that Hong Kong radiates at this special time of year.
SINGAPORE, 13 January 2026: Global passenger traffic for November 2025 showed demand, measured in revenue passenger kilometres (RPK), increased 5.7% compared to November 2024, according to the International Air Transport Association’s latest air traffic data released this week.
Total capacity, measured in available seat kilometres (ASK), increased 5.4% year-on-year.
Photo credit: IATA. IATA Director General Willie Walsh.
The load factor was 83.7% (+0.3 ppt compared to November 2024), a record high for November.
International demand rose 7.7% compared to November 2024. Capacity was up 7.1% year-on-year, and the load factor was 84.0% (+0.4 ppt compared to November 2024).
Domestic demand increased 2.7% compared to November 2024.
Capacity was up 2.7% year-on-year. The load factor was 83.2% (unchanged compared to November 2024).
“November 2025 saw continued strong demand for air travel with year-on-year growth of 5.7%. Load factors reached a new record of 83.7% for the month as airlines continued to satisfy growing passenger demand amid continuing capacity constraints stemming from challenges in the aerospace supply chain.
“The new year’s resolution for the manufacturing sector must be to increase production to meet the needs of its airline customers. The backlog of more than 17,000 aircraft orders that we reached in 2025 must be reduced in 2026,” said IATA’s Director General Willie Walsh.
Regional Breakdown – International Passenger Markets
International RPK growth was a healthy 7.7% year over year in November. The international load factor, at 84.0%, was also a November record high. Compared to October, growth was slightly down in all regions except Africa.
Asia-Pacific airlines achieved a 9.3% year-on-year increase indemand. Capacity increased 8.7% year-on-year, and the load factor was 85.8% (+0.5 ppt compared to November 2024). Geopolitical tensions led to traffic between China and Japan slowing to single-digit growth in 2025 for the first time.
European carriers had a 6.8% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity increased 6.1% year-on-year, and the load factor was 85.6% (+0.5 ppt compared to November 2024).
North American carriers saw a 4.0% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity increased 4.2% year-on-year, and the load factor was 81.0% (-0.1 ppt compared to November 2024). Looking at total traffic, North America has seen 10 consecutive months of year-on-year decline in load factor.
Middle Eastern carriers saw a 9.6% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity increased 9.2% year-on-year, and the load factor was 81.4% (+0.3 ppt compared to November 2024).
Latin American airlines saw a 4.4% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity climbed 4.7% year-on-year. The load factor was 83.9% (-0.2 ppt compared to November 2024).
African airlines were the standout performers, with a 11.2% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity was up 8.5% year-on-year. The load factor was 74.3% (+1.8 ppt compared to November 2024).
SINGAPORE, 13 January 2026: The Tourism Australia Board has appointed Robin Mack as the organisation’s new Managing Director, bringing almost 30 years of global travel industry experience to the role.
A leader at Tourism Australia for over a decade, Mack has overseen its market strategy and operations across 16 global markets, as well as commercial, distribution development, and partnerships. He also led Business Events Australia.
Photo credit: Tourism Australia. Robin Mack.
Tourism Australia Chair, Penny Fowler AM, said, “We are delighted to appoint Mack following an extensive recruitment process. He has a proven track record in tourism and brings extensive industry perspective and experience gained across multiple fields and roles.
“During his 13 years at Tourism Australia, Robin has demonstrated his ability to drive strategies to create sustainable international demand for visiting Australia.
“This next phase of growth for tourism in Australia is critical. We are approaching a decade of significant major sporting events culminating in the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
“The importance of Asia as a key visitor market is accelerating, and Australia is playing a leading role in creating unforgettable, sustainable and First Nations tourism experiences.
Mack said he was honoured to be chosen to lead Australia’s national tourism organisation. “I am incredibly excited and proud to lead Tourism Australia. Australia’s tourism industry contributes significantly to the nation through the economic impact of visitor spend and the jobs it creates. Tourism supports regional communities, builds connections between countries, and can be a powerful driver of positive social and environmental outcomes.
SEPANG, 13 January 2026: AirAsia X (AAX) is set to resume flights connecting Malaysia to South Korea’s largest coastal city, Busan, cementing its position as the only airline in Malaysia to offer direct connectivity between the two major cities.
Set to commence operations on 17 June 2026 with a four-weekly service, this will mark the airline’s 21st destination and the second in South Korea, playing a vital role in stimulating new demand and strengthening AAX market leadership in North Asia.
Photo credit: AirAsia X.
AirAsia X CEO Benyamin Ismail said: “Building on our current route to Seoul, Busan further enhances our footprint in South Korea as we continue expanding across North Asia, which remains our strongest growth region.”
To celebrate the return to one of its most popular destinations, AAX is offering promotional fares between Kuala Lumpur and Busan from MYR299 all-in one-way* for economy or MYR999 all-in one-way* for the airline’s Premium Flatbed from now till 18 January 2026 for travel between 17 June and 30 November 2026.
Busan, South Korea’s second-largest city after Seoul, is a coastal destination renowned for its pristine beaches, scenic mountains and rich cultural heritage. From the lively streets of Jagalchi Fish Market and the colourful hillside villages to its thriving food scene and internationally acclaimed Busan International Film Festival, the city offers a diverse range of experiences for every type of traveller.
Flight Schedule between Kuala Lumpur (KUL) and Busan (PUS):
*All-in fares are quoted for one-way travel only, including passenger service charge, regulatory service charges, fuel surcharges, and other applicable fees.
