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AAPA tracks growth in passenger traffic

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KUALA LUMPUR, 31 October 2025: International air passenger traffic continues to scale up according to the Preliminary September 2025 traffic figures released Thursday by the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines.

APPA data shows resilient regional economic conditions, underpinned by Asia Pacific GDP growth projected at 4.5%1 for the year, provided firm support to overall traffic demand.

Buoyed by robust business and consumer activity, the region’s airlines recorded a 7.1% year-on-year increase in the number of international passengers carried, reaching a combined total of 30.9 million in September. 

Passenger demand, as measured in revenue passenger kilometres (RPK), rose by 6.7% year-on-year, matching the expansion in available seat capacity. As a result, the international passenger load factor averaged 80.7% for the month, remaining elevated amid ongoing supply chain constraints.

Meanwhile, air cargo markets remained strong, supported by shifts in Asian cargo flows following the implementation of U.S. tariffs. International air cargo demand, measured in freight tonne kilometres (FTK), grew by 5.0% compared with the same month last year. Offered freight capacity increased by 4.4% year-on-year, leading to a marginal 0.3 percentage point increase in the average international freight load factor to 60.8%.

Commenting on the results, AAPA Director General, Subhas Menon said: “Despite heightened trade tensions and the implementation of US tariffs, Asian economies have remained resilient, aided by the front-loading of exports, ongoing regional supply-chain realignments and firm domestic demand. Against this backdrop, Asia Pacific carriers posted a solid 10% increase in international passengers to a total of 289 million for the first nine months of the year, alongside a 7% year-on-year growth in international air cargo demand.”

Menon added: “The outlook for both international air passenger and air cargo markets remains positive. Asia Pacific carriers are well-placed to respond to demand growth, while navigating multiple challenges, including supply chain constraints as well as rising operational costs.”

(Source: APPA)

STR CoStar executive wins 2025 Rising Star Award

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SINGAPORE: 31 October 2025: The International Society of Hospitality Consultants (ISHC), in partnership with the Hotel Investment Conference Asia Pacific (HICAP), awarded Karan Mahesh, Senior Sales – South & Southeast Asia, STR CoStar, with the Rising Star Award Asia Pacific.

The award recognises an emerging leader in the hospitality industry who has demonstrated exceptional professional growth, leadership, and impact in the Asia Pacific region.

Karan Mahesh, Senior Sales – South & Southeast Asia, STR CoStar.

Karan began his career in sales and marketing with ITC Hotels in Bangalore, where his talent and drive quickly led to a series of promotions from property-level roles to the corporate office. In 2019, he joined STR (a CoStar company) as an Account Manager for Central and South Asia, where he distinguished himself by building strong client relationships, expanding data coverage, and growing revenue across diverse markets, including India, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives.

Now based in Singapore, Karan leads STR’s business development efforts across South and Southeast Asia, representing CoStar at major industry conferences and investment forums. 

In recognition of his consistent excellence, Karan was named to CoStar’s prestigious President’s Club in both 2023 and 2024 — an honour reserved for top-performing sales professionals globally. His innovative mindset, adaptability, and dedication to advancing hospitality analytics have made him a standout example of the next generation of industry leadership.

ISHC launched the Rising Star Award Asia in 2014 in partnership with HICAP to recognise young, emerging leaders in the Asia hospitality community. Nomination criteria require an individual to be 35 years of age or younger, currently working and living in Asia, and working in the hospitality development and/or investment field. 

(Source: ISHC Rising Star Awards)

Discovery Princess visits Singapore

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SINGAPORE, 31 October 2025: Princess Cruises’ newest Royal-Class ship, Discovery Princess, has made her maiden call to Singapore, arriving at the Marina Bay Cruise Centre on 28 October 2025. 

The ship will sail on an inaugural five-day cruise to the Malaysian ports of Port Klang (Kuala Lumpur), Penang and Langkawi before returning to Singapore on 2 November.

Photo credit: Princess Cruises. Discovery Princess visits Singapore.

Discovery Princess was launched in March 2022 and can accommodate up to 3,660 guests. It has over 1,800 staterooms, including over 1,400 with balconies.

This will be her only voyage in Southeast Asia before the ship sails to Australia to start her first homeporting season in Sydney, from 6 December 2025 to 7 April 2026, sailing around Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific. This debut offers over 20 itineraries and also celebrates Princess Cruises’ 50th anniversary of operating cruises from Australia.

Plaque-exchange ceremony

To celebrate the maiden call in Singapore, plaques were exchanged between Captain Tony Ruggero and representatives from Marina Bay Cruise Centre, Singapore Tourism Board and Wallem Shipping. Over 50 travel advisors in Singapore were also invited to tour the ship’s facilities and hosted to lunch onboard. 

Whilst the ship is at Port Klang and Penang, another 50 travel advisors will be hosted on board for a familiarisation visit.  Plaque-exchange ceremonies will also be held between Captain Ruggero and the local port and tourism authorities.

Discovery Princess has more than 20 restaurants and bars, including three main dining rooms, several casual dining options, a 24-hour café, pizzerias, an ice cream bar, and the World Fresh Marketplace buffet, as well as several speciality restaurants.

Diamond and Crown Princess visit Singapore

Meanwhile, Diamond Princess will return to Singapore on 6 December 2025 to commence her homeporting season, sailing around Southeast Asia until February 2026. Diamond Princess will visit destinations in Vietnam, including Ho Chi Minh City, Nha Trang, Halong Bay, and Da Nang. Malaysian ports such as Langkawi, Penang, and Kuala Lumpur will also be visited, along with Phuket. Ko Samui and Bangkok. One sailing will also include Cambodia, where guests can visit Angkor Wat.

Crown Princess will also be making her maiden call to Singapore towards the end of November 2025.

(Source: Princess Cruises)

Football fans head for the FIFA Arab Cup

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DOHA Qatar, 31 October 2025: Qatar Airways Holidays, the airline’s leisure division, has announced the launch of its exclusive travel packages for the FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025, giving football fans from around the world the opportunity to experience the excitement of one of the region’s most anticipated tournaments.

Following Qatar’s hosting of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 and the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023, the FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025 marks another milestone in the country’s journey as the home of world-class football. The tournament will take place from 1 to 18 December 2025, bringing together 16 national teams from across the Arab world.

Photo credit: Qatar Airways.

Qatar Airways Holidays offers fans return international flights with Qatar Airways, premium accommodation at four and five-star hotels, and Category 1 or Category 2 match tickets for selected fixtures. 

Privilege Club members can collect Avios and Qpoints on flights and packages, and can save by booking with Cash + Avios.

The FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025 tournament will showcase the region’s best talent, celebrating football, national pride, and the enduring legacy of the beautiful game in the Middle East and North Africa. The launch of the FIFA Arab Cup 2025™ travel packages underscores Qatar Airways’ commitment to promoting Qatar as a top-tier global destination for sports and tourism. By combining world-class aviation with unforgettable fan experiences, the airline continues to position itself at the heart of major sporting events that unite people and cultures.

Organised by FIFA and hosted by Qatar, the first edition of the tournament took place in 2021, with its second edition — the FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025 — set to feature 16 teams from across the Arab world competing in stadiums that made history during the FIFA World Cup 2022. 

(Source: Qatar Airways)

Marina Bay cruise terminal completes upgrade

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SINGAPORE, 31 October 2025: Marina Bay Cruise Centre Singapore (MBCCS), managed by SATS-Creuers Cruise Services (SCCS)R, has completed a SGD40 million upgrade to enhance passenger experience and accommodate the growing cruise travel demand in Asia.

MBCCS has reorganised its passenger flows to manage simultaneous dual mega-ship calls at its existing two berths. A new dedicated check-in hall on Level 1, offering 70 counters and over 500 seats, will serve Pier 2. The existing facility at the Level 2 check-in hall will serve Pier 1, ensuring a smoother start to passengers’ journeys. Both check-in halls have VIP lounges.

Marina Bay Cruise Centre Singapore (MBCCS).

The upgraded facilities extend beyond check-in. The new Ground Transport Area (GTA) improves accessibility and convenience for all passengers, featuring widened roadways leading to MBCCS, increased coach bays, and early baggage drop-off, allowing bags to go directly to the ship. This will help reduce wait times at the terminal. 

In addition, ride-hailing lots have more than doubled to meet growing passenger demand, while a looped shuttle service on select cruise days links Marina South Pier MRT station to the terminal, making travel to and from MBCCS easier.

The terminal has partnered with preferred third-party providers to offer baggage transfer services to all Singapore hotels and Changi Airport, as well as shuttle services to popular attractions such as Gardens by the Bay and Chinatown on select cruise days. 

MBCCS has also reintroduced the Cruise-Fly Service for international passengers disembarking in Singapore, allowing them to check in and tag their baggage for same-day connecting flights. This enables travellers to explore the city baggage-free before continuing their onward journey.

(Source: MBCCS)

MT700 ITF Fitz Club Masters Championship returns

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Your Stories
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PATTAYA, 30 October 2025: The excitement is back for the 8th consecutive year as Fitz Club – Racquets, Health and Fitness proudly hosts the MT700 ITF Masters Championship from 15 to 21 November 2025. 

This prestigious event invites passionate tennis players aged 35 and above — from rising talents to seasoned professionals — to showcase their skills, compete for ITF world ranking points, and connect with the international tennis community in a vibrant, friendly atmosphere.

Sponsored by Supersports, K-Swiss, Carabao, and Vitala, this seven-day tournament offers a remarkable combination of competitive tennis, camaraderie, and relaxation. Both participants and spectators can look forward to first-class facilities, exquisite cuisine prepared by award-winning chefs, happy hour drink promotions, and a soothing post-match experience featuring rejuvenating massages by professional physiotherapists. Off the court, players and their families can enjoy a variety of social gatherings, including a Welcome Pool Party with live music, lucky draws, and an excellent opportunity to connect with fellow tennis enthusiasts and celebrate the true spirit of the sport in style.

Spectators are also encouraged to join and witness thrilling matches featuring top-tier players from around the world, set against the stunning backdrop of Pattaya’s leading luxury resort. It’s a week of excitement, energy, and elegance not to be missed.

Registration is now open until 5 November 2025. To secure a place, check the details on  www.royalcliff.com/itf2025 . Special room rates are available for all participants, families, and friends. 

For accommodation or inquiries, contact 038 250 421 ext. 2820–24, email [email protected], or reach us via LINE ID: @Royalcliff.

Fitz Club, the elite sports centre under the Royal Cliff banner, continues to cement its reputation as a premier destination for professional and recreational athletes. Renowned past ATP players such as Nikolay Davydenko, 

Mikhail Youzhny, Dmitry Tursunov, Paradorn Srichaphan, Danai Udomchoke and Denis Istomin have trained at this facility, using its courts designed to mirror the conditions of the Australian Open. Fitz Club’s rich history includes hosting a variety of sporting events, from Junior and Senior Tennis tournaments to Squash championships and Table Tennis competitions, further establishing its legacy in the world of sports. Fitz Club is excited to present new sports facilities, including pickleball, futsal, basketball and badminton.

For more information on the Royal Cliff Hotels Group and Fitz Club, visit www.royalcliff.com and www.facebook.com/fitzclub. 

(Source: Your Stories — Royal Cliff Hotel Group).

Hotel bookings soar for Oasis concerts

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Newsdesk
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SINGAPORE, 30 October 2025: Upcoming dates of the Oasis Live ’25 tour are driving booking hotel levels across host markets in Australia and South America, according to Forward STAR data from CoStar, a global provider of analytics in property markets.

Between 31 October and 8 November, Oasis is set to perform three nights in Melbourne and two in Sydney. As of 20 October, Sydney reported the highest occupancy on the books for those shows, reaching 75.1% for Friday, 7 November. 

Last year, the market was at 65.4% for the comparable night. Melbourne’s highest occupancy on the books (74.0%) is on the night of the second concert–Saturday, 1 November.

Starting 15 November, the band will move to South America for the final leg of its tour, and the highest forward booking levels are in Buenos Aires at 74.3% (Saturday, 15 November). The final two performances will take place in São Paulo, where booking levels are peaking at 52.0% (Saturday, 22 November) — a +32.7% increase from the comparable night last year.

 For more information, visit CoStarGroup.com.

(Source: CoStar)

Marriott’s Luxury Collection checks in at Bugis

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Newsdesk
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SINGAPORE, 30 October 2025: Marriott International announced on Wednesday the signing of an agreement with Frasers Hospitality to bring The Luxury Collection to Singapore’s city centre. 

The property, currently operating as InterContinental Singapore, will undergo a conversion and is expected to join The Luxury Collection portfolio in January 2026. 

Frasers Hospitality’s InterContinental Singapore switches badges to The Luxury Collection.

Poised to become the second Luxury Collection property in Singapore, and the first in the city centre, the hotel is set to invite guests to discover a uniquely local expression of luxury steeped in the city’s storied heritage and modern vibrancy.

Located in Singapore’s vibrant Bras Basah–Bugis arts and cultural district, the hotel is situated in the landmark Bugis Junction mixed-use development. Surrounded by a rich tapestry of heritage enclaves such as Kampong Glam and Arab Street, and connected directly to Bugis MRT Station, it offers guests seamless access to Singapore’s historic charm and modern energy.

“We are pleased to collaborate with Frasers Hospitality to bring The Luxury Collection to the heart of Singapore, a gateway city that continues to inspire global travellers with its blend of tradition and modernity,” said Marriott International Regional Vice President, Luxury, Asia Pacific excluding China, Oriol Montal.  “This signing underscores our confidence in Singapore and our commitment to growing our luxury footprint in this world-class city.”

Expected to open as The Luxury Collection in January 2026, the hotel will feature 406 guestrooms and suites, starting from 38 sqm. Planned facilities include a fitness centre, an outdoor swimming pool, and six dining and social venues, including an all-day dining restaurant, lobby lounge, and a pool bar. The property is also slated to offer approximately 1,000 sqm of flexible event space, including a 540-sqm ballroom.

The signing underscores Marriott’s strategic expansion in Singapore, complementing its portfolio of celebrated luxury brands, including The Ritz-Carlton, St Regis Hotels & Resorts, JW Marriott, W Hotels, and the Edition.

(Source: Marriott International).

Top honeymoon destinations for Indian travellers

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Newsdesk
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SINGAPORE, 30 October 2025: Digital travel platform Agoda’s latest data on the most-searched honeymoon destinations reveals that Indian newlyweds are chasing sunsets, islands, and immersive experiences. 

Goa continues to reign as the top domestic choice, while Dubai leads internationally. The surprise of the year: Vietnam’s Phu Quoc Island has seen an eightfold increase in popularity, entering the top ten rank for the first time.

India’s wedding season is just around the corner, as the monsoon season draws to a close and the cooler, more pleasant weather of winter approaches from November to January. 

In the coming months, wedding-related travel is set to rise, with couples, families, and guests preparing to celebrate together in destinations near and far. Honeymoons, in particular, can be a significant demand driver as couples book their first trip together, and this year’s trends highlight both enduring favourites and discoveries.

Domestically, Goa has held strong as India’s most-loved honeymoon spot for the second year running, thanks to its sun-soaked beaches, boutique resorts, and vibrant culinary scene. 

Meanwhile, Udaipur, the “City of Lakes,” climbed to second place in 2025, appealing to couples with its royal charm and serene lakeside views. Mumbai ranks third, while Jaipur and the Andaman & Nicobar Islands complete the top five. The Andamans are emerging as an increasingly sought-after island escape closer to home, making its debut in the top five ranks for honeymooners this year.

Internationally, Dubai remains the top choice, drawing couples with its luxury, desert adventures, and glamorous cityscape. 

Phuket and Bangkok follow close behind, while Bali and Pattaya continue their tropical pull. But it’s Phu Quoc Island that’s stealing the spotlight this year, climbing from outside the top 10 in 2024 to sixth place in 2025, with nearly 700% growth in search interest, highlighting Indian travellers’ appetite for fresh and affordable Southeast Asian escapes.

Commenting on the data, Agoda Country Director Indian Subcontinent & Indian Ocean Islands, Gaurav Malik said: “Honeymoons are among the most meaningful trips couples take, and Indian travellers are showing a growing preference for destinations that offer both romance and discovery.

“From classic getaway destinations like Goa and Bali to rising stars like Phu Quoc, beach and island getaways are winning hearts and setting the stage for a lifetime of happiness for newlyweds. Agoda’s wide range of stays and activities helps couples create trips as unique as their journey together.”

Find the best deals on Agoda’s mobile app or visit Agoda.com.

(Source: Agoda)

Tourism Malaysia welcomes Quanzhou air link

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KUALA LUMPUR, 30 October 2025: Tourism Malaysia welcomed Xiamen Airlines on the successful launch of its inaugural direct flight connecting Quanzhou and Kuala Lumpur on Wednesday.

Flight MF8661 landed at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) Terminal 1 at approximately 1445 (local time), marking the launch of direct air services from Quanzhou, a city renowned as the starting point of the ancient Maritime Silk Road. 

Photo credit: Tourism Malaysia. Xiamen Airlines’ inaugural flight arrives at KLIA.

Operating four times a week with a Boeing 738 aircraft, the route connects Quanzhou Jinjiang International Airport (JJN) to KLIA (KUL) Terminal 1. The aircraft has a seating capacity for 169 passengers — eight in business class and 161 in economy class. 

The new route reflects a significant step forward in enhancing air connectivity between Malaysia and southern China, fostering deeper bilateral cooperation and driving growth in tourism, trade, and cultural exchange.

Tourism Malaysia Deputy Director General (Promotion II) Samuel Lee emphasised: “This launch is prominent in enhancing the growing tourism relations between Malaysia and China. Beyond improving travel accessibility for visitors from Quanzhou and the surrounding regions, it underscores our commitment to promoting Malaysia as a premier travel destination in Southeast Asia. We look forward to welcoming more travellers from Quanzhou to explore Malaysia’s vibrant cultural heritage, stunning natural attractions, and diverse tourism offerings that make our nation truly exceptional.”

From January to August 2025, Malaysia recorded 3.3 million visitor arrivals from China, a 27.5% increase over the same period in 2024. Such growth highlights Malaysia’s growing appeal to Chinese travellers, especially its vibrant urban destinations, diverse culinary offerings, tranquil islands, and culturally rich heritage towns. With the new direct flight by Xiamen Airlines, Malaysia will continue to deliver a seamless and convenient travel experience for visitors from China.

Tourism Malaysia remains committed to strengthening collaboration with international airlines, airport authorities, and industry partners to enhance the nation’s global air connectivity and expand its tourism footprint. 

(Source: Tourism Malaysia)

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