Tuesday, December 16, 2025
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MOVE taps Vietjet flights and fares

By
Newsdesk
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KUALA LUMPUR, 28 November 2025: AirAsia MOVE, a regional online travel agency (OTA) platform, has announced a new partnership with GalaxyJoy, the digital lifestyle loyalty platform of Vietnam’s leading investment group, Sovico. 

This collaboration enables MOVE to add Vietjet Air’s flight inventory to the MOVE platform, offering more competitive Vietjet Air flight options to travellers across Asean.

From left to right: Nadia Omer, Chief Executive Officer of MOVE and Hoa Lan Huong, Chief Executive Officer of GalaxyJoy. 

Through this partnership, MOVE and GalaxyJoy will work closely to provide travellers with more benefits, including attractive flight prices and promotional offers, as well as the ability to earn AirAsia points and SkyPoint for every Vietjet Air booking made through the MOVE platform. This integration further supports MOVE’s continued efforts to enhance the overall travel experience by offering relevant airline ancillaries such as seat selection and baggage options, all within a single platform.

MOVE Chief Executive Officer Nadia Omer commented: “This partnership enables us to add award-winning Vietjet Air’s flights into our platform, and we look forward to sharing Vietjet Air’s extensive route network with MOVE’s 15 million monthly active users.”

GalaxyJoy Chief Executive Officer Hoa Lan Huong shared: “As the developer and operator of Vietjet Air’s loyalty programme Vietjet SkyJoy, we are delighted to play a bridging role in connecting Vietjet’s extensive flight network with MOVE, one of the region’s leading online travel platforms. 

“This collaboration represents a significant step for GalaxyJoy in expanding its regional partnerships across ASEAN. By integrating Vietjet Air’s flight inventory into the MOVE platform, travellers across ASEAN will now enjoy easier access to Vietjet’s expanding route network, competitive fares and loyalty programme.”

(Source: MOVE)

Airbnb bookings in Thailand surge in H1 2025

By
Newsdesk
-

BANGKOK, 28 November 2025: Travel to Thailand is on the rise, according to recent data from Airbnb, with nights booked by international guests climbing almost 20% in the first half of 2025 compared to last year. 

During the same period, long-term stays rose by around 20% year-on-year, highlighting Thailand’s growing appeal not just for holidaymakers but also for digital nomads, remote workers and travellers seeking extended, immersive stays.

Photo credit: Airbnb Thailand.

This trend reflects a shift towards slower, more meaningful travel, with guests choosing to stay longer, explore new corners of the country, and experience local culture more deeply.

“Thailand’s timeless appeal lies in its balance of vibrant cities, serene beaches, rich culture, and genuine hospitality, qualities that continue to inspire travellers from around the world,” said Airbnb’s Country Head for Southeast Asia and India, Amanpreet Bajaj.

 “We’re seeing guests extend their stays and explore beyond the usual tourist trails, discovering emerging gems like Koh Chang and Nonthaburi. This growth not only reflects evolving traveller preferences but also reinforces Airbnb’s role in promoting more sustainable and dispersed tourism across Thailand.”

US and European markets power Thailand’s growth

The US was the top market for international Airbnb visitors to Thailand in H1 2025, with strong growth also recorded from European countries. 

France, Germany and the UK lead the surge, recording double-digit growth in H1 2025 when compared to the same period last year. Meanwhile, in APAC, Australia continues to drive regional momentum. The top international origin countries for Airbnb guests travelling to Thailand in H1 2025 were:

  • USA
  • UK
  • Germany
  • France
  • China
  • South Korea
  • Australia
  • Canada
  • Singapore

Lesser-known and coastal destinations on the rise

While Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket remain perennial favourites among international travellers, lesser-known coastal cities are rising in popularity. Chang Island saw the largest increase, with international bookings rising by over 70% in H1 2025. Hua Hin and Cha-am also recorded a noteworthy growth as travellers sought quieter, more local experiences.

Screen tourism sparks travel inspiration

Few things spark wanderlust quite like seeing a destination on screen. From sweeping beaches to dramatic cliffs, Thailand’s landscapes have captured the spotlight worldwide, and travellers are now chasing that same magic in real life. Bookings in Samui and Krabi by international guests grew by around 30% respectively in H1 2025, as travellers sought to experience the same backdrop they’ve seen on screen.

(Source: Airbnb Thailand)

Hong Kong Airlines codeshares with Turkish

By
Newsdesk
-

HONG KONG, 28 November 2025: Hong Kong Airlines has expanded its codeshare partnership with Turkish Airlines to strengthen its international route network further.

Building upon their existing cooperation, the two airlines have extended their codeshare arrangement to include Hong Kong Airlines’ services to Australia. 

Turkish Airlines and Hong Kong Airlines upgrade codeshare agreement.

Passengers will now enjoy enhanced connectivity via Hong Kong, with seamless access to Sydney and Melbourne — two of Australia’s major cities — for a smoother one-stop travel experience.

Under the new agreement, Hong Kong Airlines places its “HX” code on Turkish Airlines flights between Hong Kong and Istanbul. In parallel, Turkish Airlines adds its “TK” code to Hong Kong Airlines-operated flights connecting Hong Kong with Tokyo, Osaka, Bangkok, Sydney, and the upcoming Melbourne service scheduled to commence in December 2025.

Hong Kong Airlines  Executive Vice President Louis Li said: “Istanbul is one of the world’s most historic and dynamic metropolises, as well as a key gateway to Europe. Since we established our codeshare partnership with Turkish Airlines in 2018, our collaboration has become tighter, enabling Hong Kong Airlines passengers to connect conveniently through Istanbul to destinations across Europe, while Turkish Airlines travellers can easily transfer via Hong Kong to major cities across Asia, including Japan and Thailand. The codeshare partnership not only deepens our business relationship but also enhances the overall travel experience for our customers.”

Turkish Airlines CEO Bilal Ekşi stated: “We are pleased to strengthen our partnership with Hong Kong Airlines, building on Hong Kong’s role as a key gateway in Asia and offering travellers even greater convenience and choice across our networks. This collaboration further connects Türkiye with Asia and beyond, reflecting our shared commitment to seamless global travel.”

(Source: Hong Kong Airlines)

Malaysia targets Europe’s Muslim travellers

By
Newsdesk
-

JOHOR BAHRU, 28 November 2025: The Islamic Tourism Centre (ITC), in collaboration with the Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA), successfully concluded a week-long European Representative Familiarisation (FAM) Trip, tagged “A Muslim Friendly Voyage of Discovery”.

Designed to heighten Malaysia’s position as a preferred destination for the European Muslim travel market ahead of Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026), the event was held from 21 to 27 November 2025.

It brought together 10 representatives from Bosnia, France, Spain, Türkiye, and the UK, comprising muftis, influencers, and travel agents. Over seven days, the delegates embarked on a journey across Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, Putrajaya, Negeri Sembilan, Melaka, and Johor, visiting cultural, historical, natural, and religious sites that showcased Malaysia’s unique identity as a welcoming and inclusive destination for Muslim travellers.

“Muslim-friendly tourism has long been an aspiration for MATTA, and this Fam Trip represents an important step forward in realising that vision. For many years, we have seen the potential of this segment, not only for Malaysia as a welcoming and culturally diverse destination, but also for our members to serve a growing global Muslim travel market,” said MATTA President Nigel Wong.

This initiative forms part of Malaysia’s broader strategic effort to strengthen its presence in the European market, which represents the most significant global tourism expenditure at EUR979 billion in 2023 and is also home to a resident Muslim population of approximately 46 million. 

Participants were hosted at several Muslim-Friendly Tourism and Hospitality Assurance and Recognition (MFAR)-certified hotels, including Mardhiyyah Hotel & Suites (Selangor), Royale Chulan Seremban (Negeri Sembilan), and Lotus Desaru Beach Resort & Spa (Johor), allowing them to experience first-hand Malaysia’s certified Muslim-friendly accommodation and services.

Networking sessions and official dinners hosted by Tourism Selangor, Majlis Perbandaran Seremban, Tourism Melaka, and Tourism Johor provided valuable platforms for industry engagement, further enhancing Malaysia’s visibility and appeal within Europe’s growing Muslim travel segment.

“With VM2026 approaching, this is our chance to personally introduce participants to something truly special: our colourful culture and incredible heritage derived from our diverse population, delivered through the high-quality, seamless experience of our Muslim-Friendly Tourism and Hospitality (MFTH) ecosystem,” said Islamic Tourism Centre Acting Director General Nur Alyssa Coraline Yussin.

The itinerary featured notable highlights such as the Petronas Twin Towers, Kompleks Kraf, Badan Warisan Malaysia, Melaka’s historical quarter, Masjid Tuanku Mizan Zainal Abidin, Masjid Kampung Hulu, Nasyrul Quran Complex, and Masjid Sri Sendayan. Delegates also explored local culture, SMEs, and creative industries, strengthening their understanding of Malaysia’s diverse tourism offerings.

“By bringing representatives from Europe to experience Malaysia first-hand, we are opening doors to new opportunities. They witness for themselves the richness of our culture, the warmth of our people, and the strength of our Muslim-friendly ecosystem, from certified accommodation to guided experiences that reflect Malaysia’s identity. This journey is more than a FAM Trip; it is an introduction to what Malaysia truly offers as an inclusive and faith-considerate destination,” Wong added.

On that note, he added, “Most importantly, this initiative is designed for the benefit of our members. We want to ensure that MATTA members are well-positioned to tap into the European Muslim market, build meaningful connections, and showcase their expertise and offerings with confidence.”

Malaysia’s strong Muslim-friendly tourism infrastructure positions the nation as an attractive destination for European Muslims, especially as such facilities and services may not be widely available across Europe. Beyond leisure travel, opportunities also continue to grow in education, Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H), and medical tourism, supported by visa-free access for European nationals.

“Our relationship with MATTA has always been rock-solid, and this FAM Trip truly takes our public-private partnership to a new level. We know European travellers are a desired market for destinations around the world, including Malaysia. By focusing on its Muslim niche market, we’re tapping into a global market worth a staggering USD 235 billion by 2030, an enormous opportunity for local businesses,” Alyssa added.

(Source: MATTA)

The world’s 10 most visited countries

By
Andrew Wood
-

BANGKOK, 26 November 2025: International travel continued its remarkable rebound last year, with 1.45 billion cross-border arrivals recorded globally, according to the UN Tourism (UNWTO).

In preparing this review of the world’s 10 most visited countries, I have relied on the latest official 2024 international arrival figures, not older or pre-pandemic Google summaries that still circulate online. I have also highlighted how each country grew from 2023 to 2024, giving a true sense of momentum.

As someone who has worked in tourism for more than 40 years, these rankings reveal changing traveller behaviour, shifting airline routes, new visa policies, and evolving global tastes. They also tell a powerful story about how destinations are positioning themselves in an increasingly competitive world.

How tourism GDP is measured

A tourist is an international visitor who travels outside their usual environment and stays at least one night for leisure, business, or other purposes. Tourism’s contribution to GDP combines direct spending on hotels, restaurants, attractions and local transport with broader indirect and induced impacts through supply chains, investment and jobs. The percentages listed for each country reflect WTTC’s full Travel and Tourism contribution, which is the globally accepted standard.

▫️1. France

2024 arrivals: 102 million, up 2% on 2023

France remains the world’s most visited nation. Its appeal is astonishingly broad. Visitors are drawn to Paris and its iconic culture, but equally to regions such as Provence, Brittany and the Loire Valley. French gastronomy, wine tourism, and shopping continue to set the global benchmark for lifestyle travel. As I review these figures each year, France always stands out for combining mass appeal with refined, high-value tourism. Tourism share of GDP: 9%*.

▫️2. Spain

2024 arrivals: 93.8 million, up 10%

Spain’s growth last year was one of the strongest in Europe. The blend of Mediterranean beaches, Barcelona and Madrid’s cultural energy, and the islands’ exceptional climate offers year-round appeal. Food, festivals and modern tourism infrastructure keep Spain firmly in second place. Tourism share of GDP: 15 to 16%.

▫️3. USA

2024 arrivals: 72.4 million, up 9%

The US attracts visitors for its wide variety. Iconic cities, national parks, business travel, entertainment, education and major events all contribute. Orlando, New York and Las Vegas remain global hubs of demand. Domestic travel is vast and continues to reinforce the sector’s size. Tourism share of GDP: just under 10%.

▫️4. Türkiye

2024 arrivals: 60.6 million, up 10%

Türkiye has surged in popularity, driven by Istanbul’s cultural magnetism, the value-for-money coastal resorts of Antalya and Bodrum and improved connectivity. Currency dynamics made Türkiye exceptionally competitive in 2024. Tourism share of GDP: 12%*.

▫️5. Italy

2024 arrivals: 57.8 million, up 3%

Italy’s tourism strength is built on history, art, cities and food. Rome, Venice and Florence remain the core draws, but Italy’s lifestyle tourism from lakes to islands helps spread visitors more evenly. Tourism share of GDP: 10 to 11%.

▫️6. Mexico

2024 arrivals: 45 million, up 6 per cent

Mexican tourism is driven by strong US and Canadian demand, excellent air connectivity and globally recognised sun-and-sand destinations. Its cultural depth remains one of its greatest assets. Tourism share of GDP: 15%*.

▫️7. UK

2024 arrivals: 41.8 million, up 12%

The UK had one of the highest growth rates in the top ten. London continues to anchor the country’s appeal, offering free museums, theatre, royal heritage, and world-class dining. Beyond the capital, tourism is strengthened by Edinburgh, the Highlands, the Lake District, York, Bath, the Welsh national parks and Northern Ireland’s coastal landscapes.

The UK punches far above its size thanks to global soft power, Premier League football, festivals, heritage, international education and major events. This diversity of appeal is what keeps the UK consistently within the top tier. Tourism share of GDP: 10%*.

▫️8. Germany

2024 arrivals: 37.5 million, up 8%

Germany offers a powerful combination of leisure and business travel. Christmas markets, cultural cities, and scenic routes give it seasonal variety, while trade fairs and exhibitions underpin its strength in business tourism. Tourism share of GDP: 11 to 12%.

▫️9. Japan

2024 arrivals: 36.9 million, up 47%

Japan’s recovery has been exceptional. A weak yen, improved air access, and high interest from global travellers fuelled a record-breaking return. Cherry blossom, food culture, safety and efficient transport all reinforce Japan’s international brand. Tourism share of GDP: 7 to 8%.

▫️10. Greece

2024 arrivals: 36 million, up 10%

Greece continues to outpace expectations. Its islands remain world-famous, but Athens has also become a strong year-round city break destination. Cruise demand, heritage sites and seasonal diversification support its tourism resilience. Tourism’s share of GDP: 18 to 20%.

Tourist spending 

While arrival numbers show where travellers go, tourism receipts reveal how much they spend. In 2024, the leading countries for international tourism earnings included:

  • USA        
  • Spain
  • UK   
  • France
  • Italy    
  • Türkiye   
  • Japan
  • United Arab Emirates

High receipts often reflect strong long-haul demand, luxury segments, large cities, major events and strong shopping and dining economies.

Rising stars: Destinations to watch

Looking beyond the top 10, Thailand, Saudi Arabia and the UAE are strongly positioned for future rankings based on 2024 performance.

• Thailand at 35.5 million arrivals, driven by beaches, medical tourism and cultural depth.

• Saudi Arabia at 29.7 million arrivals, expanding rapidly with Vision 2030.

• UAE nearing 19 million arrivals, with Dubai consistently in the world’s top three most visited cities.

About the author
Andrew J Wood is a British-born travel writer and former hotelier who has lived in Thailand since 1991. Beginning his full-time hospitality career in the early 1980s, he brings more than four decades of experience to the industry. He has held senior roles with Thistle Hotels, Shangri-La Hotels & Resorts, Minor Hotels, The Landmark Lancaster Hotel Group, Chaophya Park & Resorts and the Royal Cliff Group. A graduate of Napier Edinburgh University and a former Director of Skål International, he is also a Past President of Skål International Bangkok, Skål Thailand and Skål Asia. Andrew writes widely for travel and hospitality publications, offering insights into tourism trends across Asia and the global visitor economy.

*: Approximate values.

Centara X Icons Series: Landmark Sports Partnership

By
Your Stories
-

BANGKOK, 27 November 2025: Centara Hotels & Resorts, Thailand’s leading hotel operator, is proud to announce that it has become the Official Hotel Partner of the Reignwood Icons of Football 2026, which will see soccer legends from around the world tee off at Robinswood Golf Club in Bangkok from 31 January to 1 February 2026.

This landmark partnership, which unites two powerhouse brands in the worlds of hospitality, sport and entertainment, was officially unveiled at “Grand Heights” – a VIP event at CRU Champagne Bar, the spectacular rooftop venue perched on the 59th floor of Centara Grand at CentralWorld. At this glittering occasion on 21 November 2025, set against the backdrop of Bangkok’s skyline, an A-list of global football icons, including Team England’s Joe Hart and Team World’s Aaron Ramsey, gathered to celebrate the launch, along with distinguished guests, media, and partners.

An a-list of global football icons, Joe Hart and Aaron Ramsey gathered to celebrate the partnership announcement.

An A-list of global football icons, Joe Hart and Aaron Ramsey, gathered to celebrate the partnership announcement.

Part of the global Icons Series, Reignwood Icons of Football 2026 is an entertainment-driven sporting format that brings the world’s greatest footballers together for a globally televised golf showdown between Team England and Team World. As the tournament’s Official Hotel Partner, Centara will now become “The Place to Be” for fans, offering exclusive access and members-only experiences. CentaraThe1 members and Icons fans will enjoy a wide range of benefits.

The partnership announcement was held at CRU Champagne Bar, the spectacular rooftop venue perched on the 59th floor of Centara Grand at CentralWorld.

Centara Hotels & Resorts CEO Thirayuth Chirathivat said: “We are delighted to partner with the Reignwood Icons of Football 2026, an innovative sports entertainment brand that brings together some of the world’s most famous footballers in a compelling cross-sport contest. Centara is committed to creating original and extraordinary experiences for our guests, making this collaboration a perfect match for our philosophy. I’m confident that our guests, including our esteemed CentaraThe1 members, will love the exciting lineup of activities we’ve got planned throughout the tournament.”

The partnership will see Centara featured prominently across the Icons Series’ digital, social, and broadcast platforms, as well as in global PR, influencer activations, and event hospitality, positioning both Centara and Reignwood Icons of Football 2026 as “The Place to Be” for local sports fans and international travellers alike.

For more information and to book your stay with Centara, please visit www.centarahotelsresorts.com.

For more information about the Icons Series, visit www.icons-series.com.

(Source: Your Stories — Centrara Hotels & Resorts)

Emirates collaborates with OpenAI

By
Your Stories
-

SINGAPORE, 27 November 2025: Emirates and OpenAI have entered into a strategic collaboration to advance AI adoption and innovation across the airline. 

The collaboration will entail enterprise-wide deployment of ChatGPT Enterprise, supported by tailored AI literacy programmes, technical exploration, and executive strategic alignment designed to embed AI capabilities across the organisation. 

Emirates Executive Vice President IT Ali Serdar Yakut said: “We see enormous potential for AI technology to support our business requirements, helping us tackle complex commercial challenges, strengthening our operations, and enhancing the customer experience. Closely working with OpenAI will make our technology investments both strategic and scalable, enabling us to deliver enhanced value to our employees and customers, fundamentally changing how we innovate, deliver value, and maintain our competitive edge in the industry.”

OpenAI Regional Director, MENA & Central Asia, Rod Solaimani said: “Emirates Group has laid out a bold vision for how AI can transform the future of aviation. With this collaboration, we’re proud to help them bring that vision to life – embedding intelligence across their operations, empowering teams with powerful new tools, and reimagining the travel experience for millions of customers.”

As part of their work together, Emirates and OpenAI will explore opportunities to introduce practical use cases, develop an internal AI champion network, and establish an AI Centre of Excellence. 

This collaboration will identify key areas for enhancing and expanding AI capabilities across the organisation, covering critical skills, processes and technology needed to power Emirates into the next era.

Emirates stands to gain early access to cutting-edge AI research and emerging breakthroughs, as well as collaboration on government-led innovation projects and accelerators. 

Additionally, Emirates and OpenAI will jointly run dedicated leadership sessions to explore practical applications, build sponsorship and advocacy for AI initiatives, and provide leaders with visibility into OpenAI’s product roadmap for long-term planning.

For more information on flights or to make a booking, visit www.emirates.com. 

(Source: Your Stories — Emirates)

Four Seasons Yachts unveils 2027 Med season

By
Newsdesk
-

SINGAPORE, 27 November 2025: Four Seasons Yachts is preparing for its second Mediterranean season in 2027, unveiling 33 voyages and more than 40 new ports of call, including the introduction of Egypt to the destination list. 

From March to November 2027, the season marks an evolution of the Mediterranean offering for Four Seasons Yachts, with no repeated itineraries from the inaugural year. Guests will venture to more than 40 new ports of call, including Portugal’s storied city of Lisbon and the refined coastal enclaves of Rimini, Zakynthos, and Santa Cruz de Tenerife, while also returning to highlights of the 2026 season, such as the Greek Islands and the historic city of Athens.

Four Seasons Yachts’ 2027 Mediterranean season features 33 new voyages and more than 40 new destinations.

Three new voyages will feature Egypt, offering rare access to many sought-after sites. This includes two distinct seven-night voyages through the Eastern Mediterranean, along with a 14-night Grand Mediterranean journey that combines both itineraries for guests seeking a deeper and more immersive exploration. Each itinerary features strategic overnights, allowing travellers to venture further into Egypt and experience the Valley of the Kings, the Pyramids of Giza and the region’s most storied shores.

Shorter voyages

For 2027, Four Seasons Yachts expands its offering of five-night voyages, allowing guests to explore the Mediterranean’s most captivating regions more deeply throughout the journey. These shorter voyages combine marina days in clear-water anchorages with intimate harbour calls accessible only to vessels of this scale. Highlights of these itineraries include the Greek Isles featuring Santorini and Hydra; the Adriatic featuring Croatia; the Rivieras featuring Sardinia and Monte Carlo; the Rivieras featuring Saint-Tropez and Portofino; and the Greek Isles featuring Antiparos and Mykonos, each presenting a distinct expression of the Mediterranean’s varied coastal landscapes.

Expanded overnight stays and yacht-only harbours

Within the new collection of journeys, 27 ports will include overnight stays, offering unhurried access to destinations that reveal their character after dusk. Several of these overnight stays will be in new ports for Four Seasons Yachts, including Egypt, Casablanca, Morocco; Cadiz, Spain; Bodrum and Marmaris, Turkey; and Porto Cervo, Sardinia.

(Source: Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts)

Active Escapes: Run, Bike, Hike in New Zealand

By
Newsdesk
-

SINGAPORE, 27 November 2025: Tourism New Zealand invites travellers to experience a renewed sense of energy, purpose and connection through the country’s extraordinary landscapes and world-class active adventures. 

With global demand for nature-led, wellness-driven travel at an all-time high, New Zealand stands out as the ultimate destination for Active Escapes – where every journey sparks discovery, and every trail leads to your best self.

Photo credit: Tourism New Zealand.

Across Aotearoa New Zealand, visitors can explore more than 1,555 walking and hiking tracks, 11 iconic Great Walks, and 23 Great Rides, weaving through wild coastlines, ancient forests, volcanic valleys, and alpine peaks. Whether joining a world-class running event, cycling through vineyards or taking a quiet morning walk, travellers can move at their own pace through landscapes rich with cultural heritage and natural wonder.

Global Trends, Local Magic

Travellers today increasingly seek destinations that offer meaningful, active and wellness-led experiences that blend challenge with restoration:

● 94% now weave wellness and activity into their journeys (Virtuoso Luxe Report 2024).

● 77% prioritise the right experience over cost, seeking “transformative, once-in-a-lifetime adventures” (Amex 2024).

● 60% plan trips around entertainment or sports – including running, cycling and walking (Amex 2025).

● 70% of Millennials & Gen Z view the journey itself – hiking, cycling, walking – as important as the destination (Travel Weekly 2025).

With its diverse trails, deep cultural stories and breathtaking scenery, New Zealand delivers the perfect combination of movement, nature and meaning.

Year-round world-class running events

New Zealand’s trails are designed for every traveller, from beginners and families to seasoned adventurers. Gentle coastal walks, lakeside loops and beginner-friendly cycling tracks offer accessible options for all ages. Moderate adventurers can enjoy half-day hikes, vineyard trails and forest paths. At the same time, experienced runners and hikers will find multi-day treks and technical trail races that offer unforgettable achievements in dramatic landscapes.

All tracks are well signposted and maintained, suitable for solo travellers, groups of friends or multi-generational families. Travellers can choose guided experiences to gain cultural and ecological insight, or embark on independent journeys at their own pace. In New Zealand, Active Escapes truly offer something for everyone – from families on a stroll to first-timers tackling their first 10km, or elite athletes chasing their next personal best.

New Zealand’s running calendar draws elite athletes, passionate beginners, and curious first-timers from around the world. The highlights include:

● Hawke’s Bay Marathon | 16 May 2026: Set in New Zealand’s renowned food and wine region, the ASICS Hawke’s Bay Marathon leads runners through vineyards, orchards, coastal paths and quiet country roads on a mostly flat, scenic course. With distances ranging from the full marathon to a kids’ dash, it offers options for all ages and abilities. The race culminates at the iconic Elephant Hill Estate & Winery, where the Finish Line Festival brings together live entertainment, local food and award-winning wines for a celebratory end to the day. Secure your spot at the Hawke’s Bay Marathon here and run through the heart of New Zealand’s food and wine country.

● Race Tekapo | 19 September 2026: Set in the heart of Lake Tekapo, this destination race offers stunning lake and mountain views, unique alpine courses and access to the famed International Dark Sky Reserve. With seven race distances, there’s something for every trail lover. Enjoy the vibrant race-day atmosphere, then unwind in local hot pools or explore the region’s snowy peaks for the perfect active escape. Discover the full Race Tekapo experience and register here today.

● First Light Marathon – Tairāwhiti Gisborne | January 2027: Be the first in the world to greet the sun at this truly one-of-a-kind coastal marathon. Held in Gisborne – the first city in the world to welcome the sunrise – the course traces Māori land, historic sites, rolling hills, celebrated chardonnay country and the stunning Pacific coastline. Deep Māori heritage and kōrero are woven throughout the experience, and runners are welcomed with warm Tairāwhiti hospitality. Stay tuned for updates on the First Light Marathon here to be part of this unforgettable sunrise experience.

These races are part of a thriving year-round calendar of active experiences, complemented by Great Walks, Great Rides, and hundreds of day hikes suitable for all fitness levels. Options range from guided tours that enrich journeys with cultural storytelling to independent adventures for travellers who prefer flexibility and self-paced exploration.

To explore the full list of New Zealand’s world-class running, walking, hiking & biking events & experiences, visit www.newzealand.com/int/campaign/active-escapes/

(Source: Tourism New Zealand)

Cebu Pacific launches A330neo flights to Bohol

By
Newsdesk
-

MANILA, 27 November 2025: Cebu Pacific has launched its A330neo flights to Bohol-Panglao International Airport, further enhancing connectivity to the island province.

The 459-seat aircraft operates daily between Manila and Bohol, allowing more Filipinos and international travellers to experience the island province’s natural attractions and wildlife.

Photo credits: Photo Bin and Panglao – Bohol Plane Spotter

To celebrate this milestone, the maiden A330neo flight was greeted with a water cannon salute upon landing at Bohol-Panglao International Airport, symbolising the beginning of a new chapter for CEB’s operations in the province.

Bohol Governor Erico “Aris” Aumentado welcomed the arrival of the A330neo in a ceremony held at the airport.

“The first A330neo flight marks a new chapter for Bohol Panglao International Airport,” said Aumentado. “This achievement strengthens our tourism, boosts our economy, and showcases what collaboration can accomplish.”

Currently, CEB operates A330neo flights to Cebu, Davao, General Santos, and Puerto Princesa, as well as several international destinations across Asia, Australia, and the United Arab Emirates.

(Source: CEB)

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