HO CHI MINH CITY, Vietnam, 7 November 2024: Mr Biker Saigon announced this week the release of its 2025 cycling tour catalogue, now available for download.
This comprehensive guide offers a wide selection of curated itineraries for tour operators, travel agents, and destination management companies (DMCs) looking to provide their clients with unforgettable cycling experiences across Vietnam and Cambodia.
Catalogue Highlights
Expanded E-Bike Options: Mr Biker Saigon is proud to offer the largest e-bike fleet in Vietnam, providing cyclists of all levels with the opportunity to explore the diverse landscapes of Vietnam and Cambodia at their own pace. From the serene Mekong Delta to the challenging hills of Central Vietnam, their state-of-the-art e-bikes cater to both seasoned cyclists and those looking for a more relaxed ride.
Authentic Local Experiences: Each itinerary is designed to immerse cyclists in Vietnam’s local culture and natural beauty. Mr Biker’s expert in-house guides share their deep knowledge of the regions, offering guests unique insights into local life and hidden gems while ensuring a smooth and enriching tour experience.
Flexible Itineraries for All Cycling Levels: The 2025 catalogue includes various tour options, ranging from leisurely day trips to challenging multi-day adventures, ensuring that there is something for every type of cyclist. These flexible itineraries are easily adaptable to meet clients’ diverse needs, whether they are beginners or experienced riders.
“We’re thrilled to collaborate with tour operators, travel agents, and DMCs to bring our 2025 cycling tours to more clients worldwide,” said Mr Biker Saigon founder and CEO Minh Thai. “We’re committed to providing high-quality, customisable tours and are excited to offer new opportunities for partners to work with us to create unforgettable experiences for cyclists of all abilities.”
Tour operators and agents are invited to download the catalogue and contact the Mr Biker team for more information about custom tours, white-label opportunities, and logistics support, including bike and e-bike rentals and support vehicles, to enhance their own offerings.
About Mr. Biker Saigon Founded by passionate cycling enthusiasts in 2016, Mr Biker Saigon is a premier cycling tour operator based in Ho Chi Minh City. It offers exceptional cycling experiences across Vietnam and Cambodia. With a focus on quality, safety, and local cultural immersion, Mr Biker Saigon provides tailored cycling tours for both leisure and adventure cyclists. It is known for its extensive fleet of traditional and e-bikes and expert in-house guides.
SINGAPORE, 7 November 2024: Taipei-Bangkok is one of the busiest airline routes in Asia, and it will get busier when EVA Air adds four more weekly flights from January to March 2025.
According to websites monitoring advance airline timetables, the airline has scheduled 28 flights weekly between Taipei Taoyuan and Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport using the 333-seat Boeing 777-300. That increases to 32 flights weekly with the addition of four flights weekly from 15 January to 29 March 2025 using an Airbus A330-300 with 309 seats.
EVA Air competes on the Bangkok route with China Airlines, which offers 28 weekly flights; THAI, 21 flights; Thai Vietjet, 21 flights; and Starlux, w14 flights. The additional four weekly Eva Air flights to Bangkok are identified in an advance timetable.
Flight schedule
Flight BR211 departs Taipei (TPE) at 0825 and arrives in Bangkok (BKK) at 1135. Flight BR212 departs Bangkok at 1250 and arrives in Taipei at 1720.
HONG KONG, 7 November 2024: Vietjet Aviation Joint Stock Company has reported robust business performance for the first nine months of 2024.
In the first nine months of 2024, Vietjet transported over 19.6 million passengers on 104,000 flights, increasing by more than 6% and 2% YoY, respectively. The airline welcomed over 2.54 million international passengers, representing a rise of 9.1% YoY.
During the same period, Vietjet reported air transport revenue and consolidated revenue of VND51.7 trillion (HKD15.8 billion) and VND52.2 trillion (HKD15.9 billion), respectively, growing by 32% and 19% YoY. Separate and consolidated after-tax profit reached VND1.13 trillion (HKD340 million) and VND1.4 trillion (HKD430 million), respectively, seeing leaps of 884% and 564% YoY.
As of 30 September 2024, Vietjet’s total assets reached nearly VND94 trillion (HKD28.8 billion), with a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.25 and a liquidity ratio of 1.4, considered safe levels in the aviation industry.
Vietjet’s fleet comprises 85 aircraft, achieving an average seat utilisation rate of 87% and a technical reliability rate of 99.7%. The airline operates 155 routes, of which 112 are international routes.
The airline has launched new direct services to China, India, Australia and Laos, among others, while boosting flight frequencies on many other routes to Hong Kong, South Korea, Japan, and more. The Hong Kong-Da Nang route has operated daily since 27 October 2024, up from four weekly flights, while the Hong Kong-Phu Quoc route has also transitioned to daily service, increasing from three flights per week. Vietjet is the first airline to fly directly from Hong Kong to Phu Quoc, opening the gateway for Hong Kong citizens to explore Vietnam’s largest island, which uniquely offers a visa exemption for stays of up to 30 days.
With a comprehensive flight network and strong passenger growth, Vietjet welcomed its 200 millionth passenger in Q3/2024, marking a significant milestone in its journey to connect Vietnam with the world and bring the world closer to Vietnam, promoting tourism, trade, and bilateral investment between Vietnam and other nations.
SINGAPORE, 7 November 2024: Ethiopia’s national flag carrier and largest Airbus operator in Africa, Ethiopian Airlines, has taken delivery of its first of four A350-1000 from Airbus in Toulouse, France.
The first to be operated by an African-based operator, the A350-1000 will enable Ethiopian Airlines to enhance its premium service on key destinations, including Washington DC, London, Paris, and Frankfurt.
Photo credit: Airbus
To date, Ethiopian Airlines operates a fleet of 21 A350 Family aircraft. In the coming years, 14 additional A350 aircraft, including 11 A350-900 and three additional A350-1000, will join the airline’s fleet.
With a total capacity of 395 seats, the A350-1000 will increase Ethiopian Airlines’ passenger capacity and provide enhanced passenger experience in the largest business class cabin in the airline’s fleet.
Ethiopian Airlines will also introduce Airbus’ new HBCplus satcom connectivity solution, offering seamless, high-speed gate-to-gate connectivity.
The A350 is considered the long-range leader in the 300- to 410-seat category and the quietest twin-aisle aircraft in the sky. Its noise footprint is reduced by 50% compared to the previous generation.
By the end of September 2024, 1,340 A350s had been ordered by 60 customers worldwide.
The A350-1000 boasts a revolutionary design with innovative aerodynamics and a carbon-fibre fuselage powered by the fuel-efficient Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines, ensuring a quieter, smoother journey for long-haul travel.
Based on the airline’s ambitious Vision 2035 plan, Ethiopian Airlines will welcome three additional A350-1000 aircraft in the upcoming months.
SINGAPORE, 6 November 2024: Pandaw is promoting its full Brahmaputra cruise, sailing from now until 15 March. The cruise spotlights an overland trip to the UNESCO World Heritage Site Kaziranga National Park.
Explore India’s far extremes from the Northeast Assam region to South-West Kerala. This combo cruise takes guests 3,000 km on two distinct small-ship river expeditions in the lesser-visited parts of the country. It allows travellers to combine Pandaw’s popular expedition along the wild Brahmaputra River with its newest itinerary sailing the backwaters of Kerala.
Wildlife sightings
Kaziranga National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its diverse wildlife, particularly the one-horned rhinoceros. Here are some of its key attractions:
One-horned Rhinoceros: Kaziranga is home to the world’s largest population of one-horned rhinoceroses. These majestic creatures roam freely in the grasslands and swamps.
Indian Elephant: The park also supports a significant population of Asian elephants, often spotted bathing in the Brahmaputra River or grazing in the grasslands.
Royal Bengal Tiger: Although less common than rhinos and elephants, tigers are also found in Kaziranga. Look for these elusive predators while on safari.
Swamp Deer: Large herds of swamp deer can be seen grazing in the open meadows.
Wild Water Buffalo: These massive herbivores are well adapted to the wetlands of Kaziranga.
Birds: The park is home to over 400 species of birds, including migratory waterfowl, eagles, and vultures.
Gangetic River Dolphin: These shy mammals can sometimes be spotted in the Brahmaputra River.
LONDON, 6 November 2024: Sarawak Tourism Board is participating in this year’s World Travel Market (WTM) in London, 5 to 7 November, led by Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts Sarawak YB Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.
Marking a year of dynamic growth and collaboration, 2024 introduces Sarawak’s new brand marketing partnerships, positioning Sarawak as a premier destination for eco-conscious and culturally immersive travel experiences.
Located on the island of Borneo, Sarawak invites visitors to explore its rich tapestry of eco-tourism, vibrant cultural heritage, and adventure tourism against one of the world’s most biodiverse landscapes.
To ensure the sustainability of tourism in Sarawak, the Sarawak Tourism Board remains dedicated to promoting responsible tourism practices that safeguard the region’s natural and cultural heritage. This commitment extends across key areas, including conservation efforts, eco-friendly practices, community engagement, and cultural preservation. The latest initiatives launched this week at WTM strongly reflect this focus, highlighting Sarawak’s drive to foster sustainable tourism development.
Showcasing Gastronomy
At WTM, Sarawak will spotlight its dedication to immersive travel experiences with a special focus on its rich culinary heritage. A key highlight is the release of the Sarawak Gastronomy Video by MasterChef Australia finalist Audra Morrice, showcasing the unique flavours and cultural significance of Sarawak’s cuisine. This initiative reinforces Sarawak’s emerging role as a premier destination for food tourism, seamlessly blending culinary exploration with eco-conscious travel.
Eco-Friendly and Responsible Tourism
Sustainability remains central to Sarawak’s tourism initiatives. Among the latest responsible travel packages, the Borneo Green Bike Tour by Smart Leisure Travels offers travellers a low-impact way to experience Sarawak’s natural beauty, promoting responsible exploration and environmental awareness.
Digital Innovation
In an era of evolving travel expectations, the Sarawak Tourism Board is enhancing visitor engagement through cutting-edge digital innovation, setting a pioneering standard as the first DMO in the Asia-Pacific region to integrate AI-driven campaigns into its marketing strategy. This forward-thinking approach, achieved in partnership with Clicktripz – one of the world’s largest travel-focused ad networks – gives Sarawak exclusive access to a global audience of 100 million travel shoppers per month. By implementing advanced digital solutions, the Board aims to create seamless, enriched travel experiences promoting sustainable practices. Leveraging AI technology, Sarawak reaches potential visitors more effectively and provides real-time information that encourages responsible travel behaviours, supporting both the environment and local communities.
Adventure and Sporting Tourism
Sarawak’s dedication to adventure tourism takes centre stage in May 2025 with the debut of the XTERRA International Adventure Triathlon Series, held in Sarawak for the first time. This renowned triathlon series strengthens Sarawak’s position as a premier sports tourism destination, aligning with its commitment to sustainable, low-impact exploration. Hosting XTERRA allows athletes and adventure enthusiasts to experience Sarawak’s unique landscapes in ways that promote both environmental stewardship and community engagement.
Empowering Sustainable Tourism through Community Engagement
Sarawak is committed to enhancing its community-based tourism offerings by expanding the availability of homestays and eco-host accommodations. These initiatives enable travellers to fully immerse themselves in local cultures while actively contributing to sustainable tourism practices. By fostering meaningful connections between visitors and local communities, Sarawak promotes environmental stewardship and supports its residents’ economic well-being.
“We are excited to showcase Sarawak’s unique blend of culture, sustainability, and innovation at WTM this year,” said YB Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts Sarawak.
“From immersive cultural experiences and eco-friendly travel initiatives to partnerships in digital innovation, Sarawak is committed to promoting responsible tourism that celebrates and preserves our rich heritage while supporting community development and conservation. We are also delighted to host the XTERRA International Adventure Triathlon Series for the first time in 2025, enhancing our reputation as a top destination for sporting events. Our new initiatives, which seamlessly blend gastronomy, sport, nature, and cultural connection, reinforce Sarawak’s standing as a vibrant, eco-conscious destination for travellers while ensuring the sustainability of our tourism industry for years to come.”
During a press conference on Tuesday, 5 November, the Sarawak Tourism Board and the Minister for Tourism, Culture, and Performing Arts Sarawak presented a first look at Sarawak’s latest tourism highlights.
On Wednesday, 6 November, Sarawak Tourism Board CEO Sharzede Datu Hj Salleh Askor joined an inspiring panel discussion in the Orange Theatre titled “Indigenous Tourism… A Legacy Reawakened in Heritage, Community, and Conservation.” The session explored how Indigenous-focused initiatives preserve and celebrate cultural heritage, drive sustainable practices, foster social change, and support economic and environmental growth.
In partnership with the WTTC, this discussion highlights the profound impact of Indigenous Tourism on the global travel landscape, demonstrating how it creates meaningful connections, honours cultural legacies, empowers local communities, and contributes to the conservation of sacred lands responsibly and inclusively.
Experience Sarawak’s rich culture
Travel buyers and influencers visited the Sarawak stand (N9-420) throughout the show to indulge in immersive cultural experiences. Highlights include the Sarawak Cultural Show, featuring traditional dances and music, a Tattoo Showcase, and a Pua Kumbu exhibition, each offering an authentic glimpse into Sarawak’s heritage and artistry. Pua Kumbu, a traditional woven textile, is highly symbolic in Sarawak’s Iban culture, embodying intricate patterns and spiritual meanings carefully crafted by skilled weavers. These displays showcase Sarawak’s rich cultural diversity and celebrate the region’s unique craftsmanship and time-honoured traditions.
Sarawak Tourism Board’s participation in WTM underscores its commitment to promoting Sarawak as a leading eco-tourism and cultural destination that combines authentic experiences with responsible tourism practices.
LONDON, 6 November 2024: Sojern, a leading digital travel marketing platform and Cloudbeds, the premier hospitality management software platform, announced a new partnership on Wednesday, the opening day of the World Travel Market in London.
This strategic partnership means that Sojern’s built-for-travel digital marketing and guest experience solutions are fully integrated with Cloudbeds’ system and deliver industry-leading accuracy and tracking capabilities. Sojern’s commission-based travel advertising helps hoteliers increase direct bookings while paying only after the guest’s stay.
Additionally, Sojern’s multi-property capable guest experience tools, tailored and adjusted to the powerful features of both platforms, deliver enhanced customer segmentation and marketing capabilities, driving loyalty and return business.
“At Sojern, we’re always looking to deepen our partner ecosystem to bring new and innovative tools to our clients worldwide,” said Sojern VP of Guest Engagement Platform Baskar Manivannan.
“We’ve built the most robust digital marketing and guest experience solutions specifically for the travel industry, so it was only natural that we would partner with Cloudbeds to give our customers access to their industry-leading property management system.”
“Cloudbeds and Sojern have joined forces to solve some of the biggest challenges facing hoteliers today,” said Sebastien Leitner, VP of Partnerships at Cloudbeds. “Together, we’re offering a seamless solution that integrates flexible, demand-driven advertising across digital, social, and direct booking channels, powered by Cloudbeds’ Booking Engine and Sojern’s end-to-end tracking for superior accuracy. Our collaboration also delivers multi-property guest experience tools tailored to both platforms, allowing hotels to refine customer segmentation and boost loyalty through personalised marketing. This partnership is designed to streamline operations and drive meaningful guest engagement at every step of the journey.”
About Sojern Founded in 2007, Sojern is headquartered in San Francisco, California, with teams in the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia Pacific.
About Cloudbeds Founded in 2012, Cloudbeds has been named a top PMS, Hotel Management System and Channel Manager (2021-2024) by Hotel Tech Report.
HONG KONG, 6 November 2024: The Three-runway System (3RS) at Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) is targeted to be commissioned on 28 November 2024.
After the Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK) acquires the aerodrome licence and the 3RS is commissioned, all three runways will operate under the 3RS.
AAHK targets to obtain the aerodrome licence in November 2024, covering the operation of the existing South Runway and North Runway, the reconfigured Centre Runway, the associated taxiways and supporting facilities.
After the new North Runway was officially commissioned in November 2022, HKIA has continued to operate with two runways, with the Centre Runway temporarily closed in tandem for reconfiguration.
The reconfiguration works include re-levelling the runway pavement to tie in with connecting taxiways, constructing new runway entry and exit taxiways, and building new wrap-around taxiways at both ends of the runway.
With the successful completion of flight checks at the Centre Runway this September, AAHK continues to advance the preparatory work for the commissioning of the 3RS, including an aircraft crash and rescue exercise on the Centre Runway undertaken on 15 October 2024.
As for 3RS passenger facilities, AAHK will start preparing with business partners to commission the expanded Terminal 2 in phases from the end of 2025 onwards. Preparatory work includes the on-site preparation for various passenger services and leasing of retail and service outlets, among other things.
The Three-runway System (3RS) at Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) is a major infrastructure project designed to expand the airport’s capacity to handle increasing air traffic demand.
Here are the expected outcomes of the 3RS
Passenger Capacity: The 3RS will significantly increase HKIA’s passenger capacity, allowing it to handle up to 120 million passengers per year by 2035.
Cargo Capacity: The airport’s cargo handling capacity will also be expanded to 10 million tonnes annually.
Improved Runway Utilisation: The additional runway will optimise runway utilisation, reducing delays and improving overall operational efficiency.
Streamlined Passenger Experience: New terminal facilities and streamlined processes will enhance the passenger experience, making travel through HKIA more convenient and comfortable.
Attracting More Airlines and Routes: The increased capacity and improved facilities will attract more airlines to operate at HKIA, offering passengers a wider range of destinations and flight options.
SINGAPORE, 6 November 2024: Atlas Ocean Voyages begins its 2024-2025 Antarctica season, featuring three vessels — each staffed with an expanded team of 17 seasoned polar expedition guides led by expert expedition leaders.
The fleet consists of the World Navigator, launched in 2021, the World Traveller, launched in 2022; and the World Voyager, launched in 2023.
Photo credit: Atlas Ocean Voyages.
Each vessel’s team comprises of specialists — including naturalists, geologists, marine biologists, and historians— who enrich the journey through engaging lectures, guided Zodiac landings, and onshore hikes.
Their insights and personal interactions foster genuine connections with guests, creating a memorable, immersive experience enhanced by the attentive shipboard staff.
“This season, we’re excited to expand the team even further with additional experts on each expedition,” said Atlas Ocean Voyages. President and CEO James Rodriguez. “Their knowledge and dedication help us deliver the immersive, top-quality experience our guests expect both on board and ashore, ensuring each polar expedition is truly exceptional.”
Atlas Ocean Voyages’ Polar Expeditions to Antarctica offer guests a seamless and enriching adventure, starting with a pre-expedition hotel night stay and private charter jet service from Buenos Aires or Punta Arenas. Each expedition includes a cultural immersion tour — Tierra del Fuego with lunch from Ushuaia or a Taste of Chile with dinner from Punta Arenas — along with the thrilling Polar Plunge, a complimentary parka, and an eco-friendly water bottle. Optional experiences like overnight camping ashore in Antarctica and kayaking excursions are also available for those seeking additional adventure. While limited space remains this season, a selection of expeditions offers a 10% bonus savings.
About Atlas Ocean Voyages Atlas Ocean Voyages is the yacht expedition brand of Mystic Invest Holding. Stylish and intimate expedition yachts featuring less than 100 suites and staterooms offering five-star comfort, from luxurious accommodations and an all-inclusive onboard experience to in-depth excursions.
Fares include a cultural immersion tour, open bars aboard the ship, craft beers, speciality coffees and smoothies, L’OCCITANE bath amenities, an in-room coffee bar, prepaid gratuities, and complimentary emergency medical evacuation insurance. For information and reservations, visit www.AtlasOceanVoyages.com.
SINGAPORE, 6 November 2024: Jazeera Airways announced on Monday strong financial results for the third quarter of 2024, achieving a net profit of KWD11.6 million and posting a 66.1% increase compared to the same period last year.
Group operating revenue also grew, reaching KWD64.6 million, reflecting a 5.7% increase.
Fueled by strong summer travel demand, passenger traffic grew to 1.4 million, representing a 1.8% increase from 3Q 2023, with load factors at 80.6%. The increased passenger numbers and passenger mix led to a 5.8% revenue increase at Jazeera Terminal 5 (T5).
Jazeera Airways’ performance for the nine months of 2024 demonstrates continued momentum, with operating revenues climbing 2.9% to KWD163.5 million. EBIT rose by 14.5% to KWD20.7 million, while passenger traffic for the nine months reached 3.7 million, a 3.9% increase, with a load factor of 78.1%.
Jazeera Airways, Chairman Marwan Boodai said: ” Our results for the third quarter of this year reflect our unwavering commitment to enhancing connectivity through Kuwait’s air hub and supporting the local economy. By expanding our network and transforming our service offerings, we are ensuring sustained growth for Jazeera Airways, contributing to the broader Kuwait aviation story, and making travel more affordable and accessible. We are excited about the future as we continue on this growth trajectory, connecting more destinations and providing valuable services that benefit our passengers and the community.”
Third Quarter 2024 – Operational Review
Jazeera Airways concluded the third quarter of 2024 with one of the busiest summers on record, achieving significant milestones in both passenger numbers and flights handled. In early July, the airline expanded its fleet to 24 aircraft with the addition of a new plane, enhancing its capacity to meet the rising travel demand. Jazeera’s On-Time Performance (OTP) also grew from 65% in 3Q 2023 to 80% in 3Q 2024.
Despite facing geopolitical challenges and a major global IT outage, Jazeera Airways maintained its focus on safety and operational excellence, successfully navigating these hurdles to deliver reliable service to its passengers.
Outlook for 2024
Starting this winter, Jazeera Airways is operating year-round flights to Larnaca and Sharm El Sheikh. The airline has also restarted flights to Ahmedabad and Thiruvananthapuram and will soon connect with Bhairahawa.
While the outlook for the rest of the year is positive, it is also contingent on the geopolitical situation in the region. By sustaining the current momentum, Jazeera Airways is set to expand further and transform the business in the coming future.
About Jazeera Airways Jazeera Airways KSC is a Kuwaiti low-cost airline with its head office at Kuwait International Airport in Al Farwaniyah Governorate, Kuwait. It operates scheduled services in the Middle East, Nepal, Pakistan, Bangladesh, India, Sri Lanka and Europe.
