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Air Caledonia flies to Vanuata

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SINGAPORE, 7 October 2025: Air Calédonie, in cooperation with Aircalin, opened a new regional route on 3 October to the capital of Vanuatu, Port-Vila, departing from La Tontouta International Airport, located 50 km from New Caledonia’s capital Noumea.

Vanuatu is an island nation in the South Pacific Ocean, located to the northeast of Australia, west of Fiji and 580 km from Noumea with a flight time of around one hour and 30 minutes.

The new flight using a 70-seat ATR72-600 departs twice weekly on Mondays and Thursdays. It is part of the broader cooperation initiated between the two airlines in March 2023 with a domestic code-share agreement and ticket sales in international markets. 

Air Calédonie CEO Daniel Houmbouy commented: “We have been working on this new international route for several months. It’s a major step for the airline to demonstrate our commitment to ensuring strong connections not only within the New Caledonia islands but also

within the Pacific region. In these challenging times, this route represents a vital opportunity to maintain jobs and sustain the level of activity necessary for the airline’s durability.”

Air Calédonie flights to Port-Vila will be operated under a code-share with Aircalin. Customers will be able to purchase a ticket either from Aircalin or Air Calédonie.

Flight schedule

Sarawak reinforces promotions at Tourism Expo Japan

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Your Stories
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KUCHING, 7 October 2025: Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) reinforced its presence in Japan with a successful two-pronged initiative spanning five days across two major cities. 

After participating in the Tourism Expo Japan (TEJ) 2025 in Nagoya, Sarawak presented a Product Update Session in Tokyo to underscore Japan’s importance as a key market for Sarawak’s tourism offerings.

Mr. Jun Tanaka, Japanese Content Creator of the Sarawak Tourism Board, leading the Sarawak sharing session at the Malaysia Pavilion during Tourism Expo Japan 2025. The B2C session introduced Sarawak to Japanese audiences present at the Pavilion.

At TEJ 2025, Sarawak was showcased under the Malaysia Pavilion at Aichi Sky Expo, where the delegation connected with both industry players and Japanese consumers. The Sarawak counter served as a hub for product discovery and destination awareness, while Japanese content creator Jun Tanaka brought Sarawak’s stories to life through engaging promotional activities.

The presentation address by Catherine Huong, Marketing Manager for North Asia and New Market (delivered on behalf of Chief Executive Officer Puan Sharzede Datu Haji Salleh Askor) acknowledged Tourism Malaysia Tokyo’s support. It reiterated Sarawak’s long-term commitment to the Japanese market.

Second from left: Mr. Mohd Fahmi Nordin, Deputy Director of Tourism Malaysia in Tokyo, and front row first from right: Ms. Catherine Huong, Marketing Manager (North Asia) of the Sarawak Tourism Board, at the Sarawak Product Sharing Session (post-TEJ) held at Hotel Groove Tokyo. The session, attended by 13 major travel agents, airlines, and representatives from Tourism Malaysia Tokyo, featured a Japanese content creator from the Sarawak Tourism Board delivering a presentation on Sarawak and its CANFF pillars, followed by a Q&A.

The momentum continued in Tokyo, where STB convened top travel agents for a half-day Product Update Session organised in collaboration with Tourism Malaysia Tokyo. The session highlighted Sarawak’s newest tourism products and travel packages, complemented by interactive exchanges designed to strengthen opportunities for future collaborations.

These initiatives were built on earlier promotional momentum, including the Serumpun Sarawak cultural showcase at Expo 2025 in Osaka, which featured Indigenous storytelling, culinary innovation, and creative arts. Together, these efforts reinforced Sarawak’s positioning as a culturally rich, nature-inspired destination while enhancing its competitive edge in a key international market.

By combining consumer engagement in Nagoya with targeted trade outreach in Tokyo, STB effectively positioned Sarawak as a must-visit destination in Southeast Asia, while reinforcing its commitment to long-term partnerships with Japanese stakeholders.

For more information on Sarawak, visit: Sarawak Tourism Board. 

(Source: Your Stories — Sarawak Tourism Board)

Vietnam flies flag at IGTM Cannes

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Newsdesk
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DANANG, Vietnam, 7 October 2025: Central Vietnam’s leading golf destination is heading for the French Riviera to join the International Golf Travel Mart (IGTM) Cannes, 21 to 23 October.

Ba Na Hills Golf Club will fly the flag for Danang and the wider Vietnam Golf Coast when it joins the world’s elite at the International Golf Travel Market (IGTM) in Cannes.

The course at Ba Na Hills Golf Club, Danang.

Before departing for France, Ba Na Hills Golf Club hosted the IMG Trophy Tournament last month, welcoming more than 130 golfers from Vietnam and overseas. The surge in activity underlines the region’s growing reputation as one of Southeast Asia’s premier golf hubs, where championship-calibre courses meet stunning landscapes and world-class hospitality.

As part of the prestigious IGTM stand in Cannes, Ba Na Hills Golf Club will showcase its award-winning course to a global audience of destination, resort, club, and tour operators. Designed by Ryder Cup Team Europe captain Luke Donald, the course has become one of Asia’s most talked-about layouts thanks to its creative routing, dramatic mountain setting, and Vietnam’s only fully floodlit fairways.

“Taking Ba Na Hills Golf Club to IGTM is an incredible opportunity to tell our story to a global audience,” said Ba Na Hills Golf Club General Manager Simon Mees. “This is more than just about our course — it’s also about putting Central Vietnam on the map as one of the world’s most compelling golf and travel destinations.”

The three-day IGTM is the premier global event for golf tourism, renowned for its structured pre-scheduled meetings with more than 40 targeted buyers and decision-makers. For Ba Na Hills, the event provides a unique opportunity to secure partnerships, expand distribution channels, and elevate brand recognition in key international markets.

That broader story is compelling. Danang has emerged as a premier tourism hotspot, celebrated not only for its golf but also for its world-class beaches, Michelin-approved dining, and an impressive portfolio of luxury hotels and resorts. Properties such as the InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort and Novotel Danang, along with a burgeoning dining scene recognised by the Michelin Guide, underscore the region’s growing allure for sophisticated international travellers.

By participating in IGTM Cannes, Ba Na Hills Golf Club aims to strengthen existing partnerships, build new distribution channels, and reinforce Central Vietnam’s reputation as a premier destination for discerning golf travellers worldwide.

Tourism Malaysia scales up promotions

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Newsdesk
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PUTRAJAYA, 7 October 2025: Tourism Malaysia hosted the Global Tourism Meet 2025, an international tourism business event set to become a pivotal annual gathering. 

The event brought together 600 international buyers and 100 media representatives from around the world to meet 400 Malaysian sellers, including hoteliers, travel agents, airlines, and a diverse range of tourism products.

Photo credit: Tourism Malaysia. Malaysia’s Deputy Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, YB Datuk Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan, opened the event.

Hosted 1 to 3 October 2025 at the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur, the three-day programme strengthened Malaysia’s position as a preferred travel destination while paving the way for Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026), where the nation targets 47 million international visitor arrivals.

Throughout the event, delegates will have the opportunity to attend business-to-business (B2B) sessions, high-impact networking events, strategic business matching activities, and familiarisation trips (FAM Trips). These experiences are well-crafted to provide greater exposure to Malaysia’s rich and diverse offerings, encompassing captivating cultural experiences, breathtaking eco-tourism adventures, exquisite gastronomy, and thrilling adventure travel. 

Malaysia’s Deputy Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, YB Datuk Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan, underscored the event’s significance: “Global Travel Meet 2025 is more than just an event; It is a platform where ideas are transformed into action. This event stands as a vital catalyst in igniting renewed energy and driving strong momentum into the year ahead through the collective efforts of government, industry players, and partners in realising our ambitious goals for VM2026.”

With the strong support of Malaysian-based carriers such as Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia, and Batik Air, Global Travel Meet 2025 was organised through close collaboration with key tourism associations, including the Malaysia Inbound Chinese Association (MICA) and the Malaysian Indian Tour & Travel Association (MITTA), alongside other vital corporate partners.

In 2024, Malaysia welcomed 38 million international visitor arrivals — a 31.1% increase compared to 2023, and an 8.3% rise over pre-pandemic 2019 levels. Our top visitor-generating markets included Singapore, Indonesia, China, Thailand, Brunei, India, the Philippines, South Korea, Australia, and Chinese Taipei. 

This encouraging momentum has continued into 2025. From January to July alone, Malaysia received 24.5 million international visitors, marking a substantial 16.8% increase over the same period last year.

(Source: Tourism Malaysia)

Agoda’s pick for retail therapy

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Newsdesk
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SINGAPORE, 7 October 2025: Digital travel platform Agoda has released a hand-picked list of must-visit shopping malls in Asia for travellers to explore. 

These destinations redefine the modern travel experience, boasting striking architecture and a dazzling array of options – from diverse eateries and world-class entertainment to global and local retail brands. Catering to all ages, interests, and budgets, they offer the perfect all-weather escape, ensuring a fantastic experience come rain or shine.

Here are Agoda’s six picks for unbeatable shopping experiences in Asia:

Vincom Centre, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Vincom Centre is a premier shopping destination featuring a wide range of international and local brands. Its modern architecture and central location make it a popular spot for both shopping and leisure activities.

Ginza Wako Department Store, Tokyo, Japan

Ginza Wako Department Store is renowned for its luxury retail offerings and iconic clock tower. Visitors can explore high-end fashion, beauty products, and exquisite jewellery. The store’s elegant architecture and prime location make it a standout destination for both shopping and sightseeing.

Emsphere, Bangkok, Thailand

Emsphere is a modern shopping complex that features a blend of international and local brands, along with a variety of dining options. Known for its contemporary design and vibrant atmosphere, it also hosts cultural events and exhibitions, making it a dynamic destination for travellers.

Hyundai Seoul, Seoul, South Korea

Hyundai Seoul is a cutting-edge shopping destination renowned for its futuristic design and unique green spaces, which incorporate a touch of the natural world, featuring a 12-meter waterfall. It offers a diverse range of shops, from luxury brands to trendy local designers, and features unique attractions such as indoor gardens and art installations.

Taipei 101 Mall, Taipei, Taiwan

Located within the iconic Taipei 101 skyscraper, this mall is a haven for luxury shopping enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the city while exploring high-end fashion, electronics, and gourmet dining options.

Grand Indonesia Mall, Jakarta, Indonesia

As one of the largest malls in Southeast Asia, Grand Indonesia Mall offers a diverse mix of global brands, local boutiques, and a wide range of dining options. Its impressive size and unique attractions, such as a musical fountain show, provide a complete entertainment experience for visitors.

Agoda, Regional Director, North Asia, Jay Lee shared: “Shopping in Asia is not just about buying things; it’s an adventure that combines culture, innovation, and entertainment. From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the iconic skyline of Taipei, these shopping destinations are cultural landmarks offering something for everyone. At Agoda, we love helping travellers discover these vibrant retail destinations, where every mall is a world of its own.”

(Source: Agoda)

Seaplane Asia completes Lake Toba trials

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Newsdesk
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LAKE TOBA, North Sumatra, 7 October 2025: Seaplane Asia Group, a regional pioneer of commercial amphibious air services, has reached a crucial milestone in its journey with the successful completion of its first seaplane demonstrations, including flight and water landings, in Indonesia.

The achievement was led by Santai Seaplane Indonesia, a member of the Seaplane Asia Group alongside Siam Seaplane (Thailand) and Samra Seaplane (Cambodia), in collaboration with Marianna Resort at Samosir Island, Lake Toba. 

Santai Seaplane completes its first amphibious seaplane demonstration flight — water landing and take-off at Lake Toba, North Sumatra, in collaboration with Marianna Resort.

This inaugural flight underscores the group’s mission to deliver safe, seamless, and sustainable water-based aviation across Asia’s most iconic destinations.

The demonstration flight serves as a key requirement for establishing official water landing sites, with commercial seaplane operations expected to begin by 2026.

“The success of this inaugural flight reflects our vision to establish Seaplane Asia as the leading network for last-mile air mobility and amphibious seaplane services across the region. We are proud to bring world-class standards to Asia’s skies, runways and waterways, connecting travellers directly to destinations once considered remote,” said Seaplane Asia CEO Dennis Keller. “This milestone is more than just a successful landing. It reaffirms our commitment to pioneering new frontiers in premium air mobility across Asia.”

The Governor of North Sumatra, Bpk Bobby Nasution and Vandiko Timotius Gultom, Regent (Bupati) of Samosir, joined the inaugural flight that departed from Silangit Airport and landed at Marianna Resort’s dock on Lake Toba. The demonstration flight showcased the potential of amphibious aviation as a safe and efficient means of transportation. Several additional demonstration flights also took place on routes to and from Medan’s Kuala Namu Airport.

“This is one of the innovative transportation modes that can serve Lake Toba and Samosir Island. With premium accommodations now serving as landing points for amphibious aircraft, we are opening new opportunities for tourism and economic growth across North Sumatra,” said the Governor of North Sumatra. “The provincial and regency governments will continue collaborating with the Ministry of Transportation to ensure the necessary regulatory frameworks and approvals are in place.”

Bpk Vandiko Timotius Gultom, Regent (Bupati) of Samosir (left), and Bpk. Bobby Nasution (right), Governor of North Sumatra, following the successful demonstration flight at Lake Toba.

Santai Seaplane aims to open new opportunities for travellers and communities across the archipelago through fast connections: Medan (30 minutes), Silangit (15 minutes), scenic flights with sightseeing journeys across Lake Toba, and additional potential future routes such as to Nias Island and nearby islands.

“I am excited to lead Santai Seaplane in forging seamless, elegant, and innovative connections that bring hidden gems closer to travellers across this archipelago,” said Santai Seaplane CEO Wirmandi Sugriat.

Santai Seaplane is a member of Seaplane Asia, with similar innovations being developed by its sister companies in Thailand and Cambodia.

Qatar extends codeshares to the Americas

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Newsdesk
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SINGAPORE, 7 October 2025: Qatar Airways is now providing access to 18 additional routes in the US through expanded codeshares with its International Airlines Group (IAG) partners, Aer Lingus and LEVEL. 

With the latest enhancements, Qatar Airways has strengthened its partnership with IAG and its carriers to expand global connectivity between the Americas, Europe, and the Middle East.

Photo credit: Qatar Airways.

Following the successful codeshare launch with Aer Lingus in 2024, Qatar Airways has grown its partnership with Aer Lingus to share code on the Irish carrier’s flights from Dublin Airport (DUB) to 11 US cities, including Boston, Bradley International in Connecticut, Cleveland, Indianapolis, Minneapolis, Nashville, Newark, Orlando, Philadelphia, and soon to Las Vegas.

Additionally, Qatar Airways has re-introduced its codeshare agreement with LEVEL, the leading long-haul operator at Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN), to share code on LEVEL flights to Boston, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, San Francisco, Buenos Aires, and soon to Santiago. LEVEL is the International Airlines Group (IAG) long-haul airline based in Barcelona (Spain).

Qatar Airways’ latest partnership enhancements are part of its codeshare portfolio with all IAG carriers, including British Airways, Iberia, LEVEL, and Vueling, solidifying its position in the European market.

Qatar Airways Privilege Club members can collect Avios credits on these codeshare flights with Aer Lingus and LEVEL. Members can use their Avios on travel and lifestyle rewards of their choice, including bidding on money-can’t-buy experiences with Privilege Club Collection.

(Source: Qatar Airways)

Air India Express flies Indore – Goa route

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Newsdesk
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DELHI, 7 October 2025: Air India Express will introduce daily flights between Indore and Goa (Dabolim International Airport), starting from 26 October. 

Bookings are now open on the airline’s website, its mobile app, and primary booking channels.

Photo credit: Air India Express.

Goa remains a sought-after destination for its culture, beaches, cuisine, and heritage, making it a year-round favourite for tourists. The addition of this new service builds on the airline’s existing flights between Indore and North Goa, offering travellers more choice and flexibility when planning their trips to one of India’s most popular tourist destinations. In addition to booking flights, travellers can also take advantage of the Air India Express ‘Xpress Holidays’ platform, offering curated holiday packages, including accommodation, transport, and activities.

From Indore: Air India Express operates more than 45 weekly flights, connecting directly to 36 domestic destinations, including Bengaluru, Delhi, Hyderabad, North Goa, and Pune, as well as internationally to Sharjah. Additionally, the airline provides one-stop connectivity to 25 domestic destinations: Ayodhya, Bagdogra, Bhubaneswar, Chandigarh, Chennai, Goa, Guwahati, Hindon, Jaipur, Jammu, Kochi, Kolkata, Kozhikode, Lucknow, Mangaluru, Mumbai, Patna, Ranchi, Srinagar, Surat, Thiruvananthapuram, Tiruchirappalli, Varanasi, Vijayawada, and Visakhapatnam and seven international destinations including Bahrain, Dammam, Jeddah, Kathmandu, Kuwait, Muscat, and Phuket.      

From Goa: Air India Express operates 40 weekly flights, connecting directly to six domestic destinations: Bengaluru, Delhi, Hyderabad, Kolkata, and Mumbai, as well as internationally to Dubai. 

Additionally, the airline provides one-stop connectivity to 27 domestic destinations: Agartala, Ahmedabad, Ayodhya, Bagdogra, Bhubaneswar, Chennai, Guwahati, Gwalior, Indore, Jaipur, Jammu, Kannur, Kochi, Kozhikode, Lucknow, Mangaluru, Patna, Sri Vijaya Puram (Port Blair), Pune, Ranchi, Srinagar, Surat, Thiruvananthapuram, Tiruchirappalli, Varanasi, Vijayawada, and Visakhapatnam and five international destinations including Abu Dhabi, Bahrain, Bangkok, Kathmandu, and Muscat.

(Source: Air India Express)

Royal Cliff Junior Tennis Thailand Championship

By
TTR WEEKLY
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PATTAYA, Thailand, 6 October 2025: The 4th edition of the Royal Cliff Junior Tennis Thailand Championship returns for the second time this year, in response to popular demand. The event will take place on 8 to 9 November 2025, at Pattaya’s Fitz Club – Racquet, Health, and Fitness. 

The event organiser, Royal Cliff, invites young tennis enthusiasts aged 4 to 14 years, of every skill level, to join this exciting tournament. It’s the perfect chance to meet fellow players, improve your game, and gain valuable competitive experience. Participants will also have the opportunity to earn points towards their national ranking in Thailand.

Ahead of the tournament, at 1800 on 7 November 2025, a Tennis Clinic and Challenge will be led by certified tennis and fitness coaches, allowing participants to warm up with exercises and participate in a mini competition. 

The evening will feature a special lucky draw, where 10 children will be selected to challenge Royal Cliff’s CEO, Vitanart Vathanakul. Anyone who can beat the CEO with a score of 10–0 will win a cash prize of THB 10,000. Booking is required. 

For more information about the Tennis Clinic, visit: https://form.jotform.com/231011243791041. 

The championship is more than just a tennis competition; it’s a family-friendly event filled with activities for both adults and children. Highlights include:

Fun activity & games booths from Funtasea – Kids Club

Recovery & sports massage for players by Vitala

Relaxing massage by professional therapists from Cliff Spa

A special welcome pack sponsored by Supersports and K-Swiss

Refreshing beverages from Carabao and high-quality competition tennis balls from Tecnifibre

Live food stations, buffet dinner, and live music

Registration is now open until 24 October 2025. Register at: https://www.royalcliff.com/rcjt/. Special room rates are available for tournament participants. For bookings, contact 038250421 ext. 2820–24, email [email protected] or 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, utilising its courts designed to replicate the conditions of the Australian Open. 

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

(Source: Your Stories — Royal Cliff Group)

Star Princess sails maiden voyage

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Newsdesk
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SINGAPORE, 6 October 2025: Princess Cruises celebrates the maiden voyage of its newest Sphere-Class ship, Star Princess, which has departed Barcelona on an 11-day Inaugural Western Mediterranean journey. 

Star Princess now sails as the 17th ship in the Princess fleet.

Photo credit: Princess Cruises. Star Princess Piazza, O’Malley’s Irish Pub, Original Theatrical Show: Meridian.

The 177,800-ton, 4,300-guest Star Princess features 30 dining and bar venues, elevated entertainment and activity offerings, and luxurious accommodations. 

Here is a closer look at the ship’s inaugural season, the highly anticipated naming ceremony, exciting entertainment offerings, and services:

Maiden Season 

The 11-day Inaugural Western Mediterranean Voyage (October 4-15, 2025) sailed from Barcelona with visits to Marseille, Rome (Civitavecchia), Naples, Sicily, Cartagena (Spain), and Gibraltar, before returning to Barcelona.

After a seven-day Mediterranean voyage, Star Princess sails a transatlantic voyage before debuting in Fort Lauderdale for her Caribbean season and official naming ceremony on 6 November 2025.

After a winter 2025 through spring 2026 season of Caribbean cruises, visiting the best destinations the region has to offer, Star Princess sails through the Panama Canal to Seattle for a debut season of seven-day Alaska Inside Passage cruises in the summer of 2026. 

(Source: Princess Cruises)

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