AI shoutout for Singapore’s luxury and thrills

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May 27, 2026

SINGAPORE, 27 May 2026: Singapore performs strongly in luxury travel and thrill-seeking prompts, but remains less prominent in broader holiday and honeymoon-related queries, according to a new study examining how Singapore performs across AI-generated travel search results, released this week by public relations consultancy firm Grayling.

The study was conducted as part of the launch of GEO Radar, Grayling’s new AI search insights platform designed to help organisations understand how brands and organisations surface across AI-powered search environments.

Conducted in April 2026, the analysis examined over 1,600 AI-generated responses across six AI models (1), spanning inbound travel queries from Australia, the UK and the US, as well as outbound travel prompts from Singapore.

The findings come amid growing adoption of AI tools for travel planning. According to recent industry research, more than one-third of US travellers already use AI tools to plan or experience

trips, while 37% say they trust AI-generated recommendations enough to act on them.

“Travel is one of the sectors being reshaped most quickly by AI search,” said Grayling Singapore Managing Director Danny Tan. “Consumers are no longer simply typing a few keywords into Google and browsing links. They are asking AI models for recommendations, itineraries and comparisons, and increasingly trusting the answers they receive.

“This makes it critical for brands and destinations to understand how they are being surfaced, why they are being recommended, and which sources are shaping those responses.”

While Singapore surfaced strongly in AI-generated responses linked to stopovers, iconic skylines, and shopping, it appeared less prominently in honeymoon-related queries, where destinations such as Bali, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives dominated recommendations.

Visibility also varied across AI models, with Gemini Flash and ChatGPT 5.3 surfacing Singapore most consistently, while ChatGPT and Perplexity Sonar Pro recommended it less frequently.

By market, Singapore surfaced more often in responses linked to Australian travellers than those tied to the UK and the US.

Study highlights

Top airlines inbound queries

National carriers dominated inbound AI-generated airline recommendations, with Singapore Airlines surfacing most frequently across the models analysed

Top online travel agencies inbound queries

AI – generated booking recommendations were led by major online travel platforms with strong regional presence

For outbound travel queries from Singapore, the analysis showed which airline and booking platform brands were most frequently surfaced in AI-generated responses.

Top airlines outbound queries

Singapore-based carriers dominated outbound AI-generated travel recommendations, with Scoot and Singapore Airlines surfacing most frequently across the models analysed.

Top OTA outbound queries

Trip.com had the strongest presence among OTAs in outbound AI- generated travel responses, appearing in 71% of responses analysed

The report also found that AI consistently described Singapore using descriptors such as food, greenery, modern architecture, shopping, and safety. In contrast, descriptors such as ‘expensive’, ‘clean’ and well-organised’ appeared less frequently. When Singapore was recommended, AI-generated responses often paired it with destinations such as Bangkok, Bali, Tokyo and Los Angeles, rather than presenting it as a standalone destination. Singapore appeared more frequently as the first or middle stop on longer travel routes.

From June, Grayling will roll out GEO Radar across its network of offices and affiliates in Asia-Pacific.

About Grayling
Grayling is an award-winning global public relations consultancy with 30 offices worldwide.

(1) ChatGPT 4.0, ChatGPT 5.3, Gemini Flash, Gemini Pro, Perplexity Sonar, and Perplexity Sonar Pro.

(Source: Grayling)

PATA 75 honours long-standing members

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May 27, 2026

BANGKOK, 27 May 262026: The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) honoured its long-standing member organisations celebrating over 50, 60, and 70 years of membership during its recent PATA Executive Board & Board Member and PATA Awards ceremony, part of the PATA Annual Summit 2026 held in Pohang, South Korea.

PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid said, “As we celebrate the 75th Anniversary of Pacific Asia Travel Association, we are honoured to recognise our long-standing members whose continued support, trust, and collective voice have been instrumental in the growth, strength, and relevance of the Association. Their commitment continues to shape a more responsible and sustainable future for tourism across the Asia Pacific region.”

Organisations: 70 Years of Membership

Guam Visitors Bureau (since 1951), represented by Régine Lee, President & CEO.

Hawaii Tourism Authority (since 1951), represented by Jadie Goo, Acting Chief Brand Officer and Jennifer Chun, Director of Tourism Research.

Kinki Nippon Tourist Co Ltd (since 1956), represented by Hiroshi Tanimura, Executive Director of the International Affairs Department, JATA, and Secretary General, PATA Japan Chapter, on behalf of Katsuo Aso, Senior Manager, Global Business Department, Kinki Nippon Tourist Co., Ltd.

Philippine Department of Tourism (since 1951), represented by Dr Erwin Balane, Tourism Attaché.

Other organisations with over 70 years of membership that were unable to attend included Destination NSW, Marianas Visitors Authority, Tahiti Tourisme, and Tourism Fiji.

Photo (L/R): Noor Ahmad Hamid, CEO, PATA; Dr. Erwin Balane, Tourism Attaché, Philippines Department of Tourism – Korea Office; Hiroshi Tanimura, Executive Director of International Affairs Department at JATA, Secretary General of PATA Japan Chapter, representing Katsuo Aso, Senior Manager – Global Business Department, Kinki Nippon Tourist Co., Ltd.; Jennifer Chun, Director of Tourism Research, Hawaii Tourism Authority; Jadie Goo, Acting Chief Brand Officer, Hawaii Tourism Authority; Régine Lee, President & CEO, Guam Visitors Bureau; and Peter Semone, former Chair, PATA.

Organisations: 60 Years of Membership

Global Tour Ltd (since 1962), represented by Henry Oh, Chairman.

Hong Kong Tourism Board (since 1957), represented by Yoon-Ho Kim, Director – Korea.

Japan Association of Travel Agents (since 1963), represented by Hiroshi Tanimura, Executive Director of the International Affairs Department at JATA, Secretary General of PATA Japan Chapter.

Korea Tourism Organisation (since 1963), represented by Kyungsoo Yang, Executive Vice President.

Macao Government Tourism Office (since 1958), represented by Maria Helena de Senna Fernandes, Director.

Nepal Tourism Board (since 1965), represented by Rohini Prasad Khanal, Officiating Director.

Smith’s Motor Boat Service Inc (since 1965), represented by Jennifer Chun, Director of Tourism Research, Hawaii Tourism Authority, on behalf of Kamika Smith, General Manager, Smith’s Motor Boat Service, Inc.

Taiwan Tourism Administration (since 1958), represented by Yi-Chen Huang, Chief Secretary.

Thai Airways International Public Company Limited (since 1957), represented by Natapol Vanichkul, Head of Sales, Northern.

Tourism Authority of Thailand (since 1959), represented by Watcharaphan Bunnag, Chief of International Relations.

Tourism Malaysia (since 1959), represented by Kamilia Hani Abdul Halim, Director, Tourism Malaysia Seoul

World Express Group (since 1961), represented by Tunku Iskandar, Partner, on behalf of Tan Chee Chye, Chairman.

Yeti Travels Pvt Ltd (since 1966), represented by Suja Shakya, Senior Manager – Sales & Marketing.

Other organisations with over 60 years of membership that were unable to attend included DTH Destination (Thailand) Limited, Hecny Transportation Ltd, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, Okinawa Tourist Service Inc, Orient Express Private Ltd, Soaltee Hotel Limited, and Tobu Top Tours Co Ltd.

Organisations: 50 Years of Membership

All Nippon Airways Co Ltd (since 1973), represented by Yasuyuki Suzuki, Senior Director, Tourism and Regional Revitalisation,

Dusit Thani Public Company Limited (since 1967), represented by Yeonhee Cho, Director of Sales — GSO Korea, and Simon Lloyd, Dean, Hospitality Management and Business Administration, Dusit Thani College.

PACTO DMC INDONESIA (since 1972), represented by Raty Ning, President Director.

Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (since 1967), represented by Lesley Timothy, Executive Officer.

Tourism Solomons (since 1970), represented by Dagnal Dereveke, Acting Chief Executive Officer.

Other organisations with over 50 years of membership that were unable to attend included India Tourism Development Corporation Ltd. (ITDC), Messe Berlin / ITB Berlin, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Government of Pakistan, and PanTravel.

Photo (L/R): Noor Ahmad Hamid, CEO, PATA; Dagnal Dereveke, Acting Chief Executive Officer, Tourism Solomons; Raty Ning, President Director, PACTO DMC INDONESIA; Lesley Timothy, Executive Officer, Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority; Simon Lloyd, Dean, Hospitality Management and Business Administration, Dusit Thani College; Yeonhee Cho, Director of Sales – GSO Korea, Dusit Thani Public Company Limited; Yasuyuki Suzuki, Senior Director, Tourism and Regional Revitalization, All Nippon Airways Co Ltd; and Peter Semone, former Chair, PATA.

(Source: PATA)

TG boosts benefits for ROP members

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May 27, 2026

BANGKOK, 27 May 2026: Thai Airways International Public Company Limited celebrates the 33^rd anniversary of its Royal Orchid Plus (ROP) frequent flyer programme through the launch of new privileges, special activities, and exclusive experiences throughout 2026.

“On the occasion of Thai Airways’ 66^th anniversary, the 33^rd anniversary of Royal Orchid Plus, and the 55^th anniversary of Royal Orchid Holidays, we have prepared special activities and privileges to thank Royal Orchid Plus members for their continued trust and support of Thai Airways,” said Thai Airways International Chief Executive Officer Chai Eamsiri. “We are committed to developing Royal Orchid Plus to serve better changing travel and lifestyle needs. The Rise to GOLD campaign and the various activities taking place this year reflect our commitment to delivering enhanced experiences and greater value to all members.”

*Photo credit: THAI. Thai Airways International Chief Executive Officer Chai Eamsiri.*

Highlights include the “Rise to GOLD” campaign, which provides Royal Orchid Plus Silver status members with greater opportunities to attain Gold Member status, allowing them to enjoy premium travel privileges, including lounge access, additional baggage allowance, and benefits across the Star Alliance network.

In addition, Thai Airways introduced a wide range of benefits and special activities for Royal Orchid Plus members throughout the year. These include a co-promotion with Mastercard offering additional Bonus Miles to participating members, privileges from financial partners, activities at the “Rak Khun Tao Fah” event, and a fuel surcharge discount of up to 30% when redeeming Economy Class award tickets on Thai Airways international routes.

Royal Orchid Plus is also expanding the member experience beyond a traditional frequent flyer programme into an ecosystem that connects travel, lifestyle, and meaningful experiences. This will be achieved through special activities and collaborations, such as the GDH Concert, where members can earn Bonus Miles and enjoy exclusive privileges, as well as additional activities celebrating the 33rd anniversary of Royal Orchid Plus to be held later this year.

Furthermore, Thai Airways is enhancing travel-related privileges through Royal Orchid Holidays (ROH), allowing members to redeem their accumulated miles for a wider range of travel packages and services.

(Source: THAI)

Philippines: A rising Muslim-friendly star

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May 27, 2026

MANILA, Philippines, 27 May 2026: The Philippines continues to strengthen its position as a rising Muslim-friendly destination in Asia, welcoming travellers from the Middle East and the wider Muslim world through a growing ecosystem of halal- and Muslim-friendly tourism experiences.

This momentum is further complemented by the country’s strong tourism and cultural ties with neighbouring Muslim-majority countries, such as Brunei, Indonesia, and Malaysia, within the Brunei Darussalam–Indonesia–Malaysia–Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA).

Recently recognised by Mastercard-CrescentRating as a rising Muslim-friendly destination and ranked 8th among non-OIC destinations in the 2025 Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI), the Philippines continues to gain international recognition for its efforts in advancing halal- and Muslim-friendly tourism.

Across the archipelago, travellers can now experience a growing range of accommodations, halal-certified dining establishments, cultural attractions, and tourism services designed to support the faith-based needs of Muslim travellers while offering authentic cultural and heritage experiences.

Beyond tourism infrastructure, the Philippines is also investing in workforce development, destination preparedness, and cultural awareness initiatives to strengthen the delivery of halal and Muslim-friendly tourism services nationwide.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) continues to support this growth by implementing its Muslim-Friendly Accommodation Establishment (MFAE) Recognition Program across hotels and tourism establishments, while also encouraging halal certification among restaurants, accommodations, and tourism service providers nationwide.

Growing Halal travel experiences

Muslim-friendly tourism infrastructure continues to expand across the Philippines, supported by the DOT’s nationwide halal tourism development initiatives. To date, the DOT has officially recognised 67 Muslim-Friendly Accommodation Establishments (MFAEs) across the country, reflecting the Philippines’ continuing commitment to strengthening its halal and Muslim-friendly tourism ecosystem. Leading this effort is Megaworld Hotels & Resorts, the first hotel chain in the Philippines to achieve 100% MFAE recognition across all of its properties, further reinforcing the country’s growing portfolio of Muslim-friendly accommodations.

Through various training and capacity-building initiatives conducted by the DOT, an estimated 3,000 tourism frontliners and stakeholders nationwide have received specialised training on the fundamentals of halal, understanding Muslim travellers and guests, and the importance of culturally sensitive and respectful service.

Boracay continues to strengthen its position as a Muslim-friendly island destination through initiatives such as Marhaba Boracay, which features an 800-sqm beach cove dedicated to Muslim families. Boracay, Cebu, Cagayan de Oro, Davao City, and Metro Manila continue to feature a growing number of halal-certified dining establishments, prayer facilities, and tourism services designed to support the needs and comfort of Muslim travellers.

Beyond accommodations and dining, the Philippines offers Muslim travellers opportunities to experience the country’s rich cultural diversity through heritage tours, island and nature experiences, vibrant local communities, and visits to Islamic heritage sites across Mindanao. From pristine beaches and tropical islands to dynamic urban centres and cultural destinations, the country continues to position itself as a welcoming destination where Muslim travellers can enjoy meaningful journeys grounded in hospitality, inclusivity, and cultural understanding.

Engagement with Muslim travel markets

The Department of Tourism continues to strengthen its engagement with key Muslim travel markets, including the Middle East and neighbouring Muslim-majority countries such as Brunei, Indonesia, and Malaysia. Through international promotions, tourism collaborations, targeted destination campaigns, and the Muslim-Friendly Travelogue of the Philippines, the country continues to highlight its expanding tourism offerings, accessibility, and commitment to inclusive travel experiences. The three-volume travelogue series showcases the Philippines through curated features on halal and local cuisine, diverse tourism destinations, and the country’s growing Muslim-friendly tourism initiatives and experiences.

Direct connectivity from key international gateways to destinations such as Manila, Cebu, and Clark allows access to the country’s tourism destinations. In contrast, domestic connectivity supports multi-destination travel across the archipelago.

(Source: Philippines Department of Tourism)

Lind Hotels reshape lifestyle travel in the Philippines

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May 26, 2026

BORACAY, Philippines, 26 May 2026: Independent Filipino hospitality brands are beginning to reshape lifestyle travel in the Philippines — and The Lind Hotels is helping lead the shift.

Long overshadowed by larger regional markets dominated by international operators, the Philippines is increasingly gaining recognition for a new generation of homegrown hospitality brands focused on design, wellness, personalised service, and experience-led stays.

Among the companies helping to drive momentum is The Lind Hotels, an independently developed Filipino hospitality group that has steadily built a reputation through lifestyle-led destinations, strong culinary programming, wellness, and a distinctly Filipino approach to hospitality.

“Our philosophy is that Philippine hospitality can resonate globally while remaining proudly Filipino,” said Lind Hotels COO Pierre Henrichs. “Authenticity, warmth, creativity, and emotional connection are what travellers increasingly remember most.”

At the centre of the group’s success is The Lind Boracay, located on White Beach Station 1, widely regarded as Boracay’s most exclusive stretch of shoreline. The property is distinguished not only by its rare direct beachfront access, but also by an evolving guest experience that places intuitive hospitality and meaningful guest connection at the heart of the stay.

A defining milestone came in 2025 when the MICHELIN Guide made its Philippine debut. In a landmark moment for both the company and the wider industry, The Lind Boracay became the first and only hotel in Boracay to be featured by the guide, positioning the independent Filipino brand alongside internationally recognised hospitality names.

A key part of the resort’s evolution is its long-standing collaboration with The Spa Wellness, one of the Philippines’ pioneering wellness operators and the country’s first spa brand to receive Superbrand status. An accredited member of the International Spa Association (ISPA), The Spa Wellness brings an established wellness philosophy to the resort environment, helping to shape a more holistic guest experience centred on restoration, balance, and meaningful care.

Over the past decade, the group has continued refining every aspect of the guest journey, from food and beverage and wellness to lifestyle programming and personalised service.

The company’s recent evolution forms part of a broader reassessment undertaken during its 10th anniversary year, when The Lind Hotels also introduced a refreshed brand identity centred around human connection, meaningful hospitality, and more experience-driven travel.

The rebrand marked a return to the company’s core philosophy: fostering stronger people-to-people relationships across teams, travel partners, suppliers, and guests, while placing greater emphasis on the guest journey from the very first stage of trip planning through to the stay itself.

“As part of our 10-year milestone, we went back to the drawing board and asked ourselves where we were ten years ago and where we are today,” Henrichs said. “The entire brand has been refreshed. More than anything, we wanted to return to the human side of hospitality and focus on genuine connection at every touchpoint of the guest experience.”

Looking ahead, the company’s future developments in Coron and Siargao reflect both confidence in Philippine tourism and growing international demand for more meaningful, nature-driven, and experience-led travel.

At a time when travellers are increasingly prioritising authenticity over standardisation, brands like The Lind Hotels are helping demonstrate that world-class hospitality experiences can be created in the Philippines while remaining closely connected to local culture, people, and place.

“We believe the Philippines has the potential to become one of the world’s great hospitality destinations,” Henrichs said. “There is incredible warmth here, extraordinary natural beauty, and a growing confidence among Filipino brands to create experiences that feel globally relevant while remaining distinctly local.”

(Source: Lind Hotels)

JLL monitors surge in luxury hotel acquisitions

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May 26, 2026

SINGAPORE, 26 May 2026: Demand for luxury hotels in the Asia Pacific has grown dramatically, with investors increasingly viewing the asset class as both resilient and enduringly appealing to travellers regionally and globally.

According to JLL, the volume of luxury hotel transactions in the Asia-Pacific region rose significantly by 77% between 2017 and 2025, reaching approximately USD 2.1 billion in 2025.

*Photo credit: JLL. JLL Hotels & Hospitality Group Head of Advisory and Asset Management, Asia Pacific, Xander Nijnens.*

Significantly, 2025 volumes represent one of the highest annual investment deployments into luxury hotels since pre-COVID times, where transactions reached over USD2.4 billion in 2019.

Following the pandemic, luxury hotel transactions rebounded strongly, particularly in 2023, returning to levels comparable with 2019. In 2025, luxury hotel transactions accounted for almost 20% of all hotel deals, more than double the 8% share recorded in 2017 and surpassing even the 16% achieved during the pre-pandemic high, reinforcing investor confidence in the long-term value and performance characteristics of luxury hospitality assets.

“The luxury hotel segment in Asia Pacific is experiencing a defining moment measured by both its remarkable resilience throughout the pandemic cycle and beyond, and increasingly via a convergence of wealth accumulation and evolving consumer. As a result, we’re seeing sustained appetite from an increasingly diverse investor base, including private wealth and cross-border capital, all seeking exposure to assets that combine prestige, capital preservation, and long-term growth fundamentals,” says JLL Hotels & Hospitality Group Head of Advisory and Asset Management, Asia Pacific, Xander Nijnens.

A fundamental shift is underway in how luxury hotels capture market share. While these properties have always commanded premium rates, the occupancy gap between luxury and mainstream hotels is now narrowing, signalling that luxury hotels are year-round performers with strong, sustainable demand.

This performance evolution is attracting both capital and development activity. Luxury hotel supply has grown at a steady 4% annually over the past decade, maintaining approximately 8% of the total market, with moderate growth expected through 2030. This disciplined expansion has avoided the oversupply traps that historically challenged the sector, creating favourable supply-demand dynamics for investors.

Global and regional operators are launching differentiated concepts to capture specific guest preferences, from wellness-focused retreats to culturally immersive experiences. In particular, the ultra-luxury segment has become increasingly fragmented and brand-driven. For investors, this brand proliferation offers opportunities to position assets within distinct market niches and capture premiums through strategic partnerships.

“The luxury hospitality landscape has fundamentally evolved. We’re seeing properties adapt to changing guest preferences while maintaining the premium positioning that makes them attractive investment assets. The combination of strong rate power, strategic repositioning, and heightened demand from affluent travellers positions the segment favourably for continued growth. We also see moderating supply growth in the coming years, providing owners with more pricing power,” says Marina Bracciani, Vice President, Hotels Research Lead, Asia Pacific.

Despite significantly higher operating costs — almost double those of the overall hotel market in the region — due to elevated staff ratios, premium F&B offerings, and personalised services, luxury hotels achieve gross operating profit margins comparable to the overall market. The ability to command substantial rate premiums while maintaining competitive margins demonstrates the segment’s pricing power and operational sophistication.

However, performance varies considerably across markets, with luxury hotels in Tokyo, Hong Kong, and Seoul emerging as clear winners. The ultra-luxury segment has demonstrated even more pronounced outperformance than the broader luxury category.

(Source: JLL)

Voco brand signs Phuket hotel

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May 26, 2026

BANGKOK, 26 May 2026: IHG Hotels & Resorts (IHG) has announced a management agreement with Phuket HA 2 Co Ltd for voco Phuket Patong, marking the rapid expansion of the brand in Thailand following the voco brand debut in Bangkok last year, with four more properties in the pipeline signed in quick succession.

Opening in 2028, the newly built 307-room voco Phuket Patong will be situated within the mixed-use development Abov Patong, a landmark comprising hotels, branded residences, and comprehensive facilities, including a clubhouse, a theatre, multi-zone swimming pools, and a Kids Club, on the hillside of Patong in Phuket.

From left to right: Nada Anerutteva, Strategic Marketing & Communication Consultant, ABOV Patong, Wuthikrai Kulsirisawad, Chief Executive Officer, ABOV Patong, Pathana Jitsaereetham, Director, Development, Thailand, IHG, Kate Gerits, Director of Operations, Thailand, IHG

Voco Phuket Patong joins IHG’s fastest-growing premium brand and a global portfolio of 137 voco hotels open and operating, including voco Bangkok Surawong, voco Bandung Setiabudi, voco Scenia Bay Nha Trang, with an additional 113 hotels in the development pipeline*, promising travellers a dependable yet approachable premium stay experience.

IHG Director Development Thailand, Pathana Jitsaereetham, said: “Voco Phuket Patong will strengthen IHG’s diverse portfolio in Phuket, which features seven hotels across five brands — InterContinental, Vignette Collection, Hotel Indigo, Holiday Inn, and Holiday Inn Express. With voco Phuket Patong, we’re excited to offer our guests even more choice and exceptional experiences, ensuring there’s a stay for everyone.”

Voco Phuket Patong is located just 150 metres from Patong Beach and close to entertainment areas, shopping malls, and dining options. Hotel facilities include a restaurant, two bars, a spa, a swimming pool, and a fitness centre.

The signing strengthens IHG’s scale in Thailand, where the company now has more than 80 open and signed hotels nationwide, and further builds on voco hotels’ momentum with four additional properties set to open in Bangkok and Phuket.

(Source: IHG)

Travel Meet Asia convenes in Jakarta

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May 26, 2026

SINGAPORE, 26 May 2026: Indonesia’s leading travel trade show returns to Jakarta from 23 to 24 June, bringing together 1,500 industry professionals and spotlighting Brunei as the Official Partner Country alongside the launch of Visit Brunei 2027.

Travel Meet Asia 2026 will return to Jakarta on 23 to 24 June, bringing together key industry leaders and international exhibitors from the MICE, Corporate and Leisure sectors.

*Photo credit: Messe Berlin Asia Pacific. Travel Meet Asia.*

The event will take place at Swissôtel Jakarta PIK Avenue, reinforcing Jakarta’s position as a strategic hub for travel and tourism exchange.

Organised by Messe Berlin Asia Pacific, Travel Meet Asia continues to grow as a leading marketplace and knowledge platform, with more than 1,500 participants, over 400 quality buyers, 100+ exhibitors and 60+ speakers expected to attend in 2026.

Messe Berlin Asia Pacific Executive Director Darren Seah said: “Travel Meet Asia has established itself as a vital platform for meaningful business exchange and industry dialogue in Southeast Asia. With Jakarta as our host city once again, we look forward to welcoming a growing community of travel professionals and to spotlighting Brunei as our Official Partner Country. The launch of Visit Brunei 2027 adds a strong dimension to this year’s event, highlighting the region’s dynamic and evolving tourism landscape.”

Visit Brunei 2027 launch

Brunei Darussalam, the Abode of Peace, will take centre stage as the Official Partner Country of Travel Meet Asia 2026. This milestone reflects the nation’s commitment to strengthening its global tourism presence through authentic cultural offerings and pristine nature-based attractions. Visitors are invited to discover a serene destination where unspoiled rainforests, rich biodiversity, and enduring traditions come together to create truly memorable journeys.

“We are honoured to be named the Official Partner Country for Travel Meet Asia 2026, a vital platform for regional tourism connectivity. This partnership offers a strategic opportunity for Brunei Darussalam to showcase our unique blend of rich cultural heritage, pristine rainforests, and warm hospitality as we build momentum toward Visit Brunei Year 2027.

“Through the Brunei Pavilion, we invite visitors to discover our diverse offerings, upcoming initiatives and curated experiences. We warmly welcome industry partners to experience first-hand what makes Brunei a peaceful, authentic, and distinctive destination in Southeast Asia,” said Acting Director of Tourism Development Department, Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism, Hajah Nur Fariza Munyati binti Haji Abd Aji.

Travel Meet Asia 2026 builds on its strategic collaboration with ASITA (Association of the Indonesian Tours and Travel Agencies), following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding to strengthen Indonesia’s tourism and MICE sector. The partnership supports Indonesia’s role as a key regional hub for tourism and business exchange.

The 2026 edition will feature a 20% increase in exhibition space compared to the previous year, reflecting strong industry demand and growing market confidence. Confirmed exhibitors include leading hospitality brands, destination representatives and travel service providers such as Accor, Adaaran Maldives, Churchill Safaris, Finland Pavilion, New World Saigon and Tokyu Hotels.

The event offers networking opportunities to engage with key buyers from Southeast Asia and international markets. Participating buyers include Azza Travel & Tours Pte Ltd, Bandar Tour, Chacha L Tours & Travel, Mavp Travel & Tours, MG Bedbank, Myduta Tour, Smile Holiday, Webbeds, Wolo Travel, and Xiaomi.

Buyers from key markets, including Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam, are expected to participate.

Running alongside the show, the conference programme will provide in-depth insights into key Southeast Asian travel markets, with sessions curated across six broad themes: Market Insights and Trends, Travel and Destination Marketing, Hospitality and Alternative Accommodations, MICE and Corporate Travel, Travel Technology, and Transportation and Mobility.

(Source: Messe Berlin Asia Pacific)

Malaysians check out lesser-known places

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May 26, 2026

SINGAPORE, 26 May 2026: Digital travel platform Agoda has revealed that value is emerging as an important factor in how Malaysians travel in 2026, influencing everything from accommodation choices to destination planning.

According to Agoda’s 2026 Travel Outlook Report, 63% of travellers are willing to consider lesser-known destinations if it means lower costs, signalling a shift toward more intentional and cost-conscious travel behaviour.

Agoda’s findings also highlight how this value-driven mindset is reflected in both spending habits and destination choices. Malaysian travellers are showing a clear preference for travel that delivers value without sacrificing the overall experience.

Nearly two-thirds (64%) expect to spend USD50 or less per night on accommodation in 2026, while 59% say price is the single most important factor when choosing where to stay. This reinforces that value not only influences openness to discovering alternative destinations but also shapes spending decisions.

Beyond spending considerations, Agoda’s findings also point to a shift in how Malaysians are planning their trips and what they prioritise when they travel.

Local and frequent travel remain part of the picture

Malaysian travellers are also adjusting how often and how far they travel, as value-driven decisions make shorter, more frequent, and closer-to-home trips more appealing. 47% expect most of their trips in 2026 to be domestic, while 37% plan to take four to six trips over the year. The most common trip length is four to seven days (42%), reflecting a shift toward travel that is more manageable, cost-conscious, and easier to fit into everyday life.

Even with affordability a priority, Malaysians are still considering experiences they value most. Relaxation is the top reason Malaysians expect to travel in 2026, cited by 69% of respondents. Culinary experiences follow at 33%, highlighting the continued role food plays in destination appeal. Travel also remains deeply social, with 59% planning to travel with family and 28% expecting to travel with their spouse or partner.

Agoda Country Director Malaysia and Brunei Fabian Teja said: “Malaysian travellers are planning more carefully and placing greater emphasis on value. Agoda’s latest findings show that cost matters, but so does making each trip count. Travellers are looking for options that help them manage their budgets while still enjoying the experiences that matter most, whether that is rest, time with loved ones, or discovering good food. Agoda brings these elements together by making it easier to book flights, accommodation and activities in one place with great value deals.”

(Source: Agoda)

Explora Journeys unveils Summer 2028 Collection

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May 26, 2026

SINGAPORE, 26 May 2026: Explora Journeys has opened sales for its Summer 2028 Journeys Collection, a milestone season defined by the arrival of Explora VI.

Her debut in August 2028 brings the fleet to its full six-ship scale, realising the brand’s original vision on time and exactly as planned at its inception. Spanning 178 destinations across 27 countries, the new collection represents a significant expansion of the brand’s global presence, with all six ships sailing the world’s oceans together for the first time.

The new collection captures the Mediterranean’s allure alongside the landscapes of Northern Europe, Iceland and Greenland. From the Alaskan wilderness to the historic waterways of the North American East Coast during the height of the autumnal shift, every itinerary is shaped by the philosophy of unhurried discovery.

Overnights in cities like New York, Reykjavik and Istanbul are balanced with visits to remote island retreats such as Korčula and the Faroe Islands. In many ports, late departures allow guests to experience the evolving energy from day to night, offering a more soulful connection to each destination.

Summer 2028 Overview

Explora I: From April through October, the ship visits six countries and 25 destinations in the Mediterranean, meandering through the island constellations of the Aegean to the sculpted shores of the Adriatic. Guests can uncover the Cyclades, the Dodecanese and the Turkish Coast, experiencing the nightlife of Mykonos with a late departure and the cultural vibrancy of Istanbul with an overnight stay.

Explora II: Exploring the Western Mediterranean, North Africa and the French and Italian Rivieras, the ship visits 36 destinations across Iberia and the Atlantic edge from April through October. Itineraries weave from the vibrant Balearic Islands to the lush landscapes of Madeira, featuring an overnight stay in Lisbon and late departures from eight ports, including Ibiza, Capri and Casablanca.

Explora III: Returning to the wilderness of Alaska from May through September, the ship navigates 20 destinations across the US and Canada. Itineraries feature scenic sailings through the Inside Passage and the Gulf of Alaska, providing an unparalleled vantage point of Hubbard Glacier, alongside calls at Juneau, Skagway, and smaller communities such as Wrangell and Klawock.

Explora IV: From May through October, the ship traverses Northern Europe and the Baltic Sea, uncovering 51 destinations across 15 countries. Guests can cycle along the historic canals of Amsterdam or stroll the royal parks of Stockholm during overnight stays, while 11 maiden calls, including Runavík in the Faroe Islands and Djúpivogur in Iceland, reveal the region’s more remote shores.

Explora V: Between May and September, the ship explores the Baltic Sea, the Norwegian fjords and the North Atlantic before reaching the volcanic coastlines of Iceland and Greenland. The season then transitions to the North American Eastern Seaboard with overnights in New York City and Quebec City and late departures from Halifax and Boston.

Explora VI: From August to November 2028, the newest ship in the fleet sails the Mediterranean, completing 13 sailings. Starting with her maiden journey from Rome to Barcelona, itineraries weave through Sicily, Sardinia and the French Riviera. As the season mellows into October and November, the ship ventures into the Adriatic to explore the historic ports of Trogir and Dubrovnik, as well as the UNESCO-protected Bay of Kotor.

(Source: Explora Journeys)

AI shoutout for Singapore’s luxury and thrills

PATA 75 honours long-standing members

TG boosts benefits for ROP members

Philippines: A rising Muslim-friendly star

Lind Hotels reshape lifestyle travel in the Philippines

JLL monitors surge in luxury hotel acquisitions

Voco brand signs Phuket hotel

Travel Meet Asia convenes in Jakarta

Malaysians check out lesser-known places

Explora Journeys unveils Summer 2028 Collection

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latest travel news
on Southeast Asia.